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WWE 2005: Raising the Bar.

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#1 · (Edited)
Monday Night Raw roster as of August 1st 2005

Batista- Face
Triple H- Heel
Muhammad Hassan- Heel
Shawn Michaels- Face
Chris Jericho- Face
Edge- Heel
Christian- Heel
Mr.Kennedy- Tweener
Kane- Heel
Big Show- Face
Shelton Benjamin- Face
The Great Khali-Heel
Sonjay Dutt-Heel
Goldust- Face
Mark Jindrak- Heel
Doug Basham- Face
Danny Basham-Face
William Regal- Heel
Eugene- Face
Bubba Ray Dudley- Face
D-Von Dudley-Face
Daivari-Heel
Charlie Haas- Face
Ken Doane- Heel
Nick Nemeth- Heel
Rosey- Face
Val Venis- Face
The Heart Throbs- Heel
Viscera- Face
Rob Conway- Heel
Maven- Heel
Simon Dean- Heel
Trevor Murdoch- Heel

Divas​
Trish Stratus- Face
Lita- Face
Victoria- Heel
Stacy Keibler- Face
Torrie Wilson- Face
Christy Hemme- Face
Ashley Massaro- Face
Molly Holly- Heel

Tag teams/Stables/Alliances
Dudley Boyz: Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley
Basham Brothers: Doug and Danny Basham
The Heart Throbs
Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas; The World's Greatest Tag Team
The Arabian Entity: Muhammad Hassan, Daivari, The Great Khali and Sonjay Dutt

Mark Jindrak and William Regal
Val Venis and Viscera
Ken Doane and Nick Nemeth: The Platform to Perfection
Eugene and Goldust

Others​
Jim Ross- Commentator
Jonathan Coachman- Commentator
Todd Grisham- Backstage interviewer
Maria- Backstage Interviewer
Lilian Garcia- Ring announcer
Eric Bischoff- General Manager

Friday Night Smackdown roster as of May 2nd 2005

John Cena- Face
John Bradshaw Layfield- Heel
The Undertaker- Face
Kurt Angle- Heel
Rey Mysterio- Face
Booker T- Face
Randy Orton- Heel
Rob Van Dam- Face
Carlito- Heel
Matt Hardy-Face
Orlando Jordan- Heel
Rhyno- Heel
Bobby Lashley-Face
Joey Mercury- Heel
Johnny Nitro-Heel
Chris Masters-Heel
Paul London- Face
Brian Kendrick- Face
Paul Burchill- Heel
Rene Dupree- Heel
Kenzo Suzuki- Heel
Shad Gaspard- Face
JTG- Face
Chavo Guerrero- Heel
Gregory Helms- Heel
Luther Reigns- Heel
Jamie Noble-Heel
Kid Kash- Heel
Heidenreich- Face
Tajiri-Heel
Snitsky- Heel
Sylvain Grenier- Heel
Shannon Moore- Face
Spike Dudley- Face
Scotty 2 Hotty- Face
Super Crazy- Face
Psicosis-Face
Billy Kidman- Face
Hardcore Holly- Face

Tag teams/Stables/Alliances
The Mexicools: Psicosis and Super Crazy
MNM: Joey Mercury, Johnny Nitro and Melina
Cryme Tyme: Shad Gaspard and JTG
Gregory Helms and Chavo Guerrero
Paul London and Brian Kendrick
The Pitbulls: Jamie Noble and Kid Kash
RVD and Rey Mysterio
Rene Dupree and Kenzo Suzuki
Shannon Moore and Spike Dudley

Others​
Michael Cole- Commentator
Tazz- Commentator
Tony Chimel- Ring announcer
Josh Matthews- Backstage interviewer
Teddy Long- General Manager​


Current champions​

WWE Champion: John Cena. Defeated JBL at Wrestlemania, April 3rd 2005.

World Heavyweight Champion: Batista. Defeated Triple H at Wrestlemania, April 3rd 2005.

Intercontinental champion: Shelton Benjamin. Defeated Muhammad Hassan at Summerslam, August 21st 2005.

United States Champion: Matt Hardy. Defeated Orlando Jordan at The Great American Bash, July 24th 2005.

World Tag team Champions: The Dudley Boyz. Defeated William Regal and Tajiri at Backlash, May 1st 2005.

WWE Tag team Champions: MNM. Defeated Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio at Judgment Day, May 22nd 2005.

WWE Womens Champion: Victoria Defeated Trish Stratus at Vengeance, 26th June 2005.

WWE Cruiserweight Champion: Gregory Helms. Defeated Paul London at The Great American Bash, July 24th 2005.​
 
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#216 ·

WWE Friday Night Smackdown- 9/9/05- Nashville; Tennessee​

The show begins with a replay of last week’s main event that saw The Undertaker team with Kurt Angle to take on John Cena and Kurt Angle before the chaos that ensued to finish the match as Randy Orton RKO’s his own partner and walking out on Cena as Kurt Angle then tagged himself in out of nowhere, taking his partner out from behind before covering Cena for a massive victory. We then see the aftermath of the goings on as out comes Teddy Long to announce the next number one contender. All three challengers are shown, Angle thinking he’s got it in the bag, Orton expecting to be handed it while Taker looks shocked at what’s gone on as Long then drops a bombshell that it’ll be John Cena defending the WWE Title…AGAINST THE UNDERTAKER!!

We then go the opening video before the pyro hits and Michael Cole welcomes us to proceedings here in Nashville.


Michael Cole: Welcome everyone to Friday Night Smackdown!! We come to you from Nashville, Tennessee on a night where the WWE Championship is on the line!! John Cena versus The Undertaker right here tonight, a MONUMENTAL match up!!

Tazz: No doubt about it Cole. One of the all time greats, one of the best there’s ever been, the Phenom, the Deadman, The Undertaker challengin’ one of the best young talents in the business, the never say die champion, the one and only, John Cena. I can…not…wait.

Michael Cole: That’s not all we’ve got either folks. Tonight after weeks of hype, we will witness the debut of Cryme Tyme as they accept the challenge from Jamie Noble and Kid Kash. Cryme Tyme versus The Pitbulls here tonight!!

Tazz: I can’t wait to see what Cryme Tyme are made of Cole, they’re gonna have to do somethin’ big to knock off the Pitbulls, that’s for sure.

Michael Cole: And how about this one? A Summerslam rematch. Matt Hardy goes one on one with the Apple Spitter, Carlito!! The United States Championship will NOT be on the line, however we have learned that if Carlito can defeat Matt Hardy here tonight he WILL earn himself another opportunity at Hardy’s gold. Big chance for Carlito tonight in Nashville.

‘Paparazzi’​

Cole is then cut off by the sound of MNM’s music and the Hollywood A-Listers get their usual red carpet treatment as they make their way down ringside, Melina with her usual devilish looks, Mercury and Nitro a little more cocky than they have been in recent weeks as they flash broad smiles to the snapping camera.

Michael Cole: But it would appear as though we are kicking things off with a visit from the self proclaimed A-List stars, MNM who have, well, they’ve had a rough time of it lately Tazz.

Tazz: Absolutely. Findin’ out they gotta defend those Tag Team Titles at No Mercy once AGAIN against Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio…only this time in a Ladder match. I know I wouldn’t be too happy about that!! A Ladder match puts all the advantage in the challengers corner come No Mercy, it’s an environment that RVD and Mysterio thrive in. MNM? They’ve not experienced it before, they ain’t faced it first hand and they may be in for a rude awakenin’ come October 9th.

Michael Cole: Indeed everything so far has gone the way of MNM but that may all change at No Mercy. However, last week we uh, we saw Melina take a phone call and perhaps, I mean this is just speculation on our part but perhaps Melina may have been speaking to whoever it is she paid off back at the Bash. It certainly seemed that way from what we heard and if that is the case, you’ve gotta worry about Van Dam and Mysterio’s chances.

Tazz: No matter what Melina, what MNM have up their sleeve for No Mercy, I think that they’ll go in as the underdogs. It’s up to these guys now to prove me and prove a whole lotta people wrong.

Melina has a microphone and is waiting patiently for the boos to die down as Mercury and Nitro point into the crowd angrily, clearly wanting them to be quiet and allow their third party to speak.

Melina: We’ve had a couple of weeks to take in just what we’re gonna be up against at No Mercy. We’ve had a couple of weeks since Teddy Long stood in this ring and he embarrassed himself by announcing my boys would be defending their Tag Team Titles once again against those LOSERS…Van Dam and Mysterio. Not…(huffs) and not just defending them in any kinda match either, no, no. Teddy announced that it would be in(again huffs)…it would be in a Ladder match.

Strong pop for that as Melina smiles sarcastically.

Melina: So not only do my boys have to face a team they’ve already beaten THREE times, they have to do it in a match that suits their opponents, in a match that fits their opponents style, in a match that MNM have never…competed in.

More cheers for that as Melina snarls.

Melina: So I gotta ask, how…how on earth is that fair?

Melina’s clearly riled now as the fans get on her back, Nitro and Mercury telling them to shut up.

Melina: It’s not, nothing about that match is fair. And all of this comes around because Teddy Long wants the Tag Team Titles, wants OUR…Tag Team Titles around the waists of his little buddies. Cos let me assure you, that’s exactly what this whole thing's about. Teddy Long wants all the titles around this place to be in the possession of ‘his guys’.

Melina scrunches her face up, disgusted by this.

Melina: What do I mean by ‘his guys’? Well it’s really easy to understand. His guys are the people who get handed things on a plate. His guys are the people who win nothing yet STILL, yet still…they get everything. Opportunities, chances, you name it, they get it. Rob Van Dam, Rey Mysterio, John Cena, Matt Hardy, Paul London, Bobby Lashley, they’re all perfect examples.

Pops for every mention of those superstars.

Melina: MNM? MNM aren’t ‘his guys’ and why…why is that? Why are we not beloved by Teddy Long? Why are we not protected at every corner? We’re Hollywood STARS, we are Smackdown’s…hell we are the ENTIRE WWE’S A-LIST STARS!! We DESERVE respect, we deserve to be treated like ROYALTY AROUND HERE!! But what do we get? We…get…nothing.

Melina is clearly seething here as Johnny Nitro takes the microphone off of her now.

Johnny Nitro: Y’know Melina’s right. Van Dam and Mysterio have had three chances at our titles, three chances…three defeats. You turn the tables round and we get three shots at them, we have three defeats? You’d better believe we aren’t getting another shot at those titles.

Nitro shakes his head, Mercury doing likewise.

Johnny Nitro: But like Melina said, this is all because Teddy Long displays BLATANT favouritism. He shows CLEAR bias to certain superstars and in his role as Smackdown General Manager that simply can't be tolerated. His job is to be impartial, his job is to call everything he sees down the middle, not to take anybody’s side around here but what do ya know? Teddy Long’s done exactly that.

Boos for Nitro’s comments as Joey Mercury then takes over.

Joey Mercury: There’s not a whole lot more to say on the matter but I will just say that us comin’ out here and talking about Teddy Long is in no way us being bitter, this is us simply stating cold, hard FACTS.

Melina yells ‘FACTS’ as the crowd boo her screeching voice.

Joey Mercury: He’s making decisions that aren’t fair, he’s making decisions that aren’t right and it’s about damn time they come to an end so Teddy why don’t you come on out here and how bout you do the right thing for once? How bout you do the honourable thing and come out here…to resign from your position as Smackdown General Manager

MAJOR boos for this as MNM take them in their stride, not responding to them as they instead wait for the emergence of the Smackdown G.M.

‘One of a Kind/619 Remix’​

But it is not the GM who steps out, it is instead MNM’s challengers come No Mercy, Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio who emerge to a HUGE ovation, Van Dam having a mic in hand, set to address the WWE Tag Team Champions.

Rob Van Dam: Not who you’re lookin’ for right? Well me and Rey were sittin’ backstage and we couldn’t listen to much more of this crap for any longer.

Decent pop for that.

Rob Van Dam: So you think that Teddy Long’s got it in for you guys huh? That Teddy Long is biased, that he’s shown favouritism towards us?

The trio are nodding inside the ring, looking at one another confidently as they do so.

Rob Van Dam: If you call Teddy Long finally giving us the fair shot at those titles we deserve biased, then yeah, yeah maybe he is. If you call Teddy Long finally stacking the odds against you after you’ve done every little thing possible to stack ‘em your way as favouritism, then again maybe you’re right, maybe Teddy Long does show favouritism.

Mercury and Nitro applaud what Van Dam is saying.

Rob Van Dam: But this so called bias, this so called favouritism… it’s the right thing. As much as you two dudes don’t wanna believe it, we DO deserve another shot at those titles. You’ve made my life a misery. I can’t speak for Rey but there’s times where I’ve felt like I’ve reached the end of the road and that's all because of the three of you.

There’s a real serious tone to Van Dam here.

Rob Van Dam: So no matter how much you think this is unfair, how this is not right, how Teddy Long is biased and whatever other B.S you’re spewin’, this the very LEAST that we deserve for EVERYTHING you’ve put me through, for everythin’ you’ve put Rey through and you’d better believe that come No Mercy we’re gonna take the chance we’ve been waiting for.

Big time pop for this as Van Dam’s intensity shines through. Mysterio now takes the mic as Melina seems to mouth ‘Come on then, what’s your story?’

Rey Mysterio: Rob’s absolutely right. You guys don’t understand how much this has affected him, hey, it’s affected me too but this has…this has changed Rob completely. You screwed us over three times in a row and it had Rob doubting himself, it had him…well lemme put it this way…I saw a side to him that I didn’t believe existed.

Van Dam has his head down as Rey says this.

Rey Mysterio: YOU…did that to him. It’s because of you that for the last few months his life, my life…they’ve been hell and now you wanna whine and complain because you’re gonna have to face us one more time in a FAIR fight? That's the very least you owe us esses’.

Mysterio’s bringing it here too with his serious tone, the time for fun and games appears to be over with as Van Dam takes the mic back off of Rey.

Rob Van Dam: Rey nailed it. I don’t like to admit it but I think it’s pretty damn obvious that this whole thing’s shown a completely different side to Rob Van Dam. But here we are and I’m ready to move on, ready to step up, ready to take the both of you…hell if you wanna try it Melina, I’m ready to take all THREE of you on.

Decent pop for that as Melina rolls her eyes.

Rob Van Dam: And hey, lemme tell ya, it’s ok, we get it, we understand. All this about Teddy Long, about bias, about No Mercy being ‘unfair’, it’s just a cover up isn’t it? It’s because you’re scared aren’t ya? Melina, you know your boys next to you, when the pressure’s on, when they step in the ring and there’s ladders all around them, they’re just gonna crack right in front of your eyes, ain’t that right dudes?

Melina is shaking her head, mumbling ‘no’ as Nitro and Mercury are getting pretty angry here.

Rob Van Dam: They just aren’t gonna be able to handle Mr.Friday Night and the Master of the 619 smokin’ their asses all over Oklahoma!!

Massive pop for this as Melina now snatches the mic off of Mercury.

Melina: That’s enough, seriously, have you…have you listened to yourselves? You think we’re…you think we’re scared of you? You think my boys are scared…of you two? You really are losing it aren’t you Rob?

Boos for that comment.

Melina: We’re not scared at all, in fact we’d actually be looking forward to this match if you’d y’know…actually earned it. The only reason we’re out here ‘whining and complaining’ as you put it is because of Teddy Long and his incompetence. We’re tired of having somebody like him running an important show like this, being in charge of important people like us.

Mercury and Nitro flaunt themselves amidst more boos as Melina smirks.

Melina: You two? We aren’t gonna complain about you two, not at all because we’ve proved time and time again that we are BETTER than both of you. This match at No Mercy is gonna be the final nail in your coffin because hey, three defeats in a row is bad enough, four? Four defeats in a row? On such a big stage? In YOUR kinda match? Rob I think it really will be rock bottom don’t you?

Rob Van Dam: You sure do sound confident. I don’t…I don’t really get that. You’ve beat us three times in a row, congratulations, but each and every single time you’ve screwed us over. At No Mercy that just ain’t gonna happen. Me and Rey, we KNOW you’re scared, we KNOW you’re feelin’ the heat. A-List my ass, when you step inside that ring with us, we’ll show the world just how Z-list you truly are.

Massive pop for that, Melina looking a little irritated whilst Nitro and Mercury are yelling up the ramp before Nitro grabs the microphone off of Melina.

Johnny Nitro: Feeling the heat?! Scared?! How ‘bout you two come on down that ramp and we’ll show just how scared we are!!

A strong pop for that as Rey and RVD look on at one another, Mysterio shrugging his shoulders, Van Dam nodding his head AND THE HIGH FLIERS CHARGE DOWN TO THE RING, THE FIGHT IS ABOUT TO GET GOING!! MELINA DROPS OUT THE RING AS MERCURY AND NITRO AWAIT, VAN DAM AND REY CHARGE IN…BUT THE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS IMMEDIATELY SLIDE OUT OF THE RING!! MNM ducking the advances of their challengers here tonight!!

Michael Cole: OH DAMN IT TO HELL!! MNM called Van Dam and Mysterio to the ring, they wanted the fight but then…then they just high tailed it!! I think MNM really are scared Tazz and I don’t think anything they say is gonna change that.

Tazz: I don’t know Cole. I think this is all just mind games. Van Dam’s rattled, we know that, we’ve known that for months and hey, Melina’s right, like her or not. Four defeats in a row? It could be game over for Rey and Rob come No Mercy and that may just tear ‘em apart.

The champions and Melina are retreating up the ramp to a ton of boos as Nitro and Mercury smirk cunningly stating 'Not tonight' while Van Dam and Rey watch on angered inside the ring, pointing fingers at the men they meet come October 9th as we then head off into our first commercial break.

Commercials​

We return and we’re immediately thrust backstage where we see Kristal Marshall who is standing by all smiles as she gets ready to speak with us.

Kristal Marshall: Ladies and gentleman, joining me at this time please welcome the ‘Wrestling Machine’, Kurt Angle!!

Angle enters the scene, hands on hips and is looking furious, not even acknowledging Kristal as the fans greet him with heat.

Kristal Marshall: Kurt last week you successfully pinned the WWE Champion John Cena in your tag team match. However, you were NOT named as the next number one contender. Your thoughts on that?

Angle huffs, gritting his teeth a little bit at the question.

Kurt Angle: At Summerslam I took on John Cena for the WWE Championship…and I never lost that match. Last week I beat John Cena one, two, three in the middle of that ring and just like you said Kristal, I was NOT given another title shot. My thoughts on that? My thoughts on…that? ARE YOU FREAKIN’ KIDDIN’ ME!?!?

Angle loses it, almost spitting in Kristal’s face he’s that angry.

Kurt Angle: Who the HELL does Teddy Long think he is? I beat the WWE Champion, I pinned him, not The Undertaker, NOT ANYBODY ELSE!! But he…he’s the one who gets the title shot? The Undertaker gets a chance to come here tonight and fight for the WWE Championship? Really? A guy who has lost to Randy Orton TWICE since Wrestlemania, a guy who wouldn’t even come CLOSE…to beating me just gets…he just gets handed a title opportunity.

Angle looks pissed here as he questions the decision.

Kurt Angle: It’s wrong and Teddy Long knows it, The Undertaker himself knows it, heck even John Cena knows it!! John Cena’s back here tonight and he’s thanking GOD THAT HE HASN’T GOTTA FACE ME TONIGHT!!

Loud boos for that comment, Angle is clearly seething right now.

Kurt Angle: It’s Cena’s lucky night because he knows, he knows deep down that he just can’t get the job done against me, he can…not…beat me. A crooked referee’s helped him, a biased General Manager’s helped him but I promise… next time he won’t be so lucky.

Angle shakes his head in dismay.

Kurt Angle: Cos believe me, there WILL BE a next time and when it comes I’m gonna do the same thing I did at Summerslam and that is tear John Cena apart. Only this time? This time I’m gonna finish the job off, I’m gonna add in what I did last week and that’s put his shoulders down to the mat and listen to that sweet sound as the referee counts one…two…three.

Kristal Marshall: Well Kurt if I may ask, what if John Cena doesn’t walk out here tonight as WWE Champion? Will you then be targeting The Undertaker?

Angle doesn’t respond to the question right away, instead thinking for a moment.

Kurt Angle: The WWE Championship is all I’m targeting and that means whether it’s Cena or whether it’s The Undertaker, I’m gonna be gunnin’ for ‘em. Teddy Long can stop me getting a title shot tonight…what…what the hell do you want?

Angle looks puzzled as he poses the question and the camera then shifts…and we see Randy Orton has entered the shot with a smirk on his face. The Legend Killer getting a chorus of boos from the Nashville faithful.

Randy Orton: What do I want? Kurt I want the exact same thing you do. You might have won that match last week but you only won it…because of me.

Orton now smirks at a still pissed off Angle.

Randy Orton: Let's face it, if i didn't hit Cena with the RKO last week you wouldn't have a leg to stand on here tonight. That title shot should be mine, not yours, not Undertaker’s…mine.

Kurt Angle: Yeah, yeah because hitting an RKO on your partner is a sure fire way to earn a title shot, right? Did you even hear what Teddy Lo…

Randy Orton: Oh I heard loud and clear what Teddy Long said Kurt but guess what? I don’t give a DAMN what Teddy Long says. He needs to do what’s best for this show and whether he likes it or not, I am the very BEST thing on this show and I deserve, I NEED…to be WWE Champion.

Orton’s getting a little worked up here, neither man backing down.

Kurt Angle: Well you aren’t the only one who feels that way Randy. You’re in it for yourself, you look after number one, I get that and I’m the exact same way. I don’t care about John Cena, I don’t care about The Undertaker, I don’t care about ANYBODY, all I care about is the WWE Championship being around my waist again.

Randy Orton: Well that’s one thing we have in common Kurt but that’s where it ends.

Kurt Angle: No, no, see that’s where you’re wrong. We got a LOT more in common than you think. As much as I don't wanna admit it, I'm big enough to do it and say that we’re both being held back, we’re both being denied what we want. But the question...is why? Why are we being held back? Why are we being denied what we want, what we've EARNED. It’s because Teddy Long wants us as far away from that title as we can possibly be.

Orton’s interest has picked up now as he tilts his head curiously at Angle’s words.

Kurt Angle: Face the facts Randy. You beat The Undertaker not once, but TWICE. Not a whole lot of people can say that. Me on the other hand? I beat John Cena last week, I got beaten at Summerslam ONLY…because of a crooked referee and yet do either of us get even a sniff of a title shot?

Orton now folds his arms listening in to Angle.

Kurt Angle: No, no we don’t. So you might not wanna admit it but we DO have a lot in common and I think it’s time we start putting that into practice.

Angle now smiles, Orton seemingly confused.

Randy Orton: Wh-what do you mean ‘into practice’?

Kurt Angle: Well if Teddy Long won’t give us what we want…I say we don’t let him have what he wants.

Angle is now chuckling to himself, Orton silent before he unfolds his arms.

Randy Orton: I don’t…I don’t like you Kurt and to be honest I don’t even agree with you on a whole lot of what you just said. But I DO agree that this is all because of Teddy Long and I DO agree that something…something needs to be done about it.

Kurt Angle: That’s all I wanted to hear…I got a plan.

And with that the camera zooms in on a beaming smile upon Kurt Angle’s face as we then fade out back to ringside where we hear…

‘A Country Boy Can Survive’​

It’s the music of the Pitbulls who come out to a small amount of boos, all set for action after they angrily called out the imminently debuting Cryme Tyme.

Michael Cole: Well I have got no idea just what Kurt Angle has in store here tonight but onto the action and Tazz last week we saw these two men issue a challenge for right here tonight, that challenge was to Cryme Tyme who will make their Smackdown debut right here in Nashville. Kash and Noble were, well, they were complaining that they’re undervalued here on Smackdown.

Tazz: That ain’t all Cole. They seem to think that Cryme Tyme are gonna show up around here and just get handed the things they haven’t been. I don’t…I got a lot of respect for these two guys but I don’t know why they’re thinkin’ like that. We’ll see exactly what Cryme Tyme have got here tonight.

‘Bringin’ Da Hood 2 U’​

Out next to a fairly decent pop considering it’s their debut are the boys from Brooklyn themselves, JTG and Shad Gaspard, Cryme Tyme who high five the fans on their way down the ramp, looking pumped up as Kash and Noble watch on furiously.

Michael Cole: Well here they are Tazz!! The boys from Brooklyn who in their words ‘Ain’t steal Nuttin’!!

Tazz: Cole don’t ever say that again.

Michael Cole: Ha ha, well partner it’s their words not mine and Cryme Tyme have said that even though they don’t steal anything, nine times out of ten Cryme Tyme still gets what they want.

Tazz: Hey, we’re about to find out.

Match One: Tag Team Match

The Pitbulls vs Cryme Tyme

Jamie Noble starts things off for the Pitbulls whilst it’s the smaller member of Cryme Tyme that begins, JTG and it’s a rough start for the debuting tandem as Noble assumes control following several early exchanges, finally flooring the ‘hood’ superstar with a beautiful snap suplex.

Noble continues to work over the very lively JTG, stomping away with his usual stiff kicks before dropping a knee right across the throat of his opponent, JTG gasping for air as Noble goes to work with an array of right hands now. After a spell on top, Noble drags JTG towards his corner, tagging in Kid Kash before a final kick to the chest as Kash picks up where Noble left off, stomping the hell out of a struggling debutant. We see Shad on the apron, encouraging his partner, the crowd trying to do the same as Kash tells them all to shut up which draws strong heat. Kash then drags JTG to his feet, striking with several forearms before an Irish whip, JTG rebounds and Kash strikes with a pinpoint dropkick, cover by Kash, kick out at two.

Kash looks to continue wearing JTG down, striking with kicks across the mid section before dragging his opponent to his feet, striking with a knee to the gut before an Irish whip, JTG rebounds and Kash goes for an arm drag, JTG though fights it, spins round and takes Kash down with an arm drag of his own! JTG now assuming control as Kash is quickly up but JTG strikes, clothesline, another clothesline and a third before he runs the ropes and connects with a swinging neckbreaker!! Beautiful from JTG, into a cover, 1…2…kick out at two from Kash!!

JTG brings Kash to his feet, dragging him over to his corner now and he tags in the big man, Shad Gaspard who storms in and goes right to work, big right hands to the gut before an Irish whip, Kash rebounds and Shad goes for a big boot, Kash ducks it, Shad spins round and Kash goes for a boot, Shad catches it, spins Kash away and TAKES HIS HEAD OFF WITH A CLOTHESLINE!! Huge impact as we hear JTG yell out ‘Chyeahhh’, the crowd popping big time as Shad covers, 1…2…NOBLE BREAKS THE COUNT!! Noble breaks the count and begins hammering away with kicks to Shad BUT HERE COMES JTG!!

JTG storms in and he sends Noble flying up and over the ropes with a thunderous clothesline!! Noble crashes down to the outside, Shad and Kash are to their feet now, Kash charges, Shad catches him, SAMOAN DROP AND JTG WITH A RUNNING CORKSCREW NECKBREAKER!! BEAUTIFUL DOUBLE TEAM!! Cover by Shad…1…2…3…HE GOT HIM!!


Winners: Cryme Tyme(7:19)

Michael Cole: Hugely impressive debut here tonight by the boys from Brooklyn!! Cryme Tyme victorious and if that’s anything to go by, these two are gonna make quite the impact here on Smackdown!!

Tazz: Beautiful move to finish off Kid Kash there Cole. I dunno what they call that thing but it looks lethal. These guys might not need to steal anything after all, they might just damn take it anyway!! Kash and Noble ain’t no slouches but that was impressive.

JTG is bopping along in the ring, Shad smiling and dancing along also as the crowd buy into the ‘street’ duo on their Friday Night Smackdown debut. The two men then exit the ring, a jubilant crowd wanting any chance they can to get a high five, JTG obliging as he nods his head along to their theme music, Shad yelling out ‘It’s what we do baby’ as we then get a shot of a laid out Kid Kash and a furious Jamie Noble coming to his side. The Pitbulls are eyeing up the troublesome twosome who back up the ramp, JTG letting out a final ‘Chyeaaah’ for good measure as we fade out.

Commercials​

We return from the break and we’re taken into the office of Teddy Long who is sorting out some paperwork at his desk, nothing too major going on for T-Long right now before he’s interrupted by Josh Matthews as Long stands up and greets the pest that he is.

Josh Matthews: Excuse me Teddy, could we get a quick word on all that we’ve heard so far tonight on Smackdown?

Teddy Long: Sure thing playa.

Josh Matthews: Well I don’t know if you’ve heard everything that’s been said about you tonight but there’s been some pretty strong words from MNM, from Kurt Angle, from Randy Orton and I was just wondering how you felt about some of the claims from your own superstars?

Long looks a little bit irritated, the comments perhaps having irked him.

Teddy Long: Listen Josh I ain’t heard every word they said here tonight but I got the gist of it. They ain’t happy wit’ my decisions, they ain’t happy wit’ their positions but believe me dawg, I show absolutely NO BIAS around here, ya understand?

Matthews nods, listening in.

Teddy Long: MNM got themselves into the mess they’re in and believe me, they gonn’ have to get themselves out of it come No Mercy. Same goes for Kurt and Randy, I let ‘em know exactly what the deal was last week. They needed to co exist, they needed to show team work, they needed to prove to me I could rely on ‘em but did they do that? You damn right they didn’t.

Long’s pretty angry here, the accusations perhaps having got to him here tonight.

Teddy Long: Just like MNM, they only have themselves to blame and the only way they can get outta this is by showin’ me, by provin’ to me that they deserve to be in contention for the WWE Title.

Josh Matthews: Well Teddy that brings me to my next question, we heard earlier on from both men and Kurt Angle stated regarding our main event tonight that he had a plan. What would your message be to Kurt regarding that plan?

Teddy Long: Well so long as that plan is for the main event to run smoothly with absolutely NO interference then me and Kurt ain’t gonna have a problem. But if that plan involves ANYTHING other than that? Well to put it simply, Mr.Angle ain’t gonn’ get anywhere near that title shot he believes he deserves, ya feel me?

Long now lets out a smirk as Josh Matthews nods and thanks Teddy for his time before exiting and we return back ringside where we see the master of the worm(No, not Randy Orton TWG:side:) but Scotty 2 Hotty who is pumping up the crowd to little return before we hear…

‘Longhorn’​

And the small amount of cheers turn to a loud amount of jeers as the trademark white limo pulls up and out steps the self-proclaimed ‘Wrestling God’ who is all smiles as he removes his hat to resounding boos before heading down the ramp.

Michael Cole: Strong words from Teddy Long right there and I don’t blame him for giving that kinda warning to Kurt Angle here tonight. But we’re all set for some more action and this man has NO intention of retirement after all, instead JBL has his sights very firmly set on the demise of Bobby Lashley.

Tazz: Lashley’s an absolute beast Cole BUT JBL is as smart as they come and he’s laid the groundwork, that attack a couple weeks back woulda knocked the stuffin’ outta Bobby Lashley. He’ll be back but JBL will have got inside his head, I got no doubts about that, it’s how Lashley deals with it that’ll decide where this kid goes from here.

Match Two: Singles Match

John Bradshaw Layfield vs Scotty 2 Hotty

It’s just a total domination from Bradshaw here. Scotty fights and fights to stay alive following the usual ruthless approach from the Wall Street Warrior, taking no mercy on the master of the ‘Worm’. The end is convincing as ever from the self-proclaimed ‘Wrestling God’ as he almost beheads Scotty with a venomous Clothesline from Hell, covering Scotty for the three count, a snarl on his face almost the entire time.

Winner: John Bradshaw Layfield(3:17)

JBL kicks Scotty out of the ring for good measure, in no mood to mess around here tonight before he demands that Tony Chimel hand him a microphone. Bradshaw scowls at Chimel before snatching the mic and heading to the centre of the ring to make an address.

John Bradshaw Layfield: THAT was impressive. THAT was eye catching. THAT was what you call… total domination.

Layfield now manages to muster up a smile.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Every single one of those things are what you just witnessed but every single one of those things are what big, bad Bobby Lashley has been labelled too since he came to the WWE. I’ve sat in the back and had to listen to that little nerd down there Michael Cole tellin’ everybody just what Bobby Lashley is capable of, I’ve heard it all. Well I got news for ya, they’re all lies.

JBL nods, a defiance in him as the crowd boos.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Bobby Lashley is a dime a dozen, I’ve seen his kind before and that’s why it makes me SICK…to hear people labellin’ this kid as the next big thing, as the future, as a WWE Champion in the makin’. That couldn’t be ANY further from the truth.

Bradshaw appears to raise the intensity levels here now.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Like I said, I’ve seen his type before, I’ve seen these…these physical specimens burst onto the scene and sometimes they…they take your breath away, they do. Power, speed, athleticism, you name it, they’ve got it but guys like Bobby Lashley, they come…and then they go.

Layfield holds his left hand up now for all to see, his fingers.

John Bradshaw Layfield: One, two, three, four, five(tapping a finger for each number). Five…five minutes this kid’s been in this company, five minutes this kid’s been on MY show and DAMN IT TO HELL, HE WILL NOT…he will not be labelled things, he will not be handed things that he doesn’t deserve.

Strong heat for JBL getting fired up there.

John Bradshaw Layfield: It took me eight years to reach the very top of this company, eight long years before I got my hands on the most coveted prize in this business. EIGHT LONG YEARS OF BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS!! But…but now people just expect me to stand by and let some punk kid come and take my spot?

The Wall Street Warrior questions that.

John Bradshaw Layfield: Not a chance. I don’t like and I don’t respect people who just walk into things and they just get handed somethin’ without workin’ a freakin’ second for it. Bobby Lashley is the prime example. That’s why I did what I did two weeks ago, that’s why I targeted him a month back, that’s why I WILL NOT STOP…until I’ve made him work for every inch he gets around here.

More strong heat for JBL here.

John Bradshaw Layfield: I want him to go through the pain that I’ve felt. I want him to suffer like I’ve suffered, I want him to GET HIS ASS KICKED SO BADLY HE DOUBTS HE’LL EVER COME BACK!! Cos that’s what I’ve felt…oh yes sir, I’ve felt it ALL! I’ve worked too damn hard to let a guy like him waltz all over me which is why I’m here tonight with a challenge in mind.

Bradshaw now begins smiling, the crowd wondering just what the challenge may be.

John Bradshaw Layfield: A challenge that’ll see what this kid’s REALLY got, a challenge that’ll show each and every one of you people why Bobby Lashley is simply a flash in the pan. I want Bobby Lashley one on one at No Mercy but I don’t just want any kinda match, no, beating him…it just ain’t enough. I wanna make Bobby Lashley go through EVERYTHING I’ve felt, go through EVERYTHING I’ve suffered, I want Bobby Lashley to go through a FIGHT, I wanna make...him...bleed. Me and Lashley, No Mercy…a First Blood match.

Wow. Pretty big pop for that as Layfield has laid down the challenge.

John Bradshaw Layfield: I know you ain’t here tonight kid, I know you’re back home recoverin’ from the beatin’ I dealt to ya but I want you to think about this challenge and I want you to think about it REAL good. October 9th you got a chance to prove to me, prove to them, prove to EVERYBODY you are somethin’ more than a one trick pony. BUT…lemme warn ya, at No Mercy you might think you’re bein’ some kinda tough guy takin’ me on, you might think this is gonna make your career but I GUARANDAMNTEE it ain’t gonna make it, Bobby…it’s gonna break it.

And with that Layfield flashes his winning smile and drops the mic to a chorus of boos, the challenge very firmly laid down here tonight to Bobby Lashley.

Michael Cole: Challenge made and it is a HUGE one from JBL. The Wall Street Warrior versus the ‘Real Deal’ in a First Blood match at No Mercy!! Can you imagine it Tazz? It would be an all out fight in Houston!!

Tazz: Damn straight Cole. Bobby Lashley’s got a lotta thinkin’ to do. He’s beaten everyone and everything in his path so far but a guy like JBL in a match like that is gonna be a whole different ball game. HUGE challenge for Lashley IF…if he accepts. I got a feelin’ the Dominator ain’t gonna back down.

We see JBL step back into his limousine and he waves to the crowd, smiling and grinning only to receive a chorus of boos to which he scowls and yells ‘TO HELL WITH YOU AND TO HELL WITH BOBBY LASHLEY’.

Commercials​

We return and go straight into a video package…

We see a dark room with a simple spotlight as some end of the world esque, dark music plays and into that spotlight steps Randy Orton.

Narrator: There are those who show no respect.

Orton stands in the spotlight and smirks before we then cut to footage from Summerslam where Orton hammers The Undertaker with a deadly RKO counter to the chokeslam.

We go again back to that spotlight where this time stands Rob Van Dam who plays with his hands as if warming up for battle, a fierce look on his face.

Narrator: There are those who have no regrets.

We see action of Van Dam following MNM backstage before we see footage from The Great American Bash of Van Dam kicking Joey Mercury’s head off before a shot of Van Dam exhausted having laid it all on the line.

We once more go back to the spotlight, the same eerie music playing but it’s slowly picking up pace as into the light comes Carlito, apple in hand as he tosses it up and down.

Narrator: There are those who show no class.

Footage from Summerslam where Carlito ambushed Matt Hardy backstage is shown before we see Lito’s trademark as he spits apple into the face of Hardy, a wry smile on his face after doing so.

Again we go back to the spotlight, this time there stands the WWE Champion himself, John Cena who proudly points down at the title around his waist.

Narrator: There are those who show no fear.

We then see shots of Cena tearing into John Bradshaw Layfield in their bloody Last Man Standing match at Judgment Day before we see more action from Cena defending his title at the Bash against Layfield, Angle and Orton before a final image of Cena holding his title up high.

Narrator: And then there are those who show…No Mercy.

And with that we get a shot of a roaring Kurt Angle appear into the spotlight before footage of Angle putting Shawn Michaels in the Ankle Lock before more victims falling at the hands of Angle’s ruthless streak including John Cena, Randy Orton and Rob Van Dam as the dark music really kicks into gear before slowly dying down again and we get flashing images of Angle, Cena, Carlito, Van Dam and finally Randy Orton before a dramatic, sudden stop to the music.​


Returning from the video package and we’re straight backstage where once again Josh Matthews is set for an interrogation on some poor soul.

Josh Matthews: Ladies and gentleman, he defends the WWE Championship right here tonight in Nashville, please welcome, John Cena!!

Cena enters to a strong pop, a few boos thrown in however as clearly there are some fans firmly in The Undertaker’s camp tonight.

Josh Matthews: John tonight you go one on one with The Undertaker for your WWE Championship. Before we get your thoughts on that match, can we just ask you if you believe The Undertaker does deserve this opportunity ahead of both Kurt Angle and Randy Orton?

Cena huffs a little bit, tipping his cap down before looking back up at Matthews.

John Cena: Tough question, really, I mean I can see it both ways. I get why Kurt Angle’s frustrated, I get why Randy Orton’s frustrated but Josh I TOTALLY get why The Undertaker’s the man I’m facin’ here tonight.

Decent pop for that.

John Cena: Teddy Long made it pretty damn clear last week just what was goin’ down. He wanted to see who’d impress him, he wanted to see who he could trust, he wanted to see who would put their issues aside for ONE night and get on with the job. The Undertaker did exactly that. Kurt? Randy? They couldn’t do it, for just one night…and they still couldn’t do it. For that? I ain’t got any sympathy with ‘em.

Cena shakes his head.

John Cena: Where I do have sympathy for ‘em is the fact that when it comes to winnin’ and losin’, well, they ain’t done a whole lotta losin’ lately. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Kurt Angle DOES deserve another shot at this(points at the title). Him beatin’ me last week, it was controversial but it goes down in the record books as Kurt Angle beat…John Cena.

Boos for that, Cena clearly not happy.

John Cena: Randy Orton’s in that same boat, he beat The Undertaker at Summerslam, ain’t nobody debatin’ it, that’s as impressive as it gets, worthy of a title shot? I wouldn’t have complained but hey, those two know damn well they’ve only got themselves to blame.

Small pop at that as Cena smirks a little to himself.

Josh Matthews: Well with that out of the way attention turns to tonight and your opponent The Undertaker. How are you feeling about facing the Phenom and do you believe you will leave Nashville tonight still as the WWE Champion?

John Cena: I got nothin’ but respect for The Undertaker, the guy’s a legend in this business and I know it’s gonna be one of, if not THE most difficult match I’ve faced as champion so far. But do I believe I’m gonna walk out still holdin’ this title?

Cena holds the title out in front of him, both he and Matthews looking at.

John Cena: You bet your ass I do.

Big time pop for that.

John Cena: As much respect as I have for the Deadman, I hold NO FEAR about facin’ him. I’m the WWE Champion for a reason and it don’t matter whether it’s Angle, Orton, Undertaker, whoever, this championship means that I’m the guy on top. This championship means that I’m the best around here and until somebody takes it from me, ain’t nothin’ gonna change my opinion and ain’t nothin’ gonna phase me.

Cena’s determination is evident.

John Cena: No matter what gets in my way here tonight, no matter how much The Undertaker throws at me, I ain’t no bettin’ man but if I was? I’d bet that this time next week, the champ will STILL…be here.

Cena raises his title high to a strong pop once again before we head off elsewhere backstage.

As we’re taken to the parking lot where we see the trio that consist of the A-Listers, Melina, Nitro and Mercury, MNM who appear to be exiting the arena. Melina has a miserable look on her face, Nitro and Mercury are carrying their bags and are having a bit of a laugh and a joke together. The trio approach their limousine but just as Nitro opens the door, we see the trio’s driver enter the scene…


Driver: Ermm, sorry to delay our departure but I was handed this envelope a few minutes ago. Was told to pass it on to you, apparently it’s important.

With that Melina takes the envelope and all three of the Hollywood ‘stars’ look very apprehensive as Melina opens it up slowly, the driver leaving the scene and returning to the front of the limo as Melina shares a look of fear almost with Nitro and Mercury. All three then read what appears to be a letter inside the envelope but they read it fairly quickly, perhaps not a lot has been written?

Johnny Nitro: A better offer?

Joey Mercury: He’s bluffing, who…who would…

Johnny Nitro: He might be bluffing but we can’t take that chance Joey. We’re countin’ on hi…

Melina: Alright, alright. He might…he might be bluffing but guys…he might not and Johnny’s right, we can’t take that chance.

Joey Merucry: So what do we do?

Melina: Simple, we need to match that offer…and go beyond it.

Nitro and Mercury huff.

Johnny Nitro: We’ve already offered so much though, how much more have we got to give?

Melina: Look let’s talk about this on the way back, I’m sure we can work this whole thing out.

And with that Melina runs her hand through her hair frustrated with what she’s found out, Nitro and Mercury now longer buzzing, instead their body language shifts to head down as they enter the limo, MNM’s plans perhaps being scuppered.

We then head off back to ringside where we hear…

‘Cool’​

And there’s instant heat as the music of the Apple Spitter hits and out steps Friday night’s coolest superstar, Carlito who is all set for action.

Michael Cole: Big opportunity here tonight for the Apple Spitter who became involved in a pretty heated rivalry leading towards Summerslam with Matt Hardy over the United States Title. Despite suffering defeat there Carlito hasn’t given up hope of capturing that title and a win here tonight for Carlito WILL earn him another shot at Hardy with that United States title on the line

Tazz: Major chance for Carlito here tonight, got that right Cole. Matt Hardy pulled it off big time at Summerslam, probably one of the best performances in Hardy’s career and Carlito knows he’s gonna have to be on top of his game here tonight and if he comes through this? He’s gonna have to do it all over again when the title’s on the line.

‘Live for the Moment’​

As Carlito waits in the ring, the crowd go wild upon hearing the music of the United States Champion Matt Hardy who storms out, eyes firmly fixed on his opponent.

Michael Cole: Well like you said Tazz Matt Hardy put on a heck of a performance at Summerslam and he’s been on a huge roll ever since coming to Friday Night Smackdown. Do you believe this is only the beginning for our United States Champion?

Tazz: Absolutely. I don’t see any reason why Matt Hardy can’t go from strength to strength. He’s been as impressive as it gets since he came here, you’re right on Cole. Carlito ain’t gonna be easy, I would never write Carlito off BUT Matt Hardy’s on a hot streak and I can’t see it changin’.

Match Three: Singles Match

Matt Hardy vs Carlito

Hardy starts this thing off on the front foot, Carlito having no answer to the red hot champion who appears as though he can’t be stopped right now, hammering away at Carlito with right hand after right hand before taking him down with a big time clothesline, the fans right behind the U.S Champion from the get go.

Hardy continues to mount the pressure, dropping Lito with a big shoulder block before a beautiful vertical suplex sees Hardy score the first pinfall attempt of the match, Lito kicking out at two, a dazed look on his face as he struggles to keep pace with the blistering start from Hardy. Finally though, a turning point for the Apple Spitter. Hardy looking to keep the tempo high pulls Lito to his feet, goes for an Irish whip, Lito hangs onto the ropes however as Hardy comes steaming in, clothesline over the top!! BUT LITO COUNTERS AND PULLS THE TOP ROPE DOWN!! Hardy goes spiralling up and over, a change in momentum now.

Lito now takes full control and works on Hardy from head to toe on the outside, stomping the hell out of the champion, no remorse as he intelligently picks apart Hardy. The referee’s countout not deterring the ‘Coolest’ superstar on Friday nights as he uses the time to his advantage, bringing Hardy to his feet before SLAMMING his head against the announce table!! Hardy falls aback as Lito now displays his usual cocky demeanour, taking in the heat from the crowd. The count is now at six as Lito grabs Hardy by the arm, that arrogant smirk on his face which changes quickly into a no nonsense look as he WHIPS HARDY FACE FIRST INTO THE RING POST!! Lito really turning the tide in this one as Hardy is floored, the count now approaching eight as the Apple Spitter has to quickly get Hardy back to his feet and inside the ring, as he follows right behind.

The pressure continues from Hardy’s former challenger to the U.S Title as he continues stomping the hell out of Hardy, the champion looking a little worse for wear here as Lito brings Hardy to his feet, Irish whip and Hardy rebounds right into a boot to the gut and a beautiful DDT from Lito!! Cover, 1…2…kick out at two and a half from Hardy, Lito coming within a whisker there. Lito doesn’t let it phase him though as he again goes in for the kill, Hardy down and out and LITO STRIKES WITH A SPRINGBOARD MOONSAULT!! Great athleticism from Carly there, cover again, 1…2…kick out again at two from Hardy.

The champion finally gets a stranglehold back on the match though as Carlito heads up to the top rope, waiting for Hardy to rise, as the champion does so, Lito soars, MISSILE DROPKICK!! NOBODY HOME!! Carlito crashes and burns as Hardy rests on the apron, taking a breather before heading right after the Puerta Rican star. Lito rises to his feet and Hardy swings a right, Lito ducks it, Lito swings, Hardy blocks it, boot to the gut from Hardy, SIDE EFFECT!! CONNECTS!! Lito is floored and Hardy is feeling it now, the crowd fully behind the man who ‘Will not Die’.

Hardy now heads to the top rope, the end in sight for him here as Lito’s helpless. Hardy lets out a roar before flying through the sky, LEG DROP OFF THE TOP CRUSHING CARLTIO ACROSS THE CHEST!! The fans are going wild as Hardy scrambles into the cover, 1…2…3…NO!! Lito just about gets the shoulder up!! Hardy shakes his head but returns to his feet quickly…as he signals for the Twist of Fate!! Carlito groggily sits up, no idea of his whereabouts as he staggers to his feet, Hardy spins him round, boot to the gut, Twist of Fate, NO!! LITO FIGHTS OUT OF IT, GRABS HARDY FROM BEHIND, BACKSTABBER!! BACKSTABBER FROM OUT OF NOWHERE!! Cover, 1…2…3…HE GOT HIM!! LITO WINS IT!!


Winner: Carlito(10:01)

Michael Cole: HE GOT HIM!! Carlito from out of nowhere!! Carlito has earned himself a United States Title shot and…and Matt Hardy…Matt Hardy can’t believe it!!

Tazz: Hardy can’t believe it? I can’t believe it either!! Hardy looked to have this thing won but Carlito from outta freakin’ nowhere, a HUGE win for the Apple Spitter baby!! Major props to Carlito right there. Matt Hardy knows exactly what he’s dealin’ with now and it might be a whole lot harder than he ever thought it was gonna be.

Michael Cole: A major victory for Carlito here tonight and the Apple Spitter WILL get another shot at the United States title. This rivalry is a long way from over!!

Lito is overjoyed as he backs up the ramp, his arm raised by the official, all smiles as he stares right back at a disappointed Matt Hardy who can’t quite believe he’s lost this one having seemingly been in control. Hardy shakes his head in disbelief before seemingly telling Carlito that ‘Next time can’t come soon enough’. Carlito simply smiles all the more and winks in Hardy’s direction, only angering the U.S Champion further as we go to a break.

Commercials​

Coming back from the commercials we’re led to a dark room where all we can hear are footsteps. The camera then shows us two feet in black boots before the shot rises up the man’s body and it’s revealed as the Phenom himself, The Undertaker who stares a hole through the camera, the image of the Deadman greeted with a massive pop from the crowd.

The Undertaker: John Cena…you’ve overcome obstacle after obstacle, challenge after challenge but there is no challenge that can prepare you for your fate tonight.

Taker still has that crazy, eye bulging look on his face.

The Undertaker: When you step inside the ring with the dead, you step into the unknown. We all fear what we don’t know and John Cena you are no different. On the outside you shows strength, you show bravery, you show no fear but on the inside…on the inside just like those before you, you have weakness, you have doubts, you ARE…afraid.

Taker is very cold in the manner of his speech here.

The Undertaker: Tonight John Cena you will meet your destiny, you will fear what stands before you, you will see the WWE Title taken from your grasp and John Cena, you will…REST…IN…PEACE.

And with that chilling message Taker’s eyes roll back and he imitates his infamous throat slash, the crowd going crazy for the Deadman as we then head back to ringside.

‘I’ll do Anything’​

It’s the music of Shannon Moore who storms out full of energy accompanied to the ring by his partner Spike Dudley with Moore all set for some singles action here tonight.

Michael Cole: Well Carlito’s gonna put that theory to the test when he and Matt Hardy do collide for the United States Championship. I’m pretty sure Hardy’s gonna have something to say about those claims. Moving onto tonight though and folks of course our HUGE main event still to come as John Cena defends the WWE Championship agains The Undertaker but right now we’re all set for some Cruiserweight action as Shannon Moore tangles with the current champion, Gregory Helms.

Tazz: Huge chance for Moore tonight. Paul London’s the number one contender, Paul London’s the man who faces Helms at No Mercy but Shannon Moore could no doubt put himself in contention with a win here tonight, not that it’s gonna be easy.

‘Listen, it’s time’​

And there’s rousing heat as out steps the Cruiserweight Champion, basking in the boos as Gregory Helms arrives alongside his partner in crime, the Mexican Warrior, Chavo Guerrero who continuously points to the Cruiserweight title around Helms’ waist.

Michael Cole: Well these two guys have seen the numbers game continue to be their advantage, however that’s all changed now Tazz. Helms and Chavo have got the upper hand time and again over Paul London but since the Daredevil has found himself his own partner in Brian Kendrick, things have certainly changed. The odds are now even and come No Mercy, Helms and Chavo know that the Cruiserweight title may well be in jeopardy.

Tazz: Well there ain’t any doubts that the numbers game no longer plays into these two’s hands BUT I disagree wit’ you that these two guys know the title’s in jeopardy. I don’t think they do, I think Helms and Chavo are just as confident that they’re gonna walk out wit’ that belt still around the waist of Gregory Helms.

Match Four: Singles Match

Gregory Helms vs Shannon Moore

Moore starts this one off surprisingly strong as Helms looks a little taken aback by the fast paced style from Moore, Tazz and Michael Cole playing up that maybe Helms mind is elsewhere tonight, perhaps more focused towards the challenge of Paul London come No Mercy.

Moore scores a surprise early nearfall off of a sunset flip that has the crowd going crazy, thinking the champion was to be beaten, Chavo tearing his hair out on the outside before Helms turns the match in his favour in emphatic style, taking Moore’s clean outwith a spinning heel kick from out of nowhere. From that point on it was all plain sailing for the champion who picks apart Moore in his usual arrogant fashion, mouthing off to the crowd that ‘This is ya boy’s fate at No Mercy’ as he drops Moore with a delayed vertical suplex, massive impact on his plucky opponent.

Helms continues to remain in control and puts Moore out of his misery in the end as he takes Moore’s head off with a STUNNING Shining Wizard!! The impact reverberating around the arena as Helms slides into a cover, Chavo Guerrero telling the crowd just how damn good his partner is, 1…2…3…game over for Shannon Moore.


Winner: Gregory Helms(4:11)

Michael Cole: No doubt a dominant display from Gregory Helms here tonight and the numbers really didn’t matter here tonight. No need for Chavo Guerrero, no need for underhand tactics, Helms got the job done tonight but the big question is, can he do that against Paul London?

Tazz: I don’t see why he can’t Cole. Helms is the champion for a reason and that reason is that he’s freakin’ talented.

Michael Cole: Talented, sure but Tazz even you gotta admit that’s NOT the reason he’s champion, Chavo Guerrero is that reason.

Helms now has a microphone as Chavo Guerrero holds the Cruiserweight Championship out for him, Helms accepting it with a broad smile, placing it on his shoulder before addressing everybody.

Gregory Helms: So the match is set huh? Me puttin’ this championship on the line at No Mercy against boy wonder himself…Paul London.

Nice pop for the mention of London.

Gregory Helms: But hold the press ladies and gentleman because Paul London’s little buddy, Brian Kendrick is gonna be in his corner.

Another little pop for the mention of Kendrick, Helms and Chavo smirking at one another.

Gregory Helms: Major news right there ain’t it? Well, at least you’d think it is by the way people are talking. All people keep on sayin’ is that now Kendrick’s in Paul London’s corner, now that there’s two of them to take on the two of us, now that the numbers game is no more…that my title reign is under threat.

Helms says that in an almost questionable manner.

Gregory Helms: Well all I can say is... are you people really that stupid? Do you people actually listen to whatcha sayin’? Brian Kendrick being at ringside puts my title reign in jeopardy? Gimme a break. Brian Kendrick ain’t gonna make an ounce of difference at No Mercy. The fact still remains that when that bell rings, the only two men standin’ inside this ring are gonna be Paul London and the greatest Cruiserweight of ‘em all…Gregory Helms!!

Strong boos for that as Chavo applauds the arrogant champion.

Gregory Helms: That match ain’t gonna be two on one, it ain’t gonna be three on two, it’s gonna be a straight up, one on one and y’all might not wanna hear it but I ain’t liein’ when I say that your boy Paul London just ain’t up to the challenge.

Helms shakes his head, smirking to himself.

Gregory Helms: So forget title reigns bein’ under threat, forget Brian Kendrick bein’ in his corner, forget the odds apparently bein’ even cos when ya play with Gregory Helms, the odds are NEVER even. At No Mercy Paul London’s gonna do what he does best… fall short. And y’all gonna witness the master at work doin’ what he does best…WINNIN’.

Helms then drops the mic, an emphatic thud as we see Chavo continuing to celebrate before yelling ‘THIS MAN IS A WINNER’ and Helms looks down at the title belt around his waist before the duo exit the ring amidst a chorus of boos once again.

Michael Cole: Do you really buy that? Gregory Helms absolutely certain that the odds remain in his favour come No Mercy but in recent weeks what’s actually happened is the opposite of that. London and Kendrick have had Helms, they’ve had Chavo’s number and come No Mercy I would say the odds are in the challenger’s corner.

Tazz: You’re so damn biased Cole. You heard from the man himself right there, Brian Kendrick doesn’t make an ounce of difference when it comes to inside that ring. Sure he’s gonna occupy Chavo but the confidence from Helms tonight, man he had me believin’ in him a hundred percent. Helms has faith that one on one, ain’t nobody beatin’ him and at No Mercy that theory’s gonna be put to the test.

Helms takes the title off from around his waist and raises it up high, Chavo is still telling the crowd that Helms is ‘Just too damn good’ as both men then share a smirk at one another and we head off to another break.

Commercials​

We return from the break and we’re taken backstage where we see a jubilant Carlito passing through the halls, all smiles as he tosses his apple up and down in the air before being stopped in his tracks by a determined Kristal Marshall.

Kristal Marshall: Carlito, congratulations on your win over Matt Hardy tonight. You’ve now earned yourself another shot at the United States title, just how confident are you that this time around you’ll be victorious?

Carlito: Is…is Carlito confident? Carlito is ALWAYS confident and what ju saw out there tonight was Carlito proving exactly why he’s so confident.

Lito is clearly overjoyed, the boos already incoming for the Apple Spitter.

Carlito: Carlito told ju dat Summerslam was a fluke. Carlito may not be holding dat United States title right now but dat doesn’t tell the whole story and Matt Hardy knows it. He had one lucky night but lucky nights against Carlito? They don’t come around very often ESPECIALLY…for a guy like Matt Hardy.

Lito tosses his apple a little, smirking slyly at Kristal.

Carlito: See a guy like Matt Hardy, he doesn’t…he doesn’t even belong in this company, let alone holding one of its championships. Matt Hardy has and ju better believe Carlito, he always will be nothin’ but an afterthought. Since the very moment he stepped foot in the W…W…E all people ever talked about was his brother. The Hardy Boyz, a legendary tag team, Carlito’s got no issues wit’ saying dat because Matt Hardy never made dat team legendary, no, no. His brother jumpin’ off ladders, his brother jumpin’ through tables, his brother tryin’ to kill himself made dat team legendary. Matt Hardy? Ha, Kristal, Matt Hardy as always…was nothin’ but an afterthought.

Strong boos for that as Lito continues smirking in his usual fashion.

Carlito: Carlito on the other hand? Carlito was made for this business. Carlito’s family? It’s wrestling royalty Kristal. When ju look at Carlito ju see somebody who not just belongs here, ju see somebody who belongs on top, ju see somebody who was BORN…to be a champion.

Carlito defiantly stares at Kristal.

Carlito: Das why one loss to Matt Hardy, it doesn’t bother Carlito cos Carlito knows…ha ha, Carlito knows dat nine times outta ten, heck ninety nine times outta a hundred, Carlito will always beat a loser like Matt Hardy. So Carlito’s got a lil message for ju Matt, enjoy holdin’ dat title, enjoy callin jurself a champion cos when Carlito gets his opportunity…dat title’s headin’ where it belongs and dat? Das cool.

