WWE: Unleash the Fury - The Return

[KOP]

WWE News & Notes

WWE Announces Release of Brent Albright

WWE announced earlier today that they have come to terms on the release of Brent Albright. Albright had wrestled on SmackDown since 2007 but had been off of television due to injury. It was speculated he was set to return late December 2007 or early January 2008 in preparation for the Royal Rumble but clearly those plans never occurred. WWE wishes Albright the best in his future endeavors

Future of Returning Superstars in Royal Rumble Match

A trio of superstars made their shocking returns to the WWE including Booker T, Rhyno, and Bobby Lashley. Booker T and Bobby Lashley were in the WWE just last year but had left to take time off (Booker T) and due to contractual issues (Lashley). Lashley is expected to go back to SmackDown after having negotiated a new contract. Booker T is currently believed to be a one off return but expectations are in the WWE that he will be back full time soon. As for Rhyno - it was stated that it was very surprising he wasn’t invited back for the ECW revival but he was still under contract with TNA. Rhyno’s contract recently came to an end which opened up a return to the WWE and it is said he will be appearing regularly soon on television.

WrestleMania 25 Location Finalists Revealed

Twenty five years of WrestleMania will be celebrated next year as the WWE hosts the 25th version of the entertainment spectacle. Eight cities have been revealed as finalists for the biggest event of the year. The eight finalists vying to be the host city of WrestleMania XXV are Reliant Stadium (Houston, TX), Louisiana Superdome (New Orleans, LA), Georgia Dome (Atlanta, Georgia), Ford Field (Detroit, MI), Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA), Raymond James Stadium (Tampa Bay, FL), Edward Jones Dome (St. Louis, MO), and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum (Los Angeles, CA).

Houston (WM 17), Detroit (WM 3), Philadelphia (WM 14), and Los Angeles (WM 2, 7, and 21) are all previous hosts of WrestleMania so it is rather telling that four of the eight are previous hosts. The host will be announced at this year’s WrestleMania

New Pay-Per-View Schedule Announced for 2008

Today the WWE has announced their newly revised Pay-Per-View schedule for the upcoming 2008 year. The new schedule has minimal changes but one noticeable change is the return of the former event - King of the Ring. WWE has thirteen events planned for the 2008 calendar year with the Big Four (Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series) being joined by King of the Ring as the five interpromotional events to be co-hosted by Raw and SmackDown. Additionally, Raw will have four branded events (Backlash, Vengeance, Unforgiven, and Armageddon) while SmackDown will host (No Way Out, Judgment Day, Retribution, and No Mercy).

Most notably the changes to the 2008 PPV schedule are the removal of Night of Champions and The Great American Bash in favor of King of the Ring and Retribution. Cyber Sunday has also been removed and not replaced by another PPV in October. It is believed that WWE will simply instead run an interactive episode of Monday Night Raw later on in the year to replace Cyber Sunday. Cyber Sunday had a four year run in WWE and initially gathered good feedback regarding the concept but WWE has elected to remove the two shows in October slot and instead focus on more build towards Survivor Series in November. Night of Champions lasted only one year and has been nixed in order to make room for the King of the Ring return. The last King of the Ring event took place in 2002 and that was also the last time the tournament took place as well.

Below is the schedule along with locations that have been confirmed so far at this time:

WWE No Way Out | Sunday February 17, 2008 | Las Vegas, Nevada
WWE WrestleMania XXIV | Sunday March 30, 2008 | Washington D.C.
WWE Backlash | Sunday April 27, 2008 | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
WWE Judgment Day | Sunday May 18, 2008 | Omaha, Nebraska
WWE Vengeance | Sunday June 1, 2008 | San Diego, California
WWE King of the Ring | Sunday June 29, 2008 | Dallas, Texas
WWE Retribution | Sunday July 20, 2008 | Uniondale, New York
WWE SummerSlam | Sunday August 17, 2008 | Indianapolis, Indiana
WWE Unforgiven | Sunday September 21, 2008 | Cleveland, Ohio
WWE No Mercy | Sunday October 5, 2008 | Portland, Oregon
WWE Survivor Series | Sunday November 23, 2008 | Boston, Massachusetts
WWE Armageddon | Sunday December 14, 2008 | Buffalo, New York

Also regarding the “themed” Pay-Per-View events - it is believed that WWE will have a reinitialized focus on having more “themed” episodes of their weekly episodic shows - Raw and SmackDown. In the past we’ve seen themes such as Raw Roulette and Night of Champions for both Raw and SmackDown so the initial removal of these events as PPV events does not mean they are completely gone. WWE has confirmed at this time that they are planning a special edition of Friday Night SmackDown on July 4th and dubbing it as The Great American Bash: Friday Night SmackDown LIVE! WWE is anticipating having more live episodes of SmackDown this year than they have in the past - a far cry from the past few years where there has only been one or two a year.

Miscellaneous Notes

Morale is very high backstage after the Royal Rumble event and many people are looking at the success of the show as being a huge turning point heading into WrestleMania season. John Cena’s Royal Rumble victory has received rave reviews and despite his booking over the last two years - many feel that Cena can regain some much needed momentum in an effort to rebuild his character.

The rebuild of the tag divisions on both Raw and SmackDown is something that has been internally discussed amongst the creative teams recently as both divisions are immensely struggling and this is expected to be addressed immediately. While it is not anticipated that these divisions will be fully built up by WrestleMania - it is expected that after WrestleMania there will be a huge emphasis on getting these tag divisions back to respectable levels that have not been seen in WWE in quite some time.

The same can be said for the Cruiserweight division which has seen an influx of new (and some old) talent debuting or returning. Just in the past few months WWE has brought back Tajiri and Billy Kidman and also added in Evan Bourne with a few other cruiserweights set to debut in the upcoming months. Bourne has received high praise from officials backstage one month into his WWE career and is expected to be a key cog of the division for the foreseeable future.

The Women’s division has been somewhat stagnant over the last year with mostly the same women feuding over the Women’s Championship - some form of combination of Beth Phoenix, Victoria, and Mickie James at most of the Pay-Per-Views. This is expected to change soon as well with the women being pushed more and some new talent entering as well.

The WWE Draft is set to return later on in the year and is expected to be in either April or possibly later on in the summer. No official date has been locked down yet but one thing has been confirmed that WWE is changing up the format of the Draft again this year. No confirmation on what exactly that means but there will not be any interpromotional matches with the winning brand’s superstar earning a pick like we saw last year.

WWE originally had plans for a return of Saturday Night’s Main Event in March but those plans have been nixed at this time.​

 

[KOP]

Monday Night Raw | Episode #759
Monday January 28, 2008
Wachovia Center | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

We open tonight with still photos of the action from the Royal Rumble. It runs through the show in order of its events with Priceless having to resort to dirty tactics with Ted DiBiase low blowing Carlito before hitting Dream Street for the victory to retain the World Tag Team Championships. Then we see a few shots of the Mickie James vs. Victoria match with the two women fighting all around the arena before Mickie puts Victoria through a table with a Mick-DT for the victory. Next we get shots of Batista vs. Undertaker’s physical match with ‘Taker putting Batista through the Spanish commentary table and having the Modified Gogoplata locked in before a masked man attacks ‘Taker with a leadpipe. Shots of the mask being removed to be Chris Jericho are shown. And finally, we get several images of the Royal Rumble Match itself including Orton’s punt on Christian, the return of Mick Foley with him eliminating Mr. Kennedy, The Brian Kendrick’s shenanigans, and finally John Cena eliminating Randy Orton to win the 2008 Royal Rumble Match. A shot of Cena standing in the ring with the WrestleMania XXIV logo looming high in the arena is the final image we see before we cut into the opening video.

**TO BE LOVED**

We’re welcomed to Monday Night Raw tonight by Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler as both men discuss that the Road to WrestleMania has officially kicked off! Both men discuss how monumental of a night the Royal Rumble was last night and that the fallout of several of the happenings of the show will be revealed very soon! We’re informed that Batista will make an appearance later tonight but that no one has heard from The Undertaker since last night and we are unaware if he will be on Raw tonight. Todd Grisham is set to have a live interview with Chris Jericho to see if any sense can be made of the interference in the WWE Championship match where Jericho attacked ‘Taker with a lead pope and finally a main event has been set for tonight as well as Randy Orton will go one on one with Kane! But first - we’re going to hear from the winner of the Royal Rumble Match…

**MY TIME IS NOW**

He’s here! A rejuvenated John Cena comes out ready to take on any and everyone tonight after surviving from the number two spot at the Royal Rumble! Cena comes out as excited as can be as he dashes down the ring before sliding in and throwing his hat into the crowd as he always does. He gets a mic but takes a second to hone in and just enjoy the cheers that he’s getting! Cena takes a deep breath and then immediately says “Philly…thank you!” Perhaps some cheap pop techniques but the fans don’t mind as they start a big “You Deserve It” chant. Cena thanks the fans saying that it’s been a whirlwind of a two year period since he last held the WWE Championship and that he wants to thank them for continuing to support him during trying times. “I began to doubt myself for a while on whether or not I would ever get another opportunity for the WWE Championship much less main event WrestleMania and here we are!”

Cena smiles as the fans continue to cheer him on as he moves on to his next point. He says that he has some time to decide whether or not he’s going to stay here on Raw or move back to his first home - SmackDown! Some fans start a “Please don’t go!” chant which Cena acknowledges but says that he’s not announcing tonight whether or not he’s staying on Raw or moving to SmackDown because he’s got some homework to do. The fact Cena is waiting does upset a few fans who clearly want to hear what title he will challenge for but Cena is not showing his hand tonight. He says he’s planning on taking a trip over to SmackDown very soon to see what the superstars of SmackDown have been up to and perhaps make his decision easier. Cena says that the Road to Redemption officially kicks off here tonight and he’s issuing an Open Challenge to ANYONE in the back to face him RIGHT NOW! This gets several cheers from the fans as we wait for a few seconds before…

**I WALK ALONE**

No way! The WWE Champion surely is not answering the Open Challenge right now? A battered and bruised Batista makes his way out clean cut and fully dressed to represent as he makes his way down the aisle. He’s having some issues walking though clearly still selling the brutal battle he had with The Undertaker last night. With the championship belt thrown over his shoulder - Batista enters the ring and poses to the crowd drawing the jeers of the sold out arena in Philly. After doing this he receives a mic and looks Cena up and down.

“Don’t get too excited John! I’m not out here to accept your Open Challenge because I’m not cleared to compete tonight! But what I did want to come out here and do is be the first one to congratulate you…” Cena seems skeptical of Batista and why shouldn’t he be? The two have had words for one another the past few weeks but other than that they are not familiar with one another at all having never faced off one on one in WWE. Cena senses a heavy tone of sarcasm but thanks Batista anyways. The champion then turns his attention to Cena’s comments regarding his impending decision on who he will face in the main event at WrestleMania. “Let me make the decision easy for you John…if you want to have any chance at becoming a champion at WrestleMania…facing me for the WWE Championship would be a death wish.”

Cena laughs at Batista’s comments saying that he’s “worked hard the last few years to get back to the top of the mountain” and that he’s going to carefully weigh his options of who he is facing at WrestleMania. Cena reminds Batista that both men came up together in OVW and broke into WWE in 2002 yet they’ve never faced off one on one and “Who could forget the Royal Rumble just three years ago?”

Batista shrugs his shoulders, playing off the reminder that Batista and Cena both landed on the outside of the ring simultaneously before Mr. McMahon made the controversial decision to restart the match in which Batista would go on to win. Cena says he hasn’t forgotten that fateful night in Fresno and despite this all both men went on to win the WWE and World Heavyweight Championships at WrestleMania respectively. So there is definitely a link between these two and Cena asks the fans if they’d like to see this match? A resounding ovation from the fans seems to let Cena possibly have an indication if they want to see this match at WrestleMania but before Cena gets to speak again he’s interrupted by…

**DON’T WASTE MY TIME**

Elijah Burke is dressed in his ring gear and his manager Theodore Long comes out with Cena looking at them confused. “Playa…did you forget you issued an Open Challenge?” Long has his client walking ahead of him ready to go as we see Burke roll into the ring and come face to face with Cena. Long walks up the steps and after acknowledging Batista he turns his attention right back to Cena. “John, playa, let me introduce you to my client…he is “The Guiding Light” Elijah Burke and he’s here to answer your Open Challenge! Elijah was wronged last week by having his match at the Royal Rumble against Shelton Benjamin pushed up a week earlier thus costing him not only the United States Championship but also a spot in the Royal Rumble Match. And look here playa - let me just say that if my client was in the Royal Rumble - you can rest assured he’d be the one standing here as the winner of the Royal Rumble and not you!” Cena tells Long that it’s put up or shut up time and he tells Burke let’s do this! Batista exits the ring and heads up the ramp to join the commentary team as we see Cena and Burke both prepare as a referee comes down to the ring. We have our first match - NEXT!

Match #1 | Open Challenge Match
John Cena vs. “The Guiding Light” Elijah Burke w/ Theodore Long

We come back from the break and the match is already underway with Burke having the surprising advantage early on. Replays from the commercial break show that Burke had an assist with a distraction from Teddy Long on the referee allowing him to rake the eyes of Cena. Meanwhile, JR and King discuss the WWE Championship match the night before at Royal Rumble with Batista and discuss whether or not Batista knew Jericho would be interfering. Batista said he knows NOTHING about Jericho interfering and that he has no further comment regarding The Undertaker. “The Undertaker is “dead to me”. Back to the action Burke hits a series of German Suplexes on Cena showcasing his ring prowess.

Burke follows this up with the 4-Up and following the punch he goes for a pin fall attempt on Cena but Cena kicks out. Burke drags Cena into the corner looking possibly for the Elijah Express but Cena moves out of the corner! Burke instinctively stops himself from leaping into the corner though but when he turns around he’s wrapped up in the arms of Cena who spins him around with a Spinning Spinebuster! New move in Cena’s move set?!? Who knows! But seriously - Cena follows this up with a Running Bulldog before hitting the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Burke!

Theodore Long now jumps on the ring apron doing his duties in trying to distract Cena and it’s working! Long pleads with Cena not to touch him and it doesn’t look like Cena has any intentions of doing so as he simply tells Long to get off the ropes! Cena turns around and Burke is back on his feet! Burke tries to pull Cena in towards him for the Elijah Experience but Cena elbows Burke in the back of the head before throwing him onto his shoulders and hitting Burke with the F-U! Cena jumps on top of Burke and hooks the leg for the victory.

Match Result: John Cena def. Elijah Burke in an Open Challenge Match

Cena survives the Open Challenge tonight and as he rolls to the outside of the ring we see Batista stand up at the Raw commentary table. With the title sitting on the commentary table - Cena makes his way up the ramp and looks over at Batista and points to the belt that is laid out on the table. Cena motions to the title and says he’ll “let him know his decision in a few weeks”.

Backstage - Eric Bischoff is seen outside in the corridor with six Philadelphia police officers letting them know that ANYONE affiliated with Triple H is not to be allowed into the building tonight. Following his arrest for trespassing at the Royal Rumble last night - he has INDEFINITELY SUSPENDED Triple H. Bischoff tells the officers that he must be made aware immediately if anyone in Triple H’s camp appears tonight and that there must be constant checks to ensure the perimeters have been secured. Bischoff sends the officers on their way and right after they exit in walks PAUL HEYMAN. Heyman walks up to Bischoff in a somber manner with Bischoff asking him what the latest is on Kurt. Heyman informs Bischoff that it’s “not looking good” and that Kurt may be out of action for the foreseeable future due to the heinous sledgehammer attack he endured from Triple H last night.

Bischoff asks Heyman what they are going to do? “The walls are starting to cave in on us Paul…I don’t know what to do.” Heyman assures him that he is confident that Kurt is going to do everything he can to return as soon as possible but it’s uncertain if he will make it back in time for WrestleMania. Bischoff discusses with Heyman that they have to have some type of plan and Heyman discloses to him that “I always have a back up plan”. The screen goes dark as we head off to another commercial break.

Prior to this next match we see The Bluebloods walk up on Santino Marella earlier in the day telling him that he is a disgrace and that he should have never received a spot in the Royal Rumble Match. The duo continue running down Santino until his tag partner Goldust appears and in character snarks at the tag team, sending them on their way. Goldust embraces Santino and tells him “it’s okay little buddy” before Santino thanks him and says he almost had to pull out the Cobra on them. Goldust is VERY confused and for him we all know that’s very odd. Santino then asks Goldust if he wants to see his cobra to which Goldust firmly says “No…keep that cobra to yourself” before the camera cuts away.

Match #2 | Tag Team Match
The Bluebloods (William Regal & Paul Burchill) vs. Santino Marella & Goldust

Nothing much to this match tonight as it’s more a build up towards getting Burchill and Regal some momentum back after their loss last night at the Royal Rumble. Regal works over Goldust before making the tag to bring in his partner Burchill who comes in and absolutely destroys Marella hitting him with a huge shoulder block knocking Santino off the apron and flying to the outside hitting the barricade. Burchill then turns his attention to Goldust hitting him with an Exploder Suplex before dropping him with the C-4 to pick up the victory and regain much needed momentum.

Match Result: The Bluebloods def. Santino Marella & Goldust

It’s a good win for Burchill & Regal to get back on their feet and JR comments on how he’s sure it won’t be long until The Bluebloods find themselves back in the hunt for the tag team gold. Meanwhile, we’re sent backstage where we see John Bradshaw Layfield standing by with Maria.

Maria speaks with JBL regarding last week’s attack on the United States Champion Shelton Benjamin. Maria asks JBL why he made the comment post attack that “it’s nothing personal” when it does seem as if it really was personal. JBL corrects Maria letting her know that it is in fact nothing personal - he and Shelton go way back when The APA and The World’s Greatest Tag Team used to feud with one another but Shelton has something that he wants that has eluded him his entire career and that is the United States Championship. “As your next United States Champion…I promise that I will defend and honor the prestige of the championship by being a fighting champion and a GREAT AMERICAN! You have my word!”

JBL is about to continue speaking before he’s interrupted by none other than Shelton Benjamin. Benjamin comes nose to nose with JBL telling him he hasn’t forgotten the sneak attack last week. JBL laughs at Benjamin saying of course he hasn’t forgotten it - he was Clotheslined from Hell into the next zip code! JBL tells Benjamin that if he wants to be a man and step up to him he can meet him in that ring NEXT WEEK for the United States Championship! Benjamin asks him why not tonight? “A place as violent as Philadelphia is not worthy of seeing the Wrestling GOD in action. That’s why we’re going to do this next week in the GREAT STATE OF TEXAS!” Benjamin looks at his title and thinks about it momentarily before he accepts the challenge.

We return from the break with King and JR both confirming that the United States Championship will indeed be on the line next week as Raw GM Eric Bischoff has signed off on the match! They switch gears next to the shocking ending of the WWE Championship Match with a masked man appearing and attacking Undertaker with a lead pipe costing him the match. The masked man makes his way from ringside before removing his mask and revealing himself to be CHRIS JERICHO! After the clip goes off JR begins ranting about how that no good son of a bitch Jericho is going to have his comeuppance very soon and that he’s barking up the wrong tree by messing with the Undertaker. King tells us that Todd Grisham is backstage sitting down with none other than Chris Jericho in an effort to try and get some answers.

The camera then sends us backstage as Todd Grisham is sitting in a director’s chair and right beside him is Jericho also in a director’s chair. Jericho seems very stoic right now and we see why because when Todd Grisham thanks him for taking this interview - he immediately cuts to the one question everyone wants to know. “Why did you attack The Undertaker at the Royal Rumble?” Grisham pauses awaiting an answer from Jericho but Jericho sits very still staring off into space. Grisham is eerily confused by this as Jericho is not moving and still staring off. “Chris…did…did you hear the question?” We still don’t get a single word from Jericho as the camera sits on him for about ten seconds before he gets up and walks away. The camera focuses on the chair he just left behind as we head back down to ringside.

JR and King are very confused at the events we just witnessed with JR saying that Jericho is a coward and does not want to have to answer for his actions. King says he has to agree with JR on this one but what could his motives be? “It’s ironic that someone who loves themselves as much as Chris Jericho is simply lost for words right now - right King?” JR and King both have a surprising guest because back on commentary after joining the Royal Rumble commentary team is THE BRIAN KENDRICK!

Kendrick thanks King while giving JR the stink eye but begrudgingly shaking his hand. JR asks Kendrick how it felt to be one of the quickest eliminations in Royal Rumble history. “Very funny JR - the past is the past and now the road to KendrickMania starts TONIGHT!” The Brian Kendrick takes a seat after he gives King a business card and he doesn’t even bother giving JR one showing just how petty he truly is.

Match #3 | Singles Match
CM Punk vs. Steven Richards

It’s a rare Monday Night Raw appearance tonight for Steven Richards as he has the unfortunate task of trying to defeat CM Punk tonight. Both King and JR discuss Punk’s impressive performance in the Royal Rumble Match last night with The Brian Kendrick interjecting his own opinions in every opportunity he gets. Punk meanwhile is focused on taking care of business tonight as he makes quick work of Richards. Richards thought he had a chance to pull off the upset victory but after a missed Stevie Kick attempt he’s scooped up and dropped with a Go to Sleep! Punk adds insult to injury by locking in the Anaconda Vice and Richards taps within seconds giving Punk another big win.

Match Result: CM Punk def. Steven Richards

Punk doesn’t get any time to celebrate his victory because The Brian Kendrick hits the ring and surprises Punk with Sliced Bread #2! Kendrick sits down besides Punk before calling for a microphone. “See you next week, Punkster!”. Kendrick bails from the ring as he waves at Punk and makes his way up the ramp swaying from side to side celebrating his cheap shot on Punk. Punk sits up in the ring grabbing at his neck as he stares up the ramp way towards Kendrick as we head backstage to see RHYNO in Eric Bischoff’s office.

Bischoff welcomes Rhyno and says that it’s great to have him back on the Raw roster for the first time in nearly three years! “When I saw you return last night at the Royal Rumble I just knew I had to get you back where you belong right here on Monday nights!” He hands Rhyno a contract and lets him know that while he’s giving him a great opportunity by rejoining WWE - he can give him an even bigger chance to flourish here on Raw by joining the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance. Rhyno ponders for a second as he signs the Raw contract and he hesitates to give the General Manager an answer. “I don’t need an answer tonight so just take your time and think about it. Just know that I can either make you…or I can break you”. Rhyno hands his contract back to Bischoff before thanking him for the opportunity and he tells him he will think about the offer. Bischoff looks on as his newest signee exits his office as we head to another break.

Match #4 | Non-Title Match
Beth Phoenix vs. Michelle McCool

The Women’s Champion is back in action as she is competing in a non title match tonight against Michelle McCool. The new number one contender - Mickie James - is on commentary with heavy interest in this match. Phoenix appears to be on a mission to prove that she will continue her dominant reign as champion as she bullies McCool around the ring during the duration of the match. McCool looked as if she was going to pull off an upset victory with a school boy catching Phoenix off guard but alas that was not the case. Following an enormous clothesline - Phoenix presses Michelle above her head driving her into the mat with a Military Press Slam. Beth follows this up with a picturesque Glam Slam before rolling McCool over and hooking the leg to pick up the victory.

Match Result: Beth Phoenix def. Michelle McCool

Immediately after her victory Phoenix eyes Mickie James at the commentary table up at the top of the ramp. Beth grabs her championship belt and makes her way out as she mocks Mickie and tells her that she will never see this championship again. Mickie tells Beth that she is going to take back what she lost to Beth last summer and finally end up back on top of the women’s division in WWE! Beth holds the belt high in the air waving it for Mickie to see as the two women eye one another with an impending match set to take place sometimes between these two long time rivals.

Maria is backstage as she welcomes her guest at this time - Mr. Kennedy. Kennedy is in a foul mood (when is he usually not though?) and clearly distraught at the actions of Mick Foley last night! Maria asks Mr. Kennedy what his thoughts are on Mick Foley returning and costing him an opportunity to main event WrestleMania. “What an ignorant question Maria. Truly ignorant that you’re going to ask me what my thoughts are? How do you think I’m feeling? Do you think I’m excited that a raging lunatic such as Mick Foley cost me my opportunity to main event WrestleMania? Do you think I’m thrilled that I’m banged up and bruised (shows taped ribs) because that psychopath pushed me off the stage through a table? To answer your stupid question…I’M PISSED OFF! I’m pissed off at the fact that Mick Foley continues to find his way back to the WWE despite having been FIRED last year! What in the hell does Mick Foley have on Vince McMahon to keep getting opportunity after opportunity after opportunity after opportunity? I represent the new blood…the money making main eventers that will headline the WWE for years to come…not some glorified stuntman who is performing way past his expiration date just to get cheap pops from idiots like right here in this dumpster fire of a city known as Philadelphia! You idiots in Philly are responsible for encouraging morons like Mick Foley to think that hitting someone with a barbed wire bat is wrestling!" (boos begin to pour in as the passionate Philly fans in attendance are not enthused).

Maria asks Mr. Kennedy what the next step in the feud between Mick Foley and himself will be to which Kennedy responds “There is only one final chapter remaining…WrestleMania 24 in Washington D.C. If you have the balls to show up next week Mick - you come down to that ring and come face to face with me so I can slap the ever living shit out of you before putting pen to paper. And then on March 30 I will end your so-called “career” at WrestleMania.” Kennedy walks off with the raw emotion showing on his face as he went from white to beet red in the matter of seconds. The camera hones in on Maria, shocked at what she heard as we head to another break.

**********

WrestleMania Rewind | WrestleMania XIV
Sunday March 29, 1998
FleetCenter | Boston, Massachusetts

Special enforcer Mike Tyson shocks the world when he knocks out Shawn Michaels with a punch before draping Stone Cold Steve Austin’s gifted shirt over the body of HBK as the duo celebrate Stone Cold Steve Austin’s WWF Championship victory.

62 Days Until WrestleMania XXIV

**********

Match #5 | Tag Team Match
The Colon’s vs. Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch

Similar to the tag team match earlier in the night - this one is used to get The Colon’s on the card but also try to build up Cade & Murdoch who have not been on Raw much themselves recently. Both teams give it a go with some hard hitting tag team action and it appears towards the end that Cade and Murdoch may have it secured. Cade calls for the Sweet and Sour but an elbow to the back of Cade’s head breaks Primo free before he hits Murdoch with a dropkick and makes the hot tag bringing in Carlito! Carlito immediately goes after Murdoch knocking him out of the ring with a clothesline before fighting off Cade and hitting him with a Spinebuster and follows it up with a Back Cracker to pull out the victory!

Match Result: The Colon’s def. Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch

Primo slides back into the ring embracing Carlito as the brothers celebrate another victory tonight on Raw. Primo gives Carlito a hug as the duo get back onto their feet but they’re ambushed! It’s - SYLVAIN GRENIER AND RENE DUPREE?!?!? We haven’t seen either Grenier or Dupree in years and they’re clad in their old La’ Resistance gear. Grenier and Dupree stomp away at the duo of brothers before lifting both up and hitting simultaneous Spinebusters. Dupree motions to Primo as Grenier lifts him up and they hit La Bonsoir before scooping Carlito up and hitting Au Revoir! The duo of French-Canadians stand up and eye their fallen victims as they receive a chorus of boos from the Philadelphia faithful. Grenier and Dupree make their way out as JR is absolutely disgusted to see these two back in WWE with King stating that it appears that La’ Resistance is indeed back and that means that the tag team division has been put on notice.

Maria is backstage with the man who is set to go one on one with Kane in tonight’s main event - Randy Orton! Maria asks Orton about coming very close to winning the Royal Rumble last night after having eliminated nine men including his rival Edge and Edge’s brother Christian! “John Cena is lucky…very lucky that I didn’t punt his head completely off his body like I did Christian in the Royal Rumble last night. Cena got lucky and pulled off a fluke win but we will cross paths in the very near future. But first... I’ve got some business to handle with Edge!” Orton walks off as we see him heading towards the arena - the main event is NEXT!

WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008 Inductee
“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair

**********

Match #6 | The Main Event
Randy Orton vs. Kane

It’s time for our main event as the runner up in the Royal Rumble Randy Orton has to go one on one with the man who has the most eliminations in Royal Rumble history - Kane. The two superstars give it a good go with Orton working Kane over with a variety of uppercuts and punches to try and stun the Big Red Machine. Kane fights back though, gripping Orton by the throat and pushing him backwards into the corner before hitting Orton with a huge Uppercut. Orton finds himself in trouble as he ends up getting goozled again by Kane - CHOKESLAM?! Kane lifts Orton up into the air for a Chokeslam but Orton pokes the eye of Kane before headbutting him and breaking free. Orton then grabs Kane and hits a DDT before falling onto the mat and eyeing his prey.

Orton pounds the mat looking ready to strike as Kane rises onto his feet but he’s PULLED UNDER THE ROPES TO THE OUTSIDE OF THE RING! IT’S EDGE FROM FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN! Edge grabs his former friend and tag partner Orton and drives him back first into the ring post! The referee has called for the bell awarding Orton the victory by disqualification but rather more importantly the attention turns towards the brawl!

Match Result: Randy Orton def. Kane via DQ

Edge grabs Orton now ramming him repeatedly into the turnbuckle post before throwing him over towards the barricade! Edge goes to make his way towards Orton but Orton pulls him over the barricade dumping him over onto the cold hard concrete before high tailing it. Orton escapes up the ramp clearly wanting nothing to do with Edge tonight. Orton stops at the ramp as we see Edge pull himself up and look up the ramp towards Orton telling him “your ass is mine Orton” with Edge still angry at Orton for the fatal Punt Kick Orton gave his brother at The Royal Rumble.

Eric Bischoff is seen as Paul Heyman walks up and joins him - the Bischoff/Heyman Alliance will be addressing the fans NEXT!

Time is running low but we have Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman standing in the center of the ring with only around eight minutes left in the show tonight. A loud “ECW '' chant breaks out as expected with Heyman in the ring but Heyman doesn’t break character by acknowledging said chant. “Philadelphia…you’ve been great tonight including the fine officers that you employ in your police department. Earlier tonight I let the PPD know that under no circumstances is Triple H or anyone affiliated with him allowed in the building”. Bischoff alludes to the fact that there have been no issues and he’s glad to report that now the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance can turn their attention to putting on the GREATEST WrestleMania of all time now that there is no McMahon standing in their way!

Bischoff asks Heyman if there is anything he’d like to say and of course Heyman obliges. “I would say it’s great to be back in Philadelphia but honestly you people just can’t let go of the past. ECW IS DEAD! I revived the brand and you all killed it within months for a second time! So don’t sit here and chant E..C..Dubya when none of you bothered to support the show! But what isn’t dead is the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance and despite some setbacks - we are the most powerful duo in professional wrestling today. I can say professional wrestling right Mr. McMahon?”

Bischoff laughs as Heyman says “quite frankly I don't care what Mr. McMahon thinks because Eric and I are in charge now - not the McMahon’s!”

Bischoff thanks Heyman for acknowledging that they are in fact the duo in power and that’s why Bischoff had Triple H arrested for trespassing last night and why he has been indefinitely suspended. Bischoff asks Heyman if there has been any update on Kurt Angle’s condition after the sledgehammer attack he suffered at the hands of Triple H. Heyman says he does have news but it’s not good news - Kurt Angle is going to be out of action until WrestleMania at the earliest. Heyman assures Bischoff though that Kurt will be ready for WrestleMania. Bischoff says speaking of WrestleMania - “I have a grand vision for what I envision my first WrestleMania in complete charge to look like and I’ll be rolling out some of those plans NEXT WEEK on Raw” This draws some jeers to which Bischoff responds with “You degenerates don’t deserve a big announcement!.”

Bischoff thanks Heyman for joining him tonight and looks ready to have his closing comments but before he can utter another word - THE LIGHTS GO OUT! JR and King are both freaking out as we know the lights going out have haunted Monday Night Raw and SmackDown for over a half year now! What in the world is going on? After about ten seconds the lights come back on in the arena and it’s TRIPLE H! TRIPLE H IS BEHIND BISCHOFF AND HEYMAN! Heyman feels something is amiss and he turns around and gets clotheslined into the mat! Bischoff pleads with Triple H to not hurt him as he gets backed into the corner and is begging for Triple H to stay away!

Triple H has Bischoff surrounded with nowhere to go and no one to help him! Neither Big Show nor Kurt Angle are out here and able to help him out! Bischoff pleads, telling Triple H he will reinstate him immediately if he doesn’t hurt him! “It doesn’t have to be like this Hunter! Please don’t do this!” Triple H looks ready to strike Bischoff as he raises a fist but the LIGHTS GO OUT ONCE AGAIN! When the lights come back on we see Bischoff has slithered away and escaped the arena with Triple H standing in the ring befuddled at what has happened as the show comes to a close.​

 

[KOP]

WWE Friday Night SmackDown Preview
February 1, 2008 | Reading, PA

COACH PROMISES BIG ANNOUNCEMENT

Fresh off the heels of a successful 2008 Royal Rumble - SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman has announced that he has a big announcement to kick off Friday Night SmackDown this week! What could this announcement possibly be? One can only assume it may have something to do with the next upcoming pay-per-view - No Way Out - which is set to emanate from Las Vegas, Nevada in only sixteen days time! Whatever the announcement is - Coach has promised the fans that they are in for a huge kick off to SmackDown this Friday night!

TWO SUPERSTARS OUT OF ACTION FOR FORESEEABLE FUTURE

SmackDown suffered a big blow as two superstars have been deemed ineligible to compete for at least the next few weeks. Shawn Michaels who challenged Umaga at the Royal Rumble for the World Heavyweight Championship was left decimated and attacked post match. HBK was coughing up blood after a series of severe Samoan Spikes to the throat from the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga. Word is that Michaels will be back in time for WrestleMania but unfortanately is set to miss the next few weeks. We hope to receive word on his timeline for return soon and will keep you posted.

One superstar's timeline that is unknown is of "Captain Charisma" Christian who suffered a punt to the head from Randy Orton in the Royal Rumble Match. Christian pushed his brother Edge out of the way sacrificing himself for the deadly punt kick that has put superstars on the shelves for months! Edge avenged his brother at Raw this past Monday night by attacking Orton from behind during his match with Kane but Orton was able to slither away through the crowd and escape harm. What is the next twist in this saga? Christian will be out of action for several weeks but one hopes he is able to return soon in time for WrestleMania!

EDGE VS. DOLPH ZIGGLER SET FOR MAIN EVENT ACTION

Speaking of Edge - the "Rated R Superstar" is set to take on the newcomer who has been a thorn in his side for quite a while now in "The Showoff" Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler has interrupted Edge going on weeks at a time and it finally came to a head this past Sunday at the Royal Rumble. Ziggler showed up in order to pull his entrance number for the Royal Rumble Match and was highly disappointed when Raw's Shelton Benjamin (who Ziggler insisted should pull first) received a better number than Ziggler. Ziggler tried to weasel out of it stating that Benjamin stole his spot to pick but SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman assured Ziggler that this was because of his own doing. After berating the General Manager - Ziggler earned himself a main event match finally in his young career. Unfortunately said match comes against the man he's bothered for weeks - EDGE! Can Ziggler go toe to toe with one of the most decorated superstars in WWE today?

All of this and more on Friday Night SmackDown this Friday!​

 

[KOP]

Friday Night Smackdown | Episode #441
Friday February 1, 2008
Sovereign Center | Reading, Pennsylvania

***Rise Up***

We’re welcomed into the Sovereign Center tonight by Michael Cole & Tazz who talk about the fall out of the Royal Rumble and how we are only sixteen days away from SmackDown’s next pay per view - No Way Out! The camera shows there are several people in the ring - a variety of superstars (notably twenty) - including WWE Tag Team Champions John Morrison & The Miz, Edge, Dolph Ziggler, Bobby Lashley, Intercontinental Champion Gregory Helms, Chris Masters, Mark Henry, Rey Mysterio, Rob Van Dam, Jeff Hardy, Paul London, MVP, Big E, Finlay, Ezekiel Jackson, Drew McIntyre, Test, Kofi Kingston and Chuck Palumbo.

We cut into the ring where SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman is standing in the ring with mic in hand as he wastes no time and gets to the point of what he’s out here for to kick off the show. Coach discusses how tonight’s show is going to be HUGE because in tonight’s main event we have Edge versus Dolph Ziggler (camera pans to show both men) but first he’s assembled every SmackDown superstar who competed in the Royal Rumble last night plus a handful of superstars that have impressed him recently to compete in a twenty man Battle Royal NEXT! The winner of the match will go on to main event No Way Out against the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga! And that one starts….NOW!

Match #1 | #1 Contender’s Battle Royal
Winner faces Umaga at No Way Out for the World Heavyweight Championship
Participants: Big E, Bobby Lashley, Chris Masters, Chuck Palumbo, Dolph Ziggler, Drew McIntyre, Edge, Ezekiel Jackson, Finlay, Gregory Helms, Jeff Hardy, John Morrison, Kofi Kingston, Mark Henry, MVP, Paul London, Rey Mysterio, Rob Van Dam, Test & The Miz

Twenty of SmackDown’s biggest superstars are all in the ring and immediately after the bell rings the match descends into true and utter chaos. We have a wide variety of talents in this match looking to earn what for most of them would be their very first World Heavyweight Championship match. The first elimination ends up being Chuck Palumbo who is thrown out by Big Zeke after the two had paired off initially and Big Zeke used his power to overpower Palumbo and throw him over the top rope. Next to go is Drew McIntyre who gets double teamed by Big E and MVP as both men proceed to toss the youngster out bringing us down to eighteen combatants early on.

Test ends up getting an elimination of his own by tossing out the much smaller Paul London after London got caught up with a bear hug after an attempt to jump off the middle rope but Test used his strength to simply throw London over the top rope and onto the outside. Jeff Hardy meanwhile is working on one of his old rivals in The Miz but of course it doesn’t take long for John Morrison to make his way over to try and help his tag partner but he’s attacked by Kofi Kingston. Kingston tries to toss Morrison over but Morrison gets some help from Test who Big Boots Kingston sends him backwards and over the top rope for another elimination!

Morrison looks at Test wanting to thank him for his help but Test is having none of it and proceeds to clothesline Morrison down essentially telling him they are not friends! Test ends up being tossed out next though after “The World’s Strongest Man” Mark Henry attacks him and throws him over bringing his dominant run in the early stage of the Battle Royal to a close.

Fans were hoping to see Big Zeke and Big E come face to face but we never get that because MVP and Big E sneak up on the big man and dump out MVP’s former bodyguard! But both men get their comeuppance almost immediately because Mark Henry ambushes and clotheslines both men over the ropes sending them flying over and right on top of Big Zeke. Henry is now met by the returning big man Bobby Lashley who tries to hit Henry with a shoulder block but Henry doesn’t budge. Lashley steps back trying to take Henry down once again but he’s hit with a clubbing blow from Henry knocking him right back onto the mat as we head to a commercial break.

When we return from break we see Lashley and Henry continue to battle with one another as the attention turns to Finlay and Chris Masters - the two longtime rivals who we see have eliminated one another simultaneously as the duo continue to fight up the ramp. Both men found themselves over the top rope and after fighting on the outside of the ring both men hit clubbing blows to knock each one off but really that doesn’t seem to be their concern - they just want to beat each other’s asses.

The Intercontinental Champion Gregory Helms tried to lay low during the match but he ended up being spotted by Rob Van Dam! RVD catches Helms with a roundhouse kick, dropping the champion and proceeds to hit the Rolling Thunder on Helms before throwing him over the ropes! Helms slams the mat in anger on the outside as RVD does his thumb taunt over the ropes but Helms doesn’t seem amused as he jumps on the ropes and tries to get back in to go after RVD! RVD throws his head at Helms chest knocking him back off the mat but he’s dumped over the top rope from behind by Dolph Ziggler bringing RVD’s night to a close.

Dolph Ziggler has tried to do everything he could to still avoid Edge but he gets eaten up with a brutal Spear after finally being unable to avoid him and Edge ceremoniously dumps his opponent for later tonight out of the ring. Switching back to the two big men who have been battling for quite some time - we see the returning Lashley hit Henry with a Spear before using his power and strength to dump Henry over the ropes and bring us down to only six men.

Despite not having mentioned him yet - Rey Mysterio has been busy in the match doing everything he can to stay alive and he gets his first elimination after he’s able to dropkick Miz over the ropes. John Morrison comes after Mysterio trying to dump him out but he’s attacked from behind by Jeff Hardy who grabs Morrison and tosses him out bringing us down to only four superstars remaining. Edge is able to bring us down to three after he spears Bobby Lashley and proceeds to toss the former US Champion over the ropes and only three men remain. Edge however receives a very quick surprise after we see Dolph Ziggler emerge from underneath the ring as he apparently never left after being eliminated. Ziggler hops on the apron distracting Edge and despite taking a right hand from Edge - he gets the job done by allowing Jeff Hardy to sneak behind Edge and toss him out!

It’s down to just two men - Rey Mysterio and Jeff Hardy - two of SmackDown’s most talented superstars and certainly both deserving of a World Heavyweight Championship opportunity. Both men go at it for around three minutes before Hardy catches Mysterio with a Twist of Fate after a failed 619 attempt that was blocked by Hardy. Hardy grabs Mysterio and throws him over the ropes but Rey hangs on! Rey tries to pull himself back into the ring with leg scissors to try and pull Hardy over the ropes but Hardy out muscles Rey and throws his legs off of his shoulders and dumps Mysterio out of the ring to earn himself a match against Umaga at No Way Out!

Match Result: Jeff Hardy wins the #1 Contender’s Battle Royal to face Umaga at No Way Out

Jeff Hardy celebrates his somewhat surprising victory as Michael Cole and Tazz now discuss our main event that has been set for No Way Out officially now. Umaga will defend his World Heavyweight Championship against Jeff Hardy! Cole discusses how Hardy has had some ups and downs since being drafted to SmackDown last year but that this is the opportunity of a lifetime that he has just received and could certainly change his road to WrestleMania! Tazz says that we’ve seen Jeff Hardy battle with many big names before but never before has he had such a monumental task ahead of him as he looks to capture his first ever world championship in WWE.

Charlie Haas is spotted backstage for the first time in weeks as he walks to the office of Jonathan Coachman banging on the door demanding that the GM speak to him. Coach opens the door and tries to shut the door on the suspended superstar once he realizes who it is but Haas blocks the door from closing by putting his foot on it propping it open. “Not so fast Coachman…look what I’ve got right here”. Haas dangles a piece of paper in Coach’s face and Coach has no choice but to at the minimum see what the paper says. Haas tells him to read it aloud to which Coach hesitates before reading it to aloud and it’s revealed to say “Dear Mr. Coachman, The Board of Directors have reviewed the recent suspension of Mr. Charlie Haas and have determined that he was unfairly suspended and has suffered financial and personal hardship due to this unforeseen suspension. We have elected as a board to reinstate Mr. Haas effective immediately”.

Coach folds the paper up as Haas snatches it out of his hand and gives Coachman a smirk before telling him that he’s here to get what he wants and “if you have a problem with my demands - I’d hate to have to go to the Board of Directors again”. Coach looks at Haas and asks him what he wants and Haas responds simply with “Rey Mysterio. No Way Out.” Realizing he is backed against the wall - Coach accepts Haas’ proposal and tells him that he will get Rey at No Way Out.

WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008 Inductee
“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair

**********

Match #2 | Tag Team Match
Jimmy Wang Yang & Shannon Moore vs. Kid Kash & Tajiri

It’s a rematch from Sunday Night Heat this past week prior to the Royal Rumble as we get another tag match featuring the cruiserweight division. Prior to the match we get a highlight clip of Tajiri talking to Jimmy Wang Yang about how he needs to “cut the act and be who he really is” before speaking in his native tongue to which we are still unaware what the duo were discussing. Shannon Moore makes a big mistake as he tries to take down Kash & Tajiri with a Moonsault but the two move and instead Moore lands on Yang on the outside just as the action was beginning to break down! Moore looks stunned at what just transpired but he doesn't have too long to think about it because Kash ambushes him as the legal man and throws him under the ropes and into the ring. Kash rolls in and lifts Moore up - DEAD LEVEL! Kash rolls Moore up and it’s elementary at this point as Kash and Tajiri pick up another win against the team of Yang & Moore.

Match Result: Kid Kash & Tajiri def. Jimmy Wang Yang & Shannon Moore

Kash celebrates the victory by rolling to the outside and he gives Tajiri a high five before we see Jimmy Wang Yang sitting up looking disappointed in the result of the match and perhaps even the untimely Moonsault. Yang grabs the back of his head as he slides into the ring and checks on Shannon Moore still wearing a disappointed look on his face but he doesn’t want to leave his partner hanging. Tajiri keeps a very close eye on this as he backs up the ramp with Kid Kash. We can hear Moore telling Yang “he’s sorry” to which Yang replies “it’s okay Shannon” before we head off to commercial break.

Josh Mathews is backstage standing by as he welcomes his guest - the NEW #1 Contender Jeff Hardy! Mathews congratulates Jeff on winning the Battle Royal earlier in the night to which Jeff thanks him. Josh reminds Jeff that this is his first World Heavyweight Championship match in nearly six years. “It’s been a long road with many obstacles and many setbacks due to my bad decisions but man does it feel great to be earning another championship opportunity.” Josh asks Jeff what he is thinking about having to face off against arguably one of his biggest pound for pound competitors in his career - Umaga! “I’ve been in the ring with The Undertaker, Triple H, Edge, you name them and I’ve put up a big fight against them all but Umaga…he is a different beast no doubt….”

And as if on cue we hear the voice of Armando Estrada: “Estude me Mr. Jeff Hardy…my name is Armandooooooo Alejandroooooo Estraaaaaaaaaaaaada! And ‘dis is my client….UUUUUUUUMAGA!” Umaga lets out a primal roar as Hardy acknowledges he knows exactly who they are but before he was interrupted that he was going to say he’s going to give it his all and fight until he cannot stand on his own two feet. “Ju’ are going to be lucky if ‘ju manage to make it to No Way Out much less survive stepping into the ring with the Samoan Bulldozer….UUUUUMAGA! We will see ‘ju next week Mr. Hardy”. Estrada and Umaga walk away as the two have a brief staredown before we head back into the arena to Michael Cole & Tazz who are ready for our third match.

Match #3 | Singles Match
Ezekiel Jackson vs. Deuce

Really quick match to get Ezekiel Jackson featured on the card after having missed out on competing in the Royal Rumble. Big Zeke as he is affectionately known to the WWE fans works over Deuce after a Military Press Slam before applying a Torture Rack and finishing Deuce off for the evening with The Book of Ezekiel! It’s elementary at this point as Jackson hooks the leg to pick up the quick victory.

Match Result: Ezekiel Jackson def. Deuce

Big Zeke gets back onto his feet and plays to the fans for a few minutes before we see Big E - the new bodyguard of MVP make his way out onto the stage arms crossed and staring down the former bodyguard of MVP. Big E says nothing as the blank stare on his face finally catches the eye of Big Zeke who tells Big E to “bring your ass down here if you want to fight.” Big E simply remains silent and standing in place as Ezekiel Jackson stands over the ropes with the two big men continuing their stare down before we head backstage once more before the commercial.

An unknown woman is standing outside Jonathan Coachman’s office. She knocks on the office and begrudgingly Coach opens the door again thinking maybe that it’s Charlie Haas again but alas it’s not. He asks the lady if she needs anything and she reaches out and hands over a paper and tells Coachman that “This is my resume and I just wanted to let you know I am greatly looking forward to the opportunity to intern here on SmackDown”. Coach looks up and down her resume and seeming impressed, says that he is willing to give her a chance as his intern. “Thank you Ms. Terrell…I’ll see you next week!”

A vignette begins to air with several people riding exercise bikes and others doing stretches and working out at a local gym. Through the gym entrance walks in a familiar face - SIMON DEAN! “Hi…please let me reintroduce myself! My name is Simon Dean and I am the owner and founder of the patented Simon System! The Simon System is a proven and award winning exercise and dietary system that can help you lose weight, gain muscle, and accomplish anything you set your mind to! I’m returning to WWE for one reason - to help bring respect and honor back to a dying brand that has for way too long allowed overweight and mediocre talents and has-beens to roam the hallways of these locker rooms. So Simon Says…I’ll see you in a few weeks to cleanse the WWE of its unhealthy plaguing issues.”

