tqwcw
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WWE Friday Night Smackdown!
December 8 2006
Florence, SC -- Florence Civic Center
Attendance: 9017
Announcers: Michael Cole & JBL
1- Singles Match
Chris Masters vs. Carlito (with Torrie Wilson)
On a night when World Heavyweight Champion King Booker and Umaga are scheduled to join forces against WWE Champion John Cena and a partner of his choosing, Smackdown! kicks off with in-ring action from the get-go. Chris Masters enters while Cole & JBL take us back to RAW two weeks ago when Masters clashed with Carlito over Torrie. Torrie accompanies Carlito to the ring in support of his efforts to put the arrogant Masterpiece in his place. Torrie gives Carlito a good luck kiss in the ring and Masters capitalizes by attacking Carlito.
The bell rings and things get underway with Masters pounding away ruthlessly on his one-time ally. Masters chokes Carlito with his boot in the corner. Masters pitches Carlito over the top rope. On the outside, Masters lifts up the protective mat and slams Carlito onto the cement. Masters then makes eyes at the Torrie, who is repulsed. Masters tosses Carlito back into the ring. A slow, plodding, cocky masters reenters and looks to drop an elbow on the back of Carlito's neck, but Carlito rolls out of the way and mounts his comeback: springboard back elbow, a pair of clotheslines, and a snap suplex get Carlito a two count. Masters reverses an Irish Whip and hits Carlito with a DDT and then a Press Slam. Masters signals for the Masterlock, worrying Torrie. Masters lifts Carlito up from behind by the arms, looking to lock on the Full Nelson. Carlito slips through, though; he ducks under Masters's legs and hits the Back Cracker out of nowhere! That's enough to give Carlito the win!
Torrie raises Carlito's hand in victory post-match and hands him a celebratory apple. Carlito looks to the crowd for approval. He takes a bite of the apple and prepares to spit in the face of the semi-conscious Masters on the mat. A minor explosion near the entrance brings Kane out onto the ramp, though; he stalks to the ring. The Big Red Monster is as menacing as ever. Carlito holds the ropes open for Torrie, sending her out of harm's way. Kane then steps into the ring looking for revenge on Carlito, who got the better of him on RAW earlier in the week. Carlito charges in but is knocked down by one right hand and then another. Kane hits Carlito with a Big Boot. Torrie screams while Kane drills Carlito with a Chokeslam and then drops him on his head with a Tombstone. Kane summons fire from all four ringposts as Carlito lays destroyed in the center of the ring. Has Kane finally rid himself of the nuissance that has been Carlito?
WINNER: Carlito by pinfall.
72/73/72
2- Singles Match
Jamie Noble vs. Kenny (with Nicky & Mitch)
Last week, the Spirit Squad left now-former member Johnny out to dry when he and Kenny teamed to face the new, Southern-themed duo of Jamie Noble & Jimmy Wang Yang. This week, Jamie Noble faces off with Kenny in singles competition. The Captain of the Spirit Squad is accompanied to the ring by team members Mitch and Nicky. Prior to the opening bell, Noble appears focused on the task at hand and is caught by surprise when the music of his new tag team partner strikes up. Jimmy Wang Yang and his girl Amy head to ringside to show their support for Noble, although Noble remains less than enthusiastic about his new alliance with oddball Yang -- an alliance foisted on him by WWE management.
Regardless, Kenny and Jamie lock up and the match is underway. Kenny enjoys his significant height advantage, but Noble compensates with his speed and technical ability. After Noble ducks a second rope diving clothesline by Kenny, the former Cruiserweight Champion hits Kenny with a double underhook swinging neckbreaker. Yang and Amy cheer enthusiastically, causing a jumpy Noble to startle back in the ring. While Noble is distracted blasting Yang, Kenny takes advantage with a right hand. Kenny sends Noble down with a dropkick. Mitch and Nicky conduct a virtual pep rally for their captain on the outside. Kenny knocks Noble down with a shoulderblock then sends him into the ropes again. Noble hits a leapfrog and then an armdrag to Kenny. Jamie is fired up now and Yang & Amy encourage him to put Kenny away. This brings Mitch and Nicky up onto the apron. Jamie is able to hit them both with a single leg lariat. He then turns his attention back to Kenny, who swings with a clothesline but misses. Noble DDTs Kenny and then locks on the Dragon Sleeper! Kenny is unable to hold out long before submitting!
Yang and Amy are thrilled for Noble and make it known as they accompany their grumpy associate to the back. Mitch and Nicky help Kenny to his feet, but when he regains his bearings, the Squad Captain immediately blasts Mitch and Nicky for their incompetence. The confrontation is brought to an abrupt end when disgraced Spirit Squad alum Johnny hits the ring with a chair! Johnny, no longer conforming to clean-cut Squad standards, is wearing jeans and a t-shirt and brains all three of his former teammates with a chair! The crowd responds with pleasant surprise as Kenny, Mitch, and Nicky find themselves laid out. Johnny has made it clear that, for him, there is life after the Spirit Squad!
WINNER: Jamie Noble by submission.
62/49/75
Kenny lost overness; Johnny gained overness
In the Ring
Women's Champion Mickie James heads to the ring as promised on RAW. She truly has taken Lita's place in every sense; the crowd chants "ho" at her in the ring. She tries to appear as though the heckling isn't getting to her. Mickie explains that Rated-R Superstar Edge couldn't be at Smackdown! tonight (perhaps evading DX...) but she promises that her tribute to the incomparable Trish Stratus and Lita will proceed. Mickie acknowledges both veteran divas' contributions to WWE's Women's Division but then takes credit for running them both out of the promotion for good! Mickie actually agrees with the crowd: she is a bitch -- but the title around her waist says that she is the Head Bitch in WWE; the Head Bitch in Charge, the HBIC, and there's nothing anyone can do about it! Victoria heads to ringside, causing Mickie to frown. Victoria runs down her storied pasts with Trish and Lita both, and says through it all, she learned to respect them. She's in the ring to shut Mickie's mouth. Victoria will force Mickie to pay her dues; she will teach her respect. Victoria suggests Monday on RAW, and Mickie accepts!
65%
3- Singles Match
Mr Kennedy vs. Scotty Too Hotty
Mr Kennedy does his usual introduction, adding that he is the "New Nature Boy," referring to his beatdown of Ric Flair on RAW. Disapproving veteran Scotty Too Hotty enters for the match.
Scotty shows a bit of fire early on, but ultimately Kennedy takes it handily with the Kenton Bomb. Generic action and the crowd isn't into it beyond Kennedy's intro.
Kennedy performs the Flair strut after pronouncing himself the winner.
WINNER: Mr Kennedy by pinfall.
67/68/67
Backstage
Josh Matthews interviews the self-proclaimed "Messiah of Extreme," Paul Heyman. Matthews wanted to know what was next for Heyman now that his long-term investment, the Big Show, had been beaten decisively by new Extreme World Champion Bobby Lashley. Heyman, never without a backup plan, explains that the key to investing is "diversification." Heyman then brings in a man whose proverbial stock has been on the rise since his arrival in ECW months ago: Test. Heyman confirms that Sunday night on WWE Extreme on SciFi, Test will face the Suicidal, Homicidal, Genocidal, Death-Defying Sabu in an Extreme Rules Match with the winner receiving a shot at champion Lashley. Test describes himself as "285 pounds of pure aggression," promising to steamroll the broken-down Sabu on Sunday night before moving on to Lashley. Test continues to come off as yesterday's non-news, even despite Heyman's involvement.
67%
In the Parking Lot
MVP is chatting up WWE diva Kristal outside his limousine. 2006 Diva Search Winner Layla walks by and appears impressed by MVP's ride. Kristal isn't at all pleased by Layla's advances toward MVP, but MVP urges the ladies not to fight; after all, there's room for both of them in the back of his limo. Kristal and Layla are appeased by MVP's words and slide into the car. Before MVP can depart in order to make a night of it, Finlay approaches and asks Porter if he's ready for their match scheduled for two days away on Extreme. That he would be facing the Irishman who "loves to fight" is news to MVP, who seems less than enthusiastic. MVP tells Finlay he'll see him on Sunday night and Finlay moves on. An angry MVP then turns to his limo driver and instructs him to get his agent on the phone, "now!" MVP's act is being fleshed out a bit, but Finlay never benefits from talking.
51%
MVP gained overness; Finlay lost overness.
4- Four-Way Elimination Match
Super Crazy vs. Little Guido (with Trinity) vs. Shannon Moore vs. Daivari (with The Great Khali)
The Cruiserweights are out on Smackdown!, and Cole is quick to note that the results of this match will go a long way in perhaps determining who will get the next crack at long-reigning champion Gregory Helms. Daivari may have the edge, here; he's picked up singles wins of late over both Super Crazy and Tommy Dreamer thanks in no small part to the assistance of his associate Khali.
