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Location: Australia
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Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
First, Bee Kay Bee, shits been going on lately and I haven't been able to get a Rumble review barely started, so expect reviews for the coming RAW and Smackdown. Soz bbz.
With the winner of the Rumble being Randy Orton {surprised BTW}, RAW's Number One Contender situation becomes interesting, and with the surprise attacker, I don't see Angle facing the Champ unless it was Edge, who didn't want to face Angle at WrestleMania. If it's not Angle, I don't see it being Cena and HBK and Triple H seem occupied with the McMahon situation, so I guess Angle is the only real option, and with him being RAW's last survivor in the Rumble, I guess he deserves it.
Cena going down the card is a good idea IMO since it's about time he's out of the title scene, although a big match at WrestleMania would still be the best option for Cena. I see a tag match brewing between RVD and Cena going up against RVD and Masters next week, so I guess a disputed finish in either this match or RVD/Masters would be the best way to go, but with it being RVD's first night back, I guess he should get the win in his match with Masters interfering for Lito and RVD to make the save.
After what you said in the News and Notes about a potential DX reunion, I see a swerve on the cards and a Michaels vs. HHH match at WrestleMania or some sort, even though its been done many times in the past, both in real life and in BTB. However, I think {think being the key word -.-} I remember reading something about a reward for the person to eliminate Shawn Michaels, so I was a bit shocked to see that there was no mention of HELMS in the preview. He does kind of own. In fact, fuck Angle, Helms vs. Edge at WrestleMania
Mickie vs. Trish seems to be the way to go at WrestleMania so a Mickie turn wouldn't be too far away from happening, so I guess that with the Road to WrestleMania in full throttle, a good way to start would be to turn her tonight, although too much may happen in the one night here. Nonetheless, I see a Trish win, whether it be clean or by DQ.
The fat kents to beat Chavo and Flair TBH. That is all.
Charlie Haas making his in ring return on RAW? Woot. With it being his return match, Haas should really get the win here although I can see {another
} shady finish in the works, and Benjamin to make the save. However, it should be good, if its not, no more love for you
All in all, looks to be a great fallout show James. HELMS to own the show, kthxbai.
Or should I say <4? :P
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BkB Hulk
Join Date: Jun 2008
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Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
January 30th, 2006 | Amway Arena; Orlando, Florida
Machine ... Or Madman?
Our broadcast begins with a recap video of the events of the Royal Rumble, which took place just twenty-four hours ago as the Royal Rumble theme song Stricken plays in the background. Results from SmackDown! include Kid Kash retaining his Cruiserweight Championship in a Cruiserweight Open, as well as Batista defeating Mark Henry by DQ when Henry snaps, eventually splashing Batista through the Spanish announce table. On the RAW side of things, we see Trish Stratus retain her Womens Championship against Victoria, despite an inadvertent distraction from Mickie James, who Stratus accidentally Chick Kicked, as well as Edge retaining his WWE Championship in a hard fought battle with John Cena. It then finishes with highlights of the Royal Rumble Match, such as Bobby Lashley running rampant, Rob Van Dam making his return, Kurt Angle being shown beaten and bloodied backstage, yet still fighting through to compete in the Royal Rumble Match, only to be eliminated last by Randy Orton, who poses in front of the WrestleMania logo as pyro shoots of behind him.
We now get the traditional RAW opening video and song, before cutting into the arena to see pyro exploding from the stage, only for the sound to be drowned out by the deafening cheers of the crowd in the Amway Arena. After panning around the crowd, we then settle down at ringside with our three man announce team of Joey Styles, Jonathan Coachman & Jerry Lawler.
Joey Styles:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Monday Night RAW, live from the Amway Arena in Orlando, Florida. Sitting beside me are my broadcast colleagues, Jonathan The Coach Coachman and Jerry the King Lawler, and gentlemen, we are right on the Road to WrestleMania 22 now, as we are just one night removed from a HUGE Royal Rumble!
Jonathan Coachman:
That we are, Joe, and what a night it was. Goin into the Rumble, everyone doubted him, and yet my man Edge last night walked into the Royal Rumble as the WWE Champion, and after defeatin John Cena, he walked out, STILL champion.
Jerry Lawler:
Thats right, Coach, but lets not forget, we also saw Trish Stratus defend her Womens Title last night against Victoria. Trish doesnt get any rest though, as tonight she goes one-on-one in a non-title match with Candice Michelle!
Joey Styles:
Not just that, but tonight we witness the return to Monday Night RAW of a man who spent a year on the sidelines. Mr Monday Night Rob Van Dam makes his return tonight, as he faces The Masterpiece Chris Masters.
Jonathan Coachman:
And finally, our main event. The cool Caribbean, my homeboy, Carlito wrestlers the man who last night failed to become WWE Champion, John Cena, and Im callin it now, Litos takin this one out with ease.
We now hear silence for a moment, before ...
The crowd instantly erupts into heat as, through a veil of smoke, the
WWE Champion, Edge
and his sultry girlfriend
step out onto the stage. With a Rated R Superstar t-shirt and vest on, Edge has the title strapped around his waist, constantly smiling and patting at it to draw as much heat as possible at the top of the ramp, before kissing Lita and walking down the ramp with her, hand in hand. As he gets down to the bottom of the ramp, Edge begins to jog, then slides into the ring, before waiting down on the mat for Lita and hopping back up to grab a microphone, unstrapping the title as he does so.
Joey Styles:
As we just mentioned, this man Edge last night retained his WWE Title against former champion John Cena in a match which many thought Cena would go on and win.
Jonathan Coachman:
Many thought? Joey, last I remembered, you were one of those many. Care to acknowledge that?
Joey Styles:
Ill admit that I may have underestimated Edge, but I think everybody did that.
Jonathan Coachman:
Haha, not me, Joe. Not me.
Joey Styles:
Congratulations. You must be very proud.
We now wait, along with Edge, for the boos to die down, which they slowly do.
Well, well, well, what do we have here? Is this is this ... could it possibly be? No it it just couldnt ... could it? It just couldnt. This couldnt be the WWE Championship draped right here over my shoulder ... could it?
The boos once again raise as Edge takes the gold off from around his shoulder.
Baby, does this look like the WWE Championship to you?
Why yes, babe, it does. It does look like the WWE Championship.
But thats thats impossible. Last night, John Cena was supposed to take this title back that I stole from him. This is supposed to be with John Cena, not with me. This title is John Cenas! Quick, someone inform John Cena that
have his title! Wait wait, no, hang on ... I think Im remembering something here ... somethings coming back to me ... did I did I beat John Cena last night ... for the second time? Did I? I think I did! I think I did beat John Cena last night! I beat John Cena!
Edge, smiling away, gets a ton of heat now as he looks out to the crowd.
For those of you who are little slow and lets face it, thats a lotta you pigs here in Orlando allow me to repeat what I just said ... last night, I beat ... John Cena. And while holding this WWE Title over my shoulder is reward enough for proving once again that I am the best the WWE has to offer, yknow, Im actually getting a little extra satisfaction out of this one. This win, it means so much more than just the WWE Title to me. I know, i know bein the WWE Champion is the ultimate reward, but this this is the cherry on the top of the cake, if you will. Ysee, in case ya missed it, last night I proved each and every one of you ... wrong. Whether youre OH MY GOD Joey Styles, some curtain jerker in the back, or even anyone here in the arena tonight, all of you ... I proved you ... wrong.
Edge smiles for a moment as the crowd abuses him, the camera specifically focussing on one very vocal individual in the front row.
What, do you people do you people have a problem with that? Do you have a problem with being wrong? Because really, thats just too damn bad, because all of you,
Grinning away still, Edge pauses again.
Going into last night, not one person in this building,
, thought that Id be walking into the Amway Arena tonight, still YOUR WWE Champion. Not one of you people thought I even had a chance. You all thought itd be okay, because you thought that last night, your hero, your knight in shining armour, your Chain Gang Commando John Cena, would once again come forth and save you, recapturing the WWE Title in the process. You all thought that I would be a mere blip on the radar of the almighty John Cena, and that ultimately, I would just HAVE to fall before him. And heres the one that REALLY gets me ... you all you all thought that I was just going to hand the title back to John Cena. You really did. You all thought that I was a one month wonder, and that when John Cena decided that he wanted his title back, Id just hand it right back over to him. Essentially, you all thought that I was just keeping the title warm for Cena, when really, REALLY, it was the opposite. Cena has ALWAYS been keeping the title warm for ME.
Because ysee, ever since John Cena arrived on RAW, Ive been watching him. I watched him defeat my own brother, Christian. I watched him send Chris Jericho packing from the WWE. Hell, I watched him, for four long months, defeat Kurt Angle OVER and OVER again, only for Angle to keep comin back for more. And yet, each time, Cena beat him ... and I watched him. I watched him for all of this time because I was waiting, I was biding my time. And do ya know why I was biding my time? Huh, do ya? Because Im smart. Im smarter than John Cena, Im smarter than Kurt Angle, and Im smarter than each and every one of you.
Edge smiles as the cheap heat rolls in.
Ysee, my dream my dream, isnt just to be the WWE Champion. Oh no, no, no. My dream, ever since I was a little boy, has been to walk in to, and out of, WrestleMania, WWE Champion! And thats why ever since Cena arrived on RAW ever since the day he arrived, he had been keeping the title warm for me. He had been champion for oh so long because
didnt want to be champion yet, but when the time drew near, when WrestleMania drew near, I didnt just
the title, I
Heat for the continued reference as Edge as the crowds WWE Champion.
Cena, as much I hate to break it to ya ... you were nothing but a sitting duck. And now now that Ive proven all the doubters wrong, now that I have retained my WWE Title and shown the whole world that
I am no fluke champion, that I DESERVE to be WWE Champion, I will march on.
I will continue, because believe me, believe me when I say that this ... this is just the beginning. This is just the beginning of my reign, of my era, of a little era I like to call The Rated R Era. John Cena ... he was just the beginning; he was just a mere stepping stone for me. Now now that I am WWE Champion, I will achieve my boyhood dream, I will achieve my ...
, and out, of WrestleMania 22, still, YOUR, WWE Champion!
Heat, as Edge now calms down again.
And yknow, speaking of WrestleMania, for the past few weeks, something, or someone, I should say, has caught my attention. This someone happens to be an Olympic Gold Medallist. He happens to be a former WWE Champion. And he just so happens to SUCK. This man is Kurt, Angle.
Now, just like you thought John Cena would save you, you thought that by some miracle, should I defeat John Cena last night which, by the way, if you havent noticed yet, I did Kurt Angle would win the Royal Rumble like he had claimed he would oh so many times, and he would then take this title away from me at WrestleMania, just, as he ... had promised. Kurt would do it, not just for himself, but for each and every one of you. How sweet!
Edge chuckles away to himself.
But ysee just like John Cena just, like Cena, Kurt Angle proved himself to be nothing nothing, but yet another false, prophet. In case you missed it, last night and this is where it gets funny Kurt Angle
talked a big game like always. He promised all of you in this arena, he promised all of the people sitting at home, he promised THE WORLD that he was going to win the Royal Rumble, and that then, he was gonna come after me and take my WWE Championship. Now, I know what youre thinking. Youre all sittin there thinking Edge, this isnt very funny but believe me, this is where it gets good. Ysee, after all of these threats, after all of these promises, after WEEKS of telling me he was coming for me, Kurt Angle ... he choked.
Heat, as the crowd knows Angle was assaulted and that Edge was the likely culprit, which is what Joey Styles points out on commentary.
Yeah, thats right ... Angle CHOKED. He told me he told me that I was an embarrassment to the WWE Title. Well Kurt, I guess we just found out who the REAL embarrassment between the two of us was, and believe me, its not the man standing in the ring with the WWE Title. Its not the man who could actually back up his words. No, its the man who, wait for it ... CHOKED! CHOKED, CHOKED, CHOKED, CHOKED, CHOKED ...
Epic heat.
So now Kurt, how about you just sit back this WrestleMania, and watch how a REAL champion takes care of business, because ...
The crowd EXPLODES with a huge pop as the Olympic Gold Medallist,
Kurt Angle
walks out onto the stage, wearing a black Angle t-shirt over his wrestling attire. Angle doesnt appear to be in the best of moods as he doesnt take long in getting down to the ring and climbing up, staring Edge down as he does so, before grabbing a microphone.
Kurt Angle:
You no good lying SON OF A BITCH!
Huge pop.
Whoa, Kurt, Kurt, hang on just a moment. What are you ...
Kurt Angle:
Another huge pop.
Kurt Angle:
You know
what Im talking about.
Kurt, Kurt, I dont think Im quite following you here. What ...
Kurt Angle:
I said shut your damn mouth! Everybody is sick of having to listen to you, and if you keep trying to talk, Im gonna make sure you cant because youll have your jaw wired shut!
Pop, while Angle pauses, Edge also saying nothing.
Kurt Angle:
Thats better. Now the reason Im out here isnt just to shut you up. No, in fact, I want answers. Yeah, thats right, I want some answers from you. Lemme first start off by saying that you were right.
Edge looks at Angle, baffled, while Angle pauses for a moment.
Kurt Angle:
No, you were one hundred percent right. Going into last night, I
certain that I would win the Royal Rumble Match. And it wasnt just going into last night. No, last night itself, in Miami, I was still confident. Ysee, the adrenaline was pumping through my blood, the energy ... I could feel it in the air, in my brain, in my heart ... I
that I not anyone else that I, was going to win, the Royal Rumble. Even moments before entering, I had a good feeling. I felt that last night was my night ... but you had to take all of that away, didnt you?
Kurt, I said I dont know what ...
Kurt Angle:
Edge looks around, perhaps a bit nervously, as the crowd pop for the intensity of Angle.
Kurt Angle:
I didnt see who attacked me last night, but what I know is that for weeks, youve been running scared of me, and now, just when it looks like Im
gonna get a shot at you, all of a sudden, Im jumped from behind. So Edge, Im not askin you anymore ... I tellin you ... admit that [i]you/I] were the one who jumped me assaulted last night ... or else.
Another pause as Edge looks a bit nervous.
Listen, Kurt, like I told you, I dont know what youre talkin about. Me ... assaulting ... you? Kurt, I dont think you understand ... why would I assault you when I already
that Im better than you?
Edge laugh at first, though Angle starts to get right up into the face of Edge, causing Edge to gulp.
Whoa, Kurt, hang on ... hear me hear me out. Okay, Kurt? Hear me out. Okay, so, last night last night you were jumped right before you were supposed to enter the Royal Rumble, right?
Kurt Angle:
Yeah, thats right.
Okay, now, it cant have been me who jumped you then, because Kurt, I wasnt even in the building at the time. Thats right. Ysee, last night, after I defeated John Cena to retain my WWE Title, me and Lita ... we felt like celebrating. So I, uh, grabbed my bags after my match, and we back to a hotel and we ... celebrated.
Edge and Lita look at one another, sly smiles on their face.
But Kurt, before before I left, I seem to remember something. Ysee, I was backstage, packin my bags, and on a monitor, I saw you talking about how you were going onto WrestleMania once you won last night. But, thats not all I saw, Kurt. Do you remember what else you said, Kurt? Do you remember who else you said something to, Kurt? Because I do.
Angle looks to be thinking for a moment about what he said, leaving Edge to now smile away to himself, growing in confidence.
Kurt, do you remember what you said ... to John Cena? I seem to remember you getting up in his face, and telling him, after he had lost to me, that he wasnt going on to the main event of WrestleMania ... but you were. And yknow, if I were you, Id be thinking back to that, because Kurt, if anyone, ANYONE, was going to assault you, it would be John, Cena.
Think about it, Kurt ... think about it. Who, Kurt, who did you spend most of last year battling with? Who made you bleed? Who did you make bleed? Who have you put through more pain than anyone else on the RAW roster for the past six months? The answer to all of these questions ... is John Cena. Kurt, we KNOW we KNOW that Cena is nothing but a no good thug, so after you got in his face, after you dissed him, do you not think Cena would be mad? Do you not think that he would want revenge? Do you not think that Cena would react to his thuggish instincts? Kurt ... I didnt assault you, but I think we both know who did, so if I were you, I wouldnt be asking me he questions ... Id be asking John ... Cena.
Angle continues to think, while Edge begins to look very relieved.
So now now that weve got that out in the open, Kurt, if ya dont mind, me and Lita, weve got a little more
to do.
Angle just stares at the ground, almost in a trance, while Edge smiles and grabs lita by the hand, before walking past Angle ...
The crowd POPS huge as Edge goes down, Angle springing right back up to his feet.
Angle instantly leaves the ring and begins to walk back up the ramp, not even looking back at Edge, who Lita tends to in the ring, bending over him and checking if hes okay. Meanwhile we head out to our first commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from Monday Night RAW at ringside with our announce team.
Joey Styles:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to what promises to be an action packed RAW following a stunning start, with Kurt Angle accusing the WWE Champion, Edge, of being the man who assaulted him last night at the Royal Rumble, before, perhaps unjustly, nailing the champ with an Angle Slam.
Jonathan Coachman:
Unjustly is right, Joe. Edge gave evidence to not only clear his name, but also point Angle towards John Cena, and what does he do to thank Edge? He Angle Slams him. Disgusting.
The crowd gives a decent pop as
Shelton Benjamin
walks out, not dressed to compete, instead heading down to the announce table to join our commentary team.
Joey Styles:
Well, we are about to be joined here momentarily by Shelton Benjamin. Welcome Shelton.
Shelton Benjamin:
Thanks Joey.
The crowd gives a decent pop as
Charlie Haas
, in his return match to Monday Night RAW, makes his way out enthusiastically. Haas, slapping hands with fans on his way down to the ring, looks genuinely excited to be on RAW as he climbs up into the ring and poses on the turnbuckle, pointing down at Shelton on commentary.
Jonathan Coachman:
Shelton, for weeks this man, Charlie Haas has been badgering you, and I gotta ask, isnt it gettin in your nerves? I mean, hes even usin your old music here!
Shelton Benjamin:
Well ...
Joey Styles:
Now hang on, Coach. Haas has just been looking out for Shelton, just like last week when he saved him from a two-on-one assault at the hands of The Redneck Wrecking Crew.
Jerry Lawler:
Maybe we should hear what Shelton has to say on the situation.
Shelton Benjamin:
Look, me and Charlie, we go way back, so I am happy to see him back, but as far as me and him teamin back up goes ... I think Ive been doin just fine on my own.
Lilian Garcia:
Introducing first, from Dallas, Texas, weighing 249 lbs, Charlie Haas!
Some decent heat now, as
Lance Cade
walks out, accompanied to the ring by
Trevor Murdoch
. The duo walk to the ring briskly, before climbing up into the ring and trading insults with the fans.
Joey Styles:
But Shelton, to be fair, you have been on a losing streak since last September. Maybe its a case of you have to go backwards first to go forwards here.
Shelton Benjamin:
Joey, I am a former Intercontinental Champion. Tell me, what singles titles has Charlie Haas won? Thats right, none. Me an Charlie, we used to be great, but now, Im great alone.
Lilian Garcia:
His opponent, being accompanied to the ring by Trevor Murdoch, from San Antonio, Texas, weighing 275 lbs, Lance Cade!
Match One
Singles Match:
Charlie Haas
Lance Cade
With a match between two guys who, in all honesty, are pretty damn talented, the crowd react to this contest rather indifferently as we see Charlie Haas not showing any real signs of ring rust at first, controlling the arm of Cade before hitting a picture perfect dropkick right on the button for two. At this point Trevor Murdoch, realising the roll Haas is on, climbs up on the apron and distracts him, getting a right hand for his troubles. Haas though, then turns and gets kicked in the midsection then THROWN SHOULDER FIRST INTO THE RINGPOST! This brings about dominance from Cade in the next few minutes as the big Texan uses his girth to overpower Haas and stay on top of him with an offensive onslaught against the shoulder of Haas, asserting his dominance over the smaller man. Cade also manages to generate quite a bit of heat as he continues to posture to the fans, although this almost proves to be his undoing as Haas comes to life with a knife edge chop to a turning Cade, fresh off more posing. Although Haas is full of fire, Cade is able to contain him, at least for the moment, with a knee to the midsection, before following up by Irish whipping Haas off to the ropes, only for the smaller man to come back with a jumping clothesline on the rebound, sending both men down for a moment.
Both men then slowly make the ascent to their feet, before Cade cockily expects the advantage to just be handed to him, only for Haas to fire off a series of punches and chops with his good right arm. Haas follows up with a back body drop, before hitting a series of suplexes, including a back suplex, snap suplex and finally a belly to belly suplex for a two count. Haas, not wanting to give Cade time to recover, immediately looks for the Haas of Pain, however, Cade quickly squirms to the ropes, prompting the referee to enforce the break. Murdoch, again seising the opportunity, climbs up onto the apron and immediately distracts Haas, allowing Cade to score with a kick to the midsection, before sending Haas off with an Irish whip and missing a back elbow on the rebound ... BUT THEN FLATTENING HIM WITH A BIG CLOTHESLINE IMMEDIATELY AFTER! Cade, thinking he has it in this bag, informs the fans that the match is as good as done, before waiting on Haas to get back to his feet ... AND GOING FOR THE SIT OUT SPINEBUSTER ... BUT HAAS COUNTERS OUT OF THE POSITION WITH A SERIES OF ELBOWS, THEN PUSHES CADE OFF INTO THE TURNBUCKLE CHEST FIRST ... AND SCORES WITH A BRIDGING GERMAN SUPLEX ON THE REBOUND FOR THREE!
Winner: Charlie Haas
Lilian Garcia:
Here is your winner ...
Lilian is cut off, as Trevor Murdoch climbs into the ring and immediately jumps Haas from behind, ambushing him with a big shot to the back of the head! Murdoch keeps the beatdown going, beginning to stomp on a now downed Haas.
Joey Styles:
Shelton, arent you going to do something? You friend is in there getting attacked!
Shelton Benjamin:
Murdoch now lifts Haas up and backs him into the corner, continuing to drill him with right hands as he is now joined by Lance Cade, who lays in with some rights of his own to Haas ...
Benjamin drags Cade away from Haas and hits a series of right hands, before whipping him off to the ropes and throwing him overhead with a huge belly to belly suplex! Murdoch now tries to catch Benji off guard as he turns him around and kicks him in the midsection, before backing off to the ropes and going for a clothesline ... T-BONE SUPLEX! Benjamin stands tall as both members of The Redneck Wrecking Crew clamber from the ring, leaving Benjamin and Haas alone in there, with Beni approaching Haas ...
... and giving him his hand! Haas, looking somewhat shocked, accepts the gesture, allowing Benjamin to lift him up before the duo raise one anothers hands.
The old music of the duo hits as the two stand in the ring, together once again.
Joey Styles:
Shelton Benjamin comes to the rescue of his old buddy, and dare I say it, The Worlds Greatest Tag Team look to be back together.
Jonathan Coachman:
I cant believe this. Shelton, you can do so much better!
Jerry Lawler:
Oh, come on, Coach. These two were one of the, in fact, they were
Worlds Greatest Tag Team, and them getting back together, I dont see how it can be a bad thing.
