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WWE: The Evolution Of Greed
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Re: WWE: The Evolution Of Greed
~Monday Night Raw~
February 5th, 2007
Sioux City, Iowa
~Three Hour Special~
"Fairytales don't come true when I'm involved."
We open with a brief highlights package from last week, focusing on the happenings of the main event, where all three members of Rated-RKO teamed to take on John Cena, Shawn Michaels and Triple H. Tensions run high throughout the match for the 'face' team, with Cena having to forcibly tag 'The Game' into the match, only for Rated-RKO to spend much of the match weakening Trips. The chaotic finish to the match takes up most of the highlights, as Shawn Michaels accidently catches Triple H with sweet chin music, only to then taste an RKO, only for Edge to accidently spear Orton, allowing Cena to his the match winning FU to Kenny Dykstra. Mayhem descends after the bell, with Michaels and Triple H almost coming to blows, while Rated-RKO appears to be falling apart. Shane McMahon then makes his presence felt, with the highlights package ending on his announcement of tonight's main event, Cena defending the WWE Championship against both Triple H and Shawn Michaels.
We now get the usual Raw opening video and then it's into the arena for a massive pyro display, and as the camera pans the arena Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler shout over the fever pitch crowd, everyone in attendance knowing tonight will be a huge night...
Jim Ross:
Welcome everybody to a very special three hour edition of Monday Night Raw! Welcome everyone, to Raw: Night Of Champions! Hello everyone, I'm Jim Ross, alongside me as always is Jerry 'The King' Lawler, and King, there is electricity in the air tonight for what promises to be a monumental episode of Monday Night Raw!
Jerry Lawler:
Oh J.R., you ain't kiddin'! What a night we've got in store. Tonight, John Cena defends the WWE Championship against
Triple H and Shawn Michaels in a triple threat match! Michaels and Triple H looked they wanted to
each other when we went off the air last week, and Cena doesn't even have to be involved in the pinfall to lose his title!
Jim Ross:
It's a situation that has the potential to explode, and it could happen tonight with the WWE Championship on the line! But folks, this
Raw: Night Of Champions, and
title here on Raw is up for grabs. And despite Mr. McMahon's wishes, the ECW Championship
be on the line tonight.
Jerry Lawler:
Yeah well Mr. McMahon may not have been able to stop the ECW Championship match tonight, but Mr. McMahon has stated that tonight is the last ever night the ECW Championship will appear on Monday Night Raw. J.R., tonight, either Bobby Lashley or Rob Van Dam is going to walk away as the last
ECW Champion.
Jim Ross:
Also tonight, Mickie James and Victoria will look to finally settle their long standing rivalry as they battle for the Women's Championship. And, well as absurd as it may sound, Jeff Hardy is scheduled to compete in a rematch for the Intercontinental Championship. Jeff of course suffered a severe concussion at the Royal Rumble, probably isn't even medically cleared to compete here tonight, yet Jonathan Coachman has decided that tonight is the night for Jeff to have his rematch.
Jerry Lawler:
Well we heard from Jeff's brother Matt last Friday night on Smackdown, and Matt vowed that it would be Dykstra versus Hardy tonight. But which Hardy is gonna show up J.R.?
Jim Ross:
Well that's a very good point 'King'. I hope Jeff Hardy's health allows him to compete tonight, but I also don't wanna see the kid do himself serious, permanent damage.
A mostly positive response for the WWE Champion
John Cena
, who looks confident as ever despite his title being on the line tonight. Cena bounds out onto the stage, giving the fans a big salute before he races down to the ring and slides under the bottom rope...
Jim Ross:
Love him or hate him folks, you gotta appreciate the heart and passion
man brings to the ring every night. But tonight, will heart and passion be enough for John Cena to retain the WWE Championship, especially that, as you pointed out 'King', Cnea doesn't have to be pinned to lose his title tonight.
Jerry Lawler:
Well not only that J.R., but think about who he's in the ring with. Shawn Michaels and Triple H, two great former champions in their own rights. I just don't know if Cena can overcome those odds.
In the ring, 'The Champ' asks for and receives a microphone from Lillian Garcia, before waiting for the crowd to quiet before he starts to speak...
John Cena:
Sioux City, Iowa, tonight you guys are in for a
Small pop...
John Cena:
Tonight, live, Raw: Night Of Champions. Every title is on the line, every champion is in action tonight... including yours truly. John Cena, Shawn Michaels, Triple H. A triple threat match for the WWE Championship. It don't get any bigger folks.
Another small pop, but Cena remains serious...
John Cena:
I got a lotta respect for both Triple H and Shawn Michaels. They are icons in this business, future hall of famers... but what is not in either of their futures is
WWE Championship. Not tonight, not any night. You two wanna settle your differences in the ring tonight? I'm fine with that. I got no problem steppin' back and lettin' you two go at it. Heck, maybe I'll pull up a chair next to J.R. and 'King' and watch two of the very best go at it.
A quick shot of J.R. and 'King', both smiling in Cena's direction...
John Cena:
I'm just messin' around here. Tonight, it's gonna be a hell of a fight. I know that tonight, neither Shawn Michaels or Triple H are gonna have settlin' their difference at the front of their minds. Their gonna be focused on the richest prixe in the game, the WWE Championship. If either man gets the chance to take this title away from me, they'll grab it with both hands. But both Shawn Michaels and Triple H better realise one thing...
Cena holds the WWE Championship in his hands, taking a lingering look at it before bursting to life and turning to the crowd...
John Cena:
That THE CHAMP... IS... HERRRRRRREE!!
Solid pop...
John Cena:
The champ is here and I ain't gonna stand aside for nobody! If it all goes down between Michaels and Triple H, I'll be the one who ends it for both of 'em. This ain't about the problems those two are havin', tonight is about the WWE Championship, and when my title gets involved, nothin' gets in my way of holdin' on to it.
Another decent pop, with Cena nodding for the fans response before narrowing his eyes as he stares into the hard camera...
John Cena:
But now I wanna talk about somethin' that happened last week. I wanna say a few words about a certain Shane McMahon.
Boos from the crowd, at which Cena can only smile...
John Cena:
Shane, last week you tried to play games with me and the WWE Championship. You put me in a six man tag team match with two guys that have done nothin' but get in each other's faces the last few weeks, and then you offer my opponents a shot at me tonight if they could get the job done. You warned me against one of my partners stabbin' me in the back, you said I was in an impossible situation. And then after I get the job done, after I get the win for my team, you turn around and put me up against both Michaels and Triple H tonight.
Cena removes his hat, runs a hand through his hair and then stares deep into the hard camera...
John Cena:
Well Shane, I got new for ya'. If you got a problem with me 'cause of what I did to your old man... then why don't me and you settle it man to man, in
ring TONIGHT!
John Cena:
I know I'm busy tonight, I got a
match to go ready for, but I don't mind pullin' double duty to settle things with you Shane.
Another pop...
John Cena:
So Shane O'Mac... if you want some... COME GET SOME!
Cena defiantly slams his mic to the mat, before taking off his t-shirt and throwing it into the crowd. Cena snaps himself against the ropes a few times before looking up the ramp and shouting "C'mon!"...
Jerry Lawler:
J.R., did John Cena really just call out Shane McMahon?
Jim Ross:
That's certainly what it sounded like, but I'm not sure that's all that smart a move for the WWE Champion to be makin' right now.
Jerry Lawler:
Not smart? Is he crazy? You never pick a fight with a McMahon J.R., it never ends in your favour.
Cena continues to pace the ring... until...
It's not Shane McMahon. Instead it's
Jonathan Coachman
stepping out from the back, to a bunch of heat from the crowd. 'Coach' begins to slowly walk down the ramp... until he stops, shaking his head. Cena looks disgusted that it's Coachman and not Shane that's making his way down to the ring, but 'The Champ' seems content that at least he'll get his hands on one of the men who have been a thorn in his side lately. Coach throws a few trash words at Cena, and a smirk soon crosses his face, as when 'Coach' starts waving towards the entrance way, the charade is revealed as a squad of secutiry guards follow him down to the ring...
Jim Ross:
I shoulda known Jonathan Coachman would never walk into the ring with John Cena alone. It seems that'Coach' has answered the call from Cena, but he's bringing company with him.
Jerry Lawler:
I told you so. Bad things happen when you call out a McMahon. 'The Coach' is about to teach John Cena a lesson on behalf of Vince and Shane.
'Coach' and the troops all head into the ring, where around 8 security guards form a barrier between Cena and Coachman. Mic already in his hand, 'Coach' positions himself across from Cena ready to berate him behind the safety of his hired goons...
Jonathan Coachman:
Well, well... John Cena. Y'konw, if I was you Cena, as horrible as that thought may be, if was you Cena, I'd really,
watch my mouth when it comes to talkin' about the McMahons. Be very careful what you wish for Mr. Cena, 'cause you just might get
Feeling invincible due to the security team, 'Coach' arrogantly points at Cena as he speaks, the WWE champion keeping his compusure thus far...
Jonathan Coachman:
You got a real attitude problem Cena. You don't have any respect for authority. Hell, you barely have any respect for yourself what with the cheap-ass clothes you wear.
Cena looks up and down at his 3/4 lenght combats and "Hustle. Loyalty. Respect." t-shirt before shaking his head at 'Coach'...
Jonathan Coachman:
t-shirt you're wearing Cena, it says respect on it. I suggest that if you want to remain WWE Champion for much longer, you better start showing Mr. McMahon and his son Shane some respect. Because if you don't Cena... things could get very uncomfortable here on Monday Night Raw for you.
Feeling his point has been made, 'Coach' smiles as the crowd boos...
Jonathan Coachman:
Now Cena, I have a little message for you, from Mr. McMahon. Two weeks ago, you put your hands on Vincent Kennedy McMahon. And that Cena... that was a huge mistake. And last week... you got in Shane McMahon's face. And that was an even bigger mistake. Now, Mr. McMahon is back after his vacation last week, and he wants you to know somethin' Cena. He wants you to know that-
John Cena:
Hold on a second there 'Coach'. I got somthin' I wanna say first. I just wanna let you to know, that I don't give a damn what Vince McMahon thinks.
'Coach' is stunned, shouting "You can't say that!" as the crowd cheers...
John Cena:
Vince, I ain't talkin' to the paid help tonight. I know you're back there, and I know you can hear me. Vinny Mac, 'Coach' came out here and he talked about respect. In my book, respect is earned. You don't demand anythin' off of me Vince, especially not respect! Same goes for Shane, and the same goes to you too 'Coach'.
John Cena:
But I said two weeks ago that one of these days I was gonna get you alone in this ring 'Coach' So if you wanna earn a bit of respect right now, you'll step infront of your hired goons and you'll stand across me man to man, and you can help me send a message of my own to the McMahons.
'Coach' adjusts his tie, composing himself before he replies...
Jonathan Coachman:
Listen Cena. I'm gonna give you a lil' advice. Don't mess with Mr. McMahon. Countless superstars over the years tried it... and they all wound up losing. You remember what happened to Bret Hart, dont'cha Cena? You don't want that to happen... to
. If you're not careful Cena... somethin' like that could happen...
Boos as 'Coach' smiles smugly, while Cena runs a hand through his hair...
John Cena:
What is that 'Coach'? Is that some kinda threat? Is Vince gonna try screw me outta the title tonight? Is that what you're sayin'?
Arrogantly 'Coach' shrugs, shouting "Maybe" across the ring...
John Cena:
Well Vinny, if you wanna threaten me, why don't you step out her and do it yourself? Why don't you come out here and bring Shane with ya'? C'mon Vince! I know you're back there, you know where I am.
Cena looks up the ramp... but there's still no sign of either McMahon, much to the ammusement of 'Coach'...
John Cena:
It ain't gonna happen is it?
Cena shakes his head ruefully before looking at Coachman...
John Cena:
He's not gonna come out here is he?
'Coach' laughs as he gleefully shakes his head...
John Cena:
Well... if Vince ain't gonna come out here... and Shane ain't gonna come out here... you'll just have to do.
And with that, Cena explodes through the security line... and gets his hands on 'Coach'! Immediately Coachman makes a run for it, but Cena manages to grab hold of his suit jacket, ripping and clawing at it, only for the security to finally react, dragging Cena to the opposite side of the ring. 'Coach' makes a run for it as the sheer number of guards overwhelm Cena...
Jonathan Coachman:
What the hell do you think you're doin' Cena! You don't put your hands on me! Security... I think it's time you taught Mr. Cena a little lesson in
With Cena held against the ropes by two guards, two other guards step forward, intent on dishing out some punishment... only for Cena to kick out at them, catching one in the face and the other in the gut! The two guards holding Cena's arms are pulled into each other face first, knocking both under the bottom rope. Clotheslines and right hands send guards scurrying from the ring, until there's only one left, namely the guard Cena just kicked in the gut. Stumbling towards him, Cena is ready to strike... with the
The crowd erupts as Cena quickly explodes to his feet, roaring up the ramp at Coachman as security guards scramble to safety...
