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Be The Booker
Being The Booker
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Join Date: Jun 2008
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Re: Being The Booker
Interesting looking show here, Wolfy. While there's a lot of intrigue surrounding the show thus far, what you've got announced for SmackDown! thus far actually looks damn good in terms of match quality. Surprised to see the BB/AMW rematch coming so soon, but that and London/Dinsmore should still both be great matches. With a lot of possibilities for what we can see from a lot of your upper carders too in Orton, Lesnar, Edge and Albright, along with the Anderson promo have me really excited.
I'm saddened to hear this may be your last show for awhile, but other things come first, obviously. I'm looking forward to this show when it goes up though all the same.
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Wolf Beast
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Six inches from a computer screen
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Re: Being The Booker
Friday Night Smackdown | May 25 2007 | Tampa FL
Still images from Judgment Day, with the commentary playing over them; a bloodied up Hulk Hogan defeating JBL, MVP getting himself disqualified against Carlito to add to Carlitos frustrations, then Paul London ending Brent Albrights seven month run as United States Champion.
And; Randy Orton - by hook or by crook - retaining the WWE Championship, eliminating all three challengers in the Fatal Four Way. Firstly taking advantage of a weakened RVD to put him back on the shelf, then double crossing Edge to eliminate him, before using a suspicious sledgehammer to defeat Brock Lesnar.
Opening Video
We open up inside the St. Pete Times Forum, with the fans looking excited, making noise, as we listen to Michael Cole intro the show.
Michael Cole:
St. Petes Time Forum in Tampa plays host to the fall out from Judgment Day tonight, and despite facing judge, jury and executioner this past Sunday, Randy Orton will arrive in Tampa tonight, STILL WWE Champion. Not only did Orton retain his title this past Sunday, but the Career Killer also eliminated ALL three challengers en route to retaining the title. Im Michael Cole, joined as always by Tazz, and tonight, were a little crowded at the broadcast position, because per request of the new WWE Commissioner Jesse Ventura, we are joined by none other than the former host of Superstars, Joey Styles.
Joey Styles:
Its an honour and a privilege to be sat here tonight gentlemen. This decision certainly caught me by surprise, but I plan on seizing the day, and doing all I can to add to the broadcast.
Well Joe, it took ya a heck of a long time to get to the WWE, but finally youre here, and its great t be calling action alongside ya. Welcome to the team.
Michael Cole:
(Glossing over the welcome)
Welcome to the team Joey, and while Judgment Day may have passed, and aftermath is here tonight, and tonight, the 2007 King of the Ring tournament continues, with TWO members of the New Wave beginning their campaigns; Ken Doane faces the veteran, Hardcore Holly, whilst Nick Dinsmore will be taking on, none other than the NEW United States Champion, and one of the favourites to go all the way in the King of the Ring tournament, PAUL LONDON!!! Ge-
Joey Styles:
What a collision that promises to be Michael. Paul London is on the roll of a lifetime right now, and Nick Dinsmore has A LOT to prove, with Randy Orton still far from impressed with his fellow New Wave members. Two fantastic young talents going at it in the King of the Ring tournament tonight.
And what of Brent Albright?? Youve both talked about Paul Londons current momentum, but what can we expect of the former United States Champion?? After seven months as the champ, just what frame of mind will Albright be in??
Michael Cole:
Well we will find out just how that loss has effected the former champion, as Albright teams with Charlie Haas against Chavo Guerrero and Super Crazy.
Joey Styles:
And not only that, but Arn Anderson will be giving an exclusive update on the condition of Rob Van Dam, following the former ECW Television Champions reoccurrence of severe head trauma this past Sunday at Judgment Day. The big question going into the Pay Per View was the condition of RVD, and unfortunately we got the answer none of us wanted.
Michael Cole:
Thats Rob Van Dam; former
WWE World
Champion, Joey. This isnt ECW.
Joey Styles:
Apologies. Old habits die hard.
Surprisingly, its the music of BATISTA that gets the show up and running, with the fans coming to their feet for The Animal, as he enters through the curtain, wearing a vest top, with jeans and boots - and of course, sunglasses indoors
Michael Cole:
Ever since his return to action, The Animal has been on a roll. Racking up the victories in impressive fashion, this past Sunday, Batista was the difference maker as he, Jeff Hardy and Finlay defeated the New Wave.
Wonder what could be on the mind of The Animal, Cole. Batista aint one for doin much talkin.
Joey Styles:
Having been watching from the outside, it appears to me that since his loss at WrestleMania to Brent Albright, Batista has raised his game. In the past, hes coasted along, but now, The Animal appears to be realising his potential.
Michael Cole:
Coasted?? With all due respect, Batista was taken under the wing of Triple H and Ric Flair. In that kind of company, you dont get to coast along.
Joey Styles:
You dont think so?? Youre entitled to your opinion, Michael, but the way I see it, Batista has the tools to be a World Champion. Randy Orton has been, and currently is the WWE Champion, thanks to be tutelage of the Nature Boy and Triple H. I dont see any other reason that Batista has not had the same distinction, other than the fact that he never grabbed the bull by the horns, like Orton.
You make a good point Joe, but Batista still has time on the clock to rectify that situation.
Batista takes a mic, and nods in approval at the fans response, before speaking up.
Im gonna make this real quick RANDY ORTON!!!
Mixed reaction from the rowdy fans, cheering for Batista calling Orton out, but booing at the mention of Orton.
I took apart your boys at Judgment Day and now I want the ring leader.
Batista pauses, and looks to the left, nodding at a shout from the fans, before looking into the hard camera again.
Randy, Ive waited too damn long for a genuine shot at the WWE Title and frankly, Im not gonna wait another damn minute!!!
Decent pop.
The way I see it, youve brushed aside all the other contenders on Smackdown. A lot of people might not agree with how youve done it, and Im one of them. But even I cant deny the fact that youve seen off every challenger so far. Chris Jericho? Gone. Rob Van Dam? Gone. Edge? Beaten. Brock Lesnar? Beaten.
Some heat from the fans for the rundown of beaten challengers. Batista stands still for a few moments, staring ahead, waiting patiently to speak, then does.
all gone by the wayside. Theyve all had their shot, one way or another. But what about me?? Thats right, Im still waitin. But if there is one guy on Smackdown that can wipe that look off of Ortons face youre looking at him!!
Looking into the camera, Dave rips his sunglasses off, showing the intensity in his eyes.
Randy, youve NEVER gotten the better of me. You didnt in the past, and you sure as hell wont in the future either!!
Im layin down the gauntlet RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW!!! I WANT A PIECE OF RANDY ORTON!!! I WANT THE W-W-E CH-
Batista is thrown off by the music of EDGE!! The Rated R Superstar storms onto the stage, looking as angst-ridden as ever.
Michael Cole:
Once again, this past Sunday, The Rated R Superstar had his lifetime ambition ripped from his grasp at Judgment Day, in what will surely be his last shot at the title for quite some time.
Joey Styles:
He had an entire year to cash in that Money in the Bank briefcase. But he waited, and waited, and in the end, wanted all the glory by cashing in at WrestleMania Twenty Three, and it backfired.
Maybe, but both of ygotta agree that Edge letting his guard down at Judgment Day was completely outta character. Normally, its Edge dishing out that kinda punishment. NEVER has he been on the receiving end.
Joey Styles:
Perhaps Tazz, Edge has gotten so wrapped up in becoming WWE Champion, to the point where hes losing focus on other aspects. On Sunday, Edge had complete tunnel vision, and it cost him. That desperation that drives the Rated R Superstar on, is arguably becoming the weakest link in his armour.
Edge walks around ringside, taking a mic, before hopping onto the apron, locking eyes with a calm Batista, with Edge shaking his head, before entering the squared circle. The music dies down, with Edge still staring at The Animal, and shaking his head.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, NO!!!! This- this isnt right. This isnt THIS ISNT FAIR!!
Edge attempts to keep his emotions in check, but struggles.
What- wh-
(Composes himself)
What makes you so special?? What makes you think you deserve a shot at the WWE title?? What?? Is it because you beat up the three stooges on Sunday??
Initial mixed reaction, descending into boos for Edge.
Is it because you couldnt win the United States Title?? Were you simply above that, huh?? Was the U.S title beneath you, big man???
Batista shakes his head at the behaviour of Edge.
Way off. As much as I wouldve loved to have been United States Champion, it never happened. And after having time off after WrestleMania, I decided to move on, freshen things up and change my goals
Dave walks up to Edge, and looks him dead in the eye.
And maybe its time you started to do the same.
Edge snarls, and runs his fingers through his hair, still trying to keep a lid on his temper.
The fact is Edge, as much of an honour it would be for me to have held the U.S Title Ive waited long enough to get my hands on the big one.
Edge shows a fake smile, before replying.
Well, Im very sorry to burst your bubble. Because its obvious to me that youre still a little unsure of how it works around here when it comes to title shots. But thats okay- thats okay. After all, youre not used to competing for championships.
Heat from the fans. Edge has a cocky grin on his face after that one, whilst Batista shows a smirk too.
Ysee, whilst youve been sitting around and
for your shot all this time, Ive been busting my ass, and breaking my neck
Edges smile drops, and looks seriously at Batista, with The Animal reciprocating the icy stare.
Youve went long enough without winning the big one, huh?? JUST HOW DO YOU THINK I FEEL!!!???
Edge gets in the face of Batista, eyes wide, looking on the edge of a meltdown.
Ive bust my ass, night in, night out, seven days a week, fifty two weeks a year, for over ten God damn years, and STILL I havent been given a genuine, one on one shot at the WWE Title.
Heat for Edge, as he continues to moan. Edge looks at the fans, and loses his cool with them, shouting at the fans.
Edge looks around the arena, repeating the phrase over and over - off mic - whilst Batista shakes his head. Edge then turns his attention to Batista.
Do you honestly- HONESTLY, think that Im gonna just stand idly by, and allow you to take MY title shot?? MY TITLE SHOT???
Edge shakes his head furiously.
Theres a line, and Im at the front Dave?? youre at the back of it.
Heat. Batista smirks for a second, as he brings the mic to his mouth.
Im at the back of the line?? Well, thats too bad
The smirk fades, and Dave gets serious again.
because Im forcing my way to the front!!
Pop for Batista.
And if you - or anybody else - wants to stop me Im standing right here!!
Big pop, as Batista has finished talking, and throws the mic down, challenging Edge to take him on. The fans get behind Dave, with Edge thinking it over but before he can come to a decision
The familiar music of Arn Anderson interrupts proceedings, with the GM quickly walking to the stage, and immediately calls for the music to be cut, wasting little time.
Arn Anderson:
Lets straighten this thing out here. Edge?? Son, you dont decide whose at the front or the back of any line when it comes to getting a shot at the WWE Title. Ysee, thats my job.
Small pop.
Arn Anderson:
And maybe Im jus gettin a little old in the tooth maybe Im gettin a little touch of Dementia but it feels like I hear the same things outta ya Edge week in, week out.
Another pop.
Arn Anderson:
Ya got screwed you were cheated you were wronged, overlooked, passed up, conned, duped
Anderson stops himself, and exhales in boredom. He shakes his head, then rubs his eyes, before starting again.
Arn Anderson:
Not once - NOT ONCE have you taken responsibility for your own short comings. Never ha-
Hey, just a second-
Arn Anderon:
Im talking now, kid. Put a sock in it.
Edge snarls, not liking being talked to like that by anyone. Arn puts his hand to the top of his head, as he speaks again.
Arn Anderson:
Ive kinda had it there. Edge, tnight, Im givin ya one more shot. You win?? Youve got Orton next week for the title.
Mixed response, with Edge nodding.
Arn Anderson:
However you lose?? Its the back o the line for you.
Pop, with Edges expression dropping. The Rated R Superstar doesnt like that caveat, with Anderson raising his hand, wanting to calm the audience.
Arn Anderson:
And jus before I forget, I guess youll need to know who your opponent is gonna be
The fans excitement rises again, with many knowing where this is going, with Edge looking at Batista, expecting whats coming.
Arn Anderson:
So lets make it official. Tonight, in the main event, with the winner facing Randy Orton next week for the WWE Title, itll be Edge one on one with BATISTA!!!
Big pop from the fans, getting the #1 Contenders match tonight. Anderson leaves the stage, as Edge and Batista remain in the ring, with Batista walking around Edge, trying to intimidate the Canadian. Edge looks to stand tall, refusing to wimp out to The Animal, with Dave stopping as he comes face to face with Edge again, and smiles at the Rated R Superstar, before brushing past, and exiting the ring.
Joey Styles:
Gentlemen, we have ourselves an incredible main event. A Number One Contenders Match between Edge and Batista??
Gonna be a Rocketbuster Joe!! High stakes main event tonight.
Michael Cole:
And the winner wont have to wait long to get his shot either - next week, Randy Orton will defend the WWE Championship against either Edge or Batista!!!
Joey Styles:
And how about the added stipulation, that if Edge loses, he falls to the back of the line. A loss for Edge tonight could totally derail his career ambition for the foreseeable future.
Michael Cole:
A must win situation for Edge tonight, absolutely. Ladies and Gentlemen, well be right back on Smackdown.
Commercial Break
We return with Americas Most Wanted on their way to the ring, where Booker T and Elijah Burke are waiting.
Michael Cole:
This past Sunday at Judgment Day, Americas Most Wanted successfully retained the WWE Tag Team Championships, but tonight, they have been challenged once again by Booker T and Elijah Burke. Tonight, the titles are NOT on the line, but a victory for the mix of youth and experience could well earn them a rematch at the champions.
Joey Styles:
A rookie mistake cost Elijah Burke and Booker T at Judgment Day, but up until that point, the titles looked to be in serious jeopardy. And on any given night, those two men could beat AMW, but if they want another shot at the gold, they HAVE to win tonight.
Match 1 | NON-TITLE MATCH:
Americas Most Wanted vs. Elijah Burke & Booker T
In a Judgment Day rematch, Harris tries to get the jump on Burke early, but Elijah is too quick for the Wildcat, and gets off to an impressive start, with neither Harris or Storm having an answer for the youthful Burke, who is out to make an impression tonight, after his mistake cost the team at Judgment Day. Booker then continues the good start for the aspiring challengers, keeping Harris and Storm under control, with the champions eventually taking a walk, looking to regroup, having been unable to get at their opponents at all.
And, after the team meeting, AMW pick it up a gear, and manage to get at Burke, once again preying on his inexperience, with a distraction from Harris on the apron allowing Storm to attack. The champions hammer down Eli, with Book growing concerned on the apron, as his protégé struggles. Just as Burke then looks to make a fight back, Harris - not the legal man - attacks him from behind, knocking him down with a clothesline to the neck. This forces Booker into action, with the former five time WCW Champion having seen enough, and charges into Harris, beating him into the corner, before dumping him out of the ring, and follows out himself. Meanwhile, in the ring, Storm sizes up Burke, then moves in for a DDT to finish him off, but ELIJAH SPINS OUT AND SHOCKS STORM ELIJAH EXPERIENCE CONNECTS!!! Burke makes a cover, 1...2...3!!!
Winners: Elijah Burke & Booker T @ 05:37
Its a massive confidence boosting win for Elijah Burke!!! The champions are beaten - albeit in a non title match - with Booker and Burke making their case for another shot at the gold, at some point down the road. Burke looks relieved to have made amends for his slip at Judgment Day, and is joined in the ring by a beaming Booker T, with the veteran giving his protégé a big hug, raising Burkes hand in victory.
Michael Cole:
Big win for Elijah Burke and Booker T!! Theyve picked up right where they left off before Judgment Day - getting the upper hand on AMW once again!!!
Joey Styles:
And given how impressive they were in the previous few weeks before Judgment Day, it wouldnt surprise me Michael, if this victory earned Booker T and Elijah Burke an immediate rematch with the champions!!
Michael Cole:
Arn Anderson is gonna have a big decision to make now. An impressive win for the team of youth and experience tonight.
Backstage, we then see three of the four New Wave members; Garrison Cade, Nick Dinsmore and Ken Doane, with Cade and Dinsmore offering Doane some last minute encouragement ahead of his match with Hardcore Holly in the King of the Ring tournament.
Michael Cole:
And there you see three quarters of the New Wave. Randy Orton we hear, has travelled to Tampa alone tonight. But coming up next, its an opportunity for Ken Doane to impress the WWE Champion, as he takes on Hardcore Holly in the opening round of the King of the Ring tournament. Join us when we come back!!!
Commercial Break
Clip of Bret Hart rolling up Bam Bam Bigelow to win the King of the Ring tournament in 1993.
Narrator: It has given the platform for champions to establish themselves.
Clip of Owen Hart being crowned King of the Ring in 1994, as we hear him yell over it.
Narrator: It has immortalized greats forever.
Clip of Stone Cold Steve Austin winning the 1996 King of the Ring tournament, with the sound bite over it.
Narrator: It ushered in the birth of a new attitude.
Clip of Triple H having his hand raised in 1997.
Narrator: Stars have been born.
Clip of Kurt Angle dropping to his knees in victory in 2000.
Narrator: Legends have been made.
Clip of Brock Lesnar having his hand raised in 2002, as we hear Paul Heymans voice over the top.
Narrator: Careers have skyrocketed.
Clips of Mister Kennedy with the crown last year, and Edge with his trophy in 2001
Narrator: The King of the Ring tournament has provided some of the most memorable moments in sports entertainment history, and on Saturday, June 23, 2007 the King of the Ring lends itself to another staple in the illustrious history of the WWE Saturday Nights Main Event.
Clips of current superstars, Shelton Benjamin, MVP, Matt Hardy, Jeff Hardy, Straight Edge, Brian Kendrick, Paul London, MNM, Carlito and Brent Albright.
Narrator: The year, the King of the Ring tournament climaxes on NBC, with quarter finals, semi finals and the grand final, on the most special edition of Saturday Nights Main Event in history!!!
Quick clips again of the prominent former winners.
Narrator: Which superstar will use the King of the Ring tournament to follow these legends, icons and immortals into the pantheon of greatness??
We return at ringside with Michael Cole, Joey Styles and Tazz, as Hardcore Holly waits in the ring, whilst Ken Doane makes his entrance
Michael Cole:
Well, the King of the Ring tournament has begun in earnest. So far, Umaga, Burchill, CM Punk and William Regal from Raw have advanced to the Sweet Sixteen, while over here on Friday nights, Charlie Haas and Finlay have won their first round matches.
Joey Styles:
And in just a moment, Ken Doane or Hardcore Holly will join them, whilst Nick Dinsmore and the new United States Champion Paul London will collide later this evening for a place in the second round too. Its really beginning to heat up now, gentlemen.
Absolutely. But my pick to win the whole thing; MVP, has yet to kick off his campaign. Watch out for that guy. Tazzs pick, you heard it here first.
Michael Cole:
Well, if we were to go on pure momentum, Paul London has got to be one of the hot favourites. A semi-finalist last year, Paul London knows what it takes to go far in the King of the Ring tournament.
Joey Styles:
Well, seeing as were all sticking our necks on the line here, I guess-
Michael Cole:
But whilst Paul London is riding a wave of momentum, you could argue that someone like Ken Doane; young, hungry and ultra talented, with a point to prove too, could surprise everyone and lift the crown. How big could that be for someone as young as Ken Doane??
Joey Styles:
(Slightly disgruntled)
Match 2 | KING OF THE RING TOURNAMENT | ROUND OF 32:
Hardcore Holly vs. Ken Doane
Despite Holly being ultra aggressive with the youngster in the early going, including half a dozen STIFF open handed chops in the corner, Doane weathers the storm, and takes control of the match, showing the potential that has seen him touted as a potential main event player at some point down the road. Holly briefly fights back late in the contest, but Doanes youth, hunger and desire is too much for the veteran, and after Holly survives the Doane-Nation, The Future finishes off his tough as nails opponent with the Sky High Leg Drop, and advances to the Sweet Sixteen of the 2007 King of the Ring tournament, with the elementary 1...2...3!!!
Winner: Ken Doane @ 04:42
Doane advances, and sets up a possible date with his fellow New Wave member, Nick Dinsmore, should he defeat the U.S Champion this evening. Cole, Styles and Tazz make reference to that possibility on commentary too, as Doane exits the ring, looking extremely pleased with his work tonight.
Michael Cole:
A huge win for Ken Doane tonight!! The twenty two year old advances to the second round of the King of the Ring tournament, and will find out his opponent later this evening, when the new United States Champion, Paul London, takes on Doanes fellow New Wave member, Nick Dinsmore.
Joey Styles:
And not only that, but tonights main event will determine a new number one contender. Batista and Edge will go one on one, with the winner getting a shot at Randy Orton, next week, right here on Smackdown.
Michael Cole:
But coming up next, Josh Mathews will speak with the Smackdown General Manager, Arn Anderson, concerning the condition of Rob Van Dam, who this past Sunday, was cruelly dispatched once again by Randy Orton, in the most callous of circumstances.
Its not something I wanna see again, Cole. I know we gotta show it, but before we do, it might be a good idea to warn the viewers its pretty sickening to watch
- RVD begins the match looking like the Van Dam of old, crisp and sharp, getting the better of Randy Orton.
- Quickly, there are warning signs, with RVD slowing down, looking less than the 100% he appeared moments earlier.
- Then, Orton reverses an attempted whip on the outside, and RVD runs head first into the ring post.
- The fans hush, with RVD slumping to the floor; not moving.
- Orton then drags Van Dam back inside, with soundbites from Cole and Tazz, who ponder whether Nick Patrick should pull the former champion from the match before suffering permanent damage.
- Then, despite being able to defeat RVD there and then if he wanted, Orton decides to purposely injure Van Dam, placing him on the ropes delivering the sickening elevated DDT.
- Orton eliminates Van Dam with ease and shows NO remorse.
- Footage of Van Dam being loaded onto a stretcher, and driven out of the arena in an ambulance.
Commercial Break
We return, with Josh Mathews standing by with Smackdown GM, Arn Anderson, who has his head bowed.
Josh Mathews:
Arn Anderson, this past Sunday, we witnessed Rob Van Dam - clearly far from one hundred per cent - was brutally eliminated from the Fatal Four Way WWE Championship match at the hands of Randy Orton. The last we saw of RVD was the former WWE Champion being driven from the arena in an ambulance. Arn, I believe you have an update on his condition??
Anderson, head still down, exhales. He raises his head, and nods.
Arn Anderson:
Yeah and Im afraid it aint good news, kid. Rob Van Dam suffered further head trauma at Judgment Day. Everyone knew it was a risk, we all knew Van Dam might not be a hundred per cent going in and now its obvious he was far from a hundred per cent. Perhaps though, the kids injuries mightnt have been so bad, had he not had his skull dropped onto the canvas from the second rope. Anyone that watched Judgment Day on Pay Per View wouldve saw Van Dam already out of it before Orton delivered that DDT. Orton though, wanted to send a message. I guess he felt he had to take it a little step further, and punish Rob for having the audacity to come back and do what he loves.
Anderson looks down again, before looking up, and to the left, collecting his thoughts, before speaking to Josh again.
Arn Anderson:
But as callous as Ortons actions were, at the end of the day, he cant be held accountable. Sure, Orton done the damage, but the blame for what happened to Van Dam on Sunday rests solely with me. It was my decision to allow his request for him to compete, it was my decision to ignore doctors advice Im to blame.
Anderson rubs his head, showing the strain.
Arn Anderson:
Josh, Ive allowed my hatred for Randy Orton to consume me, and force my actions. I was caught up in dishing out revenge to Orton, that against my better judgment, I rushed Rob Van Dam back to action and I stacked the deck against Orton at Judgment Day by putting together a fatal four way elimination match Josh, I abused my power.
Mathews looks rather uncomfortable at the revelations, whilst Double A shakes his head at his own actions.
