NO MERCY
Live from Chicago, Illinois
*** PYRO *** PYRO *** PYRO *** PYRO *** PYRO *** PYRO *** PYRO *** PYRO ***
The camera pans around the arena showing the cheering, wild WWE Universe, pumped up for the No Mercy pay-per-view, signs held aloft as Chicago goes mad for the WWE!
MICHAEL COLE
Welcome to Chicago, Illinois, tonight we are in the Windy City for a night of drama, intensity, championships and, most of all, No Mercy. Hello again, everybody, I’m Michael Cole, sitting with me is my Raw broadcast colleague, Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler and from Smackdown, Matt Striker.
MATT STRIKER
And what a night it is going to be, Michael, five titles, a number one contender spot and an entire career all on the line in a mixture of street fighting, caskets and no doubt, laptops!
JERRY LAWLER
In our main event tonight, the Viper Randy Orton will defend his WWE Title for the first time against the former champion, Sheamus, in a Street Fight. Oh my word, Cole, can you imagine the damage that Sheamus is capable of in a Street Fight?
MICHAEL COLE
It’s sure to be an interesting night, King, feuds filled with bad blood and animosity. Let’s head to the ring to get the night started.
The noise level in the arena drops a moment before ...
JERRY LAWLER
What is he doing here tonight? He hasn’t got a match, has he Cole?
MICHAEL COLE
He hasn’t as far as I’m aware!
MATT STRIKER
He’s the nine-time World Champion, guys, he has the right to turn up on any WWE programme he wants, whenever he wants! Surely he deserves that right by now?
Edge marches to the ring, dressed ready for action, climbs into the ring and takes a microphone from the time keepers. He stands centre of the ring and prepares to address the WWE Universe.
EDGE
You’re probably wondering why I’m here? I’m here for my match. I am the Rated ‘R’ Superstar, I am the nine-time World Champion ... no WWE event is complete without me. So, Mr. Anonymous GM ... send out my opponent for tonight.
Edge turns to the stage expectantly waiting for someone to appear ... but nothing happens. He waits and waits ... Then the lights flicker and the e-mail alert sounds through the arena.
MICHAEL COLE
May I have your attention please? I have just received an email from the anonymous Raw General Manager ...
The crowd boo at Michael Cole, intense heat that seems specially reserved just for him! He stands up at the GM laptop ready to speak.
MICHAEL COLE
And I quote ... “Edge. Get out of the ring. You have no match tonight. You may be the nine-time champion, the Rated ‘R’ Superstar and all that but ... I just don’t like ya. You have got no match tonight because you have not earned one. If you don’t leave the ring immediately, I will suspend you indefinitely. If you don’t believe me ... try me!”
Edge grabs at his hair and looks ready to explode. He stares a hole right through Michael Cole and drops to his knees, rolling out of the ring towards the laptop. Edge circles the GM Laptop stand and looks as if he is ready to smash the laptop into pieces ... but he slowly starts to back away and heads back towards the back, looking intense and angry ...
The camera switches backstage where Josh Matthews is waiting.
JOSH MATTHEWS
Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Josh Matthews and I am stood here at the backstage entrance of the arena here in Chicago. I am awaiting the arrival of the Undertaker ... but I haven’t seen him yet. I will let you know as soon as the Undertaker arrives here for his World Title match against his brother, the World Heavyweight Champion, Kane.
The camera heads back into the arena where Justin Roberts is stood in the ring waiting to announce the first match of the evening.
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Ladies and Gentlemen, the following contest is for the US Championship! And it will be a ‘2 out of 3 Falls Match’ ...
MICHAEL COLE
What?!! Who made that decision? That’s completely unfair on the Miz and Alex Riley, King!
JERRY LAWLER
Why is it unfair, Cole? It’s the same for both men, isn’t it?
MICHAEL COLE
Here he comes, here he comes!
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome ... THE MIZ!
The Miz walks out with his smart suit on and carrying his battered, red Money In The Bank briefcase in his hand as he saunters out onto the stage. He smirks as he twirls a microphone in his hand before his music quietens and he can be heard.
THE MIZ
I am the only man in NXT history to mentor a rookie who has become a champion here in the WWE! I was Daniel Bryan’s mentor in NXT Season 1 and – because I am kind-hearted and generous – I decided to allow Daniel Bryan to beat me at Night of Champions and win the US Championship. And now ... I am going to become the first mentor in NXT history to mentor two rookies to titles here in the WWE! Because I’m the Miz .... and I’m AWWWEEEESSSSSOOOMMMMEEEE!!!!
The music restarts and the Miz surveys the arena before waving to the backstage area, beckoning someone out. Out comes Alex Riley, the Miz’ NXT Season 2 rookie, ready for action as he looks to win his first title in the WWE.
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Introducing first, the challenger. Weighing 240 pounds, from Georgetown, Virginia ... ALEX RILEY!
Riley and the Miz enter the ring with Miz telling Riley some last minute instructions. As Riley jumps up and down in determination, Miz leaves the ring and joins the announce team at ringside.
MICHAEL COLE
And the Miz is going to join us for commentary here at ringside, what an honour this is!
MATT STRIKER
Welcome to the announce table, Miz ...
Miz ignores Striker and Lawler but shakes hands with Michael Cole and sits down with his headset on ready ...
THE MIZ
Thanks for the welcome, Michael, are you ready to see Daniel Bryan destroyed by Alex Riley?
MICHAEL COLE
I sure am, it’s about time somebody taught this idiot a lesson in respect. Alex Riley is going to do that and become the US Champion right now!
THE MIZ
I’ve said it from the start – Alex Riley is a much better rookie than Daniel Bryan. He has the attitude, the star quality to make it here in the WWE ... unlike this goof!
JUSTIN ROBERTS
And his opponent, from Aberdeen, Washington, weighing 190 pounds ... he is the US Champion, DANIEL BRYAN!
Daniel Bryan makes his way to the ring with the US Title belt around his waist as he pats it coming down the ramp. He salutes the crowd as he bounces into the ring.
THE MIZ
How can a guy like this exist here in the WWE alongside the likes of me?
JERRY LAWLER
Look, Miz and Cole, this kid has got an awful lot of talent, just because you don’t ...
THE MIZ
... Who the hell are you, Old Man? Times have changed since the 80’s and 90’s and this guy is a complete goof, he wears trunks that an old lady would wear as pants, he doesn’t eat meat, he doesn’t own a TV, he thinks that Star Wars is cool ... He’s not entertaining in the slightest, he is awful. You shut your mouth too, Striker!
MATT STRIKER
Hey, I was just going to suggest that we all calm down a little.
MICHAEL COLE
The Miz is so right as usual and tonight, Alex is going to prove it. Let’s go, A-Ri!
UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP – 2 out of 3 Falls
US Champion Daniel Bryan vs. Alex Riley
Both men circle each other at first, threatening to tie up, before Bryan surprises Riley with a series of quick kicks to the hamstring area. Riley stands in the ropes as Bryan backs off, jumping up and down, waiting for Riley to come back out. Alex Riley recovers and then approaches Daniel Bryan again looking to hit a cheap shot. Bryan ducks out of the way of Riley’s attempted grapple and then hits him with several more kicks to the back of the leg before backing away, a big smile on his face.
Riley looks annoyed and talks to the referee about the kicks. As Bryan approaches to suggest all is fair, Riley takes another cheap shot and this time connects as he sends Bryan to the mat with a clothesline. Riley begins to take advantage with several stomps to Daniel Bryans chest before he lifts the Vegan wrestler to his feet and whips him into the turnbuckle. Riley runs after Bryan and shoulder charges him into the corner before hitting a bulldog. He covers Bryan for the pin, 1 ... 2 ... kick out from Daniel Bryan. Riley lifts up Bryan and powerslams him back to the mat before heading for the corner himself. He looks to drop his knee onto the chest of Bryan but the US Champion moves out of the way and Riley’s knee connects with the mat instead. As Riley gets to his feet gingerly, Bryan delivers a kick to the back of his head that leaves Riley face down on the mat. He rolls him over and goes for the cover, 1 ... 2 ... Alex Riley is not done yet and kicks out. Daniel Bryan steps back and allows Riley to get up slowly ... as he does, Bryan slides behind Riley and lifts him up and back for a perfect German Suplex. He hangs on and repeats the German Suplex twice more, holding into a pin the third time. 1 ... 2 ... Riley just kicks out but it’s looking bleak for the Varsity Villain. Bryan scrambles to the top rope as the crowd cheer him and launches himself off the top rope, a perfect diving headbutt to Alex Riley who is prone on the mat. 1 ... 2 ... 3!
JUSTIN ROBERTS
The winner of the first fall ... DANIEL BRYAN! Both men will now have 30 seconds to recover.
As the 30 seconds is allowed, The Miz throws down his headset and distracts Daniel Bryan by climbing onto the mat. The referee gets between Miz and Daniel Bryan on the ring apron as the two tussle to get to each other. The Miz suddenly drops down as Alex Riley pounces and hits a forearm into the back of Daniel Bryan, taking out the referee as well.
With the referee down on the mat, struggling to clear his head, Alex Riley goes to work on Daniel Bryan with forearms to the back of his head and shoulders. The Miz urges him on from ringside and then slides the Money In The Bank briefcase into the ring ... Riley picks up the briefcase and stands back away from US Champion as he groggily steps up. As Bryan turns around, Riley smashes the briefcase into Bryan’s head and sends him smashing down to the mat. The Miz calmly removes the briefcase and returns to his commentary position as Riley makes the cover. The referee slowly realises that Riley had made the pin and crawls over ... 1 ... ... 2 ... ... Daniel Bryan gets his shoulder up!
THE MIZ
How has he kicked out of that?
MICHAEL COLE
Come on referee, do your job and count to three!
MATT STRIKER
Daniel Bryan is not going to go down without a fight here!
JERRY LAWLER
No way, he is made of tougher stuff than either Alex Riley or you, Miz, realised. He has got the heart of a lion and there is no way that Alex Riley can beat him here tonight!
THE MIZ
Oh yeah, old timer?
Riley grabs Daniel Bryan and launches him into the corner so that his shoulder connects with the steel ringpost. Seething at the referee, Riley complains over and over before going back to work on Bryan. Alex Riley whips Daniel Bryan into the corner and hits him with a high boot that sends Bryan down again. Pinfall attempt ... 1 ... 2 ... Bryan kicks out again. What does Riley have to do to beat this guy? Riley looks confused as he holds Bryan’s head to lift him up a little. Suddenly, Bryan rolls Riley up into a schoolboy pin ... 1 ... 2 ... 3!