In the opening minutes, the luchadore and Persian pair off while the Full Blooded Italian and punk do the same. At this point, Gregory Helms strolls out onto the entrance ramp to scout his potential challengers. Super Crazy clotheslines Daivari to the outside. Moore tries to take advantage by setting Crazy up for a Northern Lights Suplex, but Crazy hits an Inside Cradle and the Reject is eliminated! Little Guido then launches himself off the ring apron onto Daivari outside with a dropkick. Super Crazy makes it a three-way pileup after hitting both of his opponents on the outside with an insane Springboard Moonsault. Khali intervenes, lifting Guido and Crazy up and driving the ECW originals' heads together. He sends them back into the ring and then helps Daivari to his feet. Daivari heads up to the top rope and hits Super Crazy with a splash to eliminate him. It's down to Daivari and Guido. As Helms looks on, his former friend and current rival Matt Hardy steps onto the ramp to watch both the match and Helms himself! Helms senses Hardy's presence fifteen feet behind him and the former Hurricane directs a scowl at Hardy; Helms is irked that Hardy apparently hasn't given up his Cruiserweight Title aspirations. Back in the ring, Daivari sets Guido up for a Superplex. Guido has enough fuel in him to shove Daivari back into the ring. Guido then takes to the air with a Sunset Flip and picks up the three count! Decent semi-spotfest, but nowhere near as athletic as your typical X-Division cluster.
Guido rolls out of the ring and celebrates with Trinity; they head to the back before Daivari and Khali can avenge the loss. Hardy, meanwhile, smiles at Helms, who has been made aware of the fact that he is in the crosshairs of quite a few hungry Cruiserweights!
WINNER: Little Guido by pinfall.
67/57/78
In the Ring
Back from break, DX music unexpectedly begins and the fan get on their feet as a stern-looking Shawn Michaels steps out from behind the curtain. The Heartbreak Kid heads to the ring with purpose. Taking a microphone, he explains that tonight is not the night for crotch chops and microphone shticks. On Monday night, Rated RKO went below the belt to get to DX and the Heartbreak Kid in particular. He told Hunter to stay home tonight because it was family business that Shawn had to take care of. Paul London and Brian Kendrick grew up at the Texas Wrestling Academy, and when Edge and Orton targetted them Monday night on RAW, they took a direct shot -- a low blow -- at Shawn Michaels. And Rated RKO clearly knew that what they had done was out of line, as evidenced by their conspicuous absence from Smackdown tonight. Michaels promises that the new WWE World Tag Team Champions would have their sins revisited on them tenfold. Things then take an unceremonious turn as the country-style theme of Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch brings the Southern brawlers to the ring. Michaels shakes his head and looks on as Cade and Murdoch enter the ring. Murdoch wears usual scowl while Cade prepares to speak. Michaels preempts Cade by asking how many times DX has to squash Cade & Murdoch before they would simply go away. Cade tells that his expression of fatherly feeling in regards to Kendrick and London tugged at his heartstrings, but Cade can't help but feel overlooked, given that he too is a product of the TWA. Michaels quickly reminds Cade that he was the one who chose to become an enemy of HBK's when he tried to collect on the DX bounty months earlier. When Cade contends that HBK fears Cade's potential success, HBK proposes they cut the chit chat and settle the dispute the old-fashioned way. The two are soon exchanging punches, and as Murdoch steps out of the ring to stand in his tag team partner's corner, referee Charles Robinson arrives to officiate! Good promo from Shawn, who is stronger when showing genuine emotion rather than, say, pretending to be twenty years younger than he truly is. Highlight of the show.
93%
5- Singles Match
Lance Cade (with Trevor Murdoch) vs. Shawn Michaels
Strapping Cade unloads early on the bad back of his teacher with clubbing blows. Cade slams Michaels in the center of the ring and drops an elbow for a two count. Cade tries throwing Michaels outside to be picked over by Murdoch, but Michaels Skins the Cat and then takes Cade off his feet with a Flying Forearm! Murdoch pops up on the apron, distracting Michaels while Cade recovers and charges. HBK has the presence of mind to duck, and Cade and Murdoch collide! Murdoch falls back down to the outside while Cade tries to regain his wits. In the meantime, Michaels tunes up the band, and then floors the disgruntled TWA vet with Sweet Chin Music! Michaels scores the pin. Cade looked pretty good here and a case can still be made for him as a future top or second tier name...
Cade and Murdoch have been incapacitated and the elder half of DX stands in the middle of the ring having sent a clear message to the absent Rated RKO!
WINNER: Shawn Michaels by pinfall.
75/78/70
Backstage
A nervous Steve Romero welcomes his interviewees: Gangrel (with goblet), flanked by Kevin Thorn and Ariel. A deferential Romero questions the former leader of the Brood about his return to WWE on Sunday night, during which he "anointed" Balls Mahoney following the ECW Original's loss to the impressive Thorn. In response to Romero's questioning, Gangrel simply laughs, and then Thorn and Ariel join in. We are no closer to understanding what this new contingent was all about. Two WWE Superstars who have no interest in hearing the group out are Tommy Dreamer and The Sandman, who enter the interview area and confront the threesome about the rites performed on their (Dreamer & Sandman's) extreme running mate Mahoney. Sandman isn't sure if Gangrel and company speak the same language, so he and Tommy opt to "speak" to the vampires in a more direct way: with singapore canes! After a nasty brawl erupts, security appears to attempt (in vain) to restore order! Still too early to tell if the Brood knockoff will work in 2006/7, and Sandman and Dreamer's presence outside of an ECW brand seems awkward.
67%
Thorn and Ariel gained overness.
6- Tag Team Match
Umaga (with Armando Alejandro Estrada) & World Heavyweight Champion King Booker (with Queen Sharmell) vs. WWE Champion John Cena & Extreme World Champion Bobby Lashley (with Ron Simmons)
Estrada leads his charge Umaga to the ring first. Queen Sharmell follows, ordering all to hail World Heavyweight Champion King Booker. The [WWE] Champ John Cena is next to make his way out, and he waits at ringside for the arrival of his handpicked partner, all the while keeping an eye on both his Armageddon opposition King Booker and another, dangerous thorn in his side in Umaga. A recognizable opening riff brings Extreme World Champion Bobby Lashley to the entrance with mentor Ron Simmons in tow. The formidable duo of Cena and Lashley shake hands at ringside before entering the ring. Cole puts over the fact that three prestigious champions will compete in this match.
King Booker starts off against Lashley, and the two are no strangers to each other. Booker attempts an early leverage pin. Lashley escapes, but Booker makes a quick tag to Umaga. He and Lashley, two monsters, exchange lumbering blows. Lashley is unable to take Umaga off his feet until finally taking Umaga to the outside with a clothesline that sends them both over the top rope. Booker joins Umaga in pounding on the Extreme World Champion on the outside. Cena hops off the apron to provide Lashley relief. An uncontrollable Umaga goes after Ron Simmons. Damn! Lashley grabs Umaga and sends him forehead first into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Umaga and Lashley hit double clotheslines and both go down. They each head slowly to their respective corners. Tags are made! Cena is on fire as he unloads on both Booker and Umaga. Booker fires off a desperation sidekick but Cena ducks and then drops Booker with the spin out powerbomb! Cena sets up for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but devious Queen Sharmell and Estrada each grab one of Cena's legs from the outside! Simmons chases his heelish counterparts backstage while Cena turns back to Booker, but the damage has been done; when Cena lifts Booker up for an FU, Booker slips out and rolls through with a pinning attempt. Lashley breaks up the fall! The King clotheslines Lashley to the outside. Just as Lashley pulls himself up to his feet, Test hits the ringside area and blasts Lashley from behind with a chair, further demonstrating his interest in securing a shot at the Extreme World Title! In the meantime, Cena has hoisted Booker up once more for a possible FU, but before Cena can pull the trigger, Umaga blasts him out of nowhere with the Samoan Spike! World Champion Booker falls on top of Cena and picks up the 1, 2, 3! There were no world-class workers involved in the match but the heat was strong enough to make this engaging. Umaga and Lashley both are being elevated by virtue of their placements in main events.
WINNERS: King Booker & Umaga by pinfall.
Dazed and semi-conscious, Cena rolls to the outside. The animalistic Umaga watches his fallen prey while the arm of cowardly King Booker is raised in the middle of the ring. If he can best Cena again in a matter of weeks at Armageddon, he will become the unified WWE World Champion! The King; Umaga; K-Fed; the list goes on: Cena is a marked man!
76/78/72
Lashley and Umaga gained overness.
Overall Rating: 69% (down 5% from previous week)
Television Rating: 6.01 (up .43 from previous week)
--More on the logistics of the ending of the brand extension: While no talent will be exclusive to any of the three weekly shows, some effort will be made to distinguish RAW, Smackdown!, and Extreme from each other. RAW will typically feature all of the company's top stars and will include the most noteworthy angles of the week. Not all of the A-Listers will appear on Smackdown! each week, and even fewer will be seen on Extreme. Smackdown! will routinely feature lengthier matches as well as squashes designed to get certain wrestlers over. The cruiserweights will be seen most prominently on Smackdown, as well. Any Extreme Rules matches that occur on TV will probably be seen on the Extreme program.--There have been a lot of eyes rolling backstage since December to Dismember over the strong push Bobby Lashley is receiving. Lashley is seen as Vince McMahon's current pet project.
