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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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14
#1,172 ·
RAW Feedback

Something of a short promo here, but huge results coming from it. I liked that Bischoff had a legit excuse for not helping Kofi out last week, as he had to deal with Evolution (perhaps a sign that things are getting a little out of hand for him?), and Cody, he wasn't the best he's been lately, but this was still very good, and made me want to see him get his ass kicked again. The biggest thing I didn't like was that Cody said he didn't care about being the King of the Ring. Being the IC Champ's great and all, but being the King sounds just a little bigger to me. Anywho, the Last Chance Steel Cage Match for the IC Title sounds awesome, you'll be able to do a lot with Kofi and his crazy high-flying inside. Great opening to the show, if not a little short, and I'm glad we got some light shed on those KOTR qualifyers, and a huge match already set up for Vengeance. Good job.

Santino's pre-match promo was good but not as funny as it could've been. The match was pretty high-paced stuff with Jimmy doing his thing, but I didn't expect him to win. I liked the ending, as it was flukey enough for Santino, but legit enough to consider it a big win for him. I don't see him going very far in the tournament, but he should provide for a quick match for someone.

Good exchange between Bischoff and Kennedy, Bischoff just seems more and more like a face, something I'm buying, and feeling odd about buying it. Regardless, this really showed that Kennedy's got a level head going into his big match, should be an great one. The real awesome part of this promo, though, was Bearer. He was just great, especially two lines in particular, the one about winning tonight being the same as drawing the short straw, which in turns basically means the same thing as the other line, about how the title match at KOTR isn't a reward. Great job here, looking forward to the main event.

I've never liked Kenny, so this jackass character he has is perfect for him. Rey made a lot of good points, and I do hope he gets his shot at shutting Kenny up, it'd be a great moment if he gets crushed.

Good match here between Kofi and Kendrick, very good. Kendrick had a great showing against the IC Champ to help boost his credibility, something he'll need for his feud with London. London himself appearing should've been a nice touch to help sell the feud, but I didn't feel like it worked as well. Maybe it was the way it was written, but it seemed like it stole Kofi's thunder a bit. Still, good to see him in the KOTR tournament. He's a fairly big name that can go far, but I don't see him winning. Nevertheless, good stuff.

Lackluster match to be honest. It wasn't as competitive as I felt it should've been, with it being 80% Natalya, 20% Melina. I did like Natalya keeping in the Sharpshooter even with Melina at the ropes, pretty devastating stuff. I didn't like the finish, either. I'm not picturing the double ref count working very well with a German suplex, an inside cradle might've worked better in that scenario. Either way, things came out like I expected, with both winning and making the match for the Women's Title a Triple Threat. Good commantary from Victroria at the end, though, shows she's confident. All in all, though, didn't really like this.

Damn, Bischoff completely told both Finlay and Regal! I'm liking this guy more and more, especially after he ran down Finlay and Hornswoggle, awesome stuff. I also liked that he got super-pissed at Regal, and showed him who's truly the man in charge by putting him in the match. It's not going to do him any favors by Regal, though, who hasn't liked being under his thumb at all, and must be super-pissed himself with what he's making him do. Great stuff here.

I want to call this segment with The Corporation filler, because it came off that way, but it's not. It was to set up Batista's apology (I'm sure he won't be apologizing for anything, though), and remind us of what Evolution did to the McMahons, and JBL and co. did to them as retribution. Still felt like filler, though.

Ah, Regal walking out is sure to not be a move Bischoff'll be pleased with. But anyway, I liked DiBiase's promo, greatly worded. What I didn't like, though, was that it sort of sounds like DiBiase's babying his kid. I understand that he's a dad looking out for his son, but I don't know if I like the idea of the father getting in his business, whether he wants to or not. Reminds of the old saying, "Hiding behind mommy's skirt." Regardless, it was a great promo, and gave the Million Dollar Title some good hype for KOTR, something that it's needed.

Morrison was again awesome here, you write him very well, shame you're not much of a fan of his. Candice was also good at snuffing out the jackasses, and Cryme Tyme got a good shot at the champs. The Colons and Perez beating them down and them telling Miz and Morrison they're next was good stuff, too, heating things up for the Tag division. Still, I feel this needs a turning-point moment that'll really pull you in. Hope we get it soon.

Great match here. Both men looked great here, especially Cody, who lost the match mostly through his own fault. With that said, I'd find it a little odd that he'd be willing to get himself DQ'ed during the match, but I guess it's like he said earlier, he doesn't care about KOTR. Still, he looked like a legit contender in the match, while Rey was also great, as the man called the underdog but more often than not usually has things going his way. Great stuff here, Rey in the KOTR tournament just got a lot better, and I see him as someone that can take the crown.

Batista's in the building, and he means business after how he told off The Colons. Looking forward to what he has to say.

Batista felt awfully sincere in his apology to the men he let down last week, which is pointing in one direction. If this goes in that direction, we'll have to stay tuned to find out. But anyway, Big Dave was very good here, making it clear that he's not making an excuse, and it sounds like a legitimate reason for him to have been gone. JBL was even better here, with him putting all the blame for what happened last week on Dave, and he had a good point as well. However, it's an opinion based on half-fact, but it seems to be having the desired effect on Batista. Bischoff coming out to lay down the law was also great, although I'm not sure things'll be with JBL and co. being suspended for two weeks. Maybe Vince and Shane make a comeback? Or will they appear anyway? Lots of ways this can go, definitely looking forward to it.

I hate to sound like Michael Cole, but damn that snake Regal. Aligning himself with The Corporation, they just became a lot more powerful. Wonder what kind of favors he'll make for them, like override a suspension?

Awesome match to end the show. I've always found that Jeff and Kennedy have good chemistry, and you made it work very well here. The aftermath to the match was just as great, though. Orton was a little expected, after all signs said he wasn't around (they always are, though) and Kane coming out to "congratulte" Jeff, per se, was a good way to give the feud a little more fire with a lot of time left until the show. I've never been a very big fan of tweener characters, and it seems as if that's the case with Kane, but it seems like he might be going full-fledged heel, especially with him usually going up against faces for the previous weeks (Cryme Tyme, Evolution, etc.). Anyway, great stuff to end the show, looking forward to more.

This wasn't your best show, but coming off a huge SD!, I understand if you were a little drained. Still, it was an entertaining show, with some good build for KOTR, and already starting some matches for Vengeance. It delivered in more Kofi/Cody/Kelly goodness and I'm definitely looking forward to the Steel Cage Match between them, but I also feel that the Women's Title Triple Threat's going to need some help. The thing that I probably enjoyed the most about this one, though, was the Bischoff/Regal dissension. Bischoff's working well as a face, something I'd never expect, and with Regal joining The Corp, it's looking to make some great segments here. Not your best work, but still good stuff. 7.5/10.
 
#1,173 ·
Smackdown Preview - Friday 6th June 2008
Live From the US Airways Center
Phoenix, Arizona




THE NEW CHAMP HOLDS ON
CM Punk made his first Smackdown appearance as the World Heavyweight Champion last week, and it was much more of a difficult night than he could have possibly imagined as he was confronted by the man he took the title from five nights earlier. “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels made it clear just how he felt about Punk’s decision to cash in the Money in the Bank at Judgment Day, and he wasn’t in the mood to wait around for his rematch. Despite being beat up from his Judgment Day match with The Undertaker, he fought on but fell short with a cheap low blow adding to his misery as Punk pulled out all the stops to retain his newly won title. However, The Straight Edge Superstar wasn’t done there and tried to add insult to injury before MVP, the man he won the Money in the Bank contract from at Judgment Day played the role of the unlikely hero, saving Michaels from any further punishment at the hands of the new World Champion.

We’ve been advised that there will be an update on Shawn’s condition, but what lies in store for the Punk this week on Smackdown?

JERICHO RETURNS TO WAKE THE DARK SIDE​
We’ve been eagerly awaiting the return of Chris Jericho since his draft to Smackdown, but he took everyone by surprise last Friday night as he marked his debut on the blue brand. Instead of entertaining the fans as we’ve come to expect, he directed his return speech at the Judgment Day title match between Shawn Michaels & The Undertaker, but more importantly at his disappointment in The Undertaker. He criticised the phenom and his hunger to compete, bringing the dead man out in to a face to face confrontation. Jericho showed no fear and continued to question The Undertaker’s desire, and with the phenom’s failure to respond verbally or physically, it begs the question of whether Jericho hit a nerve.

Is Jericho right? Has The Undertaker lost his drive to compete? Maybe we’ll find out more this Friday night in Phoenix.

THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE BROTHERLY LOVE​
Christian & Edge exchanged harsh words at Judgment Day when Captain Charisma shocked us all with his return to the WWE, but the brothers continued where they left off five days earlier last week on Smackdown. It became abundantly clear that Christian is far from impressed with how Edge has behaved in his absence from the company and that Edge remains confident that his brother will never amount to anything. The younger brother (Christian) tried to put that to the test by challenging his big brother to a match, but Edge told him and the watching world that he is still not cleared to compete due to the back injury that has kept him out of action since April.

Whether it’s true or not, Christian will be getting his hands dirty this week on Smackdown when he competes in his first match since his return. Will he prove Edge wrong? Tune in to find out.

SHELTON IN SHOCK DEFEAT​
Shelton Benjamin was positively glowing after overcoming the odds to retain his United States Championship following the scramble match at Judgment Day when he went along to see Tazz last week to brag about his success. It came as no real surprise that the General Manager was less than impressed by Benjamin and his big mouth, and he put The Gold Standard in a match with Matt Sydal later on that night. To the surprise of many, Sydal followed up his impressive victory over Johnny Jeter at Judgment Day with a huge win over the United States Champion in a non title match.

Benjamin couldn’t hide his shock at the outcome, but will he be able to get over it quickly?

MASTERS GET THEMSELVES ANOTHER SHOT​
There was no sympathy for The Masters of the Mat after they tasted defeat at Judgment Day in their tag team title match against The UK Pack when the broken wrist of Burchill came back to haunt them and cost them the gold. Last week, the angry duo of Chris Masters & Charlie Haas went right to Tazz and demanded action, but despite having no sympathy, the Smackdown GM did feel they had a case for a rematch, but he made sure they weren’t rewarded with a title match since it was their fault they were responsible for Burchill wearing the case in the first place. He put them in a no disqualification match and would allow them a rematch for the titles if they could defeat the champions, and they did just that following a chair shot to Burchill’s broken wrist.

Now they’ve got their foot back in the door, how will the number one contenders respond this week? And how will Burchill and Harry Smith feel about having to face them again?

FROM ‘CONVICT’ TO A 'KING'?​
Ron Killings is out for the ultimate revenge this Friday night when he goes one on one with his bitter rival, Chavo Guerrero, the man who has tried to get him fired, brutally attacked both verbally and physically. Last week when it was announced that they would meet this week for a place in the King of the Ring tournament, Chavo told Josh Matthews that he was going to make sure ‘the convict’ wasn’t going to be rewarded with the opportunity to be a King.

This week will see him try and prevent Killings from that opportunity, and it also presents Killings with the opportunity to unload on the man who’s made his life hell recently. Just one question remains; who will come out on top?

BETH SAVES THE DAY FOR MIA​
There was some uneasy tension last week between Beth Phoenix and the impressive recent addition to Smackdown’s roster, Mia Rain. Later on in the evening, Rain defeated Maria in singles action when Mickie James & Michelle McCool looked to be trying to settle the score with the intimidating diva until The Glamazon came to the rescue and helped Rain fight them off.

Rain looked just as confused as the rest of us, but why did Beth help her out? Tune in this week to see if we get ourselves an answer.

SWAGGER DEBUTS IN STYLE​
It wasn’t just Chris Jericho & Christian that made their Smackdown debuts last week, Jack Swagger made his first ever WWE appearance and made short work of a WWE legend in “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan in the process. The youngster looked to have a lot about him, and word has it that he will back again this week to show the world the talent he possesses.

Will he be able to follow up on his dominant performance form last week? Make sure you watch Smackdown this Friday live from the US Airways Center in Phoenix, Arizona to find out more about this highly talented young superstar.


CONFIRMED FOR SMACKDOWN THIS WEEK

King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Ron Killings vs Chavo Guerrero

Plus
2 more King of the Ring Qualifying Matches

Christian makes his Smackdown debut

Jack Swagger in action

An update on the condition of “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels​


 
#1,175 ·
Hosting the show in my hometown? Better be good.

From the looks of it, a Punk/MVP feud seems to be in the cards. These two have had golden moments together, so it should be a fantastic feud. I don't know if Shawn's completely out of the picture just yet, and might play a part in helping MVP. Looks great.

The Jericho/'Taker feud also looks to be very good, got off to an awesome start last week. Looking forward to seeing what the next step'll be this week.

Christian's first match back in the WWE is full of awesomeness. Hopefully it's against an opponent that'll be able to make it a good back-and-forth encounter, and I'm looking forward to seeing what role Tomko'll play. He's a wild card at this point, as he could not help and just watch out for Edge, or help to make Christian a heelish face. Should be good.

Sydal getting into the US Title picture is a great move, and it'll be fun to see what sort of excuse Shelton'll make regarding his loss. Should be a great feud with plenty of awesome matches.

The feud over the Tag Titles has been picking up steam very nicely, and this edition of SD! should be no different. Hoping to hear from both sides.

Killings/Chavo has had great build-up to it, and with a spot in the KOTR on the line, it makes this match all that more important. I hope the feud doesn't end here, though, it still has enough for a few more miles.

Diva interaction is always a joy for me, and I'm definitely looking forward to what goes down this week. Mia's been very impressive, Beth and Mickie are both awesome, it looks awesome.

Swagger didn't have the most competent opponent last week, so I hope he gets more of a challenge this week. Seems like you've got plans for this guy, and it should be interesting to see them unfold.

Show looks pretty stacked, Nige, should be awesome. I'll be looking out for it.
 
#1,178 ·
Card looks great I hope what happened after the last Smackdown main event leads to either Punk vs. MVP at King of the Ring or a triple threat match with Michaels can't wait to see the fall out from that.

Killings versus Chavo I think that is great little fued they had going and both should be in King of the Ring, lol But I hope Killings wins I'm not a Chavo fan at all and I think Killings will win.

I hope Christian gets a good debut I don't want to see Hacksaw get throw out for him I want to see him against a real competetior that would give him a really good match. Maybe Matt Hardy or something.

I would mark out for Sydal getting the US Title
 
#1,179 · (Edited)


Homepage

>Flo Rida To Perform at the Premiere of WWE Superstars<

Following the success of his debut album “Mail On Sunday”, Flo Rida will be performing his third track from the album when “WWE Superstars” returns to television on Saturday 21st June in two weeks in his home state of Florida. The WWE can also confirm that the show will be held at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach.

The track entitled “In The Ayer” also features will.i.am from The Black Eyed Peas as well as Tiffany Villarreal, and they will be on hand to perform the highly anticipated single after the debut hit “Low” stormed to number one here in the States, Canada and Australia to name just a few countries. He followed that up recently with “Elevator” featuring Timbaland, and the WWE fans on hand in the Sunshine State will be fortunate enough to hear the first live performance of the track.

Kevin Dunn, Executive Vice President of Television Production said, “It’s a huge coup for us to have Flo Rida performing at the premiere of WWE Superstars, and based on how his debut album is fairing, it should bring in a few more viewers we hope. We were made aware that this new song would be coming out very soon and that the premiere of his video is just days before the King of the Ring. We listened to it and liked it a lot, and he was thrilled to be asked to perform it for our fans, so it works out great for both parties. When he agreed, we discussed the possibility of where we would be holding the show, and that’s when we decided on Florida and the Ocean Center. Now we just can’t wait for the King of the Ring and Superstars. It’s an exciting time for sure for everyone involved with the WWE.”

Make sure you don’t miss the return of “WWE Superstars” when it hits your screens two weeks from tonight, only on WGN America.



Edit: For the record, i'm not a fan of Flo Rida. I trailed through so many musicians to see who had a big song out at this time. It turned out not many!
 
#1,181 · (Edited)
Smackdown Results - Friday 6th June 2008
Live From the US Airways Center
Phoenix, Arizona




*Video Recap*
From Last Week

Chris Jericho returning and accusing The Undertaker of being a shadow of what he once was with The Undertaker eventually coming out and listening to Jericho’s accusations.

Shawn Michaels telling CM Punk he would be using his rematch clause later on that night.

The main event with Punk defeating Michaels after a low blow and the GTS, then looking to carry on the assault until MVP came to the rescue with Punk escaping intact.


***Opening Video***
“If You Rock Like Me”

***PYRO***
***PYRO***
***PYRO***

“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 the words I directed at The Undertaker last week out of context, and as a result they came to the wrong conclusion that I was in some way attempting to insult The Undertaker.

*Heat*

Chris Jericho: Whether you are in that same group of uneducated morons or not, the fact is that I was not intentionally disrespecting the legacy and the achievements of The Undertaker. I was only offering my own opinion based on what I saw at Judgment Day. Although you could probably go beyond there too, but if you people really 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 like I’m sure you would like t’ think. . . The conclusion that I personally came to at Judgment Day was that The Undertaker has indeed reached the end of the road.

*Major Heat*

Chris Jericho: Will you please let me finish? This is what you wanted, and as I always have, I will deliver my end of the bargain. . . To me it was blatantly obvious that The Undertaker we all saw at Judgment Day was only a mere shadow of what he used to be. Anyone who attempts to even begin denying it will be one of the millions riddled with fear at the repercussions that may follow, but I can tell you that the repercussions will not be as severe as you all believe. . . If you had the slightest bit of intelligence, you would see that is the exact point I’m trying to make. The Undertaker used to strike fear in to the hearts of whoever was unfortunate enough to cross his path, but now, that fear does not exist in those who know the truth. The only fear that I see comes from those who see The Undertaker for what he was and not what he is today. . . a broken down shell of a man.

*Heat*

Chris Jericho: Nobody, including yours truly can underestimate the legacy he has created for himself, but it’s time for everyone to look past that and see what’s standing in front of them today. His accomplishments right now are just statistics, it’s important you remember that, and all he is doing by sticking around is treading water. . . It’s clear for all of us who aren’t blinded by his demise to see that he is nowhere near the force he used to be, and it’s about time the rest of you snapped out of the delusion you’ve been swept in to t’ see what’s going on in front of your very eyes. . . No longer do his opponents fear stepping in to the squared circle with a man that could torture their sole, they see someone they could take advantage of in order to make a name for themselves. . . For years we have seen superstars like Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair refuse to walk away simply because they refuse to accept reality and the truth that there must be a culmination whether it be what they intended or not. That is that their time must come to an end, just like the time when a simple glance from The Undertaker would send a shiver down your spine. That I’m afraid is no longer the case, and the sooner The Undertaker sees this for himself, the better it will be for him to come to terms with reality and walk away from the WWE once and for all before he becomes even more of a joke.

*Major Heat*

Chris Jericho: I understand your reaction. I too respect The Undertaker for what he’s accomplished in this ring, however the bell has tolled on his near twenty year tenure in the WWE. You might not want t’ 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 when he walks away from the business that he’s created this incredible legacy for himself, 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 t’ 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 “Rest In Peace” 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: I told them that I understand their reaction, and I also understand yours. You don’t want to admit that you’re not the man you once were, but that’s why you have to listen to me. Whether they like it or not, they know what I’m saying is true, and you need to understand that no one wants to see you fall apart and tarnish the legacy that you’ve managed to create for yourself. However if you continue to walk on troubled water. . . mark my words Undertaker, both you and your legacy will sink more and more.

*Heat*

Taker stares menacingly in to the calm eyes of Jericho.

Chris Jericho: You’re an intelligent man Undertaker, and that’s why I know you already believe 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. I guarantee that there is not one person in the entire world that can admit to not once being scared in their life, but 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 either. What you’ve done is impressive, but Taker you have to face up to the facts. . . 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. “Rest In Peace” hits to a big pop as Taker stares down at the motionless Jericho.


{Commercial Break}​

“On Your Knees” hits as Jack Swagger makes his way down to the ring with a smug grin on his face while the fans boo him. As he gets in the ring, he walks over to Justin Roberts and asks for the microphone.

Jack Swagger: Last week, I gave you just a glimpse of the raw wrestling talent I possess, but I have to warn all the so called stars in the back that there is more to come from Jack Swagger. . . a whole lot more in fact, starting tonight. . . So, whichever one of you is unlucky enough to call yourself my opponent tonight, walk on down here and find out why the whole world is talkin’ about Jack Swagger.

“Muy Loco” plays as Super Crazy walks down the ramp and is introduced by Roberts to a pop from the crowd with Swagger still looking extremely confident as he waits in the ring.


