Re: C3K Presents: WWE 2009 - The Fear That's In Your Eyes
WWE Friday Night SmackDown | 12 June 09 | Greensboro, North Carolina
Beginning the show, we get a recap of what went down last week between John Cena and Matt Hardy, the two brawling backstage before the World Heavyweight Championship match, and when it comes about – Hardy attacks Cena from behind and scores the easy win after brutally beating him up before the match.
Opening Video
Pyro
Jim Ross: Ladies and gentleman ... WELCOME to Friday Night SmackDown ... coming to you from Greensboro, North Carolina. Hello, my name is good ol’ J.R, Jim Ross and my partner as always ... John Bradshaw Layfield.
JBL: After last week J.R, I cannot wait to see what goes down tonight, a lot of things were set in motion last week, the World Heavyweight Champion; Matt Hardy justifiably attacked John Cena before their match and R-Truth done the right thing by leaving his partner, Kofi Kingston.
Jim Ross: Well, I don’t agree with you at all there, but we’re no doubt going to see some more fallout from everything that happened last week as the road to WWE The Bash continues.
***MY TIME IS NOW***
As always, the mixed reaction greets the arrival of John Cena as he jogs onto the stage. Stopping at the top and saluting before sprinting down the ramp.
Jim Ross: And it appears we are wasting no time, I want answers, you want answers, and I bet this man wants answers for what Hardy done last week.
JBL: Everybody knows why Matt done what he did ... he was being unfairly treated by our SmackDown General Manager ... a lot of Superstars have. I’ve been on the receiving end of Theodore Long’s bias a lot in my career, I know why the likes of Matt Hardy, Chris Jericho, Brian Kendrick and R-Truth are angry with him.
Jim Ross: I’ve known Teddy Long for a long time, and I know he isn’t bias to ANY WWE Superstar.
JBL: Get your head out of the clouds J.R, you hated it when Bischoff was running Raw because he was bias, well newsflash ... Theodore Long is just as bad ... if not worse.
Cena now has a microphone but has to wait for the crowd to die down.
John Cena: WOW!!
This elicits another mixed reaction.
John Cena: You guys are on FIRE t’night!!
Another huge but mixed reaction.
John Cena: And I know why ... because THIS IS FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!!
Stop with the cheap pops/heat, dude.
John Cena: Friday Night SmackDown where the toughest Superstar’s compete ... and Matt Hardy.
The fans respond with a mixture of heat and cheers towards as Matt is from NC.
John Cena: Our World Heavyweight Champion, Matt Hardy ... can we really be proud of our champion considering he hides from fights ... a Superstar who if he doesn’t want to face you, he’ll attack you from behind and pick up the easy victory??
Cena shakes his head.
John Cena: Nah, we can’t be proud of that. Last week ... I was set to win back the World Heavyweight Championship, I was ready, I WAS PUMPED but then ... then Matthew attacked me from behind. Threw me into barricades ... steel posts ... then hit me with what he is now calling The Twist of Hate and retained his title. Lemme’ tell you ... I wasn’t best pleased ... for the past week I’ve been moping around. But then I thought, why?? I’ll get my hands on Matt Hardy soon enough.
Pop from the crowd.
John Cena: Matthew became World Heavyweight Champion ... credit to ‘im but he went about it the COMPLETE wrong way. Turnin’ his back on his family ... turnin’ his back on his brother ... turning his back on you.
Boos this time from the crowd.
John Cena: Something I have NEVER done ... even though some of you boo me ... but that’s fine with me because you paid for your tickets and you can act how the hell you want. And I love it ... I love the boos ... I love the cheers ... I don’t care if it’s “CENA SUCKS” or “LET’S GO CENA” ... as long as you people are enjoyin’ the show then it don’t matter to me.
Cena pounds his shirt where his heart is.
John Cena: I come out here each and every week to put on a show for you people because that’s what I love to do.
Mixed reaction again, Cena points to a guy in the front row who has a “CENA SUCKS” sign and a “WE HATE CENA” tee.
John Cena: Love you too.
This gets a cheer from the fans surrounding the guy but the guy shakes his head.
John Cena: There’s been A LOT of talk in the back recently.
Cena shakes his head.
John Cena: About our SmackDown GM, Teddy Long.
Nice enough pop.
John Cena: There are A LOT of Superstars in the back who say our General Manager is bias towards certain members of the roster.
Cena shrugs.
John Cena: I can’t say I’ve noticed that, have you guys??
The fans respond with boos, signifying they haven’t.
John Cena: This man at ringside-
Cena points at JBL.
John Cena: He believes it.
{JBL: You’re DAMN right I do!!}
John Cena: R-Truth started this WHOLE thing ... Chris Jericho’s always had a thing for conspiracy theories ... channelling Jesse Ventura I think.
Pause.
John Cena: Evan Spanky- uh ... Brian Kendrick has bandwagoned on it. And THEN ... then there’s our World Champion ... Matt Hardy who says that Teddy Long is biased towards me??
Boos.
John Cena: He says the only reason I got the World Title match last week because I ... apparently ... suck up to him. Nah ... that’s totally false, I’ve never sucked up to anyone, I have what I got because I worked for it. The reason I got that match ... Matt ... is because I invoked a little thing called the rematch clause. But after what happened last week ... I had my match ... and because of YOU ... Matt, I used up my chance.
Heat.
John Cena: But hey, I bet you all would love to see a World Heavyweight Championship match tonight??
Pop.
John Cena: No I said ... I BET YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE A WORLD TITLE MATCH TONIGHT??
Even bigger cheer this time which makes Cena smile, he turns to the stage.
John Cena: So how about it, Matt ... why don’t you put your title on the line, in your home state ... how about it, defend that title ... AGAINST ME!!
Huge pop as we begin to wait for Matt’s answer but ...
***MAN ON FIRE***
KANE?? It is, The Big Red Monster walks onto the stage, receiving a lot of heat before finally reaching the ring. Cena stands his ground though, not backing down from the huge guy in front of him, and we now see that Kane has a microphone in hand.
Kane: I’ve decimated CM Punk-
Boos for that.
Kane: I’ve destroyed Christian-
Louder boos for that.
Kane: I’ve ... we have taught Edge a lesson.
The boos continue to reign down as Kane smirks but Cena remains stone faced, staring into the eyes of Kane, the two are literally only a couple of inches away from each other.
Kane: And now only YOU ... stand in my ... stand in OUR way of becoming the World Heavyweight Champion, we deserve the shot at Matt Hardy’s title ... not you.
The two men continue to go face to face.
Kane: And I ... we have no problem DESTROYING you tonight and laying claim to that title.
Heat directed at Kane, while Cena remains stone faced.
John Cena: I have no idea what is with you recently ... but y’know me ... ya’ want some ... COME GET SOME!!!
The two men now go even closer to each other, an inch apart, the crowd begin cheering as they can feel they are going to see a fight break out with J.R hyping it up as so.
***MACMILLITANT***
The fans die down now that the buzzkill of a General Manager saunters out onto the stage, but neither man faces him, they’re still focused on each other.
Theodore Long: Now hold up a second here playas’.
Long pauses.
Theodore Long: I got a couple of announcements to make playas ... now listen up ... ‘cause you both are gonna’ want to hear this.
