JayDeeSpur

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|KingCrash|

Be The Booker
SmackDown is up, R4R!

jbloser

Day early, don't think that hurts very much.

By the way, I'll announce the winner of the prediction contest tomorrow. I'm going to return and do reviews for shows the threads that I always do and the threads I owe them to by this time next week. Finals are coming for my school, so it's gonna be a toughie to get things done around here.

With that said, it's time to start the road to WrestleMania ...
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WWE Monday Night RAW; January 31, 2005; San Jose, California


After the normal ‘signature’ video plays through, we are given a recap video of the Royal Rumble Pay Per View from just 24 hours ago. First shown is the World Heavyweight Championship match, in which Randy Orton successfully defended his World Heavyweight Championship against Edge, despite interference from Tomko. Next is SmackDown’s Tag Team Title match, where Rey Mysterio and Rob Van Dam were able to fend off The Dudley Boyz and win their match, retaining their championship gold. Next, the encounter between Chris Jericho and Shelton Benjamin is shown, and Benjamin’s leap off the top rope hitting a bulldog on Jericho to finish off the match is seen. Next up was the epic encounter between John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield and John Cena for the WWE Championship, where JBL was able to fend off not one; not two; but THREE F-U’s and retain HIS championship. Finally, the Royal Rumble Match is shown, where of course SmackDown superstar John Cena, who was of course involved in the WWE Championship Match before, not being initially entered, won after eliminating ‘The Animal’ Batista …

… And entering the HP Pavilion, we’re treated to no opening video or pyro –

**I’m Back** The crowd gives a mixed reaction of sorts to the General Manager of RAW, who seems to have business on his mind tonight after a successful Royal Rumble last night. Although not having a superstar from RAW win the Royal Rumble, the possibility of a jump to RAW for John Cena has him on his game tonight, as he heads down to the ring.

Jim Ross: Well welcome ladies and gentlemen to Monday Night RAW. Jim Ross here along with Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler, and King it looks to me like our General Manager Eric Bischoff is looking very business-minded tonight following one of the most historic Pay-Per-Views in a long, long time.

Jerry Lawler: Well, you’re probably right JR. And it sure was an historic night 24 hours ago. I still cannot get it out of my mind … that John Cena is the 2005 Royal Rumble Winner, and he wasn’t even involved in the match to begin with!!!

Jim Ross: You did not hear wrong fans, John Cena, SmackDown’s United States Champion won the Royal Rumble Match last night, despite not being initially involved in the match. Thanks to Eugene, John Cena left Fresno with a guaranteed title shot at WrestleMania 21 in less than three months.

Jerry Lawler: But the question is, who will he face??

E-Z-E has entered the ring, and has gotten his demand of a microphone. Bischoff is looking to address the people at home and in attendance, and will get that opportunity – now.

Eric Bischoff: First of all … I’d just like to say, that it is an honor for US to come here to San Jose, California … (Cheers) so you people had better show some damn respect!

Heat pours down.

Eric Bischoff: Now, onto business. As most of you, well actually as ALL of you know …. For the third year in a row, SmackDown has managed … to one up this brand, and acquire their 3rd Royal Rumble Winner, in the last 3 years!

Slight mixed reaction, as Bischoff still remains calm, cool and collected.

Eric Bischoff: But it was … not without controversy. You see the winner of the Royal Rumble Match … John Cena (BIG pop) was not even supposed to be in the Royal Rumble Match! Yet somehow, he managed to get in it, and managed to win the whole damn thing!! And that quite honestly, is embarrassing. It’s a travesty. And it will never – ever – ever – ever happen – again!!

Mixed reaction, as Bischoff seems to be on high gear tonight.

Eric Bischoff: Now I will be making my push to make John Cena come to RAW, and have him face the World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton … or whoever the champion may be come WrestleMania. Because tonight marks the beginning, of an 8-man tournament, to crown a new number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship.

Cheers filter through, as they now bide in anticipation to see who the participants are.

Eric Bischoff: And those eight men, will include … the 7-foot ‘Big Red Machine’ Kane …

Great pop.

Eric Bischoff: ‘Captain Charisma,’ Christian!!

50/50 reaction.

Eric Bischoff: ‘Y2J’ Chris Jericho!!

Split reaction.

Eric Bischoff: The Intercontinental Champion, Shelton Benjamin!!

Great pop.

Eric Bischoff: ‘The Heartbreak Kid,’ Shawn Michaels!!

Another 50/50 reaction.

Eric Bischoff: ‘The Nature Boy,’ Ric Flair!!

WOOOOO – great pop.

Eric Bischoff: ‘The Game,’ Triple H!!

Crowd boos.

Eric Bischoff: And the man, who at the Royal Rumble, was the runner up if it wasn’t for John Cena … ‘The Animal’ Batista!!

Huge pop, as the list of men involved in the tournament seems to be rather epic.

Eric Bischoff: Now, you may have noticed that the man who had lost to the World Heavyweight Champion, Randy Orton (cheers) Edge, is not involved in this tournament. Well that is because, I have not given him the right to be in the tournament, because he had his shot, and couldn’t get it done.

Some boos from the crowd from the Edge marks in attendance.

Eric Bischoff: BUT! Next week, when RAW comes to you from the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan … RAW’s main event, will be a Royal Rumble Rematch, pitting Edge, against Randy Orton – for the WORLD – HEAVYWEIGHT – TITLE!!

