Thanks for all the feedback. A tad surprised there's so much. :$
- I wish I could take credit for the 15 MoF. Miz and Morrison introduced it after becoming tag champs.
- A lot of the ECW talent does end up on SmackDown. Frankly, most of the good talent already has. There's a reason for that in terms of a storyline, plus SD's roster was also much thinner than RAW's.
- I didn't like the MVP promo at all, so I'm kind of glad it wasn't total crap.
- Big Show's spiel being similar to Batista's was intentional.
- Kane gets a big late entrance because he's being made out to be the biggest signing as the last ECW Champion (despite leaving SmackDown to go to ECW at WrestleMania, but I won't mention that), and because he's being treated as if he's important. The main event roster is kind of thin, especially after Mysterio was written out due to injury after No Way Out.
- The roster really is heavy on faces. I hadn't noticed this until I started booking the brand properly actually. It will be fixed, both with some short-term solutions and then down the track I'll change things accordingly.
- A few things I forgot to mention about RAW. It was very much a reset for Carlito. People can remember when he didn't suck at this stage, so I'm quickly moving him away from Santino.
- Beth squashed Maria because I wanted their feud (I'm being a bit generous calling it a feud, but WWE made it happen) to end in a way that didn't involve Snoop and Santino Marella. Beth gets to show that Maria is awful. In retrospect, Mickie, as my only decent diva face at this stage, should have featured on the show in some form.
This is already a long post. It includes a show too, featuring WWE's two favourite supermen.
---
April 7th, 2008 | Albany, New York
Our show opens with a look back at last week’s farewell to the greatest of all time, ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair.
The classic Monday Night RAW opening of a montage of the superstars of the brand and the RAW theme tune then plays, before we cut into the arena to see a pyrotechnics display on the stage. Fans excitedly wave their signs around at the camera, before we finally settle on our announce team of Jim Ross and Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler.
Jim Ross: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome here to Monday Night RAW, comin’ to you live from Albany, New York. I’m Jim Ross, joined here at ringside by my broadcast colleague, Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler.
Jerry Lawler: And what a show we’re going to see here tonight. We’re going to hear from Shawn Michaels for the first time since his match with Ric Flair at WrestleMania 24, and boy are these fans up for it!
Jim Ross: We know that WrestleMania was very tough for Shawn Michaels, but he is in the building tonight. Along with that, the Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho will be in action with Paul Burchill in what promises to be a great match, plus the Women’s Champion and the World Tag Team Champions will also be in matches tonight.
Jerry Lawler: Paul Burchill has looked very dangerous thus far on Monday Night RAW, but Chris Jeri-
***IT’S TIME TO PLAY THE GAME***
A huge cheer goes up for the unexpected arrival of Triple H, who sure enough steps through the smoke, looking out at the crowd intensely, not dressed for action.
Jim Ross: It’s ‘The Game’! Triple H- Triple H wasn’t even expected to be here tonight, let alone out here now. What’s he doin’ out here?
Jerry Lawler: I don’t know, ‘JR’, but ‘The Game’ looks like he means business!
Jim Ross: Triple H was ruled out of action indefinitely following a concussion suffered at the hands of Randy Orton in their Triple Threat Match at WrestleMania 24, and was supposed to be recuperating at home in Greenwich, Connecticut, but I guess Triple H has never been one to enjoy rest.
Triple H makes his way down the ramp, then climbs up onto the apron and looks out to the fans. Without his water bottle, ‘The Game’ doesn’t go through his usual routine, climbing into the ring and grabbing a microphone. As his music dies down, ‘The Cerebral Assassin’ waits for the chants of to die down as he hears screams of “Triple H! Triple H! Triple H!”
Triple H: Y’know, I was doin’ as my doctors told me, sittin’ back and watchin’ last week, and I heard the funniest thing – did- did Randy Orton think he got rid of me? Did Randy Orton think I was done?
~ The boos immediately come in from the crowd for the mention of Orton and his claims.
Triple H: Well Randy, let me make something clear – nobody, and I mean NOBODY can get me rid of me. I’m only done when I say I’m done!
~ A big cheer for that, as the crowd is eager to get behind the extremely intense Triple H.
Triple H: Randy, you and me have a hell of a past. I’d be lying if I denied that a small part of me isn’t proud of you, of what you’ve become. You’re the WWE Champion after all, and it was me, it was Ric Flair …
~ A huge cheer goes up for that, before chants of “Thank you, Flair! Thank you, Flair! Thank you, Flair!” Triple H just nods, happy to hear the crowd acknowledge his good friend.
Triple H: That’s right, it was me along with Ric Flair, the greatest wrestler to ever grace this very ring, that spotted Randy all those years ago. He was just this kid, this arrogant little kid, but ‘Naitch’ and I, we looked at each other and we both said that the kid has somethin’ … he has somethin’ special.
~ Triple H pauses, seemingly gathering some of his thoughts as he rubs his chin and paces back and forth.
Triple H: I was there when Orton was a kid strugglin’ out of his depth. I was there when he couldn’t match it with the big boys, and when people said he was just a lackey. And I taught him … I moulded him … I made Randy Orton – I formed Randy Orton into what he is today. I made him into the man that would become the youngest world champion in history.
~ The crowd boos that achievement, having heard Orton talk it up more than enough.
Triple H: I was also there a month later when I ended that title reign!
~ A huge cheer goes up for that, despite Triple H being the heel back then who rained on Orton’s parade.
Triple H: My point is that what Randy Orton is today, what Randy Orton has become is because I saw something in him, because I believed in him. I thought … no, I
knew there was something special there, even when nobody else thought there was. Five years ago I called Randy Orton a diamond in the rough, and now he stands as the WWE Champion – a polished diamond.
~ The crowd boos again, not keen on hearing Triple H talking up the WWE Champion.
Triple H: But y’see, despite all of that, despite what he’s become, Randy and me, we’ve done it all before. We’ve battled over the world title when I was champion, and we’ve done it with him as champion. I’ve pedigreed you, and you’ve RKOed me. You’ve punted me in the head, and I’ve caved in your skull with my sledgehammer. The one common denominator is that I have always, ALWAYS come out on top … and I always will.
~ Another big cheer goes up from the audience for the ever-modest Triple H.
Triple H: Randy Orton thought he got rid of me … Randy Orton thought he had finished this between us … but this … this only ends when I say it ends. This thing between Randy and me is only finished when
I finish him!
~ The crowd cheers yet again, eating out of the palm of ‘The Cerebral Assassin’.
Triple H: The doctors … the doctors have finally seen sense. After a week of telling them I was fine, they’ve given in and let me go … they’ve cleared me to compete. And now … now there’s just one man on my mind.
~ Triple H pauses again, pacing around the ring and rubbing his chin as he looks at the mat. ‘The Game’ walks back and forth, before suddenly stopping in the middle of the ring and looking straight up into the hard camera.
Triple H: I want Randy Orton, and I want him
NOW!
~ The raucous crowd erupts into another huge pop, before restarting the chant of “Triple H! Triple H! Triple H!”
Triple H: You thought I was done, Randy? You really thought you had finished off, that you could finish off ‘The Cerebral Assassin’? Randy,
I will finish
you off.
~ The crowd cheers once more, erupting a huge clash in the ring.
Triple H: You still owe me a one-on-one shot at that title, Randy. Forget WrestleMania, forget about Triple Threat Matches and any other way you can dodge facing me one-on-one. I won the Elimination Chamber, and that meant a one-on-one match with the champion for that WWE Title.
~ Triple H starts to pace around the ring again, playing with his nose as he speaks.
Triple H: So, the way I see it, there’s two ways we can do this … number one, you come out here and you face me like a man, Randy.
~ Triple H continues to pace around the ring, before stopping and motioning a cameraman to get up on the apron. ‘The Game’ stares right down the barrel of the camera, the intensity etched into his face.
Triple H: Or I can go back there, get you, carry your ass out here and kick it all over Albany!
~ The biggest pop yet comes for the biggest indication yet that there’s going to be action, with that resurfacing chant starting up once again, “Triple H! Triple H! Triple H!” Turning towards the ramp, Triple H faces the entrance, waiting to see what the answer is going to be.
Triple H: It’s your choice, Randy, although let me tell you, I suggest you make your choice quickly.
The crowd buzzes in anticipation now as Triple H waits in the ring. Time passes, and the crowd starts to grow more silent … prompting Triple H to go to the ropes! Triple H begins to climb from the ring when he hears …
…
…
…
***THE TIME IS NOW***
Triple H stops in the ring and looks in confusion up to the top of the ramp, where John Cena charges out. Cena holds his arms out, acknowledging the hugely mixed reaction that’s elicited from the crowd, before walking down the ramp.
Jim Ross: Well it certainly wasn’t who Triple H was looking for, but John Cena is in the building.
