>Just a quick note. The matches came out a lot longer than I had anticipated, and as I tried to make sure they all went a bit longer than normal to measure things up, they got even longer.
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RAW Results – Monday 9th June 2008
Live From the Pensacola Civic Center
Pensacola, Florida
***Video Recap***
From Last Week
Batista apologising to the world for being absent the week before due to his daughter being ill with Triple H & Ric Flair being outnumbered in a fight in the parking lot against The Corporation.
JBL, The Big Show & Vladimir Kozlov confronting Batista with JBL telling him he said they would get retribution and thanks to him, they did and that Batista living with the guilt is good enough for them.
Eric Bischoff going to the stage and suspending The Corporation until after the King of the Ring.
The Quest to be Champion tournament final with Randy Orton jumping the barricade and costing Kennedy the match.
Jeff Hardy celebrating until Kane came down and attacked him despite a strong fight from Jeff.
***Opening Video***
“Wanna Be Loved”
***PYRO***
***PYRO***
***PYRO***
“Voices” hits to a ton of heat inside the arena as
Randy Orton walks down to the stage wearing jeans and a T-shirt with a smug look on his face. Once he gets in the ring, he collects a microphone and stands in the centre waiting for the chorus of boos to stop.
Randy Orton: I’m sure you’d all like an explanation to last week’s events, but in order for that to happen I need complete silence.
*Heat*
Randy Orton: See that’s the problem I have. You people have continued to show me no respect whatsoever, just like Mr. Kennedy. . . For some reason he
assumed that I’d forget about how he screwed me out of the WWE Championship at Backlash and go along with his quest to be the WWE Champion. He thought I’d drop to my knees and do everything he wanted so that when, or if he became the WWE Champion, he’d give me the first shot. It might have sounded like a good idea to him, but to me it was nothing but disrespectful. He assumed that he was going to win the title and that I was just going to stand by and watch, but there was
no way I was going to allow that happen. You see Ken, you might only get one shot in your career at becoming
the man, but you’re forgetting that I’m Randy Orton, a multi-time world champion and the single biggest star in this company today. I don’t go looking for the title, it comes looking for me.
*Boos*
Randy Orton: I’ll have opportunities in the not so distant future, you can count on that, but I was damned if I was going to stand by and watch you get one after you stopped me getting my hands back on the WWE title at Backlash. You had to learn your lesson, and quite frankly it was a lesson that you couldn’t have gotten from anybody else. I showed you that you do not even begin to contemplate screwing around with the best, and that’s what I am Kennedy, I am the best in this business today and you are absolutely worthless.
*Heat*
Randy Orton: These people might not like to admit it, but they know it’s the truth, just like you’re never going to be anywhere near my level. You didn’t deserve to even be in line for a shot, so I did what was right and took you out of it like I should have done a whole lot sooner. . .
“Turn Up The Treble” plays to a big pop with a very serious looking
Mr. Kennedy walking down the ramp in his ring gear and a T-shirt. He picks up a microphone as he climbs up the ring steps and enters the ring with Orton just smirking at him.
Mr. Kennedy: Randy, I don’t know what to say. Really I don’t. . . I guess I feel like an idiot for actually believin’ you, but t’ hell with that ‘cause there really is only one thing that I need t’ say right now. . . How ‘bout you put that microphone down and check down below t’ see if you’ve actually brought your balls with y’for a change. . . that’s if you had any t’ begin with, and even if y’don’t, y’better get ready t’ get your ass handed t’ y’by MISTER KENNEDYYYYYYY. . . KENN. . .
“I’m Back” blasts out with
Eric Bischoff walking to the stage with a microphone. Orton smirks again as Kennedy turns round in frustration.
Eric Bischoff: Look, I’m as angry as anyone about what happened last week but the fact is it happened and we have to deal with it. It’s just how we deal with it, or how more importantly, I deal with it.
*Mixed Reception*
Eric Bischoff: Now I’m sure everyone here would love t’ see you two go at it right now, but I’m sorry t’ say it’s not gonna happen, not tonight anyway.
*Heat*
Eric Bischoff: Now I assure you that I too and the rest of the world wants t’ see Mister Kennedy versus Randy Orton, and they will do at Vengeance in just under three weeks.
*Big Pop*
Both men look pleased at that decision, staring intently at each other.
Eric Bischoff: However, t’night you’re both going to be in action. . . See Randy, Kennedy isn’t the only man who wants t’ face you t’night, as earlier on I had a certain superstar come t’ me and ask t’ be given a match with you later on. . . So being the responsible general manager that I am, I agreed and gave him what he wanted, and trust me people, you too are gonna like this. Because later on in our main event, in that very ring, it’s gonna be Randy Orton going one on one with the number one contender for the WWE Championship, Jeff Hardy. . .
*Huge Pop*
Eric Bischoff: . . . But that’s not it. It’s not going to be any old match. . . Oh no. At Jeff’s request, it’s going to be a no holds barred match.
*Deafening Cheers*
Orton looks pissed and even Kennedy cracks a grin at that announcement.
Eric Bischoff: And don’t think I’ve forgotten about you Kennedy, I’ve got a special match for you too. . . You wanna prove Randy wrong, I’m gonna give you that chance t’night, because you’re gonna go head to head with the man you would have faced this Sunday at the King of the Ring had Randy not gotten involved last week. . . T’night, you’re gonna face the WWE Champion, Kane.
*Big Pop*
Eric Bischoff: In fact, that match will be next. . . So Randy I suggest you go t’ the back and we get on with the rest of the show, because believe it or not, Raw doesn’t revolve around you.
“I’m Back” plays again as Orton stares at Kennedy with his Vengeance opponent glaring back. The Legend Killer then leaves the ring and walks up the ramp, not taking his eyes off of Kennedy for a second.
***Video Promo***
{Commercial Break}
***Video Promo***
{Cut to Ringside}
***The Opening Match***
Non Title Match
Mr. Kennedy vs Kane w/Paul Bearer
ENDING: Kane pulls Kennedy back up to his feet, and the Green Bay born superstar is almost defenceless as The Big Red Machine hits an uppercut thrust, and then another, forcing Kennedy towards the ropes. The WWE Champion then whips him in to the opposite side, and as he comes back, Kane steps forward and drives his huge boot right in to Kennedy’s face, sending him right back down to the mat. Kane doesn’t show any compassion at all as he reaches down straight away and drags the practically dead weight Kennedy back up and whips him in to the ropes, planting him as he comes back with a SIDEWALK SLAM. . . . . Kennedy’s back is driven right in to the canvas, and this time Kane does make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kennedy just gets his shoulder up, but the pain he’s feeling is there for all to see as he barely rolls over with Kane slowly standing back up and looking down at his weary opponent the entire time. He lifts his right hand up in to the air, signalling for a CHOKESLAM. . . . . Kennedy slowly picks himself back up with Kane luring with intent behind him, and as he turns round, Kane grabs him around the throat and pauses for a couple of seconds.
But it gives Kennedy the chance to fight back, and he does so with everything he’s got, driving his elbow in to the side of the monster’s head to get him to release his grip. It works, and Kennedy then kicks him in the gut, grabs Kane by his head and plants him with a SNAP DDT. . . . . The fans cheer, but as Kennedy sits up, so does Kane, showing no signs of being hurt. Kennedy looks stunned, and he rushes to his feet as Kane stands up that little bit slower. The bleach blonde then tries for an irish whip to the corner, but it’s reversed by the WWE Champion with Kennedy being tossed right in to the turnbuckle pads. Kane then runs right in at him, lifting his boot up, but Kennedy steps to the side as Kane runs through with Kennedy stepping back in behind him and trying for an opportunistic roll up. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Kane powers out, but Kennedy is up quickly and hammers Kane as he gets back up with a series of hard right hands until Kane nails him with an uppercut thrust out of nowhere. It sends Kennedy down to the mat, but he rushes up and ducks a right hand to quickly grab Kane by the head and plant him with a SWINGING NECKBREAKER. . . . .