Great pop, as the match last night was marvelous, and the chance to se it on free television may be amazing.

Eric Bischoff: Now, if you will excuse me –

“So, you think you’re untouchable???”

*BASIC THUGANOMICS* A SURRRRRGING reaction filters into the HP Pavilion, AS JOHN CENA IS IN THE BUILDING!! Cena livens up himself and the crowd as he appears on stage, firing off the intensity that has made him a bright star in this industry that he has developed into. In the ring, Eric Bischoff cracks a smile, knowing this may be a large step forward in the ‘bidding war’ for Cena’s title match at WrestleMania.

Jim Ross: MY GOD KING, JOHN CENA IS ON RAW!!!

Jerry Lawler: I don’t believe what I’m seeing!!

Jim Ross: This may be the dandiest thing I’ve ever laid eyes on! John Cena, SmackDown’s United States Champion – on RAW!! Could this mean it, King? Could it mean it??

Jerry Lawler: This could be too good to be true!

Cena steps inside the ropes, with overwhelming cheers coming out from the crowd. A bright smile comes over his face, as he pulls a microphone out of his pocket, flips it up, and brings it up to his lips.

John Cena: YO – YO – YO – YO – YO – YO!!!!

BIG pop.

John Cena: Did I surprise most of you?? Because from the looks of it, ‘The Champ’ has shocked the world for the second night in a row baby!!

Another big pop, as Cena seems to have COMPLETE control of the crowd.

John Cena: I mean, I mean last night … (CENA chants)

Cena must pause, as the chants are becoming TOO overwhelming.

John Cena: Last night at the Rumble, I’ll be the first to admit it. I came up short. (Crowd boos) I came up short against John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield, and didn’t accomplish what I set out to do. But I was unaware, unaware that I’d have another chance to once again get that shot. And after I was given it … The Doctor was in the house, and I whooped more ass than you could imagine!

More cheers.

John Cena: ‘The Champ’ shocked the world … and came out as number twenty-seven, and then took out the Tag Champs and the Deadman … in a matter of seconds

… and then it was about survival, survival of the fittest … and I proved I was the one who wouldn’t back down and wouldn’t quit it

… and after the dust settled, after the smoke cleared … one man was standing … and left another man feared

… feared that his illustrious title reign would come to an end, or maybe … maybe that one man standing, would come to a new home … (Crowd cheers) a new home, with new faces and a great champion of their own

… whatever it may be, whoever it may be, The Doctor has something to say … if you want some, come get some – anytime … any day …

More and more cheers, as Cena’s spit is done. Eric Bischoff looks very pleased on the other side of the ring.

Eric Bischoff: Well … John Cena, I’m glad that you’ve come to your senses, and you have decided to choose –

John Cena: Hold the phone, hold the phone, hold the phone!!!

Cheers.

John Cena: Nobody ever said that I had made my decision yet. (Boos) My boss said I have until Thursday night to make my decision. And I will be making it then, not tonight.

Some boos from the crowd, as some were expecting him to announce it tonight after appearing on RAW.

John Cena: But for right now … I’ve got a message for you, Eric Bischoff. And it’s coming … (holds up his hand) in five … four … (drops pinky finger) … three … (drops index finger) … two … (drops ring finger) … one … (drops thumb) …

Cena waves his middle finger in front of his face, giving Bischoff the ULTIMATE use of sign language, BEFORE CENA PULLS THE GM UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS!!! The crowd is buzzing, as they reach their feet, while the US Champion walks around the ring carrying him, and then stand in the middle – AND THROWS HIM OFF – DRIVING HIM DOWN – AND PLANTING HIM WITH AN F-U!!! Cena throws up his fists as he clacks them together making the double horns, as he leaves the ring to his music.

Jim Ross: F-U!! AN F-U – to Eric Bischoff!! Oh my!!

Jerry Lawler: This isn’t a very good way to welcome yourself to RAW John!!!

Jim Ross: Well King he isn’t officially RAW just yet. He himself said that this Thursday night on SmackDown, he’ll be making his announcement as to what brand’s champion he will be facing. And I’m sure millions of fans will be watching that moment, and I know I will be, as it should be a monumental moment in the history of the company, as one of the biggest rising stars in this industry will decide between RAW’s champion, and SmackDown’s champion.

(Commercial Break)

Match 1: Road to WrestleMania 21 Quarterfinal Match
Shelton Benjamin vs. Shawn Michaels
Two of RAW’s finest start off what should be an exciting tournament to determine a number one contender for either Randy Orton or Edge at The Granddaddy of Them All, WrestleMania 21. Michaels, an experienced vet has that advantage over the much younger ‘rookie’ to the grand stage Shelton Benjamin. Chain wrestling begins this match, with Michaels using his trademark catch-as-catch-can style, while Benjamin’s youthfulness begins to play a role as it helps him in the speed and agility categories. Michaels becomes burnt out easily in the opening of the match, and Benjamin is able to ground him on the canvas, keeping a front face lock synched in, showing the skills that made him an All-American at the University of Minnesota.

