BATTLES

Kurt Angle storms down to the ring to kick off the show. Angle says that if it weren’t for Shawn Michaels that he’d be WWE champion right now. Angle says that he wants Michaels tonight, and promises to make HBK tap out, just like he did at WrestleMania. HBK comes out and says that he didn’t cost Angle the WWE title, he merely leveled the playing field. Michaels says that he merely stopped Angle from cheating and that Cena beat him fair and square. And since HBK has been waiting for a chance to even the score with Angle, just like Cena did last week, HBK is going to beat Angle cleanly tonight.

Segment Rating: 89%

Paul London vs Akio

Chavo Guererro once again wonders out to watch the match, scouting the champion Paul London. This distraction allows Akio to take control late in the match, but London soon recovers and takes the upper hand after hitting an enziguri. London hits a running SSP before dragging Akio into the corner and going up top to score with the 450 splash which is enough to secure the victory. London celebrates with his title before turning his attention to Chavo who is still at the top of the stage.

Winner: Paul London via pinfall @ 8:42

Overall Rating: 78%

Crowd Reaction: 56%

Match Quality: 100%

For the second week in a row we see a video package hyping the upcoming debut of 2 Cold Scorpio. The footage shows several highlights of Scorpio’s career in WWF/WCW/ECW and finishes with a series of clips of him hitting the 450 splash. Text appears on the screen saying that Scorpio will make his SmackDown! debut next Thursday night before fading out.

Segment Rating: 71%

Big Show vs Luther Reigns

Slow plodding brawl in the early going. Late in the match Reigns looks for a running big boot but Show dodges out of the way. Reigns runs at Show only to receive a side slam which gets a two count. Show then stalks Reigns before wrapping his hand around his opponent’s neck and hitting a thunderous Chokeslam. Show makes the cover and gets the three count for the win.

Winner: Big Show via pinfall @ 3:45

Overall Rating: 72%

Crowd Reaction: 76%

Match Quality: 66%

Michael Cole and Tazz have just got word of some activity in the backstage area. We cross to the back where officials are gathering around Booker T who appears to have just been assaulted. As officials get to Booker, a man in the distance jumps in a car and speeds off into the distance. Booker is just barely conscious as officials call for paramedics immediately. Cole and Tazz reflect on what just happened in a sombre tone, explaining the situation once again for those who may have just joined us.

Segment Rating: 91%

John Cena vs Carlito

Carlito is competitive in the early going in a back and forth match with neither man being able to consolidate a longstanding advantage. As the match wears on however Cena starts to take control after the five knuckle shuffle and a running bulldog. Cena goes on to hoist Carlito up for the FU but Carlito squirms out of it .. only for Cena to attempt the move again, and this time successfully hit the FU for the victory.

Winner: John Cena via pinfall @ 7:49

Overall Rating: 82%

Crowd Reaction: 83%

Match Quality: 82%

Following his win, Cena takes a mike from ringside. Cena says that some people have said that his WWE title match may have ended differently if it weren’t for Shawn Michaels getting involved. Cena says that he wants to prove that he is the WWE champion for a reason and offers an open challenge to anybody who wants a shot at his WWE title for next week on SmackDown! After a short wait the lights darken and the music of The Undertaker hits. Undertaker slowly walks out on to the stage and takes a mike. Taker says that Cena’s challenge has been accepted, before raising his hands and bringing them down, setting off pyro from all four turnbuckles surrounding Cena. Taker and Cena stare each other down as we cross to a commercial.

Segment Rating: 88%

Eddie Guererro vs Rey Mysterio

The began feeling each other out in the early going. Several chain wrestling sequences kick off the match with each man trying to get the upper hand. The match starts to increase in intensity when suddenly Rosey and his former 3MW partner Jamal hit the ring and begin assaulting the tag team champions! The ref calls for the bell and rules the bout a no-contest as Rosey and Jamal destroy Guererro and Mysterio with a series of double team and power moves. Officials come down to the ring and try to hold the big men back, but to little avail. Rosey gets on the mike and announces that he is SmackDown!’s newest draftee and his old partner Jamal is back. He says they are now to be known as “The Islanders” and promise to go through everyone in the SmackDown! locker-room.

Winner: No Contest via interference @ 6:23

Overall Rating: 84%

Crowd Reaction: 86%

Match Quality: 81%

We see Matt Hardy in the back before he bumps into Teddy Long. Long congratulates Hardy on his impressive debut last week. He goes on by saying that a win over the US champion deserves an opportunity. With that in mind, Long informs Hardy that he will face Orlando Jordan for the United States championship next week on SmackDown! much to the delight of the former Team Xtreme member.

Segment Rating: 74%

Kurt Angle vs Shawn Michaels

An aggressive Angle gets on the offensive early on, taking HBK down with a series of amateur style moves. Michaels manages to match Angle in the early going however, delivering a series of counters to match Angle for much of the mat wrestling sequences. The match slowly disintegrates into a brawl as it wears on. Late in the match Angle hits the Angle Slam and makes a cover, but HBK kicks out after two. Angle then pulls down his straps and puts Michaels in the Ankle Lock. Michaels struggles to reach the ropes for some time before eventually reversing out of it and kicking Angle out of the hold. Nip-up from HBK, then Angle runs at him, only to receive a backdrop. HBK starts tuning up the band before hitting a picture perfect Sweet Chin Music. Michaels makes the cover and gets the three count for the win, evening the score with Angle from WrestleMania. The show goes off the air with Michaels celebrating in the ring as a furious Angle heads to the back.

Winner: Shawn Michaels via pinfall @ 15:24

Overall Rating: 91%

Crowd Reaction: 94%

Match Quality: 85%

Show Stats

Overall Rating: 81

TV Rating: 6.16

Attendance: 8,029

Rain or no rain, we (I say we as I am Australian) were just plain fucking shite and in no way whatsoever deserved to win that match. The rain was frustrating though cause I was looking forward to seeing the bottom order have a slog at that chase. England and New Zealand really lifted towards the end of the series, it was great. The matches were actually interesting and watchable. I was disappointed with Australia losing of course, but it's good to see some actual competition.

SmackDown! Preview

April 14th, 2005

Shawn Michaels became the newest member of the SmackDown! roster last Thursday night, getting involved in the WWE title match between John Cena and Kurt Angle. What will Kurt Angle have to say after Shawn Michaels got involved and potentially cost Angle the WWE title? It looks like HBK might receive a very hostile welcoming gift from the Olympic champion this Thursday night.

John Cena is still the WWE champion, arguably thanks to some interference from Shawn Michaels. This week on SmackDown! the champ will compete against old rival Carlito in a non-title match. Can Carlito score a major upset over the WWE champion?

There has been some tension between the WWE Tag Team champions in recent weeks. Will the issue be put to rest after Eddie Guererro looks to put an end to his “jynx” and score a victory over Rey Mysterio? We hope to find out when the two square off on SmackDown!

Booker T received a mysterious note last week that seemed to upset the former 5-time WCW champion. But what was it all about? Will more be revealed this Thursday night?

All this and more coming to you this Thursday night on SmackDown! only on UPN!

William Regal & Tajiri vs The Justice League

The two fan favourite tag teams slug it out to get RAW underway. The crowd is roughly 60/40 in favour of the tag champs. Late in the match Hurricane hits the Eye of the Hurricane on Regal. He turns and gives Rosey the thumbs up. Rosey returns the thumbs up signal before suddenly kicking his partner in the gut and dropping him with a Samoan drop! Rosey then goes up top and leaps off with a devastating frog splash on Hurricane to the jeers of the crowd before leaving to the back. Regal then reluctantly makes the cover, giving the champs a jaded victory.

Winners: William Regal & Tajiri via pinfall @ 6:24

Overall Rating: 81%

Match Quality: 77%

Crowd Reaction: 76%

Regal and Tajiri head up the ramp on their way to the back when suddenly The Dudley Boyz step through the curtain and attack the champs with steel chairs! D-Von throws Regal off of the side of the stage before the duo turn their attention to Tajiri. The Dudleyz then Powerbomb Tajiri off of the stage, sending him crashing through a table! The Dudleyz pose with the tag team titles before throwing the belts over their fallen victims as paramedics attend Regal and Tajiri.

Segment Rating: 66%

Chris Jericho makes his way down to the ring to host the Hi-Lite Reel with this week’s guest Charlie Haas. Jericho asks Haas why he attacked his former friend and tag team partner Shelton Benjamin and more importantly, why he stole the Intercontinental title. Haas says that being drafted to RAW is the biggest opportunity of his career; especially considering the IC champion is Shelton Benjamin. Haas says that he knows Benjamin better than anybody and will use that knowledge to take away the IC title. As for the belt, Haas says that if Benjamin wants it back, then he’ll have to come take it himself in a title match at Backlash.