Jim Ross:
What an explosive way to start Monday Night Raw! John Cena, he's had enough, he wants the McMahons!
Jerry Lawler:
Cena may not have gotten his hands on Jonathan Coachman, but he just sent a message to both Vince and Shane McMahon!
Jim Ross:
And he's not done yet! Cena defends the WWE Championship later tonight, on this special Raw: Night Of Champions!
When we return it's too the surprising sight of former ECW Commentator
Joey Styles
. Styles is dressed in a sharp suit, with a microphone in his hand, suggesting it's time for an interview...
Joey Styles:
Ladies and gentlemen, join me in welcoming my guest at this time, he is the challenger for the ECW Championship... 'Mr. Monday Night'... Rob... Van... Dam!
A good pop greets
Rob Van Dam
as he steps into the frame, shaking hands with Styles as he does, the respect and friendship between the two clear for all to see...
Joey Styles:
Rob, tonight you face the ECW Champion Bobby Lashley for Lashley's title, but for many fans this match takes on even greater significance. You Rob, you represent the ethos of old school ECW, while for many, Bobby Lashley represents a new, corporate image of ECW. With that in mind Rob, what does this match mean for you tonight?
Van Dam smiles and nods his head as he ponders his response...
Rob Van Dam:
Joey, me and you... we go way back. Anybody who was there back in the day, back in the original ECW, knows what the ECW Championship means to me. Any fan who watched us in the original ECW, knows that tonight is a big night for me. You're right dude, tonight's about more than a championship.
Styles nods along, agreeing with every word...
Rob Van Dam:
To Vince McMahon, ECW and its Championship are nothin' more than an inconvenience. Does Lashley feel that way?
Van Dam gives a shrug and a shake of the head...
Rob Van Dam:
I dunno man. I mean, sure he carries the title around with him. He likes the look of it over his shoulder and around his waist. But when was the last time Lashley put that title on the line? When was the last time the ECW Championship was relevant here on Raw? When was the last time the spirit of ECW, the
ECW that I gave my blood for... when was the last time the spirit of that organisation was felt all around the world?
Respectful pop from inside the arena...
Rob Van Dam:
what tonight's all about dude. It's about taking things to the
one last time. I'm talkin' about really showing what old school ECW was all about. And sadly for Bobby Lashley... that dude's gonna find out all about the spirit of ECW first hand tonight.
Rob Van Dam:
And I'm gonna hold that ECW Championship in my arms again... one... last... time. 'Cos I'm Rob... Van... Dam!
Another good pop from the crowd, with RVD giving Styles a pat on the shoulder as he turns to leave.
A few moments silence until...
The crowd buzzes again as the legendary
Ric Flair
steps out, "woooo-ing" his way down the ramp and into the ring...
Jim Ross:
Its time for our first championship match, and what a way to start with none other than the 'Nature Boy' Ric Flair!
Jerry Lawler:
J.R., we say it often enough, he's a sixteen world heavyweight champion, he's been Intercontinental Champion, he's held tag titles... can Ric Flair add yet
piece of gold to his name tonight?
Jim Ross:
I think he's got a great chance. This combination of Flair and Carlito combines the savvy veteran skills of Flair with the exciting action of Carlito. Rated-RKO have seen off all challengers during their reign, but Flair and Carlito could prove to be a huge threat to the champions.
In the ring, Flair removes his blue robe, passing it over the top rope to a stage hand below. Flair then pulls on the top rope and takes a little jog of the ring as...
It's another good response as
emerges from the back, his trademark apple in one hand, the lovely
Torrie Wilson
holding the other. Carlito looks more serious that usual, clearly focused on the job at hand tonight...
Jim Ross:
And this young man Carlito has a great chance to really get his career back on track tonight. It wasn't a great 2006 for the man from the Caribbean Superstar, but in recent weeks, under the tutelage of Ric Flair, Carlito has been more serious and more focused, and it could all pay off tonight.
Jerry Lawler:
Well I talked about the numerous championships Ric Flair's won over the years, Carlito's had his share of gold too. Here's a guy who's been both the Intercontinental
United States Champion. He could become a tag champion for the first time tonight.
'Lito shares a brief hug with Flair, before giving Torrie one last kiss on the cheek as she departs the ring. Carlito removes his t-shirt and throws it into the crowd, before he and Flair share a few last minute words as...
Major heat as
Randy Orton
walk down to the ring with a purpose. A determined looking Orton leads the way, while the 2007 Royal Rumble Winner Edge remains a few steps behind his partner, the tension of last week's altercation as we went off the air obviously still lingering...
Jim Ross:
But for that to happen, Flair and Carlito will have to make it past Edge and Randy Orton, two men who have dominated the tag team division here on Raw in recent months.
Jerry Lawler:
And of course, their greatest claim to fame, it was Edge and Randy Orton who killed D-Generation X, despite how the match went down. But J.R., I wanna ask you, do you think Edge and Orton can be on the same page tonight after what happened last week?
Jim Ross:
I'm sure Edge and Orton, with the titles on the line, can work together just fine. It's not gonna be easy for Flair and Carlito here tonight, I promise you that.
Match 1: World Tag Team Championships Match
World Tag Team Champions
Rated-RKO (Edge and Randy Orton)
Ric Flair
w/ Torrie Wilson
As the bell rings, Carlito is in the ring, ready to go, although in the opposite corner an uneasy exchange between Edge and Orton takes place, with Edge adamant that it be Orton who starts the match for his team. Orton does indeed step forward, but not after taking a long, hard look at Edge before he ties up with Carlito. The match starts at a fast pace as Orton works into a headlock, only to be sent off the ropes, bowling Lito over with a shoulderblock. Orton looks to again come off the ropes, but this time hes sent down by a hiptoss. Kicks drive Orton to the corner, where Flair gets the tag, lighting up Ortons chest with a string of chops to the chest. Flair then looks to target Ortons left arm, with Flair and Lito making plenty of quick tags as they continue to work the arm. Flair is in, wrenching the arm around, only for Orton to grab a handful of hair, pulling himself and Flair into the Rated-RKO corner. Edge makes a tag behind Flairs back, so when the ref calls for the break and Flair unloads with a chop to Ortons chest, he doesnt see Edge sneak in behind him... to drop Flair with an inverted-DDT! 1... 2... Flair rolls the shoulder.
Trapped in the Rated-RKO half of the ring, Edge and Orton quickly go to work on Flairs lower back, with a series of stiff kicks being aimed to the base of the spine. The champions show off their obvious advantage in terms of teaming together as Edge holds Flair in position for Orton to fire a tough forearm to the back, before a clothesline knocks Flair down. The Orton stomp does more damage, before he drags Flair to his feet and fires the veteran to the corner. Flair hits the turnbuckle hard... and staggers straight into a huge back body drop! 1... 2... again Flair rolls the shoulder.
The punishment of Flair continues, as Edge and Orton manage to hold their team together to work well together, wearing Flair down with every blow aimed to the spine. The tags continue as Edge re-enters the ring, looking to hook Flair up for a suplex... inside cradle! 1... 2... Edge barely kicks out. The near fall gives Flair a bunch of energy, as when both men return to their feet, Flair beats Edge to the punch, teeing off with rights and lefts before a big chop knocks Edge down. Flair now begins the walk towards his corner... but Edge grabs the foot! Out of desperation Edge hangs on, with both men now on their feet... enzuigiri! The crowd is stunned as Flair delivers a far from textbook enzuigiri, but it does enough as the veteran crawls to his corner... and tags in Carlito!
Lito slingshots into the ring and starts smacking Edge with right hands, backing Edge to the ropes, allowing Carlito to go for an Irish whip... which Edge reverses... but Lito ducks a clothesline... and keeps running, jumping to the second rope... for a springboard back elbow! Orton is in, but he too runs into a right hand, allowing Carlito to send Orton to the corner... but when Carlito charges, Orton gets the boot up... and hammers Carlito with a clothesline! Regaining the advantage for his team, Orton shakes away a few cobwebs, and the match looks to settle down once again as we fade into commercial.
And when we return, Orton has Lito locked in a chinlock, but Carlito is in the process of struggling back to his feet, connecting on a pair of rights to the gut to free himself before swinging with a big right... but Orton ducks... and drops Lito with the inverted headlock backbreaker. Edge gets the tag, and he instantly locks on a reverses chinlock, transitioning into a bodyscissors with his legs as he looks to keep Lito grounded, keeping the hold locked in for an age and wearing Carlito down. Once more Carlito struggles to break free, but eventually he does make it back up, elbowing his way out of the hold and coming off the ropes... straight into a flapjack! 1... 2... Lito kicks out, but the champs remain in control as Orton comes in, dropping several knee drops to the head before whipping Carlito off the ropes into a perfect snap scoop powerslam, scoring another near fall.
Edge is back in, clubbing Lito with forearms to the neck, before he drags The Caribbean Superstar to the corner, hoisting him up onto the top turnbuckle, his body facing away from the ring. A few more forearms connect before Edge climbs to the second rope, looking for a side suplex from the top rope... but Carlito shifts his weight in mid air... and counters with a crossbody off the top! The crowd pops as both men crash to the mat, and now both men head for the corners... here comes Orton... but here comes Ric Flair! The Nature Boy steps through the ropes just in time to catch the on-rushing Orton with a stinging chop, knocking Orton down only for Flair to fire him off the ropes... back body drop sends Orton up and down! Edge is back up, but he too runs into chops, before Edge swings and misses with a right hand... Flair connects with the atomic drop... and then clotheslines Edge over the top rope to the floor!
Now Orton is alone in the ring, the legal man for his team, but he connects on a hard right hand to Flair... and goes for an
RKO out of nowhere... no!
Flair grabs the top rope, saving himself and seeing Orton crash to the mat. Orton slowly staggers to his feet, turning back towards Flair... and not seeing Carlito attack from behind...
Carlito connects, but its Flair as the legal man who hooks the leg, weve got new champions... 1... 2... NO! Edge drags Flair from the ring! Edge saves the title as he pulls Flair under the bottom rope to the outside, dropping shots to Flair, but here comes Carlito... springboard crossbody takes Edge down!
Now Flair and Carlito return to the ring, looking to double team Orton, but Orton springs to life, catching Carlito as he tries to step through the ropes... with the rope hung DDT! Flair enters the ring via the steps, snapping yet more chops to Ortons chest. Flair then looks to send Orton off the ropes, only for Orton to reverses the Irish whip... but Flair hangs on to the top rope, seeing Orton crash and burn on a dropkick attempt. Quickly, Flair moves in, snatching a foot of the grounded Orton... and twisting into
The arena erupts as Flair locks on his signature submission move, with Orton crying out in agony, straining, scratching and clawing for the ropes... but he cant reach, and it looks like Orton will tap... but Edge flies across the ring with an elbow drop, breaking the hold and saving the titles!
The crowd deflates as Edge saves his partner, now laying in with stomps to the chest before retreating to the corner, crouching, waiting for Flair to rise. Slowly the legend stands back up, but so does Orton, struggling to his feet as he favours his leg. Here comes Edge, making his move...
Flair dives to the side... but Edge puts on the breaks before he hits Orton. Realising they had a narrow escape, Edge sighs with relief, but Orton looks confused, shouting What are you doin? at his partner. Edge protests his innocence, but once again Rated-RKO relations are strained. Orton again shouts, this time You gonna spear me again!? in reference to last week when Edge connected. Edge decides hes heard enough, as when Orton looks to turn back to Flair, Edge spins him around... and FLIPS ORTON THE DOUBLE BIRD...
The crowd is stunned as Edge simply rolls under the bottom rope and walks up the ramp, leaving Orton behind. In the ring, Orton is furious, screaming up the ramp, kicking the bottom rope in frustration, furious that Edge has walked out on him. As this is going on, Carlito has snuck back into the ring... and he drops Orton with the
Edge stops at the top of the ramp and turns to watch, just in time to see Orton get nailed... and in time to see Carlito hook the leg... 1... 2... 3!
Winners: And NEW World Tag Team Champions, Ric Flair and Carlito @ 12.46
The arena goes nuts as Flair and Carlito get this huge night of to a great start. The referee is quick to hand Flair and 'Lito the gold, both men hugging as they raise the titles high in the air.
Jerry Lawler:
They did it J.R.! Ric Flair and Carlito are the new World Tag Team Champions!
Jim Ross:
Congratulations to Flair and Carlito, but have we just seen Rated-RKO implode here? Edge walked out on that match, leaving Orton to fend for himself!
Jerry Lawler:
And I can't imagine that'd made 'The Legend Killer' all that happy.
