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The World Wrestling Entertainment
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G0dm4n V2.0
Getting ignored by SCOTT STEINER
Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 669
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
11. World Heavyweight Championship:
Randy Orton
vs. Batista ©
10. WWE Championship; Triple Threat Match:
John Cena vs. Kurt Angle vs.
9. Interbrand Spectacular:
Rob Van Dam vs.
The Undertaker
8. No Holds Barred Match:
Triple H
vs. Shawn Michaels
7. United States Championship; Three Way Dance:
Chris Benoit
vs. Orlando Jordan vs. Booker T ©
1. World Tag Team Championships:
The World's Greatest Tag Team vs.
Kane & Big Show
5. WWE Tag Team Championships:
The Hardy Boyz vs.
6. Women's Championship:
Mickie James
vs. Trish Stratus ©
3. Cruiserweight Championship:
Rey Mysterio
vs. Kid Kash ©
2. Money in the Bank Ladder Match:
Gregory Helms vs.
Mr. Kennedy
vs. Carlito vs. Paul London vs. Ric Flair vs. Finlay vs. Chavo Guerrero vs. Mark Henry
4. Singles Match:
Bobby Lashley
vs. John 'Bradshaw' Layfield
Bonus Points
1. What will be the match order? -
2. How many titles will change hands? - 4
3. Which match will be the longest? - Triple H vs Shawn Michaels
4. Which match will be the shortest? - Bobby Lashley vs JBL
5. Who will be eliminated first in the Three Way Dance? - Orlando Jordan
6. Who will take the fall in the Triple Threat Match? - Kurt Angle
7. Will there be any surprise appearances by people who have not been seen on screen for some time? If so, then by who? -
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Money in the Bank.
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: QLD, Australia.
Posts: 1,804
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
World Heavyweight Championship:
11 -
Randy Orton
vs. Batista ©
One title will change hands, and it has to be this one because Edge won't lose.
10 - WWE Championship; Triple Threat Match:
John Cena vs. Kurt Angle vs.
Edge ©
You'll wanna be different and continue to build Edge.
Interbrand Spectacular:
8 - Rob Van Dam vs.
The Undertaker
You're a pussy. You won't end the streak. Taker wins.
9 - No Holds Barred Match:
Triple H vs.
Shawn Michaels
Shawn will win to make up for Taker winning
1 - United States Championship; Three Way Dance:
Chris Benoit
vs. Orlando Jordan vs. Booker T ©
The other two are shit.
2 - World Tag Team Championships:
The Worlds Greatest Tag Team
vs. Kane & Big Show ©
As above.
7 - WWE Tag Team Championships:
The Hardy Boyz
vs. MNM ©
I think you'll go The Hardyz to continue things here. You'll obviously be wanting to do a Ladder Match or a TLC match between the two down the track and a Hardy win is probably the best way to go about it.
3 - Womens Championship:
Mickie James
vs. Trish Stratus ©
Don't care.
4 - Cruiserweight Championship:
Rey Mysterio
vs. Kid Kash ©
This is a hard one. Could go either way. I think you'll go Rey to keep the fans happy.
6 -
Money in the Bank Ladder Match:
Gregory Helms
vs. Mr. Kennedy vs. Carlito vs. Paul London vs. Ric Flair vs. Finlay vs. Chavo Guerrero vs. Mark Henry
Not an overly awe inspiring MITB line up, but your love for Helms will prevail and he'll win. IF not Helms, then Kennedy.
5 - Singles Match:
Bobby Lashley
vs. John Bradshaw Layfield
Bonus Points
1. What will be the match order? above
2. How many titles will change hands? I'm going for 6
3. Which match will be the longest? Michaels/Triple H
4. Which match will be the shortest? Lashley/JBL please.
5. Who will be eliminated first in the Three Way Dance? OJ please.
6. Who will take the fall in the Triple Threat Match? Cena please.
7. Will there be any surprise appearances by people who have not been seen on screen for some time? If so, then by who? Hm. I'm gonna throw out Jericho or Christian.
Good luck mate. It looks good. I'll certainly be checking it out.
Lacing SCOTT STEINER's boots
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: London
Posts: 4,162
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
I, unfortunately, haven't been following this thread as much as I should have so I won't be offering reasons for my predictions I'll simply be predicting.
World Heavyweight Championship:
Randy Orton vs.
Batista ©
WWE Championship; Triple Threat Match:
John Cena vs.
Kurt Angle
vs. Edge ©
Interbrand Spectacular:
Rob Van Dam vs.
The Undertaker
No Holds Barred Match:
Triple H
vs. Shawn Michaels
United States Championship; Three Way Dance:
Chris Benoit vs. Orlando Jordan vs.
Booker T ©
World Tag Team Championships:
The Worlds Greatest Tag Team vs.
Kane & Big Show ©
WWE Tag Team Championships:
The Hardy Boyz
vs. MNM ©
Womens Championship:
Mickie James
vs. Trish Stratus ©
Cruiserweight Championship:
Rey Mysterio vs.
Kid Kash ©
Money in the Bank Ladder Match:
Gregory Helms
vs. Mr. Kennedy vs. Carlito vs. Paul London vs. Ric Flair vs. Finlay vs. Chavo Guerrero vs. Mark Henry
Singles Match:
Bobby Lashley
vs. John Bradshaw Layfield
Bonus Points
1. What will be the match order?
2. How many titles will change hands?
3. Which match will be the longest?
4. Which match will be the shortest?
Cruiserweight Match
5. Who will be eliminated first in the Three Way Dance?
6. Who will take the fall in the Triple Threat Match?
7. Will there be any surprise appearances by people who have not been seen on screen for some time? If so, then by who? This is going to be a complete guess, Vinnie Mac.
Good luck and I should be reviewing
The Apple Pie
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Hazard, KY
Posts: 76
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
The reason I can't give reasons for predictions is the same as Bradleys.
1. United States Championship Three Way Dance
Chris Benoit
vs. Orlando Jordan vs. Booker T. (c)
2. World's Tag Team Championship Match
The World's Greatest Tag Team vs.
Big Show and Kane
3. Money In The Bank Ladder Match
Gregory Helms vs.
Mr. Kennedy
vs. Carlito vs. Paul London vs. Ric Flair vs. Finlay vs. Chavo Guerrero vs. Mark Henry
4. Women's Championship Match
Mickie James vs.
Trish Stratus
5. Single's Match
Bobby Lashley
vs. John Bradshaw Layfield
6. Cruiserwieght Championship
Rey Mysterio
vs. Kid Kash (c)
7. WWE Tag Team Championship
The Hardy Boyz vs.
8. Interbrand Spectatular
Rob Van Dam vs.
The Undertaker
9. No Hold's Barred Match
Shawn Michaels
vs. Triple H
10. World Heavyweight Championship
Randy Orton
vs. Batista (c)
11. WWE Championship Match Triple Threat
John Cena vs.
Kurt Angle
vs. Edge (c)
Bonus Points
1. What will be the match order? Done
2. How many titles will change hands? 4
3. Which match will be the longest? WWE Championship Triple Threat Match
4. Which match will be the shortest? Cruiserweight Championship Match
5. Who will be eliminated first in the Three Way Dance? Orlando Jordan
6. Who will take the fall in the Triple Threat Match? Edge
7. Will there be any surprise appearances by people who have not been seen on screen for some time? If so, then by who? I have no idea who hasn't seen screen time but I'm going to guess Stephanie hasn't been on in a while, so Stephanie McMahon.
Check out my new BTB: WWE 2012 and On: Rebirthing!
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Behind Blue Eyes
Posts: 11,820
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
We're suddenly in a sold out All-State Arena, tens of thousands of fans cheering away wildly from the darkness as we look on to see Lilian Garcia standing in the middle of the ring, the spotlight on her. The beautiful Lilian serenades us with her rendition of America The Beautiful, before we fade away to black.
Surrounded by darkness, we hear nothing but the sound of footsteps.
It was twenty-two years ago that professional wrestling was still in its dark ages …
The footsteps continue, slowly getting louder.
Twenty-two years ago that professional wrestling remained an unpopular sport …
The footsteps continue.
Twenty-two years ago that professional wrestling was still shunned from the mainstream eye …
The footsteps grow even louder, and soon we hear the sound of a creaking door, allowing a slim ray of light to burst into the room.
And it was twenty-two years ago that one man had a dream …
The door continues to open, revealing the face of MR. MCMAHON, the man who was opening the door.
That dream became a vision …
Mr. McMahon smiles.
And that vision … became a reality.
We suddenly zoom out through the door to hear a buzzing, accompanying the image of a raucous crowd leaping up and down at WrestleMania I.
Mr. McMahon:
Welcome to WrestleMania!
"Mania … Mania … Mania"
We now see JOHN CENA walking down a dark hallway.
For the current superstars of the WWE, that dream is about to begin.
We fade off from Cena to a view of a long, winding road.
They've had to wait for a whole year, and for many, it has been a long year. Some have reigned supreme …
Shots of the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, BATISTA and the WOMEN'S CHAMPION, TRISH STRATUS raising their belts come into view as we start to travel down the road.
While for others, this past year has been the hardest of their careers.
Shots of TRIPLE H and JOHN 'BRADSHAW' LAYFIELD being on the losing end of title matches as we continue to travel.
There have been many challenges on this journey …
Shots of the CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION, KID KASH being surrounded by every other cruiserweight at the Royal Rumble.
Many trials …
Shots of REY MYSTERIO sobbing, following us learning of the passing of the late, great Eddie Guerrero.
And tribulations.
'The Nature Boy' RIC FLAIR is left broken and blooded in the ring at Survivor Series 2005.
But at the end of the journey, we've got to ask ourselves just one question … was it worth it?
As we zoom along, shots of SHAWN MICHAELS decimating TRIPLE H with the sledgehammer at Saturday Night's Main Event appear in the sky in the background.
Triple H:
Was turning your back on me worth it, Shawn?
More of the same.
Shawn Michaels:
Was getting in my way worth it, Hunter?
Shots of RANDY ORTON winning the Royal Rumble.
Randy Orton:
Was holding the World Heavyweight Title, just to lose to me at WrestleMania worth it, Batista?
The WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, BATISTA snapping and laying RANDY ORTON out with the Batista Bomb.
Was winning the Rumble worth it, Randy?
Shots of JOHN 'BRADSHAW' LAYFIELD attacking BOBBY LASHLEY.
John 'Bradshaw' Layfield:
Was pissin' me off worth it, Lashley?
BOBBY LASHLEY now nailing JOHN 'BRADSHAW' LAYFIELD with the spear.
Bobby Lashley:
Was disrespecting me worth it, JBL?
Shots of GREGORY HELMS attacking RIC FLAIR on Carlito's Cabana.
Gregory Helms:
Was gettin' in my way worth it, Ric?
The tables now turned, as RIC FLAIR is shown assaulting GREGORY HELMS with chops.
Ric Flair:
Was treatin' me like trash worth it, Helms?
The WOMEN'S CHAMPION, TRISH STRATUS is shown attacking MICKIE JAMES at Saturday Night's Main Event.
Trish Stratus:
Were the lies worth it, Mickie?
We fast forward to Monday Night RAW, with MICKIE JAMES chasing the WOMEN'S CHAMPION, TRISH STRATUS out of the ring.
Mickie James:
Was abandoning me worth it, Trish?
Shots of KURT ANGLE in a bloody mess backstage at the Royal Rumble.
Kurt Angle:
Was attacking me from behind worth it, Edge?
Shots of the JOHN CENA sitting in the ring after losing his title at New Year's Revolution.
John Cena:
Was stealing my title worth it, Edge?
Shots of the WWE CHAMPION, EDGE delivering a sickening con-chair-to to JOHN CENA and then spearing KURT ANGLE on the last two RAWs.
Was trying to take my title worth it, Angle and Cena?
Shots of ROB VAN DAM leaping off the turnbuckle and hitting a thrust kick to The Undertaker at No Way Out from nowhere.
The Undertaker:
Was getting my attention worth it, Van Dam?
The road continues zooming along, only to come to a screeching stop out of nowhere in front of ROB VAN DAM, who stands still with a smirk on his face.
Rob Van Dam:
Of course it was.
Flashing action shots of several superstars now, performing their signature moves.
For the superstars of RAW and SmackDown!, they know it was worth it because they know there's only one …
Bobby Lashley:
There's only one chance to prove myself.
John 'Bradshaw' Layfield:
There's only one chance to put punks in their place.
The Hardy Boyz:
There's only one chance to prove that we've still got it.
There's only one chance with the lights on bright.
The World's Greatest Tag Team:
There's only once chance to show that we're the world's greatest.
Kane & Big Show:
There's only one chance to show how dominant we are.
Trish Stratus:
There's only one chance to put a stop to the lies.
Mickie James:
There's only one chance to show what I've become.
Mr. Kennedy:
There's only one chance to claim the spotlight.
Paul London:
There's only one chance to make a name for myself.
Chris Benoit:
There's only one chance to prove all of the doubters wrong.
Orlando Jordan:
There's only one chance to step out of the shadows.
Booker T:
There's only one chance to put these suckas in their place.
Rey Mysterio:
There's only one chance to cement my legacy.
Kid Kash:
There's only one chance to show that I am the king of the cruiserweights.
Rob Van Dam:
There's only one chance to gain a new tag.
The Undertaker:
There's only one way to strike fear into the mortals.
Triple H & Shawn Michaels:
There's only one chance to end this.
Edge, Kurt Angle & John Cena:
There's only one chance to prove why I'm at the top.
Randy Orton & Batista:
There's only one chance to prove I'm the best in the world.
The actions shots come to a sudden halt … and we fade back into the room where MR. MCMAHON stands, a smile on his face.
Mr. McMahon:
There's only one … WrestleMania!
We suddenly zoom away from that, back on the road as we head towards the WrestleMania 22 logo …
And now, Red Bull and the Nation Guard presents a RAW and SmackDown! production … WRESTLEMANIA 22!
April 2nd, 2006 | Allstate Arena; Rosemont, Illinois
We hit the WrestleMania logo, then explode through it into the arena, where we are treated to a MASSIVE pyro display at the top of the very special WrestleMania 22 stage! Following the pyro blowing everywhere, we do a complete pan around the Allstate Arena, showing the fans jumping up and down, waving their signs around in excitement, before we settle down at ringside with our RAW announce team.
Joey Styles:
After a year of build, a year of excitement and a year of anticipation, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to what we've all been waiting for. Welcome to the global phenomenon that sweeps the world by storm each and every year. Welcome to WrestleMania 22! I'm Joey Styles, joined here by the rest of the RAW announce team of Jerry 'The King' Lawler and 'The Coach' Jonathan Coachman, and gentlemen, it doesn't get any bigger than this!
Jerry Lawler:
It sure doesn't, Joey. It's like they say, there's only one, and boy can you feel it. Listen to these people! They know! They know that it's WrestleMania!
Jonathan Coachman:
'King', Joe, you guys know me. You know how cool and calm I usually am, but this … this is somethin' different. This is WrestleMania! I'm so excited I've got goosebumps!
Joey Styles:
And with good reason, 'Coach'. Tonight there will be seven, yes that's right folks, SEVEN titles on the line, and they don't get any bigger than the WWE Championship. 'The Rated R Superstar' defends against the man who he beat for the title back in January, John Cena, and Kurt Angle.
Jerry Lawler:
Edge has been running from Cena and Angle for three months now, but tonight there will be no more running, and I feel like there's going to be a new world champion guys. It's just that type of night. It's WrestleMania!
Jonathan Coachman:
You're damn right it's WrestleMania, and that means it's time for the true superstars to come out to shine, and what bigger superstar is there than 'The Rated R Superstar' Edge? These past few weeks Edge has destroyed John Cena, he PINNED Kurt Angle this past Monday night on RAW, and he's gonna do the exact same thing to both of 'em here tonight.
Joey Styles:
If we want to talk about big, we can't leave this one out either. This isn't about titles ladies and gentlemen. It's about blood. It's about finishing a rivalry that has been going on for nearly a decade. Tonight, following Monday Night RAW's final confrontation, it's The Final Battle between Triple H and Shawn Michaels, the one to end the war here at WrestleMania, and it is No Holds Barred!
Jerry Lawler:
We all heard what they said this past week on RAW. Shawn Michaels and Triple H agreed that they would end their war tonight one way or the other. From the best of friends to the worst of enemies, tonight there's going to be more than just blood shed between those two.
Jonathan Coachman:
The conviction with which they spoke … it was almost scary. I certainly don't envy whichever referee has to try to stop them from killin' one another tonight.
Joey Styles:
There's a lot more to come from Monday Night RAW, including the most personal Women's Title match in the history of the women's division, but let's not forget that Friday Night SmackDown! is here, represented as always by Michael Cole and Tazz. Take it away guys!
We head across to the Friday Night SmackDown! announce desk to see our usual SmackDown! announce crew.
Michael Cole:
Thank you, Joey and good evening ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to WrestleMania 22! We are here in the sold out Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois, we're being viewed in over 150 countries and we have the biggest card in WrestleMania history! It just keeps getting bigger and bigger every year, doesn't it partner?
It sure does, Cole, and I know that we're just as excited to be in Chi-town here tonight as they are excited to have us. I'm just like them, I wanna see some wrestling. I wanna see WrestleMania!
Michael Cole:
And some quality wrestling we will see on the SmackDown! side of things, of course headlined by our main event. The World Heavyweight Champion Batista defends his title against the winner of the Royal Rumble, Randy Orton, competing his year long reign here tonight after winning the title last year at this very event from Triple H.
And if ya ask me, this is where the reign ends. Randy believes that winnin' tonight is his destiny, and like he told us this past week on SmackDown!, he said the same thing about the Rumble. The Orton legacy lives at WrestleMania, includin' when his dad was involved in the very first WrestleMania main event. Tonight Randy cements that legacy by capuring the World Heavyweight Title.
Michael Cole:
There may be no title on the line, but perhaps the most talked about match on the card is the Interbrand Spectacular. RVD laid down the challenge. He wanted to make a name for himself, and tonight he gets the chance. RVD and The Undertaker one on one here at WrestleMania, 'The Deadman' putting his thirteen and oh streak on the line.
RVD showed he wouldn't be caught nappin' this past week on SmackDown! when he laid 'The Deadman' out, and this whole thing has all been about RVD one upping 'Taker. I dunno if he can get the job done tonight, and I kinda hope he doesn't for SmackDown!'s sake, but I do know I'm amped up for that one for sure.
Michael Cole:
It'll be a big match for sure, but we're not the only ones amped up. Next to us we have our always amped up Spanish colleagues and tonight it's even bigger for them. Carlos Cabrera and Hugo Savinovich, take it away gentlemen!
We head across to see the Spanish team who talk at an extremely high pace, speaking pretty much gibberish aside from the occasional name until they fall silent …
The crowd ERUPTS as the first superstar of the night marches out onto the stage, the rookie monster, 'The Dominator' BOBBY LASHLEY, looking like a beast as he excites the crowd before setting off his pyro with a special extra WrestleMania bang.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is your WrestleMania opener, and it is scheduled for ONE FALL! Introducing first, from COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO, weighing 275 lbs, BOBBBBYYYYYY LAAAASSSHHHHLLLLEEEEYYYYYY!
The crowd pops as Chimel announces Lashley's name, with the focused youngster quickly making his way down the ramp, slapping hands with some fans as he does so.
Michael Cole:
And we're kicking WrestleMania off with a bang. What better way to get things started than with the fastest rising superstar perhaps not just on SmackDown!, but in all of the WWE, with the undefeated Lashley?
Lashley may be undefeated, but this is the biggest test in his career just yet. He's goin' in to his first WrestleMania against a guy who's been here before and done it before in JBL.
Michael Cole:
And don't forget the anger that we've seen from JBL in recent weeks. Having been shown up by Lashley over the past few weeks, JBL has finally been set off in a way we've not seen for a long time. Does this give a distinct advantage to JBL, or do you think Lashley can use it against him?
It all depends on how Lashley can handle the pressure of bein' here at WrestleMania. If he can then he may be able to take advantage of JBL's state. If not, then this may be a quick one.
Lashley makes his way down the remainder of the ramp then jumps up onto the apron, sending pyro exploding out of the ringposts to a big pop. Unfazed, the youngster climbs into the ring, then marches around, looking to settle himself.
The reaction suddenly does a complete 180 as the hoards of cheers turns into a chorus of boos at the sight of the white limousine making its way out onto the side of the stage. The logo emblazoned on it can only mean one thing, and sure enough, once the chauffeur steps out onto the stage and opens the back door, JOHN 'BRADSHAW' LAYFIELD emerges from the limo, following by the rest of THE CABINET along with THE BLUEBLOODS oddly enough.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, from NEW YORK CITY, weighing 295 lbs, he is the SELF-PROCLAIMED 'WWWRRRRESTLING GOD', JOHN – 'BRADSHAW' – LAAAYYYYFFIIIIIEEELLLLDDDD!
JBL Texas two-steps his way out onto the ramp, followed by his entourage until he pauses to stop and holds his arms out wide, triggering a litany of red, white and blue fireworks to explode behind him.
Michael Cole:
Boy, does JBL know how to turn it on for WrestleMania or what?
Well he certainly has the money to do it. But hey, I wonder what The Bluebloods think about the old red, white and blue pyro.
Michael Cole:
Since the Union Jack is the same colours I don't think they'll mind partner, but the question remains, can JBL turn it on in the ring here tonight as well? He looks confident like always, while Lashley in the ring, well, he looks a little nervous.
It's natural for Lashley to be nervous. It's WrestleMania after all. JBL, we know he'll be on the top of his game like he always is. It's just a matter of controlling that rage if you're JBL, but right now he's lookin' calm like you said.
The confident JBL walks down the rest of the ramp, his entourage following closely behind him as he climbs up into the ring and throws up the bullhorns taunt. With the crowd buzzing, JBL then removes his ring jacket, bringing about the sound of the bell for the very first time for the night.
Singles Match:
Bobby Lashley
John 'Bradshaw' Layfield w/The Cabinet & The Bluebloods
The sold out crowd continues to go absolutely wild, buzzing with anticipation for the show to truly kick off with some action. In the ring stands the two men who will bring the action. On one side stands John 'Bradshaw' Layfield, talking over some last minute strategy with his troops, while on the other side of the ring, the athletic specimen, Bobby Lashley bounces up and down on the balls of his feet, not looking at all overawed by the occasion.
Sensing the time is right, the two hulking figures now step forward and stand toe to toe, looking into one another's eyes, the hared and disrespect flashing between them like little bolts of electricity. Neither man moves at first, instead content to just stare the other man down as the crowd buzzes, but when someone does make a move, it's JBL … AS HE SLAPS THE TASTE OUT OF LASHLEY'S MOUTH!
The crowd gasps in shock as Bobby Lashley sways to the side, the sound of the slap still ringing through the arena as he rubs his face … BUT JBL GIVES HIM NO TIME TO RECOVER AS HE RUSHES HIM BACK TO THE CORNER AND BEGINS TO BLAST HIM WITH RIGHT HAND BLOWS! JBL smashes his fist into the side of the head of Lashley time and time again, damn near caving his head in, until at the count of four, under orders from Charles Robinson, Layfield finally withdraws from the corner.
Not wanting to give Lashley any time to recover, JBL moves back in, but Lashley was ready, and he shows the willingness to give JBL a taste of his own medicine, refusing to be bullied as he forces JBL back with some HEAVY blows to the skull! Lashley sends JBL packing all of the way back into the ropes, at which point he then sends the veteran off with an Irish whip … before CRASHING through him with a reverse elbow on the rebound! Eager to capitalise on the move, Lashley makes the first cover of the event:
JBL gets his shoulder up, not even allowing for a two count!
Lashley though, despite the kick out, is right back on top of JBL, lifting him back up to his feet and pushing him back to the corner, where he DRIVES his foot into the abdomen of JBL several times, kicking the air out of him. Happy with the damage he's done, Lashley pulls Layfield in close and looks to be contemplating sending him off … but JBL explodes out of nowhere and turns the tables, throwing the rookie back into the corner so he can CAVE HIS JAW IN with some SAVAGE right hands!
Again, it takes Charles Robinson interjecting himself at a count of four to stop Layfield, who is drawing some great heat from the disapproving fans. JBL clearly couldn't give a rat's ass though, and he shows that by taking advantage of a doubled over Lashley, charging across to BOOT HIM SQUARE IN THE HEAD … SENDING HIM TUMBLING FROM THE RING!
JBL is quick to try to follow up on this too, attempting to climb from the ring, but thinking he can get some control over the match, Charles Robinson intercepts and tells Layfield to stay in the ring. This creates a disagreement between the pair, and on the outside, The Cabinet & The Bluebloods look set to take advantage as Brent Albright lifts Bobby Lashley back up and pins his arms behind his back, allowing The Bluebloods to take some free shots to the midsection and head of Lashley! With JBL now looking to once again exit the ring, Albright finishes the cheap assault on Lashley by RAMMING him back into the crowd barrier, then leaving and quickly pleading innocence to referee Charles Robinson.
With Lashley shaken, JBL can pretty much do what he wants, and he takes advantage of it by slowly stepping towards Lashley, the toothy grin out for all to see, before his demeanour suddenly changes, and 'The Wrestling God' again GOES TO TOWN ON THE FACE OF LASHLEY, striking him with some STIFF right hand blows!
From inside the ring, Robinson again begs for JBL to wrestle fairly, but JBL has no such intentions, now pulling Lashley away from the crowd barrier … THEN SENDING HIM OFF WITH AN IRISH WHIP … TO CRASH INTO THE STEEL STEPS WITH A MASSIVE THUD!
Many members of the audience shudder, feeling the very same pain that Lashley must be feeling after that significant blow. The callous Layfield, however, feels no such thing, instead walking confidently across to Lashley, then lifting him up and rolling him into the ring, so he can follow up and make a cover:
NO! Bobby Lashley springs his shoulder off the mat!
Wanting to punish his foe, JBL rolls from the cover and in, an almost toying fashion, kicks at the shoulders of Lashley, before DROPPING his elbow down into the ample chest of Lashley! One shoulder isn't enough though, and Layfield knows it, quickly getting up and dropping a second elbow, before getting up once again and dashing off to the ropes, then DRIVING his elbow down into the pectorals of Lashley for a THIRD time!
Thinking that may be enough, JBL makes the cover:
NO! Lashley kicks out of the pinfall attempt!
Desperate to gain some space, Lashley looks to roll away from Layfield immediately after the kick out, but JBL is weary of it, and he follows Lashley into the corner, then sets him up for a couple of kicks to the midsection. With Lashley now stunned, JBL is able to measure his opponent and set him up perfectly so that he can DRIVE his elbow into the jaw of his foe, not once, but SEVERAL times, showing some real aggression.
Again, JBL breaks at the count of four, leaving a wobbly Lashley to almost fall into him, letting JBL know he's a sitting duck before JBL goes about whipping him off into the other corner with as much force as he can muster … causing Lashley to CRASH to the mat with a WHIPLASH like effect!
The youngster is perhaps now realising that he's in over his head against the former WWE Champion as he pulls himself from the mat, looking for assistance from the corner while JBL waits on the other side of the ring … then charges in and SQUASHES Bobby in the corner with a corner clothesline! Layfield, following that move, is feeling the complete opposite to Lashley, and it shows as he smiles cockily, allowing Lashley to just hang in the corner … BUT JBL STOPS SMILING WHEN LASHLEY SUDDENLY GRABS HIM BY THE THROAT!
JBL panics, fearing Lashley may have caught him out … but he's able to break Lashley's grip with a firm kick to the midsection, before backing him up to the corner again and absolutely LAMBASTING him with right hand shots, sending Lashley down into a very vulnerable state. Not wanting to allow any time for a Lashley recovery, JBL grabs the youngster by the arm … THEN PULLS HIM IN AND RATTLES HIS BRAINS WITH A CRACKING SHORT ARM CLOTHESLINE!
With Lashley looking almost out of it, JBL drops down and hooks the leg:
The crowd pops for the kick out, leaving JBL to look up at Robinson and confirm it was just a two count, then again climb back up to his feet. With Lashley struggling to get back up, an overconfident JBL taunts him, raising his arm up and smirking away while standing over his foe, having not learnt his lesson from just a moment ago. With Lashley now back to his feet thanks to a little assistance from the ropes, JBL turns his enemy around, then pulls him in … SHORT ARM CLOTHESLINE AGAIN … BUT LASHLEY DUCKS IT … AND BEGINS TO FIRE OFF SOME HUGE RIGHT HANDS TO THE JAW OF JBL!
Lashley absolutely stuns JBL, sending the self-made millionaire reeling back into the ropes with some heavy hits, before Irish whipping him … and CRASHING his forearm through a charging JBL on the return! JBL springs right back up, but Lashley is quick to strike, nailing a second forearm thrust, before RUNNING THROUGH JBL with a clothesline!
The crowd pops for their man as he roars with intensity, watching JBL, then BURSTING out of nowhere and BULLRUSHING him back to the corner, where he DRIVES his shoulder into the midsection OVER AND OVER again, sending the air right out of the lungs of JBL. With Layfield absolutely stunned, Lashley looks to follow up, sending 'The Wall Street Warrior' over to the opposite corner, before charging in and SQUASHING him in the corner with a big corner clothesline!
Lashley is getting into the zone now, and he shows that by backing out of the corner and readying himself as JBL staggers towards him … BEFORE SPRINGING INTO ACTION … AND POPPING THE HIPS WITH A BIG BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX!
A discombobulated JBL groans in pain, having landed heavily on his back, before rolling over and starting to struggle back to his feet … RIGHT INTO THE CLUTCHES OF LASHLEY … WHO THIS TIME SENDS JBL FLYING WITH AN INCREDIBLE EXPLODER SUPLEX! The crowd cheers for the ability of Lashley following the move that has rendered JBL immobile on the mat, prompting Lashley to go for the cover with a hook of the leg:
Lashley looks slightly disappointed by the kick out, but he doesn't spend too long dwelling on it, instead getting back up to his feet, ready for action and motioning for JBL to do the same. 'The Wrestling God' is a little slower back up, obviously feeling the effects of Lashley's offense, but he eventually gets there, giving his back to Lashley, before turning into a kick to the midsection, doubling JBL over and allowing Lashley to grab him, then hoist him up for a suplex, which he holds … and holds … and holds … AND HOLDS! The crowd goes crazy for the incredible strength of Lashley, who continues to hold the 300 lb JBL up in the air, sending the blood rushing to his head, using just ONE HAND!
Lashley continues to hold JBL up … but JBL's accomplices have had enough, as BRENT ALBRIGHT CLIMBS ONTO THE APRON! 'The Hired Gun' is able to catch Lashley's attention, causing him to lose focus on what he's doing … and JBL slips free, recovering behind Lashley, as the rookie talks some trash with Albright, before turning … CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL … NO … LASHLEY DUCKED … AND JBL JUST STOPS BEFORE STRIKING ALBRIGHT!
A narrow miss for Layfield, who now turns … RIGHT INTO A SPEAR FROM LASHLEY … BUT HE SIDESTEPS IT … AND LASHLEY SPEARS ALBRIGHT, SENDING HIM DOWN CRASHING ONTO THE BLUEBLOODS, WIPING THEM ALL OUT! The crowd cheers as all of JBL's male accomplices go down, but Lashley pays no attention to it, turning into a kick to the midsection … and JBL gets Lashley up … THEN THROWS HIM OVERHEAD WITH A HUGE FALLAWAY SLAM!
The strength of JBL cannot be underestimated as just showed right there, with the former WWE Champion looking to take advantage with the cover:
JBL rolls off the cover and stares at the referee, extremely peeved, demanding that Robinson tell him it was a three count, which, of course, he can't do. This prompts JBL to instead take his aggression out on Lashley, who he stalks on his way up, then corners so he can absolutely SMASH him with some more HUGE right hands, really bringing the fight to Lashley. Having inflicted enough damage for now, JBL gets in Lashley's face and shouts "You WILL respect me, you good for nothin' snot nosed PUNK!" before, for a second time in the match, SLAPPING LASHLEY RIGHT ACROSS THE CHEEK!
Still seething, JBL grabs Lashley and hurls him across to the opposite corner with an Irish whip, then charges in … right into a raised boot to the jaw from Lashley! Layfield is stunned, staggering around everywhere, eventually finding himself once again in the clutches of Lashley as the Colorado native scoops Layfield up … THEN CHARGES FROM THE CORNER AND NAILS A RUNNING POWERSLAM! The crowd gives a big pop as Lashley hooks the leg:
Lashley can't believe it, thinking that he surely had the match finished, but the veteran JBL refuses to be beaten by the rookie. Knowing he's still got a few tricks up his sleeve, Lashley doesn't panic and instead looks to follow up as he heads to the corner … then crouches down – SPEAR TIME!
The crowd buzzes as the former Bradshaw slowly lifts himself up from the mat, using the turnbuckle in the corner for assistance, then turns … AND LASHLEY COMES CHARGING FROM THE BLOCKS … SPEAR … BLOCKED … WITH A BIG BOOT! LASHLEY RUNS RIGHT INTO A HUGE BIG BOOT FROM LAYFIELD!
Lashley goes down in a heap, and Layfield follows close after, making the cover:
JBL is irate, not believing that he didn't win the match, pinning the blame squarely on referee Charles Robinson for a slow count, abusing him until he notices Lashley getting up. Realising that he has to put Lashley down here and now, Layfield goes to whip Bobby into the corner, but the rookie reverses and sends JBL in, then charges in after him … but JBL dodges and Lashley goes chest first into the turnbuckle … BEFORE STAGGERING BACK INTO A CHARGING LAYFIELD, WHO HAS QUICKLY BOUNCED OFF THE ROPES … CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL … NO! LASHLEY DUCKS AND RUNS OFF TO THE ROPES … THEN COMES BACK AND SPEARS A TURNING JBL IN HALF!
The crowd erupts as Lashley hooks the leg:
Winner: Bobby Lashley via pinfall @ 12:08
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, BOBBBBYYYYY LAAASSSHHHLLEEEYYYY!
The crowd once again explodes with a cheer at the announcement from Chimel as Lashley gets to his feet and immediately has his hand raised by the referee, the win having already set in as shown by the smile across the youngster's face. With a spring in his step, 'The Dominator' heads to the corner and climbs up to the second rope to acknowledge the fans with his signature pose.
Michael Cole:
What a way to start WrestleMania! What a win for Bobby Lashley! JBL was on his game as we expected, he brought Lashley everything he had, but Bobby Lashley was able to take it all then defeat the former WWE Champion to extend his undefeated run.
Big ups to Lashley, that was a hard fought win for the youngster, ain't no doubt about that. Like you said, he took everything JBL had, and he brought even more himself. The biggest win to date for Lashley for sure.
Michael Cole:
The expression on his face tells it all, but what about JBL? Where does he go from here? He just got showed up by a man who he said didn't even deserve to lace his boots. This has to be embarrassing for him.
Just look at him, Cole. He don't look happy at all.
We now get a view of the dejected Layfield being held up by his entourage on the outside as he glares back into the ring, specifically Lashley as he continues to salute his fans. The camera goes back to focus on Lashley though, as this, after all, is his moment. Before long we cut away though …
… To be in the office of our three authority figures, where MR. MCMAHON, THEODORE LONG and ERIC BISCHOFF are seated on a couch, looking on at an extremely large plasma TV. Long looks awfully happy, a broad smile on his face as he sits forward.
Theodore Long:
Now dat is how you start WrestleMania off SmackDown! style, baby.
Mr. McMahon:
An impressive start no doubt, Teddy. Congratulations to both you and young Lashley for the win. He sure looks like he's got a future here in the WWE.
His interest suddenly piqued, Bischoff looks at the other two.
Eric Bischoff:
But Mr. McMahon, if you want impressive, then you have to look no further than Monday Night RAW's half of the WrestleMania card. I mean, you've got 'HBK'/Triple H, Mickie/Trish and the Triple Threat Match for the WWE Title.
Mr. McMahon:
Y'know what? You're right too, Eric. Monday Night RAW's half of the card certainly is looking impressive. Triple H/Michaels? That's gonna be a war for the ages! Mickie/Trish? It doesn't come much more personal than that. And the WWE Title match? I don't think you could have possibly put on a bigger title match, Eric.
Eric Bischoff:
Thank you, Mr. McMahon, I-
Theodore Long:
He could have … if he had Batista and Randy Orton goin' at it. Think about … the two guys who three years ago were declared the future of the business by Ric Flair an' Triple H, goin' at it for the World Heavyweight Title to decide who truly is the bigger star.
Mr. McMahon:
That does sound good, Teddy.
Eric Bischoff:
Good? The only thing good about that was when Orton laid Teddy out with an RKO. By the way, Teddy, I hear they're going to have higher expectations on you than ever over there on SmackDown! this week, what having seen a
authority figure at work this past Friday night.
Bischoff smirks away, proud of himself.
Theodore Long:
I welcome the challenge, Eric. I mean it's not every day we have a big authority figure show up on SmackDown!, but the way you worked this past Friday night, Mr. McMahon, that little stipulation you added to RVD/'Taker tonight? I gotta say, bravo. Plus, can somebody say probation?
Bischoff's expression changes, having been owned by Long.
Theodore Long:
By the way, Eric; wouldn't you say the real challenge to see which brand is superior should come in the Interbrand Spectacular between RVD and The Undertaker? Seems like the fair way to go about things to me.
Bischoff now appears angered by Long, clenching his teeth as he talks.
Eric Bischoff:
That's fine by me … RVD doesn't need help anyway. Tonight … he's gonna beat 'The Deadman'.
Long just continues to smile, knowing he's got his opposing GM ruffled.
Mr. McMahon:
Ah, a bit of competition. Now that's what I like to see! But how about we leave some of the competition to the superstars, gentlemen? Just sit back and enjoy the show.
The two GMs look a bit reluctant, but they know that it's always advisable to listen to Mr. McMahon so they do as they're told, sitting back on the couch on either side of him.
We don't remain on that image for long at all though, as we now cut away to see Todd Grisham standing by, dressed in a rather dashing suit for the big event as he stands in the interview area.
Todd Grisham:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guests at this time, Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin, they are The World's Greatest Tag Team!
A good pop as THE WORLD'S GREATEST TAG TEAM step into view, decked out in their old tag team gear, including matching jackets.
Todd Grisham:
Gentlemen, we are just moments away from the two of you challenging Kane and Big Show for the World Tag Team Titles. Do you think that this will be too big of a task, with the two of you seemingly on the same page for the first time in two years?
Charlie Haas:
Todd, we know that tonight's gonna be no easy task. Kane and the Big Show … they're the two biggest superstars from the RAW locker-room. They've been the World Tag Team Champions for half a year now. They've dominated the tag team division, tearing every team that's come before them apart. The thing is … they haven't faced
Small pop from the crowd.
Charlie Haas:
Kane and Big Show
us to be their opponents tonight because they were after a challenge, and, despite us not being on the same page, they
we'd bring 'em one. So I guess the question you've gotta ask is if Kane and Big Show thought that they were gonna get a challenge of us when we weren't gettin' along, what are they gonna get when we
gettin' along?
A good pop for an emphatic Haas this time.
Charlie Haas:
Tonight, we're goin' into one of the biggest matches of our lives, and yeah, we know it's gonna be tough, not just 'cause we're gonna have to get used to teamin' with each other as soon as possible, but also 'cause we're wrestlin' Kane and the Big Show. Luckily, for us though, losin' … it's not an option.
Another decent pop from the crowd for Haas.
Charlie Haas:
For not just our whole careers, but for our whole lives, Shelton and I have been used to being winners. It's what brought us together and made us a team. It's what made Kurt Angle bring us to the WWE. Look at him – he's in the WWE Title match tonight … he's a winner … and he saw that we were too.
A decent pop.
Charlie Haas:
The last time we did this whole team thing, we won the tag team titles not once, not twice, but
three times
as a rookie team here in the WWE. So with more experience, with more knowledge and with more smarts, tonight, we're gonna show exactly why … exactly why …
Shelton Benjamin:
Exactly why we're the 'World's Greatest'.
A good cheer as both members of The World's Greatest Tag Team smile.
Charlie Haas:
Looks like we're on the same page already. I guess that means it's time for us to go get some gold.
Haas and Benjamin now leave the shot, heading on away from the interview set to leave Grisham to look on.
Back to ringside to hear the sound of the bell ringing and see Lilian Garcia standing by in the ring.
Lilian Garcia:
The following contest is a TAG TEAM MATCH scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS!
The crowd erupts with a great pop for the old tune, before seeing, for the first time in over two years, THE WORLD'S GREATEST TAG TEAM bounce out onto the stage in matching jackets and tights. Despite their focus, TWGTT obviously appreciate the reception too, as shown by the slight smiles on their face.
Lilian Garcia:
Introducing first, the CHAAALLLLLENGERS, weighing a combined weight of 492 lbs, the team of CHAAAARLIE HAAS AND SHEELLLLTON BENJAMINNNNN – THE WORLD'S GREATEST TAG TEEEAAAAMMMMMM!
Another strong pop goes up for that announcement as The World's Greatest Tag Team make their way down the giant WrestleMania ramp, slapping hands with the fans as they do so.
Joey Styles:
The last time we saw these two men together on the same page was at this very same event two years ago when they fell short in a Fatal Four Way Tag Team Match for the WWE Tag Team Titles. Ironically, it was a Fatal Four Way Tag Team Match that The World's Greatest Tag Team won to qualify for this match. Does this mean that we could perhaps see a happy reunion for these two men here tonight?
Jerry Lawler:
There's absolutely no doubt in my mind that if anyone is going to be able to beat Kane and the Big Show, it's going to be these two men. We've seen what they've been able to do in the past as a team, and like Charlie Haas said, with experience they should only be getting better. This has to be the biggest test for Kane and the Big Show to date.
Jonathan Coachman:
But you gotta remember that these two guys haven't been on the same page for two years. TWO YEARS! You think that just because they spout off some cheesy line backstage, they can suddenly win the tag team titles? That's not how it works, especially when you're about to face the most dominant tag team champions we've ever seen on Monday Night RAW.