Michael Cole and Tazz both discuss the impending return of Simon Dean and what it could mean for the superstars of SmackDown before moving on to our next match - JTG vs. The Miz. We get a rundown of last week’s non title match between John Morrison & The Miz versus Cryme Tyme where Cryme Tyme picked up the win and post match stole The Miz’s fedora! Michael Cole then confirms that the WWE Tag Team Championships will be on the line at No Way Out between these two teams.

Match #4 | Singles Match
JTG w/ Shad Gaspard vs. The Miz w/ John Morrison

JTG comes out wearing The Miz’s fedora and Miz asks back for it but JTG instead throws it to Shad who throws it on his head teasing The Miz! This angers The Miz who immediately pounces on JTG throwing a series of left hands bringing his anger out in these aggressive punches to JTG. Miz works over JTG for the first few opening minutes but a late comeback from JTG commences when he moves out of the corner and Miz misses a Corner Splash. JTG tries rolling up The Miz for a surprise school boy but Morrison grabs JTG’s leg behind the referee’s back! JTG kicks Morrison away pushing him back before he gets knocked over with a thunderous clothesline on the outside from big Shad Gaspard! JTG though makes the unfortunate mistake of continuing to pay attention to the outside shenanigans and he’s dropped with the Skull Crushing Finale from The Miz! Miz hooks the leg of JTG and it’s elementary at this point as he earns back a win for his team after their loss last week.

Match Result: The Miz def. JTG

The Miz escapes up the ramp but not before he grabs his fedora from off the steps! Shad slides into the ring and we see Morrison make his way over to The Miz as the WWE Tag Team Champions both share an embrace and celebrate their victory as they know that in just sixteen days time they will be putting their titles on the line against Cryme Tyme.

**********

WrestleMania Rewind | WrestleMania III
Sunday March 29, 1987
Pontiac Silverdome | Pontiac, Michigan

Widely regarded as one of the greatest WrestleMania’s of all time - the star studded card features two all time classic matches with “The Dragon” Ricky Steamboat defeating “The Macho Man” Randy Savage in an Intercontinental Championship Match before the main event which saw Hulk Hogan bodyslam Andre the Giant in the battle of the Unstoppable Force versus the Immovable Object! Hogan would go on to retain the WWF Championship and further build his legacy after the stunning body slam.

58 Days Until WrestleMania XXIV

**********

Match #5 | Non-Title Singles Match
Evan Bourne vs. Jamie Noble

Coming off the huge momentum from his first month in the WWE - Evan Bourne has another huge challenge tonight as he has to go one on one with the longest Cruiserweight Champion in WWE history - Jamie Noble! Noble had a fourteen month reign from January 2006 through April 2007 and is looking to regain his status as king of the Cruiserweights. Noble and Bourne go back and forth with one another with Bourne giving it his all and it perhaps costing him after he misses a Moonsault attempt! Noble goes on the attack working over the back of Bourne and he almost gets the victory with a Tiger Bomb but he only gets a two and a half count. Noble is stunned that he’s unable to wrap up the victory with the Tiger Bomb and he lets the referee know exactly who he is!

Bourne tries sneaking up behind Noble with a school boy attempt - the same move that he shocked the world and beat Gregory Helms with but Noble kicks out! An angered Noble rises back up and hits Bourne with a hard right to the face before hitting Bourne with a Fireman’s Carry Double Knee Gutbuster and then wraps it up with another Tiger Bomb and he hooks the leg to pick up the very big victory over Evan Bourne tonight!

Match Result: Jamie Noble def. Evan Bourne

And just like that Evan Bourne’s winning streak to start off his WWE career has come to a close. It’s certainly for naught though since Jamie Noble is one of the more dominant Cruiserweight champions since the title’s inception in the WWE. Noble poses at the ramp and motions that he’s coming for Bourne’s title before we’re sent back down to ringside to Michael Cole and Tazz who say it’s time to look at the latest saga in the Randy Orton vs. Edge saga.

A video package highlighting the Royal Rumble Match airs next but the main clip we see is Randy Orton lining up Edge preparing to hit him with the deadly Punt Kick but instead Christian throws himself in front of Edge and instead takes the Punt Kick to his head. Cole and Tazz update us and state that Christian has had numerous tests ran on him and that he has suffered a severe concussion after the brutal kick and will be out of action for the next several weeks. We then get footage from this past Monday on Raw with Edge pulling Randy Orton out of the ring before pummeling him! Orton escapes after dumping Edge over the barricade though and the final thing we hear is “Your ass is mine” as Edge watches Orton escape up the rampway.

We see Edge making his way towards the arena - his match against Dolph Ziggler is NEXT! Dolph Ziggler is shown heading towards the arena and he’s stopped by Josh Mathews. Josh asks Ziggler about his Battle Royal struggles and how he’s about to enter the biggest singles match of his young career to which Ziggler simply responds “It’s show off time baby!” and heads to the arena. Our main event is coming up NEXT!

Match #6 | Singles Match
Edge vs. Dolph Ziggler

It’s finally time for these two to go head to head with one another after Ziggler has continued to be an absolute pest towards “The Rated R Superstar” since he first made his SmackDown debut. Ziggler avoids Edge at the beginning of the match playing mental games with him by sliding in and out of the ring trying to goad Edge into chasing him but the veteran doesn’t fall for the bait. Once Ziggler rolls back into the ring he’s met by the boots of Edge who stomps away at the rookie before pulling him back up. Edge works on Ziggler to start the match off with a series of suplexes before looking for a DDT but Ziggler counters with a hair pull on Edge.

Ziggler uses his peskiness to his advantage as he whittles away at the neck of Edge. After an impressive handstand he drives his knee into the neck of Edge but only gets a two count. Ziggler locks in a headlock on Edge and even falls onto the mat laying level with Edge looking to get a tighter grip hold on Edge. Edge is able to work his way back up eventually breaking free of the chokehold and turns the tide of the match around to his favor after he ducks a leaping Ziggler and stops in his tracks before turning around and planting Ziggler with the Edge O’Matic but only gets a two count.

The undefeated rookie Ziggler looks to be in trouble as his undefeated streak may very well be coming to an end unless he gets himself back into this match very quickly! Ziggler pulls himself back up and we see Edge prepare to charge across the ring with a Spear but Ziggler moves in time! Edge turns around - SUPERKICK! Ziggler falls on top of Edge and gets a two and three fourths count! We were so close to an upset victory! Ziggler looks stunned thinking he finally was able to back up his talk but alas it wasn’t meant to be at least for now.

Ziggler gets back onto his feet pleading with the referee that it was a three count but the referee assures him that it was only two! Ziggler pulls himself towards the corner and mockingly begins to prepare for a Spear! He teases Edge jumping up and down in the corner looking ready for a Spear but when he comes out of the corner he’s HIT WITH A SPEAR BY EDGE! Edge covers Ziggler but the REFEREE IS PULLED OUT OF THE RING BY RANDY ORTON!

With the referee down we see Orton slide into the ring as a brawl ensues with Orton and Edge picking up where they left off from this past Monday on Raw! Edge is throwing wild rights and Orton is countering and throwing his own but after a thumb to the eyes Orton plants Edge with a DDT! Orton stalks his prey as he awaits Edge to get back onto his feet and just as he gets back up he’s hit with an RKO! Orton gets ready to roll out of the ring but he takes a look back at Ziggler and throws the rookie on top of Edge! Orton rolls to the outside and wakes the referee up and throws him into the ring and slaps him to wake up before hightailing it over the barricade and out of the arena. The referee awakens and comes back to his senses and as he sees Ziggler he counts to three awarding Ziggler the shocking victory even if it is in large part thanks to Randy Orton

Match Result: Dolph Ziggler def. Edge

The show comes to a close with Randy Orton seen at the top of the arena smiling down on what he just caused as we see Ziggler have his hand raised! Ziggler looks at the camera saying “I told you so” in regards to how he has been saying for weeks he could beat Edge and even if he had help he remains undefeated in WWE and has one of the biggest upset victories in WWE in quite some time. Ziggler heads up the ramp as we see an incensed Edge sit up and look around the arena for Randy before he finally spots him and closes the show with the words “Your ass is mine Randy”.

*********

WWE No Way Out
Sunday February 17, 2008
Thomas & Mack Center | Las Vegas, Nevada
Official Theme Song: Fake It by Seether

World Heavyweight Championship
Umaga © w/ Armando Estrada vs. Jeff Hardy

WWE Tag Team Championships
John Morrison & The Miz (c’s) vs. Cryme Tyme

Grudge Match
Rey Mysterio vs. Charlie Haas​

 

[KOP]

Monday Night Raw | Episode #760
Monday February 4, 2008
Frank Irwin Center | Austin, Texas

***To Be Loved***

We come to you live tonight from Austin, Texas with major implications for WrestleMania XXIV set to be revealed. Mr. Kennedy issued a challenge to Mick Foley at WrestleMania and will we see the Hardcore Legend appear tonight to accept the challenge? Shelton Benjamin will put his United States Championship on the line against former native Texan John Bradshaw Layfield plus much more!

***Turn Up the Treble***

Mr. Kennedy is wasting no time tonight in wanting an answer from the challenge he issued last week to long time rival Mick Foley. As Kennedy makes his way down to the ring we see clips from last week’s interview with Kennedy’s closing comments - “There is only one final chapter remaining…WrestleMania 24 in Washington D.C. If you have the balls to show up next week Mick - you come down to that ring and come face to face with me so I can slap the ever living shit out of you before putting pen to paper and confirming that I will end your so-called “career” at WrestleMania.” Kennedy receives his microphone in the ring as it descends from the heavens and he immediately addresses the Foley chants by saying he’s not surprised that idiots from Texas don’t have the mental wherewithal to cheer for an actual wrestler such as himself (Mr. Kennedy) and not a hardcore stuntman imbecile such as Mick Foley. “Clearly you all have been bashed in the brains by steel chairs, ladders, and thrown through tables just like your hero Mick Foley to think he has the actual balls to show up tonight and accept my challenge for a match at WrestleMania”.

Kennedy says he doesn’t have time to sit here and wait all night and that’s why he’s out here right now. He wants Mick Foley NOW! He doesn’t want to sit here and wait all night to get what he wants! “I have the responsibility of being the man that finally eradicates the WWE from its Mick Foley problem once and for all. So Mick - go ahead and throw that nasty ass sock in your pants, put on your flannel vest you haven’t washed in years, and get down to this ring and come face to face with the man who will retire you for good at WrestleMania - Mister Kennedyyyyy…..Kenne…

***WRECK***

MICK FOLEY IS HERE! The former Raw Co-General Manager and WWE Legend makes his way out to the ring for the first time since his surprise return at WrestleMania. Foley gets into the ring and the tension is high as the two clearly have hated one another for some time and it’s very evident that this could be setting up for a very bad and ugly situation tonight between these two rivals.

Foley starts off by saying that he was watching Raw last week and he saw what Mr. Kennedy had to say about him and he surprisingly agrees with him on one thing but he severely disagrees with him on another point.. “One of the things you said last week was that I’m a psychopath and well…you ain’t too far off on that one and honestly I take that as a compliment. But another thing that you said that really caught my attention was that I think hitting someone with a barbed wire bat is wrestling to which I have to say NEWSFLASH KEN….IT IS WRESTLING! For over two decades I bled and put my life on the line literally every night to entertain these great fans such as the ones here in AUSTIN (cheap pop) and like the ones in Philadelphia you insulted last week. I WILL NOT LET YOU DISGRACE WHO I DO THIS FOR AND THAT IS THESE FANS! These fans have seen me at my highest points in my life and my lowest points in my life and I have always said that I owed it to each and every fan to go out and leave it all on the line every time I stepped into the ring."

Kennedy interrupts Foley saying he doesn’t have time to sit here and listen to a career retrospective of Foley tonight because he’s just doing what he said last week that Foley has always done - steal the spotlight from deserving superstars such as himself (Kennedy). “You’ve done a great job Mick of politicking your entire career and it’s the ONLY reason you’ve continued to receive opportunity after opportunity. Since day one when I was drafted to Raw you had an agenda - an agenda to hold me down because unlike all of the other superstars in the back I called you out on your BS. You did whatever it took to hold me down and you pissed me off for the final time when you cost me a main event opportunity at WrestleMania when you eliminated me at the Royal Rumble. I will go to my grave saying that you are a disgrace to professional wrestling and that you have no business continuing to take up a spot on WWE television. But before I make it to my grave - I’m going to put your career in its grave and end you at WrestleMania once and for all”.

Foley wipes his hand across his face as he looks out at the fans as the fans begin a “One More Match” chant. Foley surveys the arena as it’s clear that the fans want to see Foley get his hands on Kennedy one more time. Foley looks at Kennedy and tells him that he’s sorry. Kennedy’s face brightens up and he tells Mick that he “knew he was a coward all along and that he knows it’s best to just walk away and tuck his tail instead of being put out to pasture by Mr. Kennedy at WrestleMania”.

Foley looks at Kennedy again and says that he wasn’t done talking. “You didn’t let me finish what I had to say Ken. What I was trying to say is that I’m sorry….sorry that I’m going to finally be the person who shuts you up for good at WrestleMania when I’m the LAST….MAN….STANDING”

Kennedy comes nose to nose with Foley as the tension has reached an ultimate boiling point as not only has Foley accepted Kennedy’s challenge but he’s turned the tables on him and in essence challenged Kennedy to a speciality match that is right down Foley’s alley. Kennedy slaps the microphone out of the hand of Mick Foley and tells him that he accepts the stipulation but that Foley must clearly have a death wish because he’s going to drag Kennedy all around the nation’s capital until he puts Foley away for good. “Mick…you did forget one thing I said last week though…”

Kennedy reaches back and slaps the taste out of Mick Foley’s mouth! JR reminds us that Kennedy said he was going to “slap the ever living shit out of Mick Foley” if he showed up this week on Raw and Kennedy did just that! The loud mouth superstar bails from ringside as he dives through the ropes and high tails it up the ramp after getting exactly what he wanted - a date with Mick Foley at WrestleMania. King questions whether Mr. Kennedy really wants what he just got. JR says that he’s known Mick Foley for many years and he knows that Foley is one sadistic son of a bitch and there is no telling what Mick Foley may have in mind for WrestleMania. Foley holds onto his cheek that is rosy red right now as Kennedy exits the arena through the stage as we head to a commercial break.

Match #1 | United States Championship
Shelton Benjamin © vs. John Bradshaw Layfield

Following a post match attack on Raw just two weeks ago from JBL onto Benjamin, we’re reminded that Benjamin accepted JBL’s challenge to put the gold on the line tonight. The champion who has held the title for 182 days has one of the biggest challenges he’s faced in quite a while against the former WWE Champion. Benjamin doesn’t show any concern though in the beginning of the match as he brings the fight early on to JBL and finds himself having an early advantage. Benjamin catches JBL off guard with a picture perfect German Lights Suplex that almost gives him the victory but JBL was able to break free of the bridge at the last second.

After realizing just how close he was to losing the match - JBL slowly realizes that he’s going to have to up the ante tonight if he wants to hold gold again for the first time in nearly two years. And that’s just what he does when he realizes he has to reach into his bag of tricks and reels Benjamin into the corner. JBL was playing defenseless begging Benjamin to stop stomping away at him but it turned in JBL’s favor when he grabbed Benjamin by the tights and pulled him face first into the turnbuckles.

JBL turns the control of this match into his favor now as he turns the tables on Benjamin and proceeds to stomp away at the champion in the corner. JBL then scoops Benjamin up and hits him with a Fall Away Slam but only gets at two count After grabbing Benjamin and pulling him around the ring like a rag doll - he hits him with a Side Scoop Slam and gets another two unsuccessful two count. JBL Irish whips Benjamin into the corner but the champion reverses and instead sends JBL into the corner himself. Benjamin is looking for a Stinger Splash now but right as he leaps JBL moves out of the way! JBL springs off the ropes as Benjamin comes stumbling out of the corner and he’s flipped inside out with the CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL! JBL hooks the leg of the champion and gets the three count and its over! We’ve crowned a NEW United States Champion tonight!

Match Result: John Bradshaw Layfield def. Shelton Benjamin to become the NEW United States Champion

For the first time ever in his career - JBL is the United States Champion. Jim Ross doesn’t seem too enthused with this happening and Jerry Lawler certainly isn’t. King reminds us about JBL bullying JR a few weeks back and how he has no more respect for JBL. JR then talks about how it’s unfortunate that Shelton Benjamin had to lose the United States Championship after such a lengthy reign but he’s certain that Benjamin will find himself back in the fight for championship gold very soon. JBL rolls out of the ring throwing the belt around his shoulder and throwing on his cowboy hat as he does a celebratory two step dance taunting Benjamin with the gold.

Rhyno is seen entering the office of Eric Bischoff who looks very excited to see the returning superstar! Bischoff asks Rhyno if he has made his decision yet on whether to join the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance. Rhyno looks at Bischoff who is grinning from ear to ear eagerly anticipating that Rhyno will tell him what he wants to hear but his face turns beet red when Rhyno tells him that he will NOT be joining the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance. Bischoff tells Rhyno that he had an opportunity of a lifetime to join the most dominant group in WWE history and ensure that he has a job for the foreseeable future when Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman gain control of the WWE but he threw it all away. Rhyno tells Bischoff that he doesn’t need to align himself with anyone - he’s the one man wrecking crew and he doesn’t fight for anyone! Bischoff says that if he thinks he’s so big and bad that he can prove it in a match tonight against a handpicked opponent of Eric Bischoff!

**********

WrestleMania Rewind | WrestleMania XIX
Sunday March 30, 2003
Safeco Field | Seattle, Washington

Widely regarded as one of the greatest WrestleMania’s of all time - the card features Mr. McMahon vs. Hulk Hogan, Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels, and Brock Lesnar defeating Kurt Angle in the main event to become the new WWE Champion. However - this rewind focuses on the final saga of the Austin vs. The Rock trio of WrestleMania matches which saw The Rock defeat Stone Cold Steve Austin in what would be Austin’s final match in the WWE until he made his in ring return in 2006

55 Days Until WrestleMania XXIV

**********

Match #2 | Tag Team Match
La Résistance (Sylvain Grenier & René Duprée) vs. Local Jobbers

A very quick squash match to reintroduce La Résistance who haven’t teamed together in WWE in over two and a half years. The duo were brought back to bring some depth to the tag division and to try and revive what has been a dying division for quite a while now. Duprée and Grenier make frequent tags bringing one another in to showcase their abilities. Sylvain hits a perfect Spinebuster on one of the jobbers before tagging in René Duprée and the duo hit the Au’ Revoir before Grenier knocks the other jobber off the apron allowing Duprée to make the cover and give La Résistance the victory in their return to the WWE.

Match Result: La Résistance def. Local Jobbers

Rene Dupree calls for a microphone and says that he is absolutely disgusted that Sylvain and his return to the ring had to take place in the asshole of America - TEXAS! “It’s a shame that two cultured men such as Sylvain and myself had to wrestle in front of you disgusting swine here tonight. But rest assured - Sylvain and I have returned to Monday Night Raw to bring back some traditional Canadian French decorum and values - something that you Americans know nothing about". Sylvain shouts in french - “René et moi sommes de retour et nous mettons officiellement en garde la division par équipe.” Grenier drops the mic as the duo leave the ring waving the Quebec flag proudly to a chorus of boos from the fans in Austin.

The World Tag Team Champions - Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase - are seen walking down the hallway before they pass by Matt Hardy. The duo backtrack and walk up to Hardy who is talking to a roadie. Rhodes butts into their conversation telling the roadie to get lost. DiBiase acts Matt if he’s recovered yet from that absolute beating he took at the hands of Batista on Raw two weeks ago. Matt goes to answer but Cody cuts him off and says that nobody cares if he’s recovered just like nobody cares about Matt Hardy anymore. “Face it Matt you’re just like our fathers - a washed up embarrassment to your family name. And you know honestly the funniest thing about how pathetic you’ve become is that you’re not even the best Hardy!”

DiBiase laughs at Cody’s comments as Cody goes to high five him but Matt punches Cody! This doesn’t of course work into Matt’s favor though due to the numbers game and he’s soon attacked by a lariat from Ted DiBiase knocking him onto the ground. After DiBiase checks on his partner and helps him back up - the duo both lift Hardy up and throw him through a table backstage that happened to be nearby. Cody grabs at his cheek where he took the punch as the champions stand over the body of Hardy as the screen goes black and we head to commercial.

Back from the commercial break we see medical personnel responding to Matt Hardy backstage as a few agents are standing by checking on his current status. Jim Ross discusses the attack and says he’s not surprised that those two cowards Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase had to resort to a two on one attack on a defenseless Matt Hardy. King surprises JR though and says that he kind of agrees with Cody Rhodes surprisingly. He says that Matt Hardy has been a directionless superstar for quite some time and while his brother is on the up and up and even has a World Heavyweight Championship match at No Way Out - Matt is just kind of directionless and kind of lost his way. JR tells King that if there has ever been a way to awaken a fire in someone then maybe Priceless attacking Matt Hardy will set him off and put him on a path to rediscover himself and find his way once again in the WWE.

Match #3 | Six Woman Tag Team Match
Beth Phoenix, Katie Lea Burchill, & Jillian vs. Mickie James, Michelle McCool, & Melina

It’s time for some six women tag team action as we get the Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix leading her team of Katie Lea Burchill and Jillian squaring off against the number one contender Mickie James and her partners Michelle McCool and her good friend Melina. JR and King inform us that Mickie James has announced she will face Beth Phoenix for the Women’s Championship in two weeks. The overall general story of the match is Beth Phoenix dominating McCool and Melina but refusing to step into the ring with Mickie James.

After Melina is able to break free of Beth and slide through and get a two fall - she jumps over and tags in the number one contender Mickie James who comes charging into the ring but Beth quickly tags out to Katie Lea. Katie Lea comes into the ring and simply can’t contend with the offense of Mickie who catches her off guard with a Mick Kick and follows it up with the Mick DDT to secure the win for her team. Beth had already grabbed her title and left the ringside area as the three count brought the match to a close leaving her partners high and dry and showing her true colors of only being concerned about herself and her championship.

Match Result: Beth Phoenix, Katie Lea Burchill, & Jillian def. Mickie James, Michelle McCool, & Melina

Maria is backstage and says that she’s going to try and get an answer from Chris Jericho this week regarding his shocking attack on The Undertaker at The Royal Rumble. Maria knocks on the locker room door to try and speak with Chris. “Chris, could you please tell us why you attacked The Undertaker at the Royal Rumble just eight nights ago?” Jericho looks at Maria and just like he did last week in his sit down interview with Todd Grisham he’s stoic and doesn’t say a single word. The blank stare on Jericho’s face is so confusing and begins to make Maria uncomfortable. Jericho simply takes a step back and shuts the door in Maria’s face leaving Maria perplexed as to just why Jericho won’t speak up in regards to his shocking attack that cost Undertaker the WWE Championship.

Match #4 | Singles Match
CM Punk vs. The Brian Kendrick

CM Punk is anxiously awaiting in the ring his former tag team partner and long time pest The Brian Kendrick who challenged him to this match this week. However - TBK is not dressed for competition surprisingly and he comes out with a doctor’s note saying that he’s not cleared for competition due to a stubbed pinky toe and that he’s not sure if he can compete next week either due to the excruciating pain he’s been through since stubbing his toe last night. TBK says he hates that it had to come to this tonight but he wants to be at one hundred percent when he finally faces off against CM Punk.

Punk calls for a microphone and tells Kendrick that he wants him next week once and for all. “I’m done playing these games with you Brian.” TBK quickly corrects Punk and says that it is THE Brian Kendrick. Emphasis on THE. TBK reminds Punk that he just told him that he doesn’t know if he will be cleared to even compete next week so it’s all up to his doctors at this point. “It’s all about protecting my brand and image, Punkster. I’m a businessman first and foremost as you are aware (flashes business card at Punk) and with WrestleMania coming up I have to be in tip top shape so I’ll have to take a raincheck this week and maybe next week”. TBK leaves as Punk is left standing in the ring disgruntled and upset that once again Kendrick has dodged him in what seems to be a never ending solution to their long standing feud.

Match Result: Match Never Got Underway

We’re sent backstage to see Paul Heyman and Eric Bischoff talking about the shocking appearance of Triple H last week on Raw. Bischoff says he’s ensured that the officers who let Triple H into the building last week have all been fired for failing to do their jobs. Heyman says his neck is sore after being clotheslined by Triple H last week and he tells Bischoff that he’s concerned about how the two are going to keep Triple H away. Bischoff asks Heyman what he means? Heyman reminds Bischoff that he told Triple H he would reinstate him as long as he didn’t hurt him to which Bischoff says that Triple H may not have hurt him but he did hurt Heyman and that is grounds for keeping Triple H indefinitely suspended. “You can’t allow superstars to go around attacking figures of authority, Paul! That’s how it turns into the prisoners running the asylum and I’ll be damned if Eric Bischoff’s WWE gives power to the superstars”. Bischoff asks Paul if he’s certain Kurt Angle is going to be ready for WrestleMania. Heyman assures him that he spoke to Kurt earlier in the day and that Kurt will be ready. He’s experiencing some severe headaches from the sledgehammer attack but he’s going to do whatever it takes to get back for WrestleMania. Bischoff says that’s great because he has a BIG WrestleMania announcement next week on Raw pertaining to Kurt and the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance! Heyman smiles as Bischoff tells him that he will love what he has planned.

“The Viper” Randy Orton is spotted backstage headed towards the parking lot but he’s stopped by Todd Grisham who wants to speak with him regarding his appearance on SmackDown just three nights ago. Todd asks why Randy helped Dolph Ziggler get the victory over Edge and Randy quickly puts to bed Todd’s question by saying that Dolph Ziggler has nothing to do with this. "This is all about Edge! This is about Edge trying to ambush me last week and this is about him bringing what was once a successful chapter in his career during their Rated RKO days to a close." Grisham reminds Randy Orton about what he did at the Royal Rumble when he was preparing to punt kick Edge in the head but instead Edge’s brother Christian pushed him out of the way and instead took the kick. A smirk comes across the face of Orton who says that Christian is an idiot for sticking up for his brother. What has his brother done for him? “Edge and I used to be brothers but I always heard that voice in the back of my head telling me that he’s simply using you for his own gain. And one day I finally listened to that voice and I did what had to be done. I took Edge out but this next time…this next time I take him out will be the FINAL time”. With that being said Orton walks away as we head into the arena where Rhyno is already in the ring.

Match #5 | Singles Match
Rhyno vs. The Big Show

The Big Show is back for the first time in nearly two months and it appears that he still finds himself aligned with the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance. Rhyno is having to compete tonight against Big Show due to Rhyno refusing to join the alliance and thus being pitted against the big giant in his return. The Man Beast doesn’t back down though and quite frankly didn’t seem too shocked when he found out that Big Show was his opponent. Rhyno works on taking down the legs of the Big Show and after a chop block he proceeds to step a little out of his usual comfort zone with a dropkick that stirs Big Show but he doesn’t go down completely.

Rhyno bounces off the ropes charging back at Big Show looking for a clothesline to knock him off his feet but Big Show has other plans and instead goozles Rhyno with a firm grasp before pulling himself back up. Big Show goes to lift Rhyno up for a chokeslam but Rhyno breaks free after repeated kicks to the stomach before jumping down and bouncing off the ropes. Rhyno ducks underneath a clothesline from Big Show but as he comes back looking for the Gore he’s hit with the Knockout Punch! Big Show covers Rhyno and gets a victory sending a message to Rhyno and perhaps everyone else in the locker room to not cross the alliance.

Match Result: The Big Show def. Rhyno

Backstage Teddy Long is walking with his client Elijah Burke who came up short last week when he answered John Cena’s Open Challenge. Long tells Burke as they’re walking that Cena may have won the battle last week but Burke is going to win the war playa! “There ain’t nobody in this locker room that can handle The Elijah Experience ya hear me playa?” Burke tells Teddy Long that he is a purebred athlete - a once in a lifetime generational talent and that he should be treated as such. Burke says he will issue an Open Challenge of his own next week and he feels sorry for whatever soul answers his Open Challenge because he’s going to give them 4-UP and make them go night night!

***I WALK ALONE***

As the night begins to wind down we have the WWE Champion Batista make his way out into the arena to discuss last week’s face to face meeting with John Cena. Batista says he’s sorry to tell the fans in Austin tonight that he’s not here to compete because once again he’s yet to be cleared. But what he is here tonight for is to talk about The Road to Redemption for John Cena. Batista reminds the fans that John Cena said he’s going to take a trip to SmackDown very soon and he’s heard through the grapevine that Cena will be on SmackDown THIS FRIDAY!

Batista talks about how Cena got his start on SmackDown and that’s where he won his first WWE Championship and what has turned out be the ONLY WWE Championship reign he has had in six years in the WWE. “Meanwhile I’m a three time World Heavyweight and WWE Champion.” Batista hears some jeers after his comments but he says that what he just said is simply the truth and if Cena’s fans don’t want to hear the truth then so be it. “But what we’re not going to do is come out here and twist and distort history and try to make it seem like John Cena has been the face of the WWE for the last few years because that’s simply not true. John Cena has fallen off and he’s fallen off hard”.

Batista tells the fans that the Road to Redemption tour that Cena is currently embarking on sounds good and all but there’s one big problem - “I’m the WWE Champion and if Cena is dumb enough to pick me at WrestleMania then I’m going to simply be one big roadblock in his path to winning another championship.” Batista says he told Cena last week that if he knows what is best he will tuck his tail and go running back to SmackDown and fight whomever wins between Jeff Hardy and Umaga at No Way Out.

Batista looks ready to continue speaking but he’s interrupted by Cena who comes out through the crowd and stops at the top of the crowd hanging out with his fellow Chain Gang members! Cena tells Batista to look up here and finally after a spotlight shines on him we see the champion lock eyes with Cena. Cena tells Batista that the rumors are true - that he is indeed going to Friday Night SmackDown this week for the first time in over two years and that he’s looking forward to being back where his career started. However - he hasn’t ruled out facing Batista just yet. Cena acknowledges Batista’s comments about him being a three time champion and says that he is indeed right - that Batista has been on an absolute tear winning two more championships than Cena has. But things are going to change at WrestleMania when the Road to Redemption tour barrels into WrestleMania and results in John Cena on top as champion once again regardless of who his WrestleMania opponent is.

Batista tells Cena that he needs to be very smart about what decision he makes because it could literally be the last decision he makes. Cena doesn’t back down though as he rebuttals with “Don’t be so sure about that Big Dave”. Cena tells Batista that he’s never backed down from a fight and that he knows he has an uphill battle regardless of what he decides but he says he will let everyone know what his decision is in two weeks time on Raw. Cena tells Batista he’s got to hit the road and get to Corpus Christi for SmackDown but he tells the champion that he may want to tune in to SmackDown this week. Cena high fives and shakes hands with some fans around him as we see Batista standing in the ring not seeming phased at Cena’s comment as Raw comes to a close.

*********

The following matches were taped prior to Monday Night Raw and Friday Night SmackDown last week:

WWE Velocity | Saturday February 2, 2008

Big E def. Funaki

Matt Striker & Test def. The Mexicools

Kofi Kingston def. Billy Kidman

WWE Sunday Night Heat | Sunday February 3, 2008

Melina def. Katie Lea Burchill

Kenny Dykstra w/ Kelly Kelly def. Hardcore Holly

Matt Hardy def. Chavo Guerrero

*********

WWE WrestleMania XXIV | Sunday March 30, 2008
FedEx Field | Washington D.C.
Official Theme Songs: Good Life by Kanye West & Light It Up by Rev Theory

Last Man Standing Match
Mr. Kennedy vs. Mick Foley​

 

[KOP]

Friday Night Smackdown | Episode #442
Friday February 8, 2008
American Bank Center | Corpus Christi, Texas

***RISE UP***

Following the usual opening vignette package - we are welcomed to Corpus Christi by long time commentary duo of Michael Cole & Tazz who remind us we are only nine days away from the final pay per view before WrestleMania - No Way Out! And with that being said there are many implications for No Way Out set for tonight including a #1 Contender’s Triple Threat Match with the winner facing Gregory Helms at No Way Out, a face to face encounter between the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga and his opponent at No Way Out -Jeff Hardy and finally we have an appearance from Raw’s John Cena and we’re told that’s happening RIGHT NOW!

***MY TIME IS NOW***

Kicking off the show in HUGE fashion is none other than the winner of the 2008 Royal Rumble - JOHN CENA! Cena comes out playing to the fans in Corpus Christi as the raucous crowd is excited for a rare Cena sighting on SmackDown! Cena makes his way down the ramp high fiving fans before rolling into the ring and calling for a mic. He starts off by talking about how great it is to be back on SmackDown! “Almost six years ago - June 27, 2002 - I walked into Chicago, Illinois as an inexperienced rookie just looking to fulfill my dream of becoming a WWE superstar but instead that night…that night I pushed Kurt Angle to the limit! I proved that I had it in me. I proved that what I had was RUTHLESS AGGRESSION! That same ruthless aggression is what has fueled me to make my way back to the top of the mountain which as many of you know I haven’t seen in quite some time. It’s been over TWO years since I’ve held championship gold here in the WWE.”

Cena pauses for a second as he recants how his last few years have been with him toiling around almost like a lost puppy. He said he’s questioned his purpose and at times thought about quitting but John Cena is not a quitter! John Cena always live another day to fight and he will never back down! Which brings him to his next point. “I’ve got a very big decision to make very soon regarding my WrestleMania match and that’s why I’m here tonight’ He says he’s here to scout some of the competition and familiarize himself with two men that he’s not quite as familiar with - Jeff Hardy and the current World Heavyweight Champion Umaga.

Cena hypes up the No Way Out match between the two for the World Heavyweight Championship and says that he’s going to be keeping a very close eye on the match.

***VIRTUAL VOODOO***

Out comes Armando Estrada and the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga. “Estude me…MEESTER CENA! Let me be the first to welcome ‘ju back to Friday Night SmackDown. But also let me be the first to say that your decision for WrestleMania should be very easy. ‘Ju need to stay on Raw so you don’t have ‘ju career cut short by the Samoaaaaaaaan Bulldozer…..UUUUUUUUMAGA!” Cena tells Estrada it’s awful presumptuous of him to assume that Umaga is going to defeat Jeff Hardy at No Way Out to which Estrada chuckles and says that he has no doubt in his mind that Umaga will continue his decimation of SmackDown superstars when he disposes of Jeff Hardy at SmackDown. He warns Cena that he doesn’t have what it takes to step into the ring with a physical specimen such as Umaga.

Cena tells Estrada that regardless if it’s Batista, Umaga, or Jeff Hardy that he ultimately chooses, he knows he’s going to have to fight like hell to come out on top as either WWE or World Heavyweight Champion. But Cena said he’s waited for this moment for over three years now! He’s waited for another opportunity to main event WrestleMania and he wants to feel that same feeling he felt on April 3, 2005 “There’s nothing quite like walking into WrestleMania and winning a world championship and I’ll be damned if I’m going to let this opportunity slip by this year without feeling that same exact feeling!”. Estrada says he’s going to give John Cena a preview of what he can expect if he chooses to fight Umaga at WrestleMania! Estrada points at the ring telling Umaga to make his way to the ring but he’s surprised by JEFF HARDY WHO LEAPS TOWARDS HIM! Hardy came from the crowd before jumping on the barricade and running along it before pouncing at Umaga! Hardy stuns Umaga but Umaga pushes Hardy away from him after Hardy gets a few punches in. Hardy staggers backwards and charges at Umaga but he eats a SAVATE KICK!

Hardy falls backwards after taking the kick from the Samoan Bulldozer to which John Cena slides to the outside of the ring and comes face to face with Umaga! Estrada gets in between the two with Umaga wanting to clearly fight but Estrada tells him to back off. Umaga wants none of it though and he throws a right hand at Cena! Cena retaliates with a right of his own and its on! The World Heavyweight Champion Umaga and the 2008 Royal Rumble winner are going at it! Cena pushes Umaga up against the barricade and throws several right hands catching Umaga by surprise! The fight doesn’t last for long though because security comes charging down the ramp and pulls Cena away from Umaga! Estrada is shouting at Cena that “‘’ju done messed up now Mister Cena”. The security team struggles to pull Cena away but he finally is escorted away before Umaga charges and jumps over security and gets in some rights on Cena! Additional security comes charging out pulling Umaga back and we see Jeff Hardy try and get involved now! Hardy attacks Umaga from behind wanting to retaliate for the earlier Savate Kick! Security finally regains some control as all three men are separated and we head to commercial.

As we’re back from the break we hear Michael Cole and Tazz discuss the happenings to kick off the show! Replays show Jeff Hardy jumping Umaga before the fight between Cena and Umaga broke out with Hardy jumping in himself! We see a clip from backstage during the commercial break with SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman and his new assistant known as Ms. Terrell talking with John Cena. Coach apologizes to Cena telling him that he’s sorry for Umaga’s actions tonight since Cena is a guest of the blue brand tonight. Ms. Terell tells Coach that she has an idea and she whispers into his ear presumably what her idea is. Coach seems intrigued and formally invites Cena to attend No Way Out and personally watch the World Heavyweight Championship match. Cena takes a second to think about it and agrees to Coach’s offer.

Match #1 | Singles Match
Rey Mysterio vs. Matt Striker w/ Test

Matt Striker makes his return to the ring after having been only on managerial duties (due to injuries) and he’s accompanied by his former client and presumably now tag team partner Test! Striker hasn’t competed in nearly a year but he brings a fight to Rey Mysterio who came very close to winning the #1 Contender’s Battle Royal last week. Striker looks ready to wrap up a victory in his return after he reverses into a DDT on Mysterio. Striker looks set for the Golden Rule to try and finish off Mysterio but Mysterio counters with a Hurricanrana and only gets a two count! Mysterio drop toe holds Striker into the middle rope setting him up for the 619! Test jumps on the ring apron trying to get into the ring but Mysterio charges at him and dropkicks Test off the apron and he collides face first with the ring! Mysterio springs off the ropes and connects with the 619 and follows it up with the West Coast Pop to get a victory to kick off SmackDown tonight!

Match Result: Rey Mysterio def. Matt Striker

A big win for Rey Mysterio who has been on a big roll recently but he’s interrupted by Charlie Haas who appears on the titantron. Haas says he hates he couldn’t be at SmackDown tonight but he’s proud of Rey for getting a win. The fans of course sense Haas’ sarcasm as the two are set to take on one another at No Way Out. Haas reminds Mysterio that last week he finally broke down SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman into giving him what he’s wanted for months - a match with Rey Mysterio and that he’s going to get that at No Way Out in nine days. Haas next ends up saying that Rey may think he’s unhinged but he’s really just misunderstood. Haas says for years he’s been an afterthought - he was cast aside and overshadowed by his tag team partners he’s won gold with - Shelton Benjamin, Rico, and Ric Flair. Each partner thought he was just a boring ordinary person and finally he reached his breaking point. He’s stood by on the sidelines unnoticed for way too long now and the Rey Mysterio’s of the world have to pay. The people who have always received undeserved attention are the ones who Charlie Haas hates and that’s why he has to take down Rey Mysterio at No Way Out. Haas says he will see Rey in Vegas. Haas disappears off the camera as Rey hangs over the ropes eagerly anticipating his opportunity to finally get Haas one on one.

We head backstage to see John Morrison & The Miz - the current WWE Tag Team Champions - backstage with The Miz wearing his fedora proudly again after recovering it from Cryme Tyme after his victory over JTG last week! Miz tells Morrison it’s great to have his prized fedora back but also it’s always a great day to be the WWE Tag Team Champions! Morrison tells Miz that he’s got something even better! He said he realized that top A-listers such as themselves need to always be prepared for paparazzi, glitz and glamor, and most of all PR and that they need to look for an assistant to handle their personal bookings and appearances. Miz seems puzzled but Morrison assures him to just be patient and let the Shaman of Sexy work his magic and bring sexy back to Friday Night SmackDown! The duo head off to the ring now as Morrison is in action against Shad Gaspard NEXT!

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WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008 Inductee
“The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes

**********

Josh Mathews is backstage as he welcomes his guest - DOLPH ZIGGLER! Ziggler is beaming from ear to ear as he tells Josh that he wants to quickly remind everyone that last week he pinned Edge and defeated the former World Heavyweight Champion! Josh reminds Ziggler that he had some help from Edge’s former Rated RKO partner Randy Orton who pulled the referee out of the ring before RKO’ing Edge and throwing Ziggler on top of Edge. Ziggler plays dumb saying that he was completely unaware of any of those events taking place and that the only thing he is worried about is what the record books reflect and that is Dolph Ziggler defeating Edge. Ziggler tells Josh that he told everyone he was going to defeat Edge and he did just that despite no one giving him a fair chance. So he’s going to say this now - he’s going to be competing at WrestleMania this year and he’s calling his shot now saying he will steal the show like he always does! Ziggler walks away continuing to relish in his major upset last week over The Rated R Superstar.

Match #2 | Singles Match
John Morrison w/ The Miz vs. Shad Gaspard w/ JTG

This week’s bout sees John Morrison trying to make it 2-0 for his team in singles matches against Cryme Tyme but he has a bigger challenge literally than The Miz had last week with JTG. Morrison has to get past the big man of Cryme Tyme - Shad Gaspard - if he wants to make it 2-0. Morrison struggles to gain early footing as he’s unable to knock Shad off his feet but a timely interference from The Miz where Miz grabbed Shad’s feet momentarily distracting the big muscle. Shad turns around to which Miz plays dumb but it allows Morrison to try and sneak a pinfall attempt on Shad but Shad kicks free at two and a half! Morrison hurries back onto his feet and he tries for a Superkick attempt but Shad ducks it and he scoops Morrison up onto his shoulders before planting him back into the mat with an Electric Chair Drop! The big man gets back up and picks one half of the WWE Tag Team Champions up and plants him with an STO! The Miz tries to slide into the ring but JTG pulls him backwards as the referee counts to three and Shad Gaspard picks up a win avenging JTG’s loss last week

Match Result: Shad Gaspard def. John Morrison

As mentioned it’s a big win for Shad Gaspard as Cryme Tyme earns some much needed momentum as they head into their WWE Tag Team Championship match at No Way Out. JTG goes to slide into the ring with Shad but instead he stops himself and rips the fedora off the head of Miz! JTG has Miz’s fedora once again! Miz tries attacking JTG but he doesn’t get far because Shad rolls to the outside of the ring and gets in front of The Miz! Miz tries to get past Shad but the big bodied superstar blocks The Miz from getting past him. JTG walks along ringside telling fans he will sell the feodra to the highest bidder! A fan sitting ringside raises a $100 bill and JTG immediately takes the bill making the easy money and pocketing it! Shad sees that JTG’s work is done and Miz is absolutely stunned! JTG and Shad leave ringside celebrating their win and their come up as Miz tries to argue with the fan who bought the fedora to give it back to him! The fan won’t budge but Miz rips the fedora out of the hands of the fan and finally puts it back on his head as he angrily rolls into the ring and checks on his partner John Morrison.

**********
WrestleMania Rewind | WrestleMania 2000
Sunday April 1, 2000
Arrowhead Pond | Anaheim, California

In what is the first ever Triangle Ladder Match in WWE history - three of WWE’s most legendary and accomplished tag teams lay it all on the line as The Dudley Boyz put their WWF Tag Team Championships on the line against long time rivals Edge & Christian and The Hardy Boyz. In a spectacle filled with highflying moments including a Jeff Hardy swanton bomb off the ladder, and the brothers duo of Edge and Christian pushing Matt Hardy off the ladder through the table in order to capture their first ever tag team championships in WWF.

51 Days Until WrestleMania XXIV

**********

We head back into the arena where Michael Cole & Tazz run down the card for No Way Out with a new addition to the card - Evan Bourne will defend the Cruiserweight Championship against Jamie Noble. This joins the previously announced matches of John Morrison & The Miz versus Cryme Tyme for the WWE Tag Team Championships, Rey Mysterio versus Charlie Haas and the main event of World Heavyweight Champion Umaga putting his prized gold up against Jeff Hardy.

Match #3 | Singles Match
Bobby Lashley vs. Deuce

Poor Deuce plays jobber again this week after suffering a defeat last week at the hands of “Big Zeke”. This week though it’s Bobby Lashley who gets to use Deuce as fodder as he tosses around the former WWE Tag Team Champion around like a rag doll. Following a lengthy Delayed Vertical Suplex, Lashley follows up his attack with a thunderous Spear knocking Deuce nearly out of his boots. The former US Champion hooks the leg of Deuce picking up a quick win giving him some good momentum in his return to singles action on SmackDown.

Match Result: Bobby Lashley def. Deuce

MVP and Big E are seen exiting the office of SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman looking very pleased at what they were just told. MVP pats Big E on the back and tells him how thankful he is that he has Big E as his new bodyguard and no longer has to deal with Big Zeke. MVP tells Big E that he’s going to get his chance to prove why MVP picked him when Big E takes on Big Zeke one on one at No Way Out. “When you’re the highest paid superstar in the WWE you always get the finest things in life. And that includes having the finest paid security protection. So Big E, don’t let me down at No Way Out big fella.” The two walk off looking eager for No Way Out to get here when the two big men are set to collide for the first time ever one on one.

**********

[URL]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuKVQqv_NNM[/url]

Damien Sandow
Coming Soon

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Match #4 | Singles Match
Jamie Noble vs. Jimmy Wang Yang w/ Shannon Moore

It’s time for some cruiserweight action and we see the number one contender Jamie Noble getting a tune up match as he goes one on one with a opponent whom should not be overlooked - Jimmy Wang Yang! The Cruiserweight Champion Evan Bourne is at ringside watching and we also see a clip of Tajiri watching the match backstage due to his recent interactions with Jimmy Wang Yang. Noble and Yang both get around six minutes due to time constraints but they make the most of it and it looked like Yang was going to earn the victory after a perfect Moonsault but Noble kicked out just in the nick of time. Yang goes to pick Noble up off the mat but Noble rolls through and gets a schoolboy on Yang but Yang kicks out himself at two! As Yang gets back onto his feet though Noble slides under the clothesline attempt from Yang and hits him with a chop block bringing his opponent onto one knee. This perfectly sets up for a Tiger Bomb as the weakened Yang is slammed into the mat and covered for three giving Noble a big win headed into No Way Out

Match Result: Jamie Noble def. Jimmy Wang Yang

Jamie Noble rolls to the outside of the ring and comes face to face with the champion Evan Bourne. “You’ll never be on the same level as me, boy!” Noble points to the title and tells Bourne he’s glad that he’s keeping it warm for him and it will be coming home to the trailer park after No Way Out. Bourne looks at Noble and tells him he doesn’t believe that’s going to be happening because he’s worked too hard to get to the WWE and he won’t go down that easily. The two stare down briefly at one another for a few more seconds before the attention turns to Yang and Moore in the ring. Moore tries to cheer up his partner Yang after the loss similar to how Yang assured him last week that “it was okay” and that Moore didn’t cost his team the match. But Yang doesn’t want to hear any of it as he looks at Moore and shakes his head before walking out. Moore looks shocked at why his tag partner has been acting standoffish recently and left him alone in the ring after the match.

Backstage Edge is seen finally arriving at SmackDown! The Rated R Superstar makes a beeline for the office of the General Manager and he protrudes in looking clearly irate at last week’s events with the main event shenanigans. Edge says he wants Randy Orton and he wants him at No Way Out! Edge tells the GM that he’s not leaving this office until he gets what he wants. Coach tells Edge he understands where he is coming from but that Edge has to understand that he can’t give him Randy Orton at No Way Out since Randy is a Raw superstar and No Way Out is a SmackDown production. “I don’t give a shit what it takes Coach but I want Randy Orton. You do what you have to do to make it happen”.