Jonathan Coachman:
Oh just you wait. It can be a very bad thing.
Joey Styles:
Well excuse us for being a little optimistic over here.
We once again see the seemingly reconciled duo, before heading off backstage to see Todd Grisham standing by.
Todd Grisham:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, Victoria!
Some decent heat, as
steps into view.
Todd Grisham:
Victoria, following an unsuccessful attempt at become the Womens Champion last night against Trish Stratus at the Royal Rumble, you have requested this interview time to, what I can only guess ...
Victoria grabs the mic Grisham is holding and gives him the death stare. Translation: fuck off. Grisham gets the message.
Trish ... Stratus. For years now, YEARS,
have been the thorn in
side, and last night last night, well, lets just say you surpassed yourself yet again, Trish. I was seconds, MERE SECONDS, away from winning the Womens Championship that should rightfully ... be mine. And yet, like always, Trish, like you have since I arrived here in the WWE back in 2002, like always, you conspired against me. Thats right, Trish, you see, this time, you found yourself a little friend, you conspired against me, and you SCREWED me, JUST, like you always do.
Victoria breathes heavily, showing her intensity.
And Trish, while I know, while I know that tonight, youre gonna be busy pretending to be caring about the wellbeing of that
that you continue to try to manipulate in Mickie James after you kicked her in the head last night, you SHOULD NOT be worrying about Mickie James for two reasons. Number one: just like everybody else, deep down, you know that Mickie James sees right through you as the fraud of an idol that you are, despite what she says.
Victoria pauses.
And number two, Trish, number two is that why worry about Mickie James when you have a much, much, MUCH bigger problem ... why worry about Mickie when you have ...
Victoria pauses, seething away.
You think this is over, Trish?
DO YOU THINK THAT THIS IS OVER? Me and you ... Trish Stratus and Victoria ... we will NEVER be over ... until, I get my Womens Championship.
Victoria again pauses.
And as far as your match against Candice tonight goes, Trish ... Ill be watching VERY ... closely.
Victoria now snarls at the camera and walks away as we head off to a break.
*Commercial Break*
We comeback from the break to see the
Intercontinental Champion, Ric Flair
sitting on a bench in his locker-room, bringing about a huge pop from the crowd. Flair tends to his kneepads for a moment, before another figure steps into the room as we see an outline of black tights, before both Flair and the camera look up ... to see
Chavo Guerrero
! The crowd again pops big as Flair does his signature little laugh, before getting to his feet and embracing Chavo.
Ric Flair:
Chavo! My man! How are ya?
Chavo Guerrero:
Esse, you better believe that Im as good as Ive ever been. How bout you, man? You ready for our little tag match tonight?
Ric Flair:
Am I ready?
Am I ready?
Chavo, I was
ready! Can you believe it, tonight, for the very first time, its the limousine ridin, jet flyin, kiss stealin, wheelin dealin WOOOO son of a gun, The Dirtiest Player In The Game, The Nature Boy Ric Flair joining forces with the man who lies, who cheats, who WOOOO steals, the carrier of the Guerrero legacy, The Mexican Warrior, Chavo Guerrero, joinin up for the very first time? Can you believe it, Chavo?
Chavo Guerrero:
Ric, esse, of course I can believe it. You see, its what they like to call a dream team. Chavo Guerrero an Ric Flair, Guerrero an Flair; Ric, that is two of the
the greatest wrestling legacies on the planet, two of the greatest wrestlers on the planet, and Ric, two of the best friends here on Monday Night RAW.
Again, that little laugh from Flair.
Chavo Guerrero:
An Kane & the Big Show, they may be the World Tag Team Champions, but whos to say, esse, whos to say that me an you, we cant become the NEXT World Tag Team Champions?
Ric Flair:
My waist would look good with a little more gold around it.
Chavo Guerrero:
Vato, of course it would, and winnin gold, its in my blood, its in your blood ... its in
blood, so tonight, esse, tonight is Chavo Guerreros night, tonight is Ric Flairs night, tonight tonight is
Ric Flair:
Chavito, I can see it now ... Chavo Guerrero ... Ric Flair ...
NEWWW ... NEW World, Tag Team, Champions! WOOOO!
Chavo Guerrero:
Lets do it! Lets do it!
Ric Flair:
We now cut away from the fired up tandem of Chavo & Flair to see the simply jaw dropping
Womens Champion, Trish Stratus
warming up backstage, her Womens Champion set up on a stack of boxes behind her as she stretches her arms. Smiling, Trish happily acknowledges anyone who passes by, before ...
The camera now turns a bit, allowing us to see
Mickie James
entering, placing her hand on Trishs shoulder, startling the Womens Champion.
Trish Stratus:
Oh, hey Mickie. Its ... good to see you. And listen, about last night ... I just wanna say that ... Im sorry.
Mickie looks at Trish like she is almost miffed by what Trish has said.
Mickie James:
About what?
Trish Stratus:
Yknow, last night ... when I accidently kicked you.
Mickie James:
Oh right! Dont worry about it. I just wanted to wish you luck in your ...
Trish Stratus:
Wait ... arent you mad that I kicked you?
Mickie James:
Mad? No! I mean, you didnt mean to do it, did you?
Trish Stratus:
No ...
Mickie James:
Well as my grandpa used to tell me, accidents happen. Anyway, good luck tonight. Ill be watching.
And with that Mickie skips off, leaving Trish to look slightly confused, mouthing the words Accidents happen.
We now cut back to ringside to hear ...
The crowd comes to life with a very big pop as the legendary Nature Boy, the
Intercontinental Champion, Ric Flair
styles and profiles his way out onto the stage, looking as classy as ever in one of his exquisite robes, his title belt hidden beneath it. Amid an outcry of woos from the audience, Flair struts his way down to the ramp, then, following some assistance from the referee, climbs up into the ring.
Joey Styles:
Another interesting confrontation, if you will, between Trish Stratus and Mickie James, although, moving on, here is a man, who last night, came pretty close to proving once again that he is the man, only to fall just short.
Jerry Lawler:
And tonight hes going to be teaming with one of his long-time friends, the carrier of the legendary Guerrero legacy, Chavo Guerrero!
Jonathan Coachman:
But gentlemen, theyre certainly in for a tough match here tonight.
Lilian Garcia:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Charlotte, North Carolina, he is the Intercontinental Champion, The Nature Boy, Ric Flair!
A respectable pop for, as King described him, the carrier of the Guerrero legacy, The Mexican Warrior
Chavo Guerrero
, who energetically makes his way out onto the stage, talking it up to the crowd. As he walks down to the ring Chavo continues to play to the crowd at ringside, before climbing up into the ring, posing on the turnbuckle, and dropping down to hug his partner for tonight.
Joey Styles:
As you said, King these two men are long-time friends. As just as young boy, Chavo used to follow the legendary Ric Flair around in the locker-room as Flair wrestled alongside Chavos father, Chavo Sr. Tonight, can that connection allow these two warriors to pull through?
Jonathan Coachman:
Joe, Kane & the Big Show are World Tag Team Champions for a reason, and if you think that a little friendship is gonna defeat them, then youre stupider than you look.
Lilian Garcia:
His partner, from El Paso, Texas, weighing 215 lbs, Chavo Guerrero!
The arena literally explodes as Kanes pyro goes off, before the crowd settles into a nice pop as the
World Tag Team Champions, Kane & Big Show
make their way down to the ring, gold hanging over their shoulers. Like always, the twin towers have a quiet confidence about them as they climb up into the ring for the contest.
Joey Styles:
Well youre right when you say these two men are the champions for a reason, but both Chavo Guerrero and Ric Flair are very able in the ring, so itd be foolish to write them off.
Jerry Lawler:
Thats right, Joey. You never write off experience, and Chavo and Ric, they have heaps of it.
Lilian Garcia:
Their opponents, weighing a combined weight of 817 lbs, they are the World Tag Team Champions, Kane & the Big Show!
Match Two
Tag Team Match:
Intercontinental Champion
Ric Flair
Chavo Guerrero
World Tag Team Champions
Big Show
With four over faces all in one match, the crowd is pretty into this right from the beginning, as at first, Chavo Guerrero begins by deceiving Kane with his speed, hitting a flurry of arm drags, before tagging in Ric Flair. Flair is happy to take over the workload early, as he begins to chop away on Kane, slowly wearing him down, looking to get Chavo back involved by tagging him back in. However, it goes pear shaped for Chavo and Flair at this point, as Chavo sends Kane off to the ropes, then looks for a dropkick on the rebound, only for Kane to hold onto the ropes rather than spring back, leaving the back of Chavos head to hit the mat. Chavo gets up holding the back of his head, although he probably wishes he didnt, as Kane then runs through the smaller man with a big clothesline, beginning a period of dominance from the twin towers.
Utilising their size, Show & Kane smother Chavo, laying into him with shots as well as just plain throwing him across the ring, while also keeping themselves fresh thanks to frequent tags in and out. Despite both teams being faces, the crowd begins to get behind Chavo, urging him on as Kane has him in the corner, hammering away with right hands, before Irish whipping him off into the corner. After taking some time, Kane charges off into the corner after Chavo, only to eat boot as Chavo lifts his leg up! A groggy Kane tries for the move again, although he achieves the same result, before Chavo comes out of the corner with a series of right hands, then runs off to the ropes and bounces back ... and gets cracked with an uppercut! Kane, smiling almost sadistically, knows he has Chavo where he wants him as he heads to the corner, then begins his ascent to the top rope, before perching himself and leaping up into the air as Chavo gets back to his feet ... ONLY FOR CHAVO TO CRASH INTO HIM WITH A DROPKICK IN MIDAIR! Both men are now down and its on as they slowly but surely crawl towards their corners to look for the tags to their respective partners ... and they make it!
In comes Flair, in comes Big Show, with Flair being the first to strike as he charges across to the ring and scores with an amazing series of knife edge chops and jabs, stunning The Worlds Largest Athlete. Flair, looking to follow up on his barrage of offense, immediately looks to take advantage, grabbing Show by the leg in an attempt to take him down, although it is to no avail as Show merely shakes his head, then grabs Flair and rocks him with a big headbutt. Dazed, Flair staggers back into the ropes, then bounces back off them and comes back towards Big Show, ducking a clothesline attempt ... then nailing a chop block! Big Show stumbles forward, feeling the effect of the move, though he does NOT fall to the mat. Flair, looking shocked, decides to repeat the dose, charging off to the ropes before coming back and hitting a second chop block ... with the same thing happening. Shaking his head, Flair backs into the ropes again, then comes back at Show ... ONLY TO BE GRABBED AROUND THE NECK BY THE BIG MAN! Chavo rolls into the ring and runs across to look for the save, though he is caught by the throat too ... BUT BOTH MEN FIGHT BIG SHOW OFF WITH A SIMELTANEOUS KICK TO THE MIDSECTION ... BEFORE RUNNING OFF TO THE ROPES AND COMING BACK WITH A DOUBLE CHOP BLOCK!
Show is finally down and Chavo & Flair know its time to take advantage as Chavo charges off to the ropes ... THEN GOES FLYING OVER THEM WITH A BEAUTIFUL PLANCHA DOWN ONTO KANE! Inside the ring, Flair quickly grabs Big Show by the leg ... THEN LOCKS IN THE FIGURE FOUR LEGLOCK! The crowd pops big as Big Show yelps in pain, his face screwed into an unrecognisable scowl as he tries to somehow, some way fight through the pain. Flair, on the other hand, rocks back and forth, applying as much pressure as possible, causing Show to go through even more pain, as it starts to look like he may just contemplate tapping ... ONLY TO INSTEAD GRAB FLAIR BY THE THROAT! Show sits up and grabs Flair by the throat, then grits his teeth and shakes his head, bringing Flairs head closer to him before cracking it with a headbutt, sending Flair rolling away, breaking the hold. Both men slowly but surely struggle back up to their feet, obviously reeling following the moves they have endured, with Flair the first up by a small margin as he staggers toward Big Show and gets caught by the throat ... but he counters with a kick to the knee and runs off to the ropes ... ONLY TO BE CAUGHT WITH A BIG BOOT! Flair looks out on his feet as he staggers around, before looking to do the signature Flair fall ... BUT SHOW CATCHES HIM BY THE THROAT! Shaking his head, Big Show tells Flair hes about to finish him off ... WHEN CHAVO GUERRERO GRABS BIG SHOWS LEG FROM THE OUTSIDE!
Chavo holds onto Shows leg for dear life, forcing Show to dump Flair and concentrate on Chavo, as the referee also scolds him ... WHEN FLAIR SUDDENLY STRIKES FROM BEHIND SHOW WITH A LOW BLOW ... THEN ROLLS HIM UP ... AND GETS THE THREE COUNT!
Intercontinental Champion
Ric Flair
Chavo Guerrero
Lilian Garcia:
Here are your winners, the Intercontinental Champion, Ric Flair & Chavo Guerrero!
Flair quickly rolls from the ring as he and Chavo back up the ramp, having lied, cheated and stole, using one of the dirtiest tricks in the game to pick up the win, much to the crowds delight. Show meanwhile sits in the ring in shock, still tending to his nuts (lovely, I know), with Kane soon joining him.
Jerry Lawler:
They did it!
Jonathan Coachman:
They cheated!
Jerry Lawler:
Naitch and Chavo have picked up an amazing victory.
Jonathan Coachman:
Those no good scumbags Flair & Guerrero have stolen a victory!
Joey Styles:
Whether by hook or crook, Ric Flair & Chavo Guerrero have pulled off an amazing upset against the World Tag Team Champions ... could a title shot be on the horizon for these two?
Jonathan Coachman:
Not a chance! The greatest General Manager in the history of the WWE, Eric Bischoff, would never allow cheaters like these two to get a shot at the title after winning like that.
We get another look at the elated duo of Flair & Chavo, before heading away to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to see
RAW General Manager, Eric Bischoff
seated behind his desk, when suddenly he hears a knock at his door.
Eric Bischoff:
Come in!
The door now swings open as we see
The Redneck Wrecking Crew
come into the room, looking rather flustered.
Eric Bischoff:
Ah, well if it isnt two of my favourite superstars on the RAW roster. Cade, Murdoch, what can I do for ya, fellas?
Trevor Murdoch:
Mr. Bischoff, did ya did ya see what happened to us earlier? Did you see what that damn no good Shelton Benjamin, did ya see what he did to us? He
Lance Cade:
Mr. Bischoff, we understand that youve got a lot on your plate, but we want Charlie Haas, we want Shelton Benjamin, we want both of em
Eric Bischoff:
You want Haas & Benjamin punished, huh? Well Ill tell you what, gentlemen: me, Im not gonna directly do that.
Lance Cade:
Youre youre not?
Eric Bischoff:
No, Im not, but what I am gonna do is give the two of you a chance to do it for yourselves. Ysee, Ive been watching Haas & Benjamin, and it seems to me that theres a certain reluctance between the two to team up once again, so heres what Im gonna do for the two of you. Next week, itll be the two of you, The Redneck Wrecking Crew, against ... The Worlds, Greatest, Tag Team.
Lance Cade:
Thank you, Mr. Bischoff, and lemme guaran damn tee you, next week, were gonna show those two has-beens who the
worlds greatest tag team is.
Cade & Murdoch both smile at Bischoff, when suddenly the door to Bischoffs office opens, and in storms
Triple H
Eric Bischoff:
Triple H! Uh, listen Cade, Murdoch, Ill talk a little more to you guys later, but just remember, that match for next week is all yours.
Cade & Murdoch now leave the room, leaving a fuming Triple H and Bischoff alone.
Eric Bischoff:
Dont you ever knock? I I could be ...
Triple H:
Eric Bischoff:
What in the hell are you talking about?
Triple H:
Shane McMahon. I want him ...
Eric Bischoff:
You want you want to wrestle Shane McMahon ... tonight? Im sorry Triple H, but that just isnt going to happen. Ysee, you know I like you, but as far as giving you Shane McMahon ... well, I just cant do that. First of all, I havent even seen the McMahons today, and second of all, Ill be damned if Im going to step on their toes just because you want me to. I already did enough for you when I got you that number thirty spot last night. If you want anything else, especially if it is to do with the McMahons, well, youre just gonna have to go to them.
Tripper stares at Bischoff for a moment, unmoving, before snarling and leaving the room in a huff, allowing Bischoff to breathe a sigh of relief.
We now cut back to ringside to hear ...
The crowd comes alive for the sexy laugh of Torontos gift to the WWE, before growing louder into a very nice pop as the
Womens Champion, Trish Stratus
walks out onto the stage and plays it up to the crowd, her Womens Championship over her shoulder. Upon walking down to the ring Stratus takes it upon herself to slap hands with the fans at ringside, before climbing into the ring and parading around with the Womens Title that she retained last night at the Royal Rumble.
Joey Styles:
Some very interesting developments backstage with Triple H going to RAW General Manager, Eric Bischoff and requesting a match with the man, who last night inadvertently may have eliminated him from the Royal Rumble in Shane McMahon, although we have to move on from that as the woman who last night retained her title against Victoria, is tonight in action against Candice Michelle.
Jerry Lawler:
Hang on, Joey. Going back to what we just saw, I believe that Eric Bischoff did the right thing by not stepping on the toes of the McMahons. I mean, as the old saying goes, you dont cross the boss.
Jonathan Coachman:
Absolutely, King, and Eric Bischoff is smart enough to know that. Another thing though, Joe: Trish Stratus only retained her Womens Title last night thanks to Mickie James. If not for Mickie, Victoria would rightfully be our Womens Champion.
Joey Styles:
I dunno about that, Coach. Despite what Victoria may say, we wont know what would have happened had Mickie James not got involved last night, nor do we know her intentions.
Lilian Garcia:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, she is the WWE Womens Champion, Trish Stratus!
The crowd barely reacts as
Candice Michelle
now walks out onto the stage, although the reaction soon picks up as she is followed out by
. Stopping at the top of the ramp, Candice looks at Victoria and smiles, before walking down to the ring and giving us her usual entrance of disrobing on the apron.
Joey Styles:
Why am I not surprised? Victoria has no business out here, yet she continues to stick her nose in the business of Trish Stratus!
Jonathan Coachman:
No business? Joe, last night Trish Stratus had Mickie James on hand against Victoria. Well tonight, Candice has Victoria on hand against Stratus. Its called giving Trish a taste of her own medicine.
Jerry Lawler:
And we did hear Victoria say earlier that she would be watching this match very closely, so to me, this doesnt come as much of a surprise.
Lilian Garcia:
Her opponent, from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Candice Michelle!
Match Three
Singles Match:
Womens Champion
Trish Stratus
Candice Michelle
w/ Victoria
Following the defence of her Womens Title last night, Trish Stratus would have to be considered the favourite. However, with her foe from last night in Victoria at ringside, the match begins with an immediate distraction, allowing Candice to takes an advantage as she runs across the ring and hammers Stratus in the back with a forearm, reminiscent to how Victoria kicked off the match last night. Candice, knowing shes up against it tonight, isnt about to give her advantage up easily either, as she stomps away on Stratus, before keeping right on her with an arsenal mainly comprising of strikes and cheap chokes, while also letting Victoria get involved as she leaves Stratus hanging across the second rope and distracts the referee, allowing Victoria to send Stratus falling back into the ring with a right hand for a two count. Despite bringing about a few more two counts, Candice is still unable to get the job done, as she resorts to trying to make Stratus submit, locking in a surfboard stretch. However, the tenacious Womens Champion has other ideas as she fights back up to her feet instead of quitting, only to be thrown back down to the mat by the hair.
Realising shell have to start to bust out the bigger moves to pick up the win, Candice poses to the crowd, before picking Stratus up by the hair and dragging her across to the corner, looking to execute her rope hung legscissor choke. Stratus, however, has other ideas, as while Candice plays it up to the men in the crowd, Stratus turns around and drills Candice, who is sitting on the top rope, with a right hand, stunning her. Stratus then sits Candice up on the second turnbuckle and hits another right, before backing away ... AND CHARGING BACK TO NAIL THE STRATUSPHERE! Both women are down for a moment following this move, with Stratus recovering from the sustained assault of Candice, whilst Candice finds herself in immense pain following the Stratusphere. However, both women break through the pain barrier and fight back up to their feet, engaging in an exchange of right hands which Stratus wins, before whipping Candice off to the ropes and flooring her with a Lou Thesz press on the rebound. Raining down upon Candice with right hands, Stratus takes out her rage on her opponent, before rolling off her and planting her with a spinebuster for a two count.
After getting back to her feet, Stratus waits on Candice to get back up, before kicking her in the midsection ... AND GRABBING HER FOR THE STRATUSFACTION --- BUT CANDICE PUSHES HER OFF! Stratus runs at the ropes, then comes back and grabs Candice by the arm, whipping her off, with Candice coming back with a clothesline attempt ... but Trish pulls out the Matrish ... THEN HOOKS HER LEGS AROUND THE HEAD OF CANDICE --- HEADSCISSORS TAKEDOWN! Candice gets right back up to her feet looking extremely disorientated and Stratus immediately grabs her ... STRATUSFACTION! STRATUS NAILS IT! Hooking the leg, Stratus looks relieved as she gains the three count.
Womens Champion
Trish Stratus
Lilian Garcia:
Here is your winner ...
Lilian gets no time to finish, as Victoria climbs into the ring and floors Stratus as soon as the match ends. Looking to make a statement, Victoria climbs on top of Stratus and begins to tee off with some mounted punches, when suddenly the crowd gives a big pop ... as
Mickie James
is shown running down the ramp. Mickie slides into the ring and charges across, hitting a low dropkick to the side of Victorias head, sending her rolling to the ropes. Quickly following up, Mickie gets up and kicks Victoria from the ring, before yelling at her over the ropes much to the delight of the crowd. Mickie then backs away from the ropes, as Trish gets up and starts to reach her arm up around her ...
The crowd gasps, as Mickie turns around and sees what shes done, as Stratus is done ... and looks to be out cold! Gasping, Mickie looks down at Stratus in shock, before backing away into the corner as the referee checks on her.
Joey Styles:
Did that just happen? Did Mickie James just floor Trish Stratus?
Jonathan Coachman:
Haha, this is great!
Jerry Lawler:
Was it was it intentional? Or do you think Mickie just acted on instincts?
Joey Styles:
I dunno, King, but this could go a long way to telling us whether or not Mickie James if for or against Trish Stratus.
We again see Trish being tended to by the official, before cutting backstage to see Todd Grisham.
Todd Grisham:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guests at this time, Chris Masters & Carlito!
The crowd reacts with some decent heat as both
Chris Masters & Carlito
walk into picture. Masters, like always, is showing off his phenomenal physique by flexing his muscles, while Carlito coolly tosses his apple up and down.
Todd Grisham:
Gentlemen, tonight the two of you face two of the biggest challengers of your careers, as tonight, Carlito, you go one-on-one with John Cena, and Chris, you go one-on-one with the returning Rob Van Dam. First up Chris, what are your thoughts on facing RVD, who last night eliminated you from the Royal Rumble, following Carlito running away from him?
Whoa, hang on just a minute dere, Kermit. Did ju just say dat Carlito was running away from Rob Van Dam? Do ju think dat Carlito is
of Rob Van Dam?