The World's Greatest Tag Team jump up onto the apron, full of energy as they climb up into the ring and recognise the support they're getting from the fans, pulling the hoods down from over their heads to look right out at the crowd. The two then jump back down to the mat and start to bounce on the spot, until we suddenly hear …
The attention of everyone suddenly turns to the stage so that we can see the twin towers of the WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS, KANE & BIG SHOW lumber out onto the stage, the titles slung over their gigantic shoulders.
Lilian Garcia:
Their opponents, weighing a combined weight of 819 lbs, they are the WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONNNSSSS – KANE AND THE BIG SHOOOWWWW!
Despite the crowd cheering them, unlike the challengers, Kane & Big Show do not slap hands with the fans, instead deciding to walk down the ramp rather briskly and stare down their opponents in the ring.
Joey Styles:
Well 'Coach', you're certainly right when you say that Kane and Big Show have been the most dominant World Tag Team Champions we've ever seen on Monday Night RAW. For almost half a year now, the World Tag Team Champions have taken on all comers, including the best and brightest from both RAW and SmackDown!.
Jerry Lawler:
And it's because of that that tonight, Kane and the Big Show have come looking for a challenge. They said that they've enjoyed a dominant reign as the World Tag Team Champions, but at WrestleMania they wanted a big match of their own to prove themselves as dominant tag team champions.
Jonathan Coachman:
And like I said, while it may be a bit of a challenge, I just don't think that The World's Greatest Tag Team are gonna provide that challenge. I know that in the past they've been good – heck, they've been great, but here and now, Kane and Big Show are the dominant team here in the WWE.
The World Tag Team Champions climb up into the ring over the top rope, staring their challengers down as they make their way into the middle of the ring so that Kane can set off his pyro. The champions now make their way across into their corner, while the challengers remain in theirs.
World Tag Team Championships; Tag Team Match:
The World's Greatest Tag Team
Kane & Big Show ©
The two teams go about sorting themselves out to kick the match, with Charlie Haas opting to kick off the action for the newly reformed World's Greatest Tag Team. Over on the other side of the ring, Big Show looked to be making his exit, though Haas' presence in the ring has caught his eye, prompting him to tell Kane "I've got this".
Understanding his partner's want for revenge having been defeated by Haas two weeks ago, Kane nods and leaves the ring, leaving us to see Charlie Haas standing on one side of the ring, bouncing up and down, while Big Show simply stands on the other side of the ring, perhaps preparing himself mentally with a very serious expression on his face. With a sure sign that they're on the same page, Haas turns to Benjamin, and the two give another a high ten, before Haas now gets a move on and circles around the ring. Big Show now readies himself for action too, not circling around the ring so much, but rather raising his guard and watching as Haas moves. Weary of not taking Haas and his ability to go for a takedown lightly, Show looks to be right on edge here as Haas circles around him, before suddenly swooping forward … AND GOING BEHIND SHOW WITH A WAIST LOCK! HAAS IS ALREADY THINKING GERMAN SUPLEX … BUT SHOWS QUELLS THAT THOUGHT WITH A SIMPLE BUTT THRUST BACK!
Haas staggers back, but he manages to keep his feet, even affording a smile when Big Show turns to face him. Big Show, however, isn't smiling; as a matter of fact, he looks to take offense at Haas smiling, charging in and looking for a big right hand, but Haas manages to duck with ease, before flat out SLAPPING the giant across the chest with a CRACKING knife edge chop! The crowd woos along in approval, but one man who doesn't approve is Big Show, who is actually staggered by the move. Haas immediately looks to follow up, SMASHING his hand off the chest a few more times until he gets Show back in the corner.
The giant looks to be reeling in the early going, but when Haas advances he looks to turn the tables, grabbing Charlie by the throat and manhandling him into the corner, reversing the positions before looking for a HUGE open handed chop of his own, only for Haas to duck under it, leaving Big Show to hit nothing but painful, painful turnbuckle. Haas is quick to follow up on Big Show, forcing his humongous frame back into the corner, before going ABSOLUTELY WILD, THROWING right hands at Big Show's head time and time again! Referee Jack Doan can do nothing but look on as Haas lambasts Show with shots, before finally backing out of the corner and ROARING with intensity! The crowd responds in turn with a pop as Haas now turns back to the corner, looking a stunned Big Show in the eye and telling him to "COME ON!"
Big Show almost looks set to as well, despite his somewhat vulnerable state, but he's called out of it by Kane from the corner, who demands that Big Show tag him in. Looking somewhat reluctant, Show sheepishly staggers along the ropes and complies with his partner's request, having been punked out by Charlie Haas two times in as many matches. The focus is off Big Show for now though, as 'The Big Red Machine' Kane steps foot in the ring and sets his sights on Charlie Haas, readjusting his glove menacingly. Haas looks set to go, until he too gets a call from his corner, as Shelton Benjamin now wants in on the action. Haas nods with acceptance, then walks over across to the corner and makes the tag to Benjamin, who quickly swings into the ring.
The roles are now reversed, with Kane looking to be the confident one, while Benjamin, following up from his loss to Kane on RAW, looks to be hungry to prove himself. Not wasting any time, Benjamin seems to catch Kane somewhat off guard as he charges forward and locks up with the monster, allowing him to hold his own at first. As you would expect though, Kane is able to ultimately prevail when he realises what's happening, forcing Benjamin back to the corner with ease.
Somewhat surprisingly, Kane provides a clean break, choosing to back away to the centre of the ring and wait for Benjamin, who again bursts to life and instigates a lock-up, but is again forced back to the corner with ease. Again, Kane is nice enough to provide a clean break, but Benjamin is again all over him, charging right out of the corner … into a HUGE right hand! Kane was ready and expecting it this time as he sends Shelton to the mat, then instantly follows up, grabbing Benjamin by the scruff and THROWING him into the corner so he can walk across and corner him, HAMMERING him with a few measured right hands.
With Shelton now staggered, Kane looks to follow up quickly again, Irish whipping Shelton off to the opposite corner, then charging in himself … right into the turnbuckle, as Benjamin dodges at the last moment. Kane staggers back into the middle of the ring, and the technically tight Benjamin quickly takes an arm and twists it overhead, before pulling Kane over to the corner with it to tag Charlie Haas back into the match. Benjamin gives Haas a quick look as if to say "You ready?", before the duo then take an arm each and twist it overhead, causing Kane some pain before a double Irish whip, with Kane coming back towards Shelton … but Benjamin drops down at the last moment, and Kane goes head on into a beautiful dropkick from Charlie Haas!
Shelton quickly scurries from the ring, allowing Haas to make the cover:
NO! Kane gets his shoulder up off the mat!
Haas pays no heed to the kick out of Kane, getting right back to business as he again grabs Kane by the arm, then guides him across to the corner to tag in Shelton Benjamin. The World's Greatest Tag Team are showing some proficient tag team wrestling early as Shelton heads up top while Charlie holds Kane in place … before coming down and DROPPING a double axe handle onto the top of the head of Kane! 'The Big Red Machine' sags down to the mat, and Shelton quickly makes the cover:
NO! Kane kicks out!
Shelton nods acceptingly following the kick out, then gets back to his feet as Kane gets to a seated position, winding up, before CRACKING kick off the spine of Kane! 'The Big Red Machine' rolls towards the corner, looking for refuge, only for Benjamin to follow him in and hit some right hands, showing his enthusiasm once more with his unrelenting attack. Jack Doan is forced to intervene at a count of four and force Shelton back, but he just comes right back in for more … which results in him receiving a HUGE uppercut from Kane, sending him right down to the mat!
Having finally gotten the advantage, Kane looks quick to follow up on it, forcing Benjamin back into the corner of the ring, before absolutely DRILLING the point of his elbow into Shelton's temple OVER AND OVER, knocking Shelton stupid. With Shelton reeling, Kane takes the chance to tag Big Show back into the match, getting him involved again. Show climbs up over the top rope into the ring, grabbing a staggering Shelton by the head, then sending him back to the corner with a CRACKING headbutt that staggers the smaller man. Show then follows his foe into the corner and motions for the crowd to be quiet, opening up the chest of Shelton as he does so … before BANGING his skillet like hand down into the chest of Shelton! As you would expect, Benjamin yelps in pain, but Big Show holds him down in position once again … then CAVES his chest in with a second chop!
The crowd are absolutely eating it up as Big Show asks them if he should do it one more time, prompting the big man to once again stop Shelton from guarding himself … then DRIVE his hand down THROUGH the chest of Shelton! The pain is clearly too much for one half of The World's Greatest Tag Team as he falls to his hands and knees, opening him up for Show to just WALK RIGHT ON TOP OF HIM, FLATTENING HIM DOWN INTO THE MAT! The crowd cheers the cheeky smile from Show before the big man turns around and makes the cover:
NO! Shelton lifts his shoulder off the mat!
Despite the early enough kick out, Shelton is reeling, clearly having used a fair bit of energy to lift his shoulder up from under the gargantuan figure of Big Show, and this allows the big man to simply walk across and tag Kane back into the match, all while Shelton remains down on the mat. The defending champion is able to comfortably make his way in the ring, then wait as Shelton turns, before scooping him up and SLAMMING him down into the mat. With a sick smile on his face, Kane then quickly takes off to the ropes and comes back to DRIVE his elbow right into the heart of Benjamin. 'The Big Red Machine' hooks the leg:
Benjamin kicks out!
The crowd gives a slight pop for the Shelton kick out, but Shelton has absolutely no chance to utilise the energy from the crowd as Kane grabs him by the head, then drags him across to the corner to tag in Big Show. Kane remains in the ring with Show, and the monstrous team looks for a double team, both grabbing Shelton around the head, the sending him overhead, HIGH into the air, before DROPPING him with a massive double suplex! Kane is quick to leave the ring, allowing Big Show to make a cover:
Shelton kicks out again!
Big Show reacts by actually showing a slight bit of frustration this time, giving the referee a quick glance on his way back to his feet. Now looking to keep the offense rolling, Show grabs Shelton by the head, then RAMS his own forward, CRACKING a headbutt off the forehead of Benjamin that sends him all of the way back to the corner. Not at all happy, Big Show follows Shelton in, then uses his size to his advantage, lifting his boot and PUSHING IT THROUGH the throat of Benjamin, choking him! Jack Doan is all over this one, making sure Big Show breaks at the count of four. Show, however, shows some signs of frustration by giving Doan a little bit of cheek, before turning back to Benjamin and receiving a shock kick to the midsection! Benjamin surprises Show, and he looks to take advantage of that, hitting another kick, before going for a third, only for Show to catch it, then CRACK another headbutt off the skull of Shelton.
With his foe now dazed, Big Show grabs him by the arm and sends him off to the opposite corner with an Irish whip … BUT SHELTON SURPRISES EVERYONE BY SPRINGING UP TO THE TOP ROPE, THEN SPRINGING BACK … ONLY TO BE CAUGHT BY THE BIG SHOW! The crowd looks on in awe as Big Show manoeuvres Shelton around to get an inverted front face lock locked in … BAM! FINAL CUT! Big Show nails it!
The big man again covers Shelton:
Shelton kicks out once more!
The crowd reacts with joy, which is in stark contrast to Big Show, who can't believe Shelton Benjamin kicked out of his old move. Having taken a moment to stare down Doan again, the big man climbs back to his feet and this time ignores the calls for a tag from Kane, instead deciding to throw his giant hand up into the air and roar – IT'S CHOKESLAM TIME!
The crowd responds with a somewhat stifled cheer as Show now stalks Shelton, who slowly climbs back to his feet, then turns … AND BIG SHOW HAS HIM! THE BIG MAN GRABS BENJAMIN BY THE THROAT, THEN LIFTS HIM INTO THE AIR … BUT SHELTON LANDS BEHIND HIM! Benjamin quickly turns Show around and kicks him in the gut, stunning him, before going for a suplex, but Big Show, of course, won't budge. Shelton's enthusiasm looks to have gotten the best of Benjamin as Show counters, getting Shelton up for a suplex of his own … BUT SHELTON MANAGES TO LAND ON HIS FEET BEHIND BIG SHOW, THEN TAKE HIM DOWN WITH AN INCREDIBLE NECKBREAKER!
The crowd cheers the counter from Shelton which leaves both men down in the centre of the ring, both looking to their corners to make the tag. With the lust for gold driving them, both men begin to crawl to their corners, Big Show looking to be getting there faster due to his larger frame not having to travel as far, allowing him to tag in Kane … but Shelton Benjamin tags Charlie Haas in as well!
The two fresh men come charging into the ring, and it is Kane who takes the aggressive first swing, going for a big right hand, but Haas is able to duck it, then take a turning Kane down with a quick arm drag. Kane climbs back to his feet and clumsily comes at Haas, but Haas again is able to score with an arm drag, before hitting a third! Kane is absolutely steaming as he gets up this time, but he has no time to move as Haas strikes him RIGHT ON THE BUTTON with a picturesque dropkick! Looking to capitalise, Haas makes the cover:
Kane kicks out!
Haas gets back to his feet, not looking too concerned with Kane's kick out, as he goes right back to work, kicking a rising Kane in the midsection, then pushing him off to the ropes for an Irish whip, only for the stronger man to reverse. Haas hits the ropes with a lot of momentum, then comes back, staring right into Kane's boot, but he manages to duck it, then go behind Kane, quickly turn him around, snapmare him over … BAM! Stiff kick to the back … followed by an EQUALLY STIFF kick to the chest! The crowd erupts with a cheer as Haas makes the cover again:
Kane gets his shoulder up!
The crowd half cheers half groans, but again Haas doesn't look too concerned, instead more worried about going back to work as he lifts Kane up and SLAPS him across the chest with all of his might, sending Kane staggering back. The amateur wrestling master hits another chop, forcing Kane back to the corner, before going for an Irish whip, only for Kane to reverse, sending Haas into the opposite corner HARD! Haas starts to stagger out of the corner, holding his back, but Kane charges in and SQUASHES him back into the corner with a corner clothesline! Haas again comes forth from the corner, holding his back, moving right into the clutches of the monster, who lifts Haas up, then DRIVES him down into the mat with a massive sidewalk slam! The World Tag Team Champion hooks a leg:
Haas just kicks out!
Kane grimaces with the kick out, showing signs of disappointment, but the big man doesn't dwell on it too long, instead making sure Haas is still down, before heading for the corner, then beginning to climb up top. Step by step, Kane gets to the top rope … WHEN OUT OF NOWHERE CHARGES SHELTON BENJAMIN … WHO LEAPS UP TO THE TOP ROPE … THEN THROWS KANE DOWN INTO THE MIDDLE OF THE RING WITH A MASSIVLE THROW! The crowd erupts as Shelton and Kane remain down, with Charlie Haas pulling himself to a cover:
Haas looks damn near out of it thanks to the tree trunk like leg of Big Show, and the big man knows it as he gets up, then begins to stalk Haas … CALLING FOR THE CHOKESLAM! Unaware of his impending fate, Haas remains down, but his partner Shelton Benjamin gets up, SO SHOW GRABS HIM BY THE THROAT INSTEAD! The big man lifts Shelton up, BUT LIKE EARLIER, SHELTON SLIPS OUT BEHIND SHOW! Shelton instantly grabs a waist lock on Show, but 'The World's Largest Athlete' swings an elbow back, only for Shelton to duck it and result in Show catching his foe in a front face lock … when Shelton suddenly charges forward, sending both himself and a shocked Big Show tumbling through the ropes and out to the floor!
In the ring both men are going about slowly pulling themselves up, when Kane looks to suddenly explode out with a right hand, only for Haas to duck it and move behind Kane, who turns … AND HAAS SUDDENLY POPS THE HIPS WITH A SENSATIONAL BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX! The crowd erupts as Kane flops onto his back, with Haas not far behind, chasing him like a dog after its meat … GRABBING HIM BY THE LEGS … AND GETTING IN THE HAAS OF PAIN OUT OF NOWHERE! The crowd gives a big cheer as Kane struggles, but Haas already has it locked in, and he has it in tight! The pain of the hold is clear as Kane's face crunches up, although Haas shows no sympathy; in fact, if anything, he leans back EVEN FURTHER! Jack Doan gets in Kane's face, asking if the big man wants to quit, but he refuses to do so, instead deciding to inch himself towards the ropes, seeking the exit from the hold. Haas though, leans right back, keeping the pressure locked in and making sure that if Kane is going to get to the ropes, he's going to put an even greater strain on his own knees in doing so. 'The Big Red Machine' looks set to make that sacrifice, clawing himself along the mat … BUT HE RAISES HIS HAND …
The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Haas releases the hold, leaving 'The Big Red Machine' to hold the bottom rope. A tired Kane takes his time in getting back to his feet, and Haas shows he's had enough of waiting … MOTIONING FOR THE GERMAN SUPLEX! Haas then runs in and grabs Kane by the waist, looking to pull him from the ropes, but Kane continues to struggle. Haas persists though, and he's able to pull Kane from the ropes, then almost into the air … WHEN SHELTON BENJAMIN SLIDES INTO THE RING … AND LOOKS TO NAIL A SUPERKICK TO THE JAW OF KANE … BUT KANE MOVES … AND BENJAMIN STRIKES HAAS, SENDING HIM DOWN! Benjamin looks shocked … BUT THAT SHOCK DOESN'T LAST LONG AS KANE GRABS HIM BY THE THROAT … CHOKESLAM! Kane slams Benjamin down, then drops across Haas for the cover:
Winners (and still World Tag Team Champions): Kane & Big Show via pinfall @ 15:46
Lilian Garcia:
Here are your winners, and STILL the WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS, KANE AND THE BIG SHOOOOWWWW!
Kane gets back to his feet and calls for his tag title. Jack Doan scurries to retrieve the gold, then hands them to the champions, with Kane having been joined back in the ring by Big Show. The champions proudly showcase their belts, having proven their dominance on the grand stage, while on the outside, The World's Greatest Tag Team are left to regroup.
Joey Styles:
It was a heck of an effort from The World's Greatest Tag Team, but for the first time since Charlie Haas has returned to RAW, and indeed, on the first time the two have been on the same page, they've fallen just short here on the grandest stage of 'em all.
Jonathan Coachman:
What'd I tell you, boys? The World's Greatest Tag Team were good, but in the end there was just one miscommunication, and the World Tag Team Champions capitalised. That's what it takes to be champions, to have the ability to make sure that when you get chance, you win the match.
Jerry Lawler:
That one mistake was indeed all it took, but The World's Greatest Tag Team gave the tag team champions what they wanted, they gave them that test that they were after. Can they bounce back from this loss? I guess we'll have to wait and see.
We linger on the image of the World Tag Team Champions standing tall (literally) in the ring for a moment longer …
… Before cutting backstage to see the locker-room of Booker T (or so the sign on the door tells us). The door remains shut for a bit, before swinging open to reveal ORLANDO JORDAN out first, followed by the UNITED STATES CHAMPION, BOOKER T and Booker's wife, SHARMELL, to some considerable heat. Orlando looks to continue walking after leaving the locker-room, but Booker grabs him by the arm.
Booker T:
Jus' so we're clear … you
know the plan for tonight, right?
Jordans nods away.
Orlando Jordan:
Don't worry, Booker. I've got it.
Booker nods and says something under his breath, before patting OJ on the back, indicating that it's time for them to move.
Back to ringside where Tony Chimel stands in the ring, the bell sounding in the background.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is a Three Way Dance, and it is for the UNIIIITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP! Now in this match elimination rules apply, meaning the last man not to be pinned or forced to submit will become champion.
A very nice pop rings through the Allstate Arena as the former champion and now challenger, CHRIS BENOIT steps out onto the stage. Focused as ever, Benoit simply raises his arms in the air at the top of the ramp, then begins the walk down the ramp.
Tony Chimel:
Introducing first, from EDMONTOMN, ALBERTA, CANADA, weighing 225 lbs, CHRIS BENOOOOIIITTTTT!
A nice pop greets the announcement as Benoit walks down the ramp, slapping hands with the occasional fan, otherwise not paying too much attention to everything that's happening around him.
Michael Cole:
It was half a year ago that Chris Benoit was screwed out of the United States Title by a man that he believed to be his friend, Booker T. Since then we've seen the title vacated and Booker regain it, but all along, the one constant has been Booker's unwillingness to defend the gold against Chris Benoit. Tonight Chris Benoit finally has a shot at the gold, but it's coming in the form of a Three Way Dance, with Booker T's protégé, Orlando Jordan also involved.
And as good as Benoit's been, to me, this whole thing involving Jordan to me means that, plain an' simple, Benoit ain't gonna win this thing. As much I respect the guy, I agree with that bein' the result too. He's had his chance against Booker T, and it's time he moved on.
Benoit finally reaches the foot of the ramp and slides into the ring, once again raising his arms up into the air, before waiting.
The crowd gives a decent mixed reaction for the on again off again protégé of the US Champion, ORLANDO JORDAN. Jordan looks a bit overawed by the occasion, staring out to the crowd, before signalling his initials in the air, almost as if he's waving a wand.
Tony Chimel:
From MIAMI, FFFFLLLLOOOORIDA, weighing 245 lbs, ORLANDO JORDDDAAAANNNNN!
The mixed reaction continues as Orlando Jordan walks down the ramp, not slapping hands with the fans, but rather looking out into them, his eyes wide.
Michael Cole:
While Booker T may be manipulating Orlando Jordan for his own personal gain, Jordan has a point to prove himself here tonight. It was last year when Chris Benoit embarrassed Orlando Jordan, beating him in under a minute multiple times, to take the United States Title. While Orlando came up short against Benoit at No Way Out, a chance here to pin Benoit could mean redemption for Orlando.
And as much as I'm sure Orlando would want it, I don't think Booker's gonna want Orlando to get the pin on Benoit tonight. Tonight this is all about Booker provin' to Benoit that he ain't in Booker's league, and for Booker to do that, he's gonna want to pin Benoit himself.
Jordan walks down the rest of the ramp and climbs up into the ring to pose to the fans, not paying any attention to Benoit at all. In fact, Jordan even goes so far as to avoid eye contact with Benoit, perhaps showing some guilt on his behalf.
Some great heat pours in from the crowd immediately as our UNITED STATES CHAMPION, BOOKER T walks out onto the stage, his wife SHARMELL on his arm. The two walk to the ramp, ignoring everything the fans have to say to them.
Tony Chimel:
And from HAAARRRLEM, TEXAS, weighing 256 lbs, he is the UNIIITED STATES CHAMPIIIOOONNNNN – BOOOOOOOOKKKEERRR T!
Booker and his wife walk halfway down the ramp then come to a sudden halt, Sharmell backing off to point to her man as he jumps up and down, setting his pyro off. The pair, now smiling, make their way down the rest of the ramp.
Michael Cole:
Booker T has now held this title for almost three months, and for Booker tonight will be his first REAL defence since he recaptured the title thanks to Randy Orton and Orlando Jordan. While the odds may be stacked in his favour, could the fact that he hasn't wrestled in a high pressure in a while play on Booker's mind?
First of all, Cole, Booker beat Chris Benoit last month back at Saturday Night's Main Event. Secondly, no. Just no. Booker's an experienced guy. He's a five time WCW Champion. He knows what it's like to be in the pressure situations and he's gonna deal with it just fine here tonight.
Booker makes his way up into the ring, leaving his wife Sharmell on the outside, to parade around with the United States Title. Both Orlando Jordan and Chris Benoit also cast their eyes on the gold as this one gets set to begin.
United States Championship; Three Way Dance:
Chris Benoit
Orlando Jordan
Booker T ©
The crowd cheers as the sound of the bell rings around the arena for our first singles title match of the night being underway, ironically not in a regular singles match. While Booker T and Chris Benoit both stand confidently, Orlando Jordan appears to be a little overawed by the occasion, glancing back and forth nervously. Booker tries to catch his attention, nodding to him as Orlando gulps and Bookers counts up to three … then JUMPS AT BENOIT, attacking him with some HARD right hands. Booker forces Benoit all of the way back to the corner, kicking the match off aggressively as he continues to lay in with the right hands, mixing in some DRIVING knee lifts for good measure.
With Benoit reeling, Booker glances back at Orlando and motions for him to join in, but OJ just continues to stand there like a deer in the headlights while Booker turns right into a FLASHING chop from Chris Benoit. His chest lightened up, Booker attempts to stagger away, but Benoit follows him, hitting a headbutt to send Booker back against the ropes, before following up with an Irish whip, only for Booker to not come back, hanging onto the ropes. Booker then quickly drops from the ring out to the floor, his wife Sharmell quickly joining him as he yells at Orlando Jordan to join him outside the ring.
Orlando glances at Benoit, then decides it's best to listen to Booker, rolling from the ring to join his mentor. Booker, though, doesn't seem to be in too much of an encouraging mood, instantly shouting at Orlando "The hell was dat? You were supposed ta help me! Get yo head in the game!"
Booker then slaps Orlando on the back and walks away, moving to the other side of the ring to leave a nervous Jordan gulp to himself. Chris Benoit remains in the ring, looking on as Booker goes to the opposite side of the ring to Jordan, then shouts out to him "NOW!", prompting Jordan and Booker to both climb up onto the apron. Benoit looks unsure of what to do, glancing back and forth at both men … but before he can decide he's joined in the ring by Booker and Jordan, and despite his best attempts to get to Booker, Orlando tackles him down to the mat.
With Jordan holding him down, Benoit is defenceless and Booker T makes the most of this opportunity to take out his frustrations on his rival who he just can't shake, DRIVING his boot down into him several times with some nasty stomps. Benoit attempts to struggle on the mat, rolling around, but Jordan has a good grip, allowing Booker to continue to stomp away until he decides to drop down and get into a mount position, HAMMERING the head of Benoit with some VICIOUS right hands. The crowd voices their displeasure, but Booker clearly doesn't give a damn, continuing until his heart is content, at which stage he gets up and instructs OJ to lift Benoit too.
Jordan complies with Booker's request, lifting Benoit up and pinning his arms back, allowing Booker to toy with the man who has caused by him so much grief, slapping his cheek playfully, before UNLOADING with a chop across the chest of Benoit! Dancing on the spot, Booker is at his cocky best as he rears back, then SLAPS the chest of Benoit again, much to his delight … but Benoit suddenly starts to struggle … and he snapmares Orlando Jordan over! Booker looks shocked, instantly springing into action as he goes for a right hand, but Benoit ducks, then connects with a HUGE chop to his chest!
Orlando gets up now, turning to Benoit, only to get a chop of his own. Benoit turns back to Booker … chop for him! Orlando now … a chop for him … another for Booker … another for Jordan … Booker … Jordan … Booker … Jordan … Booker … Jordan … BOOKER … JORDAN!
The crowd goes wild with applause, just drowning out the reverberating slapping noise that continues to ring throughout the arena as Benoit quickly follows up, pitching Jordan through the ropes … and he's now in the ring with Booker alone! Booker also notices this, getting back to his feet with his eyes wide, stricken with panic as he turns and tries to run for it, but Benoit grabs him by the hair! An evil smile on his face, Benoit turns Booker, then CRACKS his skull into Booker's with a huge headbutt!
Booker goes down then stumbles back up to his feet, falling into the corner where Benoit follows him to score with some DRIVING boots to the midsection, sending the air out of the lungs of the reigning and defending United States Champion. Content that he's done enough damage, Benoit drags Booker from the corner by the hair, then hooks him up and SNAPS him over with a suplex! Benoit hooks the leg:
Orlando Jordan dives into the ring and breaks up the pin attempt!
The crowd boos as Orlando attempts to follow up, lifting Benoit up and backing him into the corner to land some carefully placed jabs to the jaw. Orlando continues to hammer away, utilising his boxing background, but the blows appear to be doing little damage, and Benoit takes advantage, suddenly turning the tables so he can BLAST Jordan in the chest with some quite literally BLISTERING knife edge chops. With Jordan attempting to stagger from the corner, Benoit grabs him by the hair and continues his control of the match, taking him to another corner to SLAM his face down into the top turnbuckle.
Orlando is dazed, and Benoit looks to take advantage, pushing him back into the corner to score with another chop, before rearing back once more … only for Booker T to come from behind him and land a CLUBBING blow to the back of his neck! Benoit instantly staggers forward, leaning on top of Jordan after the blow, and Booker looks to take advantage, pulling him from the corner and sending him to the ropes with an Irish whip, before SMASHING him in the jaw on the rebound with a reverse elbow!
Benoit goes down like a ton of bricks, nursing his face as Booker motions for a groggy Jordan to come forward. Jordan complies, prompting Booker to say something to him before they lift Benoit up, then hook him up and lift him over, SLAMMING him down into the mat with a double suplex! The crowd shits all over Booker, who climbs back up to his feet, sidles his way across to the corner, then comes out and DROPS his knee down across the nose of Benoit. Booker takes his time, rolling through and looking out to the crowd, basking in the destruction of his foe, while behind him, Orlando makes a cover:
Booker turns around and drags Jordan off the cover!
Orlando gets up, a shocked expression on his face due to this being an elimination match. Booker, though, gets in his face, and shouts "What the hell do you think you're doin'? You don't pin him! I pin him!" Jordan looks shocked, but he tries to ignore it, turning back to Benoit, only for Booker to turn him back and continue to yell at him! The crowd starts to get on Jordan's side, yelling at him to hit Booker, but Jordan looks to turn away again, only for Booker to turn him again … THEN SLAP HIM ACROSS THE FACE!
The crowd gasps in shock as Booker continues to yell at OJ … ONLY FOR JORDAN TO SUDDENLY DECK HIM WITH A RIGHT HAND! Booker gets back up to his feet and immediately gets peppered with some jabs, forcing him back against the ropes where Orlando whips him off from, before sending him over and CRASHING down to the mat with a back body drop! Booker is quick back to his feet, nursing his sore back … and he falls victim to a neckbreaker from Jordan, SNAPPING him into the mat! Orlando hooks the leg:
The crowd groans, although Orlando isn't too fussed about the kick out, climbing back up to his feet and motioning for him to get up … before grabbing him in position for a uranage … but Booker fights free with some WILD elbows to the side of the head of OJ! Now free, Booker runs off to the ropes … but he comes right back into a POWERFUL scoop powerslam from Orlando Jordan! The crowd is in raptures as Orlando gets up and roars out to them with intensity … only for Chris Benoit to come from behind him, then HURL him overhead with a German suplex!
Orlando falls from the ring, leaving Benoit to get up and turn his attention to Booker, who starts to struggle up with the ropes, allowing Benoit to grab him from behind in a waistlock … but Booker holds on to the ropes, then battles free with elbows. Benoit stumbles back, startled by the Booker comeback, allowing Booker to look to press the matter, going for the Harlem side kick … but Benoit ducks … GERMAN SUPLEX … AND THE FINGERS STAY LOCKED! The crowd cheers as Benoit pulls the larger man up off the mat, then lifts him up AND PLANTS HIM WITH A SECOND GERMAN! Benoit keeps going, showing his tenacity as he lifts Booker up for again … AND HE LANDS A THIRD GERMAN SUPLEX!
The crowd applauds the efforts of 'The Rabid Wolverine' as he climbs back to his feet, before driving the crowd crazy by making the throat slashing motion! Thinking he has the United States Champion on the proverbial ropes, Benoit heads for the actual ropes and begins to climb … WHEN SHARMELL CLIMBS UP ONTO THE APRON AND GRABS BENOIT BY THE FOOT! The crowd boos, but in spite of both that and some words from the referee, she refuses to let go! Benoit begins to get frustrated, not wanting to waste any more time, so he wriggles his leg until Sharmell finally falls off it, then looks down at Booker … DIVING HEADBUTT … TO THE CANVAS!
The crowd groans as Booker dodges at the last moment, before climbing back to his feet groggily and lifting Benoit up by the arm, twisting it overhead, then BOOTING Benoit right in the temple! The crowd seems to feel that one, letting out a wince as Booker falls to a cover:
Booker T looks shocked, his eyes wide in disbelief as he questions referee Charles Robinson, before climbing back to his feet and declaring this one as good as done. With Benoit struggling up, Booker begins to dance on the spot, before booting Benoit in the midsection … THEN RUNNING OFF TO THE ROPES, THINKING SCISSORS KICK … BUT ORLANDO JORDAN TRIPS HIM UP FROM THE OUTSIDE! The crowd cheers as Orlando Jordan drags Booker from the ring, then HURLS him into the crowd barrier, before sliding into the ring and charging at Benoit, only to be suddenly taken down … SHARPSHOOTER! BENOIT HOOKS THE LEGS UP, STRUGGLING WITH A FLAILING JORDAN … BUT HE MANAGES TO TURN HIM OVER! THE SHARPSHOOTER IS LOCKED IN!
Orlando Jordan SCREAMS in pain, caught in the hold dead centre in the middle of the ring. With Benoit doing his utmost to cause his opponent to tap, bellowing with intensity, Jordan's plight looks hopeless as the youngster pulls back on his hair, looking to do anything to distract himself from the amazing pain that is shooting through his legs and lower back. Perhaps thinking about how far he's come, Jordan refuses to tap, at least for now, instead choosing to fight as he begins to scratch and claw his way along the mat, pulling himself towards the ropes. Realising Benoit is trying to pull him one way, Jordan turns a little, looking to go to a different set of ropes, allowing himself to get a few inches closer, but Benoit continues to apply the pressure, causing submission to perhaps become the only logical option.
Jordan, however, digs down deep, just like he did at No Way Out against Benoit, pulling himself to the ropes with every last bit of strength he has. Closer and closer he gets, with Benoit upping the pressure even more, doing all he can to make Jordan tap … AS JORDAN RAISES HIS HAND IN THE AIR …
The crowd cheers for the effort of Jordan as he holds onto the bottom rope with all of his might, waiting for Benoit to break the hold … WHEN BENOIT SUDDENLY GETS KICKED IN THE SIDE OF THE HEAD WITH THE HARLEM SIDE KICK BY BOOKER T!
The crowd boos as Benoit falls in a heap, with Booker quick to pick him up and then pitch him through the ropes so he can turn his attention to his (likely now former) protégé. With a fire in his eyes, Booker shouts at Orlando to get up and turn around, which, with assistance from the ropes, Jordan slowly does … STAGGERING RIGHT INTO A RING SHAKING SPINEBUSTER! The crowd boos as Booker plants Jordan, but he doesn't make the cover … instead looking up with his eyes wide … it's time for a WrestleMania spinaroonie! The crowd boos the arrogance of Booker as he busts out the old spinaroonie, his wife applauding him all the way along before he gets up and once again shouts at OJ to get up.
Jordan looks near out of it, the whiplash of the spinebuster having taken effect, but nonetheless he still battles his way back up to his feet, right into a kick to the midsection from Booker … WHO DASHES OFF TO THE ROPES … SCISSORS KICK TO HIS FORMER PROTÉGÉ … NO, ORLANDO DUCKS OUT OF THE WAY … AND SUDDENLY PLANTS BOOKER T WITH A JUMPING REVERSE STO! ORLANDO PLANTS HIS MENTOR WITH THE BLACK MAGIC!
The crowd GOES NUTS as Orlando quickly jumps on the cover:
THE CROWD IS IN SHOCK! Booker T, the United States Champion is the first man eliminated by his own protégé! Orlando Jordan has finally stood up to the man who he said was not on his level and pinned him! Jordan is perhaps more shocked than anyone, getting back to his feet and looking down at Booker, eyes wide … when Chris Benoit suddenly comes from behind him … GERMAN SUPLEX … AND THE FINGERS STAY LOCKED! Benoit lifts Jordan back up … AND CONNECTS WITH A SECOND GERMAN SUPLEX! With all of his might, Benoit now hauls Jordan up a second time … TO HIT THE THIRD GERMAN SUPLEX! The crowd cheers as Benoit gets up and signals for the end, heading to the corner, unimpeded this time as he goes up to the top rope … BEFORE COMING CRASHING DOWN WITH THE DIVING HEADBUTT ON ORLANDO JORDAN!
Jordan writhes in pain for a moment, before then lying still, perhaps knocked out. Benoit, though, has to take time to pull himself back together after the move, feeling at his head before pulling himself to a cover:
The crowd gives a stifled pop, not sure who to support as Jordan springs his shoulder up off the mat. An intense looking Benoit curses to himself under his breath, before getting up … AND GRABBING THE LEGS … SHARPSHOOTER AGAIN … NO, JORDAN FIGHTS HIM OFF! OJ takes the time to get back to his feet as Benoit looks to charge back in at him … only to get SMASHED in the mouth with a beautiful dropkick out of nowhere from Orlando Jordan! Benoit falls to the mat momentarily, before looking to get right back at as Orlando Jordan runs off to the ropes … AND ORLANDO PLANTS BENOIT AGAIN WITH A RUNNING STO! BENOIT'S HEAD SLAMS BACK INTO THE MAT! Orlando quickly hooks the leg:
Jordan is shocked, looking at the referee to make sure it was just two, before getting back up, looking down at Benoit … AS HE SETS HIMSELF FOR THE BLACK MAGIC! The crowd cheers as Orlando moves a few steps back and squats down, waiting on Benoit to get up, which he slowly does, before turning to see Orlando … AND JORDAN RUNS AND JUMPS … BLACK MAGIC … NO, BENOIT PUSHES ORLANDO OFF TO THE CORNER! The aggressive Benoit then looks go on the attack quickly, charging in at Orlando, but OJ is able to get a boot up. Benoit staggers back, and the hungry youngster looks to take advantage, charging out … STO … NO! BENOIT DUCKS … THEN GRABS ORLANDO … CRIPPLER CROSSFACE … BUT HE CAN'T QUITE LOCK IT IN!
Orlando struggles around, knowing that being caught in the hold will result in sure defeat. However, Benoit keeps struggling too, grabbing the arm of Orlando and trying to wrap his legs around it as Orlando continues to flail … ONLY FOR BENOIT TO GET IT! BENOIT'S GOT THE CRIPPLER CROSSFACE LOCKED IN! The crowd cheers as Benoit arches back, pulling on the head of OJ … ORLANDO SUDDENLY ROLLS BACK THOUGH, GOING WITH WHERE BENOIT'S PULLING, PINNING BENOIT'S SHOULDERS TO THE MAT:
Winner (and NEW United States Champion): Orlando Jordan via pinfall @ 15:05
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, and the NEEWWWWWW UNIIIITED STATES CHAMPIIOOONNNN – ORLANDO JOOORRRRDDAAANNNN!
The crowd gives a pretty great pop, perhaps mostly out of surprise as Orlando Jordan climbs back to his feet victorious. His eyes wide, Jordan simply cannot believe it, and things only get crazier for him when he's handed the United States Title.
Michael Cole:
Orlando Jordan! Orlando Jordan has pinned both his now former mentor, Booker T, AND Chris Benoit, meaning he is now our NEW United States Champion. What a way for the first title change to occur tonight!
What a way indeed. I gotta say, I didn't see this comin', not in a thousand years, but big ups to Orlando. This is a huge win for him, and it just shows how far he's come. This time last year he was champion, but he wouldn't have stood a chance against the likes of Chris Benoit an' Booker T. Here tonight he beat the both of 'em.
Michael Cole:
Neither Chris Benoit nor Booker T can be happy, but what a first title change. What a way to set the tone for the rest of the night. Orlando Jordan, the NEW United States Champion.
Orlando Jordan continues to celebrate with the gold in the ring as we fade away.
We open up our shot to a scene of people enjoying a good time running around the beach.
After a long summer of fun in the sun, the tide is coming in …
An image of the water washing up on the sand.
The sun is setting …
The sun is shown setting on the horizon.
And the fun is coming to an end …
A family pack up their beach ball into a bag … and start to walk off into the sunset … when they suddenly stop …
At least for some …
… To see Edge slamming a chair into the back of John Cena, right in front of them.
But for the superstars of the WWE …
Numerous WWE superstars now rush onto the beach.
The party … has only just begun.
Shots of superstars rushing around the beach as Edge again slams the chair into the back of Cena, a broad smile on his face. Cena, meanwhile, is on agony in the sand.
WWE SummerSlam – A Four Hour Spectacular – August 20th, 2006
Back to ringside, where we now see a number of ladders surrounding our announce tables, the focus being on both of the announce tables from RAW and SmackDown!.
Joey Styles:
That's right ladies and gentlemen, this year SummerSlam will indeed be a FOUR HOUR spectacular, returning it to the glory days. However, our focus now turns to what we'll see up next, which, as you can see around us, can only be Money in the Bank.
Jonathan Coachman:
And what a match it's gonna be. Personally, I can't wait to see that Money in the Bank briefcase comin' on back to Monday Night RAW.
Jerry Lawler:
I don't agree with 'Coach' all that much, but I have to agree with him here. That Money in the Bank briefcase has to be coming to Monday Night RAW. Have you seen the talent we've got in this match?
Michael Cole:
Hey, hang on a minute there, guys. We've seen the talent you've got in there, and sure, it's impressive, but Monday Night RAW has nothing on Friday Night SmackDown!.
Exactly right, Cole. Money in the Bank is all about SmackDown! this year. The only reason you didn't let us in there last year is 'cause you know the SmackDown! guys woulda upstaged ya.
The commentators fall silent as the bell rings and we see Howard Finkel standing in the ring.
Howard Finkel:
The following contest is the MONEY IN THE BANK LAAADDDDDDEERRRR MATCH! Now the rules in this match are simple. All eight participants will compete with the aim to climb a ladder and unhook the briefcase that is suspended above the ring. The man who successfully does this will win the match and earn himself a shot at any world title over the next twelve months.
Silence …
A great reaction of heat from the Allstate Arena as they see GREGORY HELMS crouched down at the top of the stage, the spotlight shining down on him. Once the beat kicks in, Helms springs to life, raising his arm up to walk down the ramp.
Howard Finkel:
Introducing first, from RRRRRALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA, weighing 215 lbs, GGGGGRRRREGORY HEELLLLLMMMSSSSS!