Edge reminds Coach that Orton punted his brother in the head at the Royal Rumble and the numerous ambush attacks on SmackDown (especially with last week with Ziggler defeating Edge due to Orton’s interference). Coach tells Edge to just trust him and that he will speak with Eric Bischoff and do whatever it takes to get Edge versus Randy Orton to happen soon because he agrees that Edge deserves an opportunity for retribution. But while he can’t give him Randy Orton at No Way Out - he can give him Dolph Ziggler in a rematch from last week! While not necessarily getting what he wanted to hear from the GM - the Rated R Superstar seems a little more calm after hearing Coach say he will work towards setting up a future match between the two former friends. Coach tells Edge to take the rest of the night off and try to relax considering how his last few weeks have been going for him.

Match #5 | Singles Match
Paul London vs. Drew McIntyre

Two superstars who seemed to have been headed in different directions recently do battle in a match that can get both men back on the right track. The big McIntyre has some trouble with London initially as London uses his speed to combat McIntyre’s size. McIntyre spins London around with a Sidewalk Slam after London came charging back towards McIntyre after a reversal. McIntyre tries for a Big Boot to London but London stops in his tracks and spins around before hitting a Dropsault onto McIntyre! McIntyre throws London off of him and as he goes to kick London in the sternum - he’s looking to throw London into the Future Shock DDT but London rolls through with a school boy and gets the victory over the larger frame of McIntyre.

Match Result: Paul London def. Drew McIntyre

London rolls out of the ring with the referee holding his hand as he trips going up the ramp due to the excitement of what many pundits may see as an upset victory. However - the former Crusierweight and WWE Tag Team Champion has been on somewhat of an uprise recently and this is certainly a big win. An irate McIntyre who has suffered a series of losses recently kicks the ropes in anger as he watches London head up the ramp. McIntyre pulls at his hair voicing his displeasure to the referee who’s still outside the ring. The referee tells McIntyre from the outside of the ring that he can’t do anything about the result - London won fair and square! McIntyre sits in the center of the ring pondering what he can do to bring the losing streak to a close.

A vignette begins to air with several people riding exercise bikes and others doing stretches and working out at a local gym. Through the gym entrance walks in a familiar face - SIMON DEAN! “Hi…please let me reintroduce myself! My name is Simon Dean and I am the owner and founder of the patented Simon System! The Simon System is a proven and award winning exercise and dietary system that can help you lose weight, gain muscle, and accomplish anything you set your mind to! I’m returning to WWE for one reason - to help bring respect and honor back to a dying brand that has for way too long allowed overweight and mediocre talents and has-beens to roam the hallways of these locker rooms. So Simon Says…I’ll see you in a few weeks to cleanse the WWE of its unhealthy plaguing issues.”

We’re sent backstage where we have Josh Mathews standing by with Finlay. Josh discusses Finlay’s ongoing issues with Chris Masters and how the two still have yet to settle their differences once and for all in the ring. Finlay tells Josh that tonight is two fold opportunity - he puts the Chris Masters feud to bed and he finally earns a chance to compete for his first singles championship in WWE. Rob Van Dam walks in interrupting the interview and says the only person who is going to be earning an opportunity to win the Intercontinental Championship is ROB….VAN…DAM! After doing his thumb taunt we see “The Masterpiece” Chris Masters walk in and Finlay and he come nose to nose. Masters tells both Finlay and RVD he hates to break up this little interview but he overheard these two has-beens talking about how they’re going to win and he couldn’t help but chuckle at what these two fools were saying. Masters says he lets his actions speak for themselves and they will both see that when he makes Finlay submit to the MasterLock thus making him the new number one contender. Masters and RVD lock eyes for a second but Masters’ attention mostly goes to Finlay after his personal comments directed towards Finlay as the two rivals come face to face as we head to commercial.

Match #6 | #1 Contender’s Triple Threat Match
Rob Van Dam vs. Finlay vs. Chris Masters

With an Intercontinental Championship match at No Way Out on the line against Gregory Helms - three of SmackDown’s top superstars do battle with their sights on gold. Naturally - the two former friends Finlay and Masters do most of the battling as these two clearly cannot stand one another and it carries over into the match. Masters suplexes Finlay onto the side of the ring on the apron, taking the Fighting Irishman out of the equation briefly. However as Masters turns around he’s greeted with a Plancha from RVD over the top rope! We’re reminded anything goes in this match and that there are no timeouts.

RVD goes to grab Masters and throw him back into the ring but Masters counters and throws Van Dam back first into the ring. The Masterpiece grabs Van Dam and rolls him into the ring under the bottom rope. Masters grabs Van Dam lifting him up into the air bringing him crashing down with a Delayed Vertical Suplex in an effort to mainly showcase his strength. Masters goes to grab Van Dam looking possibly for the Masterlock! Masters gets the submission move locked in but he has it in no longer than five seconds before MASTERS IS CLUBBED WITH A SHILLELAGH FROM FINLAY! Finlay slid into the ring pulling his weapon out realizing that he needed to capitalize immediately!

Masters is knocked out cold as Finlay goes to cover him but RVD takes Finlay off of his feet with a leg sweep! Van Dam watches as Finlay jumps back up and he hits him with a Spinning Heel Kick! RVD follows it up with Rolling Thunder and he drags Finlay over and lays him right beside Chris Masters. Van Dam ascends to the top rope and he jumps off landing a Double Five Star Frog Splash landing on both Finlay and Masters! RVD pushes Finlay out of the ring and covers Masters as he hooks the leg and gets the victory earning a date with Gregory Helms in nine days at No Way Out!

Match Result: Rob Van Dam def. Finlay & Chris Masters

RVD celebrates a big victory giving him some much needed direction after a disappointing result at The Royal Rumble and a few months where it seems he’s been on a stagnant path. Michael Cole and Tazz discuss how big of a challenge Gregory Helms now has in defending his Intercontinental Championship against Van Dam. SmackDown comes to a close with Helms in gorilla position watching the events on television not seeming impressed at his No Way Out opponent.

**********

Quick Match Results:

Rey Mysterio def. Matt Striker
Shad Gaspard def. John Morrison
Bobby Lashley def. Deuce
Jamie Noble def. Jimmy Wang Yang
Paul London def. Drew McIntyre
Rob Van Dam def. Finlay & Chris Masters in a #1 Contender's Triple Threat Match to earn an Intercontinental Championship match

WWE No Way Out
Sunday February 17, 2008
Thomas & Mack Center | Las Vegas, Nevada
Official Theme Song: "Fake It" by Seether

World Heavyweight Championship
Umaga © w/ Armando Estrada vs. Jeff Hardy

Intercontinental Championship
Gregory Helms © vs. Rob Van Dam

WWE Tag Team Championships
John Morrison & The Miz (c’s) vs. Cryme Tyme

Cruiserweight Championship
Evan Bourne © vs. Jamie Noble

Edge vs. Dolph Ziggler

Rey Mysterio vs. Charlie Haas

Big E w/ MVP vs. Ezekiel Jackson

PLUS...JOHN CENA WILL BE IN ATTENDANCE!​

 

[KOP]

Monday Night Raw | Episode #761
Monday February 11, 2008
Ford Center | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

***To Be Loved***

A jam packed night of action is set for us on Monday Night Raw as “Good Ole J.R.” Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler welcome us to the Ford Center in Oklahoma City! JR says it’s great to be back home and be able to sleep in his own bed tonight after Raw and he thinks he’s going to sleep well because what a night it is going to be! “The Guiding Light” Elijah Burke has issued an Open Challenge tonight to any superstar on the Raw roster, Chris Jericho is set to host a special edition of The Highlight Reel in which he is said to finally speak out on his attack of the Undertaker at the Royal Rumble. John Cena will be in action tonight PLUS Eric Bischoff has said that he has a MAJOR WrestleMania announcement concerning the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance. King speculates as to what this major announcement could be and he wonders if we are going to see Triple H tonight? JR reminds King that Triple H is indefinitely suspended to which King reminds him that hasn’t stopped him the last few times from appearing on Raw and at the Royal Rumble. JR goes to further sell the show but is interrupted by…

***LONGHORN***

It’s the music of the NEW United States Champion - John Bradshaw Layfield. And in grand fashion he is driven into the arena with his limousine clad with the bull horns (something we haven’t seen in quite a while). The limo driver exits the limousine and opens the door and out steps John Bradshaw Layfield clad in an American flag jacket and USA ring gear. The champion is of course adorned with his newly acquired gold around his waist and is beaming from ear to ear as he steps into the ring. “All is right in the world now that you all have a United States champion that you can be proud of! A fighting champion who will stand up for what he believes in and represent this great country with pride! I am the face of Monday Night Raw…I am the face of the WWE…and most of all I am the face of America!”

JBL continues on talking about some of the greats who have held the United States Championship including Harley Race, Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes, Eddie Guerrero, Booker T, Rey Mysterio and so many more but none have embodied what it truly means to be a Great American and a great United States Champion such as himself. “Shelton Benjamin was a formidable opponent but simply he couldn’t go toe to toe with the best and emerge victorious. There’s a reason that I am one of the best at what I do and why I am considered a WRESTLING GOD and that’s right here (pats championship belt)”.

***AIN’T NO STOPPIN’ ME***

The former United States Champion Shelton Benjamin comes out interrupting the new champion’s celebratory speech which clearly upsets JBL. JBL asks him what he’s doing out here interrupting his time to speak to which Benjamin quickly responds back that he’s out here to get his rematch TONIGHT! The fans in Oklahoma City are excited for the prospects of a United States Championship match but JBL quickly shuts that down and says he won’t be defending his newly won championship in Oklahoma (and proceeds to throw the horns up in the process). “I am glad you are out here though Shelton because earlier today I spoke with Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff. With WrestleMania emanating from our nation’s capital this year I felt that not only did Raw need a fighting United States Champion but also something special for a special edition of WrestleMania. And you know with me being a former General Manager myself I am always looking to bring some excitement to Monday Night Raw and that’s why Mr. Bischoff and I are proud to announce the inaugural Great American Challenge Tournament! Eight superstars from Raw will be competing in a tournament with the winner earning a United States Championship match at WrestleMania in Washington D.C. against AMERICA’S HERO JOHN BRADSHAW LAYFIELD!

JBL points to the tron as the bracket appears and we see the below matches listed:

Kenny Dykstra vs. Kane
CM Punk vs. Elijah Burke
Matt Hardy vs. Rhyno
The Brian Kendrick vs. Carlito

Shelton seems very confused as to how he wasn’t included in the tournament but still assumes he will just use his rematch clause to fight against JBL and he mentions that to JBL. A few mere seconds later we see Raw GM Eric Bischoff come onto the jumbotron and he informs Shelton that this was not a mistake - that Shelton was purposely excluded from the tournament and there’s a reason behind his ruling. “I’m sorry, Shelton. I thought you were aware of your current contract status and knew that your contract here on Raw was ending very soon. So I hate to be the bearer of bad news but as of today you are no longer a member of the Raw roster because you’ve been traded to SmackDown!”

A stunned Shelton Benjamin looks disappointed and clearly upset at Bischoff’s decision to trade him, which causes JBL to begin laughing and pointing at Benjamin. The champion says it doesn’t look like you’re going to get that rematch after all now does it! Benjamin wipes his hands across his face, clearly embarrassed and distraught at finding out the news out here in front of the WWE fans but as JBL continues to taunt him he reaches his breaking point and finally hits JBL with a T-Bone Suplex! JBL scurries to the corner as Shelton tries for a Stinger Splash but the champion grabs the belt and high tails it out of the ring as he makes his way up the ramp back to his limo avoiding more damage from the newest superstar of SmackDown - Shelton Benjamin.

JR and King discuss what a loss it is for Shelton Benjamin to be headed back to SmackDown but that a fresh start for him on his original brand may be a good thing. JR says he remembers the day that Benjamin was drafted to Raw back in 2004 and how far he has come since then. King tells us that we’re being told we will have two of the Great American Challenge Tournament matches tonight and one is coming up NEXT after the break!

Before we head back into the arena we see Shelton Benjamin backstage grabbing his luggage and exiting the Raw locker room. Several superstars such as Santino Marella, Goldust, The Colon’s, Hardcore Holly and many more are wishing him luck on SmackDown. Shelton wheels his luggage off taking a look back at the superstars before heading to his vehicle and exiting the arena preparing to make his venture to SmackDown.

Match #1 | Great American Challenge Tournament
Matt Hardy vs. Rhyno

Our first match of the Great American Challenge tournament pits Matt Hardy against Rhyno. The winner of this match will move on to the second round in two weeks time against the winner of next week’s match between The Brian Kendrick and Carlito. Hardy and Rhyno both start us off in action tonight with a very aggressive and hard hitting match with both superstars trading several clubbing blows. A pivotal moment of the match ensues when both men can’t find a way to take advantage and gain the upper hand and it leads to a stalemate when both men simultaneously clothesline one another down onto the mat.

As both men begin to get back onto their feet - it’s Matt Hardy who is up first and after a series of clubbing rights he’s back after Rhyno with a lariat. Hardy hits his opponent with a Leg Drop off the middle rope but is unsuccessful in obtaining a victory after Rhyno kicks out at two. Hardy gets ready to try and set up for the Twist of Fate but he’s interrupted by the music of Priceless! Hardy looks up the ramp wondering if the two men who attacked him backstage last week are coming out but they’re nowhere to be found. As he hangs over the ropes though it’s shown that Rhyno has pulled himself back up and he’s waiting for Hardy to turn around. Hardy turns around and it’s too late as Rhyno hits him with the GORE! Rhyno hooks the leg and makes up for his loss against The Big Show last week by advancing on in the Great American Challenge tournament.

Match Result: Rhyno def. Matt Hardy

Rhyno rolls out of the ring after having his hand raised and as he gets towards the top of the ramp we see the World Tag Team Champions Priceless hop over the ringside barricades and into the ring. Both men stomp away at the defenseless Matt Hardy! Rhodes picks Hardy up and hits him with the Cross Rhodes as DiBiase looks to go for Dream Street but instead Rhyno charges down the ramp! Rhyno clearly isn’t going to stand for Priceless attacking his opponent post match regardless of the outcome! Rhyno slides into the ring but Rhodes and DiBiase high tail it and escape what would have almost assuredly ended up with a Gore to either or both of the champions. Rhyno checks on Hardy as he watches the tag team champions exit the arena near the stage. JR tells us it is now time for the second inductee into the Class of 2008 WWE Hall to be unveiled.

**********



WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008 Inductee
“The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes

**********

Backstage - Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase are seen catching their breaths after escaping potential harm from Rhyno. Maria walks up to them and asks Cody if he has any comments on his father - “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes induction into the WWE Hall of Fame. Rhodes scoffs at Maria and says he does have a comment and he will just spare us how he really feels by summing it up with one word - “disgusted”. Priceless walk off as the fans boo at Rhodes continuing to show disrespect towards his father and the same for DiBiase for his father the last several months since they captured tag team gold.

Theodore Long is standing in the ring when we return from break and he begins to hype up his client Elijah Burke. “Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce to you the top athlete in the WWE today - he is “The Guiding Light” Elijah Burke! Burke comes out to the ring dressed for combat and when he gets to the ring he asks for the microphone from his manager. Elijah says that many people have misunderstandings about him and don’t completely understand what all Elijah Burke brings to the table. “Athleticism, intelligence, and public speaking are just a few of the traits that I possess and is what has guided me on my path to success. There is no one else quite like “The Guiding Light” in the WWE. Now with that being said…let’s see who’s going to step up and take on my Open Challenge tonight”

***COOL***

Accompanied by his brother Primo to the ring, Carlito answers the Open Challenge and looks to get in what has been rare one on one action since joining forces with his brother as a tag team.

Match #2 | Singles Match
Elijah Burke w/ Theodore Long vs. Carlito w/ Primo

With Great American Challenge matches looming next week for both of these superstars - this sets up to be a great opportunity to possibly scout a future opponent but also to get both Burke and Carlito some action heading into their tournament matches next week. It appears to be an event contest for the majority of the match with both men trading moves and no one necessarily earning an advantage early on. Teddy Long proceeds to inject himself into the match though as he climbs onto the apron creating a distraction. Carlito heads towards the ropes trying to get Teddy to get down off the ropes as does Primo but with the referee’s back turned he’s hit with a swift kick to the nether regions! Burke follows this up with the Elijah Experience to secure the victory and give him huge momentum heading into next week’s Great American Challenge match against CM Punk.

Match Result: Elijah Burke def. Carlito

Maria is standing by with the man who is set to go one on one with the hardcore legend Mick Foley at WrestleMania in a Last Man Standing Match - Mr. Kennedy! Maria asks Mr. Kennedy about his controversial slap to the face of Mick Foley. Mr. Kennedy says he’s always been a man of his word and he said two weeks ago on Raw that when he looked Mick Foley in the face the next time he saw him he was going to slap the “ever living shit” out of Mick Foley and he did just that! “I slapped some damn sense into that brain finally”. Maria then asks Kennedy how he’s feeling after receiving what he has been begging for months now - a match with Mick Foley. Kennedy says he’s feeling great but Mick Foley won’t be feeling great after Kennedy beats him at his own game. “None of the idiot pundits want to give me a fair shot at WrestleMania. The so-called “experts” say that I am out of my element stepping into a Last Man Standing Match with Mick Foley. But what they don’t know is that I have a plan…I always have a plan and I assure you that I will put Mick Foley’s career out to pasture at WrestleMania. Because I am….Misterrrrrrr Kennedyyyyyyyy! Kennedyyyyyy!”

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WrestleMania Rewind | WrestleMania IX
Sunday April 4, 1993
Caesar’s Palace | Paradise, Nevada

One of the most interesting themed WrestleMania’s - WrestleMania IX emanated from Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada. A Roman themed event dubbed as the “World’s Largest Toga Party” took place with the commentary team decked out in togas and the infamous scene of Bobby “The Brain” Heenan decked out in a toga and riding a camel to the ring backwards. Yokozuna successfully retained his WWF Championship in the main event against Bret “The Hitman” Hart but would fall to Hulk Hogan who had come out to check on Bret Hart. Yokozuna’s manager - Mr. Fuji - accepted a challenge from Hulk Hogan for a match and that's where Hogan defeated Yokozuna to become the WWF Champion once more.

48 Days Until WrestleMania XXIV

**********

***BREAK THE WALLS DOWN***

A very serious Chris Jericho makes his way out for the Highlight Reel! It’s been quite some time since we’ve seen Jericho’s talk show and interesting enough it comes at a time when he’s been speechless the last two weeks regarding the attack of The Undertaker. JR questions whether we will get the answer we have been looking for for fifteen days now or not. King says the recent attitude of Chris Jericho has been so bizarre that he doesn’t know whether Jericho is in his right state of mind or not. Jericho enters the ring and picks up a mic as he takes a seat down in one of the prop chairs. He crosses his legs and looks out across the Ford Center taking it in for a few seconds before finally speaking up.

There is no “Welcome to Raw is Jericho” or any upbeat greeting. Jericho says that tonight he doesn’t have a special guest. Rather he will be out here on a special edition of the Highlight Reel by himself. He opens up the talk show with him saying he has struggled recently. Ever since the Elimination Chase Match back in December he has had a hard time coping with where he currently stands in the WWE and perhaps facing a reality that not only has time passed him by but that he’s now an afterthought. “I needed time away from the WWE, I needed time away from Fozzy, and most of all I needed time away from ignoramus fans like the ones right here in Oklahoma City” And just like that it appears that some resemblance of the old Y2J has returned. Jericho says that’s why he walked away on that cold night on Raw back in December."

Jericho says the hot topic backstage and on the internet has been the surprise attack of The Undertaker with a lead pipe back at the Royal Rumble. Everyone is bursting at the seams to find out why Jericho attacked ‘Taker. And within that lies the problem. “No one is asking how Chris Jericho is doing! No one is concerned with me needing time away! No one cares about Chris Jericho anymore! But when you come out and attack everyone’s favorite superstar then all of a sudden everyone wants to pay attention! Well, do I have your attention now?”

Jericho then says that despite what everyone thinks there is no underlying mystery as to why he attacked The Undertaker at the Royal Rumble. Rather, he just did what he had to do. Jericho says a lot has changed since WrestleMania 23 last year where he came out on top as WWE Champion in the main event. He’s struggled mentally since losing his championship to Batista in the summer but he had an epiphany that night in December. He realized that there is one way to have your name forever enshrined amongst the immortals. There is one way to make your mark and ensure that you are NEVER…EVER FORGOTTEN!

“And that one way is to end The Undertaker’s WrestleMania streak!”

The crowd pops at the mention of ‘Taker and the streak to which proves Jericho’s point exactly! Jericho says that he’s fought with being an afterthought for too long. He’s watched for years people ooo and awe at the Undertaker. He stood on the sidelines observing the admiration and respect that The Undertaker has always received from the WWE fans. He’s watched The Undertaker dominate at WrestleMania year after year and defeat a who’s who of WWE superstars but this year it will be different. “Every year someone comes out and talks about how they are the one. They are the one to cause Undertaker to finally lose at WrestleMania. What’s different about this year though is that I’ve done my homework. I’ve spent the last two months secluded studying what makes the Undertaker tick, his mannerisms, his traits, his habits, and most of all what to not do to fall victim to him.”

Jericho says that there’s no one quite frankly like him that has done this much work on preparing for a WrestleMania match with The Undertaker. The sleepless nights, the countless hours of watching Undertaker matches, and the talks he’s had with some of Undertaker’s past opponents has brought the conclusion that there is only one person who can deliver us from evil and that person is CHRIS JERICHO! Jericho issues a challenge for The Undertaker to meet him face to face in the ring next week - “that’s if you have the balls to step into the same ring as me after what I did to you at the Royal Rumble.” Jericho lays the mic down as he exits the arena before we’re sent backstage.

A bandaged Matt Hardy is backstage as he enters the office of Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff. Clearly irate after the attack from Priceless earlier in the night - Hardy lets Bischoff know (or rather demands) that he get his hands on both Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase next week! Bischoff tells him not so fast though because he’s got a few VERY busy weeks on Raw lined up for the next two weeks but what he can do is give Hardy an opportunity to EARN a chance against Priceless at WrestleMania! Bischoff tells him that in three weeks time we are going to have a Tag Team Turmoil #1 Contender’s Match where the winners will face Priceless for the World Tag Team Championships at WrestleMania! Bischoff will grant Hardy a spot in the match but he’s going to have to find someone who is actually willing to team together with him. Hardy looks somewhat pleased but takes Bischoff’s back handed comments and immediately rebuttals by asking what does Bischoff mean by that? “Well ya see Matt…I’m not the biggest fan of your tone you used when coming into my office and demanding that I just give you a match against Priceless next week. But I will concede to your request because you will have a match next week…and that match will be Matt Hardy going one on one with THE BIG SHOW!” Hardy looks at Bischoff as if he is serious as Bischoff smiles and says that Hardy has another great opportunity to main event Raw!

Match #3 | Great American Challenge Tournament
Kenny Dykstra w/ Kelly Kelly vs. Kane

We head to the opposite side of the bracket as we get Raw’s youngest superstar in Kenny Dykstra facing off against a long time WWE veteran - Kane. Dykstra never really gets an opportunity to gain an advantage as his offense seems to not waver Kane. Kane hits Dykstra with a devastating Uppercut as Dykstra leaped off the ropes trying to hit Kane with an axe handle smash! Dykstra is clutching at his throat as Kelly Kelly is seen begging him to get up! Dykstra points to his throat saying he’s in pain and Kelly Kelly asks him to speak up! Dykstra tries to but he can’t and despite his anger he’s trying to get Kelly Kelly to let him focus on the match! Dykstra pulls himself up but he’s met with an unfortunate fate because as he turns around he’s goozeled and lifted into the air - CHOKESLAM! It’s almost elementary at this point as Kane hooks the leg and advances to the second round of the Great American Challenge tournament.

Match Result: Kane def. Kenny Dykstra

Kelly Kelly rolls into the ring to check on her boyfriend but wisely waits until Kane has exited the ring. She gets spooked though because as Kane reaches the top of the ramp he sets his pyro off! Kelly checks on Kenny but Kenny rebuffs the help and gives her a gentle push perhaps just out of anger. Kelly Kelly looks startled and confused and she keeps her distance as Kenny is clearly upset with tonight’s result. The King jokes about how Kelly Kelly won’t be getting any flowers for Valentine’s Day from her boyfriend Kenny.

Maria is backstage with Randy Orton as she has some questions pertaining to Edge’s demand to SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman that he gets Randy Orton at No Way Out. We see clips from this segment with Coach reminding Edge that he cannot give Orton to him at No Way Out since Orton is a Raw superstar but he can work on arranging something for another time. Maria tells Randy Orton that there has been a lot of speculation backstage that Randy Orton may face off against Edge at WrestleMania. Orton tells Maria that only time will tell but that he would certainly be open to ending Edge’s career on the Grandest Stage of them All! But first - he pulls a ticket out and points it at the camera saying that he may be a contractual Raw superstar but he will be a fan on Sunday at No Way Out! Maria asks Orton what exactly he has planned for No Way Out and Orton dismisses her question and says he will only be watching No Way Out as a fan and nothing more.

The WWE Champion - “The Animal” Batista is seen backstage being approached by Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff. Bischoff tells Batista that he appreciates him being a strong representative of Raw and carrying the brand as the WWE Champion. “Look I know you’ve got a lot on your plate - especially with WrestleMania coming up and not even knowing who your opponent is going to be. I completely understand but that being said.. I may need your help!” Batista lowers his sunglasses and looks at the GM not seeming to be too interested in Bischoff’s shenanigans but he entertains Bischoff it appears for at least a few seconds as the camera pans away as Bischoff’s tone softens and the two are in discussion.

Match #4 | Singles Match
Mickie James vs. Katie Lea Burchill

With just one week away from the Women’s Championship match between Beth Phoenix and Mickie James - we get a warm up match for Mickie tonight. The champion is spotted watching the monitor backstage and not seeming too impressed with Mickie. Mickie makes quick work of Katie Lea Burchill who despite having competed a lot recently hasn’t really set the division ablaze. Mickie finishes off Katie Lea with a Chick Kick to secure the victory.

Match Result: Mickie James def. Katie Lea Burchill

“The Glamazon” makes her way out to the stage telling Mickie she’s proud of her. “You’ve been an ambassador and wonderful superstar for many young girls to look up to. You’re a two time Women’s Champion Mickie! You’ve gone toe to toe with the best this business has to offer. Hell - you’ve even beaten me for my championship before. But Mickie…this time it’s different. Next Monday it all comes crashing down. The final chapter of our rivalry comes to an end and let me go ahead and spoil the ending for everyone…MICKIE JAMES LOSES AND BETH PHOENIX REMAINS THE WWE WOMEN’S CHAMPION.” Phoenix drops her microphone but before she can leave we see Mickie with a mic in her hand.

“Beth…Beth…Beth…Beth! Don’t run away just like you did last week abandoning your teammates and clearly showing you only care about yourself! I’m not here to talk - I’m here to fight so why don’t you bring yourself down here and let’s give everyone here in OKC a preview of next week!" Beth looks over her shoulder chuckling at Mickie saying that she’s not going to “fall for that trap” and that she will see her next Monday.

The 2008 Royal Rumble Winner - John Cena - is headed to the ring. He will be in action in tonight’s main event against Chavo Guerrero - NEXT!

**********

Raw Rebound - 2/4/08

John Cena announces that in two weeks time he will confirm who he will be facing at WrestleMania. Batista warns Cena that it would be a grave mistake choosing him because he’s the ultimate roadblock in this Road to Redemption story that John Cena is trying to tell.

**********

Match #5 | The Main Event
John Cena vs. Chavo Guerrero

Joining the commentary team for this match is none other than the WWE Champion Batista who is clearly interested in this match. Both King and JR hype up that John Cena makes his ultimate WrestleMania announcement next week which is presumably why Batista is out to watch this. In what may appear to be a soft opponent for John Cena tonight - Chavo Guerrero proves to be anything but that. Chavo is up to his uncle’s old tactics tonight as he realizes what a win against the number one contender could do for him considering his luck recently in competition. Chavo takes an early advantage by distracting the referee and raking the eyes of Cena.

Chavo then goes on the offense wearing Cena down with a series of dropkicks followed by a
Tilt a Whirl Backbreaker before pounding his chest and looking for the Three Amigos! Chavo lifts Cena up for the first and second suplexes and hits them but as he goes for the tri ultimate of the Three Amigos Cena stands his ground and keeps his body firmly planted. Chavo tries to lift Cena up but Cena powers up and reverses and hits Chavo with a suplex of his own! Cena gets back up and proceeds to taunt Chavo before dropping the Five Knuckle Shuffle on him! Cena stands over Chavo for a second before pulling him up off the mat and hitting the F-U but he’s not done there! No he needs to prove to Batista he means business so he jumps on top of Chavo and locks in the STFU! Chavo taps within seconds giving Cena a big victory tonight in the main event.

Match Result: John Cena def. Chavo Guerrero

Cena exits the ring and after playing to the fans makes his way to the commentary table at the top of the ramp where Batista is seated. The champion rises to his feet as we see the two exchange words but the cameras are not picking the words up. Cena points at and touches the championship belt over Batista’s shoulder as the two come face to face before we finally hear Cena say “See you next week champ” before walking off.

***I’M BACK***

As we return from the break we’re greeted by the music of Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff who has Paul Heyman accompanying him to the ring. The power duo known as the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance stroll down to the ring with smug looks on their face eagerly awaiting the opportunity to run their mouths as usual but to lay out the big plans they have in place for WrestleMania. Bischoff receives his microphone and immediately berates the people of Oklahoma City and says the only person who would be proud to live here would be Jim Ross! This place is a dump! “I’m not quite sure why I waited until Raw came to Oklahoma City to make such a MAJOR announcement but I couldn’t wait any longer! But first - let’s talk about the status of Kurt Angle. As many of you are aware Kurt was senselessly brutalized at the Royal Rumble at the hands of a superstar who had been SUSPENDED and had no business being in New York City. But when you have the privilege of screwing the boss's daughter then I guess you can do whatever you want”. Bischoff shrugs as boos pour down on him across the Ford Center.

“Kurt is healing well and will be ready to go sooner than we thought. Which leads me to my next point…WRESTLEMANIA!” Bischoff points up at the WrestleMania sign. “I made my return to Monday Night Raw last year after having been unceremoniously fired a few years prior. Dumped out on the street and disposed of like I was a piece of garbage. The same thing had happened to Paul Heyman as well. Paul was dismissed on SmackDown and brought back to revive ECW last year and it was immediately canceled and Paul was not heard from again until I stepped up to the plate for him. I realized the damage that the McMahon Family was causing to the long term success of the WWE. I realized that Paul and I were both just a cog in the machine. We were just being used when Vince McMahon needed us and when he was done with us he would chew us up and spit us out. It never failed. It was a rinse and repeat cycle OVER AND OVER AND OVER. So I spoke with Paul briefly last year after ECW came to an unceremonious end and realized that we COULD do something about this.. That we had the power if we banded together to take down the machine. You have two of the single handed most innovative and influential people in professional wrestling history together and we have created MAGIC since banding together.”

Paul steps in now and begins to speak about how Bischoff finally convinced him that they could manage to take down the McMahon family. “When Eric initially approached me about this I was a bit skeptical due to our past history but I realized quickly that he had a plan. A concrete plan that would absolutely dismantle the hierarchy and cause a seismic shift in the foundation of the WWE. A plan that would shift power from the McMahon’s to a duo that actually know what they are doing in Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman. And that’s why we are here because we are here to announce that at WrestleMania…

***NO CHANCE***

NO WAY! Mr. McMahon is back just a little over a month after the limousine crash on Monday Night Raw! And he’s not alone! He’s brought his entire family! Linda, Shane, and Stephanie join Vince on the stage as they look around the Ford Center, obviously thrilled to be back following the torment and attacks they’ve suffered over the last several months. Heyman tries to continue speaking but Vince immediately shuts him down. “Damn does it feel good to be back on Monday Night Raw!” A LOUD ovation envelopes the Ford Center as the McMahon’s are serenaded with Welcome Back chants!

“I couldn’t listen to you two sons of bitches run your mouths anymore. You two have caused absolute chaos and anarchy in the WWE dating back to last summer. You’ve caused attacks on superstars on both Raw and SmackDown and have quite frankly created a master plan that even I am envious of. But…you are looking at the master of having a plan and seeing it out fully. And Oklahoma City…don’t you just love it when a plan comes together?” Another loud ovation breaks out across the faithful OKC fans as McMahon smiles.

“So it’s rather appropriate that my ENTIRE family returns tonight on the same night that you claim you have a great announcement regarding WrestleMania. WrestleMania…the spectacle that I created and that my family and I have made into a must see worldwide phenomenon. I’m here to stop you both right in your tracks and say that you won’t be making an announcement tonight. Instead - I WILL BE THE ONE MAKING THE ANNOUNCEMENT! After speaking with my family in length regarding the turmoil and pure hell you have put ALL of us through we have agreed that there is only one way to settle this once and for all. At WrestleMania…the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance will be represented by Kurt Angle who will go one on one with the newly reinstated as of next week - TRIPLE H!”

DEAFENING POPS are heard around OKC as the return of Triple H is obviously very welcomed but not by Bischoff who is visibly distraught! “But it won’t just be your regular run of the mill match. Oh no….this one's for all of the marbles. This contest will be for the Ultimate Control of the WWE! If Kurt Angle wins at WrestleMania - you two will be able to keep your jobs and in fact will gain even more power because my family and myself will step down! But if Triple H wins - you both will be FIRED!”

Shane seems a little stunned at Vince’s announcement that this is for the Ultimate Control of the WWE and perhaps is something that was not initially discussed amongst the two. Regardless Mr. McMahon carries on - “Oh and I did forget one little detail! I’m not oblivious to any potential outside interference that may occur so this match will take place inside of HELL IN A CELL!”

Could it get any bigger than that? OKC doesn’t think so as the arena continues their deafening cheers before Mr. McMahon brings the show to a close by saying “We’ll see you…. .IN HELL!”

Raw comes to a close with the McMahon family looking down the ramp looking at the men who have caused chaos in their lives since last summer as Bischoff and Heyman look visibly concerned with what awaits the alliance at WrestleMania.

**********

Quick Match Results:

Rhyno def. Matt Hardy in the Great American Challenge 1st Round Match
Elijah Burke def. Carlito
Kane def. Kenny Dykstra in the Great American Challenge 1st Round Match
Mickie James def. Katie Lea Burchill
John Cena def. Chavo Guerrero via submission

**********



WrestleMania XXIV | Sunday March 30, 2008
FedEx Field | Washington D.C.
Official Theme Songs: "Good Life" by Kanye West & "Light It Up" by Rev Theory

Hell in a Cell Match | For Ultimate Control of the WWE
Triple H w/ The McMahon’s vs. Kurt Angle w/ Paul Heyman & Eric Bischoff

United States Championship
John Bradshaw Layfield vs. Winner of the Great American Challenge Tournament

Last Man Standing Match
Mr. Kennedy vs. Mick Foley

World Tag Team Championships
Priceless (Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase) vs. Winners of Tag Team Turmoil​

 

[KOP]

Friday Night Smackdown | Episode #443
Friday February 15, 2008
Toyota Center | Houston, Texas

Just two days away from No Way Out - the blue brand comes to you tonight from Houston, Texas! We’re set to have a big tag team main event tonight as the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga will team together with Dolph Ziggler to take on Jeff Hardy and Edge in a big preview of singles matches at No Way Out!

***I’M COMIN’***

Out first to kick us off on the go home episode of Friday Night SmackDown is the former World Heavyweight Champion Montel Vontavious Porter! MVP completes his lavish entrance through the blowup bounce house and is not dressed to compete but is instead dressed to the nines. His muscle - Big E - follows behind him as the two make their way towards the ring focused with their mind on Sunday as Big E has his first big match in the WWE against MVP’s former bodyguard - Ezekiel Jackson. Big E holds the rope open for MVP as he steps into the ring with the lights glistening off of his sunglasses and the spotlight now hitting him in the ring as the lights have darkened.

MVP starts out by hyping up his big man - Big E - in talking about how he’s going to put “Big Zeke” Ezekiel Jackson to bed at No Way Out! “Big E is unlike anything that you’ve ever seen in the WWE before! He’s obviously strong but he’s exceptionally fast and one of the best athletes in the WWE today! He’s a freak of nature and is going to put Ezekiel Jackson away for good this Sunday!”

“But I’m not out here tonight to just come out and hype up that match…”

“I’m out here tonight because I have one question. It’s the Road to WrestleMania! The biggest spectacle in sports entertainment! The brightest lights shining on the biggest event of the year! The pomp and pageantry of a historical event that has defined careers and created superstars which leads me into my question…where is the self proclaimed “Mr. WrestleMania?”

MVP hears several jeers from the fans in Houston - the home state of “The Heart Break Kid” Shawn Michaels. “For someone to brag about stealing the show each and every year at WrestleMania he’s sure been VERY QUIET since the Royal Rumble. And we all know that’s not like Shawn Michaels at all!” The crowd senses some irony in the words that MVP has chosen to use as we all remember HBK was coughing and spitting up blood unable to talk at the Royal Rumble due to the repeated Samoan Spikes to the throat.

“He loves to talk about himself and how he’s the greatest superstar of his generation but those days are long gone! The “glory days” are past us and now we’re living in the MVP ERA!”

Several boos rain down as MVP hushes them quickly by telling the fans that he’s not missed a show since coming to the WWE unlike their favorite Texas son - Shawn Michaels! “You’ll never hear about me faking a back injury for FOUR YEARS to take time off because I’m Mr. 365! I’m here 365 days a year. NO DAYS OFF! I earn my contract each and every day I wake up. I’m a box office hit, a modern marvel, and quite frankly the greatest free agent signing in the history of professional wrestling! There is not a single thing that Shawn Micahels can do that I can’t do better!”

“So Shawn listen up because I’ve got a little proposition for you. How about you save the date - March 30th in Washington D.C. - the so-called “Mr. WrestleMania” Shawn Michaels versus “The REAL Mr. WrestleMania” Montel Vontavious Porter…ON THE GRANDEST STAGE OF THEM ALL!”

MVP drops the microphone as the spotlight goes black and we cut to the commentary table at ringside. Michael Cole is stunned that MVP would just call out “Mr. WrestleMania” like that but Tazz says it’s a smart move. We’ve seen these two men have their differences just recently a few weeks on SmackDown but what better way to make a WrestleMania memory than by challenging one of the most decorated superstars in WrestleMania history! Cole says he certainly understands that but he knows that MVP is well aware that Shawn Michaels is still recovering from the brutal post match beatdown by the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga.

We get a quick highlight package of Shelton Benjamin’s highlights over the past several years before we’re told that Shelton Benjamin makes his return to SmackDown - NEXT!

Match #1 | Singles Match
Shelton Benjamin vs. Chuck Palumbo

Our opening contest features the newest SmackDown superstar Shelton Benjamin making his first appearance on SmackDown in nearly four years as he faces off against the veteran biker Chuck Palumbo. Palumbo is no slouch of an opponent for Benjamin and he proves that from the get go after he catches Benjamin off guard with a Big Boot to the face as Benjamin leaped off the middle turnbuckle. This abruptly changes the pace of the match for Benjamin as he’s been thrown around the ring now by Palumbo who seems to be the favorite to win now. Palumbo gets a close two count with a pumphandle slam and proceeds to argue with the referee that it was a three count. The referee tells Palumbo that it was indeed a two count and that he did not win the match. Palumbo turns his attention back towards Benjamin as he charges at The Gold Standard but Benjamin side steps Palumbo and as he bounces chest first off the apron he’s spun back around into the arms of Benjamin who hits Paydirt! Benjamin hooks Palumbo’s leg and earns a victory to kick off SmackDown tonight in his return to the blue brand!

Match Result: Shelton Benjamin def. Chuck Palumbo

Shelton Benjamin has his hand raised in victory as the former United States champion is ecstatic for a fresh start on SmackDown after having his contract expire on Monday Night Raw. Benjamin however receives an unpleasant surprise when he’s AMBUSHED BY DREW MCINTYRE! MCINTYRE HITS A HUGE LARIAT ON BENJAMIN! Benjamin falls onto the mat clutching his neck as he’s brought back up and hit with the Future Shock DDT! McIntyre stands over Benjamin as boos begin to reign down on McIntyre. Michael Cole and Tazz are puzzled as to why Drew McIntyre has singled out Shelton Benjamin of all people. Tazz says perhaps McIntyre is just tired of being overlooked and who better to take out than the newbie.

We’re sent backstage where Bobby Lashley enters the office of SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman. Lashley says he’s upset with the fact that he doesn’t have a match at No Way Out! Lashley reminds the GM that when he signed with SmackDown upon his return that he was told he would be used as a true “impact player” on SmackDown and he feels like that hasn’t been the case. Coachman apologizes to Bobby and says that his intern Ms. Terrell has some VERY big plans in the works for WrestleMania and that he’s got Bobby penciled in for an opportunity at this big plan. Lashley says he isn’t here for “possible “opportunities” - he’s here for definitive opportunities! Lashley lets the GM know that he better have plans at WrestleMania for him because he’d hate to have to ruin Coach’s first WrestleMania as a GM. Lashley pats Coach on the back and walks off as we head to a break.

A vignette begins to air with several people riding exercise bikes and others doing stretches and working out at a local gym. Through the gym entrance walks in a familiar face - SIMON DEAN! “Hi…please let me reintroduce myself! My name is Simon Dean and I am the owner and founder of the patented Simon System! The Simon System is a proven and award winning exercise and dietary system that can help you lose weight, gain muscle, and accomplish anything you set your mind to! I’m returning to WWE for one reason - to help bring respect and honor back to a dying brand that has for way too long allowed overweight and mediocre talents and has-beens to roam the hallways of these locker rooms. So Simon Says…I’ll see you NEXT WEEK to cleanse the WWE of its unhealthy plaguing issues.”


Match #2 | Tag Team Match
Jimmy Wang Yang & Shannon Moore vs. Kid Kash & Tajiri

It’ a rematch from the Sunday Night Heat edition before the Royal Rumble as we see four of the cruiserweight division finest squaring off tonight. Cole and Tazz remind us of the troubles that Shannon Moore and Jimmy Wang Yang have had recently with Moore costing Yang matches inadvertently. Yang and Moore are working well together tonight however and it seems to be trending towards a win for their team. Moore is flustered after a missed three count opportunity after a Cross Body Splash off the ropes and wastes a few precious seconds that could have instead been used to tag in Yang or use another offensive move. Moore bends down to grab Kid Kash but Kash wisely pokes Moore in the eye and follows it up with Dead Level to earn the victory!

Match Result: Kid Kash & Tajiri def. Jimmy Wang Yang & Shannon Moore

Following ANOTHER loss for the tag team of Yang & Moore - Yang slides into the ring checking on his partner again to which Shannon once again apologizes. He says he hasn’t been himself recently. Jimmy assures him everything is good as he looks up the ramp at Kash and Tajiri. Kash walks off but Tajiri stays at the top of the ramp and nods as Yang helps Moore up to his feet. Moore’s arm is slumped over the shoulder of Yang but it’s not for much longer because YANG CLOTHESLINES MOORE ONTO THE MAT! Yang stomps away at Moore as we see Tajiri make his way back down the ramp! Tajiri appears to be shouting some type of orders at Yang in Japanese.

Yang holds Moore up as a beaten down Moore is having trouble standing and he’s quickly taken down with a Buzzsaw Kick from Tajiri! Tajiri stands over Moore as he points to the top rope and tells Yang to make his way up to the top rope and performs a perfect Moonsault splashing down onto his partner. He rolls to the outside of the ring grabbing his cowboy hat from ringside before getting back into the ring and STOMPING on the hat before throwing it over the lifeless body of Shannon Moore. Both Tajiri and Yang exit the arena together with Yang looking back at his now former tag team partner in disgust.

Ms. Terrell - the SmackDown Intern and Assistant to GM Jonathan Coachman is walking down the hallway before she’s stopped by Josh Mathews. Josh asks Ms. Terrell what exactly her background is and how she came about joining Friday Night SmackDown as the new intern. Ms. Terell tells Josh that she’s a marketing graduate and coming from one of the biggest destination cities in the world (New Orleans) she understands what first class means. She wants ALL superstars of Friday Night SmackDown to have a first class experience and for that reason she has a BIG announcement next week concerning the role the blue brand’s superstars will play at WrestleMania. Josh asks Ms. Terrell if this is the same announcement that GM Jonathan Coachman was talking about earlier. She says it is and that she has been working on a SmackDown exclusive match that will absolutely steal the show at WrestleMania! Josh thanks Ms. Terrell for her time as she walks off as we head to another break.

Match #3 | Singles Match
Jamie Noble vs. Psicosis

Notably absent from ringside tonight is Psicosis’ tag partner Super Crazy who we are told will be in singles action himself in a little bit. Poor Psicosis doesn’t have much of a chance tonight as an enraged Jamie Noble immediately takes down Psicosis with a Running Knee to the face and then it’s simply on from there. Noble throws Psicosis around the ring like a rag doll working over on him with a series of German Suplexes followed by a Delayed Vertical Suplex. Noble hits Psicosis with a Tiger Bomb and considers pinning him but instead he pulls Psicosis back up and locks in the Dragon Sleeper! Psicosis has no choice but to tap out giving Noble the victory.

Match Result: Jamie Noble def. Psicosis

Jonathan Coachman is watching the ending of the Noble/Psicosis match and has an idea for a match pop up in his head. That’s why he’s called in Cruiserweight Champion Evan Bourne to let him know that we’re going to need a number one contender for WrestleMania for the coveted Cruiserweight Championship and that’s why he’s booking a Ten Minute Time Limit Cruiserweight Open NEXT WEEK for any superstar in the WWE that meets the weight limit requirements. The winner of the match will move on to WrestleMania to face the winner of this Sunday’s match between Evan Bourne and Jamie Noble! Bourne lets Coach know he looks forward to defeating Jamie Noble at No Way Out and moving on to defend his coveted Cruiserweight Championship at his first WrestleMania!

Josh Mathews is standing by with the number one contender for the Intercontinental Championship - ROB VAN DAM! Mathews welcomes RVD for his time and asks him how he’s feeling about competing for the opportunity at his SIXTH Intercontinental Championship? RVD thanks Josh for having him as well and says that he’s excited for another shot at championship gold but he’s really excited for the opportunity to finally be the one to knock Gregory Helms down a few rungs. He describes the smug attitude of Helms and how he’s changed over the years. RVD is interrupted mid sentence though by Helms who asks Van Dam what exactly he means. “I’m not here to pander to people anymore and if you’re talking about my attitude having changed since I stopped dressing up as a damn cartoon character then yes Rob you’re right.”

RVD says that’s not what he’s talking about. He’s talking about the fact that Helms has made a mockery of championships since he first won them. He literally threw the Cruiserweight Championship belt into the Gulf of Mexico and then somehow decided he wanted to compete for it again and won it only to mock all of the competitors who work hard to make the Cruiserweight division one of the most respected divisions in the WWE. “And ever since you won the Intercontinental Championship you’ve done everything in your power to dodge competition. But now dude…there’s nowhere for you to hide this Sunday when you go one on one with ROB…VAN…DAM!”

Helms has heard enough as he smacks the challenger in the face and the two get into it with Helms jumping at Rob Van Dam but Van Dam sweeps Helms off his feet with a well timed Legsweep causing Helms to fall on his back. Van Dam stands over Helms shaking his head telling him he will have to “do better Sunday” in order to defeat him. RVD walks off after picking up the Intercontinental Championship and dropping it on top of Helms as we fade to commercial.

Match #4 | Singles Match
Big E w/ MVP vs. Super Crazy

It’s not a good week for the Mexicools this week as they get paired up against two formidable opponents in singles match. Unfortunately for Super Crazy though his match doesn’t go quite as long as Psicosis’ did because Big E absolutely dismantles him in the ring. Big E lifts Super Crazy up with a Military Press Slam dropping the cruiserweight onto the mat with a thud! Big E hits Super Crazy with a huge shoulder block sending him flying backwards hitting his head on the turnbuckle. Big E then pulls Super Crazy back towards him, locking him in a very tight Bear Lock causing Super Crazy to pass out and award Big E the victory submission.