Torrie is soon in to embrace Carlito, while Orton has by now rolled to the outside, staring up the ramp at where his partner has just departed the scene. In the ring, the celebration continues as Flair "woooo's" to each side of the ring, with 'Lito proudly climbing to the second rope to raise the title high as we fade into commercial.
We return to a backstage corridor to see a furious
Randy Orton
storming through the backstage area, pushing random backstage workers aside as he goes...
Randy Orton:
WHERE IS HE?! Huh?
One worker gets too close to Orton, prompting the former World Tag Team Champion to grab the worker by the collar...
Randy Orton:
YOU! You seen Edge?
The random worker shits a brick, barely mumbling a "no" in response, prompting Orton to toss him aside...
Randy Orton:
EDGE! Where the hell is he?!
Now it's the cameraman who gets too close...
Randy Orton:
Get that damn thing outta my face! EDGE!
Giving Orton plenty of space, the cameraman backs off, allowing us to see Orton head further down the corridor, only for
Kenny Dykstra
to run up to Orton, a concerned look on his face...
Kenny Dykstra:
Hey, hey Randy! Randy, what are ya'-
Randy Orton:
Flustered, Dykstra can only stutter his answer...
Kenny Dykstra:
I-I-I don't know! What the hell happened out there?
Randy Orton:
Edge walked out on me, that's what happened! God... I can't believe this!
An awkward silence breaks out, allowing our cameraman to move in for a close up of both men...
Kenny Dykstra:
Y'know what? Screw Edge. We don't need him.
Slightly confused, Orton stares at Kenny...
Kenny Dykstra:
I mean it, we don't need him. If Edge doesn't wanna team with you, then we ain't helpin' him become WWE Champion at Wrestlemania. Screw 'im! I mean, you're 'The Legend Killer' Randy Orton. I'm the Intercontinental Champion. We don't need Edge. He needs us more than we need him.
Composing himself, Orton nods his head...
Randy Orton:
Yeah... you're right.
Kenny Dykstra:
Alight man. If we see Edge, we'll kick the crap outta him! But if we don't... who cares? He's not better than
Again Orton nods, this time with a smile, clearly pleased at the words of his protégé...
Randy Orton:
I thought I told you to get that damn thing outta my face!
Once again Orton turns his attention to the cameraman, who quickly backs away as Orton and Dykstra walk off. A nearby door then squeaks open, and a head pops out... it's
! Edge gulps hard as he watches Orton and Dykstra leave, obviously having heard every word, before he quickly steps out of what appears to be a storage cupboard, his bag already over his shoulder as he briskly heads for the exit as we fade into a video.
*Video Package*
MARCH 31st, 1996
Two of the finest workers of their generation, Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels compete in the first ever Wrestlemania Iron Man Match, with the man scoring the most falls within the hour being crowned WWF Champion. The two battle for an hour, with stalemate throughout until a dramatic last minute sees Hart finally lock on the sharpshooter. Determined to hang on, Michaels somehow battles the pain, unable to reach the ropes yet still refusing to submit. The clock expires with Michaels still locked in the sharpshooter, leading Hart to believe that since the match ended in a tie, he was still champion. However, then WWF Commissioner Gorilla Monsoon ordered that there would be a period of sudden death overtime, where the first man to score a pinfall would be victorious. Despite the anguish he suffered in the sharpshooter, Michaels hits two sweet chin musics, handing him the victory and his first WWF Championship in the process in one of the greatest matches in Wrestlemania history.
*End Video Package*
We now cut to the arena for...
Week on week the pop grows for
CM Punk
, who steps out, tapping and listening in on the imaginary watch on his wrist before shouting "It's clobberin' time!" and then racing down to the ring...
Jim Ross:
Folks, it's already been an explosive night, and there's still more much to come, like CM Punk in action, when we return live to Raw: Night Of Champions!
We return with Punk already in the ring, his music just dying out, before the attention turns to the top of the ramp as...
Heat as
Johnny Nitro
make their elaborate entrance, complete with photographers and red carpet...
Jim Ross:
Welcome back folks. Here comes a young couple, who for one reason or another, have not had a very successful start to 2007. Both Nitro and Melina have lost their share of matches in recent weeks, leading to a bit of tension between the two last week.
Jerry Lawler:
Right and that tension nearly got worse when Chris Masters, another guy who's not been winning many matches lately, made Nitro an offer for the two of them to form a tag team of their own. Melina was certainly impressed, but I don't think Nitro was.
Jim Ross:
Well I guess all will be forgiven if Nitro can pull of a win here right now...
Match 2:
Johnny Nitro
w/ Melina vs.
CM Punk
From the tie-up a brief exchange of technical wrestling breaks out, as both men counter in and out of side headlock takedowns. Both men are on their feet as Punk works into a hammerlock, only for Nitro to hammer Punk with stiff elbows to the head, then charging off the ropes... Punk dives to the mat, seeing Nitro run across him... and then quickly springs up to connect on a single-leg dropkick, earning Punk an early 2 count. Punk then goes to work with hard kicks to the thigh, but when he goes for an Irish whip to the corner, Nitro springs to the second rope... and fires out with a springboard roundhouse! Nitro smacks Punk on the head, and he quickly hooks the leg... 1... 2... Punk rolls the shoulder.
Sensing he has the advantage, Nitro attacks with a string of uppercuts against the ropes before he goes for an Irish whip... and ducks a right hand... to catch Punk with a STO backbreaker... transitioning into a Russian legsweep. Nitro is quickly back up, only to spin 180 into a legdrop, hooking both legs but still only getting a 2 count. Nitro moves to mount Punk, hammering down with right after right before wrapping both legs around Punks neck, looking to squeeze the breath out of Punk. Nitro wraps his legs tight, every squeeze applying more pressure, leaving Punk unable to break free. Finally Punk flips into a bridging pin, causing Nitro to release the hold as he kicks out at 2.
With both men back on their feet, Punk snaps off two quick fire right hands, blocking a punk from Nitro to connect on yet another right of his own before hitting a right, a left and a back elbow before looking to finish the sequence with a kick to the skull... but Nitro ducks the roundhouse... and tags Punk with a right to the midsection. Nitro then goes for an Irish whip... but Punk reverses... and drops Nitro with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker! 1... 2... again Nitro kicks out, but now its Punk who looks to build momentum, knocking Nitro down with two quick fire clothesline before a massive kick to the side of the skull keeps Nitro grounded.
Punk drags Nitro back up, scoring on short knees to the face before he fires Nitro to the corner... and charges in for the step-up knee to the face... and then explodes out of the corner with the bulldog! Punk has the crowd behind him as hes back on his feet, waiting for Nitro... to nail a double underhook backbreaker! 1... 2... Nitro rolls the shoulder! Melina breathes a sigh of relief, but shes soon interjecting herself in the match as Punk steps through the ropes near her. Punk waits for Nitro to rise, lining up a slingshot clothesline... only for Melina to grab his foot, distracting Punk and allowing Nitro to strike... with an inverted suplex that brings Punk back into the ring face first! Nitro quickly hooks the leg... 1... 2... Punk has a foot on the rope!
The frustration of Nitro spills out as he cries out, but he quickly recomposes himself by dragging Punk to the corner, setting him up as Nitro grabs the top ropes... hoists himself up... split-legged corkscrew moonsault... no! Punk gets his knees up, which sees Nitro drive his midsection into them. Nitro writhes in pain, just long enough for Punk to recover, compose himself and get back on his feet just in time to see Nitro sway towards him... Punk hoists Nitro up onto his shoulders... to hammer him with the Go-To-Sleep! Punk nails the GTS, and he quickly wraps Nitro up... 1... 2... 3!
Winner: CM Punk @ 05.28
Another impressive performance and another victory for CM Punk. The crowd gives a good pop as Punk rises to his feet to have his hand raised, while on the outside Melina is tearing her hair out, incredulous at the fact that Nitro has suffered yet another defeat...
Jerry Lawler:
Aw would look at poor Melina. She looks like she's about to cry. Maybe I should go over there and console her J.R.?
Jim Ross:
You just stay right where you are 'King'. I don't think even your legendary charm can save the day for Melina.
Melina has now joined Nitro in the ring, consoling but at the same time expressing her disgust at the outcome of the match, with the camera switching between the smiling Punk and the furious Melina as we head backstage...
To a pair of divas, this time it's
Kelly Kelly
Candice Michelle
who grace our screen. The two share some inaudible chat, both girls smiling and sharing the occasional laugh...
Candice Michelle:
So uh, what's this I hear about you and CM Punk?
Kelly blushes...
Kelly Kelly:
Well that depends. What did you hear?
Candice Michelle:
I heard that you've got a thing for him and you wanna ask him out.
Again Kelly blushes, more so than before...
Candice Michelle:
I guess that's a yes! He's kinda cute and all, but I dunno about that whole no drinking thing.
Kelly Kelly:
Well, I dunno. I mean, I only broke up with Mike a few weeks ago, and I just got started here on Raw. But... I liked him when we were on ECW together so I guess-
The mood of the room soon darkens though as the shadow of
Mike Knox
is cast over the two. Kelly looks worried at the appearance of her ex-boyfriend, while Candice is unimpressed at the interruption...
Candice Michelle:
Uh... can we help you?
His eyes firmly fixed on Kelly, Knox barely blinks as he responds...
Mike Knox:
Leave... now.
Kelly shuns away from the glare of Knox, while Candice isn't impressed...
Candice Michelle:
Excuse me? You can't just barge in here and talk to me like that.
Still Knox stares a hole through Kelly as he answers...
Mike Knox:
I said leave...
Candice refuses to budge, but Kelly realises it would be better not to piss Knox off...
Kelly Kelly:
It's OK Candice, you can go. I can handle it.
Candice takes a good long stare at Knox, who still hasn't stopped looking at Kelly, before she smiles at Kelly and leaves...
Kelly Kelly:
What do you want Mike? Why won't you just leave me alone?
There is no change in the almost deranged expression on Knox's face...
Mike Knox:
That's no way to talk to your boyfriend Kelly.
Kelly Kelly:
You're not my boyfriend anymore Mike! I dunno how many times I have to say it to you.
Still Knox stares, much to the discomfort of Kelly...
Mike Knox:
When are you gonna realise Kelly that you can say it as many times as you want... but you're
gettin' away from me.
Creepy. Kelly decides that if words won't do it, her actions will...
Kelly Kelly:
Oh really? Well why don't you watch me leave Mike? Then maybe you'll get the message.
Kelly turns to walk away, only for Knox to take a firm grasp of her wrist, causing Kelly to squeal in surprise...
Mike Knox:
You're not goin' anywhere Kelly. You're comin' with me... now.
And with that, much like last week, Knox drags Kelly Kelly off camera. This week however, he does so with greater force, leading to a much heightened look of fear in Kelly's eyes. Kelly struggles, but Knox easily drags her away, Kelly crying for help as she goes but no one seems to be in the vicinity as the cries get quieter... and quieter... until the fade into commercial.
*Video Package*
Quick-cutting shots flash across the screen of two young superstars, the two trading moves across a wrestling ring in a dimly-lit room...
In Canada, wrestling is a tradition...
More shots of the youngsters in action, with it now clear that one of them is a strapping powerhouse, while the other is a smaller, technically gifted athlete...
And one place is sacred to all...
We now see a blonde woman enter the ring, encouraging the two men inside...
Beneath a family home is a place where only the brave enter...
Quick-fire shots of Chris Benoit, Chris Jericho, The British Bulldog, Lance Storm and Bret Hart...
And only the strong survive.
More shots of the two men flying around the ring, visible only through the shadows...
The last graduating class of the Hart Dungeon is coming to Monday Night Raw...
The trio now stare at the camera through the shadows...
To forge a new legacy!
*End Video Package*
Back to the show and...
For the second time tonight we hear the Burn In My Light Remix, but this time it's to announce the arrival of the Intercontinental Champion
Kenny Dykstra
, who cockily strolls down to the ring, his title slung over his shoulder as he goes...
Jim Ross:
Welcome back to Monday Night Raw ladies and gentlemen. It's been quite the night so far, but right now, here comes the Intercontinental Champion Kenny Dykstra, who is scheduled to face Jeff Hardy in a rematch of the Royal Rumble.
Jerry Lawler:
Well at the Rumble, we didn't know if Jeff was gonna make it to compete in the match, but credit to Jeff, he showed up and put up one hell of a fight, but the injuries Jeff suffered on the Raw before the Rumble just proved too much for him to overcome.
Jim Ross:
Jeff Hardy suffered a con-chair-to the Monday before the Royal Rumble, he was DDT's onto a steel chair at the Rumble behind the referee's back, causign Jeff to suffer a severe concussion. We heard from Jeff's brother Matt on Friday Night Smackdown, that although Jeff may not be medically cleared to compete tonight, Matt wouldn't be able to stop Jeff from taking part in the match if he showed up tonight.