The heat continues as Helms walks down the ramp, bopping his head to the beat, arm still raised in the air. The abuse from ringside rains in, but Helms pays it no heed, looking ready for the occasion.
Joey Styles:
If we're talking about the favourites for this match, then you have to go no further than this man Gregory Helms. 2006 has been a breakout year for Helms. He's been undefeated, beating the likes of 'The King' here, Shawn Michaels, as well as making it to the final four of the Royal Rumble Match. If Helms can win tonight, he will be securing his spot as a future main eventer here on Monday Night RAW.
Jonathan Coachman:
I've said it all along, Joe, this man Gregory Helms is destined for greatness. He was the first man to qualify for the Money in the Bank Ladder Match, and ever since then he's head a deposit on that briefcase. Tonight is the night that he's gonna cash in.
Michael Cole:
I'll admit, watching Helms of late, he has been mighty impressive, and he has to be considered one of the men to beat tonight. His agility is going to certainly come in handy too, thanks to the nature of this match.
Helms doesn't get much further than halfway down the ramp when we hear …
The response from the crowd is slightly mixed, with some smarky cheers as the bold and brash MR. KENNEDY swaggering his way out onto the ramp. Full of confidence, Kennedy throws his hand up into the air on the stage, doing his signature taunt.
Howard Finkel:
Mr. Kennedy:
Hey, hey, Fink. I know you've done this thing at a few WrestleManias and that you're … well, you're okay at this, but how about you shut your trap, and watch how a
professional does it?
The crowd boos Kennedy, who has his signature microphone on the stage (for those of you who hadn't caught on).
Mr. Kennedy:
Ladies and gentlemen, at this time, I would like to introduce you to a man who is, quite simply, a winner. A man who, for the past six months, has been revolutionising the sports entertainment industry as we know it. A man who has beaten five – count 'em one, two, three, four,
former world champions … from GREEEENNNN BAAAAYYYYY … WISCONSIIINNNNNN … WEIGHING AN INCREDIBLE 246 LBS … HE IS THE
Kennedy pauses, holding his hand up in the air.
Mr. Kennedy:
Kennedy now throws his microphone up in the air, then begins to make his way down the ramp, mouthing off to the fans as he insists he'll win tonight.
Michael Cole:
He's brash, he's cocky, but could he be the future 'Mr. Monday in the Bank'? Mr. Kennedy has only lost twice on SmackDown! since debuting here six months ago, and tonight could well be his night to "revolutionise" sports entertainment, as he puts it.
This man right here is one of my favourites. You say Gregory Helms is fast, that he's been the shootin' star on RAW? Well here's SmackDown!'s version, and lemme tell ya, we do things just as well, if not better than you guys over there on RAW.
Jerry Lawler:
Mr. Kennedy has been impressive over there on Friday Night SmackDown!, but if anybody is gonna let their ego get the better of them, it's gonna be this guy. Just imagine if he does win Money in the Bank. He's gonna be saying it so loud that we'll be able to hear it on RAW over from him on SmackDown!.
Kennedy continues to stride down the ramp, as we hear …
More good heat from the crowd as this time it is the man from the Caribbean, CARLITO making his way out. A smirk on his face, Carlito happily tosses his apple up and down as he starts his way on down the ramp.
Howard Finkel:
From SAN JUUUAAANNNN, PUERTO RICO, weighing 225 lbs, CAAAARRRRLITOOOOOOO!
The man from the Caribbean continues his way down the ramp, mouthing off to the crowd, pointing up to the briefcase while he does so.
Joey Styles:
Carlito is another young superstar who is hungry for success here. He won the United States Title on his very night on SmackDown!. He won the Intercontinental Title on his very first night on RAW. Tonight, could he win the Money in the Bank briefcase at his very first WrestleMania?
Jonathan Coachman:
If there's one guy who could pull off all three of those things, it's Carlito. Look at him. He's so cool in these situations. He knows what he's gotta do, and nothin' is gonna throw him off his game.
But what I wanna know is where Chris Masters is? The past week we've been seein' Masters do Carlito's dirty work for him, so why isn't he out here tonight? What's the deal there?
Carlito makes his way down the ramp as we ponder that, before hearing …
A very nice pop from the crowd as the athletic youngster, PAUL LONDON charges out onto the stage. Showing no fear, London walks under a couple of ladders as he acknowledges the fans on both sides of the stage.
Howard Finkel:
From AUSTIINNNNN, TEXAS, weighing 195 lbs, PAAAUUULLLL LOOOOONNNDDDOOONNNN!
Another good pop as London looks to either side of the stage, before beginning his run down the ramp, not caring how long it is.
Michael Cole:
A couple of months ago, if you had said Paul London was in with a good shot at becoming 'Mr. Money in the Bank', people would have called you crazy, but over the past few months this kid has really broken out, taking Randy Orton to the limit AND pinning Mr. Kennedy.
And don't forget what London's been sayin' on SmackDown!. He's been sayin' that tonight, he's gonna do somethin' unexpected, that he's gonna steal the show. Could he do it by becoming 'Mr. Money in the Bank'? I'm not gonna say no.
Jerry Lawler:
Paul London really has been impressive of late. I don't know if he can win tonight, but as you said Tazz, he said he wants to do something crazy, and I could see him doing that and stealing the spotlight.
London continues his charge down the ramp as we hear …
A solid pop rings through the Allstate Arena as CHAVO GUERRERO steps out onto the stage, motioning for the crowd to get to their feet and get excited. A smile on his face, Guerrero then begins to walk down the ramp.
Howard Finkel:
From EL PASO, TEXAS, weighing 205 lbs, CHAAAAVVVVOOOO GUERRRRREEERRROOOOO!
Another good pop as Chavo raises his arm, pointing to the heavens above as he walks down the ramp.
Joey Styles:
This weekend has been absolutely massive for Chavo Guerrero. Last night he was one of the three men to induct his late, great uncle Eddie Guerrero into the WWE Hall of Fame, and tonight he could cap off a huge weekend for him and his family by becoming 'Mr. Money in the Bank'.
Jerry Lawler:
Chavo Guerrero is a guy that you can never count out, there's no doubting that, and the emotions from this weekend could drive him on tonight. He's another of those guys that is so agile that he has to be a favourite in a Ladder Match too.
Chavo Guerrero spent a long time over here on Friday Night SmackDown!, and I gotta say, I think he's got what it takes to maybe one day become a world champion. Can he set that up for himself tonight? I dunno, but to me, Chavo is one of those world champions just waitin' to happen.
Chavo continues his walk on down the ramp, joining the mass of bodies in the ring, when we hear …
A pretty nice pop emanates from the Allstate Arena as the no fuss Irishman, FINLAY walks out onto the ramp. With his shillelagh in hand, Finlay certainly means business, looking as intense as ever.
Howard Finkel:
From BELFAASSTTTT, NORTHERN IRELAND, weighing 235 lbs, FIIINNLLLLAAAYYYY!
Finlay gains himself another nice pop there, though he doesn't recognise it, instead choosing to continue to walk down the ramp without fuss.
Michael Cole:
He may not be as fast as the others, and he's not as strong as a guy like Mark Henry, but Finlay has both the experience, and the drive to succeed here. 'The Fighting Irishman' is a veteran of this sport, having won many titles, but one title that has always evaded him has been the world title.
And I know Finlay, and I know that not bein' a world champion before gets to him. He wants to prove that he's one of the toughest S.O.Bs in the world, and the way to do that is to win a world title.
Jerry Lawler:
Finlay's toughness could be a major factor here too. With eight men and a lot of ladders, you know you're going to get hurt. It could come down to a battle of attrition, and if it does, then this man has a great chance of winning.
'The Fighting Irishman' continues his march down the ramp to the sound of …
The crowd gives what has to be the biggest pop of the night thus far, as the INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION, RIC FLAIR styles and profiles his way out onto the stage. Dressed in one of his finest robes and with the title gleaming out from under it, Flair happily walks down that aisle to cries of "WOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" from the crowd.
Howard Finkel:
From CHARLOOOTTTTTEEEE, NORTH CAROLINA, weighing 255 lbs, he is the INTERCONTINENNNNTTTAALLLL CHAMPIIOOONNNN, 'THE NATUUURRREEEE BOY' RIC – FLAAAIIIRRRR!
Another good pop from the crowd as 'The Nature Boy' makes his way down the ramp, the crooked smile on his face.
Joey Styles:
If there's a sentimental favourte here tonight at all, then it HAS to be Ric Flair. The current Intercontinental Champion and a former SIXTEEN TIME world champion, Flair has endured claims from Gregory Helms over the past few months that he simply isn't up to it anymore, and something tells me Flair would do ANYTHING to prove him wrong.
Jonathan Coachman:
Flair may want to do anything, but if ya ask me, this just isn't his match. Sure, he's won the world title sixteen times, but Ric Flair has NEVER been in a Ladder Match. Do you really think he's gonna be able to win his first against seven other hungry superstars?
'Coach', even though he's from RAW, if there's one thing I know, it's that you can never count out Ric Flair. This may be his first Ladder Match, but Flair does stuff that no other men can do based on his fight, and that may be enough for him to get a win here tonight.
Flair continues his way down the ramp as we hear the sound of …
The biggest and baddest man in the match, 'The World's Strongest Man' MARK HENRY makes his way out onto the stage … TO SEE FINLAY ALREADY RUSHING TOWARDS HIM! The referee calls for the bell at ringside, getting the action underway right there.
Money in the Bank Ladder Match:
Gregory Helms
Mr. Kennedy
Paul London
Chavo Guerrero
Ric Flair
Mark Henry
The crowd goes NUTS as Finlay does just as he said he would, bringing the fight to Mark Henry at the top of the ramp! Henry, perhaps thinking Finlay was bluffing on SmackDown!, has been caught somewhat off guard, and is on the defensive as 'The Fighting Irishman' LAMBASTS big Mark with his right hand. In the ring, the other six men have now swung into action, with two little fights breaking out, one between former rivals Paul London and Chavo Guerrero, the other between another set of former rivals in Carlito and Ric Flair. The two little brawls move into the corner, leaving the opportunistic duo of Gregory Helms and Mr. Kennedy to slide from the ring and go for the ladders, bringing the toys into this one early.
As Finlay and Mark Henry brawl with one another on the ramp, Kennedy and Helms slide into the ring, glancing at each other, before going and simultaneously SMASHING their foes in the face with the ladders, Kennedy scoring on London, Helms on Carlito. Chavo and Flair are next, each suffering a blow to the head too, sending the four men who were brawling out of the ring already. This leaves Helms and Kennedy in the ring alone to look at one another, neither wanting to make the first move … when all of a sudden, Finlay COMES OUT OF NOWHERE, and sends BOTH MEN down with a double clothesline!
Having left Henry reeling on the outside, Finlay decides to go to work on Mr. Kennedy, pitching Helms through the ropes to join the other men at the foot of the ramp. Finlay then kicks one of the ladders away, before grabbing the other one, lifting it up … and running STRAIGHT THROUGH Ken Kennedy, SMASHING the ladder into his jaw! The crowd responds positively for 'The Fighting Irishman', but he's not done yet, now laying the ladder down over the top of the body of Mr. Kennedy, before taking off to the ropes and coming back with a cannonball, SQUASHING THE LADDER DOWN ACROSS MR. KENNEDY!
The crowd gives a big pop for this, along with a little chant of "Holy shit!" as Kennedy writhes on the mat, Finlay seated next to him, not looking too comfortable either. On the outside, we now see the five other men trying to club away on the rising Mark Henry, looking to wear him down … but Henry throws his arms up and shoves them away with ease! Carlito is the first to recover, charging back across at Henry, right into a sickening clothesline, sending him down to the mats with a thud! Ric Flair charges next, receiving a big right hand that sends him rolling away, before Gregory Helms gets the same, and Chavo Guerrero gets a boot right to the face!
Having recovered inside the ring, Finlay notices what's happening on the outside, then takes action, quickly exiting the ring and heading for Mark Henry into an ALL OUT BRAWL! The crowd goes nuts as the two exchange right hands, fists flying EVERYWHERE, with neither man wanting to give even an inch! While Paul London rolls into the ring in the background, the two men continue to go at it, Finlay eventually getting an advantage as he slams the head of Mark Henry into the barricade! He then looks to follow up, headbutting Henry, but the blow looks to do more damage to Finlay then it does to Mark Henry! With Finlay now dizzy, Henry takes advantage, CREAMING Finlay with a BIG clothesline!
Being the only man left standing outside the ring, Mark Henry roars emphatically, beating his chest … but on the inside of the ring, Paul London has leaned a ladder against the ropes, and he runs over to it … THEN ACROSS IT … BEFORE COMING DOWN ONTO HENRY … WITH A PHENOMENAL SHOOTING STAR PRESS, WIPING MARK HENRY OUT!
The crowd goes absolutely CRAZY at the sight of Mark Henry finally being taken down by the insane exploits of Paul London … BUT INSIDE THE RING MR. KENNEDY HAS A LADDER, AND HE STARTS TO CLIMB IT! The Green Bay native looks to take advantage of all of the carnage, climbing up the ladder:
Chavo pulls Kennedy down from the ladder by the tights, then kicks him in the midsection and hurls him through the ropes, out to the floor. Looking to take advantage himself now, Chavo begins to climb up the ladder … ONLY TO BE SUDDENLY STRUCK IN THE BACK BY A LADDER! From the apron, Gregory Helms grabs the ladder and hurls it into the back of Chavo Guerrero, causing him to fall from the ladder, down to his hands and knees, his back aching in pain. Helms shows no sympathy though, climbing into the ring and grabbing Chavo … THEN QUICKLY DRILLING HIM WITH THE VERTREBREAKER!
Chavo flops from the ring, having just been laid out by Helms, with 'The Shooting Star' now seeing an opportunity to climb the ladder that's still up himself. Helms quickly begins to climb … but before he can get anywhere, Ric Flair is back in the ring, and he pulls Gregory Helms back to the mat, then LIGHTS up his chest with a big chop! The crowd cheers along as Flair continues to SLAP the chest of Helms, only for Helms to finally cut Flair off with a thumb to the eye! The crowd boos the antics of Helms, who quickly picks up the ladder that has remained on the mat since Helms threw it at Chavo, before lifting it up in the air … but Flair acts before Helms can strike … GRABBING HIM BY THE NUTS!
Flair has the nut claw locked in, and Helms can do nothing but jump around in pain, dropping the ladder to the mat as Flair continues to SQUEEZE … until Paul London suddenly SOARS THROUGH THE AIR, striking Flair in the back with a SPRINGBOARD MISSILE DROPKICK!
Both Helms and Flair go tumbling from the ring, leaving the coast clear for Paul London to begin to climb the ladder, but this proves to only be momentarily, as Carlito rolls into the ring, then SPRINGS through the air, wiping Paul London out with a flying reverse elbow! Carlito is left as the only man standing in the ring, leading him to repositioning the ladder under the briefcase, having been knocked around a bit, before climbing up. The crowd boos with Carlito being the only man in sight as he scurries up the ladder:
The crowd buzzes as Carlito continues to climb … ONLY TO BE DRAGGED DOWN BY MARK HENRY! Henry has a look that indicates he's less than happy, staring Carlito right in the eye … BEFORE SCOOPING HIM UP AND SLAMMING HIM DOWN WITH THE WORLD'S STRONGEST SLAM!
The crowd gasps as Carlito rolls from the ring, with Mr. Kennedy the next to roll into the ring … RIGHT INTO MARK HENRY … WORLD'S STRONGEST SLAM TO MR. KENNEDY! KK goes rolling out from the ring, yelping in pain, with Chavo Guerrero the next to roll into the ring, turning Mark Henry around and striking him with a right hand to the face … BUT HENRY JUST STANDS THERE … THEN LIFTS CHAVO UP AND SLAMS HIM DOWN DAMN NEAR THROUGH THE MAT WITH THE WORLD'S STRONGEST SLAM!
The crowd goes absolutely ballistic as Chavo goes rolling from the ring, being replaced by Ric Flair, who SLAPS Henry in the chest with some knife edge chops, hitting him time and time again … BUT HENRY SHAKES THEM OFF TOO … LIFTING FLAIR UP AND SLAMMING HIM DOWN INTO HIS FORMERLY BROKEN BACK WITH THE WORLD'S STRONGEST SLAM!
Flair shouts at the top of his lungs in pain, rolling from the ring, with Gregory Helms now sliding in, kicking away at the knee of Mark Henry, looking to find a chink in the armour of 'The World's Strongest Man' … BUT ALL HE FINDS IS HIMSELF ON THE RECEIVING END OF THE WORLD'S STRONGEST SLAM!
Mark Henry disposes of yet another man, turning … AS PAUL LONDON FLIES THROUGH THE AIR, TRYING TO WIPE MARK HENRY OUT WITH ANOTHER FLYING ATTACK … BUT HENRY CATCHES HIM THIS TIME … AND WIPES HIM OUT WITH THE WORLD'S STRONGEST SLAM!
It is absolute pandemonium, the crowd shocked at the dominance of 'The World's Strongest Man', who is now the last man left standing. Roaring intensely, Henry lets the crowd know just how dominant he is, before heading for the ladder that has fallen down against the ropes. Henry looks at the steel apparatus, before setting it up in the middle of the ring … and the crowd looks on in awe as the largest man in the match begins to climb the ladder! Henry is clearly not as fast as the others in the ring, but bit by bit he ascends up the ladder:
The crowd cheers as the Northern Irishman quickly makes his way up the ladder, absolutely refusing to back down from the big man, THEN BEGINS TO EXCHANGE FISTS WITH THE BIG MAN ON TOP OF THE LADDER! The crowd continues to cheer wildly as both men swing for the fences, neither letting up, with both remaining on top of the now shaky ladder … WHEN CARLITO SUDDENLY ROLLS INTO THE RING … THEN PUSHES THE LADDER … SENDING FINLAY CRASHING TO THE OUTSIDE … BUT MARK HENRY LANDS ON HIS FEET IN THE RING! Henry lands on his feet … ONLY FOR CARLITO TO GET HIM FROM BEHIND … BACKCRACKER! CARLITO SENDS MARK HENRY ROLLING OUT THROUGH THE ROPES WITH THE BACKCRACKER!
Carlito, however, cannot follow up on the move, instead clutching at his knees on the mat, having just brought a hell of a lot of weight down onto them. This gives Mr. Kennedy a chance, as he slides into the ring and grabs a ladder, setting it up in the middle of the ring, before gingerly climbing:
The attention is taken away from KK, as the crowd suddenly gives heat for
, who comes charging down the ramp! Masters is quick to grab a ladder, then set it up next to Kennedy, quickly lifting Carlito up onto his shoulders, CARRYING CARLITO UP THE LADDER HIMSELF!
Kennedy, who now has three rungs to go, looks shocked, as he stops to kick away at the face of Masters, stopping him as Chavo Guerrero slides into the ring and moves in … GETTING BETWEEN THE LEGS OF MASTERS AND GRABBING HIM, PULLING HIM FROM THE LADDER … THEN STAGGERING TO THE ROPES, WHERE HE POWERBOMBS MASTERS OVER, OUT OF THE RING AND ONTO THE DAZED MARK HENRY, WIPING HIM OUT COMPLETELY!
The crowd erupts as our attention turns back to the ladders, with a hurt Carlito still struggling next to Kennedy, who elbows him in the temple a few times, before scooping Carlito up onto his shoulders … roaring out to the crowd … AND JUMPING … KENNEDY NAILS CARLITO WITH THE GREEN BAY PLUNGE OFF THE LADDER!
The crowd's reaction of "HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!" pretty much sums up the situation, leaving a drained Chavo Guerrero as the only man up in the ring, staggering towards one of the ladders. Guerrero, despite his grogginess, has time on his side, and he slowly begins to climb the ladder, inching his way up towards the briefcase:
Chavo is suddenly joined in the ring by Gregory Helms, who tries to scurry up the ladder as quickly as possible:
Helms grabs Chavo and pulls his head back, getting him in an inverted front facelock, stopping him from rising any further … BEFORE SENDING BOTH MEN PLUMMETTING DOWN TO THE MAT WITH THE NIGHTMARE ON HELMS STREET!
The crowd again erupts with cries of "HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!" as both men remain down on the mat … and Paul London rolls into the ring! Eyes wide, London begins to climb up the ladder, seeking to cause an upset:
BUT HE DOESN'T GRAB THE BRIEFCASE! Instead, Paul London looks down at Mr. Kennedy, who is starting to stir after his big Green Bay Plunge, and perhaps thinking about what he promised coming into the match, looks out to the crowd, who give a huge pop, before London nods … THEN JUMPS INTO THE AIR … AND COMES DOWN ONTO HIS RIVAL KENNEDY WITH AN INSANE 450 SPLASH!
The crowd absolutely loses it, going crazy as Paul London regains his footing, holding his ribs in pain, having given us something to remember … BUT THAT DOESN'T STOP HIM FROM TURNING RIGHT INTO A SHILLELAGH SHOT TO THE HEAD FROM FINLAY! The crowd gives a mixed reaction as London falls from the ring, Finlay having just used his plain, old offense to level him.
With victory in his sight, Finlay turns … RIGHT INTO A LADDER TO THE HEAD FROM RIC FLAIR! Flair gives Finlay a taste of his own medicine (of sorts), slamming the steel into his skull! With Finlay now gone from the ring, Flair stands with the ladder in hand, in his very first ladder match … AND EVERYONE ELSE IS DOWN! Flair can do it! The crowd notices this too, and they begin to will 'The Nature Boy' on, who resets his ladder up in the middle of the ring, knocking the other one out of the way, before slowly beginning to climb:
The crowd erupts with heat as Flair sags down across the ladder, while Helms quickly makes his way across to the other side of the ladder, and begins to climb:
Helms is irate, not believing that Flair is still holding on, thinking he had gotten rid of him once and for all, but Ric Flair just won't let go, fighting on, not allowing the youngster to pass him by. Helms fires up, STARTING TO LAMBAST FLAIR WITH RIGHT HANDS, TELLING HIM TO DIE … AND FLAIR LOOKS TO BEGIN TO FALL! Helms is going to do it as he continues to blast Ric Flair, sending the veteran down and out, rising above him … BUT RIC FLAIR SUDDENLY FIGHTS BACK! 'THE NATURE BOY' FIRES OFF A SUDDEN BURST OF CHOPS, SHOWING THERE'S STILL LIFE IN THE OLD DOG … AND HE SENDS GREGORY HELMS FALLING DOWN TO THE MAT!
The crowd absolutely erupts as Flair regains his footing, then reaches up …
Winner: Ric Flair via event @ 13:48
Howard Finkel:
Here is your winner, 'THE NATUUURREEEE BOOOOYYYY' RIC – FLAAAIIIRRRRRR!
The crowd goes absolutely wild as Flair stands tall at the top of the ladder, holding the briefcase high in the air, a broad smile on his face. Down below the seven superstars look on, seeing Flair standing tall.
Joey Styles:
Ric Flair has done it! Ric Flair has done it! Against all odds, 'The Nature Boy', almost twice the age of some of the other superstars in this match, has captured the Money in the Bank briefcase, perhaps leading way to number seventeen!
Jonathan Coachman:
I don't believe it … I'm … I'm stunned.
Jerry Lawler:
It was close, but in the end 'The Nature Boy' had the fight, had the drive to win. Gregory Helms may have said Ric was done, but I'm willing to bet that Ric just showed Gregory Helms more fight than he ever believed Ric had.
Michael Cole:
Congratulations must be given to Ric Flair. As you said Joey, the odds were against him. This was his FIRST Ladder Match, yet he's fought off seven other hungry superstars, and he has given himself a shot at getting his SEVENTEENTH world title.
Congratulations to Ric for sure. He did what many never thought he could do, and who knows, he could now be on his way to addin' to that legendary tally of world titles.
We continue to see Flair standing tall on the ladder, the smile on his face still there …
… Before we cut backstage to see the MONDAY NIGHT RAW GENERAL MANAGER, ERIC BISCHOFF, the FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN! GENERAL MANAGER, THEODORE LONG and MR. MCMAHON all sitting on the couch from earlier. As you'd imagine, there's a mighty big smile on Bischoff's face, with RAW having just picked up a big victory.
Eric Bischoff:
What was it you said earlier, Teddy? That that … that that was how SmackDown! did it? Well let me tell you Teddy, that … [I[]THAT[/i] is how Monday Night RAW does things.
A little smile comes across Long's face.
Theodore Long:
I gotta say, Ric Flair was great.
Eric Bischoff:
Ric Flair? Ric Flair? What about me? What about Eric Bischoff?
Theodore Long:
Well you didn't win the match, Eric. Ric Flair did.
Mr. McMahon chuckles away to himself.
Mr. McMahon:
It's not gonna be THAT easy to impress me, Eric, but keep trying. I have to say though, that was a great effort from Ric-
McMahon suddenly stops halfway through is sentence, looking like he's seen a ghost.
Mr. McMahon:
What is … what is
doing here?
The camera turns … and we see SHAWN MICHAELS standing there, the now normal serious expression on his face.
Shawn Michaels:
You wanted to see me, Mr. Bischoff?
Bischoff rises up from the couch.
Eric Bischoff:
Yes Shawn … yes I did. I just wanted to say ahead of your match tonight … good luck. I hope you do what you have to do.
Shawn Michaels nods.
Shawn Michaels:
Don't worry, I will. Triple H … Triple H is as good as gone …
for good
Shawn Michaels turns on his heel and exits the room, leaving the three authority figures to look on …
… Before we cut back to ringside to see the SmackDown! announce team.
Michael Cole:
Chilling. Absolutely chilling.
That's gonna be a heck of a match later between Shawn Michaels and Triple H. It don't get any more personal than that.
Michael Cole:
It sure doesn't, and that will be a No Holds Barred Match, but ladies and gentlemen, coming up next it'll be the Cruiserweight Title match, with not just the title, but also perhaps the tag of being the greatest cruiserweight of all-time on the line. The champion Kid Kash defends against Rey Mysterio, and right now, let's take a look at how it all began.
We open with the Cruiserweight Champion, Kid Kash in the ring on the SmackDown! following No Way Out.
Kid Kash:
Well as much as I just hate to say I told ya' so …
The crowd boos, drawing a smirk out of Kash as he drops the microphone down by his hip, before slowly lifting it to speak again.
Kid Kash:
I have beaten everyone there is to beat. I've beaten all o' the cruiserweights. All of 'em. There is no denyin' no that I am, without a shadow of a doubt, the
cruiserweight, not just on SmackDown!, but in
. I am … the man. And y'know what? It's time to make that official.
The crowd doesn't quite know how to react to that.
Kid Kash:
Ever since I became Cruiserweight Champ, there's been one man who's been doin' his best to screw me. Each an' every week he's been stackin' the odds against me. But now … now I've done it all. There ain't nothin' more for me to do. So Teddy Long …
Small pop from the crowd.
Kid Kash:
I want you to come on down here and officially announce me the greatest cruiserweight of all-time, right here tonight.
The crowd boos, but nothing happens.
Kid Kash:
I'm a patient man, Teddy. I can wait alllllllllllll night. As a matter o' fact, I may just set up camp in right here in the ring.
Kash heads towards the ropes and leans over them, looking at Tony Chimel.
Kid Kash:
Hey tubs, get me a chair.
Chimel looks a little startled, but he does as he's told, not wanting to get on the wrong side of Kid Kash. The pudgy announcer grabs a steel chair, then starts to head towards the ropes, when …
The crowd gives an absolutely huge pop as Rey Mysterio emerges from the stage, bursting out onto the scene with a big leap, pyro following under him. KK takes notice in the ring, turning to see Mysterio and snarling. Mysterio is in a bit more of a rush to make his way down to the ring than normal tonight, marching down with a purpose, before climbing up into the ring and receiving a microphone.
Kid Kash:
Hey, hey, what do ya' think you're doin'? I'm talkin' out here.
Mysterio just stares at KK.
Kid Kash:
Don't ignore me. I asked you what you think you're doin' interruptin' me. I was talkin'!
Rey Mysterio:
Y'know, Kid Kash, I get that, an' really, that's why I came out here. I mean, someone just had to shut you up.
Big pop from the crowd.
Rey Mysterio:
An' I figured, hey, why not me? From what I understand, you've kinda become a big deal here in the cruiserweight division.
Kid Kash:
You're damn right I'm a big deal. I'm the greatest cruiserweight of all-time!
Mysterio takes a moment to gather his thoughts.
Rey Mysterio:
This whole "greatest cruiserweight of all-time" thing you've got goin'? Y'know man, I'm not so sure on that one. Like I said, you're good. Don't get me wrong. But besides you bein' talented, there's somethin' else we both know. I mean, you touched on it earlier, you were big in ECW. Former Television Champ, if I remember right. But you seem to be forgetting …
was there first.
Pop from the crowd.
Rey Mysterio:
You wanna' talk about bein' a great cruiserweight. Kid Kash, I'm the one who revolutionised cruiserweight wrestling. When I came to ECW, I brought cruiserweight wrestling with me into mainstream America. An' while you followed my footsteps into ECW, I moved it onto a bigger stage. I made it big in WCW. My battles with guys like Dean Malenko, Chris Jericho, an' Eddie Guerrero …
"Eddie~! Eddie~! Eddie~!"
Rey Mysterio:
They were legendary. But I didn't stop there. No. I then came here, to the WWE, to Friday Night SmackDown!, and I took it up a notch, makin' the cruiserweight division here the best it's ever been. Sure, you've beaten talented guys like Jamie Noble. But I have too. But lemme' ask you this. What about Tajiri? What about Billy Kidman? What about Chavo … Guerrero? Have you beaten all o' them? 'Cause I have.
The crowd gives a big pop.
Rey Mysterio:
Kash, you've been a heck of a champion
. But I've been Cruiserweight Champion not once, not twice, but
eight times
Pop out of respect for Rey.
Rey Mysterio:
Look, Kash, it's like this. You may be a heck of a champion, but if you're gonna' say that you're the best ever, then you're gonna' have me not just challengin' for that title, but also the title hangin' from your shoulder.
Big pop from the crowd.
Kid Kash:
Is that s'posed to be some kinda challenge?
Rey Mysterio:
If you wanna call it that, then yeah. I'm challengin' you.
Kid Kash:
Well then in that case, I
Heat from the crowd.
Kid Kash:
Rey, I don't care who you are an' what you've done in the past, 'cause lately, there's only been one man in the cruiserweight division. I know that now you won your big match with a heavyweight, you think you're somethin' special, but while you've been tryin' to move away from the cruiserweight division, I've been the one carryin' it higher than it's ever been before. An' now … now ya' think you can just step right back in an' challenge 'The Notorious K.I.D" like you're somethin'? Rey, you're not somethin' … you're just like Juventud …
… but me, Kid Kash … I'm
Heat for the arrogance of Kash.
Kid Kash:
An' until you can prove you're
my time in the cruiserweight division … then I'm not gonna' give you it.
Rey Mysterio:
You want me to prove I'm worth your time? Fine.
We cut forward a couple of weeks to Saturday Night's Main Event, where Rey Mysterio, in his return to the cruiserweight division, is able to defeat his old rival Psicosis. Mysterio then defeats Jamie Noble on the SmackDown! that follows, gaining the attention of KK.
Kid Kash:
Next week, I want you to hold your little invitational thing one – more – time. If you impress me, I'll give you what ya want. I'll give you the chance to face me for this title at the grandest stage of 'em all, WrestleMania.
Cut forward to the next week, where we see Rey Mysterio waiting for his challenger to appear … only for Kid Kash to blindside him! Mysterio fights back, however, sending Kash scurrying from the ring to grab a microphone, with Rey having one of his own too.
Rey Mysterio:
So you wanted me to impress you, huh? Lemme ask you somethin' … did
impress you?
Pop from the crowd.
Rey Mysterio:
It's yes or no,
. I'm layin' down my final challenge. You and me at WrestleMania … do you accept … or are you not the king of the cruiserweight division like you claim to be? Are you … a
Big pop from the crowd as Kash has a fit at ringside, heading over to the timekeeper's area to yell "Get me a fuckin' a mic!", which the crew there do, allowing KK to now turn back to Rey.
Kid Kash:
A coward? You think 'The Notorious K.I.D''s a coward. Lemme tell ya somethin',
little man
Heat from the crowd.
Kid Kash:
I accepted your little "open challenge" that you laid out just then, so y'know what? I'm acceptin' this challenge too. Me an' you at WrestleMania 22!
BIG pop as Rey smiles.
Kid Kash:
But no. No. Don't you go an' get your hopes up, 'cause I'm tellin' you … no, I'm
you … at WrestleMania, I'm gonna prove why I am the '
of the Cruiserweights'. Ya get it? Got it … good.
From here we cut forward, with the action between the two being shown, including in their respective matches against Nunzio where they try to prove their own superiority. It all eventually comes to an end though with Kid Kash smashing the Cruiserweight Title into the skull of Mysterio, vefore laying him out with the Dead Level, allowing him to stand tall with the gold on the most recent SmackDown!.
Back to ringside to see Tony Chimel standing in the centre of the ring, the bell ringing in the background.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP OF THE WOORRRRLLLDDD!
The crowd absolutely explodes as the music hits, leading to the arrival of REY MYSTERIO, who leaps up with pyro flying from under him. Dressed in some special head gear as part of his WrestleMania tradition, Mysterio heads to either side of the stage to set off some additional pyro, before making his way down the ramp.
Tony Chimel:
Introducing first, the CHALLENGER, from SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, weighing 175 lbs, RREEEYYYYYY MMMMYYYSTTTEERIO!
Another cheer goes up as Mysterio walks down the ramp, recognising all of his fans at ringside along the way.
Michael Cole:
It was just over a month ago that Rey Mysterio announced that he was returning to the cruiserweight division, and now tonight, this legend of the cruiserweight division, this former six time Cruiserweight Champion gets to prove his credentials against the current Cruiserweight Champion, and the man who boasts he is the greatest cruiserweight of all-time, Kid Kash.
Mysterio's a legend of the division, no doubt about that, but this is a big risk for him tonight to come back, because he might yet find out he's not up to it. Personally I'm a fan of Rey, and I know you can never count him out, but tonight's gonna be tough.
Mysterio makes his way down the remainder of the ramp, then climbs up into the ring to get the crowd fired up, running around it in a circle. Rey-Rey then heads up to the second rope to recognise the fans, before waiting.
The crowd gives some great heat now as the CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION, KID KASH swaggers his way out onto the stage, full of confidence. KK has no problem letting the crowd know that he's champ, bellowing it out to them from the top of the ramp.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, from JOHNSON CITY, TENNESSEE, weighing 205 lbs, he is the CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION OF THE WOOORRRLLLLDDD, KID KASH!
'Double K' continues to show off the fact that he's champion, mouthing off to everyone who will listen to him on the way down the ramp. The fans give it right back too, showing no appreciation for their Cruiserweight Champion.
Michael Cole:
You said it, Tazz. For the past five months now, this man Kid Kash has been, as he's put it, 'the man' in the cruiserweight division. He's beaten every cruiserweight there is to beat with the exception of the man he's facing tonight, and you have to feel like if he wins, he has to go down as one of the greats of all-time in the cruiserweight division.
Forget one of the greats; Kid Kash will go down as
great. He's absolutely dominated the cruiserweight division ever since debuting here in a way no one has, which is why I agree with him when he says he is the greatest Cruiserweight Champion of all-time. Tonight is his chance to prove it.
KK makes his way down the rest of the ramp and climbs up into the ring, continuing to mouth off, now not just to the crowd, but also to Rey Mysterio. Mysterio, however, remains calm, knowing he can't lose focus.
Cruiserweight Championship; Singles Match:
Rey Mysterio
Kid Kash ©
The two men stand in opposing corners, stretching out and preparing themselves for the match. Wanting to get things going at a fast pace, Mysterio now heads out of the corner and begins to circle the ring, prompting Kid Kash to do the same. The challenger is the first to make an offensive move, scrambling across the ring to try to pick a leg, only for KK to jump out of the way and continue to circle. After circling for a moment later, Kash is the one to make the move this time, also looking to pick the leg, with Mysterio also being able to nip out of the way. Both men again circle for a moment longer, before deciding to come forward together and meet for the first time in the match with a lockup. Kid Kash, obviously the larger of the two men, is instantly able to use his size advantage to force Mysterio back, pushing him into the corner. That's where it stops for Kash though, as referee Charles Robinson is quickly in, making sure that there is a clean break.
Kash backs away, a cocky smirk on his face, having gotten the better of the first exchange. Mysterio isn't too fussed though, coming out of the corner and circling around for a moment, before coming forward again. Thinking he's going to overpower Mysterio once again, Kash is quick to try to go for a lockup, but this time Mysterio has it covered, ducking under the arms of Kid Kash to smoothly go behind him and grab a waistlock. Caught by surprise, KK flails a little at first, though he soon gets his head back in the game, reaching his leg around behind Rey to block an attempt at an amateur wrestling takedown. Quick as a flash, Kash then executes a perfect standing switch, going behind Mysterio so he can take his challenger down with an amateur wrestling takedown of his own.
Kash maintains his grip on the mat, holding onto the waistlock to ride Rey, before seamlessly floating over into a front face lock. The Cruiserweight Champion then looks to show off his expertise, floating over Mysterio in a waistlock once again, before transitioning back into a front face lock. Feeling he hasn't yet illustrated his dominance enough, Kid Kash then starts to pull back … insultingly slapping the head of Mysterio as he does so! The heat from the crowd is pretty great as Kid Kash climbs back to his feet, though it only gets better when Mysterio looks up and Kid Kash takes a bow, telling the fans that that's how it's done. Rather than getting wound up, Mysterio knows it's best top keep calm in a title match, so that's what he does as he climbs back to his feet and begins to circle again. His confidence at a high, Kid Kash follows Mysterio's lead, circling around too before the two of them come forward for a lockup.
Mysterio once again is quick to duck under the arms of Kid Kash, grabbing a waistlock, although just as quick is Kash's reversal, performing the standing switch to get us back in the same position we were in a moment ago. However, this time when Kid Kash goes for the takedown, Mysterio is able to fight it, putting his leg behind Kash's so he can't lift him. The challenger for the Cruiserweight Title then takes the arm of 'The Notorious K.I.D' and spins out of the waistlock, wrenching the arm overhead. Rey-Rey then keeps his control over the Cruiserweight Champion going, pulling him in to a side headlock. 'The Moneyman' flails his arms about a bit, looking for a way out of the hold, before using his superior size to bring Rey across and press against the ropes, looking to use the momentum coming off to push Rey away … but Rey drops to a knee, stopping all momentum right there!
Still stuck in the headlock, Kash gets more and more frustrated, once again going to push Rey away with the use of the ropes, only for Rey to once again drop to a knee. The challenger really cranks the hold, trying to put as much pressure on the neck of Kash as possible, prompting Kash to look to manhandle Rey away, going for a back suplex … but Rey transitions his weight perfectly, landing back on his feet where he started, the side headlock still on. Kash snarls loudly, growing more and more agitated by the second, before once again going for a back suplex … but Mysterio counters in midair, scoring with a beautiful snapmare on Kid Kash … before absolutely CRACKING a kick off his back! The pain shoots through Kid Kash's back, sending him scurrying forward, looking to escape … when he turns to see Rey Mysterio taking a bow to a good pop from the crowd.
This tips the Cruiserweight Champion over the edge, as he charges forward, looking to attack Rey … only to run straight into an arm drag! The hot-headed Kash lets his anger get the best of him a second time, charging at Mysterio again, only to receive a second arm drag, and a subsequent third. This time, however, Mysterio keeps his hold on the arm, twisting on the wrist of the Cruiserweight Champion. Not in the most comfortable position in the world, 'The Notorious K.I.D' struggles a bit, climbing back to his feet, before rolling through to alleviate the pressure on his wrist, then twist Rey's arm overhead, reversing the situation. Mysterio doesn't struggle for long, quickly rolling through and reversing the pressure, only for Kid Kash to do the same instantly! The crowd looks on in awe at the fast paced action as Mysterio now heads over to the ropes, jumping up top … before moonsaulting back and taking Kid Kash over with an arm drag in the process!
The crowd applauds the effort of the little man, although Kid Kash is NOT impressed, turning to charge at Mysterio … but Mysterio sidesteps him, pitching him through the ropes and out to the floor! Kash shows his agility this time though, landing on his feet … only for Mysterio to quickly come at him with a baseball slide, having bounced off the opposite ropes … but Kash dodges! Kid Kash now slides into the ring and runs off the opposite ropes, looking for a baseball slide to the outside on Mysterio … only for Mysterio to dodge and slide into the ring! Kid Kash turns around … and gets a double boot SLAMMED right into his face, as Mysterio pulls himself through the ropes for an assisted dropkick. Kash goes down to his hands and knees, holding his jaw in pain, before getting up and turning … TO SEE REY MYSTERIO FLY FROM THE APRON, LAND ON HIS SHOULDERS … AND TAKE HIM DOWN WITH AN AMAZING FLYING HURRICANRANA ON THE OUTSIDE!
The crowd goes absolutely nuts for that spectacular move from Rey Mysterio, who is quick to get back up and recognise the respect of the fans, before rolling Kid Kash into the ring and following him to make the cover:
Kid Kash pushes Mysterio off of him!
Looking for some space, Kid Kash quickly heads away from Mysterio to the corner, although Mysterio is right on him, striking with some right hands right to the face. Mysterio continues to pepper Kash with the right hands, dominating the contest … until a desperate Cruiserweight Champion suddenly stops his momentum by poking him in the eye! The crowd boos the dirty tactics of Kash, who has realised he's doing to have to step it up a notch to get a foot hold on things, prompting him to kick Mysterio in the midsection … then grab Mysterio by the tights … AND JUST HURL HIM LIKE A MISSILE ALONG THE MAT, UNDER THE BOTTOM ROPE AND ONTO THE FLOOR … BUT MYSTERIO IS ABLE TO ROLL THROUGH AND GET BACK TO HIS FEET ON THE RAMP!