That does keep the champion down this time, and Kennedy tries to get a pin out of it, hooking both legs. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kane kicks out comfortably once again, but Kennedy senses his chance is now as he rushes back up to his feet and urges The Big Red Machine up too. As Kane gets up and turns round, Kennedy kicks him in the gut and sets him up for THE MIC CHECK. . . . . The crowd cheer but they’re disappointed as Kane then fights back and shoves Kennedy back in to the ropes, and as he comes back, Kane plants him with a TILT-A-WHIRL SLAM. . . . . Kennedy rolls around on his back as Kane just stands up coolly before reaching down and grabbing him with one hand around the neck. He pulls him up with the grip around the neck intact in order to lift him up in to the air and bring him crashing down with a CHOKESLAM. . . . . Kennedy is lying still across the mat, but Kane isn’t done as he brings his arm across his neck, signalling for the end as Paul Bearer watches on happily from the outside. Kane then bends down and drags his opponent up once again, scooping him up on to his shoulder before drilling him down to the mat head first with a TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER. . . . . Kane leans forward and crosses Kennedy’s arms to go for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNER: Kane by pinfall @ 9.37.
AFTERMATH: “Burned” blasts out again as Paul Bearer enters the ring with the WWE Championship. Kane stands back up and raises both arms in the air before setting his pyro off to scare the hell out of everyone inside the arena. Bearer then rests the title on his shoulder and looks down at Kennedy, laughing as he then directs Kane out of the ring.
{Cut Backstage}
Eric Bischoff is watching on from his office, sat down on his leather sofa when a sombre
William Regal walks through the door. Bischoff doesn’t appear to be too happy to see him as he stands up and puts his hands in his pockets.
Eric Bischoff: Well.
William Regal: Mister Bischoff. . . I am very sorry. I should never have undermined you last week and made that match without consulting you. I know you’re the general manager but you have to know I was only doing what I thought was right and what you would do.
Eric Bischoff: All I asked for was some courtesy Regal, just to run things by me without rushing in to decisions. Is that really so much to ask?
William Regal: No of course not, but from now on I promise to consult you on everything I decide to do around here.
Eric Bischoff: Maybe that’s a bit extreme, it’s just when you announce title matches for pay-per-views you know, they’re a big deal and I need to decide if they’re the right way t’ go. You understand?
William Regal: I do yes.
Eric Bischoff: Okay, then I accept your apology. . . Now I’ve got some business t’ attend to. I guess I can trust you t’ hold the fort for a while?
William Regal: Certainly.
Eric Bischoff: Okay, I’ll see you later.
William Regal: Goodbye Mister Bischoff.
Bischoff looks quite relaxed as he walks out of the room with Regal smirking quite heavily. He picks his cell phone out of his pocket and makes a call.
William Regal: Good evening Mr. Layfield. . . Yes it went just as we discussed. I did everything he asked of me. He trusts me perfectly. . . Yes that’s correct, I shall see you next week. . . Goodbye.
Regal places his phone back in his jacket pocket and then sits down on the sofa with a big smile on his face.
***Video Promo***
{Commercial Break}
***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 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 to Ringside}
***Match #2***
Non Title Match
Special Guest Referee - Melina
Victoria vs Natalya Neidhart
ENDING: Victoria pulls Natalya up from her knees, but the feisty Canadian takes her by surprise as she throws a right hand in to the gut of the Women’s Champion. Victoria leans forward as a result with Natalya rising to her feet and capitalising instantly with a snap suplex. She readjusts her position on the mat to hook Victoria’s leg and make a cover, staring at her rival Melina as she makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Victoria gets her shoulder up and rolls over on to her side straight after as Melina & Natalya exchange venomous glances. Neidhart then makes her way back up at a steady pace as Victoria tries to roll on to her knees, and Natalya switches her attention back to the champion, clubbing her across the back and pulling her back up to a vertical base. She then strikes her with a European uppercut and whips her in to the ropes, but Victoria charges back and takes her down with a clothesline. Natalya looks to get back up, and as she does, Victoria scoop slams her back down to the canvas. The Women’s Champion then shakes in a frenzy as she stands over her opponent before connecting with a STANDING MOONSAULT. . . . . That gets a cheer from the crowd, and she reaches to the side to hook Natalya’s right leg for a cover with Melina seeming to be counting slightly quicker. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .
Neidhart still gets her shoulder up as Victoria leans back up. She then picks herself back up as Natalya tries to make her own way up. As Natalya turns round to face her, Victoria tries to scoop her up, but Natalya manages to slip down and behind her. She sharply grabs Victoria around the waist and executes a BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . Melina rushes to her knees and counts Victoria’s shoulders as Natalya desperately holds on. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kick out! Victoria escapes that one, but Natalya gets right back on with the match while staring intensely at Melina. She sits Victoria up and applies a rear chokehold, but the fans respond straight away and try to encourage the champion. Victoria responds herself and manages to get back up to her feet with Natalya starting to panic, and as Victoria gets there, she escapes her opponent’s clutches by driving her elbow in to Natalya’s stomach. With Natalya leaning forward holding her stomach, Victoria turns to the side and runs the ropes, but as she comes back, Natalya reacts and plants her with a vicious looking BACK BREAKER. . . . . That must have hurt, and she looks to take advantage right away as she hooks both of Victoria’s legs for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Victoria just gets her shoulder up, showing she’s not going anywhere to the surprise of Neidhart. She looks right at Melina who just shrugs her off, angering Natalya further. She stands back up in a strop and lifts up both of Victoria’s legs to apply THE SHARPSHOOTER. . . . .
Victoria tries to fight it, but Natalya locks in the hold, immediately putting pressure on the lower back of the Women’s Champion, and it shows. Victoria desperately reaches out, but she’s nowhere near the ropes as the crowd get behind her, clapping as she tries to fight the deadly submission hold. With Melina right beside her, Victoria fights with everything she has, gradually dragging herself closer to the ropes. And the closer she gets, Neidhart starts to panic and unwittingly lessens the pressure, allowing Victoria to reach out and grab hold of the bottom rope to the delight of the crowd. Natalya is clearly angry and keeps the hold locked in, but Melina isn’t having any of it. She tells her to let it go and starts the count, and Natalya lets it go at four, but reluctantly. She stands back up and gets right in Melina’s face, forcing her back in to the centre of the ring as a strong exchange of words begins with Melina telling Natalya straight. Neidhart looks like she’s about to slap Melina, but Melina blocks it and holds Natalya’s arm up for several seconds before letting it go. Natalya then seems to see sense and turns back round reluctantly as Victoria sits up by the ropes. Natalya then walks over and tries to pull her up, but Victoria tamely kicks her back in to Melina, knocking Melina off balance for a second. As the ref steadies herself, she looks right at Natalya and slaps her. Neidhart is about to respond until Victoria creeps up behind her and rolls her up with Melina dropping to her knees, making a very quick count. 1 . 2. 3.
WINNER: Victoria by pinfall @ 6.49.