Lito then takes a bite of his apple, nodding along smiling as we zoom in on him and his incredible ‘fro before we head back to ringside where there are several seconds of silence before we hear…

‘GONG’

‘Graveyard Symphony’​

And it’s a HUGE pop that greets the music of the Deadman, the Phenom, The Undertaker who makes his infamous entrance, a focused look as ever on the face of the number one contender here this evening.

Michael Cole: He is the cornerstone of this business. The legendary Phenom and Tazz it has been over three years since The Undertaker held a World Title. There is no doubt he’ll want to put an end to that tonight and once again return to the top of the food chain here in the WWE.

Tazz: Absolutely Cole. Over three years, that’s a heck of a long time for somebody like The Undertaker and there is no doubting that even for someone as cold as The Undertaker, that’s gotta hurt. John Cena’s back’s against the wall tonight, that’s for sure.

Taker takes his place in the ring, going through his usual routine, loud cheers as ever for the Deadman as he then awaits the arrival of the champion…

‘My Time is Now’​

It’s an equally loud ovation as the WWE Champion bursts out, John Cena who looks all fired up tonight, interacting with the crowd before locking eyes with a fiercely determined looking Undertaker who awaits him inside the ring. Cena’s small smile evaporating into a look of sheer determination.

Michael Cole: The look on John Cena’s face says it all. A look of sheer determination on the face of the WWE Champion as he knows just what awaits him here tonight. Cena has overcome every obstacle thrown in his way so far as champion but this a whole different ball game Tazz.

Tazz: Damn straight Cole. The Undertaker ain’t like any other superstar here in the WWE. But hey, John Cena ain’t like any other either, this is one of those match ups where if both of these guys are on their game you simply can’t call a winner and I can’t freakin’ wait.

Match Five: Singles Match

WWE Championship:

John Cena© vs The Undertaker

There’s an electric atmosphere amongst the fans as Cena and Taker stand in opposite corners, eyes locked on one another as the referee raises the WWE Championship up high, Cena’s attention flickering to it for a moment, Taker’s doing likewise and the bell then rings as both men begin to circle the ring, Taker at some speed, Cena a little bit more methodically before……

?: HEY!! HEY UP HERE!!

?: HE SAID UP HERE!!

And there’s immense heat as both Cena and Taker stop in their tracks and look up at the titantron where we see the image of Kurt Angle and Randy Orton!! The two heels are being booed like crazy as Angle smirks, Orton a little more cold as they appear to be what looks like the WWE’s production truck. There’s several people sat down and monitors all over the place of different angles, the ring, the backstage area as well as the fans.

Kurt Angle: Sorry to interrupt but uh we got some bad news, y’see, this match? This match can not and this match will not take place.

Huge heat for that as Cena looks confused.

Randy Orton: Kurt’s right, this match just can’t happen, not on our watch. Teddy Long’s got this whole thing wrong and he needs to understand where we’re comin’ from, so uh, we hate to spoil the party but uh…you won’t be witnessing John Cena versus The Undertaker for the WWE Title here tonight. Infact you won’t get to witness John Cena versus ANYBODY for the WWE Title…until we get what we want.

Orton smirks now as Cena is furious inside the ring, Taker looks at Cena like ‘WTF?’ and Cena begins to move away, the champion yells 'TO HELL WIT' THEM, LET'S DO THIS', the crowd going crazy as Cena wants to carry this match on!! Taker still looks confused, not sure what's going on before he begins nodding back at Cena andit appears as though champion and challenger are ignoring the presence of Angle and Orton!!

Kurt Angle: You might be asking, ‘What…what can you guys really do to stop it?’ ‘Teddy Long’s in charge of Smackdown, not you two guys’.

Angle begins laughing as we see that Cena and Taker have now locked up again and Cena is forcing the Deadman aback towards the corner, Michael Cole and Tazz are confused as hell, the crowd likewise.

Randy Orton: Well for those of you who still think Teddy Long can take charge of a show like Smackdown, for those of you who think Teddy Long can take charge of ANYTHING…then guess again. Teddy Long may be the ‘General Manager’ of this show but he has absolutely NO AUTHORITY... but you’d better believe…we do.

Orton and Angle begin nodding at one another as we now see that Taker has Cena in the corner and is unloading on the champion with right hands to the gut, Cena looking a little winded as the challenger assumes control, the distraction of Angle and Orton no longer phasing them.

Kurt Angle: We’ve got all the authority, we’ve got all the power and until we get the title shots that WE DESERVE…we’re gonna abuse that power. That’s why we’re here in the production truck backstage.

Angle and Orton begin walking over to two gentleman sat down with headsets on.

Kurt Angle: How...how we doin’ guys?

The two men look scared to death, they clearly know what’s going on here, perhaps having had prior warning as Tazz notes that Angle and Orton may have had this whole thing planned from earlier on tonight.

Randy Orton: He said, HOW…ARE…YOU…DOING?

Orton grabs one of the men by the collar, the worker is petrified as he shakes, quivering whilst Orton glares at him.

Production Worker: I’m…I’m doin’ good, doin’ good.

We then flicker back to the action as Cena is fighting back with right hands to the Deadman, Irish whip by the champion, Taker rebounds and Cena knocks him down with a shoulder block. Some fans are glued to the titantron, others directly focused on the ring action.

Kurt Angle: That’s…that’s great, really. Well uh, seein’ as we’ve got the most authority and seein’ how we’ve got the most power around here, we decided that…we’re gonna show Teddy Long how to really use that authority, that power that he so CLEARLY lacks. Which is why we paid a visit back here tonight...cos right now, as I say these very words, you’re all getting one HECK of a main event right?

We go back to the action and we see that Cena has Taker upright and is looking for a suplex but Taker is fighting it, digging in with elbows to the back of Cena’s head and he breaks the hold the champion has before we shift back to the titantron.

Randy Orton: And that main event was made all because Teddy Long wants to please you people. He doesn’t care about his superstars, he doesn’t care about what we want, well uh... guess what? We don’t care about what HE wants and that’s why this STUPID main event he’s got in store for you, it ain’t happenin’. Don’t believe us? Thisthis is what authority looks like, this…is what power looks like.

Orton then looks at Angle, a moment's hesitation before Angle eyes up one of the production workers.

Kurt Angle: Off.

Angle gets right in the face of one of the production crew, the man still trembling with fear as we see him shaking his head before we get a quick flash of the action and The Undertaker goes for a big clothesline but Cena ducks it and Taker spins round right into a knee to the gut before a big clothesline from Cena now. We then shift back to the tron and Angle now has his hands on hips, Orton is biting his lip in anger.

Kurt Angle: I said…off.

Still nothing as we’re left wondering just what the hell is going on here.

Randy Orton: TURN THEM OFF NOW…before this gets really outta hand.

The production worker appears to finally give in as Orton gets right in his face, the worker then begins to edge closer towards some of the buttons on the system as Angle and Orton share a stare, begin laughing to one another as the production worker pushes a button, the camera immediately shifting to inside the ring where Cena has Taker in a chinlock…BEFORE THE LIGHTS GO OUT IN THE ARENA!! IT’S TOTAL DARKNESS INSIDE THE ARENA AND THE BOOS ARE ABSOULTELY THUNDEROUS!! WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?!?

We then flick back to the tron which is still on as Angle and Orton begin to walk away from the terrified production workers.


Kurt Angle: We told you that this wasn’t happening. We told you that until we get what we want, YOU aren’t getting what you all want and Teddy Long, Teddy Long IS MOST FREAKIN' DEFINITELY…not getting what he wants.

Randy Orton: As General Manager he has a responsibility to do what’s right, he has a responsibility to do what’s fair and he…is…not DOING IT!! So we? We’re gonna do it for him.

Angle is chuckling, Orton a more ruthless look in his eye before a closing line from Angle, the arena still in total darkness, the boos still thundering in.

Kurt Angle: Show’s over folks. Show’s over.

Angle continues laughing as he walks out of shot, Orton doing likewise with a more cold stare before a wry hint of a smirk and we go to a final shot of an absolutely pitch black arena, absolutely no image of anything, we’re only left to hear the very loud, very audible boos from the Nashville faithful.



Date: 9th October 2005

Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas

Current Card:

WWE Tag Team Championships: Ladder Match:

MNM(c) vs Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio

WWE Cruiserweight Championship:

Gregory Helms(c) w/Chavo Guerrero vs Paul London w/Brian Kendrick
 
#218 ·
WWE Monday Night Raw Preview- 12/9/05- Wichita, Texas

It’s the final stop on the road to Unforgiven and it could well be the final stop on the road for Shawn Michaels. This Sunday night Michaels will be thrown into the lion’s den as he must take on and defeat all four men members of the Arabian Entity but after the ending to Raw last week, where Michaels laid out the dangerous quartet, Michaels chances may well have improved. Tonight the Entity will be in action, but will they be at a hundred percent? They take on a fired up, raring to go Animal, the World Heavyweight Champion, Batista in what Eric Bischoff has tasked as their Unforgiven warm up match. Will the Entity send a message or will Batista and perhaps the Heartbreak Kid strike the Entity down once more?

Speaking of the champion, it’s a huge night for him when he crosses paths with the Entity. However, there is still of course the threat of the Big Red Machine Kane looming over him. Last week saw the Animal and the Monster tear into one another right the way across the arena, culminating in the Devil’s Favourite Demon delivering a devastating Chokeslam through the announce table on the reigning champion. With just six days separating these two from now until their Steel Cage encounter, will they be able to keep their hands off one another or will things reach boiling point in Wichita?

We learned last week that Edge, Chris Jericho and Christian will do battle at Unforgiven with a World Title opportunity at stake. Tonight we’ve already learned that Christian will address his ‘Peeps’ in the middle of the ring. There’s no doubting that Captain Charimsa will stake his claim to the title but will his fellow Canadians interrupt the party? You would have to assume the tension will rise as a title opportunity hangs in the balance.

Another match added to the Unforgiven card this week was for the Intercontinental Championship where we’ll see Shelton Benjamin defend his gold against ‘The Protégé’, Mark Jindrak. Jindrak has been on a total hot streak since aligning with William Regal and with the growing tension between Benjamin and Charlie Haas, there’s no doubting that Jindrak alongside Regal will look to take advantage of this. Tonight, Jindrak will take on Benjamin’s partner in singles action. Will the ‘Protégé’ send a message to the champion or will Haas stand up and fight for his partner, perhaps denting the challenger’s confidence, just six nights before the title showdown? We eagerly await to see!

The Tag Team champions will also be in action tonight as the Dudleyz take on the Heart Throbs seeking to send a message to their challengers come Sunday. Last week the Platform to Perfection suffered a surprise defeat to the Basham Brothers thanks to a distraction from the Dudley Boyz. The Perfectionists were left shocked whilst the Bashams again staked their claim for a title opportunity. Will they again be involved here in Texas tonight? Will the Perfectionists have anything up their sleeve for the champions? Or will it all be plain sailing on the road to Oklahoma for the veteran champions?

Plus, Mr.Kennedy will be in action tonight but just who will step to face the undefeated star? Kennedy has issued an ‘Open Challenge’ for Sunday at Unforgiven but who will face him tonight, will it again be the persistent Eugene or will perhaps somebody else rise to the challenge?

So many questions just six nights from a huge PPV in Oklahoma, find out all the answers and much more LIVE on Monday Night Raw!!


Confirmed for Raw:

Four on One Handicap match:

Batista vs The Arabian Entity

Mr.Kennedy vs ?

Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak

The Dudley Boyz vs The Heart Throbs

Plus;

Christian will address his ‘Peeps’

Thanks to KURTANGLEFAN123 for the SD feedback, much appreciated. Anymore is welcome but expect this up end of the week hopefully.
 
#219 · (Edited)

WWE Monday Night Raw- 12/9/05- Wichita, Texas​

There’s no video package showing last week’s shenanigans, instead we go straight to the opening video before the pyro hits and we’re shown a sold out crowd here in Texas.

Jim Ross: We welcome you ladies and gentleman LIVE to Monday Night Raw. We are in Wichita, Texas and folks it’s the final stop on the road as we are just six, count ‘em, SIX days away from Unforgiven.

The Coach: Six days baby, I can’t wait any longer!! These folks in Wichita are in for a treat here tonight as well J.R. A HUGE main event as the Entity get their warm up match for this Sunday at Unforgiven. It’s a four on one handicap, the Entity taking on the World Champion, Batista!! The Animal’s gonna get wounded tonight!!

Jim Ross: Indeed a huge test for Batista here tonight just six nights before he steps inside a fifteen foot high steel cage to take on the demonic monster, Kane.

J.R is then cut off as we hear the music of…

‘I’m Back’​

The one and only Raw General Manager, Mr.Eric Bischoff who strolls out onto the stage, a chorus of boos as he shows little to no facial expression, eyes firmly fixed in front of him, clearly something the boss needs to get off his chest tonight.

Jim Ross: But there is our boss, Raw’s General Manager, Eric Bischoff and Coach it would appear as though Mr.Bischoff is NOT a happy man here tonight.

The Coach: And why should he be? Shawn Michaels took out the Entity last week, he attacked them from behind, who the hell gave him…did Eric Bischoff give him the right to do that? No he damn sure didn’t and Michaels is gonna have to pay the price, be it tonight, be it at Unforgiven, it’s gonna happen.

Bischoff has a microphone as some strong ‘You Suck’ chants have begun, Bischoff closes his eyes, shaking his head a little bit before scouring the arena.

Eric Bischoff: Last week as Raw went off the air, we all saw the footage, we all saw exactly what happened. Shawn Michaels…

Big pop for the mention of Michaels as Bischoff groans.


Eric Bischoff: Shawn Michaels sat backstage and he rambled on about his faith, he rambled on about his beliefs and he rambled on about a bunch of other crap that…let’s be honest, it’s not gonna save him come Unforgiven. He might believe it but I can assure you and I can assure Shawn, it’s simply false hope.

Bischoff shakes his head.

Eric Bischoff: And once Shawn’s little speech was over with, all we were left with, all we got to see was the sight of four fallen men. All we were left with was a shot of the Arabian Entity laid out one next to the other, a dented steel chair laid right beside them, torn apart… at the hands of Shawn Michaels.

Bischoff surprisingly doesn’t seem all that bothered by this, the crowd cheering however.

Eric Bischoff
: Oh…oh you people like that? You people enjoyed seeing that last week?

A rousing response.

Eric Bischoff: Well DO NOT…get used to it!! I mean, how STUPID can Shawn Michaels get? The Entity…they’re already out to get him this Sunday, they know what’s at stake for them, the chance to FINISH…the Heartbreak Kid, they don’t need any extra motivation but…but what does Shawn do? He gives it straight to ‘em.

Bischoff chuckles, shaking his head once more.

Eric Bischoff: He mighta thought he was weakening the Entity last week, he mighta thought he was sending them a message, hey maybe he thought he was sending me a message but all Shawn did last week was PISS ME OFF!! But then…then I got to thinkin’ and I realised that if I’m pissed off, can you imagine how the Entity must’ve felt?

Bischoff is all smiles now.

Eric Bischoff: Take my anger, take my frustrations, times it by ten and you’ve got…you’ve got just a fraction of how they must’ve felt which means only one thing and that’s come Unforgiven all that anger, all that frustration, they’re gonna let it out, oh yeah. They’re gonna let it all out, they’re gonna unleash EVERY little bit of it on Shawn Michaels. They’re not just gonna beat Shawn this Sunday, they’re not just gonna finish his career, they’re gonna finish…his life.

Big time heat for that, Bischoff with that sleazy smile on his face.

Eric Bischoff: Which is why as much as I was pissed off last week, tonight? Tonight, I’m feelin’ really good. I’m feelin’ good because ladies and gentleman, tonight…tonight may very well be Shawn Michaels last night on Raw.

Bischoff is beaming, the crowd booing that statement like crazy.

Eric Bischoff: Don’t believe me? Hey, that’s your choice but you’re simply in denial if you don’t. What Shawn’s done to me, what he’s put me through, it’s gonna end this Sunday night and I cannot even begin…to tell you just how proud I’m gonna feel knowin’ that I did this to him. How proud I’m gonna feel knowin’ that I forced him out the door, that I made him walk away from the one thing he loves most in this world, that after EVERYTHING HE’S PUT ME THROUGH…I…Eric Bischoff ended…his…career.

Monstrous heat for this, Bischoff defiant in his statement.

Eric Bischoff: So I thin…

‘I Walk Alone’​

But the boss’ little rant is cut off to a HUGE ovation as the music of the World Heavyweight Champion hits and out steps Batista, suited and booted, roaring out to the Wichita crowd, not showing any signs of the Chokeslam through a table last week as he lays his eyes on the Raw GM. Bischoff is looking furious as he stares right back at the Animal, stepping into the ring and grabbing a mic from ringside as a ‘BA-TIS-TA’ chant has begun, Tista acknowledging the chant as his music dies down.

Eric Bischoff: Did…did I invite you out here? What....what the hell do you want? You want me to cancel your match tonight is that it? Huh? Is that it? I mean I don’t blame you if it is, I wouldn’t wanna be facin’ those guys either, I mean the…

Batista: I’m not out here to cancel anything Eric, infact as much as you’re not gonna wanna hear it, I cannot WAIT…to kick their asses ALL OVER THIS ARENA!!

Big time pop for that, Tista already fired up.

Eric Bischoff: Kick their asses? Gee Dave, you musta landed real hard on that head o’ yours last week if you even think there’s a chance of that happening. Y’know what? I’m actually glad you came out here cos just like tonight’s a special night for Shawn Michaels, it’s also a special night for you, ain’t that right ‘champ’?

Batista looks a little confused now, Bischoff smirking.

Eric Bischoff: Just like tonight is Shawn Michaels last night on Raw, tonight is YOUR last night on Raw as the World… Heavyweight… Champion.

A barrage of boos for this as Tista’s the one to smirk now.

Eric Bischoff: And just like I’m gonna enjoy every second of seeing Shawn forced out the door this Sunday, when you lose that World Title to Kane, I’m gonna get that very same satisfaction.

Batista: Well I hate to break it to ya Eric but Shawn’s not goin’ anywhere and this World Title? Well lemme put it this way, you’re gonna have to KILL ME… before you take it from me.

Big time pop for that, the Animal not backing down in his usual aggressive fashion.

Batista: See you might like to think that you’ve stacked the odds against me Sunday night, you might like to think you’ve stacked the odds against Shawn but if there’s one thing, just ONE thing me and Shawn have in common, it’s that those odds don’t mean a damn thing.

Bischoff mouths ‘Oh really?’

Batista: You can put Shawn Michaels in the ring with one man, you can put him in the ring with four men, hell, you can stick the whole locker room in the ring with him and he will STILL put on a show like only he knows how. And Eric, it really wouldn’t shock you would it…if Shawn pulled it out the bag again this Sunday night?

Bischoff puts his head down for a moment.

Batista: That look right there says it all. You know you’ve put Shawn through hell, you know you’ve made him suffer but you know…you still might not come out on top in this whole thing. You know that you aren’t up against just anybody, you’re up against the Heartbreak Kid, you’re up against the ma…

Eric Bischoff: Alright enough, enough Dave. Let me…let me get this straight…I know I might not come out on top? I might not come out on…ha ha. I’M ERIC FREAKIN’ BISCHOFF, I ALWAYS COME OUT ON TOP!!

Monstrous heat for that, Bisch clearly furious.

Eric Bischoff: I don’t give a damn whether it’s you, whether it’s Shawn, whether it’s anybody in the back of that locker room, I will take…you…down. You said it yourself, the amount I’ve put Shawn through already, the amount I’ve made him suffer but that is NOTHING…compared to what’s in store for him this Sunday night. No matter how much heart, how much determination, how much faith he possesses, NONE OF IT… is gonna save him.

Bischoff wags a finger, Batista s......s at that comment.

Eric Bischoff: And that goes for you too Dave. That goes for this Sunday at Unforgiven and that goes…for tonight too cos if all goes to plan? You might not even make it to Sunday night.

Batista: That right? Well like I said earlier Eric, if later on tonight you plan on takin’ me out then you’d better make sure yo…

Eric Bischoff: Woah, woah, woah, hold on just a second. I didn’t say anything…about later.

Bischoff then begins smirking like crazy, the crowd abuzz as Batista seems a tad confused…

‘Arab America’​

Jim Ross: Oh good god almighty.

The Coach: YES!! BATISTA IF YOU WERE SMART YOU’D GET THE HELL OUTTA THERE!!

Oh snap. There’s a wave of anticipation from the Wichita crowd as they know what’s coming, Batista knows it too and tears off his shirt!! The Animal wants some of the Entity, he’s not backing down here!! We then see Muhammad Hassan and The Great Khali making their way down the ramp, the World Champion is motioning them to bring it here.

Jim Ross: Batista isn’t goin’ anywhere!! The Animal wants him some of the Entity!! Hassan and Khali have the champion in their sights, we aren’t gonna have to wait until our main event!!

The Coach: There isn’t gonna be one if this goes the way I think it’s gonna!!

Hassan slowly walks up the steps, Khali right behind him…BEFORE THE ANIMAL IS CLUBBED FROM BEHIND BY SONJAY DUTT AND DAIVARI!! The other half of the Entity sneaking through the crowd and they’re laying into the World Champion!! Hassan and Khali now entering and the Entity’s leader has a sadistic smile on his face as Eric Bischoff looks on from ringside.

Jim Ross: AW DAMN IT TO HELL, IT WAS A SET UP ALL ALONG!!

The Coach: Genius!! Pure…genius.

The beatdown is ensuing as Hassan is yelling down at Batista, the Animal fallen as Dutt and Daivari hammer away with boots across the body of the champion before dragging the Animal to his feet…and placing him right into the path of The Great Khali!!

Jim Ross: Oh no…no don’t do this. Batista’s got a damn steel cage match Sunday night, he’s gotta put his title on the line for Christ sakes!!

The Coach: Who gives a damn? I don’t and neither do these guys J.R. They are as ruthless, as cold, as DOMINANT as you get and I guarantee you th…

‘Sexy Boy’​

Jim Ross: OH HERE WE GO!! THE HEARTBREAK KID COMING TO THE AID OF THE ANIMAL!!

The Coach: Eric Bischoff’s right, he really is stupid!! What is he thinking?!?

Indeed Shawn Michaels’ music hits to an ENORMOUS pop and the Heartbreak Kid comes storming down to the ring as Khali tosses Batista aside, the Entity’s sights solely set on their opponent Sunday night!! Michaels flies under the bottom rope as Dutt comes charging right at him AND MICHAELS TOSSES HIM OVER THE TOP ROPE!! Daivari now flies at him BUT MICHAELS WITH A BACK BODY DROP AND DAIVARI GOES TUMBLING!! Michaels then spins round…and Hassan has pulled Khali away and both men have left the ring, Hassan not wanting any part of the Showstopper!!

Jim Ross: Look at ‘em running, the Entity want NOTHING to do with a fired up Shawn Michaels!! The Heartbreak Kid has these four on the ropes and you’d better believe that this Sunday, he’s heading to Oklahoma to take…them…out.

The Coach: Oh please. The Entity could strike him down whenever they wanted but tonight? They don’t have to, that’s what Sunday night’s for J.R and Shawn Michaels knows it.

We see Michaels by the side of a fallen Animal, Batista looking absolutely furious as Michaels stares down the four Entity members who back up the ramp, Eric Bischoff right beside them as Bischoff looks ready to blow a gasket. Hassan meanwhile is yelling right at Michaels ‘NOT NOW SHAWN, WE DON’T NEED TO SHOW YOU NOW, YOUR TIME WILL COME!’

The Coach: See J.R!! You heard it from the man himself, Shawn’s time will come and when it does, he’s gonna pay for his sins!!

Jim Ross: A lotta talk from Hassan, a lotta talk from the Entity but will they back it up later on tonight? Will they back it up this Sunday night? I damn sure can’t wait to find out.

We see Batista getting to his feet now, Michaels simply glaring at the champion, Tista likewise right back at the Showstopper before a final image of a united Entity at the top of the ramp, their sights firmly set on their opponent tonight and this Sunday at Unforgiven.

Commercials​

We return from the break and we’re led backstage where we see the Entity snarling as they wander through the halls. Daivari and Dutt are talking to one another before they suddenly stop what they’re discussing and all four stop in their tracks with Hassan looking a little tense, Dutt and Daivari more than a little, Khali unfazed as we the camera then pans…to see the Big Red Machine, Kane!!

Kane: Do you think that I need… your help?

Daivari sticks his nose in, shitting himself.

Daivari: We don’t…we don’t think tha…

Kane: Do you think that I want…your help?

Dutt’s turn now.

Sonjay Dutt: We don’t think that at a…

Kane: Do you think that I…can’t beat Batista this Sunday?

Hassan now steps forward.

Muhammad Hassan: You can beat Batista this Sunday and Kane, you will beat Batista. We acted tonight to send a message, we acted to make a statement, not to you, not to Batista but to Shawn Michaels.

Kane’s calmed down a touch now.

Muhammad Hassan: We know you don’t need us, we know you don’t want us but tonight we do step inside that ring with Batista and whether you like it or not, we will…make an example out of him and we will soften him up for Sunday night. But we won’t be doing it for your benefit; we’ll be doing it for our own.

Kane’s head tilts as he smirks before responding.

Kane: Where’s Bischoff?

Muhammad Hassan: Wh…what do you want Mr.Bischoff for?

Kane: We need... to have a little talk. So…where is he?

Kane gets in Hassan’s face now, the Entity leader looking a little uncomfortable but not backing down as THE GREAT KHALI now steps forward and stands beside a slightly more confident Hassan now. Kane not looking concerned at all about the giant in front of him.

Muhammad Hassan: He went to his office. Listen we’ve said it already, we’re not doing this to help you out, we’re doing it to se…

Kane: Oh I heard LOUD AND CLEAR…why you’re doing this. But I need to know…why he’s doing this. I need to know… why he made this match and I need to know…what role I play in it all.

Kane then heads off, the Entity seemingly a little confused by that confrontation as we then head back to ringside with a lot of questions left unanswered.

‘KENNEDY’

‘Turn up the Trouble’​

And we return to the sound of Mr.Kennedy’s music as out steps the arrogant loudmouth to a mixed reaction as ever, the usual KENNEDYYYYY fans cheering while a few boo the brash newcomer and he strolls down to the ring.

Jim Ross: Well it has been a chaotic start to Monday Night Raw and the interaction there between Kane and the Entity goes along with it. But back to the action folks and this Sunday night Mr.Kennedy has issued an ‘Open Challenge’ where he hopes that somebody is at long last gonna give him some competition.

The Coach: About damn time somebody does. This man is craving competition J.R and he deserves to get what he wants, he’s that talented. Heck, maybe he’ll get some competition here tonight!!

Kennedy, gum in his mouth as ever, looks up to the heavens awaiting the arrival of his microphone which is soon lowered from the rafters, Kennedy clutching it immediately as his music dies down.

Mr.Kennedy: Six days ladies and gentleman, six days and countin’ until yours truly FINALLY… gets himself some competition.

Kennedy smiles, a few cheers, a few boos thrown in.

Mr.Kennedy: It’s gonna be a special night this Sunday because you’re all gonna witness first hand exactly what I’m capable of. You’re all gonna witness first hand just why ‘Game Changer’ ain’t just a name…it’s a FACT.

Kennedy nods his head sternly.

Mr.Kennedy: Since I’ve been here you’ve seen…you’ve seen just a fraction of the talent I possess. All you’ve seen is nothing but joke after JOKE after FREAKIN’ JOKE…step in this ring with me and hey, I’m pretty damn sure another one of em’s gonna walk down that ramp tonight and step inside this ring with me.

Kennedy rolls his eyes.

Mr.Kennedy: BUT I’m gonna settle for it tonight, I’m gonna allow it this one last time because once Unforgiven comes and goes, it’ll at long last be over with and then EVERYBODY and I mean every last one of you…will see why there is only ONE…breakout star on Monday Night Raw, why there is only one breakout star in the ENTIRE WWE and his name... is MISTERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR KEEEEEENNNNNNNEDYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY…

Wait for it.

Mr.Kennedy: KEEEEENNEDYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.

Kennedy then tosses his microphone up, motioning for his opponent to come out, clearly mouthing ‘Who’s it gonna be this week huh?’

There’s still nothing as Kennedy now yells ‘OH C’MON, WE AIN’T GOT ALL NIGHT’ and then…


‘GUITAR RIFFS’

‘HART ATTACK’​

WHAT THE HELL?!? THE ARENA EXPLODES AND KENNEDY LOOKS IN ABSOLUTE SHOCK!! The music of Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart!!

Jim Ross: YOU’VE GOTTA BE KIDDIN’ ME!! IS IT…IS IT HIM?!? BRET HART…IS BRET HART HERE…ON…ON MONDAY NIGHT RAW?!

The Coach: He…he can’t be!!

Kennedy now begins pacing, he’s a little worried now, the music still playing…BEFORE WE SEE A FIGURE EMERGE AND ONCE AGAIN KENNEDY’S BEEN FOOLED AS OUT STEPS EUGENE, WHO IS CLAD IN BRET HART GEAR!!

The Coach: Oh for the love of God, what is wrong with this guy?!? Kennedy wants some damn competition and this guy ain’t givin’ it to him!! Doesn’t matter whether he thinks he’s Stone Cold, Hulk Hogan, Bret freakin’ Hart, he’s still a moron underneath it all!!

Jim Ross: Well…I don’t even know what to say. Eugene clearly wants to make a name for himself Coach and who can blame him? The kid’s got heart, the kid’s got guts, let him have his fun although I gotta agree with ya, I don’t think Mr.Kennedy’s gonna like this.

The Coach: That’s an understatement. Week after week Mr.Kennedy’s had to put with this guy and it’s about time it comes to a stop. KILL HIM KENNEDY!

Eugene steps in the ring, removing his jacket and shades, a decent pop, more sympathetic than anything with some boos also thrown in for him, some disappointed it wasn’t ‘The Hitman’. Kennedy simply stands, head down, hands on hips before looking up briefly at Eugene only to laugh and put his head down again. Kennedy then looks around the crowd before yelling ‘HOW DID I FREAKIN’ KNOW? HUH? HOW DID I KNOW?’ The referee then orders the bell to be rang, Eugene primed and ready, Kennedy now laughing and we’re all set to get going.

Match One: Singles Match

Mr.Kennedy vs Eugene

It’s squash territory here as Kennedy takes apart the hapless Eugene, who despite trying to trade blows with the loudmouth early on, fails to build on it as Kennedy strikes with a boot to the gut before an onslaught of knees to the gut in the corner, telling Eugene ‘You’ll never be Bret Hart, you’ll never be Stone Cold, you’ll always be a piece of garbage’ as he nails another knee for good measure.

Kennedy continues toying with Eugene, slapping the courageous superstar to the displeasure of the crowd as Eugene falls to the mat, Kennedy stomping the hell out of him as he then runs the ropes and drops a vicious elbow across the chest. Repeated elbows now from Kennedy before dragging his poor opponent up and takes his head off with a thunderous clothesline!! Kennedy then yells ‘He ain’t the best, Bret Hart wasn’t even the best, I AM THE BEST!!’

Kennedy goes to finish Eugene off, bringing him up to his feet, setting him up, MIC CHECK TIME!! EUGENE FIGHTS OUT OF IT!! Double leg takedown now!! SHARPSHOOTER!! EUGENE GOING FOR THE SHARPSHOOTER, THE CROWD GOING WILD!! BUT KENNEDY KICKS EUGENE AWAY!! Eugene stumbles, Kennedy getting back to his feet, Eugene spins round, he gets caught, MIC CHECK CONNECTS!! Cover by Kennedy, 1…2…3…game over.


Winner: Mr.Kennedy(4:01)

Jim Ross: A valiant effort by Eugene but I don’t think there was ever any doubt that the once again impressive Mr.Kennedy was gonna walk away victorious here tonight. I can only hope he gets the competition he craves this Sunday night because I don’t think anybody wants to see poor Eugene getting beat like this anymore.

The Coach: I do. If he’s stupid enough to answer Kennedy’s challenges then this is the very least he deserves.

Jim Ross: Oh for god sake, you were complaining about Eugene even being out here earlier on!!

The Coach: And I still am!! But if he’s gonna come out here, let him get his ass kicked, might make the kid finally learn his lesson.

Kennedy spits his gum in the direction of Eugene, looking down at his fallen opponent in disgust, his music playing as the crowd are now more leaning towards booing him. Kennedy then looks around the crowd once more before yelling ‘THIS IS NOT WHAT I CAME FOR!! SUNDAY NIGHT THINGS HAD BETTER CHANGE!!’

Commercials​

Back off the commercials and we’re taken backstage where we see a very sombre looking Charlie Haas wandering through the halls, Haas all set for action later on tonight. One half of the World’s Greatest Tag Team, Haas huffs and puffs somewhat before looking up and realising who stands before him. A look of intrigue on his face now as the camera shifts and we get the image of a certain William Regal which draws strong boos from the crowd.

William Regal: Charles, jolly good to see you. I was hoping I’d bump into you before your match this evening.

Haas seems suspicious.

Charlie Haas: Well, here ya are, what do you want?

William Regal: What do I want? (Regal chuckles) I think the real question here Charles is…what do you want?

Haas looks confused.

William Regal: You want one thing don’t you? You want your partner back, you want Shelton Benjamin by your side once again, you want The World’s Greatest Tag Team reunited, isn’t that right?

Haas puts his head down, thinking for a moment.

Charlie Haas: Of course I do…but what’s that got to do with you?

William Regal: Oh it’s got an awful lot to do with me. This Sunday night your ‘partner’ defends his Intercontinental Championship against my protégé, Mark Jindrak. Remind me, what is…what is it Mr.Benjamin said about your relationship with him so long as he holds that championship?

Regal puts a finger on his chin, thinking as Haas huffs a little.

Charlie Haas: He said…he said that so long as he held that title, I’d have…we’d have to be put on hold. But…but he apologised for that, it was heat of the moment, he regrets what he said and that’s all in the past now.

William Regal: But is it really in the past? When he said that to you, he meant every last word of it. Mr.Benjamin has disrespected you, he’s let you down, he has taken you for granted and he needs to face the consequences Charles. A real team, true partners don’t do that, do you see myself and Mark doing that?

Haas seems to be deep in thought here.

William Regal: No, no you don’t. That’s why I come to you here tonight with a little suggestion, a word of advice if you will. This Sunday when Mr.Benjamin steps inside that ring with my protégé, imagine how you would feel Charles... if the tables were turned. Imagine how good it would feel to see your partner…lose. Imagine how good it would feel to have him back on board, how good it would feel to have him back by your side once again, how good it would feel to no longer be in the shadows of your so called partner.

Haas looks a little angered by that comment.

William Regal: Because that’s exactly what you are right now, you’re in his shadow, you’re in the background and the only way to step out of it…is by making your own impact. Think about it Charles, think long and hard.

Regal then turns his back, a twisted smirk on his face as we see Haas thinking in the background(convenience).

Charlie Haas: Wait.

Regal stops in his tracks, that smirk unmoved before turning round.

Charlie Haas: I know what you’re tryin’ to do here and y’know what? You do make some good points but William, that’s not me, that’s not who I am and this Sunday night I WILL be in Shelton’s corner and I WILL make sure that he walks out with that Intercontinental Title, whether you like it or not.

Regal nods, a decent pop for that.

William Regal: Very well, you’ve made your choice and believe me, you’ll be the one who has to live with it.

Regal then heads off, the smirk gone, just a look of frustration while Haas looks relieved to have got that over with, shaking his head as we then head off back to ringside where we see already waiting in the ring are THE HEART THROBS, Antonio and Romeo. They wait patiently before we hear the music of…

‘Yeah we’re Comin’ down’​

The Dudley Boyz!! Team 3Ds music hits to a big pop and out storm the World Tag Team Champions, all set for action just six nights before their title defence against the Platform to Perfection.

Jim Ross: All set for some tag team action and in just six nights these two men will be defending their World Tag Team Championships against the talented duo of Ken Doane and Nick Nemeth and Coach last week we saw the mind games truly begin from the champions.

The Coach: And how ridiculous were they? They told us they weren’t worried about the Perfectionists, they told us they weren’t at all concerned by Doane and Nemeth so what do they do? They cost ‘em their match with the Bashams. That to me screams fear and that to me screams they are HUGELY concerned about what’s to come this Sunday night.

Match Two: Tag Team Match

The Dudley Boyz vs The Heart Throbs

D-Von kicks this one off along with Romeo from the ever annoying Heart Throbs and D-Von starts off strong, gaining control after a series of high power moves, including a brutal clothesline that has Antonio looking on in horror at his fallen partner.

D-Von continues the pressure, clubbing blows keeping him very much in command before a bit of hesitation costs him and Romeo takes advantage. D-Von whips him into the corner, looking around the crowd who cheer and that moment costs him as he charges at Romeo and he sees it coming, dodges it with D-Von crashing into the corner! Romeo then goes on an onslaught, series of right hands, D-Von conjuring up no answer before he drags D-Von across the ring towards his corner, tagging in Antonio and the other ‘Throb enters, stomping away at the gut of the champion.

Antonio sustains a period of control, managing to take D-Von down a couple of times, including a nice Side Russian Leg Sweep but much like D-Von earlier, a lapse in concentration costs him as he takes the time to show off his physique, allowing D-Von to nail him with an elbow to the gut, repeated elbows from D-Von now before a big right hand, Irish whip, Antonio rebounds and D-Von floors him with a leaping shoulder block!! D-Von goes flying, likewise his opponent as one half of the champions now scrambles towards his corner, itching to tag in Bubba!

D-Von crawls towards his partner, Antonio edging towards his also BUT D-VON MAKES THE TAG AND HERE COMES BUBBA!! Bubba grabs the leg of Antonio, not allowing him to make the tag, dragging his worried opponent up and Bubba begins to go to town, right and left hands, jabs from the big man, Antonio on the ropes now, boot to the gut from Bubba, Irish whip, Antonio rebounds right into a SAMOAN DROP!! Cover by Bubba, 1, 2, ROMEO BREAKS THE COUNT!! Romeo breaks it up and begins stomping away at Bubba BUT WE THEN SEE D-VON UP HIGH AND D-VON TAKES ROMEO DOWN WITH A FLYING CLOTHESLINE!!

Romeo’s down and out, all four men are infact down but the Dudleyz are getting back to their feet and it would appear the end is in sight as Bubba now drags Antonio to his feet, BOOM, right hand, BOOM, right hand from D-Von, the Dudleyz taking turns to tear him apart before an Irish whip by D-Von, Antonio flies back, D-Von scoops him up, 3D CONNECTING!! Cover by Bubba, 1…2…3…that’s all she wrote.


Winners: The Dudleyz(5:11)
Jim Ross: A convincing display from the World Tag Team Champions here tonight and you’ve gotta believe that Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley will be headin’ to Unforgiven with a point to prove and they’ll be headin’ there ready to take the Platform to Perfection down a notch or two.

The Coach: They might be ready to do that, doesn’t mean it’s happenin’. This was nothing, tonight meant nothing, it’s all about this Sunday night, it’s all about Unforgiven and it is ALL ABOUT the Platform to Perfection wearin’ championship gold around their waists, which they DESERVE.

The Dudleyz give a nod of defiance inside the ring, their music playing as the crowd give them a rousing response before the party is interrupted…

‘Perfection’​

By their opponents this Sunday night as out step the Platform to Perfection, Ken Doane and Nick Nemeth, both men are dressed smart, as you’d expect, shirt and waistcoat for both as they arrogantly walk out on stage, Doane sarcastically applauding as the Dudleyz look on with intrigue. Both men have a microphone in hand as their music dies down and they begin to address the champs…

Ken Doane: Bravo, bravo. Really, you guys were…you were just perfect tonight, right?

Doane and Nemeth smirk at one another with the ‘perfect’ comment.

Ken Doane: Well, that was about as perfect as you two are ever gonna get, that’s for sure. Perfection can be taken to a whole new level though and this Sunday that’s exactly what we’re gonna show you.

Bubba seems to shout back ‘Oh really?’

Nick Nemeth: As much as you don’t wanna admit it, you two simply ain’t up to scratch. You may be holding those titles right now but that’s because you’ve not faced a challenge like ours before, you’ve not faced two guys who are this confident, who are this talented, who are this damn PERFECT.

Strong heat for that.

Nick Nemeth: And knowing that, it puts doubt in your minds doesn’t it? It puts that fear factor inside you both and hey, it’s alright, you don’t have to confess to it because well, actions speak louder than words. Last week? Last week was the prime example of that. You…you remember what happened last week right?

Just a look of nothingness on the faces of the Dudleyz.

Ken Doane: Oh Nick, it uh, it appears these guys have got a bit of amnesia. That or maybe it’s just, I don’t know…selective memory? Cos last week you two claimed that we were ‘scared’, that we showed ‘fear’ but what did…what did you guys go and do last week huh?

Bubba has now grabbed a mic and is clearly angry.

Bubba Ray Dudley: What the hell are ya talkin’ about huh? We DID claim you were scared, we DID claim you show fear and me and D-Von wouldn’t hesitate to say the same damn thing again. You two are nothin’ but a couple of pretty boys who don’t understand just what’s gonna hit ‘em when they step in the ring with us this Sunday.

Nice pop for that as Nemeth and Doane laugh.

Nick Nemeth: Are…are you serious? That’s…that’s all you did last week? You don’t remember any little mind games? You don’t remember any distractions? You don’t remember hmmm... COSTING US OUR MATCH?!?

Nemeth is angered now, believing the Dudleyz are playing dumb.

Bubba Ray Dudley: That’s…that’s real funny but we uh…we didn’t have ANY say in your match last week. All we saw was that…you lost.

Another strong pop for that as Nemeth and Doane look at each other like ‘Surely not?’

Ken Doane: You’re telling us that you had absolutely nothing to do with last week??

D-Von now has the mic.

D-Von Dudley: We got no idea what the two of you are talkin’ about.

?: Oh but we do…

There’s confusion as we hear a random voice and the camera then shifts to the titantron where we see THE BASHAM BROTHERS!! Doug and Danny get a pretty nice pop, the Dudleyz beginning to smile a little, PTP meanwhile are already seething, they know exactly what’s gone on here.

Danny Basham: We got every idea what the two of you are talkin’ about and we can back up every word the Dudleyz have said out there. They had nothin’ to do with what happened last week, that little stunt…was all our doing.

Danny and Doug begin laughing, the crowd cheering before we see the look on Doane and Nemeth’s faces, they’re furious, Nemeth’s arms flying, Doane ranting and roaring.

Doug Basham: Y’see, last week we decided we were gonna try and throw a curveball, put a little roadblock in your path because incase you forgot, that’s exactly what you’ve been doin’ to us since Summerslam.

Danny Basham: No matter what we’ve done, no matter who we’ve beat, we’ve not got our opportunity to even earn a shot at the Tag Team Titles and that’s because you two boys are afraid of a little competition.

Ken Doane: For the LAST TIME…we are not…afraid.

Doug Basham: Then prove it. This Sunday, how about it? We make the Tag Team Title match…a Triple Threat!!

Big pop for that, Bubba and D-Von’s expression hasn’t really changed, Doane has his hands on hips, Nemeth head in his hands.

Nick Nemeth: For the last freakin’ time, you are NOT taking OUR SPOT!! You are not getting OUR SHOT!! You need to get to the back of the line and when we beat these washed up hacks Sunday night, maybe then you can have a shot at us, maybe the…

Bubba Ray Dudley: Hey jackass, you wanna call us washed up, how bout you come and say it to our faces?

Ooooh, the anticipation rises as Doane and Nemeth laugh, challenge laid down by the Dudleyz.

Ken Doane: Sorry Bubba but we uh, we’ve just not got the time for that tonight and Doug, Danny, we’ve just not got the time for the two of you…period. So for the rest of this week, while you two in the ring worry about your fate come Sunday night and while the two of you back there worry about and continue…to sit in the background, WE will be out partying, WE will be out training, WE will be out doing what we do best and that’s providing the platform for each and every single one of you…to perfection.

Nick Nemeth: And come Sunday night, those titles sitting on your shoulders right now, they’re gonna get a platform too, they’re gonna get provided with the platform to return to the LEGENDARY status they deserve because when we walk out victorious, they too…will be perfect.

Strong heat for the arrogant duo’s remarks as they broadly smile.

Danny Basham: Your little speech finished? Well you might think that you’re through with us, you might think we’re just gonna sit back and wait but uh, I hear Oklahoma’s a nice place and uh…me and Danny here have got our flights all booked and ready to go. So…

Doug Basham: So whether you like it or not, whether we’re in that match or not, we WILL be at Unforgiven and boys, I got a feelin’, you might be seein’ a whole lot more of us.

Very nice pop for that as the Basham’s fade off the tron, Nemeth and Doane not looking too phased, almost as if to say ‘Yeah right’.

Nick Nemeth: They sure do talk a good game right? But guess what? Unlike them, we don’t just talk the talk, we walk the walk. They won’t show up Sunday night, they won’t be there to save the two of you. You won’t have any excuses, you won’t have a get outta jail card, all you’re gonna be left with is egg on your faces because just like the Basham’s, you’ve underestimated us and Sunday night yo…

D-Von Dudley: Hold on my brother, we’ve underestimated you? Oh that is far from the truth. See we know that you are dangerous, you are talented, you are a threat to these titles but we’ve been around the block, we’ve seen it all before and Sunday night…it ain’t gonna be any different.

Bubba Ray Dudley: You? You two…are 'Perfection'? Well newsflash, WE…are the Dudley Boyz and at Unforgiven WE…are gonna take you to school and y’know what? I got a feelin…it’s gonna be pretty damn perfect.

A very intriguing, very confusing, very intense confrontation comes to a halt as the Dudleyz music hits and the champions stare down their challengers, Doane and Nemeth backing up the ramp, giving some mouth back to the champions who are trash talking the young duo, the anticipation for this one certainly building, especially now the Basham’s have made their intentions clear.

Jim Ross: Two teams who as Nick Nemeth put it are ‘talkin’ the talk’ here tonight but this Sunday night just who is gonna back it up inside that ring? The Dudleyz wanna put these young stars in their place, the Perfectionists wanna prove their worth, they wanna put the Dudleyz down and this has got all the makings of a slobber knocker come Sunday night.

The Coach: No doubt about it, at Unforgiven it’s gonna be out with the old, in with the new. The Dudleyz may put up a fight J.R but they can’t live with these two. Their only escape route is the Basham Brothers but I gotta agree with Nick Nemeth, they will NOT show up, they will NOT back their words up like these two will Sunday night. New Tag Team Champions J.R and I can…not…wait.

Commercials

We return and cut away to a video package…

The first shot we receive is of a church and through the windows we can see it’s pitch black outside as some candles are lit inside the church and we see a solitary figure but only from behind and they appear to be praying as they are on their knee sat the front of the church. This person is a fairly small man, bald head and a pretty scary look on his face as he begins rocking back and forth and is then heard saying ‘Forgive me, for I have sinned.

Narrator:
Forgiveness does not…come easily…

We then get a shot of Edge with his maniacal smile, holding his Money in the Bank briefcase close to him.

Narrator:
Certain acts, certain decisions, we can choose to let go…

We see a shot of Shawn Michaels standing over Batista following a deadly dose of Sweet Chin Music.

Narrator:
To let slide…

We see Charlie Haas cutting a frustrated figure as Shelton Benjamin walks past him.

Narrator:
To put at the back of our minds…

We then see this person still on their knees in the church looking up to the heavens as they repeatedly say ‘Forgive me, Forgive me’

Narrator:
But then there are other acts, there are other decisions that are simply…unforgivable…

There’s now fast paced music as we get a glimpse of an enraged Batista who kicks the ropes in frustration as Eric Bischoff smirks cockily.

We then see Chris Jericho holding the back of his head as he watches Edge slither away from his grasp, a furious look on Jericho’s face.

Finally we see Christian smirking to himself as he pats Tomko on the chest before patting his own, a devilish smirk on Captain Charisma’s face.

Narrator:
September 18th, 2005, those that have sinned will seek their forgiveness…

We see Kane laughing to himself in his usual monstrous manner.

The next image is of Muhammad Hassan and his Arabian Entity standing tall as Hassan embraces the boos from all around him.

The shot we then see is of Batista, his hands on his head in clear disappointment or frustration.

Narrator:
But for some…they will always remain…well and truly…Unforgiven.

The final image we see is of a desolate Shawn Michaels stood in the ring alone, staring down at this feet. We then return to the church to see the man praying, looking up high to the sky before he stops, looks down and into the camera, a look of despair which then changes before smiling sadistically and we then get a graphic for…​


We go from that video package to the locker room area where we see a deflated looking Eugene who is still dressed in his ring gear following his earlier defeat to Mr.Kennedy. Eugene is fiddling around with his gear, a look of frustration on his face as he’s sat down before we see a hand appear on his shoulder? Eugene sees the hand and looks a little confused before the camera shoots upwards and we see who’s hand that is…and it’s GOLDUST’S!!

Eugene: You…you’re Goldust!!

Eugene’s now all excited as Goldust nods.

Eugene: You’re, you’re Goldust and…and you’re in my locker room!! This is…this is awesome!! I’m gonna tell everybody about this!! Can I…can I get a picture, I mean, Uncle Eric won’t believe that we’re friends, a lot of people won’t believe that we’re frie…

Goldust: A picture isn’t necessary because I’m here to give you more than that, I’m here…to help you.

Goldust nods, his wig shaking around as Eugene looks a tad confused(more than usual).

Eugene: You…YOU wanna help me?? Oh this is AWESOME!! I CAN’T WAI…

Goldust: Alright, calm down, calm down. We’re gonna need you focused right away because the journey starts…right now.

Eugene is clapping his hands together excitedly.

Eugene: Ooooh, ooooh I got one question before we start!! Why…why do you wanna help me?

Goldust: Oh the answer to that is really simple, you see, we have a lot in common. When I first set foot in the WWE, people judged me, people misunderstood me when all I was trying to do…was find myself.

Eugene nods.

Goldust: You’re the same. I’ve seen your matches lately, I’ve seen you wanna be Stone Cold, wanna be Hulk Hogan, wanna be Bret Hart but they are not you and you... are not them. You are Eu…Eu…Eug…EUJAM…EUGENE…Eugene!!

The crowd are laughing as it appears Goldust’s little stutter is indeed still intact as he now clears his throat.

Goldust: You are Eugene and I wanna help you to discover the real you. You don’t need to be afraid, you don’t need to be scared of who you really are, of what these people see you for. All you need to be…is you and Eugene I will hel…he…I will HELL, FIRE AND BRIMSTONE…I will help you… to do exactly that.

Again Goldust clears his throat, Eugene looking very excited as the crowd’s laughter continues at the Bizarre One’s stuttering ways.

Eugene: You’d…you’d do that for me?! I…I can’t wait!! Thank you!!

Goldust: You’re so very welcome and I promise you that when our journey has ended, people will never forget the name(inhales)…Eugene(exhales).

Goldust then heads off to a nice pop as Eugene claps his hands together, absolutely thrilled to elarn that Goldust is going to help him ‘find himself’ and we head back to ringside to hear…

‘Born Naughty’​

As out steps the dangerous duo of William Regal alongside the man who challenges for the Intercontinental Title this Sunday, ‘The Protégé’ Mark Jindrak. A chorus of boos greeting the pair.

Jim Ross: I don’t eve…

The Coach: WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?! Are you kidding me? Goldust and Eugene?! Good god almighty.

Jim Ross: Well I don’t think there have been many more bizarre alliances in the WWE but speaking of alliances and folks this is one to be reckoned with. Mark Jindrak and William Regal have been seemingly unstoppable since joining forces and Sunday night, Jindrak looks to bring home some gold.

The Coach: Straight up domination J.R, this guy has ‘it’. Mark Jindrak is the real deal and with William Regal alongside him I really don’t see anybody stoppin’ this man from reaching the top here on Monday Night Raw.

‘Pay the Price'​

Out next to a decent pop is one half of the World’s Greatest Tag Team, Charlie Haas leisurely making his way out and eyeing up the onlooking Jindrak and Regal inside the ring, Haas having turned down Regal’s approach earlier on tonight clearly has the duo in his sights tonight as he takes a look behind him, perhaps for his partner? Before shifting gears again.

The Coach: Now J.R, where in the world is Shelton Benjamin? Where’s Charlie Haas’ partner? William Regal told him this earlier on tonight, he said that Benjamin was only in it for himself and guess what? He was right.

Jim Ross: Well I don’t know where Shelton Benjamin is but I know damn well that William Regal was simply trying to get inside the head of Charlie Haas earlier on tonight and thank god it didn’t work, thank god we actually got some loyalty from Charlie Haas who will stand by his partner, no matter what.

‘Ain’t No Stoppin’ Me Now’​

It’s a much louder ovation that then greets the music of the Intercontinental Champion as Shelton Benjamn jogs down to ringside, he is here to support Haas after all as Haas gives him a nod in his direction, Benjamin nodding right back before looking at his wrist as if to say ‘Running a little late’ and this one’s all set to get going.

Jim Ross: There’s your answer Coach, there’s Shelton Benjamin and he IS here in the corner of Charlie Haas.

The Coach: Gimme a break, this glory hog’s gotta come out on his own? Is he that special J.R? Is he?

J.R huffs as we see Regal and Jindrak discussing, Regal smirking in the direction of Benjamn before he appears to wink at Haas, the mind games clearly in affect from the Brit here tonight.

Match Three: Singles Match

Charlie Haas w/Shelton Benjamin vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal

There’s a lot of eyes on the outside for this one, perhaps more than inside the squared circle as Haas and Jindrak produce a topsy turvy opening, both men trading turns to gain control. Haas starts off the brighter, taking the big man down with a series of arm drags followed by a dropkick, Haas scrambling into the cover, kick out at two from the Protégé. Jindrak soon finds himself in pole position however as Haas drags him up, delivers an Irish whip, Jindrak rebounding and Haas goes for a back body drop but Jindrak stops his momentum, Haas gets his head up and has it knocked off by a big boot!!

Jindrak now establishes his dominance, hammering away with boots across the body of Haas, relentless kicks in brutal fashion as we hear William Regal encouraging his apprentice as ever. Jindrak then drops down and applies a side headlock on Haas, pushing all his weight down as he looks to keep his technician opponent grounded. Haas struggles to fight out of it as the force of Jindrak appears too much, the crowd are willing Haas on however and he begins to show signs of life, digging elbows into the gut of Jindrak as the big man’s grip loosens and finally Haas breaks free!! Haas breaks away and instantly sets his sights on Jindrak as we see Shelton Benjamin urging him on from ringside.

Haas now with big right hands, quick pace from Haas as Jindrak struggles to deal with it, Irish whip now and Jindrak rebounds right into a belly to belly suplex!! Beautiful from Haas, showing his strength as he floors the Protégé to a strong pop. Haas dashes into a cover, 1…2…kick out at two from Jindrak!! Regal breathes a sigh of relief, Benjamin as disappointed as Haas is before we see William Regal heading over towards Lilian Garcia??

Shelton Benjamin sees this and makes his way over as we see that Regal has grabbed a STEEL CHAIR!! Inside the ring we see Haas getting to his feet, Jindrak to his knees as Haas now decides he’s gonna head to the top rope?? Surprising move by Haas here while at ringside we see Shelton Benjamin is confronting William Regal!! Regal immediately drops the chair, holding his hands up, shrugging off any suggestions he was to use it as Benjamin tells him to back off, Regal obliges and Shelton turns away, heading back around the ring…BUT REGAL CHASES AFTER HIM AND CLUBS HIM FROM BEHIND!! Benjamin stumbles forward as Charlie Haas now drops down from the top, his eyes glued on this as he wonders what to do, does he go and help his partner or stay and concentrate on the match?

Regal looks back at the ring, telling Haas to ‘Come and help him then, he needs all the help he can get doesn’t he?’ Haas shakes his head, the crowd are urging him on here as Benjamin continues falling forwards, headed up the ramp now as Regal continues his assault, clubbing the champion from behind, Benjamin now dropping down, crashing onto the steel as Regal begins with an array of stomps all over Shelton…BEFORE HAAS DECIDES HE’S SEEN ENOUGH AND STOMRS THROUGH THE ROPES, HEADED AFTER REGAL!! Haas sprints up the ramp but REGAL GETS THE HELL OUTTA HARM’S WAY AND TROTS UP THE RAMP!! Haas tends to his partner, pointing up the ramp and mouthing exchanges with Regal before turning back and re-entering the ring, Jindrak still recovering.

Haas slides under the bottom rope and goes right after Jindrak BUT HE GETS HIS HEAD TAKEN OFF WITH A BIG BOOT!! Jindrak may have been playing possum there!! Regal is smirking on top of the ramp as Haas is laid out and Jindrak begins signalling for the end!! Haas sits up, no idea where he is, eyes glazed over as the crowd recognise what’s coming, Jindrak running the ropes, BOOM, KNEE TREMBLER TO HAAS!! Cover by Jindrak, 1…2…3…he got him.


Winner: Mark Jindrak(8:21)

Jim Ross: Damn it to hell. Charlie Haas was trying to do the right thing tonight, Charlie Haas tried to help his partner but yet again William Regal’s mind games, William Regal’s tactics working to perfection and it’s gonna be a damn shame if that’s what happens this Sunday night.

The Coach: The right thing? Please. That was the wrong thing and Charlie Haas losing tonight is all the proof you need of that, all the proof he needs of that. Shelton Benjamin cost him AGAIN tonight, when is he gonna learn J.R? Stop lookin’ out for him Charlie and start lookin’ out for yourself or else THAT is gonna keep on happenin’. New Champ Sunday night baby and I cannot wait, how BEAUTIFUL is that title gonna look around the waist of Mark Jindrak?!

Jim Ross: Think you’re getting a little ahead of yourself there Coach. Shelton Benjamin’s gonna bring it Sunday night, Mark Jindrak is dangerous for sure but Benjamin’s gonna want payback come Unforgiven, both for him and for Charlie Haas.

The Coach: You keep believin’ that old timer.

Haas sits up in the ring as we see Jindrak and Regal now sharing a smirk on top of the ramp, looking down at the damage done as we see Shelton Benjamin now to his feet, sliding into the ring to come to the side of his partner. Benjamin puts an arm around Haas but Haas noticeably shrugs him away before pounding his fists on the mat in frustration having been in control there, only to have it snatched away. The World’s Greatest Tag Team showing some friction here tonight.

Commercials​

Back from the break and we head to the office of Raw’s General Manager, where we see Eric Bischoff sat down at his desk and is on the phone before he suddenly says ‘Gotta go’ before standing up, a look of worry and fear on his face as we then see just who has joined him…Kane!!

Eric Bischoff: Look I heard about earlier on, I heard you’re not happy and all I can say is that the Entity were exactly right with what they said. Tonight’s not about weakening Batista for you, it’s not about giving you any kinda advantage because everybody knows that you don’t need one.