Jerry Lawler: Something tells me Triple H isn’t going to be anywhere near as excited to see John Cena tonight as this crowd is!
Cena walks down the ramp and climbs into the ring, striding straight past Triple H to ask for a microphone from ringside. Cena turns, but he can’t get a word in straight away.
Triple H: Hey John, I checked the invite list for this thing … turns out you aren’t on it.
~ A very mixed reaction comes in from the crowd for that, with some happy to see Cena taken down a peg, while there’s also a lot of Cena fans in the building.
Triple H: So unless you’re out here to personally deliver Randy Orton, I suggest you get out of this ring right now … before someone makes you.
~ Another big mixed reaction comes in from the crowd for Triple H laying in to Cena.
John Cena: Look Triple H, I get it. I heard what you said … you want Randy Orton. The problem for you is that you’re not the only one that wants Orton.
~ Yet another mixed reaction sounds, with some wanting Cena to go after Orton and some preferring Triple H.
John Cena: You’ve talked about your history with Randy Orton, but I haven’t forgotten what Orton has done to me. I haven’t forgotten that I never lost the WWE Title. I’ve never forgotten that Randy Orton, that he had to injure me and take three months of my career away, just so I would be stripped of the title and he would be awarded it.
~ The crowd is fairly unanimous in booing the actions of Orton, although there are still a few cheers in there.
John Cena: I haven’t forgotten that Randy Orton tried to kick me in the head, or that he pulled my father out of the crowd and kicked him in the head, putting him into hospital.
~ It’s all boos for that one, with no one approving of the despicable actions of the WWE Champion.
John Cena: I haven’t forgotten, but more importantly … I … have NOT …
forgiven!
~ A big pop as Cena now kicks up his own intensity.
John Cena: You’ve talked about how Randy Orton owes you a match? I never lost that title to him, but I didn’t get my shot. I won the Royal Rumble, but Randy Orton snaked his way out of my title shot after that. If anybody … if ANYBODY is going to get their hands on Randy Orton one-on-one, then you’re lookin’ at him, jack.
~ Another mixed reaction sounds for that, with Cena again pitting himself against Triple H.
John Cena: And if I have to fight you to get that shot at Orton, hey, I’m happy to do it. I’ll go through anything to get my shot at Orton … even you.
~ The mixed reaction from the crowd continues as John Cena eyes off Triple H, electricity in the air.
Triple H: You think you deserve the next shot at Orton? Cena, in case you’ve forgotten,
you were the one pinned at WrestleMania. And you wanna fight me? I was the reason you were pinned. That match was mine.
~ It’s mostly cheers that are heard for Triple H, with the crowd clearly behind him now.
Triple H: And make no mistake, Cena, if I have to do it again, if I have to leave you lying in this ring, I will
gladly do it. Because Cena, I
am good enough to do it … I am … just that damn good.
The crowd begins to buzz, with Cena and Triple H moving closer together, going nose to nose …
…
…
…
***BURN IN MY LIGHT***
Both Cena and Triple H turn to the stage to see the WWE Champion, Randy Orton walk out onto the stage, his title on his shoulder. With a microphone already in hand, Orton has no intention of going any further than the stage, waiting for his music to die down.
Randy Orton: Y’know, I said-
~ Orton pauses and glares out into the crowd as they start to chant to Orton “You suck! You suck! You suck!” Before long Orton grows bored of the chant and decides to speak.
Randy Orton: I said before WrestleMania that if you combine your best attributes, Triple H, with your best attributes, John Cena, that you come up … with me.
~ The crowd boos the always-arrogant WWE Champion.
Randy Orton: And at WrestleMania … at WrestleMania, I proved just that.
~ Orton starts to along the stage now, not daring to take his eyes off the men in the ring.
Randy Orton: But that’s not all I proved. At WrestleMania, I proved that I am truly a ‘One Man Dynasty’. At WrestleMania, I proved that we are, without a shadow of a doubt, living in the ‘Age of Orton’.
~ Orton now stops pacing and eyeballs both of the men down in the ring.
Randy Orton: But most of all, at WrestleMania, when I beat
both of you, I proved that the days of either of you challenging me … are over.
~ There’s more heat from the crowd there, with the crowd wanting to see Orton in action against either man.
Randy Orton: So you can come out here and you can whine, you can complain about the past. You can complain about what I’ve done to you … but me? I’m lookin’ to the future. I’m lookin’ to my future and the future of this company. And let me assure you, those futures are the same thing. I
am this company’s present, and this company’s future.
~ The crowd boos once more, but Orton looks to continue on.
Randy Orton: You two are in the past … you’re done. It’s my time now. So I guess, if you’re looking for an answer to your challenges, the answer to both of you … is
no.
The boos continue as Orton looks down to the ring, half a smile on his face until he hears …
***REGALITY***
It’s heat that fills the arena as the General Manager, William Regal walks out with a microphone in hand. He too only walks out to the ramp, standing next to Orton as he begins to speak.
William Regal: Mr Orton, I’m going to have to remind you that I’m the one that makes matches around here, not you.
~ A small cheer goes up as Orton shoots a glare at the General Manager.
William Regal: But I do agree with you that
both of these men should not, and will not be getting title matches against you …
~ The crowd boos that, although Regal is quick to talk over them.
William Regal: However, one of them will.
~ The crowd cheers that, although a clearly agitated Orton tells Regal off microphone “You have got to kidding me!”
William Regal: Oh, I’m deadly serious sunshine. You see, I agree with both Mr Helmsley
and Mr Cena that you owe them one-on-one title chances … but they won’t both be getting one. Originally, I did plan on John Cena facing you at Backlash …
~ A big time mixed reaction for that, with many wanting to see Orton face Triple H instead.
William Regal: However, with the news that Triple H has been cleared to compete, I have decided to spice things up a bit. We’ll decide who your opponent for Backlash is tonight in our main event.
~ Regal pauses for a moment to build the anticipation.
William Regal: It will be John Cena …
~ Another big mixed reaction sounds out at the very mention of Cena’s name, with Cena nodding in the ring.
William Regal: Versus ‘The Game’ Triple H, one-on-one!
~ The crowd goes absolutely nuts for that huge main event that’s announced for tonight.
William Regal: To make sure proper measures have been followed in Triple H’s return, there will be a doctor at ringside to ensure Triple H’s health, and the winner will get their WWE Title chance … but, to raise the stakes and prove I’m a fair man who also considers your opinion, Randy, the loser will suffer. You’ve both had shots in the past gentlemen, so tonight’s loser will get no more. Tonight’s loser will not get another shot at the WWE Championship so long as Randy Orton is the WWE Champion.
~ The crowd doesn’t know how to react to that, with some cheers but also some boos, as the fans know that one of their favourites will be put right out of the WWE Title picture should Orton win at Backlash.
William Regal: So gentlemen, I suggest you do whatever it takes to ensure that it’s you who gets the WWE Title opportunity at Backlash, because if the other man wins but loses to Mr Orton … well, it could be your last chance to earn a shot.
***REGALITY***
Regal looks towards the ring, before turning to the back, taking the microphone with him. In the ring, both Triple H and John Cena are caught between eyeing each other off and staring down Randy Orton on the ramp.
Jim Ross: What an announcement from William Regal! Tonight, we will see one of the biggest main events in Monday Night RAW history, when John Cena and Triple H go one-on-one for a shot at the WWE Title at Backlash!
Jerry Lawler: But what about what this match means for the loser, ‘JR’? I don’t know if John Cena or Triple H could take not being able to challenge for the WWE Title!
Jim Ross: Those are the stakes Regal has put on the match, and as he told both men, it just means they’ll have to do whatever it takes to win.
Orton, Cena and Triple H continue their attempts to get in each other’s head as we head off to a break.
Commercial Break
We return from the break to see The ******* Wrecking Crew and The Highlanders already in the ring.
***HOW DO YOU LIKE ME NOW***
The crowd gives a decent little pop as the World Tag Team Champions, Cody Rhodes and Hardcore Holly make their way out onto the stage, along with Paul London and Brian Kendrick. All four men play up to the crowd a bit, slapping hands as they make their way down the ramp.
Jim Ross: Folks, we’re set for eight-man tag team action here as the World Tag Team Champions face, and team with, three prospective challengers here tonight, who will all be out to impress RAW General Manager William Regal.
Jerry Lawler: And as we just saw, ‘JR’, William Regal certainly isn’t afraid to make a big call. What a main event he’s made for tonight!
Rhodes, Holly, London and Kendrick climb up into the ring, with London and Kendrick doing their best to fire up the crowd, while Rhodes and Holly lift their titles into the air. The ******* Wrecking Crew and The Highlanders wait on the floor, before the referee calls for the bell.