Kane and Cena continue to face off.
Theodore Long: T’night, the World Heavyweight Champion Matt Hardy-
A lot of heat.
Theodore Long: Will go one on one with ... BOBBY LASHLEY!!
Huge pop at the big match made as Long smirks.
Theodore Long: And not only that ... but our MAIN EVENT for the night will be ... KANE versus ... JOHN CENA ... and the winner will face Matt Hardy for the World Heavyweight Championship at THE BASH!! YA FEEL THAT ... PLAYAS!!!
Massive pop this time as our main event is made as Cena grins while Kane backs off, laughing manically.
J.R: What a couple of matches made by our General Manager!! Cena and Kane ... Lashley and Hardy ... TONIGHT!!
JBL: A couple of fantastic matches made for tonight, I admit ... but that doesn’t change the fact that Theodore Long is a corrupt General Manager who needs to be replaced as soon as possible!!
Commercial Break
Backstage, and we’re with the United States Champion Kofi Kingston as he is doing some squats, in preparation for his match later tonight, but he stops and we see why as the camera pans out to reveal R-Truth! The crowd begin to boo Truth as Kingston walks towards him, pissed off after what his so called friend done to him last week.
R-Truth: Yo ... hold ... wait jus’ a sec man.
Kingston stops just a few inches away from Truth’s face.
Kofi Kingston: You wanna’ tell me why you hung me out to dry last week?? Why you left me high and dry in the middle of the ring?? Huh??
Truth shakes his head.
R-Truth: Kofi ... I ... las’ week I was frustrated an’ ... I dunno’ what came over me. All I want to say is ... I’m sorry man.
Kingston seems apprehensive at the apologie but Truth seems sincere.
Kofi Kingston: I get that you’re frustrated over what Teddy Long made you do at Judgment Day, I get it. But you have to understand, it isn’t my problem, this is your and Teddy’s beef ... and I don’t want to be involved. But if you’re serious ... then I accept your apology.
Truth nods and extends his hand, after a few moments Kingston grabs it and shakes it like a man. R-Truth then parts company by walking away, and Kingston grabs his championship and proceeds to turn a corner but then walks into The Gold Standard, Shelton Benjamin who gets some good heat from the crowd.
Shelton Benjamin: Ah ... if it isn’t the man who I beat t’night ... Kofi Kingston.
Kingston shakes his head and tries to push past Benjamin but Benji’ stops him.
Shelton Benjamin: Hold up ... what’s the rush?? I got somethin’ I need to say ... y’see by the end of the night Kofi ... you aren’t goin’ to be U.S Champion ... I am.
Kofi Kingston: Is that rig-
BAM!!
The champion is attacked from behind by ... MIKE KNOX!! Benjamin stands back and watches as Knox pulls Kingston to his feet and RUSHES HIM INTO A WALL HEADFIRST!! Jeers are now directed at the duo who stand above Kingston, as Benjamin reaches down and grabs the United States Title, holding it just above his opponents head, sending a message that he will be the next United States Champion!!
Cut to ringside.
Jim Ross: An absolutely heinous display by Shelton Benjamin and Mike Knox!
JBL: You call it heinous ... I call it smart. Softening Kingston up for later before Benjamin takes the United States Championship away from one of Teddy Long’s favourites!
Jim Ross: Shelton Benjamin doesn’t need to take out Kofi Kingston before the match to win the title, we know how good Benjamin is, he could have waited and done his talking in the ring.
JBL: He’s probably sick of being held back, a lot of Superstars are in that locker room, and only one man is to blame.
Jim Ross: (sighs) Teddy Long??
JBL: Got it in one.
***IT’S TIME***
Gregory Helms makes his entrance for the first match of the evening, getting a solid pop from his home state crowd here tonight.
Jim Ross: This match came about as a result of Brian Kendrick running his mouth last week and Gregory Helms took exception to that.
JBL: Something he should never have done, he needs to keep his nose out of Kendrick’s business and focus on the Cruiserweight Championship Tournament.
***MAN WITH A PLAN***
The ever cocky tag team champion, The Brian Kendrick saunters onto the stage, with the WWE Tag Team Title around his waist, no sign of Jackson though.
Jim Ross: Oh no ... do you see what I see??
JBL: What??
Jim Ross: He has a microphone.
JBL: HEY!! That’s a great thing! Brian Kendrick is one of the most entertaining Superstars on SmackDown, you should be glad when he has a microphone.
Kendrick now begins to speak as we walks down the ramp.
The Brian Kendrick: Y’see ... this is the problem with this brand. The problem with people who run this brand. They put THE Brian Kendrick in a match against this loser, who might I add actually comes from North Carolina.
Pop for that.
The Brian Kendrick: Don’t cheer that ... you should boo that ... this man right here is an example of everything which is wrong with this state.
It’s cheap but it’s effective.
The Brian Kendrick: Last week ... Greg ... you stuck your nose in my business ... and then our lovely assistant GM Layla made this match ... another example of the conspiracy and bias against me! Y’see Greg ... I shouldn’t have to beat you ... I should be preparing for my title defense whenever that may occur ... and you ... you should be getting ready to lose in the Crusierweight Title Tournament.
Boos while Helms shakes his head, Kendrick is now at the bottom of the steel steps.
The Brian Kendrick: A tournament that The Brian Kendrick isn’t involved in ... despite being eligible for it. Another prime example, just like R-Truth’s rematch clause being taken away from him, Matt Hardy having to defend his title last week ... I ... The Brian Kendrick is a victim of the SmackDown General Manager.
Even more boos, as Kendrick steps onto the apron.
The Brian Kendrick: And now I’m gonna’ have to take my frustrations out on this man ... this cretin from this lecherous state.
‘You suck’, the chants are audible which means Kendrick turns to the crowd.
The Brian Kendrick: HEY! HEY! SHUT UP!! I don’t suck ... The Brian Kendrick does not suck! You suck. Yeah that’s right you all suck.
More boos but they suddenly turn to cheers as Helms jogs over and grabs Kendrick ... pulling him over the top rope and into the ring as Jack Doan calls for the bell.
Match 1: Singles Match
Gregory Helms vs. The Brian Kendrick
We join this match a few minutes in, and after Helms had took advantage in the early going thanks to what happened before the bell, The Brian Kendrick took control when Helms went for a high risk move but crashed and burned. Kendrick from then on was in complete control, running through his arsenal of moves , showing why he is one of the most skilled Superstars on SmackDown. And with no Ezekiel Jackson to back him up, he showed that in fact, he didn’t need his associate to back him up in every match. While Kendrick got some near falls and locked in some submissions, the fans began getting behind the former Superhero, chanting his name and urging him on. Kendrick tried to shut the fans up, but that only spurred them on even more.
The WWE Tag Team Champion however witnessed Helms get a second wind, and Greg took it to Brian, utilizing some high octane offense, keeping Kendrick guessing by mixing up his arsenal. But it was all for naught, as the ending to the match came. Helms was going for a Shinning Wizard but Kendrick ducked it and then rolled Helms up from behind, holding the tights for more leverage and getting the win by way of cheating.
