For the moderators: My last thread finished on the 3rd of May (my time). This is my 2nd BTB attempt.
Here is my first post, complete with Backstory, Royal Rumble, No Way Out and Wrestlemania results, as well as rosters. Here is the massive backstory, all of its 25 pages and on the brink of 10,000 words!
WWE 2005: Rewriting History!
Backstory: We are back in 2005, before the WWE went crap, before the disastrous ECW came, before the tragedy of Eddie Guerrero, before the double murder suicide with Chris Benoit, and before the incredible, mega push of ‘Superman’ John Cena happened. Watch as I change the history of the WWE, changing the Royal Rumble, No Way Out and Wrestle Mania 21. Batista did NOT win the Royal Rumble, Kurt Angle became the WWE Champion, and HHH remained the World Heavyweight Champion, with the WWE Championship on Smackdown and the World Heavyweight Championship on Raw.
WWE Royal Rumble 2005
Shawn Michaels defeated Edge in 15: 37 when Edge was disqualified for refusing to stop kicking and punching away at Shawn who was in the corner, trapped.
After the match, Edge went for a Spear to HBK, but Michaels reversed into a devastating Sweet Chin Music, as HBK then posed for the crowd.
The Undertaker defeated Heidenreich in a Casket Match in 11: 52 after a Tombstone Piledriver off the apron into the casket.
After the match, the druids carried out Heidenreich while he was in the casket, only for The Undertaker to push Heidenreich off of the stage (Heidenreich will not return).
Kurt Angle defeated JBL and The Big Show for the WWE Championship in 19:52, after Kurt pinned JBL after an Angle Slam after the Big Show had been taken down from a Clothesline from Hell.
Kurt went and jumped into the audience after the match, with tears in his eyes. Kurt effectively turned face, as the crowd cheered on the new WWE Champ. Big Show is now in the Royal Rumble since he wasn’t pinned.
Triple H defeated Randy Orton in 13:17 to remain the World Heavyweight Champion after HHH nailed Orton with a Sledgehammer shot and then the Pedigree after the World Tag Team Champions Batista and Ric Flair distracted the referee.
Evolution then started bad mouthing the youngster, as HHH started screaming out that Randy would never take his title. Evolution then posed to big heat, with all gold wrapped around their waists.
Shawn Michaels won the Royal Rumble in 56:43 after last eliminating Batista after a Randy Orton distraction, enabling Shawn to Sweet Chin Music the back of Batista’s head to send him out of the ring.
Shawn then went on his hands and knees in the ring, soaking in the ovation from the crowd. Batista went on a rampage, chasing after Orton through the crowd, after ‘Tista entered at Number 30, he thought he had the match won after Shawn had already competed in a match earlier and had entered at number 10.
Raw side of thing between The Royal Rumble and No Way Out
Edge was angry that Shawn had managed to win the Royal Rumble, and that he (Edge) had picked such an early number. Since No Way Out is a Smackdown PPV, Eric Bischoff made a special request to Teddy Long to see if he could have a Raw Showcase match at NWO, between HBK and Edge, with the winner facing off against HHH at Wrestlemania 21! Speaking of HHH, HHH and the rest of Evolution were really pissed off since Randy cost Batista the Wrestlemania main event spot, but Randy was even more ticked off at Evolution as he was cost the World Title. After weeks of bickering and triple teams, Randy finally faced off against Batista, in a 15 foot high Steel Cage, six days before No Way Out. Batista managed to win after Flair handed Batista a steel pipe through the cage. Evolution started beating down on Randy, until Shawn Michaels and Edge came to save the day. All 6 men had a stare down, with HHH raising his title and constantly switching his gaze between Edge and HBK. During these weeks, Edge kept on catching up with his “brother” Christian, where Christian was obviously jealous that his brother could have the chance to main event The Granddaddy of Them All.
As Intercontinental Champion, Shelton Benjamin had many challengers coming his way, such as Chris Jericho and Matt Hardy. These three were continually putting on some fantastic matches, week after week after week. The 3 men were rewarded, as they were put into the first ever Inter-brand 6 Man Money in the Bank Ladder Match, where whoever grabbed the Briefcase would get a World Title match for whenever they want from Wrestle Mania 21 up until Wrestle Mania 22! Jericho had cashed in his rematch clause during this time for the Intercontinental Title, but when Jericho went for a Lion Sault, Shelton managed to roll out of the way, and the nailed Y2J with a very impressive 450 Degree Splash from the top rope!
It was revealed that Lita had only suffered a minor knee injury, which was not as serious as first thought. Lita returned 2 weeks after the Rumble, preventing the Women’s Champion from attacking Lita’s former foe but now friend Victoria. Trish was forced to defend her title against Lita, only for her to leave, and Lita won via count-out, therefore not winning the title. Also, at the Royal Rumble, Chris Benoit had a run in with long time friend Eddie Guerrero, where they embraced with a hug. During the Rumble, however, Eddie and Benoit were working as a team, until Eddie did a trademark move by eliminating Benoit behind his back! Benoit was obviously peeved off at Eddie, with Benoit then going on a rampage, and has been undefeated on Raw since the Royal Rumble, defeating the likes of Johnny Nitro and Rhyno. Lastly, Muhammad Hassan was continually saying how he was being continually disrespected by his superstars and the crowd since he wasn’t American. The crowd gave major heat for this, as Hassan even went as far as spitting on the USA flag!
Smackdown side of things between The Royal Rumble and No Way Out.
JBL was furious about losing the WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble, and he cashed in his rematch clause 4 days after the Royal Rumble, but he came up short as the Undertaker’s music hit? When it looked like JBL would finish off Angle with his signature Powerbomb, the infamous ‘Gong’ played in the arena, as Bradshaw whipped around, leaving Angle unattended. As JBL turned around and walked to the centre of the ring, Angle tripped him up and locked him in the Ankle Lock, which made JBL tap out. Bradshaw was furious, which made him storm into Long’s office, demanding a rematch, with no interference. Teddy granted JBL his rematch, and it will be at No Way Out, with Kurt Angle defending his title against JBL, in a Barbed Wire Steel Cage! Also, JBL enlisted the help of his Royal Rumble opponent and now turned heel The Big Show to take care of the Undertaker, as Bradshaw was very scared of the Deadman. Another match was booked for No Way Out, with the 2 behemoths going at it, renewing the rivalry from a couple of years back. JBL was obviously scared of Taker, and he thought adding the Big Show to the Cabinet would solve the problem. Joy Giovanni, who is the manager of the 7 foot Giant, also went over to the Cabinet, turning heel in the process.
This would leave Smackdown without a Number 1 Contender for Wrestle Mania, until long made another huge announcement that night, saying that a tournament would take place, with the final being held at No Way Out. Booker T defeated Hardcore Holly, John Cena advanced after he defeated Bubba Ray, Eddie Guerrero defeated his nephew Chavo, and when it looked like the Big Show would advance as it looked like no one would stand up to him, BROCK LESNAR RETURNED! Brock managed to defeat the giant after an impressive Shooting Star Press, and Lesnar continued his streak by defeating Booker T in the semis, as we then crowned a new US Champion, with Eddie Guerrero defeating the former champ John Cena in their semi final match (Cena agreed to put it on the line, and the other tourney matches are non-title). Another match for NWO was set, and the main event for both brands for Mania would be set at the pay per view.
The inter-brand Money in the Bank ladder match was heating up, and 2 more of the participants were set, after a WWE Tag Team Title match, with two member of The Cabinet the Bashams trying to take the Tag Titles from the talented duo of RVD and Rey Mysterio. The Tag Team Champions Rey and RVD managed to put themselves into the massive ladder match and in the process retain their titles, after a combination of a 5 Star Frog Splash from RVD and a Dropping the Dime by Rey Mysterio to Doug. There would be a type of rematch at NWO, with the 2 teams battling it out again for the titles, but this time, D-Von and Bubba Ray of The Dudley Boyz were added to the mix! Also, a Battle Royal was added to No Way Out, with the winner being added to the Ladder Match at Wrestle Mania, having the chance to become the World Champion in the near future. The participants included John Cena, Billy Kidman, Booker T, Carlito Caribbean Cool, Charlie Haas, Chavo Guerrero and the last remaining member of the Cabinet Orlando Jordan.
The Cruiserweight Champion Funaki was continually defying the odds, defeating the likes of Spike Dudley (three times in a row), Paul London, the ‘Italian Stallion’ Nunzio and Shannon Moore. It was announced that at No Way Out, a man who had previously been in the WWE would return! (I am trying to increase the standard of the Cruiserweight division, as nowadays it is just a waste of time)Funaki was shocked at the announcement, as was everyone else in the arena. Various vignettes were then shown throughout the weeks leading up to NWO, and after Funaki had defeated Akio (also known to us in the future years as Jimmy Wang Yang), the vignette aired, with the inclusion of a man jumping off ladders and crashing through tables. Also, after the face turn of Kurt Angle, his Alliance broke up, as Luther Reigns doubted the ways of Angle, although Mark Jindrak defended his former mentor. The young tag team eventually blew up, and it eventually led to a massive brawl in the backstage area, and they made their way to the parking lot, still engaged in battle. The General Manager Theodore Long and the security team made their way to the parking lot, as Long made the final match for No Way Out, with Reigns and Jindrak battling it out, but since they can’t stay in the arena, it would be a PARKING LOT BRAWL!!!
WWE No Way Out!
WWE Tag Team Championships
Rey Mysterio and RVD vs. the Dudley Boyz vs. the Bashams
Rey pinned D-Von after a 619, followed by a Split Legged Moonsault from off the top rope. The Bashams were out after a 3-D each, and RVD and Bubba Ray were down after when the two men were fighting on the top rope, D-Von whipped Mysterio into them.
Parking Lot Brawl
Mark Jindrak vs. Luther Reigns
Jindrak pinned Reigns after Mark nailed his signature finisher The Mark of Excellence onto the hood of a Mustang. Reigns lay in the mixture of the glass, as the front window had been smashed. Jindrak looked on, as Reigns was taken out on a stretcher, never to be seen on a WWE screen again.
Cruiserweight Championship
Jeff Hardy vs. Funaki
Jeff Hardy returned to a rock-star ovation, and managed to defeat the obviously jobbing Funaki in a high paced, high flying match. Jeff won the match after a Whisper in the Wind, followed by a beautiful, picture-perfect Swanton Bomb of the top rope to win his first Cruiserweight Championship.
Money in the Bank spot Battle Royal
John Cena vs. Carlito vs. Billy Kidman vs. Booker T vs. Charlie Haas vs. Chavo Guerrero vs. Orlando Jordan vs. Akio vs. Hardcore Holly vs. Scotty 2 Hotty
John Cena booked himself in the final spot of the Money in the Bank Ladder match, after he last eliminated Booker T after an FU over the top rope. Here is the order of eliminations:
1. Orlando Jordan by everyone in the ring.
2. Scotty 2 Hotty by Booker T after a Side Kick.
3. Akio by Hardcore Holly after an Alabama Slam, followed by throwing him over the top rope.
4.Charlie Haas by Carlito after a Low Blow, then Chavo helping out by throwing Haas over.
5. Carlito by Chavo Guerrero after Chavo double crossed Carlito.
6. Billy Kidman after a Hurricanrana over the top rope from Chavo.
7. Chavo Guerrero by Cena and Holly by a double team, ending Chavo’s streak.
8. Hardcore Holly by a Booker T Book End, followed by throwing him over.
9. Booker T via FU over the top rope from Cena.
Raw Showcase Match
Number 1 Contenders Match
HBK vs. Edge
Shawn Michaels made himself in the Wrestle Mania main event once again, after he defeated his long time foe Edge after Edge’s brother Christian distracted Edge after he nailed an Edgecution. Christian claimed he was just watching, and when Edge turned around, he walked straight into Sweet Chin Music. HBK had no idea Christian had distracted Edge.
Undertaker vs. the Big Show
The Undertaker lost to the Big Show after the rest of the Cabinet, including JBL, interfered in the match, As The Bashams and Orlando Jordan distracted the referee, JBL nailed the Undertaker with a devastating Clothesline from Hell, and then one Showstopper later from the Big Show, and the match was all over. The Cabinet continued to assault Taker; until fire exploded from the ramp way and KANE came running down the ramp, fending off the rest of the Cabinet! The Cabinet backed off and smirked, as Kane checked on his brother.