--There are big plans for Spirit Squaders Kenny and Mikey and now-ex-Squader Johnny. The buzz is that Mitch and Nicky's futures are less certain at this time.
--With Trish Stratus and Lita finished with the company, the plan is to push Victoria as the babyface, veteran leader of the divas' locker room.
--There are no plans to remove Paul Heyman from TV. Creative is pleased with the Test/Heyman pairing, and Heyman may acquire additional clients over time, as well (hence Heyman's remarks about "diversification" on Smackdown).
--Kristal and Leyla are among a group of talents slated to become a regular part of MVP's on-air entourage.
--A conscious effort is being made slowly but surely to rebuild midcard talents such as Cade & Murdoch, Charlie Haas, and William Regal (among others) who have been portrayed trivially in recent months.
--As established on Smackdown!, scheduled for Sunday's WWE Extreme: Test (with Paul Heyman) vs. Sabu to determine Bobby Lashley's Extreme World Championship opponent for Armageddon, as well as MVP vs. Finlay.
--Developmental update: Claudio Castagnoli, who signed a developmental deal last month, reports to OVW in January.... CW Anderson, who has been paid to sit at home for months, is headed to DSW.... Chuck Palumbo continues to work dark matches despite the recent gaffe with Funaki.... Harry Smith and TJ Wilson will be debuting for OVW soon. There is still a lot of buzz about a new Hart Foundation being launched and in place by next year's big Screwjob anniversary.... Needless to say, Matt Cappotelli remains inactive but under contract.... As WWE tries to streamline its new, combined main roster, a number of mid and low-level names may be shifted down to development for seasoning or to serve as trainers.... Paul Heyman's Riot Guards have been dropped from TV, so Derrick Neikirk is back in DSW and Doug Basham in OVW. Neikirk had replaced Danny Basham in the gimmick when Basham suffered a torn bicep months ago. Danny won't be cleared to wrestle until around February. No word on plans for either of the Bashams in terms of the main roster.
Current rosters:
OVW: Boris Alexiev, Braddock, Cherry, Chet the Jet, Chris Rombola, Cody Runnels, Dan Rodimer, Deuce Shade, Dice Domino, Doug Basham, Jack Bull, Jacob Duncan, Katie Lea, Mason Raige, Mike Knox, Mike Kruel, Oleg Prudius, Ryan Reeves, Seth Skyfire, Shawn Osborne, Shawn Spears, Steve Lewington, Victoria Crawford
DSW: Afa Jr, Angel Williams, Bradley Jay, Brett & Brian Majors, Brooke Adams, Damien Steel, Derrick Neikirk, Drew Hankinson, Eric Perez, Gymini, Heath Miller, Jon Bolen, Keith Walker, Kofi Kingston, Krissy Vaine, Maryse, Robert Anthony, Shantelle Taylor, Sonny Siaki, Terry Ray Gordy, Tommy Suede, Tony Santorelli, Tracy Taylor
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WWE RAW
December 4 2006
Charleston, SC -- North Charleston Coliseum
Attendance: 9010
Announcers: Jim Ross & Jerry "The King" Lawler
In the Ring
RAW kicks off with the hybrid entrance music of Rated RKO. Edge, Randy Orton, and Mickie James head down to the ring carrying their respective championship titles. The World Tag Team Champions are dressed to wrestle. When they step into the ring, they preempt Lilian Garcia's ring introduction. Mickie James takes the mic.
Mickie James: As you can tell, tonight's presentation of RAW is Rated R-K-O.
Edge: And I think it's only fitting that we kick things off as only the Rated-R Superstar can.
Edge and Mickie James stage an overdone kiss. Randy Orton then speaks.
Randy Orton: But the featured attraction tonight is next: the unification match for the combined WWE World Tag Team Titles. All the gold is on the line.
Edge: And to make our victory that much sweeter, DX is here.
The crowd cheers.
Edge: That's right. DX is here to see us do what they've never quite managed to: become undisputed tag team champions.
Orton: You know, that's all well and good, Edge, but you're forgetting the best part.
Edge feigns ignorance and then a lightbulb moment.
Edge: Ah! Thank you, Randy! It had completely slipped my mind. It had completely slipped my mind that the two men we're going to decimate tonight to unify the tag team championships have a-- well, they have a special place in Shawn Michaels's heart. Ain't that right, HBK?
Orton: Little known fact: Brian Kendrick and Paul London are graduates of the Texas Wrestling Academy. The Texas Wrestling Academy -- founded and run by Shawn Michaels.
Edge: Uh-huh. Kendrick and London are Shawn Michaels's star students, folks. They're his pride and joy; his proteges. And tonight, live on RAW, Rated RKO is going to squash them both, like a couple of them little pesky deer flies ya'll seem to attract here in Charleston. But in truth, it's a Rated RKO kind of week, isn't it, Mickie?
Mickie: That's right, baby. Because Friday night on Smackdown!, yours truly -- the WWE Women's Champion -- will be hosting a tribute to two of the most accomplished divas in Sports-Entertainment history: Trish Stratus and Lita. It'll make you laugh; it'll make you cry. And it will be Rated RKO!
Orton: But now, the moment you've all been waiting for. It's time for new WWE World--
Before Orton can finish his statement, the entrance music of Kendrick & London hits. The WWE Tag Team Champions sprint to the ring in their usual fashion, with Ashley in tow. Kendrick and London hit the ring. Edge and Orton charge, but the masked Smackdown! imports hit stereo dropkicks and send both members of Rated RKO down as the match gets underway!
89%
1 -- Unification Match for the WWE World Tag Team Titles
World Tag Team Champions Rated RKO (with Mickie James) vs. WWE Tag Team Champions Brian Kendrick & Paul London (with Ashley)
Caught off-guard, Edge and Orton roll to the outside. Kendrick and London stay on top of them, though, diving through the top and middle ropes and crashing into Orton and Edge respectively. Ashley likes what she sees out of her men so far while Mickie, who seems to be reverting to her unstable ways, scowls in frustration and outrage. Edge and Orton are able to regain their bearings on the outside. Orton sends Kendrick forehead-first into the ringpost, while Edge drives London's head into the ringsteps. Edge rolls London into the ring and these two start out the legal men. Edge focuses on the knee of London, looking perhaps to compromise his high-flying offense. Edge makes the tag to a fresh Orton and Rated RKO do an effective job of isolating London in their half of the ring. Edge is tagged in again. London catches him with an Enziguri and goes up top. Edge cuts him off there, though; he sets London up on his shoulders and proceeds to drop him with an Electric Chair for a two count. Edge with an Irish whip; London with a leapfrog and then a headscissors. London makes the hot tag! Kendrick hits a bulldog on Edge. Orton charges in but Kendrick ducks a clothesline and Orton inadvertently hits his partner. Kendrick goes for the pin on Edge and comes thisclose to getting the upset! Edge is furious when he gets to his feet and knocks Kendrick down with a right hand. Kendrick is sent into the ropes and hit with a Stun Gun. Edge tags Orton in. Orton throws his high dropkick. He measures Kendrick for the RKO, but Kendrick drops to the mat. Orton goes back to work with a snap suplex and leg drop for a two count. Orton goes off the middle turnbuckle with an elbow smash but Kendrick moves and makes the tag to London. Orton charges in but Kendrick & London work together to backdrop Orton out of the ring! London takes to the air again, hitting Orton down below with a slingshot body block. Mickie helps Orton to his feet. Orton limps back into the ring. London prepares to re-enter as well but, while Orton chats with referee Chad Patton, Edge works over London, clotheslining him onto the cement. Edge returns to his corner but Mickie continues to take cheap shots at London. Ashley will have none of this and turns Mickie around in order to slap the taste out of her mouth. While the divas roll around on the floor, London drags himself back into the ring. Orton goes back on the attack but London comes out of nowhere with a small package. Two count only. Orton punishes London with a backbreaker and makes the tag to Edge. London is in perfect position in the corner and Edge charges in for the Spear. London moves and Edge connects with the ringpost. Kendrick tags in and executes a sunset flip. He's unable to get Edge over into a pinning combination. Edge outpowers Kendrick, lifting him up dropping him on the back of his neck with a spinebuster. Edge signals again for the Spear and this time he hits it. London enters to try and break up the pin, but Orton rushes in and hits him with the RKO. Kendrick is unable to kick out following the spear, and Rated RKO are our WWE World Tag Team Champions.
WINNERS: Rated RKO by pinfall.