1 – Eight-Man Tag Team Match – The ******* Wrecking Crew and The Highlanders vs Paul London, Brian Kendrick, World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes and Hardcore Holly
Perhaps wanting to prove his team as worthy, Brian Kendrick motions the champions from the ring and gets ready to face Robbie McAllister. Robbie tries to lock up with Kendrick, but Kendrick is quick to take an arm and twist it, before pulling his opponent in to a side headlock. Robbie swiftly counters, pushing Kendrick to the ropes, leading to a shoulder tackle that takes the cruiserweight down. Robbie then runs off to the ropes, but is quick to find himself on the end of a series of arm drags.
Grabbing Robbie by the arm, Kendrick takes him across to the corner and tags in Paul London. London heads up top and comes down with a double axe handle across the arm, before Robbie scrambles away and tags in Lance Cade. Back in the other corner, Hardcore Holly calls for the tag, eager to go toe-to-toe with the big man. Hearing the pleas of the crowd (well, about two people in the crowd), London complies, and Holly gets to climb into the ring and slug it out with Cade.
Holly starts to win out, but Cade kicks him in the gut, and then takes off to the ropes, only to get an elbow from Holly that garners a two count. Holly takes Cade to he corner and tags in his partner Cody Rhodes, with the two combining for a double dropkick. Their momentum is lost however when Rhodes is distracted by Trevor Murdoch on the apron, his inexperience showing, allowing Lance Cade to take him down with a lariat.
The Crew and The Highlanders beat down Rhodes for a short time, with all four men getting in on a bit of the action. Rhodes escapes a suplex attempt from Robbie though, falling behind him before staggering over towards Hardcore Holly … but Paul London reaches out and tags himself in first!
The crowd cheers nonetheless as London flies in with a springboard dropkick, immediately picking the pace up. He heads to the opposition corner and throws right hands at all opposition, knocking all three men down to the floor before climbing up to the second rope … and mule kicking a charging Robbie! The Highlander hits the turnbuckle then turns back into a dropsault! London jumps on for the cover, but Trevor Murduch breaks it up with a kick.
He then hops out to the apron and calls Robbie across for a quick tag, before climbing into the ring … but Paul London explodes with a series of forearms! London then sends Murdoch off with an Irish whip, before dropping flat to the mat … and allowing Murdoch to run straight into a dropkick from Brian Kendrick! Kendrick springs up fired up … but he is big booted right into Paul London by Lance Cade!
Cade turns around … and Hardcore Holly lifts him up … Alabama Slam connects! Thanks for coming Lance Cade! Holly is taken out next too though, as Rory McAllister tackles him out to the floor, with both men falling out over the top rope. London and Murdoch are left in the ring, with London up on his feet, seeing Murdoch down. He heads across to the corner and goes to the top rope … 450 Splash … no! Murdoch was playing possum, allowing him to lift his knees and wipe London out!
London is keeled over, allowing Murdoch to set him up for – and nail – the Ace of Spades! Murdoch hooks the limp leg of Paul London … and gets the three!
Winners: The ******* Wrecking Crew and The Highlanders via pinfall @ 05:59
***SOUTHERN PRIDE***
The crowd gives some decent heat as Trevor Murdoch has his hand raised by the referee. Cade and The Highlanders join him soon enough, with Cade and Murdoch making a point of trash talking with Rhodes and Holly.
Jim Ross: We said before the match that it was a chance for these teams to impress William Regal, and that certainly was impressive from The ******* Wrecking Crew. With no number one contenders currently, you’d have to think those two would be right in the mix.
Jerry Lawler: Impressive is the word, ‘JR’. The ******* Wrecking Crew were the ones that Cody Rhodes and Hardcore Holly beat for those belts, and it looks like they’re sick of waiting for a chance to get them back.
Cade and Murdoch continue to tell the champions that they want the belts in the ring, with Rhodes and Holly not taking a backward step at ringside.
We then cut backstage to see Todd Grisham standing by.
Todd Grisham: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guests at this time, Melina and the WWE Women’s Champion, Beth Phoenix.
It’s some pretty good heat that comes in as the Women’s Champion, Beth Phoenix steps into shot, Melina by her side.
Todd Grisham: Ladies, it’s been a good past few weeks for you having won at WrestleMania, before you, Beth, beat Maria last week here on RAW. Tonight you face Ashley, the other diva from the tag match at WrestleMania, in a match you requested. What do you say to the people who say you’re requesting these matches because you’re jealous of Ashley and Maria?
Beth Phoenix: Jealous? Todd, do you think I’m jealous?
~ Beth eyeballs Todd, leading to him shifting uncomfortably.
Todd Grisham: Well … I- I never said that you- I … well-
Beth Phoenix: Shut it, Todd.
I am not jealous. The only people around here that are jealous are the likes of Ashley, Maria and all those other girls that go running to Playboy for their fifteen minutes of fame.
~ The crowd boos, not supporting Phoenix’s crusade.
Beth Phoenix: Look at me. Do I have any reason to be jealous of those girls? I know I’m beautiful, but do you know what else I am? I’m a
wrestler. I’m the best wrestler in this division, and this belt here …
~ Phoenix motions to the Women’s Championship that sits on her shoulder.
Beth Phoenix: … This belt here proves it. There’s a reason they call me ‘The Glamazon’ – I’m beautiful
and strong. Those girls like Maria and Ashley, they have their beauty, but that’s all they have. So what they do is they go running off to their buddy Hugh Heffner, and they get attention in the WWE the easy way – by selling their bodies.
~ The crowd boos Phoenix for her comment that only just stopped short of calling the girls whores.
Beth Phoenix: I worked to become as good as I am, while all they did was take the cheap route, pardon the pun, to their fame. So these matches that I’m requesting, they’re not because I’m jealous … they’re because I’m here to teach those girls a lesson. A lesson that you can be more than just a pretty face, that you don’t have to prostitute good old fashioned values for a quick buck. That-
???: Really? Is that the reason, Beth?
~ The crowd cheers as Mickie James steps in to view, crowding Todd out.
Mickie James: Y’know Beth, I’ve heard you talk and talk about Ashley and Maria for so long now, that I actually forgot that you were supposed to be a champion.
~ The crowd cheers as Beth glares at Mickie, Melina staying by Beth’s side.
Mickie James: Maria’s an interviewer, yet you just can’t stop getting in the ring with her. Ashley’s spent most of her time as a valet here too. So why face divas who have only just began their wrestling careers, when you could actually be defending that title? Or do you prefer spending your time … with Melina? Is this campaign of yours real? Personally, I thought you’d enjoy what these girls have done.
Mickie smiles curiously, which puts Beth off. The champion thinks about making a retort, but she instead decides to suddenly depart. Melina is left standing by herself for a moment, before deciding she should go too. Mickie just stands and watches as we go to the break.
Commercial Break
We return from the break to see the General Manager, William Regal in his office, along with an unknown woman. They appear to be mid-conversation, with Regal doing all the talking.
William Regal: I want you to tell the referee to call for the bell if you think things aren’t right. I’m not having my head on the chopping block because one of my top stars suffered permanent head injuries, okay?
~ The female just nods, with Regal wanting to continue talking … when Colt Cabana walks into the office. The crowd gives a small cheer for Cabana, although it’s nothing major.
Colt Cabana: You wanted to see me?
William Regal: Right, yes. Uh, Dr Matthews, I think we’re done here.
~ Dr Matthews nods and heads from the room, leaving just Cabana and Regal.
William Regal: Mr Cabana-
Colt Cabana: You can call me Colt. Mr Cabana is my dad’s name. Or call me ‘Classic’? You know, like ‘Classic’ Colt Cabana? Or how about-
William Regal: Mr Cabana.
Colt Cabana: You mean Co-
~ Colt finally catches Regal’s disapproving stare.
Colt Cabana: Uh, yes sir.
William Regal: I called you into my office because I have an opportunity for you. You see, I know you’ve already got a WWE contract, but I also know that you’re not signed to either RAW or SmackDown. And last week you caused quite the stir, sunshine, when you beat a former WWE Champion in JBL.
~ Cabana smiles as a cheer sounds off in the background.
William Regal: So what I’m offering you is a chance to win a spot on my roster here on Monday Night RAW.
Colt Cabana: That’s great and all, but I’ve gotta ask – what’s the catch?
~ Regal raises an eyebrow, not sure what Cabana means.
William Regal: The catch?
Colt Cabana: Yeah, the catch. I mean I know how things work around here. Do I have to set someone on fire? Or blow up a limousine? Or-
William Regal: All you have to do is win your match tonight. Okay?
Colt Cabana: Oh yeah, I can do that.
William Regal: Good. Mr Cabana, it’s been a pleasure.
Colt Cabana: That’s ‘Class-
~ Cabana sees Regal closing his eyes and shaking his head, already frustrated with him.
Colt Cabana: Y’know what? It’s all right, never mind. Thank you … thank you.