Segment Rating: 84%

Batista vs Gene Snitzky

This battle of the big men sees Batista dominate from the opening bell. Snitzky breaks Batista’s offence with an eye gauge and hits a few moves before Batista comes back with a huge clothesline coming off of the ropes. Batista then hits a spine buster and begins stalking Snitzky for the Batista-bomb. Boot to the gut and Batista levels Snitzky with the Bomb before making the cover for the three count.

Winner: Batista via pinfall @ 4:53

Overall Rating: 78%

Crowd Reaction: 79%

Match Quality: 78%

Triple H is seen in the backstage area when approached by Todd Grisham. Grisham says that Batista has been looking incredibly dominant as of late and questions how confident Triple H can be going in to their World title rematch at Backlash. The question clearly angers “The Game” who aggressively reminds Grisham that Batista is only where he is because of himself and Ric Flair. He says that without them Batista is nothing but a lot of muscle and no brains. Tripper says that Batista is merely the flavour of the month, but the month is nearly over, and after Backlash the REAL world champion will take back his title and “The Animal” will be shot dead.

Segment Rating: 91%

Shelton Benjamin vs Maven

A quick start from Benjamin is countered with a low blow from Maven. Maven begins to control the match, putting together a series of offensive manoeuvres and eventually locking up the champ in a headlock. Benjamin struggles for a good while before starting to elbow his way out. He comes off of the ropes and takes Maven down with a clothesline, then comes back with a spinning wheel kick. Benjamin stalks Maven and then hits the T-Bone suplex for the victory. After the match Benjamin gets on the mike and accepts Charlie Haas’ challenge for an IC title match at Backlash.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin via pinfall @ 5:47

Overall Rating: 71%

Crowd Reaction: 73%

Match Quality: 67%

Edge makes his way to the ring with the MITB briefcase and begins complaining about the fact that two pathetic, washed up old men are in the night’s main event while “Mr MITB himself” hasn’t even got a match. Edge turns his attention to his match with Hulk Hogan at Backlash. Edge claims that Hogan has made a habit of coming back to WWE every now and then whenever he feels like another big pay check and steals the attention away from the young stars like Edge. Edge promises that Hogan wont be coming back after their match at Backlash, as Edge is going to leave Hogan in such a mess that he’ll be lucky to be able to get out of a wheelchair, let alone show up on RAW. Edge finishes up by announcing that he’s decided that he will join the announce team for some special colour commentary for the evening’s main event.

Segment Rating: 87%

Rhyno vs Rene Dupree

Eric Bischoff announces the newest RAW superstar Rene Dupree. Dupree briefly gets on the mike before the match and arrogantly claimed to be the most talented superstar on RAW, and in the whole WWE before Rhyno comes out and puts an end to Dupree’s speech. Late in the match Dupree hits a back-breaker and stops to execute his trademark “French Tickler.” Dupree spends a lot of time posing and taunting the fans, but doesn’t realize that Rhyno has made it to his feet. Dupree turns around and walks right into a Gore from Rhyno, who goes on to make the cover for the three count.

Winner: Rhyno via pinfall @ 7:25

Overall Rating: 74%

Crowd Reaction: 75%

Match Quality: 73%

John Bradshaw Layfield makes his way to the ring and begins bragging about his victory over Shawn Michaels last week. JBL says that luckily enough for “The Heart Break Kid” he got moved over to SmackDown! and will therefore avoid another ass kicking at the hands of JBL. He goes on to continue attacking the RAW roster, proclaiming that there is nobody in the back that is worthy of being in the same ring with “The Wrestling God,” let alone with the ability to beat him. JBL’s rant is suddenly interrupted by pyro as Kane steps onto the stage! JBL looks terrified as Kane slowly walks down the runway. Kane slides into the ring and JBL begins putting the boots to him, but Kane makes it to his feet and starts delivering some thundering right hands. Kane takes JBL down with a clothesline before setting up for the Chokeslam. JBL quickly squirms out of it however and bails out of the ring, backing up the ramp and avoiding any more of Kane.

Segment Rating: 81%

Hollywood Hulk Hogan vs Ric Flair

Edge joins the announce booth and begins trash talking Hogan and Flair, predominantly about their age, throughout the match. Flair is accompanied to the ring by Triple H. Late in the match Flair is hitting Hogan with a series of his trademark chops when Hogan starts “Hulking up.” Hogan points at Flair and waves his finger before knocking Flair down with a series of right hands. Triple H slides in to the ring and is met with a big boot immediately. Flair whips Hogan but Hogan reverses and hits the big boot. Hogan scores with the legdrop and gets the three count for the win. Hogan starts celebrating after the match but suddenly Edge leaves the announcers desk and attacks Hogan from behind. Flair and Triple H join in attacking the Hulkster and it’s now a three on one ambush. The trio continue putting the boots to Hogan until suddenly Batista comes sprinting down to the ring for the save, causing Edge, Triple H and Ric Flair to bail out of the ring and head to the back. Batista attends to Hogan we have a stareoff between the good guys and bad guys as RAW goes off the air.

Winner: Hollywood Hulk Hogan via pinfall @ 10:03

Overall Rating: 84%

Crowd Reaction: 93%

Match Quality: 66%

Show Stats

Overall Rating: 80

TV Rating: 6.04

Attendance: 8,036

Monday Night RAW Preview

April 11th, 2005

RAW comes to you LIVE this Monday night from Moline, Illinois with a huge main event. Arguably the two biggest stars of the 80s and unquestionably two of the greatest legends in WWE history will square off when Ric Flair faces Hollywood Hulk Hogan. One has to wonder however, will Edge use this as an opportunity to get an advantage heading in to his encounter with “The Immortal One” in just under two weeks time at Backlash?

The World Heavyweight champion Batista is on a roll at the moment and it looks as if there might not be anybody able to stop him. Gene Snitzky will be out to put a spike in Batista’s momentum Monday night as he looks to score an upset win over the World champion. And of course, with Batista scheduled to defend the title against Triple H at Backlash, the champion best have eyes in the back of his head.

Charlie Haas made a huge impact upon being drafted to RAW, attacking Shelton Benjamin and stealing the Intercontinental title. Haas will be the guest on Chris Jericho’s Hi-Lite Reel this Monday night to explain his actions.

Also scheduled for RAW, the Intercontinental and World Tag Team champions will be in action. Plus, the third draft pick from SmackDown! will be revealed.

All this and more coming to you LIVE this Monday night on RAW, only on Spike TV!

WWE News & Notes

April 9th, 2005

Chris Benoit was absent from RAW on Monday night to recover from some minor injuries suffered in the Money In The Bank match at WrestleMania 21. Benoit is likely to be kept off of the show this Monday night also, to sell the dangerous nature of the MITB match and to give “The Rabid Wolverine” some time to recuperate.

Muhammed Hassan was originally scheduled to face Hulk Hogan at Backlash. However, Hassan suffered an injury to his right knee during his brief confrontation at WrestleMania. It appeared at first to be a minor injury but tests taken the following day revealed that Hassan will be on the sidelines for at least 2-3 months. Creative went into an emergency meeting and had to rework plans for RAW that night.

One of the young stars of the independent scene Austin Aries has been signed to a developmental deal. He will report to OVW for the time being. It is expected that Aries will stay in OVW for some time before eventually being brought up to the SmackDown! roster to join the cruiserweight division.

The draft lottery will conclude the week after Backlash. The final picks will take place the night after Backlash on RAW and the very last pick on SmackDown! that Thursday night.

OOC: Sam thanks for that incredibly awesome feedback, you're my hero. Heh, hopefully this news reel explains some of the noticeable absentees from RAW. Orton is injured, I think that's mentioned in the opening post so you might have missed it. Hope to hear from you again!

John Cena hits the ring to open the show, informing us that “The champ is here!” Cena boldly challenges anybody who wants a shot at the title to “come get some” so to speak, before Kurt Angle interrupts the celebration, stepping through the curtain with a mike in hand. Angle says that Cena’s win was a fluke and that his WWE title reign would be one of the shortest of all time. He then says that the only people more stupid than Cena were his Chain Gang followers. Angle challenges Cena to put the WWE title on the line later tonight, which Cena accepts. Kurt promises to make Cena tap and cause one of the shortest title reigns ever.

Segment Rating: 90%

Paul London vs Billy Kidman

Chavo Guererro strolls out to the top of the stage to scout the competition as the finish nears. Kidman scores with the BK Bomb late in the match, then drags London over to the corner and climbs the turnbuckle. London jumps to his feet and takes Kidman down with an armdrag from the top rope before looking for the 450 splash, that Kidman rolls out of the way of. Kidman looks for a DVD but London reverses into a small package for the victory. London celebrates as Chavo watches on from the top of the runway.

