mrhelm

Seems to be a solid line-up, and the talent all makes sense for MLW. But what about Dark Fuego?

The first show seems blah to me, but then again, I'm not much of a fan of deathmatches. Hopefully, the next show will bring in a few high-flyers and technicians, not to mention some storyline.

The Recap: Velocity for August 14, 2004

Sakoda vs Nicho Millonario

Once again, Sakoda comes off as a solid strong style worker, taking it to Nicho Millonario. But Nicho overcomes Sakoda with his speed, and nearly takes down Sakoda several times in the matchup. But Sakoda uses an exposed turnbuckle to take out Nicho and get the roll up for the win.

Rating: ** 1/4. Solid match that show why both men deserve a chance at the tag titles.

-COMMERCIAL-

Rico and Miss Jackie are backstage with Mike Sanders. Rico rips in to Billy Gunn, saying that unlike Booker T last week, he'd take Gunn down in their match.

Torrie Wilson is backstage, watching an Orlando Jordan match when Mark Jindrak appears and makes a crude sexual reference. She backs off, but Jindrak keeps on her, until Orlando Jordan walks in. Orlando moves to attack Jindrak, but Torrie holds him back, allowing Mark Jindrak to run away.

Rico vs Billy Gunn

Billy Gunn turned in to a monster power wrestler in this match, just ripping apart Rico through the course of the mattch. But Miss Jackie climbs up to ringside and flashes some ass at Billy as a distraction. Rico hits a neckbreaker followed up by the Roundhouse Kick for the three count.

Rating: **. Too much Billy, not enough Rico. Hopefully, Rico will get some more exposure now that his former tag partner Charlie Haas is involved in a feud for the US title.

-COMMERCIAL-

Chavo Guerrero comes out to the ring, where he tells the fans he's proud of his cousin Eddie for getting another title shot at SummerSlam, but he thinks that he deserves more. His speech is interrupted by all three of the Dudleys who rip in to Chavo before landing a 3-D. Spike than grabbed the mic and promised he'd make an impact at SummerSlam.

-COMMERCIAL-

Orlando Jordan vs Mark Jindrak

Jordan is his typical self, taking every move that Jindrak can use against him. Out of nowhere, Jordan scores with a spear as Torrie Wilson comes to ringside to watch the action. Jindrak turns and makes a lewd gesture at Torrie, and this sets Orlando off. Orlando attacks with furious punches, than lands a snap suplex. He rolls through, landing two more suplexes, rolling over to dover after the third. 1... 2... 3, Jordan picks up his first win in months. Rene Dupree runs down to save his partner, but Orlando pulls Torrie to safety rather than fight.

Rating: ** 1/2. Out of nowhere Orlando Jordan seems to be getting a push. It will be interesting to see how much they develop his relationship with Torrie.

-COMMERCIAL-

Billy Kidman vs Bubba Ray Dudley

Bubba Ray attacks with full power in this match, but nothing he throws cann connect with the much faster Kidman. Kidman takes control with a missile dropkick, and eventually hits the Shooting Star Press for the three count.

Rating: **

Final Thoughts: Not as good as the past few weeks's Velocities, but still a solid show that helped promote the TLC match. Also it seems that Orlando Jordan and Rico are finally going to receive some TV time and a push, which can do nothing but help the somewhat weaker Smackdown roster.

Smackdown was solid, though the sudden push of Billy Gunn seems completely odd.

RAW wasn't nearly as good. The Bashams got squashed pointlessly in their debut, and why in the blue hell would Raven have been let out of his TNA contract?

And the name is Chris Benoit. B-e-n-O-I-t. That more than anything else distracted me from enjoyment of the RAW diary.

Velocity: Juventud debuted way too fast; should have been some hype as he was a popular former WCW star. Otherwise, just fine.

Friday, August 13, 2004

Everything is in place for SummerSlam, and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't excited. I'm a bit nervous too however, as I see this as a make or break moment for the show. Even so, I think that SummerSlam should deliver, and hopefully it will continue to draw interest back to Smackdown and Velocity.

Hopefully, Velocity should draw some attention as well, as it features the other four members of the TLC tag teams in singles matches. Not to mention the continuance of the Orlando Jordan/Torrie Wilson storyline I've started. Should be interesting to see how the fans like how that one plays out.

-Edited for stupid typo-

Smackdown from JHawk's Beak

August 12, 2004

Segment 1

Taped 8/10/2004. Smackdown opens with Vince McMahon's music. The WWE Owner heads down to the ring where he grabs a microphone. Vince says he's had some problems with one specific member of the roster in the last few weeks and that's why he feels its high time to teach that man a lesson. And who better to do it, than that man's former confident. That's why at SummerSlam we will see Kurt Angle take on Luther Reigns one on one! Kurt Angle interrupts the proceedings and informs Vince that he didn't want to take on Luther. He wants Vince one-on-one in the ring, and they'd settle this the old fashioned way. Vince seems to consider the idea for a moment, but it's only a distraction as Luther charges out of the back and hits Kurt from behind. Vince tells Kurt to get ready for his match tonight, as he'd be teaming with one of his least favorite people, John Cena, to take on Luther and Booker T!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

An all right setup for another PPV match, although one that seems a little bland to me. We'll see if WWE can get Luther in to ring shape in order to make this SummerSlam match work. The main event should be an interesting contest, as Angle/Cena have a less than stellar history with one another.

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Segment 2

Akio vs Paul London

London comes out of nowhere with a flying lariat. Head scissors takedown sends Akio to the mat. London gets a two count. Akio blocks a punch from London, than smacks London in the ribs with a kick. Running clothesline nearly takes London's head off. Akio covers but can't get past two on the count. Akio goes to the top rope, but London sidesteps his diving punch. Dragon suplex by Paul London. London scores with a flying cross body off the top. Cover, but Akio kicks out just before three. London tries to lock on a Boston Crab, but Akio powers his way to the works. Akio hits a kick to the gut of Paul London, than lands an X-Factor facecrusher on London. Akio drops to the mat, and both men are down. The ref beginst the ten count as Sakoda heads down to the ring. Both men in the ring begin to get to their feet. Akio moves to whip Paul London across the ring, but London reverses and Akio runs straight in to the ref. Sakoda slides in to the ring... and scores with a Roaring Elbow on Paul London! Akio goes to the top. Hang Time! Akio hooks the leg to get the three count on one half of the tag champions! Akio lifts London up so Sakoda can deliver more punishment, but Billy Kidman charges in to the ring to save his partner. **** rating.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

A very good match to help set up the TLC match at SummerSlam. Any chance to get Akio vs Paul London to occur should be instantly accepted by the WWE booking team. These two can seriously go, and I'd definitely like to see more matches like this one.

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Segment 3

Eddie Guerrero comes down to the ring, where he starts to cut a promo against WWE champion John Bradshaw Layfield. This brings JBL out to the ring. The two of them exchange a few words in the middle of the ring. JBL seems to back down... but suddenly comes out of nowhere with his belt. He clocks Guerrero across the forehead, laying out Eddie. John Bradshaw Layfield stands over the downed Guerrero, proudly displaying his title.

Josh Matthews catches up with Nunzio and Chuck Palumbo backstage. Josh asks Nunzio his opinions on facing Rey Mysterio and RVD in a tag team match later tonight. Nunzio just laughs and says he's managed to easily beat Rey Mysterio on numerous occasions, so why should he and Palumbo have to worry about anything. No, they had it all taken care of tonight.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

We've got one last angle to set up what is hopefully the final match between Eddie Guerrero and John Bradshaw Layfield. They kept the conflict out of the main event which is best, as the feud has been getting tired for a couple of months now. The Nunzio interview was a good solid heel promo, and it shows why Nunzio deserves to be cruiserweight champion.