Kid Kash can't believe it, charging at the ropes … AND DIVING OVER WITH A PLANCHA ONTO REY AS HE COMES BACK TO THE RING … NO! REY SIDESTEPS IT, AND KID KASH SPLATS ON THE COLD, HARD CONCRETE FLOOR! The crowd cheers as Mysterio quickly heads up to the apron again, waiting as Kid Kash starts to pick himself back up … before charging … BUT KID KASH SUDDENLY SPRINGS TO LIFE AND DIVES AT MYSTERIO'S LEG, TAKING IT OUT FROM UNDER HIM … BAM! THE BACK OF MYSTERIO'S HEAD STRIKES THE RING APRON! Like Mysterio before, Kash is quick to push his opponent back into the ring, before scurrying in himself to hook the leg:
Mysterio gets his shoulders up off the mat!
Despite not picking up the win there, 'Double K' isn't too fussed, knowing he has to go back to work on Rey-Rey. That's exactly what he does too, forcing him back into the corner to RATTLE him with some right hand shots right to the head. Referee Charles Robinson finally interjects at the count of four, forcing Kid Kash back, though 'The Notorious K.I.D' is soon back, looking for an Irish whip that Mysterio is able to reverse, sending Kid Kash into the opposite corner. Keen to get back in the match, Mysterio charges across the ring at Kash … ONLY FOR KASH TO GRAB HIM BY THE LEGS AND ELEVATE HIM UP … SLAMMING HIS HEAD OFF THE RINGPOST! The crowd shudders with the impact, the sound of head banging against steel ringing through the Allstate Arena as Mysterio reels back … and Kash rolls him up! Kash gets Rey down:
Mysterio fights out of the pinning predicament!
Kidn Kash is quickly back to his feet, with Rey a little more sluggish in getting to his hands and knees … BANG! KK charges across and just plain BOOTS Mysterio in the side of the head, sending him tumbling over towards the ropes! Kash is quick to follow up his good work, jumping on to hook the leg of Mysterio again:
Mysterio gets his shoulder up off the mat!
Despite kicking out, Rey is looking worse for wear, not moving after the kickout, allowing Kid Kash to wipe his boot along the head of Rey. Feeling confident, Kash now looks down at Rey and measures him, before jumping up, then DRIVING his knee down across the head of Rey with a knee drop! Kash isn't finished there though, climbing up to do it a second time, before climbing up to the second rope and jumping up from there for an extremely elevated knee drop, SMASHING his knee down across Rey's head at high velocity! With Mysterio looking extremely groggy, KK looks to take advantage with yet another cover, hooking the leg:
No! Mysterio shoots his shoulder up off the mat once again!
Kid Kash actually looks a little frustrated by the kickout this time, questioning referee Charles Robinson, before going back to business. Turning back to Mysterio, Kash looks to grab his rising foe by the mask … when Mysterio suddenly fires a right hand into the midsection of Kash! The champion is startled, jumping up in pain … only to get another right hand shot that forces him back! Mysterio now gets to his feet and is able to change things up, BLASTING Kash in the hamstrings now with some STIFF kicks, scoring on him time and time again, before eventually running off to the ropes … and rebounding right into a kick to the midsection! Kash then runs off to the ropes himself … and comes back to score with a swinging neckbreaker! The Cruiserweight Champion jumps on the cover:
Kid Kash can't believe it, looking up at the referee, before slapping the mat in frustration and heading across to Mysterio to lock in a dragon sleeper. Mysterio immediately begins to struggle, flailing his arms about in an attempt to shake free. Kash has the hold synched in tight though, meaning Mysterio isn't going to be able to simply wriggle out. Leaning right back in the hold, Kash does all he can to make it as uncomfortable as possible on Rey, while shouting at him to give it up. Rey refuses though, pumping his fist in the air to get the crowd behind him. Slowly but surely, Mysterio is then able to work back to his feet, much to the delight of the crowd who cheer him on as he regains his vertical base, then jumps up … flipping over to land behind Kash! Mysterio then backs into the ropes, before ducking a Kid Kash clothesline on the rebound and jumping up to the second rope … SPRINGBOARD CROSSBODY BLOCK CONNECTS! Mysterio hooks the leg:
No! Kid Kash gets his shoulder up off the mat!
Both men are quickly back up again, with Mysterio looking for a headscissors takedown … no! Kid Kash blocks it, but Rey still lands on his feet … ONLY TO BE CAUGHT BACK IN THE DRAGON SLEEPER! Kid Kash gets the dragon sleeper locked in … AND HE TAKES MYSTERIO DOWN TO THE MAT WITH IT! The crowd is in shock as 'Double K' roars with intensity, cranking right back on the hold as far as he can. Mysterio fights at first, flailing his arms about, but it's soon clear that he's fading and fast. The Cruiserweight Champion is all over it too, the taste of victory in his mouth as he demands that referee Charles Robinson check on Rey. Robinson does just that, raising Mysterio's hand a first time … it goes down once! Robinson raises it up a second time … MYSTERIO'S HAND GOES DOWN AGAIN! JUST ONCE MORE! The crowd gasps in anticipation as Robinson lifts it a third and final time …
The crowd goes nuts as Mysterio clenches his fist and begins to pump it, getting the crowd firmly behind him as he gets up … then snapmares his way free … SENDING KID KASH FLYING ONTO THE SECOND ROPE! The crowd goes nuts as Mysterio runs off to the opposite ropes … THEN COMES BACK INTO A KID KASH CLOTHESLINE … NO! Mysterio ducks … then comes back and takes 'Double K' down with a headscissors takedown! A disorientated Kash stumbles back up to see a boot flying towards his midsection, prompting him to catch it … ONLY FOR MYSTERIO TO BOOT HIM RIGHT IN THE BACK OF THE HEAD WITH AN ENZUIGURI! Kid Kash stumbles away to the corner, rocked by the move, which allows Mysterio to charge in and jump up to the second rope to tee off with some punches to the skull. ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE! SIX! SEVEN! EIGHT! NINE! TEN!
Mysterio gets all of them, then drops down and runs off to the ropes as a dizzy Kash stumbles from the corner … RIGHT INTO A SPRINGBOARD MOONSAULT BODYBLOCK! Mysterio hits it perfectly, hooking the leg:
Mysterio can't believe it, looking at the referee in shock, before getting back up … AND CALLING FOR THE END! Mysterio signals for the crowd to get excited as KK gets up … AND MYSTERIO DROPKICKS HIM IN THE BACK … SENDING HIM DOWN ACROSS THE SECOND ROPE! The crowd goes nuts as Mysterio runs off to the opposite ropes, then comes back … 619 … NO! KID KASH DUCKS OUT OF THE WAY! A dizzy Mysterio runs at him in the centre of the ring … boot to the midsection … BEFORE KASH GETS MYSTERIO UP … AND NAILS THE BANKRUPTCY! KASH GETS IT! Mysterio is surely out of it … AS KASH HOISTS HIM BACK UP … GETS HIM IN A DOUBLE UNDERHOOK … THEN LIFTS HIM UP … AND DROPS HIM ON HIS HEAD WITH THE MONEY MAKER! KASH SPIKES REY RIGHT ON TOP OF HIS HEAD! The Cruiserweight Champion hooks the leg:
Kid Kash simply CANNOT believe it, demanding the referee tell him that was a three count. The referee can't do that though, leaving Kash to smash the mat in frustration. With Mysterio still down, 'Double K' climbs up to his feet, and, after considering his next move, sees Mysterio perfectly in the middle of the ring … prompting him to run to the corner … then go up to the second rope … MOONSAULT … NO! MYSTERIO GETS HIS KNEES UP, AND KID KASH COMES CRASHING DOWN ACROSS THEM! A groggy Mysterio sluggishly gets to his feet and sees Kid Kash doubled over in the middle of the ring, prompting him to run off to the ropes, then come back with a sunset flip … WHERE HE ROLLS ALL OF THE WAY THROUGH … THEN KICKS KID KASH'S HEAD OFF … BUT KK DUCKS IT AT THE LAST MOMENT, THEN ROLLS MYSTERIO UP:
Both men rush back to their feet … AND KASH KICKS REY IN THE MIDSECTION, THEN SETS HIM UP FOR THE DEAD LEVEL! KASH GETS REY UP … BUT MYSTERIO SLIPS THROUGH AND LANDS BEHIND HIM! Rey then backs off into the ropes and comes back at Kash to be caught in a wheelbarrow … MYSTERIO NAILS THE WHEELBARROW BULLDOG! MYSTERIO DROPS KASH DOWN ON HIS FACE … SENDING HIM OVER THE SECOND ROPE, HOLDING HIS FACE! The crowd goes absolutely wild as Mysterio again calls for it, then hits the opposite ropes and comes back … 619 … CONNECTS! REY LANDS IT! REY KICKS KID KASH RIGHT IN THE FACE, SENDING HIM BACK TO THE CENTRE OF THE RING! An extremely groggy Kid Kash regains his feet … AND MYSTERIO SPRINGBOARDS UP, LOOKING FOR A SEATED SENTON … NO! KASH CATCHES HIM … THEN SPIKES HIM RIGHT ON THE BACK OF HIS NECK WITH A POWERBOMB! Kash gets Mysterio in the bundle for a pin:
The crowd goes absolutely nuts as Kash contorts Mysterio's spine, demanding that the smaller man quit. He's caught right in the middle of the ring too, with the knee that KK is digging into Rey's neck making it even harder for Rey-Rey to get to the ropes. Referee Charles Robinson is all over it, asking Mysterio if he wants to quit, although at this stage Mysterio refuses. Bit by bit, he begins to will himself to the ropes, aided by the support of the crowd who cheer him on … WHEN SUDDENLY HE RAISES HIS HAND! Will Mysterio tap? He's still nowhere near the ropes, hand in the air …
… MYSTERIO RESISTS, HOLDING ONTO HIS MASK TO PERHAPS DISTRACT HIMSELF! 'Double K' keeps cranking on the hold though, doing Mysterio no favours as he tries, with all of his might, to pull himself to the ropes, getting closer and closer … WHEN HE AGAIN RAISES HIS HAND …
The crowd goes wild for Rey as he gets the break he was after, although it doesn't come immediately as 'The Notorious K.I.D' keeps the hold locked in until the count of four. With the hold now broken, the Cruiserweight Champion paces around the ring, unsure of what to do next, before a smile suddenly comes over his face as he looks at the corner. Perhaps thinking of what he did to Juventud at No Way Out, Kash lifts Mysterio up … THEN LIFTS HIM UP IN A SUPLEX POSITION … BEFORE RUNNING WITH HIM AT THE CORNER, LOOKING TO SLAM HIM TEMPLE FIRST INTO THE TOP TURNBUCKLE … BUT MYSTERIO IS ABLE TO SOMEHOW SHIFT HIS WEIGHT AND LAND ON THE SECOND ROPE IN THE CORNER! Mysterio then kicks Kash square in the jaw, sending him away … before climbing up to the top rope … AND COMING OFF TO LAND ON KASH'S SHOULDERS … WEST COAST POP! Mysterio has the leg hooked:
Winner (and NEW Cruiserweight Champion): Rey Mysterio via pinfall @ 17:30
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, and the NNNNEEEWWWWW CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION OF THE WORLD, RRREEEYYYYY MYYYSSSSTTTEEERRRRIIIOOOOO!
The crowd gives a tremendous pop as Rey Mysterio pops off the cover and springs to his feet, a look of joy on his face. While Kid Kash rolls away in shock, Mysterio is left to receive the Cruiserweight Title from the crowd and show it off to the crowd, showing his appreciation for them.
Michael Cole:
Rey Mysterio has done it! Rey Mysterio has made a successful return to the cruiserweight division, beating the previous undefeatble Kid Kash here at WrestleMania 22! Rey Mysterio is back on top of the cruiserweight division for a record seventh time!
And what a match that was. If you wanna see a match that shows you the best of cruiserweight wrestling, then that was it. Well done to both Rey Mysterio and Kid Kash, a tremendous effort, but Mysterio is the guy who can stand tall now and call himself the greatest cruiserweight of all-time.
Michael Cole:
And look at what this one means to Rey. It means the absolute world, and you know he appreciates the support the crowd gives him. Well done, Rey!
Mysterio continues to show off the Cruiserweight Title, now climbing from the ring …
… As we cut backstage to see TRIPLE H in his locker-room, dressed to compete as he SMASHES his fists into a punching bag. If there was ever an indication of what Triple H intends to bring tonight, then this is it.
Off elsewhere, we're now in the interview area where Todd Grisham is standing by.
Todd Grisham:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, she is the WWE Women's Champion, Trish Stratus!
Some great heat as the WOMEN'S CHAMPION, TRISH STRATUS steps into view.
Todd Grisham:
Trish, up next you'll be facing a woman, who, over the past six or so months, you've had a turbulent relationship with to say the least in Mickie James. Do you have any last words before this match?
A smile appears on Trish's face as she nods.
Trish Stratus:
Some last words? Yeah, I've got some last words … for Mickie James that is.
Trish smiles again.
Trish Stratus:
Mickie, I hope you've enjoyed this weekend, because after I embarrass you tonight … it'll be the
weekend you ever spend here. I'll see you out there.
Trish once again smiles, leaving Grisham looking stunned …
… As we cut back to ringside to see our RAW announce team.
Joey Styles:
Some very strong words from Trish Stratus, but this feud, at least for Mickie James, is all about being strong. It's one of the most personal matches we've ever seen in the women's division, and it is for the Women's Title. Trish Stratus defends against Mickie James … tonight.
Our video package begins as we see Trish Stratus and Ashley Massaro walking backstage on RAW in October last year, when out of nowhere bounces Mickie James.
Mickie James:
Hey … Trish … Trish Stratus? Hi! I'm Mickie James … I'm RAW's newest diva and I'm like … your biggest fan!
Cutting forward to a RAW a few weeks later, with Mickie and Trish in the same locker-room.
Mickie James:
Do you … do you think we could be friends, Trish?
Trish Stratus:
Uh … sure Mickie. I don't see why not.
We cut forward to future episodes of RAW to see Mickie James following Trish around, and even dressing as her on the Halloween edition of RAW.
Mickie James:
I'm like … your biggest fan!
Mickie approaching Trish in her locker-room.
Mickie James:
Hey Trish!
Mickie approaching Trish when she's warming up backstage.
Mickie James:
Hey Trish!
Mickie approaching Trish when she's walking alone backstage.
Mickie James:
Hey Trish!
Mickie interrupting Trish talking to Ashley.
Mickie James:
Hey Trish!
We now cut forward to the RAW before Christmas, with Trish and Mickie standing under a mistletoe … when Mickie suddenly plants a big one on Trish!
Cutting forward, we see the two in Trish's locker-room.
Trish Stratus:
Mickie, I just … I just think we need some time apart … okay?
Mickie James:
That's … that's okay.
Trish and Ashley talking in the locker-room.
Ashley Massaro:
So you finally got rid of Mickie, huh?
Trish Stratus:
Oh leave her. She's a good person. We just need some time apart.
Ashley Massaro:
Whatever you say.
Mickie is shown listening in …
… Before we cut forward to later in the show, when Mickie James assaults Ashley, despite being on her team.
We then cut forward to Mickie and Trish backstage.
Mickie James:
I guess we're best friends now, hey Trish?
From there we see Mickie accidentally costing Trish a tag team match …
… Mickie almost costing Trish the Women's Title at the Royal Rumble …
… Mickie accidentally hitting Trish after a match, not knowing it was her …
… And a couple of boxes even falling on Trish after Mickie knocks them …
… Befoire we finally see Mickie looking on from nearby as Trish's friend from outside wrestling is covered in blood, Mickie also having blood on her hands.
Cutting forward from all of that, we're now at Saturday Night's Main Event.
Mickie James:
O – okay. Trish …
The crowd gives a pop as Mickie nervously tells herself "It's okay. It's okay", looking down at the mat, clearly a nervous wreck tonight.
Mickie James:
Trish … Trish Stratus …
Another pause as Mickie stumbles over her words.
Mickie James:
Trish, I'm not … I'm not sure if you're in the arena tonight. I mean, I tried looking for you … I tried … I tried asking people about you, but whenever I asked them about you, they … they didn't want to answer me for some reason. And you … you haven't been answering me either.
Again, Mickie waits, looking at the ramp to absolutely no response.
Mickie James:
Trish … I'm begging you. Please, PLEASE come out here so we can …
The crowd pops as out from the back marches the Women's Champion, Trish Stratus. Trish doesn't go through her usual routine of playing it up to the crowd, instead swiftly making her way down to the ring to receive a mic, her face scrunched up.
Trish Stratus:
You had something you wanted to say to me?
Mickie pauses, obviously nervous.
Mickie James:
Trish, do you remember a few months ago when I told you that … accidents …
Trish Stratus:
Happen? Yeah, mhm, I do.
Mickie James:
You know who I'm talking about …
Trish's expression changes, seemingly seething over what happened a few weeks ago.
Mickie James:
You're not listening to the people who
saying I did it … are you Trish? Because those people Trish, they don't know what they're talking about. They don't know me. But you do. You know me, and you know I wouldn't do anything like that.
Mickie looks Trish in the eyes, mouthing the words "You know".
Trish Stratus:
Y'know Mickie, I
I knew you. I
I understood you. But these past few months … y'know Mickie, I'm not so sure anymore. I mean … maybe you
attack Rebecca. You remember what happened with Ashley, don't you? Because I do.
Mickie James:
Okay! Okay Trish, I remember Ashley. I remember what happened with her, but trust me, this is different, this is …
Trish Stratus:
How Mickie? How is this different?
Mickie is so shocked she takes a step back away from Trish, her face illustrating her fear.
Trish Stratus:
Go on, Mickie, tell me. Because to me it looks like every time you find out someone's closer to me, every time you find that I have another friend, you attack them. You ran Ashley out of town, and now, now you've gone and done the same thing to my other best friend Rebecca. Do you know how often I get to see her, Mickie? Huh? It's not often, and when I
finally get to see her, she leaves on a stretcher after
walked up to her. Now tell me Mickie, don't you think that seems a little suspicious?
Trish crosses her arms, her expression not softening, remaining cold and impatient.
Mickie James:
Okay, I did
attack Rebecca. I want you to know that. Okay? But that's not just all. It was actually the opposite. Y'see, the reason I was approaching her was because … I wanted her help.
Trish raises an eyebrow.
Trish Stratus:
Her help?
Mickie James:
Yes … her help.
Trish Stratus:
And tell me Mickie,
would you want her help?
Mickie takes her time, not looking at all comfortable.
Mickie James:
I wanted her help because I wanted to be like her. I wanted us to be like you and her.
Trish looks confused, almost instsantly dismissing the notion.
Trish Stratus:
What are you talking about?
Mickie James:
Trish, I saw the way you talked to her, and I saw the friendship that the two of you have. I saw the same thing as when I saw when I used to see you talk to Ashley. And then I see how you talk to me, and Trish, I'm not stupid. I know it's not the same.
Mickie again gives an ever so slight pause.
Mickie James:
You're my hero, Trish. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be standing in the same ring as my hero. I dreamt of it, but I didn't believe it could come true. Standing next to you … it was a dream come true. Being your friend was more than anything I had ever dreamt. It was the greatest feeling in the world.
Trish Stratus:
Happen? Uh huh, I think I've got that by now, Mickie. You honestly expect me to believe this? That all of this was just some kind of freak accident? You
expect me to believe this? Mickie … you're full of crap.
BAM! The crowd reacts with shock at that comment, some event booing Stratus as Mickie continues to sob.
Trish Stratus:
Well I've got some news for ya, Mickie. Your dad didn't want you, and I don't want you either.
The breakdown of Mickie continues as the crowd starts to slowly boo the words of Stratus.
Trish Stratus:
So y'know what? You want your title shot? That's fine with me, because you've got it.
Mixed reaction for this.
Trish Stratus:
And Mickie, I promise you, that what I do to you at WrestleMania will be
no … accident.
More heat from the crowd, who are starting to turn on Trish.
Trish Stratus:
How about I give you a preview of that?
Mickie isn't even looking at this point, hiding her face in her arms … SMACK! TRISH SMASHES THE MICROPHONE RIGHT OFF HER FOREHEAD! The crowd boos as Trish gets down on her knees, over the now curled up Mickie … AND SHE JUST STARTS BLASTING MICKIE WITH SOME MASSIVE RIGHT HANDS BLOWS! The crowd can't believe it as Trish strikes Mickie again and again and again, with no one from the back coming to assist the friendless James.
The crowd continues to boo as Trish finally stands, the anger clear as she lifts her Women's Title up and waits for Mickie to stand, slowly stalking her as she struggles back up … AND TRISH BLASTS HER RIGHT INTO THE FACE WITH THE GOLD! The crowd continues to boo as Stratus looks down at her former friend, breathing heavily, before dropping to her knees and lifting Mickie's head, which is now
profusely and holding the title belt by her, shouting "THIS … WAS NO ACCIDENT! YOU ARE NEVER GETTING THIS! NEVER!"
We now cut ahead to RAW two weeks later to see Trish Stratus and Ashley in the ring.
Ashley Massaro:
I came back for Mickie, 'cause Trish, she's not the one who's crazy … you are.
We then see Trish attacking Ashley, only for Mickie James to run in and make the save, bringing us up to date.
Back to ringside, where Lilian Garcia stands in the ring, the bell sounding in the background.
Lilian Garcia:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WWE WOMEN'S CHAAAMMMMPIONSHIP!
A very good pop emanates from the Allstate Arena as the challenger MICKIE JAMES steps out onto the stage, looking as focused as ever. With ASHLEY MASSARO not far behind her, Mickie James begins to walk down the ramp.
Lilian Garcia:
Introducing first, THE CHALLENGER, from RRRRIIICHMOND, VIRGINIA, MMMMIIIICKIE JJAAAAAMES!
Another good pop as Mickie walks down the ramp intensely, not really acknowledging the crowd tonight.
Joey Styles:
Mickie James comes into tonight with a lot on her mind. On one hand, tonight Mickie James will be seeking to hurt Trish Stratus, but also tonight she must focus on winning the Women's Title, which would perhaps hurt Mickie more than any physical pain could. 'King', do you think it's possible for Mickie to focus on both here tonight?
Jerry Lawler:
It is possible, but it means that Mickie is going to have to take advantages of chance to actually beat Trish instead of just beating her up. After seeing the two this past Monday on RAW, I think Mickie can do it.
Jonathan Coachman:
After seein' her on RAW? She lost, 'King'! She may not have been the one to get pinned, but Trish did get the win, showin' she's on her way to another win here at WrestleMania tonight.
Mickie makes her way down the rest of the ramp, then climbs up into the ring, waiting for her opponent.
The crowd gives some good heat as the WOMEN'S CHAMPION, TRISH STRATUS makes her way out onto the stage. Rather posing, Stratus turns her nose up at the fans, ignoring them as she walks down the ramp.
Lilian Garcia:
Her opponent, from TORONNNNTO, ONTARIO, CANADA, she is the WWE WOOOMMMEN'S CHAMPION, TRRRIIISSSHHHH STRATTTUUUSSS!
More heat as Stratus walks down the ramp, ignoring the fans.
Joey Styles:
What about Trish Stratus tonight though, 'King'? She's been Women's Champion for over a year now, but tonight she's not just dealing with someone who wants to beat her, she's dealing with someone who wants to hurt her badly, and that's not something she's had yet.
Jerry Lawler:
It's going to test her, no doubt, and if Trish can come out on the side as Women's Champion, then she'll prove that she deserves the Women's Title.
Jonathan Coachman:
Trish has already proven that since January of last year. Tonight's just another night for Trish, and Mickie James is just another challenger. Trust me, tonight Trish is walkin' out as Women's Champion.
Trish makes her way down the rest of the ramp, then climbs up into the ring, ready to go.
Women's Championship; Singles Match:
Mickie James
Trish Stratus ©
The "MI – CKIE! MI – CKIE! MI – CKIE!" chants sound through the Allstate Arena as the two women stand in opposite corners to one another. Mickie squats down, her determination written all over her face, while the perhaps overconfident Women's Champion comes forward and starts to talk a little trash. Mickie is unresponsive at first, standing back as Trish continues to run her mouth, telling her she doesn't belong at the top of the women's division. Finally Trish utters the words "Even your mother would be ashamed of you" … AND MICKIE SPRINGS TO LIFE, TAKING TRISH DOWN WITH A DOUBLE LEG! The crowd erupts as Mickie is finally tipped over the edge, taking out all of her anger, frustration and confusion on Stratus to SMACK her in the face time and time again with wild right hands blows. Caught off guard, Stratus can do nothing at first but be pummelled by the enraged challenger until she finally kicks free and rolls from the ring.
The outside isn't safe for Trish either though as James launches herself out after her, chasing Trish around ringside. Running for her life, Stratus finally realises that she's going to have to get back inside the ring when she's about to meet Ashley, before diving in desperation onto Mickie to hammer away on her with forearms. The crowd boos as a frantic Trish does all she can to keep the Richmond native down, throwing forearms, kicks, stomps and dropping some knees to try to beat the adrenaline out of her. Mickie does all she can to fight through it, climbing back to her feet despite the constant physical pressure from Trish with some assistance from the ropes. Realising what she's doing isn't quite working as planned, the Women's Champion sends her challenger off with an Irish whip, then looks for a clothesline on the rebound, only for Mickie to duck it. Trish turns around surprised … and Mickie bounces off the opposite ropes to take Trish down with a jumping clothesline!
Mickie continues to make Trish pay for giving her space, DRIVING her back into the corner before BURYING her shoulder into the midsection of Trish numerous times, driving the air from her lungs. Mickie is absolutely unrelenting, her rage drowning out the sound of referee Mickey Henson's count, causing Henson to physically get between Mickie and Stratus in order to separate the two. Not at all deterred by Henson's threats, Mickie just pushes right past Henson to get back at Stratus … moving right into a boot to the midsection. Mickie doubles over in pain, the oxygen driven from her by the Women's Champion. Stratus pulls herself back together, shocked by the onslaught she's suffered to start this match, before then pulling Mickie into the corner.
A determined look on her face, Stratus is doing no more trash talking right now as she SLAPS the chest of Mickie, the sound of which reverberates throughout the arena. Trish isn't done there, laying into Mickie with many more knife edge chops … until Mickie suddenly turns it around, HURLING Stratus back into the corner so she can UNLOAD on her with a barrage of forearm shots! The crowd count at first, although it's not long before they can't keep up as they simply resort to cheering Mickie on, showing their support in her attempts to cave Stratus' face in. Henson once again tries to get involved, but there's no stopping Mickie James as she just continues to lambast Stratus until the Women's Champion FINALLY falls to a seated position.
Mickie turns to the crowd and roars with intensity, a lifetime of frustration erupting at WrestleMania for all to see. The challenger for the title now turns back to Stratus and goes to lift her up from her seated position … only for Trish to spring to life, grabbing Mickie by the skirt and pulling her in … SLAMMING HER PRETTY FACE SMACK OFF THE SECOND TURNBUCKLE! Trish uses her experience edge to her advantage, leaving an overenthusiastic Mickie James in an awfully groggy state, her head bouncing off the turnbuckle causing a whiplash effect. This allows Trish some time to recover, rolling away from Mickie to tend to her wounds, feeling at her face to make sure there's no significant blood or bumps. Unfortunately for Trish, she does seem to find a bump, clutching at the same spot for a few moments, before turning to a crawling Mickie in a fit of rage, then charging across to DRILL her in the jaw with a dropkick! An angered Trish makes the first cover of the match:
Mickie James gets her shoulder up!
Despite the somewhat early kickout, Trish is straight back to business, seemingly ready for the kickout as she transitions into a mount, then gains a measure of revenge, absolutely DRILLING Mickie James with some hard right hands! Perhaps seeking to one up the bump on her face, Trish hits Mickie over and over and over again, unrelenting in her attack until, like with Mickie before, she is finally pulled off her foe by referee Mickey Henson. Unhappy with the way she's been treated, Trish takes a moment to mouth off to Henson, giving Mickie time to roll away before we get a close-up on her face … to see she's
from the forehead! The crowd sees it on the titantron too, the rarity of a diva bleeding in the WWE causing the crowd to collectively shudder as they see the image. The reaction Mickie gets from Trish when she rolls over is much different though, as a twisted smile instead crosses the face of the Canadian.
Like a shark, Trish takes the first sight of blood as a sign to attack, instantaneously charging to jump back into the mount position and once again beat the holy hell through Mickie, absolutely BLASTING her with some scintillating wild rights. Aiming her blows for the wound of James, an entranced Trish opens Mickie up further, causing even more blood to flow from her opponent's forehead. Seemingly content with the damage she's done, Trish's eyes move from the forehead of James to her hands, which we see are now covered in blood. A sick smile crossing her face, it now seems to dawn on Trish what she's done – she literally has the blood of Mickie James on her hands, and she LOVES every second of it.
With Mickie beginning to struggle, Trish now gets back to her feet, gleefully looking on as Mickie starts to roll around on the mat … BAM! Boot right to the wounded forehead from Stratus! Trish swiftly jumps on the cover, grinding her forearm into the forehead of James:
Mickie kicks out of the pinning predicament!
Trish rolls off the cover, the sick smile still on her face as she grabs a rising Mickie by the hair and drags her to the corner, SLAMMING her forehead down into the corner. Catching sight of Ashley Massaro at ringside, Trish pushes Mickie back into the corner and just plain GRINDS her forearm into the forehead of Mickie, shoving it right in as she yells at Ashley "Look at your friend now! Look at her now!" Breaking at the count of four, Trish whips Mickie off into the opposite corner, then quickly follows up by SQUASHING her with a corner clothesline! Mickie tries to stagger from the corner, her consciousness waning, only for Stratus to catch her by the hair and shake her head, declaring Mickie wasn't going anywhere with her joyful cry of "Oh no. Oh no no no no no". An almost jovial expression on her face, Trish looks out to the crowd to boos … then SLAMS Mickie down to the mat, the whiplash being no doubt felt all of the way through her spine! There's no time for her to worry about that though, with Trish making another cover, the forearm again digging into the wound:
Mickie gets her shoulder up off the mat!
The kickouts are starting to get less and less convincing, and boy does Stratus know it, climbing back to her feet to look down at James with that same broad grin still on her face. Trish waits as Mickie starts to stir, looking on intently, before Mickie turns to face Trish, prompting the Women's Champion to rub the soul of her boot over the blood-soaked forehead of Mickie. Mickie's head is jerked away, though she soon turns back, only to again have the bottom of Trish's boot dig in to her open wound. The heat from the crowd picks up even more as Trish now turns her attention back to Ashley, asking her sarcastically "Are you sure you chose the right friend, Ashley? Are you? Huh?"
Basking in her dominance, Trish now skips around the ring a bit, not a care in the world despite the crowd's abuse. Completely in control of the match, Trish turns back to Mickie … and receives a right hand to the midsection! Maybe Trish isn't in complete control! The Women's Champion backs away, stunned by the blow, before attempting to come back in … walking into another right hand to the midsection! The crowd cheers for the fiery James, who tries to fight through the pain, going for a third right … only for Trish to cut her off with a low knee, able to connect to the jaw of Mickie despite her being on her hands and knees. Mickie sags back to the mat, looking damn near out of consciousness. A now seemingly angered Stratus doesn't leave her down for long though, lifting her head up off the mat by the hair before screaming at her "Do that again, Mickie! I dare you! Do it again! Do what your "hero" says Mickie! Do-" BAM! Mickie does as Stratus says, catching her off guard with another forearm … BAM! TRISH ALMOST PUTS MICKIE'S LIGHTS OUT WITH A MONSTROUS SLAP!
The crowd boos as Mickie falls in a heap, the agitated champion standing over her, shrieking at her that she's "Absolutely pathetic!" Trish then lifts Mickie up and sends her off with an Irish whip, looking for a clothesline on the rebound … but Mickie ducks! Trish turns to see Mickie right behind her … SWINGING FOR A VICIOUS SLAP … NO! TRISH DUCKS … BUT MICKIE HITS HER WITH A TWISTING KICK RIGHT TO THE JAW INSTEAD! Trish's eyes roll back in her head, the kick all but knocking her out as she stumbles on jelly legs back into the ropes. Bouncing back off the ropes slowly, an out of it Stratus comes towards her bloodied foe, who, after recovering for a moment, springs to life … taking Trish down with a Thesz press! The crowd goes nuts as Mickie absolutely goes to town on Trish, SMASHING her in the head with rapid-fire shots!
Trish eventually fights free, now able to roll away from Mickie to pick herself back up, only for Mickie to be right back on her with a kick to the midsection! Mickie then sends Trish off with an Irish whip, allowing her to throw Stratus high into the air with a back body drop on the rebound! Stratus falls with a thud, landing awkwardly on her back, which shows as she climbs back up to her feet holding it … only to be taken back down by a clothesline! Trish gets back up into a second clothesline, before getting up once more … AND SHE GETS HER HEAD ABSOLUTELY TAKEN OFF WITH A DISCOMBOBULATING DISCUS CLOTHESLINE! Mickie hooks the leg:
Both women get up at roughly the same time after the pin attempt, with Mickie literally the first to the punch, rocking Stratus back towards the corner with a couple of blows. Stratus hangs off the ropes, looking very groggy, allowing Mickie to climb up to the second rope and start to SMASH the forehead of Trish. "ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE! SIX! SEVEN! EI-"
The crowd suddenly stops as Trish slithers out through the legs of Mickie, looking to grab her from behind … but Mickie kicks Trish square in the jaw! Trish reels back, allowing Mickie time to turn around, setting herself on the second rope when Trish suddenly springs to life, running towards Mickie … AND THEN GRABBING HER FOR THE STRATUSPHERE … TRISH LANDS IT! TRISH SCORES WITH THE STRATUSPHERE! The Women's Champion makes the cover:
Trish can't believe it, questioning Mickey Henson before pounding the mat in frustration! The challenger meanwhile uses the time to recover, slowly picking herself back up to her feet with assistance from the ropes. Trish sees this and begins to set herself, watching Mickie … before wrapping her legs around the head of Mickie, thinking headscissors takedown … BUT MICKIE THROWS HER OFF, SLAMMING HER DOWN FACE FIRST INTO THE MAT! Trish gets up quickly, holding her jaw … and Mickie grabs her by the head … POSSIBLY THINKING STRATUSFACTION! The crowd cheers … BUT MICKIE STOPS! A dissatisfied look on her face, Mickie pauses, unsure of what to do … allowing Trish the time to recover, then push her off to the ropes. Mickie bounces back … RIGHT INTO A RING SHAKING SPINEBUSTER FROM TRISH! The champion makes the cover:
The challenger, beaten and bloodied, lives to fight on! Trish, who was angered by the last kickout, is absolutely LIVID this time, stomping after Mickey Henson, demanding he tell her it was a three count. He refuses to do so, bringing the champion back to her challenger, lifting her head off the mat to scream into her face "WHY WON'T YOU STAY DOWN? WHY – WON'T YOU – STAY – DOOOWWWNNNNN?"
The champion THROWS the challengers head down, before suddenly setting herself and, somewhat ironically, demanding Mickie now gets up. Mickie is very slow in doing so, her bloodied state meaning that she's not completely with it, but she slowly manages to get up, before turning … RIGHT INTO A CHICK KICK FROM TRISH … NO! MICKIE DUCKS … AND GETS TRISH UP ONTO HER SHOULDERS … BUT TRISH SLIPS OFF! Trish narrowly avoids whatever Mickie had in mind to grab her by the head … THINKING STRATUSFACTION … BUT MICKIE GOES FOR A BACK SUPLEX … TRISH LANDS ON HER FEET! Trish shows off her amazing athleticism, landing on her feet, before charging at a turning Mickie for a clothesline … but Mickie ducks … THEN CRACKS HER HAND OFF THE FACE OF STRATUS! MICKIE RETURNS THE FAVOUR FROM EARLIER AND SLAPS TRISH INTO NEXT WEEK!
The crowd gasps as Mickie grabs Trish in a front face lock, then roars out to the crowd … BEFORE LEAPING UP AND HITTING THE CHAMPION WITH A STANDING TORNADO DDT! MICKIE SPIKES HER FORMER HERO ON THE TOP OF HER HEAD! Mickie hooks the leg:
Winner (and NEW Women's Champion): Mickie James via pinfall @ 12:54
Lilian Garcia:
Here is your winner, and the NNNEWWWWW WWE WOMEN'S CHAMPION, MMMMMICKIE JAAAMMMEEEESSSS!
The crowd gives a great pop as Mickie James holds the cover for a moment longer, before looking up to see the referee holding the Women's Title. Suddenly it all comes to Mickie as she looks at the gold, getting it in her hands, before showing it to the crowd. Before long Ashley Massaro is up in the ring, celebrating by embracing Mickie in the middle of the ring.
Joey Styles:
We have a new Women's Champion! The hard life of Mickie James, the life of misunderstanding has paid off for Mickie James tonight as she defeats her former hero to become the new head of the divas in the WWE.
Jerry Lawler:
And look at how much it means to her and her friend Ashley. Mickie is absolutely over the moon. Her dream … her dream has just come true here at WrestleMania!
Joathan Coachman:
And that's what WrestleMania is all about, ain't it 'King? As much as I dislike Mickie James, I've gotta say, this is a great moment for her, and a great WrestleMania moment for all.
We continue to see Mickie and Ashley celebrating in the ring …
We open the vignette to see Randy Orton standing tall in the spotlight on the turnbuckle.
The superstars of SmackDown! have had their time in the limelight …
Batista setting off his pyro.
They've put on their show …
We see an opening shot from WrestleMania 21.
And they've had their time in the sun …
We fade into a desert setting, with a Christian cross half-buried in the sand.
Or is their time in the sun just beginning?
Randy Orton hitting the RKO on Teddy Long.
The superstars of SmackDown! have done wrong …
Batista attacking Super Crazy.
They have sinned …
Close-up on the cross, with the sky turning dark, causing the cross to burn and The Undertaker to eppar in the background.
And now their judgment day … is coming.
Judgment Day – May 21ST, 2006
We now cut backstage … to see ROB VAN DAM sitting in his locker-room, lacing up his boots. RVD looks dead serious tonight, knowing how serious his match is.
Cutting back to ringside, we're with Tony Chimel in the ring, with the bell again ringing in the background.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is a TAG TEAM MATCH, and it is for the WWE TAG TEEEAMMM CHAAAMMMPIONSHIPS!
The crowd ABSOLUTELY EXPLODES as the familiar tune plays, bringing about the arrival of THE HARDY BOYZ. The duo dance their way out onto the stage, full of energy as they're joined by their friend SHANNON MOORE.
Tony Chimel:
Introducing first, from CAMERON, NORTH CAROLINA, weighing 460 lbs, THEEEEE HARDDDDYYYYY BOYZ!
The crowd continues to cheer as The Hardy Boyz bounce on down the ramp, slapping hands with the fans as Moore follows them.
Michael Cole:
To call tonight huge for these two men is one of the biggest understatements of the century. Tonight The Hardy Boyz go into battle not just looking to beat MNM, but they go in search of vindication. They go in search of a WrestleMania moment. They go in search of their very first WrestleMania victory as a team.
The Hardy Boyz have been involved in some of the greatest WrestleMania matches we've ever seen, but the fact that they've never won eats at 'em. Can they tonight? I dunno, but I do know this is gonna be a close one.
The Hardy Boyz slide on into the ring and get up on the turnbuckles as quick as a flash, exciting the fans ahead of their match.
A lot of heat rolls in from the crowd as the WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS, MNM make their way out onto their red carpet. Flocked by the paparazzi, MNM show no fear for the big occasion, showing off their titles gleefully.
Tony Chimel:
And from LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, weighing a combined weight of 420 lbs, they are the WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS, M – N – M!
More heat from the crowd as the tag champs parade on down the ramp, basking in the attention of the paparazzi.
Michael Cole:
For MNM this is a big night too. The WWE Tag Team Champions are trying to announce themselves on the big stage and back up their claims that they really are the greatest tag team of the 21st century.
For me, MNM is what SmackDown! is all about. They're young, they're brash, and they're damn sure talented. Whether or not they can stand up on the big stage is unknown, but they ain't three time tag team champions in under a year for no reason.
The tag champs climb up into the ring, split entrance and all from Melina, then continue to showcase their gold as this one gets set to begin.
WWE Tag Team Championships; Tag Team Match:
The Hardy Boyz w/Shannon Moore
The two trios remain in their respective corners, MNM seemingly talking some strategy, while Shannon Moore seemingly just wishes his lifelong friends luck, then drops down from the apron. Melina drops down too, and we're soon left with just the two men in the ring as Matt Hardy and Johnny Nitro look to start the match for their respective teams. The games over, Nitro knows tonight is all about bringing his A game, and as such he doesn't pay any attention to the distractions around the ring, including that of Shannon Moore. Instead the tag champ joins Matt in circling around the ring, before the two then come forward and lock up for the first time in the match. Eager to get the early edge, the two studs clash chests, attempting with all their might to overpower one another, with Hardy finally taking the edge as he forces Nitro back into the corner.
Despite cornering his opponent, Hardy doesn't try to press the advantage, slowly backing away for the clean break before again beginning to circle around the ring. Nitro again joins him as the two youngsters pace around, then step up again, with Matt, after another struggle, the man to again to take control of the match, forcing his more inexperienced opponent into the corner. Hardy allows for a clean break the second time, though the younger Nitro looks far from happy being left in the corner, perhaps getting the jitters on his WrestleMania debut.
The A-lister comes back out of the corner, joining Hardy in circling around before the two lock up for a third time, with the determination of Nitro this time allowing him to push Hardy back, with no clean break to be seen now as he immediately lays in with a right to the midsection of Hardy! Hardy keels over in pain and gasps for air, only to receive several more shots as Nitro HAMMERS his midsection, trying to press his newfound advantage until Dave Hebner intervenes, telling Nitro he'll get himself disqualified if he continues.
