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WWE: A Strong Response

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#1 · (Edited)
WWE: A STRONG RESPONSE
The Backstory​

Following No Mercy last night and after a difficult year with ratings and pay-per-view buys taking a downward turn, the steroids and Chris Benoit scandal, the WWE have been forced to take the company in a different direction, starting immediately.

Stephanie McMahon has been joined by Shane McMahon and Nigel Smith to head up the creative team that will see Smith take charge of writing both Raw and Smackdown. Vince McMahon has decided that wrestling and competition must become the main focus of the shows ahead of over the top storylines that have left viewers frustrated and fed up with WWE programming. It must be noted that the McMahon’s may still make appearances on television as Vince in particular sees himself as a top ratings puller.

If things couldn’t have been going much worse for the company, their top star John Cena was injured last week and will be out injured for around 7 to 12 months. With Cena pulling in a lot of ratings and being by far the top seller in regards to merchandise, it is expected that he may have some kind of role in the television shows, but that is only being discussed at the moment.

With regards to the low PPV buys, the WWE have decided that only five pay-per-views will remain in place for the next calendar year at bigger arena’s with the Royal Rumble, Wrestlemania, King of the Ring making its return, Summerslam and Survivor Series being the five to add importance to the shows that were lacking in meaning and were rushed like the shows that have been in place this year. With this in mind, Saturday Nights Main Event will return in March and August, but we will also see the show at the end of December too, which will start at the end of this year. By doing this, the WWE are trying to make the TV shows seem more important and to add some more credibility to them and the company in the process.

Another one of several major decisions has seen ECW scrapped immediately due to its poor ratings and feedback from agents. This was seen to be coming for a long time and with its small roster, they have been split between both Raw and Smackdown rosters, which have also seen some changes between them, but none of any major note this far.

However, several workers have been removed from the rosters on WWE.com with Ric Flair and King Booker along with his wife Queen Sharmell apparently leaving the company after lots of speculation around their current situations. This is not seen as a big surprise as Flair and Booker had made themselves very unpopular with management in the build up to their disappearance from television tapings. It must be noted that it has NOT been confirmed by either parties that they have indeed left the company. The other main departure sees Vickie Guerrero leave her role as General Manager of Smackdown, but this is due mainly to family reasons with Vickie missing her children and vice versa. No replacement has been announced yet but Teddy Long will not be making a return to television in the near future. The Major Brothers have been removed from the roster but remain in Ohio Valley Wrestling since their disastrous debut on Smackdown after leaving ECW. Mike Knox has also been released from his WWE contract while ECW General Manager Armando Alejandro Estrada’s profile is no longer on the WWE website, but he has not been released, this is the same situation that Tazz, Joey Styles, Kelly Kelly, Layla and Brooke find themselves in since ECW’s demise.

On the injury front, John Cena as we know is out for the considerable future, Edge is recovering well and is set to return in the next 4 to 6 weeks. Bobby Lashley is pushing for a return at the end of the year and Gregory Helms is the only other long term absentee with a severe neck injury that will see him out until around June next year. Shawn Michaels remains on the sidelines at home following knee surgery several months ago, but there is no word on whether he is ready to return just yet.

On the TNA front, Bound For Glory takes place in six days time boosted by the news that they have signed former WWE superstars Rob Conway and Rob Van Dam. Any WWE return for Van Dam has officially gone out of the window now. However, the Chris Jericho debate continues to go on with neither Jericho or the WWE confirming that he has indeed signed a contract following the cryptic messages that have been displayed on Raw over the last few weeks.





Head of Authority: Eric Bischoff
Announce Team: Jim Ross & Jerry 'The King' Lawler
Ring Announcer: Lilian Garcia
Backstage Interviewers: Todd Grisham & Leticia Cline

~The Hall of Champions~


***Defeated Edge to win the vacant title at Backlash (27/4/09)***
PREVIOUS CHAMPION: Shawn Michaels (4)


***Won a fatal four-way on Raw (22/9/08)***
PREVIOUS CHAMPION: Ted DiBiase (1)


***Defeated Rey Mysterio & Mystico (1) on Raw (19/1/09)***


***Defeated Beth Phoenix (4) & O.D.B. at Extreme Rules (26/4/09)***


Carlito
Cesaro
Chris Jericho
Christopher Daniels
Cody Rhodes
Eddie Colon
Edge
Eugene
Ezekiel Jackson
Finlay
Goldust
Gregory Helms
Hardcore Holly
Jack Swagger
Joe Hennig
John Cena
John Morrison
JTG
Justin Gabriel
Kaval
Kofi Kingston
Matt Hardy
Mystico
Orlando Jordan
Rey Mysterio
Rob Van Dam
Shad Gaspard
Shannon Moore
Sheamus
The Miz
Zack Ryder

Divas
Angel Love
Brie Bella
Gail Kim
Kelly Kelly
Melina
Mia Rain
Nikki Bella
Queen Kong
Talia Sky

Tag Teams/Stables
Cryme Time
Eugene & Goldust
J'n'J (John Morrison & Justin Gabriel)
Picture Perfect (Angel Love & Talia Sky)
Rey Mysterio & Mystico
Team Omega (Matt Hardy, Gregory Helms & Shannon Moore)
The Bella Twins (Brie & Nikki)
The Colon Brothers
The Epitome of Excellence (Christopher Daniels & Kaval)
The King's Men (Cody Rhodes & Joe Hennig)




General Manager(s): Mr. McMahon & Stephanie McMahon
Announce Team: Michael Cole & Matt Striker
Ring Announcer: Justin Roberts
Backstage Interviewers: Josh Matthews & Maria

~The Hall of Champions~


***Defeated CM Punk (1) at Wrestlemania (29/3/09)***


***Defeated Matt Sydal (1) at the Royal Rumble (18/1/09)***


***Defeated The Empire (Wade Barrett & Drew McIntyre) (1) on Smackdown (9/1/09)***


***Defeated Johnny Jeter (1) on Smackdown 14/11/08)***


***Defeated Beth Phoenix (4) & O.D.B. at Extreme Rules (26/4/09)***






Alberto Del Rio
Bobby Lashley
Brian Kendrick
Bryan Danielson
Charlie Haas
Chavo Guerrero
Chris Masters
Christian
CM Punk
Dolph Ziggler
Drew McIntyre
Elijah Burke
Harry Smith
Homicide
J-Red
Jamie Noble
Jay Lethal
Jimmy Yang
Johnny Devine
Johnny Jeter
Kid Kash
Matt Sydal
Michael Shane
Montel Vontavious Porter
Paul Burchill
Paul London
Petey Williams
Randy Orton
Ron Killings
Santino Marella
Shelton Benjamin
Sonjay Dutt
Super Crazy
Ted DiBiase
TJ Wilson
Wade Barrett
William Regal
Yoshi Tatsu

Divas
Beth Phoenix
Jillian Hall
Katie Lee – Valet & Member of The Empire
Layla
Maria – Also a Backstage Interviewer
'The Million Dollar Woman' Maryse – Valet & Girlfriend of Ted DiBiase
Michelle McCool
Mickie James
Natalya Neidhart – Valet & Girlfriend of TJ Wilson
O.D.B.
Stepahnie McMahon – Executive Vice-President

Tag Teams/Stables
CM Punk & Homicide
Jimmy Yang & Sonjay Dutt
M.V.P. & Ron Killings
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
Power & Perfection (Bobby Lashley & Charlie Haas)
The Empire (Drew McIntyre, Wade Barrett, William Regal & Katie Lee)
The Pitbulls (Jamie Noble & Kid Kash)
The UK Pack (Paul Burchill & Harry Smith)




FCW Heavyweight Champion
Ryback

FCW Tag Team Champions
The Rotundas

FCW Women's Champion
Nikki Roxx

FCW Television Champion
Damien Sandow


Alex Riley (Kevin Kiley)
'The Intellectual Saviour' Damien Sandow (Aaron Haddad)
Darren Young (Frederick Rosser)
'The Valedictorian' David Otunga
'The Maniacal Genius' Dean Ambrose (Jonathan Good)
Fandango (Jonathan Curtis)
'The Beast' G-Rilla (George Murdoch)
'The One Man Band' Heath Slater (Heath Miller)
The Mexican Assassin' Hunico (Jorge Arias)
Jay Uso (Joshua Fatu)
Jimmy Uso (Jonathan Fatu)
'The Human Wrecking Ball' Ryback (Ryan Reeves)
Taylor Rotunda
Tito Colon (Orlando Colon)
'The Ultimate Daredevil' Tyler Black (Colby Lopez)
Windham Rotunda
'The King of Charisma' Xavier Woods (Austin Watson)

Tag Teams/Stables
Alex Riley & Darren Young
Samoan Fury (Jimmy & Jay Uso)
The Harvard Alumni (David Otunga, Damien Sandow, Dean Ambrose & Alicia Fox)
The Rotundas (Taylor & Windham)

Female Performers
'The New Jersey Princess' AJ Lee (April Jeanette)
'The Complete Woman' Alicia Fox (Victoria Crawford)
'The Fearless Angel' Nikki Roxx (Nicole Raczynski)
'Queen Bitch' Rosa Mendes (Milena Roucka)
Serena Deeb
'The Girl Nextdoor' Shantelle Taylor (Shantelle Malawski)
Tamina Snuka (Sarona Reiher)

________


If anyone didn’t catch the No Mercy results from last night, here they are:

Triple H defeated Randy Orton to win the WWE Championship (11:15)

Mr. Kennedy and Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch defeated Jeff Hardy, Paul London and Brian Kendrick (8:06)

CM Punk defeated Big Daddy V (w/Matt Striker) by disqualification to retain the ECW Championship (1:37)

Triple H defeated Umaga to retain the WWE Championship (6:33)

Finlay fought Rey Mysterio to a no-contest (9:08)

Beth Phoenix defeated Candice Michelle to win the WWE Women's Championship (4:32)

Batista defeated The Great Khali (w/Ranjin Singh) in a Punjabi Prison match to retain the World Heavyweight Championship (14:47)

Randy Orton defeated Triple H in a Last Man Standing match to win the WWE Championship (20:25)


PAY-PER-VIEW SCHEDULE 2009

RAW & SMACKDOWN PRESENT:
King of the Ring (4 Hours)
Sunday 31st May
From The Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia

RAW PRESENTS:
Vengeance (3 Hours)
Sunday 14th June
From The Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

SMACKDOWN PRESENTS:
The Great American Bash (3 Hours)
Sunday 5th July
From The Scottrade Arena in St. Louis, Missouri

RAW & SMACKDOWN PRESENT:
SummerSlam (4 Hours)
Sunday 23rd August
From The Rogers Center in Toronto, Ontario (Canada)


OVERSEAS TELEVISION SCHEDULE 2009
(To be recorded due to time difference)

APRIL
Friday 3rd – Smackdown
(To be recorded on Tuesday 31st March)
The Sheffield Arena
Sheffield, England

Monday 6th – Raw
Adriatic Arena
Pesaro, Italy

Friday 10th – Smackdown
(To be recorded on Tuesday 7th April)
Olympiahalle
Munich, Germany


*Pay-Per-View History & Links*

Cyber Sunday 2007
2007 Survivor Series
2007 Year Ending Saturday Night's Main Event
2008 Royal Rumble
Pre-Wrestlemania Saturday Night's Main Event
Wrestlemania 24
Backlash 2008
Judgment Day 2008
2008 King of the Ring
Vengeance 2008
The Great American Bash 2008
Summerslam 2008
Unforgiven 2008
No Mercy 2008
2008 Survivor Series
Night of Champions 2008
2009 Royal Rumble (20th Annual)
No Way Out 2009
Wrestlemania 25 Pre-Show
Wrestlemania 25
Backlash 2009
Extreme Rules 2009


 
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#1,281 ·
Yep, long time I know. A few of you know why I've been away for so long, and I'm getting back to normal now. Anyways. . .


”WWE Superstars” Results
Saturday 5th July 2008
Resch Center, Green Bay, Wisconsin



Match #1
Tommy Dreamer vs. Chris Masters (w/Charlie Haas)

The frustrated Masterpiece took the match to Dreamer from the off, but his aggression nearly got the better of him when he allowed Dreamer some recovery time while the referee warned him for using an open fist in the corner. Dreamer fought back and fired him out of the corner before taking charge of the match. That all changed as Masters blocked a suplex attempt and hit one of his own. With momentum back on his side, Masters then showed off his strength by hitting a delayed vertical suplex and later wrapped up the victory with the Masterlock.

Winner: Chris Masters.


{Commercial Break}​

Edge was in the locker room with Petey Williams & Johnny Devine. He told them that he would be out there supporting them against Christian and the so called problem solver later on, and went on to call Tomko a weak link, not a problem solver. He told them to work on him and that he’d take care of his brother, and if everything went to plan, they’d embarrass the hell out of Christian and enjoy every last second of it.


Back in the arena, MVP made his way to the ring and told everyone that like he said on Smackdown the night before, he came to Superstars to call out the two guys who jumped him on Smackdown eight days ago. He said that he wasn’t going anywhere until they showed their faces, and The Empire (Drew McIntyre & Stu Sanders) with Katie Lee swiftly and confidently went to the ring. Katie Lee took the lead and said that if answers were what MVP wanted, then they were only too happy to oblige. She said that The Empire came to the WWE and the United States for a reason, the same reason that MVP became the first victim in their mission. MVP was both angry and confused, then asked what the hell she was talking about a mission for. She said that thanks to the culture and behaviour of a large number of Americans including MVP, the culture that she and The Empire grew up in back home has changed, all because of the American influence.

She blamed gang culture for ruining the lives of children and families in the UK, making it acceptable for young children to carry knives and even use them one another. She also said that the youth of today don’t even flinch when news breaks about other children being killed, all because it’s an every day occurrence and generally accepted in America. The crowd were booing loudly as Sanders & McIntyre stood behind her, nodding at the baffled MVP. She went on to say that the hideous rap music they see and hear, as well as the ‘musicians’ if she could call them that were directly influencing the moral behaviour of millions of children in the UK and that enough is enough. She said that they had to make a stand and kill this culture as soon as possible, and that MVP falls in to the bracket of a bad influence for children everywhere, but for some reason, he is seen as a role model despite his previous misdoings. MVP cut in and asked Katie if she was actually blaming him for the gang culture, and said that she was crazy if she was.

McIntyre stepped in front of her and took the microphone away from her. He told MVP that the threatening behaviour he was showing towards a woman is exactly the sort of act the Americans have deemed acceptable and passed on to every other nation. He then said that he & Sanders weren’t going to allow it to continue any longer, and if MVP had a problem with that, he was going to be in a world of trouble. MVP asked him if that was right and turned to the crowd with a big smile on his face, and as he turned back, he drilled McIntyre with a right hand that sent him to the mat. Sanders went right after MVP, but Porter stood his ground until they were then able to double team him with McIntyre laying him out courtesy of a reverse STO. Katie then told them to pull him up, and they did with Katie then slapping him across the face. The Empire then tossed him back down to the mat to a ton of heat before smiling at each other and leaving the ring to a barrage of boos from the angry crowd.


{Commercial Break}


*Video Promo*
>Raw Rebound<
>Batista’s introduction as the new WWE Champion by Ric Flair with Kane then coming out along with Paul Bearer, who announced that he would be using his rematch clause later on that night and that they would leave the WWE forever if Kane lost.
>Triple H apologising to Batista for being ungrateful towards him helping him out against The Corporation.
>Batista versus Kane and Randy Orton getting involved, hitting an RKO on Batista, leading to Evolution coming down to see him off before Batista went on to retain the title after a Batista Bomb.
>Triple H then getting Batista’s title and taking it in to the ring, but instead of handing it over to him, smashing him with it in the face, confusing the hell out of Flair, who then got a pedigree for his troubles.



*Video Recap*

>From Backlash and the World Tag Team Championship Turmoil match that saw The Colons eliminate John Morrison & The Miz, the then champions before going on to lose to the new champions, Cryme Time.

>From Raw Monday night and the tag title rematch between Cryme Time and John Morrison & The Miz, ending in Shad & JTG retaining the gold, angering The Miz who then yelled at and shoved Morrison, provoking an angry response from Morrison, who shoved him back and then punched him to the mat, much to the amusement of the new champions.


Match #2
John Morrison vs. Carlito (w/Eddie Colon & Eric Perez)

This was a really quick paced match that saw the crowd get in to it and support Morrison. The Shaman of Sexy was able to dodge a springboard elbow smash from Carlito and nail him straight after with a springboard enziguri, but could only manage a two count. As the match went on, the pace picked up further and as he looked to finish Carlito off, he knocked the panicked Eddie Colon off the apron with a super kick. Carlito then tried to take advantage by walking up behind Morrison for the Back Stabber, but Morrison spun to safety and took the match with the Moonlight Drive to a strong reception from the fans. He left the ring straight away as Perez tried to get at him. The ref joined JoMo on the outside to raise his arm, but The Miz ran down the aisle from behind him and knocked him to the floor. With the crowd booing, Miz then pulled his former partner up and tossed him in to the guard rail before stomping all over him until more officials came down and broke things up. He then backed away with a rare sadistic look on his face as the fans let rip at him.

Winner: John Morrison.


{Commercial Break}


*Video Promo*
>Smackdown Rewind<
>Christian, Edge & Chris Jericho all talking up their chances in the Scramble match come The Great American Bash, also stating how the odds are against CM Punk retaining, setting up Punk’s arrival and claims that he will retain the World Championship before The Undertaker arrived on the scene and chokeslammed him in the middle of the ring with everyone else leaving him to it.
>Tazz walking out to the stage directly afterwards and announcing that next week on Smackdown, the four contenders for the title will meet in a tag team match that will see Christian join forces with The Undertaker to take on Edge & Jericho in addition to Punk being the special guest referee.


Match #3
Christian & Tyson Tomko vs. Petey Williams & Johnny Devine (w/Edge)

Petey & Devine hung on in against their bigger opponents, and Petey looked impressive and incredibly athletic, catching Tomko at one point with a thunderous leg lariat. That led to both men making tags, and Christian took it right to Devine. He was on the verge of victory when Edge climbed up to the apron. Christian didn’t see him as he was focused on Devine struggling to his feet, but the crowd’s reaction led to him turning to see Edge standing there. He walked over and yelled at his brother, but Devine got back up and ran at him. Captain Charisma quickly turned round and stepped to the side as Devine ran right in to Edge, knocking Edge down to the floor. Devine then turned round and walked in to a Killswitch with Tomko then taking care of Petey’s attempts to save his partner, allowing Christian the chance to cover Devine and pick up the win. Christian took great pleasure in seeing Edge’s angry reaction as he sat up on the outside.

Winners: Christian & Tyson Tomko.


{End of Show}


Quick Results​
Chris Masters df. Tommy Dreamer
John Morrison df. Carlito
Christian & Tyson Tomko df. Petey Williams & Johnny Devine

Dark Match
Kaval df. Shannon Moore


_________________________________


RAW Preview – Monday 7th July 2008
Live From the Lawlor Events Center
Reno, Nevada




>The Games Have Just Begun!<
If Vengeance wasn’t chaotic enough, Raw continued in the same manner! We saw the new WWE Champion, Batista defeat Kane once again to this time retain the title and send The Big Red Machine out of the WWE for good. However, the thrills & spills didn’t end there. Earlier in the evening, Triple H apologised to both Batista & Ric Flair before then turning on them and turning his back on Evolution. The Game showed no remorse in introducing the WWE title belt to Batista’s face and answering Flair’s protests with a pedigree. It would be fair to say that there could be trouble in Reno when these three walk through the door to the Lawlor Events Center.

The McMahon’s returned to Raw with one hell of a bang last Monday night, and Vladimir Kozlov can testify to that. Vince & Shane made it clear to everyone that they don’t tolerate failure like The Corporation tasted at Vengeance, and they firmly put the blame in the hands of Kozlov. JBL & The Big Show were then instructed to show Kozlov that standards mean a lot to the McMahons with Vince himself striking the final blow. With The Chairman of the Board back at the helm of The Corporation, business might just have picked up. He may have succeeded in removing Kozlov from his position in The Corporation, although he didn’t see Eric Bischoff removed from his as Raw’s Head of Authority like he intended. Will that dampen Mr. McMahon’s spirits?

Bischoff has never been the most popular individual in the WWE, and it wasn’t just The McMahon’s who were breathing down his neck last week. Randy Orton was adamant that he was owed another rematch for the WWE Championship. He didn’t get it but made a statement that Bischoff is sure to have received loud and clear. The Legend Killer almost cost Batista the WWE title last week when he came out of nowhere to RKO The Animal during his match to Kane. Luckily that wasn’t the case, but it appears as if Orton isn’t going to give up his pursuit to reclaim the title he claims he never lost.

Orton wasn’t the only one on a mission last week as Ted DiBiase Jr seems to be feeling the stress of having his father, the WWE Hall of Famer, The Million Dollar Man trying to teach some respect. The boy wonder’s left his father with no doubt that he wants to do things his own way, and he even slapped the WWE legend across the face. That was moments after he attacked Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler when it appeared that The King took a shine to DiBiase’s girlfriend, Maryse. He hit Lawler in the face, leaving the color commentator requiring attention from the EMT’s. We’ve since learnt that he’s having difficulties with his vision thanks to an injury to his eye, and that he won’t be on Raw this week. Will DiBiase be forced to learn some respect this week? He certainly needs it.

Kofi Kingston came through a demanding Steel Cage match a week ago at Vengeance, and after taking a week off to recover from the hellacious match, he’ll be back live on Raw this week. As will be the man who failed to capture the title that night, Cody Rhodes. There’s undoubtedly going to be a contrast of emotions between those two this week.

Our new World Tag Team Champions, Cryme Time followed up their huge title victory at Vengeance by successfully defending the gold against John Morrison & The Miz last Monday night. The Brooklyn duo looked mighty impressive yet again, and their success left the former champions with much to ponder at the bell. The Miz was furious and took out his frustrations on Morrison, even going as far as to push & shout at his partner. However he didn’t bank on being on the receiving end of a fierce right hand from The Shaman of Sexy. The crowd enjoyed that as well as Morrison’s performance & victory over Carlito on Superstars this past Saturday night. Just as Morrison was celebrating after a rough week, The Miz crashed the party and jumped him after the impressive outing. Will Morrison react as strongly as The Miz this Monday in Reno? Tune in to find out.

Melina found out that life as the new Women’s Champion wasn’t exactly going to be a bed of roses last week when Natalya Neidhart sent her a strong & personal message that she hasn’t taken her eyes off the title either. It’s easy to see that Neidhart is gunning for Melina & her title. Will that continue this week?

While several Raw superstars were released from their contracts last week, one of Smackdown’s most popular jumped ship to fill the void left behind on Monday nights. Matt Hardy surprised everyone when he showed up last week and answered Brian Kendrick’s challenge. He defeated Kendrick comfortably to get his Raw career off & running? Will he be able to carry that on this week?


 
#1,822 ·

World Wrestling Entertainment Presents:
WrestleMania XXV
The 25th Anniversary Spectacular
Live from Wembley Stadium in London, England



>The Main Show<

*Opening Video*


Images:
Various arena & stadium shots of Wrestlemania venues & openings.
Narrator: It's the most important night of the year, the biggest event in sports en'ertainment, but t'night marks an even grander occasion, the 25th anniversary of the showpiece event of the year...

Images: The Wrestlemania 25 sign looming large above the ring on Raw this week.
Narrator: ... t'night marks the 25th annual Wrestlemania.

Images: Hulk Hogan body slamming Andre The Giant at Wrestlemania 3.

The Ultimate Warrior splashing Hulk Hogan at Wrestlemania 6.

Bret Hart being hoisted into the air at Wrestlemania 10 having won the WWF Championship.

Shawn Michaels' entrance at Wrestlemania 12, coming down from the rafters of the arena.

The Undertaker posing with the WWF Championship after beating Psycho Sid at Wrestlemania 13.

'Stonecold' Steve Austin lifting the WWF Championship with Mike Tyson at Wrestlemania 14.

The Rock hitting The People's Elbow on 'Hollywood' Hulk Hogan at Wrestlemania 18.

Triple H raising both titles having won the Undisputed Championship at Wrestlemania 18.

John Cena winning the WWE Championship at Wrestlemania 21.

Rey Mysterio celebrating with the World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania 22.
Narrator: ... For 25 years we've seen careers made, superstars become icons, legends...

Images: Edge reaching up to grab the Money in the Bank briefcase at Wrestlemania 21.

John Cena with the STFU on Triple H at Wrestlemania 22.

Randy Orton walking down to the ring at Wrestlemania last year as the WWE Champion.

CM Punk throwing the World Heavyweight Championship up into the air at the Royal Rumble this year.
Narrator: ... T'night on this landmark occasion, superstars we already call legends will continue their legacies while new ones begin...

Images: Shawn Michaels hitting the 'title winning' super kick on Bret Hart at Wrestlemania 12.

'Stonecold' Steve Austin a crimson mess in the sharpshooter at Wrestlemania 13...

The Undertaker's devastating Last Ride on Triple H at Wrestlemania 17.

Edge's spear off the ladder at Wrestlemania 17.

Brock Lesnar's neck-breaking moonsault at Wrestlemania 19.

John Cena managing to lift The Big Show for the F-U at Wrestlemania 20.
Narrator: ... For this event brings out the best in the best and those wish to be the best...

Images: More shots of the huge stadiums throughout the years and close ups of fans enjoying the occasion draped in their nations' flags & colours.
Narrator: ... This spectacle is like no other in the sports entertainment calendar, the chance to perform live in front of 80,000 plus fans who travel from all corners of the earth...

Images: John Cena celebrating his WWE Championship victory at Wrestlemania 21 in the crowd with the fans.
Narrator: ... It's an occasion that unites superstars and fans alike...

Images: More shots of the fans watching their superstars walking down the aisle and looking into the crowd from the ring.
Narrator: ... T'night tens of thousands will watch the superstars of the WWE shine on the stage they dream to be on.

Images: Friday night's ending to Smackdown with The Undertaker, John Cena, Randy Orton & CM Punk all looking at each other with the Wrestlemania 25 logo hanging above them.
Narrator: ... Welcome all to Wrestlemania, the 25th anniversary celebration.


We go inside Wembley Stadium and a huge pyro display goes off around the stadium with the fans going absolutely crazy, and now we go to Lilian Garcia standing in the middle of the ring.

Lilian Garcia: Please welcome, to sing the national anthem of Great Britain, LEONA LEW-IS.

*Leona Lewis sings "God Save The Queen"*

We go to ringside with Raw's announce team of Jim Ross & Jerry 'The King' Lawler.

Jim Ross:
Welcome ev'ryone to the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania, live t'night for the first time outside of the United States-n-Canada. We're live from Wembley Stadium in the United Kingdom for what could well be the greatest Wrestlemania of all time.

Jerry Lawler: You're not wrong J-R. I don't know what I'm most excited about. There's so many great matches t' look forward to it's crazy.

Jim Ross: There sure is King. Not only will we see Shawn Michaels defend the WWE Championship in what may well be his last match before he retires against a long time friend now rival in Triple H, we could well see the streak of 16 consecutive wins of The Undertaker come to an end t'night when he takes on John Cena in what many people including yours truly believe will be the toughest challenge to his incredible undefeated streak. It doesn't end there because we will also see the first match in five years of The Rock when he takes on 'The Rated-R Superstar' Edge, and there will be another Hall of Famer here t'night. Isn't that right Michael?

We switch to a shot of the Smackdown announce table with Michael Cole & Matt Striker.

Michael Cole: Yes JR it is because 'Stonecold' Steve Austin will be the special guest referee t'night for CM Punk's huge World Heavyweight Championship defence against 'The Viper' Randy Orton. This is the stage The Benchmark believes he deserves to be on as World Champion, and he is beyond determined to keep the title that the McMahon family have tried to keep off him, unsuccessfully thus far. Could that change t'night here in London? Will we see The Viper take that title from him later on? Will Austin play a role in the match? Will he screw Punk like Punk seems to believe, or will he once again get one over on Mr. McMahon? No one knows what could happen t'night.

Matt Striker: You're absolutely right. I don't believe anyone knows what to expect in the world title match t'night, along with the majority of the matches we'll see. We truly are in for an incredible evening here at Wembley Stadium.

Michael Cole: Especially the one that's upcoming now to get it us started.

*The Opening Match*



Money in the Bank
The Big Show vs. Christian vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Matt Sydal w/Mickie James
vs. Bryan Danielson vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Jack Swagger vs. Chris Jericho

Last 10+ Minutes:
The carnage is starting to show with men down all over ringside. Big Show's watching Ziggler get back up by the ropes and he runs right at him, but the United States Champion reacts in time to pull down the ropes and send Show tumbling down to the floor. Ziggler stands up sn-iggering and he watches as Show stands back up. Here comes a SLINGSHOT CROSS BODY!..... Show catches Ziggler and runs toward the ringpost, driving Ziggler's back into the steel post. Kofi climbs back up on the outside and Show turns round to see him getting up. The World's Largest Athlete runs right at him, but Kofi tracks back towards the steps and catches Show with a drop toe hold, and SHOW CRASHES INTO THE STEEL FACE FIRST!

Kofi sits up breathing a sigh of relief, and he slowly stands back up knowing he's dodged a bullet. He turns back to face the ring but Sydal comes FLYING OVER THE TOP WITH A CORKSCREW PLANCHA!!..... The fans roar into life as Sydal & Kofi hit the floor. Back on the inside, Danielson & Christian go at it and Danielson unloads with vicious kicks to the chest, really hurting Captain Charisma. Danielson grabs Christian by the arm and fires him into the corner. Christian's back hits the pads hard and Danielson sees a ladder on the mat. He picks it up and stares across the ring at Christian, and now bursts in at him, PENDULUM KICK COUNTER FROM CHRISTIAN!..... There are some cheers as the ladder's knocked back into Danielson, and he falls back to the mat holding the ladder on top of him.

The Canadian's had a lucky escape and he looks down at Danielson there, and Christian decides it's time to climb up to the top rope, getting more cheers from the fans. Danielson's not moving, and here comes Christian, jumping off the top and into the London sky, FROG SPLASH ON THE LADDER & DANIELSON!!!..... Holy hell that had to hurt, and Christian rolls around holding his stomach too as Danielson rolls across the mat away from the ladder. That hurt Christian too, and as he struggles back up to his feet, still clutching his stomach by the ladder, Jericho's back up and runs behind him into the ropes, coming back for a ONE HANDED BULLDOG, SENDING JERICHO'S HEAD ON TO THE LADDER!!.....

Jericho stands back up with a smirk on his face with Christian lying across the ladder, and Jericho's got an idea. He runs into the ropes, jumps on to the second rope for a springboard, LIONSAULT BY JERICHO!!!..... Christian's in real agony now as he rolls over & over on the mat holding his stomach. Jericho stands back up grinning too, but he's clubbed from behind by Swagger. The All-American American is all business as he clubs Jericho down to his knees from behind. He grabs Jericho and lifts him up off his feet, looking like it could be for a bearhug, but he runs into the corner, driving Jericho's back into the pads with real force.

Swagger turns round and runs across the mat to drive Jericho's back into the pads again, turns round and slams him down on to the ladder for an OKLAHOMA STAMPEDE AND A HALF!!.....He's really up for this is Swagger and he doesn't relent, grabbing Jericho's right ankle and turns him, putting him in the ANKLE LOCK!!!..... Jericho's got a fight now with the mega pumped Swagger looking to break his ankle, but Jericho fights back, managing to turn himself over and kick up at Swagger, sending him back towards the corner. Jericho sits up and tries to get back on his feet, but Swagger comes right back him, super pissed, but up jumps Jericho with a CODEBREAKER TO SWAGGER!!!.....

It gets a mixed response from the smarky London crowd as Swagger rolls across the mat to the apron. Jericho has a clear path of sorts as he stands back up and sees he has a chance. He picks up the ladder on the mat and sets it up, going for a climb to try & get the briefcase. There's a split crowd as he starts to climb, but Sydal is climbing back up on the apron, and he grabs the top rope behind Jericho with both hands. The Canadian has no idea as Sydal springs into action with a SPRINGBOARD DROPKICK INTO THE LADDER!!!..... Jericho and the ladder fall to the side and down to the mat, mostly to cheers from the crowd. Sydal picks himself back up but Danielson's up too and tries to help the current King of the Ring up too.

Sydal though responds with stiff kicks to the body of Danielson. Sydal has him reeling and grabs the wrist to send him into the corner, running behind him to follow him in, but Danielson jumps on to the top rope and flips back over him. Sydal's shocked and Danielson lifts him up off the mat in a flash on to his shoulder, stepping away from the corner, dropping Sydal in a SIDE SUPLEX ON TO THE FALLEN LADDER!!!..... Sydal's the one rolling around in agony now, but Danielson's not done with him it seems as he picks the ladder up, now off centre of the ring and stands it up. He stares down intently at Sydal, now starts to climb the ladder, all the way to the top. He switches sides, climbing across the top to stand looking down at Sydal, and the King isn't moving much.

Daniels composes himself, now falls forward for A DIVING HEADBUTT OFF THE TOP OF THE LADDER ON TO SYDAL!!!..... The fans are in shock but they love it, cheering as Danielson rolls around on the mat feeling the effects of that one. Kofi & Ziggler both pick themselves back up on the outside and Kofi sees Dolph. He runs at the United States Champion, but Dolph ducks a clothesline, kicks Kofi in the gut and hits a LEG DROP BULLDOG ON THE FLOOR!!!..... Ziggler stands back up with a big smirk on his face, now turns and rolls into the ring, seeing Danielson standing back up, grabbing the ladder to turn and set it up. Danielson turns round and Dolph runs at him, DROPKICK TO THE LADDER TO PUT DANIELSON BACK DOWN!!.....

Big Show's getting back up on the floor too as a very cocky Ziggler grabs the ladder to set it up. He does set it up with his back to Big Show as he stands back up on the apron and steps over the top rope. He walks up behind Dolph as he takes a couple of steps up the ladder. Show nails him across the back and turns to back into the ladder. He reaches up and grabs hold of Dolph with both arms around the waist, steps away and walks towards the corner with Dolph lifted up above his head panicking big time, and he's SLAMMED INTO THE CORNER PADS FOR A TURNBUCKLE POWERBOMB!!!..... Down goes to Ziggler to a big pop, and he rolls under the apron, but Show's all business, not getting carried away or enjoying it for a moment.

As he turns round though he's met by an ENZUIGIRI FROM JERICHO!!..... Show falls to one knee and Jericho turns back to run the ropes, but up jumps Show, grabs Jericho around the throat and CHOKESLAM!!!..... Down goes Jericho again and the Canadian rolls across the mat and out of the ring to the floor. Show's got a sick smile on his face this time as he takes out his rival, but Christian's back on his feet and starts to climb the ladder. Show turns round and sees Christian climbing with the fans cheering him up there. Big Show though grabs hold of the ladder, threatening to shake it. Christian stops & looks down, realising he's not going anywhere now. He jumps down, landing heavily on his feet.

Show turns to clothesline him but Christian ducks and dropkicks him in the back of the legs. Up shoots Christian with Show on his knees, and he runs past Show into the ropes, comes back off them for a SITOUT DROPKICK TO THE FACE!!..... He stands back up, as does Danielson. They both shift towards the ladder and climb it, getting to the top and they have to slug it out, and as they do, Swagger gets back up. He walks towards the ladder seeing them both up there, and he pushes the ladder back, and both CHRISTIAN & DANIELSON FALL, CRASHING & BURNING AS THEY HIT THE MAT!!!..... The path is clear for The All-American American and he pulls the ladder back, steadying it on the mat before climbing it himself.

The fans boo as he takes each rung calmly, but here comes Big Show. He back up on his feet and sees Swagger climbing. He climbs the opposite side, causing Swagger to stop, panicking as he sees Show coming to stop him. Big Show tries to catch him up as Swagger climbs in a hurry, reaching up to try and grab the briefcase. There are gasps from the crowd as he touches it, but it swings away from him, allowing Show to reach him, and he reaches across to grab The All-American American by the throat. Swagger shakes his head, begging for Show not to do it, but he does, CHOKESLAM OFF THE LADDER!!!..... HOLY SHIT!!!..... Swagger hits the mat and rolls out of the ring with Show on his own to go for it, and he's close as he reaches up.

He touches it but it swings away. He has to take another rung, but Kofi rolls back in the ring armed with another ladder behind Show. He stands up with the ladder and goes after Show, throwing the ladder up at Show's back. It stops show and Kofi picks it back up to drive it into Show's lower back, now his legs. Show falters and Kofi turns back to the corner, pulling himself up to the second rope with the ladder in both hands. He jumps off towards Show and DRIVES THE LADDER INTO THE SIDE OF HIS HEAD!!!.....SHOW FALLS TO THE MAT AND NOW KOFI STANDS BACK UP TO STEADY THE LADDER!!..... Is it Kofi's time? He starts to climb as Christian picks himself back up, bringing the ladder up too that Kofi just had.

Captain Charisma stands it up a few feet away and Kofi turns to see. He tries to climb quicker and get closer to the briefcase. Christian's scaling quickly but Kofi can't get anywhere near the briefcase, and as Kofi turns again, Christian DIVES ACROSS TO SPEAR HIM OFF THE LADDER TO AN ALMIGHTY POP!!!..... Both men are down & out, flat on their backs as Danielson makes his way back up. There are bodies lying all around him and he's got a chance now to take the contract. He goes after it, starting to climb the ladder, but Ziggler crawls across the mat towards the ladder. The United States Champion grabs the base of the ladder and drags himself up it, oblivious to Shawn Michaels' protégé getting half way up.

Dolph comes to life, frantically trying to stop Bryan, and he reaches up to grab his foot. Ziggler climbs up as Danielson tries to stamp back at him, but Dolph hammers him across the lower back and drags him down a few rungs, ZIG ZAG OFF THE LADDER!!!..... Everyone's down, only Sydal stirring. He lifts his head up off the mat and looks around the ring. He crawls across to the ladder with Mickie watching, starting to get a little excited. She watches closely, leaning on the apron and encouraging her boyfriend, and as he gets to the base of the ladder, the fans encourage him too. Cheers ring round the arena as the King of the Ring climbs on to the ladder and starts to climb it, slowly though, still hurt.

The Big Show's sitting up now though, and Sydal sees him. The former United States Champion drags himself up the ladder with everything he's got with Mickie willing him up there, as are the crowd, but here comes Show. He's back up but Sydal is close to the briefcase, reaching up to try & grab it, but Show stands next to the ladder and pushes it back slowly towards the rope and Sydal FALLS OFF THE LADDER THROUGH A TABLE ON THE OUTSIDE!!!..... Mickie rushes round to check on her man, but he's out of it. The referee checks on him too as Show looks down at him, focusing on the job in hand as he pulls the ladder back and walks round to climb it. Up he goes, but back to life comes Jericho.

The self proclaimed Best In The World sees Show going up and panics, racing to the ladder and climbing the opposite side. It surprises Show and the crowd roar as both men climb their way towards the top, and Show's almost there. He reaches up and grabs the briefcase with both hands, but Jericho throws a right hand across, hammering him in the head. Show holds firm and swings the briefcase into Jericho's face, knocking the Canadian off balance. Jericho hangs on to the ladder though, but Show lets go of the briefcase and HAMMERS JERICHO WITH THE HUGE KNOCKOUT PUNCH!!!.....

Jericho just falls to the mat, absolutely out of it with the crowd cheering, but they roar even louder now as Christian scurries up the ladder behind Show with Show's hands back on the contract. Christian reaches up though and low blows Show, and down falls the giant to another huge cheer! Show falls awkwardly to the mat as Christian steadies the ladder, but Ziggler's back up and runs at him for a wild clothesline. Christian ducks it though and hits the KILLSWITCH ON ZIGGLER!!!..... The cord are going nuts as Christian stands back up with the United States Champion down like everyone else.

There's no one left to stop him, or is there? Swagger sits up on the floor and drags himself across the floor slowly to get to the apron. Christian climbs the ladder though, unchallenged with the fans on their feet pushing Captain Charisma all the way up, and he's almost there. Swagger leans against the apron looking spent, only able to watch as Christian reaches up to grab it, but he's not quite there. He takes another step as Swagger thrusts himself under the bottom rope. Christian though reaches up again and grabs the briefcase with one hand, GOES TO UNHOOK IT, AND HE DOES!!!..... HE'S DONE IT!!!

Lilian Garcia:
The winner of this bout, and now holder of the Money in the Bank contract... CAPTAIN CHARISMA... CHRIS-TIAN!.

"Just Close Your Eyes" blasts out with the fans still cheering & applauding Christian as he lifts the briefcase up in the air. He sits down on top of the ladder and takes a long look at it, feeling the emotion and he brings it into his chest, holding it close to him, letting it sink in that he is now just one match away from becoming a world champion. He looks around the stadium taking it in, tearing up at the support he's getting with almost everyone up applauding his efforts & victory. He stands up again on top of the ladder, lifting it defiantly up into the air, thrusting it up & up, so pumped!

Michael Cole:
CHRISTIAN'S DONE IT. CHRISTIAN HAS WON MONEY IN THE BANK!

Jim Ross: Indeed he has. Christian has done the unthinkable. The dream of becoming a world champion has almost come true. Surely now it's just a matter of time for this gutsy gutsy superstar, and in my opinion no-one deserves it more. You can see how much it means to him. What a night for Captain Charisma!

Jerry Lawler: The night might not be over for him just yet JR. We might see him cash in later on.

Jim Ross: Well King, we'll have t' wait-n-see on that one, but right now, congratulations to Christian, or Mister Money in the Bank as he'll now be known.



*Video Recap*

No Way Out (Last Month - 8/2/2009)




O.D.B. just cleaned Beth's clock and stares down at her angrily, but quickly drags her back up to send her crashing back first in to the pads. Beth slumps against them as the challenger storms in at her, BODY AVALANCHE!!. . . . . Boy did she get all of that and she backs up with her eyes locked on The Glamazon as she staggers out in to the path of her challenger. O.D.B. doesn't mess about and lifts her up on to her shoulders, time for the BAM!!!. . . . . No, Beth counters, spinning round on her shoulders to hit a DDT!!!. . . . .

The crowd loved that. Beth fighting to keep hold of the diva's title but they both look wrecked as they try to make their way back up to their feet but the fans start to stand up looking towards the aisle. The camera switches to a shot of Raw's Women's Champion, Queen Kong worryingly headed down to the ring looking as menacing as ever with the two Smackdown divas completely unaware of her impending presence. As they get back up, Kong enters the ring and hammers O.D.B. down from behind her, leaving the ref no choice but to call for the bell.

The fans boo as Kong targets her fellow champion, nailing her with a devastating lariat. The ref tries to keep her away but can't as Kong drags Beth up off of the mat and lifts her high up into the air for a GORILLA PRESS SLAM!!!. . . . . The behemoth just drops Beth, staring eerily into the stands. O.D.B. makes it back up and Kong turns to see her on her feet again, but she's not on them for long as Kong plants her with a TWO-HANDED CHOKESLAM!!!. . . . . O.D.B. is down & out, Beth is trying to crawl towards the ropes, but Kong walks slowly towards her and drags her back and up to her feet.

Beth looks powerless as Kong scissors her between her legs, then hits a SIT-OUT POWERBOMB!!!. . . . . Beth is flat out, but Kong isn't done it would seem, slowly standing up and dragging the helpless Diva's Champion towards the corner. The undefeated monster climbs up to the top rope with Beth motionless beneath her, and you can hear the nervousness coming from the crowd before she leaps off, DIVING SPLASH FROM THE WOMEN'S CHAMPION ON THE DIVA'S CHAMPION!!!. . . . . A ton of boos ring round the arena as Kong leans back on her knees surveying the wreckage with no emotion whatsoever.


***

Raw (7 Weeks Ago)

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 (7 Weeks Ago)
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.

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.

***

Raw (6 Weeks Ago)

Non-Title Match
Gail Kim
vs. Queen Kong
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.


***

Smackdown (6 Weeks Ago)

"Glamazon"
is playing and Beth is waiting in the ring for her opponent. Her music cuts and all of a sudden Queen Kong's the Women's Champion walking out to the stage with a look of fury on her face, completely taking The Glamazon by surprise in the ring. The behemoth menacingly makes her way down to the ring and climbs inside, dropping her title with the referee trying to keep her back. Kong though ignores him and walks right up to Beth, and the Diva's Champion stands her ground. The fans cheer too as Beth reacts to a shove from Kong by shoving her right back. Kong blows her top and takes her head off with a clothesline. The fearsome sight of the Women's Champion drags her Smackdown counterpart back up and fires her into the corner, then runs in for a body avalanche. Beth steps out of the corner though and Kong crashes into the pads, and as she turns round Beth hammers with a double axe handle to the chest.

Kong teeters but stays on her feet as Beth turns back to run the ropes, and she comes bouncing back into a thunderous lariat. Kong is mega pissed and again drags Beth up, setting her up for the a sitout powerbomb, but cheers break out in the crowd, and we see O.D.B. slide in the ring, running at Kong and hitting her with a shot to the side of the head. Kong lets go of Beth and O.D.B. unloads on her, putting Kong on one knee. O.D.B. turns into the ropes and comes storming back with a spear to send Kong down and she rolls to the apron and under the bottom rope as Beth sits up, shocked to see O.D.B. standing there. O.D.B. looks down at her, still tension between them as a furious Kong stands back up on the outside, grabs her title off the apron and stares furiously at Beth & O.D.B with tension still there between them.

***

Raw (5 Weeks Ago)

O.D.B.
walks out from the back with her music playing to a mixed reaction from the Hartford crowd, but she couldn't give a crap about it as she makes her way down to the ring, not looking in the best of moods to say the least. As she steps inside she paces across the mat to get a microphone. As soon as she gets it her music comes to a halt.

O.D.B: I ain't here t' waste any time or mess around. All I gotta say is that this unification match is a load of crap. I should be Diva's Champion right now but I'm not 'cause of this crazy Kong bitch. Now I've been told I gotta sit back an' do nothin', just watch her an' the so called Diva's Champion battle it out. Well I don't take that crap. I'm here t'night t' call out that crazy bitch, an' she's gonna find out that payback's a bitch too.

She turns to look up at the stage.

O.D.B: What y'waiting for? Get that crazy fat ass o'yours out here so I can kick it all over this joint.

The eerie music of the Women's Champion, Queen Kong hits and she walks menacingly out into the arena, not that O.D.B. looks in the least bit intimidated, begging Kong to get down to the ring. The Women's Champion doesn't look intimidated either as she drops her title at the bottom of the ramp, and O.D.B. goes to meet her, sliding out of the ring. They exchange right hands and O.D.B. takes the fight to her, winning the brawl and she drives Kong's head into the security wall. She goes to do it again but Kong blocks it and drives O.D.B's head into the security wall this time. She then grabs O.D.B. by the arm and fires her into the opposite side. O.D.B. slumps down it and the behemoth drags her right back up, this time sending her crashing into the steel steps, and the top of them comes off, falling to the floor. Boos ring out from the crowd and some of the fans in the front row look stunned, worried also for O.D.B.

The Women's Champion stomps on her head and then turns her head to see the steps. She drags O.D.B. round and places her leg on the base of the steps she's resting on, now turns to pick up the steps that were knocked off. The fans' nerves can be heard clear as day as Kong shows off her strength by lifting the steps up and driving them down on to the lower leg of O.D.B. Gasps of horror come from the crowd as Kong drops the steps on the floor and looks down coldly with no regrets whatsoever as O.D.B. reaches to grab her ankle, screaming in agony. A group of officials rush down to check on her, and they quickly call for help as Kong just watches, not caring at all for what she's done when EMT's rush down to help O.D.B. Kong decides it's time to go, picking her title back up and heading back up the ramp to a chorus of boos as the EMT's help O.D.B. up, one holding her up at each side, helping her walk with O.D.B. unable to put any pressure on her right ankle. The fans cheer as she's helped to the back.

***

Smackdown (5 Weeks Ago)
The Diva's Champion, Beth Phoenix steps out to the stage, looking to each side before setting off down the ramp not looking particularly happy it has to be said, picking a microphone up off the steps as she enters the ring.

Beth Phoenix: I just wanna say that even though we've not got along t' say the least, I feel bad f' not being there on Raw Monday night for O.D.B. after she helped me out last week with that crazy bitch I'm gonna face at Wrestlemania. What I can do though is give her a rematch after I beat Kong in four weeks to become the undisputed Diva's Champion.

*Pop*

"You're not enough f' me..."​
Michelle McCool
struts out from the back with a microphone in hand and a wry smile on her face, taking Beth by surprise, and the Diva's Champion looks up at her former rival.

Michelle McCool: Some things never change. You seriously think you're gonna beat Kong at Wrestlemania? Girl you're kidding y'self. I see it. I can see you're scared right now, so scared anyone could beat you.

Beth Phoenix: Yeah? You think that Michelle How about you bring y'self down t' this ring right now and we'll find out?

Non-Title Match
Beth Phoenix
vs. Michelle McCool
Michelle went for another roundhouse kick, but Beth ducked it and lifted her up off her feet for a gorilla press. The fans cheered as she lifted McCool high into the St. Louis sky before dropping her flat on her face. McCool bravely clawed her way up to her knees, clearly struggling, and The Glamazon gave her a helping hand. Beth dragged her up from her knees and into place for The Grand Slam, getting the three count straight after to pick up a hard fought rolling into her Wrestlemania unification match with Queen Kong. She looked more than ready for it as she lifted her title up into the air afterwards, letting everyone know she's up for the fight waiting for her at Wembley Stadium.


***

Smackdown (4 Weeks Ago)

Mickie James
w/Matt Sydal vs Queen Kong
Mickie was completely helpless and the arena fell quiet as they watched the unstoppable Women's Champion reach down and drag Mickie towards the corner. Mickie offered no resistance and Kong then climbed up to the second rope, looking down coldly at Mickie beneath her, then hit a diving splash, coming down on Mickie's back. Beth looked on nervously as Kong then turned her motionless opponent over to make a cover with Sydal watching on very worried. The count went all the way to three and Kong slowly stood up to her get arm raised by the reluctant referee with Sydal entering the ring to check on his girlfriend wasn't moving a muscle. Kong was passed her title and she turned to the apron, looking down at a concerned Beth with Kong clearly ready for Wrestlemania.


***

Raw (3 Weeks Ago)

Beth Phoenix & Melina
vs Queen Kong & Mia Rain
The Glamazon hit the ring on a mission, and Rain was quickly in deep trouble when Beth caught her with a gut-wrench suplex. The Diva's Champion then hit a Gorilla Press drop of her own, infuriating Kong as she stood up. She ran at Beth who ducked a wild clothesline with Melina right behind her back on her feet to catch Kong with another roundhouse kick. Kong staggered round into Beth's path and an emphatic sidewalk slam. The fans loved it as Kong rolled across the apron with Rain struggling to get back up, walking right into the Grand Slam as Beth & Melina picked up the win, much to the delight of the Cleveland fans. The two divas hugged and they took great pleasure in seeing the livid Kong sitting up by the ropes, steam coming out of her ears with Beth lifting her diva's title into the air defiantly looking over at the behemoth she'll meet at Wrestlemania.


***

Raw (2 Weeks Ago)

Non-Title Match
Beth Phoenix
vs Mia Rain
The momentum went in the champion's favour and it didn't take long before she put her opponent away with the Grand Slam after a brave effort from Rain to secure the win. The fans showed their appreciation for Beth, but her opponent at Wrestlemania, Queen Kong quickly stepped out from the back and made her way menacingly down to the ring. Phoenix watched her all the way, showing no fear, and as Kong climbed up on to the apron, Beth ran at her and knocked her off with a shot to the head with the title belt. The crowd cheered, lapping it up as Kong hit the floor. The Women's Champion recovered quickly and picked herself back up with The Glamazon calling for her to get in the ring, clutching her title belt and ready to go anyway. The fans were chanting Beth's name and Kong angrily & reluctantly backed away with "Glamazon" playing again with the Diva's Champion looking full of belief in herself heading into Wrestlemania, driving Kong crazy.


***

Smackdown (2 Weeks Ago)

Maria
vs Katie Lee w/William Regal
Maria was out for the count, and after getting her arm raised, Katie quickly left the ring with Regal, carrying the Union Jack and waving it at the top of the stage when they were then passed by the Women's Champion from Raw, Queen Kong. A ton of heat broke out as the menacing champion made her way slowly down to the ring with a sadistic look on her face. She entered the ring with the fans watching nervously as Maria slowly sat up looking scared for her life. She was helpless as Kong dragged her up with Maria pleading for mercy. She didn't get it at all and Kong fired her hard into the corner then ran in for a big splash. Maria just fell forward into the canvas. Kong remorselessly dragged her round and went up to the second rope, diving off for a huge splash on the back of Maria. The crowd booed like crazy but not for long when a large pop broke out as Beth Phoenix, the Diva's Champion burst down the ramp into the ring. Kong was shocked and she ran at Beth, missing with a wild clothesline as Beth then unloaded with right hands. The crowd carried on cheering The Glamazon but she had an irish whip reversed. She was sent into the ropes but she held on to them, and a furious Kong ran right at her with Beth holding down the top rope to send Kong spiralling down to the floor to a big pop. The crowd only added to Kong's fury as she stood up glaring at Beth, but she then backed away from the ring, much to the annoyance of Beth who turned round and walked over to the apron to get a microphone.
Beth Phoenix: Where you going? Are you scared or something? Get back in here.

*Pop*

Kong turns back and stares down intently at Beth who stares right back. Beth drops the microphone and Kong quickly drops her women's title and walks menacingly back down the ramp. She climbs back in the ring with Beth watching and walks right up to The Glamazon. They go face-to-face, staring into each other's eyes with the fans cheering, anticipating a brawl, and they get one with Beth blocking a right hand to fire away at Kong to another pop. She takes it right to her but tries for an irish whip with Kong reversing it and planting her as she comes back with a samoan drop. The Glamazon's down & out and the crowd boo as the behemoth slowly makes her way back up, looking eerily into the crowd. The Diva's Champion reaches down to grab Beth's arm and drags her to the corner, then heads up to the second rope, glaring down at her motionless on the mat. The fans look worried, but as she jumps off, Beth rolls closer to the corner and Kong crashes into the mat to another roar from the Vancouver crowd. They both make their way back up with Kong rolling towards the centre of the ring as Phoenix uses the ropes to help get back up in the corner. Kong sees Beth there and charges at her but The Glamazon steps to the side and Kong crashes into the pads. Beth slips behind and drills Kong with a reverse DDT, then hammers away at her head furiously when a group of officials charge down the ramp and pull her off of Kong to a chorus of boos inside the arena. Beth's livid and tries to fight herself free but can't as Kong sits up absolutely pissed too when "Glamazon" plays with Beth still held back by the officials but continuing stare over at Kong.

***

Raw (Monday Night)

Handicap Match
Gail Kim & Kelly Kelly
vs Queen Kong
Kelly wasn't moving and was dragged closer to the corner as Kong then climbed up to the second rope and jumped off for what looked like an excruciating splash for Kelly Kelly. It was an easy three count as you'll ever see, but Kong wasn't done there. She walked over to the apron and dragged a still hurting Gail over the ropes, setting her up for a powerbomb, and she sent her crashing into the mat. Gail was then dragged towards the corner too when "Glamazon" hit to a big pop and the Diva's Champion, Beth Phoenix stormed down the ramp into the ring, running right at Kong, ducking under a wild outstretched arm to come back off the ropes for a clothesline. It didn't do anything other than anger Kong, but The Glamazon tried again, this time hitting g a harder clothesline and making Kong unsteady; unsteady enough for Beth to hit a scoop slam to another large pop from the Boston crowd. Gail rolled out of the ring and dragged Kelly with her, helping her back up and helping her to the back with Kelly holding her ribs. Beth was on a mission and watched Kong standing back up, then tried to lift her for The Grand Slam.

She couldn't though and Kong easily landed back on her feet in a flash with Beth leaning forward having hurt her back, and Kong showed no mercy by shoving her forward into the pads. She then ran at her, splashing Beth against them, and as Kong then stepped back, Beth just fell back, flat on her back. That gave Kong the chance to go back up to the second rope with Beth down & out below her, but she changed her mind and went up to the top instead. The fans were shocked, worried for the Diva's Champion who was then on the receiving end of a devastating splash from the top. Beth screamed out holding her ribs as a cold emotionless Kong leaned back on her knees watching her prey. EMT's quickly came running down to the ring with Beth in agony, sitting up, struggling to breathe. Kong stood back up and backed away watching to the concern of the worried EMT's. Officials then ran down and told Kong to leave, and eventually she did to a lot of boos with her women's title as EMT's continued helping Beth, who was clearly in a very bad way. Kong took one look back, again no emotion with Beth sat up receiving oxygen in the ring.


***

Smackdown (Friday Night)
The Diva's Champion, Beth Phoenix is shown receiving treatment in the ambulance after being taken from the arena on Raw, where she was told she may have broken ribs on the way to hospital. We now see The Glamazon leaving the hospital in the morning where Leticia Cline was waiting for her, and Beth saw her, stopping as she walked gingerly out of the main entrance.

Leticia Cline: Beth, we saw what happened last night and how you were brought here. Having seen the damage Kong has done to others, what I think we all want t' know is how you're doing now and if you'll be able to compete Sunday at Wrestlemania in the unification match?

Beth Phoenix: I'm doing okay thanks Leticia. It could've been a lot worse. I know Melina's had broken ribs but mine aren't. I'm hurting a little bit now but I'll be ready. Don't you worry about me. I can't wait f' Wrestlemania I promise you that. I'm sure Kong thinks she's already won after what happened, and I'm sure a lot of people do too. I'm going to prove all those people wrong. Kong may be unbeaten now but she won't be after Wrestlemania. I will be the Unified Women's Champion.

Beth looks deadly serious as she continues looking at Leticia, letting her know just that.
*Match #2*



Women's & Diva's Championship - Unification Match
Beth Phoenix (c) vs. Queen Kong (c)

Last 10+ Minutes:
Kong's in complete control with Beth (ribs strapped up) struggling to make it back up, and the callous Women's Champion doesn't let her by herself, dragging her up from her knees. She sends her into the ropes at speed and Kong sends Beth up into the air with a RELEASE BACK BODY DROP!..... Beth falls from the heavens into the mat and she landed hard. This time the emotionless Kong backs away from the Diva's Champion, watching her drag herself up to her feet, struggling again to do so. The Glamazon makes it up, tries to get her balance but Kong charges at her and turns her inside out with a MONSTROUS CLOTHESLINE!.....

Beth's in a bad way and the fans know it, looking so concerned for her as she crawls across to the ropes, hoping to get out of harm's way. Kong has no intention of letting up though, still staring menacingly at her with evil intent, again watching Beth trying to get back up. She uses the ropes this time, and as she turns round, the behemoth surges across the ring at her, but Beth reacts with desperation, pulls the top rope down and Kong goes flying over the top to a big pop from the London crowd. The Women's Champion takes a tumble but she's not down for long as Beth takes some much needed recovery time.

She doesn't have long though and she looks down to see Kong already getting back up. Kong walks towards the apron but Beth springs into life, fighting for her life by turning back to run the ropes and comes racing back to nail Kong with a BASEBALL SLIDE!..... Kong falls back to the floor to more cheers from the crowd as Beth watches laying on the apron getting her breath back. Again Kong isn't down for long and immediately tries to get back up on her feet. Beth's right on her though this time and slides out of the ring, pulling Kong round to send her into the security wall, but Kong reverses it and sends The Glamazon crashing into the wall back first. Beth slides down it in agony with concerned fans looking on in the front row.

The cold-hearted Kong picks her up off the floor and scoops her up over her shoulder, now drops Beth neck first on to the top of the wall, causing more concern for the fans in the front few rows in front of Beth. There's no remorse as you would expect from Kong as she turns back and slides back into the ring, albeit only for a split second to break the count. She's back out and shows off a sick smile of pleasure as she looks down at Beth squirming on the floor. The Women's Champion reaches down to help Beth up, again scooping her up over her shoulder. Beth's almost deadweight and Kong turns towards the ringpost, spelling trouble for the Diva's Champion.

Kong again smiles sadistically before running towards the post, but Beth wriggles free down her back and shoves Kong forward into the post face first. The fans erupt with cheers as Kong falls to the floor by the apron and Beth throws herself back on the apron and into the ring with the ref counting Kong out. Can she beat the count or will Beth get the win? The ref gets to seven as Kong drags herself up the apron, and she only just manages to drag herself back inside to the disappointment of the crowd as well as Beth who jumps on her to make a cover.....

1.....

2.....

......

No! Kong kicks out with force. Beth's in better shape now and she coolly takes her time standing back up, starting to stomp all over the grounded monster. Kong is helpless as Beth's boot pummels her chest & stomach. She attempts to help Kong up but she's pushed away as Kong gets to her knees of her own accord. Beth goes right back and Kong makes it up. The Glamazon though strikes first, unloading with forearm shots to the face & jaw. Kong fights them off and pushes Beth away again into the ropes but Beth bounces back with a dropkick to the knees that put Kong down to her knees. The fans cheer again, getting behind Beth as she takes the fight to her bitter rival. She turns back to run the ropes as Kong jumps back up, runs out to meet her and takes her head off with the MIGHTY KONG LARIAT!!..... Beth got her clock cleaned and the momentum's gone. The fans fall quiet too as Kong coolly rolls Beth on to her back off her side to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

......

No!

Beth manages to get her shoulder up, met by a stern look of frustration from her opponent. She's not someone to anger and it looks like Beth might find that out again as Kong takes her time standing back up, bringing Beth with her. She fires her hard into the corner and Beth's back hits the pads hard. Kong watches and runs in for a splash, but The Glamazon steps out to the side and slips behind Kong to roll her up.....

1.....

2.....

......

Kick out from Kong! Both divas make their way back up immediately and Beth's got some fight in her as she catches Kong with a drop toe hold, and in a flash she shimmies round to lock in a CLOVERLEAF!!..... The fans are getting loud again, supporting Beth all they can as she this time puts the pressure on the behemoth, and Kong is hurting. The pain is there for everyone inside Wembley Stadium to see as she tries to hold on and fight the pain. The Diva's Champion gives it everything she's got to make Kong tap, dialling up the pressure, and it's working as the pain on Kong's face increases, fighting to keep her hand off the mat and tap.

The fans start to chant "tap" at her, and Beth responds by adding even more pressure. Kong's hand gets closer to the mat. Is she going to tap? She might just. She fights to stop herself but she might not have a choice and the hand gets dangerously close. The fans react, thinking it's over but Kong digs deep and fights with all she's got, starting to respond with one hell of a scary look on her face. She looks like she could be possessed as she fights the hold, dragging herself towards the ropes. Beth tries to hold on but she can't stop Kong getting closer & closer, and Kong reaches out with everything she's got, and she gets there, grabbing the bottom rope to a ton of heat from the crowd.

They thought Beth had it there, and so did Beth as she reluctantly lets the hold go at the count of three. She made the undefeated Kong dig deep there. Is that her chance gone? Can she regroup and go again? She looks to do just that as she drags Kong away by her feet and helps her back up, setting her up seemingly for a SLINGSHOT SUPLEX!!..... There's no response from Kong but Beth can't lift her. Kong blocks it now and pulls her head away from Beth, now nails her with a SHORT-ARM CLOTHESLINE!..... Down goes Beth.

Could that be it for her chances? Kong stares down with fury at her and jumps over her to run the ropes, coming back for a SPLASH!!!..... Beth rolls away from it and Kong falls to the mat to the delight of the fans. There's more support for Beth as she & Kong both claw themselves back up to their feet. Beth has to fight again, and she does, kicking Kong in the gut and she drills her with a DDT!!!..... She hit it and Kong is flat out face down on the canvas. Beth desperately turns round and turns Kong on to her back to make a cover with the fans counting along with the ref.....

1.....

2.....

......

..... 3?

NO!

Shoulder up at the last second from Kong! Sighs come from the crowd and Beth sits up looking devastated. She thought she had it there but Kong fights on. The Women's Champion also starts to come round very quickly, forcing Beth back in to action. The Diva's Champion has no choice but to get back up, and she walks into the corner, stepping on to the apron and climbing up to the top rope. The fans cheer again, getting behind Beth as she watches Kong stand up and turn to face her, MISSILE DROPKICK FROM THE GLAMAZON!!..... Kong hits the deck again but not for long. Beth too makes her way right back up and she tries for an Irish whip.

Kong reverses it too easily and runs out at Beth for a RUNNING BODY CHARGE!!..... Beth falls back to the mat and Kong reaches down straight away. She drags her up off the mat and lifts her up above her head, showing her strength with a GORILLA PRESS SLAM!!..... Kong drops Beth flat on her face again, and the wind is out of her sails now, and the fans are deflated too as Kong looks to be on top. She shows no signs of relenting either. She again drags Beth up off the mat with no resistance from Smackdown's Diva's Champion. Kong scissors Beth's head between her legs and looks into the stands menacingly as ever, spelling trouble for Beth, SITOUT POWERBOMB FROM KONG, HOLDING ON FOR THE COVER.....

1.....

2.....

......

..... 3?

NO!!

The fans erupt as Beth digs so deep to get her shoulder up, and Kong can't believe it, staring furiously at the referee. He can only signal the two count, and he does. Kong doesn't like it at all. She's pissed! Up gets the Women's Champion and she really has to drag Beth up this time. The Glamazon looks dead to the world. She's helpless as the undefeated behemoth sends her back first at speed into the pads. Kong wastes no time and bursts across the mat, BODY AVALANCHE..... She got all of it and backtracks out with a wrecked Beth staggering out into her path and a HELLACIOUS SAMOAN DROP!!..... Beth finds herself flat on her back again and Kong reaches to the side to hook the leg.....

1.....

2.....

......

.....

NO!

Again Beth somehow gets her shoulder up to the relief of the fans, but they still sound & look worried for what might happen to her. They should be worried too as a livid Kong sits up and stares intensely at the referee again. He calmly as he can lets her know it was two, but he too looks reluctant to do so. She's left with no choice but to stand back up, and she does with Beth barely moving at her feet. Kong looks into the crowd, getting booed by those inside Wembley Stadium, and she turns to look down with contempt at Beth.

She bends down and drags the troubled Diva's Champion, up on to her shoulders for an ACCORDION RACK!!!..... Beth is in deep deep danger now, and the fans know it. They try to get behind her all they can as Kong puts her through hell. The ref's right there but Beth to her credit holds on. She's screaming in agony but she won't give in, getting the crowd going even more. The claps get louder and chants of "Beth" echo around the stadium too, and she responds with elbows to the side of the head, each one getting more vicious, and it rattles Kong.

Beth breaks the hold! She falls to the mat but the blows to the head put Kong on one knee. Beth scurries to the corner on her hands & knees as Kong stands back up with a face like thunder. She glares furiously at Beth and surges at her, but Beth lifts her boot up into Kong's face, sending her staggering away from the corner. Beth runs out behind her straight away, taking her down with a BULLDOG!!..... Could that do it? Beth hopes so and turns her over for a cover.....

1.....

2.....

......

NO!

Kong kicks out to the disappointment of the crowd, but Beth doesn't look too surprised. She fights off the disappointment and gets right back up as Kong gets to her knees with The Glamazon running the ropes, coming right back at Kong for a SITOUT DROPKICK TO THE FACE!!..... Kong copped both feet in her face and Beth again looks for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

......

No! Kong again kicks out, and the frustration starts to build for the Diva's Champion as she sits up, pondering what she has to do to become the first diva to beat Kong. Beth's name rings round the stadium again, and it helps her as she goes back to work, standing back up and watching the now weary Kong try to get up to. Beth gets a look of real determination, sensing this could be her chance and she grabs Kong, looking to get her up for THE GRAND SLAM!!!.....

Surely not? The fans go crazy, cheering as she tries to get Kong off the mat. Can she? She can't. She's struggling and Kong fights it, turns round and headbutts Beth down to the mat. The crowd fall flat again and a determined Kong reaches down to drag Beth back up with both hands around the upper torso, lifting her up off the mat with ease, into the air and back down again for a TWO-HANDED CHOKESLAM!!!..... .....

1.....

2.....

......

..... 3?

NO!!

Beth gets the shoulder up, met by big cheers from the crowd and Kong can't believe it. She gets right back up though looking even more determined to put Beth away, and she drags the battered Diva's Champion towards the corner and heads up to the second rope. The end could well be near now for Beth as Kong stares down at her like she did twice on Raw Monday night to hurt the already taped up ribs. The fans boo Kong and try to put her off, and she dives off the top for a SPLASH!!!..... Beth rolls away and Kong hits the mat to a huge cheer inside Wembley. Beth crawls to the corner and uses the ropes to help get herself back up as Kong tries to stand again too. Beth's up, as is Kong, and Beth walks out to her. Kong turns and Beth grabs her by the throat, lifts her up off the mat, CHOKEBOMB FROM THE GLAMAZON THIS TIME, GOING FOR THE COVER.....

1.....

2.....

......

..... 3?

NO!

It's Kong's turn to deny Beth as she leans back with her hands on the side of her head. She thought that might've been it. Kong again shows why she's not been defeated yet, but could this be Beth's chance? She makes her way back up and tries to help Kong up too from her knees, but she shoots up and goes for a clothesline, BUT BETH DUCKS AND KONG CLOBBERS THE REFEREE INSTEAD!!!..... Down goes the referee and both women looked shocked, as are the crowd. He's flat out and Beth turns to Kong, into a spinning back fist but that's The Glamazon down.

Beth stays down, not moving too much and Kong again goes to the corner, climbing up to the second rope when a cheer starts to break out. The camera switches to O.D.B. hobbling down the ramp on crutches. Kong turns her head and can't believe it as O.D.B., on crutches thanks to Kong stares right ahead at her. Kong steps off the ropes and walks across the apron, sticking her head through the ropes, but it's a big mistake as O.D.B. WHACKS HER IN THE FACE WITH ONE OF THE STEEL CRUTCHES TO AN ALMIGHTY CHEER INSIDE THE STADIUM!!!.....

Kong falls back and O.D.B. slides inside the ring with the other crutch, clearly not needing either now as she stands up and HAMMERS KONG AGAIN, IN THE GUT AND SMASHES IT INTO HER SKULL TOO!!!..... It's deafening inside Wembley right now as Kong hits the deck. O.D.B. throws the crutch outside and leaves the other one there as she turns & looks down at Beth, another old rival. The Glamazon is stunned as she sits up. O.D.B. just smirks at her and leaves the ring to a grateful ovation from the London fans as Beth stands up shocked, clueless at what to do when she sees the other crutch on the mat. She sees Kong getting up too and the ref still down.

The Glamazon grabs the crutch off the mat and locks & loads on Kong with the fans loving every second. Kong doesn't have a clue and turns into a VICIOUS CROTCH SHUT TO THE GUT, AND ANOTHER!!!..... Beth drops it and kicks it out of the ring as the ref starts to come round with Kong slumped forward. Beth senses this is it and she digs deep, giving it everything she has to lift Kong off her feet and hit THE GRAND SLAM!!!..... My god, she hit it! She took down Kong! Is that it? Beth shifts round with desperation, turning Kong over on to her back to make the cover. The ref slowly crawls across with the crowd willing him across, eventually counting along with him.....

1..........

.....

2..........

......

...... 3?

YES!!!

HOLY SHIT! BETH PHOENIX JUST DEFEATED KONG 1-2-3 WITH THE GRAND SLAM!!!..... IT'S DEAFENING INSIDE WEMBLEY AS THE CROWD JUMP TO THEIR FEET TO CELEBRATE.

Lilian Garcia:
The winner of this bout, and the NEW UNIFIED DIVA'S CHAMPION... BETH PHOENIX!.

"Glamazon" hits and Beth sits up in absolute shock, dropping her head into her hands with the fans still cheering. She leans back with a big smile on her face seeing the crowd's reaction to her win. She turns & sees Lilian Garcia walking to the apron with both titles, and The Glamazon stands up to go & collect them. She climbs up to the second rope and lifts both titles up in the air getting another big reaction from the crowd. She steps down, still smiling in a big way when she turns round into another devastating lariat from Kong.

The music stops and boos are thrown at the irate Kong. She stares with fury into the stands and goes back after Beth, dragging her up and hitting another sitout powerbomb. The fans continue to boo and Kong isn't done. She pulls Beth back towards the corner and climbs up to the second rope, this time hitting the splash to a barrage of boos from the London crowd as she again stares with serious anger at the fans. Her music hits as she stands up and looks down without any ounce of regret at the fallen unified Diva's Champion.

Michael Cole:
What a win that is for Beth Phoenix, our new unified Diva's Champion, not just unifying the titles but becoming the first diva to defeat Queen Kong... incredible! Well it was for about a minute anyway.

Jim Ross: It was a terrific match, no doubt, but you have t' though give a huge assist to O-D-B. Without her it might've worked out very diff'rently.

Jerry Lawler: Y'think J-R? No doubt I think we're all happy t' see Beth win this match but I don't think there's any doubt Kong had more than a chance of getting this match won before O-D-B came down t' the ring.

Matt Striker: It's entirely hypothetical but the story is this. Beth Phoenix is the unified Diva's Champion, and she lifted Kong for The Grand Slam too. What a moment that was.

Jim Ross: Oh absolutely, but we've not heard the end of this I can assure you. I think there could be trouble ahead for O-D-B, Beth too t'morrow night on Raw. We're going t' have a very angry Queen on our hands, as we do now, that's f' sure.


O.D.B. is shown walking through the production area and is chased down by a determined Josh Matthews.

Josh Matthews: O-D-B, may I ask you why you just...

O.D.B.: ... Why I just what huh? Why I just smashed that crazy bitch up? That crazy ass bitch is the reason I needed those damn crutches. Now she gonna know that payback's one hell of a bitch... one dirty bitch.

Off she walks having emphatically made her point, leaving Josh a little tense.


*Nickelback Wrestlemania Theme Song Live Performance*
"Gotta Be Somebody"

*Video Recap*

Smackdown (Last Year - 7/11/2008)

Non-Title Match
The UK Pack w/TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart
vs. The Pitbulls

Smith let go of Noble as Kash came running at him, right in to a clothesline and then another to send him over the top rope. Noble looked to take advantage of the distraction as Smith turned round by charging right at him. Smith reacted in a flash and ducked underneath the outstretched arm before scooping him up off his feet and on to his shoulder. The fans were cheering as the steely Brit then ran across the ring and planted him with the deadly powerslam to get the win for him & Burchill. They couldn’t enjoy it though as The Empire stormed the ring before the bell rang, attacking Wilson on the outside and sending him crashing in to the steps before hitting the ring to attack the champions.

Wade Barrett, Drew McIntyre & William Regal double teamed them as Katie Lee also attacked Natalya Neidhart on the outside. The Empire quickly wore them down, and after McIntyre drilled Barrett with the Future-Shock DDT, they focused on Smith with Barrett hitting the Wasteland on him. They weren’t done there however as Regal applied the Regal Stretch on him and Barrett ordered Katie to get them a chair, which she did and slid it in to the ring. Barrett took ownership of it and stood menacingly over Smith, and then lifted it up high above his head before striking it against Smith’s left ankle to a ton of heat.

Barrett wasn’t done there and hit him three more times before Burchill came round and scurried across on his knees to check on his partner. The trio laughed amongst themselves before leaving the ring with Katie, and EMT’s quickly made their way past them on the ramp, attending to Smith who was screaming in pain trying to hold his ankle with Burchill livid. He stood up and glared right at them, strongly warning The Empire who watched on from the ramp without any remorse whatsoever. Burchill then went back to his partner as EMT’s continued to attend to him.


***

Footage from the break of Harry Smith being put in to an ambulance is shown with Paul Burchill, TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart joining him, all of whom were looking very concerned, and as the ambulance drove off and out of the arena, the camera spun round to a shot of The Empire watching on and laughing before walking away.

***

Smackdown (A Week Later)

The Empire (Wade Barrett, Drew McIntyre, William Regal & Katie Lee)
headed down to the ring with Katie carrying the Union Jack as always. They were all looking quite pleased with themselves and Barrett wasted no time in cutting to the chase, bragging about their actions last week, attacking Harry Smith and announcing for those who didn’t already know that Smith had broken his ankle as a result. With the fans booing, it only made Barrett more smug, stating his belief that the tag team titles should be vacated as a result as Smith will be unable to compete for some time. He went on to say that when the titles are vacated, he & Drew would get their hands on them, fulfilling their promise to become the new WWE Tag Team Champions, giving the whole world, especially the UK, champions they could be proud of. That brought out Paul Burchill, holding his title belt with Smith’s former rookie & friend, TJ Wilson along with his girlfriend and Smith’s cousin, Natalya Neidhart. All of them were furious, glaring down with anger at The Empire, and Burchill didn’t beat around the bush.He let them know exactly what he thought of them, calling them cowards for what they did to Harry, accusing them of taking him out because they knew full well they couldn’t win the titles by beating him & Harry in the ring. Barrett denied it but Burchill quickly interrupted and said that whatever happens to the titles if they’re vacated or not, he’d do whatever it takes to make sure they didn’t get their hands on them. Barrett said there was nothing anyone can do to stop them, but then someone who could, Tazz walked out to the stage alongside Burchill, Wilson & Neidhart. He told them that only he could make the decision on what happens to the titles but he had made one after hearing about Smith’s injury. He said that Barrett was right in saying that the titles had to be vacated, announcing that he was left with no choice but to strip The UK Pack of the tag team titles. The fans didn’t like it, unlike Barrett & Co in the ring who were loving it. Tazz then changed that and said that The UK Pack was made up of Burchill & Smith, meaning he was stripping them as a team, but said that Wilson wasn’t part of The UK Pack. Everyone looked on curiously as Tazz then said the only person he was stripping was Smith and that he was giving his half of the titles to Wilson, albeit temporarily. The crowd loved it, but The Empire didn’t. Barrett was livid and let Tazz know just that, but the General Manager told him to deal with it or to disappear if he didn’t like it.

***

Night of Champions (Last Year - 21/12/2008)




Drew makes it back up by his corner and tags in Barrett who wastes no time in stepping through the ropes as Burchill just about makes it back up to his feet. Barrett urges him turn round, taunting his fellow Englishman, and as Burchill turns round, Barrett lifts him up off his feet and into position for THE WASTELAND!!!. . . . . Or so he thinks as Burchill slips down his back to safety, surprising the hell out of Barrett who turns round into a stomp to the gut and the C4 OUT OF NOWHERE!!!. . . . . The fans are cheering like mad as Burchill goes for the cover straight away, hooking the leg as the ref hurries round to count the fall. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

McIntyre breaks it up with a desperate diving axe handle to the back of Burchill’s head, getting a ton of heat from the crowd. The ref’s livid, as is Harry as he stands up from checking on the groggy TJ. The ref gets right in McIntyre’s face and ushers the unapologetic & uncooperative Scot back to the corner, but he stands his ground as both Burchill & Barrett sit up. Regal takes something out of his jacket pocket and slides whatever it is across the mat towards Barrett who picks the object up. He then slides it onto his knuckles, clearly proving it’s brass knucks with the fans trying to warn Burchill as both men make it up to their knees.

Smith sees what’s happening and jumps up onto the apron, trying to tell the ref what’s going on. The ref tells him to get down as Burchill turns round to face Barrett who NAILS HIM IN THE FACE WITH THE BRASS KNUCKS!!!. . . . . The fans boo like mad as Barrett takes them off his hand and puts them in his trunks as Regal runs round and pulls Harry down off the apron, going at it with him as Katie & Natalya also slug it out. With Burchill flat out, Barrett drops to his knees and makes the cover with the fans booing the ref’s count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES, WE HAVE NEW WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS!!!. . . . . A chorus of boos ring out in the arena as TJ just fails to break the count, still hurt but looking devastated as he lies across the mat. “Britannia” hits as McIntyre joins Barrett in the ring, as do Regal & Katie with Harry & Natalya looking on furiously from the outside. Harry drives his fists into the apron as The Empire are handed what are now their tag team title belts, proudly raising them into the air with Katie going to get the Union Jack. She waves it emphatically behind the new champions with the fans continuing to boo the Brits who look down laughing at the fallen now former champions.

They then leave the ring all smiles, looking back as they back up the ramp with the titles in their possession. Harry & Natalya join TJ & Burchill in the ring as Burchill comes round, not knowing what’s happened but he sees The Empire laughing in their direction, raising the titles again with the crowd still booing. The UK Pack, Wilson & Natalya all stare furiously up at the remorseless new champions, Regal & Katie who stand there with the titles raised high into the air, and there’s no way it’s over for these two teams.


***

Smackdown (5 Days Later)

“On A Mission”
is playing and William Regal & Katie Lee enter the ring with Katie still carrying the Union Jack. They get some heat from the fans as Regal walks towards Justin Roberts and borrows a microphone. The music stops as he looks into the crowd with a big smile on his face, not bothered by the boos coming from the crowd.

William Regal: Ladies and gentleman, it gives me the sincerest pleasure to introduce you to the new WWE Tag Team Champions. . . representing The Empire, Drew McIntyre and Wade Barrett.

“On A Mission” plays again to more heat and the new WWE Tag Team Champions, Wade Barrett & Drew McIntyre walk out to the stage and lift their titles up into the air to a barrage of boos from the fans with Regal & Katie clapping their fellow Brits in the ring.

Non-Title Match
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
vs. The Empire w/William Regal & Katie Lee

Regal & Katie can't believe it, and neither can McIntyre who goes for a wild clothesline on the intense Kendrick, but he ducks and takes the Scot's head off with a SUPER KICK!!!. . . . . McIntyre hits the deck and rolls out of the ring while the ref continues dealing with London, but as Barrett sits up, Katie slides the Union Jack into the ring and his path. He picks it up and stands up as Kendrick watches Drew down to the floor, but a huge pop breaks out as the former champions, Paul Burchill & TJ Wilson race down the ramp.

Wilson jumps onto the apron, pissing Barrett off no end as Natalya Neidhart & Harry Smith also make their way down the ramp. Smith's still on crutches but Natalya runs the rest of the way as Regal & Katie go for Burchill & Wilson. Burchill knocks Regal down and Natalya does the same to Katie as the ref goes over to TJ on the apron. Barrett sees Kendrick stand up and turns his attention back to his opponent, and with the ref's back turned, he runs at him swinging the Union Jack, but Kendrick ducks it and London runs across as they both nail BARRETT AS HE TURNS ROUND WITH A DOUBLE SUPER KICK!!!. . . . . The crowd erupts as London kicks the flag out of the ring and TJ drops down off the apron, allowing the ref to run over and count the fall as the fans again join in. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES!

"Hey You" blasts out to a massive pop with London & Kendrick sharing a big guy hug, punching the air before hitting the corners to celebrate their upset victory with the excited crowd as The UK Pack back away laughing. McIntyre sits up on the outside in shock, not sure what happened, but Regal & Katie are seething as they sit up, staring at the UK & Canadian combination smirking back at them. London & Kendrick jump down and hit the opposite corners to continue celebrating as Barrett starts to stir, glaring up at The UK Pack on the ramp who show no sympathy whatsoever for the new champions who stole their titles at Night of Champions.


***

Smackdown (A Week Later)

"Britannia"
The former tag team champions, Paul Burchill & TJ Wilson walk out to the stage in their ring gear along with Harry Smith (wearing an ankle boot) & Natalya Neidhart. Burchill has a microphone in hand and lifts his hand up, asking for the music to be cut with The Empire all looking up at the stage.

Paul Burchill: The nonsense you come out with never fails to astound me. How you have the nerve to stand there and call yourselves role models and an inspiration? You might have stolen the titles from us but we will have our chance to get them back. . .

Stephanie McMahon walks out to the stage with a microphone, walking towards The UK Pack.

Stephanie McMahon: I'm sorry to interrupt but as far as this plan for a rematch goes I think you'll all want to hear what I have t' say. . . Now as much as you're all aware you're entitled to a rematch, there is I'm afraid a problem with the rematch clause. As TJ was a stand-in for Harry, the rematch doesn't apply to him. Essentially it will have to be you Harry when you're cleared to compete along with Paul who takes part in the rematch. However that doesn't mean we can't give you guys a chance to challenge our new champions.

Everyone's looking confused and they're all looking at Stephanie as she looks down to the ring at The Empire.

Stephanie McMahon: Last week gentleman you had a match, your first as champions, in a non-title match it must be said, but you lost to Paul London an' Brian Kendrick. They too have a claim for a title match. So what we're going t' do t'night is have ourselves a number one contenders match. It's going t' be, Paul, you an' TJ, taking on Paul London an' Brian Kendrick.

*Big Pop*

Stephanie McMahon: In fact, the winners will get their title match right here next week, and we're going t' find out who that'll be right now.

Number One Contenders Match
Paul Burchill & TJ Wilson w/Harry Smith & Natalya Neidhart
vs. Paul London & Brian Kendrick

Wilson's eyes are locked on Kendrick, and as Kendrick turns round, Wilson comes off the top and nails him with a DIVING SIT-OUT DROPKICK TO THE FACE!!. . . . . The fans are enjoying this as the pumped-up Canadian jumps up to his feet and helps Kendrick up from his knees, pulling him under his arm. Wilson runs into the corner and drills him with a TORNADO DDT!!! . . . . . Kendrick's not moving and TJ shimmies round to hook the near leg for the cover. . . . . 1. . . . . 2. . . . . . . . . . No! Kendrick gets his foot on the bottom rope, drawing a lively reaction from the crowd.

TJ sits up holding his head in his hands in shock, much to the amusement of The Empire. Wilson sees Kendrick starting to stir and climbs back up to his feet. He heads over to the apron and steps through the ropes onto it, right in front of Barrett & McIntyre. They taunt the Canadian and he turns round to talk some smack back as Kendrick gets to his knees. Harry loses it and wanders round with Burchill following, getting into it with Barrett & McIntyre, and Regal too gets involved, as do & Natalya & Katie Lee. Wilson turns round and sees Kendrick almost back up. He panics and hits a springboard, but Kendrick counters with a SUPER KICK!!!. . . . .

Kendrick jumps right down on TJ, flat out, and with Burchill oblivious on the outside arguing with The Empire, Kendrick makes the cover. . . . . 1. . . . . 2. . . . . . . . . . 3! The bell rings and "Hey You" blasts out to a big pop with London joining Kendrick in the ring as Burchill & Smith turn round, shocked to see London & Kendrick getting their arms raised and being announced the winners. The Englishmen are stunned, as is Natalya as The Empire back away laughing with London & Kendrick watching the champions back up the ramp. They signal they want the titles with The UK Pack also staring up at the champions who smirk back, not fazed by any of them.


***

Smackdown (A Week Later)

WWE Tag Team Championship
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
vs. The Empire (c) w/William Regal & Katie Lee

Barrett somehow gets his shoulder up to the shock of everyone in the arena, London especially. He can't believe it as he sits up, dropping his head into his hands. McIntyre breathes a sigh of relief on the apron, and Regal & Katie do the same on the outside. Kendrick though shouts some encouragement to his partner, and as London looks down at Barrett, he sees that he's not moving yet. London stands back up and drags him closer to the corner, and he heads up to the top rope to a huge roar from the Georgia crowd. He looks down at Barrett, still barely moving. He leaps up into the air for the SHOOTING STAR PRESS!!!. . . . . HE HITS IT, IT'S OVER!!!. . . . . London reaches to the side and hooks the near leg for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

Regal puts Barrett's left boot onto the bottom rope to a ton of heat, and the ref sees the boot there to stop the count. Kendrick sees it and jumps down off the apron to get into it with Regal, but Katie pushes her way past Regal to unleash a verbal tirade at Kendrick. London stands up and looks on, as does the referee with Regal stepping away from the confrontation. He reaches into his trouser pocket and slides something into the ring at Barrett. His fellow Englishman sits up in the ring and quickly grabs what appear to be brass knucks, just like at Night of Champions.

The ref turns round and notices, unlike London, and the ref tells Barrett to take them off when Paul Burchill & TJ Wilson stomp their way down the ramp. McIntyre & Regal see them, and the Scot jumps off the apron, heading round to the ramp with Regal with Katie still going at it with Kendrick. London watches on as the ref takes the knucks off Barrett, who runs at London from behind and knocks him down to the mat. Barrett then sees the former champions, and now Harry Smith & Natalya Neidhart following. Smith's still wearing his ankle boot as Burchill & Wilson get into a heated exchange with Regal & McIntyre.

Kendrick climbs back on the apron as Barrett hurls abuse at their rivals too with the ref trying to calm things down, stepping outside. London claws his way back up and crawls across the mat behind the oblivious Barrett. Kendrick sees what's going on and runs across the apron to kick Barrett in the face with everyone on the outside missing it. Barrett spins round in a daze, and London, back on his feet, nails him with another thunderous SUPER KICK!!!. . . . . Barrett hits the deck and Kendrick steps into the ring, then runs the ropes.

Burchill & Wilson see him coming and point to Regal & McIntyre, who turn round to see Kendrick FLY THROUGH THE ROPES TO TAKE THEM DOWN WITH A SUICIDE DIVE!!!. . . . . Regal & McIntyre hit the floor as London looks on with Barrett down & out. He sees the opportunity and hits the top rope again with the crowd going nuts. Kendrick stands up and looks on as London jumps into the sky again, connecting with the SHOOTING STAR PRESS TO A MASSIVE ROAR!!!. . . . . This has to be it and London makes the cover, hooking both legs with the ref making the count and the fans counting along with him. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES, WE HAVE NEW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS!!!. . . . . "Hey You" blasts out to an almighty pop in the arena as Kendrick rushes into the ring to celebrate with London, and the new champions embrace in a big guy hug, both elated as the ref goes to collect their titles. Justin Matthews announces them as the new champions and the ref raises their arms and they lift their titles into the air, both very emotional. They hug again as Regal, McIntyre & Katie look on in shock on the outside.

Regal & McIntyre sit up on the floor in disbelief with The UK Pack smiling at what they're seeing, The Empire getting their just desserts after what happened at Night of Champions. Katie screams out in horror as London & Kendrick hit the corner, celebrating with their titles with the crowd still going crazy for them. Burchill, Wilson, Smith & Natalya back up the ramp, still smiling as the champs continue to celebrate with Barrett coming round, not having a clue what happened. The champions step off the ropes and look into the stands one more time with The Empire looking on shell shocked & furious!


***

Smackdown (Last Month - 6/2/2009)

The Empire
were walking backstage looking frustrated as hell when we heard some clapping. The British quartet stopped and the camera panned to show Paul Burchill, Harry Smith, TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart standing there sarcastically clapping their rivals' failure to win before the break. Smith, now out of his ankle boot and walking unaided wound The Empire up, telling them they did a good job out there. Burchill & Wilson piped in, saying it was so unfortunate they're going to miss out on a title shot. They weren't amused at all and Wade Barrett got right in Smith's face and told him that they'd have the last laugh before brushing past him, followed by Drew McIntyre, William Regal & Katie Lee. Smith, Barrett, Wilson & Natalya all laughed & joked amongst themselves with Harry then telling Burchill & TJ that in all seriousness they had a great chance to get a title shot if they won the match later on, just being one match away from it if they did win. Burchill & TJ said they'd get the job done and Harry said he believed they would and they can all go have an Aussie celebration after when they win.

***

Number One Contender Tournament Semi Final
Paul Burchill & TJ Wilson w/Harry Smith & Natalya Neidhart
vs. Alberto Del Rio & Chavo Guerrero

The crowd loved it and both men rolled across to tag in their partners. Burchill & Del Rio stormed the ring and Burchill gained the initiative, and just as he was about to go for the C4 he had to deal with Chavo running at him. He helped him over the top rope to the floor but The Empire then made their way down the ramp. TJ turned round on the apron and Harry & Natalya walked round to block them off. Burchill walked towards the ropes to watch what was going on, looking furious, giving Del Rio the chance to take advantage by standing up and running the ropes, connecting with a step-up enzuigiri to pick up the huge win for him & Chavo. TJ, Harry & Natalya turned round looking shocked while The Empire looked on laughing from the ramp, pissing The UK/Canada coalition off no end, staring up furiously at them while Chavo & Del Rio celebrated emphatically on the ropes. The Empire then turned to walk back, and they were soon followed by TJ, Harry & Natalya with Burchill too when he shook off the cobwebs.


***

The Empire
were laughing backstage after what they did before the break when Paul Burchill, Harry Smith, TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart burst in to the scene absolutely furious. The Empire backed up slightly, caught off guard with Burchill squaring right up to Wade Barrett, breathing heavily and staring right in Wade's eyes. Smith then stepped in front of him and pushed him aside to get in Barrett's face. Wade laughed and asked the cripple what he was going to do, but Harry pointed out that he wasn't on crutches or wearing a protective boot anymore for a reason, he's almost cleared to compete, will be by Sunday once he's spoken to his doctor. Barrett looked confused when Mr. McMahon walked in and asked Harry if he heard him right, if he was ready to return to action. Smith said he was and Vince told him it was good news because it gave him a great idea. Smith asked him what the idea was and the Chairman of the Board told him that it was clear that there are a lot of issues between the two groups, stemming from when The Empire put him on the shelf last year. He then told all involved that based on Smith being cleared to compete he will meet Barrett one-on-one at No Way Out this Sunday with everyone else barred from ringside to avoid a repeat of what just happened.

***

No Way Out (Last Month - 8/2/2009)




Wade drops to one knee and takes a little time to recover as Smith pulls back clutching his shoulder, and Barrett shoots back up to lift him up one more time for THE WASTELAND!!!. . . . . He hits it and Smith rolls towards the ropes with Wade crawling across on his knees to make the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Smith gets his foot on the rope, setting off a big pop in the Vegas crowd. Barrett looks up and can't believe it, then screams at the referee. They both stand up with Barrett getting right in his face, absolutely furious as Smith rolls on to his side. Barrett continues to go at it with the ref standing his ground, but as the ref goes to check on Harry, Barrett goes in to his trunks, pulling out some brass knucks like at Night of Champions. The fans boo and the ref sees them as he turns round.

Barrett looks stunned and the ref orders him to take them off, pissing Wade off no end but he has no choice and hands them over. The ref walks over to the apron to hand them over to the timekeeper with Barrett walking towards Smith, pulling him up but Smith levels him with a right hand that knocks Barrett stone out. He falls flat on his back and Smith takes some knucks of his own off and puts them back in his trunks, and as the ref turns back, Harry goes for the cover with the fans counting along with the ref. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES!

Harry stands up to a big pop, getting his arm raised with "Britannia" playing. He's got a big smile on his face and heads over to the corner, standing on the second rope to soak up the moment, still smiling like mad on a big return victory. He stands down and sees Barrett coming round slowly, amusing Harry greatly before he leaves the ring and heads back up the aisle, slapping hands with the fans, stopping to raise his arms up in the air one more time, loving being back & back with a win as a starry-eyed Barrett sits up looking clueless as to what just happened.


***

Smackdown (7 Weeks Ago)

Harry Smith
w/Paul Burchill, TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart
vs. Jack Swagger
The Empire joined Michael Cole & Matt Striker at the announce table, unsettling Smith & Co from the moment they walked out into the arena. Swagger was back on his feet in a flash, so intense as he grabbed Smith by the ankle and pulled him away from the ropes to apply the Ankle Lock. He applied it to the just healed broken ankle of Smith, putting him through agony, much to the amusement of The Empire. They watched with smiles on their faces as Smith was screaming out in pain. He tried to hold on but couldn't despite encouragement from his friends on the outside. Swagger's music hit and he didn't look too happy at getting his arm raised before staring coldly down at Smith before leaving the ring, heading up the ramp looking straight ahead. The Empire left laughing, taunting their rivals as they jumped into the ring to check on Harry who was holding his ankle, but Burchill went back to get a microphone as Barrett & Co walked back up the ramp.
Paul Burchill: I think I speak for all of us, even you too when I say I've had enough of all this. We need to settle this once and for all. In fact I have just the idea. What better place than Wrestlemania at Wembley Stadium in front of our fellow Brits in not just any match? No we need something more than that. I propose that the four of us take on all four of you in a Battle of Britain?

*Big Pop*

Paul Burchill: You're not usually short of things t' say. This is one occasion I would actually like to hear what you have t' say.

Barrett turns round looking towards the back and calls for a microphone. A worker runs out and hands one to him with the UK/Canadian alliance awaiting their answer.

Wade Barrett: Y'know what? F' you that's actually not a bad idea. You have a deal.

The fans cheer as "Rule Britannia" plays with the two factions eying each other up, all eight of them looking really up for the battle we'll see at Wrestlemania.

***

Smackdown (6 Weeks Ago)

The UK Pack
vs. The Pitbulls
Back together for the first time in months, Smith & Burchill were up for this one, and the fans too were happy to see them back at it. They were all cheering, but after Noble kicked out, Harry tagged Burchill into the match. It looked like just a matter of time, and it turned out to be that way. Noble managed to roll out of the way of a standing shooting star press, but he failed with a double underhook powerbomb that Burchill countered easily with a back body drop. As soon as he got to his knees he was pulled into a pump-handle lift into a sidewalk slam. The crowd cheered again and Noble was in deep trouble as Burchill sized him up for the C4. Kash panicked and ran the ring, given a helping hand over the top by Burchill before he turned the attention back to Noble, ducking a wild right before stomping him in the gut and hitting the C4 to get the win for him & Smith. Harry joined him in the ring, giving each other a guy hug after getting their arms raised.
The shot quickly goes to the back where The Empire are stomping all over TJ Wilson with Katie Lee doing the same to Natalya Neidhart. They all stop as TJ & Natalya put up no resistance, down on the floor with the shot going back to Burchill & Smith looking on with concern in the ring as they watch on the tron, about to leave the ring when Barrett starts to speak.

Wade Barrett: Let me just say on behalf of all of us how great it is t' finally see you back t'gether. We'd also like t' thank you for the magnificent idea you had last week for us to all take part in a Battle of Britain at Wrestlemania. Personally I couldn't have been any angrier than I was last Friday night after I was cheated at No Way Out in our match Harry, but this idea of yours, well it plays right into our hands. You've given us the chance to humiliate you in front of our people in the UK. See we're all British. You two might be. . . well half in your case Harry. These two here, they're not even the slightest bit British. You're more like an alliance or united nations. When it comes down to it though it doesn't matter what you all are. All that matters is at Wrestlemania at Wembley Stadium we'll be victorious, and if you don't already, you'll be regretting that challenge soon enough.

Barrett turns round and stomps on TJ for good measure as he starts to squirm. They all walk off leaving TJ & Natalya down, and this time The UK Pack leave the ring and rush back up the ramp to check on their friends.

***

Smackdown (5 Weeks Ago)

Mixed 8 Person Tag Team Match
Team Omega & Maria
vs. The Empire
The UK Pack joined Michael Cole & Matt Striker on commentary, and they watched on, still furious after TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart were attacked in the back by The Empire last week. The four Brits in action seemed more amused by their rivals' presence, taking the chance to taunt them on several occasions. All hell broke loose and it left Helms in the ring with Regal, and Regal was in danger after just managing to kick out of a diving neckbreaker. Helms was locked & loaded for a shining wizard, but the Englishman ducked his head at the last minute and reached up to roll Helms up. He held on to Helms' tights too for a cover but it was only two. Both men raced their way back up with Regal throwing a right hand which Helms ducked before connecting with a stiff kick to the gut to put Regal down on one knee.

Helms turned back to run the ropes, running right into a forearm through the ropes from Barrett on the outside, and it sent Helms staggering back into Regal's path and a Regal-Plex. It saw The Empire get the win to heat from the crowd, and Barrett & McIntyre joined Regal in the ring with Barrett waving the Union Jack while Katie Lee taunted an angry Natalya on the outside. Hell broke loose again and Natalya threw her headset down to go for Katie, tackling her down to the floor to cheers from the crowd. TJ, Burchill & Harry all dragged the frenzied Nattie off her, allowing Katie to crawl back in the ring with her fellow Brits on the inside furious. The two groups stared furiously at each other when Mr. McMahon walked out to the stage with a microphone in hand.


***

Smackdown (4 Weeks Ago)

Natalya Neidhart
w/Paul Burchill, Harry Smith & TJ Wilson
vs Katie Lee w/Wade Barrett, Drew McIntyre & William Regal
Natalya though took it on the chin and after a few close calls herself, she immediately stood back up and grabbed Katie's legs, lifting them up to apply the Sharpshooter. The fans cheered in large numbers as Natalya then turned Katie over on to her front, putting the pressure on the English diva. Katie was screaming straight away with Natalya hell bent on making her tap, and the fans were chanting for her to "tap" too. She reached both her arms out to try and get towards the ropes, slowly dragging herself across the mat. The UK Pack & Wilson were watching closely, hoping to see Katie tap, but as she moved closer she managed to grab the ropes. The fans booed and Natalya reluctantly let the hold go as instructed, but Katie looked beaten despite getting to safety. McIntyre then reached in and grabbed her arms to drag her out of the ring under the bottom rope and out of the ring to a ton of heat from the crowd. Natalya and the referee looked on in shock, as did Burchill, Smith & Wilson as McIntyre carried her to the apron, followed by Barrett & Regal as the ref began to count Katie her out. The count got to ten and the fans booed like crazy with The Empire turning back on the stage, staring down at the angry UK/Canadian alliance in the ring staring up furiously at them, full of disgust.


***

Smackdown (3 Weeks Ago)

"Rule Britannia"

The UK Pack (Paul Burchill & Harry Smith)
hit the stage with TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart to a decent pop. They all walk down to the ring with purpose, and only TJ & Natalya are in their ring gear. They all enter the ring and Harry walks over to Justin Roberts to borrow his microphone.

Harry Smith: Last week The Empire proved once again that they're nothing but a bunch of cowards. We couldn't wait until Wrestlemania to get our hands on them, so earlier t'day we went to Mr. McMahon and he agreed to a match t'night for them t' prove they're not cowards with Natalya an' TJ against two of them. Not only is it happening t'night, it's happening now.

TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart w/Harry Smith & Paul Burchill
vs Drew McIntyre & Katie Lee w/Wade Barrett & William Regal
All hell broke loose with all four men battling it out on the floor. TJ had to tag in Natalya, and she & Katie took the fight to each other on the inside while it was going on outside too. She turned the tables, and she took control, hitting a powerbomb before locking in the Sharpshooter on Katie. McIntyre tried to stop it but TJ cut him off, allowing his girlfriend to torture Katie, who bravely fought it before being left with no choice but to tap out. The fans were happy and she rolled outside to join McIntyre and then Regal & Barrett as Smith & Burchill joined the victors on the inside, celebrating the win, much to the fury of The Empire watching on the floor, Barrett in particular.


***

Smackdown (Last Week)

Lumberjack Match
Harry Smith
vs Wade Barrett
Barrett lifted Smith back up and fired him into the ropes, this time connecting with a spinebuster. He went for the cover after that but Smith kicked out at two. Barrett wasn't happy to see it and stood back up glaring down at Harry, pulling him up for The Wasteland. Smith slipped down though and hit a german suplex, only for a two though. Smith jumped back up and signalled he was going to finish it, worrying McIntyre who again jumped up on tothe apron. Smith walked towards him when Paul Burchill pulled him down and all hell broke loose on the outside with TJ Wilson & William Regal also getting involved. It gave Katie Lee the chance to slip the Union Jack flag in the ring. The ref & Smith all were focused on the outside, giving Barrett the chance to hit him in the back with the flag. He quickly threw it out and lifted Smith up for The Wasteland, this time hitting it and picking up the win. He was quick to get out of the ring with an angry Burchill as well as TJ & Natalya joining Harry inside. They had to ensure seeing The Empire gloating as they backed away from the ring with Barrett's arm raised, infuriating The UK Pack, TJ & Natalya.
*Match #3*



Battle of Britain
The UK Pack, TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart vs. The Empire

Last 10+ Minutes:
TJ looks to get back in it, blocking a right hand from Regal and he kicks him in the gut. It hurts Regal and TJ whips him into the ropes, but no, Regal reverses it and catches Wilson with a knee lift to the head. Down goes the Canadian, but not for long. Regal gets right back on him though, stern faced as he chops TJ across the chest, and again. The Englishman sends him into the ropes, and Wilson comes running back into a back body drop. Regal's feeling it now and he helps Wilson up from his knees, grabbing his head for a side headlock takedown.

He holds on to TJ and squeezes around the Canadian's head. He gets some support from his teammates on the apron. The crowd also get behind him, and it gets a response as he makes it up to his knees, getting Regal worried. He keeps the hold locked in but TJ fights up to his feet and drives his elbow into Regal's body. The Englishman sends TJ forward into the ropes but Wilson grabs hold of the top rope and holds on.

Regal's not impressed and runs in at him, right into a raised boot from TJ. It sends Regal staggering back and there are some cheers from the crowd as TJ steps through the ropes on to the apron. Regal turns back and goes after him, swinging his right hand at him, but Wilson ducks and thrusts his shoulder into Regal's gut. Regal slumps forward and Wilson keeps hold of the top rope, uses it to spring himself over for a SUNSET FLIP.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Regal kicks out but both men race their way back up, and Regal turns into a drop toe hold from Wilson and the Canadian locks in a SINGLE LEG BOSTON CRAB!..... TJ takes it to the submission master, putting him through it. The Empire look on nervously as Regal holds on with TJ sat on his lower back. The gritty northerner has no intention of tapping and drags himself across the mat, trying to get towards the ropes. Wilson holds on as firmly as he can but Regal's too strong as he gets to the ropes, getting a mixed response from the British crowd.

The Canadian has to let the hold go and does, letting Regal use the ropes to help him get back up. TJ heads back to his corner and tags Burchill, and in comes the Brit, sights set on his fellow Englishman, Regal. Regal turns and sees Burchill coming his way. He walks out to him and is kicked strongly in the gut. He slumps forward and Burchill pulls his head under his arm, setting him up for a suplex. The fans cheer as Burchill lifts Regal up in the air for a vertical suplex, but he drops into a POWERSLAM!!..... Down goes Regal and the determined Burchill makes the cover, hooking the leg and the ref makes the count.....

1.....

2.....

No! Regal kicks out and Burchill takes it well. He gets right back up, standing up with Regal at his feet, STANDING MOONSAULT!..... No, Regal lifts his knees up into Burchill's gut. Burchill writhes around on the mat with his partners all wincing themselves in his corner. Regal gets support from his Empire teammates, and Regal crawls across on his knees to make the tag to McIntyre. The Scot steps through the ropes and watches as Burchill picks himself back up, still clutching his stomach.

He makes it up and Drew sets off across the mat, hitting him in the face with a back elbow smash. It puts Burchill down but not for long. The Englishman makes his way back up but McIntyre's ready for him. He means business and ducks down to lift the Englishman on to his shoulders for a FIREMAN'S CARRY, DROPPING BURCHILL INTO A GUTBUSTER!!.....Again The UK Pack's corner looks worried as McIntyre's right down on top of Burchill to make a cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Burchill gets the shoulder up to deny the unimpressed Scot. McIntyre looks down, frustrated as he makes his way back up to his feet as Burchill turns over, crawling towards the corner. The focused Scotsman lets him, watching as Burchill drags himself in the corner, and he turns round, only to see McIntyre there to pummel him with rights & boots to the chest & gut. Burchill's taking a pummelling and the ref has to step in. McIntyre reluctantly stops, giving the ref a filthy look.

He turns back to Burchill and lifts him up on to the top rope. Drew steps up on to the second rope, grabs Burchill around the upper torso, OVERHEAD BELLY-TO-BELLY SUPLEX OFF THE SECOND ROPE!!!.... Gasps come from the crowd, surprised by that from Drew. Burchill's flat out on his back and McIntyre scurries across on his hands & knees to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Shoulder up from Burchill! The fans cheer and Drew sits up looking shocked. He gazes in shock at the ref signalling the two count. He stands up slowly, disgusted & shaking his head. He backtracks into the corner, watching Burchill claw his way back up. Drew looks ready to explode out of the corner, and he does, lifting his big boot up, but Burchill ducks it, kneels down, lifts McIntyre up on to his shoulders, ROLLING FIREMAN'S CARRY SLAM FROM BURCHILL!!..... Cheers come from the crowd as Burchill shimmies round to make the cover as the ref rushes to his knees to make the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Barrett storms the ring and stamps on the back of Burchill's head to break it up, met by boos from the crowd. The ref's angry too and he orders Barrett out of the ring. Both Burchill & McIntyre turn & crawl towards their respective corners with Natalya holding her hand out, desperate for the tag and she gets it. Katie looks over from the opposite corner and McIntyre turns round to see Natalya stepping in the ring. He has to tag Katie, and he does. The crowd cheer as Katie enters the ring and the two divas walk intently towards each other.

They exchange words and Katie slaps her across the face. Natalya shakes her head and tackles her down to the mat, unloading on the Brit, surprisingly to the enjoyment of the British crowd. She hammers Katie but relents, standing back up and bringing Katie with her to whip into the ropes. Katie bounces off them and Nattie lifts her off her feet, SPINNING BACKBREAKER FROM NATALYA!!..... Katie hits the deck and Natalya kneels down to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Katie gets the shoulder up! The fans are disappointed but Natalya goes back to work in a flash, shimmying round to set up a SURFBOARD!..... Katie fights it and Nattie can't get it applied, falling to the side. They both pick themselves back up and Natalya ducks a wild right, grabbing Katie in a waistlock for a BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX!! .....

1.....

2.....

.....

Shoulder up! Up they both get again and Katie's fired into the ropes, coming off them, this time for a TILT-A-WHIRL BACKBREAKER!!..... Katie hits the deck again and Natalya doesn't go for the cover, instead standing up, lifting up Katie's legs, going for the SHARPSHOOTER!!!..... No, Katie kicks her off and Nattie falls back to the mat on her backside. Natalya jumps back up and reaches down to help Katie back up, but Katie reaches up, pulling her into a SMALL PACKAGE!! .....

1.....

2.....

.....

Natalya kicks out this time, and they both race their way back up to their feet. Katie acts first with a stomp to the midsection, following it up instantly with a SWINGING NECKBREAKER ON TO HER KNEE!!..... Natalya's in trouble and Katie knows it, shimmying round to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Shoulder up, just from Nattie and Katie sits up absolutely livid. She's gobsmacked, staring at the referee hoping she's got it wrong but she hasn't. She heard right, it was two, and she's still pissed. She gets up and argues with the ref as he too stands up, letting her know it was definitely two. Katie doesn't want to hear it while Nat sits up. Katie turns & looks down, fuming and she drags Nattie back up for a NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX!! .....

1.....

2.....

.....

No! Natalya kicks out and the crowd cheer again, but her teammates are looking worried as she attempts to sit up. Katie sits on the apron shaking her head in disgust. Her teammates try to calm her down, but she stands up still livid as she bends down to help Nattie back up to her knees, staring at her, slapping her again across the face. Natalya reacts in a flash though by sweeping Katie's legs, jumping up and this time she locks in the SHARPSHOOTER!!!..... The roof's closed but it might get blown off now as the crowd erupts with huge cheers as Natalya turns Katie over, applying the hold and making the Brit scream.

She's in agony and has to fight like hell to avoid tapping out. The Empire scream encouragement at her with the determined Natalya hell bent on making her tap. Katie clings on, just managing to keep her hand off the mat with the ref in her face asking if she wants to give up. She doesn't and holds on for dear life. It's not doing her any good though and Natalya stays in control, keeping her where she is. Katie tries to drag herself towards the rope, but she can't get there and Barrett races into the ring, yanking Natalya off of Katie to a ton of heat

The fans boo like crazy and TJ bursts into the ring too, trying to get at Barrett but the ref blocks him off, turning to tell Barrett to get back on the apron, and he does with the crowd still booing furiously. Natalya sits up absolutely fuming as Wade drags Katie across the mat to her corner, and he asks for the tag, getting it too. He steps inside and Smith calls for Nattie to tag him in, and she does. Harry steps through the ropes to a pop as he & Barrett walk slowly towards each other, crowd cheering as they start talking smack. Smith smirks and hammers away at Wade, putting him on the back foot. Harry sends him into the ropes, and back he comes for a RELEASE BACK BODY DROP!.....

Barrett eats the mat but bravely gets right back up, walking right into a standing dropkick. Harry's getting some momentum going, and he drops to the mat straight away, grabbing Barrett and locking him up in a DRAGON SLEEPER!!..... In comes Regal though to break it up, but Harry lets go, jumping up and not letting him. Regal puts the brakes on with Harry ready for him, begging him to come at him. Unbeknown to Smith, Barrett is getting back up as Regal lures him in, and as Regal turns to leave the ring, Barrett spins Harry round and hits him with an underhook shot to the chest and hammers him in the ribs too, letting loose on Smith.

Harry falls to one knee and Barrett turns back to run the ropes, coming back for a LEAPING ELBOW SMASH!!..... He knocks Harry down to the mat and he smiles, so smug as he looks into the crowd that's booing him. He doesn't care one bit and backs away, taunting Harry to get up. He does, still reeling from the elbow shot, and Wade takes advantage, running at him with a BIT BOOT RIGHT TO THE FACE!!..... Smith falls back, hitting the mat again. Wade drops to his knees, confidently going for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Smith gets the shoulder up to a pop from the UK crowd. Barrett cracks a wry smile as he leans back on his knees, smirking towards his corner. It looks like he think he's moments away from wrapping this up and he turns his head back, grinning as Harry sits up, very dazed from the big boot. He tries to shake off the cobwebs but Barrett doesn't let him. He reaches down and picks him up, lifting him up on to his shoulders for THE WASTELAND!!!..... Harry fights back, driving his elbow into the side of Barrett's head, and the crowd respond with cheers. Smith slips down to safety behind Wade's back, grabs him by the waist and hits a BELLY-TO-BACK SUPLEX!!.....

More cheers come from the crowd and support comes from his corner as he makes his way back up. So does the rattled Barrett, but Harry's right on him, kicking him in the gut and he drags Wade's head under his arm, looking into the stands intently. He lifts Barrett vertically up into the air and keeps him up for a DELAYED VERTICAL SUPLEX, REMINISCENT OF HIS LATE FATHER, THE BRITISH BULLDOG!!..... The fans eat it up as he keeps Barrett up there for almost ten seconds before sending him crashing back into the mat. Boy did the fans love that, and Harry goes right for the cover, hooking the leg as the ref makes the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

The Empire breathe a sigh of relief as Barrett gets his shoulder up. Harry sits back not looking too surprised at all, but he goes right back to work, standing back up and bringing his fellow Englishman with him. He means business does Harry and he scoops him up on to his shoulder for the RUNNING POWERSLAM!!!..... The Brits are going nuts again for The Bulldog's son as he prepares to replicate his dad again. He turns in The Empire's corner to run across the mat, but just as he sets off, McIntyre leans over the ropes and pulls Barrett down by his feet. Harry puts the brakes on and turns round, furious. He runs right at Barrett but he steps to the side as Smith runs into the pads, and Barrett sneaks in behind him to roll him up, holding the tights too and using the ropes as leverage too for his feet.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Harry kicks out, just to the relief of his teammates in his corner. Regal reaches over the rope and tags himself in, slapping Barrett's shoulder as both men sit up. Regal bursts into the ring and runs the ropes as Smith tries to get up, but he gets a running knee to the side of the head from Regal, and he goes for the cover immediately.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Smith just gets his foot on the rope to a pop from the crowd, and his teammates & fans are looking worried now. Regal's not happy at all and he stands back up on a mission, helps Smith up too and pulls him away from the corner, setting him up for the REGAL-PLEX!!!..... Could this be it? Harry blocks it, pissing Regal off even more, and the young Brit counters with a snap suplex, getting more cheers from the crowd. Both men make their way back up and a furious Regal throws a vicious right hand, ducked by Smith and he scoops Regal up on to his shoulder to another big pop, turns back and runs out across the mat, RUNNING POWERSLAM!!!..... He got it and goes for the cover with the fans counting along too.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!!

McIntyre darts in and baseball slides Smith in the side of the head to break up the count to a chorus of boos inside Wembley Stadium. Drew stands back up without a care in the world as Burchill tries to get at him. The referee stands up and blocks him off while telling the Scot to leave, and he does as a weary Regal & Smith come round and start to crawl towards their respective corners. They get closer and Regal reaches up to tag Barrett back in, and he rushes in to stop Harry making a tag. He's too late and Harry jumps up to tag TJ. A big pop breaks out as TJ holds on to the top rope and uses them to help swing his feet through them to kick Barrett in the gut. It sends him away backpedalling, and the Canadian jumps over the top into the ring all guns blazing. Barrett turns round and TJ jumps up into the air, HURRICANRANA!!!..... Wilson scurries across to hook Barrett's leg for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Kick out from Barrett! TJ takes it well and jumps back up to his feet with Wade stunned as he attempts to get up. Wilson kicks him in the gut and sets him up for a DDT, jumping up for a TORNADO DDT!!!..... Barrett counters, shoving him off his shoulders and into the mat. Barrett takes a step back and takes a breather, watching angrily as TJ claws his way back up. It doesn't take him long but Barrett runs right at him and takes his head off with a FALLING CLOTHESLINE!!..... That could do it, but Wade stands up and runs into his opponents' corner and hammers Harry, trying to knock him off the apron.

It doesn't work though and all hell breaks loose as everyone enters the ring for a mass brawl. It's chaos! Natalya tackles Katie down and they roll to the outside, fighting on top of each other with Burchill clotheslining Regal over the top and following him out as Harry tosses Drew out through the ropes. Barrett though sneaks up behind and tosses him over the top and down to the floor. Boos ring out and Wade has a big smile on his face looking down at Harry on the floor, but TJ's back up and he runs in behind, dropkicks him in the back and rolls him up.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Wade kicks out, unpopular with most of the crowd as both men race back up. TJ runs forward into the ropes, but McIntyre reaches in to trap his boot, and TJ hits the deck. He gets right back up though, staring down at Drew, but Barrett clobbers him from behind and drags him away from the ropes, up on to his shoulders, THE WASTELAND CONNECTS!!!..... TJ's down & out in the middle of the ring and the now no-nonsense Barrett hooks both legs for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

YES!!

Justin Roberts:
The winners of this bout, THE EMPIRE!.

The Empire have done it, and it doesn't go down well with the crowd, and boy is Barrett smug as he stands up with "On A Mission" playing to get his arm raised, by the referee. He's quickly joined by his teammates as Harry, Burchill & Natalya all look on sat on the outside shocked to see their rivals celebrating. They all start hugging each other one by one, and Katie goes to grab the Union Jack, waving it as the thrilled but gloating Empire members enjoy it, doing their best not to taunt their rivals as TJ rolls out of the ring, supported by his friends & teammates, still looking back, devastated, clearly hurting them immensely to see Barrett & Co enjoying the moment.

Michael Cole:
Well we knew what to expect. It was going to be a close fight, but it's The Empire who come out on top here in their nation's capital t'night at Wrestlemania, and I'm sure it's a win they'll remind us of for a long time to come.

Matt Striker: Maybe so but they earned it. It was tough like we knew it would be but they found a way to win. It might not be popular with the fans here in London but unfortunately that's not what matters. The Empire are the winners on this landmark occasion in their United Kingdom.


*Video Recap*

Smackdown (7 Weeks Ago)

Number One Contendership Match for the WWE Tag Team Championship
Power & Perfection (Bobby Lashley & Charlie Haas)

vs. Mexican Royalty (Alberto Del Rio & Chavo Guerrero)
Chavo rolled to the apron as Haas & Del Rio made their way back up with Haas looking the brighter, going for an Olympic Slam. Del Rio though jumped down and pushed Haas into the ropes, then ducked his head, giving Haas the chance to kick him square in the head. Del Rio's head snapped up and Haas shifted behind to hit the Olympic Slam to a big pop. He went for the cover but Chavo again came to the rescue, pulling Haas away by his feet. Chavo & Lashley both had had enough and went after him, and he pleaded for mercy as the ref stood between them, trying to get Lashley & Chavo out of the ring. Del Rio sat back up and caught Haas with a low blow then rolled him up as Lashley pushed past the ref to nail Chavo and started to unload. The ref turned and saw the cover, so darted across to make the count as Del Rio held on to the tights, something the ref didn't see as he counted to three. The bell rang and Lashley turned round in shock as Del Rio stood up with his arms raised. Lashley snapped, shaking his head with steam coming out of his ears, and as Del Rio turned he got ripped in half by a spear to a big pop. Lashley stood up as Haas did too looking furious, trying to make his point to the referee who claimed not to see the tights being held with Chavo sitting up looking on clueless and Del Rio starting to sit up holding his stomach.


***

Smackdown (6 Weeks Ago)
The number one contenders for the WWE tag team titles, Mexican Royalty, Chavo Guerrero & Alberto Del Rio are greeted by a ton of heat as they walk out to the stage looking so smug, and they continue to look smug as they shrug off the heat on their way down to the ring. Chavo picks a microphone up off the apron as he & Del Rio enter the ring, still laughing off the heat coming from the crowd.

Chavo Guerrero: Here we are, just as we said, the number one contenders for the tag team titles.

Chavo passes the stick over to Del Rio.

Alberto Del Rio: We told you. We told you this would happen, however the job is not done jus' yet. We still have to defeat the people who right now are the champions. Only they won't be champions for long. Now it's just a matter of time before we take the tag team titles back to Mexic. . .

"Hell Will Be Callin' Your Name"
The angry looking duo of Power & Perfection, Bobby Lashley & Charlie Haas stroll out to the stage, staring down furiously at the very smug Mexicans with Lashley holding a microphone.

Bobby Lashley: It's not like either of us to come out here an' talk. We do our talking in the ring. Last week we had you beat but you stole it from us. We all just saw what happened. You might think you'll be the new tag team champions but first you need t' prove you deserve it, because we want a rematch right now.

*Big Pop*

Chavo Guerrero: Oh, you'd like a rematch? Sorry, that's not going t' happen.

Bobby Lashley: Right then. I guess you leave us no choice.

Menacingly, Lashley & Haas walk down the ramp to a big pop with Lashley dropping the microphone when Mr. McMahon walks out to the stage looking a bit panicked.

Mr. McMahon: Wait just a second fellas, I think we can smooth this out. . . Chavo, Alberto, I think it's fair t' say that they have a point do they not?

Alberto Del Rio: No, no they don't. Like Chavo says. We won the match. That's all that matters.

Mr. McMahon: Well it seems clear t' me that you two are so confident you will become the WWE Tag Team Champions, you won't have a problem defeating Bobby an' Charlie t'night either? That is unless you're, I don't know, full of it?

Chavo Guerrero: Hey, we're not full of it. Of course we could beat them again.

Mr. McMahon: Great, I'm glad t' hear it, because right now we're going t' have a rematch, and if you lose, you won't be the only team to receive a title shot. Bobby an' Charlie will also receive a shot at the tag team titles. Good luck ev'rybody.

Power & Perfection vs. Mexican Royalty
*If Power & Perfection win, they too will receive a title shot*

Del Rio though hit the ring to break up the count, trying to stamp on Lashley's head, but he pulled back. He was up in a flash and backtracked to the ropes with a livid Del Rio running right him, getting lifted over Lashley's shoulder and down to the floor below. The crowd went nuts, and as Lashley turned round he saw Chavo struggling back up to his feet and he locked & loaded on the Mexican. As soon as he was back on his feet, he stormed across the mat at him, ripping him in half with a spear to another huge pop from the crowd. Lashley wasted no time going for the cover and picked up the win to see him & Haas also get a shot at the tag team titles with London & Kendrick watching on, not giving much away. The ref raised their arms as a shocked Del Rio looked on as he sat up on the floor. Lashley & Haas looked down at him and then at the tag team champions letting them know that they're real serious about getting the titles too.


***

Smackdown (5 Weeks Ago)

"Hey You"
The WWE Tag Team Champions, Paul London & Brian Kendrick burst out from the back on to the stage, both hitting opposite sides of the stage getting the crowd going even more. The fans eat it up and they head down the ramp together obviously ready for action, slapping hands with the fans too in the front row. Just as they get to the bottom of the ramp, Mexican Royalty (Chavo Guerrero & Alberto Del Rio) attack from behind, clubbing them across the back to a ton of heat. The music stops and the boos ring out around the arena as the Mexican duo stomp the hell out of the champions, not going at all easy on London & Kendrick. Chavo drags Kendrick up and sends him crashing into the steps with Del Rio looking on laughing.

He then pulls London up and tosses him in the ring, and both he & Chavo step inside, circling London as he drags himself up Del Rio's legs, struggling to get up, and the Mexican hammers him with a hard right hand with no sympathy whatsoever. The fans boo again, loudly, and Mexican Royalty take great satisfaction in laughing at them before stepping back, watching again as London attempts to get back up, and as he does, Del Rio runs past him into the ropes, springboards on to them and connects with a vicious kick to the head. London falls back and Chavo slaps his partner on the back before walking to the apron and going all the way up to the top rope. He looks into the crowd with a huge grin on his face, about to go for a frog splash.

"Hell Will Be Calling Your Name"

Power & Perfection (Bobby Lashley & Charlie Haas)
charge down the ramp to the shock of Del Rio & Chavo. Just as Lashley & Haas slide in the ring under the bottom rope, Chavo jumps down on to the apron and out of the ring and Del Rio scurries away too, both heading towards the ramp with their rivals watching their every step. The Mexicans look pissed to being stopped in their tracks, staring right back at the serious as hell Lashley & Haas. London sits up and Haas gives him a helping hand with London surprised to see Haas & Lashley there, and Kendrick sits up staring furiously at the retreating Mexicans with "Realeza" hitting. The fans continue to boo as Chavo & Del Rio direct some threatening gestures at the champions and their fellow challengers.

***

Smackdown (4 Weeks Ago)

"Realeza"

Mexican Royalty (Chavo Guerrero & Alberto Del Rio)
walk out into the arena to a lot of heat from the fans, not that they're bothered by it, laughing it off as they head down the ramp.

Alberto Del Rio: Ev'rything about us, our history, our family history says it all. We were born to be a success in this business, unlike the so called champions and fellow challengers. We came here t'night with an idea. We wanna see how much of a threat these two teams are to us, and we hear that our other title contenders know who the threat is, and that's not the champions.

Mr. McMahon appears on the tron from his office.

Mr. McMahon: Chavo, Alberto, I see what you're doing. I think we all do, trying t' play the other two teams against each other. Unfortunately it's not going t' work. We will however see the champions, Paul London & Brian Kendrick in action, only it's not going to be against Power an' Perfection. After what happened last week, the team to face the champions t'night, right now in fact is you.

Non-Title Match
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
vs Mexican Royalty
Del Rio & London stood up on the outside with the Mexican reversing a whip into the ringpost, sending him face first into the steel. He then grabbed one of the title belts from the timekeeper's table after taking a quick look inside to see Chavo & Kendrick coming round. Del Rio then slid the title in towards Chavo, not seen by the referee, and as Kendrick made his way back up, so did Chavo with the belt when Power & Perfection, Bobby Lashley & Charlie Haas hit the stage. The fellow number one contenders looked down angrily at Chavo and burst down the ramp into the ring with Haas running at Chavo. He ducked a shot of the title belt before hitting the Olympic Slam to a big pop, but it got London & Kendrick disqualified. Del Rio was furious and slid into the ring, running right into a spear from Lashley to a huge roar from the New York crowd. Kendrick stood up not sure what happened, as did London the outside with the Mexicans being announced as winners. There were some curious glances going on when Mr. McMahon made his way out to the stage holding a microphone.
Mr. McMahon: Excuse me, up here... There's something I'd like t' say. That being given the situation we have here, two number one contenders, three strong tag teams, what better occasion than the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania to settle this and have ourselves a triple threat match for the WWE Tag Team Championship?

*Big Pop*

All three teams look shocked.

***

Smackdown (3 Weeks Ago)

Brian Kendrick
w/Paul London vs Charlie Haas w/Bobby Lashley
vs Chavo Guerrero w/Alberto Del Rio
Chavo hit the top rope for a frog splash but Haas rolled out of the way of it. With the fans cheering they both made their way back up with Haas ducking a clothesline to hit the Olympic Slam. He saw Kendrick getting back up and stood up, then ran at him, right into a super kick that floored Haas. Chavo was squirming and Kendrick took full advantage, helping him up to his knees and setting him up for the Sliced Bread, and he hit it to get the win that the fans loved. They cheered as London then slid in the ring with both titles, handing Kendrick's over to raise his arm, both making a point of pointing to the Wrestlemania sign hanging from the rafters, winding up Del Rio who got in the ring to check on Chavo. The champions left as Lashley then checked on Haas, and Del Rio's anger got the better of him. He started throwing insults in Lashley's direction, and both stood up, resulting in Del Rio provoking Lashley to spear him in half to a big roar from the fans. Lashley then helped up Haas and they took a good look at their fellow challengers before looking up at the champions lifting their titles up into the air from the stage.


***

Smackdown (2 Weeks Ago)

Bobby Lashley
w/Charlie Haas vs Alberto Del Rio w/Chavo Guerrero
The WWE Tag Team Champions, Paul London & Brian Kendrick joined Michael Cole & Matt Striker at the announce table to watch their title challengers meet, and after the events of last week Del Rio wasn't a happy bunny at all as he walked down to the ring with Chavo... Lashley seized the momentum and locked & loaded for a spear not long after, but Del Rio ducked it and then unloaded with a super kick out of nowhere. It looked like it could be over but Lashley got his shoulder up at two to the shock & anger of the Mexican. Chavo was shocked on the outside and Del Rio this time locked in the cross armbreaker, putting Lashley fight like mad to get to the ropes, and he did. Del Rio was livid and watched Lashley drag himself back up, then ran at him for a springboard enzuigiri. Lashley ducked it though and turned to run the ropes and came back to tear Del Rio in half with a spear to a loud cheer from the crowd. Chavo tried to break up the count but Haas pulled him out of the ring as Lashley secured the three and the win, met with cheers from the crowd with London & Kendrick looking on as Haas then joined his partner in the ring, raising his hand to the frustration of the Mexicans.


***

Smackdown (Friday Night)

Paul London, Brian Kendrick & J-Red

vs Mexican Royalty & Petey Williams
Del Rio looked like he was going to make Kendrick after a double knee arm-breaker and locking in the cross arm-breaker. Kendrick put pay to that though by breaking up the hold, not met well by the referee. It made London & Del Rio tag in their partners when they recovered, and after Chavo missed with a clothesline, Kendrick kicked him in the gut and hit a cyclone DDT, a springboard tornado. The fans were cheering but Chavo just managed to get his shoulder up. Kendrick took it well and helped him up for the Sliced Bread, but as he hit the springboard, Chavo pushed him forward into the mat and took a breather in the corner. He couldn't breathe for long as Kendrick raced back up and charged back at him with Chavo stepping out of the corner to send Kendrick into them chest first, and Chavo quickly rolled him up, holding the tights as the referee counted to three. Boos came from the crowd and Chavo slipped out of the ring in a flash with Kendrick shocked. Del Rio & Petey jumped off the apron to join Chavo, getting their arms raised on the floor and grinning at all three champions in the ring who were all shocked, and boy did the Mexicans & Canadian love it, high fiving on the outside.


***

Power & Perfection
vs The Pitbulls
Lashley & Haas had to face a minor distraction when their fellow title challengers, Mexican Royalty walked down to ringside just before the bell rung, pulling up chairs to watch them. Power & Perfection paid little attention to their smug rivals after their win earlier and went about the job in hand, clearly worrying them as he effortlessly tossed Kash up & behind him with a flipping release german suplex before an onrushing Noble ran into a overhead belly-to-belly suplex. It sent Noble rolling to the floor, and when Kash made it back up he was torn in half by a rip roaring spear. Instead of going for the cover, he tagged in Haas who stepped in the ring and circled the squirming Kash, and when he was able to get back up, Haas connected with an Olympic Slam. With the fans cheering and Mexican Royalty looking worried, Noble was getting back on the apron, only to be knocked down by Haas who ran at him and nailed him with a forearm shot. He turned back to Kash and locked in the Haas of Pain, quickly giving him no choice but to tap out, getting another cheer from the crowd. He & Lashley got their arms raised and Del Rio & Chavo stood up from their seats and walked over to the apron, stepping up with Haas & Lashley getting ready for them when Paul London & Brian Kendrick emerged from the back, walking down to the ring, catching the attention of Mexican Royalty and Power & Perfection. Del Rio & Chavo reluctantly stepped down off the apron with all three teams looking round at each other.
*Match #4*



WWE Tag Team Championship
Paul London & Brian Kendrick (c) vs. Power & Perfection
vs. Mexican Royalty

Last 10+ Minutes:
Haas makes his way back up with Del Rio enjoying seeing him struggle to do so. He stomps him in the gut and sends him into the ropes, reversed though by Haas and he catches the Mexican with a picture perfect standing dropkick. That gets the crowd going again as both men pick themselves back up and Haas thinks fast, inverted atomic drop on Del Rio. The Mexican hobbles around on the mat, turning back into a NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX!!.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Del Rio gets the shoulder up! Up they both get but Haas is bursting to get up, and he heads over to the corner, racing through the ropes and up to the top rope. Del Rio's up and turns to see Haas jump off the top, MISSILE DROPKICK!..... Down they go but not for long. Haas is feeling the momentum swing his way now and Del Rio's rattled, walking into a kick to the gut and a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK SUPLEX, AND HAAS MAKES THE COVER!!.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Kick out by Del Rio! Haas is frustrated this time but shrugs it off quickly, getting back up and bringing del Rio with him. He sends the Mexican towards the corner but Del Rio reverses it to send Haas into the pads. The mean looking Mexican doesn't hang around and flies in at him, STEP-UP ENZUIGIRI TO HAAS!!..... Del Rio steps back, watching Haas trudge out into his path and a FIREMAN'S CARRY INTO A DOUBLE KNEE FACEBUSTER!!..... Holy shit! What a move from Del Rio! Haas rolls around holding his head but Del Rio turns him back off his side on to his back, hooking both legs to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Haas gets his shoulder up and Del Rio can't believe it. He sits up in shock, gazing astonishingly at the ref. He's got no choice but to accept it as the courageous Haas starts to stir. The mood turns to anger and he stands up, backing away watching Haas try to sit back up, getting ready to explode. Haas sits up and a fierce Del Rio goes for him, SUPER KICK TO THE SEATED HAAS!!..... Haas ducks it and jumps up, RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX ON DEL RIO!!..... The fans cheer as Haas shows his resilience once again.

They both crawl towards their closest corners, but Haas isn't near his. He has to tag London as Del Rio tags in Chavo. He & London burst into the ring at each other and London ducks a clothesline, takes down Chavo with a dropkick. They're both rushing back up and London this time connects with a DROPSAULT!..... He races back up and runs into the corner, headed straight for the top rope. Chavo's back up too and he turns into the corner, DIVING CROSS BODY BY LONDON, AND HE HOLDS ON FOR THE COVER.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Chavo kicks out pretty comfortably and up they both get again. London's the one up first and takes advantage, BRIDGING FALLAWAY SLAM!!..... The fans are loving it as London holds on for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Shoulder up from Chavo but London's on top right now. He doesn't let the two count bother him and jumps back up with Chavo reeling. London runs the forward as Chavo climbs back up, and London runs back, TILT-A-WHIRL BACKBREAKER FROM CHAVO!!..... He's turned the tables and goes for the cover in a heartbeat.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

The fans cheer as London gets the shoulder up. Chavo shakes his head in frustration, standing up and stamping his foot. He bends down and helps pull London back up, setting him up for a suplex. Here it comes, suplex from Chavo with a twist of hips, THE THREE AMIGO'S FROM GUERRERO AND HE STANDS UP TO CHANTS OF "EDDIE!"..... There's no emotion from Chavo as he stands up, looking down at London lying there almost motionless. The Mexican turns to walk towards the corner, stepping through the ropes and climbing up to the top rope, and he points up to the sky to a huge pop.

IT'S FROG SPLASH TIME!!!..... No, London rolls out of the way of it. The fans cheer as Chavo crashes into the mat to a pop. Kendrick leans over to the ropes to encourage his partner as both he & Chavo claw their way back up to their feet. It's Chavo up first and he sees London getting up. The Mexican fills with rage and charges at him for a clothesline. London ducks it, Chavo turns back round, SUPER KICK FROM LONDON!!!..... Chavo falls flat on his back and London falls on top of him, reaching to the side to hook the leg with the fans counting along with the ref's count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Somehow Chavo gets his shoulder up and London can't believe it as he sits up, dropping his head into his hands. Chavo's eyes start to flicker and Del Rio takes a deep intake of breath on the apron, seeing his partner just about survive that one. Kendrick calls for the tag again and gets it as a disappointed London stands back up. Kendrick goes all the way up to the top rope as a groggy Chavo drags himself back up to his feet, turns in a daze and Kendrick comes off the top, DIVING KNEE SMASH TO THE FACE OF CHAVO!!..... Guerrero's back on the mat but he quickly makes his way up to his knees.

He gets a hand from Kendrick who sends him crashing into the corner pads. Kendrick's fired up and charges in at him, hitting a back flip dropkick. He turns & runs out of the corner as Chavo staggers out with Kendrick coming back at him, DIVING LEG LARIAT FROM KENDRICK!..... Kendrick's getting some serious momentum & adrenaline going now. Again he helps Chavo up, dragging him into his body, setting him up under his arm, runs into the ropes, HITS THE SPRINGBOARD FOR A TORNADO DDT!!..... Kendrick drills Chavo's head into the mat and the fans are loving it as Kendrick wastes no time in hooking the leg for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Chavo shocks everyone by getting his shoulder up, but only just. Kendrick looks stunned still, deflated a bit as he reluctantly sits back up. Chavo looks all over the place as he attempts to sit up. Kendrick makes his way back up and walks back into the corner, climbing up to the top rope again as Chavo claws his way back up to his feet with Kendrick turning his back to the ring. He follows Kendrick into the corner as Kendrick takes a look back, sees Chavo coming, ASAI MOONSAULT!!..... Chavo dodges it and Kendrick crashes into the canvas.

Chavo falls to his knees, taking the chance to recover by the ropes, in front of Lashley who leans over and tags himself in, slapping the El Paso native's shoulder. Chavo's surprised but Lashley blanks him as he steps through the ropes, sights set firmly on Kendrick as he picks himself back up with Chavo being ushered back reluctantly to his corner. Lashley's ready to go, and as Kendrick gets up and turns to see Lashley there, he's shocked. He fights fire with fire and runs at him, as does Lashley.

Kendrick ducks a clothesline and kicks him in the gut. He turns to run the ropes, comes bouncing back at Lashley, OVERHEAD BELLY-TO-BELLY SUPLEX!!..... Lashley sends Kendrick rolling across the mat. The big man gets right back up, not allowing Kendrick any recovery time by pulling him up for a DELAYED ONE ARM VERTICAL SUPLEX!!..... His strength is incredible, keeping Kendrick up there with one arm, falling back to send Kendrick into the mat. Up he gets, eyes fixed firmly on Kendrick as he tries to sit up.

Lashley's so intense as he backtracks into the corner, getting ready to tear Kendrick in half with London and the fans looking on worriedly for him. Up he gets, unaware of what's waiting for him. He turns round and here comes Lashley bursting out of the corner for the SPEAR!!!..... Leapfrog from Kendrick and Lashley grinds to a halt. They both turn quickly and Kendrick explodes with an ENZUIGIRI!!!..... Lashley ducks it, scoops Kendrick up off his feet, shifts him round and tosses him back with a FALLAWAY SLAM!!.....

Kendrick's sent rolling across the mat and Lashley heads back to the corner, mean as ever, staring intently at Kendrick. Trouble could be looming for Kendrick as Lashley gets ready for another attempt for a spear. Kendrick drags himself back up, turns round, and just as Lashley sets off, Del Rio reaches over and makes a blind tag. Del Rio steps inside as Lashley charges across the mat, RIPPING KENDRICK IN HALF WITH THE SPEAR!!!..... Lashley goes to make the cover but Del Rio pulls him off Kendrick by his feet and covers him himself.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Lashley drags Del Rio off of Kendrick and whips him into the ropes, SPINEBUSTER ON DEL RIO!!..... It gets a big cheer from the crowd but the referee isn't impressed and tells Lashley about the blind tag and leave the ring, and reluctantly he does. Kendrick sits up in pain, but he has the chance to crawl across to his corner and tag in London. The other half of the champions comes in flying, urging Del Rio to get back up.

The fans are behind London as he gets ready to burst out of his boots, and he does, running past Del Rio into the ropes, jumping on to the second rope, SPRINGBOARD REVERSE CROSS BODY!!..... He gets back up, not going for the cover. Del Rio too makes his way back up, not in good shape though, and London takes advantage, JUMPING ENZUIGIRI!!!..... That could do it! London thinks so and scampers across on his knees to make the cover, and the fans are counting again too.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Del Rio, just about gets his shoulder up to the disappointment of the gasping crowd. Kendrick can't believe it like his partner, and Chavo breathes a massive sigh of relief too. London thinks quickly though, shaking off the disappointment, taking a few steps back but here he comes with a RUNNING STANDING SHOOTING STAR PRESS!..... Up he gets again and runs into the ropes, jumping on to the second rope, SPRINGBOARD MOONSAULT!!..... London comes down on the Mexican and goes for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Del Rio kicks out, denying the champions again. The fans too are disappointed but Kendrick encourages his partner. Up he gets with Del Rio trying to do the same. London walks into the corner, steps through the ropes and heads up to the top rope with the Mexican almost back up. Chavo thinks fast and walks round on the apron, catching London's attention. He tells Chavo to get lost but Del Rio runs into the corner and jumps up to nail London in the gut.

The crowd's excitement evaporates and London falls into a seated position on the ropes. Del Rio climbs up to the second rope, sets London up for a suplex off the ropes, but he climbs up to the top rope, gets his balance, and here it comes, SUPER-PLEX FROM DEL RIO!!!..... London's back, and Del Rio's hit the mat hard. Del Rio can't take advantage, not right away though, and slowly he crawls across, throwing his arm across London's chest to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

London gets his shoulder up to a big pop inside Wembley Stadium. Kendrick punches the air on the apron and Lashley & Haas look relieved too. Chavo can't believe it, shaking his head. Del Rio sits up looking more disappointed than shocked, and slowly he makes his way back up to his feet with London starting to sit up too. The Mexican stares down at him and begs him to get back up with the anger growing more each second. London struggles to get back up, and Del Rio's on him, DOUBLE KNEE ARMBREAKER!!.....

London's falling to the mat but Del Rio reacts in a flash to lock in the CROSS ARMBREAKER!!!..... This could be it for the champions. Del Rio yanks away at London's arm and he's hurting big time. He screams out, suffering badly as Del Rio gives it everything he has to force him to tap. London has to fight to hold on. He's in agony, trying to hold on but he's not getting anywhere. Kendrick panics and bursts into the ring and stiff kicks Del Rio in the back, breaking the hold to a big pop from the crowd.

Chavo's livid, yelling at the referee who orders Kendrick to leave the ring, and he does. London tries to get away, crawling into the corner of Power & Perfection. Del Rio crawls after him and grabs his foot to stop him making a tag. Del Rio stands up, still holding the boot, but London stands up too, turns round and nails Del Rio with an ENZUIGIRI!!!..... It knocks Del Rio down and London tries to get back up with Haas leaning in the ring to slap him on the back, races into the ring and covers Del Rio.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Shoulder up by Del Rio! London's told to leave the ring but Haas is too focused on Del Rio as he sits up, eyes all over the shop. Haas watches him all the way back up, shifting behind him, circling him as the Mexican tries to get his balance on his knees. Chavo knows what's coming and he storms the ring to save his partner. He runs right at Haas, but he sees Chavo coming and he helps Chavo on his way over the top rope and down to the floor. It gets a pop from the crowd, but as Haas turns round, Del Rio's back up. Haas runs at him but Del Rio ducks it, spins Haas round, kicks him in the gut and SINGLE ARM DDT!!..... Haas's head just got introduced to the mat and Del Rio wastes no time going for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Haas this time gets his shoulder up, pissing Del Rio off no end. The fans cheer but the Mexican loses it, driving his hands repeatedly into the canvas. He stands back up still fuming, but he bends down to drag a struggling Haas back up, quickly hitting a SNAP SUPLEX!!..... Haas is on his back and an intense Del Rio walks into the corner, climbing up to the second rope, keeping his back to his opponent. He takes a look back but now decides to make the climb up to the top.

The fans are anxious as the firey Del Rio takes a final look back at Haas, still not moving, MOONSAULT FROM DEL RIO!!!..... HAAS GETS THE KNEES UP, LIFTING THEM INTO DEL RIO'S STOMACH!!!..... The fans love it, cheering as Del Rio rolls around clutching his stomach. Both of them try to tough it out and drag themselves back up and Haas grabs Del Rio as he turns round, pulls him into him, EXPLODER SUPLEX!!..... Haas spins around on the mat as quick as he can to cover Del Rio.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Del Rio lifts that shoulder up to keep him and a worried Chavo in it. Haas gets right back to it though, getting up and bringing him Del Rio with him for a scoop lift into a REVERSE DDT!!..... Del Rio's down & out and Haas tries another cover, hooking the leg as the ref rushes round to make the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Again Del Rio gets his shoulder up. Haas shrugs it off as he sits up all calm & collected. He's focused and he circles Del Rio again as the Mexican tries to get back on his feet. Haas is getting more pumped by the minute, serious itchy feet as Del Rio makes it back up. He doesn't know where he is and Haas shifts round to lift him off his feet, OLYMPIC SLAM!!!..... Del Rio slips down Haas's back, BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX!!.....

1.....

2.....

Charlie gets his shoulder up to the relief if the crowd. Del Rio's not happy about it but he has to get back up with Haas doing the same. The Mexican looks like he wants to rip Haas's head off, but he settles for a JAWBREAKER!!..... Haas sits up, still hurting and Del Rio grabs his arm, trying to pull him up for the CROSS ARMBREAKER, BUT HAAS ROLLS HIM INTO A SMALL PACKAGE!!.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Kick out from Del Rio! Up they both get in a hurry and Haas ducks a wild right, slipping behind Del Rio, OLYMPIC SLAM CONNECTS!!!..... There's a pop from the crowd. That could be it and Haas goes for the cover.....

1.....

.....

Chavo races in and breaks it up, stomping on the back of Haas's head to stop it straight away almost. A ton of boos are thrown at Chavo as he's told to get out of the ring by the referee. He gets into it with the referee and Lashley hits the ring, storms across the mat at Chavo, taking him down with the SPEAR!!!..... The fans love that, and the momentum takes Chavo rolling out of the ring. Del Rio though crawls into the closest corner, reaching up, and he gets tagged by Kendrick. He flies into the ring and runs right at Lashley as he turns round, but Lashley ducks his head and Kendrick hits the ropes.

Kendrick holds on to them though and Lashley goes back at him, but Kendrick pulls down the top rope to send Lashley spiralling down to the floor over the ropes next to Chavo. It brings cheers from the crowd and London enters the ring too, looking towards the outside as Lashley also makes his way back up. London turns to run the ropes, darts back across the mat past Kendrick and SUICIDE DIVES THROUGH THE ROPES TO TAKE DOWN LASHLEY!!..... Down goes Lashley to a big pop from the crowd as the champions seize control. Kendrick looks on with a smile on his face but Haas is back up and spins him round to send him into the ropes.

Kendrick hits them but ducks & runs through, coming back second time for a FLYING FOREARM SMASH!..... He kips up like H.B.K. and London slides back in the ring as Del Rio hits the ring gunning for Kendrick, but he ducks a clothesline and both he & London nail the Mexican with a DOUBLE SUPER KICK!!!..... Del Rio hits the mat and rolls out of the ring as Haas makes it back up. London's ushered out of the ring by the referee and Haas grabs Kendrick in a waistlock. Kendrick runs forward into the ropes and holds on to them, flooring Haas as he tries to roll back without Kendrick in his grasp.

We got another cheer and Kendrick turns, watching Haas get up and he turns into a SUPER KICK FROM KENDRICK!!!..... Down goes Haas but Kendrick drags him right back up, sets him up for the SLICED BREAD, RUNS INTO THE CORNER AND SPRINGBOARDS FOR SLICED BREAD!!!..... He got it! That's it surely? Lashley climbs back on the apron but London runs back in and takes him down with a dropkick as Kendrick throws himself on top of Haas for the cover with the fans counting along with the ref's count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3!!!

Justin Roberts:
The winners of this bout, and still WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... PAUL LONDON AND BRIAN KEN-DRICK!.

"Hey You" hits and a massive pop breaks out as London turns round to embrace his partner as Kendrick stands back up. The referee collects their titles and hands them back to them, raising their arms into the air, met approvingly by the London crowd. The champs are delighted and hug again before hitting the corners, celebrating with the titles lifted high up in the air. They jump down and go into adjacent corners, milking every minute of it, as they should!

Michael Cole:
The tag team champions retain their titles t'night against the odds. What a job they did against two great teams. If there was still any doubt about London-n-Kendrick being on the same page, there's not anymore. They're back-n-better than ever. Great win t'night here at Wrestlemania for the champs!


Mr. McMahon is shown talking backstage in a plush suite with his wife, the CEO of the WWE, Linda McMahon.

Mr. McMahon: Look, even after what he did t' Punk, I don't trust Austin. He just proved how unstable, how unreliable he is. He can just blow up at any moment. That's not what anyone wants for a world title match, let alone on a night like this, the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania. That's why I need to be out there t' make sure...

Linda McMahon: ... Why you feel the need to be out there is the concern the board have. The real issue here is you doing all you can to ensure CM Punk doesn't leave here t'night with the World Heavyweight Championship. I share your concerns regarding his attitude, not to mention what he did to Stephanie. She's my daughter too but if he deserves to be the World Heavyweight Champion on ability alone, that is something we all have to accept. We had no choice but to appoint a special guest referee. We can't afford to have another unclean fight for the World Championship, especially here on the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania as you pointed out yourself. Whatever you may think of CM Punk leaving Wrestlemania 25 as World Champion, think about how it will look from a company standpoint if you screw someone over in one of the main events. I urge you Vince to think about that for the sake of the comp...

The door slams and both Vince & Linda look a little worried as the World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk walks into the room towards them looking slightly agitated.

CM Punk: ... Great, two McMahons for the price of one. What's this? Going over t'night's plan t' screw me over or are you just waiting f' Austin?

Mr. McMahon: You need t' get the hell out of here.

CM Punk: Yeah, you gonna make me are y'Vince? All I wanna know is who the hell ordered Austin to put his hands on me Friday night an' who's ordered him to screw me over t'night...

Linda McMahon: ... As I was just telling my husband, we the board have acted in order to ensure a clean match t'night...

CM Punk: ... Yeah right...

Linda McMahon: ... If you'll let me finish Punk I will explain. We feared as I'm sure you did that Vince was going to do whatever he could to ensure you didn't leave London as World Champion. We were left with no choice but to appoint a referee who would not be intimidated by him or the occasion. I can also tell you that I wasn't happy to see what happened between yourself and Steve on Smackdown, which is why I spoke with him earlier t'day to let him know in no uncertain terms that he is not to put his hands on you, or Randy Orton for that matter. He understands his position, which is to be impartial. You however cannot goad him as you did on Smackdown. You have to accept that responsibility. You pushed him over the edge. If you refrain from doing that t'night you will have no such problem with Stonecold.

CM Punk: How stupid do you think I am? You can talk a fair fight all you want. We all know what the plan is. I just came here t' tell you Vince, but since you're here too I'll tell you as well that whatever plan you've got worked out to screw me out of my world title, it won't work. I've survived before when that bitch Stephanie tried...

The rage on Vince's face is there for all to see as he struggles to keep it under wraps.

CM Punk: ... What's up Vince? Hit a nerve that did it? The fact is she tried an' failed t' keep the title from me. I got it back, it's still mine, and it still will be after I beat your golden boy t'night.

The World Champion gets right up in Vince's face.

CM Punk: If though Vince, if that doesn't happen, I think it's best you know that anything I've done so far, t' you or that bitch of a daughter, that's nothing compared t' what'll happen if I lose the world title. Mark my words, that's not a threat. That's a damn promise.

The Benchmark backs away from Vince, giving him the eyes as he slowly steps back, now turning to Linda.

CM Punk: Nice t' meet you too Linda. Say hi t' Steph for me.