Arn Anderson:
Josh, I was handed one of the most important jobs in this company. I was handed the reigns to Friday Night Smackdown, with the sole purpose of bringing order, after Paul Heyman abused his power for his own motives. But now, Im no better than that slimy grease ball. If anything, Im worse. At least Heyman flaunted his actions, he didnt try to play it straight. I did. I tried to convince myself that what I was doing was the right thing.
Arn smirks, but still shakes his head, before looking at the interviewer.
Arn Anderson:
Well karmas a bitch, aint it son?? Because I got exactly what I deserved. By hook or crook, Orton survived the fatal four way; heck, the little sonnuva bitch eliminated all three guys. And worst of all, Rob Van Dam is out of action again possibly for good. And thats on my head. Thats something Ive gotta live with.
The GM pauses, looking to the heavens, before speaking again.
Arn Anderson:
And as a result of what happened to RVD, Ive had ta come to a decision. And it wasnt easy, but for his own good - for my own good - Ive had ta medically suspend Rob Van Dam
Heat from the fans.
Arn Anderson:
After what happened at Judgment Day, I had no choice. I cant allow that ta happen ta Rob, or anybody on the Smackdown roster. As much as it pains me to say it; Rob Van Dam wont be in a WWE ring until he is given a full bill o health.
More heat.
Josh Mathews:
Well Arn, I appreciate your honesty, and Im sure I speak for the Smackdown audience too when I say that, but may I just as-
The GM stops Josh.
Arn Anderson:
No more questions tonight, Josh, huh?
Looking worn down, the almost frail-like GM motions to Josh to end the interview, before walking off, ending the interview.
Back to ringside
Joey Styles:
A sad, sad night for professional wrestling.
Michael Cole:
Indeed, Rob Van Dam, one of the leading
sports entertainers
in recent years, could well be facing a prolonged lay off, and quite possibly, sadly, a permanent one.
Such a yknow, I cant find the words for it. Weve all got to know RVD over the years, whether it was in ECW or here in the WWE, and we all know that Van Dam loves nothing more than to come out here, and do his thing. Wrestling has been his life, he loves to put on a show. I just hope we havent seen him for the last time.
Michael Cole:
And right at the peak of his career too. Rob Van Dam just two months ago, was the WWE Champion. Its incredibly sad to think that he may never get the chance to hold the title again.
Joey Styles:
An entire generation of fans have grown up with RVD, he was given the moniker Mister Pay Per View in ECW, simply because every single match he ever wrestled was worth paying to see. He was called The whole damn show, although it was something a little more than damn in the past. And it wasnt a fancy tag to bestow upon him. He really was. If Van Dam is to be forced into retirement well itll be a sad day for any wrestling fan.
Michael Cole:
And while its incredibly sad to think that well never call another match with Rob Van Dam, another point that needs to be discussed here is the revelation from Arn Anderson that he purposely tried to stack the deck against Randy Orton at Judgment Day. The General Manager whose duty it is to be impartial, has admitted that he has been anything but in recent weeks.
Ive gotta be honest, as big of a deal that is. As wrong as Arn has been to do that, Im finding it pretty hard to think about anything other than RVD at this point.
Joey Styles:
Much like Tazz, Michael, the bigger picture right now is a mans career has been potentially ended. Im sure there will be repercussions for Arn Anderson down the road, because what hes done was wrong, but honestly?? I think thats for discussion at another time.
Suddenly, the arena comes alive, as the NEW United States Champion, Paul London steps onto the stage, smiling broadly, proudly showing off his newly won gold, wrapped around his waist.
Michael Cole:
Well guys, I dont want to sound heartless, but this show has got to go on. Im sure RVD would agree with me on that. Right now, were looking at the man that ended Brent Albrights incredible seven month run as the U.S Champion.
I guess youre right, Cole. I mean, after what Paul London accomplished on Sunday, he deserves all the praise hes got. It was no mean feat to end the run Brent Albright had with that belt.
Joey Styles:
A true war on Sunday night, between London and Albright. It was simply two men going to war, for the sole purpose of winning a highly coveted championship, and on Sunday night, the better man won. Having sat down for a one to one interview with London two weeks ago, I know how much that championship will mean to the Golden Boy. But how much did that victory take out of London, gentlemen??
Thats a heck of a point, Joe, because Nick Dinsmore aint no slouch. If London is suffering any kinda hangover from that draining, damn near thirty minute classic at Judgment Day, Dinsmore is gonna take advantage.
London waits in the ring, with a mic in hand, wanting to say something before the match begins.
Paul London:
Yknow, real quick, I just wanna get something off my chest before this match.
With a smile, London sets himself.
Paul London:
Ive just had the most incredible week of my life, guys. I always believed that I
be the United States Champion. I always knew I had what it took to win the title but even now, I still feel like Im living in a dream.
The Golden Boy takes a look at the belt, still proudly smiling.
Paul London:
On Sunday at Judgment Day, Brent Albright and I went to war. We went back and forth, traded shots, dug down deep - more than once - sacrificed our own bodies all for this.
London raises the title, with the fans giving him a nice pop.
Paul London:
At one point, I was trapped in the Crowbar for what seemed like an eternity. The ligaments in my arms were snapping, the bones were cracking, and the joints were separating but not once did submitting cross my mind.
Paul London:
Not once did I think of giving it in. It was never a case of living to fight another day. As far as I was concerned, there was no tomorrow, Sunday truly was my Judgment Day. I wouldve honestly rather have left my arm in this ring on Sunday, than tap out to Brent Albright. Submitting wasnt an option. After all the trials, and all the tribulations I went through to get to that point it was now or never do or die. And I did. Im standing here now, the NEW United States Champion!!!
Another pop.
Paul London:
But right now as unpopular as it might be, I want to give Brent Albright credit.
Heat. London raises his hand to calm the fans, before speaking.
Paul London:
Hey, hes not my favourite guy either. But to Albrights credit, he held this title for seven months. And he never shirked one challenge. Big or small, fast or slow, Brent Albright took on all comers. Even though I dont agree with some of his methods, it cant be argued that time and time again, he overcame the odds. To do that for seven months is pretty damn impressive if you ask me.
Small bit of appreciation for Albright.
Paul London:
Brent Albright held this championship with pride and honour, and believe me, Imma do the exact same. Ive worked my butt off to win the U.S Title, and I plan on enjoying every single second.
Paul London:
So, like Brent Albright, I wont duck ANY challenger. I might not hold this baby for seven months like he did heck, it might not even be seven weeks. But no matter how long I can hold onto the title, whether its seven days, weeks, or months, Ill defend it with honour. Whatever size, whatever shape, whatever style, Ill face whoever is put in front of me.
Respectful pop for London, with the fans starting a LONDON chant in some sections.
Paul London:
And as lame as it might sound, I want to thank each and every single one of you that have stuck by me over these last few years whilst Ive scratched and clawed my way up the ladder. And right now, I wanna tell you all - IM JUST GETTING STARTED!!!
Big pop.
Paul London:
The United States Championship is huge but Ive got one more goal. And by winning this title, Ive now got the belief that I CAN reach up one more rung and I CAN become the W-W-E CHAMPION!!!
London nods, showing his true belief.
Paul London:
And it would give me the greatest of pleasure to take the WWE title from Randy Orton.
Heat for the mention of Orton.
Paul London:
Randy Rob Van Dam has been like a bigger brother to me this past year. Hes helped me along, given me guidance, advice, and been there any time I needed someone to talk to. Heck, RVD has been one of my inspirations to chase my dreams.
Getting serious, London takes a moment to compose himself.
Paul London:
What you did to Rob at WrestleMania was out of line. It was too much. But what you did to him at Judgment Day?? It was sick. Two months ago when you arrived here on Smackdown, I told ya youd have a locker room gunnin for ya and that hasnt changed only now?? Now Randy, now that Rob might never return?? Theres a locker room out of revenge youve got a locker room thats lookin for blood.
The camera goes in for an extreme close up.
Paul London:
want to be the one that gets it.
The camera stays on London for a few moments, as he intensely looks on, before
Londons upcoming opponent - and Randy Ortons New Wave brethren - Nick Dinsmore makes his entrance, as we cut to a commercial, ahead of this KOTR first round match up.
Commercial Break
Match 3 | KING OF THE RING TOURNAMENT | ROUND OF 32:
Paul London vs. Nick Dinsmore
Wisely, Dinsmore quickly utilises his power advantage, and out muscles the U.S champion in the early going. After being hurled into the corner again, London takes a moment to rethink his game plan, as Dinsmore taunts him. London then looks to engage with The Prodigy once more, but as Dinsmore shoots in for the collar and elbow; London slips free, and catches him with an arm drag instead. London quickens the pace, landing with an array of dropkicks and dropsaults, that have Dinsmore on the hop, all ends up.
Dinsmore tries to compose himself, and get back into the dominant position, but again, the U.S Champion is too quick, and has Dinsmore chasing shadows, surprising him with a succession of cradles and roll ups, which really frustrate the New Wave member, who eventually rolls out of the ring, kicking over the steel steps in fury, unable to get a hold of the Golden Boy. London, riding a wave of momentum, rolls the dice, and takes a risk, WITH A TOPE THROUGH THE ROPES - BUT DINSMORE DIVES OUT OF THE WAY!!! London crashes and burns, and INSTANTLY Dinsmore is on him!!
Dinsmore hammers London down on the outside, focusing on the head, with blow after blow to the U.S Champ, who could well be concussed after the tope gone wrong moments ago. Dinsmore continues to rough up London on the outside, rolling in and out of the ring to break the count, before ramming London - back first - into the ring post, with Londons head bouncing off the post. Dinsmore continues to onslaught, throwing the Golden Boy onto his shoulders, and LAWNDARTS London into the post, causing further problems to the head!!
Eventually, The Prodigy brings it back inside, and continues the beating, with London on spaghetti legs, but digging deep, and surviving numerous pin attempts from his determined opponent. As the match wears on, Dinsmore becomes more frustrated at being unable to put the U.S Champ away, and as the frustration grows, Dinsmore allows London to stage a fight back!!
London begins to rock Dinsmore, and trades shots with The Prodigy, but Dinsmore stops London momentarily with a knee to the gut BEFORE LONDON REPLIES WITH A SUDDEN ENZIGURI!!! London drops into the cover, 1...2...NO!!! The kick out flattens the fans, with London wincing, having felt he couldve stolen the win with the surprise kick. London slowly reaches his feet, and from his standing position - GOES FOR THE SHOOTING STAR - BUT DINSMORE ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY!!! London crashes off the canvas, with Dinsmore instantly in, with a roll through 1...2...NO!!!
Dinsmore smacks the canvas in disbelief, but quickly gets up, charging London into the corner, going to work again with shots to the head, before looking for an Irish whip across the ring to the opposite corner - but LONDON PUSHES HIMSELF UP IN THE CORNER, hoping for Dinsmore to follow under but he doesnt, and as London drops back down, Dinsmore is behind him AND DELIVERS A SICK, SUDDEN GERMAN SUPLEX!!! He makes the cover, 1...2...NO!!! London refuses to lay down, as the frustration continues to build for Dinsmore.
The Prodigy drags The Golden Boy up to his feet now AND LONDON EXPLODES!! The U.S Champ finds another gear, and launches a succession of blistering, wild, rights and lefts at all kinds of angles, with Dinsmore trying to cover up to block them, as London now runs off the ropes AND STRAIGHT INTO A SLEEPER!!! London is caught, and with his head troubles throughout the match, the sleeper hold COULD prove to be fatal to his KOTR aspirations.
London struggles, trying to fight free but soon drops to a knee and then to the canvas, with the hold locked in tight. The referee checks the arm of the U.S Champ, once, twice and both times the arm drops. Third time LONDON KEEPS IT IN THE AIR!!! With the fans getting behind him, London feeds off the adrenaline, and battles back - to a knee - to his feet - and then elbow after elbow, desperately trying to break free AND EVENTUALLY DOES!!!
The two men now trade blows in the middle of the ring, but despite Londons big fight back to break the sleeper, Dinsmore wins the fist fight, and eventually runs through his opponent with a vicious clothesline!!! Still though, its good enough ONLY for a two count, with Dinsmore shaking his head, asking out loud What do I have to do?? He picks London up again, and fires him off the ropes once more BUT LONDON FLIES BACK WITH A CROSS BODY!!! He doesnt go for the cover, but instead stumbles back to his feet, and into the corner digging deep AND CLIMBS TO THE TOP ROPE!!!
BUT HE TOOK TOO LONG!!! Dinsmore is up, and launches himself into the corner, stopping London, and climbs up with him, looking to deliver a superplex BUT LONDON BLOCKS!!! AND A SECOND TIME!!! The U.S Champion then fights back, out of the front face lock position AND EVENTUALLY SHOVES HIS OPPONENT OFF!!! London hasnt a second to spare, and instantly readies himself AND DELIVERS THE 450 SPLASH!!!!! He sells his ribs, and head injuries too for a moment, before getting the lateral press 1...2...3!!!!!
Winner: Paul London @ 13:44
Once again, Paul London is able to see off a highly talented opponent, and progresses to the sweet sixteen stage of the King of the Ring tournament.
Joey Styles:
Is there anybody in the entire WWE on a hotter streak right now, than this man, Paul London?? At this point, The Golden Boy is on the run of his life!! Hes won the U.S Title, and tonight, hes overcome a very game Nick Dinsmore.
Its great to see this kid doin so well, Joe. Paul London has given his all over the last couple of years, and finally, its all really coming together for him.
Michael Cole:
For so long, he was a nearly man. Final four in the Royal Rumble, inches from the Money in the Bank briefcase, it just seemed like Paul London was destined to be in that bracket, but now, with the United States Championship around his waist, he has a new found confidence. And now, seemingly, the sky is the limit for this kid!!
Joey Styles:
And Paul London isnt going to settle with what hes got either. Hes shown tonight that hes got the desire to become the King of the Ring, and hes made it clear that he wants a crack at the WWE Championship too!!
Watch this space, guys. This kid means business.
Commercial Break
We return from the commercial with the caption During the commercials, and see Nick Dinsmore walking behind the curtain to the gorilla position, and is met by Ken Doane and Garrison Cade. Cade puts a hand on Nicks shoulder.
Garrison Cade:
Tough break, Nick. But dont let it get ya down, that thing coulda went either way out there. Thats how close it was.
Doane then pats Dinsmore on the back.
Ken Doane:
Therell be more opportunities man, dont be too downhearted.
Dinsmore nods, but does look disappointed by the loss. The trio begin to walk on, when the stop, seeing RANDY ORTON.
The WWE Champion stands in front of them, title belt over his shoulder, staring straight at Nick Dinsmore, before turning his focus to Ken Doane, extending his hand.
Randy Orton:
Feeling slightly awkward, Doane shakes Ortons hand.
Ken Doane:
Uhm, thanks, Randy.
Ortons expression doesnt change, as he ends the handshake.
Randy Orton:
Its just nice to see someone step up to the mark.
Orton brushes past, not acknowledging Cade or Dinsmore - both already eliminated from the King of the Ring tournament - and the WWE Champion is heard to speaking to a random worker Cue up my music, as he walks toward the curtain.
The trio of Doane, Cade and Dinsmore just watch on, with Cade shaking his head, looking fed up, whilst Dinsmore looks furious, and Doane simply looks awkward, knowing the other two have been disrespected by Orton, whilst he has been complimented.
Back live in the arena
Randy Orton steps onto the stage, getting vociferous heat from the fans.
Michael Cole:
On Sunday night at Judgment Day, that man, Randy Orton pulled off an incredible feat. On one night, Orton defeated RVD, Edge and Brock Lesnar. Three pin fall victories over the three top contenders, Randy Orton eliminated ALL his competition.
Joey Styles:
As impressive as it sounds though, lets discuss it a little further. First off, Van Dam was far from healthy. He then formed an alliance with Edge, only to backstab him, and then, peculiarly, he defeated Lesnar with a sledgehammer. An oddly placed sledgehammer at that, which many people, including myself, believe was planted by Triple H.
Michael Cole:
Well I know Tazz shares that belief, but would Triple H, given his history with Orton, even want to help the WWE Champion, regardless of his feelings for Lesnar??
I think he would Cole. The Game and Orton have had their differences, but at the same time, I think Triple H would be proud to see how far Orton has come. With Lesnar, its flat out hatred.
Michael Cole:
Its all hearsay though. We dont even know IF that sledgehammer was planted by The Game, or whether it was simply a coincidence that it was Ortons weapon of choice.
Joey Styles:
I just find it a little too convenient to be a coincidence.
The music dies down, with Orton in the ring, holding the mic, then pulling it down to listen to the boos of the fans, who heckle the WWE Champion. Orton patiently waits for the fans to simmer down, before speaking.
Randy Orton:
Sometimes in life, you get what you deserve.
Randy Orton:
Rob Van Dam?? For having the sheer audacity to come back, he got exactly what he deserved. RVD should NEVER have come back.
Heat again.
Randy Orton:
Brock Lesnar?? After getting a shot at the WWE Championship for doing ab-so-lutely
he got what he deserved.
More boos from the fans, but Orton continues.
Randy Orton:
And now I hear that little Paul London is chasing my tail.
Pop for the mention of London.
Randy Orton:
Word of warning, Paul. Stay were you are. On Sunday, Ill admit, you got what you deserved. You fought tooth and nail for the United States Champion, and you earned it but you dare try and pick a fight with me??
Orton pauses.
Randy Orton:
Then the only thing youll be doing to honour Rob Van Dam, is join him on the scrap heap.
Massive heat.
Randy Orton:
Like I said, sometimes in life you get what you deserve. Paul London, you deserve to be United States Champion. And if you decide to take up an issue with me, youll be getting what you deserve a KICK to the skull!!!
Ungodly heat, as Orton narrows his eyes, sternly sending his message.
Randy Orton:
But while RVD, Lesnar and London got what they deserved it seems not everyone gets what they deserve. Look at Edge-
Heat for the mention of Edge.
Randy Orton:
And look at Batista-
Randy Orton:
What exactly have they done to earn the chance to face me next week?? Edge?? He was eliminated
by me
at Judgment Day. He lost at WrestleMania. Hes had more than enough chances to become WWE Champion, and hes blown it EVERY SINGLE TIME!!!
Orton looks a little irritated by Edge getting another chance to get a title shot.
Randy Orton:
And Batista?? Come on, Dave Batista?? Is that the best we have to offer on Smackdown?? The most use Big Dave has ever been, was whenever he carried my bags in Evolution.
Heat from the fans.
Randy Orton:
Batista has done NOTHING to warrant a title shot. Neither has Edge neither of them deserve the chance to challenge for this.
Orton motions to the belt.
Randy Orton:
I dont deserve that. I dont deserve to be disrespected by being expected to defend the WWE title against either one of them. But as for this past Sunday did I get what I deserved??
Orton smirks, and peeks down at the title over his shoulder.
Randy Orton:
After going through hell at Judgment Day I got what I deserved. I retained my WWE Championship.
Again, the fans show their hatred for Orton, but the champion shrugs it off.
Randy Orton:
And tonight, it seems my accusations against Arn Anderson have been vindicated.
Orton smirks, feeling ever so good about himself.
Randy Orton:
From the moment I came to Smackdown, Arn Anderson has been stacking the deck against me. Our General Manager has allowed his dislike of me to cloud his judgment. Arn Anderson has made it his personal goal to get
off my shoulder by any means necessary.
Heat again.
Randy Orton:
After months of my accusations against our supposedly impartial General Manager falling on deaf ears I think you people owe me an apology.
More heckles from the fans, as Orton shakes his head, showing the slightest hint of a smile.
Randy Orton:
But I wont hold my breath.
Orton smirks, before getting the serious face back on.
Randy Orton:
But what I will say is this after tonights confession, Arn Andersons position as General Manager is now surely
Last year, Ric Flair was removed as General Manager of Raw for not being impartial, six months ago, Paul Heyman was ousted for abusing his power, and just last month, Eric Bischoff was brought back under the condition he remained impartial I mean, what kind of impression would Jesse Ventura be making as the new Commissioner if he allowed Arn Anderson to continue in power??
Knowing hes doing a good job of stirring the pot, Orton devilishly looks to the fans.
Randy Orton:
Because of Arn Anderson, TWO careers are already over. Chris Jericho and Rob Van Dam are NEVER coming back, and its on his head. Jesse Ventura how many more careers are you going to allow to be ruined before you give Arn Anderson his marching orders??
Orton smiles, with the fans against him, but Orton knows exactly what hes doing, trying to push Anderson out of power, and knowing hes got a great case to do so.
Ortons expression suddenly changes, and the fans come alive, with the music of Brock Lesnar filling the St. Petes Time Forum. Ortons eyebrows narrow, and a look of concern is etched on the champions face, as he moves to the ropes, expecting the appearance of Brock Lesnar and the fans BOOM as LESNAR SLIPS IN FROM THE BACK OF THE RING!!!
Lesnar waits, as Orton continues to look up the ramp, expecting Lesnar to come walking out but eventually looks around and into the path of Lesnar WHO SCOOPS HIM UP F5!!!
The fans go BERSERK as Lesnar drills the WWE Champion!!! The Iron Man rolls back out of the ring, making a beeline for the timekeepers table, grabbing a steel chair, and takes it back into the ring, opening it up, and sitting it over the throat of Orton, sitting down on it, trapping the champion!!! Lesnar, now with the microphone Orton was using, looks down at Orton, slapping him to bring him around, before speaking.
Brock Lesnar:
Orton, dont for a second be thinking I
to attack you from behind but I just knew if I came charging down that ramp, youd hightail it outta here before I could even get close.
Orton tries to struggle free, choking from the chair squeezing down on his throat, but Lesnar shows no compassion.
Brock Lesnar:
I got one question Orton, and I want the truth did he set it up??
Orton chokes, grimacing, struggling to breath.
Brock Lesnar:
Lesnar puts the mic to Ortons mouth, wanting an answer, as Orton manages to get a few words out.
Randy Orton:
Whh- *COUGH* Wh- what??
The champion continues to choke.
Brock Lesnar:
Orton kicks his legs, really struggling to breathe now.
Brock Lesnar:
Orton, unable to speak, seems to nod, as if to say yes. Lesnar notices, and stands up, lifting the chair, and chucking it away, before kneeling down, with Orton turning over, gasping for air.
Brock Lesnar:
I want to hear it. Did Triple H set it up?? Did he plant the sledgehammer?? Did he tell you to use it??
Orton, on his knees, still struggling to breathe, nods again.
Brock Lesnar:
Sighing, Orton looks away, before coughing again. He then turns to the mic, and up at Lesnar.
Randy Orton:
Orton, looking castrated after being humiliated by Lesnar, looks away after admitting, whilst Lesnar looks ready to explode.
Lesnar lifts the mic to his mouth, looking toward the hard camera.
Brock Lesnar:
Obviously, you didnt get enough at WrestleMania. HUNTER!! COME OUTTA THE HOLE YOURE HIDIN IN, AND FACE MY LIKE A MAN!!!!
Pop from the fans.
Brock Lesnar:
The fans pop again, with some trying to start a LESNAR chant.
Brock Lesnar:
Lesnar throws the mic down, and takes a look down at Orton, who is still trying to catch his breath, as Brock exits the ring.
Michael Cole:
Brock Lesnar has thrown down the gauntlet!!! Triple H WAS behind the sledgehammer at Judgment Day, and now, Brock Lesnar wants revenge in the worst possible way.
Joey Styles:
The Cerebral Assassin may well regret the day he hatched the plan to screw Brock Lesnar out of the WWE title.
Guys, Brock Lesnar is on the warpath God help the next guy to get in his way.
Michael Cole:
Well Randy Orton cant count himself lucky, but later tonight, hell find out who will be his next challenger. Can Edge get himself another crack at the WWE Title?? Or will Batista earn the shot to face his former Evolution team mate?? Well find out, later tonight.
We see Lesnar storm out, past the curtain, whilst in the ring, Orton tries to collect himself, as we cut to a commercial.
Commercial Break
Backstage, we return and see the United States Champion, Paul London, walking through the backstage area, being congratulated by random workers. London continues to walk, smiling at well wishers etc, before hearing a voice.