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Segment 4

Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio vs Nunzio and Chuck Palumbo

Nunzio hits a drop toe hold on Rob Van Dam. He goes for a rear chin lock but RVD powers out. Nunzio tags out to Chuck Palumbo. Nunzio and Palumbo score with a double back drop. Chuck hits a brutal sideslam on RVD for a two count. Chuck goes for a right hand, but RVD ducks it, than scores with a kick to the gut. RVD scores with a leg lariat. RVD tags in Rey Mysterio. Mysterio comes off the top rope with a reverse elbow to Chuck Palumbo. Rey follows it up with a wheel kick for a two count. Nunzio tries to get in to the ring, and the ref moves to stop him, allowing Palumbo to score a low blow on Rey Mysterio. Gorilla Press Drop by Chuck Palumbo. Palumbo tags in Nunzio. Nunzio scores with a flying clothesline off the top rope. He covers, but Rey somehow gets the shoulder up. Nunzio sets the boots to Rey, but Rey powers to his feet. Rey scores with a running dropkick, which sends Nunzio in to the ropes. 619! He signals to RVD who goes to the top rope... Five Star Frog Splash! Van Dam rolls off Nunzio, allowing Rey to make the cover for the three count! *** 3/4 rating.

____________________________________________

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Another very good match setting up the second rematch between Rey Mysterio and Nunzio. It's a shame after a match like this that RVD doesn't even have a match at the PPV, but that doesn't effect the quality of this matchup. For a muscle man, Palumbo seems to be a solid old school heel. I doubt he'll ever have a chance to move much farther up the card than his current location, but he has the talent to be a solid midcarder for many years to come.

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Segment 5

Kurt Angle is backstage with Mike Sanders. Sanders first asks Kurt how he feels, and Kurt asks Sanders if he wanted a clothesline to the back of the head. Than he could tell Kurt exactly how good it feels. Sanders than asks how it will effect his match later tonight, where he will team with his long time nemesis John Cena to take on Luther Reigns and Booker T. Angle says he'll do exactly what he did when he competed in the Olympics with a broken frickin' neck, he'll win.

The Dudley Boyz are backstage. Spike congratulates Bubba and D-Von for scoring a chance at the tag titles at SummerSlam. Paul Heyman says not to worry, because he's got a feeling Spike will have something to do at SummerSlam too.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

Why is Mike Sanders an interviewer on Smackdown? He just appeared out of nowhere weeks ago and has remained a regular contributor since then. Does WWE have plans for him or has he been hired just to have yet another announcer?

The Angle promo was good, as usual. It solidifies him as a strong face competitor, and helped set up the main event nicely. The Dudleys angle seemed bland, but it did serve to set up their part in the TLC match on Sunday.

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Segment 6

We're backstage where Charlie Haas lies bleeding on the ground. EMTs are checking on him as Michael Cole takes us back to footage during the break, where Kenzo Suzuki brutally attacks Charlie with a steel chair backstage. The announcers rip in to Suzuki for his heinous attack.

D-Von Dudley vs Juventud Guerrera

Juventud scores with a dropkick and D-Von goes down. Juventud locks on a rear chinlock, but D-Von powers up to his feet and than drops down for a jawbreaker. D-Von scores with a sideslam on Juvi. Juventud ducks a clothesline, and D-Von takes out the ref. Juventud scores with a neckbreaker off the top rope, but there's no ref to make the three count. Tornado DDT by Juvi, and the ref recovers in time to make a two count. D-Von reverses a suplex in to one of his own. Running neckbreaker by D-Von. Full Nelson Slam by D-Von who makes the cover. Juvi kicks out just before three and D-Von can't believe it. D-Von moves in, but Juvi catches D-Von with a kick to the gut. Juvi Driver! Juventud covers for the three count. Bubba Ray Dudley charges out to the ring, but he's cut off by Nicho Millonario. Nicho gets a Bubba Bomb for his trouble, and D-Von attacks Juvi from behind. This allows the Dudleys to score with a 3-D on Juventud Guerrera. * 1/2 rating.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

This match makes me feel sorry for Juventud Guerrera and Nicho Millonario. I know they're capable of some amazing matches, but they're just going to be dragged down by the Dudley Boyz at the current rate. Hopefully, a tag title reign can lead to some matches against London & Kidman or Akio & Sakoda which should prove more fruitful.

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Segment 7

A video is played hyping the debut of Kid Kash next week on Smackdown.

The Smackdown announce team than turn things over to JR and the King who run down the RAW half of the Summerslam card:

Triple H vs Eugene

Hurricane & Rosey (w/ Animal) vs La Resistance for the World Tag Team titles

Trish Stratus vs Victoria for the Women's title

Edge vs Chris Jericho vs Batista for the IC title

Chris Benoit vs Randy Orton for the World Heavyweight title

We than get a rundown from Cole and Tazz:

John Cena vs Booker T

Kurt Angle vs Luther Reigns

TLC: London and Kidman vs the Dudley Boyz vs Akio & Sakoda vs Los Luchadores Loco

Rey Mysterio vs Nunzio for the Cruiserweight title

Hell in a Cell: John Bradshaw Layfield vs Eddie Guerrero

____________________________________________

Not much to say here. It will be interesting to see if Kash can behave himself backstage. The SummerSlam card looks excellent from both show. Should be interesting to see if they can pull off some great matches on the card.

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Segment 8

Luther Reigns and Booker T vs John Cena and Kurt Angle

Booker T lays in to John Cena with lefts and rights. Sideslam by Booker T. Booker tags out to Luther and the pair hit a double clothesline. Luther covers, but Cena kicks out at two. Powerslam by Luther just seems to crush John Cena. Luther lifts Cena up and seems to go for a piledriver, but Cena reverses it in to a backdrop. John Cena limps over to his corner, where he stares down Kurt Angle for a second before tagging his partner in. Angle scores with a back suplex on Luther that gets a two count. Luther kicks Angle in the gut, than scores with a clothesline. Luther tags out to Booker T. Stiff chops by Booker light up Kurt Angle. Flying tackle by Booker. Booker pushes Angle in to the ropes, but he gets too close and Cena scores with a blind tag. John Cena comes in and lays out Booker with a clothesline. Luther comes in and gets a clothesline as well. Booker spinaroonies to his feet behind Cena, than scores with a kick to the gut. Scissors Kick by Booker T. Booker rolls in to the cover for the three count. Kurt Angle charges in to the ring, and sends Booker over the top rope with a clothesline. Luther charges in with a clothesline, but Angle ducks under, and grabs Luther's ankle to trip him to the mat. Angle hooks on the Ankle Lock, and Luther screams in pain as Smackdown comes to a close. * 1/2 rating.

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END OF SHOW

A decent final match that sets up two feuds for SummerSlam. John Cena vs Booker T could prove to be the sleeper that burns up the PPV, but we're have to wait and see. Luther still seems somewhat green to be in a match with Angle, but I'll give him the benefit of a doubt in this one. Hopefully, he'll prove me wrong with a solid in ring performance.

Wednesday, August 11, 2004

While not the attention builders that TLC and Hell in a Cell are, I think John Cena/Booker T and Rey Mysterio/Nunzio could be barn burners as JR might say. Along with Kurt Angle vs Luther Reigns, I think we've got a solid card on the Smackdown side. Hopefully, everyone involved will put on a command performance. I'd love to see SummerSlam draw a larger buy-rate as the show has some great matches booked.

Tuesday, August 10, 2004

My first pre-PPV show came off without any major glitches. I booked quite a lot towards the TLC, trying to show Akio & Sakoda and Los Luchadores Loco in action on the A show before their pay-per-view debuts.

Smackdown Preview for August 12

SummerSlam is only three days away and that means only three days to Eddie Guerrero vs John Bradshaw Layfield facing off in Hell in a Cell! Will JBL and the Axis Powers try to cement a victory by assaulting Latino Heat? With the Axis Powers together on Smackdown anything is possible.

Also we'll see four of the participants of the explosive TLC match come together in singles matches before their huge match at SummerSlam. Akio will face one-half of the tag team champions, Paul London, while Juventud Guerrera will go one-on-one with D-Von Dudley! With the brutal match in just three days, will these four men take it easy, or will they try to gain an advantage by taking it to the competition tonight?

Plus, John Cena and Kurt Angle will form an uneasy partnership to take on Booker T and Luther Reigns, plus Rey Mysterio and Rob Van Dam will team up against the former FBI, Nunzio and Chuck Palumbo.

Smackdown looks to be almost as explosive as SummerSlam, so don't forget to tune in Thursday night, only on UPN!

Monday, August 9, 2004

I've received some grumbles from the writers of RAW about Smackdown featuring two gimmick matches on Sunday's show. I questioned it myself, but I feel a strong gimmick match was necessary to bring Eddie and JBL to an end once and for all, while TLC can cement the four teams participating as the new faces of the tag division. All four teams are great competitors, and I believe that all of them can shine in the matchup.