Winner: The Brian Kendrick @ 5.32
By hook or crook, Brian Kendrick has stolen the victory here tonight, sending the Carolina crowd into a frenzy of boos as he quickly rolls out the ring, with Helms springing to his feet and leaning over the ropes, telling Kendrick to get back down here.
Jim Ross: He stole!! Helms looked in complete control and Kendrick stole it! DAMN IT!
JBL: He shouldn’t even had been in this match!! Applause to THE Brian Kendrick ... he done what he had to do to win.
Kendrick disappears backstage as Helms shakes his head.
Commercial Break
Justin Roberts: The following contest is scheduled for one fall ... AND ... is for the UNITED STATES ... CHAMPIONSHIP!!
***AIN’T NO STOPPIN’ ME NOW***
On cue, The Gold Standard, Shelton Benjamin walks onto the stage, receiving a solid amount of heat as he continues down the ramp.
Jim Ross: This is gonna’ be a treat ... as quite possibly the most gifted athlete in all of WWE will take on the United States Champion.
JBL: And we know that Kingston isn’t at one hundred percent after the attack by Benjamin and Mike Knox earlier on tonight.
When Shelton reaches the bottom of the ramp, he stops and calls to the back, ushering out ... MIKE KNOX?? The man who helped Benjamin attack Kingston earlier is accompanying Shelton in this match, he stops on the stage before walking back and yanking out KELLY KELLY!! The crowd boo as Mike drags Kelly down the ramp and pulls her around the ring, making her sit on a steel chair as he stands by the apron.
Jim Ross: That’s disgusting ... the sooner Evan Bourne returns from injury the better!!
***SOS***
The United States Champion now hops onto the stage, but doesn’t bother with his pyro, he runs down the ramp, sliding, dropping the title and taking the fight to Shelton straight away!!
Match Two: UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP
Kofi Kingston © vs. Shelton Benjamin
Kingston took advantage in the early going, after his flurry of offense at the beginning which took Benjamin off his game, he slowed it down, and started working over the shoulder of Benjamin. Kingston seemed like a champion when he was utilizing his arsenal of moves and the crowd were reacting favourably to the U.S Champion. The high flying Superstar continued to dominate the early goings of the match until Benjamin managed to create some separation by sliding out of the ring. He started to catch his breath, and then was greeted by Mike Knox who started to give him a pep talk, but the talk was cut short when Kingston dived over the top rope, looking to land on both of them but only got Knox!!
Kingston didn’t seem worried by this, and even Kelly applauded from her seated position next to the announce table. But Kingston had let his guard down, which allowed The Gold Standard to level him with a running clothesline. Shelton from then on, showed why he could be a champion by using the barricade and announce table to his advantage, ramming his opponent into both. The challenger then rolled his opponent into the ring and got a near fall. The crowd were firmly behind Kofi, and this seemed to help him make a brief comeback, but thanks to a distraction from Knox, Shelton was right back in control.
It didn’t last long though, as we entered a stretch where the momentum shifted between the two men, both hitting some of their key moves, including the Boom Drop and even Shelton pulling out his old T-Bone Suplex for a near fall. The action seemed to slow as both men started getting winded, both were struggling for air as they battled on in what was to be a great TV championship bout. Thanks to some underhanded tactics, Benjamin took control once again, but this time he was smart about it and kept Kingston on the mat with his amateur wrestling skills, the high flyer was grounded.
Even though Benjamin is no slouch in the high flying department, he knew his best bet was to keep this on the ground and that’s just what happened until the fans began chanting Kofi’s name, this gave Kingston what seemed like a second wind. He managed to get to his feet and made a hot comeback, which drew the fans in, cheering and booing when Kingston would get some offense in and then only get a near fall. Kelly looked excited on the outside, while Knox would simply stare, shaking his head, wanting to see Kingston lose the title.
When Kingston was going for Trouble In Paradise, Knox got onto the apron and tried to distract Kofi, but he got levelled with a right forearm which sent him to the ground to the pleasure of Kelly. Kingston turned his attention to Benjamin and went for Trouble in Paradise but The Gold Standard ducked and swiftly turned around, planting his opponent with PayDirt, his finishing move!! Benjamin slowly crawled to the cover, draping his arm across Kingston, but as the referee was nearing the three, Kingston put his leg on the bottom rope, which drew a huge pop from the crowd.
Benjamin wasn’t happy about it though, and who could blame him, if he was more centred in the ring then he would be United States Champion. The Gold Standard argued with the referee, over and over, wasting time, but he didn’t notice Kingston climbing to his feet!! He turned around and received Trouble In Paradise to the face!! With the last ounce of strength, Kingston reached out and covered his opponent!!
Winner AND STILL UNITED STATES CHAMPION – KOFI KINGSTON @ 13.04
Jim Ross: HE’S DONE IT!! KINGSTON HAS RETAINED THE UNITED STATES TITLE!! Despite interference from Knox and all the cheating in the world by Benjamin ... KINGSTON IS STILL THE U.S CHAMPION!!
The U.S Champ’ rolls off his opponent and rises to his knees, hands on his thighs as he’s handed the United States Title.
JBL: I can’t quite believe it. Credit to Kingston, he done a great job by retaining that title.
Kofi climbs to his feet, and slowly walks over to the corner, climbing up the turnbuckle and raising the title above his head. Kingston brings it down and clutches it to his chest, smiling at the fans, and we even see that Kelly has cracked a smile as she has seen Knox get kicked in the head. Kingston drops down to the canvas, but doesn’t turn around for a second, catching his breath but when he does ... HE’S STEAMROLLED BY MIKE KNOX!!!
Jim Ross: OH!! What the?!
Knox, obviously recovered from that kick and is now pulling Kingston around the ring like a rag doll. He pushes him into the corner and hits him over and over with punches to the stomach ... and now Benjamin gets involved, instructing Knox to pull him out of the corner and holding him up.
JBL: Ha-ha ... I LOVE IT J.R!!
Jim Ross: How can you love this?? This is disgusting.
Benjamin smirks in the face of Kingston, telling him he won by pure luck, taking a pot shot at him by slapping him in the face. Knox grins as Benjamin tells him to hold him out while Kelly covers her mouth!! Benjamin grabs the United States Championship and gets into a good starting position and goes to HIT HIM WITH THE U.S .. .WAIT ...
***WHAT’S UP***
Jim Ross: FINALLY!! SOME HELP!!
R-TRUTH now sprints down the ramp, sliding into the ring, ducking a clothesline from Benjamin and clotheslining Knox over the top rope!! Knox lands on the mat where Kelly grins at him but the brawl is happening in the ring between Truth and Benjamin, obviously being the fresher man, R-Truth takes advantage and clotheslines The Gold Standard over the top rope!! Knox grabs Kelly and walks around the ring to Benjamin’s side as R-Truth helps Kingston to his feet.
JBL: What is he doing?! This was his chance to let Kingston suffer for what he did at Judgment Day!
Jim Ross: This is a great thing that R-Truth done, he saved the man who took his title, showing he respects him, showing he is still a good guy at heart.
The crowd now applaud R-Truth as he pulls Kofi to his feet, and hands him the United States Championship. R-Truth raises Kingston’s hand in the air, and the fans cheer once more as Benjamin and Knox disappear behind the curtain. R-Truth is about to leave the ring but Kingston extends his hand for handshake ... AND R-TRUTH SHAKES IT!