Cabana goes to offer Regal a high five, but the GM just looks at him like he’s a moron. Cabana instead plays it off as if he was just scratching behind his ear, and now leaves the room, with Regal still shaking his head, perhaps regretting the decision he made.
We come back to ringside to see Ashley Massaro already in the ring.
***GLAMAZON***
There is some pretty decent heat throughout the arena as the Women’s Champion, Beth Phoenix comes out onto the stage, with Melina following. The Women’s Champion raises the belt above her head, before confidently striding down the ramp.
Jim Ross: Beth Phoenix had some, quite frankly, very offensive words to say about the likes of Ashley as we heard earlier, but unfortunately for Ashley, I doubt she’s goin’ to be able to do much about it here.
Jerry Lawler: I guess when you’re as good as Beth Phoenix is, you can afford to have a few things to say. We saw Mickie James make a challenge to her, and make Beth look quite uncomfortable in the process though.
Phoenix climbs up to the top turnbuckle from the apron to showcase her title again, before flipping back into the ring. Melina stays on the outside, with this match set to begin.
2 – Singles Match – Ashley Massaro vs Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix w/Melina
It’s a completely dominant performance from Beth Phoenix, with Ashley getting a few measly right hands in to try to defend herself. Beth just manhandles the former Playboy cover girl, treating her like a crash test dummy as she throws Massaro all around the ring. Phoenix looks to have the match won following a slingshot suplex, but she lifts Ashley’s shoulder off the ropes at two and shakes her head.
With a look of dissatisfaction on her face, Phoenix pulls Ashley from the mat then grabs her from behind … before planting her with the Glam Slam! Phoenix hooks the leg and gets the three.
Winner: Beth Phoenix via pinfall @ 01:51
***GLAMAZON***
Beth has her hand raised, although she doesn’t really seem to be paying attention, still looking down at Ashley, her contempt for the Playboy bunny written all over her face.
Jim Ross: Dominant. Absolutely dominant.
Jerry Lawler: I can’t remember a diva quite like Beth Phoenix, ‘JR’. There doesn’t seem to be a diva that can touch her right now.
Jim Ross: Aw, come on! This isn’t necessary!
Phoenix now bends down and starts to pick Ashley up by the hair, Melina clapping Phoenix on in the background …
***OBSESSION***
The crowd cheers as Mickie James comes charging down the ramp and slides into the ring, causing Beth to slide back out the other side. Mickie tells her to climb back in the ring, but Phoenix shakes her head and backs away.
Jim Ross: Mickie James has come to the rescue of Ashley Massaro, and not a moment too soon. Beth Phoenix is sadistic.
Jerry Lawler: Mickie certainly doesn’t look like she has a problem standing up to Beth, but can she actually beat Beth? No diva has been able to do it consistently so far.
James continues to stare down Phoenix from the ring, as the Women’s Champion moves up the ramp with Melina alongside her.
We’re quickly off backstage now, to see Maria standing by.
Maria: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, the Intercontinental Champion, Chris Jericho.
The crowd gives a big cheer as the Intercontinental Champion, Chris Jericho steps into shot, title wrapped around his waist, dressed for action.
Maria: Chris, tonight you face Paul Burchill, but last week you had a match against John Cena that Mr Kennedy interfered in. Are you worried that Mr Kennedy will interfere again tonight?
Chris Jericho: Worried? About Mr Kennedy? Please, Maria, Kennedy doesn’t worry me in the least. I mean have you- have you seen the guy? Have you heard the guy? He’s got his stupid looking dyed blonde hair … his cocky attitude and some goofy, goofy jokes.
~ There’s some laughs heard from the crowd, who know Jericho has may have just described himself.
Maria: Uh Chris?
Chris Jericho: Yeah Maria?
Maria: That, uh … well, some people might think you could have … you, uh, could have been talking about yourself.
~ Jericho feigns shock, playing along with the interviewer.
Chris Jericho: Me? Describing me? First of all, Maria, my hair is FAR from stupid. I may be a
little cocky, and I may tell some bad jokes, but do you know what the difference between Mr Kennedy and me is? I don’t have any horrible tattoos. Like we need reminding by that tattoo on his arm that Kennedy is an assclown.
~ The crowd laughs and cheers for Jericho, happy to get behind their cocky, blonde goofball.
Chris Jericho: But seriously … the main difference between Mr Kennedy and me is that even though yeah, I tell jokes, I have my blonde hair, and I may be a touch cocky … I back – it – up.
~ Another good cheer goes up for the new serious ‘Y2J’.
Chris Jericho: I tell people to look at my
gorgeous waist because I’ve always got a title belt around it. I was the first
ever Undisputed Champion, beating The Rock and ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin in the same night. Mr Kennedy was the first guy to win Money in the Bank – my invention, by the way – and never actually cash that briefcase in. I’m the Intercontinental Champion. Mr Kennedy claims he’s the next Intercontinental Champion, but he also claimed he would win Money in the Bank again at WrestleMania 24 – something which, once again, he never delivered.
~ The crowd cheers again, smaller this time, as Jericho pauses briefly.
Chris Jericho: So am I worried about Mr Kennedy? No. I would never, ever be worried about a guy like Kennedy. Like I said last week, I’m a professional, and my thoughts are on Paul Burchill, a guy who so far
has delivered so far in the ring. And tonight, against Burchill, I plan on delivering another victory. That’s where my focus is … on proving that RAW … is … Jericho.
Jericho gives Maria a little smile before exiting the scene, leaving us to see a blushing Maria as we head to a break.
Commercial Break
We return from the break to see Mr Kennedy sitting behind the announce table alongside ‘JR’ and ‘King’, his music still playing in the background.
Jim Ross: Welcome back to Monday Night RAW, folks, for what continues to be an action packed night. Mr Kennedy has just joined us at ringside ahead of our next match. Welcome, Ken.
Mr Kennedy: That’s Mr Kennedy, Jimmy boy. Always Mr Kennedy.
***GENERATOR A***
The crowd boos quite loudly for Paul Burchill, who steps out onto the stage with his sister Katie Lea Burchill. The Burchills walk on down the ramp without playing to the crowd, while Katie Lea seemingly talks strategy to her brother.
Jim Ross: Well Mr Kennedy, somethin’ tells me this isn’t the guy you came out here to watch.
Mr Kennedy: I’ll have you know that I do extensive research on all of my competition here on Monday Night RAW. What was it Jericho said? Oh yeah,
I’m a professional.
Jerry Lawler: You’d be wise to watch Paul Burchill close too. This man is dangerous, and he’s on the rise here on Monday Night RAW. Ever since debuting, he’s created a trail of destruction.
The Burchills climb up into the ring and await Paul’s opponent, the elder brother cracking his knuckles as he waits.
***BREAK THE WALLS DOWN***
It’s a great pop as the Intercontinental Champion, Chris Jericho steps out with his back to the crowd, arms outstretched. ‘Y2J’ turns to show the gold gleaming around his waist, fitting in with his flashy jacket and tights.
Jim Ross: Earlier tonight Chris Jericho rather pointedly said that, unlike you, Mr Kennedy, he gets the job-
Mr Kennedy: Hold it right there, ‘JR’. You don’t think I get the job done?
Jerry Lawler: I think what he meant was that Chris Jericho said that.
Mr Kennedy: So you believe it too, huh Lawler? Let me tell you – I am the next Intercontinental Champion. It doesn’t matter what Jericho or either of you two thinks. I am the uncrowned champion.
Jerry Lawler: I didn’t mean it like that. In fact, just earlier I was tellin’ ‘JR’ about how great you are!
Jim Ross: Err … right.
Jericho climbs up onto the apron and fires the crowd up, before climbing into the ring and showing of his Intercontinental Title in the corners. Burchill remains in the ring, not intimidated, waiting as Jericho hands off his title so that the match can begin.
3 – Singles Match – Paul Burchill w/Katie Lea Burchill vs Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho
Both men are raring to go for this one, quickly moving into a lockup, although Jericho is smart, and knowing he’s at a disadvantage in power, he quickly ducks behind Burchill and takes him in a waistlock. Jericho is fast to learn Burchill is all about brute force though, as the Brit throws an elbow that rocks the IC Champion. This sends Jericho back, allowing Burchill to go for a clothesline … but Jericho ducks … then tries to hit an early Codebreaker … no!
Burchill throws Jericho back, but ‘Y2J’ manages to land on his feet. Burchill comes at him, but Jericho tries his opponent up … and looks for the Walls of Jericho … again Burchill escapes, this time scrambling out to the floor!
Burchill takes his time, comforted by his sister, who tells him to calm down. The Brit does so before sliding back into the ring, barking at the referee to keep Jericho back. The referee does so … allowing Burchill to charge across and catch the IC Champion with a cheap kick to the midsection. Winded, Jericho is defenceless as Burchill hammers away on him, sending him back to the corner and continuing his assault until the referee threatens disqualification.