***The Opening Match***

Super Crazy vs Jack Swagger​
ENDING: Swagger looks to be in control after being caught napping early on by Crazy’s speed. He pulls the Mexican back up to his feet and whips his opponent in to the corner, but as he charges in at him, Crazy lifts his boot up in to the oncoming face of Swagger. The cocky youngster is sent staggering out of the corner while Crazy pulls himself up to the second rope, and as Swagger turns round, Crazy dives off for a CROSS BODY. . . . . Swagger sees it coming though and catches him, then lifts him on to his shoulder, but as he tries to slam Crazy down, the Mexican high flier counters with a head scissors takedown. That gets a big pop as both men hit the mat, but they’re both back up quickly with Crazy kicking Swagger hard in the chest with a martial arts kick. He then turns back and runs the ropes, racing back to send Swagger back down with a SPINNING WHEEL KICK. . . . . The Arizona fans get right behind Crazy as he picks himself back up and runs right in to the corner, steps through the ropes and climbs all the way up to the top rope as Swagger starts to stand back up. As the spiky haired star manages to get to both feet and turns round, Crazy leaps off the top and connects with a MISSILE DROPKICK. . . . . Another big pop meets that move, and he scurries across to make a cover on Swagger. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .

Sighs of disappointment echo around the arena, but Crazy doesn’t look to be wasting a second as he hurries back up to his feet with Swagger rolling on to his side and then his knee. Crazy makes his way in to the corner and up to the summit once again with his back to the ring and his opponent. He turns round to see Swagger coming his way before flipping off the top for a MOONSAULT. . . . . Swagger just manages to sidestep it in time as Crazy crash lands on the mat chest first. Swagger doesn’t waste any time at all as he walks over to his opponent and drags him closer to the corner, then eyes up the corner himself, stepping up to the second rope and then connecting with a CORNER SLINGSHOT SPLASH (Vader Bomb). . . . . He crosses both his arms to say it’s over before trying for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Crazy gets his shoulder up leaving Swagger angry. He then stands back up and drags his opponent up with him, then whips him in to the ropes and ducks his head, but as Crazy comes back, he kicks Swagger right in the face. Swagger’s neck snaps back up with Crazy then running back in to the ropes, but as he comes back this time, Swagger shakes off the cobwebs and plants him with a TILT-A-WHIRL SLAM. . . . . Crazy looks in trouble as he hits the mat, but Swagger doesn’t go for the cover and opts to stand back up, bringing Crazy up with him before hitting a SPIN OUT POWERBOMB. . . . . Swagger then crawls over and makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Jack Swagger by pinfall @ 4.29.

AFTERMATH: “On Your Knees” plays once again as Swagger takes his time in standing up with a stupid smug grin before getting his arm raised by the referee. He just smirks at the negative reaction from the crowd and leaves the ring straight away, walking up the ramp with a real arrogant swagger.


{Cut Backstage}​

Maria is standing by.

Maria: Ladies and gentleman, please welcome my special guest. . . RON KILLINGS.

The very serious looking Killings walks in to the shot to a pop from the fans inside the arena.

Maria: Tonight, you go one on one with Chavo Guerrero in a King of the Ring qualifying match. What are your thoughts about the match?

Ron Killings: Maria, Chavo’s done his best t’ make my life a livin’ hell for the last month, goin’ round tellin’ anybody an’ ev’rybody ‘bout my past. But tonight Maria, I’ve got-a chance t’ turn all that ‘round. If I beat ‘im, he ain’t goin’ t’ King of the Ring. . . I am. . . Ev’rythin’ he’s said an’ done is gonna come back an’ haunt him, I promise you. An’ since he wants t’ talk ‘bout my past so much, he’ll know what I mean when I say I’m gonna beat his ass like he’s a convict himself. . . An’ I’ll tell y’somethin’ else, I’m gonna enjoy ev’ry last second of it.

Maria: Ron, before you go, I have to ask about the concussion you got at Judgment Day. . .

Ron Killings: . . . Maria honey, you let me worry ‘bout that a’ight. It don’t matter how I’m feelin’ t’night, it’s all gonna be ‘bout how Chavo’s feelin’ when I’m done beatin’ his punk ass. . . Check y’later.

Maria looks a little concerned as Killings walks out of the shot like he’s on a mission.


{Commercial Break}


***Video Promo***




{Cut Backstage}​

Tazz is walking through the back, looking quite happy with life, but as he turns a corner, he stops and the smile disappears from his face with the camera then zooming out to show The Masters of the Mat, Chris Masters & Charlie Haas leaning against some production boxes. Their faces on the other hand light up.

Tazz: Oh great, what in god’s name ‘ave I done to deserve this pleasure?

Chris Masters: Y’know what Tazz, I think you should give yourself a break. You did a good thing for once last week, and I know I speak for Charlie when I say we’re real happy with how it turned out. It’s good t’ know you actually have some use around here, even if it isn’t all that often.

Tazz: Look, I don’t need t’ listen to you running your mouth. Believe it or not, I’ve got better things t’ do like bang my head against a wall. So if y’don’t mind fellas, I’m gonna go do jus’ that.

Tazz tries to walk past them, but Masters shifts to the side, blocking Tazz in his path.

Chris Masters: What’s up chief? You not gonna celebrate with us? . . . After all, we are the number one contenders for the tag titles once again, and I hear Burchill had another visit to the emergency room last week after someone hurt his arm again. . . You really have t’ feel sorry for him don’t ya boss?

Tazz: Let me think about it for a minute. Am I gonna celebrate with you two? . . . Hmm, let me see. . . No, no I’m not. You really think I’m gonna forget ‘bout ev’rythin’ you jackasses have done since I came back to Smackdown? . . . Let me remind y’that I’m still the one who makes the decisions ‘round here, and that means pissin’ me off ain’t exactly a great way to get what y’want. . . So, it ain’t gonna come as much of a surprise that I’m tellin’ y’both that since you’re the number one contenders, you’re gonna be in action t’night. If you wanna be the champs, you’re gonna have t’ show me an’ all the people out there that you’re not just a couple of thugs who jump people from behind, an’ that you deserve the extra shot.

Chris Masters: Y’know what Tazz? You put us in as many matches as you want, it doesn’t make any difference to us ‘cause we are gonna be the next WWE Tag Team Champions if you like it or not. . . We’ll see y’later boss. You take care.

The smug Masters and Haas then walk off down the hall with Tazz clearly annoyed by Masters’ attitude.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match #2***

King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Ron Killings vs Chavo Guerrero​
ENDING: Killings makes his way back up to his feet with Chavo closely following despite not looking too steady. Killings looks to keep the offense going and spins Chavo round in to a hard right hand, and then follows it up with an irish whip, taking Chavo down as he comes back with a JUMPING CORKSCREW FLYING FOREARM SMASH. . . . . The fans loved that and with Killings again making a sharp return to a vertical base, Chavo also pulls himself back up while still looking dazed with Killings then urging the Mexican to turn round, and as he does, The Truth levels him with a JUMPING HEEL KICK ENZIGURI. . . . . Chavo just falls flat on his back in a heap with Killings crawling across to hook both legs for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Somehow Chavo just gets his shoulder up in time to escape the cover. The fans boo initially as Killings sits up and looks shocked for a brief moment before getting back on track. He then gets up to his feet and walks in to the corner, steps through the ropes and climbs all the way up to the top rope with Chavo not showing any signs of movement. The Truth looks in to the crowd and gets a big cheer before jumping off for a DIVING LEG DROP. . . . . But no! Guerrero just rolls to the side at the last second as Killings hits the mat. Both men remain down for a while with Chavo crawling towards the ropes to help himself up as Killings tries to make his own way back up in the centre of the ring unassisted. As Killings makes it up and turns round, he sees Chavo leaning against the ropes and runs at him, but Chavo reacts quickly to duck down to his knees and pull the top rope down, resulting in Killings flying over the top and down to the floor below.

The Mexican Warrior then instructs the referee to start the count on Killings, and he does as The Truth rolls around on the floor. As the count gets to four, Killings sits back up and crawls back across to the apron, but Chavo is back on his feet as he turns round to the run ropes opposite his opponent before racing across towards Killings and nailing him with a BASEBALL SLIDE TO THE CHEST. . . . . Chavo stands up and smiles while posing for the hostile crowd who just boo him. He doesn’t care though as he steps through the ropes and pulls Killings up from his knees and shoves him back in the ring, then slides back in himself under the bottom rope. With Killings trying to get up on to his knees, Chavo clubs him across the back and then pulls him in to a position for a suplex. The Guerrero family member then lifts Killings up over his head and brings him back down, connecting with a suplex, but he holds on to the grip and clearly isn’t satisfied with delivering just one suplex. With a twist of the hips, Chavo is back on his feet with Killings then feeling the effects of another vertical suplex, and then another to complete THE THREE AMIGO’S. . . . . It gets a mixed response from the crowd with some cheering for Eddie while some just boo Chavo, but the nephew of the late great Eddie Guerrero stands up with a big smile on his face and once again poses for the hostile crowd. He then calmly walks in to the corner and climbs up to the top, pointing to the sky as Killings remains flat on his back on the canvas. Chavo then leaps off and through the sky, looking to hit the FROG SPLASH. . . . .

But this time it’s Killings who dodges the bullet and rolls to the side, resulting in a big pop from the Phoenix fans as Chavo’s chest collides with the mat. As both men struggle to their feet, Killings ducks a wild right and then spins Chavo round looking to whip him in to the ropes, but Chavo quickly reverses it and whips Killings right in to the referee. The ref falls to the mat straight away with Killings looking stunned as he shakes off his own cobwebs. Chavo then looks to take advantage by dropping to his knees behind Killings and hitting him with a LOW BLOW. . . . . That provokes a lot of boos and jeers from the crowd, but Chavo doesn’t care as he just looks down and grins at Killings squirming on the canvas. He then walks over to the ropes and steps on to the apron before jumping down to the floor below. He walks over and grabs a steel chair from the timekeeper’s table, and then turns back to slide it in to the ring with the fans booing incredibly loud as Killings slowly tries to get to his knees. The referee is barely moving as Chavo slips back inside and picks the chair back up, watching on closely as Killings manages to stand on both feet, but as he turns round, Chavo lifts the chair up above his head and SMASHES IT IN TO KILLINGS’ SKULL. . . . . The boos just echo around the US Airways Center as Killings just collapses in a heap with Chavo dropping the chair and kicking out of the ring. He then drops down to make the cover and calls for the now moving referee to make the count, and as he slowly crawls across, he then counts Killings’ shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Chavo Guerrero by pinfall @ 7.54.

AFTERMATH: “Chavo Ardiente” hits as Chavo stands back up looking very satisfied with himself. The referee then raises Chavo’s arm in to the air and sees Killings trying to sit up, but he looks very dazed, falling back down to the mat. Chavo laughs to himself before taunting the crowd by lifting both his arms in to the air as Killings is helped to sit up by the referee who checks him over. Chavo turns round and looks at his starry eyed opponent before leaving the ring with a big smile on his face.


{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 Eastern 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}


“This Fire Burns”
blasts out with CM Punk, the World Heavyweight Champion walking down to the ring in causal clothes and looking very pleased with himself, ignoring the deafening heat from the crowd. As he gets in the ring, he walks over to the ropes and calls for a microphone before walking back in to the centre of the ring, standing there with the same satisfied grin on his face.

CM Punk: Y’know, two weeks ago I was headin’ in t’ Judgment Day for a match with Matt Hardy, and now I can’t help but look back at what I’ve achieved in such a short space of time. . . Not only did I go on t’ compete in a fatal fourway match for the Money in the Bank contract, I won the match, beating three other men to earn the right to challenge for any world title of my choosing whenever I felt like it. And we all know what happened next. Shawn Michaels seemed to have a problem, as did a lot of you as it happens with the fact I could cash it in whenever I wanted, and more importantly on his time. . . Is it wrong that I took advantage of the right I earned to maximum effect t’ stand here before you as the World Heavyweight Champion?

*Heat*

CM Punk: Well according to Shawn Michaels, the answer t’ that question would be yes, but in the real word we all know that I did nothing wrong. I did what anyone with both common sense and the Money in the Bank contract would do, and that was cash in the most opportune of times. And Shawn I’m sorry that you have a problem with that, but I think you have more problems to worry about now don’t y’buddy? . . . See I’m sure Tazz would have wanted t’ be the one t’ let you all know about Shawn’s condition, but it appears that I’ve taken someone else by surprise this week. . . What can I say? It’s becoming quite a habit of mine. . . Anyway, as you’re all aware, last week I made my first defence of the World Heavyweight Championship and was able to retain my title by defeating the show stopper, the main event, the icon. And from what I hear, Shawn’s been keeping his ever decreasing condition to himself. . . well until now. . . Y’see, Shawn’s been puttin’ a brave face on things as of late, and he’s been hidin’ the fact that he’s pretty beat up. It also appears that matches with The Undertaker and then myself didn’t do him a lot of good, and as I comfortably retained my title last week, Shawn’s injuries became all the more serious, and I can now proudly tell you that my promise to hammer the final nail in the coffin of The Heartbreak Kid was not a shallow one. I did what I said I would, and this time there won’t be a miraculous comeback because I, CM Punk have put Shawn Michaels on the shelf once and for all.

*Tons of Boos*

CM Punk: I’m not gonna apologise as I did what had to be done. I told you that Smackdown needs someone ruthless and efficient as its champion, and that isn’t Shawn Michaels. . . it’s CM Punk.

*Major Heat*

CM Punk: Now. . .

“13” plays to a massive pop inside the arena as Tazz walks out to the stage with a microphone in hand. He looks all business while Punk still has the same smug grin on his face.

Tazz: Well champ, it looks like you have in fact beat me to the punch. I was gonna come out here t’night folks to inform you about Shawn Michaels’ condition, but right now I don’t wanna talk about Shawn Michaels. . . I wanna talk about CM Punk.

*Heat*

Tazz: It looks to me that you’re pretty pleased with yourself right now, and you’re the World Champion, so why not huh? . . . Well since you’re the champion Smackdown needs, I’m gonna treat y’like a champion and let you prove to the watchin’ world why you are the great champion you claim to be. . . Now you’re right that Shawn is pretty beat up, but let me tell y’somethin’ champ, he won’t be out forever. He’ll be back, you mark my words.

*Big Pop*

Tazz: Now a lot of people have called you a lot of things lately for the way you came to be World Champion, but I’m gonna tell you right now that I don’t have a problem with it whatsoever. Like you said, it’s all part of the rules, but this is the fun part. You decided when you were gonna cash it in, but once you did that, you had no more rights to make any match you wanted, as that’s my job, not yours.

*Pop*

Tazz: You might be the World Champion now Punk, but t’night I’m gonna put ya t’ the test. . . You said that you’re the champ this show needs, and by sayin’ that I guess you were insinuating Shawn Michaels wasn’t?

CM Punk: That’s exactly right.

Tazz: Well, you might come to regret that Punk as I have an announcement for ya. . . Shawn Michaels’ last act as World Champion was overcoming The Undertaker t’ retain the world title at Judgment Day, and I think we can all say that was quite impressive. . . So, champ, we’re gonna see t’night if you can match up t’ the credentials of The Heartbreak Kid himself, because tonight my man, you’re gonna be defendin’ that world title of yours against The Undertaker.

*Massive Pop*

Punk’s grin disappears completely.

CM Punk: You can’t be serious?

Tazz: You wanna be the great champion this show needs, well we’ll see how y’do t’night against an angry Undertaker. . . And after what happened earlier, it looks like you might be lucky t’ survive the night. I know I certainly wouldn’t wanna be in your shoes tonight champ, but at least we’re gonna find out just how much of a champion you are. Good luck.

“13” plays again to a massive pop as the angry World Champion stares up at Tazz, and it’s the General Manager now that has a smug grin on his face as he turns and walks to the back, leaving Punk spitting feathers in the ring.


***Video Promo***






{Commercial Break}


***Video Promo***




{Cut to Ringside}


***Match #3***

Christian w/Tyson Tomko vs Kid Kash​
ENDING: Christian walks over to Kid Kash and looks to pull him up to his knees, but Captain Charisma is slightly complacent in doing so, allowing Kash to level him with a right hand to the gut. Christian leans forward clutching his stomach as Kash then stands back up to nail his opponent with a European uppercut. He then stomps Christian in the gut, sending him down on to one knee, and Kash turns back in to the ropes, then runs back driving his knee in to the side of Christian’s head. The Notorious K.I.D drops down straight away as he looks to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . It’s a fairly comfortable kick out from Captain Charisma, but the blow to the head looks to have knocked him a bit groggy, and Kash looks to take advantage, standing right back up and unloading with a series of stomps to the chest and then one to the head. He then drags Christian towards the corner, and then springboards in to a MOONSAULT. . . . . Christian though gets his knees up, driving them in to the gut of Kid Kash, bringing a cheer from the fans. They both struggle back to their feet, but it’s Christian who seizes control of the match as he blocks a right hand and hammers away with a shot of his own before quickly hitting an INVERTED FACELOCK BACKBREAKER. . . . .

The fans think that could well be it as Christian looks to hook the leg and make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kick out from Kash, but Christian doesn’t look too surprised, and he makes an effort to get back up straight away. He drags Kash back up with him and lifts him in to a fireman’s carry position, then drops him down in to a GUT BUSTER. . . . . That must have hurt, and as Kash rolls around on the mat while holding his stomach, Christian just smiles as he looks in to the crowd. He walks over to Kash who has shifted towards the ropes, but Christian pulls him right back up and whips him in to the opposite set of ropes. Kash hits them but manages to reach out and grab hold of the top rope, angering Christian who runs in at him. Kash reacts well to lift his elbow up in to the side of Christian’s head, sending him staggering back in to the middle of the ring. Kash then looks to explode as Christian turns round with Kash then charging at him, but Christian counters with a SPEAR. . . . . A big pop meets that, but Christian’s grin has gone and he means business as he stands back up right away, dragging Kash up with him to plant him with the KILLSWITCH. . . . . The fans rise to their feet as Christian makes the cover as the ref counts the fall. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Christian by pinfall @ 5.22.

AFTERMATH: “If You Close Your Eyes” hits to a big pop as Christian stands up and gets his arm raised by the referee. Tomko then climbs up the steps to join him in the ring, but the music stops with Edge then appearing on the tron, sat in an undisclosed location, but it’s a television set you see for satellite links.

*Lots of Heat*

Edge: Real impressive comeback match there bro’, but it’s pretty obvious that’s the kind of effortless competition you’ve become used to. . . But let me tell you somethin’ C, when you step in the ring with me, you’ll quickly see the difference between the competition here and the playground you came from, but more importantly just the difference between me and you. . . I’ll tell you what though bro’, I’m not gonna spoil your party tonight. You go away and enjoy that sweet success of yours you’ve earned if you can even call it that, ‘cause I guarantee you’re not gonna have much more if I have anythin’ t’ do with it.

Christian stares up at the tron with the tron then switching back to show Christian and Tomko standing there looking a little surprised, but Christian quickly shrugs it off as his music plays again to a large cheer from the crowd.


***Video Promo***






{Commercial Break}


***Video Promo***




{Cut Backstage}​

Josh Matthews is standing by.

Josh Matthews: Please welcome my guest at this time, the United States Champion, Shelton Benjamin.

The camera zooms out to show a very serious Shelton Benjamin stood alongside Josh with the United States title draped over his left shoulder.

Josh Matthews: Later on tonight Shelton, you’ll be involved in a King of the Ring qualifying match, as will the man who beat you last week in non title action. . . Matt Sydal.

Shelton Benjamin: . . . Josh, let me stop you right there alright. I didn’t come here to talk about Matt Sydal and the fluke win he got over me last week. The fact is he got lucky and caught me off guard, and I promise you that won’t happen ever again. All that matters now is that I qualify for the King of the Ring tonight and keep the memory of last week behind me.

Josh Matthews: Okay. With that said, would it be fair to say that if you do qualify for the King of the Ring tonight and given that you’re the United States Champion and a former Intercontinental Champion, that you’d have to be one of the favourites to win the tournament?

Shelton Benjamin: I’d think that would be an extremely fair thing to say Josh. I have to admit I tuned in t’ watch Raw Monday night to check out the competition, and I heard JR an’ King gettin’ all excited about Rey Mysterio an’ Kofi Kingston, but it’s gonna take a lot more than those two to get me worried. . . By the end of the night, I won’t just have qualified for the King of the Ring, I’ll have it in the bag.