Winner: Paul London @ 8:43 via pinfall

Overall Rating: 78%

Crowd Reaction: 58%

Match Quality: 92%

Eddie Guererro comes down to the ring and requests that his fellow tag team champion Rey Mysterio joins him. Rey obliges and meets Eddie in the ring. Eddie congratulates Rey on his win at WrestleMania, saying that Rey proved that he was the better man on the night. Eddie then says that a little friendly competition never hurt anyone, and suggests a rematch for next week on SmackDown! Rey smiles and stops to think for a second as Eddie encourages him to accept. Rey then grabs the mike and agrees to the match, much to the delight of Eddie. The two shake hands and hug as we go to a commercial.

Segment Rating: 82%

Booker T vs Carlito

Late in the match Booker sets up for the Scissors Kick but Carlito dodges out of the way and scores with a reverse DDT which gets a two count. Carlito starts setting up for a figure four leglock but Booker avoids it by kicking Carlito in the ass. Carlito stumbles back into a Book-end. Booker now sets up for the Scissors Kick again, and this time scores with it. Booker gets the three count for the win and celebrates with a post-match Spinarooni.

Winner: Booker T via pinfall @ 6:59

Overall Rating: 81%

Crowd Reaction: 83%

Match Quality: 79%

The United States champion Orlando Jordan comes down to the ring and complains about not being booked at WrestleMania. He says that as the US champion he deserves to be treated with respect, not be sitting on the sidelines of a major pay-per-view. “Hell, I don’t even have a match tonight!” This brings out Teddy Long who tells Jordan that if he wants a match tonight, he’ll get it right now. Long brings out his opponent, the newest draft pick to SmackDown! Matt Hardy.

Segment Rating: 80%

Orlando Jordan vs Matt Hardy

Hardy slides into the ring underneath the bottom rope and is met with some boots from Jordan who immediately gets on the offensive. Jordan whips Hardy into the ropes and Matt comes back with a flying forearm. Late in the match Hardy looks for a top rope leg drop but Jordan rolls out of the way. Jordan sets up and looks for a superkick. Hardy blocks it however and spins Jordan around before hitting the Twist of Fait for the win. Hardy celebrates on his way to the back as frustrated Jordan punches the mat in anger.

Winner: Matt Hardy @ 9:34 via pinfall

Overall Rating: 73%

Crowd Reaction: 72%

Match Quality: 75%

Booker T heads back to his locker-room and opens his locker. He looks through his things before he notices a note attached to it. Booker reads the note and looks puzzled. He glances around the room before scrunching the note up and throwing it away before leaving the room in anger, while Cole and Tazz question what the hell that was all about.

Segment Rating: 83%

A video package is aired highlighting the upcoming debut of 2 Cold Scorpio. The video runs through several clips of Scorpio from his time in WCW, ECW and the WWF. The video ends with a series of clips of Scorpio hitting the 450 splash before text appears on the screen saying “2 Cold Scorpio .. coming soon to SmackDown!”

Segment Rating: 74%

WWE Title: John Cena © vs Kurt Angle

Late in the match Angle reverses out of an attempted FU and scores with the Angle Slam! Angle makes the cover, but Cena kicks out just before three! The two began trading right hands and Cena takes Angle down with a back drop before hitting the five knuckle shuffle. They soon make it to their feet and Angle whips Cena right into the ref, knocking the official down in the process. Cena staggers backwards and walks into another Angle Slam. Angle covers but there’s no ref to make the count. Angle storms out of the ring and returns with the aid of a steel chair. Angle stalks Cena, when suddenly Shawn Michaels sprints down to the ring and Superkicks the chair into Angle’s face! Both men very slowly make it to their feet and begin trading right hands as the ref starts to come to. Angle looks for a german suplex but Cena blocks it with his foot before spinning around and nailing the FU for the win!

Winner: John Cena via pinfall @ 17:04

Overall Rating: 88%

Crowd Reaction: 94%

Match Quality: 77%

John Cena is celebrating in the ring and Kurt Angle is recovering on the outside as Shawn Michaels is at the top of the runway. Suddenly Teddy Long’s music hits and he joins Michaels at the top of the stage. He introduces the newest member of the SmackDown! roster – Shawn Michaels! Angle and Cena both stare up the ramp at Michaels as the show goes off the air.

Segment Rating: 76%

Show Stats

Overall Rating: 78

TV Rating: 6.23

Attendance: 7516

SmackDown! Preview

April 7th, 2005

The draft lottery continues this Thursday night on SmackDown! as WWE hits San Diego, California with an action packed show in store. The new WWE champion John Cena will be in the house after his huge win over JBL at WrestleMania. But with JBL now on RAW, who will step up and throw their name in contention for a WWE title shot?

Which two members of the RAW roster will join the SmackDown! locker-room this Thursday night? JBL and Charlie Haas were the first to switch brands in the 2005 draft lottery this past Monday night, who will be added to the list on SmackDown!?

The WWE Tag Team champions Eddie Guererro and Rey Mysterio squared off at WrestleMania in the spirit of friendly competition. But one has to question whether Eddie Guererro will be content to let the issue rest after suffering a loss on the biggest stage of them all.

All this and more coming to you on SmackDown! this Thursday night, only on UPN!

Thanks for the feedback Truth, just a few quick things. I thing having Batista lose to Christian, albeit due to interference, the night after his big WrestleMania world title win would kill his momentum, so I disagree with you there. And Charlie Haas had been in a nothing tag team with Hardcore Holly, Rico was released in late 2004. I appreciate you taking the time to leave some comments, I hope to hear from you again.

RAW opened with “Y2J” Chris Jericho welcoming us to the Hi-Lite Reel. Y2J claimed that the Money In The Bank match stole the show at WrestleMania, before getting down to the business and welcoming the number one draft pick from SmackDown! and the newest member of the RAW roster, John Bradshaw Layfield! JBL bragged about being the longest reigning WWE champion in years, before going on to insult the supposed “lack of talent” in the RAW locker-room. JBL’s offensive rant against the RAW superstars was eventually interrupted by Shawn Michaels. HBK stood up for the RAW brand told JBL to “put his money where his mouth is” and challenged the former WWE champion to a match later on in the show. JBL accepted, albeit somewhat reluctantly, and the two stared each other down as the segment came to a close.

Segment Rating: 88%

Kane vs Maven

The first match of the night saw Kane squaring off with Maven. The big man showed no signs of damage from last night’s brutal MITB match, picking up a decisive victory. Maven tried to avoid Kane at all costs throughout the match, to little avail. Kane manhandled the much smaller opponent and finished things off with the Chokeslam in just under three minutes.

Winner: Kane via pinfall @ 2:57

Overall Rating: 74

Crowd Reaction: 78

Match Quality: 65

Christian cut a promo in the backstage area hyping his match with Batista in the night’s main event. Christian said that despite going through one of the most dangerous matches in WrestleMania history the night before, he was going to square off with the World champion, allegedly at “nowhere near 100%” and cause the upset of the year by beating Batista. “Cause that’s how I roll!”

Segment Rating: 84%

William Regal & Tajiri vs La Resistance

This non-title affair saw another impressive showing from the tag team champions, as they managed to turn back a determined Conway and Grenier with relative ease. The finish came when Regal landed Conway with a solid right hand, spinning him around and sending him directly into a trademark death kick from Tajiri. The three count followed, signalling another win for the tag team champions.

Winners: William Regal & Tajiri via pinfall @ 8:52

Overall Rating: 72

Crowd Reaction: 69

Match Quality: 76

The new World champion Batista made his way down to the ring to a huge ovation from the fans. Batista talked about finally achieving his dream of becoming world champion and thanked the fans for their support. The celebration was cut short however, when Triple H and Ric Flair strolled out onto the top of the runway. Triple H said that Batista was only world champion because of him, and that “The Animal” owes everything he has to Evolution. “The Game” then announced that he would evoke his rematch clause at Backlash, where he would take back the World title and the “Batista fad” would be over once and for all.