But I think the most important reason for the two big gimmick bouts are that Smackdown still needs them. The show's improved drastically over the last six weeks, but the brand just doesn't have the massive star power of RAW. Within another month or so I feel that it can be, but with SummerSlam we really needed to focus on getting the fan's attention again. Even doing Eddie/Bradshaw again could prove to be hard to get over, but I think the pair can make it work.

The Recap: Velocity

Moore Hott (Shannon Moore and Scotty 2 Hotty) vs the Basham Brothers

Scotty 2 Hotty and Shannon Moore take it to the much heavier veterans in the early goings of this conflict, but the Bashams strength and pure brutality proved too much for Moore Hott as the match continued. Doug Basham ultimately picked up the win after landing a spinebuster from the second rope on Scotty 2 Hotty.

Rating: ** 1/4. Solid match. The Bashams continue to be impressive in the ring.

-Commercial-

Booker T is backstage with Mike Sanders. He ripped in to both Rico, who he will face tonight, and John Cena, who he promised to destroy come SummerSlam.

Orlando Jordan is backstage where he is chatting with Rico. Rico leaves to prepare for his match, and Torrie Wilson walks up to Orlando. She tells Orlando that she's seen him in the ring, and she likes what she sees. She rubs a hand across Orlando Jordan's chest as she walks away.

-Commercial-

Booker T vs Rico (w/ Miss Jackie)

Rico looked good in his first match after returning from an injury, taking it to the five time World champion Booker T. The match continued onwards though, and Booker T gained control. Booker beat Rico down mercilessly, but refused to make the pin. Booker gets ready for a Scissors Kick when John Cena charges down to the ring. Cena whips Booker T around and starts punching. The ref calls for the bell just as Cena kicks Booker in the gut and hoists him up. F-U on Booker T! Cena trash talks over Booker T as Velocity goes to commercial.

Rating: * 1/2. A solid if unspectacular match.

-Commercial-

Mike Sanders catches up with Rob Van Dam backstage. Cena cuts a short rhyme about Booker, calling him a bitch and saying he'll beat him come SummerSlam.

Rob Van Dam is seen heading to the ring, ready for his match against former friend Spike Dudley.

-Commercial-

Rob Van Dam vs Spike Dudley

Rob Van Dam seemed reluctant to fight his much smaller former friend, but Spike showed no such remorse. Spike attacked RVD with every dirty trick in the book. Rob Van Dam had no choice but to retaliate, and he takes control of the match. Spike ducks a clothesline and the referee goes down, allowing Bubba Ray Dudley to run down and hit RVD from behind. D-Von Dudley joins him and the pair hit the 3-D on Rob Van Dam. They slide out of the ring as Spike makes the cover. The ref recovers just in time to make the three count.

Rating: *. Nothing special but it serves to cement Spike Dudley as a heel.

Paul Heyman joins all three of the Dudley Boyz in the ring. He rips in to Rob Van Dam, saying that the Dudley Boyz are now an unstoppable force ripping through Smackdown and RVD was just their first victim.

We go backstage where we see Theodore Long psyching up Mark Jindrak and Rene Dupree, the Bombshells, before their match with London and Kidman.

-Commercial-

Billy Kidman and Paul London © vs The Bombshells for the WWE Tag Team titles

The much bigger and stronger team, the Bombshells, seemed to have this match well in hand, but the tag team champions refused to stay down. The Bombshells ripped in to Billy Kidman for several minutes, but Kidman woudln't stay down. Kidman finally gets to his corner after landing an enzuigiri. London comes in and takes it to Rene Dupree. Paul London takes Dupree down to the mat witha Russian leg sweep, than picks up the win with the London Calling.

Rating: ** 1/2

Akio and Sakoda come running out of the back and attack the tag team champins as they clebrate. They nail Paul London with the Double DDT, than Sakoda launches Kidman face first in to the ring post. Akio and Sakoda hold up the tag team titles as if to promise a victory at SummerSlam!

Final Thoughts: A good solid show. Both the opening and main event tag matches were solid, while RVD/Spike and Booker T/Rico continued two storylines from last week's Smackdown. And the angle with Orlando Jordan and Torrie Wilson seems set up perfectly to finally give Jordan some kind of push.

Smackdown from JHawk's Beak

August 5, 2004

http://www.thesmartmarks.com

Segment 1

Taped 8/3/2004. The show opens with an all new entrance theme, and out from the back emerges William Regal in suit and tie. Regal heads to the ring, where he informs us that he is the new general manager of Smackdown. He says he will not sit idly by as the superstars run amuck as Kurt Angle did, he will take action. Already he has booked a huge main event, pitting Eddie Guerrero and Charlie Haas vs John Bradshaw Layfield and Kenzo Suzuki. Not only that, but he's also booked a number one contenders match for Paul London and Billy Kidman's tag team titles and it's right now!

One fall for the #1 contendership to the WWE Tag Team titles: Los Luchadores Loco vs Akio and Sakoda

Juvi gets caught in a full nelson by Sakoda, who lands a dragon suplex. Juvi slips out of a waistlock by Sakoda, than scores with a drop toe hold. Guerrera scores with a quick elbow from the second rope. Tag between Juvi and Nicho Millonario. Millonario scores with a flying neckbreaker. Nicho goes for a clothesline, but Sakoda sidesteps and scores with a clothesline. Sakoda tags out to Akio. Akio scores with a kick right to Nicho Millonario's jaw. Hard back suplex on Nicho. Nicho powers out of leg lock by getting to the ropes. Akio blocks a kick, but gets hit by an enzuigiri. Nicho dives to his corner to tag in Juventud Guerrera. Guerrera scores with a slingshot clothesline, but can only get two on the pin fall. Akio scores with an eye rake, than dives to his own corner to tag in Sakoda. Sakoda goes for a Samoan drop, but gets a flying head scissors instead. Nicho and Sakoda begin to trade blows, when Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley charge in to the ring. The Dudleys attack both Nicho and Sakoda, laying both men out. Juventud and Akio come running in, but Akio gets sent over the top rope, while Guerrera receives a 3D. The ref calls for the bell and a no contest, but the Dudleys have already laid waist to the competitors in the ring. *** 1/4. Very good high flying match up.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

A very good match to warm up the crowd featuring much cruiserweight goodness. Sakoda looks like he's actually learned how to work in the ring as well, which comes as a bit of a surprise. I'd rather not have either of these teams be jobbed out to the Dudleys however.

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Segment 2

Vince McMahon comes out to the ring, where he then calls out a man who did the right thing last Saturday night on Velocity, Billy Gunn. Billy's music hits and he comes down to the ring, where he tells us that Hardcore Holly was worthless as a partner. Only because of his repeated experience in tag team competition were their team even able to pick up a win. But those days are past, and Billy's got Vincent K. McMahon to thank for that. That's why he's agreed to do Vince a favor by destroying Kurt Angle in his in ring return tonight!

John Cena vs Jamie Noble

John Cena scores with a running clothesline to Jamie Noble. Scoop and slam plants Noble. John Cena goes for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but Noble rolls out of the way. Noble scores with a basement dropkick to the knee. Snap suplex, and Noble covers for a two count. John Cena elbows Jamie Noble to free himself from a hammerlock. Cena scores with a shoulder back toss. He covers, but Noble comes up just after two. Reverse suplex by John Cena, but Noble comes up at two yet again. Noble blocks another suplex attempt, than scores with a clothesline. Cena doesn't go down, so Noble backs up and goes for another one, but Cena ducks under, than scores with a big boot on Noble's return trip. Cena lifts Noble up on to his shoulders, than scores with the F-U. He makes the cover for the three count. As soon as the bell rings, Booker T runs in from the crowd, whips Cena around, than scores with the Book End. * 1/4.

Booker T grabs a microphone and he says he wants to finish John Cena once and for all, and challenges him to a match at SummerSlam. Cena agrees and tells Booker T that his ass is grass.

____________________________________________

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A solid segment that sets up the SummerSlam match rather well. Gunn's heel turn seems less than interesting, but Kurt Angle's return to ring work should be good.