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Here is your winner and still United States Champion ... DANIEL BRYAN!
Alex Riley slides out of the ring where he is met by a furious looking Miz who looks annoyed with his NXT Season 2 rookie. The Miz is clearly heard to yell at Riley, ‘Let me show you’ and he slides into the ring with the briefcase again. He stands in the corner waiting for Bryan to get up as the referee tells the Miz to leave ... Daniel Bryan gets to his feet slowly in the corner as the Miz looks to rush him and knock him cold, he swings ... and Jerry Lawler pulls Daniel Bryan out of harm’s way. The Miz stands there looking furiously at King as he holds up Daniel Bryan on the outside of the ring. Michael Cole leaves his seat and goes to confront King with Bryan.
MICHAEL COLE
King, what are you doing? What do you think you are playing at? That’s the Miz you know? You can’t inter ...
Lawler swings and levels Michael Cole with one punch and the crowd roars it’s approval as the Miz makes his way out to the ramp with Alex Riley ... Daniel Bryan has come to and is shaking the hand of Jerry Lawler before summoning for a microphone.
DANIEL BRYAN
Unlucky, guys, I’m still the United States Champion. But I’ll tell you what. I came out here tonight to wrestle three falls ... and that’s what I’m going to do. Either one of you, come back to the ring and face me now for the third fall. Whoever wins the fall will be the United States Champion. What do ya say?
The Miz looks at Riley who stares into the ring. Miz orders him to go for it and fair pushes him into the ring to face Bryan for a third fall. Jerry Lawler stands in the corner of Daniel Bryan leaving Matt Striker who is the only commentator who is both conscious and wearing a headset right now.
MATT STRIKER
Daniel Bryan is putting the US Title on the line again for a third fall. And if Alex Riley wins, he will win the match and be the new champion despite losing the first two falls.
Alex Riley and Daniel Bryan lock up again and Riley tries to take Bryan down with a suplex of his own that connects. With Bryan down, Riley stomps away and the Miz urges him on from the outside. Riley decides to go for the cover ... 1 ... 2 ... Daniel Bryan kicks out and manoeuvres into the LeBell lock! Bryan pulls back the head of Alex Riley as if to snap him in two with his hands locked and no chance for Riley to reach the ropes. With Riley about to tap, Miz slides back into the ring and goes to smash Bryan with the briefcase again. However, Bryan sees him coming and Miz loses control of the case which bounces away. Miz turns to face Bryan who kicks him in the chest, spinning Miz round ... where Jerry Lawler is waiting with the briefcase. Wham! Miz is down and out ... Bryan resumes the LeBell lock on Alex Riley who taps immediately!
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Here is your winner ... the United States Champion, DANIEL BRYAN!
Bryan and King celebrate in the ring with King raising the hand of the US Champion who is holding his title in the other hand. The camera pans round to show Matt Striker sat on his own and Michael Cole groggy at the side of the announce table holding his mouth in pain. The camera then transfers backstage to Todd Grisham who is standing with Kofi Kingston.
TODD GRISHAM
Kofi, last Friday night on Smackdown, you beat Jack Swagger to earn yourself a guaranteed World Title match before the end of 2010. Congratulations. How are you feeling?
KOFI KINGSTON
I’m on top of the world, Todd, I’m absolutely loving life. I have a title match to come, I won hard match on Friday – take nothing away from Jack Swagger, he put up a great fight. And before the end of the year, I will be the new World Heavyweight Champion!
TODD GRISHAM
To do that though, Kofi, you will need to beat either the World Champion, Kane, or his legendary brother, the Undertaker. How can you be so confident that you’ll be champion?
KOFI KINGSTON
I have a huge amount of respect for both those guys, Todd, and it would be an honour to step into the ring with and defeat the Undertaker. I’m just feeling that the time is now mine, I have been working hard for this moment ... It’s time for Kofi Kingston to take off in the WWE! Boom, boom, boom!
The camera returns to the ringside area where Jerry Lawler is sat down beside Matt Striker with Michael Cole looking mutinous beside him. Lawler shrugs his shoulders and smiles but Cole shakes his head.
MICHAEL COLE
I cannot believe what you just did, King, I cannot believe it. Do you know who I am? I am the voice of the WWE, I am the voice of Monday Night Raw. I did not deserve that.
JERRY LAWLER
Michael Cole, sometimes in life, you need to show someone tough love. For the past few months, you have spouted nothing but rubbish about the Miz and Alex Riley and it was time for someone to show you how things really are. I’m sorry I had to resort to that but did you notice how your buddy, Miz, didn’t come to help you?
MICHAEL COLE
You’ll pay for that, Lawler, you’ll pay, mark my words ...
MATT STRIKER
Anyway ... it’s time for some Smackdown action!
The sounds of a car horn can be heard throughout the arena as a Black Rolls Royce slowly moves through the curtains at the side of the stage signalling the arrival of the rich Mexican royalty and Smackdown’s newest superstar, Alberto Del Rio, grinning in the front seat.
RICARDO RODRIGUEZ
Damas y Caballeros ... Es mi honor de introducir a usted, un hombre de la realeza, un hombre con una inteligencia superior, es invicto y es el orgullo de México ... Es ALBERTO DEL RRRRIO!
Del Rio gets out of the car wearing his gold trunks and his white scarf, he makes his way onto the ramps where fire-drops rain from the air, a gold backdrop to the arrival of Del Rio as he enters the ring. His ring announcer takes his scarf and leaves the ring.
MATT STRIKER
Here he is, the man who took out Rey Mysterio on his first night on Smackdown, Alberto Del Rio.
JERRY LAWLER
His ring announcer looks like he has a pudding on his head, what is that haircut?
MICHAEL COLE
Maybe you should punch him out for it, King?
TONY CHIMEL
Alberto Del Rio’s opponent, weighing 227 pounds, from Toronto, Canada ... CHRISTIAN!
Christian surveys the arena for his peeps before heading down to the ring and rolling under the bottom rope. He looks at Del Rio and laughs – possibly at his gold shorts – before lifting himself up onto the turnbuckle to acknowledge the Peeps in the crowd.
Christian vs. Alberto Del Rio
Del Rio starts the match by winking in his customary way at Christian and talking to him about what he did to that ‘little chihuahua’ Rey Mysterio. Christian circles Del Rio and the pair lock up centre of the ring. Del Rio takes advantage and whips Christian into the corner before posing in front of the former Intercontinental Champion. The pair grapple again and Del Rio gets Christian into a headlock which he uses to flip Christian up and over onto the mat. Again, Del Rio lets Christian go to pose instead of following it up. Christian gets to his feet and the two lock up again, this time Christian uses the Fireman’s Carry to flip Del Rio onto his back and then stands back posing much to the disgust of Del Rio.
A ‘Christian!’ chant begins in the arena as Captain Charisma goes to work on Del Rio. He whips the Mexican into the ropes and uses the momentum of Del Rio to lift him up and fall back into the Flapjack. Del Rio quickly moves out of the ring and gets his ring announcer, Ricardo Rodriguez, to check him over. Del Rio slowly re-enters the ring and locks up with Christian again; however, this time he goes for a cheap shot and kicks Christian’s knee from underneath him. With Christian on the mat, Del Rio takes advantage and starts to hit forearm smashes to the back of Christian. He slips on a rear-choke hold that the referee allows despite it looking a little close to a choke. Del Rio takes Christian down to the mat and takes full advantage of the match. Christian reaches out and takes the bottom rope to force the break which Del Rio does immediately before stomping away on Christian’s back again. With Christian unsteady in the corner, Del Rio runs towards him and hits an Enzuguiri to Christian’s skull in the corner that sends Christian crashing down to the mat. Del Rio covers ... 1 ... 2 ... a weak kickout from Christian.
Del Rio lifts Christian and goes for a gut-wrench suplex but Christian blocks and manages to free himself from Del Rio’s grasp. A quick dropkick gives Christian time to breathe as Del Rio recovers from the first shock of the match to his system. Del Rio goes for another Enzuguiri in the corner but this time, Christian ducks and Del Rio misses. With Del Rio down, Christian drop kicks him again as he staggers up and sends Del Rio sprawling over the middle rope. He baseball slides out of the ring and slaps Del Rio in the face which infuriates the Mexican. Christian climbs the ropes and goes for another dropkick – this time from the top buckle – but misses and Del Rio pounces. He drags his arm out and works at it, looking to weaken it for the Arm Bar submission hold later, by ripping it out of the socket almost and delivering kicks and knees to elbow. Christian begins to favour his left arm as Del Rio cruelly punishes it over and over, before signalling that it is time for the Arm Bar by twirling his hand in the air. However, Christian fights back by countering into a Tornado DDT that has Del Rio down and Christian struggling with his arm. Christian slowly gets to his feet and lifts Del Rio up into an inverted suplex slam as the crowd begin to cheer him on. Christian stands back and signals for the Killswitch, waiting for Del Rio to get up, waiting as the Mexican gets to his knees, then his feet, turning around ... Ricardo Rodriguez grabs onto Christian’s foot to stop him and Christian kicks out at him to get him off. As he turns back to face Del Rio though, another kick to the head catches him off guard and Del Rio smiles as he drags Christian back up before twisting him into the Arm Bar, rolling over him and extending his elbow ... Christian tries to fight out but can only wriggle aimlessly in pain and is forced to tap out.
TONY CHIMEL
Here is your winner, via a submission ... ALBERTO DEL RIO!
Del Rio releases the hold and stands to acclaim the crowd who rain jeers down on him for his interference victory.
MICHAEL COLE
Another impressive win for Alberto Del Rio, Striker, he’s beaten one of the WWE veterans there ...
MATT STRIKER
Very impressive, another win for Alberto and he looks like he is here to make a big impact on Friday Nights. But what next for Christian? Will he accept that he was beaten or will he be after some revenge for the way he lost?
MICHAEL COLE
Ricardo Rodriguez played quite a significant part in that victory wouldn’t you say?
The camera switches to the backstage area where John Cena is stood with Josh Matthews; on seeing Cena, the usual mixed reception bursts out of the arena with boos and cheers in evidence. Cena smiles as he faces Matthews.