Out walks Punk, smirking sadistically & menacingly at Linda with Vince seething, staring a hole through him as he leaves with Linda not looking at all impressed either as the door closes behind Punk.


*Hall of Fame Celebration*



2009 Hall of Fame Class:

Mick Foley
The Road Warriors (Animal & Hawk's wife, Dale)
The Honky Tonk Man
The Brisco Brothers
Arn Anderson
The Von Erichs (Kevin Von Erich)
Shawn Michaels
Bruno Sammartino.​

*Video Recap*

Royal Rumble (18/1/2009)




Here comes Rey to an almighty roar. The fans go crazy for him as he slides into the ring, under an outstretched arm for Sheamus, runs through into the ropes and comes back to take Sheamus onto the second rope with TILT-A-WHIRL HEADSCISSORS!!. . . . . It's getting loud in here as Rey dials up, turns back into the ropes, runs back across and connects with the 619!!!. . . . . Sheamus is sent back pedalling from the ropes in a spin as Rey Rey steadies himself on the apron, but he has to block a right hand from Edge, then hits him with a forearm to put the Canadian down.

Sheamus turns round and Rey hits a springboard, WEST COAST POP!!!. . . . . OR NOT! SHEAMUS HOLDS ON TO REY WITH THE MEXICAN ON HIS SHOULDERS, BUT REY FIGHTS BACK WITH RIGHT HANDS, SENDING SHEAMUS BACK INTO THE ROPES, AND THE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION SPINS ROUND TO TRY AND DROP HIM OUT, BUT REY REACHES BACK TO GRAB THE TOP ROPE FOR A HURRICANRANA, SENDING SHEAMUS OUT OF THE RING AND ON TO THE ARENA FLOOR TO A HUGE POP FROM THE CAPACITY CROWD!!!

Mysterio's eliminated the Intercontinental Champion and the crowd love it. Rey breathes a sigh of relief as he leans back against the ropes, but Sheamus is furious as he stands up, staring up at Rey from behind. He grabs Rey by the legs and drags him out of the ring under the bottom rope, then sends him crashing into the steel steps to a ton of heat. Sheamus is told to leave by the officials on the outside. He doesn't go anywhere and pushes them away with Rey hurt on the floor.

The livid Irishman picks up the top step that was knocked over by Rey when he crashed into them, and despite the officials begging Sheamus not to use them, he BRINGS THEM CRASHING DOWN INTO REY'S STOMACH!!!. . . . . The fans continue to boo as the remorseless Intercontinental Champion lets go of them, and this time he's ushered back by one of the referees while the other checks on Rey, and the World Tag Team Champion looks hurt.

Sheamus steps away this time, still staring at Rey before turning around as the other official goes to help the other, trying to help Rey up. Rey doesn't look like he should be on his feet as Sheamus turns round and sees him on his feet, and he doesn't like seeing that. He walks back round the ring and charges at Rey, making the refs shit themselves as THE CELTIC WARRIOR LEVELS REY SQUARE IN THE HEAD WITH THE BROGUE KICK!!!. . . . .

Rey falls to the floor again to yet more boos with Sheamus standing over him sadistically, breathing heavily before raising his arms into the air to an absolute bombardment of heat from the Greensboro faithful. EMT's come running down the aisle to check on Rey as Sheamus again walks away, and Rey's tag team partner, Mystico comes out to check on him too with the fans hurling abuse at the Intercontinental Champion as he heads backs up the aisle.


***

Raw (The Next Night)

World Tag Team Championship
No DQ or Count Out
Rey Mysterio & Mystico (c)
vs. The Epitome of Excellence

As they made their way back up, Daniels reversed a whip and Mystico came back off the ropes to catch him with tilt-a-whirl headscissors into a single arm DDT. The fans were on their feet as Mystico raced into the cover, but Kaval stormed the ring to break it up at two to a ton of heat. The fans were furious, and so was Rey as he surged into the ring to take Kaval down. Rey stood back up and looked down furiously at Kaval when a chorus of boos broke out, and as Rey then turned round, the Intercontinental Champion, Sheamus charged at him and took his head off with the Brogue Kick. The crowd booed the hell out of Sheamus as he stared down at Rey with contempt and without remorse. The ref was powerless but tried to get Sheamus to leave, but all the Irishman did was kick Rey under the bottom rope. With all three men squirming in the ring oblivious to it, Sheamus dragged the motionless Rey up to fire him into the guardrail by the ramp, but he wasn't done there and scooped him up again at the foot of the ramp, lifting Rey into position for the White Noise, and he nailed it onto the ramp to an almighty thud. He stood up to even more heat, just smirking as he backed away from Rey as Daniels & Mystico sat up in the ring looking stunned. EMT's ran down the ramp past Sheamus as Mystico crawled to the ropes to get a closer look, looking concerned for his friend & partner.


***

No Way Out (Last Month - 8/2/2009)




The crowd erupts as Mystico stands up nodding his head and turns back into the ropes, storming back across the mat for the TIGER FEINT KICK, AND NAILS IT!!!. . . . . Sheamus falls back to the mat, but not for long as Mystico steadies himself on the apron. The crowd are loving it as a dazed Sheamus drags himself back up, and as he turns, Mystico hits the springboard, coming through the air, down into a BROGUE KICK FROM SHEAMUS!!!. . . . . He caught him out of nowhere and Mystico is out, giving an intense Sheamus the chance to make the cover, hooking both legs as the ref makes the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!!

Sheamus retains but what an effort from Mystico, but Sheamus doesn't look too happy as he stands back up, staring down at his beaten opponent. He's passed his title and gets his arm raised with his music played, but as the ref lets go of his arm, Sheamus looks back at Mystico, who lifts his head up, eyes all over the shop. Sheamus drops his title and walks back towards him, then grabs his head to pull him back up off the mat. The fans boo and get a dirty look from the angry Celtic Warrior as he again sets Mystico up for the High Cross! He stands there and looks into the stands, giving the fans more filthy looks, then raises Mystico up into the air. . .

"BOOYAKA BOOYAKA. . . ."

The crowd blow the roof off the joint as Rey Mysterio (injured three weeks ago by Sheamus) emerges from the back and runs down the ramp to the shock of everyone, especially Sheamus who lets go of Mystico to get ready for Rey. Mysterio's eyes are locked on Sheamus and he slides in the ring wearing jeans a T-shirt. Sheamus charges at him but Rey ducks a clothesline and unloads with some stiff kicks to the chest that put Sheamus down on to one knee. It gives Rey the chance to check on Mystico, but Sheamus is back up quickly and he's pissed.

He charges across at Rey who steps back towards the ropes and catches Sheamus with a drop toe hold on to the second rope to another huge roar. Rey dials up, getting the crowd going even more before he runs the ropes bursts across the mat and swings through the ropes for the 619!!! Sheamus staggers back across the mat as Rey stands up on the apron, sights set on the man who cost him & Mystico the tag titles, and the Intercontinental Champion turns round in a spin, inviting Rey to hit a seated senton.

He takes Sheamus down but not for long. Sheamus turns and stares furiously at Rey, then runs right at him, but Rey leans back into the ropes and pulls down the top rope to send Sheamus spiralling down to the floor. The Irishman hits the floor to another big cheer as "Booyaka 619" plays again with Rey going to help Mystico back up, and as Sheamus sits up on the floor, he stares angrily at the both of them, absolutely livid with Rey & Mystico staring right back at him.


***

Raw (7 Weeks Ago)

Rey Mysterio & The Colon Brothers

vs. Sheamus & The Epitome of Excellence
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.


***

Raw (6 Weeks Ago)

Rey Mysterio
vs. The Miz
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.
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.

***

Raw (4 Weeks Ago)

Non-Title Match
Finlay
vs Sheamus
The two Irishmen renewed old wounds when they went at it, and the Intercontinental Champion was determined to get a win here, all business from the moment he stepped out into the arena. As ever, Finlay was up for a fight, making Sheamus fight like mad. He did though, and when Finlay ducked his head after sending him into the ropes, Sheamus came back with a swift kick to the chops. Finlay's head snapped back up and Sheamus wasted no time in planting him with The Irish Curse Backbreaker. It was only enough for a two count, not going down at all well with Sheamus who dragged Finlay right back up, only to send him right back down courtesy of White Noise. He didn't go for a cover this time and stepped back into the corner, setting his sights firmly on Finlay as he dragged himself back up, only to turn into a raging Sheamus bursting out of the corner to take Finlay's head off with the Brogue Kick. Sheamus didn't look at all satisfied afterwards when he slowly stood back up to get his arm raised as well as being passed his Intercontinental title. He kicked Finlay out of the ring and went looking for a microphone, turning to look up at the stage.
Sheamus: I hope you're watching back there Rey, 'cause at Wrestlemania I'm gonna t'row you around so bad I'll break you in half, an' I won't settle for anything less. You might be dis ultimate underdog or whatever people call y'fella, but dis time you don't stand any chance whatsoever. Dat's a promis...

"BOOYAKA BOOYAKA..."

Rey Mysterio
bursts out to the stage from the back to an enormous pop holding a microphone, infuriating Sheamus in the ring as he watches Rey getting the crowd going even more. The music stops and Rey looks down at Sheamus as the crowd quietens down.

Rey Mysterio: Hey fella, you might think that, but guess what? I've heard that so many times before an' come out on top. At Wrestlemania, I'm gonna do it again against you when I take your Intercontinental title.

Sheamus: Yeah, ya t'ink so do y'fella? I don't. You can try talkin' like a big man all y'want... de truth is I'm gonna kick y'teeth down y'throat, and I'm gonna love ev'ry second of it. Dis title's stayin' exactly where it is, or y'could walk on down here right now an' prove t' me you're any kind of t'ret t' me at Wrestlmania.

Mysterio thinks about it.

Sheamus: What's up Rey? I should o'known you wouldn't have the guts. You're just a coward like I t'ought.

Rey shook his head and the burst down the ramp, sliding in the ring and ducking a Brogue Kick from Sheamus before unloading on him with some stiff kicks to the body. Sheamus though fought back, shoving Rey back before nailing him with a thunderous lariat. He stared down full of contempt before pulling Rey up and firing him into the ropes, but Mysterio came back with tilt-a-whirl headscissors, sending Sheamus on to the second rope to a huge roar from the Canadian crowd. They were loving it as Rey then dialled up for the 619 before then running the ropes and connected with a 619 to another almighty pop. Sheamus fell back and hit the mat as Rey then stepped back in the ring and saw The Celtic Warrior's Intercontinental title. The Mexican picked it up and lifted it up in the air as "Booyaka 619" played again as a groggy Sheamus sat up looking on, absolutely furious as he tried to sit up. Mysterio then dropped the title and left the ring, high fiving the fans on his way back up the ramp, turning back to see Sheamus standing up about to burst with rage.

***

Raw (3 Weeks Ago)

Rey Mysterio
vs Jay Lethal
The Intercontinental Champion, Sheamus watched on intently from the outside as Lethal then stalked his prey for the Lethal Injection, a belly-to-back suplex lift into a neckbreaker, begging Rey to get up. Rey flipped back though and a pissed Lethal ran at him, into a drop toe hold on to the middle rope. Rey dialled up to a huge pop, ran the ropes and connected with the 619, then the West Coast Pop to secure the victory, but as soon as he was back on his feet, Sheamus slid in the ring and knocked him down from behind. The fans booed like mad with Rey's music coming to a grinding halt. He was dragged up and sent crashing hard into the turnbuckle pads. Lethal rolled out of the ring as Sheamus started banging his chest, red-faced with his sights set on the squirming Rey who struggled back up to his feet. As soon as he was up, The Celtic Warrior burst across the mat and nailed him with The Brogue Kick to even more heat. Sheamus just glared down intensely having taken Rey's head off with boos being thrown at him from all sides of the arena. "Written In Your Face" then played to more boos with Sheamus revelling in the heat from the fans as he left the ring, picking his Intercontinental title up off the apron with Rey flat out.


***

Raw (Monday Night)

Leticia Cline
is standing by backstage at the interview set. The camera zooms out, revealing Rey Mysterio standing there alongside Leticia in jeans and a T-shirt.

Leticia Cline: Rey we're now just a matter of days away from the Intercontinental Championship match between you-n-Sheamus at Wrestlemania. Later on we'll see him in action against your close friend Mystico. What are your thoughts going into your title match Sunday night?

Rey Mysterio: My thoughts are real simple. I know Sheamus thinks he's gonna win. I know he's not taking me seriously just like 29 other superstars didn't when I won the Royal Rumble three years ago, just like my opponents that night at Wrestlemania when I walked out World Heavyweight Champion. This year I'm gonna walk out a champion again when I beat Sheamus t' take his Intercontinental title. I admit he's had a great run, but it was better 'til he crossed me.

Into the shot walks the very confident looking Intercontinental Champion, Sheamus dressed to compete and he stares right at Rey, not intimidating Rey in the slightest.

Sheamus: Talk's cheap Rey. What happened t'ree years ago's irrelevant. It's what happens Sunday what matters. You said it y'self too. I've been on a roll since I came here...

Rey Mysterio: ... Until I eliminated you in the Rumble right?

That gets The Celtic Warrior hot under the collar.

Sheamus: Dat was a fluke-n-you know it. I guess I'll just have t' prove it Sunday night.

Rey Mysterio: Yeah you will.

Rey gives him the eyes and walks off past him. Sheamus turns round and gives Rey the daggers.

***

Non-Title Match
Mystico
w/Rey Mysterio vs Sheamus
As Sheamus then turned to face Mystico, the Mexican hit a springboard, only for the Irishman to catch him, holding on for a powerbomb, dropping him back first into the pads. Mystico didn't hit them all that hard, but Sheamus took a few steps back. As Mystico then staggered out of the corner holding his back, The Celtic Warrior burst at him, nailing him with the vicious Brogue Kick to secure the win to a whole host of heat from the fans. This time Sheamus forgot about Rey as he celebrated defiantly with the Intercontinental title, and when he did turn in Rey's direction, Mysterio was on the apron and caught him with a springboard senton to a huge roar. Sheamus's music stopped and he was reeling as he made his way back up, furiously going after Rey, walking right into a drop toe hold with Rey then dialling up for the 619, sending the fans wild. He exploded across the mat, off the ropes and connected with the 619, knocking Sheamus back across the mat. Rey then stepped back inside and "Booyaka 619" played as he looked down at Sheamus writing around with Mystico sitting up looking on.
*Match #5*



Intercontinental Championship
Rey Mysterio vs. Sheamus (c)

Last 10+ Minutes:
Rey watches Sheamus get back up and unloads with stiff kicks to the legs, now to the gut, forcing Sheamus back into the corner. The Mexican continues to pummel him with kicks to the body, but Sheamus responds emphatically, grabbing Rey, lifting him off his feet and turns to toss him into the corner instead. The Irishman lifts his boot up into Rey's throat, choking the challenger, but the ref steps in to count, and Sheamus relents eventually. Rey leans forward holding his neck, struggling to breathe, but Sheamus shows no sympathy and fires him hard into the opposite corner.

The challengers hits the pads hard against his back, and in runs Sheamus, into a pendulum kick counter from Rey. The fans respond with a pop as Sheamus staggers out of the corner with Rey climbing up to the top rope. The Celtic Warrior turns round and the challenger comes off the top for a DIVING CROSS BODY!..... Sheamus catches his opponent and drops him into a BACKBREAKER ON TO THE KNEE!!..... The Intercontinental Champion lets go of Rey and he falls to the mat with Sheamus kneeling down to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

The fans cheer as Rey kicks out, not pleasing the firey Irishman. He shrugs it off and grabs Rey's head as he stands back up, bringing Rey with him to fire him into the ropes. Sheamus ducks his head and Rey comes bouncing back to kick Sheamus square in the head. More cheers come from the crowd as Sheamus's head snaps back up and Rey follows it up with a LEG FEED ENZUIGIRI!!..... Sheamus falls flat on his face and Rey shimmies round as quick as he can, turns Sheamus over on to his back and hooks his leg for the cover with the crowd counting along too.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Sheamus gets the shoulder up! A lot of loud sighs come from the crowd and Rey looks disappointed as he leans back on his knees. Sheamus turns on to his side and to his knees, starting to crawl towards the ropes. Rey coolly makes his way back up, watching the champion get to the ropes and use them to help him get back up. Rey's itching to go at him, and as Sheamus turns against the ropes, Mysterio bursts across the mat at high speed to CLOTHESLINE HIM OVER THE TOP, AND HE TOO GOES WITH SHEAMUS AS BOTH MEN FALL TO THE FLOOR!!.....

Rey holds on to the top rope though and looks down at Sheamus as he tries to sit up. Mysterio turns to run across the apron, jumping up to the top rope, back to the floor as he takes a look back at Sheamus. The Irishman's back up and turns to see Rey on the top, walks towards the apron and Rey leaps up into the air, ASAI MOONSAULT TAKES DOWN SHEAMUS!!!..... The fans love it, cheering wildly as Rey stands up, getting them going some more as he dives back in the ring.

Sheamus crawls to the apron and drags himself back on it, rolling back in the ring to beat the count, just! Rey helps him up from his knees and tries for an Irish whip. It's reversed and Sheamus sends Rey into the ropes, but Rey comes back and counters with TILT-A-WHIRL HEADSCISSORS!!.... That gets the fans going but Sheamus is flustered as he frantically tries to get back up. Rey's up and jumps up from behind the champion on to his shoulders, VICTORY ROLL!! .....

1.....

2.....

.....

Kick out from Sheamus, disappointing some of the crowd. Both men try to get right back up with Sheamus walking towards the corner. Rey follows him in and dropkicks him in the face and Sheamus falls back against the pads, seated against them and Rey backs away into the opposite corner. He looks over at Sheamus and sets off at speed back across the mat, BRONCO BUSTER TIME!!..... The fans are eating it up as Rey stands back up, walking out of the corner with a rattled Sheamus dragging himself back up. He walks out of the corner towards the challenger and is met with a barrage of kicks to the legs & body. It puts him down on to one knee and Mysterio turns back to turn the ropes, coming back to Sheamus but the Irishman jumps up and nails him with a RUNNING DOUBLE AXE HANDLE TO THE FACE!.....

That puts the challenger down and the mood drops inside Wembley. It's a mean Sheamus right now as he stares down furiously at Rey shaking off the cobwebs as he tries to sit back up. The Celtic Warrior doesn't let him get back up of his own accord and drags him up off the mat. He scoops the Mexican up on to his shoulder and looks across the ring, now sets off across the mat for a RUNNING POWERSLAM!!..... Rey wriggles on the shoulder and slips down Sheamus's back, dropkicks the back and Sheamus falls forward into the pads. Rey follows in behind him and rolls him up.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Sheamus kicks out and more loud sighs come from the crowd. They're both desperate to get back up quickly and Rey's up first to run the ropes, and he comes running back at Sheamus into a BIG BOOT RAMMED DOWN HIS THROAT!!..... The crowd falls flat again and Sheamus smirks into the stands as he stands over Rey. The challenger's shaken now and The Celtic Warrior kneels down to bring Rey back up. He sends him hard into the corner and follows him in, driving his elbow into the Mexican's face.

He does it again, driving his elbow into Rey's neck repeatedly. Sheamus is a man on a mission right now and he lifts Rey off his feet and tosses him across the mat. The Intercontinental Champion is wrestling for control of the match and he climbs up to the second rope as Mysterio claws his way back up. He's up and turns into the corner, DIVING CLOTHESLINE FROM SHEAMUS!!..... The big man takes down the little man and goes for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

Kick out from Rey! It gets a cheer from the crowd but Sheamus isn't impressed. He's got a look of determination & anger on his face as he sits up. He brings Rey with him, lifting him up into a BEARHUG!!.....Oh oh, Rey's in trouble now as Sheamus squeezes the life out of him. The Irishman's hell bent on ending it now and making Mysterio give up. He doesn't though and tries to hold on, but it's not easy. Sheamus rags him from side-to-side too, making it even harder for Rey. The fans try to help him too, clapping & stomping their feet.

His arm comes back up, and he brings his left arm up too to hit Sheamus on both sides of the head, and again to break the hold. The fans cheer as Rey falls back towards the ropes. Sheamus is pissed and turns round, steaming as he glares at Rey. He runs right at him, into a drop toe hold on to the second rope. The fans go nuts and Rey dials up, getting the crowd even louder. Off he darts across the mat, hits the ropes and comes charging back, but Sheamus is back up and runs out at him, DIVING SHOULDER TACKLE FROM THE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION!!.....

There's some boos from the deflated crowd but Sheamus has a big smirk on his face as he leans back on his knees having dodged a bullet. He goes back to work though and turns Rey over on to his front, puts his knee in Rey's back and applies the CAMEL CLUTCH!!.....The fans are worried as Sheamus again puts Rey through it, torturing the challenger and making him fight to keep his title dreams alive. They support Rey again as he keeps to fight his hand off the mat but he's not going anywhere. He can't. Sheamus keeps him right where he wants him and shouts at Rey to "tap".

Mysterio doesn't quit though and fights with every little bit of fight he has to drag himself across the mat. He gets towards the ropes and the fans get even louder with Sheamus starting to panic. Mysterio gets within touching distance, reaches out and grabs the bottom rope to a huge roar from the Wembley crowd. Sheamus is livid and only lets the hold go at the count of four. He has to be ushered away from the ropes by the referee too as a battle scarred Rey leans against them. He uses them to help get back up with The Celtic Warrior watching him every step of the way, and here comes Sheamus, gunning for Rey, and Mysterio drops to his knees, pulling the top rope down and SHEAMUS TAKES A TRIP OVER THE TOP AND DOWN TO THE FLOOR!!.....

Rey breathes a sigh of relief and takes the time to get his breath back with the fans cheering. Sheamus hits the deck and slowly makes his way up to his knees. The Mexican watches and steps through the ropes on to the apron, watching his opponent pick himself back up. Sheamus makes it up but Rey runs across the apron, jumping off it for a SEATED SENTON TO TAKE SHEAMUS BACK DOWN TO THE FLOOR!!..... The fans absolutely love it and Rey stands back up soaking it in. He rolls back in the ring as Sheamus starts to make his way back up to his knees.

The Irishman crawls towards the apron as Rey locks & loads again. He turns back and runs the ropes, comes racing back for a BASEBALL SLIDE!..... Sheamus sidesteps it and Rey slides out of the ring. He lands on his feet and Sheamus grabs him by the neck & pants to toss him into the security wall. Rey crashes into it and falls to the floor with Sheamus glaring coldly at him. The Intercontinental Champion climbs back in the ring to break the count but slides right back out again.

He walks to the wall with Rey leaning against it, and the Irishman chokes him with his boot again. He's draining the life out of Rey but he relents and brings him right back up to toss him back in the ring. Sheamus follows him in and watches Rey struggle to get back up to his knees with Sheamus standing over him. The Celtic Warrior slaps him hard across the face and pulls him up, right into the IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER!!..... Rey's down again and Sheamus leans on top of him to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

A roar breaks out as Rey gets the shoulder up! Sheamus is pissed and shakes his head side-to-side, denied again by Rey's resilience. The champion stands back up, still angry as he looks into the stands, getting some heat thrown at him. He takes a look back down at Rey, seeing him stirring, and he decides to bring Rey back up. He drags him towards the corner and sets him up for THE HIGH CROSS!!..... Sheamus has Rey where he wants him and he lifts him high up in the air above his head, heads out of the corner but Rey wriggles around again and lands on his feet. Cheers break out and both men turn round in a flash with Rey hitting a back kick. Mysterio fights fire with fire and runs into the ropes with Sheamus walking after him as Rey jumps on to the second rope, SPRINGBOARD REVERSE CROSS BODY!!..... Rey hits it and takes Sheamus down for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Kick out by Sheamus! Up they both get in a flash and Sheamus throws a wild right, ducked by Rey, and the challenger jumps up into the air, FRANKENSTEINER!! .....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Sheamus kicks out, and up gets Rey in a flash, bursting into the corner as Sheamus too makes his way back up. He's reeling a bit but Rey's all the way up to the top rope. Sheamus is up and here comes Rey, MISSILE DROPKICK FROM MYSTERIO!!..... The momentum's swinging in Rey's direction now and he looks to keep it going, standing back up with Sheamus not far behind him. The champion's shaky on his feet though and Rey tries for an Irish whip.

It's reversed but Rey holds on to the top rope. Sheamus isn't happy and runs at him, into a raised boot. Again the crowd cheer as Sheamus is sent staggering away from the ropes with Rey stepping through them. He steadies himself on the apron, and as Sheamus turns round, Rey springs to life with a SPRINGBOARD SEATED SENTON!!..... Down goes Sheamus with Rey on top of him and the ref rushes across to make the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Kick out from the champ! Rey's right back up, followed by Sheamus. The challenger runs the ropes but Sheamus catches him as he comes back with an elbow lift to the face. He reaches down and brings Rey right back up, lifting him up for a side suplex, but Rey counters, driving forward on Sheamus's shoulder for a BULLDOG TAKEDOWN!!..... Sheamus lands on his face and Rey crawls across to the apron and under the bottom rope. He stands up on the apron and holds on to the top rope with Sheamus not moving. The Mexican springs to life again, literally with a SPRINGBOARD SPLASH ON TO SHEAMUS'S BACK!!..... Could that do it? Rey thinks so and turns Sheamus over to make the cover, hooking both legs with the ref & crowd counting the fall.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

Sheamus just gets his shoulder up! Rey drops his head, thinking he had it won there. We get a shot of the crowd and some of the fans can't believe it either. The fighting champion starts to sit up and Rey has to regroup. He makes his way back up to his feet and urges Sheamus to do the same. The Irishman gets to his knees and Rey turns back to run the ropes, comes back and Sheamus stands up, kicks Rey in the gut and DRILLS HIM WITH A SNAP DDT!!..... Rey's the one not moving now and Sheamus looks to take advantage, turning him over right away to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!!

A big pop comes from the crowd as Rey just manages to get his shoulder up! The fans are relieved, unlike Sheamus. The champ's pissed and stands back up, bringing Rey with him, keeping hold of his head and looking menacingly into the crowd before taking Rey down with a SNAP SWINGING NECKBREAKER!!.....Sheamus stands up with purpose, staring down intensely at Rey, and he slowly backs away from him into the corner. Rey starts to stir and Sheamus starts slapping his chest, psyching himself up to take his rival's head off.

The fans are shown looking full of worry again as Rey unwittingly claws his way back up with the fans trying to warn him. Mysterio makes it up, getting his balance and Sheamus is bursting to get at him, and as Rey turns round, Sheamus storms out of the corner for the BROGUE KICK!!!..... Rey ducks it and runs through off the ropes, hitting them to come back at Sheamus with a SPINNING WHEEL KICK!..... The fans cheer as Rey stands back up in a flash by the corner, turns to face the ropes, SPLIT LEG-MOONSAULT BY REY REY!!..... Is that enough? He reaches to the side and hooks the leg with the ref rushing to his knees to make the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Sheamus kicks out! It's not done yet and Rey takes it well. He picks himself back up again and steps on to the apron, climbing up to the top. Sheamus sits up though and sees Rey getting up there, and the champion reacts quickly, diving into the ropes, and Mysterio loses his balance, falling to sit on the top. The Celtic Warrior's a relieved man as he takes his time getting back up. He walks into the corner and lifts Rey off the ropes on to his shoulder. He turns to face the ring and runs out with Rey over his shoulder, RUNNING POWERSLAM FROM THE IRISHMAN!!..... Rey's slammed into the canvas and a determined Sheamus makes the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!!

Rey gets the shoulder up to the relief of the fans. Sheamus leans back not impressed and stands back up, staring down full of frustration at Rey, and the champ drops a flurry of frenzied elbows on his opponent. He's on the verge of losing it. He brings Rey back up and sends him crashing into the corner. Sheamus doesn't hang around and runs in at him for a splash, but Rey steps out and turns to run the ropes. Sheamus puts the brakes on, just, and Rey comes running back, DIVING CROSS BODY!..... Sheamus catches him, FALLAWAY SLAM INTO THE TURNBUCKLE PADS!!!..... The Celtic Warrior could have it won, but wait, he doesn't go for a cover. He drags Rey back up with him, pulling him away from the corner. He lifts him vertically up into the air, SUPLEX INTO A POWERSLAM FROM SHEAMUS, HOLDING ON FOR THE COVER!!! .....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

No!

Sheamus is furious, sitting up screaming "NO!" at the top of his voice with the fans' cheers echoing around Wembley. Rey tries to lift his head up off the mat. Sheamus is full of rage and he stands back up, bringing Rey with him. He sends him into the ropes and Rey comes bouncing back into a SLEEPER!!..... Rey's really up against it now as Sheamus tries to put him to sleep, and Rey's dropping off quickly. The fans panic big time and do all they can to help, getting behind him. He 's rapidly losing consciousness and the ref lifts his arm up, let's go, and it falls.

This could be the end! The ref lifts it for a second time, and again Mysterio's arm drops to his side again. Oh dear, this could be it! Here we go for the final third time... Rey holds on!! His arm stays up and the fans erupt as he finds the fight within. Sheamus is shocked and Rey fights away with elbows to the ribs. He escapes the hold and runs the ropes, comes back but Sheamus goes for the KITCHEN SINK!!..... Rey rolls through it and brings Sheamus with him, rolling him up.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Sheamus just kicks out and they race their way back up. Sheamus is riled up, gunning for Rey, wild clothesline misses, INSIDE CRADLE BY REY!!! .....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!!

Sheamus kicks out again, and up they both get with Rey running back into the ropes. He comes racing back and Sheamus runs out to take his head off with a THUNDEROUS LARIAT TO THE CHALLENGER!!..... That halts the challenger's momentum and the crowd have the energy sucked out of them as Sheamus slowly stands back up, not taking his eyes off of Rey. Mysterio's squirming around and the champion has evil intentions. He backs up away from him, watching intently as Rey struggles to get back up. There's a whole lot of concern for Rey now. You can feel the anxiety in the crowd as Sheamus gets ready to fly out of the corner. Rey makes it up, struggling to get his balance, and as he turns round, here comes Sheamus, BROGUE KICK!!!.....

It misses and Rey darts towards the ropes. A livid Sheamus turns and goes after him, caught with a drop toe hold on to the second rope and the crowd erupts. Rey's back up and bursts across the ring, off the ropes, back across and swings through the ropes, 619 CONNECTS!!!..... Sheamus is knocked back and Rey steadies himself on the apron with the fans jumping out of their seats. The end is near for Sheamus as Intercontinental Champion. He gets back up in a spin, turning to face Rey, WEST COAST POP TIME!!!..... SHEAMUS CATCHES HIM AND COUNTERS WITH A POWERBOMB!!!..... Rey's down & out and Sheamus kneels down to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!!

Rey gets the shoulder up and Sheamus flips out as the crowd cheer like crazy yet again. Sheamus slams his hands against the mat. He can't believe it. He sees Rey's eyes flicker and he lifts his head up off the mat. Sheamus flips and stands back up, bringing Rey with him. He holds him there on the mat and stares sadistically into the crowd. The champion lifts Rey up above his head for a gorilla press, keeping him up there and showing off his strength. Rey comes to life though and wriggles his way down, tracking back towards the ropes. Sheamus is shocked and turns to go after him, again walking into a drop toe hold on to the second rope.

Wembley goes wild again and Rey wastes no time in flying across the mat into the ropes, surges back across, 619 CONNECTS AGAIN!!!..... Sheamus is sent back and he falls on his backside. Rey senses this is it and the crowd are all up on their feet again as he gets ready to finish Sheamus, and the Irishman looks all over the place as he claws his way back up, turning into Rey's path. Here comes the springboard, REY COMING THROUGH THE LONDON SKY!!!..... SHEAMUS COUNTERS WITH A BROGUE KICK IN MIDAIR!!!..... HOLY SHIT!!!..... Rey is out. He's done! Sheamus falls to his knees and hooks both legs.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

YES!!

Lilian Garcia:
The winner of this bout, and STILL INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION... SHEA-MUS!.

That's it! Sheamus has defeated Mysterio and retained his title. What a win for The Celtic Warrior, right out of nowhere! He leans back and lets it all out with "Written In My Face" playing, and the fans are stunned. They can't believe it. The ref collects Sheamus's title and hands it back to him as he stands up. He grabs it and walks past the referee, heading straight into the corner, climbing up to the second rope and he throws it up in the air defiantly. He is loving it, as he should! He drops the title on to his shoulder and looks out into the crowd, revelling in the moment, nodding his head with a huge smug smile on his face.

Jim Ross:
I'm amazed King. I don't know if I should be because we've all been impressed by Sheamus, but that's a huge win f' him t'night over a former world champion in Rey Mysterio.

Jerry Lawler: I can't believe it either J-R. I think we all kind of expected Rey t' get the win. You've gotta give Sheamus credit though. He's pulled out a real shocker t'night.

Jim Ross: He absolutely has. Congratulations to him. This could be the making of him. It'll be a night Sheamus won't f'get for a long time!


*Video Recap*

Raw (6 Weeks Ago)

"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: 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.

"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: 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: 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.

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 me? 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.

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.

***

Smackdown (4 Nights Later)

"Metalingus"
A chorus of boos meets 'The Rated-R Superstar' Edge as he walks out to the stage, not looking too happy it would seem, barely looking into the crowd as he stomps down the ramp towards the ring. He picks a microphone up off the apron as he takes the steps, staring into the ring at Cena & Vince as his music is cut by the boys in the truck.

Edge: I gotta admit I kinda knew last week even though I won my match you were gonna pick someone else anyway. I don't know who but I had that feeling. Honestly, I'm with John. I'll get that chance soon enough anyway 'cause I've got another idea that'll make you really stand up an' take notice. Monday night on Raw I went there t' make my feelings known about Mick Foley getting in the Hall of Fame an' t' tell The Rock what I thought of him too. One thing I heard while I was there was these idiots chanting one more match at 'im. Well I'm gonna give them what they wanna see. I'm gonna go back t' Raw on Monday night t' challenge the so called great one to a match at Wrestlemania.

*Huge Pop*

Edge: Yeah, you might wanna see The Rock have one more match. The problem is if he accepts, it'll be a match he loses I guarantee y'that. Then Vince, you'll have no choice but t' give me a shot at the world title.

Edge slams his microphone down and turns round to leave the ring, stomping back up the ramp with "Metalingus" playing while Cena & Vince share a joke amongst themselves.

***

Raw (5 Weeks Ago)

Edge:
I think I've proven in my time here that I mean what I say, an' at Wrestlemania if The Rock accepts my challenge I'll prove it again. The only problem is that he won't even be here. He wasn't here when I came out here as far as I'm aware. Now he's this big time movie star he's got the busy schedule to use as an excuse, so don't get excited about seeing him at Wrestlemania 'cause it's not gonna happ. . .

"IF Y'SMELL, WHAT THE ROCK, IS COOKIN. . ."

The Rock
steps out on to the stage and the crowd erupts. It's deafening inside the arena as The Great One turns his head, looking into the stands, raising the people's eyebrow as Edge watches on unimpressed. The Great One turns to look down at the ring and heads on down there with Edge still watching him the whole way. The Rock steps inside and heads across the ring, brushing past the Canadian to climb up to the second rope, posing for the fans who continue to go nuts for the presence of The People's Champion.

The Rock: You hear that? The people are chanting The Rock's name, just as they were last week in my hometown of Miami when you, you sneaky son of a bitch decided t' cheap shot me with a microphone. There is however something else I need t' say that proves you are a coward. See The Rock heard you say just before I came out here that I have a busy schedule, and being a movie star you're absolutely right. The Rock does indeed have a crazy ass schedule, but admit it. You thought that would mean I couldn't turn up t' Wrestlemania an' kick your ass.

*Pop*

The Rock: I've got to admit myself, that was smart on your part t' cover your ass, but even though I have a crazy schedule, here I am t'night. There's also something else I heard last week. The people were chanting something over an' over, an' it went like this. . . ONE MORE MATCH, ONE MORE MATCH. . .

"ONE MORE MATCH, ONE MORE MATCH. . ."

The Rock: That's exactly what I heard, and even before I heard about this challenge, I thought about what they said. I thought about what it'd be like t' have one more match at Wrestlemania, not just any old Wrestlemania, but the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania in London England at a sold-out Wembley Stadium. Even Lady Gaga is gonna be there, but what you an' your humongous chin f'got was, even though I have this mad schedule, I'd already agreed t' be in London to induct my good friend Mick Foley into the Hall of Fame.

*Pop*

The Rock: Hell, even if I wasn't I'd happily take the time out to be at this huge event to compete in a match against a punk ass jabroni with no testicles like you, so yes The People's Champion accepts your challenge.

*Massive Roar*

"ROCKY, ROCKY. . ."


The Rock: At Wrestlemania in front of the millions. . .

"AND MILLIONS. . ."

The Rock: . . . of The Rock's fans, The People's Champ is going t' kick your candy ass all over Wembley Stadium, IF Y'SMELL ALALALALAUU, WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN!!

The Rock drops the microphone, grabs Edge and plants him with The Rock Bottom to an almighty pop. The fans love it, and as The Rock's music plays again, he heads back over to the corner and climbs on to the second rope, throwing his right arm up in the air. The fans eat it up as he poses there defiantly with Edge flat on his back. He steps down and heads over to the opposite corner, doing the same with the fans still cheering like crazy, all bringing a big smile to the face of The Rock.

***

Raw (3 Weeks Ago)

"Metalingus"
A chorus of boos breaks out as 'The Rated-R Superstar' Edge walks out to the stage with a smug smile on his face, stopping & looking out into the crowd with the ring set up for The Cutting Edge. Edge carries on down to the ring, shrugging off the taunts from the fans with a wry smile. He takes the steps quickly and enters the ring, still smug as he walks over to one of the stools and picks up a microphone from it. His music cuts and the boos ring around the arena, again all to the amusement of The Rated-R Superstar.

Edge: So here we are, finally, the long awaited return of The Cutting Edge.

*Heat*

Edge: And I think you're gonna love my guest t'night. Not only is he 'your' champion, he is the man that in three weeks I will beat at Wrestlemania... THE ROCK.

*Huge Pop*

Edge: Oh, you're looking forward t' seeing The Rock t'night?

*More Cheers*

Edge: Well guess what? The People's Champion didn't care enough about the people t' be here t'night... again.

*Major Heat*

Edge: Whoa don't take it out on me. It's not my fault The Rock's full of it or you're stupid enough t' buy into whatever crap he comes out with. The fact of the matter is, as full of crap as he is, you're even worse f' making him out t' be this big hero he makes you wanna believe he is. It's your fault f' feeding his ego. It's that ego that's the reason he's not here t'night. Instead he's still globetrotting ahead of his big 'premiere' this week. That's his priority, not you, not his people.

"You suck, you suck..."

Edge: Unlike The Rock though my priority is being here, being in this ring, the ring that in 20 nights in London England I will beat him in at Wrestlemania. That an' that alone is my priority. That's the only thing I care about, and because I wan' it more than The Rock, I'll be the one laying the smackdown on his candy ass at Wrestlemania.

*More Boos*

Edge: When that happens people all around will be talking about how The Rated-R Superstar didn't just beat The Rock but embarrassed him in front of 90,000 plus people on the biggest stage of them all.

***

Raw (2 Weeks Ago)

The Big Show & Rey Mysterio

vs Edge & Sheamus
Rey dialled up for the 619 but Sheamus slipped in the ring, distracting Rey, but Show stormed in and took him out with a clothesline. He followed him out with Rey looking on, but as he turned round, Edge was getting back up. He ran at him but Edge ducked underneath, ran through off the ropes and caught him with the spear to secure the win. Show looked on shocked from the outside and Rey rolled out of the ring as Edge got his arm raised, celebrating emphatically, and after everyone else had cleared away from ringside, he went after a microphone.
Edge: So I guess next week we'll be treated to the presence of The Great One.

*Big Pop*

Edge: Just so you know I can't wait because there's still one thing he needs t' do. See I signed the contract for our match at Wrestlemania a long time ago. He still hasn't. All we have is a verbal agreement. Next week if he actually intends t' face me in London he can sign it but I don't think he does. I don't think he has the guts t' get in the ring with me. I think...

"IF Y'SMELL WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN'..."
The crowd erupts as The Rock emerges from the back to the amazement of Edge in the ring. His jaw's dropped as he looks up at the stage to see The Rock hitting both sides, getting the already excited crowed even more excited. The People's Champion returns to the centre of the stage and has a little jig, getting warmed up to hit the ring, looking at Edge the whole time, and off he goes down the ramp. He slides in the ring and his music stops as Edge runs right at him, putting his boots to The Rock. The fans boo as Edge stomps all over him, and he pulls Rocky up to hammer him with a right hand, but The Rock blocks it and fights back, hammering away at Edge. He sizes Edge up for one final shot lifting his right hand up and looking up at it when Edge kicks him in the groin to a ton of heat.

A chorus of boos engulfs the arena as Edge looks down with contempt at The Rock who rolls around on the mat in agony. The Rated-R Superstar shows no remorse and he eventually retreats slowly to the corner, watching The Rock every step of the way back up. It's a struggle but he drags himself back up to his feet, and Edge stalks him for the spear and then explodes out of the corner, but Rocky sidesteps it. Edge puts the brakes on, shocked as he turns right into a Rock Bottom. The crowd erupts again and The Rock looks into the deafening crowd, standing over Edge and kicking him in the arm before signalling for The People's Elbow. He runs the ropes, comes back and drops the elbow on Edge to another massive cheer from the Texas crowd. They're chanting "Rocky" again as he stands back up soaking up the ovation, but he turns to walk over to the apron, calling for a microphone, and he gets one.

The Rock: You don't think The Rock has the guts? Next week bring your damn contract and The Rock will sign it, fly into London an' kick y'candy ass, IF Y'SMELL ALALALALAU WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN'.

Rocky's music hits again as he tosses the microphone away to hit the corner and pose for his fans, throwing his right arm up above his head, delighting the San Antonio crowd no end.

***

Raw (Monday Night)

Eric Bischoff
is standing in the middle of the ring, microphone in hand with a clipboard in the other.

Eric Bischoff: Ladies an' gentleman, please give a warm Boston welcome to The Rock.

"IF Y'SMELL, WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN'..."
The crowd goes nuts and The Rock hits the stage all pumped, going to both sides of the stage and looking into the crowd. They eat it up and he heads down the ramp with Bischoff clapping as The Great One enters the ring and hits the corner, throwing his right arm above his head. The noise is deafening and he steps down off the ropes to take it all in, loving every second if it and nodding his head. He turns round and shakes hands with Bischoff, and his music stops, there's a massive surge of "Rocky" chants.

The Rock: The Rock knows how excited the people are about the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania but there's something else you should know. The Rock's also excited about Wrestlemania. Oh yeah, The Rock can't wait f' this Sunday in London, t' walk down the aisle at Wembley Stadium into this ring-n-electrify the people the way only The Rock can.

"Rocky, Rocky"

The Rock turns to Bischoff and holds out his hand, looking at the contract, and he's passed it.

The Rock: ... and the moment The Rock signs this contract...

"Metalingus"
Out walks a smug looking Edge to a ton of heat and The Rock looks up at him, not too impressed with him at all, watching his every step down to the ring and as he steps inside and picks a microphone up off the apron. The Rock turns back and hands the contract to Bischoff again.

Edge: I've gotta tell y'Rock I was just planning on staying back there so I didn't have to listen to all this crap but I just had t' come out here-n-tell you to shut that ridiculously big mouth of yours. We don't need you anymore but you just waltz in back here like you still own the place. I've got news f' you... you don't, I do. This is my ring now, not yours. That's what you'll find out when... if you sign that contract.

The Rock: The Rock's confused. Why wouldn't The Rock sign that contract? Is The Rock supposed t' be afraid of getting in this ring with you at Wrestlemania? Let me tell you something. The Rock's been in this ring with the best this business has ever seen an' won. You Edge are not on that level. You can question The Rock's motives all you want...

Edge: ... You're damn right I'll question your motives. The last time we saw you in this ring was five years ago for Wrestlemania 20. Fast forward five years here you are for the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania. For the last five years I've bust my ass t' be the best in this company. I didn't do that to watch you walk back in here like nothing ever happened for one more big Wrestlemania pay cheque or to get some more attention f' your 'big movie'. If you really gave a rat's ass about this business or 'the people', you...

The Rock: ... It's got t' that time when The Rock needs t' tell you t' shut your mouth-n-know your role jabroni.

*Huge Pop*

The Rated-R Superstar isn't at all happy, staring furiously at The Great One.

The Rock: Like I was saying before you-n-that big mouth of yours cut The Rock off. You can question The Rock's motives all you want but never, never question The Rock's love for the people.

Again The Rock turns round to Bischoff and asks for the contract. He's handed it and grabs the pen with his back to Edge as he prepares to sign it, and does.

The Rock: You happy now? You wanna leave before The Rock kicks y'ass like he did last week? The Rock will gladly do it again for the people in Boston t'night who might've missed it last week.

Edge stares right at Rocky and then drops his microphone, turns round and leaves the ring to "Metalingus". The fans boo Edge as he walks away and Rock turns round to hand the contract to Bischoff, then shakes hands with him again. They share a joke but Bischoff panics and points to Rock to turn round, and he does with Edge sliding back in the ring bursting right at him. Rock turns in time and catches him with a Rock Bottom to a massive roar from the Boston crowd. He stands over him and looks out into the cheering crowd with Edge's music grinding to a halt. Rocky then bends down to pick up the microphone he dropped, again standing over Edge.

The Rock: In just six nights, The Rock returns t' Wrestlemania t' kick this son of a bitch's candy ass all over Wrestlemania, IF Y'SMELL ALALALALAU WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN'.

His music hits and Rocky throws the microphone down, then looks into the crowd and points up at the Wrestlemania sign looming above the ring, nodding with Bischoff watching on smiling. The Rock then hits the corners again, posing for the adoring fans, revelling in every moment as a groggy Edge's eyes begin to flicker, not knowing what's hit him.

***

Smackdown (Friday Night)
Josh Matthews is standing by backstage at the interview set. A very serious looking Edge is shown standing there alongside Josh as the camera zooms out.

Josh Matthews: Edge, we're now just two nights away from your match with The Rock at the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania. We saw The Rock make it official on Raw Monday night when he signed the contract. We also saw a Rock Bottom after he signed that contract. It looks like he's ready for his first match in five years. My question is are you ready for The Great One?

The Rated-R Superstar turns his head angrily at Josh.

Edge: Am I ready? Really Josh? I've never been more ready. We just heard John Cena talking about how ev'ryone's doubting him, well the same applies t' me. Even after five years without having a match, the people think The Rock's got this won already. He hasn't. Even at No Way Out six seven weeks ago the same idiots thought I was going t' lose at Christian all because he got some fluke win at Summerslam-n-eliminated me in the Royal Rumble. Look what happened that night. I beat him-n-gave him a concussion. If the people wanna put their blind faith in a guy who's not had a match in five years against someone who's as good if not better than anyone currently in this business they're in f' a shock like they were at No Way out when I beat The Great One in the biggest stage of them all. I might've won world titles the last couple of years but beating The Rock, a Hall of Famer will still be huge f' me. I'm not gonna lie about that, but I have t' win this match. I can't lose t' someone who's not wrestled in five years, even someone like The Rock. He's just gonna disappear after Wrestlemania. I'm not. I'm gonna be here. That's why I need t' win this match. That's why I will win this match, and when I have I'm gonna make sure I make the most of it by going after the world title again. That's where I should be. That's where I will be-n-no one will stop me, especially The Rock, if you smell what The Egde is cookin'.

Edge again stares at Josh and the camera zooms in n him looking very fired-up for Wrestlemania.
*Match #6*



The Rock vs. Edge

Last 15+ Minutes:
The Rated-R Superstar is feeling it now, believing he's in complete control as he watches The Rock pick himself back up, and The Great One is greeted with a stiff kick to the gut. Edge follows it up with a forearm shot to the face and sends him into the ropes. The People's Champ comes flying back off them, ducks a clothesline and runs through, hitting the ropes and coming back for a jumping clothesline to take Edge down. The people respond with cheers as both men make their way right back up to their feet. Rocky means business and sends Edge right back down with a scoop slam, runs back into the ropes, coming back to drop a leg down across the Canadian's shoulders.

The crowd are getting louder, and as their man stands back up with a steely look of determination, he urges Edge to do the same, watching him all the way up. Edge is rattled now and turns into a series of hard right hands with the fans cheering every single one of them. He puts Edge down but not for long. Rocky steps back and keeps his eyes on Edge as he drags himself back up. The Rock explodes with a clothesline, and another as Edge shoots back up with The Rock seizing control. The fans are loving it and he doesn't ease up, firing the Canadian hard into the corner. Edge's back crashes into them and he staggers out feeling the pain, and The Great One charges at him, nailing him with a hard clothesline. Down goes Edge and Rock drops to the mat too in a flash to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

Edge kicks out but Rocky isn't surprised. He's right back up on his feet and he lifts Edge's left leg, trying to lock in a single leg lock but as he turns, Edge kicks up at him, forcing Rock back across the mat towards the ropes. Edge picks himself back up as quick as he can as Rock turns back around and walks towards Edge. He grabs his wrist for an Irish whip but it's reversed and The Rock hits the ropes, running back into a SPINNING WHEEL KICK!..... Rocky hits the deck but not for long. Edge jumps back up and begs Rock to get up again too, eyes fixed on The Great One, and he turns round into a FLAPJACK FROM EDGE!!..... The Rated-R Superstar doesn't mess about and shimmies round to turn The Rock on to his back to make a cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

The Rock gets the shoulder up! The fans cheer but Edge gets right back up again, headed to the corner as a groggy Rock sits back up. He tries to get to his knees and does as Edge climbs up to the top rope, focused on his opponent. Rocky's not too sure where he is and he turns to face the corner, MISSILE DROPKICK BY EDGE!!..... The Canadian comes off the top and takes Rock down again, trying for another cover.....

1.....

2.....

Kick out by The Rock. Edge isn't happy but shifts round on the mat quickly, turning Rocky on to his front. He jumps on The Rock's back and locks in a CAMEL CLUTCH!!..... Edge is going all out, trying to make The Rock tap. The fans don't want to see that and show their support right away for The People's Champ. He holds on but it's not easy with Edge desperate to make him give up, ignoring the fans' reaction. Rocky begins to fight it more, trying to drag himself across the mat and to the ropes. There's panic all over Edge's face as he tries to hold on, and he stands up to thrust back down into Rocky's back before locking the hold in again.

He's hell bent on getting this wrapped up now and the fans' support gets even louder as a suffering Brahma Bull reaches his hand out to get to the ropes, but he's not even close. He has to reach deep down inside to drag himself across the mat again, this time getting so close to the ropes. Edge holds on for dear life but Rock thrusts himself forward to grab the bottom rope to a huge pop inside Wembley. Edge can't believe it and ignores the ref's order to let the hold go, only doing so at the count of four.

Edge stands back up in a huff and walks away furiously from the ropes. He turns back and watches The Rock drag himself back up using the ropes. The Canadian snaps and runs right at him, into an extended elbow. It sends Edge staggering back with some cheers coming from the stands. Rocky bursts away from the ropes as Edge turns into a clothesline. The fans are getting behind Rocky again as he watches Edge get back up and sends him into the ropes. Edge runs them and Rock ducks his head as Edge comes back, flipping over Rock for a SUNSET FLIP!! .....

1.....

2.....

.....

The Rock kicks out! The fans are relieved and cheer as both men rush back up to their feet, and it's Edge who reacts first with a RUSSIAN LEGSWEEP!!..... Down goes The Rock again as Edge looks to keep the match in his control. He runs into the corner and steps through the ropes again as Rocky picks himself back up. Edge climbs all the way up to the top, staring intently at The Rock, and as he turns round, Edge steps off the top once more, DIVING CLOTHESLINE TAKES DOWN THE ROCK!!.... The Rock's down again and Edge tries to end it with another cover.....

1.....

2.....

Another kick out from The Rock! Edge isn't surprised at all and in a flash he shimmies round on the mat, applying BODYSCISSORS TO THE PEOPLE'S CHAMP!!..... Edge is up for this, desperate to get the win, and he tries to squeeze the life out of his opponent. Chants of "Rocky" come from the crowd with most inside Wembley desperate to see The Rock escape. It's not looking good though. Edge has wrapped him up tight and isn't letting up at all. Rocky's struggling for breath and throws his arm out, nowhere near to the ropes. He's fading fast and the fans see it. Some are shown starting to really worry. The fans respond again, chanting his name, and there's a response from The People's Champ.

He tries to lift himself off the mat and fight his way towards the ropes. It panics Edge, shocked to see him fight back. Fight though he does and he drags himself sideways across the mat, getting closer & closer. You can feel the nerves coming from the crowd as they watch, seeing Rock get closer, and he reaches out desperately, and he grabs the rope to a big pop from a very relieved crowd inside Wembley Stadium. Edge only lets go at the count of four, pissed that he had to and he stomps all over The Rock as he stands up, but the referee gets in way, holding him back. The Rated-R Superstar is fired-up beyond belief. He watches Rocky get back up and brushes past the ref to get to him.

He tries to pull Rocky away but The Great One hammers him with a right hand, and then another, and another with the crowd responding to each punch. They're loving this as Rocky knocks Edge back across the ring. The People's Champ fires him into the ropes, back body drop from The Rock! Edge hits the mat and the fans continue to cheer as the momentum swings towards The Rock. Edge to his credit drags himself back up, but he walks right into a snap suplex. Here comes The Rock, flipping back up to a massive pop inside Wembley. It's deafening as he watches Edge getting back up, and The Rock's ready to pounce. Up gets Edge, turning into The Rock's path.

Rocky scoops him up off his feet and sends him flying behind with a FALLAWAY SLAM!!..... The Great One's in charge now and he looks to keep it going, standing right back up and turning round to watch Edge struggle up to his knees. Rocky locks & loads, urging Edge to get back up. Edge is struggling now as he makes it back up, struggling for balance as he turns again into The Rock. The Canadian is fired into the ropes, comes running back, and SAMOAN DROP!!..... More cheers come from the crowd and The Rock shimmies round to make the cover with the crowd counting along with the referee.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Edge gets his shoulder up and sighs come from the crowd. Rock sits back up looking slightly disappointed, thinking he could've had it won there. He takes a mini breather and makes his way back up with Edge sitting up too. Rock goes to give him a helping hand but Edge hammers him in the gut as he gets to his knees. It winds The Rock and Edge jumps up, stomping him in the gut. The Great One grabs his boot though, keeping hold of it with a smile on his face. Edge panics and The Rock spins him round, kicks him in the gut and drills him with a SNAP DDT!!..... Edge's head hits the mat and The Rock shimmies round, turns the motionless Edge on to his back and makes the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Edge just manages to get the shoulder up. Only just though, and The Rock sits up looking like he thought he had it won there & then. The crowd are stunned too. They thought that might've been it as well! It's not though and Rock climbs back up, followed by a dazed Edge. Rocky has to help him up and he sends him into the ropes, but the Canadian grabs them and holds on. The People's Champ runs at Edge, into a raised boot that knocks him silly. He staggers away with The Rated-R Superstar following him out straight away, grabbing his head from behind, pulling him down into A REVERSE DDT, AND HE HITS IT!!..... Edge fights back and he might have him. He thinks he might and reaches across to hook the leg.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Shoulder up! The fans cheer as The Rock again lives to fight another day. Edge sits up with fire in his eyes, not appreciating the crowd's reaction either. He gives them filthy looks too as The Rock's eyes flicker and he tries to sit up on the mat. The Rated-R Superstar takes his time to standing up, and he walks into the corner with The Rock starting to make his way up too. Edge steps through the ropes and climbs up to the top rope, steadying himself as The Rock does the same on the mat, turning to find Edge, DIVING CROSS BODY!!..... Edge got all of it and takes The Great One down for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Kick out by Rocky! The fans have something to cheer again and both Edge & The Rock climb their way back up to their feet. Edge is rattled and throws a right hand, ducked by The Rock and he catches Edge with a SIDE SUPLEX!..... Down they go and there are more cheers for The Brahma Bull as he gets back up, followed closely by Edge, but Rocky heads to the corner this time. He climbs on to the second rope and turns back, just as Edge follows him in and nails him with a right hand. The Rock falls, seated on the top rope, and Edge looks to take advantage, taking a quick breather before climbing on to the second rope, then on to the top, HURRICANRANA OFF THE TOP BY EDGE!!.... The Rock hits the deck along with Edge, and the Canadian crawls across the mat on his hands & knees to hook the leg and cover The Rock.....

1.....

2.....

.....

The Rock gets the shoulder up in time! Edge isn't pleased at all and the fans' reaction doesn't help either. He turns and sees The Rock coming round, and it pisses him off even more. Edge is pissed and slowly stands back up with a sadistic look on his face. He backs away from The Rock, stalking him in the corner, dropping to his knees and calling for him to get up. There's tension in the air as the fans look on full of worry with Edge desperate to strike as he looks ready to explode out of the corner. Up gets The Rock, trying to get his balance as he turns round and Edge storms out of the corner for the SPEAR!!!.....

Leapfrog by The Rock! Edge slams on the breaks and both men turn in a hurry, SPINEBUSTER FROM THE ROCK!!..... Wembley explodes as The Rock jumps back up, standing over Edge, looking full of intensity. He looks into the crowd and slowly pulls down his elbow pad, then throws it into the crowd to a huge roar. They know what's coming and The Great One signals for it, runs the ropes, coming back for THE PEOPLE'S ELBOW!!!..... No! Edge rolls away from it. Up they both get and they turn into each other with Edge kicking Rocky in the gut, grabs his head, EDGECUTION!!!..... Down goes The Rock and Edge throws himself on top of him to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Rock finds a way to hang on in there and the fans cheer him as Edge sits up pissed. He shakes his head in frustration but stands back up, walking round to The Rock's feet. He lifts his legs up off the mat and stops, looking into the stands with a sick smirk on his face. He looks back down and goes for a SHARPSHOOTER!!!..... The Rock kicks him off, putting Edge back on his ass. They both drag themselves back up and The Rock kicks Edge's legs from under him, reaching down to grab them and lock in the SHARPSHOOTER HIMSELF!!!.....

The crowd erupts again as The Brahma Bull makes Edge scream out in pain straight away. The Rated-R Superstar's in real trouble and the fans know it. So does he! He reaches his arm out but he's got a long way to go to get to the ropes. The People's Champion isn't letting him get anywhere either. He got it locked in tight and doesn't look like he's going to ease up, leaning back and putting pressure on the Canadian's lower back. More chants of "Rocky" come from the crowd as Edge fights to survive, and it looks like he might tap.

He's thinking about it, just managing to keep his hand off the mat. He keeps it up and digs deep to find more fight. He starts to respond and can drag himself across the mat. The Rock's shocked but keeps his cool, not panicking as Edge drags himself closer with every bit of fight he has, worrying the fans, and he reaches out to grab the ropes, and he gets it. The energy's drained from the fans as Rock clings on to the ropes for dear life. The Rock has to let go, reluctantly doing so with some of the fans booing in the stand.

He stands up, watching Edge slowly make his way back up using the ropes looking really unsteady on his feet with Rock ready to strike, bending his knees, desperately waiting for Edge to walk into his path. The Canadian's in a bad way and the crowd are making a racket as he turns & hobbles away from the ropes, and Rocky grabs him for the ROCK BOTTOM!!!..... Edge panics & counters quickly, driving his elbow into the side of The Rock's head, breaking the grip. He puts The Rock in a spin and Edge thinks fast, EDGE-O-MATIC!!..... The Rock's back on the mat and Edge leans forward to lift both legs for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

The Rock throws his shoulder up to another pop from the fans! Edge isn't happy at all and slowly stands back up, staring down at The Great One, and he taunts him, stalking him for his own finisher, the Rock Bottom. The fans boo The Rated-R Superstar and try to warn The Rock as he drags himself up off the mat, oblivious to what's waiting for him. Edge has a sick smile on his face, looking forward to beating The Rock with his own move. Up Rocky gets and he turns round, into THE ROCK BOTTOM!!!.... Is that it? Edge thinks so and some of the fans can't look as he hooks the leg and the ref makes the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!!

The Rock lifts his shoulder up and Edge sits up in shock with the fans going nuts! He shifts back on his backside, shocked that The Rock escaped that one, looking on in amazement. Grudgingly he stands back up and back over to The Rock, and he kicks his shoulder, now he pulls off his elbow pad to throw it into the crowd. They boo the crap out of the Canadian as he turns to run the ropes, running back for THE PEOPLE'S ELBOW!!!.... ROCK FLIPS UP, GRABS EDGE AND HITS THE ROCK BOTTOM!!!..... It's deafening as Rocky hooks Edge's leg and makes the cover with the fans counting too.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

Edge gets the shoulder up and the fans are devastated. Rock sits up looking shocked this time, shaking his head, laughing too, surprised Edge managed to get his shoulder up. The Rated-R Superstar tries to sit up and The Rock makes his way back up, retreating to the corner, watching his opponent claw his way back up. Edge struggles back up to his feet and The Rock roars out of the corner, taking Edge down with a SPEAR!!!..... Edge is tackled down and this could be it as The Rock again wastes no time in making a cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!!

Shoulder up and Edge denies The Rock again! Rock takes it well again with a smile on his face as the fans die down too, deflated again by Edge hanging on in there. The People's Champ stands back up and brings Edge up with him, looking to finish him off. He fires Edge into the ropes, bouncing back for a SPINEBUSTER!!..... Edge is flat on his back with cheers ringing round Wembley Stadium and The Rock stood above him.

The end could be near as The Rock turns to run the ropes, jumps over Edge, runs through, coming back for THE PEOPLE'S ELBOW!!!.... Edge rolls out of the way of it towards the ropes. More sighs come from the crowd as both men drag themselves back up to their feet with Edge using the ropes, staring furiously at The Rock. The Great One turns towards Edge and the Canadian bursts across the mat, taking him down with the SPEAR!!!..... He got it and Rock's down! Is that it? Edge thinks so and hooks the leg for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!!

Huge cheers break out as The Rock just, just gets his shoulder up. Edge is gobsmacked, sitting up and staring in nothing but hope at the referee. He's told it was two and he has to accept it. Reluctantly he does and he stares down with contempt at The Great One. He stands back up with a face like thunder, stepping back into the corner, urging the squirming People's Champion to get back up. He's gearing up for another spear and the fans try to warn The Brahma Bull as he tries to get back on his feet, struggling to do so, holding his ribs as Edge storms out of the corner, and Rock turns, thinking fast with a drop toe hold, and he quickly locks in a CROSSFACE!!!.....

Edge thought he was seconds away from the win but he's seconds away from defeat as The Rock wrenches away at his face with the fans cheering again. Edge is in no man's land and has to fight for his life again with Rocky desperate to make him tap here & now. It looks like he might. Edge is hanging on for dear life, desperately keeping his hand away from the mat to tap. The ref's right there asking him but Edge holds on and starts to fight it, slowly but surely clawing his way across the mat. The Great One keeps it locked in but Edge is fighting with everything he has to get himself to safety, to the ropes, and he makes it with one last ditch grab to the bottom rope.

Wembley falls flat again as the ref tells The Rock to let go, and he does. He stands up and backs away showing some disappointment this time as Edge throws himself on to the ropes. Slowly he drags his way up them with Rock stalking him for another ROCK BOTTOM!!!..... Edge is clueless, just fighting to get up on his feet. He gets up and turns to walk away, into The Rock's path, and he grabs Edge across the upper torso. Edge counters with elbows, slips behind him and rolls The Rock up holding his tights too, and the ref can't see that as he counts the fall.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!!

Kick out at the last second by The Rock! More cheers come from the stands as both men race back up to their feet and Edge acts first with a kick to the gut. He pulls Rock's head into him and lifts him vertically up into the air, hitting a SUPLEX SLAM INTO THE MAT!!..... Rock's sent crashing forward into the mat and Edge turns him over quick as he can to make another cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!!

The Rock gets the shoulder up again and the fans breathe another sigh of relief. Edge is pissed again and makes his way back up, heading to the corner and the top rope with The Rock squirming on the mat. Edge looks down intensely at him and leaps off, DIVING LEG DROP!!..... It misses and The Rock rolls away to cheers from the fans. Both men drag themselves back up off the mat with the fans chanting "Rocky", and he responds, hammering Edge with hard right hands.

The People's Champion is feeling it and turns back to run the ropes, but Edge runs out to meet him with a BIG BOOT!!..... Edge responds and stares down furiously at him, now backs away to the corner again, urging him up once more. Slowly The Rock picks himself back up, shaking off the cobwebs with the fans starting to worry again, and here comes Edge racing out of the corner for the SPEAR!!!..... Rock sees him coming and helps send him running into the corner. Rocky follows him in and rolls him up.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Edge kicks out! Again they race back up to their feet and Rocky ducks a wild clothesline with a SAMOAN DROP!!..... NO, EDGE COUNTERS INTO A DDT!!!..... That might just do it and Edge turns to throw himself on top of The Rock for a cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!!

The fans rejoice as The Rock just, only just manages to get his shoulder up. Edge sits up, full of frustration at failing to put The Rock away again. He can't believe it, starting to question himself it seems. He slowly stands up and taunts The Rock again, stalking him for The Rock Bottom. The fans' nerves are obvious as a very groggy People's Champion tries to make it back up, and he's struggling to do so with The Rated-R Superstar ready to finish him this time. The Rock's up and turns into a ROCK BOTTOM!!!..... Rock counters with elbows, and sends Edge into the ropes, running back into a BIG BOOT!!.....

Edge isn't down for long but Rock's on him with a RUNNING THRUST LARIAT!!..... Edge crawls into the corner, feeling the effects of that one, and he climbs up the pads, covering what he's doing, leaning forward on to the ropes and removing the top turnbuckle pad. The Rock and the ref can't see as he drops to his knees and slides it out of the ring despite the crowd trying to point out what he's doing. Up gets Edge and he turns to face The Rock, runs right at him, into a kick to the gut and a DDT from The Great One!!!..... Edge isn't moving and is flat on his front. The Rock turns him over and goes for the cover with the fans again counting along with the ref's count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!!

Somehow Edge holds on, throwing his shoulder up just as the ref's hand came down for a third time. Rock leans back and looks shocked for the first time, tired too as he takes in some deep breaths. He takes his time getting back up, and he bends down to bring Edge up with him, sends him into the ropes, SPINEBUSTER BY THE ROCK!!..... Edge is flat out, not moving a muscle as the crowd go crazy yet again as The Rock stands up over Edge, crossing his arms before running the ropes, jumping over Edge, running through and back, PEOPLE'S ELBOW!!!..... Edge rolls away and it misses. The Canadian crawls into the exposed corner as Rocky gets to his knees. Up gets Edge, and as he turns round, The Rock is up and he runs right at Edge who steps to the side. The Rock runs right into the exposed turnbuckle chest first and Edge turns to the side to run the ropes, comes back and connects with another SPEAR!!!..... He takes down the Rock and hooks both legs for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

YES!!!

Justin Roberts:
The winner of this bout, THE RATED-R SUPERSTAR, ED-GE!.

He's got it and "Metalingus" hits to a ton of heat inside Wembley with Edge leaning back on his knees and throwing his arms up in the air in sheer ecstasy. He stands up and gets his arm raised with such a smug look on his face. He smirks at the crowd that continue to boo him, looking down at The Rock coming round. It makes him more smug and he throws his arms up again standing above The Rock, now turns to leave the ring, heading back up the ramp smiling wildly, turning back to throw his arms up once more as an angry Rock sits up looking back. Edge turns and walks to the back and his music cuts as The Rock stands up to a rapturous reception from the fans. His music plays and he takes in the ovation, still disappointed but acknowledges the reaction of the fans.

Michael Cole:
What a match that was, and what a victory that is f' Edge, with a little fortune I admit, but it's a win nonetheless over The Rock.

Jim Ross: Certainly it was fortuitous but Edge gave it ev'rything he had, as did The Rock. It was a real fight. It's just a real shame it ended the way it did.

Jerry Lawler: And we're not gonna hear the end of this as far as Edge is concerned.


We get a glimpse backstage in the locker rooms of the WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels & Triple H, both getting ready for their WWE Championship match later on in the main event, both looking incredibly focused.


'The Rated-R Superstar' Edge is shown walking through the back, towards Josh Matthews at the interview set, and Josh tries to catch his attention.


Josh Matthews: Excuse me, Edge, could I get a few words from you about your win over The Rock just now?

The Canadian stops, turning to look at Josh.

Edge: You wanna few words? I can do a hell of a lot better than that Josh. I said I could and would do a hell of a lot better than 'the people' thought I would against their hero t'night. No one took me seriously going out there. They thought The Rock would turn up t'night, lay the smack down on my candy ass, but that didn't happen did it? I said I had t' win-n-would win. That's just what I did. The people can kiss my ass, and I may not be The People's Champion, but after that t'night you can bank on someday soon Edge being called champion again.

He stares right at Josh, letting him know he means it as the camera zooms in on the very serious face of The Rated-R Superstar.







*Lady Gaga Special Live Performance*

*Video Recap*

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.
*Match #7*



World Heavyweight Championship
Special Guest Referee: 'Stonecold' Steve Austin
Randy Orton w/Mr. McMahon vs. CM Punk (c) w/Homicide

Last 15+ Minutes:
Orton's looking groggy as he makes his way back up by the ropes with Punk's eyes fixed firmly on him, and the World Champion runs right at him, taking him over the top with a hard clothesline. The Viper hits the floor to a mixed response from the divided UK crowd. The Chairman of the Board is a worried man now as he looks up at a very confident CM Punk. The Benchmark turns and smirks at Vince for a second before watching Orton try to stand back up on the floor. Punk's not taking his foot off the gas and turns back to run the ropes, hits them and flies across the ring, THROUGH THE ROPES FOR A SUICIDE DIVE!!.....

Punk takes Orton down and the challenger falls back into the security wall with the crowd again split. Punk stands up smirking again as he looks down at Orton, then at Vince, causing more concern for him. Punk turns back and nails Orton with some stiff kicks to the chest with The Viper sat against the wall. Punk steps back and brings Orton back up with him, tosses him in the ring and slides back in himself. He stands up and lifts his arms up in the air, getting another mixed response from the London crowd. Vince looks disgusted and Punk revels in it, now urges Orton to get back up.

He does but it's not easy for the challenger, and Punk strikes again with a series of stiff kicks to the gut and chest as Orton slumps forward. The Viper falls to one knee and the World Champion turns back to run the ropes, but Orton jumps to life, up into the air for a HIGH KNEE LIFT TO THE FACE OF PUNK!..... There's some boos as well as some cheers as the champ hits the deck. He picks himself back up and Orton's on him, nailing him with a series of rapid forearm shots, knocking Punk back and off balance. There's encouragement from Vince on the outside and Orton turns back into the ropes, comes off them to take Punk down with a FALLING CLOTHESLINE!.....

That was a hard shot from the challenger and he stands back up to more cheers mixed in with some boos again looking fired-up. He shouts at Punk to get up too, and he does, walking right into a SLEEPER FROM THE VIPER!!..... Orton locks it in and Punk can't escape it! Vince is watching closely, so serious, hoping Orton puts Punk to sleep, and he is. Punk's fading fast and his body slumps slightly to the side. He's going and Austin has to check, lifting the champion's arm up into the air and letting go. It falls with no response from Punk.

Here we go again and Austin drops it for a second time, and it falls to Punk's side. We're moments away from a new World Heavyweight Champion with Vince licking his lips. The fans watch with baited breath as for a third & final time Austin lifts Punk's arm up and let's go... Punk responds! He's got fight left in him and he keeps his arm up to save his title, for now! Vince is pissed and Orton has to focus. Punk fights back with elbows to the gut, breaking the hold and putting Orton down on one knee.

The Benchmark fights fire with fire and runs the ropes, comes back off them, STANDING DROPKICK, PICTURE PERFECT FROM RANDY!!..... Vince punches the air on the outside and breathes a sigh of relief. Homicide's looking stressed again as both men pick themselves off the mat with Orton intense, kicking Punk in the gut and hooking his arms, GUTWRENCH ELEVATED NECKBREAKER FROM ORTON!!..... That had to hurt. It could do it, and Orton thinks so too as he shifts round and hooks both legs for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Punk gets the shoulder up! There are some cheers but a lot of boos too as Orton sits back looking frustrated. Vince too as Austin signals the two count. Punk rolls on to his side. He's hurt and Orton sees it. He shifts round and hammers Punk in the back, now locks in some BODYSCISSORS!!..... Punk's got a fight on his hands now to keep his title with Orton falling back on to the mat to squeeze the life out of his opponent. Vince is loving what he's seeing as a serious as ever Homicide walks round on the apron looking anxious, staring into the ring at The Viper. The challenger has Punk in agony again.

The champ's being tortured but manages to hold on with Austin asking him if he wants to give it up. He has to dig deep to hang on in there and he lifts his feet up off the mat, using them to drag himself across the mat towards the ropes. It's a fight though and Orton holds on, but Punk gets closer with Vince looking worried he might get to the ropes, and he does, placing his foot on there. Austin starts the count for Orton to break the hold, and he does. The Benchmark looks in bad shape now and The Viper is composed as he takes his time standing back up. He doesn't take his eyes off of the struggling World Champion, and Punk uses the ropes to help get back on his feet.

He's looking in real danger now and Austin checks on him, getting short shrift from Punk who brushes past him to walk out wearily into Orton and a SWINGING NECKBREAKER!!..... Down goes Punk again, but to his credit he rolls on to his side and tries to claw his way back up. Orton's feeling it now, knowing the momentum is his, and he calmly stands back up, bringing Punk with him, spinning him round and pulling his head into his body, OVERDRIVE FROM THE VIPER!!..... Punk's not moving a muscle and Orton turns himself to turn Punk on to his back too, hooks the leg and Austin drops down to make the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Shoulder up from Punk again! It's met by another split reaction from the crowd as Orton sits up trying to remain calm. Vince isn't though, desperate to see Punk beaten. Punk opens his eyes and he looks like he doesn't have a clue where he is right now. Orton turns his head and stares at Punk, and there's a look of intensity in the eyes of the challenger. He shimmies round on the mat and turns himself on to his front, knees against the mat, and he drives his fists into the mat too. The crowd sense what's coming and they start chanting "RKO" as the intensity builds on the face of The Viper. Punk slowly gets to his knees, not knowing what's waiting for him.

Vince leans on the apron, watching closely as The Viper prepares to strike. Up gets an unsteady Punk, and he turns round, and Orton jumps up into the air for the RKO!!!..... Punk pushes him into the ropes though and Randy grabs them, holding on to them. A desperate but weary Punk runs at him, into an extended elbow. Punk's sent staggering away from the ropes and Orton follows him out, but Punk turns round to nail him with a LEG LARIAT!!.... There's still fight left in the champion and it draws some cheers from the fans, but most fall flat, as does Vince on the outside with Orton down on the mat.

Neither are down for long though as they drag themselves back up. Punk's still weary but reaches deep inside to fight for his life & title. He does just that and hits a back kick. Orton's head slumps forward and Punk grabs it to bring it down into his knee. Orton falls back on to the mat and Punk takes a few steps back, staring at Orton as he sits up, but Punk runs at him, SHINING WIZARD FROM THE CHAMP!!..... That registered alright and now Vince is more worried as Punk shifts round on the mat to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Orton gets the shoulder up this time and Vince can breathe a sigh of relief. Punk gives Austin a dirty look as he signals the two count, but The Benchmark goes back to work, focusing on the job in hand. He brings The Viper with him and fires him into the corner. Orton hits the pads and Punk flies in, JUMPING UP FOR A STEP-UP ENZUIGIRI!!..... It hits and Punk backpedals out with a shaky Orton staggering out into his path.

The champ stomps him hard in the gut, grabs his head and pulls it into his body. There's a smug smile on Punk's face, looking down at a very worried looking Vince before running into the ropes, jumping on to the second for a SPRINGBOARD TORNADO DDT!!!..... Holy shit! Orton got drilled head first into the mat. There's some concerned looks in the crowd, as well as on Vince's face. Punk smiles, confident that's it as he shimmies round to hook the leg and make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

...... 3?

NO!!!

Orton, just gets the shoulder up! There' are a lot of cheers in the arena but some boos too as a pissed off Punk sits up staring in shock at Austin. The Rattlesnake stands up signalling the two count again but Punk doesn't believe it and stands up too. He walks towards Austin and questions the count, getting real short shrift from Austin. Stonecold has none of it and walks past him. Punk though, grabs him by the arm and spins him round, lifting three fingers in Austin's face. Austin smirks and gives Punk one finger to look at, flipping him the bird to an almighty pop.

There are cheers of "Austin" as a groggy Orton comes round on the mat. Punk stares furiously at Austin, trying so hard to keep his composure in check. Somehow he manages it with Vince looking on, not sure what's going on. Punk turns his head and sees his opponent trying to get on to his knees. He gives Austin the eyes one more time before turning back to go after Orton, and the champ signals for the Go To Sleep! It could be lights out for the challenger now as boos ring round the arena with some "CM Punk" chants too.

There's nervous tension in the air too as the oblivious St. Louis native makes it up and turns to face Punk, and the champ ducks down to lift Orton on to his shoulders for the GTS!!!..... No, Orton slides down his back and shoves Punk forward hard into the ropes. Punk's shocked and comes back off the ropes into a SNAP SWINGING POWERSLAM FROM THE VIPER!!..... More cheers come from the crowd, as well as some boos again with Vince just avoiding a coronary by the looks of things.

Both men drags themselves back up as quick as they can and Orton kicks him in the gut, pulls Punk's head into his body, lifts him vertically up into the air and walks into the ropes, SLINGSHOT SUPLEX FROM ORTON!!..... Punk's back on the mat and in trouble as the challenger seizes control once more. He's back up and goes to Punk's feet, lifting up his left leg and turning to lock in the FIGURE FOUR!!..... No, Punk counters and kicks up at Randy, pushing him back towards the ropes. The Viper puts the brakes on and turns back, going right after Punk, who sits up and rolls Orton into an INSIDE CRADLE!!.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Orton kicks out! We hear a pop from the fans and both men rush back up as quick as they can. Punk strikes with a driving knee to the gut, putting Orton on his knees. The champion runs behind him into the ropes as Orton tries to get back up, but Punk comes running back with a ONE HANDED BULLDOG!!..... Punk's coming back and Orton landed hard on his pretty little face. He's not making any attempt to get back up, staying face down on the mat, setting off a light above The Benchmark's head as he stands back up.

He looks down at him and walks towards the corner, climbing up to the second rope with his back to his opponent, and he heads up all the way to the top. There are cheers coming from parts of the crowd as Vince looks on a very worried man. Punk takes a look back at Orton, and he's still not moving, and here comes Punk..... MOONSAULT FROM THE WORLD CHAMPION ON TO ORTON'S BACK!!..... Is that enough? Punk thinks so and turns Orton over on to his back as quick as he can to make a cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Orton gets his shoulder up! Punk leans back on his knees and runs his hands through his head, frustrated again by his opponent. Vince again takes in a deep breath as we see Orton lifting his head up off the mat. Punk takes a quick look at Austin, still not impressed with The Rattlesnake as he makes his way back up. Orton tries to do the same and he's given a helping hand by Punk. The Viper's sent crashing into the pads and Punk follows in for the JUMPING HIGH KNEE SMASH!!..... No, Orton steps out and Punk jumps into the pads!

More cheers come from the stand, and Orton grabs his head before he falls, and drags him round from facing the ropes, lifting Punk's feet up on to them. Punk's on real dangerous ground as the crowd erupts, watching Orton fight with real intensity, staring into the crowd before drilling Punk with the SPIKE DDT!!!..... That's it! Punk's done! Vince is like an excited schoolgirl on the outside as he watches Orton turn the deadweight that is Punk on to his back with the fans making a real noise, split between cheers & boos as Orton hooks both legs for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NOOOO!!!

So close but Punk manages to get the shoulder up to the shock of Vince, the fans & Randy. Randy just stares in disbelief as Austin again signals his count. Orton throws his head down into his hands. He thought the title was won there as an edgy Homicide watches on in Punk's corner. He's the calmest man inside Wembley right now as the lights start to come back on for Punk but he looks in deep deep trouble now, like there's not much left. He's there for the taking and Orton knows it. He stands up staring down coldly at him and he menacingly retreats into the corner, holding on to the top rope with both hands, one either side as he watches Punk sitting up, struggling to do so.

Orton's itching to erupt out of the corner with the fans on their feet going nuts. Punk gets to his knees, and here comes Orton for the PUNT TO THE HEAD!!!..... Punk pulls his head back and jumps up, catches Orton with a back kick to the gut, DOUBLE UNDERHOOK BACKBREAKER TO FOLLOW UP FROM THE CHAMPION!!!..... Great resolve & counter from Punk. Orton's on his back and Punk throws himself on top of him for the cover with Austin racing across to make the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Shoulder up! Orton hangs on in again and Punk sits up pissed, not surprised this time that Orton clings on to hope. Vince nods his head, keeping the faith, but wait! Punk shifts round and locks in the ANACONDA VICE!!!..... Quick thinking from the champ, and Orton has to really fight now to have any chance of keeping his title dream alive. It is deafening inside Wembley and Vince is stunned. There are desperate chants of "Randy" as Punk rips away at Orton's face, laughing at Vince who's looking right at him. Punk's loving this as Austin asks Orton if he wants to quit, but he doesn't and clings on for dear life.

He's in no man's land though, nowhere to go right now. Can he fight it? He keeps that hand off the mat and tries to fight the hold, staying in there with split chants now of "Let's Go Orton" & "CM Punk". The crowd are so into this, and Orton responds by dragging himself across the mat, slowly but surely with every little bit of strength inside his body. Panic appears on the face of the champion as he fights to keep the hold in and Orton away from the ropes. He can't stop Randy though as he drags himself closer to the safety of the ropes, and Vince is screaming at Randy to get there.

The Viper itches & claws towards them, and gets there with one final desperate lunge of the arm to grab the bottom rope. Austin starts the count and the fans are cheering, some booing as a livid Punk only lets go at four. He stands up in sheer frustration and walks away from the ropes shaking his head. He's livid. He thought he had it there and turns back to see Orton dragging his way up the ropes to get back up. The Benchmark regains his composure, locking & loading on Orton, watching him stand up and turn away from the ropes, walking right back towards Punk and a ROUNDHOUSE KICK!!.....

The Viper falls in a heap, flat on his back, absolutely knocked out, but Punk doesn't go for the cover. He stares down with contempt at Randy, now walks over to the apron and steps through the ropes. Vince looks confused as Punk walks across the apron and climbs up to the top rope. There's still no movement from Randy as Punk points up to the heavens like 'The Macho Man' Randy Savage, and he leaps off to a big roar for a DIVING ELBOW DROP!!..... It connects and Punk goes for the cover right away.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!

Orton gets his shoulder up! Punk leans back shaking his head again as most of the capacity crowd cheer. It's almost too much for The Chairman of the Board to take on the outside. Punk stands up and he's had enough. He brings Randy up too and lifts him up on to his shoulders, GTS TIME!!!..... Vince panics and jumps on the apron. Austin goes over but Punk turns to see him there and he lets go of Randy, putting him down rather gently. Punk walks over and like Austin, tells Vince to get back on the floor. Vince just stares at Punk and can be heard telling him he hopes he loses the title. Orton's getting back up though and walks up behind Punk, INVERTED HEADLOCK BACKBREAKER TAKES PUNK DOWN!!..... Punk's down and Orton goes straight for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....


No!

Punk kicks out but he's not looking too good now as The Viper slips back on his hands & knees, stalking his prey for the RKO!!!..... Homicide jumps up on to the apron this time as Punk sits up. Orton turns round, as does as Austin. The Rattlesnake walks over and orders him to get down to, but the Brooklyn native argues with him. It's not wise and Orton stands up and runs at him, knocking him off the apron with a raised knee. That gets a cheer from the crowd, but Punk's getting back up. Orton turns round and walks towards him, into a kick to the gut and a STUNNER OUT OF NOWHERE FROM PUNK!!!..... Punk thought on his feet and it could pay off with a stunned Vince too on the outside only able to look on as Punk makes the cover with Austin making the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NOOOO!!!

My god, Orton only just survived this time by getting his shoulder up. Punk sits up looking up to the sky, maybe for guidance as Orton's eyes begin to flicker. Vince is breathing so heavily on the outside, absolutely caught up in the emotion right now. Punk has no choice but to get back to work, and he does. He takes his time getting back up to his feet, and he reaches down to drag Randy back up, getting no resistance from the challenger. Randy's sent into the corner again, and Punk takes his time before running across the mat, nailing Orton with the HIGH KNEE SMASH!!.....

Punk holds on to his head and turns round, runs out of the corner for the BULLDOG TAKEDOWN!!..... Orton pulls back and pushes Punk forward. Punk manages to stop in his tracks and turns back, runs at Orton into an RKO!!!..... No, Punk shoves him this time, into the pads! Randy hits them chest first and turns round winded, into the GO TO SLEEP!!!..... Punk got it! He dropped Randy's head on to his knee and that has to be it with the fans on their feet, watching as Austin counts the fall with Punk hooking the near leg.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

Vince puts Orton's foot on the rope and Austin sees it. Punk turns round not knowing what's going on. Vince can't deny it and Austin walks over to the apron and orders Vince to leave ringside. Punk is fuming, realising what's happened. He stands up and gets in Austin's face, demanding to give him the match right now. Austin blanks him and leaves the ring to make sure Vince leaves ringside, and he does, walking back up the ramp with no remorse, staring back furiously at an also irate Punk.

The World Champion is enraged, and as Austin gets back in the ring, he has another go at him, demanding he do something as Orton slowly makes his way back up to his feet looking shaky though. The Rattlesnake infuriates Punk even more by standing up to him and putting him in his place. The Benchmark is pissed, and he gives up arguing, turns round and Orton's there, jumping up, and HE HITS THE RKO!!!..... Punk's down and the fans are back on their feet watching as Orton turns him over quick as he can with Austin rushing down to make the count with the fans counting too.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NOOOOOO!!!

Unbelievable, Punk got his shoulder up! There's mixed emotion from the crowd again as even Homicide breathes a sigh of relief in Punk's corner. Orton sits up gutted, biting his lip. Punk comes round and crawls across the mat, and Homicide walks round ringside, grabbing Punk's title and he slides it into the ring towards him. Austin sees it and stands on it quickly. He picks it up and leaves the ring to hand it back to the timekeeper, and he orders Homicide away from the ring with Orton looking on. The crowd erupt again, but Homicide gets in his face and shoves The Rattlesnake. There's a huge collection of gasps from the crowd, and Austin sn-iggers, then kicks Homicide in the gut and stuns him on the floor!

That takes care of Homicide, and Austin slides back in the ring with just Orton & Punk left to battle it out. Punk sits up and The Viper goes after him, pulling him up, but Punk counters, grabbing Orton by the waist and he turns to send him crashing into the pads. Orton falls on to them but he tries to get back up, as does Punk, and he turns to nail Orton with a ROUNDHOUSE KICK TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD!!!..... Orton falls flat on his face and Punk rolls him away from the ropes and on to his back, going for another cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!

Orton gets his shoulder up again, getting another pop from the crowd! Punk sits up again not impressed at Orton's resilience. The World Champion turns on to his stomach and taunts Orton, pounding his fists into the mat as he watches him try to get up. There's a lot of boos going round Wembley for Punk with some cheers too as the challenger tries to claw his way back up with Punk lying in wait. Punk's got his eyes fixed on Orton and he lifts him up off his feet on to his shoulder for the GTS!!!..... Orton slides down though and pushes Punk into the ropes. Punk grabs them and holds on though. Orton's not happy and runs right at Punk, into a raised boot.

It knocks Randy in a spin and he falls forward on to one knee with his back to Punk. The champion steps through the ropes on to the apron eyes locked on Randy again as The Viper drags himself up from his knees. Punk's desperate to strike and holds on to the top rope, watches Orton turn round and he hits a SPRINGBOARD FOR AIR PUNK!!!..... NO, ORTON COUNTERS, JUMPING INTO THE AIR FOR AN ALMIGHTY RKO!!!..... Holy shit that's it! Punk is out and the fans know it. They're going nuts, cheering and jump out of their seat as even Austin looks on in shock. Orton quickly shimmies round and hooks both legs to make the inevitable cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

...... 3!!

.....

NO!!!!

Punk somehow, somehow gets his shoulder up! No one inside Wembley can believe it. How in the name of God did he escape that? Randy & Austin look at each other in absolute disbelief. Austin can't believe he counted to two. Orton shakes his head and signals it was a three. Austin looks like he's apologising to him but makes it clear it was two. Orton shakes his head big time and has to stand back up, but as he looks down at Punk, the champion still isn't moving on the mat. Orton looks into the deafening crowd who are loving it. Homicide starts to stir on the outside and Austin sees him starting to get back up. The Rattlesnake goes right after him, grabs him by the back of the neck & shirt to send him crashing into the steel steps!

The crowd love it, and as he slips back in the ring, Punk starts to come round, but he's barely able to move. The eyes come over the challenger and The Viper retreats to the corner again, sights set firmly on Punk, watching him struggle to even get to his knees. The fans are still on their feet watching as Orton takes one big final breath in before running across the mat and taking a huge swipe of the right boot at Punk's head, AND THE PUNT KICK CONNECTS!!!..... Huge cheers echo around the arena as Punk's head drops to the mat. He's done this time, surely? Orton drops to his knees, turns him over and makes the cover, hooking both legs as Austin counts the fall.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

YES!!!

WE HAVE A NEW WORLD CHAMPION!!!

Justin Roberts:
The winner of this bout, and NEW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION... RANDY OR-TON!.

"Voices" blasts out to a huge pop from the Wembley crowd with Orton dropping his head into his hands while Austin collects the world title. Orton stands up and is handed the title by The Rattlesnake as Punk rolls over to the apron and out of the ring. He throws it over his shoulder and Austin lifts his hand up into the air to another big pop. Orton drops the title into his hands and takes a long look at it, very emotional as he hits the corner to thrust it up into the air with Austin clapping behind him. The Viper soaks up the ovation and steps down to walk across the ring to do the same in the opposite corner when Vince walks out from the back to applaud. He walks down the ramp with Orton stepping down again, waiting for Vince and The Chairman of the Board extends his hand to him, and Orton shakes it. Vince nods his head at him and now at Austin before turning back to leave the ring, looking over at Punk sitting up on the floor in bits, devastated, but he sees Vince grinning at him, and Punk is seething.

It brings Vince great satisfaction as he turns and walks back up the ramp. Austin walks over to the corner though and calls for something, holding his right hand up, and he's tossed a can of Budweiser, and he calls for another. He gets them and turns back to Randy, snaps one open for him and passes it to the new World Champion. Austin opens his and toasts Randy, smashing the cans together and downing them together in the middle of the ring. Austin turns round and calls for more. He gets them and he passes one to Randy before taking his and leaving the ring, turning back to salute The Viper who salutes Austin too and they drink at the same time. Orton throws the can down and walks over to the ropes in front of Punk and lifts the title defiantly up into the air, pissing Punk off even more as he sits up on the floor with confetti coming from the above and pyro going off too as our new World Champion enjoys the moment!

Michael Cole:
What an incredible match that was, and there we have it folks, our new World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton, in what was one unbelievable fight. How CM Punk kicked out of that huge RKO I'll never know, but the contest was effectively done there.

Matt Striker: Absolutely. I don't think anyone here could believe their eyes when Punk got his shoulder up after that. He was in no position to continue after that though Michael. Randy Orton retained his composure and finished the match off to become our new World Champion.

Michael Cole: Clearly we have a very happy new champion, but Mr McMahon also will be thrilled. I suspect however it might take CM Punk a while to get over his defeat. No longer is he the World Heavyweight Champion.


Leticia Cline is standing by backstage at the interview set.

Leticia Cline: Ladies-n-gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, the WWE Champion, and now Hall of Famer, The Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels.

The camera zooms out and reveals the WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels standing alongside her looking very calm indeed.

Leticia Cline: Thanks f' joining me Shawn. We're getting closer-n-closer to our main event where you'll defend your WWE Championship against Triple H but I have to ask you about the rumours that have been running wild all weekend that you plan to retire after your match t'night whether you win or lose. I spoke with Triple H earlier and he said that...

Shawn Michaels: ... I can guess what Hun'er had t' say, that he believes I think that when I step foot in that ring t'night he's gonna end my career anyway so I'm going to retire t' save face? Well I hate t' disappoint him but that couldn't be further from the truth...

Leticia Cline: ... Because you planned to retire anyway?

Shawn Michaels: Did I say I was retiring? Have I missed something? These rumours are just that. Nothing's changed since a few weeks ago when I said that once again as I have the last few years that I've considered my future. Each of those times The Heartbreak Kid has soldiered on. Some would say I've become even stronger. Last year I walked into Wrestlemania the World Heavyweight Champion-n-carried on the next year still a world champion. This year it's a diff'rent title but I intend to walk out of Wrestlemania t'night still a world champion like this time last year. Being WWE Champion means more than you would believe t' me. To hold this title gives me so much confidence, not that I need much more if you ask some people but it does. I've always believed in myself but it makes you feel even better about yourself. That's why Triple H's theory about me being scared for my career is beyond ridiculous. I can walk down to that ring knowing full well he will not end my career. He may well beat me, you never know but he won't beat me within an inch of my life like he says he will. I'm a big boy. I can take a good beating, don't worry about that. I came here f' one reason-n-one reason only, to retain the WWE Championship on the biggest stage of them all. Mr Wrestlemania is ready. I have my family at ringside in this special stadium which I've been looking forward to coming back to so much. I didn't come here to lie down to Triple H. If he thinks he's gonna run The Heartbreak Kid over t'night he's in for one hell of a shock.

The Heartbreak Kid turns to the camera.

Shawn Michaels: You better be ready Hun'er because The Showstopper, The Main Event, The Icon's comin' for ya. You want this title? Take a close look 'cause that's as close as you're gonna get Jack when you're lookin' up at the London sky after tasting some extra sweet sweet chin music.

Leticia Cline: Well I think I speak for most people in wishing you luck t'night but can you confirm this will be your last match here t'night?

The Showstopper gives her a wry smile.

Shawn Michaels: I'm afraid not. One way or another you'll find out soon enough.

Leticia Cline: Okay thanks Shawn. Good luck again t'night.

Shawn Michaels: Thanks.

The WWE Champion gives her another smile and turns to walk away out of the shot in confident mood.



*Video Recap*

Raw 2 Months Ago (19/1/2009)

The Undertaker & John Cena
vs. CM Punk & Homicide

It came down to Cena & Punk, and after hitting a running knee strike in the corner, Punk went for a running bulldog out of it, only for Cena to counter and shove Punk forward, right into the referee and knocking him down. He stayed down too and as a shocked Punk turned round, Cena walked out and caught him with the F-U. The fans were cheering, but there was no-one to count the fall. Homicide then jumped off the apron and grabbed a steel chair before sliding in the ring. He went right after Cena, but Cena caught him with a right hand. Homicide picked himself back up with Taker stepping over the top rope too. He ran at Homicide and clotheslined him back down, and this time he dropped the chair which Cena picked up. Punk sat up though and pushed Cena back into Taker, knocking The Dead-Man down onto one knee. Punk stood up and aimed a stiff kick at Cena, but he sidestepped it, and then turned round to swing the chair at Punk, but the World Champion ducked and Taker walked right into it, just like last night when Tazz nailed Cena.

Taker fell to the mat and Cena looked on in shock and dropped the chair, but Punk quickly turned him round to lift him up for the GTS. The fans booed but Cena quickly slipped down and got Punk up for another F-U when Homicide stood back up. Cena put Punk down and ran at Homicide to clothesline him over the top, staring down at him as Punk approached from behind to roll him up, using the ropes as leverage as well as holding Cena's shorts with the ref conveniently back in the land of the living to make the count, giving Punk a cheap win. The World Champion quickly slipped out of the ring with "This Fire Burns" blasting out to a ton of heat. Cena stood up, seriously pissed as a smug Punk collected his title as Homicide picked himself back up. They walked round the ring to the ramp with Punk laughing at Cena and then the crowd with Cena watching their every step. Punk turned round on the ramp and lifted his title into the air defiantly. Cena watched furiously, much to Punk's amusement as Taker sat up behind Cena, and as Punk & Homicide headed back through the curtain, Cena turned round and got a death stare from an angry Undertaker, letting Cena know just how angry he was as Raw came to a close.


***

Smackdown Last Month (6/2/2009)

John Cena, The Undertaker & Randy Orton
vs. CM Punk, Triple H & Chris Jericho
Special Guest Referee: 'The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels

The Viper had none of it and hit an RKO through the announce table on Triple H to a huge roar from the Melbourne crowd. They loved it as Michaels then checked on both Orton & Trips who were barely moving, just as Punk dragged himself back on the apron with a steel chair in hand he got from under the ring. Michaels didn't have a clue, and as Taker was getting back up, Cena turned his head back to the action and tackled Punk in time. Cena then grabbed the chair for himself and lined up Punk, but as he swung it at him, he ducked like he did on Raw two weeks ago with Cena again nailing Taker by mistake with the chair. Taker fell back to the mat with Cena in shock, but he turned to see Punk go for a roundhouse. This time Cena ducked and dropped the chair before sweeping Punk's leg and applying the STFU to another massive pop with some boos too. Punk was screaming out in pain, trying to hold on, not that Cena was the legal man. Michaels turned his head and saw what was going on and slid back in the ring, clearly thinking Cena was the legal man as he tortured Punk. Punk eventually tapped and H.B.K. called for the bell, confusing Cena but he got on with it, getting his hand raised. "My Time is Now" hit and Michaels went back to check on Orton who was moving and Trips who started to open his eyes. Punk rolled out of the ring and Cena posed for the crowd as Taker sat up behind him with a face of fury. As he then stood up glaring at Cena, Cena turned round and realised he might be in trouble. He walked over to Taker and tried to apologise, but Taker had none of it and grabbed him by the throat to chokeslam him down to the mat. The fans loved it and Taker turned to the side, looking at Michaels who was still by the wreckage as Orton & Trips were sitting up, then some boos came from the crowd as Jericho slipped back in the ring unbeknown to Taker. He then turned, confused by the boos, turning into a Codebreaker from the self proclaimed best in the world. A ton of boos broke out as Jericho stared down at Taker, and then towards Michaels as "Break Down The Walls" played. Punk sat up on the floor and looked in the ring to see Jericho standing over Taker, as did H.B.K. as Smackdown came to a close.


***

From No Way Out Last Month (7 Weeks Ago)

"My Time Is Now"
The crowd erupts to a very mixed reception for John Cena as he walks out into the arena, not saluting the crowd as he heads down the aisle very low key, guilty even. . . Cena gets to the ring holding a microphone and his music cuts, bringing out of the boos as he stands in the centre of the ring with those angry boos being thrown at him as well as some cheers from the younger & more sympathetic members of the crowd.

John Cena: I'm not gonna waste any time here. It's a big night f' me included but there's something that I just had t' come out here an' say. . . Friday night on Smackdown as I'm sure you all know I was part of a six man tag team match, an' one of my partners was The Undertaker.

*Big Pop*

John Cena: Unfortunately not f' the first time I accidentally hit The Dead-Man with a steel chair, but let me repeat that word accidentally. I get why Taker's mad an' I don't blame 'im. I just wan'ed t' come out here t'night an' apologise f' what happened a couple of nights ago as well f' what happened on Raw the other week. I want Taker t' know that in no way whatsoever did I mean to do what I did. Taker, I hope you can accept my apol. . .

*GONG*

"Rest In Peace"
The lights are out and the crowd are going nuts as smoke blows around the aisle and The Undertaker emerges from it, getting an even louder reaction from the Vegas crowd. Looking as menacing as ever he makes his way down to the ring, eyes focused on the ring and the man inside it, and as he takes the steps, he brings the lights on to another big roar from the fans as a growingly more concerned Cena watches on. Taker steps through the ropes, eyes locked firmly & menacingly at Cena, and The Dead-Man walks right towards him. Cena takes a big gulp as he looks up at Taker as the music stops, tension aplenty in the ring as Cena expectantly appears to be waiting for a reaction from the phenom staring coldly at him.

***



Final Elimination:
The fans love it as an unwitting Triple H lifts his head up off the mat, and Taker gives him a massive helping hand. He pulls up off the mat and scoops him on to his shoulder for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!. . . . . It's deafening but Trips fights for his life and slips down Taker's back to safety, then pushes him forward into H.B.K. The WWE Champion takes a tumble and stays down, looking like he clashed heads with the shocked Taker, but Trips takes advantage by dropping on to one knee and low blowing The Dead-Man from behind to a ton of heat.

The fan boo the hell out of him as he stands up without a care in the world looking down at Shawn out cold and Taker writhing around. The Game cracks a wry smile and leaves the ring to look under the apron, pulling out his sledgehammer to even more heat. The Vegas crowd make a right racket as he slides back in the ring, eying up Taker as he tries to make his way back up. Michaels is still out of it, face down on the mat as an intense Triple H locks & loads on the unsuspecting phenom when all of a sudden a big pop breaks out and John Cena charges down to the ring.

He slides in to the ring, catching Trips off guard and tackles The King of Kings down to the mat. The fans cheer Cena this time and as he stands up, he picks up the sledgehammer Trips just dropped. Looking like he's trying to make it up to The Undertaker, Cena gets ready to take off The Game's head with his own weapon as he makes his way back up with Taker doing the same behind him. Cena's bursting to take his head off and runs at him, DRIVING THE SLEDGEHAMMER IN TO TRIPS' FACE, BUT HE DUCKS AND TAKER WALKS RIGHT IN TO THE SHOT!!!. . . . . Trips breathes a sigh of relief as Cena looks down stunned at Taker laid out thanks to him again.

The Game grabs Cena's shoulder and spins him round, right into a PEDIGREE!!!. . . . . The sledgehammer falls to the mat and Trips kicks it out of the ring, then kicks Cena to the apron before dragging the dead weight that is Taker up to his knees, struggling to do so as Michaels starts to stir. The fans boo like mad as the former WWE Champion gets set to get the rematch he craves at Wrestlemania against the man who took his title in the Royal Rumble. Taker's helpless and Trips sets him up, then sends him spiralling in to the mat courtesy of a PEDIGREE!!!. . . . . Taker's not moving and The Game rolls him on to his back as H.B.K. lifts his head up off the mat to see Triple H making the cover. Michaels drags himself across the mat and makes the count to a chorus of boos. . . . .

1. . . . .

. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!!!


***



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!


***

Raw The Next Night (9/9/2009)

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 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 4 Nights Later (13/2/2009)
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.

***

Raw (6 Weeks Ago)

"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: 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?

*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.


***

Smackdown (6 Weeks Ago)

John Cena
hits the stage to a huge reaction, largely positive despite a few boos and he stands there taking it in, looking into the crowd nodding his head. He salutes the fans and then bursts down the ramp into the ring, sliding in to another huge response from the Mobile crowd. He soaks it up and his music stops as he gets the fans going even more, just by looking into the stands. He nods in approval again before walking over to the apron to get a microphone, then walks back in a good mood tonight for sure.

John Cena: Well I guess it's official. The speculation, the rumours, the confusion, they're all gone. Now we now that in five weeks at the 25th anniversary of the biggest event in the sports entertainment calendar, it will be John Cena versus The Undertaker.

*Big Pop*

John Cena: This isn't about two guys beating the hell out of each other because we hate each other's guts. It's not about trying t' get the world title from CM Punk. It's about one thing an' one thing only. . . the challenge it presents. You don't need me t' tell you that throughout his incredible career, incredible doesn't do The Undertaker justice when it comes to what he's done at Wrestlemania. In fact it's about what he hasn't done. . . lose. In 16 matches he's never been beaten. That, that's just crazy.

*Pop*

John Cena: F' anyone t' achieve that goes way beyond impressive. 16 an' 0 at Wrestlemania, it's just crazy thinking about it. It's not like we've not known. The number's been growing f' years. We've talked about it f' a long time. F' a long time now people have said that when it comes t' Wrestlemania The Undertaker is invincible. I respect the streak, but I believe in myself too. I also believe in taking on a challenge. That's why I had t' do this. T' beat The Undertaker you have t' have so much heart. That I've got. As I'm often told, you're not a good wrestler John. Hey, they might be right, but one thing I know how t' do is fight an' I never give up.

*Mixed*

John Cena: That's what it'll take to end the streak. I sure as hell am not gonna back away from it. I respect it but I don't fear it. I don't fear anything. This is going t' be the biggest most challenging fight of my life, but that's what drives me. Do I think I'm going to end the streak? I don't know. Do I think I have what it takes to beat The Undertaker an' end the streak? You're damn right I do.

***

Raw (5 Weeks Ago)

John Cena
vs. Triple H
Trips pulled him up from his knees into place for the Pedigree, but Cena reacted quickly, sweeping Trips' legs and holding on to them. He turned slightly and catapulted The King of Kings into the turnbuckle pads. Trips hit them face first, and as he staggered back round, Cena turned too, lifted him up off the mat and planted him with the F-U to another massive roar inside the XL Center when the lights went out. The roar got even louder as the tron started to flicker. Cena stood up confused looking at it as a video collage of The Undertaker hitting the tombstone on all his Wrestlemania victims with a number, all the way from 1-16 accompanying them, before the tombstone to Cena at No Way Out ended it with 17-0 flashing across the tron. The video ended in a flash and the lights came back on with Cena turning to look at the crowd to get their reaction by the looks of it, not appearing to be too worried by it. He was unaware though of Triple H getting back up behind him, and when he turned round with a smile on his face, he was stomped in the gut and Trips drilled him with the Pedigree. He went straight for the cover and got the three to a ton of heat. He got his arm raised by the referee to "King of Kings" with a look of immense intensity, not showing any satisfaction whatsoever. He then hit the corner, climbing up to the second rope, throwing both arms up in the air and back as Cena sat up shaking his head, clearly not impressed he let The Undertaker's video distract him.


***

Raw (4 Weeks Ago)
A deafening reaction, mixed with cheers & boos engulfs the arena as John Cena steps out to the stage more relaxed than normal, looking quite laid back indeed, taking in the response before saluting the crowd and walking down the ramp, not charging down as normal... We go back to the arena and Cena's stood in the ring holding a microphone. His music cuts and it brings out the cheers & boos again, bringing a smile to Cena's face.

John Cena: It's four weeks 'til Wrestlemania an' four weeks 'til I step inside this ring with The Undertaker. Now I'm guessin' you all saw what went down last week. There's no doubt in my mind I was about t' wrap up my match when f' the first time I experienced something ev'ry one who's stepped in t' the ring with The Undertaker at Wrestlemania has. F' me it was the first time I experienced the famous Undertaker mind games first hand. He caught me by surprise but that's it Dead-Man. You didn't get inside my head, you didn't scare me one bit.

*Some Boos*

John Cena: Also, you don't need t' remind me what you've done at Wrestlemania. We all know what you've done at Wrestlemania. You're 16 an' 0. You're undefeated. I've never questioned that. I've showed The Undertaker nothing but respect the last few weeks. I've been honest, I've said how tough a challenge it's gonna be but it's one I wanna take on. The odds are against me an' if you ask me, no one's ever gonna get close t' the record Taker's got at Mania. What I will say is this. In four one-on-one matches at Wrestlemania, all title matches by the way, I'm four an' 0.

*More Boos*

John Cena: I'm not saying it matches up t' what The Undertaker's done but it goes t' show that I've got what it takes t' give him a fight this year. I've shown I can beat the best on the big stage in the main event of Wrestlemania on numerous occasions. I've never been one t' play mind games an' I don't mean this t' sound disrespectful but that's something The Undertaker can't say... My advice, f'get the mind games. You really want some? Come get some.

*Mixed*

Cena looks up at the stage and the tron flickers to a shot of The Undertaker in a dark location, bringing a huge cheer to the arena with Cena watching intently.

The Undertaker: Your words should be chosen more carefully John. Until you walk through the gates of hell you have no idea of the fear that will engulf your soul. A chill like nothing before will send shivers down your spine. Ultimately like ev'ryone before you, you will fall and become another victim. You John will rest in peace.

*Big Pop*

"Rest In Peace" hits and more cheers come from the crowd as Cena stares up at the tron, not fazed as the cold eyes of The Undertaker loom large on the tron.

***

Raw (3 Weeks Ago)
Good ol' 'JR' Jim Ross is standing in the ring.

Jim Ross: We're just three weeks away from Wrestlemania and a match that I personally can't wait t' see when The Undertaker defends his incredible winning streak of 16 matches on the grandest stage of them all against John Cena.

*Big Pop*

Jim Ross: There's no doubt in my mind this is going t' be one of the greatest matches in the hist'ry of this business, not just at Wrestlemania. I've fortunate enough to have had the privilege of calling almost ev'ry single one of The Undertaker's victories. I honestly thought before this match with John Cena was announced that the streak would never be broken, however this year I genuinely believe that this is the biggest challenge The Undertaker will face if the streak is to remain intact.

"My Time Is Now"

John Cena
walks out to the stage to a deafening reaction, some major heat there in amongst some cheers from the Cleveland crowd, all bringing a smile to the face of Cena before he salutes he crowd and bursts down the ramp. He slides into the ring with JR clapping him before posing for the crowd, throwing both arms up in the air to another huge mixed response. He turns round and shakes hands with JR, who hands him a microphone too. His music stops and there's a lot of boos still for Cena.

John Cena: I've said it before an' I'll say it again. As much as I wanna beat The Undertaker an' beat the streak, i respect both but I'll do ev'rything I can t' break it. Make no mis...

A gong hits and the lights go out!

"Rest In Peace"
A huge eruption of cheers breaks out as smoke blows across the stage, and The Undertaker emerges from it to another massive pop from the Cleveland fans. He slowly & menacingly walks down to the ring, and the fans cheer again as he brings the lights on with Cena watching closely, eyes fixed on The Dead-Man who enters the ring, microphone in hand as he walks towards the centre of the ring, staring right at Cena.

The Undertaker: John, you are indeed a worthy opponent. I too do not take the streak for granted. However I vow that April 29th you will become the 17th victim of the streak.


Cena takes a few seconds, calming down slightly with Taker's full attention on him.

John Cena: I know it's gonna take the performance of my life t' make it happen against the best Wrestlemania has ever or will ever see, an' while we're on the subject there's something I feel I have t' say. It's no surprise so many people are talking about it 'cause it's a huge match, but one thing I've heard that's pissed me off is about you, not me. I've heard some people say that if the streak does end at Wrestlemania, that means the legacy of The Undertaker ends too. That without question is the single most ridiculous thing I've ever heard in my entire life, an' trust me I've hear some crap in my time. One defeat doesn't tarnish what's been achieved in an almost 20 year career here in the WWE. As amazing as the streak is and how people associate it most with The Undertaker, what you've done in your career goes way beyond what you've achieved just at Wrestlemania. What you've done away from Wrestlemania, any superstar in that locker room would jump at the chance to have even the smallest bit of that career.

*Pop*

JR claps.

John Cena: For anyone who says that if, and I mean if The Undertaker loses at Wrestlemania it'll ruin his legacy, you're showing this legend a ton of disrespect. This man will go down as one of the best ever, even if I beat him in three weeks in London. That will not mean the end of The Undertaker or his legacy.

The Undertaker: I respect your words. The legacy of the streak John cannot be taken for granted either. Here an' now it's all about the streak. The end of that streak is unthinkable. One way or another it will be the end for one of us. One or way another, one of us will rest in peace.

Taker turns round and leaves the ring with Cena & JR looking at each other confused. Taker gets to the stage and turns back, staring right down at Cena, still surprised by what was just said.

***

Smackdown (3 Weeks Ago)

John Cena
vs Ted DiBiase w/Maryse
Ted went looking for The Million Dollar Dream but Cena wouldn't let him apply it properly and fought himself free, and as the match went on it was all Cena. DiBiase did well to hang on in, and despite slipping down from an FU attempt, he ran right into a drop toe hold and the STFU. Maryse tried to encourage him the best she could but he couldn't hang on despite a brave effort, eventually tapping to give Cena the win. After getting his arm raised, Cena had something to say and went after a microphone.
John Cena: I'm guessin' you guys saw Raw Monday night an' there's something I wanna say. I've not held back from talking about how much I wanna do something no one else ever has an' beat The Undertaker at Wrestlemania, but one thing I've never said I've wan'ed t' do is end his career. I don't know what he was hinting at or if I read too much into it but as much as I'd like t' beat the streak, I don't wanna end The Undertaker's career.

*Mixed*

John Cena: That's never been my intention, an' if you're listening dead man, I don't want you t' rest in peace or however you put it if I do beat you on the back of one loss. That's even if you lose, but no one wants t' see the end of The Undertaker, an' that includes me. Think about it dog.

Cena turns round and his music hits as he hands the microphone back through the ropes before posing for the crowd one more time.

***

Raw (2 Weeks Ago)

John Cena
vs The Miz
Cena was seemingly cruising to the win after hitting the Five Knuckle Shuffle when a gong hit and the lights went out to a big pop inside the AT&T Centre. The lights came back on within a couple of seconds and Cena took a look round but there was no sign of The Undertaker, also to the disappointment of the crowd. Miz was getting back up and ran right at Cena who reacted quickly, hitting the F-U before turning Miz over to lock in the STFU, making him tap to secure the win, not that he looked all that pleased about it as he got his arm raised. He wasted no time walking over to the apron and asking for a microphone as Miz rolled out of the ring.
John Cena: I said it a few weeks ago Dead-Man, I'm not here t' play mind games. They don't make a blind bit o'diff'rence t' me dog. You wanna turn the lights out, go ahead, but I've got another idea. It's real simple. You want some? Come get some.

Cena turns & looks up at the stage, waiting to see if The Undertaker will come get some. Cena drops the stick and gets ready if he does and it doesn't take long for a gong to hit with the lights going out.

"Rest In Peace"
The fans go crazy as smoke blows across the stage and The Undertaker emerges from it to an almighty roar with Cena looking on from the ring, showing no fear. Taker slowly but menacingly makes his way down to the ring, eyes focused straight ahead on Cena. The phenom takes the steps slowly and raises his arms to bring the lights back on, and he enters the ring, removing his jacket while still focusing on Cena. He places his jacket on the top rope and turns back to look at Cena, then walks towards him, going face-to-face with him, but Cena still shows no fear. He stares right into the eyes of The Undertaker who then drags his arm across his throat, and Cena takes it as a threat. He fires a right hand at Taker but it's blocked and Taker fires away at Cena, sending him back towards the ropes. The Undertaker fires Cena into the ropes and meets Cena as he comes back with a big boot down his throat.

The fans cheer again, and as Cena stands back up, he turns right into a chokeslam. Again the fans love it and Taker signals for the end, helping Cena up to scoop him up on to his shoulder for the Tombstone, but Cena quickly slips down, surprising Taker. The Dead-Man turns round in a flash, right into an F-U! Most of the fans hate it but there are some cheers as Cena looks down at Taker flat on his back. He then turns to look up at the Wrestlemania sign hanging above the ring. He doesn't look guilty like he did a month or so ago for doing the same thing, and he leaves the ring showing no regret or fear, but he takes a look back and sees Taker sit up emphatically. The fans cheer as Taker turns his head, glaring right at Cena, causing Cena some concern this time as "My Time Is Now" hits with Taker still glaring at a defiant Cena.

***

Raw (Monday Night)

The Undertaker & John Cena

vs The King's Men
Hennig hit the floor by the announce table, and he crawled across to the timekeeper's table to grab a steel chair. As he then slid back in the ring with Cena & Cody trying to get back up, Taker saw him coming and again went after him, ducking a chair shot and nailing him with a big boot. Taker then picked the chair up to a huge cheer with all three men making their way back up, and The Dead-Man was locked & loaded on Hennig, picking himself back up. Taker then lifted the chair up above his head and brought it down towards his head, but Hennig ducked and Cena walked right into it to the shock of the crowd. The ref had lost control and as Taker was them mugged by Rhodes & Hennig, and Rhodes managed to grab the chair, using it happily to drive it against the back of Taker. They then left the ring to heat from the crowd as both Taker & Cena started to stir, and as they made it back up, Cena spun Taker round hard, giving him some harsh words. Taker had none of it and hammered him with a right hand to a big pop. They slugged it out and after an Irish whip, Cena hit the ropes but held on to them.

Taker wasn't happy and charged at him, but Cena lifted him over his shoulder, over the ropes and down to the floor. An angry Cena then joined him on the floor, looking down at Taker in front of the announce table. A light went off in Cena's head and he stripped the announce table to a mixed response from his hometown crowd. He looked down at Taker, seeming to think about it for a second before changing his mind again and lifting him on to his shoulders for the F-U. The fans booed again, but Taker countered with elbows to the head. The fans cheered and Taker slipped down to his feet, grabbed Cena by the throat and sent him through the announce table with a chokeslam to an almighty pop inside the arena. The fans in the front row were going nuts with Cena flat out in amongst the wreckage with JR & The King looking on in shock. "Rest In Peace" then hit to more cheers as Taker dropped to one knee for his signature pose, reaching out with his right arm to yet more cheers from the fans as the camera looked up to the Wrestlemania sign above them.


***

Smackdown (Friday Night)

John Cena
is standing in the middle of the ring, microphone in hand and his music cuts, bringing out more deafening heat for him which he lets go on, waiting for it settle down, and it shows no signs of bothering him.

John Cena: So here we are, two nights away from the date with destiny, my match with the man who is yet to lose a single match in sixteen attempts at Wrestlemania, The Undertaker.

*Big Pop*

John Cena: Now however it's not just any old match, it's gonna be a No Holds Barred match.

*More Cheers*

John Cena: It was always gonna be a fight. Now it's even more than that. Do I have a problem with it? No. Do I think it helps me or The Undertaker? I don't know. Am I comfortable going into a No Holds Barred match with The Undertaker? You're damn right.

*Mixed*

John Cena: Since Raw I've heard people saying I got what I deserved f' trying t' put Taker through a table. That was something I didn't go into Monday night planning t' do. I got hit with a chair, ironically after how all this started but I admit it all got out of hand. I was defending myself-n-I saw an opportunity in the moment. However, to the joy of my hometown crowd in Boston it was John Cena that ended up being chokeslammed through that table.

*Big Pop*

John Cena: But guess what? Four days later I'm here. I'm here-n-I'm still standing.

*Mixed*

John Cena: I always get right back up. This is what I'm all about. I will fight t' the death ev'ry time. I'll do that Sunday when I meet The Undertaker in this ring, looking to become the first person to beat him at Wrestlemania.

*GONG*

"Rest In Peace"​
Out go the lights to a massive roar from the Chicago crowd with smoke blowing across the stage, and The Undertaker emerges from it to another huge cheer. He slowly walks down the aisle to the ring with the not at all intimidated Cena watching him, and as Taker gets to the steps and brings the lights back on, the fans cheer again with Taker staring menacingly at Cena. He steps through the ropes, holding his hat as he carefully enters the ring, with his microphone. The cheers continue, along with chants of "Undertaker" ringing round the United Center.

The Undertaker: Your honesty John is admired, as is your courage to challenge the streak. I have no doubt the streak is under threat. I knew it would be which is why you were chosen. You will be a threat to the streak. However you will not beat the streak.

*Big Pop*

The Undertaker: You are indeed a warrior. You are also a mortal. No mortal can defeat the dead. You are facing the impossible...

John Cena: ... Whoa, hold on. You said y'self that you may rest in peace after Wrestlemania should the streak come to an end. That's something nobody wants including me but it proves that possibility exists. I believe you look at me as someone you know can push you to your limit, maybe more. I believe I can. I believe I will. Most importantly I believe I can beat the streak as unpopular as that may be.

*Tons of Heat*

John Cena: I'm not going t' make false promises or things like that. I genuinely believe I can beat you at Wrestlemania, and one thing I was told at a young age and still am t'day is something that is fitting going into this match we face in London Sunday night... sometime, ev'rything comes to an end, and the streak is no diff'rent.

Cena takes a brief second.

John Cena: I know I'm the underdog but that doesn't bother me one bit. My very first match at Wrestlemania was against 'The World's Largest Athlete' The Big Show five years ago for the United States Championship in Madison Square Garden, the night you returned from the dead. It's a night I'll never f'get. No one thought I'd be able to overcome the 500 pound giant. Did that bother me? No. I lifted all 500 pounds off his feet and F-U'd him to the mat to win my first ever title here.

*Heat*

John Cena: One year later I came up against the man who at the time had been WWE Champion for a year, J-B-L. Again I was the underdog but I beat the man who carried the WWE title for a year for my first WWE Championship. Fast forward a year to my first WWE title defence at Wrestlemania against The King of Kings, The Game... right here in Chicago...

*Pop*

John Cena: That's right. That night I stood in the middle of this ring-n-heard the fans telling me F-U.

*More Cheers*

John Cena: The odds again were against me but I made a ten time World Champion tap out in the middle of this ring.

*Mixed*

Taker is looking right at Cena, listening intently.

John Cena: If that's not enough, I defended the same title a year later against Mr Wrestlemania, The Showstopper, The Headliner, the soon t' be Hall of Famer and current reigning WWE Champion, 'The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels.

*Big Pop*

John Cena: He too tapped out in this ring to the S-T-F-U when I was told I couldn't hang with Mr Wrestlemania. The point is dead-man, each time I've walked into Wrestlemania I've walked in as an underdog like I am this weekend, but each time I've walked out the winner.

*Heat*

John Cena: This year I'm in the exact same position. I've never been fazed by a challenge, but what I've done at Wrestlemania as the so called underdog makes me believe I can overcome any challenge I face, even the streak.

Cena moves closer to Taker, getting deadly serious.

John Cena: If you chose me because you saw me as a challenge, I respect that and I respect you even more, but Sunday night like I do ev'ry night and each time I've been to Wrestlemania I'm gonna give it ev'rything I've got to overcome the odds once again. If that means I end the streak, so be it.

*More Heat*

John Cena: Sunday night you have my respect but you're going t' get nothing but the best of John Cena and ev'rything I have.

Taker goes face-to-face with Cena, looking right into his eyes.

The Undertaker: I'm counting on it.

Taker gives Cena the eyes, but they don't unsettle him as "Rest In Peace" plays again and Taker turns to leave the ring, stepping through the ropes again with Cena watching again, this time as Taker walks back up the ramp and the Wrestleania 25 sign looming above the ring.
*Match #8*



No Holds Barred
The Undertaker vs. John Cena

Last 15+ Minutes:
Taker's turning it up a level now, bringing Cena up to his feet, kicking him hard in the gut and whips him hard into the corner. Cena's back hits the pads and Taker is right in on him with a hard clothesline. The phenom grabs Cena's wrist again and fires him hard into the opposite corner, following in again for another hard clothesline to Cena. Taker's on fire now and turns back to run the ropes, comes bouncing back as Cena steps out of the corner and helps the charging Taker over the top rope and down to the floor. Great reaction from Cena! He drops to one knee and takes in some deep breaths as Taker hits the floor.

Cena stands up and fights fire with fire, stepping through the ropes and jumping down to the floor as Taker tries to get back up in front of the announce teams. Cena lifts Taker up around the waist and drives his back hard into the apron, and again, this time letting go and Taker falls to the floor again, sliding down the apron. Cena turns to the side and looks towards the steps. He walks towards them and lifts off the top step, turns to the side and looks at Taker trying to get back up. He thinks twice but lifts the steps up getting ready to strike, and he does, running at Taker and drives the STEEL STEPS INTO TAKER'S HEAD!!!.....

Taker hits the deck again and Cena looks down at him, not getting any satisfaction from it whatsoever. He drops the steps and looks on as Taker turns on to his side and crawls across the floor. Cena looks up into the crowd, not getting much love as has been the case all night. He walks towards Taker, going back to it, and he reaches down to grab Taker by the head, but The Dead-Man turns over with cables in his hand and wraps them round Cena's neck to a huge roar that goes all the way round Wembley Stadium. Cena falls to his knees as Taker strangles the life out of him, and it's all legal.

Cena tries to grab the cables but he can't get them off with Taker desperate to strangle the fight out of him. He does and Cena falls flat on the floor. Taker stands up and lets go of the cables as the referee jumps outside to check on Cena, and there's no sign of life from him, and the fans are enjoying it by the sound of things. There's no remorse from Taker like there was with Cena, and the phenom drags him up off the floor and tosses him back in the ring. There's some response from Cena and his throat's hurting him, coughing frantically as he gets his breath back. Again, there's no sympathy from Taker as he climbs back on the apron and over the top rope.

He walks menacingly closer towards Cena and he raises his right hand up into the air, getting the crowd all excited, cheering as Cena unwittingly struggles up to his knees. He doesn't know what's coming, and as he gets up, just getting his balance, Taker grabs him by the throat, lifts him up off his feet into the air, CHOKESLAM CONNECTS!!!..... Cena is circling the drain now. Taker has him where he wants him. He drags his arm across his neck, mocking a guillotine to a massive pop inside Wembley. Taker feels the end is near and reaches down to drag Cena up from the mat, scoops him up over his shoulder for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!.....

No, Cena slips down and reacts with his gut instinct to low blow Taker. The Dead-Man slowly falls to his knees and to the mat to a barrage of heat that's thrown at Cena by the crowd as he too falls to his knees having just dodged a real bullet. He just escaped that time and he knows it, realising how close he was to being the latest victim of the streak. He looks into the crowd as he recovers, getting a real feel for how much they want him to fail. He's used to it and stands back up knowing what he has to do, looking down at Taker squirming on the mat. Cena turns his head to the side, thinking about something clearly, and he walks over to the apron.

He steps through the ropes and jumps down to the floor to look under the apron. He lifts it up and he reaches under the ring to pull out a table. Most of the crowd cheer at the sight of it but there are some boos too. He's not done there though and he reaches back under to pull out another one. Taker's still writhing around on the mat as Cena lifts up both tables and slides them on to the apron and pushes them inside the ring. He slides back in the ring under the bottom rope and takes a look at Taker, and now the jeering crowd who chant The Undertaker's name repeatedly, trying to stop what's coming.

Cena focuses on what he has to do and picks up the first table and sets it up away from the ropes, now goes after the other and sets it up alongside the other. There's two tables reserved for Taker, and he could be about to shown to them as Cena gets his game face on and walks towards him. The Undertaker is trying to get back up, clueless to what Cena has in store for him. Cena bends down and helps Taker up, lifting him on to his shoulders, shifts closer to the tables. Here comes the F-U, THROUGH TWO TABLES!!!..... No, Taker fights back with elbows and the crowd respond too, cheering as Taker drops to his feet and turns Cena round to fire him hard into the corner. In comes Taker, nailing Cena with a hard clothesline.

The Undertaker back pedals out of the corner and Cena follows him out, scooped up by Taker, SNAKE EYES!!..... Cena's head is dropped into the top turnbuckle and he's in a spin as Taker turns & runs the ropes at speed, coming back to drive his huge boot down Cena's throat, and the crowd love it. More cheers break out in the crowd and Taker isn't done there, dragging Cena right back up. He fires him into the ropes and Cena comes back off them into a SPINNING SIDEWALK SLAM FROM THE DEAD-MAN!!..... Taker's getting control of this right now and the fans are enjoying every second of it, and the phenom turns himself round to hook Cena's leg for the cover.....

1.....

2.....

No!

Cena kicks out to some boos from the crowd. Taker isn't at all surprised and calmly makes his way back up and he brings Cena with him, and there's no resistance from him. The phenom drags him towards the tables, turns round to face them and scissors Cena between his legs with the fans getting in a frenzy. Taker turns to the crowd, letting them know something bad's about to go down. Now he lifts Cena up above his head for THE LAST RIDE!!!..... Cena's about to go through the tables, but he reacts with desperate shots to the head of Taker. The Dead-Man lets him go and Cena lands on his feet, so close to the tables and pushes Taker back into the ropes.

Taker comes back off them and Cena jumps up to meet him with the LOU THESZ PRESS TO A LOT OF HEAT FROM THE LONDON CROWD!..... Cena unloads with shots to the head of the man with the 16 & 0 streak at stake. He relents and they both race their way back up with Cena running behind him into the ropes, coming back for a ONE HANDED BULLDOG!..... Down goes Taker again and Cena's back up in a flash, running into the corner and stepping through the ropes on to the apron. He climbs up to the top rope, getting his balance on the ropes as Taker gets to his knees beneath him. Cena jumps into action, LEG DROP BULLDOG FROM CENA TAKES DOWN THE UNDERTAKER!!..... Taker's down again and Cena shimmies round in a rush to turn him over and make a cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

The Undertaker kicks out and cheers come from the crowd. Cena gets right back to it, not letting himself get frustrated. Taker's getting up too and Cena helps him. He grabs Taker's wrist and sends him into the corner, following in for a hard clothesline. Cena climbs up to the top rope and takes it to The Dead-Man, pummelling him with more shots to the head, one after another and some of the crowd counting when Taker comes to life. He reaches up and grabs Cena's jeans, lifting him up above his head to an enormous pop. They watch as Taker walks out of the corner with Cena at his mercy, and Taker SLAMS HIM INTO THE MAT WITH THE LAST RIDE!!!..... Cena's out. He's done! He's sprawled out on his back against the mat with the fans in a frenzy as Taker drops to his knees and makes the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!

Cena just gets his shoulder up and sighs come from the crowd. Taker leans back looking a little disappointed, and takes the time to get some air back in his lungs. Cena rolls on to his side and drags himself across the ring to the ropes with Taker watching. The phenom lets him and slowly makes his way back up, watching Cena do the same by the ropes. Cena gets back up using the ropes, and as he turns round, Taker charges at him and sends him over the top with a clothesline. Cena hits the floor in front of the announce table to a big pop. Taker stares down at him, no remorse on his face, but Cena bravely tries to get back up, spurring Taker into life. He turns round to run the ropes, comes racing across the ring and THROWS HIMSELF OVER THE TOP ROPE FOR A HIGH ANGLE SUICIDE DIVE TO THE FLOOR!!!.....

Holy shit! They both narrowly avoid hitting their heads against the Smackdown announce table (central with the Spanish to the right on camera and Raw's to the left) in front of them. Taker isn't too badly hurt as he stands back up in front of the table, and he strips it, monitors too, and Cole & Striker stand up in a panic they're about to get wrapped up in the carnage that awaits. The fans are looking forward to it, cheering as Taker turns to look down at Cena getting to his knees. Taker reaches down and grabs him by the throat, dragging him up, but Cena counters, lifts Taker on to his shoulders and F-U'S HIM THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE!!!.....

Taker's sent crashing through the table and the momentum sends Cena to his knees as the fans in the front row, Cole & Striker all look on in shock with Taker motionless in amongst the wreckage. The referee darts out to check on Taker, and he's not moving a muscle. Cena looks over, breathing heavily still, full of relief he avoided it, and taker starts to come round. Slowly he starts to move, but he's in bad shape, barely able to sit up. Cena stands back up and pulls Taker out of the wreckage, pulls him to the apron and tosses him back in the ring. In gets Cena with the ref following, and Taker's still struggling to move. So much so Cena hooks both his legs to make a cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Taker tamely lifts his shoulder up off the mat, but it's enough for the fans to cheer. Cena sits up, not shocked but he's starting to feel some frustration build inside him. Again he looks to the crowd, listening to the heat for him, but he quickly shrugs it off and stands up. He shoves the tables back, now grabs Taker's feet and drags him away from the ropes, turns him over and tries to lock in the STFU!!!..... Taker reacts though, turning over and kicking up at Cena to send him staggering back across the mat off balance.

The fans cheer Taker again as he drags his way back up with Cena coming at him, and The Dead-Man blocks a right hand to unload on Cena with rights of his own, putting him on the back foot. He tries for an Irish whip but Cena reverses it to send Taker into the ropes, and back he comes, ducks a clothesline and runs through off the ropes, bounces back and drills Cena with a RUNNING DDT!!..... The fans are getting loud again and cheer as Taker turns himself round to turn Cena over on to his back and make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Cena gets the shoulder up! Some boos come from the crowd with some more sighs, and Taker doesn't look too happy. He looks across the ring and sees the tables there. He stands up and walks towards them, grabbing one and he sets it up in the corner, leaning against the pads as Cena lifts his head up off the mat, trying to sit back up. Taker turns his head sharply to look at Cena, and now he turns round walking menacingly towards him. Cena has no idea what's waiting for him, and he's helped up to his feet by Taker, and the phenom sends him firing into the corner and the table. Cena slams on the brakes just in time and turns back to see the furious face of his opponent. He runs back out at Taker who meets him with a big boot. Cena's sent tumbling again but immediately tries to get back up with Taker watching. Cena's up but dazed as he turns into a REVERSE STO!!..... Cena's flat on his face and Taker turns him over to try for another cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Cena gets the shoulder up to the disappointment of most in the crowd. Taker sits up with frustration growing for him now. Cena's head pops up off the mat as he tries to get back up, pissing Taker off even more, and up stands the phenom. He lifts his right hand up in the air again, getting ready for another chokeslam. There's more cheers from the crowd as Cena obliviously hobbles back up, and Taker grabs him by the throat, lifts him up off the mat for a CHOKESLAM!!..... Cena jumps back and lands on his feet, kicks Taker in the gut and connects with a JUMPING RELEASE FISHERMAN SUPLEX!!..... Boos engulf Wembley Stadium as Cena fights back.

Both men hurry their way back up to their feet with Cena up first, running past Taker into the ropes, coming back behind him and hitting the THROWBACK!!..... Cena's getting some momentum now and he's feeling it now, back in the zone as he helps Taker up from his knees to send him into the ropes. Taker reverses it though and Cena hits the ropes, runs back and ducks underneath an outstretched arm, runs the ropes and comes back for a FLYING SHOULDER TACKLE!..... Yet more boos are thrown at Cena as he races back up to his feet, momentum on his side now as he looks to grab control of the match.

Taker's right up too and Cena shifts behind him, lifting him up off his feet, SPIN-OUT POWERBOMB CONNECTS AND DOWN GOES TAKER!!..... Cena's in the groove now and stands up over Taker with the crowd booing him. He ignores it and bends down towards Taker, "You Can't See Me!" There's even more heat thrown at Cena now and he runs the ropes, rubs his shoulder and drops his fist for the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE!..... Taker rolls away from it to a huge pop. Up they both get and Cena turns into a CHOKESLAM!!.... Taker gets it and slams Cena into the mat, dropping down straight away to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

NO!!

The shoulder's up! Yet more boos are aimed at Cena for kicking out of that one. Taker's not impressed or surprised as he sits up looking on in frustration at the referee. He snaps and stands back up, signalling a guillotine again to a big pop with Cena barely moving on the mat. Taker bends down and drags him up, scooping him over his shoulder and into position for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!..... He lowers Cena down his body and gets him in place! The fans are going crazy, and Taker throws himself down on his knees, DRIVING CENA'S HEAD INTO THE MAT!!!.... It's over and Taker crosses the hands of Cena as the ref rushes to his knees to count the fall with the fans counting in tandem.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

.....

NO!!

Cena somehow lifts his shoulder up off the mat and Wembley's in shock. Taker looks stunned, staring at the referee, dumbfounded Cena escaped it. The lights come back on for Cena but he doesn't look at all like he's on this planet right now. He's there for the taking and Taker knows it as he looks down furiously at him. The Dead-Man grabs Cena as he makes his way back up, bringing his opponent with him, again scooping him over his shoulder for another TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!..... The fans cheer, but not for long as Cena slides down his back and stumbles back.

Taker turns in a flash and walks towards Cena, but Cena drops down for a drop toe hold, grabs Taker's legs to pull him to the centre of the ring and locks in the STFU!!!..... Oh my God, Wembley's stunned! Cena fights back and this could be the end of the streak, the end of The Undertaker as Cena tears away at his face with the fans in shock. They quickly respond and get behind The Undertaker, showing so much support for him. You can feel the will of them coming from the crowd to fight & escape. He tries to reach out but he's nowhere close to the ropes with Cena's face crimson as he tries to beat the streak.

There's a ton of nerves on the faces of the fans as they watch Cena doing everything he possibly can to get Taker to tap. There's no quit in Taker though and he starts to fight with everything he can to escape. He slowly drags himself across the canvas, getting the noise level of the crowd doubled straight away. They continue to will him to the ropes, and more chants of his name ring round Wembley Stadium as Cena keeps his nerve, keeping the hold applied. It's not enough though as Taker drags himself towards the ropes with the crowd getting louder & louder with every inch he claws & scrapes.

Cena holds on as tight as he can, starting to see Taker's getting closer to the ropes. He's within touching distance and he reaches out for the bottom rope, but he doesn't get it. Cena stands up, letting the hold go, but only for a minute as he drags Taker back away from the ropes to lock it in again. The fans can't believe it. Is this the end? There's surely no escape for The Undertaker now? Has he got any fight left? He keeps his hand up off the mat, desperately trying to keep the streak going by not tapping out. Cena's relentless though and leans back to give himself as much leverage as possible, torturing Taker, trying to leave him no choice. There are more chants of "Undertaker", and they get a response as Taker digs deep down again to fight his way out of it.

Again he claws & scrapes his way across the mat with Cena holding on, but Taker fights with everything left in his soul to get towards the ropes, getting closer, reaching out, and this time he grabs the bottom rope. An enormous roar breaks out in the stands as the ref tells Cena to let the hold go, and reluctantly he does. He stands back up and backs away, watching Taker grasping for breath. There's a ton of heat for Cena as he looks into the stands, but again he shuts it out and focuses on Taker, watching his every step as he struggles back up to his feet, walking away from the ropes into an F-U!!!..... Taker's slammed into the mat and that could be it as Cena throws himself down to his knees to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

.....

NO!!

Taker gets his shoulder up to an almighty outpouring of joy inside Wembley Stadium. Cena sits up shocked but a smirk appears on his face, knowing it wasn't going to be easy. Taker rolls on to his side, trying to fight on, but the end could be close for the streak. Cena coolly makes his way back up and sees the table that's still upright on the mat. He turns & looks back down at Taker, then into the crowd, getting yet more heat thrown at him. He smirks again, shrugging it off, and in the moment of it all, he cuts his throat, signalling the end to an unbelievable amount of heat. Wembley wants Cena dead, but it's Taker in danger as Cena shifts behind him, lifts him up off his feet on his shoulder and SENDS HIM THROUGH THE TABLE WITH THE SPIN-OUT POWERBOMB!!!..... Holy shit, that has to be it! Taker is done & dusted, and so's the streak. Cena drags him out from the wreckage and crosses Taker's arms to make the cover to so much heat.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

.....

NO!!

Wembley erupts again as Taker gets his shoulder up, but only just! Cena leans back on his knees smirking again, shocked that Taker has this much fight but dealing well with it. He knows it's going to take a lot to end the streak and he stands back up looking into the crowd, holding out his hands and shrugging his shoulders, asking what it's going to take to end the streak and beat The Undertaker. Chants of "You can't beat him" come from the crowd, amusing Cena, but he shakes his head with a confident smirk as he drags Taker back up, lifting him up on to his shoulders one more time for the F-U!!!.....

Cena looks into the crowd with Taker at mercy, but The Dead-Man comes to life again, driving his elbow into Cena's head to huge cheers from the London crowd. He slips down on to his feet and grabs a dazed Cena by the throat, CHOKESLAM CONNECTS!!!..... Cena hits the mat, flat out and Taker falls back on his backside, still exhausted after what he's just been through. He can't take advantage though, but as he stands up, Cena starts to move too. Taker watches him sadistically, letting Cena get up, and as he does, he turns to face him. Taker scoops him up again for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!.....

Cena slips down quickly though and pushes Taker towards the table set up in the corner. Taker puts his hand out and it hits the table, stopping him from going it. The fans breathe a sigh of relief, but as he turns round, Cena runs at him, right into a fierce right hand from the phenom. The fans cheer as Cena falls to the mat and Taker turns to lift the table away from the corner, and he sets it up close by. He watches Cena get back up and grabs him by the throat, shifting towards the table to CHOKESLAM HIM THROUGH IT!!!.....

Cena doesn't let him and kicks him hard in the gut. Taker loosens the grip and he's shoved back into the corner. Cena follows him in but he's met with another fierce right hand. Taker grabs him by the wrist, twist and pulls himself up to the top rope, going up there for OLD SCHOOL!!!.... The fans go nuts and shout "Old School", but before Taker can walk the ropes, Cena responds and stumbles into the corner to hammer Taker with his left hand. Cena climbs up to the second rope and lifts the stunned Taker on to his shoulders.

He's not? Cena has him up for the F-U ON THE SECOND ROPE!!!..... Surely not? The fans look on in shock and Cena throws him off his shoulders, and TAKER GOES STRAIGHT THROUGH THE TABLE!!!..... Cena turns round in shock, and the fans are up on their feet looking on in a state of shock too as Taker lies there flat out, sprawled out on the canvas motionless amongst the broken table. Is he done? Is the streak over? Cena steps down off the ropes and walks across looking guilty for what he's done. He pulls the still motionless Taker out though by his arm and drops to his knees to make the cover with the fans praying Taker kicks out.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

.....

3!!!!

There's no response from Taker and the ref counts to three! Wembley's in shock as Cena himself sits up looking at the referee, gobsmacked as the ref nods at him and calls for the bell.

Justin Roberts:
The winner of this bout, JOHN CE-NA!.

"My Time Is Now" blasts out with Wembley shell-shocked, looking on in disbelief that the streak is over and The Undertaker has been defeated at Wrestlemania. He lies there still, not moving one iota. Cena slowly stands up, staring down in shock too. He still can't believe it as his arm is raised in victory. There's some heat from the crowd but most just stand there looking utterly bewildered, as is Cena as the ref pulls back. Cena doesn't know what to do, shaking his head and looking like he feels guilty for having won the match. He looks into the crowd with the same apologetic face before walking to the apron, taking one last look back at Taker before stepping through the ropes. He jumps down to the floor and heads back up the ramp still very low key with Taker still not moving, eyes wide shut.

Cena gets to the top of the stage and looks back, still sombre before turning to walk to the back. The crowd are shown still looking in utter shock at what they've just witnessed, and there's still no sign of life from The Undertaker, confusing some of them with the referee also confused as he kneels over him. Suddenly the lights go off and there's a gong. Some eerie music plays and ten druids emerge from the back, walking down the ramp to the ring. Four of them enter the ring with the fans even more baffled right now as the four of them lift him, one arm or leg each, carrying him to the ropes. What are we seeing? They then leave the ring and all the druids now stand by the apron to lift Taker on to their shoulders, turning round to face the ramp with Taker above their heads.

Some more druids, about 30 walk out, all carrying flaming torches, 15 on each side, walking down the ramp, forming a guard. They extend the torches out, almost touching each other and "Rest In Peace" plays. The druids carrying The Undertaker's motionless body walk up the ramp under the torches with the fans still in shock, but the majority clap their hands for The Undertaker as he's carried out of Wembley & Wrestlemania, and perhaps the WWE. There are whistles too now and the fans chant "Undertaker" repeatedly as he's carried through the torches, on to the stage and to the back, maybe never to be seen again. The druids with the torches pull them back and turn to walk back up the ramp too, following The Undertaker's body to the back.

Jim Ross:
I'm honestly in shock. I don't know what t' say or what we've just witnessed. I don't think any of us ever expected t' see The Undertaker defeated at Wrestlemania like we just have or those scenes we just have. I'm overwhelmed by so much emotion right now.

Jerry Lawler: I think ev'ryone here feels the exact same way J-R. This is just... wow, I have no words.

Michael Cole: I don't believe there's anyone in this stadium right now who can sum up what we've just seen. It's surreal... completely surreal.

Matt Striker: I never in my career have felt anything like the emotion here at this very moment. There's confusion and just raw emotion. All I can say is we've witnessed an incredible match and an outpouring of emotion for one of the greatest superstars this business has or will ever see in The Undertaker.

Jim Ross: I agree. Whatever what we just saw means, we're lucky enough to have been here to experience a truly remarkable moment.




>Coming Soon!<

*Video Recap*
Raw (29/12/2008)

"Time t' play the game. . ."
A chorus of boos breaks out in the arena as the WWE Champion, Triple H strolls out to the stage, clearly in one hell of a mood. The Game stops & stares out into the crowd giving them all filthy looks before heading down the ramp on a mission, picking a microphone up off the apron as he steps inside the ring, still getting a ton of heat thrown at him as he looks into the stands again. He's seething tonight and the boos continue as his music stops, and The King of Kings walks into the middle of the ring, trying to compose himself as the fans settle down slowly.

Triple H: Last week I stood in this ring to be told that in three weeks I have to defend my WWE title against 29 other men in the Royal Rumble match.

*Big Pop*

Triple H: Eric Bischoff stood in this ring and told the world that for the first time ever, the WWE Championship will be defended in the Rumble match, but let me say this. There's a reason why it'll be the first time. There's a reason why it's never happened before, simply because it's almost impossible. It's the most unpredictable match there is with 30 men. Let me say that again. . . 30 men. For Bischoff to expect anyone to defend the title in those circumstances is nothing short of insane and I flat out refuse. . .

"Back in Black"
The Raw Head of Authority, Eric Bischoff casually walks out into the arena to a positive reaction from the Phoenix fans, and he stops to look back. A group of up to 10 security officers follow him out, putting a bigger smile on Bischoff's face as he heads down the ramp towards the ring with security joining him in there, not making Triple H's mood any better at all as he stares at Bischoff with contempt.

Eric Bischoff: Hun'er I'm disappointed in you. Didn't we have this conversation last week? No matter what you think or how you feel about it, you will defend the WWE Championship in the Royal Rumble match.

*Big Pop*

Eric Bischoff: Now we've got that out of the way I think we should talk about what happened last week and why I've had t' bring security down here with me. You don't need me t' tell you what you did an' I'm going t' skip past that. I'm gonna get right t' the point. I've had a week t' think about what punishment I should give you. I came up with several possibilities, because let's face it Hun'er you've always had a problem with authority, and in just a few moments you're going t' realise who calls the shots around here.

*More Cheers*

Bischoff looks intently at The Game, letting him know he means business.

Eric Bischoff: I've got to admit that all the possibilities I came up with like suspending you, stripping you of the title, they all appealed t' me. . . but then I had another idea come into my head that I think these people are going t' love. See since this is all about making hist'ry, you being the first superstar to ever defend the WWE title in the Royal Rumble an' all, but it gets better. There's only one thing worse than having t' defend the title in the Rumble, that being having to defend the WWE title in the Royal Rumble as the number one entrant.

The crowd erupts with a massive pop as Bischoff stands there with a big smile on his face. Triple H can't believe what he's hearing and just glares at him, then walks closer as security move in.

***

Royal Rumble (18/1/2009)




Michaels is flat out, but Orton's not done as he stands back up and turns his attention to The Undertaker. With the fans cheering, Orton watches him turn into his path and leaps up for the RKO!!!. . . . . Taker avoids it and throws Orton down to the mat. The Dead-Man stares down at Orton and lifts his right hand up for a CHOKESLAM!!!. . . . . The fans are enjoying this as Orton claws his way back up, turning round with Taker grabbing him by the throat. With the fans cheering, Taker lifts Orton up off his feet but ORTON COUNTERS IN MID AIR WITH AN RKO!!!. . . . .

It gets a mixed reaction from the crowd as Orton stares over at Taker, watching him rolling around on the mat. The Viper picks himself back up again, as does The Game by the ropes. Orton turns his head and sees him getting up, and he runs right at him, right into a HIGH KNEE STRIKE FROM THE WWE CHAMPION!!. . . . . It sends Orton staggering away from the ropes, and Triple H follows him out with Orton turning into a SPINNING SPINEBUSTER!!. . . . . The incredibly focused WWE Champion picks himself back up, seeing the finish line in sight against all the odds.

He pulls Orton back up, once again setting him up for the PEDIGREE!!!. . . . . The fans boo as The Game gets ready to drill Orton, but The Viper counters again with the BACK BODY DROP!!. . . . . Both men pull themselves back up, and as they turn to face each other, Orton tries for an RKO!!!. . . . . The Game counters and shoves Orton into the ropes. Orton holds on, pissing Triple H off no end. The WWE Champion stares angrily at Orton and runs in at him, AND ORTON DROPS TO HIS KNEES AND PULLS DOWN THE ROPES TO SEND TRIPLE H TOPPLING DOWN TO THE FLOOR AND OUT OF THE MATCH!!!

Elimination #27: Triple H by Randy Orton.

The now former WWE Champion sits up on the floor in shock, livid to be out of the match and losing his WWE title. Orton stands there smirking back at him, very much enjoying the satisfaction of eliminating the man he blames for costing him the same title at Unforgiven and putting him on the shelf for two months at Survivor Series. The Game mouths something to Orton, not that it bothers The Viper one bit, but Triple H stands up and tries to get back on the apron. He's blocked by the two officials with Orton still watching as the angry former WWE Champion tries to get back at him. He's held back as Orton smirks and turns round, only to see Taker back on his feet and running at him, CLOTHESLINING HIM OVER THE TOP AND OUT OF THE RING & MATCH!!!

Elimination #28: Randy Orton by The Undertaker.

We're down to two, The Undertaker & Shawn Michaels!

Orton hits the floor to a mixed reaction with The Game stepping back. He looks down at Orton without remorse, then shoves his way past the referees to drag Orton back up. The Game takes all his anger out on Orton and sends him face first into the ringpost. The Viper falls to the floor as the referees again grab Triple H and pull him away. He doesn't put up much resistance this time and retreats, still staring at Orton who remains on the arena floor, face down with the fans booing as Triple H finally relents and leaves ringside one angry S.O.B.

H.B.K. climbs all the way up to the top, fans going crazy as he LEAPS OFF TO DRIVE HIS ELBOW INTO TAKER'S CHEST, BUT TAKER DODGES IT BY ROLLING TO THE SIDE!!. . . . . They're both battle scarred as they pick their way back up, and Michaels blocks a right hand to fire jabs at Taker. Cheers come from the crowd and Shawn sends Taker into the ropes. The Dead-Man bounces off them and ducks an outstretched arm from Michaels, runs through off the ropes and hits Michaels with a RUNNING DDT!!!. . . . .

Michaels head just got drilled into the mat and Taker stands back up, pulls down one of his straps and raises his right hand to another big pop as Michaels sits up not knowing what planet he's on. Taker gets ready to strike, circling Michaels as he drags himself back up, struggling to keep his balance as he turns round with Taker grabbing him in a flash by the throat and PLANTING HIM WITH A CHOKESLAM!!!. . . . . Michaels is down & out in the middle of the ring, completely lifeless with Taker cutting his throat, signalling the end is near.

He reaches down and drags Michaels back up, no resistance from The Heartbreak Kid as Taker scoops him up and over his shoulder for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!. . . . . Michaels fights back, wriggling down his way The Phenom's back to another big pop. Taker can't believe it and Michaels shoves him into the ropes. Taker turns round against the ropes and Michaels runs at him for a clothesline, but TAKER DUCKS HIS HEAD AND LIFTS MICHAELS OVER THE ROPES. . . . . HBK LANDS ON THE APRON AND TAKER TURNS TO SEE SHAWN THERE HOLDING ON, AND MICHAELS THRUSTS HIS SHOULDER INTO TAKER'S STOMACH. . . . .

MICHAELS TAKES THE FIGHT AND SUNSET FLIPS BACK INTO THE RING BUT TAKER STANDS FIRM. HE STARES DOWN AT HBK ON THE MAT AND FIRES A RIGHT HAND AT HIM, BUT MICHAELS SLIDES THROUGH THE LEGS TO DODGE IT AS TAKER DRIVES HIS FIST INTO THE MAT!!!. . . . . MICHAELS RUSHES BACK UP TO HIS FEET AS AN ANGRY TAKER TURNS ROUND INTO SWEET CHIN MUSIC, AND IT TAKES HIM OVER THE TOP AND DOWN TO THE FLOOR. . . . . TAKER'S OUT & MICHAELS HAS DONE IT. HE'S WON THE ROYAL RUMBLE & THE WWE TITLE!!!

Elimination #29: The Undertaker by Shawn Michaels.

"Sexy Boy" blasts out and Michaels drops to his knees, shocked at his own achievement with the fans going crazy. Taker sits up on the floor and looks back in with frustration as one of the referees enters the ring to raise Michaels' hand and to present him with the WWE Championship. The emotional Texan throws his title up in the air in sheer ecstasy, almost on the verge of tears as he looks into the crowd. He walks off into the corner and climbs up to the second rope to applaud the fans with the title on his shoulder, soaking up the incredible ovation as confetti falls from the heavens and Taker grudgingly turns his back on the ring and head back up the aisle.