Match Result: Big E def. Super Crazy

Matt Striker is sitting in the locker room backstage with Test discussing his loss last week to Rey Mysterio. Striker said this is not how he wanted things to go after being cleared to compete in the ring for the first time in a few years and because of that he’s had to take matters into his own hands. “A teacher always has to be prepared for any interruptions in the classroom and how to respond to them so that is why I’m bringing in extra back up. Test - meet Mike Knox!” The unknown Mike Knox walks in - a burly man with a long beard. Test stands up and comes face to face with Knox as there seems to be some tension but Knox offers his hand and the two shake hands. Striker is rubbing his hands together before he wraps his arms around their shoulders and says that “Smackdown has officially been put on notice.”

Josh Mathews catches up backstage with Ezekiel Jackson who has a match this Sunday at No Way Out against Big E. Josh talks about this being Ezekiel’s first pay per view match and how it is ironically against the hired muscle of his former client MVP. Big Zeke let's Josh know that many people have questioned him on how he’s moved on from being let go by MVP and Zeke tells him it’s simple. “I came to the WWE to put food on the table for my family. Not other families. And I’m here to say that I’ve learned from my mistakes and poor judgment on who to trust in this business.” Zeke tells Josh that he thought MVP and him were close but he realized he was simply just a pawn in MVP’s game of controlling people. He tells Josh that Big E will be no different when MVP eventually hires someone bigger and stronger than him and discards Big E like he did himself (Big Zeke). Zeke says he’s looking forward to the match Sunday where two behemoths step into the ring and do battle and that he’s confident he will be the one who emerges victorious in their heavyweight battle.

Match #5 | Six Man Tag Team Match
Cryme Tyme & Rey Mysterio vs. John Morrison, The Miz, & Charlie Haas

Six man tag action is our fifth match of the night as the smorgasbord of competitors are paired together in an effort to get some rivalries on the card tonight on what has been a jam packed show. Charlie Haas oddly enough is doing his best to play the coward role to avoid Rey Mysterio which is not something he has really done to this point in their feud but perhaps after being one upped recently he knows better. Mysterio and The Miz are going at it towards the end of the match when Mysterio trips up The Miz with a drop toe hold sending him face first into the middle rope! Mysterio signals for the 619 but as he heads towards the ropes we see John Morrison make the tag on The Miz. Morrison leaps up as Mysterio comes back and hits Mysterio with a jumping heel kick. Morrison maintained his balance on the apron on the outside and proceeds to leap over the ropes with a senton over the top rope. Morrison hooks the leg but only gets a two count on Mysterio. Haas now sensing that Mysterio is in trouble makes the tag bringing himself in as he tagged Morrison on the back while his back was turned to his team’s corner.

Morrison asks Haas what that was about to which Haas brushes it off and immediately charges into the ring after Mysterio. Haas works over Mysterio doing his best to try and manipulate and torque the body of Mysterio into ways the human body should not be manipulated. Haas has Mysterio in a Boston Crab but the smaller competitor finds himself crawling towards his corner trying to make a hot tag to JTG. Haas pulls away Mysterio and finally breaks free before running over and knocking JTG off the apron! Shad Gaspard tries entering the ring but the referee tells Shad to get back to which Haas plays it off as if he has done nothing wrong. Haas turns his attention back to Mysterio as he drags him into his team’s corner and tags in The Miz.

The Miz comes in stomping away at Mysterio before pulling him back up and knocking him down with a hard left. Miz slaps Mysterio around a few times, taunting the veteran telling him that he is a disgrace. Miz grabs Mysterio by the mask telling him he needs to give it up but Mysterio responds by kicking Miz’s feet out from underneath him as now both men are down! Mysterio crawls towards his corner making the tag bringing in the big man of Cryme Tyme - Shad Gaspard! Shad comes in knocking The Miz down with a shoulder block before John Morrison tries to enter the ring. Morrison eats a Big Boot for his trouble as the camera now turns to Charlie Haas. Haas drops off the apron throwing his hands in the air saying he wants nothing to do with this. Haas instead charges over towards Mysterio as he ambushes Mysterio from behind sending him shoulder first into the steel steps!

Shad calls for JTG to come in during the chaos and JTG comes sliding into the ring just in time for the duo to hit the Recoil! JTG rolls out of the ring as Shad hooks the leg of The Miz as Cryme Tyme picks up the win for their team giving them much needed momentum heading into No Way Out this Sunday!

Match Result: Cryme Tyme & Rey Mysterio def. John Morrison, The Miz, & Charlie Haas

Jonathan Coachman is seen running down the hallway as Ms. Terrell has informed him that there has been a disturbance near the locker room! Coach arrives on the scene and sees Finlay and Chris Masters brawling with producers working on trying to break up the brawl. The two are finally separated as Coach shouts out that he’s had enough of this! “You two are always at odds with one another and I’ve had enough of it! So I tell you what we’re going to do! Sunday…at No Way Out it will be Finlay versus Chris Masters in a Street Fight. But that’s not all! Oh no! Both of you have been at one another’s throats for WAY too long so I need this to come to an end once and for all! And that is why the loser of the match LEAVES SMACKDOWN!” Finlay waves his shillelagh at Chris Masters telling him he’s “not going anywhere” while Masters is shouting back at Finlay telling him he will put Finlay to sleep for good on Sunday.

Prior to the main event we see a vignette package air of Jeff Hardy showcasing his career defining moments in his illustrious WWE career. Jeff is voicing over the video and says that he’s accomplished a lot in the WWE since he first arrived ten years ago. “I’m a multi time tag team champion, former Intercontinental and European Champion but one title that always eluded me is the World Heavyweight Championship.” Highlights of Hardy’s brawl with Umaga last week are shown with him running along the barricade and attacking Umaga. Hardy would eventually eat a Savate Kick from Umaga but he would get right back up and go after the champion once more. “I’ve let down a lot of people. I’ve squandered opportunities that have been handed to me in the past. I’ve disappointed the WWE Universe countless times. But most of all I’ve disappointed myself over the course of my career. But make no mistake - I won’t be a disappointment come Sunday when I do the one thing that NO ONE has been able to accomplish yet and that is take away Umaga’s World Heavyweight Championship and finally realize a boyhood dream.”

Back into the arena Michael Cole and Tazz discuss the vignette we just saw along with hyping up the card for this Sunday’s No Way Out pay-per-view. Tazz says he’s looking forward to the main event for sure but another match that has caught his attention is the battle between the veteran Edge and the savvy rookie Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler has been a thorn in Edge’s side since day one even managing to score an upset victory over the Rated R Superstar! Cole reminds Tazz that the victory was not without interference though thanks in large part to Raw’s Randy Orton sticking his nose in Edge’s business.

Three of SmackDown’s other championship belts will be on the line as Gregory Helms defends the Intercontinental Championship against Rob Van Dam, John Morrison and The Miz put their WWE Tag Team Championships up against Cryme Tyme and Evan Bourne goes one on one with Jamie Noble for the Cruiserweight Championship.

A few bitter rivalries will come to a head in two days time as Finlay and Chris Masters do battle in a Loser Leaves SmackDown Street Fight. Plus - the hired muscle of MVP - Big E does battle against the former hired muscle - Ezekiel Jackson. And for the final match the tension driven feud between Charlie Haas and Rey Mysterio finally ends on Sunday as the two bitter rivals go one on one. PLUS - the winner of the 2008 Royal Rumble - John Cena - will be in attendance!

Match #6 | Tag Team Main Event Match
Umaga & Dolph Ziggler vs. Jeff Hardy & Edge

And it’s main event time now with the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga teaming with the young rookie Dolph Ziggler to face off against the number one contender Jeff Hardy and Edge. We get a hard hitting main event between these four men who all have a bone to pick with one another for the most part. Umaga and Edge have history as well due to Umaga being the one who dethroned Edge as the World Heavyweight Champion back at Survivor Series inside of the Elimination Chamber. That being said Edge does not back down from Umaga when the two men come face to face in the ring as the two trade blows before Umaga catches Edge with a headbutt sending the Rated R Superstar reeling into his corner.

Jeff Hardy doesn’t look like he’s going to back down either and he proves this when he tags himself in on Edge. Hardy comes into the ring face to face with Umaga as the two share a brief staredown before Umaga throws his hands up yelling at Hardy to which Hardy responds with a kick to the gut of the champion. Hardy kicks Umaga again as the champion doubles over but as he goes to throw a right Umaga blocks it and hits Hardy with an uppercut! Umaga drags Hardy into the corner as he sets Hardy’s head against the bottom turnbuckle presumably looking for a Samoan Wrecking Ball but Dolph Ziggler slaps Umaga on the back tagging himself in. Armando Estrada shouts at Dolph saying “What are ‘ju doing” to which Ziggler brushes it off and slides into the ring.

Ziggler stomps away at Hardy in the corner before pulling himself up onto the ropes and holding himself up in a headstand like position on the top rope showing off a little before swinging back down and swinging his legs into the chest of Hardy! Ziggler throws Hardy over hooking the leg but only gets a two count. Ziggler grabs Hardy throwing him over on his side before shouting at Edge that “this will be you at No Way Out”. Ziggler drags Hardy by the hair into Edge’s corner as he slaps Hardy a few times in the face to try and drive the point home. Ziggler turns around and executes a perfect dropkick to Hardy’s face before turning around and running at Edge! Ziggler tries to knock Edge off the apron but Edge blocks it and hits Ziggler with an elbow to the face! Edge comes into the ring as he ducks underneath a swinging Ziggler before bouncing off the ropes and hits a SPEAR! Ziggler is broken in half as he flops around on the mat.

Umaga comes charging into the ring now not wanting to be left out but he also eats a SPEAR! The referee has lost complete control and calls for the bell as this match has been ruled a No Contest. Edge helps Jeff Hardy up as the two former bitter rivals in their tag team days look at Ziggler and Umaga and Hardy tells Edge to pull them both towards one another. Hardy heads to the top rope as Edge pulls Ziggler right beside Umaga! Hardy looks around the Toyota Center as the fans are encouraging him as he leaps off the top rope and hits a SWANTON BOMB ONTO ZIGGLER AND UMAGA! Hardy is helped back onto his feet by Edge as Edge holds Hardy’s hand high in the air and points to the World Heavyweight Championship belt that is in Umaga’s handler - Armando Estrada’s hands - as SmackDown comes to a close with No Way Out being only two nights away.

Match Result: Umaga & Dolph Ziggler vs. Jeff Hardy & Edge ended in a No Contest

Quick Match Results:

Shelton Benjamin def. Chuck Palumbo
Kid Kash & Tajiri def. Jimmy Wang Yang & Shannon Moore
Jamie Noble def. Psicosis via submission
Big E def. Super Crazy
Cryme Tyme & Rey Mysterio def. John Morrison, The Miz, & Charlie Haas
Umaga & Dolph Ziggler vs. Jeff Hardy & Edge ended in a No Contest

**********

WWE No Way Out
Sunday February 17, 2008
Thomas & Mack Center | Las Vegas, Nevada
Official Theme Song: "Fake It" by Seether

World Heavyweight Championship
Umaga © w/ Armando Estrada vs. Jeff Hardy

Intercontinental Championship
Gregory Helms © vs. Rob Van Dam

WWE Tag Team Championships
John Morrison & The Miz (c’s) vs. Cryme Tyme

Cruiserweight Championship
Evan Bourne © vs. Jamie Noble

Edge vs. Dolph Ziggler

Loser Leaves SmackDown Street Fight
Finlay vs. Chris Masters

Rey Mysterio vs. Charlie Haas

Big E w/ MVP vs. Ezekiel Jackson

PLUS...JOHN CENA WILL BE IN ATTENDANCE!

**********

WrestleMania XXIV | Sunday March 30, 2008
FedEx Field | Washington D.C.
Official Theme Songs: "Good Life" by Kanye West & "Light It Up" by Rev Theory

Hell in a Cell Match | For Ultimate Control of the WWE
Triple H w/ The McMahon’s vs. Kurt Angle w/ Paul Heyman & Eric Bischoff

United States Championship
John Bradshaw Layfield (c) vs. Winner of the Great American Challenge Tournament

Last Man Standing Match
Mr. Kennedy vs. Mick Foley

World Tag Team Championships
Priceless (Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase) (c's) vs. Winners of Tag Team Turmoil

PLUS

WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008

“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair
“The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes
And More TBA!!!​

 

[KOP]

WWE Presents
The 10th Annual WWE No Way Out Preview
Sunday February 17, 2008
Thomas & Mack Center | Las Vegas, Nevada

World Heavyweight Championship
Umaga © w/ Armando Estrada vs. Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy has what many may consider the opportunity of a lifetime in his first ever main event match on pay per view for the World Heavyweight Championship at No Way Out! Hardy has an opportunity to not only win his first major championship in WWE but also secure a spot in his first WrestleMania main event! The one trouble - he has to get through the “Samoan Bulldozer” Umaga - the current World Heavyweight Champion! That will not be an easy task by any means but Hardy has defied the odds for MANY years in his illustrious WWE career.

Jeff Hardy earned this opportunity on the SmackDown after the Royal Rumble when he won a Battle Royal to become the number one contender to Umaga’s World Heavyweight Championship. SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman then confirmed this would be the main event at No Way Out which pleased Umaga’s handler Armando Estrada as he has long considered this to be an easy “test” for Umaga heading into WrestleMania!

Hardy brought the fight to Umaga on the February 8th edition of SmackDown when he showed up interfering in the showdown between Umaga and the 2008 Royal Rumble winner John Cena who was making a special appearance on Friday Night SmackDown. Hardy crashed the party by running across the ring barricades and attacking Umaga! Umaga would gain the upper hand though on Hardy by landing a Savate Kick that knocked Hardy out of the fight momentarily. Cena would brawl with Umaga momentarily afterwards before Hardy got back up onto his feet and brought the fight back to Umaga once again! Despite the size disadvantage, Hardy has proven that he will fight anyone and everyone on the roster!

It was Hardy who would get the last laugh on the go home edition of SmackDown after the main event between Umaga and Dolph Ziggler versus Jeff Hardy and Edge ended in a no contest due to interference. Hardy would land a double Swanton Bomb onto both of his opponents to close out SmackDown with his hand raised high by his former rival Edge!

Umaga has been on a rampant tear since winning the World Heavyweight Championship at Survivor Series in the Elimination Chamber and it doesn’t look like he will be stopped anytime soon! The Royal Rumble saw Umaga defeat Shawn Michaels and cause him to leave on a stretcher after a series of brutal Samoan Spikes to the throat causing HBK to throw up blood! Michaels hasn’t been seen since the Royal Rumble and one must wonder if this is the same fate that awaits Jeff Hardy this Sunday! Will Umaga secure his spot at WrestleMania in his first main event or will Jeff Hardy defy the odds as he always has and win his first major championship in WWE?

Intercontinental Championship
Gregory Helms © vs. Rob Van Dam

While there is not much bad blood in this feud - it’s more of an opportunity for Gregory Helms to establish himself even further as one of the most dominant Intercontinental Champions of all time? The only problem is - that road has to go through five time Intercontinental Champion - Rob Van Dam! Van Dam won a Triple Threat Match on February 8 defeating Finlay and Chris Masters to set up this match. Two nights ago on SmackDown, Van Dam called out Helms for his attitude change and most of all how he has made a mockery of all of the championships he’s held in recent times. Van Dam told Helms all he has done is dodge competition and that he can’t dodge it any more because RVD is here to win his sixth Intercontinental Championship.

Helms took this personally as he initially thought Van Dam was referencing his attitude change to having evolved past “The Hurricane” gimmick to which Van Dam rebutted and made his comments regarding the treatment of championship belts and how he made a mockery of the Cruiserweight Championship by throwing it into the Gulf of Mexico. Helms finally heard enough and smacked Van Dam across the face but was quickly swept off his feet by Van Dam who stood over Helms telling him he’s going to have to “do better” in order to defeat RVD at No Way Out. Will we see Helms add another notch in his belt in his Intercontinental Championship reign that has now reached 112 days or will Rob Van Dam capture his sixth Intercontinental Championship?

Cruiserweight Championship
Evan Bourne © vs. Jamie Noble

By now the secret is out on Evan Bourne. Over one month into his debut in WWE he scored wins over Gregory Helms TWICE plus another win against former Cruiserweight Champion Tajiri. However, his undefeated streak came to an end on the February 1st Smackdown when he lost to the longest reigning Cruiserweight Champion ever in Jamie Noble (436 days). Noble brought an end to the strong month Bourne had in January and perhaps brought Bourne back down to reality a little bit. After all, Bourne did win his first pay per view match in WWE in the World’s Most Famous Arena - Madison Square Garden - which not many superstars can claim.

Noble doesn’t necessarily bring anything flashy to the feud but he does bring experience and veteran savviness that no doubt led to him being the greatest Cruiserweight Champion of all time. Noble has a variety of wins over legendary champions and cruiserweights over his career and if he’s seen one style he’s seen them all. While Bourne is no pushover, he will certainly be facing his biggest opponent to date at No Way Out! Will Bourne regain his championship and head on the road to WrestleMania with gold in hand or will he fall to Noble who is looking to compete in his third straight WrestleMania match?

WWE Tag Team Championships
John Morrison & The Miz (c’s) vs. Cryme Tyme

The self proclaimed “Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century” has arguably their toughest task to date this Sunday when they defend their WWE Tag Team Championships against the duo of JTG and Shad Gaspard of Cryme Tyme! Cryme Tyme scored an upset victory on the January 25th episode of SmackDown. To add insult to injury, JTG stole Miz’s fedora post match. Miz would regain the fedora the following week on SmackDown following a victory over JTG but the damage had been done by then. Cryme Tyme were officially locked in on Miz and Morrison’s radar at this point as the biggest threat they’ve faced to date with their championships on the line.

On the February 8th edition of SmackDown, the big man Shad Gaspard would avenge his partner’s loss by defeating John Morrison. Unfortunately for The Miz this led to a distraction that allowed JTG to rip Miz’s prized fedora off his head and proceed to sell it to the “highest bidder” at ringside. A fan offering $100 would eventually give JTG the quick come up but unfortunately for said fan this didn’t last long because The Miz ripped it out of the fan’s hands before retreating in embarrassment backstage.

On the go home episode of SmackDown; Cryme Tyme would team with Rey Mysterio and earn a big victory over Miz, Morrison, and Charlie Haas after Shad pinned The Miz to shift momentum in their favor heading into No Way Out. The antics of Cryme Tyme have certainly shifted Miz and Morrison off their games and will require them to focus at the task at hand on Sunday - retaining their championship gold. However, Cryme Tyme is hungry to earn their first tag team championships in the WWE and certainly could be argued as the favorites heading into this match? Who will emerge victorious in this battle of tag team supremacy Sunday at No Way Out?

Grudge Match
Edge vs. Dolph Ziggler

Distracted by the constant run ins from his former tag team partner Randy Orton, Edge must focus on the task at hand on Sunday at No Way Out - defeating Dolph Ziggler. This feud kicked off on the January 18th edition of SmackDown when Ziggler interrupted Edge who was out to talk about the Royal Rumble Match. Ziggler took offense to Edge not recognizing that he was the first SmackDown superstar to qualify for the Royal Rumble Match before proceeding to tell Edge that he is washed up. This of course did not sit well with the Rated R Superstar who had finally heard enough and after being provoked by Ziggler - Edge proceeded to spear Ziggler! But unfortunately for Edge he was almost immediately attacked from behind by Randy Orton from Raw with an RKO!

Ziggler would respond the following week on SmackDown when Edge opened up the show to address a myriad of issues - his ongoing feud with Randy Orton, the new “thorn in his side” of Dolph Ziggler and rumored issues with his brother Christian. Edge quickly nipped all of it in the bud but a distraction from Randy Orton on the jumbotron would allow Ziggler to sneak into the ring and hit a Zig Zag on Edge leaving The Rated R Superstar lying flat in the ring to kick off the show.

Ziggler and Edge would bump heads at the Royal Rumble after Ziggler received a disappointing draw for the Royal Rumble Match. Pleading with SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman to allow him to draw again, he would be interrupted by Edge who blocked the doorway preventing Ziggler from storming out after not getting his way from Coachman. A match would be set up for the following week on SmackDown for the two to finally settle their differences.

Edge would draw number one in the match while Ziggler drew nine and it took less than five minutes for Ziggler to be eliminated by Edge following a Spear! On the February 1st SmackDown the two competed earlier in the night in a 20 Man Battle Royal to determine Umaga’s opponent at No Way Out and again it was Ziggler being dumped over the ropes by Edge. Ziggler would hide underneath the ring though long enough to finally interfere and allow Jeff Hardy to dump Edge over.

It would be Ziggler receiving the final laugh on the same episode of SmackDown as his undefeated streak would continue in the biggest upset of the year when he pinned Edge albeit with some very big help from Randy Orton from Raw. Orton would hit the ring and pull the referee out of the ring before attacking Edge and throwing Ziggler on top of Edge for the pin fall. Orton would awaken the referee who had been knocked out after hitting the ground hard and the referee would count to three oblivious to what had occurred giving Ziggler his biggest win of his young career.

Edge would plead with Jonathan Coachman on the February 8th SmackDown to give him Randy Orton at No Way Out but Coachman told Edge his hands were tied in regards to allowing a Raw superstar to compete at No Way Out. However - he could give him Dolph Ziggler to finally settle their differences. The two would be back in action on the go home episode of SmackDown in the tag team main event match between Umaga and Ziggler versus Jeff Hardy and Edge. The match would end in a no contest with Jeff Hardy landing a Double Swanton onto Ziggler and Umaga having his hand raised high by his former tag team nemesis Edge. Will Ziggler pull off his second straight victory over Edge or will the Rated R Superstar right the ship as he continues to write his own story heading into WrestleMania?

Grudge Match
Rey Mysterio vs. Charlie Haas

A bitter feud nearly two months in the making finally comes to a head this Sunday at No Way Out. Following what many considered an “upset victory” by Haas over Rey Mysterio on the December 21st SmackDown - Haas set out to prove that he deserved a spot in the Royal Rumble Match. The former Intercontinental Champion was quick to note however that certain people around SmackDown in his opinion did not share that same thought process though. Haas would single out SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman saying that he’s been targeting Haas for months on end now due to him not conforming to what Coachman believes should be a SmackDown superstar.

Haas would confront Coachman again on the January 11th episode of SmackDown asking him once more as to why he has yet to receive a spot in the Royal Rumble. Haas would told that he could be patient just like all of the other SmackDown superstars who were waiting to see if they’d receive a spot. This set Haas off after reminding Coachman that he beat SmackDown staple Rey Mysterio and asking Coach what else exactly he needed to do. Haas told Coachman that this was not the answer that he wanted to hear and that he guessed he would just have to take matters into his own hands to prove his mettle.

And that is exactly what he did later that night following Rey Mysterio’s victory over Kid Kash. Charlie Haas would ambush Mysterio post match with a steel chair laying into his opponent from three weeks ago in a clear statement being made to the GM. Haas would lock in the Haastile Takeover before security would have to come down and rip Haas off of Mysterio.

Both men would be absent from the following week’s SmackDown with Mysterio being medically unable to appear and with Haas being forced to take an unpaid leave of absence. Coachman would later confirm that night that due to his heinous attack on Mysterio last week that Charlie Haas would NOT be competing in the Royal Rumble Match.

We would not hear from Haas again until the February 1st episode of SmackDown after he showed back up. Coachman tried to rebut by telling Haas he was not allowed to be in the arena but Haas prevented the door from being shut by blocking it with his foot before smugly handing off a note to the GM that stated: “Dear Mr. Coachman, The Board of Directors have reviewed the recent suspension of Mr. Charlie Haas and have determined that he was unfairly suspended and has suffered financial and personal hardship due to this unforeseen suspension. We have elected as a board to reinstate Mr. Haas effective immediately”.

Haas would quickly turn the tables on Coachman telling him that if he doesn’t get what he wants he’d hate to go to the Board of Directors again. Coachman obliges Haas’ request begrudgingly but Haas says his demand is Rey Mysterio at No Way Out. Haas told Mysterio the following week on SmackDown that he’s just “misunderstood” and that he’s tired of being in the shadow of others. First it was Team Angle with Kurt Angle and Shelton Benjamin. Then it was with the other two people he won tag team gold with - Rico and Ric Flair. Now he will no longer be in the shadows. Now he will be front and center after he defeats SmackDown’s golden boy - Rey Mysterio.

Will Haas do what he said he will do and emerge as a top player on SmackDown or will the months of turmoil cause Mysterio to step up and put Haas down?

Singles Match
Big E w/ MVP vs. Ezekiel Jackson

On the January 11th episode of SmackDown; Ezekiel Jackson would suffer a defeat to Rob Van Dam. Post match Jackson would be attacked by a mysterious man to soon be revealed as Big E. Jackson who was formally the bodyguard of MVP was apologized to by MVP saying that he was “sorry…sorry that he didn’t initially hire the best back up money could be”. MVP and Big E stood over Ezekiel Jackson with MVP saying that he now had the best bodyguard that money could buy and he would celebrate with Big E the following week on SmackDown with a champagne toast and a mini party in the locker room.

The go home episode of SmackDown saw MVP and Big E meet up with SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman with MVP informing Coachman that he was expecting to have the biggest party yet for a Royal Rumble winner the next week on SmackDown. Coachman asked MVP how he was so certain he was going to win to which MVP simply responded that no one can compete in the biggest setting with the biggest and highest paid superstar ever in the WWE. MVP told Coachman he had one request though for the party and that was to ensure that Ezekiel Jackson was not allowed in the building.

Both MVP and Big E would compete in the #1 Contender’s Battle Royal and unceremoniously dump Jackson over the ropes while he was distracted, never giving us a showdown between the two big men. Later on in the night Jackson would defeat Deuce in a singles match to which Big E and MVP responded by coming out and staring down Jackson with no words being exchanged. The following week would see this match made official between these two behemoths in what is set to be one of the biggest (sizewise) matchups in quite a while for SmackDown. Will Big E prove why he was brought in as the new hired muscle of MVP or will Ezekiel Jackson show why he should have never been fired?

Street Fight | Loser Leaves SmackDown
Finlay vs. Chris Masters

Former allies turned bitter rivals come to an ultimate head Sunday at No Way Out as the loser of the Street Fight between Finlay and Chris Masters MUST LEAVE SMACKDOWN! Both men were initially recruited by Ric Flair as backups in his feud with Shawn Michaels that resulted in Flair’s team losing at Survivor Series causing Flair to have to come to an early retirement despite not necessarily the way he may have wanted to go out in his illustrious career. This irritated both Finlay and Chris Masters and it led to a match between HBK and Masters at Armageddon with “The Nature Boy” in Masters’ corner. Masters would lose to HBK but post match would surprise the fans as he locked in the now retired Flair with a Masterlock incapacitating his former mentor.

Finlay would confront Masters on SmackDown two weeks later saying he saw what Masters did at Armageddon and he didn’t find it necessary. Masters rebutted back at Finlay that he needs to mind his own damn business and the only reason they were both allies was because Flair saw potential in Masters - not Finlay! Finlay was just an extra body. Finlay warns Masters that he needs to watch his mouth when he talks to veterans or he will punch him square in the mouth.

Finlay would appear on commentary on the January 11th episode of SmackDown which saw Chris Masters lose via countout to Jeff Hardy. Michael Cole and Tazz asked Finlay if he knew what that was all about in reference to Masters just leaving the ring to which Finlay said he would get to the bottom of this. Finlay confronted Masters backstage as to why he left the ring to which the Masterpiece told him “to mind your own business you old bastard”. A fight would ensue with Finlay shoving Masters over a coffee table before security would break the two men up. Masters warned Finlay if he ever messed with him again that he would “end his career for good”.

Finlay would compete the following week against the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga and earlier in the night he came out to confront Armando Estrada who asked Finlay if he had a death wish by stepping into the ring with “The Samoan Bulldozer” Umaga. Finlay said he didn’t have a death wish but that he backs down from no man and we all saw that last week when he fought with Chris Masters. Masters retaliated by ambushing Finlay on the stage before security would have to pull Masters away this week. Finlay would lose to Umaga via disqualification after Shawn Michaels hit Umaga with a Sweet Chin Music starting an all out brawl between the two.

The following week on the go home episode of SmackDown was set to see Umaga and Chris Masters team against Shawn Michaels and Finlay in the main event. However, a pre match brawl occurred when Umaga and Masters ambushed Michaels backstage. Finlay would come to the aide of HBK but Finlay couldn’t overcome Umaga who manhandled Finlay throwing him into a steel cage structure before pummeling Finlay. Masters would jump in on the attack as well as the main event match was unable to take place.

On the February 1st SmackDown; Finlay and Masters would do battle in the number one contender’s Battle Royal and simultaneously eliminate one another. They would get their hands on one another once again the following week on SmackDown in a Triple Threat Match to determine Gregory Helms opponent at No Way Out for the Intercontinental Championship. Masters would be pinned by Rob Van Dam who had shoved Finlay out of the ring in the nick of time as it looked as if Finlay would be moving on to face Helms at No Way Out.

On the go home episode of SmackDown; the two men had to once again be separated by security to which SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman intervened and said he had had enough. This led to Coachman announcing that a Street Fight would take place at No Way Out and the loser MUST leave SmackDown. Who will we see the last of this Sunday at No Way Out? Will it be Finlay or Chris Masters?

JOHN CENA MAKES SPECIAL APPEARANCE

On the eve of his big announcement on Monday Night Raw on who he will face at WrestleMania - John Cena will be in the Thomas & Mack Center! Cena received an invite from SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman and his intern Ms. Terrell to come to the blue brand’s final big event before WrestleMania. What role will Cena play? Will he give us a clue as to what his plans are for Monday on Raw in Anaheim? ​

 

[KOP]

WWE No Way Out 2008 | Sunday February 17, 2008
Thomas & Mack Center | Las Vegas, Nevada

We open up to a black screen before a light shines on a person sitting inside of a jail cell. The person we cannot see their face or likeness as it appears to just be a random person.

Narrator
Troubled by their past trials and tribulations…

“The Charismatic Enigma” Jeff Hardy taking leaps of faith including his recent TLC Match with Paul London against John Morrison & The Miz but more recently him running across the barricade attacking Umaga is shown

Narrator
The superstars of SmackDown must confront their inner demons…

Past videos of Hardy discussing his personal life and what led to him being let go by WWE in 2003. The battle back to return in 2006 is discussed as Hardy says he takes nothing for granted now and that he has atoned for his past life.

Narrator
And take on their outer struggles head on…

The World Heavyweight Champion Umaga laying waste to superstars in his path since capturing the World Heavyweight Championship at Survivor Series is shown. The main clip we get though is Umaga attacking Shawn Michaels post match at the Royal Rumble hitting him with multiple Samoan Spikes causing HBK to cough up blood and have to be carried out on a stretcher.

Narrator
Rivalries will culminate…

The intense feuds between Charlie Haas and Rey Mysterio and Finlay and Chris Masters multiple brawls are up next. Haas attacking Mysterio with a steel chair and Finlay and Masters brawling backstage is shown.

Narrator
And champions will emerge…

The feuds between Rob Van Dam and Gregory Helms and Morrison & Miz vs. Cryme Tyme are shown next. A few key clips are Helms smacking Van Dam across the face before being swept off of his feet and JTG stealing Miz’s fedora TWICE before selling it and Miz ripping it back from the fan who purchased it.

Narrator
A bitter feud will see one superstar leave SmackDown forever…

Finlay and Masters coming nose to nose is shown.

Narrator
While others make their mark on their new home…

Dolph Ziggler’s surprising victory over Edge thanks in large part to Randy Orton is shown plus some clips of Bobby Lashley in action at the Royal Rumble where he made his return and also SmackDown’s newest superstar Shelton Benjamin is featured.

Narrator
And we must not forget…

Narrator
The Road to WrestleMania slows down for no one…

Narrator
There’s nowhere to go…

The clips begin to speed up as we are seeing a real person view of a car speeding down the highway. Multiple clips of Umaga, Jeff Hardy, Dolph Ziggler, Edge, MVP, Gregory Helms and Rob Van Dam hitting their signature moves is shown.

Narrator
Nowhere to run…

More brawling between Finlay and Chris Masters plus the confrontation of Big E and Ezekiel Jackson staring down one another is next. The car revs up as it drives further down the road driving past the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign as we see the bright lights of Las Vegas in the distance.

Narrator
Nowhere to hide…

The images of superstars begin to fly past us at lightning speed before we finally see the car drive into the Thomas & Mack Center before finally coming crashing through a brick wall that we see the No Way Out logo emerge from!

Narrator
Tonight…there is NO…WAY…OUT!

WE’RE LIVE IN LAS VEGAS tonight where SmackDown is presenting the final pay per view before WrestleMania - WWE No Way Out! “Fake It” by Seether is blaring as we see the stage is decorated with steel chains covering portions of the video boards where the superstars walk out and the main jumbotron screen is shaped in the form of the famous Las Vegas sign with steel chains wrapped around the bottom and the No Way Out padlock logo underneath it. We span across the arena with the fans in Las Vegas going wild before we head down to ringside to the commentary team from SmackDown - Michael Cole and Tazz!

Michael Cole
Welcome to the tenth annual WWE No Way Out emanating live from the Thomas and Mack Center in the bright lights of Las Vegas, Nevada! The night is young as SmackDown presents what is going to be an excellent show with with some major WrestleMania implications on the line!

Tazz
Over fifteen thousand fans are jam packed into the Thomas and Mack Center for what promises to be a big stop on the road to WrestleMania. Tonight we get a clearer path on what the path to WrestleMania will look like for many superstars!

Michael Cole
Eight matches are on the card for tonight including our main event which will see “The Charismatic Enigma” Jeff Hardy receive his first ever shot at the World Heavyweight Championship as he goes one on one with the champion - “The Samoan Bulldozer” Umaga who has been an unstoppable force.

Tazz
Quite a task ahead of Jeff Hardy but he’s made quite a career out of shocking the world! And Cole don’t forget we have a VERY special guest in attendance tonight as well - the winner of the 2008 Royal Rumble, John Cena, will be joining us tonight from Monday Night Raw!

Michael Cole
Four big championship matches plus several grudge matches including our opening contest which will be a Loser Leaves SmackDown Street Fight between the “Fighting IrishMan” Finlay and his former friend and ally “The Masterpiece” Chris Masters

Tazz
What a way to kick off tonight’s show! Let's go ahead and send it over to Tony Chimel who’s already in the ring!

***LAMBEG***

Out first tonight is “The Fighting Irishman” Finlay as he as always is carrying his shillelagh with him ready for battle! Finlay comes out to a nice ovation from the fans who are ecstatic to get tonight’s show underway! Finlay stops halfway down the ring and grabs a rolling cart full of weapons and pushes it down the ramp before throwing several of the weapons into the ring such as a kendo stick, trash can lid, and a steel chair. Finlay rolls into the ring slapping his shillelagh on the corner turnbuckles ramping himself up for action as he awaits his former tag partner Chris Masters.

Tony Chimel
The following contest is a Street Fight where the loser of the match MUST leave Friday Night SmackDown! Introducing first headed to the ring from Belfast, Northern Ireland weighing in at two hundred and thirty pounds - he is FINLAY!!!

***MASTERPIECE***

The chiseled superstar “The Masterpiece” Chris Masters is out next but he doesn’t stop and do his poses as he normally does for his entrance. Not tonight! Instead the Masterpiece drops his cloak on the stage and points towards Finlay as he slowly walks towards the ring eyeing Finlay down knowing he has an opportunity to rid himself of his bitter rival once and for all! Cole and Tazz both discuss how this will be the end of either Finlay or Chris Masters tenures on SmackDown because the loser leaves SmackDown!

Tony Chimel
And introducing his opponent hailing from Los Angeles, California weighing in at two hundred and sixty-five pounds - he is “The Masterpiece” Chris Masters!!!

Match #1 | Street Fight Match
Loser Leaves SmackDown
Finlay vs. Chris Masters

Our opening contest is underway as the referee calls for the bell and we immediately see Finlay and Chris Masters go after one another! Right hands are being thrown wildly by both men as the two former allies are not backing down from one another! Finlay backs Masters into the corner and hits Masters with a shot to the gut before hitting him with a headbutt sending Masters head flying back hitting the turnbuckle. Finlay goes for a head thrust to the sternum of Masters but Masters hits Finlay with a right hand before getting a running start and driving Finlay into the air and back into the mat with a thunderous slam!

Masters mounts Finlay throwing right after right causing Finlay’s head to whip off of the mat repeatedly! Masters looks ready to go ahead and get the no holds barred portion of the match underway as he grabs a steel chair and pushes it against the throat of Finlay! Finlay is working as hard as he can to push the chair off of his throat but Masters is not budging! Masters lifts the chair high into the air looking to drive it into the throat of Finlay but Finlay kicks the chair out of the way causing it to fly out of Masters hands! Master who was standing directly over Finlay bends down to grab Finlay but the savvy veteran rakes the eye of the Masterpiece.

Finlay crawls towards the kendo stick and as Masters comes back towards Finlay - he hits Masters in the head with the kendo stick! Finlay pulls himself up with the aid of the ring ropes and proceeds to hit Masters repeatedly in the chest with the kendo stick! Masters sternum is turning red from the repetitive series of kendo stick shots! Finlay finishes Masters off with a final kendo stick shot for good measure causing the stick to break in half! Finlay jumps on top of Masters, hooking the leg as the referee charges over for the pin fall count.

One…

…Two

Kick out at two from the Masterpiece! Finlay pulls Masters up onto his feet pushing him into the corner with a big European Uppercut sending the youngster reeling. Finlay grabs Masters by the neck, flipping him forward with a Snapmare before driving a knee into the back of his former friend and tag team partner. Finlay wraps his arm around Master's neck with a headlock! The veteran tightens his grip as Masters is working as hard as possible to break free of the headlock but Finlay is not going to let it be broken that easily!

However - the strength of “The Masterpiece” Chris Masters ends up being way too much as he is able to slowly start moving Finlay’s arm away from his neck. The young up and comer pushes Finlay’s arm backwards pushing it away from his neck before hitting Finlay with an uppercut of his own to the face of Finlay! Finlay stumbles backwards as Chris Masters runs at Finlay but the Irishman ducks underneath a clothesline attempt from Masters! Masters springs off the ropes propelling himself towards Finlay but Finlay hits Masters with a Jumping High Knee! Masters falls backwards as Finlay pounces on top of him, hooking the leg for the second time in the match.

One…

…Two

Another kick out at exactly two as Chris Masters refuses to go down that easily! Finlay gets back onto his feet and takes a few steps back before jumping right back on top of Masters with a Seated Senton! Masters lets out a loud cough as that move caught him off guard. Finlay rolls towards the outside of the ring as he looks underneath the ring and he’s looking for another weapon to utilize! Finlay digs around for a few seconds before we see a familiar face - HORNSWOGGLE - slide out from underneath the ring! Finlay hasn’t seen Hornswoggle in YEARS! Hornswoggle points to himself as Finlay gives him a hug and perhaps some motivation to win this match! Hornswoggle jumps up and down as he points underneath the ring signaling for Finlay to grab a weapon of Hornswoggle’s choice!

Finlay reaches underneath and grabs a shillelagh - albeit a miniature shillelagh! Finlay laughs it off and instead tells Hornswoggle he will use his own shillelagh! Finlay walks towards the corner of his ring where he stored his shillelagh. Finlay goes to grab the shillelagh but we see Chris Masters roll to the outside of the ring and sneak up behind Finlay pushing Finlay shoulder first into the steel ring post! Masters turns his attention to Hornswoggle as the two have a brief staredown. Hornswoggle puts his hands together beginning Masters to not hurt him! Masters wipes his face before running at Hornswoggle but Hornswoggle slides underneath Masters legs!

Hornswoggle runs around the ring avoiding Masters to which Masters pays him no mind! The Masterpiece is not going to fall into Hornswoggle’s trap as he awaits the leprechaun to make his return. Instead we see Hornswoggle slide back under the apron on the other side of the ring. Masters looks around for a second presuming Hornswoggle is going to return but once he doesn’t make it back to where Masters is - the Masterpiece becomes very suspicious! Masters bends down to look under the ring to which Hornswoggle jumps out at Masters! A startled Masters jumps and right as he pulls himself back up he’s hit with a Short-arm Clothesline from Finlay!

Finlay pushes Masters towards the ring apron and lifts the apron up over the body of Masters trapping the Masterpiece in the ring apron! Finlay head butts Masters again before hitting Masters with a series of chops! Finlay lets Masters out before rolling him back into the ring and rolling himself back in. Finlay charges towards Masters and leaps up hitting Masters with a Double Foot Stomp right into the heart of Masters! Finlay jumps on top of Masters looking for another pin fall victory.

One…

…Two

Another kick out at two from Masters! Finlay realizes he’s going to need to turn it up a notch as he heads back towards the outside of the ring and grabs the steel steps and throws them into the ring! But Finlay isn’t done there! He looks under the apron again and pulls out a table! Finlay pushes the table into the ring as he rolls back in himself and begins to work on setting the table up! Finlay pulls the table legs out and sets the table up near the corner as it looks like he’s thinking of perhaps looking to finish Masters off here with a Celtic Cross through the table? Masters is stirring a little but he’s pulled back up by Finlay who beats Masters with a few right hands before dragging him over near the corner where he has set up the table. Finlay grabs Masters looking to lift him up onto his shoulders but Masters pushes Finlay off!

Finlay stumbles backwards and away from the table but as he turns around he’s turned inside out by a Polish Hammer from Masters. Masters jumps on top of Finlay, hooking the leg as he goes for his first pin fall of the opening contest.

One…

…Two

T…

Kick out and two and a quarter as Finlay is proving it’s going to take more than a Polish Hammer to banish him from SmackDown! Masters looks around the ring looking for his weapon of choice right now and his eyes lock in on Finlay’s shillelagh in the corner! Masters has a smirk come across his face as he walks over and bends over picking up the shillelagh! Masters pats the shillelagh against his hand in a “well…well…well” manner as he makes his way back towards Finlay! Masters goes to swing the shillelagh at Finlay’s head but Finlay kicks Masters legs out from underneath him causing him to fall face first onto the mat and send the shillelagh flying away from The Masterpiece.

Finlay rolls around the ring still clutching at his chest from the Polish Hammer. He’s able to maneuver himself towards the bottom ring rope and instead of pulling himself back onto his feet he rolls to the outside of the ring. Finlay regains his footing and drags Chris Masters to the outside of the ring where he spins Masters around and drives him back first into the Spanish commentary table! Finlay rips off the cover for the table, throwing it off to the side before grabbing the television monitors and unplugging them and disposing of them. Finlay beats Masters a few times on the back before throwing Masters onto the table.

The Fighting Irishman pulls himself up on the table and bends down to pick Masters up but Masters kicks Finlay in his knee! He follows this up with several kicks to Finlay’s knee causing him to drop down onto one knee. Masters pulls himself back up and proceeds to knee Finlay in the face before climbing off the table! The fans think Masters may be done with the table but that’s not the case as he pulls Finlay off the table and lifts him high into the air! Finlay is dangling in the air as Masters shows off his strength keeping Finlay upside down in a straight up position before bringing Finlay crashing through the table with a Delayed Vertical Suplex!

Finlay’s body collapses with the table as Masters shouts at him to “stay down”. Masters pulls the body of Finlay back up and drives him back first into the barricade! The Spanish commentators have scattered and this allows Masters to grab one of their rolling chairs and throw it at Finlay! The back cushioned part of the chair hits Finlay as Masters is throwing literally EVERYTHING he can at Finlay to try and force the veteran to leave the blue brand. Finlay looks to have a cut above his eyebrow now as some blood is beginning to trickle down his face.

“The Masterpiece” grabs Finlay by the singlet dragging him back towards the ring as he pushes Finlay under the bottom rope and back into the ring. Masters looks ready to slide back into the ring himself but he feels a grasp at his leg! IT’S HORNSWOGGLE AGAIN! Hornswoggle holds onto Master’s leg holding on for dear life as Masters takes a step back and pulls Hornswoggle out from underneath the ring! Hornswoggle is dragged across the outside mat as he looks up at Masters pleading with him to not hurt him! Masters kicks Hornswoggle in the head! Masters goes to lift his leg up to curb stomp the head of Hornswoggle but Hornswoggle slides back underneath the ring and away from danger!

Not wanting to pay Hornswoggle anymore mind - The Masterpiece rolls underneath the bottom rope and drags himself towards Finlay! Masters goes to bend over to pick Finlay up but FINLAY CLUBS MASTERS ACROSS THE FOREHEAD WITH THE SHILLELAGH! Finlay had apparently dragged himself towards the shillelagh and hid it from Masters unbeknownst to him. Masters falls backwards clutching his forehead as he too now has been busted open as more blood flows down his face in comparison to Finlay’s cut! Both men are down but with no count outs - the referee has no choice but to watch and ensure both men can still compete.

About twenty seconds goes by as Finlay finally drags himself towards Chris Masters as he throws his arm with shillelagh still in hand over Masters.

One…

….Two

Thre…

SHOULDER UP FROM CHRIS MASTERS! HOW? Michael Cole is STUNNED that Masters was able to get a shoulder up as is Tazz as the duo thought for sure Finlay had it wrapped up! Finlay rolls over on his back looking as equally stunned as the fans are in Las Vegas! Finlay pulls himself up onto one knee as he throws the shillelagh to the side abandoning it for now! Once Finlay is back on his feet he grabs Masters pulling up his arch rival onto his feet and throwing him onto his shoulders before hitting Rolling Hills! Finlay doesn’t look for a pin fall attempt though as he knows he’s going to have to pull out all the stops to put away The Masterpiece.

Finlay maneuvers towards the steel steps setting them up near a free corner as he seems to be looking to try and finish off the match once and for all. Finlay drags Masters towards said corner and throws him onto his shoulders before carrying the larger opponent onto the middle turnbuckle! Finlay looks ready to leap off the middle rope onto the steel steps with the Celtic Cross but Masters retaliates by elbowing Finlay in the head! Masters follows it up with a few more elbows to the head before sliding off of the shoulders of Finlay onto the outside of the ring apron!

Masters gets back into the ring and right at that moment Finlay leaps off the ropes right into the arms of Masters! Masters catches Finlay and DRIVES HIM BACK FIRST INTO THE STEEL STEPS WITH A SPINEBUSTER! Finlay has been broken damn near in half! The Fighting Irishman lets out a primal scream as he may be done for! Masters pushes Finlay down the steel steps before throwing his arm over Finlay.

One…

….Two

Thre…

SHOULDER UP FROM FINLAY! The WWE Universe is absolutely in shock right now! Masters is just as stunned as the fans! He looks around the ring while on one knee and looks back towards the steel chair he had used earlier on in the match! Masters grabs said steel chair and grabs the head of Finlay and lays his head on the bottom step of the steel steps with the rest of Finlay’s body lying flat on the ring mat. The referee has an idea of where this is going as he pleads with Masters to not do this but ultimately anything goes!

Masters looks at the steel chair and wipes some blood off of his face as it trickles down into his eye before he lifts the steel chair high into the air! Time seems to freeze momentarily as the steel chair dangles in the air for a second before Masters brings the chair crashing into FINLAY’S HEAD ON THE STEEL STEPS WITH A CON-CHAIR-TO! The steel ring steps served as the bottom layer of the con-chair-to and there is absolutely NO WAY Finlay can carry on anymore!

The referee bends down to check on Finlay as the Fighting Irishman is completely silent and not moving! The referee tries to force Chris Masters back but Masters is having none of it! Masters pulls Finlay up as the referee tries to tell Masters that this match is over! Masters ignores the referee grasping his arms around the neck of Finlay, locking in the Masterlock! Masters tightens the grip of the lifeless body of Finlay as he swings him around like a rag doll as the referee tells Masters that is enough as he calls for the bell as Finlay is unable to compete any longer!

Tony Chimel
Here is your winner “The Masterpiece” Chris Masters! As a result of his loss - Finlay MUST leave Friday Night SmackDown!!!

Match Result: Chris Masters def. Finlay at 12: 38 via referee stoppage; as a result Finlay must leave Friday Night SmackDown

Masters stands over his former friend Finlay for a few seconds as he looks down at him and shakes his head in disgust. Masters steps over the body of Finlay showing even more disrespect as we see paramedics rush down with a stretcher. Masters watches from halfway up the ramp with a smirk on his face as the medical team tends to Finlay checking on him. It’s determined Finlay needs to be loaded onto the stretcher and Masters exits watching his opponent be taken away for the final time on SmackDown.