That honor is not enough for Edge and Orton. As soon as they are handed both the WWE and World Tag Team Championship belts, they take the boots back to Kendrick and London. London gets a Spear and Kendrick an RKO. Ashley looks on helplessly while Kendrick and London are each set up by Edge and Orton for Shattered Dreams courtesy of Mickie in each corner. The crowd then erupts as DX appear at the entrance and charge to the ring -- Triple H with the Sledgehammer and Shawn Michaels with a chair. Edge, Orton, and Mickie bail to the outside and back up the ramp with all of their gold. Michaels and Triple H leave Ashley to tend to HBK's graduates and chase Edge & Orton to the back! Returning from commercial break, DX continue the chase, but the Rated RKO trio hop into their towncar and speed off. The WWE World Tag Team Champions have crossed the line!
89/83/95
WWE World Tag Team Titles gained image.
Backstage
Mr. McMahon is seated at his desk and Paul Heyman and Big Show stand opposite him.
Big Show (favoring his back): Mind if I take a seat?
Mr. McMahon: That barbed wire taking its toll, Big Show?
Show (sitting): Little bit.
McMahon: I didn't say you could sit down.
Show frowns.
Paul Heyman: Mr. McMahon. Vince. I know there must be a good reason you summoned Show and me here tonight.
McMahon: Yes, Paul. There's a very good reason. You know, Show, that I consider you a personal friend. But you also have to realize that, more than ever, the buck stops here, with me, as far as WWE goes. And I've been informed that footage from security cameras backstage at Smackdown! last week confirm beyond a shadow of a doubt that it was you, along with Paul's personal security, who perpetrated that attack on Rob Van Dam: the attack that will keep him out of action for up to a year. I can't sit on my hands. I've got to take action, here.
Heyman: That's perfectly understandable, Mr. McMahon. Big Show deserves a formal reprimand and so do I, for that matter. As you know, The Big Show is my long-term investment. And I may have pushed him to go a step or two too far in order to protect him as such. Take disciplinary action, and I can guarantee you that The Big Show will be on his best behavior as he embarks on the road to recapture the Extreme World Championship from Bobby Lashley.
McMahon strokes his chin, thinking this offer. Lashley, head bandaged where he was busted open last night, then happens to pass by the office, and he steps inside, carrying the Extreme World Championship over his shoulder. Show flares his nostrils. Lashley doesn't flinch. Heyman addresses Lashley.
Heyman: Do you mind? This is a private meeting.
McMahon: Last time I checked, Paul, this was my office, and I've got no problem with Bobby Lashley being here. After all, what I have to tell you obviously effects him and his future title defenses. By the way, Bobby: congratulations.
Lashley nods. Heyman and Show are not pleased.
McMahon: Now: Paul, I've taken what you've said into advisement, but the fact remains that I've got no choice but to suspend The Big Show in response to his attack on Rob Van Dam last week.
Show bristles. Heyman calms him and turns to McMahon.
Heyman: Mr. McMahon, let's not be rash! Suspension is so categorical, so severe...
McMahon: Severe? No, Paul. Severe would be-- severe would be, oh, say, firing you and the Big Show both.
Big Show and Heyman's jaws drop.
McMahon: Severe would be inviting the two of you to become the newest members of the Kiss. My. Ass. Club. Big Show is suspended and he should consider himself fortunate.
Bobby Lashley: Wait, Mr. McMahon.
All three other men turn to Lashley.
McMahon (fascinated): Yes?
Lashley: You have yet to name my opponent tonight for my first Extreme World Championship defense. I walked out of the Elimination Chamber the winner last night, but it was the toughest match I've ever fought. Big Show? He deserves a chance to win the title back.
Show: You're damn right, I do!
Lashley: But I also deserve at the Big Show: to prove that I am the Extreme World Champion for a reason, and because I respect Rob Van Dam and I want to make the Big Show pay for what he did last week.
Show: You just go ahead and try, you sonovabitch!
McMahon: That's enough out of you. Lashley, I think an Extreme Rules match between you and the Big Show for the Extreme World Championship is just what RAW needs tonight, and so I'm going to make it happen.
Heyman, Show, Lashley, and the crowd react.
McMahon: But given the special circumstances, I think I'm only justified in raising the stakes. If Big Show wins tonight, he once again becomes the Extreme World Champion and Bobby Lashley becomes just another face in the crowd. But if Bobby Lashley wins tonight, he will cement his legacy as a great Extreme World Champion, and, Big Show? If that happens? If Lashley retains the title here tonight? His title reign will remain in-tact -- and so will your suspension!
Big Show and Heyman absorb the gravity of the task ahead of Show. Ron Simmons walks by and peeks his head in, listening in. Lashley turns to Big Show.
Lashley: It's on, Big Show. And tonight, I'm going to make the Elimination Chamber seem like a walk in the park.
Big Show glares. Simmons, taking it all in, folds his arms and looks from side to side.
Ron Simmons: Damn!
92%
Backstage
The menacing Kane is walking down a corridor backstage. Various workers such as Val Venis, Super Crazy, Candice Michelle, and Maria give the Big Red Monster a wide birth. Snitsky appears and marches up to his once-bitter rival.
Kane: You're in my way.
Snitsky: Yeah, that's the idea. I want to know what everyone else wants to know: what made you stab your brother in the back at Survivor Series? And what did you mean last week when you told Carlito you had no choice?
Kane: Since when do I have to answer to you, of all people?
Snitsky: This isn't about me, big man. It's about you.
Kane: I'm not in the mood to talk. I'm in more of a mood... to fight.
Snitsky: So, you're daring me to beat the answers out of you?
Kane: I'm daring you to step into the ring with me. And, before you accept? Just remember: What happens won't be my fault.
Kane laughs in his maniacal way and walks on. Candice and Maria have been looking on and scuttle up to Snitsky.
Maria: Gene? What're you gonna do?!
Snitsky pauses dramatically.
Snitsky: I'm going to lace up my boots, girls.
77%
2 -- Singles Match
Charlie Haas (with Viscera) vs. CM Punk
Haas is accompanied by his tag team partner, the World's Largest Love Machine. Punk, making his in-ring RAW debut, enters to an ovation as we relive his standout performance in the previous evening's Elimination Chamber match. JR is stunned that Punk didn't suffer a concussion as a result of the Showstopper he took onto the chair before being eliminated. Match begins with a lock-up and exchange of holds. Haas makes it appear as though he's looking for a collar and elbow tie-up but he kicks Punk in the midsection instead and executes a double underhook suplex with a floatover cover. Eric Bischoff takes a seat in the front row once again, jotting down notes and watching the match intently. Punk kicks out, but Haas stays aggressive; he whips Punk in and delivers a drop toehold. Haas looks for the Haas of Pain early on but Punk makes it to the ropes. Haas goes for the waistlock, perhaps looking for a German Suplex, but Punk makes the standing switch and locks on a Hammerlock and then an Inverted DDT for a two count. Kelly Kelly steps out onto the entrance to get a closer look at the match. She is clearly pulling for Punk and is glad to see him on the offensive. JR and Lawler note that last night's incident involving Mike Knox may have been a formative one for Punk and Kelly Kelly's relationship. Haas eats the high knee lift in the corner but he is then able to counter a potentially-fatal Uranage with a Northern Lights Suplex. Haas bridges and Punk gets the shoulder up at two, much to Kelly Kelly's relief. It is then that Viscera takes notice of Kelly Kelly up near the entrance. The pajama-clad former King of the Ring licks his lips and begins walking up the aisle toward her. Lilian Garcia can be seen rolling her eyes. Back in the ring, Punk fires off several jujitsu kicks, finally sending Haas down with a roundhouse kick. Haas kicks out. Punk springboards off the middle rope, looking for a clothesline. Haas ducks and when Punk turns around, he is caught in a belly to belly suplex. In the meantime, Viscera has reached Kelly Kelly. Despite her open sexuality, she appears uncomfortable with Viscera's advances. Before Haas can follow up on his opponent, he is distracted by the proceedings at the entrance; he seems somewhat annoyed with his tag partner's proposition. When Haas does finally turn back to Punk, Punk pulls off the Uranage and transitions as usual into the Anaconda Vice. Haas taps!
WINNER: CM Punk by submission.
Viscera's attention is drawn back to the ring by the sound of the bell. He heads back to ringside to check in with his partner. Kelly Kelly is relieved to see Viscera go, and she applauds Punk from the entrance. Punk smiles and shrugs as he continues to be perfectly happy being the object of the exhibitionist's admiration.
76/70/82
3 -- Singles Match
Snitsky vs. Kane
The combatants stand face-to-face. Kane absorbs several shots by Snitsky. Snitsky bounces off the ropes and tries sending Kane down with a shoulder block but Kane maintains his balance. Kane rocks Snitsky with a few uppercuts and then sends him down with a big boot. A groggy Snitsky charges in but is met with a sidewalk slam. Kane gets a two count, and JR observes that we haven't seen a Kane this motivated in quite some time. Mid-match, Eric Bischoff vacates his seat as his recent scouting remains a mystery. Back in the ring, Snitsky seizes an opening by reversing an Irish Whip. Snitsky hits a back elbow and tries for a scoop slam, but his back gives out. Kane takes advantage by hitting a slam of his own. He then goes up top and hits Snitsky with his flying clothesline. When Snitsky stands, Kane grabs him by the neck for the Chokeslam. Snitsky slips out and tries for a Clothesline. Kane ducks and catches Snitsky again for a potential chokeslam; this time, he is successful in pulling off the move. Instead of going for the cover, Kane goes outside and brings in a chair. Referee Marty Rubalcaba tries to intervene but Kane tosses him over the top rope. This one is a no-contest.