Segment Rating: 82%

Shelton Benjamin vs Simon Dean

Benjamin made quick work of Dean, immediately catching the fitness guru off guard with a series of big moves in the early going. Four minutes into the match Benjamin finished Dean off with the T-Bone suplex for the victory. There would be no time for celebration following the win however, as Eric Bischoff came out on the stage to announce RAW’s second draft pick – Charlie Haas. Haas came out through the crowd and attacked Benjamin from behind before taking the IC champion out with his own title belt. Haas then stole the belt and headed back up the ramp with the IC title in his possession.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin via pinfall @ 4:03

Overall Rating: 78

Crowd Reaction: 75

Match Quality: 82

Hollywood Hulk Hogan showed up to address the Hulkamaniacs after his surprise appearance at WrestleMania. Hogan thanked all of the Hulkamaniacs and said that last night proved that there was still no greater force in the world then the power of Hulkamania. Before he could continue however, he was interrupted by Edge. Edge said that he was a little confused, as the way he remembered it, it wasn’t 1985 anymore. But yet Hulk Hogan is still in the ring stealing the spotlight off of those who truly deserve it, like Edge. Edge said that he is now “Mr Money In The Bank” and he should be the focus of RAW, not a washed up old man like Hogan. Hogan then challenged Edge to come down to the ring and try and take down this “washed up old man.” Not one to back down, Edge stormed down to the ring and the two began brawling. Hogan quickly gained the momentum and eventually took Edge down with the trademark big boot and leg drop, before celebrating with the fans as a disgruntled Edge headed to the back.

Segment Rating: 82%

JBL vs Shawn Michaels

This marked the first encounter between JBL and HBK. JBL’s size advantage allowed him to fight off some spirited comebacks from Michaels and for the most part, control the contest. However, late in the match things looked very bad for JBL after HBK scored with the elbow drop and set up for Sweet Chin Music. JBL just avoided the superkick however and responded with a low blow. This allowed JBL to finish Michaels off with a Clothesline from Hell and score the three count for the win.

Winner: JBL via pinfall @ 17:23

Overall Rating: 84

Crowd Reaction: 89

Match Quality: 74

A furious Edge was seen in the back approaching Eric Bischoff. Edge said that he was just embarrassed by Hulk Hogan and he wanted a chance for revenge. He wanted to end Hogan’s career next week in a match on RAW. Bischoff said that as much as he wanted to, he couldn’t give that kind of match away for free on television. What he could do however was book Hulk Hogan vs Edge for the upcoming Backlash pay-per-view.

Segment Rating: 75%

Batista vs Christian

Despite a respectable performance from Christian and some help from Tomko, Batista was simply too good in the evening’s main event. “The Animal” didn’t miss a step in his first victory as World champion, finishing off Christian with the Batista Bomb at the ten minute mark. As the bell rang, Triple H stormed the ring and attempted a sneak attack, but the big man saw it coming and sent “The Game” over the top rope with a thunderous clothesline. Batista celebrated in the ring while a livid Triple H backed up the ramp as RAW went off the air.

Winner: Batista via pinfall @ 10:10

Overall Rating: 83

Crowd Reaction: 85

Match Quality: 79

Show Stats:

Overall Rating: 80

TV Rating: 5.74

Attendance: 8,044

Monday Night RAW Preview

April 4th, 2005

World Wrestling Entertainment prepares to feel the aftermath of WrestleMania 21 as Los Angeles, California hosts Monday night RAW. There will be downtime for new World Heavyweight champion Batista, as he faces off with Christian in the evening’s main event. And what about Triple H? One must believe that Batista hasn’t seen the last of “The Game.” You can rest assured that the Cerebral Assassin will be out to do everything in his power to take down the new champion and reclaim World Heavyweight gold.

With WrestleMania now behind us, It’s time for the second annual draft lottery. This Monday night the first two draft picks will be revealed. The first draft pick from SmackDown! will make his RAW debut by appearing on Chris Jericho’s Hi-Lite Reel to open the show.

Hollywood Hulk Hogan shocked the world by making a surprise return at last night’s WrestleMania 21 and left many questions to be answered in the process. Was Hogan’s appearance merely a one-night-only deal? Or will “The Hulkster” be making a more permanent stay on RAW? We’ll hear from the man himself this Monday night.

All this and more coming to you on RAW this Monday night, live in Spike TV!

WWE WrestleMania 21 (RAW & SmackDown) PPV Results - 4/3/05

Location: Los Angeles, California

Report By: Adam Martin of WrestleView.com

- The WWE promo hit. Lilian Garcia started the show singing "American The Beautiful." Video was shown of the WWE's recent trip to Iraq throughout this as well. A big "USA" chant broke out after it concluded.

- The curtain then raised and highlights of the various WrestleMania commercials is shown. A new commercial followed with a spoof of "Gladiator" with Stone Cold Steve Austin. The promo for WrestleMania 21 hits. A series of pyro goes off inside The Staples Center in Los Angeles, California welcoming us to the show.

- We are then taken to ringside with Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler. It then gets passed off to the Spanish Announce Team. And last but not least, we get passed off to Michael Cole & Tazz at ringside as well.

- Up next is Eddie Guerrero vs. Rey Mysterio!

Eddie Guerrero vs. Rey Mysterio

Mysterio was decked out in new ring attire as always. He had different mask on that didn't cover his entire back head. The bell rings and here we go. Both lock up and Guerrero quickly takes down Mysterio with a side head-lock takedown for a two count. Mysterio counters another, flipping onto his feet. Guerrero takes down Mysterio quickly with an arm drag. Guerrero tries to trip up Mysterio, but Mysterio counters into a sunset flip that Guerrero counters into a catapult that launches Mysterio over the top rope to the outside. Guerrero attempts a baseball slide, but Mysterio gets back in and then Mysterio goes for a 619 that Guerrero dodges. Guerrero gets back in the ring and circles looking at Mysterio. Both lock hands, Mysterio gets in a monkey flip on Guerrero and counters out of a pin attempt. Both counter each other until Mysterio monkey flips Guerrero yet again. Mysterio charges at Guerrero, Guerrero launches him over the top rop, Mysterio lands on the ring apron, but Guerrero knocks him out with a big right. Guerrero tosses Mysterio back inside, covers, but Mysterio quickly kicks out at two.

Guerrero takes out Mysterio with a big back suplex, covers again, but only gets a two count. Guerrero continues to work on Mysterio, keeping his body weight on top. Guerrero then applies a surfboard submission on Mysterio, but in the process almost pins himself and quickly breaks up the move. Guerrero applies an STF on Mysterio as the referee looks on. Mysterio tries to counter over the back of Guerrero, but it gets messed up and Mysterio simply falls back to the corner. Guerrero picks up Mysterio looking to hit a powerbomb when Mysterio counters, tossing Guerrero under the ropes to the outside. Mysterio then comes back with a huge corkscrew plancha over the top rope, taking out Guerrero at ringside. Mysterio kicks Guerrero in the back of the leg, tosses him back in, gets in a big dive, but Guerrero stops any futher offense with a big elbow. Guerrero hits on suplex, Mysterio counters the second into a two count. Guerrero gives Mysterio a big backbreaker, covers, but only gets a two count. Guerrero gets in two suplexes, Mysterio counters the third into a huricanranna on Guerrero. Guerrero dodges the 619 and then gives Mysterio another big backbreaker. Guerrero covers...1...2...kick out.

Guerrero finally hits his three sulpex combo and then heads up to the top. Guerrero jumps, goes for the Frog Splash, but Mysterio rolls out of the way. Mysterio gets in a quick pin combo on Guerrero, but Guerrero quickly counters into a pin of his own for a close two count. Mysterio drop toe holds Guerrero and then connects with the 619. Mysterio goes for the West Coast Pop, but Guerrero counters into a big powerbomb for another close two count. Mysterio gets in a high elbow on Guerrero, hits a quick huricanranna and gets the pinfall!

Winner: Rey Mysterio

After the match, Eddie Guerrero looks on in shock. Michael Cole & Tazz remind that the streak continues for Mysterio. Both Mysterio and Guerrero shake hands. Mysterio leaves the ring in celebration.

- Backstage, WWE Champion JBL is with WWE US Champion Orlando Jordan. World Champion Triple H and Ric Flair walk up. Triple H said, "Look, it's the wrestling god." JBL reminds him that he is the only wrestler alive to have the longest streak as champion and says Triple H can lose to Batista and lose his title for the 10th time. Triple H said JBL can continue to tell himself he is really good and sooner or later some will believe it. JBL said he is that good. Triple H said we will find out later tonight and see who is still left champion. Flair "WOOOOO's" in Jordan's face.

- Rob Schneider and Adam Sandler are shown in the front row.