Nitro moves back in, looking to continue to press the advantage as he grabs Matt and tries to send him off with an Irish whip, only for Matt to reverse, then use Nitro's momentum against him by snapping him over with an arm drag on the return. Wanting to get the advantage back, Nitro hastily gets up and runs into a second arm drag, and then a third, with Matt this time keeping hold of his arm. Wrenching the arm of Nitro, Matt screams out to the crowd, showing his intensity in the early going as he, along with his brother, seeks WrestleMania redemption. Nitro tries to fight, but he's kept sedated by the wristlock from Matt, who holds complete control as he goes to the corner to tag in his brother Jeff to a huge pop. Jeff is quick to show what he's all about, heading up to the top rope as Matt keeps Nitro's arm held out, allowing Jeff to come CRASHING down into it with a double axe handle.
Nitro falls to his knees thanks to the pain that shoots through his arm, though he's not there for long as Jeff quickly rolls him over and hooks the leg:
Nitro kicks out!
Despite kicking out, Nitro is still struggling with his arm, nursing it as he gets back to his feet, allowing Jeff to move in and take it with ease, taking it overhead into a wristlock. After banging the Californian's arm down into his shoulder, Jeff drags Nitro back across to the corner and tags his brother Matt back into the action. Like Jeff before, Matt quickly goes up to the top rope as Jeff holds Nitro's arm out, allowing Matt to CRASH down into it with a double axe handle. Nitro goes down again, with Matt hot on his tail to make the cover:
Nitro springs his shoulders off the mat!
Again, despite the kickout, The Hardy Boyz continue their clinic with Matt quickly grabbing Nitro and taking him down with an arm drag, maintaining the hold on Nitro's arm as he does so, making it easy for him to keep control of the tag champ as he once again tags Jeff back into the match. It's tag team 101 as The Hardy Boyz push Nitro back into the ropes, then send him off to the ropes with an Irish whip, before scoring with a double hip toss on the rebound. The follow up from Jeff is quick as he eagerly hooks the leg:
Nitro gets his shoulders up!
Jeff nods, accepting the kickout as he gets back to his feet and again goes to pull Nitro up by his arm, only for Nitro to show he's wise beyond his years by shocking Jeff with a jawbreaker! Jeff staggers back, feeling at his jaw gingerly as Nitro rushes across and, for the first time in the match, tags in Joey Mercury. Eager to make up for his team's poor showing thus far, Mercury charges at Jeff … right into an arm drag! A frustrated Mercury can't believe it, slamming his fist into the mat in frustration after falling for the same trick as his partner, before charging back past Jeff into the ropes, right into a Japanese arm drag on the rebound! The more tolling version takes effect, causing Mercury to hold his back gingerly as he gets back to his feet by using the ropes, allowing the opening for Jeff to charge across and clothesline him over the top rope, sending him CRASHING out to the floor!
The crowd cheers as Jeff calls Matt into the ring, looking to sort out some sort of double team … only for Nitro to charge at them from behind … but The Hardy Boyz grab him by the hair and throw him out to the floor to join his partner! The duo look down at their foes on the outside as they begin to get to their feet, prompting Matt to drop to his hands and knees as Jeff runs off to the ropes … BEFORE COMING BACK AND LEAPING OFF MATT'S BACK … TO JUMP OVER THE TOP ROPE AND COME CRASHING DOWN ONTO THE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS WITH A PHENOMENAL POETRY IN MOTION TO THE OUTSIDE!
Jeff springs right back up, barely feeling the effects, and roars out to the crowd intensely! The younger Hardy brother is full of energy, looking out to the crowd as Melina starts to come towards him … but she catches sight of Shannon Moore, who also steps up closer to the action, frightening the jezebel off. This leaves Jeff free to do his thing, lifting Mercury up and rolling him back into the ring. Jeff then rolls back into the ring himself to go after Mercury, lifting him back up when Mercury springs to life, RAMMING Jeff back into the corner! Unable to follow up, Mercury instead uses the time to stagger back and recover as much as possible, before charging in at Jeff … only to eat boot! Mercury staggers back, allowing the younger Hardy the time and space to quickly jump up to the second rope, then come CRASHING back into Mercury with a twisting crossbody block into a hook of the leg:
Mercury fights free!
Both men hop right back up, with Jeff quickly kicking Mercury in the midsection, then lifting him up for a suplex … but Mercury starts to battle, causing Jeff to stagger around the ring until Mercury fights free, landing on the apron behind Jeff … allowing him to SNAP Jeff's neck back across the top rope with a reverse hotshot! Jeff goes down like a sack of potatoes, falling in front of the ropes as Mercury vaults himself in, then SMASHES his leg down into the back of Hardy's neck with a leg drop! Mercury quickly hooks the leg:
Jeff kicks out!
Mercury doesn't worry about the kickout for too long, having finally gained the advantage, instead pulling Hardy back up with his rainbow coloured hair so he can drag him across to the corner and tag in Johnny Nitro. For the first time in the bout the WWE Tag Team Champions look to work their magic as a team, pushing Jeff back into the ropes, then sending him off with an Irish whip, only for their nerves to AGAIN get the better of them as they bend over too early for a double back body drop, with Jeff taking advantage by KICKING Nitro as hard as he can in the chest! Nitro reels back, the sound of the kick drawing Mercury's attention as he comes at Jeff … right into a clothesline! Hardy then takes Nitro down with a clothesline, before pitching Mercury out through the ropes and taking Nitro across to tag Matt back into the match.
Unlike MNM, The Hardy Boyz work fluidly as they too utilise a double Irish whip, sending Nitro off to the ropes, only to show the tag champs how it's done by connecting with a double reverse elbow, before SLAMMING down into Nitro with a double leg drop! Matt makes the cover:
The counts are getting longer as Matt gets back to his feet and quickly tags Jeff back into the match, with Jeff going to work on Nitro, grabbing him by the hair and SLAMMING him down face first into the turnbuckle. Jeff follows up as he starts to DRIVE the wind out of the sails of Nitro, kicking him several times in the midsection, before whipping his foe across to the other corner and roaring out to the crowd, then charging in … RIGHT INTO A DROP TOE HOLD FROM NITRO THAT TAKES HIM DOWN FACE FIRST INTO THE SECOND TURNBUCKLE!
The crowd groans, feeling that one as much as Jeff did, with the big move allowing Nitro a moment to lie against the ropes and recover. Realising he can't rest on his laurels for too long in such a big match, Nitro grabs Jeff and rolls him back into the middle of the ring to make the cover:
Jeff gets his shoulders up off the mat!
A stressed Nitro falls off the cover, looking up at the referee in dismay having had a rough night thus far, before getting on with business at the behest of Melina on the outside, dragging Jeff up and pinning his arms back as he tags Mercury back into the action. The slightly smaller half of the tag champs climbs into the ring and instantly takes his shot, doubling Jeff over with a HARD punch to the midsection, before going back to work on the neck by DRIVING the point of his elbow down into it. Jeff goes to fall away to his corner, but Mercury stops him, grabbing him around the head and snapmaring him over … before shaking the spine of the Cameron native with a CRACKING kick. Jeff cringes in pain, his neck tingling as Mercury presses him down into the mat and makes the cover:
Jeff gets his shoulders up off the mat!
Mercury shakes off the kickout, not worrying about it too much as he swings back up to his feet and sees Jeff attempting to do the same, giving him a free shot as he kicks Jeff right in the neck. Jeff starts to fall towards the enemy corner, and Mercury takes advantage, measuring his foe before DRIVING his fist into Jeff's face, sending him stumbling back to the corner. Mercury is quick to follow, taking advantage of Jeff being cornered by HAMMERING away on him with some extremely measured right hand shots, looking to do as much damage as possible, before breaking up referee Dave Hebner's count by tagging Johnny Nitro back into the match.
The nerves seemingly gone, Nitro whispers something to Mercury, prompting Mercury to hold Jeff in place as his partner backs into the middle of the ring, then charges in to SMASH into the head of Hardy with a leaping forearm. Jeff starts to fall, Mercury being the only thing keeping him on his feet as he throws Jeff off towards Nitro, who lands a boot to the midsection, then SNAPS Jeff down into the mat with a swinging neckbreaker! Jeff grabs at his neck in pain while Nitro sits up, a cocky smirk now on his face as the confidence continues to grow, before finally hooking the leg of Jeff:
Nitro looks slightly disappointed at first, though he doesn't dwell on it for long, sweeping back up to his feet to start to pace around, then just plain KICK the downed Jeff in the neck. His confidence at a premium high, the Californian continues to circle around Jeff, kicking him in the neck and head until Jeff lies down, at which point Nitro points at Shannon Moore on the outside and says "Just like you" … before pulling out an AMAZING break dance style leg drop, DRIVING his leg down into the neck of Jeff! The crowd can't help but be in awe of Nitro's sensational athleticism as the narcissistic tag champ makes another cover:
'The A-Lister' is quickly up again, sweeping back to his feet before looking down at Jeff struggling, basking in the moment as he asks the crowd "So this is the greatest tag team of all-time?" Having gained some significant heat, Nitro smirks, then lifts Jeff by the hair and SNAPS his neck back with a scintillating European uppercut! Nitro follows up with a second, sending Jeff all of the way back to the corner before moving in and SMASHING the jaw of Jeff with some hard right hands. A wobbly Jeff is then sent off to the opposite corner, with Nitro taking his sweet time to follow up, doing the classic paparazzi taunt on Jeff in the corner to some great heat, before charging in … right into a boot from Jeff! A stunned Nitro staggers back to the middle of the ring, the boot having caught him right in the chin, before regathering and again charging in … and he again meets Jeff's boot!
The crowd cheers as Jeff sees an opening and attempts to take it, charging out of the corner for a clothesline … but Nitro ducks … THEN ROCKS HIM WITH A SUPERB ENZUIGURI RIGHT TO THE BACK OF THE NECK AND HEAD! Jeff goes down like a ton of bricks, with Nitro quickly rolling him over and hooking the leg:
The previously unflustered Nitro looks genuinely shocked, having believed that he had put Jeff away. Dave Hebner reconfirms that it was just two though, leaving Nitro to wonder what to do next, with Melina calling him to tag Mercury back in. Nitro does just that, allowing Joey Mercury to charge into the centre of the ring where Jeff lies and attempt to put an end to the match, quickly grabbing a criss cross sleeper hold! The tag champ puts the pressure right on, DIGGING his knee into the back of Jeff's neck, causing him to wince in pain. Quitting doesn't appear to be an option for Jeff despite his inability to fight back at first, but with the crowd beginning to cheer him on, Jeff starts to find a second wind, pumping his fist into the air as he begins to fight up. Panicking, Mercury readjusts to a regular sleeper hold, looking to go back to basics, but he can't stop the resilient Hardy, who refuses to have his WrestleMania dreams quashed, fighting up to his feet to DRIVE his elbow into the midsection of Mercury. The Californian jumps into the air with every shot, the pain clear as Jeff now looks to run off to the ropes … but Mercury YANKS him by the hair, sending him crashing down to the mat, before jumping on the cover:
The crowd cheers the kickout as Mercury beats the mat in frustration, after thinking again that he had the match wrapped up. Jeff refuses to quit though, and Mercury, knowing he's going to need something big climbs back to his feet … AND CALLS FOR THE END! The crowd boos as Jeff struggles on the mat, only for Mercury to grab him, not wanting to waste any time … AS HE HOOKS UP FOR THE DOUBLE UNDERHOOK DDT … BUT JEFF COMES OUT OF NOWHERE WITH A BACK BODY DROP TO SURVIVE! Mercury flops up to his feet, holding his back in pain … WHEN JEFF HARDY FLIES AT HIM OUT OF NOWHERE … AND LANDS ON TOP OF HIM WITH THE WHISPER IN THE WIND!
The crowd cheers heavily as both men go down, Mercury wiped out by that one big move from Hardy, while Hardy tries to shake off the extended punishment he received from MNM. Bit by bit, the two start to inch their way towards their respective corners, getting closer and closer as they look to make a tag … and Mercury gets there first, tagging in Johnny Nitro! Nitro rushes into the ring and grabs Jeff by the leg, looking to prevent the tag as Jeff hops up onto one leg … then NAILS Nitro in the jaw with a twisting mule kick! Nitro falls down onto his ass, giving Jeff some space … AND HE TAKES ADVANTAGE, TAGGING MATT BACK INTO THE MATCH!
The crowd gives a great cheer as Matt comes charging into the ring, instantly knocking a rising Nitro down with a clothesline, and then a second, before scoring with a reverse elbow. Nitro is shaky now, with Matt sending him off to the corner with an Irish whip, before following him in and SQUASHING him with a corner clothesline! The crowd cheers as Matt grabs Nitro by the head and runs out to the middle of the ring … when Joey Mercury springs into the ring … BUT MATT TAKES HIM DOWN WITH A LEAPING CLOTHESLINE WHILE SMASHING NITRO'S FACE INTO THE MAT WITH THE BULLDOG!
The crowd erupts as Matt springs back up to his feet … AND CALLS FOR THE END! Matt revs the crowd up, holding his hands up as Nitro gets up, right into a kick to the midsection … AND THEN A FRONT FACE LOCK, THINKING TWIST OF FATE … BUT MERCURY GOES FOR A CLOTHESLINE … AND MATT DUCKS, GRABBING HIM IN AN INVERTED FRONT FACE LOCK WITH THE OTHER ARM … DDT TO NITRO AND INVERTED DDT TO MERCURY! HARDY WIPES OUT BOTH MEMBERS OF MNM IN ONE GO! He makes the cover on Nitro:
The crowd groans, having believed that was it, although Matt doesn't appear too fussed, climbing back to his feet … then pointing to the corner to a big pop! Matt heads out to the apron, then climbs up to the top rope … AND ROARS OUT TO THE CROWD … BUT MERCURY CUTS HIM OFF, CHARGING ACROSS AND CROTCHING HIM ON THE TOP ROPE! The crowd boos as Mercury scores with a few rights, dazing Matt, before getting Nitro's attention and calling him across to the corner too … SETTING UP FOR A DOUBLE SUPERPLEX! The WWE Tag Team Champions climb the ropes, grabbing Matt and holding him in position … WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN JEFF HARDY ROLLS INTO THE RING AND HITS THEM IN THE BACK! MNM are cut off as Jeff stuns both members of MNM, then suddenly gets in between them and grabs them by the legs, thinking double powerbomb … but he's unaware that MNM still has Matt … AND ALL THREE MEN COME CRASHING OFF THE ROPES TO THE MAT BELOW WITH THE TOWER OF DOOM!
The crowd gasps as all four men go down, a brief "HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!" chant going up as Dave Hebner looks on at the chaos. All four men appear equally drained, climbing back up to their feet at the same time to break into two fist fights, Jeff against Nitro and Matt against Mercury. Slowly but surely, The Hardy Boyz start to get the edge … only for both members of MNM to come out with a thumb to the eye! The Hardy Boyz stagger back to the ropes, with MNM simultaneously charging in … and getting a pair of back body drops … but they both lands on the apron! The Hardy Boyz expected it though, with Matt turning and sending Mercury down to the floor with a right hand, while Jeff boots and hooks Nitro up … then SLAMS him down into the ring with a suplex!
Nitro is alone in the ring, falling back into the corner as both Hardy Boyz stare at him … and Matt quickly gets into position on hands and knees in front of the corner … ALLOWING JEFF TO CHARGE IN … POETRY IN MOTION CONNECTS! The crowd cheers as Nitro falls to a seated position and Jeff springs up, grabbing the ropes … TO NAIL AN ELEVATED DROPKICK RIGHT TO THE BUTTON! Matt drags Nitro out of the corner and hooks the leg:
The crowd reacts with a disappointed groan, feeling sure that was it, only for Nitro to kick out at the last moment. The Hardy Boyz don't take long to react though, nodding with each other … AND JEFF HEADS OVER TO THE CORNER AS MATT CALLS FOR THE TWIST OF FATE! The crowd gives a huge pop as Jeff ascends to the top rope and Matt grabs Nitro by the head … BUT JOEY MERCURY JUMPS UP ONTO THE APRON AND PUSHES JEFF DOWN OFF THE TURNBUCKLE, LANDING ON THE FLOOR WITH A SICKENING THUD! Matt looks on, shocked as he still holds Nitro … who suddenly spins out of Matt's hold … THEN ROCKS HIM OUT OF NOWHERE WITH A SUPERKICK! Matt doesn't go down, remaining on his feet as Nitro runs off to the ropes … THEN COMES BACK WITH A SPRINGBOARD ENZUIGURI! Matt falls right on his ass … THEN HAS HIS HEAD TAKEN OFF BY A RUNNING KNEE FROM MERCURY! Nitro quickly hooks the leg:
MNM can't believe it, feeling sure they had retained their titles, looking seemingly lost in the ring until Melina gets their attention … AND CALLS FOR THEM TO END IT! The crowd boos as MNM gets into position, waiting on Matt to get up … and once he does Mercury immediately lifts him … GETTING HIM IN POSITION FOR THE SNAPSHOT … BUT MATT FIGHTS FREE, KNEEING MERCURY RIGHT IN THE HEAD AND SENDING HIM DOWN ONTO HIS ASS! Nitro looks shocked, charging at Matt and going for a clothesline, but Matt ducks … THEN PLANTS HIM WITH THE SIDE EFFECT! The crowd goes nuts as Matt springs up to his feet, full of energy … AS HE CALLS FOR THE TWIST OF FATE AGAIN!
This time Matt wastes no time, realising the importance as he lifts Nitro up … BUT THEN REALISES MELINA IS ON THE APRON … AND JOEY MERCURY SLIDES INTO THE RING BEHIND HIM, WIELDING ONE OF THE WWE TAG TEAM TITLES! The crowd boos as Mercury winds back … THEN GOES TO SWING … BUT SHANNON MOORE SLIDES INTO THE RING AND TAKES THE GOLD OFF MERCURY! Mercury is shocked, turning to see Moore in the ring … BEFORE MATT TURNS HIM … AND LANDS THE TWIST OF FATE! Jeff now drags Nitro, who Matt threw back down, from the ring, rolling in himself … AND HE TELLS MATT TO GO TO THE TOP!
Melina drops from the apron finally, shocked and unsure what to do with Shannon Moore watching her from close by as The Hardy Boyz go to opposite corners, then climb up to the top rope and point at one another, knowing that this is their moment … AND THEY LEAP UP … THEN COME CRASHING DOWN … RIGHT ONTO MERCURY WITH THE EVENT OMEGA! The crowd goes NUTS, as Matt hooks the leg:
Winners (and NEW WWE Tag Team Champions): The Hardy Boyz via pinfall @ 21:01
Tony Chimel:
Here are your winners, and the NEEEWWWW WWE TAG TEEEAAMM CHAMPIONS, THE HARDY BOOYYYZZZZ!
The reception for The Hardy Boyz is nothing short of exceptional as they receive the WWE Tag Team Titles and go nuts in their celebration, basking in the moment.
Michael Cole:
Finally, six years after their WrestleMania debut, The Hardy Boyz have done it. The Hardy Boyz have beaten MNM and they have captured not just the WWE Tag Team Titles, but also their own WrestleMania moment!
If ya ask me, MNM put in a great performance, but tonight was all about The Hardy Boyz. Congrats to Matt an' Jeff, who have wanted this moment since they were just little kids. It's good to see 'em finally get it.
We continue to see The Hardy Boyz basking in their victory for a moment longer …
… Before cutting backstage to see the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, BATISTA sitting on a bench, looking deep into his title.
Joey Styles:
Well there is 'The Animal' Batista, ahead of his match against Randy Orton for the World Heavyweight Title, but up next, we're going to see perhaps the most personal match we've ever seen in the WWE. It'll be 'The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels, 'The Game' Triple H, facing one on one for the last time in a No Holds Barred Match. For just a moment, let's take a look back at the long and storied history of these two.
We open the video package by seeing the D-Generation X of old, with Shawn Michaels, Triple H and co treating the WWF as their own.
Shawn Michaels:
I was the one who created DX.
Triple H:
Back in 1997? It was all about you.
Shawn Michaels leaving at WrestleMania XIV.
Shawn Michaels:
I left because I had lost my smile.
Triple H:
When you left in 1998 … it was all about you.
Scenes of Shawn Michaels coming back in 2002.
Shawn Michaels:
And yet I still came back, broken back and all.
Triple H:
And when you came back in 2002 … it was all … about … you.
Shots of Shawn Michaels being attacked by Triple H in 2002.
Shawn Michaels:
You've always been jealous.
Triple H:
You've always tried to hog the limelight.
Triple H slamming the sledgehammer into the back of Shawn Michaels.
Shawn Michaels:
You tried to take me out.
Triple H:
I always knew you were bad.
We've been through it all.
Triple H beating Shawn Michaels in the Unsanctioned Match.
Triple H:
Unsanctioned matches …
Shawn Michaels hitting Triple H with Sweet Chin Music in the Elimination Chamber.
Shawn Michaels:
Elimination Chambers …
Triple H sending Shawn Michaels crashing through the tables in their Three Stages of Hell Match.
Triple H:
Three Stages of Hell …
Shawn hitting Triple H with a chair in their Last Man Standing Match.
Shawn Michaels:
Last Man Standing Matches …
Triple H throwing Shawn Michaels into the Hell in a Cell.
Triple H:
Hell in a Cell …
A shot of the two facing off in the centre of the ring.
Shawn Michaels:
So this Sunday …
Triple H:
So this Sunday …
Shawn Michaels hitting Triple H in the head with the sledgehammer.
Shawn Michaels:
I'm going to finish you …
Triple H now hitting Shawn with the sledgehammer.
Triple H:
I'm going to end your career …
Random action shots of the two.
Shawn Michaels:
There's going to be no need for another match …
Triple H:
No need to settle it after tonight …
Shawn Michaels:
Because this …
Triple H:
Because this …
Shawn Michaels:
Will be …
Triple H:
Our …
Shawn Michaels:
Final …
Triple H:
Battle …
We once again settle with both men staring one another down.
Your career is mine!
Into the arena to see Lilian Garcia in the ring, bell sounding in the background.
Lilian Garcia:
The following contest is the NOOO HOOLLDDSS BAAARRRREDDDD MATCH!
The crowd goes NUTS as the heavy guitar sounds out into the arena, bringing about the arrival of the ever intense TRIPLE H. 'The Game' looks down at the floor, before spitting his water up into the air and advancing down the ramp.
Lilian Garcia:
Introducing first, from STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT, weighing 265 lbs, 'THE GAAAME', TRRRIIIIIIPPPPPLLLLEEEEE H!
The reaction from the crowd continues as 'The Game' storms down the ramp, not interested in anything right now, other than getting up into the ring.
Joey Styles:
It is perhaps the most personal rivalry we have ever seen on Monday Night RAW, and tonight, it comes to a head. Triple H and Shawn Michaels have said that one way or another, tonight they're going to finish it, and you have to believe they mean it.
Jonathan Coachman:
This is gonna be great! There's gonna be blood, there's gonna be sweat, and there could even be tears. This is what it's all about – two guys who hate each other just beatin' the holy hell outta one another. I love it.
Jerry Lawler:
There's only gonna be one man left standing after this, if that. I don't think we're gonna see either in any state to be seen for quite some time after this.
'The Game' does his usual shtick on the way into the ring, throwing his arms out and spitting the water up, before climbing into the ring and waiting …
The crowd erupts into a huge mixed reaction as SHAWN MICHAELS comes charging down the stage … with Triple H charging up to meet him!
No Holds Barred Match:
Triple H
Shawn Michaels
Referee Jack Doan decides that due to it being a No Holds Barred contest, the bell can be called for anyway, and this one is underway, AS THESE TWO ENEMIES TRADE BOMBS ON THE RAMP! The electricity in the air is at all an all-time high as they go back and forth, neither man giving an inch as Triple H strikes, then Shawn Michaels, then Triple H, then Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Shawn Michaels, TRIPLE H, SHAWN MICHAELS, TRIPLE H, SHAWN MICHAELS, TRIPLE H … TRIPLE H … TRIPLE H … TRIPLE H … TRIPLE … NO! Shawn cuts his foe off with a kick to the midsection, then grabs him by the hair and looks to introduce him to the crowd barrier … but Triple H blocks! 'The Game' doesn't allow it, reaching his hands out to stop the blow, before elbowing Shawn in the midsection, then SLAMMING his head down into the crowd barrier!
The crowd goes wild as Shawn falls back up the ramp, staggered after that blow, only to receive several more as Triple H PUMMELS him all of the way back up to the stage, then grabs him by the hair and HURLS him into a steel part of the WrestleMania stage set! Shawn flops to the floor, dazed and confused early as he stumbles back up into SOME MORE HEAVY right hands from Triple H! 'The Cerebral Assassin' has more than just revenge on his mind; he has the end of his former best friend's career on his mind as he STRIKES Shawn in the head with blow, after blow, AFTER BLOW!
Michaels is on jelly legs early, with Triple H knocking him stupid courtesy of his heavily taped right hand, sending Michaels right onto the edge of the stage, looking like he could fall at any moment as Triple H backs up a few steps … THEN CHARGES, LOOKING TO CLOTHESLINE SHAWN OFF THE STAGE AND DOWN TO THE ELECTRICAL MESS BELOW … BUT SHAWN COMES OUT OF NOWHERE WITH A BACK BODY DROP … AND IT IS TRIPLE H WHO IS SENT OFF THE STAGE, LANDING DOWN IN THE ELECTIRCAL EQUIPMENT WITH A MASSIVE BANG!
Despite their favourite being thrown into oblivion, the crowd instantaneously erupts into a chant of "HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!", with Shawn taking a moment to recover … BEFORE HIS EYES SUDDENLY GLAZE OVER … AND HE RUNS TOWARDS THE END OF THE STAGE, THEN LEAPS OFF … LANDING RIGHT ON TOP OF 'THE GAME' IN AMONGST THE WRECKAGE DOWN BELOW! SHAWN MICHAELS SACRIFICES HIMSELF, ALL TO DO AS MUCH DAMAGE TO TRIPLE H AS POSSIBLE!
If you thought the chant was loud before then you haven't heard anything out as the crowd rises in one, chanting the same two words in complete unison – "HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!" The sentiments of the crowd pretty much sum up the match too – we are not even three minutes in yet! As referee Jack Doan goes to rush around the ramp, we can only assume that both Triple H and Shawn Michaels are down amongst the rubble, their bodies broken messes … BUT NO! We get close enough, and we see both men back up already, STANDING in the rubble, TRADING RIGHT HANDS AGAIN! Their determination to get their hands on one another can not be broken as both men swing wildly, with the perhaps less hurt Shawn Michaels this time getting the edge … only for Triple H to start to fire back!
'The Game' lambasts Shawn Michaels with some of the HEAVIEST right hands you're ever likely to see, the tape on his fist, GRINDING into the forehead of Michaels again and again, until Shawn FINALLY stops him, cutting him off with a knee lift to the midsection that DRIVES the oxygen out of Hunter! Shawn is quick to follow up too, shaking off the effects of all of the blows he has sustained to drag Triple H away from the rubble, then HURL Triple H right into the crowd barrier with a THUD!
Triple H is feeling it after that one, leaning against the barrier, though Shawn gives him no real time to recover as he charges across … THEN SENDS BOTH MEN FLYING OVER THE CROWD BARRIER AND INTO THE CROWD WITH A MASSIVE CLOTHESLINE! Security rushes across to hold the manic crowd back as both men get back to their feet … and they AGAIN start trading right hands, with neither man getting a true advantage, both absolutely swinging for the fences! With neither man worried about defending himself, we get an absolute brawl between the two starting to move through the crowd as they also grab at one another's heads, clawing at each other as they move through the masses. 'The Game' is the one who finally starts to get the edge, damn near CAVING Michaels' head in with his right hand blows as they move throughout the crowd. Going up the stairs, Triple H continues to hold the advantage, but when they reach a plateau, Shawn thinks quick, booting his enemy in the midsection, before THROWING him into the steel protector that stops them falling to the below level!
The protective guardrail stays up, but Shawn has the advantage now, taking it to Triple H with some right hands of his own as they start to move through the crowd, headed to another set of stairs. Shawn stays on the attack, forcing Triple H down the stairs as the fans roar in approval of the fight at ringside, the right hands still BASHING right into the forehead of Triple H, until, like Shawn earlier, Triple H cuts Shawn off with a knee lift, DRIVING it up into his opponent's ribs to a big "OH" from those nearby. 'The Cerebral Assassin' thinks quickly, with Shawn at his mercy as he grabs him by the hair … THEN TOSSES HIM DOWN THE STAIRS! The crowd looks on in amazement as Shawn's body rolls down the concrete, SMASHING INTO STEP AFTER STEP UNTIL HE FINALLY REACHES THE BOTTOM!
Triple H isn't too far behind, walking after his foe as he starts to get up … then jumps from the steps, coming down with a double axe handle that sends Shawn Michaels back down to the floor to a big pop from the crowd. 'The Game' ROARS to the crowd, brimming with intensity as he does his signature pose while watching Shawn Michaels clamber up to his feet with support from the crowd barrier … before charging and sending Michaels TUMBLING over the crowd barrier, down back to ringside courtesy of a THUNDEROUS clothesline!
Triple H is quick to follow Shawn, climbing back to ringside himself as Michaels claws himself into the ring and looks to escape, although the last blow has rendered him dazed and confused, making his movements lethargic at best, allowing Triple H to slide into the ring after him and catch 'HBK' by his tights. 'The Game', shaking with rage, pulls Michaels to his feet, causing the cowardly Michaels to attempt to beg off, pleading with Triple H to let him go … only for Triple H to HAMMER him with another massive right. Michaels goes stumbling back towards the corner, 'The Game' in hot pursuit after him as he hits another right to force him back into the corner, before looking into the eyes of 'The Heartbreak Kid' … and then DRILLING him with some amazing right hand shots! Tripper goes at the pace of the legendary Kenta Kobashi's chops, only with right hands, smashing Michaels in the face again and again and again AND AGAIN AND AGAIN, UNTIL MICHAELS FINALLY FALLS DOWN TO A SEATED POSITION ON THE MAT, HIS EYES ROLLING BACK IN HIS HEAD!
The crowd goes nuts for the intensity of 'The Game', who throws his arms up in his typical pose while roaring out. Trips, not wanting to take his hands off Michaels for long at all, moves back in and grabs his former best friend by the hair, lifting him up before Irish whipping him to the opposite corner with all of his might … and Shawn Michaels hits the turnbuckle back first and folds up it, before flopping back down to his feet and turning … right into a JAW CRUNCHING clothesline from Triple H! The crowd can do nothing but continue to cheer for Triple H as he heads back to the corner with Michaels down, then looks around before giving him the DX crotch chop. This gets a huge pop from the Chicago crowd, who look on as Triple H charges, then DROPS a knee right across the face of his enemy.
'The Cerebral Assassin' rolls back to his feet and looks back at Michaels, seeing he's still down … before rolling out to the floor, in search of some extra ammo in the form of weapons! 'The Game' rummages through the mess under the ring, finding himself some garbage can lids that he tosses in, before eventually finding a garbage can full of goodies. The intense 'Game' hurls the can into the ring, then climbs back up into it himself … BAM! Trips walks right into a surprise garbage can lid shot to the head from a desperate Michaels! 'The Game' is only staggered though, remaining on his feet, until … CRACK! Another shot to the head from the garbage can lid sends Triple H down onto the mat with a thud!
The crowd dumps on 'HBK' as he stumbles about the ring, having finally bought himself enough time to pull himself back together. Realising that he's finally got his foe in a compromising position, Michaels tosses the bent out of shape garbage can lid away and instead picks up the other one, ready to go back to work. Unaware of the presence of Shawn Michaels standing over him, 'The Game' starts to pick himself up to his hands and knees … SMASH! Michaels smashes the garbage can right down into the spine of Triple H!
A sick smile on his face, Shawn watches as his former best friend writhes in pain on the mat … before suddenly going to town on the back of 'The Game', SMASHING the garbage can lid into it again and again and again and again AND AGAIN AND AGAIN! Michaels just keeps on going, showing no signs of relenting until the weapon is finally so bent out of shape that it simply cannot be used any longer! Michaels is far from done though, for as soon as he tosses his used weapon away, he heads back across to the garbage can to find a new one. Like a kid in a candy store, Michaels analyses the weapons he sees, thinking of the scenarios they could be used in, before finally settling upon a crutch.
A sadistic look on his face, 'The Heartbreak Kid' makes his way over to a rising Tripper, before sneering at him and coldly saying "You'll need more than just these once I'm done with you". Triple H continues to struggle up, finally finding himself on his feet … when Shawn DRIVES the crutch right into his gut, doubling him over immediately in pain! Michaels then raises the crutch in the air … to CRACK it down across the back of Triple H, BREAKING THE CRUTCH IN HALF! 'The Game' once again goes down hard as Michaels disposes of his broken weapon, leading him to go back to the garbage can to find a new one. Michaels has a good search, unsure of what weapon to choose … until he lays eyes on a steel chain! An evil grin on his face, Michaels pulls the chain up and lets it run through his hand, basking in the thought of how it's going to feel when it's being wrapped around the body of Triple H.
With 'The Game' still down, Michaels is allowed to saunter at his own pace to what may well be the carcass of his former best friend, before lifting the chain up … and LASHING it down across his back! The crowd groans in pain, both feeling and seeing how much that one MUST hurt thanks to the red mark that has already been left across Hunter's back. Michaels has spotted the lash mark too, as shown by the look of sick satisfaction on his face. That expression doesn't last long though, as the hatred is back … SMACK! Michaels WHIPS the chain down across the back of Triple H again! The crowd again groans, although Michaels' expression remains the same … leading to him whipping Trips again! And again! And again! Michaels goes absolutely crazy, WHIPPING the chain down onto Triple H time and time again, letting his anger hang on out for all to see. The crowd can do nothing but look on in shock as the new Shawn Michaels shows that he has well and truly changed, with remorse now not a word that he knows. The back of Triple H gets brighter and brighter red as he groans in pain and tries to claw away, his only hope for the pain to stop being if he can escape. Michaels follows him though, continuing to whip the chain across the back of 'The Game' until finally – FINALLY Triple H is able to pull himself from the ring.
Michaels looks out to the crowd, drawing some immense heat before he goes back on out after 'The Game', steel chain still in hand. Looking for some kind of relent, Triple H tries to crawl away, but Michaels is right on top of him, telling him "You're not goin' anywhere!" 'The Heartbreak Kid' makes sure of that too, grabbing his opponent by the hair to stop him moving … before starting to wrap the steel chain around his neck! The crowd looks on in shock as Michaels pulls it tight, then throws the rest of the chain up over the top rope into the ring. It seems Joey Styles knows what's coming, as we hear him silently say "Oh no … oh no" to himself, but there's absolutely nothing he can do other than watch Shawn Michaels roll back into the ring.
A twisted sneer on his face, Michaels saunters over towards the chain, looks out to the crowd, then seizes it with his hands and suddenly pulls back … EFFECTIVELY HANGING TRIPLE H FROM THE TOP ROPE! The crowd looks on in complete and utter shock as the new demonic Shawn Michaels pulls back further and further, dragging the body of Triple H along … UNTIL HIS FEET START TO LIFT OFF THE GROUND! The Allstate Arena shudders as one as Triple H's body starts to dangle and his face begins to go pale, his hands manically struggling to try to get some space in between his windpipe and the chain. Michaels just pulls further and further back until he can go anywhere else, leaving 'The Game' to fight a futile struggle. The view from over Michaels' shoulder shows Triple H's arms flailing, his head shaking … until he suddenly goes limp. Shawn Michaels has just literally killed his best friend.
With not even a shred of remorse, Michaels now drops the chain, causing Triple H's body to fall to the outside in a heap. Despite putting 'The Game' down, the serious expression of Michaels remains as 'HBK' makes his way across the ring and rolls out to retrieve the body of Triple H. After removing the chain from around Triple H's neck, Michaels tries to lift his enemy up, although the dead weight causes quite the struggle. Michaels eventually manages to get Triple H's body rolled back into the ring, allowing him to follow and make the cover, hoping put Triple H out for good:
Michaels is absolutely livid, realising that Triple H thought his way out of his execution with the chain. Seeing that 'The Game' is still in a bad way, Michaels rolls from the ring … AND GRABS THE STEEL CHAIN AGAIN! MICHAELS WANTS TO PUT TRIPLE H DOWN ONCE AND FOR ALL! The crowd knows it too, absolutely shitting on Shawn Michaels as he makes his way across to Triple H, who has started to pull himself up in the corner. With a face of thunder, Michaels goes to grab Triple H by the hair and wrap the chain around his neck again … when Triple H suddenly shocks Michaels with a kick to the midsection! The crowd lets out a surprised pop as Michaels doubles over … and a furious 'Game' comes out of nowhere with a flurry of right hands! Triple H forces his foe all of the way across to the ropes with the rights, then looks for an Irish whip, only for Michaels to reverse … but Triple H ducks the clothesline attempt on the rebound … then STEAMROLLS Michaels with one of his own on the way back!
'The Cerebral Assassin' picks Michaels back up and again looks for an Irish whip, only for Michaels to reverse once more … then, in a state of panic, drop down for a back body drop too early … allowing Triple H to hit his patented facebuster! Michaels reels back, giving Triple H time to back off into the ropes … high knee … no! Michaels steps past it, then runs off to the ropes behind 'The Game', who turns … and gets NAILED with the flying forearm smash from Shawn Michaels! The crowd looks on … and Michaels kips back up to some MONSTROUS heat! You'd be kidding yourself if you thought Michaels could give a damn as he waits on Triple H to get up, then hits him with an inverted atomic drop. With Triple H hopping around in pain, Michaels is allowed to turn and pull the last weapon out of the garbage can – a street sign – and SMASH it over the head of 'The Game', sending him down to the mat!
Seeing how bent the street sign has become after just one shot, Michaels disposes of it, and now moves on to grab the empty garbage can. With Triple H down and looking extremely groggy on the mat, Michaels is allowed to take his time in grabbing the garbage can, before bringing it across and sitting Triple H up … so he can place Triple H's head inside the garbage can! The crowd murmurs in wonder as Shawn lays Triple H back down … then heads towards the corner … AND BEGINS TO CLIMB TO THE TOP ROPE! The murmurs from the crowd now turn into a buzz as they look on at Michaels standing atop the ropes, looking down at an unsuspecting Triple H coldly … BEFORE GOING FOR THE ELBOW DROP … BUT TRIPLE H KNOWS MICHAELS WELL ENOUGH TO REALISE WHAT WAS COMING, ALLOWING HIM TO ROLL OUT OF THE WAY! MICHAELS HITS NOTHING BUT MAT!
The crowd erupts as Michaels rolls around on the mat in pain, feeling at his back as he quickly gets back to his feet … BAM! Triple H CREAMS Michaels over the head with the garbage can, sending Michaels straight down to the mat! 'The Game' staggers around initially after the shot, the effects of the match clearly taking its toll. However, after disposing of the now crumpled trash can, Triple H uses his hatred for Shawn Michaels to regather himself and push himself to pitch Michaels' limp body out through the ropes to the floor. Tripper isn't far behind Michaels, following him to the outside before lifting him up by the hair and SLAMMING his head down into the Spanish announce table. Michaels reels back after the shot, allowing Triple H time to pull the plastic casing of the table away … before BLASTING Michaels in the skull with a monitor! Michaels again goes down in a heap, drawing a cheer from the crowd in support of 'The Game', who, after an unsuccessful fight to pull the monitor free from the table, settles instead storming across to the timekeeper's area to grab a steel chair. The crowd buzzes as Triple H storms towards Michaels with it, watching as Michaels picks himself up with a little help from the apron, then turns … SMASH! TRIPLE H HITS SHAWN MICHAELS RIGHT BETWEEN THE EYES WITH THE STEEL CHAIR! Michaels crumples down into a heap!
The crowd goes absolutely nuts as Triple H throws the chair away … then lifts Shawn Michaels' limp body up … TO PUT HIM UP ON THE SPANISH ANNOUNCE TABLE! The crowd goes bonkers as 'The Game' now climbs up onto the announce table himself to lift Michaels' body … AND BUTTERFLY HIS ARMS! TRIPLE H IS THINKING PEDIGREE … NO! SHAWN MICHAELS DROPS TO HIS KNEES … THEN HITS TRIPLE H SQUARE IN THE GROIN WITH A LOW BLOW! A DESPERATE MICHAELS HITS TRIPLE H RIGHT IN THE NUTS!
The crowd boos as Triple H falls onto his knees, allowing Michaels to slide off the table … THEN SUDDENLY CRACK THE UNREMOVED TELEVISION MONITOR OFF THE HEAD OF 'THE GAME'! MICHAELS TURNS TRIPLE H'S LIGHTS OUT … AND HE'S ON TOP OF THE ANNOUNCE TABLE! Triple H is down and out – now [COLOR= "RED "]
[/color] on the announce table – something that Shawn Michaels has only glanced back at and realised. His mind ticking, Michaels stares at Triple H for a moment … before suddenly looking up at the top turnbuckle! Michaels glances back and forth between 'The Game' and the top rope a few times … before heading for the ring! The crowd can't help but cheer at first, although as Michaels starts to mount the ropes, the heat now comes in. Shawn does his best to ignore it though, climbing to the top rope to look down at Triple H lying prone on the table, the crowd buzzing … when Shawn Michaels delivers the classic D-Generation X crotch chop to some massive heat … THEN LEAPS INTO THE SKY … TO COME DOWN WITH AN ELBOW DROP … BUT NO ONE'S HOME! TRIPLE H ROLLS OUT OF DODGE OFF THE TABLE AT THE LAST MOMENT, LEAVING SHAWN MICHAELS TO CRASH OFF THE ANNOUNCE TABLE, ONLY PARTIALLY BREAKING IT!