Michael Cole
An absolutely appalling reaction from “The Masterpiece’ Chris Masters to stand there and smirk while Finlay is carted away on a stretcher!

Tazz
“The Masterpiece” proved tonight why he is certainly not the one to mess with. He stepped out of his comfort zone tonight and unleashed quite frankly a side we’ve never seen of him before.

Michael Cole
Ladies and gentlemen we are being told that Finlay will have to be taken to a local medical facility for further examination to determine if there was any injury. We will send it backstage now as SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman is working to get an update.

Backstage - SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman is seen heading towards the EMT team who are working on getting Finlay to an ambulance. The paramedics push quickly past the GM as Coach is trying to get what information he can get from the medics

Jonathan Coachman
Can someone please tell me if Finlay will be okay?

Paramedic
Sir…we’ve got to go now!

The paramedic teams load up Finlay and get him into the ambulance as the ambulance takes off for the local medical facility. Coachman shows his concern for what he has just seen even if Finlay is no longer a SmackDown superstar. The human element is clearly wearing on Coach’s mind. Coach begins to walk down the hallway as he’s stopped by his assistant - Ms. Terrell

Ms. Terell
Mr. Coachman! I’ve been looking everywhere for you!

Ms. Terrell is dressed to the nines tonight as she is in a stunning blue dress representing the blue brand well. Ms. Terrell looks at the face of the GM and is concerned with the look he has.

Ms. Terrell
I have made arrangements to have someone check up on Finlay throughout the night! But I did have one more idea I wanted to pitch to you…

The Coach looks defeated as he finally motions towards Ms. Terrell telling her to go ahead and say what she has to say.

Ms. Terrell
Well…John Cena is going to be LIVE here tonight in Las Vegas! So I was thinking…

Coach perks up a little as he looks a little intrigued as to what Ms. Terrell has to say.

Ms. Terrell
What if we gave John a FRONT ROW SEAT as the Special Enforcer for tonight’s World Heavyweight Championship match?

The Las Vegas crowd likes that as a loud pop spreads across the arena. Ms. Terrell has a bright smile on her face as the GM looks at her and he starts to smile a little.

Jonathan Coachman
You know what…you may be on to something! I think that is a GREAT idea! It may be somewhat of a preview of WrestleMania WHEN John Cena decides to come back home to Friday Night SmackDown!

Ms. Terrell’s smile grows as she nods her head in agreement.

Ms. Terrell
Absolutely!

Jonathan Coachman
Well then it is official. It’ll be Umaga defending his World Heavyweight Championship against Jeff Hardy with JOHN CENA as Special Enforcer at ringside! Thanks for another great idea Ms. Terrell!

Ms. Terrell
Anytime Mr. Coachman! Now if you’ll excuse me - I’ve got another big idea I’m working on.

Ms. Terrell walks away as Coachman’s demeanor seems to have improved a little more despite the tumultuous start to the show with a brutal opening Street Fight. Coachman walks down the aisle as the camera heads back into the arena to where Michael Cole and Tazz are seated at ringside.

Michael Cole
Ladies and gentlemen we will provide you updates throughout the evening as we receive them regarding Finlay. As you all are aware the only update we have at this time is that he has been transported to a local medical facility for further examination.

Tazz
I am absolutely stunned at what we just witnessed! Quite frankly I have never seen that side of Chris Masters and I don’t know if I ever want to again. His eyes looked possessed when he swung the steel chair into Finlay’s head!

Michael Cole
It’s time for our first of four championship matches of the evening as John Morrison & The Miz face off against JTG and Shad Gaspard - Cryme Tyme - for the WWE Tag Team Championships!

***BRINGIN’ DA HOOD 2 U***

Out first are the challengers JTG and Shad Gaspard - Cryme Tyme! Both men are as excited as ever as they are receiving their first WWE Tag Team Championship match since coming to WWE! JTG jumps up and slaps hands with big Shad Gaspard as the duo head towards the ring playing to the fans. JTG fake steals a kids hat headed down the ramp before placing it back on the kid and playfully joking with the kid. JTG slides into the ring as Shad climbs up the steel ring steps and enters the ring. The duo pose in the center of the ring with JTG showing off his chain and Shad standing firmly behind his friend and tag partner.

Tony Chimel
The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is for the WWE Tag Team Championships! Introducing first weighing in at a combined weight of five hundred and thirty points - they are JTG and Shad Gaspard - CRYME TYME!!!

***AIN’T NO MAKE BELIEVE***

The WWE Tag Team Champions are out next with Miz proudly sporting his fedora he had to steal back from a fan a few weeks back on SmackDown. The champions receive their usual slo-mo entrance with Miz kneeling down on both knees holding his championship high as Morrison poses behind him! Miz jumps back up as the duo mock fans on their way to the ring waving their championships in their faces. Miz goes to stick his title out to let a child touch it but he pulls it back and laughs in the kid’s face. The duo roll into the ring as they trash talk Cryme Tyme before posing on the top rope for Morrison and Miz beside him bouncing up and down on the middle rope as they are prepared to defend their gold tonight against JTG and Shad Gaspard.

Tony Chimel
And introducing next weighing in at a combined weight of four hundred and fifty pounds, they are the WWE Tag Team Champions…JOHN MORRISON AND THE MIZ!!!

Match #2 | WWE Tag Team Championships
John Morrison & The Miz (c’s) vs. Cryme Tyme

We’re underway as John Morrison and JTG are going to start the match off for their respective teams. Morrison circles around the ring bouncing around confidently as JTG points at him and tells Shad to take a look at this! Morrison acts as if he is going to jump forward and lock up with JTG but he backs away and continues to dance from side to side apparently staying fresh but mocking JTG in the process. JTG circles around a few times before finally jumping forward towards Morrison locking him up and finally we are underway! JTG twists the arm of Morrison behind his back before running him forwards towards the ropes. Morrison stops at the ropes as he uses his momentum to push JTG back, breaking the hold.

Morrison jumps onto the middle rope and tries to leap into the air catching JTG off guard with a Springboard Crossbody but instead he eats a dropkick from JTG for his troubles. JTG hooks the leg of Morrison quickly looking for a quick victory.

One…

…T

Quick kick out at two from Morrison! JTG tries to charge at Morrison with a running knee to his back but Morrison shows off his athleticism and slides underneath the bottom rope to safety! Morrison taunts JTG trying to goad him into chasing him around the ring but JTG isn’t falling for it! Shad jumps off the ring though and starts walking towards Morrison who is backing up begging Shad to not touch him! Shad inches closer and closer to Morrison but he’s attacked from behind by The Miz with a left hand. The punch barely affects Shad as Shad turns around and heads towards The Miz now but Miz scurries away! Morrison takes this opportunity to chop block Shad knocking him down to one knee.

JTG slides to the outside of the ring at this time but as he does Morrison slides back in. JTG tries to get back into the ring but Morrison hits a sliding baseball kick causing JTG to stumble back towards the barricade! Morrison slides now back to the outside of the ring and picks JTG up before dropping him chest first onto the barricade! Morrison then grabs JTG once more and rolls him into the ring before climbing back onto the apron. Morrison then jumps over the top rope landing a perfect Slingshot Elbow Drop right into the heart of JTG. Morrison hooks the leg as he counts along with the referee.

One…

…Two

Not surprisingly a kick out from JTG! Morrison looks to his corner as The Miz is calling for the tag now as he’s amped up from helping his tag partner earlier take down the big man in Shad Gaspard albeit temporarily. Morrison drags JTG over and tags in The Miz who runs in with a Running Knee to the face of JTG. Miz pounces on top of JTG hooking the leg himself early on.

One…

…Two

Kick out once more from JTG at two to keep Cryme Tyme’s hopes alive. The Miz begins to taunt JTG now as he slaps him repeatedly telling him to get up and that he has no chance of winning this match. JTG gets onto all fours now as he tries to pull himself back up but Miz throws JTG’s head underneath his arm and hits a Snap DDT! Miz gets back onto his feet and stomps away at JTG for a few seconds before picking him back up and sending him flying into Miz and Morrison’s corner. The A-Lister heads into the opposing corner where Shad Gaspard is slowly starting to stir and head back towards the ring apron.

The Miz charges into the corner looking for a Jumping Corner Clothesline onto JTG but JTG rolls through and escapes the corner causing Miz to get caught up on the ropes! Morrison makes the tag on The Miz while JTG who is completely unaware of the tag as he had his back turned when he rolled through heads back towards The Miz. JTG grabs The Miz who is still caught in the middle rope and hits a neckbreaker bringing The Miz crashing into the mat. JTG goes to jump on The Miz for the pinfall but instead he is hit on the back of the head with a Springboard Leg Drop from Morrison. Morrison pushes Miz out of the ring as he hooks the leg of JTG once more.

One…

…Two

T…

A little delayed kick out this time from JTG as it’s clear that the beating he has taken so far in this match is starting to cause a toll on him. The Shaman of Sexy gathers himself as he gets back onto his feet and picks JTG up. Morrison goes to Irish whip JTG off into the ropes but somehow JTG ends up reversing. JTG instead sends Morrison into the ropes! Morrison jumps onto the middle rope and tries to turn around and jump at JTG with a Flying Chuck but instead JTG hits Morrison with a picturesque dropkick to the chest knocking the wind out of one half of the tag team champions.

The fans start to get behind JTG as they realize that a much needed tag to bring in Shad Gaspard could change the momentum of the match for Cryme Tyme. Shad is back on the ring apron now as he holds onto the corner rope but he begins to bang his hands on the turnbuckle begging JTG to come and make the tag. JTG slowly crawls towards the corner as he looks to be within inches of being able to reach out and tag in Shad but instead we see The Miz illegally enter the ring and hit JTG with a running kick to the back of the head. JTG’s head collapses with the mat as Shad enters the ring charging at The Miz.

The Miz scurries away rolling out from underneath the bottom rope as he still clearly wants nothing to do with the big man of Cryme Tyme. Shad pleads with the referee that he’s had enough of the interference and dirty tactics of the champions and the referee tells him he needs to get back to his corner. This of course allows Morrison time to recover as he’s heading to the top rope. Morrison looks back at JTG who has rolled over now onto his back but looks to be down for the count right now. Morrison struggles to pull himself onto the top rope but once he does he jumps off looking for Starship Pain but JTG ROLLS AWAY!

Morrison ends up colliding hard onto the mat as JTG was able to get away just in the nick of time! Although still groggy from the kick to the head - JTG pulls himself towards Shad in the corner as Shad is reaching out desperate to get the big tag. JTG inches closer and closer as he finally reaches out and tags in the big man as Shad is finally back in the match! Shad immediately goes after The Miz knocking him off the ring apron with a big shoulder block causing The Miz to jump backwards and hit the ring barricade chest first!

Shad turns his attention now towards the legal man in Morrison as he bends down and picks Morrison up before throwing him onto his shoulders. Shad lifts Morrison up and proceeds to hit a Pumphandle Slam! Shad stays down on the mat as he hooks Morrison’s leg for the hopeful victory.

One…

…Two

Th…

Surprisingly late kick out from Morrison but the Shaman of Sexy keeps this match going. Shad looks over at JTG who is back on the ring apron albeit not back onto his feet yet as the early portions of this contest seems to have certainly fatigued him. Shad grabs Morrison now and lifts him up into the air, throwing him face first onto the turnbuckles with Snake Eyes! Morrison stumbles out of the corner and as Shad comes back he turns Morrison inside out with a Big Boot! This may be it! Shad hooks Morrison’s leg once more as JTG counts along with the referee!

One…

…Two

Thr..

STILL IN IT! Morrison gets his shoulder up meaning this match will continue on! Shad looks down at Morrison and decides that he’s going to try and lift him up again for a Military Press Slam but as he goes to lift him up Morrison knees Shad in the head. This of course causes Shad to lose his grip on Morrison as Morrison lands back on his feet. Morrison follows this up with a European Uppercut and while the move does startle Shad - it doesn’t knock the big man down. Morrison grabs Shad and tries to throw his head underneath his arm possibly looking for Moonlight Drive but Shad shoves Morrison away! Morrison charges back at Shad and gets tangled up in a Sidewalk Slam from Shad!

Sensing that they may be able to finish off Morrison here - Shad calls for his partner JTG to come into the ring for their finisher - the Recoil! JTG watches as Shad throws Morrison onto his shoulders and JTG charges across the ring but as he reaches the ropes we see The Miz club JTG from behind with a hard left! JTG falls down onto the mat and gets pulled to the outside by The Miz who hits a Reality Check onto the outside on JTG! JTG is out of it for a while now presumably.

Meanwhile while this was going on Shad still had Morrison on his shoulders but with the distraction Morrison was able to slide off Shad’s shoulders and escape from the clutches of Cryme Tyme’s big man! As Shad turns around he’s hit with a Spinning Wheel Kick knocking him off of his feet which is usually not an easy task. Morrison watches as Shad gets back up and this time he hits him with a Dropsault and he stays on top of Shad hooking the leg.

One…

…Two

Thre…

Shad gets his shoulder up just barely! Morrison signals for The Miz to get something and interestingly enough The Miz grabs JTG’s chain right off of his neck taking a play out of Cryme Tyme’s playbook! Miz puts the chain on walking around taunting Cryme Tyme before jumping onto the ring apron! Miz tries to be sly and slide the chain necklace to Morrison while distracting the referee but the referee sees it and removes the chain necklace from the match. The referee motions towards the timekeeper's table telling someone to come pick the necklace up which gives The Miz an opening to enter the ring and wrap a chain necklace he apparently pulled out of his tights and hit Shad square in the face with the chain necklace as he sat up!

The referee has his back turned the entire time while this is going on and right as he goes to turn around The Miz has already escaped and is making his way back to the corner. The referee seems skeptical but there is really not much he can do as his back was turned. Morrison heads towards his corner now and ascends the top ropes feeling confident this may be it! Morrison springs off the top rope and hits STARSHIP PAIN ONTO SHAD! Morrison clutches at his ribs for a second before crawling towards Shad and throwing his arm over the big man. The referee jumps down and begins the count

One…

…Two

Three!!!

Tony Chimel
Here are your winners and STILL THE WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS…JOHN MORRISON AND THE MIZ!

Match Result: John Morrison & The Miz def. Cryme Tyme at 9:10 to retain the WWE Tag Team Championships

The Miz slides into the ring hugging John Morrison as Morrison sits up still clutching his rubs but the A-Listers have done it! They’ve pulled a play out of Cryme Tyme’s playbook and are successful in retaining their WWE Tag Team Championships. The referee retrieves said championship belts and hands them off to Miz and Morrison who hug while seated on the ring mat before rolling to the outside of the ring. The Miz disrespectfully steps over JTG before taking his fedora off and taking a bow for the fans (a subtle shot as well to Cryme Tyme for having stolen his fedora several weeks ago on SmackDown) as the duo make their way back up the entrance ramp.

Michael Cole
The self proclaimed “Greatest Tag Team of the Twenty First Century” had to resort to cheating tactics tonight to defeat Cryme Tyme!

Tazz
Miz and Morrison did what they had to do! JTG stole The Miz’s fedora a few weeks back so Miz stole JTG’s chain necklace and proceeded to use it as a timely distraction to ensure the win.

Michael Cole
So they cheated is what you’re saying?

Tazz
They did what was necessary to win!

Michael Cole
If that’s what you want to call it. Let’s send you backstage now to Josh Mathews who is standing by with one of SmackDown’s newest superstars.

Backstage - Josh Mathews is standing by in the interview zone.

Josh Mathews
Ladies and gentlemen please welcome my guest at this time - he’s the newest superstar on Friday Night SmackDown - “The Gold Standard” Shelton Benjamin.

Shelton Benjamin enters the camera and thanks Josh for having him at this time.

Josh Mathews
Thank you for this time Shelton! We saw you make your return to SmackDown this past Friday after finding out the tough news that your Raw contract came to an end last week. You were victorious in your first match on SmackDown in nearly four years against Chuck Palumbo. But what everyone is wanting to know is why Drew McIntyre decided to single you out in a post match attack. Have you given any thought as to why Drew proceeded to ambush you post match?

Shelton Benjamin
I’ve given it a lot of thought Josh. The odd thing about it is I’ve never even met Drew McIntyre before so I have no idea what his motives are. One thing I do know though is what I am capable of and that I will not back down from any fight. It doesn’t matter where, when, or the type of match - “The Gold Standard” is always ready for a fight and if Drew is man enough he can meet me in the ring this Friday on SmackDown.

Josh Mathews
With you making your return to Smackdown - I wanted to take the time to list off some of your accomplishments over the course of your career. You’re a former United States, Intercontinental, World, and WWE Tag Team Champion. So one would assume your next goal is becoming World Heavyweight Champion? What do you have to say would be a timeline for reaching that goal?

Shelton Benjamin
I’m ready to take that next step now! I’ve been training and working hard every day since having my contract end on Raw without it being renewed. I have a chip on my shoulder to prove to everyone in the WWE universe but mostly myself that I am “The Gold Standard” of the WWE.

Drew McIntyre walks into the interview zone eyeing Shelton Benjamin up and down seemingly not impressed with Benjamin’s words.

Drew McIntyre
My….you know how to talk a big game Shelton! But you sure don’t know how to back up that talk now do you?

Benjamin steps up face to face with Drew McIntyre as the two men lock eyes with one another as Mathews tries to ease the tension a little.

Drew McIntyre
It sure is funny that all of the attention goes to the “newcomer” on the scene yet the person who has been grinding hard EVERYDAY and not just because their contract expired continually gets overlooked. Those days are over though now because I’m not going to be passed by any longer because I’m taking matters into my OWN hands!

Shelton Benjamin moves in even closer to Drew’s face now as the two are nose to nose before Drew ends the tension with his closing remark.

Drew McIntyre
See you Friday.

McIntyre walks away as Benjamin looks on as “The Scottish Warrior” exits the interview zone leaving Benjamin and Mathews alone for a second. We head back into the arena back to Michael Cole and Tazz at ringside.

Michael Cole
What a match we have set for Friday night on SmackDown. Shelton Benjamin going one on one with Drew McIntyre!

Tazz
That one certainly seems personal Cole but speaking of personal - coming up next Charlie Haas goes one on one with Rey Mysterio! Following months of brutal attacks and a suspension for Haas - these two superstars finally go one on one.

Michael Cole
Spurred by a violent outburst and a severe change in attitude, Charlie Haas looks to continue to make his mark on SmackDown in trying to take down the WWE Universe’s favorite son Rey Mysterio.

***PAY THE PRICE***

The no nonsense Charlie Haas it out first as he is a man on a mission tonight to take down Rey Mysterio and defeat him for a second time. However, this time it’s much further than a friendly competition as we get a quick run down of the history of these two from Cole and Tazz. A in screen clip is shown of Haas attacking Mysterio with a steel chair on SmackDown before being suspended last month. Haas enters the ring staring down the ramp awaiting Mysterio to make his arrival as boos spread throughout the arena for him.

***BOOYAKA 619***

The loudest pop of the night so far goes to Rey Mysterio as he pops out from the stage and goes from side to side playing and posing for the fans. Mysterio makes it down the ramp before giving the mask he has over his actual mask to a young fan at ringside. Mysterio speaks some words of encouragement to the young fan before he slides into the ring and poses on the ropes. Mysterio seems to be in his normal jovial mood which may throw Haas off in return since he’s in a sour mood. Mysterio looks at the referee and tells him he’s ready to go and our third match is ready to get underway!

Match #3 | Singles Match
Rey Mysterio vs. Charlie Haas

Right as the referee calls for the bell Charlie Haas immediately makes a mad dash towards Mysterio! Haas pounces on Mysterio using his size advantage as he hits Mysterio with a jumping right hand punch before backing him into the corner turnbuckles. Haas bends down and hits a shoulder thrust to Mysterio’s chest and follows it up with another before pulling Mysterio back towards him and hitting an Overhead Belly to Belly Suplex! Haas jumps up once as he stomps on the mat stalking his opponent as he looks very eager to go ahead and finish this contest off early on.

Haas grabs Mysterio and goes to lift him up for a German Suplex but Mysterio breaks free of the hold by elbowing Haas in the back of his head. Haas loses his grip on Mysterio who charges off the opposing ropes and comes back hitting a dropkick to Haas’ knee causing him to drop onto one knee. Mysterio then takes a few steps back and dashes back at Haas jumping onto his one knee that’s still up and hits a Step up Enzuigiri! Mysterio immediately jumps on top of Haas hitting him with some hard right hands as the two roll around the ring with neither being able to gain an advantage.

Mysterio is able to get on top of Haas momentarily and hit him with another right but Haas breaks free by raking the eye of Mysterio. The referee warns Haas to not use any dirty tactics but Haas plays oblivious saying he has no idea what the ref is talking about. Haas pushes himself off of the mat and back onto his feet before bending down and picking Mysterio back up. He proceeds to Irish whip Mysterio chest first into the corner turnbuckle. Mysterio’s chest hits the turnbuckle hard as he collapses onto the mat due to the tumultuous impact.

Haas stands over Mysterio stalking him for a second before getting onto one knee and slapping Mysterio in the face! Mysterio jerks his head as Haas shouts at him that he’s going to break him for good! Haas stands over Mysterio before jumping up into the air and dropping a knee onto his head. He then pulls Mysterio’s head back as he steps over the arms of Mysterio locking in a Camel Clutch on Mysterio! Haas wrenches the neck backwards but Haas is unaware that Mysterio has his foot underneath the rope. The referee warns Haas to break the hold as he reaches a four count before Haas finally breaks free of the Camel Clutch.

Haas shouts at Mysterio that he got “lucky” that time as he picks the beloved luchador back up off of his feet and holds the smaller opponent up high in the air upside down. Haas brings Mysterio crashing back onto the mat with a Delayed Vertical Suplex. Haas throws his arm over Mysterio as he looks at the referee and tells him to count!

One…

…Tw

Kick out at two from Mysterio keeping this match rolling. Haas grabs Mysterio by his mask pulling him up onto his feet before telling Rey that he can “quit while he’s ahead” but Rey shouts at him no. Haas shakes his head in disappointment at Rey before kicking Mysterio in the chest causing Rey to double over. Haas throws Mysterio’s head underneath his arm as he lifts Mysterio up but Mysterio slides off and grabs Haas while facing opposite from him and hits a Reverse Neckbreaker! Both men are down momentarily as the referee begins to count to ten.

One…

…Two

Three…

…Four

Five…

Mysterio has pulled himself over towards the bottom rope with the five count and as he pulls himself up onto his feet he spots Haas getting back onto one knee. Haas pulls himself back up but he’s knocked right back down onto his back with a Lou Thesz Press from Mysterio! Mysterio has had enough as he wails into Haas with several right hands! Haas pushes Mysterio off of him finally but he’s driven head first into the mat with a Tilt-a-Whirl Headscissors from Mysterio who has turned the tide of the match into his favor.

Mysterio heads to the outside apron as he stands over the ropes momentarily as he awaits Haas to get back onto his feet. With the crowd in Vegas backing him up Mysterio leaps over the top rope with a Springboard Leg Drop! Mysterio hurriedly hooks the leg of Haas looking to get a big victory tonight at No Way Out!

One…

…Two

Haas gets his shoulder up! Mysterio looks to keep the match going at his pace as he pulls himself up and bends down to grab Haas. Mysterio gets a woozy Haas back onto his feet but Mysterio is swiped off his feet as Haas swings his arms out chopping the legs of Mysterio out from underneath him as Mysterio hits the mat back first! Haas spins himself around on the mat on Mysterio as he grabs the head of Mysterio pulling it in and locking in a headlock while lying on the mat just like his mentor Kurt Angle is known for.

Haas pulls at the head of Mysterio before spinning his own body around again and sitting up while keeping the headlock locked in tonight on the fan favorite. Haas continues wearing at the head of Mysterio as he pulls himself back onto his feet and drops Mysterio right back onto the ground with a neckbreaker! Haas then proceeds to step on the body of Mysterio showing a lack of respect for his opponent as he looks around the arena as boos begin to pour in for Haas. Haas rubs his hands together as if to signal it’s time to put Mysterio away.

Haas stalks Mysterio as he jumps up and down eagerly anticipating Mysterio to get back onto his feet. Haas watches as his opponent pulls himself up once again as he has done throughout the duration of the match refusing to give up. Haas wraps his arms around the body of Mysterio, lifting him up and bringing him crashing backwards with a German Suplex! Haas doesn’t break free of the hold though as he rolls through and pulls Mysterio up for a second time before hitting another picturesque German Suplex! But he’s not done just yet! Haas rolls through a third time as he pulls Mysterio up once more before hitting a final German Suplex into a bridge! The referee drops down to the mat to make the count as Haas shouts at him to count!

One…

…Two

Th…

A little bit of a late kick out from Rey Mysterio but still managed to keep himself in this match. Haas is irate as he was almost certain that would be enough to put Mysterio away. Haas grabs Mysterio up as if he was a rag doll and goes to lift him up but Mysterio does a flip and lands on his feet! Mysterio charges towards the ropes underneath the arm of Haas avoiding a wild clothesline before jumping onto the middle rope and leaping back at Haas with a Springboard Moonsault!

Mysterio pounces back onto his feet as he sees Haas come charging at him but Mysterio catches Haas with an Arm Drag! Haas is thrown onto his side and when Haas comes back Mysterio catches him with another Arm Drag! Haas rolls to the outside of the ring trying to regain his composure as his plan is going awry right now. Haas slaps the mat in anger as he turns his back to the ring and kicks the barricade! But what a mistake Haas just made because Mysterio sees Haas with his back turned and he capitalizes on the mistake! Mysterio comes charging off the ropes diving through the middle rope with a Suicide Dive driving Haas into the ring barricade!

Mysterio gets back onto his feet pumping his fist as a “619” chant breaks out around the arena! Mysterio has the fans riled up as it appears he has taken back control of the match. For good measure Mysterio hits Haas with some right hands clearly frustrated at the heinous attacks he’s suffered over the last few months before he throws Haas back into the ring underneath the middle rope. Mysterio then heads onto the ring apron himself as he stands over the ropes looking to try and hit another high impact move!

Mysterio clutches the ropes as Haas turns around groggy looking confused as to where he is! Haas is back on his feet and as he turns around Mysterio leaps at him for a Seated Senton but Haas catches Mysterio and plants him with a Sitout Powerbomb! Mysterio’s head collides off the mat from the impact as Haas rolls through and falls backwards! Haas is down for a few seconds momentarily before the realization that he needs to try and cover Mysterio. Haas drags his body towards Mysterio, throwing an arm over Mysterio! The fans are greatly concerned this may be it for Mysterio as the arm is now draped over Mysterio!

One…

…Two

Thr..

REY MYSTERIO GETS THE SHOULDER UP! Haas’ eyes light up as he is absolutely taken aback at the fact Mysterio was able to get a shoulder up. The referee looks at Rey a little concerned that he may have suffered a concussion from the impact of his head hitting the mat but Rey assures him he is fine to continue. Haas meanwhile realizes he may need to try and finish Mysterio off for good here as Rey continues to fight back and do everything he can to keep himself alive in this grudge match.

Haas pulls himself up once more as he grabs the ankle of Rey Mysterio and locks in the Ankle Lock! Haas is paying homage again to his former mentor Kurt Angle as Haas wrenches away at the ankle of Mysterio! Keeping Mysterio grounded appears to be Haas’ goal as he twists and turns the ankle of Mysterio! Mysterio is wincing in pain as he lets out a few screams selling the brutal move! The fans are trying to rally behind Mysterio to encourage him to try and stay alive in the match but it doesn’t appear as if Haas is going to be breaking free of the Ankle Lock anytime soon.

It looks as if Mysterio has an opportunity to pull himself towards the bottom rope but Haas reels him back in dragging him towards the center of the ring! The submission specialist Haas looks as if he may be forcing Mysterio to tap out here soon but Mysterio stuns the fans as he pulls Haas forward rolling through and causing Haas to break free of the hold! The momentum of Haas brings him crashing into the middle rope almost as if in perfect position for the 619! But surely there’s no way Mysterio is going to be able to go for the 619 on an ankle that was just tortured for nearly thirty seconds in an Ankle Lock!

Haas is arched over the middle rope for a few seconds but it is not for too long as he pulls himself back up and heads back towards his grounded opponent. Haas grabs Rey by the mask pulling his head up asking him why he won’t just stay down. Haas tells Mysterio that it doesn’t have to be this way! He can put Rey out of his misery if he’d just let him! Haas throws Rey’s head back onto the mat as he stands over Rey for a second as boos continue to pour in as Haas shakes his wrists and looks down at Mysterio.

Haas goes to grab the feet of Mysterio looking to bend him backwards into the Haas of Pain but Rey kicks him away! Haas stumbles backwards due to the surprise of the kicks but he gathers himself and makes his way back towards Mysterio but gets sent right back with another swift kick from Mysterio. An irate Haas charges at Mysterio this time but Mysterio trips him up with a drop toe hold sending Haas face first into the mat. Mysterio pushes through the pain pulling himself up but it’s clear his ankle is still bothering him as he hobbles around before running at Haas! Mysterio jumps onto the shoulders of Haas and flips him over with a Hurricanrana!

Haas gets sent flying into the corner as Rey looks at his rival and decides to head to the opposing corner turnbuckle. Mysterio takes off towards the corner still with a limp and he jumps at Haas but Haas pulls himself forward and propels a leaping Mysterio over his head sending Mysterio into the corner! Mysterio lands on the top rope instead of crashing and he tries to catch himself but his ankle buckles and he starts to lose his footing. Haas turns around as he sees Rey has regained his footing and Rey leaps towards Haas with a Crossbody but Haas catches Mysterio off the top rope with an Exploder Suplex! The fans in Las Vegas are stunned as that may finally be it for Mysterio! Haas throws his arm over Mysterio as the referee drops onto the mat.

One…

…Two

Thre…

SOMEHOW MYSTERIO KICKS OUT! Haas and Mysterio are not moving for a few seconds selling the impact of the Exploder Suplex. Haas sits his head up looking very confused at the referee on how that was not a three count! The referee assures Haas that it was only two but that it was VERY close. Haas is at a loss for words right now as he has reached his wits end on what he’s going to have to do to win this match. Haas pulls himself back up and goes to lift Mysterio up for a German Suplex but Mysterio elbows Haas in the head! Haas tries to fight back by keeping the grip of Mysterio but Mysterio elbows Haas once more before breaking free of Haas’ German Suplex attempt. Mysterio kicks Haas in the sternum before throwing Haas’ head underneath him! Mysterio leaps up and hits a Sunset Flip! Has Mysterio made a comeback big enough for a win?

One…

…Two

Thr…

Haas kicks out of the Sunset Flip pin fall! Haas pulls himself back up right as Mysterio does and he wildly swings at Mysterio but Mysterio ducks this attempt and proceeds to dropkick Haas on his right knee. Haas drops onto one knee and Mysterio capitalizes by running at Haas and hitting another head scissors takedown and this time it propels Haas right onto the middle rope! Mysterio clutches at his ankle as it’s still bothering him but he knows he can finish the match off here if he powers through. Mysterio dashes across the ring and lets up a little as he reaches back at Haas and swings around through the ropes - 619! Haas is thrown backwards as Mysterio stands on the outside of the ring and jumps onto the top rope and right as Haas turns back around he’s hit with WEST COAST POP! Mysterio keeps the leg of Haas hooked as the referee counts!

One…

…Two

Three…

Tony Chimel
Here is your winner…REY MYSTERIO!!!

Match Result: Rey Mysterio def. Charlie Haas at 12:42

Mysterio escapes through the bottom rope as Haas sits up and begins to throw a tantrum slamming his hands into the mat. Haas’s childish mannerisms are called out by Cole and Tazz who say he simply looks like a kid who just had candy taken away from him. Haas watches as Mysterio stands at the top of the ramp posing to the fans once more while he has to look on in defeat. Haas then pulls himself back up and stands over the apron before ripping the microphone out of Tony Chimel’s hands as he was trying to exit the ring. Haas tells Chimel to get lost before he exits the ring himself.

Michael Cole
A valiant and encouraging performance from Rey Mysterio tonight to fend off his injuries and overcome the man who has tormented him for months now.

Tazz
Charlie Haas put up one hell of a fight tonight but the veteran Rey Mysterio has been in these moments before and knows what it takes to power through and overcome obstacles. It’s been his MO his entire career so he’s always a tough one to put away

Michael Cole
With WrestleMania a little over a month away one must wonder now where the road to WrestleMania will now lead for both of these men.

Tazz
Cole…look out!

Tazz pulls Michael Cole away as Charlie Haas has a microphone and is LIVID! The fans mock Haas as he taps on the microphone to make sure it is on. Haas climbs on top of the SmackDown commentary table as he begins to shout into the microphone.

Charlie Haas
I’VE HAD ENOUGH!

The fans mockingly chant “WHAT” at Haas which just enrages him even more.

Charlie Haas
For over five years I’ve shown up EVERY DAMN DAY to the arena! I’ve never missed a day! I’ve busted my ass for this company and what do I get in return? I get disrespected EVERY DAY! I continuously am forgotten about until someone who is reliable is needed to keep the wheels on the wagon turning.

More “WHAT” chants are directed towards Haas

Charlie Haas
You idiots are proving my point! Everyone wants to mock me while I speak the TRUTH! The unfiltered truth is that I’ve been disrespected since the very first day I stepped foot into this company. I was overlooked in Team Angle and the World’s Greatest Tag Team, I was made into a mockery when I teamed with Rico, and then I was judged as a leech for latching on as Ric Flair’s tag team partner trying to “ride his coattails” in his final days of his career!

“WHAT” chants continue to pour down on Haas who is doing his best to block them out but in this moment of time he’s clearly letting said chants get to him.

Charlie Haas
I even won the Intercontinental Championship after getting drafted to SmackDown earlier this year and I STILL DON’T GET THE RESPECT I DESERVE!

The fans boo Haas as he shifts his attention towards the other side of the arena. A few camera shots show some indifferent fans with a few others giving him the thumbs down and mocking him.

Charlie Haas
What has happened is the powers in the back have conspired against me to keep me down! They’ve worked hard to make sure that Charlie Haas is an afterthought. That Charlie Haas doesn’t get the same opportunities to progress along in his career that others such as the REY MYSTERIO’S, JEFF HARDY’s OR SHELTON BENJAMIN’s of the world gets!

A pop at the mention of Haas’ former tag partner sets him off even more.

Charlie Haas
Jonathan Coachman is a disgrace and has conspired along with the Board of Directors to retaliate against me for my complaint against Mr. Coachman. I filed a complaint stating that Coachman is unfit for his position and that he had no authoritative power to suspend me without pay and guess what I won! But did anything change? NO! The Board of Directors haven’t contacted me since! I haven’t received my back pay and I’ve been retaliated against by Mr. Coachman since returning from my unjust suspension.

The fans are continuing to boo Haas as he continues to inundate them with his angered tone.

Charlie Haas
Jonathan Coachman wants to play it this way. Well newsflash…two can play this game! That’s why I’m holding the rest of this show hostage until Jonathan Coachman RESIGNS due to his incompetent leadership that has seen an uptick in dangerous work conditions, favorable treatment towards select superstars and poor management decisions that have greatly affected the future of SmackDown!

Haas jumps off the table and walks over and grabs a steel chair and sits in the ring. Haas sits there for about thirty minutes until Mr. Coachman comes out onto the stage along with security. Four security officers make their way towards the ring as Haas stands up and begins to shout at Coachman and the security officers.

Charlie Haas
If they touch me I will sue!

Coachman urges the officers to not touch Haas but instead ask him to leave the ring. Haas gets into a shouting match with Coachman at this time. Coachman is keeping his composure as he receives a verbal berating from his superstar as security stands by.

Charlie Haas
You will regret this Coachman!

Coach doesn’t seem fazed by Haas’ words as security surrounds Haas and escorts him out of the ring. Haas steps through the ring ropes and one security officer tries to grab him but Haas rustles himself away from the security officer and tells the officer not to touch him. Haas makes his way up the ramp before turning around and looking at Coachman who is outside the ring now watching on as Haas is escorted out of the arena and presumably away from the arena for the remainder of the night.

Michael Cole
I don’t even know what to say anymore Tazz. I’m afraid that Charlie Haas has truly gone off the deep end!

Tazz
I think you may be right Cole. It appears he’s made up in his mind that Coach has conspired against him and him only to ruin his career.

Michael Cole
I have no idea what the next step in this saga between Charlie Haas and our General Manager Jonathan Coachman will be but man it has to be tough for Coach knowing that one of your superstars is accusing you of conspiring against him.

Tazz
Oh I’m sure it absolutely is. No General Manager is perfect but Coach has done a great job while working with the assets he has and has worked to be a fair leader for SmackDown so I’m not sure where Haas gets off on saying he’s being singled out.

The screen goes black before we see a hustling and bustling gym. The camera then cuts to the gym entrance as the sliding doors open and in walks SIMON DEAN!

Simon Dean
My name is Simon Dean and I’m the founder of the Simon System! A proven and patented system that helps shed weight and is designed to save and transform lives. Take a look at this person here.

Dean points to a slightly obese male who is walking on the treadmill.

Simon Dean
This pathetic excuse of a man thinks that walking on a treadmill for ten minutes will make up for the super sized meal from McDonalds he devoured just moments before coming into the gym. Well Simon says that this is no way to lie to yourself and feign happiness. Now look at this woman…

A woman using an elliptical machine who is in perfect appearing health looks at Dean as he stops right beside her.

Simon Dean
This woman doesn’t just need an elliptical machine…she needs an entire life transformation! What she needs is the Simon System nutrition shake that will provide her all the protein and nutrients she needs instead of scarfing down fast food and sitting in drive thrus all day!

Dean walks towards a table that has conveniently been set aside in a portion of the gym with his Simon System products on full display.

Simon Dean
Well lucky for the WWE universe and all of the superstars backstage - Simon Dean is making his return to the WWE THIS FRIDAY on SmackDown! I’ll be working hard to cleanse the plague of obesity that is haunting the superstars and fans of the WWE!

Dean grabs a protein bar and opens it up before taking a bite.

Simon Dean
Simon says I’ll see you this Friday!

The screen prepares to go black as Dean is suddenly rushed by a crowd of people with money in their hands waving it around looking to buy the patented Simon System products. Simon is beaming from ear to ear as he tells the people the benefits of his system as the camera finally cuts to black.

Michael Cole
Not that dweeb again!

Tazz
I for one am excited to see that Simon Dean is making his return to the WWE! Simon is a professional’s professional and is a man that truly cares about all of the people in the WWE!

Michael Cole
It looks to me like he’s more concerned with pushing his terrible Simon System products and berating people than he is about actually helping people reach their goals.

Tazz
That’s a stretch to me Cole and I usually am one to agree with you. But regardless it’s time to move on because we have another championship match coming up next!

Michael Cole
Our second championship match of the evening will see the rookie Evan Bourne look to continue his red hot momentum as he faces off against a former two time and the longest reigning Cruiserweight Champion in WWE history at 436 days - Jamie Noble!

Tazz
Bourne overcame the odds by defeating Gregory Helms TWICE in January in his first month in the WWE but Noble is no slouch and Bourne is going to have an uphill battle when he faces off against Noble with his championship on the line

***TRAILER PARK***

Out first is the challenger and notably the longest Cruiserweight Champion of all time - Jamie Noble! Noble ignores the smattering of boos from around the arena as he has become accustomed to. Noble rolls into the ring finding himself waiting against the corner turnbuckles as he pops his knuckles anxious to get this match underway .

Tony Chimel
The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship! Introducing first the challenger hailing from Hanover, West Virginia weighing in at two hundred and two pounds - Jamie Noble!!!

***BORN TO WIN***

And out next is the Cruiserweight Champion and the fan favorite - Evan “Air” Bourne! Bourne throws up the peace sign as he pats his championship belt and makes a beeline for the ring sliding in underneath the bottom rope! Bourne poses on the middle rope in the center of the ring throwing up the peace sign once more as the fans in Las Vegas are excited to get their first look at Bourne up close! Bourne hands the championship belt over as the referee holds it high in the air to signify the gold is on the line and we are almost ready for this contest.

Tony Chimel
And his opponent hailing from Saint Louis, Missouri weighing in at one hundred and eighty three pounds, he is the WWE Cruiserweight Champion…Evan Bourne!!!

Match #4 | WWE Cruiserweight Championship
Evan Bourne © vs. Jamie Noble

The referee calls for the bell and our second championship match of the night is officially underway. Noble circles the ring a few times trying to reach out to get Bourne to go toe to toe with him in grappling but Bourne doesn’t oblige. Bourne circles himself a few times before they finally meet in the middle and lock up. A tussle engages with neither man being able to use their strength to push the other back for a few seconds before Noble finally breaks free thanks in large part to a knee to the sternum of Bourne. Noble backs Bourne into the corner throwing an elbow at him but Bourne ducks and slides underneath Noble and out of the corner.

Bourne dashes into the corner towards Noble but Noble sidesteps him! Bourne stops himself before his momentum can carry him into the turnbuckles by leaping onto the middle turnbuckle! Bourne tries for a Moonsault onto Noble but Noble catches him and slams him into the mat with a reverse suplex! Noble throws Bourne over and hooks the leg early on in the contest.

One…

…Two

A not surprising quick kick out from the champion as it’s going to take a lot more than that to keep him down tonight! Noble gets back up onto his feet as he sees Bourne start to sit up and he springs off the ropes running past Bourne onto the set of ropes directly behind the champion and he comes charging back with a nasty looking dropkick to the back of Bourne’s head! Noble throws Bourne over once more thinking that may be it.

One…

…Tw

Once again the champion is able to kick out. Noble doesn’t show any frustration though as the former multi time champion knows it’s going to be an absolute grind to try and win the championship from the young up and comer in Bourne. Noble gets Bourne back onto his feet and goes to Irish whip him into the ropes but Bourne reverses and instead it’s Noble sent into the ropes. The veteran Noble stops in his tracks trying to goad Bourne into making a mistake and he does so by getting Bourne to run at him first. Noble gets his knee up driving it into the chest of Bourne before throwing Bourne under his arm and hitting a Single Arm DDT! Noble jumps on top of Bourne hooking the leg once more.

One…

...Two

Noble pulls Bourne’s head off the mat before spinning himself around the champion and repeatedly driving his knee into the back of Bourne. Noble does this for a total of three times before he does a sit out clothesline forcing the body of Bourne to bend backwards. Noble grabs Bourne and pulls him back onto his feet once more before pushing Bourne into the corner turnbuckles. Noble charges at Bourne looking for a corner clothesline but Bourne moves out of the way and slides out underneath the swinging arm of Noble! Noble stops himself in his tracks instead of colliding with the turnbuckles but when Noble turns around he’s hit with an Enzuigiri from Bourne causing him to drop onto the mat face first.

Bourne collapses onto the mat clutching at his neck as he starts to pull himself towards the ring ropes needing to get himself back onto his feet. The fans start to clap in rhythm to work the champion up to encourage him to try and get back up! The fans cheering him on drives Bourne as he pulls himself up with the aid of the middle rope and makes his way back to the challenger Noble. Bourne goes to grab Noble and pick him up but Noble pulls Bourne in with a cradle and he pulls the tights!

One…

…Two

Th…

Bourne is able to kick out and he’s not too happy about Noble trying to cheat to win there! Noble plays oblivious to Bourne’s complaint and the commentary team notes that Bourne needs to be careful trying to reason with a former multi time champion such as Noble who is well versed in what it takes to win gold. Both men get back onto their feet and start trading blows with one another. Noble and Bourne are going back and forth with it trying to gain an advantage and it’s finally Noble who shows his veteran savviness with a well timed poke to the eyes when he cornered Bourne and was able to get off the poke without the referee seeing it.

Bourne grabs at his eye but doesn’t have much time to react because Noble lifts Bourne up, placing him onto the top turnbuckle in a seated manner. Bourne is seated facing Noble who hits him with a right hand for good measure before climbing up to the ropes and eventually reaching the top rope. Noble pulls Bourne up to his feet looking for a high impact move to try and put the champion away for good. Noble pulls Bourne up close to his body as it’s evident he’s looking for a Belly to Belly Suplex but Bourne begins to fight off Noble! Bourne shoves Noble off of him causing Noble to lose his balance and fall off the top ropes but he times it perfectly and lands on his feet! Noble looks up though and he’s greeted by Bourne with a Diving Double Knee Drop to his shoulders! Bourne scrambles, pulling the legs of Noble back towards him as he pins Noble in what may be the deciding fall!

One…

…Two

T…

Noble keeps this match up going as he gets his shoulders up much to the chagrin of the champion. Bourne doesn’t let it affect the advantage he has earned though as he gets himself back up and pulls a wobbly Jamie Noble back onto his feet as well. Bourne leaps into the air looking for a jumping kick to Noble’s face but Noble somehow ducks avoiding Bourne! The wherewithal of Noble to know where he is proved to be beneficial albeit only for about a second because Bourne who is facing away from Noble leaps and spins around with a Spinning Savate Kick knocking Noble off of his feet once again! Bourne jumps on top of Noble and hooks the leg once more!

One…

…Two

Thr…

Much closer pin fall attempt for Bourne that time but Noble still is able to kick out! Bourne exhales deeply as he has pulled out a good amount of tricks out of his bag early on in the match but he’s been unable to get a decisive pinfall so far. The commentary duo of Cole and Tazz remind the fans that Bourne just needs to settle down and not become overwhelmed early on in this match. Bourne does just that as he takes a deep breath before pulling Noble up once more and sending him into the opposing corner’s turnbuckle! Bourne throws up a peace sign before charging at Noble looking for a Corner Splash but Bourne lifts Noble up, tossing him out of the ring! Noble is oblivious though that Bourne landed on the apron and as he turns around he’s hit with a Slingshot Somersault Hurricanrana!

Evan Bourne has won the fans in Las Vegas and the millions watching around the world over for sure with his impressive moves and will to compete. Bourne is on one knee contemplating what his next move is going to be as he goes to grab Noble but the challenger rolls to the outside of the ring! Noble holds himself up with the aid of the apron as he’s looking for a way to try and slow Bourne’s momentum. But Bourne doesn’t seem to be wanting to give Noble a break because he climbs to the top rope! Bourne stands up tall looking down at Noble on the outside who appears to be oblivious to Bourne’s whereabouts! Bourne leaps off at Noble with a Diving Somersault Senton landing right on Noble causing the challenger to collapse onto the cold hard floor!

Both men are down as “This is Awesome” chants begin to spread around the Thomas and Mack Center as both of these men are giving it their absolute all for the Cruiserweight Championship here tonight! The referee looks at Bourne and Noble who are both down and begins a ten fall count since neither man is on their feet.

One…

…Two

Three…

Bourne is back onto his feet now as he bends down to try and grab Noble but he’s having a little tough luck in trying to get Noble back up.

…Four

Five…

…Six

Bourne finally manages to get Noble back up as he pushes him towards the ring and rolls him finally underneath the bottom rope before climbing onto the apron himself! Bourne grabs Noble, pulling him into the corner where he places Bourne’s head against the bottom turnbuckle. Bourne then heads to the opposing corner before getting a running start and charging towards Noble! Bourne hits a perfect Corner Dropkick causing Noble’s head to whiplash against the bottom turnbuckle! Bourne flips Noble over before looking to the skies! Bourne ascends the ropes as the fans cheer him on thinking that this may be it! Bourne surveys the scene as he looks down at Noble who is motionless before jumping into the air!

Bourne comes down looking to land the Shooting Star Press but NOBLE GETS HIS KNEES UP! Bourne’s ribs collide with the knees of Noble as he rolls around the ring in agony! Bourne is screeching in pain as Noble finds himself trying to pull himself towards the champion. Bourne is still rolling around as Noble gets back onto his feet finally gets Bourne to stop rolling around after he hits a Leg Drop onto the Cruiserweight Champion. Noble stands over Bourne motioning that the championship belt is coming home soon with him! Noble bends down pulling Bourne back up before throwing his arm over and lifting Bourne up into the air with a picture perfect Northern Lights Suplex! The bridge is kept by Noble as the referee drops and begins counting.