AFTERMATH: “Ain’t The Lady To Mess With” as both Melina & Victoria stand up with Melina taking her by surprise and raising her hand in the air very quickly, letting it go almost instantly before turning round and leaving the ring as both Victoria & Natalya look on. Natalya sits up and stares at Melina walking up the ramp in anger while Victoria looks bemused.
{Cut Backstage}
Todd Grisham is standing by.
Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentleman, please welcome my guest at this time. . . Jeff Hardy.
A big pop comes from inside the arena as
Jeff walks in to the shot looking very calm.
Todd Grisham: Jeff first off, congratulations on last week and we’ll get to the King of the Ring in a moment, but I have t’ ask you just why you asked Eric Bischoff for a match with Randy Orton t’night.
Jeff Hardy: It’s real simple Todd. When I saw what he did last week, I wasn’t happy. I didn’t wanna win the match that way, an’ it felt like I di’n’t earn it y’know? . . Hopefully, if I beat Randy Orton t’night, I’ll prove I do deserve the shot I got Sunday at the King of the Ring, and that I can be the WWE Champion.
Todd Grisham: Well t'night you’ve got a tough match with Randy Orton, but Sunday you’ll be facing Kane. How do you feel about having t’ take on The Big Red Machine?
Jeff Hardy: Todd, I know how tough that’s gonna be. We all know what Kane’s capable of, but I don’t think Kane knows what I’m capable of. . . Whatever happens Sunday, I’m gonna give it my best shot and do whatever it takes to make my life’s dream come true, t’ become the WWE Champion.
We can hear cheers coming from the arena again.
Todd Grisham: Good luck Jeff.
Hardy turns round and walks out of the shot, bumping in to an agitated
Brian Kendrick. They look at each other for a second before Jeff carries on walking.
Todd Grisham: Brian, can I get a few words about your match with Paul London t’night?
Kendrick smirks and walks over to him.
Brian Kendrick: I’ll give you some words alright. I ain’t got a clue what’s goin’ through that so called brain o’his t’ actually go an’ ask for a match with
me. . . But I’ll tell you somethin’ Todd, he’s sure as hell gonna regret it, that’s for sure.
Kendrick looks very focused as he stares at Grisham to let the message sink in for a few seconds before walking out of the shot with Grisham slightly surprised by Kendrick’s intensity.
{Commercial Break}
***Video Promo***
A shot of a driveway and a white Lamborghini pulling up in to at speed is shown, but there’s no indication of the time and date as the sun is shining down on a very big and attractive house. It’s the same car that we saw last week on Raw, and once again we see
Batista step out of it, and a
young girl around the age of sixteen wearing a shoulder bag climbs out at the passenger side.
Batista: You go get your homework done and I’ll. . .
Batista looks stunned as he turns to the side and stares at another car in the driveway, a black Mercedes.
Girl: You okay dad?
Batista: Yeah, it just looks like we have company.
Daughter: Really? Who?
The front door opens as Batista and his daughter walk towards it with what appears to be their
maid, an old looking lady standing by it.
Maid: Dave, you have a visitor.
Batista: Where is he?
Maid: He’s in the living room.
Batista: Okay thanks.
Batista walks inside with his daughter, and the maid shuts the door behind them.
Batista: Why don’t you go get a drink and then go get your homework out of the way?
Just as she’s about to walk off, we hear a strong voice.
?: Hey, how you doin’?
She turns round, and Batista turns his head to the side as
Triple H emerges in to the hallway with a glass of water in his hand.
Triple H: So how you feelin’? I heard you weren’t so well last week.
Batista clearly isn’t happy with Triple H being there.
Daughter: Yeah but I’m fine now, thanks t’ dad looking after me. He was great.
Triple H looks a little surprised for a moment.
Triple H: He’s always there when you need him isn’t he? That’s why we get along so well, right Dave?
Batista stares right at Triple H, and he’s not happy at all.
Batista: Go get that drink sweetheart, me and Hun’er need t’ talk.
Daughter: It’s nice to see you again.
Triple H: Yeah, you too. Glad you’re feelin’ better.
Daughter: Thanks.
Maid: Let’s go get you a drink shall we dear.
Batista’s daughter walks off with the maid, but she turns round and smiles at Triple H who smiles back. Batista still isn’t happy and he walks up to him.
Batista: What the hell are you doin’ here?
Triple H: Nice welcome Dave. You treat all your guests like this?
Batista: Funny, I don’t recall askin’ y’here.
Triple H: Technically you’re right. . .
Batista: . . . There’s no technically about it.
Batista sees the maid and his daughter in the corner eye as they spy on them from the kitchen.
Batista: Follow me.
Batista walks past The Game with the slow moving Triple H (because of the assault) then following him through to the lounge where they sit down on opposite sofas, both leaning forward with Batista looking the more serious of the two.
Batista: So, you gonna tell me what you’re doin’ here?
Triple H: Dave, it’s a good thing I don’t rely on you for your brain, ‘cause you’re not exactly the sharpest knife in the drawer are ya?. . . Well anyway, I don’t know if you know that last week I was attacked by The Big Show and ended up in hospital, as was Naitch. . .
Batista: . . . I was with you both in the hospital. We’ve talked about this.
Triple H: No, you’ve talked about this. . . I caught Raw last night Dave, I saw your little speech. . .
Batista: Wait a minute. That’s why you’re here? T’ check up on me?
Triple H: Check up? . . . No!
Batista: Well I guess you’re disappointed my story checks out huh, but I sure as hell don’t appreciate you comin’ here and interrogatin’ my daughter. You got that?
Triple H: Loud and clear.
The Animal stands up.
Batista: Well I guess you’re business here’s done. Thanks for stoppin’ by.
Hunter tries to reason with him and stands up.
Triple H: Come on Dave.
Batista: Don’t come on Dave me, Hunter. You come t’ my house unannounced, you doubt my word and you grill my daughter. What do you expect? . . . My daughter comes first, you’ve always known that. I’m sorry I wasn’t there for Ric. . . well for both of ya, but I can’t change what happened. I apologised last night, and I honestly don’t know what you expect from me, but I will not have you pushin’ your way in t’ my house alright? . . . Now get out before I throw you out and send you back t’ the emergency room.
Triple H: Alright, I’m sorry, maybe I went a bit too far. . .
Batista: . . . There’s no maybe about it. I suggest you leave now before I do somethin’ I regret.
Triple H sees there’s no point hanging around.
Triple H: Alright I’ll go. But believe me Dave, I am sorry.
Batista looks away from him, and The Game shakes his head in disappointment.
Triple H: I’ll see you soon Dave.
Batista just ignores him as Triple H walks out of the room with the camera zooming on Batista’s very angry face.
{Cut to Ringside}
“Ain’t No Make Believe” hits to heat as
John Morrison & The Miz, the World Tag Team Champions confidently walk down to the ring and collect a couple of microphones up off the steel steps before stepping inside.
John Morrison: As you well know, certain people around here have been trying to get around the rules of tag team wrestling in order to give themselves a better opportunity at taking these belts out of our hands. . . Now we’ve made our feelings perfectly clear to the powers that be, and we would like to take this time to inform you that if anyone wishes to compete for our tag team titles, they will be a team made up of two, not three men.
The Miz: That’s right. So to any of you who thought you were gonna steal the tag team titles away from us. . . well, think again, ‘cause these bad boys aren’t goin’ anywhere anytime soon. . . And t’ illustrate out point, I thought I’d come out here and open up a challenge to anyone in the back t’ show you just why these titles will stay on our shoulders for a long, long time to come. . . So, who’s it gonna be? . . . Don’t be shy.