Number 1 Contender’s Non-Title match
Brock Lesnar vs. United States Champion Eddie Guerrero
Brock Lesnar defeated Eddie Guerrero in a classic match, after a Chris Benoit distraction. When it seemed Eddie would make it to the main event after the Three Amigos, ‘Whatever’ hit and Benoit came down to the ring! Eddie and the referee looked around, long enough for Brock to get up and low blow Eddie with a forearm shot from behind! Brock then nailed Eddie with an F-5, and he won the match! Benoit entered the ring with Lesnar, raising his hand, getting massive heat from the crowd, making the 2 men officially heel!
WWE Championship
Barbed Wire Steel Cage Match
Kurt Angle vs. JBL
A Wrestle Mania XIX rematch was official, as Kurt Angle defeated Bradshaw for the third time in a row, after the Undertaker appeared through a trapdoor in the ring. The Cabinet were shocked to see that JBL was trapped inside the cage with Angle and the Undertaker, but as they tried to get in, the barbed wire stopped them! BRADSHAW WAS TRAPPED! JBL charged at Angle, only for the champ to kick him in the gut, throw him to Taker, who connected with the Tombstone Piledriver! Kane came down to ringside once again, making the Cabinet flee! Angle then managed to rip the padlock off of the cage door, but before he left the cage, he connected with an Angle Slam into the steel, before leaving the ring, being declared the winner. The Brothers of Destruction started beating down on JBL, but The Cabinet returned, prompting Angle, who was halfway up the entrance way, to come back and help them. As the faces started to take charge, Brock Lesnar appeared from behind Angle! F-5 TO ANGLE! The Cabinet then beat down on the BOD, and the show closed with the heels standing tall, with Lesnar holding up the WWE Title Belt.
Raw side of things between No Way Out and Wrestlemania 21.
The main event for Mania was set, with former DX partners and best friends going at it, with HBK facing off against HHH for the World Heavyweight Championship. HHH obviously had the advantage leading into the match, with him having the numbers on his side with Evolution, he was more fit due to HBK competing in the Royal Rumble match as well as 2 twenty minute matches, but most importantly, as found out 1 night after No Way Out, HHH had the General Manager Eric Bischoff on his side. One night after NWO, HBK was put in a match against Ric Flair and Batista and Triple H in a 3 on 1 Handicap match. HBK put up a great effort, but the numbers proved too much for Shawn, as the World Champion then finished him off with a Pedigree. Randy then came down to defend Shawn, but it was still 3 on 2, and Evolution stood tall. Bischoff, who was still on Evolution’s side, made a match for Wrestle Mania, making Ric Flair and Batista defend the titles against Randy Orton and a partner of his choice. It looked like Randy would not get a partner, as the week later after a 3 on 2 handicap match pitting all of these 5 men in action. When Evolution were beating down the winners after HBK rolled up HHH, some infamous music hit, called ‘IF YA SMELLLLLLLLL!’ Randy’s partner was none other than The Rock! HHH, Ric and Batista stood still to the spot, petrified, as The Rock sprinted down to the ring, and delivered punches to all of Evolution, knocking them down! Batista was first up, but was met with a Rock Bottom! Ric then got up, only to walk into a devastating RKO from Orton, and when HHH got up, he walked into The Rock, quickly turned around only for Orton to be there, and when he turned the other way, and HBK nailed him with a Sweet Chin Music! All these 6 men had a battle of team up-man-ship, and 6 days before the annual Wrestlemania, Evolution had the last laugh, with various belt shots to the heads of their Wrestlemania opponents. Triple H finished it all off with a thunderous Pedigree onto the World Title Belt to the Number 1 Contender of the World Championship. HHH then said that no-one took his World Title, and posed to thunderous heat, as the last ever Raw before Wrestlemania 21 went to a close!
At No Way Out, Christian Cage distracted his brother Edge, causing Edge to lose his chance of main eventing Wrestlemania. Edge caught up with Christian, although The Instant Classic continually said that he was out there to watch the match. Edge had effectively turned face in the feud, after spearing Christian out of his boots after Cage had the chance to be in the Money in the Bank match. Edge could then be seen saying “I was just watching”. The brothers erupted in a massive brawl the next week, as Bischoff’s assistant Johnny Nitro came towards them, saying that they could do this at Wrestlemania, making another huge match! The continued to fight after this announcement from Nitro, which prompted Bischoff to create a restraining order between the two, and that if they touched each other, they wouldn’t get a shot at the World Heavyweight Title again, and their match for Wrestlemania would be called off. Eric then said, to make it a little more interesting, that the match for ‘Mania would now be a match that the 2 had much experience in as E&C, the match would be a Hardcore Match!!! The two brothers then fought in one Hardcore Pick your Poison match each, with Christian defeating the new Smackdown Superstar Kane after The Big Show came down and delivered a Showstopper onto a trash can (more on them two later). Edge also won his Hardcore match, defeating Christian’s Problem Solver Tyson Tomko after an Edgecution through the announce table, as he took advantage of the Falls Count Anywhere rule, pinning him on the outside. Christian came out through the crowd, but he remembered the stipulation about no more title matches. Christian and Edge went face to face, but then Christian told his brother to turn around as Tomko threw a chair into Edge’s face, but as Edge caught it, Tyson nailed him with a Big Boot to the face, causing blood to pour down Edge’s face. 6 days before Mania, Christian clearly had the edge (no pun intended) over his brother.
The fourth and final match from Raw was set 3 weeks before the biggest Sports Entertainment event of the year, after Hassan was continually bagging America and saying how he was disrespected. Bischoff came out during one of Hassan’s promos, saying how he was sick and tired of Muhammad taking up air time, saying how USA was a bad country and that the reason he wasn’t on the card for Mania was because of behaviour like that. Hassan was outraged at the General Manager’s comments, and when it looked like Hassan would attack Bischoff, Eric quickly retreated, saying that Muhammad would get a spot at Wrestlemania, and his opponent would be revealed next week. On the next Raw, Hassan came out at the start of the show, demanding to know who his opponent will be for Mania. It turned out to be none other than the ‘Rattlesnake’ Stone Cold Steve Austin! The crowd went completely apeshit for the return of Steve, but his return celebration was short lived as Hassan began to attack Austin! Hassan then went for a Reverse STO, only for Austin to reverse by kicking him in the gut and nailing the Stone Cold Stunner! The next week, Hassan beat down Austin when he was thanking the fans, before locking the fan favourite in with the Camel Clutch, with his “turban” thing wrapped around his neck. Hassan then said 6 days before Mania that Austin would not be able to make it, simply because he was destroyed by Muhammad. Austin, however, turned up that night on Raw, as the two fierce traded verbal blows, which ended up turning into a huge brawl.
Smackdown side of thing from No Way Out to Wrestlemania 21
Kurt Angle vs. Brock Lesnar was set for Wrestlemania at No Way Out, after Brock defeated Eddie Guerrero to earn himself the WWE Title match. Lesnar was constantly bringing up how Lesnar defeated Angle for that very title at Wrestlemania XIX, as well as defeating Kurt in a 60 minute Ironman match. Lesnar defeated all of the Dudley Boyz in a 1 on 3 Handicap match, returning to his mean side, and winning after nailing 5 consecutive Powerbombs to Spike, as well as delivering a Spinning Spinebuster to Bubba Ray, before finishing off D-Von with a devastating F-5. Angle looked just as good the next week, as he defeated Rene Dupree and Kenzo Suzuki in a Tornado Handicap match, after he hit Rene with an Angle Slam, before making Kenzo tap out to an Ankle Lock after hitting him with a Moonsault. The two men then traded blows over the next the next few weeks, with one week Lesnar blindsiding Angle, but the next week Angle would return the favour and attack Lesnar from behind. 72 hours before Mania, a Contract Signing was announced, to create further hype for the already sure to be classic match. The two traded a war of words after signing (or scribbling on, whichever you prefer) their contracts, before it lead into another tussle between the two fierce rivals. Lesnar took control, as he had much more muscle and was more powerful than Kurt. After Lesnar went for a decapitating clothesline, however, Angle ducked under and went for the Angle Slam, only for Lesnar to elbow out, and then hit the a Belly to Belly Suplex through the contract table! It seemed to affect Lesnar as well, as champion and challenger were laid out as Smackdown came to a close!
The Cabinet and the Brothers of Destruction feud went into overdrive after No Way Out, as the BOD were constantly reminded of the aftermath of the main event of NWO, with The Cabinet destroying the deranged brothers. The Cabinet were also frequently saying how the two versed each other at Wrestlemania XX, as they took the BOD’s signature move by using mind games. When a tag match was taking place between Undertaker and Kane vs. Orlando Jordan and JBL, it looked like the brothers would snap, but much to the Cabinet’s dismay, the BOD nodded to each other, and nailed stereo Chokeslams to the Cabinet, keeping their alliance intact! Teddy Long then announced the next week on Thursday that he had created 2 more matches for Wrestlemania. One of the matches would be between the two behemoths of Smackdown, meaning Kane and The Big Show (future partners) would battle it out! Long then announced that in what is becoming a sort of Mania tradition, the Undertaker will once again put his Mania undefeated streak against the leader of the Cabinet, JBL!! Bradshaw is somewhat shocked; as Teddy goes on to say in fairness, that if any bit of the Cabinet gets involved in that match, they will be fired immediately!!! JBL then went rampant, but the Cabinet found a flaw in the plan, as Teddy said at Mania, but not before Mania. The Cabinet went on a mission to destroy Kane and the Undertaker, and the plan succeeded until the last week, as Kane and the Undertaker caught them off guard and beat the holy hell out of the Cabinet, delivering a Tombstone each to the Bashams, and a Double Chokeslam to Orlando, as Big Show and JBL managed to retreat up the ramp without harm. The BOD then did their signature arm pose, as fire came up from John, causing him to jump, as it now looks like the ball is in the BOD’s court!
The last Smackdown match for Wrestlemania was made only 10 nights beforehand. The wrestling community were still buzzing about the return of Jeff Hardy, but the whole Cruiserweight division were pissed off that Hardy got a title match without even having to earn it. Funaki was especially upset, as he was denied a rematch for the Cruiserweight title. Teddy Long then said that a Triple Threat Cruiserweight Title match would take place at Mania, with Funaki getting his shot at the title, as well as Jeff Hardy also being in the match, obviously. Long then announced that on that edition of Smackdown, there would be a Cruiserweight Open Battle Royal, which would determine the other Number 1 Contender for the Cruiserweight Title. It looked like the ‘Italian Stallion’ Nunzio had picked up the win after eliminating Spike with an impressive head-scissors over the top rope, but Carlito, who hadn’t been seen since the Battle Royal at NWO, came out of the crowd and nailed Nunzio with The Cool, followed by throwing him over the top rope, being declared the victor and the last competitor. 2 days before Mania, Jeff Hardy served as Special Guest Referee in a match between Carlito and Funaki, which ended in Carlito winning after a unique double knee backbreaker to Funaki’s back, and then putting his feet on the ropes, which Hardy didn’t see. Jeff then checked on Funaki after the match, only for Carlito to lift up Hardy and nail him with The Cool, as Carlito looked like a serious contender for the CW Title!
Inter-promotional Matches hype from No Way Out to Wrestlemania 21
The Money in the Bank competitors was set, as Cena took up the final spot on Smackdown. There were some run-ins on Raw, as a Triple Threat Intercontinental Title match was taking place. When it looked like Hardy would pick up the victory, the Smackdown competitors came running down, causing a three on three brawl, with the Smackdown superstars winning out, after obviously getting their Wrestlemania opponents off guard. Teddy Long and Eric Bischoff arranged an agreement to hype the MITB Match, which meant that all of the 6 competitors could appear on any of the shows. The first match of this agreement was a great match between RVD and Matt Hardy, with the WWE Tag Team Champion coming out on top after a scintillating Five Star Frog Splash from the top rope. The two brands traded victories every week, and on an edition of Smackdown, John Cena challenged the tag champs to a tag team title match, which they accepted, and the partner of John Cena was none other than Y2J Chris Jericho! Jericho and Cena, however, came out just short, after Rey victory rolled Cena for the victory. Jericho and Cena looked to have an alliance going on, as on the final episode of Raw before Mania, a three way Intercontinental Title Ladder match took place! Cena came down to aid his friend Jericho, only for RVD and Mysterio to come down once again, as the Smackdown Superstars then brawled through the crowd, making it an even playing field. Shelton ended up winning the match after Jericho took out Matt with a Lion Sault with the aid of a ladder, and Shelton then capitalized of an injured Jericho and unconscious Hardy, to climb up the ladder and retain the title. 3 nights later on SD!, a huge 6 man tag match was billed, with Raw Versing Smackdown, as Raw came out on top with Shelton Benjamin coming out the victor yet again as he quickly pounced up when RVD was attempting a 5 Star, and nailed him with a Superkick in mid air! Shelton posed, as he clearly had the advantage heading into what is perhaps the biggest Ladder Match in history!