Todd Grisham:
Well ... yeah.
ARE JU KIDDING ME? Carlito, scared of Rob Van Dam? Carlito ... Carlito isnt scared of anyone! If anyone is scared of anyone, Rob Van Dam Rob Van Dam is scared of Carlito! Yeah, das right. I mean, ju all saw what Carlito did to Rob Van Dam last time he was in a RAW ring. Carlito Carlito brutalised him! Carlito left Rob Van Dam lying in a broken heap, left to wallow in his own self pity for six long months, so if anyone is scared of anyone, Rob Van Dam, hes scared of Carlito, not da otha way around!
Chris Masters:
That is ex actly right, and Lito, Im gonna give you my personal guarantee ... tonight, when I lock these babies
(tensing his biceps)
up around the neck of Rob Van Dam tonight ... well, lets just say RVD is gonna need to spend another six months on the sideline to recover from his NEXT injury.
Now das ... das what I like to hear.
Chris Masters:
You see, R V D, you may think in your own little mind that your arrival back here on Monday Night RAW is somethin special. You may think that people have waited for it. You may think that it actually means somethin, but lemme let you in on somethin,
Van Dam
... no one cares about you anymore. Ysee, since you went on your little ...
sabbatical, shall we say ... things have changed here on Monday Night RAW. There is some new blood, there is a new generation here at the top of RAW, and lemme tell ya,
, it aint you. You may call yourself Mr. Monday Night, but Rob, you may as well call me Mr All Week Long, because if you step into the ring with me every single week of the night, the same result is gonna occur, whether its Monday night or Sunday night, and thats that youll be left layin.
Masters smirks again.
Chris Masters:
So Rob, you may wanna get your wife back home to record this night, because I guarantee you, once Im done with you, you aint gonna be remembering too much of it.
Masters smirks and now takes a step back, giving Todd Grisham the guts to once again speak up.
Todd Grisham:
Okay then, well Carlito, I was wondering, what are your thoughts before your match with John Cena?
Todd, Imma let ju in on something right here. Do ju remember about a year and a half ago, when Carlito made his debut here in da WWE on Friday Night SmackDown!? Do ju remember dat, Todd?
Todd Grisham:
Yeah ...
Do ju also remember who Carlito defeated on dat very night?
Todd Grisham:
Yeah ... you defeated John Cena.
Das exactly right. Carlito an John Cena, we have history. Ju see, without John Cena, Carlito wouldnt be da star he is today ... but without Carlito, neither would John Cena. And ju see, das why tonight means so much, because just like just like by even coming into presence in da first place, Carlito
John Cenas career, tonight, Carlito is going to
John Cenas career.
Bold words, as Masters smirks in the background.
Ju see, following his loss dis past Sunday night, John Cena, hes weak, hes fragile. Mentally, John Cena, hes just not all dere. He is ripe, for da picking, an Carlito is just da type of man to finish John Cena off once and for all. John Cena, your music says da time is now, and well, jure right. Da time for Carlito is now, and just like ju were Carlitos stepping stone to success over on Friday Night SmackDown!, tonight, ju are going to feel da wrat of da Caribbean Bad Apple.
Carlito pauses, smirking as he tosses his apple up and down.
And dat ... das cool.
Carlito and Masters now exit stage left, as we head off to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We come back into the arena, with quiet engulfing us for a moment, before ...
The crowd EXPLODES into a gigantic mixed reaction as none other than
Triple H
walks out onto the top of the stage, stopping to look, a scowl upon his face, before beginning his march down to the ring.
Joey Styles:
Triple H looks FAR from happy tonight, and really who can blame him? While I dont necessarily like The Game, last night Shane McMahon, who wasnt even meant to be in the Royal Rumble Match, came down and inadvertently caused his elimination.
Jonathan Coachman:
Listen, Joe, usually, Im a big fan of Triple H, but in this instance, I think hes makin the wrong move. As the old saying goes, you dont cross the boss, and that applies to the boss son too.
Jerry Lawler:
Im with Coach on this one. The smart thing for Triple H to do would be to forget it and move on, but quite frankly, I dont think Triple H cares about the smart thing to do.
Not bothering to pander to the fans, Triple H now makes his way into the ring and immediately receives a microphone, before standing in the middle of the squared circle.
Triple H:
Cut, the damn, music.
The music indeed cuts out, leaving the mixed reaction to be the only audible sound as it continues to engulf the Amway Arena.
Triple H:
After raising his microphone, Triple H waits again, as the reaction just continues. Finally, after a few moments, Triple H decides he can speak.
Triple H:
Yknow, all of this, its kind of ironic. All of you people, you all boo me because you say Im cold. You say Im heartless. You say I dont give a damn about anyone but myself. Youve been saying this for years And you know what? It may well be true. In fact, it is. All of it. But ysee, the moment the moment I change all of that, the moment that I try to help someone, the moment that I
finally begin
to care, surprise surprise, it all comes back, and it bites me right in the ass. What am I talking about? Im talking about what happened last night at the Royal Rumble.
Mixed reaction.
Triple H:
Now, as Im sure you all saw last night, I did something I dont usually do. I went out of my way to not only do something nice for someone, but I went out of my way to help the devil himself, Vincent, Kennedy, McMahon.
Huge heat.
Triple H:
I know, I know; Im not a fan of the guy either. In fact, you might even say I hate his guts.
Triple H:
But thats beside the point. The fact of the matter is that last night, I went out of
way to be a nice guy. I went out of
way to make a promise to Vince, that as long as he scratched my back, Id scratch his too. I told Vince ... no, I gave Vince
my word
that if, when I entered the Royal Rumble Match, Shawn Michaels was still alive that I, and no one else, would finish him off for Vince once and for all ...
Triple H:
Provided provided that Vince kept all of his little lackeys out of my way. Now I know that Vince isnt ... well, lets just say he isnt the most reliable guy in the world. In fact, Id believe that Barry Bonds isnt on the juice before Id take Vinces word the majority of the time. Regardless, last night, I decided that Id put aside my usual ideas, and I decided that Id help someone out in need. I decided to listen to my heart, and let me now state that I will
make that same mistake again.
Mixed reaction.
Triple H:
So now that The Game is back, now that the Triple H of old is back, lemme ask you something, Vince, and I really want you to think about this. After catching me in a rare moment of kindness, after getting something from me that you thought you would never get, did you
think,that after telling me no one would interfere with me, that after telling me that youd keep all of your little lackeys out of the way, that after, in exchange for
word, you gave me
word that Id be happy when you went ahead and
HUGE mixed reaction for the amazing showing of intensity from Triple H.
Triple H:
Vince ... did you really ...
think Id be happy after that? Because if you did, Im gonna let you in on a little secret ... you were
wrong ... DEAD WRONG.
Mixed reaction.
Triple H:
Vince, in case you havent noticed, I dont like you. I have
liked you. And yet for some reason or another, Vince, you seem to think that crossing me is a good idea. You seem to think that costing me a shot at the one thing that means more than life itself to me, you seem to think that costing me a shot at the WWE Championship, you seem to think thats a good idea. Well guess what ... ITS NOT!
Small mixed reaction.
Triple H:
Last night, by being the nice guy, by offering to help you, by trusting you, Vince, I made the single biggest mistake of, my, life. But let me assure you, I have learnt from last night, and I will
make the same mistake again.
Small mixed reaction.
Triple H:
In case you havent caught on, Vince, Shane, Im not playing games anymore. Im not being nice anymore. Im not caring anymore. After one night of being the nice guy Im done with all of that, and now you two are gonna pay. You think Im cold? Calculating? Callous?
, even? Good, because I am gonna show you just why it is they call me the Cerebral Assassin.
Small mixed reaction.
Triple H:
For the two of you it is
Big reaction of mainly cheers.
Triple H:
So if you have the guts, youll get your asses out to the ring, right ... now!
Triple H goes silent as the crowd now buzzes with anticipation, waiting to see if the McMahons will have the guts to take up the challenge from Triple H and make their way out to the ring. After a short while it looks like no one will come out, however, that all changes when all of a sudden we hear ...
The crowd acts surprised at first, not expecting this, although they soon enough give a big pop as
Shawn Michaels
walks out onto the stage, looking as serious as a heart attack. Not bothering to set off his pyro, Michaels instead solemnly walks down the ramp, not even acknowledging the fans at ringside.
Joey Styles:
Well, this certainly wasnt what Triple H expected.
Jonathan Coachman:
I dunno what Triple H was expecting. Does he really think he can disrespect the boss like that, then expect him to come out? Outrageous.
Michaels now climbs up into the ring and receives a microphone of his own, before standing face to face with The Game.
Shawn Michaels:
Now, now, I know what youre all thinkin. Aitch Bee Kay, Triple Aitch didnt say your name. He didnt call you out. What are you doin out here? Well ysee, its quite simple. Im out here to do what I believe is the right thing, and that is giving a warning to
, Triple H.
Michaels continues to point towards Triple H.
Shawn Michaels:
Now I know, I know. Me and you, well, Hunter, lets just say for the past four years, we havent exactly been the best of friends. In fact, it wouldnt be a stretch to say that weve been ... enemies. But, when I see someone do somethin like this, regardless of who they are, I cant just sit back and watch. Besides, there was a time, four, five years ago, that me an you, we were inseparable, Hunter.
Triple H:
Shawn, listen, I appreciate the help, but really, I dont ...
Shawn Michaels:
Ah, ba-ba-ba-ba-ba. Stop right there. Now Hunter, like I said, we used to be the best of buds, we used to be inseparable, so Id like to think I know a little somethin about you, and unless youve changed, which I highly doubt, I
that you think you can do this all on your own, and that you dont need any advice. Well, Im out here to tell you that first off, no, you cant, and second, yes, you do.
Michaels pauses for a moment and smiles, while Triple H looks on, perhaps a bit agitated.
Shawn Michaels:
So, despite you tryin to eliminate The Heartbreak Kid last night in your little deal with Vince McMahon, tonight, is still gonna be your lucky night, boyo.
Another little smile from Michaels.
Shawn Michaels:
Triple Aitch, as I said, me and you, we go back a loooong way. It wasnt just four years ago that we were buds, oh no. Ten years ago, ne an you were running buddies in a lil faction called D-Generation X.
Big pop for the DX mention.
Shawn Michaels:
Now, the reason I bring up the old DX days isnt just to give those of you in the audience a history lesson, or to reminisce with my old buddy over here, but instead, its to give you an example, because ten years ago, I would have done the exact same thing that you were doin just a moment ago, Triple Aitch. An while Id like to think that ten years later, Ive grown a little past that, the point still remains that ...
Triple H:
Whoa, hold on just a minute. Youve grown ... past that? What are you sayin, Shawn? Is there somethin you wanna say about to me? Because it sure sounds that way to me, Shawn.
Shawn Michaels:
As a matter o fact, there is somethin I wanna say to ya, so if youll just let me speak, Ill be able to say it.
The crowd, unsure what to make of this situation, stay silent as Michaels pauses. Triple H, obviously not happy with what Michaels is saying, sneers away.
Shawn Michaels:
Okay, now, as I was sayin, ten years ago, I wouldve done that, because you still have what we both had ten years ago back in the DX days, and that is that attitude. Now me, I ditched that when I found myself my lord, and my saviour. But you, Triple Aitch, you still have it runnin through you as strong as ever, and that is exactly what Vince wants.
The crowd murmurs as Shawn pauses for a brief moment.
Shawn Michaels:
Dont ya see, Hunter? You are playin right into his hands. He wants to bring that hot streak out of you. He wants to bring that attitude out of you. He wants to see the olllllld Triple Aitch!
Triple H:
Hang on. So basically, what youre tellin me is that Vince McMahon ... wants me to kick Vince McMahons ass? Yeah, right.
Shawn Michaels:
You dont believe me, huh? Lemme ask you this: this past Sunday, you agreed to help Vince by eliminatin me from the Royal Rumble. Why is it that Vince didnt want me to win and go on to main event WrestleMania 22? Why is it that for the past few months, Vince McMahon has had his target set squarely on me? Why is it that he has been tryin to make my life, and only my life, a living hell? Its not because I told him to grow up, oh no ... its because
I grew up
. And now you, Hunter, you need to do the same.
Shawn looks at Triple H as the crowd stays silent.
Shawn Michaels:
Think about it, Hunter. Do you wanna play Vinces game, or do you wanna play your own?
Another slight pause, as Triple H looks to ponder Shawns question for a moment.
Triple H:
... Shane, Vince, get your asses out here now!
Michaels just sighs, allowing Tripper to go on, rather than standing in his way as we wait for a moment before ...
What? The crowd is shocked again, before giving some decent heat as
Gregory Helms
walks out to the top of the ramp wearing a button up shirt, jeans and a beanie, microphone already in hand.
Gregory Helms:
Sorry for interrupting this cute little reunion we have goin on here in the ring, but I, and these people have
heard enough of this, so its time somebody put an end to it.
Triple H:
Hang on a minute ... who are you again?
Small pop as Helms smiles at the top of the ramp.
Gregory Helms:
Who am I? Thats cute ... thats very cute, but by now, Im sure you, along with every single person in this arena, are fully aware of just who I am. However, for the benefit of those who have been livin under a rock and missed my rise from under a mask of mediocrity to greatness, allow me to educate you.
Slight pause from Helms.
Gregory Helms:
, am the leader of a new generation.
, am the voice of each and every one of the WWE fans, who previously, did not have a voice to speak for them ...
Heat, as the crowd obviously dont want to be represented by Helms.
Gregory Helms:
, am the shooting star here on Monday Night RAW.
, am the man who last night, was the breakout star of the Royal Rumble. I am not just your hero, but I am the hero of everybody worldwide ... I am ... Gregory ... Helms!
Helms holds his head up to the sky and takes a few deep breaths, getting some very nice heat from the crowd.
Gregory Helms:
But ysee, as much as you all want to hear about just who I am and what Ive done, I didnt come out here just to speak about that. Oh no, I came out here to, as I have already said, put an end to this little charade goin on in the ring, because as much as I just love hearin you, Shawn Michaels, cryin that Mr. McMahon has made your life a living hell, and you, Triple H, cryin that Mr. McMahon cost you the Royal Rumble, I, and these people have heard enough, so Im here to put a stop to this.
Triple H:
Look, I dont care what youre out here for, because quite frankly, I dont give a damn about you.
Triple H:
So, if youll just shut your mouth for one damn moment, Ill give you a free pass and forget this ever happened. Open your mouth again, and you may well be joining the McMahon family ...
Gregory Helms:
I may be joining Vince and Shane? Where, in Stamford, Connecticut?
Triple H mouths WHAT? at Helms, who is now smirking.
Gregory Helms:
Oh, what, you didnt know? Yeah, thats right: Vince and Shane ... they aint here tonight.
HUGE heat.
Gregory Helms:
Now, for all of us, that is the bad news. However, I also bring some good news with me, right from the lips of the boss himself.
Smirking, Helms oozes confidence, despite mouthing off to two of the biggest stars in the WWE.
Gregory Helms:
As you have already reminded us all, Triple H, last night, there was a little ... bounty, shall we say, over the head of the man standin right beside you, Shawn Michaels. And while you tried to claim that bounty, Hunter ...
Triple H and Shawn Michaels look at one another somewhat uncomfortably.
Gregory Helms:
... you were unsuccessful ... but
I I wasnt
Helms again smirks, pausing as Shawn and Tripper turn their attention back to him.
Gregory Helms:
So, as a reward for what I did last night, Vince McMahon has granted me a match,
match that I want, for next week ... on RAW ... and I ... well, lets just say I already have a match in mind. Next week, it is gonna be me, goin one-on-one with ...
Dramatic pause.
Gregory Helms:
The Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels!
Another big pop.
Gregory Helms:
And lemme assure you right now that next week ... Im gonna finish the job that I started for Mr. McMahon last night.
Helms now smirks at the top of the ramp, before walking off backstage, leaving Shawn Michaels to look up at the ramp where Helms just was, while Triple H just stares at Michaels, knowing he didnt get what he had wanted tonight.
Joey Styles:
Triple H didnt get what he wanted here tonight in the McMahons, but what an announcement for next week! The man who shocked us all last night when he not only eliminated Shawn Michaels, but also made it down to the final four of the Royal Rumble, Gregory Helms goes one-on-one with The Heartbreak Kid, Shawn Michaels.
Jonathan Coachman:
And next week, Helms is gonna continue to rise up the ladder here on Monday Night RAW by finishing Shawn Michaels off once and for all, Joe.
Jerry Lawler:
I dont know about that, Coach, but I do know that Im starting to join you on the Helms bandwagon.
Jonathan Coachman:
Soon enough the Helms bandwagon is gonna be full, baby. The man is too good not to be supported.
We now cut away to go backstage, where we see Todd Grisham standing by.
Todd Grisham:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome, the returning Rob ... Van ... Dam!
Rob Van Dam
walks into the picture to a MASSIVE pop, looking quietly confident, as per usual.
Todd Grisham:
First off all, Rob, welcome back here to Monday Night RAW.
Rob Van Dam:
Thank you.
Todd Grisham:
Now of course, tonight, you make your return to RAW, but you dont have it easy as you go one-on-one with The Masterpiece Chris Masters. What are your thoughts on facing Masters?
Rob Van Dam:
Yknow, ever since I was first injured over a year ago, back on SmackDown!, Ive been preparin for my return, not just by rehabbing myself, nut just by keeping myself strong, but by waiting, and watching. Since last January I have watched every RAW, and I have every SmackDown!, and Ive seen who has improved, who has seemingly lost it, and who is new on the scene. Im not gonna lie. When I was sittin back at home and saw the debut of Chris Masters last February ... he caught my eye.
A slight smile, almost nervously, crosses the face of RVD.
Rob Van Dam:
I mean, heres a dude who is big, hes strong, hes powerful ... but hes also smart. People say Chris Masters? Hes just Carlitos lackey! And yknow, thats true ... partially. Chris Masters
Carlitos lackey, but hes not
Carlitos lackey. Hes 265 lbs of pure talent ... he may even be the future of this business. To sum him up, Chris Masters ... hes a tough dude.
... so is this dude.
RVD now smiles confidently as the crowd cheers.
Rob Van Dam:
For over twelve months, I have been cooped up, waiting,
for this moment. For over twelve months, Ive been thinking about this moment. For over twelve months, I have been ready to kick some ass! Last night I may have made my return at the Royal Rumble, but tonight is my chance to make the mark that I couldnt quite make last night. Ill admit, I was disappointed when I couldnt make a splash by winning the Royal Rumble, and finally puttin my name in the spotlight where it belongs ... but tonight, I make my mark ... I put my name in the spotlight, and I show why I am called Mr. Monday Night.
Rob Van Dam:
Tonight, I may be facin a Masterpiece, I may be facin the future of the WWE, but Chris Masters, tonight, you are going to find out that the present of the WWE is none other than R ... V ... D!
RVD smiles and looks set to walk off, only to turn back to the camera.
Rob Van Dam:
Oh, and Carlito ... dont think Ive forgotten about you, because your time ... its comin.
VD now smiles and walks out of view as we head off to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to see Maria standing by (yes, back to back interviews).
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest, The Champ ... John Cena!
John Cena
walks steps into view following his introduction, getting a big mixed reaction from the crowd.
John, last night you ... wait ... if youre The Champ ... then wheres your title?
Cena looks at Maria with a look of surprise, before turning serious.
John Cena:
Maria, usually, youre a lotta fun, but tonight tonight Im not in the mood, so if ya dont mind ...
Cena motions for Maria to skidaddle, which she at first cant interpret, before catching on and handing Cena the microphone on her way out. For the first time since coming to RAW, Cena looks almost nervous, unsure of himself ... apprehensive. Sucking it up, Cena takes in a deep breath, before beginning.
John Cena:
Ever since I came here to Monday Night RAW last June, I think its fair to say that Ive had everything go my way. I mean, I may have had some problems with some folk along the way ... our General Manager, Eric Bischoff ... Chris Jericho ... Kurt Angle ... but despite all o this, I had always pulled through. Despite all o this I remained ... The Champ. But not anymore ... not anymore.
Cena takes another deep breath.
John Cena:
Despite everything I said to Edge in the weeks leadin up to the Royal Rumble, I gotta give credit where credit is due: Edge ... you put forward a heck of a performance at the Royal Rumble.There aint no doubtin that. And while maybe maybe if Lita had kept her nouse outta my business, the result woulda been different, but I aint makin excuses ... you have earned the right to call yourself, you
to be W ... W ... E ... Champion.
Cena takes another deep breath to a mixed reaction from the crowd.
John Cena:
Now, while I agree wit you in sayin that you deserve to be champ, another thing you said ... well, lets just say it caught my attention. When you said ...
Cena smiles and laughs to himself.
John Cena:
When you said that
jumped Kurt Angle from behind last night ... yeah, you caught my attention. Now Im not gonna lie, what Kurt said to me last night ... it hurt. It cut me deep. Because ysee, last night after our match, Edge, I was reelin. Much like Kurt, goin into last night, I was so sure, I was CERTAIN that I would regain the WWE Title that I had held for so long ... you might say I was a bit overconfident. So when I lost last night, I was shocked, I was hurt ... mentally, I wasnt all there. But to say that I attacked Kurt? Edge, thats not just a slight on me, but thats also a slight on everything I stand for, because we all know that when it comes down to it ...
I dont need to hit Kurt from behind.
Like Ive always said, if yall want some, come get some, and Ill beat yo ass face ... to face.
The crowd gives a very loud mixed reaction to this.
John Cena:
Now, as far as later tonight goes ... Carlito? I heard what you said earlier tonight. You said that following last night that Im weak ... that Im vulnerable ... that Im ...
. And yknow what Carlito ... if we were wrestlin twenty-four hours ago you would be exactly ... right. But Carlito, unlike some, I dont dwell on what has happened, I dont live in the past. I live here ... and I live now. Carlito, earlier tonight, you said we have a past, and you were right, but right now, none of that matters. You may think youve got my number, you may think Im vulnerable, you may think Im broken, but Ill be DAMNED if I do not fight, if I do not keep on comin, and that if I do not do everything in my power to win!
After this impassioned speech, Cena takes another deep breath, before smiling.
John Cena:
Carlito, you may think that my time is up, but I guarantee you, my time is ... NOW!
We now cut away to ringside to hear ...
The crowd gives some decent heat as
Chris Masters
goes through his usual routine of flexing his muscles to show off his awe inspiring physique while pyro flies off behind him. Following his, as per usual, impressive display, Masters smirks and walks down to the ring, ignoring the fans abuse from ringside as he does so. Upon climbing up into the ring, Masters still wears his smirk with pride, before holding his hands up in the Masterlock position, continuing to flex his impressive body as he does so.
Joey Styles:
John Cena, promising not just Carlito, but everyone else hes ready for tonights main event, but before we worry about that, right now Carlitos buddy, The Masterpiece in action here.
Jerry Lawler:
And boy is he going to be in for one of the toughest matches of his young career.
Jonathan Coachman:
But you better believe that The Masterpiece is up to it, King. Look at him; the mans a physical specimen, and he is certainly no slouch in the ring.