The Big Red Machine’s still not looking impressed at this.

Eric Bischoff: So what happens out there later on tonight, it won’t have a single thing to do with you alright? Tonight’s about the Entity sending a message to Shawn Michaels. Sunday night? Now that is your night, that is the night you take home that World Title and that is the night you, nobody else, you…finish Batista.

Bischoff is beaming, hoping he’s impressed the monster but Kane hasn’t budged an inch as Bischoff’s smile soon fades into a look more of concern.

Kane: I don’t think you understand Eric. Sunday will be my night, you’re right on that… but tonight? Tonight I can’t allow them to get their hands on Batista, I can’t allow ANYBODY to get their hands on him. I will stop at NOTHING to hurt Dave Batista, to see him SUFFER, to make him feel pain HE’S NEVER FELT BEFORE!! But Eric, only I can do that, only I can make him feel those things.

Bischoff’s clearly worried here.

Eric Bischoff: You can and…and you will but not tonight Kane. I need Shawn Michaels to get the message, I need Shawn Michaels to realise what he’s up against this Sunday and the only way I can do that is through Batista tonight.

Kane: Oh you wanna send a message to Shawn?? Well Eric, I got a message of my own to send and whether you like it or not, whether ANYBODY…likes it or not, later on tonight…I’ll deliver it.

Kane then begins laughing to himself before exiting as Bischoff now has a a look of confusion in his eyes. Just what has the lunatic got in mind here tonight? Bischoff huffs as he sits back down, everybody wondering just what the Big Red Machine will produce tonight.

We then head off back to ringside, a moment’s silence before we hear…

‘Just Close Your Eyes’​

And there’s an initial pop that soon turns into a wave of heat as out steps Captain Charisma himself, Christian alongside his Problem Solver, Tomko. CC is dressed casually, a t-shirt and jeans as he surveys the crowd for all his ‘Peeps’ as the duo head to the ring.

Jim Ross: Sunday night promises to be a huge night for this man Coach. Captain Charisma heads to Oklahoma knowing that if he can walk out on top in that Triple Threat match he will earn a shot at the World Heavyweight Title.

The Coach: He’s my pick J.R. He’s up against two men he knows inside out. He’s battled with Jericho in the past, he’s known Edge his entire life, he holds all the cards Sunday night. As much of a fan I am of Edge, I gotta go with Captain Charisma baby, it’s his time to shine.

Christian once again surveys the arena for some more ‘Peeps’, now having a microphone in hand as his music dies down and he gets set to make an address.

Christian: I’ve waited a long, long time for…for even the slightest chance at a World Title opportunity. I’ve been good enough, nobody in this arena can argue with that but time after time, somebody, something has got in my way. This Sunday night at Unforgiven…that all changes.

Christian is defiant in that statement as he nods his head.

Christian: That all changes because I finally get that long awaited opportunity to earn a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. I take on two men who I’ve got a whole lotta history with, I know ‘em inside out and they’d like to believe they know me inside out too but fact is…they don’t, not anymore.

Christian smirks after saying that.

Christian: A whole lot’s changed since my days tagging with Edge, a whole lot’s changed since my days of goin’ at it with Jericho. I’m different now, I’m stronger than ever before, I’m better than ever before, I know…I know what it takes to get the job done, just ask Ric Flair.

Immense heat for the mention of Flair.

Christian: Summerslam was the night that Captain Charisma came of age, it was the night where you people FINALLY started to see just what the future looks like in the WWE, it was the night where the torch was passed and this Sunday that torch is gonna be shinin’ real bright again.

Tomko nods on as Christian looks his way smirking wryly.

Christian: What was it…what was it that Flair used to say, oh that’s right…’To be the man, you gotta beat the man’ and at Summerslam I did just that. And now? Now…I’m the man and if you want somethin’ around here, be it Edge, be it Jericho, whoever, if you want somethin’, you gotta go through me to earn it, you gotta beat me…to earn it.

Christian points at himself, a stern look on his face now.

Christian: And I don’t give a damn wha…

‘You Think You Know Me’

‘Metalingus’​

And Christian suddenly rolls his eyes as the music of his best friend and former tag team partner hits to, like Christian’s earlier, an initial pop followed by a chorus of heat as out steps the MITB holder who has an arrogant smile as he eyes Christian up from the ramp before slowly meandering down to the ring, Christian not taking his eyes off his fellow Canadian. Edge grabs a microphone, not turning his back for one second, knowing what Christian’s capable of as his music fades and he begins to confront one of the men he meets come Sunday.

Edge: So lemme…lemme get this straight, you’re the man?

Christian nods saying ‘That’s right’.

Edge: You’re the man? Really? I find that a little hard to buy into, don’t you? I mean yeah you beat Ric Flair, you beat a guy who let’s face it, he’s an all-time great in this business but…but to be the man, you gotta beat the man and Ric Flair was no longer…the man.

Heat for that comment as Christian and Tomko discuss those comments.

Edge: You wanna do somethin’ impressive? You wanna do somethin’ that’ll make people sit up and talk? You wanna be THE MAN? Beat somebody who is WORTH A DAMN!! Beat somebody who’s important, beat somebody…like me.

Edge calms himself down, the boos raining in.

Christian: Like you? Like(begins chuckling)…like you? C’mon tell me huh, what exactly have you done that’s worth a damn? What makes you important? What ma…

Edge: Oh that’s a real easy question to answer and this right here is all you need to look at.

Edge holds his Money in the Bank briefcase up high, Christian immediately setting his sights on it.

Edge: This is what makes me worth something, this is what makes me important, this guarantees me an opportunity at a World Championship and that? That’s something you can’t claim, that’s something you can’t cling onto, that’s something you can’t…bank on.

Edge now has a smug look on his face, the boos continuing for the Rated R Superstar.

Edge: Which is why at Unforgiven you’re gonna need to be the man aren’t ya? You’re gonna need to pull one outta the bag because if you don’t? If you don’t then…then who knows when your next chance is gonna come? Who knows if you’ll EVER get another chance to reach the very top?

Christian puts his head down there, perhaps realising Edge may be right.

Edge: I’ll tell ya who…nobody. Nobody knows, you might claim ya do, you might claim to be the man around here but until you prove it, who’s gonna really believe it? And hey, Jericho’s in the same position you are Sunday night. He hasn’t got that insurance plan, he hasn’t got a second chance, he hasn’t got the ace up his sleeve like I have. He knows that when he steps in that ring, he’s gotta walk out with his arm raised in victory or else he’s gonna fall to the back of the line AGAIN.

Christian: Hold on, hold on, just because you got two chances, what makes you so sure you’re gonna take one of ‘em?

Edge looks confused by that, Christian confident in his approach.

Christian: Yeah, you heard me, what makes you so confident you’re gonna cash that in successfully? All you did to win that title shot was climb a ladder and unhook that briefcase. You didn’t pin anybody, you didn’t put anybody down, you didn’t become... the man. If you were that guy, if you were the guy around here you wouldn’t have to rely on that briefcase to take you to the top but fact is, that’s exactly what you’re doing.

Edge: That is NOT what I’m doing! I’m not relying on this, I’m not relying on ANYTHING. After this Sunday you’d better believe that I’m not even gonna need this. After this Sunday you’re gonna regret every single word coming outta your mouth cos when I WIN that match, this briefcase is gone, I won’t need it, I won’t want it and then…and then all of a sudden YOU…are gonna be begging me, pleading with me to hand you this briefcase because whether ya like it or not, this IS a ticket straight to the very top and you just like everybody else is gonna want in on it.

Christian shakes his head, he’s clearly not buying this theory, Edge is getting more manic by the second.

Christian: Well I guess that’s where me and you are differe…

‘Break the Walls Down’​

A fairly heated situation, the crowd tense themselves suddenly changes as a HUGE pop greets the music of Y2J, Chris Jericho and out bursts the former Undisputed Champion, much to the disapproval of both Edge and Christian inside the ring, the two exchanging words, almost certainly regarding Jericho. Jericho has a mic in hand and enters the ring, eyeing up his two opponents come Sunday, the smile on his face evident, Christian and Edge as far from a smile as you can imagine while Tomko stares down the Ayatollah of Rock N Rolla.

Christian: This was supposed to be my chance to come out he…

Chris Jericho: WOULD YOU PLEASE SHUT…THE HELL…UP!!

A mammoth roar greets that as Christian throws a little hissy fit.

Chris Jericho: This was supposed to be your chance to come out here and tell the world just how much of an assclown you really are, I get that, I understand.

Another rousing response for that, Jericho turning to the jokes here.

Edge: Yeah, yeah that’s uh, that’s real funny Chris but there’s uh, there’s no real need for ya out here with your little jokes so why don’t you run along and let us finish what we wer…

Chris Jericho: No uh, how ‘bout we do somethin’ else? How ‘bout the two of you stop yappin’ on and on about how you’re gonna win this Sunday and how ‘bout you listen to the truth, how ‘bout you listen to why I’m gonna be the one who walks outta Unforgiven as the number one contender, that sound good for ya? Great, so first off…

Edge: You…you’re kidding right?

Christian: He better be.

E&C are looking at each other in disgust at Jericho’s comments.

Edge: You just don’t know when to give up do ya Chris? I thought Summerslam was the night you were gonna finally realise it’s all over for you around here. I thought Summerslam was the night you were gonna finally realise that Y…2…J is O…T…H, over the hill.

Christian actually laughs at that, mouthing ‘That’s a good one’. The fans don’t take too well to it however.

Edge: But here we are and still, you still…think you’ve got a chance of reachin’ the top again don’t ya? You still think you can win the big one and hey, you might call that determination but me? I call it stupidity because you don’t stand a chance of EVER getting back on top.

Thunderous boos for that.

Chris Jericho: Hey, haven’t heard this before have we Edge? I can’t reach the top again? I can’t win the big one? You’ve said that a whole lot lately. You said it before Vengeance and remind me, what…what happened there? Oh…oh that’s right…I beat you. You said it before Summerslam and oh that’s right, you only put me down because of that briefcase. So for someone who’s so sure I can’t reach the top of the mountain anymore, answer me this. How in the hell do you think you’re ever gonna get there?

Edge looks shocked by Jericho’s bluntness.

Chris Jericho: You wouldn’t have beaten me at Summerslam were it not for that briefcase and yet you thin…

Edge: ENOUGH!! How do I think I’m ever gonna get there? Real simple…because I’m too damn good not to.

Jericho points a finger at Edge, wagging.

Chris Jericho: You’re too damn good not to. There ya have it people, remember those words come Sunday night because guess what? You might think the pressure’s on me at Unforigven, you might think the pressure’s on Christian, you might think this is our ‘last chance’ but lemme tell ya, the pressure? It’s all on you.

Edge is shaking his head, not buying into it.

Chris Jericho: The pressure is all on you Edge. You hold that briefcase, you’ve already got a title shot lined up, you’re the heir to the throne, you’re ‘too damn good’ which means you…you should beat us…right?

Christian’s now smiling and interrupts.

Christian: I never thought I’d agree with ya Chris but you’re…you’re actually right. Every little bit of pressure? It's on your shoulders and if you can’t beat us? Beat two guys who hey, in your book, are ‘beneath you’ then…then what chance have you got of being World Champion?

Edge: I…I DON’T HAVE TO STAND HERE AND…AND…I DON’T HAVE TO TAKE THIS CRAP!!

Edge has lost it here and he storms outta the ring and up the ramp, pacing hurriedly as he runs his hands through his hair, Christian and Jericho looking on inside the ring. The pressure clearly is getting to Mr.MITB. Edge though then turns round on top of the ramp, mic still in hand.

Edge: Y’know what? You’re wrong, BOTH OF YOU…are wrong. You wanna try and twist this all on me? Fine, go right ahead but you’re just kididn’ yourselves aren’t ya? The pressure is ALL on you. Make no mistake about it Chris, this IS your last chance, those days of being Undisputed Champion are LONG gone and as for…you?

Edge points at Christian who’s smirking.

Edge: There’s no greater pressure than being ‘the man’ and...and that’s what ya are isn’t it? You’re the man now, right? You beat, WOOOO, Ric Flair at Summerslam and suddenly, you’re the man!! Well when you’re the man, people expect you to win matches, they expect you to win championships and to do that? The pressure is always, always…gonna be on. Sunday night, you two can deal with that and hey...don't blow it, it's all ya have left.

And with that Edge immediately turns his back, tossing his microphone and running his hands through his hair once again, breathing a sigh of relief, perhaps that this is now over til Sunday while we see Christian scratching his chin and Jericho looking defiantly back at his fellow Candian, the pressure really has increased here tonight for all three men as Edge’s music plays over the arena.

Jim Ross: Well if ever there were an example of the stakes being raised, this was it. Jericho, Edge, Christian, three men who are desperate for the World Title have, well they’ve put HUGE pressure on one another heading into this Sunday night.

The Coach: Pressure ain’t the word J,R, incredible stuff from these guys tonight. I gotta agree with you for once, which is hard for me to do. These three men have all put pressure on themselves and we’re gonna see Sunday night just who can deal with that expectation, this one’s gonna steal the show at Unforgiven J.R, make no mistake about it.

Commercials​

We return and we’re straight off backstage where we head to the locker room area where we see the World Heavyweight Champion Batista!! The Animal is in his ring gear and is icing his shoulder following the earlier beatdown from the Entity. The big man’s wincing in some discomfort but his expression soon changes as we see Shawn Michaels enter the room!! HBK has a no nonsense look on his face as he eyes up the champion, Tista sharing that same look right back at the Showstopper.

Batista: Look than…

Shawn Michaels: Save it, I don’t wanna hear it. What I did earlier on was because I know just what they’re capable of, I know what Bischoff’s capable of and hey, he’s already got me, I can’t let him get you too.

Batista: Well I appreciate it but that’s not gonna stop me takin’ them on tonight. There may be four of them, you know what they’re capable of and I do too, they’re dangerous but Shawn…so am I.

Nice pop for that as Michaels doesn’t look so sure.

Batista: I know I can live with anything they throw my way, with anything Eric throws my way and tonight ain’t no different.

Shawn Michaels: It is different though, really it is. You’re as tough as they come, ain’t no doubt about it. They don’t call ya the ‘Animal’ for nothin’, you aren’t World Champion for nothin’ but Dave, tonight’s a whole different ball game.

Batista seems surprised by Michaels claims.

Shawn Michaels: I’ve experienced it and this Sunday I’m gonna experience it again but now? Now I know what’s comin’, now I know what’s gonna hit me and I know exactly what I gotta do. You? You’ve not felt what they can do, you’ve not felt what they throw at ya. You’re steppin’ into the unknown tonight and when ya do that, there’s always a chance you might not make it out in one piece.

Tista looks irritated now.

Batista: Look Shawn, what are you getting at here? You think I can’t beat ‘em? You think I can’t take ‘em down, is that it?

Shawn Michaels: Oh I have full faith…you can beat ‘em. I have full faith…you can take ‘em down because the Heartbreak Kid is gonna be right out there with ya, I’m gonna go to that ring tonight and I’m gonna be in your corner.

Michaels points directly and firmly at Tista, the news met with a nice ovation.

Batista: Really Shawn, I appreciate the offer but I don’t need your hel…

Shawn Michaels: Nothin’ you say is gonna stop me from bein’ out there. Sunday night I got a gameplan, I know what I gotta do to stay alive and tonight? You’re in the same boat Dave. I’ll be out there with ya and I’ll do everything I can… for you to simply survive. You don’t have to thank me for it, you don’t even have to like it but Dave…you’re gonna have to live with it. Just trust me.

Michaels then leaves, giving a nod in the champ’s way as Batista has his hands on hips, clearly frustrated by that but at the same time he seems to be coming round to the idea. We then head back to ringside and hear…

‘I Ain’t a Lady to Mess with’​

And there’s a small flutter of heat as out steps the Women’s Champion, the devilish Victoria alongside her partner for the evening, a stern looking Molly Holly.

Jim Ross: Tension everywhere tonight here in Texas and right now I don’t think that’s gonna change as we’re all set for some tag team action involving two women who this Sunday night are hell bent on tearin’ each other apart. Victoria puts her Women’s Championship on the line against Lita in a match full of fire.

The Coach: When this woman’s around J.R there is ALWAYS fire. She is just incredibly brutal, incredibly vicious and I don’t think Lita quite understands what she’s come back to face. She’s not come back to face just any old diva, she’s come back to face Victoria.

‘LoveFuryPassionEnergy’​

Out next, their opponents to a very nice pop are the challenger to Victoria’s title on Sunday, Lita accompanied by her partner, the beautiful Torrie Wilson.

Jim Ross: There’s no doubting it’s a challenge Coach but Lita thrives on a challenge and Sunday night will be no different.

The Coach: She won’t be thriving when her ankle’s in two pieces will she? She’s just gotta ask Trish Stratus how it feels. She got only a taster of what Victoria’s capable of, at Unforgiven she might get the real deal and it ain’t gonna pretty which says a whole lot when these two are right in front of us!

Match Four: Tag Team Match

Victoria and Molly Holly vs Lita and Torrie Wilson

Torrie and Molly start this one off…or do they? They’re all set to go at it, the bell rings before Victoria changes her mind and wants in on this, wanting no part of Lita but more than keen to get to grips with Torrie.

Victoria dominates, not allowing Torrie even a sniff as the Women’s Champion eyes up Lita throughout the assault, the Daredevil Diva itching to get involved but it’s all Victoria who uses her power and strength to almost toy with Torrie, including a mighty impressive delayed vertical suplex.

The turning point in the match comes as perhaps the ruthless champion takes her eye off the ball. Victoria drags Torrie up slowly, mouthing words to Lita…BEFORE SHE SLAPS TORRIE BUT TORRIE BLOCKS IT!! Torrie blocks it and SLAPS VICTORIA!! The crowd give a big pop, Torrie can’t believe it herself as Victoria charges at Torrie but she ducks it, Victoria spins round and Torrie takes her down with a dropkick before sprawling across the ring…AND SHE TAGS IN LITA!!

Lita storms into the squared circle, Victoria in her sights BUT VICTORIA CHARGES TO HER CORNER AND TAGS IN MOLLY!! Molly looks surprised as Victoria leaves her high and dry, getting out of the ring and heading up the ramp!! Molly enters the ring, facing towards the ramp asking Victoria why? She then turns round, boot to the gut by Lita, TWIST OF FATE!! BANG!! Lita heads up high…MOONSAULT OFF THE TOP!! Cover, 1…2…3, big win for the challenger on Sunday.


Winners: Lita and Torrie Wilson(4:27)

Jim Ross: You still think Victoria’s gonna dominate on Sunday? I think it’s pretty damn clear that Victoria knows what she’s up against come Unforgiven. I think she knows she’s in for perhaps the fight of her career when she steps through those ropes and sees Lita standing across the ring from her.

The Coach: Oh don’t give me that J.R. Victoria does know what she’s up against on Sunday and that’s why she’s resting here tonight, she doesn’t need to face Lita, she’s gonna do that on Sunday. Victoria doesn’t want what happened before Summerslam happen again, who would? We get to see the full ticket Sunday night when Lita gets snapped in half!!

Jim Ross: Oh please.

Lita and Torrie celebrate to an array of cheers, Victoria is now long gone, Molly down and out as Lita looks around the arena, nodding her head, full of confidence that this Sunday she takes home the Women’s Title.

Commercials​

We return and we’re taken to the announce table where we see J.R and Coach and we hear the Unforgiven theme playing in the background as out commentary duo get set to run down the card for this Sunday night.

Jim Ross: Welcome back to Monday Night Raw and folks we are just six days away from a HUGE night in Oklahoma as Unforgiven approaches us. Huge match ups, huge stipulations and plenty of championships on the line, one of which is the Intercontinental Title. Shelton Benjamin will defend his championship against a man who is simply on the roll of his career, Mark Jindrak.

The Coach: I think we’re all set for a new champion J.R, I just don’t see any way of Shelton Benjamin stopping this man on Sunday night. Charlie Haas might be in his corner, he might be on his partner’s side but Mark Jindrak’s got William Regal and no matter what Haas does, no matter what Benjamin does, Regal and Jindrak will do it better.

Jim Ross: The World Tag Team Titles are on the line, the Dudleyz defending against the Platform to Perfection but will a third party get involved?

The Coach: I damn sure hope not. The Basham Brothers have got no right to be there on Sunday, leave the Perfectionists alone and let ‘em take home the tag team titles, the Dudleyz days are done.

Jim Ross: An ‘Open Challenge’ issued for Sunday night by the undefeated and quite frankly, untested, Mr.Kennedy. Who will step up and face the ‘Game Changer’? Kennedy’s hopin’ for some competition.

The Coach: He’s not the only one J.R. This guy needs to challenged, this guy needs to be takin’ on the very best, let’s hope somebody can provide him that challenge and not some shmuck like Eugene.

Jim Ross: Another title up for grabs Sunday night, the Women’s Championship as Victoria finally has to defend her gold against a fired up, ready to go Lita!

The Coach: She can be fired up, she can be ready to go but the only place she’s headin’ is the emergency room when Victoria finishes the job she started back before Summerslam.

Jim Ross: The pressure is indeed on for this one. A Triple Threat match, the winner will become the number one contender to the World’s Heavyweight Title, who will rise to the occasion? Will it be Edge? Will it be Christian? Or will it be Chris Jericho? One thing’s guaranteed, you can expect fireworks in this one.

The Coach: What’s the term you use J.R? This one’s gonna be a SLOBBERKNOCKER!! Three of Canada’s finest goin’ at it, the winner heads for the World Title. If I had to pick I’d go for Captain Charisma, it’s his time to shine baby, I can’t freakin’ wait!!

Jim Ross: Shawn Michaels road outta hell just doesn’t get any easier come Sunday night as the Heartbreak Kid takes on ALL FOUR members of the Arabian Entity knowing he can’t just beat one, he’s gotta beat ‘em all to walk out victorious. Michaels’s back’s against the wall Sunday night, will the Entity force Michaels out the door or has the Showstopper set to pull off the unthinkable?

The Coach: Michaels doesn’t stand a chance J.R and you know it. It’s four on one, four of the most dangerous men in this business against some stupid believer in the Heartbreak Kid. Belief, faith, it ain’t gonna see him through this one. Sunday night’s the Entity’s time to shine.

Jim Ross: And then the big one. The World Heavyweight Championship will be on the line inside a STEEL CAGE! Batista defends against Kane, it’s Animal verus Monster, two men who wanna beat the holy hell outta one another get to do exactly that and all I can say is Oklahoma better brace itself cos this one’s gonna get real ugly.

The Coach: Ugly is an understatement J.R, these two aren’t gonna quit until the other one’s unconscious. It’s got real heated, real fast and it’s all over that World Title, the biggest prize in the game baby and cowboy, Sunday night it goes into the hands of Kane.

Jim Ross: Well all we do know is that it’s gonna be an unbelievable, chaotic, must see night no matter what happens when we head to my home town.

The Coach: Nobody cares about your stupid home town, worry about the matches, not about your fellow Barbeque lovers.

J.R simply sighs before we hear…

‘I Walk Alone’​

And it’s another big time pop that greets the music of the World Champion, we’re all set for our main event here as out comes the underdog tonight, Batista, a look of real steel, real determination in his eyes as he makes his way down to the ring, the Entity in his sights just six nights befo…OH BAM!! WHAT THE HELL?!?!

IT’S KANE!! KANE HAS AMBUSHED THE WORLD CHAMPION FORM BEHIND AND IT’S DÉJÀ VU FROM LAST WEEK!! KANE IS ASSAULTING BATISTA!!


Jim Ross: OH NOT AGAIN DAMN IT!! Kane and Batista, is…is ANYBODY GONNA PUT A STOP TO THESE TWO?!

The Coach: Kane said he had a message and that whether Eric Bischoff liked it or not, he was gonna deliver it!! Well guess what? Message sent!!

Kane brings Batista up to his feet and catches him with a STINGING UPPERCUT!! Tista is rocked and in no man’s land right now as Kane comes charging at him and knocks him flying with a clothesline, Tista falling into the barricade here, the crowd are on the edge of their sea…

‘Sexy Boy’​

AND THE ROOF COMES UNGLUED AS HERE COMES THE SHOWSTOPPER!! SHAWN MICHAELS COMING TO THE AID OF THE CHAMPION AS PROMISED!!

Jim Ross: Shawn Michaels sticking to his word!! Shawn Michaels vowed to be in Batista’s corner tonight, he didn’t want the champion to go through what he’s been through and bah gawd he’s doing exactly that!!

The Coach: What the hell is this about? Michaels has no business with Kane and he damn sure doesn’t wanna start any!!

Michaels has raced down the ramp and Kane doesn’t wanna wait for him, he charges up the ramp too and A FIST FIGHT IS ON!! MICHAELS THROWING RIGHTS, KANE THROWING RIGHTS BUT THE SPEED OF MICHAELS SHOTS ARE SENDING THE BIG RED MACHINE ABACK!! Michaels on the front foot here!! Kane is rocking and Michaels senses his chance, takes a step back before storming at Kane and he TAKES HIM DOWN WITH A FLYING SHOULDER BLOCK!! KANE IS DOWN, BATISTA IS DOWN AND MICHAELS IS FIRED UP HE…

‘Arab America’​

Jim Ross: Oh business is about to pick up!!

J.R has nailed it as here come the dangerous quartet, the Arabian Entity are here and DUTT AND DAIVARI ARE SPRINTING DOWN THE RAMP!! THEY WANT MICHAELS!! Hassan and Khali are more measured in their approach as Michaels waits for the high flyers to storm his way and Dutt comes in first, BAM!! RIGHT HAND BY MICHAELS KNOCKS HIM DOWN!! BUT DAIVARI STRIKES A KICK TO THE KNEE!! Repeated kicks from Daivari, Michaels struggling somewhat, losing his balance but from out of nowhere a right hand to Daivari!! Michaels is taking the fight to the Entity!! WHACK!! BUT THE GREAT KHALI WITH A DEVASTATING CHOP ACROSS THE SKULL AND MICHAELS IS FLOORED!!

The Coach: That’s what you get for playing with fire Shawn!! You shoulda stayed back there, left Batista to get what he deserved!! You might not even make it to Sunday night now!!

Jim Ross: Shawn Michaels was doing what’s right and these…these savages just can’t seem to wait til Sunday night. I hope to god Shawn Michaels has something left in him for what’s t…HEY WAIT A MINUTE!!

Wait a minute indeed because Michaels is down BUT BATISTA IS UP AND BATISTA IS TAKING IT TO KHALI, TAKING IT TO HASSAN!! BATISTA WITH RIGHT HANDS TO THE BIG MAN, ROCKING KHALI A LITTLE!! RIGHT HANDS TO HASSAN, THE ENTITY’S LEADER IN A WORLD OF TROUBLE!! BUT WE THEN SEE DUTT CLIMB ON THE BACK OF BATISTA, DUTT RAKING THE EYES OF THE CHAMPION…BUT BATISTA THROWS HIM OFF LIKE A RAG DOLL!!

Jim Ross: Thanks for comin’ Dutt!!

The Coach: And thanks for comin’ Batista, look out!!

BAM!! BATISTA IS SENT TUMBLING BY KANE!! THE BIG RED MACHINE SENDS THE ANIMAL CRASHING AND GIVES A SCOWL IN THE DIRECTION OF THE ENTITY!! Kane wants Batista to himself, Kane wants to take down the Animal alone!! The Entity give a nod his way, clearly a sign they agree to it before they leisurely make their way over to Shawn Michaels who is still down as Kane drags a struggling Batista up the ramp, what the hell have these men got in mind here?

Jim Ross: This could be about to get outta hand, I hope Shawn Michaels and Batista have got some fight in ‘em here!!

The Coach: They ain’t got nothin’ left, it’s time to finish these two off. They’re gonna be easy pickin’s come Sunday night!!

Batista is to his knees now as he tries to claw his way back up, meanwhile the Entity have tossed Shawn Michaels inside the ring, nobody quite sure just what they’ve got in mind here. Kane now strikes with a kick to the ribs, keeping Batista down, the two men pushing further and further up the ramp. Inside the ring we see Hassan barking orders, telling Daivari and Dutt to ‘Get ‘im up’ and the duo oblige and Hassan strikes with a boot to the gut, Michaels being held up by the duo before…before Hassan nods at Khali, what’s he interpreting there? We see Khali begin to walk over to…oh no….KHALI UNHOOKS THE TURNBUCKLE!! HASSAN THEN POINTS OVER TO IT AND DUTT AND DAIVARI DRAG MICHAELS OVER!!

Jim Ross: Oh no, we don’t need this, we don’t need to watch this. For the love of god, somebody get out here and stop this. IF SOMEBODY DOESN’T STOP THIS, MICHAELS WON’T EVEN MAKE IT TO UNFORGIVEN!!

The Coach: And that’s his fault J.R!! He shouldn’t have been out here tonight!! This was none of his business!!

Dutt and Daivari then toss Michaels into Hassan’s path, Hassan grabbing him by the hair, yelling in Michaels face ‘WE WERE GONNA LEAVE YOU IN ONE PIECE SHAWN, WE WERE GONNA DO IT…NOT ANYMORE!!’ AND HASSAN SMASHES MICHAELS SKULL OFF THE EXPOSED TURNBUCKLE…AND AGAIN…AND ONCE MORE!! MICHAELS HAS BEEN BUSTED OPEN!! THE HEAT IS INSANE!!

Jim Ross: WE NEED A DAMN MEDIC OUT HERE!! MICHAELS IS BUSTED OPEN AND I DON’T THINK THESE S.O.B’S ARE GONNA STOP!!

The Coach: Why should they? FINISH HIM OFF!! Shawn Michaels is paying for his sins!!

The camera then shifts to the top of the stage where we see Kane stalking the Animal before he drags him to his feet and grabs him by the back of the head, SMASHING HIS SKULL OFF THE STAGE, NO!! TISTA BLOCKS IT AND SMASHES KANE HEAD FIRST INTO THE STAGE!! Both men drop down to their knees, champion and challenger wanting to damn near kill one another.

Inside the ring we see a bloody Heartbreak Kid now as Hassan then points towards Lilian Garcia and Dutt and Daivari carry out their duties immediately…WHERE THEY SNATCH THE RING BELL AND BRING IT BACK TO THEIR LEADER!! Hassan immediately grabs it, looking at it menacingly…before passing it to Khali!! There’s an immediate wave of heat as Khali knows what he’s gotta do here and Hassan begins to smile….BEFORE PULLING OUT HANDCUFFS!! HASSAN HAS HANDCUFFS AND HE KNOWS EXACTLY WHAT HE’S DOING WITH THEM!! He grabs Michaels, taking him towards the ropes before cuffing Michaels up to the middle rope. The Showstopper is defenceless, he’s got a look of desperation in his eyes, he knows what’s coming his way as Michaels even seems to mouth the word ‘Please’…BUT KHALI WITH THE RING BELL…SMASHES IT ACROSS THE BLOODY SKULL OF MICHAELS!!


The Coach: HE’S DEAD J.R!!

Jim Ross: OH YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME!! THE DAMAGE IS DONE!! WHAT IN THE WORLD IS THE NEED FOR THIS?! WHY DAMN IT, WHY?!

The Coach: They wanna force him out J.R!! They were gonna wait, they were gonna let Shawn Michaels live but he crossed them tonight and now…now he’s gotta pay!!

The echo reverberates around the arena as Michaels is absolutely laid out cold, bleeding profusely now as the entire crowd are simply speechless. We then turn our attentions to the stage where we see both Batista and Kane to their feet, albeit groggily and Kane stumbles towards the champion AND GRABS HIM BY THE THROAT!! CHOKELSAM INCOMING!! NO!! BATISTA WITH A BOOT TO THE GUT, KANE’S GRIP LOOSENS!! BATISTABOMB TIME!! NO!! KANE WITH A BACK BODY DROP!! THESE TWO ARE HEADING FURTHER AND FURTHER TO THE TECHNICAL AREA, BATISTA ON THE EDGE OF THE STAGE HERE!!

The Coach: Michaels is done for and J.R, Batista’s about to join him in a hospital bed!! Finish him Kane!!

Jim Ross: I’ve seen enough for one night Coach, I don’t need to see this. Enough is enough, I just…I can’t believe what we’re seeing.

Michaels is bleeding like a waterfall and is now stuck perilously against the ropes as Hassan takes the ring bell once again in his hand. We switch quickly back to the top of the stage, Kane has Batista in his sights, the Animal rises, GOOZLE!! NO!! Tista with an elbow, Kane spins round, Tista charges, Kane ducks it, Tista turns back round, right hand by Kane, BLOCKED!! BOOT TO THE GUT FROM TISTA, THEY’RE ON THE EDGE OF THE DAMN STAGE…BATISTABOMB!! HOLY SHIT!!!!!!!!!!!! BATISTABOMB…AND BATISTA PLUNGES FORWARD RIGHT WITH IT TAKING BOTH MEN OFF THE STAGE AND INTO THE TECHINCAL EQUIPMENT!! BOTH MEN CRASHING AND BURNING!! THE CROWD ARE GOING ABSOLUTELY INSANE!!

The Coach: Holy…

Jim Ross: JESUS…THEY…AHHH DAMN IT WE NEED SOME HELP!! BATISTA AND KANE HAVE…THEY MIGHTA JUST DAMN NEAR KILLED EACH OTHER!! SOMEBODY FOR CRYIN’ OUT LOUD GET SOME HELP…AND NOW THIS…NO!! SOMEBODY…ANYBODY STOP THIS FOR CHRIST SAKE!!

We cut back to the ring where Hassan swings the ring bell back and SMASHES MICHAELS SKULL…SMASHES IT AGAIN!! HASSAN IS RELENTLESS!! MICHAELS SKULL BEING BATTERED AT THE HANDS OF HASSAN, AT THE HANDS OF THE ENTITY!! THE BLOOD IS SPILT ALL OVER THE RING AS MICHAELS IS HANDCUFFED TO THE ROPES!! There is visible shock inside the arena as people can’t believe what they’ve just witnessed before Hassan FINALLY stops and tosses the bell outta the ring before screaming at the top of his lungs, ‘HOW’S THAT FOR FAITH?! WHERE’D HIS FAITH GET HIM HUH?! WE WILL FORCE HIM OUT, UNFORGIVEN WE FINISH WHAT WE STARTED, YOUR HERO IS DONE, YOU WILL RESEPCT US, YOU WILL FEAR US BUT YOU, JUST LIKE HIM WILL ALWAYS…ALWAYS…BE UNFORGIVEN!!’

And with that we get a chilling final shot of a laid out Batista and Kane, piled on top of bundles of equipment before the crimson sight inside the ring where Shawn Michaels, handcuffed to the middle rope is absolutely unconscious with the Arabian Entity standing tall inside the ring, staring back at the damage they’ve done here tonight, no look of regret, no look of remorse as the crowd simply remains silent, shocked at what has developed here tonight in front of their eyes.

Jim Ross: In all my time here on Monday Night Raw I don’t believe I have ever seen something this sick, something this twisted, something this damn brutal and this Sunday we will head to Unforgiven but folks…I truly don’t believe Shawn Michaels will. This is…this is just too damn much, good…goodnight everybody.

A very sombre J.R’s final words to close off a sickening, eerie ending to the show with the Entity standing tall, Batista and Kane torn apart at the hands of one another with Shawn Michaels bloodied and battered inside the ring, Unforgiven now totally up in the air as we fade…to…black.


Date: 18th September 2005
Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Final Card:

World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match
Batista(c) vs Kane

Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)
Shawn Michaels vs The Arabian Entity

Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:
Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho

WWE Intercontinental Championship:
Shelton Benjamin(c) w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal

World Tag Team Championships:
Dudley Boyz(c) vs The Platform to Perfection

Mr.Kennedy's Open Challenge:
Anybody is eligible as Kennedy demands 'competition'

WWE Women's Championship:
Victoria(c) vs Lita​
 
#220 ·
Raw Feedback​

Interesting that you started with Bischoff out first, almost as a spokesman of sorts for the Entity, could have easily gone with Batista out first, but this worked pretty well with Bischoff very quickly regaining the momentum that the Entity lost last week. Was a pretty simple speech from Bischoff, but it worked well in that it put over how Michaels' actions could come back to haunt him. Again, options as for who could have responded to this, could have been Batista or Michaels really, but the champ makes a lot of sense. Wasn't at all sure with Batista saying Bischoff would have to kill him to take the title away from him, as we just heard Bischoff say the Entity would end Shawn's life. Awful lot of death talk for the opening segment. The whole Entity set up was nicely... erm... set up by you, with Hassan and Khali providing the distraction. Michaels out for the save, again, makes sense, but I'm in two minds about Hassan and Khali walking away from the fight. Obviously protects Hassan from getting kicked out of the ring, but I wouldn't have minded seeing Michaels take out Dutt and Daivari, then take a quick beating from Hassan and Khali, only for Batista to get back into it and the faces win the two on two fight. But yeah, as an opening segment, this worked really well, it got over the feelings of Bischoff and the Entity, while at the same time hyped both tonight's main event and the match this Sunday.

I really liked this bit with Kane, played into his character so well. Despite being a heel, he's very much a lone wolf, too deranged to be associated with anyone, and it was such a smart move to have him call out the Entity. And there's of course the intrigue as to what he has to say to Bischoff. No complaints here.

Some pretty strong words from Kennedy, you got across his frustration pretty well, as well the almost inevitability of it all that Kennedy knew he was in for another joke. Not entirely sold on the name 'game changer'. That could use some work imo.

As for the match itself, the use of Eugene was again pretty comical, although we definitely needed a pre match description of him putting the sunglasses on a kid at ringside. A little attention to detail like that would have set this whole thing off perfectly. Anyway, Kennedy over, of course, but I liked the use of the sharpshooter, and also I liked the way you conveyed Kennedy's annoyance and frustration with the whole thing. Very intrigued as to who he'll face this Sunday.

Great use of Regal here, so smarmy and conniving in his words. Your use of Regal as a mouthpiece for Jindrak has been pretty sweet, definitely a great way to make Jindrak relevant, and as demonstrated here, you've used Regal well to manipulate situations to Jindrak's favour. I loved the way he sowed the seeds of dissention even deeper than we've seen in recent weeks between Haas and Benjamin. I fully expect Haas to lose tonight but Benjamin to win on Sunday, but this just adds to the simmering situation between Haas and Benjamin, one which is gonna escalate after Unforgiven imo. But yeah, this was spot on, a great use of Regal and a segment which could be a key storyline point in a few months time when looking back on how the Haas/Benjamin story really kicked into gear.

Solid win for the Dudleys, just what they needed ahead of this Sunday. Lol, Heartthrobs. What an awful team they were. Post match, was pretty interesting for a couple of reasons. Obviously Doane and Nemeth are gonna big themselves up, but throughout their talk with the Dudleys and the Bashams, you managed to convey quite nicely that despite them saying they're not afraid, there really is a sense of fear of defeat, that sense of fear of not being perfect and missing out on their opportunity to become champions. It's a very subtle thing, but it worked quite well here. Secondly, the Bashams owning up to last week's shenanigans was fair enough, but I dunno how I'd feel about them getting into the match to make it a triple threat. Granted, they've had plenty of issues with PTP, but I feel after the multi team scenario at SummerSlam, you'd be best served sticking with PTP and the Dudleys for this one. But yeah, a very interesting segment, one that could lead to developments this Sunday.

Ha! A Goldust/Eugene partnership would be pretty sweet tbh. You could definitely have a lot of fun writing those two guys as a team. Not a whole lot to say, was kinda funny, but I'm assuming you'll use this as a bit of light relief, and given my use of Santino and The F.B.I. in my thread, you know I'm a big fan of that. One thing I will say, the commentators reaction... please no more “Good god almighty” from Coachman. That just sounded so... awkward when reading it in his voice. Keep that line saved for JR in future.

I thought you wrote the story of the Jindrak/Haas match pretty well, with the way Regal and Benjamin had their roles from the outside, it all fit nicely and of course gives an indication as to what we can expect this Sunday. I thought it was a bit odd the way it was Haas who chased after Regal though. I'd have maybe went with Haas is close to winning, Regal distracts him, Benjamin gives chase, and that's the distraction that leads to Jindrak getting the win. The whole Haas running up the ramp, then back down to the ring, that didn't work so well for me. But then again, the fact that it was Benjamin taken out and Haas tried to do the right thing, which you had JR put over and emphasis very nicely, is something that again can be used in the future between Haas and Benjamin. So yeah, two minds over that part, but booking wise, this was pretty textbook. Jindrak got the win, we saw what influence Regal can have in the match, and we've got another interesting moment between Haas and Benjamin. Still very much believe that Shelton will win this Sunday, although this has set and the early segment has definitely added that sense that Jindrak could do it. But he won't imo.

Hmmm... sensing something going down with Kane an d Michaels tonight. Kane's words here were rather creepy and sadistic, and despite what Bischoff had to say, I doubt anybody will be getting in Kane's way.

While I liked the fact that we got to hear from all three guys in the triple threat, and your pet project Christian certainly came out of this looking well, I was a little underwhelmed by your use of Jericho. I think out of the three, Jericho would be my favourite to use in this situation, given his comic ability and the ease of which you could write insults for him, but he was utilized the least here imo. Obviously Christian has to be kept strong, especially off the back of his win over Ric Flair, but this promo very much makes me feel like we'll be seeing Edge beat Jericho this Sunday. It could be Christian, but this gives the impression it'll be Edge. Should be a great match, three very talented guys involved, but while Edge and Christian came out of this looking fine, I don't feel the same way about Jericho. Just something that didn't seem right with him. Maybe you're lulling me into a false sense of security, but I dunno, Jericho probably has very little chance of winning now imo.

I liked the almost symmetrical points of view from Michaels here to Kane earlier in the evening, the way they both felt the had to be there tonight and nothing would stop them. Not a whole lot to say as it was a short little segment, but definitely Michaels was used well here.

Lita wins tonight, was needed ahead of Sunday really, but I'm gonna assume that a Lita win here means a Victoria win at Unforgiven, especially given the way Victoria wanted in at the start of the match for Torrie but didn't want the same with Lita. That suggests that somehow, someway, Victoria will sneak the win.

I will say one thing straight away about this, I'm glad you took on board my feelings on you starting last week's match and then breaking it down into the brawl on board and just got straight to it this week. Far better scenario to work with, and it really gets over how wild and crazy you want things to be in a much more timely fashion. I didn't see Kane ambushing Batista, that's never really been Kane's style, but it was refreshing to see something different here. Kane's always very much been a guy who strides down the ramp and starts a fight, so to see him be a bit more sneaky was certainly interesting. Michaels and the Entity of course follow, and standard booking to have the numbers game give the heels the advantage. Holy shit indeed, loved the way this all panned out. The viciousness of what was going on in the ring, Hassan looked an absolute beast from this. And the way we kept going back and forth from the ring to the stage, it was so much better than last week. And to top if off, we've got an insane stunt from Batista to end it all. Really, this was all so fantastically writing, I really enjoyed reading it. And to top it off, we've got Hassan questioning faith. Loved it. Really nothing to criticise about this ending, it was set up so well and then executed beuatifully, and the two major stories heading into Unforgiven just got put over in a massive way.

Overall, a very strong show to head into Unforgiven. Maybe lagged a bit in the middle, but the start was strong, and the ending was incredible. The Jindrak/Benjamin situation was well written, especially the use of Regal, while everything else got a bit of attention paid to it. I obviously pointed out a few things I didn't like, but overall, a very strong show to send us into Unforgiven, a show I can't wait to read. (Y)
 
#223 ·
Raw Feedback

Yeah, it's about that time. I realise it's very late in terms of when you posted the show - I know sometimes you reach a point where you say 'Screw it, I wrote it ages ago, time to move on', but I never seem to drop some thoughts your way and I'd like to change that. I've also kept closer tabs on Raw than SD, and given that this is the go-home show, I wouldn't get another chance before the PPV itself. So, down to it.

Bischoff surprised me. I remember Hassan's promo on how Americans treated him and that's the kind of depth I liked seeing. I think I was ready for Hassan to lead the Entity out here and say HBK didn't hurt them, couldn't hurt them. While I'm here, I also thought you booked yourself into a -slight- corner somewhat with the HBK-killing-all-four-guys-before-the-PPV thing, I think it doused the Entity's fire a little. I think the way forward heading into the show was to have the Entity as an unstoppable beast, so if HBK somehow came out on top at Unforgiven, he had truly overcome the odds. Of course there was an element of Michaels being a wily S.O.B, but for a lot of this saga he's been the total underdog, the man with huge amounts of attention and pressure on his shoulders, and I just think him having the Entity's number undermines that a little. I want to see HBK have the kitchen sink thrown at him, only for him to tell Bischoff to suck it and come out on top, bleeding and beaten but victorious. That being said, that's still what you're still gunning for with the very fact there's a 4-on-1 Handicap Match for him to deal with on Sunday, so it's not a huge deal, it was merely a (very drawn out) thought.

Oh right, this week's show. Hassan. Thought he could have delivered some verbal goodness. Regardless, the Bischoff characterisation was strong, the rhythm of his speech especially, and in a way this was you underlining his stance at this point of his feud with HBK. I really liked how after he talked about the Entity (the death line was a little much, yes), he brought it right back to himself - the guy is, at heart, a self-centred bastard, and it just works. Even though if the Entity win it'll be their accomplishment, he's taking all the credit, and that's very Bischoff indeed. Loves soaking in his own power. Again, I wasn't expecting Batista but you made it work; it was perhaps a little Bischoff-heavy considering it was Dave's interruption, and I wasn't huge on the Animal's gushing about HBK's ability (weren't they slapping/kicking/Powerbombing each other during the ref scandal a few weeks ago? :side:), but that aside, the stuff about Tista's passion for his title really chimed. It's always been one of his defining traits and I definitely think you should work it in where you can. Again, Bischoff bringing it right back to his own influence and HBK's fate worked a treat, though I'm a little confused on the Entity's appearance - it seemed like a trap, but Eric never mentioned Batista, so how did he know the Animal was going to turn up? A little confusing. Also, I thought we needed some Entity dominance to make up for them being laid out, but Dutt and Daivari got sent for a ride (not such an issue) and Khali and Hassan didn't actually do anything, which was kind of anti-climactic. Ahh, I don't know. I think as an opening segment it did its job (in many ways it was just a preview for when things exploded later) but I think the execution could have been better. I also think given the 'glare' between HBK and Batista suggesting a tense mutual respect or something a little edgier, maybe Batista shouldn't have been so complimentary of him earlier. Maybe I was looking for Hassan and HBK to sit and talk so I'm just miffed I didn't get some deep thematic rambling about God and faith and national perception (just to clarify, what you did was a better option.) I'm never satisfied, am I? Given how the show ends, my issues seem trivial, really. Bischoff is your money man, hence why he got half of Feud of the Year, and he was red-hot here, but Batista didn't really establish a reason for interrupting and I wasn't sure how the Entity came out of it. God I do ramble.

Glad to see some strong Kane character work here - he doesn't align himself with people he sees as beneath him, no matter the face or heel orientation, and that's why he started on the Entity here. Dutt and Daivari's stuttering versus Hassan's more-composed demeanour was a classy touch, especially the concept that Hassan always likes to keep Khali around for his own self-protection. Drives back to the heart that Hassan finds it difficult to trust people - I'm thinking of the Award-nominated 'faith' promo again - and although I doubt you were thinking of it when you wrote this little segment, it's what it made me think of. Hopefully you'll delve into Hassan's inner workings a little more after Unforgiven. Just a thought - not sure heel Kane has to justify anything he says. To anyone.

I like Kennedy in your thread. I like the tweener element, it's not often people try to tackle the tweener and to be honest I think you've just about hit the nail on the head with Ken. His criticisms of Bischoff, for example, scream face, but he's a total asshole and he does what he wants, ala heel. It's a fine balance, but the fact you kind of like his take-no-prisoners attitude is contrasted... you know, by the fact that he likes smacking people around and this outright obsession with proving his own worth. It's nice, I really like it. My slight problem, because I'm channelling Kennedy and saying what's on my mind, is that Kennedy says it's six days until he gets some competition... what if the glass had shattered, or the guitar riff had played, and the REAL Austin or Hart or someone like that came out? Kennedy is making the exact same challenge here as he'll make at Unforgiven, so he kind of gave away that nothing was really going to happen of note here. Eugene as an impersonator actually works quite well - I remember Charlie Haas' brief impersonator gimmick was pretty funny while it lasted, but with Eugene, while he doesn't have Haas' decent ability on the stick (yeah I said it) he has a lot more reason to use the gimmick, given how he's sort of everyone's biggest fan. Obviously Kennedy was going to kill him, though I think he would have got bored before the four minute mark, but that being said it ties right into Kennedy's asshole side and tbh I'm very interested to see who he faces on Sunday. Good stuff, feed us more Kennedy.

A very interesting dynamic between Regal and Haas here. I think you played it pretty much perfectly, though the bits with Haas "in deep thought" might have been a little bit on the nose. Otherwise, it was a controlled piece of character work, and it certainly builds intrigue, because let's face it, you can now go either way on Sunday. You can pull the trigger and have Haas switch sides, or you can have him stand aside and let his feud/partnership with Shelton build. If he doesn't influence the outcome, a Jindrak win could also provide an interesting 'why didn't you help me' bit from Benjamin for a possible Shelton turn too, so as I say, plenty of options. I could see Haas standing beside Benjamin for a little longer, just to keep the title in Shelton's hands, but for me, I'm just not a huge Jindrak fan and maybe I don't want him as IC Champion, who knows. The segment itself is well written and leaves things up in the air just enough. I believe it was DC who once complained in the Discussion Thread that no-one seems to be able to use Haas without having him feud with Benjamin, so I hope we don't just hop into another black-and-white Haas/Benjamin feud, but certainly I'm happy you're giving Haas a bit more spotlight, I did genuinely see a fair bit of potential in the guy.

Oh God the Heart-Throbs. Again, I can't see a match like this stretching to five minutes, but hey, you couldn't exactly put the Entity in there so the Dudleys needed a match of a certain length with someone. A couple of crowd reactions might have set the scene a little better but otherwise you knew what you were doing here. Of course, the focus was on the post-match material, and all in all it was well characterised in that everyone sounded like themselves - though I can't vouch for the Bashams - but I think things just got a little cluttered. Starting with the good, having the Bashams pull their stunt shows they're not content with just hanging around and waiting for a chance, so I like that they have that ambition. Doane and Nemeth really work as arrogant heels, too, and you had their overreacting, dramatic style of talking to a tee. Likewise, the dichotomy between the Dudleys and PTP (O'Neill and Young?) was pretty strong, and I think they'll have a good match on Sunday. My issues - the Bashams on the Tron really would have made things awkward visually, because of the PTP having to crane their necks to look at these guys. Also, while I like the way you've made things a bit more exciting with the introduction of the Bashams, it did feel like they weren't needed - it felt like they detracted a little from the main title feud, so maybe it was a bombshell waiting to be dropped at the pay-per-view, or on next week's show. The Bashams disappearing meant Nemeth then had to awkwardly twist the focus back to the main feud, and Bubba's final line was quite jarring as an end to the segment. Overall, it advanced this whole scene/feud quite considerably, so that's the main thing, but I just had some problems, again, with how it was all executed. Still, I'm intrigued for the title match, so job done.

:lmao While I'd never be that excited to see a Goldust-Eugene team, Goldust's stutter where one word he says turns into something completely diff... di... di - DILIGENTLY WRITING SOME FEEDBACK FOR YOU - different... ahem... could work really well, it's actually quite funny.

Nice stuff for Haas here - Coach's line after the bell suggested that if Haas wants to get any glory or even a win for himself, he needs to stop putting Shelton first, which is, in essence, an integral part of being the good tag team that Haas wishes they could be again. It's quite multi-layered as a concept and I really like the story work, despite the fact that ironically both Benjamin and Jindrak took a little bit of a backseat. Likewise, in the match, which was inevitably better than the two squashes from earlier, it almost seemed like Haas had Jindrak beat before Regal's shenanigans, and for a man challenging for a title on Sunday, maybe Mark just needed to look a little better. That said, he got the 'W' and all in all this was a nice segment. Haas has a huge decision ahead of him and I really look forward to seeing what he chooses. Excellent stuff here.

Kane wants to be the only guy to hurt Batista - great stuff, it's that sadistic side that makes him tick, the idea that if the Entity are punishing the Animal, well then Kane just isn't doing his job right. Odd placement for the segment, though, did it take Kane half a show to find Eric's office? :p

One of the things so crucial to a three-way feud is establishing the difference between the two faces, or in this case, the two heels, who are involved, and you did that well here. Christian's words were good - you're still building from his victory over Flair and you sold the element of him being a 'changed man' pretty well. It also sort of accounts for why he hasn't had a World Title before; he's a different man now and this time he can't be ignored, not after all he's done. Suggesting he IS 'the man' now was a comparison waiting to happen, but it set the tone for Christian's involvement in the rest of the promo and it highlights his impact in the thread so far. Once Edge came out I really liked the sort of 'crazed' element to his speaking pattern, where he speaks in threes and shouts things suddenly, it's very 'Rated R Superstar' and it sells how much he's not just going to align with Christian because they're both heels. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of Money In The Bank holders going for World Title shots, given that they can just cash in it any time - I can't help but feel this could have been Jericho and Christian, with Edge teasing a Batista cash-in just to heat up the main event situation even more. That being said, I've never been one to complain about good promo work and I don't plan to start now. Especially with Edge and Christian trying to suggest that their own personal accomplishments mean more than the other's, MITB vs. the retirement of Flair was a good train of thought to explore. With Y2J, I felt you had a slight problem in the same way that you had with Batista earlier; he came out, but was pretty much immediately interrupted and the other person/people began talking again. That said, Jericho's attempt to get into Edge's head was nicely done, even if he didn't have as much to say as the other two, and Edge basically having a tantrum shows how unpredictable and... well, hateful the guy can be. This was your way of tying everything up going into Sunday, establishing why each of these three men NEED the win (even if Edge just doesn't), and I thought it was pretty well-written all things considered. I'm almost certain it's Christian's time to jump into the main event and let his new status as 'the man' really shine, especially given the angle with him retiring Batista's old mentor, but who knows. Nice job with the feud, should be a good contest.

Small Batista-HBK segment was okay. I think the element of HBK insisting he was out there was good, but I kind of assumed he'd be out there anyway? I figured he'd be involved in some capacity and he didn't need Dave's permission for that. Anyway, it's a small segment and it's not a huge deal. The HBK character remains at the forefront of the viewer's mind.

You sold Victoria as being a total badass in the opening commentary here, then you sold her short a little by having her essentially run away from the fight. I think Coach's line about "she’s not come back to face just any old diva, she’s come back to face Victoria" made it seem like Victoria was unique, a stand-alone individual capable of doing some real damage, but that then vanished really when she didn't want to fight Lita at all. I'd have quite liked to see Lita get in a few shots if Victoria was going to run away, as if Victoria had underestimated her challenger and had to rethink her gameplan. That being said, Lita winning was fine to take us into Sunday, and I don't have a clue who's going over so that was good. I think it would do Victoria wonders to go over Trish AND Lita, but perhaps you're setting up for a new heel to debut down the line and Lita as champion would work well for that. Anyway, solid segment here to build for Sunday.

Good rundown of the card here. Your control of JR and Coach is nicely done, you have their differences spot on.

I'm surprised by the -erm- surprise attack from Kane here - I think it was iMac above me who mentioned that Kane's not really known for that. I might have expected the pyro to go off as Batista was heading for the ring or something, but the sneaky side of things has never really struck me as a Kane kind of thing. Onward, however, and HBK fulfilling his promise to help Batista goes right back to the heart of his character, I like it. From here things just exploded, and you were able to separate Batista/Kane from HBK/Entity easily using the plot device you'd set up earlier with Kane, very nicely done there. Obviously earlier I was worried about how the Entity had looked, but here you turned that all around... handcuffing HBK to the ropes and beating him senseless with a ring bell will do that. Batista Bomb off the stage as well, just to make this one of the most insane endings possible, and really, what a way to take it into Unforgiven. That's not to say all go-home shows in the section must now be 'quick, everyone has to have a massive brawl and there must be blood' but occasionally it really works - and this really, really worked. The fact that Batista gets wiped out too means his match with Kane is still up in the air, plus you sold Kane as a monster because it takes THAT kind of thing to take him down and out. Hassan comes out of this looking like a criminal mastermind, an absolute monster, and this is what I'd been hoping for. His final line was a bit wordy just to get to the 'Unforgiven' bit you wanted - in future I think if you want to get that elaborate he should have a mic in his hands, but otherwise this was a stellar end to the show.

Overall, re-reading the feedback I feel like I've criticised quite a lot, which is odd because I actually really enjoyed the show. I think a lot of it is just minor issues, little things here and there, when in actuality, the 'big picture' if you will is actually shaping up very nicely. Your overall booking in terms of going into Unforgiven is great, you have a brilliant card lined up and it should be a killer show. The Haas/Regal angle is very intriguing, probably what I'm interested in the most purely because of the number of possibilities you have in front of you, while the HBK/Entity stuff got ramped up in intensity tonight and I could see things coming down to a violent and desperate finish between Michaels and Hassan. What I'd definitely like to see after Unforgiven is more of the creativity you showed with the Haas/Regal stuff and the chaotic ending - after a PPV is when you get to take things in whatever direction you choose, and I just think I'd like to see something really unique from you, just to really cement yourself as one of the rising stars, if not one of the stars, of the entire section. Anyway, I hope this feedback was somewhat helpful and not just me moaning about characters, and maybe you actually got something out of it. While I'm here, consider this a minor thank you for all the feedback you send my way, seeing as this is just about my first time of properly returning the favour. Keep the good stuff coming, I'll be back for Unforgiven predictions if not SmackDown feedback. Bon. (Y)
 
#224 ·
WWE Friday Night Smackdown Preview- 16/9/05- Wichita, Texas

Texas is the home this week for Friday Night Smackdown and it is hot off the heels of an extraordinary show last week in Nashville that saw the actions of Kurt Angle and Randy Orton overshadow the main event for the WWE Championship.

With John Cena set to square off against The Undertaker, Angle and Orton showed their faces on the titantron and vented their anger at not having the championship opportunity presented to The Undertaker. The Deadman and Cena tried to ignore the duo’s appearance but Angle and Orton simply wouldn’t go away and in a shocking conclusion to the show, they hijacked the Smackdown production truck before turning the lights out on the main event which left a hostile crowd and no doubt about it, two furious superstars in Cena and the Phenom. We’ve received word that Teddy Long will kick off this week’s show and will address what went down last week. Will the GM take severe action against the Legend Killer and the Wrestling Machine or will there be another punishment in mind?