A United States Title Inter-promotional Match was set, as the recently turned heel and Raw Superstar Chris Benoit challenged former best friend Eddie Guerrero to a United States Title Match for Mania. Eddie remembered what Benoit did at No Way Out and how he was denied 2 consecutive Wrestlemania main events, and Eddie accepted, creating a classic match for Mania! Benoit started reusing the Sharpshooter in his move set, defeating Eddie’s nephew Chavo with that very move. Benoit showed up on each show, defeating anyone who came in his way. Eddie had to defend his title against Cabinet member Orlando Jordan, and he defeated him with ease after a Three Amigos and a Frog Splash. Los Guerreros returned also, with the uncle and nephew combination doing well and managing to defeat the Basham Brothers after a Frog Splash from Chavo to Doug and one from Eddie to Danny. After the match, when the family were heading to the back, Benoit came out an attacked the 2 men, by slamming Eddie’s head into the SD! Set repeatedly. Benoit then went over to Chavo, who was out after being whipped into the set, AND BENOIT GERMAN SUPLEXED CHAVO OFF THE STAGE! Eddie then got up, looking at Chavo who was unconscious, his body lying amongst 5 tables. Eddie looked extremely worried, but before he could do anything, Benoit came up from behind him and locked in the Crippler Crossface! Benoit let go after a minute, frothing from the mouth. It seriously looked like the US Title could be heading to Raw for the first ever time.
WRESTLEMANIA 21
Triple Threat Cruiserweight Title Match
Jeff Hardy vs. Funaki vs. Carlito
The match started with each man staring each other down, as Jeff and Funaki looked at each other, and then started advancing on Carlito, but Carlito quickly rolled under the ring, and let the other 2 start off. Hardy threw a few punches at Funaki’s head, only for him to duck, and nail some stiff forearms, and then some kicks to the thighs of Jeff. Funaki quickly bounced off the ropes but Hardy reversed quickly came back in the ring to break up the bridge cover, as he then went outside again. This was common throughout the match, as Funaki and Jeff displayed great ability, but whenever someone went for the cover, Carlito would enter the ring and break it up, before quickly scurrying away, but this was soon changed. Funaki whipped Hardy across the ropes to where Carlito, and before ‘Lito could say ‘SHIT!’ Hardy catapulted himself over the ropes and hit a brilliant flip senton to Carlito. Jeff then threw him into the ring, where Funaki met him with a kick to the jaw, which was followed by a front face lock, and dragging Hardy to the corner, looking for a Tornado DDT. When he leapt off, he was thrown away from Jeff straight into Carlito, who nailed him with The Cool! Hardy then went to Carlito and threw a clothesline, but Carlito ducked under and went for the Double Knee Spine-breaker, but Hardy held onto the ropes, spun off Carlito and then nailed a Reverse Twist of Fate! Carlito and Funaki were then unconscious next to each other, as Hardy scaled the ropes and both of them with a Swanton Bomb! Hardy then double covered them, as Hardy remained the Cruiserweight Champion!
Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Muhammad Hassan
The match was a high standard match, with Hassan jumping Austin as he was coming down the entrance ramp, meaning the action started from the get-go. Hassan then whipped Steve into the steel steps, and then into the barricade, damaging the neck and back of Austin that Hassan attacked a couple of weeks ago on Raw. They eventually climbed into the ring, Hassan still in charge. Hassan then clotheslined Austin in the corner, and then connected with some shoulders to the gut, but when he went for a third, Austin ducked under and pushed Muhammad into the corner, before starting to drill him in the face with punches, as Hassan then fell to the mat. Austin then started stomping a ‘mudhole’ to Hassan, before giving him the 2 fingered salute, and started kicking him some more times. Later on in the match, after Hassan took control with a thumb to the eye, Austin looked to suffer a serious blow to the neck after a pullback Piledriver, and it looked to be the same as what happened with what happened to Austin after the Owen Hart accident. Hassan immediately climbed over for the cover, but Austin managed to kick out, although he still looked legitimately hurt. Hassan then attempted lifting up Austin, only for Austin to go for a Stone Cold Stunner, but Hassan pushed SCSA into the ropes, gave him and when he came back, Austin was low blowed, but the referee didn’t seem to care. Austin was then nailed with the Reverse STO! Hassan pulls off the shocking upset, as the referee smirks, and it turns out to be a mask. THE REFEREE WAS REALLY DAIVARI! The crowd give big heat, as the two men celebrate at the Granddaddy of Them All, as Austin is still holding his neck in pain.
Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Intercontinental Champion Shelton Benjamin vs. WWE Tag Champ RVD vs. “Y2J” Chris Jericho vs. John Cena vs. Matt Hardy vs. WWE Tag Champ Rey Mysterio
This match took MOTN honours, with many of extreme ladder spots. As soon as the bell rang, everyone except Matt Hardy got a ladder, as they then started brawling on the outside in the same spot, leaving the ladders on the floor. Hardy then went out onto the apron and jumped off with a crossbody on all of the other participants, and he then got a ladder and started climbing it, looking to pick up the early victory, only for RVD and Mysterio to enter and push the ladder down, but Hardy managed to land on his feet. The alliance of Jericho and Cena crumbled, as when Cena was about to climb the ladder, Van Dam kicked Chris, causing him to stumble back and knock off the ladder and crotch himself on the top rope! Cena, who didn’t see Rob kick Jericho, retaliated later on by FU’ing Jericho onto two stacked up ladders. An incredible spot was included in this match happened that had never been seen before, as Benjamin ran up a ladder that was leant on another ladder, and then clotheslined Matt Hardy off the top! RVD also did a death defying manoeuvre, nailing a Five Star from off the top of the ladder, and the match also included crazy stuff such as a Walls of Jericho to RVD inside a ladder, a Twist of Fate off of the ladder to Benjamin and a 619 with the aid of a ladder to Cena. Jericho also nailed a Lion Sault to the Tag Team Champions with a ladder each on top of them. The ending of the match came after Mysterio was thrown off the humungous ladder out onto the outside, and then Benjamin pulled off the unthinkable, nailing a sunset flip powerbomb to RVD off the ladder, causing RVD in the process to Superplex Cena off the ladder! Jericho and Hardy were the last 2 men on the ladders, as Hardy was on one and Jericho on the other. When Hardy went for another Twist of Fate off the ladder, Jericho managed to reverse, and after lots of struggling, managed to lock in a Walls of Jericho on top of the ladders, much like he did to Edge in the TLC match! While Hardy was still locked in the hold, Jericho released his arms and sat on Hardy’s back, before reaching up and unlocking the briefcase, being declared the victor!!!
Hardcore Match
Edge vs. Christian
This match was a brutal, blood-filled, gruesome match, with weapons such as ladders, tables, chairs, thumbtacks and barbed wire being used. Christian nailed a Falling Reverse DDT earlier on in the match, but then when he went for the Unprettier, Edge pushed him off the ropes and back dropped him into the thumbtacks!! That was when Edge rolled to the outside and grabbed a large box that he had obviously placed there, and when he got back in the ring, there were assorted barbed were objects, including Barbie and barbed wire steel chairs! Edge then got one of those chairs and placed it under Cage’s head, and then went for a Barbed Wire Con-Chair-To, but Tomko came rushing in, only to be met with a barbed wire chair shot to the head! Christian, however, had gotten up, and nailed Edge in the back of the head with another bag of thumbtacks, making all the pins dig in to the back of his head! The crowd yell in disgust, as Christian then goes outside the ring and gets the table, followed by sliding a ladder into the ring. As Edge was about to get up, Christian nailed Edge with the ladder, before setting up the table, and he then pulled two things out of his boot. It was a lighter and some lighter fluid!! Christian then set up the ladder in the centre of the ring, before setting the table on fire! Christian then lifted up Edge, as Christian climbed the side of the ladder nearest to the ladder, and then TRIED TO SUPLEX EDGE OFF THE LADDER THROUGH THE FLAMING TABLE! Edge managed to hold on to the ladder and then connected with some punches to the gut, before taking a big breath and SPEARED CHRISTIAN OFF THE LADDER THROUGH THE FREAKING TABLE!!! The crowd go completely apeshit, screaming out “HOLY F*^#!NG SHIT!” Edge is shivering (like he did at Mania 22 IRL), and manages to drape an arm over Christian, keeping his Mania streak intact.
WWE United States Championship
Chris Benoit vs. US Champ Eddie Guerrero
This match was a classic match, with incredible mat skills being displayed, as well as aerial attacks and various suplexes, with the heavily awaited bout going for over 20 minutes. Benoit used Eddie’s Three Amigos, but Eddie returned the favour by stealing Benoit’s rolling German Suplexes. Benoit countered Eddie’s attempt to clothesline him over the ropes, back dropping Eddie over instead. Benoit then went back, as he then saw Eddie recovering. Benoit then bounced off the ropes AND CONNECTED WITH A SUICIDE DIVE THROUGH THE SECOND ROPE!!! Benoit smirked, as he rolled Eddie back in the ring, and then he nailed the Rolling Germans! Benoit then did a cut throat taunt, as he headed up top. Benoit then leapt off for the Diving Headbutt, but nobody was home! Eddie then lifted up Benoit, and nailed a move he hasn’t used in years, the Splash Mountain (Sitout Crucifix Powerbomb)! Eddie then went out onto the apron and jumped onto the top rope, and connected with the Frog Splash! The US Title is staying on SD! After the match, Eddie was about to leave the ring, but he saw Benoit on the mat, writhing in pain and holding his neck. Eddie then swung his leg back in the ring, and went over to Benoit, and helped him up. Benoit and Eddie then looked at each other and nodded, before embracing in a hug, with shades of Wrestlemania 20! Benoit and Eddie left together, once again friends.
Big Show vs. Kane
The Battle of the Monsters of Smackdown was an all-out brawl, although it was a fairly sluggish match. The Cabinet minus JBL were on the outside, distracting Kane at every moment possible, although the referee didn’t make them go off, and Teddy Long didn’t come out and fire them as he said the JBL match, but not this match. In what seemed like revisiting Wrestlemania 3 18 years ago, as Kane managed to nail the 7 foot tall monster with a huge body slam. The Cabinet were amazed and had obviously under-estimated Kane, as their jaws dropped at the sight. A couple of minutes after the amazing body slam, Kane headed up top, looking for his signature Flying Clothesline, but The Bashams distracted the referee, as Orlando then hopped up onto the apron and nailed him with a steel pipe to the back of the head! Show then lifted up the dead weight of Kane, and finished off Kane with a signature Chokeslam, picking up the very important victory. After the (pun intended) BIG match, Amy, Joy, The Bashams, Orlando and Show stood tall, as the Chief of Staff and the Secretaries of Defence laid some occasional boots to the stirring Kane.
World Tag Team Championships
Randy Orton and The Rock vs. World Tag Team Champs Batista and Ric Flair
This match was another Wrestlemania standard match, with the legend The Rock making his long awaited in ring return, as well as Randy Orton getting his payback towards Evolution after being kicked out last year and being cost the World Title countless times. The unlikely team of Orton and The Rock nearly pulled off the shocking upset, after Orton delivered his old finisher the Overdrive to Batista, only for Flair to come in and break up what was sure to be a 3 count! It came back to bite the Evolution members in the arse, however, as after Flair delivered one of his famous Shin Breakers which was followed by a Back Suplex, The Rock placed Orton’s foot on the ropes, causing the referee to stop the count. Randy was the face in peril, and every time he got some momentum, Evolution would just shut him down. Finally, there was a break- through for Orton, as after Batista attempted a clothesline, Randy ducked under and nailed the signature Backbreaker! At the same time, Orton and Batista tagged in their respective partners, as the crowd erupt, finally getting what they wanted to see, Flair and the Rock facing off!! The two traded many blows, Flair chopping away at the chest of The Rock, whereas Rocky would hit Ric with punches. The Rock came out on top, and then hit his signature combo, and Flair then did the “Old Man Flop”. Flair got up soon after, only to be met with a Short Arm Clothesline from The Rock, followed by The Rock whipping him against the ropes and nailing a Back Body Drop when he got up. Later on in the match, Orton, who had by now recovered, was the legal man, and Flair was for Evolution. The action spilled to the outside, where Orton had now cleared the Spanish Announce Table. Orton then hopped up to the ring apron closest to where the tables where, and where Flair was, down after an Orton clothesline from inside the ring. Batista was recovering after The Rock hit him with a Rock Bottom, but was unable to make the cover as he was not the legal man, and The Rock was out after a low blow from Flair that went unnoticed by the ref. Orton had then lifted up Flair onto turnbuckles, facing him towards the tables. Orton then got Flair in a Super RKO position, LOOKING FOR A SUPER RKO OFF THE APRON THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE! When Orton was about to leap off, the recovered Batista quickly held onto Flair, and when Randy leapt, Flair was still on the top rope being held by Batista, AND RANDY ORTON CRASHED THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE FROM OFF THE APRON! Randy was spread eagled on the floor! The crowd is shocked at the death defying stunt, as The Rock has now gotten up, looking at his unconscious tag partner. Ric then catches a distracted Rock with a thumb to the eye! A blinded Rock turns straight around into a Batista Spinebuster! Batista then wins the match, although he wasn’t the legal man and neither was The Rock! After the match, Randy was taken out on a stretcher, as a very disappointed Rock followed.