Shelton grins arrogantly at Josh before turning round and walking in to Christian & Tomko. A large roar is heard coming from inside the arena with Benjamin then looking totally unimpressed with Christian before walking past him and Tomko. Christian shakes his head and smirks.

Christian: What’s his problem?

Josh looks quite keen to grab Christian’s attention.

Josh Matthews: Christian, can I get a few comments about your match earlier and what Edge said afterward?

Christian smiles and walks up to Josh with Tomko standing by his side.

Christian: Comments huh Josh? I think I can find a few of ‘em for ya. . . See my big brother just proved yet again how much of a coward he is. He made it pretty clear last week that he’s not ready for a match with me, and tonight he tells me he can’t wait to beat me. . . Confused? . . . You betcha. . . The way I see it, it was his way of tryin’ to act all tough like he always does without me tellin’ him to his face he’s a coward like I did last week. . . I mean, we all know what he’s like. His mouth writes cheques his balls can’t cash. But at the end of the day Josh, it doesn’t matter to me how long I have to wait to beat the crap out of Adam, whether it’s a week, a month, a year. ‘cause when I do finally get my hands on ‘im, I’m gonna make sure he gets what’s bein’ comin’ to him for a long, long time.

Captain Charisma looks in to the camera with a rare serious look on his face, sending a message to Edge before turning to the side and walking out of the shot with Tomko.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match #4***

King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Matt Sydal vs Orlando Jordan​
ENDING: Jordan looks groggy as he stands back up with Sydal grabbing him by the arm straight away and trying for an irish whip. Jordan though manages to reverse it, and as Sydal comes back off the ropes, OJ lifts him up off his feet and plants him with a SPINEBUSTER. . . . . Sydal’s back was driven hard in to the mat, and Jordan thinks that could be it as he desperately hooks both of Sydal’s legs for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . A big cheer erupts as Sydal lifts his shoulder up just before the hand came down for the third time, leaving Jordan in absolute shock. He sits up and stares at the referee for a couple of seconds before the ref stands up, but Jordan follows and yells at the ref claiming that it was a three count, but he’s met with stubborn refusal by the referee as Sydal rolls on to his side behind them. Jordan sees he’s not getting anywhere, and as he turns round, he sees Sydal valiantly trying to stand back up. Jordan looks to halt that straight away by running over and taking him right back down to the mat with a RUNNING SWINGING BACKBREAKER (Orlando Magic). . . . . The nervous fans can only watch as Jordan once again looks to wrap the match up by going for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Sydal shows his resilience once again as he lifts his shoulder up to the utter frustration of his opponent. Jordan looks over at the referee for a second before carrying on with the match and dragging Sydal back up to his feet. He rather tamely whips him in to the corner and takes a second before running in at him, but Sydal fights back by stepping out of the corner with Jordan running in to the pads chest first.

Sydal then shifts behind Jordan rolls him up. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Jordan pushes his legs up and powers out with Sydal sent back slightly. Jordan stands back up and walks over to Sydal, but the fan favourite catches him off guard by ducking a right hand and following up with a FEINT ENZIGURI IN TO A HEAD SCISSORS TAKEDOWN. . . . . A big cheer breaks out in the stands as both men pick themselves back up, but it’s Sydal up first and he quickly connects with a snap mare, runs back in to the ropes and comes back to nail OJ with a sit down dropkick to the back. Jordan screams out in pain as Sydal hurries back up and then explodes with a STANDING MOONSAULT. . . . . The cheers continue as Sydal then goes for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Jordan kicks out, but Sydal rushes back up to his feet and urges Jordan to get back up too, and he does slowly. Sydal turns to run the ropes, but as he comes back, Jordan catches him thanks to a failed cross body attempt. Jordan then lifts him on to his shoulder, but Sydal wriggles down and pushes Jordan in to the corner pads once more, and as he turns round, Sydal grabs him around the upper body and plants him with the CYCLORAMA (Belly to belly moonsault slam). . . . . That brings a giant roar from the crowd as Sydal rushes back up once again and races in to the corner with Jordan lying close by. The high flier then climbs the turnbuckles to stand on the top rope, then leaps off to connect with the SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . The fans all stand up and count along with the referee as Sydal hooks Jordan’s leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Matt Sydal by pinfall @ 5.18.

AFTERMATH: “Axeman” hits to a big pop as Sydal stands back up with a big smile on his face to get his arm raised by the referee. He walks in to the corner and climbs up to the second rope to celebrate with the crowd.


{Cut Backstage}​

Johnny Jeter is watching a monitor in the back and doesn’t look to be too happy at all seeing Matt Sydal win another big match.

Johnny Jeter: Unbelievable.

At that moment, the Cruiserweight Champion, Michael Shane walks past in casual clothes and stops after hearing Jeter speak. He too looks at the monitor and smiles.

Michael Shane: He’s gonna be a star one day, but don’t feel too bad man, you can’t win ‘em all.

Jeter isn’t impressed as the cool Shane carries on walking up the hall.

Johnny Jeter: Yeah, and I hope your cousin isn’t out too long jackass.

Shane stops dead in the background and turns round.

Michael Shane: You say somethin’?

Johnny Jeter: No nothin’. You wanna get your hearin’ checked champ.

Michael Shane: Whatever.

Shane doesn’t look impressed either as he turns back round and carries on walking up the hall with Jeter clearly not happy either.


***Video Promo***




{Commercial Break}


***Match #5***

Matt Hardy & Elijah Burke w/Layla vs The Masters of the Mat​
ENDING: The UK Pack have been watching on closely from the announce table and speaking of their hatred for Chris Masters & Charlie Haas. The Masters of the Mat were surprised and angered to see them sitting there, but they’ve managed to take control of the match with their usual cheap tactics, double teaming behind the referee’s back. With Matt struggling, Haas pulls him back up and nails him with a European uppercut, dazing Matt further and quickly following up with an inverted atomic drop and a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK SUPLEX. . . . . The machine like Haas doesn’t waste any time in hooking the leg and going for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Hardy kicks out but looks in some pain as Haas lets go and tries to sit up. Haas picks himself back up while Hardy struggles to sit up, and with The Masterpiece calling for the tag, Haas walks in to his corner and makes the tag to his partner. Masters looks very confident as he calmly enters the ring while the fans boo his entry with Matt slowly but surely getting up on to one knee. Masters walks over to him and kicks him in the chest straight away, putting Matt’s comeback on hold. He then pulls Matt up and whips him in to the ropes, then nails him with a DOUBLE AXE HANDLE TO THE CHEST. . . . . Matt drops back down to the canvas, but he’s not there for long as Masters bends down and pulls him back up, lifting him up off his feet and applying a BEAR HUG. . . . .

Burke & Layla try and get the fans to encourage Hardy, and they do just that as Masters squeezes the life out of Matt, but Hardy responds to the encouragement of the fans, lifting his arm up in the air and trying to fight the hold with all he has. He then manages to hit Masters with a couple of blows to the side of the head, and it’s enough to force Masters to relinquish his grip, dropping Matt back down to his feet. Hardy then fires at Masters with a couple of shots to the head, then turns back to run the ropes, but as he comes back, Masters drives his boot right down Matt’s throat, halting the comeback. Masters just grins in to the disappointed crowd, and he shifts behind Matt as he tries to stand up, stalking him for THE MASTERLOCK. . . . . The fans try to warn Matt, but he looks to be very dazed as he tries to stand back up looking very unsteady. As he manages to stand up, Masters grabs him by the arms straight away, but to The Masterpiece’s surprise, Matt shifts behind him. And as Masters turns round, Matt kicks him in the gut and plants him with the SIDE EFFECT. . . . . That brings a huge pop from the crowd and encouragement from both Layla & Burke to make the tag. Both men crawl across the ring looking to tag their partners, and almost at the same time, Matt & Masters reach up to make the tags. Burke & Haas rush in to the ring and charge at each other, but Burke ducks under a clothesline from Haas and quickly sends him falling back with a SIDE SUPLEX. . . . .

Haas lands on his back, but he tries to fight through the pain and picks himself right back up. Burke is ready for him and turns back to run the ropes, runs back and sends him right back down with a FLYING SHOULDER TACKLE. . . . . The crowd cheer for Burke as he urges Haas back up, and as the mat technician returns to his feet, he runs right at Burke and in to a LIFTING SPINNING SIT DOWN SPINEBUSTER. . . . . Burke holds on for the cover as the ref frantically rushes over to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Somehow Haas just lifts his shoulder up to prevent the defeat. Burke can’t believe it, but he lets it go as he stands back up and sees Masters doing the same on the apron. He runs right at him and knocks him down to the floor by the announce table with a forearm shot. Masters doesn’t land too badly and looks to be getting back up very quickly as Burke turns the attention back to the squirming Haas. He walks over and pulls him up, setting him up for THE ELIJAH EXPERIENCE. . . . . Masters is back up on the outside and spots the danger, but as he walks back to the apron, Harry Smith stands up from the announce table and goes right after Masters, grabbing him by the arm to stop him getting in the ring. Burke sees it and lets go of Haas with Masters shoving Smith, but the Brit doesn’t appear to be in a good mood and drills him with a right hand, knocking Masters to the floor. The ref also sees it and calls for the bell straight away, awarding the match to The Masters of the Mat by disqualification.


WINNERS: The Masters of the Mat by DQ @ 7.49.

AFTERMATH: Burke looks quite annoyed by the decision as Masters stands back up and shoves Smith once more. Smith then fires again with a right hand as Masters fights back and a fist fight ensues, but Burchill takes his headset off and rushes to join the fun in hammering away at Masters. They quickly get him down to his knees before pulling him up and tossing him in to the steel steps to a pop from the crowd. They then look down with no real emotion on their faces while Matt and Layla join Burke in the ring and question the referee. The UK Pack then grab their tag title belts up off the announce table and walk away with Haas rolling to the outside to check on his partner.


***Video Promo***






{Commercial Break}​

Beth Phoenix is in the hallway talking with a female production worker.

?: There you are.

We then see the camera zoom out and show a not so happy Mia Rain walking up to Beth.

Worker: I’ll leave you two to it.

Mia Rain: Good idea.

Beth Phoenix: What can I do for you Maria?

Mia Rain: It’s Mia as you well know.

Beth Phoenix: Sorry Mia, I’m just one of those people who has trouble with names, but you already know about that don’t you?

Mia sn-iggers and shakes her head slightly.

Mia Rain: You’re not sorry at all, just like you’re not sorry for the stunt you pulled last week. . .

Beth Phoenix: . . . Oh you mean when I came to your rescue. . .

Mia Rain: . . . That’s not what you did. You only did that to try and prove a point, but I know what your problem is. You’re worried that your role as the most dominant diva on Smackdown is under threat, and let me tell you something Beth. . . You’re right to be worried. . . If you get in my way again, you’ll find you’ve got more than a match on your hands.

Beth Phoenix: On the contrary Mia, I welcome the challenge. That’s why I helped you out last week. You can deny it all you want, but we both know what would’ve happened had I not got involved last week. . . See before you came here, I took all three of those divas apart all by myself. It’s you that needs to worry about having a match on their hands, not me. . . You might think I’m scared of you Mia, but I’m not, not one bit.

The two women stare at each other for a couple of seconds before The Glamazon calmly turns away and walks off down the hall, leaving Rain staring right at her in the process.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match #6***

King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Tommy Dreamer vs Shelton Benjamin​
ENDING: Shelton watches on as Dreamer once again rises to his feet, and the United States Champion looks to keep his momentum going by kicking Dreamer in the gut and setting him up for a suplex. As he tries to lift the ECW original in to the air, Dreamer blocks it with his foot and counters with a suplex of his own. That brings a cheer from the crowd as both men look to pick themselves up right away. They both look a little worse for wear as Dreamer nails Shelton with a hard right hand, and then another, putting Benjamin on the back foot. He then grabs The Gold Standard by his arm and whips him in to the ropes, and he sends Shelton flying overhead as he comes back with a back body drop. Benjamin sells the bump well as he sits up holding his back and grimacing before slowly standing back up. Dreamer is ready and waiting for him too as he grabs him from behind and plants him with a REVERSE DDT. . . . . That sets off a pop inside the arena as Dreamer turns Shelton off and hooks the leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Shelton lifts his shoulder up off the mat and immediately disappoints the fans with sighs coming from the stands. Dreamer sits back up and shrugs off his own disappointment to keep on going. He stands back up and drags Shelton in to the corner, setting him up in the tree of woe position. The Gold Standard is in danger as the Innovator of Violence backtracks across the ring before charging back and nailing the United States Champion with a low dropkick to the upper body.

The fans liked that, and they show it with cheers as Shelton falls down on to his chest with Dreamer then dragging him away from the ropes and locking in a BOSTON CRAB. . . . . The pain is written all over Benjamin’s face, as is the determination on Dreamer’s. Shelton starts to fight the hold and despite Dreamer holding on tight, The Gold Standard manages to drag himself slowly across the mat, and soon enough he gets closer and closer to the ropes. It’s clear it’s a push for him, but Shelton fights for dear life and reaches out to grab the bottom rope and force Dreamer to break the hold. The fans don’t like it but he has no choice. He lets go but tries to pull Shelton away from the ropes, but Benjamin turns over and kicks Dreamer off of him, sending him back down to the mat. Dreamer’s not down for long, but Shelton lifts himself up using the ropes and kicks him one more time in the stomach before connecting with the DRAGON WHIP. . . . . Shelton has fought his way back in to the match, and as both men pick themselves back up, Shelton ducks a right hand and explodes with a ROUNDHOUSE KICK. . . . . Dreamer’s feet just collapse from under him as Benjamin follows him down to the mat to make the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Dreamer stuns everyone by getting his shoulder up, and no one is one more surprised than Benjamin as he sits up and stares at the referee, but it doesn’t change anything.

With the crowd still cheering as Dreamer starts to sit up, The Gold Standard comes to life too, standing up and pulling Dreamer up from his knees. He tries for an irish whip but it’s reversed by Dreamer, and as Shelton comes back off the ropes, Dreamer tries to lift him overhead, but Benjamin counters with a JUMPING DDT. . . . . Dreamer just got drilled and it should be all over, and Shelton quickly shifts round to go for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! The fans go crazy as Dreamer kicks out once again, and Shelton is even more stunned this time as he sits up. He looks absolutely stunned, but anger and frustration quickly set in as he stands up and walks in to the corner, crossing both his arms to signal the end. Dreamer is slow picking himself up, but as he stands up and turns round, the United States Champion charges at him for the PAY DIRT. . . . . But Dreamer ducks his head with Shelton running through. He puts the brakes on by the ropes, but as he turns round, Dreamer kicks him in the gut and sets him up for the DREAMER DDT. . . . . Shelton reaches to the side and holds on to the top rope, blocking Dreamer hitting his finisher. The ECW original lets go and then swings at Shelton, but Benjamin ducks underneath, and as Tommy turns back round, Benjamin explodes with the T-BONE SUPLEX. . . . . The desperate Benjamin readjusts his position and hooks both legs for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Shelton Benjamin by pinfall @ 5.38.

AFTERMATH: “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Me” plays as the crowd boo the United States Champion while he stands back up. The referee collects his title belt and passes it to him before raising his arm in victory. Shelton grins in to the crowd before lifting the gold up in to the air to more heat from the crowd.


***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 very soon.





{Cut to Ringside}

“This Fire Burns” blasts out for the second time tonight, and to a ton of heat once again as 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 “Rest In Peace” 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.

We then hear a cheer break out, and unbeknown to Punk, MVP jumps the barricade at ringside and slips in to the ring. Punk looks curious as to why the fans are cheering, and as he turns round, he sees MVP. The previous holder of the Money in the Bank contract quickly kicks him in the gut and plants him with the Playmaker to a huge roar from the sell out crowd. MVP then walks over to the ropes and asks for a microphone.

MVP: Y’know Punk I got somethin’ to tell all these people too, just like you did earlier, an’ I got a feelin’ you ain’t gonna like it. . . Y’might ‘ave got away wit’ it tonight, but you ain’t gonna be so lucky at the King of the Ring. . . See I just came from speakin’ wit’ Tazz, an’ y’might ‘ave taken, or as I like to put it. . . stole the Money in the Bank contract from me at Judgment Day, but in just over a week, it’s gonna be an’ you one on one at the King of the Ring for that World Heavyweight Championship of yours.

*Big Pop*

MVP: Y’think you’re this big shot all of a sudden, but guess what Punk? I’m gonna take from you what you took from me, an’ you ain’t gonna be the top dog on Smackdown for all that long, ‘cause I’m gonna beat your ass an’ take the title all at the same time. You think ‘bout that champ.

“I’m Comin’” hits to a big pop from the crowd as MVP drops the microphone and picks up the world title belt. He looks at it for several seconds before dropping it on the motionless CM Punk and leaving the ring as Smackdown comes to a close.


{End of Show}


QUICK RESULTS

Jack Swagger df. Super Crazy
Chavo Guerrero df. Ron Killings
Christian df. Kid Kash
Matt Sydal df. Orlando Jordan
The Masters of the Mat df. Matt Hardy & Elijah Burke
Shelton Benjamin df. Tommy Dreamer

CONFIRMED FOR THE KING OF THE RING



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



 
#1,182 ·
SMACKDOWN REVIEW
BY SC2004 >>>


>>> No messing about, not even commentary. I think you did this on RAW, maybe I’m wrong. Anyway, there’s nothing wrong with cutting straight to the point. Jericho came across as the ultimate hypocrite here , claiming to respect the Undertaker and telling everyone that he does not mean to insult him, yet he spends the entire promo ripping Taker apart, claiming his run is over and that he’s afraid of his fate and that he should retire. It reminded me of how Jericho talked about HBK IRL, though there were differences. Taker again calm to the ring and failed to respond, however I didn’t hate it this time as you made him appear indecisive, as if he didn’t know what to say. The choke slam was needed as it sends a non verbal message to Jericho. What I ask when reading a Taker/HBK, Taker/Jericho feud at a time when we are nowhere near Mania, or SS even, is why give them away back to back on regular events?

>>> I’m a big Swagger fan and although you are not Jesus pushing him and rightfully so, his push is evident for all to see. Yes a convincing win over Super Crazy is nothing to write home about, but he did convincingly in under five minutes. I’d like him to get more TV time going forward in order to develop his character more. I’m guessing your going to have him squash a few more guys and test the waters before throwing him into a proper feud. Makes sense.

>>>On a personal note, I hate Ron Killings. Ugh! I guess this promo had two purposes. Place importance on the KOTR tournament and also take the Chavo, Killings feud up a notch. You wrote Killings very well. The detail in the dialogue was great. Still hate the bastard though! LOL.

>>> I remember coming down on your for making Tazz the general manager, but man, he’s really grown on me. He’s funny, cutting and serious all at once and you write him so very well. The masters of the mat are turning into a great heel team and I loved their snide remark about how unfortunate it was for Burchill to get attacked again, that was funny. Interesting to see who their opponents will be.

>>> Jesus Christ, you’ve really take a step back this week. What I mean by that is that so far, the promos have been very short and the matches very long. This was a monster for what was just a regular KOTR qualifier. I remember you mentioning something about long matches on this show. The finish seemed to big for the match. The referee going down, the chair shot and the dirty finish. It seemed like a finish you’d use for a title match or a bigger match on a PPV card. It did I guess keep Killings strong and will undoubtedly further this feud, so in that regard, it worked.

>>> CM Punk is probably my favourite character on SmackDown at the moment, both in this thread and IRL. He plays it straight and manages to take digs as it does, calling HBK “beat up” and his victory last week “easy.” Punk is different to Jericho in that he is more laid back, less emotional and hypocritical, but he does use similar tactics to gain heat. Tazz seems to use the same ploy every week, in fact he already used it tonight when he put the masters of the mat in a match. He seems to always stand up to the hell and demand they “prove themselves” in a match. He does it a little too often. Punk V Taker is rather huge and in hindsight maybe this promo should of went on first.

>>> You booked Christian’s match up in an identical fashion to that of Swaggers. Fast, impressive, dominant victories over lower card guys. If you are going to go with the Edge/Christian feud, though I’d love a swerve, then he needs to start beat established mid card guys. He’s been off TV for a long time and he needs to make a bigger impact than the one he would of made tonight by beating Kash. Edge eluded to the point I just made in his short address. I wonder what he has planned for Christian?

>>> Shelton Benjamin, as cocky as ever, even after his defeat last week. I would have had him come across more defensive, but calling Sydal’s win a fluke was in character. I‘m hoping to see more from these two. Christian came across as being frustrated by Edge’s indecision, which may have been the point. Edge playing head games is something which works well and is very entertaining.