Paul London, as I live and breathe.
London looks around and its BRIAN KENDRICK. The Cruiserweight Champion grins at London, and approaches him.
Brian Kendrick:
Its good to see that youve managed to carve out a career for yourself. I was worried you mightve faded into the background, yknow?? Kinda in my shadow.
Kendrick motions to the CW title on his shoulder. London looks a little awkward, and shrugs, taking the comment as a congratulations - a pretty poor one at that.
Paul London:
Uh, thanks??
Brian Kendrick:
Hey- you dont have to thank me, bud. As much as an inspiration I know Ive been to you, dont be feelin like youve gotta dedicate your win to me.
Awkward silence, with Kendrick seemingly expecting London to say he will dedicate his win to him.
Brian Kendrick:
In a way, Im kinda glad you decided to take yourself away from the Cruiserweight division, Paul. At least this way, you can still have some level of success.
Gobsmacked, London is speechless, as Kendrick puts a hand up to correct himself, laughing.
Brian Kendrick:
I didnt mean it like that. I just meant, well, at the minute, Im on fire. Im pretty much untouchable at the minute, and I wouldnt want you to be jealous of my success, yknow?? I mean, my other home boy, Chavito?? My success has driven us apart, due to his jealousy.
London nods, not bothering to argue with the ego-driven Kendrick.
Brian Kendrick:
But hey, Im not ready to turn my back on the guy just yet. Hes got a match later, and Im gonna show him my support. And yo, if you ever need some advice, or help, Im a phone call away, bro.
The U.S Champ scratches his head.
Paul London:
Well yeah I kinda tried that last month when I needed a tag team partner, remember??
Brian Kendrick:
Yeah, and I was there for ya, right??
Paul London:
Uh, not really. Ya blew me off.
The CW Champ laughs, waving a hand at London.
Brian Kendrick:
Oh Paul, you an your goofy jokes. Thats what I love about you bro.
Kendrick ruffles Londons hair, like London was a little kid.
Brian Kendrick:
Anyway, I cant stop and chat like this,
(London mouths; You stopped to talk to me)
the Cruiserweight Champ is a busy guy. But I can handle it. Hey, maybe you should watch out. Double gold
look good on me.
London slowly nods, taken aback by the brazen attitude of Kendrick. Its another awkward silence between the pair, before Kendrick bursts out laughing.
Brian Kendrick:
Ahhh, your face dude!!! Nah, dont you worry Paul, Ill let ya have your glory. Keep in touch, bud.
Kendrick then walks on, strutting down the hallway, whilst Paul London simply shakes his head, wondering just what has become of his former friend.
And backstage, we see Kristal Marshall standing by, flanked by Brent Albright and Charlie Haas.
Kristal Marshall:
Gentlemen, in just a few moments time, you will team together to face Chavo Guerrero and Super Crazy. But Brent, after seven months as the United States Champion, how has the loss you suffered to Paul London this past Sunday at Judgment Day affected you mentally??
Albright, deadly serious, takes a few moments to respond.
Brent Albright:
They say All good things must come to an end. I dont like that saying though. Why must all good things come to an end?? Hmm?? It took me a few days to realise Kristal, but Ive worked it out. Ysee as good as it was to be the U.S Champion for seven months, at the end of the day, being United States Champion is not the be all, end all for Brent Albright. No, no, no. Losing the U.S title has helped me realise that I can go even further.
Albright raises his hands.
Brent Albright:
This aint a knock on Paul London either. That kid fought the fight of his life at Judgment Day, and on the night, he got the better of me. On another night, in a different town it couldve been oh so different. But Im not one to dwell on the past. Me?? Like Charlie here, I prefer to look to the future
Haas nods.
Brent Albright:
Sure, being the United States Champion meant everything to me. And one day, chances are, given my talent and ability, Ill be the U.S Champion once again. But for now, I-
got a new goal. To become the 2007 King of the Ring.
Heat in the background.
Brent Albright:
Ysee, for one of us, becoming King of the Ring opens the doors to all kinds of possibilities. Look at what it did for Steve Austin, Triple H and Kurt Angle Kristal it can and it WILL do the same for either Charlie or myself.
Haas smiles, as Brent passes the mic over.
Charlie Haas:
You see Kristal, Brent and I have an understanding. Were the very best in the business. Whether its together as a team, or out on our own, we are, as weve stated before
The Master Craftsmen.
Haas and Albright smile to each other, and nod in agreement.
Charlie Haas:
And the King of the Ring tournament is designed to separate the wheat from the chaff. Which in all likelihood Kristal, means that due to the draw, Brent and myself will be meeting in the semi-finals. And, where other friendships would fall by the wayside ours will simply be put on hold. Brent and I share a common bond, and that bond is competition. Itll be an honour for both myself and Brent to compete against one another, the two finest wrestlers - not only on Smackdown - but in the entire WWE.
Albright smiles, agreeing with the sentiment.
Charlie Haas:
In just a few moments Kristal, Brent Albright here, is gonna put his U.S title loss behind him, and Im gonna remind the audience of just how good I am, when he and I dismantle Chavo Guerrero and Super Crazy. Tonight, youll see a showcase in excellence. A showcase of wrestling. A showcase of the Master Craftsmen.
The duo nod at one another, before walking off the set, with Kristal watching on as they leave.
Commercial Break
Match 4:
Chavo Guerrero & Super Crazy vs. Brent Albright & Charlie Haas
Despite the outcome being seemingly predictable, Chavo and Crazy are more than a match for the self proclaimed Master Craftsmen, causing problems with their high flying antics. Chavo even incorporates a little of the Lying, Cheating and Stealing of old to try and get one over on Albright and Haas. The heel tandem though are simply too much, and despite the best efforts of Chavo and Crazy, it seems to be simply a matter of time, as Super Crazy is singled out, with Albright and Haas showing no signs of slipping up to allow a hot tag.
And, with Chavo looking to make a desperate tag and take the pressure off his partner we see the entrance of the WWE Cruiserweight Champion; Brian Kendrick. The fans give his appearance a lot of heat - confirming what they now think of him - as he struts down the aisle, with Guerrero distracted by his presence. Kendrick makes his way to the apron, slamming the mat, trying to urge Super Crazy on, and looking to Chavo, telling him to help his partner.
Guerrero takes umbrage with Kendrick, and shouts at the champion to go away, asking him why hes even here, with Kendrick replying Im here to help my friend, pointing to the struggling Super Crazy, before adding Because youre not doing a great job of it. That sets Chavo off, and Guerrero hops off the apron, giving chase to Kendrick, who scarpers back up the aisle, with Chavo warning him off. Meanwhile though, in the ring BRENT ALBRIGHT APPLIES THE CROWBAR and with no one to help him break the hold SUPER CRAZY QUICKLY TAPS!!
Winners: Brent Albright & Charlie Haas @ 06:13
Rebound victory for Brent Albright, as he attempts to pick up steam after his loss at Judgment Day, and he is joined by Charlie Haas who slaps Brents chest, giving him encouragement as they have their arms raised in victory. On the aisle, Chavo has his hands on his head, realising his own issues with Kendrick just cost his partner the match.
Backstage, we see the dishevelled WWE Champion walking through the back, as if looking for someone. Orton then grabs a random worker by the shirt, pinning him up against the wall.
Randy Orton:
Where are they?? The rest of the New Wave?? Have you seen them??
The poor guy looks shit scared, quickly shaking his head. Orton slams the wall, letting the worker go, and continues to walk, and sees Josh Mathews, grabbing him from behind and turns him around, grabbing him by the shirt.
Randy Orton:
What about you?? You seen Ken, or Nick, or Cade?? Huh??
Josh, taken aback, blurts out his answer quickly.
Josh Mathews:
Randy, they left about fifteen minutes ago. They got packed up, and drove off in Dinsmores rental car.
Ortons eyes narrow, working out that they couldve saved him from being attacked by Brock Lesnar. He lets go of Mathews, before leaning his hands against the wall, and speaks to himself.
Randy Orton:
Back into the arena
To a good ovation, Carlito enters the arena, but he doesnt look overly jovial
Michael Cole:
While Judgment Day was a night of glory for Paul London, vindication for Randy Orton, and triumph for Hulk Hogan, it was simply a night of frustration for that man, Carlito.
Yeah, after waiting so long to get his hands on MVP, Carlito allowed his emotions to get the better of him.
Michael Cole:
And whilst he was declared the winner, it was a hollow, disqualification win for the man from the Caribbean.
Maybe for his own good too, Cole. Carlito went into Miami looking to get revenge, he wanted to put MVP on the shelf for good on Sunday, make no mistake about it.
Joey Styles:
But gentlemen, can we really blame Carlito?? After all, he was facing a guy that not only tried to put him on the shelf, but he severely damaged the knee of Carlitos little brother, Primo. Primo Colon will not be back in a wrestling ring for as much as twelve months. And let me tell ya, I sat down with MVP for a one to one interview after he assaulted Carlito, and the guy showed no remorse - ZERO. That, if anything, would have Carlito desperate for revenge.
Michael Cole:
I remember that interview, Joey. Makes me wonder why Jesse Ventura would decide to crowd this announce position, when you had done such a great job with those sit down interviews.
Joey Styles:
Whats that supposed to mean??
Michael Cole:
Youd done a great job with those candid interviews. Thats what its supposed to mean.
Hey guys, looks like Carlito has something to say.
Carlito stands in the ring, mic in hand, with the music dying down.
M.V.P?? On Sunday, you proved to da entire world how much of a chicken you are. After all your talk, about how youd put me back on da shelf da fact you hadda get yourself disqualified to save yourself?? Das pretty pathetic. Its not even funny man.
Carlito shakes his head.
So how about you come to dis ring, Montel?? Why don you come down here, and lets finish dis.
BIG pop, with the fans liking that idea.
An I jus dont mean another match I mean a fight. Well fight, wit no disqualifications, no count outs jus a fight to da finish.
Another pop, with Carlito looking DEADLY serious.
Because after all das happened?? After what you tried to do to me an what you did to my little brother?? Beating you?? Beating you in a match just isnt enough now.
The St. Pete Times forum hushes, as Carlito gets highly serious.
You say you want to get rid o me?? Montel, I mean it. I want you to suffer like my little brother has. I want YOU to go through da type of pain hes gone through.
Carlito glares into the camera.
Dis place aint big enough for da both of us. So lets finish dis NOW!!!
Carlito chucks the mic away, and turns his attention to the stage, and after a few minutes of waiting
Dressed in his ring gear, MVP confidently strides onto the stage. Perhaps a little too confidently for someone thats about to come face to face with a guy that wants to end his career.
Porter stands halfway down the aisle, and waits for his music to stop, before speaking.
Its time for you to move on my man. Carlito-
Heat from the fans, as Porter tries to back out of the fight, but Carlito isnt having it.
Naw, naw. You aint backin outta dis. You made dis problem, now Im gonna finish it.
Pop from the fans. MVP though, cant help but smile.
You might want that, Carlito, but heres the facts. Number one, you got your match at Judgment Day. You beat me at Judgment Day,
albeit from a disqualification.
Carlito looks ready to explode, as MVP tries to weasel out of the challenge.
Im ready to move on with my life, Carlito. You should be doin the same. As far as Im concerned, our issue is over.
More heat for the chicken shit approach of MVP.
Not where Im standing.
MVP smiles again, further boiling Carlitos blood.
Thats too bad, my man. Because Carlito, now, my focus is firmly on becoming the King of the Ring.
And maybe, your attention should be going on the King of the Ring too because Im sure your first round opponent will be doing the same
Right on cue, Chris Masters - Carlitos opponent in the opening round of the KOTR tournament - walks out onto the stage. It now becomes apparent as to why MVP was looking so calm when answering Carlitos challenge.
The Masterpiece walks down the aisle, and stands by MVP, flexing his muscles, as Carlito begins to realise hes in a spot of trouble.
Kay. I see dis. An I simply don care. You wanna bring da big guy wit you?? Be my guest.
Masters and Porter laugh, before both slowly make their way to the apron, climbing on AND CARLITO LAUNCHES!!! Carlito nails Masters with a forearm, knocking him off the apron initially, whilst MVP comes in, clubbing Carlito from behind BUT CARLITO CHARGES FORWARD AND DRIVES MVP INTO THE CORNER!!!!!
Carlito lets fly with rights and lefts, hammering Porter in the corner, with MVP covering up, trying to protect himself. But as the beating continues MASTERS GRIPS CARLITO FROM BEHIND AND APPLIES THE MASTERLOCK!!!!!
Masters swings Carlito around like a rag doll, as the Puerto Rican tries his utmost to escape - but given that only ONE person has ever done it (Batista) - his odds of doing so are pretty low and Porter looks on, watching happily as Carlito fades but suddenly THE FANS COME ALIVE!!!
Hardy hammers MVP on the canvas, forcing Masters to break the Masterlock, and goes after Jeff, BUT JEFF TAGS MASTERS TOO beating him to the punch but MVP LOW BLOWS HARDY!!!
Masters then looks to apply the Masterlock on Jeff BUT CARLITO SAVES HARDY!!! Carlito and Hardy then work together, beating Masters, as MVP slips out of the ring, saving himself. Masters soon joins him though, with the faces chucking The Masterpiece out of the ring!!!
With the fans chanting both faces names, Carlito thanks Jeff for the save, whilst on commentary, Michael Cole wonder out loud if Jeff Hardy has some sort of addiction to poking his nose in other peoples business.
As MVP and Masters regroup on the aisle, we see none other than ARN ANDERSON STEP ONTO THE STAGE!!!
Arn Anderson:
Hold it right there!! Im makin a match, right now. But after everything thats happened this last week, I cant take the risk of putting MVP in the same ring with you Carlito. So instead, Jeff Hardy itll be you, one on one with M.V.P!!! Get a referee out here!!!
MVP looks set to blow a fuse, not wanting a match tonight at all, but it seems like he has no choice with Jeff looking ready for it, as we cut to a commercial
Commercial Break
Match 5 | IMPROMPTU MATCH:
M.V.P w/Chris Masters vs. Jeff Hardy w/Carlito
The match is joined in progress from the commercial, with MVP beating down Jeff in the corner, and continues the beating, with Jeff soon fighting back, showing the well known grit and heart hes always had. Just as the tide has shifted into Jeffs favour, Hardy runs off the ropes AND MASTERS TRIPS HIM!!! That allows MVP to once again take over, with Carlito looking to get his hands on Masters, but his KOTR opponent keeps his distance.
MVP continues to dominate, but is unable to put Jeff away. Porter eventually looks to set up the Drive By kick BUT HARDY AVOIDS IT!!! AND THE FIGHTBACK BEGINS!!! Jeff springs into life, and brings the fans to their feet too, with MVP now on the backfoot, having to hang on, as Hardy piles on the pressure. MVP blocks an attempt of the Twist of Fate, and then tries to set up the Play of the Day BUT JEFF COUNTERS OUT AND DELIVERS THE TWIST OF FATE!!!
Hardy climbs the ropes, with the Swanton Bomb set to follow, but just as he sets himself up MASTERS JUMPS ONTO THE APRON!!! Jeff is distracted, with the referee quickly trying to remove The Masterpiece BUT CARLITO PULLS HIM OFF THE APRON!!! Carlito then hammers down Masters, with Masters trying to scramble free, and away from the fiery Puerto Rican whilst in the ring, MVP jumped to the ropes, buckling Jeff, who falls onto the canvas. Porter quickly follows up, and nails the PLAY OF THE DAY!!! He makes the cover, 1...2...3!!!
Winner: M.V.P @ 06:52
Porter wins the match AND IMMEDIATELY SCARPERS FROM THE RING as Carlito scrambles inside, looking for a piece of his foe but JUST misses him, with MVP stumbling over the barrier, and through the crowd, not wanting any of Carlito tonight.
Michael Cole:
Well, MVP has avoided Carlito tonight, but if both men advance in the King of the Ring tournament, theyll meet in the next round.
Yeah, but a match aint whats on Carlitos mind, Cole. He wants to decimate Porter. Thats the problem.
Joey Styles:
Youve got to wonder, gentlemen, just how does this issue come to a head, between Carlito and MVP??
Well, whatever way it ends, I dont see it ending well.
Michael Cole:
The ongoing issue between MVP and Carlito may not end happily, but one issue that came to a head this Sunday that did, was between JBL, and Hulk Hogan. For Hogan, it was that one more match that the fans begged for, and my word, did they get it
- Clips from Hogans entrance, and the response of the fans for the legendary Hall of Famer.
- Then clips of the early going where JBL pie faced Hogan, and disrespected the legend.
- Hogan quickly rallies, but JBL avoids a quick leg drop.
- JBL then bloodies Hogan, and attacks a (planted) Hogan fan.
- Then, the big comeback; the no sell, the punches, but Hogan misses the boot and takes a Clothesline from Hell but survives.
- Hogan then avoids a second Clothesline from Hell, and drops JBL with a big boot, and follows up with the IMMORTAL LEG DROP 1...2...3!!!
- Clips of Hogans celebrations afterward, as he rides off into the sunset, with an epic final victory.
Joey Styles:
An incredible show, gentlemen. Unfortunately, I could only watch from home, but I can only imagine how spectacular it mustve been to be there.
It was a night Ill never forget, Joe. The last match of The Hulksters career, and what a match it was.
Michael Cole:
Indeed, Hulk Hogan may be hanging his boots up for the last time, but there is no doubt that Hulkamania will live on forever, and it showed at Judgment Day. And while he may be conspicuous by his absence this evening, JBL WILL be here next week. And just what could the self made millionaire have to say, after being beaten at Judgment Day five nights ago.
That one oughta be explosive, Cole.
Michael Cole:
It always is with JBL, Tazz.
Joey Styles:
And we have also just received word that next week, its rematch time. WWE Tag Team titles will be on the line; Booker T and Elijah Burke have earned the rematch, and they get AMW once again, next week on Smackdown.
Michael Cole:
But coming up next, its our hotly anticipated main event. Its Batista and Edge, Number One Contender spot up for grabs. Join us when we come back!!!
Commercial Break
We return from the commercial, with Michael Cole seemingly thinking they still arent on the air
Michael Cole:
Hey Joey, were gonna have to work something out here, Im not comfortable with this three man team. You keep talking over me, or speaking before I can-
Cole suddenly twigs were back, as Batistas music plays through the arena.
Michael Cole:
We are back on Friday Night Smackdown, and it is time for our main event!!!
Joey Style:
Either this man Batista, or the Rated R Superstar, Edge, is gonna book a shot at Randy Orton, next week in Salt Lake City. Two championships on the line next week on S-
Michael Cole:
And the King of the Ring tournament continues too, as MVP and Chavo Guerrero meet, whilst Carlito and Chris Masters are gonna collide too.
Another big night next week, guys.
Batista lets off his pyro, but almost to the second he finishes up EDGE ATTACKS HIM FROM BEHIND!!!
The commentary team are in uproar, as Edge jumps the gun, and hammers Batista down the aisle, with The Animal stumbling down to the ring. Edge slams his opponents head off the apron, and clubs the back senselessly, before rolling the big man into the ring, kick starting the main event
Main Event | #1 CONTENDERS MATCH:
Edge vs. Batista
The Rated R Superstar is all over Batista, hammering away at The Animal, pounding at his back, then stomping him, once Batista is on the canvas. Edge chokes him with his boot, before being hauled away by the referee, with the official warning Edge he CAN be disqualified. Edge pushes past, and drags the dazed Batista to his feet in the corner, continuing to beat him up, and chokes him using the ropes, before being dragged away by the referee once more.
Edge argues with the referee again, before turning his attention back to Big Dave, and as he approaches - BATISTA COMES ALIVE!!! The Animal grabs Edge, and turns the tables, throwing Edge into the corner, AND UNLEASHES HIS PENT UP FURY ON EDGE!!! The Animal unloads on Edge, with right hands and left hands to the head and body, followed by knees to the mid section, with the referee now having to step in and stop Batista, forcing a break.
The Animal walks around the ring, roaring to the fans, before looking to charge in on his opponent BUT EDGE HOPS OUT OF THE RING!!! Batista stops short, and looks furious, as Edge decides to take a walk, avoiding the prowling Animal. Edge walks around the ring, before climbing back onto the apron, ordering that the referee makes sure Batista keeps his distance. Cautiously, Edge climbs back in, but ducks between the ropes, as The Animal approaches again, forcing Batista to keep his distance again, much to the chagrin of Batista, and the fans.
Edge argues with the referee, taking his eyes off The Animal, and is costs him, as Dave plants him with a boot, sending Edge tumbling out of the ring!! Batista then climbs out, and hops off the apron with an axe handle, knocking Edge back down, before following up with a suplex on the paper thin mats!!! Continuing the punishment, the big man rams Edge into the apron, before rolling him back inside the ring. Big Dave then looks to follow inside himself, but as he climbs onto the apron Edge scores with a basement dropkick, taking the legs from Batista, and THE ANIMAL SLIPS OFF THE APRON!!
The tables turn now, with Edge rolling out, and rams Batistas head off the steel steps, then whips him - back first - into the steps, causing The Animal to grimace in pain holding his back. Edge then climbs back inside, imploring the official to make the count, and it reaches six, before Batista begins to try and climb back in, with Edge pulling at his hair, wanting to win by ANY means. The Animal attempts to get in, but as he is halfway through the ropes EDGE SCORES WITH A RUNNING BOOT TO THE SKULL!!! The Animal tumbles into the ring, and the cover is made quickly, 1...2...NO!!!
Edge takes over, wearing down The Animal, scoring a succession of near falls, but still, he cant finish the match, with Batista proving his toughness. Unable to put his opponent away, the cracks begin to show with Edge; arguing with the official, pulling at his hair, pounding the mat in frustration. The signs are there, and Edge is losing his cool. He drags Batista up, and sends him into the corner, before racing in after him BUT BATISTA PUTS UP AN ELBOW!!! Edge is stopped in his tracks, and wheels away, as Batista comes back, stalking down Edge, ramming his head off the turnbuckle, then whips him across the ring - WITH SO MUCH VELOCITY THAT EDGE HITS THE CANVAS UPON IMPACT!!!
Edge lies on the canvas, as Batista gets fired up, ready for a comeback. The Animal scrapes Edge off the canvas, and sends him off the ropes, scooping him on the return, and drops him with a sidewalk slam!!! He hooks the leg, 1...2...NO!!! Edge survives, and the match continues. But its Batista in the ascendancy, and he watches as Edge tries to crawl out of the ring, before climbing out himself, stopping Edge at the apron, and delivers an elbow on his laid down opponent.
Batista climbs back in, and stalks Edge into the corner, driving his shoulder into the gut of the Rated R Superstar, over and over, before dragging Edge out of the corner, throwing him onto his shoulder like a rag doll, setting up for a running power slam BUT EDGE SLIPS OFF THE BACK AND NAILS THE BUZZ KILLER!!! Edge hooks the legs, 1...2...KICK OUT!!! Edge cant believe it!!! His eyes pop open wide, as he shakes his head, pulling at his hair again, before slamming the mat as he gets to his feet.
Edge then climbs the buckles, and sets himself, waiting for Batista to get up AND LAUNCHES HIMSELF AT THE ANIMAL WITH A CROSS BODY BUT IS CAUGHT AND POWERSLAMMED!!! Second time lucky for Batista, who makes the cover, 1...2...NO!!! Batista pounds the mat, showing his own frustrations, as Edge refuses to stay down. The Animal climbs to his feet, and pushes himself up in the corner, taking an unusual risk perching up top, as Edge gets to his feet AND BATISTA FLIES WITH A SHOULDER BLOCK OFF THE TOP!!! The fans come alive, thanks to the big high flying risk of the big man, who makes another cover, 1...2...NO!!! Still though, its not enough to put Edge away, and earn a shot at the title next week!!