One huge match all set for this week will see John Bradshaw Layfield go one on one with Rob Van Dam. JBL made a monstrous challenge last week to Bobby Lashley with a First Blood match laid on the table for No Mercy whilst Van Dam and his partner Rey Mysterio again get inside the heads of the Tag Team Champions, MNM. With both these men seemingly on a roll, who’s momentum will come to a halt tonight and will we see or hear anything from these men’s rivals as the road to No Mercy draws nearer?

Carlito picked upa huge victory last week, defeating Matt Hardy to earn himself a United States Title opportunity. Tonight Hardy will be in action as he faces long time rival Orlando Jordan. Will Hardy be able to bounce back with a bang or will the Apple Spitter perhaps get one over on the champion again?

Last week also saw the debut of Cryme Tyme who perhaps shocked a few people in defeating the wily duo, the Pitbulls. This week Cryme Tyme will again be in action as they take on Rene Dupree and Kenzo Suzuki. Will the Cryme Tyme roll continue? And will the Pitbulls have anything to say about their setback last week?


Confirmed for Smackdown:

Teddy Long to kick off the show;

Matt Hardy vs Orlando Jordan

Cryme Tyme vs Rene Dupree and Kenzo Suzuki

John Bradshaw Layfield vs Rob Van Dam


Massive thanks for the Raw feedback gentleman, especially Melvis, always nice to get some fresh input. Appreciate all the thoughts from the three of you and took a fair chunk from it. Not too sure when this will be up, it's nearly there but been working more on Unforgiven, until then, hope all are well.
 
#225 ·
Smackdown Preview

As for Teddy Long when it comes to taking action, the best course of action as far as I am concerned would be to suspend both Orton and Angle indefinitely without pay but I know you wouldn't do that, so I say the best way of punishing them would be to have Angle and Orton face each other or to have them take on the rest of the Smackdown roster in a huge handicap match or have the both of them separately in gauntlet matches with them running the gauntlet

JBL vs RVD, I can't wait to see what happens there

Matt Hardy vs Orlando Jordan, fully expect Carlito Caribbean Cool to get involved in this match costing Hardy a victory

And Cryme Tyme ever since coming on to the scene, they have been impressive
 
#226 · (Edited)

WWE Friday Night Smackdown- 16/9/05- Wichita, Texas​

The show begins with a video package highlighting last week’s main event as we get the arrival of both John Cena and The Undertaker to the ring with the WWE Championship on the line between the two but as the bell rings and the two superstars get going we see Kurt Angle and Randy Orton appear on the titantron. We then get a rundown of what the two said before the shocking ending to the show that saw Angle and Orton hijack the production truck and turn the lights out on the main event, leaving the arena in total darkness with Angle and Orton simply stating that the ‘Show’s over’.

We then head to the opening video before heading straight into the ring, no pyro tonight as we can overhear the music of Smackdown’s General Manager in the background before seeing Teddy Long is already in the ring, microphone in hand and set to address the ending of last week’s show.

Teddy Long: I hate to come out here and start things off wit’ a negative but sometimes ya just can’t wait a second longer and that’s exactly the way I’m feelin’ here tonight.

Long is clearly in a slightly deflated mood, no dancing or ‘holla, holla’ from the GM tonight.

Teddy Long: Last week we had ourselves one HELL of a main event lined up. John Cena defendin’ the WWE Title...against The Undertaker. But that’s not what went down and that’s all because of two men, Kurt Angle…and Randy Orton.

Strong heat for the mention of both Angle and Orton.

Teddy Long: Those two superstars decided they were gonna take matters into their own hands last week. They decided to hijack the production truck backstage and forced WWE employees to turn the lights out as our main event took place.

Again, a chorus of boos as Long shakes his head.

Teddy Long: In all my time here as Smackdown General Manager, in all my time here in the WWE, I have NEVER experienced anything like that. For anybody to do something like that, even for me to do that in my role as General Manager would be as blatant an abuse of power as there could possibly be. But for two superstars to do that? That simply ain’t tolerable, that ain’t acceptable and right here tonight, Kurt Angle and Randy Orton are gonna face the consequences.

Nice pop for that, the crowd perhaps sensing or even hoping for T-Long to fire the two villains.

Teddy Long: So let’s not waste another second, Kurt, Randy, come on down here so we can deal wit’ this thing for EVE…

‘My Time is Now’​

Well it is NOT Kurt Angle and it is NOT Randy Orton that emerge, it is instead the WWE Champion who comes on out to a HUGE pop with John Cena looking less than impressed, no spinning of his title belt, no look around the arena, just a fast paced walk down to the ring, all eyes on Teddy Long.

Michael Cole: Well we welcome you to Friday Night Smackdown ladies and gentleman it is a down to business approach to kick things off. Teddy Long requesting the arrival of Kurt Angle and Randy Orton but instead he’s got the Champ!

Tazz: And John Cena damn sure don’t look in the mood for any games here tonight. He wanted to face The Undertaker last week, he wanted to prove he could beat The Undertaker and he never got the chance thanks to Kurt Angle and thanks to Randy Orton. I gotta feelin’ Cena’s gonna want exactly the same as Teddy Long here tonight and that’s for those two to face the consequences.

Cena requests a mic and is handed one, a stern look on his face with T-Long not looking all too thrilled to see him out here.

Teddy Long: John listen, I know you’re upset playa bu…

John Cena: No, no, YOU need to listen. What they did last week, that ain’t acceptable, you’re right but Teddy I’m tellin’ you right here, right now…do NOT fire them, do NOT suspend them, infact don’t do a DAMN THING!! Instead? You let me KICK THEIR ASSES ALL OVER TEXAS TONIGHT!!

Major roar at that challenge from Cena who is pumped up to say the least.

Teddy Long: John I gotta take action. Me givin’ them what they want, that ain’t action, ya understand? That’s givin’ in to my superstars, that’s givin’ in to pressure, that’s givin’ in to somethin’ that just ain’t right. So John I can NOT give you Kurt Angle or Randy Orton here tonight.

A resounding level of boos as Cena turns his head away in anger.

Teddy Long: Ya gotta understand where I’m comin’ from playa. You may be the WWE Champion but I’m the General Manager of this show and it is my duty to take action after what went down last week. If I don’t then not only do they get away with what they did but that puts my position under threat and John, whether ya like it or not, that ain’t somethin’ I can allow to happen.

Cena again appears frustrated although nodding his head this time as Long’s body language is apologetic in Cena’s direction.

John Cena: Oh I understand where you’re comin’ from Teddy but to be pretty honest with ya, I don’t give a damn.

Long looks pretty surprised by that comment.

John Cena: You wanna take action? Put ‘em in this ring with me TONIGHT and I’ll take action for ya. You suspending them? You firin’ them? It ain’t doin’ nobody any favours. Think of it this way Teddy, who do you really wanna have to deal with? Two cowards like Angle or Orton, who are gonna run and hide at every corner? Or a PISSED OFF WWE Champion and A REAL ANGRY DEADMAN!?

An almighty pop for that as Cena raises the intensity.

John Cena: You think about that long and hard Teddy cos the consequences you talk about for the two of them ain’t gonna be NOTHIN’ compared to the consequences I got in mind if you make the wrong choice.

Cena is all fired up here and the crowd are firmly behind the champion as Long looks a little ruffled by that.

Teddy Long: I get it, I do. Last week was a chance for you to face a legend in this business for the biggest prize in the game. It was a chance for you to prove exactly why you hold that title, a chance for you to prove to the world why John Cena is number one around here and ya didn’t get that.

Cena shakes his head mouthing ‘You damn right I didn’t’

Teddy Long: But despite all that, it does not mean you can call the shots around here John, that’s my job. So if you would allow me to do just that, I have a job to do and I’m gonna get down to it…right now. With that being said, Kurt, Randy would you pl…

John Cena: Woah, woah, woah, hold on Teddy, hold on. You got a job to do, I get that, I understand but Teddy I got a job to do too and that job needs to be finished…tonight.

Big pop for this, Cena making it very clear what he came to Texas for tonight.

John Cena: So Teddy I’m gonna ask you one last time. Tonight, Wichita, Texas…

Cheap pop.

John Cena: You give me Randy Orton and Kurt Angle in the middle of this ring and you let the two of them face their consequences head on, you let ‘em face the music tonight. To me? To me that sounds like a heck of an idea and you’d better believe these people feel the exact same way.

Right on cue the crowd throw a huge cheer at that declaration.

John Cena: Only one thing’s stoppin’ it Teddy…and that’s you. You got the power to make it happen, don’t let me down, don’t let these people down, don’t let this show, YOUR show down.

Long pauses for a moment, the crowd are egging Long on to give Cena what he wants, a real buzz of excitement as Long thinks momentarily, Cena holding his arms out as if to say ‘What’s it gonna be?’

Teddy Long: I can’t allow that to happen John. Kurt and Randy need to face severe conseque…

OHHHHHH!!! THE CROWD ARE GOING CRAZY AS JOHN CENA SCOOPS TEDDY LONG UP!! CENA HAS HEARD ENOUGH FROM THE SMACKDOWN GM!! FU!! FU TO TEDDY LONG!! Statement made from the WWE Champion!! Cena throws a salute up to the crowd who are still cheering wildly before Cena grabs a microphone again, the noise dying down…

John Cena: If the two of them have gotta face your consequences, then you gonn’ have to face mine Teddy. You got a choice to make, you either gimme Kurt, you gimme Randy or else I’ma give you a whole lot more where that came from.

And with that Cena tosses the mic down with an emphatic thud before his music plays over the speakers, the crowd still going wild for the champion as Teddy Long is laid out in the middle of the ring, a shocking beginning to Friday Night Smackdown.

Michael Cole: An explosive start to Friday Night Smackdown!! John Cena wanted Randy Orton, he wanted Kurt Angle and so did Teddy Long but for very different reasons here tonight and Tazz, who could’ve seen that coming?!

Tazz: Unbelievable Cole. The Champ is ALL fired up and it don’t matter who gets in his path here tonight, be it Teddy Long or not, he’s gonna take action until he gets what he wants. If I were Kurt Angle or Randy Orton I’d be stayin’ as far away from John Cena as possible here tonight.

Commercials​

We return and we head off backstage where we join Kristal Marshall who is standing by, all smiles, ready and waiting to speak with us.

Kristal Marshall: Ladies and gentleman please welcome my guest at this time, the United States Champion, Matt Hardy!!

Hardy enters the scene to a big pop from the Texas faithful as he looks to be in a buoyant mood here tonight, all set for action later on this evening.

Kristal Marshall: Matt at Summerslam you retained your United States Title by defeating Carlito but last week the roles were reversed and Carlito managed to beat you, earning himself another chance at your title. Do you feel the momentum is now with Carlito ahead of your championship match?

Matt Hardy: Momentum’s a funny word Kristal and it’s one that I don’t think much of to be honest. I could have all the momentum in the world right now, I could have so little momentum you wouldn’t think I stood a chance but either way I’d go into that match with Carlito, I’d go into my match later on tonight with the exact same mindset and that is that I will walk out victorious no matter what gets thrown my way.

Strong words from Hardy which are greeted with a mild cheer.

Matt Hardy: Yeah I lost last week but it happens, it’s how I deal with it, it’s how I respond to it that really counts and in that ring tonight you’ll see just what my response is gonna be.

Kristal Marshall: Well Matt I interviewed Carlito following your defeat last week and he made some pretty bold statements, what would your response to those statements be?

Hardy pauses, thinking for a minute.

Matt Hardy: I heard that interview, I heard each and every single word of it and you’re right, there were some pretty strong statements in there, some harsh words but Kristal that’s all they are, words. They don’t mean anything, all that matters is actions and when I put my title on the line against Carlito, words aren’t gonna be enough for him to take this away from me.

Hardy points down at the title around his waist, the camera zooming in on it.

Matt Hardy: But…y’know what? There was something that hit me last week, there was something Carlito said that made me sit up and think hey, you might be onto something there.

Kristal looks confused as Hardy smiles, nobody quite sure what he means.

Matt Hardy: But I’m not gonna deal with that now. What I am gonna do is get ready for my match tonight, head on down to that ring, put last week completely outta my mind and have my hand raised high in victory. And only after that…am I gonna call Carlito out and I’m gonna give him exactly…what he wants.

A lot of confusion comes out of that interview as Hardy heads off, a wry smile still etched on his face as we then head back to ringside where we hear…

‘Brooklyn, Brooklyn’

‘Bringin’ Da Hood 2 U’​

And it’s a sizeable pop that greets the music of the boys from Brooklyn, Cryme Tyme!! Shad and JTG burst down the ramp, high fiving fans as JTG does his stupid little dance, tipping his cap and the recently debuted team get set for action.

Michael Cole: All set for some tag team action here tonight and these two men made quite the impact on their debut last week Tazz. Cryme Tyme causing what some people might call an upset, defeating the Pitbulls, Jamie Noble and Kid Kash.

Tazz: Might call an upset? I’d definitely call it an upset!! We don’t know a whole lot about these two but they damn sure looked impressive against two of the toughest guys around this place, Noble and Kash. Tonight’s gonna be a different kinda test for these two but after last week, I got no doubts they can pull it off.

‘Final Force’​

And out next to a few boos but nothing too spectacular is the still bizarre pairing that is Rene Dupree and Kenzo Suzuki with Dupree smiling arrogantly, Suzuki looking his usual stern figure as he eyes up Shad and JTG.

Michael Cole: Big opportunity tonight for these two men. Kenzo Suzuki and Rene Dupree, both very talented individuals but they’ve not been able to get on a roll since they were beaten by the animal that is Bobby Lashley back at the Bash.

Tazz: I don’t think anybody woulda beaten Lashley on that night, heck nobody’s beaten him at all. These two dudes have gotta regroup now and they gotta start getting on the winnin’ trail, tonight would be a hell of a time to do it.

Match One: Tag Team Match

Cryme Tyme vs Rene Dupree and Kenzo Suzuki

It’s a reversal from their debut last week as this time it’s Shad Gaspard who kicks things off with Kenzo Suzuki being the man to start off in the opposite corner. Shad starts off in powerful fashion with big right hands leaving Suzuki backed up in the corner, Shad taking a big run up before launching himself at his helpless opponent but Suzuki sees it coming and dodges the bullet, Shad crashing into the turnbuckle!!

Suzuki now takes full advantage and works over Shad for a couple of minutes, stiff boots to the gut before some vicious elbows right into the throat and chest with Shad looking winded, the damage being done by the dangerous Suzuki. Suzuki pulls Shad out of the corner before levelling the big man with a clothesline, sending him over towards his partner Dupree and Suzuki heads over also making the tag, the Frenchman entering the ring and picking up where Suzuki left off. Vicious stomps by Dupree before he drops some knees right onto the chest of Shad, big time impact with Shad grimacing in pain. Dupree then drops down and applies a Sleeper hold on the big man, looking to wear him down and keep him grounded.

The crowd support and support of Shad’s partner however seems to inspire the big man who digs deep and finds it in him to break free and it proves to be a turning point. Shad fights out of it and immediately goes to town on Dupree, huge rights from the powerhouse but as he goes for one more Dupree blocks it, Irish whip by the Frenchman, Shad rebounds and he TAKES DUPREE’S HEAD OFF WITH A BIG BOOT!! Shad drops as well, the punishment he’s endured now taking its toll as he crawls on his knees towards his partner, JTG awaiting anxiously and Shad makes the tag!! JTG hops over the ropes and comes storming in, running the ropes before dropping Dupree with a leaping clothesline!! Dupree gets to his feet quickly after but he’s caught with a big dropkick!! JTG is rolling BUT SUZUKI CLUBS HIM FROM BEHIND!! The referee orders him out of the ring BUT SHAD DOES THE HONOURS!! Shad comes storming in and grabs Suzuki from behind before tossing him up and over the ropes, Suzuki taking a crash landing!!

The fans now sense the end is near as Shad grabs Dupree, Irish whip, Dupree rebounds, SAMOAN DROP AND JTG COMES FROM BEHIND WITH THAT RUNNING CORKSCREW NECKBREAKER!! A MOVE CRYME TYME CALL THE G9!! Cover by JTG, 1…2…3…big win for the Brooklyn boys.


Winners: Cryme Tyme(6:04)

Michael Cole: Cryme Tyme with another big win here tonight!! JTG and Shad are looking like big time players here in the Tag division Tazz and if I were MNM, if I were Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio I’d be looking over my shoulder because these two men seem to be on a real roll and that roll may lead them towards the Tag Team Titles.

Tazz: Hey I know it’s early on in their Smackdown careers but if they keep on this roll you mentioned Cole then I think you might be right, these two may be lookin’ at the Tag Team Titles real soon. Big win again for the Brooklyn boys tonight and remember, they ‘ain’t steal nothin’!!

Tazz tries to be hilarious in using Cryme Tyme’s catchphrase as JTG and Shad are celebrating inside the ring, JTG again doing his ridiculous dance, Shad even bopping around a little bit as their music plays in the background, both men then exiting the ring and embracing with fans as we fade out.

Commercials​

We return and head backstage where we see the victorious Cryme Tyme walking through the halls and the duo are all smiles, laughing and joking with one another before we see white as white can be, Todd Grisham enter the scene, filling in for Josh Matthews here tonight.

Todd Grisham: Guys congratulations on another victory here tonight, just how confident are you two that not only will these victories continue but they’ll lead you towards the Tag Team Titles?

Shad and JTG look at each other before beginning to laugh.

JTG: Yo, yo, yo my brother befo’ you be approachin’ Cryme Tyme you gotta learn a few rules a’ight?

Grisham looks confused but nods.

JTG: First off, you better lose da glasses, they don’t suit you dawg.

And with that Shad removes Grisham’s glasses with the SD interviewer suddenly bulging his eyes clearly unable to see.

Shad Gaspard: Now they outta the way we move onto our next point of interest Toddy and…wait, ain’t you ‘posed to be on Raw?

Todd Grisham: Yeah I’m just filling in for Josh Matthews toni…

Shad Gaspard: Josh… who the hell is Jo…? Anyways, forget that, look we gotta get rid of that jacket homie, it ain’t doin’ nothin’ for you and hey, it ain’t doin’ nothin’ for us bein’ seen wit’ you.

Right on cue JTG removes Todd’s jacket.

Todd Grisham: Guys I…I can’t see here.

JTG: It’s a’ight Toddy, we gonn’ give da glasses back when this interview’s over wit’.

Todd Grisham: And…and the jacket?

Shad Gaspard: Of course, whadda you take us for man? We ain’t no criminals.

Shad is now trying on Grisham’s jacket, Grisham oblivious to the fact as the crowd gives a few laughs.

Todd Grisham: Ok soooo as I was saying…

Grisham’s not even looking at the duo now who have moved with Grisham’s vision completely gone before BAMMMMM!! SHAD AND JTG ARE ATTACKED FROM BEHIND BY THE PITBULLS!! KID KASH AND JAMIE NOBLE KNOCKING THE BROOKLYN BOYS DOWN!! Cryme Tyme are helpless here as Noble and Kash stomp the hell out of them, payback for last week’s defeat. Noble yanks JTG to his feet, a snarl on his face before he charges and SMASHES JTG’s skull off the wall!! JTG drops to the floor before we see Kash, now joined by Noble drag the bigger Shad to his feet before they deliver a double Irish whip and SHAD GOES FLYING INTO RIGHT INTO THE SAME WALL, A DEVASTATING THUD AS HIS HEAD CRASHES INTO THAT BRICK WALL!! Noble and Kash stand tall over the fallen duo, a look of sheer aggression on their faces before they head off and all we see is Cryme Tyme completely laid out, a chorus of boos heard back inside the arena.

We then return ringside where we see Sylvain Grenier already in the ring and set for action, his music dying down before we hear…

‘Stay in Shadow’​

And it’s a strong pop that greets the music of Paul London who bursts down the ramp at top speed, accompanied by Brian Kendrick who also dashes down and slides into the ring with London all set for action.

Michael Cole: Well shocking actions from the Pitbulls here tonight, they had no right doing that to Cryme Tyme but focusing things back to the action here tonight and the match was confirmed last week, Paul London will get his Cruiserweight Championship match against Gregory Helms at No Mercy with Brian Kendrick in his corner, the numbers now at long last being evened but Tazz we heard last week from Gregory Helms who said that the numbers don’t matter, inside the ring it’s one on one and Helms is simply better than Paul London. Certainly strong words from the champion.

Tazz: No doubt about it, question on everybody’s lips now is, can Gregory Helms back it up come No Mercy? The dude’s as talented as they come but so is Paul London, I can’t call it but hey, if anybody can pull it off it’s gonna be the champ. London’s got it all to do if he wants to win that championship
back and who knows? Brian Kendrick could play just as big a role in this thing.

Match Two: Singles Match

Paul London w/Brian Kendrick vs Sylvain Grenier

London looks for a fast start, trying to take his bigger opponent out of the contest early on. London scores with some big right hands, knocking Grenier off balance before scoring with a beautiful dropkick off of an Irish whip before coming close with a near fall. London attempts to keep the pace high but as he goes for a flying crossbody off the top, he’s caught by Grenier who follows up with a big time powerslam as the balance of power shifts the way of the Frenchman.

Grenier keeps London grounded, working over his smaller opponent with an array of kicks and stiff right hands before applying an abdominal stretch that really seems to cause London a lot of discomfort as he winces in agony, crying out in pain as Grenier really looks to punish the plucky Cruiserweight.

London tries with all his might to rise to his feet and manages to get to his knees, Kendrick along with the fans try and get London back into it, willing him on and it appears to work as London gets himself right back into it, escaping Grenier’s clutches before firing right at him with a flurry of rights, boot to the gut follows but Grenier catches it, ENZIGURI CONNECTS!! London with that big time momentum changer and it’s all the #1 contender from that point on as Grenier can’t handle the speed with London catching him with a beautiful jumping DDT, following it off with a picture perfect 450 Splash off the top as London covers Grenier for the three count, a victory of the highest order.


Winner: Paul London(7:01)

Michael Cole: Another hugely impressive victory here tonight from Paul London!! Sylvain Grenier may be bigger, he may be stronger but Paul London showing just how quick, just how agile he is here tonight and I think that is well and truly statement made from the number one contender here tonight.

Tazz: Gotta agree with ya on that one Cole, major props to Paul London here tonight. Helms said it last week, all that matters is inside the ring where it’s one on one and tonight London got the job done baby, huge win for Paul London.

London and Kendrick celebrate inside the ring, Kendrick embracing his partner and congratulating him on that win tonight before raising his hand high in the air, the crowd cheering for the performance given by the number one contender an…

‘Listen, It’s Time’​

But the celebrations are cut short as the music of the Cruiserweight Champion hits and out steps Gregory Helms alongside Chavo Guerrero. Both men are applausing amidst the boos, dressed casually they step out onto the stage, Helms having a mic in his hand as Chavo points down saying ‘You were impressive Paul’. London and Kendrick turn their attentions to the duo, a look of intrigue especially on London’s face.

Gregory Helms: Congratulations Paul, congratulations, that was real impressive out there tonight.

Helms again takes a second to applaud, the crowd not buying his ‘sincerity’.

Gregory Helms: It’s like…it’s like ya confidence has just shot up isn’t it? It’s like you’ve found a new lease of life Paul and I gotta ask ya…why is that? Why have you suddenly got a bit of a strut in ya step again? Why has the smile come back Paul?

London conveniently smiles as he and Kendrick discuss something.

Gregory Helms: Cos let’s look back a couple months when I beat you for this Cruiserweight title. There was no smile was there? There was no strut in ya step was there? There was nothin’ to ya was there Paul? So…so what’s changed? What’s different now to way back when? OH!! Chavo, Chavo I got it man!! I know what it is!! It’s…it’s your little buddy Brian Kendrick isn’t it?!

Helms and Chavo look shocked that Helms ‘figured that out’ as London rolls his eyes, Kendrick having a chuckle.

Gregory Helms: Everything that was goin’ wrong, it’s just…it’s all turned right round hasn’t it? Just because you got your little buddy by ya side, ain’t that right Paul? See you people might think I’m jokin’ around, you might think I’m just messin wit’ Paul here tonight but you’d better believe I’m tellin’ the truth.

Helms nods, Chavo mouthing ‘This is the truth right here’

Gregory Helms: Paul London has suffered defeat at the hands of me, he’s taken a beating at the hands of me, he’s come up short tryin’ to get the better of me time and time again but then suddenly Brian Kendrick comes along like…like his knight in shinin’ armour.

Helms laughs.

Gregory Helms: And suddenly everything is right in the life of Paul London again. Well, that’s at least…what he believes. He believes that Brian Kendrick is the missin’ piece in the puzzle that is ‘Gregory Helms’, he believes that Brian Kendrick is evenin’ the odds, he believes that Brian Kendrick is gonna help him take back the Cruiserweight Championship.

London and Kendrick are still talking in the ring, clearly not content with what Helms is saying.

Gregory Helms: Well I got a few questions on that for ya Paul. Does Brian Kendrick make me any less dangerous at No Mercy? Is Brian Kendrick bein’ in your corner gonna stop me from takin’ your damn head off in the middle of that ring? Does Brian Kendrick wan…

Brian Kendrick: Does Brian Kendrick want you to shut your mouth?

Big time pop for that as Kendrick has grabbed a mic and interrupted Helms little speech.

Brian Kendrick: The answer to that is pretty obvious. Seeing as you got a few questions in mind here tonight, I got one of my own and I’m pretty sure I speak for Paul on this one too. How bout you stop talking, come on down to this ring and prove to us, prove to everybody that the odds really are…still in your favour?

Kendrick then motions for Helms and Chavo to bring it as the pair stare at each other like ‘WTF?’ as Helms bites back.

Gregory Helms: Who in the heck asked you to talk spanky? I’ve been sayin’ this whole damn time, you ain’t a factor at No Mercy, you ain’t a factor AT ALL!! So how bout you leave this to me and your buddy there and take a walk before I send you on one?

There’s a bit of a buzz in the crowd following that statement as Kendrick looks a little riled and London grabs the mic from him.

Paul London: Brian’s right Greg. If he’s such a non factor, why don’t you come on down to this ring and prove why the odds are still in your favour? Why don’t you come down here and back up what you just said huh? Make Brian take a walk and hey, while you’re at, why don’t you make me take one too?

Nice pop for that, London showing some intensity despite his usual laidback nature. Helms and Chavo now have a brief discussion as London sits on the middle rope, inviting the duo down to join them. We then see that Chavo Guerrero has taken the mic from Helms who looks very disgruntled.

Chavo Guerrero: Your Cruiserweight Champion doesn’t even wanna waste his breath responding to that Paul. He doesn’t need to respond to you, he doesn’t need to come down here and back up what he just said, that’s what No Mercy’s gonna be for. That’s your problem Paul, you don’t look at the bigger picture.

Chavo wags a finger at London before continuing.

Chavo Guerrero: You don’t look at what’s really important do you? You might have had the better of us lately but Paul does that count for anything? Does it put that Cruiserweight Title around your waist? No, no it doesn’t and why? Because you don’t do it when it REALLY counts. You can’t pull it off when it actually MATTERS. You’re not quite up to it Paul and Brian Kendrick isn’t gonna cure that problem.

Helms yells ‘He ain’t curin’ nothin’

Chavo Guerrero: Nothing can cure that problem because the cold, hard facts are that Gregory Helms does do it when it really matters. Gregory Helms does pull it off when it actually matters and that’s what makes him the GREATEST Cruiserweight in the WWE and that’s why he stands before you as the Cruiserweight Champion.

Massive boos for this as Helms points at his title, a devilish grin on his face as London and Kendrick look on with a ‘I couldn’t give two fucks’ face.

Paul London: Listen, we invited the two of you down to this ring cos for us? The time for talkin’ is over… but after hearing that bunch of crap just now I’m guessing you aren’t gonna take up our offer so uh, me and Brian... have got a different plan in mind.

And with that London drops the mic, he and Kendrick nod at one another before BOTH MEN FLY OUTTA THE RING AND UP THE RAMP!! LONDON AND KENDRICK GONNA TAKE THE FIGHT TO HELMS AND GUERRERO!! London and Kendrick charge up the ramp, Helms and Chavo look ready to stand strong…before they hightail it through the curtain, wanting no piece of the Daredevil Duo as London and Kendrick stop in their tracks at the top of the ramp, hands on hips, clearly frustrated as the crowd boos Helms and Guerrero’s cowardice tonight.

Michael Cole: Gregory Helms and Chavo Guerrero running scared here tonight!! Tazz they said the odds weren’t evened, they said that Brian Kendrick was a non factor but do you really believe a word they say after this? Clearly the Cruiserweight Champion is on edge ahead of No Mercy, I don’t think anybody can deny that.

Tazz: I think Helms is just bein’ smart Cole. Ya heard what him and Chavo had to say and they’re just waiting for No Mercy, they don’t need to do this tonight, they can wait a few more weeks and Helms can wait to once again prove why in his opinion and right now the facts don’t lie, he is the greatest Cruiserweight in the WWE.

Another shot of a frustrated London and Kendrick with London holding out his arms to the crowd who show some sympathy with Kendrick clearly mouthing the word ‘Damn’ as we head out to a break.

Commercials​

We return and go straight into a video package…


We see a dark room with a simple spotlight as some end of the world esque, dark music plays and into that spotlight steps Randy Orton.

Narrator: There are those who show no respect.

Orton stands in the spotlight and smirks before we then cut to footage from Summerslam where Orton hammers The Undertaker with a deadly RKO counter to the chokeslam.

We go again back to that spotlight where this time stands Rob Van Dam who plays with his hands as if warming up for battle, a fierce look on his face.

Narrator: There are those who have no regrets.

We see action of Van Dam following MNM backstage before we see footage from The Great American Bash of Van Dam kicking Joey Mercury’s head off before a shot of Van Dam exhausted having laid it all on the line.

We once more go back to the spotlight, the same eerie music playing but it’s slowly picking up pace as into the light comes Carlito, apple in hand as he tosses it up and down.

Narrator: There are those who show no class.

Footage from Summerslam where Carlito ambushed Matt Hardy backstage is shown before we see Lito’s trademark as he spits apple into the face of Hardy, a wry smile on his face after doing so.

Again we go back to the spotlight, this time there stands the WWE Champion himself, John Cena who proudly points down at the title around his waist.

Narrator: There are those who show no fear.

We then see shots of Cena tearing into John Bradshaw Layfield in their bloody Last Man Standing match at Judgment Day before we see more action from Cena defending his title at the Bash against Layfield, Angle and Orton before a final image of Cena holding his title up high.

Narrator: And then there are those who show…No Mercy.

And with that we get a shot of a roaring Kurt Angle appear into the spotlight before footage of Angle putting Shawn Michaels in the Ankle Lock before more victims falling at the hands of Angle’s ruthless streak including John Cena, Randy Orton and Rob Van Dam as the dark music really kicks into gear before slowly dying down again and we get flashing images of Angle, Cena, Carlito, Van Dam and finally Randy Orton before a dramatic, sudden stop to the music​


Coming off that video package we return backstage where we see the entrance to the arena, there’s nobody or nothing there before we see slowly entering the building are Kurt Angle and Randy Orton!! There’s strong boos for the arrival of the duo after their actions last week and Kristal Marshall immediately bursts onto the scene.

Kristal Marshall: Randy, Kurt do you guys have any comment on your actions last week?

Angle and Orton just stare a hole through Kristal, no response whatsoever.

Kristal Marshall: Uh…do you have anything to say on Teddy Long promising to take action against you?

Again Angle and Orton offer no kind of response, however this time they share a look at one another. We can’t quite make out just what their thought process is though.

Kristal Marshall: Well if you have nothing to say on those two matters, do you have anything to say regarding John Cena and his action…

Kurt Angle: We’ve got a whole lot to say Kristal. We’ve got a lot to say about last week, we’ve got a lot to say about John Cena and we’ve DAMN SURE got a lot to say about Teddy Long.

Angle now chuckles to himself.

Randy Orton: But we’re not gonna waste our time explaining it all in this little interview, we’re better than this, we’re bigger than this. What we are gonna do is head out to that ring, out to OUR ring later on tonight and we’re gonna let everybody know exactly what our response is.

Kristal Marshall: Guys I appreciate that but wou…

Kurt Angle: This interview…is over.

And with that Angle and Orton head off, a defiant look in both of their eyes, all set to make an address later on tonight as we return back to ringside…

Michael Cole: Well they are hear, they are in the building and it appears as though Kurt Angle and Randy Orton will make an address later on tonight right here on Smackdown and with that Tazz I think the questions begin.

Tazz: Absolutely, a lotta questions that need answerin’ and I can only hope Angle and Orton deliver those answers tonight.

‘Longhorn’​

Cole and Tazz are cut off however by the oh so familiar sound of John Bradshaw Layfield’s music as out comes the trademark White limousine and out steps the Wall Street Warrior himself who is all smiles as he removes his hat to take in the jeers.

Michael Cole: Well there were a lot of questions for this man last week also but he answered them and he answered them with one hell of a challenge for Bobby Lashley.

Tazz: Got that right Cole. A First Blood match between JBL and Lashley at No Mercy, will Lashley accept the challenge? Hey, we don’t even know if Lashley will come back after that attack by Bradshaw a few weeks back.

‘One of a Kind’​

And it’s a HUGE pop that meets the music of Rob Van Dam who bounces out onto the stage and is accompanied by his partner Rey Mysterio, Van Dam set for some singles action tonight despite his quest for Tag Team glory come No Mercy.

Michael Cole: It was a heated confrontation last week between these two men and the team they face at No Mercy, MNM. MNM claimed that Teddy Long was displaying blatant favouritism in granting Van Dam and Mysterio another rematch, something which didn’t sit well with the high flying duo.

Tazz: It didn’t and ya can’t blame ‘em either. They do deserve another shot at No Mercy, the odds are in their favour at long last but with those odds comes a whole lotta pressure and it’s up to Rey and Rob to handle that when No Mercy rolls round.

Match Three: Singles Match

John Bradshaw Layfield vs Rob Van Dam w/Rey Mysterio

It’s a cagey start with Bradshaw not wanting to throw himself into this, recognising the speed and athleticism of his opponent. We get several lock ups only for JBL to break them all and move away, composing himself once again but on the final one as Bradshaw goes to break it again, Van Dam strikes with a kick to the back of Layfield’s head!! JBL doesn’t like it one bit and immediately heads out the ring, wanting no piece of Van Dam in the early minutes with Mr.Friday Night showing why he’s so dangerous.

JBL regroups on the outside but it doesn’t last long as Van Dam heads his way and HURLS HIMSELF UP AND OVER, WIPING JBL OUT WITH A PLANCHA!! Both men down as the crowd goes wild for RVD, Rey Mysterio encouraging his partner as Van Dam slowly gets to his knees. Van Dam keeps Bradshaw on the outside, bringing him to his feet before striking with a boot to the gut as Van Dam then looks to bash JBL face first off the barrier but Bradshaw blocks it and elbows Van Dam in the face. RVD spirals backwards and JBL with a clothesline takes him down!!

The Wall Street Warrior now dominates Van Dam for several minutes, tossing him back inside the ring and working over the high flier in his usual rough house style, some really deadly strikes, right hands, boots, typical smashmouth JBL here as Van Dam remains grounded. Bradshaw eventually does bring Van Dam up, nailing him with a stiff elbow before an Irish whip, Van Dam rebounds and JBL CONNECTS WITH A BEAUTIFUL FALLAWAY SLAM!! Cover by Bradshaw, 1…2…kick out from RVD.

It’s all JBL here as the ‘Wrestling God’ perhaps surprisingly decides he’s gonna head up high!! JBL taking a leaf out of Van Dam’s book as he stands on top of the turnbuckle and…and JBL does the ‘R-V-D’ thumbs to shoulders schtick which draws insane heat before Bradshaw flies, ELBOW DROP OFF THE TOP, NOBODY HOME!!

Van Dam dodges it and the tables turn here as Mr.Friday Night takes over. JBL rises to his feet but Van Dam with a boot to the gut before he runs the ropes and a Spinning Heel Kick takes Layfield down!! Van Dam is now the one to do his ‘R-V-D’ taunt to the fans who eat it up as Van Dam runs the ropes once more, ROLLING THUNDER CONNECTING!! The end is near for Rob Van Dam as he looks around the crowd and decides to head up high!! But the crowd’s cheers turn…to jeers? As we see MNM BURST THROUGH THE CROWD!! JOEY MERCURY, JOHNNY NITRO CLUBBING REY MYSTERIO FROM BEHIND AND VAN DAM HASN’T SEEN IT YET!!

The referee has now gone to the ropes and is ordering the duo away with Van Dam still up high but now seeing what’s going on BUT BEFORE HE CAN DO ANYTHING WE SEE MELINA ON THE APRON AND SHE LOW BLOWS VAN DAM!! RVD drops down to the mat, damage done by Melina as JBL rises to his feet, using the ropes to drag himself up. Mercury and Nitro are backing away from the fallen Mysterio, pleading their innocence as they link back up with Melina. Inside the ring, Van Dam is stirring as JBL runs the ropes and HE TAKES VAN DAM’S HEAD OFF WITH A CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL!! Cover by Bradshaw, 1…2…3…big win for the Wall Street Warrior.


Winner: John Bradshaw Layfield(9:14)

Michael Cole: MNM costing Rob Van Dam tonight!! Van Dam looked in control, JBL was in all kinds of trouble before the Tag Team Champions stuck their noses in and…and now look!! MNM going a step too far here!!

Tazz: Looks like JBL ain’t finished either!!

Indeed Mercury, Nitro and Bradshaw are all stomping the hell out of Van Dam inside the ring, the crowd are booing the hell out of the trio as we see Melina now on the apron, barking orders at her men, yelling and screaming to ‘MAKE HIM SUFFER’. Mercury now drops down and begins pounding at Van Dam with stiff right hands to the skull as JBL and Nitro continue putting the boot in BUT WE THEN SEE REY MYSTERIO COME FLYING THROUGH THE ROPES, MYSTERIO BACK TO HIS FEET AND REY STRIKES NITRO WITH KICKS TO THE KNEE!! JBL comes after Mysterio though and strikes with a right hand but Rey fights back with more kicks!! JBL on the backfoot BUT NITRO TAKES REY DOWN WITH A CLUBBING BLOW FROM BEHIND!!

Michael Cole: The numbers game proving just too much for Rey Mysterio!! Mysterio and Van Dam are in big trouble here!!

Tazz: I think MNM’s intentions are clear, they aren’t gonna let these two even make it to No Mercy and looks like JBL wants in on it too, any excuse for the ‘Wrestling God’ to dish out a beatin’.

Mercury and Nitro now join forces, pulling Mysterio up as we see Melina, that devilish smirk on her face as her boys hold Mysterio upright and JBL begins rolling his arm around, the anticipation rises as the crowd now exactly what’s coming here. JBL runs the ropes…

‘HELL WILL BE CALLIN’ YOUR NAME’​

BUT JBL STOPS RIGHT IN HIS TRACKS, MNM THROWING MYSTERIO ASIDE AS THE MUSIC OF BOBBY LASHLEY HITS AND THE ARENA EXPLODES!! LASHLEY STORMS DOWN THE RAMP AND HE’S GOT JBL IN SIGHT, MNM IN HIS PATH AS HERE COMES BOBBY LASHLEY!!

Michael Cole: BOBBY LASHLEY COMING TO THE AID OF ROB VAN DAM AND REY MYSTERIO!! BOBBY LASHLEY BACK ON FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN AND HE’S COMIN’ FOR JBL!!

Tazz: Oh baby, to borrow a line from Monday nights, business is about to pick up!!

Lashley bursts into the ring and Joey Mercury swings for him but Lashley blocks it and he SMASHES Mercury with a big right hand. Nitro’s next, charging in at the big man but LASHLEY TOSSES HIM UP IN THE AIR WITH A BIG BACK BODY DROP BEFORE JBL CONNECTS WITH A RIGHT HAND!! The numbers game now catching up with Lashley as JBL strikes with right hands, clubbing the back of the ‘Real Deal’, Lashley dropping to one knee as JBL now brings him to his feet again, Irish whip, Lashley rebounds and SPEARS THE HELL OUTTA BRADSHAW!! JBL CUT IN HALF BY A DEVASTATING SPEAR FROM BOBBY LASHLEY!!

Michael Cole: WOW!! The impact, the speed, the power of Bobby Lashley!! MNM stopped in their tracks tonight and it would appear as though Lashley has accepted JBL’s challenge for No Mercy!! First Blood, JBL claimed it could break Lashley’s career but is JBL the one who has bitten off more than he can chew?!

Tazz: Bobby Lashley looks all FIRED UP!! You may be onto somethin’ there Cole. If Lashley is this focused, this intense, this motivated then I don’t think even in a match like that, JBL or anybody can stop this kid. Straight up dominance from Bobby Lashley tonight.

Both MNM and JBL are now down on the outside, Melina is attending to her boys with a scowl being delivered in the direction of the ‘Real Deal’ who stands tall inside the ring and helps both Rey Mytserio and Rob Van Dam to their feet, the high flying pair acknowledging Lashley’s help tonight with a nod of respect as B-Lash’s music plays in the background amidst a jubilant crowd. We fade out with Lashley snarling in the direction of JBL who looks right back at him with a look of almost horror, open mouthed at the power of his opponent come No Mercy.

Commercials​

We return and we’re taken to what appears to be a medical room where we see Teddy Long sitting and is being treated by one of the WWE Doctors. Long has an icepack on his neck as he sits on a medical bed and is clearly in a lot of discomfort following that earlier attack on him by John Cena. Long grimaces in pain a little as the doc asks him if he’s ok, to which Long responds aggressively with a ‘What does it look like?’ Long’s attention is then diverted as he suddenly looks up and we see Todd Grisham enter the scene, his glasses seemingly found, his look of unease however hasn’t.

Todd Grisham: Teddy I know I have only been here and will only be here for one night but I’ve already seen just how chaotic Smackdown has been. Following on from that my first question is, just what action will you take towards John Cena following his FU on you earlier this evening?

Long looks a little agitated by Grisham’s question.

Teddy Long: What the hell gives you the right to come on over to my show and criticse the way things go down playa?

Todd Grisham: I’m…I’m sorry Teddy, I was just calling it the way I see i…

Teddy Long: Well the way I see it is you better get to steppin’ and head back over to Raw before I get the job done for ya, ya feel me?

Grisham looks a tad unnerved by that comment.

Teddy Long: But as far as John Cena goes and what action will be taken, I know for a fact that Kurt Angle and Randy Orton are gonna head on down to that ring later tonight and I can pretty much guarantee John Cena’s gonna be headed their way too.

Decent pop for that, the crowd anticipating Cena taking it to Angle and Orton.

Teddy Long: Well let me tell ya, no matter how much I’m hurtin’ right now, I’m gonna be out there too and I promise that I WILL take action against John Cena, I WILL take action against Kurt Angle and I WILL take action against Randy Orton.

Another nice pop as Long gives a steely scowl in the way of Grisham.

Teddy Long: The inmate’s don’t run the asylum around here…I do and I’m gonna make sure the three of them all know it out there tonight.

We get a close up shot of a clearly furious Teddy Long, perhaps feeling the strain before we head back to ringside for some more action…

‘Do What I Want’​

And there’s a flutter of boys as out steps former United States Champion Orlando Jordan who is primed to take on the man he lost that championship to back at the Bash.

Michael Cole: Welcome back to the action and a chance for a small measure of revenge tonight for this man. Orlando Jordan lost to Matt Hardy back at the Bash, Hardy taking the United States Title from Jordan and JBL’s former Chief of Staff has found life tough going on Smackdown ever since.

Tazz: Orlando’s gotta get outta this rut and hey, what better way than by doin’ it tonight against the man he lost his championship to? Big chance for Orlando Jordan to get back to winnin’ ways tonight but he knows as well as anybody, it ain’t gonna be easy against Matt Hardy.

‘Live for the Moment’​

And it’s a big time pop that greets the music of the champion himself, the U.S Title holder Matt Hardy storms out, all guns blazing, a smirk on his face as he eyes up his former rival inside the ring.

Michael Cole: It’s certainly not because since coming to Friday Night Smackdown Matt Hardy has been on an incredible roll and since capturing that United States Title, his momentum has only increased. Hardy now looking as strong as he has ever done here in the WWE.

Tazz: No doubt about it. As a tag team guy we all knew what Matt Hardy was capable of but on his own we didn’t know if he could step up to that next level, right now I think he’s provin’ it to all the doubters despite that setback against Carlito last week.

Michael Cole: And Tazz we know Matt Hardy will defend his United States Title against the man who defeated him last week in Carlito but we heard from the champion earlier on tonight and he said he was gonna call Carlito out tonight. What do you believe Matt Hardy has in mind for the Apple Spitter?

Tazz: I ain’t got a clue Cole but I sure as hell know that I can’t wait to find out.

Match Four: Singles Match

Matt Hardy vs Orlando Jordan

Hardy removes the U.S title belt from around his waist handing it to the referee but as he does so he’s attacked from behind by Jordan!! Orlando not wasting anytime in taking it to his former rival, clearly a point to prove as OJ clubs Hardy with left and right hands, a furious onslaught from the former champion.

Jordan keeps on taking the fight to Hardy, not letting the champion have any room to breathe as he strikes fast and furiously in the corner, repeated left hands followed by vicious stomp after stomp to the mid section as Hardy slouches down in the corner. Jordan continues dishing out the punishment, including a ruthless strike to Hardy’s head, sending the champion down but Jordan drags him right back up again. Jordan grabs him by the back of the neck before tossing Hardy up and over the top, Hardy landing awkwardly on the outside as Jordan heads right after him.

Jordan looks to keep up the pace but as he goes to slam Hardy’s head off the announce table, Hardy blocks it!! The champion blocks it and instead SMASHES Jordan face first off the table!! A turning point for Hardy as he now assumes control and whips Jordan into the ring post!! Jordan immediately falls as the fans begin to drive the champion on, Hardy going right at Jordan and bringing him back into the ring.

Hardy now picks up the pace and Jordan seemingly has no way back. Determined right hands by Hardy before an Irish whip, boot to the gut on return and Hardy strikes with a big time vertical suplex!! Hardy then heads up high, he senses the end is near as Jordan lay helplessly on the mat and HARDY SCORES WITH A LEG DROP OFF THE TOP!! Beautiful move as the crowd goes wild, Hardy beginning to really feel it now. Hardy drags Jordan up, his former rival is lifeless, boot to the gut by Hardy, a roar to the crowd, TWIST OF FATE CONNECTING!! Cover by Hardy, one, two, three, the U.S Champ rolling.


Winner: Matt Hardy(6:15)


Michael Cole: Matt Hardy once again impressive and once again getting the better of Orlando Jordan!!

Tazz: An old rivalry renewed but the result ends up the same baby, Matt Hardy walkin’ out on top. Huge win for Hardy tonight and it don’t look like he’ gonna wait any longer to call out Carlito!!

Hardy has asked for a microphone and has received one, his hand having being raised by the officials as the U.S Champ smiles, the crowd on their feet after that performance.

Matt Hardy: Y’know ever since I came to Smackdown I’ve felt as though my career has just taken off. I’ve got a whole new confidence, I feel like no matter who I step inside this ring with I will walk out victorious.

Nice pop as Hardy nods his head.

Matt Hardy: And that says a whole lot because here on Friday nights there’s talent wherever you look back in that locker room, there’s competition whatever way you turn but y’know what? I thrive on that competition, I look forward to that competition because I wanna take on the best and I wanna BEAT…the best.

Again another nice pop as Hardy seems pretty pumped up tonight.

Matt Hardy: I wanna prove myself each and every night I step inside this ring. Prove myself to everybody in the back, prove myself to all you people, prove myself to the entire world that Matt Hardy is…for real. Which is why last week I heard somethin’ that…well that made me sit up and think about exactly that.

Hardy now scratches his chin, thinking for a moment.

Matt Hardy: With that in mind I’d like to call out the very man who spoke those words last week, the very man who, hey I hold my hands up, the very man who beat me right here in the middle of this ring last week. So Carlito, come on down to this ring so uh…we can have a little ‘talk’.

Hardy now waits for a moment, the crowd aren’t quite sure what to make of this with Hardy calling out his rival.

‘Cool’​

And his wait is a relatively short one as out steps the ‘Coolest’ superstar on Friday nights, dressed in a Caribbean shirt and tossing an apple up and down, Lito slowly plods out onto the stage and takes his place atop of it, microphone in hand as his music dies down and Hardy now begins to smirk a touch.

Carlito: What’s dis about Matt? Carlito’s a busy man, he’s not got a lotta time for guys like ju, well…unless it involves kickin’ jur ass again, Carlito’s got a LOT of time for dat.

Lito now begins smiling with a few boos floating around for that as Hardy puts his head down chuckling.

Matt Hardy: I bet you have and y’know what? That’s exactly what I wanted to talk to you about cos there was somethin’ you said last week Carlito tha…

Carlito: Something Carlito said? Are…are ju sure? Carlito thought all you’d remember from last week was what Carlito did and das beat ju one, two, three in da middle of dat ring!!

Lito is grinning ear to ear now as Hardy looks to be getting frustrated this time around, the smile and chuckling gone.

Matt Hardy: How did I guess you’d bring that up? Well congratulations Carlito, I hold my hands up, you beat me last week but what was it you said last week about beatin’ me?

Lito looks a little confused, having a think to himself.

Matt Hardy: I think the exact words were that you know that nine times outta ten you can beat me, hell I think you mighta even claimed you could beat me ninety nine times outta a hundred.

Carlito: Das exactly what ju heard!! Carlito knows for a FACT he could beat ju day in, day out. Summerslam? Dat was just a fluke and Matt ju know it too. All dis talk about ju thriving on competition, ju don’t mean dat, it’s all just ju sucking up to these stupid fans like ju always do.

Pretty strong heat for that as Hardy mouths something away from the microphone.

Carlito: Don’t boo Carlito, Carlito’s just stating da facts. Matt Hardy’s never been anything more than talk. Ju should be embarrassed having him as United States Champion, ju should wanna see a REAL champion, ju should wanna see Carlito holding dat title, somebody who can actually back up their words.

Matt Hardy: Somebody who can back up their words? Well…how bout you do exactly that? I wanna hold you to that Carlito and I wanna hold you to what you said last week too. So whadda ya say? Next week, Matt Hardy versus Carlito for the United States Championship…in match number one…of a Best of Five series?

BIG TIME Pop for that challenge as Carlito looks a little unsure how to respond.

Matt Hardy: Nine times outta ten, ninety nine times outta a hundred, all you gotta do Carlito is three outta five. What’s it gonna be?

Hardy has a smug look about him, sensing that Carlito may try and wriggle out of this, Hardy having thrown down the gauntlet. Carlito takes a deep breath before responding.

Carlito: Best of Five series…

Lito paces around the top of the stage, thinking to himself.

Carlito: Ju wanna let Carlito beat ju not just once, not just twice but three times? Ju know what Matt? Ju gotta deal and when Carlito takes dat title from ju, ju won’t have anybody to blame but jurself and all these people will finally see ju for da fraud ju really are.

More heat for the Apple Spitter there but he doesn’t seem the least bit phased.

Matt Hardy: Is that right? Well I guarantee you whether it takes three, four or the whole five matches, at the end of it all I won’t be called a fraud, I won’t be blaming anybody, all I’m gonna be... is standing here in the middle of this ring STILL United States Champion while you? You’ll have proved to everybody what they already know, what I already know and that’s for all the talk, for all the hype, you just can’t back it up.

Strong pop for Hardy there, Lito rolling his eyes and tossing his apple.

Matt Hardy: Carlito this may be a best of five series but believe me you better bring everything you got to throw at me…cos I don’t plan on this goin’ distance. I’ll see ya next week and we’ll all see… what you’ve really got.

And with that Hardy drops the microphone, his music hitting as the U.S Champion panders to the crowd, the Texas faithful getting right behind him as Lito simply smiles before taking a bite of his apple, nodding his head as Hardy mouths some more words at his rival.

Michael Cole: Wow. A huge challenge laid down tonight from the United States Champion. Right here next week, Matt Hardy one on one with Carlito in the first match of a Best of Five series!!

Tazz: Gonna be off the charts Cole, possibly five matchups between these two and they’ve both got a lot to prove, both done a lotta talkin’. Five matches? That should well settle it once and for all. Bring on next week baby, Hardy and Carlito, I can’t freakin’ wait!!

Commercials​

Returning back off the break we head backstage where we see a slightly sore duo of Joey Mercury and Johnny Nitro who are accompanied as ever by Melina, huffing and puffing after being on the receiving end of Bobby Lashley’s physical force tonight. Melina then stops in her tracks, Mercury and Nitro continuing on before realising that their third party has stopped behind them as they spin around and lock eyes.

Johnny Nitro: What’s up? We got what we wanted tonight, sure we took a hit from Lashley but we sent a message to Van Dam and Mysterio, that’s all that matters.

Melina: Look I don’t…I don’t care about what happened with Lashley. What happened with Rob and Rey tonight, yeah I agree we did send a message but you’re wrong with ‘that’s all that matters’. What matters right now is us finding more money because we’ve still not heard a response Johnny and it’s…it’s starting to get to me.

Melina has her hands on her head, clearly frustrated, clearly getting a little stressed at seemingly being unable to find more money for their ‘mystery man’.

Joey Mercury: Listen you just gotta relax alright? We got plenty of time until No Mercy and that means we got plenty of time to find that extra money.

Mercury trying to diffuse the situation does far from it…

Melina: Relax? Relax, are you kidding me?! How am I supposed to relax Joey? Huh? Do you…do you not even care? Do neither of you care?

Johnny Nitro: It’s not like that Meli…

Melina: Well tell me Johnny, what is it like? You two guys are the ones holding those championships, they aren’t around my waist, they’re yours, why should I be the only one who cares? Why should I be bothering to even help you if you don’t even wanna stay on top?

Wow, this is certainly a whole different side to Melina.

Joey Mercury: Woah, calm down. We do care, we care a whole lot more than you seem to believe but you just gotta relax, you gotta be patient and we promise, we’ll find that money from somewhere and come No Mercy he will not…let us down.

Melina takes a deep breath as Nitro puts his hand on her arm to comfort her, closing her eyes to take a second as the Tag Champs stand by her side.

Melina: You…you’re right. I’m sorry, I overreacted, it’s just…this whole thing’s getting to me and I think the quicker we can figure this, the whole lot easier No Mercy is gonna be for the two of you.

Mercury and Nitro both nod in agreement before a final word.

Johnny Nitro: We promise, you got nothin’ to worry about.

And with that we get a final shot of a clearly still worried Melina who looks up to the heavens before we head back to ringside.

‘Medal’​

And there’s resounding levels of heat as out steps the ‘Wrestling Machine’, Kurt Angle with a look of pure focus and intensity, not taking in any of the fans as he walks hurriedly down towards the ring, he and Randy Orton set to make an address tonight. Angle reaches the bottom of the ramp before smirking as we then hear…

‘Burn in my Light’​

Once more there’s a resounding amount of boos as slowly out steps the Legend Killer himself, a more methodical pace as Randy Orton heads down to join Kurt Angle, the two men meeting at the bottom of the ramp and giving one another a glare before entering the ring, the crowd certainly invested in booing these two following what they did last week. Orton and Angle both grab a microphone with Orton’s music dying down and them taking centre stage in the ring.


Randy Orton: Ever since we stepped foot in this arena tonight we’ve heard a lot of talk, we’ve heard a lot of rumours, we’ve heard…a lot of crap.

Orton shakes his head to more boos.

Randy Orton: We’ve heard people claiming what we did last week was wrong. Wrong? Are you kidding me? Here’s something that’s wrong. Neither of us getting a shot at the WWE Title, THAT is wrong.

Orton’s intensity levels rise, getting a little worked up.

Randy Orton: What we did last week was something that needed to happen. It needed to happen so Teddy Long could at long last realise just what’s standing in front of him and so he could FINALLY… stop taking us for granted.

More boos as Angle now steps forward.

Kurt Angle: But rumour has it, Teddy Long’s got other ideas. Rumour has it, instead of giving us the title opportunites we deserve, Teddy Long…is gonna punish us?

Decent pop for that, Angle questioning it.

Kurt Angle: Teddy Long is gonna punish us for doing the exact same thing as he is? Cos that’s all we did last week. Teddy Long is denying us the opportunity we want, the opportunity we deserve. So last week all we did…was return the favour. He wants John Cena versus The Undertaker to be the headline, he wants John Cena versus The Undertaker as his main event, he wants it just to please all of you people. Well guess what? If we don’t get what we want, then he doesn’t get what he wants.

The heat returns for this as we see Orton nod in agreement.

Kurt Angle: I don’t care what you people think about it, that’s the way this is gonna work and Teddy Long needs to get his head around it real quick or else what you all saw last week will be NOTHING compared to what we do next.

Angle begins to smirk.

Kurt Angle: And as much as you might wanna believe it, as much as guys like John Cena and The Undertaker wanna believe it, they can’t stop it, nobody…can stop it.

Randy Orton: And y’know half the problem is them thinking they can, the other half… is Teddy Long thinking they can. He thinks that allowing John Cena to take us on, allowing The Undertaker to take us on will really stop us, will really teach us a lesson but that just shows you how stupid Teddy Long really is.

Orton pauses for a moment before continuing.

Randy Orton: I’ve already beaten The Undertaker twice, Kurt should have beaten John Cena, he would’ve beaten him were it not for one of Teddy Long’s officials, how convenient is that huh? Kurt should be standing here tonight as WWE Champion while I should be standing here as his challenger.

Big time heat for this as Orton nods, Angle yelling ‘that’s a fact’.

Randy Orton: But we get put aside, we get put to the back of the line and why?

Kurt Angle: Because we aren’t Teddy Long guys that’s why and if you wanna get an opportunity around here, if you wanna win championships around here, it doesn’t come down to whether you deserve it or not, it comes down to whether you’re a suck up to that JOKE of a General Manager.

Angle shakes his head in disgust, Orton placing his head down in frustration.

Kurt Angle: Think about it. MNM have beaten Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio THREE times and yet at No Mercy they’ve gotta defend their titles against them in a Ladder match!! Why??? What have they done to deserve a shot? Oh!! Oh that’s right!! They’re Teddy Long guys, that’s why they get that shot.

Angle’s cynicism isn’t greeted well by the Texas faithful.

Kurt Angle: And Randy said it himself, he’s beaten The Undertaker TWICE since Wrestlemania? Does he get a title match? No, no he doesn’t and why? Because he’s not a Teddy Long guy.