This doesn’t stop Burchill for long though, as he sends Jericho to the opposite corner and charges after him to nail a running knee to the gut. A gutbuster follows, allowing Burchill to make the cover … only two. Burchill goes straight to a bow and arrow hold, bending the back of Jericho over his knee and exposing those ribs that he seems to have started to target. Burchill yells at Jericho to tap, but Jericho refuses to do so, instead shifting his weight so Burchill’s shoulders are against the mat … but he breaks the hold and springs out at two.
Burchill beats Jericho up and continues to wear him down, backing him into the corner to try to cave his midsection in with kicks. The referee again has to threaten to disqualify Burchill, distracting the Brit for long enough for Jericho to surge back with some right hands. The crowd cheers as ‘Y2J’ lays into Burchill, but it’s only momentary respite for Jericho thanks to a knee to the gut from Burchill.
The Englishman then sends Jericho off to the opposite corner and charges in … right into an elbow! Burchill staggers back, allowing Jericho to go to the second rope and come off with a missile dropkick!
Jericho is feeling it now, getting up and sending Burchill off with an Irish whip, but Burchill holds onto the ropes, then does just as last time, escaping from the ring. Burchill takes his time once again, pacing around ringside to in front of the announce table where he sneers at Mr Kennedy. Burchill then climbs onto the apron … right into a springboard dropkick from Jericho … no! Burchill drops to the floor himself, leaving Jericho to crash and burn!
Burchill is quick to take advantage too, dragging Jericho from the ring, forcing him to hit the ground with a thud. That’s not the end of it for Jericho though, as Burchill picks him up and rams him spine first into the ringpost! Jericho staggers away, but he doesn’t get far, grabbed by the hair by Burchill … who throws him into the announce table! Jericho hits the front of it with a sickening thud … that for some reason sends Kennedy to the floor behind the table, despite ‘JR’ and ‘King’ not being moved at all.
As our two regular announcers wonder what’s going on, Burchill rolls into the ring, leaving the referee to only count out Jericho. ‘Y2J’ is struggling, having being battered on the outside, but at eight he looks headed for the ring … when he gets stuck! Mr Kennedy has him by the leg! Jericho struggles, and Kennedy lets him go … but the referee reaches ten just as he slides in!
Winner: Paul Burchill via count out @ 05:02
***GENERATOR A***
Even Paul Burchill looks a little confused, but Katie Lea is quick to slide into the ring and raise his hand. Jericho argues with the referee, before turning his attention to Mr Kennedy, who is gleefully making his way up the ramp. Jericho shakes his head, but Kennedy pays no attention to that, motioning that he wants gold around his waist.
Jim Ross: That’s two straight weeks now. Two straight weeks that Mr Kennedy has ruined a perfectly good match, all so he can get the attention of Chris Jericho. I’ll tell ya what, Ken, if you want a title shot then you should go ahead and actually earn it.
Jerry Lawler: We mightn’t agree with Mr Kennedy’s tactics, but in a way he is earning it, ‘JR’. Mr Kennedy is working his way in to Jericho’s head, and he knows that Jericho is going to want a piece of him now. For Kennedy, that’s a step closer to the title.
Jim Ross: It might be a step closer to the title, but that Intercontinental Title is a championship built on good wrestling. If anything, Ken Kennedy is preventing good wrestling. That is not what a prospective champion should do.
Both ‘JR’ and Jericho continue to fume, with Kennedy now disappearing backstage, having sent his message.
We now cut backstage to see Triple H applying his taping around his wrist. This draws a huge cheer from the fans, although that cheer soon turns into a mixture of cheers and boos when John Cena walks into the shot. Triple H immediately springs up, tension in the air, going eye-to-eye with Cena.
Triple H: What do you want, Cena?
~ Cena holds his hands up, almost on the defensive.
John Cena: Hey, hey, I come here with good intentions. I just came to make sure you’re at your best. I know you got punted eight days ago, and I also know Regal’s got a doctor comin’ to ringside. I just-
Triple H: I’m fine, Cena. I don’t know what Regal’s game is, but I’m good to go. And even if I wasn’t, I don’t need you to look out for me. I can take care of myself.
John Cena: Hey, that’s cool. I’m not lookin’ out for you either. The doctor will be doin’ that later tonight. What I’m doin’ is makin’ sure there’s no excuses.
Triple H: No excuses?
John Cena: Yeah, no excuses … for when I beat you later tonight and become the new number one contender to the WWE Title.
~ There’s a huge mixed reaction that greets that from the crowd, as Cena continues to stare at Triple H intensely. Triple H, however, turns to the side and seems to chuckle to himself, before turning back to Cena.
Triple H: Cena, I assure you, I’m fine …
~ Cena smiles, when suddenly Triple H becomes really intense.
Triple H: But don’t worry, that doctor will be put to good use after I’m finished with you tonight.
The crowd buzzes again as the duo continue to stare each other down, before John Cena nods respectfully and leaves. Triple H remains standing for a moment, before sitting down and getting back to his taping, leaving us to go to a break.
Commercial Break
We return to immediately hear …
***SEXY BOY***
The crowd ERUPTS for the familiar tune as Shawn Michaels bounces out onto the stage. More than happy to play to the crowd, Michaels looks out to both sides of the arena, before getting down onto his knees and setting off his pyrotechnics.
Jim Ross: We haven’t heard him here on Monday Night RAW since WrestleMania, but Shawn Michaels is here in the building tonight!
Jerry Lawler: There have been rumours going around that Shawn struggled after ending the career of Ric Flair, but he looks fine to me.
Jim Ross: I tried to speak to Shawn about that earlier tonight, but he told me that he would get it all out in the open here tonight for everybody to hear.
Michaels walks down the ramp and climbs into the ring, then grabs a microphone and waits for his music to die out, only to hear chants of “H – B – K! H – B – K! H – B – K!” The chants reverberate around the arena, with Michaels seemingly enjoying them at first, before interjecting.
Shawn Michaels: Thank you … really, thank you. It means a lot to me to hear you guys still react to me like that.
~ The crowd ignores Michaels, continuing to chant his name, and forcing Michaels to wait for the chant to finally start to stop.
Shawn Michaels: It’s been … it’s been a crazy few weeks for good ol’ ‘HBK’, let me tell ya’.
~ Michaels smiles a bit as he pauses and the chant briefly starts back up again.
Shawn Michaels: What do ya’ say I tell you all a story, huh?
~ A small cheer comes in from the crowd for this, showing their approval.
Shawn Michaels: Growin’ up, there was only one thing I ever wanted to be, and that was a professional wrestler. I didn’t do badly at school – it got me to college for a short while. And I didn’t do bad playin’ football – heck, I even captained my high school team. But none of that stuff … not school and not football … was for me. All I ever wanted to do was wrestle.
~ A smattering of applause is heard, the crowd acknowledging Michaels’ passion.
Shawn Michaels: And there were a few guys I looked up to. Guys like Ricky ‘The Dragon’ Steamboat …
~ The crowd cheers and starts a faint chant of “Dragon! Dragon! Dragon!”
Shawn Michaels: Boy could Ricky go in the ring. There wasn’t anyone who could wrestle like him. Another guy I looked up to was Hulk Hogan …
~ It’s almost a forced smile from Michaels, showing there’s still some bad blood there, as the fans give Hogan’s name a quick chant.
Shawn Michaels: Hulk was … Hulk was … well … he was
somethin’.
~ There’s some laughs heard, with the crowd aware that Michaels and Hogan don’t have the best relationship.
Shawn Michaels: There was Dusty Rhodes, ‘The American Dream’ …
~ Once again the crowd cheers, acknowledging all of these legends, with Shawn pausing and allowing them to.
Shawn Michaels: Nobody else talked quite like Dusty. He had a way with words, and I know, I
know he’s proud that his boy Cody is wearin’ gold here in the WWE.
~ There’s some respectful applause there, with the crowd acknowledging Cody, despite him not being much more than an opening act.
Shawn Michaels: But there was one guy above all …
~ The crowd knows who Michaels is talking about, crying “WOOOOOO!”
Shawn Michaels: There was nobody else … there
is nobody else like ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair.
~ The crowd breaks out into a huge cheer again, before the chant sounds, “Thank you Ric! Thank you Ric! Than you Ric!”
Shawn Michaels: Across four decades, FOUR decades, Ric styled and profiled his way to the top. There’s a lotta talk about politics in professional wrestling. There’s been a lotta talk about politics in my career, but Ric was one guy that never needed politics. The politics almost drove him from this great sport – he didn’t want ‘em and he didn’t need ‘em, because when Ric Flair had a microphone, everybody, and I mean
everybody paid attention.
~ There’s a smattering of applause as Michaels pauses oh so briefly.