The Animal reaches his feet once again, and watches as Edge pulls himself up on the ropes. Batista then charges in, BUT EDGE SUDDENLY COUNTERS - WITH A FLAPJACK, HANGING BATISTA UP ON THE ROPES!!! The Animal staggers away holding his throat, gasping for air AS EDGE RACES IN FOR THE SPEAR BUT BATISTA SIDE STEPS IT!!! Edge comes off the opposite ropes and back toward Batista RIGHT INTO THE SPINEBUSTER!!!
Batista is quickly back up, and looking fired up SHAKES THE ROPES!!! The fans know what is coming next, as The Animal gives a thumbs up THEN DOWN!!! He homes in on Edge, dragging the lifeless Rated R Superstar to his feet, throwing him into position FOR THE BATISTA BOMB!!! The Animal gets him up BUT EDGE COUNTERS AT THE LAST POSSIBLE SECOND WITH A DDT!!!
Both men are down!!! Both stay down, as the official begins a count, getting to five, then six before Edge drapes an arm over Batista!!! 1...2...KICK OUT!!! Edge instantly rolls off, covering his face with his hands, before pounding the mat in anger again. Edge turns over, and gets himself back to his feet, before taking position in the corner, crouching down SIGNALLING FOR THE SPEAR!!! Edge now gets the teeth gritted, watching Batista, willing him to his feet AND LAUNCHES AT HIM FOR A SPEAR BUT MISSES AGAIN AND THIS TIME SPEARS THE REFEREE!!!!!
Edges eyes bug out again, seeing whats happened, and looks ready to blow a gasket again, before turning ducks under a clothesline from Batista THEN DRILLS BATISTA WITH A LOW BLOW!!! The Animal doubles over, selling the shot to the balls, as Edge takes advantage of the grounded official. The Rated R Superstar then sets himself AND THIS TIME DOES SCORE WITH THE SPEAR ON BATISTA!!!!! Edge though, knows he hasnt got the match won, with the referee down, and as soon as he hits the spear, he rolls out of the ring.
Outside, Edge pushes past the timekeeper and ring announcer, grabbing a steel chair, chucking it into the ring, before grabbing a second, and carrying it inside the ring with him. Edge then places the chair under the head of The Animal, with the commentary team predicting - ominously - what could be coming next from Edge the one man CONCHAIRTO!! Edge then picks up the other chair and raises it high looking to the camera, smiling devilishly AND SLAMS IT DOWN BUT BATISTA MOVES!!! CHAIR MEETS CHAIR!!!
Edge staggers away, letting one hand go from the chair, as The Animal gets to his feet AND RIPS THE CHAIR FROM EDGES GRASP!!! Edges expression turns, as he backs into the corner, showing total fear of The Animal, cowering in the corner, begging for mercy, as Batista laughs THEN TURNS SERIOUS!!! The Animal shakes his head at Edge, THEN WEARS HIM OUT WITH THE CHAIR!!! Edge gets nailed across the back, time and time again, before Big Dave targets the ribs, jabbing the chair into the mid section, before wearing it out on the legs and then the back again!!! Edge is out, after the blistering attack, as Batista chucks the chair out of the ring, before kicking the other out with it, and grabs the dazed official, throwing him to the middle of the ring, then hooks the leg of Edge, and the count is made 1. ..2. ..3!!!!!!
Winner: Batista @ 14:39
Michael Cole:
BATISTA WINS!!! The Animal will get his shot at the WWE Champion NEXT WEEK ON SMACKDOWN!!!
Evolution relived next week, Cole!! Batista and Orton, tearing it up, I cant wait!!
Joey Styles:
And Edge can have no complaints - he introduced the chair, he tried to cut all the corners, but still, Batista won, and The Animal has his date with destiny, next week on Smackdown!!
Batista continues to celebrate, as the beaten Edge rolls out of the ring, holding his ribs, doubling over, staggering up the aisle, shaking his head - now at the BACK of the line when it comes to a shot at the WWE Championship!!!
Being The Booker
This ... is not meth...
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Chicago
Posts: 5,843
Re: Being The Booker
Smackdown! Feedback
Batista starting the show? Comes as a big shock to me, tbh. Glad that you didnt try and do too much with The Animal, as hes obviously more of a fighter than a talker. Wanting Randy Orton for the WWE Title is a nice new feud possibility, with the reasoning making sense, after he helped beat the rest of The New Wave at Judgment Day. Edge coming out and interrupting has pretty much become contractually obligated in this thread, and he was his usual whiny self here. Good points made by the title-less heel, but all ones that weve heard before. Knew that these two werent going to come to blows, with Arn interrupting and making quite the main event. Glad that the winner gets the title shot soon, as it makes next weeks show look huge, regardless of who is challenging Orton. Very nice way to kick off the night.
The commentary before the match pretty much gave away what was going to happen in this match, but it still told a great story and was entertaining. Loved seeing Burke make up for his JD mistake and single-handedly win the match for himself and Booker T, getting them right back to the front of the line of challengers for the tag titles. Hope this rivalry continues to entertain.
Doane should be Hardcore. But Dinsmore on the other hand
KOTR is already shaping up to be epic. Tbh, I see London/Shelton as the final as of right now.
Glad to see Doane get the victory, but I figured you might give the match some more time. Just seems way too short of a time frame for a 20-year-old to beat a veteran, even if that veteran is the resident jobber. Doane/London or Doane/Dinsmore would both be great matches, but I still see Ken taking on the US Champion next week.
Arn updating us on RVD was expected, but I didnt expect to hear Anderson say that he is the one to blame for RVD being injured. I guess I never really realized some of the points that Arn said, and this may be the beginning of a storyline that culminates with Arn relieving himself of his duties as SD! GM. Either way, its obvious that Van Dam will be out of this thread for a few months, at least through SummerSlam, and I just wonder what state he will in when he comes back. Does he blame Arn? Or does he go after Orton again? So many possibilities.
Atfer starting off with the corny, ultra-babyface speech from London, this promo really picked up speed and delivered. Obviously London was happy to win the belt on Sunday and he is correct in praising Albright. Its not a small task to hold a title for more than half a year. That being said, I really got into the promo when London made his intentions known to Randy Orton. That would be one hell of a match and feud and its one that I truly believe we will see down the road. Sounds like a perfect match to have on Smackdown! after London wins a #1 contenders match or something. Really glad that youve foreshadowed a match between the two, tbh.
The story told during the match between Dinsmore and London was a very interesting one, with London predictably flat after such an awesome encounter with Albright just five days ago. Could really see the match playing out the way it did, with Dinsmore trying just about everything to go after London, but just cant keep the US Champion down. Good ending to the match, with it looking like London would again be cut off, but he manages to dump Nick off the top rope and get the win with the Shooting Star. Cant wait to see whats next for this kid, tbh.
Dinsmore and Cade on the way out of The New Wave? Sure looks that way, imo.
Typical Orton promo here, really talking himself up and explaining why he is the absolute best on Smackdown!. And I think you handled him perfectly. Loved the way that he ran down all the men hes beaten and also Batista, who he thinks doesnt even deserve to be in the ring with Orton. Youve truly made Randy into THE most unlikeable guy in the company, tbh. Talking about Anderson was needed and like I said earlier, this is the beginning of a storyline that will only end badly for Arn. Lesnar coming out was a pretty good shock, as was him just grabbing Orton and hitting the F-5, really doing the damage early. Surprised that you had Triple H revealed as the man behind the sledgehammer so early, but knowing you, you have your reason. The next time Brock and Hunter come face to face, it shall be epic, imo.
Great way to continue to show Kendricks evolution into pretty much the ultimate douchebag. While London may be too big a star to be talked to in a segment like this, it still made sense, given the history between the two. Brians going to come crashing down to earth at some point, and its going to be pretty ugly for him.
Albright wasnt nearly as pissed about losing the US Title as I thought hed be, considering how damn serious he was in the promo last week. But I do like that he realizes he can do bigger things because quite frankly, he should be above the US Title now. Him and Haas are really a team now and I see each man doing well in the KOTR, but Im not so sure they will end up facing each other. Either way, one of the two is getting to the semi-finals, imo.
Liked the way that you incorporated Kendrick into this match. Yeah, Crazy and Chavo were never going to win, but at least you made it seem like Chavo being occupied with Kendrick made them lose the match, instead of just having them lose fair and square. A good win for the Craftsmen, as I look forward to seeing what they do in KOTR.
And the New Wave continues to unravel even more
Carlito getting right down to business shouldnt surprise anyone, as he has to feel empty-handed after failing to do what he set out to on Sunday night - end MVPs career. Porter actually coming out was a little surprising, but him trying to get out of facing Carlito again sure wasnt. Masterpiece coming out makes it obvious why MVP wasnt worried about confronting Carlito, but CCC launches himself at both men! Love the tenacity from CCC but the numbers are just too much. Jeff Hardy making the save was nice and now we get a little extra match!
A cheap win by MVP makes sense here and thats just what happened. Keeps Hardy looking strong even though he lost but what this is really all about is the Porter/Carlito issue. One thing is for sure, it will end badly, tbh.
Next week looks huge, with a WWE Title and Tag Team Title matches, as well as two KOTR matches. And JBL showing up again? Oh baby.
Edge is desperate for another shot at the title, a one-on-one shot, and thats obvious with his sneak attack to start the match. The match flowed very well, imo, with Batista and Edge trading the advantage very nicely. Loved how the frustration built in both men throughout the match, especially Edge, as they both knew what was at stake. Some very close near falls at the end, with Edge accidentally spearing the official setting the tone for the ending. Glad that Batista got out of the way of the conchairto but I was shocked to see him actually use the chair himself to get the win. Thought he would have at least hit the Batista Bomb. Oh well, biggest win yet of his career and Orton/Batista next week should be big.
A pretty good show, coming off JD very nicely. As I said earlier in the feedback, next week looks awesome so hurry up on that.
PatMan Presents: World Wrestling Entertainment 2007
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Behind Blue Eyes
Posts: 11,867
Re: Being The Booker
SmackDown! Feedback
Nice start to the show here with the recap of Judgment Day along with the announcers giving us something to expect from the card with some nice matches already there. I already like the little bits of tension between Joey Styles and Cole too, so hopefully that makes the SmackDown! announce team a little more interesting to write for you, as I seem to remember you saying you didnt particularly enjoy it.
Batista coming out to start the show is a shock, although he said at Judgment Day he was going for the top title now, and a good way to kick that off is right here and now. Batista getting straight to the point is probably for the best, calling Orton straight out. The reasoning behind wanting him after running through The New Wave at Judgment Day is sound, and I liked the way you had Batista legitimize his claim for a shot at the gold by saying hes the one guy who can stand up to Orton, while also putting Orton over strong with the list of people hes beaten and taken out. Bringing up their history is a nice touch too before the interruption from Edge. Ever since I started reading this thread, I really feel like that as each show goes by, you get better and better at writing for Edge, and this was no exception. Maybe its due to the way the character has evolved for you, but the whole rant from Edge about how its not fair is great, and why Batista shouldnt get a shot over him. Batista having the no nonsense attitude in his reply is good, and I loved how Edge took what Batista said about how long hes been waiting and ran with it, using it to again go off on his tangent about it not being fair. The way Edge makes it seem like its his title shot thats being taken is a great way to explain why there would be tension between the two for Batista wanting a shot, while again, Batista being no nonsense before the Arn interruption was good. Arn was good with his own no nonsense style, shutting Edge down for a nice little face pop, before announcing what looks like a pretty good main event. Honestly, after their confrontation at Judgment Day, I thought this may have been more of a long term feud, but putting the match on tonight works just fine. Whatever the result, we should be in for a good match next week too. The stipulation about Edge going to the back of the line only makes it all the more interesting. Pretty good start to the show.
As I said in the comments on your preview, Im very surprised this rematch came so soon, and to drag this feud out a little more due to your weak looking division, I thought you maybe could have had Double B being forced to earn even a non-title rematch with the champs due to the champs saying theyve already beaten them. Regardless, this was a nice sounding match, getting Double B back in contention, and also allowing Elijah to look good following Judgment Day. Good stuff.
Honestly, youve done a great job hyping the King of the Ring thus far, making it seem huge. Its very pleasing to see, even if just a small thing (sidenote: another small thing, but the continued tension between Cole and Styles is great).
Extremely happy to see Doane winning, even if it is just against Hardcore Holly, because The New Wave NEEDS to look strong. A good performance in the King of the Ring should do a lot for them, no matter who its by.
This whole saga with Van Dam has been very interesting and different to what you usually see in BTB, and its actually been something Ive found myself enjoying more and more. Van Dam being injured following Judgment Day was obviously, and Arn putting over the sick actions of Orton was good, but the way Arn went about admitting to abusing his power was done the best of it all. I really liked the way he went about declaring he was the one to blame, not Orton, and that he was doing all he did to eliminate Orton as champion, only for Orton to stand tall. The way he talked about replacing Paul Heyman in an important role, only to turn out like Heyman was done really well too, and topped off with the medical suspension, it made for a very good promo. Im a little surprised that this thing between Orton and Anderson seems over, because you still have Flair to seemingly come back and represent his friend, but I guess well see where things go.
Pretty good little feel good promo from London here to sum up his feelings on winning the title. The way London talked about his desperation to finally get that big win was done well, as was the way he put over Albright as a champion, saying he wanted to be just like Albright as a fighting champion, which not only makes London look good, but also Albright. The address to Orton was also very interesting, as it seemed to surely hint at a confrontation down the line between the two, but I honestly cant see it coming. Whether it does or doesnt, the intensity in this part of the promo was still great, and it was good to see some real fire brought to the promo.
Very nice match, showing the contrast between the two as Dinsmore did something a little different and went after the head of London which I really liked, while London was just the high flier youd expect. If this is what we can expect from London every week as US Champion, then Ill be very happy, because putting on the standout matches of the show is what you should be trying to get him to do. Good stuff, allowing London to have a good first night as champ and progress in the King of the Ring, while you also did Dinsmore a lot of much needed good.
Very interesting segment here to continue the storyline between The New Wave and Orton, with Doane looking to be the golden child of the group at this stage. Honestly, I dont mind that, as I think he fits best with Orton, although like Ive said before, itd be a shame to see this group go to waste with no real progression for any of them.
I dont mind this positioning of Orton coming out to speak on the show, because not only is it something different, but it also adds that main event feel to the middle of the show. The callousness with which Orton spoke of RVD to start the promo was great, as was the speech about Paul London, showing the typical Orton intensity that you love to see, while also doing a good job of putting London and his US Title victory over at the same time. The Lesnar mention was a little weak unfortunately, but the other two were done well. The way Orton transitioned it all to the main event for tonight was done really well too, addressing Batista and Edge in good fashion, before another nice transition over to Anderson, really giving this promo a good flow thus far. The way Orton spoke about Anderson was great, bringing up the prior history which would demand action to be taken against him, while I loved Orton taking such pleasure in putting the injuries to Jericho and RVD on Andersons head, making them his fault. Lesnar interrupting and attacking Orton from behind seemed strange at first, but the way Lesnar explained it was good, and his desperation to find out if Triple H was the person to plant the sledgehammer was written well. The emphatic call out from Lesnar to Triple H was nice too, although I was disappointed in the way Ortons segment suddenly turned into something nothing about him. As the champion you feel he shouldnt look like a bitch, unless its by his choice of being a coward, and this just bitched him out far too much in my opinion. Its a shame too, because his promo up until the Lesnar interruption was great.
God I love the arrogance weve been seeing from Kendrick of late. I know this does absolutely nothing to continue his feud with Chavo, which I thought we would see after Judgment Day only seemed to inflame the situation between him and Kendrick, but some of the arrogance from Kendrick was great. Him wanting London to dedicate his victory to him and saying he left the cruiserweight division so he could have some success was both gold. I was glad to see Kendrick at least acknowledged Chavo, and made it seem like he was the good friend out of the two as well. Maybe not a necessary segment, but still a great one to show Kendricks attitude.
I guess iuts good to see Albright putting the title loss behind him and refocusing on the King of the Ring. I love the seemingly permanent pairing of these two together as well, because they just seem perfect as a team. As far as the name The Master Craftsmen goes Im not entirely sold, and I think its a little odd, but it may grow on me. Regardless, a pretty nice promo to continue to show these two together.
Nice way to allow Albright and Haas to look good with a tag team victory, while Kendricks arrogance was again showcased well here, continuing his thing with Chavo along.
Interesting way to continue this New Wave thing along, seemingly keeping the drift apart going.
Honestly, Im disappointed about the positioning of this segment on the card. Carlito/MVP had been one of your bigger feuds headed into Judgment Day, and to me, this segment just seems buried away under more important stuff on the card. Carlitos intensity in calling MVP out was good, and I liked that he was just straight on right to the message. MVP trying to back out with the fight at first, only to bring backup in Masters was a nice way to show the type of guy MVP is, and I like how you connected it all with the King of the Ring, with Masters being Carlitos opponent for it. The brawl between those three before Jeff came down to help out was nicely done as well, and Michael Coles little comment was very interesting, seemingly continuing to signal a heel turn. I dont mind the match between MVP and Hardy either, and the way Anderson explained why it would be only those two was done well.
The match between the two was done well too, with the dirty finish courtesy of Masters protecting Jeff, while also allowing MVP to look good in victory. Nice to see him running for his life after the match too, keeping the intensity from Carlito there.
JBL, a tag title match and a WWE Title match next week? Thats an amazingly stacked show. Should be good.
Hmm, Ive been enjoying this commentary thing for the whole show, but I thought this was too obvious, even with Cole not knowing that were back. Honestly, I would have liked the sly digs to have just kept building up from Cole to Styles for weeks before he flat out admits he doesnt like him and goes heel.
Edge jumping Batista to start the match is a fine way to go, showing his intensity right from the beginning. The match moved nicely, with Batista getting retribution leading to Edge playing the cowardly role working well. Edges frustration was characterized beautifully as well, and the way the match flowed up to the counter wrestling ending felt spot on. The ref bump leading to the use of the chair by Batista after Edge brought it in was clever too, because while Batista wins and gets his title match, it also gives Edge yet another thing to complain about. Im not sure how thatll work with him now being at the back of the line, but well see. Big way to finish SmackDown!.
Another good show here, Wolfy. While the roster still lacks that bit of depth, especially in the tag division, the booking of everyone sans Orton looked very good here, because everyone seems to have something going on. The writing, like always, was good, and youve now got a huge show for us to look forward to next week when you get to it. Hopefully you dont take too long in between shows and leave us waiting.
Come home Kurt
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: London
Posts: 10,495
Re: Being The Booker
Smackdown Feedback
Unlike most people, I pay attention to the commentary of a show; and so right off the bat I can see that by bringing Joey Styles onto the Smackdown announce team, and causing some friction between him and Michael Cole, one of the two is going to end up leaving the team pretty soon. What am I saying? Cole is going to be leaving the team soon.
Im sure youre going to have fun writing this while it lasts as I will reading it, so dont tune it down just because you think people arent paying attention. I am.
Again, whilst most people wouldve expected you to have Randy Orton open the show, Im glad you decided to take an alternative show. Edge, Orton and Lesnar are all undoubtedly going to have something to say on this show, so by kicking off with Batista, youre giving someone else the spotlight for a change, and I like it. As per usual old man, your characterisation of Batista was spot on, and cannot be faulted. I like how youve been giving Batista a little push in this thread as of late, but I hope its not just a temporary thing just because Jericho, RVD and Taker are currently out of action.
I cant really say much about Edge, other than Im DESPERATE to see this guy finally get the WWE Championship. You know Ive made it clear that by now, hes pretty much a main eventer, and the only thing he needs to solidify his status is the world title. Again, the characterisation was spot on, and I especially like how you had Edge circle the ring before entering, rather than just storm down and come face-to-face with Batista.
Am I the only one who doesnt like Arn Anderson as GM? I dont know what it is, but I just dont like the guy in this role. He seems a little boring to me. Especially now that Jesse Ventura is the WWE Commissioner, your authority figures are all starting to seem the same to me...over the hill. Perhaps its time to shake things up a little? Nonetheless, putting my opinion to one side, the Edge/Batista match was expected. Considering this title shot is for next week on Smackdown, Ill say Batista will get the win, rather than Edge.
Oh my God. Booker T is part of a match, AND IS ON THE WINNING TEAM?!?! Are you getting sentimental for the old guy, old man?? Im not going to say much on the match since it was recapped so Ill talk about the booking. I like that Burke and Booker got the win, and to be honest, itd be fun to see them finally get themselves some tag team gold in this thread.
Doane beating Holly was more obvious than the sky being blue.
Wolfy, you know Im an honest man, a man who tells the truth, unlike most of the sycophants and parasites of this section. So Ill tell you the truth. Ive read this same Anderson promo about three times now. Every week he keeps saying the same thing about his position as GM, how RVD might never wrestle again, yada yada yada. Its not a badly written promo, but its just not new material. Obviously this thing with Anderson is leading somewhere, and I think wherever its going; it needs to get there quicker.
Moving onto a more positive note, I have to give you credit for this Paul London push. He wins a nice back and forth match with Dinsmore, with both men looking good as a result, and he had a nice little promo beforehand. Whilst I like how youve pushed London, I severely doubt hell ever win the WWE Championship, but you being you, I guess anything is possible.
Not much to say on the next segment. A good continuation of the imminent New Wave break up, but I hope that Orton shaking Doanes hand isnt a sign of those two keeping an alliance. As much as I dislike the Orton character in this thread since hes practically become what he was a year ago in real life, Id still rather see him solo than with lackeys. Much like my Batista/McMahon alliance in the Era of Darkness was questioned, Im going to question Orton having any lackeys. On another note, I didnt like Orton saying cue my music. Came off as a little cheesy if Im being honest. You couldve just gone straight into the next segment without that.
Despite my dislike for the Orton character, his promo was actually well written. Not that should come as a surprise since this is you, but it was. I liked how you had Orton refer to Edges missed opportunities, as well as Batistas role in Evolution. That is typical Orton; trying to expose the weaknesses of his opponents and thus make himself look better in the process. Orton trying to get Arn Anderson fired makes me actually like the guy.
Lesnars appearance at the end of the promo was very well done, and having him shut Orton up with a simple F-5 puts him over well. The revelation of Triple H being behind the sledgehammer at Judgment Day wasnt exactly a shock, but thats not a bad thing. I expect some sort of Brock/Triple H rematch to come from this, and if Lesnar were to beat Orton for the WWE Championship, thatd make it even more interesting, IMO. However, you also have to fit in Orton vs. Lesnar for the title somewhere, so at this point, Id say you should consider your options. Whichever way you go though, the future of this thread looks mighty interesting. Just make sure to have Orton do something big next week, because right now he looks destined to lose the title to Brock Lesnar.
@ the next segment. Brian Kendrick is easily the best character going in your thread right now, and your writing of the character is just brilliant. I think its very clever of you to have Kendrick ignore London up until London wins a championship; as if to say that Kendrick doesnt accept those without one, including Chavo. Kendrick suggesting double gold would look good on him was a nice touch, and whilst I think this was just a one-time backstage segment, it would be interesting to see Kendrick and London (as champions) feud somewhere down the line.
I REALLY like how you had Albright shifting focus to the King of the Ring from the United States Championship. On one hand, he looks like a right coward (as heels should do) by not going after the title and very subtly admitting he doesnt want it back; but it also works in the sense that he can now start to move up the ladder. I wouldnt be surprised at all to see Albright to win the whole thing, and to be honest, youre doing very well to hype this thing. There are so many contenders to win the KOTR that its completely unpredictable, which is nothing but a good thing. Im not too keen on the Master Craftsmen team name though, old boy. Makes Albright and Haas sound like two handymen rather than wrestlers.
Again, with such a short recap, I cant really say much on the match other than the booking and finish. Im not too sure on Kendricks interference. On one hand, it makes sense for him to come down and subtly distract Chavo. On the other, even if Super Crazy is still his friend, I doubt that would matter to him. The way you developed the character as of late would make it seem Kendrick would be in the back relaxing rather than coming to the ring to help. Its not a big deal, but yknow, I have to debate these things out aloud. After that interview backstage and the fact that Albright lost at Judgment Day, it made sense for him to pick up the win, but without Chavo looking bad. Itll be interesting to see how you develop the ever so subtle yet obvious at the same time tension between Haas and Albright in your future shows.