Jerry Lawler:
Yeah but J.R., Matt Hardy also
that it would be Dykstra against Hardy tonight. What do you think he meant by that J.R.?
Jim Ross:
I guess we'll just have to wait and find out 'King'.
In the ring, Dykstra demands to be handed a microphone, snatching it away from Lillian Garcia...
Kenny Dykstra:
At the Royal Rumble, I told you all that Jeff Hardy wasn't gonna show up for our Intercontinental Title match. And what do ya' know? He did.
Boos as the smug Dykstra shakes his head...
Kenny Dykstra:
Jeff showed up, despite every doctor he went to see tellin' him not to. Instead of forfeiting the match and the Intercontinental Title to me, like his doctors told him to, like his family begged him to, Jeff turned up and faced me. And y'know what? He left on a stretcher!
Kenny Dykstra:
But those doctors and his family, they weren't tellin' Jeff not to show up because of the injuries he suffered at my hands on Raw. Oh no. They didn't want Jeff to show up... because they knew if he did, I would
More heat...
Kenny Dykstra:
They knew I'd hurt Jeff, they knew I'd stop at nothin' to get my hands on the Intercontinental Title. You all cheered when Jeff turned up, you believed the fairytale could happen, you thought the movie script would come to life, you all thought Jeff would defy the odds and hold on to his title.
Dykstra stares into the crowd, shaking his head...
Kenny Dykstra:
But fairytales don't come true when I'm involved. I punished Jeff Hardy, not just for my sake... but for his. I taught Jeff a lesson, that you don't mess with me and get away with it. And when I looked into the cold, lifeless eyes of Jeff after our match at the Royal Rumble... I
he'd learnt that lesson.
More heat...
Kenny Dykstra:
And that's why I
... that Jeff Hardy won't show up tonight. I know he's not here, so that's why I want
Kenny points at referee Jack Doan, the same referee who was in charge of the Royal Rumble match...
Kenny Dykstra:
To declare me the winner of this match by forfeit. And I know you've gotta give 'im a ten count... so why don't you start counting... right now.
Reluctantly, Doan calls for the bell before staring up the ramp, making his count...
Arrogant as ever, Dykstra smirks, holding his title in the air, drawing a few more boos...
So sure of Jeff not being here, Dykstra leans against the ropes, his arms open wide, feeling invincible in the moment...
What the...? Dykstra is stunned and the crowd goes wild as Smackdown's
Matt Hardy
steps out, firing up the crowd...
Jerry Lawler:
He's here J.R.! Matt Hardy promised it would be Hardy against Dykstra, and now Matt's shown up in place of his brother!
Jim Ross:
This building has exploded! Matt Hardy is here, and look at the look on Kenny Dykstra's face! He can't believe it!
Matt is all smiles as he steps into the ring, with Dykstra's face having changed from shock to fury. Hardy again looks to fire up the crowd, but Dykstra cuts him off...
Kenny Dykstra:
Wait a minute, wait a minute! What the hell are you doin' here? This ain't your match Matt, this is Jeff's rematch!
Matt holds out his hand, asking Kenny for the microphone...
Matt Hardy:
Kenny... you're right. You're absolutely right. This
my brother Jeff's rematch. But since my brother Jeff is in no shape to compete tonight... I figured I might as well give you the ass kickin' he owes you.
Pop from the crowd as Kenny shows concern...
Matt Hardy:
And Kenny, my brother Jeff said that since Jonathan Coachman decided that tonight was gonna be the night for his rematch... and since he couldn't make it... that I could take his place.
Another good pop from the crowd, with Dykstra raging at the announcement, shaking his head and shouting no...
Matt Hardy:
So right now Kenny, it's gonna be you and me... for the Intercontinental Championship.
And with that Matt walks to the corner of the ring, handing the microphone back to Lillian Garcia and removing his t-shirt. Dykstra offers a brief protest to the referee, who simply shakes his head and calls for the bell to be rung again. As Hardy removes his t-shirt, Dykstra sees a chance to strike, clubbing Matt from behind and the match is on!
Match 3: Intercontinental Championship Match
Intercontinental Champion
Kenny Dykstra
Matt Hardy
And quickly Dykstra hammers down with furious right and left forearms to the back, dropping Matt to his knees. Dykstra then drops down to continue to attack, and once he has Matt flat on the mat Kenny applies the boots. Angry that once again a Hardy has interrupted his 10 count, Dykstra looks to pull Matt to a vertical base and chuck him in the corner, but Hardy quickly turns the tide, yanking Kenny hard against the turnbuckle and hammering in with a flurry of right hands to the midsection, before a handful of hair allows Matt to smash Kenny face first of the top turnbuckle. A hard Irish whip sends Dykstra across the ring, with Matt charging in for a corner clothesline, seamlessly transitioning into a running bulldog for an early near fall. Dazed, Dykstra crawls to the ropes, but Matt is right on him, teeing off with a few rights to the head before sending Kenny off the ropes... into a big back body drop! Dykstra is quickly back up, but hes left staggering towards the ropes, with Hardy charging... and a clothesline sends Kenny over the top rope, tumbling to the floor!
Dykstra lands hard at the foot of the aisle, while in the ring Matt briefly soaks up the cheers of the crowd before he notices Kenny rising... and comes off the opposite ropes... to connect on a baseball slide dropkick that sends Kenny flying! Hitting the ramp face first, Dykstra takes a few moments to regroup before he gets back on his feet... only to wave his hands, turn and walk out on the match! Much like Edge did earlier, another Rated-RKO member is leaving a match. The crowd boos as Dykstra leaves, but the boos soon turn to cheers as Hardy is racing up the ramp... to smash Dykstra from behind with a running forearm! Again Dykstra tastes the ramp, with Hardy quickly pulling Kenny back to his feet, running the Intercontinental Champion back down the ramp and under the bottom rope into the ring.
The crowd is alive as Hardy stares down at the desperate looking Dykstra, everyone member of the audience wanting to see Matt extract revenge for his brother and in the process win the Intercontinental Championship. Dykstra is on his hands and knees, begging Matt for mercy, while the crowd is baying for blood. Matt hears the cheers and steps forward... only for Kenny to grab the waist of Hardys combat pants... and pull Matt forward... sending him shoulder first into the steel ring post! The crowd instantly deflates as Dykstra pulls out a desperation move, causing Matt to cry out in pain.
Taking his time to return to his feet, Dykstra sees Matt still wrapped around the ring post, prompting the youngster to jump to the outside, grabbing Matts arm and placing a foot against the ring post, yanking the arm forward, applying all kinds of pressure on the shoulder that again causes Hardy to express his pain. A 5 count finally prompts Kenny to release his grip, but the champ quickly slides back under the bottom rope, catching Matt as he stumbles from the corner with a snap running neckbreaker for a 2 count.
Now Dykstra looks to apply pressure to the arm, driving his elbow into the shoulder, taking Matt down with a single-arm DDT and then scooping Hardy up for a shoulderbreaker. Dykstra continues to apply pressure, but Hardy shows great resolve to stay in the match, but his resolve is pushed to the limit as Dykstra synchs back to apply a fujiwara armbar! Dykstra pulls on the arm, applying pressure to the damaged shoulder, leaving Hardy in a desperate state, clawing for the ropes. Unable to reach with his free hand, Matt tries to manoeuvre his body to allow him to reach the ropes with his feet, kicking out at the bottom rope but continually falling short. Dykstra continues to up the pressure, with the referee repeatedly asking Hardy is he wants to submit. Defiantly Matt shouts No!, but the pain is clear for all to see, as despite his best efforts Hardy is still unable to reach the freedom of the ropes. Still Hardy struggles for the ropes, but its to no avail as Dykstra continues to ramp up the pressure, until Hardy shifts his weight onto his knees, forcing Kenny over into a bridging pin... 1... 2... no! Dykstra kicks out, breaking the hold in the process, angry at coming so close to losing his title. The angry comes out as Dykstra instantly jumps on Matt, driving knees into the shoulder as Hardy lays prone on the mat, before Kenny drags Matt to his feet, firing the challenger off the ropes... Kenny swings with a clothesline... but Hardy ducks... and strikes with the side effect!
Both men are down, and the ref is quick to administer a count, making it all the way to 7 before either man can return to a vertical base. Dykstra connects with a right, but Matt fires back with a right of his own. Favouring his left arm, Hardy tags Kenny with three rights in a row, only for Dykstra to score a kick to the midsection. Dykstra then winds up Matt for a neackbreaker, only for Hardy to counter... inverted DDT! Hardy plants the champion, and he hooks the leg... 1... 2... no! Dykstra rolls a shoulder, saving his title. The crowd encourages Hardy to continue on the attack, with the challenger scooping Dykstra up for a slam and then climbing to the second rope... legdrop finds the mark! 1... 2... no! Again Dykstra rolls the shoulder, much to the disappointment of the crowd.
Matt is back on his feet, tried, still favouring the left arm, but determined that victory is in his grasp. The challenger waits for the champion to rise, with young Dykstra slowly struggling back to his feet. Hardy sees Dykstra rise and makes his move... kick...
twist of fate... NO!
Dykstra blocks it, clubbing Hardy with a forearm to the small of the back and then pushing Matt to the corner. Kenny then charges, but Hardy uses the ropes to propel himself over the onrushing champion, landing on his feet behind Dykstra... who hits the turnbuckle and turns...
Hardy connects, hooks the leg... 1... 2... DYKSTRA GETS A FOOT ON THE ROPES!
The ref sees it in plenty of time, pointing it out to Matt as the confused challenger wonders where the 3 count was. Dejected, Hardy looks determined to finish Dykstra off, retreating to the centre of the ring, motioning for Kenny to rise. His legs like rubber, it takes an age for the champion to stagger to the centre of the ring, where Hardy is waiting to strike... with another side effect! Again Hardy plants Kenny, but instead of going for the cover, the challenger is climbing to the top rope, his back to the ring. On the top rope, Hardy looks out into the crowd, before glancing over his shoulder for one last look at his target as he launches himself... moonsault... no! Hardy crashes and eats nothing but mat, and suddenly its Dykstra with the momentum, as he drags Hardy into position and races to the top rope...
Dykstra gets all of it, and he drapes himself over Hardy, holding a hand high in the air to count along with the ref... 1... 2...
Dykstra never hooked the leg, allowing Matt to roll a shoulder! The crowd roars as Hardy hangs on, with the camera catching the amazed expression on the champions face.
Realising his finisher failed to put Matt away (although J.R. continues to remind us of the arrogance of the youngster costing him by not hooking the leg), Kennys look of amazement soon turns to vengeance, as the youngster rolls under the bottom rope. On the outside Kenny sends the timekeeper scrambling, grabbing the steel chair hes just vacated, stepping up the steel steps and through the ropes, the Rated-RKO signature weapon gripped firmly in his hands. J.R. admonishes Dykstra on commentary, with King quick to point out it was the use of a steel chair that handed Kenny the Intercontinental Championship at the Royal Rumble. The referee sees Dykstra coming, and when Kenny lifts the chair high in the air to hammer Matt, Jack Doan steps in, yanking the chair from Kenny. Furious, Dykstra turns and gets in Doans face, with Doan defiantly saying he wont let Kenny use the chair. Dykstra angrily intimidates Doan back into the corner, and Matt sees this as a chance to attack, charging in... but Dykstra moves at the last second... and Matt nails the ref against the turnbuckle! Doan crumples, dropping the chair, while Hardy doubles over in pain. Quickly, the champion makes his move, sliding the chair into position and then synching Matt in... for a
Dykstra plants Matt just like he did Jeff at the Rumble, quickly sliding the chair across the ring before hooking both legs as the ref crawls to make the count... 1... 2... 3.
Winner: And still Intercontinental Champion, Kenny Dykstra @ 10:21
The crowd shits all over Kenny's actions, who once again strikes a member of the Hardy Boyz with a steel chair. The boos quickly rain down on Dykstra, who looks at the fallen Hardy, having scooped the chair up again. Instead of doing further damage, Dykstra slams the chair to the mat, rolling under the bottom ropes to back up the ramp, a smug smirk on his face as we cut backstage.
To the sight of
Joey Styles
, who is ready for another interview...
Joey Styles:
Welcome back to Monday Night Raw. Folks my guest at this time, he is the current ECW Champion... Bobby Lashley.
A mixed response as
Bobby Lashley
walks into the frame. Lashley wears a focused snarl and a black t-shirt that says "Dominator" across it, while the ECW Championship is slung over his shoulder...
Joey Styles:
Bobby, tonight you defend the ECW Championship, a title you won back at December To Dismember in the Extreme Elimination Chamber, against Rob Van Dam i what many people consider to be a battle between 'old school' and 'new school' ECW. Earlier tonight, I spoke with RVD, and he felt that
Lashley lacked the passion and the spirit of the original ECW. With that in mind Lashley, what does this match tonight mean for you?