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Segment 3

Akio and Sakoda and Los Luchadores Loco are already in new general manager William Regal's office, complaining about the non-finish to their #1 contendership match earlier in the evening. Regal tells them that he's come up with a fair decision to determine the tag team champions at SummerSlam. We will see Kidman and London take on the team of Juventud Guerrera and Nicho Millonario, Los Luchadores Loco, Japanese sensations Akio and Sakoda AND Bubba Ray and D-Von the Dudley Boyz, but it won't be in just any match; no, it will be in a Tables, Ladders, and Chairs Match!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

This should be an interesting match to see at SummerSlam. Whether or not the three new teams can pull off the same kind of spectacle that the Dudleys, Hardys and Edge & Christian put on should be interesting.

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Segment 4

One fall: Kurt Angle vs Billy Gunn

Angle and Gunn lock up as the match gets underway. Angle gets the advantage and scores with a pair of chps across the chest of Billy Gunn. Snap suplex by Angle. Angle pulls Gunn back up, and this time scores with the belly-to-belly suplex. Angle covers but Gunn comes out after two. Kurt yanks Billy to his feet, but Gunn kicks Angle in the gut to free himself. Billy hits the ropes, than scores a clothesline on Kurt Angle. Gunn lifts Kurt up, than slams him back to the mat. He covers, but only gets two. Angle steps away from a Famouser attempt, than scores with a German suplex. Angle bridges but Gunn gets out just before three. Angle swings wildly, and Gunn ducks under. Gunn scores with a side slam. Gunn lifts Angle up to go for a piledriver, but Angle wraps both arms around Gunn's foot, than flips him over and in to the Ankle Lock! Gunn tries to power up, but Angle refuses to let him move, and Billy has no choice but to tap out. Kurt Angle celebrates in the ring, but Luther Reigns starts his way down from the back. Angle beckons at Luther to bring it, but Billy Gunn scores with a double axe handle from behind. Luther comes in to the ring, where he lands the Reign Fall. * 1/4 rating.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

A solid return match for Kurt, although nothing too spectacular. Gunn put on the same boring match he's done so many times before.

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Segment 5

A video plays as we return from break, telling us Kid Kash will make his debut in just two weeks.

Michael Cole and Tazz run down the history of Rey Mysterio and Nunzio who will meet tonight in a rematch for the cruiserweight title. They inform us that GM Regal has banned members of the Axis Powers from ringside to guarantee a fair competition. That match is up next.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

We'll see if Kid Kash proves to be less of a problem child in WWE.

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Segment 6

One fall for the WWE Cruiserweight championship: Rey Mysterio vs Nunzio © (w/ Dawn Marie)

Nunzio scores with an arm drag, and he locks on an arm bar to keep Mysterio on the mat. Mysterio powers up, and Nunzio scores with a wicked chop. Dragon suplex on Rey Mysterio! Nunzio pulls Rey to his feet, but Rey flies up and scores a head scissors takedown on Nunzio. Rey bounces off the ropes to land a dropkick on Nunzio. Cover, but it only gets two. Rey goes for a facecrusher, but Nunzio reverses it in to a sideslam. Nunzio lights up Mysterio with a trio of chops, than scores with a vertical suplex in to a cover for a two count. Nunzio goes to the second rope and scores with a flying clothesline on Mysterio. Nunzio covers but Rey throws the shoulder up just before three. Nunzio goes for a slam, but Mysterio reverses it in to a Tornado DDT. Mysterio whips Nunzio in to position, than scores with the 619. Dawn Marie comes in to the ring as Mysterio lands the Drop the Dime. The ref deals with Dawn Marie as a man emerges from the crow to score a massive backbreaker on Rey. The man lifts Rey up, than scores with a massive boot as we realize it's none other than Chuck Palumbo. Palumbo rolls Rey back in to the ring, allowing Nunzio to make the cover for the three count. Nunzio and Palumbo continue to kick the downed Mysterio until Rob Van Dam charges to the ring to make the save, *** 1/4 rating.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

A very solid cruiserweight title match. Nunzio's really getting to shine in the division, and hopefully he'll be given continued prominence as a cruiserweight. Palumbo's return was a bit of a surprise, but he definitely fits in to the Axis Powers's structure.

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Segment 7

Chuck Palumbo congratulates Nunzio when John Bradshaw Layfield and Kenzo Suzuki arrive to congratulate him as well. The trio welcome Palumbo to the Axis Powers at the same time. William Regal interrupts them, however, and says that Palumbo's interference has earned Rey Mysterio another shot at the cruiserweight title, this time at SummerSlam!

We go to Eddie Guerrero next, whose backstage with Josh Matthews. Josh asks Eddie his thoughts about tonight's tag team competition. Eddie tells Josh he doesn't fear Bradshaw one bit, because at SummerSlam he will regain his WWE title. But tonight, he and his homes Charlie Haas plan on teaching the Axis Powers another lesson.

____________________________________________

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Good set up for both a match at SummerSlam and the main event. Should be interesting to see how both play out.

____________________________________________

Segment 8

Tag team match scheduled for one fall: Eddie Guerrero and Charlie Haas vs WWE champion John Bradshaw Layfield and United States champion Kenzo Suzuki (w/ Hiroko)

Eddie Guerrero comes out of nowhere with a flying neckbreaker on Kenzo Suzuki. Eddie follows up with a kick to the midsection, right in to a vertical suplex. Guerrero tags in Charlie Haas, who comes off the top rope with an elbow. Charlie lifts Suzuki up and scores with a Dragon suplex. He covers but gets only two on the pin. Kenzo avoids a kick, than scores with a clothesline. Suzuki tags out to JBL. Bradshaw scores with a scoop slam on Charlie Haas. Big boot by JBL. Bradshaw covers, but Haas is out after 2. Haas blocks a punch, than scores with a dropkick on JBL. Tag between Haas and Eddie Guerrero. Eddie scores with his triple verticals on Bradshaw. He signals for the Frog Splash, but Kenzo runs in and clotheslines him. Haas follows Suzuki in, and scores with a belly-to-belly suplex. Guerrero lays a couple of punches in to JBL, but Bradshaw ducks the third, than scores with a stiff punch of his own. JBL scores with a Fallaway slam. He covers, and Kenzo Suzuki holds down Guerrero's feet! The ref doesn't see it and he makes the three count. Charlie Haas rushes in to help Eddie, but gets hit by a Clothesline from Hell for his trouble. Bradshaw and Kenzo beat down Eddie as Smackdown goes off the air. ** 1/2.

____________________________________________

END OF SHOW

A solid show which served as a solid build-up to SummerSlam. We've got three more matches set-up, plus development on the feuds that are already booked. The Eddie/JBL blowoff match seems ready to go, and any card that features a TLC match and a Hell in the Cell seems ready to be insane.

Wednesday, August 4, 2004

Both of the debuts came off without a hitch last night. The new GM fit in to his role perfectly, but his previous experience as Commissioner a few years back assuredly helped. I think he'll blend in well with the more technically proficient wrestlers on Smackdown as well.

I will be paying a visit to Ohio Valley Wrestling at the end of the week, and hopefully, I'll see some good progress by some of the recruits in development. I'm hoping for one or two of them to be ready to make their debuts by sometime next month.

Tuesday, August 3, 2004

I sat down with Torrie Wilson today, and we discussed her current position with the company. She's very upset about not having any place on the program for weeks, and the incident with Sable last week just drove home the point. I've promised to work her back in to the storyline post-SummerSlam, most likely in to Kurt Angle's post-SummerSlam feud.

Smackdown Preview for August 5

A jam-packed Smackdown comes your way as SummerSlam is just ten day away! Perhaps the biggest news is the debut of a new General Manager to Smackdown. Who will take the new position of power with the brand? Only Vince McMahon knows for certain!

Two big matches have already been signed for tonight's show! First, newcomers Los Luchadores Loco will collide with the team of Akio and Sakoda, and the winners will receive a shot at Billy Kidman and Paul London's WWE tag team titles at Summerslam. Plus, the Cruiserweight title is on the line, as Rey Mysterio receives a rematch with the Axis Power's Nunzio. Kenzo Suzuki and John Bradshaw Layfield have been banned from ringside. Can Nunzio pull off the victory without his allies in the Axis Powers to aide him?