>>> God your killing me with these long matches, revenge for all the long (but amazing hehe) promos you had to read on my show. Orlando Jordon is not someone I remember all that well from his time in the WWE, though I do recall him being a United States champion. None the less going into the match, Bourne had to be the favourite, given the fact you had him go over Benjamin last week. I had to Google one of the moves in this match as I had no idea what it was. At least you explained CYCLORAMA for me. LOL.

>>> I would of called the Shane, Jeter backstage promo a filler segment but I think it’s meant to be the start of something bigger. I’m a big fan of building feuds and angles slowly and with subtly. Obviously it can’t always be done this way, but when it is and done right it works a treat.

>>> I loved the unexpected finish here, came out of nowhere and worked a treat. With Burchill out of the way, I’m wondering whether you’ll have DH Smith go after Masters of the mat alone and elevate him in doing so? In all likely hood, Burchil should be back on TV next week, even if it is just to cut a promo. This whole match was about Masters of the mat and although Burke and Hardy looked great, they seemed insignificant, afterthoughts even. That’s not a knock on you, it makes sense given the UK Pack, Masters of the mat feud which has been so solid of late.

>>> I was wondering where the hell the divas were tonight and I was going to come down on you for not using Beth and Mia, but thankfully you put together this clever backstage segment. They may have been an afterthought on this weeks show, but going forward I’m confident that you’ll allow both women to shine and make a go a decent feud here.

>>> WFT, match six and we still haven’t had the main event? This really is a wrestling show. LOL. Again the match was very long, after all you stated it was just a 5 minute match up. The problem with this was not that it was bad, far from it, it was the fact that the outcome was so predictable given Dreamer as Benjamin’s opponent and Sydal advancing earlier in the night. It’s refreshing to see another clean finish, I make this one number four for the night. The tournament really is shaping up and I hope you create some rivalry between the participants across both brands before the PPV takes place.

>>> I knew it, there was no way in hell you were going to give away Punk V Taker. Great booking. The Jericho attack was suitably vicious and the surprise appearance of MVP was just that, a surprise. MVP V CM Punk at the KOTR, talk about a refreshing change at the top. I see no point in CM Punk dropping the bet so soon after winning it and logic would lead me to believe that he will hold the title up until SummerSlam, where HBK should return and challenge him for the belt.

OVERALL: It was heavy on wrestling, which is liked by some and not so much by others. I’m more of a promo guy, but I still liked the show a lot. There wasn’t a mistake to be found booking wise. The Jericho.Taker feud was taken to the next level. You booked the logical title match in MVP/Punk. Benjamin/Sydal, Shane/Jeter, Chavo/Killings all have begun to take shape. The UK Pack/Master of the Mat feud is one of the best tag feuds in BTB ATM. Beth/Rain shows great promise. All in all great booking, but just for me, up the promos and entertainment factor next week please. LOL

HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY :hb
 
#1,184 ·


.com


>SMACKDOWN<
>News<


Last night on Smackdown, we saw MVP give CM Punk something to think about, taking him by surprise and giving him a taste of the Playmaker that he might fall to once again at the King of the Ring. MVP then announced that he would be the one challenging Punk for the world title in just over a week’s time.

Punk took the Money in the Bank contract from MVP in a fatal fourway at Judgment Day without beating MVP, but he will have to now that the World Championship is on the line.



>Qualifiers Are Complete!<
The King of the Ring tournament line up was complete last night as Chavo Guerrero, Matt Sydal & Shelton Benjamin, the United States Champion joined Elijah Burke in representing Smackdown in the eight man elimination tournament that will take place a week on Sunday, live from The Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

Raw’s representatives will be the Intercontinental Champion, Kofi Kingston along with Rey Mysterio, Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella. We have also been advised that the Quarter Final line up will only be announced on the night itself.



____________________________________​

No messing about, not even commentary. I think you did this on RAW, maybe I’m wrong. Anyway, there’s nothing wrong with cutting straight to the point.
I very rarely use commentary on TV’s unless I think it’s absolutely essential. Saying that, I know I’ve included it for the Smackdown I’m currently writing. It’s a great tool to use, I’m not doubting that, but I’ll only use it when I feel I need to get a message across that isn’t easy to interpret from what’s happened.

Whoa, The Undertaker and Punk for the title tonight? Quite random, and I don't know why he's got a title shot really.
I thought i explained it reasonably well with the relation to Michaels' victory over Taker at Judgment Day and Punk's impression of his title reign. But the main reason was to set up the Jericho attack and progress their feud as you saw later on.

You put a lot of focus on the fact that he's now focussing on the King of the Ring rather than Matt Sydal, so why did Sydal beat him last week then? Seems pointless unless they are getting in a feud, as Sydal could've easily beaten someone else and it doesn't do much for Shelton unless it's to start a feud. I hope we see them cross paths later for that reason.
Slowly, slowly, catchy monkey and all that. The King of the Ring is just over a week away, and you'll have to wait and see. I don't think you'll be disappointed though.

HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY :hb
Thanks to both of you (My loyal fan boys. The Spirit Squad costumes are in the post btw), but less of the 25 please Sean, I feel old enough as it is. At least you didn’t get me some beer like one of my mates, :no:. I should have gone on all CM Punk on him.


____________________________________​
 
#1,185 ·
CM Punk/MVP should be a good main event, good to see your keeping Judgment Day fresh in everyone's mind also.

King of the Ring is looking very nice, although I really dislike Santino marella being in it. I just can't take the guys seriously.

Things are looking decent enough, although I wouldn't exactly say great. Maybe it's just me, but I feel besides one or two feuds that this thread is in a bit of a rut at the moment, I will be reading with interest to see if you can work yourself out of it.
 
#1,186 ·



FCW RESULTS (7th June)



Dusty Rhodes started the show in the ring and talked about how angry he was with The Empire again after they retained the FCW Tag Team titles last week thanks to Hade Vansen helping Drew McIntyre & Stu Sanders at the end of the Lumberjack match. He said he was going to settle it once and for all tonight, making a double jeopardy match with TJ Wilson taking on McIntyre with everyone barred from ringside, and that if Wilson won, he and Teddy Hart would get a title shot under the same conditions somewhere down the road. However, if Wilson lost, he and Hart would never get a shot at the titles as long as The Empire were champions.

Commercial Break

FCW Television Championship: CJ Red (c) defeated “The Natural” Nic Nemeth to retain the gold. CJ won the match after dodging a jumping russian leg sweep and rolling Nemeth up for the three count. Nemeth was furious at the bell as Red then slipped out of the ring to get his title passed to him by the referee.

Commercial Break

Tyler Reks defeated Jay Bradley on his debut in FCW, winning thanks to a springboard moonsault. The crowd were in to him after cutting short a promo from Bradley beforehand, who vowed to show them he wasn’t a joke and demanded respect before Reks interrupted him.

Joe Hennig & James Reiher, the FCW Heavyweight Champion were in the office with Dusty Rhodes, who told them their title match will be in two weeks and that they should shake on it with no funny business before their very important match. Reiher made out he was offended by the accusation, but Hennig told him he was right to be worried and brought up the fact he beat Reiher clean last week. He then told Reiher to enjoy his time left with the belt, because it’s not going to be long before he takes it from him.

Commercial Break

Festus beat Ryback via DQ after interference from Jesse. Ryback looked angry and went for Jesse, only for Festus to save his partner, clotheslining Ryback to the outside. Ryback looked very angry as he got up on the outside with Jesse & Festus staring down at him.

Commercial Break

Amber O’Neal was beaten by Nikki Roxx following a Tornado DDT. O’Neal was not happy as she came round to see Roxx celebrating, but Roucka stormed the ring and attacked Roxx from behind, pulling her off the second rope and hitting the Roucka Bottom. O’Neal sat up and stared at Roucka with an uneasy exchange of looks going on between them.

Joe Hennig was leaving the arena when James Reiher jumped from behind, using his FCW Heavyweight Championship belt to hit him in the back of the head. Reiher then stomped all over Hennig and kneeled down alongside him, shoving the belt in Hennig’s face and saying he wasn’t going to lose it to him or anyone.

Commercial Break

Double Jeopardy: TJ Wilson beat Drew McIntyre to earn himself and Teddy Hart a shot at the tag team titles with everyone banned from ringside. Wilson got the win after the Code Blue, a springboard front flip neckbreaker. Afterwards, Stu Sanders & Hade Vansen raced down to the ring with Katie Lea following behind, but Wilson slipped out of the ring and ran to safety with Hart coming out and congratulating in front of the angry Empire members to end the show.


 
#1,187 ·
>Time for a slight makeover tbh.<


RAW Preview – Monday 9th June 2008
Live From the Pensacola Civic Center
Pensacola, Florida





JEFF WINS THE QUEST THANKS TO RANDY ORTON?
Last Monday night saw the final of the Quest to be Champion tournament with Jeff Hardy taking on Mr. Kennedy for a WWE Championship at the King of the Ring. Both men gave it their all, but it was Jeff Hardy who emerged victorious thanks to Randy Orton. The Legend Killer had earlier let Eric Bischoff know that he wouldn’t be there due to a family emergency, setting up his shock appearance perfectly, allowing him to RKO his bitter nemesis and send Jeff on his way to a match with “The Big Red Machine” Kane in less than a week’s time. Jeff was greeted by Kane’s presence afterwards, and the monster quickly reminded his challenger what lies in store for him at the King of the Ring after a hellacious chokeslam.

Does Jeff regret his victory now, and just how will Kennedy react to Orton’s elaborate plan? Make sure you tune in to Raw this week live from the Pensacola Civic Center in Pensacola, Florida to find out just what goes down!

BATISTA SORRY AND BISCHOFF SUSPENDS THE CORPORATION​
Two weeks back, Triple H & Ric Flair fell foul to the numbers game when The Corporation confronted them in the parking lot, and questions were then raised in regard to Batista’s whereabouts. The Game & The Nature Boy failed in their attempts to contact The Animal that night, but last Monday night saw the third Evolution member to explain himself. According to Batista, his daughter was ill at the weekend and he had to take her to the emergency room on the Monday night, confirming the reason as to why he wasn’t there to come to his friend’s rescue. The Corporation revelled in Batista’s anguish with JBL telling him the guilt that he must live with is more than satisfying to them. However, they didn’t count on Eric Bischoff making an appearance, and let alone suspending them until the King of the Ring is out of the way in two weeks.

JBL & The Big Show certainly weren’t impressed, along with the ever sour faced Russian hitman, Vladimir Kozlov. It looks like Raw could be a quiet place when it rolls in to Pensacola this week. However, the last time the General Manager barred them for the arena, all hell broke loose. Surely The Corporation have learnt their lesson?

CODY’S LAST CHANCE​
Cody Rhodes was understandably upset for the first time last week, given he actually had reason to be for a change. Just seven days earlier, he was on the verge of becoming the Intercontinental Champion when his ex-girlfriend, Kelly Kelly took him and everyone by surprise as she returned to pay Cody back in the worst possible manner imaginable to the title hopeful. Eric Bischoff was called in to action once more, and he even made Cody smile for a while upon announcing a Steel Cage match between Rhodes and Kofi Kingston for the Intercontinental Championship at Vengeance. However, Bischoff made it perfectly clear to Cody that this would be his last chance at Kofi as long the Jamaican Sensation is champion.

Will Cody be able to take that chance? After tasting defeat to Rey Mysterio last week in a King of the Ring qualifier, he can only sit back and watch Kofi in action. Knowing Cody, it’s hardly going to be that easy is it?

RAW HOPEFULS TO COLLIDE​
As well as Kofi Kingston & Rey Mysterio qualifying for the King of the Ring last Monday night, Santino Marella joined them and Kenny Dykstra to complete Raw’s competitors in the eight man tournament for this Sunday. They will all be in action this Monday when Kofi & Rey team up to take on Dykstra & Marella.

Who will do the most to prove themselves to be a serious contender for the crown at stake for one of them Sunday night at the King of the Ring?

FINLAY GETS AN APOLOGY FROM DIBIASE. . . DIBIASE SR THAT IS​
We saw Ted DiBiase Jr show his true colours two weeks ago on Raw when he attacked Finlay, and then Hornswoggle after a Finlay victory. DiBiase didn’t hold back, and instead of facing up to the consequences last week, Finlay was greeted by The Million Dollar Man, the father of his opponent at the King of the Ring this weekend when the Million Dollar Championship is on the line. DiBiase Sr explained that he had spoken to his son and that he was apologising on his behalf, but the tough talking Irishman made sure that the cocky youngster would get a message, telling his father to pass it on to him that there will be no place to hide at the King of the Ring.

Will the Million Dollar Champion be hiding away again this week, or will he man up? Tune in to find out.

TWICE THE THREAT FOR VICTORIA​
Two of Victoria’s biggest threats to her WWE Women’s Championship went at it last week to compete for a shot at the title. Melina & Natalya Neidhart have had their problems for a while now, and they looked to settle them in the ring last week with Victoria watching from ringside, only for nothing to be settled at all. During the match, the referee was knocked out, leading to another referee coming out to officiate and count a fall that saw Natalya cover Melina with a german suplex. However, the original referee had come to and counted Neidhart’s shoulders too. Everyone was confused until William Regal, Raw’s Executive Assistant cleared things up by making a triple threat match for the title at Vengeance.

Victoria’s odds of holding on to her title have been slashed, but we have learnt that she will be competing against one of her opponents at Vengeance, Natalya Neidhart this week on Raw with a special twist. Melina will be the special guest referee. Just what can we expect when all three women are in the ring at the same time? There’s an easy answer. Trouble!

FORMER CHAMPS TO GO AT IT​
No one would have thought two months back that the World Tag Team Champions at the time, Paul London & Brian Kendrick would be facing each other one on one, but that’s where we’re at now following Kendrick’s decision to stab his partner in the back last month. After several weeks of tension between them, the decision has been made to put them together in the ring this week to sort out their problems.

Will that be the case? Make sure you catch Raw this week to find out.

TENSION GROWING BETWEEN BISCHOFF AND HIS ASSISTANT​
We have seen tension brewing recently between Eric Bischoff and his assistant, William Regal, but last week it reached boiling point with the General Manager throwing his Executive Assistant out of his office and in to a match with an angry Finlay. Bischoff was livid that Regal made the Women’s Championship match at Vengeance without consulting him on the back of another decision without asking him first. However, when it came to the crunch for Regal, he walked away from his match with Finlay before it could start. He was then caught sulking outside the arena by The Corporation after they were shown the door, and the four of them went off to discuss their mutual contempt for Bischoff.

Just what we can expect when Regal strolls in to Pensacola this Monday night?

PLUS​
John Morrison & The Miz continued where they left off the week before in making sure people know tag team wrestling consists of two men to a team, and not three following The Colon’s victory over Cryme Time the week before with Eric Perez joining them in a handicap match. Shad & JTG stumbled across the World Tag Team Champions’ discussion with Candice Michelle, but they weren’t the only ones, unfortunately for them as The Colons & Perez attacked them to send a warning right to Morrison & The Miz.

Word has it the champs are looking to settle the matter this coming week, but what do they have in mind? There’s only one way to find out, and that’s to tune in to Raw live from the Pensacola Civic Center this Monday night, live on the USA Network!


CONFIRMED FOR RAW THIS WEEK

King of the Ring Contenders Match
Rey Mysterio & Kofi Kingston vs Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella

Non Title Match
Special Guest Referee - Melina
Victoria vs Natalya Neidhart

Plus

Paul London vs Brian Kendrick​


 
#1,189 · (Edited)
>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.<


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



 
#1,191 ·
D-K-L's Raw Review

Starting off with Kennedy and Orton this week then, would've liked some promo time for Jeff and Kane on the last Raw before KOTR, but I guess you're saving that for later. It was a very well written promo as usual, Orton was brilliant and the second part of his promo was the best, loved the way he talked himself up and the line about how the title comes looking for him was great. Kennedy wasn't bad either and got a nice insult in, the yelling of his name doesn't really fit with the situation, but he seems to do it all the time anyway. Bischoff coming out was expected as he normally does come out, it's a useful way of settling an issue but maybe you should mix it up a little more and leave a promo with a big line from someone, although to be fair it was needed to set up the match and you didn't do it on Smackdown. Jeff Hardy asking for a match with Orton is a good booking decision considering he's a top babyface yet he took advantage of the situation last week, but the No Holds Barred stip has me puzzled. I realise he's brave and everything and will want to appear like he didn't like the help from Orton, but why would he ask for that stip, especially just six nights away from a match with Kane for the title? A way to allow Kane to interfere perhaps? Anyway some good matches announced here and a very solid promo.

Wow I'm surprised that you had Kane beat Kennedy clean here, expected a screwy finish somehow. But i've been asking for a good win for Kane so I can't really complain. It's good for Kane to get a much needed victory as he heads into King of the Ring, makes him look impressive and stacks the odds against Hardy once again. Kennedy seems to be getting somewhat of a push though which is why it surprised me, and after losing last week he reacted badly and kinda needed a win to get him back on track, which he of course didn't get. Good match though.

Very interesting situation this is with Regal. I question how easy they made up again though considering how angry they both were last week, and it was slighlty odd that there was no mention of the fact that Regal just walked out of the match that Bischoff put him in, which you'd think would make Eric angry. I love this storyline though as I can't wait to find out how this is going to pan out with The Corporation involved.

Just like Kane this is a win which Victoria needed imo. Melina as Special Ref made it a little more intresting too, and with the usual clash with the ref it meant that Natalya wasn't beaten totally clean which is good for her. This three way feud has been built up well so far.

Solid interview with Jeff Hardy, got over the point that he feels he didn't earn the shot well. Very honest and quite simple as usual, yet some good hype for the two matches. Kendrick coming in at the end works well, didn't say much but his attitude kind of established him as the arrogant heel which is good. I've been looking forward to their match for ages, especially tonight with the length of the matches, although it's not good if you have a PPV match in mind in the future as I'm one for saving it for the PPV as you know.

I don't recall that many out-of-arena promos in this thread so this was a nice change. This was a very interesting read and was written very well no doubt about it. It was a little odd how Batista managed to turn it around on Triple H and make him do the aplogising when really it's Triple H who I expected to be getting angry, but with Triple H coming into his home it worked well. You made Batista appear very touchy and there is clear tension between them, it seems it's setting up a feud between them which I didn't expect you to do. You could say that Batista's anger was a bit over the top considering they're meant to be friends, and he only asked one question, but the idea that he was grilling his daughter kinda allows for it. There were some great parts in this also, like the subtle line from Triple H about Batista always being there when he's needed, the maid and daughter spying on them for no real reason lol, and Batista's frustration was written so well.

Goldust? Really? I'm not a fan myself but he's not that bad I guess, not great for Miz to lose but it's nice progression of the feud by having the distraction cost him. The promo before the match was very good as well, all of them were nicely in character, but Miz and Morrison have mentioned the "two men in a tag team, not three" line too much to be honest, especially considering it was a six-man tag in the first place if I remember rightly. The Colons' involvement again makes it even more interesting and unpredictable, looks like it might just be a three-way which would make sense with two top heel teams.

Liked the divas segment, was a nice little confrontation. The match next week should be good, but Natalya will no doubt get involved which makes me wonder how it'll pan out. I can see a title change now, both Natalya and Melina have been good characters in this BTB. Also, I hope you don't have Melina turn if she continues feuding with Natalya, she's so much better as a bitchy heel.

The match between London and Kendrick was great, I think I expected a Kendrick victory, but I liked the result as it means there's still a lot to be decided between the two which is good. Although the finish is used too often as I can remember with Cena, Umaga and countless others it was a good way to leave things undecided and hopefully lead to a PPV match at a later date. I liked London losing his temper, he could play a sort of mad man character well and you're doing it differently than I expected by having London stand up for himself well, which i like. Looking forward to this progressing.

Once again you wrote this next segment really well. Kedrick overeatcing and acting all cocky helps to develop his personality, but the big argument was great. Funny that Regal just forgot everything he said, but it was also funny that Regal talked about Bischoff swanning off everywhere, which Bischoff did again at the end of this. The line at the end from Regal was great and as I said, I'm looking forward to what they do.

Solid tag match and the title itself hypes the King of the Ring some more. Some good action again and nice finish with Rey sending Doane out of the ring, saves him from taking the pin which I like. I reckon a couple of them have a decent chance Sunday as well.

Haha at Finlay actually calling Hornswoggle a leprechaun. This promo was once again very good, really made me more excited about their match. The one thing I was surprised about was how Ted DiBiase didn't change at all when I thought his Dad getting involved was supposed to change him, but I liked what DiBiase had to say and how well he proved himself not to be a coward, and I also liked Maryse's time on the stick. The insult of Finlay's age came off well, and the line about how he'd do it again and spit in his face was great. Thought Finlay would start the fight and I'm glad it didn't finish after the mic shot as it woudl make Finlay look quite weak, so the brawl was good to show the intensity of this rivalry.