Michaels however bides out of it and gets the action to the outside. After throwing Benjamin out of the ring, Michaels heads onto the apron and slingshots himself onto the top rope, and in vintage HBK fashion – FLIES THROUGH THE AIR SPLASHING ONTO BENJAMIN WITH AN ASAI MOONSAULT!! A large pop is created after the death-defying move from Michaels, which was something unseen from him in YEARS. HBK continues the onslaught, clubbing on Shelton’s back as he was getting up with the announce table as his assistant to do so, and lights him up with a chop to the chest (of course gathering a WOOOOO).

The action spills back inside the ring, with Michaels picking things up and gaining the momentum on his side. After hitting a flying forearm, Michaels kips up, and then heads to the corner. He begins to tune up the band, as the crowd is getting behind him, while 50 percent of the crowd also goes with the Intercontinental Champion, who is struggling up to his feet. The Showstopper is getting frustrated, and lunges ahead shooting his leg up – HITTING SWEET – NO! BENJAMIN DUCKS, FIGHTS AND REACHES UNDERNEATH – GRABBING HIS LEGS – PULLING HIM DOWN, AND ROLLING HIM UP!!! 1 … 2 … 3 …!!! BENJAMIN HAS UPSET SHAWN MICHAELS!!!
Winner: Shelton Benjamin at 12:39. Shelton Benjamin Advances to the Semi-Finals

BENJAMIN PULLS ANOTHER UPSET!! Almost a year after upsetting Triple H on his first night on RAW, and after upsetting Ric Flair at Backlash, SHELTON HAS DONE IT AGAIN – THIS TIME WITH THE LEGENDARY HEARTBREAK KID SHAWN MICHAELS!! In jubilation Benjamin jumps up and down outside of the ring after scurrying out as soon as the referee’s hand hit the mat for the third time.

Jim Ross: Oh my God!! Oh my God!! Shelton Benjamin, has just upset Shawn Michaels!!

Jerry Lawler: WHAT!?

Jim Ross: It only took an evasion, of Sweet Chin Music and a roll-up, and Shelton has done it!! What a match that was, and what a moment for this kid!

Shelton continues his celebration at the top of the ramp, whilst Michaels is looking FURIOUS in the ring. Throwing a temper tantrum at the referee, HBK seems to be reverting to his old form from way back when. The IC Champion raises his title high as he heads backstage, now just two matches away from realizing the dream of a lifetime – to compete in the WrestleMania 21 Main Event.

(Commercial Break)

Replay of the SHOCKING events that just transpired, with Shelton Benjamin shocking the world once again and defeating Shawn Michaels in the first quarterfinal match.

Jim Ross: Well King Shawn Michaels may be disappointed but at this point now there’s nothing anyone can do about it.

Jerry Lawler: Well as we learned last night at the Royal Rumble Shawn Michaels might have more things to worry about than losing the match that he was just competing in JR.

Jim Ross: Well yes no doubt about it King. Ladies and gentlemen last night at the Royal Rumble, Shawn Michaels was involved in a bit of controversy, in regards to SmackDown superstar Eddie Guerrero. If you missed it we have the exclusive footage, which we will show later on tonight in the broadcast. But here’s a look at the current brackets of the Road to WrestleMania 21 Tournament, after the first match:

Shelton Benjamin vs. Shawn Michaels ----Shelton Benjamin
Triple H vs. Christian ----
Kane vs. Batista----
Ric Flair vs. Chris Jericho ----

Jerry Lawler: Well our main event is going to be a heck of a main event when ‘The Game’ Triple H takes on Christian, and you know ‘The Game’ is probably still steaming from being eliminated by his former partner Batista.

Jim Ross: Another big development at the Royal Rumble last night, yes Batista is no longer with Evolution. And for Christian’s sake I hope he brings everything he’s got, because ‘The Cerebral Assassin’ will show no remorse and when he’s mad, you don’t wanna be staring at him from the other side of the ring.

Going backstage …

We see RANDY ORTON in his locker room, unprepared to wrestle obviously as he has the night off. Todd Grisham comes into view.

Todd Grisham: Randy Orton, I’d just like to get your thoughts on the eight man tournament going on here on RAW, and also the possibility of facing John Cena at WrestleMania. Could you please give your thoughts?

Randy Orton: Todd … listen. You know as well as I do that I am the best that this show has to offer. I am slowly becoming a legend in my own mind, as well as in the minds of these people. And last night I proved that I can withstand anything that comes in my way. Whether it be a hungry challenger, in Edge. Whether it be, a boot from Tomko, whether it be …

Orton stops talking, as he gets up, and EDGE has arrived in his locker room.

Edge: (Chomping on gum) You might wanna eat those words Randy … cause next week none of it is gonna matter. And it’s all gonna come to an end for you, because I, will be the World Heavyweight Champion, something I’ve deserved to be more than anyone else on this damn show. (Grits teeth) And there’s not a damn thing you can do about it.

Boos swirl, as Orton comes takes his suit jacket off, and steps forward.

Randy Orton: That right???

Edge: (Nods) Oh yeah. Oh yeah Randy, so you had better hold on to your precious title for as long as you can. Because by the end of next week, it’s gonna be mine.