The crowd really aren’t buying into this ‘Teddy Long guy’ routine.

Kurt Angle: And me? Well, I’m pretty sure you all know by now I am FAR FROM a Teddy Long guy which is why I don’t get the rematch I deserve, which is why I don’t get the rematch I earned and DAMN IT, THAT’S NOT FAIR!! THAT’S NOT RIGHT!!

Angle’s losing it now, the crowd booing the Wrestling Machine’s actions also.

Randy Orton: It’s not fair, it’s not right and it’s happening time and time again but now? Now we’re through with it, we are done with it and tonight…tonight we came out here not just to set the record straight, we came here…to do something else about it.

Now the interest has risen as Orton stares coldly into the crowd.

Randy Orton: Unless…unless Teddy Long comes out here right now and gives us what we want, gives us what we deserve, then once again we’re gonna take matters into our own hands. So Teddy…what’s it gonna be?

Orton and Angle now wait patiently, Angle is ready and raring to go, gritting his teeth, desperate to see Long appear whilst Orton is a little calmer, arms folded as he waits to see what’s in store for them…

‘My Time is Now’​

But Orton and Angle are NOT best pleased to hear the music of the WWE Champion as out steps the WWE Champion John Cena and he appears to NOT be in any mood for the duo’s games tonight. Cena has a mic and stands on top of the stage, not all action just yet from the Doctor of Thuganomics.

John Cena: Take matters into your own hands, get what you want, get what you deserve. Well that mighta been your plan last week, might be your plan tonight, may well be your plan in the future but I got news for you… I’m gonn’ take matters into my own hands, I’m gonn’ get what I want and I’m gonn’ get what I deserve too and y’know what? I ain’t gonn’ wait a second longer to get it.

And with that Cena slams down his microphone, removes his shirt, tossing it into the crowd who are electric. We then see Angle and Orton bracing themselves inside the ring for Cena to come and get him some. Cena then looks at the duo one more time, a look of real intensity before CENA SPRINTS DOWN THE RAMP AND HEADS INTO THE RING, READY TO TAKE THE FIGHT TO BOTH MEN!!

Michael Cole: Here comes John Cena!! The fight is on here in Texas!! John Cena getting comin’ for payback on Kurt Angle and Randy Orton!!

Tazz: I don’t know about you Cole but I think Cena’s bitten off more than he can chew right here!!

Cena has stormed the ring and is dishing out right hands to Orton, right hands to Angle as Cena looks to seize advantage despite the numbers game!! Orton comes charging but Cena with a clothesline takes him down!! Cena lets out a roar BUT ANGLE CLUBS HIM WITH A RIGHT HAND!! Angle now pounces as Orton gets to his feet and it’s a two on one assault now, the one man advantage playing in these two predators’ hands.

Michael Cole: Angle and Orton taking full advantage of the two on one!! John Cena in a whole world of trouble here, the champion may have wished he’d thought twice before heading after these two men!!

Tazz: Cena’s got his issues wit’ these two but goin’ it alone ain’t always the easiest way to do it and he may pay the price tonight.

Angle and Orton are now hammering Cena who is tied up in the corner, kicks from Orton, kicks from Angle, a real venom, a real aggression in both men here with Orton now clubbing Cena with a closed fist, real impact from the Legend Killer as Angle has dropped out of the ring and he’s headed towards the announce booth…where he grabs a STEEL CHAIR!!

Michael Cole: Ah no, come on Kurt, it doesn’t need to be this way. You’ve made your point, this isn’t gonna make things better for Angle or Orton!!

Tazz: It might not make things better but in these two guys minds, it can’t get any worse.

Angle enters the ring again, Orton is choking Cena in the corner, an elbow lodged into Cena’s throat before Orton lets go and Cena drops to the mat, perhaps even passed out with Orton suffocating the champion there. Angle then yells ‘Get ‘im up’ and Orton obliges, the crowd are going crazy in giving these two men heat as Angle yells out ‘ONE LAST CHANCE TEDDY, THIS IS YOUR DOING!!’ Angle waits a matter of seconds, the steel chair held back high…

‘GONG’​

AND THE ROOF COMES OFF THE ARENA AS THE LIGHTS GO OUT!!....... THEY COME BACK ON AND THE UNDERTAKER IS IN THE RING!! ANGLE AND ORTON LOOK PETRIFIED AS ANGLE SWINGS THE CHAIR AT TAKER BUT TAKER SMACKS ANGLE WITH A BIG BOOT THAT SENDS HIM FLYING!! ORTON COMES AT HIM TOO BUT TAKER GRABS HIM BY THE THROAT!! CHOKESLAM TO ORTON!! NO!! ORTON ROLLS DOWN THE BACK AND GETS THE HELL OUT OF THE RING, DRAGGING ANGLE WITH HIM TOO AS THESE TWO GET OUT OF DODGE BIG TIME TONIGHT!!

Michael Cole: The Undertaker getting payback here tonight!! Angle and Orton ruined his main event with John Cena, they ruined his chance at the WWE Title and that is NOT gonna sit well with the Phenom!!

Tazz: If I were Kurt, if I were Randy I’d be thankin’ god I got the hell outta there tonight!! Just look at The Undertaker, he came here tonight and here came here to hunt these two down!! They may’ve escaped tonight but I gotta feelin’ the Deadman ain’t done wit’ these two.

Indeed Taker is snarling as Angle and Orton back up the ramp, relieved that they escaped the Deadman somewhat here tonight but at the same time fearful of what they did and almost did receive. We then see John Cena getting to his knees, looking up at Taker and realising that the Deadman may’ve done him a huge favour here tonight. Taker then looks back, recognising that Cena is to his feet as he gives him daggers before staring right back at the cowering duo of Angle and Orton.

‘MacMilitant’​

But there’s sudden intrigue as the music of the Smackdown General Manager hits and out steps Teddy Long, very gingerly it must be said as he slowly steps out, clearly feeling the effects of John Cena’s attack on him earlier as he clutches his neck.

Teddy Long: Hold on just a second there, I ain’t done here tonight and I ain’t done when it comes to the four of you.

Angle and Orton have turned round and Orton yells ‘This better be our title shot Teddy’ as Long looks at the duo.

Teddy Long: Now the two of you are my main priority tonight, after what ya did last week you’re lucky security even let ya into the buildin’.

Angle begins to smirk, Orton shaking his head.

Teddy Long: But you ain’t gonna get away wit’ what you did last week and that goes for what you did tonight too John. I understand you were angry playa, I understand you were frustrated but that ain’t give you the right to put ya hands on me.

Cena nods his head, perhaps now knowing what he did was wrong.

Teddy Long: So the three o’ you will all face ya punishments BUT…that ain’t all ya gonna face. I can’t let what happened last week happen again and having said that I can’t let this happen again either. Everywhere ya turn right now there’s chaos and I can’t let this thing spiral outta control anymore or else it’s gonn’ start affectin’ my job. Which is why at No Mercy I’m gonna give ya what ya want.

Angle and Orton now start smiling, Cena’s interest picking up as Taker still looks on menacingly.

Teddy Long: Now lemme assure ya, I am not givin’ in to anybody, I’m not crackin’ under the pressure, I’m simply doin’ what’s right for this show to get back on track, ya understand? Which is why at No Mercy it’s goin’ to be John Cena defending the WWE Championship against…Kurt Angle.

Strong boos as Angle lets out a roar in delight, Long shaking his head, he clearly doesn't want to allow this.

Teddy Long: AND…Randy Orton.

More big time heat as Orton clenches his fists, pumping them slightly as he’s clearly pleased he’s getting his title opportunity.

Teddy Long: AND THE UNDERTAKER!!

MASSIVE POP!! The Deadman nods his head as Orton throws his arms up in the air, yelling ‘NO’ whilst Angle stands hands on hips, biting his bottom lip as he shakes his head in disbelief.

Teddy Long: And that match is goin’ to be a Fatal 4 Way ELIMINATION MATCH!!

Another huge pop as we see John Cena smirking, looking around the arena, clearl as excited as them before he locks eyes with the Deadman, tension evident. We then see a shot of Angle and Orton who look at one another almost as if to say ‘How did we know that was coming?’

Teddy Long: So you got what ya wanted, all four of ya are gonna get to settle things come No Mercy which means this…this all stops and it stops right now. As for last week, as for ya punishment, well why don’t we start wit’ you John?

The camera shifts to Cena who nods on, listening.

Teddy Long: John, whether ya like it or not, you cannot put ya hands on ya boss playa so I’m sorry to say it but I am hereby suspending you…for one week… without pay.

Cena actually laughs, shaking his head, perhaps in disbelief, perhaps in accepting that’s what he deserved as we see Angle and Orton laughing at one another as there’s big time boos for that statement.

Teddy Long: Which means next week you will not be needed and if ya do decide to show up? Let’s just say that WWE Championship match becomes a Triple Threat, ya understand?

Cena seems to mouth ‘absolutely’.

Teddy Long: Kurt, Randy I don’t know why the two o’ you are laughin’. I ain’t gonna suspend the two of ya, that’d be too easy and to be honest, I don’t think either of ya would even give a damn. What I am gonna do is I am goin’ to fine each of you……ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS!!

WOW. The crowd goes wild as Orton and Angle go absolutely apeshit and they start to head up the ramp, they’ve got Teddy Long in their sights!! The two men get in Long’s face with Long not budging, not backing down here.

Teddy Long: Don’t even think about it playas because that ain’t all I got in mind for the two of you. Ya been fined but don’t forget you still got ya title shot and ya lucky to have it, believe that. BUT…don’t go thinkin’ you can still do what you want, still call the shots around here and just get handed things because that ain’t how it’s gonna be anymore. You on ya last chance because if EITHER of you two get involved in anything like last week or if either of you get involved in any unsanctioned physical confrontations like tonight, between now and No Mercy, be it with The Undertaker, with John Cena, with ANYBODY… then you will LOSE your title shot and you WILL…be FIRED!!

An INCREDIBLE POP as Angle simply looks down at the floor, Orton staring at Long with a cold look in his eyes. Long’s music then hits and the GM departs having laid down the law tonight for all to see.

Michael Cole: Teddy Long stamping his authority here tonight with some HUGE announcements!! But at the same time, has Teddy Long began to show he's cracking? Giving in to his superstars demands as we now know it'll be John Cena defending his WWE Championship at No Mercy against Kurt Angle, against Randy Orton and against THE UNDERTAKER in a Fatal 4 Way Elimination match!!

Tazz: Absolutely blockbuster Cole. Angle and Orton getting what they want but I don’t think it’s in the fashion they’d hoped for.

Michael Cole: And what about the punishments for Cena, for Angle, for Orton? John Cena suspended for one week without pay while Kurt Angle and Randy Orton have…well they have it all to lose!!

Tazz: They’ve already lost a hundred thousand dollars each Cole but losin’ their title shots too?!? I don’t think they’re that stupid, I think Angle and Orton will have a plan in mind and I think Cena and the Phenom are gonna have to get ‘emselves one too, this is gonna be awesome Cole.

We close the show with Angle and Orton spinning round to lock eyes with the Deadman and the WWE Champion, Angle looking a little concerned while Orton scratches his head as the crowd then cheers wildly as we see The Undertaker deliver a symbolic message of a thumb across the throat while John Cena simply stands, perched on the ropes as he points at the duo mouthing ‘No mercy, your time is up’. Angle and Orton look at one another one last time before we finish with the Phenom and the Doctor of Thuganomics doing likewise, the tension having risen once more tonight between these four.


Date: 9th October 2005

Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas

Current Card:

WWE Championship: Fatal 4 Way Elimination Match
John Cena(c) vs Kurt Angle vs Randy Orton vs The Undertaker

WWE Tag Team Championships: Ladder Match
MNM(c) vs Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio

WWE Cruiserweight Championship:
Gregory Helms(c) w/Chavo Guerrero vs Paul London w/Brian Kendrick

First Blood Match:
John Bradshaw Layfield vs Bobby Lashley​
 
#227 ·
WWE Unforgiven Preview

Date: 18th September 2005

Location: Ford Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma





World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match

Batista© vs Kane

At Summerslam these two fierce rivals squared off in a highly tense, highly emotional confrontation that saw Shawn Michaels as the Special Guest Referee and also as a determining factor in the champion retaining his title. This Sunday however there will be no third party. It is simply one on one, man to man, Animal versus Monster as these two bitter rivals enter inside a fifteen foot high Steel Cage!!

The finish to their Summerslam encounter was controversial as the impact of the Heartbreak Kid was evident and with that obvious to everybody, Kane felt entitled to a rematch and Batista wasn’t gonna wait long to hand it to him. The Big Red Machine has made taking the Animal down and taking his title with it his only focus in recent weeks and this rivalry has got extremely heated, extremely fast. Before Summerslam we witnessed first hand just what these two were capable of as Kane sickeningly Chokeslammed the Animal off the stage, breaking Batista’s ribs but since Summerslam…things have only escalated.

We’ve seen Batista Spear Kane off the stage, we’ve seen Kane Chokeslam Batista through the announce table, we’ve witnessed these two fight their way through the crowd, fight their way across the entire arena and this past Monday night on Raw we saw a devastating Batistabomb off the stage that left both men torn apart. With nothing able to contain these two men, the question now lies, will a Steel Cage even be enough? With nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, two men trapped inside the confines of an unforgiving Steel Cage, just what brutality will these two dish out as they do battle for the richest prize in the game? One thing’s for sure, carnage awaits in Oklahoma City.


Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)


The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels

Recent months have proved to be the toughest of Shawn Michaels career and this Sunday, it doesn’t get any easier. The Heartbreak Kid has been under the control of Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff since back at Vengeance and Bischoff is intent that Unforgiven be Michaels last day in the sun.

Summerslam saw the Showstopper defy Eric Bischoff’s orders when he counted Kane down, allowing Batista to retain the World Title and unsurprisingly it did not sit well with the General Manager. The night after Summerslam saw Bischoff vow that Michaels would regret ever crossing the boss and Bischoff wasn’t wrong. Michaels took on Kane in the main event only to be heinously ambushed by the dangerous Arabian Entity who would leave Michaels a broken and bloody mess. We learned that the Entity were in fact in this for themselves with their leader Muhammad Hassan claiming to have seen and heard enough from Michaels and his ‘faith’. What followed was a scathing verbal assault on America and the treatment of Arab Americans in this country with Hassan claiming that it caused him to lose all hope, all belief, all his faith and that he was gonna do to Michaels what this country had done to him.

Monday night on Raw saw one of the most vile and brutal assaults in WWE history as the Entity laid waste to Michaels, leaving him unconscious and fallen in a pool of his own blood. With a mountain to climb already this Sunday night, will Michaels even be in a position to defend himself? With Bischoff and the Entity fighting the cause together, the goal is simple Sunday night, take Shawn Michaels faith…and take Shawn Michaels career. With the numbers game against the Heartbreak Kid, with the wounds far from healed, is there anything Shawn Michaels can do to prevent the worst from happening this Sunday night? Will the Entity hit the jackpot? Will the boss get his wish? Or will the Showstopper pull off the impossible?


Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:

Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho


Sunday night will see three of Canada’s finest do battle for the chance at a World Title opportunity, something which all three men believe they deserve but only ONE will walk out victorious and there is no doubting the pressure is well and truly on.

Christian scored the biggest victory of his career back at Summerslam when he shocked the world in defeating Ric Flair and ending the legendary career of the Nature Boy. With Flair beaten and now out of sight, Captain Charisma believed he was next in line for a title opportunity but he was not the only one. Edge also walked out victorious at Summerslam, though it wasn’t without the helping hand of his Money in the Bank briefcase as he clocked Chris Jericho with it to knock Y2J off and end his title aspirations…or so he thought. Jericho would take issue with what went down and claimed if Edge was gonna get the World Title shot, so was he, claiming that had it not been for Edge’s briefcase, he’d be the one holding Money in the Bank. With all three men having extremely viable reasons to a title shot, Eric Bischoff settled it, all three men competing at Unforgiven with that World Title shot up for grabs, something none of the three feel they can miss out on.

Chris Jericho was the first ever Undisputed Champion but since then Y2J has failed to taste the gold, Edge and Christian claim this is Jericho’s last chance to reach the top of the mountain again, will Jericho rise to the challenge and take it? Christian has never held a World Title, he’s never even had an opportunity but Christian claims he’s a new man, a changed man and that the win over Flair at Summerslam is a new beginning, will he prove just that? Or will Captain Charisma fall at the final hurdle? Edge is the only man who knows this isn’t his last chance. The Rated R Superstar already has a guaranteed title opportunity whenever he wants, right the way up until Wrestlemania but he claims that to be the ace up his sleeve, his back up call and that just because he holds that contract, it doesn’t mean he should miss out on what he deserves. Will it be Mr.MITB who earns himself a double chance or will Money in the Bank prove to be his final hope?


WWE Intercontinental Championship:

Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal

It was jubilation for Shelton Benjamin at Summerslam when he finally toppled his long time rival Muhammad Hassan to claim back the Intercontinental Championship but that jubilation has been short lived and come Unforgiven Benjamin’s reign could come to a damning halt as he goes toe to toe with a man who is on the roll of his career, Mark Jindrak.

Jindrak has been straight up dominant since aligning with the wily William Regal and the combination of Regal’s nous alongside Jindrak’s power have been mighty effective, seeing the ‘Protégé’ knock off Big Show at Summerslam in impressive style. Benjamin meanwhile may be holding the Intercontinental Title but it’s not been all plain sailing for Benjamin, most notably in his relationship with tag team partner, Charlie Haas. Haas has stood by his partner, despite Benjamin’s reluctance to go after the Tag Team Titles, instead focusing on his singles career, something that Haas hasn’t been fond of but has accepted, although not without tension arising. Haas has continued to air his grievances to Benjamin and the champion has vowed to bring their Tag Team back to the forefront of his mind soon enough but the question is, how long will Charlie Haas wait?

Always one to try and cause unrest, William Regal has already fiddled in the World’s Greatest Tag Team’s division. This past Monday on Raw saw Regal confront Haas backstage, telling Haas that if he wants his partner back, he’s gonna have to see him lose the Intercontinental Title. Regal challenged Haas to make an impact of his own and to ‘think about it’. Haas thought about it for all of a few seconds, not taking kindly to Regal’s claims and vowing he would be in his partner’s corner this Sunday and he would see him victorious. Will Haas really have his partner’s back Sunday night? Or will the growing friction between the two only further? And is this the night Mark Jindrak’s roll leads him to championship gold? So many questions for this one, so few answers.


World Tag Team Championships:

Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection


Ken Doane and Nick Nemeth have made quite the impact since debuting on Monday Night Raw and at Summerslam they went one better as they became number one contenders to the World Tag Team Titles. This Sunday night the young ‘Perfectionists’ get their opportunity but it will not come easy as they take on the veteran champions, the Dudley Boyz!!

The Dudleyz returned to the WWE at Backlash and instantly captured the Tag Team Titles, going on to defend them successfully against the Basham Brothers and Entity members, Sonjay Dutt and Daivari but it’s a whole different ball game this Sunday night as they take on two men who are unknown when it comes to title matches. Doane and Nemeth have certainly impressed thus far but when the pressure’s on and the titles are up for grabs, will the PTP be able to step up and take them? Doane and Nemeth claim that the Dudleyz days are done, however Bubba and D-Von simply believe the Perfectionists are covering up their biggest fear…failure.

There is however, a third party involved in this and that third party are Doug and Danny Basham. The Bashams believe that the title opportunity should be theirs and have continued to challenge Doane and Nemeth to make this a Triple Threat match, something the Perfectionists have refused. With Doane and Nemeth’s continued refusals, the Bashams have vowed to take matters into their own hands this Sunday night by promising they’ll be in Oklahoma and they will ‘see’ the Perfectionists there. What have the Bashams got in mind? Are Doane and Nemeth’s title hopes not just under threat from the champions but from the outside also? Or will it simply all be mind games from the former Cabinet members and the platform is indeed provided for perfection?


Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:

Mr Kennedy vs ?


He is arrogant, he is talented and he is undefeated, he is Mr.Kennedy and this Sunday night he is hell bent on finally facing a challenge.

Since debuting on Monday Night Raw, Kennedy has demanded competition but so far he’s faced anything but that. Kennedy claims to be the ‘Game Changer’ Raw needs, the ‘Game Changer’ the WWE needs and that he wants to face and he wants to beat the very best they have to offer. Raw’s General Manager Eric Bischoff has yet to give Kennedy what he wants, instead all Kennedy has faced have been in his eyes, joke acts with the particular thorn in his side being the every colourful, Eugene.

Eugene has tried his hand at being several different superstars, including Hulk Hogan, Bret Hart and Stone Cold Steve Austin, yet no matter what persona he’s failed to find a way to win. Will Eugene again be the man to step up to Kennedy at Unforgiven? Will it possibly be a fresh face that bursts onto the scene to accept the challenge? The main question for Kennedy is, will the competition he craves step up to the plate?


Women’s Championship:

Victoria© vs Lita


The dominant path of destruction Victoria has been on will look to continue this Sunday night as Lita at long last gets her chance at not just the Women’s Championship but also at retribution.

This match was all set for Summerslam, Victoria having taken out Trish Stratus, breaking the blonde beauty’s ankle, Lita stepped up to the devilish diva and laid claim to a title shot, one which she was granted. However, Victoria showed her sadistic side once again, ambushing Lita backstage before launching a sickening assault on Lita’s ankle, slamming a door against it, looking to do to her exactly what she did to Trish Stratus. She succeeded as the title match was cancelled and we learned that Lita suffered a sprained ankle ruling her out of action. Trouble for Victoria was, that action would only be a matter of weeks rather than months as Lita returned, shocking the champion and she returned with a vengeance, Victoria’s title in her sights.

This Sunday Lita gets her long awaited chance. Will the Daredevil diva once again take home the gold and reign supreme? Or will Victoria once again prove why she’s the most dominant diva in not just the WWE right now, but the world?


Prediction Template:

World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match
Batista© vs Kane

Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)
The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels

Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:
Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho

WWE Intercontinental Championship:
Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal

World Tag Team Championships:
Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection

Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:
Mr.Kennedy vs?

WWE Women’s Championship:
Victoria© vs Lita

Bonus Questions:


1) Predict the match order
2) What will be the longest match?
3) What will be the shortest match?
4) Who will take the pinfall or submission in the Triple Threat match?
5) Who will be the first man eliminated, if any, in the Handicap match?
6) Will there be any blood shed, if so, which match?
7) Who will answer Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge
?​
 
#230 ·
Prediction Template:

7.World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match
Batista© vs Kane

I feel that if you were gonna give the title to Kane it would have happened at SummerSlam with some kind of involvement from Michaels. Then you would have had a legitamat excuse for Batista losing. But given the wild brawls in the build up, and the fact we're now inside a steel cage, I'm going for a Batista win to bring this feud to a decisive end.

6.Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)
The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels

Hard one to choose here. At various time during the build, you've made the Entity look very strong and then at other times pretty weak. I'll go for The Arabian Entity to win this one, but it could really go either way.

5.Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:
Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho

It has to be Christian. Just has to be.

1.WWE Intercontinental Championship:
Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal

I don't see Shelton losing the title yet, as I'm sure you'll be wanting Charlie Haas involved in that somehow. But it's just too early for a split between Haas and Benji right now. So Shelton Benjamin to retain the title here.

2.World Tag Team Championships:
Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection

You seem pretty high on the newcomers, so I'm going for a Platform win here. I just think that moving forward there'll be more options for stories with those guys as champs. Plus, Dudley's are kinda getting a bit stale at this point. New champs to freshen up the division, plz.

3.Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:
Mr.Kennedy vs?

I'm taking Kennedy to win here.

4.WWE Women’s Championship:
Victoria© vs Lita

I'll go for Victoria to retain here. It'll be close, and I can see there being some shenanigans, but Victoria will be champ when it's over.

Bonus Questions:

1) Predict the match order Yip.
2) What will be the longest match? Batista/Kane
3) What will be the shortest match? Victoria/Lita
4) Who will take the pinfall or submission in the Triple Threat match? Ooh... Jericho I think.
5) Who will be the first man eliminated, if any, in the Handicap match? Davairi
6) Will there be any blood shed, if so, which match? Could see Shawn Michaels bleeding during his match.
7) Who will answer Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge?
Goldust I guess.
 
#233 ·
Prediction Template:

7. World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match
Batista© vs Kane

5. Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)
The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels

3. Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:
Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho

1. WWE Intercontinental Championship:
Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal

2. World Tag Team Championships:
Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection

4. Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:
Mr.Kennedy vs?

6. WWE Women’s Championship:
Victoria© vs Lita

Bonus Questions:

1) Predict the match order Done.
2) What will be the longest match? Triple Threat
3) What will be the shortest match? Women's Title
4) Who will take the pinfall or submission in the Triple Threat match? Jericho
5) Who will be the first man eliminated, if any, in the Handicap match? Daivari
6) Will there be any blood shed, if so, which match? Handicap Match
7) Who will answer Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge? The Big Show

Gonna be a good one bro (Y)
 
#235 ·
Prediction Template:

7. World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match
Batista© vs Kane

6. Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)
The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels

4. Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:
Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho

2. WWE Intercontinental Championship:
Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal

1. World Tag Team Championships:
Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection

3. Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:
Mr.Kennedy vs ?

5. WWE Women’s Championship:
Victoria© vs Lita

Bonus Questions:


1) Predict the match order Done.
2) What will be the longest match? - WWE Title Match.
3) What will be the shortest match? - Womens Title Match.
4) Who will take the pinfall or submission in the Triple Threat match? - Chris Jericho
5) Who will be the first man eliminated, if any, in the Handicap match? - Sonjay Dutt
6) Will there be any blood shed, if so, which match? - WWE Title Match & Triple Threat Match.
7) Who will answer Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge - No idea.

This is looking really good. Can't wait to read it. The build for all these matches have been enjoyable. Definitely excited for CHRISTIAN to win and challenge for the title, finally! Unless you swerve us and Christian doesn't win :no: But anyway, will be reading man! (Y)
 
#236 ·
7. World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match
Batista© vs Kane


Kane's regained a bunch of momentum and character from this, but as many before me have said, Batista has so much left in the tank as WHC. Plus, a guy like Kane shouldn't be the one to derail the rising star that Batista was during the time. As a matter of fact, I honestly don't see Batista losing until probably 'Mania 22 with how much he has left. This should be one hell of a slugfest and a fun read to cap off a show that doesn't look like it'll have any technical masterpieces, but in the end, Batista keeps the gold.

Also, crazy cage spots plz.

4. Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)
The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels


You have Michaels as the corporate plaything down to a tee. There's a reason why this guy won you Feud of the Year, but I don't think it'll end yet. Michaels has way too much ahead of him, and though he may eliminate two or maybe even three members of the Entity, there's no way Bischoff's gonna let him off. Especially not with Survivor Series on the horizon. A big five-on-five duel between the two could set Michaels free and potentially put him on track to win the Rumble (and dethrone Batista...?) But that's for the potential future. For now, Michaels to put on a great fight/show as only his otherworldly determination can, but will fall short.

5. Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:
Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho


You've been pretty high on Christian in the last year, and as much as I think losing to Batista for the title may stunt his momentum a deal, I can still see you giving him the reigns here. Jericho would be fun to give it to, but not unnecessary, and Edge has that damn briefcase, so it's not do or die if he loses. Plus, this gives a chance for an Edge/Jericho blowoff come Series. So pet project Christian all the way.

1. WWE Intercontinental Championship:
Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal


Never been a fan of Jinny and Benjamin just got the strap and isn't dropping to anyone not named Charlie Haas, so I gotta go with the black guy here. I do admire what you've done with Jindrak, however, and he and Regal have been one of the more interesting things on each program, even if I'm not a big fan.

3. World Tag Team Championships:
Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection


I do tend to think this one is pretty obvious. These guys are ready, seeing as how they've been groomed for this for several months now.

6. Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:
Mr.Kennedy vs?


You're unbelievably high on Kennedy, which at this point in real time is kind of a breath of fresh air. When I first came to the section, he was everybody's favorite guy to push to the moon and now hardly anyone wants to touch the guy. iMac's Kennedy has cooled off while yours just keeps picking it up, and I'm not entirely sure at all who could be. Eugene or Goldust are obvious answers, but the hypotheses behind both CM Punk and Triple H are far too good to ignore. I almost do want to jump on Wolfy's bandwagon and say Punk, considering you do have a wide variety of great heels in the undercard, but your face half of the midcard is barren. So y'know what? I think I will say CM Punk, but Kennedy will still win...only by DQ.

2. WWE Women’s Championship:
Victoria© vs Lita


She's been through enough and warrants that gold, I think. But I'd be more than pleased with Victoria re-adding Lita to DAT HALL OF PAIN with my love for psycho characters and all...

Bonus Questions:

1) Predict the match order IT HAS BEEN DONE
2) What will be the longest match? Pull a Kingston/Black on Kennedy/Punk, will ya?
3) What will be the shortest match? DAT WOMEN'S MATCH
4) Who will take the pinfall or submission in the Triple Threat match? Jericho SHOULDN'T...but he will
5) Who will be the first man eliminated, if any, in the Handicap match? Khali for match flow purposes or Hassan for shock value...so Khali
6) Will there be any blood shed, if so, which match? The 4-on-1 almost surely will
7) Who will answer Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge? DAT PUNK

Kirby and I wish thee luck (Y)
 
#237 ·
News, Notes and Rumours

We are twenty four hours away from Unforgiven and there’s huge anticipation amongst the Raw superstars as well as the higher ups within the company about just how things are gonna pan out with the Arabian Entity/Shawn Michaels match catching everyone’s attention. The obvious outcome is that the Arabian Entity walk out victorious, however it is the manner in which that is being talked about the most. A lot of people are pulling for the Entity to look REALLY strong and not lose a single member during the match in a move that would no doubt emphasise their dominance. However, there is also a fear that Michaels not being able to eliminate any of the Entity will make him look weak, especially coming off the back of defeats at Wrestlemania, Backlash and Vengeance as well as failing to get the upper hand over Eric Bischoff. Expect Michaels to put up a fight but don’t be surprised to see the Entity look convincing.

The World Title showdown inside a Steel Cage will main event the show and will no doubt be an all out brawl between Batista and Kane. The feud between these two men has been well received and actually surprised a few people with just how good both men have looked. Of course the action in recent weeks, months even has been heavy hitting and with the use of a Steel Cage we won’t see anything less than that tomorrow night. Batista is expected to retain the gold, however a Kane victory has been discussed with management riding high on the Big Red Machine right now.

As for the next number one contender, this one is totally up in the air. Christian is the favourite to take it home and move on to face Batista, however there are several other scenarios that have been discussed. One of which would see Chris Jericho walk out of Oklahoma victorious with Edge cashing in his Money in the Bank contract before Survivor Series leading to a final showdown between the two. Another scenario talked about is Edge winning this match and having TWO title shots lined up with Edge then playing up that if he is successful with his title shot, the Money in the Bank contract would be up for grabs. This is actually something that is said to be a real possibility, don’t be shocked to see any of these three men walk away with a title shot in hand following tomorrow night’s Triple Threat.

The Women’s Championship is expected to change hands at Unforgiven with Lita having a lot of momentum since her return. Management feel the time may be right with a Lita versus Trish match a much talked about topic backstage. The World Tag Team Titles meanwhile are likely to change also as the Platform to Perfection look all set to claim the gold. Doane and Nemeth have impressed a lot since their debut and the time may be right for them to taste their first championships in the WWE. The Basham Brothers ARE likely to play a role however and that could scupper PTP’s chances. It’s thought that a Triple Threat between the three teams has been discussed, possibly even in a Tables match with PTP winning the gold there, giving them an even BIGGER rub in knocking off the Dudleyz at their own game. PTP are favourites tomorrow night but the veterans may very well end up retaining.

The Intercontinental Championship is the one match where a winner may not be decided until moments beforehand as management continue to go back and forth on just who the winner will be. Jindrak and Regal are very high up in management’s books and it’s thought that Jindrak’s momentum may be halted with defeat here, a feeling that the title will only propel him further whilst defeat for Benjamin would allow his storyline with Charlie Haas to continue progressing. A win for Benjamin however would make a lot of sense to that storyline also, furthering Charlie Haas’ jealous and feeling of neglect whilst also allowing Jindrak a get out clause, perhaps with interference from Haas. Right now there is genuinely no favourite with a lot still to be discussed surrounding this one.

The Mr.Kennedy ‘Open Challenge’ is also a hot topic with rumours running rampant about just who will accept the loudmouth’s challenge. It IS expected to be either Goldust or Eugene, following their bizarre encounter on Monday night, that answer KK’s call. The duo are scheduled to become a permanent team and one of them answering the challenge accompanied by the other would solidify that. This may be a let down for expectant fans who were hoping for a big return but we know for a fact that this will only further the Kennedy/Bischoff storyline which is all set for a HUGE payoff. Kennedy’s call for competition being denied again tomorrow night will lead to the Green Bay native’s frustrations to grow and Survivor Series is set to be the turning point in Kennedy’s quest. We can’t reveal any more details right now but the closer we get towards Survivor Series we hope to reveal more.

And moving forwards for Raw there are a couple of superstars being talked about for debuts on the red brand some time soon. CM Punk, a bright young talent in developmental is pencilled in for a Raw call up and it’s simply a question of when, not if. The lack of ‘Face’ superstars on Raw has been a slight concern but Punk will debut on that side of the fence with his debut being talked about for either after Survivor Series or perhaps after the Royal Rumble. Another man also being discussed to debut on Raw is the fighting Irishman, Finlay. Finlay, who is a former WCW Superstar has been training the WWE’s divas for quite some time now but has been itching for a return to action and it’s thought he will make that comeback on the Raw brand, however his debut is said to not be imminent with either just after the Royal Rumble or possibly as late as the night after Wrestlemania being talked about for him.

Finally, The Big Show will be returning to Raw, perhaps as early as this Monday night. The giant has been absent since Summerslam following his defeat at the hands of Mark Jindrak. Show has been nursing a minor groin injury but is said to be rested up and ready to go with the ‘face’ side of Raw certainly lacking right now, Show will be a timely return. Meanwhile another man on the absent list is Triple H. The Game has been gone since the night after Vengeance and Hunter is said to be enjoying his time off, feeling that some time out of the spotlight will do him as well as the main event scene some good. The Ten time World Champion however IS set to return before the year’s out and there’s been a lot of talk surrounding a face turn for the Cerebral Assassin. With a lot of up and coming heels on the Raw brand, a face Trips would offer a lot of possibilities, something management and Triple H himself would like to take advantage of.


Just wanted to get a few notes up. Show’s pretty much done, just a bit of fine tuning to do, would expect it up sometime during the next week, next weekend at the latest. All the predictions are much appreciated and any more are of course welcomed. Cheers.
 
#238 ·
Yes I would love to see a face turn from Triple H, it is about time Triple H returns as a face, perhaps a D-Generation X reunion wouldn't be out of the question because I think everyone including myself has been wanting to see it and DX can make Eric Bischoff's life a living hell

But as for the World Title picture, I expect Edge to cash in his briefcase real soon

And as for the Entity they can be the heel super group of RAW like how Evolution was
 
#239 ·
7 - World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match
Batista© vs Kane
~ I feel Batista has a lot more life in his title run, and when you do choose to end it, I don't think it will be with Kane.

6 - Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)
The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels
~ Arabian Entity to win, but Michaels will manage to eliminate two or perhaps three Superstars.

4 - Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:
Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho
~ Edge has the Money in the Bank, while Christian has just came off the biggest win of his career. Captain Charisma to continue his momentum by winning and challenging Batista.

1 - WWE Intercontinental Championship:
Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal
~ Benji for me.

3 - World Tag Team Championships:
Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection

2 - Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:
Mr.Kennedy vs?

5 - WWE Women’s Championship:
Victoria© vs Lita

Bonus Questions:

1) Predict the match order - DONE
2) What will be the longest match? Batista/Kane
3) What will be the shortest match? Open Challenge
4) Who will take the pinfall or submission in the Triple Threat match? Jericho
5) Who will be the first man eliminated, if any, in the Handicap match? Khali
6) Will there be any blood shed, if so, which match? World Title & Handicap match
7) Who will answer Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge? Goldust

(Y)
 
#240 ·
Prediction Template:

7. World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match
Batista© vs Kane


You've done a great job building these two guys, but I think Batista's reign has longer on the clock. Much longer. Looking at the feud's history, these guys seem to spend a lot of time throwing each other off the stage, so I'm expecting a pretty crazy match inside the cage. Kane has looked strong but I don't see him as a champion, whereas he'd be quite valuable as a notch on Batista's belt when another challenger steps up, and you can make a big deal out of all the stuff Dave's been through as champion. The Animal to win, but Kane will make it difficult.

5. Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)
The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels


No two ways about it. The Entity physically can't lose to one man, plus this is the chance for the famous moment that you can reference again and again; while you had the violent end to Raw, this is where things get really memorable. I see Michaels taking down the first three, but it'll take him all the energy he has - just enough that a live crowd could be hoping for the underdog victory, but not quite enough - and Hassan will make him tap. Then you have reason to keep this red-hot feud going, with HBK desperate to pay Hassan back for his bloody end on this PPV.

4. Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match:
Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho


The guy is on fire. He retired Flair, and now he can move on to Batista for the obvious angle there, as well as the fact they'd have some great matches too. He takes the win here, keeps labelling himself 'the man', and goes on to make a huge challenge to Batista. Could see him taking the strap as well, though that may be Edge's job down the line. For now, Edge has the briefcase, Jericho/Batista doesn't really fit, and it's all set up for Christian to start a huge new angle against Big Dave. Lots of possibilities there, plus a possible Edge/Jericho payoff in the meantime.

1. WWE Intercontinental Championship:
Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal


With the angles you've got going on, I'm going for Benjamin, and not just because I'm not a huge fan of Jindrak. I could see you switching the title here, but I'll go with Shelton nonetheless because his angle with Haas has more to offer if there's a title there to embody why Shelton's technically considered 'the better man'. That, plus the belt's the only thing stopping a WGTT reunion, which is what's making Haas conflicted; if Benjamin loses the title, Haas essentially loses that potential for character work.

2. World Tag Team Championships:
Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection


Time for change. The Dudleys are relatively dull as champions now, so I think there's no harm in shifting the titles to guys who can liven things up. Plus they're talented guys and they deserve the titles for the sake of their push. On top of that, the added presence of the Bashams means the PTP would make sensible champions so they can step up next. In the future, if Haas and Benjamin reunite, again the PTP would make excellent opponents. All evidence points to Nemeth and Doane.

3. Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:
Mr.Kennedy vs ?


The above suggestions of CM Punk and Triple H are great thinking; either of those are viable options and I'd enjoy either of those. That being said, I'm going to be different for no real reason and say Charlie Haas. I doubt it'll happen but I think the guy wants his opportunity at taking a bit of the spotlight for himself, without having Benjamin in the way, and this is his chance to get some real competition on his own. Even if it's not him, Kennedy's gonna smack some bitches up and win... unless it's Hunter, then it's time for the shovel.

6. WWE Women’s Championship:
Victoria© vs Lita


In preparation for a possible new heel or a Trish return down the line. I wouldn't be opposed to some Victoria dominance but Lita coming back in the role she has suggests that this is her feel-good moment.

Bonus Questions:

1) Predict the match order Done son.
2) What will be the longest match? Kane/Batista so they can tear it up.
3) What will be the shortest match? Ahh. I'd say Kennedy if it was Eugene or Goldust but the bigger named possibilities make me lean towards Lita/Victoria. I'll gamble and say Diva's shortest.
4) Who will take the pinfall or submission in the Triple Threat match? Jericho.
5) Who will be the first man eliminated, if any, in the Handicap match? GTFO Dutt
6) Will there be any blood shed, if so, which match? Hassan to kill HBK and maybe Batista gets grated against the cage.
7) Who will answer Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge? Charlie "Kills In Cold Blood" Haas.

Looks like being a bon show, fella. Best of luck, I can't wait. (Y)
 
#241 ·
WWE Unforgiven:

18th September 2005: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Ford Center​


*Opening Video Package*

We see a shot of a smirking Eric Bischoff who stands in the ring, grinning ear to ear as the theme music for the event begins to play. We then see a shot of a defiant Shawn Michaels standing tall in the ring, a look of no emotion whatsoever as the music continues to play.

Narrator:
We all make decisions in life…

We then see back at Summerslam where Shawn Michaels take Kane’s head off with Sweet Chin Music before making the three count for Batista to retain his World Title.

Narrator:
Some decisions are bold…

We then see Batista and Kane brawling across the arena before a flash of Batista spearing Kane off the stage as well as Kane chokeslamming Batista through the announce table. The next image we see is of a Steel Cage being lowered.

Eric Bischoff:
I’m gonna make sure they settle things the way they wanna settle it. Face to face, man to man, nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, an Animal and a Monster…LOCKED INSIDE A FIFTEEN FOOT HIGH STEEL CAGE!!

Batista:
Nowhere to go, nowhere to run, nowhere to hide and we will see once and for all who the better man…really is.

Narrator:
Some decisions are brave…

We then see Shawn Michaels crouched down backstage with a smile upon his face before walking away and we see the chilling image of a dented Steel Chair and all four members of the Arabian Entity laid out cold.

Shawn Michaels:
But as much as they want to punish me, as much as they want to change me, as much as they want me to jump on their bandwagon, I will never, let me repeat…I…will…NEVER…lose my beliefs. I will NEVER…lose faith.

Narrator:
Some are right…

We then see Charlie Haas coming to the aid of Shelton Benjamin who is taking a beating at the hands of William Regal and ‘The Protégé’, Mark Jindrak.

Jim Ross:
Well thank God for Charlie Haas.

The Coach:
I thought he’d seen the light. You’re only makin’ this worse Charlie…

Narrator:
Some are wrong…

We see the Arabian Entity laying a beating on the Heartbreak Kid from this past Monday on Raw, including the sickening handcuffing of Shawn Michaels before the vile ring bell shots to the helpless Showstopper.

Jim Ross:
OH YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME!! THE DAMAGE IS DONE!! WHAT IN THE WORLD IS THE NEED FOR THIS?! WHY, DAMN IT, WHY?!

Narrator:
But for every decision we are judged…

We see Edge using the Money in the Bank Briefcase to beat Chris Jericho at Summerslam.

Jim Ross:
Oh come on!! Edge had to use that damn briefcase to screw Chris Jericho tonight!!

We then see a shot of Shawn Michaels raising Batista’s hand high in victory at Summerslam.

Eric Bischoff:
Summerslam was the very last time you get one over on me…I guarantee that Shawn Michaels is gonna realise first hand why you do NOT…cross…the boss.

A shot now of a beaming General Manager with that twisted grin of his.

Narrator:
Some are forgiven…

We see Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin shaking hands, albeit a little hesitantly.

Narrator:
But there are those who will always remain…UNFORGIVEN.

And with that the music picks up pace and we see a hotbed of the recent action on Monday Night Raw including Batista delivering a devastating Batistabomb off the stage to Kane. We see Christian ambushing Chris Jericho on the ramp before a shot of Mr.Kennedy delivering a ‘Mic Check’ to poor Eugene. We then get another shot of Kane who delivers a devastating Chokeslam to Batista.

Eric Bischoff:
They’re not just gonna beat Shawn Michaels, they’re not just gonna finish his career, they’re gonna finish…his life.

We then round off the video package in seeing yet another devilish smirk from Raw’s General Manager before a shot of a fallen, wounded, defenceless Shawn Michaels, bloodied and battered at the hands of the Entity.

Narrator:
And now Monday Night Raw presents: WWE Unforgiven!!​

PYRO!!

PYRO!!

PYRO!!

With that we get a shot of a fired up crowd in Oklahoma, signs all around including ‘Animal>Monster’, ‘I have faith Shawn’, ‘Marry me Lita, ‘Where’s Triple H?’ and the now obligatory ‘KENNEDYYYYYYY’ as J.R and Coach welcome us to the show.​

Jim Ross:
We are LIVE from the sold out Ford Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma as we welcome you ladies and gentleman to Unforgiven!! I’m Jim Ross, joined as ever by Jonathan Coachman on a night where those who have sinned will plead for forgiveness!! It is a night that may very well be make or break for the superstars of Monday Night Raw. Coach, what a night we have in store!!

The Coach:
You got that right J.R, I am PUMPED for tonight!! Four Championships are on the line, we’ve got a Steel Cage hanging above that ring, we’ve got a Handicap match, we’ve got Divas, you name it, WE GOT IT!!

Jim Ross:
Absolutely, it is a blockbuster card, no doubt about it and as Coach said, four championships on the line, the biggest of which…the World Heavyweight Title!! Batista puts his gold on the line against the Big Red Machine, Kane. It’s the Animal versus the Monster and it’s inside a Steel Cage!!

The Coach:
Doesn’t get any bigger and I haven’t got a doubt in my mind J.R, Kane is walkin’ outta here as the NEW World Champion. You can’t contain a caged monster and that’s nothin’ but a fact.

Jim Ross:
No doubt a testing night for Batista and his championship reign as those two bitter rivals go toe to toe. I think we’re gonna have a slobberknocker on our hands when those two bulls collide tonight. But that’s not all we’ve got folks, it is a HUGE night in the career of the Heartbreak Kid, Shawn Michaels. Will Michaels faith really see him through? The Showstopper must take on the Arabian Entity in a Four on One Handicap Match, the odds are very much against Eric Bischoff’s ‘Personal Employee’ here in Oklahoma, you’ve gotta fear the worst for Shawn here tonight.

The Coach:
It’s game over tonight for the Heartbreak Kid, I guarandamntee it!! The Entity are on FIRE and if this past Monday on Raw is anything to go by, this is gonna be a long and painful night for Shawn Michaels. Eric Bischoff may just get his wish J.R, the show may well be stopped for the Showstopper!!​

'Born Naughty’

But we are kicking this thing off with the emergence of Mark Jindrak accompanied by his mentor William Regal as the duo enter to a chorus of boos, Jindrak eyeing gold here tonight.

Jim Ross:
But we are getting started in the Ford Center with some Intercontinental Title action as this man ‘The Protégé’ Mark Jindrak chases his first singles title here in the WWE. The roll he’s been on ever since aligning with William Regal suggests that he may very well do that here tonight Coach.

The Coach:
Absolutely J.R. Jindrak has been on FIRE since he joined forces with William Regal. He took out Big Show at Summerslam and we haven’t seen that lump o’ lard since. This man has been total domination and hey, it only helps his cause tonight with the tension his opponent’s got with his own freakin’ partner.

'Ain’t No Stoppin Me Now’

Speak of the devils out next are the Intercontinental Champion Shelton Benjamin accompanied by his tag team partner, a recently frustrated, Charlie Haas. Benjamin looks focused as he eyes up Jindrak and Regal, waiting in the ring, Haas giving the duo a glare also before looking back at Benjamin in the same fashion.

Jim Ross:
Well there is no denying that these two men have had a little tension creeping in between ‘em of late but I got full faith that Charlie Haas will stand by his partner. All this stemming from the fact that Benjamin wants to put that Intercontinental title first and Coach, can ya really blame him?

The Coach:
Oh I can J.R, believe me. Shelton Benjamin is a selfish man, he’s got NO INTEREST in Charlie Haas, he’s got NO INTEREST in goin’ after the Tag Team Titles with him and if I were Charlie Haas, I’d have listened real carefully to what William Regal said to him this past Monday night.

Jim Ross:
All mind games Coach, Regal wants any advantage he can get for Mark Jindrak here tonight.

The Coach:
William Regal was just being a good man J.R , it’s what he does.

With that J.R sighs and we’re all set to get underway here!!​

WWE Intercontinental Championship:

Shelton Benjamin© w/Charlie Haas vs Mark Jindrak w/William Regal

The opening contest gets underway and the fans are ready and rocking as Benjamin bounds up and down on the spot, Jindrak simply standing still, an intensity in his eyes as he looks on at the equally focused champion. We then get a close up shot of both William Regal and Charlie Haas on the outside, Regal has an evil smirk, Haas looking a little deflated, head down as Benjamin and Jindrak now begin circling the ring.

The two men lock up but Jindrak’s power sees him force Benjamin back towards the corner, the referee trying to get in the thick of things but Benjamin shows his resolve, the two still locked up but Benjamin forces Jindrak back towards the centre of the ring now. Jindrak now though breaks his grip and QUICKLY STRIKES WITH A KNEE TO THE GUT!!

Benjamin winded as Jindrak strikes and immediately grabs hold of the current champion, driving another stiff knee into the gut AND AGAIN as Benjamin winces in pain. Jindrak then quickly grabs the left arm of Benjamin and delivers an Irish whip, Benjamn rebounds and Jindrak goes for a BIG back body drop BUT BENJAMIN LANDS ON HIS FEET!! Incredible athleticism as Jindrak spins back round right into Benjamin’s path, boot to the gut from Benjamin, NO!! Jindrak catches it and shoves Benjamin’s foot away BUT BENJAMIN CATCHES HIM WITH A DRAGON WHIP!! Jindrak’s skull is rattled as he drops to the mat and Benji scrambles into a cover…

1…

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2…

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Kick out at two from Jindrak!!

William Regal looks like he nearly had a panic attack as his protégé comes within a whisker of being defeated. Benjamin is quickly back up, his ankle appearing to be one hundred percent now after weeks of trouble with it as he drags Jindrak up and nails him firmly with a forearm that rocks the big man back. Repeated right hands now from the champion, forcing Jindrak into the corner as he strikes with one more hammer blow. Irish whip now from Shelton, Jindrak tossed from one corner to another as Benjamin lines him up, the crowd readying themselves as Benjamin storms right at Jindrak, NOBODY HOME!!

Benjamin crashes into the corner, stumbling backwards now as Jindrak runs the ropes and SMASHES BENJAMIN WITH A CLOTHESLINE!! Tables turned again here as Regal applauds his apprentice, Charlie Haas looking down at the floor, his expression unchanged since the beginning of this contest. Jindrak now goes for his first cover of the match…

1…

...

2…

Kick out immediately on two from Shelton as Jindrak gives the referee a glare, disapproving of his decision as he quickly picks himself up and dusts himself down, conversing with William Regal quickly, his mentor always offering encouragement. Jindrak goes back to work on Benjamin straight after, Benjamin on the verge of sitting up only for his challenger to keep him grounded, smashing a left boot into his skull, Benjamin’s head hitting the mat as Jindrak now nails him with repeated boots to the face, Benjamin trying to protect himself but Jindrak relentlessly continuing as the referee now tells him to break it off, Jindrak nailing one final boot for good measure before stopping his onslaught with a worried silence coming across the Ford Center now.

Jindrak now drops to Shelton’s level, kneeling down on top of Benjamin, grabbing the back of his opponent's head, pulling him back towards himself and Jindrak CLOBBERS the champion with some devastating left hands!! Jindrak not letting up at all here as Regal yells ‘PUNISH HIM’, no holding back from Jindrak as Benjamin’s head crashes back off the mat. The champion is certainly looking in trouble here as the Protégé now hooks a leg and goes for a cover, 1…kick out at one and a half from Benjamin, showing his usual resilience and heart as he stays in this thing.

We once again head to the outside and get a glimpse of Charlie Haas who is now crouched down, elbows on his knees, hands clasped together as he appears to be deep in thought, Coach telling us that ‘He’s thinkin’ about how great it’d be to see his partner feel his pain tonight’. Jindrak brings himself to his feet, perhaps looking to raise the tempo in this one now as he brings Benjamin up also, smashing him with a forearm to the jaw before a big time Irish whip from the challenger, Benjamin flies to the ropes but he holds right onto them, Jindrak storming after him but BENJAMIN PULLS THE ROPES DOWN AND JINDRAK GOES FLYING UP AND OVER!!

Crash landing for the Protégé as William Regal looks on in horror, his apprentice having taken a heavy fall there, Benjamin perhaps shifting the momentum in this thing his way once again. Jindrak clutches the back of his head in pain, Regal shuffling around the ring, coming to his side as he tries to will the Protégé back to his feet. Jindrak beginning to surface here, slowly but surely with Regal doing everything in his power to drag him upright, the referee’s count out is at four now with Regal having, to his relief, drawn Jindrak to his feet, the crowd are going electric however…AS BENJAMIN FLIES FROM OUT OF NOWHERE AND TAKES BOTH MEN OUT WITH A PLANCHA!!

Regal and Jindrak floored, the crowd cheering wildly for that high risk, high reward move from Shelton Benjamin. Benjamin however is also floored momentarily but seems to be finding his bearings a little quicker than the challenger and likewise his manager. Meanwhile the camera shifts towards Charlie Haas who is slowly making his way around the ring, perhaps to give some encouragement to his partner? Or…perhaps just to keep a slightly closer eye on proceedings.

Benjamin slowly begins to rise, getting to his knees as he grasps out for the apron, trying to pull himself up as we then see Jindrak is slowly getting to his knees also, heading towards the announce table to drag himself up, Regal remains down as Haas now finds himself right on the scene, eyeing up Jindrak. The referee’s count out is ongoing and is at the count of six as Benjamin is now to his feet and he locks eyes first of all with Haas, the two exchanging a glare before Haas then gives him a little nod. Jindrak is now up to his feet having used the announce table to help him, he spins round and sees Benjamin perched up against the ring, Jindrak hurls himself at the champ, swinging a left hand but Benjamin blocks it and instead nails a boot right to Jindrak’s gut!! Jindrak’s doubled over as Benjamin then tosses the Protégé back inside the squared circle.

Shelton goes to get back in the ring but INSTEAD CHARLIE HAAS SPINS HIM ROUND!! Benjamin looks confused as he asks ‘What?’ Haas simply looks at him before giving his partner… a thumbs up?? Benjamin nods his head, albeit a confused look on his face as he goes to crawl under the bottom rope BUT JINDRAK HAS RUN THE ROPES AND CONNECTS WITH A BASEBALL SLIDE KNOCKING BENJAMIN BACK OUT THE RING AND BENJAMIN IS KNOCKED RIGHT INTO HAAS!! Haas is floored, Benjamin likewise as Jindrak shows a more agile side to his game there, taking advantage of the communication issues there between the World's Greatest Tag Team.

Jindrak immediately goes to assist his mentor to his feet and with both the Protégé and Regal now standing tall it may only be a matter of time for the challenger in this one. Jindrak then turns, again setting his sights back on Benjamin…however Regal wants in on this thing too and he goes right after Charlie Haas!!! Jindrak stomping the hell out of Benjamin, Regal stomping the hell out of Haas as the boos come ringing in from the Oklahoma crowd. Jindrak then opts to drag Benjamin to his feet, the referee’s count only at five right now as Jindrak decides to take advantage of the time he has left as he gets a hold of Benjamin’s left arm and HE WHIPS THE CHAMPION… BAM!! BENJAMIN CRASHES FACE FIRST INTO THE RINGPOST!!

Jindrak immediately lets out a roar which only draws him more heat as Regal, fresh off of stomping a hole through Haas, orders his apprentice to take Benjamin inside the ring, the champion squealing in pain as his partner lies in anguish mere metres from him.

With the referee’s count now at seven, Jindrak obliges with his mentor’s wish and hauls Benjamin up, tossing him with ease back inside the squared circle as he follows right behind. Meanwhile on the outside we see that Regal has gone right back to Charlie Haas, dragging Haas to his feet before nailing a left hand before REGAL WHIPS HAAS INTO THE BARRICADE!! Haas goes shoulder first into the barricade, the impact is huge as we see Jindrak watching on in the ring, a sickening smile across both his and Regal’s face here and it’s their ball game at this moment in the match.

Regal readjusts his suit, the crowd still booing like crazy as Jindrak now refocuses on Benjamin. The ‘Mark of Excellence’ as he was once known brings Benjamin to his feet and instantly levels him with another strong left hand, a flurry of lefts follow as Benajmin’s forced back into the corner. The Protégé then positions Benjamin just how he wants, the champion looking in danger now as Jindrak moves away from the corner, heading infact to the opposite side of the ring…BEFORE THUNDERING TOWARDS BENJAMIN, BIG BOOT TO THE FACE!! NO!! BENJAMIN DUCKS IT AND JINDRAK GETS CAUGHT UP IN THE ROPES!! Benjamin from behind, ROLL UP!! BENJAMIN’S GOT HIM…

1…

...

2…

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3…

...

NO!! JINDRAK KICKS OUT AT THE DEATH!!

The crowd thought he had it there, Regal breathing a sigh of relief as Benjamin’s quickly back on the scene, Jindrak’s right back to his feet too and Benjamin swings at him, Jindrak ducks it, Benjamin spins back round, Irish whip from the challenger, BACK BODY DROP, NO!! WOW!! BENJAMIN CATCHES HIM WITH A JUMPING IMPLANT DDT!! HUGE MOVE FROM BENJAMIN WHO SCRAMBLES INTO A COVER!!

1…

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2…

...

Kick out at two and a half!! Benjamin coming within a whisker once again there!!

Benjamin can’t quite believe that one, looking at the referee, eyes wide open as Jindrak sits up, feeling the effects of that big time move from the champion. Benjamin then begins to feel it, motioning with his hands that the end is coming, the fans begin to pump themselves up as Benjamin’s looking for the T-Bone here…but he’s soon distracted as we see WILLIAM REGAL HOP ONTO THE APRON!! The referee heads over to Regal, telling him to get down, Regal however is calm and can be heard saying ‘I only want to talk to Mark’ but the official is having none of it and NEITHER IS SHELTON BENJAMIN!!

Benjamin storms over to Regal and tells him to ‘Get the hell outta my ring’, Regal is goading him though ‘Or what Mr.Benjamin? What are you going to do about it?’ Benjamin sighs, the crowd egging him…BEFORE BENJAMIN GOES FOR A RIGHT HAND BUT REGAL HOPS OFF THE APRON!! Clever tactics as ever from the Protégé’s master, Regal goading Benjamin into it as he smiles at the champion, Benjamin gritting his teeth in frustration before turning back round to refocus his attention on Jindrak…BUT HE’S CAUGHT WITH A THUNDEROUS BIG BOOT!!

Benjamin tumbles to the mat, Jindrak’s bouncing on the spot, he senses the end may be nigh as Benjamin sits back up, trying to come to his senses. He’s up to one knee here looking dazed, looking confused as the Protégé stalks his prey…Jindrak runs the ropes…AND HE STRIKES AT THE SPEED OF LIGHT WITH A STUNNING KNEE TREMBLER!! BENJAMN’S HEAD IS KNOCKED OFF HIS DAMN SHOULDERS OFF THE IMPACT!! There’s a massive ‘Ooooooh’ from the crowd at the devastating sound of Jindrak’s finisher as Benjamin is floored, the challenger scrambles towards the champion, hook of the leg…

1…

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3…

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NEW CHAMPION!!! NEW CHAMPION!! NO!! JINDRAK GOT THE THREE COUNT BUT…BUT CHARLIE HAAS HAS PUT THE CHAMPION’S FOOT ON THE BOTTOM ROPE!!