Strong words from Cody Rhodes and I'm glad he got on the show. Obviously doesn't match up to what they've been doing recently but it was still a strong message from Rhodes, plus it means we won't forget about this with the King of the Ring coming up. I'm just wondering if we'll see Rhodes there.

Fantastic ending to the show. The match with Jeff and Orton was really good but the crazy spot with Jeff at the end was a great way to end the show, and a great way to leave the feud heading into the match at King of the Ring. Can a No Holds Barred end like that though? Not sure, you'd think it would have to continue but that's not really important. Would've been great if Kane sat up from the carnage to show just how much of a monster he is, but the two lifeless men getting carried out on stretchers is a good ending. Their match should be good at King of the Ring.

Once again it was a very enjoyable show, both promos and matches were very good on this show and you did a good job of hyping the KOTR, with Kane/Hardy and Finlay/DiBiase in particular. Lots of stuff to look forward to for Vengeance as well with Orton/Kennedy, London/Kendrick, Rhodes/Kofi, so the show was good in hyping both PPV's. There were a few things I wasn't keen on, but on the whole it was a great show and i'm looking forward to the PPV now.
 
#1,192 ·
RAW Feedback

Strong promo to open us up. I felt it was maybe a little short, but considering the length of this show and the matches, I suppose that might be a good thing. Anyway, there wasn't much that I didn't like about this, except for one thing: Kennedy going for his catchphrase during a heated promo from him. He went from aggressive to clowny very quickly, and it seemed out of place. But anyway, the two matches Bischoff announced are huge. Jeff vs. Orton in a No Holds Barred seems like something you shouldn't be giving on TV, but I'm glad you are. Kennedy/Kane to kick us off sounds great, so let's get to it.

Kennedy put up a good fight in that he didn't stay down after some big moves, but I can't say I was a fan of Kane basically no-selling him. I've never liked monster characters for that reason, it's hard for things to be truly competitive, which is what I like. So Kennedy, he didn't look any better or any worse than before the match, while Kane did look dominant. Made for a good match, but not as productive on one end as the other.

Ah, I'm liking this angle more and more. What does The Corporation and their new inside man Regal have in store next week? I guess I'll have to tune in to find out!

Good match to make both women look strong. It seems as if one of the two women challenging for the belt'll turn face, although it's still up in the air, with hints being given for both. Victoria looked like a very resilient champ, while Nattie looked like a legit contender, and Melina looked like a spiteful women out to get what she wants. Good stuff all around, the Title Match should be very good if it's more like this and less like last week's.

Short but sweet stuff from Jeff, I liked it. I thought maybe a question about having a No Holds Barred Match six days before a WWE Title Match with a monster might've been in order, though. Kendrick introducing himself into the segment was a nice touch, even if you do it often. His words weren't something we haven't seen before, but maybe it's the way it came off to me, but I felt he said it in a way that sounds like he's hiding a surprise for the match. Don't know if that's the case, but we'll see. Both matches hyped here should be good.

Loved this segment. It wasn't the typical wrestling scenario, which is mostly what I loved about it. I also loved that it wasn't held earlier in the day or whatever, but last Tuesday. Good flashback stuff there, and the main purpose of the segment, the dissension of Evolution, was brilliant. I loved how Batista was so defensive of himself, then slipped up by saying he was "sorry he wasn't there for Rick.. well for both of them", subtle stuff there. One of the best segments to come out of this inner program of the feud, made me want to see what was next. Great job here.

Good promo by Morrison and Miz to start us off, but Cryme Tyme was the highlight of it. I could very easily imagine them saying what they did, especially with the characterization there (although like I said earlier, sometimes it's a little hard to read). The match was fairly standard, solid redebut for Goldust, especially going over a champion. I was a little confused by the ending, though, because I thought The Colons and Perez had somehow gotten involved, when they hadn't. When I realized that was the case, their appearance didn't mean much, since they didn't do anything. That was my major problem, although I did notice something else, not as important: when Goldust comes out, you said his music was "Gold Lust," but when he won, you called it "Shattered Dreams". Little confusing, but still enjoyed it.

Didn't really like this segment between Victoria and Melina. The opening lines just didn't seem to click. Got better following that, though, sounded a little more right, which is the closest thing I can come up to substitute for the word I'm looking for. Anyway, the match between the two next week sounds pretty good, although I'm interested in seeing if Natalya'll have some sort of official role in it like Melina did in her's.

Fun match that showcased both guys very well, but I felt the ending came a little out of left field. If anything, I would've expected Kendrick to have gone berserk. It worked alright, but I'll need to see what's next to make up my mind on just how successful this turn of events was. Still, great stuff, I'd love to see these two go at it on PPV, go all out.

Ah, and we will be getting that PPV match, alright! Like I said earlier, I needed to see what happens next to say my final piece on London losing it, but I was a little disappointed that finishing that end up wasn't the main focus of this segment. It tied things up nicely and made it work better, but this was mostly to advance Regal turning on Bischoff. I liked the two raising their voices, showing things brewing closer to the big impact, although I didn't like the all-caps "OKAY", didn't seem like something you should yell. Great exchange there, even though it overshadowed the London/Kendrick saga.

Solid match, although I felt it lacked a little in the importance factor. Maybe it was the lack of a segment to hype it up, or no commentary for it, but it needed a little more than just the ads. Anyway, good stuff, the Rey/Kenny program being advanced more than anything else, including the KOTR that all four guys are a part of. Still, gave us a little preview of what we might be able to see, so that's good, and was a good match overall.

Ah, some very good progression in this feud. DiBiase was great on the mic, typical heel but done right, which made it not as typical. I think maybe Finlay got a little too much to say, but that's objective, really. Anyway, I'm also glad that Maryse got some lines as well, and I'm a little glad you didn't go for the French accent, it'd be hard to read (and I'm not sure how one would write one anyway). Still, this made me look forward to their KOTR encounter more, especially if this means Hornswoggle will finally be put out of our misery once and for all.

I felt this segment between Kofi and Cody a little odd, because I didn't think that after everything they've been through together, they'd ever be in the same room speaking civily to each other. Still, Cody getting under Kofi's skin was good, perhaps getting to him for KOTR? Still waiting for more from these two, as always.

Good build-up from the commentators for the rest of the KOTR matches, all look like strong matches. Should be a hell of a PPV, looking forward to it Nige.

Awesome main-event to give the WWE Title Match some huge momentum. Orton looked strong on this match, although I didn't exactly like how he got taken out. Hitting the steel stage is something we've seen before, but that was really the only low-point of this match. Jeff diving off what I believe was the TitanTron onto Kane was very reminiscient of what he did to Orton over a year ago, unless it wasn't the Tron, and it was the same spot. Either way, it was good stuff, hell of a way to send us home for KOTR and make us want to see what's going to happen with Kane and Jeff.

Show was longer than usual, and it was a very good one at that. Strong matches and promos to build up the PPV, which has a very solid card. Vengeance also got some decent side-build as well, three(?) big matches already on the card. Outside of the main event, though, I did think it lacked a bit of that go-home feel to it. The tag match between RAW's four competitors was just sort of there and not as effective as it could've been, but anyway, still looking forward to the big PPV. 7.5/10.
 
#1,194 ·
Smackdown Preview - Friday 13th June 2008
Live From the Kansas Coliseum
Wichita, Kansas




**LAST STOP BEFORE THE KING OF THE RING!**


PUNK LEARNS OF HIS NEXT CHALLENGE
The new World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk has certainly been put to the test in recent weeks by Tazz, but Smackdown’s General Manager pulled a rabbit out of the hat last week. Just as Punk was revelling in announcing that Shawn Michaels would be on the shelf for a while after their match the previous week, Tazz interrupted him and his address about being the champion Smackdown needs. The ‘boss’ didn’t take to Punk’s speech all too well and challenged him to match up to Michaels’ last act as champion by defending his title against The Undertaker, making the match for the main event. Punk was shocked, but he was spared the test thanks to Chris Jericho, but that was not to be the end of Punk’s night as MVP caught him off guard with a big surprise.

The man who Punk took the Money in the Bank contract from at Judgment Day blind sided The Straight Edge Superstar and put him flat on his back, something that he intends to do this weekend at the King of the Ring. Smackdown’s Most Valuable Player told everyone that he’s just finished talking to Tazz, and that he will be facing Punk this Sunday night with the World Championship on the line. You can bank on MVP doing everything in his power to make up for Judgment Day both at the King of the Ring, and this Friday night when he has a chance to get his hands on Punk just days before they collide for the world title. WWE.com understands that Tazz has signed a match for this coming week that will see MVP and a partner of his choosing to take on Chris Jericho and the man he will meet at the Staples Center 48 hours later.

Can MVP make a statement heading in to the King of the Ring? Tune in this Friday night to find out.

JERICHO SIGNS HIS OWN DEATH WARRANT​
Upon his return to the WWE a couple of weeks ago, Chris Jericho found himself walking on dangerous ground as he questioned The Undertaker’s desire to compete. Despite escaping unscathed that night, he wasn’t so lucky last week when he made it perfectly clear that he felt the dead man was on his last legs while stood face to face with the phenom himself. The Undertaker reacted understandably by grabbing Jericho around the throat, but it appeared that he had second thoughts with Jericho claiming the phenom was scared because what he was saying was the truth. The dead man saw red, and this time he chokeslammed Jericho all the way to hell. However, that was not to be it as Jericho gained immeasurable revenge later on in the evening by ensuring The Undertaker wouldn’t receive a further title shot, attacking him with a steel chair before his title bout with CM Punk. Jericho laid in to him with shot after shot, but are they actions he will soon regret?

After coming to the World Champion’s aid last week, Jericho will join forces with Punk officially this week as they take on MVP and a partner of the number one contender’s choosing. Will he be able to help Punk again this week?

CHRISTIAN LEFT HANGING ON THE EDGE​
Christian hasn’t held back in verbally attacking his Edge since returning to Smackdown two weeks ago, but last week he wanted to go that little bit further, challenging his big brother to a match. However, The Rated R Superstar wasn’t playing along and advised everyone including Christian that his injury still hasn’t heeled fully. To Edge’s surprise, Christian wasn’t too downbeat at his offer being turned down as he told him that he was willing to wait for the chance to go one on one with his big brother.

Just how long will we have to wait to see them go at it?

FOUR MEN, ONE GOAL​
With the King of the Ring being just days away, Smackdown’s four representatives in the prestigious elimination tournament will go head to head in a fatal fourway match on Friday night. Elijah Burke earned his spot two weeks back, but Matt Sydal, Chavo Guerrero and the United States Champion, Shelton Benjamin booked their spots last week. Sydal overcame Orlando Jordan while The Gold Standard put the non title defeat he suffered a week earlier at the hands of Sydal to one side as he defeated Tommy Dreamer. Chavo booked his place in controversial fashion after using a steel chair to defeat his bitter nemesis, Ron Killings.

How will these four men fair as they lock horns with so much at stake just 48 hours before they attempt to become the 2008 WWE King of the Ring? You’ll have to make sure you tune in to Smackdown this week to find out. Whoever emerges with a victory will give themselves a huge lift as they head to the Staples Center this weekend.

TAG CHAMPS FIGHTING BACK​
Usually we see The Masters of the Mat take the fight to their rivals, but it’s clear that the WWE Tag Team Champions have had enough of it. The UK Pack watched on closely last week as Chris Masters & Charlie Haas were in action against Matt Hardy & Elijah Burke, and when the challengers to their thrown looked like playing dirty once more, Harry Smith & Paul Burchill snapped and ensured that wouldn’t happen, leaving Masters & Haas in no doubt that they have a fight on their hands.

Now that they’ve set a fire under the two Englishman, have Masters & Haas made life more difficult for themselves?

PLUS​
Jack Swagger followed up his debut victory with a hard fought win over Super Crazy last Friday night. Will he continue to impress this week if he graces us with his presence?

It appears that Beth Phoenix & Mia Rain are struggling to get along right now, and after appearing to come to her rescue the week before, The Glamazon told Mia last week that she was not intimidated by her and her belief that she is the most dominant diva on Smackdown. Has Rain touched a nerve with Beth? And is she actually the most dominant diva on Smackdown? These two might have trouble being pulled apart if the last few weeks are anything to go by.

The Cruiserweight Champion, Michael Shane and Johnny Jeter were two more superstars that were involved in a confrontation last week. Jeter was angrily watching his former friend, Matt Sydal on a monitor in the back when Shane happened to walk past and comment positively on Sydal to the frustration of Jeter, who mumbled something about Shawn Michaels’ injury. Luckily for Jeter, Shane didn’t catch the jibe made about his cousin. Maybe Jeter should learn to keep his mouth shut. We’ll have to see if he does.


CONFIRMED FOR THIS WEEK ON SMACKDOWN

MVP & ? ? ? vs CM Punk & Chris Jericho

King of the Ring Contenders Match
Elijah Burke vs Matt Sydal vs Shelton Benjamin vs Chavo Guerrero​

 
#1,195 ·
Punk vs. MVP at KOTR should be a strong match, one that I've been looking forward to for some time now. MVP's mystery partner for the main event seems a little too telegraphed, so I'm thinking it won't be 'Taker. But who then, Matt Hardy? His program with Punk hasn't been completely resolved, and I'd love for him to get a match for the belt at some point.

Looking forward to more Jericho/'Taker interaction, and as a bigger fan of Jericho, I'm with him. 'Taker's chokeslam wasn't justified, because like Y2J said, he knows Jericho's right. Anyway, Jericho is awesomeness, and I doubt this program will be a let-down.

Edge vs. Christian is a money feud, and it's being built up slowly and carefully, making us anxious for the match. Looking forward to more build-up.

The Fatal 4-Way between the KOTR contenders sounds great, as I expect it to be a great match that will progress a lot of stories (the KOTR itself, Shelton/Sydal, maybe Chavo/Killings). Should be fun.

The Tag Title feud has slowed down a little after Judgment Day, a good move, I feel. It seemed that the Masters were getting pushed a little too hard, and that the big pay-off wouldn't come at the right time. Seems that that's the case no longer, which is good.

Swagger getting another squash sounds reasonable at this stage, the Divas' program continues to look great, and continuing to build the new feud over the CW belt should all make for some good TV (or in this case, reading).

Show looks great, Nige, looking forward to it and the PPV following.
 
#1,196 · (Edited)
I can't wait for Smackdown or King of the Ring, MVP vs. Punk should be great at King of the Ring. Like Rated R said Undertaker seems like way too obvious of a choice to be MVP's partner. I'm really interested to see who it ends up being.

Another thing about Smackdown that is really interesting me about your Smackdown is, Jack Swagger and where he's going. I know you made a news post saying that Bobby Lashley's plans will be revealed soon for some reason I got a feeling that he will have a match with Swagger at Great American Bash, Swagger won't face jobblers forever. I just got a feeling that Lashley vs. Swagger is going to happen. But I'm really interested to see where Swagger goes.

Can't wait for Smackdown or King of the Ring
 
#1,197 · (Edited)
Smackdown Results - Friday 13th June 2008
Live From the Kansas Coliseum
Wichita, Kansas




*Video Recap*
From Last Week

Chris Jericho running down The Undertaker, only to be confronted by the dead man himself, and despite showing no fear, Jericho managing to push Taker too far, resulting in Taker grabbing him around the throat but being unable to chokeslam him. Jericho then accused Taker of being scared, but this time Taker had no problem chokeslamming him.

The World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk announcing that had he put Shawn Michaels on the shelf following their match the week before, only for Tazz to come out and state that Michaels will be out for a while, but he will be back. He then announced that Punk would be showing just how good of a champion he is by putting him to the test later on when he would be defending the world title against The Undertaker, the man Michaels beat at Judgment Day.

Punk waiting in the ring for The Undertaker, and on the dead man’s entrance to the arena, Jericho attacking him repeatedly with a steel chair before walking to the back and looking satisfied with his work.

The World Champ smiling in the ring until MVP snuck in behind and nailed him with the Playmaker, then announcing he would be challenging Punk for the World Championship at the King of the Ring


***Opening Video***
“If You Rock Like Me”

***PYRO***
***PYRO***
***PYRO***



***Video Promo***






{Cut to Ringside}​

Michael Cole:
Welcome everyone to Friday Night Smackdown, and as you can see, we’ve got an action packed show for you tonight.

Matt Striker: That’s absolutely right Michael. Not only are we going to see CM Punk and MVP compete in the same ring tonight just hours away from their World Championship match at the King of the Ring, the four Smackdown representatives in the King of the Ring tournament this Sunday will square off in a fatal fourway match. . . There really is so much at stake here tonight with the King of the Ring right around the corner.

Michael Cole: And the word going around the back earlier today Matt is that Christian has a surprise in store for his brother, Edge. . . I wonder what that will be.

Matt Striker: I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough Michael. . .

“Hell Will Be Callin’ Your Name” hits to a pop from the crowd as Bobby Lashley walks down to the ring with a fairly serious look on his face.

Matt Striker: . . . But it appears it’s time for our opening contest.

Lashley slaps the hands of the fans as he makes his way down the ramp before entering the ring and posing for them. “Nothin’ But The Money” then blasts out as a surprisingly confident looking Orlando Jordan walks on down to the ring, ignoring the taunts from the crowd. As his music cuts, “On Your Knees” plays with a casually dressed Jack Swagger makes his way out to the stage to the surprise of everyone, getting booed as he calmly looks in to the crowd.

Michael Cole: What’s he doing out here? He’s not scheduled for this match.

Matt Striker: I’m not quite sure Michael, but it looks like we might just find out.

Swagger and his goofy grin make their way to the announce table. He picks up a headset with both Cole & Striker standing up to greet him while Lashley & Jordan look confused by his presence.

Matt Striker: I don’t believe we’ve had the pleasure Jack. It’s great to have you here.

Jack Swagger: You’re welcome.

Michael Cole: Hi Jack. You’ll have to forgive us, we’re a little surprised to have you join us.

Jack Swagger: Well Michael, I just thought that I’d take a different approach tonight. . . See, I’ve shown everybody what Jack Swagger can do in that ring the last couple of weeks, so I thought I’d put my feet up and see how the other stars around here compare t’ me. You don’t mind d’ ya fellas?

Matt Striker: No not all. And if you don’t mind me saying Jack, I for one have been very impressed by you and your performances since coming to Smackdown.

Jack Swagger: I get that a lot, but thank you Matt.

Michael Cole: Well I guess we better turn our attention to the match in hand guys.

Jack Swagger: Sure. That’s what we’re all here for.


***The Opening Match***

Bobby Lashley vs Orlando Jordan​
ENDING:
Lashley is in control, and he calmly walks over to pull Jordan up from his knees. He then whips him in to the ropes, but Jordan desperately grabs and holds on to the top rope as he comes in to contact with them. Lashley’s face contorts in to anger, and he then runs right at Jordan who pulls the rope down with Lashley going over the top to the floor below. He hits the floor in front of Swagger, and the youngster has a little chuckle while Jordan leans by the ropes and takes a much needed breather. As Lashley starts to get back up, Jordan sees the need to act and climbs through the ropes to jump down to the floor where he tries to pull Lashley up. The big man fights back and shoves Jordan back close by to where Justin Roberts is seated. Lashley then climbs back in the ring, and as Jordan gets back up, he grabs a steel chair and rushes back in the ring with everyone looking shocked at the announce table, especially Swagger. Lashley is oblivious as he then turns round to see Jordan standing close by the ropes with the chair held aloft.

Lashley manages to react in time and kicks Jordan in the stomach with the chair falling to the mat and Lashley grabbing Jordan around the upper body to toss him behind with an EXPLOSIVE OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . Jordan rolls around, and as Lashley stands up, the chair catches his attention. He then walks over to it and looks down at it for a couple of seconds when Jack Swagger stands up from the announce table, walks over to the apron and pulls the chair out of the ring. The fans boo his decision to get involved, and Lashley doesn’t look impressed either while Swagger lifts the chair up and protests his innocence, saying the chair shouldn’t be in there. He then drops the chair with Lashley staring down fiercely at him while Jordan picks himself back up in the centre of the ring. Lashley then turns his attention back to his opponent, and it’s a good thing as he turns round to see Jordan up on his feet and about to run at him, but Lashley explodes, charging to meet Jordan and rip him in half with a SPEAR. . . . . The fans cheer as Lashley follows up for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Bobby Lashley by pinfall @ 5.52.