JOSH MATTHEWS
At this time, allow me to introduce ... John Cena! Tonight, John, you have a chance to deliver a lasting blow to the Nexus group that has made your life a misery in recent weeks.
JOHN CENA
A win tonight won’t make up for all the beatings that I’ve received, Josh, that’s for sure. But it will show the Nexus that John Cena is exactly what he says he is. A man who never gives up, a man who believes in the WWE and believes in respect. Tonight, I go into a Number One Contender match with Wade Barrett with revenge in mind, with those beatings in mind ... but most of all, I go into tonight with the WWE Championship in mind. After I beat Wade Barrett tonight, I am going to take my title shot at Cyber Sunday in three weeks time, I am going to beat Randy Orton for the WWE Title ... and I am going to show Nexus exactly who they are ...
Cena pauses as something catches his eye to the side. The camera zooms out a little and we see Sheamus come into the scene. He looks confused.
SHEAMUS
Aren’t you forgetting summat, fella? Aren’t you forgetting that Randy Orton has a match with me tonoyt? If you win your match with Barrett, Cena, it won’ be Orton you need t’ worry about at Cyber Sunday. It’ll be me.
JOHN CENA
Trust me, Sheamus, there is no way I’m ever going to forget about you. How can I forget that fiery red hair or that mayonnaise white body? I haven’t forgotten you, Sheamus, I’ve just decided that Randy Orton will beat you tonight.
SHEAMUS
Is that so, Cena? Well, you’d better hope you’re royt. Because, if you’re not, you’re going to be in a helluva lot a trouble at Cyber Sunday, fella.
Sheamus barges past Cena and walks away to his locker room leaving Cena to shake his head as the camera heads back into the arena.
TONY CHIMEL
The following contest is a 2 on 1 Handicap Match and is for the Divas Championship. Heading to the ring, the self-proclaimed co-Divas Champions ... LAYLA and MICHELLE McCOOL!
Layla and Michelle McCool come out both wearing Laycool hoodies and holding their Divas Title belts up, looking confident. They ‘kiss’ their belts together and walk to the ring ignoring the hands of the WWE Universe in the aisle before entering the ring in their usual, sexy fashion.
TONY CHIMEL
And the challenger ... from Los Angeles, California ... MELINA!
The red carpet is rolled out and the paparazzi click their cameras as Melina poses on the stage before strutting down the aisle to the ring, a huge smile on her face, her eyes fixed on Laycool in the ring. She stands on the ring apron whilst Laycool mock her before jumping into the splits and sliding under the rope. She removes her furry coat and turns to face the champions ...
DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP – 2 vs. 1 Handicap Match
Champions Layla and Michelle McCool vs. Melina
Layla starts the match for the self proclaimed champions with Michelle in the corner for the tag when needed; Melina, of course, does not have that luxury – she is on her own. It is Melina who takes early control with a quick suplex that leaves Layla shocked on the mat. Melina stares her down and signals a belt on her waist to show her intentions to the champion. As Melina moves towards Layla, the British diva kicks out and catches Melina in the gut, winding her a little, and allowing Layla chance to get into the match. She pushes Melina back into the corner with some well placed kicks before deliberately pacing back. She rushes towards Melina in the corner but Melina avoids her and Layla smashes into the turnbuckle allowing Melina to spring up from the bottom rope and kick her in the face. Layla stumbles over to McCool and makes the tag as Melina takes in the acclaim of the fans.
Michelle McCool paces round the ring and the two come together in a lock up. McCool overpowers Melina and uses European uppercuts to knock Melina back before a perfect belly-to-belly suplex plants Melina down on the mat. McCool goes for the pin ... 1 ... 2 ... kick out from Melina. With Melina recovering on the mat, McCool lifts her up and hits more uppercuts before whipping Melina into the ropes. On her way back, McCool looks for the Big Boot to Melina but she ducks and hits the opposite ropes instead to perform a handspring back elbow smash to send McCool down and scrambling over to Layla for the tag. Twice in quick succession, Melina has now countered and sent Laycool scrambling for cover and the champions look a little worried for the first time.
McCool tags in Layla who starts talking smack to Melina, accusing her of being a cry-baby again, circling the ring. As Melina walks a little too close to Laycool’s corner, Michelle hits a clothesline and puts Melina down on the mat. Layla pounces and starts delivering wild punches to Melina who covers up as best she can. Layla climbs to the middle rope and waits for Melina to rise before hitting a bulldog to her opponent. With Melina down, Layla tags in Michelle again and they proceed to double team Melina with kicks whilst the referee forces Layla away. McCool stands over Melina and looks round at the WWE Universe before standing on the small of Melina’s back on one foot, twisting the ball of her foot into it. Melina looks in pain on the mat as Michelle steps away and claps her hands together waiting for Melina to try and rise up. As Melina gets to her knees, McCool hits a low dropkick to the side of her head before rolling her onto her front and setting in the Camel Clutch. With Melina in agony, McCool pulls back and looks set for the submission victory as Melina is close to tapping out. However, Melina makes one big effort and manages to wrap her foot around the bottom rope to make the referee break the hold. Michelle argues with the referee, as does Layla, foolishly allowing Melina time to recover. Melina staggers to her feet as McCool turns round and Melina rushes at her and grabs her by the side of the head, maybe the hair, and pulls her down to the mat ... both women get up and Melina repeats the move before letting out a piercing scream.
Layla enters the ring and Melina dodges her before clotheslining her to the mat. As both members of Laycool get to their feet, Melina hits the ropes and delivers a high roundhouse kick that catches both members of Laycool and sends them to the mat. McCool rolls out of the ring and Melina goes after Layla in the corner, scissoring her head with her legs and taking her down in the headscissors. Layla looks spent on the mat and Melina sets up for the Primal Scream – an inverted leg bulldog. With Layla down, Melina – in the splits – pins Layla down for the pinfall. However, the referee is waving to Melina and shaking his head. Layla is not legal and Melina screws up her face and jumps up ... just in time to receive Michelle’s big boot to the side of the face. Michelle lifts Melina up from behind, hooking her arms tight, whilst the referee removes Layla. McCool drops Melina into a facebuster – the ‘Wings of Love’ finisher – and covers Melina. 1 ... 2 ... 3! Laycool retain the Divas Title!
TONY CHIMEL
Here are your winners and still Divas Champions ... LAYCOOL!
A still stunned Layla rolls into the ring to celebrate with Michelle McCool and the referee hands over the Divas Title belts before raising their hands in victory. Michelle McCool pulls away and signals to Layla to lift Melina up to her feet before heading out of the ring to get a steel chair. Layla holds Melina up and Michelle swings the chair but Melina escapes ... and Layla is smashed in the face by the chair to Michelle’s dismay. While Michelle looks shocked, Melina hits her finishing move – the Primal Scream – one more time and, covering McCool in the splits, counts three with her fingers.
MATT STRIKER
A fabulous effort from Melina there guys, she was so close to victory. If she’d have gone for the right member of Laycool, we’d have a new Divas Champion!
MICHAEL COLE
That’s rubbish, Striker, she went after the wrong person, Layla wasn’t legal. In the WWE, you have to keep track better than that!
JERRY LAWLER
Melina got payback in the end though, proving that she is the Divas Champion in waiting.
The camera follows Melina up the ramp as she waves to the WWE Universe before cutting backstage to the interview area where Josh Matthews is waiting with Nexus leader, Wade Barrett.
JOSH MATTHEWS
Ladies and Gentlemen, I can confirm that there is still no sign back here of the Deadman, the Undertaker. However, I do have here as my guest right now, the leader of the Nexus, Wade Barrett.
WADE BARRETT
That’s right, Josh Matthews, the Undertaker is not important tonight. He is finished, past it, the winds of change are blowing – just like I said they would – Nexus is the new story here in the WWE.
JOSH MATTHEWS
That being said, Wade, what are your chances of victory tonight over John Cena?
WADE BARRETT
What are my chances of victory tonight? Are you mad? The chances of victory for Wade Barrett tonight are 100%, it’s what we call a racing certainty. After all the agony of the various beatings that Cena has received from the Nexus recently, his body will be broken down, he will have nothing left. John Cena couldn’t beat me on his very best day and he certainly won’t beat me tonight. That is a guarantee, Josh.
JOSH MATTHEWS
Will there be any interference from Nexus in tonight’s match?
WADE BARRETT
Are you trying to suggest that I need Nexus to help me beat John Cena? Let’s get this straight, Josh, I am the leader of Nexus but I was also the winner of NXT Season 1. That makes me the very best of the best. Even without Nexus, I would dominate John Cena and make him wish he’d never heard my name. Tonight, Wade Barrett will beat John Cena – whether he has any help or not. And then I will go on to Cyber Sunday and cash in my opportunity at the WWE Title. You’d better get used to seeing me on top of the WWE!
????
Wade, wait up. Wade ...
Barrett turns to face the opposite way and looks surprised to see ... Michael Tarver!
WADE BARRETT
Michael Tarver? I thought you’d disappeared after we banished you from the Nexus last week?
MICHAEL TARVER
Wade, I’m sorry ... My attack on John Cena was – like you said – pathetic. I’m still Nexus, Wade, don’t kick me out. I can prove my worth.
WADE BARRETT
I don’t think you can, Michael Tarver, I don’t think you can. Get out of my way.
Barrett walks past Tarver who looks shocked that Barrett does not appreciate him no more. The camera returns to the arena where there is a lull in the audience before ...
JUSTIN ROBERTS
This match is set for one fall and is a Number 1 contenders match for the right to challenge for the WWE Championship at Cyber Sunday. Introducing first, from West Newbury, Massachusetts, weighting 240 pounds ... JOHN CENA!
The crowd comes alive for the arrival of John Cena with cheers all around but a pocket of boos still clearly audible. Cena comes out of the backstage area and stops on the ramp to salute the crowd. He then runs down to the ring where he throws his hat away to the crowd before raising his arms aloft to the fans. He removes his purple ‘Never Give Up’ t-shirt and throws it out into the crowd before handing over his chain to the referee as the crowd chant ‘Cena!’ loudly as they wait on the arrival of his opponent.
The cheers for Cena turns to jeers for Nexus as all members of Nexus – Slater, Gabriel, Otunga and Sheffield – accompany their leader, Wade Barrett, to the ring. Barrett leads the way, cockily strutting down the aisle slowly as Cena eyeballs him from the ring.