One…

…Two

Thre…

BOURNE POPS OUT OF THE PIN FALL ATTEMPT SOMEHOW! The commentary duo is quite uncertain on how Bourne managed to break free and analyze how much it must have hurt his ribs even more to pop up to break free of the hold! Bourne is seen still clutching his ribs as Noble sits up and gets ready to go back to work on his opponent. Noble looks down at Bourne before charging off the ropes and hitting a Running Senton! Bourne lets out another shriek as Noble lands right on the ribs of the champion, invoking even more pain on his opponent in what has certainly become a targeted area for the challenger to attack!

Noble signals to the fans he’s putting Bourne away right here and right now as he’s had enough! The challenger points down at Bourne before pulling him back up and throwing Bourne’s head between his legs! Noble goes to lift Bourne up into the air and he brings him crashing back first into the mat with the Tiger Driver! This is going to be it! Noble excitedly pushes down on Bourne staying in position from the Tiger Driver as he KNOWS this is going to be it and he will be a three time Cruiserweight Champion! The confident Noble counts along with the referee!

One…

…Two

Thre…

OH MY! Bourne not only kicks out but he returns the favor with a swift kick to the face of Jamie Noble in the process! Noble is BEYOND LIVID as he has no idea how Bourne kicked out from the Tiger Driver but also the fact that he took a kick to the face from the kick out! Noble is not satisfied with the count from the referee and he looks as if he is going to put Bourne away for good here! Noble grabs Bourne peeling him off the mat looking to lift him up for a second Tiger Driver but before Noble can even get Bourne underneath his legs Bourne slides underneath the legs of Noble. Bourne stumbles but as he gets back onto his feet he charges off the ropes and comes running right back at Noble who catches Bourne with a Urunage Backbreaker! Bourne looks to be down for the count as Noble pins him once again!

One…

…Two

Thre…

HOW IN THE WORLD DOES NOBLE GET A SHOULDER UP! Jamie Noble is absolutely beside himself right now as he doesn’t see how the rookie continues to find a way to kick out! Noble pulls some of the tape he has wrapped around his hand in anger before throwing it at Bourne! The tape of course doesn’t do anything to Bourne but rather just shows the blatant disrespect from Noble towards his opponent. Noble grabs the legs of Bourne and locks in the TRAILER HITCH! Noble drops onto the mat wrenching away at the legs and back of Bourne as Bourne has nowhere to go! Bourne is in the center of the ring and is going to have to find a way to break free of the hold or grab the ropes in order to not lose his championship gold!

Bourne drops down onto the mat after having had himself propped up with his hands but the pain from the submission hold seems to have subdued him momentarily. Bourne musters up the strength to push back as he pulls himself close towards the bottom rope! Noble pulls back on Bourne though, pulling him closer to the center of the ring! Bourne is going to have to figure out something soon and it appears he finally does when he musters enough strength to pull himself forward and grab the bottom rope after a lengthy struggle! The referee tells Noble he has to break the submission hold and Noble finally does so at four when the referee has to get Noble off of Bourne!

The referee tells Noble next time that he doesn’t break the count he will be disqualified to which Noble tells him he did break the count! Noble exchanges words with the referee for a few more seconds before turning back around to Bourne. Noble is clearly exasperated as he’s done everything he knows to put away the newcomer but he’s just not been successful yet. Noble grabs Bourne and throws him onto his shoulders once more looking for a Fireman’s Carry Double Knee Gutbuster but Bourne hits Noble with a knee to the head! Noble loses his grip on Bourne and he turns around right into a Jumping Roundhouse Kick from the champion!

Bourne slides backwards as he loses his balance momentarily which gives Noble a change to come charging at him! It turns out to be a mistake for Noble however because he catches a Jumping High Knee startling the challenger and causing him to flip backwards. Bourne stands over Noble once he regains his balance from the hard knee to Noble’s face and follows it up with a Standing Moonsault! Noble looks to be in trouble as the champion hooks Noble’s leg and the fans count along with the referee.

One…

…Two

Thre…

NOBLE KICKS OUT! Bourne knows he has to strike while the iron is hot and he does so by getting Noble back onto his feet but Noble shoves him away! The push from Noble sends Bourne backwards but as Noble charges at Bourne he eats a Double Foot Stomp right into his chest! An exhausted Bourne points to the corner as he drags Noble towards the corner and looks ready to try for his second attempt at putting this match away. With Noble not moving much due to the hard stomp he just took to the chest - Bourne ascends the top ropes albeit slowly. Still holding his ribs from his failed attempt earlier - Bourne looks down at Noble knowing that he must be successful in this attempt if he wants to retain his championship. Bourne leaps into the air and is successful as he collides with Noble on the mat with AIR BOURNE! Bourne rolls around in agony clutching his ribs even more from the impact! Bourne finally reaches over and throws his arm over Noble as the referee drops down and counts as the fans wonder if this will be it!

One…

…Two

Three…

Tony Chimel
Here is your winner and STILL THE WWE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION…EVAN BOURNE!!!

Match Result: Evan Bourne def. Jamie Noble at 13:03 to retain the WWE Cruiserweight Championship

Michael Cole
What an accomplishment for Evan Bourne in not only retaining his Cruiserweight Championship but doing so against the longest reigning champion in the history of the Cruiserweight Championship in Jamie Noble

Tazz
This was a career defining moment for Evan Bourne in regards to his championship reign! The amount of adversity Bourne displayed in fighting back and defeating a long time veteran in Noble is something that I will not forget anytime soon!

Michael Cole
Just in two months time we’ve seen Evan Bourne defeat two major stalwarts of the Cruiserweight division in Gregory Helms and now Jamie Noble and my question is who’s next?

Tazz
Well it appears that we won’t have to wait too long to find out because we are set to find out this Friday who Evan Bourne will be facing at WrestleMania when we have a Cruiserweight Open Challenge Match and the winner becomes the new number one contender

Michael Cole
Whomever is lucky enough to win the Cruiserweight Open Challenge is certainly going to have an uphill battle at WrestleMania. Bourne has proven time after time now he is not going to lie down and just be a pushover. He’s going to fight to the finish to do everything he can in his power to keep his championship gold around his waist!

Tazz
Make no mistake Evan Bourne BELONGS here in the WWE! He’s proven that already in less than two months and dare I say that 2008 will be the year of Evan Bourne?

Michael Cole
I don’t think it’s too early to say that at all! Let’s head backstage where we have Josh Mathews standing by with SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman.

The camera heads backstage as Josh Mathews knocks at the door of the SmackDown General Manager but he doesn’t get Coach. Instead he gets the SmackDown Intern - Ms. Terrell

Ms. Terrell
May I help you Josh?

Josh Mathews
Hi Ms. Terell. I’m trying to speak to Mr. Coachman on a number of issues - one being the status of Finlay and also trying to gather his thoughts on the actions of Charlie Haas earlier tonight.

Ms. Terell
I’m very sorry Josh but Mr. Coachman is very busy so I’d be more than happy to provide you any answers you are looking for.

Mathews seems a little hesitant in not speaking to the actual authority of the show but he obliges anyway as he is wanting to get answers for the fans.

Josh Mathews
Are you able to provide us an update on Finlay at this time?

Ms. Terell
I am not able to provide a definitive update but what we do know is that unfortunately Finlay is going to be out of action for quite a while. The latest update we received from the medical team was that they are awaiting x-rays to see the severity of the injury and that is all that they could disclose.

Josh Mathews
And can we get any thoughts that Mr. Coachman has regarding the situation with Charlie Haas earlier where he tried to hold the show hostage and threatened to sue if any security member touched him.

Ms. Terell
I am legally not allowed to comment on that situation at this time.

Josh Mathews
Will we have an update anytime soon pertaining to said issue?

Ms. Terrell
Once again Mr. Mathews I am unable to comment. Thank you for your time! Mr. Coachman and I have some business to pertain to in order to ensure that the remainder of No Way Out is a success.

Ms. Terrell shuts the door as Josh Mathews stands at the door looking disappointed that he didn’t receive his answers but perhaps he may receive some different answers because up walks DOLPH ZIGGLER.

Dolph Ziggler
What’s new! Jonathan Coachman never has time for anyone! But hey Josh if you’re needing to interview someone to fill some time since Coachman wouldn’t give you the time of day….I’m your guy!

Mathews looks reluctant but he doesn’t have much of an opportunity because Ziggler takes the microphone and tells Josh to stand by and watch how it’s done.

Dolph Ziggler
I’m going to keep this very short and simple so even you simpletons in Las Vegas can understand!

Cheap heat rains down on Ziggler as he looks into the camera looking ready to drive home his point.

Dolph Ziggler
We are just moments away from seeing I, Dolph Ziggler go one on one with “The Rated R Superstar” Edge once again and I hate to spoil the match for everyone…

Ziggler pauses as he laughs and looks at Josh Mathews.

Dolph Ziggler
Actually I don’t hate to spoil it!

Ziggler chuckles as he looks into the camera.

Dolph Ziggler
We all know what the result is going to be because we saw the same result just three weeks ago on Friday Night SmackDown when I pinned Edge in the middle of the ring..ONE (holds one finger up), TWO (holds two fingers up), THREE!!! (holds three fingers up)

Josh Mathews leans in to interject as he doesn't get to the microphone but he is heard clear as day.

Josh Mathews
But you won after Randy Orton interfered by attacking Edge with an RKO and Orton threw you on top of Zig…

Ziggler fakes out Mathews with a punch telling him that his opinion is not needed.

Dolph Ziggler
And you wonder why no one likes you! It’s because you’re out here spreading lies! Face it Josh! Facts are facts! What is reflected in the record books is what NO ONE can refute and that is on February 1, 2008 I pinned Edge right in the center of the ring. And tonight - February 17, 2008 it’s going to be the SAME EXACT RESULT and dare I say in an even quicker amount of time!

The fans pepper in some boos as Ziggler shouts at Mathews who tries to interject again before finally telling Mathews to leave. The interviewer obliges, leaving Ziggler to move in closer to the camera as his tone has changed.

Dolph Ziggler
In case everyone forgets I STEPPED UP TO EDGE FIRST! NOT RANDY ORTON! ME! IT WAS ME FIRST! I knew I had to make an immediate statement to get some respect around here and I couldn’t think of a better way to make a statement than to go after everyone’s “favorite superstar” - EDGE! There’s only ONE superstar who can put an end to Edge being constantly shoved down our throats and newsflash - it’s NOT RANDY ORTON! IT’S ME!

Loud pop at the mention of “The Rated R Superstar” Edge but some jeers from Ziggler for his snide remarks.

Dolph Ziggler
Edge may have thought that I was a joke and that he can just overlook me but he should look no further than what happened when he did that just two weeks ago! He was pinned in the center of the ring by yours truly! So in case anyone wants to continue doubting that I always back up my words, then you need to pay VERY close attention to my match when I pin Edge for a second time!

A seething Ziggler looks deep into the camera as spit is coming out of his mouth as the tension from the youngster is coming across rather strong.

Dolph Ziggler
Tonight is not about Randy Orton. Tonight is not about Edge. Tonight is about DOLPH ZIGGLER!

Ziggler drops the microphone as he is fired up as he heads into the arena as it appears that his match with the Rated R Superstar is NEXT!

***I AM PERFECTION***

The brash and arrogant youngster known as Dolph Ziggler is out next as he runs his hands through his wet air and throws his hands up mocking the fans. Ziggler marches down the ramp talking trash to many fans before he reaches ringside and sees a fan who has a Rated R Superstar sign at ringside. Ziggler struggles with the fan before reaching over the barricade and pulling the sign in towards him and ripping it up to shreds! Ziggler rolls underneath the bottom rope proud of himself for his actions as he bounces from side to side awaiting to see Edge for the second time in his young career in a singles match.

Tony Chimel
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first hailing from Hollywood, Florida weighing in at two hundred and seventeen pounds - he is “The Show Off” Dolph Ziggler!!!

***METALINGUS***

The roof is nearly blown off the Thomas & Mack Center as Edge enters to a thunderous ovation! Edge does his usual entrance running from side to side before his pyro is set off and he heads towards the ring. His eyes scanning the arena in case Randy Orton appears as has been the case for the last month or so. However, he is just as fixated on Dolph Ziggler before he slides under the bottom rope. Edge stands in the corner posing as Tony Chimel gives us his trademark Edge introduction!

Tony Chimel
And introducing his opponent from Toronto, Ontario, Canada weighing in at two hundred and forty pounds - he is the “RATED R SUUUUUUUUPERSTARRRRR”….EDGE!!!

Match #5 | Singles Match
Edge vs. Dolph Ziggler

Edge is in the process of taking off his coat and handing it over to Tony Chimel but as he does so he’s attacked from behind by Ziggler! Ziggler hits Edge with a Corner Splash as he starts to lay into Edge with several punches trying to take an early advantage on Edge! The referee tells Ziggler that the match has not even officially started and that he has to back up! Ziggler doesn’t want to oblige but he has no choice once the referee tells him if he continues to attack Edge he will be disqualified!

Ziggler heads back towards his corner and awaits the referee to check on Edge. Edge is a little thrown back from the beginning of the match but he tells the referee he is ready to start the match and that is exactly what the referee does as he calls for the bell! Ziggler charges at Edge once again immediately pouncing on the Rated R Superstar with a Jumping Clothesline! Edge is knocked off of his feet as Ziggler tries to sneak up behind him looking for a Zig Zag but Edge powers off Ziggler and stands his ground as Ziggler is unable to execute the move and instead lands hard on his back!

The rookie rolls around on the mat holding his bottom back! Ziggler gets back onto his feet with his back bothering him from the impact but he knows he has to put that to the side and focus on his opponent! Ziggler runs towards Edge looking for a clothesline but Edge ducks underneath the attempt and springs off the ropes! Edge dashes back at Ziggler and nearly rips Ziggler in half with a SPEAR! Edge wraps his leg around one of Ziggler’s legs and hooks the other as he stares into the crowd as the referee counts.

One…

…Two

Three…

Tony Chimel
Here is your winner ....”The Rated R SUUUUUUUUUUPERSTARRRRR!!!” EDGE!!!

Match Result: Edge def. Dolph Ziggler @ 0:58

Edge has defeated Dolph Ziggler in under a minute to which Cole states is good for Ziggler! Ziggler has done nothing but run his mouth about how he defeated Edge on SmackDown three weeks ago and how he was going to do it for a second time tonight but he didn’t even last a minute in the ring.

Michael Cole
Oh my! I don’t think anyone expected Edge to defeat Dolph Ziggler in under a minute but he did just that!

Tazz
I’m speechless myself! The undefeated streak of Dolph Ziggler has finally come to an end after nearly three months!

Michael Cole
While he may technically hold a win over Edge - his defeat tonight was well warranted after angering the Rated R Superstar for weeks on end.

Tazz
There are a lot of lessons to be learned early on in your career and tonight is one of those lessons for Dolph Ziggler. While he may be embarrassed in the short term, it’s important to note that this will not tarnish his career at all. He lost in an unfortunate matter but it’s a lesson that he will carry with him for the remainder of his career.

Michael Cole
Is that…OH MY…IT’S RANDY ORTON!

Edge has his hand raised by the referee but he’s ambushed by RANDY ORTON! After attacking Edge from behind he stomps away at the head of Edge circling around the Rated R Superstar taunting him as he has done in several of his attacks over the last several weeks. The referee has a tough task of needing to tend to Dolph Ziggler who has rolled to the outside of the ring but also try and break up this Orton and Edge situation. The referee tries to get in between Orton and tell him that he needs to leave but INSTEAD THE REFEREE EATS AN RKO FOR HIS TROUBLES!

Orton then proceeds to drop down onto the mat eyeing his prey as he watches Edge get back onto one knee. Edge pushes forward but HE RECEIVES AN RKO AS WELL WHEN HE IS FULLY BACK ON HIS FEET! Edge is knocked out cold but Orton is not done yet! OH NO! He’s looking to put Edge away just like he did Christian at the Royal Rumble! Orton lines up Edge in the corner as we see security come charging down to the ring! Security delay Orton as he tries to fight them off after they form a wall between Edge and himself! Orton attacks the first officer with a hard punch to the head before he RKO’S THE OTHER! There’s no one left between Orton and Edge now and he looks ready for the PUNT KICK BUT ORTON IS PULLED TO THE OUTSIDE OF THE RING BY…

CHRISTIAN!!!

CAPTAIN CHARISMA IS BACK! Christian pulls his brother’s tormentor and the very man who put him on the shelf for three weeks out of the ring! Christian is bringing it to Orton as he puts every ounce of might into his punches just laying into Orton! Orton is able to finally escape Christian as he high tails it out of the ringside area by jumping over the barricade and escaping the ire of Christian! Christian looks ready to chase Orton but knows he needs to check on his brother and that’s exactly what he does. Christian slides into the ring tending to Edge. Christian helps Edge back onto his feet as “Welcome Back” chants are scattered throughout the Thomas & Mack Center with many excited to see Christian make his triumphant return. Christian helps his brother to the outside of the ring as the two make their way backstage as the saga between Edge and Orton seems to have hit a huge turning point tonight.

Michael Cole
Edge has to be eternally grateful that Christian made his return tonight or otherwise we may have seen Edge suffer the same fate that his brother did back at the Royal Rumble

Tazz
Christian knew his brother needed him and despite maybe not being at one hundred percent himself he knew what had to be done! Kudos to Christian for always sticking with family.

Michael Cole
Both Edge and Christian have had their ups and downs over the last few years but family is blood and both men have proven they will always have one another’s backs.

Tazz
I’m excited to see Christian back so quickly because honestly after the devastating punt kick he suffered at the Royal Rumble - I was uncertain when we would see him return.

Michael Cole
Well he’s back and with the road to WrestleMania heating up soon it’s going to be interesting to see what role those three men all play.

We head backstage as Dolph Ziggler is being helped backstage by a referee who recommends him go to see a medical professional. Ziggler ignores the referee’s recommendation and instead heads to the locker room where he walks past Funaki and The Mexicools (Psicosis & Super Crazy) who are all gathered backstage and watch as Ziggler walks past them. The trio don’t say anything to Ziggler but as they are conversing Ziggler assumes they are making fun of him and he proceeds to interject.

Dolph Ziggler
SHUT UP!

Ziggler looks as if he is going to head to the locker room but he stops himself and charges at all three men! Ziggler hits Funaki with a cheap shot before Psicosis and Super Crazy go after him! The Mexicools have the advantage initially but Ziggler pushes Psicosis away before grabbing Super Crazy and throwing him across a refreshments table sending several sodas and bottles of water flying! Psicosis runs at Ziggler and gets hit with a Superkick! An irate and embarrassed Ziggler prepares to walk away but first he proceeds to shout in no specific direction at anyone who wants to listen!

Dolph Ziggler
Let this be a lesson to ANYONE who wants to ridicule me! I will not back down from ANYONE!

Ziggler turns around and starts to walk off but he runs into a brick wall. Not a literal brick wall but a figurative brick wall because he runs right into “The World’s Strongest Man” MARK HENRY! Ziggler raises his head looking up at Henry who does not seem impressed with Ziggler’s actions just now.

Mark Henry
You won’t back down from anyone huh?

Ziggler lets out a gulp as he looks up at Henry.

Dolph Ziggler
With all due respect I meant anyone but you…

Mark Henry
I know what I heard! So with “all due respect” how about you meet me in the ring Friday and I’ll give you your second minute long match this week courtesy of the “World’s Strongest Man”.

Henry slaps Ziggler on the back and puts a smile on his own face as he walks off. Ziggler sells the slap as he grabs at his back after finding another way to put himself into another sticky situation. Ziggler heads off towards the locker room as his long night finally appears to be coming to an end albeit getting himself into a very tough match on Friday against Mark Henry.

We are now sent to the parking garage where we see a blacked out Corvette come rolling up before parking and out comes JOHN CENA! Cena is approached by Josh Mathews who has been very busy tonight as we see Josh greet Cena once he steps out of his car.

Josh Mathews
John…first off I want to welcome you to No Way Out tonight!

Cena nods his head thanking Josh for the greeting as he grabs some luggage and begins to roll it. Mathews walks with Cena wanting to try and get an interview with the 2008 Royal Rumble Winner

John Cena
Thank you Josh. It’s an honor to be here tonight!

Josh Mathews
John - I’m uncertain if you’re aware of the news from earlier in the night but Ms. Terrell, Mr. Jonathan Coachman’s intern, presented an idea to him earlier tonight and it has been confirmed that YOU will be the Special Enforcer for the main event between Umaga and Jeff Hardy for the World Heavyweight Championship? So with that being said what are your thoughts on this big decision by Ms. Terrell and Mr. Coachman?

John Cena
I spoke with Mr. Coachman just a few minutes ago and he informed me of their decision and let me just say that I am excited to get a front row seat tonight to see what is going to be a HUGE main event! SmackDown is pulling out ALL of the stops tonight and rolling out the red carpet and it’s making my decision for tomorrow night a tough one!

Josh Mathews
Do you believe that being able to serve as the Special Enforcer tonight which will give you an up close and personal opportunity to see the “Charismatic Enigma” Jeff Hardy and the “Samoan Bulldozer” Umaga will help you finalize your WrestleMania decision tonight?

Cena continues to walk presumably towards the locker room but he’s stopped by ARMANDO ESTRADA - the handler of the World Heavyweight Champion - UMAGA. Umaga is nowhere to be seen - presumably prepping for his big match coming up later on tonight.

Armando Estrada
Estude’ me Meester Cena but I couldn’t help but to hear ‘ju say that you have a tough decision regarding ‘jur WrestleMania opponent. Well I beg to differ Meester Cena because there is only ONE decision for ‘JU to make!

Estrada chuckles at Cena as he points away from the Royal Rumble winner and happens to be pointing to the way that Cena just came from.

Armando Estrada
And ‘dat decision is for ‘ju to grab ‘jur bags and tuck ‘jur tail between ‘jur legs and run back to Monday Night Raw!

John Cena
Let me make one thing clear to you! I’m not running away from anybody at any place or any time! I’ve battled back over the last two years to get back on top of the mountain and despite all of the struggles and setbacks I’ve fought - THESE FANS (pointing to the arena) have never stopped supporting me! I do this for each and every one of the fans around the world and I’ll be DAMNED if you think I’m going to back down from any man!

Armando Estrada
Meester Cena…respectfully…

John Cena
Respectfully…I’ll see you later tonight.

Cena walks off from Estrada as Josh Mathews tries to get a final word from Umaga’s handler but Estrada takes his hat off as he watches Cena roll his luggage away and into the locker room. We’re sent outside as we see a camera shot show the outside of the Thomas & Mack Center where we are SOLD OUT tonight in the thrilling city of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Michael Cole
We thank you for joining us tonight for No Way Out no matter where you are watching from! It’s been a night to remember so far from our exciting matches, to the big news of John Cena serving as special enforcer later tonight to finally Christian’s return and we’re not done yet!

Tazz
No where close to being done yet because coming up next Gregory Helms puts his Intercontinental Championship on the line against Rob Van Dam!

Michael Cole
Rob Van Dam is looking to capture his first Intercontinental Championship in over four years and in order to do so he’s going to have to dethrone one of the most dominant champions of recent times in Gregory Helms.

Tazz
Less talk and more action! Let’s get this thing rolling Cole!

***ONE OF A KIND***

Pyro shoots off as “Mr. Friday Night” Rob Van Dam comes out onto the stage and does his thumb pose before additional pyro goes off. RVD walks down the ramp slapping hands with a few fans before rolling into the ring and spinning around as he has his eyes set on championship gold once more. RVD keeps jumping from side to side as he awaits his opponent and is working to stay fresh and ready to go.

Tony Chimel
The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the WWE Intercontinental Championship! Introducing first the challenger hailing from Battle Creek, Michigan weighing in at two hundred and thirty five pounds - he is ROB…VAN…DAM!!!

***IT’S TIME***

Confident as can be - the reigning Intercontinental Champion is out now as his eyes are set on setting himself up for a big WrestleMania match. Helms enters the Thomas & Mack Center to boos from the fans as he waves them off not concerned at all with their displeasure. Helms taunts RVD on the way down the ramp holding his belt high in the air with one hand telling RVD to get a good look at it now because this will be the closest he gets to the Intercontinental Championship ever again. Helms climbs up the steps and makes a beeline towards Van Dam trying to

Tony Chimel
Introducing his opponent hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina weighing in at two hundred and fifteen pounds…be is the WWE Intercontinental Champion…GREGORY HELMS!!!

Match #6 | WWE Intercontinental Championship
Gregory Helms © vs. Rob Van Dam

The bell rings and our third championship match of the evening is underway as both men circle the ring trying to psychologically fake out their opponent to get an early advantage in this contest. Van Dam looks ready to lock up with Helms but Helms instead rolls to the outside of the ring to take an early breather and perhaps just stall for time. Helms rolls back in as Van Dam stands back awaiting him to come back. Helms slaps his forearms acting as if he is finally ready to lock up and he does just that as both men meet in the center of the ring.

Helms gets Van Dam in a headlock first but it doesn’t last for long because Van Dam kicks the legs of Helms out from underneath him causing him to land back first on the mat! Helms angrily pulls himself back up and he goes to charge at Van Dam but RVD spins around looking for a Roundhouse Kick but Helms stumbles backwards losing his balance and landing right on his ass! RVD throws his fists up showing Helms he’s ready for a fight as Helms scurries towards the corner realizing he just saved himself from a swift roundhouse kick to the face.

Appearing to be thrown off his game already early on in this match up, Helms pushes himself back onto his feet trying to goad Van Dam to come after him in the corner but RVD is having none of it. This angers the champion who rushes at Van Dam once more but he gets caught in a drop toe hold causing him to face plant into the mat! Van Dam is essentially just toying with the champion now who is pissed off! The fans chant “RVD” as Helms is clearly frustrated at how the first minute of this contest has gone. Helms is talking to the referee about something but the referee ignores him and tells him to get back onto his feet and keep this match going.

Helms is back on his feet and he tells Van Dam to lock up with him again! Having had the early on advantage, a confident RVD does just that but it backfires after Helms puts Van Dam in a headlock he follows it up by turning his back to the referee and he pokes Van Dam right in the eye! Van Dam holds his eye as Helms grabs Van Dam and slams him back first onto the mat. Helms jumps on top of RVD and throws some hard right hands to the point the referee has to impede and pull Helms off of RVD. Helms tells the referee he can’t break up the attacks and he’s not going to deal with this biasness tonight.

The champion pulls Van Dam up and proceeds to throw RVD’s head underneath his shoulder before hitting a very swift Snap Suplex! Helms sits up looking at RVD as he points to this opponent asking the fans if “this is their guy?”. This creates several boos around the arena as it’s clear the fans are done with Helms and his championship reign. Helms pulls Van Dam up one more time before Irish whipping him into the ropes! Rob Van Dam comes sprinting back at the champion Helms who hits him with a beautiful dropkick. Helms throws Van Dam’s head back pushing his shoulders against the mat as he goes for the first pin fall attempt.

One…

…Tw

Not going to be enough to put the former WWE Champion away! Helms averts his attention to ramping up his move set now as he’s started to turn the momentum onto his side. Helms grabs Van Dam off the mat and goes to lift him into the air but RVD locks his leg with Helms! Helms tries to lift Van Dam up once again but Van Dam instead counters by lifting Helms up and trying to bring him crashing down with a Vertical Suplex but Helms lands on his feet! With his back turned to Van Dam’s back, Helms grabs Van Dam pulling him down with a Neckbreaker! Helms jumps on top of Van Dam as he thinks he may have an opportunity here once more.

One…

…Two

A tad bit later than the last kick out but still not a three count to give Helms his championship back! Helms immediately pounces back onto his feet and gets Van Dam back onto his feet as well. Helms Irish whips RVD into the corner before taking a step back and charging at RVD in the corner! Van Dam tosses Helms into the air as Helms was looking for a Corner Splash but as mentioned Van Dam propels Helms into the air and over the ropes. The champion though lands on the apron before catching Van Dam with an elbow to the face sending the challenger reeling backwards albeit still on his feet.

Helms jumps on the top rope and when Van Dam turns around he’s pounced on by Helms with a Flying Clothesline! The champion is pumping his fist to jeers from the fans in Las Vegas as Helms is pointing to his wrist saying “it’s time”. It looks like Helms is ready to put away his opponent and bring his night to an early end. Helms watches as Van Dam rolls over and pushes himself back up but before he can even get back on his feet he’s hit with a running knee to the head from the champion! Helms pounces back onto his feet pulling Van Dam up and hits him with a Northern Lights Suplex and he keeps the bridge. The referee counts as Helms looks to retain gold here.

One…

…Two

Th…

The latest kick out from Van Dam yet but he’s able to break free of the bridge to keep his championship dreams alive! Helms has his eyes set on something big now as everything he has tried to this point has yet to result in a victory for him. Helms pulls Van Dam up and Van dam retaliates by going to kick Helms but Helms catches the foot of Van Dam! Helms taunts Van Dam asking him what he’s going to do now as Van Dam is on one leg hobbling around! Helms throws Van Dam’s leg down and Helms goes to kick Van Dam in the sternum but RVD catches his leg! Van Dam spins around and hits a perfect stepover Spinning Wheel Kick! He falls on top of Helms looking to capture the Intercontinental Championship once again in his illustrious career!

One…

…Two

T…

Gregory Helms kicks out meaning that this match will continue on! Van Dam prepares to bend down and pull Helms back up but Helms instead pulls Van Dam forward and cradles him for a pin fall! The referee doesn’t even have a chance to try and count the pin fall though because Van Dam rolls out of it! Helms scurries back up and charges at Van Dam but Van Dam sidesteps him and hurls Helms through the middle rope to the outside of the ring! The reigning champion lands on the mat on the outside with a thud as his plan seems to have been foiled by his opponent. Van Dam is still in the ring and he watches as Helms gets back onto his feet and as he turns around Van Dam takes flight! RVD leaps over the top rope landing on Helms with a Springboard Crossbody which pushes their momentum back first into the barricade!

Once he’s back onto his feet RVD plays to the fans briefly who are continuing to rally behind him in an effort to cheer him on to victory. He grabs Helms off of the barricade and looks as if he is going to throw Helms back into the ring but Helms instead counters and Irish whips Van Dam into the barricade nearest the timekeeper’s table and the commentators booth. Van Dam hits the barricade back first and as he clutches at his back we see Helms come full spring towards RVD! Van Dam propels Helms though, throwing him over his shoulder and over the barricade! Helms surprises everyone though by somehow landing on his feet on the other side of the barricade but he’s clocked with a right hand from Van Dam causing him to fall forward which allows Van Dam to pull him over a little closer away from the corner ringpost and closer to the ring apron!

Van Dam hits Helms with a clubbing blow to the back before heading back towards the ring and rolling in before the referee can start a ten count. The referee tries to plead with RVD to bring Helms back into the ring but RVD has other ideas in mind. He looks at Helms who is hanging over the barricade and he steps to the outside of the ring standing on the apron! Van Dam does his thumb pose taunt before hollering out “Rob…Van…Dam”. RVD leaps off the barricade with a Corkscrew Leg Drop to Helms’ back! Helms slumps off the barricade as he falls forward and Van Dam plays to the fans a little more as he’s clearly feeling it right now!

The referee begins a ten count now as he’s gone far too long with the two men competing on the outside and not in the ring and he has to make sure to keep order!

One…

…Two

Three…

…Four

While it took a few seconds for RVD to get his opponent up; he rolls him back into the ring and slides in himself! RVD looks down at Helms and springs off the ropes before cartwheeling into a Moonsault! Once he lands on Helms he stays on top of him and hooks the leg!

One…

…Two

Thr…

Gregory Helms gets his shoulder up! The battle continues as these two top superstars continue to give it their all in an effort to be able to be called the Intercontinental Champion. Van Dam needs to find an opportunity to keep the match going with his well gained momentum and he appears to be heading up to the top rope this time! Van Dam looks ready as if he is going to take flight but Helms smartly rolls to the outside of the ring. Albeit not being on his feet, the champion realized that if he’s not in the ring his chances of being hit by any top rope move from Van Dam certainly decrease! Van Dam jumps down from the top rope and heads over towards Helms!

Van Dam looks like he’s about to step through the middle ropes but a savvy Helms pops onto his feet and sweeps the legs of Van Dam pulling him off of his feet and to the outside of the ring! Helms then pulls RVD towards him before driving him back first into the ring apron! Helms takes Van Dam once more and repeats the same move as Van Dam lets out a screech of pain as his back has taken a beating early on from the Intercontinental Champion Gregory Helms. The champion grabs Van Dam pushing him under the bottom rope and back into the ring.

Showing that he’s slowing down a little - it takes Helms a few seconds as he gathers himself on the outside before he decides it’s time to head back into the ring. The champion rolls into the ring staggering around for a few seconds before making his way over to Rob Van Dam. With RVD clutching at his back - the champion grabs Van Dam and pulls him up and talks some trash to his opponent while bringing him back onto his feet. Helms slaps Van Dam across the face for good measure and ultimate disrespect before leaping up and hitting the Helms Buster driving Van Dam’s face right into his knee! Helms shouts at Van Dam as he crawls over and throws his arm over RVD! The champion believes that this may be it and he may be retaining gold here.

One…

…Two

Th…

ROB VAN DAM KICKS OUT! Cole and Tazz discuss how Van Dam is just not going to roll over for Helms as that is not his modus operandi and he’s not going to start doing it now! Helms’ frustrations are really starting to set in now as it’s very evident that he’s facing arguably his toughest challenge he’s had to date yet as Intercontinental Champion. Helms brings Van Dam back onto one knee as he looks to have something in mind for what his next move is but who knows. Helms heads towards the corner as he pulls himself onto the middle turnbuckle stalking his opponent ready to strike at the right time!

A groggy Rob Van Dam is now back up fully on his feet but it’s not for too long because Helms jumps over him and hits him with a Diving Neckbreaker! The impact of Van Dam’s head hitting the mat is heard around the arena as Helms scurries towards RVD looking for another pin fall attempt convinced this may be it!

One…

…Two

Thr…

A bit of a later kick out from Van Dam in relation to his other kick outs but he’s still alive! Helms seems taken aback as he’s really starting to wonder what it’s going to take to put away Mr. Friday Night to secure the victory. Helms seems to be fixated on the corner turnbuckle as he pulls Van Dam up and drags him over the corner. He hits him with a few right hands followed by some blows to the back before lifting him up and planting him sitting on the top turnbuckle. Helms follows this up with a few more right hands before he ascends the ropes himself and he finds himself standing on the top rope.

Van Dam who is still seated is pulled up and brought up to the top rope by Helms! With both men teetering on the top rope and danger awaiting any wrong move - Helms hits a headbutt to Van Dam who tried to fight back so he could try and knock Helms off the ropes but obviously he was unsuccessful in doing so! The champion grabs Van Dam pulling him off the top rope as both men come flying off the top rope with HELMS HITTING VAN DAM WITH A SUPER SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Both men are down as Helms doesn’t appear to be able to capitalize (at least immediately) as the fans are stunned at all of the stops being pulled out here tonight!

With us now being twelve minutes in to this contest it’s becoming tough for either side to truly gain an extended period of domination in order to try and put away their fellow competitor. The referee checks on Van Dam as he doesn’t appear to be moving and he then goes to check on Helms but we see Helms dragging his body towards Van Dam! The referee watches on along with the fans in Vegas as Helms drags himself closer to Van Dam before finally being able to reach him with an arm! Helms drapes his arm over Van Dam as the referee counts what may be the decisive pin fall!

One…

….Two

Thre…

HOW IN THE WORLD DID ROB VAN DAM GET A SHOULDER UP?!?!? Michael Cole is absolutely stunned but Tazz says he is not surprised in the slightest saying that Rob Van Dam is one tough “son of a bitch”. Helms is still sprawled out on the mat and he sits his head up stunned once more at what his opponent has been able to do to keep themselves alive in this contest. Helms doesn’t really appear to know what he’s going to have to do to put Van Dam away and it’s clearly wearing on him physically and mentally the further this match goes along.

Helms drags himself towards the bottom rope as he positions himself facing Rob Van Dam and he leans himself up against the bottom and middle rope. Helms pulls on his bandana, throwing it to the outside of the ring in frustration! Helms drags himself to the corner turnbuckle now taking a breather for a few seconds before pulling himself back up. The champion stumbles over towards Rob Van Dam as he stands over Van Dam shaking his head in amazement that Van Dam survived the Super Swinging Neckbreaker! Helms is in a deep staggering state of mind trying to comprehend that nothing he’s thrown at Van Dam has been enough!

Helms pulls Van Dam up by his head and watches as RVD is sat up on his knees. Helms slaps him across the face showing the ultimate sign of disrespect before telling him to “stay down”. Helms backs up towards the corner he was just in before using the ropes as a propeller as he takes off dashing towards Van Dam! Helms is looking for the Shining Wizard but Van Dam collapses onto the mat as Helms obviously misses the Shining Wizard! Helms maintains his balance but as he rushes at Van Dam again Van Dam throws his feet into the chest of Helms and uses his strong legs to muscle Helms over his head flipping him over with a modified Monkey Flip!

Van Dam’s neck and back have taken a beating and it’s showing as he’s struggling right now to get himself back up in a timely manner! Helms finds himself dragging his way into a corner as he is irate that he failed once again to put RVD away. The resiliency of the number one contender is showing why he’s such an accomplished wrestler over the duration of his career. Helms is having none of it though as he slides to the outside of the ring to try and break any opportunity that Van Dam has to try and build momentum.

Helms heads to the timekeeper’s table as he demands his championship and says that he is leaving! The timekeeper obliges Helms’ request as he is handed the Intercontinental Championship and looks ready to leave but not before we see Rob Van Dam roll to the outside of the ring. Van Dam tries to come towards Helms but the champion evades his opponent and slides back into the ring with the championship belt! Helms goes to swing the belt at Van Dam when he slides back into the ring but the referee pulls the belt back from Helms breaking his grip of the belt and telling him he’s not going to allow him to use the belt! Helms argues with the referee which backfires because Helms turns around into a Springboard Thrust knocking the champion off of his feet.

Van Dam sets his eyes towards finishing off the champion now as he looks down at Helms and dashes off the ropes and hits Rolling Thunder! Van Dam’s back took an impact on the Rolling Thunder and he shows so by clutching his back but he points to the ropes as he hobbles his way over to the corner. Van Dam ascends the top ropes as the fans will him on as he looks at Helms who is a little over more than halfway across the ring. We all know that Van Dam is capable of hitting his signature moves from nearly anywhere in the ring so RVD doesn’t look fazed. Van Dam jumps off the top rope - FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH! WAIT…NO! HELMS PULLS HIS KNEES UP AND RVD LANDS RIGHT ON THE KNEES OF HELMS! RVD is clutching his ribs as Helms pulls him in with a cradle and grabs the tights! The referee doesn’t see that Helms has the tights as he drops down for the count.

One…

…Two

Three…

Tony Chimel
Here is your winner and STILL the WWE Intercontinental Champion…GREGORY HELMS!!!

Match Result: Gregory Helms def. Rob Van Dam at 16:28 to retain the WWE Intercontinental Championship

Gregory Helms stumbles up the ramp as the referee has to meet up with him to hand him his championship belt. Helms falls down midway up the ramp backing up as he is seated holding the Intercontinental Championship symbolically showing how he had to literally escape from victory by using underhanded tactics. Helms holds the belt up again with one hand in the air mocking Van Dam as Van Dam stands over the ropes hands over his head realizing what just happened.

Michael Cole
Such a disappointing ending to what was a thrilling championship match! The champion, Gregory Helms, had to resort to using dirty tactics by grabbing the tights and that’s the only reason he managed to retain his championship tonight!

Tazz
I’m as big of a Rob Van Dam fan as they come but give credit to Gregory Helms for getting his knees up on the Five Star Frog Splash before capitalizing and getting the win.

Michael Cole
Capitalizing is a very nice way to pronounce the word cheating because that’s exactly what the champion did! He had to resort to using underhanded tactics in order to retain his championship

Tazz
Call it what you want but the fact remains the same that Gregory Helms is still the Intercontinental Champion and will presumably still be champion heading into WrestleMania next month!

**********

WrestleMania Rewind | WrestleMania XI
Sunday April 2, 1995
Hartford Civic Center | Hartford, Connecticut

In one of the most “interesting” main events of WrestleMania history - former NFL player Lawrence Taylor of the New York Giants - was accompanied by many teammates and fellow NFL players to go up against Bam Bam Bigelow who was protected by Ted DiBiase’s Million Dollar Corporation. The feud stemmed from Bam Bam Bigelow shoving LT at the 1995 Royal Rumble which led to Bigelow changing Taylor to a wrestling match on the Grandest Stage of Them All! Taylor would be successful defeating Bigelow and gaining big coverage from sports networks and other media networks due to his name value as a former NFL superstar.

42 Days Until WrestleMania XXIV

**********

We end up backstage after the WrestleMania Rewind as we see a video of Jeff Hardy stretching in the hallway eagerly awaiting the main event coming up soon. We’re then sent elsewhere backstage where MVP is standing by with his hired body - BIG E!

MVP
E, you ready for this?

Big E not being a man of many words nods his head towards MVP saying yes.

MVP
Let me just say that tonight is arguably the BIGGEST night of your career so far!

Big E nods in agreement as he acknowledges the task he has ahead of him by having to face “Big Zeke” Ezekiel Jackson here very soon.

MVP
You’ve got an opportunity to prove that anyone who bets against you is throwing away money! A bet on Big E is a big money bet that will always pay out big money and let me just say I know a thing or two about big money ya’ feel me?

MVP laughs as he slaps Big E on the back and continues his pep talk!

MVP
There’s a reason I kicked Ezekiel to the curb and it’s because I found YOU! I found a physical specimen that is capable of destroying ANYTHING AND ANYONE that gets in his path! And that’s exactly what is needed to protect such a valuable asset as myself…

MVP flashes his chain as Big E continues to nod.

MVP
Because when the lights are shining the brightest - and oh do they shine bright when I’m in the ring - ALL EYES ARE ON ME!

MVP throws his hands in the air posing as he hypes himself up even more.

MVP
The money maker, the show stealer…MR. WRESTLEMANIA HIMSELF!

The fans boo the mention of MVP calling himself “Mr. WrestleMania” as it’s clear that he’s referencing the exact man he called out this past Friday on SmackDown - Shawn Michaels!

MVP
It’s time to take care of business and then Friday we’ll address good ole’ HBK. Let’s go E!

MVP and Big E walk off headed towards the arena as MVP is dressed to the nines tonight in one of the finest suits along with a fedora and some of the finest cufflinks along. The duo make their way towards the arena as our next contest is about to begin.

***I’M COMIN’***

Big E enters the arena to MVP’s music as the big man is ready for his biggest match in the company to date! Big E slaps his shoulders and lets out a roar as he tightens his straps on his singlet and heads down the ramp. MVP rubs his shoulders as the duo make their way towards the ring. MVP is talking trash the entire way down the ramp as he walks up the steps and poses behind Big E as the duo look into the hard camera selling the intensity of Big E!

Tony Chimel
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by Montel Vontavious Porter, from Tampa, Florida weighing in at two hundred and ninety pounds - BIG E!!!

***DOMINATION***

Ezekiel Jackson is out next as he is ready to compete against the man who replaced him as MVP's bodyguard - Big E! These two men have come face to face a variety of times so far but have yet to go one on one in the squared circle. Jackson locks his eyes on MVP and Big E on his way down to the ring before sliding in and having to listen to MVP talk trash while hiding behind Big E.

Tony Chimel
And his opponent hailing from Harlem, New York and weighing in at three hundred and seven pounds, he is “Big Zeke” Ezekiel Jackson!!!

Match #7 | Singles Match
Big E w/ MVP vs. Ezekiel Jackson

The battle between the current and former hired muscle of Montel Vontavious Porter is underway as the referee calls for the bell and these two behemoths immediately charge towards one another! Big E tries to knock down his predecessor with a shoulder block but Jackson doesn’t budge! Jackson tells him to hit him with it again to which Big E does so and Jackson doesn’t move again! MVP shouts at Big E to not “play into his trap” which misfires because Big E’s second looking away is costly as Ezekiel Jackson hits him with a clothesline!

Big E isn’t knocked off of his feet but he does stumble back into the ropes. This gives Jackson an opportunity to push Big E against the ropes and lift his hand up high in the air before slapping Big E in the chest with an open palm! Big E grabs at his chest to which Big Zeke follows it up with another slap! Big E pushes Zeke away momentarily but when Big E finds himself coming off the ropes he’s reeled in by Jackson who pulls Big E in with a bear hug before hitting a Belly to Belly Suplex on Big E! Jackson rises back onto his feet and goes to pick Big E up once again but Big E rolls away!

Big E realizes he needs to stall for some time and he decides to roll to the outside of the ring to get a pep talk from MVP on what his next step will be! MVP huddles with him giving him some tips before he tells Zeke he’s not getting back into the ring until he backs up! Jackson plays fair holding his hands up as he takes a few steps back allowing Big E time to get into the ring. Big E tells Jackson to meet him in the middle of the ring and they will have a test of strength! Big E and Jackson both meet in the center of the ring with MVP shouting at Jackson telling him he’s making a mistake going into a strength test with the new big man - Big E!

Jackson and Big E lock up with the battle of strength with neither man being able to grab an early advantage and neither man has moved an inch in the ring. It’s a battle between these two men trying to push one another backwards to gain a strength advantage. Big E manages to push the hands of Jackson over and begins to use his strength to push the hands downwards causing Jackson’s knees to start buckling as he begins to go towards the mat. Jackson uses his strength and size advantage height wise though to push himself up and turn the tables on Big E! Jackson returns the favor by pushing Big E downwards into the mat as Big E’s hands are being bent backwards!

Once Jackson realizes he has an advantage on Big E he breaks free of the hold and kicks Big E in the sternum causing him to bend over and drop onto his knees. Jackson steps backwards before running after Big E looking for a big knee to the head but Big E ducks out of the way and pulls himself up. When Ezekiel springs off the ropes he runs backwards into a big elbow from Big E! E stands over Jackson letting out a loud roar before proceeding to pick up his opponent off the mat. Big E springs off the ropes himself this time as Jackson gets back onto his feet and he hits his Running Body Block, the E-Train, causing Jackson to collapse onto the mat! The force of the impact from Big E onto Jackson sends Jackson collapsing down and Big E jumps on him for a pin fall.

One…

…Tw

VERY QUICK KICK OUT FROM EZEKIEL JACKSON! Big E grabs Jackson dragging him into the corner before hurling him back first! Big E throws a series of right hands to the chest of Jackson causing him to bend over forwards before laying it on him with even more rights! The referee tries to intervene as Jackson looks defenseless but it only backfires once Big E throws his hands up and steps away! This allows MVP to jump on the ring apron and grab the tag team rope and start choking out Ezekiel with the rope! Jackson is flailing his arms trying to get the referee’s attention but MVP jumps down off the apron conveniently in the nick of time to avoid being caught by the ref. The referee questions MVP as something seems off to him but MVP swears he did nothing and that he has been watching from the ground the entire time!

Big E takes advantage of this assist from his client as he heads into the opposite corner and dashes towards Jackson hitting a HUGE running turnbuckle thrust causing Jackson to double over! Big E then shows off his strength as he struggles momentarily but he’s able to lift the big Ezekiel Jackson up with a Back Body Drop! Knowing he needs to take advantage of the thunderous impact the ring just felt, he drops down and covers Ezekiel for his second pin fall attempt of the evening.

One…

…Two

A little later of a kick out from Jackson but still done in enough time to ensure that he stays alive in this battle of the behemoths. Big E looks as if he is ready to go ahead and finish off Jackson and that’s exactly what MVP shouts at him to do! Big E peels Jackson up off of the mat and tries to lift him on his shoulders for the Big Ending but his opponent is just too big for him to easily do so! Jackson slides off the shoulders and pushes Big E off the ropes! When Big E bounces back towards Jackson he’s hit with a BIG BOOT! Big E does a flip due to the impact of the Big Boot from the big man Ezekiel Jackson which is a feat in itself! Jackson scurries over towards Big E getting his first pin fall attempt and hopefully his only one!