Both men now remain down, Triple H in front of the announce table, Shawn Michaels behind it, the sound in the background being that of "HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!" We see the replay time and time again of Shawn's body crashing off the table, his previously injured back surely giving him great trouble as both men still remain down, neither showing too many signs of life. Finally, it is Triple H who starts to roll around, perhaps rediscovering where he is and what he is doing, before picking himself up with help from the table. Despite being up, 'The Game' is going nowhere fast, staggering around on jelly legs at ringside until we see the hands of Shawn Michaels clasp at the announce table, signalling his attempt to try to get back to his feet. Triple H sees it too, and he immediately swings into action, heading for the steel steps of which he picks up half, before waiting as Shawn Michaels pulls himself away from the announce table … AND RIGHT INTO TRIPLE H, WHO RUNS STRAIGHT THROUGH HIS ENEMY WITH THE STEEL STEPS, GOING INTO THROUGH HIS SKULL!
Now bleeding everywhere, Triple H roars with intensity and throws the steel steps into the ring, before lifting the head of Shawn Michaels off the floor by the hair … to show him [COLOR= "RED "]
[/color] too now, the blood flowing onto the floor like a faucet. Like a shark, the blood sets Triple H off, prompting him to throw Shawn into the ring, then climb in after him and jump into a mount position so he can BARRAGE Michaels with hard right hand after hard right hand, driving further and further into the open wound of Michaels! With blood literally on his hands, 'The Game' gets back up and roars again, seemingly signalling for the end. With some assistance from the ropes, Shawn Michaels starts to pull himself up off the mat, before turning … AND BEING PUT IN POSITION FOR THE PEDIGREE AGAIN! Triple H starts to butterfly the arms … WHEN SHAWN MICHAELS SPINS OUT … BAM! SWEET CHIN MUSIC OUT OF NOWHERE! SHAWN MICHAELS NAILS TRIPLE H WITH SWEET CHIN MUSIC!
The crowd goes NUTS, looking on in awe as both men remain down after that shocking move. Unsurprisingly, Shawn Michaels is the one to make the first stir, slowly pulling himself towards 'The Game', before finally getting there and draping his arm across the chest of his enemy:
The Allstate Arena comes unglued for 'The Game', who narrowly avoids defeat at the last second. The one person in the Allstate Arena who isn't excited to see the match continue is Shawn Michaels, who rolls off Triple H with a mixture of agony and disappointment written all over his face. Despite wanting to finish his foe immediately, Michaels is still sluggish in getting back to his feet, although once he gets there he heads straight for the steel steps. The crowd looks on, having no idea what Michaels has in mind as he drags the steps across the mat towards Triple H, then waits as 'The Game' turns … before scooping him up … AND SLAMMING HIM DOWN RIGHT ON TOP OF THE STEEL STEPS! THE SPINE OF TRIPLE H BOUNCES OFF THE STEEL!
The crowd groans along with that one, feeling the pain of 'The Game' as Shawn staggers over to the corner … and goes to the top rope! Despite it failing twice already, Michaels heads up to the top rope gingerly, then looks down at Triple H … TO COME DOWN WITH AN ELBOW DROP … THAT CONNECTS! SHAWN MICHAELS DRIVES HIS ELBOW DOWN INTO THE HEART OF HIS FORMER BEST FRIEND, WHICH DRIVES THE BACK OF TRIPLE H EVEN FURTHER INTO THE STEEL!
Michaels fights through the pain to pop right back up too, heading across to the corner … TO BEGIN TO TOOT UP THE BAND! Michaels stomps his foot up and down, drawing nothing but boos from the crowd as Triple H falls off the steps. 'The Game' looks like going nowhere fast, though Michaels continues to wait, stomping his foot into the mat … until he suddenly holds his hand up, almost as if to tell the crowd to stop. Everyone looks on as Michaels stands still for a moment … before dropping down and rolling from the ring. No one is quite sure what 'The Heartbreak Kid' has in mind, other than 'HBK' himself, who walks around ringside, before coming to a – no, THE specific area to go under the ring and pull out … THE SLEDGEHAMMER!
The Allstate Arena shits all over Shawn Michaels as he stares deeply into the sledgehammer, almost in a trance as he looks at his own reflection. Shaking his head, Michaels snaps back into reality, then rolls into the ring and heads back the corner to wait, sledgehammer cocked, as Triple H slowly starts to struggle up. The crowd cannot stand it, shouting out words of warning to 'The Game' as he turns … RIGHT INTO A SLEDGEHAMMER SHOT FROM A CHARGING SHAWN MICHAELS … NO! TRIPLE H GRABS MICHAELS … AND DRILLS HIM WITH THE DOUBLE A SPINEBUSTER … ONTO THE STEEL STEPS! TRIPLE H DRIVES MICHAELS RIGHT DOWN INTO THE STEEL!
The crowd goes nuts as Michaels groans in pain, helpless on the steps, his hammer having fallen by the wayside as his old back injury appears to have rendered himself almost completely immobile. Triple H, who had fallen to his hands and knees, climbs back to his feet, and upon realising where Shawn is, decides it's time to end things once and for all! The crowd cheers as Triple H steps up to the top of the steel steps, then starts to pick Michaels up and position him … BUTTERFLYING THE ARMS … BEFORE LIFTING … AND DROPPING MICHAELS WITH THE PEDIGREE RIGHT ON TOP OF THE STEEL STEPS! TRIPLE H DRIVES THE FACE OF SHAWN MICHAELS DOWN INTO THE STEEL STEPS!
Shawn Michaels is most likely out cold, but 'The Game' isn't done yet … as he stops … TO LOOK AT THE SLEDGEHAMMER! The pop is massive as Trips climbs back to his feet and walks over to it, slowly bending over to lift the sledgehammer off the mat. Like Michaels before, Triple H stares deeply into the sledgehammer, the weapon that ended their friendship once and for all … before storming towards Michaels with it, deciding that it will now end Michaels' career! The crowd goes nuts as Triple H stands over his long-time rival Shawn Michaels, who remains face first down on the steel steps, unaware as 'The Game' looks down … RAISES THE SLEDGEHAMMER … THEN BRINGS IT DOWN ONTO THE HEAD OF MICHAELS, SCRAMBLING HIS BRAINS! SHAWN MICHAELS JUST HAD HIS HEAD SQUASHED BETWEEN THE SLEDGEHAMMER AND THE STEEL STEPS!
Triple H forcefully throws the smoking gun from the ring, then rolls his former best friend off the steel steps and hooks the leg:
Winner: Triple H via pinfall @ 24:51
Despite the match being over, no announcement is made from Lilian, who is perhaps in shock too at the events that we just witnessed. Both men remain down, Triple H draped across Shawn Michaels for a moment, before Triple H regains his footing a falls back on jelly legs into the corner.
Joey Styles:
I know … I know we knew it'd be violent … but that … that was something I never expected to see.
Jerry Lawler:
In all of my time in this business, I don't think I've seen anything … ANYTHING as violent as that.
Jonathan Coachman:
Someone … someone better check on Shawn Michaels.
Joey Styles:
Someone better check on Triple H too. Neither man … neither man is looking good, and, well, I guess we better take a look at this. It all started … with this.
We see the replay of the beginning of the match, when Shawn Michaels back body dropped Triple H off the stage.
Jerry Lawler:
But that wasn't all. In fact, it got worse from there very quickly.
Michaels goes diving off the stage with an elbow drop onto Triple H.
Jonathan Coachman:
Shawn Michaels put his body … his career on the line … and he almost appeared to end it multiple times throughout the match, although he almost ended Triple H's too.
Shawn Michaels is shown almost hanging Triple H with the steel chain.
Joey Styles:
Indeed, Shawn Michaels really stepped it up a notch, but it didn't pay off when he went to put Triple H through the announce table.
We see Shawn Michaels going for an elbow drop from the top turnbuckle onto Triple H on the announce table, only for Triple H to dodge, leaving Shawn to bounce off the table.
Joey Styles:
But the way that match ended, I don't think I've ever seen that brutal. Ladies and gentlemen, I suggest that if you're a little squeamish, you look away, because this … words don't do justice to what Triple H did to Shawn Michaels to end this, and perhaps indeed end Shawn Michaels.
We see the final shot, Triple H smashing the sledgehammer across the head of Michaels (at a very convenient camera angle, allowing it to be hit like a con-chair-to with the sledgehammer not actually connecting, for those of you freaking out), putting Michaels' lights out.
Back in the ring, the medics have suddenly rushed out with a couple of stretchers, moving Shawn Michaels body onto one. Triple H, however, refuses to be put on a stretcher, instead staggering away.
We now cut away to see a fairly lengthy video package covering the main points of the Hall of Fame ceremony, allowing enough time to clear the wreckage at ringside. After that, Howard Finkel announces the Hall of Famers, who come out onto the stage, with the biggest reception of all being saved for Vickie Guerrero (and how ironic that is today).
Moving on from there, we now move backstage … to see RANDY ORTON in his locker-room, slipping his elbow pad up his arm. Orton looks confident ahead of his match later tonight, smiling away.
We now cut back to ringside to see our RAW announce team sitting by.
Joey Styles:
Ladies and gentlemen, I know at this time, after what we just saw, it's going to be hard to move on, but that's exactly what we have to do, because up next it's the big one. The WWE Title is on the line as the champion Edge faces off against his challengers, John Cena and Kurt Angle. Let's take a look back at how Edge earned the ire of these two men.
We begin our footage with the imagine of John Cena, having just retained his WWE Title in the Elimination Chamber …
From there, things go into a haze for Cena, as Edge storms the ring and cashes in his Money in the Bank briefcase to pin John Cena and win, or as Joey Styles put it, "steal" the WWE Title.
Cutting forward from there, we see Edge standing in the ring the next night on RAW as I Dare You by Shinedown starts up.
Like it or not, I am your NEW WWE Champion.
"Let me introduce you to …"
Edge standing with the WWE Title.
"The characters …"
John Cena, looking shocked after losing the WWE Title at New Year's Revolution.
"In the show …"
Kurt Angle, having just lost the Royal Rumble Match.
"One says yes …"
John Cena:
You may have beat me, but I promise, I WILL win back my WWE Title.
"One says no …"
Kurt Angle:
You don't DESERVE the WWE Title.
"Decide – which voice in your head you can keep alive
Maybe in madness, I know you still believe
Paint me your canvas so I become
What you could never be"
Flashing shots of Edge, Cena and Angle hitting finishers on each other.
"I dare you to tell me to walk through the fire
Wear my soul and call me a liar"
John Cena:
Edge, I'm comin' for you.
Kurt Angle:
You can't run forever, Edge!
"I dare you to tell me to walk through the fire
I dare you to tell me
I dare you to"
I WILL retain MY title at WrestleMania 22!
"I dare you to …"
I Dare You suddenly cuts out … as we're speeding along the road to WrestleMania! The same road we travelled in the Saturday Night's Main Event video promo is used, as we speed along a highway, seeing all of the things that have gone done between these three men … finally stopping to see Kurt Angle.
Kurt Angle:
I dare you to get in this ring with me!
John Cena.
John Cena:
I dare you to put that title on the line.
And finally Edge.
I dare BOTH of you to beat me.
"I dare you to …"
Into the arena …
The crowd breaks out into an absolutely MASSIVE mixed reaction as out onto the stage charges JOHN CENA. Full of energy and life, Cena runs out to either side of the stage, before heading back to the middle of the ramp and pointing down to the ring.
Joey Styles:
It was twelve months ago that John Cena first won the WWE Championship by beating JBL in the main event of WrestleMania 21. After that, John Cena went on and put on a terrific reign, dominating Monday Night RAW until the WWE Title was stolen from him three months ago by Edge. Tonight Cena gets his best chance yet to get the gold back when he steps in the ring for this Triple Threat Match – simply put, can he get it done?
Jonathan Coachman:
get it done. He's that type of special superstar that you can never count out, like Ric Flair we saw earlier, but ia ya ask me, a Triple Threat Match doesn't favour him one bit. I'm sure John Cena would much rather be going one on one with Edge instead of being in a three way.
Jerry Lawler:
Well he'd obviously like to be going one on one if possible, but that doesn't mean Cena is necessarily disadvantaged. As we saw when he was champion, Cena has the ability to pull out that win when the stakes are high, and they don't get any higher than tonight.
Cena charges on down the ramp, sliding up into the ring to spring back to his feet and recognise the crowd. While the crowd aren't quite as receptive, Cena tosses his hat out onto them, keeping the shirt for now.
The crowd now gives a completely positive reaction as KURT ANGLE storms out onto the stage. His intensity at a high, Angle bellows out to the crowd, letting them know that he believes he's going to win the WWE Title here tonight.
Joey Styles:
Just like John Cena, Kurt Angle will come into tonight feeling he deserves a shot at the WWE Title one on one, having been denied at the Royal Rumble thanks in part to Edge attacking him backstage. While he can't get him one on one tonight, Angle did this past Monday on RAW, and while Edge picked up a controversial win, you have to feel like there was enough there to say that Angle could well walk out of WrestleMania as the new WWE Champion tonight.
Jerry Lawler:
Kurt Angle will feel he deserves it tonight too. He has been on a journey for the past eight months here chasing the WWE Title, and if he could capture it tonight at WrestleMania, he would have to feel it would all be worth it.
Jonathan Coachman:
The problem for Angle is that for those past eight months, Angle has been losing chance after chance. What does that mean for him tonight? Personally, I can't see him winning.
After throwing his arms up in the air and setting off the red, white and blue pyro on the ramp, Angle climbs up into the ring to join Cena, waiting on the final piece of the puzzle.
Heat now absolutely fills the arena as smoke fills the entranceway, ahead of the WWE CHAMPION, EDGE making his way onto the stage, his girlfriend LITA on his arm. Stopping at the top of the ramp, Edge takes in the atmosphere, before looking down at the WWE Title on his waist and walking down the ramp.
Joey Styles:
Monday Night RAW in 2006 thus far has been Rated R. Having won the title at the very start of the year, Edge has held the title all the way through to now, and has promised that he will continue to do so after tonight, declaring this as 'The Rated R Era'. Gentlemen, is 'The Rated R Era' truly upon us?
Jerry Lawler:
Well if Edge wins tonight, then you'd have to think that he would go a LONG way to making this his year. While he hasn't been conventional, we've seen the ratings, and Edge is the most watched champion of the past five years, further backing up his claim.
Jonathan Coachman:
Joe, I've been sayin' it all along. 'The Rated R Era' is upon us, and if he didn't make you a believer by beating Kurt Angle this past week on RAW, then he's gonna do it again tonight at WrestleMania.
Edge makes his way down the rest of the ramp, then slides into the ring and starts to show off his WWE Title, while Lita just remains on the apron. The bell then sounds, and Lilian Garcia takes up centre stage.
Lilian Garcia:
The following contest is a Triple Threat Match, and it is for the WWE CHAAAMMMMPIONSHIP! Introducing first, from WEEESSSSTT NEWBURY, MASSACHUSETTS, weighing 245 lbs, he is a former United States and WWE Champion, JJJOOOHHHHNNNN CCCCCEEEEEEENNNAAAA!
A huge mixed reaction as Cena peels his shirt off, then throws it out to the crowd, getting them excited.
Lilian Garcia:
Next, from PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA, weighing 225 lbs, he is a former King of the Ring, European, Intercontinental, Tag Team, World Heavyweight, and WWE Champion, and the ONLY Olympic Gold Medallist in WWE history, KUURRRTTTT ANNNGGGGLLLLEEEE!
Angle throws his arms up in the air and roars with intensity, drawing a HUGE pop.
Lilian Garcia:
And finally, from TORRRRRONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA, weighing 245 lbs, he is a former King of the Ring, Intercontinental, United States and Tag Team Champion … the reigning and defending W – W – E CHAAAAMPION … EEEDDDDGGGGEEEE!
Edge now throws his arms up in the air, then disposes of his title and ring jacket as Lilian heads from the ring.
WWE Championship; Triple Threat Match:
John Cena
Kurt Angle
Edge ©
The crowd buzzes in anticipation, as all three men stand in the ring, finally ready to go at it. For both John Cena and Kurt Angle, there is a look of steely determination burning in their eyes. The want, the desire, the need to become WWE Champion is clear for them as they stand back in the corner, looking calm yet focused. Edge, on the other hand, looks the complete opposite. Despite all of his bragging leading up to the match, the reigning and defending WWE Champion looks to be a nervous wreck, standing halfway between the two corners on the other side of the ring to Angle and Cena, his hands outstretched and shaking, while his eyes dart back and forth between his two opponents. The three men remain still, at least for now, basking in the chants, the cries of Chicago crowd … before Kurt Angle and John Cena catch sight of one another! Angle and Cena turn their heads to look into the eyes of one another … and then turn to Edge! The crowd erupts, wanting to see Edge getting his comeuppance just as much Angle and Cena wish to distribute it for the months and months of Edge taking cheap shots, then running away.
The eyes of 'The Rated R Superstar' go into overload, dancing everywhere as his hands continue to shake, watching as Angle and Cena start to advance upon him. Not wanting to make a move in case he makes a false one, Edge does nothing but watch as Angle and Cena continue to bear down on him, getting closer and closer to getting their hands on the WWE Champion … when he drops down and rolls from the ring! The crowd shits all over the tactics of 'The Rated R Superstar', but he sure as hell doesn't care, smiling away and telling the crowd "That's why I'm the WWE Champion!" Turning back to the ring, Edge sees both of his opponents with their eyes still locked on him, clearly wanting to get at him. Edge though, insists they go at it, waving his hands around and telling them to begin the match, and that he'll get involved later. Angle and Cena, however, are sick of Edge running away from them. They've spent months chasing him, and they want to get their hands on him now … leading to them both dropping down and sliding to the floor on opposite sides of the ring!
The crowd goes nuts as the eyes of Edge once again dart back and forth, unsure of what to do as both men slowly start to creep around ringside … when Edge suddenly makes a bolt for it! The WWE Champion slides into the ring, then looks to charge across to the other side of it and slide out … but he's caught by the legs! Edge was almost free, only for Angle and Cena to slide back into the ring in time, each man catching him by a leg. Edge shakes his head manically, crying "NO! NO! NO!" in desperation … only for Angle and Cena to pull him back to the middle of the ring! Both of the challengers let go of Edge now and surround him, making sure there's no escape route. Edge, still down on the mat, glances around desperately, wanting ever so badly to find a way out … before climbing back to his feet and making a run for it … BAM! Edge runs right into a right hand from John Cena!
The crowd goes crazy with cheers, but it doesn't get any better for Edge, who turns from the Cena shot … BAM! Right into one from Kurt Angle! Edge turns again … BAM! Right into another shot from John Cena … SNAP! Kurt Angle this time connects with a European uppercut, sending Edge's neck snapping back … to turn right into another shot from John Cena … and then another European uppercut from Kurt Angle … right hand from John Cena … European uppercut from Kurt Angle … right hand from Cena … European uppercut from Angle … right hand from Cena … European uppercut from Angle … right hand … European uppercut … right hand … European uppercut … right hand … and European uppercut! Edge FINALLY falls to the mat, having taken a mighty beating already, just a couple of minutes into the match.
Kurt Angle quickly looks to continue their work though, lifting Edge up and pressing him back into the ropes to send him off with an Irish whip, before scoring with a knee lift that DRIVES into the midsection of the WWE Champion! 'The Rated R Superstar' splutters for air on the mat … when he's suddenly grabbed by the hair, run across the ring and thrown clean over the top rope by John Cena, landing on the cold, hard concrete floor with a MASSIVE thud! The crowd cheers as Edge is disposed of, leaving Angle and Cena alone in the ring, with no immediate threat to worry about for now. The two rivals know it too, turning slowly towards one another to lock eyes, before slowly beginning to circle around the ring. That special WrestleMania atmosphere, the electricity is in the air as these two warriors make their way around the ring to duelling chants of "LET'S GO CENA! LET'S GO ANGLE! LET'S GO CENA! LET'S GO ANGLE! LET'S GO CENA! LET'S GO ANGLE!" Neither even acknowledge the chants though, at least not for now, as instead they both wear masks of determination, both wanting to do their utmost to become WWE Champion.
The two brave gladiators continue to circle the ring, not going at any great pace, rather just sizing each other up, before stepping forward, looking one another in the eyes, and engaging in our first lockup of the match! The crowd gives a great pop as both men struggle around, jostling for position, neither able to get an immediate edge. Eventually it is Cena who is able to utilise his superior size and strength to start to bully Kurt around a bit, forcing him back towards the corner … when suddenly Angle drops out of the lockup and goes low, grabbing at the legs of Cena to trip him up. Angle, showing off his amateur wrestling prowess, quickly floats across from there into a waistlock, before going one step further and gliding across the back of Cena to grab a front face lock.
The crowd cheers, showing their appreciation for Angle's skills in chain wrestling. Cena, however, doesn't want to show Angle any love at this stage, beginning to fight back to his feet … when he takes the arm of Angle, spins it around, then pulls Kurt Angle into a side headlock! A mixed reaction from the crowd as Cena shows some of his skills too, though Kurt Angle is soon on it, pressing back against the ropes to push Cena off. The former WWE Champion is sent charging across the ring, before bouncing back and STEAMROLLING Kurt Angle with a big time shoulder tackle! Cena glances down at Angle, a steely look in his eyes, before now running off to the ropes again. Angle drops down flat on his belly, allowing Cena to jump over him on the rebound and continue on to the opposite set of ropes … before Angle springs up and looks for a hip toss on the rebound … no! Cena blocks it, causing Angle to struggle, doing all he can to try to take Cena over … when Cena suddenly reverses things and scores with a hip toss of his own!
Cena quickly dives down into the first cover of the match:
Angle kicks out early, pushing Cena off of him!
Both men are right back to their feet, with Cena grabbing a side headlock as quick as a flash, before taking Angle down and grounding him in the headlock. Angle flails his arms around a bit, frustrated to be met with the familiar story of Cena outdoing him in a match … when he's suddenly caught napping with his shoulders against the mat:
No! Angle rolls his shoulder up off the mat!
Looking for an escape, 'The Wrestling Machine' once again begins to flail his arms about in the air, before starting to fight up to his feet, gaining a vertical base and once again pressing Cena back against the ropes to push him off. Cena runs across to the other side of the ring, looking to hit the ropes hard … when he's suddenly tripped up from the outside by 'The Rated R Superstar' Edge! Right in front of his girlfriend Lita, the champion pulls Cena from the ring … then HURLS him into the crowd barrier, sending the back of his neck and his spine SLAMMING into the barely covered steel with a THUD! Happy with his doing, the WWE Champion smiles away to himself … before turning to the ring to see two boots come and SLAM right into his face, courtesy of a Kurt Angle baseball slide! Edge goes down to his hands and knees, and Kurt Angle is right on it, climbing out to the floor to lift Edge up by the hair, then SLAM his face down into the crowd barrier. The crowd cheers as Angle warns an approaching Lita off, stopping her in her tracks, before dragging Edge around ringside by the hair to again SLAM his face down into the crowd barrier.
This time Edge falls back against the barrier, looking awfully groggy … thus allowing Kurt Angle to absolutely tee off on him! The Royal Rumble runner-up just plain snaps on the WWE Champion, DRILLING him with right hand after right hand, knowing that there are no disqualifications and no count outs in the match. This leaves Edge at the mercy of his angered enemy, who continues to LAMBAST him with right hand shots, hitting him time and time again … before pulling him from the corner … and Irish whipping him … SENDING THE WWE CHAMPION TO CRASH INTO THE STEEL STEPS, CAUSING A HUGE RUCKUS!
The crowd again cheers the intensity of Kurt Angle as he quickly follows up, grabbing Edge to roll him into the ring, then follow along himself to make the cover:
Edge springs his shoulder up off the mat, keeping his title safe!
Angle is quick to look to go back to business, trying to grab Edge on the way up, although Edge is quick to scurry away, heading for the corner. Angle follows him in, looking to grab him by the hair … when Edge suddenly scores with a poke right to the eye of his opponent! The crowd boos the cowardly actions of the WWE Champion, who turns the tables, pressing Angle back into the corner, before beginning to rain down on him with some STIFF right hands, looking to make up for before. Unfortunately for Edge, he can't possibly score with the ferocity of Angle's shots due to his dizziness, but he does the best he can to scramble Angle's brains, before sending him off with an Irish whip … no, Angle reverses and sends Edge in! 'The Wrestling Machine' is quick to follow Edge in too … allowing him to SQUASH Edge in the corner with a corner clothesline! The WWE Champion comes staggering out of the corner on jelly legs … right into the clutches of Kurt Angle, who wraps his arms around Edge … then sends him FLYING with a beautiful belly to belly suplex!
The crowd cheers as Edge lands right on his spine, arching his back in pain, before battling back to his feet … to turn right into Kurt Angle … who grabs him, then sends him over with another beautiful belly to belly suplex! The WWE Champion is sent flying through the air and crashing down to the mat a second time, causing him to again nurse his back as he gets back up … and turns into Kurt Angle … WHO DELIVERS A THIRD STRAIGHT BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX! Angle jumps on the cover, hooking the leg:
Edge is able to kick out of the pinfall attempt!
The champion looks to head to the corner and escape on his way back to his feet, but once again Kurt Angle is all over him, grabbing him by the hair to stop him, before SNAPPING him back to the corner with a European uppercut. Angle then looks to follow Edge in … walking right into a boot to the midsection. Edge looks to take advantage of the momentary respite, HAMMERING Angle with some right hands … only for Angle to duck one … THEN SEND EDGE CRASHING OVER WITH A GERMAN SUPLEX! Angle roars with intensity as Edge flops across to the opposite corner, prompting Angle to charge in again … but this time Edge sidesteps Angle, leaving him to crash into the turnbuckle chest first! Angle turns, resting against the turnbuckle … ONLY FOR EDGE TO THEN DRIVE HIS SHOULDER THROUGH ANGLE'S MIDSECTION WITH A CORNER SPEAR! Angle comes staggering out of the corner, doubled over as Edge runs over to the ropes … then bounces back and just plain BOOTS Angle's head off!
'The Wrestling Machine' rolls from the ring, falling to the outside area just as John Cena begins to slide back into the ring. Unfortunately for Cena, that's as far as he gets, as Edge spots him, then charges across and begins to stomp on him. Feeling he's sufficiently weakened Cena, Edge now sends him into the corner … THEN CHARGES IN TO SQUASH HIM WITH A CORNER SPEAR! Just like before with Angle, Edge rushes off to the ropes as Cena staggers out of the corner … then comes back to deliver a STIFF boot to the side of the head! Cena, unlike Angle, only falls to the ropes, allowing Edge a moment to pose, gaining some incredible heat from the crowd, before pulling Cena back into the centre of the ring to make a cover:
Cena gets his shoulder up off the mat!
Despite the kickout, Edge isn't too fussed, only glancing at the referee before going back to work on Cena, booting him in the midsection to send him back to the corner. Edge looks to continue with boots, but as Cena falls back, the champion catches the glazed over look in Cena's eyes, and, perhaps remembering the con-chair-to he delivered to Cena a few weeks ago, suddenly finds himself a new focus. Cena isn't ready to defend himself too quickly either, allowing Edge to open up on Cena, SMASHING him with some big right hands to the head, looking to do as much damage as possible. As mentioned before, this match has no disqualifications too, meaning Edge is free to hit Cena in the corner as much as he likes, and he takes advantage of that, continuing his onslaught until Cena finally starts to slide down the turnbuckle. Edge again turns to taunt the crowd, drawing great heat, before grabbing Cena out of the corner and setting him up for a suplex. The WWE Champion hoists one of his challengers up in the air … but rather than drop him immediately, the champion instead holds the challenger up! The blood rushes to Cena's already dizzy head, as Edge shows some strength we haven't seen from him in a while, holding Cena up for an extremely long time … before dropping him on his back with the suplex! Edge again makes a quick cover:
No! Cena again gets his shoulder up, though this kickout appears to have taken more of an effect on him!
The former WWE Champion weakly tries to roll away, but he's not going anywhere fast, allowing Edge to STOMP at his head a few times, before Cena finally gets to the ropes. This doesn't stop Edge though – in fact, it encourages him, as 'The Rated R Superstar' drapes Cena across the second rope, then PRESSES into the back of his neck, using the second rope to essentially choke him! The crowd boos the tactics of the champion who, quite frankly, couldn't give a damn, only releasing the move to run off to the opposite ropes and bounce back … LAUNCHING himself right into the back of Cena's neck! Cena falls away to the middle of the ring as Angle climbs up onto the apron, prompting Edge to strike Angle with a right hand that knocks him down, then make the cover on Cena:
No! Cena is again able to get his shoulder up without getting too close to being pinned for the three!
Meanwhile, Edge is starting to perhaps get a little annoyed with the kickouts, glancing at the referee angrily, before deciding that if he can't pin Cena, he'll force him to submit, locking in a sleeper hold. With the oxygen struggling to get to his already airy head, Cena struggles a bit at first, flailing his arms, before starting to fall away. The crowd starts to get behind Cena though, and with their support he manages to start to rally, pumping his arm as he starts to climb back to a vertical base. It's at this time that Edge starts to panic, changing into a side headlock to try to smother Cena, only for Cena to press back against the ropes, then use the momentum coming off them to push Edge … shoving him right into a rising Kurt Angle! Angle is sent tumbling from the apron, leaving Edge groggy as he turns … right into a flying shoulder tackle from Cena! Edge gets back to his feet … and receives another flying shoulder tackle! The crowd goes nuts as Cena runs straight through him with a couple of clotheslines next, before Edge himself swings wildly for a clothesline … BUT CENA DUCKS IT, THEN LAYS EDGE OUT WITH THE PROTOPLEX! Edge is down in the centre of the ring, prompting Cena to look out to the crowd … "YOU CAN'T SEE ME!"
The former champion runs off to the ropes, then bounces back … FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE CONNECTS! The crowd goes crazy as Edge rolls around on the mat, Cena setting himself … WHEN HE'S GRABBED FROM BEHIND … AND TAKEN OVER WITH A GERMAN SUPLEX BY KURT ANGLE … WHO KEEPS HIS GRIP LOCKED! Angle fights through the pain he's suffering to hoist Cena up … SECOND GERMAN SUPLEX! The crowd looks on in anticipation as Angle now lifts Cena up once more … AND THROWS HIM OVERHEAD WITH THE THIRD GERMAN SUPLEX, THIS TIME A RELEASE! Angle quickly jumps on Cena to hook the leg:
Angle can't believe it, questioning referee Earl Hebner to make sure it was only two, before climbing back to his feet … AND SQUATTING DOWN, PREPARED TO FINISH CENA OFF ONCE AND FOR ALL! Slowly but surely, Cena starts to struggle on the mat … EDGE-O-MATIC! EDGE COMES FROM BEHIND ANGLE AND DELIVERS THE EDGE-O-MATIC! The WWE Champion makes the cover:
The crowd cheers as Edge pulls his hair back, making sure the count from the referee was correct, before looking around to see that Cena has now rolled from the ring, leaving him alone in the ring with Angle … PROMPTING HIM TO HEAD FOR THE CORNER! The crowd boos as Edge squats down, waiting as Angle starts to get up … AND EDGE CHARGES … SPEAR … NO! ANGLE SLAM! ANGLE SLAM! ANGLE SCORES WITH THE ANGLE SLAM! Kurt Angle hooks the leg:
Again, Angle takes a moment to question the referee … before turning to Edge … AND THROWING THE STRAPS DOWN! The crowd goes wild as Angle stomps around … THEN GRABS EDGE BY THE ANKLE … ANKLE LOCK … NO! EDGE ROLLS THROUGH, SENDING KURT ANGLE OFF! Angle climbs back to his feet and charges at Edge, looking for a clothesline, only for Edge to duck … EDGE-O-MATIC … NO! Angle spins out of it … ANGLE SLAM … NO! Edge lands behind Angle, turns him around and boots him in the midsection … BEFORE CONNECTING WITH THE EDGECUTION! EDGE SPIKES KURT ANGLE ON HIS HEAD! Edge hooks the leg:
CENA HAS THE STF-U LOCKED IN! The crowd again goes ballistic, looking on as Cena gets the man who stole the WWE Title from him in the STF-U … WHEN LITA CLIMBS UP ONTO THE APRON! The crowd boos as Lita takes the attention of Cena, causing him to release his hold on Edge and go to mouth off at her. Lita just won't go away though, continuing to stay on the apron until Cena eventually turns … SPEAR! EDGE RUNS STRAIGHT THROUGH JOHN CENA WITH THE SPEAR, MEANING HE IS GOING TO STEAL THE WWE TITLE AGAIN! Edge makes the cover:
ANGLE GRABS THE ANKLE LOCK! Lita quickly panics, jumping on the apron … WHEN EDGE ROLLS THROUGH … SENDING ANGLE INTO LITA! LITA IS SENT CRASHING TO THE FLOOR! An irate Edge can't believe it, climbing to his feet to charge at Angle and go for a clothesline, but Angle ducks … THEN ANGLE SLAMS EDGE OVER THE TOP ROPE AND OUT TO THE FLOOR! EDGE IS DOWN AND OUT! After taking a moment to talk some trash to Edge, Angle turns to see Cena starting to struggle up in the ring, prompting him to set himself … THEN SPRING WITH THE ANGLE SLAM … NO! Cena slips out the back door … THEN GETS ANGLE UP WHEN HE TURNS … F-U! CENA HITS THE F-U! John Cena makes the cover:
The crowd gives a HUGE mixed response as Cena rolls off the cover, looking at referee Earl Hebner in shock. Hebner tells him it's only two though, prompting Cena to get back to his feet … AND GRAB ANGLE'S LEG FOR THE STF-U … NO! Angle rolls through … GRABBING CENA'S LEG FOR THE ANKLE LOCK … NO! Cena rolls through, sending Angle flipping away. Angle is quick to get back to his feet and charge back though … right into a drop toe hold … STF-U! THE STF-U IS IN! The crowd goes nuts as Cena pulls back on the head of Kurt Angle, bending his neck out of shape while the crowd screams numerous things out to him. Angle must feel like he's all alone in the ring though, his dreams of becoming WWE Champion caught in the hold that thwarted him in his plight to become WWE Champion so many times in 2005. For Angle, tapping out simply CANNOT be an option, meaning he fight, he must CLAW his way to the ropes, looking to carry Cena's weight with him. Bit by bit he gets closer, but with each second the pain seems to be even greater, causing him to finally lift his hand in the air …
… AND DECIDE AGAINST TAPPING! Angle fights it … AND HE MAKES IT TO THE BOTTOM ROPE!
The crowd gives a great pop as Angle hugs the bottom rope, forcing Cena to break the hold. Having thrown everything he can at his long-time rival, John Cena is now left to look around and wonder what to do next … when he suddenly looks to the corner! It's a rarity in John Cena matches, but knowing what's on the line, Cena has decided to go to the top rope! The crowd looks on as Cena slowly heads out to the apron, then, even more slowly, makes his way up to the somewhat unfamiliar territory of the top rope, balancing himself up there … WHEN KURT ANGLE SPRINGS TO LIFE AND RUNS UP THE CORNER, JOINING CENA … TO SCORE WITH A SUPER ANGLE SLAM! ANGLE PLANTS CENA WITH THE TOP ROPE ANGLE SLAM IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING! CENA IS SURELY DONE!
Knowing he just has to make the cover, Angle gets back to his feet … SPEAR! EDGE RUNS RIGHT THROUGH KURT ANGLE WITH THE SPEAR OUT OF NOWHERE! The WWE Champion gets to his feet and sees that the coast is clear to pin Cena, leading to him doing so:
Winner (and STILL WWE Champion): Edge via pinfall @ 21:19
Lilian Garcia:
Here is your winner, and STILLLLLL the W – W – E CHAMPIIIIOOONNN, EDDDGGGEEEE!
The crowd can't believe it, remaining silent at first, before then unloading with a phenomenal amount of heat, absolutely tearing into him. Edge couldn't give a damn though, clutching at his WWE Title as he rolls from the ring and backs up the ramp, a hurting Lita by his side.
Joey Styles:
Edge has done it again! Edge has stolen yet another victory, but by hook or crook, Edge has accomplished what he set out to do. Edge he retained his title here tonight at WrestleMania!
Jonathan Coachman:
I told you guys. I told you all along that 'The Rated R Era' was upon us, and you didn't believe me. Well now you have no choice to believe me, because that man just walked out of WrestleMania as he came in – as the WWE Champion.
Jerry Lawler:
[color="Red"]I have to admit, despite his mode of victory, that was a big win for Edge. Who knows – this 'Rated R Era' may well be upon us. What I do know is that Edge has just successfully defended his title on the grandest stage of 'em all.
We linger on Edge backing up the ramp victorious for just a moment later, letting the moment sink in.
We see sweeping scenes of a road.
For years we've heard of the journey towards WrestleMania …
More sweeping shots, cutting back and forth quickly.
The path the superstars travel down …
Shots of a bright city seem to begin flashing in as we continue to look along the road.
But what if we really did travel down that road?
The shots of the city landscape become more prominent.
What if we really did speed on to our destination?
Again, the flashing shots across the screen of the city landscape become EVEN MORE prominent.
What if … we
our way there?
We now finish our trip along the highway, seeing the landscape of Detroit, Michigan.
The Motor City better get ready …
Flashing shots of Ford Field now.
Because the granddaddy of 'em all is coming to town … and it's gonna be one heck of a wild ride.
WrestleMania 23 – Ford Field; Detroit, Michigan – April 1st, 2007
We now cut back into the backstage area … to see ROB VAN DAM pacing down a corridor, ready for action.
Joey Styles:
WrestleMania 23 will indeed be at the Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan, but ladies and gentlemen, up next, here comes Rob Van Dam, and he will be challenging The Undertaker. It's RVD vs. the streak next here at WrestleMania!
The video package begins showing some shots of Rob Van Dam in a dark room.
Rob Van Dam:
My whole life I've been known as the greatest superstar to never win the big one … some people may find that a compliment. They may say that says how good you are, but to me … to me that's an insult. That reminds me that I haven't yet won the big one. That reminds me that I want to win the big one. That reminds me that I
to win the big one … I
a world title.
We rotate around RVD, seeing shots of him from numerous sides.
Rob Van Dam:
When I came back from my layoff earlier this year in the Royal Rumble, I thought that was my shot. I thought that was my chance to earn myself a world title shot, to try to elevate me to greatness … but it didn't happen … I fell short.
We see The Undertaker eliminating RVD from the Royal Rumble.
Rob Van Dam:
Do I hold a grudge against The Undertaker for eliminating me from the Royal Rumble? No, of course not. He was just doing what he needed to try to win … exactly what I was doing at No Way Out to make an impact.
RVD is shown coming from nowhere at Saturday Night's Main Event to hit The Undertaker with a flying thrust kick, before the Five Star Frog Splash led to JBL defeating The Undertaker.
Rob Van Dam:
What I did to The Undertaker was nothing personal … it was just, as corny as it may sound, business. I have to get rid of the tag as the greatest wrestler to never win a world title somehow, and since I can't do it at WrestleMania by winning a world title, how about I change my tag and become the man to end … the streak?
RVD is shown looking up and smirking.
Rob Van Dam:
Do I think I can win? Of course I can.
We now cut away to see The Undertaker, shrouded in smoke and darkness.
The Undertaker:
At thirteen WrestleManias, in thirteen matches, there have been thirteen souls that I have vanquished at WrestleMania. Each thought they could beat me. Each thought they could bring something different. Each thought they could challenge 'The Phenom' … but they were wrong … dead wrong. So what makes RVD any different?
We now see RVD and 'Taker standing nose to nose in the ring.
The Undertaker:
I may not be able to psyche RVD out … I may not be able to scare him, but I guarantee, I
beat him, and like all of the others, come WrestleMania he will …
Rob Van Dam:
Come WrestleMania, I will …
The Undertaker:
Rest …
Rob Van Dam:
End …
The Undertaker:
In …
Rob Van Dam:
The …
The Undertaker:
Rob Van Dam:
The image of The Undertaker and RVD nose to nose fades away.
Howard Finkel stands by in the ring as the bell sounds in the background.
Howard Finkel:
The following contest is the INTEEERRRRBRAND SPECTACUUULAAARRR, and it is scheduled for one fall!
The crowd gives a great pop as ROB VAN DAM wastes no time, kicking his music of quickly and striding out onto the stage. Not looking at all overawed by the moment, RVD talks to the crowd on the way down the ramp, basking in the joy of being in the WrestleMania spotlight.
Howard Finkel:
Introducing first, representing MMMMOOONNNDAY NIGHT RAW, from BATTLE CREEK, MICHIGAN, weighing 235 lbs, 'MR. MONDAY NIGHT' ROOOBBBB VVVAAANNN DDDDAAAMMM!
Another pop as RVD stops to his classic thumb taunt along with the fans, before continuing his way on down the ramp.
Michael Cole:
Well gentlemen, the time has come for the Interbrand Spectacular, and while a lot of people have got to feel like this guy has no chance, despite being from RAW, RVD has impressed the heck out of me in recent weeks, really taking the fight to The Undertaker. Is there a chance that tonight, RVD could by the man to end the streak?
Jonathan Coachman:
Are you mocking us on purpose over there, Cole? Sheesh, get some class. This is gonna be embarrassing.
Jerry Lawler:
Don't mind 'Coach', he's just a little grumpy because … well, quite frankly, I don't know why he's that way, but what I do know is that what you said is correct, Michael. RVD HAS really taken it to The Undertaker over the past few weeks, laying him out TWICE in the past week. If anyone can end the streak, then Rob Van Dam may just be that man.
RVD continues his way down the ramp, then rolls into the ring. Looking comfortable ahead of his match, RVD raises his hands in the air and spins around to face all quadrants of the crowd, before waiting …
The reaction from the crowd is nothing short of breathtaking as the lights go out and smoke fills the arena, leading to the arrival of THE UNDERTAKER. Clad in his coat and hat, like always, the dark, ominous figure of The Undertaker walks down the ramp slowly, headed to the ring.
Howard Finkel:
His opponent, representing FFFRRRRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOOOWWWWNNNN!, from DEATH VALLEY, weighing 305 lbs, THEEEEEEEE UNDEEERRRRTAAAKKKKKEERRRR!