JUSTIN ROBERTS
His opponent ... accompanied to the ring by Nexus ... from Manchester, England, weighing 265 pounds ... WADE BARRETT!
The leader of Nexus climbs into the ring whilst the other members of Nexus circle the ring, one on each side, climbing the apron and standing outside the ropes. Barrett laughs at Cena as he turns his head different ways to keep an eye on the four surrounding members of Nexus whilst the referee tries to tell them to get down.
#1 CONTENDERS MATCH FOR WWE TITLE
Wade Barrett vs. John Cena
Cena and Barrett stare across the ring at each other as the Nexus members step down from the mat although they retain their positions on the four sides of the ring. The bell rings and Barrett talks to Cena who looks focused as the pair butt heads. It is Barrett that backs away first, turning away before trying to catch Cena un-aware with a right hand. Cena ducks and launches himself at Barrett to the roars from the crowd, smashing Barrett over and over with right and left hands and forcing him back into the corner. Barrett attempts to cover up in the corner but Cena continues his assault while the referee pulls Cena back. With a bit of room to breathe, Barrett drops down and slides out of the ring, to Cena’s disgust, where he is consoled by the other Nexus members. John Cena has had enough though and slides out of the ring on the adjacent side to attack Barrett from behind with a forearm that sends Barrett smashing into the barricades. With Nexus scattered, Cena mounts Barrett and delivers wild punches to the head of the Nexus leader before he is finally pulled back by Skip Sheffield and David Otunga and Cena backs up to the ring with four Nexus members facing up to him. The referee slides out and stands between Cena and Nexus, warning them to stay away from him. Cena is encouraged to get back in the ring whilst Nexus pull Barrett back to his feet and into the ring.
With Barrett back in the ring, Cena goes back on the attack and whips Barrett into the corner before hip-tossing him over as he comes back. Cena is in control as long as the match stays in the ring. Cena waits for Barrett to get up and then hits a bulldog on him as he begins to build momentum. He climbs to the top rope and looks set for a dropkick to his nemesis. He flies over, feet first, but Barrett moves and Cena dropkicks the referee in the chest sending him out of the ring. That is the opening that Nexus have been waiting for and they jump into the ring and attack Cena like a pack of rabied dogs, fists and feet raining down on the ‘face of the WWE’ as he tries desperately to cover up. Skip Sheffield orders Cena to be lifted to his feet before he delivers a vicious clothesline to Cena that crumples the former WWE champion in a heap. The beat down continues and Cena is set up in the corner so that Justin Gabriel can climb to the top rope and hit the 450o splash. John Cena looks beaten and, with Barrett now recovered, it is time for the Nexus leader to finish it. Barrett lifts Cena up onto his shoulder and savagely smashes Cena back down, the ‘Wastelands’ finisher the final point of the match it seems.
Nexus begin to push and shove the referee back into the ring where Barrett is stood over a beaten former champ. The referee looks groggy as he begins to crawl and lifts his head to see that Barrett has Cena laid out. Barrett hooks Cena’s legs in a pinfall and yells at the referee to hurry up but he is still struggling as he finally reaches to make the count ... 1 ... ... 2 ... ... NO! Cena kicks out unbelievably! Wade Barrett goes mad with the referee and David Otunga pulls the referee out of the ring before Skip Sheffield hits him with a clothesline. With the referee down, concern spreads around the arena about how far Nexus will go to win this match. Suddenly, a gang of officials pour out of the back and head down to their fallen comrade and one referee makes his way round to Justin Roberts.
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Ladies and Gentlemen, I have just been informed by the new referee for this match that Heath Slater, Justin Gabriel, Skip Sheffield and David Otunga have been banned from ringside!
The Nexus team argue and shout at the officials but start to retreat to the aisle whilst the new referee argues with Wade Barrett. On the outside of the ring, in front of the announcers table, Cena begins to recover as WWE security begin to file out and shepherd Nexus away. Paramedics come out to help the referee who was beaten by Nexus and he is gingerly carried away. Barrett turns around from watching his team-mates ordered out and sees a staggering Cena on his feet opposite him. Shocked, Barrett stares at Cena and mouths at him but Cena holds his hand in front of his face and waves it as the crowd chant ‘You can’t see me!’ to Barrett. Incensed, Barrett rushes at Cena and begins to offload on him again but this time Cena manages to cover up and escape before hitting the ropes and shoulder blocking the Nexus leader. Two more running shoulder blocks send Barrett down to the mat where Cena waves his hand in front of his face again before hitting the ‘5 Knuckle Shuffle’ to the delight of most of the crowd. Cena climbs to the top rope and drops the leg on Barrett before lifting his hand to the crowd to signal that it is time for the ‘Attitude Adjustment’ ... the crowd go wild as Cena waits to pounce ... patiently waiting ... he lifts Barrett up onto his shoulders before flipping him up and over and crashing to the mat! Cena covers Barrett for the pin ... 1 ... 2 ... 3, no! Barrett has kicked out of the AA!
Cena sits back in shock as Barrett writhes on the ground. The crowd rally behind Cena again and he looks around determined. Barrett is laid on his back, centre of the ring, and Cena makes his move. Quick as a flash, Cena has Barrett locked in the STF, pulling back as hard as he can, desperate to make Barrett tap, desperate to secure a shot at the WWE Championship ... Barrett starts to fight but he is nowhere near the ropes, he starts to fade, his hand his out to the side ready to tap ... Nexus appear in the aisle again, racing down to the aid of their leader but the referee spots them coming and stands at the ropes, ordering them to turn round and go back but while his back is turned, Wade Barrett starts to tap out, surrendering to John Cena’s STF ... but the referee hasn’t seen it so Cena holds on, stretching Barrett further and further ... willing the referee to turn round and signal for the bell ... Barrett keeps tapping when all of a sudden, Cena releases the hold, rolling in agony, clutching his neck, beside Barrett ... Michael Tarver is stood in the ring with a steel chair and quickly escapes as Nexus begin to retreat. The referee turns round to see both men on the mat. Barrett forces himself up, lifts Cena onto his shoulders and hits ‘Wasteland’ for a second time to Cena. He covers for the pin ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! Wade Barrett is the number 1 contender for the WWE Championship!
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Here is your winner ... WADE BARRETT!
Nexus return to the ring to help out an exhausted, battered Wade Barrett who lifts his arm in celebration as he is helped up the ramp and away. Michael Tarver has disappeared into the crowd and replays show that he made his way through the crowd, picked up a steel chair and jabbed it right into Cena’s throat just in time to save Barrett. John Cena is sat in the ring, still holding his throat, shaking with rage ... The camera focuses on Cena as the announcers discuss the losing effort.
JERRY LAWLER
What an amazing effort from John Cena to come back from such a beating by Nexus to have Barrett beaten. No man can beat six men on his own though, no man can.
MICHAEL COLE
A terrific effort but ultimately it is Wade Barrett who walks out of here looking forward to a match with Sheamus or Randy Orton for the WWE Title in the near future. Is there any way to stop the Nexus?
MATT STRIKER
Some credit though for Wade Barrett, guys, he fought an amazing fight to hang in as long as he did in that STF. And he kicked out of the Attitude Adjustment as well. You might not like the man or his methods but there is no doubt that we have got a new superstar in the WWE in Wade Barrett.
JERRY LAWLER
That might be so, Matt Striker, but he hasn’t proven he can beat anybody on his own yet!
MICHAEL COLE
He will be getting an opportunity to win the WWE Title very soon though!
The camera cuts to the backstage area where Daniel Bryan is packing his gear into his bad after his victory over Alex Riley earlier tonight. His United States title is hanging up beside him. Todd Grisham walks in and interrupts him.
TODD GRISHAM
Congratulations on your win tonight, Daniel. Can I get your thoughts on the situation that developed between Jerry Lawler, yourself, Michael Cole and the Miz?
DANIEL BRYAN
Sure, Todd, thanks. Ever since I arrived here in the WWE, way back in NXT Season 1 when I went 0 and 10, Michael Cole has been on my case, talking me down, insulting my beliefs and values. And look at me now ... I’m here in the WWE, I’m the United States Champion and I just beat Alex Riley three to zero in a 2 out of 3 falls match. Michael Cole is starting to annoy many other people and I believe that the King was the first person to say, you know what, I’m sick of hearing it. And if the Miz gets involved, he can be assured that I will take him out. So I’d like to say thank you, right now, to Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler, a man of class and dignity.
TODD GRISHAM
Thanks Daniel, have a good evening.
Bryan zips up his bag, lifts his title belt off the shelf and heads out of the locker room heading for home after a good evening’s work. The camera returns to a tense announce table where Matt Striker is sat between Cole and Lawler with a grin on his face.
MATT STRIKER
Well, gentlemen, your thoughts?!
MICHAEL COLE
What a nerd! If you believe all that rubbish, King, you’re a bigger idiot than I ever imagined. Is that how Daniel Bryan works? Kissing ass until he reaches the top of the company? Not here, Daniel Bryan, not here!
JERRY LAWLER
Oh, shut up, Michael Cole. Like Daniel just said, it’s not only him and me who are sick of hearing you. Haven’t you heard the boos that you’re getting from the WWE Universe? If you want to be the Miz’ biggest cheerleader, that’s fine, but don’t expect everybody else to agree with you, OK?
TONY CHIMEL
The following tag team contest is set for one fall and is for the WWE Undisputed Tag Team Championships. Introducing first, the challengers, from San Francisco, California, weighing in at a combined weight of 480 pounds ... JIMMY and JEY, THE USOS!
The Usos head towards the ring to a muted reaction with the daughter of Superfly Jimmy Snuka besides them, heading for the ring looking for their first taste of Tag Team gold in the WWE.
MICHAEL COLE
Well, we’d better concentrate on this match now. The Usos are here after they beat the Hart Dynasty and Vladimir Kozlov and Santino Marella on RAW two weeks ago to earn a shot at the Tag Team titles. However, since then, they’ve lost some momentum after suffering singles defeats individually to the champions, Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre.
MATT STRIKER
But are the minds of the champions completely focused on the challengers? They’ve been distracted by the claims by others that they are living in fear of Evan Bourne and Mark Henry who they attacked to take out of the Number 1 contenders match on RAW that the Usos won.