Randy Orton: (Gritting teeth) Well we’re just gonna have to see about that …

Cutting out to the ring …

Match 2: Non-Title Singles Match
Trish Stratus vs. Victoria
Stemming from last week’s shocking pin of the Women’s Champion, Victoria gets her shot at the dominant diva – but in non-title action. To Trish’s request, the match was not made for a title, and one would think if Victoria were to win the match, she’d get a title shot in the near future. The match starts off solidly being it features two divas who actually know what they’re doing in the ring, and not trendy eye candy. The Women’s Champion never gets in the driver’s seat in the beginning of the match as the fiery challenger overworks her and gains a lot of momentum from the opening bell into the three minute mark. Stratus however countered an Irish whip to the ropes, and powerslammed Vicky to the mat as she came off the ropes.

The 6-Time Women’s Champion begins to kick it up a notch, keeping Victoria on the defensive for the next few minutes and all looked lost for the former Women’s Champion. Stratus however was a bit too cocky with a sleeper hold, not maintaining the amount of pressure she should have had, and Vicky freed herself, and STUNNED the Champion!! She stood up, and dropkicked the Women’s Champion down on the mat, and went for a cover – but Trish got her shoulder up. Victoria kept it going, until Trish countered a right hand, and leveled her with a kick to the ribs. Vicky held the area in pain, as she staggered around – INTO A CHICK KICK FROM THE WOMEN’S CHAMPION!! Trish slowly dropped to her knees, and hooked both legs, and picked up the victory proving what she’s worth here on RAW.
Winner: Trish Stratus at 7:45.

Trish smiles as she gets up, and brushes her hair away as she has her hand raised high. She walks over Victoria, and puts her boot on her chest and raises her arms up, “proclaiming” victory on her. She is handed her Women’s Championship, which she taunts Vicky with, as she leaves the ring.

Jim Ross: Well another notch in the belt for our Women’s Champion King. And at the very least another one has bitten the dust.

Jerry Lawler: Ooh la la JR, Trish Stratus is ever so dominant – and ever so delightful to look at.

Jim Ross: Well while King gawks at the Women’s Champion, ladies and gentlemen up next, (Graphic appears on screen) our second Road to WrestleMania Tournament Match will take place, as Chris Jericho takes on ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair. And immediately following the break, we will play exclusive footage of what went down at last night’s Royal Rumble Pay-Per-View, involving Triple H and Batista. You will not want to miss this.

(Commercial Break)

***

VIDEO FROM LAST NIGHT:

The crowd is becoming unglued, as Evolution seems to be exploding before our very eyes! Frustration is being built up, as both men are shaking and yelling – AND BATISTA STRIKES HUNTER!!! HHH falls to the mat after a HUGE RIGHT HAND from Dave, who lets out a long roar, as the crowd is now one hundred percent behind The Animal …

as Triple H then begins to get up. Unrelenting anger comes over him, as he ROLLS out of the ring, not being eliminated, and goes underneath the ring. He then pulls out the SLEDGEHAMMER, and rolls back into the ring. The crowd is booing, as he sneaks up on The Animal, AND GOES TO HIT HIM, BUT BATISTA TURNS AROUND AT THE RIGHT TIME TO SEE IT COMING, AND HITS THE SPINEBUSTER!!!

The crowd goes APE SHIT, as Batista grabs the sledgehammer out of his hand, and the crowd is cheering even more. Batista ponders what to do with it, and then slams it down on the mat, and waits for HHH to get up. Wielding it, he waits in the corner for him to get up …


Triple H then finally gets up, AND DAVE RUNS OVER AND SWINGS LOW WITH THE SLEDGEHAMMER HITTING THE GAME IN THE RIBS!! The crowd is still going ape shit, as he then tosses the hammer out of the ring, and sees The Game staggering away. He gets up, and Batista comes charging over and CLOTHESLINES HIM OUT OF THE RING!!!

ELIMINATION #26: Triple H by Batista at 53:07

***

Jim Ross: Well there it was ladies and gentlemen, Batista’s surprising leave of Evolution last night at the Royal Rumble, and King Batista may likely be a force to be reckoned with in this tournament.

Jerry Lawler: Well he will be in action later on tonight, but right now it’s time for one of Batista’s former allies to go into battle – in ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair.

Match 3: Road to WrestleMania 21 Quarterfinal Match
Chris Jericho vs. Ric Flair
RAW keeps it rolling with high-quality Pay-Per-View like matches, this bein the second of four quarterfinal matches scheduled for tonight. Flair is not alongside ‘The Game,’ which is noted by the announcers as a bit of a shock to them. Jericho, fresh off his loss last night against Shelton Benjamin, a man who came up big in his quarterfinal match earlier in the night against Shawn Michaels, wants to get back on the right track in this match, to possibly headline WrestleMania for the second time in four years. A lock up begins this match, and leads to Jericho getting a small advantage, but switches over to Flair’s control due to his famed ‘dirty’ tactics.

Flair’s tide remains unturned as the match reaches the five minute mark. Flair goes for an early attempt at the Figure Four, but Jericho kicks out of it, and then connects with a dropkick barreling Naitch out of the ring and to the floor. Y2J waits for him to reach his feet, and moments later, Jericho jumps onto the middle rope, and hits another dropkick on Flair who was coming up on the apron. The King of the World kept his momentum going, and went for a Lionsault – AND CONNECTED!! Going for the pin, Flair gets his shoulder up at the LAST second, pulling many ‘OOOOOOs’ from the crowd and causes Jericho to get very frustrated in himself that he couldn’t get the pinfall there. Flair suddenly surprises him with a small package as he gets up and approaches him, but Jericho kicks out of it!