Lilian Garcia:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, from Los Angeles, California, weighing 265 lbs, The Masterpiece Chris Masters!
We now wait for a moment as the crowd buzzes, before hearing the sound of ...
The crowd EXPLODES into quite possibly the biggest pop of the night as the music commences, only to then grow even louder as
Rob Van Dam
walks out onto the stage. Stopping, RVD takes a moment to take the reaction in, before nodding in approval and walking down the ramp, slapping hands with the fans before stopping to do his classic R ... V ... D thumb taunt along with the crowd. Smiling, Van Dam then jogs down the rest of the ramp and rolls into the ring, before continuing to pose for the fans.
Joey Styles:
Last night, to an amazing ovation, Rob Van Dam made his return to the WWE with a very impressive showing, falling just short of winning the Royal Rumble Match. Tonight, RVD makes his return to Monday Night RAW, and I think its fair to say that tonights just about matches it.
Jerry Lawler:
As RVD said earlier, hes been waiting over a year for this moment, and he sure looks like hes enjoying it!
Jonathan Coachman:
It doesnt matter how much these morons cheer RVD, or how long hes been waiting for this moment. The fact of the matter is that tonight, Van Dams gonna be rusty, and he cant afford that against The Masterpiece.
Lilian Garcia:
His opponent, from Battle Creed, Michigan, weighing 225 lbs, making his return to Monday Night RAW ... Rob ... Van ... Dam!
Match Four
Singles Match:
Chris Masters
Rob Van Dam
The crowd are immediately into this match, with RVD taking a moment to take it all in once in the squared circle, before the two lockup for the first time. Masters obviously overpowers Van Dam, using his significant strength advantage to his, well, advantage at first, only for Van Dam to pick the pace up, hitting a few arm drags to keep the more powerful Masters off balance. Masters, however, is able to regain control not far into the match, as in what could perhaps be looked upon as a sign of ring rust, RVD goes up to the top rope too early without Masters being sufficiently weakened, allowing Masters to make his way over to the corner and cut RVD off, before sending him crashing down to the mat with a monstrous superplex. From here, we get the mandatory period of heel dominance, with Masters continuing to use his power, content for now to just punish Van Dam and only look for the pin attempt on the odd occasion. Following RVD almost mounting a comeback by escaping off the shoulders of Masters after being scooped up, Masters begins to get serious, as he cuts off the flurry from RVD with a Polish hammer to the charging superstars, following some quick rights from Van Dam.
Masters can only keep RVD down for a two count though, and with his inexperience coming into play, Masters is destined to slip up, which he does by calling for the Masterlock, following some mounted punches, only for RVD to then counter the Masterlock attempt by wrapping his legs up around the midsection of Masters and rolling him up for a two count. Masters tries to strike immediately after that, nailing a kick to the midsection, before trying to Irish whip Van Dam into the corner, only for Van Dam to reverse, then strike with a running shoulder block to the midsection. Van Dam hits a few more, then flips back and comes back at Masters, sending him flying overhead with a monkey flip. Getting right back up, Van Dam uses the last bit of energy in him to run off to the ropes, then bounce back, cartwheel over and hit a majestic moonsault to a big pop from the crowd. Following this burst of energy, Van Dam remains down beside Masers, who is also reeling following the string of offensive moves from Mr. Monday Night.
With the referee making his mandatory count, both men are forced to fight back up to their feet so as to not get counted out, going to opposite sides of the ring to do so. Slowly, they stagger towards one another, with Masters going for a right hand, only for RVD to duck. Masters swings for another right, but again, Van Dam ducks before blasting off a quick series of his own, sending Masters staggering back into the ropes. Looking to immediately follow up, Van Dam sends Masters off with an Irish whip, then catches him with a back body drop on the rebound. Masters gets up holding his back, although hes soon sent back onto it as RVD nails a snap suplex, then makes the cover, getting a two count. Van Dam looks as if he hasnt missed a beat as Masters gets up, hitting another few quick right hands before whipping him off to the ropes again. Masters springs back at Van Dam, though he jumps over him as Van Dam goes down with the splits, then sends Masters flying overhead with a monkey flip on the rebound. Getting back to his feet, RVD smiles, before looking to the crowd who pop, and running off to the ropes ... then nailing the rolling thunder! Masters is clearly reeling as RVD now covers him, but yet again, he only gets two.
Not wanting to show any disappointment, RVD gets back up to his feet and waits for Masters to do so too, before peppering him with rights and whipping him off into the corner. Looking to the crowd for approval once more, RVD gets a small pop and nods his head, before charging in and smashing his boot into the jaw of Masters with a beautiful spinning heel kick. Masters is on jelly legs as he looks to stagger out of the corner, though he gets scooped up and slammed down by Van Dam in the corner, before Van Dam steps over his body and jumps up to the top rope ... SPRINGING BACK OFF HIS CALVES FOR THE SPLIT LEGGED MOONSAULT --- BUT MASTERS GETS HIS KNEES UP AND RVD CRASHES AND BURNS! Masters slowly gets up with a smile on his face, looking down at RVD who is writhing in pain on the mat. Slowly, RVD starts to get up, only to get scooped up by Masters into a torture rack position, with Masters contorting the body of RVD for a moment ... BEFORE DROPPING TO HIS KNEES AND SENDING A SHOCK RIGHT THROUGH THE SPINE OF RVD! Masters stays on his knees for a moment, smirking as RVD rolls around the mat in pain before confidently making the cover, only to get two! Masters cant believe it as he gets up, shouting at the referee, before calling for the Masterlock. The crowd gives decent heat as RVD slowly struggles back to his feet ... AND MASTERS KEENLY LOOKS TO LOCK IN THE MASTERLOCK --- BUT RVD QUICKLY COUNTERS AND SNAPMARES HIM OVER!
Masters is shocked as he turns and wildly swings for a clothesline, but RVD ducks under it and runs off to the corner, jumping up to the second rope ... THEN COMING BACK WITH A THRUST KICK TO THE JAW OF MASTERS! Masters is down, and possibly out with that kick catching him right on the button, prompting RVD to head across to the corner and spring up to the top rope ... THEN LAUNCH HIMSELF INTO THE AIR FOR THE FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH --- AND LAND DIRECTLY ON TOP OF MATSERS! RVD rolls around in pain for a moment before making the cover and getting the three count.
Winner: Rob Van Dam
Lilian Garcia:
Here is your winner, Rob ... Van ... Dam!
The crowd gives a huge pop as Rob Van Dam gets back up to his feet and has his hand raised by the referee, signifying his big return victory in a hard fought match against The Masterpiece. Wanting to acknowledge the fans, Van Dam quickly heads across to the corner and continues to play to them, keeping the large reaction going.
Joey Styles:
Mr. Monday Night RVD making a huge impact upon his return to Monday Night RAW with a big victory over The Masterpiece Chris Masters.
Jerry Lawler:
But what an effort from Masters that was! He had RVD on the ropes there!
Jonathan Coachman:
Exactly right, King. If things had just gone Masters way he would have had RVD put away. Fact is, RVD got lucky.
Joey Styles:
But things didnt go Masters way thanks to RVD. As far as Im concerned, Coach, RVD earned his win here tonight.
We now cut away to see
walking down a hallway, tossing his apple up and down.
Jonathan Coachman:
Regardless of whether RVD earned his win or not, Joe, this man Carlito, hes gonna earn his win against the former, thats right, I said FORMER WWE Champion, John Cena ... next.
*Commercial Break*
We come back from the break to hear ...
The crowd gives some pretty nice heat as the cool Caribbean,
walks out onto the top of the ramp, tossing his apple up and down and talking animatedly about how hes going to kick Cenas ass, while also dissing the fans. Smirking away to himself, Lito seems extremely confident as he makes his way up into the ring, holding his arms out to the fans, continuing to garner heat.
Joey Styles:
Tonight is a big chance for Carlito to make his mark, facing John Cena, who many believe, will not be at his best.
Jonathan Coachman:
It doesnt matter if Cena is at his best, baby, because when it comes down to it, my main man Lito is better than that chump Cena anyway.
Jerry Lawler:
Youve also got to remember that not only is Cena mentally hurting, but after a war with Edge last night, he may well be physically hurting too!
Lilian Garcia:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from San Juan, Puerto Rico, weighing 220 lbs, Carlito!
The crowd elicits a gigantic mixed reaction, as the former WWE Champion, the man who last night lost an intense battle to Edge, The Doctor of Thuganomics
John Cena
runs out onto the stage, then salutes the crowd, walking down the ramp with a look of fierce determination in his eyes. Cena slides into the ring and throws his shirt off out to the crowd, ready for the contest to commence.
Joey Styles:
Say what you will, Coach, but after hearing John Cena speak earlier tonight and seeing him now, I believe Cena is ready for anything Carlito can throw at him.
Jonathan Coachman:
And he would wanna be, cause if hes not, Cenas just a sittin duck for Lito.
Lilian Garcia:
His opponent, from West Newbury, Massachusetts, weighing 248 lbs, John Cena!
Main Event
Singles Match:
John Cena
Despite both men having something to prove, we get a somewhat slow start to this match, with Carlito trying to keep constant space between he and Cena in an attempt to not let Cena take control. Cena, however, is still able to control things early, using side headlocks to keep on top of Carlito, before Carlito escapes with some body shots and a poke to the eye. Carlito then charges at Cena, only to be thrown over the top rope and out to the floor. Taking his time on the outside, Carlito is allowed to recover by the referee who initially restrains Cena, before eventually letting him go out to the ring. This, however, gives Carlito a chance to take control, as after running from Cena and sliding back into the ring, he then stomps on Cena, and despite Cenas attempts to fight back, Lito is able to smother Cena and put together a solid period of dominance. Allowing Cena to play the face in peril for an extended time, Carlito goes to the bodyscissors a few times (continuing the assault on Cenas midsection which edge began last night), which Cena eventually fights back out of, before running off to the ropes, only to be rocked with a beautiful dropkick by Lito for a two count. Looking annoyed at the fact that Cena kicked out, Lito goes high risk, heading up to the top rope. He then waits for Cena to get up, before jumping from the top rope and going for a crossbody ... BUT CENA CATCHES HIM AND HOISTS HIM UP FOR THE F-U --- ONLY FOR LITO TO SLPI OUT!
Carlito then runs off to the ropes behind Cena and bounces back, before being caught with a kick to the midsection and thrown overhead with a fisherman suplex from Cena, sending both men down. Slowly, both men struggle back to their feet, before beginning the usual fist exchange, which Cena of course wins. Looking to follow up, Cena then tries to whip Lito off to the ropes, only for Lito to reverse, with Cena bouncing back, then taking his foe down with a jumping shoulder block. Cena then springs back up to his feet and takes his rising opponent down with a second shoulder block, before running off to the ropes and now connection with a clothesline. The former WWE Champion is fired up as he gets back to his feet, screaming out to the crowd to get them excited, before ducking a wild swing from Carlito ... AND DRILLING HIM DOWN WITH THE PROTOPLEX! Cena now gets back to his feet and raises his hand to a massive mixed reaction, before telling Carlito he cant see him, running off to the ropes, bouncing back, brushing off his shoulders ... AND NAILING THE FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Cena gets right back to his feet and raises his hands, before poising himself, waiting on Lito. Slowly, the native of Puerto Rico fights back to his feet, before turning to face Cena ... AND GETTING SCOOPED UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS --- BUT LITO RAKES THE EYES OF CENA, THEN LANDS ON HIS FEET IN FRONT OF CENA --- SPINNING NECKBREAKER!
Carlito looks shocked at his own move, though he soon enough makes the cover ... only to get two! Carlito argues with the referee for a moment and pounds the mat in frustration, before getting back to his feet and stalking Cena from behind as he starts to get back to his feet ... BEFORE GOING FOR THE BACKCRACKER --- BUT CENA INSTANTLY SCOOPS LITO UP AND PLANTS HIM WITH THE F-U! Looking to finish the job, Cena grabs Lito by the leg ... AND HE LOCKS IN THE STF-U! Carlito struggles at first, looking to get to the ropes, though he soon realises hes caught in the middle of the ring ... AND HE TAPS OUT!
Winner: John Cena
via pinfall
Lilian Garcia:
Here is your winner, John Cena!
Cena gets right back up to his feet and has his hand raised by the referee, celebrating his victory.
Joey Styles:
A hard fought victory for John Cena, overcoming the odds here to ...
Cena continues to have his hands raised in the air when suddenly ...
The crowd goes ballistic as Angle stands over Cena, staring down at him with amazing intensity.
Joey Styles:
Jonathan Coachman:
Ha, I knew Kurtd come round.
Joey Styles:
What does this mean? Does Kurt really believe Cena attacked him last night at the Royal Rumble? Ladies and gentlemen, we dont know the answer to that, but we may find out next week. For now, good night from Orlando.
Angle continues to stare down at Cena as we fade away to black.
April 2, 2006 | Allstate Arena; Rosemont, Illinois
Perfect Poster
Vince gives me a comedy gimmick
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Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
PP's Royal Rumble Review
Sorry about this being up so late, but hey, better late then never, right?
Decent opening video package, with the Edge/Cena part done very well, much more then Batista/Henry. The actual video package with the narrator was very bland and generic, but it's only a video package, so it will do. The RAW side of opening commentary was rather brutal, tbh. I couldn't feel any flow throughout it, even if it was only a few lines. Anyways, let's get to the damn opener, shall we?
I don't know how much I am for having a huge multi man match the same day that you have the 30 man Royal Rumble, but if you are, at least it's in the opener and Cruiserweights, with none of them being potential WWE Champions within the next 2-3 years, at best.
Loved Kash's strategy at the beginning. There's 9 guys gunnin' at him, no reason to get himself hurt right away. Take your time and let everyone beat up on everybody else. However, he was only due to get his little beating that he got, at least he was smart and immediately went outside. But doesn't Kash have any allies? And where the hell are all of these other heels? The only other people you could guess are even tweeners are Nunzio and Noble, but they went after Kash too. I know Kash is the champ and everyone is after him, but you would think he would make some kind of alliance with somebody since he was going to get ambushed when he got in there. Is Kash stupid, or am I missing something?
Woah, abrupt finish there. Would've thought that it might've went a few more minutes, but I guess having Kash be sly and sneaky until the end isn't a bad thing. Most guys at least got a few minutes of fame, except Funaki, Nunzio, and Scotty 2 Hotty, but hey, they're jobbers, they weren't a serious threat anyways. By the way you are writing this Mexicools vs. Kash feud Kash doesn't have anybody on his side, so the Mexicools should be able to beat him in a singles match, numbers wise, especially since Kash isn't a huge physical specimen who can take 3 guys out on his own.
I haven't been really focused on the RAW side of things, but a McMahon/Michaels feud like in real life isn't my favorite cup of tea. Whoever eliminates Shawn should get a nice rub, but you'll probably just do something cheesy like having Shane or Vince himself come in and eliminate him. Don't do that, plz. Have somebody get a nice rub.
Very awesome Women's Championship match, much better then the opener, imo. Mickie getting involved late was no surprise, her actions after the match were a tad though. Expecting psycho Mickie-bitch to start coming out these next few weeks. The way that you booked this match and feud so far, I'm pretty sure we will have Mickie/Trish at WM, which, while not original by any means, is the best option possible for a Women's Championship match. Victoria's domination was played well, but Trish's win was inevitable.
Heel Triple H is a refreshing sight to see, and I'd actually like to see him eliminate Shawn so we could see the blockbuster matchup between them at Wrestlemania. Triple H, despite being who he is, isn't one of the main guys tonight in the running, that's essentially Orton and Angle. A surprise would be nice, but I don't think Trippers is gonna pick up the huge win, despite what he says.
I'm happy that you have built Mark Henry into a credible heel. Some fresh feuds and main eventers are great, and despite his slow agility, Mark could be a decent upper midcarder/lower main eventer in this thread. He ain't winning against Batista, but at least you made him a threat, which is a job in itself.
I liked the 'Who's the Bigger Man' challenge at the beginning, with each man wanting to show off his strength, but the little encounter a few paragraphs down, with each trying to take down the other with a shoulderblock, I wasn't fond of. Henry's part, to be exact. He should've did the clothesline the first time, putting Batista off guard. Mark shouldn't have even took Batista's 'man-strength challenge'. He's trying to win his first ever World Championship, it's not like he's facing Val Venis.
A DQ finish? Very questionable booking decision, imo. If Henry was champion, I'd be all for this result, but Henry's rage getting the best of him annoys me. The only thing I can seem to get out of this is that we will be getting a rematch between the two, in some sort of gimmick, at No Way Out. This feud has a lot of tires left on it, so the rematch isn't a bad thing, it's just that you think people would use their heads in crunch situations like this. On a TV, this would probably have been the perfect finish, but on a PPV, I would've really been pissed off at seeing this. Or hell, even if Batista won by countout or flukey pin, I would have acceptted it, but having Henry not using his brains and intentionally getting DQ'd irks me a large amount.
A rather generic promo by HBK, if I must say so myself. We just get the normal 'I'm the Showstoppah, Main Event, Heart Break Kid and I deserve to be in the Main Event of WM bullcrap.' I know you can't do much more with him, given his feud with McMahon, but I hope for the sake of HBK, that he just faces an opponent of McMahon's choosing, not Vince himself, as that'd be dreadful, match-wise.
MOTN so far, between Edge and Cena. I thoroughly enjoyed Edge's hesitation at the beginning of the match, knowing that Cena wanted to rip him a new asshole, simply waited until he could take the crowd out and picked his spots in the match. Third straight match in a row with a 'dirty' finish, either via interference or DQ, and two of those being World Championship matches is a little annoying, despite this one being the most understanding of the 3. I hope that this isn't a trend though for future things to come. Once in a while I got lost in the match, especially during the last minute or so when Cena had Lita ready for the F-U, when you said that he did a whole lap, I thought they were outside, only for Edge to spear him seconds after and pick up the win. Idk, maybe I just zoned out for a minute or something, but I had to reread that part a few times. Nevertheless, and awesome WWE Championship match.
Liked the desperation interview by Angle. Much better then HBK's a little earlier, I must indeed say. Angle knows he's running out of opportunities, so he's got to make the most out of it here tonight. Probably will, but I hope he does it a different way and you swerve us. Angle/Edge is almost a certain to happen at WM anyways, so give someone else a chance to shine, plz.
Michaels we knew was gonna be the first entrant, but lol at the next 4 entrants being nothing more then jobbers. And lol at you eliminating Hardcore Holly first. Clearly you hate the fucker. FYI, it's "tune up the band", not "toot up the band"
. What the hell was up with entrants 2-10 all being heels though? And none of them real threats at winning the Rumble, mind you. I would've liked to see a couple of bigger name stars come out, maybe Benoit a tad earlier, but the action through the first 10 was very good, with everybody getting some time to shine. Heh, just as I ask where all of the faces are, four of the next five are relatively popular faces. Spread these guys out, man. 11-20 was a better collection of wrestlers, I'll give you that, as there was a couple who could surprise everybody with a victory, but apparently all of the big names are coming at the end. Another little screw up when Carlito comes in "Masters is now instructed by Masters". I know you meant Carlito, but just be sure to reread your work and find mistakes like that.
at Goldust being in for only 11 seconds. Poor you for not enjoying some fine comedy from Goldust.
Ugh, an appearance by Shane O'Mac, big surprise. At least it was something different from their irl feud and Michaels took both Shane and HHH out. And awesome that Helms eliminated HBK about 10 seconds after HBK was getting momentum. Loved that you had Helms go into the final four after starting from 6. Kid has talent and that's a way to get him over, let him get far in the Rumble, eliminate a few guys, until he can't go after 45 minutes or so. Wonderful. My favorite thing, booking-wise, that I've seen in this match. Another thing: "which Angle does as he gets scooped up then dropped across the top turnbuckle with old school." It's actually called a Snake Eyes when Taker drops a guys head on the turnbuckle. Fantastic final encounter between Orton and Angle, Angle not letting go of that Ankle Lock was his downfall, though. I like the choosing of Orton as the winner, not only because most people had Angle pegged the favorite, but we get the very fresh Batista/Orton feud, at least I'm guessing. Very fun match to read, and a very good job on your first Rumble match.
Final Grades:
Your use of the words was pretty good, having a wide variety and not using the same words over and over, except for your transitions. Try to find something other then 'but, then, or before' when going from one move to another. I know I might sound like a hypocrite saying that, but it got a little annoying after a while. 8/10
I was heavily entertained, as this only took me 4 1/2 hours to complete, when it usually takes me an hour and a half to read a normal 2 hour show. I was very pleased, and there weren't many dull moments in your matches. 9/10
The most important part of the BTB, and I think you had a few mistakes, booking wise, tbh. 3 dirty finishes in a row is not something that I would like to see, and I'm pretty sure that the fans would be pissed off too, especially when the first two, I believe, could've been avoided. Also the lack of star power in the first ten of the Rumble was astonishing. 6/10
I would say, for a first effort, that this was a phenominal PPV debut, BKB. Your Royal Rumble was quite impressive, and while a few slight booking mistakes, all are easily fixable. I hope I didn't sound too harsh, and you know this is only constructive criticism. Good work, and I'm excited to follow the Road to WM now. Just don't look too much into the grade, either. 23/30 = 77%
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Victoria, Australia
Posts: 4,403
Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
Raw Feedback
Nice recap of the Rumble results, I hate when people dont do this on the first show after a PPV. It basically told us everything that went down, and I think it shows that Angle and the mystery attacker is going to be the main thing going on with Raw, with the mention you gave it, although I would have liked to have seen Helms epic performance get mentioned to
Opening the show with Edge is the right option, as he just came off the huge victory against Cena at the Rumble, and he needs to have time to brag and stuff. I liked how he begun, simply bragging about his victory over Cena, yet also giving the crowd a mouthful, and while I liked the insulting Cena bit, I think you tried a little to hard to get Edge some heat, as I personally felt as if he almost kept repeating himself a little to often, and something Ive said to you always, is that I hate promos that stall, and dont really go anywhere, and this is what this one became after a little while. Also, a real little thing, that doesnt really matter, I can picture Edge calling the crowd idiots but not pigs. Edges plan about how Cena held the title for him was all explained rather wonderfully, and I liked how he changed the topic to Angle, and have him a mouthful to, while putting himself over in the process. It was all done really well, except I dont think he really needed to say choked as many times as he did, I know he was mocking Angle and shit, but it just didnt feel right, as a matter of fact, it down right annoyed me. Anyway, Id say Edge was okay here, nothing great, I enjoyed the content, but still a few little characteristics you need to work on, imo. Kurt Angle interrupting Edge is something that I was waiting for, it was always going to happen, so I really hope you hit the rest of this promo very well. It started off well with Edge immediately trying to calm down Angle, however, Angle saying something like SHUT UP rather than SHUT YOUR DAMN MOUTH would have been better. I just feel as if Angles really pissed off, so minimal syllables is what is needed, and just taking away two words there, would have made the speech seem a little more effective. What Angle went on to say from here was good, but once again, I think you over did it a bit, as the less he would have said, the more intense he would have looked. Edge is supposed to be shit scared of Angle, so claiming that hes better than Angle right in his face is something I really couldnt see happening, especially in the foul mood Angle was in. Id expect Angle to just fuck him up right there and then, but he didnt. Edge blaming Cena, and he actually had some pretty good arguments, therefore this was probably my favorite part of the promo. Angle nailing the Angle Slam before leaving was good, but it probably should have happened a couple of minutes earlier. Overall, an okay opening promo, but nothing stand out, and definitely room for improvement.
Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas storylines get done way to much these days, so Im hoping yours is going to be a little different to how a majority of them end up. Shelton on commentary seemed very against Haas which is good, however Ive got a sense that hell lighten up in coming weeks. The Haas/Cade match would have been alright, although nothing interesting really seemed to take place, except perhaps you could have went into a bit better detail regarding the offense that Cade got in. Anyway, a strong win for Haas, which is something that Benjamin hasnt been able to do, and I just hope that it makes Benjamin angry, rather than all like oooh yes, I wanna be your partner. Im sick of the old WGTT angle being done over and over again tbh. Shelton making the save for Haas because of the RWC attack was predictable, although Im really hoping its a swerve, and they do not end up together, or if they do, you better do something very original.
Victorias promo for mine was very good. You used her and Trishs history well, while also hinted towards what Im thinking is going on between Trish and Mickie. Everything was spot on here, and Im going to be curious to see just how Victoria fits in to the womens division with Trish/Mickie clearly being the money feud at the moment. I dont know how youre going to do it, and I dont care, just dont have her lost in the shuffle as she kinda owns. Vickie > Trish > Mickie tbh.
Umm, have I missed something with Flair and Chavo or is this the first time they have associated with each other in this thread? I dont mind the idea of making new tag teams to help out your division, however I must say, despite the coolness of Flair, this was a rather generic segment. I hate love fest segments like these, although I guess it hypes up a new tag team, just maybe for now on allow Flair to do a majority of the talking.
An interesting meeting between Trish and Mickie. I really liked it as it once again hints towards the Trish heel turn that Ive been predicting, and craving all so much. Despite Trish being concerned Im pretty sure its all bullshit, and shes just covering her own ass, and although Im not to sure exactly how she is going to become a heel, I must say I cant wait for it. By the way, heel Trish > face Mickie, so remember that result for Mania.
The new tandem of Flair and Guerrero getting a match against the World Tag Team Champions on their first night together is another thing I find rather random, although I guess it shows your lack of a tag team division atm. The match itself wasnt much of a fun read, with Flair and Guerrero not really able to do much with the big men, but at least its done now. Anyway, with Falir and Guerrero picking up the cheap victory, I can see them getting a title shot, and possibly a little feud, and with this, as well as WGTT/RWC possibility, all of a sudden your tag team division will be getting back on track a little. Still a lot of work to do though, but I believe in you
I understand RWC being mad, and them against WGTT next week? Pulling the plug early makes me think that maybe WGTT wont last and well get a singles feud. If thats the case, Im expecting Flair and Guerrero/RWC to carry your division for awhile. Not the best feud in the world, but considering your lack of teams, itd still be okay. Good work trying to spice things up anyway.
I love the angry Triple H, although him being angry with Bischoff, and just snarling at him makes me think he is going to become a face. If thats what happens, Ill be quite shattered tbh. Anyway, hes not getting Shane McMahon, and well everything is pointing towards DX by looking at this, so I hope you venture away from that. Everybody seemed in character and shit BTW, so yeah.
Stratus/Michelle is definitely not a match for the ages, due to the mule (Candice) sucking ass a little. With that being said, the constant interference from Victoria was good, although was still a pretty dull match. Props on the ending, especially the Matrish turning into a Head scissors Takedown, I thought that was pretty awesome. The Victoria attack after the match was okay, as was Mickie getting involved. Mickie accidentally hitting Trish was great, paying her back for last night, and furthering the heel turn.
Lito/Masters interview was really good. Everything was pretty much spot on, I especially love Masters stepping out of the shadow a little bit, yet its good that hes still staying a step behind his superior in Carlito. Their two matches tonight should be great; they for me are close to my favorite thing going on in this thread atm. Oh, I wasnt to sure about the whole Kermit thing to, just didnt really find it funny, stop running Litos charisma
It seems as time in this promo as if you are trying to keep Triple H as a tweener, however lines like this, I know, I know; Im not a fan of the guy either. In fact, you might even say I hate his guts. Make him seem way to much like a face, when theyre a tweener, its better not to play to the crowd as I felt you had Triple H do a little bit. Besides that, it was pretty good, and Shawn Michaels was pretty much spot on. I love the angle HBK was taking, talking about the attitude and what not, just really compelling stuff, imo. As for Helms, hes owning right now, and he was pretty damn good on the mic to, and his match next week with Shawn Michaels should steal the show.
The RVD interview was decent for an RVD interview, since he sucks on the mic, so its never really going to be top notch stuff. Masters is Carlitos lackey and always will be BTW. I also liked how RVD made sure to mention Carlito, letting us know that their feud is not finished. Decent enough work, man.
John Cenas interview was alright, although nothing great. Typical Cena really, admitting he messed up, so now he will be a better competitor for it is basically what the story is that he was saying, now hes ready to rebound and blah, blah, blah. A pretty generic Cena promo if Im honest. The only thing I liked was the mention of the attacking and that it wasnt him, but we cant be sure. Cant wait to see Angle confront Cena by the way.
I felt the RVD/Masters match could have had a bit of a better match write up, especially considering your love for both men, but it wasnt to be. So despite being a little disappointed with what I read, the booking was all spot on with RVD looking good in his return, and Masters looking pretty strong in defeat. I probably would have liked for Masters to not have been reversed so easily towards the end of the match, but besides that, this did its job.
Carlito > Masters This is my thoughts regarding Lito walking down a hallway, tossing an apple
A pretty good main event, I liked the fact that Carlito got a fair bit of domination, although with that being said, I must admit, I was a little disappointed with the fact that he wasnt able to pick up the victory because of Angle, would have been epic. Anyway, good win for Cena, bad loss for Carlito, considering Cena may have been a little mentally weak, and the aftermath with Angle nailing Cena with an Angle Slam was cool. It doesnt let us know what Angle thinks yet, and it leaves us with plenty of questions to be answered, and now I cant wait to see Cenas reaction, and just whether or not Edge will still be involved some how.
Overall, it was a pretty good fallout show from the Rumble, continuing everything interesting that has taken place, mainly the Angle being attacked storyline. You have finally started working on your tag division, your mid carders are getting more and more recognition, while your womens division has an interesting storyline going as well. Youre certainly going in the right direction, I just feel you need to find that consistency that will make all your segments as good as your best ones. When you find that, youll be set, until then, youre still doing pretty well. Good effort.
BkB Hulk
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Behind Blue Eyes
Posts: 12,076
Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
Thanks for the feedback to both of you guys. The one thing I want to address is the pairing of Chavo & Flair. At this stage it does seem random, although I did give explanation in that they are friends, which comes into play with a future storyline. That's all I'll say for now.
February 3rd, 2006 | Amway Arena; Orlando, Florida
Size Matters ... Matters
This Friday night, SmackDown! comes to you from the Amway Arena in Orlando, Florida, and with an epic Royal Rumble event having just passed five days ago, the fallout is sure to cause a must see show.
The Road to WrestleMania officially kicked into gear last Sunday night when we found out who would be guaranteeing themself a WrestleMania main event and match against the world champion of their choosing by defeating twenty-nine other superstars and winning the Royal Rumble. Despite the best efforts of many fine superstars, it was a SmackDown! superstar who was able to take out the match, with The Legend Killer Randy Orton being the last man standing, eliminating an intense Kurt Angle last to ensure his victory. Randy Orton is scheduled to be in the building this Friday night, and we could well find out which brand it is that Orton wishes to be on come WrestleMania. What will he hear from The Legend Killer this Friday night?
Another man who certainly made an impact Sunday night is The Worlds Strongest Man Mark Henry. In the lead-up to Henrys encounter with World Heavyweight Champion, Henry attempted to get into the head of Batista by telling him that despite all of the aggression he had shown, despite all of the pain that he had caused Batista, that really, it was nothing personal ... he just wanted the title. Henry seemed to think he had shaken Batista up, however, Batista came out and laughed Henry off, telling him he was just like everyone else who had stood before him in his ten month long reign as World Heavyweight Champion, and that ultimately, just like everyone else, he would fall to the might of The Animal. This perhaps tipped Henry over the edge, as when he finally got his shot at the title on Sunday night, he wasnt concerned about winning the gold; rather, he was concerned about causing Batista pain, getting himself disqualified, before busting Batista open with a television monitor and crushing both Batista and an announce table with the force of The Worlds Strongest Splash. Fresh off this assault, what will be the mindsets of both the aggressor, Henry, and the man who now wears the battle scars, Batista?
Last Friday night we saw The Undertaker make his first appearance of 2006 when, after Randy Orton won a ten man over the top battle royal in a preview for the Royal Rumble, The Undertaker appeared in the ring and threw Orton over the top, signifying his want to win the Royal Rumble. This past Sunday The Deadman came close, making it to the final three, only for Orton to gain revenge by eliminating The Undertaker on his way to victory. Following this, tonight we see the return of The Deadman to the ring on Friday nights, as he faces the tough Irish bastard, Finlay. With these two heavy hitters facing off we are sure for quite a spectacle. Will The Undertaker be able to make a successful return to the SmackDown! ring, or will Finlay crash the party?
Another man who fared very well in the Royal Rumble Match was the youngster, Bobby Lashley. Using his pure, unadulterated strength, Lashley was able to not just make it down to the final five, but also claim the record for most eliminations in the match this year with six, including both members of the World Tag Team Champions, the massive Kane & Big Show. Coming off this impressive showing, The Dominator will be in action against a man who also did no harm to his reputation in the Royal Rumble Match in Paul Burchill. Will the Brit be able to be the first man to defeat Lashley in singles action, or will Lashley once again prove why many consider him to be a vital part of the future of the WWE?
In other action this past Sunday night, the Cruiserweight Champion Kid Kash was forced to defend his title against all of the cruiserweights on the SmackDown! roster in a Cruiserweight Open, after his scheduled title defence against Juventud had to be cancelled due to a severe concussion that Juventud suffered at the hands of Kash in a heinous assault. Despite SmackDown! General Manager Theodore Long punishing Kash by putting him in a match against all comers at the Rumble, the champ was still able to retain, even if by the skin on his teeth, when he capitalised on the work of Super Crazy & Psichosis and made the pin on Nunzio. However, with Kash retaining his title, it seems his punishment isnt over, as for the second time in just five days, Kash will be putting the gold on the line, this time against Jamie Noble. If there was ever a man who could match aggression and tenacity with Kash, it would have to be The Pitbull Jamie Noble, who has proven time and time again just how vicious he can be. With two of the more aggressive cruiserweights on the roster set to go one on one, will Kash be able to successfully defend his title for the second time in five days, or will we see a new champion in Noble?
While Kash has been looking dominant as Cruiserweight Champion, not all champions have been having the best of luck. Two weeks ago Melina bragged of how her boys, the WWE Tag Team Champions, MNM, were not only the top tag team in the company, but also two of the top singles wrestlers, claiming that Nitro would be able to beat whichever chump it was that Teddy Long had lined up for him to face. The confidence of MNM only grew when Shannon Moore stepped up to the plate, however, Moore more than took Nitro to the limit, eventually pinning him for the three count, much to the shock of MNM. Angered by Nitros loss, following Moores match with Mark Henry last week, MNM sought Moore out and informed him that they had arranged with Teddy Long for Shannon Moore to face Joey Mercury on the next SmackDown!. Tonight, we see that match, so will Moore be able to again defeat a member of the tag champs, or will Joey Mercury can a measure of revenge for his comrades?
With Brent Albright also set to make his debut, and Mr. Kennedy scheduled to be in the arena, this Friday Night SmackDown! promises to be a must watch show at 9/8C on The CW Network. Dont miss out.
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Victoria, Australia
Posts: 4,403
Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
A Randy Orton promo some time on Smackdown? Boy, that should be entertaining
. Okay, seriously, not the biggest fan of Orton on the mic, but I guess you better get good at writing him, with him winning the Rumble and all.
Mark Henry/Batista is not a good enough feud to headline the blue brand into No Way Out, it befuddles me when I try to think why in the hell you continues it.
Feeding Finlay to The Undertaker is alright. At this stage I have no idea what 'Taker is going to be doing for 'Mania, so hopefully you find something good.
I don't like the sound of Burchill jobbing to Lashley, which I'm certain will happen
Kash/Noble is going to OWN!
Moore and Hardy against MNM should be a breath of fresh air.
The debut of Albright, plus Kennedy and Mysterio continuing their feud should also be pretty good.
Show looks like it will be alright.
BkB Hulk
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Behind Blue Eyes
Posts: 12,076
Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
February 3rd, 2006 | Amway Arena; Orlando, Florida
'Size Matters ... Matters'
Our broadcast begins with a recap video of the events of the Royal Rumble, which took place just twenty-four hours ago as the Royal Rumble theme song Stricken plays in the background. Results from SmackDown! include Kid Kash retaining his Cruiserweight Championship in a Cruiserweight Open, as well as Batista defeating Mark Henry by DQ when Henry snaps, eventually splashing Batista through the Spanish announce table. On the RAW side of things, we see Trish Stratus retain her Womens Championship against Victoria, despite an inadvertent distraction from Mickie James, who Stratus accidentally Chick Kicked, as well as Edge retaining his WWE Championship in a hard fought battle with John Cena. It then finishes with highlights of the Royal Rumble Match, such as Bobby Lashley running rampant, Rob Van Dam making his return, Kurt Angle being shown beaten and bloodied backstage, yet still fighting through to compete in the Royal Rumble Match, only to be eliminated last by Randy Orton, who poses in front of the WrestleMania logo as pyro shoots of behind him.
We now see the usual SmackDown! opening video, accompanied by the SmackDown! theme song, Rise Up. As soon as that finishes up we cut into the Amway Arena to a buzzing crowd, who are further fired up by pyro exploding in any which way on the stage. We now pan around to see those excited fans, before finally settling down at ringside to see our broadcast team of Michael Cole & Tazz.
Michael Cole:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night SmackDown!, live here from the Amway Arena, in Orlando, Florida. Im Michael Cole joined here by my partner, Tazz, and partner, it has been just five days from an epic Royal Rumble event, which in my mind, SmackDown! dominated thanks to one man.
Thats right, Cole. Like him or hate him, last Sunday night, Randy Orton proved his talent to all on the grand stage, baby.
Michael Cole:
It truly was a battle of attrition, as Randy Orton managed to outlast RAWs Kurt Angle and claim himself a main event spot at WrestleMania. However, thats not all we saw on the SmackDown! side of things at No Way Out, as we also saw Mark Henry get himself disqualified against Batista, before brutally assaulting the World Heavyweight Champion in a sick, twisted post-match attack.
As I said Sunday night, Cole, Henry made a statement, and if Batista wasnt worried about him like he claimed, well he had better be thinkin bout Henry now.
Michael Cole:
Kid Kash also retained his Cruiserweight Championship in a Cruiserweight Open, however, he will defend his title again tonight by order of SmackDown! General Manager, Theodore Long, as he goes one-on-one with Super Crazy.
Not only that, Cole, but The Deadman, The Phenom, The Undertaker makes his return to Friday Night SmackDown! tonight, as he goes one-on-one with the tough Irish bastard, Finlay. What a brawl thats gonna be!
The crowd becomes unglued as they react with a massive pop for the
World Heavyweight Champion, Batista
. Big Dave looks none too happy as he walks out onto the stage; in fact, he looks almost as if he is trying to hold back an expression of tremendous pain. Unshaved and untamed, The Animal wears blue jeans and a white singlet instead of his usual attire of a custom made suit, with the World Heavyweight Championship not even in its usual position slung over Batistas shoulder; instead he holds it in his hand down beside him.
Michael Cole:
Here is the man who last Sunday night was absolutely brutalised by Mark Henry, and Tazz, he doesnt look like hes got much sleep since then.
Mission accomplished by The Worlds Strongest Man right there, Cole.
Batista now climbs up into the ring and demands a microphone, which he receives, before striding around the ring.
Alright ...
you got me.
Batista pauses as the crowd stay silent, not sure of what Batista is talking about.
Im gonna be honest here ... I didnt think you could do it. I thought youd just be like everyone else ... but I was wrong.
I ... was wrong.
Batista again pauses, while the crowd stays silent.
We need to end this ... we need ... to settle this. This ... this isnt just a rivalry anymore ... this isnt just about the gold ... this ...
this is personal.
Another pause.
Mark Henry ...
The crowd initially pops, finally understanding what Batista has been talking about, before booing Henry.
Get your ass out here right now.
The crowd buzzes with excitement at the possibility of the face-off, while Batista paces back and forth in the ring, waiting for ...
The crowd explodes into a reaction of pure heat, as none other than the winner of the 2006 Royal Rumble,
Randy Orton
walks out onto the stage. Orton looks the polar opposite of Batista, as, like always, Orton is well groomed; his face cleanly shaven and his hair perfectly styled. With a black coat jacket to cover his Affliction brand t-shirt (along with Affliction brand jeans), Orton looks on top of the world. Smirking, The Legend Killer wastes no time in making his way down to the ring, ignoring the fans at ringside who hurl abuse at him, before climbing up into the ring and receiving a microphone. Orton isnt quick to make a comment, as he instead looks at Batista with a quizzical look on his face, while Batista just stares right back at Orton.
Randy Orton:
Whats the matter, Dave? You alright there, man? Youre looking a little bit ... frazzled.
Orton starts to walk around Batista, continuing to analyse him, as Batista just stares a hole right back through Orton.
Randy Orton:
Is it ... is it that you werent expecting me? Were you expecting somebody else? Dave, I understand that you and Mark Henry, you have your little ... problem, shall we say, but rest assured nobody, and I mean NOBODY is stealing the spotlight ... from me.
Orton smirks, as Batista stays motionless.
Randy Orton:
What you ... you dont follow? You look a little confused there big man, which really, you shouldnt be. You think that what you did this Sunday matters? Your little ass-whooping that you suffered at the hands of Mark Henry? That means nothing NOTHING compared to what
accomplished this past Sunday.
Randy Orton:
For weeks, upon weeks, upon weeks, I told you, Dave, I told all of these people that come the Royal Rumble, I was going to do what I was born to do, that I was going to fulfil my God-given right, that I I was going to win the Royal ... Rumble. When I was telling you this, I wasnt just
saying it.
I wasnt just giving you
my word.
I wasnt just
promising you.
What I was giving you, Dave, and all of these people was
Heat, as Orton pauses.
Randy Orton:
This past Sunday, I didnt just deliver. I didnt just come through on my word. I didnt just fulfil my gospel ... oh no, this past Sunday, I achieved my
Orton again smirks as the crowd again boos.
Randy Orton:
All of this, ALL OF THIS, it was ... born in me. My good looks, my strength, my power, my speed, my mind,
my talent
... I was born ... with it all. My grandfather, the great Bob Orton Sr., was a legend, was an icon of this business at his time. He was a renegade, a pioneer, a revolutionary leader in this industry that we know and that we love today. My father ...
Orton laughs to himself.
Randy Orton:
My father was the
wrestling star on the 1980s. Forget about Roddy Piper, forget about The Iron Sheik, forget about Andre The Giant, hell, forget about Hulk ... Hogan ... the one name the one name of that 1980s that had all of the talent in the world ... was Bob, Orton, Jr. A Hall of Famer, my dad was greater ... than them all.
Heat for the obvious fabrication from Orton.
Randy Orton:
And then ... then theres me.
Massive heat instantly.
Randy Orton:
I could talk about the fact that I was the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion for the past five years. I could talk about how I am the youngest World Heavyweight Champion of all time. I could talk about how not only am I the present, but also the future of this business. I could even talk about how Evolution was the group that was carried by
Heat, as Orton smiles at a still unmoving Animal.
Randy Orton:
Or, I could sum myself up with just a few simple words and say that I I am a
true ... wrestling ... prodigy.
Randy Orton:
My win on Sunday was a mere formality, for, quite simply put, I was
BORN ... to win.
Call it my coming out party, call it my true arrival as the leader of Friday Night SmackDown!, call it whatever you want, because what I call it is destiny. So tonight ... tonight shouldnt be about Dave Batista ... nor should it be about Mark Henry ... oh no. Tonight should be about one man, and one man only ... Randy ... Orton!
The obligatory heat of course comes.
Randy Orton:
These people, Dave, they didnt come here tonight in hope of seeing you get your ass kicked my Mark Henry. No, they came here instead to get a glimpse of the greatness that is Randy Orton, so I suggest you step aside and give these people what they want to see.
Orton looks at Batista, who STILL, continues to stare at Orton.
Randy Orton:
Orton pauses for a moment, content with the fact that Batista is still yet to say anything to him, let alone move.
Randy Orton:
Now, I have some good news, and I have some bad news, some of which applies to these people, and some of which applies to you, Dave. As we all know, just like my father did twenty-one years ago at the very first WrestleMania, we know that I will be headlining the show, that I will be involved in the main event of the evening. Now, the good news is that I will indeed be staying on my home of Friday Night SmackDown!.
The crowd gives a mixed reaction, unsure of what to make of this good news.
Randy Orton:
The bad news and this is the bit that applies to you, Dave the bad news is that come WrestleMania 22, should you still have that World Heavyweight Championship that you hold in your very hands right now ... you wont be holding it any longer once
get through with you, Dave. Should you somehow fluke your way past Mark Henry again, provided youre not too scared to wrestle him again, Dave, at WrestleMania 22 ... that titles as good as mine.
Orton smirks and looks down at the title which Batista continues to hold down beside him, putting himself in some kind of a trance when ...
Are you done?
The crowd pops as Orton looks up, coming out of his trance, shocked that Batista finally opening his mouth.
Really, Randy, are you finished, because if you are Ill just doze back off to sleep and let you continue.
Another pop as Orton simply smirks at Batista.
Now, while normally, I couldnt give a damn which brand it is that you called home, I cant help but say Im happy that you decided to remain here on Friday Night SmackDown!. Why is that, you ask? Its simple. I look forward ... to kickin, your, ass!
Another pop from the crowd as Ortons smirk starts to disappear, though The Legend Killer continues to look cool.
But but before I kick your ass, Ive got a matter that still needs attending to.
The crowd begins to buzz with anticipation once again.
Mark Henry ... Im right here, so come on out and just
to get a piece of me!
With the sound of the crowd popping reverberating in the background, Batista, alongside Orton who seems to have taken up the role on an interested onlooker, waits to see if The Worlds Strongest Man will take up his challenge. We wait and we wait, allowing the tension to build to a fever pitch before we suddenly hear ...
It is indeed a letdown, as
SmackDown! General Manager, Theodore Long
walks out to the top of the ramp in his suit, already holding a microphone. Seemingly not wanting to waste time, Long stops at the top of the ramp and raises his microphone as his music cuts out.
Theodore Long:
Now hold up just a minute there, playas.