Jim Ross: Class. That is what you call class from these two ... HEY!!!
R-TRUTH SUDDENLY KICKS KINGSTON IN THE STOMACH ... REBOUNDS OFF THE ROPES AND CONNECTS WITH A CORKSCREW SCISSOR KICK TO THE BACK OF KINGSTON’S NECK!!
Jim Ross: What the hell is this?! What has he done?!
JBL: I LOVE IT ... THIS IS GREAT!!
The crowd have now totally turned on R-Truth. And he responds by shouting back at them, telling them it’s all Teddy Long’s fault. Truth angrily pulls Kingston to his feet, and THROWS HIM INTO THE RING POST BETWEEN THE TURNBUCKLES ... SHOULDER FIRST!! Truth yanks Kofi out and he collapses to the ground, holding his shoulder in pain. Truth grabs the United States Title, and keels down beside Kingston, telling him this belongs to him and it’s only a matter of time before he takes it back.
Jim Ross: What is wrong with R-Truth?? He’s gone insane, conspiracy theories, thinking the General Manager is out to get him, no, this is just wrong.
JBL: What are you talking about?? R-Truth lost his United States Title because the GM put him in a SEVEN man gauntlet ... he has every right to be angry.
Jim Ross: And why take it out on Kingston??
JBL: Because he was the one that benefited from Theodore Long’s obvious bias.
Truth exits the ring and backs up the ramp while Kingston is laying in the ring.
Commercial Break
Back from the break, we’re with Matt Striker who has a microphone in his grasp.
Matt Striker: My next guest is a former ECW Champion, a former multiple time tag team champion, and is the current World Heavyweight Champion ... I give to you ... Matt Hardy.
Huge heat as Matt Hardy walks into the shot, dressed in ring gear with the big gold belt on his shoulder.
Matt Striker: And Matt ... I wanted to ask you why you attacked John Cena last week ... because some say you only attacked him to get out of defending your World Heavyweight Championship??
Matt Hardy: Who?? Who are these people?
Matt Striker: Well ... uh ... from what I’ve heard, John Cena, most of the fans and Theodore Long.
Matt shakes his head.
Matt Hardy: Ah ... Theodore Long. The man who stuck me in that match, out of nothin’ but spite ... everyone knows by now how our esteemed General Manager treats his Superstars ... I am treated like dirt on this brand, I always have.
Hardy takes a pause, shaking his head.
Matt Hardy: And last week was MY night ... MY time. He ruined that. He came out and interrupted me ... to tell me that I was going to compete, defend my championship against the former champion. Later in the night ... John Cena said I was nothin’ but a paper champion, he disrespected me, just like Teddy Long disrespected me.
Boos.
Matt Hardy: So I ruined their main event ... I attacked John Cena and ruined Teddy’s idea of having a perfect main event. But if you look at what happened, despite attacking Cena, and despite Theodore Long treatin’ it like it never happened ... I have a pin fall victory over John Cena.
More heat.
Matt Hardy: What happens?? He goes out to the ring ... and gets ANOTHER chance to face me for my championship. John Cena gets shot after damn shot! While others are held back ... people like R-Truth, people like The Brian Kendrick. But y’know what ... despite all of this ... I hope John Cena defeats Kane t’night ... because if he faces me at The Bash ... I’ll do what I did last week ... pin him ... one, two, three and retain my championship.
Striker nods.
Matt Striker: And what about Bobby Lashley later?? Thoughts on facing him??
Matt Hardy: Again ... this is what Theodore Long wants. He wants to wear me down before I defend my championship at The Bash. But I’m gonna’ have the last laugh ... I’m goin’ to defeat Bobby Lashley ... then defeat either John Cena or Kane ... and show why I am the true World Champion ... NOT a paper champion.
And with that, Hardy turns around and exits the scene.
Now, we’re in Theodore Long’s office, where he is talking to The Brian Kendrick and Ezekiel Jackson. TBK still looks a little worn down from his match earlier.
The Brian Kendrick: Enough with the chit chat ... The Brian Kendrick has places to be and people to see ... hurry up and tell us why you called us here.
Theodore Long: Listen up playa’ ... I don’t appreciate your tone. So I suggest you get in line, or else.
Kendrick glances at Jackson.
The Brian Kendrick: Or else what??
Theodore Long: Y’know what playa ... since you seem to enjoy disrespecting people, especially me ... and since you cheated to win the match earlier t’night. You will go one on one with Gregory Helms playa ... next Thursday on Superstars and if you cheat again then you’ll get another match with him. Ya feel me playa??
Kendrick shakes his head while Jackson stays quiet.
The Brian Kendrick: Are you kiddin’ me?? Superstars?? The Brian Kendrick doesn’t compete on Superstars.
Theodore Long: Save it brother. I ain’t done. Next week ... LIVE on SmackDown ... you and Ezekiel will defend your WWE Tag Team Championships against The Lifeblood of Extreme!! Now holla back playa and get the hell out of my office.
Kendrick sighs while shaking his head. The two of them turn and exit the General Manager’s office as we cut to the arena.
***HELL WILL BE CALLING***
The big man, Bobby Lashley makes his entrance, complete with pyro and theatrics. Once in the ring, he bounces up and down, waiting for his opponent to show his face.
***HUNT YOU DOWN***
The World Heavyweight Champion now walks onto the stage, belt around his waist. He walks down the ramp, eyes set on Lashley.
Match Three: Non Title Match
Bobby Lashley vs. Matt Hardy
Lashley showed his power early on, taking the fight to the World Heavyweight Champion. He knew this was his chance to put his name right in the championship hunt and he took complete advantage, bullying Matt around the ring. This went on for the opening couple of minutes, which was the bulk of the match until Matt used his knowledge and experience to get back into it, side stepping a spear, sending Lashley into the ring post.
The World Champion then showed the viciousness that got him the title as he worked on Lashley, working on the shoulder, using any way he knew how to. Eventually the referee had to step in and warn the World Heavyweight Champion. When this was happening, Lashley exploded out of the corner and took Matt down with a Spear, getting a near fall, and from then on , Lashley was back in control, making a comeback.
Eventually, Lashley brought Matt up for The Dominator but Matt’s legs hit the temple of the referee, which actually looked on purpose. Lashley sees this and it distracts him long enough for Matt to wiggle off and low blow the big man! Matt seeing the referee was down, slid out of the ring and grabbed the World Title!! He slid back in and tried TO NAIL LASHLEY WITH THE TITLE ... BUT BOBBY DUCKED AND KICKED HIM IN THE STOMACH!!
Lashley bent down and picked up the title and SMASHED IT INTO THE FACE OF THE CHAMPION!! He threw it out of the ring and covered Matt, just as the referee was coming too. The three count slowly came and Bobby Lashley picked up a key victory!
Winner – Bobby Lashley @ 6.52
Jim Ross: OH MY GOD!! He got him!
JBL: NO NO NO NO!! He cheated!!
LASHLEY HAS PINNED THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION!! The big man rises to his feet, and walks over to the turnbuckle, raising his hands above his head, while Hardy rolls out of the ring quickly from the inside cradle. He shouts at Lashley who looks at him from his position in the corner, and moves his hands across his waist as Hardy is handed is World Title.