After both men got up to their feet, an exchange of rights followed. Ric went for a swing, but Jericho went underneath and locked in a Full Nelson, before dropping him with the Break Down!! Chris went for the pin, but Flair willed on and kicked out!! Chris got himself back up, and was getting very disappointed. He dragged Ric up to his feet, and threw two rights at him, before going for a suplex. Flair however countered, before Jericho went for it again – only to have Flair counter again. Chris kneed him in the sternum, before slamming on his back with his forearm, before once again going for a suplex – and hits it!! Y2J did not go for the pin however and instead headed up to the top rope. He watched as Ric got up, and eyed Flair as he kept stirring.

Jericho went up to a standing position on the top rope, and leapt off going for a dropkick, but Ric dodged it!! Jericho favored his knees, and then Flair went over, and locked in the Figure Four Leg Lock!!! Most of the crowd cheered, as there were many from Flair Country attending RAW tonight it seems. Ric has it applied dead center in the middle of the ring, and Jericho has nowhere to go!!! He tries to reverse the pressure, but Ric keeps him tied down. With nowhere to go period, Jericho has no choice – BUT TO SUCCUMB TO THE PRESSURE AND TAP OUT!!!
Winner: Ric Flair at 11:21. Ric Flair Advances to the Semifinals.

Flair releases the hold, and gets his hand raised, as many ‘WOOOOOOOS’ are heard around the HP Pavilion, as he will now face the winner of the Batista – Kane match scheduled for later tonight.

Jim Ross: Well Chris Jericho’s quest to headline WrestleMania once again has been snuffed out this time by ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair, who will now be facing the winner of the match featuring Kane and ‘The Animal’ Batista King.

Jerry Lawler: Well either way Ric Flair may be in some trouble there. But you gota give it up to him for winning the match tonight.

Shelton Benjamin vs. Shawn Michaels ----Shelton Benjamin
Triple H vs. Christian ----
Kane vs. Batista----
Ric Flair vs. Chris Jericho ----Ric Flair

Backstage, Shawn Michaels distressed, seems to be heading for the ring …

(Commercial Break)

We return, and Michaels is standing in the ring, with a very tasteless look in his eyes.

Shawn Michaels: I got a few things to get off my chest, so if you’ll excuse me … (Crowd boos) if you’ll excuse me … let me get them off in the best possible way.

Surprising heat for HBK.

Shawn Michaels: First of all … I’d like to say that earlier on tonight, Shelton Benjamin you got (Grits teeth together) lucky. You got lucky that HBK was off of his game, and wasn’t fully prepared to face you one on one tonight in the Road to WrestleMania Tournament. Come to Shawn Michaels any other time, and you’ll be the one getting your shoulders pinned to the mat.

Michaels still looks furious to say the least.

Shawn Michaels: And quite honestly, for the last 24 hours I haven’t really been in the mood to be the self-indulging ‘good-guy’ that I always have been, and it’s because of one man.

Cheers, as they know who Michaels is making relevance to.

Shawn Michaels: One man has created all of the problems that revolve around my life currently. One man has created a mass uncharacteristic attitude change that yours truly hasn’t experienced in almost ten years … and I’m starting to like it again.

Mixed reaction.

Shawn Michaels: As one says, you can’t hide your true inner feelings for an eternity. I’m sick and tired of being revered as the guy that went soft. I don’t wanna be known for that. I wanna be known for being the single greatest competitor in the history of this industry. I want to be known, as ‘Mister WrestleMania.’

Cheers, as Michaels seems to be cutting a ‘heel-style’ promo now.

Shawn Michaels: And the man that is responsible … for all of the actions that take place from here on out … (Cheers) … … … … … (Eddie chants) … … … is Eddie … Guerrero …

Big pop.

Shawn Michaels: Eddie, 24 hours ago … you decided to take actions by myself, to a whole other level. You came in through the crowd, came into the ring, and attacked me from the back with a steel chair. (Mixed reaction) You then threw me over the top rope, eliminating me despite the fact that I had eliminated you prior to that. I had only done what you would have done if yourself and I switched roles … and Eddie you know it, I know it – it’s a fact.

Michaels doesn’t seem to be ready to stop, as a mixed reaction continues to filter in.

Shawn Michaels: It’s a fact, because Eddie your family runs like that. Lying … cheating … stealing, it’s all about that for you and your family isn’t it?? I mean, it’s only in your theme song, it has to be what it’s all about for the Guerreros, right?? (‘Welcoming’ in the crowd) You hear it each week, (Mocking) ‘I LIE! I CHEAT! I STEAL! I LIE! I CHEAT! I STEAL! YOO!!’

Some laughs filter through, while some boo the mocking of Eddie.

Shawn Michaels: Whatever it is Eddie … it’s what you would have done, had you been in position to do it. And really Eddie, if you were that fed up with me, all ya had to do was confront me in the back after the match. You didn’t have to come in through the crowd by surprise, and attack me from BEHIND, and take me out of the Royal Rumble Match in the process. But, ya did. And Eddie, lemme tell ya something – that was a mistake.

Mixed reaction.

Shawn Michaels: And Eddie …. Payback … is a bitch.

Michaels’ music hits, as a smile comes voer his face. He leaves the ring, while the crowd maintains the split reaction it’s got going on.