The Randy Orton segment was alright, I guess. I dont think it was completely necessary though. I assume you put this in to make Orton look a little bit stronger after getting his ass handed to him by Lesnar, but you couldve just as easily done that by having Orton disappear for the remainder of the show and then pop up and attack Lesnar next week. Again, not a big deal, but one of those things I just thought Id mention.
I like that you continue to build the tension between Cole and Styles. Dont think nobody notices.
Carlito is a character Ive ALWAYS struggled to write promos for, and so seeing you pull it off so well is very pleasing. Obviously we are used to the cool (pun intended), collected, even funny side of Carlito, so seeing you bring out some of his aggression was both believable and enjoyable. I also think MVPs few lines, even though they were few, were well written. As usual, your understanding of heel psychology is evident as Chris Masters coming out with MVP is the PERFECT thing for MVP to do. The subsequent brawl and setting up of a match (god, Anderson AGAIN?) was well written. Either Jeff or MVP going over wouldve worked, but I think you made the right choice to have MVP go over. With the KOTR looming, realistically (since you hate Jeff, it seems), MVP needs the momentum.
The main event was the match of the night, and above everything else on this show, it did its job of making Batista look and feel like a main event player. Im not just saying that because of his real life rise to the top; Im saying it because of the way this match was booked. You didnt have the heel Edge dominate, or Batista use his strength to dominate. Both men got in (Id say) an equal amount of offence, both looking good as a result. Batista vs. Orton next week was expected, and whilst I FULLY expect Orton to retain, I hope you do another good job of making The Animal look like a main event star, as Smackdown is in need of them right now.
Just one question in my mind now...where does Edge go from here? You made sure to promote this back of the line business for the loser of this match, and obviously, Edges failure to win the gold must be leading to SOMETHING. I know Im repeating myself, but I just hope you havent gotten cold feet and slowed down his push again. I expect a promo full of whining and complaining next week, but the clock is ticking. If this were real booking, how much more could the audience tolerate of this? Would they, after all the missed opportunities, buy Edge as a main eventer when he (Im assuming he will finally make it) wins the WWE Championship? I think thats another point you need to think about as you book your next few shows.
Overall, I found myself unable to really criticise you. I know that sounds incredibly ridiculous on my part, but its true, Wolfy. Your characterisation with nearly every single character is damn near perfect, and your match booking all makes sense. Ive numbered out the things that bother me (Arn Anderson, Edge, the New Wave and Orton needing to look stronger next week). So apart from those things, this was another solid performance on your part. Now dont disappear because I didnt suck up to you and keep this baby rolling. And just one more time, just for you.
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Victoria, Australia
Posts: 4,388
Re: Being The Booker
Smackdown Feedback
The opening video was okay, highlighting some of the events which took place at JD, with the still images definitely adding to the effect, however I prefer when everything that took place at the PPV is mentioned, not just the main things. A little thing I know, but its just what I like.
I actually really enjoyed the opening commentary, introducing Joey Styles to the commentary team. I love the tension youre already building between Styles and Cole, with Cole of course eventually being given the boot. Cole glossing over the welcome, to Styles interrupting was quite good. I think you tried a little too hard with Styles referring to RVD as the former ECW TV Champion though, I just cant see that ever happening.
Once again, I loved the commentary during Batistas entrance. Opening the show with Batista was a real shock, I definitely didnt expect this, as after the six man tag match, I have no idea where his going with this. Batista was alright here, very intense, although I was glad you kept it rather short, as in his current state in this thread, if the promo went much longer we would have began to see just how embarrassing his mic work is. I like the fact that youre finally going to give him that push up to the next level, or it seems like you are, as I think he probably deserves it by this point. One thing about Batista that I wasnt sure about was how he was talking directly to Orton, sending an intense message, and then in the next breath he began talking about Orton to the crowd, yet still trying to maintain the intensity. Whilst it was good for what you did, I think it would have been more effective if he just continued talking to Orton directly. I didnt think Orton would answer this challenge, which is why I was rather pleased to see Edge, as these two could have a rather interesting and original (in this thread) confrontation. Typical Edge to start, immediately degrading Batista, good stuff. Batistas rebuttal was actually pretty good, which I didnt expect, as I especially loved the line regarding Edge resetting his goals. The rest of Edge was very good, him being his usual neurotic self, brilliant stuff. Batista wanting to fight was nice to, before Arn Anderson interfered. Double A was very good, owning Edge and then setting up tonights main event. Honestly, Id say the opening was pretty good, despite an issue with Batista right at the start, I thought everybody was written perfectly.
Burke and Booker T get a nice win over AMW; although its a little surprising to see the WWE Tag Team Champions lose in just over five minutes. I understand that its a weekly show, and you need time for other matches, but Im not sure this makes your champions look all that impressive. I guess there will be a rematch down the line, and well, if Burke and Booker dont get the win, Ive no idea where your tag division is going, because I dont think there is any potential new challengers around.
The New Wave really need to get back on track, otherwise Orton really is going to give them the boot. As a matter of fact, Orton not being there to encourage Doane makes me think maybe he will anyway.
I cant wait for this KOTR tournament to really begin heating up, it should be fun.
Doane > Holly, nothing really to add. A nice way to get NW back on track, although Im not sure if it will be enough to impress Orton.
A smart move showing what happened to RVD again, simply adding some more intrigue to just what his condition is, although I think its obvious he will be out for awhile.
I think I may have said a few times that I only really like Double A when hes dealing with Orton, and whilst tonight I liked him earlier in the show, I didnt like how he was now. It would have been fine if he just had this promo, which was written wonderfully, where he was all worn down, he admitted he stuffed up, and medically suspended Rob, but I think the opening promo hurt the effect of this segment. For one, you wrote Anderson brilliantly as broken down and worn, however there was none of this a mere half an hour or so ago. I just thought if this was Andersons mood, it had to be like it all night, not just in one segment. As I said, promo was written wonderfully, you got him as feeling tired and beaten across perfectly, but previous events hurt it a fair bit.
Once again, with the commentary running down whats happening with RVD, and Cole using the term sports entertainers was noticed. I dont usually care for the commentary on SD, but tonight it has been really great to read.
Paul Londons victory speech was never going to be promo of the year, although for what it was, simply an acceptance speech, you really did a terrific job. I was a little surprised by the compliments he paid to Albright, especially the whole ducking a challenge thing, I doubt hed mention that considering the attack before the match when London was supposed to get his first title shot. Besides that, it was pretty good, and whilst Id much rather Batista and London, I like how youre clearly showing that it is Orton and his New Wave brothers against the world. The passionate speech about Van Dam being like a brother was nice, as was the call for blood. Honestly, a much better promo than I expected out of Paul London, good work.
The match itself was a lot more competitive than what I expected, tbh, because with how things have been recently, I was surprised to see Dinsmore go so well. Even with Dinsmore doing well, I think it was quite obvious that this was Londons match to win, continuing his momentum since he became the US Champion. London advancing to the KOTR is good, and Dinsmore losing continues the New Waves drifting away from Orton, so good booking, imo.
Ortons meeting with the New Wave was very good, continuing the rift that has been between them as of late. The drama continued to build nicely in this story, with one of the three now actually getting complimented.
A Randy Orton promo? Honestly, I like it, but I just didnt expect it. Orton was spot on from the get go, continuing to be, probably the best character on SD, atm, as he continues his reign of terror. I really liked the angle of the promo in the early stages, having everything based around getting what you deserve; I thought it was quite good. I like the fact that Orton is showing that London is on his radar to, it gives the US Champ more credibility. From here, moving on to Double A was all done with a smooth transition, and as I said, I probably cant fault anything you wrote here. Lesnars attack was exciting stuff I must say, although Im not too sure whether or not attacking Orton from behind was a good thing or not, it makes him seem a tad bitchy. Lesnars intensity after the attack was very good though, making me forget about the fact that it was from behind. I have a theory that this is all some kind of big set up by Orton, using the sledgehammer to get Lesnar off of his ass, but for now, this is quite interesting with Lesnar wanting Triple H, and Orton probably going to feud with Edge or Tista.
at Brian Kendrick. Ever since becoming the Cruiserweight Champion his transformation has been amazing, and having this meeting with London was brilliant, the two former partners, it just had that awesome feeling to it. Terrific work.
I thought Albright and Haas interview was pretty good, as we get more of an idea of why they are together, and we see that Albright doesnt really care for a US title rematch or anything like that. So yeah, this promo was definitely needed, and it did its job, however hopefully this Master Craftsmen thing doesnt stick around, Im, not a huge fan of the name.
The tag team match was rather good, with Albright getting an important win, and Kendrick continuing his thing with Guerrero, and now Super Crazy will probably become more involved as well. Nothing special, but just a well booked match that gets some things rolling.
The New Wave ditched Orton? I didnt expect things to go like this, especially with Doane being on Ortons good side tonight, I cant wait to see where it goes from here.
Another promo, this time from Carlito? Once again, I didnt really see this coming, but I love promo heavy shows, so nothing to worry about.
at the tension on commentary once again, Ill continue to take notice. The intensity from Carlito is not something Im entirely used to, however I thought you grasped his frustration pretty well throughout. With this attitude, Lito cant be his charismatic self, so I was pretty happy when MVP made his way out. Porter was the typical heel weasel, playing it perfectly, however I thought maybe he could have shown a little bit more arrogance. Having Masters by his side was nice, as was the brawl, and Hardy evening shit up. Double A out again, showing no signs of tiredness, btw, and he makes a match for Hardy/MVP? Awesome. By the way, I did realize that Anderson let it be known that he couldnt risk putting Lito in the ring with Porter, linking it to Orton a little. I still would have preferred if Anderson didnt make another appearance tonight, it makes him seem less tired if hes interrupting every explosive situation.
This match between Porter and Hardy was brought about rather cleverly considering it was just a filler, and a nice win for Porter, probably getting Carlito even more annoyed with him.
JBL promo next week, as usual with you, should be gold.
Once again, the commentary has been wonderful, and it continued with Cole, the dumb ass, thinking they were still off the air. Edge attacking Batista from behind was nice, showing just how eager Edge finally is to become the WWE Champion. The main event was brilliant, with Edge looking the goods early, and the strength of Batista keeping him in it. I liked the ring psychology of this match, with Edge attempting to get the upper hand by spending time on the outside and what not. The ending was what counts though, and honestly whilst I liked the chair backfiring on Edge, Im not sure if I liked Batista going wild with the chair and picking up the victory. Even if he just did a Batista Bomb afterward, it would have made it seem a whole lot better, as Batista, who to me is still really just a mid carder, defeating Edge with a chair doesnt give him much credibility to face Orton next week.
I really liked this show. As per usual with you, everything did its job, making for a highly entertaining show. There were a few little booking things, which never happens with you, and whilst the promos were brilliant, there were a few typos, which also never happen with you. It was a little weird to see, and maybe its just a sign of how youre struggling for time, or motivation or whatever it is, but hopefully you can work through it. To end things on a positive, youve proved you dont need The Coach for your commentary to be interesting, it was wonderful tonight, and is something I cant wait to see develop. As I said, still a pretty good show, so keep at it, Wolfy.
Wolf Beast
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Six inches from a computer screen
Posts: 5,319
Re: Being The Booker
Hard to believe this thread began seven years ago yesterday
God knows how long this 'return' will last. I had a lot of Raw already written before my self imposed exile, so it shouldnt take long to finish it off. As for after that? Could be another long wait.
Now ... how do you do this thing again? Ah, preview.
Monday Night Raw Preview
This week, Raw emanates from Salt Lake City, with the fans in attendance in for a real treat, courtesy of Raw General Manager, Eric Bischoff.
Having been given the night off last week by new WWE Commissioner, Jesse 'The Body' Ventura, Bischoff was ordered to come up with a 'suitable' main event for this weeks Raw, and Bischoff certainly didnt disappoint. With a little under three weeks until Vengeance, The GM has given the two men set to face off for the World Championship a chance to put the other through their paces as 'Pick Your Poison' makes a return. The Number One Contender, Mister Kennedy will face an opponent chosen by the World Heavyweight Champion Christian, and vice versa. Which Raw superstars will be chosen to test Kennedy and Christian respectively?
While Mister Kennedy challenging Christian for the World Heavyweight Title will be THE main event at Vengeance, Eric Bischoff has been busy putting together a further TWO main event matches for Raws upcoming Pay Per View; Kurt Angle and John Cena will settle their issues once and for all in their rubber match, whilst Shawn Michaels will test his long running tormentor, 'Mister Money in the Bank' Umaga. Will there be any further developments in these long running sagas this week on Raw??
Elsewhere, The King of the Ring tournament will continue, as the first round of matches near their close. This week, Matt Hardy takes on Tyson Tomko, and the Straight Edge / MNM battles continue, as Greg Helms tackles Joey Mercury for a place in the Sweet Sixteen stage. Which two men will move one step closer to wrestling royalty?
Ever since the incredible revelations of Beth Phoenix and Melina, the Womens Champion, formerly known as Alexis Laree, now known to be Mickie James has been MIA. According to well placed sources close to Eric Bischoff, the General Manager has been unable to contact the champion, and no one knows of her current whereabouts. Rumours are now abound that this week on Raw, Mickie James will be either stripped of her championship, or put on notice. Regardless, a fatal four way has been signed, tentatively as a #1 Contenders Match - but could potentially be a match to crown a new champion. Victoria, Jillian Hall, Katie Lea and the wicked witch herself, Melina will compete. Will a new champion be crowned this week on Raw??
Also this week, Rhyno, after a long absence, returns to action. Two weeks ago, The Man Beast made a shocking return, Goring Rey Mysterio through a table - making a huge statement of intent. Last week, suspiciously, Rey Mysterio was found having been attacked again, this time by an unknown assailant. Was Rhyno to blame for this attack too?? Rey Mysterio will NOT be in Salt Lake City this week due to that attack, but Rhyno certainly will be.
It promises to be an enthralling edition of Monday Night Raw, with so many unanswered questions set to be resolved ... dont miss it.
I'll hopefully post the show by Tuesday night. No promises though
Being The Booker
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Behind Blue Eyes
Posts: 11,867
Re: Being The Booker
I got very excited. And I mean very.
The card looks intriguing. I'm almost certain that the Pick Your Poison matches will result in Christian/Angle and Kennedy/Cena, but Umaga could be thrown in there too, I suppose. The Straight Edge/MNM stuff is played out at this stage, but having singles matches in the KOTR just because they have chemistry is fine, while I'm interested to see what you have Rhyno say. My favourite storyline in here and possibly in BTB overall is the women's stuff though, so I really can't wait to see what happens there next.
Looking forward to the show, mang. Absolutely awesome to see you back.
P.S. Berbatov is a diving prick.
Wolf Beast
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Six inches from a computer screen
Posts: 5,319
Re: Being The Booker
Monday Night Raw | May 28 2007 | Salt Lake City UT
There is no highlights package, no opening video
and no pyro were kicking right off with the #1 Contender!! Mister Kennedy confidently walks onto the stage, ready to face an as yet, unnamed opponent, in the first of the Pick your Poison matches tonight.
Jim Ross:
You are looking at the man, that in twenty days time, will challenge for the Worlds Heavyweight Championship!! Tonight, it is Pick Your Poison, and we are kicking off with Mister Kennedy himself, going one on one with an opponent to be picked by Christian.
The Coach:
Just LOOK!! Look at the confidence, J.R!! Mister Kennedy is CONVINCED hes walkin outta Vengeance with the World title, baby boy!!! A change is-a comin, and not a moment too soon!!
Jim Ross:
We all know you havent been shy in your support of this man, but if Kennedy is to dethrone Christian, he will have dig down deeper than hes ever went before. Remember, Kennedy has NEVER challenged for a World Championship. Its a whole new world come June 17 in Oklahoma.
The Coach:
Enough of that, Kennedy knows EXACTLY what hes in for. Its your boy Christian that wont know whats hit him in three weeks time!!
Kennedy reaches the ring, and looks ready, moving his head from side to side, loosening up, waiting to see who his opponent is.
Jim Ross:
Kennedy has looked the part in recent weeks, Ill give ya that. Hes looked up to the challenge, but he has a big task ahead of him here. Which Monday Night Raw superstar has Christian found to tackle the Number One Contender??
There is a few moments of waiting, building the tension
And the fans ARENT disappointed!! Shawn Michaels enters to a huge reaction, and even Kennedy looks impressed - smiling and clapping in the ring - welcoming the stern challenge.
Jim Ross:
NOW!!! Now, Coach, were gonna find out just how good Mister Kennedy is. Shawn Michaels, arguably, the best EVER, one on one, and I do believe, this will be the first ever meeting between these two men!!!
The Coach:
History in the making, baby boy!!! Shawn Michaels is about to lose for the first time to Mister Kennedy!! I hope he makes him tap to the Krossface!!
Jim Ross:
What a way to kick us off tonight in Salt Lake City!! Kennedy and HBK, bah Gawd, this is what its all about!!! Both men need a win here, to give themselves a big boost heading into their respective matches at Vengeance as part of an unbelievable triple main event in twenty days time.
The Coach:
Shawn Michaels needs more than a win here, J.R. He needs an injury to get out of his retirement match against Umaga.
Jim Ross:
Retirement match?
The Coach:
Yeah. Dont think Umaga is gonna leave anything left in Shawn Michaels come Vengeance.
Match 1 | PICK YOUR POISON | CHRISTIANS CHOICE:
Mister Kennedy vs. Shawn Michaels
Kennedy goes right on the offence, wasting no time, attacking Michaels in the corner, with HBK having to cover up. The Showstopper hangs on, despite the fast start from Kennedy, knocking him down after an Irish whip off the ropes with the flying forearm, getting the fans off their feet with such a fast start to the show.
Michaels and Kennedy trade blows, with Kennedy firing back quickly after HBKs burst moments ago. Michaels though takes charge, reeling off a succession of chops in the corner, then looks for a whip to the opposite, but Kennedy reverses, and sends Michaels tumbling into the buckles, upside down, landing in a seated position on the top rope, with Kennedy then SHOVING HIM OFF TO THE OUTSIDE!!! HBK lands with a thud, as Kennedy smiles devilishly, wiping his hands, as the first commercial break of the evening kicks in
Commercial Break
And we return with Kennedy in charge, working Michaels on the mat, with clips from during the commercial of Kennedy hammering HBK on the outside, giving him no respite despite his sickening tumble out of the ring. Kennedy then scored two near falls with a backbreaker, then a neck breaker. Back live, Kennedy has a modified camel clutch applied, whilst still hammering HBK with crossface forearms, putting the hurting on his opponent, but Michaels doesnt even contemplate giving in, and in the end, the 2006 King of the Ring gives up on the submission, letting go.
Kennedy then shoves HBK into the corner, putting the boots to the legendary superstar, before stomping with Michaels sinking onto the canvas. Kennedy then backs up, takes a deep breath, then sprints to the corner FACEWASH!!! With a cocky smile, Kennedy drags Michaels out of the corner, making the cover, 1...2...NO!!! The facewash didnt get it done, but Kennedy remains confident, and continues to keep the pressure on, shoving Michaels back into the corner, hammering at him again, before attempting an Irish whip, but as Michaels rebounds, he ducks under Kennedys clothesline, then again off the other side. Kennedy then drops to the canvas, with HBK hopping over him, and stopping. Kennedy gets up, and turns around RIGHT INTO AN INVERTED ATOMIC DROP!!!
The Showstopper now begins to fight back, with a second atomic drop, before letting fly with knife edge chops, lighting up the chest of Kennedy, but the #1 Contender comes back by raking the eyes of Michaels. HBK doubles over, with Kennedy coming in with a knee lift, putting Michaels back down on the canvas. Kennedy now stalks, sizing Michaels up, looking for the Mic Check BUT HBK AVOIDS IT!!! Shawn runs Kennedy into corner, breaking free, and comes back again, throwing Kennedy off the ropes, and delivering a back body drop.
Kennedy struggles to his feet, and walks right into a small package, 1...2...NO!!! Ken is right back up, but is then subjected to a succession of arm drags, continuously walking right into the next, as Michaels begins to build up steam, taking the fight to Kennedy, but after the fourth arm drag, Michaels then sets himself, and looks to deliver a sudden Sweet Chin Music but KENNEDY GRABS THE LEG SPINS MICHAELS AROUND CLOTHESLINE!!! Kennedy gets a two, but cant put HBK away.
The #1 Contender drags Michaels back up, and shoves him into the corner, driving his shoulder into the gut of HBK, then attempts the Irish whip across the ring, but HBK hops up into the corner, and leaps behind the incoming Kennedy, who runs carelessly into the buckle, and staggers out, with HBK coming back at him again, planting Ken with right hands, then runs off the ropes but Kennedy side steps him, and chucks him over the top!!! Kennedy staggers away, trying to shake the cobwebs loose, but doesnt realise that MICHAELS HAS SKINNED THE CAT!!! Kennedy, thinking hes got time to get himself in order, turns around RIGHT INTO A DDT!!! The cover is made 1...2...NO!!!
Both men are down, laying side by side, with the referee beginning to administer a ten count when suddenly, Michaels NIPS UP!!! Much to the delight of the fans, Shawn looks revitalised, and HBK hits another stride, landing blows at will on Kennedy, and delivers a reverse neck breaker, getting a cover, 1...2...NO!!! Kennedy, looking shaken by the HBK comeback, stumbles up, and backward into the corner, with Michaels following in, mounting the corner, and hammering at Kennedy, with the fans counting along, to ten.
Michaels then drops down, with Kennedy staggering out of the corner, as HBK delivers a front slam, setting him perfectly for the Savage Elbow. Michaels exits the ring, and climbs the buckles, setting himself but Kennedy is up!! The #1 Contender tries to stop HBK, hopping up the ropes, hammering at the gut of Michaels, then attempts to position himself to deliver the GREEN BAY PLUNGE BUT MICHAELS ELBOWS FREE, THEN SHOVES HIM OFF the ropes and immediately DELIVERS THE FLYING ELBOW!!!
Salt Lake City is on its feet, as Michaels slowly gets back to his feet, and immediately signals for the SWEET CHIN MUSIC!!! Michaels begins to tune up the band, waiting for Kennedy to pull himself back to his feet and as the #1 Contender gets up HBK GOES FOR IT BUT KENNEDY DUCKS UNDER THEN TAKES HBK DOWN BY THE ARM AND SCRAMBLES FOR THE KROSSFACE!!! THE SUBMISSION IS APLLIED!!!!!
Michaels is caught!!! The Krossface is applied, with Kennedy cranking back looking for another big victory, but Michaels refuses to quit!! The Showstopper scratches and claws, trying to reach the ropes, and despite the best efforts of the #1 Contender, he is unable to stop Michaels from reaching out AND MAKING THE BOTTOM ROPE TO BREAK THE HOLD!!! Kennedy is furious, and breaks the submission, punching the mat in frustration, before dragging Michaels up by the hair, yelling in his face, before slapping him BUT MICHAELS INSTANTLY LOOKS FOR SWEET CHIN MUSIC BUT MISSES!!! Shawn turns around AND WALKS RIGHT INTO THE MIC CHECK!!! Kennedy hooks the leg, wasting no time whatsoever, 1...2...3!!!!!
Winner: Mister Kennedy @ 12:59
The momentum for Kennedy CONTINUES!!! The #1 Contender scores a massive, high profile win over HBK, as the #1 Contender continues to stamp his credentials on the road to Vengeance!!!
Jim Ross:
In the past three weeks, that man right there, has been on the winning end in matches against Rey Mysterio, John Cena and now Shawn Michaels. If ever one man was on the roll of a lifetime, its that man, Mister Kennedy.