Slightly ticked off by Styles' line of questioning, Lashley flares his nostrils before answering...
Bobby Lashley:
What does this match mean for me? Joey, tonight is a chance for me to prove a point to a lot of people. A lot of you 'old school' ECW fans. Guys like RVD, who look at me like
evrythin' that was wrong with the new ECW. Guys like
Feeling slightly intimidated, Styles gulps as Lashley stares at him...
Bobby Lashley:
But y'see Joey,
not what was wrong with 'new school' ECW. I don't like to say it, but the problem lies with people like you and RVD.
Styles is surprised and taken aback by this comment, but Lashley doesn't notice as he carries on...
Bobby Lashley:
You put ECW up on a pedestal, like there's been nothin' better than it in the history of wrestling. Well honestly Joey, I'm gettin' a bit sick and tired of it. I get it, OK? I'm not the type of image you guys used to have. I'm not puttin' myself through tables and bustin' myself open on barbed wire every night. But guys like you and RVD... I hate to say it, but you guys need to move on.
Lashley shows a sense of regret at his words, almost feeling sorry for Styles, as if he's breaking bad news to him...
Bobby Lashley:
Tonight, ECW ends once and for all. I'm not happy about it. I take pride in bein' the ECW Champion. I give my all every time I step in that ring, for myself, and for this belt. But it's never good enough for you is it Joey? It's never good enough 'cause I ain't one of
. I was never there in the bingo hall in Philadelphia, I was never a Paul Heyman creation. I've tried my best to represent this title in the manner it deserves... but it's just not good enough for you. But y'know what?
Lashley pulls the title off his shoulder, holding it infront of Styles' face...
Bobby Lashley:
Tonight's the last night you ever gonna see this title. And it ain't gonna be around RVD's waist... it's gonna be around mine. And then maybe I'll have the respect of RVD and you... the respect an ECW Champion
Lashley takes one last look at Styles before lowering the title belt and turning to leave as we fade into a commercial...
We return to a close up of the announce desk, with J.R. and 'King' filling the frame...
Jim Ross:
Welcome back to Monday Night Raw folks. What a night it's been so far, we've already seen one championship change hands, we've got new tag team champions 'King'!
Jerry Lawler:
And what a great job Ric Flair and Carlito did to beat Edge and Randy Orton, but I think Edge has to get a huge assist after he walked out on that match. I don't think we'll be seeing Rated-RKO together in the ring anytime soon.
Jim Ross:
I think that partnership in dead and gone 'King'. Remember folks, still to come tonight, John Cena defends the WWE Championship against Shawn Michaels and Triple H in a triple threat match, and Mickie James and Victoria will face off for the Women's Championship.
Jerry Lawler:
God I can't wait for that triple threat match. John Cena's WWE Championship is in serious trouble tonight, and we could see an explosion once Shawn Michaels and Triple H start goin' at each other.
Jim Ross:
All that still to come later tonight...
The camera then widens to see a smiling
Joey Styles
has occupied a seat next to Ross and Lawler...
Jim Ross:
But right now, the ECW Championship is on the line for the very last time! And who better to join us to call this match, none other than 'The Voice Of Extreme', Joey Styles!
Joey Styles:
Thanks J.R., thanks 'King', it's a pleasure to be back on Monday Night Raw, I only wished it was under better circumstances.
The crowd explodes to welcome the arrival of
Rob Van Dam
. RVD has the crowd buzzing as he walks down the ramp, bouncing into the ring and climbing to the second rope for his usual thumb gesture...
Jim Ross:
Well despite the fact that tonight is the last night we'll see the ECW Championship on Raw, RVD challenged Bobby Lashley last week to an extreme rules match, to try and bring a bit of relevance back to the ECW Championship.
Joey Styles:
Rob Van Dam, very much the epitome of that
old school
mentality that was ECW back in the bingo hall days. He was there in the good days and the bad, and if tonight
the last night we ever see the ECW Championship, who better than RVD to send the title out in a blaze of glory?
A mixed welcome for
Bobby Lashley
as the ECW Champion confidently makes his way down to the ring, Lashley all business as he wears a determined look on his face...
Jerry Lawler:
Yeah but Joey, this ain't a bingo hall in Philadelphia. This is Monday Night Raw, and
man Bobby Lashley has been
as the ECW Champion.
Joey Styles:
No doubt about it, Lashley has been impressive since he won the title in the extreme elimination chamber. But like RVD said last week, there's nobody lookin' to step up and challenge Lashley for the ECW Championship because Lashley hasn't exactly been fulfilling his obligations as champion.
Jim Ross:
Well he's gonna fulfil 'em tonight. This is gonna be a slobberknocker, I guarantee it!
Match 4: ECW Championship Extreme Rules Match
ECW Champion
Bobby Lashley
Rob Van Dam
As both men stand toe-to-toe in the centre of the ring, its Van Dam who does all the talking, motioning Lashley to bring it and doing his signature thumb taunt. Lashley snarls and goes for a collar and elbow tie up, winning the battle of strength as he backs RVD to the corner. The referee steps in, trying to force a break, which Lashley respectively gives. Stepping out, RVD again goes for tie up, and this time he uses Lashleys momentum to twist the champion into the corner, driving the shoulder twice into the midsection and then does a back handspring out of the corner... only for Lashley to explode into Van Dam with a clothesline! The crowd gives a mixed response as Lashley flattens the challenger, with the champion tossing Van Dam through the ropes as the match quickly spills outside.
Lashleys first action is to smash RVD face first off of the steel steps, causing the challenger to stagger around the ring to just infront of the announce desk. Van Dams face then tastes the desk, before Lashey looks to send Van Dam into the steps... but RVD reverses the Irish whip... sending Lashley shoulder first into the steps! The steps go flying from the impact of Lashley crashing into them, with Lashley reaching for his shoulder. With the steps now dislodged, RVD rolls Lashley onto the top of them, the ECW Champion lying prone across the steel. Van Dam then retreats, and the crowd cheer as Van Dam charges... Rolling Thunder... onto the steel steps! Both men feel the impact of the attack, with RVD clutching his ribs as he rolls to the floor.
Van Dam is back on his feet first, and he immediately starts digging underneath the ring, having to walk around to the side of the ring at the base of the ramp to find what hes looking for, with the crowd popping as Van Dam pulls out a table! Setting the table out near the base of the ramp, Van Dam sees that Lashley has by now slid back into the ring, prompting RVD to slide back in too. Van Dam comes off the ropes, but Lashley sees him coming, catching Van Dam in his grasp and then sending him flying with an overhead belly-to-belly suplex, earning the champion a near fall. Looking to put together some offense, Lashley begins laying in with knees to the midsection, before he scoops Van Dam up for a fallaway slam that leaves Van Dam laying near the ropes by the previously set up table.
Lashley slowly makes his way towards the challenger, dragging Van Dam to a vertical base and tagging the challenger with a few stiff rights. Eyeing up the table outside, Lashley positions himself, looking over his shoulder at his target as he looks to suplex Van Dam over the top rope and through the table. Lashley hoists Van Dam up, but the challenger kicks in mid air, managing to force himself back down to the mat. Again Lashley takes Van Dam up, but again RVD manages to fight back to the mat. A stiff right hand to the gut buys Van Dam a break, and he follows with two shots to the face before charging off the ropes... straight into a back body drop... but Van Dam grabs the top rope, landing on the apron and saving himself from going through the table! Teetering on the edge, Van Dam grips the rope with his left hand while swinging with his right. Van Dam hits enough right hands to back Lashley away from the ropes, prompting Van Dam to spring to the top rope... but before he can springboard into an attack, Lashley charges... and
and spears Van Dam off the top rope... THROUGH THE TABLE BELOW!!
Boos and cheers welcome RVD crashing through the table, and as Lashley drops to a knee, the camera focuses on the unrepentant look on Lashleys face as we fade into commercial.
We return with both men in the ring, Van Dam looking glass eyed as Lashley has him locked in a camel clutch, Van Dam being subjected to the hold for most of the commercial. Tiring of the move and realising RVD wont submit, Lashley goes outside and starts rummaging under the ring, bringing out a pair of steel chairs and tossing them into the ring. Lashley again lifts up the apron, this time pulling out another table, sliding the wood under the bottom rope. The time Lashley took retrieving the chairs and table has given Van Dam a chance to recover, and the challenger sees the champion coming, grabbing a chair and tossing it to Lashley... who catches it infront of his face... VAN DAMINATOR! Van Dam drives the chair into Lashleys skull, but the toll of the match is clear as both men lie motionless on the mat.
Eventually its Van Dam whos back up first, and he grabs the table Lashley introduced to the ring, setting up near the corner. Lashley shakily makes it back up, only for Van Dam to catch him with a jumping roundhouse, knocking Lashley on his ass, head propped against the turnbuckle. Sensing what could be about to happen, the crowd pops as Van Dam positions a chair across Lashleys face. The pop increase as RVD retreats to the corner, firing himself to the top rope. Poised, Van Dam does one last thumb taunt before he flies across the ring...
Van Dam again drives a chair into Lashleys skull, prompting an E-C-DUB!! E-C-DUB!! E-C-DUB!! chant to ring out in the arena. Van Dam writhes in pain, but he somehow manages to drag Lashley away from the ropes to make the cover... 1... 2... no! Lashley rolls the shoulder, saving his title.
Van Dam returns to his feet, and he soon realizes that he has Lashley down in the middle of the ring. RVD quickly goes to the corner, again slinging himself to the top rope, where he steadies himself, taking a deep breath before launching himself for a picture perfect
Lashley rolls to safety... and VAN DAM CRASHES TO THE MAT! Van Dam kicks and clutches his ribs in agony, but Lashley wastes no time as he stands up and grabs a chair... AND SMASHES IT OFF VAN DAMS SKULL! The crowd gasps as RVD collapses, his body going limp as Lashley aggressively slams the chair down to the mat. Instead of going for the cover, the ECW champion looks to drag his lifeless challenger back to his feet. It takes an age, but eventually Lashley has RVD up, scooping Van Dam onto his shoulders and pointing at the table set up across the ring... Lashley charges for a DOMINATOR THROUGH THE TABLE... NO! Van Dam drops down the back... and rocks Lashley with a jumping roundhouse... that knocks Lashley ON TOP OF THE TABLE! Seeing he has Lashley right where he wants him, Van Dam springs to the top rope, wasting no time to launch himself...
The crowd explodes as Van Dam flies through the air, with RVD quickly diving to make the cover... 1... 2... 3!
Winner: And NEW ECW Champion, Rob Van Dam @ 15.33
The roof nearly bursts off the top of the arena in celebration as Rob Van Dam becomes the new ECW Champion! Styles is on his feet to give a standing ovation as RVD uses the ropes and the ref to prop himself up, clutching the ECW Title close to his chest...
Joey Styles:
RVD has done it! The ECW Championship is back in the hands of 'Mr. Monday Night'!
Jim Ross:
What an unbelievable effort from Van Dam! He and Lashley damn near killed each other, but it was RVD who persevered, and he is the NEW ECW Champion!
Jerry Lawler:
Unbelievable! What a way for the ECW Championship to be put to rest, with two guys pushing themselves to the limit.
was extreme!
Lashley remains down, the second defeat he's suffered in consecutive weeks, and now he's without the title he's held for the last three months. The crowd continue to cheer as RVD climbs to the second rope, hoisting his new championship high in the air as we cut backstage.
We not cut to a rowdy and boisterous locker room and to
Ric Flair
celebrating their victory from earlier tonight. The champagne flows from all angles, and while Carlito has his arm wrapped around
Torrie Wilson
, Flair somehow has pulled a bevy of stunning women into the locker room with him to help start the party...
Ric Flair:
WOOOOO!! Haha! What d'ya think o' that ladies?! Carlito... we did it brother! WOOOOO!!
Flair takes a swig from a champagne bottle while Torrie gives 'Lito a kiss on the cheek...
Hey man, Carlito and Ric Flair as 'de World Tag Team Champions? 'Dat's cool man!
Ric Flair:
I'll drink to that brother! WOOOOO! Alright ladies let's get some music goin', let's get this party started! We gotta-
Hey Ric! Ric, Ric... before you go crazy on 'de champagne man, Carlito gotta ask you somethin'. Carlito knows you heard what 'dat punk Mr. Kennedy said to you on Smackdown.
Flair turns his head, almost in disbelief that he and Carlito are about to discuss Kennedy at a time like this...
Carlito gotta know man. What's 'de deal man? You goin' to No Way Out? You gonna face Kennedy on the pay-per-view? What's 'de deal Ric?
Flair takes another swig of champagne before he answers...