Jim Ross: One can only wonder what Shawn Michaels has in mind for his definition of ‘payback’ King.

Jerry Lawler Well you and I both know from experience, that Shawn Michaels when he’s nasty – there isn’t a man that can touch him in or out of the ring. And right now that attitude he was once revered for seems to be rearing its ugly head once again.

Jim Ross: Well if Michaels keeps this up, I ma not want to be Eddie Guerrero at this point.

Backstage … in Ric Flair’s locker room, Triple H stands looking much unfocused.

Ric Flair: Hunter, relax. You don’t have to worry about a thing, when it comes to Dave Batista. (Cheers) Batista, he’s not gonna be anywhere near us for the rest of the night. Just, focus …

Triple H: Ric, you know damn well as I do, it’s not that. It’s the fact, that he stabbed the both of us in the back last night when he eliminated me from the Royal Rumble. He broke the damn code, that the three of us had planned for almost a month. Batista had better get his ass in gear, and return to where he belongs. Otherwise, he’s in for it dammit.

Hunter begins pacing, while Flair attempts to help him cool off.

Ric Flair: Whoa – whoa – whoa. Hunter, chill out. Batista, he’s not even going to get through the first round. Did you see his opponent? It’s Kane. Kane’s twice the size of Batista, ‘Big Dave’ won’t be looking big tonight.

HHH still paces, and then halts himself.

Triple H: Batista won’t look so big … but if he gets passed him … and then dares to ry and get past you … he’s gonna look smaller than dust …

Fade …

(Commercial Break)

Match 4: Tag Team Match
William Regal & Eugene vs. Simon Dean & Maven
Filler-material match, pitting two decent teams against one another. The young and talented Maven began the match against Eugene, whose comedic skills played off well with the crowd as he seemed to be in the driver’s seat. Simon and Maven however got the advantage overpowering RAW’s most beloved superstar with double team work, that William Regal could never do anything about. However, the referee caught on to the ‘illegal’ double-teaming from Maven and Dean, and when doing so, this gave Regal the opportunity to play a factor – by coming into the match from a tag!! Regal spen thte next few minutes getting control, and won the match after locking the Regal Stretch, and Eugene would knock Dean off the apron, with Maven being the legal man!!!
Winners: William Regal & Eugene at 6:32.

Regal and Eugene celebrate in the ring, after picking up the victory. The crowd cheers as the pin is made, and we see Eugene running around the ring in his trademark fashion with his arms panned out to the side.

Jim Ross: The former Tag Team Champions pick up a solid victory there King. I’m impressed with their ability to work as a team despite not doing it for awhile.

Jerry Lawler: Well Eugene should have other things on his mind, especially screwing many out of the Royal Rumble Match by giving his entry to John Cena.

Jim Ross: Well some may have an indifference to your opinion King, especially Cena himself.

Speaking of the devil, John Cena is walking through a corridor … he passes a couple of workers, before he stops. He looks to his right, and sees a locker room, with ‘Randy Orton’ written on it. The crowd cheers, as Cena goes to open the door – but Orton walks out!! The crowd roars, as for the first time these young superstars look into each others eyes in a stare down.

Randy Orton: You know … when you see the real thing for the first time … it really is somethin’ great isn’t it???


John Cena: Depends what you’re talking about … champ.

Randy Orton: What I mean is John, when you look at me up close and personal, you realize that there is nothing better. And there is nothing greater than me. And I guarantee this won’t be the last time that our paths cross. But at WrestleMania, if you do decide to come to RAW, and face me for this (looks at the World Title) … this World … Heavyweight … Title … I’m sorry … but destiny … cannot be stopped.

Cena smirks, as the crowd cheers.

John Cena: Randy … let me tell you something. I’ve been doubted, I’ve been counted out, hell I’ve been taken out of the equation before the equation’s even been written. But now I’m hungry, I’m hungry for this (puts finger on the title; cheers) I’m hungry, for the WWE Championship – I’m hungry for championship gold.

Cheers, as Cena adjusts his cap.

John Cena: And if I do … decide to come to RAW … it’ll be my pleasure, to face you at WrestleMania … and take the World Heavyweight Title … and change the face of this industry, by becoming the most indifferent champion, in wrestling history.

Randy steps up.

Randy Orton: Oh really??

John Cena: (Nodding) Yeah … really …

Randy Orton: Well then … I guess we’re gonna have to wait ‘til WrestleMania … to figure that out …

Orton and Cena don’t say another word, as their eyes cross again, as another intense stare down starts up again. The crowd is loathing it all, as the pre-WM hype continues …

… and we now come inside Eric Bischoff’s office. He is talking with The Coach.

Eric Bischoff: See, THAT is why RAW is superior. You can’t get those kinds of stare downs and intense moments on SmackDown.

Jonathan Coachman: I completely agree with you Mr. Bischoff. John Cena should definitely make the right move and come to RAW.

Knock on the door.

Eric Bischoff: Come in.

Muhammad Hassan comes in to a lot of heat from the crowd who watch on the titan tron, along with Khosrow Daivari.

Eric Bischoff: Yes Muhammad … how can I help you? (Slight roll of eyes)

Muhammad Hassan: Eric, I demand respect; nothing hard, really. All I want is a little respect around here, and I would not be the man that I am. But for some reason, some REASON, I’ve been left out of this Road to WrestleMania Tournament. I am undefeated here on RAW, I am controversial, I bring ratings, and I want respect!!