The Coach:
I told ya, time and time again, baby boy. You, and every other so called expert wrote this guy off. I knew all along what Kennedy was capable of. Hes got a date with destiny in three weeks, and destiny for Mister Kennedy is becoming WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION!!!
Jim Ross:
He may never certainly get another chance like it. Right now, Kennedy is better than hes ever been, and this run has come at just the right time too. And youve gotta believe that backstage somewhere right now, the World Heavyweight Champion has sat up, and taken notice.
We see the victorious Kennedy exit the ring, and march up the aisle, with a smirk on his face, delighted with this win, whilst Shawn Michaels remains in the ring, pulling himself up on the ropes.
Kennedy reaches the top of the aisle, but just as he is about to exit through the curtain
Its an eerily similar situation to recent weeks. Shawn Michaels either worse for wear, or simply not ready for the Samoan Bulldozer. Lead out by the grinning Armando Estrada carrying the MITB briefcase, Umaga charges through the curtain, with the pair walking by Kennedy, and down the aisle.
Jim Ross:
Oh no. Not now.
The Coach:
Oh yeah, baby boy. Right now!!!
Umaga reaches the ring, climbing inside, with the already exhausted HBK shaking his head. Michaels though, doesnt want to wait for the inevitable attack, and launches himself at Umaga, throwing rights and lefts at the Bulldozer, but Umaga swats them off, AND RUNS THROUGH MICHAELS WITH A CLOTHESLINE!!!
It doesnt look good for HBK, with Mr. Money in the Bank standing over him, grabbing his arm, and dragging him to the corner, setting up THE RUNNING BUTT SPLASH!!! Shawn Michaels slumps on the mat, as Estrada is seen sliding the Money in the Bank briefcase inside the ring, and instructing Umaga to use it.
The savage beast lifts the briefcase, hoisting it in the air, letting out a massive roar, then runs toward Michaels as he gets back up AND WHACKS MICHAELS ACROSS THE FACE WITH THE BRIEFCASE!!! With the impact, Michaels tumbles through the ropes, and to the outside.
Jim Ross:
DAMN IT!!! ENOUGHS ENOUGH!!! What the- what the hell are you doing??
No, its not Coach that J.R is speaking to its Armando Estrada. The handler of the undefeated Umaga is in the midst of taking apart the announce table, throwing the cover off, and removing the monitors, as Umaga exits the ring, and stands over HBK. Estrada then gives Umaga a call, and points to the steps, wanting them closer to the announce table.
The Samoan Bulldozer does as he is told, moving the steps with relative ease, before refocusing on Michaels, picking up the briefcase again, and clubbing it across the back of HBK. Umaga then drags Michaels toward the announce table, as Estrada is heard over commentary saying, Ju might want to move gentlemen.
Estrada then beckons Umaga to the steps, with the savage doing as he is asked, bringing the lifeless HBK with him. Umaga stands on the bottom step, and stands Shawn up on the second, before hoisting him up in the air SAMOAN SPIKE THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE!!!
Michaels is folded up like an accordion, amongst the rubble, with Umaga standing on the steps, looking down at his broken foe, whilst J.R is in shock, calling for immediate help. With the fans in all kinds of hysterics, including a faint HOLY SHIT chant from a few sections, Estrada gets on the mic, and raises a finger with each word
Armando Estrada:
Estrada smiles, putting his hand down, looking around at the fans in the front row.
Armando Estrada:
Pero, last week, ju made the biggest mistake, of jure LIFETIME!!! Ju made THEEE SAAAAAA-MO-AN BULLDOZER MAD!!!
Estrada stops smiling, and holds up his fingers as he counts
Armando Estrada:
Still immobile, HBK remains on the floor, amongst broken bits of table.
Armando Estrada:
Like I said last week hombre up until now, this MONSTER has been
with ju. But not ANYMORE, HA HA!!!
Heat for Estrada, as he looks down on the broken body of HBK.
Armando Estrada:
Still smiling, Estrada steps back, and addresses the fans.
Armando Estrada:
Ju people might be wondering why Im counting, eh?? Allow me to
(thinks of the word)
EXPLAIN!! Ju see mi amigos, I got word earlier today from Meester Bischoff that my Samoan Bulldozer wont just be facing Shawn Michaels in an ordinary match at Vengeance. No, no, no. At Vengeance, my Umaga will be facing The so-called Showstopper in a LAST MAN STANDING MATCH!!! HA HA!!!
Big response from the fans, excited for the Last Man Standing stipulation for Vengeance. Estrada waits for them to die down, nodding, before continuing.
Armando Estrada:
And tonight, Umaga has given this little man a preview. The legendary Shawn Michaels career is officially on como se dice? LIFE SUPPORT, HA HA!!! He cant even answer the count tonight.
Estrada moves back to HBK again, ignoring the heat from the fans, as he holds up a solitary finger, looking down at the lifeless HBK
Armando Estrada:
Heat for Estrada, who smiles, and nods, taking out a cigar from his top pocket, and snapping it in half symbolically, before dropping it onto HBK.
Umagas music plays again, as Armando nods at his savage, calling him down from the steps, walking away from the carnage, with AAE picking up the briefcase, and carrying it out, as Umaga follows behind, with medics rush past both men, in order to tend to HBK, as we cut to a commercial.
Commercial Break
We return, straight to ringside, where J.R and Coach are sat at a hastily set up wooden table, as we still see remnants of the original table, which was shattered moments ago.
Jim Ross:
We are in a state of shock here, folks. Our announce table has been demolished moments ago, its chaos out here at the moment. But more important of course, is the health of our WWE superstars, and right now, Shawn Michaels is being transferred to a local medical facility. Thankfully, he was able to leave on his own power, albeit with help from our on hand medics, but luckily, The Heart Break Kid didnt have to be stretchered out of this arena.
The Coach:
Its kinda hard to feel sympathy for the guy, when he brought it all on himself, old timer. He started this issue, and he forced it to escalate to this point, because of his actions last week.
Jim Ross:
Defending himself?? Thats what you call escalation?? What was he supposed to do?? Let that savage beat him up at will??
The Coach:
Look, Im entitled to my opinion. I dont give you grief when youre blindly defending your favourites every week, regardless of how low they stoop.
Jim Ross:
You get more deluded every week. Ladies and Gentlemen, the fact of the matter is that Shawn Michaels was on the end of yet another callous assault at the hands of Umaga tonight. In less than three weeks time, those two will finally settle their issues, on Pay Per View in Oklahoma-
The Coach:
Oh, I knew youd shoehorn that in somewhere.
Jim Ross:
And we now believe it will be in a Last Man Standing match. Coach, I dont have a good feeling about that one.
The Coach:
No, I dont want to visit Oklahoma either, but the WWE is a worldwide brand.
Jim Ross:
Thats not what I meant.
To a good reaction, Matt Hardy enters the stage, saluting the fans.
Jim Ross:
Well, Vengeance is still three weeks away, but we have a show right here, right now, and right now, the King of the Ring tournament will continue!! This is the first of two first round matches this evening, between Matt Hardy and Tyson Tomko, whilst later this evening its Straight Edge versus MNM again, this time, with Greg Helms taking on Joey Mercury!!
The Coach:
And aside from King of the Ring action, weve also got a number one contenders match for the Womens title tonight!! Four divas battling it out for a shot at the MIA Mickie Dont call me Alexis Laree James.
Jim Ross:
Indeed, still, no word from Mickie James, ever since the revelations from Melina and Beth Phoenix, but later tonight, Eric Bischoff WILL update us on that situation. And of course, having already saw Mister Kennedy defeat Shawn Michaels, the World Heavyweight Champion, Christian, will be in action, in the second Pick Your Poison match, facing a competitor of Kennedys choosing. A huge night in store, folks.
Joined by X-Pac, Tyson Tomko enters the arena to minimal fanfare, as he prepares to make an assault on the KOTR tournament.
Match 2 | KING OF THE RING TOURNAMENT | ROUND OF 32:
Matt Hardy vs. Tyson Tomko w/X-Pac
Being a pest at ringside early on, X-Pac is quickly sent to the back, much to the chagrin of Tomko, but Matt sees an opening with Tomko distracted, and gets the upper hand early on. Hardy scores a few near falls in the opening exchanges, but Tomko utilises his power to take over, and has Matt in trouble. Hardy though, displays his fighting spirit, hanging on, surviving Tomkos assault, and makes his own comeback, scoring a near fall off the Side Effect.
Hardy then looks to deliver the second rope leg drop, but misses and it seems the momentum has shifted to Tomko, who scores a razor close two count from a Pumphandle Slam, with Hardy JUST kicking out. Tomko then sets himself, waiting for Matt to reach his feet, and looks for the BIG BOOT but Matt ducks under, then kicks Tomko in the gut TWIST OF FATE CONNECTS!!! Hardy hooks the leg, 1...2...3!!!
Winner: Matt Hardy @ 05:59
Hardy, flying mightily high, scores another great win, and advances to the round of sixteen in his quest to become King of the Ring. Hardy has his hand raised, and salutes to the fans, looking delighted.
Jim Ross:
We are looking at one of the main contenders for this years King of the Ring, Coach. Matt Hardy is on a roll right now, much like Mister Kennedy, and the timing couldnt be better. Imagine how big it would be for Matt Hardy if he could become the 2007 King of the Ring!!
The Coach:
Itd be big for him but itd be a disaster for the rest of the world. Could you imagine that insufferable idiot running around with a crown and sceptre??
Jim Ross:
Oh come on, Coach. Can you be impartial for once??
The Coach:
Can you??
Jim Ross:
(Ignoring the question)
Folks, still to come tonight, The World Heavyweight Champion is in action, facing an opponent of Mister Kennedys choosing. Its Pick Your Poison, and its our main event, tonight!!
Commercial Break
Backstage, Matt Striker (replacing Todd Grisham as the Raw backstage interviewer, with Grisham now calling Superstars, if you didnt notice last week) is standing by.
Matt Striker:
Good evening ladies and gentlemen, I am Matt Striker, and with me at this time, is The Miz.
Looking ever the jerk, The Miz steps into view.
Matt Striker:
Now Miz, last week, we all saw you being thrown out of the building by Commissioner Ventura, with Ventura seemingly shutting down your self titled Reality Check. However, later in the evening, you defied the Commissioner by getting an exclusive interview of sorts from Eric Bischoff. Tonight, I believe you have asked for this time to announce what the future holds for your Reality Check.
Self satisfied, The Miz nods, looking smug.
The Miz:
Thankfully Matt, Eric Bischoff isnt a caveman like Jesse Ventura. Eric Bischoff is a revolutionist. He knows you cant just stand still, and keep everything the same. What Im trying to do here on Raw, is add something that we havent had around here in a long time. The Reality Check is keeping the Raw roster on its toes. If it hadnt been for me?? Katie Lea and Harry Smith would still be keeping their relationship a secret from Paul Burchill. And if I hadve just folded up my tent last week and gone home like ol Jesse wanted me too?? We wouldnt have the awesome Pick Your Poison matches tonight.
The Miz points to himself, taking the credit.
The Miz:
Ive got the Raw roster on its toes, Matt. Guys like Mark Henry cant stand around and pick their nose anymore, in case Im filming it. The so called Straight Edge superstars CM Punk and Greg Helms?? Theyve had to stop drinking before their matches, in case I rumble them. I am single handedly changing this business and its all with a little handheld camera and a dose
of reality
Smiling broadly, Miz continues.
The Miz:
Now Matt, you might be wondering Wheres the camera?? Wheres the cameraman?? Well Ive changed my style up this week. The superstars of Monday Night Raw are now all on the lookout to see if Im filming them so, with that in mind, I decided to do a bit of CCTV this week. Earlier today, I found a nice little corner of the divas locker room, and set that bad boy up and while Mister Bischoff couldnt permit me to show the
bits I did get a little bit of footage worth showing
Miz turns Strikers attention to the monitor beside them, and the camera focuses on it.
The grainy footage begins to play, just like recent weeks, as Melina stands, trying to talk to a clearly agitated Beth Phoenix, who paces up and down the room.
Beth, youre starting to freak me out, okay. Please, just sit down, and relax, please.
Phoenix stops, but glares at Melina.
Beth Phoenix:
I need to see her, Mel. I need to look that bitch in the eye. Why isnt she here again tonight?? Huh?? You promised me Mickie James, Melina, y-
I know I did. And you WILL get your wish honey. But lets face it, Mickie James is the womens champion. Youve literally only just arrived on Raw. As talented as you are, Eric Bischoff wont be giving you a shot at the belt until youve really earned it. So the quickest way for you to get a piece of Mickie James is for her to lose the womens title. Thats why I need you out there with me again tonight. See to it that I get my shot at Mickie at Vengeance, and once I get the title back around my waist bingo. Theres no reason why Eric Bischoff cant give you the chance to get your hands on Mickie James.
Beth doesnt respond. She looks to be thinking it over, and eventually nods.
Beth, all you need is to be patient for just another few weeks. Then?? Then, youll get the revenge youve been dying to get for five years.
Beth nods, before bringing up a solid point
Beth Phoenix:
What if she never comes back??
Melina is stumped by the question.
Look I know shes in hiding. I know shes a gutless coward but even I dont think shell just relinquish the womens title.
Beth Phoenix:
The womens title?? I dont give a damn right now about the womens title I just want to put my hands on that rats throat, and squeeze every last gasp of air she has in that worthless body. If she doesnt come back?? God help every woman on this roster including you.
Beth storms off, slamming the door, as we come back live, to where Miz and Striker and standing, watching, with The Miz smiling in approval at his hidden camera segment again
Commercial Break
Pitch black, until the voiceover begins
Some have been wronged
Slow silent shot of Kurt Angle, roaring in anger.
Some have been doubted
Silent shot of Mister Kennedy, victorious last Monday night on Raw.
Some have crossed the line
Silent shot of a sobbing Mickie James.
Yet some have yet to scratch the surface
Silent shot of Umaga standing over Shawn Michaels.
Still silence then a sudden rush of crowd noise
But on this night, NO act goes unpunished
Shawn Michaels firing up, gritting his teeth.
The wrongs can be righted the doubters can be silenced
John Cena and Kurt Angle exchanging blows Mister Kennedy and Christian locking eyes at the close of Raw on Monday.
Lines can be crossed and the boundaries can be forgotten
Flashing shots of high flying risks from Shelton Benjamin, Rey Mysterio, Matt Hardy & Straight Edge.
For on this night VENGEANCE will be served
Vengeance logo flashes across the screen.
Back into the arena and ERIC BISCHOFF appears on the titan tron, to a mixed reaction from the fans, who still are unsure of how to react to the Raw GM.
Eric Bischoff:
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. In just a moment, you will see four of the premiere divas on the Raw roster battle it out for a shot at the WWE Womens Championship at Vengeance on June 17. Now, as you all know the current Womens Champion, Mickie James is for lack of a better word AWOL.
Mixed reaction for the MIA womens champ.
Eric Bischoff:
Now, I can appreciate that Ms. James is currently going through a lot of personal problems, but this is now the third consecutive week that our womens champion has failed to do her job. That withstanding, there is of course, the small matter of the Thirty Day rule. Mickie James last defended her championship on May 7 - exactly twenty one days ago. If I so wished, I could enforce that ruling, nine days from now but due to my kind hearted nature-
Bischoff pauses, allowing a few fans to call bullshit on that claim.
Eric Bischoff:
Im going to grant Ms. James a stay of execution. Im allowing Mickie James to take the next couple of weeks to get herself together, get her mind clear, and return at Vengeance.
Bischoffs smile quickly fades.
Eric Bischoff:
But- if our esteemed Womens Champion fails to show on June 17 in Oklahoma?? One, shell be stripped of the title, and whomever the number one contender is this evening will be declared the new champion and Two- Mickie James wont have the option as to when she can come back Ill see to it that she IS FIRED!!!
Bischoff lets the stipulation sink in for a moment, before smiling - disingenuously - as he fades from the tron
Jillian Hall enters to little more than moderate heat, ahead of this womens contest
Jim Ross:
What a bombshell from Eric Bischoff. Not only will Mickie James be stripped of her title at Vengeance if she fails to appear, but Bischoff will FIRE the tormented Womens Champion too!!
The Coach:
Its the least she deserves. Personally, I wouldnt even give her the opportunity to come back. Bischoff has gone soft, J.R!! Six months ago, hed have stripped that little hussie of the title, fired her on the spot, then make this match for the vacant title.
Jim Ross:
I think Bischoff has weighed up the situation, Coach. Firing Mickie James at Vengeance would be a little extreme if you ask me, but stripping her of the Womens championship seems about the only option he has. Just where is Mickie James??
Victoria makes her way out, with the fans giving the former champion heat also.
Jim Ross:
Coach, three of these four women, vying for a shot at the title have been champions before. Victoria, is a former two time champion herself, but it has been THREE years since she last held the gold.
The Coach:
She had a big opportunity last month at Backlash, but fell just short. Victoria though has shown a lot of hunger again recently, and her experience in these matches could be vital.
On her own, Katie Lea Burchill enters the stage to a generous ovation, with the opportunity to earn her first shot at the womens title.
Jim Ross:
As we said, three of these four women have been champions before - only Katie Lea Burchill has yet to hold the gold. Could this talented young woman become the first English Womens Champion in WWE history??
The Coach:
Well, shes spent a lot of time with her tongue down Harry Smiths throat recently, if you ask me, she probably cant wait until this match is over so she can go back to doing that again.
Jim Ross:
Well, we havent seen a whole lot in the ring from Katie Lea since arriving on Raw, so this could be a huge opportunity to make a mark.
Joined by the imposing Beth Phoenix, Melina gets the red carpet treatment, with the fans showing her plenty of hatred, for her recent actions, ruining the life of Mickie James.
Jim Ross:
Melina has made it her goal to make Mickie James life a misery. She tried to blackmail her into laying down to hand her the womens title and now, she has brought Beth Phoenix to the WWE to expose her past. If Melina wins tonight, she could well profit at Vengeance, should Mickie James fail to return.
The Coach:
And even if Mickie does come back, what frame of mind is that lunatic gonna be in?? Melina will make mince meat outta her!!
Jim Ross:
She should be ashamed of what shes done.
The Coach:
Amen to that.
Jim Ross:
I meant Melina.
The Coach:
Oh. I meant Mickie James because yknow shes got something to be ashamed of.
Match 3 | #1 CONTENDERS MATCH - WINNER FACES MICKIE JAMES AT VENGEANCE
Jillian Hall vs. Victoria vs. Melina w/Beth Phoenix vs. Katie Lea
Messy, clunky four way, with no alliances between any of the four divas. The four trade blows, with plenty of broken near falls throughout. Victoria begins to take control of the match, calling on her superior experience, but with the added numbers in the match, Victoria cant get the win, with her pin attempts being constantly broken up by other competitors. She eventually has a clear ring, and delivers the Widows Peak to Jillian, and makes the cover, but the outside influence of Beth Phoenix prevents her picking up the win, with Beth pulling Victoria out of the ring!!!
Victoria is furious, and attacks Phoenix with a forearm, but Beth overpowers the veteran diva, and slams her into the ringpost!!! In the ring, Melina looks to pick up the scraps against Jillian, but Katie Lea re enters, and battles it out with Melina!! Jillian is knocked out of the ring during the brawl, and Katie gets the better of Melina, before running off the ropes ONLY TO HAVE HER LEG TRIPPED BY PHOENIX!!! Katie stumbles forward, RIGHT INTO THE PATH OF MELINA WHO DELIVERS THE PRIMAL SCREAM!!! Melina hooks the leg tightly, 1...2...3!!!
Winner: Melina @ 05:11
Melina gets her way, and thanks to the help of Beth Phoenix, she challenges Mickie James for the Womens Championship at Vengeance!! Beth joins Melina in the ring, as the #1 Contender has her hand held in victory.
Jim Ross:
Something about this just doesnt sit right with me Coach. Im not even talking about Melina being assisted by Beth Phoenix here. This whole situation is just extremely uncomfortable. Melina is the reason Mickie James may never return. The womens champion has been hounded out by this jezebel, and next, she may have to relinquish her title to her too.
The Coach:
And rightly so. Melina can bring back some honour, and dignity to the womens title. Melina wont be taking a leave of absence when the chips are down - that I guarantee you, baby boy.
Jim Ross:
Ill take your word for it, Coach. I just hope, I hope, that Mickie James can sort out her problems by June 17. Not just for her title reign but for her career.
Focus quickly changes backstage where KURT ANGLE, not dressed to compete, makes his way down a hallway
Jim Ross:
There he is ladies and gentlemen, the man that meets John Cena in less than three weeks in Oklahoma as part of the epic, triple main event at Vengeance, Kurt Angle - and hes coming right this way!! Well be right back, folks!!
Commercial Break
Back live
To a mixed initial reaction, followed by overriding heat as ever, Kurt Angle steps onto the stage, and makes his way down the aisle.
Jim Ross:
On June 17 at Vengeance, that man, Kurt Angle will meet John Cena, in one of the most personal rivalries in recent times to surface on Raw. Tonight, Angle isnt in action, but it would appear the Wrestling Machine has something to get off his chest.
The Coach:
Hey, you dont think Mister Kennedy has got Angle to face Christian tonight?? They worked pretty well together last week if you ask me, and what a coup that would be for Kennedy, to get someone on the level of Kurt Angle to teach Christian a lesson!!
Jim Ross:
He could well be, but thats all speculation. What isnt speculation though, is that this ongoing issue between Kurt Angle and John Cena will come to a head on June 17, in as Kurt Angle calls it;
environment. In the past two meetings, they have competed in a No Holds Barred match at Backlash which Cena won to eliminate Mister McMahon from television, and then, on Raw Roulette three weeks ago, Kurt Angle evened the score in a First Blood match; matches in which Kurt Angle has claimed he was at a disadvantage.
The Coach:
And hes right, old timer. John Cena is a common street thug - Kurt Angle on the other hand is a world class technician, a true grappler, a true
And on June 17, John Cena is gonna get the toughest lesson of his career.
Jim Ross:
John Cena has been in the ring with Angle, in Angles environment before, Coach, and he more than held his own. As a matter of fact, you and I both know that Cenas first match in the WWE was against Angle. Cena, as a rookie, gave Angle the fright of his life in that match-
The Coach:
Angle took him lightly!!
Jim Ross:
Kurt Angle doesnt underestimate anyone, Coach. And regardless of what he says about Cena, he wont be taking him lightly at Vengeance.
Angle stands in the ring, with a mic in hand, and waits for the music to stop.
Kurt Angle:
Ive got something I want to say to someone. John Cena-
Cheap kiddie / female pop.
Kurt Angle:
Get out here, and lets have a man to boy conversation.
Angle walks to the ropes, leaning over, looking up to the stage, and waits.
And waits
Cue split reaction. John Cena steps onto the stage, dressed as casual as ever, but doesnt stop at the stage, and instead continues on down the aisle, looking to have this confrontation face to face. Cena slides inside, with Angle standing aside, watching, whilst Cena glares at his arch rival, before looking away to ask for a mic from Lillian Garcia.
The music fades, with Cena and Angle standing across the ring from one another, neither backing up, as Kurt brings his mic to his mouth slowly.
Kurt Angle:
How ya feeling??
Cena doesnt respond, thinking that Angle is trying to goad him.
Kurt Angle:
Okay. I didnt realise that beating last week took away your vocal chords at the same time.
Cena shows a fake smile, with Angle showing a slight grin at his minor quip.
John Cena:
Look, cue ball, you called me out here for a face to face. You wanna start crackin jokes, I dont mind crackin skulls.
Generally positive pop for the intense comeback. Angle though, doesnt take kindly, and the initial smirk has gone.
Kurt Angle:
See, thats the thing about you Cena. People always credit you for your bravery, and your lack of fear. I dont see it that way. Personally, I just think youre too stupid to know any better.
Angle inches in closer to Cena, who doesnt get too angry, but closes in, letting Angle know he isnt intimidated.