One…

…Two

BIG E GETS THE SHOULDER UP! Jackson rises back onto his feet and pulls Big E off the mat. He goes to lift Big E onto his shoulders just like Big E tried to do so but he succeeds! It looks like Jackson is looking for a Running Powerslam but MVP grabs the leg of Big E and pulls it backwards preventing Jackson from being able to hit his move! MVP is working his hardest to pull Big E over the ropes but Jackson rips Big E away but not in time for him to lose his grip after Big E knees him in the head consecutively. The referee tells MVP to get down off the ropes and if he interferes again he will be ejected! MVP doesn’t seem bothered however considering the damage is done now and he has turned the momentum back onto his enforcer’s side.

After the knees to the head to Jackson, Big E hits a chop block onto the leg of Jackson before dashing off the ropes opposite from Jackson and hits a Running Crossbody knocking Jackson off his feet! Jackson starts to roll around though as it’s going to take a lot more to keep the big man down! Big E realizes this and after turning his attention to MVP he’s told by MVP to ascend the ropes! Big E looks uneasy but he listens to what the former World Heavyweight Champion has to say and he heads to the corner. Big E climbs the ropes and looks down at Jackson and looks ready to leap before we hear…

***SEXY BOY***

Is it? IS IT SHAWN MICHAELS?!?!?

Big E’s attention is diverted as MVP turns around looking around the Thomas & Mack Center frantically to see if the legend is anywhere to be found! MVP runs up the ramp thinking he can ambush HBK once he enters the arena but Michaels is nowhere to be seen! MVP looks around frustrated that he can’t find HBK but it appears that he’s not here tonight! MVP rips his tie off and throws his hands up as he awaits Michaels to show his face at the top of the stage but it doesn’t appear as if that is going to happen!

Back to the ring - Big E is still standing on the top rope as he’s watching MVP! Big E looks at Jackson now who is back onto his feet and Big E realizes it’s all or nothing as he jumps off the top rope looking for a Diving Double Axe Handle but Jackson catches the hands of Big E and uses his strength to push the hands upwards preventing Big E from hitting the move! The fans are in awe as Big E is STUNNED at the strength of Jackson who reels him in quickly lifting Big E up into the air and he hits THE BOOK OF EZEKIEL! MVP is at the top of the stage looking around frantically as he looks towards the ring and realizes what is going on! He tries to charge down the ramp as Jackson covers Big E but it may be too late!

One…

…Two

Three…

Tony Chimel
Here is your winner…EZEKIEL JACKSON!!!

Match Result: Ezekiel Jackson def. Big E @ 7:48

MVP immediately slides into the ring interrupting Big Zeke from having his hand raised as he pounds his finger into the chest of Jackson accusing him of setting up HBK’s music to play and cost Big E the match! Jackson says he had nothing to do with that happening but MVP is not buying it. MVP goes to push Jackson to further drive his point home but Jackson pulls MVP in and hits the BOOK OF EZEKIEL ON MVP! Jackson stands over both MVP and Big E as the referee finally raises his hand awarding him a big victory in his early career in the WWE.

Michael Cole
What a win tonight for Ezekiel Jackson as he managed to defeat the man who replaced him as MVP’s bodyguard in Big E! It was certainly a hard fought contest between those two giants of men but it’s Ezekiel that emerges victorious in the battle of the heavyweights

Tazz
I do find it rather interesting that after MVP’s comments earlier in the night regarding Shawn Michaels that conveniently the “Heart Break Kid’s” music would play costing Big E the match!

Michael Cole
It is rather odd that Michaels’ music played but he was nowhere to be found but as far as we know he has yet to be cleared to return to the ring anyways due to the heinous attack he suffered at the hands of Umaga after his championship match at the Royal Rumble!

Tazz
Well one thing is for certain that Shawn Michaels has now made himself public enemy number one for MVP and with Big E backing him up it may be a very BIG mistake

Michael Cole
We need to give credit where credit is due though regarding Ezekiel Jackson earning his biggest victory to date in the WWE by defeating another fellow newcomer in Big E! The sky's the limit for Ezekiel Jackson and there are not many people who can stand in Ezekiel’s way! Let’s send it backstage now where Josh Mathews is standing by looking to get the final word from Jeff Hardy! Josh…take it away!

We’re sent backstage where Jeff Hardy is seen doing some final stretches and taping up his wrists in the process as Josh Mathews is standing by with him.

Josh Mathews
Jeff, thank you for this time!

Jeff nods his head as he continues to stretch in preparation for the biggest main event in his career in quite a long time!

Josh Mathews
We are just moments away from your first singles match in your career for the World Heavyweight Championship! Your opponent is a man who has rarely been pinned and has never submitted in his time in the WWE and has been bulldozing through opponents at an alarming rate. What can you tell us that will make you be the one to dethrone Umaga of his World Heavyweight Championship tonight?

Jeff Hardy
Oh man…

Hardy wipes his brow as sweat is dripping down his head as the realization of the goal is starting to settle in. Hardy looks at Josh and his emotions start to show a little but not overwhelmingly as that would possibly cause a huge disadvantage for him in the match.

Jeff Hardy
Ten years ago my brother Matt and I signed our very first contracts with the WWE! Ten LONG years of traveling over 300 days a year and competing night in and night out, ten LONG years of taking death defying chances, ten LONG years of disappointing not only myself but most of all YOU - the fans!

The fans cheer for Hardy acknowledging his mess ups in the past but that is indeed the past.

Jeff Hardy
I’ve been a failure time and time again in my career! I’ve had opportunities handed to me and I dropped the ball every single time! I found myself released from the WWE because I couldn’t kick my habits and I tuned out the people who tried to help me get my life right! I was on a path to disaster and to me it felt like there was no way out.

Hardy finishes wrapping his tape around his wrist as he looks deep into the camera.

Jeff Hardy
I’ve overcome my demons and proven that there is a way out and that is how I ended up with a second opportunity here in the WWE! I had to prove to Mr. McMahon and the entire company that I had changed during my time away. I had to prove that I was no longer a liability risk and that I could be trusted to compete as a WWE superstar once again. And that all leads to tonight…

Hardy looks towards Josh now as his tone has deepened to a side of Jeff Hardy we haven’t really ever seen.

Jeff Hardy
This is what I’ve waited for for TEN LONG YEARS! The opportunity of a lifetime and I will not let it pass me by! The opportunity to not only dethrone the unbeatable Samoan Bulldozer Umaga but the opportunity to capture my FIRST EVER WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP!

Las Vegas pops loudly at the thought of Jeff Hardy capturing his first major championship here in the WWE!

Jeff Hardy
There’s no way out for Umaga tonight because he cannot run away from the enigma that is Jeff Hardy! There is quite frankly no one else in this industry like me and I use that distinctiveness to my advantage! Tonight is the night that finally I prove that I am not a screw up and that I am not a disappointing brother, cousin, son, nephew, you name it! Tonight is the night that Jeff Hardy finally breaks through the glass ceiling and fully realizes my destiny as the NEW World Heavyweight Champion!

Hardy walks off as the time is near for the main event. Josh Mathews is left standing by smiling as he watches Hardy walk away fully amped up for the main event. But first…

***MY TIME IS NOW***

JOHN CENA IS OUT FIRST! Cena runs out onto the stage playing up to the fans as he is here ready to serve as Special Enforcer for tonight’s main event. Cena hurries down the ramp as he doesn’t want to take away from the moment for Jeff Hardy who is out next! Cena takes his seat at ringside near the timekeeper’s table after shaking hands with Michael Cole and Tazz as they welcome him being SmackDown’s guest tonight at No Way Out!

***LOADED***

Jeff Hardy emerges from backstage dancing to the beat of his song and pumping himself up as he goes from side to side on the stage! The roof is blown off the Thomas & Mack Center as Hardy is ready to go for the biggest main event match of his career! Hardy hurries down the ramp sliding in and posing on the ropes to the fans even more as he looks around the arena and soaks in the moment.

Tony Chimel
The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP! Introducing first the challenger hailing from Cameron, North Carolina weighing in at two hundred and twenty five pounds…he is “The Charismatic Enigma” JEFF HARDY!!!

***TRIBAL TROUBLE***

The World Heavyweight Champion is the third and final person out as Armando Estrada leads the Samoan Bulldozer out onto the stage with his championship belt dangling from his mouth. Estrada takes the championship belt before walking down the ramp and holding it high in the air for Jeff Hardy to see it. Estrada shouts at Hardy on his way down the ramp that “‘’ju will never hold dis championship”. Umaga storms up the steel steps and into the ring before throwing his arms out and letting out a ring shaking yell! Estrada follows behind Umaga into the ring holding the belt high up taunting Hardy with it before the referee finally takes possession of the belt. The referee then shows both men the belt before holding it up high in the air!

Tony Chimel
And his opponent accompanied to the ring by Armando Estrada and hailing from the Isle of Samoa weighing in at three hundred and fifty two pounds, he is the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION… “The Samoan Bulldozer” UMAAAAAAGGGGGAAAAAA!!!

Match #8 | World Heavyweight Championship
Umaga © w/ Armando Estrada vs. Jeff Hardy
w/ John Cena as Special Enforcer

Once the bell rings Jeff Hardy takes off after Umaga and is wasting no time bringing the fight to Umaga! Hardy gets a running start leaping into the air and hitting Umaga with a series of wild punches which connect! Hardy backs Umaga into the corner but a quick headbutt from Umaga immediately changes the course of the fight that Hardy was bringing early on to the champion! Umaga grabs Jeff Hardy and throws him like a rag doll spinning around and tossing the much smaller Hardy up into the air and back first into the turnbuckle! Hardy collides with the turnbuckles as he pulls himself forward feeling the impact from being launched against his will!

Umaga dashes after Hardy in the corner but Hardy slips underneath the middle rope and finds himself standing on the ring apron on the outside! Umaga collides chest first with the turnbuckle covering himself as the momentum was too much for him to stop suddenly just like a runaway freight train! Hardy jumps onto the top rope and as Umaga turns around he leaps off the ropes towards Umaga with a Springboard Dropkick! The dropkick does connect but it’s Hardy who takes the brunt of the damage because Umaga doesn’t budge! Hardy lands on his back and Umaga is left standing up straight like a brick wall!

Umaga drags Hardy up by the hair as Armando Estrada is shown laughing at Hardy! Umaga grabs Jeff, throwing him onto his shoulders and he hits a Running Powerslam! Umaga covers Hardy looking to earn himself a quick night of work in retaining his championship belt in quick fashion.

One…

…Tw

Jeff Hardy is not going to go down like that as he kicks out! The camera cuts to John Cena at the timekeeper’s table who seems impressed with the power of the World Heavyweight Champion so far! Armando Estrada hollers at Cena from across the ring telling him to pay close attention to the damage that Umaga is going to cause to Jeff Hardy! Cena doesn’t speak back but instead keeps his eyes locked in on the Samoan Bulldozer! Umaga locks eyes with Cena as he grabs Jeff Hardy once again and brings him crashing right back into the mat with a hard slap to the chest! Umaga grabs Hardy and does it for a second time as the chest of Jeff Hardy is turning beet red due to very loud and impactful slaps to the chest from the champion!

Umaga stands over Hardy before jumping into the air and bringing his massive knee down onto the throat of Jeff Hardy with a knee drop! Hardy rolls around grabbing his throat as it is very clear what Umaga has in plan now! He’s looking to target the throat of Jeff Hardy just like he did Shawn Michaels last month at the Royal Rumble! Umaga stands over the grounded Hardy who tries to sit himself up but he’s brought right back onto his back on the mat after a low kick to the back from Umaga! Hardy is taking a beating early on in the match as Umaga stands over him letting out a primal scream as the champion’s dominance early on in this match is rather telling for how this match may continue to go.

The World Heavyweight Champion pulls Jeff Hardy back up and he pushes Hardy backwards into the ropes! Hardy bounces backwards before he rebounds off the ropes and is turned inside out with a Lariat! Hardy does a complete flip as Umaga flips him over and covers the challenger.

One…

…Two

Hardy manages to kick out somehow despite the impactful Lariat. Hardy lets out a loud cough as the throat was once again a key target of Umaga in his offensive attacks! Umaga looks angered that Hardy kicked out forcefully and he decides to take it out on his opponent even more by hitting a Running Headbutt! Umaga is dominating early on and it doesn’t look like that’s going to change anytime soon! The champion pushes himself up off the mat looking as if he’s barely broken a sweat in the over three minutes this match has been going on! The Samoan Bulldozer grabs Hardy throwing him onto his shoulders and charges into the corner launching Hardy nearly halfway across the ring like a lawn dart as Hardy’s face and throat both collide with the top turnbuckle! Umaga looks on as Hardy collapses onto the mat holding his throat as it continues to take a brutal beating from the World Heavyweight Champion and may be starting to wear a toll on Hardy early on in this contest.

Umaga slowly saunters towards Hardy in the corner, not getting in too much of a hurry with his opponent suffering in the corner. Umaga grabs Hardy and shoves him backwards into the turnbuckles before heading off on his way towards the opposite corner. Umaga takes off on a running start and charges towards Hardy before leaping into the air with a Corner Splash! Hardy’s head hits backwards on the turnbuckle and as he tries to come out of the corner he’s grabbed by the hair and thrown down onto the mat! Umaga jumps on top of Hardy with another pin fall attempt as he looks to retain his championship here.

One…

…Two

T…

Hardy stays alive by getting his shoulder up in the nick of time! The dominant showing from Umaga so far in this contest has not resulted in a victory despite him hitting Hardy with a variety of impactful moves. Umaga kicks Hardy around on the mat as the challenger is rolling around in agony and the champion is just taunting him at this point in the contest. Umaga grabs the ropes and steps on the throat of Hardy bringing his weight down right into the throat of Hardy! The referee tells Umaga he’s going to have to break the count as he reaches three and Armando Estrada shouts at Umaga to let go of the ropes! Umaga steps backwards but the damage may have been done as Hardy’s throat continues to take a beating!

Umaga looks back to Hardy on the mat and he grabs the ropes before jumping into the air with a Seated Senton bringing his large frame crashing onto the head of Hardy! Umaga remains seated on top of Hardy as he looks to secure the victory right here!

One…

…Two

Thr…

Hardy manages to stay in the match by getting his leg on the ropes! The camera cuts to John Cena who is showing some concern for the absolute mauling that Jeff Hardy has suffered so far in this contest. Umaga turns his attention to Cena as they have a brief stare down with one another across the arena. Umaga makes his way over closer to Cena as he shouts inaudible language at Cena! Cena goes to stand up but we see Armando Estrada hurry across to him trying to get in front of Cena to prevent him from distracting Umaga during the contest! Cena and Estrada come face to face as Umaga watches on from the ring waiting to strike if necessary but more worried about his match as he should be!

Estrada tells Cena - “‘ju better sit down Meester Cena if ‘ju know what is best for ‘ju”. Cena looks like he’s going to sit down as Estrada shouts at him loudly to listen to what he said! Cena looks around the Thomas & Mack Center as the fans are chanting “Cena, Cena, Cena” and essentially telling him to not listen to what Estrada has to say. After all - he is the Special Enforcer - tasked with making sure that nothing gets out of hand and no unfair advantages are used. Estrada stands near Cena once again telling him that Cena can’t touch him as he waves his finger around taunting Cena. Estrada watches as Cena thinks about it for a second longer and despite what he really wants to do, he knows he has specific instructions as a Special Enforcer and picking a fight with the World Heavyweight Champion’s handler may not be the best of things!

Cena goes to sit down before we see Armando Estrada wave his finger around again but he accidentally pokes Cena with said finger! Cena looks down at his shirt where Estrada just poked him and looks as if he may retaliate but we see Umaga roll to the outside of the ring! Umaga shoves Estrada to the side as he locks eyes with Cena as the two men come nose to nose! Could this be a preview of WrestleMania? This staredown continues for about ten seconds until we hear Armando Estrada shouting at Umaga! Estrada is trying to get Umaga’s attention to turn around! Cena sees what is happening though as he is facing the ring and he side steps as Jeff Hardy JUMPS OFF THE TOP ROPE WITH A CROSSBODY TO THE OUTSIDE KNOCKING UMAGA OFF OF HIS FEET!

Hardy lays into Umaga throwing wild left and rights as the anger he’s built up from the attacks he’s suffered from Umaga in this match is starting to show! Armando Estrada tries to pull Hardy off of Umaga but Cena steps in and pulls Estrada away from Hardy! Estrada shouts at Cena that “‘ju can’t touch me”! Cena tells Estrada he cannot interfere and that he’s just doing his job! Estrada adjusts his fedora before he reaches back and tries to punch Cena square in the face but Cena blocks it! Cena catches the hand of Estrada twisting the hand causing Estrada to drop onto his knees shouting in pain! Cena lets go a few seconds later as his job is done in enforcing Estrada would not interfere and most likely ensuring Estrada doesn’t mess with him again!

Back to the two competitors - Jeff Hardy is back on his feet as he looks to have maybe tweaked his ankle on his landing of the Crossbody! So not only has Hardy suffered a zoned in attack on his neck and throat but he’s limping a little now (doesn’t appear to be too serious but enough to nag him throughout the duration of the match). The referee tells Hardy he needs to get back into the ring or he’s going to have to start a ten count. Hardy obliges as he gets some help to get Umaga in the ring by Umaga already having pulled himself back up and Hardy is able to drag Umaga back into the ring underneath the bottom rope.

Hardy uses the ropes to pull himself back up and as he stumbles around on his feet he heads back towards Umaga looking to gain some offense that he’s lacked in the first nine minutes of this contest. Umaga is back on his feet as Hardy goes to kick him in the sternum but Umaga catches the foot of Hardy! Hardy is bouncing around on one leg for a second before spinning around and hitting a Mule Kick on Umaga! Umaga stumbles backwards towards the ropes doing everything he can to stay on his feet but he accidentally finds himself entangled in the ropes with nowhere to go!

It immediately sets in for Hardy that he has to take advantage here and he proceeds to kick a perfect dropkick that somehow untangles Umaga and causes him to fall forwards off his feet onto the mat! Hardy grabs the legs of Umaga pulling them apart as he follows it up with a Double Leg Drop to Umaga’s groin! Umaga has the wind knocked out of him from Hardy’s leg drop as he rolls over on his stomach! Hardy rolls through getting back onto his feet as he hobbles towards Umaga looking to keep his momentum rolling! Hardy bends down pulling Umaga up off of his feet albeit struggling a little to get the big man up. Hardy tucks Umaga’s head underneath his arm and he hits the Reverse of Fate! Hardy pounces on top of Umaga knowing he needs to go for a pin fall attempt here!

One…

…Two

HARDY IS THROWN OFF OF UMAGA AND LANDS A FEW FEET AWAY FROM UMAGA! The strength of the World Heavyweight Champion to not only kick out but physically throw Hardy away several feet while on his back is rather imposing as Michael Cole and Tazz comment on how Hardy may not be able to overcome Umaga if that’s any indication of how the remainder of the match will go. Umaga powers his way back onto one knee and he looks ready to push himself back up but Hardy hits him with a chop block knocking Umaga off of his one knee he was up one and now he’s back down to both knees! Hardy grabs the head of Umaga tucking it underneath his arm before planting Umaga head first into the mat with a DDT!

Umaga is down on the mat as we see Jeff Hardy make his way to the outside of the ring. Hardy looks to be headed towards the top rope but he’s unable to get there because Armando Estrada has grabbed the leg of Hardy pulling on it to prevent Hardy from going anywhere! John Cena stands up as he makes a beeline towards Estrada and pulls Estrada away from Hardy and the ring! Estrada shouts at Cena to not touch him and he follows this up by SLAPPING CENA ACROSS THE FACE! Cena wipes his hand across his face in shock as he looks down at his hand! Cena bends down scooping Estrada up onto his shoulders and he hits the F-U ONTO THE FLOOR! Estrada pushes himself up in pain due to his back hitting the padded mat hard as Cena looks down at Estrada before taking a seat!

Hardy looks at the damage that Cena has just done by forcing Armando Estrada out of the match and he heads up top successfully reaching the top rope this time! It took a few seconds for Hardy however as his hobble is still showing. Hardy jumps off the top rope but Umaga who is back on his feet catches Hardy in mid air and throws him over his shoulders and hits a Running Samoan Drop! Unaware of his handler being down on the outside - Umaga covers Hardy in what may be it for Jeff Hardy!

One…

…Two

Thre…

A VERY LATE KICK OUT FROM JEFF HARDY! It doesn’t matter though how late it was because Hardy still managed to kick out and keep his dreams of becoming World Heavyweight Champion alive! Umaga pulls Hardy up as the limp Hardy looks as if he may be done! Umaga tosses Hardy across the ring like a ragdoll in just a show of dominance and perhaps just a little disrespect. Umaga walks to Hardy pulling him up by the air and holding him up shouting inaudibly at his opponent again! Umaga has Hardy’s head in his hands standing in the center of the ring taunting his opponent but it quickly backfires when Hardy turns the tables on Umaga and lands a Sitout Jawbreaker!

Umaga is stunned as he stumbles backwards towards the ropes once again managing to stay on his feet as he has done numerous times throughout the contest from Hardy’s offense. Umaga uses his backwards momentum and springs off the ropes and comes charging back at Hardy but Hardy hits a drop toe hold on Umaga! Umaga collides face first with the middle rope as his head whiplashes backwards from the impact. Umaga gets back onto his feet and as he turns around he’s kicked in the sternum by Jeff Hardy! Hardy grabs Umaga’s head and HITS THE TWIST OF FATE! Hardy does not pin Umaga though as he makes his way towards the corner stumbling and limping his way to what may be his first major championship in the WWE!

Hardy finally reaches the corner and pulls himself up on the turnbuckles and stands high on the top rope making sure his footing is right! Hardy ensures that Umaga has not moved and he takes flight looking for the SWANTON BOMB but Umaga rolls away! Hardy’s back lands on the ring mat as he clutches it after the failed Swanton Bomb that may have been the decisive move in him capturing the World Heavyweight Championship. Umaga rolls towards the bottom rope as he is looking around for Armando Estrada as it’s just setting in that he hasn’t seen Estrada in nearly two minutes! Umaga’s attention to the match took away from the fact he had no clue where Estrada is and now he’s concerned!

Umaga rolls to the outside of the ring having to grab his footing first and when he rolls to the outside he immediately sees Estrada laid out! Umaga’s head whips around as he looks at John Cena and once he puts two and two together he makes a beeline for Cena! Cena stands up as the referee slides to the outside of the ring needing to reinstate some order. The referee comes between Umaga and Cena literally as he gets between both men and tells Cena to take a seat once again! The referee tells Umaga that he needs to get back into the ring but Umaga doesn’t look to be done with Cena. Umaga shouts at Cena and Cena doesn’t back down as he moves closer to Umaga as the two men come nose to nose once more!

Cena tells Umaga he needs to get back into the ring and listen to the referee and whilst this is going on we see Jeff Hardy dragging himself on the mat towards the ropes! Cena takes a seat down as Umaga continues shouting at Cena! The referee finally gets Umaga to turn back around and head into the ring and when he turns around he’s hit again with another high flying move from Hardy - a PLANCHA OVER THE TOP ROPE! Hardy is putting his body on the line as he always does and giving it his all as he knocks Umaga backwards and up against the SmackDown commentary table!

Hardy brings the fight to Umaga as he crawls to Umaga and once again just lays into Umaga with right hands knowing he’s going to have to do something to try and take a true advantage in this contest! The referee tells Hardy he needs to get back into the ring or he will have to begin a ten count. Hardy obliges the referee as he grabs Umaga but not before slamming Umaga’s head repeatedly into the commentary table! Hardy then proceeds to roll Umaga under the bottom rope before sliding into the ring himself. Hardy is looking for a pin fall attempt as he thinks he may be able to put Umaga away here!

One…

…Two

T…

The latest kick out from Umaga so far in this match keeps this one alive! Hardy bends down to grab Umaga and pick him up but Umaga grabs Hardy by the throat while he’s laid out on his back! Umaga pushes his large frame back up while keeping the grip on Hardy’s throat! Umaga throws his thumb in the air looking for a Samoan Spike but Hardy breaks free when he kicks Umaga in the sternum and breaks the stranglehold that Umaga had on his throat! Hardy springs off the ropes and comes rushing back towards Hardy and he hits a Spinning Heel Kick knocking Umaga off his feet! Hardy is revived as the fans in Las Vegas are LOUD right now trying to get behind the number one contender!

Hardy springs back up and despite his ankle still bothering him he gets to Umaga in a hurry and kicks him in the sternum once more - TWIST OF FATE! Hardy looks set to go for a pin fall attempt but he wants to put Umaga away with the Swanton Bomb it appears because he heads once more to the top rope. Hardy looks down at Umaga for his second Swanton Bomb assist and this time he CONNECTS WITH THE SWANTON BOMB ONTO THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION! Hardy drags himself over using all of his strength he has remaining to reach over and throw his arm over Umaga! Las Vegas is going NUTS right now as this is going to be it! Jeff Hardy is going to be the NEW World Heavyweight Champion!

One…

…Two

Thre…

UMAGA’S FOOT IS PLACED ON THE BOTTOM ROPE BY ARMANDO ESTRADA! We haven’t seen Armando Estrada in nearly five minutes but he had the wherewithal to help his client Umaga get his foot on the rope to save his championship! Jeff Hardy sits up oblivious to Estrada interfering as he looks around the Thomas & Mack Center just stunned that he didn’t get the victory there! An emotional Hardy remains sitting up trying to plot what his next move is going to be after going through his entire moveset so far and being unsuccessful so far in capturing gold.

Hardy turns his attention to what he knows best - aerial moves - as he locks eyes with the corner ropes knowing he needs to go for a THIRD Swanton Bomb! Hardy’s ankle is zoomed in on as it’s red and appears to be a little swollen from the weight he continues to put on it! Hardy drags himself towards the corner with the ropes aiding him as he slowly makes his way up the ring ropes! Armando Estrada is back on his feet fully as he tries to get up on the ring ropes but he’s pulled back down by John Cena! Estrada pleads with Cena to not hurt him and Cena obliges him but not because he’s afraid of Estrada but because he’s just trying to keep order as the special enforcer.

Hardy was distracted from the Cena and Estrada confrontation but he resets his feet and jumps looking for a THIRD SWANTON BOMB ATTEMPT BUT THIS ONE FAILS BECAUSE UMAGA ROLLS AWAY ONCE AGAIN! Armando Estrada is shouting at Umaga to get back onto his feet and finish Hardy once and for all! Cena doesn’t take a seat as he moves towards the barricade wanting to ensure that Estrada does not try to interfere once again and he wants to be very close by to prevent that from happening!

Estrada pulls out a cigar as we see Umaga drag himself to the ropes and sit himself up against the bottom rope. Estrada waves the cigar getting Umaga’s attention before breaking the cigar in half and pointing at Hardy who is laid out on the mat. This motivates Umaga as he pushes himself back up using the ropes before making his way back to Hardy! Umaga grabs Hardy, dragging him to the bottom rope and throwing him back first up against said bottom rope! The World Heavyweight Champion looks rejuvenated as he heads to the opposing corner and lets out a loud scream before jumping up and running towards Jeff Hardy! Umaga connects with the SAMOAN WRECKING BALL ONTO HARDY!

Hardy’s head whiplashes hard against the bottom rope as he looks to be knocked out from the impact of the Samoan Wrecking Ball from Umaga. Umaga throws both of his arms out taunting Hardy before he drags Hardy up by the hair once again as he has done multiple times during the match. Umaga drags Hardy to the center of the ring, throwing his left hand into the throat of Jeff Hardy before raring back and driving his thumb into the throat of Hardy with the SAMOAN SPIKE! Hardy is out of it completely as Umaga drops down on top of Hardy throwing his body on top of the challenger.

One…

…Two

Three…

Tony Chimel
Here is your winner and STILL the World Heavyweight Champion…UMAGAAAAA!!!

Match Result: Umaga def. Jeff Hardy @ 19:50 to retain the World Heavyweight Championship

Armando Estrada slides into the ring with Umaga’s championship belt as Umaga pushes himself up and stands over the body of Jeff Hardy! Pure domination by Umaga was the theme tonight and it’s what resulted in Umaga retaining his coveted championship. Estrada points down at Hardy with his thumb sticking out telling Umaga that he wants to see another Samoan Spike! Estrada stands in the corner away from Umaga but we see Cena hit the ring! Cena slides into the ring but Armando Estrada tells Umaga to get out of the ring! Umaga does exit the ring but he stays on the ring apron watching Cena check on his opponent.

Umaga stands over the ropes staring down at Cena as Cena stares down Umaga while kneeling down checking on Jeff Hardy! Hardy is coughing up blood right now as the constant attacks to the throat finally resorted to some degree of success for Umaga! Estrada tells Umaga to hop down off the ropes as the duo make their way up the ramp as paramedics come down to the ring to check on Jeff Hardy! Cena stays with Hardy as the paramedics tend to Hardy as we hear from Michael Cole and Tazz as the show gets ready to sign off here soon.

Michael Cole
What a cowardly attack by our champion Umaga to not only attack Jeff Hardy with another Samoan Spike but also to avoid John Cena! Umaga clearly wanted nothing to do with John Cena tonight nor at WrestleMania if that is the path that Cena chooses tomorrow night on Raw!

Tazz
Whoa now Cole let’s settle down there! Umaga was simply following orders from his handler Armando Estrada who saw first hand tonight what John Cena is capable of! Estrada knows that Umaga needs to keep his eyes locked on retaining his championship at WrestleMania no matter who his opponent is. Estrada knew there was no reason to provoke Cena any further before he chooses his opponent tomorrow night!

Michael Cole
It looks more to me like Estrada is afraid that Umaga can’t defeat John Cena and he’s wanting to back down! Estrada ran his mouth a bit too much tonight and once he provoked Cena who was out here simply to serve as special enforcer he earned what he had coming to him in the form of a F-U!

Tazz
I’m not one hundred percent certain that is what Estrada was thinking but he’s clearly thinking long term and with these two men having never faced off before he doesn’t want to give Cena any advantages if that is the path he chooses. But regardless - it looks like Jeff Hardy is going to be okay as he’s being helped to the back by medics.

Michael Cole
Hardy is limping but is albeit walking and that is certainly a good sign! What a fight Jeff Hardy put up tonight and while he may not have been dominant for too long of a period he certainly brought the fight to Umaga and showed exactly why he is going to be a future World Heavyweight Champion

Tazz
For sure Cole! Jeff Hardy is unique and he proved that he has many different tricks up his sleeve and quite a wide array of an arsenal that will for sure see him on top of the company very soon! Umaga is a complete different animal than anyone else Hardy has faced to date and unfortunately for Jeff he came up a little short tonight.

Michael Cole
With that being said it’s time for us to sign off! Tune in tomorrow night on Monday Night Raw as John Cena announces whether he will face Batista or Umaga at WrestleMania! We will see you this Friday night on SmackDown! Good night everybody! ​

 

[DamageCTRL]

Don't quite have time right now for a full review of this show, but I just wanna say that as somebody who's read your work dating ALL the way back to when this thread started on another forum in a distant, previous universe, it's awesome to see this not only going but being done still with so much enthusiasm behind it and all that jazz. Serious credit to you for keeping on this path for so long.

 

[KOP]

WWE Monday Night Raw Preview
February 18, 2008 | Episode #762
Arrowhead Pond | Anaheim, CA

The Time is Now

John Cena is set to finally make the announcement on who he will be facing at WrestleMania XXIV! Cena is fresh off of appearing at the SmackDown Pay Per View - No Way Out last night where he served as special enforcer for the main event match between Umaga and Jeff Hardy for the World Heavyweight Championship. Cena got up close and personal during the match, preventing Umaga’s handler Armando Estrada from interfering by hitting an F-U on Estrada after Estrada slapped Cena in the face! Cena would later make a save for Jeff Hardy preventing him from a further beat down after Hardy suffered the loss in his first solo World Heavyweight Championship match in his career. Now, the eyes are locked in on Cena in Anaheim as he will make his decision on who he will face in his second ever WrestleMania main event in forty one days. Will Cena choose to stay on Raw and face Batista for the WWE Championship or will he defect to his SmackDown and return to his roots where he first won the WWE Championship back at WrestleMania 21?

Mr. McMahon To Kick Off Raw

Following the ground shaking announcement on last week’s Raw which saw Mr. McMahon’s return for the first time in over a month - Mr. McMahon is set to kick off Raw tonight with another HUGE announcement! How could he possibly top last week’s announcement of Triple H vs. Kurt Angle at WrestleMania for the Ultimate Control of the WWE inside of Hell in a Cell! McMahon has put his entire business and family’s future on the line against the Bischoff-Heyman Alliance but he promises to up the ante tonight on Raw! Tune in as Mr. McMahon has promised that this announcement will shock the world.

Great American Challenge Rolls On

The Great American Challenge tournament rolls along this week as the final first round matches take place with The Brian Kendrick taking on Carlito and CM Punk facing off against Elijah Burke. The Great American Challenge Tournament was announced last week by the new United States Champion, John Bradshaw Layfield, where the winner will face off against JBL at WrestleMania for said championship. Last week saw Rhyno defeat Matt Hardy and Kane defeat Kenny Dykstra to move on to the semi-finals. Who will move on to the semi-finals beginning next week and move one step closer to securing a United States Championship match on the Grandest Stage of Them All in our Nation’s Capital!

The Rivalry Renewed

Following her victory in the #1 Contender’s Falls Count Anywhere Match over former friend turned rival Victoria, Mickie James is set to cash in her championship opportunity tonight on Raw against “The Glamazon” Beth Phoenix. Mickie had an opportunity to wait until WrestleMania to take the opportunity but instead obliged to take the opportunity on Monday Night Raw! Mickie and Beth are certainly no strangers to one another having had numerous battles since both women’s arrival in the WWE in 2005 and 2006 respectively. The last time the championship changed hands was on August 19th of last year when Beth defeated Mickie at SummerSlam. Who will emerge in the next battle between these two Women’s division stalwarts and look to secure a spot at WrestleMania.

All of this plus the next inductee to join “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair and “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes in the Class of 2008 inductees into the Hall of Fame will be announced! Tune in live tonight at 9 ET/8 CT on the USA Network!

Confirmed Matches:

Beth Phoenix defends the Women’s Championship against Mickie James
Great American Challenge Match - The Brian Kendrick versus Carlito
Great American Challenge Match - CM Punk versus Elijah Burke​

 

[DTP]

There's something very warming about this period in WWE history, so you have my undivided attention for No Way Out 2008.

Immediately I can tell that you have taken a big focus on the undercard, with Chris Masters and Finlay having a Street Fight. I believe Finlay had a great run but was beginning to slow down at this stage of his career, so him losing to Masters to leave the SmackDown brand made ideal sense. Masters was just getting better as a worker when he got let go, so I'm glad he's still here. Interesting choice for an opener, but a fun brawl I'm sure.

I'm glad to see John Morrison and The Miz get pay-per-view shine so early into their reign as WWE Tag Team Champions. They were the most entertaining tag team around at this time, and would go onto greater fame with the Dirt Sheet in the coming months. Good cheap win for the champions against Cryme Tyme, using their jewellery against them.

I'm hopeful you can pull off Drew McIntyre well, considering he's so early into his run at this point, and was mostly unsuccessful in obtaining proper crowd heat.

I'm sure there was a reason to Rey Mysterio and Charlie Haas's match, but regardless it was a win for Rey en route to WrestleMania XXIV. Haas being a dickhead after the fact was to be expected, but as solid a worker he has always been, the guy is a black hole of charisma. It felt like you tried to give him an uppercard angle here with Jonathan Coachman, though.

Oh god, Simon Dean is here? Amazing.

I'm happy seeing the WWE Cruiserweight Championship still around, if for any reason to see Evan Bourne rescue the title after being booked into hell for the past few years. Bourne and Jamie Noble would have a great match.

I'm amused seeing a rookie in Dolph Ziggler fall to Edge in shy of a minute. Really funny stuff setting up the post-match business with Randy Orton and Christian. Whispers of a WrestleMania program on the horizon here, however you may set this up. It's interesting to see Christian back in WWE at this point in time.

With the rocket strapped to Gregory Helms's back, a win over Rob Van Dam was good for his reign as WWE Intercontinental Champion. The IC title was definitely not a protected title during 2008, so this works for me. I'm not sure I would have had it go sixteen minutes, but eh.

Big E in 2008 would have been tragically green. I probably would have had this go even shorter, because it felt like the emphasis was on MVP's ongoing fiasco with Shawn Michaels. Ezekiel Jackson was someone with a lot of potential, but I can't help but think of it as being a clash of styles going in there with E. This match probably would have been better served on television than pay-per-view.

Jeff Hardy and Umaga had bundles of chemistry together, and had so many strong matches in 2007. Umaga retaining the World Heavyweight Championship was the right idea, though John Cena as the special referee truly played a curious aspect in this match. Him destroying Cena leads me to believe that's the direction for WrestleMania XXIV, but we'll soon be able to tell.

Overall, the halfway point between the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania set the stage for the final weeks of build for the biggest show of the year. There were high points, but not every match was crucial to the show's quality, I don't think. Not bad.

 

[KOP]

Monday Night Raw | Episode #762
Monday February 18, 2008
Honda Center | Anaheim, California

***TO BE LOVED***

A very HUGE night for Monday Night Raw on the Road to WrestleMania is set to get underway with us emanating tonight live from the home of WrestleMania 2000. Beth Phoenix will defend the Women’s Championship against Mickie James tonight along with the continuation of the first round of the Great American Challenge Tournament. Plus John Cena will announce who he will face at WrestleMania later on tonight! JR talks about the SHOCKING return of the McMahon Family last week on Raw and how it has been confirmed that Triple H has been reinstated and that he will face Kurt Angle at WrestleMania inside Hell in a Cell with Ultimate Control of the WWE on the line!

***NO CHANCE***

And without wasting any time tonight - Mr. McMahon is here and is making his way down to the ring to kick off Monday Night Raw. Power walk and all! The Chairman of the Board seems to be in a jovial mood tonight but how long will that realistically last? Once he gets into the ring he’s greeted by Lilian Garcia who welcomes him and hands him a microphone. He thanks Lilian and then immediately goes into his diatribe - “WELCOME TO MONDAY NIGHT RAW!”

Cheers emanate from the Honda Center as Mr. McMahon thanks everyone for coming out tonight and he reminds us that we are now only 41 days away from WrestleMania! “And what a WrestleMania it is going to be! We’re going to find out who the winner of the Royal Rumble - John Cena is going to face tonight! Mr. Kennedy will face off against the Hardcore Legend Mick Foley in a Last Man Standing Match! But perhaps the match that I’m selfishly looking forward to the most is the HELL IN A CELL MATCH! TRIPLE H VERSUS KURT ANGLE FOR THE ULTIMATE CONTROL OF THE WWE!”

Mr. McMahon pauses for a second as Anaheim is very vocal in their support for Mr. McMahon by starting a “Welcome Back” chant. Mr. McMahon thanks the fans and says he’s glad to be back but as he just mentioned he’s got some VERY IMPORTANT business to take care of and that pertains to the Hell in a Cell Match. He runs us down on the history of how we’ve gotten to this point with the mystery attacks over the summer on superstars such as The Undertaker, Kane, Rob Van Dam amongst just some of the names. He had no idea who or how many people were behind this attack. All he knew was that there was some serious unrest in the locker room and tensions were at an all time high! He knew something had to be done and he knew exactly what he had to do!

***I’M BACK***

“Don’t fool these people Vince…you didn’t have a plan!” Out walks Eric Bischoff and his business partner Paul Heyman as the two stay a safe distance away by staying on the stage. “You didn’t have any idea on what to do because you didn’t know that not just one but TWO very creative minds were behind the ultimate plan to take down the McMahon Empire! But I’m not out here to rehash all of that! We’ve given our reasoning out SO many times. But what I am out here for is to talk about WrestleMania!”

Mr. McMahon goes to speak and Bischoff shuts him down saying that we’re going to do things MY WAY! “You came out last week on MY SHOW and disrupted me before I could even have a chance to talk about WrestleMania and you’ve ruined my plans! You’ve disrupted the entire blueprint on what the Heyman-Bischoff Alliance had in plan for WrestleMania! But one thing you did do Vince…you did something very ballsy that I can honestly say that not even I would have done! You put your ultimate power…your ultimate control of a company that you built from the ground up on the line and for that I must say I am impressed. I am impressed that you are that damn stupid to believe that Triple H can defeat Kurt Angle to prevent your family from having to step down!”

Jeers can be heard as Paul Heyman tells the fans to be quiet and to not interrupt Eric Bischoff or him ever again! “We may be in Anaheim tonight but this is not DisneyLand! This is reality and reality is a WWE that is ran by Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman come March 30th!"

“SHUT UP!”

Mr. McMahon has had enough of keeping his own mouth shut and he finally tells Bischoff and Heyman to just shut their mouths. “I didn’t come here tonight for you two. I’m here tonight because I want this contest to be fair and square regardless of what you’ve done to my family and I over the last several months. But mostly because I do not trust you two sons of bitches one bit! I don’t trust you to not pay off a referee and for that reason I’ve decided that there is only ONE person who is capable of being the special referee. A person that HATES not only myself but every single member of my family and he certainly hates you two as well! So without further ado let me introduce the man who will be the special guest referee at WrestleMania 24 for the Hell in a Cell Match…

“STONE COLD STEVE AUSTIN!”

***GLASS SHATTERS***

NO WAY! Is Mr. McMahon seriously leaving the ultimate decision of his entire family’s future up to his longtime rival Stone Cold Steve Austin? It sure does look like it! JR reminds us of the very long history between Eric Bischoff and Stone Cold though as well and says that he can’t think of a referee better than Stone Cold who will certainly not be partial and will do his job correctly! Stone Cold comes out riding on his ATV and does a few laps around the ring before receiving a few beers and standing on top of his four wheeler before bashing his Steve-weisers together for a quick drink. Stone Cold doesn’t appear to have much to say tonight but the fans in Anaheim are THRILLED to see a WWE legend! He hops off the seat and gets back at the wheel and as he prepares to exit he looks and laughs at Bischoff who is IRATE that he too has to trust Stone Cold to not screw him over! Stone Cold gets off his ATV and comes face to face with Bischoff as we head to commercial break.

Match #1 | Women’s Championship
Beth Phoenix © vs. Mickie James

Our opening contest of the evening is the much awaited contest between two longtime rivals who have battled for the last two years over the Women’s Championship - Mickie James and the current champion Beth Phoenix! Mickie earned this opportunity at the Royal Rumble where she defeated Victoria in the Falls Count Anywhere Match. We get a good opening match between Beth and Mickie who initially fight to take an early advantage but the champion ends up overpowering Mickie and begins to work over the challenger. Beth uses her sheer power to dominate Mickie and she gets a near fall with a Slingshot Suplex! “The Glamazon” turns her attention now to trying to put away Mickie for good!

Beth taunts Mickie as she military presses the challenger high in the air before dropping her down with the Military Press Drop! Beth steps over Mickie wiping her hands showing the ultimate sign of disrespect towards her opponent. Beth gets down on the mat and squeezes Mickie’s face telling her she’s done with her for good! Beth gives Mickie a slap before pulling Mickie backup and hitting a Pendulum Backbreaker! Beth follows this up now by locking in a Cloverleaf on Mickie! Mickie pushes her body upwards knowing she’s going to have to get to the ropes to keep this contest going!

The fans rally behind Mickie as she drops down onto the mat looking as if she is going to give up! Mickie pushes herself back up as she inches towards the rope! Beth tries to pull Mickie back in towards the center of the ring but Mickie reaches out and grabs the bottom rope! The referee tells Beth she has to break the Cloverleaf hold to which of course Beth milks it and holds it until four. Phoenix has a few words with the referee before she goes to grab Mickie but Mickie pulls Beth in throwing her face first into the ropes! With both women down the referee begins a ten count which finally both women respond and get back onto their feet. A struggle ensues as a battle of right hands being thrown ensues before Mickie musters up the strength and blocks one from Beth! Mickie hits a quick Snap DDT and when Beth gets up she hits Beth with the MICK KICK! Mickie falls on top of Beth covering her for the victory but NO! Beth kicks out at two and three fourths!

Mickie looks a little stunned that Beth was able to kick out of the Mick Kick but she knows what Beth is capable of due to their long standing rivalry. Mickie pulls herself up not pouting over the near fall but she’s pulled in with a cradle from Beth Phoenix! Mickie kicks out of the cradle at two and when she hops back onto her feet she’s reeled in by the Women’s Champion! Beth throws Mickie’s arms behind her back looking to lift Mickie up for the Glam Slam but Mickie breaks free with one arm and elbows Beth in the face! An angered Beth charges at Mickie but Mickie ducks underneath the clothesline from Beth! When Beth comes charging back at Mickie, she’s caught with a kick to the sternum and then Mickie hits the MICKIE-DT! Mickie jumps on top of Beth as the referee counts and we have a NEW WOMEN’S CHAMPION!!!

Match Result: Mickie James def. Beth Phoenix to become the NEW Women’s Champion

Mickie James is the Women’s Champion for the third time in her career! Mickie is handed the championship belt from the referee as Mickie is beyond excited right now! She’s put away her long time rival and shocked many people ending Beth’s six month reign! Mickie holds the belt high before heading around the ring celebrating with the fans in what is a very big way to kick off Monday Night Raw! JR and King congratulate Mickie James as Mickie heads to the back jubilant and thrilled to be Women’s Champion once more!

Post match we see a black limousine arrive in the backstage parking lot and IT’S TRIPLE H! Jim Ross is going wild saying “The Game is HERE!” Triple H steps out of the limousine and adjusts his suit before we see a hand extend out and we see Triple H’s father-in-law Vince McMahon extending his hand to Triple H. The two shake hands as Vince tells him they need to talk in his office. We head to commercial break as the two make their way to Vince’s office!

The NEW Women’s Champion Mickie James is greeted backstage by her friend Melina! Melina hugs Mickie and congratulates her for finally recapturing gold! “I know what you’ve been through the past few months with Victoria and I couldn’t be prouder of you!” Mickie thanks Melina and tells her she greatly appreciates her friend’s support! Melina asks Mickie if she can hold the title - something she’s never done. Mickie finds this perhaps a little odd but gives in to Melina’s request as Melina holds the title for a few seconds looking it up and down before placing it back over the shoulder of the champion! Melina tells Mickie that the gold looks good on her and that she’s proud Raw has a Women’s Champion they can be proud of! Mickie lets Melina know she has to go right now but she will catch up with her soon! Mickie walks off as Melina continues to smile as she watches the champion walk away.

Before our next match takes place we get a vignette of the United States Champion John Bradshaw Layfield standing in front of a green screen of the US Capitol Building. JBL says as the host of the first ever “Great American Challenge Tournament” he has been greatly pleased with how the competition has fared so far. “While I consider these eight men to be great combatants - none measure up to being as great of an American as I am, your current reigning United States Champion! And that is why I am taking my United States Championship on tour to all of the major tourist sites of this GREAT country! I would have visited Anaheim but there’s nothing to see there! So that’s why I’m here at the home of WrestleMania 24 - our GREAT Nation’s Capital! And speaking of great - if I know one thing - it’s GREATNESS! That’s exactly what this tournament will culminate in when I defeat the winner at WrestleMania and cement my legacy as the greatest United States Champion of all time!” JBL does a Texas two step dance before saying “God Bless America” and tipping his cap as we head into the arena.

Match #2 | Great American Challenge Match
The Brian Kendrick vs. Carlito w/ Primo

Our first Great American Challenge match of the night is up now as The Brian Kendrick goes one on one with Carlito! The winner of this match is set to move on and face Rhyno next week in the semi-finals. The Brian Kendrick who has been dodging competition (mostly his former partner CM Punk) has an opportunity to earn his first ever singles match at WrestleMania but first he has to get past Carlito. The veteran Carlito dominates the match early on and looks to try and put Kendrick away following a failed leaping Crossbody from Kendrick which was met with a perfect dropkick from Carlito for a two count.