AFTERMATH: Lashley’s music hits once more as Swagger looks on, shaking his head while Lashley gets his arm raised by the referee. Lashley then turns and looks right at Swagger, not impressed at all by the youngster getting involved in his match. Swagger keeps his eyes on him too as he walks round the outside before walking back up the ramp with Lashley still glaring at him.


{Cut Backstage}​

Tazz is on his cell phone in his office when CM Punk, the World Heavyweight Champion walks in to the room, and he doesn’t appear to be in the best of moods. He stares at Tazz, who stops talking for a couple of seconds and looks put out by Punk’s presence.

Tazz: Look, I’ll have t’ call y’back. . . A’ight. See ya.

Tazz drops his phone on his desk and looks at Punk.

Tazz: So, what can I do for ya champ?

CM Punk: Well maybe you could start by explaining to me why I wasn’t told about this so called match with MVP.

Tazz: Ev’ryone knows ‘bout that. . .

CM Punk: . . . Whoa, not the match t’night. I was talking about the small matter of a title defence Sunday night at the King of the Ring. . . See, I thought that would be the kind of thing a general manager would run by his World Champion as a show of respect. . . But how do I find out about it? I get jumped and told as I’m lying on my ass in the middle of the ring. . . I’m the World Heavyweight Champion Tazz, I deserve better than that. All I want is to be shown a little respect. Is that really too much to ask?

Tazz: A’ight, you wan’ me t’ level wit’ y'champ? . . . 'kay. . . See I decide how things are run around here, that’s why I’m the G M, an’ maybe I deserve a little more respect than you’re showin’ me right now, an’ a hell of a lot more than last week when you jumped the gun and told the world about Shawn Michaels. . . And since we’re bein’ honest wit’ each other, I’ll tell y’how it is. . . I was gonna tell y’bout your match wit’ MVP last week, but since you thought you’d make the announcement ‘bout Shawn, I thought I’d let MVP be the one t’ tell the world about your first ever, and maybe your only pay-per-view title defence. . . That sounds fair right champ?

Punk smirks.

CM Punk: Y’know what boss? . . . That’s fine, but really? Maybe my only pay-per-view title defence? . . . C’mon. You don’t seriously think I’m dropping this already? . . . I’m gonna be holding on to this bad boy for a while yet. No amount of matches you make are gonna change that.

Tazz grins at Punk’s self-confidence when The Masters of the Mat, Chris Masters & Charlie Haas walk in looking very serious, seemingly to the frustration of the GM.

CM Punk: Hey, I’ll leave y’to it. . . Later guys.

Masters & Haas just turn and watch Punk walk out of the room before turning back to face Tazz.

Chris Masters: Forget about him, you’ve got more important things to deal with, like what those English S O B’s pulled last week, ‘cause I don’t know if you noticed, but they cost us our match. Now we know you’re used to protectin’ ‘em, but if you don’t do somethin’ about it. . . trust me, we will.

Tazz: Well believe it or not gentleman, they’re not usually the ones who cause all the problems. . . That’d be you two. . . If I remember rightly, you were the ones that broke Burchill’s wrist just days before Judgment Day, an’ you’re up in here gettin’ in my face about ‘em costin’ you a match? . . . You two need t’ get real and look at your own actions. And wit’ that said, tonight Mister Masterpiece, you can do somethin’ about it, ‘cause you’re gonna be goin’ one on one wit’ Harry Smith. . . In fact, that’s next, so y’better get goin’.

Masters & Haas don’t look impressed and just turn round in anger, slamming the door as they leave with Tazz smirking and going to pick up his phone.


{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 Backstage}

Jack Swagger is talking to a production worker when Bobby Lashley walks right up to him, worrying the worker.

Production Worker: Erm. . . I think I’m needed at the other side of the arena.

Swagger has a stupid grin on his face, but Lashley looks deadly serious.

Bobby Lashley: What the hell was all that about?

Jack Swagger: Whoa, calm down. There’s no need t’ get all flustered.

Bobby Lashley: You get involved in my matches for no reason, I think I deserve an explanation. . . You try it again and I promise you it’ll be the last time.

Jack Swagger: Whoa, am I supposed to be scared Bobby? If you saw my matches, you wouldn’t me comin’ up t’ me makin’ threats, and you certainly wouldn’t see me usin’ chairs to win them. . . I have a little thing called god given talent, and I don’t need t’ resort t’ cheatin’ like some people I could mention. Maybe you should take a leaf out of my book.

Lashley sn-iggers, not taking Swagger seriously.

Jack Swagger: You think I’m jokin’ Bobby boy? I could take you on any place, any time and I’d beat you without havin’ t’ use a chair. I’m not undefeated for a reason you know.

Lashley rubs his chin, pondering something for a second or two.

Bobby Lashley: Any time? . . . Well, if you’re not scared. . .

Jack Swagger: . . . I’m not.

Bobby Lashley: So you won’t have a problem facing me next week then? If you’re not all talk that is.

Swagger tries to act cool, but it’s clear that he’s not totally comfortable.

Jack Swagger: Fine, but make sure you leave all your chairs at home this time.

Lashley sn-iggers again.

Bobby Lashley: Oh I won't be needing them. I have these (lifts his hands up above his waist). . . I’ll see y'next week hot shot.

Lashley then turns round and walks out of the shot with Swagger showing signs of frustration.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match #2***

Harry Smith w/Paul Burchill vs Chris Masters w/Charlie Haas​
ENDING:
Masters looks to be on top after surprising Smith with a double axe handle blow to the chest. Smith sits up clutching his chest after the vicious blow with The Masterpiece revelling in his opponent’s pain, but he doesn’t appear to be finished as he reaches down and pulls Smith back up to his feet. He then whips the Brit in to the corner pads, and Smith hits the pads in a very harsh manner with Masters running in straight away to nail him with a hard shoulder thrust to the torso. Masters then backs away slowly in pain as Smith slumps to his knees and then falls forward, down to the mat. Masters takes a quick look and grins in to the crowd before once again dragging Smith back up where he then pulls him away from the corner and in to the centre of the ring. He then positions Smith’s head under his arm and lifts him vertically up in to the air for a suplex, and he keeps him up there for a couple of seconds until Smith starts kicking his legs around and manages to pull himself down to the mat. The Masterpiece is shocked, and as both men turn round, Smith explodes with a kick to the gut. He then quickly pulls Masters head between his legs, lifts him up above his head and plants him with a BULLDOG BOMB (Sit Down Powerbomb). . . . . The referee rushes across the mat and drops to his knees as Smith crawls forward to hook Masters’ leg for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . .

Masters just gets his shoulder up at the last second with Burchill looking stunned on the outside while Haas breathes a sigh of relief in Masters’ corner. Smith sits up in slight disappointment, but he’s far from finished as he stands back up and brings The Masterpiece with him. This time it’s the Englishman who looks to go for a DELAYED VERTICAL SUPLEX. . . . . He manages to lift Masters up in to the air, and after several seconds with the crowd cheering and clapping, Smith falls back to send Masters’ back crashing down on to the canvas. That brings a big pop from the fans, but Smith isn’t letting him get any recovery time at all as he returns to his feet and pulls Masters back up to his before scooping him up on to his shoulder for the RUNNING POWERSLAM. . . . . Haas panics on the outside and immediately turns round to grab a steel chair from by the timekeeper’s table and slides in to the ring. Smith turns round and sees him, then drops Masters down quite gently as he and Haas run right at each other, but as Haas swings the chair wildly, Smith ducks the shot. Haas turns round in to a hard kick to the gut and drops the chair with Smith following up with a BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . Masters then picks the chair up as he stands up with Smith doing the same, the Brit turns round in to a hellacious steel chair shot to the skull, giving the ref no choice but to call for the bell and disqualify Masters.


WINNER: Harry Smith by DQ @ 7.05.

AFTERMATH: Burchill rushes in to the ring, sliding in under the bottom rope. He runs at Haas who is just getting up and tackles him down to the mat as Masters argues with the referee, but The Masterpiece’s attention switches as he sees Haas hit the deck. He turns round as Burchill gets up, and the hot Englishman walks right in to a vicious chair shot right to the skull with a deafening thud echoing around the arena. Masters enjoys soaking up the heat, staring in to the crowd with a big smile on his face, but he’s not done. He then looks back down at the motionless Burchill and raises the chair up above his head with the fans desperately booing and praying something can save Burchill, but they’re helpless as Masters then brings the chair crashing down on to Burchill’s broken wrist.

Not even the cast can protect the Englishman from the pain, but Masters carries on, driving the chair repeatedly on to Burchill’s wrist until the referee manages to step in front of Masters. The angry Masterpiece drops the chair as Haas gets up with a smile on his face as he sees Burchill writhing around in agony with the dazed Smith slowly sitting back up. He then spots his partner is in trouble as the referee calls for help with The Masters of the Mat just looking on in with huge grins all over their faces while Smith crawls across to check on his partner. EMT’s run down the ramp and enter the ring as Smith stands up and tries to get at Masters & Haas, but the referee stands in his way with the challengers to the gold just laughing back at him before leaving the ring to a ton if heat.


{Cut Backstage}​

Mia Rain is with Tazz in his office. Mia is sat down looking confused and slightly agitated as Tazz paces the room.

Mia Rain: Are y'gonna tell me why you asked me here, ‘cause there are better things I could be doing y’know.

Just then, "The Glamazon", Beth Phoenix walks in to the room, and both divas look surprised to see each other.

Beth Phoenix: What’s she doing here?

Mia stands up right away, not happy with Beth being there.

Mia Rain: Yeah, what is this?

Tazz: If you both sit down, I’ll tell ya.

They both look tentatively at each other and sit down at both ends of the sofa.

Tazz: Look, I asked you both here because it’s clear there’s quite a bit o’ tension between y’both right?

Rain & Beth just look at each other, giving Tazz his answer.

Tazz: Right I got that. . . . For weeks now, I’ve been thinkin’ what I’m gonna do with all the divas on the books since the draft stirred things up. And I’ve gotta tell ya, I value each an’ ev’ry one o’ you divas here on Smackdown, even you two despite the problems you got goin’ on. . .

Mia Rain: Don’t look at me. She’s to blame. Ever since I got here she’s felt threatened by me.

Beth Phoenix: Excuse me. No one worries me Mia. . . no one, and that includes you Mia.

Tazz: Alright, enough. Both of yous listen to me. . . I’ve had some time to think over a couple o’ things, and I came up with a great idea. . . a divas title totally exclusive to Smackdown.

Rain & Beth’s eyes both light up, looking at each other as if to say they’ll be winning it.

Tazz: It’s gonna work like this. We’re gonna have ourselves a divas elimination series wit’ all the Smackdown divas competin’ in a match next week wit’ the one who loses the match bein’ eliminated from the series. The winner gets themselves a bye an’ misses the next match where another gets knocked out an’ so on, until there’s just one diva left, an’ she will be the new Divas Champion. That all starts next week, but t’night, I gotta special for challenge for y’both. What I wan’ y’both t’do right now is stand up an’ work together for t’night only. Next week y’can beat the holy hell out of each other for all I care. Y’both okay wit’ that?

Beth stands up looking very relaxed.

Beth Phoenix: What you waiting for Mia?

Rain doesn’t know what to make of Beth being so calm, but so slowly stands up and walks out of the room, keeping her eyes on Beth with Tazz looking very pleased with himself.


{Commercial Break}


***Video Promo***






{Cut to Ringside}


***Match #3***

3 on 2 Handicap Match
Mickie James, Michelle McCool & Maria vs Beth Phoenix & Mia Rain​
ENDING:
McCool looks in trouble as the dangerous Mia Rain reaches down and pulls her back up to her feet, and then kicks her very hard in the gut. She then drives her forearm in to McCool’s face and knocks her off balance. Rain doesn’t waste a second as she looks to carry on the attack, connecting with two more vicious forearm shots, forcing McCool back against the ropes. She then grabs her by the arm and whips McCool in to the opposite side, then runs out to meet her and takes her down with a thunderous leg lariat. Beth looks surprised but impressed on the apron as her partner then readjusts her position to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! McCool just gets her shoulder up to the relief of Mickie James & Maria in her corner. Rain sits back up before returning to her feet as she urges the squirming McCool to get back up, and slowly she does just that with Rain lurking ominously. As McCool manages to get to her feet, Rain pounces immediately by not allowing McCool to turn round to face her and grabbing her head under her arm for the RAIN DROP (Falling Reverse DDT). . . . . The fans boo as Mia takes a second, looking over at Beth to try and send her a message, but the time wasting allows McCool to escape her grasp and slip behind Rain to hit a RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP. . . . . That brings a pop from the crowd as both divas look to make the tag to their respective partners, and as McCool gets close to her corner, Rain manages to tag in the intense looking Glamazon. She charges across the ring to try and stop McCool making the tag, but she’s too late as McCool jumps forward to tag in Mickie.

A roar breaks out in the crowd as Mickie steps through the ropes and connects with a right to Beth’s gut, then follows up with an irish whip, but it’s reversed by The Glamazon. As Mickie then comes back off the ropes, she dives forward and surprises Beth with a LOU THESZ PRESS. . . . . The fan’s cheers become even louder, and as Mickie stands back up, Rain runs right at her, but in to a spin kick to the gut that sends her to knees temporarily while Phoenix stands back up. As Mickie turns round with Mia getting back up from her knees, she sees Beth running at her, and The Glamazon looks to take Mickie down with a clothesline, but Mickie ducks and Beth nails Rain, sending her right back down to the mat. The cheers get even louder as Beth looks down in shock for a second, only for Mickie to spin her round and set her up for an IMPLANT DDT. . . . . With the crowd cheering, Mickie takes her eye off the ball slightly and it allows Beth to counter and throw Mickie forward and down to the mat as she lifted her feet up off the mat. The Glamazon looks serious now, but as she’s about to walk over to Mickie, the livid Rain is back up behind her and turns her round, grilling her for the clothesline just a moment ago. They go face to face with neither backing down until Mickie picks herself back up and runs right at Beth, knocking her forward in to Rain and sending Mia down to the mat. Beth turns round and right in to a MICK KICK. . . . . The fans all stand up and count in tandem with the ref as Mickie makes the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Mickie James, Michelle McCool & Maria by pinfall @ 7.28.

AFTERMATH: McCool & Maria join Mickie in the ring with “Obsession” playing to a big pop while Rain looks on in shock, staring right at them and then angrily at The Glamazon lying on the mat. Mickie and her partners then smile across at Rain, and she clearly isn’t happy at all, but the three fan favourites enjoy their success, posing for the crowd with Rain still livid.


{Cut Backstage}​

Michael Shane, the WWE Cruiserweight Champion is walking down the hall in his casual clothes with the title resting on his shoulder when he turns a corner and bumps right in to Johnny Jeter, clearly angering him.

Johnny Jeter: What is it with you? Ev’ry time I turn round, you’re there.

Michael Shane: Er, it was an accident. Take it easy man.

Johnny Jeter: Yeah that’s one option, or you could just stay the hell away from me and keep y’mouth well shut.

Michael Shane: Wait a second, you’re not pissed about what I said last week are ya?

Jeter doesn’t say a word, shaking his head as Shane grins.

Michael Shane: You’re kidding me right? If you’re that bothered by it. . . quite honestly, it’s pretty pathetic. Moping around because you’re jealous of your buddy you stabbed in the back making a name for himself leaving you all high and dry. . . well it’s quite sad really. . . Tell you what, I’ll give you a little advice Johnny. For your own sake. . . get over it ‘cause you’re acting like an ass. Think about it.

Shane pats him on the back and walks off down the hall with Jeter absolutely steaming, staring right at him as he walks away.


{Commercial Break}


***Video Promo***




{Cut Backstage}​

Matt Hardy is sat down in the locker room drinking a bottle of water when MVP walks in, getting a big pop inside the arena, but Matt is surprised to see him and stands up to greet his former rival.

MVP: Whoa Matt, I guess you’re pretty shocked to see me here after all we’ve been through, but hear me out a’ight. . . I know we’ve had our problems, but that’s the past, an’ right now we kind o’ got one common problem. . . CM Punk.

Matt nods his head slightly, still curious as to MVP’s presence.

MVP: He stole the Money in the Bank contract from me at Judgment Day, and this ain’t a surprise to y’Matt, that ain’t the kind o’ thing I take lightly. I won that contract fair an’ square at WrestleMania in the Money in the Bank ladder match. In fact, I bust my ass t’ win that match an’ what came wit’ it, an’ Punk took it from me. There ain’t no way I’m standin’ for that. That chance to be World Champion was mine, and y’better believe I’m gonna make sure Punk regrets it this Sund’y when I get the match I earned at WrestleMania. But Sund’y can wait for now, ‘cause t’night I got myself a chance to send Punk a message up close an’ personal. An’ Matt, that’s where you come in dawg.

Matt Hardy: Me? . . . How do I fit in t’ this?

MVP: We ain’t ever gonna be friends Matt, I get that, but neither of us are ever gonna be friends wit’ that punk. We all seen what he’s done t’ you an’ Jeff, an’ that was heavy man, real heavy. I dunno if I’d ‘ave let ‘im get away wit’ that crap had it been me, but t’night we both got a chance t’ make sure CM Punk gets what’s comin’ to ‘im if you say yes to bein’ my partner. What y’say Matt?

Matt Hardy: Y’know, I think that’s the first time I’ve ever agreed wit’ you.

MVP: So we got ourselves a deal?

Matt Hardy: You’ve got a deal.

MVP: Sweet, I’ll swing by later on. . . Check y’later Matt.

Matt looks a little surprised but in a good way and picks the water back up, taking a gulp as MVP walks out of the room.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match #4***

Shannon Moore vs Johnny Jeter
ENDING: The cocky Jeter returns to his feet after a flying clothesline, and with Moore slowly picking himself back up also, Jeter runs back in to the ropes and as he comes back, he connects with a JUMPING BACK ELBOW SMASH. . . . . It sends Moore right back down to the mat, and the angry youngster slowly shifts across the mat and hooks both legs as the referee makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Moore kicks out quite comfortably and rolls on to his side as Jeter leans back and then stands back up before walking in to the corner. He climbs through the ropes and all the way up to the turnbuckle with the crowd booing while Moore is able to get up to a vertical base. As he then turns round, the confident looking Jeter takes a leap off the top to connect with a CROSS BODY. . . . . He lands right on top of his opponent, but Moore quickly rolls through for a cover of his own. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Jeter manages to counter and roll through for a cover of his own. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Moore kicks out as both men rush to their feet, and as Jeter turns round to face Moore, he is met with a thunderous ENZIGURI. . . . . Both men hit the deck close to the apron as Moore scurries across to hook the near leg. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No!

Jeter gets his free foot up on to the bottom rope to save himself the match, but he looks in a far away world as he tries to sit up with Moore now in the driving seat. He shrugs off the disappointment straight away as he stands back up and drags Jeter away from the ropes by his arm, setting him up in the centre of the ring. He then walks in to the corner and heads to the top with the fans cheering him on as Jeter starts to come round. Moore takes a look in to the crowd before turning round and leaping off for a MOONSAULT. . . . . As he comes through the sky, Jeter just manages to roll to the side at the last second with Moore crash landing into the canvas. Sighs of disappointment ring out as both men then slowly make their way back up, and Jeter is the first one up as he walks across and pulls Moore up to his feet. He throws a right hand at him, but Moore ducks and hits one of his own, and then another to put Jeter on the back foot. Moore then turns back to run the ropes, but as he comes back, Jeter ducks underneath Moore’s outstretched arm. Moore panics and turns around straight away, but right in to the GENESIS KICK (Jumping Spinning Enziguri). . . . . Moore isn’t moving as he lies on the mat, leaving Jeter with the easy task of hooking the leg while the ref drops down to count Moore’s shoulders. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Johnny Jeter by pinfall @ 5.19.

AFTERMATH: Jeter smirks like crazy, revelling in the fans booing him as he stands back up. The ref tries to raise his hand, but Jeter shrugs away and walks over to the ropes to demand a microphone. He gets it and walks back in to the centre of the ring.

Johnny Jeter: Hey, big mouth. . . Yeah I’m talkin’ t’ you Shane. You’re gonna have to listen to me for a minute if that’s okay with you mister big shot. . . We’ve all seen you walkin’ round, thinkin’ you’re so untouchable with the Cruiserweight Championship on your shoulder, but I wouldn’t get so cosy if I were you, ‘cause things can change in a split second. You can just ask your cousin about that, but I guess he’s not here right now is he?

*Heat*

Johnny Jeter: Maybe you should think twice about talkin’ down t’ me, and for the record champ, you wanna take a shot at me for stabbin’ Matt Sydal in the back. . . If I hadn’t ‘ave done that, you wouldn’t be the champ right now. So maybe you should show me a little respect before you start gettin’ an ego the size of your feeling sorry for himself, lying on his beat up ass at home cousin. . . And frankly, unlike you, I do have respect for my counterparts.