"Money in the Bank" Ladder Match

(The winner earns a shot at the World Heavyweight Title)

Chris Benoit vs. Chris Jericho vs. Kane vs. Edge vs. Christian vs. WWE IC Champion Shelton Benjamin

Just a reminder, the storyline states the winner can use his shot at the World Title at anytime within a year. During Kane's entrance, the ladders in the entrance were all set on fire which was a cool effect. Before Kane got to the ring, he began brawling with everyone involved. Kane took out everyone and then headed towards the ring. All those involved went after Kane right away. Both Benoit and Benjamin gave Kane a double suplex on the outside. Christian tries to bring a ladder in the ring, but Jericho gets a hold of it and snaps it back in Christian's face. The bell officially rings at this point. Benjamin starts going after Jericho, but Jericho fights back with a big bulldog. Jericho gets in a springboard dropkick taking out Edge and Benoit in the process. Jericho jumps over the top rope taking out Edge yet again. Christian springboards over the top rope, taking out Jericho and Edge. Benjamin jumps over himself getting huge air taking out the rest on the outside. Kane then gets up and takes out everyone else as well (including Tyson Tomko who was at ringside with Christian). Kane gets a ladder from under the ring and puts it in the ring. Kane takes out Edge with it and Christian as well when he came off the top rope. Jericho stops it, hitting a dropkick on Kane.

Jericho takes out both Benjamin and Edge with the ladder. Jericho then throws it down across Edge's body. Benoit comes from behind and gives Jericho a huge german suplex, allowing the ladder to fall out of Jericho's hands to the outside. Benoit sets up the ladder and looks to climb up when Kane grabs him. Kane tries to pull him down, but Benoit counters into a Crossface. Edge tries to intefere, but Benoit locks him into Crossface as well. Kane grabs the ladder and nails Benoit in the face with it. Kane puts Benoit's arm in between the ladder and closes it a few times over it, causing Benoit to scream in pain. Edge then takes out Kane with a huge Spear. Christian comes in the ring with a second ladder. Edge grabs his and both Edge/Christian sandwich Kane with two ladders. Benjamin jumps up on the top rope and takes out both Edge and Christian. Benjamin takes out Christian with a spinning heel kick after Edge ducked the attempt. Edge sets up a ladder in the corner and irish whips Benjamin into it with force. Edge goes for a Spear, but Benjamin counters and sends Edge face first into the ladder in the corner. The crowd starts a big "SHELTON" chant as he picks up Edge and slams him against the ladder a few more times. Benjamin hits a big Splash in the corner on Edge. Edge rolls out of the ring and Benjamin grabs the ladder.

Benjamin sets it up, climbs up the ladder and gets to the briefcase when Jericho comes up to stop it. Christian sets up a second ladder nearby. He climbs up, but Benoit joins him. Edge sets up a third ladder nearby. All are exchanging chops and punches. Christian comes down with Benoit, hitting the mat with impact. Jericho is the next to go down, hitting with a loud thud. Edge and Benjamin are exchanging punches when Benjamin grabs Edge, hitting a huge T-Bone Suplex off the top of the ladder to the ring below. Jericho starts to get up a ladder when Christian cuts him off. The ladder Chrisitan has falls against the other and Jericho gives him a big kick to the back of the head. Jericho climbs up to the top of the other ladder, reaches, but Benjamin runs up the ladder leaning against it, giving Jericho a huge clothesline! Benjamin then climbs up, gets to the top, recahes, but Christian nails Benjamin in the ribs with the ladder. Kane gives Benjamin a chokeslam, but when he comes down he gets tangled in the top rope. Tyson Tomko runs in and takes out Kane with a big boot. Tomko sets up the ladder for Christian, who gets on his feet. Tomko puts Christian on his shoulders trying to help him up when Kane takes him out. Christian gives Kane some hard rights. Kane tips over the ladder, causing Christian to fall onto Tomko on the outside. Kane climbs up the ladder and gets to the top when Jericho comes up the other side. Jericho gives Kane some hard rights. The ladder drops and both go down, with Jericho falling to the outside and Kane hitting the top rope and bouncing back. Benoit sets up a ladder near the corner. Benoit climbs up the top rope and then gets at the top of the ladder. Benoit slashes the throat, jumps and comes down with a huge headbutt on Kane! Benoit's stitches from Monday night on RAW are busted open at this point (25 stitches to be exact according to Jim Ross). Benoit sets up another ladder, climbs up, but Kane cuts him off. Benoit headbutts Kane many times and Kane falls off. Benoit reaches up when Edge takes him out with a huge chair shot to Benoit's injured arm. Edge climbs up, grabs the briefcase and pulls it down.

Winner: Edge

After the match, Edge takes off with the briefcase in hand celebrating with a big smile on his face. Benoit is shown screaming in pain in the ring as WWE referee's attend to him.

- A promo for the WWE Fanatic PPV Series runs for this month about Andre the Giant.

In-Ring Segment: Eugene, Muhammad Hassan...and the return of Hulk Hogan

As Jim Ross & Jerry Lawler are talking, Eugene comes out and gets in the ring. Eugene gets on the mic and said he can't believe he is at WrestleMania. He said his favorite WrestleMania moment of all time was when King Kong Bundy bodyslammed midgets. Eugene said midgets are awesome. Eugene said this is the greatest moment of his life when Muhammad Hassan's music hits. Hassan comes out along with Daivari. Hassan gets on the mic and asks Eugene if he has any idea why he is angry. Eugene said yeah, you don't like midgets. Hassan said no. He said what he doesn't like is being excluded from the biggest show of the year. Hassan said everyone knows that Hollywood is filled with phonies and fakes. He said Los Angeles has a long history of being prejudice. Hassan said he has never been pinned in his career, yet he takes a back seat to someone like Eugene. Daivari quickly translates and Eugene has a confused look on his face. Hassan said he would not stand for this. He said if he wasn't given a WrestleMania Moment, he was going to create one himself. Hassan then knocks out Eugene. Daivari helps out, getting in some quick kicks. Hassan (who did the throat slash again) applied the Camel Clutch on Eugene. "Real American" hit and out comes Hulk Hogan! Hassan and Daivari go after Hogan right away. Hogan takes out both of them quickly. Hogan charges at Hassan in the corner, hits a big boot and then tosses him over the top rope. Daivari nails Hogan across the back with a steel chair. Hogan turns around, grabs Daivari, hits the big boot and tosses him over the top rope. "Real American" hits again and Hogan celebrates with the crowd, ripping apart his t-shirt. Hogan poses for the crowd as they continue to go nuts. Hogan's wife, children and David Arquette were shown in the front row as well. As Hogan leaves, he poses in front of the screen as a USA flag appears behind him.

The Undertaker vs. Randy Orton

The Undertaker's entrance to the ring included druids with torches lighting the way. They surrounded the ring with the torches as the gong sounded. The Undertaker looked to float down the entraceway (you could see what was pushing him through the smoke even though it was played off on TV as spooky). The bell rings and here we go. Undertaker charges at Orton, but Orton moves out of the way quickly. Orton slaps Undertaker and dodges a right hand. Taker applies a side headlock on Orton. Orton launches Taker into the ropes and takes him out with a big dropkick. Orton gives Taker a back body drop, but Taker comes back with a huge right hand that takes him down with impact. Taker works on Orton in the corner with a few punches and elbows. Orton counters a charge from Taker into a schoolboy for a two count. Orton quickly goes for the RKO, but Taker launches him over the top rope to dodge it. Taker comes to the outside and grabs Orton. Taker puts Orton on the ring apron, gets up on the ring apron himself and drops the leg over Orton. Taker gets in the ring, twists Orton's left arm, goes up to the top and comes down hard in his classic move. Taker attempts a big boot charge on Orton in the corner, but Orton moves out of the way. Orton fights back knocking Taker off the ring apron, allowing Taker to go head first in the ring barricade at ringside. Orton gets in a few rights on Taker's forehead and tosses him back in the ring. Orton grabs Taker by the head and gives him a hard right hand. Orton gives Taker an uppercut, but Taker fights back with a few elbows.

Orton comes out of no where with a big clothesline on Taker. Taker quickly responds with a big DDT off the ropes. Taker then gives Orton a big side slam, covers, but only gets a two count. Taker irish whips Orton into the corner and follows it up with a big elbow. Taker hits a second elbow charge on Orton in the corner. Taker throws Orton up on his shoulders and drops him face first on the corner. Taker goes off the ropes, but Orton takes him out with a quick elbow. Orton covers, but only gets a two count. Orton grabs Taker and gives him some stiff forearms to the chest. The fans start to boo Orton loudly. Taker then sits up and Orton has a concerned look on his face. Orton gets in a few right hands on Taker as the crowd chants "RANDY SUCKS" loudly. Taker fights back with some hard rights on Orton. Orton attempts a clothesline, but he hits Taker with impact and falls back. Taker covers, but Orton gets a shoulder up at two. Taker applies the Dragon Sleeper on Orton. The referee lifts Orton's arm and at the second time Orton counters, giving Taker a big DDT. Orton then applies a headlock on Taker. Taker fights back with a few punches. Taker comes off the ropes and Orton applies a sleeper. Taker quickly counters into a back suplex. Taker hits a big boot on Orton, goes off the ropes, but Orton gives Taker a big powerslam that only gets him a two count. Orton gives Taker 9 punches up on the top rope, stops before the 10th to pose, but Taker moves forward looking to hit a powerbomb. Orton falls down, takes out the referee, Taker lifts up Orton for a powerbomb but falls back when Orton counters. Bob Orton then hits the ring and takes out Taker with a clothesline using his famous cast. Bob Orton puts Randy over Taker. The referee comes back and counts...1...2...kick out.