WINNER: No decision.
Kane holds the chair high, hinting that he has big plans for it. JR reminds us that Kane once used a chair to crush Shawn Michaels's larynx (and that Snitsky returned the favor to Kane months later). Indeed, Kane sets up the chair around Snitsky's neck and is poised to stomp on the chair when Carlito charges to the ring. Carlito, fighting back after Kane's unprovoked attack last week, sends Kane rocking against the ropes with a dropkick. Carlito hits Kane with a second dropkick, and Kane tumbles over the top rope this time. A fiery Carlito invites Kane to come back into the ring. Kane laughs, apparently amused by the daring Carlito has shown. Kane points at Carlito as if to indicate that they're not through yet.
74/77/67
Backstage
In his "chamber," King Booker paces with the World Heavyweight Title while Queen Sharmell stands by. Booker is troubled.
King Booker: In 27 days, I face John Cena for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.
Queen Sharmell: And you shall defeat him. The world bore witness on Smackdown! to John Cena fallen in the middle of the ring. He is but a mere mortal. He, too, will go the way of Batista.
Booker (annoyed): Yes, yes. But I grow impatient. This rogue had the audacity to purloin our crown last week on RAW. Will no one rid me of this turbulent peasant?
Just then, Armando Alejandro Estrada and Umaga enters the frame. The King and Queen stand back.
Armando Alejandro Estrada: My name es Armando Alej--
Booker interrupts.
Booker (slipping into his unaffected voice): I know who you are, sucka. What the hell do--
Booker remembers himself and clears his throat.
Booker (returning to the posturing): You wish to speak?
Estrada: Do you realize what jou are looking at? Jou are looking at the Samoan Bulldozer: Umaga. July 17th; RAW: Umaga defeats John Cena. Haha! November 26th; Survivor Series: Umaga eliminates John Cena in a Traditional Survivor Series Match. Last Friday; Smackdown!: John Cena falls again to the Samoan Spike.
Estrada raises his eyebrows and rubs his hands together. Umaga huffs and puffs behind him.
Booker: I know that, you fool. I was there.
Estrada: Jour friend Regal? He couldn't get the job done. Johnny Nitro? Forget it. Umaga? Umaga es John Cena's worst nightmare.
Booker: Do you mean to imply that you wish to secure a WWE Title shot at Cena? Surely, you jest!
Estrada: Do I look like I yoking around to jou, King Booker?
Booker: Declare yourself, man! What are you playing at?
Estrada: I am a businessman. And I am making jou a business offer.
Sharmell (imploring Booker): Listen to him, baby.
Booker (to Estrada): Your man -- your "Samoan Bulldozer." You're offering his services to us?
Estrada: He is a proven commodity. Haha!
Booker quickly formulates a plan.
Booker: I see in our future a triumphant return -- a return to our homeland: to Smackdown! The King of the Ring, the Champion of Champions, King Booker and this-- this Umaga, against WWE Champion John Cena and a partner of his choosing. Why wait 27 days to best John Cena when it can be done in 4, instead?
The King, Queen, and Estrada beam while the intimidating Umaga stands at the ready. Will John Cena accept the challenge? Will he put it all on the line weeks before the unification at Armageddon?
72%
King Booker lost overness. Armando Alejandro Estrada gained overness.
4 -- Six-Man Tag Team Match
Chavo Guerrero (with Vickie Guerrero) & Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms & Johnny Nitro (with Melina) vs. Matt Hardy & Intercontinental Champion Jeff Hardy & United States Champion Chris Benoit
All six of these men have had various run-ins of late and tonight they all clash in this six-man. Benoit is eager to start the match opposite Chavo, but Guerrero has second thoughts and immediately tags in Nitro. Benoit wrestles Nitro to the mat with ease. Nitro then finds himself in trouble in the corner; he falls victim to a number of Benoit's patented knife-edge chops and stiff stomps to the midsection. Benoit looks for an early Crossface, prompting Melina to scream bloody murder. Nitro avoids the submission with a forward roll. He tags in Helms, who springboards onto Benoit with a crossbody. Benoit kicks out at two. Helms attempts a snap suplex; Benoit counters with one of his own. Side backbreaker. Benoit hooks the leg; two count. Benoit with a snapmare. He isolates Helms in the corner and tags in the man who has been after Helms's Cruiserweight Championship: childhood friend Matt Hardy. Hardy rushes in with a clothesline on Helms. Helms leapfrogs a rush by Hardy and catches Matt hard with a Superkick. Helms struts, taunting the crowd before tagging out to Chavo. Guerrero picks Helms up and hits him with a few uppercuts. Belly to back and a two count. Vickie encourages Chavo to put Hardy away. Chavo plants Matt with a Brainbuster and then heads up top, telegraphing a Frog Splash. Matt moves out of the way at the last minute. He makes it to the corner and tags in his brother. Matt and Jeff hit a double suplex on Chavo before Matt returns to his corner. Chavo regains some ground with a headscissors. He sends Jeff into the turnbuckle but Jeff is able to hit the Whisper in the Wind! Two count on Guerrero. Jeff hits a nasty double legdrop to Chavo's groin. Vickie intervenes at this point, engaging in an argument with Jeff. This allows Chavo to dropkick Hardy from behind. Chavo sends Jeff into the ropes and hits him with a Tilt a Whirl backbreaker. Hardy is sent into the corner, and Chavo positions himself on the top rope. He pushes off for the Tornado DDT but Hardy is able to shove Chavo off. Chavo goes crashing to the matt. Jeff heads up to the top rope, runs across it a few steps, and nearly decapitates Chavo with a diving clothesline. Jeff tags in Benoit. Chavo tries tagging out in order to avoid facing Benoit, but Benoit grabs him by the tights. Benoit with a lariat. He then hooks his arms around Chavo's waist. Helms comes in to try to put the kibosh on the German Suplexes, but Matt cuts Helms off with the Side Effect. Chavo is drilled with the second of the three German Suplexes. Nitro then enters, but Jeff foils his interference with a clothesline that sends them both tumbling to the outside. Chavo takes a third German Suplex. Benoit heads up to the top rope and signals for the Harley Race Headbutt! Jeff, meanwhile, climbs to the opposite corner and signals for a Swanton! Nitro and Helms are busy double-teaming Matt on the outside. Benoit and Jeff make eye contact, and then both fly off the top with their respective moves on Chavo! Vickie thinks fast, though, and gets onto the apron to jaw with the referee, rendering Benoit's pin attempt irrelevant. Frustrated, Benoit stands and confronts Vickie. Vickie returns to the floor. Benoit returns his attention to Chavo and hits two of the Three Amigos suplexes. Jeff, in the meantime, collides with Nitro, Helms, and Matt with a plancha. Chavo summons a second wind to block the third vertical suplex. Benoit uses a double leg takedown to send Guerrero to the mat. He looks for the Sharpshooter but Chavo shoves Benoit off with his leg. Vickie then isolates Benoit by grabbing him by the boot outside. Chavo positions himself and blasts Benoit with a Hangman's Neckbreaker, exploiting the weakness of the surgically-repaired neck. As chaos reigns on the outside, Chavo again ventures to the top rope and connects this time with the Frogsplash. Sure enough, Chavo picks up the three count thanks in large part to the interventions of his business manager Vickie.
WINNERS: Guerrero & Helms & Nitro by pinfall.
After the pin, the Hardys dropkick both of their foes on the outside into the ringside barrier. They then enter the ring and chase Chavo off, proceeding to help Benoit to his feet. Nothing can spoil the good mood Chavo and Vickie are in following the victory, though.
76/74/78
In the Ring
Back from commercial break, Nitro and Melina are in the ring. They yell at Lilian Garcia to step into the ring. Melina takes Lilian's mic.
Melina (firm): Make the announcement again! Who won that match?
Lilian is confused.
Melina: You do speak English, don't you? Make the announcement!
Lilian (doing as she's been asked, repeating the announcement): The winners of the match: Chavo Guerrero, Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms, and Nitro!
Nitro grabs the mic.
Nitro: That's right! Nitro! I won, because I am a winner. (Indicating himself and Melina). We are winners! Jeff Hardy may be wearing my title, but he isn't fit to carry our luggage. Nitro and Melina are the hottest act in this business, and it's time for us to be recognized for that, dammit!
The crowd heckles Nitro and Melina, who cover each other's ears. They wear looks of disgust. The opening notes of My Time then play, and WWE Champion John Cena steps out onto the entrance! Nitro and Melina are fuming, and they back into the corner of the ring as Cena steps into it. He has a mic. He looks over Nitro and Melina and shakes his head before speaking.