“Bringin’ Da Hood To You” plays with the fans cheering as
Shad Gaspard & JTG, collectively known as
Cryme Time stroll out to the stage with their own microphones.
JTG: YO, YO, YO. . .
Shad: . . . Nice speech fellas, but y’need t’ know a little some’in’ some’in’. . . the two of us could beat the both of yous anytime you want, but before you get your hissy fit on, t’night ain’t about us. . . See, we were on our way out here when we saw someone we ain’t seen for a long time. . .
JTG: . . . LONG TIME.
Shad: Yeah Jay, a long time, and he’s the one who’s gonna take y’up on your challenge Lil’ Miss Mizzy. We can wait, but Pensacola, y’all better get ready. . . Hey Jay, you know what? . . . I think we better go get ourselves some special seats for this one. What y’think?
JTG: Oh yeah, I’m feelin’ that.
They both start to walk down the ramp.
Shad: A’ight, so I’ll tell y’what. We’re gonna walk on down here an’ help out JR an’ The King for a bit. You just. . . What did he say before Jay?
JTG: I dunno, some’in’ ‘bout his boyfriend’s hair.
Shad: No that ain’t it, but y’know what, we’ll just keep these guys company for a while. You just do what y’gotta do. Forget about us an’ do what y’ave to a’ight.
Morrison & Miz aren’t happy at all as they see Cryme Time join JR & The King.
JR: Thanks for keeping us company guys.
JTG: Yo, don’t mention it JR.
The King: You sit yourselves down guys. . . Hey, who’s this mystery opponent you know about?
Shad: What, y’not like surprises King? You just wait an’ see ‘cause it’s gonna be good.
There’s a short delay as Morrison & Miz turn their attention to the stage awaiting The Miz’s opponent. And eventually, the lights go out and
“Gold Lust” hits to a big pop with
Goldust walking out to the stage with yellow spotlights flashing around the arena. The camera zooms in on the stunned expressions of Morrison & The Miz as Goldust makes his way down to the ring.
JTG: Did we tell you? . . . Oh, we told you.
JR: I’m in shock. I can’t believe what I’m seeing. Goldust is back on Raw.
The King: This is crazy JR. . . In fact, Goldust’s crazy JR. . . This is unbelievable.
***Match #3***
Goldust vs The Miz w/John Morrison
ENDING: Miz stands up in shock and is on the receiving end of a big right hand, sending him back pedalling in to the ropes. Goldust then grabs him by the arm and whips him in to the opposite side, and as The Miz comes back, Goldust runs in to the centre of the ring to meet and take him down with a falling clothesline. That gets a pop from the crowd, and as The Miz gets back up with Goldust already on his feet, he doesn’t see his opponent run behind him and send him back down to the mat head first with a RUNNING ONE-HANDED BULLDOG. . . . . The crowd cheer once again as Goldust turns The Miz over and hooks his leg for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . The Miz gets his shoulder up, and Morrison looks relieved on the outside. Goldust stands back up and helps The Miz up too, then lifts him off his feet in to an inverted atomic drop. The Miz hobbles around on the mat, and Goldust then turns back to run the ropes, but as he gets there, Morrison reaches inside and grabs Goldust’s boot. The fans don’t like that, and neither does the referee as he walks over and warns him. Morrison shrugs it off and turns round, laughing at Shad & JTG as they watch on from just in front of him at the announce table. JTG seems to warn him too, and back on the inside, Goldust turns his attention back to his opponent and runs back at The Miz, but The Chick Magnet takes him down with a drop toe hold.
He then stands back up and runs in to the corner, climbing up to the top rope as Goldust gets back up and turns round in to a MISSILE DROPKICK. . . . . Both men fall to the mat, but The Miz scurries right back across as he looks to make a cover, and he hooks both legs as the ref makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Goldust comfortably gets his shoulder up, but The Miz looks to keep the momentum going, rushing to his feet to stomp all over Goldust’s chest with Morrison enjoying it on the outside. We then see Carlito, his brother Eddie Colon and Eric Perez walk out to the stage, catching the attention of not just Morrison & The Miz, but Cryme Time too. The Miz then reaches down and pulls Goldust back up, holding on to his head as he then sets him up and connects with a FALLING NECKBREAKER. . . . . The Miz looks up at The Colons for a couple of seconds before turning round to make another cover on Goldust. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . The charismatic Goldust gets his shoulder up to leave The Miz frustrated, and it really shows as he stands back up and doesn’t concentrate fully as he reaches down to pick Goldust up. He chops him across the chest and then whips him in to the ropes, but as Goldust comes back, he counters a back body drop but dropping to his knees and hitting Miz flush with an uppercut, getting a pop from the crowd.
Goldust then looks to take advantage and quickly plants The Miz with a SWINGING NECKBREAKER. . . . . The Miz could be in trouble as Goldust turns over and makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Morrison jumps up on the apron and distracts the referee, stopping the count in the process and getting the fans on his back. The ref walks over and tells Morrison to get down, but he stays there as Goldust sits up and looks over. JTG then gets up from the announce table and pulls Morrison down. The Shaman of Sexy doesn’t look too impressed and makes it known with the ref trying to make sure nothing happens between them either as Goldust looks to get The Miz back up, but The Miz uses the distraction to his advantage and knocks him down with a discus punch. He then sees the fuss on the outside and walks over to the ropes, shouting at JTG, and that sees Shad rise up from the announce table to walk over and get involved as all four men argue. Goldust slowly picks himself back up in the centre of the ring, and the ref tries to get The Miz focused on the match, but he carries on arguing with Shad then shoving Morrison down to the floor. Miz looks to leave the ring, but the ref blocks him off. He then turns round in anger and walks in to a stomp to the midsection from Goldust, who then pulls him away from the ropes to plant him with THE CURTAIN CALL. . . . . The crowd cheer as Goldust makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNER: Goldust by pinfall @ 4.52.
AFTERMATH: “Shattered Dreams” hits to a big pop as Morrison sits up on the outside with Cryme Time laughing at him while Goldust gets his arm raised in the ring. The Colons & Perez look down and they seem to be laughing at The Miz’s defeat.
***Video Promo***
{Commercial Break}
***Video Promo***
{Cut Backstage}
Melina is walking out of her locker room with her travel bag in toe as
Victoria walks towards her as Melina walks out of the door and in to the hallway.
Victoria: HEY, what was all that about earlier? . . . I don’t need your help to beat Natalya, or anybody for that matter.
Melina stops and turns to face Victoria.
Melina: I didn’t help you. . . not on purpose anyway. Natalya and I have problems, and you saw her get in my face. . . What was I supposed t’ do? Let her slap me. . . I’ll tell you what though Victoria, even though me and Natalya have our problems, we do both share one problem. . . we both want the Women’s Championship, and we’re both gonna be trying to beat you at Vengeance to take it from you. And if I were you, I’d worry more about that and not what happened out there tonight.
Victoria doesn’t seem to be that thrilled with Melina’s comments as the special guest referee from earlier on steps forward dragging her bag, but she stops straight away and turns back to face Victoria.
Melina: Oh I almost forgot. . . I spoke to Eric Bischoff earlier and he said that next week, you’ll be having another match, just not with Natalya, but with me. . . You take care and I’ll see you next week.
Melina walks on up the hallway with Victoria watching her closely.