Undefeated Streak on the Line
Undertaker vs. John Bradshaw Layfield
This match displayed great technical ability, and it also showed the doubters that JBL could still put on some great matches. JBL looked to have pulled off the shocking upset 8 minutes into the match, somehow finding enough strength to lift up Undertaker and nail him with one of his signature Powerbombs, although Undertaker had enough will power, as he managed to roll a shoulder up much to the dismay of Bradshaw but much to the delight of the crowd. 2 minutes after the Powerbomb, Undertaker finally took control, after he had been dominated by Bradshaw for most of the match apart from the early minutes. After the amazing kick out from Undertaker, a frustrated JBL then attempted a Clothesline from Hell, but Taker managed to nail him with a kick to the gut and nail a jaw dropping Chokeslam! Taker then climbed over for the cover, but somehow JBL found himself with his foot underneath the ropes, preventing the Undertaker from extending his streak to 13-0! By the time Undertaker had pulled JBL towards the centre of the ring and covered him once again, the “Self Made Millionaire” found it very easy to kick out. Taker then lifted up JBL and twisted his left arm, before walking him towards the corner, arm still twisted as John still writhing in pain. Taker then goes on to the turnbuckles and scales the ropes, as we see the crowd rise up behind him. Taker then connects with the Old School to a thunderous pop from the crowd! JBL then gets up, and is met with a Big Boot from Taker, followed by Taker bouncing off the ropes and nailing his nemesis with a leg drop to the throat! Taker then lifts up JBL and puts him between his legs, looking for his own signature powerbomb, the Last Ride! JBL, however, decides he needs a rest, and hops down and rolls out of the ring, near the entrance ramp. Taker, however, denies JBL, by bouncing off the ropes opposite and nailing his over the top rope, awe inspiring suicide dive! Taker then rolled JBL into the ring, and nailed him with a signature Tombstone Piledriver! Taker then did the Darkness Cover, and retained his perfect undefeated Wrestlemania streak, boosting it up to an astonishing 13 wins and 0 losses!
WWE Championship Match
Wrestlemania XIX Rematch
Brock Lesnar vs. The WWE Champion Kurt Angle
This was just like these two men’s match two years ago at Wrestlemania 19 and all of their previous encounters, an absolute classic match!! This match reached the near 25 minute mark, and was the 2nd best match of the night. Lesnar definitely had the advantage in the early going, using his amazing combination of strength and speed to wear down Angle, working on the ribs of Angle that Lesnar injured on the last Smackdown after the Belly to Belly Suplex through the table. The two men went through extreme measures just to beat the living hell out of each other, with Angle nailing a Moonsault off the top rope onto the outside, and Lesnar nailing a Shooting Star Press all the way across the ring. Speaking of the Shooting Star Press, this time there was no botch, as Lesnar nailed it right to the sternum of Kurt. There were also shocking kick outs in the match, with Lesnar managing to kick out of an Angle Slam, and Angle somehow managing to keep on to his title for the time being after kicking out of two simultaneous Spinning Spinebusters by Lesnar. After that shocking kick out from Angle, Lesnar started to get frustrated and threw everything he had at Angle, with a Belly to Belly Suplex, a Brock Lock and Powerbombs just some of the things that he did to Angle, but the ever resilient WWE Champion showed why he was an Olympic Gold Medallist by continually kicking out. Lesnar had had enough, and looked to go eventually for the dreaded F-5 to Kurt Angle, but Angle slid over the top of Brock’s shoulders, and nailed a German Suplex, but held onto the waist lock. Angle then rolled over, keeping the waist lock applied, before making his way back to a vertical base and nailing another German Suplex, followed by another 3, making it five rolling German Suplexes to the back and neck of Lesnar! Angle then got up, and let out an almighty roar, signalling it was the end! The crowd roared in approval for their American Hero, as the Olympic Gold Medallist pulled down the arm straps on his attire, which very often means he would be going for the Ankle Lock! Angle then went towards the ankle of the prone Lesnar, but Brock sensed the champ coming and kicked him off towards the turnbuckles. Lesnar then charged at him looking for a charging shoulder tackle, only for Angle to move and Lesnar to hit the metal ring post, and then Lesnar stumbled back into another Angle Slam from Angle, and Kurt then straight away dragged him into the centre of the ring and locked Brock in the Ankle Lock! Brock screamed in pain, desperately attempting to save his chances at once again becoming the champ by getting to the ropes, which would be his only saviour. Brock crawled towards the ropes gradually, and after a minute in the deadly hold, it looked like he would be saved by the ropes, only for Angle to know what was coming as he then pulled Brock back into the centre of the ring, and to now ensure victory, Angle grapevine the leg! Lesnar was stuck in the middle of the ring in immense pain!! Brock couldn’t hold on any more, as Brock had no choice but to tap out! After the match, Angle was handed the title with one hand above his head, with the other hand holding the injured ribs.
Wrestlemania Main Event
World Heavyweight Championship
Former Partners Collide
2005 Royal Rumble Winner ‘HBK’ Shawn Michaels vs. World Heavyweight Champion “The Game” Triple H
The highly anticipated main event finally came, after weeks and weeks of bickering and brawls, and with more than 10 years of history between the two highly talented men. The first 3 minutes was full of one up man ship, which is what they have been doing since Michaels won the Rumble. Many hammer locks were used, until there was finally an opening for Michaels, as HHH headed to the ropes when Shawn locked in his 5th arm lock. When he was forced to break the hold, HBK took a leaf out of HHH’s mentor Ric Flair’s book, delivering knife edge chops to the chest of his on and off friend and rival. HHH then headed to the corner, where HBK continued to chop, punch and kick away at the trapped HHH. The ball was in HBK’s court for the next 5 minutes, as he delivered various suplexes and aerial attacks to HHH, until one of his high risk manoeuvres proved very costly, as HHH managed to move away from an attempted Moonsault off the ropes to a standing HHH on the outside (exactly like HBK vs. Flair at Mania 24 IRL). HHH then worked on the legs of HBK, using submission moves such as the Indian Death Lock and the Figure Four Leg Lock to hurt HBK. HHH then whipped HBK off the ropes and nailed a signature Arn Anderson Spinebuster, crushing the ribs of HBK! When HHH went for the cover, however, Michaels managed to kick out, much to the frustration of HHH. HHH signalled for the end when he got up, and walked over to HBK, only for Shawn Michaels to nail him with a SWEET CHIN MUSIC! The crowd let out a thunderous ovation, as there is a new champion! 1...2...HHH somehow kicks out, as the fans are absolutely shocked! HBK gets up, wondering what he has to do, so he then goes to the corner, and begins to tune up the band! When Hunter gets up, HBK charges, but HHH ducks under, then spins Shawn around (as he was behind him), kicks him in the gut and nails the Pedigree! It looked like the two World Titles would be retained, but much like HHH did after HBK connected with his finisher the SCM, Shawn managed to somehow prevent the World Champion from victory as he found himself in a perfect position, under the ropes! HHH couldn’t believe his luck, and he lifted up HBK again and put him between his legs and applied the double underhook, looking for the Pedigree once again! Shawn predicted this move would come, however, and nailed a HHH with an Atomic Drop, followed by a body slam. HBK headed up top once again, although it looked like he would fall after his leg was still hurting him. He managed to steady himself, but it took too long as Hunter had recovered by then and climbed up to the second rope, where the two traded blow after blow, until HHH managed to duck under an attempted punch from Shawn, and locked him in the underhook, looking for a Super Pedigree from off the top rope! HHH then wasted no time and leapt off, but HBK was holding onto the ropes, so when HHH went off, he smashed his unprotected knees straight into the unforgiving canvas! HHH rolled around in the centre of the ring in pain, and HBK then leapt off and nailed him with a signature Flying Elbow Drop! HBK then tuned up the band one more time, and when a hurt HHH got up, he walked straight into a picture perfect Sweet Chin Music!! HBK is the new World Heavyweight Champion! HBK then had tears of joy in eyes, as he jumped into the crowd with HHH’s old World Heavyweight Championship belt. HHH was still laid out in the ring, as HBK hugged the fans, as he then made his way up to the top of the Wrestlemania 21 ramp, where he did his signature kneeling pose with the World Title wrapped around his shoulders, as pyro went off, with the vision of HBK still there with the title belt as Wrestlemania 21 came to an extraordinary close.
WWE RAW Roster:
Champions:
Shawn Michaels (World Heavyweight Champion)
Shelton Benjamin (Intercontinental Champion)
Batista & Ric Flair (World Tag Team Champions)
Trish Stratus (Women’s Champion)
Roster:
Al Snow
Batista
Candice Michelle
Chris Benoit
Chris Jericho
Christian
Christy Hemme
Daivari
Edge
Eugene
Gene Snitsky
The Hurricane
Johnny Nitro
Lita
Maria Kanellis
Matt Hardy
Maven
Molly Holly
Muhammad Hassan
Randy Orton
Ric Flair
Rhyno
Rob Conway
The Rock
Rosey
Shawn Michaels
Shelton Benjamin
Simon Dean
Stacy Keibler
Stevie Richards
Stone Cold Steve Austin
Sylvain Grenier
Tajiri
Triple H
Trish Stratus
Tyson Tomko
Val Venis
Victoria
Viscera
Personalities:
Eric Bischoff – RAW General Manager
Jerry Lawler – RAW Colour Commentator
Jim Ross – RAW PBP Announcer
Jonathan Coachman – Backstage Interviewer
Marc Lloyd – Backstage Interviewer
Todd Grisham – Backstage Interviewer
Stables
Christian & Tyson Tomko
Evolution (Batista, Flair, HHH)
La Resistance (Conway, Grenier)
Muhammad Hassan & Daivari
Regal & Eugene
Superheroes (Hurricane, Rosey)
WWE SmackDown! Roster:
Champions:
Kurt Angle (WWE Champion)
Eddie Guerrero (WWE United States Champion)
Rey Mysterio & Rob Van Dam (WWE Tag Team Champions)
Jeff Hardy (Cruiserweight Champion)
Roster:
Akio
Amy Weber
Big Show
Billy Kidman
Booker T
Brock Lesnar
Bubba Ray Dudley
Carlito Caribbean Cool
Charlie Haas
Chavo Guerrero
Danny Basham
Dawn Marie
Doug Basham
D-Von Dudley
Eddie Guerrero
Funaki
Hardcore Holly
Hiroko Suzuki
Jeff Hardy
John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield
John Cena
Joy Giovanni
Kane
Kenzo Suzuki
Kurt Angle
Lauren Jones
Mark Jindrak
Michelle McCool
Nunzio
Orlando Jordan
Paul London
Rene Dupree
Rey Mysterio
Rob Van Dam
Rochelle Loewen
Scotty Too Hotty
Shannon Moore
Spike Dudley
Torrie Wilson
The Undertaker
Personalities:
Josh Matthews – Backstage Interviewer
Michael Cole – SD! PBP Commentator
Steve Romero – Backstage Interviewer
Tazz – SD! Colour Commentator
Theodore Long – SD! General Manager
Tag Teams/Stables:
The Basham Brothers (Doug & Danny)
Big Show & Joy Giovanni
The Brothers of Destruction (Kane & The Undertaker)
The Cabinet (Amy, Basham Bros., Big Show, JBL, Jordan, Joy Giovanni)
The Dudley Boyz (Bubba, D-Von, Spike)
Rey Mysterio & Rob Van Dam
Rene Dupree & Kenzo Suzuki
All of my weekly shows will be in recap, as well as promos. My PPV’ s will be in full, however.