Jeter turns round and sees Moore sitting up. He then walks over and offers him a helping hand, taking Moore by surprise.

Johnny Jeter: Come on Shannon, let me give you a hand. . . Everybody give it up for Shannon Moore. . . That was a good effort man. . . for a change.

Jeter clobbers Moore with the microphone, resulting in Moore falling to the mat and a whole lot of boos for Jeter, who just drops the mic and laughs as he leaves the ring with his music hitting once again. The referee checks on Moore as the remorseless Jeter just laughs as he turns and looks back.


***Video Promo***






{Commercial Break}


***Video Promo***




{Cut Backstage}​

Josh Matthews is standing by.

Josh Matthews: Ladies and gentleman, please welcome my guest at this time. . . Chris Jericho.

The camera zooms out to reveal “Y2J” Chris Jericho standing alongside Josh, and Jericho is dressed to compete.

Josh Matthews: Chris, first off I have to ask you about what happened last week when you not just prevented the main event match 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 in fact what they were. . . Yes there are some people who are under the same impression as The Undertaker himself in that he is still the same unstoppable force that’s grown and grown in front of our very eyes for nearly twenty years, but they’re wrong Josh. . . very wrong. What I did last week was right a wrong, as it also appears that our general manager believes The Undertaker is at the top of his game like some of the moronic people who fill these arenas week after week, but I wasn’t about to stand by and let The Undertaker make matters worse for himself by competing at a level which he is no longer at despite what he, Tazz and his loyal followers may think.

*Boos from the arena filter through*

Chris Jericho: So 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.

Josh Matthews: It’s fairly obvious that not a lot of people share your opinion on The Undertaker, but in regard to your own desire to compete for the World Championship, you will in fact be teaming up with the World Champion, CM Punk later on tonight. . .

Chris Jericho: . . . Let me stop you there Josh. Like I said before, a lot of things have been said, and every last syllable has been incorrect. That includes the rumours of any kind of allegiance between myself and our World Champion. The only person Chris Jericho aligns himself with is Chris Jericho. And tonight I have a chance to show to the world that unlike The Undertaker, I deserve to be in the ring with the World Heavyweight Champion, and I am going to ensure that CM Punk sees that himself too.

Josh seems to be distracted and looks over Jericho’s shoulder, causing Jericho to turn round, and as he does, he’s greeted by the sight of Christian and his problem solver, Tyson Tomko. Christian & Jericho stare right at each other for a good few seconds.

Chris Jericho: Long time no see. You couldn’t have chosen your time any better as Josh and I were just discussing certain undeserving individuals, and here you are.

Christian smirks while Jericho looks deep in to his eyes before walking past him and Tomko.

Christian: Wow. What got up his ass?

Josh Matthews: Christian, can I get a quick word?

Christian: Sure, what can I do for y’Josh?

Josh Matthews: Well, word going round is that you have something of a surprise in store tonight.

Christian: Good news travels fast, that’s good to know. And to officially answer those rumours, I do have something that I intend t’ get off my chest later on t’night, but for it t’ remain a surprise Josh, it kind of means I have t’ keep it under lock and key for now. You understand that right?

Josh Matthews: Yeah of course, but can’t you give us just a hint?

Christian: A hint? Let me think about that for a sec. . . It involves a. . .

Josh Matthews: . . . A what?

Christian: You really wanna get yourself a big inside scoop don’t y’Josh? . . . Tell y’what, I’ll give you a little heads up before I go out there. How’s that sound?

Josh Matthews: Alright, I guess.

Christian: Good man. I’ll see y’later. . . Let’s go Tomko.

Both Christian & Tomko then walk out leaving Josh to try and figure out just what Christian has up his sleeve for later on.


{Cut to Ringside}


***Match #5***

King of the Ring Contenders Match
Elijah Burke w/Layla vs Matt Sydal vs Shelton Benjamin vs Chavo Guerrero​
ENDING: Benjamin looks very smug as he stands tall in the ring having just ducked a clothesline from Burke by pulling the top rope down. Only Sydal is trying to get back up with Chavo still down by the corner as The Gold Standard slowly walks across towards Sydal and helps him up from his knees, but he gets a shock as Sydal throws a right forearm at him, and then another. The quick as a cat youngster turns back to run the ropes, and as he races back, he takes the United States Champion with a flying forearm. A cheer breaks out in the crowd as both men make their way back up, but Benjamin runs right in to trouble and a FEINT ENZIGURI IN TO A HEAD SCISSORS TAKE DOWN. . . . . The fans really get behind Sydal now as he returns to his feet with Shelton struggling behind him, and once again The Gold Standard turns in trouble as Sydal grabs him around the upper body and plants him with the CYCLORAMA (Belly to Belly Moonsault Slam). . . . . Sydal stands back up to a big pop with Shelton barely moving on the mat, and Sydal drags him closer to the corner before climbing to the top rope, looking to hit the SHOOTING STAR PRESS. . . . . Just as he’s about to jump off, Chavo comes out of nowhere and runs from the adjacent corner to drive his fist in to Sydal’s gut, knocking him in to a seated position on the top rope. He then stomps across Benjamin’s chest to send him under the bottom rope and to the floor below before turning his attention back to Sydal. He climbs up to the second rope and sets him up for a suplex, only to then climb all the way to the top with the grip still in tact. He then takes the giant leap by falling to the canvas and connecting with a SUPERPLEX. . . . . Both men lie there for several seconds before Chavo is able to turn himself round and reach across with one arm, placing it on Sydal’s chest for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No!

Burke reaches inside and just about manages to pull Chavo away from Sydal by his feet. Burke then crawls back inside with Chavo getting to his knees alongside him, and Burke pulls him up to whip him in to the opposite set of ropes, and as Chavo comes back, Burke ducks his head and it gives Chavo the opportunity to kick him square in the head. Burke’s head snaps back up with Chavo then taking further advantage by planting him with a NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Kick Out! Burke gets his shoulder up, and Chavo doesn’t look too happy. He then gets back up with Sydal rolling to the ropes and Burke trying to get up to his knees. Chavo looks focused as he pulls Burke up once again and drills him with a European uppercut, then follows up with an irish whip only for Burke to counter it, and as Chavo comes back off the ropes, Burke plants him with a LIFTING SPINNING SIT DOWN SPINEBUSTER. . . . . A big pop breaks out as Burke looks to hold on for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Sydal stops the count with a kick to Burke’s back, bringing a mixed reception. As Burke then tries to sit up, Sydal runs back in to the ropes, races back and connects with a SIT DOWN DROPKICK ON BURKE. . . . . That caught Burke right in the face, sending him flat on his back with Layla looking on concerned. Sydal turns the attention on Chavo, but as he walks over to him, Shelton slips back in the ring and attacks from behind, clubbing Sydal across the back and sending him with a RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX. . . . . The United States Champion then walks over to Burke and stomps him away from the centre of the ring to by the ropes before turning back round to see Chavo using the ropes to pick himself back up.

He then charges right at Chavo as he steps away from the ropes, but The Mexican Warrior manages to step to the side with Shelton running right in to the pads chest first. Chavo then looks to steal a cheap one by turning back in to the corner and rolling Shelton up from behind while resting his feet on the ropes as the ref makes the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Shelton just kicks out as both men then rush to their feet. It’s Chavo who takes the initiative by ducking a right hand and pulling Shelton in to place for a suplex, and he hits it. Chavo holds on to the grip and with a twist of the hips, he’s back on his feet to hit another and then one more to complete THE THREE AMIGO’S. . . . . Some fans cheer because of the late great Eddie Guerrero, but most boo Chavo as he stands back up posing arrogantly. He then walks in to the corner and climbs to the top rope as Sydal comes round by the ropes with the referee checking on him, looking a very groggy as he holds his neck, sat up on his knees by the ropes. Ron Killings then runs down the ramp and jumps up on to the apron, grabbing Chavo’s foot. Chavo turns round in anger at the sight of his bitter nemesis standing right there, and Killings drills him with a right hand, sending Chavo down to the mat. Killings hops back down off the apron with a very intense look on his face with the unimpressed referee walking over telling him to stay out of the way as Burke, Sydal and Chavo struggle to their feet. Sydal steps out, still looking dazed and right in to a clothesline from Burke, and as Burke turns round, Chavo throws a wild right at him. Burke ducks it and kicks him in the gut before planting him with THE ELIJAH EXPERIENCE. . . . . It looks to be over with everyone else down as Burke hooks both legs for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNER: Elijah Burke by pinfall @ 9.33.

AFTERMATH: “Don’t Waste My Time” plays as Burke stands back up to get his arm raised with Benjamin coming round on the inside as Killings back tracks up the ramp with a smile on his face. He then turns his back on the ring with Raw’s Kenny Dykstra then appearing out of nowhere in the ring, knocking Sydal down with a club to the back before turning Burke round in to a Rolling Cutter. He then stands back up and walks over to the ropes looking very pleased with himself as Sydal stands up and runs at him, but Kenny gets through the ropes quick enough while Layla slips in to the ring to check on Burke. Sydal stares angrily at Dykstra, but the Raw star just laughs at him, seemingly infuriating the usually calm Sydal.


{Commercial Break}


***Video Promo***




{Cut Backstage}​

Matt Sydal & Layla are walking through the back with Elijah Burke, who is walking a bit slower and looking slightly dazed following the attack from Kenny Dykstra before the break when Shelton Benjamin, the United States Champion catches them up from behind. He laughs and they turn around, not looking impressed at all.

Elijah Burke: Find somethin’ funny do ya?

Shelton Benjamin: Now you mention it, yeah I do. . . you!

Layla: You won’t be laughing when my baby becomes the King of the Ring on Sunday.

Shelton Benjamin: What, y’tryin’ to make me laugh even more or somethin’? I think we all know what happened out there don’t mean squat. You might ‘ave won t’night, but you ain’t winnin’ nothin’ Sund’y ‘cause you’re lookin’ at the winner standin’ right here. . . And you. . .

Matt Sydal: Me?

Shelton Benjamin: Yeah, you. Y’can forget all about that vict’ry a couple o’weeks back ‘cause it ain’t happ’nin’ again. There’s only one man who’s gonna be the King once Sunday’s all done, an’ it certainly ain’t gonna be either of you. . . it’s gonna be The Gold Standard, Shelton Benjamin. . . You look after yourself, an’ you never know, I might see y’Sund’y. Not that you’d wanna!

Burke, Sydal & Layla just look at Benjamin in complete disgust as he walks past them and out of the shot.


{Cut to Ringside}​

“If You Close Your Eyes” hits to a big pop as Christian and his problem solver, Tyson Tomko make their way down to the ring with Christian grinning at the crowd as he walks down the ramp. Tomko is as serious as ever, and he stands behind Christian as they get in the ring with Christian collecting a microphone.

Christian: It looks like the peeps are out in force here in Kansas t’night.

*Big Pop*

Christian: Yeah, but we all know someone who won’t come out t’ play, and that’s my big brother, Edge.

*Heat*

Christian: Since it seems there’s no need for me to bring you up to speed with my brother’s antics, I’m just gonna cut right t’ the chase. . . A couple of weeks ago I stood in this very same ring opposite my loving brother and challenged him to a match in the hope that he might rise at the chance t’ somehow satisfy his. . . well quite frankly, his negative opinion of me. That being that I can’t cut it here in the big leagues on Smackdown.

*Heat*

Christian: Now, for someone who thinks so much of himself, I honestly thought he would snap my hand off there and then, but it appears I made a crucial mistake. . . I forgot he was Edge, a man famous for having no testicles.

*Laughing*

Christian: I honestly don’t know what I was thinkin’, lettin’ somethin’ as common knowledge as that slip my mind. I mean he brings a whole new meaning to the word coward, or as he likes to call himself, the ultimate opportunist. But y’know what I think Adam, I think y’need t’ grow a pair an’ real quick, ‘cause whether you like it or not, some day very soon, we will stand in this ring alone, look each other in the eye and beat the holy hell out of each other until there’s just one man left standin’. And trust me Adam, it’s not gonna be you, it’s gonna be yours truly. . . your little brother, Captain Charisma.

*Big Pop*

Christian: And the reason I’m out here folks is that you might get to see that a hell of a lot sooner than you might think, ‘cause earlier this week I happened to stumble across a very int’resting piece of information. . . See, the reason Adam knocked me back was because he still hasn’t recovered from the injury he suffered a couple of months back, but with Adam being Adam, it won’t surprise you to learn that he’s been keeping a teeny tiny secret from us for a while now. But y’know how it is bro’? Secrets don’t always remain secrets. Sometimes the truth comes out whether you like it or not, kind of like when we all found out you were screwin’ around behind your friend’s back with his woman.

*Heat*

Christian: So, just so that everyone’s in the picture, I think it’s for the best that they all know the injury that’s supposedly stoppin’ you gettin’ back in the ring, well it’s not as bad as you’re making out is it? . . . In fact it was all cleared up a month ago, ain’t that right bro’? . . . So I can only assume the reason you didn’t take me up on my challenge was ‘cause you’re worried your baby brother’s gonna show you up for what you really are. . . a. . .

“Metalingus” blasts out with an angry looking Edge walking out to the stage with a microphone in hand.

Edge: . . . Whoa let me stop you right there before you say somethin’ you’re gonna regret.

Christian watches on as Edge then walks down the ramp and in to the ring, walking right up to his brother.

Edge: You wanna do this, right here right now? . . . Y’know what? . . . Lets. . . The only reason I didn’t take you up on your challenge C was because despite everything, we’re still family and we both know what would happen if I said yes, and I’m not all that comfortable with that. . . But if we look past that, and analyse that challenge of yours, we both know you didn’t challenge me ‘cause you thought you could win. No ‘cause you’re not that stupid are y’bro’? . . . You challenged me t’ try and fool these people to believe in you when deep down you know that you’re nothing without me by your side, but I have to admit, you look better than that joke you’ve got standing behind you right now. But quite frankly, anyone would. And since you’re tryin’ to fill the arena with all this supposed truth tonight, I thought it was only fair t’ tell you man t’ man, brother t’ brother that I said no to your challenge for one very simple reason. . . I’d destroy you.

*Heat*

Edge: These morons might not see it like that, but they know nothing like I’ve been sayin’ for a long time. You too need t’ wake up and see reality ‘cause the facts don’t lie. Forget the last two and a half years where you’ve been making your living elsewhere, I’ve become a multi-time world champion where we stand right now. All you need t’ do is look back on our time together here. . . Who was the star huh? Who was the one who led us to each and ev’ry one of our tag team title reigns? . . . Who was the one who made sure we won more TLC matches than anyone else in history? . . . Who was the one who became the King of the Ring? . . . I’d let you have time t’ think about it, but you don’t need it do ya bro’? Because we both know that the answer t’ each of the questions isn’t you is it? . . . It’s me. . . You wanna come back here an’ try and make a name for yourself? Fine, but if y’think for a second you’re gonna do it at my expense, then you’ve got another thing comin’. . . You wan’ a match with me that bad? Fine. Let’s do it. . . In fact, how about we do it right now?

*Big Pop*

Edge: How about I shut you up once and for all? . . . You know, scrap that. Why don’t we just settle this without rules gettin’ in the way and do it the old fashioned way? No referee, just me. . .

Christian: . . . Whoa hold on. . . You really wanna do this? No strings attached? . . . You’re on.

*Massive Pop*

Edge momentarily looks over Christian’s shoulder at the fearsome sight of Tomko glaring right at him.

Edge: Hang on a second. This is between you and me. We don’t need anyone else out here. . . Either he goes or we ain’t doin’ this.

Christian turns round and looks at Tomko, who tries to reason with him, but Christian tells him to go, and reluctantly Tomko does turn round and leave the ring, walking past Edge smirking at him before walking up the ramp but facing the ring.

Edge: You sure you wanna do this?

Christian smirks and just tosses the microphone to the side and backs up with Edge nodding his head and dropping his microphone in front of him as Tomko walks through the curtain. He and Christian stare at each other for a couple of seconds, but Edge seems to change his mind and picks the microphone up again.

Edge: I’m sorry bro’, I can’t do it. I thought I could but I can’t.

Edge drops the microphone and turns round to leave the ring to a ton of heat from the crowd with Christian then walking across towards the ropes, seemingly puzzled and trying to get an explanation as Edge turns round and looks to be apologising. But then, we see two guys jump the barricade and slip in the ring behind Christian and attack him, pummelling him down to his knees. Edge then slips back in and joins them in putting the boots to Christian. They then back away and allow Christian to try and pick himself back up, but it’s clear Edge has something else in mind. He back tracks, and as Christian gets to his feet and turns round, Edge charges at him and nails him with a spear. The fans boo like crazy, but they turn to cheers as Tomko re-emerges from the back and runs down the ramp. Edge and his two accomplices see him coming and run to the side, slipping out of the ring to safety as Tomko storms in. The trio all laugh at the sight of Christian struggling as he tries to sit up, staring at them with pain written all over his face as Tomko tries to keep them away from the ring. Edge grins back at Tomko, and the big man doesn’t look happy as Edge and his buddies back track up the ramp with the pissed Christian staring at them.

Just to give you a clear picture, Edge’s buddies look a little something like this:

If you don't know their names, then you'll have to wait to find 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.


Michael Cole: Ladies and gentleman, we’re less than two nights away from the return of the King of the Ring live on pay-per-view, and what a night it’s going to be.

Matt Striker: My sentiments exactly Michael, and this is just one of the reasons why. You can put the King of the Ring tournament to one side for now, because there are championships to be decided also, including the WWE Championship when Jeff Hardy attempts to do the unthinkable in overcoming Kane. . . If he is to become the next WWE Champion, that is what he must do to reach out and touch the glass ceiling to join an elite list of names.

Michael Cole: After what we saw on Raw Monday night with Jeff diving off the stage, you can’t doubt that he’s going to do whatever it takes to do just that. . . You just have to wonder if his all is going to be enough to defeat The Big Red Machine and take away the WWE title.

Michael Cole: We saw things between these two get extremely personal Monday night, and we can expect one hell of a battle when Finlay takes on Ted DiBiase Junior for the Million Dollar Championship.

Matt Striker: Ted DiBiase Junior sure has a lot of confidence in himself, but let me tell you Michael, angering Finlay like he has recently isn’t going to help him retain his title one bit this Sunday. . . Believe me, he’s in for a very tough night this Sunday when he steps in to the ring with the fighting Irishman.

Michael Cole: CM Punk might have won the World Heavyweight Championship in a controversial manner, but he is going to have a fight on his hands to hold on to it when he battles MVP this Sunday.

Matt Striker: You’re absolutely right Michael, and let’s not forget that it was MVP that CM Punk stole the Money in the Bank contract from at Judgment Day before cashing it in to become the World Champion. Also, MVP technically didn’t lose in that fatal fourway match, so you can safely assume he’s going to be doing everything within his power to take what he believes is his.

Michael Cole: It sure is going to be an amazing night when the King of the Ring comes to you live from The Staples Center in Los Angeles California. With three championships up for the grabs in addition to the King of the Ring tournament, you can’t afford to miss a single second. So make sure you join us two nights from now in L.A.


{Cut to Ringside}


***The Main Event***

MVP & Matt Hardy vs CM Punk & Chris Jericho​
ENDING: Matt and Punk both make an attempt to get back up to their feet after a double clothesline, and the crowd respond to MVP’s encouragement to get behind Matt as both men manage to stand up. Punk throws a right hand, but it’s blocked by Matt as he then fires back with a series of blows to force Punk back up against the ropes. Matt then grabs Punk by the arm and whips the World Champion in to the opposite side, and as Punk bounces back, Matt runs out and takes him down with a back elbow smash. The crowd like that, but Punk is straight back up and he can only watch on to see Matt running back off the ropes to send him right back down with a forearm smash. That gets the crowd going even more, and as they both stand up, it’s Matt who reacts first by pulling the slightly dazed Punk in to position for a SIDE EFFECT. . . . . Cheers echo around the arena once more, but Punk fights it by driving his elbow in to the side of Matt’s head in order to free himself with Matt dropping to his knees in the process. It takes Punk a second to recover too, and as Matt stands back up, Punk reacts sharply by nailing him with a ROUNDHOUSE KICK. . . . . That sends Matt down to the mat in a hurry, and he just lies their helpless as Punk slowly drops down to his knees to make a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Matt gives the crowd hope as he lifts his shoulder up off the mat at the last second, leaving Punk shocked as he sits up and stares at the referee as Matt starts to come round and roll on to his side. Punk then stands back up and urges the slow moving Matt back up, looking to be stalking him for the GO TO SLEEP. . . . .