{Cut to Ringside}
***Match #4***
Paul London vs Brian Kendrick
ENDING: London is whipped in to the ropes by his former partner, but as he runs back, he slides through Kendrick’s legs and rushes up to his feet with Kendrick turning round in to a DROPSAULT. . . . . Cheers break out in the crowd, and both men pick themselves back up with London getting to his feet first and lifting Kendrick up off his for an inverted atomic drop. With Kendrick looking uncomfortable on his feet as he lands on them, London follows up immediately to connect with a FRANKENSTEINER. . . . . London holds on to Kendrick’s feet as the ref rushes to his knees to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kendrick kicks out and tries to get on to his knees while London gets back up straight away, pulling him up and whipping him in to the corner. He takes a second before running in at him, but Kendrick lifts his boot up in to London’s face, sending him staggering out of the corner holding his face. He then turns back round as Kendrick takes a breather, but he sees London coming back at him, and he kicks him in the gut, then grabs him by the head to use the ropes by his side to plant London with a CYCLONE DDT (Springboard Tornado DDT). . . . . London’s head was driven right in to the canvas, and Kendrick thinks it’s done, signalling the end as he complacently crawls across and makes a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! London gets his shoulder up to the delight of the fans, but Kendrick doesn’t look happy as he sits up in frustration, staring at the referee for a couple of seconds in disbelief that London kicked out. He takes his time in standing back up and then walks in to the corner and climbs up to the top rope while London slowly sits up and rolls on to his knee.
As he manages to get to a vertical base and turn round, Kendrick dives off the top and lands on top of his former tag team partner for a CROSS BODY. . . . . . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . London lifts him off and sits up while Kendrick pulls himself back on to his knees and stares at his groggy looking opponent. Kendrick seems to be getting angry now as he stands up and drags London up with him, whipping him in to the ropes and connecting with a leg lariat as London bounces back off the ropes. Kendrick then stands up and stomps on London’s chest, then reaches down and pulls him back up again, but as he tries for an irish whip again, London takes him by surprise and reverses it this time. The stunned Kendrick comes back off the ropes and is met with a drop toe hold. London stands back up with a short delay as Kendrick tries to sit up, but London turns back in to the ropes, runs back and hits him with a SIT DOWN DROPKICK TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD. . . . . The crowd liked that, and Kendrick could be toast as London then turns him over and looks to make a cover, hooking both legs as the ref makes a count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kendrick lifts his shoulder up to the slight surprise of London, but he shrugs the disappointment off and returns to his feet with Kendrick struggling to his knees, but London stays patient and waits for his opponent. Unaware of his ex partner urging him up behind him, the unsteady Kendrick stands up and turns round to see London jump in to the air and smash him right in the face with an ENZIGURI. . . . .
The crowd cheer very loudly as Kendrick falls in a heap, off centre of the ring as London scurries over and turns him on to his back and goes for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Kendrick lifts his left foot up on to the bottom rope to the disappointment of both London and the fans inside the Pensacola Civic Center. There a few boos ringing out, but London sees that Kendrick isn’t moving, and he stands up then drags Kendrick in to the corner before climbing all the way up to the summit with the fans cheering him on. He takes a look down before jumping in to the air for a SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . But Kendrick gets his knees up, driving them in to London’s stomach as both men then remain down on the mat for a while. Both men then struggle to their feet with London crawling away from the corner while Kendrick uses the ropes to help him up. London turns round and sees Kendrick charge at him, then lifts his boot up for a SUPER KICK. . . . . Kendrick ducks it and runs through. Both men turn round with Kendrick kicking London in the gut and grabbing his head, setting him up for the SLICED BREAD. . . . . The fans boo as Kendrick runs in to the corner, but London pulls himself free and shoves Kendrick in to the pads. Kendrick manages to put the brakes on before hitting the pads and turns round with London then running in at him and hitting a STINGER SPLASH. . . . . London then unloads with a series of right hands and stomps to the gut. He seems to be getting carried away and uses a closed fist aggressively, worrying the referee who warns him, but London just shoves him away and down to the mat with Kendrick slumping down the pads as the ref calls for the bell, disqualifying London.
WINNER: Brian Kendrick by DQ @ 5.26.
AFTERMATH: Kendrick remains sat up against the pads as London slides on out to grab a steel chair. He then slides back inside with it and walks across to Kendrick, then swings it right at him, but Kendrick manages to dodge it and slip out of the ring with the chair hitting the mat. Kendrick runs halfway up the ramp as London stares at him with the chair in hand and pointing with the other, surprising the hell out of his former tag team partner.
***Video Promo***
{Commercial Break}
***Video Promo***
{Cut Backstage}
Brian Kendrick is one angry man as he storms down the hall and in to the General Manager’s Office, but only
William Regal is there, and Raw’s Executive Assistant stands up.
William Regal: And what can I do for you young man?
Brian Kendrick: Did y’not see what happened out there or somethin’? He tried to kill me.
William Regal: Well that’s a bit melodramatic don’t you think?
Brian Kendrick: What? Quit the big words an' tell me what you’re gonna do ‘bout it, ‘cause if he tries that again, it’ll be me who. . .
William Regal: . . . Okay, okay, I get it. . . Look I’ll tell you what I’m going to do. We’ve all seen the differences you two have had lately, so I think the best solution is that you both compete against each other in a match at Vengeance.
Brian Kendrick: Fine by me. . .
?: Excuse me.
Regal & Kendrick turn round to see
Eric Bischoff standing by the door.
Eric Bischoff: Did I just hear that right?
Brian Kendrick: What?
Eric Bischoff: Not you. . . Your match for Vengeance is still on but could you leave me with my assistant for a moment?
Brian Kendrick: Sure, no worries. . . He’s in trouble.
Eric Bischoff: Leave.
Brian Kendrick: Alright I’m goin’.
Kendrick walks out of the room laughing with Bischoff staring a hole right through the worried looking Regal.
Eric Bischoff: What the hell do you think you’re doin’? Did I or did I not tell you not to go round making matches without my permission?
William Regal: You might have said something about title matches. . .
Eric Bischoff: . . . Don’t get smart with me Regal, you know full well what I said.
William Regal: Alright, but I’m only doing what you should do if you didn’t swan off half the time to leave me to do your bloody job for you. I’m sorry if you weren’t here but I made the right decision. I DIDN’T TAKE THIS JOB TO BE YOUR YES MAN. EITHER WE CAN WORK TOGETHER LIKE YOU SUGGESTED WHEN YOU ASKED ME IN THE FIRST PLACE, OR. . .
Eric Bischoff: . . . YOU LISTEN TO ME FOR A MINUTE ALRIGHT, BECAUSE YOU ARE THIS CLOSE T’ LOSING YOUR JOB ALTOGETHER. . . IF YOU WANNA KEEP THIS JOB, YOU DO AS I SAY, OKAY?
William Regal: OKAY.
Eric Bischoff: Good, now that’s your first and final warning. If I so much as get an inkling you’re thinkin’ about makin’ another match for Vengeance without runnin’ it by me first, you’re gone you understand?
Regal stands there acting stubborn.
Eric Bischoff: Do you understand?
William Regal: YES, I GET THE BLOODY MESSAGE.
Eric Bischoff: GOOD. . . You know, I think I need a drink. I’ll be back in a minute. Now don’t do anything stupid while I’m gone like puttin’ me in a match with Todd Grisham.
Bischoff turns round and walks out of the door, but Regal tries to stop himself laughing, but fails.
William Regal: Don’t you worry about me Eric, I’d be more concerned about myself if I were you.
He sits down grinning as the camera zooms in on him.