Kurt Angle:
Yknow, we could stand out here all night, trading insults, and reminiscing about old times, back when you were little more than a glorified ring rat. But thats not why I called you out here. Cena, over this past week, Ive been doing a lot of thinking about our match at Vengeance-
John Cena:
Too late for you to back out now, homie.
Kurt keeps his head down, but shows a broad smile, before moving on, ignoring the barb.
Kurt Angle:
And as much pleasure as Id get teaching you a lesson straight up, one on one, where I thrive Ive got a proposition. Ysee, as far as Im concerned, our issue has rumbled on way too long for my liking too long to just settle the score in a straight match. That simply wouldnt be fair for you.
Cenas jaw tightens at the insult, as Kurt pauses for a moment to allow a smattering of boos for himself.
Kurt Angle:
No, instead I want to put something to the test. What is it you say?? You
nothing?? You
Off the mic, Cena instantly responds; DAMN STRAIGHT!!
Kurt Angle:
Well, like a said a minute ago, I put it down to stupidity rather than fearlessness but as for regrets?? Well see.
John Cena:
Cena snaps. The pro-Cena portion of the audience eat it up, and cheer for their hero, whilst Angle smirks again.
Kurt Angle:
As if to prove my point for me, Cena. You accept?? Before you can even hear the challenge??
John Cena:
Did I stutter??
Kurt Angle:
No. I guess I shouldve expected that. Well Cena, since youve already accepted, youve made my next question pretty redundant. But still you say you never give up either, isnt that right??
John Cena:
Yeah, thats right. And its true.
Kurt Angle:
Oh yeah, because last week you didnt give up when you got caught in that Krossface, am I right??
Cena nods.
Kurt Angle:
Thats right, because instead, you just decided to pass out, rather than submit. You might have some of these people fooled Cena, but not me. Last week, you QUIT!! You couldnt face fighting on, you didnt want to try and make another reach for the ropes, so you just GAVE UP!!!
Heat for Angle, as Cena looks ready to boil over, and comes nose to nose with Angle, who seems to be loving it.
Kurt Angle:
You allowed yourself to pass out, Cena. You know it, I know it, and deep down, so do these brainwashed sheep in Utah-
Cheap heat.
Kurt Angle:
And on June 17 in Oklahoma, Im gonna prove it. Cena, like I said earlier, as much as it is to my advantage, a straight up one on one match isnt what I really want. Because you simply wouldnt last long enough to make it worth it.
Kurt smiles again, as he eyeballs Cena.
Kurt Angle:
And since youve already accepted, I look forward to picking apart your body for THIRTY LONG MINUTES!!
Mixed reaction from the fans, but Kurt hasnt finished
Kurt Angle:
But thats not even the best part. Cena, after seeing you fold quicker than a deck of cards last week I want those thirty minutes to be contested in an ULTIMATE SUBMISSION MATCH!!!
Not necessarily a pop from the fans, but more OOOHs with Angle putting Cena in a pretty big disadvantage. Cena though, stands tall, showing no fear of the match.
Kurt Angle:
The way I see it Cena, as much as an advantage itd be for me in a straight wrestling match, Ill have an even bigger advantage in this environment and Ill get much, MUCH more pleasure of torturing you for thirty minutes and not only will I torture you at Vengeance Cena but Ill expose you for the fraud you truly are, when you tap and keeping tapping, over and over, BEGGING me for mercy but Cena, there will be no mercy only
Angle drops the mic, and turns to leave, but Cena grabs his arm, and spins Kurt around, getting RIGHT into his face
John Cena:
Look into my eyes, Kurt LOOK AT EM!!! Imma say this once, and once only, and once I have, you WILL KNOW its not a catchphrase, but from the heart I FEAR NOTHING and I REGRET LESS!!! I NEVER back down and I will NEVER GIVE UP!!!
Huge pop from the fans.
John Cena:
You think Imma run from a thirty minute Ultimate Submission match?? Think again, because Ive gone SIXTY minutes with the very best, and Ive SUBMITTED the toughest, time and time again!!! And Kurt, come June 17, YOU WILL JOIN EM!!!
More cheers for intense Cena.
John Cena:
And when its all said and done VENGEANCE WILL BE MINE!!!
Cena shoves his mic into the chest of Angle, taking Kurt by surprise, and storms out of the ring, looking fired up, and raring to go right now, charging intensely back up the ramp, as his music plays again through the arena, with Angle watching, realising hes got a huge fight on his hands at Vengeance.
Jim Ross:
My Gawd, Coach, could Vengeance be any more stacked right now?? Before we went on the air tonight, we knew of the huge Triple Main Event set for June 17, but one hour into this broadcast, and weve saw TWO huge developments; first, Shawn Michaels and Umaga will meet in a Last Man Standing match, and now, Kurt Angle and John Cena are gonna go at it in a Thirty Minute ULTIMATE Submission match!!!
The Coach:
I cant believe it, J.R. Have we ever saw a Raw exclusive Pay Per View as stacked as this???
Jim Ross:
The great fans of Oklahoma have had to wait for a long, long time to get a Pay Per View event, and by Gawd, that wait will be more than worth it with the line up thats coming to them in three weeks time!!!
The Coach:
What the hell did they do to deserve a Pay Per View, let alone one as stacked as Vengeance is gonna be??
Cena turns as he reaches the top of the stage, and looks back down the aisle, pointing to Angle, with the pair trash talking from afar, with the intensity between the warring pair simmers, as we fade out.
Commercial Break
We return with clips of the Angle/Cena confrontation moments ago, before coming back live to ringside
Jim Ross:
Im still trying to take this all in folks. In addition to the Last Man Standing Match that has already been added to Vengeance, we will now see Kurt Angle and John Cena mix it up in a thirty minute Ultimate Submission match. It simply doesnt get any bigger or better, Coach.
The Coach:
And its all gonna be happening in some barnyard in Oklahoma, filled with idiots covered in Barbeque Sauce, wearing silly cowboy hats!!!
Jim Ross:
Your ignorance has no bounds, Coach. And if I were you, Id watch what youre saying about the great city and state of Oklahoma.
The Coach:
Why?? What are they gonna do?? String me up and spit roast me over a fire over burning tires?? They wont know about any of this, itd require them to have a television set!!
Jim Ross:
I cant wait to see the reaction you get in twenty days time, partner. And folks, thats not all. Of course, the Womens Championship is scheduled to be defended, with Melina becoming the number one contender this evening. However, the continued absence of Mickie James could see the championship forfeited on June 17, and automatically handed to Melina.
The Coach:
Which, after all the trouble Mickie James has caused for everyone, would be justice if you ask me.
Jim Ross:
Vengeance truly is shaping up to be a classic, Coach. A Triple Main Event, the Womens Championship set to be defended, and surely more to come too in the coming weeks. But Coach, right now, Id like to go back to last week, where a mystery assailant attacked, and hospitalised Rey Mysterio.
The Coach:
Well, it was no accident, THATS for sure.
Jim Ross:
And Im pretty sure who the culprit was too.
The Coach:
Dont jump to conclusions J.R!! You know as much as I do. Youre not a detective, you cant accuse people based on assumptions.
Jim Ross:
Rhyno has already attacked Mysterio two weeks ago. Who else has a motive for attacking him?? Because of that assault folks, Rey Mysterio isnt here tonight, under doctors orders, but we believe he WILL be here next week. Get well soon Rey. Right now though, I believe Kelly Kelly is standing by with the chief suspect
Cut to Kelly.
Kelly Kelly:
Thank you, J.R. Thats right, Im standing by with Rhyno, who is set to make his in ring return, after a six month lay off. Rhyno-
Rhyno rips the mic from Kelly, scaring the bejesus out of the young blonde.
This is a dangerous place for you to be, sweetheart. You might want to think about getting as far away from me as possible.
Kelly doesnt need warned twice, and hurries off.
Just to make something clear, I didnt intend for there to me any mystery as to who attacked Rey Mysterio last week. Youre right J.R IT WAS ME!!!
Heat for Rhyno, who quickly continues.
When I got INJURED, I was in a tag match with Rey Mysterio. REY was supposed to be my friend- MY PARTNER, and he didnt give a rats ass how I was. ALL he cared about was having the fans on his side. I got injured and had to tag out of the match. Somehow, with me out of the equation, Rey fought the odds, and went on and won the match and after he had his hand raised, what did he do?? HUH?? WHAT DID YOU DO REY!!??
Getting highly agitated, the wild eyed Rhyno continues.
Did ya check on your buddy?? Did you come to check on how your old pal Rhyno was doing?? DID YOU?? YOU DIDNT!!! You just cared about celebrating with your fans!!!
Rhyno damn near foams at the mouth, getting really worked up.
He wasnt the only one though. I expected more from Rey. But NO ONE, not ONE person called to check on how I was. I wasnt even ACKNOWLEDGED on television. No Get well soon, or Have a speedy recovery NOTHING!!! My bosses, the boys in the back, not even the fans cared about how I was NOT ONE!!
The Man Beast breathes heavily down the mic for a second, trying to calm down.
My wellbeing was the last thing on everyones mind. Just like it was the last thing on Mysterios mind, when he overcame the odds in our tag match that night. As long as he had the admiration of the people, his real friends didnt matter. HE JUST LET ME ROT!!!
After the intensity, Rhyno lets out a brief chuckle.
Yknow whats ironic?? Now Rey?? YOUR WELLBEING IS THE LAST THING ON MY MIND!!!
Rhyno growls into the camera, before shoving it away, and charges off
Back in the arena, Scotty Too Hotty is in the ring, having just saw the previous promo, and looks a tad worried, knowing whats coming to the ring
Rhyno wastes no time, and RUNS down the aisle, wanting to get right back at it, having been out of the ring for six months
Match 4 |
Rhyno vs. Scotty Too Hotty
Scotty is simply a human crash test dummy here, and takes a severe beating. Rhyno completely overwhelms the now resident jobber, obliterating the master of the WORM, with Scottys offence consisting of defensive punches, which do nothing to prevent Rhyno from mauling him. The Man Beast doesnt even attempt a pin during the beat down, preferring to just continue the hurting, before finally putting Scotty out of his misery with THE GORE!!! He hooks the leg, and the count is an elementary 1...2...3!!!
Winner: Rhyno @ 02:07
Rhyno is back, and hes back in impressive fashion. The Man Beast pulls his hand away as the official attempts to raise it, with Rhyno instead leaning over the ropes, getting the attention of the camera, and reiterating YOURS AND EVERYONES WELLBEING IS THE LAST THING ON MY MIND, REY!!, before getting out of the ring, and aggressively charging back up the aisle.
Jim Ross:
The Coach:
Hey, dont jump on the guys bandwagon now, J.R. After months of ignoring my questions on how he was coming along with his recovery from injury, you cant start pretending to care about Rhyno now.
Jim Ross:
You didnt ask about the guy once. Of anyone, youd be the last person that would ask about Rhynos wellbeing, and yknow how I know that?? Because that question doesnt involve anything about you!!
The Coach:
No need to get so defensive. Just admit you were wrong, old timer.
Jim Ross:
Boy oh boy, that is an angst ridden tank of a man, right there. Rhyno is back with a bang, folks. Hes got a lot of pent up frustration, and it appears he wants Rey Mysterio to be on the receiving end of most of it.
The Coach:
If Mysterio has any brains, hell be on the phone to Mickie James right now asking for a hideout.
Commercial Break
Clip of Bret Hart rolling up Bam Bam Bigelow to win the King of the Ring tournament in 1993.
Narrator: It has given the platform for champions to establish themselves.
Clip of Owen Hart being crowned King of the Ring in 1994, as we hear him yell over it.
Narrator: It has immortalized greats forever.
Clip of Stone Cold Steve Austin winning the 1996 King of the Ring tournament, with the sound bite over it.
Narrator: It ushered in the birth of a new attitude.
Clip of Triple H having his hand raised in 1997.
Narrator: Stars have been born.
Clip of Kurt Angle dropping to his knees in victory in 2000.
Narrator: Legends have been made.
Clip of Brock Lesnar having his hand raised in 2002, as we hear Paul Heymans voice over the top.
Narrator: Careers have skyrocketed.
Clips of Mister Kennedy with the crown last year, and Edge with his trophy in 2001
Narrator: The King of the Ring tournament has provided some of the most memorable moments in sports entertainment history, and on Saturday, June 23, 2007 the King of the Ring lends itself to another staple in the illustrious history of the WWE Saturday Nights Main Event.
Clips of current superstars, Shelton Benjamin, MVP, Matt Hardy, Jeff Hardy, Straight Edge, Brian Kendrick, Paul London, MNM, Carlito and Brent Albright.
Narrator: The year, the King of the Ring tournament climaxes on NBC, with quarter finals, semi finals and the grand final, on the most special edition of Saturday Nights Main Event in history!!!
Quick clips again of the prominent former winners.
Narrator: Which superstar will use the King of the Ring tournament to follow these legends, icons and immortals into the pantheon of greatness??
Backstage, Matt Striker is standing by
Matt Striker:
Ladies and Gentlemen, the excitement is building, with the first round of the King of the Ring tournament now nearly complete, the competition has really begun to take shape. Right now, I am standing by with one of the men that will be part of the Sweet Sixteen; one step away from Saturday Nights Main Event and the closing stages of the tournament. That man is Matt Hardy. Matt??
Matt steps into view, getting a good reaction from the fans.
Matt Striker:
Matt, tonight, with a victory over Tyson Tomko, you booked your passage to the Second Round of the King of the Ring tournament, and now you will meet the winner of the match later tonight between Greg Helms and Joey Mercury. Given your recent run of victories, including a non-title win over the Intercontinental Champion himself, Shelton Benjamin, do you believe you are peaking at the right time, with the King of the Ring tournament requiring a run of five consecutive victories to be crowned King??
Matt Hardy:
Matt, being drafted to Raw two months ago was like a breath of fresh air for my career. Just at a point where it seemed like things were beginning to stand still for me over on Smackdown - regressing even - a move to pastures new was just what I needed. Thanks to the draft, Ive regained belief in myself. Belief- that I can climb to the top of the mountain. And there is no better way to prove your credentials than by becoming King of the Ring.
Pop from the fans.
Matt Hardy:
When I came to Raw, I said it would be a long road to the top, and it will be. But mark my words, Ill make it!! Step by step day by day Im gonna work my ass off to get there. And my first step to the top of the mountain is becoming the 2007 KING-
No prizes for guessing who owns that voice Theodore Long, joined by The Brotherhood.
Theodore Long:
Lemme holla at ya playa!!
Long puts his arm around Hardys shoulder, making Matt uncomfortable.
Theodore Long:
Playa, we at the Brothahood admire your tenacity, and your passion. But playa
Theodore cracks up, and laughs, slapping the shoulder of Matt hard.
Theodore Long:
Youre a DAMN FOOL!!!
Hardy pulls away from Long, as the rest of the Hood stand by Theodore.
Theodore Long:
Playa, aint nobody gonna crown you King o the Ring. Because there is only ONE crown jewel in the W-W-E, and playa, dats the Black Diamon hisself, THE Intercontinental Champ; Shelton Benjamin!!!
Benjamin steps forward, with Long putting his arm around the I.C Champions shoulder.
Theodore Long:
And it will be this man that is crowned King o the Ring at Saturday Nights Main Event. Ya feel may playa??
Hardy shakes his head in disagreement.
Matt Hardy:
I beg to differ, Teddy.
Long scoffs at the rebuttal.
Theodore Long:
to diffa?? Listen up college boy, the only thang you will be beggin for, is for Tha Black Diamon to stop smashin your pretty boy face inta mince meat!! If you make it far enough in tha tournament to meet dis man, all your hopes, dreams and aspirations are gonna come crashin down playa. Ya got lucky against Shelton ONCE!!! Lightnin dont strike twice, ya dig??
Showing no fear, Hardy steps forward, talking to Teddy, but staring a hole through Benjamin.
Matt Hardy:
Ive beat your boy once and I can - I WILL beat him again. In the King of the Ring tournament and if the opportunity arises for the Intercontinental Title!!
Shelton flips the belt off his shoulder, and shoves Matt, with Matt shoving back, before Theodore tries to break it up with Monty and JTG, as Mark Henry steps forward, trying to intimidate Matt.
Theodore Long:
Playa, ya just made a life altering decision, ya feel may?? You put your hands on one member of tha Brothahood?? Playa, ya put ya hands on ALL tha Brothahood.
Just in the nick of time, its Eric Bischoff. The Brotherhood back off, with Theodore grinning at the GM.
Theodore Long:
Mista Bischoff, MY PLAYA!! Eric, ya look great tonight p-
Eric Bischoff:
Cut the crap Teddy.
Long is quickly put into his box.
Eric Bischoff:
I was planning on speaking to you all at some point a little later, but since weve got this meeting here, why wait?? The fact is Teddy, this man, Matt Hardy has a victory over your client, the Intercontinental Champion. And last week, Matt was instrumental in his teams victory in the six man tag against your boys. Weve got a little under three weeks until Vengeance, and as of yet, we havent got a challenger for Sheltons title.
Theodore Long:
But, uh, Mister Bischoff, if ya dont mind, ma boy here, hes got a lot of focus right now on tha King of the Ring, ya feel may??
Eric Bischoff:
Oh, I feel you Teddy. If Shelton wants to focus solely on becoming the 2007 King of the Ring, he can hand over the Intercontinental Title right now.
Bischoff makes a move toward Shelton, but Teddy steps in front, laughing it off.
Theodore Long:
Now, now, theres no need for dat playa. If you want Shelton here to defend his title at Vengeance, dats no problem.
Eric Bischoff:
Tremendous. Well, Shelton, get yourself ready, because at Vengeance, youre putting that title on the line, against Matt Hardy!! Good evening, Gentlemen.
Bischoff then storms off, having made his point, leaving Matt Hardy with a huge grin on his face, nodding at The Brotherhood, as he backs off. Meanwhile, Shelton turns, and slams his palm against the wall in frustration. The camera momentarily shifts away, as we see MISTER KENNEDY standing by the group, with JTG noticing him first, before tapping the arm of Theodore, who spins around, with the remainder of his group also turning to Kennedy. The Number One Contender smirks at the group.
Mister Kennedy:
Just as things are about to get more interesting
Back to ringside
Match 5 | KING OF THE RING TOURNAMENT | ROUND OF 32:
Greg Helms vs. Joey Mercury
On commentary, it is revealed that after last week, tonight, Bischoff has banned all outside presence. The two men put together a quick tempo contest, full of near falls, and quick counters. Helms ramps up the excitement of the match with a daring cross body from the top rope to the outside onto Mercury too, but by the time he recovers and gets his opponent in the ring, Mercury is able to kick out of a cover.
Helms then misses a corner splash, allowing Mercury to take over, and has Helms in trouble, forcing one half of the tag champions to dig deep to stay in the contest, and in turn, the KOTR tournament. Eventually, Helms makes a comeback, but Mercury avoids the Nightmare on Helms Street, eventually rolling Helms up, but only scoring a two count. He then charges Helms, but Greg hot shots him off the top rope, and quickly DOES deliver the Nightmare on Helms Street, hooking the leg, 1...2...3!!!
Winner: Greg Helms @ 06:46
Itll be a battle of the Carolinians in the round of sixteen, as Greg Helms books a meeting with Matt Hardy in the King of the Ring tournament. Helms replicates last weeks Straight Edge-MNM showdown, with another win for the tag team champs over their biggest adversaries.
Jim Ross:
Its yet another loss for MNM against the World Tag Team Champions, and for the second week in a row in singles competition!! MNM are OUT of the King of the Ring tournament!!!
The Coach:
I dont know what to say, J.R. I love MNM but what the hell is going on with these guys?? WHY cant they beat Straight Edge???
Jim Ross:
I think it has been proven once and for all that Straight Edge in just about every area, are simply better than MNM. And now, just four men on the Raw side of the draw have yet to begin their King of the Ring journey. Next week, Harry Smith of the British Lions meets the Intercontinental Champion Shelton Benjamin, and Rey Mysterio will meet Santino Marella AND, we are just getting word here, that Eric Bischoff has ORDERED that next week, Umaga will meet Paul Burchill!!
The Coach:
WOW!!! I didnt expect that!!
Jim Ross:
That second round match was scheduled to take place in TWO weeks, but now, after Umagas actions tonight, the General Manager has decreed he will be in action next week, and its a big test - BOTH MEN are undefeated in singles competition. NEITHER man has been pinned or made to submit. Next week, one man will taste defeat for the first time in their careers!!!
The Coach:
My, oh, my. Thats huge J.R. And its next week!!!
Jim Ross:
Indeed, it is next week, but we are far from done here tonight. Still to come, is the man event. Mister Kennedy handpicks an opponent for the World Heavyweight Champion. Christian will be in action, but who will be his opponent??
Commercial Break
Backstage, for little more than a few seconds, Mister Kennedy is spotted once again, this time conversing with SANTINO MARELLA(?), along with Marellas eye candy; Leyla and Layla.
Back to ringside
Jim Ross:
Looks like the number one contender is keeping his options open, Coach.
The Coach:
Hmmm. Not so sure how wise it would be to consider Santino Marella mind you. HEY, KEN!!! If you can here me, The Coach is ready, willing and able, baby!!
Jim Ross:
Good luck with that.
To little reaction, CODY RHODES enters the stage, alone, after shaking off his mentor / older brother, last week, Goldust.
Jim Ross:
Well Coach, last week, this young man turned his back on his older brother - the man that has tried to guide him in recent weeks, with a sickening attack on Superstars.
The Coach:
Guide?? That idiot Goldust has been holding this kid back!! If anything, Cody Rhodes has regressed since he started taking the advice of that Gold freak!!!
Jim Ross:
There are ways and means, Coach. If Cody wasnt happy, he couldve told Goldust. He couldve went about it the right way - but what he done was reprehensible.
In the ring, Cody holds a mic, waiting for a moment, before proceeding.
Cody Rhodes:
For those of you who didnt see Superstars last Tuesday, take a look at this
X-Pac & Tyson Tomko defeat Goldust & Cody Rhodes, with Goldusts antics distracting Cody, and eventually leading to their loss. Then, after the match
Cody Rhodes is helped to his feet by Goldust. Rhodes stumbles backward into the ropes, holding his face, selling the effects of his beat down. Goldust tries to console Rhodes, but Cody shoves him away, yelling at him LEAVE ME ALONE!! IM SICK OF YOU MAKING A MOCKERY OUT OF ME!!
Goldust puts his head down, shaking his head for a minute, before looking up again at Cody, and moves in for a hug to try and diffuse the situation BUT CODY KICKS HIM IN THE GUT!!! Goldust doubles over, but an incensed Rhodes shows no remorse, and grabs his brother by the face, shouting at him IVE WANTED TO DO THIS FOR THE LONGEST TIME!! then turns him over, AND DELIVERS THE CROSS RHODES!!!
Theres a lot of heat for Cody, but the youngest Rhodes shows no guilt, getting to his feet, dusting himself down, and casually exits the ring, leaving Goldust on the canvas.
Back in the ring, the younger Rhodes has a smile on his face.
Cody Rhodes:
Im aware that many of you were upset at my actions. But let me ask this. Have any of you got siblings?? If you do, then youll understand that they can get on your nerves from time to time
On commentary, J.R sarcastically mutters Oh, well that makes it ok then
Cody Rhodes:
And my whole life, my elder brother, the man you people know as Goldust has been making my life a misery No, he didnt bully me as a child he has simply been an embarrassment my whole life.
Small amount of heat.
Cody Rhodes:
Can you imagine the abuse I had to put up with in school, listening to my friends talking about Goldust?? Hey Cody, I saw your brother making out with Ahmed Johnson last night on Raw!! Hey Cody, your brother was soooo funny last night.
Try a living nightmare. My brother made watching professional wrestling impossible for me when I was younger.
Cody pauses.