The referee never saw Haas but he sure as hell saw the foot!! Jindrak doesn’t seem to realise what’s happened, he’s standing tall, he’s pleading with the referee to raise his hand but the referee is waving him away, trying to explain what’s happened. William Regal is now up on the apron again and he’s explaining EXACTLY what happened to the official, trying to get the decision reversed as we then see Jindrak’s head slowly turn, he looks like he’s about to blow a gasket as he locks eyes with Charlie Haas!!

Haas simply looks right back at the ‘Protégé’, shrugging his shoulders as if to say ‘Wasn’t me’ but Jindrak is having none of it as he and Regal nod at each other, BOTH HOPPING OFF THE APRON AND THEY STORM RIGHT AFTER HAAS!! Haas though wants nothing to do with Regal and his apprentice and begins running up the ramp!! Coach is surprisingly giving Haas some credit for running away, stating that nobody wants to mess with these two men, J.R meanwhile is shocked that Haas is simply running away from this whole situation, stating that Haas should 'Face up to what he's done'.

Regal continues his pursuit, he’s not letting up on Haas here as the two chase up the ramp. Jindrak though waits at the bottom, standing by the ring, clearly wary of the count out as we then see Haas and Regal exit through the curtain, the chase is on backstage it would seem!! The Protégé is seething here, gritting his teeth together as he breathes heavily, clearly angered at what’s gone down before turning back round, realising the match is still within his grasp as he then angrily lets out his frustrations with a ferocious roar before stepping back inside the ring.

Jindrak slowly steps through the ropes seeing that Benjamin is up to one knee…Jindrak having a focus in his eyes, the anger evident as Benjamin is in that Knee Trembler position once more. Jindrak sizes him up before he runs the ropes, KNEE TREMBLER INCOMING…STRIKES ONCE AGAIN!! NO!! BENJAMIN DUCKS IT!! Jindrak spins back round…BENJAMIN MEETS HIM RIGHT THERE AND THEN, T-BONE!! T-BONE SUPLEX FROM OUT OF NOWHERE CONNECTING!! Benjamin pulls one out of the bag, the champion crawling into the cover…

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HE GOT HIM!! BENJAMIN DID IT!! BENJAMIN RETAINS!!

Winner and STILL Intercontinental Champion: Shelton Benjamin(12:07)​

The Coach:
NO WAY!! JINDRAK HAD IT WON!! HE HAD IT IN THE BAG!!

Jim Ross:
Oh you’d better believe it Coach!! Shelton Benjamin has done what looked to be the damn near impossible tonight!! Benjamin is leaving Unforgiven STILL the Intercontinental Champion, an incredible effort!!

The Coach:
Yeah from Charlie Haas, not this guy!! Benjamin was about to tap, Jindrak had him beat but Haas saved the damn thing for him!! When is he gonna learn J.R? When is Charlie Haas gonna realise that Benjamin’s ONLY in it for himself?!

Jim Ross:
What a load of bull Coach, look how much this means to Shelton Benjamin and I’m pretty sure that he’d want his partner to be out here celebrating with him. Haas escaping, much to my surprise, from the advances of William Regal but nevertheless, a huge victory for Shelton Benjamin and the first hurdle tonight in the partnership of that man Mark Jindrak and his mentor, William Regal.

Indeed as J.R. mentions Jindrak we get a shot of him, absolutely seething inside the ring, on his knees pounding the mat in anger, failing to believe what’s just gone on whilst we see Benjamin having his hand raised on the ramp, a look of sheer jubilation as he holds his championship up high, looking longingly at it before a delighted smile right back at the furious challenger he overcame tonight.

We then head backstage for the first time tonight and rather unsurprisingly it’s to the office of Raw’s General Manager, Eric Bischoff who appears to be in a buoyant mood as he paces up and down with a smile as wide the room upon his face.

Eric Bischoff:
This is it. Tonight is the NIGHT…FINALLY I get rid…of Shawn Michaels.

Bischoff then begins to laugh, the crowd booing at the boss’ actions before the camera pans and we see all four members of The Arabian Entity stood inside Bischoff’s office, their image also greeted with strong boos.

Eric Bischoff:
And I just wanted to call you four in here to say…well to say an early thank you. Thank you for helping me to do what I’ve been hell bent on doing for…for I can’t even remember how long!! What you did this past Monday on Raw was just…God, it was a thing of beauty.

Bischoff appears to be picturing in it in his head as he looks up to the sky, grinning slyly.

Eric Bischoff:
But it won’t even come close to what happens here tonight. Tonight is the icing on the cake, tonight you put the final nail in Shawn Michaels’ coffin, tonight…you end it all.

Bischoff now rubs his hands together, that twisted laugh of his before Hassan steps forward.

Muhammad Hassan:
You don’t need to thank us Eric. This might be what you want but we want it just as much, we need it just as much, hell we need it EVEN MORE. This may be your chance to get rid of him but this is our chance to take control. This is our chance to not just get rid of him but to gain every ounce of power in this company. Tonight we make a statement and when it’s all over with, this company, those people, this COUNTRY… will show us the respect we deserve.

Ridiculous amount of boos for Hassan who is eating it up as Bischoff is still smirking, those words clearly pleasing the boss.

Eric Bischoff:
That is EXACTLY what I wanna hear. Tonight is your night, it’s my night, it is OUR…night. Shawn Michaels may think his faith is gonna see him through this but I know, just like you do, faith is nothin’ but a bunch of crap.

Hassan and his men look at one another, nodding their heads in agreement as Dutt and Daivari smirk.

Muhammad Hassan:
To hear that coming from somebody who is not like us, who hasn’t experienced what we’ve experienced, who hasn’t felt what we’ve felt, that means a whole lot Eric. To know that you don’t buy into it like all the sheep who follow Shawn Michaels fills us with hope that there are others out there like you too.

Hassan looks at his three men before continuing.

Muhammad Hassan:
Faith is nothing but false hope and tonight we vow to put an end to any last remaining hope Shawn Michaels has, to put an end to what little faith he has left, to put an end to Shawn Michaels…period.

Strong heat for that as Bischoff begins grinning.

Eric Bischoff:
Gentlemen…I can’t wait to see it.

And with that we see the Entity exit Bischoff’s office, a real purpose about the quartet tonight before a close up shot of Bischoff who is seemingly on cloud nine, believing that this is the night he gets what he so desperately desires. We then head back to ringside, all set for some more championship action...​

'LoveFuryPassionEnergy’

And it’s a pretty strong pop that greets the music of the Daredevil Diva herself, Lita who storms out onto the stage full of energy as she gets set for her long awaited championship opportunity.

Jim Ross:
Well it is certainly mission impossible for Shawn Michaels here tonight and some people believe it may be mission impossible for this woman too. Lita was all set to face Victoria back at Summerslam for the Women’s Championship only to have that chance taken away thanks to a sickening assault from the dangerous champion. Tonight Lita gets her chance at not just the title, but at retribution.

The Coach:
It is mission impossible J.R. I just don’t see how Victoria can be beaten, I really don’t. Lita’s one of the best diva’s there has ever been, I don’t disagree with that but Victoria may be THE greatest, if she’s not, she’s certainly he most dangerous.

‘I Ain’t a Lady to mess with’

Lita waits patiently inside the squared circle as we see Victoria make her way down the ramp, that crazed look on her face as a flutter of boos come her way, removing her title belt before looking at it in a rather deranged way, eventually locking eyes with the woman who’s ankle she tried to snap several weeks ago.

Jim Ross:
Well dangerous she is, crazy may be another word that wouldn’t be used lightly against Victoria. Since capturing the Women’s Title, she has put Trish Stratus on the shelf, she took Lita out too, she has taken out just about anybody who has stepped in her path and she’s hell bent on not just taking Lita out again tonight, but taking her down for good.

The Coach:
And that’s where Lita’s problem lies tonight. Victoria isn’t just interested in winning this thing, she’s interested in hurting Lita, she’s interested in punishing her, making her suffer. Tonight may be Lita’s chance at retribution, she might think this is gonna be where she gets that payback she so desperately wants but fact is, this is the night Victoria finishes what she started before Summerslam.​

WWE Women’s Championship:

Victoria© vs Lita

Lita looks primed and ready to go here, the chance she’s been waiting for, the chance she was denied at Summerslam by the callous champion who stands opposite the Daredevil Diva, Victoria not budging an inch as she smirks menacingly back at her opponent. The bell then rings and Victoria’s smile soon vanishes, Lita’s expression unchanged before both women storm towards the centre of the ring and Lita is like a house on fire!! Repeated right hands from the fired up challenger, Victoria having no response as she’s sent rocking, the fans going crazy as Lita hammers away, all her pent up anger and frustration being taken out on her bitter rival.

The challenger sends Victoria rocking back into the corner, relentless right hands before a boot right into Victoria’s gut, stomp after stomp on the champion now and Victoria has no answer to this lightning speed. Lita finally lets up, perhaps worn out as she takes a deep breath, letting out a roar like sound to the crowd who respond right back with a loud pop as Lita again charges at the champion BUT VICTORIA GETS A BOOT UP!!

Lita’s sent stumbling back as Victoria takes a second to regroup, Lita then turning round right into another boot from the champion, this time catching Lita in the gut as Victoria now strikes with a strong forearm, again sending Lita stumbling. Victoria now hammering away with a brutal onslaught, the referee trying to calm Victoria down but it’s non stop from the ferocious champion. Victoria now has Lita pegged in the corner and rams into her with a shoulder to the gut, Lita crying out in pain as another massive shoulder smashes into her gut before a boot for good measure.

That usual crazed look is in the eyes of Victoria as she smells blood here. Irish whip, Lita gliding across the ring, Victoria comes charging right behind her and she CLUBS Lita with a clothesline!! Lita’s back smashing into the turnbuckle before she drops down to the mat off the impact, total dominance right now from Victoria.

Victoria slowly stalks Lita who is scrambling around on the mat, J.R and Coach playing up just how much tougher the challenge for Lita has now become. The champion again shows her ruthless streak, picking apart the weak left ankle of Lita now, stomping away, no remorse as she slowly, almost meticulously hammers down on that ankle, Lita in clear discomfort, perhaps that ankle still not at a hundred per cent following the sickening assault from the champion one month ago.

Lita is helpless right now, that twisted look in the champion’s eyes is evident as she continues this slow assault on the Daredevil Diva. Victoria now running the ropes, rebounding but in a plodding fashion before she DROPS A KNEE RIGHT ONTO THE ANKLE!! Lita cries out in anguish as Victoria laughs to herself, the crowd booing her actions as Lita again clutches the ankle, Victoria going for a cover now…

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Lita manages to roll a shoulder!!

The crowd give a roar of approval as Lita stays in the game, just about. Victoria has a look of frustration but she quickly picks herself up and also drags Lita up with her, perhaps a change of tactic now from the champion. Victoria has Lita doubled over and keeps an arm across the back of the redhead’s neck before driving a knee right into the stomach!! Victoria drilling a right knee, drilling a left knee, shot after shot now to the mid section of Lita before a boot to round up the charge as Victoria then hoists Lita up high…and drops her with a beautiful suplex!!

The majority seem to expect a cover following that move, including the commentary duo but instead Victoria simply gives that twisted smirk of hers and slowly trickles over to her fallen opponent. Victoria drops slowly down to her opponent, once again dragging Lita to her feet, this time though she almost tosses Lita towards the corner, it’s all too easy right now for this devilish diva as she toys with Lita, prodding her in the chest, slowly telling her that ‘This isn’t what you thought it was gonna be’ before she goes for a devastating right hand BUT LITA BLOCKS IT!!

Victoria swings another right again, ANOTHER BLOCK!! LITA NOW WITH A BIG RIGHT HAND!! The challenger showing all her usual fight, heart, determination to claw her way back into this thing as she smashes Victoria with right hands, hobbling across the ring, she grabs Victoria by the arm, Irish whip…Victoria hangs onto the ropes and Lita comes running in, struggling to go full speed as Victoria sees her coming and TOSSES HER THROUGH THE ROPES!!

Lita takes a nasty fall there as Victoria takes a second to catch her breath, perhaps a little surprised at Lita’s comeback there. The ferocious diva then heads down to the outside, slowly strutting down the steps as Lita gets to her knees, Victoria pulls her by the hair, gritting her teeth as she does so, dragging Lita up to her feet before SMASHING Lita face first off the apron!!

Lita groggily falls away, remaining on her feet before Victoria tosses her back inside the ring, breaking the referee’s count out…but Victoria doesn’t follow behind? Instead she sets her sights towards Lilian Garcia. Lilian looks petrified as Victoria eyes her up before whispering right in the face of Lilian ‘Move’. Lilian duly obliges, scared senselss, wanting no part of the Women’s Champion as Victoria steps past her and she GRABS A STEEL CHAIR!!

There’s a sense of anticipation now as Victoria takes the chair in her hands, looking at it, eyeing it up as though it were her prize possession before she heads back towards the ring, seeking to further damage her already weakened challenger. Victoria slides the chair under the bottom rope, following right behind it but Lita pounces!! Lita is ready and waiting and strikes with a boot to the back of Victoria’s neck. Hard stomps from Lita, her resilience evident here as she brings Victoria to her feet, stiff forearm from Lita before a big right hand, Irish whip, Victoria rebounds, HURRICANRANA!! WOW!! Lita on one leg takes Victoria down with a beautifully timed Hurricanrana BUT…she immediately grabs the left ankle, that high impact move clearly taking it out of her.

Both women get back to their feet, Lita a little gingerly, Victoria more of a confused state as she spins round, boot to the gut, roar to the crowd by Lita…TWIST OF FATE!! CONNECTING!! LITA CAUGHT HER!! The crowd are going crazy now, they sense the end is near as Lita hobbles across to the corner, she’s heading up high. Victoria is laid out here as Lita slowly, valiantly climbs up to the top, she gets there, steadies herself before a ROAR to the crowd, responding right back at her, MOONSAULT OFF THE TOP!!! NOBODY HOME!! Victoria rolls outta dodge, the crowd groaning as Victoria survives by the skin of her teeth. Both women down, Victoria crawling away from her opponent as Lita rolls on the mat in anguish, both these two now fighting to get to their feet.

The referee checks on both as Victoria is still crawling, Lita trying to get to her knees, she’s slowly there, gets to her feet now, using the ropes for leverage and she spins round, Victoria still on her knees…BAM!! VICTORIA WITH THAT DAMN STEEL CHAIR SMASHES LITA IN THE ANKLE!! THE REFEREE CALLS FOR THE BELL AS LITA DROPS DOWN IN AGONY!! Victoria using a ‘get out of jail’ card here tonight!!

Winner via Disqualification: Lita

But STILL Women’s Champion: Victoria(7:54)​

Jim Ross:
Victoria taking the easy way out tonight!! I thought Victoria was supposed to be dominant, supposed to take on all challengers, stand up to any fight but tonight Victoria has shown her true colours!! A cowardly act from the Women’s Champion and now look, what the hell is the meaning of this?!?

The Coach:
There ain’t no damn cowardice J.R. We said it from the get go, Victoria wanted to HURT Lita here tonight and she’s damn sure gonna do it!! Lita’s ankle’s about to snap in half!!

Victoria is clearly not finished as she keeps hold of that steel chair…BEFORE PLACING IT AROUND THE ANKLE OF LITA!! The challenger is in heaps of trouble here as Victoria begins to scale the ropes, headed up high!!

Jim Ross:
Ah for God sakes!! Somebody needs to stop this!! Lita’s ankle’s about to be snapped into two!!

Victoria sets herself, Lita is helpless…

‘TIME TO ROCK ‘N ROLL’

BUT VICTORIA IS SHOCKED AND SO ARE THE OKLAHOMA FAITHFUL AS THE MUSIC OF TRISH STRATUS HITS AND THE BLONDE BOMBSHELL COMES STORMING DOWN THE RAMP, HEADED VICTORIA’S WAY!!

The Coach:
WHAT THE HELL IS SHE DOING HERE?!?

Jim Ross:
TRISH STRATUS!! TRISH IS HERE AND SHE’S GUNNING FOR VICTORIA!!

Trish charges into the ring, Victoria dropping down and THE FIGHT IS ON!! TRISH STRIKES WITH RIGHT HANDS!! VICTORIA STRIKING BACK!! A FIST FIGHT BETWEEN THE TWO DIVAS!! Trish is winning the battle though, all her anger being taken out on the woman who put her on the shelf!! Victoria forced back, Irish whip by Trish…BUT VICTORIA HOLDS ONTO THE ROPES, DROPS DOWN AND ROLLS OUT OF THE RING, SHE WANTS NO PART OF TRISH STRATUS TONIGHT!!

Jim Ross:
That right there says it all!! Victoria got outta dodge tonight with Lita and by gawd she just dodged the bullet with Trish Stratus!!

The Coach:
She wasn’t prepared for this!! She wasn’t ready for Trish tonight!! What reason does Victoria have to fight her? She already broke her ankle once and next time you know she’ll do it again J.R. Trish is just as stupid as Lita. This is Victoria’s street now, she makes the rules and Lita and Trish are gonna have to deal with ‘em.

Trish now comforts Lita inside the ring, helping her remove the chair from around her ankle as she scowls at Victoria, the champion backing up the ramp, wanting no piece of either Trish or Lita as the two fan favourites share a nod of respect, both of them so desperate for payback on the devilish champion.​

*Video Package*

Narrator:
Survival is the struggle to remain living…

We see Shawn Michaels bloodied and battered, hung up in the ropes with a look of sheer desperation on his face.

The next image we’re shown is of Batista and Kane both laid out in the technical area, both unmoved and seemingly unconscious.

Jim Ross:
THEY MIGHTA JUST DAMN NEAR KILLED EACH OTHER!!

Narrator:
And in times of struggle there are those who will crumble…

We see Edge puffing his cheeks before a shot of Chris Jericho, head down, a look of frustration before an image of Charlie Haas shaking his head backstage, hands on hips, a look of despair.

Narrator:
There are those who will fail to rise…

We see Kurt Angle and Randy Orton standing strong together, standing tall over a fallen John Cena, the Doctor of Thuganomics laid out cold, the WWE Championship laid down beside him.

We then get a shot of Shelton Benjamin laid out cold by the announce table, Mark Jindrak standing above him with a final image of Benjamin, eyes glazed over as he struggles to bring himself upright.

Narrator:
But then there are those who will show strength…

We get a shot of Christian standing on the top rope, celebrating victory, surveying for his ‘Peeps’ before we see Matt Hardy holding the United States Championship up high in celebration.

We then see Edge clutching his Money in the Bank briefcase in jubilation before a shot of Muhammad Hassan, arms outstretched, eyes closed with his Entity around him.

Narrator:
There are those who will stand up and be counted…

We see Kane sitting up in his menacing fashion before a shot of Chris Jericho applying the Walls of Jericho.

That’s followed up by Rob Van Dam connecting with a Five Star Frog Splash to Johnny Nitro.

The next image we’re shown is of Big Show sending a devastating Chokeslam to William Regal before letting out a trademark roar.

Narrator:
And it shall be those men who WILL…survive…

We see Batista delivering a BatistaBomb to Kane, the music getting faster, louder before we see The Undertaker delivering a devastating Tombstone Piledriver to Randy Orton.

Images of several superstars then flash up, all of whom have the same message.

Chris Jericho:
I will be the one to survive.

Edge:
I will be the one to survive.

Muhammad Hassan:
I will be the sole survivor.

John Cena:
Survival is all that matters.

Randy Orton:
I won’t let you…survive.

Christian:
I will survive…cos that’s just how I roll.

Kurt Angle:
Survival? You’ll be lucky.

Shawn Michaels:
I’ll survive…I have to.

The video package ends rather eerily as Michaels looks up to the heavens, no sense of emotion on his face before we head to a Survivor Series graphic.​


WWE Presents: Survivor Series

27th November 2005; Joe Louis Arena; Detroit, Michigan​

We then head backstage where we see Trish Stratus pacing through the halls, just a few minutes after saving Lita from the wrath of Victoria. Trish appears to be in a hurry but she’s suddenly stopped in her tracks by the pest that is, Todd Grisham.

Todd Grisham:
Trish, Trish great to see you return here tonight, my question to you is, firstly how is the ankle? And just what have you got in mind for Victoria now that you’re back?

Trish doesn’t respond immediately, taking a second to gather her thoughts.

Trish Stratus:
I think you saw out there just how my ankle is Todd. I’m fully cleared, I’m one hundred percent and I am ready to take Victoria down. What have I got in mind for her? Oh believe me, I’ve got a whole lot in mind and despite all her ‘dominance’, I don’t think she’s gonna like it.

Trish is clearly focused and fired up upon her return.

Trish Stratus:
She took my away my title, she took away my freedom, she took away a part of my career that I’ll never get back and now? Now I’m gonna be the one to take it all away from her.

Trish’s defiant stance is evident as that message gets a nice pop.

Trish Stratus:
When she broke my ankle, she didn’t just break me physically, she broke me mentally and that took a lot outta me, it hurt me and that’s something that doesn’t just go away.

Another cold stare from the Canadian beauty.

Trish Stratus:
But as much as I wanna hurt Victoria, I wanna thank her too. I wanna thank her because what she did to me, it did break me but believe me, it made me a whole lot stronger. It’s made me more determined, more focused, more driven than I’ve ever been and I don’t care what Victoria throws my way, I promise I will get my revenge, I promise I will get my championship and I promise…I will put a stop to Victoria.

And with that Trish heads off to a nice pop once again, her message loud and clear here tonight as we then head back to ringside to hear...​

'Just Close your Eyes’

There’s an initial pop before a chorus of heat ensues as out steps Captain Charisma, surveying the arena for all his ‘Peeps’, Christian ready and raring to go as he gets set for a chance to finally receive a shot at the big one. Noticeably Christian is WITHOUT his Problem Solver, no Tomko in his corner tonight, Christian perhaps wanting to do this on his own.

Jim Ross:
Summerslam was the defining night in this young man’s career as Christian ended the long, illustrious career of the Nature Boy Ric Flair. Tonight he looks to go one further, can Captain Charisma at long last earn himself a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship?

The Coach:
He’s gotta be the favourite J.R. Christian’s on the roll of his career, the roll of his life. He’s a changed man, he’s ready, his time is now and he believes that tonight is the tonight he proves himself once again. I got full faith that Captain Charisma is gonna be the next in line for a shot at the big one.

‘Break the Walls Down’

Out next to a big time ovation, the loudest of the night so far is the first ever Undisputed Champion. The Ayatollah of Rock N’ Rolla, Y2J himself, Chris Jericho who is all fired up here tonight in Oklahoma, a chance at the World Title hanging in the balance.

Jim Ross:
Since Summerslam it has been all about one thing for Chris Jericho and that is writing the wrongs. Jericho was screwed at Summerslam, the Money in the Bank contract was there for the taking only for Edge to smash Jericho’s skull in with a devastating briefcase shot and cost Jericho another shot at getting to the top of the mountain. Tonight Y2J gets that chance again, a match he knows he can’t afford to lose.

The Coach:
You’re right about that J.R, this really is ‘last chance’ for Chris Jericho. If he doesn’t win here tonight, will Y2J ever make it to the top again? In my eyes, ain’t a chance in hell. Jericho’s time is done, Edge proved it at Summerslam and tonight he’ll prove it again, Christian will prove it too. If Jericho wins this thing, I’ll eat that cowboy hat o’ yours.

‘Metalingus’

Last but not least, out to major heat is Mr.MITB, the ever arrogant, ever confident and supremely focused, Edge. Edge bobs up and down at the top of the ramp as he eyes up both Jericho and Christian who watch on in the ring as Edge taps his MITB contract before slowly heading down, set for a shot a second guaranteed title opportunity.

Jim Ross:
Well you talk about this being a ‘last chance’, that is most certainly NOT the case for this man. Edge has that guaranteed World Title shot thanks to that Money in the Bank contract which he won back at Wrestlemania but Edge believes that to be his back up option. Edge fully believes his actions inside the ring should reward him with a title opportunity whether he holds that contract or not and victory here tonight will no doubt prove it.

The Coach:
He’s got a pretty valid point J.R. Edge has been damn impressive lately and just because he holds that contract, doesn’t mean he should be held back. Edge is a future World Champion, there ain’t no doubt about it, the question isn’t if, it’s when? Victory here tonight may send us one step closer to finding out.​

Triple Threat #1 Contenders Match

Edge vs Christian vs Chris Jericho

The bell rings as Edge and Christian stand on opposite sides of the ring, both perched in the corner with Jericho standing up against the ropes, eyeing up both men, none of the three are quite sure who to head after and perhaps not quite sure just how to go about it either. The crowd have begun a slow but growing ‘Y2J’ chant and finally a move is made with Jericho being the one to take the plunge. Jericho storms at his long time rival Edge and it’s a flurry of right hands sending Edge aback but almost instantly Jericho’s clubbed from behind by Christian!! It’s chaos right from the get go here as Christian now goes to work on Jericho with clubbing shots of his own across the back of Jericho before Captain Charisma spins him round and delivers a big right hand before we see Edge burst onto the scene also!! Right hand to Jericho from Edge, right hand from Christian, the former partners trading blows on their fellow Canadian as we then get a double Irish whip, Jericho rebounds and it’s a BIG TIME double back body drop that floors Jericho!!

E&C working together like old times there as Christian then goes over to drag Y2J back up BUT EDGE GRABS HIM FROM BEHIND AND TOSSES HIM UP AND OVER THE TOP ROPE!! There’s surprise amongst the crowd, a few jeers, a few cheers as Edge disposes of Christian, his former partner taking a hefty fall to the outside as Edge looks over and tells him ‘I’m in it for me, not you, not anybody else, ME’ before he shifts back to Jericho and it’s these two bitter rivals set to do battle again.

Edge hoists Jericho up, placing him in the corner and Edge now begins to go to work, stomps to the gut of Jericho, repeated, fast boots from the Rated R Superstar, real aggression being shown here as Jericho looks in trouble early on. Edge now with an Irish whip, Jericho fizzing from one corner to the other as Edge comes charging right behind him BUT JERICHO GETS AN ELBOW UP!! Edge stumbles out of the corner, spinning right back around and Jericho comes charging, taking Edge down with a clothesline!!

Edge is quickly back up as Jericho swings again but this time misses, Edge spins Jericho round, boot to the gut followed up by an Irish whip, reversal by Jericho and Edge rebounds…NO!! CHRISTIAN GRABS THE LEGS OF EDGE AND PULLS HIM OUT OF THE RING BEFORE HE STRIKES HIS FORMER PARTNER DOWN WITH A BIG TIME CLOTHESLINE!! The fans give CC a pop for that as he gets a small measure of payback on the Rated R Superstar before Christian brings Edge quickly back up, kick to the mid section, now grabbing Edge’s left arm and WHIPS EDGE INTO THE BARRICADE!! It’s big time impact as Edge’s right shoulder smashes into the barricade and Christian pounds his chest to all his ‘Peeps’ as he spins back round BUT HE GETS CAUGHT IMMEDIATELY WITH A BASEBALL SLIDE BY JERICHO!!

The fans are on the edge of their seats at the minute, the pace electric in these opening exchanges as Jericho gives a wry smirk on the outside before pulling Christian up and tossing him back inside the ring, these two men now vying for that title shot as Edge remains fallen up against the barricade. Jericho allows Christian to his knees before a VICIOUS kick right into the ribs sends Christian tumbling once again. Y2J now pulls him to his feet, nailing Captain Charisma with some strong forearm shots as Christian is backed up towards the ropes. Irish whip by the former Undisputed Champion, Christian rebounding and Jericho goes for a big back body drop BUT CHRISTIAN LANDS ON HIS FEET AND HE DROPS JERICHO WITH A FALLING INVERTED DDT!! Beautiful counter from Christian who slides into a cover…

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Kick out at two by Jericho as Christian cuts a frustrated figure.

Ric Flair’s conqueror brings himself up again, taking a moment as he props himself against the ropes before heading right back to Jericho. He brings Y2J up, striking with a knee to the gut before dragging Jericho towards the corner. Right hands now from Christian followed up with a boot to the gut, repeated kicks now from Christian and he rounds that up by pounding his chest once again, the boos raining down on him as Christian salutes his ‘Peeps’ and that moment’s hesitation costs him as Jericho turns the tables!!!

Jericho spins Christian round and puts him in the corner before ‘WOOOO’, STINGING KNIFE EDGE CHOPS FROM JERICHO!! Christian’s chest taking a battering as Jericho, perhaps out of respect for the Nature Boy, pulls out his signature chops, loud ‘WOOOO’s’ greeting each and every one of them as Jericho backs away, Christian’s chest turning red raw, clutching it in pain as he stumbles forwards, Jericho deciding to run right past him however, what’s Y2J got in mind here? He runs the ropes and BAM!! SPRINGBOARD DROPKICK FROM CHRIS JERICHO!! Christian takes a tumble as Jericho goes for his first cover…

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Kick out at two from Captain Charisma as Jericho flicks his long locks out of the way, eyeing up the referee with a scowl before bringing himself back up, leaving Christian floored BUT OUT OF NOWHERE JERICHO IS ROLLED UP FROM BEHIND BY EDGE!! 1…2…3…NO!! JERICHO JUST ABOUT GETS THE SHOULDER UP AS EDGE NEARLY STEALS IT ON HIS RETURN TO THE CONTEST!!

Both Edge and Jericho are quickly back up and Jericho charges at Mr.MITB but Edge sees it coming, dodges it, Jericho runs the ropes and rebounds BUT EDGE CATCHES HIM PERFECTLY WITH A DROPKICK!! The Rated R Superstar now building momentum in this one as he scrambles into another cover…

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Christian breaks the count!!

Just like that Christian comes roaring back in and now hammers away at Edge, rights and lefts, Christian on his knees, Edge floored before the leader of the ‘Peepulation’ makes his way to his feet and he hoists Edge up also before nailing him with a boot to the gut, following it up by crashing Edge face first off the turnbuckle!! Edge holds his face in pain but is instantly smashed by another boot to the face from Christian, Irish whip follows as Edge goes crashing into the opposite corner, Christian comes charging in BUT EDGE CATCHES HIM WITH A BOOT TO THE FACE!! Christian spirals backwards before Edge spins him round AND DROPS CHRISTIAN WITH A GUTBUSTER!! Beautiful move by Mr.Money in the Bank as he opts to take a breather instead of covering his long time partner.

Edge goes to head back after Christian but he’s caught with a right hand by Jericho!! Y2J back in the game here and he strikes Edge with a big right, repeated rights by Jericho BUT A RAKE OF THE EYES FROM EDGE!! Jericho clutches his face, vision blurred as Edge now grabs him, one hand on the tights, one hand on his back and EDGE TOSSES JERICHO THROUGH THE ROPES AND INTO THE RINGPOST!! JERICHO GOING SHOULDER FIRST INTO THE STEEL!! Big time impact there from Mr.MITB as Jericho drops down and rolls to the outside, in a whole lot of pain as Edge begins to smirk arrogantly, clearly recognising that he’s in control of this thing.

Christian appears to be stirring however and Edge sees this, not wanting his momentum to stop as he heads right back after him and he strikes with a vicious kick to the back of the neck, methodical strikes, slow and forceful by Edge as Christian remains floored. Edge then pulls his fellow Canadian upright, striking with a forearm before an Irish whip, Christian though holds onto the ropes, Edge comes charging BUT CHRISTIAN PULLS THE ROPES DOWN AND EDGE GOES TUMBLING TO THE OUTSIDE!! Perhaps a shift in momentum here with both Edge and Jericho down on the outside, Christian taking a breather inside the ring, the power in his hands right now as he again switches his attentions back on Edge and slowly slides out the ring, headed the way of his former partner.

Captain Charisma brings Edge to his feet, placing him up against the announce table before sticking a boot in to Edge’s mid section BEFORE SMASHING EDGE’S SKULL OFF THE ANNOUNCE TABLE!! Edge stumbles backwards, massive impact off that stinging attack by Christian and Captain Charisma spins him right back round AS HE THEN WHIPS EDGE SHOULDER FIRST INTO THE STEEL STEPS!! DEVASTATING SHOT AS EDGE’S RIGHT SHOULDER COLLIDES WITH THE STEEL!!

Christian smiles cockily to the crowd, again pounding his chest and the crowd respond with…cheers? Christian smiles all the more, believing the crowd are on his side but it’s far from it as we then see that Y2J IS ON THE TOP ROPE!! Christian spins round and JERICHO SOARS OFF THE TOP AND TAKES CHRISTIAN DOWN WITH A FLYING CROSSBODY!!! All three men now down and out as this up and down, back and forth encounter continues in that exact fashion. J.R and Coach noting how much this opportunity means to each man tonight.

Jericho picks himself up, dusts himself off and heads right at Captain Charisma, bringing his former Wrestlemania opponent up as Jericho strikes with another ‘WOOOO’ Knife Edge Chop, but Christian battles back with ‘WOOOO’ a Chop of his own!! Jericho and Christian trading Chops…

‘WOOOO’

‘WOOOO’

‘WOOOO’

The crowd loving every minute here as Jericho gains the upper hand, striking too fast and too hard for Christian to keep at it before nailing him with a knee to the gut before Jericho tosses Christian back inside the ring. Jericho follows suit as Christian rises to his feet again, still clutching his chest, a little all over the place as Jericho spins him round and whips him into the corner with Jericho following right at him BUT CHRISTIAN SHOWS GREAT WHEREWITHAL, DODGING IT AND STRIKING WITH A PENDULUM KICK!! Jericho’s head taken off as Christian somehow digs deep there. The leader of his ‘Peeps’ then decides he’s gonna head up top, Jericho’s a little dazed as he spins round, MISSILE DROPKICK FROM CHRISTIAN!! Jericho’s floored as Christian scrambles into a cover…

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NO!! JERICHO AT THE LAST SECOND GETS A SHOULDER UP!!

Christian has a look of disbelief as he remains laid atop of Jericho, looking at the referee, almost questioning the decision with a sigh of relief from the crowd who are still pulling for Y2J in this thing. Christian takes a moment further before he steadily rises, there’s a buzz about the crowd though, Christian hasn’t realised yet BUT EDGE IS BACK INSIDE THE RING AND HE’S LINING CHRISTIAN UP!!

CC rests against the ropes, facing towards the ramp, Edge is lying in wait as Christian kicks the ropes in frustration before he spins round… TO SEE EDGE DARTING AT HIM!! SPEAR!! NO!! CHRISTIAN DODGES IT, EDGE STOPS IN HIS TRACKS, SPINS BACK ROUND, UNPRETTIER!! NO!! EDGE SHOVES CHRISTIAN AWAY!!! CHRISTIAN NOW SPINS ROUND, BOOT TO THE GUT BY EDGE, EDGECUTION!! CONNECTS!! Edge is the one to hurriedly score a cover now, is this it?!?

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Kick out at two and a half!! Edge can’t believe it!!

The Rated R Superstar pounds the mat in frustration, running his hands through his hair as he grits his teeth in anger, the official confirming it was only a two count. Edge’s frustration soon turns to motivation as he seems to click into gear again, deciding not to mope over it as he playfully slaps himself, psyching himself up before heading to the corner, he’s got a Spear in mind again here as Christian slowly gets to his knees, using the ropes to drag himself up, he’s to his feet now AND EDGE COMES STEAMING IN AGAIN…BUT JERICHO COMES FROM OUT OF NOWHERE!! DOUBLE LEG TAKEDOWN AND HE’S GOT EDGE INTO THE WALLS OF JERICHO!! WALLS OF JERICHO LOCKED IN ON MR.MITB!! IS EDGE GONNA TAP?!?

Edge is writhing in pain, his hand dangling…BUT CHRISTIAN FROM BEHIND WITH A ROLL UP ON JERICHO!! HE’S GOT THE TIGHTS!!

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JERICHO KICKS OUT!! Both men are back to their feet as Christian comes running right at Jericho, Double Leg Takedown again, WALLS OF JERICHO TO CHRISTIAN NOW!! THE CROWD ARE ELCTRIC AS JERICHO TURNS CHRISTIAN OVER, THE WALLS LOCKED IN AS CHRISTIAN WRITHES IN PAIN!! Captain Charisma’s hand is up, his title dreams may go up in smoke here as Jericho gives it everything he’s got to earn himself another shot at becoming World Champion. Christian’s face paints the picture, he shakes his head, yelling out ‘NO’ as he fights with everything he’s got BUT JERICHO LEANS ALL THE FURTHER BACK, CHRISTIAN’S ON THE VERGE OF TAPPING HERE!!

He grasps out, desperate for the ropes, clawing, fighting with all he’s got…AND CHRISTIAN SOMEHOW REACHES THE BOTTOM ROPE!! Jericho keeps the hold locked in though, the referee telling him to break it and he finally does, Jericho now the one to show frustration as he shakes his head, wondering just what he’s gotta do to put one of these two away.

Jericho now returns to his feet, hands on hips as he takes a deep breath, calming himself down before making his next move and he heads back over to Edge, turning his attentions towards his long term rival and Y2J drags Edge towards the middle of the ring, grabbing the legs of his opponent, Jericho going for the Walls once more but Edge is fighting it!! Jericho can’t quite turn Edge over and Mr.MITB kicks out at him, digging in with all he’s got as he lashes Jericho away. Y2J stumbles forward towards the corner before spinning back round and again going for the legs of Edge but EDGE WITH AN INSIDE CRADLE!!

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NO!! CHRISTIAN JUST ABOUT BREAKS THE COUNT!!

Captain Charisma saving the day, fighting to pull himself back in this thing with all three men down right now, exhausted after their gruelling efforts thus far. Edge tries to rise, using the ropes to hurl himself up, Christian is to his knees, Jericho likewise. Edge heads right after Jericho, pulling him up and into the corner, right hands from Edge but here comes Christian!! Christian pulls Edge away and clubs him with right hands!!

It’s anybody’s game here as Christian with a boot to the gut, UNPRETTIER!! NO!! JERICHO COMES FROM BEHIND AND CONNECTS WITH A BULLDOG ON CHRISTIAN!! Jericho now runs the ropes, Lionsault…BUT CHRISTIAN ROLLS OUT OF HARM’S WAY WITH JERICHO LANDING ON HIS FEET!! Great athleticism by Je…..BUT JERICHO’S SPEARED IN HALF AS HE LANDS!! EDGE BULLDOZING JERICHO WITH A DEVASTATING SPEAR!! THE CROWD EVEN POP AS THE PACE IS LIGHTNING FAST!! Edge crawls into the cover, this has gotta be all…

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NO!! JERICHO GETS HIS FOOT ON THE BOTTOM ROPE!! EDGE IS SHOCKED!!

Edge closes his eyes, hoping when he opens them again it really was all over but sadly for him that is NOT the case as Jericho has indeed survived, showing great heart to stay in this thing. Edge now begins hammering the mat, punching it, rights and lefts slamming down as he refuses to believe that this is still continuing. The crazy Canadian picks himself up and heads to the corner, he’s hell bent on this thing finishing and finishing fast as he now turns his attentions to Christian who is beginning to find his bearings.

Christian, using the ropes now, manages to pull himself up, Edge is poised, ready to seize the moment, Christian spins round, SPEAR INCOMING!! NO!! Christian with a boot to the gut, DDT!! NO!! Edge wriggles free and whips Christian into the corner, Edge comes storming in and connects with a clothesline!! Christian now perched in the corner and Edge…Edge is hoisting Christian up?? The Money in the Bank winner has Christian sat on the second rope as he strikes with a right hand, repeated rights from Edge now before he positions Christian on the top rope now!!

There’s a real buzz around the crowd as Edge begins to climb up high too and he’s got Christian in position for a superplex!! Edge goes for it…BUT CHRISTIAN FIGHTS IT!! Christian’s fighting with all he’s got…AND SUDDENLY Y2J COMES INTO THE EQUATION!! Jericho sensing an opportunity as Edge keeps Christian in position to go for a ride, there’s anticipation as the Oklahoma faithful rise…TOWER OF DOOM!! HOLY SHIT!! TOWER OF DOOM CONNECTING AS JERICHO POWERBOMBS EDGE…EDGE SUPERPLEXING CHRISTIAN!!

Pandemonium inside the Ford Center as Edge and Christian are laid out cold, Jericho is surfacing however and the crowd are going crazy for the Ayatollah of Rock ‘N Rolla. A ‘Y2J’ chant is deafening as Jericho drags himself towards the lifeless body of Edge, cover…

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NO!!! EDGE ROLLS A SHOULDER!!

THERE’S SHOCK AMONGST JUST ABOUT EVERYONE, INCLUDING CHRIS JERICHO AS EDGE SOMEHOW SURVIVES!!

Jericho’s eyes have widened as he sits there, in a state of shock that Edge kicked out. Not for the first time tonight one of these three men thought this was all over. Jericho though realises that there may be another hope as he soon scampers across towards Christian, hooking a leg, is this Jericho’s moment?

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Kick out at two and a half as Christian is now the one to dig deep and hang in this thing!!

Nobody has a damn clue just who is leaving as the next number one contender, these three men laying it all on the line, the pressure well and truly on now. Jericho picks himself up and he decides he’s gonna bring Christian up with him and he grabs Christian by the back of the head, CODEBREAKER!! NO!! CHRISTIAN SHOVES HIM AWAY!! Jericho again rises to his feet, Christian meets him though , UNPRETTIER!! NO!! JERICHO SHOVES HIM AWAY, CHRISTIAN REBOUNDS OFF THE ROPES, DDT BY JERICHO!! Christian’s floored, cover by Jericho…

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NO!!! CHRISTIAN AT THE LAST SPLIT SECOND SHOWS THE HEART TO STAY IN IT AS HE ROLLS A SHOULDER UP!!

Jericho again looks amazed he hasn’t finished this off as he takes a moment to figure out his next step, he rises to his feet , hands on hips, Christian stirring to his knees now as he crawls towards the ropes, Jericho is eyeing him up…but there’s a buzz amongst the crowd and Jericho senses it, the look on Jericho’s face changing from determination to a look of intrigue as he spins around…TO SEE EDGE STORMING IN!! SPEAR!!! HOLY SHIT, JERICHO CATCHES HIM WITH A CODEBREAKER!! TIMED TO DAMN NEAR PERFECTION AS JERICHO CRACKS EDGE’S HEAD INTO HIS KNEES AS MR MONEY IN THE BANK IS OUT COLD HERE!! Jericho now nips back him, he’s all fired up…BUT HE’S CAUGHT FROM BEHIND BY THE RETURNING CHRISTIAN…UNPRETTIER…CONNECTS!! CHRISTIAN SCORES WITH THE UNPRETTIER!! Christian nto the cover…

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CHRISTIAN IS THE NUMBER ONE CONTENDER!!!

Winner: Christian(18:02)​

The Coach:
THERE IT IS J.R!! CHRISTIAN PULLS IT OFF AGAIN!! CAPTAIN CHARISMA IS HEADED TO THE TOP BABY!!

Jim Ross:
Christian has done it, Christian has pulled one out the bag here tonight and Christian IS the next in line for a shot at the World Heavyweight Title!! One HELL of a match and good god could that have gone any which way!! Jericho, Edge, Christian all laying it on the line tonight, throwing out all the stops to get a shot at the richest prize in the game but it is Christian who walks out of Oklahoma City tonight with a World Title shot in the bag.

Christian rolls out of the ring, having his arm raised by the official, a look of delight, exhaustion, pure emotion from Captain Charisma as he now knows that he will at long last get the World Title shot he feels he so desperately deserves and that he so desperately desires. We get a shot of a fallen Y2J, looking desolate, visibly disappointed that he couldn’t pull it off here tonight before we shift to see Edge who has rolled to the outside and has his head in his hands, gritting his teeth in anger, realising that he couldn’t guarantee himself a double chance at gold. We round off with a shot of Christian atop of the ramp, pounding his chest before looking out to all his ‘Peeps’, clearly overjoyed at picking up yet another huge win here tonight.

We then head over backstage where we see join Todd Grisham not for the first time this evening, Grisham standing by, ready and waiting to speak with us.

Todd Grisham:
Ladies and gentleman, my guest at this time, the Heartbreak Kid, Shawn Michaels.

It’s a rather sombre introduction from Grisham as Michaels appears into shot to a HUGE pop, the Showstopper having his head taped up where he suffered a bloody beating at the hands of the Entity on Raw and Michaels looks in no mood for answering any of Grisham’s questions, remaining still, no facial expression, just a cold stare.

Todd Grisham:
Shawn this past Monday you suffered a severe concussion at the hands of the four men you face here tonight, the Arabian Entity. You were also busted open, leaving you needing over a dozen stitches, Shawn are you in any shape at all to compete out there tonight?

Michaels remains stoic, not moving, not flinching, just staring in the same direction, barely acknowledging Grisham who appears a little freaked out.

Todd Grisham:
Ok, well whether you’re at a hundred percent or not, just what strategy do you have considering the disadvantage you’re at here tonight?

Grisham again holds the mic up to Michaels but HBK is still very distant, this time however he scratches the head injury he sustained this past Monday before wincing a little bit, clear discomfort but again Michaels doesn’t answer.

Todd Grisham:
Uhm, Shawn one last question, how do you believe you can walk out of Oklahoma tonight victorious?

Michaels shifts side to side before sniffing a little bit, looking up at the sky, eyes wide open…

Shawn Michaels:
Faith.

It’s cold, dark and to the point from Shawn Michaels, nothing but that one word before we get a close up shot of Michaels whose head has now gone from the heavens to down below, Michaels simply looking down at his feet as we then head off elsewhere after a rather eerie segment there.

We then head off backstage and not for the first time this evening it’s to the office of Raw’s General Manager, Eric Bischoff. Bischoff looks completely on edge now as we draw closer towards the Entity’s showdown with Shawn Michaels. Bischoff is pacing around his office, hands clasped together before we hear the door open and Bischoff nearly has a heart attack before breathing a sigh of relief as the camera turns…to where we see MR.KENNEDY!! Kennedy is grinning like a Cheshire Cat, gum in his mouth as ever, hands on hips as he eyes up Bischoff.

Mr.Kennedy:
Weren’t expecting me huh?

Eric Bischoff:
Don’t…don’t you knock? And no, I wasn’t expecting you, what do you want?

Bischoff is very dismissive of Kennedy with KK looking a little taken aback.

Mr.Kennedy:
Easy Eric, easy there big guy. What do I want? I think you know by now what I want and I just came by to tell ya, I’d better get it tonight or else you? You’ll be the one who has to pay the price.

Bischoff sighs, clearly frustrated with Kennedy’s persistence again here tonight.

Eric Bischoff:
Look I’m not the one who issued an ‘Open Challenge’ for you here tonight, you did that Ken which means whoever steps out that curtain tonight has got NOTHING to do with me. You asked for and you’ll get whoever it is that comes your way. Whether ya like it or not, that’s not my problem, I gotta lot of bigger things to deal with, more important things to deal with alright?

Kennedy now nods his head, looking pretty pissed off before he looks Bischoff dead in the eye.

Mr.Kennedy:
You got a real nerve don't ya Eric? Sure I issued an ‘Open Challenge’ here tonight but that’s because, incase you forgot, I wasn’t on the FREAKIN' CARD!! Now tell me genius, was that my fault too? Was that my decision? AH AH, no you’d better believe it wasn’t, it was…oh, oh wait a second, whose decision was that huh? Hmmm, lemme think abo…WAIT!! It was YOURS wasn’t it?

Kennedy sarcastically applauds.

Mr.Kennedy:
Well good call boss, real good call. Take your fastest rising star, take this company’s game changer and leave him off the card, well THAT AIN’T GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME!!

Kennedy is in Bischoff’s face now.

Mr.Kennedy:
You might not be able to decide just who exactly answers my challenge tonight but Eric you can have an awful lotta say in it. One last chance Eric, don’t blow it cos BELIEVE ME…you will regret it.

Kennedy delivers a cold stare at the boss with Bischoff simply shaking his head, a look of anger and frustration on the face of the GM with a fired up Kennedy on his hands as we then return back to ringside.​

'Perfection’

The sound of the Platform to Perfection’s music as out step the arrogant young duo of Ken Doane and Nick Nemeth, showing off as ever, Nemeth his physique while Doane simply enters into an exchange with a group of fans, the pair fully confident of becoming the new Tag Champs.

Jim Ross:
The chance they’ve been waiting for ever since they walked through the doors to Monday Night Raw. Ken Doane, Nick Nemeth, the Platform to Perfection and they believe tonight is the night they get what they truly feel they are entitled to and that is the World Tag Team Titles.

The Coach:
They are J.R, ain’t no point in denyin’ it. These two guys have impressed the heck outta me, impressed the heck outta everybody and if anybody wants to say they’re NOT impressed then they’re just jealous of these two and hey, who could really blame ‘em? Look at these two guys, perfection in every sense of the word.

Jim Ross:
Well two guys who haven’t been impressed are the Basham Brothers and they have promised to be here tonight after the Perfectionists refused them a chance to earn their way into this match, a chance the Basham’s believe and hey, I do too, a chance they deserve.

The Coach:
They deserve? Gimme a break, the Basham’s didn’t win at Summerslam, these two guys did and that is why they’re here tonight with the titles on the line, they’re winners cowboy, the Basham’s? Nothin’ but a couple of losers.

‘Yeah we’re comin’ Down’

Out next are the champions and to a pretty strong pop with Bubba and D-Von roaring out, all fired up, looking to prove a point to the challengers here tonight that they are still the team to beat on Monday Night Raw.

Jim Ross:
Well I think you couldn’t be more wrong and I’m pretty sure these two men would agree with me. Bubba Ray and D-Von, one of the greatest Tag teams of all time, they’ve seen it all, they’ve done it all and the Perfectionists may be underestimating the veteran champions, something they may well live to regret Coach.

The Coach:
They aren’t underestimating these two, they’re stating the facts. The Dudleyz were great, sure but that was a long time ago. This is 2005, this is a new era, this is Doane and Nemeth’s time to shine and you’d better believe they’re gonna take it and they’re gonna start off by getting rid of these two old hacks tonight.​

World Tag Team Championships:

The Dudley Boyz© vs The Platform to Perfection

It’s the ever cocky Nick Nemeth that starts things off for the Perfectionists while for the champions it’s D-Von who takes the reigns, the bell ringing and both men immediately circling each other before locking up dead centre of the ring. D-Von’s strength is evident immediately as he forces the smaller Nemeth back towards the corner, the grip of both men remains however before Nemeth shows all his speed, breaking his grip and wriggling around the back of D-Von applying a waistlock. Nemeth’s not in control however as D-Von applies a side headlock and this topsy turvy opening sees D-Von strike with HUGE power as he gets Nemeth up and drops him with a beautiful belly to back suplex!! Dudleyz strike first blood as D-Von crawls into an early cover…

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Kick out at one and a half from Nemeth as D-Von brings himself to his feet, dragging Nemeth up also with a pull of the arm. D-Von takes Nemeth over towards his corner, tossing him towards Bubba as Nemeth crashes against the turnbuckle, D-Von striking with an elbow before tagging in a very eager Bubba. The bigger Dudley comes bursting through the ropes and instantly strikes with boots to the gut of Nemeth before a jab of a right hand, a jab of a left hand, rights and lefts from Bubba here as Nemeth staggers backwards after every shot before Bubba signals for one final blow, firing HIMSELF up, BIONIC ELBOW, NO!! NEMETH DUCKS IT AND CATCHES BUBBA FROM BEHIND WITH A NECKBREAKER!! Nemeth crawls across and into a cover…

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Kick out at two from Bubba!! Early covers for both teams as Nemeth is now the one to gain control, bringing himself to his feet, Bubba still floored and Nemeth begins to stomp the crap out of his fallen opponent, strikes from head to toe on Bubba with Nemeth now pausing…before flaunting his physique to the crowd which of course brings a chorus of boos from the Oklahoma faithful. Nemeth takes it in his stride saying ‘Jealousy’s a terrible thing’ before he drops a big elbow right into the chest of Bubba. Nemeth quickly shoots back up before firing another elbow to the chest, the speed of Nemeth is evident as he AGAIN quickly rises and AGAIN drops another stiff elbow right into Bubba’s chest before yelling ‘JUST TOO DAMN GOOD’ and he crawls into another cover, 1…2…kick out once more at two from Bubba.

Nemeth glares in the direction of the referee, clearly thinking that should’ve been three before he picks himself up and heads over to his corner, tagging in Ken Doane for the first time as Doane slowly steps through the ropes, the arrogance of both men evident as they feel Bubba’s at their peril right now. Doane circles the fallen big man, allowing Bubba to get to his knees before Doane strikes with a full on kick to the gut!! Bubba immediately tumbles again but Doane rushes right over to him and drags him up, striking with another boot that has Bubba doubled over, Irish whip by Doane, Bubba rebounds and Doane swings for a clothesline, Bubba ducks it, runs through and rebounds once again taking Doane down with a powerful shoulder tackle!!

Bubba rises back to his feet, Doane also slowly gets to his feet, in some discomfort though following that high impact and he heads towards Bubba but Bubba strikes with a big right hand, flurry of rights now from Bubba as Doane is backed up towards the ropes. Irish whip now by Bubba and Doane rebounds right into a FLAPJACK FROM BUBBA!! Huge impact and Bubba drops down into a cover…

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Kick out at two and a quarter!! The crowd groan, thinking that might’ve been curtains for Doane as Bubba comes within a whisker of taking it. Doane scrambles around on the mat, clutching his lower back which appears to be troubling him off of that impact as we see Bubba rising to his feet and he heads straight back after the arrogant perfectionist. Bubba brings Doane to his feet before delivering some trash talk telling Doane ‘Let’s see how perfect you are now’ before another highly powerful Irish whip as Doane goes crashing into the corner, his lower back again taking a blow as Bubba now spins round and comes charging right at Doane, a MASSIVE BODY AVALANCHE FROM BUBBA!! DOANE ENGULFED BY THE ENORMOUS SIZE OF BUBBA!!

Doane drops to the mat, the crowd going crazy as Bubba lets out a roar right back to them before the big man begins to scale up to the top rope!! Bubba slowly rises to the top, looking around the crowd who are on their feet BEFORE WE SEE NICK NEMETH EDGING OVER BUBBA’S WAY!! Bubba catches him out the corner of his eye and words are exchanged, the referee intervening and telling Nemeth to get back in his corner with Nemeth obliging but not after a war of words with one half of the Tag Champs. Bubba now sets himself BUT DOANE COMES STEAMING IN AND KNOCKS BUBBA OFF THE TOP, THE BIG MAN CRASHING TO THE OUTSIDE AS NEMETH’S TACTICS WORK TO PERFECTION!!(Pardon the pun)

Bubba’s taken a hefty fall on the outside and is lying in some discomfort as we get a shot of a wry smile on the face of Nick Nemeth who knows his delaying of Bubba worked a treat for his partner with Doane now taking a small breather, resting against the turnbuckle before he hops out the ring and drops to the outside, Bubba in his sights with D-Von looking down on his partner, a look of worry etched on his face. Doane eyes up Bubba, choosing not to strike right away, instead allowing Bubba to get to his knees before Doane pulls him up and strikes with a boot to the gut before DOANE CRASHES BUBBA’S SKULL OFF THE BARRICADE!!

Bubba stumbles away, holding his face following that hard impact but Doane grabs him once again and this time SMASHES BUBBA FACE FIRST INTO THE RINGPOST!! Bubba again stumbles away before dropping to the outside as Nemeth yells at his partner to ‘GET ‘IM IN HERE KEN’ and Doane rushes to do so with the officials countout at seven. He drags Bubba up before tossing him inside the squared circle and Doane immediately rolls the big man over into a cover…

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Kick out at two to a decent pop with Doane looking a little frustrated by that and he AGAIN goes for a cover, this time hooking the leg…

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Kick out again at two as Doane pounds the mat, J.R playing up the fact that the Perfectionists are desperate to finish this off and achieve their goal of becoming Tag Team Champions tonight. Doane then lets out a yell, trying to reiterate to everybody, perhaps including himself that ‘TONIGHT IS OUR NIGHT’ before he huffs off and tags in Nemeth once more who is quickly in and looks eager to go as he drops down and applies a chinlock on the big man, looking to keep Bubba grounded. We get a shot of D-Von Dudley once more who still looks concerned as his partner remains floored, PTP cruising right now as Nemeth cinches in the hold tight.

The crowd begin trying to rally the fan favourite, D-Von joining in as he stomps his feet on the apron, the crowd clapping as Bubba grasps thin air, looking, searching, clawing at any escape route as Nemeth demands for them to ‘Quit it’ but the rallying seems to be inspiring Bubba as he battles to one knee. Nemeth still has it locked in but Bubba is using all his strength to try and find an escape route as he digs an elbow in on Nemeth but the plucky challenger keeps the hold on as Bubba somehow fights to both feet!!

The crowd are cheering as Nemeth shakes his head, looking worried now, still keeping the hold in as BUBBA TAKES HIM DOWN WITH A BACK DROP!! Finally the hold is released as Bubba shows great strength to fight up and back into this thing, both men down with that taking a lot out of both champion and challenger. We see Ken Doane trying to will Nemeth over towards him for a tag, D-Von likewise is rooting for Bubba, desperate for his partner to tag him into this thing as Bubba drags himself across, Nemeth is fighting too however, who will make the tag first? Nemeth is within arm’s reach now as Doane holds out a hand…BUT WE SEE BUBBA MAKE THE TAG FIRST AND HERE COMES D-VON!!

D-Von comes roaring in to a big pop as Nemeth tags Doane in and Doane flies at D-Von and gets sent flying with a right hand!! The crowd are on their feet as D-Von hammers away at Doane, big right hand, Doane’s knocked down, back to his feet but knocked down again, D-Von building momentum as Doane rises once more, D-Von running the ropes and comes steaming in BUT DOANE CATCHES HIM WITH A PICTURE PERFECT DROPKICK!!

The life is sucked out the arena as D-Von’s momentum is halted by that dropkick and the balance shifts the way of the challengers once more with Doane quickly getting over into a cover, 1…2…kick out at two from D-Von as Doane huffs and puffs a little bit. Doane gets to his feet, hands on hips for a moment before he stomps his foot in frustration, Nemeth telling him to go back to him and Doane does just that BUT D-VON FROM OUT OF NOWHERE WITH AN INSIDE CRADLE!! DOANE’S IN TROUBLE HERE!!

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NO!! NEMETH BREAKS THE COUNT!!