MICHAEL COLE
Excuse me, gentlemen, I have a phone call to take ...
Cole can be heard talking on his phone in the background, though not clearly, as the champions begin their entrance ...
First out for the champions is Drew McIntyre who saunters down to the ring with his Tag Team title belt round his waist. He holds his arms up high as he reaches the bottom of the ramp and points with two fingers to the sky before his music is replaced by ...
... the music of his partner, Cody Rhodes. Cody admires himself in the mirror before walking down the aisle to meet Drew at the foot of the ramp. They embrace before entering the ring to boos.
TONY CHIMEL
And their opponents ... weighing a combined total of 479 pounds, they are the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions ... CODY RHODES and DREW McINTYRE!
TAG TEAM TITLE
Champions Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes vs. The Usos
The Usos look to attack from the very first bell and have the champions reeling in a furious opening exchange as Jimmy Uso goes after Drew McIntyre. A combination of right hands, clubbing forearms and a squash in the corner has Drew struggling for air and Jimmy goes for a quick pinfall attempt. 1 ... 2 ... kick out from Drew McIntyre. He manages to kick out at Jimmy and tags in Cody Rhodes who comes in with a smile on his face. He looks out around at the crowd posing whilst Jimmy looks at him mockingly ... Jimmy strikes Cody in the face, causing the Dashing one to throw a minor tantrum as he argues with the referee about Jimmy’s actions. Jimmy tags in Jey who rushes over towards Cody Rhodes and looks to continue what Jimmy started but the referee tries to hold him up as Cody is technically in the ropes. With the referee distracted with Jey, Cody takes his opportunity to poke the Samoan in the eye and the referee misses this. Cody begins to take his time and set the pace, while Drew encourages him from the corner, sending Jey down with a dropkick. Cody, without knee pads, follows this up with a knee drop before tagging in Drew to carry it on.
McIntyre comes in and immediately sets up for a snap suplex but Jey manages to fight out of it and looks for the tag to Jimmy. Drew realises and decides to take Jimmy out and rushes into him to send him flying off the mat and onto the barricade with Jey tagging thin air instead. This time, McIntyre is able to hit the snap suplex that has Jey laid out on the mat. He tags in Cody Rhodes and the champions look in control ...
Mark Henry and Evan Bourne come marching out into the arena and head towards the ring with the champions in their sights. They stop at the bottom of the ramp and watch as Rhodes goes after Jey Uso looking for the Cross-Rhodes finisher. However, a distracted Rhodes lets Jey go and stands at the ropes arguing with Henry and Bourne. As Rhodes turns round to focus back on the match, Jey Uso hits a superkick that catches Rhodes right under the chin and leaves him flat on his back. Jey tags in Jimmy who climbs to the top rope looking for the Samoan Splash. He leaps off the ropes, arms and legs out, crashing all of his 240 pounds down onto the chest of Cody Rhodes who looks beaten. 1 ... 2 ... Drew McIntyre saves Rhodes from the pinfall with a kick to the head of Jimmy Uso and then hits the Futureshock DDT on the Samoan to leave him on his back next to Rhodes. Jey Uso crashes into Drew McIntyre with a clothesline that sends them both up and over the ropes. Back in the ring, Cody manages to get one arm across the chest of Jimmy and the referee counts the fall ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre retain their titles!
TONY CHIMEL
Here are your winners and still the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions ... DREW McINTYRE and CODY RHODES!
As the referee hands the belts to Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre in the ring, they hold them aloft as they look down into the eyes of Evan Bourne and Mark Henry. Bourne and Henry decide that the time has come for some revenge for the brutal attack on them on RAW two weeks ago and slide under the ropes to get to the champions. However, Rhodes and McIntyre quickly escape and rush off down the aisle and out of reach. Henry and Bourne stand in the ring laughing at the champions who defiantly hold up their title belts before leaving the arena.
JERRY LAWLER
So much for not being scared of Mark Henry and Evan Bourne, hey?
MATT STRIKER
Come on King, that’s the world’s strongest man and Evan ‘Air’ Bourne – why would anybody want to face them after being involved in a tough match?
MICHAEL COLE
The champions retain their titles ... but it looks as if they might have some bigger issues to deal with very soon!
JERRY LAWLER
Are you back with us, Michael? Who was on the phone?
Cole refuses to answer and shakes his head at Lawler as the camera cuts backstage again. The camera picks up the sounds of a commotion and some crashing and banging. The cameraman rushes down a corridor and round a corner and focuses on a wrestler curled up in pain on the concrete floor. The crowd realise that it is John Cena who has been attacked and that stood next to Cena is the angry looking figure of Michael Tarver. Tarver reaches down and drags Cena to his feet, stares him in the eyes before throwing a knockout right hand at Cena’s face that collapses Cena out cold. Security rush to the scene and Tarver disappears into the night outside as the paramedics begin to work on Cena. The camera stays with Cena as he is loaded onto a stretcher and taken away to a medical room.
As Cena is wheeled away on the stretcher, a smiling Wade Barrett walks into shot and looks over at the stretcher as it leaves. He laughs to himself before muttering ‘Nice job, Tarver, nice job!’ and walking away with a cocky strut.
CYBER SUNDAY
3 WEEKS
Your chance to vote and shape the WWE!
MICHAEL COLE
Can I have your attention please?
Cole stands up and takes the microphone that he usually uses when he has an email from the General Manager into the ring. The crowd boo and jeer Cole as he enters the ring.
MICHAEL COLE
I have not received an email from the General Manager but I have something that I have to get off my chest right now. Earlier tonight, during the match between Alex Riley and the goof, Daniel Bryan, my broadcast colleague Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler got involved in the match. He committed the biggest sin that a wrestling announcer can commit; instead of calling the match, he got involved in the match and denied Alex Riley the chance to become United States Champion as well as denying the Miz the chance to be the only NXT mentor to lead two of their rookies to WWE gold. When I attempted to stop King, he decided to punch me in the face. So I’d like to invite King up here now ...
Jerry Lawler leaves his position at the announce table and enters the ring with a microphone as well leaving just Matt Striker at the table.
MICHAEL COLE
Now you listen to me, King, and listen real well. I am the ‘Voice of the WWE’ and I do not get treated in that way by anybody, do you hear me? Nobody! Now you better apologise to me right now ...
JERRY LAWLER
Michael, I have already apologised to you for punching you in the mouth. You wound me up and I snapped, emotions run high here in the WWE. However, I refuse to apologise for my actions in the US Championship match earlier. Yes, I am an announcer and I shouldn’t be interfering ... but The Miz was here to mentor Alex Riley and shouldn’t have got involved either. I was standing up for what I believe in ... Daniel Bryan is a good kid who deserves a chance to shine here in the WWE regardless of what you or the Miz think about that!
MICHAEL COLE
You will apologise for your actions, King, you will apologise now ... or you will be forced to apologise.
JERRY LAWLER
Meaning what exactly, Cole? You know what? I won’t be apologising so whatever stunt you want to try and pull, you go ahead and try it ... Go on ...
Alex Riley and The Miz come down looking annoyed with Lawler’s comments and they head straight to the ring with the bright red briefcase in the hands of the Miz as he walks. They get in the ring and stand with Michael Cole and face the Hall of Famer ...
MICHAEL COLE
You know what, King? I think you’re going to apologise!
JERRY LAWLER
I don’t think so, Michael Cole, you can’t intimidate me.
MICHAEL COLE
Lawler, you’re a disgrace to the WWE! You’ve been here since the mid-nineties, all you’ve ever done is embarrass yourself in pointless feuds that you always lose ... the thing you’ll be most remembered for is shouting ‘Puppies!’ every time you see a Diva. You’re just jealous of the Miz and Alex Riley and me, three men who are the future WWE Hall of Fame, a Money In The Bank winner and future WWE Champion, a young superstar with more charisma in his finger than you have in your body, and an announcer, the ‘Voice of the WWE’ and the man who retired your good friend, Jim Ross, good ol’ JR! You should have left when he left and saved us all from your embarrassing comments and actions. Now apologise for earlier or you are going to pay ...
The Miz takes the microphone away from Michael Cole and looks straight into the eyes of the King ...
THE MIZ
Do what he said, King, apologise to Alex Riley for costing him the United States Title.
JERRY LAWLER
No chance, Miz. I might not have accomplished much here in the WWE but I have accomplished more than you three, I know that much. Miz, you’re not WWE Champion yet, you’ve still got to grow a pair and beat the WWE Champion before you can call yourself that. One lucky win in a ladder match doesn’t change that. Riley, a man who I haven’t seen win a match since facing the NXT rookies who finished 6th, 7th and 8th in Series 2. And Michael Cole, a poor alternative to Jim Ross, the greatest wrestling commentator there ever was. Apologise? No chance!
Lawler throws down the microphone and goes on the attack with a right hand to the Miz before he can react and then starting to beat Alex Riley as Michael Cole runs for his life out of the ring. King forces Riley into the corner with a barrage of right hands until he is suddenly smashed in the back by the Miz and his Money In The Bank briefcase. Lawler crumples and this gives Riley the chance to hit his finisher, ‘You’re Dismissed!’ to leave Lawler helpless on the mat. The Miz sets up the briefcase on the floor before lifting up Lawler and hitting the Skull Crushing Finale onto the case, battering it and squashing it even more, leaving Lawler flat out on the mat. The Miz’ music kicks in and he leads Riley back out of the ring where they high five Michael Cole before heading to the back.
MICHAEL COLE
Let that be a lesson to you as well, Matt Striker, do not mess with Michael Cole – or else you’ll be in very deep trouble. Thanks, Miz!
MATT STRIKER
I’m shocked, Cole, I’m honestly shocked that you could do that to the King. I thought he was your friend?
MICHAEL COLE
Well, so did I, until he decided to punch me in the face earlier tonight. He got what he deserved and the Coalminers in the place are loving it!
The camera cuts to the dressing room where Randy Orton is sat getting ready for his WWE Title defence against Sheamus later tonight. Wade Barrett walks into the room and Orton stands up ...
RANDY ORTON
What do you want, Wade?
WADE BARRETT
I’m just here to wish you luck for your match tonight, Orton. That’s all. Good luck. I’ll be waiting for you after you’ve won tonight too ...