Here is my first post, complete with Backstory, Royal Rumble, No Way Out and Wrestlemania results, as well as rosters. Here is the massive backstory, all of its 25 pages and on the brink of 10,000 words!
WWE 2005: Rewriting History!
Backstory: We are back in 2005, before the WWE went crap, before the disastrous ECW came, before the tragedy of Eddie Guerrero, before the double murder suicide with Chris Benoit, and before the incredible, mega push of ‘Superman’ John Cena happened. Watch as I change the history of the WWE, changing the Royal Rumble, No Way Out and Wrestle Mania 21. Batista did NOT win the Royal Rumble, Kurt Angle became the WWE Champion, and HHH remained the World Heavyweight Champion, with the WWE Championship on Smackdown and the World Heavyweight Championship on Raw.
WWE Royal Rumble 2005
Shawn Michaels defeated Edge in 15: 37 when Edge was disqualified for refusing to stop kicking and punching away at Shawn who was in the corner, trapped.
After the match, Edge went for a Spear to HBK, but Michaels reversed into a devastating Sweet Chin Music, as HBK then posed for the crowd.
The Undertaker defeated Heidenreich in a Casket Match in 11: 52 after a Tombstone Piledriver off the apron into the casket.
After the match, the druids carried out Heidenreich while he was in the casket, only for The Undertaker to push Heidenreich off of the stage (Heidenreich will not return).
Kurt Angle defeated JBL and The Big Show for the WWE Championship in 19:52, after Kurt pinned JBL after an Angle Slam after the Big Show had been taken down from a Clothesline from Hell.
Kurt went and jumped into the audience after the match, with tears in his eyes. Kurt effectively turned face, as the crowd cheered on the new WWE Champ. Big Show is now in the Royal Rumble since he wasn’t pinned.
Triple H defeated Randy Orton in 13:17 to remain the World Heavyweight Champion after HHH nailed Orton with a Sledgehammer shot and then the Pedigree after the World Tag Team Champions Batista and Ric Flair distracted the referee.
Evolution then started bad mouthing the youngster, as HHH started screaming out that Randy would never take his title. Evolution then posed to big heat, with all gold wrapped around their waists.
Shawn Michaels won the Royal Rumble in 56:43 after last eliminating Batista after a Randy Orton distraction, enabling Shawn to Sweet Chin Music the back of Batista’s head to send him out of the ring.
Shawn then went on his hands and knees in the ring, soaking in the ovation from the crowd. Batista went on a rampage, chasing after Orton through the crowd, after ‘Tista entered at Number 30, he thought he had the match won after Shawn had already competed in a match earlier and had entered at number 10.
Raw side of thing between The Royal Rumble and No Way Out
Edge was angry that Shawn had managed to win the Royal Rumble, and that he (Edge) had picked such an early number. Since No Way Out is a Smackdown PPV, Eric Bischoff made a special request to Teddy Long to see if he could have a Raw Showcase match at NWO, between HBK and Edge, with the winner facing off against HHH at Wrestlemania 21! Speaking of HHH, HHH and the rest of Evolution were really pissed off since Randy cost Batista the Wrestlemania main event spot, but Randy was even more ticked off at Evolution as he was cost the World Title. After weeks of bickering and triple teams, Randy finally faced off against Batista, in a 15 foot high Steel Cage, six days before No Way Out. Batista managed to win after Flair handed Batista a steel pipe through the cage. Evolution started beating down on Randy, until Shawn Michaels and Edge came to save the day. All 6 men had a stare down, with HHH raising his title and constantly switching his gaze between Edge and HBK. During these weeks, Edge kept on catching up with his “brother” Christian, where Christian was obviously jealous that his brother could have the chance to main event The Granddaddy of Them All.
As Intercontinental Champion, Shelton Benjamin had many challengers coming his way, such as Chris Jericho and Matt Hardy. These three were continually putting on some fantastic matches, week after week after week. The 3 men were rewarded, as they were put into the first ever Inter-brand 6 Man Money in the Bank Ladder Match, where whoever grabbed the Briefcase would get a World Title match for whenever they want from Wrestle Mania 21 up until Wrestle Mania 22! Jericho had cashed in his rematch clause during this time for the Intercontinental Title, but when Jericho went for a Lion Sault, Shelton managed to roll out of the way, and the nailed Y2J with a very impressive 450 Degree Splash from the top rope!
It was revealed that Lita had only suffered a minor knee injury, which was not as serious as first thought. Lita returned 2 weeks after the Rumble, preventing the Women’s Champion from attacking Lita’s former foe but now friend Victoria. Trish was forced to defend her title against Lita, only for her to leave, and Lita won via count-out, therefore not winning the title. Also, at the Royal Rumble, Chris Benoit had a run in with long time friend Eddie Guerrero, where they embraced with a hug. During the Rumble, however, Eddie and Benoit were working as a team, until Eddie did a trademark move by eliminating Benoit behind his back! Benoit was obviously peeved off at Eddie, with Benoit then going on a rampage, and has been undefeated on Raw since the Royal Rumble, defeating the likes of Johnny Nitro and Rhyno. Lastly, Muhammad Hassan was continually saying how he was being continually disrespected by his superstars and the crowd since he wasn’t American. The crowd gave major heat for this, as Hassan even went as far as spitting on the USA flag!
Smackdown side of things between The Royal Rumble and No Way Out.
JBL was furious about losing the WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble, and he cashed in his rematch clause 4 days after the Royal Rumble, but he came up short as the Undertaker’s music hit? When it looked like JBL would finish off Angle with his signature Powerbomb, the infamous ‘Gong’ played in the arena, as Bradshaw whipped around, leaving Angle unattended. As JBL turned around and walked to the centre of the ring, Angle tripped him up and locked him in the Ankle Lock, which made JBL tap out. Bradshaw was furious, which made him storm into Long’s office, demanding a rematch, with no interference. Teddy granted JBL his rematch, and it will be at No Way Out, with Kurt Angle defending his title against JBL, in a Barbed Wire Steel Cage! Also, JBL enlisted the help of his Royal Rumble opponent and now turned heel The Big Show to take care of the Undertaker, as Bradshaw was very scared of the Deadman. Another match was booked for No Way Out, with the 2 behemoths going at it, renewing the rivalry from a couple of years back. JBL was obviously scared of Taker, and he thought adding the Big Show to the Cabinet would solve the problem. Joy Giovanni, who is the manager of the 7 foot Giant, also went over to the Cabinet, turning heel in the process.
This would leave Smackdown without a Number 1 Contender for Wrestle Mania, until long made another huge announcement that night, saying that a tournament would take place, with the final being held at No Way Out. Booker T defeated Hardcore Holly, John Cena advanced after he defeated Bubba Ray, Eddie Guerrero defeated his nephew Chavo, and when it looked like the Big Show would advance as it looked like no one would stand up to him, BROCK LESNAR RETURNED! Brock managed to defeat the giant after an impressive Shooting Star Press, and Lesnar continued his streak by defeating Booker T in the semis, as we then crowned a new US Champion, with Eddie Guerrero defeating the former champ John Cena in their semi final match (Cena agreed to put it on the line, and the other tourney matches are non-title). Another match for NWO was set, and the main event for both brands for Mania would be set at the pay per view.
The inter-brand Money in the Bank ladder match was heating up, and 2 more of the participants were set, after a WWE Tag Team Title match, with two member of The Cabinet the Bashams trying to take the Tag Titles from the talented duo of RVD and Rey Mysterio. The Tag Team Champions Rey and RVD managed to put themselves into the massive ladder match and in the process retain their titles, after a combination of a 5 Star Frog Splash from RVD and a Dropping the Dime by Rey Mysterio to Doug. There would be a type of rematch at NWO, with the 2 teams battling it out again for the titles, but this time, D-Von and Bubba Ray of The Dudley Boyz were added to the mix! Also, a Battle Royal was added to No Way Out, with the winner being added to the Ladder Match at Wrestle Mania, having the chance to become the World Champion in the near future. The participants included John Cena, Billy Kidman, Booker T, Carlito Caribbean Cool, Charlie Haas, Chavo Guerrero and the last remaining member of the Cabinet Orlando Jordan.
The Cruiserweight Champion Funaki was continually defying the odds, defeating the likes of Spike Dudley (three times in a row), Paul London, the ‘Italian Stallion’ Nunzio and Shannon Moore. It was announced that at No Way Out, a man who had previously been in the WWE would return! (I am trying to increase the standard of the Cruiserweight division, as nowadays it is just a waste of time)Funaki was shocked at the announcement, as was everyone else in the arena. Various vignettes were then shown throughout the weeks leading up to NWO, and after Funaki had defeated Akio (also known to us in the future years as Jimmy Wang Yang), the vignette aired, with the inclusion of a man jumping off ladders and crashing through tables. Also, after the face turn of Kurt Angle, his Alliance broke up, as Luther Reigns doubted the ways of Angle, although Mark Jindrak defended his former mentor. The young tag team eventually blew up, and it eventually led to a massive brawl in the backstage area, and they made their way to the parking lot, still engaged in battle. The General Manager Theodore Long and the security team made their way to the parking lot, as Long made the final match for No Way Out, with Reigns and Jindrak battling it out, but since they can’t stay in the arena, it would be a PARKING LOT BRAWL!!!
WWE No Way Out!
WWE Tag Team Championships
Rey Mysterio and RVD vs. the Dudley Boyz vs. the Bashams
Rey pinned D-Von after a 619, followed by a Split Legged Moonsault from off the top rope. The Bashams were out after a 3-D each, and RVD and Bubba Ray were down after when the two men were fighting on the top rope, D-Von whipped Mysterio into them.
Parking Lot Brawl
Mark Jindrak vs. Luther Reigns
Jindrak pinned Reigns after Mark nailed his signature finisher The Mark of Excellence onto the hood of a Mustang. Reigns lay in the mixture of the glass, as the front window had been smashed. Jindrak looked on, as Reigns was taken out on a stretcher, never to be seen on a WWE screen again.
Cruiserweight Championship
Jeff Hardy vs. Funaki
Jeff Hardy returned to a rock-star ovation, and managed to defeat the obviously jobbing Funaki in a high paced, high flying match. Jeff won the match after a Whisper in the Wind, followed by a beautiful, picture-perfect Swanton Bomb of the top rope to win his first Cruiserweight Championship.
Money in the Bank spot Battle Royal
John Cena vs. Carlito vs. Billy Kidman vs. Booker T vs. Charlie Haas vs. Chavo Guerrero vs. Orlando Jordan vs. Akio vs. Hardcore Holly vs. Scotty 2 Hotty
John Cena booked himself in the final spot of the Money in the Bank Ladder match, after he last eliminated Booker T after an FU over the top rope. Here is the order of eliminations:
1. Orlando Jordan by everyone in the ring.
2. Scotty 2 Hotty by Booker T after a Side Kick.
3. Akio by Hardcore Holly after an Alabama Slam, followed by throwing him over the top rope.
4.Charlie Haas by Carlito after a Low Blow, then Chavo helping out by throwing Haas over.
5. Carlito by Chavo Guerrero after Chavo double crossed Carlito.
6. Billy Kidman after a Hurricanrana over the top rope from Chavo.
7. Chavo Guerrero by Cena and Holly by a double team, ending Chavo’s streak.
8. Hardcore Holly by a Booker T Book End, followed by throwing him over.
9. Booker T via FU over the top rope from Cena.
Raw Showcase Match
Number 1 Contenders Match
HBK vs. Edge
Shawn Michaels made himself in the Wrestle Mania main event once again, after he defeated his long time foe Edge after Edge’s brother Christian distracted Edge after he nailed an Edgecution. Christian claimed he was just watching, and when Edge turned around, he walked straight into Sweet Chin Music. HBK had no idea Christian had distracted Edge.
Undertaker vs. the Big Show
The Undertaker lost to the Big Show after the rest of the Cabinet, including JBL, interfered in the match, As The Bashams and Orlando Jordan distracted the referee, JBL nailed the Undertaker with a devastating Clothesline from Hell, and then one Showstopper later from the Big Show, and the match was all over. The Cabinet continued to assault Taker; until fire exploded from the ramp way and KANE came running down the ramp, fending off the rest of the Cabinet! The Cabinet backed off and smirked, as Kane checked on his brother.