The crowd thought he had it, D-Von thought he had it too and were it not for Nick Nemeth he may well have done!! Nemeth now with boots to D-Von BUT HERE COMES BUBBA!! BUBBA COMES STORMING IN AND ABSOLUTELY DROPS NEMETH WITH A RIGHT HAND!! Nemeth gets back to his feet but Bubba is rolling here, big time rights to a helpless Nemeth. Irish whip now by Bubba, Nemeth holds on and BUBBA CLOTHESLINES HIM UP AND OVER THE TOP!!

Bubba lets out a roar to the crowd BUT WE SEE KEN DOANE COME FROM BEHIND AND HURL BUBBA OVER THE TOP!! Both Bubba and Nemeth taking the fall as Doane shifts back round and focuses back on D-Von but D-Von is ready and waiting, boot to the gut, BIG TIME Vertical Suplex!! NO!! DOANE ROLLS ROUND THE BACK OF D-VON!! CATCHES HIM FROM BEHIND, REVERSE DDT!! NO!! D-VON MANAGES TO WRIGGLE FREE!! D-Von now from behind, spins Doane round, boot to the gut, JUMPING DDT FROM D-VON!! WOW!! Cover by the champion…

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NO!! DOANE KICKS OUT AT THE DEATH!!

D-Von and the sold out Oklahoma crowd can’t believe it as Doane survives and D-Von, after a moment regrouping, decides he’s gonna head up high!! The anticipation again rises as D-Von climbs to the top, Doane laid out on the mat, D-Von sets himself now, looking around the arena…BUT WE SEE NICK NEMETH NOW ON THE APRON AND NEMETH’S GRABBED THE LEG OF D-VON!! D-Von’s kicking out at Nemeth, fighting to shrug him off but Nemeth’s holding on strong. Nemeth just won’t let go before we see BUBBA REAPPEAR!! BUBBA NOW GRABSNEMETH BY THE LEG AND PULLS HIM DOWN!! Nemeth’s grip finally loosens as D-Von now steadies himself, ELBOW OFF THE TOP TO DOANE!! NOBODY HOME!! DOANE WAS PLAYING POSSUM!!

Doane quickly zips up to his feet as we see Bubba and Nemeth now fighting on the outside, THUMB TO THE EYE BY NEMETH!! HE SPINS BUBBA ROUND, ZIG ZAG ON THE OUTSIDE, NO!! BUBBA TOSSES HIM ASIDE WITH INCREDIBLE STRENGTH!!! But inside the ring, Doane is headed up high, D-Von laid out, he’s going for the Sky high Leg Drop!! Will he conn…….

‘WHIPS AND CHAINS’

WHAT THE HELL?!? Doane suddenly stops as he looks up the ramp to see that they are here!! THE BASHAM BROTHERS STICKING TO THEIR WORD ARE HERE AND THEY LOOK HELL BENT ON COSTING THE PERFECTIONISTS!! Doane drops down from the top and heads to the ropes, he’s got his arms outstretched asking ‘WHAT DO YOU WANT? WHAT ARE YOU DOIN’ HERE? THIS IS OUR NIGHT!’.

The Bashams are simply standing on the ramp smiling at Doane with Doug clapping, seemingly mouthing ‘Impressive’ before we see Danny signal for Doane to turn around. Doane looks confused as hell but he does turn round RIGHT INTO THE PATH OF D-VON!! Boot to the gut, Irish whip, Bubba back beside his partner as Doane rebounds, WHAT GOES UP….MUST COME DOWN, 3D TO DOANE!! D-Von crawls into the cover as Nemeth hops onto the apron BUT BUBBA SENDS HIM SOARING WITH A RIGHT HAND!! Referee begins a count…


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DUDLEYZ RETAIN!!

Winners and STILL World Tag Team Champions: The Dudley Boyz(11:14)​

The Coach:
NO!! THAT DID NOT JUST HAPPEN!! THE BASHAM BROTHERS JUST SCREWED DOANE AND NEMETH!! THE DUDLEYZ CHEATED!!

Jim Ross:
The Dudleyz didn’t do a damn thing wrong Coach!! Perhaps the Platform to Perfection should have provided the platform for the Bashams to get the title opportunity they deserved. Maybe then, maybe then this wouldn’t have happened.

The Coach:
They don’t deserve a damn thing, ESPECIALLY not after what they’ve done here tonight. They should be fired J.R and as for the Dudleyz? Well they need to take a long, hard look in the mirror if they think they earned that victory tonight.

Nemeth is now inside the ring with Doane, both men struggling to come to terms with what just happened, Nemeth’s face says it all, he looks absolutely shell shocked while Doane dusts himself down after the 3D before we get a shot of a smirking Basham Brothers, clearly delighted with their work here tonight, sticking to their promise in costing the PTP the titles they so desperately desired. We then get a shot of the champions who are backing up the ramp, titles in hand and clearly overjoyed that they’ve managed to remain on top of the Tag ranks here in the WWE tonight.

We then head off backstage where we see Raw’s beautiful interviewer, Maria who is standing by, broad smile and all, ready to interrogate some poor soul.

Maria:
Hi!! It’s me, Maria and I’m joined at this time by the World Heavyweight Champion, Batista!!

The Animal enters the scene to a HUGE pop, a look of real intensity on his face as he’s all set to compete later on tonight against his bitter rival, the Big Red Machine, Kane!

Maria:
Batista we saw just how brutal things have got between you and Kane this past Monday on Raw when you Batistabombed him off the stage, taking yourself down with it. Just how are you feeling six days on?

Batista huffs a little bit.

Batista:
Things have got brutal between me and Kane, you’re right but if you think what happened on Raw was gonna stop me comin’ here tonight and kicking Kane’s ass all over again then you’d better think again.

Strong pop for the champion who appears to be all business here tonight.

Batista:
There’s no point in me denyin’ that I’m not a hundred percent here tonight, what happened Monday night? Yeah it took a lot outta me but Maria I know it took even more outta Kane. If I’m hurtin’ here tonight, I can only imagine what Kane’s feelin’.

Batista smirks at that, a bit of a twisted side to the Animal being shown.

Batista:
And tonight, there’s not gonna be anywhere for him to turn, nowhere for him to run, nowhere for him to hide. Face to face, man to man, Animal versus Monster and all the pain he’s feelin’ right now will be nothin’ compared to what he feels out there tonight.

Another solid pop, Tista hell bent on inflicting more punishment on the Big Red Machine tonight.

Batista:
We’ve been through it all, we’ve fought off the stage, through the crowd, through the entire arena, to hell and back but tonight we settle this thing once and for all. Tonight we see just who belongs at the top of the food chain around here and I’m willing to bet…it’s gonna be me.

Tista points his thumbs at himself before continuing.

Batista:
I’ve worked too damn hard to get to this point, to win this title just to let it all slip away. This kinda match isn’t gonna break me, I’ve been through too much to get here, to get to the top, to be the man, I can’t just throw that all away in one night. Tonight’s a challenge, but it’s the kinda challenge that I thrive on, the kinda challenge I enjoy and the kinda challenge that I will... overcome.

Tista then heads over, a decent pop as the champ walks away, fully focused despite his injuries as he prepares himself for his title showdown in our main event. We then head back to ringside to join J.R and Coach…

Jim Ross:
Statement made from the World Champion right there but folks coming up next is, well it’s one you won’t wanna miss. For months Shawn Michaels has been under the power of Eric Bischoff but the night after Summerslam, Shawn Michaels living hell took a whole new turn for the worse, let’s take a look.​

*Video Package*

We begin with Eric Bischoff stood in the middle of the ring, a look of anger and frustration on the boss’ face.

Eric Bischoff: Last night was supposed to be the night where Eric Bischoff’s vision of Monday Night Raw at long last came to fruition.

We then get a shot of Batista and Kane face to face in the ring, a close up shot of the World Title then shown.

Eric Bischoff: Last night didn’t go to plan because of one man and one…man…only. Last night didn’t go to plan…because of Shawn Michaels.

We then get a shot of Shawn Michaels in his referee shirt, a smirk on the Heartbreak Kid’s face before we see Michaels handing Batista the World Title.

Eric Bischoff: Summerslam was the very last time you get one over on me, the very last time ANYBODY…gets one over on me. By the time tonight is over and done with I guarantee…that Shawn Michaels is gonna realise first hand why you do NOT…cross…the boss.

We then head to the main event that evening on Raw as Shawn Michaels went one on one with Kane as we’re shown the shocking conclusion to the contest as out storms the Arabian Entity, rushing the ring and heinously assaulting the Showstopper, including the use of a Steel Chair to bust open Bischoff’s ‘Personal Employee’.

Jim Ross: WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?! THE ARABIAN ENTITY AMBUSHING SHAWN MICHAELS!! WAS THIS...WAS THIS ALL A DAMN SET UP?!

We then fast forward one week to the next edition of Raw and to Muhammad Hassan and his Arabian Entity stood in the ring, addressing their ambush on Michaels.

Muhammad Hassan: Last week you people witnessed only the beginning of what’s to come for Shawn Michaels and you witnessed only the beginning of what’s to come…for the Arabian Entity.

Quick fire images flash across the screen including the Punjabi Plunge from The Great Khali as well as the 450 Splash/Leg Drop combo from Dutt and Daivari before the vicious Camel Clutch from Hassan.

Muhammad Hassan: Last week Shawn Michaels claimed that he had faith. He told the world that he had faith that no matter what came his way, he would get through it and he would overcome it. He stated that he had faith that whenever it may be, eventually he’ll get past his whole ordeal with Eric Bischoff. But it’s that word that I took exception to, that word Shawn liked to bring up so very much…faith. And that? That’s where I and Shawn DID share one, just one similarity because not all that long ago I too…had faith.

We then see shots of the scenes from the 9/11 horror with people crying, images of the scene of the despicable act.

Muhammad Hassan: I walked out onto the streets and I saw the sadness in people’s eyes but I also saw the fire in them too. The determination to not let them beat us. But... when I tried to do my part, when I turned up to local meetings in my community about the fight against terror, something…something just…it didn’t feel right.

We see shots of Arabian men being questioned by cops before returning to Hassan who is shaking his head.

Muhammad Hassan: Why was that huh? It was because of the colour of my skin. You people looked down on me because of the colour…of…my…skin. Do you know? Do you know how that made me feel? That hurt like hell believe me because I just like you people am an AMERICAN CITIZEN!! I am an Arab American and I am DAMN PROUD TO BE ONE!! But here we are, four years on and you people NOW CHOOSE TO BOO ME!!

We then hear a chorus of ‘USA, USA’ chants.

Muhammad Hassan: And from that day on, I lost all faith in this country, I lost all faith in you people, I lost all faith… entirely. Which is why last week...it hit a nerve, it really got to me when Shawn Michaels told the world his faith was gonna see him through this. Well Shawn I got news for ya…faith will not get you through anything.

A shot of Michaels mouthing the word ‘Faith’ in an interview, over and over again the word ‘faith’ is repeated.

Muhammad Hassan: That feeling of being forced out the door is the exact same feeling you’re gonna experience Shawn. Eric Bischoff is not gonna fire you, no. But he’s gonna take great pride, we’re all gonna take great pride in forcing you…to walk away. I had that same feeling Shawn, people turned their back on me, this country turned it’s back on me and it forced me… out of its society. My faith was gone, my life was gone and now? I’m gonna force you out Shawn, I’m gonna take your faith, I’m gonna take your life away from you and I’m gonna show you that faith is NOTHING… but wishful thinking.

A shot once again of a fallen Showstopper, busted open before a clear image of the Entity stood together united but there’s then static playing in the background before things shift gear and we see Shawn Michaels crouched down, looking directly into the camera.

Shawn Michaels: I’ve been targeted because…I’ve been targeted because I have...I have faith. But as much as they want to punish me, as much as they want to change me, as much as they want me to jump on their bandwagon, I will never, let me repeat…I…will…NEVER…lose my beliefs. I will NEVER…lose faith.

We see Michaels winning his first WWE Championship, the look of sheer joy in his eyes.

Shawn Michaels: At Unforgiven, I gotta take on four men, I gotta take them on and I gotta beat ‘em one…by…one. The odds are against me, there’s no way out, four of them…one of me, it's beyond reason…to believe…isn’t it?

Another flicker of the Entity appears, J.R commentary playing over it.

Jim Ross: CAN ANYBODY STOP THESE FOUR MEN?!?

Shawn Michaels: No, no it isn’t because I DO believe, it’s not ‘beyond reason’. I will get outta this whole thing, don’t know when, don’t know where, don’t know how but believe me…I will. Well..well how do ya know that Shawn? How do ya…how do ya figure that out huh? Simple. I…have…faith and so far…so good.

We then see the chilling image of Michaels rising to his feet before walking away, the camera panning back to see a Steel chair, dented and laid flat beside the four fallen bodies of the Arabian Entity, Michaels having seen them off.

Eric Bischoff: How STUPID can Shawn Michaels get? The Entity…they’re already out to get him this Sunday, they know what’s at stake for them, the chance to FINISH…the Heartbreak Kid, they don’t need any extra motivation but…but what does Shawn do? He gives it straight to ‘em.

We then get footage from this past Monday on Raw as the Entity use the numbers game to take Michaels down from behind, beginning their pack of wolves like mentality in tearing Michaels apart. More action is shown from the conclusion to Raw where we see the Entity continuing their beatdown on Michaels as we see Khali unhooking the turnbuckle before they SMASH Michaels skull off of it, the Showstopper dropping like a fly.

Jim Ross: WE NEED A DAMN MEDIC OUT HERE!! MICHAELS IS BUSTED OPEN AND I DON’T THINK THESE S.O.B’S ARE GONNA STOP!!

The Coach: Shawn Michaels is paying for his sins!!

The beatdown continues, we see pretty much all of it as the sick individual that he is pulls out a pair of handcuffs, the rest of the Entity grabbing the ring bell from by the announce desk before THEY SMASH MICHAELS IN THE SKULL WITH IT!! The Showstopper handcuffed to the ropes, absolutely defenceless.

The Coach: HE’S DEAD J.R!!

The final image we see is the Entity standing tall, Michaels broken, beaten and bloodied at the hands of these twisted men before another shot of a smirking Eric Bischoff watching on at the damage done to his very own ‘Personal Employee’.

Eric Bischoff: No matter how much heart, how much determination, how much faith he possesses, NONE OF IT… is gonna save him. What Shawn’s done to me, what he’s put me through, it’s gonna end this Sunday night and it’s gonna be because of what I to him. Because I will force him out the door, I will make him walk away from the one thing he loves most in this world, that after EVERYTHING HE’S PUT ME THROUGH…I…Eric Bischoff end…his…career.

Bischoff beaming, the Entity standing tall, joining their boss in celebration as Michaels is laid out cold, blood pouring down his face is the final shot ahead of this mammoth showdown.

*End Video Package*

'Arab America’

There’s an absolute bucket load of heat that greets the sound of the Arabian Entity’s music as out plod the quarter, Muhammad Hassan front and center as he basks in the boos, looking up at the heavens and mouthing something. Daivari and Dutt are either side of their leader, pointing at the crowd and getting involved in some heated exchanges as they work their way down the ramp, the menacing presence of The Great Khali standing behind them all.

Jim Ross:
The actions of these four men over recent weeks have been, well, they’ve been just despicable. The Arabian Entity have been hell bent on ending the career of Shawn Michaels, they don’t wanna physically end him, they wanna mentally put Shawn Michaels down. These four men, along with Eric Bischoff wanna make Shawn Michaels walk away and after their actions this past Monday night, they may not be far off.

The Coach:
What they did this past Monday was incredible J.R. It was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever witnessed and I take my hat off to the mastermind behind it all, Muhammad Hassan, the man can do no wrong.

Jim Ross:
Are you kidding me? The actions of these men, Hassan in particular have been as vile, as disgusting as I’ve ever seen in the WWE and you wanna say he can ‘do no wrong’?

The Coach:
After what Shawn Michaels has put Eric Bischoff through, it’s the very least he deserves. His actions were vile, his were disgusting and as far as I’m concerned he’s just getting a taste of his own medicine.

Hassan and his men wait inside the ring, Hassan is pacing as he motions for Michaels to come on down before we hear that ever familiar sound…

‘Sexy Boy’

And it’s the music of the man himself, the Heartbreak Kid, the Showstopper, Shawn Michaels who very slowly, very gingerly heads down to ringside, his head is plastered up where he was busted open this past Monday on Raw and he does not for one moment take his eyes off the four men that await him. There’s no trademark pose, there’s no interaction, there’s no emotion whatsoever as Michaels is all about business tonight.

Jim Ross:
The look on the face of Shawn Michaels says it all. Michaels had to have stitches into that injured head, where he was busted open at the hands of these men. Shawn Michaels suffered a concussion, he suffered a beating but tonight he is here, he is standing and he is coming to not just fight but he is coming to BEAT the Entity.

The Coach:
If that’s what he’s comin’ for then he may as well just turn around and head on home cos it just ain’t happenin’. J.R I gotta wonder just how bad that concussion was if he thinks for one split second that he can walk outta Oklahoma with his hand raised in victory. I just don’t see it.

Four on One Handicap Match:
(Shawn Michaels must eliminate all four members of the Entity to win)

The Arabian Entity vs Shawn Michaels

The crowd is absolutely RED HOT for this one, firmly on the side of Shawn Michaels as he stands in one corner, the Entity united together in the other as Hassan, Khali and Daivari exit the ring, not taking their eyes off Michaels whilst it’s Sonjay Dutt who stands inside the ring, ready to be the first of his team to try and put an end to the Heartbreak Kid. The bell rings and there’s a mixture of chants, ‘HBK’ followed up by some with loud roars of ‘USA, USA’ but it doesn’t phase either Michaels or Dutt who eye up one another, Michaels slowly glancing in the direction of the other three Entity members before setting his sights on Dutt once more and the two men begin to circle the ring.

Michaels and Dutt then meet in the middle of the ring, locking up and Michaels forces Dutt back, using his size advantage, which is rare for the Showstopper before striking with a boot to the gut of Dutt. Right hands now by Michaels, repeated strikes as HBK starts this one off with a real purpose. Irish whip now by Michaels, Dutt rebounding and he’s caught firmly in the head with the point of Michaels elbow, sending him down to the mat as the crowd give Shawn a nice early pop. Dutt’s quickly back up but Michaels is likewise in going back after him as he takes the smallest Entity member over towards the corner and Michaels strikes with a STINGING knife edge chop across the chest, not for the first time tonight the ‘WOOOO’s’ come raining in as Michaels takes it to Dutt with devastating chops, the Entity member wincing in clear pain.

Michaels now switches gear with a boot to the mid section before another Irish whip, Dutt reverses it though and Michaels crashes into the corner, Dutt comes steaming in but Michaels senses it coming and scores with a back body drop…Dutt though uses all his athleticism to stay on his feet on the apron!! Michaels spins round and Dutt pulls himself up and SOARS OVER THE ROPES AND RIGHT OVER MICHAELS INTO A SUNSET FLIP…

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Michaels with a kick out as Dutt scores the first near fall of this thing!!

Both men are quickly back up and Dutt swings for Shawn, Michaels ducking it, Dutt spins round and Michaels throws a right but Dutt ducks this one and runs the ropes, he rebounds, Michaels scoops him up on return BUT DUTT COUNTERS INTO A TEXTBOOK HURRICANRANA AND MICHAELS IS FLOORED!! Dutt picks himself up and immediately shifts, transitioning from the high flying style into a more aggressive one as he stomps the hell out of Michaels, stiff kicks right to the skull with J.R pointing out that the Entity will target Michaels’ head after the concussion he sustained this past Monday as well as the stitches.

Dutt continues with fast paced, striking kicks before he efficiently drags Michaels over towards the Entity corner where he now tags in the monstrous seven foot plus, Great Khali who towers over the ropes and gives a menacing look to the fallen Showstopper as the crowd anticipate that business could be about to pick up here.

Khali paces around the ring, seemingly in no apparent rush to tend to Michaels, instead simply eyeing him up, allowing Michaels to get to his knees before he slowly heads towards him. Khali allows Michaels to rise, standing right in front of him as the giant grabs him by the back of the head, Michaels looking up at him, a little dazed, the head injury perhaps effecting him already here…BUT MICHAELS SHOWS ALL HIS FIGHT AND STRIKES WITH A RIGHT HAND!!

Michaels trying to take it to Khali here, right hand followed by another, Michaels trying to throw everything at the big man BEFORE KHALI SENDS HIM TUMBLING WITH A DEVASTATING CHOP ACROSS THE SKULL!! Michaels is flatlined as Khali shows his incredible strength, one chop almost knocking Michaels out cold as Khali shakes off the cobwebs and proceeds now to stick his gargantuan boot into the face of Michaels, the referee warning Khali of a disqualification, giving him til the count of five as Michaels squirms to escape but it’s no use, Khali eventually letting up at the count of four as Michaels is already in a perilous position in this contest.

Khali heads away from Michaels before slowly plodding right back over to him as the boos continue before the big man drags Michaels to his feet, the pace is almost painful to watch but it’s just the way Khali and the Entity would like it as the giant toys with Shawn. Khali pulls Michaels up by the hair, looking at him with dangerous intentions in mind before a boot to Michaels gut doubles the former World Champion over. Khali now whipping Michaels across the ring with Shawn flying back AND KHALI TAKES HIS DAMN HEAD OFF WITH A BIG BOOT!!

Michaels may be out cold here as he lay sprawled out on the mat, the boos flooding in for Khali who whips his hair back before letting out a roar, this contest turning very ugly, very quickly for Shawn Michaels right now. We then see Khali turn around to his corner where we see Muhammad Hassan yelling, itching to get his way into his contest, he wants to be the one to tear Michaels apart, to end him here tonight!! Khali now trickles over towards him, tagging the Entity leader in and the Ford Center ERUPTS with boos as Hassan storms through the ropes and into the ring, Dutt and Daivari applauding their leader as he drops down to the mat and begins to pummel Michaels with some ferocious right hands!!

Hassan is really going to town here, it’s persistent, relentless right hands to the wound Michaels sustained this past Monday night. Hassan though quickly rises to his feet as he yells at this partisan crowd to ‘SHUT YOUR MOUTHS AND SHOW ME SOME RESPECT’ which of course draws even LOUDER boos before Hassan drops back down to one knee and continues to hammer away on Michaels, pinpointing that head injury as HBK appears to well and truly be in no man’s land…AND WE NOW SEE THAT SHAWN’S HEAD HAS BEEN BUSTED OPEN ONCE AGAIN!! J.R pointing out that the stitches Michaels received have been the target area all match and that this pack of wolves have hit the jackpot.

Hassan smells blood now(quite literally) and he drags Michaels slowly to his feet before striking with another right hand as Michaels almost drops again, Hassan keeping him up however as the blood trickles down Michaels face, the crowd beginning to realise now that the Showstopper may well have been stopped already. Hassan now whips Michaels into the corner, HBK’s back crashing in as Hassan comes full steam ahead and connects with a corner clothesline as Michaels stumbles out of the corner, Hassan hoisting himself up onto the second rope before rising to the top as Michaels spins round and HASSAN FLIES OFF THE TOP, DOUBLE AXE HANDLE BUT MICHAELS WITH A BOOT TO THE GUT!!

Hope for Michaels yet here as the crowd show signs of life towards their hero. Michaels now with right hands, looking in real trouble still but he fights through, Hassan forced back towards the ropes as Michaels goes for an Irish whip, Hassan rebounds…Michaels with a back body drop, CONNECTING!!

Michaels showing all his usual heart and guts, the will to win evident inside the Heartbreak Kid as Hassan rises, the Entity’s leader in a little trouble of his own right now as Michaels pounces, right hands flying before a boot to the gut, Michaels grabs a hold of Hassan, Suplex incoming!! NO!! Hassan wriggles out of it, fighting off of Michaels before Hassan PACES TOWARDS HIS CORNER, HE’S HAD ENOUGH!! HASSAN TAGS IN DAIVARI TO THE FURY OF THE CROWD!!

Hassan wanting nothing to with a rejuvenated Shawn Michaels here with Daivari, the now legal man, looking a little confused before slowly stepping foot through the ropes as we get a shot of Shawn Michaels smirking. Perhaps Michaels knows that he’s now got the momentum, he’s got under Hassan’s skin and he’s now got a group who he believes he can take down. Daivari eyes up Michaels very tentatively, Michaels not pressing the issue, allowing Daivari to come into this thing as we get a glimpse of Hassan on the outside shaking his head, clearly not expecting what he just received. The two men inside the ring then begin to circle, it’s as if the match has only just gotten underway as Michaels wipes a spot of blood away that’s trickling down his face.

Daivari then charges at Shawn, deciding enough’s enough and it costs him as Michaels scores with a beautiful arm drag, Daivari quickly up and it’s another arm drag that greets the Entity member. Daivari quickly back up again and goes for a boot…but this time Michaels with a DRAGON SCREW!! Daivari’s sprawled out on the mat as the crowd give a big pop, Michaels beginning to feel it here as he pumps up the fans all the more.

Daivari rises again, Michaels enjoying his best spell in the match so far as we see a look of worry on the face of Muhammad Hassan. Daivari falls right into Michaels path once again…Atomic drop by Shawn who runs the ropes, Daivari ducks it, Shawn runs through, rebounds, FLYING FOREARM SMASH…AND MICHAELS NIPS RIGHT BACK UP!! THE HEARTBREAK KID HAS FOUND A SECOND WIND HERE!! Michaels now heads to the corner…and BEGINS TO TUNE UP THE BAND!! The Oklahoma faithful are all fired up as Michaels stomps his foot on the mat but we see The Great Khali step over the ropes, Khali coming to the aid of Daivari but the referee is ordering him back, cutting the big man off from Michaels as we then see SONJAY DUTT RACE AROUND THE APRON…BUT MICHAELS DECKS HIM WITH A RIGHT HAND AND DUTT GOES SPIRALLING DOWN TO THE OUTSIDE!!

Michaels looks on as Khali is still dealing with the referee…BUT HASSAN COMES FROM NOWHERE AND GRABS HBK BY THE BACK OF THE NECK BEFORE SLAMMING HIM THROAT FIRST DOWN INTO THE ROPES!! The numbers game playing right into the Entity’s hands as Hassan steps back to his corner, Khali now doing likewise after much persistence from the referee as Daivari now assumes control.

The second of the Entity’s Cruiserweights gets to his feet and begins to hammer away on Michaels with repeated boots to the skull, Michaels momentum completely gone and perhaps that head wound is now to be targeted once more. Daivari then taunts the crowd, stretching his arms out wide and soaking in all the heat, following that up in putting another boot right in to the skull of the Showstopper…before he decides he’s gonna head up high!! Daivari, more accustomed to high risk moves than Hassan or Khali, only second to Dutt in the group now slowly steadies himself up high, poised and primed for Michaels to turn around. The Heartbreak Kid is a little all over the place, the head injury most certainly affecting him again as he spins round…AND DAIVARI COMES FLYING OFF THE TOP…BUT HAS HIS HEAD DAMN NEAR KICKED OFF HIS SHOULDERS WITH A DOSE OF SWEET CHIN MUSIC!! The crowd are going absolutely INSANE!!! Michaels crawls into a cover…

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DAIVARI IS ELMINATED, MICHAELS STRIKES THE FIRST BLOW!!

Eliminated: Daivari(8:20)

Michaels stays floored, trying to catch his breath, take a breather in this thing but he’s given no time at all to rest as immediately Sonjay Dutt enters the scene and begins to stomp away on the fallen Michaels!! J.R tells us that Hassan pulled Dutt up during that Sweet Chin Music, readying him, preparing him to enter straight away, to be the next man to try and take Michaels down and there’s a real venom, a real bite about Dutt, taking out his frustrations after Michaels sent him tumbling to the outside. Dutt continues stomping away, stiff boots all across Michaels body before the speed of Dutt shows as he sprints across the ring, running the ropes before he drops a sharp elbow right into the heart of Michaels. Quickly Dutt’s back up as he runs the opposite side of the ring, rebounds and AGAIN drops a fierce elbow right into the chest of the Heartbreak Kid before Dutt hooks a leg for a cover…

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Kick out at two from Michaels as Dutt grits his teeth in frustration before heading right back to the job at hand as he draws Michaels to his feet. Dutt strikes, forearm to the face, followed up by another before an Irish whip, Michaels reverses, Dutt rebounds and Michaels goes for a Sidewalk Slam…BUT DUTT COUNTERS INTO AN INCREDIBLE SATTELITE DDT!! WOW!!

Breathtaking move from Sonjay Dutt as Michaels is taken down in some style, Hassan applauding on the apron, Dutt giving him a look before seemingly mouthing ‘Should I pin him?’, only for Hassan to simply shake his head in disapprovement, he wants Michaels to SUFFER tonight before Hassan then points to the top rope!! Dutt nods his head, he knows what his leader wants here and he scales up high, Michaels completely laid out following that incredible move as Dutt slowly climbs, the fans rising to their feet, anticipation high as they worry just what Shawn Michaels is about to be on the receiving end of. Dutt has his back to Michaels, he’s facing the fans as he looks around at them, a wry little smile on Dutt’s face, what the hell is he gon…OH DUTT WITH A HINDU PRESS OFF THE TOP…BUT MICHAELS GETS HIS KNEES UP AND DUTT TAKES THE KNEES RIGHT INTO HIS MID SECTION!!

Dutt’s high risk backfires as Michaels sensed it coming, getting the knees up as Dutt now toils in pain with the camera panning to Khali and Hassan, the Entity’s leader pacing up and down as he shows a look of fear, worried that Shawn Michaels may be set to knock off another member of his Entity. Both men roll away from one another as the crowd begins a strong ‘H-B-K’ chant, Michaels heading over to the ropes, trying to pull himself up as Dutt struggles to his knees, clutching his mid section after that rough landing.

Michaels is first to his feet, wiping away the sweat from his forehead, wiping away the blood before he seems to mouth the words ‘Come on’ to Dutt who is pulling himself up via the ropes, Dutt spins round…SWEET CHIN MUSIC!! NO!! DUTT DUCKS IT!! Michaels spins back round and goes for a boot to Dutt, the Entity member catches it BUT MICHAELS STRIKES WITH AN ENZIGURI!!

Dutt’s floored and Michaels heads to the corner, the fans are all fired up as Michaels begins to tune up the band once again!! Michaels is poised to strike…but here comes Muhammad Hassan!! Hassan storms the ring, he’s seen enough of…BAM!!! MICHAELS TAKES HASSAN’S HEAD OFF WITH SOME SWEET CHIN MUSIC!! THE POP IS THROUG THE ROOF AS HASSAN DROPS AND ROLLS OUT OF THE RING, MICHAELS IS ON FIRE!! He’s pumping up the crowd…BUT HE TURNS ROUND AND SEES THE GREAT KHALI STANDING RIGHT BEHIND HIM!! The pop suddenly turns into a massive ‘Ooooooooooooh’ as Michaels facial expression shifts to one of real focus. He stands right in front of Khali who isn’t budging, Michaels waiting, what will the Showstopper do here? Michaels looks to his left, looks to his right…BEFORE HE SLAPS KHALI ACROSS THE FACE!!

Khali turns back round and looks FURIOUS as he swings at Michaels who ducks it, Michaels doesn’t waste time, he runs the ropes, charges back at Khali WHO TAKES MICHAELS HEAD OFF WITH A THUNDEROUS CLOTHESLINE!! Michaels is turned inside out as he flies across the ring, Khali roars to the crowd before stepping back over the ropes, his job done before we see Sonjay Dutt scratching, clawing his way across the ring, desperate to cover Shawn Michaels. Dutt’s almost there, he drapes an arm across Michaels’ chest…

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HE GOT HIM!! NO!!! MICHAELS SOMEHOW ROLLS A SHOULDER AND STAYS IN THIS THING!!

The Ford Center comes unglued again as Shawn Michaels stays alive much to the disbelief of Dutt, the shock of Khali and the sheer anger of Muhammad Hassan who is pacing around the ring now, hands on his head as he tells the crowd to shut up before…before he heads over towards Lilian Garcia AND HE GRABS A STEEL CHAIR!! HASSAN HAS SEEN ENOUGH!! The Entity’s leader grabs a Steel Chair before tossing it inside the squared circle, into the path of Sonjay Dutt. Dutt grabs the chair, the official is pleading with him not to use it but Dutt appears to be having none of it, he’s gonna risk eliminating himself, just to do some damage to the Heartbreak Kid. Dutt then sets the chair up, standing it up, what the hell has the high flier got in mind here? The chair is poised and Dutt heads back over towards Michaels, going to pull the Showstopper to his feet BUT MICHAELS WITH A SMALL PACKAGE!!

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MICHAELS STEALS IT!! FROM OUT OF NOWHERE!! SONJAY DUTT IS ELMINATED AND THE LOOK OF HORROR ON MUHAMMAD HASSAN’S FACE TELLS THE WHOLE STORY!! DAIVARI GONE, DUTT NOW GONE AND MICHAELS EDGING EVER CLOSER TO A STUNNING VICTORY!! THE SHOWSTOPPER PULLING OUT ALL THE STOPS HERE!!

Eliminated: Sonjay Dutt(10:56)

There’s a real buzz inside the arena now, people sensing that Michaels may be about to pull off the impossible here as we see Muhammad Hassan absolutely RAGING, thinking up his next move, neither Dutt or Daivari able to put Michaels away as he now pats Khali on the chest telling him to ‘GET IN THERE AND DO YOUR JOB’ and Khali nods right back at him before striding over the top rope as Michaels rises to his knees with business well and truly about to pick up. J.R is selling that elimination hard, claiming that Michaels faith is now seeing him through, that Michaels faith is going to drive him to victory, only for Coach to quash those theories claiming Khali’s about to destroy not just HBK’s faith but the faith of mankind.

Khali is stalking Michaels who slowly sits up, not quite aware of his surroundings though, all the punishment he’s taken as well as the head injury perhaps taking their toll now as Khali walks menacingly over towards the stirring Showstopper. We then see as well as hear Muhammad Hassan barking out more orders, demanding that Khali ‘punish’ him, demanding him to ‘take away his faith’ as Khali now pulls Michaels up by the hair, Michaels wincing as Khali grips it tight before tossing Michaels into the corner, Shawn being tossed around like a rag doll by this man mountain.

Khali trickles over towards Shawn, eyeing up his lifeless opponent BEFORE SLAPPING THE HELL OUT OF MICHAELS’ CHEST!! It sounds like a gun shot being fired as Khali AGAIN slaps Michaels chest and Michaels simply crashes down to the mat, the force of those slaps evident as Khali is in cruise control here.

Again the giant picks Michaels up, the crowd trying to rally their hero as a ‘H-B-K’ chant fires up again and Khali places Shawn up against the ropes before an Irish whip…but Michaels doesn’t rebound, instead hanging on, perhaps for dear life. Khali comes racing over(as quick as he can anyway) and FIRES A BIG BOOT UP BUT MICHAELS PULLS THE ROPE DOWN AND KHALI GETS CAUGHT!! KHALI IN A DELICATE POSITION BEFORE MICHAELS STRIKES WITH SWEET CHIN MUSIC KNOCKING KHALI DOWN AND OUT OF THE RING!! HAS MICHAELS TURNED THE TABLES ONCE AGAIN!?!

Michaels takes a breather…or so he thought but there’s NO time to rest as we see HASSAN COME FROM BEHIND AND HE TOSSES MICHAELS OUT OF THE RING, HBK CRASHING INTO THE ANNOUNCE TABLE, BOTH LEGAL MEN NOW DOWN AND OUT!! Hassan takes in the heat as he now heads to the outside also, the referee beginning a count out.

Hassan is pulling at Khali, trying to get the big man up to his feet, realising that Michaels may have an out card if Khali is counted out here. Hassan is rushing Khali, pushing him, trying to hurry the big man as the referee reaches a count of four now. Michaels is holding his face, his wound still trickling blood but not so ferociously as before with Michaels now sitting up. The camera shifts and we see Khali very slowly getting to his feet now, Hassan still helping him as the giant rests against the ring. Michaels is trying to claw his way to his feet, using the announce table to do so BUT HASSAN COMES FROM BEHIND AND SMASHES MICHAELS FACE OFF THE ANNOUNCE TABLE!!

Michaels already injured skull takes a battering before Hassan yells at Khali to get inside the ring, the big man doing just that, very awkwardly albeit as the count reaches seven. Khali IS now in the ring and Hassan grabs Michaels bringing him to his feet as we see that Shawn is AGAIN BLEEDING HEAVILY!! That table shot having the desired effect for Hassan, the numbers game proving all too much for Michaels, not for the first time tonight, as Hassan tosses him back into the ring right into the path of the awaiting Khali.

There’s a real sense of fear now around the arena, everybody believing that the end may be near for Shawn Michaels. Michaels is crawling on his hands and knees here, Khali seemingly in no rush, perhaps still struggling also following his hefty landing…but we then see that Shawn Michaels has GRABBED THE STEEL CHAIR!! Has the Heartbreak Kid realised time’s up? Is Mr.Wrestlemania about to take out a last resort? Or is it a case of one shot to the head too many and the Heartbreak Kid about to snap?

Michaels has the chair in hand now, still crouched down as Khali heads over to him…but so too does the referee and the referee grabs the chair from Michaels, Michaels fighting it however, refusing to hand over but finally the referee takes the chair, turns around and tosses it outside the squared circle AND MICHAELS TAKES FULL ADVANTAGE AS HE STICKS IT TO KHALI WITH A LOW BLOW!! A LOW BLOW TO THE SEVEN FOOTER AND KHALI DROPS TO HIS KNEES!! The crowd are going wild BUT HERE COMES HASSAN…MICHAELS SEES HIM COMING AND TOSSES HIM UP AND OVER THE TOP!! THE ARENA IS ELECTRIC!! Michaels takes a step or two back, the blood still gushing as he wipes it off his face BEFORE DELIVERING WITH SWEET CHIN MUSIC TO KHALI!! THE MONSTER IS FLOORED AND MICHAELS SCRAMBLES INTO A COVER, EVERY LAST DROP OF BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS SHOWN BY THE HEARTBREAK KID!!

1…



2…



3…

KHALI IS ELIMINATED!! IT’S DOWN TO MICHAELS AND HASSAN!!

Eliminated: The Great Khali(14:43)

MICHAELS IS GIVING THE PERFORMANCE OF HIS LIFE!! The numbers game, the head injury, the hopeless situation he finds himself in heading into this contest and yet Shawn Michaels is pulling out all the stops to leave Oklahoma in a BLAZE of glory!! Shawn remains fallen inside the ring, absolutely exhausted as the crowd are on their feet in support. We then see that Hassan is getting to his knees on the outside, about to realise that it is now simply one on one, it’s all on the Entity’s leader now…but suddenly there’s an outpour of boos as the camera shifts…AND WE SEE ERIC BISCHOFF HEADING DOWN THE RAMP!!

The Raw General Manager, Shawn Michaels Employer is strutting down the ramp with a purpose, a scowl on his face as he walks up the steps and enters the ring, looking up and down at Michaels who remains laid out on the mat, taking every chance he gets to catch his breath as the referee then confronts Bischoff, telling him he’s gotta get out but Bischoff is having NONE OF IT!! Easy E begins remonstrating with the official, the two getting pretty heated here as Bischoff seems to relent, hands on hips, frustrated as he takes a deep breath BEFORE DELIVERING A RIGHT HAND TO THE OFFICIAL!!

The referee is completely wiped out as the crowd boos the crap out of Bischoff as he again drops out of the ring…AND HE GRABS THAT STEEL CHAIR!! J.R is going crazy on commentary as Coach calls his boss an absolute ‘genius’. The chair the official threw out of the ring is back in the mix here as we see Bischoff walk around the ring with it, heading over to Hassan and he hands the Entity’s leader the weapon!!

Hassan is a little leggy as he gratefully takes the chair, beginning to smirk as he realises, despite the loss of his members that this one is still swinging in his favour. Hassan then heads into the ring as we see that Shawn is dragging himself up, using the ropes to do so, any way of finding his balance being used, Hassan now lining him up, steel chair in hand!! Michaels spins round…HASSAN CRACKS HIM ACROSS THE SKULL WITH A DEVASTATING CHAIR SHOT!! Michaels crumples in a heap, absolutely laid out cold, an eerie silence now coming across the Ford Center as Hassan drops down, hooking a leg…

….

….



But there’s NO REFEREE!! It’s all in vain for Hassan as he sits back up, pounding his fists on the mat with Eric Bischoff now gulping, perhaps recognising his mistake as Raw’s GM is now demanding a referee come down to the ring!! Bischoff is motioning for an official to come down, nobody answering the call however as Bischoff is throwing a hissy fit, tossing his arms up in the air, turning around in frustration…BUT AN OFFICIAL DOES NOW BEGIN TO MAKE THEIR WAY DOWN!! Bischoff is screaming at him to hurry up and the official begins to sprint now, flying under the bottom rope, Hassan into the cover again…

1…



2…



MICHAELS KICKS OUT!! WHAT THE HELL?!? THE OKLAHOMA FAITHFUL ARE GOING WILD AS SHAWN MICHAELS SOMEHOW, SOMEWAY MANAGES TO KICK OUT!! HASSAN AND BISCHOFF ARE IN A STATE OF SHEER DISBELIEF!!

Hassan sits up and is in total shock, not knowing where to turn, what to do as Bischoff shakes his head on the outside, absolutely stunned, left open mouthed. Hassan now rises and begins to question the decision but it’s no use as the referee again states it was a two count. It doesn’t sit at all well though with Hassan who grabs the referee by the shirt...AND TOSSES HIM THROUGH THE ROPES AND TO THE OUTSIDE!! HASSAN HAS LOST IT HERE AND WE’VE LOST ANOTHER REFEREE AS HE ONCE AGAIN PICKS UP THE STEEL CHAIR!!

Bischoff is now trying desperately to get the FIRST official back up and conscious but it doesn’t seem to be having the desired effect, the referee still down and seemingly out. Michaels is now beginning to stir though, the blood still dripping, Michaels perhaps running out of steam now as Hassan yells ‘COME ON’, desperate for Michaels to rise, to finish the Showstopper off once and for all. Michaels is to his feet, he turns around, HASSAN COMES FLYING IN, CHAIR IN HAND BUT MICHAELS SEES HIM COMING!! Boot to the gut by Michaels, Hassan dropping the chair and MICHAELS SCORES WITH A DDT!! IS THE HEARTBREAK KID REALLY GONNA PULL THIS OFF!?!?

Michaels brings himself to his feet now, flicking his hair back, wincing in pain as he heads over towards the corner, HBK wanting to finally put an end to not just this but to all his troubles as Michaels begins to tune up the band!! But he suddenly stops???

As we see ERIC BISCHOFF STANDING ACROSS THE RING FROM HIM!! Michaels suddenly realises just who stands before him and this victory, the thorn in his side ever since Wrestlemania, the man who holds him under contract. Bischoff is pleading with Michaels not to do this, yelling ‘I AM YOUR BOSS, YOU LISTEN TO ME’, Shawn is surveying the crowd, the fans are egging him on, wanting to see him take his payback before Michaels shifts gear back towards Bischoff, suddenly smirking with his boss telling him not to do it…BUT MICHAELS TAKES HIS DAMN HEAD OFF WITH SOME SWEET CHIN MUSIC!! HBK KICKING THE RAW GM’S TEETH DOWN HIS THROAT!! MICHAELS IS ALL FIRED UP…BAM!!!!!! HASSAN STRIKES WITH THE DAMN STEEL CHAIR!! A SICKENING SHOT TO THE SKULL FROM THE ENTITY’S MASTERMIND!! Hassan drops to his knees, scrambling into the cover on a falle, decimated Michaels…and the referee is coming to life!!! HASSAN’S GOT AN ARM ACROSS MICHAELS’ CHEST, THE REFEREE IS IN POSITION!! NOT THIS WAY DAMN IT!!

1…

….

2…

….

3…

….

HE GOT HIM!! HASSAN WINS IT!! THE ENTITY VICTORIOUS TONIGHT!! MICHAELS’ HEROIC EFFORT COMES TO NOTHING AS HASSAN STEALS IT!!

Winners: The Arabian Entity(17:50)​

Jim Ross:
I’LL BE DAMNED!! DAMN IT TO HELL!! SHAWN MICHAELS GAVE IT EVERYTHING HE HAD AND HE STILL HAD TO BE SCREWED HERE TONIGHT!! Eric Bischoff, the Arabian Entity, a steel chair, blood everywhere you look and Shawn Michaels STILL, he STILL shoulda walked outta Oklahoma City with the victory. Hassan stealing it, this…this piece of trash stealing it tonight.

The Coach:
You are a racist J.R!! Muhammad Hassan didn’t steal anything, he’s not a piece of trash, he is a GENIUS, he is a WINNER, he is a bonafide STAR!! What a night for the Entity, what a night for Muhammad Hassan…what a night for ERIC BISCHOFF!! Is this the final straw for Shawn Michaels?! Is this at long last the end of the line?! Is tonight the night we see Shawn Michaels finally…pack his bags and walk away? I DAMN SURE HOPE SO!!

Michaels is down and out, the blood covering his face, heavy breathing as the exhaustion from this match takes its toll while we see Muhammad Hassan celebrating his victory, raising his arms up high as his music plays in the background, the Entity’s leader now dragging Eric Bischoff to his feet and out of the ring, Hassan telling Bischoff that ‘We did it’, the boss not quite sure of his surroundings though.

Jim Ross:
I guarandamntee you Coach, no matter what you hope for, no matter what these men hope for, Shawn Michaels will NOT walk away, he will NOT quit, he will live to fight another day and he will live to fight this Entity, to fight this dictator and after that performance tonight I’m almost certain, Shawn Michaels will fight his way outta this thing.

The Coach:
That’s your opinion J.R but it’s not a fact. I got a fact for ya though, Shawn Michaels HELL is only gonna continue unless he walks away, that’s not an opinion, that’s a cold, hard FACT. The Heartbreak Kid…is done.

We get a chilling shot of Michaels still motionless on the mat, his face a claret colour before we see Muhammad Hassan and Eric Bischoff on top of the ramp, arms raised in victory, although not as convincing as they’d hoped for, still a big night for Hassan and his Entity.

We then head off backstage where we see the victorious Intercontinental Champion Shelton Benjamin who is packing his bags, preparing to leave the arena it would seem, tracksuit on and a smile on his face having seen off the challenge of Mark Jindrak earlier on tonight. Benjamin’s attention is soon diverted however as we hear the door go, Benjamin looking up to see his partner enter the scene, Charlie Haas, who has seemingly won the race to avoid William Regal’s advances.

Charlie Haas:
There ya are man, congratulations, you did it!!

Haas pats Benjamin on the back but Shelton doesn’t look all that impressed, continuing to pack his bag, muttering the word ‘Thanks’.

Charlie Haas:
What’s…what’s wrong? Shelton you WON out there tonight, you’re STILL Intercontinental Champion man, what is there to be down about? C’mon.

Benjamin simply stares a hole through Haas.

Shelton Benjamin:
I was happy Charlie, I was thrilled that I won that match…until I saw exactly how I won it. As soon as I got back here I had people congratulating me, telling me how good the match was, how good I performed, telling me…telling me how good it must be to have my partner help me out like that.

Benjamin now looks confused, almost questioning it.

Shelton Benjamin:
So I said what are you…what are you talkin’ about? I didn’t have any help out there tonight. But then they told me what happened and y’know what? I still didn’t believe ‘em!! But then I watched the match back and what did I see?

Haas hangs his head, not responding.

Shelton Benjamin:
What did I see Charlie?

Charlie Haas:
Alright, alright I helped you but what…what does it matter? You got what you wanted, we got what we wanted, you’re still Intercontinental Champion and now we can go after the Tag Titles again, I don’t see the problem.

Haas shrugs his shoulders as he looks back at Benjamin, Benjamin s......ing a little bit.

Shelton Benjamin:
The problem is, I don’t want your help man, I don’t want anybody’s help. I want your support, sure but helping me to win? That’s not what I represent Charlie, that’s not what we’re about man, come on, you know that.

Benjamin looks extremely disappointed in Haas.

Charlie Haas:
Well what are we about Shelton? Are we about being selfish? Are we about looking out for ourselves and only ourselves? Is that what we’re about cos hey, that’s all you’ve done lately and y’know what? If I’d have been selfish out there tonight, if I’d have looked out for only myself then trust me Shelton, you wouldn’t be standing here holding that title.

There’s some audible boos for Haas there who is clearly frustrated, Benjamin looking a little shocked at Haas biting back at him.

Shelton Benjamin:
Is that what you think huh? You think I can’t do it on my own? You think I couldn’t go out there tonight and get the job done?

Charlie Haas:
That’s not what I think, not at all but the footage doesn’t lie Shelton. Without me getting involved tonight, Jindrak had you beat.

Benjamin now hangs his head, perhaps thinking about what Haas is saying here.

Charlie Haas:
Whether you think it’s right or wrong you are still the Intercontinental Champion. One of the most prestigious championships in this business and you hold it. I know for a fact that if it was me in your position, if it was me holding that title, it’d be win at all costs.

Haas is defiant, not backing down over what he did tonight.

Charlie Haas:
You’re my partner Shelton and partners look out for one another, partners have each other’s backs. Tonight? All I did…was have yours and if I had to do the same again, I damn sure would.

Haas delivers a glare at Benjamin, the I.C Champ having his head down still before looking right back up at his partner as Haas then turns his back and leaves, more tension between the World’s Greatest Tag Team here tonight as we then head back to ringside...​

‘KENNEDYYY’

‘Turn up the Trouble’

And out next to a decent pop which is followed up with a few boos is the one and only Mr.Kennedy who struts arrogantly down to the ring, gum in his mouth as ever as he looks right and left around the crowd, a cocky grin on his face with him looking to finally find some competition here tonight.

Jim Ross:
Well it’s time to find out just who will answer the call, who’s gonna answer the challenge from Mr.Kennedy here tonight. Kennedy is undefeated and to be honest, he’s been untested since his debut on Monday Night Raw and that’s something Kennedy has NOT been impressed with Coach.

The Coach:
Absolutely not and why should he be? I wouldn’t be impressed either. A man this talented should be getting tested, he should be getting REAL competition, not joke after joke comin’ his way. Tonight I’m hopin, J.R I’m PRAYIN’ that Kennedy gets what he deserves and proves exactly why he’s the ‘Game Changer’ he says he is.

Kennedy enters the ring and stares up to the heavens, his microphone lowering from the rafters as his music dies down and the loudmouth gets set to address this fired up crowd in Oklahoma.

Mr.Kennedy:
Ladies anddddd gentleman, THE TIME…has come.

Kennedy’s eyes widen with excitement.

Mr.Kennedy:
The waiting is over, tonight is the NIGHT. Ever since I signed for Raw all I’ve wanted is some competition, a challenge, to face somebody who is worth a second of my time and I’ve got…I’ve got nothin’.

Kennedy shakes his head.

Mr.Kennedy:
BUT…fear not because tonight it all turns around so uh…real sorry to disappoint ya but I’m just about done talkin’…I know, highlight of your night right?

Kennedy chuckles a tad to himself amidst a few boos there.

Mr.Kennedy:
But this party’s just about to get started so let’s…let’s bring out my opponent, c’mon, who’s it gonna be? Who’s gonna step up huh?

Kennedy now awaits his opponent, motioning for them to come on down as the crowd waits in anticipation…

‘Shattered Dreams’

Oh my. There’s a surprisingly loud pop as the music of the Bizarre One hits and out comes, dressed in his usual robe and wig, the one and only Goldust!! Kennedy is unmoved, nobody quite sure just what his reaction to this is as Goldust eyes up the ‘Game Changer’ with that look in his eye that so often strikes fear into his opponents.

Jim Ross:
Well I think Kennedy’s about to get the competition he wanted. Goldust certainly isn’t gonna roll over tonight, he’s a former Intercontinental Champion, he knows what it takes here in the WWE and Kennedy needs to be careful here tonight.

The Coach:
Have you…have you listened to yourself? Goldust is competition? Gimme a break. This is NOT what Kennedy wanted, this is NOT what he deserves. Goldust ain’t a challenge, Goldust ain’t a threat to a guy like Kennedy, this is an outrage and I hope Kennedy sends him back to Bizarro world.

Goldust enters the ring, eyeing up Kennedy in that weird fashion of his, Kennedy looking a little freaked out. He remains robed as he heads over to the far side of the ring, asking for a microphone as Kennedy holds his to his mouth, clearly wanting to address his challenger.

Mr.Kennedy:
You? You…are my competition?

Goldust:
I…

Mr.Kennedy:
No, no, I don’t wanna hear it, I don’t have to hear it, I am SICK TO DEATH OF THIS!! BISCHOFF YOU BETTER FIND ME SOMEBODY ELSE BUDDY!!

Kennedy is clearly furious here, getting extremely worked up as he paces around the ring, leaning on the ropes now as he yells to the back for Bischoff whilst Goldust looks on at him.

Mr.Kennedy:
Week after week I get freakin’ Eugene doin’ his best just to PISS ME OFF AND NOW I GOT…I GOT…you? You’re doin’ this to screw with me aren’t ya? This is…this is Bischoff’s work isn’t it? You think you can really call yourself a challenge to me? You think you can class yourself as competition to me? You think you being my opponent is a…

Goldust:
Mr.Kennedy you may think I’m not in your league, you may think I’m not in your cla…claaa…AAAA…CLASSIC…HOGAN WINS A CLASSIC …you may think I’m not in your class but I know you’re wrong and deep down you know it too.

Kennedy is laughing at Goldust with a confused look on his face, ‘Are ya sure?’ is his response. The crowd laughing still at Goldust’s stutter.

Goldust:
And that’s not all you’re wrong on either. Y’see I am NOT…your opponent here tonight.

A few groans and boos at that as Kennedy breathes a sigh of relief.

Mr.Kennedy:
Oh ‘allefreakin’lujah. If there’s one thing ya are good for then it’s givin’ people a heart attack, ya had me worried there. So if that’s all you’re out here for then how bout ya get outta my ring and let my REAL challenge come on out here and take his beating like a MAN!

Goldust is now the one to have a little chuckle.

Goldust:
Oh I am out here for a reason and it’s not to give you a hear…heart…h…HART ATTACK, SHARPSHOOTER, BAH GAWD THE HITMAN HAS THE SHARPSHOOTER LOCKED IN!! I’m not out here to give you a heart attack, I’m out here to introduce your opponent.

Kennedy is facepalming after that stutter but his interest picks up upon hearing Goldust’s actual reasoning for being out here.

Goldust:
I met your opponent this past Monday for the first time and I offered to help him on his journey to discovering who he really is. I offered to step up and help him find out just what lies within him and to…to let it all out.

The crowd know just who Goldust is talking about, Kennedy not quite sure, clearly not having seen Goldust’s encounter on Raw.

Goldust:
Tonight, we begin phase one of our journey and we begin with providing you the challenge you so dearly desire. Mr.Kennedy the time has indeed come, please, meet your opponent…

The buzz is evident as the crowd know who’s coming, Kennedy is simply scowling, a look of confusion on the surprisingly quiet loudmouth, he’s showing signs of nerves for the first time perhaps…

‘Shattered Dreams’

What the hell? There’s general confusion as Goldust’s music hits once again, nobody emerging…before we see EUGENE appear and…AND HE’S DRESSED IDENTICAL TO GOLDUST!! Eugene has the trademark Goldust robe on, he’s got the facepaint on, he’s even got the hair piece to boot!! The crowd are going wild, Goldust is grinning while Kennedy simply looks on in horror, he cannot quite believe what he’s seeing.

Jim Ross:
What in the world are we witnessing? Are we really seeing this? Goldust has…well he’s vowed to help Eugene discover who he really is and…and it appears this is the path he’s gonna take him on!!

The Coach:
……

Jim Ross:
What’s the matter Coach? Cat got your tongue?

The Coach:
I can honestly say I’ve never been at a loss for words in all my life like I have right here. This is un…be…liveable. Eugene…dressed like Goldust? Eugene…being mentored by Goldust? Are you KIDDIN’ ME?! OH NO, THIS AS WELL!! J.R…NO!!

Coach is screwing because Eugene has entered the ring and hopped up on the top rope before doing the CLASSIC GOLDUST INHALE, EXHALE which draws a mighty fine pop from the crowd, Kennedy now head down, scratching his chin as Goldust exits the ring, applauding his understudy with the music now dying down and this one seemingly set to get underway. Kennedy tosses his mic away, standing in the exact same spot, his facial expression unchanged, trying to take this all in as Eugene then unrobes and removes his wig, the facepaint still proving to be somewhat of a distraction as well as his tight black and gold ring attire with Kennedy eyeing his opponent up and down, now shaking his head in apparent disgust and the referee signals this one to get underway.​

Mr.Kennedy’s Open Challenge:

Mr.Kennedy vs Eugene w/Goldust

The bell rings and Eugene, to the crowd’s cheers and laughter, crouches down in the corner, hands together and arms in between his legs, vintage Goldust style as Kennedy now tilts his head in sheer confusion at what exactly is going on here, he doesn’t quite seem to be sure just what he’s facing tonight after his desperate search for competition has led to…this.

Eugene now begins to pace around the ring, a shot of Goldust is shown as he watches on eagerly from ringside, Kennedy remaining stood in the exact same spot since Eugene came out to the ring. Eugene approaches Kennedy now and FINALLY Kennedy seems to snap out of his shock as his whole body moves before he yells out at Eugene ‘WHY?! WHAT THE HELL IS THIS, WHO THE HELL ARE YOU TRYIN’ TO BE?!’ Eugene looks around the crowd, looking down next at Goldust who gives him a nod of approval and EUGENE SMASHES KENNEDY WITH A RIGHT HAND!!

A roar from the crowd greets that as Eugene now goes on the front foot, rocking Kennedy who’s caught completely off guard. Repeated right hands from a fired up Eugene sends Kennedy into the ropes, Irish whip now, Kennedy rebounds, ATOMIC DROP!! Eugene now runs the ropes, Kennedy doubled over and Eugene strikes with a big time clothesline!! Into an early cover, 1…2…kick out at two from Kennedy.

Eugene quickly brings Kennedy to his feet again, seemingly more confidence in himself following his new found alliance with Goldust as he strikes with more big time right hands to Kennedy. Irish whip into the corner, Kennedy crashing into it at a rocketing pace as Eugene comes charging right behind him and SMASHES him with an elbow to the jaw, the point of Eugene’s elbow sending Kennedy’s head snapping back. Repeated elbows now from Eugene who then backs out of the corner, all fired up as he then sprints forward back at Kennedy, NOBODY HOME!! Kennedy dodges outta the way and Eugene crashes into the corner, Kennedy now spinning right round and unloading with boots to the gut of Eugene, real venom and aggression being shown by the Green Bay native.