RANDY ORTON
You going to give me the same treatment as John Cena are you? I’m not afraid of the Nexus, Wade Barrett, it’s the Nexus that should be fearing me. When I win tonight, I will set focus on you and your Nexus pack with five punts in the head coming to them ... and an RKO for you when I beat you.
Barrett and Orton stare at each other for a moment and then Barrett backs away and leaves the dressing room. The camera cuts back to the announce table where it is just Michael Cole and Matt Striker now with Jerry Lawler helped out of the arena after the attack by the Miz and Alex Riley.
TONY CHIMEL
The following contest is a Casket Match ... and it is for the World Heavyweight Championship!
TONY CHIMEL
Introducing first, weighing 328 pounds ... he is the World Heavyweight Champion ... KANE!
Kane walks defiantly down to the ring with his World Title belt wrapped around his waist. As he reaches the ring, he steps over the top rope and stands centre of the ring, raising his hands and dropping them for the explosion of red light. The lights come back on and we see that Kane is laughing again ... He stands and waits for the arrival of the Deadman, his brother ...
The chilling music and effects are met with an explosion of cheers for the iconic Phenom of the WWE, the man who is 18 and 0 at WrestleMania. However, there is no sign of a casket or the Undertaker as the music plays. After a while, the music stops and the lights return and the crowd boo as Kane laughs more ... Josh Matthews appears on the titantron.
JOSH MATTHEWS
Ladies and Gentlemen, I’m afraid that there is no sign of the Undertaker, he has not arrived tonight. Please welcome the General Manager of Smackdown ... TEDDY LONG!
TEDDY LONG
Cut my music, please, playas. Kane ... there is no sign of the Undertaker so it is my misfortune to inform everybody here tonight that there will not be a World Heavyweight Championship Casket match. It seems that Kane has destroyed the Undertaker ...
Kane nods his head and continues to smile maniacally as Teddy Long continues ...
TEDDY LONG
However, hold on there, playa ... Smackdown does have a man who I have guaranteed a World Title shot before the end of 2010. So tonight, it will be Kane, defending the World Heavyweight Championship, against ... KOFI KINGSTON!
Kofi Kingston bounds out into the arena with his usual ‘Boom!’ pose as he heads for his first World Title match. Kane looks annoyed that he has been given no preparation time but eyes Kingston as he enters the ring and stands up on the turnbuckle. Something inside Kane snaps and he throws the title down and drags Kofi back off the turnbuckle onto his back.
WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Champion Kane vs. Kofi Kingston
The referee signals for the bell as Kane puts the boot to Kofi Kingston with Kofi still wearing his t-shirt that he usually removes for action. Kane stands Kofi up in the corner and begins throwing choke thrusts at Kofi who cannot fall due to Kane holding him up. Kane finally allows Kofi out of the corner and takes a step back before clotheslining the Ghanaian over the top rope to the outside. Kane demands a microphone and stands facing Teddy Long who is still stood on the stage ...
KANE
Teddy Long, you are kidding me aren’t you? I am the World Champion, I am supposed to be facing the Undertaker tonight in a Casket Match. Kofi Kingston does not deserve to be in this ring with me! I demand that you stop this match ... now!
TEDDY LONG
Playa, Kofi has earned a shot at the title. The title must be defended tonight so I am giving Kofi Kingston his chance right now.
KANE
You seem to be misunderstanding me, Teddy. Cancel this match now ... or else you will suffer the consequences of your decisions. I am prepared for a title match, a casket match, with the Undertaker.
TEDDY LONG
Kane, I am not going to change my mind ... Defend your title.
KANE
I earned the right to choose the match I wanted, Teddy, I chose a Casket Match. Where is the casket?
TEDDY LONG
You want to face Kofi Kingston in a Casket Match?
KANE
Send out the casket, Teddy. I am going to punish Kofi Kingston for ever believing that he could face me, the Devil’s Favourite Demon, for the World Heavyweight Championship.
A set of six druids slowly approach the ring pushing a casket down the ramp. Kane stands and watches as they move the casket closer to the ring, straightening it up at the side of the ring, before leaving so the match can continue.
TEDDY LONG
There you go, Kane, a casket. This match is now a Casket Match. And playa ... I think you’d better turn round now!
Kane turns round and is dropkicked by Kofi Kingston who has now got back into the ring. Kane staggers back into the ropes and Kofi delivers kicks to the legs and chest of Kane as he looks to weaken the champion enough to fasten him into the casket. Kane has his back to the ropes with the casket behind him as Kofi hits the opposite ropes before running towards Kane ... however, Kane catches Kofi by the throat and lifts him up for a chokeslam that Kingston manages to fight out of, escaping to the outside of the ring.
Whilst out of the ring, Kingston heads around to the casket and checks it over whilst keeping half an eye on Kane at all times. Kane laughs in the ring, believing Kofi to be scared of the casket, and beckons him to return to the ring. Kingston smiles and slides back into the ring where he faces up to the Big Red Monster, his bravery unquestionable now. Kane grabs him by the throat again and forces him into the corner with Kofi struggling to get out of the hold. He tries to beat Kane off but Kane holds strong before whipping him across the ring to the opposite corner. Kane rushes in for a shoulder charge to Kingston but Kofi, quick as a flash, moves out of the ropes and kicks Kane in the head sending Kane crashing down to the mat holding his head. Kingston goes for the Boom drop and the crowd chant for him as he delivers the drop to Kane’s chest, his legs landing perfectly to make Kane wince. Kofi heads for the top rope and waits for the Monster to get to his feet before launching himself towards him for a high crossbody from the top. However, Kane manages to catch Kingston and counters into a powerslam that leaves Kofi down on the mat and gives Kane time to recover.
A ‘Kofi!’ chant echoes around the arena as the WWE Universe implore him to recover quickly. Kane grabs him by the hair and pulls him to his feet before sending him crashing back down with another choke thrust. With Kofi dazed on the mat, Kane comes off the ropes and delivers a drop kick to the head of Kingston to leave him even more dazed than before. He picks Kofi up and lifts him up onto his shoulder for a running powerslam and it seems that the power moves of Kane are going to be too much for Kingston. Kane stands back and signals for the chokeslam, holding his right arm aloft, waiting for Kofi to get to his feet ... as he does, Kane grabs his throat, lifts him high and crashes him down to leave Kofi lifeless on the mat. Kane rolls Kingston towards the casket and signals for it to be opened by the waiting referees ... once open, Kane pushes Kofi under the bottom rope and into the casket. Kofi looks beaten as Kane gets out of the ring to close the lid. However, as he grabs the lid, the lights in the arena flicker on and off several times and Kane freezes as he looks around ...
MICHAEL COLE
What is that? Could it be, Matt?
MATT STRIKER
Is it a sign from the Phenom? Is he here in the arena?
The crowd erupt at the flickering of the lights as Kane begins to shout out desperately, forgetting to close the lid of Kofi to win the match. Looking round nervously, Kane returns to the casket as the flickering stops and goes to close the lid. As he does so though, Kofi Kingston begins to fight back out with desperation punches that stagger Kane and allow Kingston to exit the casket. Kane rushes at Kingston who dodges Kane and he hits the casket with a thud followed by Trouble in Paradise to the head that sends Kane crashing to the ground beside the casket. The fans are going wild now as Kingston looks down at Kane wondering how the hell he is going to lift him into the casket for the win. Kingston begins to lift Kane’s weight up but it proves to be extremely slow progress and eventually, Kane manages to fight clear of Kingston and staggers back into the ring. Kofi looks frustrated but heads back into the ring to continue the fight.
Kofi ducks underneath a clothesline from Kane but on his bounce back from the ropes, Kane lifts him up and over for a back body drop that sees Kofi land hard. Kane lifts Kofi up and hits a one-armed sidewalk slam that has Kofi’s eyes glazing over as he lies besides the World Heavyweight Champion. Kane starts to roll Kofi towards the casket again but this time Kofi is conscious and holds the ropes so that Kane can only get his legs into the box. Kofi fights back up on the apron, teetering above the open casket, but manages to force Kane back with a series of forearm smashes before leaping up onto the top rope and springing off to hit a flying forearm that sends Kane down again. With the crowd fully behind him, Kofi begins to stalk Kane as he groggily gets to his feet ... Trouble in Paradise connects a second time and this time Kane is down on the mat, feet away from the casket ... Kofi rolls Kane over twice and into the casket before sliding under the ropes to try and close the lid on the champion. With the World Title almost in his grasp, Kofi goes for the title ... when suddenly the lights go out and the sound of a gong is heard to echo through the arena. Some fans cheer, yet some fans can be heard complaining that Kofi was so close to victory before the lights come back on with another gong sounding. Amazingly, Kane is out of the casket and sat in the corner of the ring with Kofi laid out cold at the side of the casket on the mat – just one roll from the casket. Kane looks round shocked before making his way over to Kofi and shoving him into the casket with his foot. Kane exits the ring, looking nervously around him, lifts the lid and closes Kofi inside to secure his World Championship reign for now.
TONY CHIMEL
Here is your winner and still World Heavyweight Champion ... KANE!
The referee hands the World Title to Kane as he staggers back into the ring looking bewildered at the turn of events. He eyes the casket, where Kofi Kingston is closed inside, before looking around again ... However, the maniacal laughing has now stopped. Kane is worried and suddenly ... the light go off again, a gong sounds ... a few seconds later, there is a bolt of lightning that hits the casket with an explosion before the lights return ...
... and sat on the top of the casket is a small, gold, shiny urn. The crowd cheer and a chant of ‘Undertaker!’ starts as Kane exits the ring, escaping as quickly as he can past the casket and up the ramp where he falls over clutching his title.
MATT STRIKER
Another amazing effort from Kofi Kingston and it seems like ... dare I say it? The Undertaker cost Kofi the World Heavyweight Title and saved Kane from defeat? Why would he do that?
MICHAEL COLE
It’s been an astonishing night so far. Is it about to get even more astonishing as we could possibly be about to witness the end of the career of one of the greatest superstars in wrestling history, Chris Jericho.