Number 1 Contender’s Non-Title match
Brock Lesnar vs. United States Champion Eddie Guerrero
Brock Lesnar defeated Eddie Guerrero in a classic match, after a Chris Benoit distraction. When it seemed Eddie would make it to the main event after the Three Amigos, ‘Whatever’ hit and Benoit came down to the ring! Eddie and the referee looked around, long enough for Brock to get up and low blow Eddie with a forearm shot from behind! Brock then nailed Eddie with an F-5, and he won the match! Benoit entered the ring with Lesnar, raising his hand, getting massive heat from the crowd, making the 2 men officially heel!
WWE Championship
Barbed Wire Steel Cage Match
Kurt Angle vs. JBL
A Wrestle Mania XIX rematch was official, as Kurt Angle defeated Bradshaw for the third time in a row, after the Undertaker appeared through a trapdoor in the ring. The Cabinet were shocked to see that JBL was trapped inside the cage with Angle and the Undertaker, but as they tried to get in, the barbed wire stopped them! BRADSHAW WAS TRAPPED! JBL charged at Angle, only for the champ to kick him in the gut, throw him to Taker, who connected with the Tombstone Piledriver! Kane came down to ringside once again, making the Cabinet flee! Angle then managed to rip the padlock off of the cage door, but before he left the cage, he connected with an Angle Slam into the steel, before leaving the ring, being declared the winner. The Brothers of Destruction started beating down on JBL, but The Cabinet returned, prompting Angle, who was halfway up the entrance way, to come back and help them. As the faces started to take charge, Brock Lesnar appeared from behind Angle! F-5 TO ANGLE! The Cabinet then beat down on the BOD, and the show closed with the heels standing tall, with Lesnar holding up the WWE Title Belt.
Raw side of things between No Way Out and Wrestlemania 21.
The main event for Mania was set, with former DX partners and best friends going at it, with HBK facing off against HHH for the World Heavyweight Championship. HHH obviously had the advantage leading into the match, with him having the numbers on his side with Evolution, he was more fit due to HBK competing in the Royal Rumble match as well as 2 twenty minute matches, but most importantly, as found out 1 night after No Way Out, HHH had the General Manager Eric Bischoff on his side. One night after NWO, HBK was put in a match against Ric Flair and Batista and Triple H in a 3 on 1 Handicap match. HBK put up a great effort, but the numbers proved too much for Shawn, as the World Champion then finished him off with a Pedigree. Randy then came down to defend Shawn, but it was still 3 on 2, and Evolution stood tall. Bischoff, who was still on Evolution’s side, made a match for Wrestle Mania, making Ric Flair and Batista defend the titles against Randy Orton and a partner of his choice. It looked like Randy would not get a partner, as the week later after a 3 on 2 handicap match pitting all of these 5 men in action. When Evolution were beating down the winners after HBK rolled up HHH, some infamous music hit, called ‘IF YA SMELLLLLLLLL!’ Randy’s partner was none other than The Rock! HHH, Ric and Batista stood still to the spot, petrified, as The Rock sprinted down to the ring, and delivered punches to all of Evolution, knocking them down! Batista was first up, but was met with a Rock Bottom! Ric then got up, only to walk into a devastating RKO from Orton, and when HHH got up, he walked into The Rock, quickly turned around only for Orton to be there, and when he turned the other way, and HBK nailed him with a Sweet Chin Music! All these 6 men had a battle of team up-man-ship, and 6 days before the annual Wrestlemania, Evolution had the last laugh, with various belt shots to the heads of their Wrestlemania opponents. Triple H finished it all off with a thunderous Pedigree onto the World Title Belt to the Number 1 Contender of the World Championship. HHH then said that no-one took his World Title, and posed to thunderous heat, as the last ever Raw before Wrestlemania 21 went to a close!
At No Way Out, Christian Cage distracted his brother Edge, causing Edge to lose his chance of main eventing Wrestlemania. Edge caught up with Christian, although The Instant Classic continually said that he was out there to watch the match. Edge had effectively turned face in the feud, after spearing Christian out of his boots after Cage had the chance to be in the Money in the Bank match. Edge could then be seen saying “I was just watching”. The brothers erupted in a massive brawl the next week, as Bischoff’s assistant Johnny Nitro came towards them, saying that they could do this at Wrestlemania, making another huge match! The continued to fight after this announcement from Nitro, which prompted Bischoff to create a restraining order between the two, and that if they touched each other, they wouldn’t get a shot at the World Heavyweight Title again, and their match for Wrestlemania would be called off. Eric then said, to make it a little more interesting, that the match for ‘Mania would now be a match that the 2 had much experience in as E&C, the match would be a Hardcore Match!!! The two brothers then fought in one Hardcore Pick your Poison match each, with Christian defeating the new Smackdown Superstar Kane after The Big Show came down and delivered a Showstopper onto a trash can (more on them two later). Edge also won his Hardcore match, defeating Christian’s Problem Solver Tyson Tomko after an Edgecution through the announce table, as he took advantage of the Falls Count Anywhere rule, pinning him on the outside. Christian came out through the crowd, but he remembered the stipulation about no more title matches. Christian and Edge went face to face, but then Christian told his brother to turn around as Tomko threw a chair into Edge’s face, but as Edge caught it, Tyson nailed him with a Big Boot to the face, causing blood to pour down Edge’s face. 6 days before Mania, Christian clearly had the edge (no pun intended) over his brother.
The fourth and final match from Raw was set 3 weeks before the biggest Sports Entertainment event of the year, after Hassan was continually bagging America and saying how he was disrespected. Bischoff came out during one of Hassan’s promos, saying how he was sick and tired of Muhammad taking up air time, saying how USA was a bad country and that the reason he wasn’t on the card for Mania was because of behaviour like that. Hassan was outraged at the General Manager’s comments, and when it looked like Hassan would attack Bischoff, Eric quickly retreated, saying that Muhammad would get a spot at Wrestlemania, and his opponent would be revealed next week. On the next Raw, Hassan came out at the start of the show, demanding to know who his opponent will be for Mania. It turned out to be none other than the ‘Rattlesnake’ Stone Cold Steve Austin! The crowd went completely apeshit for the return of Steve, but his return celebration was short lived as Hassan began to attack Austin! Hassan then went for a Reverse STO, only for Austin to reverse by kicking him in the gut and nailing the Stone Cold Stunner! The next week, Hassan beat down Austin when he was thanking the fans, before locking the fan favourite in with the Camel Clutch, with his “turban” thing wrapped around his neck. Hassan then said 6 days before Mania that Austin would not be able to make it, simply because he was destroyed by Muhammad. Austin, however, turned up that night on Raw, as the two fierce traded verbal blows, which ended up turning into a huge brawl.
Smackdown side of thing from No Way Out to Wrestlemania 21
Kurt Angle vs. Brock Lesnar was set for Wrestlemania at No Way Out, after Brock defeated Eddie Guerrero to earn himself the WWE Title match. Lesnar was constantly bringing up how Lesnar defeated Angle for that very title at Wrestlemania XIX, as well as defeating Kurt in a 60 minute Ironman match. Lesnar defeated all of the Dudley Boyz in a 1 on 3 Handicap match, returning to his mean side, and winning after nailing 5 consecutive Powerbombs to Spike, as well as delivering a Spinning Spinebuster to Bubba Ray, before finishing off D-Von with a devastating F-5. Angle looked just as good the next week, as he defeated Rene Dupree and Kenzo Suzuki in a Tornado Handicap match, after he hit Rene with an Angle Slam, before making Kenzo tap out to an Ankle Lock after hitting him with a Moonsault. The two men then traded blows over the next the next few weeks, with one week Lesnar blindsiding Angle, but the next week Angle would return the favour and attack Lesnar from behind. 72 hours before Mania, a Contract Signing was announced, to create further hype for the already sure to be classic match. The two traded a war of words after signing (or scribbling on, whichever you prefer) their contracts, before it lead into another tussle between the two fierce rivals. Lesnar took control, as he had much more muscle and was more powerful than Kurt. After Lesnar went for a decapitating clothesline, however, Angle ducked under and went for the Angle Slam, only for Lesnar to elbow out, and then hit the a Belly to Belly Suplex through the contract table! It seemed to affect Lesnar as well, as champion and challenger were laid out as Smackdown came to a close!
The Cabinet and the Brothers of Destruction feud went into overdrive after No Way Out, as the BOD were constantly reminded of the aftermath of the main event of NWO, with The Cabinet destroying the deranged brothers. The Cabinet were also frequently saying how the two versed each other at Wrestlemania XX, as they took the BOD’s signature move by using mind games. When a tag match was taking place between Undertaker and Kane vs. Orlando Jordan and JBL, it looked like the brothers would snap, but much to the Cabinet’s dismay, the BOD nodded to each other, and nailed stereo Chokeslams to the Cabinet, keeping their alliance intact! Teddy Long then announced the next week on Thursday that he had created 2 more matches for Wrestlemania. One of the matches would be between the two behemoths of Smackdown, meaning Kane and The Big Show (future partners) would battle it out! Long then announced that in what is becoming a sort of Mania tradition, the Undertaker will once again put his Mania undefeated streak against the leader of the Cabinet, JBL!! Bradshaw is somewhat shocked; as Teddy goes on to say in fairness, that if any bit of the Cabinet gets involved in that match, they will be fired immediately!!! JBL then went rampant, but the Cabinet found a flaw in the plan, as Teddy said at Mania, but not before Mania. The Cabinet went on a mission to destroy Kane and the Undertaker, and the plan succeeded until the last week, as Kane and the Undertaker caught them off guard and beat the holy hell out of the Cabinet, delivering a Tombstone each to the Bashams, and a Double Chokeslam to Orlando, as Big Show and JBL managed to retreat up the ramp without harm. The BOD then did their signature arm pose, as fire came up from John, causing him to jump, as it now looks like the ball is in the BOD’s court!
The last Smackdown match for Wrestlemania was made only 10 nights beforehand. The wrestling community were still buzzing about the return of Jeff Hardy, but the whole Cruiserweight division were pissed off that Hardy got a title match without even having to earn it. Funaki was especially upset, as he was denied a rematch for the Cruiserweight title. Teddy Long then said that a Triple Threat Cruiserweight Title match would take place at Mania, with Funaki getting his shot at the title, as well as Jeff Hardy also being in the match, obviously. Long then announced that on that edition of Smackdown, there would be a Cruiserweight Open Battle Royal, which would determine the other Number 1 Contender for the Cruiserweight Title. It looked like the ‘Italian Stallion’ Nunzio had picked up the win after eliminating Spike with an impressive head-scissors over the top rope, but Carlito, who hadn’t been seen since the Battle Royal at NWO, came out of the crowd and nailed Nunzio with The Cool, followed by throwing him over the top rope, being declared the victor and the last competitor. 2 days before Mania, Jeff Hardy served as Special Guest Referee in a match between Carlito and Funaki, which ended in Carlito winning after a unique double knee backbreaker to Funaki’s back, and then putting his feet on the ropes, which Hardy didn’t see. Jeff then checked on Funaki after the match, only for Carlito to lift up Hardy and nail him with The Cool, as Carlito looked like a serious contender for the CW Title!
Inter-promotional Matches hype from No Way Out to Wrestlemania 21
The Money in the Bank competitors was set, as Cena took up the final spot on Smackdown. There were some run-ins on Raw, as a Triple Threat Intercontinental Title match was taking place. When it looked like Hardy would pick up the victory, the Smackdown competitors came running down, causing a three on three brawl, with the Smackdown superstars winning out, after obviously getting their Wrestlemania opponents off guard. Teddy Long and Eric Bischoff arranged an agreement to hype the MITB Match, which meant that all of the 6 competitors could appear on any of the shows. The first match of this agreement was a great match between RVD and Matt Hardy, with the WWE Tag Team Champion coming out on top after a scintillating Five Star Frog Splash from the top rope. The two brands traded victories every week, and on an edition of Smackdown, John Cena challenged the tag champs to a tag team title match, which they accepted, and the partner of John Cena was none other than Y2J Chris Jericho! Jericho and Cena, however, came out just short, after Rey victory rolled Cena for the victory. Jericho and Cena looked to have an alliance going on, as on the final episode of Raw before Mania, a three way Intercontinental Title Ladder match took place! Cena came down to aid his friend Jericho, only for RVD and Mysterio to come down once again, as the Smackdown Superstars then brawled through the crowd, making it an even playing field. Shelton ended up winning the match after Jericho took out Matt with a Lion Sault with the aid of a ladder, and Shelton then capitalized of an injured Jericho and unconscious Hardy, to climb up the ladder and retain the title. 3 nights later on SD!, a huge 6 man tag match was billed, with Raw Versing Smackdown, as Raw came out on top with Shelton Benjamin coming out the victor yet again as he quickly pounced up when RVD was attempting a 5 Star, and nailed him with a Superkick in mid air! Shelton posed, as he clearly had the advantage heading into what is perhaps the biggest Ladder Match in history!