All this, plus appearance by all the Smackdown stars, this Thursday night, only on UPN!

Monday, August 2, 2004

Not a lot to report today. I learned I was receiving a raise today, as Vince is quite happy with the rebound I've given to Smackdown's ratings. He tried to convince me to move over and start booking RAW, but I politely refused. Smackdown's my baby, and I plan on taking care of it.

Vince, however, seems very worried about the current decline in company business, as TNA seems to be proving itself as an alternative, although a still relatively unknown one. Impact's been steadily increasing in the ratings since mid-July, so we're keeping a close eye on them here. I personally don't see them as much of a threat right now, but they definitely have the potential to become a strong competitor in the next five years.

I have a meeting with Torrie Wilson tomorrow before the show. Apparently, she's been unhappy with her televised role (i.e. nothing) as of late.

The Recap: Velocity July 31

Vince McMahon comes down to the ring as the show opens, much like he did on Smackdown. He announces that tonight we will see the veterans, the Hardasses, take on the rookie team of Mark Jindrak and Rene Dupree, the Bombshells, once again tonight. But Vince doesn't want hasbeens in his company, so if the Hardasses lose, they will no longer have a job with Smackdown or WWE!

Chavo Guerrero vs Orlando Jordan

Believe it or not Orlando has an offensive arsenal, as he landed a few punches and a snap suplex on Chavo in the early goings of this match. But as the match progressed, Chavo continued to work the back and the leg of Orlando Jordan, ultimately forcing the bigger man to tap out to the Low Rider.

Rating: **. Orlando Jordan continues to be absolutely worthless for anything other than a jobber. It was good to see Chavo pick up the clean win however.

Shannon Moore and Scotty 2 Hotty are backstage in their locker room, hanging out, chatting about their debut match as a tag team tonight against Akio and Sakoda.

Moore Hott (Shannon Moore and Scotty 2 Hotty) vs Akio and Sakoda

The new team of Shannon Moore and Scotty 2 Hotty came off really well in this matchup, as even Scotty looks like he's in place with the other cruisers in the match. Scotty 2 Hotty goes for the Worm early in the match, but Sakoda stops him with a Roaring Elbow. Shannon Moore later sets up Sakoda for the Mooregasm, but Kenzo Suzuki's valet runs down to ringside and begins yanking on his pants. It's all the distraction, Akio needs as he lands a kick right to the gut of Shannon Moore. Akio holds Moore, and Sakoda delivers another Roaring Elbow to Moore to pick up the three count.

Rating: ***. A solid competition and a very good cruiserweight tag bout. Sakoda seems to finally be showing his stuff, and Akio shines in the matchup. It seems to appear that Akio and Sakoda may be the next recruits of the Axis Powers, but how that story plays out remains to be seen.

Spike Dudley is relaxing in the locker room area when the Dudley Boyz and Paul Heyman enter. The Dudleys give Spike an ultimatum. He's either with them or against them. And he knew what would happen if he were against them. They say they know he'll do the right thing in the next match, as they're banned from ringside.

Rob Van Dam vs Luther Reigns

Reigns hits some nasty power moves in the early goings of the match, but they fail to slow down RVD much. The Whole Dam Show takes it to the bigger man, hitting a Rolling Thunder to pick up a two count. Finally, he goes to the top rope for the Five Star Frog Splash, but he hesitates when Spike Dudley comes down to ringside. He hops off and tells Spike to head to the back, he doesn't want him out here, and the distraction is all the time Luther needs. Reigns lands the Reign Fall to pick up the three count on RVD.

Rating: * 1/4. Continued build up in the RVD vs Dudleys feud. Perhaps we'll see RVD/Spike vs the Dudleys in the coming weeks?

We see a recap of the Rey Mysterio/Nunzio feud of the last several weeks before we get the hype for the rematch this week on Smackdown.

Hardasses vs The Bombshells

The Hardasses took it to the Bombshells as they needed this win to stay with the company. Jindrak and Dupree eventually took control, wearing Billy Gunn down. But Gunn stayed alive, ultimately landing a DDT on Dupree to even things out. Hardcore Holly comes in off the hot tag, and he just rips in to Mark Jindrak. Hardcore Holly gets Jindrak locked in to a Full Nelson, but before Jindrak can tap he gets kicked from behind. He turns around, only to receive a kick to the gut by Billy Gunn, his own partner! Gunn bounces off the ropes and scores with the Famouser on Holly, before walking away to allow Jindrak to make the cover and the pin. Vince McMahon than appeared on the entrance ramp, where he told Hardcore to pack his bags, because he was FIRED!

Rating: ***. The rumors of Hardcore Holly's impending release seem to be true, as the Hardasses feud with the Bombshells comes to an end. Billy Gunn is now an obvious heel, so it will be interesting to see how this plays out in the upcoming weeks.

Final Thoughts: It's interesting to note that with the loss of Hardcore and the turn of Gunn, only Rob Van Dam, Eddie Guerrero, Orlando Jordan and, it seems, Kurt Angle, remain as heavyweight faces. Again, Velocity came off as a solid B show, as it continued its own storylines while working to build up its pre-existing talent. Akio & Sakoda have shined in recent weeks; hopefully, we'll see them get a Smackdown push in the near future.

Friday, July 30, 2004

I was really impressed by how Smackdown came out this week and apparently so was America if the overnights are any indication. It looks like we broke 4.0 and by a pretty large margin.

My pick for GM has called some grumbles backstage as several people are unhappy about a RAW superstar being brought in to fill the position. I defend it by saying that I'd rather keep the Smackdown stars where I'm building them too, as opposed to another non-wrestling role. Howevere, along with that steal and the other surprise debut for next week, Vince has informed me that he's moving a full stable from RAW to Smackdown in the near future. I still haven't came up with a solid role for the group, but hopefully I will invent something in the next few weeks before they debut.

The Royal Treatment: Smackdown! July 29, 2004

Previously Recorded

Vince McMahon comes to the ring as we kick off Smackdown. He grabs a mic, and says that to start he will have an announcement on the new General Manager of Smackdown next week. However, he still has some business to get down to tonight. We'll see the contract signing for the Hell in a Cell match between Eddie Guerrero and John Bradshaw Layfield later tonight, but first we will see Eddie Guerrero go one on one with Booker T! And we will see the debut of a tag team that will amaze the fans of WWE, Los Luchadores Loco, Juventud Guerrera and Nicho Millanario! Plus, a rematch between the Dudleys and the new tag team champions Billy Kidman and Paul London! And already booked for this evening is a match pitting Rey Mysterio & Charlie Haas vs Nunzio & Kenzo Suzuki of the Axis Powers. But next week, we will see Rey Mysterio and Nunzio go one on one to determine which will be the Cruiserweight champion.

Eddie Guerrero vs Booker T

Eddie and Booker size each other up. Booker lands a left and right, than back body drops Guerrero over his shoulder. Stiff high kick on Booker by Eddie changes the momentum. Eddie goes to whip Booker in to the corner... but Booker reverses the move! Eddie slams in to the turnbuckle and drops to the mat. But wait, out of the crowd, comes John Cena. Cena pulls the chain from off his neck and clocks Booker T right in the face with it. The ref calls for the bell and declares Booker the winner by disqualification. But Cena isn't done. He lifts Booker up, than drops him to the mat with an F-U!

Rating: 2/10.

Thoughts: Not enough of a match to judge how good it could really be.

-Commercial-

During the break, we see Eddie Guerrero come backstage from his earlier match, only to get attacked from behind by John Bradshaw Layfield with a steel chair! JBL takes Eddie out with the chair, and leaves him down on the ground. JBL yells that he would kill Eddie Guerrero before he signed a contract for Hell in the Cell! As we return back live, we see EMTs working on Guerrero who appears seriously hurt.

The Basham Brothers come out to the ring, where they rip in to Juventud Guerrera and Nicho Millanario, the debuting Los Luchadores Loco. They say they can beat any tag team in WWE, and they will just wet their chops on these shrimps. And that match is up next!