Shawn Michaels: I mean, he was this guy, in an era when everyone just tried to look tough, and he was the guy who went out and he did somethin’ different. He dyed that hair blonde and he spent money makin’ sure he had the flashiest robes that anyone had ever seen. And for a kid like me watchin’ him on television back home in San Antonio, all I could think was “Wow … I wanna be just like him. I wanna be just like Ric Flair.”
~ More applause for Ric Flair, but Michaels is intent on continuing.
Shawn Michaels: And it wasn’t just the way he looked, it wasn’t just the way he talked, and it wasn’t even just the way he lived. Sure, Ric Flair stole the spotlight, he was the limousine ridin’, jet flyin’, kiss stealin’, wheelin’ dealin’ son of a gun … but he was also the best damn professional wrestler that I’ve ever seen.
~ A chant looks to start, but again Michaels is quick to cut it off.
Shawn Michaels: Sixteen times … SIX – TEEN – TIMES ‘The Nature Boy’ was world champion. When I was a kid, I wanted to just have a tiny bit of Ric Flair’s life, a tiny bit of Ric Flair’s success, and a tiny bit of Ric Flair’s talent. He was my hero, and he still is today.
~ The crowd applauds, not chanting, but just appreciating Michaels’ sentiments.
Shawn Michaels: And that’s what made WrestleMania tough for me. I tell you each and every year that I am ‘Mr WrestleMania’, and come that time of year I will
always steal the show. And that’s part of why Ric chose me. Ric wanted to go out against me … Ric wanted to go out on top … but I- I wasn’t sure if I wanted to let Ric go out.
~ Some respectful applause comes in from the crowd as Shawn pauses.
Shawn Michaels: I know it was Ric’s decision, not mine, but at the same time, I wasn’t sure. And even after Ric begged me, even after Ric pleaded with me to wrestle him, I still didn’t know. And then on the night, in that ring, when Ric told me eight days ago to turn out the lights, and I did it … I still wasn’t sure. That’s why I’ve come out here tonight … to thank you.
~ The crowd reacts by clapping Shawn again, although they’re not entirely sure where Shawn is going with it.
Shawn Michaels: That goes to the guys in the back, everybody here in the crowd tonight, everybody watchin’ at home … and even you, Ric.
~ It’s a big cheer this time, as the crowd are still more than happy to cheer Ric Flair.
Shawn Michaels: Since WrestleMania, all of you have supported me. You’ve all let me know that you thought I did the right thing, and I wanna thank you for that. I’ve been wantin’ to get this off my chest for a week now, but I wasn’t about to steal Ric’s thunder last week. So I’m standin’ here tonight, in front of all of you to simply say … thank you.
~ It’s another big cheer, followed by a chant of “Thnk you, Shawn! Thank you, Shawn! Thank you, Shawn!”
Shawn Michaels: Thank you, and good ni-
***COOL***
It’s great heat that meets the unwelcome arrival of Carlito, who walks out onto the stage, tossing his apple up and down in his hand. Carlito shakes his head disapprovingly as he heads along the ramp, down to the ring.
Jim Ross: Aw come on! This isn’t anything that Carlito oughta be stickin’ his nose into. Shawn Michaels was pourin’ his heart out for Christ sake.
Jerry Lawler: I don’t know, ‘JR’, Carlito and Ric Flair were quite close towards the end of Ric’s career. We even heard from Ric Flair about how close Ric was with Carlito’s legendary father, Carlos.
Carlito climbs up into the ring, grabbing a microphone off the steel steps, before standing in front of Michaels. Shawn looks confused as to what Carlito’s intentions are, asking him off microphone what he’s doing, but Carlito doesn’t answer that question directly.
Carlito: Wow, dat’s a great, great story, Shawn. Really, bravo. You see, de problem is dat story is just dat … it’s a story … it’s fiction … it’s fabricated.
~ “What are you talking about?” Michaels questions Carlito without the microphone, but Carlito just continues.
Carlito: Dis is typical Shawn Michaels. You come out here and pretend dat you’re going to talk about Ric Flair, but instead you come out here and talk about yourself.
~ The heat starts back up again, the crowd booing Carlito mercilessly.
Carlito: Because, let’s be honest, Shawn, dis is all about you. It’s always all about you. You said it yourself. It’s a story about your hero. You talked about all of Ric’s talents, all of his accomplishments, about how great he is, but in de end, all you want to do is have dat reflect back upon you.
~ The crowd boos again, not that Carlito cares. Michaels looks like he tries to get a word in, but Carlito is too quick for him.
Carlito: You say you’re thankful for de support of de guys in de back? Well guess what … not all of dem support you. Most importantly … Carlito doesn’t support you.
~ The crowd continues to boo the controversial Caribbean.
Shawn Michaels: Y’know Carlito, that’s-
Carlito: You see Shawn you may have carried out Ric Flair’s wishes. Ric may have wanted one last great match, but you didn’t do it for Ric Flair. You did it so you could “steal de show”, so you could be ‘Mr WrestleMania’ … you did it for de one man you care about …
Shawn … Michaels.
~ Vociferous heat engulfs the arena, while Michaels looks startled by the claims, taken aback by it all.
Carlito: But it’s been de same all along for you, hasn’t it Shawn? Dis has always been the Shawn Michaels show. You didn’t want it to be about Ric Flair, which is why you waited until he said goodbye so you could speak. You wanted all of de attention on you. You haven’t changed. You’re still de same selfish son of a bitch you always were.
~ There are yet more boos as Carlito pauses ever so briefly.
Carlito: Marty Jannety was supposed to be your partner, but you couldn’t dare share de attention with him. Diesel … Diesel was supposed to be your best friend, but den you decided dat you were too good for him. De next best friend you had, Triple H, got in before you, only because he knew what type of person you are. But Ric … Ric didn’t see it coming. Ric trusted you, and you betrayed him.
~ The crowd boos, but Michaels, eager to get his say, quickly gets a word in.
Shawn Michaels: You’re hardly one to talk about betrayal, Carlito. What happened between you and Santino last week? Heck, Ric used to be your mentor. What happened there?
Carlito: Carlito and Santino were never friends. Santino treated everything like a joke … Santino was holding Carlito down. Are you willing to say de same about any of your so-called friends? No, because none of dem held you down … you just chose to step all over dem anyway. As for Carlito and Ric, yeah, we had our disputes, but Carlito would never,
never end de career of Ric Flair for his own selfish needs. Carlito still considers Ric Flair a friend, which is why Carlito is out here, saying something Ric Flair himself was too nice to say.
~ The crowd boos again, with Michaels almost looking to start defeated, not trying to talk.
Carlito: You could have said no to de match at WrestleMania. You could have said “no” to beating Ric Flair, to ending his career, but you didn’t. You didn’t because you were too worried about yourself, trying to preserve yourself as ‘Mr WrestleMania’, trying to steal de show … well Shawn, you might have stolen de show, but you also stole de career of de greatest of all-time.
~ Michaels looks down to the mat, not even looking at Carlito anymore, as the heat continues.
Carlito: Last week every superstar came out of dat locker-room to show Ric Flair how much dey respected him, but you Shawn … you don’t respect any of those guys, you don’t deserve any respect back. You’re just the same, selfish egotist dat walked out on dis company a decade ago, and dat … dat’s-
BAM! MICHAELS NAILS CARLITO WITH SWEET CHIN MUSIC!
The crowd goes nuts as Shawn Michaels stands over the body of Carlito, looking down at him briefly, before nipping out of the ring and storming back up the ramp. The camera zooms in on the face of the furious ‘HBK’, who makes his way backstage, leaving Carlito knocked out in the ring as we go to a break.
Commercial Break
We now return back to ringside to see our announce team.
Jim Ross: Ladies and gentlemen, before the break we saw Shawn Michaels come out here and try to vent, and, well, it looked like Carlito pushed him over the edge. Take a look.
We again see Carlito tell Shawn that no one should respect him, only to have his head kicked into next week courtesy of Sweet Chin Music.
Jerry Lawler: Completely unprovoked, ‘JR’! I know Carlito wasn’t asked to be out there, but do you really think that was necessary from Shawn Michaels?
Jim Ross: Shawn has been struggling, and I have no doubt Carlito knew that, and he just pushed Shawn a bit too far.
We now cut into the ring to see both Colt Cabana and Santino Marella there, both having gotten jobber entrances because one’s a jobber and the other is not yet signed. The referee, who also sadly didn’t get an entrance, is there too, and he calls for the bell after Lilian does her thing.
4 – Singles Match – Colt Cabana vs Santino Marella
Cabana has his game face on, despite joking around, knowing it’s all business in the ring. Santino, however, tells Colt that he doesn’t have a chance, not that he’s not a real “Super of star”. Marella then gets a bit too close and finds himself on the receiving end of a series of punches from the eager Colt Cabana. The goofy Santino is dazed, and Cabana sends him off with an Irish whip then hip tosses him on the return.