A United States Title Inter-promotional Match was set, as the recently turned heel and Raw Superstar Chris Benoit challenged former best friend Eddie Guerrero to a United States Title Match for Mania. Eddie remembered what Benoit did at No Way Out and how he was denied 2 consecutive Wrestlemania main events, and Eddie accepted, creating a classic match for Mania! Benoit started reusing the Sharpshooter in his move set, defeating Eddie’s nephew Chavo with that very move. Benoit showed up on each show, defeating anyone who came in his way. Eddie had to defend his title against Cabinet member Orlando Jordan, and he defeated him with ease after a Three Amigos and a Frog Splash. Los Guerreros returned also, with the uncle and nephew combination doing well and managing to defeat the Basham Brothers after a Frog Splash from Chavo to Doug and one from Eddie to Danny. After the match, when the family were heading to the back, Benoit came out an attacked the 2 men, by slamming Eddie’s head into the SD! Set repeatedly. Benoit then went over to Chavo, who was out after being whipped into the set, AND BENOIT GERMAN SUPLEXED CHAVO OFF THE STAGE! Eddie then got up, looking at Chavo who was unconscious, his body lying amongst 5 tables. Eddie looked extremely worried, but before he could do anything, Benoit came up from behind him and locked in the Crippler Crossface! Benoit let go after a minute, frothing from the mouth. It seriously looked like the US Title could be heading to Raw for the first ever time.
WRESTLEMANIA 21
Triple Threat Cruiserweight Title Match
Jeff Hardy vs. Funaki vs. Carlito
The match started with each man staring each other down, as Jeff and Funaki looked at each other, and then started advancing on Carlito, but Carlito quickly rolled under the ring, and let the other 2 start off. Hardy threw a few punches at Funaki’s head, only for him to duck, and nail some stiff forearms, and then some kicks to the thighs of Jeff. Funaki quickly bounced off the ropes but Hardy reversed quickly came back in the ring to break up the bridge cover, as he then went outside again. This was common throughout the match, as Funaki and Jeff displayed great ability, but whenever someone went for the cover, Carlito would enter the ring and break it up, before quickly scurrying away, but this was soon changed. Funaki whipped Hardy across the ropes to where Carlito, and before ‘Lito could say ‘SHIT!’ Hardy catapulted himself over the ropes and hit a brilliant flip senton to Carlito. Jeff then threw him into the ring, where Funaki met him with a kick to the jaw, which was followed by a front face lock, and dragging Hardy to the corner, looking for a Tornado DDT. When he leapt off, he was thrown away from Jeff straight into Carlito, who nailed him with The Cool! Hardy then went to Carlito and threw a clothesline, but Carlito ducked under and went for the Double Knee Spine-breaker, but Hardy held onto the ropes, spun off Carlito and then nailed a Reverse Twist of Fate! Carlito and Funaki were then unconscious next to each other, as Hardy scaled the ropes and both of them with a Swanton Bomb! Hardy then double covered them, as Hardy remained the Cruiserweight Champion!
Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Muhammad Hassan
The match was a high standard match, with Hassan jumping Austin as he was coming down the entrance ramp, meaning the action started from the get-go. Hassan then whipped Steve into the steel steps, and then into the barricade, damaging the neck and back of Austin that Hassan attacked a couple of weeks ago on Raw. They eventually climbed into the ring, Hassan still in charge. Hassan then clotheslined Austin in the corner, and then connected with some shoulders to the gut, but when he went for a third, Austin ducked under and pushed Muhammad into the corner, before starting to drill him in the face with punches, as Hassan then fell to the mat. Austin then started stomping a ‘mudhole’ to Hassan, before giving him the 2 fingered salute, and started kicking him some more times. Later on in the match, after Hassan took control with a thumb to the eye, Austin looked to suffer a serious blow to the neck after a pullback Piledriver, and it looked to be the same as what happened with what happened to Austin after the Owen Hart accident. Hassan immediately climbed over for the cover, but Austin managed to kick out, although he still looked legitimately hurt. Hassan then attempted lifting up Austin, only for Austin to go for a Stone Cold Stunner, but Hassan pushed SCSA into the ropes, gave him and when he came back, Austin was low blowed, but the referee didn’t seem to care. Austin was then nailed with the Reverse STO! Hassan pulls off the shocking upset, as the referee smirks, and it turns out to be a mask. THE REFEREE WAS REALLY DAIVARI! The crowd give big heat, as the two men celebrate at the Granddaddy of Them All, as Austin is still holding his neck in pain.
Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Intercontinental Champion Shelton Benjamin vs. WWE Tag Champ RVD vs. “Y2J” Chris Jericho vs. John Cena vs. Matt Hardy vs. WWE Tag Champ Rey Mysterio
This match took MOTN honours, with many of extreme ladder spots. As soon as the bell rang, everyone except Matt Hardy got a ladder, as they then started brawling on the outside in the same spot, leaving the ladders on the floor. Hardy then went out onto the apron and jumped off with a crossbody on all of the other participants, and he then got a ladder and started climbing it, looking to pick up the early victory, only for RVD and Mysterio to enter and push the ladder down, but Hardy managed to land on his feet. The alliance of Jericho and Cena crumbled, as when Cena was about to climb the ladder, Van Dam kicked Chris, causing him to stumble back and knock off the ladder and crotch himself on the top rope! Cena, who didn’t see Rob kick Jericho, retaliated later on by FU’ing Jericho onto two stacked up ladders. An incredible spot was included in this match happened that had never been seen before, as Benjamin ran up a ladder that was leant on another ladder, and then clotheslined Matt Hardy off the top! RVD also did a death defying manoeuvre, nailing a Five Star from off the top of the ladder, and the match also included crazy stuff such as a Walls of Jericho to RVD inside a ladder, a Twist of Fate off of the ladder to Benjamin and a 619 with the aid of a ladder to Cena. Jericho also nailed a Lion Sault to the Tag Team Champions with a ladder each on top of them. The ending of the match came after Mysterio was thrown off the humungous ladder out onto the outside, and then Benjamin pulled off the unthinkable, nailing a sunset flip powerbomb to RVD off the ladder, causing RVD in the process to Superplex Cena off the ladder! Jericho and Hardy were the last 2 men on the ladders, as Hardy was on one and Jericho on the other. When Hardy went for another Twist of Fate off the ladder, Jericho managed to reverse, and after lots of struggling, managed to lock in a Walls of Jericho on top of the ladders, much like he did to Edge in the TLC match! While Hardy was still locked in the hold, Jericho released his arms and sat on Hardy’s back, before reaching up and unlocking the briefcase, being declared the victor!!!
Hardcore Match
Edge vs. Christian
This match was a brutal, blood-filled, gruesome match, with weapons such as ladders, tables, chairs, thumbtacks and barbed wire being used. Christian nailed a Falling Reverse DDT earlier on in the match, but then when he went for the Unprettier, Edge pushed him off the ropes and back dropped him into the thumbtacks!! That was when Edge rolled to the outside and grabbed a large box that he had obviously placed there, and when he got back in the ring, there were assorted barbed were objects, including Barbie and barbed wire steel chairs! Edge then got one of those chairs and placed it under Cage’s head, and then went for a Barbed Wire Con-Chair-To, but Tomko came rushing in, only to be met with a barbed wire chair shot to the head! Christian, however, had gotten up, and nailed Edge in the back of the head with another bag of thumbtacks, making all the pins dig in to the back of his head! The crowd yell in disgust, as Christian then goes outside the ring and gets the table, followed by sliding a ladder into the ring. As Edge was about to get up, Christian nailed Edge with the ladder, before setting up the table, and he then pulled two things out of his boot. It was a lighter and some lighter fluid!! Christian then set up the ladder in the centre of the ring, before setting the table on fire! Christian then lifted up Edge, as Christian climbed the side of the ladder nearest to the ladder, and then TRIED TO SUPLEX EDGE OFF THE LADDER THROUGH THE FLAMING TABLE! Edge managed to hold on to the ladder and then connected with some punches to the gut, before taking a big breath and SPEARED CHRISTIAN OFF THE LADDER THROUGH THE FREAKING TABLE!!! The crowd go completely apeshit, screaming out “HOLY F*^#!NG SHIT!” Edge is shivering (like he did at Mania 22 IRL), and manages to drape an arm over Christian, keeping his Mania streak intact.
WWE United States Championship
Chris Benoit vs. US Champ Eddie Guerrero
This match was a classic match, with incredible mat skills being displayed, as well as aerial attacks and various suplexes, with the heavily awaited bout going for over 20 minutes. Benoit used Eddie’s Three Amigos, but Eddie returned the favour by stealing Benoit’s rolling German Suplexes. Benoit countered Eddie’s attempt to clothesline him over the ropes, back dropping Eddie over instead. Benoit then went back, as he then saw Eddie recovering. Benoit then bounced off the ropes AND CONNECTED WITH A SUICIDE DIVE THROUGH THE SECOND ROPE!!! Benoit smirked, as he rolled Eddie back in the ring, and then he nailed the Rolling Germans! Benoit then did a cut throat taunt, as he headed up top. Benoit then leapt off for the Diving Headbutt, but nobody was home! Eddie then lifted up Benoit, and nailed a move he hasn’t used in years, the Splash Mountain (Sitout Crucifix Powerbomb)! Eddie then went out onto the apron and jumped onto the top rope, and connected with the Frog Splash! The US Title is staying on SD! After the match, Eddie was about to leave the ring, but he saw Benoit on the mat, writhing in pain and holding his neck. Eddie then swung his leg back in the ring, and went over to Benoit, and helped him up. Benoit and Eddie then looked at each other and nodded, before embracing in a hug, with shades of Wrestlemania 20! Benoit and Eddie left together, once again friends.
Big Show vs. Kane
The Battle of the Monsters of Smackdown was an all-out brawl, although it was a fairly sluggish match. The Cabinet minus JBL were on the outside, distracting Kane at every moment possible, although the referee didn’t make them go off, and Teddy Long didn’t come out and fire them as he said the JBL match, but not this match. In what seemed like revisiting Wrestlemania 3 18 years ago, as Kane managed to nail the 7 foot tall monster with a huge body slam. The Cabinet were amazed and had obviously under-estimated Kane, as their jaws dropped at the sight. A couple of minutes after the amazing body slam, Kane headed up top, looking for his signature Flying Clothesline, but The Bashams distracted the referee, as Orlando then hopped up onto the apron and nailed him with a steel pipe to the back of the head! Show then lifted up the dead weight of Kane, and finished off Kane with a signature Chokeslam, picking up the very important victory. After the (pun intended) BIG match, Amy, Joy, The Bashams, Orlando and Show stood tall, as the Chief of Staff and the Secretaries of Defence laid some occasional boots to the stirring Kane.
World Tag Team Championships
Randy Orton and The Rock vs. World Tag Team Champs Batista and Ric Flair
This match was another Wrestlemania standard match, with the legend The Rock making his long awaited in ring return, as well as Randy Orton getting his payback towards Evolution after being kicked out last year and being cost the World Title countless times. The unlikely team of Orton and The Rock nearly pulled off the shocking upset, after Orton delivered his old finisher the Overdrive to Batista, only for Flair to come in and break up what was sure to be a 3 count! It came back to bite the Evolution members in the arse, however, as after Flair delivered one of his famous Shin Breakers which was followed by a Back Suplex, The Rock placed Orton’s foot on the ropes, causing the referee to stop the count. Randy was the face in peril, and every time he got some momentum, Evolution would just shut him down. Finally, there was a break- through for Orton, as after Batista attempted a clothesline, Randy ducked under and nailed the signature Backbreaker! At the same time, Orton and Batista tagged in their respective partners, as the crowd erupt, finally getting what they wanted to see, Flair and the Rock facing off!! The two traded many blows, Flair chopping away at the chest of The Rock, whereas Rocky would hit Ric with punches. The Rock came out on top, and then hit his signature combo, and Flair then did the “Old Man Flop”. Flair got up soon after, only to be met with a Short Arm Clothesline from The Rock, followed by The Rock whipping him against the ropes and nailing a Back Body Drop when he got up. Later on in the match, Orton, who had by now recovered, was the legal man, and Flair was for Evolution. The action spilled to the outside, where Orton had now cleared the Spanish Announce Table. Orton then hopped up to the ring apron closest to where the tables where, and where Flair was, down after an Orton clothesline from inside the ring. Batista was recovering after The Rock hit him with a Rock Bottom, but was unable to make the cover as he was not the legal man, and The Rock was out after a low blow from Flair that went unnoticed by the ref. Orton had then lifted up Flair onto turnbuckles, facing him towards the tables. Orton then got Flair in a Super RKO position, LOOKING FOR A SUPER RKO OFF THE APRON THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE! When Orton was about to leap off, the recovered Batista quickly held onto Flair, and when Randy leapt, Flair was still on the top rope being held by Batista, AND RANDY ORTON CRASHED THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE FROM OFF THE APRON! Randy was spread eagled on the floor! The crowd is shocked at the death defying stunt, as The Rock has now gotten up, looking at his unconscious tag partner. Ric then catches a distracted Rock with a thumb to the eye! A blinded Rock turns straight around into a Batista Spinebuster! Batista then wins the match, although he wasn’t the legal man and neither was The Rock! After the match, Randy was taken out on a stretcher, as a very disappointed Rock followed.