{Cut to Ringside}
***Match #5***
King of the Ring Contenders Tag Team Match
Rey Mysterio & Kofi Kingston w/Kelly Kelly vs Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella
ENDING: Dykstra struggles to his feet and turns round in to a stiff kick to the gut from Kofi, who then tries for an irish whip. Kenny manages to reverse it and throws Kofi in to the ropes, and as he comes back, he nails Kofi with a perfectly executed standing dropkick. He sits up and looks in to the crowd with a big smirk on his face, looking very pleased with himself as he makes a complacent cover on the Intercontinental Champion. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kingston gets his shoulder up comfortably and attempts to sit up straight away as Kenny picks himself back up to a vertical base and pulls Kofi up, setting him up under his arm. He then lfts him vertically up in to the air for a suplex and falls back, sending Kofi’s back crashing in to the canvas. He then stands up and poses for the crowd, stretching both arms out and looking very smug once again, but he then connects with a leg drop on Kofi. The arrogant young superstar returns to his feet again and decides to walk in to the corner and climb all the way up to the top rope with Kofi still on the mat. Dykstra takes a quick look in to the crowd before leaping off, looking to hit the GUILLOTINE LEG DROP. . . . . As Kenny comes gliding through the air towards the mat, Kofi rolls to the side as Dykstra just crash lands on the mat to the delight of the crowd. Both men then struggle back up, and Kofi ducks a right hand from Kenny and follows up with a RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP. . . . . The crowd cheer that one, but Kofi can’t take advantage straight away, allowing Kenny time to recover too. Kofi’s up first though, and he runs back in to the ropes, and as he comes back, he nails Kenny with a HIGH ANGLE REVERSE ELBOW SMASH. . . . . Kofi returns to his feet right away and looks to capitalise by hitting Kenny with a DOUBLE LEG DROP TO THE CHEST. . . . .
The crowd cheer for Kofi, and he looks to take his chance this time and hooks the leg of Dykstra for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kenny gets his shoulder up to stop the count going any further, and as Kofi stands back up, Rey calls out for the tag, wanting to get his hands on Dykstra himself. He gets his wish too as Kofi walks over and makes the tag, sending the crowd wild as Mysterio steps through the ropes and runs at Dykstra gets to his knees, runs through in to the ropes and comes back as Kenny gets up to take him down with a SPRINGBOARD CROSS BODY. . . . . That gets a big pop too as Rey holds on for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Dykstra kicks out with Rey pushing back up to his feet with Kenny not far behind, and Dykstra turns in to TILT-A-WHIRL HEAD SCISSORS THAT SEND HIM ON TO THE MIDDLE ROPE. . . . . The fans go nuts as Rey dials up for the 619. . . . . He then turns back and runs the ropes, but as he runs at Kenny, Dykstra comes to life and stands up, turning round to take Rey down with a thunderous LARIAT. . . . . The disappointment is obvious while both men hit the deck, but Kenny gets up first and walks in to his corner, making the tag to Santino who gets booed as he steps through the ropes. He stops and looks in to the stands with a look of shock on his face that they’re actually booing him. He then gets to work as he walks over to the squirming Rey and kicks him in the head, then urges him to get up, taunting him in the process. He then pulls Rey up to his feet, but Rey fights back and takes the Italian by surprise, hitting him with a right hand and a chop before whipping him in to the ropes.
Santino holds on to the top rope though with Rey running right at him, but in to a raised boot that send shim staggering away. As Mysterio then turns round, Marella runs at him and takes him down with a clothesline. Rey gets up very quickly, but Santino sends him right back down, pulling Rey in to him and planting him with a JAWBREAKER. . . . . Santino gets overexcited and looks to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Rey gets his shoulder up, just, and Santino can’t believe it. He stands up in a strop and has a go at the referee for several seconds before turning round and walking in to the corner. He then climbs all the way up to the top rope and looks in to the crowd before leaping off for a DIVING HEADBUTT. . . . . But Rey moves to the side with Santino driving his own head in to the mat. Kofi tries to get the fans to encourage Rey, and they do just that as both he and Santino slowly pick themselves up with Rey close by to the ropes. Santino throws a wild right at him but Rey drop toe holds him on to the second rope, creating a huge roar as Mysterio once again dials up for the 619. . . . . The crowd are on their feet as Rey turns back to run the ropes, but Dykstra enters the ring and runs at him as Rey hits the ropes, but Rey sees him coming up and holds the top rope down with Kenny going over it to the outside. The fans are going nuts as Rey then runs across the ring and connects with the 619. . . . . . It sends Santino back across the ring, and as he stands back up looking very groggy, Rey steadies himself on the apron before hitting the WEST COAST POP. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.
WINNERS: Rey Mysterio & Kofi Kingston by pinfall @ 7.08.
AFTERMATH: “Booyaka 619” blasts out to a huge pop as Dykstra sits up on the outside and looks on in total frustration. Kofi joins Rey in the ring and they have a little guy hug as Kelly then climbs inside, watching them as they both go to adjacent corners and pose for the crowd to a deafening amount of noise with Dykstra looking disgusted.
{Commercial Break}
“Priceless” hits with
the Million Dollar Champion, Ted DiBiase Jr & “The Million Dollar Woman” Maryse walking down to the ring as the fans boo them. DiBiase doesn’t seem to care, and he’s dressed in trousers, shirt and an expensive looking leather jacket with the Million Dollar title draped over his shoulder. DiBiase sits on the middle rope to allow Maryse through, and she walks over to demand a microphone for her man.
Ted DiBiase: Over the last week I have had to put up with some rather laughable accusations being thrown in my direction. . . It appears that a number of people have decided that I am a coward.
*Pop*
Ted DiBiase: Well I’m here to tell each and every one of those people that they are wrong. . . I AM NOT A COWARD.
*Heat*
Ted DiBiase: THINK WHAT YOU LIKE, THE FACT OF THE MATTER IS I AM NOT A COWARD, AND I’M GONNA PROVE IT SUNDAY NIGHT AT THE KING OF THE RING. THE ONLY REASON I WASN’T HERE LAST WEEK WAS BECAUSE OF MY DAD. IT HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH ME BEING A COWARD. IF I’D ‘AVE HAD IT MY WAY, I’D ‘AVE STOOD IN THIS RING OPPOSITE FINLAY AND TOLD HIM I’M NOT SORRY EVEN A LITTLE BIT FOR WHAT I DID TO THAT LITTLE BASTARD.
*Tons of boos*
Ted DiBiase: Had it not been for my dad telling me to reflect on my actions and to think about the consequences, I would have done just that and spat right in Finlay’s face.
*Heat*
Ted DiBiase: What, you don’t like that? . . . No, I’m sure my dad doesn’t either, but all I’m doing is speaking the truth, something you’ve always told me to do dad. . . Anyway, I did reflect on my actions and watched the tape back to see just what I did t’ Hornswoggle, and it did make me think. It made me think of all the things I could have done but didn’t, but hey, there’s always time right? . . . So for those of you that are expecting or hoping for an apology, I’m sorry t’ disappoint you but you’ve had a wasted journey. I’m just sorry I didn’t. . .
“Lambeg” plays with an irate
Finlay storming down the ramp with a microphone.
Finlay: CUT THE DAMN MUSIC.
The music cuts as a smug DiBiase stands in the ring with a worried looking Maryse, waiting for Finlay. The Irishman climbs through the ropes and walks towards them.
Finlay: So you think you’re some kind of tough guy huh for beatin’ up a leprechaun? . . . You know what I say t’ that? . . . I still think you’re a coward.
*Big Pop*
Finlay: You’re out here actin’ like some kind of big man because you beat up someone less than half your size. That makes you a coward in my book kid, and you might not be sorry now, but trust me, you will be Sunday night when I really show you how to beat someone up.