Michaels is struggling to take it all in, looking at the WWE title almost in disbelief before raising it again. He steps down and walks back into the centre, again raising his title proudly with the fans still cheering the new WWE Champion, just as the former champion walks back out into the arena. An angry Triple H glares furiously at Michaels, who turns round to see The Game standing there staring at him. Michaels drops the title on his shoulder and stares back, looking somewhat confused. The Heartbreak Kid cracks a smile and turns back to walk over to the ropes to pose with his title again, only pissing The Game off even more as he watches on with steam coming out of his ears.


***

Raw (19/1/2009)

"Sexy Boy"

Lilian Garcia:
Please welcome the new WWE Champion, The Heartbreak Kid Shawn MI-CHAELS.

The entire crowd are on their feet as 'The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels struts out to the stage with the WWE title draped proudly over his rightly shoulder. He stops & looks out into the crowd and drops to his knees at the top of the ramp, doing his trademark pose to a huge pyro explosion behind him. He stands back up with a big smile on his face, slapping hands with the fans as he makes his way down the ramp into the ring, where he spins round like the good old days with confetti & balloons falling from the rafters. The fans are still on their feet applauding as his music stops.

"H-B-K, H-B-K. . ."
Michaels soaks up the ovation, taking it all in as he's passed a microphone by Lilian who leaves the ring for Shawn. The new WWE Champion applauds the fans and they quieten down eventually, allowing him to speak.

Shawn Michaels: After over 20 years in this business I thought I'd done it all an' seen it all. . . well I guess I was wrong.

*Pop*

Shawn Michaels: The main event of Wrestlemania is the place we all wanna be. F' all I knew I might never get the chance t' be in that spot again, let alone as WWE Champion. I knew that last night may well be the last chance I ever got t' get there again I went out last night t' do ev'rything I could t' make that happen.

"TIME T' PLAY THE GAME. . ."
The former WWE Champion, Triple H strolls out to the stage in jeans and a T-shirt to a barrage of boos as he stares down furiously at Michaels, and The Heartbreak Kid turns to look up at his former best friend giving him the dirtiest of looks. The crowd continue to boo the livid former champion as he slowly makes his way down to the ring, not taking his eyes off the new owner of the title, and Michaels too watches him all the way up the steps and into the ring. The Game stands up and gives him the eyes before kicking his way through some balloons to get a microphone of his own. He's passed one and he turns back to walk right up to Michaels, breathing heavily as his music stops, bringing out the boos as he just about manages to stop himself attacking Shawn, who stands there cool as ice looking back at The Game. He takes a deep breath and steps back, still struggling to keep his composure.

Shawn Michaels: Well I guess you've not come out here t' give your old buddy a pat on the back, so are we gonna get all this over an' done with or what?

Triple H: Get all this over an' done with? Shawn, I don't think you understand this situation. This might be your dream, your last chapter or however it was you put it but this isn't something we settle here an' now then just move on. You're standing there with my title, an' this dream of yours you're in right now, regardless of our hist'ry is the start of the worst nightmare you'll ever have.

Michaels realises just how serious The Game is and the smile is fading fast.

Triple H: Last night I was forced into a position no one else has ever been in, f' good reason. Expecting anyone to defend the WWE Championship in the Royal Rumble, let alone as the number one entry is beyond unreasonable, yet I came that close to doing just that. Ev'ryone wrote me off, ev'ryone, but I knew if anyone could do it it was me. I gave it ev'rything, absolutely ev'rything. I fell that little bit short but it doesn't mean it's over Shawn, not by a long shot. You've been in this business long enough t' know that ev'ry champion has a rematch clause in their contract, and you can talk all about how you're going to fulfil this last dream of main eventing Wrestlemania as the WWE Champion, but Shawn you're going t' be defending it against me.

A pop breaks from the crowd as Eric Bischoff paces out from the back with a microphone in hand and Triple H turns round looking up furiously at him.

Eric Bischoff: Trust me Hun'er you don't wanna do that t'night. You'll wanna hear what I've got t' say.

The Game & Michaels both look up, curious as to what Bischoff has to say.

Eric Bischoff: I couldn't help but hear you talk about this watertight rematch clause you plan on using. See in theory you were right. However in exceptional circumstances that clause can be declared void, and I feel I must advise you that these circumstances include putting your hands on a referee, a fan or your boss.

The fans cheer again, feeling sure they know what this means with The Game feeling the same way as he glares up staring daggers at Bischoff.

Eric Bischoff: Now seeing as you put your hands on me several weeks ago, that means only one thing, I have ev'ry right to declare your rematch null an' void, and that's exactly what I've done.

*Huge Pop*

The fans are making a racket as Triple H stomps over to the ropes and mouths something up at Bischoff, absolutely furious at having his rematch taken off him.

Eric Bischoff: What that means is, we need to determine who will challenge Shawn at Wrestlemania for the WWE Championship. In three weeks we'll find out who that'll be, because at No Way Out there will be a number one contender match.

***

No Way Out (Last Month - 8/2/2009)



Final Elimination:
The fans love it as an unwitting Triple H lifts his head up off the mat, and Taker gives him a massive helping hand. He pulls up off the mat and scoops him on to his shoulder for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!. . . . . It's deafening but Trips fights for his life and slips down Taker's back to safety, then pushes him forward into H.B.K. The WWE Champion takes a tumble and stays down, looking like he clashed heads with the shocked Taker, but Trips takes advantage by dropping on to one knee and low blowing The Dead-Man from behind to a ton of heat.

The fan boo the hell out of him as he stands up without a care in the world looking down at Shawn out cold and Taker writhing around. The Game cracks a wry smile and leaves the ring to look under the apron, pulling out his sledgehammer to even more heat. The Vegas crowd make a right racket as he slides back in the ring, eying up Taker as he tries to make his way back up. Michaels is still out of it, face down on the mat as an intense Triple H locks & loads on the unsuspecting phenom when all of a sudden a big pop breaks out and John Cena charges down to the ring.

He slides in to the ring, catching Trips off guard and tackles The King of Kings down to the mat. The fans cheer Cena this time and as he stands up, he picks up the sledgehammer Trips just dropped. Looking like he's trying to make it up to The Undertaker, Cena gets ready to take off The Game's head with his own weapon as he makes his way back up with Taker doing the same behind him. Cena's bursting to take his head off and runs at him, DRIVING THE SLEDGEHAMMER IN TO TRIPS' FACE, BUT HE DUCKS AND TAKER WALKS RIGHT IN TO THE SHOT!!!. . . . . Trips breathes a sigh of relief as Cena looks down stunned at Taker laid out thanks to him again.

The Game grabs Cena's shoulder and spins him round, right into a PEDIGREE!!!. . . . . The sledgehammer falls to the mat and Trips kicks it out of the ring, then kicks Cena to the apron before dragging the dead weight that is Taker up to his knees, struggling to do so as Michaels starts to stir. The fans boo like mad as the former WWE Champion gets set to get the rematch he craves at Wrestlemania against the man who took his title in the Royal Rumble. Taker's helpless and Trips sets him up, then sends him spiralling in to the mat courtesy of a PEDIGREE!!!. . . . . Taker's not moving and The Game rolls him on to his back as H.B.K. lifts his head up off the mat to see Triple H making the cover. Michaels drags himself across the mat and makes the count to a chorus of boos. . . . .

1. . . . .

. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!!!

Michaels calls for the bell and "The Game" blasts out to even more heat from the Vegas crowd as a smug Triple H rises to his feet. The number one contender looks down with another wry smile as the WWE Champion drags himself up to his knees, watching as his Wrestlemania opponent throws his arms above his head again. It's clearly 'Game On' now, and as Shawn makes it back up to his feet looking unsteady on them, he & Trips stare at each other. There's so much tension between them with The Game looking very confident, almost laughing as Shawn shows some vulnerability.

To his credit he walks over and tries to raise The Game's hand, and he allows Shawn to do so, he takes serious pleasure in it, but as Shawn's about to let go, Trips turns him in to a kick to the gut and a Pedigree. His music cuts and the boos ring round the MGM Grand Garden Arena as the challenger for the WWE title stares down coldly at the man he'll meet in just less than two months on the biggest stage of them all. "The Game" hits again and he poses over Michaels, thrusting his arms back and taking great satisfaction in it with Cena coming to and Taker also starting to stir with The Game standing tall.


***

Raw (7 Weeks Ago)

"TIME T' PLAY THE GAME. . ."
An enormous eruption of boos breaks out as Triple H makes his way out to the stage, stopping there, briefly turning to the crowd before pouring water over his head and setting 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: This t'night is a match Eric Bischoff wants t' try an' punish me f' getting my rematch at the WWE Championship. I've got news for y'Bischoff, you're gonna be disappointed like you were last night. Randy Orton is about to suffer defeat at my hands like he did last night at No Way Out, just like Shawn Michaels will at Wrestlemania.

*Major Heat*

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.

Steel Cage Match
Randy Orton
vs. Triple H
Both men had to drag themselves back up, and as they turned to face each other, Orton drilled him with a snap DDT. Again it wasn't enough and went to climb the cage. Unfortunately for him and the crowd, The Game caught up with him and brought him back on to the top rope, hitting a super-plex. 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.

***

Raw (6 Weeks Ago)
The WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels 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 that time of the year boys an' girls. We're on the road to Wrestle-mania. 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... 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: 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.

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. 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.

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.

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.

***
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.

***

Raw (5 Weeks Ago)

"Behold the King, the King of Kings. . ."

Triple H
enters the arena to a barrage of heat from the Hartford crowd. He stops at the top of the stage and looks into the crowd, pouring water over his head before setting off down to the ring. He walks round the floor and climbs on to the apron, taking a gulp of water, then throws his arms back before spraying the water into the front row. Looking incredibly fired-up he steps inside the ring and walks across to Lilian Garcia to take her microphone. His music stops and the boos continue being thrown in his direction, but he's already pissed as it is.

Triple H: Last week Shawn Michaels stood in this ring and said he was ready for a battle, but I proved he's not. I proved I am ready and that I'm capable of not just taking his title but ending his career. Right now while I stand in here in this ring, he's resting up at home. He can sit there watching as I beat John Cena like I'll beat him at Wrestlemania and take back my WWE title.

*More Boos*

"My Time Is Now"​
The crowd erupts with a largely positive reaction for John Cena as he bursts out on to the stage. He stops & salutes the crowd with an angry Triple H looking at him as Cena sets off at speed down to the ring, sliding under the bottom rope and standing up to pose for the crowd, again getting some boos as well as the cheers. He pulls off his T-shirt and throws it into the crowd with The King of Kings watching his opponent's every move. Cena turns and looks at him, letting him know he too is up for the fight.

John Cena vs. Triple H
Trips stood back up and stared down furiously at Cena as he clawed his way back up. Trips pulled him up from his knees into place for the Pedigree, but Cena reacted quickly, sweeping Trips' legs and holding on to them. He turned slightly and catapulted The King of Kings into the turnbuckle pads. Trips hit them face first, and as he staggered back round, Cena turned too, lifted him up off the mat and planted him with the F-U to another massive roar inside the XL Center when the lights went out. The roar got even louder as the tron started to flicker. Cena stood up confused looking at it as a video collage of The Undertaker hitting the tombstone on all his Wrestlemania victims with a number, all the way from 1-16 accompanying them, before the tombstone to Cena at No Way Out ended it with 17-0 flashing across the tron. The video ended in a flash and the lights came back on with Cena turning to look at the crowd to get their reaction by the looks of it, not appearing to be too worried by it. He was unaware though of Triple H getting back up behind him, and when he turned round with a smile on his face, he was stomped in the gut and Trips drilled him with the Pedigree. He went straight for the cover and got the three to a ton of heat. He got his arm raised by the referee to "King of Kings" with a look of immense intensity, not showing any satisfaction whatsoever.

He then hit the corner, climbing up to the second rope, throwing both arms up in the air and back as Cena sat up shaking his head, clearly not impressed he let The Undertaker's video distract him. He shook his head all the way back up the ramp as Trips stared into the crowd, letting them know exactly what he thought of them when "Sexy Boy" blasted out to a huge roar from the crowd. The fans went crazy as the WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels stepped out from the back with a face like fury. Triple H stepped off the top rope, shocked to see The Heartbreak Kid there glaring down at him. Michaels then stomped down the ramp and slid in the ring, walking right towards The King of Kings as they squared up, tension about to boil over, and it did with Michaels unloading on him with some hard right hands. He sent Trips back into the ropes and went for an Irish whip. The Game reversed it though and walked out to meet Michaels who came back with a flying forearm smash. The fans went crazy, and as both men made their way back up Michaels backed up, tuning up the band to take Trips' head off with the Super Kick. He exploded out of the corner but Trips ducked it and fled to safety under the bottom rope to a ton of heat. Michaels turned round, absolutely furious as The Game backtracked from the ring, and the WWE Champion turned round again, walking over to the apron to call for a microphone. He walked back over to the other side, looking right back up at an also furious Triple H.
Shawn Michaels: As of right now Hun'er, this isn't just a battle, it's all out war my friend. You wanna end my career so bad? I got it, but you better be ready 'cause I'll happily sacrifice it to end yours too. At Wrestlemania, if I'm going down, I'm taking you with me Jack.

Michaels tosses the microphone down and picks his title up, lifting it on to his shoulder as he looks up at a very intense Triple H, exchanging serious looks.

***

Raw (4 Weeks Ago)
The WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels walks out to the stage to a whole host of Calgary heat amongst very few cheers, but The Heartbreak Kid doesn't pay any attention to them and makes his way down the ramp with the WWE title on his shoulder. He enters the ring and again ignores the crowd, walking over to the apron to ask for a microphone. He gets one and turns back to walk into the middle of the ring as his music cuts, and again the boos are deafening. Michaels stands there waiting for it to die down, dealing with it very calmly.

Shawn Michaels: I realise I'm never going t' be the most popular guy here but right now I have other important things t' deal with. As I'm sure you all know, four weeks from now I'm gonna be in the fight of my life at Wrestlemania against Triple H. I'm under no illusion how tough that's gonna be an' how much he wants the WWE Championship back. This goes way beyond the title now but I'm gonna fight like crazy t' keep it an' beat Triple H.

*Heat*

Shawn Michaels: Two weeks ago he showed how far he'll go, just what he'll do. He's prepared t' take me out an' end my career even before Wrestlemania. He thought he'd gone a long way t' doing just that but last week I walked down t' this ring t' let him know that it's gonna take a lot more than that t' get rid of The Heartbreak Kid.

"Out To Kill"
Surprising everyone, a very serious looking Cody Rhodes walks out to into the arena with his tag team partner, Joe Hennig. Michaels looks confused as Cody & Joe wander on down to the ring with Cody picking a microphone up off the steps as he enters the ring, followed by Hennig.

Cody Rhodes: Shawn Shawn Shawn Shawn Shawn, give it a rest. You can try all you want to try and convince these people who clearly hate your guts that you're going t' beat Triple H at Wrestlemania when I think there's a lot of people who believe that not even you believe it yourself.

Rhodes stares intently at the confused Michaels.

Cody Rhodes: The way we see it, as should everyone, Triple H should still be the WWE Champion right now, not you. It was nothing short of outrageous that he was forced to defend the WWE title in the Royal Rumble match. No one before has done it and no one should. There's no doubt in our minds that Triple H was screwed out of the WWE Championship, and that's the only reason you're the WWE Champion.

Shawn Michaels: What I would like t' know is what the hell you think it's got t' do with you?

Cody Rhodes: Well Shawn that's simple. Really it has nothing t' do with us, it's just that we're both sick of being disrespected. Joe an' I are stars of the future and we've been looking t' make a statement the last few weeks to prove it. We were listening back there and thought what a great opportunity this was to prove ourselves at the expense of the man who is but shouldn't be WWE Champion.

Hennig then pounced on Michaels, joined then by Cody who dropped the microphone and started mugging Michaels, forcing him down to the mat with shots to the head and then kicks to the body with the fans torn on how to respond. Some loved it and some booed as Cody then instructed Joe to step back. They both did as Cody watched Shawn try to get to his knees, and Rhodes then decided to give him a helping hand, pulling him into place for Cross Rhodes. Again the crowd were split, but then The Heartbreak Kid fought back, shocking Cody by pulling away to shove him into the ropes before driving his elbow back into Hennig's head. Cody came back off the ropes and was on the end of a Lou Thesz press from a ticked off WWE Champion.

Hennig then dragged him up and fired him into the corner, but he ran into a raised boot from Michaels who followed out, taking him down with a swinging neckbreaker. It was getting seriously loud in Calgary, but again the crowd were split as the WWE Champion stood up and retreated to the corner to tune up the band. Hennig unwittingly pulled himself back up, and as Michaels exploded out of the corner, Cody tackled Shawn down to the mat, saving the day for Hennig. Cody then hammered Michaels, sat on top of him while nailing him with right hands to the skull. Hennig then pulled his partner up, not that Cody was happy about it, but he then stared down at Shawn before he & Hennig left the ring, mostly to cheers. They backed away from the ring, watching the WWE Champion sat up furiously, staring right back at the determined young duo.

***
A pissed off WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels is walking backstage and Leticia Cline walks up to him.

Leticia Cline: Shawn, may I get a quick word from you about what happened out there before?

He doesn't look too happy but does stop.

Shawn Michaels: Yeah I've got a few words I wanna say, all to Triple H. I think it's obvious he was behind what happened out there. It doesn't surprise me he's getting people t' do his dirty work f' 'im now. If that's the way he wants t' play it, fine by me. He's not the only one who can play dirty. He might find that out real soon too Leticia.

The WWE Champion means every word as he stares right down the lens of the camera.

***

Raw (3 Weeks Ago)

"Sexy Boy"
The very serious WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels walks out into the arena with a purpose to a huge ovation. The crowd rise to their feet for The Heartbreak Kid, but he paces down the ramp to the ring, wasting no time going up the steps to enter the squared circle, picking a microphone up off the apron in the process. He walks into the middle of the ring and his music stops, brining out chants of "HBK" from the Cleveland crowd, and the WWE Champion takes a few seconds to try & compose himself.

Shawn Michaels: You don't need me t' tell you what happened in this ring last week. Triple H has made it clear he'll do whatever it takes t' take this title from me, end my career at Wrestlemania. I know better than anyone what that son of a bitch is capable of, an' that includes getting other people t' do his dirty work for him. He knows deep down he can't beat me alone so he went looking for help. I'm not out here t' mess about t'night. There's one thing I want, an' that's f' that no good son of a bitch t' bring his ass down here right now.

The Showstopper turns & looks up at the stage, waiting for his rival's appearance.

"Behold the King, the King of Kings..."
Here comes 'The King of Kings' Triple H to a ton of heat, stepping out from the back looking right down at Michaels. Triple H doesn't look at all impressed as the WWE Champion stares right up at him, watching The Game's every step of the way down to the ring. Triple H enters the ring with his eyes fixed firmly on Michaels the whole time, and he walks right up to him, giving him the eyes before walking past him to collect a microphone. He turns back and the music cuts with him & Michaels gazing at each other still.

Shawn Michaels: Now you're here I want you t' do one thing. F' once in your life tell the truth. Admit you were behind what happened last week.

Triple H: As I've said several times already, I had nothing t' do with that. I knew nothing about it. I didn't orchestrate it. It had nothing... I repeat nothing t' do with me. If you can't accept that, fine. I don't care. That, that's the truth whether you like it or not.

Shawn Michaels: I don't buy it, not for a second. I've heard all the talk back there about you talking t' those two guys t'night. Ev'ryone, me especially knows you're a liar, you can't be trusted. Now's no diff'rent.

Triple H: Believe what you want, I couldn't care less. I know I had nothing t' do with what happened last week. I saw it like ev'ryone else. I saw them tell the truth, that they're two young hungry talented superstars out t' make a statement at the expense of the WWE Champion, although you won't be that f' much longer. That isn't hard to understand Shawn. You've done it yourself, as have I. As for the talk about me speaking with them t'night... yeah that's true. I can talk t' who I want like ev'ryone else. They explained t' me why they did what they did last week. They told me what I just told you, and I respect what they did. We've been there. We know what it's like trying t' break out. I respect their ambition. I respect their heritage, and if I can guide them to the top I will. As much as I had nothing t' do with what they did last week, I can't say the same about t'night...

"Out To Kill"
Out into the arena walk Cody Rhodes & Joe Hennig with big smiles on their faces with Michaels looking up furiously at them. They walk down to the ring grinning through the taunts from the fans, and as they step inside they shake hands with The King of Kings, infuriating The Heartbreak Kid.

Triple H: You can't blame me f' what happened last week Shawn. T'night's another story, but before there's anything to be blamed for, let me intr'duce you to Cody Rhodes an' Joe Hennig, who you may now call The King's Men.

Shawn Michaels: ... Whoa whoa whoa. Hold fire f' just a minute. See I knew something like this was going t' happen t'night. When I got here I said I had something up my sleeve, an' like you Hun'er I have friends I can rely on too, so I thought it was best t' bring someone along t'night I can rely on.

*Pop*

Shawn Michaels: And unlike these two, he's been there seen it done it, and he likes a fight too.

All four men in the ring turn up to look at the stage.


The crowd erupts with cheers as Kevin Nash strolls out with a big smirk on his face, similar to the WWE Champion in the ring. Trips, Rhodes & Hennig all look stunned to see Nash walking down to the ring and step over the top rope to more cheers from the crowd. He walks towards Michaels, smirking at Triple H & The King's Men before being passed the microphone by Michaels. The fans continue to cheer as his music cuts, not going down at all well with Trips, Cody & Joe.

Kevin Nash: Damn it's good t' be back.

*Big Pop*

Kevin Nash: Good t' see you too Hun'er. Well it will be in three weeks when HBK here kicks your teeth down your throat.

*More Cheers*

That pisses The Game off even more.

Kevin Nash: If you think I'm gonna sit back an' watch you steal Shawn's title like the no good son of a bitch he said you are, you've got another coming. You'll have t' go through me too bro'.

The King of Kings drops the stick and walks right up to Nash, getting in his face, letting him know he's not intimidated, all to the amusement of Rhodes & Hennig. Nash isn't intimidated either and again smirks in Trips' face, then quickly drops the microphone to kick him in the gut and pull him into position for the Jack-knife. Rhodes & Hennig attack, joined by Triple H with Shawn coming to Nash's aid with all hell breaking loose. Michaels & Trips go at it with the crowd cheering as Nash tries to fight off The King's Men, and he does. He catches Hennig with a vicious knee to the gut and Cody with an elbow to the head, then fires him into the ropes, nailing him with a big boot as he comes back. Hennig tries to whip him into the ropes but Nash counters with a short-arm clothesline.

He watches Cody getting up by the ropes and runs at him, sending him over the top with a clothesline. Hennig rolls outside too as Triple H fires Shawn into the ropes and jumps up for a high knee strike but the WWE Champion ducks it and runs through off the ropes, taking Trips down with a flying forearm. The fans go nuts, and as both men get back up, Michaels levels him with a super kick, and the momentum takes Triple H into Nash's path, who kicks him in the gut and this time plants him with the Jack-knife. The fans love it and Michaels high fives Nash with "Sexy Boy" playing as they stand over The King of Kings flat on his back. Cody & Joe sit up on the outside looking unsure of what's happened as Raw comes to a close with Michaels & Nash enjoying their reunion and the sight of Triple H motionless at their feet.

***

Raw (2 Weeks Ago)
Good ol' 'JR' Jim Ross is standing in the middle of the ring, microphone in hand, ready to address the crowd, waiting for them to quieten down.

Jim Ross: Welcome ev'ryone to Monday Night Raw from the great state of Texas, home of the WWE Champion Shawn Michaels...

*More Cheers*

Jim Ross: ... That brings me to why I'm stood in this ring right now... See t'night I have the pleasure of informing all of you San Antonio folk that your very own Heartbreak Kid will be inducted into this year's WWE Hall of Fame.

*Massive Pop*

"H-B-K, H-B-K..."


Jim Ross: He truly is one of the greatest the business has seen or ever will, however I must tell you that there's another reason I'm currently stood here. Later on this evening I am scheduled to speak with the man himself but all day there have been rumours going round in the locker room that Shawn Michaels plans to retire win lose or draw at Wrestlemania in two weeks.

"Behold the King, the King of Kings..."

'The King of Kings' Triple H
steps out to the stage to a ton of heat from the San Antonio crowd, and he shows them the same contempt on his way down to the ring, giving them filthy looks as JR looks on from the ring, surprised to see the number one contender for the WWE Championship coming to join him. Trips makes his way up the steps and picks a microphone up off the apron before entering the ring to more boos. He looks into the crowd with the same distain as his music stops, bringing out the heat even more. He shrugs it off and walks closer to JR.

Triple H: Shawn knows I'm going t' beat him within an inch of his life. Saying he'll retire now will make it seem like his decision when it's not. He knows his career as well as his title's on the line in two weeks, and he's going t' lose both, because of me.

The sooner you people deal with it, the easier it will be to accept that you won't be seeing him...

"Sexy Boy"
The WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels walks out from the back with Kevin Nash to a huge standing ovation from his hometown crowd. He & Nash stop on the stage and take in the reception with The Game looking on from the ring, staring up at them. Michaels heads down focused on Triple H, as is Nash, not taking their eyes off him as they enter the ring too with the WWE Champion walking past him to collect a microphone while Nash gives Triple H a mean stare.

Triple H: Go on Shawn, tell them the truth. Tell them you're...

Shawn Michaels: ... You shut your mouth before I kick your teeth down your throat.

*Huge Pop*

Shawn Michaels: All I'm gonna say is that being back home the last few days with my family we've spoke about a lot o'things, including my career. What was said in those conversations remains between me an' my family, but f' what it's worth it's the same conversation we had last year and the year before that.

The shot quickly changes, showing Shawn's wife Rebecca watching nervously in the front row with their kids alongside her.

Shawn Michaels: I'm...

"PLEASE DON'T GO, PLEASE DON'T GO..."

The crowd gets to Michaels, showing some real emotion, taking some time to compose himself.

Shawn Michaels: ...I'm not going to confirm or deny anything t'night. Nothing's official right now. All I'm focused on is Wrestlemania and retaining the WWE Championship.

All of a sudden boos come from the crowd and The King's Men (Cody Rhodes & Joe Hennig) slide in the ring to hammer Nash from behind, stomping him down to the mat with JR getting out of harm's way. The boos continue and as Shawn turns round to see Nash being pummelled, Triple H clubs him from behind. Rebecca looks really worried for her husband as The King of Kings & The King's Men hammer & stomp The Heartbreak Kid & Big Sexy. With Nash down, Trips, Cody & Hennig all circle Shawn when Bryan Danielson bursts down the ramp to a pop, seemingly coming to the aid of the man who trained him. Danielson slides in the ring and shows no fear, knocking down Cody before going for Hennig. Nash gets back up too and helps him out, going after Trips as Shawn gets back up too and catches Cody with a super kick to a big roar from the San Antonio crowd. Michaels looks down at him as Nash floors Trips and Danielson clotheslines Hennig over the top rope with Cody rolling out to the floor.

?: WHOA, HOLD IT RIGHT THERE.

The Raw Head of Authority, Eric Bischoff is standing at the top of the stage, not looking too pleased.

Eric Bischoff: I'm not going t' let things go down like this, but I will allow you to fight later on t'night in our main event. It's going t' be a six man tag team match with Triple H teaming up with Cody Rhodes an' Joe Hennig t' take on Bryan Danielson, Kevin Nash and Shawn Michaels.

***

Shawn Michaels, Bryan Danielson & Kevin Nash

vs Triple H & The King's Men
Triple H didn't have an answer for a while with Danielson flying, and he only just survived a diving headbutt by getting his shoulder up just as the fans thought the ref was about to count to three. Danielson went looking for the LeBell Lock but The King of Kings fought it and swung an elbow back. After making his way back up he caught Danielson as he came back off the ropes with a spinning spinebuster. When it came down to it, it was San Antonio's own, The Heartbreak Kid who'd seized control. Hennig was reeling, and after an inverted atomic drop and a scoop slam, the WWE Champion hit the top rope to the delight of the fans and leaped off with a diving elbow drop. He flipped up to another almighty roar from his hometown fans and started to tune up the band with the crowd joining in, stamping their feet and clapping their hands, but as he burst out of the corner locked & loaded on Hennig when Triple H stormed the ring and tackled Michaels down. He hammered away on his skull, causing the ref to call for the disqualification when everyone else piled in. Nash & Danielson took care of Hennig & Rhodes, and Michaels escaped the Pedigree with a back body drop before super kicking Michaels over the top rope to the absolute delight of the San Antonio crowd as "Sexy Boy" hit. All three men embraced quietly in the ring before Michaels walked over to the apron and asked for a microphone.
Shawn Michaels: First off I wanna thank all you people here for the great reception t'night.

*Big Pop*

Shawn Michaels: Course I wanna thank you two f' being by my side too. I appreciate it.

Michaels turns to the side and slaps hands with both Danielson & Nash.

Shawn Michaels: Now I wanna invite my beautiful wife an' kids here t'night in t' the ring.

Shawn leaves the ring and gives Rebecca a helping hand over the security wall, then lifts his kids over too. They all head into the ring as the angry Triple H & King's Men look on from the ramp with Rebecca and the kids greeting Nash & Danielson.

Shawn Michaels: Hun'er, you might wanna send me home after Wrestlemania but these guys will be at my side two weeks in London when I beat you an' retain my WWE Championship.

There's more cheers as "Sexy Boy" hits again with Michaels staring intently up at The Game, Rhodes & Hennig who stare right back furiously as Michaels then picks up his kids, handing his title to them to hold as Rebecca stands by his side along with Nash & Danielson.

***

Raw (Monday Night)
"Behold the King, the King of Kings..."
A chorus of boos echoes around the arena as a seriously intense Triple H walks out into the arena in jeans and a T-shirt, staring into the crowd with contempt for the fans. He heads off down the ramp, still giving the fans filthy looks the whole way. He climbs the steps and enters the ring, picking a microphone up off the apron. He walks into the centre of the ring and continues staring furiously at the fans as his music stops, bringing out the heat. He turns to look back up at the stage, waiting for the arrival of the WWE Champion with the fans chanting "H-B-K".

"Sexy Boy"
The crowd erupts with a massive pop and the fans jump out of their seats as the WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels walks out to the stage with Kevin Nash. They stop & look down at The King of Kings, both angrily with Trips staring back. They carry on down to the ring and enter the ring with Michaels also picking a microphone up in the process, and the fans continue to go nuts for The Heartbreak Kid as he walks towards The Game, both still staring intensely at each other while Nash leans casually against the pads, watching the tension between them with Michaels' music cutting. The fans continue to chant "H-B-K" with Trips taking a look past Shawn towards Nash.

Triple H: So this tells the story. This tells you how worried Shawn is that he has t' bring Kev' down here with him. Don't worry Shawn, I get it. You have ev'ry right t' be worried. You know like I do that your time as WWE Champion and your career is running out. You know that at Wrestlemania I will beat you and take back my WWE title.

*Major Heat*

Shawn Michaels: Think whatever you want Hun'er. The reason Kev's out here's the reason I brought him back. I don't trust you one bit, but since you left your hired help back there, maybe it's fine you leave us to it Kev'.

Nash walks out of the corner towards Michaels and asks him if he's sure, getting a calm nod from Shawn. Nash accepts it and leaves, giving Trips the eyes first before he walks over to the apron and steps over to the ropes, leaving the ring and heading back up the ramp.

Triple H: You still don't fool me Shawn. You know as well as I do this whole retirement rumour came about from you. You know that when I said I'm going to end your career by beating you within an inch of your life at Wrestlemania, I meant it. You were right t' think that because I will. You wanna cover your back by making it seem like your decision when it's not.

Shawn Michaels: You can think all you want about the rumours about me retiring but any decision I've made or will make has nothing t' do with you. You don't scare me one bit. I know you inside out. There's nothing to be afraid of. I know I'm living inside your head. Most importantly of all, I know through ev'rything else I can beat you and will beat you. That's a promise Jack.

This is a Shawn Michaels you've never faced. We were best friends. No one knows us better than each other, but this is one thing you don't know, you haven't experienced. Mr Wrestlemania isn't just a random name. It's a name I've earned my man by being the man on the grandest stage of them all.

*More Cheers*

Shawn Michaels: This Wrestlemania you're gonna see The Showstopper like you've never seen him before. It's a long time since I've walked into Wrestlemania as the WWE Champion, an' you can bet your ass I'm gonna fight like my life depends on it t' keep it.

*Pop*

Shawn Michaels: I've heard ev'rything you've said about not just taking my title but taking my career. If you wanna beat me this Sunday, that's just what you might have t' do. Whether you can do that Hun'er, I don't think so. You say I'm gonna be carried out. I say I'm gonna walk out the same way I walk in, by myself as the WWE Champion.

Triple H: This is without question the most important match of my career. You, that title and the main event at the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania, not even Mr Wrestlemania will be ready for the pain that I bring. This time Shawn, the show will be stopped. I'll make damn sure of it.

*Major Heat*

Triple H: That is a promise, a promise I can guarantee. I'll have you on your knees begging f' mercy, not that you'll get it. You'll be regretting the decision to have Rebecca, Cameron-n-Cheyenne ringside watching when I beat their husband, their dad into a bloody mess...

Shawn Michaels: ... Talk's cheap. At Wrestlemania I've earned that title along with many others. You can stand there from now 'til Sunday making promises about what's gonna happen, it means nothing. The only thing that matters is when we dance for the first time on the big stage. I know I'm ready. I hope you bring ev'rything you've got. I mean that. Now I've said all I think I need to I think it's time t' call it a night. All that matters now is Sunday. Hun'er, Boston, I'll see you then.

Michaels throws the microphone down and turns round, walking over to the apron when the tron brings up a shot from the back with The King's Men (Cody Rhodes & Joe Hennig) stomping all over Kevin Nash. Triple H's apprentices are pummelling him, and Michaels looks shocked as Hennig now shoves an assortment of poles down on to him. Nash is hurting big time and an angry WWE Champion turns round, clearly blaming the smug Triple H for what's happening backstage, and he drops his title to run at him, taking him down with a Lou Thesz press to a big pop from the Boston crowd. He hammers away at the stunned number one contender, offering no resistance. Michaels stands back up and runs the ropes as The King of Kings desperately makes his way back up, but The Heartbreak Kid comes back at him with a flying forearm smash, getting an even bigger response from the crowd. Both men pick themselves back up and Michaels scoop slams him right back down, heads to the corner and up to the top rope. It's deafening as the WWE Champion leaps off the top for a diving elbow drop. He's pumped beyond belief and stands up to a huge roar, retreating to the corner to tune up the band as the groggy Triple H claws his way back up. The fans join in, clapping their hands and stomping their feet, but the cheers turn to boos as Rhodes & Hennig burst down the ramp, distracting Michaels.

He turns to knock Hennig off the apron with a right hand and then Cody, but Triple H nails him from behind to a ton of heat. Cody & Hennig slide in the ring and stomp him like they did Nash with Trips watching as they mug him to a barrage of boos. He orders them to pick him up, and they do with The Game getting right in his face, telling him his career's over and he pulls him into his body for a Pedigree, driving his head into the canvas to even more heat in front of the livid crowd. The King of Kings stands up with no remorse on his face whatsoever with Cody & Joe also looking down coldly at Shawn, and they watch as their mentor leaves the ring, looking under the apron to pull out his sledgehammer to even more heat. The crowd crap all over Trips, Rhodes & Hennig as they again pull Michaels up, this time with no resistance. He's all over the place as The Game stares furiously at him with evil intentions, sizing him up, getting ready to take his head off. He nods at Rhodes & Hennig who push Shawn at him into a shot to the skull with the sledgehammer to a crazy amount of heat, boos echoing around the arena as The King and his men stand over the fallen WWE Champion, staring down at him lying their motionless. Cody turns suddenly and picks up a microphone, handing it to Trips who drops his sledgehammer, kneeling down alongside the busted open Mr. Wrestlemania.

Triple H: Your time as champion, your career is over. This is the last time you'll ever be seen on Raw Shawn.

*Major Heat*

The Game looks to the side and sees the WWE Championship on the mat and walks over to pick it up before turning back towards Shawn, still flat on his back.

Triple H: I'll see you Sunday Mr Wrestlemania.

The King of Kings stands over the WWE Champion alongside Rhodes & Hennig and lifts his title up in the air to a chorus of boos from the capacity crowd with Michaels out cold and the Wrestlemania sign looming large above them as Raw comes to a close.
*The Main Event*



WWE Championship
Shawn Michaels (c) w/Kevin Nash vs. Triple H w/The King's Men

Last 15+ Minutes:
Triple H makes his way back up to his feet, focused as hell with Michaels' refusal to stay down grinding on him more & more. Shawn picks himself back up again with the angry challenger looking right at him. The challenger grabs H.B.K. by the wrist and fires him into the ropes, sending him into the ropes, and Shawn comes running back into a back body drop. Michaels' back hits the mat hard and The King of Kings stares down with utter contempt at him. Now he turns to the side and runs into the ropes, coming back for a JUMPING KNEE DROP!.... Michaels rolls out of the way to a pop from the crowd.

He makes his way up to his knees as The Game picks himself back up as well with Rhodes & Hennig looking on nervously. They should be as he walks intently towards Shawn and misses with wild clothesline. Shawn ducks it and lifts Trips off his feet as he turns round into an inverted atomic drop. The challenger hobbles around on the mat and Michaels has the fans behind him as he grabs his rival's neck and takes him down with a SWINGING NECKBREAKER!!..... There are more cheers from the adoring fans of the WWE Champion as he gets some momentum of his own going, worrying The King's Men on the outside. They look on nervously as The Showstopper reaches to the side and hooks their mentor's leg to make the cover.....

1.....

2.....

No, The Game gets his shoulder up! Shawn sits up slightly disappointed but he uses the chance to regroup. Cody & Joe offer some encouragement to Triple H as he starts to sit up. The WWE Champion has to respond & does. With Nash watching closely in his corner, Shawn stands back up and walks over to the ropes, stepping through them on to the apron. He climbs up to the dizzy heights of the top rope, getting a positive response from the crowd. Trips doesn't see Shawn as he gets up and turns to face him, and Michaels comes off the top for a DIVING DOUBLE AXE HANDLE!.....

The tide is turning in the champ's favour, much to the approval of the English crowd. They look on as The King of Kings picks himself up off the mat with Michaels ready to strike, and he does with a LEG FEED ENZUIGIRI!!..... Trips falls back and Cody's looking worried, running his hands up to the side of his head as Shawn crawls across on his knees to hook the leg of Triple H with the fans counting along with the referee.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Shoulder up from The Game! There's disappointment in the stands, and as Shawn leans back on his knees. He takes it well though and coolly makes his way back up. Again he walks into the corner, turning back to see his rival dragging himself up to his knees. The Heartbreak Kid grabs the top rope and uses them to sling himself up on to the second rope, and now the top one, looking back to see The Game getting back up. The fans are cheering in anticipation, and as Trips walks into the corner, Michaels leap off, flipping back in midair for an ASAI MOONSAULT!!..... He hits it, taking Trips down and holding on for another cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

The challenger kicks out, again disappointing a lot of the London crowd. Cody & Joe applaud their mentor's resolve and Cody offers some more vocal support, really feeling the nerves. Shawn sits up and sees Big Sexy in his corner giving him a simple cool nod of the head. This match is in his hands at the moment and he looks to keep it that way. He & Trips pick themselves up off the canvas and Michaels stomps him in the gut, now tries for an Irish whip. It's reversed and H.B.K. hits the ropes, coming back into a KITCHEN SINK FROM THE GAME!!..... Trips brings his rival's momentum to a grinding halt, and he does it with a stern look of pure anger. He's not satisfied with that though and reaches down to bring Shawn right back up. The challenger sends Shawn into the corner and runs right in at him, but Michaels grabs the top rope with both hands, and launches himself up and over the incoming Triple H. Trips has no time to recover as Shawn rolls him up.....

1.....

2.....

.....

Kick out! Some of the fans thought that was it. It's not though and they both race their way back up. Triple H misses again with a wild clothesline out of the corner and The Headliner reacts quickly to scoop him up off his feet and slam him down into the mat. Michaels is snatching the momentum right back and turns to the ropes again, stepping on to the apron and climbs up to the summit with his opponent laying beneath him not moving. The fans cheer him up there again, and he lifts his arms up, getting his balance, now leaps off for a DIVING SPLASH!!..... He hits it and lands on Trips' chest to a big pop! The champ reaches across and grabs Trips' leg to make another cover attempt.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!

Triple H kicks out again! Shawn leans back taking it fairly calmly as he's denied the win again. Cody again claps his mentor, and The King of Kings rolls on to his side and crawls across the mat to the ropes. Shawn stands back up and watches as Trips now uses the ropes to help get back on his feet, but as he turns round, Michaels storms across the mat to clothesline him over the top and down to the floor. The fans are liking that, but Shawn doesn't take his eye off the ball. He watches Triple H trying to get back up right away, and the WWE Champion grabs the top rope, using it to launch himself over himself with a SLINGSHOT CROSS BODY!!.....

Michaels takes down The Game and they both hit the floor to a big pop from the London crowd. Shawn is back up quickly and throws his arms up into the air to get the crowd going, and they do. He slides back in the ring briefly, sliding right back out to break the referee's count. He watches his rival getting up to his knees. Mr. Wrestlemania gives him a helping hand and sends him towards the steel steps, but Triple H reverses it and sends MICHAELS CRASHING INTO THE STEPS!!!..... The top step's knocked off and Michaels slumps down to the floor with a remorseless Triple H watching. The challenger turns and rolls temporarily back into the ring, only to break the count.

He's got evil intentions as he walks menacingly towards Shawn and he drives his boot down on top of Shawn's throat, choking the WWE Champion. The referee doesn't like it and joins them on the floor, ordering The Game to stop, and reluctantly he does, giving the ref a dirty look in the process. He bends down and brings Shawn up off the floor, pulling him away from the steps to send him crashing into the ringpost, getting more boos from the crowd. He turns towards the crowd without a care in the world, now walks back towards the fallen champion. He drags Shawn back up and tosses him back in the ring, now slides back in himself with control of the contest swinging back in his favour.

He stands up and looks coldly into the crowd, getting a whole host of boos thrown at him, not that it bothers him one bit. He looks down at The Showstopper dragging himself up to his feet, and the look of fury in the eyes of the challenger is there for all to see. He bends down and brings him back up to send him hard into the corner, so hard that Michaels comes right back out, and The King of Kings is right there to meet him with a FALLING CLOTHESLINE!..... The champion falls to the mat again but he's dragged back up again by The Game.

Triple H lifts him up off his feet around the waist and runs into the corner, driving Michaels' back into the pads again. Michaels winces in pain and the challenger turns out of the corner to slam Shawn down into the mat with a modified SPINEBUSTER!!..... Cody & Joe are looking on confidently with smiles on their faces as The Game stands back up, staring down intensely at his former best friend writing around on the mat. Trips taunts him to get up, and slowly Shawn does try to get back up, clearly hurting. Triple H backs away from him, getting ready for something.

He steps back into the ropes, bounces off them and runs at Michaels for another clothesline, but Michaels ducks it, and both turn round in a hurry, LEG FEED ENZUIGIRI FROM H.B.K.!!..... Triple H ducks that, surprising the crowd too. Both men try to get back up as quick as they can. Triple H grabs Michaels' wrist and sends him towards the ropes, reversed by the champion who sends Trips into the ropes instead. Shawn ducks his head and Triple H runs back to take him down with a RUNNING NECKBREAKER!!..... Shawn's back on the mat and this time The King of Kings does make a cover, hooking his rival's leg as the ref makes the count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Shawn gets the shoulder up, met by a pop from the London crowd. It doesn't go down well with the intense challenger, looking into the crowd as he stands back up. He turns back into the ropes, comes back off them for a POINTED KNEE DROP!..... It lands, and with Michaels still down, the challenger shifts round to his feet and lifts his legs up off the mat, and here it comes, FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK FROM THE GAME!!!..... Michaels kicks up at Trips as he turns, sending him crashing head first into the corner. The fans cheer as Shawn climbs his way back up to his feet, still hurting as Triple H too stands back up, turning back towards Michaels, and the WWE Champion runs at him, into a stomp to the gut.

Trips grabs him by the back of head and turns to smash it into the top turnbuckle. Michaels falls back on to the mat, and The King of Kings is a man on a mission right now, furiously glaring down at the man who took his WWE Championship in the Royal Rumble match. The Game goes into unchartered territory, pulling himself on to the top rope, standing up as Michaels gets to his knees and dives on to the ropes. Cheers come from the crowd as Trips falls on to the top turnbuckle, sitting there as Michaels regroups and now climbs on to the second rope, jumps up and HEADSCISSORS TAKEDOWN OFF THE TOP FROM THE WWE CHAMPION!!.....

That helps get the crowd going as both men hit the mat, but Michaels crawls across to the corner again. He drags himself up in the corner and climbs up to the top rope with Triple H still down on the mat behind him. Shawn has his back to his rival, steadying himself on the top with the crowd cheering, willing him up there with Rhodes & Hennig starting to worry, only able to watch as Shawn leaps into action with a MOONSAULT OFF THE TOP!!..... He comes crashing down on to the challenger and reaches to the side, grabbing his leg to make a cover with the fans counting along with the ref.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Trips kicks out, getting some boos from the disappointed fans inside Wembley. The WWE Champion picks himself back up and heads back to the corner, somewhat gingerly still, turning back to see his opponent making his way up to his knees. Shawn though is feeling the adrenaline now and starts to tune up the band to a massive roar inside the sold out Wembley Stadium. They respond with huge cheers and stand up out of their seats. They stomp their feet and clap too with Cody & Joe looking on panicking like mad. Triple H gets back up and Michaels comes tearing out of the corner for the SUPER KICK!!!..... Ducked by Triple H and both men turn to face each other, STO FROM THE GAME!!.....

Triple H puts a halt to Michaels' comeback and takes control again, standing back up slowly, so focused as he just watches the suffering champion try to do the same. The Heartbreak Kid to his credit fights his way back up, and the challenger slips behind him to apply a SLEEPER!!..... He's got it locked in and Michaels has nowhere to go. He's already struggling but The King of Kings is turning it up a level, and there's not much fight left from Shawn, quickly dropping to his side, and now to his knees. Nash watches looking concerned now while Rhodes & Hennig both look sure they're about to see their mentor regain the title. Shawn's fading fast and the referee grabs his arm, lifts up in the air and lets go.

It falls back down to his side and the referee lifts it again with the fans willing Shawn to hold on. Down it falls again and Michaels is just seconds from losing his title. The fans respond, getting even louder as they support the champion, and for the third & final time the referee lifts Shawn's arm. He lets it go and Michaels holds on, bringing incredible energy into the crowd as he fights his way up to one knee, and now up to his feet with the crowd going crazy. Cody & Joe are shocked, as is Triple H. He tries to hold on, worrying as Michaels lifts him up off the mat and takes him down with a SIDE SUPLEX!!..... The fans are loving it as Shawn keeps fighting back.

He & Triple H climb their way back up to their feet and Shawn turns back to run the ropes, comes back off them and ducks a high knee lift. Trips turns round and gets chopped across the chest, bringing out the "WOO"'s in the crowd. Michaels puts him on the back foot and grabs his arm for an Irish whip, but it's reversed into a short-arm clothesline by The Game. Down goes Michaels but not for long. He's getting right back up. Triple H helps him back up and sends him into the ropes, ducking his head as Michaels comes back, SUNSET FLIP OUT OF NOWHERE!!.....

1.....

2.....

.....

No!

Kick out and both men pull themselves back up. Triple H grabs Shawn and sends him into the ropes, but the WWE Champion ducks a wild clothesline and runs through, hits the ropes and comes back for a FLYING FOREARM SMASH!..... Triple H ducks and Michaels takes down the referee instead. Michaels is shocked as he slowly stands up from his knees, looking at the referee flat on his back. Triple H doesn't care one bit though and pulls Shawn into an abdominal stretch. Michaels counters quickly though with a hip toss. Triple H races back up to his feet and is scoop slammed into the mat to a cheer from the crowd. Michaels fights fire with fire and heads to the ropes, stepping on to the apron.

Up he goes to the top rope and Cody runs round the ring on the outside to get at him, but Nash blocks him off, giving him the eyes. Cody backs off reluctantly as Michaels looks down, now calm with the fans cheering. Trips is still down and Shawn leaps off the top, DIVING ELBOW DROP CONNECTS!!..... Michaels kips back up and the crowd is on fire now as The Heartbreak Kid backs up into the corner to tune up the band once again. Hennig jumps on the apron and Shawn runs across to knock him down. Cody does the same and Michaels runs at him, but Cody jumps down smiling. He turns round though on the floor and Nash takes his head off with a big boot!

The crowd is electric, but as Michaels turns back round, Trips is almost back up. The Showstopper gets ready, watches Trips turn and explodes at him for SWEET CHIN MUSIC!!!..... Trips ducks down and low blows the WWE Champion to a chorus of boos that ring around Wembley Stadium. Nash is furious on the outside, watching as Shawn tolls around on the mat and The Game stands back up without an ounce of regret. He soaks up the heat, not giving a crap what the fans think, and seeing the ref's still down, he walks over to the ropes and steps through them. He steps down on to the floor and looks under the apron, pulling out his trusty sledgehammer, getting more boos thrown at him as he slides back in the ring.

The Heartbreak Kid claws his way back up with the crowd trying to warn him that Triple H is armed with the sledgehammer, all set to take his head off. The Game is looking fierce, itching to strike as Nash watches nervously. Shawn turns round and Trips walks towards him, sledgehammer above his head, SUPER KICK FROM MICHAELS!!!..... Last ditch attack from Shawn and he falls on top of Trips who's flat out, reaches to the side to hook a leg, but the ref's still down. The crowd will him to count but there's little response from him, slowly coming round but he can't see what's going on. Shawn sits up, absolutely devastated. The King of Kings turns and crawls across the mat towards the ropes.

Shawn grabs the sledgehammer and slides it out of the ring, now turns to watch Trips dragging himself up by the ropes. He turns round, still groggy, and Shawn runs at him, DIVING CROSS BODY AND IT TAKES BOTH MEN OVER THE TOP AND DOWN TO THE FLOOR!!..... Shawn crawls across to the Spanish announce table, the far left and he climbs up it. He strips it and grabs hold one of the monitors to more cheers from the crowd as Triple H unwittingly stands back up. He turns round and Shawn walks towards him with it, but Trips kicks him in the groin to more heat as Michaels drops to his knees and the floor. The King of Kings is playing dirty, not that it's surprising anyone.

He lets the crowd know he doesn't care what they think with dirty looks before reaching down to bring Shawn back up, and he lifts him up on to the table. Up he climbs as the Spanish announcers jump up out of their seats and move to safety. Triple H climbs up on the table and drags Michaels up into place for a PEDIGREE!!!..... There's so much heat for the challenger as he turns into the crowd, all set to send Shawn through the table, but Shawn comes to life, dropping to one knee to low blow The Game. The fans love it as Shawn plays his rival at his own game, watching him drop down on to the table. Michaels slowly climbs down off the table and takes the time to regroup.

He walks back to the apron and climbs back on the apron, turning back to see Triple H lying on the table. A light goes on above his head and the WWE Champion climbs the ropes to an enormous roar inside Wembley, all watching as he gets to the top and steadies himself up there. It's deafening, and he takes one last look, now FLIES THROUGH THE LONDON SKY..... HUGE ELBOW DROP THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE!!!.....Wembley is full of cheers for the WWE Champion, not that he can appreciate it as he & Triple H lie on the floor. The Game is out and Michaels is hurt too, writhing around as the referee too tries to get to his knees in the ring.

Michaels crawls across to the apron, struggling to do so as he drags himself up the apron and back into the ring. Slowly there's sign of life in the challenger and Hennig tries to help him up, dragging him up and to the apron. With everything he has, Triple H rolls back in the ring. H.B.K. is right on him and pulls him away from the ropes by his feet to apply the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK!!!..... The crowd erupts in cheers again for Michaels as he starts to torture his bitter nemesis who's in absolute agony trying to hold on. Can he hold on? He might not. He's in agony, screaming out and telling the ref "no" he doesn't want to quit. He's in real pain but holds on somehow, fighting for the title he craves.

Hennig shouts out encouragement from the outside. He starts to dig deep does The Game, trying to drag himself back across the mat. There are some nerves in the crowd as he shifts back, but Michaels keeps it locked in. The challenger keeps the fight going and gets himself closer, reaching back with everything he has, trying to grab the ropes. He's so desperate and so close now with chants of "NO" coming from the crowd, but he reaches back again and grabs the ropes! It's met by a whole host of boos from the capacity crowd. Shawn has to let the hold go looking so disappointed. He stands back up and we get a shot of Shawn's wife, Rebecca looking on praying for her husband.

Their kids are sat alongside her as the WWE Champion turns to watch his rival dragging himself back up the ropes. The Game turns back around and Shawn runs at him, into an extended elbow. It knocks him back, off balance, and as he turns, Trips runs out and hits a JUMPING HIGH KNEE!.....Down goes Shawn, but he's getting right back up. He turns though into a FACEBREAKER KNEE SMASH!!..... Triple H is fired-up now with Shawn in a spin, turns into a NECKBREAKER!!..... Trips turns himself round and makes the cover.....

1.....

2.....

.....

NO!!

Shawn gets the shoulder up to the relief of the crowd & Rebecca. Trips isn't happy at all but stands right back up, bringing Shawn with him too, and he fires him into the ropes, and back he comes into a SPINNING SPINEBUSTER!!..... The momentum is swinging back the way of the challenger, and he stands back up throwing both his arms back and up in the air to a ton of heat. The nerves are building in the crowd as the weary WWE Champion rolls on to his side. His title reign could be about to come to an end as he courageously drags himself back up to his feet with Triple H lurking.

The Showstopper turns round to face his opponent. He's kicked in the gut, dragged into Trips' body, set up for the PEDIGREE!!!..... The King of Kings stares intently into the crowd, giving Shawn time to counter with a back body drop. The crowd breathe another massive sigh of relief as both men try to drag themselves back up to their feet. Shawn's gassed but ducks a wild right hand and explodes with a SUPER KICK!!!..... A massive pop breaks out and Shawn falls on top of Triple H as the crowd & ref count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

.....

NO!!!

There's disbelief as Triple H just manages to get his shoulder up. Shawn can't believe it, throwing his head forward into his hands. Rebecca can't believe it either, raising her hands into her face. Shawn's absolutely gutted but stands back up, slowly walking towards the corner, still hurting. Again he tunes up the band with the crowd joining in as The King of Kings clawing his way up to his knees. His boys watch on shitting themselves on the outside, and as The Game makes it back up, Shawn explodes out of the corner, SUPER KICK!!!..... Trips ducks it, stomps Shawn in the gut, PEDIGREE BY THE GAME!!!..... The challenger hit it and goes right for the cover with Wembley stunned.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

.....

NO!!!

Michaels gets the shoulder up and Wembley goes crazy!! Triple H leans back in absolute fury, staring down at Michaels coming round. Rebecca claps but The King of Kings is furious, breathing heavily. He stands back up seething, and he goes for Shawn's legs, this time applying the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK!!!..... How much more can Shawn take? He's taken so much that this could finish him off, and it shows. He throws his arms up, screaming out in agony. It's tough for Rebecca to watch, and for the fans too with Triple H putting so much pressure on her husband. The Game sits up too, staring down at Shawn and he begs him to tap, screaming at him to give up and that he's done.

That pisses Shawn off and he fights it with all he has, finding something deep down to fight through the pain. The crowd chant "H.B.K." over & over, trying to help him, and they do as he scrapes & claws with everything he has inside to get towards the ropes. Triple H tries to stop him, but Shawn is so determined to get there, and he does with one massive reach full of desperation & courage. The fans unite in huge cheers, but Trips doesn't let the hold go yet, now does at the count of four. Boos ring out for him as he stands up looking absolutely livid. He stares down at Rebecca as he drags her husband's almost lifeless body up off the mat and away from the ropes.

He grabs Shawn by both sides of his head and tells him to stay down. He shoves him back down and goes for the legs, applying an INVERTED INDIAN DEATHLOCK!!!..... This doesn't look good with Trips turning on to his belly to add to Shawn's pain. The crowd chant his name again, but Shawn looks all but done. The fans do all they can to support him but he's almost helpless, can't get anywhere, aimlessly reaching his arms out. He's nowhere near the ropes though and both Cody & Hennig watch Shawn struggling. They enjoy it, smirking at Shawn, but it gets a response from Shawn, again trying to find something left in the tank, and he does.

He drives his claws into the mat and drags himself slowly across the mat, wiping the smiles off the faces of The King's Men. The crowd get louder in their support of the WWE Champion as he fights with every last inch of fight he has. Triple H holds on, trying desperately to stop him getting to the ropes, but The Showstopper gets closer, and closer still. The fans are so loud right now, praying for Shawn to get to the ropes, and he does to one of the biggest cheers of the night. The Game shakes his head but keeps the hold locked in for the extra four seconds before letting it go.

Michaels just throws himself on to the ropes, absolutely wrecked. It hurts Rebecca to see him like that, and Nash walks round to give him some words of encouragement. Rhodes & Hennig encourage Trips to finish the job, and he goes to do just that. He drags Shawn up and away from the ropes with no resistance from the champion as he's pulled into position for the PEDIGREE!!!..... Triple H wastes no time and hits it, driving Shawn's head down into the mat. That's got to be it and The King of Kings turns him over on to his back with the stunned crowd watching the ref's count.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

.....

NOOOOOO!!!

Shawn just lifts his shoulder up and Wembley erupts again with another huge explosion of cheers. Triple H is beyond shocked as he turns & stares furiously at the referee, getting told it's a two count. The face of the challenger scrunches up and he's losing it. He looks like he's going to burst, the face getting redder with steam looking like it might come out of his ears. What he has got to do? That's what he looks like he's thinking about with Michaels still flat out on his back, eyes barely registering. Trips just stares down at him with the rage threatening to boil over. He sits there just glaring at him, and Shawn lifts his head up, clearly on another planet right now. The Game stands back up and stares into the crowd again, getting so much heat from them as the resilient as hell WWE Champion tries to get up to his knees.

Triple H taunts him, goading him to get back up. Somehow Michaels gets to his knees, but he struggles to stand up and keep his balance. The determined challenger watches Shawn turn to face him and mouths "it's over" to him before pulling his head down into place for another PEDIGREE!!!..... Shawn's set up and Triple H looks over at Rebecca in the front row, but Michaels reacts, sweeping Triple H's legs to a big pop. He lifts the legs up and swivels round to SLINGSHOT THE GAME INTO THE CORNER!!..... Triple H's head hits the top turnbuckle and he turns round in a real spin, SWEET CHIN MUSIC!!!..... Michaels got it, using everything he had and he just falls on top of The Game as the ref makes the count with the crowd counting too.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

......

NOOOOOO!!!

Oh my god, Triple H just got his shoulder up! The fans are in a state of shock, as is Michaels as he slowly sits up looking totally spent. The lights come back on for Triple H too and Michaels crawls on his knees towards the corner as The King of Kings slowly drags himself back up. Shawn uses the ropes in the corner to help get back up and he turns round to see his rival almost back up. The champion tunes up the band, not as enthusiastic as normal, absolutely exhausted and in agony but the crowd join in too, clapping their hands and stamping their feet. Triple H doesn't know where he is as he gets up and turns towards Shawn, and H.B.K. comes flying out of the corner, BOOM, SWEET CHIN MUSIC CONNECTS!!!..... Down goes Triple H and Shawn drops to knees, rolling to hook Triple H's leg as the ref makes the count with the fans counting out loud too.....

1.....

2.....

.....

..... 3?

.....

YES, 3!!!

Lilian Garcia:
The winner of this bout, and still WWE CHAMPION... THE HEARTBREAK KID SHAWN MICHAELS!.

The bell rings to an almighty pop with "Sexy Boy" blasting out too. Rebecca jumps out of her seat and applauds her husband too, as do their kids. Daddy stays down though, still knackered and emotional as he drops his head into his hands, and as he comes back up he's crying. The referee brings him his WWE Championship and helps him up to his feet, and now hands him the WWE title. Shawn accepts it and cries looking at it before lifting it up into the air getting his arm raised. He's still crying as everyone inside Wembley applauds the Hall of Famer and WWE Champion for an incredible effort. Triple H rolls out of the ring, helped up by Rhodes & Hennig. They help him up and take him to the back as Michaels drops to his knees clutching the title in the ring, still in tears.

Nash walks round towards Rebecca and helps her over the security wall. He lifts up little Cameron & Cheyenne too and they join Rebecca in entering the ring. Shawn stands up and hugs his wife, and the kids join in too as Nash climbs up on to the apron. He smiles seeing the Michaels' family hug and claps too, as do the crowd. Michaels kneels down to kiss both his kids and Nash walks over, giving his friend a big hug too, and then Rebecca as Michaels lifts both his kids up, enjoying the moment with his family when Bryan Danielson, Michael Shane (his cousin, Matt Bentley) & Brian Kendrick walk down to the ring clapping. They enter the ring and bring a smile to Shawn's face. They all take it turns going up to him and hugging him.
Jim Ross: The rumours have been rife for a while now folks but I had the opportunity to speak one-on-one with Shawn Michaels earlier this weekend, and he told me that he would be retiring after t'night-n-that this would indeed be his last match. He told me he had told a few other people close to him, probably the ones in the ring with him right now, and what a moment it is for one of the best this business will ever see in 'The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels. There's no better way for him to go out than the way he has t'night in the main event of the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania.

Jerry Lawler: Oh no doubt about it King. We've had the privilege of watching some legends over the years, but there's no one better than that man right there in Shawn Michaels.

The WWE Champion is hoisted up into the air by his friends for him to lift the title too with his family all watching & applauding him, and both Jim Ross & Jerry Lawler stand up to applaud him too. The Heartbreak Kid is still tearing up slightly with the fans still there to celebrate his incredible & courageous victory in his last match as a professional wrestler.
Jim Ross: It's fitting that Shawn Michaels will end his career as a champion, and on no better stage than this. He proved once again why he's referred to as Mr Wrestlemania with a performance to challenge any on what has been an unbelievable 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania here at Wembley Stadium. We've had a fantastic night here in London. I'm sure all of you who've joined us have too. We'd like to thank you once again for joining us as you have the last 25 years for making this event what it is. We hope there'll be at least another 25 years t' come. For t'night though that's all I'm afraid. We thank you again for joining us. Take care, and good night from London.

*End of Show*
Christian won Money in the Bank
Beth Phoenix defeated Queen Kong to become the Unified Diva's Champion
The Empire defeated The UK Pack, TJ Wilson & Natalya Neidhart to win The Battle of Britain
Paul London & Brian Kendrick defeated Power & Perfection and Mexican Royalty to retain the WWE Tag Team titles
Sheamus defeated Rey Mysterio to retain the Intercontinental Championship
Edge defeated The Rock
Randy Orton defeated CM Punk to become the new World Heavyweight Champion
John Cena defeated The Undertaker and ended 'the streak'
Shawn Michaels defeated Triple H to retain the WWE Championship
_____________________________________________​

Note: I was unsure initially of which way to go with the main event between The Undertaker/John Cena match and the WWE Championship match. Given that The Undertaker lost to Cena and was carried out of Wrestlemania, I decided that it would be wrong to end the show on that note. The fans there would be leaving right after feeling flat and probably pissed that they'd seen Cena end the streak. That's why I went with Shawn retaining the title to end it on a feel good note instead. I just felt it was right to make that clear. I'm sure the overwhelming majority will understand anyway.

:nsPlease Don't Post Any One Line/Paragraph Spoilers Please!!

 
#24 · (Edited)
Bradley's RAW Review

Nice to see you are keeping the same No Mercy results, I won't be able to review extensively as it is only in recap.

A nice arrogant opening promo from the new champ, which was the right choice, a good few words but I don't think Orton should have mentioned Hulk Hogan because Orton has never beaten him.
MARK OUT!!! A nice choice of words for Punk and it sends a shiver down my spine. I am smelling Punk/Orton in the works which is only a good thing. It's a massive shame we won't see a unification bout but that was probably for the best. I didn't like Vince acting as a face towards the end and Punk not in action sucks but this was still a momentous promo.

Nice to see the extremists in action and with some direction, most BTB'ers dump Stevie so it was nice to see him involved in the pinfall and you have 4 potential tag teams there already so you're set in that department.

Nice intense promo from HHH but he doesn't invoke his rematch clause yet? I am hoping he is one of the choices in the WWE title picture.

Decent Kennedy promo, could have been longer but I already sense a great rivalry but it should have ended as a no contest to set up a gimmick match but nontheless I look forward to an amazing feud.

Slightly weird here between Santino and Maria and hopefully you use Santino as more than a jobber as we both know he can be so much more.

Interesting between Morrison and Dreamer, it seems you are using the former ECW guys really well but Punk and Dreamer seem to be in 2 different storylines now.

The third match came out of nowhere but yet again you are developing the feuds well and with ease, kudos again.

I think Burke could be used a lot better than this but you definitely got over his cocky attitude.

A brilliantly worded promo from Orton but I feel it could have gone on longer which would have made it golden, anyway a good way to get over cheap heat and the Cyber Sunday picks and let's see where you roll with this.

Nice to see Mickie win and Victoria attack her at the end, seems to me like you have a fantastic women's division, which you showed in that match.

I am getting confused with the past tense a little now, it should be 'himself' not 'him' anyway typical cocky promo but it seemed worthless bar the funny moment at the end and I see Kennedy/Vince breweing.

A good match at the end, could have been slightly longer but the ending was inevitable with Orton intefering but you could be in deep if HHH isn't voted for by the readers because he would have nothing to do.


Overall a good recap and you are really developing some interesting storylines. 8/10
 
#33 · (Edited)
Hey Nige, I just wanted to say welcome back and good luck with this I think it should be good.

Heyman Deciple's RAW REVIEW

Orton-Punk-Vince: Good opening segment especially just coming off the pay per view with Randy Orton gloating about the fact that he's the WWE champion and then out comes CM Punk for a confrontation with Randy Orton. Good stuff.

8 Man Tag: This was a solid match and a nice win for Kendrick, London, Dreamer, and Stevie. Plus I really liked that Tommy Dreamer got deciding pinfall for his team.

Vince-Triple H: Solid segment here with Triple H obviously upset over at what happened at No Mercy and this set up the No Disqualification match between Triple H and Umaga later in the show.

Hardy vs. Kennedy: Solid promo from Mr. Kennedy leading into the match. The match itself was good and I was really happy with Mr. Kennedy getting the win.

Punk-Morrison: This was good as Punk along with Dreamer and Richards are confronted by John Morrison. I liked how Morrison was being all cocky and was then kinda put in his place by Punk and Tommy Dreamer.

Maria-Santino-Torrie: This was great, as Santino talked to Maria as she was getting ready for the Divas battle royal he then starts hitting on Torrie Wilson, she turns him down and he bumps into her knocking her down. This was really good and sets up Santino as a really good heel.

Cody vs. Carlito: This was a nice upset win for Cody over Carlito and I really enjoyed what happened after the match with Carlito leaving Cody laying.

Burke-Val & Duggan: This I found to be very entertaining as Elijah Burke is great as the superior arrogant heel.

Orton Interview: Solid Interview here with Randy Orton as we get his thoughts on the possibilities for Cyber Sunday.

Divas Battle Royal: This featured some solid Divas action and it was great to see Mickie James pick up the win, even though when it was over she was attacked and hit with the Widows peak by Victoria.

Kennedy-Regal-Hornswaggle-Vince: Kennedy knocking over Hornswaggle and his reaction to it was just great. Kennedy rules.

Triple H vs. Umaga: Good main event with Umaga picking up the win with some help from Randy Orton.

This was a good show, I give it 7 out of 10.
 
#208 ·
Nige's SmackDown! Feedback

~This is my first time ever reading one of your shows, so bare with me

It was big to kick things off by announcing who the GM was. I was a little surprised to see that it was Regal. I figured that after Shane went on and on about how this person was great, it would turn out to be Stephanie, or even him. Regal is a good choice, but make sure you develop something out of him. Right now on Raw, he doesn't really have a character, and it's hard to tell whether he's heel or face. He can be pretty good at both, so guide him down a path. I was a little surprised for Kennedy to come down, but it was realistic that he wanted to be in a match, because 'he's the greatest superstar in the Survivor Series Elimination Match.' It seems as if you're building Shane up as a face, or maybe you're just giving him face moments. A lot of people actually admire Shane, so work with that if you have to. It was realistic for Kennedy to ask for a match, and then end up against somebody like The Undertaker. I can see him attacking Taker during his match against Finlay later on.

~Harry Smith debuting soon? I hope playing this vignette on SmackDown means he's going to SmackDown, because it would be better for him to start there, and not on Raw, imo.

I think that it's a good choice to bring back the Cruiserweight Title. I think that you can book it right, unlike WWE did in it's last few months. You have some good talent, but WWE never capitalized, I mean, they put the title on Hornswoggle, and I know that you're a way better booker than that. I thought maybe a Cruiserweight tag team match would have been better than a Fatal Four Way, but the match was entertaining, and entertaining=ratings. It was a toss up for who would win, and I actually liked that Super Crazy won. It gave him a little bit of momentum, and I can see him winning at Survivor Series, and then feuding with Chavo.

~An interesting rivalry developing here with these teams. I guess there's a match between these teams at Survivor Series. (just checked, yep:p) Pretty interesting, but I think that the heels will pull off the victory at the Series.

~Orton sounded too desperate. Orton's never afraid of losing, and is always cocky and thinking that he'll win. I don't really think Orton would sort of discuss a plan, or whatever you want to call it -- it just was unrealistic and wasn't his character at all. MVP wasn't that cocky either, which made him out of character as well. This wasn't the greatest segment.

I figured Smith would win, because of what happened earlier. It was a solid match, and Masters did a good job of jobbing to him. Smith looks like he's a technical wrestler, imo, but that's just me. He's pretty easy to write, because his moves are pretty basic. You did a good job of writing this match.

~Whatever Shawn has instore for tonight sounds pretty bid, and you hyped it up perfectly. Great job here.

I guess this is why the other Cruiserweight match was a Fatal Four Way, and not a tag team match. Jeter and Sydal built some momentum here, but I'm glad that Dykstra and Noble didn't look weak. This match was pretty solid for the most part. The Jeter Kick is a solid finisher, and will definitely put the lights out on several opponents.

~Harry Smith getting put in the match was pretty bid, especially since he's just beginning his career. I think he'll get eliminated early at Survivor Series, unless you're pushing him, because then he'll end up being the Sole Survivor.

~Kane's out? I guess it's a good way to get rid of him if you have nothing really planned for him.

I was really looking forward to Undertaker vs. Finlay. The finish was realistic, and it helped the build-up to the tag team match at Survivor Series. There weren't a lot of big moments in this match, which was upsetting, because I expected a whole lot of 'em from these two. The only really big move was The ChokeSlam. The other's were just sort of big, if you know what I mean. Just try and add in more big moves.

~Orton still wasn't in character. It was a little annoying, but I got over it after there was almost a brawl between Porter and Kennedy. It's going to be interesting to see what happens at Survivor Series.

Umaga definitely is going to be hyped up as the strongest man in the World Title Match at Survivor Series, no doubt about it. It's fine though that you're building him up as really strong, because it's Triple Threat, and there's more than one opponent. It was realistic for Batista to attack Umaga like that, and then to include Edge in the segment was the icing on the cake. I liked how you gave Edge some momentum, just like Umaga, but they're both getting the momentum off of Batista. Hopefully he builds some momentum next week.

This match was by far MOTN. It was priceless, and you wrote it perfectly. It had some major moments, which was awesome. Undertaker and Finlay coming out was predictable, but realistic. Chris Jericho returning was absolutely shocking! I didn't think he would return after Michaels did. It was a little bit of overkill to have Jericho and Michaels to return so close together. It was a great match though.

Overall this show was really good. You're an established booker, and it shows in your shows. Survivor Series is shaping up nicely, and I'll review it.
 
#382 ·
Doddsy's Raw Review
Nice opening segment for the 15th anniversary, wonder if Vince will stay like this or just be faking it

Nice opening match here, happy with the result aswell. Would have been and awesome, fast paced match in real life and you did well with it. 8/10

Both in character here, both of them would put their problems ahead of anyone else. Looking forward to their matches later on

Kenny was in character here, choosing Gillberg, who is tiny and crap, to fight. Obviously meant to put Kenny over and you did a good job of that. Nice work hyping the cruiserweight title match on SD aswell. 7/10

Hope Trish wins at SNME, so then she comes back full time. Good promo here, Trish and Phoenix were in character and they should have an alright match.

Obvious result, with Rey returning. Good match nonetheless. I think this may be evolving into a feud? 7/10

HBK is in character here, should be a good match later on

Having Gangrel come back for a show, only to make Edge looks strong i didn't really like. You could have made Gangrel vs someone else while Edge just destroys some lower-midcard guy

Nice promo, it was entertaining. Is Sunny going to manage Jeff now?

Good tag match, surprised with the result. Though the Hardy's were going to win but Punk pinning Hardy helps build their feud. Nice there and i liked Punk in the aftermath, good stuff. 8/10

Nice match here, not entirely sure who the quebecians are but i liked the finish with Kennedy using the cattle prod on Jericho. Hope Kennedy wins at SNME!! 7.5/10

Good promo, it's looking like Vince is turining face

I liked the finish of this match, the no-contest finish was good as it made Orton and Batista look equal, so no one's champ is better. HHH making the save helps build the feud well, hope HHH wins the belt! 8.5/10

lol, this promo was funny with Punk attacking out of nowhere. You've done really well hyping this feud up

Nice promo here, i would have liked to see Austin wrestle but it doesn't matter. All of them were in character perfectly and i really enjoyed it.

Awesome match, would be great to see. I really hope HBK can pick up the belt at SNME. I liked Umaga attacking Taker, i think these 2 could have a great feud together and i look forward to seeing what happens.

Great show, really looking forward to Saturday Night's Main Event and i'll look out for it. An awesome show 8.5/10
 
#417 · (Edited)
WWE Championship
Triple H vs. Randy Orton (c)

World Heavyweight Championship
Batista (c) vs. Shawn Michaels

WWE United States Championship
Steel Cage Match
Matt Hardy vs. Montel Vontavious Porter (c)

WWE Womens Championship
Trish Stratus vs. Beth Phoenix (c)

Chris Jericho vs. Mr. Kennedy


1. How many titles will change hands, if any? 3


2. How will the United States title match be decided? Pinfall, submission or by escaping the cage? Escape


3. Will Edge make an appearance? Yes


4. Will Mr. McMahon’s son be revealed? No
 
#471 ·
D-K-L's Smackdown Review

Nice opening commentary, we don't normally see commentary from you on the TV shows do we? But you did a good job hyping the show and saying what a great year 2008 will be.

Having the cruiserweight match on first was the right way to go, a good match to get the crowd pumped. It was a decent match but we knew that Dykstra would win the match really. I'm a fan of Shannon Moore so I wasn't too happy seeing him lose, but Dykstra is the champ so he needed the win. The attack from Chavo afterwards was interesting, this feud between him and Dykstra should be good.

Batista being all pissed off is expected after Edge screwed him out of the WHC. Both seemed in character too, Regal came out with a few funny lines as well.

I'm liking this UK Pack. This was a good win for them here although I was slightly suprised to see Morrison and Miz lose to them. Harry Smith picking up the win with the running powerslam was good to see. I can't see these two going too far in the rumble match though.

This segment between Benjamin, Haas and Masters was good too. I'm glad that Benjamin has got rid of Haas now, hopefully Benjamin will get a big push now. I like Haas as a wrestler but Benjamin is the right one to push. A match between these two would be really interesting to read. Good match announcement for later on too.

Very entertaining interview with MVP here. I was wondering how MVP would act after he lost the belt to Hardy, and having him say that the title was like a "Christmas gift" was good. He was right in character with his usual arrogance, and I liked him being more aggressive too. The US Title rematch should be great, come on MVP!

Solid match here between Jimmy Yang and Finlay. It seemed like an entertaining match as Yang did better than I expected him to tbh, it certainly wasn't one sided. I was expecting Finlay to win though and I'm glad that he did, Finlay in the rumble over Wang Yang is the right decision. The Pitbulls distracting Wang Yang also doesn't make him look too weak.

The Ric Flair and Batista backstage segment was pretty good, just the type of seg you see before a match. Both seemed in character, Flair especially. Evolution reunion should be great.

Nice little interview with Estrada, I like him being back alongside Umaga. Nice little build up for the last ride match, I'm really suprised about this last ride match being on Smackdown though.

I think it's pretty obvious who that strange video is for, hopefully he'll be a monster heel when he comes back.

Very solid tag team match here. I was suprised when you said that the match was fairly even, I was expecting a bit of a squash here but it didn't turn out like that. Batista was always going to get the win here and let his anger out on Haas and Masters, but I liked how you isolated Flair and held off the tag, which they do a lot IRL. Good victory for Flair and Batista, Batista is looking strong despite his recent WHC loss.

Wow, Chris Harris next week! I'm looking forward to his debut, it'll be interesting to see what you do with him.

I think Umaga taking out Taker in the back was the right decision, the match just seemed to big for Smackdown. Is Taker going to be off TV then for a while? A rematch would be good though at a PPV.

Very good match between MVP and Hardy here, the Match of the night for sure. The match was really well written and entertaining to read, the near falls made it exciting too. I was really hoping that MVP would win the title back straight away but I was expecting Hardy to pull out the win and he did. Is this the end of the feud now? If it is I don't know where MVP could go from here, a feud with HBK would be awesome. Hardy looks like he'll be a great champion.

I like that you saved the celebration for the end of the night. This was a really well written promo and it's great to see HBK as the World Champion on Smackdown. I was shocked when HBK offered Batista his title back, I know he's a face but I wasn't expecting him to be like that. Batista certainly calmed down from earlier, I like how Batista wasn't angry at HBK. Man, Edge spearing HBK was a shock! I wasn't expecting that, he's really spoilt his celebration now. It's bound to be a Triple Threat now. Good way to end the show.

Overall I thought the show was great once again. Very entertaining to read with good matches and promos. Great show mate, can't wait untill next week!
 
#600 ·
Hi mate how ru. Wow your BTB is going on really well and im glad it is going like that. COngrats to you and hatts off for your RR PPV. It was great and i loved Kane being back with the mask as i also had Kane made his return with the mask after his rivlary with Umaga anyhow i will review RR ASAP. Good luck mate in the future.
 
#692 ·
D-K-L's Raw Review

Nice to see Raw in the UK again, it's up north this time but it'll do!

The opening promo was good, having Bischoff open the show was a good idea as having the GM or Independant Head of Authority in your case come down and announce matches is a great way to get this UK crowd pumped for the show. Wow, Triple H versus Vince in the Steel Cage is a massive match to have on Raw, I was expecting you to have something like this at Mania but I suppose you have other ideas for that, plus having this match tonight really gives Raw in the UK a real importance. I like the stipulations too, Bischoff is right down the middle and I like it. I really like that you gave Bischoff all the power too as he normally wouldn't be able to do this without the McMahon's overturning the decisions. I liked Orton and Cena getting involved too, both seemed in character and the second match announcement from Bischoff is huge, again showing that Raw in the UK is a big deal.

Decent match to kick off the action, not the best match you could have to kick off the action, but looking at the other matches this is the right decision as the others need to be high up on the card. Two very talented diva's here so it was going to be an exciting match, I liked how this mystery diva kept getting involved as it kept us wondering who she was. Nice finish and a good win for the Glamazon. So it was Natalya then, good choice, what an alliance this is. Them beating down on Victoria until Mickie made the save was cool, tag match next week then?

Nice little segments here, Burke against Rey Mysterio again tonight is cool but I think we know who is going to win this time. The Punk segment was also very well written and I'm loving this heel Punk, I wonder what Eric has planned for next week? Funny line about Germany too BTW.

I liked the interview with Cody Rhodes and Kofi Kingston last week so I was looking forward to this match, just seeing Rhodes and Kofi all aggressive and looking for revenge was cool. The match seemed like a good match, the right team won for sure and the right person took the pinfall. This was a good little feud, I wonder if it will continue.

Cool interview, Cryme Tyme are perfect partners for Ron killing IMO. You added some humour with the line from Maria too, that was funny.

Great match between Elijah and Rey. I'm happy that Burke got the win this time as he needed it after losing to Rey at SNME, and by having both men beat each other once it meant that neither man looks weak. Didn't expect the MVP interference at all, there goes my Batista theory! I did say that Rey's match at Mania would be an interpromotional match though at least. I'm looking forward to MVP's explanation as to why he attacked Rey.

The MVP/HHH segments were pretty good, the MVP thing was a bit strange but I guess you wanted to show that MVP was proud of what he did. The Triple H thing was pretty good, I can see him being like that and the last line was cool.

The Eugene segment with Sunny was very good and very well written but I would not like to watch that Lol, it would be so cringeworthy to watch! It was funny though with Eugene playing with his figures. "Pedigree"! That would be hilarious to see. Bischoff looking after Eugene was good, it was funny that he was hiding though.

Nice little comedy promo from Santino before the match. The match seemed pretty good and again the right team picked up the win here.

I was going to say in my SNME review that the show could've done with a highlight reel or some kind of in ring promo, as we normally get one at SNME, but I'm glad that we have got the highlight reel tonight. This promo was brilliant, really well written again. Taking this piss out of the South though and Chelsea? :no: That didn't make me laugh being a Chelsea fan! The rest of the comedy bits from Y2J were funny though and I liked the PM line. Next weeks match is huge and Y2J as ref is a great decision. This was a great segment and it really added more to this three way feud.

Okay segment with the McMahon's, we had to hear from them really after the match announcement earlier. All were in character and I liked what Vince had to say, his confidence was certainly building towards the end but I don't think he can defeat Triple H on his own.

Kane picking up the win was slighlty suprising tbh, I expected Orton to get involved and cause a double DQ or something. The match was good and again very well written with Orton trying to get involved. I don't think there was anything wrong with the ending at all becuase it was a good little twist, as instead of getting revenge on Kane like he said he would Orton cost Cena the match instead. This won't sit well with Cena at all and I expect he will be looking for revenge next week. Kane is looking very strong at the moment but anyone could win at Mania tbh, and I think that Kane won't continue his dominacne all the way up to Mania, either Orton or Cena are going to take the monster down before then.

The main event was very interesting to read, and although Triple H was always going to win you had Vince get some offense in too which was good. Vince used his typical heel tactics to ground Triple H and the clothesline from wall street was cool, all that was missing was Shane's coast to coast from Vince! The finish was good and the low blow from Triple H before the Pedigreewas cool as it shows the hatred between the two men, and the match showed how much they want to hurt each other. I'm interested to see what Triple H does now with the Wrestlemania power in his favour, as I don't know how he will involve all three McMahon's in a match.

Overall Nige it was another quality show, nothing much wrong with it at all. I really enjoyed the matches this week, all of them seemed to flow really well and the promos were good too, the highlight real especially. The storylines you have going are really interesting too heading into 'Mania. Good job mate.
 
#852 · (Edited)
WWE.com - Wrestlemania XXIV - Official Preview

Nige™ Presents. . .



**Poster by TKoW**


WRESTLEMANIA XXIV – The Preview

Sunday March 30th 2008
The Citrus Bowl
Orlando, Florida


WWE Championship
John Cena vs Kane vs Randy Orton (c)



Going in to this huge championship match, two questions need answering; can Kane be stopped, and is it Orton’s destiny to remain the WWE Champion? Having returned with his mask at the Royal Rumble back in January, The Big Red Machine has looked unstoppable and remained undefeated ever since eliminating his brother, The Undertaker to book this championship match. But this match isn’t all about Kane, as he has to overcome the challenge of John Cena and the WWE Champion, Randy Orton.

Orton has been on a high since winning the title at No Mercy last year after putting Cena on the shelf, forcing Cena to relinquish his title due to the injury sustained at the hands of The Legend Killer. And it was one big New Year’s shock for Orton when Cena returned to get the title match he craved. The match was on, and at the Rumble, Orton was victorious in what was one hell of a TLC match. However, to Orton’s frustration, Cena claimed the only thing the match proved was that the champion was better at climbing ladders, making it perfectly clear that they weren’t through.

What they didn’t bank on was Kane gate crashing their fight over the title when The Big Red Monster jumped ship from Smackdown to challenge for the WWE Championship instead of Shawn Michaels’ World Heavyweight Championship. He didn’t waste any time in demonstrating how much of a threat he is by showing Cena & Orton what he is capable of first hand. Orton knew he had a problem and deliberately went about setting Cena up for a fall, a plan that nearly worked. After being placed in a eight man tag team match which would see the WWE Champion team up with The McMahon’s to take on Evolution & Cena, Orton attacked Kane’s father, Paul Bearer backstage and left evidence to suggest that Cena was behind it to infuriate Kane. It went to plan at first as Kane went after Cena, chokeslamming him off the stage and through some tables below.

However, Eric Bischoff was wise to it and saw through Orton’s scheme, turning the tables on the WWE Champion by changing the scheduled match to a handicap match that saw Orton & Vince McMahon lose to Evolution. The following week saw Bischoff really put Orton on the back foot by making the match everyone had been dying to see since the Rumble, as Orton was forced in to a match with Kane. To the champion’s credit, he put up a fight before he eventually gave in to temptation and got himself disqualified. He then suckered Kane to the outside in order to pummel him several times with a steel chair. Satisfied that he had given Kane quite a beating, Orton’s smile was quickly wiped off his face as Kane sat up, leaving Orton shocked and curious in order to what it would take to keep the monster down.

He didn’t have to wait long to find out as Cena returned a week later and made a bee line for Orton. The champ’s security team didn’t faze him as he charged right at them, and soon had help from Kane, who was dying to get revenge on The Legend Killer. Between them, the challengers took out Orton and the security team before fighting each other, and it was Cena who came out on top, sending Kane through the announce table with an F U. Orton was able to see all this as he recovered from an F U himself, was he staring at his own fate?

Has Orton finally met his match in the shape of Cena & Kane? Will Cena be able to carry his momentum through, or will Kane fight back and take the WWE Championship away from the man who calls it his destiny to retain the gold on the biggest stage of them all?



World Heavyweight Championship
Shawn Michaels (c) vs Edge



If it wasn’t for Kane’s decision to leave Smackdown and join Raw, The Rated R Superstar wouldn’t be in the luxurious position of being one match away from regaining the World Heavyweight Championship he had to forfeit last year, which was ironically down to Kane. It’s a funny old world! To Edge’s credit, he was able to overcome five other Smackdown superstars to earn this opportunity he has craved after a couple of unsuccessful attempts to retain the title he calls his own.

However, on his quest to extend his own unbeaten streak at Wrestlemania, Edge must go up against the man who owns the stage and title of Mr. Wrestlemania, “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels. For the first time in ten years, HBK will walk in to Wrestlemania with gold strapped around his waist, but will it remain there when it’s all said and done? Funnily enough, it was Edge’s error that led to Shawn winning the title back at Saturday Night’s Main Event in December after accidentally hitting Batista instead of Michaels.

This led to Michaels defending his newly won title against Edge in Canada of all places, only for Batista to get his own back on Edge and costing him the title by getting him disqualified. Fists were flying after this, and it came as no surprise as Michaels defended the title yet again, but against both Batista & Edge at the Royal Rumble. It was HBK’s night too as he defeated Batista with the trusted sweet chin music, but with Edge not officially losing the match, he wanted the one on one shot he’s demanded since returning. And after Kane’s departure, he was given the opportunity to earn what he wanted when William Regal made a six man number one contendership match. In what was an incredible battle, Edge was the man to emerge with the chance to main event Wrestlemania and go head to head with the greatest Wrestlemania performer of all time.

It appears however that Edge doesn’t feel Mr. Wrestlemania is a title Michaels deserves, claiming HBK hasn’t done anything significant at Wrestlemania in comparison to him. Has Edge got a point? With the exception of beating Vince McMahon at Wrestlemania 22, Michaels has only one of his other four outings at the sports entertainment spectacular since returning to the WWE in 2002. Can the show stopper turn that around this year and hold on to the title he holds very close to his heart?

The Rated R Superstar has done everything he can to try and gain an advantage going in to this huge title match, including bringing in Michaels’ cousin, Michael Shane as a tool to get under Shawn’s skin. But most recently, Edge took the more direct approach by attacking Michaels after he defeated Finlay in a match on Smackdown just over a couple of weeks ago. However, a spear wasn’t enough for Edge as he brought in his favourite toys and piece of music, giving Michaels his first experience of the con-chair-to. The World Champion suffered a concussion due to the deadly chair shot, but he didn’t give Edge the satisfaction in having any kind of bragging rights as he cut him short the week after. A bitter slanging match ensued until William Regal intervened and put Edge in to action, against The Undertaker. The contender to Michaels’ throne was lucky that Umaga came to his rescue, but was less fortunate after The Samoan Bulldozer attacked him with a Samoan Spike.

This past Friday was a test for all concerned as Edge was forced in to teaming up with Umaga after the events of the week before to take on Michaels & The Undertaker. While the dead man & The Samoan Savage battled on the outside, Edge was fortunate again after receiving a steel chair from Armando Alejandro Estrada, who was at ringside supporting Umaga. As Michaels tuned up the band and tried to put Edge to bed, The Rated R Superstar struck with one more vicious chair shot to an already hurt World Champion. Edge looked possessed as he stood by the fallen champion after the assault, staring down at the man he attempts to dethrone this Sunday night in Orlando.

Will he be able to take back the World Championship? Can the show stopper make Edge eat his words and pull out one of his biggest Wrestlemania victories to extend what could be his last title reign? Only time will tell!



The Ultimate Grudge Match
Evolution vs The McMahon Men (JBL, Vince & Shane McMahon)



There may not be a title on the line, but this could well be the biggest match of the night. A bitter family feud and deep hatred after years of problems threaten to spill over and make this one of Wrestlemania’s greatest ever battles. Ric Flair, Triple H & Vince McMahon have been through it all before, but with the addition of two former World Champions and a millionaire daredevil who has been involved in some of the craziest battles the WWE has ever seen, we could well see a Wrestlemania moment when these six men go at it hell for leather at The Citrus Bowl.

This all started last October when Triple H was convinced that Mr. McMahon was deliberately standing in his way of getting his hands on the WWE Championship following the Chairman of the Board’s decision at No Mercy to make The Game defend the title twice in the same night, having already won it earlier on. The third match was too much for Triple H to overcome, losing in a Last Man Standing match to Randy Orton. He thought he was in line for a rematch at Cyber Sunday after being put forward as one of the nominees to receive a title shot, but it was Vince yet again who blocked The Game’s path to the gold by personally announcing the vote himself. According to Vince, CM Punk received just one more vote than his son-in-law. A set up by Mr. McMahon?

That was the final straw for Triple H as he went after Vince, and it wasn’t long before enough was enough and Stephanie McMahon announced to the world that she was in fact married to her father’s worst enemy. It was a secret that her father didn’t want being brought in to the open, with it exposing lie after lie, including the bombshell that Hornswoggle wasn’t the illegitimate son of Mr. McMahon after all. Triple H & Stephanie admitted to setting it up to look like the leprechaun was the bastard son when he wasn’t. Angering his father-in-law by not revealing who the actual son was, The Game would meet his wife’s father in a Streetfight at the Survivor Series that led to Mr. McMahon spending a number of weeks in hospital. However when he returned, it seemed that he had been able to put the problems behind him and accept Triple H as his son-in-law.

It seemed like that the McMahon Helmsley family had moved on, and with Triple H gaining a shot at Randy Orton’s WWE Championship at Saturday Night’s Main Event, it looked certain to be a very happy Christmas for all concerned. Yet there was more news to come as a reluctant Stephanie told her father she was pregnant with her second child, before allowing him to look after his granddaughter, Aurora Rose so she could tell her husband the good news. However, when Steph returned with Triple H, Vince & Aurora were gone, unsettling The Game before his big match with Orton. Putting it to one side, Triple H went ahead with the match and looked on the verge of victory until Vince taunted him with Aurora Rose, creating the perfect distraction for JBL to attack The Game, costing him the WWE Championship. But why JBL? It was soon revealed that he was in fact the illegitimate son of Mr. McMahon.

Together with his son, Mr. McMahon swore revenge on Triple H for not revealing the truth. It was clear that Hunter & Stephanie had Shane McMahon on their side, and the then General Manager gave his brother-in-law one more shot at Orton and the WWE Championship, only to screw Triple H over himself to join his father and half brother. It was a shock for everyone on Raw, but there were more shocks to come as Linda McMahon announced that the board of directors were stripping all parties of their power on Raw due to personal interests, and then dropped the bombshell that there would be a new independent Head of Authority on Raw after the Royal Rumble. With a Wrestlemania title shot still lying in wait, Triple H, JBL & Shane gave it their all in the Rumble match, and it was The Game who got the better of it as he eliminated both of Vince’s sons, only for JBL to return and eliminate him from the match.

With the battle lines drawn, they all seemed to forget that a new Head of Authority was to be named, and boy was there a surprise in store as Linda unveiled Eric Bischoff to the shock of practically everyone. He wasted no time in making his presence felt and gave both sides a chance to get some power back by competing against each other. However, Triple H was not so surprisingly robbed by the McMahon’s, giving them the power to choose who The Game would face at Saturday Night’s Main Event. It was no big shock that the choice was Kane, but they weren’t done there as they gave themselves each a special guest role for the night to guarantee Triple H would fall short, which he did despite a great effort. Bischoff wasn’t happy that the McMahon’s undermined him by working together, and decided to give Triple H one more chance of power by putting him in a Steel Cage match against Vince with the winner deciding what match the loser would have at Wrestlemania.

The Game didn’t disappoint as he emerged victorious and stunned everyone by saying he wanted all three McMahon men at Wrestlemania, and that’s what he’s going to get. With the McMahon’s using the numbers game yet again to beat down Triple H, we found out what The Game’s plan was, Batista & Ric Flair, his long time friends coming to his aid, revealing the match that Triple H had decided on was a six man tag team match with the reunion of Evolution. Ever since, we have seen brawl after brawl and sneak attacks galore, but now there is no place to hide like Evolution said this past Monday night on Raw. There is no escape, just six men and one ring to fight for survival. Just which group of men will survive this battle?



Last Man Standing Match
The Undertaker vs Umaga



This could be the year that The Undertaker’s Wrestlemania winning streak finally comes to an end when he meets the monster that has shown no fear against him in the shape of “The Samoan Bulldozer” Umaga. It won’t just be any ordinary match either as these two will attempt to come out on top in a Last Man Standing match. Ever since The Undertaker defeated Umaga in a number one contendership qualifying match back in December of last year, The Samoan Savage has not let up on the Wrestlemania legend, showing that he has absolutely no fear or respect for the legacy that the phenom has created over the course of nearly 20 years.

Umaga struck back after the defeat by costing The Undertaker a shot at the title, brutally attacking him in the process. With the problems spilling over between them, they were put in a Last Ride match by William Regal for the first edition of Smackdown in the new year, but Umaga & Armando Alejandro Estrada had different ideas. They spotted the chance to make a statement with Umaga attacking the dead man in the back before the match and shoved him in to the hearse that was waiting in the arena. Estrada then drove the hearse to a cemetery where Umaga left a battered Undertaker all by himself. It was a few weeks before we saw the phenom again, but he would have the chance at revenge as Regal made another match between them, a First Blood match.

If it wasn’t for a mistake by the referee, The Undertaker would have won the match as Umaga bled first, but the first sign of blood the referee saw came from the head of the dead man. This was never going to be over, and they continued their rivalry in to the Royal Rumble match just days later. Umaga battled his way from entering at the start of the Rumble match before being eliminated by his arch nemesis when they were left with just one other man, Kane. The departure of Kane gave six men from Smackdown the chance to face Shawn Michaels for the World Championship at Wrestlemania, including The Undertaker & Umaga as they went at it again at Saturday Night’s Main Event. Neither men was able to win the coveted title shot, but it was looking good for Umaga until The Undertaker stood in his way and chokeslammed him through an announce table, allowing Edge to win the match.

This didn’t go down well with The Samoan Bulldozer as he attacked The Undertaker yet again, only this time, he made a real impact by putting him on the shelf for a month. The dead man was facing Shelton Benjamin when Umaga made his way down to the ring to interrupt the match, but no one could anticipate just what damage he was going to inflict. With the dead man laid out on the mat, Umaga placed a chair over Taker’s neck and hit a leg drop on to the chair, causing The Undertaker to bleed from the mouth. We didn’t see anything from the dead man for weeks, but he soon made it clear to Umaga that he was coming back, leaving chilling warnings for the monster. There was one message in particular that sent a shiver down Umaga’s spine, the announcement that The Undertaker would be back at Wrestlemania to face The Samoan Savage in a Last Man Standing match.

Despite playing his fear down, Umaga received a shock a week later when he was awaiting his opponent when the lights went out, and then came back on with the dead man standing right behind him and Estrada. It was their turn to feel the wrath of the dead man as he gave them both a taste of what he is capable of doing this Sunday night in Orlando. Yet again however, Umaga came back at the phenom, attacking him a week later during The Undertaker’s match with Edge, leaving a message that he too is someone to be feared. They met face to face this past Friday night in tag team action, and it didn’t take long for it to get ugly as they went at it on the outside of the ring. This Sunday will be a totally different occasion as they finally collide one on one, on the biggest stage possible with the winning streak of The Undertaker firmly under threat. Can the dead man extend his streak, or will this be the year that sees the world come crashing down on The Undertaker?



Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Chris Jericho vs Bobby Lashley vs Rey Mysterio
vs Elijah Burke vs Mr. Kennedy vs MVP



This has become one of the most anticipated Wrestlemania matches in the last couple of years since Money in the Bank was introduced to the WWE back in 2005. There is a sense of irony about this year’s match as the innovator of the match, Chris Jericho returned to Raw at the back end of the last year and will compete in this career propelling match for the first time since its conception three years ago. It was Jericho who set the ball rolling for this year’s match by announcing his intention to get back to the top and once again become a World Champion, but he wasn’t the only one who stated their desire to get their hands on the all important contract that guarantees the winner a shot at any title they wish for the next twelve months.

To say that things got personal too was an understatement as last year’s winner, Mr. Kennedy quickly made it clear to Jericho that he would be doing within his power to reclaim the title of Mr. Money in the Bank, having won this unbelievably competitive and dangerous match. What they didn’t bank on was that a fired up former ECW Champion would make life very difficult for them, in the shape of Bobby Lashley. Having been stripped of the ECW Championship after being drafted to Raw last year, and having put on a very courageous effort in the Royal Rumble, Lashley didn’t hide his desire to get his hand on championship gold yet again. He certainly got to Jericho & Kennedy, beating them in a triple threat match before continuing to overcome them in future weeks.

It didn’t take long for other contenders to stake a claim, and thanks to Smackdown’s MVP, Elijah Burke was the first and only man to qualify for the match by defeating Rey Mysterio. The night after the Royal Rumble, Rey was found laid out backstage before he was scheduled to challenge for the Intercontinental Championship with Burke being the number one culprit. The two had problems for a while, prompting Eric Bischoff to make a match between them a couple of weeks later at Saturday Night’s Main Event, which saw Rey pick up the victory. Just a couple of night’s later, Burke was able to prove his innocence after his girlfriend, Layla gave him the alibi that nudged Bischoff to offer Burke an apology in the shape of a Money in the Bank qualifying match against Rey that night. It was then that we found out it was MVP who attacked Rey two weeks earlier when he cost Mysterio the match, giving Burke a place in the match.

From there, MVP would play a major part in the build up to this year’s contest. Travelling to Raw on a regular basis, Smackdown’s highest paid superstar quickly become a pain in the backside of Bischoff. The Raw Head of Authority decided that enough was enough with the antics of all these men and decided that instead of having more qualifying matches, he would just put all six men together to allow them to beat the hell out of each other on the biggest stage possible with so much at stake. It’s become crystal clear that are no friends going in to this match, with all hell breaking loose over the last couple of weeks. Even the close friends of Bobby Lashley & Rey Mysterio, as well as MVP & Elijah Burke saw their friendship blow up the in their faces with their individual agendas getting in the way. In a triple threat match this past Monday, Lashley speared Mysterio by accident, before William Regal put them all together in a six man tag team match this past Friday on Smackdown.

It didn’t go to plan at all as MVP’s arrogance got him in trouble with his buddy Burke, causing Burke to tell MVP he could do without him later on, sick of MVP not taking him seriously. That wasn’t MVP’s only problem as Kennedy told him that he too wasn’t happy with having to team up with him after MVP walked out on their match several days earlier on Raw. There were problems for their opponents too as Rey tried to smooth things over with Lashley, only for Jericho to stir things up. It led to a chaotic match with Kennedy turning the tables on MVP by shocking him with The Mic Check and walking out on his partner after Burke lived up to his promise by not taking part in the match. With MVP left on his own, lying flat on his back, allowing Mysterio to win the match. There was more to come as the tension threatened to spill over, and then did as Kennedy raced back down to the ring and pulled a ladder out from under the ring. Jericho saw it coming and was able to take out the remaining men and climb to the top of the ladder as Smackdown came to an end. Will there be a familiar site when these six men put their bodies through hell for the chance to become a star?



WWE Intercontinental Championship
I Quit Match
Jeff Hardy vs CM Punk (c)



It is fair to say that this could well be the most personal match that we will see when these two bitter rivals take their deep hatred for each other to a whole new level. This won’t just be any ordinary level as each man has to try and make the other utter the words “I Quit”. With so much ill feeling between them, there is no telling just how far these men will go to stand tall when it is all said and done. It is difficult to remember that isn’t just an I Quit match between two fierce enemies, but the Intercontinental Championship is also at stake, and that is where it all started. Back in November of last year, the duo seemed to have mutual respect for each other going to the traditional elimination Survivor Series match for Jeff’s Intercontinental title that saw Punk & Jeff on the same team. Jeff was able to retain the title with Punk being his fellow survivor, after Jeff made a blind tag to get the win. It didn’t set well with Punk who shocked everyone by returning to the ring and attacking Jeff in front of a stunned crowd.

From there, Punk has disgusted wrestlers and fans alike by his disrespectful comments towards Jeff, bringing up some of the memories that he would rather forget and put firmly in the past. Punk took things way too far, even verbally assaulting a father in the front row for allowing his son to be a Jeff Hardy fan, with him knowing full well that Jeff had used drugs. He was relentless in his condemnation of the Intercontinental Champion, but Punk then took his assault to a physical nature, attacking Jeff so severely that he needed to receive hospital treatment. Jeff came back fighting and it wasn’t long before the match was set for the Royal Rumble with Jeff’s title on the line. What proved to be decisive was the third party that no one saw coming. After meeting Jeff backstage during the 15th anniversary of Raw, Sunny and The Charismatic Enigma became close, so close that Sunny accompanied Jeff to the Rumble and stood in his corner. We were left in shock after an incredible match ended with Sunny hitting Jeff in the face with the title that was soon to belong to Punk.

It seemed that an elaborate plan between Punk & Sunny would be too much for Jeff to take, but it wasn’t to be. The now former Intercontinental Champion missed several shows until his shocking return, striking back at Punk & Sunny with the aid of Eric Bischoff. Punk & Sunny had tried to manipulate Eugene, Bischoff’s nephew in order to try and get him to persuade Bischoff to get off their backs. It didn’t turn out that way as Sunny tried to use her feminine charms on the innocent Eugene, only for Jeff to be lying in wait, leaving Punk & Sunny stunned, leaving Punk suffering on the locker room floor. Jeff had returned with an impact, showing that he was coming back for Punk, his title and revenge. Bischoff was only too happy to give him the opportunity as he told an angry Punk that he would be defending his newly won title against Jeff in an I Quit match at Wrestlemania. The Straight Edge Superstar wasn’t about to sit back as he retaliated, luring Jeff in to the parking lot, it’s just he wasn’t the only one there. As soon as Jeff shut the door after leaving the arena, there was someone else behind the door who was ready to attack him. It turned out to be Punk’s long time friend, Colt Cabana, and once again Jeff was in need of hospital treatment.

Yet again, Jeff didn’t sit back and let Punk get to him as he once again returned to show Punk he is in for one hell of a fight at Wrestlemania. This past Monday, Punk tried to get under Jeff’s skin one more time, but it didn’t work. Jeff met his adversary in the ring and stood up for himself before the inevitable assault came from Punk & Cabana. However, Eugene came to the rescue as he raced down and pulled Cabana from the ring, leaving Jeff to fight back and leave Punk lying on the mat. Has Jeff got the fight and desire required to get the title he was screwed out of at the Rumble back? One thing is guaranteed, neither men will leave The Citrus Bowl the same once this is all said and done.



WWE United States Championship
Matt Hardy (c) vs Shelton Benjamin



The older Hardy brother goes in to Wrestlemania in the opposite position to Jeff, as Matt will be walking down the aisle in to his championship match this weekend with gold around his waist. It will be the job of Shelton Benjamin to ensure that Matt doesn’t walk back out again still in position of the United States Championship. It’s a quest that Shelton feels he is more than capable of, having set his sights on Matt a long time ago, and not letting him get out of reach. It’s been in a mission that Shelton has just not let go since turning his back on Charlie Haas and the WWE Tag Team Championship, determined to prove to everyone that he is the star that he believes he is.

He was given a couple of opportunities to meet Matt, and on the first two occasions, it was the United States Champion that emerged victorious, seemingly only spurring the relentless Shelton on to go back for more. To his credit, he didn’t let up and was able to pull off a victory over Matt in a tag team match, setting him on course for the title shot he so desperately wanted. However, much like CM Punk, The Gold Standard has found that a Hardy has a lot of heart, so much in fact that he recovered from being blindsided in the official contract signing over a week ago by his life long friend, Shannon Moore. And Friday night just gone, Matt put that betrayal to one side as he met Shannon one on one, defeating his former friend, sending a message to Shelton.

However, with Shelton watching on from ringside, he wasn’t about to let Matt have his moment in the sun, as for the second week in a row, Matt was knocked out for the count with the title belt that both he and The Gold Standard will battle for this Sunday night in Orlando, Florida. It promises to be a very entertaining contest, just who will emerge with the gold once the bell tolls?



WWE & World Tag Team Championship
Paul London & Brian Kendrick (c) vs John Morrison & The Miz
vs The UK Pack (c) vs The Pitbulls



It sure promises to be one very interesting contest when these four teams battle it out with both sets of tag team titles on the line. In a joint decision made by both Raw & Smackdown General Manager’s, it was decided that a little brand competition would be a nice little tonic for everyone involved this Sunday night. Usually in a fourway championship match, the champions are under serous threat with three teams vying for their titles, but with the added bonus for both The UK Pack and Paul London & Brian Kendrick of knowing that they could leave with both tag titles, it slightly takes the pressure off. Both teams have held the titles since late last year, but this will be their first major challenge despite the prize that hangs in the balance.

The rules of the match state that the winning team will take the titles of either the champions they defeat or the titles of the brand that their losing member is contracted to. For example, if John Morrison or The Miz pins either Kid Kash or Jamie Noble, they will win the WWE Tag Team titles. If it was the other way round, The Pitbulls would win the World Tag Team titles. Funnily enough, these two teams met on Raw this past week with The Pitbulls beating Raw’s duo in what was somewhat of an upset with the role Morrison & Miz have been on since leaving Smackdown after problems with Smackdown GM, William Regal. The eccentric duo believed their talent wasn’t been recognised by Regal, and this was after Noble & Kash overcame them in the final of the Number One Contendership series for a title shot at Saturday Night’s Main Event.

The UK Pack defended their tag titles against The Pitbulls in their home country of England in what led to a lot of controversy. Having brought one of the belts in to the ring, Noble was hoping for a sneak victory, but it didn’t turn out that way as Smith stole the belt and hit a cheap shot of his own. The referee saw it and had no choice but to disqualify the champions, leaving the challengers frustrated. They made it their mission to get another shot since they didn’t lose the first one, but were left fuming when they found out Regal had given Morrison & Miz a shot at Smith & Burchill in an attempt to persuade them to stay on Smackdown after Eric Bischoff tried to tempt them to Raw. Had it not been for the angry Pitbulls, the titles may have changed hands as they got the challengers disqualified after attacking the champions for the controversial finish six nights earlier in the UK.

This was the final straw for the hosts of The Dirt Sheet as they packed their bags and accepted Bischoff’s invitation to switch to Raw. They immediately caused an impact by offering an open challenge to any team on their new brand, and overcame Cryme Time for their first Raw victory. They then set their sights on Raw’s tag champions, with London & Kendrick being told that their title reign was coming to an end while The UK Pack & The Pitbulls rivalry got more intense with Regal making the match the challengers wanted for Wrestlemania. Morrison & Miz went face to face with London & Kendrick, defeating them in a non title match to put themselves in with a shout of a championship match. Due to this, several weeks ago on Smackdown, Bischoff went to visit Regal when they agreed on this inter-promotional match. With two titles on the line, it promises to be one very unpredictable match.



WWE Cruiserweight Championship
Chavo Guerrero vs Matt Sydal
vs Kenny Dykstra (c) vs Michael Shane



It’s time for the loud mouth Cruiserweight Champion to back up his arrogance as he defends his title against not one but three men this weekend. Kenny Dykstra has had no problem whatsoever with telling everyone just how amazing he is, or just how much he thinks he is, but this Sunday will truly be the biggest test of his title reign when he goes up against three very hungry challengers who are more than determined to be the one to shut his mouth and take his title. It might be a difficult ask, but to be fair to Dykstra, he has proved himself to be one of Smackdown’s most exciting prospects since winning the title in difficult circumstances back at the Survivor Series last November. Just like the Intercontinental Championship match that night, it was a traditional elimination match with the vacant title going to the sole survivor, and that man was Kenny Dykstra. That night, two of the superstars he overcame were Chavo Guerrero & Matt Sydal, and they will once again stand in his way of walking out with the gold. At the end of the epic Survivor Series match, it came down to Sydal & Dykstra, with Kenny pulling out an impressive victory.

It didn’t take long for us to find out that the newly crowned champion had an ego about him as he bragged in front of the world about his victory over seven other men, but his mouth soon got him in to trouble with a certain Chavo Guerrero after some unfinished business with Sydal. Dykstra offered an open challenge for a non title match with any cruiserweight on the roster, promising to give them a shot at the title if they could defeat him. Sydal wasted no time in coming back for more, only for Dykstra to cling on for a seemingly deliberate double count out. He made it clear that Sydal didn’t win the match or a title shot, but he was faced with another challenge, this time from Chavo. The Mexican looked on his way to a title match when Kenny got himself disqualified to avoid a pinfall defeat, but it still resulted in a championship match for Chavo. It was given an extra dimension by William Regal as he made sure a disqualification wouldn’t lead to Kenny retaining his title, making it a no disqualification match, but yet again, Kenny found a way round the rules. Before Chavo could climb through the ropes for the start of the match, Dykstra struck him across the skull with the title belt and continued with the attack before making the inevitable pinfall.

This led to Chavo having to go to hospital with a concussion, but he was back with a bang, earning himself a shot at the title at the Royal Rumble. Yet again however, Dykstra was able to dig deep in his locker to retain his title by pushing the referee in to Chavo just as it looked we would see a new Cruiserweight Champion. Just because it didn’t happen at the Rumble, doesn’t mean it won’t happen here. Chavo certainly wants the chance to get revenge on Dykstra, but he’s not the only one who wants to get his hands on the champion and his gold. Sydal still has the memories firmly in his head, and along with Michael Shane, they want to stamp their mark on the cruiserweight division, promising to make it different. Shane hasn’t had a problem in getting involved in certain situations with his cousin, Shawn Michaels, and his relationship with Dykstra has been a very rocky one too. He did say in front of a worldwide audience that he wanted the title before he looked to have accidentally cost Dykstra a couple of matches, but that didn’t set well with the champ one bit. When it came to deciding a challenger for Wrestlemania, Regal was stuck between three different and yet equally capable performers, making a triple threat match between Chavo, Sydal & Shane. Kenny as always, had to get involved, gifting Shane a win by disqualification, but Regal didn’t allow him to get away with it, announcing a fatal fourway match instead. Has Dykstra created his own downfall? We don’t have to wait too long to find out.



WWE Womens Championship
Natalya barred from ringside & the title can change hands on a Disqualification
Victoria vs Beth Phoenix (c)



There are some who believe in the meaning of people getting what is coming to them, and those who do believe that will be thinking that Beth Phoenix could well be heading for a fall at The Citrus Bowl this Sunday. It would be hard for Beth to argue that she doesn’t deserve to be on the end of a bad result here after her hideous attack on Victoria last November that led to her challenger spending several weeks in hospital with serious head trauma. The incident happened after the Survivor Series where The Glamazon retained her title in a triple threat match with Victoria and Mickie James. Victoria was watching on from ringside during Beth’s match when a confrontation took place, resulting in Beth hitting Victoria in the head with the title belt, resulting in Victoria falling and hitting her head on a steel chair. The blood flowed from Victoria’s head with The Glamazon looking fairly shocked, and she later pleaded her innocence, calling it an accident despite hitting her in the head with her title belt.

We all knew that there would be a response when Victoria returned, and she sure made an impression on the champion by surprising Beth in her locker room and telling her that she is one diva who wouldn’t be intimidated by The Glamazon. Victoria’s presence seemed to get to Phoenix, and it didn’t take long for the two to be put together in a singles match with the championship on the line. Victoria looked mighty impressive as she met her bitter rival at Saturday Night’s Main Event in February, and it looked like she was on her way to another championship reign. That was until Beth had help from a mystery woman who attacked Victoria while the referee was hurt. And just like that, The Glamazon had retained her championship once again, but this was far from being the end for these two. We found out a couple of nights later on Raw that Beth’s saviour was the daughter of Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart, Natalya. But why did she help the champion? It appears they have crossed paths before and that together they feel they can dominate Raw.

They certainly have made an impact as a duo, intimidating several divas and looking very impressive in tag team matches, as well as helping each other in singles action. Despite that, they have failed to intimidate the one diva that they set out to in Victoria. Whatever Beth & Natalya have thrown at Victoria, she has come back fighting, proving to be a real pain for the champion who has a very difficult task in putting Victoria to bed when they collide under the Orlando skyline. Victoria and the fans weren’t the only ones sick of the constant double act antics from the two bullies as Eric Bischoff gave Victoria another chance at the title, but he made sure there would be no repeat of Saturday Night’s Main Event as he barred Natalya from ringside, stacking the odds in the challenger’s favour. However, despite Victoria looking in good shape, Beth saved her title by getting herself disqualified intentionally. This set Bischoff over the edge as he ensured The Glamazon wouldn’t get away with it again as she listened in horror to hear Bischoff announce she would be defending her title against Victoria at Wrestlemania with Natalya barred from ringside once again, but with the added stipulation that if Beth loses the match by disqualification, she will also lose her title. Are the odds in the challenger’s favour? Is this finally going to be Victoria’s night, or will The Glamazon pull it out of the bag yet again?



*PREDICTIONS TEMPLATE*

WWE Championship
John Cena vs Kane vs Randy Orton (c)

World Heavyweight Championship
Shawn Michaels (c) vs Edge

The Ultimate Grudge Match
Evolution vs The McMahon Men (JBL, Vince & Shane McMahon)

Last Man Standing Match
The Undertaker vs Umaga

Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Chris Jericho vs Bobby Lashley vs Rey Mysterio
vs Elijah Burke vs Mr. Kennedy vs MVP

WWE Intercontinental Championship
I Quit Match
Jeff Hardy vs CM Punk (c)

WWE United States Championship
Matt Hardy (c) vs Shelton Benjamin

WWE & World Tag Team Championship
Paul London & Brian Kendrick (c) vs John Morrison & The Miz
vs The UK Pack (c) vs The Pitbulls

WWE Cruiserweight Championship
Chavo Guerrero vs Matt Sydal
vs Kenny Dykstra (c) vs Michael Shane

WWE Womens Championship
Natalya barred from ringside & the title can change hands on a Disqualification
Victoria vs Beth Phoenix (c)


Questions

How many titles will change hands, if any?

Which match will main event the show?

Which match will open the show?

How many announce tables will be broken?

Wrestlemania 25’s location will be revealed. Where will Wrestlemania XXV be held?


 
#853 ·
The King os Kings Predictions

WWE Championship
John Cena vs Kane vs Randy Orton (c)

World Heavyweight Championship
Shawn Michaels (c) vs Edge

The Ultimate Grudge Match
Evolution vs The McMahon Men (JBL, Vince & Shane McMahon)

Last Man Standing Match
The Undertaker vs Umaga

Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Chris Jericho vs Bobby Lashley vs Rey Mysterio
vs Elijah Burke vs Mr. Kennedy vs MVP

WWE Intercontinental Championship
I Quit Match
Jeff Hardy vs CM Punk (c)

WWE United States Championship
Matt Hardy (c) vs Shelton Benjamin

WWE & World Tag Team Championship
Paul London & Brian Kendrick (c) vs John Morrison & The Miz
vs The UK Pack (c) vs The Pitbulls

WWE Cruiserweight Championship
Chavo Guerrero vs Matt Sydal
vs Kenny Dykstra (c) vs Michael Shane

WWE Womens Championship
Natalya barred from ringside & the title can change hands on a Disqualification
Victoria vs Beth Phoenix (c)


Questions

How many titles will change hands, if any?Three

Which match will main event the show?HBK vs. Edge

Which match will open the show? Crusierweights

How many announce tables will be broken? Two

Wrestlemania 25’s location will be revealed. Where will Wrestlemania XXV be held?Wembely London

Good Luck mate everything looks great, should be a great show​
 
#864 · (Edited)
WWE.com - HOMEPAGE (Wrestlemania Results - 30th March 2008)

Nige™ Presents. . .



***POSTER BY TKoW***


WRESTLEMANIA XXIV

Sunday March 30th 2008
The Citrus Bowl
Orlando, Florida


***THE PRE SHOW DARK MATCH***


FCW Heavyweight Championship – Tournament Final
Jake Hager vs. Vladimir Kozlov vs. James Reiher

ENDING:
Reiher pulls Kozlov up from his knees and sets him up for a CUTTER. . . . . Kozlov pushes Reiher away in to the ropes, and as Reiher runs back, Kozlov drives his boot in to his chest, sending Reiher down to the mat. As Hager stands up behind Kozlov and in the corner, the Russian turns round with Hager charging at him and connecting with a running knee lift. Hager then walks over to Reiher and drags him across the mat to the corner before climbing up to the second rope and bouncing on the rope. He then goes for a SLINGSHOT CORNER SPLASH. . . . . BUT REIHER GETS HIS KNEES UP. . . . . Hager drops to the side and clutches his chest with all three men down. Within the next five seconds, they all stand back up with Hager in the corner and Reiher just in front of him as Kozlov then charges at them both, going for a splash on both men, but Reiher steps to the side as Kozlov splashes Hager. As the Russian turns round, Reiher pulls him out of the corner and takes him down with a JUMPING SPINNING HEADLOCK ELBOW DROP. . . . . Reiher turns himself round on the mat and hooks the leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Reiher looks surprised as he sits up, but he gets on with things as he stands back up and pulls Kozlov back up to his knees, but Kozlov pushes him away and makes his own way to back up his feet. Reiher looks pissed and runs back at him, but Kozlov kicks him in the stomach and then lifts him up for a scoop slam, but he then sets him up for A REVERSE DDT. . . . . Before he can hit the move, Hager gets back up and runs out of the corner to clothesline Kozlov, breaking the hold. As Reiher turns to face him, Hager takes him down with a leg whip takedown. Hager then pulls Kozlov up from his knees and positions him for a SPIN OUT POWERBOMB. . . . . He gets Kozlov in to the air and slams him down to the mat, holding on for a pin, but Reiher stands back up and runs at Hager, AND NAILS HIM WITH THE CRACK ‘EM IN DA MOUTH. . . . . Hager falls to the side and to the mat as Reiher drops down and covers Kozlov with the ref counting the fall. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . 3.



WINNER: By pinfall, and the new FCW Heavyweight Champion, James Reiher


***TIME FOR THE MAIN SHOW***


***OPENING VIDEO***


Clips of historic Wrestlemania moments are shown

  • Vince McMahon introducing Wrestlemania I
  • Hulk Hogan body slamming Andre The Giant
  • The Ultimate Warrior racing down to the ring at Wrestlemania VI and defeating Hulk Hogan
  • Bret Hart rolling up Roddy Piper at Wrestlemania VIII
  • Bret Hart winning the WWF Championship at Wrestlemania X
  • Shawn Michaels becoming the WWF Champion at Wrestlemania XII
  • A bloody Stonecold Steve Austin fighting the sharpshooter at Wrestlemania XIII
  • Shane McMahon hitting the Coast to Coast on his dad at Wrestlemania XXVII
  • The Undertaker chokeslamming Triple H to the floor at Wrestlemania XVII
  • Stonecold Steve Austin beating The Rock thanks to Vince McMahon on the same night
  • Triple H winning the WWF Undisputed Championship at Wrestlemania XXVIII
  • Brock Lesnar’s disastrous shooting star press attempt against Kurt Angle at Wrestlemania XIX
  • Eddie Guerrero & Chris Benoit hugging at the end of Wrestlemania XX
  • Batista defeating Triple H to become the World Champion and John Cena winning the WWE Championship at Wrestlemania XXI
  • John Cena making Triple H tap at Wrestlemania XXII

VOICEOVER: There are moments in life that will never be forgotten. These moments will live on for eternity, such moments that will go down history as momentous shifts in time. . . Life is a continuous cycle that sees us all strive to achieve the ultimate goal of reaching up to claim that ultimate dream that seems so illusive. . . On this stage however, those dreams are not an illusion. . . they become all too real. . . You never know when your last chance will be. The meaning of life is to take your chance when you can, take it with both hands to make your own dreams come true. . .


Clips of location shots with Shawn Michaels, Edge, John Cena, Randy Orton, Kane, The Undertaker, Umaga, Evolution & The McMahon’s are shown before the highlights of the feuds

VOICEOVER: . . . For these superstars have that chance on this given night, on the grandest stage of them all to perform to the absolute that their body allows them to ensure their dreams do in fact become reality. . . But when dreams come true for some, dreams must fall by the wayside for others. . . This night will see dreams made and dreams shattered. Careers and legacies will be created right here where others have followed before them, for this stage is like no other. . . This stage is Wrestlemania.


***OFFICIAL WRESTLEMANIA XXIV THEME***
“Thanks for the Memories” by Fall Out Boy


***PYRO & FIREWORKS***
***PYRO & FIREWORKS ***
***PYRO & FIREWORKS ***
***PYRO & FIREWORKS ***
***PYRO & FIREWORKS ***


The cameras capture shots from every angle of The Citrus Bowl as the fans go crazy for Wrestlemania for a good minute before cutting to Lilian Garcia in the ring

Lilian Garcia:
Ladies and gentleman, welcome to WRESTLEMANIAAAA!!!

***HUGE POP***

Lilian Garcia:
And to sing our national anthem. . . WHITNEY HOUSTON

Whitney Houston stands at the top of the stage to sing the national anthem of The United States of America with the camera cutting to and from the crowd with a shot of an American Flag blowing in the wind being shown on the big screens. Whitney finishes and waves to the crowd, getting a huge pop as we cut to the Raw announce table


***OFFICIAL WRESTLEMANIA XXIV THEME***
“Thanks for the Memories” by Fall Out Boy



Jim Ross: Welcome everybody to Wrestlemania 24. It’s a great honour to be here tonight and we thank you for joining us live from The Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida. . . Tonight promises to be one of the truly biggest events in the history of sports entertainment, on a night that you will every single WWE title defended

Jerry Lawler: That’s right JR, every single title will be on the line here tonight, but there is far more than just titles at stake

Jim Ross: Oh absolutely King, there is so much at stake here tonight, and that is without a doubt the case when later on we see Evolution go to war with The McMahon’s in what could be one of the greatest battles ever to grace this occasion that is Wrestlemania

Jerry Lawler: Oh I can’t wait for that JR, just as much as I look forward to seeing Randy Orton ring true on his promise to make John Cena or Kane tap out tonight and retain the WWE Championship

Jim Ross: Well King, we’ll soon see about that, but for now, let’s hand it over to our colleagues from Smackdown, Michael Cole & The Coach

*The camera switches to the Smackdown announce table*

Michael Cole: Thanks JR, and yes tonight it is Wrestlemania and we thank you all very much for joining us on this very special occasion. And Coach, with so much at stake here tonight, just how incredible does it feel to be sitting here right now?

The Coach: Michael, this is the biggest spectacle on sport entertainment history period, nothing can or will ever beat this

Michael Cole: For one Coach I agree with you, but there a lot of superstars who don’t agree with each other, especially “The Rated R Superstar” Edge and the World Heavyweight Champion, Shawn Michaels who meet later on tonight for a lot more than just the world title, but for the title of Mr. Wrestlemania. . . One of those superstars will leave here tonight as Mr. Wrestlemania and the World Heavyweight Champion. . .The question just remains. . . who will that person be? Shawn Michaels or Edge? . . .

“Ain’t No Stoppin Me” hits as Shelton Benjamin makes his entrance to the open stadium, accompanied by Shannon Moore

Justin Roberts: This bout is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP. . . Introducing first, the challenger, from Orangeburg, South Carolina, weighing in at 248 pounds. . . SHELTON BENJAMIN!

***HEAT***

Michael Cole: . . . But we’re kicking off with a bang here tonight Coach with the United States Championship on the line

The Coach: We’re kicking it off with a bang for sure Michael because here comes the next United States Champion. . . my man, Shelton Benjamin

Michael Cole: Coach, there’s no doubting Shelton Benjamin’s ability, but he’s got to remember who he’s up against in Matt Hardy. . . Matt Hardy does not give up, he will give absolutely every ounce of energy he has tonight to keep hold off the title he won at the back end of last year. . . And personally I believe he will leave the same way he arrived here in Orlando, as the United States Champion

“Live for the Moment” blasts out as the United States Champion, Matt Hardy makes his way down to the ring, looking really pumped

***BIG POP***


Justin Roberts: And his opponent. . . from Cameron, North Carolina, weighing in at 236 pounds. . . he is the WWE United States Champion. . . MATT HARDY!

The Coach: Matt Hardy can give it a hundred percent tonight, two hundred, three hundred, it doesn’t change the fact we’ll be seeing someone else holding that belt after tonight, and that man is Shelton Benjamin

Michael Cole: Coach you’ve got to see this from Matt Hardy’s point of view. . . Shelton’s done nothing but bad mouth him personally, his title reign, and worst of all, he turned a long time friend of Matt’s against him just to twist the knife and give himself a slightly bigger chance of winning here tonight

The Coach: Shelton’s a clever guy Michael, people forget that. And that’s why he will not just win tonight, but he will bring truth to the name of the gold standard

Michael Cole: Well I guess we’re about to find out Coach, here we go kicking off Wrestlemania 24


***VIDEO RECAP***

  • Two weeks ago on Smackdown, the contract signing with Shannon Moore turning on Matt Hardy, hitting him in the side of the head with the title belt
  • From Friday night with Matt defeating Shannon Moore, only for Shelton Benjamin to attack him after with a title belt blow to the head
***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


***THE OPENING MATCH***



WWE UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP
Matt Hardy (c) vs. Shelton Benjamin w/Shannon Moore


The cocky challenger walks very smugly in to the middle of the ring as a disgusted Matt Hardy then walks over to meet him. The bell rings and Shelton starts talking smack as he and Matt go face to face with Matt just staring back and not letting Shelton get to him. That frustrates Shelton, who then slaps Matt across the face, getting a lot of gasps from the crowd who can’t believe his audacity. Matt turns straight back at Shelton with a look of real anger on his face, and he then nails him with a right hand to the face. Shelton looks pissed as he then goes for a right of his own, but Matt blocks it and hammers away at Shelton with two hard rights to the head. He then grabs him by the arm and whips him hard in to the corner, then charges in and drives his elbow in to the face of The Gold Standard.


Matt backs out of the corner with Shelton following and walking in to an arm drag. Matt immediately drops to his knees as Shelton sits up, applying a face lock and driving his knee in to the back of the challenger three times. He then focuses on the face lock and pulls tightly as Shelton tries to fight it, with Shannon Moore shouting words of encouragement on the outside. Shelton finds his way back on to his knee and then his feet, bringing his elbow back in to the ribcage of the United States Champion, forcing him to release the hold. Benjamin then grabs Matt by the head and takes him down to the canvas with a side headlock. Shelton holds on, but Matt fights the hold too with the crowd egging him on as they chant his name.


It helps him get back up to his feet and push Shelton in to the ropes, and as Shelton comes back, he ducks under Matt’s arm and runs through, coming back a second time only for Matt to knock him down with a clothesline. The crowd like that and they cheer as Benjamin hits the mat, but he’s right back up to his feet and in to a ready and waiting Matt Hardy who scoop slams him down to the mat, then runs back in to the ropes, runs back and drops an elbow across Shelton’s chest to another pop from the crowd. Matt stands back up and reaches down straight away to pull Benjamin back up, but as he tries for an irish whip, his challenger reverses it. As Hardy then races back off the ropes, he ducks underneath Shelton’s arm, runs through and comes back to take him down with a FLYING FOREARM. . . . .


The fans like that too as Matt stands back up to a big pop, with the champ urging his challenger up. Shelton decides to crawl over to the ropes instead, and after using them to get back up to his feet, Matt runs at him and takes him over the top to the outside with a clothesline, making the crowd happy yet again. The Gold Standard hits the deck, but it doesn’t take him too long to stand back up, and just as he walks towards the apron, Matt runs at the ropes and knocks Benjamin back down with a baseball slide, sliding through the ropes himself to land on his feet. Matt smiles and gets the crowd going by showing his delight at taking Shelton down. It doesn’t take long for Moore to get involved as he walks round on the outside towards Matt, keeping at a distance.


Matt sees him and isn’t impressed as he seems to offer Moore the chance to have a go at him, but Moore ducks it and taunts him instead with Matt then walking over to him. He looks in Shannon’s eyes, and Moore doesn’t want any part of Matt who turns back and climbs up on to the apron, but he’s in for a shock. Shelton is back on his feet and he hops on to the apron and hammers Matt with a couple of right forearms to the back. He then grabs Matt around the waist and then sends the crowd in to shock as he hits a GERMAN SUPLEX OFF THE APRON. . . . . Matt lands hard on the floor below as a grinning Shelton welcomes every boo to satisfy his own ego before jumping down off the apron and pulling Matt back up to toss him back in the ring, under the bottom rope. Shelton then slips back in and hooks Matt’s legs for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



Shelton looks a little surprised after Matt gets his shoulder up, and the challenger stands back up straight away. He bends down and drags Matt back up too with Matt’s back facing him as he grabs him around the waist for a GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . Benjamin hits it too, falling back and slamming Hardy’s back in to the mat, but he’s not done as he keeps the grip locked in and rolls back up to his feet with Matt in position for one more suplex. Matt doesn’t let it happen though as he swings his elbow round in to the side of Shelton’s head, breaking the grip Shelton had.


The crowd cheer as Matt then turns round to face his rival, only for Shelton to react instantly by going for Matt with a DRAGON WHIP. . . . . Matt holds on to Shelton’s left boot, but as Benjamin tries to nail Matt with his right foot, the US Champ ducks his head, resulting in Shelton landing on the canvas. A pop can be heard as Matt then pulls Shelton back up from his knees, standing behind him and then planting him with a SIDE RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP. . . . . . Both men fall back to the mat with Hardy turning over straight away and hooking the leg as the referee makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



Shelton kicks out as Matt gets back on with things straight away. He also pulls Shelton up to his knees, then turns back in to the ropes, but as he comes back, Shelton kicks him hard in the gut. Matt leans forward holding his stomach as Shelton explodes by running past him and SPRING BOARDING ON TO THE ROPES TO HIT A FLYING NECKBREAKER. . . . . Matt doesn’t stand a chance as he just hits the canvas with Shelton scurrying across to make a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . .


NO!



Matt’s not giving in as he gets his shoulder up, to the surprise of Shelton who thought he had it won there and then. The challenger stands up and gets right in the referee’s face, questioning the count, but the referee is dead firm with him, telling him it was just two and to back off. Shelton looks staggered and turns to look at Moore, who just shrugs his shoulders at him, leaving Shelton angry at the call. With Matt now coming round, Benjamin walks over to the corner and takes his time in climbing to the top rope. His time wasting looks like it could haunt him as Matt gets back to his feet and walks towards the ropes and falls back in to them with Shelton falling down to the canvas, but not landing all that hard. Matt takes a couple of seconds to recover by the ropes as Shelton makes his way back up to his feet. Matt walks over to Shelton as he stands close by to the corner and tries to pull him away, only for Benjamin to quickly shift behind him and take him down with AN INVERTED FACE LOCK BACK BREAKER. . . . . Matt looks to be pain as he hits the canvas with the determined challenger rushing to make a cover, hooking Matt’s nearest leg as the referee makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


FOOT ON THE ROPE!



The Gold Standard looks angry yet again as he sees Matt save himself. Shelton sits up and smashes his hands in to the mat in sheer frustration at the fact he can’t seem to put Hardy away. After a few seconds of having a strop, he stands back up, walks the short distance in to the corner and climbs back up to the top rope as Matt makes his way back up to his feet, albeit slowly. Shelton waits patiently, and as Matt turns round, Benjamin sees his cue and leaps off, going for a DIVING CROSS BODY. . . . . Matt catches him and rolls through, but Shelton counters yet again as both men race back up to their feet with Shelton throwing a right hand at the champion, but Matt ducks it and grabs the back of Shelton’s head, pulls it under his arm and nails him with A REVERSE DDT. . . . . The crowd cheers like mad as Matt hurries to shift across the canvas and hook the leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


NO!



Shelton kicks out leaving the crowd disappointed and Shannon Moore, relieved. He punches the air as Matt sits up and gets on with things, walking over to the corner and climbing to the top rope. Moore sees the danger and jumps up to the apron, distracting Matt and grabbing his foot. The referee walks over and tries to tell Moore to get down, but Matt’s former best friend holds on to his boot while Shelton slowly comes round and makes his way back up to his feet. Matt is eventually able to kick Moore down to the floor, but it’s too late as Shelton runs in to the corner, jumps up to the second rope and STUNS THE CROWD BY NAILING MATT WITH A SUPERPLEX. . . . . Gasps can be heard all over the arena as they come to terms with the huge leap from Shelton in addition to the suplex. Both men land hard on their backs and remain still for a good five seconds before Shelton turns himself over on to his front and crawls across to Hardy, and then stretches out his arm across Matt’s chest as the referee counts Matt’s shoulders. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . . 3?


SO CLOSE!!!



Matt lives to fight another day, just lifting his shoulder up off the canvas as the ref’s hand came down for the three. The fans cheer as Shelton lifts his head up in amazement that Matt was able to kick out of that. Slowly he starts to try and stand up, and as he just gets up to his feet, Matt makes his way back up to his knees. A worn out Shelton pulls the very sore looking champion up from his knees and pulls him in to position for a T BONE SUPLEX. . . . . The crowd panic, but with Shelton not totally recovered, he unwittingly wastes a couple of important seconds as Matt tries to get himself by free, and does so by driving his elbow in to the side of Benjamin’s head, knocking Shelton to the side. As Shelton staggers back round, Hardy fights for his life and title by ducking to his knees to lift Shelton on to his shoulder and tries to send him down to the canvas with THE RICOCHET. . . . . A big pop breaks out, but Shelton flips back off Matt’s shoulder to everyone’s amazement. Matt turns round in shock, but he wishes he didn’t as Shelton leans back and takes Matt’s head off with a SUPER KICK. . . . . Hardy just falls back in a heap as Shelton drops to his knees and hooks both legs for the cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . .


NO. . . . . HOW IS MATT DOING THIS?



Matt just gets his shoulder up as a frustrated Shelton sits up in shock and anger yet again, while Moore also looks stunned on the outside. The crowd love it though and they cheer like crazy for Matt, just angering Shelton more as he drags Matt back up to his feet, but he is distracted by the crowd and takes his eyes off Matt for a couple of seconds as he looks in to the crowd. It’s costly too as Matt takes him by surprise, as he pulls Benjamin’s head under his arm and then plants him with a SNAP SUPLEX. . . . . Both men remain on the mat for around ten seconds with the crowd chanting for Hardy while Moore shouts out words of encouragement for Benjamin. As they both make it to their feet, both looking totally out of it, Shelton swings a wild right hand at Matt, but the champion ducks under it and slips behind Shelton, then grabs him around the neck, then nails him with a SIT DOWN CRUCIFIX POWERBOMB. . . . . The fans go nuts as Matt tries for a cover of his own this time, hooking both of Shelton’s legs. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



Shelton gets his shoulder up, giving the fans reason to boo while Moore looks relieved yet again on the outside. Matt sits up and slowly makes his way back up to his feet, getting on with things as he then pulls Shelton back up from his knees, with Shelton already coming round. The US Champion whips The Gold Standard in to the corner, then runs in at him, but Benjamin lifts his boot up in to Matt’s face. Shelton pulls himself up to a sitting position on the top rope as Matt staggers out of the corner, but Matt comes right back him. He walks back in to the corner and blocks a right hand from Shelton to climb up to the top rope, but this time it’s Shelton who strikes back by hitting a right hand of his own. Matt remains on the second rope facing Shelton who then shocks everyone yet again as he hits a SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMB. . . . . Hardy’s back damn near impaled the mat as Shelton holds on to the legs for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . .


HOLY SHIT. . . . . MATT KICKS OUT!



Matt kicks Shelton off to the shock of the entire crowd, as well as Shannon Moore on the outside as he slumps down on to the apron, looking in total shock. Shelton sits back up and can’t believe it as he stares right at the referee who just signals it was a two count. What a start to Wrestlemania this is! Shelton’s eyes tell it all with their blank stare, but he stands back up as he sees Matt roll on to his side. He drags Matt back up, and then whips him in to the ropes, nailing him as he comes back with a RELEASE SAMOAN DROP. . . . . Matt hits the canvas hard yet again, and as Shelton sits up, he signals that it’s over before he turns round and goes for a cocky cover, not hooking either leg. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


NO!!!



Shelton pulls himself back up to his knees and bangs his hands against the mat again as he stares angrily at the referee. Eventually he gives it up as he gets back to his feet with Matt coming round and slowly picking himself back up, and as he gets close to standing up, Shelton stands up and urges the champion up, ready to unload. As Matt gets up and turns round, Shelton swings his boot at him for a ROUNDHOUSE KICK. . . . . Matt ducks his head though and then spins Shelton round to whip him in to the ropes, and as Shelton comes back, Matt lifts him over his head for a BACK BODY DROP. . . . . BUT SHELTON COUNTERS IN TO A DDT. . . . . Matt can’t catch a break as Shelton pulls out all the stops, but this time he’s not messing about as he hooks both legs for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . 3?


. . . . .


MATT DOES IT AGAIN!



Matt kicks out leaving Shelton infuriated. He stands up and gets right in the referee’s face, but he just snaps as the ref just tells him to shut up. Benjamin bends down and drags Matt back up to his feet, whips him in to the ropes and charges in at him for a STINGER SPLASH. . . . . BUT MATT STEPS OUT OF THE CORNER WITH SHELTON HITTING HIS HEAD ON THE RINGPOST. . . . . Matt walks out of the corner and turns round as Shelton staggers back out and turns round, walking right in to Matt grabbing him around the upper chest and planting him with THE SIDE EFFECT. . . . . A huge pop breaks out as Matt hooks Shelton’s legs for the cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . . NO!



It’s Shelton’s turn to leave Matt frustrated as the champion sits up and looking downbeat. Slowly he makes his way back up to his feet, not moving well after all the damage inflicted as Shelton starts to come round. He pulls Shelton back up from his knees and whips him in to the corner, then runs in and hits him with a clothesline and holds on to Benjamin’s head. He turns round and runs out of the corner, planting Shelton with a bulldog to a big pop from the crowd. Matt then walks back in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope before jumping off and connecting with a DIVING LEG DROP. . . . . The fans go nuts, cheering like mad as Matt picks himself back up as Shelton shows signs of movement too.


As Matt stands back up, he seems to be stalking Shelton for THE TWIST OF FATE. . . . . The fans rise to their feet, but it’s Shannon Moore that causes the problem as he rises to the apron. Matt runs over straight away and knocks him down with a knee smash to the chest. He turns back round and walks over to Shelton with the challenger just getting back up. Matt kicks him in the stomach, but Benjamin grabs and holds on to Matt’s foot. He spins it round, and as Matt turns back round, Shelton nails him with THE T BONE SUPLEX RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING. . . . . It looks all over, but Shelton can’t take advantage straight away as he remains still for a good few seconds before turning over and hooking the leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . .


NO. . . . . MATT HOLDS ON!



Again, Matt gets his shoulder up to deny Shelton the title. Shelton sits up and looks stunned yet again, but he then makes his way back up to his feet and walks in to the corner, waiting for Matt to stand back up. Slowly, Matt is able to get back up to a vertical base, but as soon as he turns round, Shelton charges at him for THE PAY DIRT. . . . . Matt sees him coming and sidesteps it as Shelton quickly puts the breaks on, but as he turns round, Matt kicks him in the gut, pulls Shelton’s head under his arm and sends him crashing down to the mat with THE TWIST OF FATE. . . . . The fans all stand up and watch on as Matt readjusts his position on the canvas to hook both of Shelton’s legs as the referee makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . . 3


DING DING DING!!



WINNER: By pinfall, and still WWE United States Champion, Matt Hardy @ 17.50.


AFTERMATH: “Live for the Moment” hits as Matt Hardy stands back up and gets his arm raised as well as receiving his title back. He walks over to the ropes and lifts it in the air, posing for the crowd, then walking over to the corner and celebrating there to a huge pop from the crowd.


Michael Cole: What a way to kick off Wrestlemania Coach. Matt Hardy retains his United States Championship with one hell of a performance

The Coach: I’m in shock Michael

Michael Cole: I said that the courage and determination of Matt Hardy would be crucial tonight, and we got the very best of Matt Hardy right here. . . He gave it absolutely everything he had, even countering the threat of Shannon Moore to remain the United States Champion

The Coach: I can’t believe it, I thought Shelton had this wrapped up

Michael Cole: Well it didn’t turn out that way Coach as Matt Hardy showed tonight that he would not die


***VIDEO PROMO***

Clips of superstars from both Raw & Smackdown are shown

VOICEOVER: There are times when changes need to be made. . . There are times when actions are taken out of people’s hands. . . And this time is coming. . . The time is tomorrow night, because it’s time to shake things up. . . It’s time for the WWE Draft. . . Live on USA tomorrow night!




***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Jeff Hardy is standing in his locker room when a heavy breathing and sweat ridden Matt Hardy walks in with the United States title sitting proudly on his shoulder. They walk towards each other and slap their hands together with big smiles on their faces.

***POP***

Jeff Hardy: Hey bro, what a match. You were awesome. . . You know I thought he had you for a while, but great job Matt!

Matt Hardy: Thanks Jeff, but you know I won’t be the only one walking out with gold tonight once you’re done with CM Punk. . . If I could get in there with you, you know I would, but I know you can get the job done all by yourself, and then we can make this a Wrestlemania to remember. . . Years from now, we can sit down with the grandkids at Christmas and tell them about the time we both left Wrestlemania as champions

***POP***

Jeff Hardy:
Matt, it’s not the gold I want. . . it’s payback. . . Punk’s run me and the fans down for months. . . But just like last Monday night, he’s gonna find out there’s nothing he can throw at me to make me quit. . . One of us has to quit tonight, but like you say bro. . . I will not die, and I sure as hell won’t let that S O B make me quit

***POP***

Matt Hardy:
There you go. . . You know it, I know it, the fans know it. . . tonight CM Punk’s gonna get what’s coming to him

***POP***

They have a guy hug with Matt then pulling away

Matt Hardy: Good luck bro, I’m rootin’ for ya!

Jeff Hardy: Thanks Matt


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


Lilian Garcia: This next bout is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WWE WOMENS CHAMPIONSHIP. . . In this match, the title can change hands by a disqualification

***POP***

“Glamazon” plays as Beth Phoenix walks out to the stage. She raises her belt above her head before walking down the ramp with the same pose

Lilian Garcia: Introducing first, from Buffalo, New York, weighing in at 146 pounds. . . she is the WWE Womens Champion. . . “THE GLAMAZON”, BETH PHOENIX!

***HEAT***

Jim Ross: . . . But right now, we’re about to see the first of four Raw championships defended tonight

Jerry Lawler: And my own personal favourite too JR. . . Divas time!

Jim Ross: I don’t think there’s going to be anything pretty about this contest King after what this woman has put Victoria through over the last few months

Jerry Lawler: Will you let it go JR, what happened was an accident

Jim Ross: Oh and screwing Victoria out of the title on more than one occasion wasn’t?

Jerry Lawler: Well I wasn’t talking about that JR

Jim Ross: Exactly. . . Victoria has been on the verge of taking that title from Beth Phoenix on two separate occasions in the last couple of months, and both times The Glamazon has cheated her out of it

Jerry Lawler: That’s her job JR, she’s supposed to keep her title at all costs. . .

“Ain’t The Lady To Mess With” blasts out. Victoria walks down the aisle, she and Beth stare intensely at each other

Lilian Garcia: And her opponent. . . the challenger, from San Bernardino, California, weighing in at 155 pounds. . . VICTORIA!

***POP***

Jim Ross: If there’s any justice in the world, this will be the night that Victoria finally becomes the Womens Champion. . . And don’t forget King, there’s no Natalya to worry about, and if Beth gets herself disqualified, Victoria will finally get her hands back on the WWE Womens Championship

Jerry Lawler: You make it sound so easy JR. . . Well let me tell you something. . . Beth Phoenix has pulled something out of the bag every time its mattered, and the same thing will happen again tonight. . . Never underestimate The Glamazon JR


***MATCH #2***



WWE WOMENS CHAMPIONSHIP
TITLE CAN CHANGE HANDS BY DISQUALIFICATION & NATALYA BANNED FROM RINGSIDE
Victoria vs. Beth Phoenix (c)


Victoria walks in to the middle of the ring while Beth stays in her corner and just stares at Victoria, but that sets the challenger off. Victoria runs right at The Glamazon and throws a right hand at her, then another two, hitting her back in to the corner. Victoria pummels her up against the pads and then she whips the champion in to the opposite corner. She charges in and hits her with a clothesline against her chest, and as Beth steps out of the corner, Victoria grabs her by the arm and whips her in to the ropes, and as The Glamazon comes back, Victoria sends her over head with a back body drop. Beth lands on her back and sits up straight away as she puts her right hand on her back to sell the bump. Victoria turns round and pulls Beth back up to her feet, then hit her with a forearm shot to the face before sending him back down to the mat with a scoop slam. Victoria runs back in to the ropes, and as she comes backs, she jumps up for a leg drop, but Beth rolls to the side with Victoria landing on her ass.


Both divas then make their way back up to their feet with Beth kicking Victoria in the gut and then pulling her in to a headlock. Squeezing tightly on her challenger’s head, The Glamazon looks very intense, but as the fans get behind Victoria, the challenger tries to escape by driving her elbow back in to the stomach of Beth Phoenix. She forces Beth to let the hold go with the champion clutching her stomach as Victoria runs forward in to the ropes, but as she comes back, Beth strikes her across the upper chest with an axe handle strike, knocking Victoria down to the mat. Beth takes a second before reaching down to pull Victoria back up where she then whips her in to the ropes, and as Victoria comes back, The Glamazon grabs her around the waist and takes her down hard in to the mat with a SIDEWALK SLAM. . . . . With Victoria’s back crashing in to the mat, Beth readjusts her position on the mat before making a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



Victoria kicks out as Beth sits up and looks angrily in the direction of the referee, who just carries on with things. Beth then stands back up and drags Victoria back up with her, pulling her head under her arm and then lifting her vertically up in to the air. He then walks over to the ropes and drops Victoria’s legs down on to the ropes before pulling her back and falling back to the mat with a SLINGSHOT SUPLEX. . . . . Victoria lands hard on the mat as she arches her back slightly, only for Beth to get back on her like a rash as The Glamazon hooks both her challenger’s legs, trying for another cover as the referee counts Victoria’s shoulders. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



The challenger gets her shoulder up, leaving Beth frustrated. She stares at the referee again for a split second before standing back up, looking very serious as she once again pulls Victoria back up, with the challenger seeming to be in bad shape. She grabs her face with both hands and seems to be taunting Victoria before then trying for an irish whip, only for it to be reversed, and as Beth comes back off the ropes, Victoria turns side on and lifts her elbow up in to Beth’s face. It knocks Beth down for a second, but she fights on as she gets back up very quickly, with Victoria trying to take charge of the match as she grabs Beth by the head and then hits a snap mare. The Glamazon falls in to a seated position on the mat with Victoria then nailing her with a seated dropkick to the back, leaving Beth falling back to the mat in pain. Victoria then walks over to the ropes and climbs through them to stand on the apron, half way between each corner. With Beth still down, the challenger grabs hold of the top rope with both hands before using them to lift her back in to the ring and connect with a SLINGSHOT SOMERSAULT LEG DROP. . . . . Beth feels the force of Victoria’s leg across her throat and looks in trouble as Victoria goes for her first cover of the match. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



Beth makes an easy kick out, and Victoria takes it on the chin as she lets go of Beth’s legs and stands back up. She walks round to Beth’s head and sits her up, then grabs her by the head and wraps her legs around The Glamazon’s chest, locking in body scissors on the now troubled Womens Champion. And boy does she look troubled as she fights for every breath with Victoria making it very difficult for her to move, let alone breathe. The challenger looks in control, but Beth starts to show signs of a fight back as she rolls on to her side with Victoria panicking ever so slightly. The Glamazon is now able to roll on to her knee and then up her to feet with Victoria holding on to the headlock as she stands up too. Beth fights it with elbows and is able to power out of the hold as Victoria clutches her chest, and she then demonstrates her power as she lifts Victoria up above her head and holds her there for several seconds before dropping her down to the mat with a GORILLA PRESS SLAM. . . . .


Beth smiles in to the crowd, but gets heat back with boos ringing out. She laughs it off and turns round to reach down and drag Victoria back up to her feet, then sets her up for a GUT WRENCH SUPLEX. . . . . The cocky champion takes her time before lifting Victoria up on to her shoulder, but the challenger slides down and pushes Beth back in to the ropes, and as the champion comes back, both she and Victoria hit each other with a clothesline, sending both divas down to the mat. It takes a good ten seconds before both men are able to struggle back up to their feet, and it’s the champion who strikes first as she throws a right at Victoria, but it’s blocked. Victoria strikes back with a kick to the stomach of The Glamazon and then levels her with a forearm shot to the face before whipping her in to the ropes, and as Beth bounces back off the ropes, Victoria lifts her up off the mat and takes her down with a SPINNING POWERSLAM. . . . . Victoria holds on to Beth’s legs and hopes she can wrap it up as the referee makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


KICK OUT!



Beth kicks out to the dismay of Victoria. She stays seated on the mat for several seconds, looking a little downbeat as Beth starts to sit up, prompting Victoria to make her way back up too. Victoria attempts to pull Beth up from her knees, the champion stands up herself and throws a wild right which Victoria ducks with Beth spinning round in the process. Now standing with her back to Victoria, she feels the challenger grab her around the waist before being slammed back with a BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


SHOULDER UP!



Beth just saves herself by lifting her shoulder up at the last second. Victoria lets go of the champion’s waste and makes her way back up to her feet while Beth crawls towards the ropes and uses them to help herself back up to their feet with Victoria ready and waiting to explode. Just as Beth is able to stand back up, Victoria charges at her, only for The Glamazon to nail her with a forearm shot to the face, sending Victoria staggering back in to the middle of the ring. Beth waits for Victoria to turn round, and as she does, The Glamazon runs right at her, but VICTORIA SEES HER COMING AND NAILS HER WITH A SAVOTE KICK. . . . . Beth just falls flat on her back with Victoria dropping to her knees, still not looking fully recovered as she hooks the leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


SO CLOSE!!!