Undefeated Streak on the Line
Undertaker vs. John Bradshaw Layfield
This match displayed great technical ability, and it also showed the doubters that JBL could still put on some great matches. JBL looked to have pulled off the shocking upset 8 minutes into the match, somehow finding enough strength to lift up Undertaker and nail him with one of his signature Powerbombs, although Undertaker had enough will power, as he managed to roll a shoulder up much to the dismay of Bradshaw but much to the delight of the crowd. 2 minutes after the Powerbomb, Undertaker finally took control, after he had been dominated by Bradshaw for most of the match apart from the early minutes. After the amazing kick out from Undertaker, a frustrated JBL then attempted a Clothesline from Hell, but Taker managed to nail him with a kick to the gut and nail a jaw dropping Chokeslam! Taker then climbed over for the cover, but somehow JBL found himself with his foot underneath the ropes, preventing the Undertaker from extending his streak to 13-0! By the time Undertaker had pulled JBL towards the centre of the ring and covered him once again, the “Self Made Millionaire” found it very easy to kick out. Taker then lifted up JBL and twisted his left arm, before walking him towards the corner, arm still twisted as John still writhing in pain. Taker then goes on to the turnbuckles and scales the ropes, as we see the crowd rise up behind him. Taker then connects with the Old School to a thunderous pop from the crowd! JBL then gets up, and is met with a Big Boot from Taker, followed by Taker bouncing off the ropes and nailing his nemesis with a leg drop to the throat! Taker then lifts up JBL and puts him between his legs, looking for his own signature powerbomb, the Last Ride! JBL, however, decides he needs a rest, and hops down and rolls out of the ring, near the entrance ramp. Taker, however, denies JBL, by bouncing off the ropes opposite and nailing his over the top rope, awe inspiring suicide dive! Taker then rolled JBL into the ring, and nailed him with a signature Tombstone Piledriver! Taker then did the Darkness Cover, and retained his perfect undefeated Wrestlemania streak, boosting it up to an astonishing 13 wins and 0 losses!
WWE Championship Match
Wrestlemania XIX Rematch
Brock Lesnar vs. The WWE Champion Kurt Angle
This was just like these two men’s match two years ago at Wrestlemania 19 and all of their previous encounters, an absolute classic match!! This match reached the near 25 minute mark, and was the 2nd best match of the night. Lesnar definitely had the advantage in the early going, using his amazing combination of strength and speed to wear down Angle, working on the ribs of Angle that Lesnar injured on the last Smackdown after the Belly to Belly Suplex through the table. The two men went through extreme measures just to beat the living hell out of each other, with Angle nailing a Moonsault off the top rope onto the outside, and Lesnar nailing a Shooting Star Press all the way across the ring. Speaking of the Shooting Star Press, this time there was no botch, as Lesnar nailed it right to the sternum of Kurt. There were also shocking kick outs in the match, with Lesnar managing to kick out of an Angle Slam, and Angle somehow managing to keep on to his title for the time being after kicking out of two simultaneous Spinning Spinebusters by Lesnar. After that shocking kick out from Angle, Lesnar started to get frustrated and threw everything he had at Angle, with a Belly to Belly Suplex, a Brock Lock and Powerbombs just some of the things that he did to Angle, but the ever resilient WWE Champion showed why he was an Olympic Gold Medallist by continually kicking out. Lesnar had had enough, and looked to go eventually for the dreaded F-5 to Kurt Angle, but Angle slid over the top of Brock’s shoulders, and nailed a German Suplex, but held onto the waist lock. Angle then rolled over, keeping the waist lock applied, before making his way back to a vertical base and nailing another German Suplex, followed by another 3, making it five rolling German Suplexes to the back and neck of Lesnar! Angle then got up, and let out an almighty roar, signalling it was the end! The crowd roared in approval for their American Hero, as the Olympic Gold Medallist pulled down the arm straps on his attire, which very often means he would be going for the Ankle Lock! Angle then went towards the ankle of the prone Lesnar, but Brock sensed the champ coming and kicked him off towards the turnbuckles. Lesnar then charged at him looking for a charging shoulder tackle, only for Angle to move and Lesnar to hit the metal ring post, and then Lesnar stumbled back into another Angle Slam from Angle, and Kurt then straight away dragged him into the centre of the ring and locked Brock in the Ankle Lock! Brock screamed in pain, desperately attempting to save his chances at once again becoming the champ by getting to the ropes, which would be his only saviour. Brock crawled towards the ropes gradually, and after a minute in the deadly hold, it looked like he would be saved by the ropes, only for Angle to know what was coming as he then pulled Brock back into the centre of the ring, and to now ensure victory, Angle grapevine the leg! Lesnar was stuck in the middle of the ring in immense pain!! Brock couldn’t hold on any more, as Brock had no choice but to tap out! After the match, Angle was handed the title with one hand above his head, with the other hand holding the injured ribs.
Wrestlemania Main Event
World Heavyweight Championship
Former Partners Collide
2005 Royal Rumble Winner ‘HBK’ Shawn Michaels vs. World Heavyweight Champion “The Game” Triple H
The highly anticipated main event finally came, after weeks and weeks of bickering and brawls, and with more than 10 years of history between the two highly talented men. The first 3 minutes was full of one up man ship, which is what they have been doing since Michaels won the Rumble. Many hammer locks were used, until there was finally an opening for Michaels, as HHH headed to the ropes when Shawn locked in his 5th arm lock. When he was forced to break the hold, HBK took a leaf out of HHH’s mentor Ric Flair’s book, delivering knife edge chops to the chest of his on and off friend and rival. HHH then headed to the corner, where HBK continued to chop, punch and kick away at the trapped HHH. The ball was in HBK’s court for the next 5 minutes, as he delivered various suplexes and aerial attacks to HHH, until one of his high risk manoeuvres proved very costly, as HHH managed to move away from an attempted Moonsault off the ropes to a standing HHH on the outside (exactly like HBK vs. Flair at Mania 24 IRL). HHH then worked on the legs of HBK, using submission moves such as the Indian Death Lock and the Figure Four Leg Lock to hurt HBK. HHH then whipped HBK off the ropes and nailed a signature Arn Anderson Spinebuster, crushing the ribs of HBK! When HHH went for the cover, however, Michaels managed to kick out, much to the frustration of HHH. HHH signalled for the end when he got up, and walked over to HBK, only for Shawn Michaels to nail him with a SWEET CHIN MUSIC! The crowd let out a thunderous ovation, as there is a new champion! 1...2...HHH somehow kicks out, as the fans are absolutely shocked! HBK gets up, wondering what he has to do, so he then goes to the corner, and begins to tune up the band! When Hunter gets up, HBK charges, but HHH ducks under, then spins Shawn around (as he was behind him), kicks him in the gut and nails the Pedigree! It looked like the two World Titles would be retained, but much like HHH did after HBK connected with his finisher the SCM, Shawn managed to somehow prevent the World Champion from victory as he found himself in a perfect position, under the ropes! HHH couldn’t believe his luck, and he lifted up HBK again and put him between his legs and applied the double underhook, looking for the Pedigree once again! Shawn predicted this move would come, however, and nailed a HHH with an Atomic Drop, followed by a body slam. HBK headed up top once again, although it looked like he would fall after his leg was still hurting him. He managed to steady himself, but it took too long as Hunter had recovered by then and climbed up to the second rope, where the two traded blow after blow, until HHH managed to duck under an attempted punch from Shawn, and locked him in the underhook, looking for a Super Pedigree from off the top rope! HHH then wasted no time and leapt off, but HBK was holding onto the ropes, so when HHH went off, he smashed his unprotected knees straight into the unforgiving canvas! HHH rolled around in the centre of the ring in pain, and HBK then leapt off and nailed him with a signature Flying Elbow Drop! HBK then tuned up the band one more time, and when a hurt HHH got up, he walked straight into a picture perfect Sweet Chin Music!! HBK is the new World Heavyweight Champion! HBK then had tears of joy in eyes, as he jumped into the crowd with HHH’s old World Heavyweight Championship belt. HHH was still laid out in the ring, as HBK hugged the fans, as he then made his way up to the top of the Wrestlemania 21 ramp, where he did his signature kneeling pose with the World Title wrapped around his shoulders, as pyro went off, with the vision of HBK still there with the title belt as Wrestlemania 21 came to an extraordinary close.
WWE RAW Roster:
Champions:
Shawn Michaels (World Heavyweight Champion)
Shelton Benjamin (Intercontinental Champion)
Batista & Ric Flair (World Tag Team Champions)
Trish Stratus (Women’s Champion)
Roster:
Al Snow
Batista
Candice Michelle
Chris Benoit
Chris Jericho
Christian
Christy Hemme
Daivari
Edge
Eugene
Gene Snitsky
The Hurricane
Johnny Nitro
Lita
Maria Kanellis
Matt Hardy
Maven
Molly Holly
Muhammad Hassan
Randy Orton
Ric Flair
Rhyno
Rob Conway
The Rock
Rosey
Shawn Michaels
Shelton Benjamin
Simon Dean
Stacy Keibler
Stevie Richards
Stone Cold Steve Austin
Sylvain Grenier
Tajiri
Triple H
Trish Stratus
Tyson Tomko
Val Venis
Victoria
Viscera
Personalities:
Eric Bischoff – RAW General Manager
Jerry Lawler – RAW Colour Commentator
Jim Ross – RAW PBP Announcer
Jonathan Coachman – Backstage Interviewer
Marc Lloyd – Backstage Interviewer
Todd Grisham – Backstage Interviewer
Stables
Christian & Tyson Tomko
Evolution (Batista, Flair, HHH)
La Resistance (Conway, Grenier)
Muhammad Hassan & Daivari
Regal & Eugene
Superheroes (Hurricane, Rosey)
WWE SmackDown! Roster:
Champions:
Kurt Angle (WWE Champion)
Eddie Guerrero (WWE United States Champion)
Rey Mysterio & Rob Van Dam (WWE Tag Team Champions)
Jeff Hardy (Cruiserweight Champion)
Roster:
Akio
Amy Weber
Big Show
Billy Kidman
Booker T
Brock Lesnar
Bubba Ray Dudley
Carlito Caribbean Cool
Charlie Haas
Chavo Guerrero
Danny Basham
Dawn Marie
Doug Basham
D-Von Dudley
Eddie Guerrero
Funaki
Hardcore Holly
Hiroko Suzuki
Jeff Hardy
John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield
John Cena
Joy Giovanni
Kane
Kenzo Suzuki
Kurt Angle
Lauren Jones
Mark Jindrak
Michelle McCool
Nunzio
Orlando Jordan
Paul London
Rene Dupree
Rey Mysterio
Rob Van Dam
Rochelle Loewen
Scotty Too Hotty
Shannon Moore
Spike Dudley
Torrie Wilson
The Undertaker
Personalities:
Josh Matthews – Backstage Interviewer
Michael Cole – SD! PBP Commentator
Steve Romero – Backstage Interviewer
Tazz – SD! Colour Commentator
Theodore Long – SD! General Manager
Tag Teams/Stables:
The Basham Brothers (Doug & Danny)
Big Show & Joy Giovanni
The Brothers of Destruction (Kane & The Undertaker)
The Cabinet (Amy, Basham Bros., Big Show, JBL, Jordan, Joy Giovanni)
The Dudley Boyz (Bubba, D-Von, Spike)
Rey Mysterio & Rob Van Dam
Rene Dupree & Kenzo Suzuki
All of my weekly shows will be in recap, as well as promos. My PPV’ s will be in full, however.