*Pop*
Finlay: You can delude yourself all y’want, but when you get in the ring with me at the King of the Ring, you’ll regret ever layin’ your hands on Hornswoggle, I promise you. . . This isn’t about that title. This is about makin’ you pay for what you did. Takin’ that title from that spoiled ass of yours will just be a bonus.
*Cheers*
Finlay: I’m gonna make you sorry for everythin’ you did to Hornswoggle and hurt you just as much as you did to him, and from that look in your eye, you know how much trouble you’re in. Your dad can’t get you out of it this time. There’s no wormin’ your way out of this kid. You might not wanna admit it, but you’re scared, and you should be.
Ted DiBiase: I’m not scared.
Finlay: You are, and you have every right to be. I’m gonna do things to you that you could never imagine. . .
Ted DiBiase: . . . Blah, blah, blah. Give it a rest will ya?
*Heat*
Ted DiBiase: You think I’m scared of a fifty year old man? . . . C’mon, get real. My dad’s best days are nearly twenty years behind him, but he’d still beat you like I’m goin’ to at the King of the Ring.
Finlay: Go on, you think that, but you’re wrong. I’m gonna beat some much needed respect in to you, you arrogant. . .
Maryse grabs the microphone from Ted.
Maryse: . . . Shut your mouth. . . Do you think these people care about what you have to say? . . . No I don’t think so. And do you want to know why? . . . It is because you are not important. You are nothing. My man here is a star, a real man and he’s going to show the world just that when he embarrasses you at the King of the Ring, because he is a champion and you’re. . . well, you’re irrelevant.
Ted looks proud of Maryse as she passes the microphone back to him. He smiles at her while Finlay looks like right on the edge, but DiBiase quickly turns and hits Finlay in the face with the microphone. The fans boo him as he stands back and smiles as Finlay falls to the mat holding his face. DiBiase then takes Maryse by the hand and walks slowly over to the ropes, and once again he holds the rope down for her so she can climb through easily, but as Ted stands up, Finlay returns to his feet. He’s still a little dazed, but he goes after Ted Jr and clubs him across the back to a huge ovation from the crowd. He then hammers away across his back with DiBiase desperately trying to defend himself.
Maryse screams in horror on the outside. The two men hammer away at each other and fall down to the mat as they continue to exchange blows, but about
eight security workers charge down the ramp and get in the ring to try and separate them, pulling them off each other. They split up and hold off both men as Finlay tries to escape their grasp and get at DiBiase, but he can’t. They manage to get DiBiase out of the ring with the red faced Finlay still trying to fight away from the security workers while DiBiase is forced back up the ramp with Maryse following. Finlay just stares right at the Million Dollar Champion as he’s shifted out of the arena.
{Cut Backstage}
The Intercontinental Champion, Kofi Kingston is getting changed in his locker room, putting a shirt on when
Cody Rhodes bursts in and claps. Kofi doesn’t look impressed at all.
Kofi Kingston: What da hell d’you want
mahn?
Cody Rhodes: There’s no need to get aggressive Kofi, we’ve got Vengeance for that. I just thought I’d stop by and congratulate you on getting to the King of the Ring and that incredible performance out there tonight.
Kofi isn’t sure what to make of him as Cody then walks right up to him.
Cody Rhodes: But I wouldn’t get carried away if I were you. You might have a stupid crown as well that tramp Kelly to play with after the King of the Ring, but I guarantee you one thing Kofi, you won’t have the Intercontinental title for much longer. . . I hope you do get yourself caught up in the moment at the King of the Ring, and I really hope you win it, because the moment you take your eye off the ball and our steel cage match at Vengeance, I’ll have no problem raining all over your parade and taking the Intercontinental title from ya. . . Good luck Sunday buddy.
Kofi does everything he can to stay calm as Cody smirks back at him and then backs away, turns round and leaves the room. Kofi is enraged, and he turns to see a half full bottle of water. He picks it up and throws it at the wall with the camera then fading out.
***Video Promo***
{Commercial Break}
***Video Promo***
Clips of classic King of the Ring moments are shown, such as Bret Hart winning the first tournament in 1993, followed by Owen Hart in ’94 and being crowned. It then shows Stonecold Steve Austin’s famous 3:16 quote from 1996, Triple H winning a year later and Kurt Angle’s victory in 2000, and ending with Edge’s in 2001.
Voiceover: For years, there have been only memories. . . For years, we have seen superstars grow in front of our eyes. . . Many of these moments stem from one glorious night. . . The King of the Ring. . . However, once again, this special night will create memories, champions and hall of famers. . . The King of the Ring returns to the WWE calendar this Sunday, live from The Staples Center in Los Angeles, Calfiornia.
JR: Well folks, this Sunday night sees the return of the King of the Ring, and I for one can’t tell y’how excited I am. . .
JR: . . . However, it’s not all about the King of the Ring tournament itself as CM Punk is gonna find out when he defends the World Heavyweight Championship against MVP, the man he beat at Judgment Day to win the Money in the Bank contract that he would cash in later on in the same night t’ win the world title from Shawn Michaels.
The King: We’ve seen how angry that’s made MVP the last couple of weeks JR, and I just wonder how much angrier he’s gonna be this Sunday when he goes one on one with the title up for grabs.
JR: We’ve got some great Raw action too for you folks with Finlay takin’ on Ted DiBiase Junior for the Million Dollar Championship.
The King: I’ll tell y’what JR, I don’t think I’ve ever seen anybody get under the skin of Finlay quite like DiBiase has recently. I fear for DiBiase and his Million Dollar title, I really do.
JR: We’re gonna crown a King this weekend, there’s no doubt about that, but are we gonna crown a new WWE Champion in Jeff Hardy?
The King: No way JR. I have to admit, Jeff’s been incredible since coming back to Monday Night Raw, but he’s not facin’ Rey Mysterio or Mister Kennedy this time. . . he’s goin’ straight t’ hell t’ face The Big Red Machine Kane. . . I just don’t see how Jeff can overcome the monster that is Kane. Sorry JR.
JR: Well we’re gonna find out soon enough King in what should be an incredible night at The Staples Center this Sunday night in L.A.
{Cut to Ringside}
“No More Words” hits to a massive pop inside the arena as
Jeff Hardy walks out to the stage.
Lilian Garcia: The following contest is a NO HOLDS BARRED MATCH.
*Big Pop*
Lilian Garcia: Introducing first, from Cameron, North Carolina, weighing in at two hundred and twenty five pounds. . . JEFFF HAR-DYYYYY!
*Huge Pop*
Jeff walks to either side of the stage and then sets his pyro off before walking down to the ring with a focused yet confident look on his face as he slides inside, racing in to the corner and climbing up to the second rope, posing for the electric crowd.
“Voices” hits with boos ringing out as
Randy Orton calmly walks out to the stage and down the ramp, not looking all that happy to be competing.
Lilian Garcia: And his opponent, from St. Louis, Missouri, weighing in at two hundred and forty five pounds. . . RANDY OR-TON!
*Tons of Heat*
Orton steps through the ropes and focuses right on Jeff, not taking his eyes off of him as Jeff loosens up for the match ahead.