Beth gets her shoulder up to the amazement of the crowd as Victoria sits up and looks in absolute shock to see the referee signalling a two count. She drops her head in to her hands as Beth remains out of it on the mat. Victoria decides to strike now as she stands back up, pulling Beth up at the same time and places the champ’s head between her legs before lifting her up above her head for THE WIDOW’S PEAK. . . . . The crowd cheer like crazy, but Beth starts to fight it and is able to wriggle down off Victoria’s shoulder and to safety. Victoria looks shocked as she turns round in to a hard forearm shot, a kick to the gut and finished off with a DDT. . . . . Victoria’s head just smacks in to the canvas, and Beth looks to get this all over and done with as she drops to the mat and turns Victoria on to her back before hooking the leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


NOT JUST YET!!!



Beth looks absolutely stunned as Victoria lifts that shoulder up, giving the Florida fans the chance to rub The Glamazon’s faith in it as they cheer to her anger. She seems to lose it and rushes up to her feet, reaches down to pull Victoria up before whipping her in to the corner and charging in, hitting her with an elbow smash to the face. Victoria ducks her head straight away, holding it in pain, but Beth doesn’t give her the chance to recover as she lifts her up on to the top rope in a sitting position. Beth climbs up to the second rope and looks to be setting Victoria up for THE BETH VALLEY DRIVER. . . . . Beth tries to lift Victoria on to her shoulders, but Victoria is having none of it as she fights for her life and pushes Beth down to the mat, getting a pop from the crowd.


Victoria then stands up on the second rope, then turns round and climbs up to the top rope as the fans cheer, watching on as Victoria then flips back off the top for a MOONSAULT. . . . . BUT THE GLAMAZON LIFTS HER KNEES UP IN TO VICTORIA’S STOMACH. . . . . Victoria rolls across the mat as she holds on to her stomach while Beth starts to sit up. The Glamazon is up first, but Victoria gets to her knees as Beth walks towards her and then whips her in to the ropes. As Victoria comes back, Beth grabs her around the upper chest and tosses her behind with a BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . Victoria falls hard on the mat and Beth looks to add the final touch as she stands back up and drags Victoria back up too. She pulls Victoria’s head under her arm and sets her up for THE FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX. . . . . Victoria looks in danger, but she surprises Beth by pulling her head out of the grasp and slips behind the champion.


Victoria then spins Beth round, only for the champion to kick her in the stomach and spin her back round. The Glamazon then lifts Victoria up by the arms for a LIFTING DOUBLE CHICKEN WING FACE DROP. . . . . Victoria fights it though by kicking her feet and is able to slip down and back to her feet. Beth panics as she spins Victoria round, but the challenger blocks it and lifts Beth up for a FIREMAN’S CARRY. . . . . VICTORIA THEN SPINS BETH ROUND AND PLANTS HER WITH A TILT A WHIRL SLAM. . . . . SHE HITS THE SPIDER’S WEB. . . . . Beth is motionless on the mat, but Victoria doesn’t think it’s enough as she bends down and drags her back up, setting her up once again for THE WIDOW’S PEAK. . . . . The fans all stand up as JR questions whether she can hit it this time as she lifts Beth up above her head and then down her back before bringing her crashing back face first. . . . . SHE HITS IT. . . . . Beth lands hard on the mat as Victoria rushes to hook both legs and make the cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . . 3.


NEW CHAMPION!!!



WINNER: By pinfall, and new WWE Womens Champion, Victoria @ 11.29.


AFTERMATH: “Ain’t The Lady To Mess With” blasts out to a big pop from the crowd as Victoria sits back up in shock. The referee walks over to the ropes and collects the title belt as a delighted Victoria stands up and is then passed the belt. She gets her arm raised before lifting the belt up in to the air. Natalya then makes her way down the aisle and reaches inside the ring to pull the now former champion out of the ring. Beth looks very dazed still as Victoria turns round and sees Natalya looking angry with Beth looking in shock. Victoria turns her back on them as she then walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope to pose with her title while Natalya and Beth look on with some not so happy expressions on their faces.


Jim Ross: Justice has been done. . . We have a new Women’s Champion, and her name is Victoria

Jerry Lawler: Check out that look though JR. . . this isn’t over. . . .Victoria might have won here tonight, but I don’t think Beth and Natalya are going to let her enjoy it for much longer


***VIDEO PROMO***

FROM EARLIER TODAY


Evolution, the pregnant Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley & Linda McMahon are shown arriving in to the arena, with Evolution dragging their travel bags behind them. Todd Grisham tries to catch up with them as they walk down the hall with Triple H leading the way.

***BIG POP***

Todd Grisham: Hunter, any chance I can get your comments on what happened on Raw Monday night when you hit Eric Bischoff in the head with a steel chair?

Triple H stops, as do the others behind him

Triple H: Todd, everyone can see that was an accident, but the same can’t be said for when we get our hands on Vince and his bastard sons tonight

A bruised and not so happy looking Eric Bischoff walks in to the shot, unnerving everyone

***MIXED RECEPTION***

Eric Bischoff:
Hunter, I think we need to talk. . . Todd if you don’t mind, I’ll take care of this

Triple H: Eric. . .

Eric Bischoff: . . . I don’t wanna hear it. . . You can see why I’m here, this nice colour arrangement around my eye didn’t just happen by coincidence did it?. . .

Batista steps forward, trying to calm things down

Batista: Whoa, Eric. . .

Eric Bischoff: . . . Dave, with all due respect, I need to say something. . .

Batista steps back and holds his hands up, allowing Bischoff to continue

Batista: Alright

Eric Bischoff: . . . Thanks Dave. . . Hunter, I know we’ve had our problems in the past, but I’d like to think we’ve got past that and forged a solid working relationship. I know we’ll never be friends, but I need to know on a strictly business level that what happened to me was an accident

Triple H: Eric, I think we both know there’s been times when we’ve both wanted to hit each other with steel chairs. . . But you have my word, what happened Monday was an accident. Watch it back and you’ll see what I had in mind, the same thing I have in mind for tonight. . . disfigure every male member of the McMahon family. . . Even Vince’s wife and daughter are here to see it, not that I’m letting them get that close to him after what he’s put them through. . . But you know the best thing Eric? . . . There’s not a thing they can do to stop it. . . Now if it’s okay with you, can we go?

Eric Bischoff: By all means. . . Oh, and good luck tonight

They all walk past with Bischoff smiling, but before Linda can walk with them, Bischoff holds out his arm to stop her

Eric Bischoff: Linda, are you sure you’re okay with watching them go after Shane tonight?

Linda McMahon: Eric, just like Vince, Shane has brought everything on himself, and he has to do what me and his father have always taught him to. . . face up to the consequences of his actions, and that’s what he has to do tonight. . . I’ll talk to you later Eric

Eric Bischoff: Bye Linda

Bischoff stares down the hall as Linda walks off to join Stephanie.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


Lilian Garcia: This next contest is the MONEY IN THE BANK LADDER MATCH

***HUGE POP***

Jerry Lawler: Here we go JR

“Booyaka 619” blasts out & Rey Mysterio walks out to the stage with the fans standing up and applauding

Lilian Garcia: Introducing first, from San Diego, California, weighing in at 165 pounds. . . REY MYSTERIO!

Jim Ross: And here comes the human highlight reel. . . Rey Mysterio

Jerry Lawler: You’ve got to think tonight JR that he will be the centrepiece of the highlight reel the way he likes to fly around the ring with a care in the world

Jim Ross: Oh without doubt King, but I can’t help but think that with all the odds stacked against him tonight, we might just see Rey Mysterio prove once again why he is the ultimate underdog and walk out of here with the Money in the Bank contract

Jerry Lawler: I’m not sure JR, it’s a big ask. . . I mean you’ve got five other superstars in there. . .

***BIG POP***

“Don’t Waste My Time” hits & Elijah Burke walks down to the ring with a very serious look on his face

Lilian Garcia:
. . .And, from Jacksonville, Florida, weighing in at 230 pounds. . . ELIJAH BURKE!

***HEAT***

Jim Ross: Well if you wanna talk underdogs, he comes another

Jerry Lawler: I’m not so sure JR, did you see the way he stood up to MVP Friday night? . . . I think we’ve got a real contender here in Elijah Burke

Jim Ross: He sure surprised me by telling MVP where to go, but he’d surprise me even more if he won tonight

Jerry Lawler: Well it wouldn’t be a surprise to me JR, anyone can win this thing, it’s so unpredictable. That’s the beauty of the Money in the Bank ladder match. . . You know with the cuts and bump aside JR

“I’m Comin” plays as MVP walks out to the open air stadium with Burke staring right at him

Lilian Garcia: From Miami, Florida, weighing in at 252 pounds. . . Montel Vontavious Porter. . . MVP!

***A LOT OF HEAT***

Michael Cole: And here comes Smackdown’s only representative. . . MVP

The Coach: He’s not just the only Smackdown superstar Michael, he’ll be the only one left standing tonight because I’m making a prediction right now. . . MVP will leave The Citrus Bowl as Mr. Money in the Bank

Jim Ross: Well I hope to god you’re wrong Coach, not just for Raw’s sake but to stop this guy’s ego getting any bigger

Michael Cole: Oh it couldn’t get any bigger JR, trust me!

“Hell Will Be Callin Your Name” blasts out as a stern looking Bobby Lashley makes his way down to the ring

Lilian Garcia:
From Colorado Springs, Colorado, weighing in at 275 pounds. . . BOBBY LASHLEY!

***POP***

Jim Ross: And here comes a real dark horse folks. . . literally

Michael Cole: I have to agree with you JR, Bobby Lashley has made one hell of an impression over the last month or so, putting Chris Jericho, Mr. Kennedy and MVP firmly in their place on a number of occasions

The Coach: Michael, Lashley is out of his comfort zone tonight. He’s not about climbing ladders, he doesn’t stand a chance if you ask me

Jerry Lawler: Well we weren’t asking you Coach, but I can tell you one thing, Lashley is all about roughing people up, and he can do that tonight, that’s for sure

“Turn Up The Treble” plays as Mr. Kennedy makes his way in to the arena, looking very focused

Lilian Garcia:
From Green Bay, Wisconsin, weighing in at 243 pounds. . . MR. KENNEDY!

***MIXED RECEPTION***

Jerry Lawler: And here’s the man to beat fellas, my bet. . . last year’s winner, MR. KENNEDYYYYY

Jim Ross: He’s certainly in with a good chance King. You can’t put enough emphasis on experience, and Mr. Kennedy certainly has that after winning last year

Michael Cole: Can he do it again this year? . . . We’ll just have to wait and see

“Break The Walls Down” blasts out & Chris Jericho looks very confident as he walks down the ramp

Lilian Garcia:
And finally, from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, weighing in at 226 pounds. . . Y2J, CHRIS JERICHO!

***BIG POP***

Jim Ross: It seems that Y2J Chris Jericho is many people’s favourite to win here tonight, and we’re not going to have wait long to find out if that will indeed be the case

The Coach: You know JR, I think Jericho thinks he already has this in the bag when he doesn’t. He’s got more of a fight on his hands than he realises. . . If he’s big headed enough to think he’s got this wrapped up, then he can only blame himself when it all comes crashing down on him

Michael Cole: Well that remains to be seen Coach, I think we should just sit back and enjoy what should be a great match


***MATCH #3***



MONEY IN THE BANK LADDER MATCH
Chris Jericho vs. Bobby Lashley vs. Rey Mysterio
vs. Elijah Burke vs. Mr. Kennedy vs. MVP


Jericho walks in to the ring and looks round at all five men, as they all share nervous glances at each other. Y2J then walks in to the centre of the ring with Lashley charging at him and taking him down with a tackle. As he then pummels Jericho with right hands to the head, Rey & Burke go at each other, as do Kennedy & MVP. While Rey & Burke exchange right hands, MVP stands face to face with Kennedy and talk smack right at him, but Kennedy grins and then knocks him down with a hard right hand. The Franchise Player stands back up with Kennedy then whipping him in to the ropes, and runs right in at him and clotheslines him over the top to the outside.


Kennedy follows him out as Burke puts Rey on the back foot and whips him in to the ropes, but the master of the 619 SPRINGBOARDS OFF THE ROPES AND HITS A CROSS BODY. . . . . On the outside, Kennedy pulls MVP up to his feet and whips him right in to the barricade, back first and then stomps him repeatedly in the chest. Back inside, Lashley stands back up and pulls Jericho up too, then whips him hard in to the corner. He runs in and nails him with a hard clothesline. Jericho staggers out in to a kick to the gut from Lashley, who then pulls Jericho’s head under his arm and lifts him vertically up in to the air with just one arm. He holds him up there for a good five seconds before falling back to the mat with a ONE ARM DELAYED VERTICAL SUPLEX. . . . .


The fans cheer, but there are some boos mixed in. At the same time as Lashley’s assault on Jericho, Rey stands back up and brings Burke up with him, but The Guiding Light hits him in the chest with a right hand. He stands back up and nails him with a hard right hand to the head before whipping him in to the ropes, and as Rey comes back, Burke takes him down with a FALLING CLOTHESLINE. . . . . As Burke stands up grinning, he steps back in to the chest of a mean looking Bobby Lashley. He turns round slowly and looks worried as he sees Lashley standing right in front of him, and it’s Lashley who reacts first as he nails Burke with a series of right hands, sending Burke spinning round in a daze.


Lashley doesn’t waste a second as he grabs him around the waist, then sends him flying behind with a FLIPPING RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . The momentum takes Burke under the bottom rope as he lands hard on his back by the ropes. While this is going on, on the outside, Kennedy picks up one of the ladders (a smaller one), and slides it in the ring and climbs back in himself as Lashley stands back up with his back to Kennedy. Double K picks up the ladder as Lashley turns round, then charges at Bobby, but Lashley lifts his boot up in to the ladder. Kennedy falls back to the mat with the ladder landing on top of him.


Lashley then walks over and pulls the ladder off of Kennedy, then walks in to the corner and stands it up against the pads. The crowd are cheering now as the ladder comes in to play with Lashley walking back over to Kennedy and pulling him back up to his feet. He drags Kennedy back up and whips him hard in to the corner with KENNEDY’S BACK SMASHING IN TO THE STEEL LADDER. . . . . Kennedy staggers out of the corner holding his back and looking in pain as Lashley kicks him in the gut, then lifts him up in to the air and slams him down to the mat with THE DOMINATOR. . . . . He then turns his attention to the ladder as he walks in to the corner to collect it. He walks in to the middle of the ring and sets it up under the much coveted briefcase. He starts to climb it with Jericho getting back up to his feet slowly. . . . .


LASHLEY UP ONE RUNG. . . . .


UP TWO RUNGS. . . . .


3 RUNGS. . . . .


Jericho gets up and walks over to the ladder


4 RUNGS FOR LASHLEY. . . . .



Jericho reaches up and pulls Lashley down by the trunks. He lands on his feet with Jericho then kicking him hard in the gut and running past him to bounce off the ropes, and as he comes back, Jericho takes Lashley down with a ONE ARM BULLDOG. . . . . As Jericho stands back up, so does Rey with Y2J spotting him getting back up to his feet. He walks over to Rey and chops the Mexican across the chest twice before grabbing him by the arm and whipping him in to the ropes. As Rey hits the ropes, he holds on to them with Jericho then running in at him with Mysterio lifting his boot up in to the face of Y2J.


Jericho staggers away from the ropes holding his face as Rey then runs out at him, jumps on to his shoulder and takes him down with a bulldog while MVP stands back up on the outside and picks up a huge 20 foot ladder. Jericho’s face rebounds off the mat as Mysterio stands back up to a pop from the crowd with MVP sliding the ladder in to the ring and climbing in himself. He sees Rey getting back up and picks the ladder up as Rey turns round to walk towards the ladder, MVP runs at him and knocks him down, DRIVING THE LADDER IN TO REY’S FACE. . . . . Rey just falls straight to the mat and lands by the ropes, crawling on to the apron as a smug MVP drops the ladder and climbs the smaller one that’s already set up. . . . .


UP ONE RUNG. . . . .


UP TWO. . . . .


Burke slides back in under the bottom rope


MVP UP THREE RUNGS. . . . .


FOUR. . . . .



Burke walks over to the ladder behind MVP and pulls him down by grabbing his foot. MVP lands on his feet and looks shocked to see Burke standing there in front of him. MVP tries to reason with Burke, but the friend who left him hanging on Friday stares back with anger in his eyes, which winds MVP up as he starts mouthing off at him. Burke snaps and nails him with a right hand, and follows up with a succession of jabs to the jaw. He grabs the off balance Franchise Player by the arm and whips him in to the ropes, and as MVP comes back, Burke sends a statement of intent by nailing him with a LIFTING SPINNING SIT DOWN SPINEBUSTER. . . . . Both Kennedy & Lashley show signs of movement as Burke then walks back over to the ladder and starts to climb it. . . . .


UP ONE RUNG. . . . .


UP TWO. . . . .


Kennedy gets up to his feet and walks towards the ladder


UP THREE. . . . .


UP FOUR. . . . .



Kennedy grabs the ladder from side on as Lashley gets to his knees too, watching Kennedy then push the ladder on to its side with Burke falling over the top rope to the outside. Kennedy then picks up the bigger ladder and sets it up. He starts to climb it as Lashley is able to stand back up. . . . .


KENNEDY UP ONE RUNG. . . . .


UP ANOTHER. . . . .



Lashley walks up to the ladder and climbs up one rung behind Kennedy, clubbing him across the back. He then lifts Kennedy on to his shoulders before falling back to the mat with both men falling hard on to their backs. Both MVP & Jericho make their way back up to their feet, and as they stand up opposite each other, MVP charges at Y2J with Jericho nailing him with a SPINNING WHEEL KICK. . . . . MVP falls back to the mat as Jericho hits the deck too but he makes his way back up quickly.


He sees Rey getting back up on the apron, runs in to the corner and KNOCKS REY OFF THE APRON WITH A SPRINGBOARD DROPKICK. . . . . As he picks himself back up, MVP is getting up behind him and grabs the smaller ladder that saw Burke fall to the outside. The Half Man Half Amazing superstar then sees Jericho turn round and THROWS THE LADDER RIGHT AT HIM. . . . . Jericho falls in a heap to the mat as MVP smirks before turning back round to walk over to the huge ladder where he starts to climb it with all of the other five superstars down and out. . . . .


MVP STEPS UP TO THE FIRST RUNG. . . . .


AND THE SECOND. . . . .


AND THE THIRD. . . . .


UP TO FOUR. . . . .


Rey starts to make his way back up to his feet on the outside and slowly walks to the ring


MVP UP TO THE FIFTH. . . . .


UP ANOTHER AND GETTING CLOSER. . . . .


Mysterio climbs on to the apron and steadies himself, holding on to the top rope


MVP CLIMBS UP TO TOWARDS THE PROMISED LAND. . . . .



Rey holds the top rope and sees the danger, then SPRINGBOARDS OFF THE TOP ROPE AND DROPKICKS THE LADDER FROM IN FRONT OF MVP, WHO FALLS TO THE MAT ALONG WITH THE LADDER. . . . . A big pop rings out as Rey comes to the rescue with all six men laid out with MVP rolling under the ropes to the outside. Lashley & Kennedy start to roll over and slowly get themselves back up. Kennedy is up first and walks round to climb up the ladder with Lashley climbing up the other side. . . . . Kennedy stays two rungs ahead of Lashley, but panics as he sees the big man catching him up. He stops and throws a right hand at Lashley, then continues to climb further up to the top. . . . .


KENNEDY UP ANOTHER TWO RUNGS. . . . .


LASHLEY STARTS CLIMBING AGAIN TO TRY TO CATCH UP. . . . .


KENNEDY GETS CLOSE TO THE PRIZE AND REACHES UP. . . . .


LASHLEY CATCHES UP AS KENNEDY DESPERATELY TRIES TO GRAB THE BRIEFCASE. . . . .



Kennedy can’t grab it, and Lashley hits him with a right hand across the chest, forcing Kennedy’s hands to drop and let go of the briefcase. Lashley continues to fight with a right hand to the head, but Kennedy hammers right back with one of his own, then pushes Lashley off to the side. Just as Kennedy reaches up, Lashley lands on his knees and rushes back up to his feet with Jericho also getting back up. Lashley walks towards the ladder, but Jericho runs up behind him and pushes him in to the side of the ladder as it then falls to the side with Kennedy then falling onto the ropes and landing on the mat. Rey & Lashley both make their way back up to their feet as Jericho pulls the ladder back up to stand it up directly under the briefcase. As he turns round, Lashley grabs his arm and whips him in to the ropes.

But as he comes back, Jericho sidesteps as Rey walks innocently walks in to a SPEAR FROM LASHLEY. . . . . Rey took a blow there and rolls across the ring holding his chest while Jericho makes a dash to climb up the ladder, but Lashley turns back and walks over to the ladder. He grabs Jericho by the top of his tights and pulls him down to the floor, with Jericho landing gently on his back with Lashley not pulling him that hard. Lashley then takes his turn to climb up the ladder, but the soft landing has Jericho back up straight away as he runs back at the ladder, JUMPS UP TO THE SECOND RUNG AND HITS LASHLEY WITH THE CODEBREAKER. . . . . The fans like that as both men drop down to the mat, but Jericho is the first to come round, and within ten seconds, he’s back up on his feet. He walks over to the ladder and slowly makes his way up. . . . .


UP THE FIRST RUNG. . . . .


AND THE SECOND. . . . .


3 RUNGS NOW FOR Y2J. . . . .


UP FOUR AND JERICHO LOOKS TO BE UNCHALLENGED. . . . .


UP A FIFTH. . . . .


Elijah Burke slides back inside the ring


JERICHO UP TO THE 6TH RUNG



Burke walks towards the ladder and to the opposite side to Jericho. He grabs Y2J by the foot to stop him climbing, and then pulls him down a couple of rungs. He then climbs up his side of the ladder to catch Jericho up, but Y2J also starts climbing too as they both get towards the top. They’re both within touching distance as Jericho throws a right at Burke, but it’s returned by The Guiding Light, as both men slug it out back and forth at the top of the ladder. Y2J then blocks a right from Burke and rakes his eyes.


Cheers ring out as Jericho then pulls Burke’s head across and under his arm before jumping back off the ladder for A SUPLEX OFF THE TOP OF THE LADDER. . . . . Both men hit the mat hard with the momentum forcing Burke to roll to the ropes and under the bottom rope to the outside as Jericho rolls around on his back. With everyone down and out, the opportunity presents itself to Mysterio as he gets back up to a pop from the crowd. He looks round and sees a clear path as he walks over to the ladder and starts to make his way up it with the crowd chanting his name. . . . .


UP ONE RUNG. . . . .


UP TWO. . . . .


AND 3. . . . .


4. . . . .


5 . . . . .


AND 6. . . . .


7. . . . .


Rey stops and reaches up and gets his hands on the briefcase, Mr. Kennedy gets to his knees and crawls across to the ladder. He grabs the base of the ladder and lifts it up, tipping it back with Rey falling back and to the outside of the ring, falling against the barricade before hitting the floor to boos from the crowd as Kennedy stands up and pulls the ladder back up. Kennedy pulls himself on to the ladder, but before he can start to make his way up it, Lashley stands back up with Kennedy still not fully recovered. Lashley walks over and spins Kennedy round, then tries for an irish whip, but Kennedy reverses it and pulls Lashley right back in to him, kicking him in the gut and then planting him with THE MIC CHECK. . . . . Lashley rolls across the mat as Kennedy stands back up and stares up at the briefcase as he walks back over to the ladder, climbing up it rung by rung. . . . .


UP ONE. . . . .


TWO. . . . .


THREE. . . . .


FOUR. . . . .


Jericho starts to sit up


FIVE RUNGS FOR KENNEDY. . . . .


UP ANOTHER. . . . .



Jericho stands up as Kennedy gets up another and then reaches up to try and claim the briefcase, getting his hands to it, but Jericho crawls over to the side of the ladder. He uses it to stand up and shakes it with Kennedy taking his hands off the briefcase to try and hold still on the ladder. Jericho then walks round to the base of the ladder and starts to climb it up while Kennedy panics and tries to pull the briefcase down as Jericho gets closer and closer to him. Kennedy can’t quite pull it down as Jericho gets close to the top and nails Kennedy with a right hand to the chest. He then reaches up and tries to get his hands on the briefcase when we see MVP slide back in the ring.


He stands back up looking a little unsteady on his feet as he picks up the smaller ladder and walks to the big ladder, where he drives the ladder in to Kennedy’s ribs twice, knocking him down to the floor. Jericho has the prize in his hands, but MVP smashes the ladder in to the ribcage of Y2J, knocking him off balance before nailing him again and knocking him down to the mat too. He rolls around in agony, as does Kenny while MVP drops the ladder on the mat and climbs up the bigger one. The crowd boo as he slowly makes his way up the ladder. . . . .


ONE RUNG CLEARED. . . . .


UP ANOTHER. . . . .


PASSED THE THIRD. . . . .


UP FOUR. . . . .


MVP CLEARS THE FIFTH. . . . .


Rey Rey starts to come round


SIX RUNGS NOW FOR MVP. . . . .


ANOTHER AS HE GETS WITHIN TOUCHING DISTANCE. . . . .



Mysterio crawls to the base of the ladder, desperately trying to stop MVP as he reaches up to grab the briefcase. Rey looks out of it still as he puts his hands on the ladder, but MVP gets his hands firmly on the briefcase. Rey tries to stand up, but is it too late? MVP tries to pull the briefcase down in a frenzy. . . . . HE DOES IT. . . . . HE HAS THE BRIEFCASE AND THE CONTRACT. . . . . IT’S OVER!


WINNER: And holder of the Money in the Bank Contract, MVP @ 15.29.


AFTERMATH: “I’m Comin” hits as MVP raises the briefcase above his head while Mysterio slumps back to the mat. There’s no hiding the smile on MVP’s face as he brings the briefcase in to his chest and holds it tight. He then steps down a couple of rungs before jumping down to the floor. He lifts it up in the air again with a huge grin on his face before climbing through the ropes to jump down to the floor below. He turns round and faces the ring with Jericho sitting up and looking pissed as MVP raises his new belonging high in to the air as he backs up the ramp with a massive smile on his face, taunting the crowd in the process. The camera follows him all the way up to the top of the stage where he then turns round and walks to the back.


The Coach: What did I say? . . . MVP is Mr. Money in the Bank. . . I told you

Jim Ross: Well I’m glad we won’t have to put up with his bragging Friday night King

Jerry Lawler: Right!

Michael Cole: Well JR, you might just get the chance to hear a victory speech tomorrow night if MVP gets drafted to Raw

Jim Ross: God help me!

The Coach: You all need to be quiet and show some respect. . . He has just put on the best performance of his life, and what does he get? . . . You should stand up and show him the respect that he deserves as the next World Champion

Jerry Lawler: I won’t if it’s all the same with you!

Jim Ross: I’ll say this for him Coach, it takes a lot to win a match like this folks, and we might just be looking at a future world champion


***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Victoria is standing in the back, proudly holding her Womens Championship belt with some other divas standing with her, Mickie James, Michelle McCool, Candice Michelle & Kelly Kelly. They are all smiles as they laugh and clap, crowding the new champion.

***POP***

Mickie James:
Congratulations, you so deserve it

Michelle McCool: Well done

Candice Michelle: Yeah, well done Vic

Their faces turn to a disapproving look when Beth Phoenix & Natalya walk up to them. They both look very angry while Victoria and her friends don’t look fazed.

***HEAT***

Victoria:
What the hell do you want?

Beth Phoenix: Since everyone else is congratulating you, we thought we’d come and do the same

The diva’s looks surprised

Beth Phoenix: You must feel great right now right? . . . But if I were you, I wouldn’t get used to holding that belt because you never know when you might lose it

Victoria stands up to them, not looking intimidated at all

Victoria: Now I’ve finally got it, it’s not going anywhere

Beth Phoenix: You might think so, but you won’t have a choice. . . That belt will be back where it belongs very soon

Beth stares right at Victoria for a couple of seconds before walking off with Natalya following. The rest of diva’s look disgusted for a moment with Victoria staring at Beth & Natalya as they walk away when Mickie then turns to Victoria

Mickie James: Don’t let those two get you down tonight, you need to come celebrate, and I think we have just the idea

Victoria: Okay, you’re on

Mickie James: Great. . . lets go show Orlando a great time!

***POP***

Mickie & Co turn around and laugh as Victoria looks down the hall for a second before turning round to join the others.


***CUT ACROSS THE BACK***


Josh Matthews is standing by the interview set, setting up

Josh Matthews: Does that sound okay? . . . Great

He looks to the side and MVP comes walking up towards him from the curtain area, holding the Money in the Bank briefcase with a big smile on his face

Josh Matthews: MVP, can I grab a few comments?

MVP smiles right at him and stops right next to Josh

MVP: Josh. . . you ask away

Josh Matthews: Well first off, congratulations on winning the Money in the Bank ladder match, you must. . .

MVP: . . . Josh, congratulations doesn’t even begin to cover what I’ve just achieved. There should be some kind of national holiday or somethin’, but thinkin’ ‘bout it, maybe that should be the day when I cash in this bad boy and step over every insignificant joker on the way to the top, cos Josh my man, that’s where I’m headed. . . Since day one I told everyone I’d get there, and you know what Josh? I’ve proved a lot of clueless idiots wrong, and now they have no choice but to stand up and take note of this ground breaking accomplishment. . . And now, the sky’s the limit. It doesn’t matter if it’s HBK, Edge, Randy Orton, John Cena, Kane, or even Michael Cole, they are all minor complications on my way to greatness and the world championship

MVP looks up and looks confused. The camera pans to show Armando Alejandro Estrada & an intense Umaga

MVP: What the hell do you want? . . . I’ll sign you a picture later, I’m tryin’ to talk here

Armando Estrada: We have some words for Joshua here, so if you don’t mind making yourself, how they say. . . scarce

MVP sn-iggers but laughs it off

MVP: You know what? . . . Take all the time you need, I’ve done what I came here to do, and now it’s time to live it up the only way a true MVP can

He laughs to himself as he walks off, slapping his hand against the briefcase while Estrada shakes his head. Josh quickly tries to get his attention

Josh Matthews: Armando, later on tonight, Umaga will face The Undertaker and try to end the legendary winning streak. . . What do you think his chances are of being the man to finally end the incredible run?

Armando Estrada: It’s Thee Undertaker who needs the chances Josh, because at this moment, he doesn’t have any. Umaga is like no one else the dead man has ever faced. He has bitten off more than he can chew with my Samoan Bulldozer, because Umaga will chew him up and spit him out like it was his breakfast. . . But you know what makes Umaga angry Josh? Everyone thinks it’s a formality that the dead man will turn up tonight and beat Umaga like everyone else he’s faced at Wrestlemania. . . Well let me tell you Undertaker, it’s not going to happen like that. It’s going to be a dark night, the darkest night of your life, and maybe even the last, because Umaga is going to tear you limb from limb and leave you in a big red pool of your own blood. . . And then, everybody will remember that Umaga was the man to finish Thee Undertaker

Estrada laughs for a couple of seconds, and then walks out of the shot, along with an intense Umaga.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


“Chavo Ardiente” plays as Chavo Guerrero makes his way down to the ring with a big smile on his face

Justin Roberts:
This bout is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP. . . Introducing first, the challengers. . . First, from El Paso, Texas, weighing in at 210 pounds. . . CHAVO GUERRERO!

***BIG POP***

Michael Cole: Coach, it’s time to find out whether Kenny Dykstra is as good as he thinks he is, and maybe this man can finally be the one to shut his mouth once and for all

The Coach: Michael, get real. Kenny Dykstra is a star in the making, and he’s beaten Chavo more times than I count, and he’ll do that again tonight

Michael Cole: But Coach, Kenny doesn’t have to lose this match to lose the title, and that gives Chavo a chance to win the Cruiserweight Championship right here right now

“Waiting in the Wings” hits as a serious looking Michael Shane walks down to the ring

Justin Roberts:
Secondly, from San Antonio, Texas, weighing in at 221 pounds. . . MICHAEL SHANE!

***HEAT***

Michael Cole: And Coach, on a night where Shawn Michaels attempts to leave Wrestlemania with gold around his waist, can his ungrateful cousin do the same?

The Coach: Michael, this kid has as much, if not more talent than Shawn Michaels

Michael Cole: Well I suppose that is a matter of opinion, but I do agree that he does have a lot of talent. . . The question is, is it enough to be victorious on his first Wrestlemania appearance?

“Flying High” plays & Matt Sydal walks out to the stage, looking very pumped up as he walks to both sides of the stage to acknowledge the fans

Justin Roberts:
And from St Louis, Missouri, weighing in at 183 pounds. . . MATT SYDAL!

***BIG POP***

Michael Cole: How great it would be Coach if this kid can mark his first Wrestlemania by winning the Cruiserweight Championship tonight?

The Coach: Well Michael, we don’t see eye to eye on a lot of things, but I have to admit that I like what I see when I watch Matt Sydal get in that ring. He’s like nothing else I’ve ever seen. . . He’s right in your face, and he does things that no one expects. . . I like this kid

Michael Cole: It appears that everyone else here in Orlando feels the exact same, and if there was a roof on this stadium, I think it would be blown off if he could win tonight

“Pure Control” plays through the speakers as a focused Kenny Dykstra makes his way down the ramp

Justin Roberts:
And their opponent. . . from Worcester, Massachusetts, weighing in at 225 pounds. . . he is the WWE Cruiserweight Champion. . . KENNY DYKSTRA!

*** TONS OF HEAT***

The Coach: Here he comes Michael, the Future Hall of Famer

Michael Cole: I think it’s safe to say that I’m not a fan of this arrogant young man, but there’s no denying he has a lot of potential. . . However Coach, I think tonight is going to be the first real test of this young man’s career. . . We’re going to find out just how good he is right now


***MATCH #4***



WWE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Chavo Guerrero vs. Matt Sydal
vs. Kenny Dykstra (c) vs. Michael Shane


Dykstra passes his championship belt to the referee and looks very confident as the bell then rings with all three men charging at him. They pound him against the ropes with shots to the body as Kenny tries to duck and cover his head. The defending champion then pushes Chavo away before slipping under the bottom rope to safety. Dykstra looks pissed as he stands on the outside, staring back in angrily. Sydal stands by the ropes and stares right back, along with Shane. Shane then steps back a couple of paces, unknown to Sydal as Shane then clubs him across the back, knocking Sydal down to his knees. Chavo is straight on Shane though as he spins him round and hits him with a European uppercut, knocking Shane’s head back. Chavo takes advantage by grabbing him by the wrist and whipping him in to the opposite set of ropes, and as Shane comes back, Chavo hits him with a hard kick to the gut.


Shane leans forward holding his stomach as Chavo turns to the side to run in to the ropes, and as he comes back, he drives his boot in to Shane’s head, knocking him down to the mat and getting a pop from the crowd. At the same time, Kenny leans inside to drag Sydal out and hits him with some hard right hands to the face, then scoops him up and slams him down to the floor. He quickly slips back in the ring and runs at Chavo, taking him down to the mat with a falling clothesline. Dykstra stands back up to drop his leg across the upper chest of Chavo. He races back up to his feet to hit Chavo with another leg drop before pulling him back up to his feet where he whips him in to the ropes, and as Chavo comes back, Kenny nails him with a standing dropkick. He smiles as he readjusts his position on the mat to go for a cover on Chavo with the ref making the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



As the champ stands back up with a smile on his face, Shane looks to be getting back up to his knees too. Dykstra reacts by running back in to the ropes, charging back and sending Shane back down to the mat with a bulldog. He stands back up and grins in to the crowd, acting very cocky and getting a negative reaction from the fans. As he turns back round, Chavo starts to get up, prompting Kenny to turn back in to the ropes, and as he runs at Chavo, the Mexican surprises him by nailing him with a ROLLING HEEL KICK. . . . . . That gets the crowd going, and as both men get back up to their, Sydal is getting back on to the apron.


And as soon as Chavo & Dykstra stand back up, Sydal holds on to the top rope and SPRINGBOARDS TO TAKE THEM BOTH DOWN WITH A DOUBLE DROPKICK. . . . . The fans like that, and show their appreciation with a pop for Matty Sydal. Both men fall to the deck with Sydal then getting back up to his feet and pulling Chavo’s body to lie next to Dykstra’s before jumping up in to the air and HITTING A STANDING MOONSAULT ON TO BOTH MEN. . . . . Sydal stands back up to another pop from the crowd, with Shane also getting back up. Shane walks over to him and grabs him by the head to take him down with a SNAP MARE DRIVER. . . . . Sydal goes for his first cover of the match as the ref counts the fall. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



Sydal takes it on the chin as Shane kicks out, then gets right back up to his feet, seeing Kenny sitting up. He runs in to the corner and climbs to the top rope with Kenny now getting to his knees. Sydal watches on with interest and then jumps down for a BULLDOG LEG DROP. . . . . Kenny takes a step back as Sydal hits the mat. Kenny then sees Chavo coming round and walks in to the same corner that Sydal just came out of. He climbs to the top rope, and as Chavo stands up fully and turns round to face him, Dykstra jumps in to the air and CONNECTS WITH A DIVING CLOTHESLINE. . . . . Kenny looks to go for a cover, but Sydal stands back up and pulls him back up to his feet. The challenger then tries for an irish whip, but Kenny reverses it. As Sydal hits the ropes, he holds on to them with Kenny already anticipating his return by jumping in to the air for a dropkick, only to fall down and hit the mat.


Sydal takes a short breather as Kenny stands back up, as does Michael Shane, standing close by behind Dykstra. Shane then charges out at Kenny, but the champ sidesteps as Sydal runs through in to Shane, who grabs Sydal around the chest and then TOSSES HIM TO THE SIDE WITH A BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . Shane and Kenny both get to their feet at the same time, and the champ tries to strike first with a right hand, but it gets blocked and Shane nails him with a hard kick to the gut. Kenny clutches his stomach and ducks his head down in pain with Shane acting quickly to pull Kenny’s under his arm and grab his leg before bringing him crashing down to the mat with A LEG HOOK DDT. . . . . Kenny’s head is driven in to the mat, and Shane looks to wrap it up quickly as he turns Kenny over and goes for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!



Chavo dives across on to Shane’s back to stop the count. He and Shane then slowly make their way back up to their feet with Shane swinging a wild right at Chavo, but the Mexican ducks it and whips Shane in to the ropes, planting him as he comes back with a TILT A WHIRL BACK BREAKER. . . . . Sydal gets back up as Chavo lands on his knees, and he doesn’t have time to react as Sydal steps back in to the ropes and then runs right at Chavo to nail him right in the face with a SEATED DROPKICK. . . . . Chavo falls back to the mat and Sydal crawls across to cover Shane instead. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


KICK OUT!



Sydal races back up to his feet once again and drags Shane up with him, whipping him in to the corner. He then runs in at him with Shane lifting his boot up in to Sydal’s face, sending him staggering out of the corner. Shane pulls himself up to the second rope, and as Sydal turns back round to face him, Shane jumps down at him, but Sydal kicks him in the gut and instantly grabs him around the chest to nail him with a CYCLORAMA (BELLY TO BELLY MOONSAULT SLAM). . . . . Sydal hurries as he hooks Shane’s legs and goes for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


NO!



Shane just gets his shoulder up, leaving Sydal a little shocked. He pulls himself back up to his knees and looks disappointed while Kenny makes his way back up to his feet, and Sydal sees it. He also gets back up as Dykstra then runs at him, but Sydal ducks his head as Kenny runs through and stops himself at the ropes. Sydal then runs at him, but Kenny lifts him over his shoulder and lands on his feet on the apron. Kenny turns round and ducks a right from Sydal, then leaps up and nails him with a DROPKICK, SENDING SYDAL OFF THE APRON DOWN TO THE FLOOR. . . . . Dykstra stands back up with a big smile on his face, and Chavo is also making his way back up behind him.


Kenny then turns round, still with the grin until he sees Chavo getting up. He runs at Guerrero, but the Mexican surprises him by connecting with a SPINNING HEAD SCISSORS TAKEDOWN. . . . . The crowd cheer that, and both men get back up fairly quickly with Chavo grabbing Kenny’s wrist and trying for an irish whip only for Dykstra to reverse it. And as Chavo comes back off the ropes, he slides through the champion’s legs with Dykstra quickly turning round as Chavo stands back up and plants him with A THUNDEROUS JUMPING TORNADO DDT. . . . . A big pop breaks out as Chavo rushes across the mat to go for a cover on Dykstra with the ref making the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . 3?


. . . . .


NO. . . . . SO CLOSE!!!



Chavo sits back up and looks slightly frustrated before shrugging it off and standing back up. He then reaches down and pulls Kenny back up, pulling his head under his arm and lifting him vertically up in to the air, then falling back for a suplex. Chavo keeps hold of the grip and swings his hips to stand back up and hit another suplex. Again he holds on to Kenny’s trunks and stands back up to complete a third suplex for THE THREE AMIGO’S. . . . . The crowd erupts with cheers as Chavo stands back up and walks in to the corner. As he climbs to the top rope, Sydal stands back up on the apron and walks over to Chavo, then pushes him off the top and down to the floor below.


Sydal then climbs up on to the top rope with Kenny lying down in front of him, then leaps up in to the Florida sky, looking to connect with a SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . Sydal comes down out of the air, but Dykstra rolls to the side, away from the corner. The defending champion slowly makes his way back up to a vertical base, as does Michael Shane. Dykstra turns round and sees Shane in front of him, with the two rivals then furiously throwing right hands at each other. The champ looks on top as he lands two in a row, but as he goes for a third, Shane blocks it and pulls him in for a NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


KICK OUT!



A frustrated Shane stands back up as Kenny rolls on to his side. Shane has a determined look on his face as he walks in to the corner and starts tuning up the band, getting a mixed reception from the crowd. Dykstra slowly makes his way back up to his feet, and Sydal does the same close by the opposite corner to Shane, who continues to stomp his foot aggressively in to the mat. He looks ready to explode as Kenny stands up and turns round, and that sets Shane racing out of the corner, looking for the SUPER KICK. . . . . BUT AS KENNY SIDESTEPS IT, SYDAL WALKS RIGHT IN TO IT. . . . . Sydal drops right down to the mat with Shane looking shocked, but Dykstra spins him right round, grabbing him by the head and planting him with a ROLLING CUTTER. . . . . Boos ring out as Kenny scurries across the mat to cover Shane with the ref counting the fall. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . . 3?


NO!



Somehow, Shane got his shoulder up, leaving Kenny absolutely stunned. He sits up and stares in horror at the referee while the crowd cheer, but he then sees Sydal laid out too and crawls across to try his luck with a cover on him. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


SHOULDER UP!



Sydal’s kick out leaves Kenny furious, but the hot headed champion stands back up and walks in to the corner, climbing to the top rope, but he doesn’t see Chavo standing back up behind him. The Mexican star climbs back up on to the apron and pushes Kenny down to the mat with the champ landing on his side. Chavo climbs back through the ropes as he sees Sydal squirming. He walks up to him and drags him back up to his feet, then stomps him hard in the gut before pulling him in to position for a BRAINBUSTER. . . . . Guerrero lifts him up in to the air, but before he can hit it, Sydal starts wriggling round and is able to escape down Chavo’s back. The shocked Chavo turns back round in to an explosive Sydal who sets the crowd off with a HURRICANRANA. . . . . The ref drops to his knees to make the count as Sydal holds on to Chavo’s legs for dear life. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


SO CLOSE!



Chavo kicks off with Sydal just rolling back. Both men make their way back up in quick time, and again it’s Sydal who takes control, connecting with a FEINT ENZIGURI IN TO A HEAD SCISSORS TAKE DOWN. . . . . The crowd cheer once again as the momentum takes Chavo rolling towards the ropes. Sydal stands back up and sees Dykstra getting back to his knees, so he walks across and tries to pull him back up, but the champ pushes him away. Sydal walks back over as Kenny stands up and delivers a hard kick to the gut. Kenny looks intense as hell as he grabs Sydal by the head, setting him up for a ROLLING CUTTER. . . . .


He stares in to the crowd for a couple of seconds as they boo him, giving Sydal the chance to push him back in to the ropes. And as Kenny comes back off the ropes, SYDAL NAILS HIM WITH ONE HELL OF AN ENZIGURI TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD. . . . . Dykstra falls in a heap, down to the mat as Sydal rushes back up to his feet and in to the corner, climbing to the top rope with Dykstra lying in front of him on the mat. The crowd are on their feet as SYDAL LEAPS UP IN TO THE AIR AND CONNECTS WITH THE SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . Huge cheers ring out as Sydal reaches to the side and hooks the champs’ leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . 3?


. . . . . CHAVO RUNS ACROSS THE MAT AND BREAKS IT UP WITH AN AXE HANDLE TO THE BACK OF SYDAL



Sydal rolls off Dykstra’s chest and next to the ropes with Chavo standing up and kicking him under the bottom rope to the outside. The Mexican Warrior then climbs up to the top rope with the crowd cheering again, just as Shane makes his way back up to his knees. Chavo points to the ceiling before JUMPING OFF THE TOP FOR THE FROG SPLASH. . . . . BUT KENNY GETS HIS KNEES UP. . . . . Chavo jumps up and down clutching his stomach, not falling to the mat as Shane stands up, NAILING CHAVO AS HE TURNS ROUND WITH A SUPER KICK. . . . . The crowd can’t believe it and boo as Shane drops to the mat and hooks both legs for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . .

. . . . . 3.


NEW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION!!!



WINNER: By pinfall, and new WWE Cruiserweight Champion, Michael Shane @ 13.52.


AFTERMATH: “Waiting in the Wings” hits and he stands up with a look of surprise on his face as the referee then collects the belt and passes it over to the new Cruiserweight Champion. He practically snatches it out of his hands and raises it in the air with a big smug grin on his face as the crowd boo the new champ. He walks over to the ropes and places his left foot on the bottom rope before standing up on it and lifting the belt high up in to the air. Shane then turns round laughing as he leaves the ring with Dykstra sitting up and looking confused, as does Sydal as he drags himself to his knees by the apron on the outside. The new champ turns back and poses with the belt before turning back to walk backstage.


Michael Cole: Wow, I didn’t see that coming Coach

The Coach: Neither did I, but that’s what’s great about matches like these Michael, you don’t see things coming. . . I didn’t expect Michael Shane to be walking out of here as the Cruiserweight Champion, but all that matters Michael is that he is


***VIDEO PROMO***

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2008 WWE HALL OF FAME




The show started with Todd Grisham thanking for everyone for coming and hoping that they were all going to enjoy Wrestlemania weekend. The first inductee was The Rock, inducted by his father Rocky Johnson. The Rock played down chants of “one more match” by saying it’s time for other superstars time to shine, but he gave the fans a little entertainment with some vintage Rocky catchphrases.

Next up came Harry Smith and his mother, Diana to induct “The British Bulldog” Davey Boy Smith. Harry said his father was his hero and he’s so proud that he has the chance to be doing what his dad loved. The Iron Sheik was out after the break to induct Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat. The Dragon was very thankful and said it was one of the greatest nights of his life.

Jerry Lawler made his way to the stage after the commercial to induct “The Macho Man” Randy Savage. Randy said that he’s had problems over the years with certain people and that it was a true honour to be inducted in to the Hall of Fame after enjoying a great career. Ted DiBiase Jr walked out to the stage to his dad’s legendary music to induct his father. He said that his dad was the true villain of the WWE and that it was a huge honour to be inducting his father, “The Million Dollar Man”. Ted Sr came out and hugged his son in an emotional exchange. He said that being inducted into the Hall of Fame was better than the World Championship before saying that he hopes some day he will be returning the favour and inducting his son in to the Hall of Fame.

Bret Hart came out after the break to induct his late brother, Owen. He said that Owen was one of the true greats in and out of the ring, calling him not just his brother, but his best friend. It went down very well with the fans in attendance. After the next break, Vince McMahon walked out to a very strong mixed reception and said he had the pleasure of inducting “Stonecold” Steve Austin. Vince said that working with Austin had been a very mixed experience but it was the defining moment in the history of the WWE. Austin walked out and hugged Vince before teasing a Stonecold Stunner. He said that he’s very grateful to be inducted in to the list of great names and that he is looking forward to watching Wrestlemania tomorrow night with a Steveweiser.

To finish the show, Arn Anderson inducted the man he called the greatest of all time, “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. Flair got a great reception and said that he honestly didn’t expect to be inducted this year, but he thanked everyone for a great honour before promising to give everyone one more Wrestlemania memory with Evolution tomorrow night. The rest of the inductees and their families came out to the stage with streamers and balloons coming down to end the show.



***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Todd Grisham is standing by

Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentleman, please welcome the WWE Champion, Randy Orton

Orton walks in to the shot, looking very serious indeed

***MAJOR HEAT***

Todd Grisham:
Randy, later on tonight you will be defending the WWE Championship against both John Cena & Kane. . . I have to ask you, how are you feeling right now?

Randy Orton: Todd. . . everyone including you wants me to say I’m nervous, I’m not feeling confident, but the simple face is that I am. . . I am because I’m the guy going in to tonight with the gold firmly strapped around my waist, and as I’ve said for the last six, seven weeks, or however long it’s been, I guarantee I will be the man walking out with it. . .

***HEAT***

Randy Orton:
. . . It’s funny we just saw the Hall of Fame highlights Todd, because tonight will be my crowning glory, the night that will go down in memory as the moment Randy Orton beat two of the most dominant superstars of his time and walked out of Wrestlemania, still the WWE champion. . .

***HEAT***

Randy Orton:
. . . It will the landmark performance, the defining chapter of the legacy I will leave behind. . . but the best thing is Todd, this legacy hasn’t even finished, hell it’s not even started. I’ve had people doubt me since day one, but for the last six months, I’ve single handedly carried Raw and this title to new heights, heights not reached by so called legends and now Hall of Famers. . . Let me tell you something Todd, I’m not going to earn my Hall of Fame place by drinking beer, driving beer trucks, raising my eyebrow and making goofy catchphrases, I’m gonna do it the way I was brought up to, by a legitimate Hall of Famer, my father. . . “Cowboy” Bob Orton. . . Tonight I’m gonna go down to that ring and prove to everyone that I am the real deal, not some beer swilling idiot or failed movie star, I am the Legend Killer and the greatest superstar ever to have graced this ring because it is my destiny, and the best thing is no one, and I mean no one can stop me

***HEAT***

Orton walks out of the shot looking very serious and confident


***VIDEO RECAP***

  • Back to the Survivor Series & Jeff Hardy retaining the Intercontinental Championship in a elimination match, only for CM Punk to enter the ring and turn on his partner, hitting the GTS
  • The next night on Raw and CM Punk bringing up Jeff’s history for illegal substances
  • Jeff meeting Sunny backstage and flirting at the Raw anniversary show
  • Punk jumping Jeff in the parking lot after Raw, putting him on the shelf for a couple of weeks
  • Punk criticising a father and his son on the front row at Raw for being Jeff fans. Sunny coming to Jeff’s aid and defending him
  • The Royal Rumble, and Sunny screwing Jeff over, hitting him with the belt to give Punk the win and the title
  • Jeff returning to Raw after several weeks out and attacking Punk backstage in a set up by Eric Bischoff
  • A week later, Bischoff telling Punk he would be defending the Intercontinental Championship in an I Quit match at Wrestlemania against Jeff
  • Punk luring Jeff out in to the parking lot, setting him up for Colt Cabana to make his debut by helping Punk attack Jeff
  • Last week on Raw and Punk running down Jeff, only for Jeff to come down and take him out with the Twist of Fate

***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


Lilian Garcia: This next contest is the I Quit match for the INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP. . .

***MASSIVE POP***

“This Fire Burns” blasts out as a serious looking CM Punk walks out to the stage

Lilian Garcia:
. . . Introducing first, from Chicago, Illinois, weighing in at 221 pounds. . . he is the WWE Intercontinental Champion. . . CM PUNK!

***MAJOR HEAT***

Jim Ross: King, I don’t know how this man can look himself in a mirror at night after what he’s put Jeff Hardy through over the last few months. I just hope that there is some level of justice here tonight

Jerry Lawler: Come on now JR, CM Punk has crossed the lines at time. . .

Jim Ross: . . . You think?

Jerry Lawler: Are you going to let me finish this time JR?! . . . Yes he’s crossed the line at times, but he’s always told the truth about Jeff and his past

Jim Ross: There’s a fine line in this business, and there was no need for him to bring things up from Jeff’s past, but it’s not just that King. He’s lured Jeff in to traps and abused paying fans who come to do nothing more than to watch the show. . . For me that is unforgivable

“No More Words” plays with Jeff Hardy walking out to the stage and setting his pyro off before making his way down to the ring, staring intensely at CM Punk

Lilian Garcia:
And his opponent. . . the challenger, from Cameron, North Carolina, weighing in at 225 pounds. . . JEFF HARDY!

***HUGE POP***

Jerry Lawler: Well maybe while you’re praying for revenge, maybe Jeff can get some of his own

Jim Ross: God knows he deserves it after everything he’s been put through. . . But you know though King, Jeff has impressed me with the way he has stood up to Punk, none more so than last Monday night when he confronted him and showed him that he is in for one hell of a fight right here tonight

Jerry Lawler: Oh it’s going to be a fight JR, trust me

Jim Ross: This won’t be for the feint of heart folks, I suggest looking away if you’re the slightest bit squeamish, because this isn’t going to be pretty


***MATCH #5***



WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP
I QUIT MATCH
Jeff Hardy vs. CM Punk (c)


Both men stand in their corners with Jeff looking very aggressively towards Punk. The cocky champion then steps out of his corner and turns to the side with a smug look on his face as he turns to the crowd, but that gives Jeff the chance to run at him and tackle him. Punk falls back to the mat with Jeff on top of him and driving his fist right in to Punk’s forehead several times. Jeff gets off of Punk and the champ also gets back up quickly, but Jeff continues the assault by nailing him with a couple of right hands, knocking him back in to the corner against the pads. The Rainbow Haired Warrior doesn’t stop the attack either as he pounds Punk with right hands and vicious kicks to the stomach, one after another with Punk slumping to the mat.


Jeff stomps on the chest of Punk before pulling him back up to his feet and whipping him in to the opposite corner. Punk hits the pads hard as Jeff the runs in at him and connects with a DIVING LEG LARIAT. . . . . Punk is stunned and can’t defend himself as he slumps down to the mat, sitting against the pads as Jeff the grabs hold of the top rope and uses it to elevate himself and SMASH PUNK IN THE FACE WITH A CORNER AIDED DROPKICK. . . . . Jeff’s boots are driven right in to Punk’s face, who just slumps back even further in to the pads. The fans cheer as Jeff stands back up, pulls his shirt off and throws it in to the crowd. Jeff then turns his attention back to Punk and pulls him up and out of the corner, then whips him towards the ropes, but Punk holds on to the top rope.


Jeff doesn’t even have to think about it as he runs right at him, but Punk lifts his knee up in to Jeff’s face with Jeff then staggering away from the ropes, giving Punk some recovery time. Punk then walks out as Jeff turns round and starts unloading with some vicious stiff kicks to the ribcage and stomach of his bitter rival. With Jeff holding his stomach in pain, Punk drags Jeff by the head and places it between his legs before grabbing his both arms to lift him up in to the air and bring him back down with a bang with a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK BACK BREAKER. . . . . Punk’s knees drive their way in to Jeff’s back as the former Intercontinental Champion then falls to the deck and looks in some pain as Punk sits back up and grabs Jeff by the head to level him with a series of his own right hands to the skull.


Punk then stands back up with a very smug look on his face, getting booed by the Orlando fans, but it just spurs the champ on even more. He reaches down and pulls Jeff back up by his head, and holds on to the head as he then drives his knee in to Jeff’s face a couple of times, then lets go of his head to whip him in to the ropes. As Jeff hits the ropes and starts to make his way back over, Punk races at him and NAILS HIM WITH A CHARGING HIGH KNEE STRIKE. . . . . Punk smirks as he sees Jeff rolling around on the mat, and the champ coolly walks over to collect a microphone. He then walks back over to Jeff and tells him to do the smart thing before things get a whole lot worse, telling him he’s not even started yet, but as he puts the microphone to Jeff’s mouth, the challenger tells him there’s no chance.


Punk takes it quite well and tells Jeff to remember that he was warned, then drops the mic and pulls Jeff back up to his feet. But as Jeff gets to his knees, he reaches up and punches Punk in the stomach, and again. Punk drops his head as Jeff then grabs the microphone from by his side, stands up and smashes it in to Punk’s head to a big pop from the sell-out crowd. Punk drops to his knees and it looks like the lights are nearly out, but Jeff doesn’t waste a second as he pulls Punk back up to his feet, stomps him in the chest and then pulls his head in to position for a suplex. Jeff then lifts Punk up in to the sky, but instead of falling back, he drops Punk forward and sits down himself for a SIT DOWN FRONT SUPLEX. . . . .


That gets a pop, and as Jeff stands back up, he runs to the side and in to the ropes, and as he comes back, he HITS PUNK RIGHT IN THE SIDE WITH A HORIZONTAL BASEBALL SLIDE. . . . . Punk rolls on to his back and winces in pain as Jeff stands back up and then walks over to pick up the microphone. He says that Punk doesn’t look so cocky right now and that maybe he knows now he’s in a fight. He bends down to Punk’s face and asks him if he’s going to give it up, but Punk tells Jeff to go to the back and find something to smoke. Jeff loses it and drops the microphone before dragging Punk back up to his feet and then turns back to run in to the ropes, but as he comes back, Punk jumps up and connects with a SPINNING WHEEL KICK. . . . .


Punk remains on the mat with Jeff as he feels the effects of the match so far, but it doesn’t take him too long before both men make their way back up to their feet. Punk aims to strike first, swinging his boot up in to the air towards Jeff’s head, but Hardy ducks it and runs in to the corner with Punk turning round and following as Jeff runs up the ropes and comes down with THE WHISPER IN THE WIND. . . . . The crowd enjoy that, and as Jeff stands back up, he sees Punk also getting back up. He urges Jeff to get up, and as soon as Punk stands up, Jeff kicks him in the chest, grabs him by the head and plants him with A SIT OUT JAWBREAKER. . . . . A big pop breaks out from the crowd as Jeff takes the hurting to his bitter enemy.


The Charismatic Enigma then stands back up and walks over to the ropes, then climbs through them to jump down to the floor below. He reaches under the apron and pulls out a chair, then tosses it over the top rope and in to the ring, but he’s not done as he goes back under the ring and drags out a ladder to a massive pop from the crowd. Jeff slides his favourite toy in to the ring and climbs back in himself, picking up the ladder and stands it up in the corner as Punk gets up to his knees. With the ladder now set up, Jeff turns round and walks over to Punk, pulls him up from his knees and tries to whip him in to the corner, but Punk reverses it, AND JEFF IS SENT CRASHING IN TO THE LADDER. . . . .


Jeff’s face crashes into the ladder as Punk drops back to his knees for a couple of seconds with Jeff falling backwards to the mat. Punk stands back up and walks on to the corner, grabs the ladder and brings it crashing down on Jeff with it falling right across his body, from head to toe. Punk grins sadistically for a split second before turning back in to the corner and using the ropes to help him HIT A SPLIT LEG MOONSAULT ON TO JEFF AND THE LADDER. . . . . Both men roll around on the mat as Punk holds his chest while Jeff pushes the ladder off his chest and winces in pain. Both men remain down for a while, but it’s Punk who makes his way back up and sees the chair Jeff threw in. He bends down and picks it up, but he then sees the ladder lying on the mat, and tosses the chair back to the outside.


He then picks up the ladder as Jeff makes his way back up to his knees, and as he is able to stand up, Punk is lying in wait, and as Jeff turns round, PUNK SMASHES THE LADDER RIGHT IN TO JEFF’S FACE. . . . . Jeff just falls in a heap to the mat as the crowd boo Punk and show their concern for Jeff with the camera zooming in on them. Punk drops the ladder to the mat, now looking really smug as he raises his arms in to the air, getting even more heat from the fans. He then drops them back down and bends down to pull Jeff back up to his feet, and Jeff looks like he can’t support himself as Punk then lifts him up on to his shoulders and BRINGS JEFF’S HEAD CRASHING DOWN ON TO HIS KNEE FOR THE GTS. . . . . IT’S GOT TO BE OVER. . . . .


Boos ring out as a smug Punk gestures that it’s all done as he asks for the microphone, and the referee passes it to him. He drops to his knees and tells Jeff to put all his fans out of their misery and do the right thing in quitting before things get ten times worse and he beats him like the addict that he is. Boos ring out as Punk puts the microphone to Jeff’s mouth, but all we can hear is heavy breathing. Punk tells Jeff he’ll have to be clearer and asks him to say it again, but Jeff slurs the words “Go to hell”. Punk just grins and says “fine” as he calmly gives the microphone back to the referee, then reaches down and pulls Jeff back up to his feet. Jeff looks dead on his feet again as Punk then lifts him back on to his shoulders for another GTS. . . . .


Punk looks real confident as he holds Jeff up for a couple of seconds, but Hardy fights it, leaving Punk stunned as he then finds his way down Punk’s back. The shocked champion turns round to face Jeff, who nails him with a LEG FEED SPINNING MULE KICK. . . . . A huge pop rings out as both men slowly make their way back up to their feet. Punk swings a right at Jeff, but he ducks underneath it, and as Punk turns round, Jeff kicks him in the gut, pulls Punk’s head next to his arm and plants him with A SNAP DDT. . . . . Another big pop breaks out as Punk’s head is driven in to the canvas, but Jeff stays down for several seconds too as he recovers from the ladder shot and GTS.


Jeff makes his way back up to his feet, still looking sore as Punk also starts to make progress, crawling up on to his knees as Jeff then lies in wait, urging him back up. Jeff lifts both his hands in the air, reminiscent of his brother as Punk then stands up and turns round in to a kick to the gut with Jeff then pulling him in to place for THE TWIST OF FATE. . . . . The fans go crazy as Jeff shouts out, but Punk breaks their hearts, as well as Jeff’s as he pulls his head back and pushes Jeff in to the ropes, and as Jeff is about to bounce back off the ropes, Punk runs right at him and NAILS HIM IN THE SIDE OF THE HEAD WITH AN ENZIGURI. . . . . Jeff just falls through the ropes to the floor below as Punk stands back up by the ropes with a big smile on his face with the crowd booing him.


As Jeff starts to make his way back up, Punk turns back and runs the ropes, races back and fails to see Jeff picking up the steel chair Punk threw out earlier. As Punk then DIVES THROUGH THE ROPES AT HIM, JEFF SMASHES THE CHAIR RIGHT IN TO THE SKULL OF THE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION. . . . . The crowd love it and cheer like crazy as Jeff lets go of the chair and takes a couple of seconds to steady himself while Punk just lies in a heap on the mat, next to the chair with an imprint of his head on it. Jeff shakes off the cobwebs and walks back to the apron and asks for the referee to give him the microphone, which he does. Jeff then walks back to Punk and crouches down, then yells at him to quit and end it now before he makes him do something he will regret.


He puts the microphone next to Punk’s mouth, but there’s no response, Punk looks out of it from the chair shot. Jeff pulls him back up to his feet and drops the mic to floor at the same time, then whips Punk right in to the steel ringpost, face first. Punk slumps down the post with his face resting against it as Jeff looks to the side and sees the steel chair. He has a good look at it for a couple of seconds before picking it up and walking over to the post where HE SMASHES IT AGAINST THE BACK OF PUNK’S HEAD WITH PUNK’S FACE BEING CRUSHED IN TO THE RING POST. . . . . The fans go crazy yet again as Punk slumps down it and lies motionless on the arena floor as Jeff looks totally taken over by the devil.


The challenger lets go of the chair and walks back over to collect the microphone, then strolls back across next to Punk’s fallen body. He crouches down and tells Punk that he drove him to this and that there’s more to come if he doesn’t quit right now. Jeff puts the mic right next to Punk’s mouth, but he’s still not come round and can’t say a damn word. Jeff looks frustrated, but there’s nothing he can do as we see that Punk is now busted open from his forehead. Hardy then seems to lose his rag and lets go of the microphone and drags a deadweight Punk up to his feet and grabs him around the back of the neck and the top of his trunks to toss him right in to the barricade, head first.


Punk is taking one hell of a battering now from Jeff as he walks across and starts stomping uncontrollably on the back of Punk’s head, but the referee doesn’t like the look of it and he climbs through the ropes to the outside and steps in between of Jeff and Punk’s body. He orders Jeff to step back, which he reluctantly does as the ref drops to his knees and tries to talk him, asking Punk if he can hear him, and eventually Punk is able to show some movement, lifting his head up off the floor. The ref looks relieved and stands back up, as Punk too starts to try and sit up. The ref talks to Jeff for a few seconds before The Rainbow Haired Warrior then walks back over to Punk, but as he reaches down to pull him up, Punk beats him the chase by reaching forward and dragging Jeff back and in to the barricade, hitting it head first.


Jeff falls to the floor as Punk sits up with blood pouring from his head and starts to crawl towards the apron. He puts his head under it and he disappears for a couple of seconds before he remerges with a fire extinguisher in his hands. He stands up with boos ringing out as he then slowly walks towards Jeff as he gets to his knees, and as Punk raises the fire extinguisher above his head to bring it crashing down, Jeff low blows him. Punk drops to his knees and then down to the floor as he drops the extinguisher down too with the crowd cheering like mad. Jeff then grabs hold of the extinguisher as he slowly stands back up, and as Punk makes his way back on to his knees, JEFF AIMS THE HOSE AT HIM AND LETS RIP WITH PUNK GETTING BLASTED RIGHT IN THE FACE. . . . .


Big cheers ring out as Punk rolls around the floor with Jeff seeming to enjoy it. He then drops the extinguisher to the floor, walks round to pick up the microphone and places it back on the apron. Jeff then turns his attention back to his opponent as he makes his way back over to the battered Punk and pulls him back up to his feet, drags him to the apron and rolls him back in under the bottom rope. Jeff then turns back and picks up the steel chair with Punk’s head imprinted on it and slides back in the ring with it firmly in hand. Punk sits up and drags himself back with Jeff walking up to him, holding the chair with dangerous intent. Jeff walks over with evil intentions as Punk looks very worried, pulling himself back, but Jeff catches him up and stands right in front of Punk, raising the chair above his head, but Punk reaches up and punches Jeff in the chest.


Punk then stands up and kicks Jeff in the chest with a real stiff shot, then steals the chair away from him and SMASHES HIM RIGHT IN THE SKULL. . . . . Jeff just plummets to the mat, falling to the side and then on to his back as Punk looks down at him with a very serious look on his face. He then raises the chair up in the air and brings it crashing down on the back of Jeff Hardy, but he doesn’t stop there. Punk seems to lose it as he unloads with another shot to the back, and another, then two more. The fans boo as Jeff seems motionless while Punk just drops the chair by Jeff’s head, then kneels down and places the chair under Jeff’s head. He stands back up and stares in to the crowd before looking down and staring at Jeff for a couple of seconds before stamping on Jeff’s head, banging it in to the chair.


The fans look in shock, but Punk doesn’t bat an eyelid as he reaches down and drags Jeff back up to his feet, but as he lets go of him, Jeff just falls back down to the mat. Punk looks a little shocked, as does the referee, but Punk tries once again as he pulls Jeff up to his feet, and as he lets go again, Jeff just drops to the mat once again, he’s helpless. Punk just laughs this time, and he reaches down once again, but the referee walks up to him to try and get him away from Jeff, but Punk just pushes him to the side. He drags Jeff back up and lifts him on to his shoulders and then BRINGS JEFF’S HEAD DOWN ON TO HIS KNEE FOR THE GTS. . . . . The fans boo as Jeff lies helplessly on the mat while Punk just smirks. The referee rushes back across the mat and drops down to check on Jeff. He looks worried and calls for the bell, then EMT’s. . . . . DING. . . DING. . . DING.


WINNER: By stoppage, and still WWE Intercontinental Champion, CM Punk @ 16.37.


AFTERMATH: Punk looks stunned at the referee as he calls for the EMT’s to come down when “This Fire Burns” hits. The EMT’s arrive quickly and the referee stands up to keep Punk away from Jeff. Punk looks a little disappointed, but then turns back to look at Jeff receiving treatment, then smiles before leaving the ring and collecting his title belt to heat from the crowd. He walks back up the ramp with a big smile on his face as he stares down at the EMT’s trying to help a still motionless Jeff Hardy.


Jerry Lawler: That really wasn’t pretty was it JR?

Jim Ross: It certainly wasn’t, I just hope that Jeff is going to be okay. It just sickens me that CM Punk looks to be enjoying what he’s just done. . . He sure is one despicable individual


***CUT BACKSTAGE***


Eric Bischoff is walking down the corridor and looking at the doors that he passes. He comes to one and stops, then turns round to face it with the name “The McMahon’s” on it. He grabs the handle and opens the door, walking in as Vince, Shane & JBL are pacing around the room in their ring gear.

Vince McMahon: You ever heard of knocking Eric?

Eric Bischoff: Let’s cut right to the chase. This is a busy night and I heard you wanted to see me, so let’s get this wrapped up quick. . . What do you want?

Vince McMahon: There’s no need for hostility Eric, we’ve put all that behind us. . . well I have

Eric Bischoff: Is there a point to this?

Vince McMahon: Look Eric, we were just concerned about you and wanted to see how you were doing since. . . well you know. . . Triple H made a mess of your eye there

Eric Bischoff: I should have known. . . Vince, let me tell you straight. . . I’m not getting drawn in to this. If you think you can manipulate me in to thinking Triple H hit me intentionally, you’re wasting your time

Bischoff goes to turn round, but Vince grabs his arm and pulls him back. Bischoff doesn’t seem to appreciate it as he gives Vince the evils

Vince McMahon: I’m sorry. . . But Eric, do you seriously think for one minute what Triple H did was an accident? I know him better than anyone, he’s devious. . . Look what he did to me with Hornswoggle and John here. He kept the fact he was my son from me for his own sick personal gain. . . I seriously advise you not to trust him

Eric Bischoff: And you had to tell me this now? . . . I wonder why that is. . . Not that it’s any of your business, but I spoke to Triple H earlier, and yes I believe it was an accident, and if you’ve got a problem with that, then that’s your concern, not mine. . . Now if you don’t mind, I’ve got. . .

JBL walks over to the door and stands in front of it

JBL: Need I remind you Eric, six days ago your head was scrambled like an Orlando resident attempting to solve a word jumble. . . And Eric, let me ask you who was responsible for that? . . . Whose selfish and thoughtless actions made you resemble an uneducated low life like the people you’ve got filling those seats out there tonight? . . . That’s right, it’s the man who deprived me of getting to know my biological father a whole lot sooner. . . Well let me. . .

Shane walks over to them

Shane McMahon: . . . John, save some of that for the match

JBL looks Bischoff in the eyes for a couple of seconds before walking away with Bischoff looking very pissed

Eric Bischoff: Look. . .

Shane blocks the door off and looks back at JBL as he talks

Shane McMahon: Let’s give Eric some credit, he doesn’t need reminding of the fact that the selfish, egotistical, sell his own grandmother for his own benefit, Triple H, a man he has history with, apparently hit him with a steel chair for no reason. . .

Shane then turns his head to face Bischoff

Shane McMahon: That’s if it was for no reason Eric

Bischoff looks really angry as The McMahon’s all look towards him as he turns back and faces the room

Eric Bischoff: What do you take me for? . . . What happened with Triple H is for me to deal with, not you, and I suggest that you deal with the fact that you have to face Evolution tonight instead of trying to play stupid mind games

Bischoff walks past Shane and to the door, then looks back as he grabs the handle

Eric Bischoff: I’ve said all I have to so I bid you good night. . . Oh and good luck in your match. . . You might just need it

Vince & JBL look pissed, but Shane takes it on the chin

Shane McMahon: I told you it wouldn’t work

Vince McMahon: SHUT UPPPPP!

Shane takes his dad’s advice and sits back down as they all look glum as the camera fades out.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


Justin Roberts: This next contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WWE AND WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS. . .

***POP***

Justin Roberts: In this contest, the winning team will win the titles from the brand of the opponent that they defeat. . . However if the either of the two champions defeat the non champions from their own brand, they will only retain their tag team titles

“Ain’t No Make Believe” plays as John Morrison & The Miz make their way out to the stage, posing and looking very confident

Justin Roberts: . . . Introducing first, at a combined weight of 450 pounds. . . representing Raw, the team of, JOHN MORRISON AND THE MIZ!

***HEAT***

Michael Cole: How glad are you to have these two guys on Raw?

Jim Ross: Oh it’s a real pleasure!

The Coach: What is it with all of you? Can’t you recognise the unbelievable talent these guys have? . . . It’s going to be a crying shame when this very talented team win tonight and bring gold back to Smackdown where they’ll be appreciated

Jim Ross: Well Coach, you bring up a good point. They might end up back on Smackdown if they beat either The UK Pack or The Pitbulls, but they have to win the match first

The Coach: Oh they will JR, trust me

“Kash Money” blasts out as the intense duo of Jamie Noble & Kid Kash walk down to the ring

Justin Roberts:
At a combined weight of 404 pounds. . . representing Smackdown, Kid Kash and Jamie Noble. . . THE PITBULLS!

***HEAT***

Jerry Lawler: Well what about these guys? They’re as tough as two. . . well Pitbulls!

The Coach: Real funny King, why don’t you go stand outside the Burger King round the corner while we call this match?

Jerry Lawler: I’m sorry Coach, do you want me to pull those undies of yours out of a twist?!

Jim Ross: Gentleman, please, we’re about to see two titles defended any moment, can you forget about undies for just a little while longer?

Jerry Lawler: Alright JR

The Coach: Whatever

“Britannia” hits with Paul Burchill & Harry Smith walking out in to the open air stadium looking pretty relaxed

Justin Roberts:
And from the United Kingdom, at a combined weight of 507 pounds. . . representing Smackdown, they are the WWE Tag Team Champions. . . Harry Smith and Paul Burchill. . . THE UK PACK!

***POP***

Jim Ross: I have to say that I have been very impressed by the impact these two young English superstars have had on Smackdown since becoming the tag team champions. . . They’re big, they’re strong, they’re quick. . . they have everything you need to be successful here in the WWE. . . I really like their chances tonight

Michael Cole: As do I JR, they are by far the biggest and strongest team in this match, and I wouldn’t be at all surprised if they emerge from this match with both sets of titles

Jerry Lawler: Woah, hold your horses Michael, the match hasn’t even started yet. . .

“Rocker” blasts out as Paul London & Brian Kendrick race down to the ring

Justin Roberts: And finally, at a combined weight of 389 pounds. . . representing Raw, they are the World Tag Team Champions. . . BRIAN KENDRICK AND PAUL LONDON!

***POP***

Jerry Lawler: Don’t write these guys out Cole, you should know all too well what they can do

Michael Cole: Oh absolutely King, I’ve had the privilege of calling a lot of their matches in the past on Smackdown, and I believe that they have a great chance of leaving here tonight victorious, but the one time they went up against The UK Pack on Raw a couple of weeks back. . . it was Smackdown’s champions that won the match, and that could quite easily happen again tonight

Jim Ross: Well that’s what we’re about to find out gentleman


***MATCH #6***



WWE & WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
Paul London & Brian Kendrick (c) vs. John Morrison & The Miz
vs. The UK Pack (c) vs. The Pitbulls


John Morrison enters the ring, volunteering himself to start the match, and Brian Kendrick is quick to take his place as the other legal man while the others climb through the ropes to the apron. The bell rings and Kendrick doesn’t waste a second as he runs at Morrison, then throws a succession of right hands at him, knocking him back in to the corner and then whipping him in to the opposite corner. He doesn’t wait either as he charges right in at Morrison and hits a back flip dropkick, getting a pop from the crowd. Kendrick’s flip takes him out of the corner, and Morrison follows him in to a snap mare from Kendrick, who then takes a big swipe at the spine of Morrison with the thud ringing out around ringside. Morrison rolls on to his side as Kendrick turns back in to the ropes, runs back and SLIDE KICKS MORRISON IN THE FACE. . . . . Kendrick readjusts his position and grabs Morrison’s legs for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Morrison kicks out and Kendrick gets right back up to continue the pressure, then reaches down and drags him back up to his feet. He then turns back in to the ropes again, but as he runs back, Morrison lifts and pushes Kendrick up in to the air, then watches as Kendrick falls out of sky and down to the mat, flat on his face. Morrison reaches down and turns Kendrick on to his side, then drives his knee in to his chest, and then again. Kendrick looks to be suffering as Morrison then pulls him back up to his feet to whip him in to the corner, right by The Miz. The Shaman of Sexy then runs in at Kendrick and nails him with a STEP UP ENZIGURI. . . . . Kendrick just falls flat to the mat with Morrison grinning as he makes the tag to his partner, with The Miz rushing in through the ropes and turning Kendrick over to go for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Kendrick just lifts his shoulder up as a focused looking Miz picks himself back up and stomps on the chest of Kendrick before kneeling down and dragging him back up to his feet. Kendrick looks groggy as Miz laughs at him for a couple of seconds before going for a DISCUS PUNCH. . . . . The time wasting haunts The Miz as Kendrick ducks the right hand and then lifts his head back up to jump up and shock him with a HURRICANRANA TAKEDOWN. . . . . The crowd cheer as both men fall to the mat, but Kendrick scurries across the mat to make the tag to Harry Smith as Miz stands back up. Smith steps through the ropes and charges at Miz, knocking him down with a clothesline, but The Miz gets right back up, only for Smith to slam him down with a hard scoop slam.


Miz arches his back as he hits the mat, but Smith isn’t in forgiving mood as he turns him on to his back and applies a HIGH ANGLE BOSTON CRAB. . . . . The Miz screams out in agony as Smith puts the pressure on The Chick Magnet, trying to get him to tap out as he wrenches away at him. The Miz looks to be going nowhere as we see just how determined Smith is by the look on his face, desperately trying to end it by making The Miz to tap, but the reality star starts to crawl towards the ropes, getting closer, but not within touching distance as Morrison panics on the apron.


He comes to the rescue, rushing in and kicking smith in the side of the head. The referee is furious and yells at Morrison to get back on the apron, which he does. The Miz looks to be relieved that the hold is broken as he crawls towards the ropes, using them to help himself up as Smith makes his way back up to his knees. Just as The Miz is able to get back up to his feet, Smith looks close to getting up too, frustrating The Miz, who runs at Smith, but the Brit reacts quickly by slamming him down to the mat with a SPINNING POWERSLAM. . . . . Smith holds on to Miz’s legs as he tries for a cover with the ref counting the fall. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



The Miz kicks out and Smith stands back up straight away, but instead of picking The Miz back up, he walks in to his corner and makes the tag to Paul Burchill. The other half of the WWE Tag Team Champions climbs through the ropes and walks over to The Miz, pulls him up to his feet and whips him in to the ropes. As The Miz bounces back off the ropes, Burchill grabs him around the upper chest and tosses him behind with an OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . Morrison panics and puts one leg through the ropes when Burchill spots him, stopping Morrison from entering the ring. Burchill stares at him as he stands up, then turns his attention back to The Miz, pulling him up from his knees and sending him right back down again as he drives him down to the mat with a FALLING NECKBREAKER. . . . . Burchill turns himself round on the mat as he goes for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



The Miz saves himself by lifting his shoulder of the canvas, and Burchill gets right back up and steps back in to the ropes with Paul London slapping his back for a tag. Burchill turns round in shock as London climbs to the top rope with the ref then telling Burchill to leave the ring. As Burchill then walks back in to his corner, London stands up on the top rope, only for Kid Kash to walk round the apron to distract him. Morrison sees an opportunity as he walks round the other side of the apron and pushes London down to the mat. The Miz doesn’t seem to know where he is as he crawls across the mat with Kash screaming out for a tag, and he gets it. He races in to the ring and kicks London square in the head.


He then reaches down and pulls London up to his knees, then runs past him in to the ropes as London stands up with KASH SPRING BOARDING TO HIT LONDON WITH A FRONT FLIP DROPKICK TO THE BACK. . . . . London is sent back to the mat as The Miz stands up and walks over to his own corner while Kash gets back up to his feet. He walks round to London’s feet and grabs his legs to lock in THE KASH ON DELIVERY (HIGH ANGLE BOSTON CRAB). . . . . London screams out in pain as Kash pulls hard on his leg, putting the pressure on London’s lower back, right in the middle of the ring with nowhere to go.


The agony is clear on the face of Paul London, who sees Kendrick encouraging from the apron, as well as hearing the fans clapping in support. Slowly London is able to drag himself across the mat, causing Kash to panic as the fans get louder in their support, and it seems to help London as a pissed Kid Kash feels his grip lessening as London gets closer to the ropes, dragging himself to the ropes and reaching out to grab the bottom rope to a massive pop from the crowd. The referee tells Kash to let the hold go, but he ignores him until the ref counts to four with Kash then letting go of London. The ref keeps Kash away from London as he slowly uses the ropes to help him make his way back up to his feet, but Kash then shoves the referee to the side as he runs right at London.


The high flyer kicks him in the gut with Kash then walking away from the ropes holding his chest. London takes a couple of seconds to recover before walking towards Kash who turns round and kicks London in the chest. He then grabs London by the head and pulls him in to position for a suplex before grabbing his foot too with his right hand. He stares in to the crowd for a second before lifting London vertically up in to the air and bringing him crashing down to earth with THE MONEY ROLL (LEG HOOK BRAINBUSTER). . . . . London doesn’t look to be moving as Kash holds on and tries to wrap the match up with the referee dropping to his knees and making the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



London kicks out and Kash can’t believe it as he sits up and stares in shock at the referee. Kash then turns back and stares at Noble, he too can’t believe it. Kash bangs his hands in to the mat and has a little strop for several seconds before standing back up to his feet. He then crouches back down and pulls London up too, hooking both of his arms for a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK SUPLEX. . . . . Kash takes his time again, trying to wind up the crowd, but it backfires as London pulls his arms free and sweeps Kash’s legs from under him at the same time. London lifts Kash’s legs up and then FLIPS FORWARD, HOLDING ON FOR A COVER. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Kick out from Kash as both men make their way back up to their feet with Kash grabbing London’s arm and trying for an irish whip. London reverses it, and as Kash comes back off the ropes, London nails him with a DROPSAULT. . . . . London races back up to his feet and LEAPS UP IN TO THE AIR FOR A STANDING SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . BUT NO. . . . . KASH LIFTS HIS KNEES UP IN TO LONDON’S STOMACH. . . . . London rolls down The Notorious K.I.D’s legs and down to the mat with both men crawling towards their respective corners as the crowd try and will London on. They both get close, and as Kash makes the tag to Jamie Noble, London also makes the tag to his partner, Brian Kendrick.

A big pop breaks out as Kendrick races in to the ring, as does Noble with both men charging at each other. Kendrick ducks under Noble’s outstretched arm and runs through in to the ropes, HITTING A SPRINGBOARD BACK ELBOW TO NOBLE AS HE TURNS ROUND. . . . . Cheers break out again as both men get back up, but it’s Kendrick who strikes first with a kick to the gut, and then grabs Noble by the head, pulling it down to his side. He then runs in to the corner and up the ropes to CONNECT WITH THE SLICED BREAD #2. . . . . The crowd erupts as Kendrick scurries round on the mat to turn Noble over and go for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


NO!!!



Boos ring out as The Miz enters the ring and kicks Kendrick in the side of the head to break up the count. The referee stands up and has a right good go at Miz, who retreats back to the apron as both Kendrick and Noble crawl across the mat, looking for a tag. Noble doesn’t know where he is going and makes the tag to Harry Smith with Kendrick tagging London back in to the match. Both men step through the ropes and run right at each other with London sliding through Smith’s legs and racing back up to his feet. Smith turns round in to a hard stiff kick to the chest, and London then takes him down to the mat with a LEG SWEEP DDT. . . . . Cheers ring out once again as London turns over and hooks the leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Smith gets his shoulder up, and London looks shocked, but quickly gets on with things as he gets back up to his feet. He bends down and tries to pull the heavier Smith back up too, but Harry pushes him away. London rushes back, but Smith gets up to his feet by his own accord and drives his boot in to the stomach of Paul London. He then grabs the wincing co holder of the World Tag Team titles and sets him up for a suplex. The son of Davey Boy Smith then replicates his Hall of Fame father by lifting London vertically up in to the air and holding him there for almost ten seconds before bringing him crashing down to the mat with a DELAYED VERTICAL SUPLEX. . . . .


Smith stands back up to a pop from the crowd, but Morrison & The Miz enter the ring. Miz distracts the referee while Morrison walks up from behind Smith and plants him with A REVERSE DDT. . . . . He quickly slips back out, as does The Miz while Burchill tries to get at them, but for the ref stands between Burchill and the smug duo’s corner. He reluctantly walks back over to his corner and stands back on the apron as London starts to crawl across the mat, but Smith also comes round and does the same. London isn’t sure of which direction he’s going in as he makes a tag to Noble, but as Noble steps inside the ring and walks in to the middle, he sees Smith reach up and make the tag to the fired up Paul Burchill.


Noble doesn’t look happy and stands still as Burchill walks towards him. Noble shakes his head and then throws a right at Burchill, but the UK native blocks it and whips Noble back in to the ropes, ducking his head in the process. As Noble comes back though, he sees the ducked head of Burchill and gives it a good kick. Burchill’s head snaps back up, but Noble strikes while the iron is hot as he grabs Burchill’s head and takes him down to the mat with a SWINGING NECKBREAKER. . . . . Noble crawls at speed across to Burchill as he hooks the leg for a cover with the ref making the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


NO!!!



Burchill lifts his shoulder up, and Noble looks gobsmacked, mouth wide open and all. He sits up in absolute shock, but then gets on with things as he stands back up and walks over to Burchill’s legs. He tries to lift them up, but the big Brit kicks him away, with Noble falling back to the mat. Both men make their way back up, but Noble is up first as he swings a wild right at one half of the Smackdown’s champs. Burchill ducks it and grabs Noble around the upper torso, then reacts with speed as he connects with a NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX. . . . . The Chelsea born champion holds on for a cover with the crowd counting in tandem with the referee. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


ALMOST!!!



Noble just, and I mean, just kicked out of that one. Kash looks like he’s about to have a stroke on the apron, but he takes action as he steps down off the apron and walks over the timekeeper’s table. He grabs one of the title belts and slides it in the ring, towards Noble, unknown to the referee as he watches Burchill stand back up, who also missed it. Kash then slides in the ring himself, kicking Burchill in the back and then walking in to Burchill’s corner, but the referee stops him and tells him to leave the ring. Smith isn’t letting him get off lightly though as he climbs in to the ring and walks over to Kash. He knocks him down to the mat with a right hand and whips him in to the ropes as Noble comes round. But before Kash can bounce off the ropes, Smith runs at him and clotheslines him over the top to the floor below, getting a big pop from the crowd.


The Miz sees a chance as Smith stands by the ropes, and The Chick Magnet enters the ring and runs at Smith as he turns round, but Smith lifts him over the top rope with a back body drop. This angers Morrison who enters the ring and yells at the referee, but London and Kendrick get involved as they enter the ring and deliver a DOUBLE DROPKICK TO THE BACK OF JOHN MORRISON. . . . . THE MOMENTUM CARRIES THE SHAMAN OF SEXY TOWARDS THE ROPES AND IN TO A BACK BODY DROP FROM SMITH. . . . . Morrison joins Kash and The Miz on the outside, but as they try to stand up, London and Kendrick get that look in their eyes as they charge at the ropes with Smith standing to the side as THE HIGH FLYERS DIVE THROUGH THE ROPES AND TAKE ALL THREE MEN DOWN WITH A SUICIDE DIVE. . . . .


A big pop breaks out as all five men hit the floor on the outside with the referee walking over to the ropes and looking at the carnage, but while his back is turned, Noble gets back up to his feet with the title belt in hand. Smith sees it and walks over to him from the side, then drags the belt out of his hands, reminiscent of Saturday Night’s Main Event. Noble is pissed and yells at Smith who sees Burchill standing up behind him, and gestures at Noble to turn round, which he does. Burchill explodes with a thunderous kick to the stomach, and then pulls Noble in to him and NAILS HIM WITH THE C4. . . . . The crowd go crazy as Smith then leaves the ring with the belt in hand as the referee turns round and runs over to make the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


YES. . . . . IT’S OVER!!!



WINNERS: By pinfall, and still WWE Tag Team Champions, The UK Pack @ 16.18.


AFTERMATH: “Britannia” hits to a pop from the crowd as Smith joins Burchill in the ring, hugging him as the referee collects their WWE Tag Team title belts. He brings them over to them and passes them to the champions who raise them up in the air while the other five men remain on the floor by the barricade on the outside. Burchill & Smith walk in to the corners and pose for several seconds before walking back over to each other and hugging again. They then leave the ring and make their way to the back.


Michael Cole: Well it’s a win for Smackdown, it’s just unfortunate that we won’t see Burchill and Smith bring the Raw titles with them to Smackdown this coming week. . . that’s if of course they don’t get drafted tomorrow night

Jim Ross: That would be one hell of a draft for Raw, and that way we would have both champions on our show. . . But ladies and gentlemen, let’s take you back to yesterday when many of our wonderful fans, some of which have travelled around the world had the chance to meet their favourite WWE superstars


***VIDEO PROMO***

We see clips from the WWE Fan Fest yesterday with WWE superstars signing autographs, meeting and greeting fans, as well the fans commenting on how much they’re looking forward to Wrestlemania.


***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


Lilian Garcia is stood in the ring

Lilian Garcia:
Please welcome the class of 2008 WWE Hall of Fame inductees

***HUGE POP***

The Hall of Fame Inductees and representatives walk out to the stage in this order to a standing ovation.

  • “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase
  • Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat
  • Diana Smith representing “The British Bulldog”
  • “Stonecold” Steve Austin
  • The Rock
  • “The Macho Man” Randy Savage
  • “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair
  • Bret Hart representing Owen Hart
Lilian Garcia:
Please show your appreciation for the class of 2008


They stand on the stage and are applauded for a good thirty seconds before we cut to a video package.


***VIDEO RECAP***

  • The Undertaker defeating Umaga with a chokeslam on to a steel chair on Smackdown last December with Taker going through to a Number One Contendership match
  • Umaga attacking The Undertaker in the number one contendership match with Shawn Michaels, costing him the match
  • William Regal announcing a Last Ride match for the first show of the New Year
  • Umaga attacking Taker backstage before the match could start, taking him in the hearse to a graveyard and leaving him there
  • Regal telling Umaga & Estrada there would be a First Blood match just days before the Royal Rumble against The Undertaker
  • Umaga defeating Taker, but only due to the referee seeing Taker bleed and not Umaga
  • The Royal Rumble, and Umaga going through everyone from number two, only to be eliminated by The Undertaker just before the final elimination of The Undertaker by Kane
  • Friday night on the next Smackdown, Umaga attacking Taker during his match with Shelton and making him bleed from the mouth after a leg drop on a steel chair
  • Umaga & Estrada seeing lights flicker in the back
  • Umaga & Estrada in the ring and a video message from Taker appearing on the tron, announcing the Last Man Standing match for Wrestlemania
  • The next week and Umaga waiting in the ring for his opponent when Taker’s music hit and the dead man returned, taking both Umaga & Estrada out with chokeslams

***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


“Virtual Voodoo” hits as an intense Umaga walks down the ramp along with a calm Armando Estrada

Justin Roberts:
This bout is the LAST MAN STANDING MATCH. . . Introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by Armando Alejandro Estrada. . . from The Isle of Samoa, weighing in at 350 pounds. . . UMAGA!

***HEAT***

The Coach: Are you ready Michael? It’s time for the legendary winning streak of The Undertaker’s to come to an end

Michael Cole: Well Coach, we’ll have to see about that. . . There’s no doubting the threat that Umaga possesses here tonight to the incredible streak of the dead man, but The Undertaker is just as dangerous as The Samoan Bulldozer

The Coach: I don’t think so Michael. Umaga is like nothing else The Undertaker has ever faced, not even at Wrestlemania. . . Tonight it all comes to a grinding halt

“Deadman’s Symphony” plays as the stadium goes dark with smoke blowing across the stage as The Undertaker slowly makes his entrance

Justin Roberts:
And his opponent, from Death Valley, weighing in at 299 pounds. . . THE UNDERTAKER!

***HUGE POP***

Michael Cole: You can never. . . ever underestimate the greatness of The Undertaker, and if Umaga and Estrada think all they have to do is turn up tonight, they are going to find out the hard way that you should never play with fire

The Coach: Michael, you can deny it as much as you want, but the fact is that very soon, the greatest Wrestlemania record of all time is going to be history

Michael Cole: I hope that’s not the case Coach, but I think Umaga is capable of beating The Undertaker right here tonight. He’s done it before, but this is different, this is where The Undertaker has never lost. . . We sure are in for one heck of a ride


***MATCH #7***



LAST MAN STANDING MATCH
The Undertaker vs. Umaga w/Armando Alejandro Estrada


The dead man walks in to the middle of the ring with Umaga then following as they stare intensely in to each others eyes with neither showing any fear whatsoever. After a couple of seconds, we hear the bell ring with Taker & Umaga both seeming to ignore it as they continue to stare at each other until Umaga seems to become a little fazed and takes a step back, but he catches The Undertaker off guard with an uppercut thrust to the jaw, knocking Taker a little off balance. The Samoan Bulldozer follows through with another blow, but as he tries for one more, Taker ducks his head and then lifts it back up to grab Umaga by the arm. He then applies a wristlock on him and drives his shoulder in to the upper chest of Umaga three times, knocking him a little unsteady on his feet as Taker then lets go of his arm and turns back in to the ropes.


But as he comes back, Umaga levels him with a SAVOTE KICK TO THE FACE OF THE DEAD MAN. . . . . The phenom falls flat on his back with Umaga standing back up straight, but instead of letting the referee make a count, he steps back in to the ropes, comes back and drops a leg across the upper chest and throat of The Undertaker. He stands back up as Taker rolls on to his side, but The Samoan Savage doesn’t let him recover as he grabs him by the arm and drags him in to the corner, then pulls him up to put him in the tree of woe position. Umaga then turns round and walks back to the opposite corner before turning back and hitting the dead man with a JUMPING HEADBUTT TO THE CHEST. . . . . Taker falls down and flat on to his stomach with Umaga stepping back and allowing the referee to start counting down The Undertaker. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .



Taker starts to come round with Umaga reacting straight away by walking over to him and pulling him up to his feet, but Taker surprises him. He blocks a shot from Umaga and levels him with a couple of rights of his own, but Umaga fights back by grabbing Taker’s head and head butting him very hard, knocking Taker off balance. He then steps forward and whips Taker in to the ropes, but as he comes back, he ducks under Umaga’s outstretched arm, runs through and comes back to take Umaga down with a FLYING CLOTHESLINE. . . . . A big pop meets that as Taker makes his way back up to his feet with Umaga falling to the mat with the momentum taking him under the bottom rope to the outside.


Estrada walks round to check on Umaga as Taker watches on with a very serious look on his face. Umaga starts to stand back up, and the dead man looks to have something in mind as he turns round and runs in to the ropes, and as he runs back across, HE DIVES OVER THE TOP ROPE AND TAKES UMAGA BACK DOWN TO THE FLOOR WITH A HIGH ANGLE SUICIDE DIVE. . . . . Estrada dodged it by stepping to the side at the last second with Taker landing on top of Umaga before falling to the floor below. The Cuban manager of Umaga looks stunned as both men remain down with the referee counting them down. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .



Both men make it back up to their knees


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .



They’re both back up with Taker throwing a right hand at the Samoan’s head, putting him on the back foot. He then grabs his wrist and tries to whip him towards the barricade, but Umaga reverses it with Taker’s back crashing in to the wall in front of the fans. The monster doesn’t stop there as he pulls Taker away from the barricade, then scoops him up and drops him on to the top of the security wall with Taker’s head crashing down in to it before he falls in a heap on the floor. Again the referee starts to count Taker down with Umaga getting back in the ring. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .



The Undertaker starts to sit back up


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .



The dead man gets back up to his feet with Umaga looking as intense as ever as he stands ready and waiting in the ring. Taker walks slowly over to the apron and slides back in under the bottom rope, but Umaga is on him like a rash, stomping all over the back of the dead man. He relents and decides to drag the beaten up phenom back up to his feet, then whips him hard in to the corner. He takes a second before running in at him, turning round and SPLASHING THE UNDERTAKER WITH HIS BACK CRUSHING IN TO THE CHEST OF THE DEAD MAN. . . . . Taker just slumps down the ropes as Umaga walks out of the corner, back to the opposite corner and then turning round. With fire in his eyes, Umaga sees the position he has Taker in and then charges back, looking to hit THE SAMOAN WRECKING BALL. . . . .


As he turns round to smash his big ass in to the face of the phenom, Taker pulls himself out of the corner and to the side as Umaga charges right in to the pads, back first. He staggers out of the corner with Taker using the ropes to help himself back up to his feet, where he grabs Umaga by the throat and CHOKESLAMS HIM DOWN TO THE MAT. . . . . A huge pop breaks out as the monster is driven in to the mat, but Taker didn’t get all of it and feels the effects of the beating he’s taken as he falls against the ropes and holds on to them to avoid falling to the mat. He takes the chance to catch his breath as the referee looks down and counts Umaga down with Estrada looking worried on the outside. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .


Umaga rolls on to his side


6 . . . . .


7 . . . . .



The Bulldozer gets up to his knee


8 . . . . .


The monster is back up, looking a little shaky on his feet as Taker, who doesn’t look fully recovered, grabs him by the arm and tries to whip him in to the ropes. Umaga reverses it, with Taker coming back off the ropes at pace and in to a SPINNING SIDE SLAM. . . . . Taker took a hard bump there from Umaga, but instead of letting the ref count Taker out of the match, Umaga pulls Taker back up to his knees as he too gets back to his feet, and then stands up himself. He grabs Taker around the chest and looks to be going for a BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . Taker fights it though and head butts Umaga, not once but twice, freeing himself from the savage’s grasp. He then slips behind his opponent and grabs him around the waist, but Umaga drives his elbow back in to the side of The Undertaker, forcing him to relinquish the grip. Umaga then slips behind The Undertaker and quickly connects with a REVERSE STO. . . . . Taker lands hard on the mat again as Umaga continues to give it his all with the referee again starting to make a count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .



Taker starts to come round


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .



The phenom sits up, and Umaga pounces straight away, walking over to him and pulling him up to his feet. He chops hard against the dead man’s chest, forcing him back in to the ropes, but as he tries for an irish whip, the legendary Undertaker reverses it. As Umaga comes back off the ropes, Taker runs back in to the centre of the ring and plants Umaga with a RUNNING DDT. . . . . A pop breaks out as Umaga’s head is driven right in to the mat, but as Taker stands back up, he’s in for a shock as he sees Umaga getting right back up and screaming out in Samoan. He tries again as he whips Umaga in to the ropes, and this time as Umaga comes back, The Undertaker DRIVES HIS HUGE BOOT RIGHT DOWN UMAGA’S THROAT. . . . . That seems to do a little more damage as the monster stays down for several seconds while Estrada decides its time to act as he grabs a chair from ringside, then steps on to the apron. He catches the attention of The Undertaker, who walks over and grabs Estrada by the shoulders, scaring him half to death.


He then lets go and grabs the chair off the panicked Cuban before turning round as Umaga stands back up. He walks over to Umaga AND SMASHES HIM ACROSS THE SKULL WITH THE CHAIR. . . . . But Umaga just stands there like nothing happened, allowing Taker to HIT HIM WITH THE CHAIR FOR A SECOND TIME. . . . . Umaga felt that one and falls back slightly with Taker THEN SMASHING HIM HARD ACROSS THE FOREHEAD FOR THE THIRD TIME BEFORE THROWING THE CHAIR IN TO UMAGA’S FACE. . . . . The Samoan Bulldozer falls back in to the corner and drops to a seated position against the pads. Taker then picks the chair back up and walks in to the corner with the chair in hand. He then lodges it in between the bottom and second rope, right in front of Umaga’s face before taking a couple of steps back. He then walks back at pace to DRIVE HIS BOOT IN TO THE CHAIR AND IN TO UMAGA’S FACE. . . . . Umaga’s head just leans to the side as he then falls on to his side with the chair showing the effects with a nice big imprint of Taker’s boot while the referee starts to count Umaga. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .



Umaga starts to come round and sit up


7 . . . . .


8 . . . . .



Taker walks over, but Umaga gets to his knees and drives his head in to the phenom’s chest, sending him staggering out of the corner holding his chest, allowing Umaga to get back to his feet. However, what Taker doesn’t see is Umaga pulling the chair out of its lodged position in the ropes. He then walks up behind Taker and SMASHES THE CHAIR ACROSS THE BACK OF THE DEAD MAN. . . . . Taker drops to his knees with Umaga dropping the chair and then walking round to stand in front of Taker. He pulls him up from his knees and grabs him around the neck with his left hand and then lifts his right hand up in the air with his thumb ready to strike. The crowd and Estrada know what’s coming, and with one swift blow, UMAGA NAILS THE UNDERTAKER IN THE THROAT WITH THE SAMOAN SPIKE. . . . . Taker just falls flat on his back as Estrada raises his arms on the outside with Umaga just staring down intensely at the dead man and breathing heavily while the referee starts to count down The Undertaker. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .


7 . . . . .


8 . . . . .



Taker rolls on to his side with Umaga watching on, but Umaga looks pissed as he sees Taker about to get back up. He picks the chair back up and DRIVES IT IN TO THE RIBS OF THE UNDERTAKER. . . . . That halts Taker’s recovery as he falls back on to his back, but Umaga isn’t done. He places the chair on The Undertaker’s chest and turns round to walk in to the corner. Estrada looks confused as The Samoan Bulldozer climbs up to the top rope with the crowd standing on their feet in anticipation, watching on as UMAGA LEAPS OFF THE TOP, SPLASHING TAKER WITH THE CHAIR ON HIS CHEST. . . . . Chants of “Holy Shit” ring out as Umaga rolls around in pain as he feels the agony of the diving on to the chair. Estrada looks stunned as the referee counts both men as they remain laid out on the mat. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .


7 . . . . .



Both men start to make their way to their knees with Estrada shouting words of encouragement at Umaga


8 . . . . .


9 . . . . .



Umaga gets up first while Taker just avoids being counted out as he too struggles back up to his feet. The two men then turn round and walk right in to each other, and it’s Umaga who strikes first with a vicious backhand chop to the chest, knocking Taker back a few paces. Umaga then grabs him by the arm and tries for an irish whip, but Taker reverses it and nails Umaga with a BIG BOOT TO THE FACE. . . . . The fans cheer as Umaga falls back and lands by the ropes with Taker getting an evil look on his face as he walks over to the ropes and climbs through them. He then jumps down off the apron and reaches inside the ring to pull Umaga under the bottom rope so he lies across the apron before climbing back on to the apron himself, walking up the steps. He stands by the ringpost for a couple of seconds before shifting across the apron and DROPPING HIS LEG ACROSS THE THROAT OF THE SAMOAN BULLDOZER. . . . . The leg drop connects and Umaga rolls back inside the ring as Taker stands back up and climbs through the ropes.


He doesn’t give Umaga any time as he pulls him back up, then whips him hard in to the corner before charging in at him and hitting him with a hard clothesline. The phenom then grabs Umaga by the arm and whips him hard in to the opposite corner before charging in at him again and nailing him with another hard clothesline across the chest. The Samoan monster staggers out of the corner as Taker turns back and runs in to the ropes, but as he runs back, Umaga lifts him up in to the air and falls back, PLANTING HIM WITH ONE HELL OF A SAMOAN DROP. . . . . It takes a couple of seconds for Umaga to come back round, but once he’s back up, he drags Taker by the arm in to the corner and sits him up against the pads. The monster then retreats to the opposite corner before charging back at the dead man and SMASHING HIM IN THE FACE WITH THE SAMOAN WRECKING BALL. . . . . Umaga walks out of the corner as Taker falls on to his side, lying by the ropes as the referee starts to make a count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .



The dead man starts to get to his knees


6 . . . . .


7 . . . . .



Using the ropes, The Undertaker is able to stand back up in the corner, but Umaga races in to action, running in to the corner and SPLASHING TAKER. . . . . Umaga doesn’t stop there as he whips Taker in to the opposite corner, races in and SPLASHES HIM FOR A SECOND TIME. . . . . Taker looks deprived of air as he staggers out of the corner with Umaga then back tracking in front of him before grabbing him around the chest and tossing him behind with AN OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . Umaga stands right back up, runs in to the ropes and comes back to SPLASH TAKER AS HE LIES FLAT ON THE MAT. . . . . The monster has done some real damage to The Undertaker here, and it could be all over as the referee starts his count again. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .



Taker starts to come round


6 . . . . .


7 . . . . .



The dead man rolls on to his knees


8 . . . . .


9 . . . . .



The Undertaker stands back up, but looks very unsteady on his feet. Umaga doesn’t look happy as he walks over to Taker, but the dead man fights for his life and throws a right hand at him. He continues and connects with another, putting Umaga on the back foot before grabbing around the throat for a CHOKESLAM. . . . . A pop breaks out, but Umaga fights back straight away by grabbing Taker’s throat and then moving in to his body to headbutt him, setting himself free. The blow takes the phenom down to the mat with Umaga just staring down at him for a couple of seconds before turning round and walking towards the corner, only for Taker to sit up to the delight of the cheering crowd. Estrada tries to warn Umaga, waving his arms at him as Umaga steps through the ropes. Umaga stops and stares at Estrada, not knowing what’s going on as Taker walks up behind him. The Samoan Bulldozer then turns round on the apron with Taker grabbing him around the throat and CHOKESLAMMING HIM DOWN TO THE FLOOR. . . . . Huge cheers break out as Umaga lies in a heap on the floor below, with the announce tables close by. As Taker looks down with no emotion in his eyes, the referee starts to make the count on Umaga. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Estrada tries to help Umaga come round, lifting his head off the floor


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .



Umaga shows signs of movement, sitting up and putting his hands against the floor to try and help him back up


7 . . . . .


8 . . . . .


9 . . . . .



Umaga stands back up to break the count. Taker climbs through the ropes and jumps down to the floor below as the groggy Umaga stands there, but Estrada distracts Taker by slapping him across the back. The dead man turns round with a ferocious look on his face, scaring the crap out of Estrada as Umaga turns round and grabs a steel chair from by the timekeeper’s table before walking back up behind Taker, just as he grabs Estrada by the throat. The crowd try to warn Taker as Umaga has the chair in hand and then SMASHES IT IN TO THE BACK OF THE UNDERTAKER. . . . . It doesn’t have the effect he thought as the dead man just turns round and stares right back at the stunned Samoan. Estrada helps his man out as he drops to his knees behind Taker and low blows him. The fans boo loudly as Taker falls to his knees with UMAGA SMASHING THE CHAIR IN TO HIS SKULL. . . . . Boos ring out as UMAGA HITS ANOTHER CHAIR SHOT TO THE HEAD. . . . . Taker’s busted open and falls down on to his side as Umaga drops the chair while the referee makes the count on The Undertaker with the crowd chanting his name in the hope he comes back round. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .



Taker starts to come round


6 . . . . .


7 . . . . .



The dead man sits up with Umaga panicking.


8 . . . . .


9 . . . . .



Taker gets back to his feet while Umaga strips the Spanish announce table. But with his back to Taker, he doesn’t see the dead man punch one of the cameraman and steal the camera. Estrada looks on in horror as Taker walks towards Umaga, who turns round in to Taker and A SHOT TO THE HEAD WITH THE CAMERA. . . . . Umaga falls off balance, and Taker drops to him the floor with TWO MORE SHOTS TO THE HEAD WITH THE CAMERA. . . . . The fans cheer like crazy as Taker then stands above the now bleeding Umaga, with Estrada standing back and looking in absolute shock. The dead man then bends down and drags the helpless Umaga back up, then pushes him back on the announce table he stripped just moments ago. The fans go crazy as Taker then rests Umaga’s body on the table with his head facing the ring before turning back and walking over to the Raw announce table. He then climbs on to it as the fans cheer like mad, watching on as Taker then walks across the table and JUMPS ACROSS TO THE SPANISH ANNOUNCE TABLE AND DROPPING HIS LEG ACROSS UMAGA’S CHEST. . . . . The table breaks in half as both men fall to the floor with the table just collapsing from under them while the fans chant “Holy Shit”. The referee watches on in shock, but has no choice but to start counting them both down. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .



Taker starts to come round and tries to get back up


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .


7 . . . . .



Umaga turns on to his side and starts to get back up while Taker does stand back up


8 . . . . .


9 . . . . .



Umaga just makes it back to his feet with Taker then pummelling him with a hard shot to the back before grabbing him by the head. He walks over to the apron and then smashes Umaga’s head against the apron before tossing him in to the ring steps. Umaga falls against them and sits up against the steel as Taker then moves forward and drives his boot against Umaga’s head with the sound of skull on steel ringing out throughout the crowd. Again, Umaga just falls in a heap on to his side as Taker stands back and allows the ref to make the count while the helpless Estrada watches in on no more than hope. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .



Umaga starts to sit up with Taker just staring at him


6 . . . . .


7 . . . . .



Umaga grabs hold of the apron and starts to pull himself up


8 . . . . .


9 . . . . .



The Samoan Bulldozer is back on his feet, but Taker walks past him and lifts up the top tier of steps to a massive pop from the crowd. Estrada panics as Umaga is about to turn round to face the fearsome sight, and it’s Estrada who distracts The Undertaker, walking round behind him and tapping him on the shoulder. The dead man turns round to see Estrada standing there, but he turns back to Umaga, only for THE SAMOAN SAVAGE TO NAIL HIM WITH A SAVOTE KICK TO THE FACE. . . . . TAKER FALLS DOWN BUT AS HE FALLS WITH THE STEPS IN HAND, HIS HEAD FALLS DOWN ON TO THE STEEL STEPS. . . . . Umaga looks down at the phenom for a couple of seconds before climbing back in to the ring while a delighted Estrada watches on as the referee counts the dead man. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .



Signs of life as Taker turns on to his side


7 . . . . .


8 . . . . .



Crawling towards the apron, he pulls himself up


9 . . . . .


He’s back on his feet, leaving Estrada shocked and Umaga angry. Estrada panics once again as he then looks under the apron while Taker slowly slips back in the ring under the bottom rope. Before Taker can even get to his feet, we see Estrada pull out a large rope from under the ring and throw it in to Umaga. The Samoan Bulldozer takes one look at it before picking it up with Taker slowly standing up by the ropes. Umaga then walks up behind Taker as he looks blankly in to the crowd with Umaga then lifting the rope over Taker’s head and putting it around his throat, trying to strangle him with it. The crowd boo and Taker struggles, holding on to the top rope while Umaga pulls hard on the rope, but Taker somehow finds an escape by driving his leg back in to the groin of The Samoan Savage. Umaga just falls back to the mat, slowly as he rolls around slightly to sell it.


The dead man takes several seconds to recover before turning round to see the rope lying by his feet. He looks down at it and then picks it up to a pop from the crowd while Umaga slowly makes his way back up to his feet, totally unaware of Taker walking up behind him. The dead man then places the ropes around Umaga’s neck and pulls tightly with the crowd going nuts while Estrada looks on worried from the outside. Taker continues to pull tightly on the rope with Umaga getting very groggy, and Taker then pulls him down to the mat, holding on to the rope as he lies beside the Samoan as he seems to be losing consciousness. Umaga’s eyes flicker for a while with Taker still choking him with the rope, and then his eyelids completely shut and he seems out of it. The referee tells Taker to let go, but he only does after about five seconds before standing back up to watch the referee count Umaga down. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3 . . . . .


4 . . . . .


5 . . . . .


6 . . . . .



No sign of life from Umaga


7 . . . . .


8 . . . . .


9 . . . . .



Umaga isn’t moving as Estrada bangs his hands against the apron


10 . . . . .


IT’S OVER!



WINNER: The Undertaker @ 24.23.


AFTERMATH: “Deadman’s Symphony” plays as the lights go out, leaving some purple spotlights to shine down on the ring as Taker stands back up, looking worse for ware before dropping to his knee for his signature taunt. The crowd all stand up and applaud the dead man as he extends his winning streak with Estrada looking distraught on the outside. The Undertaker stands back up and leaves the ring to walk up the ramp with EMT’s coming down to check on Umaga, who doesn’t show any sign of life while the camera follows Taker up the ramp as he turns round and looks in to the crowd.


Michael Cole: The streak continues Coach. The Undertaker moves on to 16 and 0 at Wrestlemania. . . Unbelievable!

The Coach: Michael, I don’t think The Undertaker has ever been pushed this hard at Wrestlemania as he was tonight by Umaga. This could well have been a different story, but credit to The Undertaker, he gave it everything he had, but he needed to Michael to put The Samoan Bulldozer away

Michael Cole: Oh without question Coach, The Undertaker was pushed to the limit tonight, but once again he stands tall at Wrestlemania


***VIDEO PROMO***

John Cena is shown preparing in his locker room for the WWE Championship match later on in the evening.

***MIXED RECEPTION***

Jim Ross: There we see him, love him or hate him, John Cena will be competing later on for the WWE Championship in what promises to be one of the most fiercely competed match ups in Wrestlemania history. . . But coming up next, we have something beyond the realms of personal. . . Let’s take a look back at how this match came together


***VIDEO RECAP***

  • Triple H pissed at Vince after missing out on a WWE Championship match at Cyber Sunday, accusing him of fixing the vote
  • The next night on Raw and Vince about to smash Triple H’s skull in when Stephanie McMahon came down and told him not to or she’d reveal the secret, which she did, that she and Triple H were married
  • Triple H revealing to Vince that he and Stephanie made out Hornswoggle was his illegitimate son, but refused to tell him who his son was
  • Triple H defeating Vince in a Streetfight, putting him in hospital in the process
  • Vince returning to Raw and accepting Triple H in to his family
  • Triple H telling Stephanie he didn’t trust Vince going in to Saturday Night’s Main Event in December with his title match against Randy Orton
  • Vince finding out from Stephanie that she was pregnant at SNME, then offering to look after Aurora so she could tell Triple H
  • Stephanie telling Triple H she was pregnant, then finding Aurora & Vince had gone
  • Triple H on the verge of winning the title when Vince appeared with Aurora, distracting him for JBL to clothesline him
  • Vince announcing JBL was the son Triple H & Stephanie kept from him
  • Shane McMahon giving Triple H another title shot on the first Raw of the year, but screwing him out of it to join his father & half brother
  • Linda McMahon announcing that there would be a new GM after the Royal Rumble
  • The Royal Rumble match, Triple H eliminating Shane & JBL, then JBL pulling Triple H out of the ring, eliminating him
  • The next night on Raw and Linda McMahon unveiling Eric Bischoff as the new Independent Head of Authority
  • Triple H defeating Vince in a Steel Cage match on Raw to win the right to pick the Wrestlemania match of his choice
  • Batista & Ric Flair coming to Triple H’s aid on Raw after a McMahon sixed attack
  • The McMahon’s travelling to Smackdown and barricading Batista’s door to enable a 3 on 1 attack on Ric Flair
  • Triple H announcing that Evolution would reunite to take on The McMahon’s at Wrestlemania
  • Triple H guarding the entrance at Smackdown to block off The McMahon’s, only for JBL & Shane to come through the crowd and attack Batista
  • A montage of all the brawls they have been through, ending with Triple H blasting Bischoff in the head with a chair last week on Raw when Vince ducked it

***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


“No Chance in Hell” hits as Vince McMahon and his sons walk down the ramp, looking very serious and slightly nervous

Lilian Garcia:
This bout is scheduled for one fall. . . Introducing first, at a combined weight of 777 pounds. . . the team of John “Bradshaw” Layfield, Shane McMahon, and Vincent Kennedy McMahon!

***MAJOR HEAT***

Jerry Lawler: Are you ready JR? This is what I’ve been waiting for

Jim Ross: King, I think we’re in for a real cracker jacker here. . . I have to give Mr. McMahon credit for actually going through this, I just have a feeling he might regret it

Jerry Lawler: Are you kidding JR? He’s Vince McMahon, he’s not afraid of anyone or anything. . . It’s Evolution who should be worried

Jim Ross: I don’t believe that for a minute, I’m sure Evolution are very much looking forward to getting their hands on these three men

“Line in the Sand” blasts out & Evolution make their way down to the ring with their game faces on

Lilian Garcia:
And their opponents, at a combined weight of 787 pounds. . . the team of Batista, “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair, and Triple H. . . EVOLUTION!!

***HUGE OVATION***

Jerry Lawler: I hope they know what they’re getting themselves in to. . . You don’t mess with the McMahon family JR

Jim Ross: Come on King, you’re not telling me that whatever happens in that ring, the McMahon’s won’t have it coming after everything they’ve done

Jerry Lawler: How one sided can you be JR? Triple H kept the truth from Mr. McMahon and JBL. That itself was totally uncalled for

Jim Ross: Oh and after everything Mr. McMahon has done to his daughter Stephanie and her husband has been fine hasn’t it King? . . . I think you should put a sock in your mouth and just watch this match

Jerry Lawler: So should you but I haven’t seen Mick Foley or Mr. Socko all night long

Jim Ross: Oh be quiet


***MATCH #8***



Evolution vs. The McMahon’s

Both teams decide on who is going to start the match off, with Triple H and Batista stepping through the ropes and on to the apron as Ric Flair removes his gown and passes it over the top rope. The McMahon’s have a longer talk and it ends with Shane telling JBL and his dad that he wants to start it off. He turns round as the bell ring as both he and Flair walk out of the corner with Shane running right at Flair, but in to a right hand that sends him down to the mat. Shane gets right back up though, but Flair is right on him, hitting him hard across the chest with several chops to the chest that force Shane back in to the ropes.


The Nature Boy then whips The Golden Boy in to the opposite set of ropes and walks in to the centre of the ring, hitting Shane as he comes back by sticking out his knee with Shane running right in to it and falling to the mat. Shane holds his stomach as he gets back up almost straight away with Flair getting right on him, hooking both his arms and planting him with a DOUBLE ARM SUPLEX. . . . . Shane lands hard on his back and isn’t getting right back up this time as Flair steps back in to the ropes, comes back and nails Shane with a RUNNING JUMPING KNEE DROP. . . . . The crowd enjoy that, but Flair isn’t done as he reaches down and pulls Shane back up. Shane O Mac is very groggy as Flair pulls his head under his arm and then lifts Shane vertically in to the air before falling back to the mat with a suplex. Flair turns over and goes for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Shane O Mac gets his shoulder up with Flair not looking too surprised as he stands back up to his feet. Taking Shane for granted, he calmly reaches down and tries to pull him back up to his knees, but Shane hits him with a right hand to the chest. Flair slumps down ever so slightly as Shane steps back in to the ropes. But as he comes back and goes for a clothesline, Flair ducks it as Shane runs past him and tries to stop himself with Flair turning round and chop blocking Shane’s right knee. The prodigal son drops to the mat and tries to drag himself towards his corner, but Flair doesn’t let him get that far by grabbing his foot and trying to drag him back. Shane puts up a fight though as he turns over on to his back and kicks Flair off of him, with Flair falling back to the mat as Shane pulls himself back to his corner and makes the tag to his half brother, JBL.


The Wrestling God doesn’t waste any time as he steps through the ropes at the same time as Flair is able to get back on his feet and then charges at JBL, but gets knocked down by a shoulder block. The Nature Boy gets up to his knees, but JBL isn’t feeling sympathetic as he hammers him across the back with some vicious forearm shots. With Flair’s back turning a not so nice shade of red, JBL pulls him back up to his feet and whips him in to the corner. He then grins at Triple H and Batista before charging in at Flair, only for the Hall of Famer to step out of the corner, resulting in JBL running right in to the pads himself to a pop from the crowd. Flair then hits JBL as he turns round with a couple of hard back hand chops while the crowd join in with a few woos of their own. The Nature Boy then turns back in to the ropes, but as he runs back, JBL stands up straight, shaking off the chops and DRIVES HIS BIG BOOT IN TO THE FACE OF FLAIR. . . . . The illegitimate son of Mr. McMahon drops to his knees straight away and hooks Flair’s leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Flair kicks out to JBL’s frustration. He stands up in a hurry and reaches down to drag Flair back up. He grabs hold of Flair’s left arm before pulling Naitch right in to him and a short arm clothesline. He doesn’t look happy and quickly follows that up by dropping an elbow in to Flair’s chest, hurrying up to his feet and driving a second elbow drop on to the pain ridden Hall of Famer. JBL stands back up looking very angry and intense, but he then hears Vince calling out for a tag. He turns round and sees him desperately calling out for the tag. He walks over to his dad and makes the tag, allowing a very smug Vince McMahon to walk up towards Flair as he lies on the mat. Vince’s big smile doesn’t go down well with Triple H, who stares angrily at him while Vince feeds on it and urges Flair back up to his feet.


Slowly but surely, The Nature Boy pulls himself back up, and just as he gets to his feet looking dazed, Vince takes a swing and slaps the legend right across the chops. That seems to wake Flair back up, and he loses it. He hammers Vince with hard right hands to the face, knocking Vince back against the ropes. Flair then takes a step back before moving forward again and clotheslining the self made billionaire over the top rope to the floor below, getting a big pop from the crowd. Flair then decides it’s time to fight the odds as he walks in to the corner and climbs to the top rope as Vince makes his way back up to his feet. The crowd rise to their feet too as Flair then jumps off the top rope and hits Vince with a double axe handle right, between the eyes. The Chairman of the Board falls right back down to the floor while Flair stands up and smiles into the Orlando crowd.


He then bends down to pull Vince back up, and just as he rolls him back in to the ring, Shane climbs through the ropes. The referee walks over to him as Shane turns him round, allowing JBL to jump down to the floor below. With the ref telling Shane to get out, JBL pulls Flair down from the apron as he tries to get back in and then whips him in to the ringpost, with Flair hitting head first. The American Hero quickly walks over and pulls him back up before rolling him under the bottom rope, giving Shane his cue to stand back on the apron, as does JBL. Triple H & Batista are fuming as they then step in to the ring, but the referee runs over and quickly tells them to get back on the apron, which they reluctantly do as Vince crawls across the mat and hooks Flair’s legs with the ref turning round and rushing to make the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Mr. McMahon stands back up and then reaches down to grab Flair by the head and pull him back up to a vertical base before then whipping him in to the corner. As Flair hits the ropes, he holds on to the top rope with Vince looking very angry and then running right at him. The Nature Boy though lifts his boot up in to Vince’s face with the eldest McMahon staggering away in to the centre of the ring and holding his face while Flair turns to the side and walks across to make the tag to Triple H. The Game steps through the ropes to a huge pop from the Florida fans, and they get louder as Triple H charges across at Vince and nails him with a clothesline, sending him down to the canvas.


He gets back up within a couple of seconds with his son-in-law hammering him with a succession of right hands, which force him back in to the ropes. The King of Kings then grabs Vince’s arm and whips him in to the ropes, and as Vince comes back, Triple H walks in to the centre of the ring and hits him with a high knee strike. Vince falls flat to the mat, and we then see Shane charging in to the ring and at his brother-in-law, but straight in to a right hand that sends him down to the mat. JBL tries his luck as he climbs through the ropes and runs at Triple H who ducks head and then nails him with a hard right hand, and then another with JBL falling back in to the ropes.


The Game doesn’t waste any time as he then clotheslines JBL over the top rope while Shane crawls back to his corner and Vince gets up slowly. Triple H stares down intensely at JBL for several seconds before turning round and walking back over to Vince, who rakes his eyes and earns a ticking off from the referee. Vince just ignores him and takes The Game down with a falling clothesline. He stands back up with a big smile on his face but sees no one there ready to come in, and isn’t happy. He has no choice but to turn round, and sees Triple H getting up from his knees to hit Vince in the face with a right hand before then whipping him in to the ropes, and as Vince comes back off the ropes, Triple H shifts behind him and locks in a SLEEPER. . . . .


Triple H looks determined to send his father-in-law to sleep, and the longer he keeps the hold locked in, Vince’s fight fades as he looks to be drawing unconscious. The referee steps in and raises Vince’s arm before dropping it, and it falls down by his side, giving the referee a second chance to see if Vince can fight on, but again Vince’s arm falls back down to his side. With the crowd cheering, for the final time, the referee lifts Vince’s arm up as JBL slides back in the ring behind Triple H and clubs him across the back, breaking up the hold to the anger of the crowd, as well as Batista and Flair who try and climb in to the ring.


The referee stops them and tells them and JBL to get back out, which they do, but Shane slips in unnoticed and kicks Triple H in the back of the head before walking back on to the apron and protesting his innocence to the referee. With both men on the mat, Vince starts to come round and crawl across to his corner first and makes the tag to Shane, who climbs to the top rope while The Game fights his way back up to his feet. As he turns round, Shane jumps off the top but in to a kick to the chest from Triple H who then hits him with a FACE BUSTER KNEE SMASH. . . . . Shane falls to the mat as Triple H falls back to his knees, but makes his way across to his corner to make the tag to The Animal, Batista.


He enters the ring to a big pop as he urges Shane back up to his feet, looking ready to explode in his corner. Slowly but surely, Shane stands back up, and as he turns round, Batista runs at him and takes him down with a hard clothesline. He then reaches down and pulls him back up to his feet, and then whips him hard in to the corner before charging in and driving his shoulder in to Shane’s chest. Batista backs out from the corner slightly to allow Shane to stagger out, but Batista doesn’t mess about as he walks back in to Shane and scoops him up on to his shoulder. He turns round out of the corner and runs in to the centre of the ring before slamming Shane down to the mat with a RUNNING POWERSLAM. . . . . Shane’s back hits hard against the canvas as Batista goes for a cover straight away. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Shane fights on and lifts his shoulder off the mat to keep the match going. Batista isn’t giving Shane time to recover as he gets back up to his feet and drags Shane up to his knees before running past Shane and in to the ropes, runs back and drives his foot in to Shane’s spine. Shane instantly falls back down to the mat as Batista looks down emotionless with JBL & Vince looking concerned on the apron. Shane looks in pain as he tries to get back to his knees with Batista standing there and urging him up, but he gets distracted as he sees JBL trying to step through the ropes. The referee is quick to walk over and get on JBL’s case as Batista turns to then offer JBL a fight, but with Shane getting to his knees behind The Animal, Batista is taken down to the mat with a low blow.


Shane then crawls towards his corner as JBL stands back on the apron, and with Batista not able to stop him, Shane makes the tag to JBL. He climbs through the ropes at pace and walks quickly over to the squirming Batista. He pulls him up to his knees and places Batista’s head between his legs, setting him up for a POWER BOMB. . . . . The fans boo loudly, which just makes JBL’s smile even bigger, but wait. . . . . JBL’S SMILE GOES AS BATISTA LIFTS HIM OVER HIS HEAD WITH A BACK BODY DROP. . . . . The fans are cheering now as Batista makes his way back to his knees, as does JBL, but it’s JBL who gets up first, close by to the ropes. Batista is almost back up as JBL then charges at him, BUT BATISTA RIPS HIM IN HALF WITH A SPEAR. . . . . The crowd explodes with cheers as Batista then hooks JBL’s leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


SHOULDER UP!!!



The relieved father and half brother look relieved on the apron as JBL just keeps them in the match. Batista sits back up to his knees and looks shocked for several seconds before getting back up to his feet where he reaches down and drags JBL back to his knees and sets him in place for THE BATISTA BOMB. . . . . The fans are on their feet as Batista raises his arms in the air, and then lifts his thumbs up before bringing them back down to a massive pop, only for Vince to climb through the ropes, distracting him. The Animal lets go of JBL as he and the referee make their way over to the corner as Vince stands there getting a mouthful from both sides. JBL falls back to his knees, but he seems to be reaching in to his trunks for something. We then see from a close up that he’s got some brass knucks, and puts them on to his right hand, oblivious to Triple & Flair. With the ref in control of the Vince situation, Batista turns back round and walks over to JBL, who plays possum as Batista then pulls him back up, only for JBL to smash him in the face with the knucks, busting The Animal open. He quickly puts the knucks back in his trunks and hooks both of Batista’s legs, but The Game realises with the referee turning around to make the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . . 3?


NO!!!


. . . . . TRIPLE H TO THE RESCUE



The Game pulls JBL off of Batista by his feet as the referee stands back up and yells at him. Triple H tries to tell him about the knucks, but he’s not listening, allowing Shane & Vince to get in the ring and stomp all over Batista, prompting Flair to get in. The referee quickly blocks him off too as he tells both Flair and HHH to get out as Shane & Vince retreat back to their corner with JBL standing back up. As Evolution get back on the apron, JBL pulls a weary looking Batista back up to his knees and then runs back in to the ropes by Triple H, who kicks JBL in the back. The Wrestling God looks pissed as he turns round and stares angrily at The Game, then throws a wild right at him, but Trips pulls his head back. JBL gets even more pissed before turning round and charging back at Batista, who stands up straight and takes JBL down with a SPINNING SIDE SLAM. . . . . The fans like that, and so does Batista by the look of it as he hooks JBL’s legs for another pin attempt. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


NO!!!



JBL lifts his shoulder up at the last second with gasps coming from the crowd, clearly thinking it was over as the camera zooms in on a relived Vince & Shane. Batista stands back up, shaking it off as he walks over to his corner, making the tag to Triple H. He steps through the ropes to a big pop from the crowd, walking slowly over to JBL who tries to make his way back up to his knees. As soon as he gets half way back up, Triple H gives him a helping hand before grabbing the back of his head and taking him down with a FALLING NECKBREAKER. . . . . The crowd cheers again, but they quickly get even louder as Triple H stands back up at JBL’s head and throws his arms above his head for his signature taunt, stalking JBL for THE PEDIGREE. . . . .


It’s deafening as the crowd go crazy, but Shane spoils the party as he races in to the ring with Vince joining him. Vince grabs the referee, distracting him as Shane clubs Triple H across the back, allowing JBL to crawl to safety as The Game falls to his knees. Shane runs back on to the apron and gets a warning from the referee as Vince then steps back through the ropes too with JBL crawling towards them and reaching out to make the tag to his father. A smiling Vince climbs in to the ring and walks over to Triple H, pulling him up to his feet and going for an irish whip, but it’s reversed as Triple H then grabs his father-in-law and sends him crashing in to the mat with a SPINNING SPINEBUSTER. . . . . The crowd loved that, and The Game tries to follow it up by going for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


. . . . . NO!



Vince barely gets his shoulder up as JBL & Shane throw their arms up in the air in sheer relief as a ticked off Triple H sits back up before getting back to his feet, walking over to the corner and making the tag to The Nature Boy, who enters the ring to a massive pop. He walks over to Vince and pulls him up to his feet, then chops away at him before lifting him up around the top of the legs and hitting an INVERTED ATOMIC DROP. . . . . Vince lands on his feet, but spins around with the pain before turning back to Flair who sweeps his legs, taking Vince down to the mat. Flair then reaches down and lifts up Vince’s legs, sending the crowd in to raptures as he looks to apply the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK. . . . .


Flair twists the leg and turns round, only for Vince to kick him off, but FLAIR FALLS BACK IN TO THE REFEREE WITH BOTH MEN FALLING TO THE MAT. . . . . Gasps ring out again through the crowd as everyone looks stunned in and around the ring. As Flair picks himself back up slowly, JBL enters the ring and runs at him, TAKING HIS HEAD OFF WITH A CLOTHESLINE FROM WALL STREET. . . . . Boos ring out now as a smug JBL stands over Flair’s fallen body, then turns to mock the crowd by the ropes, but he doesn’t see Batista stepping through the ropes as he runs at him and clotheslines him over the top rope to the floor below. Batista stares down in sheer anger at JBL as Shane O Mac then enters the ring behind Batista, who can’t do anything to prevent Shane from low blowing him.


Shane smiles as Batista drops to his knees and lies by the corner. The smirking Shane is in for a shock as Triple H races through the ropes to a massive pop from the crowd. He runs at Shane, but The Golden Boy ducks under Triple H’s arm and then drops to his knees to low blow The Game. He falls down to the mat, close by Batista as Shane stands alone, then sees the motionless Flair. He walks over to him and drags him by the arm, in to the corner. He sits Flair up against the pads before climbing through the ropes to the outside. He looks under the ropes and pulls out a trash can, which he tosses in to the ring and slides back in himself. He gets booed heavily as he grabs the can and puts in right front of Flair before turning round and walking to the corner with a huge smile on his face.


Boos ring out as he climbs up to the top rope as we see Batista getting to his knees in the opposite corner. Shane looks in to the crowd, still with a huge smile on his face before he LEAPS OFF THE TOP FOR THE COAST TO COAST. . . . . BUT NO. . . . . AS SHANE LEAPS THROUGH THE AIR, BATISTA RUNS OUT OF THE CORNER AND SPEARS HIM JUST BEFORE SHANE GETS TO FLAIR. . . . . A huge pop breaks out, along with “Holy Shit” chants as Shane just crash lands in to the mat before rolling under the bottom rope to the floor below. Batista picks up the trash can and tosses it to the floor below, but as he turns round, JBL has already slipped back in the ring. He charges at Batista and takes him down with THE CLOTHESLINE FROM WALL STREET. . . . .


The momentum takes Batista down to the mat and under the bottom rope as Triple H starts to get back up. JBL turns back round with a sly grin on his face, realising Triple H is at his mercy. He allows The Game to stand back up, and as he slowly walks away from the ropes, JBL charges at him for another CLOTHESLINE FROM WALL STREET. . . . . BUT TRIPLE H COUNTERS WITH A SPINNING SPINEBUSTER. . . . . JBL rolls to the outside as Triple H remains down for several seconds, totally unaware that Vince left the ring and has picked up a chair from ringside. The Chairman of the Board enters the ring again with the chair in hand as both Flair and Triple H come back round, but Vince makes a bee line for HHH as he gets back up first and drives the chair across the back of The Game, sending him back down to the mat. A chorus of boos rings out as Vince smiles sadistically before turning back round to see Flair standing back up.


He walks over and lifts the chair above his head, then BRINGS THE CHAIR CRASHING DOWN TOWARDS FLAIR’S SKULL. . . . . BUT THE NATURE BOY KICKS VINCE IN THE GROIN. . . . . The chair drops to the mat along with Vince as Flair then kicks the chair out of the ring and locks in THE FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK TO A MASSIVE POP FROM THE CROWD. . . . . The crowd all rise to their feet and watch on as Flair makes Vince scream out in pain with The Nature Boy pulling tightly on the legs of the Chairman of the Board. Everyone else is out of it as Vince looks in grave danger with Eric Bischoff running down the aisle in a referee’s shirt to a mixed reception. Flair looks stunned as Bischoff enters the ring, but carries on with the hold, desperately trying to force Vince to tap with the owner of the WWE struggling to get close to the ropes, and as Flair’s face goes bright red with the desperation, Vince gives up the fight and taps out with Bischoff calling for the bell.


WINNERS: Evolution by pinfall @ 21.32.


AFTERMATH: “Line in the Sand” blasts out as The Nature Boy slowly gets back up to his feet, looking in shock as Bischoff raises his hand in the air. Bischoff looks the same as ever, and after letting go of Flair’s hand, he leaves the ring, just as Batista & Triple H pick themselves back up and congratulate Flair. They turn to see Bischoff walking back up the aisle, who also turns back and looks in to the ring with Evolution looking very confused. Triple H then shrugs his shoulders and hugs Flair, as does Batista before they all raise their hands together to a huge ovation from the sell out crowd. JBL sits up and then drags Vince to the ropes and then out of the ring as Evolution walk to the ropes and pose for the crowd. Vince & JBL don’t look happy at all, neither does Shane as he comes too on the outside as a victorious Evolution celebrate in each corner of the ring with big smiles on their faces.


Jim Ross: There we have it King, what a match!

Jerry Lawler: You think? . . . That was unbelievable JR, I just can’t believe that the McMahon’s have lost this match

Jim Ross: Are you kidding me King? . . . Not only is it justice, but they deserved to win this match. . . They took it to the McMahon’s, who did nothing but cheat the entire match King

Jerry Lawler: Well that’s your opinion

Jim Ross: You’re damn right it is!


***VIDEO PROMO***

A helicopter is shown scouring the night sky. It then cuts to a birds eye view with a stadium below before cutting to a shot of Summerslam 1992 with a view from the top of the stadium as The British Bulldog celebrated his victory over Bret Hart. The shot then changes, shifting round the new Wembley Stadium.

VOICEOVER: What would life be without memories? . . . Some memories seem distant, some not so, but for those who are unable to recall this momentous occasion, they will get that chance. . . For the first time in its twenty five year history, Wrestlemania will leave America and Canada. . . For the first time ever, Wrestlemania will come to you live from the United Kingdom, where new memories will be shared.




***VIDEO PROMO***


Shawn Michaels & Edge are shown on a split screen, warming up in their respective locker rooms for their World Heavyweight Championship match.

***MIXED RECEPTION – CHEERS FOR HBK AT FIRST AND THEN BOOS FOR EDGE***

Michael Cole: There we see the two men who won’t just be battling it out in the main event tonight Coach, but the two men who will be competing for the World Heavyweight Championship

The Coach: Michael, I can’t wait much longer, just bring them out right now!

Jim Ross: Sorry to disappoint you Coach, but you’re going to have to wait a little bit longer, because coming up next, it is the battle for the WWE Championship


***VIDEO RECAP***

  • Randy Orton putting John Cena on the shelf from Raw last October
  • Orton winning the title at No Mercy
  • Cena returning to Raw in January, shocking Orton, leading to the rematch being announced at the Royal Rumble
  • Their TLC match at the Rumble with some of the highlights, ending in Orton claiming the title
  • Kane returning in his mask to win the Royal Rumble, eliminating his brother to win it
  • Kane appearing on Raw the next night and chokeslamming Orton
  • Orton travelling to Smackdown and trying to convince Kane to stay on the blue brand, but once again being attacked
  • Eric Bischoff announcing a Cena/Orton match with Cena getting a title shot at Wrestlemania if he could beat Orton, and Kane’s distraction to give Cena the win
  • Paul Bearer announcing straight after that Kane would be challenging for the WWE Championship at Wrestlemania
  • Bearer being shown laid out backstage with a Cena cap next to him
  • Later on that night, Cena making his entrance with Kane attacking him and chokeslamming him off the stage
  • Orton admitting that he was behind the attack the next week, then Bischoff making a match between Orton & Kane for later on
  • The match, and Orton getting DQ’d, then attacking Kane with a steel chair, but looking shocked as Kane sat up when Orton though he had him
  • Cena returning to Raw and attacking Orton & Kane, chokeslamming Kane through the announce table
  • The stare down from last week on Raw when Orton won his match with Cena standing up at the announce table with Kane on the ramp

***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


“Burned” blasts out, as does Kane’s pyro as The Big Red Machine & a smiling Paul Bearer make their way down to the ring

Lilian Garcia:
This bout is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WWE CHAMPIONSHIP. . . Introducing first, the challengers. . . First being accompanied to the ring by Paul Bearer, weighing in at 323 pounds. . . KANE!

***HEAT***

Jerry Lawler: It’s time JR, this is going to be incredible!

Jim Ross: It sure is King. . . I can’t help but ask myself if it is this man’s destiny to become the WWE Champion tonight. . . He has been nothing short of unstoppable since he shocked the world, winning the Royal Rumble on his return back in January. . . I think we might just see a new WWE Champion at the end of the night

Jerry Lawler: JR, I think it’s more Randy Orton’s destiny to retain the title, but you’re right about one thing, Kane has looked almost invincible since he’s returned. . . I fear for John Cena and Randy Orton tonight

“My Time is Now” plays as a very focused John Cena walks out to the stage

Lilian Garcia:
From West Newbury, Massachusetts. . . weighing in at 240 pounds. . . JOHN CENA!

***HEAVY MIXED RECEPTION***

Jim Ross: However, it may just be that this man can raise his game like he always does at Wrestlemania. . . John Cena has yet to taste defeat at Wrestlemania, and for the last three years, he has left Wrestlemania the WWE Champion

Jerry Lawler: You don’t need to tell me JR, I’ve been sat right here for every single one of those matches, and I’ve not seen anyone since Shawn Michaels step up their game on this stage like John Cena. . . There’s no way you can write this man off tonight

“Voices” blasts out & Randy Orton walks down to the ring with a very serious look on his face

Lilian Garcia:
And finally. . . from St Louis, Missouri, weighing in at 245 pounds. . . he is the WWE Champion. . . “The Legend Killer”, RANDY ORTON!

***TON OF HEAT***

Jim Ross: And King, you can’t write this man off either

Jerry Lawler: Absolutely not. Randy Orton has been, in my eyes, the greatest WWE Champion for a long time, and I don’t think he is going to let that run come to an end here tonight

Jim Ross: He has one big fight on his hands, arguably the biggest of his career against two absolute relentless superstars in Kane and John Cena

Jerry Lawler: I know that JR, but more importantly, so does Randy Orton. . . You can guarantee that Orton has prepared for this since the second he signed the contract. . . He knows what he’s in for tonight, and I think he might surprise a few people

Jim Ross: Well it’s time to find out just what destiny has in store for The Legend Killer. . . Fasten your seatbelts folks cos we’re in for one wild ride


***MATCH #9***



WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
John Cena vs. Kane w/Paul Bearer vs. Randy Orton (c)


Kane walks directly in to the middle of the ring as a cautious Cena and Orton look tensely at each other for a couple of seconds while Kane tilts his head. Cena turns back to look at Kane before charging at him and hammering away with right hands while Orton watches on carefully, looking as if he’s ready to pick up the scraps. Cena’s rights get the crowd going as he puts Kane on the back foot before grabbing his arm and trying for an irish whip, but The Big Red Machine is able to reverse it. As Cena comes back off the ropes, he fights back with a clothesline to the chest of Kane, but it doesn’t do much damage as Kane remains on his feet. Cena looks up at the fearsome sight of Kane staring back down at him and decides to try again as he turns back to run off the ropes, coming back firing at Kane with a more aggressive clothesline, knocking Kane slightly off balance as Orton watches on with interest, still holding back in the corner.


Cena has a look of fire in his eyes as he turns back round and races back in to the ropes, and as he comes back, he knocks Kane off his feet with a third vicious clothesline. The fans cheer as Kane hits the mat while Cena waits for him to return to his feet while Orton still stays out of harms way in the corner. As Kane gets up, Cena is on him like a rash and nails him with a series of right hands to the head with them seeming to register. He then whips Kane in to the corner and then charges in at The Big Red Monster, but he runs right in to a raised boot from Kane. Cena staggers out of the corner holding his face and then turns round as Kane runs out of the corner and takes him down with a falling clothesline, sending Cena rolling towards the ropes. As Kane starts to stand back up, Orton sees his chance to strike as he runs over and clubs Kane across the back relentlessly, keeping him on his knees.


He then tries to pull Kane up, but the challenger to his title gets to his knees and stuns Orton with an uppercut thrust, landing on Orton’s chin and knocking him back a couple of paces. Kane then follows up by nailing him with another before scooping him up and slamming him right back down again. He then turns back in to the ropes, comes back and tries for an elbow drop as he drives it towards Orton, but The Legend Killer rolls to the side with Kane hitting the mat. Orton races back up to his feet with Kane getting back up too as Cena starts squirming by the ropes. Orton looks focused as hell as he hits Kane with a european uppercut and follows up with a couple more, putting Kane on the back foot enough to try for an irish whip. The Big Red Machine reverses it as he sends Orton flying in to the ropes, and as the WWE Champion comes back, Kane sends him overhead with a back body drop.


Orton lands hard on his back and sits up holding his back while his face scrunches up a little while Cena stands back up and sees Orton in pain. He then walks over to Kane and spins him round, allowing him to kick Kane hard in the gut. He then whips him in to the ropes and is able to send Kane down to the mat with a hip toss. He doesn’t remain on the mat for long as he makes his way back up to his feet straight away, along with Orton who also stands back up close to Kane. Cena walks over to Orton and grabs him by the head, then reaches out to grab Kane’s head before banging them both together to a pop from the crowd. Kane looks unsteady as Orton staggers back in to the ropes looking very groggy with Cena taking advantage as he runs at him and clotheslines him over the top rope.


The fans cheer as Cena looks down and smiles as Orton hits the floor for a couple of seconds before turning back round and charging at Kane, who swings an arm out. Cena ducks underneath it to run through off the ropes, and as he comes back, he takes Kane down with a diving shoulder tackle to the delight of the fans who cheer with some boos being heard. Orton makes his way back up to his feet on the outside, and Cena sees it as it happens right in front of him. He races to the ropes and baseball slides out of the ring to hit Orton with a right hand before grabbing his wrist and trying to whip him in to the barricade, but it’s reversed by Orton as Cena crashes in to the wall, back first.


Cena winces in pain as his back crashes in to the wall with Orton not relenting as he pulls Cena back and then scoops him up before dropping him face first on to the barrier in front of the Florida fans. Cena’s head bounces off the security wall before he just falls in a heap on the floor while Orton turns back and sees Kane standing back up with his back to him. The Legend Killer slides back in the ring in a hurry as he runs up behind Kane and clubs him across the back. He then spins him round and tries for an irish whip, but Kane reverses it again as Orton is sent in to the ropes, and as he comes back, Kane catches him and plants him with a SIDEWALK SLAM. . . . . Orton lands hard on his back with Kane following up by readjusting his position to go for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Orton lifts his shoulder up but he still looks in pain as he rolls on to his side while Kane makes his way back up to his feet. Once up, he reaches down and pulls the champion up to his knees, but Orton shocks him by driving his forearm in to the chest of Kane and then dragging himself back in to the corner to get away from Kane. It doesn’t work as Kane walks menacingly over to him, but Orton shifts forward and grabs Kane around the top of the legs, then drags him back with Kane landing on his knees as his face strikes the middle pad. Orton turns round with a sick smirk on his face as Paul Bearer panics on the outside. The Legend Killer then stands back up and stomps away at Kane’s back several times before the referee steps up behind him and tries to calm him down, but Orton carries on stomping away and then as the referee gets in his face, Orton pushes him away. The ref walks back over and yells at Orton, but he just ignores it as Kane slumps in the corner. Orton walks back across the ring and then turns back round before charging back at Kane as he pulls himself up the ropes and drives his boot right in to the back of his head as it rests up against the pad on the second rope. The WWE Champion rushes as he drags Kane by the feet out of the corner, turns him over and goes for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Easy kick out from Kane as Orton sits up looking pissed. He then sits Kane up and applies a rear naked chin lock to the monster with a look of real determination on his face, trying desperately to get Kane to tap out, but it’s just happening as Kane fights the hold. He is able to get back up to his feet with Orton looking slightly worried as The Big Red Machine shows him what he’s up against by lifting Orton up and falls back to the mat, hitting a side suplex and sending the champion crashing in to the mat, getting a decent pop from the crowd who seem to be split between all three men. Kane responds by making his way back up to his feet with Orton also sitting back up, and as he is able to stand up, Kane grabs him by the arm straight away and whips him hard in to the corner. Cena can be seen coming round on the outside as Kane charges in at Orton and nails him with a hard clothesline with Orton then staggering out of the corner.


Kane then climbs up to the top rope as we can see Cena sitting back up on the outside, but as Orton turns round to face Kane inside, The Big Red Machine leaps off for the top for a FLYING CLOTHESLINE. . . . . As Kane comes down with his arm stretched out, Orton dodges it at the last second by ducking to the side as Kane hits the mat. He doesn’t stay down for long as he makes his way back up, but so does Orton who has Kane in his sights, kicking him in the gut and pulling his head in to position for a DDT as Cena walks over to the apron. Kane fights back at Orton and lifts him off his feet and tosses him hard down to the mat with Orton rolling to the ropes and holding his back as Cena slips under the bottom rope. He runs at Kane and hits him with a couple of hard rights, putting him on the back foot before kicking him in the gut and pulling Kane’s head under his arm. Cena then grabs Kane’s leg and plants him with an INVERTED FISHERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . With Cena still hooking Kane’s leg, the referee counts Kane’s shoulders. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Kane kicks out, but Cena has his game face on as he rushes back up to his feet, followed by Kane. But as Kane starts to stand back up, Cena runs past him and in to the ropes, and as he comes back off the ropes, he grabs Kane by the head and takes him down with THE THROWBACK. . . . . Again the crowd react in a mixed manner, but mainly positive as Cena again is quick to get back to his feet with Kane also standing up, looking a little dazed as Cena then shifts behind Kane, lifts him up by the waist and sends him down to the mat with a SPIN OUT POWERBOMB. . . . . Cena holds on for the cover as the ref makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Kane kicks out by kicking his foot back in to Cena’s face, who falls back to the mat for a couple of seconds before sitting back up. He shakes off the pain as he stands back up and walks over to the corner, climbing up to the second rope as Kane gets to his knees. But before Kane can stand up straight, Cena jumps off the second rope and hits a DIVING LEG DROP BULLDOG. . . . . Kane’s face hits the canvas as Cena tries to take advantage again by hooking the leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Kane gets his shoulder up as Orton starts to squirm around by the ropes while Cena carries on with things, standing back up to his feet and signalling for the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE. . . . . The mixture of cheers and boos meets him as he turns back in to the ropes, comes back and does his taunt before dropping to nail Kane in the head as Orton stands back up and walks up behind Cena. He grabs Cena around the waist as he gets back up and plants him with a WHEELBARROW SUPLEX. . . . . Orton drove Cena hard in to the mat, front first and looks to take advantage by turning him over and going for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Orton looks to get on with things as he stands back up straight away and then jumps up in to the air before driving his knee in to the chest of Cena. He then looks to put a further hurting on Cena by applying body scissors to the former champion. Cena screams out in pain at first as Orton squeezes tight, but Kane is getting back up to his feet, and he cuts short Cena’s suffering by stomping on the ribs of Orton, forcing him to let the hold go. Kane watches on as Orton struggles to his feet, and once he’s up, The Big Red Machine grabs him around the throat with a double handed choke lift, but Orton fights it and is able to slip back down to his feet. Kane hits him with an uppercut thrust though, knocking Orton back before turning back in to the ropes, but as he comes back, The Legend Killer responds with a PERFECT STANDING DROPKICK. . . . . With Cena showing signs of movement, Orton crawls over to Kane and stretches his arm out over his chest for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Again Kane kicks out as a downbeat Orton pulls his arm back before slowly making his way back up to his feet, but so is Cena. As they both stand up and turn round to face each other, Orton reacts first to kick Cena in the gut and explodes with a SNAP DDT. . . . . That also brings a mixed response from the crowd as Cena’s head is just spiked in to the mat, and as Kane starts to stand back up, Orton is desperate to wrap the match up by going for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Cena just lifts his shoulder up, leaving Orton shell shocked as he sits up and stares down in disbelief before seeing Kane getting back up. The WWE Champion stands back up and tries to take care of Kane, throwing a right hand at him, but The Big Red Monster blocks it and quickly nails Orton with a right hand of his own before whipping him in to the corner with Orton’s back hitting the pads. Kane then charges in at him, but Orton steps out and to the side as Kane runs in to the pads. He staggers round with Orton then unloading with a series of right hands and kicks to the gut before then climbing up to the second rope and hitting Kane with right hand after right hand as the crowd count along. But as Orton gets to seven punches, the monster fights back and grabs him around the top of the legs, walks out of the corner with Orton above his head and drops him down to the mat with a FALLING POWERBOMB. . . . . Orton landed hard and sells it by rolling around in agony, but Kane shimmies around and hooks the leg with the ref counting the champion’s shoulders. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


3. . . . . NO!!!



Bearer looks shocked on the outside as Orton just gets his shoulder up. Kane pulls himself back up to his knees and sees Orton in pain with Cena still motionless after the killer DDT. The monster stands back up and lifts his right hand up in to the air, seemingly getting ready for a CHOKESLAM. . . . . He waits patiently as slowly but surely, a groggy looking Orton gets back up and turns round with Kane then looking to grab Orton around the throat, but Orton ducks under Kane’s arm. The champion then runs in to the ropes, comes back and hits Kane as he turns round with a back elbow smash, knocking his challenger off balance. Orton then shifts behind him, grabs him around the neck and takes him down with a SIDE INVERTED BACKBREAKER. . . . . Orton’s eyes light up and he thinks this might be it as he hooks both of Kane’s shoulders with the ref counting the fall. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . KICK OUT!