Kennedy is relentless as he continues to hammer away with kicks to Eugene who slowly starts to slump down, eventually ending up sat down in the corner as Kennedy’s now the one to back away and yells out in anger ‘THE JOKE’S OVER, I’M NOT PLAYIN’ ANYMORE’ and Kennedy now goes rampaging in and SMASHES EUGENE WITH A KNEE TO THE SKULL!! Brutal move from Kennedy and Eugene collapses to the mat, looking almost out cold as Kennedy stares down with an unforgiving look on his face at his fallen opponent. Kennedy picks up where he left off and stomps the crap out of Eugene, boots to the face as the referee warns Kennedy off, only for KK to shout right at the official to back off.

Kennedy then picks Eugene up to his feet, a strut in his step, perhaps wanting to end this thing here and now as he strikes with a kick to the gut, going behind Eugene now and he takes him down with a powerful forward Russian legsweep!! Eugene going face first into the mat as Kennedy really assumes control here but wags a finger as if to say ‘I’m not through with you just yet’. Eugene rolls over onto his back clutching his face as Kennedy now runs the ropes and comes thumping down with a leg drop right across the throat of his opponent. The crowd are trying to spur Eugene on, as is Goldust but it’s no use right now with Kennedy getting a firm stranglehold on this thing.

Kennedy now drops down to Eugene’s level and almost instantly locks Eugene into a sleeper hold, the Bizarre One’s understudy gasping for air as Kennedy cinches the hold in tight, wanting to make Eugene suffer here. Kennedy lets out a yell of ‘C’MON’ as the referee checks to make sure Eugene’s still in this thing but there’s no response, Kennedy wearing him down. The referee raises Eugene’s arm in the air…and it drops…

Eugene in trouble here as the crowd are rallying, trying to give all their support to the underdog as the referee again raises Eugene’s arm in the air for a second time…and it drops again!!

Eugene in deep trouble here, Kennedy locking his grip in even tighter as the referee again checks on Eugene before raising his arm for a third and final time…and…EUGENE KEEPS HIS ARM HELD HIGH!! There’s a big pop as Eugene battles not to fade out of this thing and tries valiantly to bring himself to his feet, he gets to one knee and begins digging elbows into the mid section of Kennedy, the Game Changer’s grip loosening as Eugene continues to dig an elbow into the gut of Kennedy, fighting with all he’s got to get back in this thing and…KENNEDY’S HOLD IS BROKEN!! Eugene fights free and both men catch their breath before turning round and Eugene SMACKS Kennedy with a right hand, right hand back by Kennedy, trading blows here before an Irish whip by Eugene, reversal, Eugene rebounds and Kennedy bends down, back body drop, NO!! Eugene sees it coming and drops to his knees, BIG UPPERCUT SENDS KENNEDY SPIRALLING!!

Eugene is feeling it here, the crowd likewise and Goldust continuing to encourage on the outside as Kennedy spins back into the path of Eugene, boot to the gut, Irish whip and Kennedy flies into the corner, BIG CLOTHESLINE from Eugene!! Kennedy in no man’s land as Eugene grabs the left leg of Kennedy and pulls it up to the middle rope, he then switches over and grabs KK’s right leg and places that on the middle rope, UH OH!! The crowd know what’s in store and Goldust does too!! Kennedy’s left wide open here as Eugene backs away from the corner, taking a long run up…BAM!! SHATTERED DREAMS TO KENNEDY!! IT’S VINTAGE GOLDUST BUT NOT FROM THE BIZARRE ONE, FROM THE FIRED UP EUGENE!!

Kennedy collapses to the mat, clutching his nether regions as the crowd continue to go wild, Eugene sensing the end is now near. He goes over to Kennedy, bringing the loudmouth up, wanting to finish this as he strikes with a boot to the gut, Eugene’s got Kennedy up, FINAL CUT INCOMING!! NO!! KENNEDY ROLLS DOWN THE BACK OF EUGENE…he’s still struggling however as Eugene swings for him but Kennedy ducks it, spins back round and Eugene turns right into Kennedy’s path…MIC CHECK…CONNECTS!! Kennedy, despite being in a world of pain manages to pull it out the bag with that one as he slowly trickles over to the fallen Eugene, rolls him over into a cover…

1…



2…



3…

Kennedy takes it!!

Winner: Mr.Kennedy(6:29)​

Jim Ross:
Well it was a little more nervy, a little more difficult than Mr.Kennedy probably expected here tonight but once again Kennedy got the job done and he did it decisively.

The Coach:
He got the job done but I gotta worry about our boss now J.R. Eric Bischoff was warned by Mr.Kennedy, he’s been warned since day one and I’m our boss’ biggest fan but he may’ve screwed up when it comes to this man. Kennedy is gold and I gotta worry that Green Bay’s finest may well have turned his back on Eric Bischoff now.

Kennedy can be seen exiting the ring, yelling at the fans ‘This is ALL Bischoff’s fault, I’m too damn good for THAT’. Kennedy pointing back in the ring before smirking arrogantly and shouting at the top of his lungs ‘HE CAN’T HOLD ME DOWN…THIS IS MY TIME TO SHINE, MY TIME’ before Kennedy gets right in the face of the camera before slowly whispering ‘Kennedyyyy’, the crowd surprisingly behind Kennedy despite his decisive win over fan favourite Eugene.

We then head off backstage where we join the beautiful Maria for the second time this evening, the ditzy interviewer all set for another ‘classic’ grilling of a Raw superstar.

Maria:
Hi, it’s me again, Maria!! I’ve already interviewed the World Champion here tonight and right now I’ve got the man who is next in line for a shot at that World Title, when he takes on the winner of tonight’s main event, please welcome, Christian!!

Captain Charisma appears into shot to a chorus of boos, a few cheers from his ‘Peeps’ however and the new #1 contender can’t contain his delight, all smiles.

Maria:
Christian congratulations on becoming the next number one contender, just how tough was it to walk away victorious tonight?

Christian pauses, thinking for a moment before responding.

Christian:
Let me make this really clear for you Maria. I'm not here to answer any of your questions, I didn’t come here to be interviewed, I came here to make a statement to all my ‘Peeps’ right around the world.

Christian again smiles to himself, pointing out towards the arena for his ‘Peeps’.

Christian:
I just wanted to let them all know, hell, let everybody know…that this journey’s only just beginning and trust me, it ain’t about to stop anytime soon. Summerslam was step one, getting rid of old man Flair, it was a major night in my career, no doubt about it but it’s not the defining night.

Christian shakes his head.

Christian:
No, no the defining night will come when at long last, after seven years in this company I get what I deserve, when I get what I’ve earned, when I get a shot at becoming the World…Heavyweight…Champion.

A few cheers can be heard with his loyal ‘Peeps’ appreciating the fact he does now have his title opportunity.

Christian:
That will be my defining night. The night where Captain Charisma finally reaches the top of the mountain, where all my ‘Peeps’ get to be a part of history, where I finish the job I started at Summerslam and I cement my legacy as the leader of a new era, the face of the next generation, where I well and truly become…the man.

It’s dead serious from Captain Charisma here as he stares firmly at Maria.

Christian:
So whether it’s Kane or whether it’s Batista, I really don’t give a crap. They might think they’re in for the fight of their life tonight but when they step in the ring with me it’s a whole different ball game. I might not be as big as those guys, I might not be as strong but I’m ten times smarter than those two Neanderthals combined and you’d better believe I got a whole lot more talent too.

Christian is full of himself as ever here, Maria nodding on obliviously.

Christian:
The message is real simple, Kane, Batista whoever it is, you’d better start thinkin’ ahead, you’d better start preparing yourselves for what’s to come because tonight’s the least o‘ your problems. Captain Charisma is on your tail, he’s about to take his rightful spot atop of the ladder and there ain’t a damn thing you can do about it cos that’s just HOW…I…ROLL.

Christian pounds his chest one more time, a mixed reaction for the leader of the ‘Christian Coalition’ as he then heads off before we return back ringside, all set for our main event as we see the Steel Cage being lowered, a buzz now inside the arena before we shift over to J.R and Coach at the announce table.

Jim Ross:
Well strong words from our new number one contender and folks it is indeed time for our main event, a Steel Cage match, Batista versus Kane, Animal versus Monster, let’s take a look at how this all came about.​

*Video Package*

The video begins with footage from Summerslam as Batista nails the BatistaBomb on Kane before Shawn Michaels makes the three count, raising the Animal’s hand in victory over the fallen monster.

Jim Ross: BATISTA HAS DONE IT!! BATISTA RETAINS!!

The Coach: Michaels is under contract to Eric Bischoff, he does what Eric Bischoff tells him to do and he went out there tonight under STRICT ORDERS to count Batista down.

We then get an image from that match where we see Michaels delivering Sweet Chin Music to Kane.

Following on from that we see Kane being interviewed the Raw after Summerslam, an intense, dangerous look about him.


Kane: Without Shawn Michaels last night, Batista would NOT be holding that championship, I would.

A devastating Chokeslam from the Big Red Machine is then shown before Kane’s trademark lighting the fire around the ring.

Batista: Is that what you think huh? My only prayer last night was Shawn Michaels?

Kane: That is EXACTLY…what I think. Last night was your lucky night Dave, next time? Next time I’m gonna take that title away from you and I’m gonna show that a Monster ALWAYS…beats an Animal.

We then see Kane’s demonic laugh before a shot of a fired up Batista, delivering a vicious clothesline before a shot of the champ delivering a devastating spinebuster.

Batista: This World Title… is mine and believe me, there ain’t no man… or monster…that’s gonna take it away from me, you understand that?

We see the two men now face to face, nose to nose, neither man backing down.

Kane: Oh I understand, I fully understand. But Dave, I don’t think you know…just what this monster is capable of.

And with that we see Kane laugh in that twisted way again, the music beginning to pick up pace as we now get all the hard hitting, all the brutality, all the chaos these two men have produced in recent weeks, starting with a devastating SPEAR OFF THE STAGE FROM BATISTA!! Kane absolutely torn into two, both men flying off the stage as the champion sacrifices himself to take down the monster.

Jim Ross: GOOD GOD ALMIGHTY!! BATISTA AND KANE, CHAMPION AND CHALLENGER CRASHING OFF THE DAMN STAGE!! BATISTA JUST TOOK THE MONSTER DOWN BUT HE TOOK HIMSELF RIGHT DOWN WITH HIM!!

We see both men absolutely laid out at the bottom of the stage as officials and medics burst onto the scene to tend to the pair before we fast forward to the following Raw as yet more drama ensues between champion and challenger. Batista, being interviewed by Maria suddenly gets SMASHED FROM BEHIND BY KANE!! The Big Red Machine and the World Champion going toe to toe in a straight up fight backstage. We see Kane grab the Animal by the back of the head, CRASHING IT RIGHT INTO THE WALL BACKSTAGE!!

There’s more quick fire shots of the two brawling across the arena, we see officials trying to separate the two, the entire backroom crew trying to come between the brawl but it’s no use as we then see things spill over towards ringside, ending in Kane delivering a THUNDEROUS Chokeslam through the announce table, leaving the champion a broken man.


Jim Ross: AH DAMN IT TO HELL!! WHAT IS GONNA STOP THESE TWO MEN?! LAST WEEK IT WAS THE STAGE, THIS WEEK IT’S OUR DAMN ANNOUNCE TABLE!! KANE AND BATISTA ARE NOT GONNA STOP UNTIL ONE OF ‘EM IS FORCED OUT THE DOOR COMPLETELY!!

A twisted smirk on the face of Kane is shown before we see Batista, eyes glazed over, completely laid out at the hands of his challenger. We then go to the office of Eric Bischoff who makes this major announcement.

Eric Bischoff: I’m tired of seeing all this chaos, all this carnage week after week and I don’t wanna see it again at Unforgiven. Instead I’m gonna make sure they settle things the way they wanna settle it. Face to face, man to man, nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, an Animal and a Monster…LOCKED INSIDE A FIFTEEN FOOT HIGH STEEL CAGE!!

We then see a Steel Cage being lowered, Batista and Kane snarling at one another before AGAIN going to war. Right hand after right hand, champion and challenger fighting their way up the ramp before we witness the shocking conclusion to this past Monday night on Raw where we see Batista deliver an INCREDIBLE BATISTABOMB OFF THE STAGE!! Taking himself down with the Big Red Machine as the next image is of both men completely fallen, no sign of life, no sign of movement before we hear from Mr.Hard Sell himself, Jim Ross.

Jim Ross: JESUS…THEY…AHHH DAMN IT WE NEED SOME HELP!! BATISTA AND KANE HAVE…THEY MIGHTA JUST DAMN NEAR KILLED EACH OTHER!!

A final shot is then shown of a Steel Cage, Tista and Kane face to face once more, neither man flinching, neither man intimidated as the World Title is raised high in the air by the champion.

Jim Ross: Batista against Kane, it’s Animal verus Monster, two men who wanna beat the holy hell outta one another get to do exactly that and all I can say is Oklahoma better brace itself cos this one’s gonna get real ugly.

*End Video Package*

We then return ringside to hear…

‘BOOOOOM’

‘Slow Chemical’

Jim Ross:
Good god!! I think business is about to pick up folks. The Big Red Machine fell victim to one of the most devastating BatistaBombs I’ve ever seen this past Monday night and I think the look on Kane’s face says it all. He’s comin’ to Oklahoma tonight not just to win, not just to become World Champion, he’s comin’ here to finish off Batista…once and for all.

The Coach:
I couldn’t have said it any better J.R. Kane doesn’t just wanna have his hand raised in victory, he wants to hurt people, he wants to make ‘em suffer and after what you saw this past Monday, I think Batista’s gonna feel nothin’ like he’s ever felt before at the hands of the Big Red Machine.

Kane enters the cage, looking at his surroundings and looking almost happy to be locked inside this menacing structure before we get the arrival of the champion…

‘I Walk Alone’

And it’s a MASSIVE pop, the loudest of the night as out steps the Animal, the World Heavyweight Champion, Batista!! The man who conquered Triple H back at Wrestlemania to capture his first taste of the gold looks majorly fired up as he roars to the crowd before immediately locking eyes with Kane, the seven footer pacing inside the ring as he waits for the arrival of his bitter rival.

Jim Ross:
Well you might be right Coach, I think Batista IS in for the fight of his life here tonight by by gawd, you’d better believe Kane is in for his too. Batista wants to prove tonight that he’s the man, he wants to prove why you do NOT cage an Animal and get away lightly with it. Batista wants to retain his championship but he wants to make a HUGE statement here tonight.

The Coach:
He might wanna make a statement but I don’t think he’s gonna pull it off. That BatistaBomb this past Monday night, impressive sure but I think it took just as much outta Batista as it did Kane. Kane’s a monster J.R, he’s been in this kinda match, this kinda environment before and he THRIVES on it. This is a new challenge for Batista and I don’t think he’s got it in him, I really don’t.

Batista removes his title belt from around his waist, handing it to an official on the outside before stepping inside the demonic structure, the door being locked right behind him AS KANE COMES STRAIGHT AFTER THE ANIMAL AND THE FIGHT IS ON ALREADY HERE!! THESE TWO BITTER RIVALS NOT WASTING ANY TIME IN TEARING INTO ONE ANOTHER!! The bell now rings and we are OFFICIALLY under way.

World Heavyweight Championship: Steel Cage Match

Batista© vs Kane

There’s a real big time fight feel around the arena as these two bulls are off and running, right hand by Kane, right hand by Batista, Kane strikes, Batista strikes, the Monster digs, the Animal digs deeper and neither man seems to be getting the upper hand. It’s a straight up slug fest here as these two powerhouses continuing rocking each other back BEFORE KANE STRIKES WITH A STINGING UPPERCUT!! Finally we have a tiebreaker as Kane sends Tista stumbling and is now in hot pursuit of the champion. Kane spins the Animal around, big boot to the gut before an Irish whip into the corner and Kane comes steaming in BUT BATISTA GETS AN ELBOW UP!! Kane sent rocking back before turning right back around and GETS HIS HEAD TAKEN OFF WITH A THUNDEROUS CLOTHESLINE!! A pumped up Animal roars to the crowd who respond accordingly with a huge pop, the champion now right in control.

Tista heads right after his bitter rival, bringing him to his feet before striking with a big right hand, kick to the gut now from the Animal before grabbing Kane by the back of the head and BATISTA SMASHES KANE FACE FIRST INTO THE STEEL, NO!!! KANE BLOCKS IT!! The Big Red Machine stops himself from being thrown into the menacing structure and now nails an elbow into the gut of the champion. Repeated elbow strikes now from Kane as Batista is doubled over, the monster grabbing him by the back of the head and it’s KANE WHO GOES TO SMASH TISTA OFF THE STEEL BUT THE CHAMPION’S NOW THE ONE TO BLOCK IT!! Batista with elbows digging into Kane’s mid section, Irish whip follows from the champion, Kane rebounding and Tista sidesteps him and tosses him from behind FACE FIRST INTO THE CAGE!! KANE’S THE FIRST MAN TO TASTE THE STEEL!!

The Devil’s Favourite Demon stumbles away from the cage, a little dazed, not too sure where he is and Batista strikes with a kick to the gut, Irish whip to follow it up as Kane crashes into the turnbuckle, Tista following him right behind. BOOM, big shoulder to the gut from the champion, BANG, another huge shoulder as Kane cries out in pain, repeated, fast paced shoulders nailing the big man before another Irish whip with big time authority!! Kane hits the opposite turnbuckle and the Animal comes racing in BUT KANE STRIKES WITH A BIG BOOT!! The monster holds his face, the blow he took against the Cage taking a little out of him but the momentum now shifted in his favour as he’s taken the champion down.

Kane allows Batista some time, taking some of his own as he regroups before heading right back after his long time rival, dragging his fellow big man to his feet before striking with his trademark, a VICIOUS uppercut that rocks Tista back towards the ropes. Another strong right follows from Kane, Tista again falling aback, now leaning on the ropes before an Irish whip by the challenger, Tista quickly rebounds and Kane connects with a huge impact SIDEWALK SLAM!! Cover by Kane, the first of the match…

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2…

Kick out right on two from Batista!!

Kane sits up, looking a little frustrated…before beginning to smile? That twisted, eerie smile from the Big Red Machine as he brings himself to his feet now, hoisting Batista up with him in the process. A right hand to the ribs follows, Tista immediately wincing in pain as Kane strikes with repeated rights before a venomous boot to the mid section…BEFORE KANE THEN SMASHES THE ANIMAL’S SKULL INTO THE CAGE!!

Batista gets his first taste of the brutal structure as he ricochets back into the path of the awaiting monster who GRIPS TISTA ROUND THE THROAT!! CHOKESLAM INCOMING!! NO!! Tista with a kick to the knee, the left of knee of Kane and the monster buckles, his grip loosening as both men grab their weakened areas, the Animal his head, the Monster his knee as they then return right back to business, no time to waste here and it’s a STIFF right from the champion, Kane responding with a STIFF right of his own, this one is certainly not one for the faint hearted as Kane and Batista continue going hell for leather on one another here.

Both men are teetering but Batista fires back with another right, following that up with a kick to the gut, another right follows from the champion as he regains the advantage now. Irish whip from the Washington powerhouse, Kane however hangs onto the ropes and Tista comes all guns blazing after him BUT KANE WITH A BACK BODY DROP AND TISTA FLIES INTO THE CAGE, HIS BACK HAMMERING INTO THE STEEL AS THE KANE STRIKES WITH A HUGE MOVE!! The Big Red Machine quickly scrambles into a cover, sensing an opportunity as the champion is flattened…

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Kick out at two from Tista!! Big time pop from this intense crowd as the champion stays in the game, Kane not far off at all from taking the gold there however.

Kane now smells a big chance for him, with Tista’s back taking a hammering there as well as the punishment his, along with Kane’s lest we forget, body took on Monday night. Kane now firing away with relentless kicks to the back of Batista, vicious stomps as Tista cries out in pain, clutching his lower back with Kane really going to work now, the fans sensing that their man is in a world of trouble at present.

Kane now brings the Animal back up before yet another one of those big boots to the mid section, Tista doubled over and Kane smashes Tista across the lower back with a stiff strike followed up by another, all the life being sucked out of Dave Batista here as he sells the back injury to a tee. Irish whip now by Kane and Tista’s lower back crashes into the turnbuckle and Kane comes right back after him. BANG, big time corner clothesline, Tista dropping down and again clutching the lower back, Kane smirking in that demonic fashion, recognising that all the power is in hands right now.

We then hear from J.R and Coach with Coach telling us that ‘He’s got this, escape the cage Kane, take what’s yours big guy!’, only for J.R to point out that neither man WANTS to escape the cage, they don’t wanna take the easy way out tonight, they wanna beat the hell out of each other and put their opponent down and out. However, right on cue, Kane begins to climb the turnbuckle, Kane taking himself up, the crowd beginning to liven up again, perhaps in fear that the champion is about to lose his title. But Kane is NOT trying to escape!! Instead the Big Red Machine is simply headed up to the top rope!! Kane steadies himself, he’s primed and ready to fly as the Animal begins to rise, albeit very gingerly, clearly struggling as he turns around and KANE SOARS THROUGH THE SKY AND CONNECTS WITH A FLYING CLOTHELSINE!! Quickly into a cover…

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NO!! BATISTA JUST ABOUT GETS A SHOULDER UP!!

There’s an overwhelming sense of relief inside the Ford Center as Batista survives but only just, Kane coming within a whisker of tasting the World Title for only the second time in his storied career.

Kane cuts a frustrated figure, no sick smiles anymore, instead just an evil snarl as Batista lay unmoved in the centre of the ring. Kane picks himself up, dusts himself down, tending to his lower back also, the effects of the BatistaBomb on Monday night probably taking their toll on him also as he takes a moment to himself in the corner, Coach again egging him on to escape the cage but Kane showing no signs of wanting to do so.

Eventually the Big Red Machine trickles over to Batista, grabbing him by the back of the head and pulling him up to his feet. Striking from behind, again to the lower back, Kane doubles Batista over, now spinning him round before a big Irish whip, Batista rebounds and THE CHAMPION DIGS DEEP TO SCORE WITH A HUGE FLYING SHOULDER BLOCK!! Kane is floored, Tista taking himself down too but a turning point perhaps here for the Animal, a route back into this thing now after Kane’s prolonged spell of dominance.

The crowd are going wild, hopeful that this is the beginning of Batista’s march to victory. Both men begin to rise, it’s slow going though as the champion uses the ropes to bring himself up, Kane struggling back to his knees before slowly returning upright. Kane spins around and he’s met head on by a furious Animal, repeated rights again from the champion, lightening quick speed as Tista absolutely pummels his long time rival before a boot to the gut…SUPLEX FROM BATISTA!! NO!! Kane breaks free, Tista’s back perhaps giving way there as he immediately grabs it in pain, Kane now grabbing him from behind and HE RAMS TISTA’S FACE INTO THE CAGE!!

Major impact there as we see that KANE IS NOW GRINDING THE ANIMAL’S FACE UP AGAINST THE STEEL!! It’s tough to watch as Batista is crying out in pain, Kane refusing to let go, putting all the pressure on the back of the champion’s head, Tista’s face being driven into the steel. Kane then pulls the Animal’s head back before SMASHING IT IN DEVASTATING FASHION OFF THE STEEL!! Batista’s neck snapping back as we see that Batista has now been BUSTED OPEN!!

This hard hitting showdown takes another turn as the champion now sheds blood, Kane really in control of this contest, the crowd falling somewhat silent, recognising that this may be the end of their champion’s reign on top. Kane goes right back after the champion, spinning him round before another trademark uppercut, Tista looking completely uncoordinated right now as his legs wobble before we see a big time Irish whip by the monster, Batista rebounds and Kane grabs him by the throat, CHOKESLAM!! NO!! Batista fights it and elbows Kane away, hard elbows by the champion, showing there’s fight left in him as Kane toils away, he spins back round…TO SEE BATISTA COME STORMING IN WITH A SPEAR!! THE ANIMAL TEARS THE MONSTER IN HALF WITH A THUNDEROUS SPEAR FROM OUT OF NOWHERE!! Can he make the cover?!? Kane’s in trouble as the bloodied champion VERY slowly trickles across into a cover, hook of the leg…

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KICK OUT AT TWO AND A HALF FROM KANE!!

There’s groans and boos in the crowd as Batista fails to put away his rival there, Kane staying in this thing, the balance again shifting however as the Animal is now in control, picking himself up, albeit very groggily as he wipes the blood away from his face before he delivers…A THUMBS UP TO THE CROWD, THEY KNOW WHAT’S COMING!! Batista has intentions to finish this now as he begins to shake the ropes, he’s starting to feel it in a big way here as Kane slowly starts to rise. The Big Red Machine is up, he slowly turns around, boot to the gut from the champion, BATISTABOMB TIME!! BUT KANE FIGHTS IT!! KANE DIGGING HIS HEELS IN AND BATISTA JUST CAN’T PULL IT OFF AS KANE REVERSES WITH A BIG BACK BODY DROP!!

A close scare for Kane who looks a little surprised that Batista is back in contention here, angered almost as he holds his mid section, the Spear taking a lot out of him. Kane then looks up at the top of the cage…BEFORE BEGINNING TO SCALE UP HIGH!! KANE HAS SEEN ENOUGH!! J.R mentions that the near escape from the BatistaBomb may well have changed Kane’s tune here tonight, he may no longer wanna fight, it’s now all about taking home the World Heavyweight Championship.

Coach is screaming at Kane to climb, the fans are on their feet and are yelling at the top of their voices for Batista to get up, they fear the worst now as Kane climbs up, little by little, step by step, it’s slow going from the big man but he’s about half way there now as Batista begins to try and get back to his feet!! Kane doesn’t look at all comfortable climbing this fifteen foot high structure and it appears to be the only thing saving Batista and his title, the Animal now heading over towards his opponent as he grabs Kane’s right leg, trying to pull the monster down but Kane is hanging on, clutching to the cage for dear life as he tries to shake Tista off but the champion is clinging to Kane’s leg and now HE BEGINS TO CLIMB THE CAGE!!

The tension is building here in Oklahoma as both these powerhouses are climbing up high, Batista still trying to drag Kane off and down but Kane now strikes with a right hand!! Batista is hanging onto the cage, one hand the cage, one hand on Kane’s leg as Batista now swings a right hand of his own, releasing Kane’s leg in the process. It’s a fist fight approaching ten feet high in the sky…

Tista swinging…CONNECTING!!

Kane swinging back…CONNECTING!!

Batista now grabs Kane by the head and he CLUBS KANE’S FACE OFF THE STEEL, IS KANE GONNA DROP?!? NO!! HE HANGS ON!! Kane’s balance is going, he’s struggling to hang on, that shot dazing him as Batista grabs him by the head again, SMASHES HIS FACE FORWARD AGAIN BUT KANE BLOCKS IT!! The monster blocks it and elbows the Animal right into where he’s been busted open!! Tista now wobbles, he’s struggling for his balance, one hand clinging on for dear life, a wave of anticipation inside the Ford Centre as KANE NOW GOOZLES BATISTA!! OH GOOD GOD!! KANE’S GOT BATISTA SET…CHOKESLAM OFF THE DAMN CAGE!!!! BOTH MEN TAKING A NEAR TEN FEET FALL!!

‘HOLY SHIT’ chants begin to flutter, some of the crowd are absolutely pumped after that move, some are stunned, some are devastated as that may be the curtain call on the World Title reign of Batista!! Kane however isn’t moving, both men are down with J.R mentioning that Batista’s back, after all the punishment taken, may now be completely finished with once and for all. Kane is holding his mid section, the impact of the spear, the impact of recent weeks taking it out of him also as he begins to crawl, dragging himself across the ring, the referee is primed and in position as Kane’s almost there…he drapes an arm across the Animal’s chest…

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NO!!! SOMEHOW, SOMEWAY BATISTA SURVIVES!! THERE’S PANDEMONIUM INSIDE THE FORD CENTER!!

Kane can’t believe it, rolling off Batista and onto his back, looking up at the sky, shaking his head in disbelief as the crowd continues to roar wildly. Batista remains unmoved as the referee makes it clear to Kane that it was a two count. The seven footer slowly sits up, rising to his feet before beginning to pace around the ring, he looks as though he’s about to go into a frenzy as he puts his hands on his head, shaking it in sheer horror that Batista kicked out. Kane then kicks the bottom rope in frustration, screaming at the top of his lungs ‘THAT WAS IT, THAT WAS THREE’. Again the official makes it crystal clear it was two…AS KANE NOW DEMANDS THAT THE CAGE DOOR BE OPENED!!

Kane has had enough of the fight he came for tonight as one of the officials on the outside heads over to unlock the steel structure. Kane is demanding for him to get on with it but the official appears to be having a little trouble with opening it…BUT HE FINALLY UNLOCKS IT!! The door flies open as Kane now begins his demonic laugh again, he steps through the ropes, he’s headed out the door and headed towards the World Title…BUT BATISTA GRABS ONTO KANE’S LEFT LEG!! A big time pop as the Animal digs deep once more, not for the first time tonight as he hangs on, pulling Kane back, not letting slip of his opponent, not letting slip of his championship. Kane’s still trying to kick Batista off but it’s no use…Batista isn’t letting go here and Kane now decides to change tact.

The Monster now decides to head back towards Batista, the door now being shut back on him as Kane yells at Batista to ‘STAY DOWN’ before going to bring the fallen champion up but TISTA STRIKES WITH A RIGHT HAND TO THE RIBS!! BIG TIME RIGHTS AGAIN FROM THE RESILIENT CHAMPION!! The crowd come alive and so does the Animal as he connects with big time rights, knocking Kane back…BUT KANE STRIKES WITH A KNEE TO THE GUT!! Follows that up with another brutal knee to the mid section before an Irish whip… but Batista reverses it, Kane rebounds and TISTA CONNECTS WITH A NECKBREAKER!! Big time impact move from the Washington native and in the circumstances, HUGELY needed as he floors his, what was appearing to be, unstoppable opponent.

Batista is on his knees, holding his back again, clearly in pieces after the beating he’s sustained, trying to bring himself up and it’s a slow, seemingly gruelling process for the former Evolution man but he DOES indeed rise and it’s to a decent pop too as Batista now begins to climb!! There’s a buzz around the Ford Center as Batista, much like Kane prior has decided the punishment is enough, it’s now all about becoming, or in the Animal’s case, retaining the World Title.

Tista, again just like Kane prior to him, is slow to scale however, his size slowing him down as he tries to climb, tries to rise to the top, looking to reach the bottom but we see that Kane is now to one knee, using the ropes to pull himself up, trying desperately to get to his feet and keep his title hopes alive. We see that Batista is now almost to the top, he’s about another step away BUT KANE PACES OVER AND HE NOW BEGINS HEADING UP HIGH!! It’s a dangerous situation here as Batista and Kane are in a race to the top, Kane charging up the steel, a much faster pace than earlier as he senses the World Title slipping out of his grasp.

Batista now pulls himself up and HE HAS ONE LEG OVER THE TOP, TISTA IS SAT ON TOP OF THE CAGE, ALL HE NEEDS IS THE OTHER LEG AND HE’S ALL BUT THERE!! Tista tries to draw that other leg over, the crowd going crazy…BUT KANE GRABS IT!! KANE STOPS BATISTA FROM GETTING OVER THE TOP!! Kane now the one to cling on for dear life, Batista trying to kick him off, shake him away but Kane is holding on and is still climbing high. Kane now grabs onto the top of the Steel and he HOISTS HIMSELF UP THERE, JOINING BATISTA ON TOP OF THE STEEL!! It’s an EXTREMELY delicate position as Batista and Kane are both perched up high and the BATTLE BEGINS AGAIN!!

These two bulls slugging it out once more, a rivalry that has been all about hard hitting is NOT letting up here as Batista THUMPS Kane with a huge right, Kane BASHING Batista with a right of his own before the ANIMAL SMASHES KANE’S FACE OFF THE TOP OF THE CAGE!! Kane almost falls back and BATISTA STOPS KANE FROM FALLING!! THE CHAMPION ALMOST COST HIMSELF THERE AS WE SEE THAT KANE HAS NOW BEEN BUSTED OPEN FROM THAT NASTY IMPACT!!

Batista has a look of relief as he now tries to drag Kane down and off the top BUT KANE GRABS BATISTA BY THE BACK OF THE NECK AND CLUBS HIM FACE FIRST OFF THE STEEL NOW!! The Animal already busted open is hit right in the same spot and he begins to fall…BUT JUST LIKE BATISTA DID, KANE STOPS HIM FROM FALLING!! The Big Red Machine nearly throwing his hopes down the drain there as both men continue to teeter on top, the fans on the edge of their seats, not knowing which way this is gonna turn.

Both men are rocking back and forth as Kane pulls his right leg back inside the cage, both legs now inside, Batista doing likewise as Kane throws a right hand once again but Batista blocks it!! The champion striking with a right of his own now before shuffling down a touch, shifting over towards the monster and TISTA GRABS KANE ROUND THE BACK OF THE NECK…OH SURELY NOT…BATISTA FALLS BACKWARDS AND TAKES KANE DOWN WITH HIM, A FREAKIN’ SUPERPLEX RIGHT FROM THE TOP OF THE DAMN CAGE!!!!!!

‘HOLY SHIT’

‘HOLY SHIT’

‘HOLY SHIT’

There’s a genuine sense of shock as Batista delivers with a superplex from virtually the very top of this fifteen foot high Steel Cage!! The ring has shaken, the ARENA may very well have shaken as we see that Kane is absolutely laid out, not even a hint of movement from the Big Red Machine, Batista likewise, his lower back taking yet another pounding as both these beasts lay fallen, bloodied and battered, going to hell and back all for the World Heavyweight Championship!!

Well over a minute has now passed and neither man is showing any signs of life, the referee plodding around, checking on both men, not sure what to do, the crowd having died down a touch after that incredible drama are now picking back up and have begun a ‘BA-TIS-TA’ chant, trying to draw the champion up, will him back to his feet and we see that he IS now beginning to stir, even if it is just to his knees. Kane meanwhile is looking like he’s trying to roll over, a huge positive for the Monster that he can even think of getting back up, let alone do it. The Monster does indeed now roll across the ring a touch, getting onto his front and trying to scrape up to his knees, Batista is up to one knee, using the ropes to try and hoist himself up as he holds his lower back, still selling the effects of this brutal contest.

Tista now rises to his feet, hanging onto the ropes however, Kane up to one knee, both men still have blood across their faces, a gruesome image as the champion heads across to challenger, pulling him to his feet now before a boot to the gut, it’s slow going from both here as Tista now grabs Kane’s right arm, Irish whip but Kane reverses, the Animal rebounds and KANE GOOZLES HIM…TISTA SLIPS RIGHT OUT OF IT...spins Kane round, boot to the gut, BATISTA GOING FOR A BATISTABOMB!! NO!! Kane fights it and breaks Tista’s hold, losing his balance in the process as he stumbles backwards into the ropes but uses them as a springboard as he sprints forward…CLOTHESLINE…KANE SEES IT COMING AND TOSSES THE ANIMAL INTO THE STEEL!! BATISTA REBOUNDS…THE MONSTER WITH A GRIP AROUND THE THROAT…CHOKESLAM!!! CONNECTING!! THE FORD CENTER IS IN SHOCK!!! Cover by Kane…

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NEW CHAMPION!!!

NO!!!!! BATISTA KICKED OUT!!! THE ANIMAL SURVIVES TO THE LOUDEST OVATION OF THE NIGHT!!

Kane comes within a whisker of tasting the World Title again but is SOMEHOW denied by the sheer guts, the heart, the sheer will to win of a resilient Animal. Kane now sits up, a look of horror on his face, he can’t quite believe that he hasn’t walked out victorious there and then. Batista rolls over onto his front now, Coach is yelling on commentary for Kane to escape the cage but Kane seems to have other ideas!! The Big Red Machine is signalling for ANOTHER Chokeslam!! Batista is stirring but Kane doesn’t wanna waste another second and he heads after the champion. He drags Tista up, before scooping the Animal up in the air, Batista’s head between Kane’s legs, KANE’S GOING FOR A DAMN TOMBSTONE HERE!! BUT BATISTA COUNTERS!! BATISTA TURNS THE TABLES AND DELIVERS A RUTHLESS RUNNING POWERSLAM TO THE BIG RED MACHINE!! FINDING THE STRENGTH FROM SOMEWHERE AS THE CHAMPION SCRAMBLES INTO A COVER…

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3…

NO!! KANE JUST ABOUT GETS THE SHOULDER UP!! Batista almost pulling it out the bag with that incredible counter but Kane shows he’s got just as much fight as the champion left in him. Batista is now looking up with a sense of ‘What have I gotta do?’, bringing himself to his feet with the crowd urging him to escape the cage and retain his title but Tista has other ideas and suddenly looks around…BEFORE GIVING A THUMBS DOWN!! We saw a thumbs up earlier in the night but now Batista wants to really put an end to this thing. He heads over to the monster, goes to bring him up, BatistaBomb in mind BUT KANE STRIKES WITH A LOW BLOW!! A CHEAP SHOT BY KANE AND BATISTA CRUMPLES TO THE MAT…KANE MAY JUST HAVE SAVED HIMSELF!!

Tista is down on the mat, holding his nether regions in agony as Kane steadily rises, clutching his ribs, clearly struggling, the low blow his get out card as he now crawls across the ring on his knees shrieking at the official to ‘GET IT OPEN, GET THE DOOR’ and the official obliges, the door being opened, Kane about to escape this flat out war. Holding his ribs still, Kane scratches, claws his way across, he’s about to slide out BUT WE SEE BATISTA FROM OUT OF ABSOLUTELY NOWHERE FLY ONTO KANE AND STOP THE MONSTER IN HIS TRACKS!! The Animal practically falls onto Kane, the exhaustion, the pain is evident but it’s effective from the champion as both men are now down, side by side, fighting to get out the door which is still wide open.

Kane is again dragging himself across but Batista is doing likewise, the crowd are on the edge of their seats, it could go either way here as Kane stretches out an arm and grabs the steel steps on the outside!! Is Kane gonna claw his way to the World Title?! Batista somehow hurls himself over and he grabs the apron, is Batista gonna somehow get a grip, somehow pull his way out?! Kane is to his knees now, pulling himself up, Batista is doing the same damn thing, both have the same goal in mind as Kane goes to take a step out the cage and BATISTA SLAMS THE CAGE DOOR STRAIGHT INTO KANE’S SKULL!!! IT SOUNDED LIKE A DAMN GUN SHOT GOING OFF AS KANE’S FACE TAKES A BATTERING FROM THE STEEL!! The Monster drops like a fly, blood gushing from his face as Batista pulls himself up, out of breath, perhaps running out of ideas were it not for that bit of innovation, the door now closed on the champion and BATISTA WANTS TO FINISH THIS INSIDE THE RING!!

The Animal stumbles over to Kane, he drags the Big Red Machine to his feet, the arena is ready, they want their champion to finish things off in devastating fashion as Batista strikes with a boot to the gut…Kane’s head between his legs, the Monster may finally be slayed here…what goes up…MUST COME DOWN!! A DEVASTATING BATISTABOMB ON KANE!!! The champion falls away, his lower back perhaps giving out him off that impact but he musters up the strength to hurl himself over into a cover, through all the pain, all the blood, all the sheer brutality here tonight…a hook of the leg from Batista…

1…



2…



3…

HE GOT HIM!! BATISTA WINS IT!! BATISTA RETAINS THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE!!

Winner and STILL World Heavyweight Champion: Batista(19:22)​

The Animal rolls off of his fallen opponent, both men laid out in the centre of the ring as the cage is lifted back up, a scene of total and utter carnage here in Oklahoma with Batista coming out the victor in this hellacious battle.

Jim Ross:
An absolute WAR here tonight in Oklahoma City!! Batista and Kane have given everything to the cause, they’ve put their heart, their body, their soul on the line tonight and all for one thing, the Heavyweight Championship of the World!! And on this night it was Batista, it was the Animal who came out on top!!

The Coach:
Absolute brutality J.R. What we’ve just witnessed was a straight up FIGHT and hey, I don’t like Batista but even I gotta admit, that was one heck of a performance tonight, from him and from the Big Red Machine.

Jim Ross:
One heck of an effort indeed. We saw it all out there tonight, a Chokeslam off the damn cage, a Superplex from the top of the steel structure, an absolute bloodbath at times before an EMPHATIC BatistaBomb saw the champion home. It has been an incredible night folks and the road to Survivor Series now begins and it begins with the Animal STILL on top of the food chain!! Thank you for joining us everybody!! Goodnight!!

The show closes with Batista being handed the World Heavyweight Title, rising to his feet, blood etched across his face, a look of sheer exhaustion as he raises his title high before stumbling towards the top rope before rising up high and hoisting his championship aloft in victory, the fans in Oklahoma on their feet as we slowly fade…to…black.​
 
#242 ·
While unspectacular, the opening video sure did set the stage for the night ahead, giving ample time to hype the main selling points of the show.

Benjamin vs. Jindrak is as good a choice as any to open the show, and good use of Benjamins incredible athleticism in those early stages to get the crowd warmed up good and proper. Lots of outside influence throughout, although the story was always how Haas would help/hinder his partner. Nice tease of a heel turn when Haas suddenly spun Benjamin around on the outside … to give him a thumbs up. The descriptions throughout of Haas and his body language throughout the match was quite interesting, with him deep in thought early on, before coming around a little more to help Benjamin when he needed it.

As for the actual in ring action, it wasn’t anything overly special or memorable, but it didn’t need to be. The focus was on the interference / influence of the outside forces, and how they would shape the match - and interestingly, Haas SAVED the title for Benjamin in the end, putting his foot on the ropes after the Knee Trembler. Haas then running from Regal and Jindrak - and the reaction from J.R and Coach - was telling too, with that distraction causing Jindrak in the end. I imagine Jindrak and Regal will demand (rightfully) that Jindrak gets a rematch, but I’ll look forward to hearing what Haas has to say to Benjamin about doing him a huge favour - and how Benjamin will react to Haas helping him stay in the match too.

As I’ve said before, you’ve done a great job putting the Arabian Entity together. Great mesh of different talent, and it’s refreshing to see someone keep Hassan around, especially in such a major role on the Raw brand as one of it‘s top heels.

Given the frustration building for Lita, it makes sense for her to go batshit crazy on Victoria, all guns blazing from the get go. Thought she might have dominated a little longer before Victoria took control, but seeing as Victoria has been built so well as a dominant champion - plus Lita’s dodgy ankle - I guess it makes sense for the champ to take charge. Lots of ankle work by Victoria throughout, and really, it felt like Lita didn’t get much offence in at all, bar her early flurry, a small portion of the middle section of the match, and then the Twist of Fate at the end, before missing the Moonsault.

IMO, she maybe could’ve had a longer period of offence, with a few more near falls leading to the TOF, to add more reason to Victoria getting herself disqualified. Very newsworthy comeback from Trish too, coming to save Lita from what would’ve surely put her on the shelf for the foreseeable future. Victoria has been well built as champion, and the division seems to have been ticking over nicely, but Trish returning now is undoubtedly a shot in the arm for the women, and an eventual triple threat between the three most talented divas of the time would be great to see … at Survivor Series maybe???

The #1 Contender match could well end up being the match of the night, given the intertwining histories of all three men; Edge & Christian, Christian & Jericho, and the more recent Jericho and Edge feud. I’m always keen to see how other bookers start a triple threat, as I always find it tricky to get going with three men involved. For me, I would’ve rather seen Jericho go right for Edge, rather than the awkward stand off before going that route. Given their ongoing feud at present, it would’ve made sense for that to happen. It did make sense though for the two heels - especially as they are former partners - team up on Jericho, but I was glad it was only a brief reunion. I liked the fast pace early on, especially the sequence where Christian took Edge out of the equation on the outside, then got nailed with a baseball slide from Jericho. Another thing that can get irritating about triple threats is one guy sitting out a period of time whilst the other two have a one on one portion, but you didn’t overdo those periods, and kept all three guys involved for the most part. Lots of nods toward the ‘retired’ Ric Flair, with the back and forth chops involving Christian - so if there was any doubt that at some point we’ll see Flair return for revenge, I think that doubt is gone.

The Spear-Unprettier-Edgecution sequence was great too. Not only because I personally love seeing those sharp counters and counter-counters, but because it plays into the history of Edge and Christian, knowing each other so well, they are able to counter one anothers moves, and you played on that again later in the match. Loved, loved, LOVED the spot where Edge was looking for the Spear on Christian, only for Jericho to come from nowhere and not only prevent it, but apply the Walls on Edge … and then Christian then scored a roll up on Jericho for a near fall. Superb sequence. Although, as a minor criticism, the Walls could’ve been locked in a little longer to add some added suspense, before the roll up, plus, it would’ve explained why Edge was out of commission for so long after Jericho then applied the submission on Christian. Felt odd too, with Christian breaking the count on an inside cradle. Should Jericho really need saved from that spot??

As much as I raved about the earlier sequence with Jericho stopping a Spear on Christian with the Walls, the sequence of Jericho avoiding the Unprettier, hitting the Bulldog, missing the Lionsault then getting Speared by Edge undoubtedly topped it. If Christian should’ve broken up a fall, it should’ve been this one, as opposed to the earlier cradle. Not surprised to see you using the Tower of Doom spot, a staple in most triple threat matches. The way you kept all three involved for the majority of the contest is really commendable - something many people tend to struggle with when writing these matches, including the finish, as Jericho took out Edge (with yet another great counter spot) before Christian stole the win off an Unprettier. A tremendously written contest, filled with some brilliant spots and counters. And, despite the minor criticisms it’ll be hard to top this one as match of the night.

For some reason, the Shawn Michaels interview - to me - came off as a little hokey if I’m honest - but that was mainly the way Todd Grisham was written … so maybe you nailed it :side:. In all seriousness, I just thought the interviewer could’ve been written a little better to deal with his silent interviewee, or maybe just find a way to get the attention of HBK, then repeat his last question to get the one word answer. It felt a bit … y’know, with HBK ignoring everything, then replying to the last question only.

Must say, I really like the pairing of Doane and Nemeth (I know they had been paired as part of the Spirit Squad, but I’m talking as a proper tag team) as both were ready for the exposure to the main roster, but not quite as singles stars, so imo, bringing two guys in together as a team is a perfect way, rather than as a singles star that could get lost in the shuffle. And as a pair of cocky upstarts, I think that’s where they could be best used as. As for this match though, The Dudleys … are stale. I just failed to really invest in the match, and if you want to keep the Dudleys around, I suggest you try and do something to freshen up their act. What that could be beats me.

Also, if you’re using Nemeth as Nemeth and not Ziggler, it might make sense to call his finisher something other than Zig Zag … but not the Nick Nack :p. Odd that the Dudleys would be happy enough to retain the belts off a distraction from the Bashams, when they were surely beaten. Again, like the Dudleys, something might need done to make the Bashams a relevant team, as at best I’d call them a ‘serviceable’ pair, a decent tandem to have around, but hardly a team that should be at the forefront of the tag division. Hopefully this is just a slight delay in the PTP winning the titles, as they are by quite a distance the bright spot in the stale Raw tag division.

Typically strong promo from Batista. Such a great character to use as a tough as nails champion, and a win over Kane inside the cage ought to really solidify him as ‘the man’ so to speak - if he wasn’t already.

Without a doubt, the 4 on 1 match was the best built match coming into the PPV, and it was the one most people would be talking about. It felt very much like the type of performance Shawn Michaels pulled off at the Survivor Series in 2003 (a personal favourite) against the odds, so close … yet so far. On a personal note, I think it would’ve added more to the match if you had kept Khali out of it for longer - not just because he sucks, but because of the reaction you could imagine, once HBK eliminated Dutt, and Khali then stepped in the ring for the first time with the facials a bloodied HBK could’ve pulled upon going toe to toe with the seven footer. With the blood too, I think it might’ve been wise to hold off on it just a little longer, but you made sense of it, considering his head was already freshly stapled from last week, so it’s understandable why he would bleed so early.

As expected, Shawn got through three of the four, but beating all four would be just a bridge too far - especially since the GM had to meddle in the finish - such is his desperation to punish HBK. I could imagine just how HOT the crowd would‘ve been in the closing stages, with the Bischoff run in, the ref bump, the near fall, and of course, Sweet Chin Music to Eric himself … before the unhappy finish. While the outcome was slightly predictable, it still told a GREAT story, and continues the story of Michaels troubles in recent times - plus gives Hassan a MAJOR victory. I get the feeling you probably enjoyed writing this match the most, and it was great to read too. The question now is … what next for Michaels??

I see now that Benjamin didn’t even realise Haas saved the title for him until after the match, and while PPV’s are about matches - that was one hell of a promo from Haas, furthering the likelihood of an eventual heel turn. He has basically telegraphed it, talking about how he’d go to any lengths to keep the title if he WAS I.C Champ … so I guess Benjamin shouldn’t be surprised when Haas DOES go to any length when he takes the belt from him down the road ;)

The ‘Game Changer’ name is all kinds of awesome. I knew from your PM that the ‘surprise’ opponent might be a bit of a disappointment, and in all honesty … with it being Eugene again … it kinda was. But at the same time, that’s okay, because it was never built up as something huge, so no one can have any complaints that it was built to be something it wasn’t. With a new alliance with Goldust, I expect a comedic tag team in the future to give both men something to do - which is fine by me, if it means Kennedy will finally move on from his Eugene ‘feud’, and onto something else - and I imagine there is MUCH bigger things in the pipeline for Kennedy, as he’s already on a tear since his debut. It’s the best use I’ve seen of the Kennedy character in a BTB for sure - but he does need a step up in competition now ;).

The out and out brawl to start the cage match was the only logical way to start proceedings, given how personal and hard hitting the entire feud has been from the start. And boy, it didn’t take long for the thing to break down and get the steel involved, did it? Good that Batista was the one to win the first duel, ramming Kane into the steel. You wrote a very hard hitting match up, with no feeling out process or settling in before getting to the big business end of the match, with Kane busting out a big boot early, and a big sidewalk. Batista being back body dropped into the cage sounded nasty. Very pleasing to read that neither man wanted to simply escape and win - they wanted to win by the proper method, and gain an undisputable win over their rival - the way it should be in the feud ending match. A great write up with Kane taking it to Batista, Batista absorbing it all, even being busted open, and coming back strong - the mark of a champion. I know I say it earlier, but Batista is such a great character to use as a strong face champion. While Cena comes off as superman when he makes big comebacks, Batista just seems more believable when making a big comeback.

Slightly disappointing to see Kane (kinda) cry off after narrowly avoiding the Batista Bomb and trying to escape the cage instead. I really liked the idea of the two men - regardless of the face/heel divide - wanting to beat the shit out of each other as the feud ender. Saying that, from the following super-Chokeslam spot, I can see that Kane climbing the cage to escape was a necessary evil, in order to set up the sick spot. The duel at the top of the cage would be great to see too, with the two monsters battling to and fro for supremacy, before ANOTHER huge spot with the Superplex. I’m glad you let them settle, and draw out the pop for over a minute - a spot that big from such big guys needs to be sold like that imo. After what they’ve put themselves through - both in this match and in recent weeks - I don’t think a simple Chokeslam or Batista Bomb will get the job done … and the Chokeslam sure didn’t. Something I didn’t quite like was the scramble between the pair at the door leading to Batista slamming the door on Kane and the eventual (third time lucky) Batista Bomb to bring the curtain down on what was, honestly, quite the (surprisingly) epic rivalry.

The finish fell a little flat to me and it’s down to that fact that as I had mentioned before, with all the hell Kane and Batista put each other through (and the massive stunts in recent weeks) I felt the finish needed to be something over the top like a Batista Bomb off the top rope, catching Kane maybe when he was trying to climb the cage. Would that have been too much?? I guess, maybe, but personally, I would’ve went with something along those lines to end the feud with an almighty bang - maybe even have Kane drag the steps into the ring when Batista was pulling him back in, and lead to the final Batista Bomb on the steps?? Something like that - out of the ordinary. Still, not a knock on the match, it was a great steel cage war, to cap off - as previously mentioned - a surprisingly epic rivalry.

Overall, I’ll keep it short and sweet - the effort was immense, and imo, it paid off with another strong show, with three great (and in different ways too) matches in the three ‘big’ ones, and that’s all we - as readers - can ask for. Moneys worth?? Absolutely. Still work to do to improve, but all in all, has to be said; Great job. (Y)
 
#243 ·
Unforgiven Feedback

I thought you would go with this one as the opener, and it certainly delivered as a pretty fast paced, high action match to get the crowd into things. I think the outcome was never really in doubt, it was always going to be a Benjamin win, but of course the real story here is the actions of Charlie Haas. From placing Benjamin's foot on the rope to then running from the chase of Regal, it was definitely an intriguing of him. The match itself was pretty solid, plenty of good action, but your use of Haas was probably the most interesting part of it all. One thing though, post match, I'd have loved to see a two on one beating of Shelton by Regal and Jindrak, with Haas already backstage and not returning for the save. That would have been a great little move to add even more to the bubbling under Haas/Benjamin story.

Standard stuff from Bischoff and The Entity here, and while I agree that they'll be victorious, I can't see this being the end of Shawn Michaels, or this storyline for that matter. Much more to come imo.

Wow, can honestly say I don't think I've ever seen a Women's Match end with a steel chair shot, so kudos on that. Although it was a bit strange that there seemed to be only one pinfall attempt in the entire match. Anyway, the ending and post match were nicely done, and if Trish is brought back into the title hunt, a triple threat between the three would be pretty awesome. No real complaints here, perhaps the match write up needed a bit more pacing to it, but overall, a pretty solid storyline advancement for the women's division.

Given his huge win at SummerSlam and the fact that he's clearly a character on the rise, Christian was always going to win this one. I felt like you used all three men well, a trio of talented individuals and you kept the action moving along at a pretty frantic pace. One thing I wasn't so sure of would be that I haven't a clue how you break up a walls of Jericho with a rollup from behind. The image in my head just seems so... awkward. An inside cradle from the front maybe, but I think there could have been a better way to break the hold and transition into a dramatic pinfall. Anyway, a fun match, full of high paced, dramatic action, and with the right man winning. Nothing wrong with this, real good stuff.

While we share a similar writing style with regards to Michaels, it's hard for me to imagine him acting like this as a face. And I'd have liked to have known the crowd's response to his eventual one word answer. Was there a pop to show he's still a fan favourite? Or maybe an awkward silence to show something else? I think you should've added that in here.

Interesting altercation between Kennedy and Bischoff, mainly because Bischoff was pretty much spot on in what he said. It was an open challenge, not really anything to do with him. Kennedy obviously has a right to feel frustrated, but I can't see him taking it out on Bischoff any time soon. Obviously something that looks like it'll develop on Raw over the next few weeks, but it was kinda weird to see it here.

I thought for sure we were gonna have new tag champs, as I thought you were pretty high on Nemeth and Doane. So far this is the first match outcome that I disagree with. The match itself was pretty solid, it certainly was a good showcase for the relative newcomers, but the ending... while it may have been a case of the Basham's living up to their word, I still don't see who really benefited from it. Dudley's got a cheap win, Platform got screwed, and the Basham's got... well, I dunno yet. Does this mean they're next in line? Some work to do to pull this whole angle back around imo,

Rebounded with the Batista interview, I thought that was really well written. You did a good job of getting across that real sense of hatred that's developed between 'Tista and Kane, and how determined the champ was to retain. Pretty good stuff here.

And another really good job with the Michaels/Entity match. I thought this was booked to absolute perfection, with Michaels mowing down the lackeys only to come up short against Hassan. It may have been the obvious move, but it was the right one as it worked very well. The drama at the end was really first rate, and I loved how desperate Bischoff was, only for him to take a shot to the face. And then of course, Hassan gets a massive career enhancing win. This was really great stuff, just so well booked and executed perfectly. I'm sure we'll see Michaels involved in Survivor Series if that earlier video is anything to go by, but now Hassan has a chance to join Christian in the hunt to be Batista's next challenger. Match of the night so far right here.

I'm giving myself a pat on the back for saying Goldust would be Kennedy's opponent, even it was just another Eugene impersonation. Not really a whole lot to say with Kennedy taking the win, other than I hope his adventures with Eugene are now at an end and we can see him engage in something a bit more meaningful.

Another strong promo, this time from Christian, but while I agree that there's much more to come from him, I'm yet to be convinced he'll be the man to end Batista's reign. Perhaps that's what you've got in store over the next few weeks. And are we to assume that Christian's title shot will be at Survivor Series? Some clarification on that on Raw tomorrow would be appreciated.

And now main event time. I dunno why, as it was a pretty standard statement to make, but that line from J.R. about how neither man wanted to escape, they'd rather stay and hurt the other was pretty chilling giving the context. The chokeslam from the top of the cage sounded insane, as did the superplex, some pretty crazy, high risk stunts given the two men involved in the match. And finally, a Batista bomb to finish things off. Pretty emphatic stuff from the champion, and given that this finish lacked the controversy of the SummerSlam one, I take it this feud is over with. Batista continues to go from strenght to strenght as Raw's main guy, whereas I wonder what could be next for Kane. He's been used so well these last few months it would be a shame to see him drift down the card, so hopefully you've got something good in mind for him. But yeah, a great main event, very dramatic and full of some really nice spots, and of course, the right won.

Overall, I thought this was a great effort, not up there with SummerSlam, but a fantastic read all the same. Great stuff, more of the same moving forward, No Mercy should be another top read.
 
#245 ·
That was quite a read. Granted I skimmed through some of it just because of the sheer volume, but all in all it was a great pay per view from top to bottom. Some sure-fire wins and some surprises always make it special. I was quite shocked to see Christian walk out of that triple threat victorious, but that certainly gives him a huge platform going forward. The same can be said for the Arabian Entity...I absolutely loved how that match was written. There wasn't anything really off about this pay per view, I was hoping for a better opponent for Kennedy's open challenge, but it certainly was a nice laugh at how it all transpired.
 
#246 ·
Christian vs Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship if that happens, Batista I see him easily beating Christian because Batista has his size, his strength, his physical dominance but Christian has his speed and his intelligence but at the same time I think this feud is already personal or it will be because of Ric Flair in the fact that Christian retired Flair

But I wonder if Bischoff just for the hell of it just to stack the odds against Batista, Bischoff decides to make it a Triple-Threat Match for the World Heavyweight Championship between Batista, Christian and Kane, or a Fatal 4-Way with Batista vs Christian vs Kane vs Jericho

And hopefully if and when Triple H does return, Triple H and Shawn Michaels can reunite DX, a D-Generation X reunion please God!!!!!!!!!
 
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