***The Main Event***
No Holds Barred
Jeff Hardy vs Randy Orton
ENDING: Jeff picks himself back up with Orton slowly getting back up too, and Jeff stumbles over towards him and throws a right at him as Orton gets to his feet. Jeff then grabs his wrist and tries for an irish whip, but Orton comes to life and reverses it, but as Jeff runs back, Orton is met with a SPINNING WHEEL KICK. . . . . The crowd cheer, and as they both get back up, Jeff runs past Orton and in to the corner to springboard and hit the WHISPER IN THE WIND. . . . . That’s met with a massive roar as both men return their feet again with Jeff in the box seat, welcoming the dazed Orton in to his grasp and a SIT OUT JAWBREAKER. . . . . Orton doesn’t fall down but staggers and spins round as Jeff then returns to his feet to plant him with the TWIST OF FATE. . . . . The crowd are going nuts for Jeff as he turns over as quick as he can to turn the deadly still Orton on to his back and hook the leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Orton somehow gets his shoulder up at the very last second. Jeff and the fans can’t believe it, and Jeff sits up in shock, staring in to the crowd for a good five seconds before standing back up. With Orton still not moving, Jeff decides to go high risk and walks towards the apron, stepping through the ropes as Orton now comes to life, rolling on to one knee as Jeff climbs his way up to the top rope with the fans cheering him on. As he gets there though, Orton is up on both his knees and crawls across to the ropes, nudging them slightly and resulting in Jeff dropping in to a sitting position on the top rope.
Boos ring out as the still dazed Orton slowly stands up, using the ropes as support as he then walks across to Jeff and grabs him by the head, placing it under his arm and dragging him down the pads so that only his feet are resting on the ropes. The fans know what’s coming as Orton falls back and plants him with a ROPE HUNG SPIKE DDT. . . . . Jeff looks out of it as Orton then looks sadistically in to the crowd before turning Jeff over and hooking his near leg. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Jeff gets his foot on the bottom rope to the relief and delight of the crowd, but Orton isn’t pleased at all. He stares down in amazement, but it’s clear he wants to hurt Jeff as he slowly stands back up and slips out of the ring under the bottom rope to grab a steel chair. He then slides back in as Jeff starts to sit up, and Orton has malicious intent in mind as he locks his eyes on Jeff, not taking them off of him as he tries to stand up with the aid of the ropes. As he steadies himself and then turns round, Orton runs at him with the chair, but Jeff ducks with the chair falling to the floor. Orton and Jeff then turn to face each other, and Jeff nails him with a LEG FEED SPINNING MULE KICK. . . . . Both men fall to the mat, and Orton rolls out of the ring under the bottom rope. As Orton slowly makes his way back up with the ramp not so far behind him, Jeff runs in to the corner and jumps up to the top rope to springboard and take Orton down with a REVERSE CROSS BODY. . . . . The fans cheer Jeff once again as both men hit the floor, and as Orton comes round, he decides to crawl up the ramp with Jeff standing up and slowly following him, allowing Orton to get halfway up before stomping him across the back.
Randy then tries to drag himself forward, but Jeff follows him and stomps him all the way to the top of the stage, and then pulls him up to his feet. He then drives his knee in to Orton’s gut, sending The Legend Killer down to his knees, and Jeff follows up with a stiff kick to the face. He then walks to the back for no reason, but he soon walks back out with a steel chair, and the fans cheer once again as Jeff looks to scramble Orton’s brains across the chair. Jeff gets ready as Orton stands up, and as he gets to his feet, JEFF SMASHES HIM ACROSS THE SKULL WITH THE CHAIR. . . . . Huge cheers echo round the arena once more as Jeff drops the chair and looks to the back again, and then makes his way through the curtain, but this time he comes back holding a ladder. It’s deafening inside the Pensacola Civic Center as Jeff walks out with the ladder with Orton slowly sitting back up, busted open by the chair shot. Jeff holds the ladder across his chest as he waits for Orton to get up, and as Orton eventually makes it to his feet, Jeff looks to hit him in the head with the ladder. But Orton ducks the shot, and as Jeff turns round, Orton kicks the ladder back in to Jeff’s chest, sending Jeff down with the ladder on top of him. The Legend Killer immediately reaches down and pulls the ladder off of Jeff, then takes a short breather, trying to recover as best as he can. With Jeff finding it difficult to stand, Orton stands there with a big smirk on his face while staring in to the crowd.
Jeff tries to climb up Randy’s legs to help himself up, but Orton doesn’t mind and gestures for him to get up with his right hand, seemingly getting ready to finish him off. As Jeff manages to stand up, Orton turns and jumps up, looking to hit the RKO, BUT JEFF PUSHES HIM FORWARD AND HE LANDS BACK FIRST ON THE STEEL. . . . . Chants of “Holy Shit” echo around the arena as Orton rolls around screaming in agony while Jeff kneels down to get his breath back. The referee goes to check on Orton, but Jeff stands up by ladder and sets it up by the edge of the stage to a massive pop. However, just as he starts to climb it, Kane walks out and pulls him down off the second rung. He hammers him with an uppercut thrust and then grabs him by the head to drive him in to the set, head first. Jeff’s head just bounces off as he then slumps down it, but Kane isn’t done at all as Paul Bearer watches on with a big smile on his face while Jeff then crawls towards the end of the stage. The Big Red Machine then drags Jeff up by his throat and keeps the grip locked in as he prepares to CHOKESLAM JEFF OFF THE STAGE. . . . . But Jeff fights back and swipes his right foot in to Kane’s groin, sending the WWE Champion to his knees. Jeff then crawls away from the edge of the stage as EMT’s come on check on Orton and help him to the back, but Jeff sees the ladder and turns back to see Kane standing back up at the side of the stage.
Bearer starts to panic as Jeff stands up and picks the ladder up, then turns round to walk over to Kane. As Kane turns round, JEFF HITS HIM ACROSS THE SKULL WITH THE LADDER, SENDING KANE OFF THE STAGE AND THROUGH SEVERAL EMPTY BOXES TO A HUGE POP FROM THE SELL OUT CROWD. . . . . Kane lies there completely helpless as Bearer looks on in shock. Jeff then lets go of the ladder, dropping it on the stage as the referee then rushes down the steps at the side of the stage to check on Kane, who isn’t moving at all as Jeff looks at the set. He then looks at some of the scaffolding that supports the stage and walks on over, climbing it with the crowd willing him on as he gets higher and higher up the set. The referee panics and pleads for him not to jump, waving his arms about drastically as Jeff stops and turns to the face the crowd again, looking down at Kane lying there completely out of it. The Charismatic Enigma then does his signature taunt and leaps off, HITTING KANE WITH A SWANTON BOMB THROUGH ALL THE WRECKAGE. . . . . More “Holy Shit” chants echo around the arena as the ref urgently calls for help from the back with both Jeff and Kane in desperate need of medical attention. Stretchers are brought out from the curtain area at the side of the arena while Bearer wanders across to take a look at the carnage, and he stares down in horror to see both men being tended to as the show comes to a close.
RESULT: No Contest @ 13.40.
{End of Show}
QUICK RESULTS
Kane
df. Mr. Kennedy
Victoria
df. Natalya Neidhart
Goldust
df. The Miz
Brian Kendrick
df. Paul London
Rey Mysterio & Kofi Kingston
df. Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella
Jeff Hardy
No Contest. Randy Orton
CONFIRMED FOR THE KING OF THE RING (This Sunday)
WWE Championship
Jeff Hardy vs Kane (c)
World Heavyweight Championship
Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) vs CM Punk (c)
Million Dollar Championship
Finlay vs Ted DiBiase Jr (c)
The King of the Ring Tournament
Participants
From Raw: Kenny Dykstra, Santino Marella, Kofi Kingston & Rey Mysterio
From Smackdown: Elijah Burke, Chavo Guerrero, Matt Sydal, Shelton Benjamin