John Cena: Nitro and Melina. Congratulations on the win tonight. That's great. And-- and, thank you. Really.
Nitro: We're not in the mood for games, Cena!
Melina: What do you want?!
Cena: Relax, ya'll. Thank you for setting us all straight: letting us all know that you're winners. See, it's funny. I thought-- I thought you two were losers. I mean, winners don't get their asses kicked like you did, Nitro -- by yours truly -- on Smackdown! last week.
Nitro and Melina are scandalized by the remark.
Cena: And I don't know any winners who are groupies of Kevin Federline, man. No, see. I never would've known that you guys weren't actually losers unless you'd come out here like you did and said so.
Nitro: You just wait until New Year's Day, Cena! K-Fed is going to humiliate you, and the whole world is going to be tuned in to see it!
Cena: You think it's gonna go down like that?
Nitro: Oh, I know it's going down like that! Matter of fact, I think I might just do our close, personal friend K-Fed a favor and start softening you up right here, right now!
Nitro charges at Cena, but Cena ducks and immediately lifts Nitro up and drops him with the FU! Melina is horrified. Nitro rolls to the outside and Melina fusses over him. Cena poses in the ring as the crowd pops.
Cena: See, I think that's how it's gonna go down on New Year's, K-Fed and I-- can't-- wait. But I guess I've got one or two other things to take care of first. King Booker and Umaga. The monarch and the freak of nature. You guys want to take me out this Friday night on Smackdown!? Well, that's funny, because-- because I just happen to want to do exactly the same thing to you. All you need to know is that I've got a partner and that on Smackdown! in four days? The champ-- will be there!
Cena's music hits and he slowly returns to the back. Melina looks on in disgust as she continues to try and revive the unconscious Nitro.
85%
Nitro gained overness.
In the Ring with Lilian Garcia
After another break, Lilian Garcia stands at mid-ring.
Lilian Garcia: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the Carolinas' own-- Nature Boy, Ric Flair!
Flair is scheduled to come out and address where his career is headed coming off a Survivor Series victory, but instead of Ric Flair's music, it is that of Mr. Kennedy which plays following Lilian's introduction! Kennedy heads down to the ring and the house lights dim. The usual spotlight illuminates Kennedy in the ring. His microphone drops into the center of the ring and he speaks.
Mr. Kennedy: Correction, Lillian. I-- am-- Mister-- Kennedy! (Pause...). KENNEDY! And I am the fastest rising star in the WWE. I've beaten World Champions. I've triumphed over The Undertaker -- I've drawn the Phenom's blood! I am the Superstar to watch. In fact, in a lot of ways, I am the polar opposite of your "Nature Boy." Ric Flair is over-the-hill. My God, Ric Flair was in the twilight of his career a decade ago, and me? I haven't even begun to enter my prime. You ain't seen nothin' yet. Ric Flair is irrelevant; Mr. Kennedy is shattering records, exceeding all expectations, and setting new standards in Sports-Entertainment. Why did I come down to this ring unannounced? Why did I pull the rug out from under Ric Flair? The answer is simple. The answer is that what I have to say matters. Ric Flair is an insignificant narcissist who doesn't seem to grasp the fact that he has overstayed his welcome. Mr. McMahon says that only the strong will survive in the new WWE, and that's why it's me who's standing in this ring right now -- not The Undertaker, not Ric Flair. But Mr. Kennedy.
Kennedy stares intensely into the camera. Ric Flair's music then begins! Flair, wearing one of his custom-tailed suits and looking rested after a week off, walks down the aisle, incredulous at Kennedy's gall. Kennedy looks on trying to mask his nervousness as Flair steps into the ring. After soaking up the crowd response, Flair addresses Kennedy.
Ric Flair: Did no one tell you? This-- this, my friend, is Flair Country.
The crowd seems to concur. Kennedy is irked.
Flair: And if you think for a minute that anyone buys the [censored] you're selling about The Undertaker, you can think again. You can stand out here all night and try to convince these people -- and yourself -- that Ric Flair is a nobody, but that won't change the fact that this business wouldn't be what it is today if it wasn't for the Nature Boy.
Flair removes his jacket and tosses it aside.
Flair: I was selling out arenas and winning world titles when you were in diapers, pal, and I'm doing it to this day. I've had more gold, money, and women than you'll ever even dream of having, Kennedy, and that is a statement of fact. One of the two people in this ring is out of his league, and I'll give you a hint: it ain't me!
Flair has gotten worked up and his face his red, the sweat pouring down his face. An ever-more anxious Kennedy swallows.
Flair (smiling): You're a talkative guy. Don't you have anything to say?
Kennedy: I-- I've got no beef with you, Flair. You've jumped the gun; misinterpreted me.
Flair: Ah. I see. Then maybe you'll be able to interpret me when I tell you to drag your sorry ass out of this ring before I do it for you.
Kennedy stares at Flair meekly for a moment. He then makes a gesture of deference and backs off. He begins to climb through the ropes as if he is going to exit. Flair turns his back and as soon as he has done so, Kennedy pearl harbors him from behind! Flair is sent down on all fours. He tries pulling himself up, but Kennedy shamelessly kicks Flair in the midsection. Kennedy continues putting the boots to Flair. Flair won't give in, though; he again tries to stand, but as he kneels, Kennedy gives him a couple of right hands and then a boot right in the nose. Flair ends up back down on the canvas. Kennedy mocks Flair's strut and utters a couple of "whoos!" as the residents of Flair Country register their disapproval. Kennedy grabs the microphone and speaks into it as he looks down on the fallen Flair.
Kennedy: Who's the legend now? Don't say I never warned you, Flair.
Kennedy is extremely pleased with himself. Officials and medics come down to the ring to check on Flair. Kennedy tries sticking around to admire the damage he's done, but agents sternly order him to the back.
78%
Extreme Rules - Extreme World Championship Match
5 -- Big Show (with Paul Heyman) vs. Bobby Lashley ©
During the segment prior to the match, we see Ron Simmons holding a punching bag for Bobby Lashley backstage as Lashley warms up with some practice strikes. JR reminds us that Simmons was the first black World Champion in Sports-Entertainment and that Lashley is the first black Extreme World Champion. Perhaps Simmons is becoming somewhat of a mentor to Lashley.
Show is not a happy camper during his entrance; he faces either his second Extreme World Championship reign or an indefinite suspension. When Show reaches the ringsteps, instead of climbing up them, he picks them up and tosses them into the ring indicating that this will be an Extreme Rules match in every sense of the word! The champion enters to a pop with his title. He hops up onto the ring apron. Show heads right over to Lashley to attack but Lashley is one step ahead, hitting Show with a shoulderblock to the midsection through the ring ropes. Lashley hops over the top rope and kicks away at Show. Lashley, with momentum on his side, whips Show front-first into the corner. Lashley catches Show with a massive belly to back suplex. Lashley goes for an early pin but an impressive, angered Show powers out with authority. Lashley again shoves Show into the corner and hits him with strikes and boots. Show counters with a simple, ugly headbutt that sends the champion crashing to the mat. Show returns Lashley to a vertical base and slaps him across the chest with a few giant-sized chops. Show whips Lashley into the corner. Show charges in and backsplashes Lashley, crushing him. Heyman looks pleased. Show picks up those ringsteps. He charges at Lashley in the corner, looking to bash him in the head with the steps, but Lashley ducks. The steps go flying back to the outside. Lashley hits more Shoulderblocks. Show finally shoves him to the ground, though. Show picks Lashley up and executes a Sidewalk Slam. Show drops a big elbow, and then sets Lashley up in the corner. Show nails a Vader Bomb from the middle rope! Somehow, Lashley is able to kick out at two. Show is furious. He rolls to the outside and retrieves a table from under the ring. Show sets it up at ringside. He rolls back into the ring. Lashley is sent into the ropes. Show goes for the Big Boot, but Lashley dodges and Show crotches himself! Lashley pounds on Show, trying to send him crashing through the table below but Show is able to hold onto the ropes for dear life. Show hits Lashley with another headbutt, and this time Show reopens that head wound that Lashley suffered and had stitched the night before. Show returns to the center of the ring and locks Lashley in a Cobra Clutch, transitioning into a backbreaker. Lashley gets a shoulder up before the three count. Show clubs Lashley on the back and signals for the Chokeslam. Show grabs Lashley by the neck, but Lashley drops to his knees. Using his amateur background, Lashley armdrag rolls Show into a pinning predicament. Show kicks out. Lashley plays to the crowd and gets Show up in a Suplex! Heyman has had enough of this and signals to the back. His Personal Security rushes the ring while Big Show bails to the outside to try and recover. One of the riot guards receives a spear from Lashley. Lashley then ducks a nightstick shot from the second guard and takes him out with an exploder suplex. Show grabs the discarded nightstick and brings it into the ring with him. Lashley takes a shot to the skull with the nightstick. This is all legal under Extreme Rules. Show stands on Lashley, pressing all 500 pounds of him right onto Lashley's chest. Show drops an elbow and he, Heyman, and the announcers all assume it's over. Lashley gets his foot under the rope, though, and it's not over yet! Show again lifts Lashley up and prepares to lift him into a press slam. Lashley evades the move and sends Show into the corner. Lashley splashes Show twice. Heyman climbs up onto the apron. Lashley grabs Heyman by the lapel of his suit and nails him with a right hand; Heyman goes crashing through the table at ringside! Lashley turns back to Show, who is moving toward him; Spear by Lashley! Big Show has absorbed all he possibly can; Lashley hooks the leg and 1--2--3! It's over!