We see Batista in the ring sighing to himself, obviously very disappointed.
Theodore Long:
First off, on behalf of everyone on Friday Night SmackDown!, I would like to congratulate Randy Orton on his victory this past Sunday night at the Royal Rumble, takin Friday Night SmackDown! off to new heights in the main event of WrestleMania!
The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Orton nods in the ring.
Theodore Long:
Secondly, to Batista, I would also like to congratulate you on retaining your World Heavyweight Championship this past Sunday night.
Another mixed reaction.
Theodore Long:
Now I know that things didnt exactly go as planned for you, Batista, and I can appreciate that, which is actually, the main reason that Im out here right now.
A small pop as Long pauses.
Theodore Long:
Now Batista, I know that after this past Sunday, youre angry ... youre mad. You are chompin at the bit to get to Mark Henry, and face him one on one, in that very ring. And since I also know that all of these people wanna see that match too, heres what Im gonna do. In a rematch from this past Sunday night, it is gonna be The Worlds Strongest Man Mark Henry, challengin the World Heavyweight Champion, The Animal Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship ...
HUGE pop.
Theodore Long:
... Next week, on Friday Night SmackDown!.
Owned~ Despite Long being a face, the crowd still shit all over this.
Theodore Long:
Now, I know what yall thinkin: Why cant this big title match, why it happen tonight? And yknow, I have an answer for all o you, which Batista himself, should already know.
Long reaches inside his coat from a moment, before pulling out a piece of paper and holding it up.
Theodore Long:
This ... this right here is a letter that I received earlier today from WWEs own Dr. Lloyd Youngblood, and it reads that due to the injuries sustained last Sunday night at the Royal Rumble, the World Heavyweight Champion, Dave Batista, is unable to compete in singles action here tonight, on Friday Night SmackDown!.
Theodore Long:
Now I too, was quite disappointed when I received this letter as I wanted to see that match tonight myself ... but that doesnt mean that you people here in Orlando, Florida cant see a preview!
Big pop.
Theodore Long:
Because while Batista
be barred from competing in singles action, he certainly
is not
barred from competing altogether, so heres what Im gonna do.
Long pauses.
Theodore Long:
Tonight, in our main event, we are gonna see tag team action, as it is gonna be the World Heavyweight Champion, Batista, teaming up with his friend Rey Mysterio ...
Massive pop.
Theodore Long:
... To take on the team of The Worlds Strongest Man, Mark Henry ...
Big time heat.
Theodore Long:
... ... And the winner of the 2006 Royal Rumble, Randy Orton!
Huge mixed reaction as some people boo Orton, while others pop for the match. Orton, meanwhile smiles in the ring, while Batista just continues to look up the ramp at Long.
Theodore Long:
And if you can feel that, gimme a holla holla!
The crowd gives a very big pop as Long acknowledges them by raising his hand and walking off backstage. We then see Orton smirking in the ring, while Batista stares at the mat, before going to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return to SmackDown! to hear ...
The crowd gives a respectable pop as
Shannon Moore
makes his way out onto the stage energetically, calling out to the crowd as he does so. Looking more confident by the week, The Prince of Punk excitedly walks down the ramp, slapping the hands of the fans at ringside, before climbing up into the ring and posing for the fans.
Michael Cole:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to an action packed Friday Night SmackDown!, where already tonight we have seen not just a blockbuster main event match made for next week, where Batista will once again defend his World Heavyweight Championship against his rival, The Worlds Strongest Man Mark Henry, but also a mega tag team main event tonight!
And I cant wait for that! Batista, teamin with Rey Mysterio, to take on the team of Mark Henry and the 2006 Royal Rumble winner, Randy Orton. Man, that ones gonna be off the charts!
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Raleigh, North Carolina, weighing 202 lbs, Shannon Moore!
The crowd now gives some very nice heat as the red carpet is rolled out and the paparazzi prepare themselves, waiting, before the
WWE Tag Team Champions, MNM
confidently stride their way out onto the stage. Stopping, Mercury and Nitro flash the gold that hangs from their pants, while Melina rubs the belts. The trio then begin their march down to the ring, flicking their hair back and raising their arms, garnering heat from the natives of Orlando. As is normally the case, MNM stop at the foot of the ramp as we then get the amazing entrance to the ring from Melina, before Mercury readies himself for action.
Michael Cole:
Ever since Shannon Moore caused an upset victory over Johnny Nitro a few weeks ago on Friday Night SmackDown!, Moore has been rolling, leaving MNM embarrassed. Melina arranged this match for tonight, hoping to save some face for her boys.
Hey, MNM dont need to save no face, Cole. What theyre tryin ta do is teach Shannon Moore a lesson in respect, and while I think Moores got a big upside, that is what I think theyre gonna do.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, being accompanied to the ring by Johnny Nitro & Melina, from Los Angeles, California, weighing 215 lbs, he is one half of the WWE Tag Team Champions, Joey Mercury!
Match One
Tag Team Match:
Shannon Moore
WWE Tag Team Champion
Joey Mercury
w/ Johnny Nitro & Melina
The crowd are fairly fired up for this one, as we see two young men, who quite frankly, own fairly hard. Despite Mercury wanting to make an impression and teach Shannon Moore a lesson, Moore is able to frustrate Mercury in the beginning moments of the match, using his superior speed and agility to his advantage as he dashes around the ring, keeping the aggressive Mercury off guard. However, this proves to be Moores undoing, as he jumps up to the second rope in the corner, then looks for a crossbody block, only for Mercury to wisely drop down out of the way, leaving Moore to crash down to earth with a splat. Mercurys offence from here isnt very exciting as he slows the match down, deciding to grind away at Moore with a mainly ground and pound assault, rather than doing anything flashy. Melina, feeling the need to interject herself, also gets a go at Moore, slapping him as Mercury distracts the referee. Despite MNMs constant attempts to humiliate Moore, the cruiserweight will not be kept down, as he suddenly fires back when Mercury slaps him across the head insultingly. Panicking, Mercury quickly knees Moore in the midsection, then backs off into the ropes, though he is taken down with a big leg lariat from Moore, sending both men down.
Slowly, both men make the ascent back to their feet, with Mercury swinging wildly for a right hand immediately, only for Moore to duck under it, run off to the ropes, then come back with a headscissors takedown, much to the crowds delight. Moore is now fired up as he gets back to his feet and fires off with a series of right hand to a rising Moore, backing him off into the ropes, before attempting to send him off for an Irish whip which Mercury is able to reverse. Springing back, Moore just ducks under a clothesline from Mercury ... then hits a spinning heel kick right on the button! Knowing he has Mercury reeling, Moore makes a cover, alas, he can only gain a two count, leaving him to go high risk as he now heads to the top rope. A dazed Mercury gets to his feet a little slowly, perhaps not knowing where he is as he gives his back to Moore, before turning ... and being taken down with a flying crossbody block ... for a two count! Despite the kick out, Moore gets back to his feet looking fired up as he runs off to the ropes, looking to run back at Mercury ... BUT MELINA GRABS HIS LEG! Despite not quite tripping Moore, Melina provides a distraction, allowing Mercury to recover ... although she pays for it as the referee yells at both her and Nitro to leave from ringside!
Neither Melina nor Nitro are happy, though they slowly start to back up the ramp once they see Mercury stalking Moore, knowing that they could have done the required damage anyway as Moore now turns and gets a boot to the midsection ... AND MERCURY SETS UP FOR THE DOUBLE ARM DDT ... BUT MOORE TAKES HIS LEGS OUT FROM UNDERNEATH HIM AND MAKES A JACKKNIFE COVER ... AND GETS THE THREE!
Winner: Shannon Moore
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, Shannon Moore!
And Moore picks up another victory in singles action against the WWE Tag Team Champions! Getting back to his feet, Moore has his hand raised by the referee ... THEN GETS SENT TUMBLING DOWN AS JOHNNY NITRO JUMPS HIM FROM BEHIND! Nitro then rolls Moore over and gets in a mount position, before RAINING down on him with fists ... when suddenly the crowd cheer ...
Hardy slides into the ring and Nitro instantly runs for the hills, rolling away with his partner Mercury and manager Melina joining him on the outside, leaving Hardy to help Moore back up to his feet.
Hardy & Moore now lean over the ropes and yell out to MNM, who continue to back up the ramp, telling them that they havent seen the last of them.
Michael Cole:
Shannon Moore pulling off another win there partner, but what interests me is Matt Hardy, who has also been having problems with the WWE Tag Team Champions, getting involved and coming to help his old buddy Moore. Could a reunion between these two old friends be on the cards?
I dunno, Cole, but I do know that if MNM has anything to do with it, whatever reunion they have, it aint gonna be a happy one.
We see Moore & Hardy one last time before cutting away backstage to see Josh Matthews standing by backstage.
Josh Matthews:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, he is The Fighting Irishman, Finlay!
The crowd boos as
walks into view, holding his signature shillelagh.
Josh Mathews:
Finlay, as we all know, later tonight youre going to be going one on one with The Undertaker in his return to Friday Night SmackDown!, but firstly, Id like to ask you about this past Sunday, when after inviting Bobby Lashley to try to get the best of you, he did just that by ...
Finlay thrusts his shillelagh up under the jaw of Matthews, telling him to shut up.
Did you just say what I think you said? Lashley ... gettin the best ... of me? Lad, you must be stupider than you look, because last time I checked, Lashley was the one lyin flat on his back when I took
shillelagh and smashed it over the top of
big, bald, ugly head of his. An yeah, after that, he may have lifted me up an thrown me up over the top rope to eliminate me from the Royal Rumble, but as far as Im concerned ... I won the battle. But, if ya think that me an Lashley, if ya think our business is done, then yave got another thing comin to ya, because that was just one battle ... the war ... the
... its far from over.
Finlay flashes the gap-toothed smile for a moment, before continuing.
Now, as far as The Undertaker goes, I understand that his return, its meant to be a big deal, but Deadman, know this ... tonight, ya not steppin into the ring with some rookie whos beaten before ya even step foot in the ring. Ya not facin someone whos gonna back down, an ya certainly not facin someone whos scared of ya. In fact, Taker, ya may even say that ya facin a phenom yourself tonight.
So, Taker, lemme make myself personally clear ... tonight, you bring all ya magic, you bring all ya tricks, you bring all ya games ... and Ill bring
the fight.
Again, Finlay smiles, before walking off as we now head off to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to see
Brent Albright & Jillian Hall
both seated in a locker-room ... before the camera pans back to show
John Bradshaw Layfield
pacing back and forth, looking awfully stressed out.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
I cant believe this! Mark Henry? Mark
Henry? That
is getting another shot at the vailla gorilla? What in the
is this? Planet of the Apes?
Layfield stares at Jillian and Albright. Jillian, intimidated by her boss, looks down at her shoes, while Albright looks up at him, perhaps with a bright idea.
Brent Albright:
Well what do ya plan on doin about it?
Apparently not.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
What do I plan on doin about it? What do ya think, Brent? If I knew what I was gonna do about it, I wouldnt be standin here right now, would I?
JBL stops for a moment to think.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Im not done. There is not a chance, NOT A SINGLE CHANCE, that I am lettin either Mark Henry or Batista go to WrestleMania when it should be
Ya think theyre headliners? My name is money! Batista and Mark Henry are nothin,
compared to J B L!
JBL breathes in heavily, seething away to himself.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Thats it ... Im goin to Teddy Long.
Layfield turns to head for the door, but is soon stopped by the sound of Jillian.
Jillian Hall:
Are you sure thats a good idea? I mean, usually we just end up in more trouble than we begin with when you go to Mr. Long.
Awkward silence.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Theres no
about this, Jillian ... you can help Brent prepare for his match ...
goin to see Teddy.
JBL walks out of view, and we hear the door slamming shut, leaving Jillian & Albright to sigh to themselves.
We then cut away from that and head off to ringside to hear ...
The crowd gives a very nice pop as a man, who last Sunday in particular, has been shooting up the ranks of the SmackDown! roster in
Bobby Lashley
walks out onto the stage and poses, setting off the pyro that shoots out from behind him. As always, Lashley walks down the ramp with a quiet confidence about him, before jumping up onto the apron and climbing into the ring to salute his fans while waiting for his opponent.
Michael Cole:
Last night this man Bobby Lashley proved why he is a future star of the WWE when he made six eliminations, the most in the Royal Rumble, including the mammoth World Tag Team Champions, Kane & Big Show.
Ive been sayin it for awhile, Cole. Lashley is a beast, and he has all the tools, in my opinion, to go all the way.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Colorado Springs, Colorado, weighing 275 lbs, Bobby Lashley!
The crowd lets off some decent heat as
The Bluebloods
make their way down to the ring, Paul Burchill dressed to compete, while William Regal looks rather snappy in a suit. The duo dont waste their time pandering to the fans as they instead just climb up into the ring, prepared for the battle Burchill is about to engage in.
Michael Cole:
Paul Burchill was another man who was rather impressive in the Royal Rumble this past Sunday, but the up and coming Lashley is definitely going to be a test for him tonight.
Im a big rap for this man. In my opinion, he has all the potential in the world because hes big enough, hes agile, he can brawl and he can wrestle. Lashley may be a big test, but dont ever count out Paul Burchill.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, being accompanied to the ring by William Regal, from Chelsea, England, weighing 245 lbs, Paul Burchill!
Match Two
Singles Match:
Bobby Lashley
Paul Burchill
w/ William Regal
Another match with two over enough guys here, the crowd are once again into this one. Burchill tries to prove hes a tough guy in the early going by going toe to toe with Lashley, although Lashley is of course able to overpower the smaller Brit, who soon realises hell have to use his brains, rather than his brawn to get back into the match. Perhaps channelling his mentor in Regal, Burchill uses some smarts when he grabs Lashley by the tights and uses leverage to slam him down face first into the second turnbuckle, bringing an immediate halt to the dominance of Lashley. Burchill then smothers Lashley to the best of his ability, mixing his brawling and submission skills to restrain the bigger man. Oddly enough, William Regal doesnt interfere at any point, or even say anything, perhaps instead studying his pupils progress. The big comeback from Lashley comes when, having endured a camel clutch from Burchill, the big man fights back to his feet with Burchill clinging onto Lashleys back for dear life ... and Lashley rams him back into the corner! Lashley comes forward and squashes Burchill a second time, before backing out of the corner and leaving the prone Brit hanging from the ropes. Despite this comeback from Lashley, Regal at ringside is still silent, watching on as Lashley now charges in at his protégé ... but Burchill gets his foot up and meets the jaw of Lashley, before charging out at Bobby and going for a clothesline ... but Lashley ducks, then drops Burchill with a back suplex!
Both men are down for awhile following this move, before getting up and trading fist in an exchange which Lashley wins, mainly due to his larger size. The Dominator then attempts to whip his foe off to the ropes, although Burchill reverses and sends Lashley off to the ropes ... only for Lashley to explode through Burchill on the rebound with a clothesline! Lashley hits a few more clotheslines, Burchill rising to get met with them time and time again, before finally Lashley changes things up, kicking The Blueblood in the midsection and nailing a delayed vertical suplex for a two count. Lashley looks to follow up, bending over to pick Burchill up, though Burchill, in an act of desperation, rakes the eyes of Lashley, sending him staggering off, before the Brit charges off after him ... and gets thrown overhead with a belly to belly suplex! Lashley is on fire as he grabs a rising Burchill, then quickly gets him in position and pops the hips ... LAYING HIM OUT WITH AN EXPLODER SUPLEX! The crowd comes alive as Lashley motions for the end, before waiting on Burchill to get up ... AND THEN HOISTING HIM UP FOR THE DOMINATOR WHEN HE DOES ... BUT BURCHILL SLIPS OFF AND RUNS OFF TO THE ROPES, THEN GOES FOR A CLOTHESLINE ON THE REBOUND ... BUT LASHLEY DUCKS ... SPEAR! Lashley cuts Burchill in half with the Spear, then immediately makes the cover and gets the three.
Winner: Bobby Lashley
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, Bobby Lashley!
The crowd pops as Lashley gets back to his feet and has his hand raised by the referee, while Burchill rolls to the outside to join Regal.
Michael Cole:
Lashley, impressive as ever with another win here tonight, keeping his undefeated streak going.
And its gonna take a lot to snap that streak, Cole. Ever since debut this man has looked damn near unstoppable.
We got one last view of Lashley, before cutting backstage where we see Kristal Marshall standing by.
Kristal Marshall:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, Chris Benoit!
The crowd pops as the camera pans around to reveal
Chris Benoit
standing beside Kristal.
Kristal Marshall:
Chris, this past month hasnt been good to you. After losing the best of seven series for the United States Title to Booker Ts substitute, Randy Orton, thanks in part to Bookers protégé, Orlando Jordan, you last Sunday night, didnt gain a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship that you longed for by falling short in the Royal Rumble. My question to you, Chris, is where to from here?
Chris Benoit:
Yknow, Im not gonna dodge the truth, Im not gonna lie. Yeah, this past month, its been rough. Ive missed some golden opportunities. The United States Championship ... it was almost mine. I could almost taste the gold ... but then ... then it was taken from me, right when I was ready to grab it. The Royal Rumble Match? Yeah, its not easy to win. You go out there and there are twenty-nine other superstars all thinking the same thing, all wanting to do what you want to do and go on to main event WrestleMania. The difference between me and them though is that I
I could have won it ... I know, that I was a legitimate chance. Two years ago ... two years ago I did it ... but this time ... I just couldnt cut it.
Benoit gives a wry smile, pausing for a moment.
Chris Benoit:
So, where to from here? What next for Chris Benoit? Should I just pack it in, knowing that I would be listening to all the doubters, that I would be proving them wrong? Or, do I do what I have learned from competing in this sport from twenty long years? Do I put my head down, work harder, and strive for the success, for the gold, that I know I can achieve?
Another slight pause.
Chris Benoit:
In twenty years in this industry, Ive learned one thing, and that is to
give in. Booker T, you think that Im done with you? You think that after you took our friendship of ten plus years and threw it away, screwing me just for your own personal gain ... you think Im done with you? Booker, you
beat me. In fact, the last time I checked, the only reason you hold that title is because of the fact that youre inured and that you had not just one, but two other people do the work for you. Im not done ... Im not done. That United States Title, I dont just want it ... I
it. So Booker, when youre fit, when youre healthy, youre gonna find out what you should have known long ago ... Chris Benoit? Hes for real.
We now see Benoit walk out as we go to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to see the
United States Champion, Booker T
standing in his lavish locker-room, looking rather upset, flanked by his beautiful wife
and his protégé,
Orlando Jordan
. The trio all look classy, OJ wearing an expensive looking suit, Sharmell in a beautiful dress, and Booker wearing a suit with the United States Title slung over his shoulder, and clutches holding his legs up.
Booker T:
Can you believe dat? Dat sucka ... dat sucka Chris Benoit ... he wants another shot at me? Aint he learnt yet that this United States Title ... it aint his. Dis here United States Title is
title. Next week, Chris Benoit ... we gonna make him pay.
Booker, along with Jordan & Sharmell, now smile evilly ...
... As we cut away to now see
SmackDown! General Manager, Theodore Long
on the phone, apparently midway through a discussion with whoever is on the other end of the line.
Theodore Long:
Listen playa, I
he would be happy to see you back ... ... ... I think that could work for sure ... ... ... Yeah playa, we can talk about that contract right now if ya ...
Teddy is suddenly cut off as we hear some sort of a commotion in the background, before what appears to be a suit stands behind the shoulder of Teddy ... with both the camera and Teddy looking up ... to show
John Bradshaw Layfield
Theodore Long:
Listen playa, somethin just came up, so Ill have to speak to ya later ... ... ... Alright, holla holla.
Long sighs and closes his phone with a look of pure frustration, before turning his attention to JBL.
Theodore Long:
What do
want, JBL?
John Bradshaw Layfield:
I want you to make things right.
Theodore Long:
What in the hell are you talkin about?
John Bradshaw Layfield:
The world title match next week.
Theodore Long:
Yeah, what about it?
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Insert me into it.
Theodore Long:
And just why would I wanna do somethin like that?
John Bradshaw Layfield
: The question you
be askin is why
you wanna do somethin like that.
Theodore Long:
But I already know the answer to that.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Oh yeah? And what would that be?
Theodore Long:
People actually wanna see Batista defend his World Heavyweight Title against Mark Henry.
Owned. JBL looks shocked at first, before changing from shock to rage.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
you? Do you know who youre talkin to? In case ya forgot, I am the cornerstone of this show, of
show. I am Mr. SmackDown!, I am the reason, that anyone,
tunes in to see this show in the first place? Ya think they wanna see Batista vs. Henry? These people dont give a damn about Mark Henry, nor do they give a damn about Batista! The person that they
paid to see is me ... J B L!
John Bradshaw Layfield:
In fact, Teddy, the only reason you made it past the first year in this job is because you were lucky enough to come along when the longest reigning WWE Champion in SmackDown! history, The Wrestling Gawd, was not only bringin in the ratings, but was also bringin in the people by the barrelful. You wanna talk about ratings? Teddy,
am ratings, and thats why, if ya know whats good for you ... youll find a way to get me the World Heavyweight Title by WrestleMania 22.
More heat.
Theodore Long:
JBL, the
thing I need to get you, is outta my office!
Big pop.
Theodore Long:
But Ill tell ya what. If you are so annoyed that you will not be competin in the main event of WrestleMania 22, I say you take it up with the man, who last Sunday, eliminated
from the Royal Rumble.
JBL gulps, clearly knowing who Long is talking about.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Ya know what? Maybe I will.
And with that, JBL eyeballs Teddy one more time, before storming out of his office, leaving Long to sulk back into his seat in peace.
Meanwhile, we now cut back to ringside to hear ...
The crowd gives decent heat as
Brent Albright
makes his way out, being accompanied to the ring by
Jillian Hall
. Albright wastes little time in making his way down the ramp after doing a gun motion at the top of it, deciding to instead briskly walk down to the ring, chewing some gum obnoxiously.
Michael Cole:
JBL, obviously not getting what he wanted from SmackDown! General Manager, Teddy Long, and I have to give credit to Teddy for standing up to JBL and not giving in to what JBLs demands.
Hey, usually I like the decisions Teddy Long makes, but he has to understand that JBL does equal ratings. The guy is Mr. SmackDown! after all.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Tulsa, Oklahoma, weighing 223 lbs, The Hired Gun Brent Albright!
The crowd now gives a reasonable pop as
bounces his way out onto the stage, full of energy. Funaki slaps hands with the fans on the way down to the ring, before sliding in and peering across the ring at his foe.
Michael Cole:
Well this right here is JBLs Hired Gun, Brent Albrights first match here on Friday Night SmackDown!, and from what weve seen, Tazz, tonights not going to be an easy night for Funaki.
This Brent Albright, hes a big guy, and if JBL sought him out and found him, you just know hes gonna be loaded with talent. Im lookin forward to seein what he can do.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, from Japan, weighing 192 lbs, Funaki!
Match Three
Singles Match:
Brent Albright
w/ Jillian Hall vs.