JBL: I can’t believe this! This match should be restarted ... no ... NO WAY!!
Jim Ross: Brilliant, Matt Hardy got his comeuppance tonight, after last week he has now lost this non title match, surely now Bobby Lashley can stake a claim to the World Title.
Commercial Break
~ V.P ~
~ LAST WEEK ~
Morrison hits the mat pretty hard and gets to his feet ... KICK TO THE GUT FROM JEFF ... TWIST OF FATE ... IT CONNECTS!!! Slowly but surely, Jeff drapes an arm over the chest of Morrison, 1 ... 2 ... 3!!!
Winner: Jeff Hardy @ 17.94
An absolute fantastic match ends with the fans applauding both men’s efforts, but it’s Jeff Hardy who picks up the victory, but he isn’t able to celebrate, too tired, and simply lies on the mat, next to his opponent.
JBL: You did say it’d be a fantastic match, and while I don’t like to praise Jeff Hardy all that much, it was just that, a fantastic match.
Jim Ross: John Morrison put up the fight of his life, but it wasn’t enough, next week John Morrison will take part in the Cruiserweight Tournament so hopefully this hasn’t took so much out of him.
Jeff has managed to climb to his feet, using the ropes for support, before slowly climbing the turnbuckle and raising his arms in the air. He drops down, and Morrison is standing a couple of feet away from him, and eventually the two men shake hands, to a huge pop. The two Superstars lift each other’s hands in the air. Morrison leaves the ring and walks up the ramp ... leaving the ring to Jeff ... but SUDDENLY JEFF TURNS AROUND INTO AN ATTACKER ... CODEBREAKER ... IT’S CHRIS JERICHO!!
JERICHO STANDS ABOVE JEFF BEFORE STOMPING ON HIM OVER AND OVER AS THE FANS BOO ... BUT SUDDENLY MORRISON COMES BACK ... STOPPING THE ATTACK AS JERICHO MAKES A SWIFT EXIT ... SMIRKING AS HE BACKS UP THE RAMP!!
~ END OF V.P ~
From the video package, we’re straight into the main arena for ...
***BREAK THE WALLS DOWN***
The arena erupts with a massive amount of heat as the ever hated Chris Jericho walks out from the back. Wearing a made to measure suit and a look of determination as he walks down the ramp.
Jim Ross: Last week, as you just saw ladies and gentleman, that man there attacked Jeff Hardy from behind for no reason whatsoever. And I hope we find out the reason just now.
JBL: He doesn’t need a reason ... HE’S THE BEST IN THE WORLD ... he can do what he wants!
Jericho grabs a microphone from the ring steps and climbs into the ring, standing in the middle, waiting for the fans to die down.
Chris Jericho: Since the people in the back showed what happened last week ... I wasn’t going to go over it again. But since everyone in this arena looks like they couldn’t add two plus two ... I’ll do that.
Huge heat for that cheap shot.
Chris Jericho: Last week ... I attacked Jeff Hardy.
Heat.
Chris Jericho: You people ... you hypocrites and tapeworms need to know ... he cost me MY World Heavyweight Championship. I was this (makes sign with his fingers) to becoming champion once more ... becoming the rightful champion.
Jericho surveys the arena.
Chris Jericho: That ... is why I attacked him last week.
Boos.
Chris Jericho: Jeff Hardy is exactly like you people ... hypocritical sycophants.
More heat.
Chris Jericho: Jeff became World Heavyweight Champion only because it was Edge that was holding the championship. It was my belt ... MINE! And still is ... Matt Hardy is only keeping it warm while I deal with matters such as this. Jeff Hardy is a cancer ... a cancer to this company ... with Jeff Hardy in it, this company is in severe danger.
Some confused expressions now on the faces of the audience.
Chris Jericho: One more strike and you’re out Jeff. What happens when that strike happens ... you do something stupid and are forced out of this company?? That brings bad press on me ... the rest of the locker room and the WWE. I am not going to allow that to happen ... I’m going to deal with you before your “habits” deal with you.
Boos from the crowd while J.R says that Jericho is going too far.
Chris Jericho: All these people cheer you Jeff because they see themselves in you.
Pop.
Chris Jericho: They are screw ups just like you.
Heat this time.
Chris Jericho: They boo me ... because they all know they aren’t as great as Chris Jericho.
More heat.
Chris Jericho: They know this because I am the best in the world at what I do. No one in this company or in the world can compare to me. The first ever Undisputed Champion, multiple time Intercontinental Champion and the rightful World Heavyweight Champion. Jeff Hardy??
Jericho pauses.
Chris Jericho: Is the epitome of second best. You are the epitome of what is wrong with this company ... and since Theodore Long won’t give me my rightful shot at the World Championship ... I will make sure you don’t screw this company over like so many others.
Heat.
Chris Jericho: People like The Rock-
Huge pop.
Chris Jericho: Who ran off to Hollywood when he realized he couldn’t handle me in this very ring. People like Steve Austin-
Another huge pop.
Chris Jericho: Who took his ball and went home. They all screwed the WWE over, and I can tell you are extremely close to doing the same thing, three strikes and you’re out ... and I can tell ... I can feel that third strike is coming. And I won’t allow that to happen. I am going to make sure it doesn’t-
***NO MORE WORDS***
Absolutely huge pop for the arrival of Jeff Hardy who walks onto the stage, wearing jeans and a cream leather jacket.
Jeff Hardy: We all know what you’re talking about Chris ... so why not just say it??
Jericho doesn’t answer.
Jeff Hardy: I’m not afraid ... hell ... everyone knows I’ve had my problems. And yeah you’re right ... one more and I’m out but I’ve put all that behind me. I’ve turned my life around when people said I couldn’t ... I’ve won World Titles when people said I couldn’t.
Huge pop.
Jeff Hardy: These people stand by me ... because I realize my mistakes ... I know where I went wrong and I mended those bridges that I burned.
The crowd now start up a small ‘Hardy’ chant.
Jeff Hardy: Did I almost screw my career ... my life up?? Yes. But I fixed it ... I fixed it for me ... for my family and for my fans.
Huge pop.
Jeff Hardy: The fans you turned your back on when you decided to start wearing suits and talking down to everyone. If anyone is a danger to this company ... it’s you.
Chris Jericho: Me?? How-
Jeff Hardy: Because when people turn on this show and see you in this ring ... they’ll switch the channel. Face it Chris ... you’re still riding off the success of being the first Undisputed Champion. And now you blame me for not being World Heavyweight Championship.
Hardy shakes his head.
Jeff Hardy: It was a Fatal four way, Chris, what did you expect me to do?? Let you win?? I lost that match too, or have you forgotten, I’m as much annoyed as you are, but do I complain to Teddy Long?? No. I came out here last week and stole the show with John Morrison, but you?? You attack me ... to do what?? Make a statement??
Jericho shakes his head.