Santino climbs up while holding his back, only to be scooped up … and Cabana busts out the classic airplane spin! The crowd eats it up, as they count the number of rotations before Cabana finally puts Santino down and both men stumble about the ring. Cabana is the first to recover, hitting the ropes to come off with a big forearm! A cover by the contract hopeful … only two though.
Colt looks to keep his offense going, lifting Santino up, but Santino scores with a thumb to the eye. The referee reprimands Marella, but he pays no attention to it, putting the beating to Colt with some fairly physical blows. Colt fights through in his pursuit of a contract as he staves off defeat, before he gets his chance following a Santino scoop slam. The goofball takes some time before heading to the second rope and attempting a diving headbutt … resulting in him eating mat!
Santino gets up and immediately receives some big jabs, before being rocked with a bionic elbow. Marella staggers into the corner, allowing Colt to charge in and hit the move previously known as the flying asshole. Santino falls into Colt’s clutches … snap suplex! Colt makes the cover … two.
Cabana is right onto Santino again, applying a double underhook … that Santino counters by running Cabana back into the corner. Marella steps up, regaining his bearings, before turning … and Cabana comes off the second rope with a crossbody block … two! Both men get up and Santino is immediately taken down with a double leg … before finding himself locked in a reverse Boston crab that ‘JR’ informs us Colt calls Billy Boat’s Curse! Santino struggles at first, but he’s quick to give in and tap!
Winner: Colt Cabana via pinfall @ 04:09
Cabana climbs back to his feet and has his hand lifted by the referee, triumphant … only for John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield to rain on his parade and blast him from behind!
The crowd erupts into heat as Layfield sends Cabana hurtling towards the mat, before stomping away on him. The furious New Yorker shoves the referee away, before mounting Cabana and absolutely laying into him with some huge right hands to the head. The referee tries to interject again, prompting the fuming former WWE Champion to chase him out of the ring. He then turns back to Cabana and sends him off with an Irish whip … big boot!
Cabana looks damn near out of it, but JBL isn’t done yet, circling the ring as he spits out onto the floor. Layfield rubs his forehead, before bending down and lifting Cabana up, leaving him on jelly legs … Clothesline From Hell!
If Cabana wasn’t out of it before then he is now, with the man he upset last week standing over him, perhaps feeling he has gotten some sort of redemption.
Jim Ross: Sickening. Absolutely sickening from a man who is a former WWE Champion, but he couldn’t take that he lost to that young man Colt Cabana last week.
Jerry Lawler: JBL has certainly made a statement here tonight. I don’t think anyone will even think of making JBL look stupid any time soon.
Still looking frustrated, JBL rubs his face and climbs from the ring, heading up the ramp.
We now cut away to the parking lot … where we see a limousine pull up, with the caption telling us it was earlier tonight.
Jim Ross: We heard Ted DiBiase would be here, and it appears he is. ‘The Million Dollar Man’ – next!
We don’t see DiBiase get out, instead cutting to a break.
Commercial Break
***
We return from the break to see a wide shot of the Citrus Bowl from WrestleMania.
Narrator: The showcase of the immortals has come and passed.
Randy Orton is shown holding the WWE Title aloft.
Jerry Lawler: Randy Orton has done it!
Narrator: Champions have made a name for themselves.
Shawn Michaels is shown telling Ric Flair “I’m sorry … I love you.”
Jim Ross: Sweet Chin Music … connects!
Narrator: Men have done the unthinkable.
Ric Flair is shown looking around the Citrus Bowl, tears in his eyes.
Jim Ross: The career of ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair … is over.
Narrator: Careers have been ended.
Triple H enters, with pyrotechnics shooting off around the arena.
Narrator: We’ve seen the spectacle.
John Cena enters through the sea of his marching band.
Narrator: We’ve had the pageantry.
Shawn Michaels and Ric Flair embrace one another.
Narrator: But will the actions of all … be forgiven?
We start to see action shots of various RAW superstars.
Narrator: Or will there be …
The action shots continue, before we focus in on a sombre looking Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 24 again.
Narrator: A backlash?
WWE BACKLASH – A MONDAY NIGHT RAW PRODUCTION – APRIL 27TH, 2008
***
We now return back to ringside to see a jobber already in the ring.
***PRICELESS***
It’s a confused response from the crowd, as a man we recognise as (and a man Lilian Garcia’s introduces as) Ted DiBiase Jr steps out from the back. The son of ‘The Million Dollar Man’ has a bit of swagger about him, mouthing off about just how well off he is as he makes his way down the ramp.
Jim Ross: We thought we were going to see ‘The Million Dollar Man’ tonight, but that is unmistakably Ted DiBiase’s son – Ted DiBiase Jr.
Jerry Lawler: And he looks ready to make his debut here tonight. If his lineage is anything to go by then this boy is going to be one hell of a talent!
DiBiase climbs into the ring and holds his arms out to the crowd, telling them that he was “Born better.” His opponent just stays back in the corner as the referee calls for the bell.
5 – Singles Match – Paul Hickenbottom vs Ted DiBiase Jr
The son of Ted DiBiase seems to be full of attitude, smirking away at his rather slight looking opponent. Confident, DiBiase invites the jobber in for a lock up, before taking him in a side headlock. DiBiase is pushed off, but it’s no bother to him, simply running through his opponent with a very stiff shoulder block. The youngster lifts his opponent up straight away and throws him into the corner so that he can dish out some very painful knife-edge chops.
With the sound still reverberating throughout the arena, DiBiase takes his opponent and sends him off with an Irish whip, leading to an impressive looking dropkick on the rebound. Not even thinking about making the cover, DiBiase instead uses one of his father’s moves with a classic fist drop. The jobber rolls around the mat in pain, before climbing up to his feet right into an inverted atomic drop … and then a spinebuster!
The sudden high impact suggests the match is nearing its end, and sure enough, DiBiase lifts his opponent up … so he can apply the Million Dollar Dream! The crowd actually gives the move quite a cheer as DiBiase takes the jobber down, and the referee sees that he’s quite clearly knocked out.
Winner: Ted DiBiase Jr via knockout @ 02:14
***PRICELESS***
There’s not much of a reaction after the match from the crowd either, but DiBiase isn’t bothered with posturing for fans, instead motioning for a microphone. DiBiase immediately goes about speaking once handed the mic.
Ted DiBiase Jr: I bet a lotta people were expecting my father, huh? Well aren’t you all lucky ya got this stud? Allow me to introduce myself … my name is Ted DiBiase Jr … ‘The Million Dollar Marvel’.
~ Some of the crowd boos the clearly arrogant DiBiase, but it’s nothing much.
Ted DiBiase Jr: Y’know, before I came here tonight my father warned me to be careful. He warned me that there would be a target on my back because of my name … because I’m a DiBiase. But having been here, none of that worries me now, because I’ve seen what there is to offer back there. I’ve seen you people in the crowd, and let me tell you, none of you,
none of you compare … to me.
~ It’s cheap heat to a degree, but the crowd buys into it nonetheless, booing the newcomer.
Ted DiBiase Jr: I’ve been blessed … with my family fortunes … with my good looks … with my body … but most importantly I have been
blessed with my incredible talents in this ring.
~ The crowd boos some more as DiBiase goes to continue.
Ted DiBiase Jr: Quite simply put, I was
born better … and that …
that … is
priceless.
***PRICELESS***
The crowd boos as the arrogant DiBiase smirks and drops his microphone, yelling out to the audience that he’s “Born better”.
Jim Ross: Ted DiBiase Jr was certainly impressive on debut there, but boy does he seem to know it.
Jerry Lawler: It runs in the father, ‘JR’! Anyone who saw Ted DiBiase Sr remembers that he was exactly the same way.
DiBiase now leaves the ring and starts to hear up the ramp …
***TIME TO PLAY THE GAME***
The crowd gives a huge ovation as Triple H storms out onto the stage, as intense as ever. ‘The Game’ spits his water out, then walks down the ramp, going straight past DiBiase on the way.
Jim Ross: Triple H is here and our main event is next. Triple H vs John Cena, a match that’s worthy of main eventing WrestleMania is next here on Monday Night RAW.
Triple H continues his walk down to the ring as we head to a break.
Commercial Break
We return from the break to see Triple H waiting in the ring and the doctor at ringside …
…
…
…
***THE TIME IS NOW***
Another great reaction sounds for John Cena, who charges out onto the stage. Cena acknowledges the crowd before making his way down the ramp and sliding into the ring.
Jim Ross: John Cena wants a shot at Randy Orton to regain the WWE Title that he never lost in the first place. A win and he gets that, but a loss and he doesn’t actually get a chance to ever win that title back from Orton.