Taker sits up and sees Bob Orton. Randy goes after him. Taker gets out of it and big boots Bob Orton off the ring apron. Taker grabs Orton, lifts him in the air for a chokeslam, but Orton comes down countering into a HUGE RKO. Orton covers...1...2...Taker gets a shoulder up. The crowd is going nuts at this point. Orton then picks up Taker, lifts him on his shoulders and looks to hit the Tombstone Piledriver. Taker counters into the Tombstone of his own, dropping Orton down with impact. Taker covers and gets the pinfall. He now moves to 13-0 at WrestleMania.

Winner: The Undertaker

- A video package airs showing how the feud between Trish Stratus and Christy Hemme came about. That match for the WWE Women's Title is up next.

WWE Women's Championship Match

Trish Stratus © vs. Christy Hemme w/ Lita

The bell rings and here we go. Trish sits on her back offering Christy the chance to pin her right away. Trish shoves Christy away. Christy charges at Trish again, but Trish slams her down and kicks her out of the ring. Trish tosses Christy into the steel steps at ringside and then throws her back in the ring. Trish chops Christy two times in the corner, goes for the Chick Kick, Christy blocks and kicks Trish in the gut. Trish holds onto the ropes as Christy pulls her forward, causing Trish to hit the mat with impact. Christy gets a quick pin on Trish for a two count. Trish gets in a few more chops on Christy in the corner. Trish taunts at Lita a bit who is on the outside. Trish charges at Christy, Christy counters into a sunset flip, but only gets a two count. Trish takes out Christy quickly and pats herself on the back. On the outside, Trish kicks Christy in the gut and goes back inside. Lita attends to Christy and Trish comes out again, this time taking out Lita. Trish taunts at Lita, but Christy quickly rolls her up for a two count. Christy gives Trish some hard kicks and then nails her head off the corner a few times. Christy launches Trish into the corner, Trish bounches off, Christy hits the Twist of Fate, Christy covers, but only gets a two count. Trish rolls up Christy, Christy counters into a roll up, Trish kicks out and then gives Christy a big Chick Kick. Trish covers and gets the pinfall.

Winner & STILL WWE Women's Champion: Trish Stratus

- A video package airs showing how the feud between Kurt Angle and Shawn Michaels came about, first starting at the Royal Rumble in January. That match is up next.

Kurt Angle vs. Shawn Michaels

The match starts with both staring each other down and the bell ringing. HBK gets in a slap on Angle quickly. Angle takes down HBK, picks him up and slams him down again. Angle continues to mat wrestle HBK until HBK grabs the ropes to break it up. A fairly loud "YOU SCREWED BRET" chant started up at this point as both stared each other down. HBK goes after Angle again, taking him down and applying a headlock. Angle counters out of the headlock into a big back suplex. However, in doing so HBK keeps the headlock on tight. Angle tries to get in some offense, but each time HBK applies yet another side headlock takeover. Angle tries to send HBK into the ropes, but HBK falls to his knee to prevent him keeping the headlock applied. They move to the corner and the referee breaks it up. HBK applies yet another side headlock taking down Angle. Angle fights back giving HBK a big elbow, shoulder block, but HBK fights back with a high hip toss. HBK applies a submission on Angle's right arm. Angle reverses into a pin on HBK, HBK reverses back into a pin on Angle. They continue to go back and forth a few more times. Angle shows his strength lifting HBK in the air still in the submission, but HBK counters into a pinfall for a two count. HBK goes right back to another side headlock to stop any type of offense from Angle. Angle pushes HBK to the corner and gets in some hard rights. HBK counters getting in some of his own. Angle then applies the Ankle Lock, but HBK counters out of it and clotheslines Angle over the top rope going along for the ride.

HBK takes off the top of the SmackDown announcers table and quickly rolls back in and out of the ring to break the 10 count. Angle grabs HBK and attempts a suplex on HBK through the announcers table. HBK counters out of it, but Angle comes back looking to hit an Angle Slam, but finishes it off by dumping HBK back first into the steel ring post with impact. The referee starts the count when Angle goes back out and starts to work on HBK with some hard rights and lefts. Angle rolls HBK back in the ring and gives him a big suplex, covers, but only gets a two count. Angle applies a body scissors around HBK and drives his forearm into his face. HBK fights back with some punches to the ribs and a few chops in the corner. Angle sends HBK to the corner with force, with HBK flipping up, flipping back down and Angle giving HBK a big belly-to-belly suplex. Angle hits another, covers, but only gets a two count. Angle applies a modified camel clutch, sitting on the back of HBK's back. Both get on their feet and HBK fights back with a few chops. Angle quickly takes down HBK with a huge clothesline. Angle covers, but only gets a two count. HBK is sitting up on the top rope. Angle comes up trying to lift him off. HBK fights back, knocking Angle off the top. HBK gets up, jumps, but misses the flying elbow when Angle moved out of the way. Angle takes down his straps and gets focused. Angle attempts an Angle Slam, but HBK counters into an arm drag. Angle charges at HBK, but HBK lifts him over the top rope and Angle hits the outside with impact.

Angle gets up on the outside and HBK gets up on the top rope. As HBK jumps, he appeared to trip a bit and his knee looked to have come across Angle's face as he came down. HBK gets up on the ring apron, Angle jumps up looking to hit a german suplex off the ring apron. HBK gets in a few elbows followed by a low blow using his boot. The crowd boo's at seeing this. HBK kicks Angle away who falls on top of the announcers table. HBK springboards off the second rope and comes down hard on Angle. The table does not break when this happens though. The referee starts the 10 count as the fans chant along with. Both Angle and HBk start to crawl towards the ring. Both get in the ring at 9. Angle is bleeding from the mouth at this point. They stand in front of each other as HBK gets in a few punches and chops. HBK takes out Angle with a flying forearm and flips up back on his feet. Angle charges and HBK takes him down with a few punches and an inverted atomic drop. HBK bodyslams Angle in the middle of the ring, goes up to the top, jumps and connects with the flying elbow. HBK backs up into the corner and starts stomping his foot, tuning up the band. Angle gets up, HBK charges, Angle blocks grabbing HBK's foot and applying the Ankle Lock. HBK tries to roll out of it, but Angle keeps it locked on with force. HBK reaches for the bottom rope. He can't get it on one side, but gets it on the other. Angle breaks the Ankle Lock and taunts at HBK to get up. Angle goes for the Angle Slam, HBK counters out of it, but Angle applies the Ankle Lock. HBK counters that into a quick two count pinfall. HBK goes for some Sweet Chin Music, but Angle counters into a big Angle Slam. Angle covers...1...2...HBK kicks out! Angle gets up on the top rope, jumps, attempts a big moonsault, but HBK moves out of the way before he can feel the impact. HBK gets up on the top rope, but Angle jumps up and hits the Angle Slam off the top. Angle covers...1...2...HBK kicks out again! The fans are going nuts. Angle grabs HBK and yells at him to tap out. HBK then knocks him out with the Sweet Chin Music. HBK stays down for a bit, but eventually crawls over, gets an arm over Angle's chest...1...2...Angle gets a shoulder up. Angle out of no where applies the Ankle Lock on HBK as HBK starts to stand up. HBK starts to scream in pain, trying to fight out of it, but Angle keeps it applied. HBK jumps in the air moving toward any rope he can get, but Angle pulls him away each time. Angle falls to the mat and applies it even more. HBK looks to tap, stops himself, but then gives in and taps out.

Winner: Kurt Angle

After the match, HBK grabs his ankle in pain. The referee raises Angle's arm in the air and Angle celebrates his victory. After Angle leaves, HBK gets on his feet and the fans applaud him.