Chris Jericho: Listen to me Jeff, you say you admit your mistakes, admit your downfalls and these fans love you for your honesty. I’m honest and yet these hypocrites boo me, I don’t admit my mistakes ... because I make none. I’m the best in the world at what I do ... and I deserve the World Heavyweight Championship, you took that away from me. I targeted you last week after Theodore Long shrugged my complaints off over his mediocre management. So if I can’t challenge for the World Championship, then I’m going to take my frustrations out on the man who cost me the belt. And that man?? He’s you.
Jeff Hardy: Well guess what?? You got my attention.
JEFF SUDDENLY DROPS THE MICROPHONE ... KICK TO THE STOMACH AND PLANTS JERICHO WITH THE TWIST OF FATE!!
The fans pop loudly as Hardy stands beside the fallen Jericho, smirking down before rolling him out the ring with a few kicks. Jeff now climbs the turnbuckle and extends his arms out with his signature pose.
Jim Ross: Chris Jericho sent a statement last week, and now Jeff Hardy has done the same thing this week.
JBL: That was a cheap shot! Jericho had no opportunity to defend himself!
Jim Ross: What was that last week then?? You never said that about Jericho attacking Jeff from behind.
No response from JBL as Jericho backs up the ramp, telling Jeff that this isn’t over.
Commercial Break
We return with Zack Ryder already in the ring, Curt Hawkins on the outside.
***STRICKEN***
The crowd respond with a nice cheer as Kaval walks out from behind the curtain, without DBryan or AJ.
Match 4: Cruiserweight Tournament Round 1
Kaval vs. Zack Ryder
This was a solid affair, and with Kaval still being relatively new to SmackDown, he got the most time to show off his moves but that doesn’t mean Ryder didn’t. The two men traded momentum throughout the match, getting the crowd involved with near fall after near fall. Kaval often went to the top rope while Ryder tried to keep the match on the ground. This continued for a few minutes until Ryder took complete control thanks to outside interference by his friend, Curt Hawkins.
Ryder locked in a sleeper hold on the smaller man, but with the fans behind him, Kaval pulled himself to his feet and made a swift comeback. He looked on the verge of winning when Hawkins tried to get to involved again but Kaval was smart to it and Roundhouse Kicked Hawkins off the apron!! With Ryder down and no more interference, Kaval climbed to the top rope and connected with Warriors Way and picking up the win!
Winner – Kaval @ 5.02
Kaval picks up the victory and has his hand raised by the referee before heading to the top of the turnbuckle.
BUT SUDDENLY HE’S PULLED DOWN BY ... CURT HAWKINS!!
Hawkins climbs on top of Kaval and levels him over and over with right fist after right fist. Eventually, Ryder manages to recover and walks over to the two of them, helping Hawkins on beating up Kaval. However, the crowd begin to buzz as the cameras catch DANIEL BRYAN sliding into the ring!!
Ryder meets him but is taken down, and Bryan does the same to Hawkins, before pulling him up and throwing him through the top and second ropes!! Ryder grabs Daniel by the back of the head, but he spins around and breaks his arm away ... spinning back kick to the gut!! Daniel then clotheslines Ryder over the top rope!! The Warriors stand tall tonight once more, and Kaval has progressed to the second round of the Cruiserweight Championship tournament!!
Hawkins and Ryder back up the ramp, shouting down “this isn’t over!”.
But now we head backstage where Dolph Ziggler is walking down a hall way, pink tee on which says “Show Off”. He’s stopped in place by the ever intrusive Matt Striker.
Matt Striker: Dolph, a moment of your time please??
Ziggler sighs but stands in place, waiting for the question.
Matt Striker: Next week, you’ll face off against Gregory Helms in the Semi-Finals of the Cruiserweight Tournament. Do you think you can defeat Greg-
Dolph Ziggler: Lemme’ stop you right there Matt. Do I think I can defeat Gregory Helms?? I KNOW I can defeat him. Gregory Helms had his time in the spotlight as Cruiserweight Champion, he was the longest running Cruiserweight Champion, but that will all change WHEN I become the champion and run through his record.
Ziggler pauses.
Dolph Ziggler: Right now, there’s Gregory Helms, Kaval and myself, and we’ll find out who is the fourth man later tonight, but it really doesn’t matter. The only man worthy to win this title is me. Dolph Ziggler. You see, I was this (makes sign) close to becoming the United States Champion, one of the men who I defeated was John Morrison ... so if I meet him in the final ... then it’s a foregone conclusion.
Heat.
Dolph Ziggler: As for Kaval?? I don’t even know why he’s in this tournament, he won’t be able to focus with Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins around, so if I meet him in the final, they’ll be not question who wins. So what I’m trying to say, Matt, is that Dolph Ziggler is going to be the Cruiserweight Champion.
Ziggler stares at Matt who simply nods before walking off.
Commercial Break
Back on SmackDown, we see the World Heavyweight Champion, Matt Hardy in Theodore Long’s office, talking with the General Manager.
Theodore Long: Look, calm down playa’.
Matt Hardy: NO! NO I WON’T!! You saw it, Long, Lashley cheated to win, he hit me with this title, you need to deal with it!
Hardy fumes as Long shakes his head.
Theodore Long: A title that you brought into the ring, as far as I’m concerned playa, that win on Lashley’s win column ... it stays, now believe that.
The champion clenches his teeth.
Matt Hardy: Oh I get it! It’s becoming more and more obvious, you personally signed Lashley to SmackDown once again, so he gets special treatment right?? Just like Kofi Kingston, Dreamer and Richards, Jeff Hardy and John Cena, they all get special treatment from the SmackDown General Manager. While guys like Chris Jericho, The Brian Kendrick, R-Truth and YOUR World Heavyweight Champion have to scrap and claw for every damn thing.
The crowd boo Matt but he keeps the intensity up.
Matt Hardy: So now you’ve cost me a match tonight, and you also gave John Cena ANOTHER chance at my championship. If he defeats Kane then he gets another shot, and then that just shows how biased you are, I defeated him last week, one two three in that very ring.
Boos.
Matt Hardy: You enjoy your time as General Manager, Teddy, because I’m sure when Vince McMahon gets back from injury, your time will come to an end. Because with the evidence that most these SmackDown Superstars have, you’re not gonna’ be General Manager again.
With those last stinging words, Hardy brushes past the General Manager, exiting the door while the camera focuses on Teddy’s expression of disgust.
And now we throw it to Matt Striker who is waiting with a microphone in his hand.
Matt Striker: Ladies and gentleman ... introducing my guests ... I give to you ... The Lifeblood of Extreme.
The camera pans out and the twosome are waiting for the questions, both with kendo sticks in their clutches.
Matt Striker: Earlier on tonight, we heard that you’ll face The Brian Kendrick and Ezekiel Jackson for the WWE Tag Team Championships after you, Tommy, defeated Kendrick last week. What do you make of your chances, heading into next week??
Dreamer looks at Richards who allows him to speak.
Tommy Dreamer: Our chances?? Our chances are pretty good, Matt, at least ... in my opinion. We’ve had a shot at them before, but by hook or crook, they retained their championships, credit to them. But we’ve come back, come back stronger than ever before. When we earned our shot last week, we proved we can hack it with WWE “Superstars”. And next week, these two “bingo hall rejects” will become WWE Tag Team Champions.
Richards now steps forward.