Ric Flair:
Carlito my friend, you and me... we're the NEW World Tag Team Champions amigo! Kennedy is nothin' but a punk as far as I'm concerned. But you and me, this team, this friendship we have... this has the chance to be somethin' big. To be somethin' special! We are gonna defend these titles against
who wants to step up and take a shot at us. Nothin' my friend is gonna break this team up, and that's including Mr. Kennedy. So no, I am
gonna agree to face Kennedy at No Way Out.
A few boos from inside the arena, the fans disappointed at not getting the Flair/Kennedy match...
Ric Flair:
I am officially
Mr. Kennedy's challenge, because you and me my friend... we're gonna put these titles back on the map. We're gonna walk into Wrestlemania and we're gonna defend this gold! We're gonna go down in history as the
World Tag Team Champions there ever was, and
... especially not Mr. Kennedy... is gonna get in the way of that. Alright?
Carlito smiles and nods, full of respect and admiration for the legend he now calls partner...
'Dat's cool Ric... 'dat's cool.
The pair share a handshake, which quickly turns into a hug...
Ric Flair:
Hey! Ain't this supposed to be a party?
Flair grabs another bottle of champagne, popping the cork into the ceiling...
Ric Flair:
Let's go ladies! Let's party! WOOOOO!
The girls cheer and start to dance as Flair continues to throw down the champagne. Soon though the good vibes in the room quickly disappear, as all eyes turns towards the door... except for Flair, who continues to drink and dance. Eventually realising that the rest of the room has shut up and turned towards the door, Flair and Carlito do likewise... to see that
Shelton Benjamin
Charlie Hass
have now entered the room. With the room now quiet, Benjamin breaks out with a long, sarcastic slow-clap as he and Haas walk towards Flair and 'Lito...
Shelton Benjamin:
Way to go guys. I mean really, really impressive. The way you two guys beat one Randy Orton... that was impressive.
The group of beautiful girls cower behind Flair as 'Naitch' steps forward...
Shelton Benjamin:
Almost as impressive as the way you cheated to beat us last week.
Charlie Hass:
And every other time you've pulled some kinda stunt to beat one of us.
Flair smiles as he hands the champagne bottle in his hand to one of the girls...
Ric Flair:
Listen guys. I've you two wanna take a shot at me and Carlito... all you gotta do is ask. Carlito and Ric Flair are the NEW World Tag Team Champions, and we won't back down from anybody. Especially not two guys we already beat.
Benjamin and Haas seethe at that comment, while Carlito shares a quick chuckle with Torrie...
Shelton Benjamin:
Oh don't worry Ric. We'll be comin' for our shot. And we ain't gonna wait very long. C'mon man, let's get outta here.
Haas takes one last stare at Carlito before he follows Benjamin out of the door, leaving the camera focused on the smiling tag team champions as we fade into commercial.
We return to a battle-weary
Bobby Lashley
stumbling through the backstage area. Hurting from his match, pissed off at losing his title, Lashley kicks over trash cans and barges past backstage workers. Suddenly
approaches the former ECW Champion, microphone in hand...
Uh Bobby? Bobby can we have a few words regarding...
Maria lets out a cry as Lashley snatches the microphone clean out of her hands...
Bobby Lashley:
No interviews. Understand?
Maria cowers, the presence of Lashley clearly intimidating her...
Bobby Lashley:
I said DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME?!
Fear grips Maria as she only mumble a "Mm-hmmm" and nod her head in response. Lashley shakes his head, rubbing his hand across his face. Releasing he's in the wrong,
Lashley shows remorse
as he goes to say sorry... but instead Lashley slams the mic off the concrete floor in a last show of frustration before he storms off to the locker rooms, leaving the visibly shaken Maria behind.
We now go to see
Todd Grisham
standing by...
Todd Grisham:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time... he is one of the challengers in tonight's WWE Championship triple threat match... Shawn Michaels!
Whilst the majority of the reaction that welcomes
Shawn Michaels
is cheers, there is a small undertone of boos, fans obviously not knowing what to make of Michaels' recent actions...
Shawn Michaels:
Shawn, tonight you face both John Cena and Triple H with Cena's WWE Championship on the line. But Shawn, is the WWE Championship a secondary concern for you right now given what happened as we went off the air last week between you and Triple H?
The worried look that seems to be permanently etched on Michael's face lately is in full force as HBK pauses before responding...
Shawn Michaels:
Y'know somethin' Todd? I'm a great believer in the Lord above havin' a plan for all of us. I believe in divine intervention. I believe that the Lord has a hand in everythin' that happens in our lives. And lately it seems that every time me and Triple H get in the ring together, one of us winds up hittin' the other one. And I dunno why this keeps happening.
Michaels glances to the heavens, almost knowingly...
Shawn Michaels:
But I guess it's just the way things are meant to be. I guess me and Triple H... maybe we'll never get our friendship back on track. I meant what I said last week, I truly did want to clear the air with Hunter. I offered the olive branch of peace, but for some reason or another, from Edge comin' down to the ring, to Shane McMahon puttin' us in a match together, to me
kickin' Hunter square on the chin... I guess it just wasn't meant to work out like I planned.
Sadness and regret now cross Michaels' face...
Shawn Michaels:
But maybe... maybe I was never meant to rebuild my friendship with Triple H. Maybe all that's happened lately, from DX ending, to what happened in the Rumble, to last week, maybe all of that was part of a bigger picture. A bigger picture... that's gonna lead me to the WWE Championship tonight.
Pop from inside the arena...
Shawn Michaels:
Maybe I had to lose a friend... to gain what I truly desire. Maybe it's a sacrifice I had to make.
Michaels again pauses, composing himself...
Shawn Michaels:
I guess tonight, we'll all find out for sure. Tonight, I'm gonna roll back the years, give the performance of a lifetime, be the old 'Aitch-Bee-Kay people talk about. I have nothin' against John Cena. Tonight, whatever happens, it's not personal between me and him. But Triple H... it's pretty personal between you and me. Last week, I hit you with the sweet chin music by accident. And I guarantee, despite the rumours people wanna spread, that
an accident. But tonight...
Michaels now has a more focused look on his face as he turns to the camera...
Shawn Michaels:
If I get the chance to kick your head off and win the WWE Championship... I'm gonna take it Hunter. I only hope you can forgive me...
Michaels again glances to the heavens...
Shawn Michaels:
As my Lord above will.
A stunned silence hits the crowd, no one quite sure how to react as Michaels walks away. Grisham has a concerned look on his face, with everybody wondering about the mental state of Michaels as we cut back into the arena...
Jim Ross:
Well... I guess I should apologise on behalf of Bobby Lashley. Nobody wants to see somethin' like that happen to a young lady like Maria.
Joey Styles:
Certainly Bobby Lashley very frustrated by his loss earlier tonight at the hands of RVD. But what about Shawn Michaels right there? That was certainly an
interview from 'The Heartbreak Kid'.
Jerry Lawler:
I guess Shawn realises that to be WWE Champion, you have to make sacrifices. I know how badly Shawn wants to reconcile with Triple H, but it may not be able to happen for Michaels if he wants to win tonight.
A solid pop welcomes the arrival of
Mickie James
, who is as bubbly as ever as she bounces down the ramp, the Women's Championship slung over her shoulder while she slaps hands of the ringside fans...
Jim Ross:
It's goin' to be quite the main event when Michael, 'The Game' and John Cena collide. But right now, the Women's Championship is on the line. Mickie James defends the gold against Victoria, when we return. You won't wanna miss it folks!
we return to see
already striding down the ramp, her music playing, accompanied by some decent heat from the audience...
Jim Ross:
There you see the ever dangerous Victoria, a young lady who three weeks ago had a shot at the Women's Championship, only for Mickie James to score, in the eyes of many people, a fluke victory. The champion surprised the challenger according to anyone who watched that match three weeks ago.
Jerry Lawler:
I gotta admit, I was one of those people who felt Mickie James caught Victoria by surprise. And I gotta be honest, now that I think Victoria is gonna be a lot more prepared, I dunno if Mickie James is gonna be able to hold onto her title tonight.
Joey Styles:
It's gonna be a tough task that's for sure...
Match 5: Women's Championship Match
Women's Champion
Mickie James
Having dominated the previous encounter between the two, its no surprise that from the first collar and elbow tie up Victoria forcibly pushes Mickie down to the mat. The champion returns to her feet tentatively for another tie up, and once again the challengers overpowers Mickie, as Victoria twists into a waistlock and then takes James down with a belly-to-back takedown. Instead of pressing on this advantage, Victoria instead returns to her feet, her arrogance clear for all to see as she easily allows Mickie back to a vertical base. The crowd is soon cheering though as Mickie tackles Victoria to the mat, the champion mounting the surprised challenger and hammering her with forearms. The two battle for position, and wind up rolling under the bottom rope to the floor.
Outside, Mickie tags Victoria with another pair of forearms, before the aggression of this feud comes to the fore as Victoria is smashed face first off of the top of the announce desk. Mickie grabs another hand full of hair and looks to repeat the trick, only for Victoria to hit an elbow to the midsection, and as the champion staggers back, Victoria manages to drive Mickie spine first into the side of the ring. Taking a few seconds to recover, Victoria again drives Mickie into the apron, before rolling the champion back into the ring for a 2 count.
Victoria looks to work on the spine as she locks on a bridging reverse chinlock, but the champion quickly works back to her feet. Victoria keeps her hands clasped around Mickies head, but Mickie fires elbows into the gut, coming off the ropes, ducking a clothesline and building up a head of steam... but Victoria takes her up for a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker... only for Mickie to counter with a headscissors takedown! The speed of the match builds now as Mickie catches the onrushing challenger with a pair of armdrags, finishing the sequence with a dropkick for a near fall. Looking to build on this momentum, Mickie pushes Victoria to the corner, and after a few boots to the gut, the champion goes for an Irish whip... but the challenger reverses... and Mickie crashes into the corner, immediately grabbing at her back. Victoria then rushes in, only for Mickie to fire a boot to the face, placing both legs on Victorias shoulders and looking for the Mick-A-Rana... but Victoria hangs on... and viciously powerbombs Mickie against the turnbuckle!
The crowd gasps as the champion hits the corner hard, with Victoria dragging Mickie to the centre of the ring... 1... 2... Mickie rolls a shoulder. Victoria then looks to continue punishing the spine, snapping Mickie down with a backbreaker and then stomping Mickie as the champion crawls for the ropes. Again the back is target as with Mickie draped over the middle rope, the challenger c=drives her knee into the small of the back, wrenching back on the chin with the ref quickly in to give Victoria a 5 count to release the hold. Feeling in control, Victoria grabs a handful of hair and viciously tosses Mickie across the ring. Trying to gain a bit of heat, Victoria arrogantly rubs the sole of her boot across Mickies face, before again grabbing the hair and tossing Mickie across the ring. The crowd answers with boos, but Victoria doesnt care, shaking her head at the audience before again scooping Mickie up... and taking her up onto her shoulder for the Spiders Web... but Mickie counters in mid air... with a tornado DDT!
The champion pulls out a desperation counter, leaving both Divas grounded. Slowly they return to their feet, with Victoria again reaching for the hair... but Mickie fights her away, striking with a pair of forearms that back Victoria to the ropes. An Irish whip sends Victoria across, with Mickie catching her with big clothesline. Victoria is back up, only for a right hand to knock her back down. Again Victoria is up and down from a stinging shot by the champion, until the challenger stays down long enough for a cover... 1... 2... Victoria kicks out. Once more Mickie looks to send Victoria to the corner, only for the challenger to reverses... but again Mickie gets the boot up... and then straddles Victorias head... and this time connects on the Mick-A-Rama! 1... 2... no! Victoria rolls the shoulder at the last second. Sensing victory is close, Mickie stands, waiting for the challenger. Victoria makes it back up, only to be rocked by a forearm, prompting Mickie to charge off the ropes... for a Lou Thesz Press... but Victoria catches her... and counters with a massive spinning spinebuster! 1... 2... 3?... NO! Somehow Mickie rolls a shoulder, leaving Victoria stunned.
The challenger is back on her feet to confront the referee, who is adamant it was only 2. Incensed, the challenger grabs the champion by the hair, drilling a forearm to the spine before Victoria synchs Mickie in... and takes her up into the air... and across her shoulder...
Widows Peak... NO!!
Mickie rolls all the way through with a sunset flip, but she cant hold it long enough for a pin. Victoria rolls through and quickly back to her feet, but Mickie is waiting for her... to nail the
Long Kiss Goodnight!!
Theres no lip-locking, but the massive roundhouse finds its mark, and Mickie drops down to hook both legs... 1... 2... 3!