This match is obviously a squash, used to promote the amazingly epic skills that Brent Albright possesses. Running through Funaki in just about no time, Albright shows us some of his suplex variations as he manhandles a hapless Funaki, before finishing him off with a Half Nelson Suplex into a Crowbar (armbar for those of you who havent seen much Albright) for an easy submission victory.
Winner: Brent Albright
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, Brent Albright!
Albright gets back to his feet and smirks, having his hand raised by the referee, while Jillian climbs up into the ring to join him.
Michael Cole:
Wow. Brent Albright just decimated Funaki in a matter of moments and ...
Michael Cole:
Oh my! It isnt ...
The arena fills with a putrid red smoke, filtering from the top of the stage, with a figure slowly emerging from that smoke ...
The Boogeyman
. The crowd cheers as The Boogeyman slowly walks down to the ring, with Albright waiting on him, daring him to climb into the ring, much like last week. Boogeyman gladly accepts, sliding into the ring ... AND MUCH LIKE LAST WEEK ALBRIGHT RETREATS! Albright slides out of the ring and joins Jillian, quickly backing his way up the ramp.
Michael Cole:
In almost a repeat of last week, Brent Albright again runs away from The Boogeyman. Albright said last week that he wasnt scared of The Boogeyman, but partner, this suggests otherwise.
Hey, Cole, Brent Albright just competed in a gruelling match, and obviously isnt ready for a fight against a fresh Boogeyman. Cut him a little slack will ya?
Michael Cole:
Oh yes, real gruelling. After two minutes Albright must be real tired.
We see The Boogeyman one more time before we cut backstage to see
Randy Orton & Mark Henry
seated in a locker-room together. Orton looks set for action, wearing his ring gear, along with the Affliction top he was wearing earlier, while Henry cracks his knuckles and stretches his neck.
Randy Orton:
Right, so lets go through this one more time ... tonight we
Batista, and show Dave that he shouldnt mess with either of us. Is that right?
Mark Henry:
Right ... tonight ... tonights all about makin a statement ...
Randy Orton:
Exactly, so I was thinkin ...
Mark Henry:
... Which is exactly what Im gonna do when I pin his shoulders down to the mat for the one ... two ... three.
Randy Orton:
Whoa, whoa ... when you pin him? We hadnt discussed
at all.
Mark Henry:
Well you agreed that tonights about makin a statement, and thats exactly what
gonna do since
title shot next week.
Both men now get up and get in one anothers faces.
Randy Orton:
I know
title match next week, but lets not forget
the one whos got the WrestleMania title match, and
the one whos going to be World Heavyweight Champion after WrestleMania, regardless of whos World Heavyweight Champion before then.
Mark Henry:
Are you sayin you think you can beat me?
Randy Orton:
Im saying I
I can beat
Henry continues to look pissed for a moment, before cracking a smile.
Mark Henry:
Youre lucky I dont crush you like a bug right now.
Orton continues to look into the eye of Henry, before backing down and sitting back where he was, leaving Henry to smile as we head off to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to now see
sitting in his locker-room in his wrestling gear, World Heavyweight Title by his side on the bench. Batista looks to be struggling with his bootlaces, slowly tying them up, when suddenly we see a pair of shiny blue tights move in next to Batista. Batista looks up (and the camera pans back) to see
Rey Mysterio
! The crowd pops big as a smile comes across the face of Batista, possibly fir the first time since last Sunday.
Rey! How are you, man?
Rey Mysterio:
How am I? How are
, Dave? You looked a little shaken up out there earlier tonight.
Maybe a little, but Im past all that, because next week, Ive got what I wanted. And I know what youre thinkin, Rey. Youre thinkin that Ive gotta get myself focussed on tonight, but believe me, I am. I am more focussed than ever, because tonight, I get to give Mark Henry a
of the pain that hes gonna suffer next week.
Rey Mysterio:
Im glad to hear it, man ... but, about tonight. Now, I know youre not gonna want to admit it, but Dave, youre hurtin ...
Nah, Im fine ...
Rey Mysterio:
Dave, these people know youre hurtin, Teddy Long knows youre hurtin, I know youre hurtin, and most important, Mark Henry knows youre hurtin.
Hang on ... whats Mark Henry gotta do with this?
Rey Mysterio:
Im jus sayin, that odds are man, Orton, an especially, theyre gonna go out there are target you, theyre gonna try to soften you up, so if you want me to take the brunt of the work ...
Rey, trust me, I got this. Tonight, when we go out there, its not gonna be about
, and its not gonna be about
... its gonna be about
, okay man? Were in this together.
The two look at each other, then engage in a manhug, sharing a bit of bromance.
Rey Mysterio:
Aright, man. Ill see out there later tonight.
You know it.
Mysterio now leaves the locker-room, leaving Batista to smile and continue to tie his laces as we cut away to ringside to hear the sound of the bell ringing.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is for the Cruiserweight Championship of the world!
The crowd gives a reasonably lukewarm reaction as
Jamie Noble
walks out onto the stage and down the ramp, looking all business with a big opportunity in front of him. The Pitbull pays no attention to the fans still as he climbs up into the ring, not even bothering to pose to them, rather deciding to bounce up and down on the spot.
Michael Cole:
Last Sunday night at the Royal Rumble, Kid Kash somehow managed to survive facing all of the cruiserweights in one match and retain his Cruiserweight Championship. SmackDown! General Manager Teddy Long was seemingly not satisfied with that result following Kashs repulsive attack on Juventud a few weeks before the Rumble, so here we have yet another title match before us tonight.
And what a match its gonna be too. Jamie Noble, this kids one tough son of a gun, and if anyone gonna match aggression with Kid Kash, its gonna be Jamie Noble.
Tony Chimel:
Introducing first the challenger, from Hanover, West Virginia, weighing 202 lbs, Jamie Noble!
The crowd give some very respectable heat as the current king of the cruiserweight division, the
Cruiserweight Champion, Kid Kash
makes his way out, arrogantly holding his hands up, title slung over his shoulder. Despite having his second title defence in just five days, Kash looks as arrogant and casual as ever as he makes his way down the ramp and climbs up into the ring, parading around with his title.
Michael Cole:
You would think that having to defend his title yet again, Kid Kash would be taking things a little more serious, but Kash looks cockier than ever right now.
And he may come to regret that. He aint in there with an easybeat. Thats Jamie Noble on the other side of the ring.
Tony Chimel:
And his opponent, from Johnson City, Tennessee, weighing 202 lbs, he is the Cruiserweight Champion, Kid Kash!
Match Four
Cruiserweight Championship
Singles Match:
Jamie Noble
Cruiserweight Champion
Kid Kash
Despite this obviously being a very important match, Kid Kash continues to show his signature arrogance at the very beginning of this match, chewing his gum obnoxiously in Jamie Nobles face ... BUT NOBLE SLAPS HIM, SENDING THE GUM FLYING! Kash looks shocked, only for Noble to reaffirm his seriousness by suddenly hammering away on Kash with a series of rights. Noble is able to keep this aggression up for a short time, before Kash wisely takes advantage by playing possum in the corner, allowing Noble to charge in at him aggressively, only for Kash to stick his boot right up into the jaw of Noble. Kash then quickly follows up by heading up to the top rope and coming off with a missile dropkick that hits Noble on the button, sending him down. From here it looks like smooth sailing for the Cruiserweight Champion, who, despite a mini resurgence from Noble after Kash played it up to the crowd, is able to keep control of the match. This leads Kash to believe he has Noble finished, as he goes for the Dead Level ... but Noble slips out and lands behind Kash, then pushes him off to the ropes and nails him with a single leg dropkick, sending both men down.
Both men rise back to their feet, and its Noble who wins the fist exchange, throwing some heavy right hands, before whipping him off to the ropes, then meeting him with a hard reverse elbow on the rebound. Kash gets back to his feet holding his jaw, though hes soon taken back down as Noble hits a clothesline. Kash again rushes back to his feet, with Noble able to push him back against the ropes, then try to send him off to the opposite ropes, only for Kash to reverse ... and Noble comes back and sends Kash flipping over with a headscissors takedown for a two count. Showing his tenacity, Noble immediately nails a headbutt on the rising Kash, dazing him, before scoring with a few big rights and Irish whipping the champ off into the corner. Not looking to give Kash any time to recover, Noble charges in after him ... and hits a corner clothesline! Noble backs away, leaving Kash to fall into a seated position ... BEFORE CHARGING IN AND HITTING A KICK RIGHT TO THE FACE OF KASH! The crowd are popping big as Noble pulls Kash out of the corner, thinking he has it done ... BUT KASH KICKS OUT AT TWO! Noble looks slightly frustrated, glancing at the referee for a moment, before getting back up and signalling that the match is as good as done.
Slowly, Kash gets back to his feet ... AND NOBLE SCOOPS KASH UP ONTO HIS SHOULDER IN A FIREMANS CARRY ... BUT KASH SLIPS OUT AND HITS A BIG NECKBREAKER! Getting back up, Kash looks at Noble down, before charging across to the corner ... DOUBLE JUMP MOONSAULT! The crowd boo as Kash smiles, not yet covering Noble, instead waiting on him to start to get up ... KICK TO THE TEMPLE ... DEAD LEVEL! Kash makes the cover on the lifeless Noble and gains the three count, retaining his title.
(and still C
ruiserweight Champion
: Kid Kash
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, and still Cruiserweight Champion, Kid Kash!
The crowd boos as Kid Kash gets back to his feet and is handed his Cruiserweight Title, which he raises in the air in jubilation.
Michael Cole:
Jamie Noble put up a good folk, but partner, Kid Kash proved just why he is the top cruiserweight here on Friday nights, at least with Juventud still out of commission.
Thats right. Like him or hate him, you cant deny that Kash is one of the greatest cruiserweights weve ever seen here on Friday nights.
We see Kash looking up into a camera (which is up on the apron) and holding his Cruiserweight Title up, yelling Is that all yave got, Teddy? before smiling. From that, we now cut away backstage to see
Brent Albright & Jillian Hall
quickly packing their bags in the locker-room of The Cabinet, possibly looking to escape from the arena and as such, the clutches of The Boogeyman. The two grab their stuff and look set to leave, heading for the door ... where they see
John Bradshaw Layfield
John Bradshaw Layfield:
What in
the hell
do you think the two of you are doin?
Brent Albright:
We were just leavin.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
What do ya mean youre leaving? Are you tryin to make me look bad? Huh? Is that what youre tryin to do?
Brent Albright:
No, but ...
John Bradshaw Layfield:
There aint no buts about it. You listen to me, son, because everything you do, everything you say, as your leader ... as your
it affects me. You do somethin good, then great, I look good. However, if you do somethin bad, like runnin from The Boogeyman, then
look bad, and I dont like lookin bad. Did you ever see me runnin from The Boogeyman?
Brent Albright:
Didnt you hire me cause you didnt wanna deal with The Boogeyman?
John Bradshaw Layfield:
What did you just say? Are you sayin I ran away from The Boogeyman? Are you sayin that Im scared of The Boogeyman? I am scared of
, freak or not.
JBL breathes heavily, obviously pissed.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Just you watch ... Im about to show you how to make an impact.
JBL smiles sadistically, then turns on his heal and leaves the room, leaving us to head off to a break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to see a vignette, which is accompanied by the sound of This Fire Burns by Killswitch Engage. We see images of a mystery man performing some of his in-ring moves (running knee/bulldog combo, urange/anaconda vise combo and the GTS, along with some big kicks).
Its time for a new breed of wrestler.
The moves continue.
A breed of competitors. A breed that realises that things like luck, are for losers.
We now cut away to see a close-up of the mans arms, which are covered by tattoos.
A breed of competitor which understands just what wrestling is all about.
The left bicep is featured.
I dont drink.
The right bicep.
I dont smoke.
The man is now shown holding up his knuckles, which spell out the words DRUG FREE.
And I dont do drugs.
His stomach is now shown.
Im straight edge, and my only addiction ... is competition.
The mans face is now shown, where we now get a close-up on his long, black hair, and a confident smile, with a snakebite piercing his lip.
My name is CM Punk ... and I am coming to Friday Night SmackDown!.
We then see the words CM Punk above what looks to be an animated Pepsi logo, before the video ends.
Were now at ringside, where we hear ...
The crowd gives decent heat as
walks out, ready for his battle with The Deadman, shillelagh in hand. The all business Irishman swiftly makes his way down to the ring, before waiting in it for his foe, still holding his shillelagh up.
Michael Cole:
An exciting young superstar coming to Friday Night SmackDown! in CM Punk, but ladies and gentlemen, what were about to witness isnt about youth. It is about the return of The Deadman, as The Undertaker makes his first appearance in a SmackDown! ring for the year 2006.
And Finlay looks ready. We heard him earlier when he told Taker hed bring the fight, and Im inclined to believe Finlay. Hes one tough S.O.B, so if anyones gonna bring the fight to Taker, its Finlay.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Belfast, Northern Ireland, weighing 225 lbs, Finlay!
The crowd reacts with a pop that can only be described as massive from the moment the music begins. Soon enough the cheers only grow louder as
The Undertaker
walks out onto the stage in his classic attire, surrounded by smoke. The Deadman slowly makes his way down to the ring, looking right at Finlay as he does so, before climbing up the steps and into the ring, removing his hat and jacket he does so.
Michael Cole:
This man, this Deadman The Undertaker last Sunday night made it to the final four of the Royal Rumble, and tonight he makes his bone-chilling return to the SmackDown! ring, competing for the first time on Friday nights since 2005.
And from the moment that gong is heard, you can just feel the presence of The Deadman. Theres nothin like it man ... freaky.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, from Death Valley, weighing 295 lbs, The Undertaker!
Match Five
Singles Match:
The Undertaker
The crowd is right into this match as they rally behind their hero, The Undertaker right from the get-go. Taker doesnt let them down in the early moments as Finlay at first tries to evade Taker, before instead going at him with a big right when cornered, showing hes ready to fight, only for Taker to overwhelm Finlay with a flurry of rights, much to the excitement of Michael Cole at ringside. Taker keeps the control going for a brief period, even hitting one of his bigger moves in old school, before Finlay finally gets back by ducking under a big boot attempt when against the ropes, leaving Taker to be hung up on the top rope. Finlay climbs out to the apron and nails Taker with a headbutt, before pulling the cover of the apron out and dragging The Phenom down into it, leaving him in a defenceless position. From there, The Fighting Irishman just out and out assaults The Deadman, throwing fists, kicks and knees his way until the referee finally intervenes. Finlay isnt done using the outside environment to his advantage though, as he then pulls Taker out and whips him into the steel steps with a thud, asserting his ascendency.
Finlay continues to stay on top of The Undertaker for a short while longer, showing that hes not scared of The Undertaker by hammering away in classic Finlay fashion. A scare for the Irishman comes when Taker starts to get up through the kicks to the midsection and grabs Finlay by the throat, only for Finlay to hammer away at the head of Taker with some rights, stunning him, prompting Finlay to think hes weathered the storm as he runs off to the ropes ... then gets taken down with a big boot! Despite sending Finlay down, Taker is unable to capitalise, as he instead staggers over to the ropes and leans on them to try to regather himself. Slowly but surely, Taker is able to recuperate, meeting a recovered and charging Finlay with a quick series of right hands, sending the Irishman reeling. Taker then hits a big uppercut, sending Finlay all of the way back against the ropes, before trying to send him off with an Irish whip, only for the Irishman to reverse. Taker springs back, ducking a clothesline from Finlay, before bouncing off the opposite ropes and nailing his foe with a flying clothesline! Finlay gets back up, immediately receiving a kick to the midsection, before whipping into the corner and then squashed with a corner clothesline! Taker is far from done as he whips Finlay across the ring, then repeats the dose, squashing Finlay again and scooping him up and nailing the snake eyes/running big boot combo for a two count. Immediately looking to follow up, The Phenom gets back to his feet and raises his hand into the air, signalling for the Chokeslam. Finlay, unaware of his possible impending doom, takes his time in getting up, giving his back to Taker, before turning ... AND BEING GRABBED BY THE THROAT ... BUT FINLAY QUICKLY FIGHTS BACK WITH A BARRAGE OF KICKS ... THEN NAILS AN INERTED SAMOAN DROP FOR A TWO COUNT!
Finlay gets up and shakes the cobwebs clear, before refocussing back on Taker, and kicking away at him as he gets up, sending him back into the ropes. Finlay then looks to follow up by charging off to the opposite ropes and sprinting back across the ring ... BUT TAKER TURNS AND CATCHES FINLAY BY THE THROAT ... CHOKESLAM! Taker has Finlay down, as he now calls for the end ...
Winner: The Undertaker
JBL, despite being in a suit for the most part, obviously isnt done, immediately beginning to stomp away on Taker for impact. While Finlay is gone from the ring, the referee isnt as he begs JBL to leave, but JBL will have none of it, instead lambasting the referee with threats, causing him to leave JBL alone as he now pulls Taker up ... short arm clothesline! JBL has The Undertaker down at his peril, taking the opportunity to undo his cuffs and then mount Taker, laying into him with a vicious sequence of right hands, taking almost all of his rage out on The Deadman, before getting back up and rolling his sleeves up. JBL clearly isnt done as he waits on Taker, telling him, daring him to get up, which Taker ever so slowly does ...
The crowd serenades The Wrestling God with heat as he looks down at the fallen Deadman, before rolling out of the ring, seemingly content with the damage he has caused ...
... But then we hear the sound of steel clashing together ...
The crowd continues to rain heat down upon JBL as he again waits for The Undertaker to get up, which he slowly does ...
JBL now throws the steel chair down and smiles a sinister smile ... as both JBL and us, the viewers, see
gushing from the forehead of The Undertaker. The smile remains on JBLs face as he drops to his knees and grabs Taker by the head, rubbing his hand on the forehead of The Undertaker
literally putting the blood of The Undertaker on his hands, as well as his expensive blue shirt which he wipes it on!
Michael Cole:
Sick ... absolutely ... sick.
We see JBL for awhile longer, still smiling away, before cutting to see a graphic hyping our main event and heading off to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to hear ...
The crowd lets off a lot of heat as
Mark Henry
walks out onto the stage, looking as intense and aggressive as always. The Worlds Strongest Man doesnt waste time pandering to the fans, instead walking down the ramp quickly (for him) and climbing up into the ring, where he beats his chest and lets out a primal scream.
Michael Cole:
Next week on SmackDown!, this man, The Worlds Strongest Man Mark Henry will face Batista in a rematch from their Royal Rumble encounter just five nights ago. With Batista already hurting, is this an opportunity, partner, for Henry to further weaken Batista down before their big match next week?
Thats exactly what it is, and you better believe Henry knows it. Mark Henry may be a beast, but hes also a smart wrestler, and you better believe that hes thinking about weakening Batista for next week.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is a tag team match, and it is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Silsbee, Texas, weighing 400 lbs, The Worlds Strongest Man, Mark Henry!
The heat continues as the narcissistic Legend Killer
Randy Orton
walks out onto the top of the ramp and poses in his classic pose as pyro falls from the top of the SmackDown! dome. Once the pyro stops Orton then arrogantly walks down the ramp, raising his arm into the air and pointing to the heavens as he does so before climbing into the ring and posing on the turnbuckle.
Michael Cole:
Randy Orton is another man who now has a guaranteed title shot, following his victory in the Royal Rumble Match last Sunday night. While Orton & Henry will look to work together tonight, who knows, they could possibly be clashing at WrestleMania 22.
Orton & Henry may have a had a lil disagreement earlier, but these two are two of the top stars here on Friday Night SmackDown!. So what if they could be enemies later? They know they have to work together tonight, and thats exactly what theyre gonna do.
Tony Chimel:
His partner, from St Louis, Missouri, weighing 245 lbs, The Legend Killer Randy Orton!
The crowd pops big time as
Rey Mysterio
jumps up from the stage with pyro shooting from under him. Rey enthusiastically walks down the ramp, slapping hands with the fans and embracing the kids who bought his merchandise, before waiting at the foot of the ramp for his partner, knowing better than to get in the ring alone with Orton & Henry.
Michael Cole:
This man Rey Mysterio doesnt have as much riding on this match as the other men involved, but youd be a fool to think that Mysterio doesnt want to prove he can go at this level, especially after what he heard from Mr. Kennedy last Friday night.
Thats right, Cole. Mysterios full of heart, and hes always gonna try to perform at the best level he can, which means hes gonna wanna mix it up with the big boys.
Tony Chimel:
Their opponents, first, from San Diego, California, weighing 175 lbs, Rey Mysterio!
The crowd explodes with a very nice pop as the
World Heavyweight Champion, Batista
makes his way out to the top of the stage. Batista looks in higher spirits now, playing it up to the crowd, although he cant hide that hes injured, as shown by his ribs being taped up. After yelling out to the fans for a short time The Animal sets off his pyro and advances down the ramp, joining his friend and partner, Rey Mysterio, before sliding into the ring and posing with him.
Michael Cole:
Ladies and gentlemen, make no mistake about it; what you are looking at right there is a wounded animal. Batista is as tough as they come, but for him to have his ribs taped up just shows how much damage Henry has down on his physically. Earlier we saw signs that he may just have done damage mentally too, so can Batista overcome this huge obstacle that is Henry not just next week, but first, tonight?
If I were Batista, the last place Id wanna be here tonight was in a match with Mark Henry. I mean, look at him, Cole. Hes obviously hurtin, so to answer your question, I dont know whether Batista can get through Henry tonight, but if he does, hes just gonna have to meet him again next week, and thats bad news for the champ.
Tony Chimel:
His partner, from Washington D.C, weighing 295 lbs, he is the World Heavyweight Champion, Batista!
Main Event
Tag Team Match:
Mark Henry
Randy Orton
Rey Mysterio
World Heavyweight Champion
As Batista told Rey in their conversation earlier, he wasnt ducking anyone, which is exactly what we saw when he elected to star the match against Randy Orton. Despite the injury that Orton instantly targets, starting the match with a kick to the midsection, Batista is able to fight back and take control of Orton, tagging in and out a few times with Mysterio to keep fresh. However, Orton is able to make a tag when Batista scoops him out, with The Legend Killer raking the eyes of The Animal and sliding away to tag in Mark Henry, which actually gains a pop from the crowd who wish to see the two rivals face off. Batista is able to initially keep up with Henry, although The Worlds Strongest Man takes control back as he forces Batista into the corner and starts to hit some big shoulder thrusts, driving his massive shoulders into the injured ribs of the champ. Henry, however, gets greedy, walking back before charging in for a corner spear, only for Batista to sidestep him, leaving Henry to crash into the ringpost, thus allowing Batista to go make a tag. With Henry pulling himself out of the corner, Mysterio charges, nailing The Worlds Strongest Man with some kicks to the hamstring, trying to chop the bigger man down to size. With Henry then doubled over, Mysterio backs off the ropes and nails a dropkick to the side of the head, sending Henry staggering to the ropes, where Randy Orton tags himself in.