VIDEO CLIP
A clip showing the highlights of Chris Jericho’s career in WCW, ECW and the WWE are shown:
- Winning the ECW World Television Title in 1996
- The Man of 1004 holds in WCW during a feud with Dean Malenko
- Winning the WCW World Television Title in 1998
- Debut on WWE in 1999 as he interrupted the Rock on RAW
- Royal Rumble 2001 Ladder Match with Chris Benoit
- Retaining the Intercontinental Title at WrestleMania X7 beating William Regal
- Becoming the first ever Undisputed Champion in 2001 beating the Rock and Stone Cold
- Match with Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 19
- Return to WWE in 2007
- Winning the World Heavyweight Title in 2008 with a win at the Championship Scramble
- Defeating Edge for the World Title at WrestleMania 26
After the video clip, Josh Matthews is shown ready to interview another superstar.
JOSH MATTHEWS
Please welcome my guest at this time ... John Morrison!
JOHN MORRISON
Thanks, Josh.
JOSH MATTHEWS
Tonight you have a chance, John, to retire one of the greatest wrestlers in WWE history. Are you confident that this is the last night of Chris Jericho in WWE?
JOHN MORRISON
There is no doubt that Chris Jericho is one of the greats in the WWE but recently he’s been on a slide. In a wrestling career, a WWE superstar reaches that point when they’re finished. Jericho has reached that point and it is time for him to be retired so that new, younger superstars, people like me, can step up to the challenge of challenging for the top titles here in the WWE. Jericho likes to say that he is the best in the world at what he does. Well I say that tonight, Jericho will be the best retired star not in the Hall of Fame. I’ll even induct him myself if he wants ... But tonight is the night that John Morrison rises up to challenge here in the WWE. Thanks, Josh.
The camera returns to the ring where Justin Roberts is waiting in the ring.
JUSTIN ROBERTS
This next match is set for one fall. If Chris Jericho loses the match, he will retire from the WWE indefinitely.
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Introducing first, from Winnipeg, Manatoba, Canada, weighing 227 pounds ... CHRIS JERICHO!
MICHAEL COLE
Here is a man, Matt, that desperately needs a win tonight. We’ve heard Jericho threaten to quit WWE on numerous occasions but tonight it has been made official. The RAW General Manager emailed me earlier today and told me that it was in the match contract that if Chris Jericho failed to win, he would be forced to leave the WWE.
MATT STRIKER
That would be a shame for such a great superstar to end that way but you know what they say: times change. If John Morrison can beat Jericho tonight, maybe it is time for Jericho to pass the torch on to Morrison as they say in the business?
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Inroducing his opponent, weighing 223 pounds from Los Angeles, California ... JOHN MORRISON!
MICHAEL COLE
Chris Jericho stole the final place in the Six Pack Challenge at Night of Champions after a debatable win over John Morrison. Morrison did not like that one little bit and confronted Jericho about it two weeks ago on RAW and got a real beating for his troubles.
MATT STRIKER
This man, in my opinion, is a future WWE Champion and this will be an extremely interesting match. John Morrison has a unique hardcore style whilst Jericho, the wily veteran, will do whatever it takes to get the win.
Morrison removes his jacket and sunglasses, handing the glasses over to a kid at ringside, before sliding into the ring to salute the fans. He then turns to face Jericho who looks determined and focused as he talks smack to the young superstar, Morrison.
Chris Jericho vs. John Morrison
The match begins with Jericho and Morrison trading mat grappling moves as Morrison shows Jericho that he is just as accomplished on the mat as he is flying around in the air. However, Jericho takes control when he holds a sleeper on Morrison that grounds him. Jericho uses his experience to keep Morrison down but the crowd gets behind Morrison and he manages to fight out of the hold before hitting the ropes. However, Jericho meets him coming back with a flying forearm smash that sends Morrison down and Jericho resumes his mat grapples, confidence beginning to ooze out of him again ... Jericho lifts Morrison up in a headlock and delivers a vertical suplex that leaves Morrison on the mat as Jericho wipes his hands off in triumph, a big grin spreading across his face. ‘I’m the best in the world’ Jericho shouts out to the WWE Universe before he bounces off the ropes and delivers a one-handed bulldog to Morrison that leaves him face down on the mat. ‘He cannot live with me!’ Jericho calls out and he begins to receive jeers from several areas of the crowd.
As Jericho takes too long to get back to work on Morrison, the Monday Night Delight suddenly springs up and aims a well placed kick to Jericho’s chest that sends him reeling back. Morrison looks to take advantage and uses forearms to send Jericho back to the corner before he steps back, runs at Jericho in the corner and connects with a high kick to the head of Jericho. A Russian leg-sweep takes Jericho down to the mat and the crowd sense an opportunity for Morrison’s signature move, Starship Pain, before Jericho senses it too and rolls to the outside. Morrison follows Jericho – bad mistake. Jericho lulls Morrison into a false sense of security and suddenly pounces with a right hand before whipping Morrison into the steel steps to the groans of the crowd. With Morrison sat against the steps, Jericho rushes towards him and hits a knee to the face that leaves Morrison crumpled up. Jericho returns to the ring and orders the referee to count out John Morrison.
1 ... 2 ... 3 ... 4 ... 5 ... 6 ... 7 ... 8 ... Morrison rolls back into the ring and Jericho pounces immediately, stomping to the back, weakening it for a possible Walls of Jericho attempt later. Jericho then picks up Morrison and tucks his head between his leg before lifting him up into a powerbomb ... but Jericho doesn’t let go after one. He lifts him up again and delivers a second. And one more time, Jericho struggles to lift Morrison up before letting him hit the mat one more time. Three powerbombs and a cover from Jericho ... 1 ... 2 ... weak kick out from Morrison and Jericho looks annoyed and frustrated now. He argues with the referee as Morrison gets to his feet, taking too much time. Morrison goes for an attack but Jericho ducks and then hits the Codebreaker, surely the match is over now! Pin from Jericho, hooks the leg ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! Wait a minute though, Morrison’s hand is on the ropes!
MICHAEL COLE
So close to saving himself there was Jericho, so close.
MATT STRIKER
Great ring presence from John Morrison though, a great escape from the Codebreaker. Not many manage that!
A frustrated Jericho goes back on the offensive, delivering a well timed scoop slam to take Morrison down again. As Morrison slowly gets back up, Jericho sets up on the top rope, waiting for Morrison to turn round ... Jericho looks for a missile drop kick but Morrison moves and Jericho crashes to the mat. Morrison has escaped that one, dodged a bullet and now has chance to take advantage. He positions himself beside Jericho and hits a shooting star press from a standing position. Cover by Morrison, is this the end of Jericho? ... 1 ... 2 ... no, Jericho escapes again. Morrison hits a spinning wheel kick and leaves Jericho floundering near the corner again before running into Jericho with a high knee that leaves Jericho down in the corner. Morrison looks down at Jericho and decides the time has come. He jumps up onto the ropes at the turnbuckle, bouncing back and corkscrewing ... Starship Pain! Jericho lifts the knees though and Morrison has not got him beat yet. An angry Jericho slides out of the ring and kneels down besides the steel steps as he recovers. Morrison looks in pain but knows he has to keep going, keep trying to find the win that would catapult him up the WWE roster. Jericho slides back in and Morrison goes to meet him and Jericho swings a right hand at Morrison that seems to catch Morrison perfect ... cover from Jericho ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! Jericho has won the match and has avoided retirement!
TONY CHIMEL
Here is your winner ... CHRIS JERICHO!
As Jericho exits the ring with his arm aloft, he holds one hand behind his back but the WWE cameramen are too quick for him. On Jericho’s right hand was a set of brass knucks that the referee never saw. Chris Jericho has saved himself from retirement using a set of illegal brass knucks!
MATT STRIKER
Hey, it’s the WWE, you’ve gotta’ do what you’ve gotta’ do, Michael, Jericho couldn’t afford to lose the match. Desperate men do desperate things!
MICHAEL COLE
John Morrison doesn’t look like he knows what hit him! He’s going to be majorly angry when he finds out later.
The cameras switch backstage and show Sheamus and Randy Orton on a split screen, both preparing to come out for the main event, a Street Fight for the WWE Title.
MICHAEL COLE
Our main event sees Randy Orton defend his WWE Championship against the man he beat for it, Sheamus, in a Street Fight. With this the last time that these men will meet until next year, it is imperative for both men that they win the WWE Title tonight. Can Sheamus cause another shock and become the 3-time WWE Champion? Or will Randy Orton hit another RKO to retain the title?
The camera switches to a door with a sign on it saying ‘WWE Owner: Chip Butty’ which is ajar. At a desk, Chip Butty is sat talking to somebody and shaking their hand ...
CHIP BUTTY
It’s great to have you here, tonight, welcome back!
????
It’s great to be back, Mr Butty. I can’t wait to get started!
Butty spots the camera outside the door and smiles before clicking the door closed. Who was the stranger inside his office?
JUSTIN ROBERTS
This match is set for one fall and is a Street Fight for the WWE Championship. In this match, there will be no disqualification, no count-out and falls will count anywhere in the building. The winner will be declared the WWE Champion!
The Irish born WWE superstar heads out towards the ring looking confident and pumped up despite the heat he receives on the way out. He enters the ring and throws his t-shirt off revealing his untanned white skin. He scowls out at the crowd as they continue to jeer him, thumping his chest and throwing out his arms, until ...
The crowd erupt at the sound of Orton’s music and turn their attention towards the stage where the WWE Champion appears, slowly walking down the aisle towards the ring and carrying the WWE Championship in his right hand. He enters the ring and heads for the corner of the ring to pose with his title held high. Thousands of camera flashes follow him round as Sheamus chuckles to himself, clearly thinking that the title will soon be his ...
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Introducing first, the challenger ... From Dublin, Ireland, weighing 272 pounds, the Celtic Warrior ... SHEAMUS!
Sheamus pounds his chest and poses with his arms stretched wide again drawing jeers and boos from the crowd ...
JUSTIN ROBERTS
And his opponent, weighing 245 pounds, from St. Louis, Missouri ... he is the WWE Champion ... RANDY ORTON!
Orton lifts the title up high with his right hand, eyes fixed on his opponent Sheamus, a smug smile on his face ... The referee takes the WWE Title and hands it to the timekeeper before checking both men and signalling for the bell.