Orton sits up looking frustrated at the referee, who tells him it was a two count, just to anger the champ a bit more. He then lifts himself back up while Kane remains on the mat, but Orton’s eyes light up as he sees Cena getting to his knees to the side of him. The Legend Killer’s eyes zoom in on Cena as he turns round and urges his arch nemesis up, seeming to be getting ready for the RKO. . . . . The crowd make their feelings clear with them being split between both men as Cena makes his way back up to his feet, not seeming to know where he is, but Kane also sits up and slowly makes his way back up with Orton completely oblivious of it. As Cena just about stands up, Orton leaps up in to the air, looking to grab Cena’s head, but Cena pushes Orton away and right in to the clutches of Kane as he stands up, grabbing the champion around the throat.


The crowd go nuts as Kane has Orton in his clutches, but Cena walks up to him with Kane then grabbing Cena with his other hand, setting them up for a DOUBLE CHOKESLAM. . . . . A huge mixture of cheers and boos ring out as Bearer lifts his hands in the air in delight on the outside, but before Kane can lift them up, both Orton & Cena kick him in the stomach and then pull his head down before lifting him vertically in to the air and falling back to the mat for a DOUBLE SUPLEX. . . . . That gets a big pop from the Orlando crowd, but as Cena & Orton get back up to their feet, they stare intensely at each other for several seconds until Orton turns to the side for a split second before turning back and swinging a wild right. Cena sees it coming and ducks his head before lifting Orton on to his shoulders for the F U. . . . . The fans are going crazy now as Orton looks in trouble, but he slips down Cena’s back to safety and quickly nails him with an OVERDRIVE. . . . . Orton hurries as he turns Cena on to his back and then going for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . ALMOST!



Cena gets his shoulder up, leaving Orton to get even more frustrated. But as he sees Cena coming round, he stands back up and retreats to the corner with evil intentions in his eyes, stalking his prey for the PUNT. . . . . Orton looks ready to explode as Cena starts to make his way on to his knees, but he is distracted by Kane as the monster pulls himself back up to his feet. Orton looks pissed and charges at Kane, but the champion ends up with Kane’s hand wrapped around his throat once again, and this time he ends up being raised up in to the air and dropped down to the mat with a CHOKESLAM. . . . . The fans again don’t know whether to boo or cheer as Kane drops to his knees and makes the cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . 3?


. . . . .


. . . . . CENA BREAKS IT UP!



Bearer is left looking stunned as Cena just dived across in time to stop the count. Cena slowly makes his way up to his feet, still looking very groggy as Kane picks himself back up too. Cena looks tensely at Kane who gives Cena an evil stare as they stand about five feet apart, but as Kane moves forward, Cena catches him off guard with a drop toe hold and quickly locks in the STFU. . . . . The fans are loving it as they cheer like crazy, whether it’s for Cena or for support to Kane, we don’t know as Cena looks like bursting an artery in his head in an attempt to make Kane tap just off the centre of the ring. He’s doing everything he can as his face gets redder and redder with Kane reaching out his arm as he tries to drag himself towards the ropes.


Bearer walks round and stands in front of him, urging him to pull himself to the ropes as Cena continues to apply tons of pressure on the challenger as he is slowly able to drag himself closer to the ropes and survival. Cena notices and cranks it up a notch, really busting a gut now as he really applies the pressure to his fellow challenger. It seems to work as Kane can’t get any closer, but with his father encouraging him on the outside, he gives it one last fight and uses every last bit of strength and energy to drag himself closer and closer with Cena panicking. He gets within touching distance as Cena holds on for dear life, but Kane reaches out and grabs hold of the bottom rope with the crowd again firmly split.


The referee tells an upset Cena to let the hold go, which he reluctantly does as a gloating Paul Bearer looks up and smiles at him. Cena stares down at him for a couple of seconds before turning round to see Orton getting up to his knees while the referee warns Bearer. He walks slowly over towards the champion and then attempts to pull him up to his feet, but Orton shocks him by rising up and planting him out of nowhere with the RKO. . . . . A surprising amount of cheers ring out, but Bearer panics and reaches inside to grab the referee’s foot while Orton reaches his arm out across Cena’s chest, expecting the referee to count. The referee turns round and tells Bearer to let go, but he doesn’t, with the referee desperately trying to free himself, which he does as he rushes over to count the fall. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . .


SHOULDER UP. . . . . SO CLOSE!



Orton sits up and holds his head in his hands, looking stunned that Cena kicked out as Bearer looks almighty relieved that Cena got his shoulder up while Kane starts to shift about as he lies on the mat. Orton’s face turns to thunder as he immediately stands up and turns Cena over on to his chest before locking in THE ORTON CLUTCH. . . . . The champion looks possessed as Cena remains very groggy after the RKO. Orton pulls very hard as he tries to get Cena to tap with the crowd seeming to be very pro Orton. Kane starts to sit up as Cena fights the hold, lifting his right arm in to the air and fighting for dear life as he then tries to pull himself to the ropes, but Orton has other ideas as he pulls even harder with the strain starting to show on Cena as he screams out in pain.


He keeps on fighting, but he can’t get close to the ropes and he looks to be on the verge of tapping when Kane gets back to his feet and walks over to them before stamping on Orton’s back, breaking up the hold to a mixed reaction from the crowd. Kane then reaches down to pull Orton up to his feet and then swings a right hand at him, but the champ blocks it and then kicks Kane in the mid section. Orton then turns back and runs in to the ropes, but as he comes back, Kane lifts his boot up towards Orton’s face. The Legend Killer ducks it and stops dead with Kane then turning round in to an RKO. . . . . ORTON HIT IT OUT OF NOWHERE. . . . . The champ hurries to turn over on the mat and hooks the leg for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . 3


. . . . . . NO!



Kane kicks out, leaving Orton, Bearer and the crowd stunned. Orton races up to his feet in absolute shock and gets right in the face of the referee, yelling at him that it was a three count, but the ref tells him it wasn’t, leaving Orton devastated as he holds his head in his hands. Bearer is close to wetting his pants with joy on the outside while Kane starts to show signs of movement as Cena drags himself to the ropes and gets up to his knees. Orton stares down at Kane and then walks in to the corner, focusing on Kane as he prepares to PUNT THE BIG RED MACHINE IN THE HEAD. . . . . Orton holds the ropes with one arm either side as he sets his sights on Kane as he starts to sit up with Cena standing up by the ropes. Orton doesn’t seem to notice him as he only has eyes for Kane, and as he then charges out of the corner, Cena walks away from the ropes and in to the middle of the ring to drop toe hold Orton and LOCKS IN THE STFU. . . . .


Orton didn’t see that coming, and he looks in trouble as Kane isn’t on his knees yet while Cena makes him scream in pain. The champ looks desperate as he lifts his arm up in the air to try and fight the hold with the electric crowd again going nuts, watching on as Cena’s face goes bright red with the sheer pressure and determination to make Orton tap. Kane gets back up to his feet behind them with the crowd trying to warn Cena, but as Kane turns round, he sees the danger and stamps Cena on the back of his head, forcing the hold to be broken. Kane bends down and pulls Cena right up to his feet as Orton crawls over to the ropes. Kane grabs Cena by the throat, lifts him up in the air AND PLANTS HIM WITH A CHOKESLAM. . . . . Cena lands hard on the mat as Kane drops down to his knees and makes the cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . . NEARLY 3!



Cena shows his resilience by lifting his shoulder up, but the monster clearly isn’t amused as he stands back up to see Orton using the ropes to help himself back up. Kane charges at Orton and clotheslines him over the top to the outside. Orton lands on the floor and doesn’t show any sign of getting back up anytime soon. Kane turns back round to see Cena slowly getting to his knees, and then walks menacingly over to him where he brings his arm across his neck, signalling for the end. He then scoops Cena on to his shoulder, trying to set him up for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER. . . . . Cena fights it straight away and slips down Kane’s back with The Big Red Machine turning round in to Cena, who lifts Kane on to his shoulders for the F U. . . . . Kane fights it with elbows to the head and is able to force Cena to let go with Kane landing on his feet. Cena turns round in to a scoop lift from Kane, who lifts him in on to his shoulder and pulls him in to position for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER. . . . . There’s no escape for Cena as Kane brings him down his body, resting Cena’s head by his knees as he drops down, driving Cena’s head in to the mat. Orton stands back up on the outside as Kane crosses Cena’s arm as the referee makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


Orton slides in to the ring and tries to dive across to stop the count


. . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . . 3


HE’S TOO LATE. . . . . IT’S OVER. . . . . WE HAVE A NEW WWE CHAMPION!



WINNER: By pinfall, and new WWE Champion, Kane @ 24:46.


AFTERMATH: “Burned” blasts out as Orton looks on in horror. Kane stands back up while the referee walks over to the ropes and collects the WWE Championship as Paul Bearer climbs up the steps and in to the ring. He walks over towards Kane as the referee brings the belt over with Bearer then asking for the belt. As he is passed it, Orton remains on his knees and holds one hand at each side of his head, looking shell shocked while Bearer straps the belt around Kane’s waist. Kane then lifts his arms up in the air and sets off his pyro with Orton then standing up several feet behind Kane & Bearer. He backs up to the ropes and then leaves the ring, not taking his eyes off of them as he back tracks up the aisle, still looking stunned while Bearer applauds the new WWE Champion.


Jerry Lawler: I can’t believe it JR, we have a new WWE Champion

Jim Ross: I’m not quite sure Randy Orton can believe it either King. He gave it his all tonight, but it just wasn’t enough. . . From this very moment, Kane is the new WWE Champion

Jerry Lawler: And how crazy does that sound JR? . . . This monster is now the top dog on Raw

Jim Ross: I think we are in for a very unpredictable new era on Monday nights with this man as the new WWE Champion. All hell is going to break loose, starting tomorrow night


***VIDEO PROMO***

Shots of Kane in a deserted warehouse are shown with a worried looking Randy Orton lurking in the corners. A trail of fire then ignites around the now empty warehouse with glass shattering.

VOICEOVER: There comes a time when consequences will be felt. . . They come when you least expect them. . . They come when you don’t want them, but you have no option but to deal with them. . . You have to deal with the Backlash.




***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


Michael Cole:
Well Coach, I for one am glad I won’t be at Backlash now that Kane is the new WWE Champion, but it’s nearly time for us to find out who will leave the main event of Wrestlemania 24 as the World Heavyweight Champion. . . We’re just a matter of minutes away from finding out who that man will be, whether it be Shawn Michaels or Edge. . . Let’s see what brought these two superstars to this oh so special occasion.


***VIDEO RECAP***

  • Shawn Michaels facing Batista at SNME in December for the World Championship, and Edge accidentally costing Batista the title
  • Edge facing Shawn Michaels for the World Championship in Canada with Michael Shane in his corner, only for Batista to cause a DQ
  • William Regal making a triple threat match for the Royal Rumble
  • The Rumble title match with HBK winning with the sweet chin music on Batista
  • Edge demanding a one on one match on Smackdown, claiming he didn’t lose at the Rumble
  • Regal making a six man elimination match for SNME with the winner facing HBK at Wrestlemania
  • Edge pinning Ric Flair at SNME to become the number one contender
  • Edge gloating on Smackdown and running down Michaels, calling him a fake and saying that he is Mr. Wrestlemania, not HBK
  • Michaels being attacked by Edge and The Rated R Superstar giving him a taste of the con-chair-to
  • Michaels returning to Smackdown, surprising Edge and telling him he is going to give his best Wrestlemania performance and keep the World Championship
  • Last week on Smackdown, Edge teaming up with Umaga to face HBK & The Undertaker, ending with Edge getting DQ’d for a chair shot and standing above him with an intense look on his face to end the show

***CUT TO RINGSIDE***


“Metalingus” blasts its way out of the speakers as the very determined Edge walks down to the ring

Michael Cole:
Ladies and gentleman, the time has come. . . Is Edge the man that he says he is? . . . Will he end the legacy of Mr. Wrestlemania right here tonight?

The Coach: Yes!

Michael Cole: You’re not even going to think about it?

The Coach: I don’t need to Michael. . . Let me remind you of something. . . Just like The Undertaker, Edge has never been pinned or made to submit at Wrestlemania and Shawn Michael has on several occasions. . . There’s no doubt in my mind that we are going to see a new World Heavyweight Champion crowned right here tonight

“Sexy Boy” nearly breaks the sound barrier as Shawn Michaels walks out to the stage, looking quite relaxed

Michael Cole:
Well this is what it’s all about, Shawn Michaels and the World Heavyweight Championship

The Coach: Don’t get carried away Michael cos this is the last time you will see that belt around the waste of the soon to be former World Champion

Michael Cole: Coach, he’s not called Mr. Wrestlemania or the show stopper for no reason. . . We saw The Undertaker take his performance to another level earlier tonight, and you can guarantee that The Heartbreak Kid will do the exact same thing

The Coach: He can take it to any level he wants Michael, it still won’t be enough to leave Florida as the World Champion

Michael Cole: Don’t count the chickens before they hatch Coach. . . Anyway, let’s take it to the ring and Justin Roberts

Justin Roberts: This bout is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP. . .

***MASSIVE POP***

Justin Roberts: Introducing first, in the corner to my left, the challenger, from Toronto, Canada. . . weighing in at 250 pounds. . . “THE RATED R SUPERSTAR”. . . EDGE!

***TONS OF HEAT***

Justin Roberts: And his opponent, in the corner to my right. . . from San Antonio, Texas, weighing in at 225 pounds. . . he is the current reigning and defending WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION. . . “The Main Event”, “The Show Stopper”, “The Heartbreak Kid”. . . SHAWN MICHAELS!

***HUGE OVATION***


***THE MAIN EVENT***



WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Shawn Michaels (c) vs. Edge


Michaels stands in his corner and passes his belt to Micky Henson as an intense Edge stares straight at the World Champion, and as the bell rings, Michaels steps out of the corner with Edge charging right at him. Michaels ducks his head as Edge runs past him, but he stops himself and turns back round with HBK grabbing his head and applying a side headlock. Edge fights it straight away and pushes Michaels in to the ropes, and as HBK comes back, he barges Edge down to the mat, getting a pop from the crowd. Edge is quick to get back to his feet as he walks in to a hard right hand from the World Champion that sends him back down to the mat. He races back up, but in to another right that again sends him down to the mat. It’s not enough to keep Edge from returning to his feet as Michaels then grabs him by the arm and tries for an irish whip that is then reversed by Edge, but as HBK comes back off the ropes, he takes the challenger down with a LOU THESZ PRESS. . . . .


The crowd cheers on HBK as he pummels Edge with continuous right hands to the head. After nailing Edge several times, the champ gets back up on his feet, reaches down to pull Edge up to his knees and then turns and runs in to the ropes, but as he comes back, Edge nails him with a FALLING CLOTHESLINE. . . . . Both men stay down for several seconds with Michaels crawling towards the ropes as Edge starts to get back up. Michaels uses the ropes to help him get back up, and as Edge stands up, he sees Michaels and gets a look of rage on his face before charging at the champion, but HBK sees him in time to lift him over his shoulder and to the floor below. A pop breaks out as Edge hits the floor while Michaels takes a couple of seconds to have a short breather before turning round to see Edge getting to his knees.


HBK holds on to the top rope, watching closely as Edge stands up, and as he turns round to face the ring, Michaels uses the ropes to elevate him in to the air and FALL DOWN ON TO EDGE WITH A SLINGSHOT CROSS BODY. . . . . The crowd cheer again as Michaels stands back up and milks the applause before sliding back in to the ring and back out again to break the count. He then walks back over to Edge, pulls him up to his feet and grabs him by the arm to try and whip him in to the steps, but The Rated R Superstar reverses it with Michaels crashing back first in to the steps. The Heartbreak Kid ends up slumped down against the steps while Edge leans on the apron for a couple of seconds to recover. He then walks over to Michaels and drags him up to his feet, then shoves him back in the ring before climbing back in himself to cover HBK. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Michaels gets his shoulder up easily as an angry Edge gets back up to his feet and stomps across HBK’s chest twice before walking over to the corner and climbing to the top rope. Michaels pulls himself up to his feet slowly as Edge lies in wait on the top rope, looking desperate to pounce, and as HBK turns round, Edge jumps off the top and connects with a MISSILE DROPKICK. . . . . Edge then scurries back across the mat to hook both of Michaels’ legs for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Again, Michaels kicks out, leaving Edge frustrated as he sits up. He grabs Michaels’ head and rolls him on to his knees as he stands up at the same time, then pulls him up to his feet and whips him in to the ropes. As Michaels comes back, Edge lifts his boot up towards Michaels’ face, but HBK ducks it, stops dead to turn round and lift Edge back on to his shoulder, sending him down to the mat with a SIDE SUPLEX. . . . . The fans cheer HBK as he turns it round on his challenger, but he stays down too, still feeling the effects of the previous minutes. Both men start to make their way back to their feet at the same time with Michaels blocking a right from Edge and hammering him with a couple of his own before turning round and running in to the ropes, but as he comes back, Edge stuns him by nailing him with a SPINNING WHEEL KICK. . . . .


Edge steals back the momentum and looks to take advantage as he gets back up by dragging Michaels over to the ropes and puts HBK’s left leg on the bottom rope. He holds on to the top rope before using it to jump up and come down with his feet on to Michaels’ ankle, but HBK pulls it away with the only thing Edge stamping on being the bottom rope, which makes him trip and fall back to the canvas as Michaels rolls to the side. Both men start to come back round, and as they stand up with Edge by the ropes, HBK gets up in the middle of the ring having rolled and away from the ropes. Edge looks pissed as he turns round and sees Michaels standing there, so runs right at him, but Michaels reacts by taking him down with a tackle, getting the crowd going yet again.


Michaels stands back up and drags Edge back up too, then hits him across the chest with some real hard chops, forcing Edge back against the ropes. With Edge forced up against the ropes, Michaels grabs his arm and whips him in to the opposite set of ropes before walking in to the centre of the ring and tossing Edge down to the mat as he comes back with an arm drag. Edge takes a small bump but starts to sit up straight away with Michaels lying in wait, patiently. As Edge finds his way back up to his feet, Michaels slips behind him, grabs him by the head and arm to take him down with a SWINGING NECKBREAKER. . . . . Edge doesn’t seem to be moving as HBK turns over and goes for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .



Edge lifts his shoulder up, showing some resilience as Michaels pulls himself back to his knees looking a little disappointed. He then seems to get a look in his eye, rushing to his feet and walking round to Edge’s legs and lifting them up, trying to lock in the FIGURE FOUR. . . . . Cheers ring out, but Edge fights it and pushes HBK away with his feet as Michaels turns, loosing his grip as he falls down to the mat. Both men take a few seconds before they are able to get back up, and as Michaels turns round to face Edge who swings a wild right at him. HBK ducks it as Edge then spins round with Michaels kicking him in the gut, but Edge holds on to HBK’s foot, leaving him on one leg, but the champ strikes back by smashing him in the side of the head with an ENZIGURI. . . . . A massive pop rings out as Edge just falls flat to the mat with Michaels too landing on the ground, but he quickly crawls across and turns Edge over to hook his leg while Henson makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


NO!!!



At the last second, Edge gets his shoulder up to the clear disappointment of the fans as they boo. Michaels also looks gutted as he sits back up while Edge crawls slowly over to the ropes facing the announce tables. Michaels watches Edge slowly using the ropes to help him up as he takes his own time standing up, allowing Edge all the time in the world to stand up, and once the challenger is up by the ropes, HBK charges at him and takes him over the top rope with a clothesline. The fans cheer again as HBK then sees Edge rolling on to his knees, so he walks over to the ropes and climbs through them to stand on the apron. He turns back round to face the ropes and holds on to the top rope with Edge standing up behind him, and as he turns round to see Edge standing up straight, Michaels uses the ropes to flip back and take Edge down with an ASAI MOONSAULT. . . . .


Edge falls to the floor with HBK on top of him, setting the crowd going again as they cheer the World Champion’s high spot. It takes the champ a few seconds before he is able to get back up, right in front of the announce table which he looks right at. He then gets the crowd going even more as he strips the Raw announce table, causing JR & King to panic as they stand up and walk to the side. He then turns back round to pull an already moving Edge back up, but The Rated R Superstar grabs HBK by the head and drives his knee in to the stomach of Shawn Michaels. With Michaels slightly crouched down and holding his gut, Edge then grabs him by the head, turns him round and smashes his head in to what’s left of the announce table. Michaels head bounces off with Edge then taking a couple of steps back as Michaels turns round, looking a little off balance.


Edge then looks to pull Michaels back, but HBK kicks him in the gut and reacts very sharply to pull Edge in to him by his head and takes his turn to smash Edge’s head in to the bare announce table. The fans cheer, and as Edge slumps against the table, Michaels turns back round and sees one of the monitors he dropped before, and then bends down to pick it up. With the crowd cheering like crazy as HBK sizes Edge up. The unsuspecting and starry eyed challenger then turns round, giving Michaels the green light to walk forward and DRIVE THE MONITOR RIGHT IN TO HIS SKULL. . . . . The fans love it and it’s obvious with the noise they make as Michaels then smirks and drops the monitor to the floor, right by Edge’s motionless body. HBK doesn’t look like he’s done as he bends down and drags his stiff challenger up to his feet and then rests him up against the announce table before pushing him on to it and spreading him out across it to a massive pop from the fans.


With Edge not moving at all as he lies across the table, Michaels turns back round and walks over to the apron, then steps back up on to it. He walks over to the corner and climbs up to the top rope, setting the fans off as they know what they’re about to see. Micky Henson also has an idea of what HBK is going to do and walks over to warn him, but HBK ignores him as he LEAPS ALL THE WAY DOWN OFF THE TOP ROPE AND DRIVES HIS ELBOW IN TO EDGE’S CHEST TO SEND THEM BOTH CRASHING THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE. . . . . Chants of “Holy Shit” ring out as both Michaels and Edge fall through the table and to the floor with only Michaels seeming to be making any slight movement. Henson rushes to the outside and checks over on both men as Michaels responds by lifting his head up off the floor. He starts to make his way back up, but it takes him a good ten seconds to get his balance right, and once he’s up, he bends down and pulls a lifeless Edge back up to his feet and drags him towards the ring apron, then rolls him under the bottom rope before climbing back in himself. Once back inside, he immediately hooks one leg and goes for a cover. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


FOOT ON THE ROPE. . . . .



Edge manages to survive, lifting his foot on to the bottom rope to stop the count, leading to boos coming from the pro HBK crowd. Michaels sits up and sees the foot on the rope and looks frustrated. He then pulls Edge away from the ropes and tries again as Henson counts the shoulders. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Edge is able to lift his shoulder off the mat to slightly anger HBK who just stares blankly in to space as Edge starts to come round and roll on to his side. After a few seconds, Shawn stands back up and reaches down to pull Edge back up. He holds Edge by the top of his head and looks in to his eyes, but Edge reacts by slapping Michaels across the face. HBK touches his cheek and looks to the side before turning back round and knocking Edge down with a hard right hand. He then bends down and pulls Edge right back up, then whips him in to the ropes, but as Edge comes back, he ducks under Michaels’ outstretched arm, stops running, turns round and nails Michaels with a REVERSE DDT. . . . . It takes him a couple of seconds before he is able to try and take advantage by going for a cover, reaching his arm out across Shawn’s chest with Henson dropping down to the mat and making the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


KICK OUT!!!



Edge pulls himself back up to his knees, still not looking all there. He then stands back up slowly and crouches down to pull Michaels back up, but as HBK is being dragged up, he grabs Edge’s legs and sweeps them before he stands up fully. Edge panics as Michaels then pulls his legs around his waist and then CATAPULTS EDGE IN TO THE RING POST. . . . . Edge’s head hits the ring post, and he staggers back round with Shawn walking up to him, grabbing his arm and dragging him down to the mat, locking in THE CRIPPLER CROSSFACE. . . . . An enormous pop breaks out as Edge struggles like crazy in the crossface with Michaels making it extremely difficult for him, pulling hard on Edge’s chin. Chants of “Tap, tap, tap” ring out as Edge looks in danger, raising his arm in the air as he tries to save the match, but Michaels doesn’t give him an inch as he rips in to Edge’s face in order to make him tap.


Edge desperately tries to fight it and drag himself towards the ropes, but Michaels holds on tight with Edge looking in real danger of having to tap out. The crowd still scream for Edge to give it up, but he gives it one last push as he manages to pull himself across the mat, getting closer and closer to the ropes with Michaels trying frantically to keep the pressure on. Edge gets within touching distance of the bottom rope, and with Michaels struggling to keep him at bay, Edge reaches his arm out and grabs the bottom rope, causing the fans to boo heavily. Micky Henson tells Michaels to let the hold go, which he does in frustration as he stands back up, but he shocks everyone by pulling Edge away from the ropes and tries to apply the submission hold again. Edge fights it, keeping his head low and turning it to the side, and is somehow able to swing an elbow back in to the side of Shawn’s head, sending him round in a daze.


The champion turns back round to see Edge getting to his knees, and instead of going over to him, he decides to turn back and walk in to the corner. Henson checks if Edge is okay as he stands back up with HBK climbing up to the top rope, and as Edge stands back up with Henson behind him, HBK JUMPS OFF THE TOP FOR A DOUBLE AXE HANDLE. . . . . BUT EDGE SIDESTEPS IT WITH MICHAELS HITTING THE REFEREE INSTEAD. . . . . Edge drops to his knees in the process of dodging the move as Michaels looks in shock on the mat, seeing Henson take the fall. He forgets about Edge and tries to see if Henson is okay, but he doesn’t look to be moving with Shawn getting angry at himself. Shawn realises there’s not a lot he can do and stands back up, but as he turns round, he sees Edge on his feet and charging at him, nailing him with A SPEAR. . . . . EDGE HIT IT. . . . . IT’S ALL OVER! . . . . .


Edge looks delighted and scurries over to cover Shawn, forgetting about Henson being knocked out. Still holding on to HBK’s leg, he looks confused and turns round to see Henson laid out. He looks pissed and lets go of Shawn to move over and drag Henson across to count the fall, thinking he is capable of it before hooking Michaels’ leg again with Henson still out for the count. Edge loses it and doesn’t know what to do, but he gets a look in his eyes that suggest a light bulb has just gone off in his head. He stands back up and walks over to the ropes to climb through them and jump down to the floor below. He walks over to the timekeeper’s table and picks up a steal chair to heat from the crowd as they boo loudly with Edge tossing the chair in to the ring. Before he gets back in the ring, he ducks down against the apron and pulls out another chair from under the ring, then sliding that inside too, getting even more heat from the fans.


He then slides back inside, picking up the second chair and placing it under Shawn’s head. He then picks up the chair and stands over HBK’s body with the crowd frantically trying to warn Shawn. Edge just grins through it and lifts the chair up above his head with a look of satisfaction before bringing the chair crashing down for THE CON-CHAIR-TO. . . . . BUT SHAWN ROLLS TO THE SIDE. . . . . HBK rolls to safety and closer to the ropes with Edge hitting the other chair. Edge isn’t happy and kicks the chair on the ground away and under the bottom rope to the outside as Michaels crawls to the ropes and uses them to help him up. The Rated R Superstar locks him in his sights as he waits patiently for Shawn to turn round, walking slowly up behind him.


Again the crowd try to warn him, and as he turns round, EDGE LIFTS THE CHAIR UP AND THEN BRINGS IT CRASHING DOWN TOWARDS SHAWN’S HEAD. . . . . BUT MICHAELS DUCKS IT AGAIN WITH THE CHAIR REBOUNDING OFF THE ROPE IN TO EDGE’S SKULL. . . . . A massive pop breaks out as Edge drops the chair over the top rope and turns round in a daze as Michaels then nails him out of nowhere with a SUPER KICK. . . . . If there was a roof on The Citrus Bowl, it would be blown off right now as the fans go nuts with Michaels falling to his knees and hooking both of Edge’s legs, but Henson is only just coming round. Michaels yells at him, as do the crowd as he slowly crawls across and makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


3? . . . . .


NOOOOOOOOOOOO. . . . . THE MATCH CONTINUES!



Michaels can’t believe it as he sits up and drops his head down in to his hands, so disappointed as he thought he had it wrapped up there and then. As he sits back up, he sees Edge start to come round, and that gets HBK moving. He stands back up and walks in to the corner as he spots Edge trying to get back up on to his feet. Shawn stands in the corner and starts tuning up the band, getting the crowd going as they stomp their feet and clap in tandem with the World Champion as he gets ready to give Edge a taste of the SWEET CHIN MUSIC. . . . . Edge is close to standing back up as Michaels looks ready to explode and take Edge’s head off as he stamps his foot harder and harder on the mat, and as Edge gets up right, Michaels steps out of the corner and LIFTS HIS BOOT UP TOWARDS EDGE’S FACE. . . . . BUT EDGE DUCKS IT, SPINS MICHAELS ROUND, KICKS HIM IN THE GUT AND PLANTS HIM WITH THE EDGECUTION. . . . . Michaels looks in danger as his head is driven in to the mat. Edge rushes to turn Shawn over and go for a cover as Henson starts to count the shoulder. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


HBK KICKS OUT!


Shawn lives to fight another day by kicking out, leaving Edge angry with Henson. He stands up and gets in the still hurting official’s face, who tells him it was just a two count as Michaels crawls in to the corner behind Edge’s back. Edge then gives up the protest, seeing it’s pointless and turns round to see Michaels getting up in the corner. He focuses on HBK and seems to be stalking him for another SPEAR. . . . . Michaels leans up against the pads in the corner as Edge races out of the corner towards him, but Michaels stays in the corner and as Edge gets closer, he pulls himself up to the second rope and HITS A SUNSET FLIP AS EDGE GETS IN TO THE CORNER, ROLLING HIM FORWARD FOR A COVER. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .


NO!!!



Edge pushes off with his feet as both men then try to get up to their feet as quickly as they possibly can. They turn round in to each other with Michaels trying for a whip in to the corner, but Edge reverses it with Michaels hitting the pads hard, back first. Edge then charges at him, but Michaels lifts his boot up in to Edge’s face with the challenger turning round and staggering out of the corner while Michaels pulls himself up to the second rope. As Edge then turns back round to face Shawn, the World Champion dives off the second rope and TAKES EDGE DOWN WITH A CROSS BODY. . . . . Edge is able to roll it through though for a cover of his own. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .



HBK kicks out with both men hurrying back up again. Edge hits Michaels with a right and whips him in to the ropes, but as HBK comes back, he ducks under Edge’s arm, runs through and as he comes back the second time, he nails Edge with a FLYING FOREARM. . . . . The crowd like that, but he gets a bigger pop as he flips up to his feet. The crowd are going crazy as Michaels walks in to the corner and climbs to the top rope. With Edge down in the middle of the ring, HBK takes a giant leap off the top and LOOKS TO HIT THE HEARTBREAK ELBOW. . . . . BUT NO. . . . . EDGE ROLLS TO THE SIDE AND TO SAFETY. . . . . Boos ring out in The Citrus Bowl as Michaels crash lands on to the mat with Edge dodging the bullet. It takes both men a good ten seconds before they slowly make their way back up, and once they’re up, HBK takes a wild swing with his right hand at Edge, but the challenger ducks it with Michaels spinning right back in a 360 and into an INSIDE CRADLE. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


KICK OUT!!!



Both men get back up quickly with Michaels reversing an irish whip from Edge, and he then ducks his head, but as Edge comes back off the ropes, The Rated R Superstar swings his boot up in to Michaels’ head, snapping the champion’s head back up. Edge takes full advantage as Michaels spins round holding his face by planting him with the SIT DOWN HALF NELSON SLAM. . . . . Henson races down to his knees and makes the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .



Michaels gets his shoulder up, leaving Edge very agitated as he stands back up, looking like he’s ready to kill Shawn. The champ sits back up with Edge urging him up, and as Michaels gets to his knees, Edge seems to have had enough and walks over to him and tries to pull him up, but Michaels catches him by surprise by rolling him in to an INSIDE CRADLE. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


NO!!!



Edge kicks out this time with both men getting back up quickly with Edge kicking Michaels in the gut and whipping him hard in to the corner. Michaels back hits the pads hard as he then staggers out of the corner with Edge racing at him and connecting with A SPEAR. . . . . IT’S GOT TO BE OVER. . . . . NEW WORLD CHAMPION. . . . . Michaels hits the mat by the ropes with Edge shifting round to hook Michaels’ nearest leg with Henson making the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


FOOT ON THE ROPE!!!



Edge sits up in horror as he sees Michaels’ other foot firmly placed on the bottom rope, he can’t believe it as the crowd go nuts, cheering like mad as HBK stays in the match and holds on to his title. Edge stresses and looks like he’s about to self implode as he stands back up and grabs hold of Shawn’s feet to drag him away from the ropes, but HBK kicks him away with Edge falling back to the mat. He gets back up quickly and tries to stomp Shawn in the gut, but Shawn grabs his boot and then quickly grabs the other foot too. Shawn then stands up and sweeps Edge’s leg from under him and locks in THE SHARPSHOOTER. . . . . Michaels turns Edge on to his back in the centre of the ring, with the challenger looking like he has nowhere to go whatsoever as the crowd go crazy again. Edge screams out in pain as Michaels’ face shows complete determination, striving to make Edge tap by putting pressure on his lower back. It’s clear Edge is struggling as he is unable to move and continues to scream in absolute agony while HBK just pulls harder and harder on his legs. . . . .


“TAP, TAP, TAP, TAP”


The chant is deafening from the crowd as they try to force Edge to give it up, but he’s having none of it as it just seems to encourage him more to stay in the match as he fights it and starts to drag himself slowly away from the middle of the ring and closer to the ropes. Michaels doesn’t panic and just tries to apply more pressure to make him tap, but it’s not working as Edge pulls himself closer and closer to the ropes, and he gets within touching distance. . . . . BUT MICHAELS SITS UP SLIGHTLY AND PULLS EDGE BACK AWAY FROM THE ROPES. . . . . Massive cheers come from the crowd as Edge screams out yet again, not just in pain but in desperation and anger as Michaels puts him to the test, putting so much pressure on Edge’s back. Edge isn’t done though and continues to fight the hold, slowly dragging himself back towards the ropes with Michaels doing everything he can to fend him off, but it’s not working as Edge gets so close and then reaches out to grab hold of the bottom rope.


The boos ring out as Henson tells HBK to let it go, which he only does at the count of four. Henson tells him to back away as Edge holds on to the ropes for dear life, then uses them to slowly pick himself back up as HBK stands back as told. Just as Edge stands up with his back to him, Michaels walks over and tries to pull him away, but Edge elbows him in the head, knocking him back a few paces. Michaels staggers away holding his face, but shakes it off quickly as he turns back looking for more. Edge turns round and kicks Michaels away with a boot to the face, again sending Michaels back tracking and holding on to his face. Edge takes a little breather as Michaels staggers in to the middle of the ring, and as he turns back round, Edge charges at him, but Shawn sees him coming, leans back AND TAKES EDGE’S HEAD OFF WITH SOME SWEET CHIN MUSIC. . . . . The crowd go nuts as Michaels just collapses in a heap on top of Edge with Micky Henson dropping to his knees and making the count. . . . .


1 . . . . .


. . . . .


2 . . . . .


. . . . .


. . . . . 3


. . . . . IT’S ALL OVER!



WINNER: By pinfall, and still World Heavyweight Champion, Shawn Michaels @ 26.15.


AFTERMATH: “Sexy Boy” blasts out with the crowd giving Michaels a standing ovation as he too gets back up to his feet, albeit slowly. Henson walks over to the ropes to collect the World Heavyweight Championship belt before walking back over and handing it over to Shawn, who looks very tired as he raises his belt in to the air as fireworks are set off all around The Citrus Bowl. Michaels takes a look up in to the sky to watch them before walking in to every corner and posing for the crowd with the title belt being lifted in to the air to a huge pop from all four corners of the ring as Henson helps Edge to the back, leaving Michaels to celebrate his victory in front of the delighted Orlando faithful.


Michael Cole: HE’S DONE IT. . . . . Shawn Michaels has retained the World Heavyweight Championship tonight at Wrestlemania with a truly show stopping performance. . . . . Edge can have no complaints tonight Coach, the show stopper came here tonight with a point to prove to his challenger, and he delivered

The Coach: Michael, I have to admit, Shawn Michaels proved a point tonight, showing the tens of thousands here tonight as well as the millions watching at home, that he is indeed Mr. Wrestlemania

Michael Cole: He sure did Coach, and what a way to bring this year’s Wrestlemania to an end. We hope you enjoyed it as much as everyone here in The Citrus Bowl has. . . . . Thanks for joining us and good night from Orlando


***CLOSING VIDEO***
“Thanks for the Memories” by Fall Out Boy

  • • The opening pyro display
  • • Matt Hardy & Shelton Benjamin making their way to the ring
  • • Shelton hitting a flying neckbreaker on Matt
  • • Shelton’s sunset flip powerbomb on Matt
  • • Matt dodging The Pay Dirt and hitting the Twist of Fate
  • • Matt celebrating his victory with the United States title raised high in the air
  • • Beth Phoenix & Victoria walking down to the ring
  • • Victoria’s slingshot somersault leg drop on Beth
  • • Beth dropping Victoria with a gorilla press slam
  • • The Glamazon running in to a savote kick
  • • Victoria escaping Beth’s chicken wing lift for The Widow’s Peak
  • • Victoria holding her newly won Womens Championship
  • • MVP hitting Rey with the ladder
  • • Rey’s springboard dropkick to knock MVP off the ladder
  • • Chris Jericho jumping up and hitting a Codebreaker on Lashley, taking him off the ladder
  • • Jericho suplexing Burke off the top of the ladder
  • • MVP knocking Kennedy & then Jericho off the ladder with the smaller one
  • • MVP climbing up the ladder and claiming the briefcase
  • • Matt Sydal’s springboard double dropkick on Chavo Guerrero & Kenny Dykstra
  • • Sydal’s Cyclorama on Michael Shane
  • • Chavo’s jumping tornado DDT on Kenny
  • • Shane’s super kick that Dykstra ducked, hitting Sydal instead
  • • Sydal hitting the Shooting Star Press on Dykstra
  • • Chavo going for the Frog Splash with Kenny getting his knees up and Shane connecting with the super kick
  • • Shane lifting his new title in to the air
  • • Jeff Hardy & CM Punk walking down to the ring
  • • Jeff hitting the Whisper in the Wind
  • • Punk’s split leg moonsault on to Jeff and the ladder
  • • Punk’s suicide dive in to the steel chair shot
  • • Jeff spraying the fire extinguisher at Punk
  • • Punk stopping Jeff’s head on to the steel chair
  • • Punk hitting the GTS and the ref calling for the bell
  • • Punk grinning on the ramp
  • • John Morrison nailing Brian Kendrick with a step up enziguri
  • • Kid Kash with the Kash on Delivery on Paul London
  • • Kendrick hitting the Sliced Bread #2 on Jamie Noble
  • • The double suicide dive from London & Kendrick
  • • Noble turning round in to the C4
  • • The Hall of Fame inductees standing on the stage
  • • The Undertaker & Umaga making their way to the ring
  • • Taker’s running DDT on Umaga
  • • Umaga splashing Taker with the steel chair on top of Taker’s chest
  • • Taker chokeslamming Umaga off the apron
  • • The leg drop through the announce table by the dead man
  • • Taker choking Umaga with the rope
  • • Taker’s signature pose at the end of the match
  • • Evolution & The McMahon’s walking down to the ring
  • • JBL running in to a spear from Batista
  • • Ric Flair going for the figure four but being knocked in to the referee
  • • Shane McMahon leaping for the Coast to Coast, but getting speared by Batista
  • • JBL’s Clothesline from Wall Street on Batista, turning round in to a double A spinebuster from Triple H
  • • Vince smashing Triple H in the back with a steel chair
  • • Eric Bischoff running down to the ring
  • • Vince tapping out to the figure four
  • • Evolution posing in the ring
  • • John Cena, Kane & Randy Orton walking to the ring
  • • Kane’s falling powerbomb on Orton
  • • Cena putting the STFU on Kane
  • • Orton’s RKO on Cena
  • • The Orton Clutch being applied to Cena
  • • Kane kicking out of the RKO
  • • Kane chokeslamming Cena and then hitting the Tombstone Piledriver
  • • Orton sliding in too late to see Bearer putting the title on Kane
  • • Shawn Michaels & Edge making their way to the ring
  • • Michaels’ hitting the Lou Thesz press on Edge
  • • The Asai moonsault to Edge on the outside
  • • Michaels’ elbow drop through the announce table
  • • HBK catapulting Edge in to the ringpost and following up with the Crippler Crossface
  • • Edge spearing Michaels and stressing out with no referee to make the count
  • • Edge going for the con-chair-to but missing
  • • Edge trying to hit Michaels with the chair but hitting the ropes with the chair rebounding in to his face and turning in to a super kick
  • • Edge spearing Michaels again but seeing the foot on the rope
  • • HBK with the sharpshooter
  • • Edge kicking Michaels away from the ropes but running in to the super kick
  • • Michaels posing with the title as the fireworks go off
***END OF SHOW***


:ns***PLEASE DON’T BE AN IDIOT AND POST ANY ONE LINE SPOILERS BELOW

I’LL HAVE TO :gun: ANYONE WHO DOES THAT. . . I’M SURE LEGEND WILL LET ME SINCE SPURS HAVE PICKED UP AT LAST!!***



 
#885 ·
D-K-L's Raw Review

Now its great seeing the new Mr. Money in the Bank kicking off the show. Nice little pre match promo from him, just what you would expect from him. This was a good match to open the show with two talented youngsters, and the right man won. MVP using the briefcase is cool as all the MITB holders use it to their advantage and it means Kennedy doesn't lose too much credibility, and I'm sure MVP will be winning many matches clean in the coming weeks. Good match and MVP gets a big win, now who's going to SD?!

Wow Chris Jericho is going to Smackdown then, thats a pretty good move. He should be involved in some interesting feuds on SD, I wonder if you have a Jericho/HBK angle planned in the future?

Didn't expect Orton to come down, I wonder if that punt will lead to anything. I like this intense, twisted Orton. It was a good little promo to show Orton's frustration and thats one hell of a match announcement, that should be awesome.

Now its clear that you are a big fan of the UK pack as they've had one hell of a push recently, so its no surprise that it continued here. Now I don't like Londrick losing to them really as they have come off rather weak recently. I do like the UK Pack but I like Londrick just as much, but I guess one of the teams has to win. Actually, just read the aftermatch, looks like you are splitting them up so I get why they lost again now.

The Truth and Mickie to Smackdown then! Killings hasn't done that much on Raw really but you've broken the Killing/Cryme Time thing up. Mickie moving is interesting, I don't know what you have in mind there, one brands worth of divas matches is enough for me. I guess more divas will be going to SD then.

This was a good little seg with Punk and Bischoff setting up a very interesting match, I get the feeling he might be losing which I wouldn't like.

Another good segment here to allow Bischoff to make another huge match, should be good and i'm sure the McMahon's will be out for revenge.

Yeah it looks like you will be moving more divas to Smackdown and creating a new title as you did say that Mickie has nothing to do. This was another decent segment showing the heat between these divas.

A good win for Hardy here and it looked fairly easy. The right man won again as Hardy is the US Champ and Marrella isn't a great wrestler with this gimmick, Raw really needs a win though.

Burke to Smackdown! I like this a lot as it suggests you have plans for Burke which is awesome. I hope his recent release has made you want to do even more with him as he is very talented and one of my favourites, i'm just resisting the temptation to bring him in before BFG LOL.

Nice promo with HBK and Evolution, just the type of segment you would expect with these guys. I liked how it was quite serious at the start but you added a little humour at the end.

This was a very good way to introduce Ted DiBiase Jr, by giving him that title it gives him immediate credibility. I liked what he had to say at the start, he seemed to drift from heel to face though but he's a heel which is good. Easy win for him which puts him over, and Maryse is a good manager for him.

Regal to Raw!? How is this going to work? I loved it though with him spitting his tea out LOL. This should be very interesting and its good having a big draft change like this.

Looks like a Punk/Hardy feud is in the works, should be awesome. One of them may be drafted then. Good little interview.

Well if Punk was going to drop the belt to anyone in this match Kofi was the right guy, I look forward to his title reign. Hardy costing Punk is great and we have that feud for sure now, I can see Punk going to SD now. I remember you teasing a Kofi/Cody feud over Kelly before Mania and I think we will get it now, should be great as the jelusly angle normally works well.

Now I see why Kenny dropped the CW title! I can see you have big plans for him and I think he will do well on Raw. Ric Flair to Raw is interesting as well, its a good move to allow the McMahon/Evolution feud to continue.

Regal as executive assistant? Don't know what to make of that, could lead to some interesting storylines, I could also see him returning to wrestling though and rejecting it. I wonder who will replace him on SD as GM then? THE COACH!!!

I love how this feud is so intense after only one night. This should be even better than Punk/Jeff tbh.

I was thinking this match would be the main event but I guess not. The match was good and filled with top stars and I was actually quite surprised that The Undertaker won. I would've thought he'd be the last person to get the win tbh as the others needed wins more IMO, with Orton chasing the title and the others being champs. But I guess it gives Orton another reason to be pissed, and HBK and Taker is one hell of team. It makes sense actually as Orton and Kane are not supposed to be a good team with their rivalry going on.

Two huge drafts here with Phoenix going to Smackdown, I'm quite happy actually as the Victoria/Beth thing wouldn't be able to go much further. Punk to SD is great now so we'll get Hardy/Punk. What I see now is Punk costing Hardy the US title to return the favour, hopefully when Hardy is defending against Burke or even Benjamin.

Now this potential feud interests me, Cena would be the perfect guy to put over Dykstra. You would expect Cena to come out on top, but I know you see Dykstra's potential and I don't think you have much planned for Cena, so I see a few sneaky wins for Dykstra if this does turn into a feud.

Now I see why this is the main event, you wanted the Batista draft to end the show. Good match by the looks of it and a DQ is probably right, but man I can imagine that spear nearly killing Vince. I thought for a minute there Triple H was going to be drafted to Smackdown with everyone blaming Batista for causing it, but yeah putting Evoltion together is a good move to allow this feud to continue. Great end to the show.

I like the minor changes you've made as well, happy that Layla has followed Burke and Raw has got some good talent with Finlay and Wang Yang. Sunny released I kinda like as I don't like her really and Punk doesn't need her. I wonder where this leaves Colt. LOL Leticia wasn't on Smackdown long was she? And some divas to SD makes it seem like you are building a diva division there too, not too sure what to make of it really as one is enough for me, but at least Phoenix and Mickie are talented and McCool to a certain extent.

Overall Nige it was a top show, very entertaining as usual and there was only a few things I didn't like. Promos were quality again and the matches were pretty good too, you've made some good changes and you've set up some interesting feuds. I look forward to Smackdown now which should be great.
 
#896 ·
THE CRUNK IN YO SYSTEM REVIEW:

~ Before I even get started on Smackdown, let me say that I skimmed Wrestlemania and what I read of it was amazing. Raw was also good witht he draft and the aftermath.

~ Good opening segment here. I like Shawn Michaels as champion. He's such a good worker, he never disappoints in big match situations, and he can tell a story in the ring like nobody else, so I'm looking forward to his reign being a great one. Michaels thanking the fans is awesome, very face. And here comes Edge! C'mon rematch clause! Edge says the better man won? Wow. Good stuff here as Edge shows him moment of respect for Michaels, but slips right back into heel mode to demand his rematch. I knew since he asked for a rematch on the show it wouldn't happen on the show lol. Pretty good swerve though with Linda coming out as the GM replacement to put Edge in a #1 Contender's match with The Undertaker. Now the main event is set and Michaels' title defense will own no matter who wins.

~ I don't really know what's been going on with Michael Shane and Shawn Michaels in your BTB, but I like that they are interacting. It's also nice to see that Shawn keeps Shane at a distance when it comes to the special perks that coudl come with being related to a superstar, but still congratulates him on his Cruiserweight title win. I'm curious to see where this goes as (what I'm assuming is) a heel Shane leaves the interview smiling because Shawn acknowledges his good work.

~ The Mickie James interaction with Linda seemed kinda like filler, but I guess it served its purpose by setting up for a later match. AAE is always good. His bit seemed kinda like filler as well though as all it really did was set up for his leave.

~ Killings defeating Jordan was ok. Nothing really exciting there, but it was a good way to establish Killings on Smackdown. I don't know where exactly your going with that match as there was no talk from the commentators or any sort of action from the wrestlers before or after the match, but if the purpose was just to introduce Killings to the blue brand, then it did its job.

~ Good win for Mickie here, looks like she doesn't have to worry much about those new divas. I see this feud continuing simply because both women looked surprised by Mickie's victory. No complaints from me here, but then again I've never had a complaint when talking about Mickie James or Beth Pheonix ;).

~ I'm not sure what to make of the Sydal/Jeter interaction. I like that they're being used and moving forward in a storyline, I'll just wait until I see the match to comment.

~ No complaints about the Matt Hardy promo.

~ A lot happened in the tag match. Burchill and Smith coming down for commentary was good, and the Masters of the Mat (which is a great team IMO) returning was good. I didn't feel like there was enough emphasis on Sydal and him really nto caring about the match. I know you pointed out that he was reserved on the way to the ring, and shrugged off the loss after the match, but during the match we got no indication that he was not fully into it. Plus the ECW attack at the end on Haas and Masters was good as it reopens their feud, and pointing out that The UK Pack looked impressed kinda adds them to the equation.

~ My thoughts about a change of heart in Michael Shane are furthered by his interaction with Edge. This could open up a program between those two or, at the very least, make the Cruiserweight champion Shane look important for mingling with top talent like Michaels and Edge.

~ The Burke turn was great. I love MVP as Mr. MITB. I love him coming out and being the arrogant prick that he is. I love Elijah Burke turning on him. I love the idea of a feud between these two. Very very good segment, no complaints whatsoever.

~ NEW CHAMPION! Shleton as the US Champion is good. Perfect way to blow off Shleton/Hardy and begin Hardy/Punk. I'm loving heel Punk, especially heel Punk feuding with Matt Hardy. I know he had a match with Jeff at your Wrestlemania, and when I get time I may go back and read what led up to it, but Punk feuding with Matt has epic written all over it. Oh, and Shannon Moore as Shelton's urm..."Shellion" was good too :)

~ I liked the main event, but I didn't really dig the finish. There's no DQ for a chokeslam though a table? And a count out victory doesn't exactly establish the Deadman as a worthy contender for the title. But with that out of the way, UNDERTAKER V. MICHAELS!!!!! I see this being a long term feud as it's WAYYYY to epic for just Backlash.

OVERALL: Aside from a few minor gripes, this was a good all around show. I love this fed. Your storylines are progressing well. Your matches were great. Some of your backstage stuff seemed like filler, but every show can't be perfect, so that is expected sometimes. 8/10
 
#903 ·
Cheers for those comments man. The debut of The Badstreet Boys meant that The DiBiase Brothers had to lose the match, and they have been more like background guys behind Ted Jr before he got fired. This was their first night on their own, as they said in their promo. Both teams will be developing together, it's just the start for both of them.

Brie Bella's position on Smackdown IRL was going to influence some people, but don't forget this thread is about 8 months behind. Roucka won the number one contendership the week before and needs to build momentum. There aren't a lot of divas on the roster, so the options are far more limited. I'm not that interested in pushing Brie right now, and i haven't all the way through the time i've been writing FCW, where i have with Roucka. If you've not seen previous shows, it's obvious that you would be having the thoughts that you are.

Without going too far, i love The Empire too. It's not because they're British or because Stu Sanders is from Preston like me. The UK relevance is a big factor as i can push that as a main part of their character, and there's the Katie Lea influence too. They have a big part to play in this thread in the near future.
 
#912 ·
D-K-L's Raw Review

Great opeing promo, this was really well written and it was a good way to start off the show with Batista and Flair being drafted last week. I was just waiting for the interuption though, and I think it's great that you are continuing this feud as it was built up too big to just end with one match, and there is more you can do with this. Everyone was in character and the idea of the rematch being a non sanctioned match is great, there should be some real brutal stuff going on in the rematch now. The line from JBL was great, he really crossed the line there but it did so well to put the intensity back into the feud. I would've prefered The McMahon's to run away, but the beat down was pretty good too.

Evolution being kicked out is interesting, you have kinda been hinting a Bischoff heel turn for a while now, but I like how he is now tbh as being totally impartial has worked well.
The Regal segment was interesting, Regal getting all the power for a week should be great, and I wonder what his suggestion is. I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes.

Good win for Finlay on his first night, he needed a good win and he got it. He needed his shillelagh again though, would've prefered him to use the Celtic Cross, but its typical Finlay.

I am really liking this Cody/Kofi jelousy storyline so far, it seems to be progressing well and it's not long before we see Cody go heel fully. I thought it would last a little longer before they realised Cody was a bit jelous, but it was a good segment.

Nice win for Natalya, Phoenix being drafted is going to allow her to really shine on her own, and although we've seen matches between her and the champ before Mania a feud should be good.

Huge main event announced here, should be very good but we know who's winning. I like that Regal got to make and announce the match too, makes him look important and not just an assistant.

The little pre match promo from DiBiase was great, I expect he'll be getting mic time every week as its doing great for developing his character. Impressive win for DiBiase over Eugene, and the fact taht it was a title match really helps to make the title look important. DiBiase Jr. has been awesome so far in this thread, you are building him up very nicely.

Cryme Time knocking out Carlito was cool LOL. Just the type of segment you would expect from them and the knock-down price line was funny. You do really well in building lower/mid card feuds.

That Kane/Cena banner looks great btw.

The Orton interview was very good, in character and he made some great points. I liked him saying that Kennedy was just in the wrong place at the wrong time too, clears it up properly. Wouldn't rule out a feud between them when he returns though after Orton takes on Kane. Very good interview and a rematch with Kane now seems even more appealing.

Good win for Cody, not sure if he really needed a match tbh as I would've prefered a win for Kofi to further establish himself as the champ, I guess you needed them out for the aftermath, and a win for Cody makes him look like a credible challenger for Kofi's title in the future. The aftermatch was very well done, again I am really liking this.

This was a great promo to set up the match at Backlash. Really liked what Miz and Morrison had to say, I wanted to hear from Kendrick about what happened last week but the brawl was good. The Backlash match should be great, I hope you at least write the endings of the matches as you have some awesome matches planned. M+M are taking the titles for sure, and it seems like you've picked Kendrick for the singles oush afterwards which is the right decision. Both are equally great in the ring, but Kendrick has the edge for promos and personality.

I liked the confrontation between Cena and Dykstra again, this feud has the makings of a very interesting feud. I liked what you did with Laticia and Cena, realistic despite it being cheesy. Kenny is going to come out of this looking strong I reckon.

The main event was really good, it got a lot of time for TV which was great with it being a title match. Cena looked like a real threat in this match which is great for him and a good title defence for Kane is just what he needs to estalish himself as the top guy. The ending was done very well with Kenny getting involved, slighlty predictable but a very good ending to develop the storyline. The aftermath was great too with Orton nailing the RKO, but Kane is again looking strong by sitting up.

Overall Nige it was once again a very entertaining show. Promos were once again very good, so were matches and Backlash looks like it will be great. I'm looking forward to next week for all the fallout.
 
#946 ·
The "CRUNK IN YO SYSTEM" Review:

~ Orton opening is always good. He cuts a darn good promo, and this one was no different. I'm not gonna lie, Kane is not my favorite, and this title feud is not one that I would personally pick. However, you're doing great with it. This segment was great, especially the RKO on Bearer. I expected fire to shoot up from the stage as Orton tried to escape lol. The aftermath was very well done, with Orton "running like a scolded dog" (thanks JR), and Kane silently watching the medics attend to Bearer. Very strong opening.

~ Good match here between The Colons and Cryme Time. The Colons getting the cheap win was definatley the right way to go here as Cryme Time will now want revenge and the feud will continue.

~ Awesome backstage segment with Codefi and Kelly Kelly. I really like this storyline, it's the classic friend v. friend angle, and I really think you're doing it well. I loved how you played Kelly's match into it as well, and I expect that this will somehow continue during her match.

~ The Marellina segment was good as well. Santino was very in character, drifting off with the mention of Melina taking showers. I liked Melina too, especially her saying that she'd been having nightmare and taking multiple showers because of Hornswoggle. I don't rteally see anyhting long-term developing here, but it's still fun. The China line was gret too btw.

~ Uh-oh...Kane is PISSED! I don't feel like the beatdowns will end here...

~ Very good pre-match stuff with Codefi. I can't stress enough how much I'm liking this feud. Kelly Kelly had a good first match against Melina too. I love how you managed to continue both storylines with Finlay/Marella and Codefi at the same time. Brilliant!

~ The Evolution backstage segment was also very well done. From the intimidation of Regal, to the going against Bischoff's wishes (which I think will further turn Bischoff and Evolution against each other).

~ The Kendrick/Miz match was basically a squash. I would've liked to have seen more from Miz, but I understand wanting to make Londrick look like gold going into their title match. I saw a couple small details that hint to something big, but I'll keep those quiet to see if anyone else noticed them.

~ Wow...The McMahons didn't liek the announcement. Good stuff here. LOL @ "English fairy". Very intense stuff from the McMahons, the match later should be insane.

~ i liked the interaction between Dykstra and Cena. Good set-up for the tag team match. Regal is getting a lot of screen time tonight, but that kinda makes since seeing as how everything is kinda going crazy without Bischoff there. Perfect way to do this match. Cena and Dykstra battle into the crowd, so neither man loses any credibility by losing. DiBiase looks like a million bucks (no pun intended), and gets the win. Finlay and Santino continue thier beef...awesome!

~ Good Natalya promo. Kinda generic, but she is pretty new, so that is to be expected. Santino is getting a lot of TV time as well. You must have something big planned for this.

~ Great stuff here with Randy Orton beating down Kane and stealing the title. Some may complain that Kane looks weak here after beating people down all night, but Orton did use weapons, and the epic punt kick to the head, so I think what you did here was awesome.

~ The main event was kinda short, but still well done. The McMahons have the momentum for now, how will Evolution retaliate? Perfect way to end the show with the reader wondering where you'll go from here.

OVERALL: This show was darn near perfect. It kept me on the edge of my seat nearly all the way through. The storylines progressed well, each feud got its own time to shine. Everything fell into place perfectly. My only...ONLY problem was the overuse of Santino. I was with you up until the Kane match, I felt that was a tad too much Santino considering he had already appeared in two matches earlier, once as Melina's backup and once to interfere. Other than that, this show was amazing. 9.5/10
 
#1,212 ·
WWE King of the Ring 2008
Sunday June 15th 2008
Live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California




*Opening Video*
“Light It Up” by Rev Theory
Images: Bret Hart defeating Razor Ramon, Mr. Perfect, and then Bam Bam Bigelow to win the first King of the Ring in 1993. Owen Hart’s crowning the year later, followed by “Stonecold” Steve Austin stunning Marc Mero and Jake Roberts in 1996 to win the tournament, and then his famous 3:16 speech. The crowning of Triple H in 1997 is highlighted next, followed by Edge’s in 2001. We are then shown all eight of this year’s participants celebrating after their qualifying matches in this order; Rey Mysterio, Kofi Kingston, Matt Sydal, Elijah Burke, Shelton Benjamin, Kenny Dykstra, Chavo Guerrero & Santino Marella. We then see Elijah Burke winning the fatal fourway match on Smackdown, pinning Chavo Guerrero and ending with Rey Mysterio & Kofi Kingston celebrating after their victory over Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella from Raw last week.

Voiceover: “It’s a night that holds a special place in many hearts, and tonight those hearts will race once again as eight gladiators compete for the chance to be called King. . . For many it’s seen as a chance to fulfil a dream, but these men are under no illusions as they know this ordeal is no dream. . . For those that will fight for the prestigious right will have to battle through three excruciating matches that lie in front of them with only of them at the end of this historic night being able to call himself King.”


{Cut to Ringside}

***Pyro***
***Pyro***
***Pyro***
***Pyro***​

The camera circles the arena, capturing lots of extremely pumped WWE fans before cutting to the Smackdown announce table, consisting of Michael Cole & Matt Striker.

Michael Cole: Welcome everybody to the WWE King of the Ring, live on pay-per-view for the first time in six years, and Matt you can feel the electricity inside the Staples Center t’night.

Matt Striker: It’s incredible Michael. There’s an intense aura of anticipation as you would expect to mark this historic occasion.

Michael Cole: And here to join us as ever are our Raw colleagues, J.R. and Jerry “The King” Lawler.

The camera cuts to the Raw announce table.

Jim Ross: Good evening folks, and just like our Smackdown counterparts, me an’ The King are very excited to be here t’night.

Jerry Lawler: EXCITED? . . . Excited’s not the word J R. You need a whole other word to describe this.

Jim Ross: You’ll have to excuse The King, but tonight indeed promises to be one hell of a night as not only will we crown a new King. . . sorry King. Three titles will also be decided, including the WWE Championship when the “The Charismatic Enigma” Jeff Hardy goes one on one with “The Big Red Machine” Kane in what promises to be a slobber knocker after what happened on Raw this past Monday night. . .

“S.O.S.” blasts out to a big pop with Kofi Kingston, the Intercontinental Champion walking out to the stage with a real look of excitement on his face, followed out by Kelly Kelly. Kofi’s pyro then goes off and he walks down the ramp with the glamorous yet casual Kelly, slapping hands as they both make their way down to the ring.

Jim Ross: What a way to start the show, with the electric Kofi Kingston. . . Just a few moments ago, literally seconds before we went live, we were finally advised of the how the tournament will shape up t’night.


*Video Promo*


Jim Ross: As you’ll see, we’re about to see Raw’s Intercontinental Champion take on Smackdown’s United States Champion in Shelton Benjamin.

Michael Cole: That’s right J R, and what a way to kick things off.

Jim Ross: Oh absolutely.

Kofi hands over his belt to the referee just as “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Me” beams its way through the speakers of the Staples Center with the confident looking “Gold Standard” Shelton Benjamin walking out to the stage. The United States Champion is booed as he walks down to the ring, still looking confident.

Matt Striker: I don’t believe we could have started with a more competitive match. Both these men are highly talented young athletes as well as being champions of their respective brands. . . We could well see the winner emerge from this match right here.

Michael Cole: You might be right. We all know Shelton Benjamin has no problem with pulling out all the stops to win, and he just escaped unscathed from the scramble match at Judgment Day three weeks back. . . However, Kofi has been on one hell of a roll on Raw if I’m right J R?

Jim Ross: Oh no doubt Michael. Kofi’s one of Raw’s most promising young stars, and I’m sure he’s going to enjoy a night off from having to deal with Cody Rhodes. . . I think we might just see Kofi at his very best t’night. . . What a match this promises to be.


{Cut to Ringside}


***The Opening Match***



King of the Ring ¼ Final
WWE Intercontinental Champion, Kofi Kingston w/Kelly Kelly
vs WWE United States Champion, Shelton Benjamin​
ENDING: Kofi picks himself back up with Shelton standing up in front of him, eagerly waiting to pounce. He does so with a right hand, but Kofi blocks it and nails him with a shot of his own. He then hits him with a couple of hard forearm shots to the face before whipping The Gold Standard in to the ropes, and as Benjamin comes back, Kofi jumps up in to the air and nails him with a HIGH ANGLE REVERSE ELBOW. . . . . The fans cheer that, and Kofi looks to gain some serious momentum, hurrying to feet with Shelton doing likewise and walking in to a standing dropkick from the Jamaican Sensation.


That brings another pop from the crowd, and Kofi keeps them going as he stands up, runs back in to the ropes and comes back to hit the United States Champion in the chest with a DOUBLE LEG DROP. . . . . That looks to have taken the wind right of Benjamin’s sail, and Kofi decides to try for a cover, hooking both legs as the referee drops to the canvas to make a count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Shelton kicks out comfortably with Kofi leaning back straight away looking the slightest bit disappointed but not surprised. He then stands back up with Shelton trying to get to his knees, so Kofi gives him a helping hand.


He pulls him up and whips him in to the corner with Benjamin’s back hitting the pads. The Intercontinental Champion then runs in at him and jumps on to the second rope, getting a pop from the crowd and a momentary applause from Kelly before he starts unloading with right hands on Shelton. The Gold Standard reacts though and manages to shove Kofi away and down to the mat with quite a soft landing on his back. Shelton takes the small amount of time to recover, but as Kofi gets back up, he runs right back in at Benjamin, but he is able to step to the side and out of the corner as Kingston runs right in to the pads.


The predatory Benjamin then slips behind Kofi and grabs him around the waist, then tosses him back with a RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . That was quite a suplex from Shelton with Kingston landing hard on his back and neck, but all it brings is a smirk from Benjamin. He then stands back up with Kofi struggling on to one knee. Benjamin walks over to the ropes as the concerned Kelly looks on the outside, seeing Shelton step through the ropes on to the apron. He turns round to face the ring and holds on to the top rope as Kofi tries to steady himself, and as he turns round, Shelton comes to life and continues the assault, looking to level Kingston with a SPRINGBOARD CLOTHESLINE. . . . .

Kingston looks up though and rolls underneath Shelton in a ball. He rushes up to his feet and runs in to the ropes, runs back as Shelton turns round, bends down to lift Kofi off his feet and on to his shoulders to plant him with one hell of a SAMOAN DROP. . . . . Benjamin sits up with a cocky smile on his face, clearly thinking it’s over as he then turns round and makes a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Kelly looks very relieved on the outside, but Shelton is stunned, sitting up and staring at the ref in shock. The ref reassures him it was only a two count, and Benjamin just shakes his head in disbelief.

As Kofi starts to signs of movement, Shelton decides to get himself moving too, returning to his feet and urging the Intercontinental Champion back up to his. It takes Kofi a while longer, but as he manages to stand up, Shelton pounces straight away, kicking him in the gut and grabbing his head. He pulls Kofi’s head between his legs and then lifts him up in to the air, turning towards the corner, but as he looks to powerbomb him on to the pads, Kofi slips free and down Shelton’s back. Kofi lands on his feet and turns round right away with the shocked Shelton turning back to face him, only to fall victim to the TROUBLE IN PARADISE. . . . .


Kofi hit his finisher, and Shelton falls right by the ropes and rolls under the bottom rope to the floor below. Kofi sits up looking frustrated as he could have had the chance to get a pinfall, but the referee starts a count with Shelton barely moving on the outside in front of the announce tables, and feet away from Kelly. As Kingston then stands back up behind the referee counting Shelton out, we hear boos break out in the stands. The camera then cuts to Cody Rhodes racing down the ramp in casual clothes. He slides in under the bottom rope and walks right up behind Kofi.


Kelly sees it and jumps on to the apron, trying to tell the ref what’s going on, but he just tells her to get back down with the count now broken. She continues to argue, allowing the intense Cody the chance to spin Kofi round and plant him with the SILVER SPOON DDT. . . . . A ton of boos ring around the Staples Center as Cody sharply slides back out of the ring with Kelly furiously protesting while Shelton sits up. Cody looks across and smiles with a huge look of satisfaction on his face, angering Kelly, who then gives up the fight and steps down off the apron, allowing the ref to resume his count. Cody turns round and walks to the back, pleased with his night’s work as Shelton pulls himself up the apron with the count getting to four.


Kofi then starts to come round, turning on to his side with Shelton now climbing back on to the apron, hugging it instead of standing on it. Having broken the ref’s count after sliding under the ropes, he then stands back up using the ropes for support as Kofi struggles back to a vertical base. Shelton then watches on, biding his time as the dazed Kofi then turns round to see Benjamin running at him, and the United States Champion connects with the PAY DIRT. . . . . Boos ring out as the crowd don’t like what they’ve seen moments ago in addition to this now as Shelton hooks the leg for a cover with Kelly praying for a miracle on the outside, watching closely as the ref counts Kofi’s shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, Shelton Benjamin @ 13.38.

AFTERMATH: “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Me” hits to heat from the crowd as Shelton stands back up, getting his arm raised with a massive smile on his face. He walks over to collect his United States Championship as it’s passed to him while Kelly gets in the ring to check over on Kofi, who starts to come round, looking fairly groggy. Benjamin turns back and walks past him, smirking at him in the process before stepping through the ropes and stepping down to the floor. He then walks up the ramp in a good mood as the United States Championship rests proudly on his shoulder with Kofi then sitting up, looking very angry with Kelly leaning beside him.

Jim Ross: DAMN YOU CODY RHODES. . . WHAT A NO GOOD S.O.B. THAT KID IS.

Matt Striker: Well J R, I can’t disagree with that glowing assessment of the young man in question, but the bottom line is that Shelton Benjamin is through to the semi finals later on t’night.

Jim Ross: I’m sorry, but he shouldn’t be. . . If it wasn’t for Cody Rhodes stickin’ his nose in Kofi Kingston’s business once again, this might ‘ave turned out a whole lot differently.

Jerry Lawler: Don’t worry about Cody J R, he’s gonna get his at Vengeance in two weeks. . . After screwing Kofi over t’night, you can be sure Kofi will be out for revenge when he gets his hands on Cody inside that steel cage.

Jim Ross: That’s a good point King. I just hope Cody gets what’s comin’ to ‘im.

Michael Cole: Well we’ll find out if that’s going to be the case in two week’s time, but all that matters now is that Shelton Benjamin has advanced to the semi finals and finds himself just one match away from the final itself.


***Video Promo***

Clips of John Cena, The Undertaker, CM Punk, Kane, Randy Orton, Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Batista, Jeff Hardy, Edge & Rey Mysterio hitting their finishers are shown.

Voiceover: The superstars of Raw and Smackdown will collide upon the return of one of wrestling’s most historic shows. . . WWE Superstars. . . Superstars will return to your television screens with some of the biggest names in sports entertainment today. . . Superstars will premiere Saturday 21st June, in just six days on WGN America at 5pm Central with a special guest performance from Flo Rida. . . Whatever you do, don’t miss the return of WWE Superstars, only on WGN America, replayed Sunday and Wednesday nights at 9pm.





{Cut Backstage}

Cody Rhodes is walking through the production area looking pretty pleased with himself with the curtain in the background, but he then stops dead as we hear a clapping sound. The camera then zooms out and pans to the right to show Eric Bischoff standing there, staring right at Cody. Bischoff doesn’t look happy at all, and Cody’s grin isn’t as wide as it was before.

Eric Bischoff: Well congratulations on marking the occasion by ruining the first match of the night. . . You know, I would ask if you’re pleased with yourself, but it seems that there’s not really much point.

Cody Rhodes: Oh I’m so sorry that I’ve ruined this whole extravaganza Eric. Just how will I sleep tonight?

Bischoff stares angrily at Cody, but the youngster doesn’t seem to mind.

Cody Rhodes: See Eric, all I did was make a statement. . .

Eric Bischoff: . . . Oh, and what was that? That you’re a gutless, selfish. . .

Cody Rhodes: . . . Whoa, I’d stop right there if I were you. You might be the boss and all, but. . .

Eric Bischoff: . . . That’s right. I am the boss and I think you should be very careful about just what you say t’ me, because your career Cody is in my hands. . .

Cody Rhodes: . . . That’s where you’re wrong. My career is completely in my own hands, just like I was trying to show everyone just now. . . See, I showed Kofi that I’m not gonna let up until I become the Intercontinental Champion at Vengeance. . . But you know what boss? That cage match idea of yours was genius, ‘cause I can do whatever the hell I want, and I can tell ya it’s not gonna be pretty. Kofi’s gonna go through things he’s never experienced inside that cage, and that doesn’t leave much considering the things they get up to where he comes from.

Bischoff looks at Cody with absolute disdain, but Cody just smirks right back at him.

Cody Rhodes: And after I’m done beating him and I’m officially announced as the new Intercontinental Champion, I’ll personally. . .

Cody is jumped from behind by Kofi Kingston, who just clubs him across the back and his neck constantly.

Eric Bischoff: HEY, STOP THAT RIGHT NOW. . . CAN I GET SOME HELP HERE?

?: KOFI DON'T.

Kelly Kelly enters the shot as Bischoff tries to get Kofi off of Cody, but some agents and officials quickly enter the scene and pull them apart. Despite that, Kofi & Cody glare right at each other while being held back.

Eric Bischoff: ENOUGH. . . Look, tomorrow night’s the contract signing for your match at Vengeance, but there’s gonna be no more of this. I’m gonna make sure of it. . . In fact, if either of you so much as breathes on the other. . . you can both forget about Vengeance. . . (Turns to Kofi) Now you go get changed and get the hell out o’here before you cause any more trouble. . . (Turns to Cody) You just get the hell out o’here.

Cody looks angrily at Bischoff before glancing back at the raging Kofi, and he then turns back round and walks out with Bischoff watching on with a very serious look on his face.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match 2***



King of the Ring ¼ Final
Matt Sydal vs Santino Marella​
ENDING: The solid looking Matt Sydal reaches down and pulls Santino back up, then whips him in to the ropes. As Marella hits them, he manages to hold on to the top one, catching Sydal by surprise. The high flyer then runs in at him, but Santino surprises him again by turning to the side and lifting his elbow up in to Sydal’s face. That sends him spinning round in a daze away from the ropes, and as he turns round, Santino follows him out and kicks him in the thigh before grabbing him by the head and planting him with a JAWBREAKER. . . . .


The crowd are somewhat stunned to see a more business like approach from the Italian Stallion tonight, and he looks to seal the deal, shifting round to cover his opponent as the referee drops to his knees in order to count the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Sydal gets his shoulder up, but he still looks in pain, remaining on his back as the frustrated Santino stands back up and stomps across Sydal’s chest. He then power walks in to the corner and steps through the ropes to climb up to the top rope with Sydal laying across the mat several feet away.


Marella turns to either side of the crowd, grinning with some real confidence, and he then dives off, looking to hit a DIVING HEADBUTT. . . . . But as he comes down looking to drive his head into his opponent’s upper body, Sydal rolls to the side as Santino’s head crashes in to the mat. He flaps around in pain, overselling it as Sydal slowly starts to pick himself up with Santino then trying to shake off the blow he just received. He looks a little starry eyed as he returns to his feet and turns in to an arm drag from Sydal.


Santino hurries back up as quickly as he can and walks right in to a standing dropkick, and then another. The Italian gets back up again, looking like a glutton for punishment, turning round into a JUMPING LEG LARIAT. . . . . That keeps him down for a few seconds this time, but Sydal races back up to his feet and in to the corner, where he climbs all the way up to the summit of the top turnbuckle. With Marella getting to his feet below, Sydal waits for him to turn round, and as he does, Sydal takes a chance and dives at his opponent for a CROSS BODY. . . . .


He lands on Santino’s chest and falls on top of him, holding on for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Santino kicks out as both men then try and get back up. Sydal’s the first one up, and he throws a right that Marella manages to duck. He then grabs Sydal’s head and takes him down to the mat with authority, connecting with a SNAP SWINGING NECKBREAKER. . . . . Parts of the crowd looked stunned as the serious looking Italian shimmies round to make a cover, shouting at the referee to make the count, which he does. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


No! Sydal lifts his shoulder up to a pop from the L.A. fans and the sheer agony and frustration of Marella. He sits back up and looks stunned, dropping his head in to his hands. He then stands up and has a strop, stomping on the mat for a couple of seconds, and as Sydal rolls on to his side, Santino then reaches down with a hint of complacency in an attempt to pull his opponent back up. Sydal though shows his fighting spirit at he kicks his feet up at Santino, sending him staggering back for a couple of seconds. It allows Sydal the chance to climb to his knees, and as Santino turns back round to face him, Sydal explodes with an ENZIGURI. . . . .


The fans enjoy that as Marella just falls flat on his stomach, lying there motionless. Sydal sees that as he stands back up and drags him towards the corner, then kicks him over on to his back before turning back in to the corner. He then climbs through the ropes and all the way up to the top rope with the crowd cheering him on. Santino is out of it below as Sydal then leaps up in to the sky and comes down to hit the SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . He lands right on top of the Italian’s chest, then reaches to the side and hooks the leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, Matt Sydal @ 8.52.

AFTERMATH: “Axeman” hits to a big pop while Marella rolls out of the ring as the delighted Sydal stands up to get his arm raised by the referee. He then walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, throwing his right arm up in to the air in front of the California crowd. They continue to cheer for him as the referee leaves the ring and tries to help Santino up the ramp, but Marella tells him he’s fine on his own and hobbles up on his own while Sydal continues to soak up the ovation having stepped down from the ropes. He then walks over to the apron and slides under the bottom rope to walk to the back, slapping fans hands in the process.

Michael Cole: That was a very impressive win for Matt Sydal right there, starting off his night in the best possible fashion. And that means later on he will face the winner of our next quarter final match between our very own Elijah Burke, and Raw’s Kenny Dykstra, someone we know only too well.

Jim Ross: You not want him back on Smackdown Michael?

Michael Cole: No, I think he’s best off where he is on Raw J R, but thanks for the kind offer.

Jim Ross: We could do with another draft to send him and his big mouth back over to Friday nights. . . Well, back to business, and these two guys aren’t exactly strangers after what went down two nights ago on Smackdown.


*Video Recap*
From Smackdown two nights ago​
Elijah Burke winning the fatal fourway King of the Ring contenders match with Kenny Dykstra then appearing out of nowhere, attacking him from behind with a rolling cutter.


Matt Striker: I can assure you that Elijah Burke means business tonight gentleman. I spoke to him earlier on this afternoon, and he stressed that he was particularly keen to make Kenny Dykstra very sorry for attacking him on his own turf this past Friday night.

Michael Cole: Perfectly understandable. . . Let’s find out if he’ll do just that.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match 3***



King of the Ring ¼ Final
Elijah Burke w/Layla vs Kenny Dykstra​
ENDING: With Dykstra getting to his knees, Burke bends down and gives him a helping hand up to his feet in order to whip him in to the ropes. As Dykstra then comes running back, Burke tosses him overhead with a back body drop. Kenny sits up straight away clutching his back, but Burke shows no sympathy whatsoever as he turns round, allowing the sore looking youngster the chance to get back up. Kenny turns round in to an inverted atomic drop from Burke, who then turns round and runs in to the ropes, but as he runs back, Dykstra surprises the hell out of him by landing a STANDING DROPKICK. . . . .


That takes both men down to the mat with Kenny rolling on to one knee straight away and taking a few deep breathes. Burke isn’t staying still for long either, but Kenny acts quickly to kick him in the gut. He then pulls Burke’s head under his arm and plants him with a SNAP SUPLEX. . . . . Layla looks a little worried for her man on the outside as a serious Dykstra stands back up and walks in to the corner. He then pulls himself up to the second rope as Burke starts to stand back up, and as he turns round, Kenny springs in to action and takes him down with a DIVING CLOTHESLINE. . . . .


Kenny then crawls back over, taking his time a bit before hooking Burke’s leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Burke comfortably kicks out, not to the amusement of Dykstra though. The extremely focused youngster gets back to work straight away, standing back up and bringing Burke up with him before whipping him in to the ropes. And as Burke comes running back, Dykstra lifts him off the ground and plants him with a SPINNING POWERSLAM. . . . . Kenny holds on for a cover as the ref rushes across and down to the mat in order to count Burke’s shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


No! Burke kicks out again, and the frustration really shows this time as Dykstra sits up looking angry. As Burke then starts to shake a leg, Kenny stands back up with a very determined look on his face as he urges Burke up, getting ready to explode. The moment Burke’s managed to get to his feet, Dykstra kicks him in the gut there and then and grabs him by the head, setting him up for a ROLLING CUTTER. . . . . Burke fights back though and pushes Dykstra forward in to the ropes and hits him with a shoulder barge as he comes back.


That gets a pop from the crowd, but Dykstra picks himself right back up. Burke looks to scoop him up, but Kenny manages to pull himself back down almost immediately. He follows up with a kick to the gut and then drills the former boxer with a SNAP DDT. . . . . It looks as if the lights are out as Burke’s head was driven in to the mat, not moving at all now as he lies flat out on the canvas with Kenny showing off a sadistic smirk as he sits there right next to his opponent for a couple of seconds. He thinks it’s over, and he then looks to complete the formalities as he turns Burke over on to his back and hooks the leg for the cover attempt. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


No! Burke just manages to lift his shoulder up as the ref’s hand came down for the third time. Dykstra sits up and shakes his head, not quite sure what it’s going to take to put Burke away while Layla claps aggressively in trying to encourage her man. Things look bleak for him though as he is barely moving, and Dykstra snaps out of feeling sorry for himself. He stands up and paces in to the corner, climbs through the ropes and up to the top rope with Burke still showing no real signs of movement. The fans boo Kenny before he then leaps off the top, looking to hit the GUILLOTINE LEG DROP. . . . .


As he comes out of the sky, looking to drop both his legs across Burke’s chest, his opponent rolls to the side with Kenny then hitting the mat and the mat only, setting up a big cheer from the crowd. Layla breathes a sigh of relief on the outside, and several seconds later, both men start to rise. They turn to face each other with Dykstra being knocked back a couple of paces from a hard right hand. He then runs back at Burke but in to a LIFTING SPINNING SIT-DOWN SPINEBUSTER. . . . . That could well be that as Burke holds on for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Shoulder Up! Somehow Kenny just escaped that one, and some of the crowd are stunned, gasping in amazement.


Burke doesn’t let it get him down as he looks to strike while the iron’s hot. He stands back up and pulls the weary Dykstra with him, then whips him hard in to the corner. Dykstra’s chest meets the pads in a full on collision, and he ends up leaning against them. Burke grins and looks in to the crowd for a second before pulling his knee pads down and running in to the corner, jumping up and driving his knees in to Kenny’s back for THE ELIJAH EXPRESS. . . . . A big pop breaks out in the stands, and as Burke backs out of the corner, the pain ridden Dykstra turns round and staggers out in to Burke’s clutches and THE ELIJAH EXPERIENCE. . . . . Kenny hits the deck with Burke following up to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, Elijah Burke @ 11.49.

AFTERMATH: “Don’t Waste My Time” hits to a big pop from the sell out crowd as Burke stands up to get his arm raised from the ref. Layla stands up on the apron and claps her man, then sits on the middle rope with Burke walking over and smirking at her as he then joins her on the apron. He jumps down and holds out his hand for her to hold and then jump down safely. He turns back to face the ring, as does Layla and nods his head looking very pleased before turning back up the ramp and walking through the curtain. Dykstra sits up in a bad mood, and Burke’s music cuts as he stands up to heat from the crowd and some sarcastic cheers. He looks like he could quite happily kill them all, but he opts to leave the ring in a huff and walk back up the ramp in one hell of a bad mood.

Michael Cole: Well gentleman, this is turning out to be a clean sweep for Smackdown so far. That’s three from three in the semi finals.

Matt Striker: Michael, that means we’re guaranteed at least one Smackdown superstar in the final later on tonight.

Jerry Lawler: Don’t get too carried away fellas, we still have Rey Mysterio for now. There’s still plenty of hope.

Jim Ross: He is of course the only former world champion competing in the tournament itself. And you know what they say folks. . . never bet against Rey Mysterio. I know I won’t.


*Video Promo*
“Don’t Try This”


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match 4***



King of the Ring ¼ Final
Rey Mysterio vs Chavo Guerrero​
ENDING: Both Rey and Chavo make it back up to their feet, and Chavo looks to strike first with a right hand, but Mysterio blocks it and unloads with a couple of blows of his own, culminating in a hard kick to the gut. Chavo leans forward holding his stomach as Rey then turns back and runs in to the ropes, SPRINGBOARD TO HIT A REVERSE CROSS BODY. . . . . He lands on top of Chavo as the referee drops to his knees and counts the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Chavo lifts Rey off of his chest to stop the fall, and as both men get up, Chavo runs right at Rey and in to TILT-A-WHIRL HEAD SCISSORS. . . . .


Chavo ends up being thrust forward on to the middle rope, sending the crowd crazy. They all stand up as Rey dials up for the 619. . . . . He then turns to run the ropes, runs right back across the ring and swings between the ropes, but Chavo manages to pull his head back just in time. Rey steadies himself on the apron as Chavo goes back at him, but Rey ducks down and drives his shoulder through the ropes and in to Guerrero’s gut. Chavo is forced back from the ropes as Rey then spots an opportunity, spring boarding off the top and coming down on to Chavo with a SEATED SENTON. . . . .


He lands right on top of Chavo and falls on to him for another cover attempt. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Chavo kicks out to the disappointment of the crowd. Rey stands right back up with Chavo trying to do the same. Mysterio then turns back and runs in to the ropes, but as he comes back, Chavo takes him by surprise, planting him with a TILT-A-WHIRL BACKBREAKER. . . . . Chavo signals that it’s over, crossing both his arms before leaning forward and hooking both of Rey’s legs as the ref then makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Rey gets his shoulder up, much to the anger of Chavo. He shakes his head, but quickly gets back to work.


He stands right back up and drags Rey up with him, pulling Rey’s head under his arm before lifting him vertically up in to the air and falling back for a suplex. Chavo then holds on to the grip and twists his hips, getting right back up for a second suplex, and then a third to complete the tri-fector, the THREE AMIGO’S. . . . . That gets a mixed reception, but the cocky Chavo gets back up with a very smug smile on his face. He lifts both arms up in the air, taunting the crowd before turning round and walking in to the corner, where he climbs up to the rope, taking his time as he then points up to the ceiling.


Despite wasting some valuable time, Rey remains flat on his back as Chavo finally takes the big leap off the top for the FROG SPLASH. . . . . But no, Rey rolls in to the corner as Chavo eats mat. That generates a massive pop from the sell out L.A. crowd, and after several seconds, both men try and pick themselves back up with Rey using the ropes on the corner to help him up while Chavo manages all by himself. As he turns round and sees Rey getting up, he runs right at him, but Rey holds on to the top rope at either side and lifts himself up to drive both his feet in to Chavo’s face, sending him staggering out of the corner in a spin.


Rey then pulls himself up to the second rope, and as Chavo turns round, Mysterio jumps off on to Chavo’s soldiers looking for a HURRICANRANA. . . . . But Chavo holds on and brings Rey crashing down to the mat on his back with a POWERBOMB. . . . . That had to hurt, and it could be all over as Chavo immediately drops to his knees and makes a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Rey somehow held on and got his shoulder up at the last second to the absolute disgust of Chavo, and the relief of the fans.


Chavo stands up and argues with the referee, claiming it was a three count, but the referee ignores him, and as Chavo looks back at his opponent, he sees Rey starting to come round. Chavo forgets about the argument and reaches down to drag Rey back up, setting him up for a BRAINBUSTER. . . . . Chavo looks very serious as he looks in to the crowd momentarily before lifting Rey vertically up in to the air, but Rey starts wriggling around and manages to force his way down to safety, jumping down on to his feet with his back to Chavo.


The incensed Mexican Warrior turns round and runs right at Mysterio, who catches Chavo with a drop toe hold as Chavo once again finds himself stranded on the middle rope. That sets the crowd going yet again as Rey stands up and forgets about dialling up this time, just running forward in to the ropes, charges back, swings through the ropes and connects with the 619. . . . . A massive pop breaks out as Chavo is sent back pedalling across the ring and down to his knees. As he then manages to stand back up, Rey had steadied himself on the apron and springboards once more to connect with the WEST COAST POP. . . . . With Rey holding on to Chavo’s legs for the cover, the ref makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, Rey Mysterio @ 12.47.

AFTERMATH: “Booyaka 619” blasts out to a huge pop as Mysterio stands back up to get his arm raised by the referee. He then walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, posing for the joyous crowd before stepping down and going to do the same in the opposite corner. He then leaves the ring and walks back up the ramp slapping hands with the fans as Chavo sits up, and not in the best of moods.

Jerry Lawler: What did I say earlier? . . . We’re back in the game J R.


*Video Promo*


Jim Ross: We most certainly are, and that completes the make up of the semi finals yet t’ come t’night. . . That victory for Rey Mysterio means he will take on Shelton Benjamin for a place in the final against either Smackdown’s Matt Sydal or Elijah Burke. . . Business is just pickin’ up folks.


*Video Recap*​
Raw (19/5) – 4 Weeks Ago: A non title match between Finlay & Ted DiBiase Jr, resulting in Finlay winning after a distraction from Hornswoggle allowed him to nail DiBiase with the shillelagh.
Raw (26/5) – 3 Weeks Ago: DiBiase blind siding Finlay after a victory, hitting him in the back of the head with the Million Dollar Championship before attacking Hornswoggle, who needed medical attention.
Raw (2/6) – 2 Weeks Ago: Finlay calling out DiBiase with The Million Dollar Man answering the call and explaining he told his son to stay at home to think about his actions, ending with Finlay telling DiBiase Sr to pass on a message to his son, that at the King of the Ring there is going to be nowhere to hide.
Raw (9/6) – Last Week: DiBiase Jr explaining that he wasn’t sorry at all and that he wished he hadn’t stopped where he did when attacking Hornswoggle, leading to Finlay coming out and accusing him of being a coward. DiBiase denied that before a brawl ensued that saw security forced to intervene and pull them apart.


{Cut to Ringside}

***Match 5***



Million Dollar Championship
Finlay vs Ted DiBiase Jr (c) w/“The Million Dollar Woman” Maryse
ENDING: Finlay reaches down and pulls the very sore looking Million Dollar Champion back up to his feet, then whips him with force in to the corner. DiBiase hits the pads hard back first, and the Irishman doesn’t waste a second as he runs right in at him straight away, connecting with a hard clothesline across the chest. Finlay then backs out of the corner with DiBiase staggering out after him, walking right in to Finlay’s grasp, and the challenger lifts him up off his feet, trying to set him up for the CELTIC CROSS. . . . . DiBiase fights for his life, wriggling around on Finlay’s shoulder, and he manages to slip down to safety. He quickly turns round to face Finlay’s back and reacts sharply to lift Finlay up and down to the mat with a BELLY TO BACK SUPLEX. . . . .


That buys the champion some much need recovery time as he sits up and takes a couple of deep breaths with Maryse looking a lot calmer on the outside and she looks on. As DiBiase starts to make his way back up, the challenger to his title does the same, and they get to their feet at the same time with Finlay blocking a right hand. He then follows up by connecting with a European uppercut before hitting DiBiase with a low dropkick that sends him down to his knees. The intense Finlay then kicks him hard in the chest, knocking him flat on his back and then reaches down to grab his right leg and turn him over on to his stomach before locking in an ELEVATED BOSTON CRAB. . . . .


DiBiase looks to be in a great deal of pain straight away, lying in the centre of the ring and desperately reaching out for the ropes, but realising they’re a long way away. Maryse panics too, walking round to stand opposite her man, encouraging him to fight the hold. That seems to give DiBiase more fight as Finlay still applies the pressure, but the Million Dollar Champion manages to drag himself slowly towards the ropes with the crowd getting behind Finlay even more in the process. That upsets Maryse, and she blocks them out to encourage Ted even more, and he responds by crawling across the mat to get even closer to the ropes, getting within touching distance with Finlay now becoming worried. He becomes practically helpless as Ted Jr then reaches out with all he can to grab hold of the bottom rope to Maryse’s relief and joy.


Finlay looks pissed as the referee tells him to let the hold go, and he reluctantly does so as Maryse grabs Ted by the head, trying to help his recovery as Finlay backs away. As Ted then starts to pick himself back up while using the ropes for support, the still deadly serious Irishman trudges towards him. DiBiase reacts well to rake him in the eyes though, earning a ticking off from the ref in the process as Finlay turns round and staggers away from the ropes clutching his face for several seconds. As he turns round, he runs right at DiBiase, but Ted ducks down and pulls down the top rope with Finlay flying over and down to the floor below as Maryse has to step to the side quickly to avoid having an Irishman fall on top of her.


Finlay hits the padded floor just to the side of her, and she looks very relieved, taking a deep breath herself as he then starts to get up to his knees and climbs back on the apron, trying to roll under the bottom rope. As he does so, DiBiase walks back in to the centre of the ring with the referee checking he’s okay, and with their backs to Finlay, Maryse takes off one of her high heel shoes and hammers Finlay right in the side of the head as he slips under the ropes. She puts the shoe back on straight away with the fans booing to the confusion of the referee and DiBiase as they turn round to the sight of Finlay laid out under the ropes. They look at Maryse, but she lifts her arms up, protesting her innocence. As they look away, she turns to the fans in the front row and smirks.


The Million Dollar Champion then looks to take advantage of the situation placed in front of him as he walks across to his troubled opponent, pulling him up and hanging him on the ropes by his feet. He positions him with his head facing the centre of the ring and facing down to allow himself to then drill Finlay with a ROPE HUNG STUNNER. . . . . That could just be all as DiBiase sits up with a very smug look on his face, as does Maryse on the outside with Ted then turning Finlay on to his back and hooking the near leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Finlay manages to get his foot on the bottom rope at the last split second to stay alive. DiBiase sits back up in shock, not looking happy at all as Maryse looks shocked on the outside just a few feet away.


The angry third generation superstar stands back up, looking very determined to finish his opponent off, urging him up. The tough Irishman goes along with the plan to the point of trying to get back up to his feet, but he looks very uneasy on them as he walks away from the ropes. DiBiase then shifts behind Finlay and tries to lock in THE MILLION DOLLAR DREAM. . . . . With the fans booing and trying to encourage the Irishman, DiBiase manages to apply the hold perfectly, sending Finlay in to a deeper sleep second by second. The fans cheers become louder and louder, joined by strong clapping as the referee checks Finlay’s condition, lifting his arm up and letting it fall.


It drops right down by his side to the satisfaction of both Ted and Maryse, and the ref then tries for a second time, lifting the arm up once again with the same result. The arm falls right back down to Finlay’s side, and with the match now on a knife edge, the ref grabs and lifts the arm for the final time, letting go with everyone in the arena watching on as it drops, but just as it’s falling, Finlay shows how he tough is by keeping it up, lifting it right up in to the air to a huge pop from the crowd. DiBiase looks stunned and panics as Finlay then drives his elbow in to the champ’s ribcage, not once but twice. That forces DiBiase to let go of the hold as he leans forward after the blows to his ribs.


That allows to Finlay to turn back and run the ropes, but as he makes his way back, DiBiase shows his own fighting spirit by running at him to meet him with a vicious clothesline that sends Finlay down to the mat. Some boos meet that, but DiBiase isn’t done, and neither is Finlay. The Irishman starts to stand back up straight away with DiBiase then shifting behind him, stalking him closely, and as Finlay gets to his feet, DiBiase tries to set him up for DREAM STREET. . . . . Finlay doesn’t allow that to happen and slips out of his grasp and behind him straight away. He then drops to his knees and rolls Ted back for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


DiBiase kicks out with force as both men rush to make it back up to their feet. As they turn to face each other, DiBiase walks in to Finlay and an INSIDE CRADLE. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kick Out! They again rush back up to a vertical base, and DiBiase throws one hell of a wild right that Finlay ducks comfortably. The Irishman spins him back round and kicks him in the gut, then tries to lift him in to position for the CELTIC CROSS. . . . . DiBiase fights it right away and slips down Finlay’s back to quickly turn round and club him across the back before planting him with DREAM STREET. . . . . It looks to be over as DiBiase crawls over frantically to hook both legs as the ref makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, and still the Million Dollar Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr @ 13.50.

AFTERMATH: Maryse is elated on the outside as she rushes round to grab the Million Dollar Championship. Her man stands back up with “Priceless” playing to a loud collection of boos inside the arena, but he just pulls his arm away from the referee who tries to raise it in victory. Maryse climbs up the steps and through the ropes, then walks over to Ted to pass him the belt that he collects and walks over to the ropes straight away to lift it right up in to the air with a very smug look on his face, taunting the fans in the process as Maryse applauds behind him with a big smile on her face.

DiBiase then turns back round and hugs Maryse before walking over to the ropes and sitting on the middle on to allow Maryse through. He then helps her down to the floor below as they walk back up the ramp looking very satisfied with Ted turning round to lift the belt up in to the air once more. With the boos ringing out, he turns back round and puts his arm round Maryse as they then walk to the back with Finlay coming round and not looking all that happy.

Jim Ross: Well, I might not like him, but I have to give DiBiase credit for coming through t’night. It was far from easy, no doubt, but he battled through it against Finlay, who is tough as they come. . . Maybe, just maybe this brash young upstart might have a bright future on Raw.


{Cut Backstage}​

Josh Matthews is standing by.

Josh Matthews: Ladies and gentleman, please welcome my guest at this time. . . M V P.

Cheers filter through from inside the arena as the camera zooms out to reveal a relaxed MVP standing alongside Josh.

Josh Matthews: Later on t’night as we all know, you’ll be going one on one with CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship. How are you feeling right now about your chances of leaving here tonight as the new World Champion?

MVP: My chances? . . . I feel my chances are pretty good. See t’night’s gonna be payback at its best. From the very moment Punk took my money in the bank contract and became the World Champion, he’s got all wrapped up in himself ‘bout bein’ this great champion Smackdown needs. So wrapped up in fact, he forgot all ‘bout MVP and how he took away my shot at Judgment Day. But t’night Josh, Punk’s gonna find out if he ain’t already, that MVP ain’t goin’ anywhere. He can forget all about Shawn Michaels, The Undertaker an’ whoever else he’s been thinkin’ ‘bout, ‘cause there’s only person he needs to worry about here an’ now, an’ you’re lookin’ at ‘im. . . It don’t matter how y’look at it Josh, I was robbed plain an’ simple at Judgment Day, but t’night I’m gonna get even. You better believe it, an’ Punk better believe it ‘cause it’s the truth. . . He ain’t leavin’ here with the world title ‘cause you’re gonna see a new champ crowned right here t’night, an’ that champ goes by the name of M V P.

We hear cheers from the arena once again as he turns confidently in to the camera, sending a direct message to Punk before turning round and walking out of the shot, leaving Josh who looks quite impressed with MVP’s confidence.


*Video Recap*
From Earlier On Tonight​
Matt Sydal defeating Santino Marella after a Shooting Star Press, and Elijah Burke’s victory over Kenny Dykstra to set up the first semi final match.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match 6***



King of the Ring Semi Final
Elijah Burke w/Layla vs Matt Sydal​

ENDING: Burke makes his way back up to his feet with Sydal doing the same in front of him. Burke is first to react, grabbing Sydal by the wrist and whipping him in to the ropes. As Sydal bounces back off the ropes, Burke jumps up in to the air and hits a STANDING DROPKICK. . . . . He catches Sydal right in the face, sending him down to the mat. He looks a little dizzy as he sits up, but Burke looks to keep the momentum going as he stands back up. He helps Sydal up and whips him hard in to the corner, then runs in at him straight away and hits him with a hard clothesline, catching him across the chest.


Burke then backs away from the corner with Sydal then staggering out as Burke turns to run the ropes, charges back and takes Sydal down with a FLYING SHOULDER TACKLE. . . . . Burke is in the ascendency now, and he returns to his feet straight away with Sydal also getting back up. Burke hammers him with a backhand chop, and then another two to force Sydal back and up against the ropes. The very focused Burke then grabs Sydal’s arm and whips his opponent in the opposite set of ropes, sending Sydal bouncing off, and Burke then runs at him to meet him in the middle of the ring, nailing him with a FLYING FOREARM. . . . .


The crowd cheer the ‘up and at ‘em’ approach from Burke, but the resiliency of Sydal shines through as he tries to stand back up once again with Burke helping him up. He then thrusts him in to the ropes once more, and once Sydal comes back, Burke takes a step closer in to him, lifts him off his feet and spins round to plant him with a ferocious LIFTING SPINNING SIT-DOWN SPINEBUSTER. . . . . Some Sydal fans boo, but most are enjoying the two fan favourites going at it, as Burke holds on for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Sydal just lifts his shoulder up to a pop from the crowd, taking Burke by surprise as he sits back up.


Layla tries to motivate him, and he stands back up again, then reaches down to drag the clearly hurting Sydal back up. He then whips him hard in to the corner, and Sydal ends up hitting the pads chest first, remaining there leaning up against them. Burke gets a pop with a few boos mixed in as he backs up in to the opposite corner and pulls his knee pads down, getting ready for the ELIJAH EXPRESS. . . . . Burke then charges towards the corner, but as he jumps up at Sydal’s back, the high flyer manages to pull himself to the side at the last second with Burke jumping into the pads.


He then falls back and hits the mat with Layla watching on, concerned as Sydal then turns round and crawls across the mat. They then both start to stand back up, and as Burke turns round in the corner, Sydal runs in at him and connects with a DIVING LEG LARIAT. . . . . Burke then falls forward and flat on his face as Sydal climbs back up by the ropes. He then steps through them and climbs up to the top rope as Burke gets to his knees in front of him, and Sydal doesn’t mess about as he jumps down and sends Burke face first down to the canvas with a LEG DROP BULLDOG. . . . .


Burke doesn’t seem to be moving as Sydal then turns himself round and crawls across the mat to turn Burke on to his back and make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Burke gets the shoulder up to the relief of Layla on the outside, but he remains on his back as Sydal stands up and looks unsure of what to do next. He then turns back to the corner and decides to head back up to the dizzy heights of the top turnbuckle, but as he’s climbing up the ropes, Burke is climbing back up on to his feet. With his back to Sydal and being very close to the corner anyway, as he turns round, he sees Sydal getting in to position.


With time on his side, Burke then hits his opponent in the gut, sending Sydal down in to a seated position on the top turnbuckle. Burke then steps up on to the second rope and pulls Sydal’s head under his arm, setting him up for a suplex. With Sydal locked in place, Burke then takes the almighty step up from the second rope, all the way up to the top with the fans cheering in preparation for a SUPERPLEX. . . . . As he then looks to lift Sydal up, Sydal blocks it and holds on to the top rope. Burke desperately tries to hit the big time move, but it’s Sydal who takes control by pulling his head back and shoving Burke down to the canvas.


Burke lands on his back, right in front of Sydal and doesn’t move an inch. As Sydal then stands back up, the crowd cheer and rise to their feet as they see what Sydal has in mind with his eyes lighting up. He then takes a second before jumping up in to the air and comes down on top of Burke’s chest with a SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . Sydal hits it! Layla looks very nervous as Sydal reaches back and grabs one of Burke’s legs for a cover with the referee darting across to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3 . . . . . He’s in the final!


WINNER: By pinfall, Matt Sydal @ 13.06.

AFTERMATH: “Axeman” hits for the fourth time this evening as an obviously relieved but also delighted Matt Sydal gets his arm raised by the referee. As the ref lets go, Sydal shakes his head, clearly in shock he’s made it this far. Layla then slips in the ring and checks over on Burke as he starts to come round. Sydal then walks over to the ropes and throws his right arm up in to the air, getting a big cheer from the crowd. He leans against the ropes for several seconds, trying to get his breath back as Burke sits up behind him.

As Sydal then turns round, Burke makes it to his feet with both men looking at each other. There’s a slight sense of awkwardness as Layla looks on too, not sure what’s going on. They then walk towards each other with Burke offering Sydal his hand, and Sydal shakes it to a big pop. Burke then raises Sydal’s hand in the air for a second before slapping him on the back in a kind way before leaving the ring with Layla. Sydal soaks up the ovation as a disappointed but calm Burke walks up the stage with Layla.


*Video Promo*


Michael Cole: Well there you have it. Matt Sydal has booked his place in the final later on this evening, where he will either face Raw’s Rey Mysterio in what I believe would be a match for the ages, or the United States Champion, Shelton Benjamin, a man he beat on Smackdown in a non title action just over two weeks ago.


*Video Promo*
“Wanna Be Loved” by Papa Roach
Images: Eric Bischoff telling The Corporation (JBL, The Big Show & Vladimir Kozlov) a couple of weeks back they were to be suspended for two weeks and having security escort them out of the arena, followed by their attack on Triple H & Ric Flair in the parking lot the week before.

Voiceover: Two weeks ago, Raw Head of Authority, Eric Bischoff suspended all three members of The Corporation, but tomorrow night live on Raw, they will return. . . How will JBL and his two henchman react upon their return to Monday Night Raw? . . . Make sure you tune in to find out just what goes down when these three highly dangerous men aim to make their presence felt when they reacquaint themselves with Evolution. . . Raw comes to you live, only on USA, 9pm central.




*Video Recap*
From Earlier On Tonight
Shelton Benjamin’s controversial victory over Kofi Kingston thanks to interference from Cody Rhodes, and then Rey Mysterio’s win over Chavo Guerrero to set up the second semi final clash.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match 7***



King of the Ring Semi Final
Rey Mysterio vs Shelton Benjamin​
ENDING: Shelton pulls Mysterio back up and whips him in to the ropes, but as he watches Rey comes back, the Master of the 619 tries to slide through his legs, turning on to his stomach in the process. Shelton quickly grabs Rey by the legs and then pulls him up by the waist in a wheelbarrow lift, but Rey reaches up and grabs Shelton by the head, then forces himself down to the mat, hitting a BULLDOG ON BENJAMIN. . . . . That gets a big pop, and Mysterio doesn’t look to waste any time at all, turning Shelton on to his back before hooking his leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Shelton comes to life, lifting his shoulder up and leaning to the side. Mysterio doesn’t let the near fall get him down as he stands back up straight away and walks in to the corner with The Gold Standard sitting up and trying to shake off the cobwebs.


Rey then calmly climbs through the ropes and up to the top rope while Shelton now tries to get back up to his feet. He doesn’t seem to know where he’s at as he then walks slowly towards Rey as the Mexican then turns round to face the crowd before coming off the top to connect with an ASAI MOONSAULT. . . . . He lands on top of Shelton and takes him down to the mat, holding on to his legs as the referee makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kick Out! Shelton forces Rey off, and the little Mexican falls on to his side. He then makes his way back up with Shelton doing the same, both looking a little worse for wear with Rey looking to strike the first blow. He tries to kick Shelton in the chest, but Benjamin grabs his foot and holds on to it for dear life, smiling at a worried looking Mysterio.


The United States champion then lets go and spins Rey round, and as Rey is spun back round, Shelton looks to hit a spin kick. Rey ducks his head though and as Shelton turns back to face him, Rey turns the lights out with one hell of an ENZIGURI. . . . . Shelton just falls flat on his face with the crowd cheering, and Rey scurries across to turn the motionless Gold Standard on to his back to try for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Shoulder Up! Somehow, Shelton just saved his own skin to the shock of everyone in the arena. He still doesn’t appear to be moving as Rey then stands back up and walks across to the apron. He then climbs through the ropes and stands on the apron, halfway across it as he holds on to the top rope. With Shelton still not moving, Rey then springboards and looks to hit a SPLASH. . . . .


Shelton rolls to the side and under the ropes that Rey just came from as Mysterio’s body collides with the canvas. Gasps come from the crowd as Shelton then slowly makes his way back up on the apron using the ropes to aid his progress. Rey Rey then makes a return to his feet in the middle of the ring with his back to Benjamin, and just as he’s about to turn round, the United States Champion uses the top rope to hit a SPRINGBOARD FLYING NECKBREAKER. . . . . That looked bad for Rey, and Benjamin sits up with a real smug expression on his face, smirking in to the crowd. He thinks it’s over, and he then crawls across to Rey, who looks totally out for the count. Shelton then reaches over and hooks one leg, still looking confident as the referee then drops to his knees and makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


No! Rey gets his shoulder up! A massive roar spreads across the arena as a stunned Shelton sits up and looks over at the referee, who too looks a little surprised. Rey starts to come round with Shelton’s frustration taking a turn for the worse. He then stands back up and urges Rey to get up, but all he can do is sit up with starry eyes. Benjamin gets even more angry, and enough’s enough as he then reaches down and pulls Mysterio up himself. He pulls him in to place for an EXPLODER SUPLEX. . . . . The emotional United States Champion stares intensely in to the crowd for a couple of seconds, and Rey takes advantage, swinging his elbow in to the side of Shelton’s head a couple of times. Shelton lets go of Rey, and the former World Champion back tracks to the ropes to try and get a short breather.


Shelton’s not in the mood as he sees Rey by the ropes, and he runs at him, but Mysterio catches him by surprise with a drop toe hold on to the middle rope. The crowd goes nuts and all jump up to their feet as Rey then stands up and dials up. He then runs forward in to the ropes, charges back across and swings through the ropes to kick Shelton in the face with both feet for the 619. . . . . It feels like the roof has just come off the Staples Center as Shelton is sent back across the mat. He tries to get right back up, not looking in the best shape as Rey stands on the apron waiting to pounce. As Shelton then gets up and turns round, Rey springboards and goes looking for the WEST COAST POP. . . . .


As he comes flying through the sky towards him, Benjamin reacts quickly to nail him with a JUMPING SPINNING HEEL KICK. . . . . Benjamin doesn’t mess about this time as he immediately reaches over and hooks both legs for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Shelton sits up frustrated once more, but he doesn’t look all that surprised this time. He makes his way back up and reaches down to drag Rey back up, then whips him in to the ropes. As Rey hits the ropes, Shelton ducks his head, and as Mysterio comes back, he kicks Shelton full in the face. Shelton’s head snaps back up, and Rey jumps up in to the air right away on to Shelton’s shoulders for a HURRICANRANA. . . . . He hits it and holds on desperately as the ref rushes across and drops down to make a count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


No! Shelton powers out again, and despite both men feeling the effects of two matches, they rush back up to their feet with Rey grabbing Shelton’s arm. He tries to whip him in to the corner, but Shelton reverses it quite comfortably with Mysterio’s back hitting the pads somewhat tamely. The Gold Standard then charges across the ring and looks to hit a STINGER SPLASH. . . . . Rey steps out of the corner, but Shelton jumps up on to the second rope. He quickly jumps back down and turns round as a shocked Rey panics and runs back at him, but this time Shelton moves out of the way as Rey runs right in to the pads. Benjamin then creeps up behind him to roll him up, and he reaches to the side to grab hold on the middle rope for leverage, but the ref doesn’t see it as he counts the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, Shelton Benjamin @ 15.13.

AFTERMATH: “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Me” hits to a ton of heat from the fans as Shelton quickly escapes through the ropes and Rey sits up in shock. He looks right back at a very smug Benjamin, who just smiles back at him. He then is then greeted by the referee, who passes him his United States Championship belt and raises his arm in front of a devastated Mysterio. He shakes his head and smacks the mat with one hand to the amusement of Shelton, who then turns round and walks towards the ramp. He then walks back up it while raising his belt up in to the air, mouthing the words “One to go” with Rey still looking disappointed in the ring.


*Video Promo*


Jim Ross: Well King, our worst fears have indeed come true, and it will now be an all Smackdown final between Shelton Benjamin and Matt Sydal.

Jerry Lawler: I’m in shock J R. I really thought Rey Mysterio would pull through for Raw, but despite getting lucky earlier on against Kofi Kingston, Shelton Benjamin pulled out all the stops to earn his spot in the final.

Michael Cole: I think everyone knows my feelings when it comes to Shelton Benjamin, but he certainly took it up a notch right there, and that sets up a very intriguing final. . . Think back to just over two weeks ago on Smackdown when the United States Champion was coming off a huge victory in the scramble match at Judgment Day to retain his title. He got caught short by Matt Sydal that night, and judging from comments made by The Gold Standard the last couple of weeks, he certainly hasn’t forgotten about that night and Sydal’s upset victory.

Matt Striker: Oh, that’s absolutely right Michael. It seems to me that Shelton has come out t’night with a point to prove, and he’s just one win away from erasing that night from his mind. . . The question is; will he be able to finish the job and put that memory behind him once and for all by defeating Matt Sydal here t’night to become the 2008 WWE King of the Ring?


*Video Promo*​
We see Matt Sydal drinking a bottle of water in his locker room, getting ready for his huge match with Shelton Benjamin later on to determine the 2008 King of the Ring. The camera then switches to show Jeff Hardy warming up in his locker room in preparation for his WWE Championship showdown with “The Big Red Machine” Kane.


*Video Recap*​
Smackdown (23/5) – Just Over 3 Weeks Ago:
CM Punk storming down to the ring while it was being set up for The VIP Lounge, bringing out the angry MVP, who let Punk know why he was just that. Matt Hardy & Elijah Burke then coming out, leading to an impromptu tag team match until MVP nailed everyone with his briefcase, setting up an announcement from Tazz that all four men would meet at Judgment Day for the Money in the Bank contract.
Judgment Day (25/5) – 3 Weeks Ago: Punk walking in to MVP’s locker room before the match, telling him that he (MVP) should be concerned about him and no one else.
Later on and the fatal fourway with Punk pinning Matt to win the contract.
Shawn Michaels celebrating his victory over The Undertaker to retain the World Heavyweight Championship when Punk attacked him before cashing in the briefcase to become the new World Champion.
Smackdown (30/5) – 16 Nights Ago Ago: CM Punk’s victory speech until being interrupted by Michaels, but the new champ telling Shawn that he did nothing wrong. Michaels then informing Punk that he would be using his rematch clause later on that night.
Punk defeating Michaels after a low blow and a GTS, and then trying to inflict a serious injury on Michaels by nailing him with a steal chair. MVP then coming to the rescue before Punk could hit The Heartbreak Kid again, clotheslining the champ to the outside and glaring right at him with Punk doing the same.
Smackdown (6/6) – 9 Nights Ago: Punk bragging about putting Michaels on the shelf but being interrupted by Tazz, who then put him in a title match later on against The Undertaker.
Later on that night with Punk awaiting The Undertaker’s entrance, only to see him being brutally attacked by Chris Jericho, watching on with a smile. That was until MVP struck again, coming out of the crowd to hit him with a Playmaker and announce that he’d be facing him at the King of the Ring for the World Championship.
Smackdown (13/6) – 2 Nights Ago: MVP going to Matt Hardy, talking about their mutual hate for Punk and asking him to be his partner in the main event against Punk & Jericho with Matt agreeing.
The main event and Punk walking out on Jericho, allowing MVP to win thanks to a Playmaker and stare right at Punk on the ramp with the champ lifting his belt up in to the air.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match 8***



World Heavyweight Championship
Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) vs CM Punk (c)
ENDING: CM Punk watches on closely as MVP, the challenger to his World Championship tries to make his way back up to his feet. Just as MVP gets up, Punk steps forward and strikes with a martial arts kick to the gut, and then another, sending Porter down to his knees. The Straight Edge Superstar then turns back and runs in to the ropes, but as he comes back, MVP shoots up and grabs Punk around the waist, then tosses him overhead with a SNAP OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . That gives the crowd something to cheer about, and as MVP sits up, so does Punk while holding his back as a result of the counter. They both stand back up and turn to face each other with Porter striking first with a hard right hand. He then follows up with the crowd egging him on as he puts Punk on the back foot, sending him back up against the ropes.


The Franchise Player then grabs Punk by the arm and whips the World Champion in to the opposite set of ropes, and as Punk comes back, MVP runs across to meet him half way and connects with a FALLING CLOTHESLINE. . . . . The crowd cheer again as MVP gets some serious momentum going, and as he returns to his feet with Punk getting to his knees, he helps his opponent up and whips him hard in to the corner with Punk’s back hitting the turnbuckle pads. He hit hard and MVP charges in at him, connecting with a vicious PLAYA’S BOOT. . . . . Punk slumps down the pads as a focused MVP steps out with the fans cheering him taking control of the match. MVP then backs out of the corner and urges his opponent up, but the World Champion remains leaning firmly against the pads.


As he slowly struggles to get back up, MVP gets ready to explode, and his eyes light up as a not all there Punk then walks right in to his grasp. MVP then kicks him in the gut and pulls him in to place for the PLAYMAKER. . . . . Before he can think about finishing him off, Punk fights back and slips away and behind him to the shock of Porter. He then turns round right away in to a kick to the gut by Punk this time, who follows up by pulling MVP in to his body and hitting a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK BACKBREAKER. . . . . That looks to have hurt MVP, and Punk isn’t waiting round to take advantage as he shimmies round to hook both legs with the referee hurrying to count the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . MVP kicks out to the frustration of Punk who leans back on to his knees and looks down angrily at his resilient challenger.


He then sees MVP rolling on to his side in an attempt to stand back up, provoking Punk to make his own way back up, which he does, standing right behind MVP and lurking with intent. Porter turns in to Punk’s body, and the World Champion grabs him across the upper chest, then lifts him up off his feet and takes him down to the mat and holds on for a submission hold, the ANACONDA VICE. . . . . Punk stitches it in and applies the pressure on MVP, who senses the trouble he could be in as he lies in the centre of the ring. The crowd start to encourage him and chant his name while clapping, but it doesn’t bother Punk at all as he keeps his sights firmly on the job in hand, making life very difficult for his opponent.


MVP then starts to respond to the support and drags himself slowly across the mat with Punk desperately holding on, but he seems to be waning as Porter pulls himself closer and closer to the ropes. With the crowd in full support as he gets within a hand’s reach, MVP reaches out with every last bit of fight in his body to grab hold of the bottom rope, setting off a huge pop in the stands of the Staples Center. Punk looks pissed and keeps the hold locked in despite the ref’s warning, and only lets it go at the count of four. The fans boo Punk as he stands back up and argues with the referee, and he then starts to stomp all over the worn out body of MVP to the extent that he forces the referee to warn him off once more. That doesn’t please Punk either, and he tries to get back to work, but the ref stands between him and the beaten up challenger.


The ref then turns round and checks on MVP as he uses the ropes to help him to his feet, and Punk doesn’t wait around in walking over to him, but Porter fights him off with an elbow to the side of his head, sending Punk back pedalling away from the ropes momentarily. As the World Champion walks back at him, MVP steps away and hits him with a SPINNING CAPOEIRA KICK. . . . . That sends Punk in to even more of a spin, and it allows MVP to respond by taking him down with a SWINGING NECKBREAKER. . . . . The fans like that and it shows as a cheer breaks out with MVP looking to wrap it up there and then, turning over and crawling across to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Punk gets the shoulder up, but despite looking disappointed at first, MVP gets back to work straight away.


He stands up and turns back in to the ropes, and as he comes back, he stops dead by Punk’s body and gets the crowd going once again by taunting Punk for the BALLIN’ ELBOW. . . . . Porter then drops the elbow down on to Punk’s chest to a pop from the crowd. MVP stands back up looking very focused as Punk sits back up, and Porter looks to finish it, backing away from the champion before running back and looking to hit the DRIVE-BY. . . . . But Punk ducks his head with MVP hitting the deck. We hear sighs coming from the crowd, and both men try to sit up looking worn out, but it’s Punk on his feet first. MVP isn’t far behind, but as he turns round, Punk bends down and lifts him on to his shoulders for the GO-TO-SLEEP. . . . .


The fans boo frantically, but luckily MVP is able to slide down to safety and reacts quickly to plant Punk with a REVERSE DDT. . . . . More cheers break out in the crowd as MVP then crawls across and hooks the leg with the ref rushing over to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Punk kicks out, leaving his challenger frustrated. It seems to fire him up even more and he stands up, urging Punk back up. He doesn’t have to wait too long as he rolls on to one knee close to the ropes, and MVP strikes there and then, pulling him in to position once again for the PLAYMAKER. . . . . Punk reaches to the side and grabs the top rope, holding on to it for dear life.


He then drives his other arm in to the MVP’s head, forcing him to relinquish the grip and sending him away from the ropes. Punk recovers by the ropes as MVP shakes off the cobwebs for a second before running back at the World Champion, who steps out and explodes with a ROUNDHOUSE KICK. . . . . MVP just collapses in a heap, and Punk reacts instantly, reaching down to drag him back up. He lifts him up on to his shoulders and plants him with the GTS. . . . . MVP’s head just bounces off Punk’s knee, and Punk drops down and hooks the leg as the ref counts MVP’s shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, and still the World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk @ 19.38.

AFTERMATH: “This Fire Burns” hits to heat from the Los Angeles fans, but Punk shrugs it off with a smirk as the referee collects his belt and takes it over to him. He hands it over and lifts Punk’s arm up in the air, and Punk’s smug grin gets even bigger as he holds his belt high up in the air. He then walks over to the ropes and holds it aloft, taunting the fans before dropping it down on to his shoulder and leaving the ring with the same smug look of satisfaction on his face as he walks up the ramp. As he gets to the top, he turns round to face the ring and holds the belt up once again, this time with both hands while still looking extremely pleased with himself as MVP comes round in the ring.


{Cut Backstage}​

Maria is standing by.

Maria: Please welcome my guest at this time. . . one of the finalists in tonight’s King of the Ring final, Shelton Benjamin.

Shelton Benjamin appears in the shot with the United States Championship resting on his shoulder as the camera zooms out, looking very serious indeed.

Maria: Shelton. . .

Shelton Benjamin: . . . Maria, let me take care of this ‘cause there ain’t any questions left, just answers. . . I said I’d win this whole thing, and I’m just one match away from doin’ just that. But y’know what else I’m lookin’ forward to? . . . I’ve got the chance t’ show Matt Sydal, and everyone else for that matter that win he got over me the other week was nothin’ more than a fluke. Lightning doesn’t strike twice Maria, an’ it’ll be The Gold Standard that strikes a shot o’ reality t’ stop this Matt Sydal bandwagon once an’ for all right here t’night. And when I’m done doin’ that, CM Punk better take notice ‘cause I’m not gonna settle for just bein’ the United States Champion and the King of the Ring. . . See, I want the big prize. . . Imagine it Maria at The Great American Bash, champion versus champion with it all on the line. That’s what I call a headliner, an’ that’s what I’ll be come the end of t’night when I’m announced as King. . . King Benjamin.

Benjamin smiles, liking the sound of that before turning away looking very confident as he walks out of the shot.


*Video Promo*
“Move To The Music” by American Bang
Images: CM Punk cashing in the Money in the Bank contract at Judgment Day, taking Shawn Michaels by surprise and hitting the GTS out of nowhere to become the World Heavyweight Champion, after Michaels’ victory over The Undertaker. Punk’s celebrations are then shown as well as his defeat of The Heartbreak Kid on Smackdown five days later to retain his title. The video ends with location shots of Punk posing with the world title belt before cutting to the poster below.

Voiceover: “One man’s crusade to become champion and fulfil a lifelong dream went according to his underhand plan, but as champion, life is far from a dream. . . With his back against the wall, he will have to fight for his life to hold on to what he holds dear at The Great American Bash. . . The Great American Bash comes to you exclusively live, Sunday July 13th on pay-per-view from the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York.”


Michael Cole: The great thing about The Great American Bash folks is that if you’ve ordered the King of the Ring t’night and will also be ordering Vengeance in two week’s time, you will get The Great American Bash completely free of charge. All you have t’ do is contact your local pay-per-view provider for more details.


*Video Recap*
Raw (28/4) – 6 Weeks Ago:
Eric Bischoff announcing that there would be a Quest to be Champion tournament to decide who would face Kane for the WWE Championship at the King of the Ring.
Raw (12/5) – 5 Weeks Ago: Jeff Hardy returning to Raw and beating Lance Cade before being told by Eric Bischoff that he would be taking on JBL a week later as part of ‘Quest to be Champion’.
Raw (19/5) – 4 Weeks Ago: Jeff defeating JBL to advance to the semi finals after a swanton bomb.
Raw (26/5) – 3 Weeks Ago: The semi final match between Jeff & Rey Mysterio with Jeff coming out on top, and later being warned by Paul Bearer in the back about the prospect of facing Kane.
Raw (2/6) – 2 Weeks Ago: The final of ‘Quest to be Champion’ with Jeff beating Mr. Kennedy thanks to Randy Orton coming out of the crowd to RKO Kennedy. Kane then coming down after the bell and attacking Jeff, standing over him and setting his pyro off.
Raw (9/6) – Last Week: Jeff facing Randy Orton in a No Holds Barred match, ending with Kane getting involved, pulling Jeff down off a ladder only for Jeff to fight back and smash Kane in the head with the ladder, sending him off the stage and through empty boxes below. Jeff then climbing up the scaffolding by the side of the stage before leaping off and hitting a swanton bomb through all the wreckage. EMT’s then coming out and checking on both men with neither moving at the end of the show.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match 9***



WWE Championship
Jeff Hardy vs Kane (c) w/Paul Bearer
ENDING: With Jeff struggling to his feet, the WWE Champion lurks dangerously close by, getting ready to pounce, and he does just that as Jeff stands back up only to walk right in to an uppercut thrust. That sends Jeff back pedalling, and The Big Red Machine grabs his wrist straight away to whip him hard in to the corner. Jeff’s back is thrust right in to the pads, and as he slowly walks out with agony written all over his face, Kane walks towards him, lifts him off the ground and plants him with a SIDEWALK SLAM. . . . . Jeff’s back is driven in to the mat, but Kane doesn’t appear to be done there as he returns to his feet, allowing Jeff to roll on to one side while the monster walks towards the corner and makes his way up to the top rope.


With Kane climbing up to the summit, Jeff once again struggles to make it back up, and as he turns round, Kane leaps off the top and connects with a FLYING CLOTHESLINE. . . . . The ring continues to shake after Kane just hit the mat with Jeff, and the defending champion doesn’t waste any time in standing back up. Jeff isn’t far behind, but as he gets to his knees, Kane reaches down and grabs him with two hands across the throat. He then lifts him up in the air while sustaining to the two handed choke lift, trying to make Jeff submit. The crowd try to get a reaction out of Jeff, cheering “Hardy, Hardy” continuously, and it looks to be having an effect as Jeff stays strong with Paul Bearer looking slightly concerned on the outside.


Kane holds on tight though, not making life easy at all for Jeff, but the challenger fights back, kicking his legs and trying to free himself, managing to do so as he then lands on his feet. Kane then throws a right hand with Jeff successfully ducking it and running in to the corner with Kane following behind, and Jeff takes him by surprise, exploding with the WHISPER IN THE WIND. . . . . That gets the crowd going even more, cheering like crazy as both men return to a vertical base. Jeff’s the one who gets up first, and as Kane turns round to face his challenger, he is met with a swift SIT OUT JAWBREAKER. . . . . That gets a big pop too, and Jeff doesn’t look like he’s prepared to waste the opportunity as he scurries across to hook The Big Red Machine’s leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


Sighs of disappointment echo around the arena as Jeff leans back looking slightly disappointed too, but the sight of Kane rolling on to one knee forces him back in to action. As he stands back up with Kane on one leg, Jeff turns back to run the ropes, and as he comes back with Kane now fully upright, he sends the monster right back down with a SPINNING WHEEL KICK. . . . . With the crowd cheering once more, Jeff stands back up with Kane also returning to his feet. Hardy turns back and runs in to the ropes again, and as he runs back at Kane, The Big Red Machine steps forward to lift Jeff up off his feet and nail him with a TILT-A-WHIRL SLAM. . . . . Gasps ring round the Staples Center as Jeff rolls around in agony until pulls him on to his back and goes for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


Jeff fights back and lifts his shoulder up to the relief of the crowd, but Kane’s not that impressed as he stands back up and does a cut throat signal while Jeff rolls on to his side. With Kane stalking him as he slowly climbs on to one knee, Jeff unwittingly picks himself up and then turns round in to the WWE Champion who scoops him off his feet. He lifts him on to his shoulder, trying to set him up for a TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER. . . . . The nervousness of the fans is clear, but Jeff shows his determination and digs deep, sliding down Kane’s back and shocks Kane by hitting a ONE ARM SLEEPER SLAM. . . . . Jeff is still feeling the effects of the match, and it takes him several seconds to respond, but by then, Kane also starts to stand back up.


As they meet standing in front of each other, Jeff grabs Kane by the arm and tries to whip the big man in to the corner. Kane’s not having it and demonstrates his strength advantage by reversing it and sending Jeff in to the corner instead. The Charismatic Enigma doesn’t hit the pads that hard, and as Kane runs in at him, Hardy steps out of the corner and to the side with Kane running in to the pads chest first. Cheers ring round once again, and as Kane turns round and staggers out of the corner, Jeff kicks him hard in the gut, pulls Kane’s head under his arm, setting him up for the TWIST OF FATE. . . . . But Kane’s shows he has just as much fight as Jeff as he shoves Jeff in to the ropes, and nails him as he comes back by driving his boot right down Jeff’s throat.


The sighs we heard earlier make another appearance as Jeff lies helpless on the mat with Kane then lifting his right arm up in to the air to the approval of Bearer, who smiles away in his son’s corner. Slowly but surely, Jeff sits back up despite looking very frosty, but as he attempts to stand up, the fans cautiousness is obvious with Kane lying in wait right behind him. As the still dazed Jeff turns round, Kane grabs him by the throat and lifts him up in to the air for a CHOKESLAM. . . . . Jeff manages to slip down however and land on his feet, catching Kane off guard and he then kicks him in the gut before grabbing him by the head, and this time he explodes with the TWIST OF FATE. . . . . Roars echo all around the arena as Jeff reacts quickly, scurrying round on the canvas to turn Kane on to his back and make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


No! Kane just gets his shoulder up to the shock of both Jeff and the crowd. Bearer’s beaming on the outside as Jeff pulls himself back up to his knees and holds his head in his hands. As he pulls his hands back down, he sees Kane rolling on to his side. Jeff then sees he has to act quickly and rushes back up to his feet, then pulls his vest off and throws it out of the ring to a huge pop as Kane makes it back up. He turns in to another kick to the gut from Jeff, who plants him with another TWIST OF FATE. . . . . They both hit the mat with Kane rolling closer to the corner and the ropes while the crowd all rise to their feet, as does Jeff who heads right in to the corner, racing to climb all the way up to the dizzy heights of the top rope with the WWE Champion laying beneath him.


With the fans cheering him on, Jeff then leaps off the top and hits the SWANTON BOMB. . . . . It could be all over as Jeff scurries back across and hooks the closest leg with the referee rushing across to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Kane gets his foot on the rope, and the referee looks up in time to see the foot resting there to prevent a three count. The boos are deafening as Jeff sits back up in shock, looking towards Bearer who is standing by the ropes in front of him. Jeff suspects there’s something fishy going on, but he pulls Kane away from the ropes slightly and hooks both legs this time for another pin attempt. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kane kicks out, and Jeff looks frustrated as hell as he sits up to see Bearer grinning on the outside, suspecting he had something to do with Kane’s foot being on the rope. Jeff isn’t pleased at all and upon standing back up, he walks over to the ropes after Bearer has turned his back to wind up the crowd.


Jeff then reaches over the top rope and down to grab Bearer by the head, trying to drag him up, but it isn’t working because of Bearer’s substantial weight. He decides to let go, and Bearer turns round to shout angrily at Jeff as The Big Red Machine sits up behind him and sharply makes his way on to both feet. Bearer smirks, resulting in Jeff sensing something’s wrong. He turns back round and runs at Kane, but right in to the monster’s huge right hand and a huge CHOKESLAM. . . . . Jeff lies out of it on the mat, but Kane isn’t done as he signals for the end once again with a cutthroat gesture and then reaches down to drag Jeff right back up. He scoops the non-responsive challenger on to his shoulder easily and then lowers him down his chest to then drill him with the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER. . . . . The WWE Champion then crosses both of Jeff’s arms as the ref drops to his knees and makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: By pinfall, and still WWE Champion, Kane @ 20.26.

AFTERMATH: “Burned” blasts out to heat from the crowd as Bearer walks towards the ring steps and walks up them to join Kane in the ring, who is then passed his WWE Championship belt by the referee. Bearer then straps the belt around his son’s waist before The Big Red Machine raises both his arms up in to the air and then brings them down to set off his deafening pyro in all four corners of the ring. Bearer continues to laugh throughout and then leads his son out of the ring with Kane climbing over the top rope while Bearer walks down the steps.

They meet by the ramp and walk up it to boos from the angry fans as Jeff starts to come round in the ring, moving his head ever so slightly. As Bearer & Kane get to the top of the ramp, Bearer turns round while Kane barely turns his head to see Jeff trying to sit up, looking a bit groggy. Bearer smirks before turning back to walk to the back, followed by Kane, whose music cuts. Jeff then struggles up to his feet and gets a big cheer from the crowd as he does so. He thanks them for their support by clapping, and he gets an even bigger pop in the process.

Jim Ross: You have t’ feel for Jeff Hardy t’night King. He gave it his all, and on another night, he might just have won the WWE Championship.

Jerry Lawler: I don’t know J R, but you have t’ give Jeff all the credit in the world for putting up one hell of a fight here t’night. It just goes t’ show it’s gonna be one hell of a challenge for anyone t’ beat the big red machine and take away his WWE Championship.


*Video Promo*“Hell Yeah” by Rev Theory

Images: Batista & Ric Flair coming to Triple H’s aid back on Raw before WrestleMania, helping him fight off JBL & The McMahon’s. Evolution reuniting and defeating The McMahon Men at WrestleMania, followed by The Big Show’s return at Backlash to help The McMahon’s gain revenge. Evolution decimating Vince & Shane McMahon on Raw a while back, ending with The Corporation retaliating in a parking lot attack on Triple H & Ric Flair, resulting in Show chokeslamming them both on car bonnets.

Voiceover: “Three friends reunited to fight one man’s battle. Now they find themselves in the line of fire once more. Together they must stand to fight off one common enemy. . . one Vengeance. . . Vengeance comes to you exclusively live, Sunday June 29th from the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan, only on pay-per-view.”


Jim Ross: Like Michael Cole said earlier folks, for those that have ordered the King of the Ring and plan on ordering Vengeance in two weeks. . . you will be able to watch The Great American Bash for absolutely nothing. . . All you have t’ do is contact your local pay-per-view provider for more details on how t’ take up this amazing offer.


*Video Promo*​


Michael Cole: Well this is what it all comes down to folks, the moment we’ve all been waiting for. It’s time t’ find out who will become the 2008 WWE King of the Ring.


{Cut to Ringside}


***The Main Event***



King of the Ring Tournament Final
Matt Sydal vs Shelton Benjamin​
ENDING: Both men make a slow return to a vertical base while looking worse for wear, and it’s Sydal out of the two that strikes the first blow, hitting a right hand and then goes to follow up with a martial arts kick. As Sydal’s boot comes in to contact with Shelton’s body, The Gold Standard grabs his foot, quickly lets go and spins Sydal round to shock him with a DRAGON WHIP. . . . . The United States Champion picks himself back up, but Sydal is also close behind him. Shelton turns him round and whips him in to the ropes, and as Sydal comes back off the ropes, he leapfrogs Shelton and runs through in to the opposite set of ropes. This time as he comes back, Shelton turns round, ducks down and lifts Sydal on to his shoulder before sending him crashing down to the mat courtesy of a SAMOAN DROP. . . . .


The impact can be felt as Sydal tries to sit up to take the pressure off his back, but Benjamin is having none of it. He shuffles round on the mat and shoves him back down so that he can make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Sydal lives to fight another day, getting his shoulder up to the slight frustration of The Gold Standard. He stands back up as Sydal rolls on to one side, and Shelton decides to take a walk over to the ropes. He steps through them and watches on from the apron while clutching the top rope as Sydal tries to get back up. As Sydal manages to steady himself, Shelton then springboards off the top and hits a SPRINGBOARD CLOTHESLINE. . . . .


Sydal hits the deck once again with Shelton falling too, but the United States Champion looks incredibly serious, and he appears to be on a mission as he returns to his feet and retreats to the corner, stalking Sydal. Benjamin lunges forward and urges his opponent up, and Sydal does just that with his opponent not too far behind him and ready to pounce. Sydal then slowly and unwittingly turns round with Shelton charging right at him for the PAY DIRT. . . . . Sydal sees it coming though in time and steps to the side as Shelton runs past him but manages to put the brakes on before he hits the corner. As he then turns round and runs back, Sydal demonstrates his quick reactions by hitting him with a LEG LARIAT. . . . .


Shelton’s the one who hits the deck this time, and Sydal senses an opportunity as he stands back up with Shelton getting to his knees. Sydal helps him up and sends him back down in to a seated position this time with a snap mare, then follows up by running forward in to the ropes, races back and nails Shelton with a seated dropkick right to the face. That forces Shelton back, and Sydal looks to take advantage by shimmying round to hook the leg to try for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Shelton gets his shoulder up, but Sydal isn’t moping around at all. He stands back up and reaches down to drag the United States Champion closer to the corner. Sydal then steps through the ropes and climbs all the way up to the top with the crowd cheering, knowing what he has in mind with Shelton squirming as he lies on the mat.


Sydal stands above him and leaps off the top, looking to hit the SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . But no, Benjamin just rolls closer in to the corner as Sydal crash lands on the mat with a very sore chest. They both then try and make it back up with Shelton up a second ahead of Sydal, allowing him to walk out of the corner and closer towards his opponent. Sydal spots him coming though and throws a wild right that Shelton is able to duck and quickly counter with a T-BONE SUPLEX. . . . . That came right out of nowhere, and Sydal is flat out by the looks of things. Shelton sits up and takes a quick breather before hooking the leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Sydal somehow got his shoulder up, resulting in a massive cheer from the fans. Shelton sits up in absolute shock. He can’t believe it, but the momentary delay may just have helped Sydal.


The look of sheer amazement on Shelton’s face tells its own story, but it quickly turns to sheer frustration as he stands back up and tries to pull Sydal back up. As he reaches down though, Sydal catches him by surprise as he sits up and rolls him in to an INSIDE CRADLE. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kick Out! The two wannabe Kings hurry back up as quickly as they can, and as Shelton turns round, Sydal reacts quickly to take him down to the mat with a drop toe hold. Sydal rushes back up to his feet once again and stands above Shelton’s body for a moment before hitting a STANDING MOONSAULT TO THE BACK OF BENJAMIN. . . . . Sydal shimmies round and turns him on to his back before hooking the leg in order to try for a pin as the ref rushes down to his knees to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .


Shelton kicks out and sits up quickly with Sydal then standing back up. With Shelton close to getting back up, Sydal just watches on and gets ready to strike, and he does just that by hitting a FEINT ENZIGURI IN TO A HEAD SCISSORS TAKEDOWN. . . . . The crowd like that and a pop breaks out, but as both men make an attempt to stand back up, Shelton turns round in to Sydal once again and allows Sydal to jump up and connect with a HURRICANRANA. . . . . The cheers get even louder as the crowd as Sydal desperately holds on to both of Shelton’s legs as the referee dashes across to count Benjamin’s shoulders once again. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .

No! We hear sighs coming from the crowd as Shelton kicks out. Sydal stands back up and tries to pull Benjamin back up, but The Gold Standard sits up and shoves him back and down to the mat. He’s not down for long, but as he gets up, Shelton also stands up and takes Sydal’s head off with a SUPER KICK. . . . . The thud sounded sickening as Sydal just falls back with the United States Champion slowly dropping to his knees, looking tired before leaning forward and hooking Sydal’s leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No, shoulder up once more! Sydal just saves himself, but maybe only for a short while as Shelton leans back on to his knees in shock. He doesn’t know what he needs to do put this man away. He then stands back up and pulls the glazed over Sydal back up with him, then whips him hard in to the corner. Benjamin takes a second before then running in at him for a STINGER SPLASH. . . . .

But no, Sydal steps to the side as Shelton jumps right on to the turnbuckle pads. That raises another cheer from the pro Sydal crowd. Sydal shifts behind Benjamin, and as Shelton turns round and staggers out of the corner, Sydal grabs him around the upper body and plants him with the CYCLORAMA (Overhead Belly to Belly Moonsault Slam). . . . . The crowd are going nuts, but they get even louder as Sydal hurries to his feet and drags the United States Champion in to the corner. He then races all the way up to the top rope with the entire crowd rising to its feet, watching on as Sydal leaps up in to the sky and comes down to connect with the SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . He got all of it and lands right on top of Benjamin, reaches across and hooks the leg as the ref rushes over to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3. . . . . It’s over! He’s done it!


WINNER: By pinfall, Matt Sydal @ 18.41.

AFTERMATH: “Axeman” hits to an enormous pop with Sydal just dropping his head in to his hands in absolute shock. He can’t believe what he’s just accomplished, but as he sits back up with a slight tear in his eye, he sees the crowd all on their feet, applauding his incredible victory. He then stands up with a huge smile on his face and gets his arm raised as Justin Roberts announces him as the 2008 WWE King of the Ring. It’s clearly an emotional moment for Sydal, who drops to his knees again and looks up to the sky, not seeming to believe it himself while the crowd continue to cheer. He then stands back up, smiling as he walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, throwing his arms up in to the air to the delight of the ecstatic crowd in Los Angeles.

He then does the same in all four corners, and as he gets to the final one, a huge pyro display takes place on the stage with Sydal turning to look up, shaking his head and smiling at the same time. However, Shelton Benjamin looks on with absolute contempt as he walks round to the ramp, but Sydal seems too caught up in the moment to notice him. He then steps down off the ropes and walks back in to the middle of the ring, dropping down to his knees once again with the camera zooming in on the look of disbelief on his face as the show comes to a close.

Matt Striker: Unbelievable Michael. Matt Sydal has done the unthinkable.

Michael Cole: I’m speechless. We all knew this kid had talent, but he’s shown everyone here t’night that he has more than that. He has heart, belief, determination, and right now he’s in dreamland, because he has just won the 2008 WWE King of the Ring.

Matt Striker: What a moment this if for this gifted young superstar. He’s accomplished something incredibly special here t’night, and this could well be just the start of a glittering future.

Michael Cole: It’s clear for us all t’ see just how much it means t’ him, and I’m pretty sure it’ll take a while t’ sink in for him, and everyone for that matter that Matt Sydal is the King of the Ring. . . Thanks for joining us on this very special night here in the Staples Center. . . Good night everyone.


{End of Show}

PREDICTION RESULTS
Rated-R Champ – 5/7
sc2004 – 5/7

jman619hbk – 4/7
D-K-L – 4/7
Bradley – 4/7
The+King_of_Kings – 4/7

Nabz23 – 2.5/7

FlyinStyles – 2/7


:ns Don’t be an idiot! No one line spoilers or spam please.​


 
#1,270 ·
FlyinStyles Monday Night Raw Review

Alright I'll be reviewing your recap shows different then I would the fully written ones just because I don't feel like I can judge the writing of a recapped thread. So basically the review will be just about the booking

The opening promo was interesting, first off it was good that you actaully made the WWE Championship look like a big deal because you did nothing with it when Kane had it. Flair introducing Batista was a nice touch, but Batista not being able to find the words wasn't. I know WWE books him that way but it makes come off as a pussy animal. I still think he needs to turn heel not Triple H, he just doesn't have the charasma to be face. Kane and Bearer putting their careers now the line? Well they're obviously going to lose so I'm interested to see if you actaully fire them.

Melina wins a squash, ok. You said she retained in the match but billed it as a non-title match so i dont get that. Natayla attacking her is fine. But where's Victoria in all this it seems like she's just an after thought and she doesn't give a shit

Triple H's apology I'm pretty sure is an act, it could last two or three weeks but it will end eventaully. Triple H will turn on Evoltion soon enough I guess keeping him face for a little longer is fine

DiBiase wins a squash against Goldust, finally Goldust is a jobber. What he should be. he attacks the king, ugh. I hope this fued isn't long lasting maybe just one squash for Teddy over King but this fued shouldn't last. Espacailly if you really do have "big plans" for him


Ted Sr. wants Ted Jr. to be IC champ interesting, so I'm guessing thats Kofi's next production, which I'm fine with, I expected his next to be Kendrick but DiBiase is fine. Then Daddy makes Ted his bitch, interesting, I'm wondering if you have a match between them down the road too. That'd be interesting

The return of the McMahon's ok...So Bischoff is out? I thought Vince lost his power he can't do that can he? I knew he had the thing with Regal but he can't fire Bischoff. Then they destory Kozlov, that's fine. I just hope Kozlov just fades down into FCW or gets released because if he turns face it will be pointless because it's not like he can cut a promo or anything. Nicely booked segemnt. Bischoff being gone intreagues me.

KK, the Bischoff is still the boss but he's on thin ice with Linda, by the way the one thing I don't get about every Linda takes Vince's power away angle and every thread has one. Can't Vince fire her or just plain divorce her? Seriously. I think Bischoff will lose his job soon to Regal. Vince will make it happen.

An open challenge from Kendrick, cool. I like it Matt Hardy I like it even more him winning is fine it seems like Kendrick is going to get a push or some worthwhile storyline. I actaully hope Matt comes on Raw more often just because he's going nowhere on Smackdown after his fued with Punk got scrapped.

Orton wants a title shot, ok. Bischoff tells him why he shouldn't get one. It seems like Bischoff is going to snap soon. I think Orton may get like a title shot on Raw and Kennendy will eff it up or something. But for now this is fine I like angery Orton it's cool.

The McMahon's meet up again if Linda is such a bitch and a pain and Vince's ass why can't he just divorce her and throw her out of the company. It seems like Regal is going to be GM soon, possibly Linda turning heel which would be something we've never seen before

Cryme Time gets the rematch out of the way. The Miz and Morrison break up wasn't hard to see coming after the PPv and it appears JoMo turns face in the process which is cool. I like it and it should be a good fued, I'm assuing they'll have a match at SummerSlam which ought to be good another good midcard fued for Raw.

So Coperation breaks their relationship was Regal before it even kicks off thats weird. By the way it's weird how the one night we should get Evoltion shoved down our throats like we normally do they aren't there. Too much McMahon's for one night

The Orton interfearence wasn't needed espacailly if it was just to draw out Evolution who could've just been there any way. Triple H's heel turn wasn't shocked I was a little suprised he killed Flair though. Any way good way to end the show so it looks like it will be Hunter vs. Dave at SummerSlam

Overall I've got to say it was a good show but there should've been more Evolution and less McMahons. Several good spots I really liked the Ted parts. Overall I'll say 7.5/10
 
#1,287 ·
”WWE Superstars” Results
Saturday 12th July 2008
Kay Yeager Coliseum, Wichita Falls, Texas




*Video Recap*
>The Empire's WWE debut on Smackdown 15 days ago and attacking MVP in the ring, followed up by MVP's response a week later and telling them to be at Superstars last week.
>MVP then calling them out last week and The Empire (Drew McIntyre, Stu Sanders & Katie Lee) responding by calling him a bad role model for kids across the world and attacking him again.


Match #1
Tommy Dreamer & Super Crazy vs. The Empire (w/Katie Lee)

McIntyre & Sanders were fairly dominant and very impressive, working well to isolate Crazy and halt any momentum Dreamer managed to get going with Katie Lee also getting in on the act, distracting Dreamer and grabbing his boot at one point as he hit the ropes, allowing Sanders to recover and take Dreamer down with a huge boot as the former ECW Champion then turned back and ran at him. Sanders then tagged in McIntyre and sent Crazy flying off the apron to the floor below as McIntyre finished Dreamer with swinging side slam into a sit-out facebuster.

Winners: The Empire.


Chavo Guerrero was interviewed by Josh Matthews and asked how he felt about Tazz making his match at The Great American Bash with Ron Killings tomorrow night a streetfight. Chavo asked Josh whether he assumed that the change favoured Killings, because if he did he was wrong. Guerrero explained that he's just as tough as Killings and that he had to fight on the streets of Mexico as a kid, and that he showed Killings on Smackdown the night before just what he's capable of when there are no rules in place. He then said that being handcuffed and at his mercy as well as what he was going to do against Eugene later on is just a preview of what he has in store for Killings tomorrow night at The Bash, and he then told Josh to come find him after he destroys Killings and ask him again whether he thinks the streetfight is right up Killings' street or his, because he sure as hell won't be able to ask Killings.


{Commercial Break}


*Video Promo*
>Raw Rebound<
>Eric Bischoff suspending Triple H for attacking a referee after the show went off the air the week before and laying down the law.
>Triple H being escorted out of the arena and then being confronted by Ric Flair & Batista before Batista got Flair to back down.
>Bischoff rumbling The Corporation & William Regal in conspiring against him, resulting in Bischoff firing Regal.
>Regal going to The Corporation and telling them that he'd been fired, leaving them to come to a decision that they needed a quick and effective plan to deal with Bischoff.
>Randy Orton going to Bischoff and demanding a shot at the WWE Championship, seemingly threatening him in the process with Bischoff then giving him a shot at Batista but in non-title action.
>Orton's match with Batista and the surprise return of Triple H who blasted Batista & Flair with a sledgehammer.
>The camera cutting to the back and showing a bloody and laid out Eric Bischoff with help rushing to him while The Game smiled in the ring at the sight of Bischoff laying helpless.



*Video Recap*

>From Smackdown last night and Chavo Guerrero's attack on Ron Killings after his match and handcuffing him to the rope with Tazz then announcing that their match at The Great American Bash will be a streetfight, ending with Chavo spitting on Killings.


Match #2
Eugene (w/Goldust) vs. Chavo Guerrero

Chavo started the match on fire, being very aggressive in working the corners initially and pounding Eugene with some stiff shots to the head and body. He was warned by the referee and got both distracted and annoyed by Goldust telling the ref to deal with his aggression. Eugene took advantage and got back in to the match until Chavo dodged a People's Elbow and followed up with the Three Amigo's and then a brainbuster. He then went on top and hit the Frog Splash to pick up a solid victory going in to The Great American Bash. Just as Chavo stood up and got his arm raised, Ron Killings ran down the aisle and towards the ring. Chavo turned in time and then urged him in, but as Killings slid in and rose to his feet, Chavo turned to the side and escaped under the bottom rope, leaving Killings fuming in the ring and calling for Chavo to get back in, but The Mexican Warrior backed up to the ramp looking fairly cool and amused at frustrating Killings.

Winner: Chavo Guerrero.


Ted DiBiase & Maryse were interviewed by Todd Grisham with Grisham asking him how he felt about facing Smackdown's Elijah Burke in a matter of moments. DiBiase said the match was the last thing on his mind since Eric Bischoff brought his dad back to Raw and made his life hell by doing so. Grisham quickly cut in and asked DiBiase that based on his frustration with his dad being brought in whether he was responsible in taking that frustration out on Eric Bischoff. DiBiase was livid and so was Maryse, and it was the Million Dollar Woman that spoke up for her boyfriend. She told Grisham that he should be careful about what he was saying as they could throw a lawsuit his way and take everything he has even though she doubts it’s that much. DiBiase Jr stared right at Grisham and told him he should listen to Maryse before walking out of the shot, followed by his angry girlfriend, leaving a worried Grisham behind with a lot to think about.


{Commercial Break}


*Video Promo*
>Smackdown Rewind<
>CM Punk's interview and letting the worldwide audience know that he's going to prove he is a deserving World Champion by walking in and out of The Great American Bash with the world title in his possession.
>The main event tag team match with The Undertaker & Christian facing Chris Jericho & Edge, refereed by CM Punk, ending in Punk grabbing a chair away from the irate Edge (that was placed in the ring by Jericho) and blasting The Rated-R Superstar in the head with it, allowing Christian to pick up the win.
>Punk leaving the ring with his world title and staring back at Christian & The Undertaker.





Match #3
Elijah Burke (w/Layla) vs. Ted DiBiase Jr (w/Maryse)

DiBiase's anger from Monday night and earlier on was obvious, and Burke took advantage of the unusually erratic display by taking charge of the match after a flying shoulder tackle and rolling german suplexes. Burke whipped DiBiase in to the ropes later on, but his Raw opponent kicked him square in the head after Burke lowered it. However as DiBiase turned back and ran the ropes again, Burke reacted well to lift him off his feet and plant him with a lifting sit-down spinebuster, but DiBiase kicked out at 2 to the obvious relief of Maryse on the outside. Burke was then able to hit the Elijah Express, but as he was getting ready to set DiBiase up for the Elijah Experience, Dolph Ziggler made his way down to the ring and split his attention between Burke & Layla, winking at Burke's girlfriend. Burke lost his focus and let go of DiBiase to walk over to the ropes and tell Ziggler to get away from Layla, but he protested his innocence, earning a slap from Layla that amused Burke. Ziggler was furious, but his mood turned as DiBiase sneaked up behind Burke, spun him round and took him down with Dream Street to pick up the victory. DiBiase wasn't in the mood to celebrate and left the ring straight away with Maryse as Ziggler laughed at Layla going to Burke's aid, and neither were pleased with his presence as Superstars drew to a close.

Winner: Ted DiBiase Jr.