The Piper's Pit: with Stone Cold Steve Austin

Roddy Piper's infamous music hits and he comes to the ring. Piper gets on the mic and thanks everyone for the honor of the Hall of Fame. He said it is now time to move on and make history. Piper said he wanted to know who was the baddest man in WWE and he was told Stone Cold Steve Austin. The glass shatters and out comes Austin new t-shirt and all. Austin salutes the crowd on all four corners and grabs the mic. Piper throws out both of the chairs that were in the ring as Austin gets in his face. Piper said, "So you are the rebel huh? Welcome to Piper's Pit." Piper slaps Austin in the face. Austin says, "Thank you very much for having me you son of a bitch." Austin then slaps Piper. Piper said he likes Austin. Austin asks if he would like another. Piper said he respects Austin as he hasn't meant him until now. The crowd chants "WHAT" and he asks if the crowd is deaf. Piper said he has respect for Austin sticking up for Vince McMahon. The crowd continues to chant "WHAT" at Piper and he responds, "...try to keep up with me." Piper said he has a point. He said he was here when WrestleMania didn't have a number and was the first to mess around with Vince McMahon. Piper said Austin and James Dean don't hold a thing to him. Austin makes fun of Piper's attire and asks if he is suppose to be impressed or scared of him. He said there is something going on that he can't quite understand. Austin said he doesn't scare him a bit and asks if he made himself clear. Piper said what we have here is failure to communicate.

Carlito's music hits and he comes out on the mic. Carlito called both Piper and Austin little girls for fighting. He said they both have one thing in common...neither of them is "cool." Carlito said nobody wants to see them anymore because everyone wants to see Carlito. Austin invites Carlito to come in the ring. Piper asks Carlito who the hell he is. Carlito said he is the new thing around here and he is taking charge...and that...that is cool. He said he would appreciate if both just walked to the back. Austin repeats his demand as well as Piper. Carlito said if they have a problem with that (he steps forward with his apple), but Piper takes it away and eats lots of the apple. Piper spits it in Carlito's face. Carlito knocks out Piper and takes him out with some hard lefts. Austin looks on laughing. Austin grabs Carlito and starts to stomp him in the corner. Austin throws Carlito at Piper. Piper rakes his eyes and Austin gives Carlito a Stunner. Piper throws Carlito out of the ring over the top rope. Austin calls for some beer and he drinks it with Piper. As Austin gives Piper some more beer, he kicks him in the gut and hits The Stunner. Austin then walks up the ramp and salutes the crowd with some beer.

- JR & The King plug Backlash on May 1st from Manchester, NH.

Sumo Wrestling Challenge

Big Show vs. Akebono

Both are in traditional sumo attire. They stretch in the middle and then go to their respective corners to spread salt over the mat. It starts with Akebono getting the upperhand pushing Big Show away. Big Show prevents being thrown out from the circle however. They lock up together and Big Show almost steps out of the circle. Big Show pushes Akebono away and then gets in a minor shoulder block. Big Show does his chokeslam taunt and collides with Akebono. Big Show lifted Akebono to the other side of the circle, but Akebono quickly pushed him down and Big Show fell out of the ring.

Winner: Akebono

After the match, Big Show shook hands with Akebono. They both left towards the back at the same time.

WWE Championship Match

John Bradshaw Layfield © vs. John Cena

Before the match started, JBL's limo was escorted by police on motorcycles. Also, $100 bills with JBL's face on them fell from the top of the arena onto the crowd in attendance. The bell rings and here we go. Both lock up and JBL applies a headlock on Cena. Cena whips JBL into the ropes, but JBL takes down Cena with a big shoulder block. Cena fights back taking JBL down, but JBL came back just as quick with another big shoulder block. JBL nails Cena's head off the corner and gets in a few right hands. JBL gets in a big forearm to Cena's back followed by a quick chop to the chest. JBL gives Cena two swinging neckbreakers, covers, but only gets a two count. JBL starts to choke Cena using the second rope until the referee breaks it up. JBL uses a catapult to snap Cena chest first into the second rope. Cena fights back with a few punches, a boot to the face, but JBL stops anymore more with a big spinebuster. JBL taunts the crowd and they boo back loudly. JBL covers, but only gets a two count. JBL gets in another neckbreaker on Cena. JBL kicks Cena in the face a few times. Cena tries to fight back, but JBL cuts him off each time. JBL hits Cena with a clothesline in the corner. JBL picks up Cena and gives him another big clothesline. JBL gives Cena a snapmare takedown and then drives his forearm into Cena's back. JBL applies a sleeper on Cena. Cena fights out of the sleeper with a big back body drop. Cena dodges a clothesline from JBL when he gets back on his feet. Both go off the ropes and meet in the middle giving each other a big double clothesline. Cena gets in a few rights on JBL until JBL grabs Cena and tosses him to the outside. JBL follows to the outside and gives Cena a quick neckbreaker on the ground. JBL tosses Cena back in the ring.

JBL puts Cena up on the top rope in the corner. JBL gets in a chop and a few punches. JBL gives Cena a superplex off the top onto the mat below. JBL covers, but only gets a two count. JBL shows frustration as he climbs up the other top rope, Cena gets on his feet, JBL jumps, but Cena catches him in mid-air and slams him back down hard. JBL and Cena exchange lefts and rights. Cena takes out JBL with two big clotheslines. Cena gives JBL a back body drop followed by big shoulder tackle. Cena calls out JBL and hits a huge side slam. Cena stands above JBL, does the YOU CAN'T SEE ME taunt and drops the fist. Cena dodges the Clothesline from Hell from JBL, lifts him up and hits the F-U. Cena covers...1...2...3! We have a new WWE Champion folks.

Winner & NEW WWE Champion: John Cena

After the match, a shocked John Cena gets handed the WWE Championship and begins to celebrate. Cena takes the WWE Title and celebrates with fans at ringside. Cena then heads up the entrance ramp and continues to celebrate with the WWE Title.

- Highlights from the WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony last night was shown.

- Mean Gene Okerlund introduces the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2005: Nikolai Volkoff, The Iron Sheik, Paul Orndorff, Bob Orton Jr., Jimmy Hart, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper and Hulk Hogan. All were accompanied by WWE Divas when they came out.

- A promo runs for WrestleMania 22 next year in Chicago.

World Heavyweight Championship

Triple H © w/ Ric Flair vs. Batista

Motorhead played "The Game" theme music live. Midway through, Triple H rose up from under the stage that Motorhead was playing on. The referee displays the title on the line in the contest. Both Triple H and Batista stare each other down. The bell rings and here we go. Both lock up and show their power by not pushing themselves down. They hook up again Batisa pushes Triple H away when he gets pushed into the corner. Batista then gets in a shoulder block on Triple H. Triple H gets up surprised and Batista smiles at him to bring it. Triple H quickly responds with a shoulder block of his own and he smiles down at Batista. Triple H kicks Batista in the gut and looks to go for the Pedigree quickly, but Batista counters out and gives Triple H a modified military press slam. Batista throws Triple H into the corner and gives him a few hard elbows to the face. Batista gives Triple H a big back body drop, but Triple H follows it up with a high knee that knocks Batista to the outside. Ric Flair distracts Batista on the outside, allowing Triple H to send Batista into the steel steps. Batista gets up on the ring apron and peeks his head through the second rope. Triple H takes advantage by dropping an elbow across the back of Batista's neck. Triple H starts to choke Batista until the referee breaks it up. Triple H starts to argue with the referee allowing Ric Flair to get in a cheap shot on Batista.

Triple H comes back out to the outside and slams Batista against the ring barricade. Triple H then slams Batista against the side of the ring and throws him back inside. Triple H continues to work on Batista, hitting a big elbow to his lower back. Triple H applies a front facelock and follows it up with a suplex. Triple H covers, but only gets a two count. Triple H drives his knee into the back of Batista a few times and then gives him a big backbreaker. Triple H gets in the referee's face again allowing Ric Flair to get in some more cheap shots. Batista gets up on the ring apron and Triple H drops his head over the top rope, allowing Batista to fly back off the ring apron. Triple H puts Batista back in the ring. Triple H gives Batista a few hard right hands. Batista tries to fight back, but Triple H grabs him and hits a big spinebuster. Triple H covers, but only gets a two count in the process. Triple H covers Batista a few more times, but Batista kicks out each time. A frustrated Triple H picks up Batista and gives him a big neckbreaker. Flair starts yelling at the referee to count faster. Batista gets in two right hands on Triple H, but Triple H gets ready for the Pedigree. Batista counters out of it with a back body drop. Triple H comes off the ropes and hits a knee to the face. Triple H goes up to the top, Batista gets on his feet, Triple H jumps and Batista gives him a big clothesline. Batista then gives Triple H a side walk slam.