-Commercials-

Los Luchadores Loco vs the Basham Brothers

Danny walks in to a dropkick by Juventud Guerrera. Guerrera springs off the ropes and scores with a flying neckbreaker. He hooks the leg, but Danny's out after a quick two. Juvi tags in Nicho Millonario. Juvi scoops up Danny Basham and Nicho scores with a clothesline. He hooks the leg and gets another two. The former Psychoisis scores with a dropkick on Danny. Danny elbows Nicho in the face before another pin attempt, than scores with a slingshot. Massive backbreaker on Nicho Millonario leads to a two count. Danny tags out to his brother Doug. Doug hooks Nicho in a gut wrench, right in to a powerbomb. 1... 2... and Nicho slips a foot on the ropes! Doug Basham snap suplexes Nicho half way across the ring! Doug moves in, but gets a drop toe hold by Nicho. Nicho rolls Doug over in to a Mexican surfboard, but Doug lands a couple of week punches and than an elbow to break the hold. Both men are down and head to their respective corners. Juventud Guerrera and Danny Basham come in simultaneously, and Juvi scores with a back heel kick on Danny Basham. Juvi hits a rolling kick on Danny... than yanks Danny to his feet. Here it comes... Juvi Driver! Doug rushes in to help his brother, but Nicho comes off the top rope with a suicide dive! Juventud covers for the three count to pick up the win for Los Luchadores Loco in their debut match!

Rating: 7.5/10

Thoughts: I didn't know the Bashams had it in them, but they put on an amazing showing against the debuting team tonight. Juventud and Nicho seem to really have stepped up their game, harkening back to their glory days in WCW. It will be interesting to see if they receive the Rey Mysterio style push or if they will disappear a la Ultimo Dragon.

-Commercial-

A messenger is shown coming to the locker room of John Bradshaw Layfield, insisting that he come to the office of Vince McMahon.

Kurt Angle appears live via satellite. He tells the fans that he's done some bad things in his last few months as GM, but nothing he did ranked as large as a mistake as allowing John Bradshaw Layfield to take power over the show. Now, he's been removed from his general manager position, but after last week's show he petitioned the WWE Board of Directors to reinstate him as an active wrestler. They have agreed to do so, and next week, Kurt Angle will return to Smackdown, and he plans on showing JBL, Kenzo Suzuki, and Vince McMahon why you don't mess with an Olympic Gold Medalist!

Paul Heyman and the Dudley Boyz are standing by with Mike Sanders. Heyman told Sanders that last week was just a fluke, and that is why tonight, the Dudley Boyz will regain their tag team titles by beating Kidman and London, a team not even worthy to shine the Dudley Boyz's boots.

-Commercial-

Kidman and London © vs the Dudley Boyz in a rematch for the WWE Tag Team Championship

Kidman scores with a basement dropkick to the knee of Bubba Ray Dudley. Huracanrana by Kidman! Kidman tags out to Paul London, and the two score with a double suplex! London covers, but Bubba is out after two. London scores with a facecrusher, than tags back out to Billy Kidman. London scoops up Bubba allowing Kidman to land a Hart Attack clothesline. Pin, but Bubba comes out just before three. Bubba ducks under a clothesline by Kidman, than runs to his corner to tag in D-Von! Clothesline to Kidman. D-Von scores with a neckbreaker on Billy Kidman. D-Von tags in Bubba Ray and the duo go for the 3-D, but London has it well scouted, and scores with a dropkick to the knee of D-Von Dudley to break up the move. Bubba whips London over the top rope, than scores with a series of rights. He starts his little dance, but Kidman ducks the final blow! Kidman scores with a flipping neckbreaker off the second rope, and both men need to make the tag. Bubba gets to D-Von and he comes running in, just as Kidman tags in Paul London! London comes in ON FIRE! Punch to D-Von, and a high elevation dropkick to Bubba Ray. London scores with a flying head scissors on D-Von, but gets attacked from behind by Bubba Ray. Kidman goes to the top rope and scores with a missile dropkick to Bubba Ray Dudley. London scoops and slams D-Von, before going to the top rope. London Calling! He hooks the leg for the three count! Paul London and Billy Kidman celebrate their victory in the ring!

Rating: 7/10

Thoughts: Simply an amazing match with the Dudleys putting a great deal of effort in to putting over the new tag team champions. All the spots came off perfectly, and WWE doesn't seem to be attempting to stifle the high flyers as it has in the past.

-Commercial-

John Bradshaw Layfield walks in to the office of Vince McMahon, where he's told that his attack on Eddie Guerrero was despicable. Vince tells him that if Eddie Guerrero shows up for the contract signing tonight, he WILL sign the contract for the match with Guerrero at SummerSlam or he will find himself out of a job. And if he interferes in the upcoming match featuring his allies Kenzo Suzuki and Nunzio vs Charlie Haas and Rey Mysterio, he will find himself stripped of his title!

A video plays hyping the debut of the next big money star of WWE... Kid Kash! He'll be their in just three weeks!

-Commercial-

Rey Mysterio and Charlie Haas vs Kenzo Suzuki and Nunzio (w/ Hiroko and Dawn Marie)

Charlie Haas scores with a chop across the chest of Kenzo Suzuki. He hits the ropes and scores with a flying dropkick. Haas hooks the leg, but Kenzo is out at two. Haas tags out to Rey Mysterio. Rey goes to the top as Haas lifts Kenzo up and drops him chest first on the ropes. Rey comes off the top, scoring a leg drop across the back of Suzuki. Rey covers, but Hiroko moves in and puts Suzuki's foot on the rope. Kenzo staggers to his feet. Rey goes for a flying head scissors, but Kenzo reverses it in to a side slam. Kenzo throws Rey back in to his corner, where he tags in Nunzio. Nunzio puts the boots to Rey, before choking him in the corner. He pulls Rey up and scores a snap suplex. Nunzio goes to the top rope. He dives off with a leg drop, but Rey rolls out of the way. Nunzio crashes to the mat and both men are down. Nunzio makes the tag to Kenzo Suzuki, but Rey tags in Charlie Haas as well. Charlie comes in on fire and scores with punch after punch on Kenzo, dazing the bigger man. High angle back suplex on Kenzo Suzuki! Nunzio comes charging in, but Haas dodges his blow and he flies over the top rope. Hiroko and Dawn Marie move to help him up, but Rey Mysterio comes off the top rope with a diving cross body on all three! Haas moves in on Kenzo and locks on the Haas of Pain. Kenzo taps out to the Haas of Pain!

Rating: 5.5/10

Thoughts: Another big victory in the push of Charlie Haas. It looks like WWE may be moving him in to a US title feud while moving John Cena on to take on Booker T. Seems like a good call as neither Cena nor Booker really need the title, while both Haas and Suzuki can receive some shine from it.

-Commercial-

Vince McMahon's music once again hits and he comes out to the ring, now covered with a red carpet and featuring a table with two clipboards upon it. Vince picks up the first clipboard as John Bradshaw Layfield comes out to ring side. He hands the board to JBL, than calls out Eddie Guerrero. Guerrero doesn't respond, and Vince says that Guerrero has one minute to come out to the ring or he would forfeit his title shot at SummerSlam. The clock ticks down to about fifteen seconds, before Eddie Guerrero comes running out of the crowd. Guerrero hits JBL from behind, than scores with his trio of vertical suplexes. Guerrero goes to the top rope and scores with the Frog Splash. He just smiles as he saunters over to Vince and takes the clipboard, signing his name. He than grabs the other clipboard and drops it on to the prone chest of JBL as his music begins to play. He grabs the WWE title, and walks around the ring, proudly displaying his new gold!

Thoughts: A decent build-up to Hell in a Cell without resorting to yet another bland JBL match. And Eddie actually ending an episode of Smackdown on top, something that hasn't happened for several weeks.

Final Thoughts: A thoroughly excellent show featuring three solid matches and good build-ups to Cena/Booker, Eddie/JBL, and Rey/Nunzio. In a month's time, Smackdown has really made an effort to turn things around and it shows in this show. Hopefully, we'll see more like it.

July 28, 2004

Happy birthday to me! I took the day off to celebrate, although the revelry was interrupted by some bad news.

It seems Sable and Torrie Wilson got in to yet another shouting match backstage after Smackdown, and the decision has been made to let Sable sit out the remainder of her contract. I've under-used the divas at best as it stands, so I doubt it should effect the product much at all.

Anyway, enough journal today, on with the fun!

Tuesday, July 27, 2004

I sat down with Vince and the booking team and we've came up with a rather satisfactory solution to the Hardcore Holly situation that will write him out of the show and allow Billy Gunn to continue with the promotion.