{End of Show}


Quick Results​
The Empire df. Tommy Dreamer & Super Crazy
Chavo Guerrero df. Eugene
Ted DiBiase Jr df. Elijah Burke

Dark Match
Kaval df. Kid Kash


 
#1,383 ·
WWE SummerSlam 2008
Sunday August 17, 2008
Live from the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California




*Opening Video*

Narrator:
The hottest night of the year. . .

‘The Animal’ Batista raising the WWE Championship defiantly.

Narrator: The biggest event of the summer. . .

John Cena hitting the stage on his return to Raw last month.

Narrator: The chance for young warriors to become superstars. . .

The stunned Matt Sydal’s reaction after winning the King of the Ring and John Morrison laying out The Miz with a super kick on Raw at the top of the stage.

Narrator: Their dreams can be realised on this night where titles will be decided. . .

CM Punk celebrating with the World Heavyweight Championship belt after cashing in the Money in the Bank at Judgment Day. Shelton Benjamin posing with the United States Championship at The Great American Bash having won the scramble match to retain the title.

Narrator: . . . where careers may be ended. . .

‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair walking out in to an arena in his robe, letting out a big WOO!

Narrator: . . . the career of the greatest of all time. . .

Flair styling and profiling down to the ring at WrestleMania XX.

Narrator: The Nature Boy will fight for his life for the right to save his career, an illustrious career. . .

Flair struggling to stand up after his epic cage match with Harley Race, covered in blood, then chopping the hell out of Randy Orton’s bare chest inside a steel cage at Taboo Tuesday 2004.

Narrator: . . .an illustrious career that has stretched across four decades.

Images of the ageing Flair flash across those many decades.

Narrator: A career that boasts an unrivalled sixteen world titles. . .

Flair lifting the NWA Heavyweight Championship, then the WCW Championship and being passed what was the WWF Championship after winning the 1993 Royal Rumble.

Narrator: A career that could end on this night. . .

Flair being stabbed in the back by Triple H the night after Vengeance, falling victim to a pedigree with The King of Kings glaring down remorselessly at him.

Narrator: A night that becomes the most important of this legend’s career.

*Last Monday night on Raw, the contract signing.

Ric Flair: You might think it’s time for me t’ walk away in t’ the sunset, and I admit that I’ve thought about the possibility my career could come to an end at SummerSlam. I’ve seriously considered that this might just be my last match, ‘an that’s a feeling that scares the hell out o’ me. But like I said before, there’s still life left in The Nature Boy yet, an’ if you don’t believe me, there’s only one way I can show you.

Flair pushes the table over, steps forward and nails Triple H with the microphone, sending him down to the mat. The Nature Boy then drops to his knees and hammers away at The King of Kings, but Tazz gets involved and pulls him off of Triple H. Flair watches on as his SummerSlam opponent rolls on to his side, and that gives him the opportunity to find the contract and sign it. He shoves it in to Tazz’s chest before going back over to Triple H, who gets to his knees and shoves Flair back in to Tazz, who falls to his knees.

Flair turns round in surprise, but it gives The King of Kings time to stand up and spin Flair round in to a Pedigree. Boos ring out as Triple H stands up and glares down at Flair, who’s not moving at all. Tazz is though and he doesn’t look happy. The temporary GM gets to his feet not looking too happy, and he has a go at The King of Kings, who then slowly turns his head to give him an incredibly dirty look.

Tazz isn’t intimidated though and continues giving Triple H the what for, but he’s regretting it now as Trips kicks him in the gut and drills him head first in to the canvas courtesy of a Pedigree. The English fans’ boos get even louder. They’re deafening in fact as Triple H looks up in to the stands and at the fans with Flair & Tazz motionless in the ring. It’s carnage and “King of Kings” blasts out, failing to cover up the boos as the remorseless Triple H stands tall in the ring assessing the damage.


{Cut to the Arena}

*Pyro*
*Pyro*
*Pyro*
*Pyro*


“Ready to Roll” by Jet Black


Jim Ross:
Welcome ev’ryone to SummerSlam on what truly is the hottest night of the summer. We come to you live from the sold out H P Pavilion in San Jose, California on what promises t’ be a historic night in the sunshine state. . . We’re joined by our colleagues from Smackdown, Michael Cole an’ Matt Striker.

Michael Cole: Thanks J R, we absolutely have an incredible line up from top t’ bottom where both titles and careers will be decided here t’night.

Matt Striker: That’s exactly right Michael, there is so much at stake here at SummerSlam this evening, especially when Ric Flair puts his career on the line against Triple H.

Jim Ross: An’ folks if you’ve not heard already, that match between Ric Flair an’ Triple H will now be a no holds barred match after what we saw on Raw Monday night. I don’t know about you guys, but I can’t help think that this puts the odds in favour of The King of Kings.

Ted DiBiase: I don’t know about that J R. I’ve seen Ric get down an’ dirty so many times throughout his career I don’t think it makes any diff’rence. After all, he’s known as the dirtiest player in the game for a reason.

Jim Ross: Well we’ll have to wait an’ see if The Nature Boy can fight to prolong his illustrious career f’ now. . .

“LISTEN, THIS AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE. . . COME ON, OPEN YOUR EYES AN’ SEE. . .”

John Morrison
hits the stage to a big pop from the California crowd. It’s slow motion time as The Shaman of Sexy poses at the top of the ramp with the fans still cheering. He then makes his way down to the ring with a big smile on his face, looking very pleased to be here, and as he gets in the ring, he walks over to Lilian Garcia and asks to borrow her microphone. She happily hands it over as Morrison then turns to face the camera and the music cuts.


John Morrison: Good evening CALIFORNIA!

*Big Pop*

John Morrison:
To be here t’night at SummerSlam and opening this amazing show in front of all of you is a dream come true.

*Pop*

John Morrison:
It’s moments like these that made me want t’ be a W W E superstar, but I’m not the only one. I’m not talking about my opponent t’night, I’m talking about a very special friend of mine, a friend of mine who shared the same dream as me. Those dreams came true at the same time, but unfortunately, that dream was taken away from him. T’night though, I’ve invited him t’ join me in my corner, and I can’t tell you how excited I am t’ have him here with me. You might remember him from season three of Tough Enough where he and I both won W W E contracts. I know him as my good buddy, so please give a warm California welcome to MATT CAPPOTELLI!

Out walks the casually dressed Matt Cappotelli with the fans applauding him as he strolls down to the ring, most unsure of who he is but still being polite while Morrison smiles and claps as he watches his friend make his way down the ramp. He smiles and acknowledges the fans’ by raising his arm as he climbs up the steps and joins Morrison in the ring, then gives him a guy hug.

“AWE-SOME. . . I CAME TO, CAME T’ PLAY, THERE’S A PRICE T’ PAY. . .”

*Major Heat*

‘Mr. Hollywood’ The Miz
walks out to the stage looking very smug with Morrison & Cappotelli watching on from the ring. The Miz doesn’t look too bothered by Cappotelli’s presence and is even smirking in their direction. As he gets in the ring, he sni-ggers at them and turns his back on them. He then walks over to the ropes and taunts the crowd, getting even more boos thrown at him with Morrison & Cappotelli looking unimpressed behind him. The Miz then turns round and focuses on his opponent as Cappotelli then leaves the ring and finds himself a spot on the floor with a good view.



*The Opening Match*



John Morrison w/Matt Cappotelli vs. The Miz

Last 10 Minutes:
The Miz reaches down and pulls his opponent up from his knees, and despite looking a little shaky, Morrison catches The Miz by surprise and whips him in to the ropes. Miz hits the ropes and comes running back right in to a dropkick from The Monday Night Delight, much to the delight of the San Jose crowd. Morrison rushes back up to his feet and takes a couple of steps back before walking back over to The Miz, jumping up in to the air to hit a STANDING SHOOTING STAR PRESS!. . . . . That gets more cheers from the fans inside the packed HP Pavilion as Morrison reaches to the side, grabbing Miz’s left leg and hooking it for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

The Miz gets his shoulder up with relative ease and the slightly disappointed Morrison leans back on to his knees as Mr. Hollywood attempts to sit up, appearing to be a little winded and dazed. That helps get Morrison going, and he’s dusted off the cobwebs now as he stands back up to see Cappotelli encouraging him, clapping on the outside. The struggling Miz gets to his knees and he’s pulled up by his former friend and tag team partner who whips him hard in to the corner. Miz’s back hits them hard and the anguish is there for us all to see, taking the wind out of sails.

He doesn’t have time to escape either as The Monday Night Delight doesn’t waste a single second, running right in at him and connects with a STEP UP ENZUIGIRI!!. . . . . The fans are cheering again as the lights go out for Mr. Hollywood, and he just falls forward, flat on his face. Morrison turns him over on to his back with his boot before turning back to face the corner, and boom, SPLIT-LEG MOONSAULT FROM THE SHAMAN OF SEXY!!. . . . . Yet more cheers break out as Morrison comes down on Miz’s chest, and he again grabs hold of Miz’s leg to make a cover, looking very hopeful as the referee drops down to his knees and makes a count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

No! The Miz kicks out but is struggling to move as Morrison shrugs it off, looking incredibly determined as he picks himself back up and walks in to the corner again. He steps through the ropes and climbs all the way up to the top rope, seemingly shaping up for STARSHIP PAIN!!!. . . . . The Miz is in trouble as some fans rise to their feet, but he quickly disappoints them all by getting to his knees, realising the danger he’s in and dives forward in to the ropes with everything he has. Morrison’s legs drop and he falls in to a sitting position with his face all scrunched up while his opponent smirks at the fans in the front row, looking very pleased with himself.

Cappotelli’s the opposite as he watches on disappointedly, and it’s not long before The Miz uses the ropes to help him get back up to a vertical base, still grinning in to the crowd at dodging that bullet. He walks the short distance in to the corner complacently, knowing full well Morrison’s not going anywhere. He’s looking to take full advantage as he climbs up on to the bottom rope and grabs Morrison’s head. He then turns round to face the ring and jumps back down to the floor, still holding his opponent’s head and straightening out his body for a CUTTER!!. . . . .

The Monday Night Delight is the one who’s in grave danger now, and he’s helpless as The Miz jumps up in to the air and forward, out of the corner to send his former friend’s head in to the canvas with one hell of an impact. The atmosphere swiftly changes in the arena, as does Morrison’s state of consciousness. He’s out of it, not moving an inch as The Miz sits up looking incredibly smug again, not rushing at all to make a cover. He smirks at the fans again for a couple of seconds before casually shimmying round on the mat to turn Morrison over on to his back for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . . No!

The Monday Night Delight just, and only just gets his shoulder up before the ref’s hand can come down for the third time. The Miz isn’t grinning anymore either. He just leans back and stares at the referee, who just points out it was two again, not that it makes Mr. Hollywood feel any better. Frustration gets the better of him as he stands back up angrily with Morrison barely moving. He tries to lift his head up but The Miz doesn’t give him a chance. The focused Cleveland native grabs hold of the top rope and puts the boots to his opponent’s chest, but he’s not done.

He then puts his boot across Morrison’s throat, still holding the top rope as he frantically chokes the hell out of him. The ref comes to Morrison’s rescue and tells The Miz to stop, and he does, only at the count of four though with Cappotelli looking concerned at his buddy’s current state. The fans boo as the extremely focused Mr. Hollywood glares in to the stands with Morrison finding it difficult to breathe just behind him. He then turns round as the red faced Morrison sits up, and The Miz helps him out, pulling him right back up.

He holds on to the top of his pants and his neck, turns round to face the corner and runs in with Morrison, tossing him shoulder first in to the ring post. We can hear Morrison scream and the camera zooms in on the anguish written all over his face while The Miz just smirks again, then raises his arms in the air with Cappotelli looking very concerned in Morrison’s corner. Chants of “You Suck” as well as boos are thrown in his direction, but that don’t bother him at all.

He then goes back to his opponent and drags JoMo away from the pads, dragging him up to his feet with no resistance whatsoever. He grabs his former partner by the head and twists him round so they’re back to back, and then takes him down to the mat again with a FALLING NECK BREAKER!!. . . . . Morrison hits the deck again, barely moving as the confident young star from Cleveland again coolly shimmies round and hooks the leg. The ref rushes across to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . . No!

Shoulder up! Cappotelli looks very relieved on the outside as the crowd cheer, further frustrating the already annoyed Miz. He shakes his head and stares down in disgust at the squirming Monday Night Delight. He doesn’t look happy at all and stands back up, continuing to glare down at his opponent, who’s trying to sit up and looks in a bad way. Mr. Hollywood shifts behind him and urges him to get up, stalking him with serious intent. The anxiousness from the fans is clear as they try to warn Morrison, who clearly has no idea where he is as he tries to stand up, looking very unsteady on his feet.

As he manages to get some kind of balance, The Miz strikes, grabbing him from behind and tries to set him up for the SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!!!. . . . . There are nervous gasps aplenty as Miz looks to hit his finisher, but Morrison ducks underneath and slips behind him. The Shaman of Sexy reacts quickly to grab him around the waist and plant him with a RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX!. . . . .

There are plenty of cheers now, and as both men, both struggling to get back up, Cappotelli tries to encourage his friend and the crowd by banging the apron. Morrison & Miz make it back up to their feet, and as The Miz turns to face his rival, he throws a wild right. Morrison ducks it though and catches Miz as he turns round this time, met by a SUPER KICK!!!. . . . . Miz’s legs fall from under him and he drops in a heap with The Monday Night Delight falls on top of him and hooks the leg for the cover with the fans counting along with the referee. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

The Miz just, just about manages to get his shoulder up before the ref can count to three, much to the shock and disappointment of the crowd’s favourite, Mr. Morrison. He looks towards the referee in hope that he got it wrong, and he’s quickly told that he didn’t. Even Cappotelli looks stunned, as do some members of the crowd. Morrison shrugs off the disappointment and gets back to work as Mr. Hollywood lifts his head up off the mat, starry eyed as hell. He tries to sit up, so groggy it’s unreal, but Morrison doesn’t let him. He bends down and drags him back up to his feet, setting him up for the MOONLIGHT DRIVE!!!. . . . .

The crowd cheer again as JoMo looks to wrap up the victory, but as he goes to hit it, The Miz pulls back and shoves his opponent in to the ropes. Morrison hits them, comes back and his stomach meets the extended knee of The Miz. He just drops to the mat and rolls round clutching his chest with all the wind blown out of his sails once again, courtesy of The Miz. Sighs of disappointment echo around the arena as Morrison’s momentum was dashed right there, much to the satisfaction of Cleveland’s own Mike Mizanin.

He just smirks while he gets his breath back and grins in Cappotelli’s direction, who is looking very concerned as well as disgusted with The Miz. Mr. Hollywood just watches as Morrison makes his way up to his knees, watching every move. And as Morrison gets to his feet, The Miz goes right for him and tries to grab him from the SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!!!. . . . . Morrison counters right away by fighting it and pulling him down in to a BACKSLIDE!! . . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

. . . . . NO!

The Miz kicks out and both men get back up as quickly as they can, both looking worn out. Morrison looks to strike first with a ROUNDHOUSE KICK!!. . . . . Miz ducks it and kicks him hard in the gut, throwing Morrison’s upper body forward. He then turns back and runs the ropes, and as he comes charging back, Morrison greets him with a hard stomp to the gut of his own. He then reacts very quickly and connects with the MOONLIGHT DRIVE!!!. . . . . The fans go nuts as The Miz lies motionless on the mat, but Morrison’s not done.

He stands up and drags The Miz’s lifeless body towards the corner, then climbs his way up all the way to the summit. The fans are on their feet as The Monday Night Delight stands on the top rope ready to strike with Mr. Hollywood lying completely helpless beneath him. Morrison then leaps off and comes crashing down on to his opponent. . . . . STARSHIP PAIN!!!. . . . . The lights are out and the crowd count in tandem with the referee as Morrison hooks the leg. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!

IT’S OVER. . . . . DING DING DING!


Winner: John Morrison by pinfall @ 12:09.

Aftermath: “Ain’t No Make Believe” blasts out and the fans continue to cheer and applaud Morrison as he picks himself back up. Cappotelli joins in the applause as the grinning Monday Night Delight gets his arm raised by the referee, and he then joins him in the ring and nods at him in approval. They walk towards each other and have a brief guy hug before Morrison walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, then poses for the fans. Matt continues to clap him as The Miz comes round, not looking happy at all.

He clutches his stomach as he turns his head in Morrison’s direction, and he steps down off the ropes and walks back to Cappotelli. They have a little chuckle and then leave the ring in the same mood before turning round on the ramp to see The Miz sitting up, glaring in their direction. Cappotelli then raises his buddy’s arm in the air, and they smile right back at the irate Miz, seemingly amusing both Morrison & Cappotelli as well as the San Jose faithful.


{Cut Backstage}


Tyson Tomko
is in a locker room with Christian’s emotional wife, Denise, and we can hear the door being slammed shut.

Tyson Tomko: Wait here. I’ll go talk t’ him.

Tomko leaves the room and the camera follows him as he opens the door and walks in to the hall.

Tyson Tomko: HEY!

The camera zooms out and we can see Christian in the hallway. He looks stressed, dressed in his ring gear with a Captain Charisma T-shirt too, and he stops without turning round.

Christian: WHAT DID I SAY? I DON’T WANNA TALK ABOUT IT. NOT NOW, NOT T’NIGHT.

Tomko walks towards him and puts his hand on Christian’s shoulder.

Christian: I told you, I don’t want her here. I don’t want her t’ see what I’m gonna do to my own fresh an’ blood, but more importantly, the only thing I care about is beating my brother and beating the crap out of him. You got that?

Tyson Tomko: Loud an’ clear. . . I’ll tell her t’ go back to her hotel then.

Christian: To be honest, I couldn’t care less where she goes.

Captain Charisma carries on walking down the hall.

__________


*Video Recap*

***Judgment Day 2008, Sunday 25th May
The Cutting Edge

Edge:
. . . as of tonight, Smackdown will never be the same again. You can forget all this crap about how Chris Jericho is coming back to Smackdown this week and whoever else, because I, The Rated R Superstar have arranged the most shocking return the WWE will ever see. You’re about to witness the long overdue return of the greatest double act this business has and will ever see. You’re about to witness the return of the man who alongside yours truly, dominated the tag team division for years and years and made the TLC match famous. Ladies and gentleman, I give to you, the latest addition to the Smackdown roster. . . MY BROTHER, CHRISTIAN.

*Big Pop*

“If You Close Your Eyes”
hits to a very strong pop as Christian walks down to the ring with a big smile on his face, dressed in jeans and a shirt. He climbs up the steps then the apron and grins in to the welcoming crowd before climbing through the ropes and hugging his brother, which doesn’t go down that well. He then picks up the other microphone before getting himself comfortable on the other stool.

Edge: . . . Me and my baby brother together once again with him helping me become the World Heavyweight Champion one more time. . .

Christian looks confused.

Christian: . . . Wait. That’s why you thought I’ve come back, to help you win the World Heavyweight Championship?

Edge: Well obviously.

Christian stands up.

Christian: I hate to disappoint you bro, but that’s not it at all. . . You really think I came back to stand next to you and hold your belt again like all those years ago? ‘Cos I gotta say bro, that ain’t happ’nin’.

Edge is confused and a little angry as he stands up.

Edge: What you talkin’ bout? I brought you back so you could help me. . .

Christian: . . . Well maybe that’s somethin’ you should have told me, ‘cos with no disrespect Adam, I’ve come back here to be a world champion myself, not do your dirty work. I’ve been all the way across the globe as a world champion the last couple of years, and I’ve not come back here to bend down and kiss anyone’s ass. . . If anything bro, you should be the one to step aside and let nature take its course, ‘cos whether you like it or not, I will become the World Heavyweight Champion.

Edge: Let me tell you somethin’ C, you might have been a world champion in that two bit company you’ve been workin’ for, but this is the big leagues. This is where the real heavy hitters play, and the reason you left is because you’re weren’t up to it. And from where I’m standin’, nothin’s changed.

Christian: Oh but it has Adam. Things have changed. I’m not a pushover anymore. I’m not known as Edge’s brother. I’m not the man who sleeps with his best friend’s girlfriend. I’m not the man who celebrated a win by sleepin’ with a hooker on live television, and I’m sure as hell not what you’ve become. . . a selfish jackass. . . I will climb to the top of this company even if that means nudging by big brother off the ladder to get there.

Edge: YOU’RE A COWARD. I’D NEVER BETRAY MY BROTHER LIKE YOU JUST HAVE. . .

Christian: . . . Whoa, calm down, I’m only playin’ around like the good old days. You should see your face.

Edge barely grins as he doesn’t look too convinced, and Christian doesn’t look convincing himself.

Christian: Hey come on, give your brother a hug.

There’s some clear tension between them but they hug tentatively hug, but Edge pulls back and kicks Christian in the gut. Christian drops to his knees and holds his chest with both men dropping their microphones as Edge backs up in to the corner, stalking his brother for the spear. As Christian stands back up, Edge charges at him, but Christian sidesteps it with Edge stopping himself and turning round with Christian then planting him with The Killswitch. A huge pop breaks out as Christian looks down in disgust at his brother with “If You Just Close Your Eyes” playing once again.


***Smackdown, May 30th 2008

“If You Close Your Eyes”
hits to a huge pop as a casually dressed Christian makes his way out to the stage. He stops and looks in to the crowd for a second or two before walking down the ramp looking happy to be back. Once he gets in the ring, he walks over to the ropes and collects a microphone.

Christian: If you haven’t caught the news the last few days, well Captain Charisma is back!. . . That’s right folks. . . Now even though my brother Edge is under the impression this is his show, Friday Night Smackdown has just got a big fat dose of charisma, and there’s a whole lot more to come. . . I’m not the same little brother that Adam used to get himself out of trouble. I’m the not same little brother that’s gonna do all his dirty work for him, and I’m not his little fetch boy anymore either. And you wanna know why? . . . ‘cause things have changed bro’. You won’t and can’t boss me around anymore because. . .

“Metalingus” hits as a very serious looking Edge walks out to the stage with a microphone in hand.

Edge: CUT THE MUSIC. . . I SAID CUT THE MUSIC.

As he gets in the ring, the music stops.

Edge: Y’know who the real star of Edge and Christian was. You can’t handle the fact I was Edge and Christian like Bret Hart was The Hart Foundation and Shawn Michaels was The Rockers. . . You’ve lived on my reputation for so long, and now you’re back, you’re doin’ the exact same thing all over again. . . This is the big leagues right here. You’re going to be a failure like you were the first time round, and I’m gonna enjoy every second of it seein’ you crash and burn. . .I’m the star and you might as well put your tail back between your legs, walk back up that ramp and never come back before you show the world why you’re the disappointment in our family.


***Smackdown, 18th July 2008
The Undertaker & Christian vs. Edge & Chris Jericho

Edge & Jericho made their entrances, then Christian. Captain Charisma got in the ring with Tomko and posed in the corner on the second rope with Jericho & Edge out of shot and out of the ring. They then stormed the ring behind the backs of Christian & Tomko with steel chairs in hand. Jericho nailed Tomko, and as Christian stepped off the ropes and turned round, The Rated-R Superstar drilled his brother with the other chair. The fans booed but things got worse for Christian as aided by Jericho, Edge placed one of the chairs under his brother's head before using the other to hit a con-chair-to to a barrage of boos. The Undertaker's gong and music hit, gaining the full attention of Jericho & Edge. They watched on carefully as Taker made his way down the ramp and the referee checked on Christian with Tomko having already rolled to the floor.

The dead man took off his jacket as usual, showing no fear as he stepped in to the ring. He charged at Jericho and knocked him down with a clothesline and ducked a chair shot from Edge. He grabbed him around the throat for a chokeslam, but Jericho low blowed him, sending him down to his knees. Jericho then grabbed the chair from Edge and smashed the phenom across the skull as he sat up. Taker fell flat on his chest and Edge turned to Christian before going over to get the other chair. He placed it under Taker's head and Jericho's face lit up. He smiled at The Rated-R Superstar, understanding what he was setting up and then gave the dead man a con-chair-to of his own. The fans booed even louder as their fellow Canadians looked down and smiled at their work.

Tazz comes out to the stage with a microphone in hand.

Tazz: Well done fellas, real impressive.

Edge & Jericho look up at him with big smiles on their faces.

Tazz: Y'know what? I'm real happy y'both look so pleased wit' yourselves based on what I'm 'bout to say. . . You're best off enjoyin' the moment while y'can guys 'cause let me tell y'somethin, the dead man an' Christian ain't gonna be like that f' long. . . At SummerSlam Edge, you're finally gonna go one on one wit' your baby brother, Christian.

*Big Pop*

Edge sn-iggers, clearly pleased with the chance to face his brother.


***Smackdown, July 25th 2008

Edge
is in the middle of the ring, dressed casually with a big smile on his face, looking very proud of himself.

Edge: Believe me when I say this Christian, you're gonna regret the day you ever, ever begged for the chance to step in to this ring with me. . . You got a preview last week of what's in store for you at SummerSlam, but I'm telling you here and now, that was nothing, trust me. I'm capable of a whole lot more than that. . . He's not even here t'night 'cause of what I did, so just imagine what state he's gonna be in at SummerSlam. Not t' worry though, he's probably at home right now watching as we speak with his ever so caring wife looking after him, and she's very caring believe me, I should know.


***Smackdown, August 1st 2008

Edge
is getting ready in his locker room for his match with Shawn Michaels later on, putting his elbow pads on when we hear, as does Edge, the door being thrust open and hitting the wall. Edge looks stunned and puts his hands up right away as Christian followed by Tomko walk towards him. Christian is steaming & his brother panics.

Edge: Whoa, what the hell d' y'think you're doin'?

Christian: YOU WANNA KNOW WHAT I'M DOIN OR HOW I'M DOIN', BRO? LET'S SEE SHALL WE. . . TWO WEEKS AGO, YOU AN' JERICHO JUMPED ME LIKE THE COWARDS THAT YOU ARE AN' GAVE ME A CONCUSSION, SO YEAH I'M FEELIN' GREAT ADAM. . . But you really wanna know why I'm here and why I've not put you on your ass? Well that's real simple. See when I should've been in that ring last week, I was sat at home with my wife watchin' the show, or should I say watchin' you, watchin' you run your mouth.

Edge smirks, clearly remembering what he said last week and enjoying seeing his brother so wound up.

Christian: I know you'd love nothin' more than t' see me suffer, but I'm tellin' y'right now. . . if you're screwin' around, you're just makin' more touble for yourself at SummerSlam, but if, if you've got somethin' you wanna tell me, you tell me right now or I will gladly put you on your ass like I probably should.

The Rated-R Superstar isn't smiling anymore and tries to stand his ground with Christian waiting for an answer.

Edge: I don't know what you're talking about bro. That con-chair-to must be playing with your head. And if you don't mind, I've kind of got a big match with Shawn Michaels I need t' get ready for. So if you don't mind, I'd be really grateful if you could turn around and walk out the door you might just've broken storming in here an' getting in my face.

Christian grabs Edge's shirt, lifts him off his feet and pulls him in to his body. He looks like he's going to explode as Edge stares right back at him, and as every second passes, Christian's grip lessens.

Edge: GO ON, DO IT. I DARE YA.

The heavy breathing Christian really thinks about it, but eventually lets him go to the relief of the smug Rated-R Superstar.

Christian: Another time bro, another time.

Christian turns around, followed again by Tomko, who glares at Edge before leaving.

***Later that night
Non-Title Match
Shawn Michaels vs. Edge

The Rated-R Superstar was pissed and stood up in a hurry, then walked over to the ropes, stepped through on to the apron and jumped down to the floor. He walked past the confused announce team & CM Punk to collect a steel chair, clearly fuming as he then slid back in the ring with the chair in hand. The crowd booed and the ref tried to stop Edge as he yelled at Michaels to get up, and he slowly struggled up, but before he could turn round, a huge roar broke out in the stands. Edge looked confused, and as he turned round to see what was going on, he saw his brother, Christian slide in to the ring. The Rated-R Superstar lifted the chair up above his head and ran at him, swinging the chair at Christian’s head, but he ducked it. Both men turned round as quickly as they could, and a seriously pumped up Christian reacted first to kick Edge in the gut and steel the chair. He then swung the chair at Edge and blasted him in the skull, resulting in a deafening thud and a huge pop, but the ref called for the bell, awarding the match to Edge by disqualification.

The crowd booed the announcement of Edge being declared the winner, but the action didn’t end there as Christian banged the chair against the mat and prepared to hit Edge again. He was barely moving, but Shawn Michaels was. He didn’t look too happy at Christian costing him the match and told him just that as he grabbed the chair away from him. Captain Charisma got right in Michaels’ face and demanded he give him the chair back as Tomko entered the ring and tried to get Christian to see sense. Michaels didn’t back down and threw the chair to the side, where it landed it by the apron. Tomko grabbed Christian’s arm and told him to step away, and as angry as he looked, he backed down and slowly stepped back towards the apron with Tomko.


***Smackdown, August 8th 2008

We see ‘The Rated-R Superstar’ Edge step out of a car and walk up a fairly big driveway. He’s wearing jeans and a T-shirt and looking very relaxed on what appears to be a cloudy day in an unknown location. He gets to the door of a nice looking house and rings the doorbell, then waits for several seconds when a woman with blonde hair opens it and looks both shocked and furious to see him.

Edge: Hey Denise, long time.

Denise: You’ve got some nerve coming here.

Edge: You gonna let me in before you jump down my throat?

Denise: What do you want Adam?

Edge: I think it’s best we do the talkin’ in there don’t y’think? That’s if you don’t want the neighbours t’ hear ev’rythin’ we’ve gotta say.

Denise, still not happy with Edge’s presence, reluctantly stands to the side and pulls the door wide open to let him in. Edge smirks as he walks in to the house and wipes his feet on the doormat before walking in, followed by the camera (still out of shot). Denise then shuts the door quite hard, not a slam as Edge has a look around nodding.

Denise: Cut the crap Adam, why are you here?. . . Y’know what. Scrap that. Why did you have to open your mouth t’ Christian? He’s been weird with me ever since, constantly questioning me about it. He’s not letting up you know. He’s intent on hurting you, and I don’t mean a little bit. You have no idea how angry he is. . .

Edge: . . . I HAVE NO IDEA HUH? DID YOU NOT SEE WHAT HE DID T’ ME LAST WEEK? HE BARGED IN T’ MY DRESSING ROOM AND SHOVED ME UP AGAINST THE WALL, AND IF THAT WASN’T ENOUGH, HE ALMOST TOOK MY HEAD OFF WITH A STEEL CHAIR. SO YEAH DENISE, I THINK I KNOW HOW ANGRY IS. . . YOU REALLY THINK I WANNA GET MY HEAD SMASHED IN AGAIN? HE AIN’T GONNA STOP ‘TIL HE FINDS OUT, AND. . .

Denise: . . . NO WAY. I’M NOT TELLING HIM.

Edge: WHAT, Y’THINK THIS IS JUST GONNA GO AWAY?. . . HE’S GONNA FIND OUT IF Y’LIKE IT OR NOT.

Denise: I’M NOT TELLING HIM WHAT HAPPENED, IT’LL FINISH US.

Edge: Well if you don’t, I will.

A furious Christian is watching a television in his locker room with Tyson Tomko, and Tomko shakes his head in disgust. Christian then pushes the television down off its stand and Tomko grabs him straight away.

Tyson Tomko: Easy, calm down.

Christian: CALM DOWN? I’LL CALM DOWN WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON MY BROTHER. NOW LET ME GO.

Tomko reluctantly lets the livid Christian go, who storms out of the room.

***Later that night
Non-Title Match
Christian vs. Shelton Benjamin

Christian was able to reverse an irish whip from Benjamin, but as Shelton hit the ropes, he held on to them, really agitating Christian who then charged at him. Benjamin reacted quickly by ducking and held the ropes down, sending Captain Charisma flying over them and to the floor below. Christian was still pissed as he got back to his feet close to the announce table, and as he stood up, he noticed Justin Roberts sitting on a steel chair. He then dragged him off it and grabbed the chair before heading in to the ring with it. Benjamin was gesturing to the crowd, winding them up while Christian slid back in the ring. As the United States Champion then turned round, he could only look on in horror as the irrational Canadian swung the chair at his head. Fortunately for Benjamin, he was able to duck the shot with the referee instantly calling for the bell and disqualifying the livid Christian.

Benjamin scurried to safety and grabbed his United States title as Christian yelled at the referee, and he saw red. He stepped back and lifted the chair to swing it again, but Tomko saw what was coming and quickly slid in the ring behind him and grabbed the chair as it was swung backwards. Christian turned round as Tomko grabbed the chair from him, and he angrily questioned Tomko as to why he did that. Tomko stood firm and reasoned with him, gradually getting Christian to see sense. Captain Charisma then turned round, walked over to the ropes and demanded a microphone, getting one from Roberts.

Christian: Get a camera on me now. . . Adam, I know you’re watchin’ an’ y’need t’ hear this you son of a bitch. . . Y’can play all the games y’want with me y’coward, but I’m warnin’ ya, stay the hell away from Denise or I swear t’ god SummerSlam will be the last time you ever step foot in this ring.

“If You Close Your Eyes” played to a big pop as the still livid Christian stared down the camera for a couple of seconds before dropping the microphone, turning round and leaving the ring.


***Smackdown, August 15th 2008 (Two nights ago)

‘The Rated-R Superstar’ Edge
walks out to the stage after the deafening pyro display with a big smile on his face. He walks down the ramp looking very smug, and as he climbs up the steps, he picks a microphone up off the apron before getting in the ring. The fans continue to boo as his music stops and he walks in to the middle of the ring, smirking in to the stands.

Edge: I came out here t’night for one very simple reason, to apologise t’ my little brother, Christian. . . See a few weeks back I let somethin’ slip I’ve kept t’ myself for years, somethin’ I’ve kept secret from my baby brother f’ no other reason but t’ pr’tect him, even though he’s done ev’rything he can t’ make my life a living hell. . . Two weeks back he blasted me in the skull with a steel chair, an’ when I came round, I thought t’ hell with it. If he wants t’ make things difficult f’ me, I’m sure as hell not gonna keep my mouth shut f’ his benefit. . . What does matter is that I’m still standing in time for SummerSlam on Sunday when I humiliate him in front of all of his peeps an’ make him see that he can’t beat me like he thinks. . . You think you can beat me bro? Well you can’t an’ you’re finally gonna that find out once an’ f’ all that your little dream of beating me is just that, a dream. . . That’s all it is C, a dream. You don’t stand a chance of beating me. You’re not in my league. You never have been an’ you never will be.

A furious Christian storms down the ramp with a face like thunder, and Tyson Tomko follows behind him. Christian climbs up the steps, gets in the ring and glares at Edge as he walks past him to the apron to ask for a microphone. Tomko gets in the ring as Captain Charisma is passed a microphone by Justin Roberts, and Christian walks back towards Edge, who looks slightly cautious with his brother in one foul and possibly unpredictable mood.

Christian: So I just thought I’d come out here and thank you bro for going out of your way, and I’d like to thank you for giving me the chance t’ come out here and beat the holy hell out of you. . . See Adam, because I’ve not had the chance t’ talk to my wife. . . all down t’ you remember, I’ve still got questions that need answering, questions that you can answer for me right now and save yourself the ass kicking of a lifetime. Or you can carry on being the selfish, vengeful son of a bitch that you are and fast forward the ass kicking you’re gonna get at SummerSlam to t’night.

Edge looks stunned as he gazes over Christian’s shoulder. The camera then cuts to a shot of Denise at the top of the stage, the same Denise we saw a couple of weeks back when Edge went to her house. Christian then turns round and sees her there, looking slightly relieved at first before turning back to Edge when the anger sets back in.

Denise: You know how much I love you, I know you do and you have to believe me that I’m telling the truth. . . Yes something happened with your brother, but it was a long, long time ago when we’d not been t’gether long. It was a mistake, a big mistake and it meant absolutely nothing I promise. You don’t know how hard it was and still is having you away from home five days a week. . . I didn’t know what t’ do so I spoke to Adam. He told me that it was part of the business and that I had to accept it. I didn’t think I could and was going to end it before I got really hurt, but he told me not to and to give it a chance.

Edge nods in Christian’s direction, smirking at the same time while Christian somehow manages to keep calm and listen to his wife.

Denise: He was really nice about it and listened to me any time I needed t’ talk. Then one night when you were working and Adam was at home because he was injured, something happened.

Christian’s getting a bit hot under the collar now, clearly not comfortable at hearing the truth come out.

Denise: I know it’s wrong and it should’ve ended there but it didn’t. . . I’m so sorry, I love you so much. Please forgive me. I don’t know what I’d do without you.

Tomko manages to get Christian & Denise to leave the ring, then follows them up the ramp with Christian putting his arm round her. The camera goes back to the ring as Edge watches on with a big smirk on his face.

Edge: Hey Denise. Just before you go, I want t’ let y’know, that just in case y’need a shoulder t’ cry on, y’know where t’ find me.

Christian turns round with a face of fury. He immediately lets go of Denise and turns back, pushing his way past Tomko and charges back to the ring, sliding in under the bottom rope. He takes Edge by surprise and tackles him down to the mat, then unloads with a series of right hands to a huge cheer in the LG Arena. Tomko then gets back in the ring and pulls him away from Edge, just about dragging Christian up to his feet and towards the ropes. Christian isn’t happy and wants to go back for more as Edge gets to his knees.

Christian manages to break free from Tomko with his back to Edge and shouts at his problem solver. As he then turns round and runs at his brother, Edge connects with a spear to a chorus of boos in the arena. The Rated-R Superstar stands up sn-iggering as he looks down at Christian squirming on the mat holding his stomach. Denise looks concerned as she watches on from the ramp. Tomko goes over and shoves Edge out of the way to check on Christian, and Edge just continues to laugh as “Metalingus” plays to more heat with an upset and disgusted Denise looking on.

__________


{Cut to the Arena}


*Match #2*



Christian w/Tyson Tomko vs. Edge

Last 10+ Minutes:
After a double clothesline, both men make their way back up to their feet, not looking in the best of shape. Edge looks to strike the first blow with a right hand, but Christian blocks it and tries to whip his brother in to the ropes. The Rated-R Superstar reverses it and Christian hits the ropes and runs back in to a FLAPJACK!. . . . . Captain Charisma’s face crashes in to the canvas with Edge shifting round to turn his younger brother over on to his back. He then hooks the leg and makes a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! It’s a comfortable kick out from Christian, not that Edge is feeling comfortable. He’s not too happy at seeing Christian kick out and goes right back to work, standing back up and walking towards the apron. He steps through the ropes and makes his way up to the top rope as his groggy brother tries to pick himself back up. Christian’s oblivious to Edge ready to pounce behind him, and as he turns round, The Rated-R Superstar jumps off the ropes and drives both his boots right in to Christian’s face with a MISSILE DROPKICK!. . . . . Captain Charisma hits the deck again, and Edge is dialling up the intensity as he gets back up and lies in wait, watching intently as Christian struggles to stand up again.

Edge isn’t in the mood to wait and drags him up from his knees, then whips him in to the ropes. Christian hits them and holds on to the top rope, grabbing on to it with desperation. That doesn’t go down well with Edge one bit, and he charges across the ring at his brother. Christian fights back and lifts his boot up in to Edge’s face, sending him staggering away from the ropes. Christian takes a second to shake off the cobwebs as Edge turns back round, then Captain Charisma runs out at him and in to a SPINNING HEEL FROM THE RATED-R SUPERSTAR! Christian falls to the mat again, but he’s not down for long.

He picks himself back up as Edge also gets back to a vertical base, watching closely as Christian stands up. He runs past Christian and in to the ropes behind him, but as he runs back seemingly looking for a bulldog, Christian turns round and takes him down to the canvas with a falling clothesline. The fans like that and some cheer as both Canadians find their way back to their feet. Christian looks to get some momentum going and fires his brother in to the ropes and lifts him up in the air for what looks set to be a back body drop, but he lets go of him in the air and drops him flat on his chest to a big pop from the San Jose crowd.

Tomko likes what he sees on the outside and Captain Charisma stares down at his brother squirming at his feet. Christian watches him attempt to sit up and then walks towards the ropes. He steps on to the apron and then climbs up to the dizzy heights of the top rope as a dazed Edge find his way up with some difficulty. Christian watches closely and sees him turn round in his direction, giving him the go ahead to dive off and land on Edge’s chest, falling on top of him with a CROSS BODY!. . . . . He holds on for a cover as the referee runs across the mat to make a count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! Edge shows some fight and rolls through, holding on to his brother’s tights to make a cover of his own. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

Christian kicks out to the relief of Tomko, who breathes a big sigh of it in his friend’s corner. Both men make their way back up as quickly as they can, and Christian’s momentum is well and truly cut short as Edge ducks a clothesline attempt and kicks Christian in the gut as he turns round before planting him with the EDGECUTION!!. . . . . Captain Charisma’s head got drilled and the hopeful Rated-R Superstar rushes to turn his brother on to his back and hooks the leg for another cover attempt, holding on desperately as the referee drops to his knees and counts Christian’s shoulders. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . No!

The peeps cheer as Christian gets his shoulder up, and Edge can’t believe it. He leans back on to his knees and runs his hands through his hair, staring at the referee the entire time, and his worst fears are confirmed as the ref holds up two fingers, in a non-offensive manner of course. Edge shakes his head, bordering on steaming as his brother begins to come round, lifting his head up and trying to get a feel for where he actually is. He’s very groggy indeed and as Edge turns his attention back to him, he stands up immediately and shifts round to his feet.

He grabs Christian’s legs and lifts them up, trying to apply the SHARPSHOOTER!!. . . . . Boos ring out and Tomko looks very concerned on the outside, but not as much as Captain Charisma. He realises what’s going on and fights for his life, and he manages to force Edge back by using all the power in his legs to shove him back. Edge falls backwards to a mini cheer from the San Jose faithful. They watch on as both men pick themselves back up with Edge the first one to make it to his feet, and he walks towards his brother and in to a drop toe hold.

His head bangs against the mat at force as a tired and sore Christian struggles up from his knees to his feet, closely followed by his brother. Christian looks down at Edge about to get up and he turns in to the ropes, bounces off them and runs back to take The Rated-R Superstar down with a SPEAR!!!. . . . . Edge has fallen victim to his own finishing move, and he rolls towards the apron with the fans cheering. Christian desperately crawls across and pulls him away from the ropes before hooking his leg for a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . 3?

. . . . . NO!

Christian sits up looking slightly disappointed, but not that surprised. Edge tries to sit up and looks to be in some trouble, something Christian realises. He stands back up and lifts both his arms up in to the air and bangs them together. The fans take over as Christian sizes up the squirming Rated-R Superstar, and slowly but surely he makes his way back up with his brother waiting to strike.

He kicks Edge in the gut, grabs both his arms and twists him round for the KILLSWITCH!!!. . . . . But no! Edge pulls himself free and reacts very quickly to take his brother down to the mat with the EDGE-O-MATIC!!. . . . . Panic strikes everyone in the HP Pavilion with the exception of Edge, who reaches forward to hook his brother’s right leg for the cover with the referee making a count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

Christian kicks out and it really ticks Edge off, who again stares blankly at the referee, in total disbelief that his brother kicked out again. He flips out again and gets right back up to his feet, then retreats to the corner as Christian starts to stir, and he’s not in a good way. The Rated-R Superstar squats down, urging Christian to get up, and when he does, Edge flies out of the corner and goes for the SPEAR!!!. . . . . Christian jumps up and leapfrogs his brother who runs right in to the turnbuckle pads chest first. Captain Charisma runs in behind him and rolls him with the fans counting along with the referee. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Edge kicks out, pushing Christian off him with his legs. Both men stand up as quickly as their battered bodies will let them, and it’s Christian who takes the initiative. He kicks his brother in the gut and strikes rapidly to plant Edge with a TORNADO DDT!!. . . . . The fans cheer again as the focused Captain Charisma gets right back up, deciding not to make a cover and head to the apron again.

Edge isn’t moving even a little bit as Christian climbs all the way up to the top rope with his eyes locked on his brother. With Edge still flat out on the canvas, Christian leaps off the top and connects with a FROG SPLASH!!!. . . . . The fans are on their feet, and it’s electric in the HP Pavilion as Christian reaches to the side and hooks his brother’s leg for the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . NO!

The Rated-R Superstar just, and only just lifts his shoulder up off the mat, leaving Christian disappointed. He looks down at Edge, who starts to come round, and that sparks the life back in to Captain Charisma. He rises to his feet and watches his brother slowly pick himself back up, and he jumps right on him, trying for the KILLSWITCH ONCE AGAIN!!!. . . . . Edge counters again and shoves Christian in to the ropes, and as Captain Charisma bounces back at him, The Rated-R Superstar levels him with a BIG BOOT TO THE FACE!!. . . . .

Edge looks down with a wry smile on his face at the sight of his brother rolling around in agony. He then pulls him up and positions Christian’s head under his arm, then lifts him vertically up in to the air before throwing him forward and down in to the canvas with a SIT-OUT SUPLEX SLAM!!. . . . . It’s met with sighs from the San Jose crowd as Christian lies across the mat on his chest, totally flat out with Edge looking very confident as he crawls forward and looks in to the stands before turning Christian over and hooking his leg for the cover, and the referee hits the mat to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Shoulder up! Christian just about clings on to any hopes of winning he has, and Edge does snap this time, standing back up straight away and bringing his suffering brother up with him and in to place for a KILLSWITCH!!!. . . . . The fans boo as loud as they can with Edge smirking at their reaction as he prepares to finish his brother off with his own move, but Christian surprises him by pulling free and reacting quickly to plant him with a REVERSE DDT!!. . . . . The boos from the crowd have turned in to cheers in a short space of time with both men now lying across the canvas.

Christian’s unable to take advantage and the fans try to get him going, clapping along with Tomko who’s banging his hands against the apron. Both men struggle their way back up to their feet, and Edge turns round to get thrust up on to his brother’s shoulders. Christian has him in a fireman’s carry position and brings him down on to his extended knee, stomach first for a GUTBUSTER!!. . . . . There’s more cheers coming from the crowd as Christian leans forward to cover the squirming Rated-R Superstar. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

No!

Edge kicks out but looks worse for doing so. He lifts his head up and clutches his stomach while Christian shrugs off the close call and makes his way back up and to the apron. He climbs through the ropes and all the way up to the top rope with Edge still squirming in the centre of the ring, allowing Christian to step off the top rope and go for a DIVING HEAD BUTT!!. . . . . No, Edge rolls to the side and Christian’s head collides hard with the mat, leaving both men in trouble. Edge is the first one to move, and he crawls towards the corner as Captain Charisma attempts to get on to his knees.

The Rated-R Superstar uses the ropes to help him up and he’s clearly in pain as he stares intently at his brother, who doesn’t appear to have a clue where he’s at as he gets to his feet. As he then turns round, Edge explodes out of the corner looking to hit the SPEAR!!!. . . . . Christian sidesteps it and Edge somehow puts the brakes on. Both men turn round as quickly as they can, and Christian acts first, stomping his brother in the gut and pulling him in to position for the KILLSWITCH!!!. . . . . HE HITS IT!!!. . . . . Edge is all but done and the hopeful Christian shimmies round quickly and hooks the leg for the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!

IT’S OVER!


Winner: Christian by pinfall @ 14:51.

Aftermath: “If Your Close Your Eyes” plays to a big pop as an emotional Christian leans back on his knees and covers his head with his hands. He then stands up and gets his arm raised with Tomko then joining him in the ring. He slaps hands with Christian, who then looks down at Edge, who’s not moving yet. Captain Charisma then walks to the corner and climbs up on to the second rope to pose for the cheering fans. He turns his head and sees Edge lifting his head up, who’s not sure what’s happened. Christian then steps down off the ropes and leaves the ring with Tomko, then turns round on the ramp to salute the fans one more time with Edge watching on in anger as he sits up.


{Cut Backstage}


John Morrison & Matt Cappotelli
are in the hallway, both in a good mood, especially Morrison, who’s now dressed after his match earlier on.

Matt Cappotelli: I’m so glad you invited me here t’night John. It’s been a blast.

John Morrison: Don’t mention it. It really was great t’ have you out there with me, but not as good as it was t’ win an’ beat The Miz.

Matt Cappotelli: Really?

Morrison laughs at Matt’s impression of The Miz.


John Morrison: After all you’ve been through, you’ve still got that sense of humour.

Matt Cappotelli: Well seeing you beat that jackass sure made me laugh too. He had that comin’.

John Morrison: Oh yeah, an’ now it’s out of the way, I think it’s time I. . . sorry we enjoy it.

Matt Cappotelli: Then what are we waiting for? Lead the way Johnny boy.

John Morrison: Alright let’s go.

Morrison puts his arm round Matt’s shoulder and they walk down the hall laughing.

__________


*Video Recap*
From Raw Last Monday


Kofi Kingston & Kelly Kelly vs. Ted DiBiase Jr & Maryse

The French diva made Kelly fight for her life in a modified figure four leg lock, and Kelly hung on and pulled herself to the ropes. That really ticked off Maryse who didn’t give Kelly the chance to recover and dragged her up to her knees and then her feet, but as she tried to pull her away from the ropes, Kelly grabbed hold of the ropes. That pissed Maryse off even more and she tried desperately to drag her away, but Kelly slapped her and sent her staggering away from the ropes. She then followed out and looked to strike Maryse as she turned round with a roundhouse kick. Maryse ducked it and quickly pulled her in to position for the French Kiss, but Kelly wriggled free and pulled her in to an inside cradle to pick up the win for her and Kofi.

As Kofi raised Kelly’s hand, DiBiase stormed the ring and barged him down to his knees from behind, then pounced seconds later to hit Dream Street. Kelly was then shoved down to the mat by Ted before he then walked over to the ref who had just collected Kofi’s Intercontinental title. Ted stole the belt from him and shoved him down too with Maryse standing up and watching closely with a sadistic smile on her face as Ted stalked the squirming Kofi. He slowly picked himself up when we then saw The Million Dollar Man take off his headset and leave the announce table. He didn’t look very happy as he then climbed in to the ring and walked up behind his son.

He then spun him round and gave him a piece of his mind, not that Ted Jr took any notice as Kofi got to his knees. He just shook his head and then looked as if he was going to hit his dad with the belt, but all of a sudden turned and blasted Kofi in the skull, sending the Intercontinental Champion back down to the canvas. The fans booed like crazy as Ted Jr’s dad shook his head in disgust and watched on as his son dropped the title and left the ring with Maryse, both grinning and looking very satisfied with the job just done on the Intercontinental Champion. DiBiase Sr then checked on both Kelly and Kofi with Ted Jr & Maryse smirking at him as they watched on from the ramp.

__________


{Cut to the Arena}


*Match #3*



WWE Intercontinental Championship
Kofi Kingston (c) w/Kelly Kelly vs. Ted DiBiase Jr w/Maryse

Last 10 Minutes:
Kofi tosses DiBiase back in the ring and climbs back in himself. DiBiase’s already getting up himself as Kofi stands up, and the Intercontinental Champion grabs him by the arm and whips him in to the ropes. The challenger comes flying back and levels him with a FALLING CLOTHESLINE!. . . . . DiBiase sure caught him with that one and he knows it. He makes his way back up with a smug look on his face with Kingston following. Ted turns round and runs the ropes behind Kofi, comes back and sends him down with another ferocious FALLING CLOTHESLINE, THIS ONE TO THE BACK OF THE NECK!. . . . .

DiBiase’s finding his feet now and looks to give Kofi a beating. He kneels down and turns his opponent on to his back, kneeling over his chest and he unloads with a series of closed right hands to the skull. The ref cuts in and pulls DiBiase off of Kingston, much to the annoyance of the challenger, who gets right in the referee’s face. The ref stands firm and lays down the law to the stubborn youngster, and it doesn’t go down well with Maryse either on the outside as she throws some insults in his direction from the outside.

There’s some serious fire in the challenger’s belly now as he turns to see Kofi sitting up. He turns his attention back to the champion and drags him up to his feet and fires him in to the ropes with an irish whip. Kofi comes flying back and is sent face first in to the canvas with a FLAPJACK!. . . . . The Intercontinental Champion’s in some serious trouble now as DiBiase scurries across the canvas and quickly turns Kofi over on to his back so he can make a cover, hooking Kofi’s leg as the ref darts across to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! The squirming Kofi kicks out, frustrating the hell out of the challenger, who gets right back up to his feet and urges his opponent to do the same. It takes some time for Kofi to get to his knees, and Ted shifts behind him as he tries to stand up, sizing him up for DREAM STREET!!!. . . . . The fans and Kelly Kelly try to warn him with the fired up DiBiase ready to strike, and as Kofi unwittingly gets to his feet, DiBiase looks to grab him in the cobra clutch grip. Kofi escapes though right away and slips behind his opponent.

He then spins him round and tries for an irish whip, but Ted reverses it and sends Kofi in to the ropes. As he hits them, he holds on to the top rope, really pissing the challenger off. He runs right at Kofi who turns to the side and lifts his elbow up in to DiBiase’s face, raising a cheer from the California crowd. It sends Ted staggering away from the ropes in a dazed, and as he turns round, Kofi runs out to meet him and nails him with the S.O.S!!!. . . . . The crowd goes nuts as Kofi scurries across the mat and hooks the leg for the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Maryse climbs on to the apron and gets the attention of the referee who stops counting. A chorus of boos breaks out as the referee walks over and yells at Maryse, telling her to get down off the apron, and Kofi joins him. He’s furious. He had the match won and gives the French diva a piece of his mind while Kelly shakes her head. She gets involved and walks round towards the mouthy girlfriend of Ted, then pulls her down to the floor. Maryse goes mad and gets in her face. Kelly doesn’t hesitate in slapping her, much to the pleasure of the San Jose fans.

Maryse slaps her back though and they go at it like a pair of girls, forcing the referee to leave the ring and sort it out. He steps between them and holds them apart, then orders Kelly to walk away, and she does so reluctantly with Maryse taunting her. Kofi then turns his attention back to his opponent and walks towards DiBiase, who’s starting to sit up. He bends down to pull him up, and he gets a shock as Ted sits up and rolls him in to a SMALL PACKAGE!. . . . . The referee hurries back in to the ring and crawls across to count the champion’s shoulders. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

No! Kofi kicks out and gets right back up. He clearly means business. His game face is on and he helps Ted up from his knees and fires him in to the corner. DiBiase hits the turnbuckle pads with some force, back first, and he has little time to react as Kofi runs in at him and jumps up to the second rope where he pummels the challenger with several right hands.

The fans count them, all the way to ten when Kingston steps down and MONKEY FLIPS DIBIASE OUT OF THE CORNER AND DOWN TO THE MAT!. . . . . Momentum is firmly with the Intercontinental Champion, who hits the ropes and comes back to hit the laid out DiBiase with the BOOM DROP!!. . . . . It’s getting seriously loud in the arena as the determined Kofi shifts round and makes a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . No!

Kofi’s gutted. He leans back up and throws his hands against his face. DiBiase’s lights are on but he might not be home as he sits up looking like he doesn’t know where he is. That gets the disappointed Kofi going again, and as he gets to his feet, he brings Ted up with him and looks to thrust him in to the ropes, but the challengers reverses the irish whip, sending Kofi in to the ropes instead. The challenger ducks his head, and Kofi takes advantage as he runs back and kicks him square in the head. Ted’s head snaps back up and Kofi feeds him his left leg before going for an enzuigiri, but Ted ducks his head.

Kofi hits the mat with DiBiase still holding his left leg, and Kofi strikes back as Ted bends down, only to get the bottom of the African’s boot driven in to his million dollar face. The crowd cheer as Ted falls back and hits the mat. Maryse is looking concerned as Kofi makes his way back up with DiBiase also struggling to his feet. Kofi’s up first and sends Ted right back down thanks to a SIDE RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP!. . . . . More cheers come from the stands as Kofi picks himself back up, followed once again by the weary challenger. The champion turns to the side and runs the ropes, then comes racing back to hit a FLYING FOREARM SMASH!!. . . . .

No, Ted ducks it and Kofi hits the deck. Ted’s clearly not in the best shape but he looks to get some momentum going by dragging Kofi right back up, then sends him straight back down again with a SIDE SUPLEX!!. . . . . The challenger’s finally found a way in to the contest and looks to make it stick as he gets back up and heads straight to the apron and climbs up to the top rope with Kofi making his own way back up. Ted’s eyes are locked on him. He really is fired up and jumps off to level him with a DOUBLE AXE HANDLE!!. . . . . Kofi hits the mat again and Ted drops right down on top of him to make the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO! Not all that surprisingly, Kofi kicks out, surprisingly not pleasing Ted that much. He’s really intense right now as he stalks him again for DREAM STREET!!!. . . . . The challenger lifts both his arms in to the air in preparation, getting ready to finish Kofi and take the Intercontinental Championship. The fans again try to warn Kingston again as he gets to his knees, and Ted loses his patience. He walks up to Kofi and tries to pull him up, but Kofi fights to save his title and swings his elbow back in to the Ted’s face, knocking him back and in to the referee.

They clash and the ref falls to the canvas with DiBiase holding his head, not looking to have suffered too badly. He then turns round and sees him lying there, not out of it but barely moving. He then turns back to face Kofi, who’s unaware of what’s happened. The Intercontinental Champion gets up and turns round to connect this time with the LEG FEED ENZUIGIRI, CATCHING DIBIASE OFF GUARD!!. . . . . He shifts round to make a cover and then turns to see the drowsy referee lying on the mat with his eyes not on the action. Kingston immediately gets up and checks on the referee, looking genuinely concerned about his condition.

DiBiase lifts his head up, all starry eyed, but his eyes light up as Maryse walks round to the timekeeper’s table and grabs Kofi’s title. She then slides it in to the ring and it falls right at Ted’s body. There’s a great deal of anxiousness in the arena, and Kofi doesn’t know why. Neither does Kelly as she too is focusing on the referee. Ted comes to life and grabs the belt as he makes his way up to his knees with the title clutched to his chest. The fans are desperately trying to warn Kofi now, and as Ted gets up to his feet and gets ready to take the champ’s head off with his own title, The Million Dollar Man jumps up from the announce table and throws his headset down on the desk, surprising the hell out of Jim Ross.

DiBiase Sr gets in the ring and walks up behind his son, then spins him round, catching him totally by surprise. He screams at his dad and tells him to get out of the way, but the Hall of Famer isn’t budging and he grabs the title from his son to a big pop. Ted Jr flips out and shoves his dad, who looks completely disgusted with his son. His face gets redder by the second, and Kofi turns round to see what the hell’s going on. As he walks across, The Million Dollar Man snaps and SWINGS THE BELT AT HIS SON’S HEAD!!!. . . . . BUT WAIT, TED DUCKS AND KOFI WALKS RIGHT IN TO IT. HE’S BEEN KNOCKED OUT BY HIS OWN TITLE BELT!!!. . . . .

Boos fill the HP Pavilion as the equally stunned father and son look on with DiBiase Sr looking on in horror. He doesn’t know what he’s done and flees the ring in panic, watching on from the apron as the younger DiBiase panics too and kicks the evidence under the bottom rope before dropping to his knees and covering the champion to an absolute barrage of heat. He turns to the side and sees the referee slowly crawling across the mat, and with Kofi absolutely out of it, the ref counts his shoulders. . . . .

1 . . . . .

. . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!!! Kofi somehow, someway gets his shoulder up to the total bemusement of DiBiase Jr. His father is one relieved man on the outside, and he watches on as his son sits up and stares down in shock. He then shakes his head and gets back to work, glaring down at Kofi as he begins to come round. It takes him a while, but DiBiase is seriously fired up as he stalks the champion again.

Kofi struggles to his knees and then his feet, looking very unsteady, and Ted doesn’t give him chance. The challenger walks up behind him and this time he plants Kofi with DREAM STREET!!!. . . . . That has to be all, and Kofi’s not moving at all as Ted shifts round to hook both legs with the referee, still on the mat himself crawling in to position to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

. . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .

3!!!


Winner: By pinfall, and the new Intercontinental Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr @ 13:56.

Aftermath: “Priceless” hits to an absolute bombardment of boos inside the HP Pavilion. He stands up looking so proud of himself as Maryse walks round to pick the Intercontinental title up from the arena floor that now belongs to her boyfriend. The Million Dollar Man can’t believe it and is full of guilt as he watches on from the apron as his son lifts his new shiny title aloft, much to the disapproval of the California fans. He then turns and sni-ggers in his dad’s direction, who shakes his head in utter frustration at the role he’s just played in the finish. DiBiase Jr now walks over to the ropes with Maryse following and throws the title up in the air again, still looking immensely smug.

His girlfriend is clapping behind him, and as he turns round, he gives her a gentle and brief kiss before taking her hand and escorting her to the apron by the ramp. He sits on the middle rope and allows her to leave the ring, and he follows. They walk up the ramp and turn round to see Kelly slide in the ring to check on Kofi, who tries to sit up, still looking very groggy. He clearly doesn’t know what’s going on, but The Million Dollar Man does, and he’s still feeling sorry for himself. Kofi looks up towards the new Intercontinental Champion, who lifts the title up again at the top of the ramp with Maryse grinning beside him.

__________


*Video Recap*

***Smackdown, May 30th 2008
Non-Title Match
Matt Sydal vs. Shelton Benjamin

And as Sydal comes running back at him, Shelton goes for a clothesline, but Sydal ducks it, and as Shelton turns round, he blocks a kick to the stomach and nails Sydal with a DRAGON WHIP. . . . . That floors Sydal, and the angry champion takes his chance at a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Sydal kicks out to the delight of the crowd, but Benjamin isn’t the least bit delighted. He stands back up and urges his opponent to do the same, with Sydal crawling towards the corner. Shelton watches on as Sydal uses the ropes to help him back up, and as Sydal stands up, Shelton runs in to the corner, looking to hit a STINGER SPLASH. . . . . But Sydal steps out of the corner with Benjamin hitting the pads, and Sydal quickly rolls him up. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.

“Axeman” hits with the fans cheering as Sydal quickly slips under the bottom rope to the outside. He looks slightly surprised, but not as much as Shelton as The Gold Standard sits up. The referee joins Sydal on the outside and raises the delighted youngster’s arm in to the air with Shelton staring at them in shock. Sydal smiles and punches the air before back tracking up the ramp and slapping hands with the fans with Shelton’s shock quickly turning to frustration.


***2008 King of the Ring, 15th June
King of the Ring Final
Matt Sydal vs. Shelton Benjamin

Benjamin takes a second before then running in at him for a STINGER SPLASH. . . . . But no, Sydal steps to the side as Shelton jumps right on to the turnbuckle pads. That raises another cheer from the pro Sydal crowd. Sydal shifts behind Benjamin, and as Shelton turns round and staggers out of the corner, Sydal grabs him around the upper body and plants him with the CYCLORAMA (Overhead Belly to Belly Moonsault Slam). . . . . The crowd are going nuts, but they get even louder as Sydal hurries to his feet and drags the United States Champion in to the corner. He then races all the way up to the top rope with the entire crowd rising to its feet, watching on as Sydal leaps up in to the sky and comes down to connect with the SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . He got all of it and lands right on top of Benjamin, reaches across and hooks the leg as the ref rushes over to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3. . . . . It’s over! He’s done it!

“Axeman” hits to an enormous pop with Sydal just dropping his head in to his hands in absolute shock. He can’t believe what he’s just accomplished, but as he sits back up with a slight tear in his eye, he sees the crowd all on their feet, applauding his incredible victory. He then stands up with a huge smile on his face and gets his arm raised as Justin Roberts announces him as the 2008 WWE King of the Ring. It’s clearly an emotional moment for Sydal, who drops to his knees again and looks up to the sky, not seeming to believe it himself while the crowd continue to cheer.

He then stands back up, smiling as he walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, throwing his arms up in to the air to the delight of the ecstatic crowd in Los Angeles. He then does the same in all four corners, and as he gets to the final one, a huge pyro display takes place on the stage with Sydal turning to look up, shaking his head and smiling at the same time. However, Shelton Benjamin looks on with absolute contempt as he walks round to the ramp, but Sydal seems too caught up in the moment to notice him. He then steps down off the ropes and walks back in to the middle of the ring, dropping down to his knees once again with the camera zooming in on the look of disbelief on his face.


***Smackdown, June 20th 2008

Josh Matthews
is standing at the top of the stage with a throne just to his right. A robe is placed on a dummy with a crown on top and a sceptre resting on the throne.

Josh Matthews: Ladies and gentleman. It’s my pleasure t’ introduce to you, the 2008 WWE King of the Ring. . . MATT SYDAL.

“Axeman” hits to a big pop as a casually dressed Matt Sydal walks out to the stage to join Josh. He shakes his hand and looks in to the crowd with amazement at the terrific ovation he’s receiving. His music eventually stops and the crowd die down.

Matt Sydal: Y’know Josh, it’s still not really sunk in. I came here t’night and heard all about this crowning ceremony or whatever it is. It feels great an’ all but kind o’ like it’s a dream at the same time. . . No one was more surprised than me Josh when I won the King of the Ring, but I’m not gonna feel bad about it. I won every match fair and square y’know, it’s not like I did something wrong. I just did what I had t’ win each match, and if Shelton can’t handle that, then that’s his problem, not mine.

Josh Matthews: . . . There’s no doubt that you indeed deserved to be the last man standing and win the tournament. And with that said, I think it’s time we made this official.

Matthews walks over to the dummy and throne. He puts the microphone down on the throne alongside the sceptre before taking the robe off the dummy. He walks back over to Sydal and asks him to turn around, and he reluctantly does so, allowing Josh to put the robe on him. It gets a big cheer from the crowd, but Sydal looks really embarrassed. Josh then turns back and takes the crowd off the dummy’s head, then gently puts it on Sydal’s head to another big pop from the fans. Sydal shakes his head again, looking very embarrassed as Josh then turns back to collect the sceptre and the microphone. He then passes Sydal the sceptre.

Josh Matthews: There you go Matt. How does that feel? . . . Ladies and gentleman, give it up for the 2008 WWE King of the Ring. . . MATT SYDAL.

Sydal reluctantly salutes the crowd with the sceptre, still looking embarrassed as Josh claps with the fans doing the same. We then see Shelton Benjamin running out from the back, and he nails Sydal from behind, knocking him to his knees to a ton of heat from the Dayton crowd. Josh looks on in shock as Shelton pummels Sydal with a series of kicks to the back. He then tries to question Shelton, but The Gold Standard pushes him down to his knees with force. Benjamin then sees that the sceptre fell out of Sydal’s hand and hit the floor.

He picks it up as Sydal tries to stand back up, and he slowly manages to get to his feet. Shelton is lying in wait, armed with the sceptre, and as Sydal then turns round with the crowd desperately trying to warn him, Benjamin cracks him in the skull with the sceptre despite an a late attempt from Josh to stop him. Sydal just falls in a heap and looks to be out of it with the intense Benjamin leaning over his body with a sadistic look on his face as the fans boo like crazy. He then starts talking at Sydal, getting right in his face, but Sydal’s unconscious.

Shelton Benjamin: Did you really think I was gonna let some lucky punk kid get one over on me? . . . You’re gonna be very sorry, y’hear? Very sorry.

He then leans back and stands up, while still looking down at Sydal.

Shelton Benjamin: Congratulations.

The fans continue booing as Shelton then backs away from Sydal with a couple of EMT’s then coming out to check on Sydal, along with the concerned Matthews. The camera then zooms in on a shot of Benjamin grinning sadistically, and he then turns round and walks to the back as EMT’s continue to check on Sydal and call out for more help from the back.


***Smackdown, July 4th 2008
The UK Pack & MVP vs. The Masters of the Mat & Shelton Benjamin

The United States Champion stormed the ring to make a cover, but only got a two count. He then urged MVP up, but as he went for the Paydirt, MVP dodged it and reacted sharply for a DDT, only for Shelton to kick out at two. MVP then tagged in Harry Smith, and after a couple of near falls, including one Masters broke up, he lifted Shelton up for the Running Powerslam. As he ran towards the corner, Shelton slipped down and pushed him in to the pads before nailing Smith as he turned round with a roundhouse kick. The crowd then roared as Shelton urged Smith back up, but he didn’t see Matt Sydal race down the ramp. The crowd jumped to their feet as Sydal then slid in the ring, taking Shelton by surprise, but he was quick to turn to the side and run to the ropes and slide to the outside. He then jumped the security wall and ran through the crowd, followed by the extremely determined looking King of the Ring. The ref was left with no choice but to count Shelton out despite protests from both Masters & Haas.

***Later that night

Matt Sydal is pacing in the backstage area, stops and turns round hearing Maria shouting his name. He’s slightly out of breath and red faced as Maria walks up to him.

Maria: How are you doing, are you okay after you know, what happened two weeks ago?

Matt Sydal: Physically? Yeah I feel fine, but I’ll feel a whole lot better when I get my hands on Benjamin. . . I’m the King of the Ring, he’s not and that’s all that matters. He can call it luck all he wants, ‘cause we’re gonna find out at The Bash whether it was luck or not. It’s not the words that bother me you know. I’ll never be able t’ forget how he jumped me two weeks ago, but he’s gonna regret it, ‘cause I promise you Shelton, you’re gonna be sorry when I beat you again and take your United States title. . . But hey, what do I know? I’m just lucky right!


***Smackdown, July 11th 2008

“Ain’t No Stoppin’ Me”
plays to a chorus of boos as the casually dressed United States Champion, Shelton Benjamin steps out in to the arena. He has a big grin on his face as he walks down to the ring and then collects a microphone.

Shelton Benjamin: I’m sure a lot o’ you are wondering just why I’m looking so cool t’night when I’m just days away from going one on one with the boy wonder of the WWE, the 2008 King of the Ring. . . MATT SYDAL!. . . The kid that’s on a roll, a huge roll. He’s arguably the hottest guy in the company right now, or would be if it wasn’t for me bringing him crashing down t’ earth with a bang. . . See everyone needs to sit up and face the facts. . . Matt Sydal is a fluke!. . . It’s not up for debate. NO IFS, NO BUTS. MATT SYDAL GOT LUCKY. . . FACT!

“Axeman” blasts out to a huge pop as a very different looking Matt Sydal walks out to the stage. He looks very serious indeed as he walks down the ramp and stares right at an also serious looking United States Champion. Sydal picks up a microphone from the steps before climbing through the ropes and in to the ring.

Matt Sydal: I still want revenge Shelton, I know what it’ll do to you if I beat you one more time and take the United States title from you. We both know I can beat you and I’ve seen it every week since the King of the Ring how much that eats you up.

Shelton Benjamin: Lighting won’t strike twice Matt. You won’t beat me and you won’t take my title. I guarantee it.

Matt Sydal: That’s a big guarantee, but correct me if I’m wrong. By my estimation, I’ve beaten you twice. Remember that non-title match after Judgment Day? I’m afraid it looks like lightning can strike twice. . . In fact, I think I’m gonna make it three and 0 come Sunday. What do you people think?

*Massive Pop*

Shelton Benjamin:
SHUT UP! THEY’VE NEVER APPRECIATED ME OR MY TALENT. I’M GONNA SHOW EACH AN’ EVERYONE OF YOU THAT I’M BETTER THAN THIS FLUKE. . . I’M GONNA SHOW YOU THAT I SHOULD BE THE KING OF THE RING AN’ THAT I CAN BEAT THIS JOKE. AN’ WHEN I’M DONE, I’M GONNA RAM IT DOWN YOUR THROATS!

Sydal laughs while the intense Benjamin continues to stare in to the crowd. The Gold Standard then turns quickly and nails Sydal with the microphone, right to the head. It sends Sydal down to the mat and Shelton looks like he’s going to explode. He drops his belt along with the microphone and urges his rival to get up. Slowly he does so, and as he gets to his knees, Shelton steps back and then connects with the Paydirt to a chorus of boos in the Blue Cross Arena. He stares down at Sydal for several seconds before picking up his belt and lifting it above his head as “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Me” hits once again.


***The 2008 Great American Bash, July 13th
United States Championship
Matt Sydal vs. Shelton Benjamin (c)

Shelton takes several steps back as Sydal slowly gets to his feet, and Benjamin doesn't wait. He charges right at Sydal again, looking to hit the PAY DIRT!!!. . . . . Sydal dodges it again, pulling back as Shelton hits the deck. Sydal watches him sit back up but doesn't let him recover, turning back in to the ropes, running back and hitting a SIT DOWN DROPKICK TO THE FACE!!. . . . . The fans cheer the King of the Ring as he jumps back up and drags the helpless United States Champion close to the corner. The challenger then jumps up to the summit with Shelton lying flat out below him. He then jumps up in to the air and comes down looking to hit the SHOOTING STAR PRESS!!!. . . . . NO! SHELTON ROLLS TOWARDS THE ROPES AS SYDAL CRASH LANDS ON THE MAT!. . . . . The disappointment of the crowd is obvious, and as Shelton comes to, he rolls under the bottom rope and hits the floor.

He walks over to Justin Roberts and grabs a steel chair, and then his United States title. He walks back to the ring and slides the chair inside, but the referee sees it and grabs it straight away. Shelton slips back inside concealing the title as best he can as Sydal gets to his knees. The referee points at the chair and shouts at Benjamin. He then turns his back and slides the chair out of the ring, allowing Shelton to blast the groggy Sydal IN THE HEAD WITH THE UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP!!!. . . . . Boos ring out as Sydal falls to the mat and Shelton tosses the belt towards the corner, but as he does so and drops to make a cover, the referee sees the belt being thrown away. Benjamin looks guilty and the referee sees all he needs to in order to call for the bell and disqualify the champion.

The crowd craps all over the finish as Benjamin argues with the referee, who picks up the belt as Roberts announces the decision. The announcement of Shelton retaining the title generates even more heat, but the champion doesn't care less. He smirks and grabs the title from the referee straight away. He looks down at Sydal and raises it above his head, getting tons of heat from the New York fans. He then walks out to a chorus of boos as the starry eyed Sydal sits up, not sure of what just happened, only seeing Shelton smirking back at him from the ramp.


***Smackdown, 18th July 2008

An angry Tazz is in his office with a smug Shelton Benjamin.

Tazz: You're best off wipin' that stupid smile off y'face 'cause you ain't got no right been so pleased wit' yourself after the stunt you pulled Sund'y night. You're supposed t' be a champion, but you acted like a coward. You just proved ev'ryone right who says Sydal's got to ya, an' I agree with what they're sayin'. . . you can't beat 'im. . . You can't beat 'im an' y'took the easy way out. You make me sick. . . See me an' a whole lot people think Sydal deserves another shot. An' y'know what?. . . He's gonna get it.

Shelton Benjamin: HELL NO. I DON'T OWE HIM ANYTHIN'. HE HAD HIS SHOT AN' HE DIDN'T TAKE IT. BOTTOM LINE.

Tazz: The bottom line is I call the shots around here, not you. I get t' make the matches, like the one I made for The Bash between you 'an Sydal. You took the easy way out o' that, an' that's why champ, you'll be facin' 'im again at SummerSlam for the United States Championship. . . An' y'wanna know somethin' else?. . . If y'so much as think 'bout gettin' yourself dq'd again or counted out this time, you'll lose the title.


***Smackdown, July 25th 2008

Not looking to be in the best of moods and dressed in black trousers and a gold shirt, Shelton Benjamin has the United States title draped over his shoulder. As he gets in the ring, he doesn't look all that happy to be there, staring angrily at Michael Cole. He slowly walks towards him to collect the other microphone.

Michael Cole: It appears that there's a lot of doubt as to whether you can beat Matt Sydal. And if you look back at each of your previous three meetings. . . he's won all three. . . After the match at The Great American Bash, accusations were made that you deliberately took the easy way out because you felt you couldn't beat him. That leads me to my next question. . . Deep down, do you believe you can beat Matt Sydal?

Shelton shakes his head, looking both angry at shocked at Cole's question. He takes a couple of seconds to compose himself before answering.

Shelton Benjamin: From day one Cole, I was touted as one of the greatest prospects this company's seen for decades. . . I've won title after title for the last five an' a half years an' beaten legends like Ric Flair an' Triple H, so yeah Cole, despite what these idiots think, yeah I think. . . wait, I know I can beat Matt Sydal. And at SummerSlam, that's exactly what I'm gonna do. Then all the people who doubt me can kiss my ass.

*Heat*

Michael Cole:
Don't get me wrong Shelton, there's no doubt you've won numerous titles in your time here, but at SummerSlam, you have to do something that you've never done, and that's beat Matt Sydal. . . You were indeed touted as a great prospect from the moment you debuted right here on Smackdown, but some people have said that you've failed to live up to the potential. . .

Shelton Benjamin: . . . What people?. . . Come on Cole, tell me. What people have said that?

Cole looks surprised by what he said and like he doesn't know what to say.

Michael Cole: People.

Shelton Benjamin: What people? You?. . . You don't think I've lived up to my potential?. . . Do you think for a second I actually care what you think Cole?. . . The only person I care about is me. . . How about I show you first hand what I can really do. Why don't I do that huh?

Shelton shoves Cole down to the mat.

*Heat*

Shelton Benjamin:
Come on Cole, you wanted an answer. Get up an' I'll give y'one. . . GET UP!

Cole looks scared for his life as Shelton drops the microphone and his title. He walks slowly towards Cole and urges him to get up, but Cole understandably doesn't budge an inch. Benjamin then bends down, pulls him up and gets right in his face. He shouts right in Cole's panic stricken face, but as he lifts his right fist up, a huge cheer breaks out in the crowd. The confused United States Champion turns his head and sees Matt Sydal charging down the ramp. Benjamin lets go of Cole, who crawls to the side of the ring and the ropes as Sydal slides in under the bottom rope.

Shelton runs right at him as Sydal gets up, and the King of the Ring ducks a clothesline. They both turn round in a hurry with Sydal levelling Benjamin with a series of hard right hands, sending him up against the ropes. Sydal then steps back and clotheslines the United States Champion over the top to a big pop from the fans. Benjamin hits the floor and Sydal shouts at him to get back in. The pissed off Gold Standard stares right back up at him with a look that could kill, but he clearly doesn't want any of Sydal. The King of the Ring then backs up and helps Cole up with Shelton still looking on angrily, then reaches inside to grab his United States title as Sydal's music hits to a big pop.


***Smackdown, August 8th 2008
Matt Sydal vs. Chris Masters

The King of the Ring raced up to the top rope with Masters laid out a few feet in front of him, and just as it looked like he was going to hit the Shooting Star Press, he and the fans in attendance could only watch in shock as Charlie Haas slid in to the ring and started pounding his former tag team partner with several right hands to the head. With Haas kneeling down and pummelling Masters, the referee was left with no choice but to call for the bell and award the match to The Masterpiece via disqualification.

Sydal jumped down to the mat and tried to pull Haas off of Masters, but Haas was relentless. He pushed Sydal away and then the ref joined in, and together with Sydal they dragged Haas up and away from his former tag team partner. Sydal told him to calm down while the ref was more vocal and ordered him to leave the ring. Haas just glared at him, red faced and absolutely seething before looking down and seeing Masters holding his head. Seeming somewhat satisfied, he backed up and left the ring to quite a pop with the fans cheering him for unloading on The Masterpiece like that.

He immediately turned round and stormed up the ramp as the ref checked on Masters while Sydal turned to the stands, looking stunned at what just happened. We then heard some boos that confused Sydal, and we saw Shelton Benjamin slip in the ring behind him, surely having come through the crowd. The United States Champion had his eyes locked on Sydal, who then turned round in to a hard kick to the gut with Benjamin then following it up with the Paydirt to a ton of heat from the Newark crowd. He just grinned as he looked down at Sydal, who lay there completely out of it.


***Smackdown, August 15th 2008 (Two nights ago)

Matt Sydal
is being interviewed by Maria.

Matt Sydal: Yeah I’ve got a great record against Shelton and he’s never beaten me like ev’ryone’s said, but that could all change and I’ve still got t’ beat him too. It’s not gonna be that easy Maria. . . He’s not just gonna lie down an’ give me the title, an’ as much as some people are writing him off, there’s no way I am. . . It’s gonna be tough, real tough, but I’m ready for it. All I can do is go out there an’ give it my best shot, an’ that’s what I’m gonna do.

***Later that night
Shawn Michaels & Matt Sydal vs. CM Punk & Shelton Benjamin

Punk panicked big time and raced in to the ring, running right at Michaels, who emerged out of the corner and connected with a super kick that sent the World Champion under the bottom rope and to the floor. With Benjamin getting back up behind him, Michaels turned round and was whipped hard in to the corner. Benjamin went right after him and went for a Stinger Splash, but Michaels ducked and ran through as The Gold Standard jumped right on to the pads to a big pop. As he then turned round out of the corner all dazed, The Heartbreak Kid leaned back and took his head off with the Sweet Chin Music. The fans were on their feet and Michaels dragged Benjamin to his corner and tagged Sydal. The King of the Ring looked confused and Michaels told him to go up to the top, and he did with the fans going crazy to hit the Shooting Star Press and then cover Shelton to pick up the victory.

“Axeman” blasted out with the fans showing their appreciation for Sydal & Michaels who shared a brief congratulatory guy hug after getting their arms raised. Punk sat up on the outside, and he wasn’t happy. Michaels & Sydal then posed for the jubilant crowd in opposite corners with Sydal especially looking delighted with the victory heading in to SummerSlam on Sunday.

__________


{Cut to the Arena}


*Match #4*



WWE United States Championship
Title Can Change Hands By Disqualification or Count Out
Matt Sydal vs. Shelton Benjamin (c)

Last 10+ Minutes:
Sydal tries to get up to his knees with the focused Benjamin standing over him and watching his every move. The stern faced United States Champion reaches down and helps the challenger up to his feet, then whips him hard in to the corner and the turnbuckle pads at force. That hurts Sydal, and he walks out in pain, right in to a kick to the gut from The Gold Standard. Shelton now pulls Sydal’s head down and between his legs, still looking very serious indeed, determined to put his nemesis away.

He then grabs Sydal around the waist and lifts him up in the air, walks back towards the corner and drops him back first on to the turnbuckle pads, A TURNBUCKLE POWER BOMB!!. . . . . The camera zooms in on some fans wincing at that, and you can see how much the challenger is suffering as he writhes around in pain on the mat. Shelton’s not showing any sympathy for him whatsoever as you would expect, and he drags him away from the ropes by his legs and drops down to the mat to hook the leg and make a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . No!

The resilient King of the Ring gets a shoulder up, slightly frustrating the champion, who gives off the impression that he isn’t all that surprised. He stands back up, very business like as he turns round and walks over to the ropes. He steps through them and takes up a position on the apron, holding on to the top rope as the aching challenger struggles back up to his feet, and the second he gets up, The Gold Standard springboards and comes flying through the air looking to clothesline his opponent. Sydal forward rolls and dodges the attack. Both men rush up to their feet with Sydal running the ropes, charges back at Shelton who turns round and ducks his head, lifts Sydal off his feet and to his shoulders, then plants him with a hellacious SAMOAN DROP!!. . . . . Sydal hits the mat hard and the determined champion wastes no time in shimmying round to hook the leg and make a cover with the ref rushing over, dropping to his knees and making the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

No! Sydal lifts his shoulder up again, and the frustration shows on Benjamin’s face. He sits up, looks down at the squirming King of the Ring and shakes his head. He then stands back up and brings the sore Sydal with him, who’s not putting up any resistance and is then fired hard in to the corner and the turnbuckle pads at serious speed, resulting in a severe impact as Sydal’s chest hits them so hard he just falls to the mat. Shelton watches on sadistically, not showing much emotion at all as he just stares intensely towards his opponent, who tries to make his way back up.

He uses the ropes to help him, and Shelton doesn’t let him steady himself. The defending champion walks over and spins him round, then pulls him away and sets him up for a suplex. He lifts the challenger vertically up in to the air and walks back over to the ropes, drops him down on them and brings him crashing down on his back with a SLINGSHOT SUPLEX!. . . . . Shelton’s stealing a march in this match and immediately shimmies round on the mat to cover the King of the Ring, hooking both legs as the ref counts Sydal’s shoulders. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . No!

Benjamin glances at the referee for a second before looking back down at his opponent, who’s already moving around. The focused as hell champion gets back to his feet and backs away from Sydal, allowing him the chance to stand up. It’s a slight struggle for him, and he doesn’t know that The Gold Standard is standing by several feet behind him, psyching himself up for something. The King of the Ring now has to deal with his opponent charging at him for the PAYDIRT!!!. . . . . No, Sydal slips away to safety as Shelton hits the deck. He’s not down for long, and Sydal takes the chance to take a deep breath.

As Shelton then turns round, Sydal catches him with a FEINT ENZUIGIRI IN TO A HEAD SCISSORS TAKEDOWN!!. . . . . For the first time since he entered the ring, the crowd are cheering. He stands up as quickly as he can, followed by the stunned Benjamin. Sydal looks to get some momentum going, firing himself up as he grabs the champion by the wrist and whips him in to the ropes. He doesn’t wait around either, racing in at Shelton and levelling him with a side elbow strike right to the head. It sends the drowsy Benjamin slumping down the pads in to a seated position.

Sydal then backs away in to the centre of the ring before charging right back at him to nail him with a sit down double leg kick to the face. That really does turn the lights out on the United States Champion, and even some of the crowd show some concern for him, wincing as if they felt that kick themselves. Sydal doesn’t mess around either and drags him away by his feet in to the middle of the ring. He sits Shelton up, runs forward in to the ropes and comes back to level him with another stiff kick to the face, forcing it right back in to the canvas. The challenger drops to his knees as quickly as he can and desperately hooks Shelton’s leg to make a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

Sydal shakes off any disappointment and gets right back in to the groove, looking to keep this momentum going, standing up and pulling his opponent back up with him. He sets him up for a DDT, pulling Benjamin’s head under his arm, and instead of dropping to his knees, he runs in to the corner and steps up the ropes, looking to hit a SPRINGBOARD DDT!!. . . . . The champion fights back though and throws him off his shoulders, forward and down on to the canvas. We can hear the sighs coming from the crowd, but Sydal’s not planning on staying down as Shelton gets his breath back in the corner.

He sees Sydal getting back up and runs right at him, and this time Sydal catches him off guard, connecting with a LEG LARIAT!!. . . . . Sydal stands up to cheers from the crowd and heads straight to the corner, climbing through the ropes on to the apron and all the way up to the top rope as Shelton makes his way back up to his feet. Sydal finds his balance and then jumps off, taking Shelton down with a DOUBLE KNEE TAKEDOWN IN TO A COVER!!. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

Shelton kicks out, and Sydal stands back up right away with Shelton doing the same. The United States Champion isn’t far behind and turns round in to his opponent, who grabs him around the upper torso and doesn’t give him a second to escape, connecting with the an OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX, THE CYCLORAMA!!!. . . . . Cheers ring round the HP Pavilion as the King of the Ring gets up immediately and drags the champion towards the corner. He then steps through the ropes and climbs all the way up to the top rope with the fans starting to believe this could be it.

Some of them in the lower tier stand up and watch intently as Sydal looks down at the barely moving Gold Standard below him. He steadies himself and then leaps up in to the air, coming down for the SHOOTING STAR PRESS!!!. . . . . BUT NO! Shelton lifts his knees up in to Sydal’s stomach, and the winded challenger rolls to the side and on the mat clutching his stomach. The groggy champion lifts his head up and looks over in relief, still looking worse for wear himself. It takes him a few seconds before he can get to his knees, and he crawls forward straight away to Sydal and covers him with the ref rushing across the canvas to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . No!

Sydal kicks out and you can see that he’s still hurting, instantly rolling on to his side and clutching his stomach again as the weary United States Champion pulls himself back on to his knees and takes a deep breath. He stands up and drags his opponent up with him, then whips him as hard as he can in to the corner. Sydal’s back hits the pads and he remains still, leaning back against the pads as Shelton then runs in at him and hits the STINGER SPLASH!!. . . . . The focused Benjamin backs out of the corner with the clearly struggling King of the Ring staggering out in to his opponent’s clutches, and The Gold Standard grabs him around the upper torso, setting him up for the EXPLODER SUPLEX!!. . . . .

Shelton takes a second, and it’s a mistake as Sydal fights for his life, swinging his elbow in to the side of Benjamin’s head, freeing himself from Shelton’s grasp. The crowd cheers as Sydal fights through the pain and turns back to run the ropes. He comes running back at Shelton, who connects with a stiff kick to the gut that really hurts Sydal. He turns to his side and Shelton backs up and then goes for the PAYDIRT!!!. . . . . HE HITS IT!. . . . . Sydal is feeling the impact of that and rolls towards the apron with the desperate champion scurrying across the canvas to make a cover, hooking Sydal’s near leg for the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

Sydal gets his foot on the bottom rope to the relief and joy of the fans, and Shelton can’t believe it. He leans back in shock, staring at the foot that’s glaring back at him. Benjamin’s livid and pulls him away from the ropes to try for another cover with the referee counting the groggy Sydal’s shoulders. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

Sydal kicks out to the fury of the United States Champion, who leans back and stares a hole through the referee, questioning the count with his eyes. The ref stands up with the irate Benjamin joining him and telling him it was three, still in disbelief that he can’t put his arch nemesis away. The ref tries to tell him it was two, but he doesn’t want to hear it. He shrugs his shoulders and then turns round to see the King of the Ring trying to sit up. Benjamin walks over to him and reaches down to try and pull him up, but he’s in for a shock as Sydal sits up and pulls him in to a SMALL PACKAGE!! . . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

Kick Out! Shelton gets back up in a rush, followed by the still struggling challenger. The Gold Standard looks hell bent on putting his rival away and grabs him straight away, setting him up for an INVERTED FACE LOCK BACKBREAKER!!. . . . . There’s still life left in Sydal as he wriggles free and slips behind Benjamin. The champion turns round immediately, getting a kick to the gut, and the challenger thinks fast to plant him with a TORNADO DDT!!. . . . . He got all of it, and Shelton is out of it. He lays flat on his back a couple of feet away from the corner.

Still looking very sore, Sydal stands up and walks in to the corner, then steps through the ropes on to the apron. With the crowd cheering, the King of the Ring slowly begins to climb up to the top rope with Benjamin coming round. Sydal attempts to steady himself as Shelton gets to his feet and spots his opponent’s plan. He paces towards him and punches him in the chest, bringing Sydal’s plans to a grinding halt. He then climbs up to the second rope and tries to get Sydal in to place for a SUPERPLEX!!!. . . . .

He grabs Sydal’s head and pulls it under his arm, but the King of the Ring fights back again and shoves Shelton down to the mat. The champ isn’t moving as Sydal stands up again and steadies himself with the crowd rising to their feet, watching on as Sydal leaps up in to the air and comes down on Benjamin’s chest, connecting with the SHOOTING STAR PRESS!!!. . . . . HE HIT IT!. . . . . Sydal goes for the cover straight away, desperately clinging on to Benjamin’s leg as the referee gets in to place to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!

DING DING DING!


Winner: By pinfall, and the new WWE United States Champion, Matt Sydal @ 14:44.

Aftermath: “Axeman” blasts out to a huge pop as Sydal leans back on to his knees in shock. He then throws his arms up in the air as the referee walks over to the apron and collects the United States Championship belt that Sydal can now call his own. The new champion stands up with a huge smile on his face and he can’t take his eyes off the belt as the ref presents it to him and then raises his arm up in the air to another big cheer from the sell out crowd. He then drops the title down in to both hands and takes a long look at it before walking in to the corner, where he climbs up to the second rope and throws it up in to the air, looking absolutely delighted.

The fans cheer and applaud the new United States Champion who then steps down and goes to the opposite corner, posing with the title some more as Shelton begins to sit up, looking absolutely gutted. As Sydal then steps down and turns round, he & Benjamin look at each other. Sydal doesn’t know how to react as Benjamin glares at him, frustrated as hell that he couldn’t beat his bitter rival again. Sydal then leaves the ring and heads back up the ramp, slapping hands with the fans with Benjamin shaking his head as he looks on. The King of the Ring and the new United States Champion stops as he gets to the stage and turns round to lift his title high up in to the air one more time, still enjoying the moment.


{Cut Backstage}


We go inside the locker room of ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair & the WWE Champion, Batista. It appears that there’a a tense mood with The Animal looking very serious and on edge. Flair’s seemingly trying to reassure him.


Ric Flair: Dave, listen t’ me, seriously. I know, I know more than anyone how important my match with Hun’er is t’night, believe me, but that’s not for you t’ worry about. You’ve got a huge, HUGE match too. You’ve gotta think about that an’ that alone. F’get about me, ‘cause the only thing that should matter t’ you right now is making sure you do ev’rything, an’ I mean EV’RYTHING you can t’ make sure you walk out of the elimination chamber with the W W E title. . . I’m telllin’ y’Dave, if your head’s not in that match, you can kiss goodbye to bein’ the W W E Champion, an’ I sure as hell don’t wanna be responsible f’ that.

Batista: After ev’rything we’ve been through, do you really think it’s that easy just to f’get that Hun’er can end your career later on t’night?

Ric Flair: That doesn’t matter right now.

Batista: Of course it matters. Sure I’m gonna give the elimination chamber ev’rything I’ve got. . .

Ric Flair: . . . There you go. That’s the only thing you have t’ worry about. You let me worry about Hun’er alright?. . . Alright?

Batista: Alright, but no matter what happens t’night. . . I want you t’ know that I’m so grateful f’ ev’rything you’ve done f’ me an’ I always will be.

Ric hugs Batista for a few seconds.

Ric Flair: Hey, it’s been a pleasure. Just keep hold o’ that title y’hear. Then maybe we could go at it.

Batista smiles as things get emotional between the remaining members of Evolution.


{Cut Backstage}

The new United States Champion, Matt Sydal is all smiles as he walks through the halls and past other happy people who applaud him and appear to be just as happy as he is at his victory. With the title draped over his shoulder, he comes to the end of a line of superstars where his friend, Elijah Burke stands along with his girlfriend, Layla. They’re clapping too, as is Mickie James, who’s stood next to Layla.


Elijah Burke: Come here champ.

Sydal grins and gets a congratulatory hug from Burke with Layla & Mickie still smiling right next to them.

Matt Sydal: Thanks man.

Elijah Burke: Y’did great out there man. I’m so proud o’ ya.

Matt looks down at his title for a second before looking back at Burke.

Matt Sydal: I’m proud of me too!

Layla: You should be. You were amazing.

Sydal grins again, getting a little embarrassed.

Mickie James: You were. You deserved it.

Matt Sydal: Thanks, all of you. . . I’ll tell y’what. How about we all go out t’ celebrate, on me? After I get a shower that is.

They all seem to like that idea and Mickie looks a little smitten.

Elijah Burke: Oh you’ve got a deal my friend. . . You’re okay wit’ that right baby girl?

Layla: He said it’s on him, I’m very okay with that.

Matt Sydal: Alright I’ll go get changed. I won’t be long.

Sydal walks past them and Mickie turns round to face Burke & Layla.

Mickie James: When he said we all go out t’ celebrate, does he mean me too?

Layla: Yeah I think so, right baby?

Elijah Burke: I guess so. He won’t mind anyway. Y’know what he’s like.

Layla: Y’know ‘lijah, I think she wants t’ get t’ know him a bit more if you know what I mean.

Burke gets a nudge from Layla and Mickie starts to blush.

Mickie James: Layla.

Elijah Burke: You’ve still got time t’ jump in that shower wit’ ‘im if y’run. . . The United States title an’ a shower wit’ Mickie all in one night. He’s a lucky kid.

Layla: Oh, you’d like a shower with Mickie would you baby?

Elijah Burke: Oh hell yeah, but I’d love it even more if you were there too.

Layla: You wish.

Elijah Burke: Y’bet I do.

Layla: Well maybe we can arrange something if you’re a good boy.

Elijah Burke: Now that’s why I love y’girl.

Mickie James: I think I’ll leave you two to it.

Elijah Burke: Hey we’re only playin’. Come on, we’ll have fun.

Mickie James: That’s what I’m worried about.

Layla: Mickie, if you like Matt like I think you do, you have to come out. You won’t regret it, he’s the nicest guy I’ve ever met.

Mickie James: Really?

Elijah Burke: Yeah baby, really?

Layla: I don’t like nice, you know that you bad boy.

Layla slaps Burke’s behind to the surprise of Mickie, but Burke enjoys it. He & Layla then snuggle up.

Mickie James: This is going t’ be one strange night.

__________


*Video Recap*

***Smackdown, May 30th 2008

“Break The Walls Down”
hits to a big pop as Chris Jericho walks down to the ring, dressed in jeans and a white shirt with the top button undone. He picks up a microphone from the apron before stepping through the ropes to another big pop from the Canadian crowd.

Chris Jericho: Well, it’s been a long time, but Chris Jericho is back on Smackdown BABY!. . . As happy as I am to once again step foot in this ring, I’ve been thinking all day about what I was going to say when I got out here, but for once in my life I had no words. . . You don’t need to hear me tell you about just how great I am. I mean I’m the king of the world, everyone knows that, and let’s face it with the talent here on Smackdown opposed to Raw, I should be challenging to become the world champion. And that’s what I decided to talk about. . . the World Championship. Not me and my chances or desire to be the World Champion, but the World Championship match we witnessed at Judgment Day between two of the biggest names ever in this business. . . Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker. . .

*Big Pop*

Chris Jericho:
. . . And just like everyone else, I was excited. Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker could headline WrestleMania, but that didn’t matter as I sat down with my kids to watch what was no doubt an excellent match with two legends competing for the richest prize in our industry. . . However, as I sat and watched this match, it became clear to me that only one of these legends was at the top of their game, and that legend was Shawn Michaels. . . It was also clear to me that The Undertaker seems to have lost his way. . . It was painfully obvious that The Undertaker has become a mere shadow of what he used to be, clinging on to the reputation he’s managed to build up over all these years. You have to understand that I am in no way trying to diminish the legacy of The Undertaker, but there’s no getting away from the fact that he’s heading towards his own final journey.

A gong hits and the lights go out, followed by “Deadman’s Symphony” with The Undertaker walking down to the ring. Jericho remains calm as Taker climbs up the steps with the lights coming back on. Taker steps through the ropes and walks in to the middle of the ring, staring Jericho in the eyes from a couple of feet away.

Chris Jericho: Taker, I can understand how you would be upset or even angry by what I’ve said. It’s just my honest opinion of what I saw at Judgment Day, so I ask you to hear me out.

Taker’s expression remains the same with his eyes firmly locked on Jericho.

Chris Jericho: Where was The Undertaker of old that would beat his opponent before the match even started? What happened to the man that struck fear in to the heart of each of his opponents? . . . See Taker, I’m asking you this to your face as I simply don’t know anymore. You’re the only person that can convince us that your career isn’t on a rapid decline, because everyone that ordered Judgment Day last weekend will be under the impression that it’s just a matter of time before they watch The Undertaker walk away in to the night once again, but this will be the time that he doesn’t come back.

Taker steps forward, getting right in Jericho’s face, but Jericho isn’t fazed.

Chris Jericho: I’m telling you this for your own good, but I am going to leave with you one last thought. I want you to think about why you’re still here, where that burning desire is and if it will ever come back. And if it’s not there Undertaker, I think you need to take a very serious look about your next career step, because these people don’t want to see the same Undertaker that turned up at Judgment Day. If you can’t get back to the old Undertaker that reached those great heights, I think we both know it’s time you walked away once and for all.

There’s a look of blankness on The Undertaker’s face as Jericho then steps back and walks over to the ropes, stepping through them and walking to the back with Taker looking very much in deep thought.


***Smackdown, June 6th 2008

“Break The Walls Down”
hits to a mixed reception with Chris Jericho making his way down to the ring in a suit. He looks to be very serious as he steps in to the ring having collected a microphone.

Chris Jericho: I stand before you tonight with the need to set the record straight. . . It appears that a number of people took exception to the words I directed at The Undertaker last week, taking them out of context and becoming under the impression that I was in some way attempting to insult The Undertaker. . . But if you people want to know exactly what I think of what The Undertaker has become, I will tell you because I for one am not intimidated in the least by the dead man. . . The conclusion that I personally came too at Judgment Day was that The Undertaker has reached the end of the read. . . The bell has tolled on his near twenty year tenure in the WWE. You might not want to believe it, but I’m sure deep down that you all know that what I’m saying right now is the truth. It will indeed be a dark day, but it had to happen sometime, and that time is now for The Undertaker to do the right thing. And I’m sure you can hear me Undertaker, I’m not afraid to say that we’re waiting for you to close the lid on the casket for the final time. The question is Undertaker, are you too afraid to admit the truth? You need to realise. . .

*Gong*

The lights go out and “Deadman’s Symphony” hits to a huge pop inside the arena as The Undertaker slowly walks through the smoke and down to the ring. Jericho doesn’t look fazed as the dead man climbs up the steps and the lights come back on with Taker then climbing through the ropes and walking up to him with a menacing look in his eyes.

Chris Jericho: You’re an intelligent man Undertaker, and that’s why I believe you already know what I’m saying, I can see it in your eyes. For once in your career, you’re scared, but there’s nothing wrong with admitting that. . . Someone needs to put you out of your misery Undertaker, because the longer you stick around and ignore reality, your legacy will fade more and more in to insignificance, and I don’t believe you want that. What you’ve done is impressive, but Taker. . . you’re done.

Taker grabs Jericho by the throat and stares right at him with Jericho looking stunned as he stares right back. Taker pauses for several seconds before letting go to a ton of heat with Jericho smirking as he recovers from the choking while Taker keeps his eyes on him.

Chris Jericho: Right there, we all saw the fear Undertaker. You’re scared. . .

Taker loses it and grabs Jericho around the throat, and this time he chokeslams him down to the mat to a huge pop from the crowd. “Deadman’s Symphony” hits to a big pop as Taker stares down at the motionless Jericho.

***Later that night

CM Punk, the World Heavyweight Champion
walks down to the ramp in quite a bad mood. As he gets in the ring, he pulls his shirt off and drops it down to the floor below, opting to keep the World Championship belt on his shoulder for as long as he can. The lights then go out as a gong hits with “Deadman’s Symphony” then hitting to an enormous pop inside the arena. As smoke surrounds the stage, The Undertaker then makes his entrance in to the arena, walking slowly out to the stage with Punk nervously staring up at the dead man. Taker stops at the top of the stage and looks down at Punk for a couple of seconds, but we then see Chris Jericho run up behind him with a steel chair and drive it across the spine of The Undertaker. Boos ring out and the music stops as the lights also come back on.

Taker falls to his knees with Jericho then nailing him in the back once more with another shot from the chair, and then another. Taker falls on his front with Jericho then continuing the attack, nailing Taker with a further five shots across the back with the chair to a barrage of boos from the fans in attendance. Punk looks on from the ring grinning as Jericho then shifts to the side of Taker’s head and lifts the chair up above his head one more time before bringing it crashing down on to the back of the dead man’s head, resulting in a sickening thud. Boos continue to ring out around the arena as Jericho then drops the chair and looks in to the crowd with a sadistic smile on his face while they boo him out of the arena. He then turns round and smugly walks to the back while Punk walks over in to the middle of the ring and applauds Jericho as EMT’s then rush out to check on The Undertaker’s condition.


***Smackdown, 13th June 2008

Josh Matthews:
Chris, first off I have to ask you about what happened last week when you not just prevented a main event for the World Heavyweight Championship, but attacked The Undertaker in the process in what was. . .

Chris Jericho: . . . In what was what Josh? A barbaric assault? . . . Quite frankly I’ve heard my actions described in many different ways over the last seven days, but not one person has said they were courageous, because that’s what they were. . . I did what had to be done for the sake of The Undertaker’s legacy, and if all these people had a single ounce of intelligence, they would see that my actions were courageous and that I did The Undertaker a favour. Whether he sees it that way or not is not my concern as I have to think about Chris Jericho right now, and as long as The Undertaker is still pushed ahead of me in to the limelight, then I have to take actions in to my own hands, and that’s why I did what I did last week. However, if The Undertaker continues to ignore the fact that’s staring him in the face. . . that being that his career is in its final stages, then I have to be the man that ensures he is guided in the right path so that he sees things as they really are. It should be people like me that are challenging for the World Championship, not someone on their last legs and in need of a desperate wake up call to see that it’s time to step in to the shadows once and for all.


***Smackdown, June 20th 2008
Non-Title Match
CM Punk vs. Chris Jericho

Punk continues to hold on, and despite Jericho’s determination to keep the Walls of Jericho locked in, the World Champion somehow manages to drag himself towards the ropes, starting to worry Jericho. He holds on for dear life, but Punk drags himself closer and closer, and he reaches out with the bottom rope within touching distance, and he gets there. That’s met differently by the crowd, but the arena’s hot as Jericho is forced to release the hold, which he does ever so reluctantly. He throws a strop at the referee as he stands up while Punk recovers by the ropes. Jericho then backs away from him and urges him up once again, setting his sights on a World Championship match, but as Punk sits up, the lights go out and a gong hits. The crowd goes nuts, and after about five seconds, the lights come back on to a huge roar with The Undertaker standing behind Jericho. The Canadian looks round nervously from side to side, but as he turns round to see the dead man, his jaw drops. The Undertaker then grabs him by the throat and lifts him up off his feet and in to the air, then sends him crashing down to the mat with a ferocious CHOKESLAM!!!. . . . . The referee is left with no choice but to call for the bell, awarding the match to Jericho by disqualification. Everyone is on their feet cheering as Taker stares down at Jericho, flat on his back and eyes wide shut in the middle of the ring.


***Smackdown, 18th July 2008
The Undertaker & Christian vs. Edge & Chris Jericho

Edge & Jericho made their entrances, then Christian. Captain Charisma got in the ring with Tomko and posed in the corner on the second rope with Jericho & Edge out of shot and out of the ring. They then stormed the ring behind the backs of Christian & Tomko with steel chairs in hand. Jericho nailed Tomko, and as Christian stepped off the ropes and turned round, The Rated-R Superstar drilled his brother with the other chair. The fans booed but things got worse for Christian as aided by Jericho, Edge placed one of the chairs under his brother's head before using the other to hit a con-chair-to to a barrage of boos. The Undertaker's gong and music hit, gaining the full attention of Jericho & Edge. They watched on carefully as Taker made his way down the ramp and the referee checked on Christian with Tomko having already rolled to the floor.

The dead man took off his jacket as usual, showing no fear as he stepped in to the ring. He charged at Jericho and knocked him down with a clothesline and ducked a chair shot from Edge. He grabbed him around the throat for a chokeslam, but Jericho low blowed him, sending him down to his knees. Jericho then grabbed the chair from Edge and smashed the phenom across the skull as he sat up. Taker fell flat on his chest and Edge turned to Christian before going over to get the other chair. He placed it under Taker's head and Jericho's face lit up. He smiled at The Rated-R Superstar, understanding what he was setting up and then gave the dead man a con-chair-to of his own. The fans booed even louder as their fellow Canadians looked down and smiled at their work.

Tazz comes out to the stage with a microphone in hand.

Tazz: Well done fellas, real impressive.

Edge & Jericho look up at him with big smiles on their faces.

Tazz: Y'know what? I'm real happy y'both look so pleased wit' yourselves based on what I'm 'bout to say. . . You're best off enjoyin' the moment while y'can guys 'cause let me tell y'somethin, the dead man an' Christian ain't gonna be like that f' long. . . An' that brings me t' you Chris. Y'wanna put Taker out o' his misery as y'put it?. . . Well you've got your chance, 'cause at SummerSlam, you're gonna take a trip t' the dark side when you face The Undertaker.

Jericho smirks slightly and Tazz stares right down at both of them.


***Smackdown, August 1st 2008

A suited & booted Chris Jericho is standing in the middle of the ring with a microphone in hand.

Chris Jericho: I accept that ev'ry single one of you are naive enough to believe The Undertaker's legacy actually amounts to something, but you have to accept that after SummerSlam, all that will you have of The Undertaker are memories of him and his legacy as you will never hear from or see him again.

The crowd boo the hell out of Jericho, and it doesn't bother him as much as it did before.

Chris Jericho: The sooner you accept that I am right the better, because it's not a matter of if I beat The Undertaker at SummerSlam and bring the curtain down on his incredible career, it's a matter of when. . . And even though he refuses to accept what I've been saying all along, The Undertaker should be very concerned. . . he should be afraid of the outcome I've predicted and expect because when it comes to down to getting the job done in this ring, I am the best this world has to offer. . .

A gong echoes all around the arena and the lights go out, met with a deafening pop from the fans. Smoke is blown across the stage and out walks The Undertaker, sending the crowd crazy. Jericho watches on intently as the always menacing Undertaker slowly makes his way down the ramp. He then walks up the steps and up come the lights to a huge roar with Jericho staring right at the phenom, and as Taker climbs through the ropes, he picks a microphone up off the apron. He then walks towards Jericho, and both men lock their eyes on each other, doing their best to unsettle the other. Taker then steps back and lifts the microphone to his mouth.

The Undertaker: Hell and fury lies in wait at SummerSlam. You will be subjected to misery and suffering you never thought existed. . . Many mortals who have suffered at my hands refused to acknowledge their fear, yet they have all fallen at my hands. . . You will not be an exception. . .

Chris Jericho: . . . Yes I will because I am not just any mortal. I am the best in the world at what I do and I do not fear you, the dark side or the unkown one tiny bit. . . The Undertaker has finally reached the end of the road and the time is near for you to rest in pea. . .

Taker grabs Jericho around the throat, sending the crowd crazy. He stares right in to his eyes, and Jericho looks scared now with the phenom glaring in to his soul. As the dead man then lifts him off his feet for a chokeslam, Jericho manages to jump down and flees to safety. The fans boo as he back tracks from the ring and heads towards the ramp, looking very relieved to have dodged that bullet, and The Undertaker has him firmly in his sights, not taking his eyes off of Jericho. A gong hits again, then The Undertaker's music hits to a big pop with Jericho definitely unsettled as he looks up at his future, a date with destiny at SummerSlam with The Undertaker.


***Smackdown, August 8th 2008

A very serious Chris Jericho is being interviewed by Maria.

Chris Jericho: The Undertaker is the one that should be intimidated, and when he looked in to my eyes last week, he was. He saw that I do not fear him and that I see through his so called decade of destruction. That is why he panicked and reacted by chokeslamming me, a mistake that will come back to haunt him because no one makes a fool out of Chris Jericho. . . Now I realise that statement will fall on deaf ears but you have to understand that I am in the best in the world at what I do, better even than The Undertaker, and that is why in nine days the entire world will have no choice but to accept ev’ry last word I’ve said about The Undertaker because I vow to the watching world that I can and will defeat the dead man. . . Then nobody will ever doubt Chris Jericho ever again.

***Later that night
Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker

Taker grabbed hold of the worn down Michaels by the throat and it looked like only a matter of time before he would gain the win. As he then lifted Michaels for a chokeslam, The Showstopper jumped down and landed on his feet. He threw a wild right that rattled Taker and turned back in to the ropes, ran back and went for another flying forearm, but Taker ducked and Michaels collided with the referee. The crowd were stunned, as was Michaels. Still on his knees, he gazed down in shock at the referee lying there helpless.

Meanwhile, The Undertaker was only thinking about his opponent and not the referee, raising his right hand in to the air, getting ready seemingly for a chokeslam. Jericho looked round for some reason, as if he was checking the coast was clear before then sneaking in the ring. The fans tried to warn the dead man, but he was too focused on Michaels to notice as Jericho walked up behind him and sent him down to the mat in agony with a Codebreaker. The fans didn’t hold back in letting Jericho know what they thought of him, booing the crap out of him. He looked down and smiled sadistically at seeing his SummerSlam opponent out of it.


***Smackdown, August 15th 2008 (Two nights ago)

Chris Jericho
, suited and booted walks out to the stage and shows a look of total disgust at the reaction of the English crowd. He continues down the ramp looking very serious and displeased with the negative reception of the crowd. With the same frown on his face as he gets in the ring, he walks over to the apron and asks for a microphone, then walks back in to the centre of the ring. The music cuts and the boos echo around the LG Arena, continuing to frustrate Jericho.

Chris Jericho: For nearly twenty years, it is said that The Undertaker has reigned supreme in the WWE, destroying ev’ryone in his path when in fact that is simply not the case. . . The naïve wrestling world failed to see what was staring them in the face. The Undertaker is not and never has been a success as far as championships are concerned. His legacy has been built on the supposed fear he puts in to his opponents and the remarkable WrestleMania winning streak. That streak includes victories over other legends like Giant Gonzalez, ‘The Supreme Fighting Machine’ Kama, A-Train and Mark Henry. That is the point I’ve been trying to make all along. The record of The Undertaker is not what it appears to be. . . There is no doubt in my mind that I would have beaten The Undertaker on the greatest stage of them all. I am not greedy however as I would happily accept the victory I will gain at SummerSlam. . . Just like last week, The Undertaker will suffer defeat at SummerSlam, this time at the hands of Chris Jericho, and let me remind you that I am the best in the world at what I do. That is why the dead man will. . .

*GONG*

The lights go out inside the LG Arena to a massive cheer as a casket is wheeled out by six druids. A white spotlight in the ring shines down on Jericho, who does look spooked. He watches the druids’ every move as they push the coffin down the ramp and up against the apron. The druids then walk back up the ramp with the lights still out while Jericho nervously looks towards the casket with no sign of The Undertaker. As the druids walk through the curtain, the lights are still out except the one spotlight and Jericho hesitantly walks over to the apron, staring at the casket the entire time. He looks down at it and thinks about reaching over to open the lid, changing his mind as he’s about to do it.

He then plucks up the courage and grabs the lid, then pulls it slightly and the lights go out to a big pop. As they come back on, there’s a big pop and the casket is being held open by Jericho, but he doesn’t see that The Undertaker is standing behind him looking as menacing as ever. The tron has zoomed in on the side of Jericho’s face, and he can’t see the dead man lurking behind him with his right arm raised for the chokeslam. A worried Jericho drops the lid, and as he turns round slowly, Taker grabs him by the throat to a huge roar and steps back away from the ropes, turns round and chokeslams The King of the World.

The fans cheer like crazy as Taker then signals for the Tombstone with Jericho laid out at his feet. The phenom reaches down and drags the lifeless Jericho up, then scoops him over his shoulder and it to position for the Tombstone Piledriver. The fans are going crazy and Taker now drops to his knees and drills Jericho’s head in to the canvas, generating another massive cheer from the English fans. “Graveyard Symphony” plays and the lights go out with a purple spotlight shining down on Taker who leans back and poses by lifting his right hand up as if he was signalling for the urn. He then drops the arm and stares down at the lifeless Jericho as Smackdown comes to a close.

__________


{Cut to the Arena}


*Match #5*



The Undertaker vs. Chris Jericho

Last 10/15 Minutes:
The intense as ever Undertaker reaches down and pulls the weary Jericho back up to his feet and scoops him up on to his shoulder. He now steps back and runs in to the corner, looking to drop his opponent on to the pads head first for the snake eyes, but Jericho wriggles free and to safety down the dead man’s back. The desperate and resourceful Canadian quickly chops blocks him in the back of the ankle. Taker drops to the mat with the heavy breathing Jericho smirking on his knees in to the crowd. They boo him and he revels in it, slowly standing up with a wry smile on his face before grabbing hold of the top rope, using it leverage as he jumps up and stamps down on the phenom’s left ankle.

He smirks again as The Undertaker grabs his ankle, clearly in agony, but Jericho’s not done. He turns round and grabs the ankle, then rests it on the bottom rope. The King of the World grabs the top rope again before stamping on The Undertaker’s ankle, and he does it again with the dead man pulling himself and his ankle away as Jericho turns round and looks down with a great deal of satisfaction. The Undertaker rolls around clutching his ankle with his opponent walking out towards him, taunting the phenom as he tries to get up. Jericho lets him as Taker hobbles up to his feet.

The Canadian quickly sends him back down with a swift kick to the side of the ankle. Jericho enjoys the sight of The Undertaker struggling, and as the dead man tries to get up again, Jericho watches intently, then walks past him in to the corner. He steps through the ropes and climbs up to the top rope with Taker getting to his knees. Jericho steadies himself and then jumps off, planting the phenom with a DIVING BULLDOG!. . . . . The calm and collected Canadian shimmies forward on his knees as Taker rolls on to his back with his opponent then hooking his leg for a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . No!

The Undertaker kicks out and Jericho isn’t as cool anymore. He stands back up with Taker still looking troubled by his ankle, and Jericho looks to capitalise. He grabs his opponent’s left leg and applies a SINGLE LEG LOCK!!. . . . . Jericho drops to the mat and applies the pressure to the dead man’s already injured ankle. Taker holds on despite clearly being in severe pain with Jericho leaning back, sat up with his hands firmly placed on the mat, pressing down on them to get more leverage. The fans try to encourage the phenom, and it has an effect as The Undertaker responds, fighting to hang on in by sitting up and driving his right boot towards Jericho.

He’s not getting close enough until one powerful strike connects with his opponent’s face. So much so that Jericho’s knocked back on to his back with the hold being released as a result. Jericho’s been dazed by that blow and Taker’s struggling in a big way as he pulls his legs in to his body. He tries to stand up, as does Jericho, and The Undertaker is finding it very hard to do so, not able to put much weight on his left leg. He hobbles to the ropes and uses them to help him get his balance when Jericho charges at him, and Taker sees him coming, then lifts him over his shoulder and over the ropes.

The crowd’s cheers don’t last long at all as Jericho lands on the apron. Taker turns round in shock and ends up getting his neck snapped down on to the top rope. Jericho then slips back in the ring as Taker hobbles around with Jericho then taking him down with a snap mare. He then levels him in the back with a stiff kick to the back. Taker falls back flat on to his back with Jericho then turning to the side and running the ropes, spring boarding and hitting the LIONSAULT!!. . . . . He gets all of it and lands on the dead man’s chest, reaches to the side and grabs his leg for a cover with the referee rushing across to drop to his knees and make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO! The Undertaker gets his shoulder up, much to the inconvenience of Jericho. The very serious Canadian stares down at him with disgust as the phenom tries to sit up. Jericho slowly returns to his feet and backs away from his opponent, allowing him to try and get back up. He doesn’t take his eyes off of the struggling Undertaker, who still finds it difficult to put any weight on his left leg. As he gets up, Jericho loses it and runs back towards him, going for the CODE BREAKER!!!. . . . . No! Taker pulls back and Jericho falls to the mat, resulting in a big cheer inside the HP Pavilion. The Undertaker, still hobbling, reaches down and pulls his opponent back up.

He whips him in to the ropes and lifts his right boot up, looking to drive it in to Jericho’s face, but the Canadian ducks underneath it. Both men turn round in a hurry with Jericho acting first to send the dead man back down by drop-kicking his left leg. Jericho’s not smiling now. He firmly means business, going right back after his opponent. He grabs The Undertaker’s left boot and turns him over on to his stomach, then tries to apply the ANKLE LOCK!!. . . . . Taker fights it though instantly and doesn’t let Jericho lock it in, turning over on to his back and driving his right boot in to Jericho’s face again to a pop from the California crowd.

Jericho falls back and hits the mat with Taker trying to stand up again. The Canadian makes his way back up and sees his opponent’s still unsteady on his feet, and then runs at him for a clothesline. Taker ducks it and then plants him with a SIDEWALK SLAM!!. . . . . The crowd cheers again as Taker stands back up, glaring at the squirming Jericho with both men then trying to get back up. The dead man doesn’t take his eyes off Jericho for a second, looking as menacing as ever as he grabs Jericho by the wrist and whips him in to the corner. He runs in at him and clobbers with a hard clothesline across the upper torso.

He then whips him hard in to the opposite corner and follows in at him to level him with another vicious clothesline. He then turns round and runs in to the ropes as a groggy Jericho staggers out of the corner and is then drilled by an oncoming Jericho with a BIG BOOT TO THE FACE!!. . . . . Jericho appears to be in trouble as he sits up looking very dazed with Taker staring at him. The dead man then raises his right hand up in the air, seemingly sizing his opponent up for a CHOKESLAM!!. . . . .

Jericho unwittingly stands back up and is grabbed around the throat by the focused Undertaker. He stares a hole deep inside Jericho’s soul as he chokes him with the fans cheering. He then lifts his opponent off his feet, but Jericho jumps down to safety, surprising the dead man who gets a kick to the ankle. The desperate Jericho watches Taker drop on to one knee and then backs away from him before running back at him to nail him with a RUNNING ENZUIGIRI!!. . . . . Taker falls back and doesn’t appear to be moving as Jericho scurries across on his knees to make a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Jericho looks down in shock as The Undertaker gets his shoulder up. The Canadian can’t believe it and gazes across at the referee, clearly believing he’s got it wrong, but he hasn’t. Jericho quickly figures it out and loses his head. He stands up right away and shifts round to the dead man’s legs, lifts them up off the mat and tries to turn him on to his back for the WALLS OF JERICHO!!!. . . . . Taker tries to block it and Jericho’s shocked. He’s not relenting though and uses every bit of strength he has to turn him over and lock in the deadly submission hold, frightening the hell out of the San Jose crowd.

“TAKER, TAKER, TAKER. . .”

The red-faced Jericho shuts out the chants and puts a ton of pressure on Taker’s lower back, doing everything he can to make his opponent tap out. It’s not happening though as The Undertaker gives it everything he has to escape the hold with the fans still cheering him on. He drags himself towards the ropes, concerning Jericho, who tries to keep the hold locked in as Taker gets closer to the ropes, within touching distance of them. He reaches his hand out, trying to grab the bottom rope, but Jericho drags him away from the ropes and keeps the pressure on the pain ridden Undertaker.

The fans are concerned but continue to chant and try to encourage him by chanting his name. He responds to the encouragement and drags himself towards the ropes again, getting close to them with Jericho panicking again. This time he can’t stop The Undertaker getting there as he reaches out to grab the bottom rope to the relief and ecstasy of the sell-out crowd. Jericho’s in shock again and keeps the hold locked in. The ref tells him to let the hold go, and he only does so at the count of four.

He reluctantly stands up and is held back by the referee as The Undertaker clings on to the bottom rope in a whole world of pain. He begins to sit up with Jericho desperate to get back at him, walking past the referee to reach down and pull him up, but Taker shoves him away. Taker pulls himself up using the ropes as Jericho runs back at him and in to an extended elbow from the dead man. The Canadian is sent staggering away from the ropes, and as they walk out towards each other, Taker whips him in to the opposite side of the ring and off the ropes.

The phenom turns round and hits the ropes himself, running back to meet Jericho in the centre of the ring and send him head first in to the mat, drilling him with a RUNNING DDT!!. . . . . A big pop meets that as Jericho sits up in a spin, not knowing where he is as the focused as hell Undertaker stands back up, still with difficulty. He pulls his straps down as Jericho gets to his feet and turns round to the face dead man, and the phenom grabs him by the throat, then lifts him off his feet and plants him with a CHOKESLAM!!. . . . . Jericho is flat on his back, not moving, and The Undertaker drops to his knees, hooks the leg with the referee rushing across to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Shoulder up! A barely lifeless Jericho lifts his head up, and The Undertaker stands back up, staring down menacingly at his opponent. He then brings his arm across his neck, signalling for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!. . . . . Jericho’s in deep trouble now as he struggles to his feet, and unbeknown to him, Taker is getting ready to finish him off. Jericho gets up, still dazed as he turns round and is scooped off his feet and up on to the dead man’s shoulder. The Canadian wriggles around, trying desperately to escape, and he does so.

He slips down Taker’s back and grabs him around the waist, seemingly trying for a german suplex, but Taker easily blocks it by swinging his elbow back in to the side of Jericho’s head. Some fans cheer as the starry eyed Jericho falls to the mat and crawls to the ropes holding his head. The phenom wanders across and tries to drag him back up, but the clever Jericho jumps back up and catches him with the CODE BREAKER OUT OF NOWHERE!!!. . . . . Taker’s in real danger as he hits the mat with Jericho throwing himself on top of him and hooking the near leg for a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

. . . . .

NO! The Undertaker gets his foot on the rope to a huge pop. Jericho leans back in amazement, looking in to the crowd, completely gob smacked that the dead man clung on. He looks up at the referee again in hope that it’s a mistake. It’s not and Jericho realises that. He snaps out of the shock as he sees Taker getting back up by the ropes, and Jericho stands back up. He helps Taker up and goes for another CODE BREAKER RIGHT BY THE ROPES!!!. . . . . Taker blocks it and holds on to the top rope as Jericho hits the deck. With the fans cheering, Taker bends down and tries to drag his opponent up, but the devious Canadian pushes him away.

The dead man stumbles back in to the referee with his back knocking the ref down to the canvas. Taker turns round and sees the ref isn’t moving as Jericho reaches in to his trunks and pulls out what appears to be brass knucks. Some of the fans realise and boo as Jericho slips them on to his fingers, and Taker turns round, not having a clue. He walks over to him and is about to pull him up when Jericho stands up and NAILS HIM WITH THE KNUCKS!!!. . . . . The fans boo like crazy and Jericho quickly disposes of them, putting them back in his trunks when he sees the referee is on the mat too. The dead man is flat out and Jericho goes to the ref.

He looks worried and tries to shake some life in to him, and it works. The ref comes to, much to Jericho’s relief. But as he turns round, he sees The Undertaker coming round too. The dead man looks like he is all but a dead man. The lights are on but no one’s home as Jericho shifts round and urges him to get back up. Slowly he does so, unaware of Jericho lurking with serious intent. Taker just about gets to his feet and turns round when Jericho explodes with the CODE BREAKER!!!. . . . . He got all of it and crawls round on his knees straight away and throws himself in to a cover as the shaky ref crawls across on his knees to count the dead man’s shoulders. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!

IT’S OVER!


Winner: Chris Jericho by pinfall @ 19:08.

Aftermath: “Break Down The Walls” hits to a ton of heat as Jericho stands up with a real smug look on his face. The groggy referee picks himself back up while Jericho smirks at the fans that are booing him, but when he gets up, he raises the cocky Jericho’s arm in victory. Still grinning widely, he walks to the ropes and laughs at the fans before turning round to leave the ring. He walks up the ramp and turns round, still smirking as The Undertaker tries to sit up, gazing in his direction. Jericho laughs at him as Taker stares a hole through him, not that it changes the smug Jericho’s mood one bit.


{Cut Backstage}


Todd Grisham
is standing by at the interview set.

Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentleman, please welcome my guest at this time. He is the World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk.

The camera zooms out and we get to see a very serious CM Punk standing alongside Grisham. The Straight-Edge Superstar is wearing one of his own black T-shirts, and the glittering world title is draped over his shoulder.

Todd Grisham: Later on this evening, you will be defending the world title against ‘The Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels. . . Some people have claimed this is the biggest match of your career. Would you agree with that statement and how are you feeling about facing Shawn Michaels t’night?

CM Punk: One of the reasons I make such a great world champion is that I don’t get carried away with my own success. I know exactly what challenge faces me ev’ry time I step in that ring, and t’night’s no diff’rent. . . In fact, t’night is diff’rent Todd. I’m more prepared than I ever have been. I know ev’rything there is to know about The Showstopper. I know how good Shawn Michaels is on this stage. I’ve seen all his big matches throughout his career, and when it comes to the big occasion like t’night, there truly is no one better than Shawn Michaels. That’s why I have t’ raise my game to a whole new level when I step in t’ that ring later on, and that’s exactly what I’ll do, because this title means ev’rything t’ me. I’ve worked my ass off to even get a shot in this company, so there’s no way I’m gonna rest on my laurels now that I am the World Heavyweight Champion.

Todd Grisham: I’m sure you won’t mind me saying this as you said it yourself that there were questions raised in regard to you being the world champion due to the manner in which you won it from Shawn Michaels at Judgment Day. . . You overcame massive odds to retain the title that night, but t’night no one is making you an underdog. Do you feel that you’ve managed to prove yourself to those people that questioned your right to be the champion?

CM Punk: Admittedly I didn’t win my first world title in the manner I would have wanted. If I had it my way, I wouldn’t have won it on a night like this, but that doesn’t change the fact I won the title fair and square. That’s the beauty of money in the bank. It presents you with the kind of opportunity I found myself in at Judgment Day. I was smart and I’m not ever going to apologise for what happened that night. . . To answer your question, yeah I do think I’ve proved myself as a more than capable world champion, and I think people f’get that you don’t just become a worthy world champion from the moment you’re presented with that shiny belt you’ve worked your entire life for. I’ve worked to get where I am today and in to situations like this on the big stage against the biggest names this industry’s ever seen, so that one day CM Punk will be one of those names. T’night is where my legacy begins, and where better f’ when people look back at this night years from now to the night that I defeated The Showstopper, where I proved I could compete with the very best this industry has to offer. . . I know that I have the ability and the desire to do just that, and if I beat Shawn Michaels t’night, then the CM Punk legacy begins right here.

Punk stares intently in to the camera then walks out leaving Grisham all alone.

__________


*Video Recap*

***Vengeance, May 29th 2008

Eric Bischoff:
You are gonna see a WWE Championship match here t’night, I assure you of that. . . So, whoever wins out of you two will go on t’ face Kane in a triple threat match along with the man who claims the pinfall or submission in our next match between Evolution and The Corporation.

Mr. Kennedy vs. Randy Orton
They’re both groggy as they return to their feet, Orton stands behind Kennedy, waiting for him to turn round, and as he does so, Orton grabs him by the head, going for the RKO!!!. . . . . Kennedy blocks it though and shoves Orton in to the ropes. Orton bounces right back in to a kick to the gut with Kennedy looking to hit THE MIC CHECK AGAIN!!!. . . . . Orton doesn’t allow it and elbows him in the side of the head to escape again, sending Kennedy round in a spin. As Kennedy then turns back round, Orton leaps up and explodes with the RKO!!!. . . . . The Viper crawls across and turns the lifeless Kennedy over on to his back and hooks the leg for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.

Orton stands back up to heat from the crowd with “Voices” playing, drowning most of the boos out. He gets his arm raised while looking very sadistic, and he then looks down at the motionless Kennedy.

***Later that night

A serious Randy Orton is being interviewed by Todd Grisham.

Randy Orton: I will take back the WWE Championship. . . THERE IS NOTHING OR NO ONE WHO’S GONNA STOP ME WALKING OUT O’ HERE T’NIGHT AS THE WWE CHAMPION.

***Even later that night

Evolution vs. The Corporation

Show’s not impressed though and as he stands back up, the complacency is gone. He’s found his mean streak and taunts The Game, urging him to get up. Show raises his hand up in the air, signalling for the CHOKESLAM!!!. . . . . Slowly but surely Triple H finds a way back up, but as he gets up, Show grabs him by the throat again and lifts him up in to the air. He keeps him there for a couple of seconds, and The Game starts to wriggle about and then manages to jump down to his feet, landing close to the ropes. Batista walks across the apron and taps him on the back for a blind tag, and it’s acknowledged by the referee. Batista steps inside, but The Game doesn’t notice and goes right back to the stunned Big Show, kicks him in the gut and CONNECTS WITH THE PEDIGREE!!!. . . . .

The crowd explodes, but as Triple H turns Show on to his back, Batista steps in and drops down to make the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No, Triple H pulls Batista up to his feet. The bemused Triple H asks Batista what he’s doing, and The Animal tries to explain and motions to him that he made the tag. The Game angrily shakes his head and shoves his team-mate in the chest in front of the confused fans. Flair then gets in the ring as Batista steps forward and shoves Triple H to the amusement of JBL. With Evolution arguing, Show crawls towards his corner as Flair tries to cool things down with Show then tagging in Kozlov. The big Russian hit-man walks towards the bickering trio and knocks Batista down to his knees with a double axe-handle.

Triple H then hammers away at him and sends him down to the mat with a fierce right hand. That angers JBL, and he decides to get involved. He climbs in the ring and runs right at The Game, but Triple H sees him coming and kicks him in the gut, then grabs him by the tights and turns round to toss him over the top rope to the floor below. Triple H stares down at JBL as Kozlov & Batista make their way back up behind him. Flair tries to warn them as Triple H turns round and sees Kozlov run at Batista, but The Animal steps to the side as Kozlov runs through and clotheslines Triple H over the top rope and to the outside. Kozlov turns round frantically and runs at The Animal, right in to a SPINEBUSTER!!!. . . . .

The fans are on their feet as Batista stands back up, but Show is in the ring and runs at Flair, knocking him down with a clothesline. Batista gets up in time to turn back in to the ropes and run back at Show to take him down with a SPEAR!!!. . . . . The fans are going nuts, and as Batista stands back up, Kozlov struggles to his feet in front of him. Everyone else is down and out, and Batista takes full advantage by pulling Kozlov in to his body before lifting him up above his head and sending him crashing down to the mat with a huge BATISTA BOMB!!!. . . . . The fans are all on their feet as Batista crawls forward and makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.

“Line in the Sand” blasts out to a massive pop. Batista stands up and gets his arm raised by the referee, and is then joined by Flair as he gets up. The Nature Boy hugs Batista as Triple H gets up on the outside and sees his two team-mates celebrating. JBL looks furious as he sits up, and The Game doesn’t look too happy either as he slides back in the ring. Flair & Batista pull away from the hug and see The Game standing there staring at them. The Nature Boy smiles widely at him and walks over to hug Triple H, but The Game just stares right over his shoulder at Batista. The Animal stares back at him with Flair then pulling back and grabbing both men by the arm, then raises both of them in to the air.


***Later on that night

All three members of Evolution are stood in the production area with Batista psyching himself up for the big match coming up next. Ric Flair & Triple H are stood at the side of him with The Game looking very envious while Flair is almost beaming.

Ric Flair: I know it came out of the blue Dave, but this is what it’s all about. You’ve got a chance t’ be the man right here right now, and big man, I know y’can do it. Make me proud.

Flair hugs Batista for a couple of seconds and pats his back as they pull away.

Batista: Thanks Ric, I won’t let y’down.

Flair smiles as he turns round to face Triple H, who stares directly at Batista with a look that could kill.

Ric Flair: What the hell’s the matter with you? The least y’could do is be supportive.

The Game slowly turns his head towards Flair and gives him a similar look before turning back to Batista, still scowling.

Triple H: Good luck.

After that ungracious message of support, he shrugs his way past The Animal and out of the shot, leaving Flair shaking his head in anger, but Batista doesn’t look bothered.

Ric Flair: I can’t believe him. . .

Batista: . . . Seriously, it’s not a problem. I said after t’night we were through anyway. He can do whatever he wants and so can I, starting right now.

Ric Flair: Well, he might not be behind y’t’night, but I sure as hell I am.


WWE Championship
Batista vs. Kane (c) vs. Randy Orton

He then whips The Animal in to the ropes, but as the big man comes back off the ropes, he takes the champion down with a DIVING SHOULDER TACKLE!!. . . . . The crowd cheer again as they both pick themselves up, and as Kane walks towards him, Batista leans forward and lifts him off his feet to send his back forcefully in to the mat with a SPINEBUSTER!!. . . . . That gets the crowd going, and Batista then lifts his thumbs up again, bringing an incredibly worried Bearer up on to the apron. Batista walks towards him, but Flair has it covered.

He walks round and pulls him down, then lays him out with a right hand to another huge pop. Batista smiles down at his mentor before turning round and walking over to Kane. The Big Red Machine tries to get on to one knee, and The Animal gives him a helping hand. He drags him in to his body, setting him up for the BATISTA BOMB!!!. . . . . He gets Kane up in the air and nails it. The champion is helpless, Orton is only starting to come round by the ropes and the crowd are on their feet as Batista crawls forward and makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3!. . . . . It’s over despite a despairing lunge from Orton. We have a new WWE Champion!

“I Walk Alone” blasts out to a deafening cheer inside the Joe Louis Arena. Batista leans back on his knees looking absolutely overwhelmed, nearly shedding a tear as Flair walks round to collect the WWE title belt. An extremely angry Orton sits up and stares across at Flair, who then climbs in to the ring and hands the title over to the new WWE Champion. The Animal stands up and raises it in to the air while getting his arm raised aloft by both the ref and Flair. Batista then hugs Flair before walking in to the corner and climbing up to the second rope to pose with the title, sending the Detroit crowd nuts. The huge smile on Batista’s face is in great contrast to the bitter look on Orton’s. The Legend Killer stands up and stares across at Batista for several seconds before stepping through the ropes with disgust, leaving Batista & Flair all alone. The Animal then steps down and walks across to hug an elated Flair one more time as the show then comes to a close.


***Raw, June 30th 2008

Batista & Ric Flair
walked through the back and into their locker room to be greeted by Triple H. There was a lot of tension in the air as no one knew what to say. Batista & Flair then walked in and let the door shut with Triple H then saying that he had something he needed to say. He apologised to them for being so caught up in his problems with Vince & The Corporation and admitted that everything got way out of control. He appeared to be very humble and then said that he was very grateful to them for helping him out when they didn’t need to and that everything worked out because they won the war last night. He went on to say that if he couldn’t be the WWE Champion, he was just glad one of them is and that he was happy for Batista before apologising again and offering his hand out to him. The Animal smiled and shook, delighting Flair. The Nature Boy said he was glad they cleared the air and now everything was sorted between them.

***Later that night

WWE Championship
Batista (c) vs. Kane

The Animal looked to finish the match off, signalling for the Batista Bomb. The crowd went nuts while Bearer panicked in a big way. He jumped up to the apron, catching the referee’s attention, and Batista’s. The WWE Champion walked over to him with the referee, and as he did so, Randy Orton jumped the barricade and slid in to the ring behind them both. The ref told Batista he would deal with Bearer, and as The Animal turned round, Orton caught him with the RKO to a ton of heat in the area. Ric Flair & Triple H then ran down to the ring and scared off Orton, who left through the crowd as Bearer stepped down off the apron. Both Batista & Kane made their way back up with Kane trying for a Chokeslam and hitting it, but the defending champion kicked out at two with Evolution cheering him on from the outside. Kane then got back up and signalled for the Tombstone Piledriver, but as he tried to scoop his opponent up, Batista slipped down his back and shoved him in to the ropes. As Kane came back, Batista levelled him with another Spinebuster. The Animal didn’t waste any time in dragging him right back up to plant him with the Batista Bomb. The crowd went nuts as Triple H then blocked off Bearer, allowing Batista to make the cover and win the match to retain his title and send Kane & Bearer out of the WWE forever.

Triple H went round and collected the world title as Flair got in the ring to congratulate Batista. Bearer started crying on the outside, watching on helplessly as Flair and the referee raised Batista’s arms in the air. All smiles, The Game climbed in to the ring with Batista’s belt. He walked towards them with Evolution all smiles. The Game then was about to pass him the title but pulled it back. Batista & Flair looked confused before Triple H then drilled Batista right in the face with the belt. The music stopped and the crowd booed as Triple H stared down intensely at Batista, leaving Flair shell shocked. The Game then looked up and dropped the title on the champion with Flair begging for answers, and he got one in the shape of a Pedigree. The fans booed like crazy as Triple H got back up and looked down at them both with no remorse whatsoever.


***Raw, July 7th 2008

“The Game”
blasts out to a ton of heat from the crowd as a very intense Triple H walks in to the arena, interrupting a ticked off Eric Bischoff. Wearing jeans, a T-shirt and a leather jacket, The Game walks down to the ring with Bischoff not looking very happy at all to see him as Triple H then collects a microphone.

Triple H: All I have one is very simple request. Well it’s more of a demand. . . I want Batista, and I want him right here t’night.

Eric Bischoff: Do you not remember what you did last week?. . . See Hun’er, turning on your friends and telling the world that you’re a selfish, two-faced individual at the same time isn’t something that I can punish you for, but you put your hands on a referee, one of my referees. . . That’s the reason why you won’t be facing Batista t’night or any other night in the near future, because as of right now you’re suspended indefinitely.

Eric Bischoff: Now if you don’t mind, I’d like t’ have some security officers come down here and escort this man off my show.

A group of six security workers walk down the ramp and in to the ring, and then grab hold of The Game.

Triple H: Bischoff, rest assured you’re gonna be very, very sorry. Mark my words.

Eric Bischoff: Get him out o’ here.

***Later that night

Triple H
is shown being escorted in to the parking lot and to his car by security. He opens his car door and they back away, but as Triple H turns his head, he looks surprised. The camera pans to the right to show a pissed Ric Flair storming towards him with a calmer Batista following behind.

Ric Flair: YOU NO GOOD SON OF A BITCH!

Security quickly block Flair off, but he tries to get past them.

Ric Flair: WHY’D YOU DO IT HUH? COME ON, DON’T HIDE BEHIND THEM YOU COWARD.

Triple H stares right at Flair, who is still being held back by security with Batista standing behind him.

Batista: Forget it Ric, he’s not worth it.

Flair backs down, as do security.

Ric Flair: You’re right Dave. I don’t know what I was thinkin’. He’s nothin’.

***Later that night
Non-Title Match
Batista vs. Randy Orton

As the champion got to his feet, Orton went for the RKO, but Batista pushed him back in to the ropes and kicked him in the gut as he came back. He then pulled him in to place and planted him with the Batista Bomb. Just as he was about to go for the cover, Triple H made his way down the ramp with a sledgehammer in hand. Flair was standing with his back to the ramp, totally unaware of The Game approaching behind him. The fans tried to warn him, and so did Batista as he turned round in a horror. Flair didn’t know what was going on as he turned right round in to a shot to the head with the sledgehammer. Triple H then slid inside the ring as Batista got to his feet. Batista went right for him but ran right in to a shot of The Game’s trusted ally, causing the referee to call for the bell. He too then fell foul of sledgy as The Game looked down at the carnage.

The camera cuts to the back and there’s a lot of noise with several officials & backstage workers rallying round and calling for help. We then see one of the referees turn round and drop to his knees, and we’re greeted by the sight of Eric Bischoff laid out face down across the floor. EMT’s rush over to him while the camera switches back to the arena with the footage in the back being shown on the tron for the fans to see, as well as a smirking Triple H.


***Raw, July 14th 2008

Linda McMahon's
music plays and she walks down to the ring surrounded by security. The fans cheer and she gives them a brief smile, clearly meaning business here tonight. She collects a microphone and stands in the middle of the ring to address the Richmond crowd while the security cover all sides of the ring.

Linda McMahon: As I'm sure you're all aware, the Head of Authority for Monday Night Raw, Eric Bischoff was taken to a local medical facility last week following an incident backstage. . . It's very clear that a replacement is required in order to calm the storm and keep things ticking over as we head in to SummerSlam. . . So, ladies and gentleman, I introduce to you, the acting General Manager of Raw, Tazz.

"13" hits and a very happy Tazz walks down to the ring, dressed in a suit and shakes Linda's hand as he steps inside the squared circle.

Tazz: It's pretty obvious that we've got a lot o' egos an' attitude runnin' riot on Raw, but I gotta tell ya, that ends right here right now. I sure as hell ain't gonna let anyone get away with doin' whatever the hell they want. 'cause as of right now, things are gonna change. . .

"King of Kings" blasts out & an intense Triple H walks down the ramp to a ton of heat. He gets to the ring and stops to stare at the security workers before climbing up the steps and entering the ring. Security turn round and face the ring, keeping their eyes firmly on The King of Kings. Tazz doesn't look best pleased as he watches Triple H walk past him to get a microphone of his own and then join him in the middle of the ring.

Triple H: With Bischoff out of the way, it's down t' you to give me what I want. . . I want Batista one on one for the World Heavyweight Championship.

Tazz: There's no way in hell I'm gonna give you a shot at the WWE Championship. . . See I ain't a believer in people sittin' at home as a punishment. People like you need t' face the consequences of your actions. . . One of the first decisions I had t' make after re-instatin' ya was what t' do about SummerSlam an' the World Heavyweight Championship. We're little over a month away an' I'm gonna put on one hell of a show of each one o' these fans. For that t' happen, I need a huge, an' I mean a huge main event, an' y'can bet your ass that's what you're gonna see. . . I got t' thinkin' 'bout what just what I was gonna do, an' then it hit me. What better way t' headline SummerSlam than bring back Eric Bischoff's own creation. . . the Elimination Chamber.

*Massive Pop*

Tazz:
You an' Batista might wanna tear each other apart, but he ain't the only one who wants t' get his hands on ya. That's why you've been re-instated, an' the man you'll be facin' at SummerSlam might not be Batista, but he's also a member of Evolution. . . Y'might not be facin' Batista, but Hun'er, the man you'll be facin' at SummerSlam is ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair, an' if y'don't like it, that's tough.

Triple H is pissed and stares right at Tazz, and the new boss of Raw walks past him without a care in the world.

***Later that night

Randy Orton
is in Tazz’s office.

Randy Orton: I take care of business in the ring. I kicked Mister Kennedy out of the WWE by beating him in the ring because that's what I do. That's what I would've done last week against Batista if it wasn't for Triple H sticking his big nose in my business. I came that close to beating Batista, and that's why I have t' be in the Elimination Chamber at SummerSlam.

Tazz: I wanna make this Elimination Chamber the best yet, an' to do that, I need the best six men possible in that match. An' as far as I'm concerned, you fall in t' that category, even though I don't exactly like how y'do take care of things all the time, you're one of the best guys here on Raw an' I want you t' be one of the six men in that match.

Randy Orton: I should think so.

***Later on that night
Batista & Ric Flair vs. The Big Show & JBL

Vince & Shane were looking worried on the outside as the WWE Champion stood back up to a big pop. He walked over to the ropes and shook them in a frenzy before walking back towards Show. As he lifted his thumbs up and brought them down, JBL raced back in to the ring. Batista countered with a spinning powerslam to take Layfield down. Just as he got back up though, Triple H charged down the ramp and pulled an unsuspecting Flair off the apron. He nailed him with a couple of hard right hands before whipping him in to the ring steps. The referee saw it and called for the bell, awarding the match in favour of Batista & Flair by disqualification. The Game stomped all over Flair on the outside with Batista then walking over to try and stop it.

The Big Show was back up though and pulled him back, then turned him round in to a chokeslam, much to the satisfaction of Vince & Shane. JBL returned to his feet with the same look of satisfaction as his father & brother. He then told Show to pick Batista up, and the big man did just that. JBL then gave him some instructions before turning back to run the ropes, then came flying back at Batista with Show letting him go in enough time for JBL to hit the Clothesline From Hell. Boos rang out as Triple H continued his attack on Flair too, pulling him up and whipping him in to the ringpost. Vince & Shane got in the ring with Vince holding the WWE Championship. All four members of The Corporation looked down and laughed at Batista while Triple H looked on with Vince then dropping the belt on the fallen champion as the show came to a close.


***Raw, July 21st 2008

“No Chance in Hell”
plays as The Corporation, JBL, The Big Show, Vince & Shane McMahon walk down the ramp with every single one of them looking very pleased with themselves after their exploits last week. The smiles remain firmly on their faces as they take it in turns to climb up the steps and enter the ring with Vince going over to collect a microphone from Lilian Garcia. He smiles through the fans excessive boos, as do his smug troops standing behind him.

Vince McMahon: Where Bischoff failed t' do his job properly, in one night, our new general manager or whatever title my loving wife gives the job was objective. . . See when carefully choosing which five men deserve a place inside the elimination chamber, he rightfully chose t' give two of those spots to the most deserving men here on Raw. . . The Big Show and my son, JBL. . . And if you weren't watching last week, one person who can testify to that is the current WWE Champion, Dave Batista. . . last week when they destroyed Batista, just like they will at SummerSlam. . . T'gether we proved that we're unstoppable. We proved that it doesn't matter who you are because no one, and I mean no one can and will stop us from. . .

“My Time Is Now” blasts out to a huge pop for the first time in almost three months as a pumped John Cena charges out to the stage. The fans look stunned and the kids go nuts as Cena goes over to each side of the stage before walking down the ramp. He enjoys the ovation, looking delighted to be back, but The Corporation certainly don't seem to share his emotion. Cena gets in the ring and poses for the fans, then goes to get a microphone.

John Cena: Guys, what's up with the long faces?. . . Take a look around, make no mistake about it, the E Center's jumpin'. EV'RY SINGLE PERSON'S ON THEIR FEET 'CAUSE JOHN CENA IS OFFICIALLY BACK ON MONDAY NIGHT RAW!. . . Your eyes aren't playin' tricks on ya, but I got a question that can't wait another second for an answer. . . Did someone say somethin' about the elimination chamber?

The Big Show: Since we're in such a good mood t'night, how about you do the sensible thing, turn round, find yourself a partner and come back when you're not outnumbered?

John Cena: Outnumbered?. . . Do you know who you're talkin' to?. . . I've stared adversity in the face week in week out and come through it each an' ev'ry time. . . THAT'S WHY I PUT MY BODY THROUGH ALL KINDS O' HELL AN' DO CRAZY SHIT LIKE THIS.

Cena drops the microphone and throws a couple of hard rights at the stunned Big Show, sending him round in a daze. JBL goes at Cena as Vince & Shane panic and leave the ring, but Cena blocks a right hand and drills him with a shot of his own, sending him down to the mat. An irate Big Show charges at Cena, but Cena ducks under an oustretched arm as Show hits the ropes. They both turn round to face each other with Cena clotheslining him over the top rope to the floor. Vince & Shane are pissed as Cena turns round and lifts JBL on to his shoulders for the FU. Layfield wriggles free and down Cena's back, then escapes through the ropes behind him, joining his father and half brother on the outside as Show stands up too. The hot Cena urges them to get in the ring but they just stare at him with utter contempt. He then sees one of the microphones on the mat and picks it up.

John Cena: Hey, about that challenge for later on. . . You want me t' go find someone t' help kick all your asses?. . . YOU GOT IT. YOU'RE ON!

“My Time Is Now” plays again to a huge pop as Cena drops the stick and stares at the livid Corporation members.

***Later that night
Ric Flair vs. Randy Orton

Orton calmly stood up and never took his eyes off of The Nature Boy, getting ready to strike and coolly anticipating his opponent getting back to his feet. Batista looked on nervously as Flair turned round in a daze and in to an RKO attempt, but he dodged it and pushed Orton forward in to the ropes. Orton was stunned and turned round to run at Flair right away, and The Nature Boy went for a wild clothesline. Orton ducked it though and turned round immediately, gaining the edge on Flair to spin him round and plant him with the RKO to pick up the victory.

“Voices” played to heat from the crowd as the menacing Orton stood up to get his arm raised by the referee. Batista looked disappointed on the outside, but as he then saw Orton back up in to the corner looking as if he was getting ready for a punt, he slid in to the ring and blocked him off. He taunted Orton to go for him, but The Legend Killer did the right thing and coolly stepped through the ropes before hitting the floor. He back tracked up the ramp, not taking his eyes off of Batista and The Animal stared right back at him defiantly with the WWE Championship raised high up in the air as Flair came to behind him.

***Later on that night

“My Time is Now”
blasts out to another huge pop with the roof almost coming off as John Cena runs out to the stage with a microphone in his hand. He poses for the fans again before settling down at the top of the stage, and his music cuts with The Corporation fiercely glaring up at him.

John Cena: Those jackasses you see before you in the ring right now wanted me t' go find myself a partner, so that's exactly what I did. . . I told y'all earlier I've got a big heart, but hell I think this guy's got a bigger heart than anyone, an' just like me, he's stared adveristy right in the face an' come out the other side. . . So, t' those of you that ain't on their feet already. . . stand up an' give it up for REY MYSTERIOOO!

“Booyaka 619” hits to a thunderous pop as Rey Mysterio walks out to the stage with Cena nodding his head in his approval. His pyro goes off too, but The Corporation seem to be amused by Cena's choice of partner as they then walk down the ramp and to the ring.

John Cena & Rey Mysterio vs. The Big Show & John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield
An incredibly focused JBL was sizing Cena up for a Clothesline From Hell, and with Mysterio willing him on, Cena was able to duck underneath the outstretched arm. JBL panicked and put on the brakes, and as both men turned to face each other, Cena lifted him up off for the FU to a massive pop. Before he could hit it, Show ran in at him again, but Cena dropped JBL and ducked a clothesline as Show then ran through in to the ropes with Cena then charging at him and clotheslining him over the top. The crowd were going nuts as he then turned his attention back to JBL. Layfield caught him off guard and ran at him with Cena reacting quickly to duck a big boot. Cena then lifted him up off his feet and on to his shoulders, and this time he hit the FU then covered JBL to pick up the victory for him & Rey, much to the anger of Vince & Shane on the outside.

Rey joined Cena in the ring and had a short guy hug after getting their arms raised, further frustrating the McMahon's. The fans carried on cheering as Cena's music was playing when Tazz then came out to the stage clapping with a microphone in his possession. The music then cut with Tazz getting the full attention of everyone in the arena except Show & JBL, who were still on the mat.