Winner: And still Women's Champion, Mickie James @ 08.04
Finally, a decisive victory for Mickie over Victoria. Exhausted, Mickie remains slumped on the mat, selling every ounce of the beating she received. Victoria remains grounded, flat on her back as Mickie slowly rises to her feet. The ref hands Mickie her title and raises her hand to an appreciative pop from the crowd. Victoria is now coming around, slamming her hand off the mat, but it's the image of the victorious champion that lingers as we cut backstage.
To the sight of two of the secutiry guards we saw earlier, this time the duo stood infront of a door. The pair part allowing the camera through, and as one of them opens the door we quickly see we've entered the office of
Mr. McMahon
. The sight of the chairman of the board draws boos from the crowd, and more boos ring out as the camera pans to see both
Shane McMahon
Jonathan Coachman
stood nearby...
Vince McMahon:
Well at least I don't have to look at that piece o' trash ECW Title anymore. Somethin' good's come out of this night so far.
Shane bits his lip as he nods his head, while 'Coach' gives an uneasy laugh...
Vince McMahon:
What the hell's gotten into you two?
Jonathan Coachman:
Well, uh... Mr. McMahon, I know you heard what John Cena said earlier tonight. He's pretty mad right now. I mean, you saw what he tried to do to me in the ring. I just...
'Coach' pauses, almost afraid of what he's about to say...
Jonathan Coachman:
I don't think we oughta make him any angrier. He tore through your security like they weren't even there. Who knows what could happen if he gets his hands on us tonight.
Mr. McMahon:
Jonathan Coachman:
Oh... uh, on
Mr. McMahon.
Vince shakes his head at 'Coach' in disgust...
Mr. McMahon:
What are you scared 'Coach'? Huh? Well let me tell you somethin', I may have sent you out there earlier to deliver my message to Cena, but since you failed to do that, I'm gonna take matters into my own hands... and send Shane out there to do it.
Stunned, Shane turns to his father...
Shane McMahon:
What? You want
to go out there tonight?
Mr. McMahon:
What, you're scared like Coachman? Dammit Shane, you're a McMahon! John Cena put his hands on me two weeks ago, and you're little attempt at payback last week didn't exactly work now did it? That's why tonight, the two of you,
the security are gonna take care of things. You understand me?
Reluctantly, Shane nods his head...
Shane McMahon:
Yeah. Alright. I'll take care of it. By the end of the night, John Cena will know never to screw with the McMahons.
A beaming smile of pride crosses Vince's face, while Shane remains decisively unconfident as we fade into commercial.
Silence as we return...
An initial gasp quickly turns to heat as the menacing savage
paces his way down the ramp,
Armando Alejandro Estrada
close behind him as always...
Joey Styles:
His domination has been second to none. A savage beast of monstrous proportions. The undefeated 'Samoan Bulldozer' Umaga. And the question is 'King', who on earth could stop this monster's path of destruction?
Jerry Lawler:
I honestly don't know. I've never seen anythin' like him. The power, the fury of this man... it's scary.
Jim Ross:
Both Rob Van Dam and Bobby Lashley have tried in recent weeks to tame this savage, but nothin' it seems can phase this man.
Jerry Lawler:
And I'd hate to be the poor guy who has to face Umaga tonight.
In the ring, Umaga snarls as he awaits his opponent, Estrada speaking words into his ear, seemingly psyching up his monster. Umaga lets out a native cry, demanding an opponent. The call is answered as...
A tentative, almost fearful
Super Crazy
steps out, not his usual confident self, as the Mexican puffs out his cheeks as he slowly makes his way down to the ring...
Jim Ross:
Aw Gawd.
Jerry Lawler:
Well I admit the guts of Super Crazy to step into the ring with Umaga... but I don't think this is all that smart. I think this is more than crazy. This is more like super insane in if you ask me.
Match 6:
w/ Armando Alejandro Estrada vs.
Super Crazy
The bell rings, but neither man moves much, with Super Crazy showing a look of fear on his face. A roar from Umaga finally draws Crazy towards him, but as Super charges, he runs straight into a shot to the throat, knocking him down. Crazy coughs and splutters, but Umaga is in no mood to let him recover, scooping Crazy to his feet to fire him off the ropes... straight into a massive Samoan drop! Down goes Crazy again, but with Estrada barking orders, Umaga looks to fire through his repertoire, dragging Crazy to the corner, propping his head against the bottom turnbuckle. Umaga then retreats to the opposite corner, letting out a tribal scream before bouncing in the air and charging across the ring... Samoan wrecking ball! Crazys neck furiously snaps back against the turnbuckle, and it looks like hes about to put out of his misery as Mags drags him to his feet... Samoan spike! 1... 2... 3.
Winner: Umaga @ 01.38
Joey Styles:
Dominant. Simply dominant.
Jerry Lawler:
That was scary. I mean, can you honestly see anyone stopping this man? I know I can't.
Jim Ross:
It make take someone beyond human to stop Umaga.
In the ring, Estrada has stepped through the ropes with a microphone to join his savage. Super Crazy is helped towards the ropes by the referee, with Estrada laying in a few cheap kicks to speed up Crazy's exit from the ring. With Crazy now under the bottom rope and on the floor, Estrada turns to the hard camera...
Armando Alejandro Estrada:
Tudos... excussemay, haha! Everybody listen... to
! Last week amigos, we said we wanted our... comos se dice...
here on Raw. But 'dis?
Estrada steps towards the ropes, pointing at Super Crazy who is slowly being helped up the ramp by the referee...
Armando Alejandro Estrada:
is what we get?
is no match for The Saaaaamoan Bulldozerrr... UMAGA! Haha!
Armando Alejandro Estrada:
We want 'de... comos se dice... 'de
amigos! And we ain't gonna wait any longer. So next week, we gonna...
What the...? A collective stun soon turns to cheers as the ever popular
CM Punk
steps out from the back. Now dressed in jeans and a hoodie, Punk already has a mic in his hand as he waits for the pop to die down...
CM Punk:
Geez, Armando. Why so mad man? I don't get it. You've got this monster, this beast at your disposal... yet each and every week, you come out here and do nothin' but whine and complain.
Estrada rips off his sunglasses in disgust...
CM Punk:
But y'know somethin' Armando? I hear ya' buddy. I get where you're comin' from on this. Y'see, in one strange... weird way, me and your boy Umaga... we're exactly the same.
Estrada squints his eyes, staring in confusion...
CM Punk:
Now don't get me wrong. Me and Umaga, we couldn't be more different on a lotta things. I can actually string a sentence together and I don't need to tattoo the country of my birth on my stomach to remember where I come from.
Now Estrada stares in anger...
CM Punk:
But y'see Armando, there is
thing that ties me and Umaga together. You and Umaga... you talk about wanting a challenge. You talk about wanting competition. Well y'see, I
'The Straight-Edge Superstar'. I have no weakness, I don't drink, I don't smoke, I don't do drugs I have no addiction... except
Pop from the crowd with Estrada looking on intently...
CM Punk:
I need... I
... competition.
Another pop...
CM Punk:
So Armando, if you and 'The Jungle V.I.P' over there are lookin' for a challenge... then look no further... than
The crowd cheers as Estrada turns towards Umaga, the monster simply snarling at Punk...
Armando Alejandro Estrada:
'Ju wanna challenge us amigo? Haha! 'Ju sure you don't take drugs? 'Ju sound like 'ju high on somethin' amigo.
Punk laughs as he runs a hand through his hair...
CM Punk:
Armando, I guarantee you, I'm in no way under the influence. I've never thought more clearer in my entire life. You want a challenge Armando? Well here's your challenge. Next week... me and Umaga... one on one. A lot of guys have taken a shot at beatin' the monster... and I wanna go next.
A big pop receives Punk's challenge as Estrada calmly puts his sunglasses back on, pondering his response...
Armando Alejandro Estrada:
'Ju know somethin' mi amigo? 'Ju got a deal!
Pop, but Estrada isn't finished...
Armando Alejandro Estrada:
But 'ju should know 'dis. Next week, in 'dis ring... Umaga will... comos se dice... DESTROY 'ju! And when we finished with 'ju... 'ju gonna want to start takin' the painkillers amigo.
Despite the ominous warning from Estrada, Punk smiles down at Umaga, knowing he's got what he wanted...
Jerry Lawler:
J.R., I think we just found the one man more crazy than Super Crazy.
Jim Ross:
Well credit where credit's due 'King'. CM Punk wants to make a name for himself here on Monday nights, and what better way to do it than to be the man who finally beats Umaga.
Joey Styles:
Yeah but he came out here and he
Umaga! That's not just crazy, that could prove to be suicidal!
We now cut backstage where we see a solemn looking
Johnny Nitro
slowly stuffing his ring gear into a sports bag. Nitro picks up a pair of sunglasses, holding them in his hands... and then launching them across the room. Off camera we hear a door swing open, with Nitro turning... to see
Chris Masters
have entered the room...
Chris Masters:
Melina says you wanna talk to me?
Almost reluctantly, Nitro nods his head...
Johnny Nitro:
I uh...
Nitro pauses...
C'mon Johnny. We talked about this. We both agreed... it's for the best.
Again, reluctantly, Nitro nods his head...
Johnny Nitro:
... be interested in teamin' with you Chris.
Melina lets out a quick squeal of joy as Masters smiles...
Chris Masters:
I knew you'd come around man. You made the right choice. Put it there...
Masters extends his hand...
Chris Masters:
And Nitro... slowly... offers his hand in return. Melina quickly claps her hands in delight as once again she finds herself in control of a tag team, with the camera zooming in on the handshake as we fade into a video package.
*Video Package*
We open to a pitch black, with the faint sound of a revving motor engine slowly but surely getting louder...
The road may be long...
Slowly on the horizon we see a red convertible driving over a hill, heading towards a sunset which lights the screen...
The journey may be treacherous...
The revs of the engine increase and get louder, with the camera closing in on shots of the side of the car...
But you'll love every second of it!
We now skim along the rear of the car, the sun glistening on the chrome duel exhaust...
So strap yourself in...
The car now speeds past a road sign that reads "8 MILE ROAD"...
And get ready!
From behind we see an image of the Detroit skyline, with our car heading down a straight road towards it...
20 years on, Wrestlemania returns to Detroit, Michigan!
More fast paced shots of the car racing through the streets of Detroit...
And it's going to be...
The car suddenly crashes into the screen, with the grill of the car having the official Wrestlemania 23 logo and tagline printed on it...
The ride of your life!
*End Video Package*
We cut back to the announce desk and the sight of J.R. and 'King'...
Jim Ross:
Folks, the time has come. After this commercial break, the WWE Championship is on the line in a triple threat match, featuring Triple H, Shawn Michaels and the WWE Champion John Cena.
We now cut to the image of
Triple H
confidently walking through the backstage corridors, the crowd giving a loud pop, although there is a light smattering of boos at the sight of 'The Game'...
Joey Styles:
And there you see 'The Game', Triple H. A man who's had his share of problems with Shawn Michaels over the last month or so. Could it all break down tonight when Michaels and 'The Game' step into the ring together, or can Triple H keep his focus on the WWE Championship?
Jerry Lawler:
Well we heard from Shawn Michaels earlier, and he felt confident he could but his personal problems with Triple H aside for one night to focus on winning the WWE Championship. And I gotta think that if Shawn Michaels can do that, 'The Game' won't have any trouble doin' it too.
Jim Ross:
Certainly Triple H is a very focused, determined indi-
J.R. stops dead in his tracks, and the crowd quickly rains down with boos as
Shane McMahon
steps out from a nearby doorway. Shane, smug as always, smirks at Triple H, both men taking their time to stare at each other before Shane speaks...
Shane McMahon:
Hey Hunter. I just uh... I just wanted to wish you good luck in your match tonight.
Not impressed, 'The Game' takes a slug of his water bottle...
Triple H:
... wanna wish
... good luck?
Shane McMahon:
Yeah man. I mean, y'know... there's no way John Cena's gonna leave that match tonight WWE Champion. I am
gonna make sure of that. As far as I'm concerned, you and Shawn Michaels can fight it out among each other to see who gets the title.
Still unimpressed, 'The Game' steps towards Shane...
Triple H:
Listen Shane...
And then goes nose to nose with him...
Triple H:
Stay the hell out of this match tonight. I'm warning you... you get involved in this match... and it won't just be John Cena you gotta worry about. You're gonna be worryin' about me too.
Shane adopts his father's trademark 'gulp' before Trips turns and walks away, leaving the camera focused on a slightly flustered McMahon as we fade into commercial...
We return to...
No light smattering of boos here as the arena erupts as
Triple H
emerges, his head lowered as he stands just out of the entrance way...
Joey Styles:
It's time for our main event folks! The WWE Championship is on the line, and here comes the former 10 time World Champion. Tonight, can Triple H put aside the problems he's had with Shawn Michaels and win championship number 11?