Another great pop rings through the arena as The Undertaker slowly makes his way down the ramp, taking his time.
Joey Styles:
Here comes, quite frankly, the scariest man that this sport has ever seen, although I find it curious that, unlike last year at WrestleMania, The Undertaker is playing no mind games with RVD, perhaps acknowledging that he can't get in his head.
Well we heard 'The Deadman' say before that he didn't think he could get in the head of RVD, but all the same, 'The Deadman' says he will STILL beat RVD here tonight, and I gotta agree with that. The man, quite simply, is unbeatable at WrestleMania.
'The Phenom' slowly makes his way down the rest of the ramp, then lifts the darkness and climbs up into the ring to remove his coat and hat. RVD, meanwhile, looks ready and raring to go in this match.
Interbrand Spectacular; Singles Match:
Rob Van Dam
The Undertaker
The sound of the bell ringing throughout the Allstate Arena can barely be heard due to the noise of the crowd buzzing, looking at these two superstars standing in opposing corners. The underdog, RVD, bounces up and down on his feet, showing he's ready and full of life, while The Undertaker remains as calm as ever, watching Van Dam intently. As the two men continue to look at one another and prepare themselves, booming duel chants arise from the crowd – "R – V – D! UN – DER – TAKER! R – V – D! UN – DER – TAKER! R – V – D! UN – DER – TAKER!" This does not faze 'The Phenom', who remains perfectly still, used to this type of big match atmosphere. RVD, however, cannot help but show a hint of a grin, perhaps showing how relaxed he is feeling, despite the fact that he is in the ring with The Undertaker at WrestleMania. The two continue to stand back in their corners, allowing the crowd to continue their chants … before they suddenly rush forward and go face to face in the centre of the ring!
The response from the crowd is nothing short of huge as these two fan favourites stand toe to toe, face to face, nose to nose in the very middle of the ring at WrestleMania, neither showing a hint of fear. The electricity runs through the air as the two men remain still … until The Undertaker does his classic throat slashing motion! This sends the crowd into an absolute rapture, with the chants for 'The Phenom' breaking back out. RVD, however, stands his ground and smirks, refusing to be intimidated … before doing his thumb classic thumb taunt, bringing about the chant of "R – V - D!" once again. The crowd continues to cheer as Van Dam holds his arms out, letting The Undertaker know that he's not at all scared … prompting The Undertaker to start the action by scoring with a kick to the midsection!
Quick as a flash, 'The Phenom' grabs a side headlock, though RVD is up to the task, just as quickly getting himself back free by pushing off the ropes and using the momentum to push The Undertaker away. This doesn't work out too well for Van Dam though, as the bigger frame of The Undertaker comes into play when he rebounds off the ropes and powers straight through RVD with a shoulder tackle. With his opponent down, 'The Deadman' dashes back off to the ropes, then bounces back to leap over Van Dam, who lies flat on his belly. 'The Phenom' comes back to again bounce over Van Dam, who is doing the splits this time … before rebounding back into a monkey flip from 'Mr. Pay-Per-View', showing just how powerful the legs of RVD are!
The Undertaker is quick to get up by the ropes, looking at his rising opponent with wide eyes, perhaps taken off guard, having thought he had already gained some early control of the match. The smile on RVD's faces is gone now too, replaced by a look of total concentration as he gets himself in his fighting stance. 'The Phenom' too gets in his fighting stance, raising his hands up, before coming forward, looking to come at RVD. 'Mr. Monday Night' takes a bit more of a cautious approach here, moving quickly on his feet back and forth to try to make sure he avoids any shots from The Undertaker. Bit by bit though, The Undertaker closes down on him, getting closer to RVD with each step, causing Van Dam to start to back away. 'The Deadman' keeps this going, eventually getting his opponent almost cornered, prompting him to now go in for a right hand shot … but RVD is too quick, ducking out of the corner with ease to head back to the centre of the ring.
The Undertaker turns with a look of surprise on his face, thinking he had RVD trapped. Still, 'The Phenom' sticks to his game plan, raising his gloves up into the air so he can advance on RVD. Like before, Van Dam shows how light he is on his feet, moving quickly as The Undertaker approaches, although he is once again forced back by the overbearing size of 'The Phenom'. Eventually 'Taker gets RVD back all of the way to the corner again, before looking for a right hand shot … but Van Dam again ducks out of the way and skips back to the middle of the ring! A look of frustration rather than surprise grips The Undertaker this time, knowing that he has been upstaged by the speed of RVD not once, but twice now. Despite this, 'The Deadman' once more puts up the fighting stance, going with what brought him to the dance. RVD continues to move around, ducking and dodging The Undertaker until 'The Phenom' comes forward, sending him back to the corner so he can take a shot … but Van Dam ducks out, then strikes The Undertaker with a stinging kick to the hamstring this time!
The Undertaker hops in pain, the feeling of RVD's boot slamming into his leg clearly not feeling too nice. Perhaps content with having sent a message, RVD now stands back, allowing The Undertaker some time to stretch his leg out and recover. Feeling a little flustered, 'The Phenom' immediately tries to rock RVD with a right hand when he turns, although RVD is equal to the task, ducking under it. 'Taker is quick to turn back to him, looking for another right, although this time RVD kicks his foot away! The Undertaker shakes his hand in pain, leaving himself open as RVD now UNLOADS with a quick series of kicks to the legs and ribs of 'The Phenom', absolutely going to town on him. 'The Deadman' is totally stunned, looking almost defenceless after the series, which RVD now tops off, striking with a spin kick to the chest that sends The Undertaker falling back against the ropes.
RVD looks to immediately take advantage of the precarious positioning of The Undertaker, sending him off with an Irish whip, before going for a spinning heel kick on the rebound … but The Undertaker ducks! 'The Phenom' comes back off the ropes with a lot of momentum … to run right into a kick to the head from Van Dam! RVD drops down and hooks the leg:
No! The Undertaker kicks out of the pin attempt relatively comfortably!
RVD isn't discouraged by the kickout though, going right back to work as he follows a struggling 'Phenom' right into the corner to continue his onslaught of kicks, this time softening up the midsection of his opponent by repeatedly DRIVING his boot into it. RVD finally backs off at the count of four, as instructed by referee Chad Patton, before coming in and attempting an Irish whip into the opposite corner that The Undertaker is able to reverse. Sensing this may be his time to take control of the match, The Undertaker charges in after Van Dam … to run right into a raised boot! The Undertaker is further stunned by this, staggering away, allowing RVD to dash off to the ropes, then come back with a spinning heel kick that SMACKS right into the jaw of 'The Deadman', sending him rolling along the mat to the ropes. The Undertaker takes advantage of his positioning by using the ropes to lift himself up … only for RVD to charge in and clothesline him up over the top rope, out to the floor!
The crowd gives a great pop as RVD comes back to the centre of the ring and looks around, waiting as The Undertaker starts to struggle up, before running off to the opposite ropes … AND COMING BACK TO JUMP CLEAN OVER THE TOP ROPE … THEN COME CRASHING DOWN ON TOP OF THE UNDERTAKER WITH AN UNBELIEVABLE SOMERSAULT PLANCHA! RVD WIPES THE UNDERTAKER OUT!
Despite both men crashing to the floor with a thud, the only sound we initially hear is the resounding boom of the crowd chanting "HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!" However, it isn't long before RVD gets back to his feet and holds his arms out to the crowd, prompting them to change it up to a chant of "R – V – D! R – V – D! R – V – D!" Looking to cement his legacy, Van Dam turns back to The Undertaker and rolls him into the ring so he can hook the leg for a pinfall attempt:
The Undertaker gets his shoulders up off the mat!
Like before, Van Dam isn't too fussed, instead going right back to work as he grabs 'The Phenom' by the hair, then drags him across to the corner to SLAM his face down into the top turnbuckle. Dizzy, The Undertaker is easily forced back into the corner, opened up so that RVD can just DRIVE his shoulder into the midsection of 'The Phenom' over and over, until the count reaches four from Chad Patton and RVD backflips back, then comes into The Undertaker with a final shoulder thrust. RVD is once again chastised by Patton, who had told him to back away, buying 'Taker some time to recover before RVD turns … right into a kick to the midsection! The crowd pops as The Undertaking finally begins to get himself back in the match, firing off a couple of BIG right hands … but RVD ducks the third, then wraps his legs around the legs of 'The Deadman' to take him down with a unique roll up:
The Undertaker kicks out of the surprise pinfall attempt!
Both men get back to their feet … and The Undertaker instantly strikes with a kick to the knee of Van Dam! 'The Phenom' finally slows his opponent down, allowing him to take the arm and twist it overhead … before heading for the corner! The crowd cheers, knowing what's coming as The Undertaker climbs up to the second rope, then to the top, walking ever so cautiously along the ropes … when RVD suddenly springs to life, jumping up to the second rope to pull The Undertaker down, causing him to land awkwardly with a MASSIVE thud! Seeing the positioning of 'Taker in front of the corner, RVD springs to life, looking to finish the match as he bounces up onto the top rope … LOOKING FOR THE SPLIT LEGGED MOONSAULT … AND CONNECTING! RVD LANDS PERFECTLY ACROSS THE UNDERTAKER WITH THE SPLIT LEGGED MOONSAULT! RVD hooks the leg:
RVD swears to himself under his breath, having thought there may have been a chance that he had picked up an early victory, before going after his opponent, who has rolled out to the apron. RVD reaches over the top rope, trying to grab The Undertaker by the hair … when 'The Phenom' springs to life and grabs Van Dam by the head, SNAPPING his jaw off the top rope with a hotshot! The Undertaker is able to follow up by dragging a stunned RVD out to the floor, sitting him up on the apron so he can BLAST him with some big right hand shots. This allows 'Taker to lay RVD down, his body back under the ropes while his head pokes out onto the apron … BAM! The Undertaker elbows RVD right across the bridge of the nose!
The crowd cheers, knowing what's next as 'The Deadman' now climbs up onto the apron, looking down at RVD as he stands over him, before charging … leg drop … no! RVD dodges, rolling out to the floor, leaving The Undertaker to hit nothing but apron! 'The Phenom' peels himself from the apron, moving mighty gingerly into RVD, who boots 'The Deadman' in the midsection, then grabs him in a suplex position … before dropping him right across the crowd barrier! Knowing what's coming next, the crowd starts to buzz as RVD scoots up to the apron, then looks around, before doing his classic thumb taunt to chants of "R – V – D!" … then leaping off the apron … and CRASHING down onto The Undertaker with a spinning leg drop to the back of the neck! Another good pop sounds throughout the arena as both men crash down to the floor with a thud, RVD having done some damage to himself in the process of hurting his opponent. This becomes even clearer when RVD limps back to his feet, feeling a little sore in the knee as he rolls in and out of the ring to break referee Chad Patton's count.
Knowing that he has to keep the onslaught coming against a man like The Undertaker at WrestleMania, RVD goes right back to business, lifting The Undertaker up, before grabbing him ready for an Irish whip and going for it … but The Undertaker reverses … and RVD goes crashing into the steel ring steps … KNEE FIRST! RVD'S KNEES GO CRASHING INTO THE STEEL, SENDING RVD HURTLING OVER THE TOP OF THEM AND FALLING TO THE COLD, HARD FLOOR WITH AN INCREDIBLE THUD!
Small chants of "Holy shit! Holy shit! Holy shit!" sound through the Allstate Arena as RVD lies on the floor, groaning in pain and clasping at his previously injured knee. Meanwhile, The Undertaker is able to take some time to recover, pulling himself back together, before heading around ringside to lift his opponent up and toss him into the ring. 'Taker is quick to follow RVD in the ring, hunting him back into the corner, before beginning to kick at his previously injured knee, DRIVING his boot into it time and time again! Referee Chad Patton pleads with The Undertaker to back away at four, only for 'Taker to ignore him and instead wrap the leg of RVD around the middle rope, pulling on it and GRINDING his injured knee into it! Having only just returned from a layoff of over a year thanks to an injury to this exact knee, the pain on RVD's side is intense, causing him to yelp out in pain, almost begging for The Undertaker to release the hold. 'The Phenom', however, has no plans to show any mercy, only relinquishing his grip when referee Chad Patton threatens to disqualify him.
After chasing Patton off to let him know just who is in charge in the ring, The Undertaker comes back to RVD … and walks right into a right hand! The crowd gives a little pop as RVD fires off a second … only for The Undertaker to cut him off by booting him right in the knee! RVD groans in pain, attempting to take weight off the injured knee when 'The Phenom' grabs him by that leg and drags him to the middle of the ring, before taking Van Dam's other knee out from under him to trip him up. 'Mr. Pay-Per-View' is practically defenceless on the mat, looking up at The Undertaker, who continues to hold him by the injured leg … before suddenly DROPPING his elbow right down on it, driving Van Dam's knee down into the mat! RVD again almost whimpers in pain, although it only gets worse when The Undertaker gets back up and takes RVD's leg with him so that he can DRIVE his elbow back into it, sending the knee of Van Dam right into the mat again. Getting up, 'The Phenom' looks to do the same for a third time … and he succeeds, catching Van Dam's knee between a rock and a hard place, SQUEEZING down on it with his elbow.
Rather than release this time, The Undertaker actually continues to press down on the knee of Van Dam with his elbow, turning it into a submission hold. Referee Chad Patton is quickly on it too, asking RVD if he wishes to submit, only for Van Dam to refuse, demanding he be allowed to fight on. The outlook is bleak for Van Dam though, caught in the middle of the ring with seemingly no way out of the situation he finds himself in. Clawing at the mat, 'Mr. Monday Night' starts to try to get to the ropes, although, with the frame of The Undertaker firmly attached to his knee, it's proving quite the struggle to move at all. Still, with visions of grandeur in mind, 'The Whole F'n Show' does all he can to pull himself along the mat, gaining himself the support of the crowd, who want to see this match continue. Bit by bit, inch by inch, RVD pulls himself closer and closer to the ropes, resisting the urge to submit, instead proving he's up for the battle. The ropes still aren't quite within reach though, forcing RVD to go through even more pain as he tries with all of his might to get there, despite having a giant man putting his knee through as much pain as possible at the same time … which RVD resists, as he finally reaches the bottom rope!
The crowd cheers, glad to see the contest still going, even if, at this point, it isn't looking like much of a contest. This is further proven when RVD climbs back to his feet, hopping on one knee, prompting The Undertaker to go back into his fighting stance … BAM! The Undertaker drills his opponent with a right hand, with 'Mr. Monday Night' now seemingly not having the evasive skills thanks to the injured knee. This allows The Undertaker some more time as he lines Van Dam up again … to strike with another right hand! The Undertaker has taken away his opponent's biggest weapon, and he's now free to use his, winding up before hitting Rob Van Dam with a third right hand, this time sending him staggering back into the corner! Free to move in at his own pace, The Undertaker comes in and measures Van Dam, before SMACKING him right in the jaw with another right!
'The Phenom' carefully delivers a couple more right hands to the face of Van Dam, before suddenly snapping and going to town, ABSOLUTELY HAMMERING HIM WITH AN AMAZING SERIES OF RIGHT HANDS! The crowd cheers as The Undertaker finishes off his flurry and again chases referee Chad Patton off, this time clean from the ring, before turning back to RVD and advancing on him slowly, measuring another right hand … only for RVD to duck! Despite the injury, RVD was left enough time to recover and dodge the right … leaving The Undertaker to punch the top turnbuckle! 'The Phenom' turns to RVD, shaking his hand in pain … and suddenly a light bulb goes off in RVD's head as he grabs The Undertaker by the wrist to take him over … BEFORE STOMPING ON THE HAND OF 'THE DEADMAN'! Just as The Undertaker targeted RVD's biggest weapon, 'Mr. Monday Night' goes after The Undertaker's, holding his hand to the mat, before STOMPING ON IT AGAIN!
The Undertaker rolls around on the mat in pain, clutching at his hand, when RVD suddenly drops down next to him, then drops his knee down ONTO the hand of The Undertaker, damn near trying to DRIVE it through the mat! The unique offense from RVD actually gets some cheers as he changes things up, locking in a keylock around the wrist and hand of his opponent, looking for a submission, just as 'The Phenom' looked for one before. Bellowing in pain, The Undertaker refuses to submit, looking almost angry that Chad Patton would ask him if he wanted to quit, as he instead insists upon fighting on, not wanting to give up his streak so easily. With the crowd now rallying behind him, The Undertaker begins to fight back to his feet, bringing RVD with him as he looks for a way out, unable to use his hand … prompting him to CRACK his head into RVD's with a headbutt!
This sends Van Dam staggering back into the ropes, allowing The Undertaker to try to send him off for an Irish whip, which Van Dam reverses. 'The Phenom' hits the ropes hard, coming back to duck under a clothesline … before scoring with a flying clothesline of his own on the rebound! The crowd erupts with a huge pop as The Undertaker gets back to his feet, lifting Van Dam with him to press him back against the ropes again for an Irish whip again, only for Van Dam to reverse again. Feeling the match slipping away, 'Mr. Monday Night' ducks down for a back body drop as 'The Phenom' hits the ropes … but The Undertaker sees it coming, allowing him to DRIVE the head of RVD down into the mat, scoring with a running DDT! The crowd again gives a good cheer for the familiar move of their beloved Undertaker, who remains down next to RVD, perhaps feeling the effects of the match as he starts to slowly pull himself to a cover:
The referee confirms that it was just a two count, prompting 'The Phenom' to get back to his feet and immediately look to go back to work, looking for an Irish whip into the corner that RVD is able to again reverse. Desperately wanting to get some offense in, RVD staggers over to the corner and looks for a spinning heel kick … but The Undertaker dodges at the last moment, leaving RVD to kick nothing but the top turnbuckle! The pain shooting through his leg, RVD turns … and is SQUASHED right back into the corner with a clothesline! The crowd now on his side, The Undertaker backs away, before charging back in and SQUASHING his opponent in between his own body and the turnbuckle for a second time.
Now on jelly legs, RVD staggers from the corner … right into the clutches of The Undertaker, who scoops him up, then DROPS him face first into the top turnbuckle! Looking completely out of it, RVD staggers back into the middle of the ring … to have his head almost taken off by a MASSIVE running big boot at the hands of The Undertaker! 'The Phenom' is quick to drop down and hook the leg:
With the match nearly his, The Undertaker gets up and decides that it is indeed time to end it for good … RAISING HIS HAND UP INTO THE AIR TO SIGNAL FOR THE CHOKESLAM! The crowd goes nuts as 'The Phenom' holds his hand aloft, waiting as RVD starts to groggily struggle back to his feet, unaware of anything that is happening around him. Now on a vertical base, Van Dam turns … AND THE UNDERTAKER CATCHES HIM BY THE THROAT! THE CROWD ERUPTS AS THE UNDERTAKER GETS RVD UP … NO! VAN DAM KICKS THE UNDERTAKER IN THE JAW, CAUSING 'TAKER TO DROP HIM RIGHT BACK DOWN!
Still feeling his knee injury, RVD staggers back to the corner, his knee almost giving way along the way. This allows The Undertaker time to recover and see RVD's positioning, prompting him to charge in at him … right into a raised boot! Fighting through the pain, RVD heads to the second rope … THEN COMES OFF WITH THE THRUST KICK! VAN DAM STRIKES THE UNDERTAKER RIGHT ON THE BUTTON! RVD hooks the leg of his opponent:
RVD is the one to check and make sure it was just two this time around, before going after his opponent, who has made his way across to the corner. RVD initially strikes with a few kicks, although his knee appears to bother him, prompting 'Mr. Monday Night' to instead climb up onto the second rope and look to strike with some right hands. The count of the crowd rings throughout the arena as Van Dam begins to tee off on The Undertaker – ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE! SIX! SEVEN! EIGHT! NI- … NO! Van Dam suddenly stops due to The Undertaker grabbing him by the thighs … AND LIFTING HIM UP! THE CROWD GOES NUTS AS THE UNDERTAKER WALKS OUT OF THE CORNER … THEN DUMPS RVD ON THE BACK OF HIS NECK! THE UNDERTAKER LANDS THE LAST RIDE! 'The Phenom', sure of victory, drops down and hooks the leg:
Indeed The Undertaker looks shocked, confirming with referee Chad Patton that it was just two, before climbing back to his feet … AND AGAIN DECIDING THAT IT IS TIME TO DELIVER THE CHOKESLAM! Another pop rings throughout the Allstate Arena as The Undertaker holds his hand up high in the air, waiting as RVD heads towards the ropes to try to get some assistance in getting back to his feet. Slowly but surely, RVD pulls himself up, injured wheel and all, before turning … AND FOR THE SECOND TIME HE'S GRABBED BY THE THROAT! THE UNDERTAKER LOOKS FOR THE CHOKESLAM … NO! This time 'The Deadman' doesn't even get to lift his opponent up in the air thanks to Van Dam punching The Undertaker right in the injured wrist, causing him to release the hold! 'The Phenom' looks to shake his wrist free of pain, allowing Van Dam time to back into the ropes, then limp at top pace towards him … LOOKING FOR A SPINNING HEEL KICK … NO! The Undertaker ducks at the last moment, then runs off to the ropes … AND BOUNCES BACK INTO ANOTHER SPINNING HEEL KICK AT FULL FORCE, THIS ONE CONNECTING RIGHT TO THE JAW OF THE UNDERTAKER!
'The Phenom' goes down in a heap as RVD staggers over to the ropes, resting across them … until he turns to see The Undertaker down! The crowd cheers as RVD looks around … BEFORE HEADING TO THE CORNER! Realising he may not be able to clean jump up to the top rope, RVD instead has to head out to the apron, then slowly start to climb to the top rope … BEFORE PREPARING TO FINISH THE UNDERTAKER OFF … AS HE GOES TO LEAP … NO! THE UNDERTAKER SITS UP! THE UNDERTAKER SITS UP … AND VAN DAM FREEZES! Vam Dam freezes as The Undertaker rushes across to the corner … THEN GRABS RVD BY THE THROAT TO A HUGE POP! THE UNDERTAKER GRABS VAN DAM BY THE THROAT, THEN LIFTS HIM UP FROM THE CORNER … AND DELIVERS A CHOKESLAM DOWN IN THE CENTRE OF THE RING! THE UNDERTAKER FINALLY LANDS THE CHOKESLAM! Triumphant, 'The Phenom' drops into the cover:
The reception for the kickout from the crowd is nothing short of absolutely huge, with the surprise of it sending the crowd into a frenzy. Like the crowd, The Undertaker is in absolute shock in the ring, not believing that RVD could kick out of such a huge chokeslam. After a moment of storming around the ring, 'The Phenom' decides enough is enough … AS HE MAKES THE THROAT SLASHING MOTION, CAUSING THE CROWD TO LET OUT AN EVEN BIGGER POP! We once again see The Undertaker waiting as Rob Van Dam slowly starts to struggle up, the pain not just in his legs now, but also in the back of his head, his neck and right down his spine. Still, RVD resolutely fights on, climbing back up to his feet, albeit at an extremely slow pace, before turning to 'Taker … AND BEING SCOOPED UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS! THE CROWD GOES ABSOLUTELY NUTS AS RVD IS BROUGHT UP ONTO THE SHOULDERS OF 'THE DEADMAN' … ONLY TO FIGHT FREE! RVD STRUGGLES FREE! The challenger to the streak lands behind The Undertaker, then pushes him off to the ropes … BEFORE ROCKING HIM WITH A HUGE SUPERKICK TO THE JAW ON THE REBOUND! THE UNDERTAKER IS DOWN! THE UNDERTAKER IS DOWN! RVD JUST KNOCKED THE UNDERTAKER'S HEAD INTO ROW Z WITH A MASSIVE SUPERKICK!
The crowd can't believe it, looking on to see RVD stagger about the ring … THEN HEAD TO THE CORNER! Just like he has done on BOTH the previous RAW and SmackDown!, RVD looks to follow up the superkick by heading to the top rope. This time, however, RVD takes a lot more time getting there, climbing out to the apron, before hauling his aching body, injured knee and all up the to the top rope. With The Undertaker still down, RVD gets right up to the top and stands tall, looking out at the crowd, thoughts of ending the streak surely running through his mind … BEFORE HE LAUNCHES HIMSELF UP … FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH! RVD LANDS THE FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH! RVD LANDS THE FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH … RIGHT ONTO THE KNEES OF THE UNDERTAKER! THE UNDERTAKER GOT HIS KNEES UP, DRIVING THEM UP INTO THE RIBS OF VAN DAM WHEN HE CAME CRASHING DOWN WITH THE FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH!
'Mr. Monday Night is sent spluttering away on the mat, rolling around and holding his ribs in pain. Meanwhile, a raging 'Deadman' rolls to the ropes and pulls himself slowly to his feet, snarling away … AS HE MAKES THE THROT SLASHING MOTION ONCE MORE! The reaction from the crowd is absolutely huge as The Undertaker sets himself, watching, waiting as a valiant RVD continues to roll around the mat in pain. Clasping at his ribs, RVD pulls himself to the ropes, looking for any assistance he can possibly get to pull himself to his feet after the monumental battle he's been through. Ever so slowly, RVD gets back to his feet, unaware of his seemingly sealed fate, which he turns into … AND IS IMMEDIATELY SCOOPED UP! THE UNDERTAKER AGAIN SCOOPS RVD UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS … AND RVD BEGINS TO WRIGGLE AGAIN! WITH ALL HIS MIGHT, RVD BEGINS TO FIGHT, NOT WANTING TO BECOME ANOTHER VICTIM OF THE UNDERTAKER AT WRESTLEMANIA, NOT WANTING TO BE ANOTHER NAME IN THE STREAK … BUT THE UNDERTAKER FIGHTS THROUGH IT AND SETS HIM UP IN POSITION … THEN DROPS TO HIS KNEES TO DRIVE THE TOP OF THE HEAD OF RVD INTO THE MAT! THE UNDERTAKER HITS A PICTURE PERFECT TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER, RIGHT IN THE CENTRE OF THE RING!
His fight surely all gone now, RVD lies in the middle of the ring, able to do nothing as The Undertaker crosses his arms for the pin, rolls his eyes and sticks his tongue out:
Winner: The Undertaker via pinfall @ 26:19
Howard Finkel:
Here is your winner, THEEEEEE UNDERTAAAAAKKKKEEEERRRR!
The crowd gives a huge cheer as the music of 'The Phenom' starts up, causing the lights to dim. Victorious, The Undertaker drops onto one knee, sticks his tongue out and rolls his eyes back in his typical pose, all while RVD starts to come to at ringside, realising he fell just short.
Michael Cole:
The Undertaker may reign supreme here tonight and take his streak to fourteen and zero, but ladies and gentlemen, what an effort, what a performance from RVD. He took The Undertaker to places I don't think we've ever seen 'Taker go before, and it really was something quite special.
Joey Styles:
Agreed, Michael. The Undertaker may have been victorious, but he had to target RVD's biggest weapon, something you NEVER see The Undertaker do, just so he could survive the onslaught of the challenger to the streak. He may have come up short, but he's still a winner in my eyes.
That's what WrestleMania is all about, plain and simple. Lookin' at some of those counters, of those reversals, I thought RVD may have had it numerous times, but 'The Deadman' showed why he's undefeated at WrestleMania, pullin' through once again.
Jerry Lawler:
I couldn't agree more, Tazz.
Jonathan Coachman:
Whatever. He's still a loser.
'The Phenom' makes his way up to the top of the ramp, having peeled his singlet down, before stopping and raising his hand to signify yet another victory at WrestleMania.
We begin the vignette by seeing the footsteps of a man in a dark yard, stepping on twigs.
While the superstars of RAW may have enjoyed the spoils of WrestleMania …
The steps continue.
While they may have thought their road had come to an end …
More steps.
That their journey was over, they're about to learn that the journey … is just beginning …
Another step, while we also can vaguely see Edge spearing Kurt Angle over the top.
For every piece of injustice, there's a piece of justice …
Another step, with Edge delivering the con-chair-to to John Cena this time being shown over the top.
For every misguided actions, there's punishment …
Edge holding the gold aloft over the top of the footstep.
And for every action … there's a reaction.
Backlash – April 30th, 2006
We now cut backstage to see a split screen: on one side, the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, BATISTA rises, while on the other, RANDY ORTON gets to his feet, both men headed for the door as they get set to meet in the ring.
The video package opens up, showing Evolution – Ric Flair, Triple H, Randy Orton and Batista – standing at the top of the stage.
Randy Orton:
If I had to sum up Evolution in two words I'd say … Randy Orton.
He would probably say Randy Orton.
Randy Orton:
Evolution was all about the evolution of the professional wrestling industry, the evolution of the superstar, and I don't think there's any greater exponent of that than me.
For me, Evolution was about getting my foot in the door, and about taking this wrestling gig seriously.
Randy Orton:
Evolution was all about me.
Evolution was all about learning.
Images of Randy Orton in Evolution are shown.
Randy in Evolution … he was always good … but he knew it. And that was always his downfall. He thought he was so good, that I think he bought his own hype, and then some.
Images of Batista back in the Evolution days are shown.
Randy Orton:
Dave Batista was no different to what he is today. A good big guy … but I'm better.
Batista is shown with the World Heavyweight Title.
The reason I think I'll win at WrestleMania is because I have a greater passion to succeed than Randy. I'm more driven, I'm more focused, and I'm more deserving.
Orton is now shown with the title.
Randy Orton:
Why I will win? How about trying to come up with a reason why I won't win? Y'know what? Don't bother. There is none.
Triple H is shown sitting on a set.
Triple H:
Who do I think will win? I dunno.
Ric Flair:
Dave Batista.
Mr. Kennedy:
Randy Orton.
Rey Mysterio:
Dave Batista.
Gregory Helms:
Chavo Guerrero:
Johnny Nitro:
Matt Hardy:
Shelton Benjamin:
Charlie Haas:
Triple H:
What I do know is it'll be tough, because they're possibly the two best in the industry today. And either way you'll be looking at a worthy World Heavyweight Champion.
Randy Orton:
When I win, SmackDown! will finally have a worthy World Heavyweight Champion.
When I win, I'll finally shut Randy up.
Back to ringside …
Heat just plain pours out from the Allstate Arena as the familiar tune plays, LIVE BY MERCY DRIVE, as RANDY ORTON steps out onto the stage, looking as smug as ever. Smirking away, Orton halts at the top of the ramp to throw up his signature pose, triggering a rain of pyro to fall behind him.
Michael Cole:
Ladies and gentlemen, it now time for our main event. It is now time to decide the World Heavyweight Championship. And for Randy Orton, it is now time to put up, or shut up. Randy Orton has it all – the looks, the talent, and even the live band Mercy Drive here tonight – but what Randy Orton doesn't have is the World Heavyweight Title, and while he's been bragging about already having the title won, he hasn't quite done it yet.
That's pretty much spot on, Cole. While I believe Randy will win, it's now time for him to back up what he's been sayin' all along. He's been sayin' he's the man around here, well it's time he proved it, right here in the main event of WrestleMania 22.
Orton swaggers down the ramp, arm raised in the air, before climbing up into the ring and throwing up his signature pose on the second rope. Once his music stops, TLK drops down from the second rope to wait …
The crowd EXPLODES with the biggest pop of the night as the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, BATISTA explodes out onto the stage. Full of energy, the champion heads to both sides of the large stage to yell out to the crowd, before coming back into the centre to unleash his explosive pyrotechnics.
Michael Cole:
Tonight is a huge night for this man Batista as well. Should Batista win tonight, he would go coast to coast, winning the world title at last year's WrestleMania, then retaining it at this year's, officially going for a whole year. If Batista loses, however, you have to feel like he will go down as a footnote as the inferior part of Evolution.
No doubt, this is big for Batista too. This is the WrestleMania main event. I was in the ring when he spoke this past week on SmackDown!, and I gotta tell ya, Batista spoke with a lotta passion, which I respect. Hopefully he can channel that passion in the ring, 'cause it should make for a heck of a match.
Batista walks down the ramp rather quickly, then climbs up into the ring to showcase the gold to the fans. Batista doesn't pay much attention to Orton at this stage, only stopping to stare at him when the bell rings.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for ONE FALL, and it is for the WOOORRRLLLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP! Introducing first, THE CHALLLLENGER, from ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, weighing 245 lbs, he is a third generation superstar, son of legendary 'Cowboy' Bob Orton, a former Intercontinental Champion and the youngest world champion in history, 'THE LEGEND KILLLLEERRRR', RAAAANNNNDY OOORRRRRTON!
Some great heat as Orton simply smirks.
Tony Chimel:
And from WASHINGTON D.C., weighing 295 lbs, he is a former Tag Team Champion, and the current reigning and defending WOOORRRLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, 'THEEEEEE ANIMAL' BAAATISTAAAAAAAAAAA!
Batista raises the title in recognition, before handing it away as this one gets set to go. The main event of WrestleMania 22 is ready to begin.
World Heavyweight Championship; Singles Match:
Randy Orton
Batista ©
The buzz from the crowd is nothing short of astounding as these two men, these two former stable mates, two former running buddies stand on opposing sides of the ring, ready to compete in the main event of WrestleMania 22. The World Heavyweight Champion, 'The Animal' Batista bounces up and down on the spot, psyching himself up ahead of the match, showing he plans to meet the match head on. Meanwhile, the 2006 Royal Rumble Match winner, 'The Legend Killer' Randy Orton remains still and calm, showing typical smug attitude with the smirk he seems to have permanently painted on his face while watching his opponent. The two remain in these positions for a moment, before slowly starting to come forward to meet one another in the centre of the ring. The reaction from the crowd picks up to a fever pitch, looking on as these two warriors stare one another down, some trash talking surely about to go down … when Randy Orton … extends his hand to Batista? Neither the crowd nor Batista are sure what to think as Orton holds his hand out, saying nothing at first.
Batista looks at sceptically, as you'd expect when Randy Orton offers you something, although Orton seems to insist he means no harm, telling Dave "It's okay. I wanna settle this like men, and this is what men do." Still, Batista is unsure of Orton's gesture, knowing that it may well be a trap because that's the type of guy Orton is. Orton continues to plead his innocence, bringing up to 'Big Dave' that he's yet to break any of his promises … but Batista decides against it, backing away to the corner. Orton shrugs casually, looking as far from sincere as possible, before he too heads back to his corner and the crowd begins to buzz once again.
With so much on the line, you can understand neither man wanting to make a move too quickly, although Batista, being the aggressor that he usually is, decides it's enough of standing around and doing nothing before long as he begins to circle around the ring. Orton, knowing he can't be left behind, follows cue, and suddenly this match looks set to go. The two former Evolution buddies keep circling around the ring for a moment, neither moving at a great pace, before they both step forward and engage in the first lockup. Despite Batista being the bigger man, he doesn't take the advantage immediately, struggling at first with Orton, who is no small man himself. Eventually, however, 'Big Dave' is able to win out, forcing Orton back to the corner thanks to his sheer power. That's where things end though, at least for now, as referee Mike Chioda is quick to get in and try to ensure we have a clean World Heavyweight Title match here, making sure there's a clean break.
Batista, knowing he's sent a message to Orton, seems happy to release his hold on Orton and stare him down, saying slyly "Not too bad, huh?" to his opponent. Orton ignores the little dig at his claim to be better than Batista in every way, instead coming from the turnbuckle to circle around the ring, rather than going right back at his opponent. Batista too circles around, before the two come forward and engage in another lockup. Much like before, it isn't an easy victory for Batista, but his superior size and strength ends up coming into play as he forces Orton all of the way back to the corner. Once again, Chioda is on it quick as a flash, enforcing the clean break, meaning Batista has to back away, although this time he raises his eyebrow, almost as if to dare Randy Orton on. Orton looks to take the bait this time too, coming forward … only to drop down and roll from the ring!
The crowd shits all over the actions of Orton, calling him a coward as he stands at ringside, hands on hips. Meanwhile, Batista demands he get back in the ring, only for Randy to continue to just stand still. Finally, with the referee's count up to five 'The Legend Killer' starts to pace around ringside, looking to re-enter the ring … only to slide in and out quickly, causing referee Mike Chioda to reset his count! The boos absolutely rain in once again for Orton as he tells Batista "When I'm ready, man. When I'm ready."
Chioda's count has to get up to seven this time before Orton starts to climb up the steel steps, heading onto the apron to tell Chioda to back Batista up. Wanting the match to finally get started for real, Chioda does just that, backing Batista away so Orton can climb into the ring. A typical smirk on his face, Orton now seems happy to circle around the ring, prompting Batista to do the same, before they lock up once again. Like before, Batista is able to overpower Orton, at least at first, although Orton is soon able to show his superior wrestling genes, taking the arm of Batista away to twist it overhead and lock in a wristlock. Batista can feel the pain in his arm, grimacing as Orton continues to keep the hold locked in, before pulling into a side headlock.
Batista now struggles again, flailing his arms about a bit, looking for a way out, only for Orton to wisely take him over with a headlock takedown. Batista finds himself in an unfamiliar position, caught down on the mat as his former stable mate continues to crank on the side headlock, amping up the pressure until Batista stops flailing and lets his shoulders fall to the mat:
Batista springs a shoulder up off the mat!
'The Animal' has a brief moment of motivation, attempting to spring to life, only for Orton to really get some leverage and crank the pressure up, sending Batista's shoulders back down to the mat:
Batista again gets his shoulders up off the mat!
This time 'The Animal' shoots back up, feeling full of energy as he does so, then presses against the ropes, using the momentum coming off to push Orton off, before STEAMROLLING him on the rebound with a shoulder tackle! Wanting to follow up, Batista is quick to dash off to the ropes again, then jump over Orton who drops down flat. Batista bounces back again, this time going under Orton as he jumps in the air, only for Orton to smirk to the crowd, then turn to have Batista already coming towards him, running straight through him with another shoulder tackle! A cheer from the crowd goes up as Batista looks to keep his momentum rolling, bouncing off the ropes, before coming back from a clothesline … but Orton stops climbing to his feet, then rolls from the ring!
The crowd shits all over the tactics from the arrogant challenger, who starts to pace around ringside, taking a few deep breaths in … when Batista suddenly changes towards him and slides from the ring, sending him into panic mode! Orton immediately bolts, running around ringside, before sliding back into the ring and running off to the opposite ropes … to run right back into a clothesline! Batista immediately makes the cover:
Orton gets his shoulder up off of the mat!
Orton immediately looks to escape, trying to roll away, but the champion catches him, grabbing him around the head and running him across to the corner to slam his head into the top turnbuckle. Orton reels away on jelly legs, the shot stunning him as he moves along the ropes with Batista coming right after him. Looking to follow up on his good work, Batista kicks Orton in the midsection, then tries to send him off with an Irish whip, only for Orton to reverse … then sidestep Batista on the rebound and grab him by the back of the head … THROWING HIM OVER THE TOP ROPE AND OUT TO THE FLOOR WITH A MASSIVE THUD!
The crowd groans as soon as they hear the impact sound throughout the Allstate Arena, the thud being sickeningly loud. With Batista down on the outside, Orton meanwhile gets to take the time to pull himself back together inside the ring, feeling at his facial features to check everything is in order. On the outside, things are not so peachy for Batista, who starts to roll around on the floor, peeling his back off the mats, before using the apron to start to pull himself up. The pain clearly shooting through his back, as shown by one of his hands clasping at it, Batista struggles to climb up onto the apron, looking to get back into the ring … only to be met with a boot through the ropes from Orton, catching him right in the gut. This stuns 'The Animal' enough to allow Orton to lock in a front face lock, before looking for a suplex over the top rope and into the ring … but Batista fights it! 'The Animal' doesn't allow himself to be brought into the ring, blocking it with his leg, before going for a suplex of his own … but his bad back won't allow him to get Orton up! Instead Orton is allowed to have another go at suplexing 'The Animal' back into the ring … and he succeeds, slamming Batista down in the middle of the ring!
A smile on his face, Orton watches as Batista nurses his back, before making the cover:
Batista gets his shoulders up off of the mat!
Despite the kickout, the challenger isn't too fussed, because he's now found his target, putting the World Heavyweight Title reign of 'The Animal' in grave danger. Batista, knowing he's got a weakness now, tries to roll away, but Orton, who grabs him by the leg, then DRIVES his knee down into the spine of 'The Animal', stops him! Batista surely feels that, the pain having to shoot through his spine … and he feels it again when Orton DRIVES the knee in again and again and again and again, before backing off into the ropes, jumping up and DROPPING his knee across the back of the champion once more. Orton rolls the champion over and hooks the leg:
No! Batista gets his shoulders up relatively early again!
The champion, however, is in trouble, and he knows it, heading across to the corner to look for some respite, though Orton is right after him, prompting 'The Animal' to get desperate, landing a kick to the midsection. With the crowd behind him, 'The Animal' now looks to bring the fight, giving Orton everything he has with a couple of big rights … only for Orton to RAM him back into the corner. The injured back of 'The Animal' is taken advantage of again as Orton rears back, then DRIVES his shoulder into the midsection of 'The Animal' a few times, SQUASHING his back into the turnbuckles. Orton is finally forced to back up at the count of four, but the damage is done to the back of 'The Animal', and Orton's able to take advantage of it by rushing back in and beating Batista with a kick to the midsection.
This leaves 'The Animal' at the mercy of Orton, and he knows it, dragging Batista right into the ropes, then pulling him so that Batista's body comes through the second rope, while his back is being bent around the top rope. A smirk on his face, Orton winds up … then SMACKS Batista across the open ribs with a hard forearm! 'The Animal' looks to escape, but Orton holds him back up in position, before rearing back and SMACKING him again, not once but twice before releasing his grip. With the pain shooting through his spine, Batista can only flop away to his hands and knees when he comes away from the ropes, allowing Orton to roll him over and make the cover:
Batista is able to kick out!