Cody Rhodes:
But as embarrassing as it was to watch Dustin bring shame to my family, its hard to place
the blame on him alone. I mean, after all, look at the man he followed. The American
Dusty Rhodes
The son of a plumber
The fattest, most God awful looking piece of trash to ever step foot in a wrestling ring. But you people loved him, because to you, he was just like you. An everyman if you will. Or should I say if ya
Rhodes shakes his head in disgust.
Cody Rhodes:
A lot of people just assume I came into this business because its in my blood. Because I was inspired to follow in the footsteps of my father, and my big brother. No, no, no. I broke into this business to
my family. When I-
Smattering of boos.
Cody Rhodes:
When I first chose this path, all I ever got from promoters, fans, and peers was the same crap. Oh, youre Cody
?? Wow, youve got some big shoes to fill kid. Hey kid, your old man was the greatest. I loved watching Dusty tear it up with the Nature Boy back in the day. Dusty was a legend, kid. He was just like one of us!!. Goldust is hilarious. I bet you do a great impression.
Another pause.
Cody Rhodes:
I dont do an impression of Goldust. And I dont intend on filling my old mans boots. After the nauseating CRAP I had to take, and STILL have to take, the thought even crossed my mind to use a different name. Cody Roberts, Cody Russell hell, I even thought about going under the name of Cody Christmas. Anything to remove myself from following in the footsteps of those who came before me.
Another smattering of heat for Cody.
Cody Rhodes:
But instead, Ill use the Rhodes name. NOT to follow in The Fat Mans footsteps. NOT to be linked to my brother but like I said to SPITE them. Im here in the WWE to restore some PRIDE to the Rhodes name in professional wrestling. Im here in the WWE to eradicate the memories of Dusty Rhodes prancing around in Polka Dots. Im here to make you people forget about The Bizarre One from this moment on, and in years to come, when you think of the name RHODES youll not smile, you wont laugh you wont think about the American Dream, and you wont wax lyrical about the antics of Goldust. Youll simply think of me Cody RHODES.
The music plays, as Cody stands static in the ring, looking as serious as he was throughout the promo, looking around at the audience, before taking his time to exit the ring.
Jim Ross:
Coach, the mission statement is clear. Cody Rhodes is out to change the perception of the Rhodes name in the world of wrestling. And that makes me sick to be perfectly honest. That young man should be embracing his families history. His father is in the Hall of Fame!! The man has a case for having his own wing in the Hall of Fame!!
The Coach:
But when its all said and done, and this kids career is over, he WILL have his own wing in the WWE Hall of Fame - no question. Stop living in the past, stop living in the eighties old timer. Dusty Rhodes was just a fat son of a plumber!! This is the new millennium!! Cody Rhodes is ready to change the outlook on his families history in this business - and I dont blame him!! Who the hell would want to follow in the footsteps of a Gold painted freak?? For Cody Rhodes this business is serious - his family has made a mockery out of it for two decades - but not anymore!!! GOOD FOR YOU CODY!!!
Jim Ross:
Im gonna find you some old video tapes, and you can see how much of an embarrassment that Son of a Plumber is for this stuck up kid.
The Coach:
What the hell is a video tape?? Save your energy, and get with the times partner.
Jim Ross:
If getting with the times is having your outlook on life Coach, Ill stay in the nineties, thank you.
The Coach:
Its the eighties. Youre stuck in the eighties J.R.
Backstage, we see CHRISTIAN walking down the hallway, dressed to compete, ahead of the main event, coming up next PICK YOUR POISON!!
Jim Ross:
Ladies and Gentlemen, there he is!! The World Heavyweight Champion, and he is in action, NEXT!!! Who has Mister Kennedy found to take on Christian?? Pick Your Poison, is coming, when we come back!!!
Commercial Break
We return, with The Killers Move Away blaring in the background.
Jim Ross:
We are fast approaching Raws next Pay Per View event, and Coach, I cannot believe how loaded, Vengeance is already. A TRIPLE main event is coming Oklahoma, the kind of line up we can normally only dream of, and the first of those THREE blockbuster main events is Shawn Michaels and the undefeated Umaga.
The Coach:
In a Last Man Standing match no less, J.R!! In all his years in this business, Shawn Michaels has NEVER come up against an opponent like Umaga, never has he encountered the kind of threat that Umaga brings and worryingly for all HBK fans out there, after June 17, Shawn Michaels may never meet an opponent like Umaga ever again, if you get me.
Jim Ross:
Indeed, Shawn Michaels has been on the end of countless assaults from Umaga in recent months, but has it all simply been building to something much, MUCH worse in Oklahoma in just under three weeks time?? And while things could get ugly in the barbaric Last Man Standing environment the battle for the Intercontinental Title could be a show stealer in its own right. Matt Hardy challenges Shelton Benjamin, and dont forget Coach, Hardy already has a victory over The Black Diamond!!
The Coach:
And its the only one hell get!! Matt Hardy is talented, but hes not a natural born winner like my boy, Shelton Benjamin!! The Intercontinental Title is in The Brotherhood for keeps baby boy, get used to it!!!
Jim Ross:
And what a challenge for John Cena. Tonight, he accepted a challenge from Kurt Angle to meet in a Thirty Minute, Ultimate Submissions match at Vengeance!! Cena has heart, he has tenacity, and above all else, he has that STFU in his arsenal but surely the odds are in the Olympians favour??
The Coach:
Of course they are!!! Cena has that STFU?? Big deal, Kurt Angle can pull out the Ankle Lock at will and much, much more!!! You thought Michael Flately could tap?? You wait till you see John Cena on June 17!!!
Jim Ross:
Very Nineties reference from a modern day man, Coach but how about the Womens Title?? Melina is the new Number One Contender, and should Mickie James fail to show on June 17, she will be stripped of the title, and the championship goes to Melina. The wicked witch of Hollywood seems to be getting everything she wanted but will she get it at Vengeance??
The Coach:
If theres justice, she will. Melina should be praised for what shes done in exposing Mickie James. Instead, youve been treating her like some sort of evil she-devil!!!
Jim Ross:
Well the shoe fits Coach. Melina has shown she will stoop to any level to reclaim the Womens title, but what lengths will Mister Kennedy go to in order to take the biggest prize in the game?? What lengths will Christian go in order to keep it?? At Vengeance, well find out. Christian defends the World Heavyweight Championship against Mister Kennedy!!!
The Coach:
Its the 2006 King of the Rings first crack at the gold - and thats all hell need - ONE shot. History will be made at Vengeance, J.R, Mister Kennedy - the NEXT World Champ!!!
Jim Ross:
Its twenty days away. Its all comes from Oklahoma, and its only on Pay Per View!!!
And to a thunderous response, Christian strides onto the stage, looking relaxed and as confident as ever, looking far into the crowd, pounding his chest, before making his way down the aisle.
Jim Ross:
Just who will take on Captain Charisma?? Which Raw superstar has Mister Kennedy coerced into representing him here tonight??
The Coach:
I hear there was a queue the size of the entire hallway outside Mister Kennedys locker room today. The Raw locker room have all been looking a shot at the biggest name on the roster. Imagine what a win over the World Champion can do for your credentials!!
Jim Ross:
Indeed, that should be the incentive for anyone with aspirations. A shot to hang with the World Heavyweight Champion should be what spurs everyone on, and Christian will undoubtedly welcome the challenge, Coach!!
Christian reaches the ring, and prepares himself, waiting on his opponent.
There is a few moments of waiting, building the tension
Confusion reigns over the arena, with Christian even looking slightly perplexed as to whats going on.
Jim Ross:
Can- Can Kennedy name
as Christians opponent??
The Coach:
I love it J.R!! Hes gonna show Christian first hand what to expect on June 17!!!
Smiling, Mister Kennedy stands on the aisle, with a mic in hand, trying to hush the fans with his hand.
Mister Kennedy:
Okay, okay hush kiddies.
Kennedy smiles, as the fans pick up a little more, giving the #1 Contender more abuse.
Mister Kennedy:
Calm yourself, Champ, its not me youre facing. No. Instead, I want to give my representative the kind of introduction only
can deliver so WITHOUT FURTHER ADO I GIVE TO YOU MY POISON YOUR OPPONENT SANNNNNNNTINOOOOOO MARELLLLLLLLLAAAAAAA!!!!!!
Buzz kill.
Christian is almost in disbelief - a funny kind of disbelief - as Santino charges onto the stage, flanked by Layla and Leyla, as Kennedy claps his poison. Santino then continues down the aisle, but as he reaches ringside
Mister Kennedy:
The music slowly dies down, as Kennedy shakes his head.
Mister Kennedy:
Yknow Christian theres always been something I found very funny about the rules for this Pick Your Poison gimmick theyre very vague. I mean you pick my opponent, I pick yours. Very simplistic, dont ya think?? I mean I dont remember the rules stipulating if I could choose a opponent or opponent-
Devilishly, Kennedy grins.
Mister Kennedy:
Ysee Christian you got me all wrong. You pegged me as nothing more than an irritant. The Challenger of the week a loudmouthed, over opinionated pest. And at Vengeance, youre gonna take great pleasure in shutting my mouth, and putting me back in my place. Like I said last week youve got me all wrong.
In the ring, Christian listens intently.
Mister Kennedy:
Cocky?? Sure. Brash?? A little. Arrogant?? Maybe. Ive got a lot to say for myself, and maybe Ive got too much to say but dont write me off as simply that. Because Im smart too. Im sneaky, and Im very VERY clever, as youre about to find out. You honestly think Id test you by choosing
Santino Marella?? Oh boy, youre WAY wrong. Like I said, no one ever said I could only name ONE measly opponent for ya
Right on cue, The Brotherhood; led of course by Theodore Long, makes its way onto the stage. Shelton Benjamin, Mark Henry, Monty Brown, and JTG all pass Kennedy, and saunter down the aisle, with Christian realising hes in BIG trouble. Long shakes hands with Kennedy on the top of the ramp, as Kennedy shouts over the music.
Mister Kennedy:
In case you need telling Christian this is FIVE ON ONE and just like when you face me at Vengeance I dont like your odds.
Kennedy chucks the mic away, as The Brotherhood reach the bottom of the ramp, just as we go to the final commercial of the night.
Jim Ross:
Oh my how can Christian defeat these odds??
The Coach:
He cant!! He needs to concentrate on surviving!!!
Jim Ross:
He may just have to but can he even do that?? Well find out, right after this
Commercial Break
We return with The Brotherhood surrounding the ring, along with Marella, whilst Christian tries to remain alert in the ring, pacing around, waiting for someone to strike. Meanwhile, Kennedy is giddy on the ramp, rubbing his hands together, having outsmarted Christian.
Christian stays on his toes, waiting for the inevitable onslaught AND SANTINO SLIDES IN FIRST!!!
Main Event | PICK YOUR POISON | MISTER KENNEDYS CHOICE:
Christian vs. Santino Marella & The Brotherhood
Christian instantly stomps the wimpy Italian, before quickly hammering JTG off the apron, then turns, ducking a clothesline attempt from Henry, and tumbles the biggest man out of the ring through the middle rope, before knocking Brown down with a clothesline. Shelton Benjamin then hammers the champion from behind, and backs him into the ropes, but Christian reverses the whip, and delivers a back body drop on the return, before clotheslining the I.C Champ over the top rope.
The champion then backs Monty into the corner, and lets fly with right hands, before sending him across the ring, into the opposite corner, following in with a running splash. Christian then dumps Monty out of the ring, and looks around seeing only Santino in the ring, and stalks him down, getting Marella into position for the reverse DDT BUT JTG ATTACKS CHRISTIAN FROM BEHIND!!! JTG pounds at Christian, trying to keep him down, calling for reinforcements, with Shelton climbing back inside the ring to help.
Benjamin and JTG hammer the champion, then send him off the ropes with a double Irish Whip BUT CHRISTIAN DUCKS A DOUBLE CLOTHESLINE THEN DELIVERS A FLYING CLOTHESLINE OF HIS OWN!!! The champion knocks both men down, with the fans getting behind the outnumbered champion, fighting the odds. Christian sends JTG into Benjamin, then throws JTG back out of the ring, toppling onto an unsuspecting Monty Brown, taking both out of the equation, before turning his attention back to Shelton, and knocks the IC Champion down with a dropkick.
Knowing time isnt on his side, Christian again looks to Marella, attacking the weakest link of his opponents, and easily gets him hooked up FOR THE UNPRETTIER BUT MARK HENRY CLATTERS INTO CHRISTIAN!!! Christian, unable to defend himself, having been too busy hooking his arms for the Unprettier, is easy prey for the near 400 pounder, and Henry rag dolls Christian, clubbing the champions back, whilst JTG and Monty Brown both re-enter the ring. Now, ALL of the Brotherhood are in, and the foursome take turns to attack Christian in the corner, with Santino also pulling himself together to add to the attack.
On the aisle, Kennedy is loving what he sees, as Benjamin connects with a Stinger Splash in the corner, whilst Monty and JTG pick Captain Charisma back up, and set him in the corner again for Mark Henry WHO CHARGES IN FOR A BIG SPLASH BUT CHRISTIAN SLIPS OUT HENRY HITS THE BUCKLE AND CHRISTIAN DELIVERS THE SEESAW KICK AT THE ROPES!!! A glimmer of hope for Christian BUT INSTANTLY Brown and JTG stop the momentum, leaping Christian, and taking the champion down.
Mark Henry shakes the cobwebs, and gets angry and takes his frustrations out on Christian, hammering down the champion, clubbing wildly at him, before being dragged off by his three Brotherhood cohorts. As the trio try to calm down the big man, Santino kneels down, and pounds at Christian, enjoying his chance to attack the champion. He then gets up, celebrating wildly, despite the match not being over yet AND CHRISTIAN SURPRISES HIM WITH A SCHOOL BOY 1...2...SANTINO JUST KICKS OUT!!!!!
It turns out to be the final action of a desperate man, as The Brotherhood quickly attack him again, and this time, DONT take their eye off the ball. All five men take turns to hammer the champion, mercilessly taking him apart, before Mark Henry takes over, scooping Christian up AND CRUSHES HIM WITH THE WORLDS STRONGEST SLAM!!! The match could easily be won at this point, but instead, Shelton orders Christian to be stood up, with JTG doing the dirty work, hauling the lifeless champion up AND ALLOWS SHELTON TO DELIVER PAYDIRT!!!
STILL, no cover is made, as the group then look to Monty Brown, and DEMAND a Pounce, with Brown only too happy to accept. Mark Henry effortlessly picks Christian up, pushing him to the corner, before sending him out INTO THE POUNCE!!!!! Now, it seems like enough is enough as Benjamin takes a look around, and points to Christian, waving it off, as all five men gather in around the champion, putting a foot each on for the cover, which Mike Chioda mercifully makes - quickly, 1...2...3!!!
Winners: The Brotherhood & Santino Marella @ 05:55
And Mister Kennedy wins the Pick Your Poison battle. The Brotherhood are victorious, despite a valiant effort from the champion, whilst Santino celebrates like he just won the World title. On the stage, Theodore shakes Kennedys hand, and we hear him say to the #1 Contender Remember the deal now playa. My boy gets the first crack at tha title when you win it, as it becomes clear what the bargaining chip was that Kennedy used to get The Brotherhood on board.
Kennedy then makes his way down the aisle, as The Brotherhood and Marella exit the ring, passing the #1 Contender, who nods at each man, grateful for their efforts this evening. Cockily, Kennedy enters the ring, smiling broadly, as Christian slowly comes to, writhing on the canvas. Kennedy looks down at Captain Charisma, before looking to the outside, and calls for a mic, AND the World title belt.
Both objects are handed to the ring, with Kennedy picking up the mic before the belt, and takes a moment to stare at the prize - his holy grail - before turning his attention back to Christian. The #1 Contender stands eerily over the champion, and slowly brings the mic to his mouth
Mister Kennedy:
You still lookin past me now??
Kennedy bends down, shoving the belt in the face of Christian.
Mister Kennedy:
Im deadly serious when I say Im taking this belt at Vengeance. Now?? Now you know Im serious.
Heat from the fans.
Mister Kennedy:
And now you better start taking me seriously
Kennedy drops the mic on Christian, then raises the belt symbolically, raising the ire of the fans, before dropping the gold onto the torso of the champion, as his music plays into the arena.
Nonchalantly, the #1 Contender exits the ring, and makes his way up the ramp, as Christian tries to get up, but can only crawl toward the ropes. Kennedy reaches the top of the aisle, and turns, looking back to the ring, where Christian is pulling himself up on the ropes, looking toward his #1 Contender now looking furious, gritting his teeth finally realizing the threat of Mister Kennedy??
Current Card for WWE Vengeance:
17th June 2007
Ford Centre, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Event Music:
The Killers, Move Away
World Heavyweight Championship Match:
Christian vs. Mister Kennedy
30 Minute Ultimate Submission Match:
John Cena vs. Kurt Angle
Last Man Standing Match:
Shawn Michaels vs. Umaga w/Armando Estrada
WWE Intercontinental Championship Match:
Shelton Benjamin w/Theodore Long vs. Matt Hardy
WWE Womens Championship Match:
Mickie James vs. Melina
Being The Booker
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Behind Blue Eyes
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Re: Being The Booker
RAW Feedback
Staring off with Kennedy right from the beginning is a nice move, getting the guy youre really pushing in our face right from the start. Michaels as his opponent is a nice choice too, making for a good match (sidenote: Coachs commentary here was great, and it really showed how you o the little things like the commentary so much better than anyone else). Im surprised Kennedy dominated for so much of the match, but its probably for the best, as this match is all about Kennedy gaining more momentum. The finish, which was very nice, showed exactly that, giving Kennedy a good clean victory after some good counters. Michaels, meanwhile, obviously doesnt look weak, as he put up quite a fight. A good first match to keep Kennedys momentum at a high ahead of his world title match at Vengeance.
The attack from Umaga after the match was, like it has been all along, really well done. Again, Umaga is allowed to look like an absolute beast by savaging Michaels, while Shawn stays looking good due to Umaga only attacking him when hes weak. Im not so sure about the Samoan Spike through the announce table, as a Samoan Drop may have more impact for that type of move with the table, even if the spike is Umagas finisher, but the attack and the post-match promo from Estrada, announcing the match with Michaels at Vengeance as a Last Man Standing Match and already declaring Umaga the winner, was very good once again. The Last Man Standing Match seems fitting for Vengeance, and should be a great stipulation, while this attack was another good one to keep the feud going.
@ Coach not wanting to visit Oklahoma. As I said, the best commentary writing in the section by far.
Simple win to keep Matts momentum going since arriving on RAW as he moves along the KOTR tournament, while Tomko continues his losing streak. Simple booking that keeps both men going with their respective storylines.
Nice little promo from Miz, with a few good little comedic bits by having him push that real reality type persona with the typical dick type attitude of Miz. Phoenix wanting at Mickie instead of caring about Melinas aspirations is interesting, because it opens the possibility of them not getting along and Phoenix going out on her own. A nice promo to keep things open with that feud and remind us that Phoenix is after Mickie on a personal level.
Vengeance is looking to be shaping into a pretty good card, with three big matches at the top of it. Looking forward to it.
Nice stipulation to add to Mickies title match at Vengeance to make sure she shows, making it seem basically like her life against her career. Nice to see Bischoff still having his dickish side too, despite being portrayed as more of a face after assisting in the removal of Vince from television.
Melina getting the win was obviously the right way for this match to go, although I liked the interference from Beth on top of that, proving not only that she can be a force at ringside, but how strong she is by having her destroy Victoria on the outside.
A little surprised to see a promo confrontation between Angle and Cena since it has generally been a feud about action, but I dont mind it. Angle calling Cena out straight away is pretty much expected, because Angles not the type to just stand out there and talk a lot of trash. Good to see Cena being intense right from the beginning too, making sure the confrontation stays serious, rather than having the joking Cena coming out and taking the promo away from what the feud is about. Angle trying to change things up is interesting, with the arrogance with which he spoke being good, along with the intensity from Cena in accepting the stipulation before Angle even mentioned it. The speech by Angle calling Cena a quitter was something different too, but he transitioned it all well, before the Ultimate Submission Match announcement. Its not a match that I think Ive ever seen in another BTB, but I really like this stipulation. Its different, it plays on Angle wanting a match to his strengths, and its been explained really well here in this promo. My only concern is that Im not a fan of having too many gimmick matches on the one card, but I guess two isnt too many, although any more would be pushing it. Angle talking about what he wants to do to Cena in picking him apart in the Ultimate Submission Match was done well, while Cenas retort was typical, yet well written, along with the little Vengeance lines, that were cleverly put in there to make for an intense end to the promo. A bit surprised we didnt see Cena try to get the STF-U on to finish the promo, but this was still a pretty great promo all the same, keeping the intensity at a high in this feud. Good stuff.
Vengeance is indeed looking like a good card. Nice little plug for it here, along with some moore of the good stuff from Coach.
Another good, intense promo, this time from Rhyno. Rhynos probably at his best when hes scary and paranoid like this, so I like the idea of turning him into a real loner. The speech about how no one cared for him when injured was good, while the imagery of saying he was left to rot was nice too. The end of the promo was good too, tying the whole thing up well, while also making Rhyno sound really dangerous in the process.
Good way to hammer home how dangerous Rhyno is with a squash match here, really making him look like a beast in the lead up to the inevitable match between Mysterio and Rhyno at Vengeance.
Matts still my pick for KOTR. Is him cutting a promo after the hype video just too much of a coincidence?
Matt giving his typical speech about how hes headed for the top was fine, before the interruption from Long to seemingly continue the little bit of friction between Hardy and Benjamin. Longs speech was great, with some clever wordplay, before the gauntlet was laid down by Matt. While it hasnt been an awe-inspiring feud, things have been kept simple here, and the announcement of the title match from Bischoff comes as no surprise. Another solid addition to the Vengeance card, which has shaped up quite nicely. Not too sure what to think of Kennedy hitting the scene to close the promo, although I wouldnt mind another Shelton/Christian match, as that was quite the match back at RAW Roulette.
Helms getting the win was to be expected, although thats not a bad thing. Nice way to continue Straight Edge looking dominant over MNM, possibly leading to something else for MNM. Not so sure whats next for Straight Edge, as no teams seem set to step up to make the challenge, so maybe a bit of work on the tag team division is what is needed next.
Good little hype for next weeks card, which is already looking good.
Gail Kim coming back now is interesting, because right now it seems like she may get lost in the shuffle, with everything else that is happening in the womens division, unless Melina beats Mickie and she feuds with Melina, while Beth and Mickie feud.
Kennedy talking to Marella erm, okay? That doesnt seem like much of a choice.
Surprised to see Cody getting some mic time on RAW, not that its a bad thing; in fact, I think its a really good thing. Cody breaking away from Goldust and attacking him is good to see, because hes obviously better off without him. The way Cody talked down on Goldust, speaking of his embarrassment was done well, although what came next really surprised me. Having Rhodes talk about his father in this manner is a really good cheap heat tactic though, and the way he explained himself, again, seemed good, making his actions at least logical in his mind, which is what a heel should do. The whole idea that hes there to put pride into the Rhodes name and that hes going to be the one you associate with it was a nice way to end the promo, really showing what Cody is all about. Im not too sure how seriously he can be taken at this stage, as hes looked very weak thus far in this thread, but this isnt a bad start for the new Cody.
Another good plug for Vengeance, which, like I said, is looking like a good card.
While Im not sure Santino Marella is necessarily needed in this situation, the idea of having Kennedy stack the odds by finding a loophole in the rules to show how dangerous he and clever he can be is clever, and a good way to add another dimension to the already vicious and brash Kennedy. The match itself was written really well, using the hope spots well, while allowing for the right result to happen. The final statement from Kennedy to Christian was a good way to cap it all off.
This show pretty much sums up why the section needs you. While theres perhaps nothing groundbreaking there, the booking all of the way through is spot on, while the match and promo writing is something EVERYONE should be taking a look at so they can learn. As much as this will sound like me just sucking up, its great to see you back, and I really hope it lasts, because I really enjoy reading your work. Great stuff, mang.
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