WINNER: Lashley by pinfall.
Lashley retains the Extreme World Championship, Big Show is suspended, and Show can't believe it! Heyman and his Personal Security are down and out at ringside amongst the wreckage of the shattered table. Big Show has both of his hands on his head at ringside as he absorbs the gravity of his situation. Lashley stands in the center of the ring holding his title high; he has now proven that he is the real deal. Ron Simmons joins Lashley in the ring to congratulate him as RAW concludes!
69/75/55
Big Show lost overness. Bobby Lashley gained overness.
Overall Rating: 78% (same as last week)
Television Rating: 6.51 (increase from last week)
--Big Show's storyline suspension will keep him off TV and the road indefinitely. Show is suffering from serious back problems and could require surgery. The tentative plan had been to program Show against Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania in homage to Hogan/Andre the Giant, but those plans are now up in the air given Show's condition.--The plan is to continue to use Ron Simmons on-air as Bobby Lashley's coach/trainer and mouthpiece.
--Smackdown! preview: King Booker & Umaga vs. John Cena & a partner and Mickie James's tribute to Trish and Lita are confirmed by WWE.com. More matches will likely be set up for Armageddon. A total of nine matches are tentatively planned for the event, with only Booker vs. Cena and Benoit vs. Jeff Hardy official at this point.
-
December 3 2006
Augusta, GA -- James Brown Arena
Attendance: 9028
Announcers: Joey Styles & Tazz
Singles Match
Matt Striker vs. The Sandman
A confident Striker makes his way to the ring to "educate" The Sandman. Sandman, as usual, heads down to the ring from the stands, downing a couple of beers atop the ringside barrier before entering the ring. As soon as Sandman stands in the middle of the ring with his Kendo Stick, Striker decides to bail to the outside and stall. Sandman will have none of this; he chases Striker around the ring. He prevents Striker from escaping into the crowd and proceeds to cane him multiple times across the back. Sandman removes Striker's sweater vest to reveal a number of sick welts resulting from the cane shots. Sandman sends Striker into the ring. Striker tries begging off in the corner. Sandman continues his attack, but Striker knees him in the gut and drops Sandman with a shoulder neckbreaker. Striker delivers a number of nasty facewashes to Sandman in the corner. Striker picks up Sandman's cane and taunts the crowd before swinging at Sandman. Sandman moves to avoid the shot and Striker connects with the turnbuckle only. Sandman hits Striker with a DDT. Sandman sets up for a stuff piledriver and Striker wiggles his way out of it. Sandman blocks a couple of punches. He whips Striker into the ropes and catches him with an unexpected Heinekenrana! Sandman plays to the crowd while Striker again tries crawling to the outside. Sandman, though, grabs Striker by the tights and gives him the White Russian Legsweep, complete with the ais of the kendo stick. It's academic from there: 1-2-3. Sandman wins, having finally shut the pesky Striker up, and our opening bout concludes with a feel-good finish.
WINNER: Sandman by pinfall.
66/68/62
Backstage
Johnny Nitro and Melina arrive at the arena. Kristal Marshall accosts them.
Kristal: Nitro, Melina. Neither one of you is scheduled to be at December to Dismember. What, exactly, are you doing here?
Johnny Nitro: C'mon, Kristal. Have you taken a look around? This show is just begging for some A-listers.
Melina: And here we are.
Nitro: But there's another, equally serious reason for us to be here tonight: Matt Hardy.
Kristal: What about him?
Nitro: Look at my waist, babe. What seems to be missing?
Kristal: The-- the Intercontinental Championship?
Nitro: The Intercontinental Championship. You see, the Hardy Boyz seem to have a nasty habit of screwing WWE Superstars out of their titles.
Melina: Nitro and Gregory Helms were both part of Team Rated RKO at Survivor Series last week. And the last thing we want to see happen is for another superior talent like Helms to be duped by one of the Hardys.
Nitro: See, Kristal? We're here to ensure that justice is done here tonight. When Matt Hardy challenges Gregory Helms for the Cruiserweight Championship tonight, we'll be watching. Very closely.
Nitro and Melina smile, then scowl at Kristal and leave.
78%
Extreme Rules Match
Tommy Dreamer vs. Daivari (with The Great Khali)
Dreamer is introduced first, and then the heels enter. Daivari handles his and Khali's intro in the ring, turning his back on Dreamer and launching into a rant in Persian. Dreamer will have none of this and, with the crowd's approval, attacks Daivari from behind. Daivari is rocked by right hands and forearms. Dreamer sets Daivari up and sends him into the air with a back bodydrop. Dreamer quickly takes advantage of the Extreme Rules stipulation, going outside to grab a chair. Khali glares at Dreamer but doesn't yet interject himself into the action. Dreamer sets the chair up in the ring and Daivari receives a drop toehold right onto the folded chair. Daivari sells a jaw injury. Dreamer nails a sitout side slam and attempts a pinfall but Daivari kicks out. Daivari begins to focus on Dreamer's knee, trying to chop the taller man down to size. Daivari dropkicks the knee and then uses the chair on it. Daivari sets Dreamer up in the corner and charges in with the chair, but Dreamer gets a foot up, sending Daivari crashing to the floor. Dreamer is able to lift Daivari onto his shoulders despite the damage to his knee. Tommy looks to be going for a Spicolli Driver, but Khali then steps onto the ring apron. Dreamer drops Daivari and turns his attention to Khali. Khali sends Dreamer down to the mat hard with a chop. Dreamer then receives the double choke drop again, and he's for all intents and purposes out cold. Joey Styles reminds us that Daivari's involvement is perfectly legal given Extreme Rules. Khali helps Daivari to his feet. Daivari directs traffic and Khali sets Dreamer's limp body up on the chair in the center of the ring. Daivari heads to the top rope. He comes off with a modified frog splash, landing atop Dreamer and the chair. This gives him the pinfall and the victory. The formidable Daivari/Khali tandem stand tall in the ring post-match.
WINNER: Daivari by pinfall.
69/65/73
Backstage with Kristal Marshall
Kristal is with Vince McMahon in his office.
Kristal: Mr. McMahon, everyone's taking about it. Everyone wants to know. Who will be replacing Rob Van Dam in the Extreme Elimination Chamber tonight? Who's the sixth man?
Mr. McMahon: Well, Kristal, I realize that there's a lot of debate, a lot of speculation as to who the replacement entrant in the Extreme World Championship match tonight will be. Of course, Paul Heyman and Big Show have argued that Hardcore Holly is rightfully next in line for the spot. That would certainly work in their favor. Or perhaps it's time to bring in another ECW Original. An ECW Original such as... Y2J, Chris Jericho. Or another former ECW World Champion, perhaps, along the lines of Bam Bam Bigelow or Mike Awesome. But then there's the fact WWE is one big, not-so-happy family again to consider: anyone from the Samoan Bulldozer Umaga to The Boogeyman could complete in the Extreme Elimination Chamber tonight!
Kristal: The suspense is killing me! Who is it, Mr. McMahon?
McMahon: Kristal, there is only one thing I'm prepared to reveal about tonight's main event at this time, and that is that it is going to be a bloody, violent, gory fight to the finish. A fight for the Extreme World Championship. A fight for survival!
91%
Cruiserweight Championship Match
Matt Hardy vs. Gregory Helms ©
The bitter rivalry between the childhood friends continues with the gold on the line. Helms opens things up with a brazen slap to the face of Hardy, who returns the favor! Helms charges at Hardy in the corner and gets backdropped out of the ring! Hardy, a house afire, catapults himself over the top and goes crashing onto Helms on the outside. Both men are slow to get up. When they do, Hardy hits the Side Effect right on the concrete! Hardy lifts Helms back to his feet but Helms hits a back elbow. He then whips Hardy hard into the guardrail. Helms hits Hardy with a leg lariat against the barrier and then tosses Hardy back into the ring. Helms with a double knee facebreaker. He whips Hardy into the ropes. Hardy ducks a clothesline and bounces off the ropes with a crossbody block for a two count. Inverted atomic drop by Hardy and then a whip into the corner. Matt nails Helms with a clothesline and then the spirited bulldog for a two count. Hardy stays on top of Helms, slamming him in the center of the ring and then heading up top. Hardy connects with a Moonsault! He only gets a two count. Gutwrench powerbomb by Hardy. Hardy lets Helms get to his feet and then moves in for the Twist of Fate. Helms has the move well-scouted and counters with a desperation belly to back. Back on their feet, Helms kicks Hardy in the gut and hits him with a Facejam for a nearfall. Helms heads up to the top rope now and looks to connect with a crossbody. Hardy moves out of the way and Helms connects with nothing but canvas! Hardy dropkicks Helms into the corner. Hardy then hits ten mounted punches as the crowd counts along. Hardy takes a stunned Helms down with a frankensteiner and goes for the pin. At this point, Johnny Nitro and Melina head to the ring and Styles is quick to point out that their presence is uncalled for. Helms kicks out of the cover. Hardy warns Nitro and Melina to keep their distance. Helms capitalizes with a shoulder to the midsection of Hardy. Helms goes for the Shining Wizard but Hardy catches the boot. Hardy catapults Helms face-first onto the turnbuckle. Nitro moves to inject himself into the action, but that brings Jeff Hardy running in from the back as an equalizer! Jeff and Nitro end up battling to the back. Meanwhile, Hardy plants Helms with a Swinging Neckbreaker. He goes up top and connects with a big splash! Alas, Helms gets his foot on the bottom rope before a three count can be made. Helms takes a couple of right hands. Hardy again tries putting the champion away with the leg drop from the second rope, but Helms moves to avoid the maneuver. Helms comes out of nowhere with the Nightmare on Helms street. He then goes into a pinning combination using the tights for leverage and retains the Cruiserweight Championship!