Primo rallies his brother on from ringside encouraging him to try and close out the match but the match takes a turn in The Brian Kendrick’s favor when he’s able to sneak a thumb to the eye of Carlito. Carlito is flailing his arms unable to see thanks to the thumb to the eye from The Brian Kendrick’s cheating tactics which help him immensely as he hits Carlito with a Corner Backflip Kick! Carlito stumbles out of the corner with his head having hit the turnbuckle in a whiplash manner and he’s easy pickings unfortunately for The Brian Kendrick who grabs him and hits Sliced Bread #2 (or occasionally known as The Kendrick) to earn what many consider an upset victory tonight!

Match Result: The Brian Kendrick def. Carlito

Rhyno is sitting backstage in his locker room having just finished watching the GAC match between The Brian Kendrick and Carlito and now he knows his opponent for next week will be The Brian Kendrick. A knock on the door is heard as in walks Rhyno’s opponent in last week’s Great American Challenge match - Matt Hardy! Rhyno stands up looking confused as to what Hardy is here for and the two have an awkward tension moment. Hardy tells Rhyno he’s not here to start anything - he’s here to thank Rhyno! Rhyno looks confused but Hardy tells him that he appreciates him coming in to save him from a beatdown from those two “punks” (i.e. Ted DiBiase & Cody Rhodes). Rhyno tells Matt that he saw what they did to him two weeks ago on Raw when they picked a fight with him backstage and insulted him by saying he’s not even “the best Hardy in the WWE”. Rhyno says he doesn’t allow loudmouths like DiBiase and Rhodes who don’t even respect their own legendary fathers show disrespect to veterans in the locker room. Hardy tells Rhyno thanks again before telling him to go and take care of business next week against The Brian Kendrick.

Matt Hardy leaves the locker room as Rhyno is seen sitting down thinking about what Hardy just told him and all of a sudden we hear a loud noise from outside the locker room! Rhyno hurries out to find PRICELESS HAVE BLINDSIDED MATT HARDY! DiBiase and Rhodes are stomping away at Hardy as Rhyno hurries out and tries to get to DiBiase and Rhodes but they’ve run off from the scene before Rhyno can get to them! Rhyno bends down checking on Matt Hardy asking him if he’s good as he calls out for a medic to come and take a look at Matt! JR and The King discuss the cowardly tactics of the World Tag Team Champions and how they continue to blatantly disrespect the veterans who paved the way for them including their own flesh and blood including 2008 WWE Hall of Fame Inductee and father of Cody Rhodes - “The American Dream'' Dusty Rhodes!

Match #3 | Tag Team Match
La Résistance (Sylvain Grenier & René Duprée) vs. Val Venis & Steven Richards

Since making their return to the WWE after a more than one year layoff - the duo of Sylvan Grenier and René Duprée have been working hard to reestablish their credibility in the tag team division. Duprée and Grenier tonight have a match against actual WWE superstars - veterans of the WWE in Val Venis and Steven Richards. Richards and Venis give Grenier and Duprée more of a fight than the two local jobbers did two weeks ago but it’s just not enough in the end. Val Venis looked as if he was going to be able to put it away for his team with the Big Package but it’s broken up by Grenier who saves his partner Duprée! Val Venis and Grenier would exchange words for a few seconds which would allow Dupree to recover and pull Venis in for the Bonsoir giving La’ Resistance the victory!

Match Result: La Résistance (Sylvain Grenier & René Duprée) def. Val Venis & Steven Richards

The Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff & Paul Heyman are seen in Bischoff’s office with Bischoff sitting down with his hands over his head and Heyman pacing from side to side. Heyman is stunned at the fact that Mr. McMahon has seriously allowed Stone Cold Steve Austin to be the referee for the Ultimate Control Match at WrestleMania! Heyman tells Bischoff that Austin cannot be trusted to which Bischoff nods his head in agreement but says that Austin hates EVERYONE! This may actually work to his advantage and he reminds Heyman that while Mr. McMahon may have the final ultimate call on what happens at WrestleMania - “I have the final call for what happens here on Monday Night Raw. So I’ve arranged for a match for Triple H tonight - a little “warm up competition” if you will for WrestleMania. Come in guys!”

In walks Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch who are wielding steel chairs which greatly confuses Heyman but Bischoff says “Cade and Murdoch are going to handle our Triple H issue tonight in the main event where they will be allowed to compete under No Disqualification Rules in a Handicap Match against Triple H. However, Triple H will be required to compete under regular rules and if he tries to get himself disqualified or counted out he will be fined a HEFTY amount of money and the match will restart! So gentleman - please do whatever you must to ensure that Triple H is not one hundred percent going into WrestleMania and if you do so we may have a reward for you!” Cade & Murdoch nod at Bischoff and Heyman as they walk out of the office with steel chairs as Bischoff smiles at Heyman as we head to commercials.

**********




WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008
“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair, “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes & Mae Young

**********

When we return from commercial break we see Chris Jericho standing in the parking lot looking around frantically. Todd Grisham walks up to Jericho to find out what exactly Jericho is doing. Jericho pretends he doesn’t hear Grisham as Grisham asks Jericho once again “who or what are you looking for out here Chris?” Just as he awkwardly did in his sit down interview with Jim Ross weeks ago and then Maria the following week - Jericho says nothing as the camera zooms in on his face with his eyes locked in on something albeit what we don’t know. We hear from the commentary team with “Good Ole JR” saying he believes that Chris Jericho has absolutely lost it! King agrees with JR saying that the silence he has shown since attacking The Undertaker in the WWE Championship match is alarming and maybe the fact he has yet to receive an answer from his challenge he laid down to Undertaker for WrestleMania last week is driving him crazy.

Match #4 | Great American Challenge Tournament Match
CM Punk vs. Elijah Burke w/ Theodore Long

It’s time to determine who will be the one moving on to face Kane in the semi-finals next week on Raw! Burke is fresh off a victory last week against the man who lost earlier tonight in the GAC - Carlito. Burke and Punk go at it for around eight minutes putting on a great athletic contest that showcases the bright future of the WWE! Burke catches Punk off guard with a 4-Up and nearly gets a pin fall but Punk is able to kick out. Some blood is trickling out of the nose of Punk from the hard uppercuts which happens to enrage the Straight Edge Superstar. Burke looks ready to try and finish Punk off with the Elijah Experience but Punk fights back and hits Burke with a series of punches to the gut and finishes it off with a Roundhouse Kick!

Punk stands over Burke briefly with Teddy Long growing concerned on the outside. Long hops onto the apron trying to distract Punk but he ends up eating a punch from Punk knocking the longtime veteran of the WWE off the apron! Punk stands over the ropes telling Teddy to mind his own business and when he turns around Burke reels him into his arms. Burke tries for the Elijah Experience once more but Punk headbutts Burke and throws him onto his shoulders before hitting the GTS! Punk falls on top of Burke hooking the leg and he secures the victory moving on to face Kane in next week’s Great American Challenge Semifinals!

Match Result: CM Punk def. Elijah Burke

**********

WrestleMania Rewind | WrestleMania XII
Sunday March 31, 1996
Arrowhead Pond | Anaheim, California

A fitting selection for tonight’s WrestleMania Rewind as it’s in the same building that Raw emanates from tonight. The WrestleMania debuts of Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H took place at this WrestleMania with Austin defeating Savio Vega and Triple H losing to The Ultimate Warrior in his return to the WWF. But perhaps what WrestleMania XII is mostly known for is the legendary Iron Man Match between Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart for the WWF Championship! Following no falls in the first sixty minutes - WWF President Gorilla Monsoon announced that there must be a winner and it led to Shawn Michaels hitting not one but TWO Sweet Chin Music securing HBK his first ever WWF Championship.

41 Days Until WrestleMania XXIV

**********

As the WrestleMania Rewind goes off the screen we come back to Mr. Kennedy slowly and sarcastically clapping for the clip we just saw. Mr. Kennedy says it’s pretty neat that tonight Raw is RIGHT HERE in the very same building where Shawn Michaels won his first WWF Championship. However, the clip that should have been shown was the WrestleMania that took place four years later as well in Anaheim. “The night of April 1, 2000 saw WrestleMania 2000 emanate once again from the Arrowhead Pond. However, this time your favorite “Hardcore Legend” Mick Foley was competing in the main event and not that I need to spoil it for you all because as you all know - HE LOST! That’s not truly surprising though because Mick Foley is a LOSER! Foley has paraded around for years as a good guy when in reality he’s a terrible human being. Yet somehow I’m the only person who’s seen through the charades! I know who the REAL Mick Foley is! And I’m going to expose him at WrestleMania once and for all as a “Hardcore Fraud” when I am the Last Man Standing”.

La Résistance are walking backstage before they walk past Maryse and cat call her! Maryse looks disgusted at the two and begins to shout at them in French. Grenier and Duprée both loudly shout in French back at her before Duprée tells her that “it’s a shame such a beautiful woman is an absolute wench”. Maryse slaps Duprée across the face as Grenier tries to get into her face but in walks The Colon’s - Primo & Carlito! Carlito tells La Résistance that even though he had been preoccupied with the Great American Challenge tournament, he didn’t forget what they did when La Résistance attacked them on Raw a few weeks ago. “Carlito says next week you two French punks versus The Colon’s and you…you beauty can join us at ringside if you’d like.” Carlito winks at Maryse as she extends her hand to Carlito and he gives it a kiss. Carlito looks at La Résistance with their failed attempt at trying to pursue Maryse and Carlito says “Now that’s cool!” before he motions for his brother Primo and the two walk off.

When we return from the break we see clips from No Way Out last night when Randy Orton attacked Edge following his victory against Dolph Ziggler. Orton looked ready to hit Edge with a Punt Kick to the head following the surprise attack but he was thwarted by the return of CHRISTIAN - the man whom he had punted in the head at The Royal Rumble! We see more clips of the brawls between Edge and Randy Orton over the last month and it finishes off with a still shot showing that Randy Orton will return LIVE next week to Monday Night Raw!

Match #5 | Handicap Match
Cade & Murdoch Are Allowed to Compete Under NO DQ Rules; Triple H is barred from doing so
Triple H vs. Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch

This match goes about how you would think it would with the duo of Cade and Murdoch receiving the upper hand early on in the match due to the unfair advantage they have not only in it being 2 on 1 but also a match where they can use weapons but Triple H can’t. Cade and Murdoch came out wielding the same steel chairs from earlier in the night and they used them to their advantage hitting Triple H in the gut with one chair before Murdoch hit Triple H across the back with his chair after Triple H bent over from the first chair shot! Cade shouts at Murdoch to pick Triple H up and to hold him up for him! Cade taunts Triple H, boxing him repeatedly in the chest before he goes to rare back and hit Triple H in the nose but Triple H ducks and Cade hits Murdoch square in the face instead!

Murdoch is stunned as Cade tells him it was an accident! Triple H grabs Cade and throws him right into Murdoch causing Murdoch to go stumbling backwards through the ropes and onto the outside of the ring through the middle rope. Triple H looks at the steel chair as he grabs the chair and lifts it up looking ready to hit Cade with it but the referee warns him that he cannot use the chair or he will be DQ’d and fined. Triple H throws the chair down in anger as he goes to grab Cade once more but Murdoch grabs Triple H by the feet, sweeping him off his feet and pulls him to the outside of the ring.

Murdoch tries to hit Triple H with a series of punches but Triple H fights him off and drives Murdoch back first into the barricade at ringside! Triple H grabs Murdoch and throws him over the barricade into the time keeper’s table area as he looks ready to head back into the ring but Lance Cade hits him with a steel chair! Triple H doubles over from the chair shot as Cade grabs Triple H and leads him back towards the ring and throws him back into the ring. Cade checks on his partner Murdoch as he helps him back up before telling Murdoch they need to end this match now!

Cade looks underneath the ring and pulls out A SLEDGEHAMMER! Cade points at Murdoch telling him to get into the ring and rough Triple H up more so they can take him out with the sledgehammer. Murdoch does as his tag partner asks as he rolls into the ring and corners Triple H propping him up against the bottom turnbuckle before stomping away at him! Cade is back in the ring now as he tells Murdoch to pull Triple H up! Murdoch has Triple H up now as he holds him up with Cade ready to charge at him with the sledgehammer but just as it happened earlier - Triple H breaks free and CADE HITS MURDOCH WITH THE SLEDGEHAMMER ON ACCIDENT! Triple H spins Cade around kicking him in the gut causing Cade to lose the sledgehammer before hitting the Pedigree and putting away the duo tonight ruining Bischoff’s plans to take him out.

Match Result: Triple H def. Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch

An irate Eric Bischoff is shown backstage watching a monitor as he puts his hands over his head in disgust at what he just witnessed. Bischoff pulls his phone out and makes a call as the camera goes back into the arena focusing on Triple H who defied the odds and won the Handicap Match tonight.

John Cena is seen heading towards the arena - WE WILL HEAR WHO HE FACES AT WRESTLEMANIA…NEXT!!!

***MY TIME IS NOW***

It is finally time! Twenty two days ago John Cena won the 2008 Royal Rumble to earn a championship match of his choosing and TONIGHT he will finally reveal who he will face at WrestleMania 24! Cena comes out pumped up as ever as he’s been mulling over who he ultimately wants to face in the main event of WrestleMania. Cena hurries down the ramp after giving a salute to the cameraman before sliding into the ring and playing to the crowd as usual. He’s handed a mic by Lilian Garcia and the crowd is buzzing in anticipation of wanting to know who Cena is going to face. Cena keeps the crowd riled up by saying “What’s up Anaheim?”

Cena says he’s had a lot weighing on his mind since he won the Royal Rumble three weeks ago in Madison Square Garden. He’s thought long and hard about whether he wants to stay on Raw and challenge Batista for the WWE Championship or if he wants to go back to his roots on SmackDown and face off against Umaga for the World Heavyweight Championship. He talks about last night at No Way Out where he was the Special Enforcer for the main event match between Umaga and Jeff Hardy for the World Heavyweight Championship. Cena says he saw Umaga’s destruction up close and personally and quite frankly he’s impressed. There’s no one quite like Umaga on the WWE roster today and he saw that first hand when Umaga dismantled Jeff Hardy.

“So with that being said I’m announcing that I will be facing…”

***VIRTUAL VOODOO***

SmackDown’s World Heavyweight Champion Umaga and Armando Estrada interruptCena with Estrada saying “Meester Cena…I just wanted to come out here and make sure that ‘ju understand that if ‘ju select Umaga you are signing your own death wish. ‘Ju saw first hand this past Sunday at No Way Out what my SAMOAN BULLDOZER is capable of and the damage he caused to Jeff Hardy…haha!!!" Estrada finishes chuckling as he looks at Umaga and says to Cena that “if ‘ju really want to face Umaga then more power to you Meester Cena but it will be the final time ‘ju ever compete inside of a WWE ring.”

Cena tells Armando Estrada “to do all of these fans in Anaheim a favor and just shut the hell up”. Cena says he’s heard this for the last three weeks from Armando Estrada. He tells Estrada that he’s very much aware of what Umaga is capable of because he sat ringside as the Special Enforcer on Sunday. “Maybe you’re forgetting though since I dropped you on your head with an F-U on the concrete floor. So maybe I should go a little easy on you huh?” Estrada goes to speak again but Cena cuts him off saying “this is my time on MY SHOW!”

This cues us in a little on what Cena may be thinking as Cena says “I’ve made my decision and I’m happy to tell the WWE universe that I will be facing BATISTA for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania on March 30!”

The crowd erupts as Cena has announced he will stay on Raw and fight for the WWE Championship. Umaga and Estrada exit the stage after the announcement quietly as Cena says that this is a match he’s had his eyes on for quite some time. “Nearly three years ago at WrestleMania 21 - two men emerged as the new faces of the WWE. Batista and JOHN CENA!” Cena recounts that night in Hollywood where Batista defeated Triple H for the World Heavyweight Championship and Cena defeated JBL to win the WWE Championship. Cena says Batista and him have been linked together forever for becoming the new faces of the company on that night and winning their first world championships in the same night.

“But we’ve never faced one another one on one…”

***I WALK ALONE***

The WWE Champion - “The Animal” Batista has arrived as he’s dressed to the nines with Rolex, cufflinks, and WWE Championship belt over his shoulder. Batista walks towards the ring eyeing Cena on his entire way down. Batista gets into the ring and after receiving a microphone looks Cena up and down. Batista tells Cena that he’s making a mistake and that he should have chosen Umaga instead. The champion tells Cena that he’s not worried about their “historical connection” or that Cena views himself as a face of the company because “you’re just not that relevant anymore John”. Batista reminds Cena he has held the WWE Championship only ONCE in his entire career while Batista is a three time champion now. “You keep telling yourself you’re the face of the WWE when you haven’t accomplished anything in TWO YEARS.”

Cena interrupts Batista telling him he’s heard all of this for the last two years and he doesn’t need to hear it again because Cena has LIVED it. He’s lived the last two plus years disappointing himself but most of all these fans who pay to come see him! He’s fallen on hard times but things began to look up for him when he won the Royal Rumble. “Sunday March 30 in YOUR HOMETOWN will be the night that John Cena finally overcomes the challenges I’ve had thrown at me for the last two years. It will be the night where the road to redemption finally comes to an end with me standing in the ring with MY WWE Championship high above my head!”

Batista lowers his glasses as he looks at Cena as if he’s serious right now as he can’t believe that Cena believes the crap that he is saying. While several cheers are coming in from around the crowd Batista shuts them down as he tells the fans to enjoy the next month “because I’m putting an end to this fairy tale at WrestleMania. Everyone loves a good redemption story…EXCEPT ME! I’m not here to play pretend and act as if John Cena has any chance at WrestleMania. I’m rooted in reality and the reality is that John Cena…

Cena interrupts Batista which draws some cheers! “The reality is that you’ve had your time on Monday Night Raw. You’ve carried the show but your time is up…MY TIME IS NOW!”

Cena’s trademark words from his theme song seem to piss off Batista as the two come nose to nose for the VERY first time as Raw comes to a close with both men staring one another down intently with the WWE Championship draped over the shoulder of “The Animal”.

**********

Quick Match Results:

Mickie James def. Beth Phoenix to become the NEW Women’s Champion
The Brian Kendrick def. Carlito in the Great American Challenge Tournament
La Résistance def. Val Venis & Steven Richards
CM Punk def. Elijah Burke in the Great American Challenge Tournament
Triple H def. Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch in a Handicap Match

**********

WrestleMania XXIV | Sunday March 30, 2008
FedEx Field | Washington D.C.
Official Theme Songs: "Light it Up" by Rev Theory & "Good Life" by Kanye West

WWE Championship | FIRST TIME EVER
Batista (c) vs. John Cena

Hell in a Cell Match | For Ultimate Control of the WWE
Triple H w/ The McMahon’s vs. Kurt Angle w/ Paul Heyman & Eric Bischoff
w/ Stone Cold Steve Austin as Special Guest Referee

United States Championship
John Bradshaw Layfield (c) vs. Kane OR CM Punk OR Rhyno OR The Brian Kendrick

Last Man Standing Match
Mr. Kennedy vs. Mick Foley

World Tag Team Championships
Priceless (c's) vs. Winners of Tag Team Turmoil on 3/3/08

Cruiserweight Championship
Evan Bourne (c) vs. Winner of Cruiserweight Open Challenge on 2/22/08

PLUS...

WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008
“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair, “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes & Mae Young[/url]​

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[KOP]

WWE Friday Night SmackDown | Episode #444
Friday February 22, 2008
San Diego Sports Arena | San Diego, California

We open up Friday Night SmackDown with a recap video of No Way Out showcasing some still images of the show mostly focusing on of course the main event match between Umaga and Jeff Hardy for the World Heavyweight Championship. A clip of Umaga defeating Hardy with the Samoan Spike is shown next followed by John Cena who served as special enforcer for the main event checking on Jeff Hardy. Next we get clips of the champions who all retained - Evan Bourne, Gregory Helms, and John Morrison & The Miz celebrating their victories before we see a disappointing shot of MVP after Big E lost to Ezekiel Jackson. The next image is Charlie Haas threatening to hold the show hostage after his loss to Rey Mysterio. Following that is Chris Masters’ deadly Con-Chair-To to the head of Finlay which was propped up on the steel ring steps. Up next is Edge pinning Dolph Ziggler in under one minute before being attacked by Randy Orton post match and then the return of CHRISTIAN to save the day! Christian tending to his brother Edge is the final image as we head into our normal opening video package.

***RISE UP***

Michael Cole & Tazz welcome us to Friday Night SmackDown emanating to you tonight from the hometown of Rey Mysterio - San Diego, California! Cole tells us we are in for quite a show tonight as Shelton Benjamin is set to go one on one with Drew McIntyre plus the man who lost in under a minute to Edge - Dolph Ziggler is set to compete against “The World’s Strongest Man” Mark Henry! There will also be a Cruiserweight Open Challenge where ANY cruiserweight is eligible to compete and the winner will face Evan Bourne at WrestleMania! PLUS - The SmackDown intern - Ms. Terrell is set to make a big announcement tonight as well but speaking of announcements - let’s send it to the ring where SmackDown General Manager Jonathan Coachman is standing by with a MAJOR announcement regarding WrestleMania!

***HARD HITTIN***

We hear a few notes of the SmackDown GM’s entrance music as it fades away and we see The Coach in the center of the ring with an easel set up with the WrestleMania 24 logo behind him! Coach thanks the fans for coming out to SmackDown tonight here in SAN DIEGO! This gets some cheap pops from the fans as he talks about how much of a success No Way Out was this past Sunday! “We do have a bit of a problem though! As you all are most likely aware by now this past Monday night on Raw, John Cena announced he would stay on Raw to challenge Batista for the WWE Championship! The problem lies within now that we are only thirty seven days away from WrestleMania and as of right now we do not have a match set for the World Heavyweight Championship! So I had a discussion with Ms. Terell the past several days on what we wanted to plan for WrestleMania and I have come up with the idea that we will…

***VIRTUAL VOODOO***

“Estude me! Estude me! Estude me!”

Armando Estrada - the handler of the World Heavyweight Champion Umaga is out with Umaga following behind him with Estrada carrying the gold! “Meester Coachman….any plans that ‘ju have planned for WrestleMania should have been cleared through ME first! ‘Ju understand that right?” Estrada and Umaga head towards the ring as they are drowned out with boos as Estrada tries to speak again but Coachman interrupts him by saying “With all due respect Mr. Estrada - I am the General Manager of Friday Night SmackDown and it is my ultimate responsibility to ensure that the fans receive a high caliber WrestleMania worthy match come March 30th! So as I was trying to say before I was very rudely interrupted by you…

Estrada and Umaga are now in the ring as Estrada interrupts once more with “I guess ‘ju aren’t understanding me Meester Coachman! ‘Ju see Umaga has earned the right to call his own shots around here due to the pure decimation he has caused to every single person who steps into the ring with him! The GM interrupts Estrada telling him that he certainly understands that Umaga has caused a lot of damage - so much that Jeff Hardy is not here tonight unfortunately as a result of their match at No Way Out! He also reminds Estrada that Shawn Michaels has yet to return due to the heinous post match attack at the Royal Rumble which draws a chuckle from Armando Estrada. “But one thing you will not be doing is calling your own shots because that is my job! As I said before it is my job to ensure that we have ourselves a high quality WrestleManiamain event and that is why…

Estrada interrupts the General Manager AGAIN which is driving Coachman to turn red in anger. “Mr. Coachman, ‘ju are making a VERY big mistake for the sake…” Coachman intervenes and asks for Estrada’s microphone to be cut off which it is. Estrada is livid as he taps the microphone but Coachman tells him he will not be interrupted again!

“So as I was saying I’ve arranged for what I believe is the most fair way to announce a new number one contender for Umaga’s World Heavyweight Championship. So TONIGHT we are going to have ourselves a Fatal Five Way with “Captain Charisma” CHRISTIAN, MVP, “The Rated R Superstar” EDGE, “The Masterpiece” CHRIS MASTERS…AND THE RETURNING “HEART BREAK KID” SHAWN MICHAELS!!!

Estrada looks like he has seen a ghost at the mention of Shawn Michaels - the man his client put out of action for over three weeks at the Royal Rumble! Estrada rips the mic out of Coachman’s hands and closes out the segment saying that he feels “sorry for the poor soul that has to step into the ring at WrestleMania with the SAMOOOOOOAN BULLDOOOOOZERRRRR...UMAAAAAAGAAAAAA!!!” Umaga throws out both of his arms as he lets out a loud yell as we see Estrada hold up the gold behind Umaga. Coachman exits the ring as Umaga poses for a few more seconds as we head off to a break.

The Cruiserweight Champion Evan Bourne joins Michael Cole & Tazz as they congratulate him on retaining his championship this past Sunday at No Way Out. Cole says coming up now is the ten minute Cruiserweight Open where there can be a series of pinfall or submission victories. The winner of the match will be the cruiserweight that recorded the last pinfall or submission and will move on to face Evan Bourne at WrestleMania.

Match #1 | #1 Contender’s Ten Minute Cruiserweight Open
Winner Faces Evan Bourne at WrestleMania XXIV
Billy Kidman vs. Funaki vs. Jimmy Yang vs. Juventud Guerrera vs. Kid Kash vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Psicosis vs. Shannon Moore vs. Super Crazy vs. Tajiri

It’s time to crown a new number one contender as we have our first Cruiserweight Open since WrestleMania XX. Any superstar on the WWE roster is eligible to compete and we have a wide variety of talent competing tonight including Juventud Guerrera rejoining The Mexicools after a nearly one and a half year sabbatical. Ten of the top cruiserweights in the WWE are doing battle with the opportunity to face Evan Bourne at WrestleMania. Speaking of Juventud - he receives the first pin fall of the match by surprising his Mexicool partner - Super Crazy with a roll up to give him the advantage and essentially put him in as the placeholder number one contender.

Juventud doesn’t keep the advantage for long though because at the two and a half minute mark we see the man formerly known as Jimmy Wang Yang (now known as Jimmy Yang) catch Juventud with a picturesque Moonsault to take over the advantage. Tajiri is working hard to help his protege Jimmy Yang keep the advantage but a missed Buzzsaw Kick attempt to Shannon Moore inadvertently hits Yang, dropping him! Moore pushes Tajiri out of the ring before pinning Yang and gaining the advantage!

We are now at the halfway mark with only five minutes remaining and Shannon Moore looking to survive the match. Cole reminds us that the “placeholder” number one contender does not have to be the one pinned or submitted to lose their “number one contendership” and we see that happen when Billy Kidman hits a Shooting Star Press onto Funaki to gain the advantage. Kidman is rolling around in pain from the Shooting Star Press and he’s easy pickings for Kid Kash who hits him with the Dead Level to earn a pin fall.

We have a little under four minutes remaining in the match now with Kid Kash eyeing Evan Bourne and motioning around his waist that the championship is coming home with him. The Mexicools duo of Super Crazy and Psicosis decide to work together on Kofi Kingston but Kingston thwarts the attempt by hitting both men with a flying springboard clothesline! Kingston looks for the Boom Drop but Juventud Guerrera flies off the ropes hitting Kingston with a running Headscissors Takedown! Kingston finds himself in the corner and he gets propped on the ropes and locked into the Tarantula from Tajiri! Tajiri looks ready to capitalize and pin Kingston after being forced to break the Tarantula but he’s knocked off the ring apron by Juventud!

Approximately two minutes are remaining as Kid Kash has had the advantage for over two minutes and looks to maintain that advantage for the final two minutes of the contest. Kash though shockingly sees his advantage disappear when Shannon Moore picks up another pin fall by hitting the Halo onto Juventud! Kash sneaks up behind Moore tossing him out of the ring and he pins Juventud himself to regain the advantage! Kash finds himself in the corner surveying the action as we see nearly half of the competitors are down in the ring! Kash hits a series of baseball slide dropkicks first to Funaki, then Moore, then Juventud! Kofi Kingston runs at Kash but Kash lowers his body and dumps Kofi over the top rope! The Mexicools duo of Psicosis and Super Crazy run over and dump Kash out of the ring! Psicosis and Super Crazy both then ascend to the top ropes and hit simultaneous Moonsaults onto their opponents who are back onto their feet!

We have one minute remaining as we see the newly turned heel Jimmy Yang look down at Billy Kidman before heading to the top rope! Yang’s mentor Tajiri jumps onto the apron waving his arms telling Yang to wait! Yang gets a surprise from Kidman who runs up the ropes and goes to grab Yang but Tajiri comes out of nowhere and tries to pull Kidman off of Yang but Kidman is not budging! Tajiri tries to turn Kidman around and goes to spit the Green Mist into Kidman’s face but Kidman ducks and the green mist goes into Yang’s eyes! Yang is wincing in pain as Tajiri looks on at the mistake he just made but he pays for it dearly as Kidman jumps off the middle ropes with driving his knees into the shoulders of Tajiri pushing him onto the mat! Kidman looks at the clock and sees twenty seconds remaining as he jumps on the top rope and hits a second Shooting Star Press! The referee counts to three as Billy Kidman has re-earned the advantage!

Kidman now has to just survive for fifteen seconds as he lies on the mat assuredly knowing that no one will pin him but WAIT…CHAVO GUERRERO JUMPS OVER THE BARRICADE AND IMMEDIATELY HEADS TO THE TOP ROPE! Guerrero leaps off the top rope with his trademark Frog Splash landing onto the back of Billy Kidman! Guerrero flips Kidman over and with just six seconds remaining now the referee counts to three and Chavo Guerrero has won the Cruiserweight Open as the clock runs down to zero.

Match Result: Chavo Guerrero wins the Ten Minute Cruiserweight Open

Raw’s Chavo Guerrero has stunned the fans in San Diego! Even the Cruiserweight Champion Evan Bourne is stunned at what just happened. Michael Cole says he has no idea how Guerrero was even eligible to compete in this match to which Tazz rebuts that Jonathan Coachman specifically said that ANY cruiserweight signed to the WWE roster is eligible and Chavo meets both of those criteria! Cole says it is still not right that Chavo was able to sneak in at the final seconds after having not competed throughout the course of the match. Tazz tells Cole that the veteran savviness of Chavo Guerrero to wait until the final seconds to enter the match is exactly why he is one of the most decorated Cruiserweights of all time and now is headed to WrestleMania!

After having his hand raised Guerrero rolls to the outside of the ring slapping his chest and doing the famous Guerrero shimmy as he comes face to face with the champion! Guerrero tells Bourne “I’ll see you at WrestleMania…kid” before patting the Cruiserweight Championship on Bourne’s shoulder. Guerrero walks off and heads up the ramp as he mocks fans at ringside and pats his chest as he backs up the ramp looking back down at Bourne.

MVP is pacing backstage in his private locker room clearly upset at what happened at No Way Out with not only Big E losing to Ezekiel Jackson but someone playing Shawn Michaels music to cause the distraction. We hear a knock at the locker room as Big E walks in stone faced as MVP begins to berate him. MVP asks Big E how he could lose to Ezekiel Jackson and embarrass him like that! MVP doesn’t give Big E a chance to talk and he says “before you even try to say anything - I don’t want to hear you even speak a word!” MVP reminds Big E how much money he is paying Big E to be his bodyguard and he’s already starting to question that decision. MVP tells Big E that his services will not be needed tonight for his Fatal 5 Way Match and that he has the night off! MVP then dismisses Big E as he sits down on his locker mentally preparing himself for the main event tonight.

Match #2 | Singles Match
Shelton Benjamin vs. Drew McIntyre

Our second match of the night is built out of the post match attack from Drew McIntyre onto Shelton Benjamin last week. McIntyre stated that he’s tired of superstars coming to SmackDown and receiving immediate “handouts” while he continues to be forgotten about. McIntyre dominates the match early against Benjamin to the surprise of some fans as McIntyre has been on a losing streak for quite a while now. McIntyre gets a series of near pin falls with a Fallaway Body Slam. McIntyre’s anger begins to show as he’s working on trying to defeat SmackDown’s newester superstar in Benjamin but as has been the case for quite a while now he’s struggling to close out matches. McIntyre goes to pull in Benjamin for the Future Shock DDT but following a smooth reversal - Benjamin hits McIntyre with Paydirt out of nowhere! Benjamin jumps on top of McIntyre scoring the pin fall victory!

Match Result: Shelton Benjamin def. Drew McIntyre

Benjamin has his hand raised on the outside of the ring as he stumbles up the ramp celebrating the win with the fans! McIntyre is irate as he pounds the mat with his fists before kicking the turnbuckle in anger. McIntyre’s losing ways continue as he falls victim to another wrestler.

“The Rated R Superstar” Edge bumps backstage into his brother Christian and asks him how he feels being back after a three week sabbatical! Christian tells Edge it’s been a long three weeks but he’s glad to be back on the road. He certainly hasn’t forgotten what Randy Orton did to him and he knows that Edge is going to take care of Orton while he (Christian) goes and wins the World Heavyweight Championship. Edge seems a little surprised at his brother’s comments but he tells Christian thanks for sacrificing himself at The Royal Rumble and taking the Punt Kick from Randy Orton for him. Edge tells his brother though that tonight is strictly about business and business means that only one of them can go on to main event WrestleMania! Christian says he feels honored to be the one to represent the family at WrestleMania to which Edge asks him why he is so certain it’s going to be him. Christian tries to lighten the mood by telling Edge “may the best man win” as he reaches his hand out to which Edge reaches out and shakes Christian’s hand despite some clear tension in the air with their words exchange.

We are shown clips of the ending of the WWE Tag Team Championship Match at No Way Out that saw John Morrison & The Miz escape with a victory after using dirty tactics and JTG’s chain to secure the win. A pre-recorded segment shows John Morrison & The Miz on the beach in San Diego getting some sun and enjoying the weather of the beautiful San Diego. Miz and Morrison both talk about how after a hard earned victory they deserved a night off! “But fear not! The Greatest Tag Team of the Twenty-First Century returns NEXT WEEK for an Open Challenge Match! Any tag team is welcome to step into the ring and lose just like those criminals Cryme Tyme did on Sunday! Morrison and Miz both stand up and do jumping poses throwing their fists into the air as a still shot of the scene is shown with the graphic showing Open Challenge - NEXT WEEK!

We return from the commercial break and see the SmackDown intern Ms. Terrell in the ring with several ladders surrounding her. Ms. Terell says it’s been a great show so far and right now she has a VERY BIG announcement that not only affects WrestleMania but our main event later tonight! Ms. Terrell says she spoke with Mr. Coachman a few weeks back on an idea that she had due to the plethora of young talent that is currently on SmackDown! “After some negotiations with Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff and due to the uncertain future of Monday Night Raw due to the McMahon versus Heyman/Bischoff Alliance feud; I am pleased to announce that through some tenuous negotiations that this year’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match will be a SMACKDOWN EXCLUSIVE MATCH!”

Some fans cheer loudly as Ms. Terrell says that this will be the BIGGEST Money in the Bank Ladder Match to ever take place at WrestleMania! She says she’s always looking for innovative ways to create lasting memories for the WWE Universe and with the blessing of SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman she is pleased to announce that TEN SmackDown superstars will compete in this year’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match to determine who will earn a championship match at ANY time of their own choosing between WrestleMania 24 and WrestleMania 25! Ms. Terrell says the roster is so stacked right now that this year only will feature ten superstars compared to the usual eight.

Ms. Terrell says she doesn’t want to take too much longer because there is still so much action to come here tonight on SmackDown but she does tell the fans that coming up NEXT will be the first qualifying match for the Money in the Bank Ladder Match with two former rivals dating back several years going head to head as Jamie Noble goes one on one with SAN DIEGO’S OWN - REY MYSTERIO!!! Ms. Terell exits the ring as we are sent over to ringside to the commentary duo of Michael Cole and Tazz!

The roof nearly blows off of the San Diego Sports Center as Michael Cole and Tazz gleefully discuss the Money in the Bank Ladder Match and how Rey Mysterio will face Jamie Noble NEXT to determine our first competitor! Tazz says that Rey Mysterio receiving the first opportunity to qualify and in his hometown nevertheless shows great respect to how he wrongfully lost his Money in the Bank briefcase last year before he had an opportunity to cash it in. Cole says Mysterio will look to right that wrong and join nine other superstars to be named at WrestleMania 24 in our nation’s capital in the first ever SmackDown exclusive Money in the Bank Ladder Match!

Ms. Terrell is seen walking backstage following her big announcement before she’s stopped by the Intercontinental Champion Gregory Helms! “What was that all about?” says Helms to Ms. Terrell to which she replies with “What? My big Money in the Bank announcement?” Helms nods his head before telling Ms. Terrell that as the current Intercontinental Champion and the longest reigning champion on SmackDown that he should receive a little more respect and should have been automatically entered into the Money in the Bank Ladder Match! “After all, I did beat the golden boy Rob Van Dam at No Way Out this past Sunday in case you were unaware.” Ms. Terrell politely tells Helms that she does recognize he is the longest current reigning champion on SmackDown and acknowledges that he did beat Rob Van Dam (albeit having to cheat to do so which Helms denies) but he will have to qualify like everyone else! Helms tries to get in a word to Ms. Terrell again but her cell phone rings and she politely dismisses herself before saying she needs to take this call. Helms is left standing there stunned and makes a comment to himself about the “lack of respect” he just received from her answering a call in front of him and walking away. We head to commercial break with Helms shaking his head in anger as he looks down at the Intercontinental Championship around his waist.

Match #3 | Money in the Bank Qualifying Match
Rey Mysterio vs. Jamie Noble

San Diego’s own Rey Mysterio is now set to compete against Jamie Noble in a call back to their feud nearly six years ago when Mysterio first arrived in the WWE. Mysterio and Noble get about eight minutes to do what they do best and it is showcase the smaller talents on SmackDow! Noble is coming off of the loss to Evan Bourne at No Way Out while Mysterio pulled off a victory against Charlie Haas giving Mysterio some big momentum in tonight’s match. Mysterio is able to pull off the victory in front of his hometown after Noble misses a Spinning Backbreaker and Mysterio counters it with a headscissors throwing Noble into the middle rope! Mysterio calls it out and hits the 619 IN THE 619! Mysterio leaps on the top rope and hits a Diving Leg Drop before hooking the leg of Jamie Noble and becoming the first superstar to qualify for Money in the Bank at WrestleMania!

Match Result: Rey Mysterio def. Jamie Noble to qualify for the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania 24

Bobby Lashley is seen in the General Manager’s office asking Mr. Coachman why he doesn’t have a match tonight? Lashley tells the GM that he was disappointed first on being left off of No Way Out and now tonight as well? Lashley reminds Coach that they had a talk last week about how if Coachman doesn’t give him an opportunity he’s just going to have to take his own opportunities. Lashley then reminds Coachman he was promised big opportunities and that is why Lashley signed with SmackDown upon his return. Coachman says he fully agrees that Lashley deserves an opportunity and he will give him a match RIGHT NOW! Coachman tells him it can be a warm up for next week because he is going to give Lashley a BIG opportunity to qualify for the Money in the Bank Ladder Match next week! Lashley thanks Coachman telling him he’s sorry that they initially got off on the wrong foot but he promises that bringing him back to SmackDown will be the smartest decision he’s ever made. Lashley exits the office and heads towards the arena as he will be in action - NEXT!

Match #4 | Singles Match
Bobby Lashley vs. Colin Delaney

Lashley gets a warm up test against Colin Delaney - yes that Colin Delaney - who is making his debut as a non-contracted superstar filling in as a jobber tonight. Lashley absolutely decimates the undersized Delaney knocking him down with a big Shoulder Block literally causing Delaney to flip backwards. Lashley military presses Delaney dropping him in the ring with the Military Press Slam! Lashley quickly finishes off Delaney with the Dominator before confidently pinning Delaney in the center of the ring to earn a victory heading into his Money in the Bank Qualifying Match next week!

Match Result: Bobby Lashley def. Colin Delaney

Dolph Ziggler is backstage in the training room speaking with a doctor about how he’s not cleared to compete tonight. The doctor says he never told Ziggler that and he’s perfectly able to compete in his match against Mark Henry tonight! Ziggler tells the doctor that he needs some help here! He’s mentally suffering from the humiliation that he’s endured since his match at No Way Out! People are mocking him calling him the “one minute man” and it’s mentally taking a toll on him! Ziggler pleads with the doctor saying that he is not in the right mental state of mind to compete but he can certainly face Mark Henry next week. Ziggler pleads with the doctor again asking if there is anything he can do to which the doctor is about to answer but in walks MARK HENRY! Henry tells Ziggler that he sure does have bad luck with being overheard when he doesn’t want to be! Henry tells Ziggler he was headed to the ring when he passed by and heard Ziggler pleading to get out of the match! Henry tells Ziggler he wanted to run his mouth and attack innocent superstars backstage at No Way Out so now he can step into the ring and handle things like a man TONIGHT! Henry tells Ziggler he will see him out there to which Ziggler pleads with the doctor again but the doctor tells Ziggler that there is nothing he can do! Mark Henry versus Dolph Ziggler is coming up - NEXT!

Match #5 | Singles Match
Dolph Ziggler vs. Mark Henry

Mark Henry is waiting in the ring for Dolph Ziggler to arrive and when Ziggler’s music hits he doesn’t appear. Ziggler pops up on the titantron as he tells Henry that he’s suddenly ill and that he’s unable to compete tonight. Ziggler says he can give Henry a rain check though and maybe they can wrestle another time? Ziggler disappears off the titantron as Mark Henry is enraged that Ziggler managed to avoid him.

Match Result: Dolph Ziggler vs. Mark Henry never officially got underway

Mark Henry prepares to exit the arena after he was ready to compete in his match against Dolph Ziggler but before Henry can make it backstage he’s ATTACKED BY TEST AND MIKE KNOX! Matt Striker leads the duo out as Cole and Tazz remind us we just were introduced to Mike Knox last week. Test and Knox both stomp away at Henry before Striker tells Knox to pick Henry up and hold him up for Test! Knox does as he’s told and Test runs and hits a Big Boot onto “The World’s Strongest Man” sending him crashing backwards into the stage screen! Several lights flash causing the screen to go out in the section where Henry just collided into as a few sparks fly. Cole & Tazz are greatly confused wondering what in the hell this is about! Striker has his duo of Test and Knox standing over Mark Henry as we see medics run out to check on Henry. Test and Knox leave on their own with Striker telling the duo their “homework is done now” as we head backstage. Cole says though that he has just received word that next week Test goes one on one with Mark Henry in a Money in the Bank Qualifying Match. Tazz and Cole quickly realize that this is certainly why Test & Knox are out here attacking Henry in an effort to try and soften him up for next week.

Medics are now frantically running to an area backstage near roll up doors where we see BIG E standing over SHAWN MICHAELS! Michaels is down on the ground and wincing in pain before Big E pulls him up and throws him into the roll up doors! Michaels body collapses back onto the ground as security and agents come running over to separate Big E from Shawn Michaels so no further damage can be done! SmackDown GM Jonathan Coachman comes hurrying into the scene as he was notified of this attack and he tells Big E to “GET OUT!” It’s perhaps a little too late as the damage is done now though and kicking out Big E has taken out Shawn Michaels! Coachman asks the medics if Shawn Michaels will be able to compete to which they immediately tell him there is no way! Coachman looks irate but knows the show must go on so it looks as if it will be a Fatal 4 Way now instead of the Fatal 5 Way.

Michael Cole and Tazz discuss the huge dynamic the main event match just took as it will no longer be a Fatal 5 Way Match but rather a Fatal 4 Way Match. Cole says he knows MVP put Big E up to this to which Tazz says he’s not so sure about that! Tazz reminds us earlier in the night that MVP was clearly irate with Big E due to him losing to Ezekiel Jackson at No Way Out so Tazz thinks that Big E may have taken “matters into his own hands” and went into business for himself. Cole agrees that is certainly a possibility but he truly thinks that MVP knew Shawn Michaels was at a disadvantage coming back from his brutal attack at the Royal Rumble and that he wanted to milk everything he could out of Michaels to prevent him from competing tonight or to compete at a disadvantage! Tazz says no matter what this will not be the last we see of Shawn Michaels and that he will be coming back with a vengeance after his return was cut short in less than a night!

Match #6 | #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way Match
Winner Faces Umaga for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania
Christian vs. MVP vs. Edge vs. Chris Masters

In what was supposed to be a Fatal 5 Way and not a Fatal 4 Way - four of SmackDown’s top superstars do battle to see who will face Umaga at WrestleMania! Christian and Edge have some tension amongst one another from their comments earlier in the night which MVP and Chris Masters use to their advantage early on to both team together against the brothers duo. Masters hits a Polish Hammer on Edge nearly knocking the breath out of him before trying for a pin fall count but MVP breaks it up! We get the prototypical “no longer being able to work together” spot where Masters pushes MVP asking him what that was about! MVP follows this up with a clothesline knocking Masters out of the equation for now!

MVP looks ready to size up Christian for a Drive By Kick but EDGE SPEARS MVP INTO THE MAT! Edge jumps on top of MVP looking to head to WrestleMania but Christian breaks it up! We now see the tension from earlier in the night return as the two brothers come face to face with Christian telling Edge that he’s had his opportunities - “it’s my time to main event WrestleMania now”. Christian shoves Edge and after a brief pause Edge shoves Christian! The brothers go at it before Masters hits a lariat onto Christian knocking Christian into Edge and the two land in a corner. Masters pulls Christian out of the corner locking in the MASTERLOCK! Chris Masters waves Christian around relentlessly as the fans in San Diego are realizing that Chris Masters may shock the world and head on to WrestleMania!

Masters has Christian fading but Masters realizes that Edge is back onto his feet! Masters tries to get Christian to fade or tap out but Captain Charisma is just not giving up! Masters finally has to break free of the submission maneuver as Edge comes charging at him! Edge hits Masters with a SPEAR! Edge goes to jump on top of Chris Masters to head to his third straight WrestleMania main event but right on cue - RANDY ORTON - appears once more as he has been doing for weeks now attacking Edge during his matches! ORTON HITS AN RKO AS EDGE RISES BACK ONTO HIS FEET! Orton looks down at Christian and grabs his arm in an ultimate “fuck you” move to Edge as he throws Christian’s arm over Edge! The referee drops down and counts to three as Christian is headed to WrestleMania albeit at the expense of his brother!

Match Result: Christian def. Edge, MVP, & Chris Masters to become the new #1 Contender

Randy Orton is beaming from ear to ear as he’s truly done it now! Following weeks of attacks on Edge, Orton has done the unthinkable and helped out Edge’s brother Christian to defeat Edge and head to WrestleMania! Orton stands at the top of the ramp as we see Christian rise up onto his feet and have his hand raised. Christian is having to be helped up due to the Masterlock taking a toll on him and it looks as if he is fully unaware of the fact that he pinned Edge to win the match! Orton and Christian lock eyes as we get a cutaway to the backstage area where Armando Estrada is smoking a cigar and watching the monitor closely as we know now what our World Heavyweight Championship match at WrestleMania will be! Michael Cole and Tazz thank the fans for tuning in tonight as the Road to WrestleMania has certainly hit a big speed bump with what all has occurred tonight! We will see you next week on SmackDown!

**********

WrestleMania XXIV | Sunday March 30, 2008
FedEx Field | Washington D.C.
Official Theme Songs: "Light it Up" by Rev Theory & "Good Life" by Kanye West

WWE Championship | FIRST TIME EVER
Batista (c) vs. John Cena

World Heavyweight Championship
Umaga © w/ Armando Estrada vs. Christian

Hell in a Cell Match | For Ultimate Control of the WWE
Triple H w/ The McMahon’s vs. Kurt Angle w/ Paul Heyman & Eric Bischoff
w/ Stone Cold Steve Austin as Special Guest Referee

Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Winner Earns a WWE or WHC Match Opportunity Anytime Before WM XXV
Rey Mysterio vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ???
vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ???

United States Championship
John Bradshaw Layfield (c) vs. Kane OR CM Punk OR Rhyno OR The Brian Kendrick

Last Man Standing Match
Mr. Kennedy vs. Mick Foley

World Tag Team Championships
Priceless (c's) vs. Winners of Tag Team Turmoil on 3/3/08

Cruiserweight Championship
Evan Bourne (c) vs. Chavo Guerrero

PLUS...

WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008
“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair, “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes & Mae Young​