He then takes everyone by surprise, especially MVP by turning round all of a sudden and running at him to send him off the apron with a martial arts kick to the shoulder. He didn’t catch him all that heavily, but enough to knock him down to the floor below. MVP sits up slowly while Punk turns back round to walk over to Matt, lifting him on to his shoulder for the GTS, but Matt fights it and slips down Punk’s back. The crowd cheer, and as Punk turns round, Matt kicks him in the gut and explodes out of nowhere with the TWIST OF FATE. . . . . That sends the crowd wild with both men lying motionless on the canvas as Jericho watches on nervously. MVP climbs back up on to the apron and gets the crowd going once again as both Matt and Punk start to come round and crawl towards their respective corners. MVP looks desperate for a tag, and Jericho calls out for it too with both Matt and Punk making the tag at the same time. Jericho and MVP step through the ropes at the same time and charge right at each other, and it’s MVP who ducks under Jericho’s arm and explodes with a SNAP OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX. . . . . A big pop meets Jericho falling to the mat, but MVP is far from done as he stands back up over Jericho, signalling for the BALLIN’ ELBOW. . . . . Cheers break out from the stands as MVP steps back in to the ropes, comes back and drives his elbow down on to Jericho’s chest before following up for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! Jericho kicks out quite comfortably and looks to get on to his knee as quickly as he can, but MVP isn’t standing around either. He returns to his feet and helps Jericho up, then whips him in to the corner. Jericho hits the pads back first but somewhat tamely with MVP then running in at him, and Jericho lifts his boot up in to Porter’s face, sending him staggering out of the corner holding his face.

Jericho then runs out after him and takes him down to the mat face first with a ONE ARM BULLDOG. . . . . MVP turns over on to his back as Jericho then follows up by running in to the ropes and spring boarding for the LIONSAULT. . . . . He hits it, and he goes to hook the leg with the referee rushing over to make the count. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! MVP kicked out, and Jericho can’t believe it. He looks up in total astonishment at the referee, who just reminds him it was definitely a two count. Jericho doesn’t want to believe it, but he has no choice. He stands back up and grabs MVP’s legs right away, then turns him over to apply the WALLS OF JERICHO. . . . . The number one contender looks to be in real trouble as Jericho applies the pressure to his lower back, and the pain is evident on MVP’s face. He reaches his arm out, but he’s nowhere near the ropes. This time it’s Matt who tries to get the crowd going, and they respond right away, clapping and chanting “M V P”. It has an effect as MVP lifts his arm up off the mat and shows some real fight to the clear frustration of Jericho who keeps the hold locked in. He seems to be waning while MVP fights for his life and drags himself closer and closer to the ropes, and he gets even closer, within touching distance as he then reaches out for dear life and manages to get his hand on the bottom rope to a huge cheer from the crowd. The referee walks round and tells Jericho to let the hold go, but he’s having none of it and only lets it go at the count of four. He then stands up and turns round, looking down in complete anger and frustration at MVP. Punk doesn’t look too happy either, and as Jericho is ushered away from the ropes by the ref, Punk walks across the apron and kicks MVP right in the head to a ton of heat from the crowd.

He turns round on the apron and protests his innocence with a smug look on his face, just as he does when the referee turns round, but Punk shakes it off as Jericho pulls MVP back up and whips him in to the ropes, connecting with a SPINNING HEEL KICK AS MVP COMES BACK. . . . . Both heels look quite happy as the dazed MVP picks himself back up, and Jericho calls for him to turn round. As he does so, Jericho looks to grab him by the head and hit the CODEBREAKER. . . . . But MVP pulls his head back as Jericho lands on his back, and Porter quickly lifts Jericho’s legs and flips forward for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . Shoulder up! Jericho survives as both men rush back up to their feet as quickly as they can, and MVP ducks a right hand to then whip Jericho in to the corner. He races right in at him and connects with the PLAYA’S BOOT. . . . . Jericho just slumps down the pads as a pumped MVP backs away from the corner, but he doesn’t see Punk entering the ring behind him. The World Champion then spins his challenger round and tries to lift him on to his shoulder, but MVP fights it and drives his elbow in to the back of Punk’s head. With Punk in a spin, MVP whips him in to the ropes, but Punk holds on and taunts his King of the Ring opponent. He doesn’t bank on MVP then running at him and clotheslining him over the top to the delight of the crowd. Jericho starts to make his way back up in the corner, using the ropes to assist him, and MVP sees that as he turns back round and runs right at him.

Jericho though, sees it coming and steps out to the side as MVP runs through in to the pads chest first. He turns round and staggers out in to an INSIDE CRADLE. . . . . . . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . MVP kicks out as both he and Jericho struggle to their feet with fatigue setting in, but as MVP tries for a kick to the stomach, Jericho grabs his boot before letting it go and spinning MVP round in a 360. As MVP spins back round to face him, Jericho kicks him in the stomach and plants him with a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK BACKBREAKER. . . . . That could be all, and Jericho thinks so too as he looks for a cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . No! MVP hangs on and kicks out, but as Jericho sits up, he sees Punk standing up on the outside and grabbing his World Championship belt. Jericho then stands up and walks over to the ropes to question Punk as the World Champion walks round to the ramp, telling Jericho he’s had enough. The fans boo like crazy, and Jericho isn’t happy at all, and even Matt can’t believe it as he watches on from the apron with a smirk on his face. Jericho walks round to the ropes in front of the ramp and carries on yelling at Punk to get back in his corner while MVP starts to sit up behind him. Punk just shakes his head as he continues to back up the ramp with Jericho looking disgusted, but as Jericho then turns round, MVP is back up and takes him by surprise, kicking him in the gut and planting him with the PLAYMAKER. . . . . The fans all rise to their feet and count the fall along with the ref as MVP hooks both legs for the cover. . . . . 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3.


WINNERS: MVP & Matt Hardy by pinfall @ 11.47.

AFTERMATH: “I’m Comin” hits to a big pop from the crowd as MVP stands up to get his arm raised. He quickly turns to the side and stares right at Punk who is staring right back at the challenger to his world title. Matt joins MVP in the ring and smirks back at Punk before shaking hands with the still deadly serious MVP, glaring right at his opponent this Sunday, trying to send him a message that he’s in for a fight at the King of the Ring. Punk just smirks back and lifts his title up in to the air as the show comes to a close.


{End of Show}


QUICK RESULTS​
Bobby Lashley df. Orlando Jordan
Harry Smith df. Chris Masters
Mickie James, Michelle McCool & Maria df. Beth Phoenix & Mia Rain
Johnny Jeter df. Shannon Moore
Elijah Burke df. Matt Sydal, Shelton Benjamin & Chavo Guerrero
MVP & Matt Hardy df. CM Punk & Chris Jericho


CONFIRMED FOR NEXT WEEK

WWE Divas Championship – Elimination Series
Week 1

Plus

Bobby Lashley vs Jack Swagger


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



>Please Hold Off On Predictions Until I Post The Preview!<


 
#1,199 ·




Latest WWE Backstage News & Rumours
Last night on Smackdown, Petey Williams & Johnny Devine made their WWE debuts when they jumped the barricade and attacked Christian in what appeared to be a set up by Edge. It’s no co-incidence that they were assigned to the blue brand as they are seen as valuable additions to the cruiserweight division, Petey especially so.

Sonjay Dutt is also rumoured to be making his Smackdown debut in the next month or so since his release from TNA, but Billy Kidman will be heading to FCW to help train the developmental talent instead of returning as an in-ring performer. Low-Ki will also be joining up with the main roster once he has finished off his commitments in Japan.

Gail Kim could also be joining her fellow former TNA co-workers in her return to the WWE very soon. It’s not been confirmed which brand she will appear on as yet, but it was confirmed last night that Smackdown will be introducing a divas title of its own. Smackdown does seem to have more female talent than Raw, so there’s a possibility Kim could be heading to Raw.

The Empire, the current tag team champions in FCW will also be joining the Smackdown roster very soon, and we have seen vignettes for their debut over the last few weeks. Katie Lea will be alongside them, but there is no mention of Hade Vansen joining them. The Smackdown roster is heavy enough at the moment without him. It’s not expected that Lea will compete in the divas division immediately upon her debut.

It has also been speculated that there could be some ‘significant’ roster cuts in the coming weeks. Smackdown has seen a lot of new stars as of late with several more to follow, but the news coming out is that several high profile Raw stars and lower card talent could be on the way out. We’ll have more word on this as we get it.

FCW has also gained some new recruits with Lance Hoyt, Johnny Curtis & Serena Deeb having signed developmental contracts.

We are also led to believe that the WWE are in negotiations with Bryan Danielson with a view to him joining the company in the future. Like Low-Ki, he does have current commitments to fulfil before he would be able to start with the WWE. His dates run through the summer, but with plans already place throughout that period, this isn’t hasn’t put the WWE off at all.

The King of the Ring takes place tomorrow night from the Staples Center, and everyone backstage is excited about its return to pay-per-view. Plans for the next three pay-per-views have now also been completed with them being Vengeance, The Great American Bash & SummerSlam.


____________________________________​
The King of the Ring is completed and the preview will be up shortly. Also, there will be no FCW show before or after it. With Superstars coming back, I’ll be focusing on that and the usual Raw & Smackdown shows.

 
#1,202 ·
WWE King of the Ring 2008
Sunday June 15th 2008
Live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California




**The Preview**​


Jeff Hardy’s return to Raw has exceeded even his own expectations, and he could complete the remarkable return by becoming the new WWE Champion this Sunday night at the King of the Ring. However, standing in his path is over 300 pounds of sheer monster, the “The Big Red Machine” Kane.

After being carried out of WrestleMania on a stretcher following his I Quit match with CM Punk, Jeff goes in to this match in the same manner he left The Citrus Bowl. This past Monday night on Raw with his sights firmly set on the WWE Champion for the first time, The Charismatic Enigma sent the monster a clear message going in to what promises to be one of the most physical WWE Championship matches in recent history with Jeff’s high risk approach. Hardy wasn’t satisfied in the manner of his victory the week before that set up his title opportunity on the back of two impressive victories over JBL & Rey Mysterio. He demanded a No Holds Barred match with Randy Orton and declared that he wanted to prove to the world that he not only deserved his shot at the gold, but he is capable of being the WWE Champion.

Kane had defeated Mr. Kennedy earlier in the evening, and the defending champion decided that he wanted to send a message of his own to the challenger. He interfered in Jeff’s match and cost him a victory he craved, but it was Jeff that had the last laugh, well almost. Jeff fought back against Kane’s attack and threw him off the stage with the aid of a ladder, but that was just the beginning. The daredevil climbed up the stage, many feet high above the ground before flying through the wreckage to hit a Swanton Bomb on Kane as Paul Bearer, Kane’s father and the crowd looked on in absolute shock. The condition of both men remains unknown for now, and you have to wonder if Jeff’s actions will play a part in the outcome of this match.

Will Jeff live to regret his actions, or will they only spur him on to go one step further and become the WWE Champion?



No one was happy with the manner in which CM Punk won his first ever World Championship at Judgment Day three weeks ago, however no one was angrier and more eager for revenge than MVP.

It was just three weekends ago that both Punk & MVP were part of a fatal fourway match for the Money in the Bank contract that at the time belonged to MVP. After the match though, it was a different story as it firmly belonged to Punk. Later on in the night, so did the World Heavyweight Championship, the title that MVP worked so hard for at WrestleMania in winning the Money in the Bank contract. All that hard work was undone when Punk took the briefcase and the contract inside away from him before cashing in after Shawn Michaels’ defeat of The Undertaker. The Heartbreak Kid barely had anything left to fight off Punk, and that allowed The Straight Edge Superstar to take away Michaels’ title in addition to MVP’s own ambition.

MVP wasn’t the only one to show his frustration as it was the former champion that went looking for Punk first, quickly cashing in his own rematch clause just five days later. It was to end in the same manner for The Heartbreak Kid as Punk stole another victory, but he wasn’t done there as he looked to inflict further misery on his predecessor. That brought out MVP, who fought Punk off and sent a stark reminder that he hadn’t forgotten about the events of Judgment Day. Seven days later, Punk was due to defend his title once again, this time against The Undertaker until Chris Jericho put pay to that with a hideous attack on the dead man. The World Champion thought he had a lucky escape, but his night wasn’t over, not by a long shot. MVP stormed the ring once again, catching Punk off guard and showing him why he is a big threat going in to their title match.

The Franchise Player then informed him that he would be defending his title at the King of the Ring, something that didn’t go down too well with Punk this past Friday. He wanted to know why he wasn’t shown any respect by Tazz in not being informed personally, but Tazz put him straight on several matters. Later on in the evening, MVP had the chance to get physical with Punk just 48 hours before their title showdown and chose Matt Hardy to be his mystery partner in what turned out to be a big victory over the World Champion and Chris Jericho after Punk walked out on his partner. He didn’t look all that comfortable as MVP stared him down after the match, and MVP will be walking in to the Staples Center in confident mood on the back of that.

Can MVP follow that up with an even bigger victory in the Sunshine State, or will Punk leave him disappointed like he did three weeks ago?



Ted DiBiase Jr faces the toughest battle of his short WWE career by far when he defends the Million Dollar Championship against Finlay this Sunday night in L.A.

These two men haven’t seen eye to eye for a while now, but when Finlay inflicted the first defeat of DiBiase’s career several weeks ago, in controversial fashion it has to be said, the young star showed some real determination that many had called for, especially his father. Ted Jr went looking for Eric Bischoff, wanting Finlay dealt with, but Bischoff’s response was to allow DiBiase to deal with it himself at the King of the Ring while putting the title his father gave to him on his debut on the line. With Bischoff’s words ringing in his ears, DiBiase took action in to his own hands, attacking both Finlay and Hornswoggle. The Million Dollar Champion attacked Finlay from behind before turning his attention to Hornswoggle, something that he may come to regret by the time Sunday is through.

Knowing Finlay would be after revenge, “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase made a surprise appearance in attempting to protect his son, while not defending his actions. Finlay told the father of his opponent this Sunday night that there won’t be anywhere for Ted Jr to hide come the King of the Ring, but fast forward seven days, and the man himself came out to fight his own battle. He was keen to make it clear he wasn’t a coward, but he was quickly interrupted by Finlay before all hell broke lose. With Finlay focused on retribution and insisting the Million Dollar Championship is just a bonus, the two bitter rivals came to blows after a typical sucker punch from DiBiase. Just as it looked like they were going to tear each other apart, security stormed the ring and managed to pull them away from each other.

DiBiase has shown he means business now, but has he made a mistake in getting under the skin of the fighting Irishman? Find out this Sunday when these two threaten to beat the holy hell out of each other.



This is what the return of the King of the Ring is all about; eight men competing in one night to thrust themselves in to the limelight. One of these eight superstars will battle through three gruelling matches to earn the title of the “King of the Ring” in what will be one of the greatest moments of their careers while giving themselves the chance to have many more just like it.

Four representatives from both Raw & Smackdown will first compete in four quarter final matches with the winners advancing to the semi finals that will then leave just two men to battle it out in a match that will change their career there and then. The grid is being drawn up as we speak and will only be revealed on the night itself, leaving everyone to consider what lies in store for them.

Just who will be the man left standing?



________________________________________________________


Prediction Template

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: Kofi Kingston, Rey Mysterio, Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella
From Smackdown: Elijah Burke, Matt Sydal, Chavo Guerrero & Shelton Benjamin

Winner:
Runner Up:

Losing Semi Finalists:


(There’s one point for each of the four names guessed correctly)


Bonus Questions

How many title changes will there be, if any?

Keeping in mind the King of the Ring tournament in addition to the three other matches, which match will be the main event? (“The King of the Ring Final” will be a sufficient answer if you believe that to be the case)​


 
#1,203 · (Edited)
Preview was sweet, Nige, show as a whole looks great. Looking forward to all the matches, basically, should be awesome stuff.

WWE Championship
Jeff Hardy vs Kane (c)

I don't see Jeff winning, but I can see him getting another shot down the line

World Heavyweight Championship
Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) vs CM Punk (c)

Punk losing now would be horrible. This feud needs to go on longer, and without the title switching hands

Million Dollar Championship
Finlay vs Ted DiBiase Jr (c)

This whole program was designed to put DiBiase over, so him all the way

The King of the Ring Tournament
Participants
From Raw: Kofi Kingston, Rey Mysterio, Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella
From Smackdown: Elijah Burke, Matt Sydal, Chavo Guerrero & Shelton Benjamin

Winner: Rey Mysterio
Runner Up: Shelton Benjamin

Losing Semi Finalists:

(There’s one point for each of the four names guessed correctly)

Kofi Kingston, Kenny Dykstra, Elijah Burke, Matt Sydal

Bonus Questions

How many title changes will there be, if any?
None

Keeping in mind the King of the Ring tournament in addition to the three other matches, which match will be the main event? (“The King of the Ring Final” will be a sufficient answer if you believe that to be the case)
WWE Title
 
#1,204 · (Edited)
I know I may haven't reviwed your show here but I have been reading this, it's probably the best BTB I have read, any who I will try to stay active here.

WWE Championship Match
Jeff Hardy df. Kane

I really hope Hardy wins, though i have a feeling Kane is going to win.

WHC Match

CM Punk df. MVP

I can't see Punk loosing in any way, and I see a Michaels and Punk feud down the road so no way in hell MVP is leaving WHC champion

Million Dollar Title Match

DiBiase df. Finlay

enough said.

KOTR
Winner: Rey Mysterio can't see anyone else winning it then Rey
Runner Up: Kofi Kingston or Shelton Benjamin

Semifinal
Dykstra,Sydal,Benjamin,Burke


Title Changes
1

Main Event: Jeff Hardy vs Kane
 
#1,205 ·
Prediction Template

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: Kofi Kingston, Rey Mysterio, Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella
From Smackdown: Elijah Burke, Matt Sydal, Chavo Guerrero & Shelton Benjamin

Winner: Kenny Dykstra
Runner Up: Elijah Burke

Losing Semi Finalists:

Matt Sydal, Santino Marella, Chavo Guerrero, Rey Mysterio
(There’s one point for each of the four names guessed correctly)


Bonus Questions

How many title changes will there be, if any?
0
Keeping in mind the King of the Ring tournament in addition to the three other matches, which match will be the main event? (“The King of the Ring Final” will be a sufficient answer if you believe that to be the case)[/CENTER]
Kane vs. Jeff Hardy

 
#1,206 ·
Prediction Template

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: Kofi Kingston, Rey Mysterio, Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella
From Smackdown: Elijah Burke, Matt Sydal, Chavo Guerrero & Shelton Benjamin

Winner: Kofi Kingston
Runner Up: Matt Sydal

Losing Semi Finalists: Benjamin, Burke, Dykstra, Mysterio

(There’s one point for each of the four names guessed correctly)


Bonus Questions

How many title changes will there be, if any? 1

Keeping in mind the King of the Ring tournament in addition to the three other matches, which match will be the main event? (“The King of the Ring Final” will be a sufficient answer if you believe that to be the case) Hardy vs. Kane
 
#1,207 ·
WWE Championship
Jeff Hardy vs Kane (c)

I think there is more to come from Kane as Champion so I don't see him dropping it yet

World Heavyweight Championship
Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) vs CM Punk (c)

Punk will be Champion for a long time yet so I think he'll retain

Million Dollar Championship
Finlay vs Ted DiBiase Jr (c)

A win would do much more for DiBiase and it feels like it's his first big feud to put him over, so DiBiase.

The King of the Ring Tournament
Participants
From Raw: Kofi Kingston, Rey Mysterio, Kenny Dykstra & Santino Marella
From Smackdown: Elijah Burke, Matt Sydal, Chavo Guerrero & Shelton Benjamin

Winner: Kenny Dykstra
Its very tough to predict which is good and although Mysterio stands out as a possible winner I think this was brought back to elevate a younger guy, and I rekcon Dykstra might be that guy

Runner Up: Matt Sydal
I can see him coming really close only to just lose with him still looking great, although possibly Benjamin costing him

Losing Semi Finalists:

Elijah Burke, Shelton Benjamin, Kofi Kingston and Rey Mysterio
Can see Rhodes costing Kofi and Sydal beating Benjamin to continue their feud


Bonus Questions

How many title changes will there be, if any?
None

Keeping in mind the King of the Ring tournament in addition to the three other matches, which match will be the main event? (“The King of the Ring Final” will be a sufficient answer if you believe that to be the case)
Jeff Hardy vs. Kane
 
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