Tazz: Now I spoke t' John an' Rey earlier t'night, so they already know what I'm out here t' say. . . Right now, we've only got four of the six men who are gonna be in that match for the WWE Championship. . . They are, Batista, Randy Orton, Big Show, JBL, but that's about t' change 'cause the last two are standin' in that ring right now. . . That's right folks. The last two men t' join the elimination chamber are Rey Mysterio an' JOHN CENAA!

Vince & Shane don't look best pleased, and neither do Show & JBL as they come round. “My Time Is Now” plays again with Cena & Rey all smiles.


***Raw, July 28th 2008

Randy Orton
barges in to Batista & Ric Flair’s locker room.

Batista: What the hell do you want?

Randy Orton: What I want is the WWE Championship, and I will be the WWE Champion when I win the elimination chamber at SummerSlam. . . I told you I'd beat Ric last week and I did just that, and I saw the fear in your eyes like I do right now. I'm the one man you didn't want in the elimination chamber and rightly so. You have ev'ry reason to be worried Dave and I'm gonna show you why when I beat John Cena t'night. . . And from what I hear, you're the special referee. I just hope for your own sake Dave that you call it down for the line, or I won't be responsible for my actions.

***Later that night
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

Batista did as he said and called the match down the line, not that Orton saw it that way and questioned a couple of calls he believed were on the slow side. . . Cena got right back up and watched on intently as Orton slowly got back up and turned right in to an F U. He didn't escape this time and got slammed right down on his back, and Cena opted not to go for the cover and decided to lock in the STFU to a huge pop. Orton held on as much as he could with agony written all over his face and refused to tap with Batista getting right up close and asking him whether he wanted to give it up. The Legend Killer held firm despite the best efforts of the red faced Cena who was pulling away at his face, and somehow Orton managed to drag himself to the ropes.

Cena accepted it but he was still fired up as he got to his feet and watched on as Orton used the ropes to try and get up. We then saw JBL & The Big Show walk down to the ring to a barrage of heat, catching the attention of both Cena & Batista. They both walked over to the ropes with Batista telling them to stay back. Show & JBL stood at the bottom of the ramp and had their eyes set on the both of them, and with Cena's attention on them, Orton took full advantage. He walked up behind Cena and spun him round in to an RKO. The crowd mostly booed as Orton then made the cover and urged Batista to count, which he did despite not looking too happy about it, counting to three to give Orton a big victory heading in to SummerSlam.

The Animal grudgingly called for the bell and collected his WWE title as Orton stood up straight away and leaned back in to the ropes, feeling the effects of the match with “Voices” blasting out to boos from the crowd. Batista then left the ring and walked between JBL & Show after a short exchange of nervous looks as Cena tried to sit up while holding his head, still a bit frosty from the RKO. The Corporation members then walked towards the ring and climbed up the steps, and Orton took the hint to take his leave as Show then stepped over the top rope and JBL entered the old fashioned way. Cena was still coming round as they then walked menacingly towards him with Orton looking on with a sick smirk on his face before turning round and leaving Cena to face the music.

Cena made it up to his knees with Show shifting behind him so that there was one man either side of him. Cena realised he was in trouble and started throwing wild punches at JBL, and then Show. He managed to put JBL down but Show was too much for him, and the big man pounded him down to the mat. JBL took off his jacket and threw it to the mat as Cena tried to get up again. The crowd then cheered as they saw Rey Mysterio charging down the ramp. He slid in to the ring at speed to try and help out his buddy, but JBL & Show eventually put him down too after a strong fight from Rey Rey. That gave Cena the chance to fight back, and he took JBL down with a right hand after spinning him round to catch him off guard.

He then ducked a right hand from Show and tried to lift him up for an F U, but fatigue showed and he couldn’t get him up. Show then grabbed him by the throat and delivered a chokeslam, sending him crashing in to the mat. As Rey then got up, Show sized him up, but Batista came charging back down the ramp to a big pop. He slid in the ring, dropped his title belt and took JBL down with a spear. Show panicked and let go of Mysterio, then ran in to a spinebuster from the WWE Champion. Both JBL & Show then rolled to the ropes as a fired up Batista took it turns looking at both of them. They didn’t look happy as Rey stood up alongside Batista, and the Mexican held on to his stomach after the beating he’d taken. The Animal then reached down to pick up his title and put it on his shoulder while staring at the pissed off JBL & Show.


***Raw, August 4th 2008
John Cena vs. John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield

Cena turned round in to a kick to the gut from Layfield, who then followed up with a release powerbomb. The crowd’s nervousness was obvious as JBL then crawled forward and hooked the leg for a cover, but Cena got his shoulder up at two to the relief of the crowd and the shock of JBL. He was furious and yelled at the referee as Cena began to sit up, and as he tried to get to his feet, the livid JBL turned his attention back to his opponent instead of the referee, but as he hit the ropes and went back at Cena, he ran straight in to a kick to the gut. Cena bent down and lifted JBL off his feet and this time connected with the FU to pick up the victory.

***Later that night

John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield
storms back in to his & The Corporation’s dressing room/office with a face like thunder. The Big Show, Vince & Shane McMahon are all sat down on a leather sofa, and they’re all low key. Show is sitting on the arm of the sofa as JBL slams the door and stares directly at him, walking closer to him as he opens his mouth.

JBL: WHERE THE HELL WERE YOU HUH?. . . Don’t tell me you just sat here and. . .

Show stands up and takes JBL by surprise, and it looks like he’s surprised at just how big Show is.

The Big Show: Did you not hear what Tazz said earlier? He made it pretty clear what’d happen if I, or anyone for that matter got involved in your match. . . We’d be out of the elimination chamber. . .

JBL: HEY, WE’RE SUPPOSED T’ BE A TEAM AND THAT COMES FIRST. THAT’S WHY WE BROUGHT YOU BACK. IF YOU’VE GOT A PROBLEM WITH THAT. . .

Vince doesn’t look too happy at seeing them go at it and stands up.

Vince McMahon: SHUT UP BOTH OF YOU.

That gets the attention of them and they turn to face an irate Mr. McMahon.

Vince McMahon: John, you heard what Tazz said. In no circumstances could Show, Shane or I get involved t’night. We simply can’t afford t’ lose our places in the elimination chamber as that’s the only way we’re going to get our hands on the WWE Championship. . . For now, we have to do whatever Tazz says or you can both forget about winning the WWE Championship, then at SummerSlam in less than two weeks, you will work t’gether t’ get the job done. Is that clear?

Vince stares at both of them, but it doesn’t appear all is well between JBL & Show.

***Later on that night

Batista
is in the backstage area drinking a bottle of water, and John Cena walks up to him. Boos & cheers both break out in the arena.

John Cena: Hey, look who we have here, the WWE Champion, The Animal. How’s it goin’ Dave?

Batista takes the bottle from his mouth and is far from replicating Cena’s enthusiasm, surprising Cena slightly.

John Cena: It’s been a long time in the makin’ but it’s finally gonna happen. . . John Cena, Batista, two of the biggest names in the business. . . well, and another four, goin’ at it on the big stage, the hottest night of the summer for the hottest prize in the business. IT’S GONNA BE OFF THE SCALE.

Batista: Yeah.

Still showing no real enthusiasm, Batista’s mood does confuse Cena a lot more this time, and The Animal takes another gulp from his bottle.

John Cena: Hey big man, what’s up wit’ you? This ain’t the Dave Batista we all know an’ love.

Batista: I’ll be fine John when SummerSlam’s out of the way, I’ve won the elimination chamber and Ric’s beaten Triple H.

John Cena: Whoa, that’s easier said than done champ, not that I need t’ tell you right since you’re the champ an’ all.

Batista: Yeah, I am the champ an’ I will be after SummerSlam. . . Now I got a match I gotta go get ready for. I’ll see y’round.

Cena looks genuinely stunned to see the intense Batista walk away and out of the shot.

***Later that night
Non-Title Match
Batista vs. Randy Orton

A struggle ensued and Batista let go of Orton, and as Orton got up, Batista went for a clothesline, but Orton ducked it and the referee took the brunt of it instead. He fell to the mat in a heap as Batista looked on in shock, and as he turned round, Orton ducked to his knees and low blowed him to an absolute barrage of boos from the crowd. With both the WWE Champion and the referee on the mat, The Viper left the ring and took a chair from ringside before slipping back inside as Batista struggled back up, totally unaware of the trouble he was in.

The fans again tried to warn him of the danger as Orton banged the chair in to the canvas, and as Batista turned to face him, he swung the chair at him, but The Animal ducked it, leaving Orton shell shocked. They both turned round in a hurry with Batista reacting first to stomp Orton in the gut before then stealing the chair from Orton. He then lifted the chair up high above his head and brought it down to smash it in to The Viper’s skull to a huge pop. Unfortunately for the WWE Champion, the referee was sitting up and saw him use the chair, leaving him no choice but to disqualify him and award Orton the win.

Boos rang out and The Animal was furious. He threw the chair down and snapped, then dragged the helpless Orton up and set him up for the Batista Bomb, and this time he hit it, lifting The Viper up high above his head before sending him crashing down in to the canvas to a big pop. “I Walk Alone” then blasted out as Batista stood back up and stared down at Orton, who was lying motionless at his feet as the show came to an end with Batista clearly fired up going in to SummerSlam.


***Raw, August 11th 2008 (Last Monday)
Batista, John Cena & Rey Mysterio vs. The Big Show, John “Bradshaw” Layfield & Randy Orton

When the WWE Champion turned his attention back towards The Big Show, JBL was in the ring. With Show getting up behind Batista, JBL ran right at The Animal and went for the Clothesline from Hell, and he hit it when Batista ducked and Show took the brunt of it, falling on to one knee and looking very groggy as Batista then clotheslined JBL over the top and down to the floor. Cena then tapped Batista’s shoulder and stormed the ring, confusing The Animal who could only watch on as Cena pulled Show up on to his shoulders for the FU, demonstrating his strength before sending the big man crashing down to the mat and then covering him to pick up the win for his team.

“My Time is Now” hit mainly to a pop with Rey racing in to the ring to hug Cena with Batista staring right at Cena, still not happy seemingly regarding the blind tag. Vince & Shane looked on in disgust as the referee raised Cena & Rey’s arms with Cena then asking Batista to join them, which he did despite not looking all that comfortable about it. He continued to stare at Cena with both Cena & Rey confused by his reaction. Orton sat up looking very pissed on the outside, as did JBL, and the referee then passed Batista the WWE Championship that he took and held on to tight while still looking very uneasy around Cena.

__________


{Cut to the Arena}


*Match #6*



WWE Championship
Elimination Chamber Match
Batista (c) vs. John Cena vs. Rey Mysterio vs. Randy Orton
vs. The Big Show vs. John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield w/Vince & Shane McMahon

3/4 Minutes In:
Rey Mysterio & JBL, the two men who started the match make their way back up to their feet. Layfield fiercely swings his right hand at Rey, but Mysterio ducks and mistakenly tries for an irish whip. JBL reverses it easily and whips Rey in to the ropes, but he springboards and goes for a CROSS BODY!. . . . . Layfield catches him and holds on to him, then tosses him back with a FALL AWAY SLAM!!. . . . . Rey hits the mat and the very determined Texan gets back up and watches Rey trying to get back up.

He gets ready to strike, swinging his right arm around in the air as the oblivious Mexican picks himself back up and then turns round. JBL charges at him and looks to level him with the CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL!!!. . . . . Mysterio ducks his head as JBL puts the brakes on with both men turning round. They go to face to face and Rey cracks him with a LEG FEED ENZUIGIRI!!. . . . . The fans are cheering as the hopeful Rey instantly scurries across and hooks JBL’s legs. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! JBL gets his shoulder up and out go the main lights as the spotlight switches between the four pods. Mysterio stands up and is keen to find out who’ll be joining him & JBL, and to his horror, the spotlight stops on The Big Show’s pod. The Mexican’s jaw drops as the mean looking seven foot plus giant anxiously waits for the referee to open the sliding door, and JBL sits up smirking as he sees his Corporation team-mate step out of the pod. Rey’s panicking, much to the amusement of Vince & Shane McMahon who are watching on from outside the chamber. Show steps over the ropes with JBL standing, causing Rey a great deal of concern.

He doesn’t know what to do and charges at Show, and the world’s largest athlete just shoves his hand in Rey’s face, sending him down to the mat. He’s right back up though, but Show grabs his face by both cheeks and head butts him straight back down again, showing him who’s boss. Rey gets to his knees with JBL giving Show some instructions, and the big man responds by pulling Rey up as JBL takes a few steps back. Show then fires Mysterio at his partner, who lifts his boot up and drives it right down the Mexican’s throat. Rey falls to the mat and all four members of The Corporation are looking on with big smiles on their faces.

Batista & Cena show a bit of concern for Mysterio as they watch from their pods, and JBL takes charge now, reaching down to drag Rey back up, pulling him right under his arm. Rey’s in no position to fight back, and JBL lifts him vertically up in to the air and falls back to the mat for a suplex. JBL holds on and twists his hips, standing up to deliver another suplex, and then another to hit the THREE AMIGO’S!!. . . . . Boos ring out as JBL stands up smirking at the sight of the Mexican in pain on the mat. Show cracks a wry smile too, but JBL’s not done. He taunts Rey as he attempts to get back up, standing right in front of him, staring down at him and taunting him.

Show looks on smiling as JBL sets Rey’s head between his legs for the LAST CALL!!!. . . . . The big Texan grabs him around his waist and lifts him up above his head, but Rey fights back and hammers away at JBL with his right hand, sending him staggering forward in to the ropes. Rey then reaches his hands down to grab the top rope and sends JBL over the ropes to the chamber floor with HEAD SCISSORS!!. . . . . The fans cheer as Rey’s feet hit the mat again, standing on the apron as an angry Big Show runs right at him. Mysterio reacts quickly and throws both his legs through the ropes in to Show’s midsection.

It sends him staggering away from the ropes clutching his chest, and as he turns round, Rey springboards and goes for a dropkick, but Show just throws both his hands up and blocks it with Rey crash landing on the canvas. The momentum grinds to a halt as Show takes a couple of steps back, then shifts forward again and drops his tree trunk like leg down across Rey’s chest. JBL makes his way back up on the outside as Show stands up and grabs Rey by the throat in the process, then brings him back up with him. The big man takes a second to look at the worried Cena before lifting Rey up off the mat and planting him with a CHOKESLAM!!!. . . . . Rey’s back crashes in to the pads and he’s not moving as Show drops to his knees and covers him. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

JBL kneels down and pulls Show up to stop the count. Show’s confused and questions his team-mate, who gives him more instructions, and even Vince & Shane don’t know what’s going on. They turn to each other as Show holds his hands up and backs away from the squirming Mysterio, and JBL does the same. Mysterio gets back up a couple of feet away from the ropes, and a fired up Layfield charges right at him, going for the CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL!!!. . . . . Rey sees him coming and steps back, then drop toe holds JBL on to the middle rope.

The fans cheer like mad as Rey gets back with Show panicking and running at Rey, who catches him with a drop toe hold too, and Show drops on to the second rope alongside JBL. The fans rise to their feet and Cena watches on smiling, even urging Rey on as the Mexican stands back up looking somewhat shocked. He looks at his two opponents, both in trouble with Vince & Shane looking very concerned outside the chamber. Rey then dials up and turns back in to the ropes, charges back across the ring and swings through the ropes, connecting with a 619!!!. . . . .

Both men fall back to the mat, and Show tries to get back up as Rey steadies himself on the apron. He keenly watches Show getting up, and the Master of the 619 springboards for the WEST COAST POP!!!. . . . . Show catches him though and holds him on his shoulders, back tracks to the corner and throws Rey crashing in to the pads with a REVERSE THROWN POWER BOMB!!!. . . . . Mysterio’s upper body is thrown in to the pads at force, and Show turns round to see the extent of the damage. He shows no sympathy whatsoever for Rey and drags him away from the ropes, then hooks his leg for a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

No! Rey kicks out and Show’s not happy. JBL gets back up too and walks across the ring with a real mean look on his face. He slaps Show on the shoulder and gives him some more instructions, gesturing with his right hand, seemingly calling for him to drill Rey. JBL ushers Show back and drags the struggling and battered Rey back up to his feet. He holds on to him as Show gets ready to knock him out. The fans are concerned, and so are Cena & Batista.

JBL gets him up and Show’s composure disappears as he runs at Rey and swings his huge closed fist, but Rey ducks and Show drills JBL with the KNOCK OUT PUNCH!!!. . . . . The fans cheer and the lights go out as the spotlight flashes between the pods with Show in shock, as are Vince & Shane. The looming arrival of the next entrant takes Show’s attention away as the light stops on Cena’s pod, and he urges the ref to open the door, and he does. As the lights come back on with Show staring at Cena, Rey shimmies round on the mat and covers JBL. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!

JBL has been eliminated!

Show turns round in shock as Cena races through the ropes. Show holds his head in his hands, but Cena takes him by surprise him, spinning him round and lifting him off the mat and on to his shoulders. The fans are going nuts as Cena then sends him crashing down to the mat with the F U!!!. . . . . Cena drops to the mat and covers the big man with the fans counting along with the referee as he counts the giant’s shoulders. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!

The Big Show has been eliminated!

Vince & Shane watch on with disgust, shaking their heads as Cena stands back up with Mysterio still a little groggy as he sits up and sees Cena. Show comes round, as does JBL. They sit up and look towards each other with Layfield steaming and Show looking very uneasy. Cena seems to be getting a kick out of it as both men get to their feet, and so does Rey, using the ropes and leaning against them as the livid JBL walks towards Show and gets right in his face. The giant tries to explain and apologise, but JBL doesn’t want to hear it. The referee steps between them and tries to break them up and get them to leave the chamber, but they’re not budging and JBL shoves Show.

The big man thinks about it and lets it go, looking to the side as JBL then shoves him again, and now Show reacts, snapping and shoving JBL down on to his back and on to the mat. The fans cheer and Show stares down at him, not sure how to react. He then looks at both Shane & Vince who are fuming outside the steel structure. He then turns round and leaves the chamber, stomping up the apron with an irate JBL staring right through him. Show doesn’t look back as JBL then gets up and leaves the ring too as he’s instructed to by the referee.

Vince & Shane, just as angry as him, walk round to meet him and they make their way up the ramp, much to the amusement of Cena. He & Rey then walk in to the centre of the ring, and Cena extends his hand to his friend, and Rey happily shakes it. They get in to a collar and elbow tie up with Cena overpowering the Mexican, shoving him down to the mat. Mysterio gets back up to his feet and throws a right at Cena, then starts kicking him wildly to the legs and body. Cena can’t defend himself but is able to reverse an irish whip from Rey and turns back to run the ropes too, comes back and connects with a FLYING SHOULDER BLOCK!. . . . .

Some fans boo and some cheer as both men return to their feet, and Cena’s fired up for this now as he turns in to the ropes again and sends Rey down with another FLYING SHOULDER BLOCK!. . . . . The atmosphere’s getting heavy now as the two friends pick themselves back up with Cena running behind Rey to hit the ropes, runs back from behind and takes him down with the THROWBACK!. . . . . Cena’s on fire as the Mexican struggles back up to a vertical base and gets pulled under Cena’s arm, and Cena hits the JUMPING FISHERMAN SUPLEX!!. . . . . Cena holds on to Rey’s leg for a cover, and the ref hurries across and drops to the mat to make a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! Rey kicks out, and Cena’s in no mood to mess around. He stands right back up and brings Rey with him, lifting him on to his shoulder and sending him back down to the canvas courtesy of a SPIN-OUT POWER BOMB!!. . . . . The match is all Cena as he looks once again to cover his friend and eliminate him from the match, hooking his leg for another pin attempt. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! Mysterio again kicks out, proving his resilience. He’s not able to get up through and stays down as Cena stands up and signals for the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE!!. . . . . There’s a ton of boos mixed in to the cheers as Cena steps back in to the ropes, comes back and looks to connect, but Mysterio rolls to the side as Cena hits the mat to a big pop. They both make their way back up with Cena the first one up, and Rey ducks a wild clothesline before connecting with TILT-A-WHIRL HEAD SCISSORS!!. . . . . The crowd is buzzing now as Rey makes his way back up to his feet with Cena now looking a little stunned. Rey steps back towards the ropes as Cena shifts forward towards him and walks right in to a drop toe hold that sends him on to the middle rope and in to a world of trouble.

Mysterio stands up to a huge roar and dials up, then hits the ropes and comes flying back across the ring for the 619!!!. . . . . No! Cena pulls his head back to dodge it. He stands up as Rey steadies himself on the apron, and then kicks the Mexican in the gut. Rey’s the one in danger now as he gets thrown up in to the air and down chest first on to the steel chamber floor from a FRONT RELEASE SUPLEX BY CENA!!!. . . . . Rey’s hurting, writhing around on the steel with Cena even looking somewhat sorry for putting him through the pain. Cena then steps through the ropes, followed by the referee and almost regretfully rolls Rey on to his back and makes a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

No! Mysterio gets his shoulder up, but it’s clear he’s hurting now. Cena looks in to the crowd as he stands up and then takes a look down at his friend in pain, trying to get one to his knees. He seems torn and shakes his head, then reaches down and drags Rey up, scooping him up on to his shoulders for the F U!!!. . . . . It’s deafening inside the HP Pavilion, and it’s mostly boos as Cena looks to finish Rey off in grand fashion, but once again Rey fights for his life. He wriggles around on Cena’s shoulder and slips to safety, surprising his friend who gets shoved forward against one of the pods face first. The pod remains intact, and Rey sneaks up behind him to roll him up in to a pinning combination. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

Cena powers out, kicking Rey off his legs. Rey hurries up to his feet and takes the fight to Cena, climbing up to the top rope and then on to the pod as Cena makes his way back up to his feet. He turns round and Mysterio jumps off, landing on top of Cena for a SEATED SENTON!!. . . . . Cena falls back to the floor with Rey on top of him, staying there for a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! Again Cena kicks out, and Rey’s fired up now. He stands up and pulls the squirming Cena up, then tosses him back through the ropes in to the ring. Cena’s looking slightly shaky as he gets back up with Rey standing on the apron holding on to the top rope, getting ready to strike. Cena turns round and Rey springboards looking for the WEST COAST POP!!!. . . . . Cena counters and catches him on his shoulders for the F U!!!. . . . . The fans boo as Cena gets ready to finish him off, but he can’t. Rey slips down to safety again and rolls Cena up. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

Cena kicks out with force again, and both men rush back up to their feet. Rey turns back to run the ropes, comes flying back at Cena but right in to a drop toe hold and the STFU!!!. . . . . Again there’s a mixed reaction as Cena puts the pressure on Rey, who screams “NO” at the ref, holding firm as the lights go out and the spotlight flashes between the pods containing Batista & Randy Orton. It stops and here comes The Viper! The door is slid open and he wastes no time in hitting the ring with Rey still fighting the deadly submission hold.

Cena holds firm but Orton enters the ring by the ropes in front of him and he gets a stomp to the back of head, and the hold is broken. Orton then walks past both men, setting up camp in the opposite corner as Cena rolls towards the apron with Rey squirming around. Orton locks his eyes on Rey, watching his every move, and as Mysterio tries to get his knees, The Viper charges out of his corner and swipes his boot in to Rey’s skull for the PUNT!!!. . . . . Rey’s lifeless and Orton turns round in a flash, drops to his knees and hooks both legs for the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES! Rey Mysterio has been eliminated!

Orton slowly stands back up and sets his sights on the dazed Cena as he struggles up to his knees with the referee helping the groggy Rey back up and escorting him out of the chamber. The Viper coolly walks across the mat towards Cena, and as Cena gets to his feet, Orton leaps up looking for the RKO!!!. . . . . Cena fights back and shoves him forward in to the ropes. Orton holds on to them and Cena runs right at him, clotheslining him over the top, and Orton lands on the steel floor. The Legend Killer sits up holding his back and stands back up, clearly hurting as Cena steps through the ropes.

He grabs Orton’s head from behind, surprising and worrying him as Cena runs with him in to the steel, driving his head in to it. Orton’s looking troubled now and Cena isn’t easing up. He turns round holding Orton’s wrist and tries to toss him in to the pod, but Orton stuns everyone by reversing it and sending Cena in to the pod, shattering it with Cena falling through it to a mixed reception from the crowd. Orton looks relieved, breathing heavily and then cracks a smile before walking over to the fallen Cena. He drags him out of the wreckage and makes a cover, hooking his leg as the referee makes the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Cena lives to fight another day, kicking out, but it doesn’t go down well with Orton. He stands up and stares down at his opponent who’s in a bad way. He opens his eyes and doesn’t seem to know where he is, and Orton backs up slowly, keeping his eyes locked on him at all times. The sadistic face of The Viper tells the story as he watches Cena claw his way up to his knees, and Orton runs right at him, swinging his boot at him for another PUNT TO THE HEAD!!!. . . . .

Cena dodges the bullet, pulling his head back and shooting up to his feet. Orton doesn’t have time to round either as Cena lifts him off his feet and quickly plants him with the SPIN-OUT POWER BOMB ON THE STEEL FLOOR!!!. . . . . Orton’s in agony, letting out a big scream as Cena shuffles forward right away to cover him. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO! Orton’s the one who kicks out this time, leaving Cena slightly frustrated. He takes it fairly well as he leans back on to his knees and takes in a big deep breath. He then returns to his feet as Orton, clearly suffering tries to make a move. It’s hurting him and Cena gives him a helping hand, dragging him up and tossing him back in to the ring through the ropes. Orton tries to crawl up to his knees on the mat and Cena follows him across the ring, watching him try to get up. Batista’s smirking in his pod as he watches Orton get up, and Cena pounces right away, spinning him round and lifting him on to his shoulders for the F U!!!. . . . .

There are cheers & boos coming from the stands with Orton at Cena’s mercy, but Orton’s not giving up. He elbows Cena in the side of the head and slips down his back, and as Cena turns round, Orton plants him with the RKO!!!. . . . . Cena’s out of it, but Orton’s still hurting and can’t take advantage. The Viper slowly comes to life and crawls across to cover Cena, stretching his arm out and placing it on Cena’s chest with the referee hurrying down to his knees to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Cena gets his shoulder up to the relief of some of the crowd and the disappointment of some others. Orton lifts his head up and looks shocked, then the anger sets in. He makes his way back up looking furious at Cena, who slowly comes round. The Legend Killer can’t take his eyes off of Cena, and he has a face like thunder as he backs up in to the corner, stalking him for the PUNT AGAIN!!!. . . . . Orton’s almost foaming at the mouth as Cena gets to his knees, and Orton snaps, racing out of the corner looking to take his opponent’s head off. Cena stands up, counters with a drop toe hold and locks in the STFU!!!. . . . .

The crowd are on fire as normal, some cheering and some booing again as Orton screams out in pain with Cena applying the pressure to his fellow challenger, wrenching away at his face. The Legend Killer is in serious trouble and you can see it on his face as he tries desperately to hold on, lifting his right arm up in the air. Both men are giving it everything. Orton to hang on in the match while Cena does everything he can to make him tap, but Orton holds firm with Batista watching on keenly from his pod. Orton pulls himself towards the ropes, fighting it to his very best as the lights go out and the spotlights shines down on the pod containing the WWE Champion.

The Animal himself is released and as the lights come back on, we see Orton’s hand on the bottom rope. Cena looks shocked and stands back up, turns round and sees Batista steps through the ropes to a big pop. The showdown is on as Batista & Cena walk in to the centre of the ring, going face to face with the fans going nuts. Cena throws the first punch and the champion blocks it, then fires at him with some rights of his own, putting Cena on the back foot. The Animal knocks him down and then eagerly watches him stand back up, and Cena gets sent right back down with a clothesline. Again Cena picks himself back up, and Batista levels him with another clothesline.

The Animal helps him up from his knees and scoop slams him down to the canvas to a pop from the California faithful. The resilient yet weary Cena makes his way back up with the intense Batista plotting his next attack, turning back in to the ropes and coming back at Cena, taking him down with a DIVING SHOULDER TACKLE!. . . . . The fans are loving this as Batista makes his way back up, bringing Cena with him and scooping him on to his shoulder. The WWE Champion walks in to the corner and turns round, then charges across the ring and drives Cena in to the mat with a RUNNING POWER SLAM!!. . . . . Batista hooks Cena’s legs and makes a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . No!

Cena kicks out, leaving Batista a little frustrated. He shrugs it off quickly and stands up, but he doesn’t see Orton approaching behind him. The Viper clubs him across the back and grabs his head, then pulls him in to an INVERTED HEADLOCK BACK BREAKER!!. . . . . Orton goes to make a cover but sees Cena trying to sit up.

The Legend Killer stands up and goes after him, stomping him in the back of head. He then grabs Cena’s legs and tosses them on to the second rope before going back to the head. He pulls Cena up off the mat by his head, then drives it right down in to the canvas with a ROPE HUNG SPIKE DDT!!!. . . . . Cena’s not moving an inch as Orton coolly pushes him over on to his back and makes a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

No! Cena gets his shoulder up, leaving Orton pissed. He’s in the zone right now and doesn’t bother standing up, instead stalks Cena for the RKO!!!. . . . . He lies across the mat, pounding the canvas with both hands, but Batista is right back up behind him. He pulls his former Evolution team-mate up to his feet and whips him in to the ropes, then plants Orton as he comes back with a SPINE BUSTER!!. . . . . It’s deafening inside the HP Pavilion as Batista gets back up, walks over to the ropes and shakes them in a frenzy to a huge roar from the sell out crowd.

He walks back to the squirming Orton and raises both his arms up in the air, lifting his thumbs up and then bringing them down, getting the crowd going even more. The Animal reaches down and pulls Orton in to position for the BATISTA BOMB!!!. . . . . Orton’s title chances are in jeopardy as we speak, but he suddenly pulls his head back and sweeps Batista’s legs, then flips forward holding the legs for a JACKNIFE COVER!!! . . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

Batista kicks out, pushing Orton back to the mat. They both hurry back up to their feet and Orton nails him with a standing dropkick that sends Batista down to the mat. Orton then steps back in to the ropes and comes back, jumping up and dropping his knee, but Batista rolls to the side and Orton’s knee hits the mat. They both make their way back up with the WWE Champion turning to the side and hitting the ropes, charges back and rips Orton in half with a hellacious SPEAR!!!. . . . . Orton’s hurting and Batista smells victory, shifting across the mat to cover him. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Orton just gets his shoulder up and Batista leans back on his knees looking a bit despondent. As he makes his way back up, so does Cena and he looks in a bad way. Batista walks over to him, drags him away from the ropes and whips him in to the corner, and Cena hits the pads with force. Batista then charges in at him and in to a raised boot from Cena that sends him staggering away from the corner.

Cena pulls himself up to the second rope and jumps off as Batista turns round, taking him down with a DIVING SHOULDER BLOCK!. . . . . The Animal’s not down for long and gets up alongside Cena, and it’s the challenger who gets the momentum, stomping the champion in the gut and hitting his version of a FISHERMAN SUPLEX!!. . . . . Cena holds on to Batista’s legs as they hit the mat for the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . No!

Batista kicks out, but this time he stays down as Cena makes his way back up. As he gets to his feet, he gets a surprise as Orton spins him round out of nowhere and plants him with the RKO!!!. . . . . Cena hits the mat and his eyes are shut. He’s completely out of it as Orton scurries on his knees and hooks both legs for the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES!!!

John Cena has been eliminated!

Orton leans back with a smug smile on his face with the majority of the crowd cheering with some boos mixed in. Batista sits up and sees Cena coming round with Orton smirking as he stands up. Cena is then helped out of the chamber as Orton turns his head towards The Animal. The WWE Champion stands back up and Orton runs right at him and Batista ducks. He spins the stunned Orton round and fires him in to the ropes.

The Legend Killer holds on to the top rope, not going down well with Batista who charges at him, and Orton turns to the side, lifting his elbow up in to the side of the champ’s head, sending him staggering away from the ropes. Orton takes a mini breather and walks out behind him, pulls Batista’s head under his arm and takes him down with the OVERDRIVE!!. . . . . Batista’s head hits the mat and Orton turns him on to his back right away to make a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . NO!

Batista gets the shoulder up, setting off a cheer in the crowd. Orton stands back up calmly, staring down at the squirming Animal and retreats in to his corner, getting ready to take the champ’s head off with the PUNT!!!. . . . . The fans are worrying, booing as Batista turns on to his knees, unaware of what’s waiting for him as Orton explodes out of the corner, racing towards him and swinging his boot at him. The Animal pulls his head back as Orton puts the brakes on millimetres away from the turnbuckle pads. Batista rises up and the pissed Orton turns round, runs at him and in to a SPINNING SIDE SLAM!!. . . . .

Orton’s stirring as Batista stands back up and pulls him in to place for the BATISTA BOMB!!!. . . . . Orton can’t block it this time as The Animal lifts him above his head to a big pop, but Orton jumps down and plants Orton with an RKO OUT OF NOWHERE!!!. . . . . Both champion & challenger are side by side on the mat as Orton slowly shimmies round and climbs on top of Batista, hooks the leg and makes a cover with the ref rushing down to his knees to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Batista just about manages to get his shoulder up to the relief of the joyous San Jose fans. Orton looks up in shock at the referee, and he looks like he’s going to lose it as the ref tells him it was two. The Viper snaps and stands up, bringing Batista up with him, but The Animal pushes him in to the ropes, and as Orton comes back, he falls victim to a SPINE BUSTER!!

Cheers ring round the arena as the intense champion makes his way back up and drags Orton with him, setting him up for the BATISTA BOMB AGAIN!!!. . . . . The WWE Champion doesn’t waste a second as he grabs Orton around the waist, lifts him up off the mat and high above his head, then sends him crashing down to the mat. Orton lies there lifeless, and Batista crawls across on his knees, hooks the leg and makes the cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES, 3! DING DING DING!!!


Winner: By pinfall, and still the WWE Champion, Batista @ 32:03.

Aftermath: “I Walk Alone” blasts out to a huge cheer and the HP Pavilion explodes as a relieved and sore Batista stands up to get his arm raised by the referee. He takes a breather as the ref goes to collect his world title, and The Animal smiles as he’s then passed the gold. Batista is beaming with relief and satisfaction as he throws the title up in the air with the fans still cheering. He walks in to the corner and poses with the title on the second rope, smiling at the ovation he’s getting from the California crowd.


{Cut Backstage}


Todd Grisham
is standing by at the interview set.

Todd Grisham: Joining me at this time is the man who is looking to end the career of Ric Flair here t’night. Please welcome ‘The King of Kings’ Triple H.

A chorus of boos filter through from the arena as the camera zooms out to reveal the very intense Triple H standing next to Grisham.

Todd Grisham: Like I just mentioned, you will be facing ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair later this evening in what will now be a no holds barred match where you have nothing to lose, and he has it all to lose. . .

Triple H: . . . Just so we’re clear Todd, it’s not a case of Ric having it all to lose. . . his career was effectively ended when he chose to put his career at stake. He made it official when he signed his career away on Raw Monday night, but f’ some reason he still thinks he has a chance. You saw him try to get one over on me, and you also saw me put him in his place. I let him know exactly where he stands. He doesn’t have a hope in hell of beating me t’night. His career is over and he knows it. . . He can think whatever he likes, but from the moment that bell rings, he’ll soon realise he’s made the single biggest mistake of his career and his life, because I guarantee I will finish him once and for all, and there’s not a damn thing he or anyone can do about it.

Todd Grisham: We received a shock earlier this week when we found out that the match was changed to a no holds barred match. That effectively means there’ll be no rules or restrictions on what both of you can do to each other, but it also opens up the possibility that Batista, or anyone else for that matter can get involved. What are your thoughts on the change Tazz has made?

Triple H: I don’t care one bit what Tazz says or does. If I hadn’t pedigreed him last week, I wouldn’t have the chance to do to Ric what I can now. And quite frankly Todd, I don’t think Batista’s in any kind of shape to get involved t’night. If he is stupid enough to get in my way, which believe me he is, he’ll regret it. In fact, I’d like to congratulate Dave on holding on to the W W E title because now it means that when I’m through beating Ric within an inch of his life, I can set about what I would have had Ric not stuck his nose in, and that’s go right after both Dave and the W W E Championship. . . Ric’s no threat to me, but Dave you and I both know I’m a threat t’ you. We both know had it been you an’ me for the title t’night, you wouldn’t be walking out with it like you are doing. And Dave, I hope you’ll be watching so you can see what’s gonna happen t’ you, but more importantly, so you can see what I do t’ Ric when I end his career. An’ mark my words, t’night will be the last time you ever see The Nature Boy in the squared circle when he gets carried out on a stretcher completely lifeless.

The King of Kings glares in to the camera looking very menacing, and you know he means every word.


{Cut Backstage}

A very focused Shawn Michaels is walking through the hallway for his World Heavyweight Championship match coming up in just a few moments.

__________


*Video Recap*


***Judgment Day 2008, Sunday 25th May
Fatal Fourway Match for the Money in the Bank Briefcase
Matt Hardy vs. Elijah Burke vs. M.V.P vs. CM Punk

MVP & Matt are the first two men to stir, and as MVP gets to his feet, he looks down in complete anger at Matt for costing him the chance to win moments ago and reaches down to grab him, but Matt catches him off guard by pulling him in to a SMALL PACKAGE. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kick out! MVP just escapes there, and as he and Matt get back up to their feet reasonably quickly, Matt ducks a wild right hand from Mr. Money in the Bank and whips him hard in to the corner with MVP’s back crashing in to the pads. He then staggers out of the corner in obvious pain with Matt taking advantage, kicking him in the stomach and planting him with the TWIST OF FATE. . . . . For the second time in the match, Matt connects with his finisher on MVP, but before he can go for the cover, Punk has come back to life, sneaking his way up behind Matt. Punk takes him by surprise as he then pulls him up to his feet and connects with the GTS. . . . . Matt’s head just got driven in to Punk’s knee, and The Straight Edge Superstar goes for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.

“This Fire Burns” hits to heat from the crowd as the smug CM Punk stands back up and gets his arm raised by the referee. He then turns to see the Money in the Bank briefcase resting on the apron and walks over to collect his new possession. He bends down and picks it up, staring at it with a smug smile on his face for several seconds before lifting it up in to the air to a ton of heat from the Kentucky crowd.

***Later that night. . .
World Heavyweight Championship
Shawn Michaels (c) vs. The Undertaker

Michaels explodes out of the corner and looks to drill him with the SWEET CHIN MUSIC. . . . . But no! Taker grabs Shawn’s foot. He quickly drops it and spins Michaels on a 360 spin, then whips him in to the ropes. Taker too runs back in to the ropes, and as they meet in the middle of the ring, The Undertaker turns the tide with an earth shattering RUNNING DDT. . . . . Michaels hits the mat head first and is flat on his back, motionless as Taker once again shifts across to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! There’s still fight left in the World Champion, and even Taker is shocked as he pulls himself back up to his knees, staring down at Michaels, who rolls on to his side once again with his eyes slightly glazed over, not seeming to know where he is.

Taker stands back up and lifts his right arm in to the air, preparing for a CHOKESLAM. . . . . It takes what looks like an age for Shawn to pick himself back up, looking unsteady as he stands back up and turns round to face The Undertaker. The phenom grabs him around the throat, but as he lifts him up off his feet, Michaels manages to escape and jump back down, shocking the dead man. Taker throws a wild right at him, but Shawn ducks the blow with Taker falling forward slightly. As the dead man turns back round, Michaels reacts by leaning back and connecting with a SUPER KICK. . . . . A huge cheer rings round the arena as Michaels just collapses on top of Taker and hooks a leg. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3. He did it! Michaels overcame The Undertaker and retained the World Heavyweight Championship.

HBK then walks across to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, forgetting about his condition as he rests the title over his shoulder to take the time to applaud the fans. He spends a good ten seconds there, but we then hear some anxiousness, and Shawn’s not sure what’s going on. He turns round and sees CM Punk in the ring behind him, holding the Money in the Bank briefcase. As Shawn steps off the ropes, Punk steps forward and smashes him in the face with the briefcase. Michaels’ music stops and there’s a ton of heat ringing around the Rupp Arena as Punk stares down with the same sadistic grin he displayed earlier on. He ten drops the case and drags Michaels back up, lifts him on to his shoulder and nails him with the GO TO SLEEP. . . . . The heat is deafening as Punk just smirks at the sight of Michaels completely out of it on the mat. The ref races back down the ramp and desperately checks on Michaels, but Punk pulls him up after picking his briefcase and seemingly tells him he’s cashing it in. The ref shakes his head, not happy at all, but Punk shoves him to the ropes where the ref calls Justin Roberts over and whispers in his ear.

Justin Roberts: Ladies and gentleman, CM Punk is cashing in the Money in the Bank contract as of this moment.

The bell rings and Punk walks back over to the squirming Michaels, picking up and lifting him on to his shoulders to plant him with another GTS. . . . . Michaels looks completely helpless as Punk drops to his knees and makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.

“This Fire Burns” blasts out to a barrage of heat from the fans. Punk stands up with a huge grin on his face as he is passed the World Heavyweight Championship. He demands the referee raise his hand, and he does so before leaving the ring looking disgusted. Punk shrugs it off and smiles through it as he walks over to the ropes and lifts his first major World Championship in to the air with the fans continuing to boo. He turns round and continues to smile as he looks down at Michaels with no remorse whatsoever before leaving the ring and resting the title on his shoulder as he walks up the ramp. As he gets to the top, he takes the belt off his shoulder and raises it up in to the air once again with a massive grin still written all over his face as the show comes to a close.


***Smackdown, May 30th 2008

“This Fire Burns”
hits with the new World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk walking out to the stage with a big smile on his face and the title belt resting on his shoulder.

Justin Roberts: Ladies and gentleman, please welcome, the new World Heavyweight Champion. . . CM Punk.

The new champ, wearing a black T-shirt climbs through the ropes and walks over to collect the microphone from Justin Roberts, who then leaves the ring, leaving Punk in there to soak up all the heat.

CM Punk: I can’t say I’m all that surprised that this is the reaction I get, and I can’t really say that I care as no one is gonna ruin this moment for me, CM Punk, your new World Heavyweight Champion. . . I was walking through the back when some guy stopped to congratulate me and asked me who I thought would win between Shawn and The Undertaker later on, and that’s when it hit me. That’s when I knew what I had to do for me and for this show. You won’t agree but I did the right thing for this show as this business needs young, determined, ruthless, talented superstars in the position I am to represent it, not someone who’s ten years past their best and doesn’t know when to call it a day. I represent what this business should be. Shawn Michaels’ time in the sun has come to an end, and mine is only just beginning. Whatever the circumstances and however sorry you feel for Shawn, The Undertaker or even MVP for that matter, what’s done is done, there’s nothing anyone can do, I’m the champion and everyone has to deal with it.

Punk grins before turning round to walk towards the ropes when all of a sudden, “Sexy Boy” blasts out to a huge pop with some typical Canadian boos directed at Shawn Michaels as he walks out to the stage. Punk turns round to see the very intense sight of the former World Heavyweight Champion. Punk looks surprised to see him as he slowly walks down the ramp, still feeling the effects of his match with The Undertaker from Judgment Day. Punk isn’t worried as he turns back with Michaels picking a conveniently placed microphone up off the steel steps.

Shawn Michaels: . . . I beat The Undertaker in the middle of this ring all by myself, something not many people can say, including yourself. And you know what you did then Punk? You took that away from me by disregarding any kind of appreciation or respect you have for me or this business, but at least there’s a happy ending for you. But if I were you, I wouldn’t get used to having that title for long. See you might’ve had the right to cash that contract in any time you wanted, but I too have a little clause of my own that states I get a rematch for the title and the chance to get my hands dirty with the man that stole it away from me. And from where I’m standin’, that appears to be you. . .So guess what? I feel like cashing that in right here tonight. . . I might be beat up from Judgment Day, but I’m not waitin’ around Punk. I’m takin’ back my title tonight, whatever it takes.

***Later that night
World Heavyweight Championship
Shawn Michaels vs. CM Punk (c)

Punk lifts Michaels up on to his shoulder for the GO TO SLEEP. . . . . Boos ring out, but Michaels wriggles around and down off the shoulders of the worried looking Punk, and as the champ turns round, Michaels connects out of nowhere and hits the SUPER KICK. . . . . Both men collapse to the canvas, and after several seconds, Michaels crawls over and places his arm on to the chest of Punk. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Punk just and only just manages to lift his shoulder up off the mat and prevent a 3 count. Boos echo around the arena, and as Michaels then lifts his head up, it’s clear he doesn’t totally know where he is. He then slowly stands back up, as does Punk, but once again, Michaels retreats in to the corner where he again tunes up the band.

As Punk picks himself back up with the ref checking he’s okay, Michaels rushes out of the corner, looking to hit another a SUPER KICK. . . . . But Punk drops to his knees, pushes the ref to the side and low blows Michaels with the ref oblivious to the low blow. HBK slowly drops to his knees in front of Punk, but the Straight Edge Superstar doesn’t waste a second as he stands back up and brings Michaels with him as he once again lifts him on to his shoulders, and this time he connects with the GTS. . . . . The fans boo the World Champion as they are forced to watch him hook the leg of The Heartbreak Kid as the referee makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.

“This Fire Burns” blasts out through the speakers as CM Punk stands up to get his arm raised with a smug grin on his face. He then demands the referee gets him his world title, and he does just that with Punk snatching it away from him as he brings it over. He stands over Michaels’ and lifts the title belt up in to the air with the fans continuing to boo. He then walks over to the ropes and throws the title up in to the air once again as Michaels rolls on to his side behind him, starting to come round. As Punk turns back round, he sees The Heartbreak Kid squirming and decides to drop his belt to the mat, just by the apron. He then slips through the ropes to the outside and grabs a steel chair, then slides back in, stalking Michaels as he tries to get to his knees. With Michaels able to get to his knees, Punk stands behind him, ready to explode with the chair in hand, but with the crowd trying warn him, the dazed former World Champion struggles to his feet and turns round in to a vicious steel chair shot with the thud echoing around the arena.


***The 2008 Great American Bash, July 13th

Moments before the World Heavyweight Championship scramble match with Tazz at the top of the stage.

Tazz: Two nights back on Smackdown, CM Punk was the special guest referee in the main event an’ I think it’s fair t’ say that he played a big part in how that panned out. I can’t afford things t’ get out o’ hand t’night, an’ that’s why I’ve appointed a special guest referee once again who’s promised he’s the man for the job an’ guarantees me he’ll make sure no one crosses the line. . . So without a further ado, I give t’ you, your special guest referee for our main event World Championship match, “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels.

The stunned crowd all rise to their feet as Shawn Michaels makes his way out to the stage and shakes hands with Tazz. The GM walks to the back as the all smiling Heartbreak Kid poses for the fans on the stage wearing jeans and a referee’s shirt with his pyro exciting the crowd even more. He then struts down the ramp and slaps hands with the fans on the way before getting in the ring and posing for them once again.

World Heavyweight Championship
Scramble Match
The Undertaker vs. Christian vs. CM Punk (c) vs. Edge vs. Chris Jericho
Guest Referee – Shawn Michaels

Needless to say, CM Punk was less than happy at seeing Shawn Michaels as the guest referee. Before the match started the World Champion seemed to question him as to why he was there, with Michaels playing the innocent.

Punk runs past Edge in to the ropes and connects with a SPRINGBOARD ENZUIGIRI!!. . . . . Taker's right on him though as he gets up, and the dead man whips him in to the corner. He follows in at Punk and hits a hard clothesline. He then whips him in to the opposite corner and connects with another clothesline. Taker then back tracks and turns round to run the ropes as Punk staggers out of the corner and to the side. Taker comes charging back at him, but Punk reacts so quickly to lean back and pull down the top rope to send the dead man over the top and down to the floor.

Punk pulls himself back up looking very tired and relieved as he sees Taker on the floor. Jericho slowly makes his way up behind and then runs at him, but again Punk reacts quickly to toss him over the top too. As he turns round, Edge lifts his head up off the mat and Punk takes a look round to see he has a free run. He paces across to drag Edge back up, lifts him up on to his shoulder and then brings Edge's head crashing down on to his knee with the GO TO SLEEP!!!. . . . . Punk hit it and he hooks both legs as Michaels drops to his knees and counts Edge's shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3!

Punk's the champion, for now! Can he hold on for less than a minute? He stands up and throws both his arms up in the air with massive relief. He then walks over to the ropes and leans on them to take a breather. He then starts to panic as he sees The Undertaker standing back up. Punk then steps back from the ropes as Taker climbs back up on to the apron to a big pop with Punk looking very worried. The dead man climbs over the ropes with Punk back tracking.

Taker then charges at him and Punk ducks under a clothesline. As they both turn round, Punk goes for an enzuigiri but Taker ducks his head. Punk then stands back up and Taker scoops him on to his shoulder. The crowd go nuts as Taker tries to set him up for the TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!. . . . . Punk fights it though and pulls himself back down to the mat, then clubs Taker across the back to send him down to his knees. He then stomps all over him as the clock counts down and brings the match to a close.

“This Fire Burns” blasts out to heat from the New York crowd with Punk kneeling down and smiling like never before with his arms raised high in the air. Michaels goes to collect the World Championship belt for the man who took it from him at Judgment Day as Punk's relief turns to blatant smugness. He laughs as HBK then passes him the world title and barely lifts his arm up in victory, then pulls away and walks in to the corner with Michaels looking at him with disgust as the World Champion poses with the title on the second rope. As he then steps down and turns round, Michaels catches him off guard with some Sweet Chin Music. The crowd goes nuts as Michaels stares down intensely at the motionless World Champion.


***Smackdown, 18th July 2008

Dressed in jeans, a shirt and a sand coloured jacket, Shawn Michaels walks down the ramp looking fairly serious and picks a microphone up off the steps before entering the ring.

Shawn Michaels: I put my heart and my soul in to being the World Champion for what I thought would be the last time. . . At this stage of my career, I know these chances don't come around all that often, and you've gotta take themwhile you can. . . What I didn't count on was that they could be stolen away from you in the blink of eye, and just seconds after one of the biggest victories I've ever had. I lost the World Heavyweight Championship an' I wanted it back. I cashed in my rematch the first chance I got, but I know now I should've taken my time. Yet again I let my heart rule my head and I went right after it. I lost track of what was important. I forgot about the world title and thought only about revenge, making up for what happened at Judgment Day. And not for the first time, it came back to bite me in the ass. I went in guns blazin' and tossed away my rematch just like that, but standing here t'night, hand on heart, I can say it was the best thing that could've happened. Even though I got yet another concussion, I had the chance to take some time out and spend some time with my family. I had the chance to think about what was best for Shawn Michaels, my family and my career. I know I'm not gonna be around forever and this might just be my last run.

“This Fire Burns” hits and CM Punk, the World Heavyweight Champion walks out to the stage with a microphone in hand.

CM Punk: You really are somethin' Shawn. You come out here an' make out I'm the bad guy for stealin' your moment as well as the world title at Judgment Day when we all know I did nothing wrong. I did what I was perfectly entitled t' do, something you can't say for what you did at The Great American Bash. . . I overcome odds of four to one against me to retain my World Heavyweight Championship, proving each and ev'ry doubter wrong, but could I enjoy it? No, no I couldn't. . . See Shawn, at Judgment Day what I did was all above board, but what you did was nothing short of spiteful. . . That's why your faith is nothing but a cover for your own ego and selfishness. You turned up at The Bash with the intention of screwing me over like you did Bret all those years ago. . .

Tazz: At SummerSlam Punk, you'll be defendin' the world title against just one man. . . That one man being Shawn Michaels.

***Later that night
Shawn Michaels & Michael Shane vs. CM Punk & Johnny Jeter

The number one contender for the world title went to the top and hit a diving elbow drop to a mainly positive response from the crowd before tuning up the band. Punk then tried to stop him in his tracks, but Michaels saw him coming and gave him a possible sneak preview of SummerSlam with some Sweet Chin Music. Punk went under the bottom rope as Jeter got up and then ran at Michaels who ducked a clothesline and exploded with another super kick to pick up the victory for him & his cousin. Shane & Michaels celebrated with a quick hug before getting their arms raised. They posed in opposite corners as the livid Punk sat up on the outside and glared up at Michaels with The Heartbreak Kid staring back down at him.


***Smackdown, July 25th 2008

The serious looking CM Punk is standing in the middle of the ring wearing black jeans and a white T-shirt with a CM Punk logo on it. Of course, the world title is resting proudly on his shoulder.

CM Punk: Ever since I became the World Heavyweight Champion, ev'ryone with an over inflated sense of their opinion has underestimated me, told me I don't deserve this honour I've worked so hard for. However at The Great American Bash, I proved each and ev'ry one of you wrong. . . CM Punk is the Shawn Michaels of this era. I'm the one person who'll tell it like it is, and when I step inside this ring, I perform on a level that far greater than any of my peers. . . I have that same passion the old Shawn Michaels had, and there's only Shawn Michaels that could come back from the serious back injury that almost ended his career. Only The Heartbreak Kid could find the courage and the desire to look past the fact he might never walk again to get back in this ring and do what he did best, until now. . . I too have that desire, that passion for this business, only as we speak, my desire is greater than Shawn Michaels'. And as I did at The Great American Bash, I will prove it to the world and to Shawn Michaels in what will be the greatest victory of my career.

*Heat*

CM Punk:
Once my arm is raised and I'm announced as the winner, no one will question my ability, my passion or my right to be world champion. . . This is without a shadow of a doubt the biggest match of my entire career, and I have it all to both win and lose, but I promise you that I will beat Shawn Michaels and earn your respect whether you like it or not.

*Heat*

Punk doesn't let the boos bother him one bit. He lifts the microphone back up to his mouth.

CM Punk: . . .

“I THINK I'M CUTE. I KNOW I'M SEXY. . . I'VE GOT THE LOOKS THAT DRIVES THE GIRLS WILD”

Shawn Michaels
walks down the ramp to a huge pop looking very composed. Punk remains calm as he watches Michaels climb up the steps, pick up a microphone and join him in the ring. His music cuts as he stands just a couple of feet away from the World Heavyweight Champion.

Shawn Michaels: When you said that no one else would've even thought about gettin' back in this ring after breaking their back, you're right. I came back for a lot of reasons, none more important than to prove I'd changed, that I wasn't that brash, arrogant, selfish human being anymore. . . That Shawn Michaels is in the past, but the same Shawn Michaels that put on a show like no other lives on my man. That show stopper is alive an' well, an' that's the Shawn Michaels you're gonna meet at SummerSlam. . . You're gonna meet the show stopper, the main event, THE ICON!

*Big Pop*

Shawn Michaels:
You might be the world champion right now Punk, but at SummerSlam you're gonna find out first hand why I'm all those things and more. . . If you manage to beat me, you'll have my respect. But if you're not at your absolute best, The Heartbreak Kid will once again be the World Heavyweight Champion.

Michaels lowers the microphone and stares right at Punk, who stares right back at him. “Sexy Boy” blasts out & Michaels then steps back slowly, not turning his back on Punk for a second as he then steps through the ropes and jumps down to the floor. He then walks up the ramp with his back to Punk, who watches Michaels take every step.


***Smackdown, August 1st 2008
Non-Title Match
Shawn Michaels vs. Edge

The Rated-R Superstar was pissed and stood up in a hurry, then walked over to the ropes, stepped through on to the apron and jumped down to the floor. He walked past the confused announce team & CM Punk to collect a steel chair, clearly fuming as he then slid back in the ring with the chair in hand. The crowd booed and the ref tried to stop Edge as he yelled at Michaels to get up, and he slowly struggled up, but before he could turn round, a huge roar broke out in the stands. Edge looked confused, and as he turned round to see what was going on, he saw his brother, Christian slide in to the ring. The Rated-R Superstar lifted the chair up above his head and ran at him, swinging the chair at Christian’s head, but he ducked it. Both men turned round as quickly as they could, and a seriously pumped up Christian reacted first to kick Edge in the gut and steel the chair. He then swung the chair at Edge and blasted him in the skull, resulting in a deafening thud and a huge pop, but the ref called for the bell, awarding the match to Edge by disqualification.

Tomko grabbed Christian’s arm and told him to step away, and as angry as he looked, he backed down and slowly stepped back towards the apron with Tomko. He & Michaels continued to stare at each other, both men not happy with each other as Edge remained on the mat, and as Christian & Tomko turned round and walked back up the ramp, the camera cut back to the ring. CM Punk was inside and dropped his world title belt on the mat with Michaels oblivious despite the crowds’ attempts to warn him, but he turned round right in to Punk. The World Champion swiftly ducked his head and lifted The Heartbreak Kid on to his shoulders, then sent Michaels’ head crashing in to his knee with the GTS. Michaels hit the deck to a ton of heat with Punk standing above him smirking and admiring his work. He then looked up and smirked for the benefit of the crowd too.


***Smackdown, August 15th 2008 (Two nights ago)

Shawn Michaels
is being interviewed by Maria.

Shawn Michaels: I’m gonna have my hands full at SummerSlam Sunday night. I’m gonna have my hands full but that’s what The Heartbreak Kid thrives on. We’re gonna be fighting it out for the biggest prize in the industry an’ that’s when The Showstopper comes out t’ play. . . On the biggest stage, there’s no one better than Shawn Michaels, an’ CM Punk, this is a stage you’ve not yet reached. This is a stage where I’ve beaten some of the best this company’s ever seen, bigger names than you Punk an’ you’re gonna be added t’ that list when I walk out o’ SummerSlam as one more time, the World Heavyweight Champion.

***Later that night
Shawn Michaels & Matt Sydal vs. CM Punk & Shelton Benjamin

Punk panicked big time and raced in to the ring, running right at Michaels, who emerged out of the corner and connected with a super kick that sent the World Champion under the bottom rope and to the floor. With Benjamin getting back up behind him, Michaels turned round and was whipped hard in to the corner. Benjamin went right after him and went for a Stinger Splash, but Michaels ducked and ran through as The Gold Standard jumped right on to the pads to a big pop. As he then turned round out of the corner all dazed, The Heartbreak Kid leaned back and took his head off with the Sweet Chin Music. The fans were on their feet and Michaels dragged Benjamin to his corner and tagged Sydal. The King of the Ring looked confused and Michaels told him to go up to the top, and he did with the fans going crazy to hit the Shooting Star Press and then cover Shelton to pick up the victory.

“Axeman” blasted out with the fans showing their appreciation for Sydal & Michaels who shared a brief congratulatory guy hug after getting their arms raised. Punk sat up on the outside, and he wasn’t happy. Michaels & Sydal then posed for the jubilant crowd in opposite corners with Sydal especially looking delighted with the victory while Michaels applauded the crowd before looking down in Punk’s direction, who just sat there staring at him with anger. Michaels simply smiled back at him, further angering the World Heavyweight Champion and leaving him with a lot to think about heading in to SummerSlam on Sunday.

__________


{Cut to the Arena}


*Match #7*



World Heavyweight Championship
Shawn Michaels vs. CM Punk (c)

Last 15 Minutes:
The focused World Champion helps the struggling challenger up from his knees and whips him in to the ropes, but he’s in for a shock as The Heartbreak Kid comes running back and jumps up at him, taking him down with a LOU THESZ PRESS!. . . . . Cheers break out as Michaels unloads with a series of right hands to the temple of The Straight-Edge Superstar. Michaels relents and stands back up, starting to feel it as Punk gets back to his feet, stunned by his opponent’s comeback. The Showstopper is right on him and chops him hard across the chest, forcing him back in to the corner and turning Punk’s chest bright red.

He eases off, then grabs Punk by the wrist and goes to whip him in to the opposite corner, but Punk steps out and reverses it, sending Michaels’ back crashing in to the turnbuckle pads. He then staggers out with the World Champion walking across to meet him, and Punk stomps him in the gut, hooks both his arms and causes more damage to Michaels’ back with a DOUBLE UNDER HOOK BACK BREAKER!!. . . . . Michaels is suffering and it’s clear for everyone to see, and Punk looks to take advantage and lean forward, covering his opponent. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

No! The Heartbreak Kid kicks out, slightly frustrating the World Champion. He quickly shakes it off and makes his way back up, then walks over to the apron and steps through the ropes. Michaels is clearly feeling the pain in his back as Punk stands on the apron waiting to strike, holding on to the top rope and keeping his eyes locked in on his opponent. Michaels gets to his feet and turns round, confused as to where his opponent is.

Punk lets him know by spring-boarding and connecting with a clothesline, the AIR PUNK!. . . . . Michaels falls to the mat and lands a couple of feet off centre of the ring. Punk stands back up and pulls him a further couple of feet closer to the corner, then acts quickly, using the ropes to hit a SPLIT-LEG MOONSAULT!. . . . . Michaels is helpless as Punk reaches to the side and hooks his leg to make a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . . No!

The Straight-Edge Superstar is left even more frustrated as Michaels kicks out, and Punk shrugs it off again. He stands back up quickly and bends down to pull Michaels up and away from the corner, but Michaels surprises him and sweeps his legs. The Heartbreak Kid then catapults him back in to the corner, and Punk’s head meets the top turnbuckle. Michaels gets back up and turns round as Punk staggers out of the corner in a spin and in to a SWINGING NECK BREAKER FROM MICHAELS!!. . . . . There are more cheers for Michaels as he takes Punk down to the mat.

The defending champion is showing some real grit as he sits up, following Michaels back up. The Showstopper pulls him up from his knees and lifts him off his feet in to an inverted atomic drop, generating a pop from the fans filling the HP Pavilion. The now shaky looking Punk hobbles around the mat and the challenger lifts him up off his feet and scoop slams him down to the canvas. The champion’s not getting up this time as Michaels walks in to the corner and climbs up to the top rope, getting the fans excited. They cheer as Shawn steadies himself on the summit and then dives off for an ELBOW DROP!!. . . . .

But no, Punk rolls to the side and the challenger crash lands on the mat, leaving Michaels’ fans disappointed. They try to encourage him to his feet, clapping continuously, and it works. The Straight-Edge Superstar makes a move too and as they get up, the champion reverses an irish whip, firing his opponent in to the ropes and planting Michaels as he comes back with a TILT-A-WHIRL BACKBREAKER!!. . . . . Yet more problems for Michaels and his back, and Punk knows that, confidently hooking Michaels’ leg, smiling as the referee drops down to his knees and makes the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

The Heartbreak Kid gets his shoulder up to the relief of the crowd, but Punk’s not amused. He’s becoming agitated and stands back up furiously, not wasting any time in dragging his opponent back up. Unsurprisingly Michaels doesn’t put up any resistance, clearly hurting with Punk whipping him with real force in to the corner, and the force sends Michaels crashing in to the pads and over the top rope, then down to the floor below. Punk barely cracks a smile as he sees Shawn hit the floor and watches him get up to his knees.

Michaels crawls towards the apron directly in front of the three announce tables, and as he grabs the apron, Punk flies at him and baseball slides in to his challenger’s face. The Heartbreak Kid falls back and hits the floor again with Punk sitting up on the apron, and now he can afford a smile as he runs his hands through his hair, taking a much needed breather. Michaels begins to show signs of his life, trying to get on to one knee in front of the Smackdown announce table, the furthest to the left of all three. Punk then steps down on to the floor and walks over to the table, reaches down and pulls Michaels up to his feet.

He holds on to the back of the legend’s head and drives it down in to the table, then lets go with Michaels falling to the floor again. The World Champion then strips the table, striking fear in to Michael Cole & Matt Striker, who stand up as Punk tosses their monitors to the side. The Showstopper tries to get back up to his feet, looking very groggy indeed, and Punk gives him a helping hand. He grabs him by the head and tries to drive it in to the exposed table, but Michaels blocks it and drives his elbow in to Punk’s ribs. The challenger then grabs Punk’s head and sends it smashing in to the table, not once but twice to a pop from the California faithful.

They cheer as Michaels then shoves Punk on to the table, struggling to move as The Heartbreak Kid walks back to the apron and climbs back on to it. He then makes his way all the way up to the top rope to a huge roar, and the fans rise to their feet as Shawn makes sure he keeps his balance. With Punk squirming on the table, Michaels strikes, leaping off the top and sending Punk through the table with THE HEARTBREAK ELBOW!!!. . . . . Cheers break out all across the arena as Michaels & Punk hit the floor through the table, both laying there in the wreckage.

“HOLY SHIT, HOLY SHIT!”

Michaels starts to stir, lifting his head up and looking very groggy. He then shimmies round and slowly makes his way back up, and it’s obviously very difficult for him. Punk comes round and Michaels bends down, finding it difficult to pull the champion up, who is almost dead weight. The Heartbreak Kid then walks back to the apron with Punk in his clutches and slides him back in to the ring, under the bottom rope. Michaels follows him in, crawling on to the apron and in to the ring. He’s still moving slowly as he ignores the pain he’s feeling and hooks the near leg of the champion with the referee dropping down to count Punk’s shoulders. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

Punk lifts his left boot up on to the bottom rope, ever so slightly breaking the heart of the challenger as he sits up and gazes at Punk’s foot staring back at him. Michaels grudgingly picks himself back up as the champion takes his foot off the rope and crawls towards them. The Heartbreak Kid backs up in to the corner and turns to the crowd, getting his focus back as he starts to tune up the band. He turns back to face Punk, who’s using the ropes to help him back up to his feet. The intensity on the face of Michaels increases as Punk gets closer to standing up, and as Punk gets up, turns round and walks away from the ropes, Michaels comes firing out of the corner and lifts his boot up towards Punk’s face for the SUPER KICK!!!. . . . .

But Punk ducks and grabs Michaels as they turn round to face each other around the upper torso, then lifts him off the mat and sends him down to the mat, holding on to lock in the ANACONDA VICE!!!. . . . . The fans are nervous as Punk wrenches away at Michaels, desperately trying to make him tap. There’s a real look of concern on the face of The Heartbreak Kid despite the fans’ attempts to encourage him, clapping and chanting “HBK” with Punk shutting it out, focusing firmly on the task in hand, squeezing the life out of The Showstopper, and it’s working. Michaels is fading, but the fans don’t give up on him. He comes back fighting, lifting his arm up in the air, trying to find the strength to break the hold.

He finds it and drags himself sideways, desperately trying to get to the ropes with Punk beginning to panic. He holds on and tries to halt the fight back, but he can’t as Michaels moves to within touching distance of the ropes, and he gets there, reaching out to grab the bottom rope to the absolute relief of the sell-out crowd. Cheers echo around the HP Pavilion as the incredibly frustrated World Heavyweight Champion lets the hold go and stares at Michaels and the crowd with disgust. He then stands up with a worn out Michaels still flat out by the ropes. The champion’s in no mood for sympathy and goes right after Michaels, pulling him up and away from the ropes, then lifts him on to his shoulders for the GO TO SLEEP!!!. . . . .

Boos ring round the arena as Punk keeps him up there a second to long. The Heartbreak Kid fights for his life and wriggles free down Punk’s back. The champion’s shell shocked and turns round as a still drowsy Michaels leans back and takes Punk’s head with off some SWEET CHIN MUSIC!!!. . . . . Massive cheers break out, but Michaels can’t take advantage as he falls to the mat and lies alongside the out cold CM Punk. Slowly, the challenger comes to life and lifts his head up, seeing Punk out of it and he stretches his arm out across Punk’s chest, prompting the ref to rush round, drop to his knees and make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Punk gets his shoulder up just in time. The dazed Michaels looks up and is absolutely gutted. He has to shake off the cobwebs as he tries to sit up, looking absolutely spent, as does Punk as he does the same. They both struggle desperately to stand back up, and as Punk turns round to face his challenger, Michaels thinks fast, grabbing Punk’s arm and pulling him in to the CROSS FACE!!!. . . . . It’s Punk’s turn to cling on to dear life as The Heartbreak Kid can see the title in his grasp as he now wrenches at his opponent’s face with the fans going nuts. They too can see the finish line as Punk screams “NO” at the referee asking him whether he wants to call it day.

He doesn’t despite the obvious agony written all over his bright red, scrunched up face. He reaches his arm out, nowhere near the ropes, full of desperation as he fights to keep hold of the world title. He starts to make progress, slowly dragging himself towards the apron with Michaels keeping the hold locked in and applying pressure to the champion. Punk drags himself closer, and you can see the hope in his eyes as he sees it glaring at him and throws his arm forward on to the bottom rope to the frustration of the crowd. Boos ring out as Michaels lets the hold go and Punk takes in as much air as is humanly possibly.

The Heartbreak Kid doesn’t intend to let him recover and grabs him by the legs, then drags him away from the ropes. Punk panics as Shawn tries to apply the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK!!. . . . . Punk scraps away and kicks up at Michaels, pushing him back and down to the mat on his back. Michaels’ back’s already causing him problems and keeps him down longer than he’d hope. Both he & Punk, clearly in pain struggle up to their feet, and as they find their sense of balance, they turn round with Punk ducking a right hand then exploding with a thunderous ROUNDHOUSE KICK!!. . . . . Michaels falls to the mat in a heap, and The Straight-Edge Superstar falls on top of him and puts his arm across his chest for a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . NO!

Michaels gets his shoulder to a big pop, and it’s Punk’s turn to feel the disappointment. He looks up at the referee in nothing more than hope, but he quickly realises the match is still going. Michaels lifts his head up off the mat and attempts to sit up, forcing Punk in to action. He makes his way back up and pulls Michaels up from his knees, then unloads with a series of stiff kicks to the gut of The Heartbreak Kid. Punk then grabs Michaels’ head and runs in to the corner, driving it furiously in to the turnbuckle pads.

Michaels turns round and leans against them as Punk backs away with a look of serious intent on his face before charging back in at his opponent and nailing him with a STEP UP ENZUIGIRI!!. . . . . A thud echoes around the HP Pavilion with Punk clinging on to Michaels’ head. He then turns round and runs out of the corner with Michaels’ head under his arm to plant him with a BULLDOG!!. . . . . Michaels isn’t moving as his head hits the mat, and Punk shifts round and turns him over on to his back right away, hooks the leg and makes a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO! Michaels kicks out, leaving Punk frustrated as hell. He bangs his heads against the mat and then stands up, staring down at Michaels as The Showstopper rolls on to his side in an attempt to get up. The Straight-Edge Superstar takes a step back and stalks him, urging him to get back up, and slowly he does. Punk goes right for him and reaches down to grab his feet for the GTS!!!. . . . . As he tries to lift him up on to his shoulders, The Heartbreak Kid jumps down to his feet. Punk is stunned and can only watch as Michaels sweeps his legs and lifts them off the mat so he can lock in the SHARPSHOOTER!!!. . . . .

The fans go nuts as Michaels turns Punk on to his back and stitches it in with the panicking Punk screaming in agony. He constantly tells the referee he doesn’t want to submit, and he again tries to reach out for the rope despite being almost half the ring away. Michaels pulls hard as he puts the pressure on Punk’s lower back, but the champion isn’t about to give it up. With everything he has left in the tank, he scratches and claws his away across the canvas as Michaels continues to put the pressure on him. The champ is still suffering as he drags himself closer to the ropes, and with one last lunge, he throws his arm on to the bottom rope to the disappointment of both Michaels & the crowd.

The Heartbreak Kid lets the hold go as he’s told and backs away as Punk tries to get his breath back again. Michaels once again retreats to the corner as Punk picks himself using the ropes to help him to his feet. The Showstopper could well be on the brink of victory as he tunes up the band one more time. The fans clap and stamp their feet in tandem with Michaels’ boot, and he’s locked on Punk. The World Champion then turns round and away from the ropes with Michaels racing out of the corner for the SUPER KICK!!!. . . . . Punk ducks his head again, and both men turn round with Punk lifting the challenger up off his feet for the GTS!!!. . . . .

The fans panic and so does Michaels, who slips down Punk’s back and steps back sizing him up for the SWEET CHIN MUSIC!!!. . . . . Punk turns round and ducks the boot again. They spin round in a hurry and Punk strikes with a ferocious ROUNDHOUSE KICK!!. . . . . Michaels’ feet fall from under him and he’s out of it. Punk sees that and hurries down to his knees to drag him up and on to his shoulders. The Showstopper doesn’t put up any resistance this time and the World Champion brings him crashing down on to his knees with the GTS!!!. . . . . Michaels is well and truly out of it and Punk wastes no time in throwing himself down on to his knees to cover Shawn with the ref doing the same and counting the fall. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES!! IT’S OVER!!


Winner: By pinfall, and still the World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk @ 21:12.

Aftermath: “This Fire Burns” plays and is met with heat from the California crowd as CM Punk stands up with a big smirk on his face. The referee walks back to him and presents him with the world title, then raises his hand in victory, which is met by more boos inside the HP Pavilion. Punk then grabs the belt by both hands and raises it high in the air, still smirking as he looks in to the crowd and the fans that are booing him. He then walks to the ropes and lifts it up with just one arm and points to his chest with his thumb in a closed fist, getting very animated as he taunts the crowd.

Michaels comes round, not knowing where he is at all behind Punk, who then turns round and watches The Heartbreak Kid sit up. They look at each other for several seconds, and as Michaels tries to stand up, Punk walks over to him and helps him up to his feet, keeping hold of his hand. Michaels looks in to his eyes and then nods, shaking Punk’s hand. There’s a mutual look of respect between both men as the disconsolate and defeated challenger leaves the victor in the ring to soak up the moment. Punk nods to himself as Michaels walks up the ramp looking very disappointed before the shot goes back to Punk in the ring standing proudly with the world title on his shoulder.

__________


*Video Recap*

***Raw, February 18th 2008
Handicap Match
Triple H vs. The McMahon Men

As Triple H steps through the ropes, all three McMahon’s charge at him and attack him with vicious shots to the head and chest, forcing him down to the mat where they continue the attack, stomping away at him. Mike Chioda tries to stop them, but they just push him away. Chioda gets up after several second and tries to break it up again, but Vince knocks him out with a hard right hand. Vince & Shane then lift Trips to his feet as JBL then slaps The Game in the face. JBL then pulls him in to position for THE LAST CALL. . . . . Just as he’s about to lift him up, “Line in the Sand” blasts out to a huge pop as Batista & Ric Flair charge down the ramp and slide in to the ring.

Batista charges at JBL and clotheslines him down to the mat as Flair punches Shane down and then Vince. As JBL gets back up, Batista whips him in to the ropes and plants him with a SPINEBUSTER. . . . . The roof is close to being blown off as Flair applies the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK ON VINCE. . . . . As Shane gets back up, Batista kicks him in the gut and then plants him with the BATISTA BOMB. . . . . Triple H makes his way back up to his feet as Batista too stands back up and Flair lets the hold go on Vince. They all meet in the middle of the ring and hug for a couple of seconds before they raise each others arms in the air to “Line in the Sand” as that plays again to the delight of the German fans with the show coming to a close.


***WrestleMania 24, March 30th 2008

Lilian Garcia:
At a combined weight of 787 pounds. . . the team of Batista, “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair, and Triple H. . . EVOLUTION!!

“Line in the Sand” blasts out & Evolution make their way down to the ring with their game faces on, united once again on the grandest stage of them all.

Evolution vs. The Corporation
The Chairman of the Board enters the ring again with the chair in hand as both Flair and Triple H come back round, but Vince makes a bee line for HHH as he gets back up first and drives the chair across the back of The Game, sending him back down to the mat. A chorus of boos rings out as Vince smiles sadistically before turning back round to see Flair standing back up. He walks over and lifts the chair above his head, then BRINGS THE CHAIR CRASHING DOWN TOWARDS FLAIR’S SKULL. . . . . BUT THE NATURE BOY KICKS VINCE IN THE GROIN. . . . . The chair drops to the mat along with Vince as Flair then kicks the chair out of the ring and locks in THE FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK TO A MASSIVE POP FROM THE CROWD. . . . .

The crowd all rise to their feet and watch on as Flair makes Vince scream out in pain with The Nature Boy pulling tightly on the legs of the Chairman of the Board. Everyone else is out of it as Vince looks in grave danger with Eric Bischoff running down the aisle in a referee’s shirt to a mixed reception. Flair looks stunned as Bischoff enters the ring, but carries on with the hold, desperately trying to force Vince to tap with the owner of the WWE struggling to get close to the ropes, and as Flair’s face goes bright red with the desperation, Vince gives up the fight and taps out with Bischoff calling for the bell.

“Line in the Sand” blasts out as The Nature Boy slowly gets back up to his feet, looking in shock as Bischoff raises his hand in the air. Bischoff looks the same as ever, and after letting go of Flair’s hand, he leaves the ring, just as Batista & Triple H pick themselves back up and congratulate Flair. They turn to see Bischoff walking back up the aisle, who also turns back and looks in to the ring with Evolution looking very confused. Triple H then shrugs his shoulders and hugs Flair, as does Batista before they all raise their hands together to a huge ovation from the sell out crowd. JBL sits up and then drags Vince to the ropes and then out of the ring as Evolution walk to the ropes and pose for the crowd. Vince & JBL don’t look happy at all, neither does Shane as he comes too on the outside as a victorious Evolution celebrate in each corner of the ring with big smiles on their faces.


***Vengeance, May 29th 2008
Evolution vs. The Corporation

Show’s not impressed though and as he stands back up, the complacency is gone. He’s found his mean streak and taunts The Game, urging him to get up. Show raises his hand up in the air, signalling for the CHOKESLAM!!!. . . . . Slowly but surely Triple H finds a way back up, but as he gets up, Show grabs him by the throat again and lifts him up in to the air. He keeps him there for a couple of seconds, and The Game starts to wriggle about and then manages to jump down to his feet, landing close to the ropes. Batista walks across the apron and taps him on the back for a blind tag, and it’s acknowledged by the referee. Batista steps inside, but The Game doesn’t notice and goes right back to the stunned Big Show, kicks him in the gut and CONNECTS WITH THE PEDIGREE!!!. . . . .

The crowd explodes, but as Triple H turns Show on to his back, Batista steps in and drops down to make the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No, Triple H pulls Batista up to his feet. The bemused Triple H asks Batista what he’s doing, and The Animal tries to explain and motions to him that he made the tag. The Game angrily shakes his head and shoves his team-mate in the chest in front of the confused fans. Flair then gets in the ring as Batista steps forward and shoves Triple H to the amusement of JBL. With Evolution arguing, Show crawls towards his corner as Flair tries to cool things down with Show then tagging in Kozlov. The big Russian hit-man walks towards the bickering trio and knocks Batista down to his knees with a double axe-handle.

Triple H then hammers away at him and sends him down to the mat with a fierce right hand. That angers JBL, and he decides to get involved. He climbs in the ring and runs right at The Game, but Triple H sees him coming and kicks him in the gut, then grabs him by the tights and turns round to toss him over the top rope to the floor below. Triple H stares down at JBL as Kozlov & Batista make their way back up behind him. Flair tries to warn them as Triple H turns round and sees Kozlov run at Batista, but The Animal steps to the side as Kozlov runs through and clotheslines Triple H over the top rope and to the outside. Kozlov turns round frantically and runs at The Animal, right in to a SPINEBUSTER!!!. . . . .

The fans are on their feet as Batista stands back up, but Show is in the ring and runs at Flair, knocking him down with a clothesline. Batista gets up in time to turn back in to the ropes and run back at Show to take him down with a SPEAR!!!. . . . . The fans are going nuts, and as Batista stands back up, Kozlov struggles to his feet in front of him. Everyone else is down and out, and Batista takes full advantage by pulling Kozlov in to his body before lifting him up above his head and sending him crashing down to the mat with a huge BATISTA BOMB!!!. . . . . The fans are all on their feet as Batista crawls forward and makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.

“Line in the Sand” blasts out to a massive pop. Batista stands up and gets his arm raised by the referee, and is then joined by Flair as he gets up. The Nature Boy hugs Batista as Triple H gets up on the outside and sees his two team-mates celebrating. JBL looks furious as he sits up, and The Game doesn’t look too happy either as he slides back in the ring. Flair & Batista pull away from the hug and see The Game standing there staring at them. The Nature Boy smiles widely at him and walks over to hug Triple H, but The Game just stares right over his shoulder at Batista. The Animal stares back at him with Flair then pulling back and grabbing both men by the arm, then raises both of them in to the air.

***Later that night

All three members of Evolution are stood in the production area with Batista psyching himself up for the big match coming up next. Ric Flair & Triple H are stood at the side of him with The Game looking very envious while Flair is almost beaming. Flair smiles as he turns round to face Triple H, who stares directly at Batista with a look that could kill.

Ric Flair: What the hell’s the matter with you? The least y’could do is be supportive.

The Game slowly turns his head towards Flair and gives him a similar look before turning back to Batista, still scowling.

Triple H: Good luck.

After that ungracious message of support, he shrugs his way past The Animal and out of the shot, leaving Flair shaking his head in anger, but Batista doesn’t look bothered.

Ric Flair: I can’t believe him. . . Well, he might not be behind y’t’night, but I sure as hell I am.


***Even later that night
WWE Championship
Batista vs. Kane (c) vs. Randy Orton

He then whips The Animal in to the ropes, but as the big man comes back off the ropes, he takes the champion down with a DIVING SHOULDER TACKLE!!. . . . . The crowd cheer again as they both pick themselves up, and as Kane walks towards him, Batista leans forward and lifts him off his feet to send his back forcefully in to the mat with a SPINEBUSTER!!. . . . . That gets the crowd going, and Batista then lifts his thumbs up again, bringing an incredibly worried Bearer up on to the apron. Batista walks towards him, but Flair has it covered.

He walks round and pulls him down, then lays him out with a right hand to another huge pop. Batista smiles down at his mentor before turning round and walking over to Kane. The Big Red Machine tries to get on to one knee, and The Animal gives him a helping hand. He drags him in to his body, setting him up for the BATISTA BOMB!!!. . . . . He gets Kane up in the air and nails it. The champion is helpless, Orton is only starting to come round by the ropes and the crowd are on their feet as Batista crawls forward and makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3!. . . . . It’s over despite a despairing lunge from Orton. We have a new WWE Champion!

“I Walk Alone” blasts out to a deafening cheer inside the Joe Louis Arena. Batista leans back on his knees looking absolutely overwhelmed, nearly shedding a tear as Flair walks round to collect the WWE title belt. An extremely angry Orton sits up and stares across at Flair, who then climbs in to the ring and hands the title over to the new WWE Champion. The Animal stands up and raises it in to the air while getting his arm raised aloft by both the ref and Flair. Batista then hugs Flair before walking in to the corner and climbing up to the second rope to pose with the title, sending the Detroit crowd nuts. The huge smile on Batista’s face is in great contrast to the bitter look on Orton’s. The Legend Killer stands up and stares across at Batista for several seconds before stepping through the ropes with disgust, leaving Batista & Flair all alone. The Animal then steps down and walks across to hug an elated Flair one more time as the show then comes to a close.


***Raw, June 30th 2008

Batista & Ric Flair
walked through the back and into their locker room to be greeted by Triple H. There was a lot of tension in the air as no one knew what to say. Batista & Flair then walked in and let the door shut with Triple H then saying that he had something he needed to say. He apologised to them for being so caught up in his problems with Vince & The Corporation and admitted that everything got way out of control. He appeared to be very humble and then said that he was very grateful to them for helping him out when they didn’t need to and that everything worked out because they won the war last night. He went on to say that if he couldn’t be the WWE Champion, he was just glad one of them is and that he was happy for Batista before apologising again and offering his hand out to him. The Animal smiled and shook, delighting Flair. The Nature Boy said he was glad they cleared the air and now everything was sorted between them.

***Later that night

WWE Championship
Batista (c) vs. Kane

The Animal looked to finish the match off, signalling for the Batista Bomb. The crowd went nuts while Bearer panicked in a big way. He jumped up to the apron, catching the referee’s attention, and Batista’s. The WWE Champion walked over to him with the referee, and as he did so, Randy Orton jumped the barricade and slid in to the ring behind them both. The ref told Batista he would deal with Bearer, and as The Animal turned round, Orton caught him with the RKO to a ton of heat in the area. Ric Flair & Triple H then ran down to the ring and scared off Orton, who left through the crowd as Bearer stepped down off the apron. Both Batista & Kane made their way back up with Kane trying for a Chokeslam and hitting it, but the defending champion kicked out at two with Evolution cheering him on from the outside. Kane then got back up and signalled for the Tombstone Piledriver, but as he tried to scoop his opponent up, Batista slipped down his back and shoved him in to the ropes. As Kane came back, Batista levelled him with another Spinebuster. The Animal didn’t waste any time in dragging him right back up to plant him with the Batista Bomb. The crowd went nuts as Triple H then blocked off Bearer, allowing Batista to make the cover and win the match to retain his title and send Kane & Bearer out of the WWE forever.

Triple H went round and collected the world title as Flair got in the ring to congratulate Batista. Bearer started crying on the outside, watching on helplessly as Flair and the referee raised Batista’s arms in the air. All smiles, The Game climbed in to the ring with Batista’s belt. He walked towards them with Evolution all smiles. The Game then was about to pass him the title but pulled it back. Batista & Flair looked confused before Triple H then drilled Batista right in the face with the belt. The music stopped and the crowd booed as Triple H stared down intensely at Batista, leaving Flair shell shocked. The Game then looked up and dropped the title on the champion with Flair begging for answers, and he got one in the shape of a Pedigree. The fans booed like crazy as Triple H got back up and looked down at them both with no remorse whatsoever.


***Raw, July 7th 2008

“The Game”
blasts out to a ton of heat from the crowd as a very intense Triple H walks in to the arena, interrupting a ticked off Eric Bischoff. Wearing jeans, a T-shirt and a leather jacket, The Game walks down to the ring with Bischoff not looking very happy at all to see him as Triple H then collects a microphone.

Triple H: All I have one is very simple request. Well it’s more of a demand. . . I want Batista, and I want him right here t’night.

Eric Bischoff: Do you not remember what you did last week?. . . See Hun’er, turning on your friends and telling the world that you’re a selfish, two-faced individual at the same time isn’t something that I can punish you for, but you put your hands on a referee, one of my referees. . . That’s the reason why you won’t be facing Batista t’night or any other night in the near future, because as of right now you’re suspended indefinitely.

Eric Bischoff: Now if you don’t mind, I’d like t’ have some security officers come down here and escort this man off my show.

A group of six security workers walk down the ramp and in to the ring, and then grab hold of The Game.

Triple H: Bischoff, rest assured you’re gonna be very, very sorry. Mark my words.

Eric Bischoff: Get him out o’ here.

***Later that night

Triple H
is shown being escorted in to the parking lot and to his car by security. He opens his car door and they back away, but as Triple H turns his head, he looks surprised. The camera pans to the right to show a pissed Ric Flair storming towards him with a calmer Batista following behind.

Ric Flair: YOU NO GOOD SON OF A BITCH!

Security quickly block Flair off, but he tries to get past them.

Ric Flair: WHY’D YOU DO IT HUH? COME ON, DON’T HIDE BEHIND THEM YOU COWARD.

Triple H stares right at Flair, who is still being held back by security with Batista standing behind him.

Batista: Forget it Ric, he’s not worth it.

Flair backs down, as do security.

Ric Flair: You’re right Dave. I don’t know what I was thinkin’. He’s nothin’.

***Later that night
Non-Title Match
Batista vs. Randy Orton

As the champion got to his feet, Orton went for the RKO, but Batista pushed him back in to the ropes and kicked him in the gut as he came back. He then pulled him in to place and planted him with the Batista Bomb. Just as he was about to go for the cover, Triple H made his way down the ramp with a sledgehammer in hand. Flair was standing with his back to the ramp, totally unaware of The Game approaching behind him. The fans tried to warn him, and so did Batista as he turned round in a horror. Flair didn’t know what was going on as he turned right round in to a shot to the head with the sledgehammer. Triple H then slid inside the ring as Batista got to his feet. Batista went right for him but ran right in to a shot of The Game’s trusted ally, causing the referee to call for the bell. He too then fell foul of sledgy as The Game looked down at the carnage.

The camera cuts to the back and there’s a lot of noise with several officials & backstage workers rallying round and calling for help. We then see one of the referees turn round and drop to his knees, and we’re greeted by the sight of Eric Bischoff laid out face down across the floor. EMT’s rush over to him while the camera switches back to the arena with the footage in the back being shown on the tron for the fans to see, as well as a smirking Triple H.


***Raw, July 14th 2008

Linda McMahon's
music plays and she walks down to the ring surrounded by security. The fans cheer and she gives them a brief smile, clearly meaning business here tonight. She collects a microphone and stands in the middle of the ring to address the Richmond crowd while the security cover all sides of the ring.

Linda McMahon: As I'm sure you're all aware, the Head of Authority for Monday Night Raw, Eric Bischoff was taken to a local medical facility last week following an incident backstage. . . It's very clear that a replacement is required in order to calm the storm and keep things ticking over as we head in to SummerSlam. . . So, ladies and gentleman, I introduce to you, the acting General Manager of Raw, Tazz.

"13" hits and a very happy Tazz walks down to the ring, dressed in a suit and shakes Linda's hand as he steps inside the squared circle.

Tazz: It's pretty obvious that we've got a lot o' egos an' attitude runnin' riot on Raw, but I gotta tell ya, that ends right here right now. I sure as hell ain't gonna let anyone get away with doin' whatever the hell they want. 'cause as of right now, things are gonna change. . .

"King of Kings" blasts out & an intense Triple H walks down the ramp to a ton of heat. He gets to the ring and stops to stare at the security workers before climbing up the steps and entering the ring. Security turn round and face the ring, keeping their eyes firmly on The King of Kings. Tazz doesn't look best pleased as he watches Triple H walk past him to get a microphone of his own and then join him in the middle of the ring.

Triple H: With Bischoff out of the way, it's down t' you to give me what I want. . . I want Batista one on one for the World Heavyweight Championship.

Tazz: There's no way in hell I'm gonna give you a shot at the WWE Championship. . . See I ain't a believer in people sittin' at home as a punishment. People like you need t' face the consequences of your actions. . . One of the first decisions I had t' make after re-instatin' ya was what t' do about SummerSlam an' the World Heavyweight Championship. We're little over a month away an' I'm gonna put on one hell of a show of each one o' these fans. For that t' happen, I need a huge, an' I mean a huge main event, an' y'can bet your ass that's what you're gonna see. . . I got t' thinkin' 'bout what just what I was gonna do, an' then it hit me. What better way t' headline SummerSlam than bring back Eric Bischoff's own creation. . . the Elimination Chamber.

*Massive Pop*

Tazz:
You an' Batista might wanna tear each other apart, but he ain't the only one who wants t' get his hands on ya. That's why you've been re-instated, an' the man you'll be facin' at SummerSlam might not be Batista, but he's also a member of Evolution. . . Y'might not be facin' Batista, but Hun'er, the man you'll be facin' at SummerSlam is ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair, an' if y'don't like it, that's tough.

Triple H is pissed and stares right at Tazz, and the new boss of Raw walks past him without a care in the world.

***Later that night

An intense Triple H is being interviewed by Todd Grisham.

Todd Grisham: Triple H, two weeks ago you shocked ev'ryone when you turned your back on two of your best friends, Batista and Ric Flair. I have to ask you why. Why did you stab them in the back?

Triple H: I live, sleep and breathe for the WWE Championship, and t' see it around the waist of someone as ungrateful as Batista, a man I brought back to Raw drives me crazy. . . I brought him back to Raw and he was the one who turned his back on me and Evolution by going after the WWE Championship.

Todd Grisham: But what about Flair? You and him. . .

Triple H: . . . There is no me and Ric anymore Todd. Just like Batista, I brought him back t' Raw, and he let Batista walk away from Evolution. He made his choice and stood by Batista. . . The only thing I care about right now is beating Ric Flair to a bloody pulp at SummerSlam. And make no mistake about it Todd, I will do just that and end the career of Ric Flair once and for all.

***Later on that night
Batista & Ric Flair vs. The Big Show & JBL

Vince & Shane were looking worried on the outside as the WWE Champion stood back up to a big pop. He walked over to the ropes and shook them in a frenzy before walking back towards Show. As he lifted his thumbs up and brought them down, JBL raced back in to the ring. Batista countered with a spinning powerslam to take Layfield down. Just as he got back up though, Triple H charged down the ramp and pulled an unsuspecting Flair off the apron. He nailed him with a couple of hard right hands before whipping him in to the ring steps. The referee saw it and called for the bell, awarding the match in favour of Batista & Flair by disqualification. The Game stomped all over Flair on the outside with Batista then walking over to try and stop it.

The Big Show was back up though and pulled him back, then turned him round in to a chokeslam, much to the satisfaction of Vince & Shane. JBL returned to his feet with the same look of satisfaction as his father & brother. He then told Show to pick Batista up, and the big man did just that. JBL then gave him some instructions before turning back to run the ropes, then came flying back at Batista with Show letting him go in enough time for JBL to hit the Clothesline From Hell. Boos rang out as Triple H continued his attack on Flair too, pulling him up and whipping him in to the ringpost. Vince & Shane got in the ring with Vince holding the WWE Championship. All four members of The Corporation looked down and laughed at Batista while Triple H looked on with Vince then dropping the belt on the fallen champion as the show came to a close.


***Raw, July 28th 2008

It's deafening inside the arena with boos ringing out all around Freedom Hall as one very angry looking Triple H walks out to the stage, and the boos get even louder as he enters the arena.

Triple H: Ric Flair, get your ass out here right now.

“WOOOOOOO!”

“Sprach Zarathustra”
plays and out walks Ric Flair to a massive pop. Triple H looks slightly calmer but he doesn't take his eyes off of The Nature Boy for a second, who calmly walks down the ramp, not showing any fear whatsoever.

Triple H: You more than anybody know what I'm capable of doing t' you at SummerSlam. . . You might well be the dirtiest player in the game, but I am The Game. I am that damn good Ric, and at SummerSlam, I'll still be that damn good, too good and too much for you t. . .

Ric Flair: . . . Y'KNOW WHAT HUN’ER?. . . THE ONLY THING YOU'LL EVER GO DOWN AS IS A SELFISH SON OF A BITCH.

*Big Pop*

The red faced Flair erupts as Triple H watches on.

Ric Flair: AND YOU'LL NEVER. . . NEVER BE THE NATURE BOY. AND I PROMISE Y’HUN’ER, THE NATURE BOY’S ALIVE AND WELL, BUT YOU’RE GONNA FIND THAT OUT FOR YOURSELF WHEN THE NATURE BOY KICKS YOUR ASS AT SUMMERSLAM.

Triple H: If The Nature Boy's alive and well and somehow you beat me at SummerSlam. . . fine. But if I beat The Nature Boy, I want you to walk away from this business once and for all and accept that I'm not just the better man but the greatest of all time.

*Major Heat*

Triple H: You can lie to me and all these people all you want, but you can't lie to yourself anymore Ric. It's time you stopped living a lie and faced facts. It's time you walked away, and I'm gonna make sure you do. I wanna be the one that ends your career, and you know. . . you know I can do it Ric. But if you think diff'rently, you won't have a problem saying yes.

Ric Flair: I've got nothing left to prove, least of all to you, but you have no idea how much I wanna beat the holy hell out o' you. And even though you wouldn't 'ave had the guts t' challenge me like this ten years ago. . . I ACCEPT.

*Big Pop*

Triple H smiles the moment he hears the acceptance, but Flair drops the microphone quickly and nails him with a right hand. They slug it out with The King of Kings knocking him down to the mat. Flair gets right back up and they continue to batter each other with right hands. Eight security guys race down the ramp and get in the ring to separate them, closely followed by Batista to a huge pop as both men try desperately to get at each other with security managing to keep them apart. Batista helps pull Flair away as Triple H glares at them both and tries to shake security off, but he can't. The WWE Champion then manages to get Flair out of the ring, but The Nature Boy carries on staring right at Triple H as “Sprach Zarathustra” plays again with The King of Kings furiously looking on from the ring.


***Raw, August 11th 2008 (Last Monday)

The incredibly intense figure of Triple H steps out to the stage to be met with the deafening heat being thrown at him by the unwelcoming English crowd. He couldn’t care less as he walks down the ramp serious as hell before climbing up the steps and entering the ring. He stops and stares at Tazz before walking past him, and instead of sitting down, he glares menacingly in to the stands of the Wembley Arena.

“WOOOOOO”

The King of Kings turns his head and focuses on the stage. The roof may well be in danger of being blown off as Ric Flair makes his way out to the stage with the fans going absolutely nuts for The Nature Boy. He walks down the ramp and locks his eyes on the man who is hell bent on ending his career at SummerSlam. If looks could kill, they would be right now as Flair enters the ring, continuing to stare at Triple H, who’s glaring right back at him. Flair walks towards Tazz and tries to get past him, but Raw’s temporary general manager holds him back and manages to calm him down. The music stops and Flair settles down with, well he appears to before pushing his chair to the mat.

Triple H: Face it Ric, it’s long overdue. You’ve been in this business way too long, but not for much longer. What you’re going to experience at SummerSlam will be like nothing else you’ve ever been through. You’ll think back t’ the plane crash that broke your back, an’ Ric, you’ll wish you were back on that plane ‘cause I’m not gonna settle for just breaking your back. . . The plane, god, fate might have taken mercy on you Ric, but I promise you, I won’t. I’m going t’ break ev’ry bone in that battered, tired, fragile body of yours, and most importantly, I’m gonna love ev’ry last second of it.

Ric Flair: YOU WANNA COME OUT HERE AN’ TELL ALL THESE PEOPLE THAT MY CAREER’S OVER, YOU’RE MAKIN’ A BIG MISTAKE ‘CAUSE IT AIN’T OVER YET. . . PEOPLE ‘AVE UNDERESTIMATED RIC FLAIR FOR YEARS AN’ YEARS, BUT LET ME TELL Y’SOMETHIN’ HUN’ER, I’VE SURPRISED PEOPLE ALL MY LIFE.

*Pop*

Ric Flair: It’s why they say I’m the greatest of all time, something no one will ever say about you. If I get my ass handed t’ me at SummerSlam, then that’s a risk I’m happy t’ take, ‘cause it’ll be worth it. . .

Triple H: . . . Worth it? Will it be worth it with so much at stake Ric? Will it be worth losing ev’rything you’ve ever had? Your whole life has been in this ring Ric. After SummerSlam, you’ll have nothing.

Ric Flair: You might think it’s time for me t’ walk away in t’ the sunset, and I admit that I’ve thought about the possibility my career could come to an end at SummerSlam. I’ve seriously considered that this might just be my last match, ‘an that’s a feeling that scares the hell out o’ me. But like I said before, there’s still life left in The Nature Boy yet, an’ if you don’t believe me, there’s only one way I can show you.

Flair pushes the table over, steps forward and nails Triple H with the microphone, sending him down to the mat. The Nature Boy then drops to his knees and hammers away at The King of Kings, but Tazz gets involved and pulls him off of Triple H. Flair watches on as his SummerSlam opponent rolls on to his side, and that gives him the opportunity to find the contract and sign it. He shoves it in to Tazz’s chest before going back over to Triple H, who gets to his knees and shoves Flair back in to Tazz, who falls to his knees. Flair turns round in surprise, but it gives The King of Kings time to stand up and spin Flair round in to a Pedigree. Boos ring out as Triple H stands up and glares down at Flair, who’s not moving at all.

Tazz is though and he doesn’t look happy. The temporary GM gets to his feet not looking too happy, and he has a go at The King of Kings, who then slowly turns his head to give him an incredibly dirty look. Tazz isn’t intimidated though and continues giving Triple H the what for, but he’s regretting it now as Trips kicks him in the gut and drills him head first in to the canvas courtesy of a Pedigree. The English fans’ boos get even louder. They’re deafening in fact as Triple H looks up in to the stands and at the fans with Flair & Tazz motionless in the ring. It’s carnage and “King of Kings” blasts out, failing to cover up the boos as the remorseless Triple H stands tall in the ring assessing the damage.

__________


*Video Promo*



Coming Soon!


{Cut to the Arena}


*The Main Event*



Career Ending No Holds Barred Match
Ric Flair vs. Triple H

Last 15 Minutes:
Flair is in a bad way and the incredibly intense Triple H has no intention of easing up on him as he pulls him up from the mat and fires him in to the corner. Flair’s back hits the pads and he slumps against them, not able to defend himself as The King of Kings runs in at him and levels him with a hard clothesline across the chest. Triple H backs out of the corner with The Nature Boy staggering out towards him in to his path, walking right in to a SPINNING SPINE BUSTER!!. . . . . Flair’s back is driven in to the canvas, resulting in a forceful impact for the greatest of all time.

Again, The Game isn’t showing any sympathy as you would expect and stands up, bringing Flair with him. He grabs him around the waist, lifts him off his feet in to a vertical position and drives The Nature Boy’s back in to his extended knee. Flair lets out a shriek as he hits the deck, wincing in pain, and The King of Kings again stands up, not looking satisfied enough with the damage he’s doing to The Nature Boy. He drags the aching veteran back up again and thrusts him furiously in to the pads again, so much so that Flair’s back hits them and he just falls forward and drops to the mat.

Triple H shows the first sign of satisfaction as he watches Flair writhing around in agony, struggling to get back up. He resorts to using the ropes to help him get to his feet, and as soon as he does, he turns round to see The King of Kings charging at him to send him over the top rope and down to the floor with a clothesline. The greatest of all time looks in deep trouble as he crawls to the Raw announce table and Triple H follows him right out, looking so calm and composed as he steps through the ropes and jumps down to the arena floor. Flair tries to pull himself up the table, and Trips takes advantage, grabbing him by the head and driving it in to the table.

He lets go of his head and The Nature Boy slumps back down to the floor. Triple H stares down at him menacingly and then decides to inflict more pain on him, stripping the announce table, causing JR & DiBiase to stand up in a panic. They watch on as The Game grabs a monitor and turns his attention back to his opponent, who doesn’t have a clue what is waiting for him. The King of Kings takes a couple of steps back and gets ready to take Flair’s head off, and as The Nature Boy stands up, Triple H steps forward and NAILS HIM WITH THE MONITOR!!!. . . . .

Flair just falls to the floor as Triple H drops the monitor without any care, just letting it hit the arena floor. Flair comes round, lifting his head up, revealing the extent of the blow with blood pouring from his head. The Game can’t see it yet and we see what’s going through his head as he bends down and exposes the concrete floor, ripping a mat up from the floor. The fans are panicking as Flair unwittingly claws his way up to his knees. The scarily intense King of Kings grabs him by the head and pulls him in to place for a pedigree, standing on the concrete floor with Flair’s head destined to meet it.

The King of Kings stares at the crowd as he prepares to KO his opponent, but The Nature Boy stuns him by blocking it and then countering in to a BACK BODY DROP ON TO THE SOLID CONCRETE!!!. . . . . A massive pop breaks out in the HP Pavilion, and Triple H is in agony, sitting up and shouting out in pain. Flair remains on the floor too, squirming around as the fans continue to cheer. Flair crawls to the apron and pulls himself up it while The King of Kings also makes his way back up as a cameraman tries to get a close up of Flair, and The Nature Boy steals the camera from him. He turns round with pure hatred in his eyes as The Game tries to steady himself.

Unbeknown to Triple H, Flair is sizing him up, and he turns round with Flair NAILING HIM WITH THE CAMERA TO THE SKULL!!!. . . . . The King of Kings hits the floor, looking out of it as Flair drops the camera and then drops to his knees to pummel Triple H with a series of vicious right hands, and the fans love it. He then stops as he sees something in the corner of his eye. He crawls across on his knees and pulls some cables from under the apron. He’s got a sick smile on his face, and the groggy Triple H doesn’t have a clue. He’s helpless as The Nature Boy then wraps the cable around his neck and chokes the life out of him with the fans going nuts, willing him on.

Flair’s lost it and he continues to strangle The King of Kings who tries to pull the cable away from his throat, but he can’t and he drifts out of consciousness. He slumps to the side and to the floor, and the red faced Flair lets go of the cable, tossing it to the side as he glares down at his motionless opponent with no remorse whatsoever. He then stands up and tries to drag The Game up, and he struggles. It’s dead weight and he has to use all the strength he has to get him up and force him up on to the apron. He then pushes him in to the ring and crawls back inside himself, pulls him away from the ropes and hooks the leg for a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

The King of Kings gets his shoulder up to the annoyance of The Nature Boy. He leans back on to his knees, breathing heavily as Triple H’s eyes start to flicker. He doesn’t know where he is, and Flair just glares down at him with nothing but hate. He then stands back up and continues to stare at his bitter enemy. He then grabs his legs and pulls him away from the ropes, then looks in to the crowd for a couple of seconds, getting a cheer as he applies the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK TO A HUGE ROAR FROM THE CALIFORNIA CROWD!!!. . . . .

The fans are blowing the roof off of the HP Pavilion, chanting for The Game to tap out, but he doesn’t despite Flair’s best efforts to make him do so. The Nature Boy’s face is bright red and he’s pulling away at Triple H’s legs with his own legs, even bouncing up and down on the mat to try and make him give up. The King of Kings is struggling big time and shakes his head with the referee right in his face, asking him whether he wants to quit. It’s a defiant no and The Game sits up and tries to pull himself back with Flair’s eyes locked on him in the struggle.

Triple H digs deep and drags himself back, worrying Flair who keeps the hold locked in for as long as he can, but The King of Kings fights his way back in to the ropes. Boos ring round the HP Pavilion as Flair’s told to let the hold go, but he doesn’t and there’s nothing the referee can do. Triple H is fuming and still in pain as he glares at the defiant Nature Boy, who then decides to let the hold go. He stands up and leaves the ring straight away with Triple H trying to sit up, leaning against the ropes with his back to Flair, who grabs a steel chair from the timekeeper’s table to a big pop and heads back in to the ring.

The King of Kings stands up and holds on to the ropes as he walks along them while Flair slips back inside with the chair in hand. The fans cheer as he sets his sights of the unsteady Triple H, who gets his balance and then turns round to face Flair. He panics and Flair drives the top of the chair in to his gut, sending The Game down to his knees. Flair stares down at him, full of rage as he then lifts the chair up above his head, about to bring it down when Triple H takes a page out of the dirtiest player of all time’s book by low blowing him. Flair’s legs fall from under him and he hits the canvas, letting go of the chair to the disappointment of the crowd. Triple H just sn-iggers as he watches Flair roll around in agony.

The Game then pulls himself back up, showing the effects of the match so far as he reaches down and picks up the chair his opponent brought in to the ring. The King of Kings takes a look at it for a couple of seconds and then tosses it to the side, then leaves the ring to look under the apron. He then pulls out the one person he trusts, sledgy! He stands up and lifts it up to a ton of heat from the California fans, and they can sense the danger The Nature Boy is in as he crawls on to his knees in the ring.

The Game slips back in under the bottom rope along with sledgy, and he stares intently at his opponent, who just about gets up, and as he turns round, The King of Kings paces across the mat and BATTERS HIM WITH THE SLEDGEHAMMER!!!. . . . . Flair hits the deck again, and we can see that he’s been busted open as he lies face down on the mat. Triple H lets go of his trusty ally and drops to his knees, still very intense as he rolls Flair on to his back, then hooks the leg for a cover. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Flair just about lifts his shoulder up before the ref could count to three, and the fans are going nuts. Triple H doesn’t look happy at all though. He’s spitting feathers as he stares down at the bloodied Nature Boy, who opens his eyes, clearly in a bad way. The King of Kings slowly stands back up, still staring down at his opponent with absolute fury as The Nature Boy tries to sit up. The Cerebral Assassin allows the battered Flair to crawl up to his knees in front of him, and Flair pulls himself up The Game’s legs with Triple H just glaring at him every step of the way.

Flair manages to get to his feet and slaps his rival, who responds instantly with a kick to the gut and then pulls Flair’s head between his legs, setting him up for the PEDIGREE!!!. . . . . The fans boo but they can’t stop it as Triple H hits it, driving Flair’s head in to the mat. He’s out and the fans know it, and so does Triple H. He turns him over again on to his back and makes the cover with the fans watching on with great concern as the referee hits the mat to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!

No, wait! Flair somehow got his shoulder up and the fans can’t believe it, and neither can Triple H. The fans are cheering as the stunned and angry King of Kings stares down at his barely moving opponent. He doesn’t take too long before making his next move in standing back up and dragging Flair back up with him, setting him up for another PEDIGREE!!!. . . . . The King of Kings lifts his head up and looks in to the crowd, and as he does so, Flair shows he’s up for a war and drops to his knees, then low blows The Game.

Both men hit the mat to a big pop and stay there for a good while, and when they try to get back up, Flair sees the sledgehammer to the side of him. He brings it up with him, much to the approval of the fans who cheer as both men make it up to their feet. Flair gets ready with the sledgehammer, and as The Game turns round, The Nature Boy DRIVES THE GAME’S OWN WEAPON IN TO HIS SKULL!!!. . . . . The fans are on their feet as The King of Kings falls to the mat to a massive cheer, and Flair’s eyes light up. He drops the sledgehammer and to his knees, grabs Triple H’s legs and makes the cover with The Game not moving. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO!

Triple H somehow manages to lift his shoulder up to the amazement of the fans, and Flair too. He can’t believe it and he doesn’t know what to make of it, just sat up on his knees in shock. Triple H comes round and crawls on his knees towards the corner, and that gets Flair going again. The Nature Boy turns his head and sees the sledgehammer still sitting on the mat. He picks it up and stands back up as Triple H pulls himself up the pads, then removes the top turnbuckle pad. Not many people notice, and neither Flair or the referee does.

The Nature Boy is too busy staring at his back, ready to strike with the sledgehammer again, and as Triple H turns round and walks out of the corner, Flair runs at him with the weapon in hand. The Game ducks his head though and grabs Flair’s legs, pulling them off the mat and holding on to them. Flair drops sledgy and Triple H catapults him in to the exposed turnbuckle. The bloodied Flair’s head hits the steel and he turns round in a dazed, staggers out in to The Game’s grasp, and Triple H kicks him in the gut, then plants him with a SINGLE ARM DDT!!. . . . .

Flair’s head takes another trip in to the canvas, and he’s barely moving as The King of Kings stands up and calmly walks round to his opponent’s legs. He lifts them up off the mat and stares down intensely at Flair for a second before applying Flair’s own hold, the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK!!!. . . . . The fans boo for a few seconds, and then they start to encourage Flair, who sits up and screams in pain, shaking his head defiantly as Triple H puts him through hell, using the strength in his legs to do so. It shows on the face of The Nature Boy with blood pouring down it.

His resilience shines through as he holds on and fights for his career and slowly turns on to his side, trying to reverse the hold. The Game panics ever so slightly and tries to stop it, but he can’t, and Flair turns him over to a massive cheer. Triple H screams out and tells the referee he doesn’t want to quit, yelling “NO” at him over and over. He fights to escape, and he manages to overpower the greatest of all time, and the hold breaks. The atmosphere is buzzing in the arena as both men try to make it back up, and it’s The Game who’s up first. He walks across to Flair, who’s only on his knees, and he tries to pull him up, but The Nature Boy takes him by surprise, pulling him in to a SMALL PACKAGE!!! . . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . No!

The Game kicks out and both men make their way back up, still suffering, and it’s Flair who capitalises, taking The King of Kings down to the mat with a DOUBLE ARM SUPLEX!!. . . . . Cheers rally round the HP Pavilion as Flair picks himself back up again and walks in to the corner, then steps through the ropes with Triple H standing back up. The fans cheer as Flair climbs all the way up to the top rope, possibly for the last time in his career.

He watches his opponent get to his feet and turn round, then he jumps off looking to hit the DOUBLE AXE HANDLE!!. . . . . NO! The Game kicks him in the gut and immediately pulls his head between his legs, then drills him with another PEDIGREE!!!. . . . . It could be all over. Flair’s motionless and The King of Kings turns him on to his back, shimmies forward and hooks the leg as the referee rushes round and down to his knees to make the count. . . . .

1 . . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES! IT’S OVER!


Winner: Triple H by pinfall @ 21:48.

Aftermath: “King of Kings” plays to heat inside the arena with Triple H standing up to get his arm raised in victory, ending the career of ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair for good. The Game’s hand drops and he looks down at the bloodied Flair, smirking as he then looks up in to the crowd. He throws his arms up in to the air, getting even more heat before turning round and leaving the ring as Flair comes round. The King of Kings walks up the ramp and doesn’t turn back as The Nature Boy slowly stands up to a huge ovation.

The Game’s music cuts as the tears run down Flair’s cheeks, holding his hand up to salute the appreciative crowd. The tears continue to flow, as do the cheers as JR, DiBiase, Cole & Striker, Lilian Garcia & Justin Roberts all stand up along with the Spanish announce team, whose table remains intact to show their appreciation, applauding The Nature Boy. Flair claps them and the fans as the curtain comes down on his career and this year’s SummerSlam.


{End of Show}


:ns Don’t be an Idiot – Don’t Post Spoilers!



 
#1,462 ·
WWE Unforgiven
Sunday September 21st 2008
Live from the Cow Palace
San Francisco, California




*Opening Video*
“Rock Out” by Motorhead
Image: The Big Show accidentally knocking J.B.L. out with the knockout punch in the Elimination Chamber at SummerSlam after Rey Mysterio ducked, causing J.B.L. to be eliminated from the WWE Championship match.

Narrator: Some actions justify forgiveness.

Image: The Corporation entering the steel cage on Raw during The Big Show’s match with Ted DiBiase Jr, leaving him & Justin Gabriel flat on their backs.

Narrator: Some actions justify retribution.

Image: Justin Gabriel beating J.B.L. on Raw with the 450 splash after a knockout punch from The Big Show.

Narrator: On occasion, retribution brings ecstasy. . .

Image: Justin Gabriel hitting the 450 on Vince McMahon last Monday night on Raw, much to the anger of Shane McMahon & J.B.L.

Narrator: . . . and it can also cause embarrassment.

Image: Randy Orton winning the battle royal to become the number one contender for the WWE Championship the night after SummerSlam, eliminating John Cena to do so.

Narrator: For there are many who seek retribution whatever the cost.

Image: Triple H demanding the right to be added to the WWE Championship match.

Narrator: Then there are those who seek the impossible. . .

Image: Batista & Triple H going at it at ringside after The Game’s count out defeat to Randy Orton.

Narrator: . . . and will act without conscience and regret.

Image: Triple H jumping Batista before The Animal’s scheduled match with Ted DiBiase, firing him in to the barricade and then being attacked by Randy Orton & Darren Young, concluding with a punt to The Game’s head.

Narrator: There will be retribution.

Image: Randy Orton slipping in the ring behind Batista on Raw last week after The Animal’s victory over Darren Young, leading to an RKO and him standing over the WWE Champion.

Narrator: For on this night, they will be un-for-given.


*Cut to the Arena*


***Pyro***
***Pyro***
***Pyro***


Jim Ross:
Welcome ev’ryone to Unf’-given, live from the sold out Cow Palace in San Francisco, California, where t’night we will see Batista defend the W-W-E Championship against his former Evolution team-mate, Randy Orton. . . Joining me as ever is Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler, an’ King, we’re in f’ a great night t’night aren’t we?

Jerry Lawler: Oh we sure are J-R. There’s so much t’ look forward to. Like you just said, we’re gonna see Batista and Randy Orton go at it for the W-W-E Championship, but we’re also gonna see The Big Show and his rookie, Justin Gabriel take on the entire Corporation in a three on two handicap match. That’s going t’ be something J-R, and I’m sure Mister McMahon’s not going to be happy after being on the receiving end of the four fifty (450) splash last Monday night let me tell ya.

Jim Ross: Oh absolutely not. He won’t be the only one. I’m sure Shane an’ J-B-L will be out for revenge too, an’ don’t f’get King that it’s less than two weeks since Show’s rookie beat him too on his debut. But from what I’ve seen of this young South African, he an’ Show might not have the disadvantage ev’ryone thinks they do going in t’ their match t’night.

Jerry Lawler: Oh I agree J-R. Gabriel’s been nothing short of impressive, and he’s got guts too, which reminds me of The Miz and the lack of them as far as he’s concerned. I sure hope that he gets what’s comin’ to ‘im after what he did t’ Matt Cappotelli Monday night.

Jim Ross: That was one of the most despicable things I’ve seen in my long career, an’ like you King, there’s nothing I’d like more than t’ see John Morrison beat the holy hell out of Mister Hollywood t’night. . . Let me tell you folks, there’s so much t’ look forward to like King said. We’re going to witness the first ever Celtic Brawl right here t’night in addition to the contr’versial SummerSlam rematch between Kofi Kingston an’ Ted DiBiase for the Intercontinental Championship. You’re in f’ a great show folks, that’s f’ sure.


*The Opening Match*



World Tag Team Championship Tournament – First Round Match
Matt Hardy & Gregory Helms w/Shannon Moore vs. Cody Rhodes & Joe Hennig w/The Bella Twins

Last 10+ Minutes:
Full of momentum & confidence, the impressive Hennig pulls the weary looking Matt Hardy up from his knees and fires him in to the ropes. He ducks his head as Matt comes back at him and kicks him full in the face. The fans are cheering and Hennig’s head snaps back up with Matt taking full advantage, spinning his opponent round and hitting a sit-out crucifix power bomb. Matt shifts around on the mat, trying hard to make the cover, and he gets in position to hook Hennig’s left leg with the referee dropping to his knees to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

No! Hennig gets the shoulder up, and Matt’s not all that shocked. He goes right back to work, standing up and bringing Joe up with him, helping him up from his knees. He tries to whip him in to the corner but Hennig reverses it and runs in at him, nailing him with a clothesline. Joe steps up on to the second rope and hammers away at Matt, pummelling him with a series of right hands. All of a sudden, Hardy comes to life and hits him in the stomach with his right hand. Hennig’s stunned and Matt grabs him by both legs, then carries him out of the corner above his head before planting him with a SIT DOWN POWER BOMB!!. . . . . The crowd erupts again as Matt holds on for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Hennig kicks out, kicking his boot back, brushing it against the side of Matt’s face. Cody’s relieved and shouts at words of encouragement for his partner & rookie as Matt makes his way back up. Hennig’s clearly suffering as he sits up gingerly, but he gets a helping hand from Matt. Hardy fires him in to the ropes and runs at him as he comes back, nailing him with a flying clothesline. The fans cheer again as both men make their way up to their feet with Matt all fired up and waiting for his opponent.

Hardy pounces on him straight away, grabbing Hennig by the arm and whipping him in to the ropes. Cody’s rookie comes flying back though and surprises everyone, especially Matt with a baseball slide. Matt turns round as quickly as he can as Hennig shoots up to his feet, lifts Matt off his and connects with a BONE CRUNCHING BACKBREAKER!! Hennig throws himself across on top of Matt for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

NO! Matt lifts his shoulder off the canvas, leaving Cody stunned on the apron. Helms tries to get the crowd going to support Matt, as does Moore on the outside. Hennig sits up looking very frustrated as Matt rolls on to his side. Cody calls for a tag from his rookie, and Hennig obliges. He stands up and walks over to his partner to tag him in as Matt’s trying to get to his knees. Cody races in to the ring and goes right after Matt. He grabs him by the legs and tries to pull him back, but Matt turns himself over on to his back and pushes Cody back, down to the mat.

Cheers break out as Matt turns back over and crawls across towards his partner with Cody panicking, trying to get up as quick as he can. Helms is bursting at the seams, leaning over the ropes as Matt dives up to make the tag, setting off a big pop. Helms flies through the ropes with the fans still cheering, giving the stunned Cody no time to react or to defend himself. Helms catches him with a clothesline, and then another, leaving Cody reeling. Rhodes isn’t giving up and gets right back up, walking right in to a spinning heel kick from the pumped up Helms.

He’s not stopping there and drags Cody back up, lifting him on to his shoulder, seemingly for the TOP SPIN FACE BUSTER!!!. . . . . Cody fights it though by driving his elbow back in to Helms’ head & neck. Cody fights his way down to safety, worrying Helms, who turns round in to a STANDING DROPKICK FROM RHODES!. . . . . Cody caught him full in the face, but he’s not going for a cover. He stands back up and heads to the apron, stepping through the ropes and climbing up to the dizzy heights of the top rope.

Cody’s smiling & looking confident with Helms squirming several feet away from him. Cody turns round, gets his balance and jumps up off the ropes looking to connect with a MOONSAULT!!. . . . . NO! HELMS ROLLS TO SAFETY, CLOSER TO THE ROPES AS CODY CRASH LANDS ON THE MAT TO THE DELIGHT OF THE CROWD!. . . . . Hennig shows concern for his partner, and the Bellas are looking worried too as Helms uses the ropes to help get back up.

He steps through the ropes on to the apron as Cody tries to get up too. The fans encourage Helms as he climbs up to the top rope, very focused on the job in hand as Cody, still hurt, turns round to see Helms jumping off the top for a frog splash in to a cross body. He forces Cody back & down to the mat with the fans cheering. Helms is feeling it and gets right back up with Cody struggling. Helms looks over at Cody, who’s trying to sit up.

Helms has his game face on and his sights set on Cody, then runs at him, nailing him with the SHINING WIZARD!!. . . . . Cody falls back in a heap. His lights are out, well & truly. Helms scurries across the mat, rushing to cover him, turning him on to his back, pushing him closer to the ropes before hooking his nearest leg for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

No! Cody just about manages to get his foot on the rope, leaving Helms stunned. He sits up in shock and looks at the referee, who points it out. Helms looks round and sees Cody’s foot on the rope staring right back at him. Hennig is smirking, winding up the crowd as Helms shrugs off the disappointment and makes his way back up. He looks down at the starry eyed Cody and drags him back up, lifting him up on to his shoulders for the TOP SPIN FACE BUSTER AGAIN!!!. . . . . Cody’s in serious trouble, and he’s not fighting back this time, worrying his rookie. Hennig panics big time and steps through the ropes, catching both Helms’ and the referee’s attention.

Helms isn’t happy and drops Cody down somewhat gently. He walks over to Hennig and gets right in his face, but the referee takes charge and gets Hennig to get back on the apron. Helms backs down, still staring angrily at Hennig, but as he turns round, Cody is back on his feet. Rhodes wastes no time in ducking his head to lift Helms off his feet and slam him down to the mat courtesy of the ALABAMA SLAM!!. . . . . Helms got planted and Cody’s not wasting a second. He drops to his knees and makes the cover with the ref rushing across to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

No! Helms gets his shoulder up, not leaving Cody at all happy. He leans back on to his knees and shakes his head. Hennig wants back in, and Cody has no problem in tagging his rookie back in to the match. Hennig is looking very determined as he walks coolly towards Helms. He reaches down and drags him up to his feet before quickly whipping him hard in to the corner. Helms’ back hits them hard and Hennig’s not in the mood to mess about now.

He runs in at him and connects with a BIG SPLASH!. . . . . He backs out with the groggy Helms staggering out in to his clutches. The rookie grabs him around the waist and quickly plants him with a BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX!!. . . . . Helms is flat on his back again. He’s squirming but Hennig still shifts round and makes a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

Helms gets the shoulder up, much to the annoyance of Hennig & Rhodes. Matt’s relieved and shows support for his partner, trying to encourage him. The fans get behind him too, clapping as Hennig stands up calmly, watching Helms closely as he struggles to get up. Hennig gives him a helping hand, pulling him in to the centre of the ring before setting him up for the PERFECT PLEX!!!. . . . . He holds on to Helms’ leg and looks in to the crowd and then at his rookie with a smile on his face. He tries to lift Helms, but it’s blocked. Hennig looks stunned and gets angry real quick.

Helms tries for a suplex of his own, but Hennig holds firm. He lets go of Helms’ leg and lifts him up vertically in to the air and drops him forward on his chest for a release front suplex. Hennig’s really agitated, not satisfied with that and drags Helms back up again. He’s not showing off this time and wastes no time in taking Helms down with a JAW BREAKER!!. . . . . Helms isn’t moving and Hennig wants this over & done with. He hooks both his legs with the ref dropping to his knees to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

Shoulder up! Hennig is stunned. He stares right at the referee, and the two count is reinforced for his benefit, not that he’s grateful. Cody’s fired up too on the apron and can sense victory could be near. He reaches out his arm and shouts across at his rookie. Joe looks up and sees his mentor there. He gives Cody what he wants with Matt looking concerned for his friend & tag team partner as Hennig tags in the cocky Cody.

Rhodes walks across the mat as Helms shows some signs of life, trying to sit up. Cody helps him up, but slams him right back down again with a snap scoop slam. The second generation superstar is smirking as he backs up in to the ropes and comes back at Helms, then looks to drop a pointed knee. No! Helms rolls to the side and Cody’s knee hits the mat instead, resulting in a pop from the crowd. Helms is clearly in pain as he struggles up on to his knees.

Cody doesn’t look happy and stares furiously at his opponent as he makes his own way back up. Rhodes throws a wild right hand at him, but Helms ducks. He leans back as Cody turns round, then explodes with a SUPER KICK!!. . . . . NO! CODY DUCKS THIS TIME AND GRABS HELMS RIGHT AWAY TO TAKE HIM DOWN WITH A RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP!!. . . . . Helms is down again and Cody turns over to cover him. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

Again Helms gets his shoulder up! Cody can’t believe it as he leans back and glares across at the referee, then down at Helms. Matt shakes his head in disbelief, surprised himself at his partner’s resilience. Cody’s had enough and jumps up to his feet. He locks his eyes on Helms, who slowly struggles up to his feet with Cody urging him, getting ready to explode. Helms is totally unaware of the trouble that awaits him, and Cody’s right on him, setting him up for the CROSS RHODES!!!. . . . .

Cody has him in place and wants the crowd to know it, feeling this is it, but Helms carries on fighting. He slips round the back of his shocked opponent and Cody turns round immediately. He’s met by a kick to the gut, followed up by a NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX!!. . . . . With Helms holding on for the cover, the ref makes a count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

No! Cody kicks out, and this time Helms is on the wrong end of a two count. Both men fight through the pain to make their way back up, but it’s still Helms who looks worse off. He’s up first though and heads to the corner. He pulls himself up to the second rope with Cody almost back up a few feet away from him. Cody’s got his back to him and Helms gives it everything to plant him with the OVERCAST (DIVING NECK BREAKER)!!!. . . . . Rhodes lands flat on his face and it looks like as he’s out of it. Helms thinks so too, breathing heavily as he shifts round and turns Cody over on to his back with one arm. He reaches across, moving slowly himself as he reaches across, stretching it out over Cody’s chest for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO! The seemingly lifeless Cody surprises us all by lifting his shoulder up. Helms lifts his head up looking incredibly disappointed, and Hennig is one relieved man. The Bellas are too, not that they’re men though. The crowd will Helms on as he turns himself round on the mat and drags himself towards his corner. Matt too is encouraging him, chomping at the bit to get back in the action. Cody’s coming round as Helms jumps up and tags Matt to a huge roar inside the Cow Palace.

Hardy climbs up to the top rope instead of getting in the ring. He’s willing Cody to get up, and as he gets to his feet, clearly not knowing where he is, Matt jumps off and connects with a MISSILE DROPKICK!. . . . . The fans cheer as Matt stands right back up and drags Cody up with him, whipping him with force in to the corner. He doesn’t wait around to run in at him, levelling him with a clothesline across the upper torso. He grabs hold of Cody’s head and turns round right away, then charges out of the corner to plant him with a bulldog.

Rhodes is in a bad way, he’s not moving a muscle as Matt stands up and runs in to Cody’s corner, knocking Hennig down with a right hand to a big pop before hopping up on to the second rope. Cody’s flat on his face as Matt then jumps off and connects with a DIVING LEG DROP TO THE BACK OF THE HEAD!!. . . . . The fans think it’s over, and Matt wastes no time in shifting round and turning Cody on to his back. He hooks the leg, holding on with desperation as the referee rushes across the mat and drops to his knees to count the fall. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

No! Matt looks gutted as he sits up and looks over at the referee. Helms tries to warn him for some reason, and then we see Hennig getting back in the ring. He runs towards Matt as he’s getting up, and Hardy reacts quickly to duck under a wild clothesline attempt. Hennig turns round in to a SIDE EFFECT!!. . . . . Cheers echo around the arena as Matt watches Hennig roll on to the apron with the Bellas rushing towards him.

Matt turns his attention back to Cody, and Rhodes is suffering & struggling to make it up. Matt’s in the groove, getting ready to put the match to bed with the crowd rising to their feet. Cody turns round, all glazed over in to a kick to the gut, followed up by the TWIST OF FATE!!!. . . . . It’s deafening in the Cow Palace and Matt shimmies round, turns Cody over and hooks both legs for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!


Winners: Matt Hardy & Gregory Helms by pinfall.

Aftermath: “Live for the Moment” blasts out to a huge pop as Helms rushes in to the ring to join his partner. They get their arms raised by the ref with he crowd still cheering, and Moore joins them too. They all celebrate together, posing for the fans by the ropes as Hennig sits up on the apron looking very disappointed, as are Brie & *****. Cody tries to lift his head up, not knowing what’s just happened as the North Carolina natives enjoy their success in front of the cheering fans with their place booked in the semi finals of the tag team title tournament.


*Cut Backstage*


A very relaxed Eric Bischoff is slumped back on an expensive looking black leather sofa in his office when the door opens and Smackdown’s General Manager, Tazz walks in. Bischoff looks very surprised to see him and stands up to greet his guest, who’s dressed more casually than normal. He’s wearing jeans, a T-shirt and a black leather jacket.


Tazz: Hey, how’s it goin’ Eric?

The Smackdown General Manager extends his hand to the confused Raw Head of Authority, and Bischoff shakes it, still puzzled by Tazz’s presence.

Eric Bischoff: Well this is a surprise. What are you doing here? You come to see how the A show does things, or do you often spend your weekends in Fr'isco?

Tazz: Y’ got me. Don’t tell the wife though ‘ey?!

Eric Bischoff: Now come on, seriously, what brings you here?

Tazz: Well t’ be honest a couple o’ things. We’ve got No Mercy comin’ up in a few weeks an’ I thought I’d come check out the competition. That an’ the small matter of findin’ out what John Cena’s gotta say t’night.

Eric Bischoff: Of course. I should’ve known. Well I think there’s a fair few people who are quite eager to find out what he plans t’ say, but since you’re here and you’ve got No Mercy coming up, maybe you’d like to stick around and see how the A show operates.

Tazz: That’s a kind offer dog, an’ yeah I’d love t’ stick around an’ see what your guys ‘ave got.

Eric Bischoff: Great, well take a seat and we’ll show you how it’s done.

Tazz: Sure thing boss.

Bischoff smiles and both men park their behinds on the sofa, getting comfy and sharing a few laughs.


*Cut Backstage*


Leticia Cline
, looking particularly hot tonight is standing outside of John Morrison’s locker room with her trusty microphone and knocks on the door. The Women’s Champion, Melina opens it up to Leticia’s slight surprise, and we can see John Morrison is getting ready, sat down on the bench with a face like thunder as he laces up his boots.


Melina: Hey Leticia, what’s up?

Leticia Cline: Hi Melina, I was actually hoping to have a quick word with John about his match with The Miz tonight.

Melina: He’s just getting ready, but he’s not really in the mood for talking right now if you know what I mean.

The very serious looking Morrison lifts his head up and looks over at them, then stands up and walks over to them, and they both look a bit wary of his mood.

John Morrison: What’s going on?

Melina: Leticia wants to know if you’ve got time to talk about your match with you know who later on.

John Morrison: Really?

Leticia Cline: Yeh. That's if it's okay with you John.

John Morrison: Well as it goes, there are a few things I’d like to get off my chest. In fact I can honestly say that I’ve never looked forward to a match as much as this in my whole career, even more than SummerSlam. I can’t wait to get my hands on The Miz after ev’ry single despicable word that’s come out of his mouth week after week. Words can’t describe what I want to do to him tonight, and despite ev’rything he’s said about Matt, what he did on Raw last week was beyond sick even f’ him. It’s about time he gets what’s coming to him, and I can’t think of anyone better to make him pay for ev’rything he’s said and done to my best friend. That Leticia is what I’m going t’ do t’night. With no disqualifications, there’s nothing holding me back. . . nothing. I can do whatever I want to him, and believe me there’s nothing I won’t do when I get in that ring t’night. And if that rookie of his, Slater sticks his nose where it doesn’t belong me, I’ll make sure he wishes he hadn’t. And as much as I’m looking forward to t’night, I’m not just doing this f’ me, I’m doing it for someone else too. I’m doing this for you too Matt. I’m not going to let you down, and Miz. You better get ready for a war, because that’s what you’re going t’ get.

Morrison stares intensely in to the camera for a second before going back to where he was sitting before with the camera zooming in on his focused face.


*Cut to the Arena*


*Match #2*



Celtic Brawl
Finlay vs. Sheamus

Last 10+ Minutes:
Sheamus is in charge and he knows it. Finlay is struggling to make it up on to one knee, but The Celtic Warrior gives him a helping hand. He reaches down to scoop Finlay up on to his shoulder and back tracks in to the corner. It’s clear what he’s got in mind, smirking for the crowd before running across the ring, all set to hit the running powerslam, but Finlay slips to safety down Sheamus’s back and shoves him in to the turnbuckle pads.

Sheamus’s chest crashes in to the pads and the fans cheer, giving Finlay the chance to take a much needed breath. The rattled Sheamus turns round, right in to a short am clothesline. Finlay’s back in the game and he means business, watching Sheamus pick himself back up. The Belfast born veteran isn’t letting up and goes right after him, grabbing him by the head and taking him down with a snapmare.

He’s not done there and drives his knee in to the back of the seated Sheamus. That hurts the big man. It’s written all over his face as he rocks back & forth, trying to sit up. Finlay’s not satisfied and runs past him in to the ropes, hits them and runs at Sheamus, driving his boot right down his throat. The Celtic Warrior falls back and Finlay drops to his knees to make a cover, hooking the leg. The ref runs across, dropping to his knees in order to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Kick out! Sheamus sits up right away, clearly suffering. Finlay’s not wasting any time and stands up, bringing Sheamus up with him. He sets him up for a gut-wrench suplex, but as he lifts Sheamus on to his shoulder, the Irish Republican fights it immediately. He swings his elbow in to the side of his opponent’s head, finding his way to safety down Finlay’s back. Finlay’s shaken by that and Sheamus takes advantage, grabbing him by the wrist and firing him in to the ropes.

Finlay comes running back right in to the CELTIC WAR SWORD (Discus Double Axe Handle)!. . . . . Finlay falls to the mat, but he’s not intending to stay down there for long, clawing his way back up right away. Sheamus is like a man possessed, glaring intently at his opponent as he makes his way back up. Finlay stands up, not looking too disorientated at all, but as he turns round, Sheamus runs at him and sends him right back down with a RUNNING KNEE SMASH RIGHT TO THE FACE!. . . . .

Finlay’s sent down to the canvas, and he looks dazed this time, not that it keeps him down. He crawls across to the ropes in front of the announce tables with Sheamus’s eyes locked on him. He’s nearly salivating as Finlay uses the ropes to help him get back up, and as he turns round, Sheamus charges at him, and Finlay reacts in the spur of the moment to duck down and pull the top rope down too. Sheamus can’t put the brakes on and he goes tumbling over the ropes and down to the floor, met by a big pop from the San Francisco crowd.

Finlay stands back up looking like a relieved man, not breaking a smile though as he stares down at the fallen Celtic Warrior. Finlay can see him sitting up, and the veteran joins him on the outside, slipping under the bottom rope. He walks over to Sheamus fully focused and pulls him up from his knees, holding on to him by the arm and FIRING HIM WITH FORCE IN TO THE STEEL STEPS!!. . . . . It creates a deafening thud inside the Cow Palace, followed by a cheer from the fans.

Finlay’s still not smiling or satisfied, and he turns round, seemingly looking for something. He spots it and walks over to the timekeeper’s table, where he grabs a steel chair and folds it up without even thinking about it. The crowd are cheering as Finlay turns round and sees Sheamus attempting to get up by the steps. He’s not in great shape, but Finlay’s not done. He walks slowly towards his rival, keeping a few feet away as he prepares to take his head off with the chair, and the preoccupied Sheamus hasn’t a clue.

Side on to Finlay, he rests his hands on the steps to get his balance. Now he turns round and FINLAY GOES FOR HIM WITH THE CHAIR SWINGING IT AT HIM, BUT SHEAMUS DUCKS AND THE CHAIR HITS THE RINGPOST!. . . . . Finlay panics as Sheamus runs through to the timekeeper’s table. Finlay turns round and goes after him, and he walks right in to Sheamus turning round and NAILING HIM WITH THE BELL!!!. . . . . Finlay just falls flat backwards with the chair dropping to the floor with him.

Sheamus drops the bell too, looking very relieved. A sick smiles appears on his face as he then looks in to the crowd, who throw a ton of heat in his direction. It doesn’t bother him at all, and The Celtic Warrior looks around ringside at all the weapons left there for them to use on each other. It looks like he’s spotted something he likes and he walks across to the security wall where there’s a table leaning against it. Sheamus stops & smirks at the crowd before picking it up and sliding it in to the ring.

Finlay is slowly coming round, lifting his head off the floor, and the lights definitely aren’t on right now. Sheamus turns his attention back to him, but he also sees a shopping trolley (or a fucking cart or whatever you Johnny Foreigners call it) he likes the look of. With Finlay on all fours, the sick smiles re-emerges on Sheamus’s face, and he turns back to get the trolley. The fans are looking worried now for Finlay as Sheamus gets ready for what could be a drag race, only it’s just him, Finlay and a trolley!

The veteran has no idea what’s coming as he struggles to make it back up, and Sheamus is ready to explode, calling out for him to get up. Just as Finlay makes it up, SHEAMUS RUNS AT HIM WITH THE TROLLEY AND MOWS HIM DOWN!!!. . . . . Finlay’s feet are lifted off the floor and he falls awkwardly on his side, much to the sadistic satisfaction of The Celtic Warrior. Sheamus, grinning like mad, shoves the trolley backwards to go over and cover Finlay, hooking both legs looking very confident as the ref counts Finlay’s shoulders. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

No! Finlay gets his shoulder up, absolutely astounding Sheamus. He sits up and looks at the referee, then down at Finlay, and the veteran is stirring. Sheamus can’t believe it. His jaw has well & truly dropped. Finlay’s eyes are flickering and he tries to set up, and Sheamus snaps. He shakes his head and stands back up, staring at his opponent the whole time. He takes several steps back and urges the battered Northern Ireland veteran to get up, and he does slowly, looking in a bad way.

Sheamus’s face is getting redder & redder by the second. He’s getting so agitated, and as Finlay gets up, he runs right at him, GOING FOR THE BROGUE KICK!!!. . . . . NO! FINLAY DUCKS AND DROP TOE HOLDS HIM ON TO THE STEPS!!. . . . . Cheers ring out as Sheamus’s head hits the solid steel, and Finlay stays where he is on the floor, taking some much needed recovery time. Both men are obviously struggling physically as they try to get to their feet, but Finlay has other things on his mind.

He looks under the apron for some more weapons of mass destruction, and he pulls out a fire extinguisher as Sheamus picks himself up just a matter of feet away from him. The Celtic Warrior is completely oblivious, and he turns round with a look of evil intent on his face. Finlay stands up and catches him off guard, SQUIRTING THE FOAM IN TO SHEAMUS’S FACE!!!. . . . . There’s a big cheer echoing around the arena as Sheamus fails to block it, flapping his arms around.

Finlay now holds the base of the extinguisher as well as the top of the tank and drives it in to Sheamus’s gut. The Celtic Warrior is winded and leans forward, and Finlay quickly drops the extinguisher to drill Sheamus’s head in to the padded floor with a single arm DDT!!!. . . . . . Sheamus looks like he could be out for the count, and Finlay puts it to the test, turning him over on to his back and hooking the leg for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

NO! Sheamus just about gets his shoulder up, and the sighs of disappointment coming from the crowd tell us just how disappointed they are. Finlay’s not showing much emotion other than determination to get the job done. He’s so focused as he stands up and reaches down to bring Sheamus with him. He rolls him back in the ring under the bottom rope and joins him, sliding in there too, and he’s quickly distracted by something.

The table Sheamus slipped in there earlier catches his attention, and with Sheamus attempting to make his way back up, Finlay goes for the table. He picks it up off the mat and stands it up in the corner against the turnbuckle pads, and the fans love it. The veteran turns round and walks over to Sheamus, who’s almost back on his feet. Finlay doesn’t give him any help and stomps him hard in the gut, just where he nailed him with the extinguisher.

He’s not done and grabs his arm, then fires him towards the corner and the table, but SHEAMUS REVERSES IT AND FINLAY IS SENT CRASHING THROUGH THE TABLE!!!. . . . . Sheamus is in no position to take advantage just yet as he remains on one knee after the momentum took him there. Finlay is hurting, lying on top of half a broken table with the other half falling on and around him. The Celtic Warrior crawls across on his knees, showing just how hurt he is, and he drags Finlay away from the wreckage before hooking his leg and making a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

NO! Finlay gets his shoulder up, infuriating Finlay but delighting the crowd. Sheamus sits up looking totally frustrated and at a loss what to do next. He sits there watching his battle scarred opponent roll on to his side, trying to find his way back up. Sheamus can’t believe it and just stares furiously at him. He stands up and pulls Finlay up too, then whips him hard in to the ropes, and as Finlay comes running back, Sheamus stomps him hard in the gut.

Finlay slumps forward and The Celtic Warrior lifts him off his feet with one arm, then drives Finlay’s back down on to his knee for THE IRISH CURSE (SIDE SLAM BACK BREAKER)!!. . . . . That’s done some damage, and Finlay falls to the deck in a heap, and Sheamus is right down on top of him, desperately making a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

NO! Again Finlay just kicks out to the relief of the cheering crowd. Sheamus sits up and he looks like he’s had enough. He stares down in disgust & contempt at his opponent, and this time Finlay’s not trying to get up. He can’t, but the sadistic Sheamus drags him back up with him and grabs him by the throat. Finlay can’t fight back and Sheamus knows it, staring in to the crowd before lifting him off the mat with the one hand and planting him with the FIERY RED HAND (CHOKESLAM POWERBOMB)!!!. . . . .

Sheamus doesn’t cover him and just stares at him lying there, eyes shut. The Celtic Warrior enjoys seeing his rival in the position he is, utterly helpless. The sick grin is back, and he grabs holds of Finlay’s head on his way back up, bringing him with him. He back pedals towards the corner and places Finlay’s head between his legs, setting him up for the HIGH CROSS!!!. . . . . The end could well be near, and Sheamus thinks it may just be.

The crowd look & sound desperately worried, and Sheamus gives them more reason to be as he lifts Finlay high up above his head, but Finlay comes to life. There’s still some fight left in him and he starts to wriggle around up there, and he drops down on to his feet, landing on the mat. Sheamus is stunned and turns around in a flash, and so does as Finlay on his knees to low blow The Celtic Warrior.

Sheamus falls in a heap to a big pop as the smirking Finlay breathes a sigh of relief on his knees. He then turns his head and his eyes light up. He can see his shillelagh lying on the apron, and he slowly stands up and makes his way across the ring to get at it as the winded Sheamus rolls around with a face like thunder. Finlay’s cheered as he reaches down and picks up the shillelagh, and he turns back to see Sheamus clawing his way back up, and he has no idea how much danger he’s in.

The Celtic Warrior makes it up with the intense Finlay lying in wait, and as Sheamus turns round, Finlay runs right at him with the shillelagh raised. Sheamus sees him coming and ducks his head. Finlay can’t put the brakes on straight away, and as soon as he does, he turns round and runs at Sheamus again. . . . . BOOM! BROGUE KICK FROM SHEAMUS!!!. . . . . Trouble! Big time trouble for Finlay! Sheamus falls on to one knee but can’t help look down with a big grin on his face.

He knows he’s in a good place now. He stands back up and drags the helpless Finlay up with him, heading back in to the corner once again for the HIGH CROSS!!!. . . . . There’s no sign of resistance from Finlay, and Sheamus comfortably lifts him up in to the sky, then runs out of the corner and TOSSES FINLAY DOWN CRASHING IN TO THE CANVAS!!!. . . . . It has to be all over now, and Sheamus thinks it is. Even the crowd look defeated as Sheamus crawls across on his hands & knees to make the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!


Winner: Sheamus by pinfall.

Aftermath: “Written in my Face” plays to heat from the crowd and Sheamus slowly stands back up, still looking delicate before getting his arm raised, and he certainly looks pleased with himself. He takes a look down at Finlay just lying there, amusing The Celtic Warrior very much. He throws both his arms up in to the air, delighted with his big victory, still grinning smugly.

He then turns his back on the ring and makes his way back up the ramp, stopping at the top of to turn around and throw his arms up again, much to the disgust of the San Francisco crowd. Sheamus doesn’t care and laughs it off as he turns round and heads to the back while Finlay tries to sit up in the ring, looking like he’s just been involved in a war.


*Cut Backstage*


A very laid back and smug looking Heath Slater is walking through the halls with a bottle of water in his hand. He stops at a locker room door and walks in, and there is his mentor, The Miz, already dressed to compete. Mr. Hollywood is looking very relaxed indeed and is handed the bottle of water.


Heath Slater: There you go my man.

The Miz: Thanks.

The Miz takes a quick gulp from the bottle.

The Miz: Y’know Heath, t’night’s going to be a good lesson for you. You’ll get t’ see me take John Morrison apart just like I did the poor, unfortunate Matt Cappotelli last Monday night. It’s going to be the perfect performance, and I’m going to make that jealous Monday Night Bore eat ev’ry single word when he said I had no talent or desire to make it in this business. And if he thinks I was ruthless on Raw, he’s in for a shock t’night. And when I’m finished with him, he can go lie next to Cappotelli in his own hospital bed.

Heath Slater: Right on.

The Miz: T’night Heath is going t’ be. . . Well there’s only one word I can think of t’ describe what t’night’s going t’ be, and that my friend is straight up awe-some.

Heath Slater: No doubt.

Slater laughs, as does The Miz as the camera fades out with them both laughing away.


*Video Promo*



>2 Weeks!<


*Cut to the Arena*


*Match #3*



Rey Mysterio w/Mystico vs. Zack Ryder

Last 10+ Minutes:
Breathing heavily & looking a little worse for ware, Mysterio gets back up to his feet with Ryder doing the same, not looking in the best of shape either. Rey watches Ryder closely and the determination increases. It’s written all over his face as he stares at the groggy Ryder and runs past him in to the ropes, jumps on to the second rope for a springboard. Ryder looks on in shock and has no time to react as the Mexican high flyer lands on his chest, forces him back down to the mat courtesy of a reverse cross-body and holds on for a cover with the ref dropping to his knees in a hurry to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! Ryder gets his shoulder up convincingly. Both men are clearly sore but still make their way back up as quickly as they can. They’re both fired up and Rey drives his boot towards Ryder’s stomach, but Ryder grabs it. He doesn’t mess around, quickly letting go and spinning the cruiserweight round in a spin. Ryder nails him with a right hand, knocking Rey off balance and follows it up with an irish whip.

He ducks his head as Rey hits the ropes, and Rey comes flying back at him with a sunset flip, met by a huge pop, but Ryder counters and doesn’t let Rey seal the deal. He grabs both of Rey’s legs and holds on to them with desperation as the ref rushes across to count Mysterio’s shoulders. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! Rey kicks off in time, making Mystico breathe a sigh of relief on the outside, but Ryder’s not happy at all. He thought he had him there and doesn’t waste a second in getting back up, looking angrily towards Rey as the Mexican rolls on to one knee. Ryder sees red and drags him up to his knees, but he catches everyone off guard by turning towards the corner, holding on to Rey by the back of the neck & Rey’s pants.

With a look of fury on his face, he runs in to the corner and fires Mysterio forward in to the ring-post shoulder first. The fans wince as Rey’s shoulder is driven right in to the steel post, but Ryder doesn’t seem satisfied at all. He just stares sadistically at Rey for a second, then drags him away. Mysterio’s helpless on the mat, and Ryder knows it. He kneels down and turns him on to his back, then goes for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

Rey bravely lifts his shoulder up off the mat to frustrate Ryder even more. He just sits up and stares down with pure anger at Rey. Not for long though! He sits Rey up and applies a chin-lock, really putting pressure on his opponent. Ryder stares disapprovingly at the crowd as they encourage Mysterio, and their support begins to help him. He tries to make his way up to his feet, worrying Ryder. He tries to hold on for dear life, but Rey fights the hold, swinging his elbow in to his opponent’s midriff. He drives his elbow back again, fighting his way to safety. Ryder’s winded and can only watch on as Mysterio runs the ropes and comes flying back to nail him with a spinning wheel kick, sending him down to the mat to a big pop.

Rey picks himself up, breathing heavily still as he makes his way to the apron and steps through the ropes. He’s definitely looking a bit sluggish, and Ryder is clawing his way up to his knees. Rey starts to climb the turnbuckle pads, and as he gets to the top rope with his eyes only on climbing the ropes, Ryder looks up and spots the danger. He panics & reacts very quickly, diving to the side and in to the ropes. Rey falls sharply in to a seated position, looking in agony as you would expect. Ryder smirks as he leans against the ropes at the sight of Rey with the wind blown out of sails sat on the top rope.

The host of Raw takes the chance to get his breath back and laugh at the fans in front of him. He now turns his attention back to Rey and walks towards him, then climbs up to the second rope. Looking very confident, Ryder steps up to the second rope and pulls Rey’s head under his arm, setting him up seemingly for a suplex. Rey’s not fighting back and Ryder connects with A SUPLEX FROM THE SECOND ROPE!!. . . . . Both men’s backs hit the mat with some force, but somehow Ryder’s right as rain and shimmies round to hook Rey’s legs for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

NO!

Mysterio’s in trouble and he looks it. Ryder leans back on to his knees and stares down in frustration at Rey, who rolls on to his side in an attempt to get back up. Ryder lets him and locks his eyes on him as he too makes his way back up. Rey’s looking very unsteady as he tries to stand up, totally unaware of Ryder now gearing up behind him, ready to explode. Rey turns round unwittingly in to a vicious kick to the gut and is whipped in to the corner by Ryder, who doesn’t waste a second in charging in at him.

Rey sees him coming though and reacts quickly enough to lift his boot up in to Ryder’s face, sending him staggering out of the corner in spin. Mysterio pulls himself up to the second rope with Ryder’s back to him. The Mexican jumps off on to his shoulders, taking Ryder by surprise. The surprise doesn’t end there as Mysterio spins round on his shoulders and catches him with a HURRICANRANA, THE MYSTERIO-RANA!!. . . . . The fans are going nuts as Ryder hits the mat with Rey desperately going for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

No! Ryder gets the shoulder up, disappointing the crowd with sighs ringing round the arena. Rey looks gutted too as he sits up and puts his hands to his head. Mystico looks disappointed too in his mentor’s corner, but Rey doesn’t have time to feel sorry for himself as Ryder tries to get back up. It forces Rey to get up too, and Ryder’s not far behind him either. The Ultimate Underdog strikes immediately, nailing the defenceless Raw host with a series of stiff kicks to the body. Ryder slumps forward and Rey levels him with a stiff kick to the side of the head, putting Ryder down on the mat.

Rey looks down and sees that Ryder’s barely moving. His eyes are all over the place. He doesn’t know where he’s at, and Rey wanders on over to the apron, stepping through the ropes again with Ryder slowly clawing his way back up. Rey keeps him firmly in his sights as he stands on the apron, clutching on to the top rope and getting ready to strike. Ryder manages to find his way on to his feet, but as he turns round, Rey springboards & comes out of the sky for a SEATED SENTON!!. . . . . He gets it and takes Ryder down, landing on top of him for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

NO!

Ryder gets the shoulder up again, denying Rey the win there & then. Mysterio’s in the groove now though and hurries back up to his feet. He pulls Ryder up from his knees and tries for an irish whip in to the pads, but wait, Ryder reverses it and Mysterio hits them back first. Ryder takes a second to get his breath back before running in, but Rey steps to the side and Ryder runs in to the pads. Rey takes full advantage, kicking Ryder in the gut and planting him with a SPRINGBOARD DDT!!. . . . . Ryder’s head got drilled in to the canvas and the lights are out for the Raw host as Rey scurries across the mat and hooks the leg for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO! Somehow Ryder gets his shoulder up, and this time even Rey can’t believe it. He looks at the referee in shock as Ryder lifts his head up ever so slightly for a split second. Reluctantly, Mysterio stands up while Ryder remains in deep trouble on the mat. Rey heads to the apron again, and Ryder is barely moving as Rey grabs the top rope and springboards again, coming down through the air for a SPLASH!!. . . . . NO WAIT. RYDER LIFTS HIS KNEES UP IN TO REY’S GUT!. . . . .