WWE CHAMPIONSHIP – Street Fight
Champion Randy Orton vs. Sheamus
The two competitors stand nose to nose in the centre of the ring, staring each other dead in the eyes, focused on the prize of the WWE Championship. It is Sheamus that breaks first with a right hand that Orton blocks before going after Sheamus with forearms that push the Irish man back. Sheamus hits a stiff kick to the knee of Orton to force him to back off and then hits a clothesline that sends Orton to the mat. The WWE Champion gets up as Sheamus smiles at him, slowly, calculating, menacing ... Orton and Sheamus tie up in a grapple that Sheamus gets the better of and forces Orton back into the corner, the referee asking Sheamus to break although he has no power to enforce it. Sheamus uses fists to the stomach of Orton and begins to take control before he rams Orton shoulder first through the turnbuckle and into the steel ring post. Orton crumples to the mat and Sheamus comes off the rope and delivers a kick to the side of Orton’s face that pushes the champion through the ropes and down to the floor.
Sheamus steps out of the ring carefully and grabs Orton’s arm and holds it behind his back. With his hurt shoulder exposed, Sheamus again guides Orton into the steel post, a second shoulder smash into the post in a minute. With Orton looking in pain, Sheamus whips him into the ring apron, his back taking the brunt of the pain, before powerslamming him down onto the padded area around the ring. Orton clutches his shoulder as Sheamus mocks him, stomping at his legs and arms in the same way as Orton has done in the past. Sheamus drags Orton over to the steel ring steps and sits him up against them before crashing his knee over and over into the side of Orton’s head and onto his shoulder. Orton writhes in agony and Sheamus taunts the fans, thumping his chest, clearly now confident that he will soon be the WWE Champion once again. Sheamus begins to drag Orton down the aisle and Orton tries a few half-hearted punches with his good arm but Sheamus swats him away and powerslams him a second time, this time on the metal ramp. With Orton now struggling big time, Sheamus decides to go for the first cover of the match. 1 ... 2 ... Randy Orton kicks out. Sheamus picks his opponent up and whips him into the barricade at the side of the aisle, Orton sprawled against the wall with the WWE Universe urging him on immediately behind him.
Sheamus looks up and decides to drag Orton to the stage area. Sheamus exposes Orton’s bad shoulder one more time and sends Orton crashing shoulder first into the screens, one panel blacking out at the force of Orton’s body. Orton falls to the ground and Sheamus looks for the 3-count again ... 1 ... 2 ... Randy Orton will not give up! Sheamus picks up Orton and holds him by the head, calculating his next move ... he decides to throw Orton off the stage area, four feet to the hard, unpadded floor, Orton landing on his side and writhing in agony on the floor as Sheamus thumps his chest and signals a title belt around his waist. He jumps down and covers Orton again ... 1 ... 2 ... Orton kicks out again! Sheamus now looks frustrated but backs away several yards, waiting for Orton to stagger up, ready to end the match and win back the WWE Championship. He waits and waits and then dashes over, lift his big right boot and looks for a Brogue Kick to the head of Orton. However, Orton ducks and hits a quick drop kick that staggers Sheamus back into the wall around the arena.
MICHAEL COLE
Orton with the dropkick, can he make an astonishing comeback here?
MATT STRIKER
What has Sheamus got to do to beat this guy, Randy Orton?
Sheamus looks shocked as he shakes his head and goes back onto the offensive. However, Orton now looks fired up and he starts to offload on the Celtic Warrior and they tumble over a barricade together into the fans. Orton uses forearms and well placed kicks to force Sheamus back through the crowd before whipping him onto a set of stairs back first that leaves Sheamus in trouble. Orton covers and the referee counts ... 1 ... 2 ... Sheamus kicks out angrily and tries to escape from Orton, heading back through the crowd towards the ring. Orton holds him up near an exit from the arena and slams Sheamus into the wall and a set of doors before hitting a knee high underneath the chin of Sheamus. As Orton continues the assault, Sheamus begins to crawl and stagger towards the barricade around the ring area. As Orton approaches him, Sheamus suddenly hits a quick low blow to Orton to stop the champion’s momentum before throwing him into and over the barricade to the outside of the ring.
With Orton near the announce table, Sheamus picks up several wires and looks to choke Orton with them. However, Orton pushes Sheamus away into the ring post as he looks to put some distance between them. Sheamus counters with a punch to the face and the two start trading blows outside the ring ... the crowd cheers for Orton’s punches and boos for Sheamus’ but it is the Irish superstar that gets the better of the situation. Sheamus plants Orton’s head into the announce table and with the champion down on the floor, Sheamus looks under the ring apron for a weapon that he can legally use in the match. He pulls out a sledgehammer and holds it up laughing out loud before casting it away to the side of the announce table. He then pulls out a Kendo Stick and proceeds to set up to use it on Orton.
MICHAEL COLE
All legal here in this Street Fight for the WWE Championship. Sheamus with the Kendo Stick!
Sheamus whacks the Kendo stick across the bare, exposed back of Randy Orton and the sound echoes around the arena as do the moans of the crowd and the cry of pain from the WWE Champion. Two more Kendo stick shots to the back of Orton follow and he stumbles into the ring to escape from Sheamus. The Celtic Warrior follows and looks for the pin, hooking Orton’s leg ... 1 ... 2 ...barely a kick out from Orton who looks in desperate trouble now. Sheamus confronts the referee for a moment before running at Orton who is starting to get to his feet ... suddenly, Orton lifts up Sheamus and hits a powerslam before sinking to his knees in agony again. The referee signals that he cannot count either man out in a Street Fight and both men start to come round and get to their feet. Sheamus is up first and looks across at Orton before running to him looking for the Brogue Kick for the second time tonight. However, bad luck for Sheamus, Orton avoid the boot again and catches Sheamus with Orton’s version of the backbreaker instead, using his own back to punish Sheamus. With Sheamus down, Orton exacts revenge as he stomps the limbs of his opponent, taking his time and stomping ankles, knees, elbows whilst continuing to clutch at his own shoulder. Big marks show on the back of the WWE Champion as he falls to the mat and starts punching the canvas ... setting himself, waiting, watching as the fans cheer and shout with anticipation ... RKO from Orton! No! Sheamus escapes and falls into the ropes, straddling the middle rope ...
Orton looks frustrated but determined and goes after Sheamus, dragging him back through the ropes setting up his patented DDT off the middle rope. Sheamus fights but Orton holds tight and falls to the mat, smashing Sheamus face first as the crowd go wild. With Sheamus down and out, Orton looks around at the WWE Universe as they chant ‘RKO!’ but Orton looks strange and seems to have a different idea. He pulls back into the corner of the ring as Sheamus gets to his hands and knees and it becomes clear. Randy Orton is going to punt Sheamus in the skull! Sheamus’ head is exposed and Orton runs across, swinging his foot like a footballer ... Sheamus moves out at the last second, gets quickly to his feet and hits the ropes. Brogue Kick! Sheamus levels Orton with a boot to the head and covers the champion. Is it going to be a new WWE Champion? 1 ... 2 ... No! Randy Orton kicks out of Sheamus’ Brogue Kick and the Celtic Warrior cannot believe it!
Sheamus stamps his feet and kicks out at the ropes as he looks devastated. He regains his composure though and places Orton’s head between his legs. The High Cross! Sheamus grabs Orton round the waist and lifts him up over his head and onto his back. Sheamus readjusts his hands and Orton takes his chance to fight out of the hold, sliding down Sheamus’ back and out of the ring. Sheamus follows but Orton has found the Kendo stick and waffles Sheamus across the chest and then his back to the cheers of the crowd. Sheamus writhes in pain on the floor with red marks on his pale white skin and Orton drags him and tosses him back into the ring before sliding in himself and setting himself for the RKO again. Orton waits and waits and then pounces ... RKO! Sheamus is down! Orton with the pin ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! No, Sheamus kicks out! Unbelievable! What fight the Irish star is showing here!
Orton sits in the corner disbelieving as Sheamus lies flat on his stomach, trying to force himself up ... As both men get to their feet, Sheamus staggering, Orton goes after him again. Right hands from Orton force Sheamus back into the corner where he smashes his forehead into the turnbuckle pad. Orton lifts Sheamus onto the top rope and gets to the middle rope himself ... can he suplex Sheamus here? Orton struggles to lift Sheamus but gets him up and drops back ... suplex from the top rope to Sheamus! However, both men are down on the mat now. Who will get up first? It’s Orton who gets to his knees and sets himself for another RKO! Surely this time it will win him the match ... Randy Orton leaps and goes for his finishing move ... Sheamus swats him aside and hits the Brogue Kick again instead! Sheamus drags a prone Orton up and lifts him again for the High Cross when all of a sudden ...
MICHAEL COLE
Wait a minute!
MATT STRIKER
Oh my goodness, it’s Triple H! The Game is back!
MICHAEL COLE
And no doubt he is back for Sheamus!
Triple H rushes out dressed in jeans and a Triple H shirt and Sheamus looks at him in despair with Orton sliding off his back. Sheamus stares out at Triple H who reaches the ring and stops, staring at Sheamus with a wild look in his eyes ... Hunter raises his hand and points behind Sheamus who turns around ... RKO! Orton hits the RKO perfectly! Goes for the pin ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! Randy Orton is still the WWE Champion!
JUSTIN ROBERTS
Here is your winner and still the WWE Champion ... RANDY ORTON!
As Orton is handed the WWE Title and has his arm raised by the referee, Triple H slides into the ring and stands over Sheamus looking down on him. Orton looks across at Hunter and his face is unreadable as he walks slowly towards the Game and Sheamus. Triple H points down at Sheamus and says something to Orton who nods his head and leaves the ring leaving Triple H with Sheamus in the ring. Orton pauses though and then walks to the announcers table where he picks up the sledgehammer ... he slides it under the ropes and across the ring to Triple H with a knowing look in his eye. As Orton leaves, Triple H picks up the hammer and sets himself as Sheamus begins to get to his feet ... WHAM! Triple H launches the hammer head into the stomach of Sheamus and leaves him down on the mat in agony. Triple H then lifts up Sheamus and sets up for the Pedigree ... which he delivers to leave Sheamus a broken down mess in the centre of the ring. Triple H stands over the body of Sheamus and stares up the ramp to Orton who is stood on the stage with the WWE Title held high.
MICHAEL COLE
What a night here at No Mercy! Randy Orton retains the WWE Title and Triple H returns from injury!
MATT STRIKER
And for Sheamus, this is only the beginning! It is time for Sheamus to play the Game!
MICHAEL COLE
Goodnight everybody!
The camera fades away with Triple H still stood over Sheamus and Orton looking on in the background. The No Mercy logo shows in the corner of the screen and the pay-per-view goes off air ...