Boos from the crowd.

Muhammad Hassan: So I’d like to know why I was left out of this tournament, and I’d like to know why I was not treated with respect last night, when I was beaten down by every superstar in the Royal Rumble. It’s every man for himself – not beat up the real good guy on RAW.

Eric Bischoff: Muhammad … I can’t answer the second question. That’s the superstar’s decision, to act in that way. But to answer your first question, Muhammad, I wanted to give everybody what they REALLY want to see. And judging from the way they react to you, they don’t want to see you.

Muhammad Hassan: They don’t treat me with respect. They’re intolerant, despicable, jackasses (boos from the crowd) who wouldn’t know the first thing about knowing what they want to see. I’m the next big thing here in the WWE. I have the talent, the charisma, the skills – and I’m being held back.

Eric Bischoff: Muhammad, I don’t want to deal with this. This is your problem, so YOU have to figure it out for yourself. If you want to make an impact here on RAW – be my guest. If you want to show me WHY you should be in the tournament – be my guest. Just don’t bother me, I have enough problems right now … trying to get John Cena here on RAW.

Cheers; Muhammad looks a bit pleased.

Muhammad Hassan: Thank you Mr. Bischoff, for giving me the opportunity – to make an impact.

Hassan leaves the room, as Coach and Bischoff look over. Daivari follows him out, as the GM and his ‘assistant’ look a bit confused.

(Commercial Break)

***

WRESTLEMANIA GOES HOLLYWOOD – 62 DAYS

***

Match 5: Road to WrestleMania 21 Tournament Quarterfinal Match
Kane vs. Batista
As some would expect, in the ‘biggest’ quarterfinal match the action is fairly slow-paced and consisted more of grounding and pounding rather than high-octane fast-paced wrestling. Batista is the clear crowd favorite, after leaving Evolution last night, while Kane is received well by the crowd, but The Animal is clearly the man who’s more over. In the beginning of the match, this showed as he DOMINATED The Big Red Machine from the opening bell, hitting big moves on him and displaying the raw amount of power (no pun intended) that made him a force to be reckoned with while he was in Evolution. Now on his own, his ability should shine now, and was flourishing in this match.

Batista kept it up as the action went to the outside. No signs of life were shown by Kane, who was clearly being overworked as he could not hit a move on The Animal. Throughout the course of the match, Batista played to the crowd often. This came out to bite him, as while doing so, Kane who was in the announce table, got up and booted him as he turned around from playing to the crowd. This began The Big Red Machine’s momentum carrying, as from then on control was shifted to his favor. Kane’s big-man style offense played a key role from then on as he was in clear control in the middle of the ring using many of his signature ‘big man’ moves.

Batista began fighting back as time quickly approached the ten minute mark, but Kane continually stopped him dead in his tracks. It wasn’t until a Chokeslam attempt, that Batista would find a way back into the match. Kane had him clutched by his neck, but Batista kicked him low in the stomach, and came off the ropes hitting a Spear!! Batista went for the pin, but Kane kicked out dominantly, pushing the 300 plus pounder off of him and to the other side of the ring! Kane stirred, as Batista did as well, and Dave went for the Batista Bomb, but Kane back dropped him!! Big Dave got up, and was caught by the hand of The Big Red Machine, who lifted him high and dropped him with the Chokeslam!!!

Kane then went for the pin, but BATISTA KICKED OUT~!!! The crowd surged as Batista’s will inside of him kept fighting on, and left Kane stunned. Kane brought him up for another Chokeslam, but Batista fought out of it and shoved him to the corner. Kane came staggering out, and Batista lifted him up and back dropped him to the canvas. The crowd popped as The Animal came charging ahead hitting a clothesline on the seven-footer. He called for him to get up, and when he did, Batista kicked him in the gut, scooped him up onto his shoulders, and ran towards the center of the ring and delivered a powerslam!! The Animal played up to the crowd once again, as he then bent down in the corner, awaiting Kane to get up and did not go for the pin.

Instead Batista approached a now standing Kane, and lifted him up high and dropped him with the Spinebuster!!! Big Dave got up and shook the ropes, a la Ultimate Warrior, and then a scary look came over his face. With his eyes nearly bulging out, Batista held onto his head, and then slammed down on the mat with his hands and let out a roar. The crowd cheered enormously, as The Animal then pulled Kane up between his legs, and powerfully pulled him up, and drove him back down with the Batista Bomb!! Batista rolled over and hooked the legs, getting the advance to the Semifinals!!
Winner: Batista at 13:35. Batista Advances to the Semifinals.

Batista celebrates in the ring getting his hand raised, and darts to the corner and extends his arms out while up on the middle rope in the corner. Kane is still on the ground, as his chances of main eventing WrestleMania has been eliminated by one of the hottest commodities in the industry today.

Jim Ross: And Batista has won!! Batista will now move on to face ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair next week in Japan! Oh my!!

Jerry Lawler: I can’t believe this!! Kane had this match won so many times, but Batista is the one to advance to the Semifinals! And as you said JR, he’s going to face Ric Flair! What a match that’s gonna be next week.

Jim Ross: Indeed King it should be an explosive atmosphere next week in Japan, when The Animal takes on The Nature Boy in the Semifinals of the Road to WrestleMania Tournament.