Batista charges at Triple H in the corner, but he gets a face full of boots from Triple H instead. Triple H tries to irish whip Batista, but Batista counters launching Triple H over the top rope. On the outside, Triple H launches Batista into the steel steps shoulder first. Triple H grabs one part of the steel steps, grabs Batista and looks to Pedigree him on it. Batista counters, catapulting Triple H into the ring post. Triple H walks around the ring with blood streaming down his face. Batista grabs Triple H by the head and nails it off the steel steps two times. Triple H gets in the ring and falls to his knees in a weak manner. Batista gives Triple H some stiff forearms to his head as Ric Flair looks on from ringside. Batista goes off the ropes and kicks Triple H in the face. Batista hits a clothesline on Triple H in the corner. He does the same in an opposite corner. When Batista does it for a third time, Triple H gets knocked out even faster with impact. Batista lifts up Triple H to his shoulders and comes down hard with a big powerslam. When Triple H goes to the outside, Ric Flair tries to go after Batista, but Batista knocks him out. While this is happening, Triple H tries to hit Batista from behind with a steel chair, but the referee prevents it - knocking himself out in the process. Flair comes in the ring trying to knock out Batista with the ring bell. Batista dodges it and gives Flair a spinebuster. The referee pushes Ric Flair out of the ring. While this takes place, Triple H knocks out Batista with the World Title. Triple H covers...1...2...Batista kicks out! Triple H charges at Batista and gets a big spinebuster for his troubles. Batista picks up Triple H, Triple H drops down and gives Batista a low blow when the referee didn't see. Triple H sets up Batista for the Pedigree, tries to execute it twice, but Batista shows is strength fighting back and then dropping Triple H back down hard on the mat behind him. Batista picks up Triple H, lifts him in the air and drops him down hard in the Batista Bomb. Batista locks in the pinfall - 1...2...3!

Winner & NEW World Heavyweight Champion: Batista

After the match, Batista is handed the World Heavyweight Title. A bloody Triple H stares down Batista in the corner and then leaves the ring after Batista taunts at him with the World Title. A series of pyro goes off above the ring as Batista continues to celebrate with the World Heavyweight Title.

- A highlight video of the events that took place earlier tonight at WrestleMania 21 runs as the show goes off the air...

Predictions:

WWF Title Match: Chris Jericho

- there is absolutely no way that you'll take the title off of Jericho here, considering that was more or less the main focus of the diary.

IC Title Match: Rob Van Dam

- I see RVD taking the title and possibly leading to a heel turn for Edge

Tag Title Match: Christian & Test

- Probably wrong here, but I'm seeing Storm's interference leading to the CH scoring an upset and taking the tag belts. If not here, I expect the CH to take the titles in a rematch at No Way Out.

Handicap Match: Booker T

- Booker somehow pulls this one out of his ass.

Matt vs Jeff: Matt Hardy

- Matt seems to be the one getting the big push out of this feud and he need's a win here to really elevate him.

Bonus:

1. Two

2. Not sure, I'm going to go for an outside shot and say Kevin Nash.

3. The Rock makes the most sense in terms of a WM main event, but an Angle win and face turn (with his new gimmick) could also work well.

Havn't commented in a while, but the shows are gradually getting better and better here as we head towards the Royal Rumble. The most significant improvement is the increased focus on the Canadian Horsemen. You've really stepped it up here, and they've become the focal point of the show. Also, you're RR card is looking very interesting. Booker T trying to avoid facing the APA is great, and reminds me of Edge & Christian's exploits mid 2000 in dodging Faarooq and Bradshaw. Good way to put the APA over also. The Raven stuff is great, albeit somewhat typical of the way Raven seems to be pushed in diaries. The Jeff/Lita passionate kiss was a very WWE-ish moment and adds a bit of fuel to their feud which might bring out a more brutal side in Matt. I thought Taker/Michaels might have been a nice WrestleMania match, but then again, it's probably better for the Rumble. That way Taker can keep his WM streak and HBK can make a successful return to the ring. And I have no idea who's going to win the Rumble.

To sum things up ... this continues to improve in it's sheer sexy-ness and I commend you sir.

ps. just noticed you left feedback in my diary (Y)

For MITB, take one of the ladders and set it up at the top of the stage. The others will keep trying to walk up the ramp and get the second ladder, giving you much more time to grab the case.

Now that I actually located challenge mode, it's actually been fairly easy. I've won everything except the "Dude Love vs Foley, Cactus and Mankind" one so far. And the other two legend challenges that aren't there because I havn't unlocked Austin. So now I'll have to go do another season mode just so I can win the Royal Rumble. Lame.

I'm putting a lot of hope into the fact that Joe and AJ Styles seem so intent on making sure this game doesn't suck. The fact that Midway is producing it does not fill me with great confidence however. As for the trailer, I thought it captured the Impact Zone amazingly well and it looks magnificent. Even if the game sucks, it will be interesting to play something differerent (ie. 6 sided ring, playing with TNA talent.)

I know this sounds completely stupid, and well, it is ..

BUT I CAN NOT FIND CHALLENGE MODE!

where is it?

Heh.

My number one suggestion to THQ to improve the next Smackdown game: Let us turn off individual songs like EA does with Madden. If I gotta hear that fucking Money in the Bank song one more fucking time, I'm gonna put my fucking foot through the television.

I haven't watched cricket in ages, but this looks like the series to get into. Fuck losing the Ashes, that's a disgrace to the country!

Flintoff gone after three balls!

Haha, awesome.

The AI in the Elimination Chamber is utterly retarded. I'm Booker T, defending the World title and I get thrown in first. I eventually got eliminated after HBK hit me with Sweet Chin Music. Allright, that's fine. I just had to wait for one more man to be eliminated and the match would end. Even though the two remaining men were completely red, and had numerous pinning opportunities, they refused to make a cover. Instead, they both continued to climb all the way up the chamber, climb back down to the top rope, and jump off with an elbow drop. Repeat this for like ten minutes until I eventually gave up and walked away and when I returned, Cactus Jack had finally won somehow. Also, you cant seem to smash people through the chambers anymore. That sucks.

God damn MITB match on legend! I've come so close so many times but I just cant win it. I'm currently in a MITB that's pushing 40 minutes with Bret Hart.

I still mark like a bitch every time I hit the "Benjamin running up the ladder" spot.

Yeah the tag partners are retarded, they never come in to fight off the opposition when you're making a cover. That's why the 6 man tag match I just had went for forty minutes. It actually turned out to be one of the best matches I've had yet because of the shit partners, but still, tag matches are pretty crap.

Bah! I just finished my first season, then screwed up the saving process somehow and lost everything I'd unlocked. Annoying. Loving this game though. The new analogue control system, environmental hotspots and the additions to season mode are the most noticeable awesome additions so far. I'm starting a new season with Lashley now, and I'm making sure that it fucking saves properly.

Just got it today and I'm impressed. Love the new control scheme, it flows so much smoother. I've started a season with Mick Foley. Enjoying it so far, although this current storyline I'm in at the moment is fairly gay.

I'm really enjoying the format. Many complain that recapped results don't have enough detail, but when they are written well, as they are in this diary, they are excellent. Great writing, great format. Also, the premise of the Canadian Horseman is just awesome, and something that I wish the WWF had gone with. Now, booking wise, things I'm liking and disliking.

The Good Stuff

- Tazz seeming to be on the verge of a push. I'd like to see him return with a more old school, badass persona reminiscent of his ECW days, but molded into a style that could run in the WWF. So basically, minus the constant "motherfuckers" and "suck my dick"s.

- The interaction between McMahon and Flair has been very realistic so far.

- The video hyping Raven's return interests me.

- Everything involving Regal has been great so far.

- Signs of RVD pushing his way into the IC division

The Bad/Confusing Stuff

- Why is Kurt Angle shaking hands with Big Show? Angle was heel here. If this is your way of turning him face, I'm not liking it. Largely due to the fact that it's Big Show. It's not someone who's going to be having a 5 star classic that leads to a showing of mutual respect. Maybe I'm reading this the wrong way, but it just seems odd.

- IMO there should be more focus on The Canadian Horsemen, but more so, on Chris Jericho. He's just been put over as the first undisputed champion of all time. He should be getting some time on the mike. I just don't feel like it seems like the big deal that it should be. Of course, you've only had two shows to work with so far, but I hope it's something you work towards.

- The Rock and Steve Austin losing clean on TV matches with no buildup? I don't like it. I'm all for Booker and Taker to go over, but only if it's on PPV after some decent buildup. A clean win over Austin or Rock is a huge deal.

- A triple threat match between Kane, Booker T and Rikishi! ... why?

- APA/Test & Christian going to a draw? Hmmm, I like the fact that you're giving some respect to the APA, but I feel Test and Christian should have gone over here. I don't see what good a draw does.

So overall, while I've left more "bad" feedback than good, I'm absolutely loving this and I'm hoping you keep with it. It's a golden idea, and your writing style is perfect in my opinion. You're able to do the recap form justice. There's some good stuff happening already, I'd just like to see more focus and a more dominant Horsemen, particularly on the fact that Jericho is their leader and the first undisputed champion.

Keep this up. Please. It rules. (Y)