Orton and Mysterio actually have a nice exchange for awhile, with Mysterio getting the upper hand, before tagging in Batista, who despite being injured, demands to be allowed to compete. Although Batista hangs for Orton with a moment, the ploy to get involved in the match backfires, as Orton kicks him in the ribs, then starts to lay the shots into his rib section in the corner, doing enough damage to the injured Batista to take a clear ascendancy. Henry & Orton are then able to dominate the World Heavyweight Champion, exploiting the injured ribs of The Animal to keep him sedated, with a comeback looking nigh impossible. However, Batista is finally able to make a comeback when Orton reverts to his usual sleeper hold (although with a bodyscissors to apply pressure to the ribs), with The Animal fighting through the pain and getting back to his feet, before hammering away with Orton on rights, only for Orton to score with a knee lift to the ribs of Tista, halting any and all momentum he had right then and there. Orton & Henry then tag in and out a few more times, before Batista once again begins to make a comeback, this time against the man who will be challenging him for his gold next week in Mark Henry, as, after Henry taunts the crowd, Batista starts to fire off some rights, proving the crowd with some hope, only for Henry to, much like Orton previously did, lift his knee. Henry, however, looks to follow up, backing into the ropes and coming forth at the doubled over Animal ... ONLY FOR BATISTA TO EXPLODE OUT OF THE BLOCKS WITH A SPEAR!
Both men slowly but surely make their ways to their respective corners, looking to make the tag to their partners ... and both do it! Henry is the first to make the tag, allowing Orton to charge across the ring as Mysterio is tagged in ... though Mysterio springboards up into the ring, landing behind Orton! Mysterio then dashes into the ropes and bounces off them, ducking under a wild elbow on the rebound to then bounce back off the ropes he springboarded in from in the first place ... before nailing Orton with a headscissors takedown! Mysterio is full of energy as he gets right back up and runs off to the ropes, before jumping up to the second rope ... and coming back with a crossbody block for a two count! Both men get right back to their feet, with Mysterio immediately kicking Orton in the hamstring, causing him to double over, before running off to the ropes and going for a sunset flip ... but both men roll through ... AND MYSTERIO KICKS ORTON SQUARE IN THE SIDE OF THE HEAD! The crowd explodes as Mysterio falls across Orton and hooks his leg ... but Mark Henry breaks the count up at two! With Batista still out of commission, Henry gets back to his feet and picks Mysterio up, hitting him with some clubbing rights as he does so, before sending Mysterio off with an Irish whip, only for Rey to hold onto the ropes instead of bounce back.
Henry, being the amazingly aggressive superstar that he is, decides then to charge at Mysterio ... but Mysterio low bridges the top rope and sends Henry falling out to the floor! Henry hits the floor with a splat, but he doesnt look to stay down long, rushing back to his feet ... ONLY FOR REY MYSTERIO TO RUN UP THE APRON AND JUMP DOWN ONTO HENRY WITH A SEATED SENTON, TAKING HIM DOWN ON THE FLOOR! Mysterio is full of energy as he climbs back onto the apron, waiting for Orton to get up, before springboarding in over the top of Orton once again and bouncing off the ropes, looking for the wheelbarrow bulldog on the rebound ... BUT ORTON SENDS MYSTERIO BACK DOWN TO HIS FEET AND GRABS HIM AROUND THE NECK ... INVERTED BACKBREAKER! Orton slowly gets back to his feet, clearly still reeling following the onslaught from Mysterio, before dropping back down behind Mysterio, waiting for him ... stalking him. Mysterio, unaware of Ortons presence behind him, slowly starts to fight back up to his feet, before turning ... ORTON HITS THE ... NO, MYSTERIO PUSHES ORTON AWAY ... RIGHT INTO A CLOTHESLINE FROM BATISTA! Batista roars as he gets back to his feet, going towards the ropes to play to the crowd ... only for his leg to be grabbed as Mark Henry trips him up and pulls him from the ring!
The two enemies begin to fight at ringside, leaving Mysterio and Orton in the ring, with the roles now reversed as Mysterio stalks a rising Orton ... before dropkicking him in the back and sending him down throat first across the second rope! The crowd pops big for this, with Mysterio instantly reacting, running off to the ropes ... 619 ... CONNECTS! MYSTERIO SENDS ORTON TUMBLING BACK INTO THE CENTRE OF THE RING! Mysterio now waits for Orton to rise ... but at ringside we hear a thud ... AS MARK HENRY HAS IRISH WHIPPED BATISTA RIB FIRST INTO THE STEEL STEPS! The referee is distracted by this, telling Henry to cut it out at ringside ... BUT MYSTERIO STILL SPRINGBOARDS UP ONTO THE SECOND ROPE ... ONLY TO BE SENT TUMBLING OFF IT ...
The referee has no idea what has happened, turning to see two pained men getting back to their feet in the ring ... AND ORTON INSTANTLY STRIKES WITH THE RKO OUT OF NOWHERE! The crowd give heat as Orton hooks the leg ... and gets the three.
Winners: Mark Henry
Randy Orton
Tony Chimel:
Here are your winners, Mark Henry & Randy Orton!
Orton gets back to his feet, still holding his jaw from the effects of the 619, before having his hand raised by the referee. Mark Henry meanwhile remains at ringside, laughing at the pain of Batista, while Mr. Kennedy backs up the ramp, smiling to himself.
Michael Cole:
We just saw a top quality main event ruined by Ken Kennedy, and for what? Because Rey Mysterio showed him up last week after Kennedy insulted Rey? This is unbelievable.
First of all, Cole, its
Kennedy, and secondly, yeah, Mr. Kennedy did cost Mysterio this match, but just like Mark Henry did last Sunday night, Kennedy has made an impact. He has made a name for himself here tonight.
Michael Cole:
And he has to use Mysterio to do that? Kennedy needs to make a name for himself, not at the expense of Rey Mysterio. Regardless, ladies and gentlemen, next week, we get the rematch, Mark Henry vs. Batista for the second time, World Heavyweight Championship on the line! We saw a preview tonight, so what will we see next week? Good night from Orlando, Florida.
We see Kennedy smiling at the top of the ramp, as we now fade to black ...
February 19th, 2006 | 1st Mariner Arena; Baltimore, Maryland
This ... is not meth...
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Chicago
Posts: 5,843
Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
Smackdown! Feedback
Glad that we saw Batista come out to start the night, because his win against Mark Henry by DQ at the Rumble was the biggest thing for SD!, aside from Orton winning the whole thing. But Mark doesnt even get a chance to come out, because Orton does instead! Didnt think that you were gonna have him interrupt Dave, as I thought an appearance on his own toward the end of the show was the way you were gonna go. But anyway, its good to know that he is staying on SD! to challenge for the WHC. Obviously, its going to be Batista-Orton, which I always thought we would have seen in 2006 had Big Dave not injured himself. Ortons part of the promo was good, but nothing special that we havent seen before. Dave coming back with his usual face comments, while still showing that he is pissed off about the whole Henry thing. Teddy Long coming out instead of Henry was disappointing, and while I love that Henry-Batista is taking place next week, I dont like that Batista still wrestles tonight, even with what the doctor said. Doesnt make any difference to me if its a tag team or singles match, still the same chance of getting injured. Anyway, the main event tonight should be good, and I hope Orton continues to roll on SD!.
Glad that MNM look to be getting some legitimate challengers, with a reunion between Hardy and Moore on the horizon. Good match between Mercury and Moore, with Joey trying to cheat to win, with Melina helping him, but Shannon gets the quick victory! Aftermath was expected, as I can see Hardy and Moore being like London and Kendrick, continuing to be a thorn in MNMs side until a tag title match finally happens.
Good little interview from the Irishman, actually as good as you can get from a guy with little mic skills. Glad that his thing with Lashley isnt done, as I see that being blown off at No Way Out, while the match with Taker tonight should be a good un, given the physical nature of both veterans.
JBL thinking that hes getting a title shot? This seems to be a common theme in BTB, but I dont see him getting it. He will do something big at Mania, but it certainly wont be wrestling for the title
Thought that Burchill was going to get more time with Lashley, seeing as how I see him as a guy with a ton of potential. He wrestled a good match, but it still felt too much like a glorified squash, something that neither Burchill or Regal should be doing. Anyway, a good win for Bobby and I see him going back into his program with Finlay after this good win.
Another good interview here, this time with Benoit. Basic stuff, as his rivalry with Booker wont be over until the two of them are both healthy and they face each other for the belt one more time. Hope that match happens soon, but I can see you putting it off until WM, since the match at No Way Out IRL wasnt that great.
Wonder how Benoits gonna pay next week? Facing Jordan, imo.
Knew that Teddy wasnt going to give in to JBL, as its obvious that JBL is going to be doing something else at WM22. Match next week should be good, as I see JBL trying his hardest to make the statement he thinks he needs.
Not much to say about Albright beating Funaki, as I love Brent in his current role, working for JBL is a good way to come in. Easy win for the rookie, but after the match is when the real shit went down. Running from the Boogeyman isnt going to work forever, and I can see Albright eventually facing the weirdo. No Way Out, perhaps?
Lackluster segment between Henry and Orton, as Mark on the mic is always a bad thing, imo. Obviously going to be some tension between the two, and I guess you accomplished that in this promo. Still, a little weak and unnecessary.
Glad to see that Rey is willing to take the beating tonight, but theres no chance that Dave will let him do that. They are both going to get beaten down tonight, and I think that the Animal is being just as foolish as he always is when hes hurt.
A very good match between two of the best CWs on the roster, with Noble getting a huge opportunity against the reigning champion. Good showing from Jamie, as he got a few near falls, but Kash is just too good for the challenger, and he retains once again, showing his dominance over most of the other cruiserweights. Hope to see a new challenger step up pretty soon, as I hope that we get a legendary CW feud heading into WM22, because thats just what SD needs.
JBL gonna make an impact, huh? Think I know where this going
CM Punk OWNS. Please push him the right way.
A very good match between two of the best older guys on Smackdown, as they always know how to put on a good show from the fans. As physical as one would expect, with Finlay holding his own against one of the greatest of all time. But Taker begins to get rolling toward the end of the match, with Finlay looking like hes done but heres JBL! A sickening display by the Wrestling Gawd, as I think we know where his WM goals have shifted to. I should be awesome if you send JBL after Taker at WM and try and have him break the streak, because he is just the heel to build the match to an epic level. This is a feud that I cant wait to see.
Good main event, giving everyone the amount of time that they deserve, with Rey and Batista looking like the much more cohesive team. Batista, despite the injury, was still able to go at 100%, bringing it to Henry and Orton whenever he could. Rey looked like he had the match won for his side, but MR KENNEDY knocks him off! A great ending, with Orton continuing his post-Rumble momentum with a huge win, as I believe that momentum will continue all the way through WM22. Next week should be huge, but I really cant wait to see the fallout between Mysterio and Kennedy, as well as seeing what Orton does next.
Finally starting to review some of your stuff, as youve been pretty generous in reviewing mine. I like what Ive seen in this show, barring a few weak/unnecessary segments. You have me wondering about a ton of possible No Way Out scenarios, but it should be a very good show next week that will provide some preview of where were heading for the PPV.
PatMan Presents: World Wrestling Entertainment 2007
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Victoria, Australia
Posts: 4,403
Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
Smackdown Feedback
I thought maybe we would have opened up with Randy Orton to gloat about his Royal Rumble victory, as I think despite whos champion and whos not, after his victory at the Rumble, hes the hottest thing on this brand at the moment, and it would have been good for him to be handed the spotlight, however Batista is probably the next best option. Batista has never been a killer on the microphone; however I liked how you kept him short and sweet, nothing wrong, and straight to the point, calling out Henry. We get Randy Orton now? It will do, as this promo could provide for some nice Mania hype. I liked Orton talking about nobody taking his spotlight, however from there things went a little down hill as far as Im concerned. Dont get me wrong it was typical Orton, talking about his destiny, and his greatness, not sure about the gospel stuff though, yet I think he went on a little to long about himself, and he ignored Batista for a little to long, which almost made Big Dave seem insignificant. Im glad to here Orton is staying on Smackdown, although Batista/Orton matches have been done many times before, so hopefully you make it a little different. Batista almost seemed like he was trying to be sarcastic and funny when he started speaking again, this being a pure example, Why is that, you ask? Its simple. I look forward ... to kickin, your, ass! In the mood Batista should be in after the shit that went down at the Rumble, plus Orton interrupting him, Id expect a lot more anger from Batista, I really couldnt picture him saying why is that you ask in the mood that hes in. Also, I understand Batista/Henry is probably going to headline No Way Out, but Batista just flat out not caring about Orton when Orton is the one in the ring with him at the moment is another thing I wasnt to sure. Okay, Batista wants Henry, and Batistas in a foul mood, but wouldnt he just kick Ortons ass now to blow off some steam until he can get his hands on Henry? Teddy Long was pretty on song from the get go, and was a nice swerve having him come out to by the way. Anyway, Teddy was good, and Batista/Henry next week gives me hope that the No Way Out card wont have a shit main event. With that being said, Batista only not being able to compete in singles action, but still being able to compete in tag team action is a really weak booking move, imo. You should have had the title match tonight, or not have Batista compete at all, you could have always had Henry/Mysterio be the main event, and have Orton beat some jobber. Despite the error, I think its good that while youre continuing Batista/Henry, Orton is still going to be around the champion.
I actually like the different thing youre trying to do with MNM and Shannon Moore, and of course Matt Hardy. Its something that nobodies done and I think so far youve done a pretty good job with it. This match was a pretty good one, with Moore picking up another one of those upset victories, causing MNM to probably become even more obsessed with embarrassing him. The attack after the match should have went a little longer than one little hit by Nitro tbh, but besides that, a nice little way to advance the obvious, with Matt Hardy making the save for his old buddy. I expect things to really pick up between these four now
Heres the dreaded Finlay interview you were telling me about, and early stages it really didnt seem all that crash hot. I mean, how he could possibly have gotten the best of Lashley, even if he hit him with the shillelagh, when Lashley threw him out of the Rumble. I like that youre acknowledging the fact that Lashley/Finlay business is not over, but the whole Finlay getting the better of Lashley thing was just stupid, tbh. As for the rest of the promo, it wasnt as bad as you made it out to be, I actually didnt mind it, especially the ending about bringing the fight.
I never thought Id say this, but I actually enjoyed a Finlay punch line.
JBL was pretty spot on here, and Id actually prefer to see Batista/JBL at No Way Out, than Batista/Henry so if that could happen, it still wouldnt be ideal, but it would do. As for Brent and Jillian they didnt really say much, and despite Albright not being around for long, I feel as if youre planting the seeds of dissention slowly already, with JBL treating his Cabinet like crap. I know its probably a mile away, but its just something I sensed here.
Despite the good wrestler that Paul Burchill is, he was never going to defeat Bobby Lashley here, Lashley is on a roll, and it continued pretty well here, but I like with Regal not interfering, and Burchill getting some offence in, you didnt completely bitch Burchill out. This way both men look pretty good, job well done, imo.
I didnt really feel the Chris Benoit interview here. At times it was good, talking about not giving up, working hard, mentioning that hes for real, however you also did things that were very un-Benoit like. For example, you had him constantly saying yeah, its tough. Yeah, its whatever Benoit just doesnt do that. Not only that, but at the end you had Benoit refer to himself in the third person and he doesnt ever do that either. Despite these mistakes, I think continuing Booker/Benoit is for the best, as neither man can get involved in anything better at the moment.
I didnt feel as if this Booker T thing was necessary, it felt as if you were just filling space on the show. I guess its good to see that Booker will react to Benoit next week, but still, I dont think this was needed.
Before I get into the main point of the segment, Im interested as to who Teddy was talking about, regarding a contract on the phone. I loved Teddy and JBLs interaction, especially the part where Teddy owned him. It was all pretty good stuff, although I think you also showed that JBL wont be getting near the title. Seriously though, this was probably the best segment of the night so far, I found it really enjoyable.
A nice win for Albright over Funaki, slowly building Albright up. Then you take away his momentum by one, throwing him into the same segment as The Boogeyman, and two, having him retreat from The Boogeyman. Have Albright break his arm next week, otherwise just fuck Boogeyman off, please. Seriously, hes terrible. This is a disgrace to Albright.
I like the dissention between Orton and Henry, made for a good read, although Im sure theyll find a way to co-exist. I liked Henry getting the last word to, as most people would have Orton OWN him, good work.
Rey Msyterio/Batista was okay, with Mysterio being worried, and Tista playing it off, although everybody knows something is wrong with Batista. It got a little to lovey at times, but thats typical Mysterio, so I guess I cant complain.
A Cruiserweight Championship match between Kid Kash and Jamie Noble on a weekly show is simply epic. The match recap probably could have been a little better, but I understand you dont want to get burnt out. Dont get me wrong, I dont mean write up a five star classic, but you probably could have showed off the epicness of both men a little more. Anyway, a nice, strong win for Kash, keeping his little feud with Teddy going, which I really love by the way, meanwhile now I hope Noble doesnt get loat in the shuffle, although I have a feeling he will
JBL, once again treating Albright like crap, which goes with my prediction I made earlier, and once again, I love your characterization of JB, you write him very well. Im interested now to see just what JBLs impact will be.
CM Punk. Soon please
Taker/Finlay was another one of those decent enough contests. Im not the hugest Finlay fan, although it was good to see him not just get dominated like some would make happen, yet with that being said, I think I would have liked Taker to pick up the victory in his return match, and then get attacked by JBL. Anyway, the JBL attack was written pretty well, but hopefully this is just a way for Bradshaw to get noticed. Taker/JBL happened so many times in 04, that Im just plain sick of it.
The main event was very well written, and while you clearly saved your best match recap for the main event, more energy should have went into Kash/Noble tbh. Anyway, a pretty good match, everything seemed to have a purpose, and the ending was very nice with Henry getting the better of Batista, Randy Orton getting the pinfall keeping his momentum going, and Mr Kennedy costing Mysterio the match keeping their things going. Overall, booked everything pretty well in this one.
Overall, this show was decent, definitely not one of your better ones, yet it was nowhere near as bad as you made it out to be. I hope you pick Smackdown up again from here, as youve got a WHC match next week, as well as hopefully an epic promo from Mr Kennedy, plus JBL and Takers reactions to the attack. A lot of good to come, imo, so I cant wait for it.
BkB Hulk
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Behind Blue Eyes
Posts: 12,076
Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
February 6th, 2006 | Preview
Fool Me Once, Shame On You ... Fool Me Twice ...
This week Monday Night RAW invades the home of the old enemy as we hit Atlanta, Georgia, with what is sure to be an exciting show.
Following the events of the Royal Rumble everyone was wondering one thing: who was the mystery attacker of Kurt Angle? Angle walked into Monday Night RAW last week asking himself the same thing, with his first suspicion being the man who for the past month he has constantly been butting heads with in the WWE Champion, Edge. Interrupting Edges victory speech after Edge had defeated John Cena to retain his WWE Title the previous night, Angle cut right to the chase, accusing Edge of being the attacker. Edge, however, vehemently denied these accusations, instead pointing the blame towards the man who Kurt Angle spent most of last year trying to take the WWE Title off, John Cena. Seemingly accepting Edges story of not being in the arena at the time in question, Edge looked to leave, only for Angle to unexpectedly send Edge down with the Angle Slam. Angle wasnt done with just Edge though, as later in the night he made his mark on John Cena too, hitting the former champion with the Angle Slam after he defeated Carlito in the main event. With Angle having seemingly accused both men of assaulting him despite both men denying it, we can be sure to see some unhappy campers on RAW tonight. What can we expect to see from Angle, Cena and Edge on RAW this Monday following the explosive situation that has developed over the past eight days?
Another man who is certainly going to be angry headed into this Monday night is Triple H. After the events of the Royal Rumble eight days ago, Triple H headed into RAW last week thinking of one thing: revenge upon the McMahons. However, after calling the boss and his son out, The Game was disappointed when it was another man who has found himself on the wrong side of Mr. McMahon in Triple Hs old buddy and now enemy, Shawn Michaels. Despite the two obviously not being the best of friends anymore, Shawn warned Triple H, saying he was playing into the hands of the tyrant by calling him out, saying that he knows from personal experience that this is exactly what Vince wants. Despite the continued pleas of Michaels, Triple H ignored them all, once again calling McMahon out, only to get Gregory Helms. Helms cut right to the chase, telling Triple H that Mr. McMahon wasnt in the building, although he did have an announcement for next weeks show thanks to the events of the previous night at the Royal Rumble. Following Helms elimination of Shawn Michaels, Mr. McMahon awarded Helms with a match against anyone of his choosing, so Helms said that he selected to finish the job, meaning this week on RAW it will be Shawn Michaels vs. Gregory Helms. Will the shooting star of Monday Night RAW be able to knock off the veteran, or will The Heartbreak Kid reign supreme? And will Triple H get his hands on the McMahons this week?
The men of Monday Night RAW arent the only ones where things are getting personal, as an old rivalry has continued to blossom on the divas side of things. At the Royal Rumble, Womens Champion Trish Stratus was able to successfully defend her title against long-time rival Victoria in a back and forth match, with the ending coming perhaps thanks to Mickie James, who climbed up onto the apron, only to be inadvertently kicked by Trish Stratus. Despite Trish still picking up the victory, her immediate concern was for Mickie, attempting to tend to her after the match. Last week on RAW she apologised for her inadvertent actions from the previous night, however Mickie blew them off, simply telling Trish that accidents happen. It seems those words will still on the mind of Trish when Victoria, who earlier in the night insisted her problems with Trish Stratus were still existent, attempted to assault Trish, only for Mickie James to run in and make the save. However, after Mickie cleared the ring of Vickie, she was then patted on the back by Stratus, with Mickie perhaps instinctively turning and instantly hitting Trish with a knockout right hand. While no one knows whether what Mickie did last week was intentional or not, what we do know is that the four divas involved in the chaos last week will all be involved again this week as Victoria & Candice team up to take on Mickie James & Trish Stratus. Will James & Stratus be able to team together effectively after the past few weeks, or will Victoria make another statement against Trish?
Another team who may well have problems this week on Monday Night RAW will be the artists formerly known as The Worlds Greatest Tag Team, as they team up for the first time in two years to take on The Redneck Wrecking Crew. While Charlie Haas has been persistent in his plight to bring the band back together, Shelton Benjamin has often resisted, and at times, even looked to genuinely dislike Haas. With all of this going on, will Haas & Benjamin be able to team back together flawlessly, or will The Redneck Wrecking Crew be able to dismantle two men whom they have been having problems with in recent weeks?
Two more men who have a personal problem between them are Rob Van Dam and Carlito. Last week RVD finally made his return to Monday Night RAW after a year long layoff thanks to a knee injury, caused in part by Carlito, when he beat Carlitos running buddy in the ever impressive Chris Masters. Tonight RVD will be in action again, although much like he did last week, Carlito has again avoided facing RVD one on one, as instead it will be Carlito, Chris Masters & Rene Dupree teaming up to take on RVD & V Squared. Will Carlito be able to continue to slither away from Van Dam, or will Van Dam get his hands on Lito tonight?
With all of this, plus appearances from Chavo Guerrero, Intercontinental Champion Ric Flair, World Tag team Champions Kane & Big Show and others, this show is sure to be a big one. To see all of this, plus more, be sure to tune into the USA Network, 9/8 C.
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