Jerry Lawler: And we know just how badly Cena wants a shot at Orton. Both Triple H and John Cena were willing to compete, knowing there’s a chance they may never get another shot at Orton. This is what they’re willing to do to get that shot.
Cena plays it up to the fans from the ring until he turns and meets the gaze of Triple H. Suddenly, it’s game time. Cena knows that, no longer messing around, taking his hat and shirt off while maintaining eye contact with ‘The Game’. For both of them, this is it.
6 – Number One Contender Match – Singles Match – Triple H vs John Cena
The two warriors come closer together, eye to eye … and Triple H throws the first punch! The match is underway with a slugfest to start things off as the two trade blows, Cena, perhaps tellingly, eventually getting the advantage. Triple H comes back with a knee to the gut though and sends Cena flying face first into the top turnbuckle, before hammering away on him in the corner. Cena is quick to turn it around though, before Triple H counters back … and Cena counters back … Triple H … Cena … and finally the referee gets in the way and forces some separation.
The two eye each other off, before engaging in a forceful lock up, neither wanting to give an inch. It’s Triple H who grabs the side headlock, but Cena quickly counters, pushing him off, only for ‘The Game’ to run through him with a shoulder tackle. Triple H roars with intensity, but he’s caught after bouncing off the ropes with a sit out hip toss from Cena. Cena makes the cover … one.
Cena starts to slow the pace of the match down, grinding Triple H with a grounded side headlock. ‘The Game’ tries to fight out of it, but Cena won’t allow it, focusing on the head of his opponent. Triple H finally pushes Cena back into the corner, meaning Cena must break … and Triple H gets in a hard body shot when he does.
This gives Triple H the chance to set the pace for a bit, hitting some hard right hands, but it’s not at his usual pace and allows Cena cuts him off guard with a kick to the gut before he throws him out to the floor! Triple H looks to climb right back into the ring, but he’s stopped by the doctor at ringside, who immediately demands he be checked on. Triple H tries to fight it, but as we go to the final ad break, we see Cena waiting in the ring as Triple H’s condition is inspected.
Commercial Break
We come back from the break to see the crowd going nuts as Triple H is rocking Cena with some big rights, but a single right from Cena that takes Triple H to the ground cuts him off! The referee goes to ask Triple H if he’s okay, but ‘The Game’ fights right back to his feet in the corner, showing he can still go. Like before, Cena slows the match down and zeros in on the head of Triple H, having gotten the all clear to from Tripper himself before the match.
A blockbuster gets a two for Cena, but he now has Triple H in a compromising position and he knows it, as he heads up to the top rope. Triple H starts to struggle up when Cena comes off for the leg drop … but Triple H moves out of the way, and Cena hits nothing but mat! The crowd cheers as Triple H staggers away, before charging back over and hitting a big clothesline to Cena! Another clothesline follows, thus allowing ‘The Game’ to try for an Irish whip, only for Cena to reverse … and Cena gets the sleeper hold!
It’s another mixed as Cena locks in the hold, knowing Triple H is struggling as he wears him down. It looks like Triple H is about to go to a knee when he suddenly bursts to life and pushes Cena off to the ropes … so he can catch Cena in a sleeper hold of his own! Cheers now, but they’re short-lived as Cena rams Triple H back into the corner.
Cena backs away, and seems to be thinking Stinger Splash … but Triple H avoids it! Cena hits the ringpost and stumbles back … right into a clothesline! Triple H again goes the Irish whip, but Cena again reverses and this time bends over for a back body drop, knowing Triple H is able to counter the sleeper … but this time he receives a classic Triple H facebuster! Cena is only jelly legs … and the high knee takes him down! Cover from ‘The Game’ … but Cena kicks out at two!
Wanting to finish the match immediately, Triple H looks straight for the Pedigree, but Cena counters with a double leg and vaults Triple H into the turnbuckle headfirst. Triple H then turns around … running shoulder tackle! Cena hits another, before ducking a wild clothesline attempt … Protoplex! It’s a massive mixed reaction as Cena tells Triple H that Tripper can’t see him … before he nails the Five Knuckle Shuffle! Thinking that might be enough due to Triple H’s previous head injuries, Cena hooks the leg … but Triple H kicks out at two!
The crowd cheers as Cena questions the referee, before he goes right back to ‘The Game’ … thinking STF-U … no! Triple H kicks Cena off … sending Cena hurtling into the referee! Cena sends the referee flying from the ring! Cena looks down at what he’s done, before turning around … Double A Spinebuster connects! Triple H hooks the leg … but there’s no count! The referee is out!
Triple H looks around and eventually spots the referee, who he goes to check on. The ref is out though, leaving a frustrated Triple H to climb back into the ring and walk over to Cena … who explodes with the F-U! The F-U connects!
Cena knows there’s no referee, so he doesn’t make the cover instead he grabs a leg … and locks in the STF-U now! Triple H bellows in pain, knowing he’s trapped in the middle of the ring, and that Cena is just wearing him down at this point. Cena pulls right back, not telling Triple H to needlessly tap, but instead hoping to have the hold locked in until the referee re-arrives in the ring. Triple H, however, is able to fight back, swinging some elbows that hit Cena in the head … until Cena finally falls off ‘The Game’!
Both men are now down in the ring, with the referee still down on the floor, as ‘The Game’ starts to stir. Triple H looks to be the first one up … when the crowd suddenly starts booing?
…
…
…
… RKO! The
WWE Champion, Randy Orton is in the ring, and he just nailed Triple H with the RKO! The crowd boos as Orton stands over the body of Triple H, having perhaps ensured Triple H never gets another shot at him … when he suddenly leaps up and nails a rising John Cena with the RKO too!
It’s more boos for Orton … WHO PUTS TRIPLE H’S BODY OVER JOHN CENA’S! The crowd can’t believe what they’re seeing as Orton rolls from the ring and pushes the now semi-conscious referee back into the ring. Seeing what’s happened, the referee makes the slow count … and Triple H gets the win!
Winner: Triple H via pinfall @ 15:56
***TIME TO PLAY THE GAME***
It’s boos that greet the Triple H win, despite the result, as neither competitor got a decisive fall. Instead, it’s a controversial win for ‘The Game’, earning him a title shot at Backlash, while Cena won’t get another shot so long as Orton is champion.
Jim Ross: Aw damnit! Come on! Triple H has won this match, but not the way he would have liked to. Instead Randy Orton has laid out BOTH Triple H and John Cena, and handed Triple H the win!
Jerry Lawler: Did Randy Orton just choose who he wants to face at Backlash?
Jim Ross: It sure looks that way, ‘King’, and- wait! Hang on a minute! Orton is in the ring … don’t do it!
Randy Orton has indeed slid back into the ring … AND HE LOOKS TO BE WAITING FOR THE PUNT! The crowd boos as Orton waits for Triple H to get up … when suddenly officials come charging down the ramp!
The officials get between Orton and Triple H, telling Randy to back off, which he reluctantly does. Perhaps his greater plan has been foiled here, as Orton isn’t able to take out his only challenger for Backlash, but he has sent a message nonetheless.
Jim Ross: Thank God for those officials, because if not for them, Triple H was about to have his head taken off again. Randy Orton tried to take Triple H out, but we will have to face Triple H at Backlash. For now, however, it’s-
***VIRTUAL VOODOO***
WHAT?! It’s a stunned reaction from the crowd as Umaga storms out onto the stage … and he just marches straight through the security, swatting past anyone who tries to grab him!
Jim Ross: It’s- it’s Umaga!
Jerry Lawler: What the hell is he doing out here?!
Umaga slides into the ring and looks at the two bodies on the ground, deciding to grab Triple H … and throw him out of the ring. It’s now just Umaga and Cena, who is starting to struggle to his feet …
… BUT HE’S SUDDENLY TOSSED INTO THE AIR AND HIT WITH A SICK SAMOAN DROP!
The crowd boos as the destruction for tonight isn’t done yet, with Umaga standing over Cena, grunting at him. ‘The Samoan Bulldozer’ grabs Cena by the arm and drags him over to the corner … SO HE CAN MOVE BACK, THEN CHARGE IN AND HIT THE SAMOAN WRECKING BALL!
Cena’s head snaps back disgustingly, making it all but certain that Cena is knocked out. Umaga walks around the ring, eyeing off any officials that are still at ringside and thinking of climbing into the ring with him … before turning back to Cena.
Umaga is not yet done with Cena, who he lifts back to his feet, before screaming out in Samoan … AND THE SAMOAN SPIKE CONNECTS!
The crowd boos as Umaga stands over Cena, finally looking to have finished his destruction. It’s stunned silence in the arena, as nobody, nobody from the announcers to the crowd, says anything, just looking at the savage who stands over Cena as we fade to black.
End
---
Backlash
April 27th, 2008 | 1st Mariner Arena; Baltimore, Maryland
WWE Championship – Singles Match:
Triple H vs Randy Orton (c)