Smackdown Preview for July 29

Vince McMahon returned last week with on Smackdown with a Vengeance, firing General Manager Kurt Angle for his ineffective managing of the brand's Superstars. Vince returns this week, working as acting GM until he finds a suitable replacement for Kurt Angle. What plans does Vince have for the stars of Smackdown?

Already booked for Thursday night is former Cruiserweight champion Rey Mysterio and Charlie Haas vs a team consisting of the Cruiserweight and United States champions, Nunzio and Kenzo Suzuki. Will the Axis Powers prove victorious do to their cheating tactics, or will Mysterio and Haas finally be able to hand a loss to the Powers?

But Kurt Angle will not remain silent this week. He will make a special apperance live via satellite to reveal his status with both Smackdown and WWE. What will Angle have to say about his actions in the past few months and his future with the company?

All this and much more Thursday night, only on UPN!

Monday, July 26, 2004

I met with Hardcore Holly and Billy Gunn today. They continue to be upset about their supposed lack of a push, despite the fact they're currently involved in a storyline with Jindrak and Dupree. Nonetheless I listened to their concerns.

Bob Holly has flat out asked for an end to his contract, as he believes he can find more success with TNA than with us. I've discussed it with John Laurinaitis already and Johnny seems to think it was for the best. We've made a deal that if Hardcore will finish out his current storyline, he will be allowed out of his contract.

The Recap: Velocity

Sakoda vs Orlando Jordan

A rather weak contest pitting two so-so young stars against one another. Sakoda came out looking like the better of the two, putting in a solid offensive in the match up. He picks up the win after a Roaring Elbow.

Rating: 3.5/10

-Commercial-

A recap of Thursday's attack by Nunzio on Rey Mysterio is shown. Coming Thursday on Smackdown: Rey Mysterio &

Charlie Haas vs Nunzio & Kenzo Suzuki.

Akio vs Shannon Moore

A high-flying match that blended Shannon's style with the puroresu style of Akio perfectly. Shannon Moore seemed to have the win locked up until Akio scored with a low blow behind the referee's back. That allowed him to set up the Hang Time for the three count.

Rating: 7/10.

-Commercial-

A video recap of the Axis Powers's debut and their subsequent attack on Eddie Guerrero is shown. This leads to a recap of the main event and the firing of Kurt Angle by Vince McMahon. This week on Smackdown, Kurt Angle will appear live via satellite to reveal his future with the WWE!

Nunzio is backstage watching a recap of his Cruiserweight title victory on the screen. Dawn Marie walks over to him and begins to rub herself against his back, telling him how much she loves a man with power...

-Commercial-

The Basham Brothers vs Spike Dudley and Funaki

The odds were against Spike and Funaki going in to this match, but the pair of cruiserweights put in a strong effort against the much larger Bashams. But the Bashams attacked with an intensity seldom seen from the pair. Spike ultimately falls to a spinebuster from the second rope, which allows Doug Basham to pick up the win.

Rating: 3.5/10

-Commercials-

Mike Sanders catches up with the Basham Brothers backstage. He asks their opinion of their victory tonight. Doug Basham tells him that it was just a warm up match as this Thursday, the Bashams will crush Juventud Guerrera and Nicho Millanario the same way.

We get a short recap video of the JBL/Charlie Haas match from Smackdown. This week on Smackdown: Charlie Haas & Rey Mysterio vs Nunzio & Kenzo Suzuki.

-Commercial-

Hardasses vs The Bombshells (w/ Theodore Long)

Josh Matthews reminds us that this match stems from Rene Dupree and Mark Jindrak screwing the Hardasses out of a victory in the #1 contendership match last week on Velocity. Hardcore Holly rips in to Mark Jindrak in the early goings of the match. Despite the beatdown, Jindrak manages to tag out to Rene Dupree. Dupree ducks a clothesline from Holly allowing him to take control of the match-up. Dupree scores with a backdrop and a brainbuster, but Holly scores with a sudden lariat to get the tag out to Billy Gunn. Gunn comes in on fire taking down both Dupree and Jindrak. Ultimately, Theodore Long proves the deciding factor, pushing Gunn behind the ref's back and allowing Jindrak to score with the M.J. Delight for the three count.

Rating: 4/10

Final Thoughts: While not nearly as good a show as last week's fine performance, Velocity seems more relevant thanks to the mini-feud between the Hardasses and the Bombshells. Akio & Sakoda also picked up solid, clear cut wins, which when combined with their strong performance last week seems to hint at a possible push for the pair. A feud between the new tag champs Kidman & London and Akio & Sakoda would definitely be worthwhile.

Friday, July 23, 2004

The last round of interviews yesterday.went incredibly well, and hopefully we'll get to see some of the young talents I met on a WWE screen sometime soon. I received word today that both Jack Evans and Roderick Strong have agreed to deals with WWE, and both should fit in to Smackdown fairly well down the line.

I also met with Nicho Millanario and Juventud Guerrera today, who were both enthusiastic about their Smackdown debut next week against the Basham Brothers. I suspect both will prove to be strong additions to both the cruiserweight and standard rosters, and I think the first feud I have planned for them will do quite a lot to get them over.

The Royal Treatment: Smackdown July 22, 2004

We get the usual Smackdown opening package and opening pyro.

"Viva La Raza!" Eddie Guerrero's music hits and he starts down to the ring with a purpose. He grabs a mic, and than starts firing up the fans. He says he's fed up with John Bradshaw Layfield and the way he's treated both the fans and the wrestlers backstage. And he wants it brought to an end. JBL's music hits and he comes out to the ring in his suit. Bradshaw says he doesn't really care what a degenerate from a lesser race says about him. He's more concerned with one thing and that is power. Sure, he holds the WWE title, but he wants total control of Smackdown. And he's quite tired of Guerrero acting up against him. Suddenly, Kenzo Suzuki and Nunzio rush out of the crowd. They attack Eddie from behind and beat the former champion down. JBL looks down at the unconscious Guerrero and says that he's met the men that bring balance to Smackdown. Together the Axis Powers will rule supreme, and anyone who tries to stop them will meet Eddie Guerrero's fate. Kurt Angle's music hits and he comes down on to the ramp. He says that he doesn't like Eddie anymore than JBL does, but the actions of the so-called Axis are reprehensible. That's why Kenzo will have a rematch tonight against John Cena with the United States title on the line, and all of the members of the Axis Powers are banned from ringside!

Thoughts: Finally, we have the set up for the new stable, the Axis Powers. I'm not sure how respected a Nazi oriented stable will prove to be, but it will definitely build more heat for JBL, Kenzo Suzuki, and Nunzio. I'm also glad to see that Kurt Angle isn't going to make them his new favorites, as his joining a group inspired by the villains of WWII would make NO sense at all.

-Commercial-

Kidman and London vs the Dudley Boyz © for the WWE Tag Team Titles

We get a short clip showing Kidman and London's Velocity win over Akio & Sakoda that led to this match. Billy Kidman and D-Von start things out by sizing each other up as they circle the ring. Kidman scores with a spin kick to the face. Running dropkick by Kidman takes D-Von down. Kidman tags in Paul London, who scores with a flying cross body off the top rope for a two count. Paul London scores with a kick to the side of the head, than tags Billy Kidman back in. Kidman scoops up D-Von while London bounces off the ropes to land a flying Hart Attack clothesline. Cover, but Bubba Ray breaks it up just before three. Bubba Ray pummels Kidman with a couple more blows, which gives D-Von time to recover. Neckbreaker by D-Von. D-Von tags in Bubba Ray Dudley. Double clothesline on Kidman. Manhattan drop on Kidman, who needs to make the tag. Bubba tags D-Von back in. Double back drop by the Dudley Boyz. Jawbreaker by D-Von. Cover, but Kidman some how gets the shoulder up just before three. D-Von tags out to Bubba Ray. Bubba Ray scores with an atomic drop. Bubba goes for a powerslam, but Kidman reverses it in to a DDT! Kidman struggles to his corner, but he makes it! Paul London flies out of his corner with a missile dropkick to Bubba Ray. Paul London goes to whip Bubba in to the corner, but Bubba reverses the whip right in to the ref. D-Von responds instantly, and the Dudley Boyz land the 3-D on London! D-Von attacks Kidman in the corner, while Bubba tries to revive the ref. Out of the back runs Rob Van Dam! RVD rolls in to the ring, than scores with a side kick to Bubba Ray Dudley. RVD goes to the top rope... Five Star Frog Splash! RVD rolls London over Bubba Ray before leaving the ring. The ref comes too, just in time to count the three count! Kidman and London celebrate their new tag titles with Rob Van Dam as we go to commercial!