Jerry Lawler:
Like I said before we went to commercial, I don't think that Triple H will have any problems keeping his focus
of Shawn Michaels and on the WWE Championship. But J.R., what did you make of what Shane McMahon had to say to Triple H before we cut to commercial? Triple H might be able to not focus on Shawn Michaels, but what if Shane McMahon gets involved?
Jim Ross:
I don't think we'll need to worry about Shane McMahon tonight. You've got three men in that ring in Triple H, Michaels and Cena who all hate Shane with a passion. I don't think Shane would dare walk down that aisle and interject himself in this match.
As our new commentary trio speak, the noise level has hit the roof as Trips is up on the apron, spraying water into the air before storming through the ropes and then to the second corner. 'The Game' continues to pose for the crowd as...
Again no mixed response, just a good solid pop to welcome
Shawn Michaels
to the arena. The concerned look that Michaels has had on his face in recent weeks is replaced tonight by a steely grit of determination as Michaels drops to his knees and opens his arms to the heavens...
Jim Ross:
Earlier tonight, Shawn Michaels talked about his recent troubles with Triple H perhaps being part of a bigger plan. That if losing a friend meant winning the WWE Championship, it was a sacrifice he was willing to make. After almost five years without championship gold, could tonight see Shawn Michaels once again become champion?
Jerry Lawler:
Certainly Shawn is gonna have the man upstairs in his corner. But what about the mindset of Shawn Michaels goin' into this match? I can't believe that Shawn could just switch off the emotions he's been feeling in recent weeks and focus on the WWE Championship just like that.
In the ring, the tension between Michaels and 'The Game' is obvious as both men stand in opposite corners from each other, staring intently across the ring. The crowd buzzes as both men stand, motionless, looking across at a former partner... until...
A deafening but mixed response for the most controversial champion in WWE history.
John Cena
charges out onto the stage for the second time tonight, saluting the crowd before racing down the ramp and sliding under the bottom rope...
Joey Styles:
No one has ever split opinion like John Cena! He enters this match the WWE Champion, but will Cena overcome this triple threat situation to hold on to the title he fought so hard to win back?
Jerry Lawler:
I honestly can't see it happening. I know John Cena has overcame the odds many times before, but I think trying overcome
Triple H and Shawn Michaels might be a step too far.
Main Event: WWE Championship Triple Threat Match
WWE Champion
John Cena
Shawn Michaels
Triple H
The tension is in the air as all three men hang back in a corner of the ring, Triple H and Michaels stood opposite each other, Cena in the middle, his head darting from side to side to keep an eye on both opponents. Michaels and Triple H only have eyes for each other though, both men staring a whole through each other. The buzz of the crowd continues to build, and it further increases as The Game strides forward to the middle of the ring. Michaels does likewise, the two former DX members not going face to face, but close enough to see the whites of their eyes. The tense standoff continues until Cena also steps forward, looking to make his presence felt... only for Michaels and Trips to grab Cena... and launch him over the top rope to the floor! The champion hits the floor hard, but all attention heads straight back to the ring, where once again The Game and The Heartbreak Kid go toe-to-toe... and soon the fists start to fly! Michaels and The Game explode with right hands, until Michaels rattles off three and a row, backing The Game to the corner where he unloads with stiff chops to the chest. Picking himself up, Cena shrugs his shoulders to the amusement of the crowd, deciding to let his two opponents go at it for a while. Michaels continues to sting the chest of The Game, until he goes for an Irish whip across... only for Trips to reverses it, sending Michaels upside down into the corner... and then The Game hammers Michaels as he drops back to the mat with a clothesline.
Sensing a chance to get back into things, Cena slides under the bottom rope, spinning Trips around to smack him with a few rights before he sends The Game to the corner, coming off the ropes for the one handed bulldog. Cena then snaps off the fishermans suplex, hooking the leg for a cover that is interrupted by the diving Michaels. Now its Michaels and the champion who go at each other, with Michaels again unloading with hard knife edged chops against the ropes. An Irish whip sends Cena off the ropes, but he catches Michaels with his head down looking for a back body drop, prompting Cena to deliver a kick to the chest... and then hoisting Michaels up onto his shoulders...
Michaels struggles and drops to his feet behind Cena...
The crowd erupts as Michaels damn near takes Cenas head off, but he cant take advantage with a cover as Cena lands on the outside, and its on the image of the fallen champion that we fade into the final commercial of the evening.
And we return to see Michaels and Triple H in the ring, with HBK connecting on an inverted atomic drop before a pair of chops back The Game to the ropes. Michaels goes for an Irish whip, but Trips reverses... only for Michaels to duck a clothesline... but Triple H fires back with the high knee strike! Another Irish whip, but Michaels reverses... but he again ducks his head, allowing The Game to hit the facebreaker knee smash and come off the ropes... but Michaels ducks the running clothesline and picks up speed... for the flying forearm! J.R. points out that since they know each other so well, its no surprise that neither man can take control. In the ring, Michaels and Triple H are down, and so is Cena on the outside... until Michaels kips up! HBK explodes to his feet, just in time for The Game to rise...
Triple H ducks and waits for Michaels to turn... spinebuster! The Game plants Michaels, and now Triple H waits for Michaels... kick...
Michaels counters with a back body drop!
With both men down, the crowd rises again as John Cena has made it back to the apron and is climbing to the top rope! Poised, The Champ steadies himself as Michaels and Triple H rise near each other... allowing Cena to connect on a double diving legdrop bulldog! Cena drives both challengers into the mat, and now its the champion who looks to attack, snatching Michaels as he rises and launching him over the top rope. Now its just Cena and Triple H, with the champion stalking his prey... then taking The Game up on his shoulder...
Triple H slides off... and looks for the pedigree... but Cena grabs the boot... and trips the other leg...
The arena comes unglued as Cena wrenches Triple H into the STFU! Scratching and crawling for the ropes, The Game tries desperately to fight free of the submission, but Cena has it locked in tight, pulling back on the neck, keeping Trips down. Desperately Triple H inches his body closer to the ropes... but its no use, The Game cant reach, hes gotta tap... until Michaels grabs Cena by the ankle, pulling him towards the centre of the ring... and twisting into a
Michaels turns the tables by locking Cena in a submission hold, and suddenly its the champion who is clawing for the ropes! Slowly, inch by inch, Cena drags himself and Michaels towards the ropes, reaching out... but just falling short. Once again Cena shows incredible strength, forcing himself towards the ropes, reaching out... and grabbing the bottom rope!
Realising his attempt failed, Michaels breaks the hold and returns to his feet, just as Triple H does the same. A tried looking slugfest ensues, with both men trading shots until The Game hits a knee to the midsection and fired Michaels to the corner, following in with a clothesline. Michaels collapses in the corner, but now Cena is back up, drawing Triple Hs attention, with Trips snapping some stiff punches before going for the Irish whip... Cena reverses, but he lowers his head...
Cena reaches down, grabbing a knee... and forcing Trips on his shoulders...
Once again Triple H fights free, dropping to his feet and pushing Cena towards the now standing Michaels...
Michaels connects, but Cena only stumbles towards The Game... straight into a
Triple H plants Cena, and he goes for the cover... but of course, Michaels breaks it up at 2!
Cena rolls to the side of the ring, looking out cold, with the two former DX members now slugging it out. Tired right hands and chops are thrown, until Trips goes for an Irish whip... but Michaels ducks his clothesline... and keeps running... flying forearm! Michaels connects... and fires up with a kip up! Seeing his opponent down, HBK goes to the corner and climbs to the top rope... elbow finds its mark! 1... 2... Triple H rolls the shoulder! Michaels felt he had it won, only for The Game to stay alive. Sensing that with Cena down and Triple H hurting this is his chance to win, Michaels stands in the corner... and he stomps his foot... and waits for The Game to rise... tuning up the band... stomp after stomp... Triple H is up, and he staggers towards Michaels...
But Triple H stumble towards the now standing John Cena... who hoists The Game up onto his shoulders... in position for the FU, but here comes Michaels... and Cena shows superhuman strength to LIFT MICHAELS ONTO HIS SHOULDERS TOO...
Cena drills both Michaels and Triple H, and he hooks the leg of The Game... 1... 2...
Cena cant believe it! He lifts his head, wondering where the hell was the 3 count, searching for the referee, not realising that hes down on the floor outside the ring. Sitting up, Cena continues to look around ringside... until he sets his eyes on Shane! Furious, Cena clearly shouts You sunnova bitch! at the smirking McMahon... but the smirk soon fades as Cena makes a move to roll under the bottom rope... and the chase is on! Cena races after Shane as both men run around the ring, but theres a commotion at the top of the ramp... as
Vince McMahon
steps out, waving his security force down to the ring! Cena continues the chase as Shane slides into the ring, and then out the other side, just in time as the security makes it to the ring... and four of them tackle Cena to the mat! Exhausted from the match, Cena cant offer much resistance as the posse of security guards jump the WWE Champion, holding down to the mat. Seeing that Cena is down, McMahon rushes over to the announce desk, pushing Lillian Garcia aside and snatching up the steel chair she previously sat on.
Shane orders the guards to pull Cena to his feet, and with six of them keeping a tight grip, Cena is powerless as hes raised to his feet... and held in position... as
Shane cracks the steel chair off Cenas skull!
The crowd shits all over it as Cenas legs buckle, but the security keep Cena standing... allowing Shane to again
nail Cena with the chair!
Nothing but pure heat as Shane orders his team to dump Cena to the mat, with McMahon adding the ultimate insult of kicking Cena under the bottom rope to the floor, all the while a beaming Vince looks on, proud of his sons handy work... but that smile soon turns to fear, as Triple H is now stood behind Shane... SLEDGEHAMMER IN HAND! Frantically the hired goons point for Shane to turn, as The Game hoists the hammer high in the air. Shane turns... and his jaw drops, as his life flashes before his eyes... but before Triple H can swing, Shane grabs a guard and tosses him forward... so Trips drives the sledgehammer into his skull! Shane flees from the ring, but the guards keep coming... one guard has the sledgehammer drilled into his gut... another gets it driven off his skull! Michaels is back up, picking up the steel chair Shane dropped... cracking it off a guards skull! The last three guards charge, with the former DX members working in tandem... steel chair... sledgehammer... another steel chair shot! The security guards are all dispatched, with the crowd in raptures as The Game roars his approval... until...
The crowd is stunned....
As Shawn Michaels...
The crowd is furious, shitting all over Michaels actions. The Game crashes to the mat instantly, with Michaels releasing his grip on the chair... then dropping to both knees... and draping himself over Triple H... just in time for the referee to crawl back into the ring...
Winner: And NEW WWE Champion, Shawn Michaels @ 18.12
Joey Styles:
What the...?
Jerry Lawler:
Oh my G- Did that just happen?
Jim Ross:
Sitting up, Michaels runs both hands through his hair, covering his face with his hands on the way back down, a man who feels redemption. A man... who's conscience is clear?
Jerry Lawler:
Can you believe this?! Shawn Michaels is the WWE Champion... and he just took Triple H's head off to do it!
Joey Styles:
What can be going through the mind of Shawn Michaels right now? 'HBK' sought peace with Triple H, he wanted forgiveness for his actions... and now he does this?
Jim Ross:
Shane McMahon got to John Cena, but it was Shawn Michaels who took advantage of it. God I... I just can't believe it! What the hell has happened here tonight?! WHAT THE HELL IS SHAWN MICHAELS THINKING?!
Returning to his feet, Michaels looks around him. Carnage. Mayhem. Cena down, the former WWE Champion, a broken man on the floor, looking out cold, probably still not aware that hes just lost his title. In the ring, Triple H, a former friend, not moved an inch since a steel chair struck his skull. The crowd, still stunned from what has happened, finally breaks out with a chorus of boos as Michaels drops down to the mat and rolls under the bottom rope, the WWE Championship clutched tight to his chest...
Joey Styles:
Shawn Michaels is the new WWE Champion... and I don't think John Cena even knows he's lost the title!
Jim Ross:
John Cena is out cold right infront of us. What the hell's gonna happen next week? What's Cena gonna do when he realises what's happened? What's 'The Game' gonna do when he gets his hands on Shawn Michaels? What the hell has Shawn Michaels got to say about all of this!?
Slowly walking up the ramp, Michaels stares dead ahead, an expression-less look on his face. Much like the night that started all this, Michaels walks up the ramp, his back to Triple H, much like 'The Game' did to Michaels almost one month ago. In the ring, Trips has finally come around, propping himself up on his elbows, just long enough to gather himself... with 'The Game' finally realising what's just went down. The new champion strides from the ring... where rage engulfs his former friend... as we fade... to... black.
*End Show*
Current Card for WWE SATURDAY NIGHT'S MAIN EVENT :
March 3rd 2007
Madison Square Garden; New York, New York
World Wrestling Federation: The Montreal Fallout
New BTB. Check it out, eh?
Last edited by iMac; 12-22-2010 at
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