Stevie Richards: The Lifeblood of Extreme isn’t just a name Matt, it’s a way of life, it’s about showing extreme still runs through the wrestling world. We might be the last two standin’ in the WWE, but we will fight tooth and nail to make sure extreme lives in this company. For people like Sabu, The Sandman and Rob Van Dam.
Cheers for the mention of RVD.
Stevie Richards: For people like that, that helped build ECW, that helped show the world a different breed of wrestling.
Dreamer now steps forward again.
Tommy Dreamer: We know all of those extremists will be watching next week, and we’ll make them proud by becoming WWE ... Tag ... Team ... Champions.
Pop from the crowd while Dreamer and Richards step out of the interview set.
We now send it to the Raw Rebound.
RAW | REBOUND
~ LEGACY OPEN THE SHOW BY CONSOLIDATING THEIR RANKS, BUT CODY RHODES DISAPPEARS, AT THE HANDS OF THE UNDERTAKER??
~ RANDY ORTON SEARCHES THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT FOR CODY BUT FINDS TED LAID OUT BACKSTAGE.
~ HE SENDS FOR HELP BUT WHEN HE RETURNS, DIBIASE IS GONE.
~ IN THE MAIN EVENT, ORTON DEFEATS MVP BUT THEN THE UNDERTAKER APPEARS AND REVEALS RHODES AND DIBIASE, TIED UP ON CROSSES BESIDE THE STAGE.
Back to SmackDown ...
***AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE***
A good but nothing major response as John Morrison makes his way down to the ring, for this Cruiserweight Tournament Round One match.
Jim Ross: John Morrison last week took Jeff Hardy to his very limit, the two of them put on a hell of a show for everyone that watched that match, but this week, he has a chance to advance to the Semi-Finals in the Cruiserweight Championship Tournament.
***BISCUITS & GRAVY***
Yeah ... remember this guy?? Jesse makes his entrance without Festus this time, getting ready to face John Morrison in the first round of the Cruiserweight Title Tournament.
JBL: Wait a minute ... this guy still has a job?? And ... this guy is in the Cruiserweight Tournament but The Brian Kendrick isn’t?! And another thing ... he doesn’t even look like a Cruiserweight!
Jim Ross: According to the records, Jesse is two hundred and twenty pounds, so he does qualify for the Cruiserweght Championship.
Match 5: Cruiserweight Tournament Round 1
Jesse vs. John Morrison
Jesse was never in contention to win this match and he never really got going as Morrison took complete control in the early going. This match gave Morrison the avenue to show off his athletic style, and while Jesse got a tiny bit of offense near the end of the match, Morrison ended it by hitting a chuck kick and then connecting with Starship Pain from the top rope!
Winner – John Morrison @ 3.03
A routine win for John Morrison, advancing through to the Semi-Finals of the Cruiserweight Tournament – who climbs onto the second rope and raises his arm, receiving a good cheer.
Commercial Break
***
We see a black and white picture of a house.
Then we fade out and back to see quick fire shots of Brian Pillman and Davey Boy Smith
Narrator: Great men have trained there.
More shots of Bret Hart and Owen Hart.
Narrator: Some of the most talented Superstars have trained there.
A shot of three people in a black, shadowy room.
Narrator: Now the dungeon is no more.
Quick shots of the three people training in a darkened room.
Narrator: And the last three people to graduate.
The camera goes back to focusing on just them in the blackened room.
Narrator: Are coming to Friday Night SmackDown.
THE HART DYNASTY COMING SOON TO FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN
***
Friday Night SmackDown returns, and Jim Ross is currently in the ring with a microphone. He turns towards the stage and begins speaking.
Jim Ross: Ladies and gentleman ... please turn your attention towards the titan tron and welcome my guest ... from his home in Toronto, Canada ... Christian.
The fans cheer loudly as the titan tron switches on and the man himself, Captain Charisma appears on the screen, sat on a couch in front of a camera, microphone attached to the collar of his shirt. He smiles at the reaction but we can see that he looks worse for wear, he looks like he’s been drained of energy and is extremely pale.
Jim Ross: Christian, I know how tough this must be for you, and I appreciate you taking the time out of your recovery to speak to us here tonight. What I want to ask you, first of all, I’ve known you since you signed your first WWE Contract, but in all the years that you have competed in the WWE ... I’ve never seen the expression on your face when ... it ... happened at Judgment Day. The look of terror, of dread is something I’ve never seen from you, so what I want to ask, is do you remember anything from that night??
Captain Charisma takes a deep breath in, wincing at the pain his body has to endure, wipes his mouth before speaking, staring dead into the camera. He speaks with a rough voice.
Christian: The things that I remember ... I remember pulling into the arena and getting ready for the ... In ... Inferno match.
Christian runs his hand over his forehead, remembering what happened in said match as the fans wait respectfully for him to continue.
Christian: I remember gettin’ ready backstage ... walking into the Gorilla position, and hearin’ my music hit. I remember the goose bumps on my arms, I remember the thousands of Peeps cheering me on as I walked down the ramp. And then ... then ... the next thing I remember is climbin’ into the ring and staring across at The Monster, Kane.
The Leader of the Peeps allows the fans time to boo Kane, he takes a sip of water, struggling to swallow it before laying it down and continuing to speak.
Christian: Then that’s when it ended, I remember the bell ringing, the flames ... those huge flames shooting up from the ring. Seeing red engulf the arena ... seeing a monster across from me ... who thrived in that setting. J.R ... the feeling of being trapped ... of being trapped with a monster like Kane, that will live with me for the rest of my life.
Another pause from Christian while J.R nods.
Christian: The very last thing I remember is feeling the heat, feeling it ... it ... get hotter ... and hotter. And then it happened. The pain I experienced was nothin’ I have ever experienced, I could feel it, the searing pain of being ... of being ...
Deep breath from Captain Charisma.
Christian: Lit on fire.
The fans boo this and Christian stops to allow them too.
Christian: Everything went black ... I could still feel the heat, hear the crowd gasping but I couldn’t see anything. It was a whirlwind and eventually everything stopped, the feeling and the hearing, I passed out and that ... that was the last thing I remember from that night. I then woke up in hospital, wires in every place you could think off, bandaged up, and in severe pain.
Christian seems to be finished answering the question as J.R presses on.
Jim Ross: I appreciate how hard this must be to talk about, and I have to say – I sat at ringside, commenting on that match, and I can still see the look on your face when that fire hit your body, I remember the smell of flesh burning.
Christian visibly cringes.
Jim Ross: I remember you running past the announce booth in severe pain, you passing out before being taken to hospital by the paramedics. But the main thing that sticks in my mind from that night, is The Big Red Monster, Kane laughing as all of this happened.
The fans respond with boos directed at Kane while Christian nods.
Jim Ross: Like you, Christian, I’ve suffered at the hands of Kane, and just like you – lit on fire.
J.R looks down, remembering the time when Kane targeted him.
Jim Ross: The pain ladies and gentleman, like Christian says, it’s impossible to describe. I’ve been through a lot in my life, just like Christian, and never have I felt a pain like that, and I’m sorry that had to happen to you, Christian.
Captain Charisma nods almost apologetically.