Going backstage … to Todd Grisham.

Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentlemen, Todd Grisham here and standing next to me is the man who up next will take part in the final quarterfinal match of the Road to WrestleMania Tournament, and that man is Christian. (Cheers) Christian this is a chance of a lifetime what are your thoughts going into this match against none other than ‘The Game’ Triple H?

Christian: Todd … first of all, that was a crappy introduction. Honestly, couldn’t you think of any better way of introducing the man who has more charisma than any other chump on this show??? I mean, really, you could’ve done it like this … Ladies and gentlemen, I’m Todd Grisham, a mere mortal to the man that I am standing next to … the undoubtedly good looking … flashy … charismatic … more superior to my well being … Captain Charisma … Christian, how are you going into this match where you will more than likely proceed to beat the crap out of the biggest nose in the WWE – literally.

Cheers for the comedic skills of Captain Charisma.

Christian: And to answer that question, I’m feeling great. Last night, yeah it didn’t go so well for me. But it doesn’t matter, because I’ve got another chance. And I’m not letting that chance go. Ah-ah, no way. I’m seizing the moment tonight, and I couldn’t give a crap if Triple H was standing in my way.

Cheers.

Christian: I mean, really. This guy’s been hogging the spotlight that deserves to be shone on me and has deserved to have been shone on me for years. Think about it. He beat Bill Goldberg (Mixed reaction) please, that guy could beat himself. He beat Randy Orton, (BIG pop) big whoop. He’s a crappy champion, and that’ll prove itself to be true next week. But he’s never faced me, and he’s never beat me either.

More cheers, as Christian seems to be on the ball tonight.

Christian: Hunter, quite simply, don’t underestimate me. I’ve got more gall to prove what I’ve wanted to prove for the last several years. And there isn’t a damn … what the hell are you doing here??

Edge comes into view.

Edge: Just wanted to stop by … wish you luck before your “big match” (quotes with his fingers as he talks) against Hunter Christian. What, I can’t do that?? I mean, we’ve traveled the road together for years and just because we had a couple of ego problems a few years back, does that mean I can’t wish you luck??? Talk about being rude.

Christian: Look Edge, I don’t need luck. And as for what you also said … the past is past Edge … so why not let bygones … be bygones … (Cheers) and lets bury the hatchet right here and now.

MASSIVE pop, as a reuniting of E&C would cause some to faint. Christian extends his hand.

Edge: (Raises eyebrows) Y’know … the more I think about it, we were the best damn thing to hit the Tag Team Division in years weren’t we??

Christian: Oh we ruled … we didn’t let anyone past us … and we sure as hell didn’t let chumps beat us, ever.

Edge: Then you know what … … … … (shakes hand; MASSIVE pop) the past is past.

Christian and Edge smirk, as the camera fades …

(Commercial Break)

Main Event: Road to WrestleMania 21 Quarterfinal Match
Triple H vs. Christian w/ Tyson Tomko
As one would expect, this match turns out to be a pretty good one being it the first encounter between the two. Going from bell to bell the two great competitors go at it simply vying for the shot at the World Heavyweight Title at WrestleMania 21. Triple H’s need for the title and Christian’s wanting for championship gold is depicted throughout the match as it tells a decent story as well. For the opening minute or two, much of the action consisted of a lock up that went around the entire ring, and Christian much to the surprise of most in the crowd found himself with the control on his side. Captain Charisma seemed to have much of his ‘Peeps’ behind him tonight, which helped him even greater as time passed in the match.

Tomko was not really much of a benefactor as The Problem Solver did not have many problems to solve . Moving forward Christian’s advantage was maintained, and many early near falls were made but Christian could never keep The Game’s shoulders down. Christian brought him up, and went for an early Unprettier, but The Cerebral Assassin maneuvered out of it and pushed him into the corner. This gave him some time as Christian fell hard in the corner, and Tomko immediately rushed to his age. HHH then went over, and slammed his forearm on his back as he was getting up, and then sent him to the ropes. Christian countered though, and bent down, but Triple H stopped dead center in the ring, and dropped his face down on his knee!

Christian staggered, as Trips then ran over and clotheslined him over the ring. Many boos echoed around the arena, but The Game didn’t seem to give a damn. He exited the ring, and pursued Christian, hitting numerous rights and lefts on the outside. He threw him back inside the ring, and went for the pin – but Christian kicked out! The crowd popped as Triple H disappointingly looked down at his opponent – his stepping stone to the main event at WrestleMania – his adversary, and picked him up and began pummeling him on the way to the corner. The Game was showing no remorse, until Christian raked his eyes – and charged ahead planting his face on the ground with a facebuster! Christian went to secure the pin, but Triple H jarred out of it before he could get the count of 3.

Christian began getting distraught, as he pulled him up and whipped him to the ropes. Triple H rebounded, and went for a clothesline – at the same time Christian would!! Both men went crashing down onto the mat, after hitting clotheslines on each other, and the crowd began eating all of it up. The referee started a ten count, which both men would respond to at the count of seven. Christian hit a forceful chop across the chest of The Game, who came back with a right hand. Christian followed it with another chop, and HHH hit another right hand. This exchange kept going, until Christian blocked a right hand, and hit one of his own. He went with a kick to the gut, and then swung him around and drove him down with a neckbreaker!!

Christian slowly got back up, and headed u