Rating: 6/10

Thoughts: It comes as a bit of a surprise, but a welcome one. Billy Kidman and Paul London are two solid cruiserweights, and this victory cements their status as a tag team. Hopefully, they can continue winning and develop in to the popular team they could become.

Up Next: Former friends collide! Scotty 2 Hotty vs Rikishi!

-Commercial-

We briefly see Kurt Angle backstage where he's complaining about the Axis Powers to Luther Reigns. Charlie Haas walks in to his office and asks for a match, as he proved himself last week against the Undertaker. Angle smiles and says he's got a match, but not just any match. He will get a shot at JBL's WWE title tonight!

Scotty 2 Hotty vs Rikishi

Rikishi lights up Scotty with some stiff chops. Fallaway slam by Rikishi. A neckbreaker sends Scotty 2 Hotty down to the mat hard. Cover, but Scotty kicks out after two. Rikishi with some rights and lefts. Full Nelson slam by Rikishi. Cover, but Scotty's out just before three again. Rikishi scores with a standing spinebuster that just crushers Scotty 2 Hotty. He covers, but pulls Scotty up just before three. He's not finished with him yet. Big back drop on Scotty 2 Hotty. Rikishi drags Scotty over to the corner, where he ascends to the top. 400 Pound Drop off the top just crushes Scotty. Rikishi just sits on him for the three count. A murderous glee comes over Rikishi as he climbs back to the top once again. Another 400 Pound Drop! Scotty looks seriously injured.

Rating: 2/10

Thoughts: An absolute squash. Rikishi comes off much better as a heel than in his last gimmick, but it still seems bland.

"No Chance in Hell" hits and WWE Owner Vince McMahon emerges from the back. Rikishi turns to look evilly at him. Vince tells Rikishi to get out of his ring as he is suspended indefinitely. Vince than cuts a promo about the "poor" state of Smackdown. He says that naming Kurt Angle the new GM of Smackdown was the worst mistake he ever made. Angle had one more chance to clean up the show tonight, or he would find himself suffering the consequences.

Thoughts: Vince's return literally comes out of nowhere. While I'm not necessarily a fan of Vince on Smackdown, his return seems to set up yet another angle in the current Axis Powers storyline.

-Commercial-

We see a brief recap of Vince's return "moments ago".

Rey Mysterio comes to the ring and grabs a mic, but before he can get a word out, Nunzio's music hits. Nunzio walks out, proudly displaying his new Cruiserweight title. The two yell at each other for a few seconds without a mic, before Nunzio comes out of nowhere with the belt right to Rey Mysterio's face. Nunzio poses with his title over the prone form of Rey Mysterio!

Up Next: John Bradshaw Layfield puts his title on the line against Chalie Haas!

-Commercial-

Charlie Haas vs John Bradshaw Layfield © for the WWE title

JBL lights up Charlie Haas with some stiff hits. JBL scores with a turning neckbreaker on Charlie Haas. Bradshaw covers, but only gets a two. Charlie ducks a clothesline, than scores with a German from behind. He bridges it, but only gets a two. Overhead belly to belly sends JBL right back to the mat. JBL comes up after a two count again. JBL catches a superkick from Haas, than scores with a punch. Charlie Haas fires several punchs back. Charlie Haas runs in for a clothesline, but JBL moves, and Charlie slams in to the ref! JBL and Haas grapple, as Kenzo Suzuki charges down from the back. Kenzo scores with a facebuster from behind! Kenzo lifts Charlie up, and holds him. JBL hits the ropes... and scores with the Clothesline From Hell! John Bradshaw Layfield makes the cover as the ref comes too for the three count. JBL and Kenzo continue to put the boots to Charlie Haas before a gaggle of refs come down to break it up.

Rating: 4/10

Thoughts: Another solid effort from Charlie Haas. He comes off still looking strong and ready for a program higher up the card. I wouldn't be surprised to see him going after Booker T or Kenzo Suzuki soon.

-Commercial-

A video plays, hyping the debut of Los Luchadores Loco, Juventud Guerrera and Nicho Millanario, in just one week!

We go back to the office of Kurt Angle, where he's absolutely fed up with the actions of the Axis Powers. So August 15th at Summerslam, he's going to make a match that will give JBL a lesson in brutality. Because JBL will face Eddie Guerrero in a Hell in the Cell match!

We see John Cena walking through the hallway, as his match against Kenzo Suzuki is up next!

-Commercial-

Kenzo Suzuki © vs John Cena for the United States title

John Cena attacks like a man possessed. Cena scores with lefts and rights. Throwback! Cena scores with a kick to the gut! F-U by John Cena! Cena goes for the cover, but Booker T charges out of the back. He yanks Cena off of Kenzo Suzuki, than scores with the Bookend. The referee calls for the DQ as Booker continues to pound away on John Cena. Booker scores with a kick to the gut, than hits the Scissors Kick! Kenzo Suzuki just smiles as Booker performs the Spinnaroonie!

Rating: 3/10

Thoughts: We seem to be moving John Cena away from the US title, which quite frankly is probably a title he's too good for anyway. Hopefully, a feud with Booker T will help to elevate both men up the card.

Kurt Angle's music hits once again and he stomps down to ring side with Luther Reigns only a few steps behind. Kurt says he's fed up with the Axis, and he's fed up with Booker. He's getting ready to suspend both Booker and Kenzo, as "No Chance in Hell" starts playing again. Vince tells Kurt to stop blaming Booker, Kenzo, and the Axis Powers for his failures as a GM. Anyone can obviously see that Kurt was a failure as a General Manager. Vince has no choice but to fire Kurt, effective immediately. He turns to Luther, who scores with a brutal clotheline on Kurt Angle. Luther lifts Kurt up, than scores with the Reign Fall. Vince just smirks a cocky grin as Smackdown fades out.

Thoughts: Vince seems ready to take control of Smackdown yet again. Hopefully, we won't be subjected to months and months of him over-selling himself like on his last run in the promotion.

Final Thoughts: Another solid Smackdown. While a transitional episode, we got a healthy build-up towards SummerSlam on the show as well as excellent new tag team champions. Continued efforts like this could bring Smackdown back to being the better brand in the long run.

Wednesday, July 21, 2004

I've received word yet again that Hardcore Holly and Billy Gunn are causing trouble again in the backstage portions of the show. I'll be flying out to the Sunday house show to once again have a chat with the pair.

I make my final scouting flight to Chicago tonight. I'll be checking out four more young stars who will hopefully prove to be Smackdown material.

Tuesday, July 20, 2004

Smackdown went off without a hitch. This was porbably the best episode storyline wise that I've booked, although the matches themselves were a little week. However, I managed to write in the official debut of the new stable, Vince's return, and the end of Rikishi's push all in one episode. Not to mention my very first match booked for a PPV.

On a less edgy note, I've taken to writing the Smackdown Previews on WWE.com myself. Here's my first:

Smackdown Preview

Last week, John Bradshaw Layfield's plans seemed to be revealed, as his manipulations won Nunzio the Cruiserweight title and Kenzo Suzuki the United States title. But what plans lie ahead for this trio of champions. What are there goals on Smackdown? And how will former champions Eddie Guerrero, John Cena, and Rey Mysterio respond to this new threat?

On Saturday's Velocity, Paul London and Billy Kidman won the #1 contendership to the tag team titles. This Thursday they will get their chance for the gold against the Dudley Boyz, but will the young, inexperienced cruiserweight team be able to stop the most experienced tag team in wrestling history?

Charlie Haas defeated the Undertaker in last week's main event, going so far as to knock the Deadman out of commission for the forseeable future. With the biggest win of his career under his belt, Charlie Haas has been promised an even bigger match this week on Smackdown. Who will the young athlete face next on his path to the top!

All this and more, Thursday night at 8/7 C on UPN!