Christian: I honestly appreciate that, if anyone knows how I felt ... it’s you. I’ve been through some huge matches, some of the most barbaric and dangerous matches in the history of this company. I’ve ... I’ve been through so much in my career, but Judgment Day was something else completely. The TLC matches, No Holds Barred matches, none of them come close to the Inferno match. I can’t walk without help ... I can’t go out with my wife because of the pain.
Christian takes a pause. The fans listen intently, not knowing how to respond.
Christian: And it’s all because of Kane.
Boos at the mention of The Big Red Monster.
Jim Ross: Uh ... well ... I’ve witnessed most of those matches you were talking about, but Christian – I’m sorry to ask you this, but what do you say to the people that say you brought this on yourself ... by challenging Kane to said Inferno Match??
The crowd give a little bit of heat at this statement but Christian remains calm.
Christian: You know somethin’ J.R?? I’ve done a lot of stupid things in my career. I’ve rapped on live TV, hell ... I even walked around pretendin’ to be a vampire.
Christian shakes a small laugh with the crowd.
Christian: None of that ... none of that compares to the mistake I made a few weeks ago. I thought ...
He grins, thinking of how stupid he was before re-focusing.
Christian: I thought I could get to the bottom of what was wrong with Kane ... by havin’ him on The Peep Show. Do I regret havin’ Kane on that show??
The Instant Classic takes a breather, looking down, rubbing his forehead. He looks back at the camera.
Christian: ... Yes.
Some boos from the crowd but J.R nods, understanding.
Christian: I regret it because it’s resulted in the worst pain of my life. A lot of people, includin’ you J.R, came to me backstage and told me that I was crazy for havin’ Kane on The Peep Show. They said I was mad. They were right.
Captain Charisma pauses.
Christian: I don’t know what it was ... morbid curiosity I guess. Sure ... Kane’s always been a little strange, but these past few months ... he’s took that to a whole other level. I was curious, I thought I could find out why he was acting this way. There isn’t a Demon inside of Kane, he’s not being controlled by something inside of him ... no ... he’s simply insane. I should have seen that from the start. I pushed the Monster and I got ... I got burned.
The crowd continue to listen intently.
Christian: I remember, Edge came up to me after The Peep Show and got in my face, called me crazy, he was right ... everyone was right. Even though Kane was the insane one, everyone said I was the insane one by targeting Kane after he Chokeslammed me.
Boos.
Christian: So what now??
Another pause as Christian leans forward. He shakes his head before speaking, almost defiantly.
Christian: I’m extremely beat up, I can barely move without wincin’ in pain. But I managed to watch SmackDown last week, what I saw Edge hold The Cutting Edge with ... with Kane. Edge suffered the same fate I did, he was Chokeslammed in the middle of that ring.
Christian points at the screen.
Christian: I’m tellin’ Edge right now ... take your own advice. Forget about Kane. Don’t try to get revenge for me. Despite regrettin’ gettin’ in the path of Kane ... people may think I’m out of the fire so to speak ... but I’m not done with Kane. If Edge wants to take issue with Kane then so be it.
J.R nods.
Christian: Edge is one of my best friends in this company, I’ve watched him rise to the top of this company, become World Champion but this ... but this is the biggest test of his career. I’ll be supportin’ him right the way through my recovery ... but make no mistake, some may think I’m crazy but I’m not done with Kane.
Christian pauses.
Christian: I may regret gettin’ involved with Kane, but I’m not gonna’ take what he done to me lying down. When I return to SmackDown ... whenever that may be ... Kane ... be ready because I know the Peeps will have my back. I’m making a beeline for you when I return ... and Kane ... this time ... this time you will suffer.
The crowd cheer extremely loudly.
Jim Ross: Well, uh ... thanks for your time Christian, and I think everyone here wants to wish you a speedy recovery.
The feed from Christian’s home now switches off as we focus on Jim Ross in the ring.
With J.R now exiting the ring, we cut away to a commercial break.
Commercial Break
***MAN ON FIRE***
Some good heat greets Kane as he walks down the ramp, looking extremely focused on the upcoming main event.
Jim Ross: This match came about after Kane and John Cena had a confrontation at the top of the show, which was stopped when Teddy Long came out and made this match.
***MY TIME IS NOW***
Again, a massive mixed reaction comes as John Cena jogs onto the stage. Saluting the crowd, before sprinting down the ramp and sliding into the ring.
MAIN EVENT: World Heavyweight Championship #1 Contenders Match
John Cena vs. Kane
The opening couple of minutes consisted of a feeling out process with the match not really kicking into the high gear, neither man gave an inch to the other, nobody really managing to gain any momentum. The crowd were very pro-Cena in contrast to his entrance where it was very mixed, obviously they just don’t like Kane. The stop start nature of the match continued for a while, until The Big Red Monster clotheslined Cena over the top rope.
The action now continued on the outside as Kane took control, launching Cena into the barricade and then the ring post! The Big Red Monster continued his assault by smashing his head into the announce table. Kane rolled into the ring and rolled back out, breaking the count and walking back over to his opponent, who replied with a swift kick to the stomach. Cena now took control, doing to Kane what he did to him, throwing him into the barricade and then Irish-whipping him into the steel steps!
Cena picked The Monster up and rolled him into the ring, and followed quickly, getting a near fall. Cena pulled his opponent to his feet and Irish-whipped him into the corner, and attempted a running corner clothesline but Kane countered with an elbow and then exploded out of the corner, hitting Cena with a big boot! From then on, Cena played the face in distress, and Kane was made to look like a beast by bossing Cena around the ring.
This continued for a solid amount of time, enough to get the crowd worried about Cena’s chances, before John made his comeback, hitting a few of his signature moves, but when he went for a flying shoulder block, Kane replied with a stiff Uppercut in mid-air! This made the crowd gasp, and Kane saw his chance, getting a near fall.
The Big Red Monster pulled Cena up and took him from corner to corner, wailing on his stomach with punch after punch. Kane then Irish-whipped Cena and planted him with a Side Slam on his return, with one of his signature moves hit he stood up and smiled, laughing manically. Kane climbed to the top rope and once again hit one of signature moves with a flying clothesline, before raising his hand in the air and planting Cena with a Choke Slam!!
***METALINGUS***
The fans go mental as Kane turns to the stage and we see The Rated R Superstar walk onto the stage!! Edge begins walking down the ramp, he takes his shades off and climbs onto the apron, Kane cocks his head, before swinging at Edge who simply drops down, avoiding the punch! Kane tells Edge to get in the ring if he wants to get involved, but Edge simply takes a step back and holds his arms out innocently.
The fans begin cheering as Kane turns around and is pulled onto his opponents shoulder ... Attitude Adjustment!! Cover and the win!!
Winner and #1 Contender: John Cena @14.07
John Cena is now the #1 Contender!! Thanks to a little help from his biggest rival, Edge!
Jim Ross: There we have it folks, John Cena will now face Matt Hardy for the World Heavyweight Championship!!
JBL: It’s a disgrace!
Cena climbs onto the second rope, raises his arms in the air, smiling from ear to ear but then we quickly cut backstage to see the World Heavyweight Champion, Matt Hardy watching on a television set.
And back in the ring, Kane rolls out with help from the referee holding, clutching his stomach, he stares up at Edge while Cena continues to celebrate.
End Of Show