Rey rolls across the apron clutching his stomach with Mystico feeling his pain on the outside. Ryder tries to sit up, still dazed from the DDT moments ago. It takes them both a while to get back up, both showing the strain of the contest so far. Ryder’s first up, and as Rey makes it up and turns round, Ryder runs right at him and connects with the ROUGH RYDER!!. . . . . Zack caught him with the leg lariat and Rey’s down for the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO! It’s Mysterio’s turn to get his shoulder up at the count of two, frustrating Ryder. Raw’s host isn’t happy about it one bit and stares down at Rey, then gives the ref a dirty look. Ryder pulls himself back up, and Rey makes it up to his knees. Zack’s fired up now and yells at Rey to get up, and slowly he does. Ryder’s right on him and fires him in to the ropes, but as Rey comes back, he counters Zack with a HEAD SCISSORS TAKE DOWN ON TO THE SECOND ROPE!!. . . . .

The fans are going nuts as Rey gets up to his feet and sees Ryder’s in big trouble. The Master of the 619 dials up and turns back to run the ropes, flies across the ring, swings through the ropes and connects with the 619 TO A HUGE ROAR INSIDE THE COW PALACE!!!. . . . . It sends Ryder back across the mat, still down as Rey stands back up on the apron. He steadies himself as he watches the dazed Ryder struggle to get to a vertical base with the crowd rising to their feet.

Rey’s psyching himself up, and Ryder turns round to face him. Mysterio’s given permission for take off and springboards for the WEST COAST POP!!!. . . . . NO! RYDER KICKS REY IN THE GUT, GRABS HIS HEAD WITH BOTH HANDS, TWISTS HIM ROUND AND TAKES HIM DOWN WITH A NECK BREAKER!!. . . . . Rey’s down & out and the fans are stunned as Ryder scurries round as quick as he can to make a cover, hooking both legs as the ref rushes across to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

Mystico punches the air on the outside as somehow Mysterio lifts his shoulder up to deny the gobsmacked Ryder a shock victory. Raw’s host can’t believe it as he stares at the referee in disbelief. The ref signals the two count again for his benefit, but Ryder doesn’t want to see it. He’s livid and hurries back up to his feet, bringing Rey up with him and pulling him in to place for the Zack Attack. He has Rey lined up and looks in to the crowd, sn-iggering at them believing he has it in the bag.

He hasn’t though and Rey pulls back to Ryder’s amazement. Rey back pedals to the ropes as Ryder turns round and runs at him, right in to a drop toe hold on to the second rope. Ryder’s in troubled territory right now. Mysterio stands up full of determination to seal the deal. He doesn’t dial up this time and runs across the ring to hit the ropes, comes racing back, and for the second time he nails Ryder with the 619!!!. . . . .

The fans are on their feet again as Rey stands up on the apron again with Ryder down & out on the mat. Mysterio steadies himself then SPRINGBOARDS & DROPS THE DIME!!! That should be it and Rey shifts across to cover his opponent, who’s not moving. The ref drops to his knees and counts the fall. . . . .

1. . . . .

2 . . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3!


Winner: Rey Mysterio by pinfall.

Aftermath: “Booyaka 619” hits to a massive cheer inside the Cow Palace as the still hurting Rey stands up to get his arm raised by the referee. Mystico joins his mentor in the ring and congratulates him with a very brief guy hug. Mysterio hits the corner and celebrates, posing for the delighted fans after a hard fought victory.


*Video Promo*

We’re shown a shot of a fired up Kofi Kingston getting ready in his locker room for his Intercontinental Championship rematch with Ted DiBiase Jr later on. He’s sat down pulling his knee pads up in to place, and boy does he have a mean look on his face.


*Cut Backstage*


From a distance, we can see John Cena is talking with JTG & Homicide in the hallway, and just as JTG and his rookie walk away, armed with a microphone, Todd Grisham walks towards him.


Todd Grisham: JOHN!

John Cena: Hey Todd, what’s up?

Cena shakes hands with the T-man.

Todd Grisham: Well John, what I have to ask is very simple. We’re all awaiting the decision you’re all set to announce later on tonight, and after what you said Monday night, it seemed like you weren’t sure as to what that would be. My question is John, have you now made your decision?

John Cena: Y’know this time last week I thought I had my mind made up, I really did. Then Monday night, I had the pleasure of listening to Randy Orton tell me all about how I should pack my bags and leave Raw for my own benefit. And as you know Todd, Randy’s one persuasive guy. I didn’t know what t’ think, and all week I’ve been going back an’ forth on what t’ do, but after thinking ev’rything through, I’ve finally made my decision. . . Later on t’night, I’ll tell ev’ryone out there an’ ev’ryone watching at home around the world what that is. And before you ask Todd, you’ll have t’ wait like ev’ryone else.

Todd Grisham: You can’t even give us the slightest hint?

John Cena: Sorry Todd, like I said, you’re gonna have t’ wait an’ see.

Todd Grisham: Alright, fair enough.

John Cena: I’ll catch y’later man.

Cena walks off in to the night with Grisham watching him wander off.


*Video Recap*

SummerSlam
Last Month

“LISTEN, THIS AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE. . . COME ON, OPEN YOUR EYES AN’ SEE. . .”

John Morrison
hits the stage to a big pop from the California crowd. He then makes his way down to the ring with a big smile on his face, looking very pleased to be here, and as he gets in the ring, he walks over to Lilian Garcia and asks to borrow her microphone. She happily hands it over as Morrison then turns to face the camera and the music cuts.


John Morrison: It’s moments like these that made me want t’ be a W W E superstar, but I’m not the only one. I’m not talking about my opponent t’night, I’m talking about a very special friend of mine, a friend of mine who shared the same dream as me. Those dreams came true at the same time, but unfortunately, that dream was taken away from him. T’night though, I’ve invited him t’ join me in my corner, and I can’t tell you how excited I am t’ have him here with me. You might remember him from season three of Tough Enough where he and I both won W W E contracts. I know him as my good buddy, so please give a warm California welcome to MATT CAPPOTELLI!

Out walks the casually dressed Matt Cappotelli with the fans applauding him as he strolls down to the ring, most unsure of who he is but still being polite while Morrison smiles and claps as he watches his friend make his way down the ramp. He smiles and acknowledges the fans’ by raising his arm as he climbs up the steps and joins Morrison in the ring, then gives him a guy hug.

“AWE-SOME. . . I CAME TO, CAME T’ PLAY, THERE’S A PRICE T’ PAY. . .”

‘Mr. Hollywood’ The Miz
walks out to the stage looking very smug with Morrison & Cappotelli watching on from the ring. The Miz doesn’t look too bothered by Cappotelli’s presence and is even smirking in their direction.


***

John Morrison w/Matt Cappotelli vs. The Miz

Both men get back up as quickly as they can, both looking worn out. Morrison looks to strike first with a ROUNDHOUSE KICK!!. . . . . Miz ducks it and kicks him hard in the gut, throwing Morrison’s upper body forward. He then turns back and runs the ropes, and as he comes charging back, Morrison greets him with a hard stomp to the gut of his own. He then reacts very quickly and connects with the MOONLIGHT DRIVE!!!. . . . . The fans go nuts as The Miz lies motionless on the mat, but Morrison’s not done.

He stands up and drags The Miz’s lifeless body towards the corner, then climbs his way up all the way to the summit. The fans are on their feet as The Monday Night Delight stands on the top rope ready to strike with Mr. Hollywood lying completely helpless beneath him. Morrison then leaps off and comes crashing down on to his opponent. . . . . STARSHIP PAIN!!!. . . . . The lights are out and the crowd count in tandem with the referee as Morrison hooks the leg. . . . . 1. . . . . 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3!

“Ain’t No Make Believe” blasts out and the fans continue to cheer and applaud Morrison as he picks himself back up. Cappotelli joins in the applause as the grinning Monday Night Delight gets his arm raised by the referee, and he then joins him in the ring and nods at him in approval. They walk towards each other and have a brief guy hug before Morrison walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope, then poses for the fans. Matt continues to clap him as The Miz comes round, not looking happy at all.

He clutches his stomach as he turns his head in Morrison’s direction, and he steps down off the ropes and walks back to Cappotelli. They have a little chuckle and then leave the ring in the same mood before turning round on the ramp to see The Miz sitting up, glaring in their direction. Cappotelli then raises his buddy’s arm in the air, and they smile right back at the irate Miz, seemingly amusing both Morrison & Cappotelli as well as the San Jose faithful.


***

Raw
25th August

Leticia Cline is interviewing John Morrison & Matt Cappotelli in the back.


Leticia Cline: John, what’s your reaction to The Miz’s announcement last week that you two will meet again in a rematch from SummerSlam in four weeks at Unf’given?

John Morrison: Well to be honest I was a little surprised at first. I wasn’t expecting him to go ask for a rematch after I beat him at SummerSlam, but the more I thought about it the more it made sense. This is The Miz we’re talking about after all. He’s one of the most deluded people you’ll ever meet. He even called my victory at SummerSlam a fluke. If that’s what he actually thinks then that’s fine, because he’s going to find out at Unf’given that it wasn’t. Then maybe he’ll realise he’s not this big star he seems to think he is.

The Miz walks in to the shot, looking very serious indeed. Morrison & Cappotelli aren’t exactly pleased to see him either.

The Miz: however have a question, not for you John but you Cappotelli. What the hell are you still doing here? Seriously, what business do you have being here huh? Please, I’d love t’ know.

John Morrison: It’s got nothing to do with you.

The Miz: Really? If I remember rightly he was in your corner at SummerSlam. He was a distraction in that fluke of a win, and by the looks of it he’ll be there again at Unf’given doing ev’rything he can t’ help you screw me over again ‘cause you know you can’t beat me by y’self. . . You know you’re only here ‘cause he feels sorry for you an’ ev’rything you’ve been through don’t you Matt? I mean why else would he bring you here?

Matt Cappotelli: You’re a jackass y’know that?

Matt’s disgusted and shrugs his way past The Miz, followed by the also disgusted Morrison. The Miz & Leticia watch them leave, and she gives him a dirty look, confusing The Miz.

The Miz: What?

***

Raw
1st September

“Listen this ain’t no make believe. . .”

Out walk John Morrison & Matt Cappotelli in to the Van Andel Arena to a pop from the Grand Rapids crowd. Both are dressed casually and they don’t seem to be as laid back as they have been in previous weeks, and it looks like they’re trying to put a brave face on it, Morrison especially as they greet the fans. As they enter the ring, Morrison picks a microphone up off the apron and his music stops as he & Cappotelli step inside.


John Morrison: Unfortunately I’ve had the misfortune of knowing The Miz for some time, and just when I thought I’d heard it all, last week he sunk to new depths even f’ him. . . Where I was fortunate enough to have the chance to perform in front of each and ev’ryone of you and millions more fans across the world watching at home, that chance was taken away from Matt, or more specifically, cancer took that chance away from him. The hell he’s been through, that I saw him go through made it impossible not to feel sorry for him, but now he’s beaten it in a fight tougher than any you’ll ever get in this ring, the only thing I feel is pride. I’m proud of him for coming through it. . . I invited him to SummerSlam for one reason, because he’s my best friend as The Miz himself knows, and I wanted him there in my corner on one of the biggest nights of my career. Matt knows that too and if he felt for a second I was taking pity on him, he’d know and he would never have turned up at SummerSlam.

Matt Cappotelli: I’ve never wanted sympathy an’ John knows that better anybody. That’s why I wasn’t that bothered by what The Miz said last week. After all I’ve been through, you find out that life really is too short t’ put up with people like him. I’m just thankful that I had god by my side to help me beat the cancer.

“AWE-SOME. . . I CAME TO, CAME T’ PLAY. . .”

Clearly amused, The Miz hits the stage dressed in jeans, T-shirt and casual jacket along with Heath Slater, his rookie who’s wearing jeans and a hoodie with the hood down. Mr. Hollywood is holding a microphone and his music cuts. Morrison & Cappotelli look up at them and Morrison is very unhappy to say the least at The Miz’s interruption.


The Miz: What I don’t get Matt is how you don’t want sympathy yet here you are crying like a baby about how god helped you an’ how god saved your life. . . You wanna know what I think?. . . It’s crap. It’s all crap. . . Really it’s total B-S. You know how many people die ev’ry week of cancer across the world? You’re okay though right Matt because god chose to ignore ev’ryone else an’ save you. . . You actually believe that god, if there is one that is cured your cancer in some kind of miracle. . . Well let me make this as clear as I possibly can, there is no god and you’re a moron f’ believing he actually helped you. . . In fact, maybe there is a god. Yeah there could be something to that seeing it was some kind of miracle that John beat me at SummerSlam. It had t’ take something extraordinary an’ the more I think about it, the clearer it gets. Maybe you’re right. How does it work exactly? Do you have t’ go an’ ask ‘im personally f’ a favour or what? Maybe you could have a word with him about turning up at Unf’given, ‘cause that’s the only way you’ll ever beat me again John. . . Not even god can stop The Miz. GOD’S NOT GONNA STOP ME BEIN’ THE BIGGEST STAR THIS BUSINESS WILL EVER SEE.

John Morrison: I CAN’T WAIT F’ UNF’GIVEN, ‘CAUSE WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON YOU YOU’LL BE ON YOUR KNEES PRAYING F’ MERCY.

***

Later That Night

Backstage, the camera pans to the right and John Morrison is being pummelled by The Miz & Heath Slater with Matt Cappotelli trying to fend them off with Melina there also. She’s concerned as Slater shoves Cappotelli down to his knees before he & his mentor put the boots to The Monday Night Delight.


Melina: STOP IT, PLEASE.

Cappotelli stands back up and pulls Slater away by the arm, causing The Miz to stop his own attack on Morrison.

The Miz: I’d let go of him right now Matt unless you want yet another trip t’ the hospital.

Cappotelli doesn’t want to as he stares at the deadly serious Mr. Hollywood while Melina kneels down to check on Morrison. Cappotelli then reluctantly lets go of Slater.

The Miz: My pleasure. Come on Heath. Oh yeah, that’s your first lesson. Be prepared!

Melina & Cappotelli look disgusted with them The Miz & Slater walk off laughing with Morrison squirming on the floor, looking very groggy as the camera zooms in on him.

***

Raw
8th September (Two Weeks Ago)


Non-Title Match
Melina vs. Nikki Bella w/Cody Rhodes, Joe Hennig & Brie Bella

The Women’s Champion caught her Nikki the Extreme Makeover, a spinning face-buster to earn herself the victory. Rhodes & Hennig weren’t best pleased but took it on the chin as they then helped the twins round to the ramp while Melina posed with her title. However her music stopped to her surprise, and “I Came to Play” hit to a chorus of boos as The Miz and his rookie, Heath Slater made their way down to the ring with big smiles on their faces and past Cody, Hennig & the Bellas. Melina didn’t know what was going on and didn’t look all that worried as the cocky Clevelander walked past her to get himself a microphone.
The Miz: Congratulations on that highly impressive vict’ry Melina. I think I speak for both Heath an’ myself when I say that you looked great t’night. You sure did a number on your opponent, just like we did on your precious John Morrison last week.

Melina looks disgusted with Mr. Hollywood as both he & Slater laugh about their attack on Morrison last week.

The Miz: Sure it’s not gonna be as impressive as what I’m gonna do t’ him at Unf’given, but still I think he got the point that I’m The Miz, and I’M AWE. . .

“Listen, this ain’t no make believe. . .”

The Miz
is pissed and looks up at the stage to see an angry John Morrison & Matt Cappotelli walk out in to the arena. Melina smirks and watches her friends pace down the ramp in to the ring, and The Monday Night Delight is in a foul mood, understandably so after last week. He gets right up close to Mr. Hollywood and stares at him eyeball to eyeball. It looks like things could blow up with The Miz smirking away at seeing his former partner getting riled up, and Morrison then shrugs his way past him to get a microphone from Lilian Garcia. With Cappotelli & Melina still staring at Miz & Slater, Morrison turns back and heads towards his friends with the stick.

John Morrison: You’re real tough aren’t you Miz? Not only did you attack me from behind last week, you come out here and intimidate a woman, a close friend of mine. You’re damn lucky I came out here when I did or you wouldn’t be in any shape t’ face me in two weeks at Unf’given. . . After ev’rything you’ve said about Matt, jumping me an’ trying t’ scare Melina, you’re really setting a great example for your rookie, and at Unf’given we’ll really find out how tough you are.

The Miz: Oh I’m tough.

Morrison sn-iggers.

The Miz: What, you don’t think so? I’ll prove it right now.

John Morrison: How so? What are you going t’ do huh? Go an’ pick on J-R or Lilian maybe?

The Miz: Don’t get smart with me John because you’d be way out of your depth an’ you know it. What I have in mind is a challenge, a challenge for a no holds barred match right here next week live on Raw. . . And the man I’m challenging John has a giant advantage as he has someone else on his side that it might as well be a handicap match. . . The person I’m challenging is none other than Matt Cappotelli.

Cappotelli grabs hold of Morrison’s microphone and looks at Morrison to basically say he wants it. Morrison looks surprised but lets go as Cappotelli then locks his eyes on The Miz.

Matt Cappotelli: You’re as transparent as it gets. You came out here t’night with this plan t’ challenge me right so you’d look all big when I said I no? Well I’ve got news f’ you Mister Hollywood. Your little plan’s backfired because I’m not going t’ say no even though I know I should. What I am saying is next week, you an’ me no holds barred.

***

Raw
Last Week

A concerned John Morrison is walking back & forth in a locker room with a focused Matt Cappotelli sat down on the bench pulling his knee pads in to place. The Monday Night Delight now sits down alongside his buddy.


John Morrison: Matt, I know we’ve been through a lot t’gether, but this whole thing with The Miz, well it isn’t your problem. You don’t have t’ do this t’night. It’s still not too late t’ pull out you know? You don’t have to prove anything to anyone, especially The Miz.

Matt sits up and looks at Morrison.

Matt Cappotelli: I know you’re just tryin’ t’ look out f’ me, but you don’t need to, I know what I’m doin’. I’m gonna make sure The Miz gets what’s comin’ to ‘im after ev’rything he’s said since SummerSlam, an’ no one can change my mind John, not even you man. I’ve gotta do this.

***

Later That Night

“AWE-SOME!”

Boos fill the Idaho Center as The Miz and his rookie, Heath Slater enter the arena. Both young men seem very relaxed as Mr. Hollywood stops at the top of the stage, smiling & nodding. He then walks down the ramp with a certain swagger & purpose, followed by his smirking rookie. As The Miz enters the ring with the fans still booing, he walks over to Lilian Garcia and asks for her microphone. He gets it and takes up centre stage with Slater joining him by his side as the music stops, bringing out the heat even more as The Miz stands there smirking.


The Miz: It appears that over the last few weeks, some over sensitive individuals have taken offensive to some of the comments I may have made regarding one Matt Cappotelli. . . I don’t regret a single word I’ve said, and if that upsets or offends anyone, I don’t care. I’m not here to tell you what the world needs t’ hear. I’m here for one reason and one reason only, to become the biggest star this company has ever seen. . . Ultimately there’s only one person responsible for what may or may not happen t’night, and that’s not me. For those who are curious, it won’t be god either. It’ll be his close personal friend, Matt Cappotelli. . . The only way he could ever beat me is if god came downstairs, and rest assured people, that’s not gonna happen. He may have beaten cancer but he won’t beat The Miz.

“Listen, this ain’t no make believe. . .”

The disgusted duo of Matt Cappotelli & John Morrison slowly walk out to the stage, and The Monday Night Delight shakes his head and stares down at his rival just grinning back at him. Cappotelli is one intense guy right now as he focuses on one person and one person only, The Miz. He & Morrison set off down the ramp with Cappotelli wearing cut off black jeans, a white T-shirt and boots as well as the all padding he needs on his elbows & knees. The Miz backs up in to his corner with Slater leaving the ring looking very confident of his mentor’s chances as Cappotelli climbs up the steps to enter the ring, glaring right at his opponent. Morrison takes up a position in his friend’s corner while the very overconfident Mr. Hollwood continues smirking at Cappotelli who looks ready to go.


No Holds Barred
Matt Cappotelli w/John Morrison vs. The Miz w/Heath Slater

As soon as the bell rang, Miz ran at Cappotelli and knocked him down with a thunderous clothesline leaving Matt in some pain on the mat. The Miz smirked and looked over at Slater, then nodded his head. Slater grabbed a chair from beside the timekeeper’s table and slipped it in to the ring to his mentor as Cappotelli started to make his way back up. Mr. Hollywood picked it up and got ready to take his opponent’s head off with Morrison looking very worried on the outside. He panicked and threw himself in the ring as Cappotelli got to his feet. With The Miz lifting the chair up high above his head and as Matt turned round, Morrison ran at him and shoved him out of the way, running right in to the chair shot meant for his buddy.

It amused The Miz and he had laughed at the sight of Morrison flat on his back and Cappotelli trying to get to his knees. The Miz stepped back and got ready to strike again with the fans booing and looking extremely worried for Cappotelli. He didn’t take his eyes off him, and as Matt stood up and turned round, he blasted him in the skull with the chair to a barrage of heat. Both The Miz & Slater enjoyed seeing both Morrison & Cappotelli flat out, and The Miz simply dropped the chair before placing his right boot across Matt’s chest for the cover.

Cappotelli was helpless and the referee counted to three resulting in yet more heat and “I Came to Play” playing again. Slater joined his mentor in the ring and applauded as the ref raised The Miz’s hand in victory. The Miz was in heaven, sn-iggering away as Melina, the WWE Women’s Champion ran down the ramp to check on both her friends, further amusing Mr. Hollywood & Slater. They then left the ring wearing big smiles as they laughed at the angry & concerned fans as well as taking a look back in the ring with Morrison beginning to come round.

He slowly sat up and stared up at his remorseless rival before seeing Cappotelli totally out of it. His attention turned to Matt, who wasn’t moving, and The Monday Night Delight called for help from the back. He got it and a couple of EMTs charged down the ramp to attend to Cappotelli, much to the amusement of Miz & Slater, who stood watching with pleasure from the stage. Morrison looked up at them with contempt while the EMTs continued checking Matt’s condition.


***

Later That Night

Matt Cappotelli
is shown being put in to the back of an ambulance on a stretcher with John Morrison & Melina. We can see that Cappotelli has regained consciousness and Morrison jumps in the ambulance with him, then turns back to Melina.

John Morrison: I’ll give you a call from the hospital okay?

Melina: Sure. I’ll meet you there.

Paramedic #1: We’ve gotta take off, sorry.

The paramedics slam the door shut, and as Melina turns round with the ambulance setting off, she’s greeted by The Miz & Heath Slater. They’re both grinning in a big way, disgusting Melina.

The Miz: Is he gonna be okay? I sure hope I’ve not done any more damage to that delicate brain of his.

Melina: You’re sick, you know that.

Melina storms off past them and they laugh out loud together as they watch her leave.

The Miz: Now that Heath, that was awesome.

They carry on laughing as the ambulance leaves the arena in the distance.


*Cut to the Arena*


*Match #4*



No Disqualification Match
John Morrison w/Melina vs. The Miz w/Heath Slater

Last 10+ Minutes:
Both men make their way up, both deadly serious and full of intent. Miz is ultra fired up and throws a wild right at his former tag team partner. Morrison blocks it though and whips Mr. Hollywood in to the ropes. Miz comes running back and Morrison leans down to lift him off his feet, then falls back, sending Miz’s face crashing in to the mat with a FLAPJACK!. . . . .

That had to hurt, and The Miz turns over on to his back, squirming and looking uncomfortable as Morrison races back up to his feet. The Monday Night Delight isn’t wasting a second and jumps up in to the air, hitting a STANDING SHOOTING STAR PRESS!. . . . . Morrison lands right on Miz’s chest, taking the wind out of his sails, concerning Slater on the outside. Melina prays, looking on from her friend’s corner as he reaches to the side and hooks the leg for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

The Miz comfortably kicks out, not that he’s looking comfortable as Morrison leans back on to his knees. Slater’s relieved on the outside, but The Shaman of Sexy isn’t in the mood to give The Miz any time to recover. He stands up and brings Miz with him, then tries for an irish whip to the corner, but Miz reverses it and sends Morrison crashing in to the pads back first.

Miz takes a deep breath and runs in at the stunned Morrison, catching him with a jumping clothesline that takes The Miz through the ropes in to a sitting position on the middle rope. He’s looking very smug, and his rookie is nodding along. The Miz pulls away from the ropes and stands up, then drives his knee hard in to Morrison’s gut. JoMo slumps forward and Miz pulls him out of the corner, then takes him down via a side headlock and drives his knee right in to Morrison’s spine.

He keeps the side headlock locked in, making life very difficult for Morrison. The Miz is holding on for dear life, but the fans start to encourage The Monday Night Delight, clapping along with Melina as she bangs her hands in to the mat. Mr. Hollywood & Slater don’t appreciate it one bit, and Morrison responds. He manages to get on to one knee, and Miz is worried. He clings on but is powerless as Morrison fights his way up to his feet and drives his elbow back in to the ribs of The Miz.

They have an effect and he battles free to put The Miz down on one knee. He turns back in to the ropes and runs the ropes but Miz stands upright and hits him with the kitchen sink, driving his knee in to Morrison’s gut, sending him right back down to the mat. Morrison sits up clutching his stomach as the pissed Miz runs past him in to the ropes and comes back to nail him with a stiff kick to the chest. Morrison falls back and The Miz rushes down to his knees to cover him with the ref rushing across to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

No! Morrison kicks out, angering The Miz slightly. He doesn’t look all that surprised as he stares at the referee. Slater urges him on from the outside while Melina looks concerned for her friend. He sits up in pain and The Miz helps him up, then fires him in to the ropes. The Shaman of Sexy hits them and holds on to the top rope, pissing The Miz off no end. He sees red and charges at his opponent, and Morrison lifts his elbow up in to Miz’s face.

The crowd cheer and The Miz is sent staggering away from the ropes, giving Morrison the chance to compose himself. As The Miz turns round, Morrison walks out to meet him, catching him with a ONE ARMED HEADSTAND OVER HEEL KICK!. . . . . There’s more cheers from the crowd as The Miz falls to the mat and Morrison follows it up right away with a BREAK-DANCE LEG DROP!. . . . . With momentum on his side and confidence gaining, Morrison shimmies round to hook The Miz’s leg for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

The Miz kicks out, leaving Morrison slightly disappointed. He doesn’t look that surprised as he leans back, and Mr. Hollywood tries to get away, rolling towards the ropes. Morrison stands back up and watches The Miz clawing his way back up with the aid of the ropes. He gets his balance and turns round to see JoMo flying at him, nailing him with a clothesline that sends The Miz over the top rope down to the floor below, and the crowd love it.

Slater walks round to check on his mentor, not aware of Morrison staring down at both him & Miz. Morrison looks in to the cheering crowd with a glint in his eye and a smile on his face. He turns back, runs the ropes and races back across the ring, DIVING THROUGH THE ROPES TO TAKE DOWN BOTH THE MIZ & SLATER!!!. . . . . The fans in the first few rows are on their feet and cheering once again as Morrison sits up and looks in to the stands.

Melina’s impressed, almost gleaming in fact as she watches on. Morrison’s firmly in control now. He stands up with both Miz & Slater stirring, reaches down and pulls his opponent up, then tosses him back in the ring under the bottom rope. Morrison’s still smiling as he takes his time climbing back on the apron, but it’s a mistake. Slater jumps up from his knees and drags Morrison down by the boot, and MORRISON’S HEAD SMASHES AGAINST THE APRON BEFORE HE FALLS TO THE FLOOR!!. . . . .

Boos are echoing inside the Cow Palace as an angry Slater kneels down and drags the groggy Monday Night Delight back up. Miz sits up smiling to see his rookie WHIP MORRISON IN TO THE RING-POST, GETTING THE CROWD EVEN HOTTER!!. . . . . The boos are deafening as Morrison drops to the floor holding his face after it just got introduced to the steel post. The referee wanders across to the apron has a word with the remorseless Slater, but it’s pointless as Slater points out.

There are no disqualifications in this match and Miz is loving it as he looks on. Melina’s not happy and goes over to check on Morrison, who’s very dazed right now. Slater takes no notice of Melina and walks towards Morrison to drag him back up. He tosses him back in the ring as his mentor stands up looking very relaxed indeed, and he should be now his rookie’s down some of the work for him. The Miz gets back up to his feet with a smug look of confidence on his face as Morrison turns round on his knees to try & get up using the ropes to help him.

Miz is loving it as he watches his former partner struggle to make it back up, and as Morrison makes it to his feet and backs away from the ropes, The Miz strikes. He runs at him and nails him with a clothesline in to a REVERSE STO!!. . . . . Morrison’s head hits the mat in a bad way and The Miz is now all business as he shifts round to make a cover, shoving Morrison flat on to his back with the ref rushing across to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

No! Morrison gets his shoulder up to the relief of both Melina and the crowd. The Women’s Champion, holding her title at ringside is looking very relieved as the starry eyed Monday Night Delight lifts his head up off the mat, not knowing where he is with The Miz not at all happy that he escaped at two. Mr. Hollywood wants to get the match wrapped up now and stands up, staring down at the squirming Shaman of Sexy. He backs away and watches Morrison again claw his way back up, then pounces on him as soon as he’s up, kicking him in the gut and grabbing him by the head.

The Miz sets him up for a bulldog and runs in to the ropes, going for the SPRINGBOARD, BUT MORRISON THROWS HIM OFF HIS SHOULDER IN MID-AIR AND DOWN TO THE MAT!. . . . . The fans cheer as Morrison takes the time to get his breath back, leaning against the ropes while The Miz picks himself back up with Slater worried on the outside.

Morrison watches The Miz stand up and paces across the mat, lifting his boot up for a SUPER KICK!!. . . . . NO, MIZ DUCKS IT AND GRABS MORRISON BY THE HEAD TO PLANT HIM WITH A FALLING NECK BREAKER!!!. . . . . Morrison hits the deck and The Miz thinks he has it, shimmying round on the mat to hook Morrison’s leg for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

Morrison just about gets his shoulder up, and it’s met by a pop from the crowd and a big smile on the face of Melina. The Miz isn’t smiling though. He sits up and stares angrily at the referee. He can’t believe it was just two, but the referee makes him clear it was. The Monday Night Delight is showing his resiliency as he sits up, albeit awkwardly, and The Miz has him in his sights. The Miz gets up and stalks him, worrying the crowd who try to warn Morrison.

There’s panic on the face of Melina, the complete opposite of the smirking Slater. Morrison makes it up and tries to get his balance, but The Miz doesn’t let him. He sneaks up behind him and pulls him in to place for the SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!!!. . . . . OR SO HE THINKS! MORRISON SLIPS ROUND THE BACK OF HIM AND PLANTS HIM WITH A RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX!!. . . . .

Melina’s smiling once again, although she’s obviously relieved with Slater frustrated. Both Miz & Morrison struggle to make it back up, not looking in the best of shape. As they get back up, both groggy, they turn to face each other and MORRISON EXPLODES OUT OF NOWHERE WITH A MASSIVE SUPER KICK!!!. . . . . A massive roar breaks out as The Miz just falls back with the weary Morrison dropping to his knees on top of him to make the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .3?

NO!

The Miz just, and just gets his shoulder up to deny Morrison another victory at his expense. Slater breathes a huge sigh of relief on the outside in his mentor’s corner, and Morrison leans back on to his knees looking devastated. He thought he had it in the bag there & then. He sits up and runs his hands through his hair, but he soon realises that The Miz is in a bad way, barely moving.

Morrison springs in to action, standing back up and dragging Mr. Hollywood close to the corner. Morrison looks in to the crowd and down at Slater in front of him on the floor, letting him know what’s coming. The fans are cheering as Morrison hits the ropes and connects with STARSHIP PAIN!!!. . . . . Landing on Miz’s chest, Morrison reaches across to hook the near leg for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .3?

NO! Slater puts The Miz’s foot on the rope at the last second. The boos ring out and they’re deafening as the referee looks at Slater, who just grins back at him. Morrison turns his head and sees Slater there grinning at him, and The Shaman of Sexy snaps. He rolls out of the ring, taking Miz’s rookie by surprise. Slater tries to run away but Morrison catches up with him and grabs him. The crowd cheer as Morrison looks in to the stands, teasing a punch, then turns back to Slater and drills him with a right hand in front of the announce table.

It’s deafening inside the Cow Palace now for another reason, and Melina nods her head in approval as Morrison takes some pleasure in looking down at Slater, who stares back up at him full of anger. He then turns back and slips in to the ring, walking over to The Miz, who’s getting up to his knees. Morrison tries to help him up but The Miz shoots up, playing possum and nails him with a forearm, sending him round in a spin. Miz walks up behind him and grabs him once again for the SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!!!. . . . .

NO! AGAIN MORRISON ESCAPES! THIS TIME WITH AN ELBOW BACK IN TO THE FACE OF MR. HOLLYWOOD!. . . . . MIZ IS STARTLED AS MORRISON RUNS THE ROPES, SPRINGBOARDS AND LEVELS HIM WITH AN ENZUIGIRI!!!. . . . . Both men hit the deck and The Miz is in real danger now. He sits up not knowing what’s going on, and Morrison is on a mission. With the fans urging him on, he rushes back up and drags The Miz up, pulling him in to place for the MOONLIGHT DRIVE!!!. . . . .

The fans are on their feet, but wait! Slater’s up and he slides a steel chair in to the ring on the blind side of Morrison, then runs round and jumps up on the apron, catching Morrison’s attention. The Monday Night Delight is livid, sick of the sight of his opponent’s rookie. He lets go of The Miz and paces across the mat, grabbing Slater by the shirt and staring right at him. For some reason he lets him go, amusing Slater, but MORRISON TAKES A STEP BACK AND NAILS HIM WITH A SUPER KICK!!!. . . . .

SLATER’S SENT DOWN TO THE FLOOR!. . . . . MORRISON’S SMILING BUT MELINA SEES SOMETHING HE DOESN’T. THE MIZ IS UP WITH THE CHAIR IN HIS HANDS. MELINA & THE CROWD TRY TO WARN MORRISON, BUT HE TURNS ROUND RIGHT IN TO A SHOT TO THE SKULL FROM THE MIZ WITH THE STEEL CHAIR!!!. . . . . The Miz is smirking like mad and just lets go of the chair with Morrison flat out on the mat. Slowly & confidently, Mr. Hollywood drops to his knees and makes the cover with the disgusted referee kneeling down to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .3?

NO!

Morrison somehow, someway gets his shoulder up! The crowd is going nuts, cheering for Morrison as The Miz leans back in absolute shock! He stares blankly at the referee, who does all he can to make The Miz see it was just a count of two. Melina can’t believe it, but The Miz is furious. Morrison’s eyes are barely registering, and The Miz snaps. He stands back up and stares down at his former partner for a couple of seconds before dragging him back up. The crowd boo as The Miz pulls Morrison effortlessly in to place for the SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!!!. . . . .

Morrison can’t react and The Miz has him set up with the chair on the mat right in front of them. The boos ring out but they can’t stop The Miz nailing the SKULL CRUSHING FINALE, SENDING MORRISON FACE FIRST IN TO THE CHAIR!!!. . . . . Surely there’s no way back this time for Morrison. Miz doesn’t think so as he stares smugly in to the crowd and turns the lifeless body of John Morrison over on to his back to make the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .3!


Winner: The Miz by pinfall.

Aftermath: “Awesome” plays to an absolute barrage of heat inside the Cow Palace as The Miz stands up with the most hideous smug smile you’ve ever seen. The ref barely raises his arm in the air, clearly appalled at how this unfolded, but The Miz doesn’t care. Neither does Slater as he sits up on the outside smirking at seeing his mentor grinning at the fallen John Morrison. Melina slides in the ring and goes straight over to Morrison, who starts to come round. The Miz continues laughing at the expense of Morrison and to the disgust of the Women’s Champion.

Slater picks himself back up and walks round to the ramp, and The Miz takes his leave to join him. He slaps hands with his rookie and they continue to enjoy Mr. Hollywood’s success, laughing at Morrison & Melina, and Morrison lifts his head up looking dead to the world. Slater raises his mentor’s arm in the air to more boos from the crowd at the bottom of the ramp, not that they’re bothered by the heat. They just shrug it off and carry on laughing with the disgusted Melina shaking her head in the ring.


*Cut Backstage*


There’s a tense scene in the production area as the Intercontinental Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr, ready to go for his upcoming title defence is stood with his girlfriend, ‘The Million Dollar Woman’ Maryse and his rookie, Ezekiel Jackson.


Ted DiBiase: Look, Bischoff might think he’s got it all worked out but he hasn’t. We all know I can beat Kofi whatever Bischoff, Lawler and the fans might think, and don’t worry, that’s what I’m going to do all by myself. F’get what happened on Raw, that was a fluke and it won’t happen again. I’m going out there and I’m gonna show ev’ryone I deserve to be the Intercontinental Champion.

Maryse: Not that you need it baby, but good luck.

Ezekiel Jackson: Yeah, good luck man.

Ted DiBiase: Thanks, I’ll see you both soon, and I’ll still have this title. That’s a promise.

Ted then walks away looking all determined with Maryse & Jackson looking on, both very serious and looking slightly concerned with DiBiase Jr just minutes away from his SummerSlam rematch with an angry Kofi Kingston.


*Video Recap*

SummerSlam
Last Month

WWE Intercontinental Championship
Kofi Kingston (c) w/Kelly Kelly vs. Ted DiBiase Jr w/Maryse

DiBiase’s really intense right now as he stalks Kofi again for DREAM STREET!!!. . . . . The challenger lifts both his arms in to the air in preparation, getting ready to finish Kofi and take the Intercontinental Championship. The fans again try to warn Kingston again as he gets to his knees, and Ted loses his patience. He walks up to Kofi and tries to pull him up, but Kofi fights to save his title and swings his elbow back in to the Ted’s face, knocking him back and in to the referee.

They clash and the ref falls to the canvas with DiBiase holding his head, not looking to have suffered too badly. He then turns round and sees him lying there, not out of it but barely moving. He then turns back to face Kofi, who’s unaware of what’s happened. The Intercontinental Champion gets up and turns round to connect this time with the LEG FEED ENZUIGIRI, CATCHING DIBIASE OFF GUARD!!. . . . . He shifts round to make a cover and then turns to see the drowsy referee lying on the mat with his eyes not on the action. Kingston immediately gets up and checks on the referee, looking genuinely concerned about his condition.

DiBiase lifts his head up, all starry eyed, but his eyes light up as Maryse walks round to the timekeeper’s table and grabs Kofi’s title. She then slides it in to the ring and it falls right at Ted’s body. There’s a great deal of anxiousness in the arena, and Kofi doesn’t know why. Neither does Kelly as she too is focusing on the referee. Ted comes to life and grabs the belt as he makes his way up to his knees with the title clutched to his chest. The fans are desperately trying to warn Kofi now, and as Ted gets up to his feet and gets ready to take the champ’s head off with his own title, The Million Dollar Man jumps up from the announce table and throws his headset down on the desk, surprising the hell out of Jim Ross.

DiBiase Sr gets in the ring and walks up behind his son, then spins him round, catching him totally by surprise. He screams at his dad and tells him to get out of the way, but the Hall of Famer isn’t budging and he grabs the title from his son to a big pop. Ted Jr flips out and shoves his dad, who looks completely disgusted with his son. His face gets redder by the second, and Kofi turns round to see what the hell’s going on. As he walks across, The Million Dollar Man snaps and SWINGS THE BELT AT HIS SON’S HEAD!!!. . . . . BUT WAIT, TED DUCKS AND KOFI WALKS RIGHT IN TO IT. HE’S BEEN KNOCKED OUT BY HIS OWN TITLE BELT!!!. . . . .

Boos fill the HP Pavilion as the equally stunned father and son look on with DiBiase Sr looking on in horror. He doesn’t know what he’s done and flees the ring in panic, watching on from the apron as the younger DiBiase panics too and kicks the evidence under the bottom rope before dropping to his knees and covering the champion to an absolute barrage of heat. He turns to the side and sees the referee slowly crawling across the mat, and with Kofi absolutely out of it, the ref counts his shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3?

NO!!! Kofi somehow, someway gets his shoulder up to the total bemusement of DiBiase Jr. His father is one relieved man on the outside, and he watches on as his son sits up and stares down in shock. He then shakes his head and gets back to work, glaring down at Kofi as he begins to come round. It takes him a while, but DiBiase is seriously fired up as he stalks the champion again.

Kofi struggles to his knees and then his feet, looking very unsteady, and Ted doesn’t give him chance. The challenger walks up behind him and this time he plants Kofi with DREAM STREET!!!. . . . . That has to be all, and Kofi’s not moving at all as Ted shifts round to hook both legs with the referee, still on the mat himself crawling in to position to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3!!!

“Priceless” hits to an absolute bombardment of boos inside the HP Pavilion. He stands up looking so proud of himself as Maryse walks round to pick the Intercontinental title up from the arena floor that now belongs to her boyfriend. The Million Dollar Man can’t believe it and is full of guilt as he watches on from the apron as his son lifts his new shiny title aloft, much to the disapproval of the California fans. He then turns and sni-ggers in his dad’s direction, who shakes his head in utter frustration at the role he’s just played in the finish. DiBiase Jr now walks over to the ropes with Maryse following and throws the title up in the air again, still looking immensely smug.

His girlfriend is clapping behind him, and as he turns round, he gives her a gentle and brief kiss before taking her hand and escorting her to the apron by the ramp. He sits on the middle rope and allows her to leave the ring, and he follows. They walk up the ramp and turn round to see Kelly slide in the ring to check on Kofi, who tries to sit up, still looking very groggy. He clearly doesn’t know what’s going on, but The Million Dollar Man does, and he’s still feeling sorry for himself. Kofi looks up towards the new Intercontinental Champion, who lifts the title up again at the top of the ramp with Maryse grinning beside him.


***

Raw
18th August (24 Hours Later)

“Priceless. Baby I’m priceless. . .”

Ted DiBiase Jr
walks out to the stage along with Maryse, and the new Intercontinental Champion stops at the top of the stage and lifts his title up in the air to even more heat from the crowd. He just laughs at the crowd’s reaction, as does Maryse as they then walk down the ramp, both dressed smartly. Ted’s wearing trousers and a white shirt while his girlfriend dons an elegant black dress, and Ted sits down on the second rope so that she can enter the ring. He follows her in and walks across to the other side of the ring to collect a microphone, looking in the direction of his embarrassed father. He grins at his dad before turning back and heading to the middle of the ring, joining Maryse as his music grinds to a halt.

Ted DiBiase Jr: I told you so. I told you I’d leave SummerSlam as the new Intercontinental Champion, and that’s exactly what I did.

The Intercontinental Champion & Maryse turn to the announce table and face The Million Dollar Man, who’s still clearly feeling guilty for his role in the match last night.

Ted DiBiase Jr: How’d you feel now dad? You wanted me to earn a title all by myself and be a champion you can be proud of like Kofi Kingston. . . You knew one day I’d do the one thing you never did an’ win a world title, and right now I’m well on my way. An’ dad I’ve got t’ say, I can’t tell you how much it meant t’ me that you were there t’ see it. Well you did a bit more than that didn’t you dad? And for that I’ll be eternally grateful. I can’t thank you enough, so dad I’m standing here in front of you on this glorious night, and from the bottom of my heart, I just want t’ say, thanks.

“S O S, I hear ‘em callin’. . .”

An angry Kofi Kingston storms out in to the arena and he paces down the ramp with DiBiase Jr looking a little surprised but he’s more amused by it. As Kofi gets in the ring, DiBiase Sr (now in the ring) gets a dirty look and still looks very sorry. Kofi walks past him and demands a microphone, getting it and walking towards them and looking at them both.


The Million Dollar Man: Kofi, I’m glad you’ve come out here. I wanted the chance t’ talk to you about last night. I can’t tell you how sorry I am, truly I am.

Kofi Kingston: Really? Am I supposed t’ just accept that?. . . How do I know you two didn’t plan all this along huh?

The Million Dollar Man: Look, I don’t blame you for being angry Kofi, I really don’t, but I. . .

Ted DiBiase Jr: . . . Hey Kofi, come on now. Do you really think that bitter waste of space wants t’ see me succeed? Get real. If he was going to screw anybody last night, it would’ve been me, an’ he tried, only I saw it coming an’ got out of the way. You on the other hand were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. That’s all there is to it.

Kofi Kingston: What, I’m supposed t’ believe ev’ry word y’say am I?. . . I don’t trust you an’. . .

Ted DiBiase Jr: . . . The only thing you have to do Kofi is get over it. You lost the title. Move on, it’s mine now. . . So what I suggest you do is, put all the conspiracy theories t’ the side an’ forget about the Intercontinental Championship, ‘cause. . .

Kofi Kingston: . . . Hell no. Y’might ‘ave the title but y’wanna know what I got?. . . I’ve got a rematch any time I want, an’ y’know what I’m thinkin’? I’m thinkin’ why not use it right here t’night? I want my rematch AN’ I WANT IT RIGHT NOW.

Ted DiBiase Jr: Woah, hang on. I didn’t come here t’ wrestle t’night an’ I don’t even have my gear with me, so I’m sorry t’ disappoint you an’ all your fans here in California, but you’re not getting your rematch t’night.

“13”

The temporary general manager for Raw, Tazz walks out to the stage and asks Zack Ryder for his microphone, and Raw’s new host hands it over to him. Both DiBiase Jr and the hot former Intercontinental Champion turn and look up at him, as does The Million Dollar Man.


Tazz: I’m sorry Kofi but he’s right. You won’t be gettin’ your rematch t’night. . . Y’do ‘ave a rematch clause but it ain’t up t’ you when y’wanna use it. That’s up t’ the general manager of Raw, which right now is me, an’ I ain’t exactly happy ‘bout what went down at the end o’ your match last night either. That’s why we’re gonna do this properly. . . In just under five weeks, Raw has its next exclusive pay-per-view, Unf’given. That’s when you’re gonna get your rematch Kofi, an’ like Ted said, you’ll be in a better place t’ get the title back. . . Now I don’t want a repeat of what went down at SummerSlam, so I suggest Ted, Ted Senior that is, that you don’t get involved next time. . . At Unf’given, we’ll find out who really deserves t’ be the In’ercon’ental Champion.

***

Raw
25th August

“Back in Black” by ACDC

Here he comes, Eric Bischoff strolls out to the stage to a huge pop. Wearing a very expensive black leather jacket (but not just that as that might be weird despite this not being a PG show), Raw’s Head of Authority looks in to the crowd looking very serious indeed before walking down the ramp with purpose. He picks a microphone up off the steps and enters the ring to another a big pop, but he’s not in the mood to waste any time.


Eric Bischoff: It’s been nearly two months since I stepped foot in this ring, not that I had any say in that, but rest assured, Eric Bischoff is back. . . the time has finally come t’ break my silence on the very incident that left me unconscious and in hospital for a number of weeks. . . I was kept up t’ speed with the investigation t’ find out who was responsible, and t’ the surprise of many of you, the search came up short. It appears that the person responsible for putting me in the hospital has got away with it. . . That may be the way it seems, however that’s not exactly the case. . . See when I was asked if I had any recollection of that incident, I told the detectives that questioned me that I couldn’t remember a thing when in fact, I do. . . I know exactly who attacked me and why, and the reason I kept that t’ myself is simple. It’s so that I can get justice my way, and believe me, that’s exactly what I’m going t’ do. . . See I’m going t’ give him the chance t’ make his life slightly more comf’table because I’m going t’ give him the opportunity to come out here, admit responsibility and personally apologise t’ me. If he chooses not t’ take that chance, well whatever hell he’s thinking about right now is going t’ be nothing I assure you. . . Now I realise that you may believe there is the possibility I’m bluffing, but let me make this perfectly clear. . . I’m not. And if you don’t have the balls to come out here and admit what you did by the end of the show, I will call you out myself and make your life a living hell. That is no bluff, it’s a promise.

***

Later That Night

Out walks the smirking Eric Bischoff, not looking too bothered that his assailant hasn’t come forward as he heads down the ramp with a security team of eight men. He then steps in to the ring and collects a microphone from Lilian Garcia as his music is cut. The fans are cheering as the Head of Authority smiles in to the stands, giving off the impression that he’s only too happy to make someone’s life very difficult from this moment forward.


Eric Bischoff: Well here we are. It appears that a certain someone has failed to take any notice of what I said earlier about making their life a living hell if they declined the chance I gave them to come forward, and from this night forward, they’re going to wish they had. . . It’s time the man responsible faced up to his actions, and now he will. . . So at this time I’d like Ted DiBiase Junior to get his sorry ass down here right now.

Bischoff looks mean as hell as he stares up at the stage, waiting for the man who supposedly is the one who attacked him almost two months back.

“Priceless, baby I’m priceless. . .”
The Intercontinental Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr makes his way out to the stage in an expensive looking shirt and trousers with the Intercontinental title draped proudly over his shoulder. Maryse is as ever by his side, and the pair of them look very coy as they walk slowly down the ramp and in to the ring. As they get there, Bischoff throws him his microphone, surprising DiBiase Jr who just about catches and holds on to it as Bischoff turns round to collect another. DiBiase watches Bischoff walk back in to the centre of the ring, and the youngster can’t help but grin as they stare at each other.


Ted DiBiase Jr: It seems t’ me you’ve got your wires crossed. . . Now I know you’ve been through a terrible ordeal an’ all but you’re looking in the wrong direction. The detectives might’ve made out I was one of their chief suspects, and just like you they had nothing on me. There’s no proof, you’re on a fishing trip. You might’ve said you weren’t bluffing earlier on but you obviously are. So if you don’t mind boss, I’m going t’ get the hell out of this hell hole of a state with my beautiful girlfriend here, go home and relax, but good luck trying t’ find out who actually attacked you.

DiBiase turns round with the microphone in hand and walks over to the ropes, followed by Maryse.

Eric Bischoff: So by that I assume you don’t want me to share you’re an’ your dad’s master-plan to guarantee you won the Intercontinental title at SummerSlam?

DiBiase Jr & Maryse slowly turn round and stare in shock at the smirking Bischoff. The camera then cuts to a shot of the stunned Million Dollar Man at the announce table. Bischoff turns round to face the announce desk.

Eric Bischoff: Why don’t you come join us too dad? I think it’s best we all got this out in the open at last don’t you think?. . . You two are very clever I have t’ say. You’ve well an’ truly pulled the wool over ev’ryone’s eyes haven’t you? And the plan worked too it didn’t it? You’re standing here as the Intercontinental Champion. . . Do you still think I’m on a fishing trip? Have I got this wrong? No I haven’t have I? I’ll never f’get hearing you brag to that bimbo there about this genius plan you an’ your dad came up with to not just screw Kofi Kingston out of the Intercontinental Championship but t’ take out Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler as well, just so daddy dearest was right on hand when the time was right. . . Hey it worked perfectly, except not for the first time and surely not the last your big mouth got you in trouble. . . I have to ask; did you really think you were going t’ get away with it? How far were your prepared t’ go huh? You’d have been happy if I’d never woke up, and f’ what? A title! One title means that much t’ you? Clearly it does. You had no problem beating the crap out of me when you realised I’d heard all this did y’Ted?

Bischoff stares right at the now uncomfortable looking Intercontinental Champion.

Eric Bischoff: Y’see folks, I had some time t’ think about it before I decided t’ confront Ted here, only when I told him what I’d heard, he didn’t think when you’re gonna wish you had, trust me. . . And that brings me to you.

Bischoff turns round to face The Million Dollar Man.

Eric Bischoff: I can’t believe I didn’t suspect a thing when you so generously offered t’ take The King’s place after your boy attacked him. I mean you just happened t’ be there offering me your services. Well guess what? You’re not gonna be there any longer. You’ve called your last match here Ted, and like I told Regal a few moments ago, YOU’RE FIRED!. . . Gentleman if you don’t mind, I’d like you to escort this man out of the arena. Not all of you. I don’t want boy wonder here taking another shot at me.

Four of the security team get in the ring and grab hold of DiBiase Sr, who glares right at Bischoff.

Eric Bischoff: You might think you’re untouchable just because you were brought up with ev’rything a kid could ever want an’ more, but let me remind you that isn’t home, this is Raw, my Raw where I make the rules. . . Your fate is in my hands each an’ ev’ry day, and as I said earlier on I have the power t’ make any one of my superstars a living hell. That includes you, and from now on that’s what life is going t’ be like f’ you.

***

Raw
1st September


WWE Intercontinental Championship
Steel Cage Match
The Big Show w/Justin Gabriel vs. Ted DiBiase Jr © w/Maryse

Just as the bell rang and Show stepped towards the defending champion, “No Chance in Hell” played to a barrage of heat from the Michigan crowd. The Big Show immediately turned round and saw The Corporation making their way out to the stage, much to the amusement of the smug DiBiase. It looked as if DiBiase knew something about it, but Show certainly didn’t, and neither did the confused Justin Gabriel who was watching from his mentor’s corner as J.B.L., Vince & Shane McMahon, all looking very serious, walked down the ramp.

Show’s eyes were locked on them, allowing DiBiase to climb the cage, but then Show did notice as the crowd made it clear something else was going on. He then went after DiBiase with Maryse worrying ever so slightly on the outside, just as The Corporation got to the ring and demanded the key to the cage door from the panicking referee. Gabriel didn’t know what to do initially and then decided to make a stand and help his mentor while the irate Vince snapped and hammered the referee down to the floor before picking up the key.

On the inside, Show dragged DiBiase off the cage and down to the mat, just as Gabriel ran round in to a big boot from JBL and Vince opened the cage door. Show turned round and saw Gabriel hit the floor, and then Vince ordered JBL & Shane in to the ring. Show raised both his fists and prepared for the fight as Vince’s sons entered the ring and rolled their sleeves up after throwing their jackets down to the mat. They then charged at Show together and attacked him with right hands, but Show fought back and gave as good as he got, first sending Shane down and then JBL.

As Shane got back up, Show scoop slammed him back down and DiBiase began crawling towards the cage door with Maryse getting excited on the outside. Vince was looking worried, and with both his sons on the deck, Show turned the attention back to his opponent and grabbed him by the feet. The panic was there for all to see on the face of DiBiase, but Show didn’t count on JBL crawling up behind him on his knees and low blowing him.

The giant fell to his knees and then forward on to his front as DiBiase crawled away and to the door with Vince grinning sadistically on the outside. Maryse ran round to the door and shouted at her boyfriend to escape, and he did just that with ease to an absolute ton of heat from the crowd. He grinned as his feet hit the floor and shook hands with Vince before going to pick up his Intercontinental Championship. He threw the title over his shoulder and headed up the ramp with Maryse and didn’t look back.


***

Later That Night

The Intercontinental Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr is walking smugly through the back with Maryse holding his title belt, but as he turns a corner, he’s met by a waiting Kofi Kingston. The former champion stares at the shocked DiBiase and shoves him up against the wall. Maryse tries to pull Kofi away but he’s having none of it and turns his head to give her a chilling stare of a warning. She’s worried too as Kofi turns round and glares right in to his bitter rival’s eyes.


Kofi Kingston: Listen up you two faced son of a bitch. I’m gonna make you pay f’ screwin’ me over at SummerSlam. Y’better believe it. Y’might’ve got lucky t’night but you ain’t at Unf’given ‘cause I’m gonna take my title back. Y’know, the one y’stole from me in the first place.

Ted DiBiase Jr: Dream on Kofi. You know as well as I do that’s just not going t’ happen.

Kofi smirks and steps back, much to the amusement of DiBiase. As he steps away from the wall, Kofi drills him with a right hand, knocking him down to the floor. Maryse drops to her knees straight away as Kofi looks down intensely at him with Maryse cursing him in French. DiBiase sits up holding his cheek and stares right at Kofi who’s standing over him.

Ted DiBiase Jr: You have no idea how much you’re gonna regret that.

Kofi Kingston: Yeah? We’ll see, but let me tell y’somethin’ champ. Bischoff should be the least o’ your worries.

***

Raw
8th September (Two Weeks Ago)
The Intercontinental Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr walks out to the stage with ‘The Million Dollar Woman’ Maryse. Both of them are dressed very well. Maryse is wearing an elegant but slightly tight black dress while her boyfriend is wearing grey trousers with a white shirt and a grey waistcoat, as well as the Intercontinental title that’s resting on his shoulder. The Million Dollar Couple look fairly serious as they walk down the ramp, not seeming to appreciate the boos that ring the whole way round the Copps Coliseum.

They look disgusted by the crowd’s reaction as they then walk up the steps and enter the ring with DiBiase picking a microphone up off the apron in the process. DiBiase walks in to the middle of the ring and is joined by Maryse as his music stops, and the heat hits them even more. The Intercontinental Champion does his best not to rise to it and stands there staring in to the stands shaking his head. It dies down and frees him to address the Canadian crowd.


Ted DiBiase Jr: I hope you’re still laughing about that cheap shot Kofi because I assure you you won’t be laughing in two weeks. . . Kofi is nothing but a loser, and even though I don’t see what all these people see in Kelly, she deserves a whole lot better than him.

Jerry Lawler: Do you have any idea how sick I am of hearing you run your mouth? I’m pretty sure I’m not the only either.

The King climbs in the ring and gets a dirty look from Maryse, and Ted isn’t best pleased right now either as he stares at the man he put on the shelf not so long ago.

Jerry Lawler: Y’can call Kofi Kingston a loser all y’want, but he’s twice. . . no wait, ten times the man you’ll ever be. . . I’ll tell you something else champ’. Not only is he not a loser. He’s not a coward like you either. You can stand here talking about how great you are an’ how you’re the Intercontinental Champion, but the only reason you’re holding that title is because you went running t’ your dad f’ help.

Ted DiBiase Jr: WHO ASKED YOU HUH KING? WHAT GIVES YOU THE RIGHT T’. . .

“S-O-S, I HEAR ‘EM CALLIN’. . .”

A huge cheer breaks out as Kofi Kingston charges out from behind the curtain and down the ramp, sliding in to send DiBiase & Jackson back pedalling. Kofi steps in front of Lawler and talks smack at them before picking up Lawler’s microphone. Kofi’s friend, Kelly Kelly then is shown walking down the ramp to join him in the ring.


Kofi Kingston: WHY DON’T Y’SHOUT Y’MOUTH F’ ONCE?. . . Y’think y’tough do ya, hidin’ behind your rookie?. . . Well let me tell y’somethin’. He’s not gonna stop me just like you’re not gonna when I TAKE BACK THE INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE AT UNF’GIVEN.

We go back to the tron and Eric Bischoff is not looking too happy in what appears to be his office.

Eric Bischoff: Wherever you go Ted, trouble always seems t’ follow you around. It looks like you’ve been busy though getting yourself some muscle, and I can honestly say I don’t care. . . However as long as he’s on my show, just like ev’ryone else, he’s accountable t’ me and only me. . . Now I couldn’t help but notice your statement of intent t’ do what you didn’t at SummerSlam an’ beat Kofi fair an’ square without any outside help. Well that’s exactly how you’re gonna have t’ do it because you won’t have any help this time. That includes your new rookie, your girlfriend and ev’ry single member of your family. . . In fact, I’m barring ev’ryone who doesn’t have a reason t’ be there from ringside. In fact we’re going to have a sneak preview of that later on t’night, only you won’t be the one in action. That’ll be your rookie, Ezekiel Jackson when he goes one on one with Kofi Kingston.

***

Later That Night

There’s some commotion in the back with officials running through the back towards a dressing room, and we see Kofi Kingston squirming on the floor. Ted DiBiase Jr, Ezekiel Jackson & Maryse are standing over him smirking. Eric Bischoff arrives on the scene and looks pissed to see DiBiase & Co there as the officials check on Kofi, and Bischoff looks towards them.


Eric Bischoff: Is he okay?

Kofi’s struggling to sit up and the officials look concerned.

Official #1: He doesn’t look good boss.

Bischoff turns to the smug DiBiase.

Ted DiBiase Jr: Don’t look at us, we had nothing t’ do with this. We heard some noise an’ just stopped by t’ see what was going on.

Eric Bischoff: Really, an’ what was that? Was he attacked by wild monkeys?

Ted DiBiase Jr: You saw them too?

. . . With DiBiase gone, Bischoff looks down at the squirming Kofi and then sticks his head out of the door.

Eric Bischoff: CAN I GET A MEDIC IN HERE PLEASE? NOW!

The Head of Authority walks back towards Kofi and kneels down as Kelly Kelly walks in to the room. She looks worried and drops to her knees right away.

Eric Bischoff: I’ve just called a medic. We’ll find out any minute. Don’t worry, DiBiase’s gonna pay f’ this.


***

Raw
Last Week

Kofi Kingston
is getting ready for his match coming up later on, and it’s easy to see he’s not in the best of moods to say the least. He’s got a face like thunder, and it gets much worse as he sees the door to his locker room open and Kelly Kelly walk in. Kofi shakes his head as his friend walks towards him and sits down next to him. She looks very sombre tonight, and has difficulty getting Kofi’s attention.

Kelly Kelly: Hey, how you doin’ Kofi? Are you okay?

The former Intercontinental Champion leans forward and laces up his boots, clearly trying to avoid a conversation with Kelly.

Kelly Kelly: Kofi, we need t’ talk. Please listen to what I have t’ say.

Kofi Kingston: . . . Kelly look. I’ve got a big match t’night an’ a bigger one on Sunday. The last thing I care about right now is this.

Kelly Kelly: I thought we were friends Kofi, and you knew that was all we could be.

Kofi Kingston: . . . I ain’t hurt Kel’, I’ve just got a whole lot more important stuff t’ deal with now than you an’ Zack whatever his name is. . . I got screwed out o’ the Intercontinental title at SummerSlam an’ I’ve got a shot at gettin’ it back in less than a week. Whatever y’do Kel’ is your business. I ain’t got time f’ this right now, y’got that?

Kelly Kelly: I got it. I’m sorry Kofi. I’m sorry things have turned out like this but I think it’s for the best if we don’t hang out anymore.

Kofi Kingston: Whatever.

Kelly stands up looking sad with Kofi blanking her and going back to lacing up his boots. Kelly walks out of the room and Kofi looks up, not happy at all. He pulls his untied boot off his left foot and throws it in to the wall with the camera zooming in on him before fading out.

***

Later That Night

Kofi Kingston, Matt Hardy, Gregory Helms & Shannon Moore
vs. Ted DiBiase Jr, Cody Rhodes, Joe Hennig & Ezekiel Jackson w/Maryse & The Bella Twins

Ted made a cover but somehow the battle scarred Kofi kicked out before the ref could count to three. The Intercontinental Champion surprisingly took it on the chin and stood back up, shifting behind the squirming Kingston, stalking him seemingly for Dream Street when just like last week during Zack Ryder’s match with Mystico, a gong hit and the lights went out to a deafening pop. The lights were off for a few seconds, and when they came back on, there was no sign of The Undertaker, also just like last week. It was met by boos and confusion by DiBiase, who took a good long round. With his eye off the ball, he didn’t see Kofi getting back up.

And as he turned back to face Kofi, the African nailed him with the Trouble in Paradise to a big pop. Everyone else was still shocked and didn’t react quick enough to stop Kofi making the cover and the ref counting to three. Hennig, Rhodes & Jackson looked on in shock and anger as Kofi stood up and got his arm raised, staring down with intent at the man he’ll challenge this Sunday in a SummerSlam rematch. Matt, Helms & Moore joined him in the ring and congratulated him, winding up Rhodes & Hennig, but Kofi’s attention was firmly on the groggy & irate DiBiase who sat up staring at him with Kofi staring right back.


*Cut to the Arena*



*Match #5*



WWE Intercontinental Championship
Kofi Kingston vs. Ted DiBiase Jr ©

Last 10+ Minutes:
Kofi makes his way back up, on top of DiBiase who struggles back up to his feet. Kofi’s extremely focused and uses his feet to batter the champion with a series of stiff kicks to the stomach, hurting DiBiase Jr who has no answer and falls down on to one knee. Kofi’s been fired up from the start, more so than usual, and he turns back to run the ropes. DiBiase shoots up though as Kofi comes running back, right in to a FALLING CLOTHESLINE!. . . . .

Ted Jr’s still smarting as he gets up on his knees, just staring down intensely at Kofi. The challenger’s looking sore after the clothesline but he’s fighting on, picking himself back up with Ted doing the same. The champ’s up first and he’s right on Kofi, stomping him in the gut and pulling his head under his arm. DiBiase doesn’t waste any time and lifts Kofi vertically up in to the air, falls back in to the mat for a suplex.

Kofi’s back hits the mat hard and Ted sits up not looking satisfied. He stands up with the bit between his teeth and walks towards the corner with Kingston squirming uncomfortably. DiBiase turns round and pulls himself up on to the second rope, takes a quick dirty look at Kofi and jumps off, down on to Kofi’s chest with a DOUBLE FOOT STOMP!!. . . . . Kofi sits up and screams out, but Ted dives down on top of him to make a quick cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Kofi kicks out, but Ted doesn’t look too surprised and goes right back to work. His eyes are firmly fixed on Kofi as he rolls on to his side, still hurting. Kofi’s resilient though and fights through the pain to try and get back up. DiBiase’s got a plan and shifts behind him, and as Kofi makes it up to his feet, the champion ducks down and sticks his head between Kofi’s legs.

He stands up with Kingston up on his shoulders and then sits down, throwing Kofi forward and sending him crashing in to the mat with the ELECTRIC CHAIR!!. . . . . Kofi lands right on his face & chest and DiBiase stares down at his lifeless opponent. The champ looks a lot calmer, seeming confident it’s over and he slowly crawls forward, turns the dead weight of Kofi’s body over and covers him with the ref dropping down to his knees to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

NO! Kofi just about gets his shoulder up, pissing Ted Jr off. He leans back, not happy and jumps on top of Kofi’s chest. He grabs him by the head and pulls it up off the mat to nail him with a succession of right hands to the skull. The ref steps in and gives him a warning, but Ted is fuming. He’s solely focused on Kofi and stands up, bringing the defenceless African up with him.

He whips the challenger in to the ropes, and Kofi has no answer as he comes flying back in to a FLAPJACK!!. . . . . Kofi’s head is sent crashing in to the canvas again, and instead of going for a cover, the Intercontinental Champion hops up to his feet. DiBiase’s got his game face on as he makes his way to the corner and pulls himself up to the second rope again.

He turns round and stares with contempt at his out of it opponent, face down on the mat and not moving. Ted Jr jumps off the ropes and drives his fist in to the back of his rival’s head, inflicting yet more damage on his opponent. Kofi’s still not moving and DiBiase rolls him over on to his back, leans forward and hooks Kofi’s legs for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

No, shoulder up from Kofi! Ted sits up and looks up in frustration as Kofi opens his eyes and tries to lift his head up. DiBiase shakes his head and stands back up, not rushing with Kofi slowly trying to get back up too. Kofi’s clearly hurt as he claws his way up with DiBiase heading to the apron once again.

Ted Jr climbs all the way up to the top rope, waiting desperately for Kofi to get back up, and as he does, the Intercontinental Champion jumps off. He comes down for a double axe handle but Kofi kicks him in the gut, shifts round, acting quickly and S.O.S!! . . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Ted kicks out and both men make their way back up as quickly as they can. DiBiase kicks Kofi in the chest, but the challenger grabs his boot and spins him round, then kicks him in the gut. Ted Jr slumps forward and Kofi turns round, runs in to the ropes and springboards for a REVERSE ELBOW SMASH!!. . . . . Both men hit the deck to a pop, and it’s Kofi who’s up first.

Ted’s not far behind him and turns round in to a standing dropkick from the African Sensation. The fans are cheering as Kofi gets some momentum going. The rattled DiBiase picks himself back up with Kofi beating him up. The challenger whips him hard in to the corner and runs in at him straight away, jumping up to the second rope. He hammers away at his rival with a series of right hands, and the fans are cheering & counting along, all the way to ten.

He jumps back down and monkey flips the champion out of the corner, and DiBiase lands hard on the mat. Kofi’s feeling it now and hits the ropes at speed, comes back and drops both legs on Ted’s chest with the BOOM DROP!!. . . . . The fans are getting even louder as Kofi shimmies round and covers DiBiase with the fans counting too along with the referee. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

No! DiBiase kicks out, but Kofi shakes off the disappointment in a flash. He jumps up to his feet and runs to the apron. Ted makes his way back up as Kofi hops up to the top rope, waiting for Ted to turn his way. Kofi gets what he wants and dives off, landing on DiBiase’s chest for a HIGH ANGLE CROSS BODY!. . . . . The champion falls back with Kofi on top of him, holding on for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

DiBiase kicks out, disappointing the sighing crowd. Kofi’s not letting it get to him and makes his way back up with DiBiase rolling towards the ropes. Ted Jr uses the ropes to get back up, and as he turns round, the challenger runs at him and sends him down to the floor below with a thunderous clothesline. There’s a huge cheer going round the Cow Palace as the fired up Kofi gets the crowd going, throwing his fist in the air, watching DiBiase crawl around on all fours.

He makes it back to the apron and tries to climb on to it. He grabs the second rope but doesn’t count on Kofi running at him and hitting him with a rope aided sit down dropkick to the chest, and DiBiase hits the floor again to another big pop. Kofi sits there on the mat smiling at the sight of DiBiase scrambling around on the floor. The fans in the front row in front of DiBiase stand up and taunt him as he tries to get back up.

Kofi stands back up and watches Ted fight the ref’s count, and as it gets to eight, DiBiase desperately throws himself on to the apron and under the bottom rope to break the count. Kofi urges him to get back up, and he does with Kofi instantly turning back in to the ropes. DiBiase walks away from the ropes and ducks an oncoming jumping clothesline from Kofi.

The challenger manages to land on his feet and stop himself from falling. Both men turn round right away and KOFI STRIKES FIRST WITH A LEG FEED ENZUIGIRI!!!. . . . . Cheers break out in the stands as DiBiase falls forward and Kofi scurries forward, turns DiBiase over on to his back to make a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

NO!

The Intercontinental Champion keeps his title reign going, for maybe just a matter of minutes. For the first time, Kofi looks disappointed. He leans back and runs his hands over his head as DiBiase lifts his head up looking all over place. Grudgingly, Kofi gets back up and kneels down to pull the dazed champion up to his feet, then whips him in to the corner.

DiBiase hits the pads back first and Kofi takes a second before running at him and in to a raised boot from DiBiase. It sends Kofi staggering out of the corner and DiBiase runs out in to the ropes, runs back at Kofi, and the challenger fights back with a JUMPING HEEL KICK!!. . . . . Both men hit the mat and Kofi makes his way up to his feet again. He walks the short distance in to the corner and steps through the ropes with DiBiase sitting up.

Kofi climbs up on to the top rope, and DiBiase sees him and panics. He throws himself forward, diving on to the ropes with the shell shocked Kofi falling in to a seated position on the top rope. DiBiase gets his breath back with a relieved smug look on his face as he looks at the crowd. He picks himself back up and pulls Kofi’s head down, setting him up for a ROPE HUNG STUNNER!!!. . . . . Kofi’s in dangerous territory and can’t defend himself.

DiBiase composes himself and then hits it, DRILLING KOFI’S HEAD DOWN IN TO THE CANVAS!!!. . . . . The challenger’s lights are completely wiped out and DiBiase could be on the brink of victory. Ted Jr wastes no time in scurrying round to drag Kofi away from the ropes and turn him over so he can hook his leg for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO! Kofi gets his shoulder up, setting off a big pop in the stands, much to the shock & anger of the defending champion. DiBiase bangs his fist against the canvas in absolute frustration. The Intercontinental Champion looks around in bewilderment. He doesn’t seem to know what he has to do to put him away, and the anger grows as he sees Kofi coming round, trying to move around. DiBiase stares down angrily at him yet again and stands up, beginning to stalk him for what would appear to be Dream Street, but Kofi looks like he could already be on Dream Street.

His eyes are all over the place as he tries to make it up to his knees, not knowing that Ted is behind him, and DiBiase is chomping at the bit, getting ready to finish the job. He’s desperate for Kofi to get up, and with the crowd trying to warn him, Kofi makes it back up but doesn’t have time to steady himself. DiBiase pounces on him immediately, grabbing him in to place for DREAM STREET!!!. . . . . The fans are panicking like mad, and so is Kofi. He knows he’s in danger and fights it, forcing Ted back in to the pads.

The hold’s broken and the fans cheer as Kofi steps out of the corner, still in a bad way. He takes a couple of seconds to compose himself before turning round, and the rattled champion staggers out with Kofi jumping in to the air, TROUBLE IN PARADISE!!!. . . . . NO! TED DUCKS IT AND KOFI HITS THE DECK!!. . . . . TED REACTS QUICKLY THOUGH TO ROLL KOFI UP AND RESTS BOTH HIS FEET ON THE ROPE FOR LEVERAGE AS THE REF MAKES THE COUNT. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

Kofi kicks out, forcing Ted off him. Both men pick themselves up as quickly as they can looking so determined. Ted thinks he has the upper hand and whips Kofi in to the ropes, but the challenger reverses it and sends DiBiase in to them. The champion hits them and holds on to the top rope, much to Kofi’s displeasure. He doesn’t hang around and runs right at his rival, and Ted strikes, turning to the side and lifting his elbow up in to Kofi’s face.

The challenger is sent staggering away, bringing a wry smile to the face of the champion. Kofi turns back round slightly dazed, and DiBiase charges at him, BUT KOFI COUNTERS, HITTING THE TROUBLE IN PARADISE OUT OF NOWHERE!!!. . . . . DiBiase falls to the mat and rolls to the side with the crowd cheering as Kofi looks to take advantage, scurrying across on his hands & knees to make the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

FOOT ON THE ROPE!!!. . . . . DiBiase survives and Kofi can’t believe it. He sits up and sees the foot staring him in the face, but he reacts quickly to pull Ted away from the ropes and cover him again, hooking both legs this time. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO! DiBiase gets his shoulder up, and the disappointment is there for all to see on the face of Kingston. He sits up again and hits the canvas himself this time as DiBiase turns himself over on to his side. The groggy champion crawls towards the ropes and uses them to pull himself back up to his feet. Kofi follows him, but DiBiase swings his elbow back in to his head again and slips behind him in a flash, lifting him up on to his shoulder for a side suplex. WAIT! KOFI FLIPS BACK AND LANDS ON HIS FEET! DIBIASE CAN’T BELIEVE IT AND TURNS ROUND, RIGHT IN TO AN INSIDE CRADLE!!! . . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

Kick out by the champion. Both men hurry back up to their feet and DiBiase turns round with Kofi going for the TROUBLE IN PARADISE AGAIN!!!. . . . . TED DUCKS IT AND KOFI HITS THE DECK!!!. . . . . DIBIASE’S EYES LIGHT UP AND HE SHIFTS BEHIND KOFI AS THE CHALLENGER TRIES TO GET BACK UP!. . . . . KOFI’S IN TROUBLE HIMSELF AND DIBIASE GRABS HIM FROM BEHIND. . . . . DREAM STREET!!!. . . . . HE HITS IT. . . . . KOFI’S OUT OF IT AND THE DESPERATE CHAMPION TURNS HIM OVER TO MAKE THE COVER. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

YES! IT’S OVER! DIBIASE RETAINS!


Winner: By pinfall, and still the Intercontinental Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr.

Aftermath: “Pricesless” plays to a ton of heat as DiBiase leans back on his knees and lifts both his arms up in to the air, looking totally overjoyed with his victory. The referee goes to collect his title belt and comes back with it, and DiBiase looks so happy to see it. He’s handed it and lifts it in to the air proudly while getting his other arm raised by the ref. The fans continue to boo him, but it doesn’t bother the delighted champion one bit.

He walks over to the ropes and lifts the title up in the air one more time, looking very pleased with himself as Kofi comes round behind him. DiBiase turns round and drops the title on to his shoulder, then takes a look at his beaten opponent with a big smile on his face. He then walks over to the ropes facing the ramp and takes his leave, walking up the ramp to the stage.

He turns round and poses with his title again, smirking at Kofi who’s now sitting up in the ring, not looking too happy at all. He drives his fist in to the mat twice and stares back at the proud champion, and Ted gets a kick out of seeing Kofi pissed like that. He smirks back at him and turns round to walk to the back leaving the defeated & frustrated Kofi in the ring all by himself.


*Cut Backstage*


The smoking hot Leticia Cline is standing by at the interview set.


Leticia Cline: Joining me at this time is the number one contender for the W-W-E Championship, Randy Orton.

The camera zooms out so we can see Randy Orton and his rookie, Darren Young stood alongside Leticia. The Viper is very focused, and his rookie is also looking very serious tonight too.

Leticia Cline: Randy, thanks for joining me. Later on t’night as we all know, you will be taking on Batista for the W-W-E title. How are you feeling about your chances of leaving Unf’given as the new W-W-E Champion?

Randy Orton: I’ve been feeling confident ever since I became the last man standing in the battle royal to get this opportunity I’ve worked for ever since the title that should still be mine was taken away from me. T’night it’s one on one, man t’ man, and Monday night I showed that it when it comes down to it, I’ve got Batista’s number. All I need is that one second to beat Batista like I proved when I caught him with the R-K-O, just like I will t’night. Not only will I do that, I’m gonna take Batista out t’night, just like I took out Triple H two weeks ago, and finally I will finally finish the job I set out to after WrestleMania, to take back my W-W-E Championship. There’s nothing Batista or anyone else for that matter can do about it. I will walk out of this building as the new W-W-E Champion.

Orton stares in to the camera, meaning every word he’s just said with the cameraman zooming in on his face.


*Video Recap*

SummerSlam
Last Month


WWE Championship
Elimination Chamber Match
Batista (c) vs. John Cena vs. Rey Mysterio vs. Randy Orton
vs. The Big Show vs. John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield w/Vince & Shane McMahon

JBL gets back up too and walks across the ring with a real mean look on his face. He slaps Show on the shoulder and gives him some more instructions, gesturing with his right hand, seemingly calling for him to drill Rey. JBL ushers Show back and drags the struggling and battered Rey back up to his feet. He holds on to him as Show gets ready to knock him out. The fans are concerned, and so are Cena & Batista.

JBL gets him up and Show’s composure disappears as he runs at Rey and swings his huge closed fist, but Rey ducks and Show drills JBL with the KNOCK OUT PUNCH!!!. . . . . The fans cheer and the lights go out as the spotlight flashes between the pods with Show in shock, as are Vince & Shane. The looming arrival of the next entrant takes Show’s attention away as the light stops on Cena’s pod, and he urges the ref to open the door, and he does. As the lights come back on with Show staring at Cena, Rey shimmies round on the mat and covers JBL. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3!

JBL has been eliminated!

Show turns round in shock as Cena races through the ropes. Show holds his head in his hands, but Cena takes him by surprise him, spinning him round and lifting him off the mat and on to his shoulders. The fans are going nuts as Cena then sends him crashing down to the mat with the F U!!!. . . . . Cena drops to the mat and covers the big man with the fans counting along with the referee as he counts the giant’s shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3!

The Big Show has been eliminated!

Vince & Shane watch on with disgust, shaking their heads as Cena stands back up with Mysterio still a little groggy as he sits up and sees Cena. Show comes round, as does JBL. They sit up and look towards each other with Layfield steaming and Show looking very uneasy. Cena seems to be getting a kick out of it as both men get to their feet, and so does Rey, using the ropes and leaning against them as the livid JBL walks towards Show and gets right in his face. The giant tries to explain and apologise, but JBL doesn’t want to hear it. The referee steps between them and tries to break them up and get them to leave the chamber, but they’re not budging and JBL shoves Show.

The big man thinks about it and lets it go, looking to the side as JBL then shoves him again, and now Show reacts, snapping and shoving JBL down on to his back and on to the mat. The fans cheer and Show stares down at him, not sure how to react. He then looks at both Shane & Vince who are fuming outside the steel structure. He then turns round and leaves the chamber, stomping up the apron with an irate JBL staring right through him. Show doesn’t look back as JBL then gets up and leaves the ring too as he’s instructed to by the referee.


***

Raw
18th August (24 Hours Later)


The Main Event
Battle Royal
Number One Contendership Match for the WWE Championship at Unforgiven

As Show was looking down at Matt on the floor, JBL stepped back and then tried to lift Show’s feet off the mat and over the ropes, not that it worked. Show swung his arm back and glared right at JBL, who pleaded for mercy before trying to joke about it. Show was furious and knocked him out with his huge right hand before dragging him up and tossing him out. Vince & Shane were seething on the outside, but as Show glared down at him, Cena managed to do what JBL couldn’t and lifted him off his feet and down to the floor. As the two Corporation members stood up on the outside, they went at it with Vince & Shane failing to separate them as they fought to the back.

***

Raw
25th August

A deadly serious Vince McMahon makes his way through the curtain and out to the stage, followed by his two sons, Shane McMahon & John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield. They’re not in a great mood tonight either, and they don’t take the boos that well either. All three men stare angrily in to the crowd as they take their time walking down the ramp before heading in to the ring with Vince going to get a microphone from Lilian Garcia. Shane & JBL continue to stare at the booing crowd as Vince then walks back to join them in the middle of the ring, and the music comes to a standstill.


Vince McMahon: Had it not been for that giant liability, the W-W-E Championship would be where it should be, in the hands of The Corporation. At SummerSlam he was a walking disaster. He was solely responsible for The Corporation walking away empty handed from the elimination chamber, all because he’s a big, clumsy, useless failure. . . He brought ridicule to my name, something that I will not accept under any circumstances. Never in my life have I been a failure, and neither have my sons. We’ve never accepted failure and we never will. That is why I took the decision to get rid of The Big Show so that we can regain the reputation the McMahons have upheld for years an’ years. . . We don’t need The Big Show and we never did. The only people we can rely on is each other, and from this day forward. . .

“Crank It Up”

The Corporation members turn to look up at the stage as The Big Show walks out and glares down at them. Their eyes are locked on the seven-footer as he slowly makes his way down the ramp and to the ring, picking up a microphone up off the steps in the process. He enters the ring and the tension is there for all to see.


Vince McMahon: What the hell do you think you’re doing huh? Who do you think you are to interrupt me?

The Big Show: What am I doing out here?. . . Hmm. Well Vince I’m out here to set the record straight. . . I admit I made a mistake at SummerSlam when I accidentally knocked J-B-L out, but I’ve got t’ say I wasn’t sorry. I’d been dying to that f’ weeks. . . I’ve waited a long time t’ do that John. Do you have any idea how annoying you are?

JBL: . . . ANNOYING? BECAUSE OF YOU I’M NOT THE W-W-E CHAMPION. THAT’S WHAT I CALL ANNOYING YOU OVERGROWN BUFFOON.

Show smirks, firing JBL up even more.

JBL: How dare you laugh at me. How dare you laugh at me after ev’rything you’ve done t’ me and my family. We brought you back t’ this company, gave you a second chance and you threw it back in our face. Then after all that you have the nerve to come out here and make jokes about our family, the family that made this business what it is t’day. . . You more than anyone should know that you shouldn’t cross us. You know that sooner or later you will have to face the consequences, the consequences of damaging the McMahon family name. . .

The Big Show: . . . Is that supposed t’ scare me? Do I look scared t’ you?. . . You wanna talk about jokes John? Well there’s no bigger joke than you. . . You’re all mouth. You’re a coward. You get other people t’ do your dirty work for you, just like your dad. You’re all gutless.

JBL shakes his head and turns round momentarily to look at Vince & Shane but quickly turns back and throws a wild right at Show. The giant grabs his hand and laughs at him, then nails him with a right hand, sending him down to the mat. Shane then charges at him and Show grabs him before headbutting him, putting Shane on the mat too, leaving Show & Vince the only ones standing up in the ring. The crowd cheer like crazy as Show walks slowly towards the panic stricken head of The Corporation.

Show smiles and then grabs him around the throat for a chokeslam, getting the crowd going even more. Vince is scared to death as Show prepares to lift him off his feet, but he doesn’t get the chance as JBL gets up behind Show and clubs him across the back. Vince is freed and takes some deep breaths as both he & Shane watch on as JBL urges Show to get back up, and he does just that.

JBL runs the ropes and comes back looking to hit the Clothesline from Hell, but Show ducks his head as JBL puts the brakes on and turns round in a hurry. Show grabs him around the throat and chokeslams him down in to the canvas to a big cheer and to the shock of Vince & Shane. They quickly slip out of the ring as “Crank it Up” hits with The Big Show glancing intensely at both Vince & Shane, who look both very concerned and angry with JBL laid out in the ring.


***

Raw
1st September


WWE Intercontinental Championship
Steel Cage Match
The Big Show w/Justin Gabriel vs. Ted DiBiase Jr © w/Maryse

Just as the bell rang and Show stepped towards the defending champion, “No Chance in Hell” played to a barrage of heat from the Michigan crowd. The Big Show immediately turned round and saw The Corporation making their way out to the stage, much to the amusement of the smug DiBiase. It looked as if DiBiase knew something about it, but Show certainly didn’t, and neither did the confused Justin Gabriel who was watching from his mentor’s corner as J.B.L., Vince & Shane McMahon, all looking very serious, walked down the ramp.

Show’s eyes were locked on them, allowing DiBiase to climb the cage, but then Show did notice as the crowd made it clear something else was going on. He then went after DiBiase with Maryse worrying ever so slightly on the outside, just as The Corporation got to the ring and demanded the key to the cage door from the panicking referee. Gabriel didn’t know what to do initially and then decided to make a stand and help his mentor while the irate Vince snapped and hammered the referee down to the floor before picking up the key.

On the inside, Show dragged DiBiase off the cage and down to the mat, just as Gabriel ran round in to a big boot from JBL and Vince opened the cage door. Show turned round and saw Gabriel hit the floor, and then Vince ordered JBL & Shane in to the ring. Show raised both his fists and prepared for the fight as Vince’s sons entered the ring and rolled their sleeves up after throwing their jackets down to the mat. They then charged at Show together and attacked him with right hands, but Show fought back and gave as good as he got, first sending Shane down and then JBL.

As Shane got back up, Show scoop slammed him back down and DiBiase began crawling towards the cage door with Maryse getting excited on the outside. Vince was looking worried, and with both his sons on the deck, Show turned the attention back to his opponent and grabbed him by the feet. The panic was there for all to see on the face of DiBiase, but Show didn’t count on JBL crawling up behind him on his knees and low blowing him. The giant fell to his knees and then forward on to his front as DiBiase crawled away and to the door with Vince grinning sadistically on the outside.

Maryse ran round to the door and shouted at her boyfriend to escape, and he did just that with ease to an absolute ton of heat from the crowd. He grinned as his feet hit the floor and shook hands with Vince before going to pick up his Intercontinental Championship. He threw the title over his shoulder and headed up the ramp with Maryse and didn’t look back as JBL & Shane stood up and watched Show squirm while a shaken Gabriel sat up on the floor. Show then started to stir, and as he did so, Gabriel pushed his way past Vince, who wasn’t looking at him.

Show’s rookie dived in under the ropes and went flying at Shane, knocking him down from behind before going at JBL. They exchanged blows and Gabriel fired him back in to the ropes, but as he tried for an irish whip, JBL reversed it and once again caught him with a big boot. The angry Texan stared down with nothing but contempt at Gabriel, and then dragged him back up, setting him up for the Last Call, and he hit it, just as Show was getting back up to his knees with the salivating Vince watching on. Shane too was back up and JBL nodded at him, then stepped back.

Layfield then wound his right arm up and hit the ropes before connecting with a Clothesline from Hell. It knocked Show off balance, astounding JBL who panicked and hit the ropes again to hit him with a second Clothesline from Hell, and this time it sent the big man down. Both Shane & JBL dragged his almost dead weight body in to the corner and sat him up against the pads, and Shane left the cage to have a look under the apron where he pulled out a trash can. Vince was loving what he was seeing as Shane got back inside and set it up in position in between the ropes.

Shane-O-Mac then hit the adjacent corner and scaled the dizzy heights of the top rope with the fans booing, then he took the giant leap to hit the Coast to Coast. It was met by more boos as you would expect, as well as an applause from his father, who went to Lilian Garcia and took her microphone. He then joined his sons and the motionless Show & Gabriel, and all three members of The Corporation were smiling and admiring their work, but Vince’s was more sadistic.
Vince McMahon: I’ve put up with this ridiculous situation long enough. This is my company DAMNIT and I’m sick of being told what t’ do on my own show, so I’m making a decision right here right now. . . At Unf’given Show, you’re going t’ be in action, against me, VINCENT KENNEDY MCMAHON. . . and both my sons, Shane an’ J-B-L in a handicap match. And I promise, this is nothing compared t’ what we’ll do t’ you an’ this snot nosed punk if he gets in our way again.

***

Raw
8th September (Two Weeks Ago)

The Corporation
walk out to the stage, all smirking and revelling in the boos being thrown in their direction. Vince McMahon and both his sons, Shane & John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield make their way down the ramp, chuckling at the fans in the process.

Vince McMahon: When I said last Monday night that I am sick an’ tired of being told what t’ do on my own show, I wasn’t joking. This is my creation and it’s farcical that my hands have been tied as far as running this show is concerned. That’s why I said last week that I’m taking the power back and that at Unf’given, we as a unit, The Corporation will take on the world’s largest athlete in a handicap match.

“Back in Black”

A big pop breaks out as Eric Bischoff, Raw’s Head of Authority walks out to the stage with a microphone in his possession. He’s looking fairly relaxed, and the same can’t be said for The Corporation now as they turn and look up at him.


Eric Bischoff: Vince, technically it is your show. However as far as the decisions are made, it’s my show. . . Now as far as this match you’ve decided you’re going to be in at Unf’given against The Big Show, I’m the one who makes the final decision on whether I feel that’s appropriate or not. I’m sure when you were running Raw with your own agenda, a three on one handicap match sounded like a good idea didn’t it? That’s exactly why I’m the sole authority figure now, and let me make this clear for you Vince. You will not be facing The Big Show in a three on one handicap match at Unf’given.

“Crank It Up”

A big pop breaks out as The Big Show and his rookie Justin Gabriel join Bischoff on the stage. Both are dressed casually and Show has a microphone, but neither of them appears to be in the best of moods after what went down last week. They stare down at The Corporation and Show casually shakes hands with Bischoff.


The Big Show: Y’know after last week, the thought of a handicap match at Unf’given sounds pretty good. . . Eric, if you don’t mind, I’d like to accept their challenge of a handicap match at Unf’given. . . Oh before I f’got t’ say that when I said I’m okay with a handicap match, I mean a three on two handicap match with my rookie, Justin Gabriel as my partner.

Eric Bischoff: I guess that’s fair. Now it’s official. In less than two weeks at Unf’given it’s going t’ be Vince an’ Shane McMahon and John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield taking on Justin Gabriel an’ The Big Show in a handicap match. . . As far as Unf’given’s concerned, we’re all set. The same can’t be said f’ t’night, well until now. . . Later on in our main event we’re going to have ourselves a sneak preview of Unf’given, because right here live on Raw t’night it’s going t’ be The Big Show going one on one with. . . John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield.

Show smiles, but there’s no smiling going on in the ring from The Corporation. Gabriel though turns to Show and asks for the microphone.

Justin Gabriel: Show I know how much you want t’ get your hands on J-B-L but I’d really like the chance to take your place and face him myself t’night. . . They didn’t just attack you last week, they attacked me too. This is a big chance for me and if we’re going t’ be partners at Unf’given, I could do with some experience like they said. What d’ y’think?

The Big Show (No microphone): You’re sure about this?

Justin Gabriel: Definitely.

Eric Bischoff: I think that’s a great idea. You’re on. It’ll be Justin Gabriel an’ J-B-L one on one HERE T’NIGHT. . . However there’s a catch. I’m gonna make this a bit more int’resting for ev’ryone. I’m gonna raise the stakes a little. . . See John if you win t’night, next week The Big Show will have t’ run the gauntlet against each member of The Corporation. . . On the other hand if you lose, next week will see The Big Show going one on one with Vince McMahon.

“Crank It Up” plays to a pop with The Corporation not looking as confident again in the ring while Show & Gabriel stare down at them smiling, as does Bischoff.

***

Later That Night

Justin Gabriel w/The Big Show vs. John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield w/Vince & Shane McMahon

JBL had stolen the ascendency, but once again Gabriel hung on to fight another day by getting his shoulder up at the count of two. JBL was fuming and the ref was concerned for Gabriel, and went to check on the rookie as he tried to make it back up. There was no concern for him from JBL or the rest of The Corporation though as Layfield sized his opponent up. Looking unsteady as he stood back up, Gabriel turned round to see JBL charging at him and lift his boot up to drive it down his throat, but the South African ducked in time, only for JBL to drill the referee with his massive boot instead. Layfield was stunned, as was Gabriel, but it was the youngster who reacted first to take JBL down with an STO.

Vince panicked and gave Shane an order, resulting in Shane-O-Mac throwing himself under the bottom rope and in to the ring. Show was stunned and warned Gabriel right away, who turned round in to a falling clothesline. Show was fuming and joined in the action, not pleasing Shane one bit. He tried begging for mercy, but he didn’t get any and Show grabbed him for a chokeslam. He took his time and was waiting for the crowd’s reaction, while at the same time, JBL was getting back up just to the side of him. Show saw him moving and shoved Shane down to the canvas, then nailed Layfield with the knockout punch to a big pop, just as Gabriel was sitting up.

Shane stood up by the ropes and was quickly clotheslined over the top by the seven foot plus giant, who then turned round and dragged Show closer to the corner. He then looked right at Gabriel and instructed him to go to the top rope, nodding his head at his rookie. Vince was big time worried as he watched from the outside as Gabriel made his way up to the dizzy heights of the top rope with JBL lying helplessly several feet beneath him. The crowd were cheering as Gabriel looked in to the stands and Show tried to shake the ref to life. Gabriel then jumped up in to the air and connected with a 450 splash to a huge pop.

Vince was furious as he saw the referee come round and slowly crawl across to make the count, an agonising slow count that eventually made it to three to give Gabriel a huge debut victory. Show was smiling just as widely as Gabriel was as he raised his hand in front of the fuming Vince, and Shane too as he sat up on the floor with “Crank It Up” playing. Gabriel then made his way to the corner and climbed up to the second rope posing for the jubilant crowd while Show walked towards the apron and smiled down at the pissed duo of Vince & Shane as this week’s show came to a close, knowing that next week he’ll be facing Vince live on Raw.


***

Raw
Last Week


The Big Show w/Justin Gabriel vs. Vince McMahon w/J.B.L. & Shane McMahon

The seven-footer stepped forward and drove his fist in to Vince’s face, but Mr. McMahon ducked and the referee was the one to get his lights knocked out. Vince breathed a deep sigh of relief as the stunned Show looked down at the referee lying at his feet. Gabriel was shocked too, but he was even more so a couple of seconds later when his mentor turned round to see Vince drop to his knees and low blow the giant. Shane & JBL applauded their father on the outside, and with the ref down they took the chance to join him in the squared circle.

They both took their jackets off and placed them on the top rope with Gabriel now the one concerned with his mentor rolling round in agony on the mat and the entire Corporation standing over him. The rookie then decided to fight fire with fire as JBL was getting ready to strike. Gabriel slid in the ring and hammered him from side on, then unleashed a ferocious kick to the back of his ankle that sent JBL down to his knees. Vince & Shane pounced on the South African youngster, but he was gutsy and fought them both off with help from Show, who was now back on his feet. Show tossed Shane over the top rope and then kicked JBL square in the head.

Vince’s turn was next as he was grabbed around the throat and planted with a chokeslam to a huge pop from the Idaho crowd. Gabriel looked at Show with a twinkle in his eye, getting a smile out of his mentor. Gabriel then dragged Vince in to the corner and climbed up to the top rope with the fans cheering. The South African looked in to the stands with a big smile on his face before leaping up in to the sky and coming down on top of Vince with the 450 splash. The fans were going nuts as Show high fived Gabriel with a pissed JBL sitting up by the ropes. “Crank It Up” played and they threw their arms up in to the air before laughing at the sight of the fallen Chairman of the Board with JBL & Shane sat up watching, fuming at what’s happened to their father.


*Cut to the Arena*



*Match #6*



3 On 2 Handicap Match
The Big Show & Justin Gabriel vs. The Corporation

Last 10+ Minutes:
The Big Show’s in command as he drags Shane back up to his feet with total ease. Shane’s whipped hard in to the corner by the seven-foot plus giant, and Show runs in at him, levelling him with a clothesline. Shane winces in pain but Show’s not done there and tells the crowd to shush, then hits Shane with a big forehand chop to the chest. The crowd gasp, feeling Shane’s pain, but Show’s not showing any sympathy.

He grabs hold of Shane’s shirt with both hands and tosses him out of the corner, sending Shane down to the mat. Shane hits it hard and Show walks towards him, then drops his leg across Shane’s upper torso. There’s pain all over Shane-O-Mac’s face, and the giant shifts round on the canvas to cover Shane, somewhat complacently, not hooking either leg as the ref makes the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Shane gets his shoulder up but he’s still in a bad way, and Show’s enjoying it. He stands up smiling with JBL & Vince looking very concerned for Shane on the apron. The big man looks over at them and steps on to Shane’s chest and over him, causing even more pain for Shane-O-Mac and more amusement for Show & Gabriel. Shane rolls around clutching his stomach and Show turns his attention back to him.

He kneels down and pulls the defenceless heir to the McMahon throne up off the mat, then lifts him up with both his hands above his head for a GORILLA PRESS SLAM!!. . . . . The fans are cheering, but Vince panics for his son and steps through the ropes. The ref sees him and immediately paces across the mat to block him off, freeing JBL to slip in to the ring unnoticed. Show doesn’t see him coming and Layfield chop blocks him in the back of knee, putting Show down.

Shane falls with him and lands awkwardly on the mat. Gabriel storms the ring and goes right for JBL as Vince steps back on to the apron. The ref turns round and steps in Gabriel’s way with JBL backing away with a smirk on his face. Layfield sees Show sitting up and drives his big boot right in to his face, and Show falls back to the mat. Gabriel desperately tries to tell the referee what’s going on, but JBL slips back to the apron unnoticed. He and his father are smiling as the battered Shane crawls across the mat to make the tag to JBL.

The self proclaimed wrestling god enters the ring looking very calm, walking towards the fallen giant and drops his elbow down across Show’s chest. JBL’s not satisfied with just one and stands back up to drop another one, and then another. He jumps right back up to his feet as Show picks himself back up, walking in to a kick to the gut and then a SWINGING NECK BREAKER!!. . . . . JBL looks to strike while the iron’s hot and scurries across on his knees to make a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Show kicks out fairly easily, not resting well with JBL. He gets right back up and pulls Show up from his knees, then tries for an irish whip, but it’s reversed by The Big Show. JBL hits the ropes and comes running back in to a SIDEWALK SLAM!!. . . . . Show takes JBL down and both men make their way back up, and JBL doesn’t look too comfortable, trying to fight on with Show jumping right on him.

He drags JBL up from his knees and positions him between his legs. The giant means business now and lifts JBL high up above his head, then back pedals towards the corner AND THROWS JBL BACK IN TO THE TURNBUCKLE PADS WITH A REVERSE THROWN POWERBOMB!!!. . . . . Even the crowd appear to have sympathy for JBL, but Show doesn’t. He drags him away from the corner by his legs, drops to his knees and makes the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

No! JBL gets his shoulder up, but only just. Show sits up grudgingly but shakes off the disappointment quickly. He returns to his feet and steps away from JBL who’s writhing around on the mat. It takes him a while to get on to his knees with Show ready & waiting, getting ready to strike. He watches patiently as JBL struggles back up to his feet, turns round and walks in to Show’s clutches. The seven-footer grabs him around the throat for the CHOKESLAM!!!. . . . .

The crowd cheers as Show looks in to the stands with JBL at his mercy, but Shane flies in to the ring to save his half brother. Show sees him coming and lets go of JBL, who falls to his knees, but the ref again gets in Shane’s way. Show’s not happy though and walks towards Shane, mouthing off at him as JBL picks himself back up. Shane’s escorted back on to the apron and a disgruntled Show turns round right in to a big boot to the face from the wrestling god.

JBL looks down at the fallen giant with a look of disgust before walking in to his corner to make the tag to Shane. Vince encourages his son, and Shane opts to climb up to the top rope instead of entering the ring. Show remains on the mat after the big boot and Shane dives off, connecting with a GUILLOTINE LEG DROP!!. . . . . He hits it and shifts round on the mat as quick as he can to make a cover, hooking Show’s giant tree trunk of a right leg. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

The Big Show kicks out, and Shane doesn’t look all that surprised. Shane-O-Mac races back up to his feet and urges his opponent to do the same, and as Show somewhat sluggishly makes it back up, Shane stupidly tries to whip the world’s largest athlete in to the ropes. Show reverses it easily and ducks his head, and Shane leapfrogs him as he comes running back. Show’s surprised as he turns round in to a jab from Shane, and then another, and another, shaking the giant.

Shane-O sizes up for the big one, but Show blocks it and headbutts him down to the mat. The fans are cheering and the groggy Shane gets back up to feet with Show looking very focused. He scoop slams Shane back down and drops a big elbow down across his chest, then follows up for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

No! Shane gets his shoulder up, but he’s not looking great right now. Show makes his way back up and heads over to his corner, making the tag to his high-flying rookie, Justin Gabriel. The South African holds the top rope and jumps over it to enter the ring as Shane claws his way back up. With Vince & JBL watching on worriedly in the opposite corner, Gabriel gets ready to strike as Shane gets his balance. Shane-O turns round and is sent back down with a running clothesline from Gabriel.

Shane picks himself back up and Gabriel’s right on him again. He whips Shane in to the corner and runs in at him straight away, jumping up at him with a CROSS BODY!!. . . . . Gabriel lands on the apron and steadies himself as Shane staggers out of the corner. He turns round as the fired up rookie SPRINGBOARDS FOR ANOTHER CROSS BODY!!!. . . . . Shane falls back to the mat with Gabriel on top of him and holding on for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

Kick out from Shane. The crowd are getting right behind the South African, and Gabriel is right back up on his feet. He goes right after Shane, pulling him up to his and nailing him with a hard forearm to the face. With Shane knocked off balance, Gabriel goes for an irish whip, but Shane reverses it, sending Gabriel in to the ropes.

Shane ducks his head and Gabriel runs back with a CORKSCREW FLIP OVER SHANE!!. . . . . Shane panics and turns round to get nailed by a JUMPING HEEL KICK!!. . . . . Another pop breaks out as Gabriel drops to his knees and hooks Shane’s leg for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Kick out from Shane! Gabriel shrugs off the initial disappointment and heads in to the corner, making his way up to the top rope with the fans cheering him on. JBL senses the danger and tries to come to his brother’s rescue, stepping through the ropes. He gets the ref’s attention, and he’s furious with yet another interference attempt from The Corporation.

Vince though runs across the apron with the ref’s back to him and shoves Gabriel off the top, down to the floor below and an uncomfortable landing to say the least. Both Gabriel & Shane are struggling to make it back up, and the crowd try to encourage Show’s rookie. Shane strikes first though and whips him in to the corner, then runs in at him, STINGER SPLASH!!. . . . .

Shane steps back with Gabriel staggering out in to his path, getting a strong kick to the gut and Shane follows it up with a SINGLE ARM DDT!!!. . . . . Gabriel’s head just got driven in to the mat and he isn’t moving. Shane goes for the cover as quickly as he can, hooking Gabriel’s leg as the ref rushes down to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

No, Gabriel gets his shoulder up! The Big Show breathes a sigh of relief on the apron, and Vince & JBL are left frustrated on the opposite side. They clearly thought Shane had the match won for them. Shane doesn’t look happy as he sits up and gives the ref a dirty look. JBL calls for a tag and he gets it. He paces across the mat and drags the dead weight of Gabriel up off the mat and sets him up for a suplex.

The wrestling god lifts him up vertically and hits a suplex. He holds on and twists his hips, going for the THREE AMIGO’S!!. . . . . Gabriel falls victim to another two suplexes, but JBL’s not satisfied. He stands up and drags Gabriel up in to place for the LAST CALL!!!. . . . . Vince & Shane are already celebrating on the apron as JBL lifts the South African up above his head, but Gabriel catches everyone by surprise, especially JBL with a HURRICANRANA!!!. . . . .

A big pop makes its way around the Cow Palace as a shell shocked JBL picks himself back up to his feet with Gabriel clawing his way up to his knees. Layfield tries to help him up, but Gabriel springs up and hammers him with a stiff kick to the gut. JBL is knocked down on to one knee and the young rookie turns back to run the ropes.

He comes racing back at JBL, but the former WWE Champion catches him in midair and sends him flying back courtesy of a FALLAWAY SLAM!!. . . . . Gabriel’s back on the mat, much to the concern of his mentor, The Big Show. Vince & Shane applaud JBL, who sits there on the mat with a smirk on his face. He smiles at his partners before turning round to crawl across and cover the fallen South African. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO! The resilient yet hurting Gabriel gets his shoulder up and Show punches the air on the apron. JBL sits up only slightly frustrated, still looking confident. He makes his way back up and drags Gabriel back up, then fires him in to the ropes, ducking his head in the process. Gabriel takes advantage as he comes running back with a SUNSET FLIP!!! JBL TRIES TO HOLD ON BUT CAN’T AND GABRIEL ROLLS HIM IN TO THE COVER. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

NO! JBL kicks out, driving his boot across the side of Gabriel’s face. Both JBL & Gabriel pick themselves back up, and it’s JBL who makes it up first. He grabs Gabriel by the arm and nails him with a THUNDEROUS SHORT ARM CLOTHESLINE!!. . . . . Gabriel’s writhing around on the mat and JBL stares down at him angrily, and Vince calls out for him to be tagged in. JBL turns his head and doesn’t look so sure, but Vince is insistent.

He walks over and makes the tag. Vince steps through the ropes and walks towards the squirming Gabriel. Vinny Mac stares down at him with contempt and slaps him across the face. The crowd boo and Show’s not happy on the apron, watching closely as Vince watches the South African sit up. Vince brushes his boot across his face, putting Gabriel back down. The sn-iggering Vince talks smack at Gabriel as he claws his way back up on to his knees.

Vince slaps him again and this time pulls him back up, talking more trash before knocking him down with a hard right hand. JBL & Shane share a laugh on the apron as Vince turns in to the ropes, comes back and goes for a leg drop, but Gabriel rolls to the side with Vince hitting the mat. Cheers break out as both Vince & Gabriel make their way back up. Vince is gunning for Gabriel and throws a right hand at him, but Gabriel ducks.

Vince is worried and they turn round to face each other quickly with GABRIEL LEANING BACK AND TAKING HIS HEAD OFF WITH A SUPER KICK!!!. . . . . Vince hits the mat to a big pop and looks out of it! Gabriel falls to his knees and goes a cover, hooking both the legs as the ref hurries round to make the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .

JBL races in to the ring to stop the count, dropping his elbow down on to Gabriel, but the rookie sees him coming and moves out of the way. JBL’s elbow meets his father’s chest, much to the delight of the San Francisco crowd and The Big Show. Shane’s shocked and watches JBL & Gabriel stand up, and the South African connects with an STO!!!. . . . . JBL rolls to the apron and down to the floor, causing Shane to panic. He storms the ring as Gabriel gets back up, and Show spots it.

The seven-footer steps over the ropes and runs out to meet him, knocking him down with a big clothesline that sends Shane flipping over in midair. Shane too rolls off the apron and on to the floor, leaving Gabriel with the groggy Vince. Show goes after Shane, stepping over the rope. Gabriel and the ref keep their eye on the big man, and as Gabriel turns back round, Vince sits up and low blows him with the ref’s back turned to a ton of heat. Vince smirks, still on his knees as Show grabs Shane up and drives his head in to the apron.

Vince makes it back up to his feet and taunts Gabriel, urging him to get up, and slowly he does so. As Show looks on, JBL is looking under the apron and pulls out a rag and a small brown bottle. He pours the contents of the bottle on to the rag, completely unbeknown to everyone in the arena. Gabriel is making it back up and Vince gives him a helping hand, then throws a right hand at him. The rookie blocks it though and kicks him in the gut, then PLANTS HIM WITH A TORNADO DDT TO A BIG POP!!!. . . . . Vince is out of it and Gabriel scurries across quickly on his knees to make a cover with Show watching intently as the ref makes the count. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

NO! Vince somehow manages to get his shoulder up. Gabriel sits up in absolute shock, and even his rookie looks amazed on the outside. JBL stands up and takes a look in the ring, then makes his way round the apron with the rag in his hand. Shane tries to get up in front of Show, and the seven-footer reaches down to grab his head, but Show sneaks up behind him and covers his nose & mouth with the rag, holding it there as Show tries to fight him off.

He can’t though and falls to his knees as Gabriel stands up, unaware as he focuses purely on Vince. He sees Vince is barely moving and drags him in to the corner, then climbs up to the apron for the SHOOTING STAR PRESS!!!. . . . . The fans are on their feet as the rookie looks down at Vince, but with Show now seemingly unconscious on the floor, Shane climbs up on to the apron, distracting both the referee & Gabriel.

The youngster jumps off the apron and makes his way across to him, but the ref is already there trying to get Shane to step down. Shane stays there and JBL has walked round the side of the ring having dropped the rag. He slips inside under the bottom rope and has his sights are set firmly on Gabriel. The fans try to warn him, but with the ref dealing with Shane, Gabriel turns round, then panics to see JBL CHARGING AT HIM AND NAILING HIM WITH THE CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL!!!. . . . .

There’s an absolute barrage of heat coming from the stands as Shane stands firm on the apron arguing with the referee, allowing JBL to drag his father on top of Gabriel, who’s flat on his back and isn’t moving. JBL then gets the hell out of there and Shane drops down to the floor, giving the ref the chance to turn round and go make the count with Vince’s arm on top of Gabriel’s chest. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

3!!!. . . . . IT’S OVER!


Winners: The Corporation by pinfall.

Aftermath: The referee calls for the bell to even more heat from the furious San Francisco crowd. JBL & Shane get in the ring with smug smiles on their faces as they help their father up to his feet, and he too is looking very smug. They raise each other’s arms in the air with “No Chance in Hell” playing, smirking at the irate crowd. The Big Show remains out of it on the floor as Gabriel comes round, lifting his head up off the mat, much to the amusement of The Corporation.

They leave the ring laughing and head up the ramp, then turn round still laughing as Show begins to come to, not knowing what the hell’s just happened. Vince and his sons raise each other’s hands in victory again, still incredibly smug as Gabriel sits up staring at them furiously. They don’t care one bit and turn round to walk to the back as Show sits up too looking totally confused.


*Video Promo*

A fairly low key John Cena is walking through the production area with a number of Raw superstars & employees watching him in the background.


*Video Recap*

Raw
Last Week

“My Time is Now”

A huge roar breaks out in the Idaho Center as John Cena makes his way out to the stage. Dressed as he usually is in his cut off jeans and T-shirt, the pumped up Cena hits both sides to pose for the fans. He smiles and salutes as normal before heading down the ramp to the ring. With the majority of the fans still cheering, he picks up a microphone placed on the apron and steps through the ropes to enter the ring. He walks across the ring and poses for the fans again, getting another big pop. He then backs up and his music cuts, bringing out the cheers & boos even more, and Cena soaks it up with a big smile.


John Cena: I’m sure you all by now, I’ve been made an offer, an offer t’ leave Monday nights an’ the bright lights of Raw t’ go back to where it all began f’ yours truly, Smackdown. . . I’ve had plenty of time t’ think it over an’ then some, and without doubt this has been the toughest decision of my whole career. Ever since comin’ t’ Raw, I’ve enjoyed ev’ry single moment. I’ve had some good ones an’ I‘ve sure as hell had some bad ones. . . I’ve been goin’ back an’ forth f’ nearly a month tryin’ t’ figure this out. I could easily stay on Raw, or I could go back t’ Smackdown an’ start a new chapter in my career. An’ after weeks of thinkin’ this through, I think I’ve finally come to a decision. I’m not sayin’ it’s the right one but I’ve made my decision nonetheless, an’ I’m gonna announce it t’ the world this Sunday at Unf’given.


*Cut to the Arena*


“My Time is Now”

An emotional John Cena walks out to the stage to a deafening reception, largely positive, and Cena stops at the top of the ramp. He’s in a sombre mood tonight as he takes some time to look out in to the crowd, and there’s no salute from him as he makes his way down the ramp and in to the ring, slapping the fans’ hands along the way. Now he’s in the ring, he heads straight to the opposite side and asks Lilian Garcia for a microphone. He gets one and strolls back in to the middle of the ring with his music cutting as he looks in to the stands, still looking emotional, not at all comfortable it seems.


John Cena: Y’know I’ve been through a whole lot o’ battles during my time here, an’ f’ the last month I’ve had another one, a diff’rent kind of batttle, a battle with myself and my thoughts. I’ve had t’ make one of the toughest decisions of my entire life. Now unless you’ve been in hiding for the last few weeks, you’ll know that I’ve had t’ choose between staying here on Raw where I’ve loved ev’ry second, and going back to the place where it all started for yours truly on Smackdown.

*Mixed*

John Cena: I could stand here all night and talk about all the great moments I’ve had on Raw, on Smackdown, headlining WrestleMania, winning the most prestigious titles this business has to offer, but you guys know all that. Whatever I say t’night, I know I’m not gonna please ev’ryone, even myself. I’m tellin ya I don’t know whether the decision I’ve made is the right one or not, and even if it is, I don’t know if I’m gonna be happier on Raw or on Smackdown.

He’s clearly finding this difficult and takes a few seconds to compose himself.

John Cena: Y’know it’s funny, I never thought I’d be thankful for Randy Orton putting me on the sidelines like he did last month, but it’s given me the time t’ think this through. Bein’ on the sidelines I’ve been able to think about this objectively. I’ve been watchin’ both shows an’ it’s pretty clear that even though some people think so, but not me, Raw really doesn’t need John Cena, and neither does Smackdown f’ that matter.

*Mixed*

John Cena: Whichever show you look at, they’ve both got incredible talent. There’s no lack of stars on either show. On Raw, we have Randy Orton. According t’ Randy, we’re soon gonna be in the Orton era. Who wouldn’t wanna be part of that right? Listening t Randy Orton go on an’ on about how I lost him the W-W-E Championship at WrestleMania. Well Randy, I got news for ya. You can’t blame me f’ you losing to Batista at Vengeance an’ SummerSlam. I get blamed f’ a whole lot o’ things, but you can’t put that on me. Besides you’ve got your chance t’night, an’ if you blow it which I’m sure y’will, you can’t put that on me either.

*Pop*

John Cena: Anyway, as much as he’d love it t’ be, this isn’t about Randy Orton. I’m sure he’s waitin’ f’ me t’ say that I’m leavin’ Raw all ‘cause of what he said last Monday about how much I’ll regret it if I stayed and how he’ll put me on the sidelines f’ good this time, but Randy this is my decision and mine only.

*Pop*

John Cena: Like I said before, I’ve been able t’ sit at home an’ watch both shows like all of you, and there sure has been some changes. We’ve got rookies flyin’ around here there an’ ev’rywhere, an’ boy are there some stars in the makin’. . . The point I’m tryin’ t’ make is that it seems like the company’s going in a whole new direction, like it’s a fresh start all round. We’ve got Eric Bischoff back on Raw, an’ love ‘im or hate ‘im, Eric knows what he’s doin’. . . Then on Smackdown, we’ve got Tazz layin’ down the law, the only way he’s been taught, an’ I love it. I love both shows, an’ choosin’ between ‘em is impossible. I might as well ‘ave tossed a coin t’ make this easier, ‘cause let me tell y’somethin’. Comin’ out here in front o’ all of you. . . I gotta say it straight up sucks bein’ in this position.

Cena takes another mini time-out to compose himself.

John Cena: If it wasn’t f’ Bischoff gettin’ jumped, I probably wouldn’t be standin’ here t’night. I’d ‘ave signed a new contract an’ that’d be that. Then Tazz goes an’ throws a spanner in the works by giving me an offer, an amazing offer may I add t’ go t’ Smackdown. You don’t know this but some of the things he’s offered me are the chance t’ lead a team at the Survivor Series against a team put t’gether by whoever’s the World Heavyweight Champion at the time, and then if my team wins, I’ll get a shot at the champion himself at Night of Champions come the end of the year.

*Cheers*

John Cena: The people who know me know that I don’t make my decisions based on rewards or anything like that. It’s what in here (taps his heart) that counts, but hell, what Tazz has offered me sure does get the adrenaline goin’ I can tell ya. . . Right now, I’m recovering from an injury, an’ to be honest I don’t know what the future holds for me on Raw. Sure I could come back an’ beat the hell out of Randy Orton for putting me on the shelf again, and from what I can see, Triple H is hell bent like Randy on getting his hands on the W-W-E Championship.

*Boos*

John Cena: F’ the last three years, it seems like all I’ve done the whole time is go t’ war with Randy an’ Hun’er for the W-W-E Championship. That ladies an’ gentleman is what made the decision for me. . . This whole job’s a war, but what I realised is that since there’s a whole lot o’ changes right now, it’s time John Cena made some changes. It’s time I take on a new challenge, and that new challenge for John Cena lies on Smackdown.

*Mixed (Largely Boos)*

John Cena: You have no idea how tough it is f’ me t’ say that in front of you all t’night. The people who’ve supported me since I came t’ the W-W-E, since I came t’ Raw, an’ even the fans that ‘ave booed me ‘til they’re blue in the face. The time’s right for me t start a new chapter in my career.

*Cheers & Boos*

John Cena: Right now, I just wanna say that I’ve loved my time on Raw more than you could ever believe. No doubt it’s been the best time of my career an’ I’m sure this isn’t the last time you’ll ever see John Cena on Raw.

“13”

Smackdown’s General Manager
, Tazz enters the arena to a pretty solid pop, but there are boos thrown in too. Cena turns and looks up at his new boss who’s clapping. There’s no major reaction from Cena as he just watches the clearly delighted Tazz walk down the ramp and in to the ring, collecting a microphone on his way off the apron. As he steps inside the ring, he walks towards his newest employee and shakes hands with him, getting a smile from Cena, but not a biggy. The music stops and frees Tazz to address his big acquisition.

Tazz: John, let me be the first t’ welcome you to Smackdown.

*Mixed (Loud)*

Tazz: I appreciate how tough this has been for y’John but I can’t tell y’how happy I am that you’re gonna be comin’ t’ Friday nights.

John Cena: I appreciate the offer boss.

“Back in Black”

Well here comes Raw’s Head of Authority to a big pop, and Eric Bischoff doesn’t appear to be bothered by Cena’s decision as he walks out to the stage with a strange smile on his face. He’s the only one who thought to bring a microphone with him as he heads down the ramp to join Cena & Tazz in the ring. He steps inside but stays close to the ropes, and his music stops with the Smackdown employees considerately waiting to hear what he has to say.


Eric Bischoff: Well f’give me for breaking up the party, it’s just that as far as I’m aware, John’s contract doesn’t actually expire until the end of the month. Looking at t’day’s date, it appears that we’ve still got over a week of September t’ run have we not?

John Cena: Whoa Eric, we all know the deal. When my Raw contract expires, then I’ll be going t’ Smackdown, not a moment sooner, just so we’re clear.

Tazz: He’s right. The offer I made ‘im is based on when his Raw one runs out.

Eric Bischoff: Well I’m glad t’ hear it because the last thing I wanted was to come out here and play the bad guy in all this. . . However what I have t’ say might shock you both.

There’s confused looks from both Tazz & Cena.

Eric Bischoff: John, like I told you a few weeks back, John Cena needs Raw a whole lot more than Raw needs you. Raw was a number one show before you came along and it will be when you’ve left. That’s why I’m freeing you from your contract effective immediately.

*Mixed (Loud)*

John Cena: What? You’re serious? You’re not playin’?

Eric Bischoff: No John, I’m not playin’. You wanna go t’ Smackdown? Fine.

Tazz: Hold on a sec’. You’re tellin’ me you’re happy t’ let John Cena, the biggest name in the business t’day leave Raw just like that?

Eric Bischoff: I believe that’s what I said. Now there’s something else I’d like to say, and Tazz you might wanna hear this. . . See as you so politely played by the rules in offering John the chance to leave Raw without breaking the open house rule, I have a slight confession t’ make. It appears that I may just have taken advantage of that little rule t’ even things up a bit.

Tazz: What you talkin’ about? You’ve offered one o’ my guys a contract?

Eric Bischoff: Oh I’ve done better than that. Not only have I offered him the chance to join the A show, he’s taken it. Who that is will remain between me an’ him for the time being, and Tazz, he’s not just any one of your guys, he’s one of your top guys. In fact he’s a bigger star than John here, and he’s coming to Raw very soon.

*Big Pop*

Tazz: Eric, y’know what? There ain’t a bigger name in sports entertainment t’day than John Cena, an’ whoever you’ve got jumpin’ ship, I don’t care ‘cause you’ve just lost the guy who’s gonna make Smackdown the new A show.

Eric Bischoff: Well I guess we’ll soon see about that won’t we?!

Bischoff walks over to Cena and holds out his hand, looking very sincere.

Eric Bischoff: John, good luck.

Cena seems a bit surprised but shakes his former employer’s hand, met by a smile and a nod from Bischoff. The Raw Head of Authority turns round and smirks at his Smackdown counterpart before leaving the ring and heading up the ramp. Tazz watches him the whole time, clearly stunned by his announcement. As Bischoff gets to the stage, he turns round and smiles back at Tazz, and then steps through the curtain. Tazz turns to look at the crowd and then back to Cena, bringing a smile back to his face and one to Cena’s.

Tazz: Now I know this may be a Raw show but I want y’all t’ give up for Smackdown’s newest superstar. . . nah wait. . .megastar, JOHN CENAAA!

“My Time is Now” plays to a big pop and Cena once again shakes hands with Tazz, who then raises Cena’s arm in the air. The former WWE Champion now takes a bow in the middle of the ring, drops the microphone and salutes the crowd before leaving the ring with Tazz following him. They both slap hands with the fans as they head back up the ramp, and the thankful Cena waves goodbye to the Raw fans from the top of the stage, then heads for the curtain.


*Cut Backstage*

An extremely happy Ted DiBiase Jr is getting up close to Maryse in the production area, and he’s got his Intercontinental title draped over his other shoulder. He’s still in his ring gear, and Maryse is clearly very happy too, and Ezekiel Jackson is even cracking a smile.


Maryse: You sure showed them baby. I’m so proud of you.

Maryse gets even closer to Ted by turning her head & kissing him ever so softly. Thankfully the camera’s on a mid-shot and we can’t see below Ted’s waist and an understandable bulge in his trunks!

Ezekiel Jackson: You did good.

Ted DiBiase Jr: Thanks. I said I’d beat Kofi and I did. No one can say I don’t deserve to be champion anymore after that.

All of a sudden, Ted seems distracted by something in front of him.

Ted DiBiase Jr: Well what do we have here?

Eric Bischoff walks towards them, and the Head of Authority doesn’t appear too happy to have bumped in to them.

Ted DiBiase Jr: I think you owe me an apology.

Maryse looks very smug, still clinging tight to her boyfriend.

Eric Bischoff: Is that so? Well I’m sorry. I’m sorry I’m not down on my knees kissing your ass because for once your life you didn’t need someone else t’ do your dirty work for you.

Ted DiBiase Jr: Hey. Just because you let John Cena slip between your fingers, don’t take it out on me. In fact, now Cena’s gone from Raw, you’ll need someone to take his place as the number one guy. And guess what Bischoff? You’re looking at him.

Eric Bischoff: Is that so? Well as it goes my level headed friend, I don’t care that Cena’s going to Smackdown. However since you’re so sure of yourself, I’m glad you feel you can step up. I’m always looking for someone t’ step up and make a name for themselves, and the show of course. And as far as you’re concerned champ, I’ve got big plans for you. See I’m never gonna f’get or f’give you for what you did, and there’s no doubt you’re gonna have t’ prove yourself each and ev’ry week. Don’t get me wrong, you did good t’night, but you’ll have to do the same t’morrow night. Just make sure you bring that title of yours with you ‘cause you’re gonna need it. For how long though, well that depends on you.

The Intercontinental Champion isn’t pleased to hear that and lets go of Maryse, stepping closer towards Bischoff.

Ted DiBiase Jr: What are you talking about?

Eric Bischoff: You’ll find out t’morrow night. Just make sure you enjoy this one. I’ll see you t’morrow champ.

Bischoff smirks & walks away, leaving DiBiase Jr something to worry about going in to Raw tomorrow night.


*Video Recap*

SummerSlam
Last Month


WWE Championship
Elimination Chamber Match
Batista (c) vs. John Cena vs. Rey Mysterio vs. Randy Orton
vs. The Big Show vs. John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield w/Vince & Shane McMahon

Orton’s stirring as Batista stands back up and pulls him in to place for the BATISTA BOMB!!!. . . . . Orton can’t block it this time as The Animal lifts him above his head to a big pop, but Orton jumps down and plants Orton with an RKO OUT OF NOWHERE!!!. . . . . Both champion & challenger are side by side on the mat as Orton slowly shimmies round and climbs on top of Batista, hooks the leg and makes a cover with the ref rushing down to his knees to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3? NO!

Batista just about manages to get his shoulder up to the relief of the joyous San Jose fans. Orton looks up in shock at the referee, and he looks like he’s going to lose it as the ref tells him it was two. The Viper snaps and stands up, bringing Batista up with him, but The Animal pushes him in to the ropes, and as Orton comes back, he falls victim to a SPINE BUSTER!!

Cheers ring round the arena as the intense champion makes his way back up and drags Orton with him, setting him up for the BATISTA BOMB AGAIN!!!. . . . . The WWE Champion doesn’t waste a second as he grabs Orton around the waist, lifts him up off the mat and high above his head, then sends him crashing down to the mat. Orton lies there lifeless, and Batista crawls across on his knees, hooks the leg and makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3? YES, 3!


***

Raw
18th August (24 Hours Later)

“Behold the King. The King of Kings. . .”

Triple H
walks out to the stage to a bombardment of boos. He’s dressed casually and looks very serious despite his victory last night. He stands at the top of the stage and turns to each side of the arena for a couple of seconds before walking down the ramp to the ring, picking a microphone up off the apron and steps inside. The music cuts as he stands in the centre of the ring, and the boos continue, not that it bothers The King of Kings.

Triple H: Last night, Batista retained the WWE Championship, something that would not have happened had I have been given the title shot I deserved in the first place. . . If there was any doubt about who should be the number one contender for the WWE Championship, there isn’t anymore. There’s only one person who deserves that spot, an’ you’re lookin’ at ‘im right now. . . There’s only one thing I want an’ I’m giving you the chance t’ come out here an’ accept my challenge for a title match right here t’night.

“IN THE END. . .”

The WWE Champion, Batista makes his way out to the stage in a foul mood despite retaining the title in the elimination chamber last night. He too is in his casual gear but he has the gold belt shining on his shoulder as he paces down the ramp with his eyes firmly on The King of Kings. He climbs in the ring and walks past him to collect a microphone, keeping his eyes on Triple H the whole time. He walks back in to the middle of the ring and stares at him for several seconds before lifting the microphone to his mouth.


Batista: You want a shot at the title t’night?. . . You got it.

“13”

Tazz
calmly strolls out to the stage to a decent pop with a microphone in hand, and he doesn’t look very happy with The Game after the pedigree he received last week during the contract signing. He takes some time and glares down at him, and The King of Kings looks back without an ounce of remorse.

Tazz: Hun’er, Hun’er, Hun’er, what a surprise. It didn’t take y’long did it, but guess what? I’ve got a newsflash for ya. . . You ain’t gettin’ a shot at the title t’night. . . See I don’t know if y’remember what y’did last week, but I do. In that ring right there, you pedigreed Ric Flair an’ then you pedigreed me. You pedigreed me, your boss, an’ that’s somethin’ y’just don’t do. . . So if y’wanna look at someone t’ blame, don’t look at me. Look at y’self. . . here t’night on Raw, there’s gonna be a battle royal t’ determine who will challenge Batista for the WWE Championship at Unf’given. . . An’ Hun’er, this is where your punishment comes in. . . You ain’t in it.

***

Later That Night

The Main Event
Battle Royal
Number One Contendership Match for the WWE Championship at Unforgiven

As Show was looking down at Matt on the floor, JBL stepped back and then tried to lift Show’s feet off the mat and over the ropes, not that it worked. Show swung his arm back and glared right at JBL, who pleaded for mercy before trying to joke about it. Show was furious and knocked him out with his huge right hand before dragging him up and tossing him out. Vince & Shane were seething on the outside, but as Show glared down at him, Cena managed to do what JBL couldn’t and lifted him off his feet and down to the floor. As the two Corporation members stood up on the outside, they went at it with Vince & Shane failing to separate them as they fought to the back.

In the ring, Cena & Orton went at it and it looked like Orton was out when he tried to clothesline Cena over the top but was lifted over the ropes. Orton landed on the apron and nailed Cena with a right hand before stepping back in the ring. He ran in to Cena who lifted him up for the F U, but Orton slipped down and back pedalled towards the ropes. Cena turned round in a hurry and ran at Orton, who grabbed him by the head and tossed him over the ropes and out of the battle royal. Cena landed awkwardly on his shoulder and seemed to be legitimately hurt, not that Orton was bothered as he celebrated earning himself a title shot against Batista at Unforgiven in just under five weeks.


***

Raw
25th August


Non-Title Match
Batista vs. Sheamus

With Sheamus on top, he looked to hit the deadly bicycle kick, but Batista ducked it and sent him back first in to the mat with another spine-buster. The crowd were going nuts as Batista then stood up and shook the ropes in a frenzy, getting ready for the Batista Bomb, but unbeknown to him, Randy Orton had slipped in the ring behind him. As the WWE Champion then turned round with the fans trying to warn him, he fell victim to an RKO that resulted in him being awarded the match via disqualification. The Viper stood up to a barrage of heat and stared down intensely at Batista, who was totally out of it. The Celtic Warrior picked himself up and didn’t look pleased as he saw Orton standing there. The number one contender for the WWE Championship turned his head and stared at the angry Sheamus as “Voices” played to even more heat from the Texas crowd.

***

Raw
1st September


Randy Orton w/Darren Young vs. Triple H
(If Triple H wins, he will face Batista & Randy Orton at Unforgiven for the WWE Championship)

Watching from the announce position, Batista wasn’t the only interested spectator for this contest, and the fans were leaning towards Orton as the match progressed. Young was also watching keenly from his mentor’s corner in what was a very competitive contest with both men desperate to win. . . Orton was hurting and struggled to get back up, and as he turned round in a daze, The King of Kings stomped him in the gut and pulled him in to place for the Pedigree.

Boos rang out and Triple H sensed victory, and then he made a mistake. He turned his head and took a look at the very serious looking WWE Champion at the announce table. Just as The Game turned the attention back to Orton, he immediately realised he was in trouble, and Orton countered with a back body drop. There were a lot of cheers in the crowd as well as some boos, and both men looked spent as they made their way back up. Orton looked to strike first and stalked Trips for an RKO, but as he jumped up in to the air, The Game pulled back and Orton hit the deck.

Again he got up as quickly as he could, but he wished he didn’t as he walked right in to a face-buster knee smash. Orton was in deep trouble, and Triple H once again looked for the pedigree. Before he could hook his opponent’s arms, Orton fought back and lifted him over his back again. Orton then took a few seconds, watching The Game roll around on the mat and try to sit up. The sadistic looking number one contender then back tracked to the corner, getting ready to take Trips’ head off with the Punt. Orton was foaming at the mouth before he then raced out of the corner and swung his boot at The King of Kings, but Trips pulled his head back as Orton ran through in to the ropes.

He managed to put the brakes on and held on to them, and as he turned round, he saw Triple H running right at him. The Viper reacted in a flash, ducking and pulling down the top rope to send his opponent over the top and down to the floor below, right in front of Batista at the announce table. The Game used the table to pull himself back up to his feet and was met with a stern look from The Animal. He gave one back as he got back to his feet with the referee making a count, not that Triple H was aware of it. The two rivals glared at each other, and Triple H took a look at the shiny WWE title belt.

Batista stood up and grabbed it, then made sure he knew it was his. They got in each other’s face, and it looked like they were going to go at it until the referee counted to ten and called for the bell. The Game turned round in shock with Orton smirking, as was Batista. The shock turned to anger as Trips stared a hole through the referee, who just looked down at him and explained he was counted out. Orton posed in the ring looking very satisfied to have got through it, and he was joined by Young, who congratulated him. That wound The King of Kings up even more, and he slowly turned round and stared right at Batista, seemingly blaming him for the loss.

Batista smiled through it, just getting Triple H even angrier, who slapped the headset off of him. It wasn’t a wise move as Batista then responded with a right hand, resulting in Triple H throwing one back and a fierce scuffle at ringside. The ref quickly tried to break it up but couldn’t and called for help from the back. Orton & Young left smirking as Batista & Trips went at it, and the help came flying down the ramp past Orton & Young. It was boiling over between Batista & The Game but the refs eventually managed to separate them and hold them apart but they continued staring at each other, desperate to tear each other apart as the show came to a close.


***

Raw
8th September (Two Weeks Ago)

“In the End”


Here comes The Animal. Batista runs out to the stage and then each side, sending the crowd in to raptures. With the WWE Championship strapped around his waist, he makes his way down the ramp and stops, then poses as a big pyro display goes off behind him. The WWE Champion is clearly pumped up and sets off down the ramp again but we see Triple H charging out behind him.

Batista doesn’t have a clue and is hammered across the back by The Game’s right forearm. It sends The Animal down on to his knees and the music stops. The King of Kings is pissed that’s for sure, and he puts the boots to the back of his bitter & defenceless rival.

Trips pulls him back up and fires him in to the guard rail back first. Batista falls forward and lands back on the ramp, the rolls the short distance down to the bottom. The Game follows him with DiBiase grinning to himself. Triple H helps Batista up again and this time fires him in to the ring post face first, and The Animal falls to the floor. DiBiase leaves the ring with a smile on his face and goes to grab his Intercontinental title as Triple H drags Batista up and tosses him in the ring under the bottom rope. The smug DiBiase heads back up the ramp as the intense Triple H climbs up on to the apron. . .

“I hear voices in my head. . .”

Randy Orton
and his rookie, Darren Young hit the stage looking very focused indeed, catching the shocked Triple H off guard. It brings another smile to DiBiase’s face as Orton & Young walk past him without giving him much attention at all as The King of Kings steps inside the ring with Batista squirming around on the mat. Orton & his rookie slowly enter the ring with their eyes firmly set on Triple H. He shifts in to the centre of the ring and prepares for war as Orton & Young shimmy round, circling him until The Game flips and fires at Orton and then Young as he looks to defend his mentor.

Young clubs Trips across the back as Orton falls to the mat. Orton’s determined rookie grabs The Game by the arm and tries for an irish whip, but it’s reversed and Triple H lifts Young off his feet as he comes back at him and sends him crashing in to the mat courtesy of a spinning spine-buster. It’s met by a mixed reception, and as the intense King of Kings makes his way back up staring down at Young rolling round in agony, Orton is getting up too. The Game turns round and walks right in to The Viper who leaps up and catches him with a thunderous RKO.

Orton crawls across to Triple H and stares right at his starry eyes, and in the corner of his eye, he sees Batista struggling up to his knees. The number one contender for the WWE Championship smiles sadistically and locks his eyes on The Animal. As Young too stands up, Orton makes his way across to the unsteady WWE Champion who has no idea of the danger he’s in despite the crowd desperately trying to warn him. Orton gets ready to strike and urges his Unforgiven opponent to turn round, and as he does, he plants him with an RKO, taking The Animal down to the mat.

With boos ringing out as he rushes back up, Orton smiles sadistically again, looking very satisfied with Batista laid out in front of him. Young admires his mentor’s work and now spots Triple H coming round. The rookie lets Randy know, tapping him on his shoulder and pointing right at The King of Kings. Orton switches gears and grins again with a plan clearly on his mind. He nods at Young and backs up in to the corner as The Game tries to get on to one knee.

The Viper charges out of the corner with a fierce determination written all over his face and punts The Game right in the head. That gets a decent pop and Orton takes several seconds to admire his work with Young doing the same as both Batista & Triple H lie motionless on the mat. Orton now asks Young to go and get him a microphone, and he does just that. The Legend Killer holds out his hand, not taking his eyes off Triple H for a second as Young hands him the microphone.
Randy Orton: Hun’er, if I’ve not made this clear enough already, this is my title shot, not yours or anyone else’s. At Unf’given I will once again become the W-W-E Champion, and if anyone gets in my way, I will put them including you Hun’er on the shelf permanently.

“Voices” plays again to a mostly negative reception from the Canadian fans, but there are some cheers in there as The Viper stares down remorselessly at the unconscious Triple H. Young looks down and smirks too, and as he & Orton turn to leave the ring, the still emotional Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley runs down to the ring and goes to check on her husband straight away. She panics and calls back for help, amusing both Orton & Young while Batista begins to sit up by the ropes. A couple of EMT’s race down to the ring and try to establish The Game’s condition as Orton & Young back track up the ramp, keeping their eyes on the damage they’ve caused.

***

Last Week

Todd Grisham
is at the interview set with Batista.

Todd Grisham: In just six days you’ll be defending the W-W-E title against someone you know very well in Randy Orton, and t’night in our main event you’ll be facing his rookie, Darren Young. However first I wanted t’ get your thoughts on what happened last week when you were attacked by Triple H before your scheduled match with Ted DiBiase Junior.

Batista: My thoughts? Yeah I can give you my thoughts Todd. Hun’er should consider himself lucky he’s in no shape t’ be here t’night after what he did. . . I just wish it’d been me not Randy that beat the hell out of ‘im. But one good thing’s come out of this Todd. Now Hun’er’s out of the way, I can focus on one thing an’ one thing only, Randy Orton. . . I know as well as anyone what Randy’ll do t’ get what he wants, only t’night I’m gonna send him a message by beating the crap out of his rookie, showing him he’s gonna be in for the fight of his life at Unf’given and that this title belongs to one person an’ person only. . . me.

***

Later That Night

Non-Title Match
Batista vs. Darren Young w/Randy Orton

The Animal lifted both his arms in to the air, signalling the thumbs up before then bringing them down to a huge pop. The fans were on their feet as Batista pulled his opponent between his legs with an angry Orton watching from the outside. The WWE Champion was met with no resistance by Young, who was then lifted up above Batista’s head and sent crashing down to the canvas courtesy of the devastating Batista Bomb. The fans were cheering as Batista shifted across the mat on his knees to hook Young’s legs for a cover and stared right at the frustrated Orton as the referee counted to three.

“In The End” played to a massive cheer and the referee went to collect Batista’s WWE Championship with Orton & Batista staring right at each other. The ref then handed the victor his title and raised his arm in victory, and The Animal turned round to pose with the title, naively turning his back on The Viper. Orton slipped in the ring immediately and snuck up behind him. The fans tried to warn him while Orton stalked his prey, and as Batista did turn round, The Viper jumped up and caught him with an RKO.

The Animal’s music stopped right away and Orton coldly remained on his knees and locked his eyes on the fallen champion. The WWE title lying beside Batista caught Orton’s eye and he shifted round to grab it before rising to his feet. Young began to sit up too and saw his mentor staring intently at the title he’ll be fighting for at Unforgiven. The Legend Killer then lifted the title up in to the air, standing over Batista with “Voices” hitting to a ton of heat from the Nampa crowd as the curtain comes down on this week’s Raw and the final stop on the way to Unforgiven this Sunday night.


*Cut to the Arena*



*The Main Event*



WWE Championship
Batista © vs. Randy Orton w/Darren Young

Last 10+ Minutes:
Orton picks himself back up with the WWE Champion following him, and the challenger unloads on him with a series of rapid forearm shots to the face. Batista’s knocked off balance, and the focused Orton turns back in to the ropes, runs back at Batista and The Animal fights back with a ferocious falling clothesline. Both men hit the deck with the crowd cheering, but they don’t stay down for long.

They get up as quickly as they can with The Legend Killer still feeling the effects of the clothesline. Batista takes control and grabs The Viper with two hands, lifting him up in to a double handed choke lift. There’s panic on the face of the challenger as he’s lifted up in to the air, and Young too is showing concern with Batista comfortably holding his mentor up in the air. The Animal then throws him forward and down to the mat, getting another cheer from the San Francisco faithful.

Orton’s feeling the pain as he writhes around on the mat, but he’s tough and tries to make it back up to his feet. Batista’s focused on the task in hand and gives him a helping hand, lifting him up off the mat and high above his head, showing his strength with a GORILLA PRESS!!. . . . . The crowd continue to cheer Batista as he walks towards the ropes with Orton looking worried, and The Animal drops him down on top of the shocked Young, both falling to the floor, getting an even bigger pop inside the Cow Palace.

Batista’s not getting complacent for a second, not smiling at all as he looks down at Orton & Young squirming on the floor. The WWE Champion steps through the ropes on to the apron and jumps down on to the floor, going right after Orton and not giving him the chance to make his own way up. Batista pulls him up from his knee and fires him back first in to the security wall, and Orton lets out a shriek of pain before falling down to the floor.

The Animal doesn’t stop there, pulling him right back up and whipping him in to the apron. Orton slides down the apron to the arena floor looking in sheer pain, but there’s still no emotion on the face of the determined champion. Batista has one thing in mind and drags him up again, shoving him on to the apron and pushing him under the bottom rope. The Animal grabs the rope and climbs up on to the apron himself, but Young grabs his foot, catching him off guard.

Batista turns round and stares furiously at Orton’s mentor while Orton sits up in the ring. The referee makes his way across and tells Young to let go, but he doesn’t and holds on tightly. Batista tries to pull it away and then kicks out at him, forcing Young back. With his foot free, he gives Young a dirty look and then steps through the ropes, but Orton’s back on his feet and stomps him in the gut, then clubs him across the back.

He forces the champion down to the mat, where he stomps all over him relentlessly. The intense Orton steps back but keeps his eyes locked on the squirming Batista, who uses the ropes to help him get back up. Orton goes right after him, grabbing his arm and trying for an irish whip. It’s a mistake and Batista reverses it, then runs out at Orton as he bounces off the ropes, and the champion nails him with a clothesline.

A cheer breaks out, but Orton’s not staying down for long. Batista’s not waiting around and turns back in to the ropes, charges back at Orton who stands up briefly, only to get sent down courtesy of a DIVING SHOULDER TACKLE!. . . . . The fans get even louder as the pumped up WWE Champion stands back up and urges his opponent to do the same. Orton rolls on to his side, and Batista gives him a helping hand by dragging him back up.

The Animal fires him hard in to the corner and Orton’s back is sent crashing in to the pads. Batista charges at him and drives his shoulder in to Orton’s midsection. Orton slouches forward, but Batista’s not done there. He thrusts his shoulder in to Orton’s stomach again, then backs out of the corner with Orton staggering out.

Batista scoops him up on to his shoulder and turns round, then runs across the ring and plants The Legend Killer with a RUNNING POWERSLAM!!. . . . . Batista’s one intense mother right now, maybe angry about what his daughter maybe doing while he’s away from home, but for now he focuses on Orton, staring down at him as he hooks his leg and makes a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Orton gets the shoulder up, and if Batista’s disappointed, he doesn’t show it as he stands right back up and urges Orton to do the same, watching him struggle back up to his knees. The Animal steps forward and pulls him up, then fires him hard in to the ropes. Orton hits them and grabs hold of them with complete desperation, frustrating Batista.

The champion charges at him, but Orton steps to the side as Batista hits the ropes, and The Viper slips behind him in a flash to roll him up for a cover, resting both his feet on the rope for leverage. The ref doesn’t notice and counts Batista’s shoulders. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Kick out from Batista. He powers out of that one, forcing Orton back. Both men make their way back up, and as Batista turns to face Orton, he walks right in to a PERFECT STANDING DROPKICK!. . . . . Orton scurries across the mat and hooks Batista’s legs with the ref rushing across to count the fall. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

Easy kick out from the WWE Champion. Orton sits up and goes right after Batista, sitting him up and applying a chinlock, putting a ton of pressure on The Animal. He does just that and Orton’s so intense right now, and Batista is struggling big time. Young watches on, very serious as the crowd start to encourage Batista, and it works. Orton’s looking worried as Batista fights back, fighting his way up on to one knee.

Orton’s seriously panicking now as Batista makes it up to his feet to a pop from the sell out crowd. The Animal shoves him forward in to the ropes and Orton comes back at him. Batista goes for a clothesline but Orton ducks it and catches him with an INVERTED SIDE BACK BREAKER!!. . . . . Batista falls to the mat and Orton dives right on top of him, hooking a leg for the cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

No! Batista gets his shoulder up. Orton’s not happy about it and stands up, walking round to Batista’s legs and lifts them up, applying the FIGURE FOUR LEG LOCK!!!. . . . . Orton falls back and applies the pressure to Batista, and he lets out a shriek of pain too, and you can see the anguish on his face. He sits up in agony, trying to fight his way out of the hold, but he can’t.

The challenger’s pulling away at his legs, putting Batista through torture, but again the crowd desperately will him on to escape the hold. He tries with everything he’s got to turn Orton over and reverse the hold, and he turns on to his side, starting to worry Orton. The Legend Killer’s panicking like mad, and Young is worried too on the outside. He tries to encourage his mentor to fight on, but he’s powerless as Batista turns him on to his stomach, resulting in a huge pop.

They go nuts as Orton screams out in pain with Young flipping out on the outside. Batista turns the tables on his opponent and puts him through torture, and Orton reaches out desperately for the ropes. He’s not close enough and Batista tries to keep it that way. Orton tries to drag himself towards them with absolute desperation, fighting for his life.

Batista does everything he can to stop him, keeping the hold locked in, but Orton gets closer & closer to within touching distance, and he gets there, grabbing the bottom rope and holding on to it for dear life. The fans boo as the referee tells Batista to let the hold go, and reluctantly he does. Orton leans on the ropes as the intense Batista stands back up and goes right after him.

He doesn’t give him a chance to get up, dragging him right back up and whipping him in to the ropes. Batista walks out and keeps his eyes on Orton as he comes back towards him, and the champion plants him with a SPINNING SIDE SLAM!!. . . . . Orton’s back is driven in to the mat and Batista wastes no time in making a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

No! Orton gets the shoulder up, and Batista takes it firmly on the chin. He’s focused as hell as he stands back up, and he brings his opponent up with him. He fires him in to the ropes again, and Orton comes running back in to a SPINE BUSTER!!!. . . . . The fans are going nuts as the fired up champion gets back up and walks over to the ropes. He grabs them and shakes them in a frenzy, Ultimate Warrior style, getting the crowd going even more.

Young panics and jumps up on the apron, and Batista sees him as he turns round. He’s pissed and goes right after him as Orton starts to stir. The Animal grabs Young by the shirt and stares right at him with the crowd willing him to punch Orton’s rookie. He doesn’t get the chance as Orton sneaks up behind him and clubs him across the back, and Young jumps down to the floor straight away.

Batista falls to his knees and Orton stomps all over him, pushing him under the apron with his boot. Orton spots an opportunity and reaches through the ropes to pull Batista up by his head, then drags him through the top & second rope in to place for the ROPE HUNG SPIKE DDT!!!. . . . .

The crowd look worried as Orton stares intensely in to the stands holding Batista in place, and he then drops down to the mat, driving Batista’s head in to the canvas. It looks Batista isn’t moving, and Orton sits there smirking, smiling sadistically at Young. The challenger turns round and grabs both of Batista’s legs, hooking them both for a cover. . . . .

1. . . . .

2. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . . 3?

. . . . .

NO! A big pop breaks out as Batista somehow manages to get his shoulder up, much to the shock & frustration of Orton. He sits up and holds his head in his hands. Young looks shocked too on the outside, and we can see Batista starting to stir, infuriating Orton. It’s like a black cloud has come over him. He stands up with purpose, keeping his eyes on Batista as he back pedals in to the opposite corner with evil intentions.

The fans think they know what’s coming and try to warn the squirming Batista. The WWE Champion has no idea how much trouble he could be in, and Young is watching on with a big smile on his face, looking very confident. Orton’s raring to go, holding on to the top rope at each side with both hands to stop him going for Batista already. The WWE Champion gets up on to all fours, giving Orton the green light to charge across the ring and he swings his boot at Batista’s head for the PUNT!!!. . . . .

Batista sees him coming and ducks his head. He stands up and runs in to the ropes as Orton puts the brakes on. The Legend Killer turns round as quickly as he can with Batista coming back off the ropes to take him down with a SPEAR!!!. . . . . BUT NO! ORTON STEPS TO THE SIDE AND BATISTA SPEARS THE REFEREE!!!. . . . . The Animal can’t believe it as he looks the ref in eyes, then realises there’s Orton to deal with.

He races back up to his feet, unaware of Orton behind him on his knees, pounding the mat getting ready to strike. As Batista turns round, Orton leaps up and RKO!!!. . . . . HE HIT IT BUT THE REF’S DOWN!. . . . . Orton jumps on Batista for the cover only to see the ref laid out at the side of him. Orton’s livid! He sits up in anger, clueless of what to do next. He looks over at Young, and he too has no idea. Orton looks back at Batista, and The Animal’s eyes are open.

Orton panics and stands up, then calls for Young to get him something, pointing towards the timekeeper’s table. Young gets it and turns round, walks over to Lilian Garcia and grabs the WWE Championship. He heads back to the ring and slides the title in the ring to Orton, and the crowd boo like mad as Orton bends down and grabs the title. Batista’s clawing his way up on to his knees, and Orton steps back with the title in hand, getting ready to take his head off.

The fans’ worry is obvious as Batista struggles up to his feet, totally oblivious as to what’s waiting for him. The focused Orton runs at him, but Batista ducks his head and lifts Orton up off the mat and plants him with another SPINE BUSTER!!!. . . . . The fans are cheering now as the intense WWE Champion kicks his belt out of the ring, causing great concern for Young on the outside. He watches on as Batista bends down and drags the helpless Orton in to place for the Batista Bomb.

The fans rise to their feet as Batista takes a quick look at Young, and it’s a mistake as Orton ducks down and low blows him to a ton of heat, and the ref’s still down and unable to disqualify him. Orton remains on his knees with a face like thunder, pounding his fists in to the mat again. He’s chomping at the bit, getting ready to explode when the crowd does just that, erupting with a barrage of heat. Orton’s too focused to see what his rookie can. . . . .

TRIPLE H IS PACING DOWN THE RAMP WITH A SLEDGEHAMMER!!!. . . . . Young tries to warn his mentor, shouting at him and pointing, but Orton doesn’t hear him or takes no notice if he can as The King of Kings slips in the ring. Young jumps up on the apron and gets Orton’s attention, pointing behind him to the menacing sight of Triple H with a sledgehammer. Orton turns round and can’t believe his eyes.

He stands up and RUNS RIGHT IN TO A SLEDGEHAMMER SHOT TO THE SKULL!!!. . . . . Young steps inside and charge at The Game, but he too is on the receiving end OF A SLEDGEHAMMER SHOT TO THE SKULL!!!. . . . . Triple H stares down at the both of them with the weary ref lifting his head up off the mat and calling for the bell, awarding the match to Orton via disqualification.


Winner: By disqualification, Randy Orton, but still the WWE Champion, Batista.

Aftermath: The crowd boo as The King of Kings turns his head to see Batista making his way up. Triple H turns round and sets his sights firmly on the unsuspecting WWE Champion. Batista stands back up as The Game sizes him up, then NAILS HIM WITH A SLEDGEHAMMER SHOT TO THE SKULL!!!. . . . .

The fans continue to boo the hell out of Triple H, but he’s not done. He surveys the wreckage with no remorse whatsoever as “King of Kings” plays. The Game lifts his head and looks around the arena at the fans that are booing him, giving them all one collective dirty look as Unforgiven comes to a close.


*Credits*


:ns >Don’t post any one line spoilers!<​


 
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