Once again, Orton isn't too fussed, climbing back to his feet to look down at Batista with a smug look on his face. Realising how dominant he's become, Orton looks out to the crowd and tells them "THIS IS HOW YOU DO IT!", before winding up for a right hand as Batista gets up … but when Orton swings, the champion is able to block! Orton can't believe it, caught off guard as Batista now begins to absolutely LAMBAST the challenger with hard right hand shots, before roaring out to the crowd and RUSHING him back to the corner! The shoulder thrusts begin, DRIVING into the midsection of Orton … only for the challenger to land a desperate clubbing blow to the back of 'The Animal', sending him staggering away. Meanwhile, Orton is able to go up to the second rope, then, with Batista facing the other way, leap … AND COME DOWN WITH A CROSSBODY BLOCK THAT DRIVES INTO THE BACK OF 'THE ANIMAL', SENDING HIM CRASHING DOWN ON HIS FRONT! The crowd actually cheers the innovative move as Orton makes a cover:
No! Batista kicks out again!
Orton looks at the referee accusingly, perhaps believing that it wasn't actually a two count, before turning back to 'The Animal' and locking in the typical Orton rear chinlock, though this time with a twist, as he also DIGS his knee into the spine of the reigning and defending World Heavyweight Chmpion. Batista groans in pain, his back clearly giving him great trouble, although he refuses to quit, shouting "NO!" at Mike Chioda every time. The crowd begins to get behind 'The Animal' as he continues to fight, willing him back up to his feet … only for Batista to kick him in the back of the knee, sending him back down to one knee … then measure and perfectly place a kick, SHAKING the spine of 'The Animal'. Batista again looks to roll away, but he's caught once again in a cover:
Batista gets his shoulders up off of the mat yet again!
The crowd cheers the fight of 'The Animal', although Orton clearly doesn't appreciate it too much, instead wanting to do further damage as he presses Batista back against the ropes, then sends him off with an Irish whip … only for Batista to EXPLODE through him with a clothesline on the rebound! The crowd goes crazy as Orton springs back up to immediately be pushed back into the ropes, then sent off with an Irish whip … an reverse elbow right to the jaw this time! Orton is reeling, allowing himself to be sent off with yet another Irish whip … with a BIG back body drop on the rebound from Batista being the result! 'The Animal' struggles a little after that one, the toll the move took on his back being taken as he watches Orton get up, then runs off to the ropes … and comes right back into a pendulum backbreaker! Orton goes right back to the back! With 'The Animal' reeling again, Orton goes for yet another cover:
Batista springs his shoulder up from under Orton!
The crowd cheers as the champion kicks out, then looks to crawl away, only to get STOMPED right in the back. Deciding to look for a submission victory once again, Orton mounts the back of Batista, GRINDING his knee down into it, while also holding a chinlock to look for the submission. Batista groans in pain, clearly not finding the knee on his back too comfortable as Orton drives his knee in as hard as possible, although Dave still refuses to tap out. Instead, 'The Animal' starts to wave his hands around, gaining support from the crowd as he begins to get more vertical, forcing Orton to revert back to a regular old chinlock while Batista gets right back to a vertical base. The elbows now start to fly from 'The Animal', DRIVING into the midsection of Orton as he looks to fight free … but Orton stops that right in its tracks by raking the eyes of 'The Animal'.
The crowd gives some great heat as Orton smirks, even quickly throwing up his signature taunt, before Irish whipping Batista into the corner and looking to follow him … to run right into a boot! Like Orton before, with his opponent stunned, Batista now heads up to the second rope … then comes off with a flying shoulder tackle! Batista connects from the second rope, sending both men down to the mat!
With 'The Animal' now looking like he could find a way back into the match, the crowd really starts to get behind him, clapping him on as he rolls around the mat. Orton is starting to stir too though, and the two look neck and neck as they head to opposite ropes to look for assistance in getting up. With that help from the ropes, both men are able to get up with referee Mike Chioda's count at just six, before staggering towards one another … and Randy Orton strikes with a right hand! The crowd boos as 'The Legend Killer' lands the first blow … but Batista fires right back, scoring with one of his own! A cheer greets this … until Randy Orton hits back that is … but Batista hits another of his own … then Orton … then Batista … then Orton … then Batista … then Orton … then Batista … Batista … Batista … Batista … Batista … Batista!
'The Animal' forces Orton all of the way back against the ropes before sending Orton off with an Irish whip … then scoring with a clothesline on the rebound! Orton is quickly back up, walking into another clothesline, and then another one, before Batista RUSHES Orton back into the corner to EXPLODE with some shoulder thrusts! This time Batista isn't interrupted by Orton, striking until he decides to stop and send Orton off to the opposite corner with an Irish whip … which he follows up on by charging in to SQUASH his opponent with a corner clothesline! Orton struggles out of the corner, falling right into the clutches of 'Big Dave' as he boots him in the midsection, then hoists him up … THINKING JACKHAMMER … NO! Orton slips out and lands behind Batista, then pushes him off to the ropes … PICTURE PERFECT DROPKICK TO THE JAW ON THE REBOUND! ORTON GETS BATISTA RIGHT IN THE JAW! Orton makes the cover:
Randy Orton can't believe it, looking at the referee in shock, before staggering back to his feet. With Batista still feeling the effects of the dropkick, Orton is able to buy himself some time to stumble around the ring, pulling himself back together, before turning back to the champion. His eyes now focused, Orton grabs Batista by the arm, opening him up so he can DRIVE his boot down into his back, continuing to put his focus on there. Still holding 'Tista by the arm, Orton pulls him up, convinced he's done enough damage … SETTING UP FOR THE INVERTED BACKBREAKER … NO! Batista spins out of it, then boots Orton in the midsection … BATISTA BOMB TIME … NO! Orton takes Batista down with a double leg … then catapults him up, sending him face first into the top turnbuckle! 'The Animal' reels back from the turnbuckle in pain, feeling at his face … AS HE STEPS RIGHT INTO THE ARMS OF ORTON … WHO NAILS THE INVERTED BACKBREAKER! ORTON BENDS BATISTA'S BACK IN WAYS IT WAS NEVER MEANT TO BEND! The look on Batista's face tells the story, as Orton hooks the leg:
A resounding pop sounds through the arena as Batista kicks out, infuriating Orton, who insists to referee Mike Chioda that it should have been three. Chioda waves Orton's protests away though, leaving the challenger no option but to move on as he decides to head for the corner. 'The Legend Killer' slowly climbs out to the apron, then climbs up to the top rope, watching to make sure Batista hadn't gotten up while he was climbing before getting to the top. 'The Animal' starts to struggle to his feet now, Orton looking down at him, before he jumps … RIGHT INTO A BOOT TO THE MIDSECTION! Batista then hooks Orton up … JACKHAMMER … NO! Orton slips out the back, then pushes Batista into the ropes again … PERHAPS THINKING DROPKICK … SPEAR! BATISTA RUNS THROUGH RANDY ORTON WITH A SPEAR!
In somewhat familiar fashion to older fans, Batista pops back up … THEN LIFTS RANDY ORTON RIGHT UP … GETTING HIM IN POSITION … BEFORE LIFTING HIM … AND DROPPING HIM WITH THE JACKHAMMER! RANDY ORTON IS SLAMMED DOWN WITH THE JACKHAMMER IN THE CENTRE OF THE RING! Batista hooks the leg:
The crowd groans, feeling sure Batista had it that time, only for Orton to kick out at the last moment. Still, Batista doesn't appear to be too fussed, getting back to his feet … AND DECIDING TO CALL FOR THE END! The crowd goes nuts as Batista declares it over, giving the thumbs up, then the thumbs down, before waiting on Orton. Slowly but surely, 'The Legend' Killer' climbs back to his feet, then turns to face Batista, receiving a kick to the midsection … BATISTA BOMB TIME … NO! RANDY ORTON COUNTERS WITH A BACK BODY DROP ONTO BATISTA'S BAD BACK! Batista gets back up very gingerly … clothesline … no! Batista ducks, then runs off to the ropes … TO COME BACK … AND GET CAUGHT WITH AN EXPLOSIVE SCOOP POWERSLAM OUT OF NOWHERE! ORTON SLAMS BATISTA RIGHT ON HIS BACK! Randy Orton hooks the leg, perhaps crowning a new champion:
The crowd gives an almighty pop, extremely happy to see Batista having kicked out. In contrast, Randy Orton is absolutely outraged, shouting at Mike Chioda that it MUST be three. Chioda has no good news for Orton though, prompting him to turn back to Batista … AND CALL FOR THE END! ORTON STARTS TO DEMAND THAT BATISTA CLIMB BACK UP! The crowd shouts warnings out to 'The Animal' as he crawls towards the ropes, the pain that is no doubt shooting through his back slowing him down from what appears to be his fate. Orton waits, his destiny seemingly just one move away as Batista gets back to his feet and turns … RKO! RKO … NO! BATISTA PUSHES ORTON AWAY! Orton turns and charges back … BATISTA CATCHES HIM … SPINEBUSTER! BATISTA SLAMS ORTON DOWN WITH THE SPINEBUSTER! The World Heavyweight Champion makes the cover, looking to retain his title:
This time it's Batista who simply CANNOT believe it, questioning referee Mike Chioda to make sure it's just two. Realising he has no option but to go on, Batista gets back up … AND HE CALLS IT OVER AGAIN! Orton starts to struggle up, like Batista before, using the ropes to get back to his feet, before turning into a kick to the midsection … BATISTA BOMB TIME … NO! Orton takes Batista's arm when he goes to lift him, spinning it around … RKO! RANDY ORTON STRIKES WITH THE RKO … NO! BATISTA THROWS HIM AWAY! RANDY ORTON LANDS RIGHT ON HIS BACK! Orton gets up off the mat, holding his back … kick to the midsection … BATISTA GETS ORTON UP … BATISTA BOMB! BATISTA SLAMS RANDY ORTON DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING WITH THE BATISTA BOMB! The World Heavyweight Champion hooks the leg:
Winner (and STILL World Heavyweight Champion): Batista via pinfall @ 20:33
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, and STILLLLLLL WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, 'THE ANIMAALLLLLL' BATIIIIIIIIISSSSSSTA!
The crowd immediately goes wild in celebration, looking on as Batista rolls off the cover with his hands covering his face, the emotion overcoming him.
Michael Cole:
Batista has done it! Batista has overcome Randy Orton, a guy who many thought he simply wasn't good enough to beat, and he has now made it one year, ONE WHOLE YEAR on top as the World Heavyweight Champion! What a win for 'The Animal'!
Amazing. Simply amazing. Comin' into this, I'll admit, I didn't give Batista much hope, but he's overcome a guy like Randy Orton, and he can now say that he has held the World Heavyweight Title for an entire year!
Michael Cole:
What an achievement, and what a show it has been. We have seen champions retain, new champions crowned, streaks continue, careers take off in an instant, others stutter and WrestleMania moments aplenty. Ladies and gentlemen, I'm Michael Cole, and for everyone here at the WWE, not just at the announce desk, but everyone in the company, I would like to thank you for tuning in to WrestleMania 22! Good night everybody!
As 'The Animal' Batista climbs to his feet and lifts the World Heavyweight Title in the air victoriously in the corner, a set of pyrotechnics fires off behind him, giving us a truly explosive ending to WrestleMania 22.
"Hello …"
We see the explosion of pyro on the stage at the beginning of the show.
"Let me introduce you to …"
The announcers at ringside are shown.
"The characters …"
Numerous flashing faces.
"In the show …"
More flashing faces.
"One says yes, one says no …"
Eric Bischoff, Mr. McMahon and Theodore Long are shown backstage on the couches.
"Decide – which voice in your head you can keep alive …"
The Hall of Famers are shown on the stage.
"Even in madness I know you still believe …"
The chants of "EDDIE! EDDIE! EDDIE!" from the crowd.
"Paint me your canvas so I become …"
Bobby Lashley and John 'Bradshaw' Layfield come out.
"What you could never be …"
Lashley gets the win with the Spear.
"I dare you to tell me to walk through fire …"
Kane and Big Show make their entrance.
"Wear my soul and call me a liar …"
Kane and Big Show retain their titles after a miscommunication from The World's Greatest Tag Team.
"I dare you to tell me to walk through fire …"
Orlando Jordan steps into the ring with two veterans with the US Title on the line.
"I dare you to tell me, I dare you to …"
And he comes out as the new United States Champion.
"Hello …"
The eight faces in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match make their way down.
"Are you still chasing …"
People grabbing at the briefcase.
"The memories …"
Ric Flair reaches the top of the ladder.
"In shadows …"
Gregory Helms climbs up.
"Some stay young …"
Helms starts to win the battle.
"Some grow old …"
Flair fights back.
"Come alive …"
Flair prevails and wins the Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
"There are thoughts unclear you can never hide …"
Kid Kash is shown bowing to Mysterio and bragging.
"Even in madness I know you still believe …"
Mysterio manages to defeat Kash to become the new champion.
"Paint me your canvas so I become …"
Mickie James and Trish Stratus come out.
"What you could never be …"
Mickie wins the title, becoming the role model Stratus couldn't be.
"I dare you to tell me to walk through fire …"
MNM and The Hardy Boyz do battle.
"Wear my soul and call me a liar …"
An assist from Shannon Moore gets The Hardy Boyz the win.
"I dare you to tell me to walk through the fire …"
Numerous pictures of the brutality of the No Holds Barred Match are shown.
"I dare you tell to me, I dare you to …"
Triple H puts Shawn Michaels down with the sledgehammer.
"Hello …"
Edge, John Cena and Kurt Angle make their way out.
"Hello …"
A focus on the WWE Title is shown.
"I dare you to tell me to walk through fire …"
Edge manages to walk through the fire by beating two guys no one thought he would beat.
"Wear my soul and call me a liar …"
RVD and The Undertaker come out.
"I dare you to tell me to walk through fire …"
RVD is shown dominating The Undertaker.
"I dare you to tell me, I dare you to …"
Only for The Undertaker to win.
"Hello …"
Randy Orton is shown coming out.
"Hello …"
Batista too.
"I dare you to tell me, I dare you to …"
And Batista prevails thanks to the Batista Bomb.
"I dare you to tell me, I dare you to …"
We see Batista standing tall, pyro in the background as we fade … to … black.
Last edited by SUPER MATTHEW LECKIE : 12-31-2010 at
TIP Punk
Little Poppa Pump
Join Date: Oct 2008
Location: Dublin
Posts: 2,229
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
The promo at the start is always something i look forward to in real life but not in btb's because its harder to imagine but this promo video was really good and had some important moments from all the rivalries.
JBL v Lashley: Well first off i was right with this being the first match of the night. Although I was wrong with the winner. The reason I thought this would be first is because I think there should always be a good open to an event and this provided it. I thought the ending might have had some involvemant from The Cabnet but it doesn't make too much of a difference. The ending was well done with JBL going for his finisher and ended up being spared instead. Bit of an against all odds win for Lashley but it was a good open.
The exchange between the GM's and Vince was a good way to get the matche's across. At the same time you managed to get some tension and compettion between the Two. You would not have been able to go the night without these Three being involved in some way so good job in getting it done.
Tag Title Match: Ok, I did not see this as being a long match ? I had it down to be the shortest. Never really saw Kane or Big Show as being superstars in long matches so together I just didn't predict it. With that, It was a really well written match for a tag match, they are not always as straight forward becasue of tags but it worked well. I was wrong with my winning prediction as well, I thought you were a fan of Benjamin and Haas and just had a feeling you would give them the Titles. Im thinking of wether you had Shelton dropkick Haas for a reason, could there be a fued coming up? It would have its ads and dis ads.
US Match: Good wrestling match here. I saw this win coming for Orlando! I was suprised Booker went first. With all the tension between Booker and Orlando I thought it would have been more fitting to have them fight it out as the last Two. Orland eliminating Booker at least leaves room for those Two to have a fued. On the plus side, we knew before the match that there would be a new Champion. The winning pin coming so soon after Booker's one was something I didn't expect either. Anyway it seems like you are going to push Jordan.
A Summerslam Poster ? This early ? Do they normally do that ? It's a good poster anyway... Doesn't give anything away really and I like the fact it's 4 hours
THe MITB i thought could have been a little longer. There are so many option with that many men and no rules. Ric Flair winning suprised me, you must have plans for a Title run ? The fact that Helms was the man that nearly won it with him is a strange one because the person who cost the other usualy fued after and I don't know how a Flair/Helms fued would go down. I Like the moment where Masters came down and helped Carlito. Describing the rungs as well was a good move, have not seen it done before like that. It was funny and realistic. Anyway i won't judge too much yet. See what you do with Flair next....
Cruiserweight Match : Another wrong prediction ha. This was match of the night so far. It was a good lenght, had some good high flyong spots and a good amount of pin falls, which is always exciting. I don't like Mysterio being the cruiserweight Champion because I think he can do better than that. I had no problem with the fued because it could have put Kash over more but for Rey to win it might have been a booking mistake. It could have been a good opportunity for someone like Punk to interfere and ruin it for Mysterio. Good match though.
Womens Match: Build up was good. You have put a lot into this fued. It was one of the few Women's matches i enjoyed reading. It had good tempo the whole way and the rivalry was really brought out in the ring. It's aslo always good to see a Women's match come to blood ha! It does make it seem more intense though. I thought you would go with Trish because of what happened in real life but you proved me wrong.
Tag Match: I knew the Hardys would win this match and im not suprised you made it this long. They are Two of the most talented teams and when they got in the ring in real life i remember it being long also. Shannon Moore proved to be a good equaliser to Melina as well. It impacted her interference. This is what probably made it obvious Hardy's were going to win though because he was brought in but I still agree with the move. Another good match here.
HHH v HBK : Ok so this is a bit of a strange One. Maybe I'm wrong and if so I accept it but It is so far you're longest match in terms of the match lenght but weirdly it was written shorter then a few of the other matches that were suppose to be shoter. What happened in the match was really good so hopefully for others it won't be noticed, I just notice the weirdest things but it's not a big deal I suppose. I thought HHH would win alright.... It had a good story to it, a few times it looked like Shawn was going to get the win but HHH just kicked out barely a few times. The time were he was playing possum added a bit of variety to it as it's not done that often. Match of the night so far....
WHC: This was an enjoyable match. It was abck and forth like all good triple threat matches. I changed my mind on who was going to win it a few times which makes it un predictable. I thought Angle was going to tap put to the STFU towards the end and im glad he didn't. Im glad Edge won, He was who i had down to win at the start and he deserved it after kicking out of the angle slam. Good match
RVD v Taker : I don't see any match beating this one tonight. The Two different styles just worked so well against eachother. It is a match I would like to see nowadays and you backed that up. It was nice and long and would have had the crowd on it's feeta few times as it seemed like RVD was getting close to ending the streak. Probably the right decision not having RVD end it though because now it gives you room to have the storyline again next year if you want. Good job.
Orton v Batista : The end of this match I did not see coming. I did not think Batista would reatain. Especially after Edge retained. The match was good, both men seemed strong during it. There was a good few near falls and it was hard to know who was going to win.
OVERALL: It was a great show man. It was. The not so main event matches where not showed less attention to the others and every match was a good match. I don't know why you had Edge and Batista retain though. Thought One would have changed. Also no interference or screwjobs dissapointed me a little but it didn't make much of a difference because of how good the matches were. Well done BKB.
Money in the Bank.
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: QLD, Australia.
Posts: 1,804
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
Congratulations on getting this up. You've accomplished something that many people around here set out to do but have never been able to do so. You should be proud of what you've been able to offer here. I'm not gonna lie though, I think you've made several very questionable booking decisions.
I do want to try and get a review up for you, but will see what happens. I definitely want to voice a few things of concern to me, that you could improve on, but you definitely have done a top job here.
Team GB
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Preston, UK
Posts: 9,575
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
Awesome job mate with this. The effort was well worth it. I'll leave you with some of my thoughts on the show.
Lashley/JBL – It was probably the right way to open the show with a face getting the win, and it's a contest I'm sure the fans would be in to given that JBL got his ass handed to him. It's a great win for Lashley and he looked good doing it.
I wasn't sure as to how the World Tag Team Title contest would go, but I'm not exactly sure about how the World's Greatest Tag Team resurgence has just fallen off. It's not like they're a big win for Kane & Show, and it seems kind of pointless now. I don't know how this will go afterwards but I'm keen to see how all four men develop now.
US Title – I should've known that you were going to give Jordan the title when you put him in your banner, but I'm sure as hell the crowd wouldn't give him a pretty good pop. He's done nothing to warrant a positive reaction, and when this should all have been about Benoit & Booker, this finish just tops it all off. Benoit & Booker being eclipsed by Jordan at the end of it is just bizarre to me. I don't see why you couldn't hold off until Judgment Day with the Jordan push. The whole booking of this from Saturday Night's Main Event has ruined what was a great storyline. Sorry but it has to be said.
I really didn't know what to expect going in to the Money in the Bank match, and I have to say you disguised the winner very well. I didn't see Flair winning it all. I was considering putting the title on Flair back at Vengeance to give him one last fling with the title, and I wouldn't be averse to you doing it. It does make for a great feel good moment and some interesting possibilities, especially with Batista & Orton battling it out for the world title. I'm sure that the fact it came down to him & Helms means something, and there will be some sort of fighting over both the briefcase and the Intercontinental title. All in all, I liked how you went about this one.
The Cruiserweight Championship match was really good, and after seeing Jordan win the United States title, I was convinced your other boy (Kash) would retain, and I would have preferred that to Jordan's win. The booking of it with Rey fighting for his life for the most part and coming out on top in the end was good, and I feel that he needed the win, I just think it's a bit of waste having him as the Cruiserweight Champion given what he was doing before this. No doubt it gave the card a great contest, but I'd much rather have seen Rey involved in the Money in the Bank as I feel he's way past this level.
No qualms with Mickie winning the title whatsoever. Storyline wise, it's totally the right decision.
I loved the finish to the WWE Tag Team title match. It all added to the feel good moment with the Hardys winning the gold with everyone getting involved and the heels getting what they deserved.
The Triple H/Shawn Michaels match went beyond the level of brutality that I thought it would, and it was absolutely brilliant for it. This really could have gone either way, and it didn't matter who came out of it with the win as this always going to continue with the rush job it's had. I went for The Game to win this as I felt it was best that Michaels ends the feud with the big win, and I still think that's the best way to go. I'm looking forward to see this carry on and how Michaels reacts.
I knew Edge would retain and it absolutely had to happen. He's been booked brilliantly in his role as the sneaky champion, and this was the perfect environment for him to sneak it again. I'm glad he did as the prospect of Cena or Angle as champion wasn't exciting and it didn't feel like Edge should lose it. The match itself was great too, and he could've sneaked it earlier then he actually did, which made me think he wasn't going to, making it far more exciting contest as it went on. Being picky, I didn't like how you wrote that Angle got back up to his feet knowing he only had to make the cover, but he wouldn't have to stand up to make a cover. He would just crawl across, but if you said he saw Edge there, he would have panicked and stood up to go for him. That aside, great match!
I was a bit gutted that the Taker/RVD went after Edge's win as it undersold him retaining a bit, but I can understand why you went this way. Going in to it I thought you wouldn't want back to back heel victories in title matches to end the show if Orton was to win of course. Sandwiching that with a Taker win would make up for it, and despite how great RVD's been booked in the build up to this, there was no way in hell he was beating Taker. Saying that, he did a great job and made a real fight of it, but the decision was simple in the end. Even in defeat, this has done wonders for RVD.
I can't say I was surprised to see you end the show with Batista retaining. It's rare to see a heel win the Mania main event, and I think a lot of us rightly pointed that out. I did think you would change one title, and I thought this was more likely. I can't say I'm a fan of Batista holding on to the title when Orton's been great rolling in to Mania, but it doesn't bother me that much. With the feud progressing the way it had, it has the great face comes out on top against the odds feel in the end, which is always good. It also brings credibility to the world title in that it isn't passed around every other month like it has been in the last couple of years. I like that aspect of it. I do just wonder where Orton goes from here.
This show has been the one I've looked forward to the most since coming to the section, and it didn't disappoint overall. There were some pretty awful decisions in my mind like Orlando Jordan's ridiculous push to the United States title and completely undermining the Benoit/Booker storyline. The world tag team & cruiserweight title situations haven't been handled greatly either, but the second half of the show was terrific.
IP, what you said about run ins and screw jobs is absolute nonsense. BkB showed that you don't need shit like that and title changes to make a show exciting. WrestleMania doesn't need them and I'd rather not see them at this PPV as I see it as the grand spectacle where it should all be about fair competition.
There was a lot of hype about this show man and you totally delivered. The effort as always was there, and the writing was great throughout. Aside from some very questionable decisions, you did a top job, unlike your cricket team. Sorry! I couldn't go without making at least one crack about us retaining the Ashes out there.
Learning to break kayfabe
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 25
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
Wrestlemania Review
I believed that a face should always open Wrestlemania and I thought that it was going to be Ric Flair. Anyway Bobby Lashley is a good choice to open the the show, it's a nice way to put him over as the next big thing of the company. I really liked the early agression of JBL showing that he's taking Lashley seriously, he wants to beat him down. I was surprised that the referee let The Cabinet at ringside since it's an evidence that they'll interfere. I like the fact that even though JBL is on the agrssive mode, he made a mistake when he tried to do the same move, it shows the resiliency and the already experience of Lashley. I'm surprised that you didn't mention Jillian after the spear on Albright, she can interfere also but maybe you didn't her to be involved. The back and forth action at the end was great and Lashley winning was the right choice in my opinion. He's the future but for JBL I really don't know what to expect. Maybe a retirement, maybe he'll try to recruit Lashley ? I really don't know.
Vince saying that Lashley has a big future is huge for him, I just hope that he won't end up like Drew McIntyre... Anyway I like the fact that you're keeping a real competition between Raw and Smackdown.
It's rare to see Charlie Haas getting mic time but this interview was spot on. It makes the tag team titles look more important than anything else for Haas and Benjamin.
Show wanting to get revenge on Haas is nice way to show that he hasn't forgot about Haas making him submit. I liked the "You ready ?" of Benjamin to Haas showing that even though they're on the same page, they're not used to team up again. It shows that despite they are together, they are not on the same level that they were before. The dominance of Kane and Show was good and it didn't last too long because when you have this type of match, it could become boring quickly but you didn't do it. Haas coming on fire is typical of a tag team match. The action become fast and furious but where is the referee ? It's not a tornado tag team match anyway I'm not sure if Shelton would be able to pull Show out of the ring while Show has a front face lock on him. Anyway Kane resisting to the Haas of Pain shows that this is Wrestlemania, if we were on Raw, he would've have submit. The miscommunication between Haas and Benjamin was the perfect way to end the match because despite the fact that they're on the same page, it will need more than a match for them to be the World's Greatest Tag Team again.
Booker continue to try to manipulate Orlando Jordan, we'll see if it works.
Benoit should've a standing ovation imo and I don't understand why the crowd give Orlando Jordan a mixed reaction. He's a HEEL and he hasn't done anything to get cheers. Anyway Jordan is nervous and it is understandable, he shouldn't be here. What ??? Booker T being eliminated by Orlando Jordan, you talk about a surprise ! What ?!! You must be kidding me, Orlando Jordan just pinned a former 5 time WCW Champion and a former WHC Champion back to back in 3 minutes ! Honestly I really don't know what to think about this. Jordan pinning Booker is okay, it's the old story of this the youngster overcoming his mentor but beating Chris Benoit at Wrestlemania for the US title. I'm sorry, I can't believe it. From the beginning, this should've been Benoit/Booker, I thought that the addition of Jordan was to make Benoit look strong, to show that he's capable of overcoming two men to win the title but Orlando Jordan, no just no. And just like Nige, I think that it's impossible for the crowd to give Jordan a "great pop" after he beat maybe the greatest wrestler of all time, a favorite of theirs, it's impossible and by roll-up !
A Summerslam poster already and 4 hours ?! Great news.
The two favorites are the first to make their entrance. After seeing the entrances, I'm convinced that Chavo shouldn't have been in this match, he doesn't belong here, you could've replaced him by Masters. By the way, Finlay attacking Henry on the ramp screams a feud between the two, in fact since the Open Mic, it's a lock that these two will meet again in the future. Having Helms and Kennedy to outsmart the others is good but I don't see how Finlay could have "left Henry reeling on the outside" and take down Kenndy and Helms with a double clothesline because they're holding ladders in their hand, aren't they ? The SSP of London looks incredible and it could've been even better if he would've takes everybody down. The series of World's Strongest Slam is here to show the dominance of Henry but you could've variated a bit his offense, it looked repetitive after four. Finlay stopping Henry is once again a proof of their upcoming future. I thought that they were refs around the ring, couldn't they stop Masters to interfere. I guess he was here to take out Mark Henry completely. Kennedy taking out Carlito is surprising because it's another heel but it's good way to have the crowd excited. I'm sorry but unless it has been personal between Kennedy and London a la Hardyz-Edge IRL, there's absolutely no way that London would've prefered to hit Kennedy rather than win the match. It's pointless. Maybe he was on the corner and you didn't precise it but if he was under the briefcase, if he had the chance of a lifetime of becoming World Champion, he would blew it just to be the highlights but anyway it's another feud for the future but it doesn't start well for me. Does Ric Flair have any spot on the match ? I'm not sure but he gets the win just like Edge in the first MITB. It's certainly a shock but at least since Helms was on the last obstacle, I think that he'll try to gain the briefcase. I am also a bit disappointed by the fact that you didn't mention the IC Title and now that Flair is Mr.MITB, the IC will just look like a decoration but once again there's a hope called Gregory Helms.
The early action of the CW match was typical of the cruiserweights. The back of Mysterio's neck hitting the apron looks brutal, maybe too much. I won't go much in detail because there's nothing wrong or questionnable in this match. It was near perfect, great action back and forth and Mysterio winning was the first WM-feel good moment, so nothing to say, great match.
The trash talk of Trish was good but it wasn't sure after the blood so early in the match. Trish Stratus is the perfect heel imo, she has everything to make her believable. The mannerism, the move-set and the attitude, she has it all. Anyway Mickie winning the match is okay, I wish that Trish retained the title but in this storyline, the face has to win imo.
MNM/Hardyz is one of the matches I'm the most looking forward too so hopefully it won't disappoint. And it didn't. The Hardyz dominates the first part of the match because unlike the WGTT, they're on the same page, they know each other so well that they don't need to ask the other one if he's ready. Anyway to no surprise, it's Jeff who makes the first mistake, instead of staying focused on Nitro, he tries too excite an already excited crowd. It's stupid, it's Jeff Hardy. Nitro or Morrison whatever, is awesome, the Breakdance Leg Drop, the Enzuigiri, it's these types of moves which makes him so good. You can be jealous of such a gifted athlete. Just like the first tag team match, after the hot tag, the action become crazy and when Shannon Moore came into play, it was sure that the Hardyz would win. The other WM-feel good moment, I just hope that the match would go a bit longer because these two have the potential to give us a 25 minutes classic. Anyway, excellent match.
I have to admit that I'm not very interested in this 2145643 HHH/HBK match but at least it's the last. Violent is the best word to describe this match. You captured the hatred very well between the two and HHH wins, I'm surprised because since his heel turn, Michaels hasn't won a match, it was a perfect place to have him win his first match as a heel but at least this feud is over. I just thought about the possibility of drafting Shawn Michaels to Smackdown like this you're sure that these two won't face each other again and it gives Michaels the opportunity of beginning a new chapter in his career.
The triple threat was more like a one on one and how Edge would retain his title. I have to admit that I am a bit disappointed that by the time you gave to this match, with all three talents involved and Lita, I was expecting at least 27 minutes. I was surprised by the the fact that only the two times the pinfall has been broken. Anyway the ending would have been better if Edge had use a chair to take down Angle and cover Cena after the super Angle Slam. It was a good match, but I was expecting a little bit more considering who was involved. Edge retaining might be the best choice after all, it opens new possibilities since Edge pinned Cena. He pinned Cena so he's out of the title picture, you could've Edge/Angle at Backlash but with the win of HHH, I can see a match between the two or another triple threat match.
Even though you tried to make it a big deal, ther's no way in hell that Van Dam is beating Taker. Nothing to say about this match, the MOTN in my opinion, the contrast of styles, the determination of Van Dam, the no mercy of Taker, the last lines were awesome, you could really feel the desire of Van Dam of not wanting to be tombstoned but just like his hopes of being World Champion, he just can't do it. I was also surprised by the fact that The Undertaker didn't hit his usual signature moves like the Old School, the plancha or the Leg Drop on the apron. Now it will be interesting to see what they are going to do next because it was all about the streak, it would make no sense for those two to continue their rivalry.
First of all, I'm not sure if Batista would get the biggest pop of the night especially with RVD, HHH and Taker on the same card. Anyway that's the match I'm the most looking forward too. Orton wanting to shake hands with Batista is logical considering his attitude since the beginning of this feud, he wants to prove that he's the better man and a good man shakes the hand of his opponent. The focus on Batista's back was good but I thought that Orton could'vd use a lot more moves instead of kicks and knees. His offense was a bit boring because he's capable of a lot more like using that crossbody but that's the only real move he used. I was expecting more suplex, to really make Batista suffer, he has a weakness and it's not with simple kicks that he'll keep Batista down. The action started to pick up in the end but this time I was expecting more of Batista's offense, he should've use the running powerslam or the spinning side slam which are impactful moves and he didn't have to be on his back. Anyway the counter action in the end was good and Batista retaining is what I predicted. Only 20 minutes is surprising considering that this was the main event, it could have gone longer. I was a bit disappointed by this match maybe I was expecting too much but I can't get over the feeling that these two could've done better so I think that there'll be a rematch with a big stipulation in the future.
Overall despite few things I disagree with, this was the best event of the year in my opinion. It was anticipated and you didn't disappoint so congratulations, you deserve it. Great work.
Last edited by silivain93 : 01-03-2011 at
Step Up And Play...
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Scotland
Posts: 3,375
Re: The World Wrestling Entertainment
Wrestlemania XXII Review
Always good to start things with a face winning, and since there was never really any doubt as to who would be the victor going into this one, Lashley/JBL should do nicely. With the build making Lashley look so dominant, it was nice to see an early big of control of the match for JBL, as was the early interference from The Cabinet and The Bluebloods. The action was certainly aggressive early on, building well to the Lashley comeback. Very much liked the spot involving the spear to Albright into the rest of JBLs posse, that was nicely done. Was expecting something more along the lines of a rollup with a handful of tights off of that, so to see a fallaway slam was certainly interesting.
@ the mouthful JBL gave Lashley. Jibbles would be too busy blowing out his ass to say all that! The ending of the match very much goes against the build up for me, as weve constantly seen Lashley destroy JBL on Smackdown, so to see Lashley make his comeback and then still have to survive isnt how I thought you would go about it. But yeah, Im glad you avoided a kickout from the clothesline from hell, that would have been too much I think. The finish was well done, and the aftermath suggests that perhaps JBLs days as an active competitor are numbered. All in all, a solid start to the show from a match I wasnt expecting much from going in.
as how awkward the seating arrangement on that couch is. Yeah, brief little bit here. Not a whole lot to say on it, as I dont think an interbrand war is something well be seeing anytime soon. Although nice to see Lashley get The Boss seal of approval.
Hass on the stick at Wrestlemania? Whod have thunk it? Interesting to note the fact both seem to be on the same page. Coachs commentary during the intro summed up my thoughts rather well tbh.
Im glad that early doors you had Show block Haas german suplex attempt. We all know the reaction that last time that happened.
Im interested as to how youll take this now. The action throughout was pretty solid, especially the Haas of Pain with Kane staying alive. The ending was a real good touch, although I didnt agree with Kane hitting the chokeslam on Shelton and then covering Haas. Sheltons never really used the superkick as a finisher (has he?) so I thought Kane would be more like to cover off his own move. I still think one of the WGTT will turn, and I still think it will be Shelton. I guessed it would be tonight, as I think turns at Wrestlemania always have that little bit of extra pop to them, but sadly not. But it should happen soon, perhaps even as soon as tomorrow night. A Haas/Benjamin battle at Backlash would be appreciated.
Wow. Im... wow. Im
surprised by OJ winning here. In my prediction I said either Benoit or Booker, so I definitely wasnt expecting this. I also think that simply due to the fact that no-one is really sure of where he stands at this point, I doubt he would be getting a pop from the crowd afterwards. Benoit, as the red-hot babyface in this match, his defeat would draw boos, especially in the manner it happened, with Jordan rolling through like that. One thing you could have done post-match to try alleviate a few worries was to have Benoit perhaps shake OJs hand. Something to get the crowd on OJs side is needed asap, a promo, Benoit putting him over, a brutal revenge beatdown from Booker, but we need something, otherwise this is going to be a very bad decision. But I have faith, so Im sure youll have something in mind. But just now, Im still very surprised that Jordan is the US Champion. And as OJ eliminated Booker, we
dont have a proper resolution to the Benoit/Booker situation, which is what this whole title match was about. Just... yeah, right now this doesnt look good. Please have something good instore for all three men (and CM Punk? Does he still fit in this?) as right now Im struggling with this.
Summerslam should be a good un. And 4 hours too!
Disagree with reviewer above, Chavo definitely belonged here, having very much been involved with Flair and Helms for the majority of the thread. I was surprised to see the Finlay/Henry confrontation at the start. Certainly different from most starts to these matches, with usually start with someone scrambling for a ladder. Finlay certainly impressed early on. Masters getting involved, and that was a crazy spot with Chavo and Henry. The 450 sounded just awesome. And another surprise in the victor, although a much more pleasant surprise. It was certainly well disguised, and I never thought Flair had much of a chance heading into the match. Certainly opens up a few possibilities going forward, and Im sure Helms will have something to say about it all. But yeah, good stuff here.
Another very enjoyable match between Rey and Kash. Rey hanging on for the majority of the match is of course the standard Rey booking, and the finish was certainly something different in terms of how we worked into the West Coast Pop. Rey as champion isnt something I disagree with, as he certainly is a worthy candidate to end Kashs reign and move forward as a figurehead for the division, but you cant help but feel that by this stage in his career Rey is destined for bigger and better. Will be interesting to follow him going forward. As for tonight, it was a good match with the right outcome. No problems here.
You know by now this has been one of my favourite storylines in your thread, especially since SNME. The start, with the takedown and brawling, really set the tone and reflected the past between the two well. Very surprised to see Mickie bleeding, and so relatively early in the match too. The Why wont you stay down? bit was a very nice touch. Cant complain, the right woman won, and I think here would be a good place to put this feud to bed. Its been great to see it progress, but a rematch would spoil what was an emphatic conclusion to things. Good job here.
And here comes another title change. Three in a row feels a wee bit much tbh. Maybe could have spaced things out a little better. This match was very much about giving the Hardyz a feel good moment, and they got it. The action was good, and the ending with Moore making his mark all tied in nicely. Not a whole lot to say, as the outcome of this was always on the cards. It was a nice moment. Harydyz/Bluebloods feud plz.
Michaels/Triple H was just brutal. The match started with a bang (pardon the pun) and it only went on from there. Michaels being tossed down the steps, perhaps was a tad unrealistic as I dunno how Michaels would be able to take a bump like that safely, with him not being a stuntman and all. Interesting psychology with both men targeting the spine at one point or other during the match. At the first quick glance I thought I cant believe theres no blood in this, but after a proper read I notice youve messed up the coding there both times.
at your explanation during the replay. One of them would have came in handy back at SNME
The standoff and way you built the tension at the beginning of the triple threat was very impressive, particularly with the way Angle and Cenas eyes darted back and forth between each other and then Edge. Edge played his role to perfection by dropping out of the ring. The action was good throughout, although I thought there would have been a spell where all Edge did was desperately save pinfall after pinfall, like maybe Angle and Cena have a 4 or 5 minute spell where the batter each other, only for Edge to save the title time after time. That would have been something good to include given the nature of the storyline. Although you got it spot on with the finish, as Edge taking advantage of the Angle Slam was a real nice touch. I also liked that he pinned Cena, as this should be an end to the Edge/Cena side of things. Will be interesting to see if you go with Edge and Angle in singles, but after tonight, Triple H must definitely be in the hunt, once hes recovered of course.
While the outcome of Taker/RVD was never in doubt, I loved the fight and resistance RVD put up. A career defining performance possibly, even in defeat. I cant really say too much about this, other than the action throughout was superb. Thinking about it, perhaps your placement of the matches could have been different, as the second half of the show has
outweighed the first half. But yeah, RVD is the true winner here. Add him to Triple H as two guys who have propelled themselves towards a WWE Title shot with their performance tonight. One thing I feel you might have missed out is that perhaps we could have taken one last look-in with McMahon, Bischoff and Long. The reactions of the two GMs at this point would have been a nice little touch to break things up a bit, and a better option than a Backlash promo IMO.
And now the main event. Which sadly, by being the main event, has made the outcome of the match a tad predictable, as I
doubt youll end with a heel winning. Which is a shame as the rise of Orton over the months has been great to see, and I felt to top it off him winning the title would really cement him as a star. Orton has been so dominant, so Im not a fan of Batista winning. The match itself was fine, the psychology of Orton targeting the spine to weaken Batista was solid, but Im a bit underwhelmed with the result. But I guess, being in the moment, it would have sent everyone home happy. One thing I will also add is that while I felt Edge retaining and Triple H and RVD really pushing themselves forward as faces makes all the sense in the world, we havent really seen a credible heel emerge for Batista to face. Booker has suffered a lot of damage tonight, and I doubt youll go back to Henry, who seems tied up with Finlay now. Perhaps Kennedy? Or maybe even Undertaker? Or are we in for an Orton/Batista rematch. That I could see happening, especially if you give Orton the win on the second match. I said in my predictions that I felt there would be more face challengers for a heel champion, and I stand by that. So yeah, very interested to see where you go with this.
Overall, a great show. A few things I disagreed with, especially the US Title situation, but it was a pleasure to sit down and read through it all. The action and the writing throughout was top notch. Looking forward, Raw is looking just fascinating while Smackdown needs some work. Highly anticipated and it delivered, should be a worthy winner of show of the year
WWE: The Evolution Of Greed
2007 King of the Ring
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