WINNER: Gregory Helms by pinfall.
Helms quickly rolls to the outside, clutching his title belt. Hardy, having been screwed again, glares at Helms, signalling that their business still has yet to be finished!
82/70/94
Cruiserweight Title gained image.
In the Ring
Josh Matthews is standing by.
Josh Matthews: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome... Kelly Kelly!
The gregarious Kelly Kelly makes her way to the ring, smiling and waving to the fans. She enters the ring and Matthews addresses her.
Matthews: Kelly Kelly, you requested this interview time tonight, and I've got to wonder, what gives?
Kelly Kelly: Oh, Josh. You know me. And you know that I? Am an exhibitionist. I'm also a lot like CM Punk -- my one addiction is competition. And so I came to December to Dismember to issue a challenge to any of the divas in the back: an open challenge for a Hot Bodies Contest, right here and right now!
The crowd does not object to his proposal.
Matthews: Well, I guess that's pretty straight forward. Who's going to accept the challenge?
Matthews and Kelly look toward the entrance. To their surprise, Mike Knox's TitanTron video begins to play and he heads to the ring, not looking pleased. Styles reminds us of the recent strain on Knox and Kelly's relationship. Kelly looks exasperated as Knox steps into the ring.
Matthews: Mike Knox, I don't think you were quite what Kelly Kelly or the fans had in mind...
Mike Knox: You can take a hike, Josh Matthews. And as far as this "Hot Bodies Contest" goes, you can forget it. Kelly Kelly is my girlfriend, and she's exposed herself publicly for the last time. I'm through trying to be patient. You can all go to hell; each and every one of you!
Kelly Kelly looks at Knox with disappointment. She seems to put up a resistence to his demands that they return backstage. Tired of playing games, Knox tosses Kelly Kelly over his shoulder and leaves the ring with her. He carries her toward the back and she continues to resist.
When Knox is halfway up the ramp, CM Punk appears at the entrance! The crowd pops as Punk heads down to the middle of the aisle and goes face-to-face with Knox. Punk appears to be trying to convince Knox to put Kelly down. Knox yells that this is none of Punk's business. Punk folds his arms, signalling that he's not walking away from this. Knox puts Kelly aside and, at the end of his rope, takes a swing at Punk. Punk moves and Knox clumsily trips on his own feet and lands on the floor. He stands up and is met by a stiff sidekick from Punk! Knox has been knocked out cold. Kelly Kelly looks on with glee. She hugs the ever-so-humble Punk, who of course has no choice but to return the embrace. Kelly Kelly gives Punk a "thank you" kiss and watches adoringly as he heads to the back. Kelly Kelly then looks down at the pathetic, fallen Knox and walks away for the last time.
51%
Singles Match
Balls Mahoney vs. Kevin Thorn (with Ariel)
Balls makes his way to the ring with the support of the crowd. Thorn and Ariel then do their elaborate entrance, but it is cut short -- Balls attacks Thorn while he is posing with Ariel in the ring. The house lights are brought back on and Balls unloads on Thorn with several stiff shots before tossing him over the top rope. Ariel tends to her man on the outside. Thorn slides back into the ring. Balls goes right back after his foe, but Thorn uses a drop toehold to gain an advantage. After stomping on Balls, the Goth takes the Jersey native down with a clothesline. Ariel cheers while Thorn executes a gutbuster and gets a two count. As Thorn continues to work his opponent over, Styles and Tazz continue to wonder what it is that Thorn and Ariel have against Balls. Thorn looks to set up for a Chokebomb on Mahoney, but Balls mounts a comeback, countering with a jawbreaker. Balls inflicts further damage on the lower face with a Superkick. Two count for Mahoney. Ariel hops up on the apron to screech at Balls, who responds simply by whipping Thorn into Ariel, knocking her back down to the floor. Balls then rattles off the combo of punches. He gets another nearfall after the wind-up shot. Ariel is upset when Balls nails a Legdrop on Thorn. Balls then indicates to the crowd that he's ready to end this thing; he goes to the outside and brings in a chair. Styles reminds us that Extreme Rules do not apply here; indeed, referee Mike Posey argues with Balls when he returns to the ring with a chair. With Balls distracted, Thorn sets up for a Big Boot and blasts Balls with the move. Thorn bears his fangs and then hits Balls with a Crucifix Powerbomb. This secures him the victory.
WINNER: Kevin Thorn by pinfall.
Things don't quite draw to a close there. Thorn and Ariel stand over Balls and grin in the darkness. It is not Thorn's music that begins to play but rather that of the Brood. Indeed, Gangrel is elevated to the entrance surrounded by a ring of fire and he walks to the ring with his goblet. Ariel and Thorn hold the ring ropes open for Gangrel. At mid-ring, Gangrel drinks and spits out some of the "blood" in the goblet. He proceeds to dip his thumb in the liquid and "annoint" the unconscious Balls with it on the forehead. Gangrel raises the goblet high in the air and is flanked by Ariel and Thorn. Styles and Tazz both are uncomfortable by the apparent rise of a new, bizarre contingent in WWE.
59/48/70
Balls Mahoney lost overness. Kevin Thorn gained overness.
Extreme Elimination Chamber - Extreme World Championship Match
Big Show © (with Paul Heyman) vs. Bobby Lashley vs. CM Punk vs. Test vs. Sabu vs. vs. Sylvester Terkay (with Elijah Burke)
Prior to ring entrances, Styles and Tazz announce that a six-man tag has been signed for RAW as a result of a variety of recent tensions: The Hardy Boyz will team with Chris Benoit to take on the team of Chavo Guerrero & Johnny Nitro & Gregory Helms.
In each corner of the ring enclosed by the structure is a weapon freely available for use during the match: a steel chair, a folding table, a metal chain, and 2x4 wrapped in barbed wire. The first combatant to make his entrance is Big Show, along with Paul Heyman. Show takes his place in one of the cells. Bobby Lashley, CM Punk, and Test are the next three to enter and take their places in their respective cages. The fifth man to walk down the aisle is Sabu; he will be one of the two competitors who will start the match. Finally, the formidable Sylvester Terkay heads to the ring with handler Elijah Burke. Terkay will be Rob Van Dam's replacement for the match! Burke joins Joey Styles and Tazz on commentary and reminds viewers that Terkay, to whom he is now referring as "The Predator," is an Elijah Burke Production. Sabu and Terkay face off before the opening bell. From the start, Terkay is out to prove that he deserves consideration as a possible Extreme World Champion; he hits Sabu with various leg and arm strikes. Despite being knocked around a bit in the opening minute or two, Sabu regains some ground by responding to a whip into the ropes by springing off of them with a moonsault onto Terkay. At the conclusion of the first three minute period, Test's chamber opens. Sabu "greets" him by tossing the chair into his face. Terkay attacks Sabu from behind and then Terkay and Test work together, sending Sabu hard into the bulletproof glass of Test's now-vacant chamber. Terkay holds Sabu while Test charges in with a big boot. Sabu ducks and Test knocks Terkay down! Sabu sets up the table in the middle of the ring. Sabu then flies at Test with a bodypress but Test catches him. Test lifts Sabu up, preparing for a TKO, but Sabu slips out. Sabu grabs the chair again and goes Air Sabu on Test. Sabu lays Test out on top of the table and signals for an Arabian Face Buster onto the table. Sabu climbs to the top rope but is cut off at the pass by Terkay, who destroys Sabu with a Face Paver reverse chokeslam right off the top! Terkay goes for the cover, and Sabu is eliminated! Soon after, CM Punk is released from his chamber. Terkay and Test are exchanging blows. Terkay knocks Test in Punk's direction; Punk takes Test off his feet with a Legsweep DDT. Terkay then charges at Punk, who catches the Predator with a Roundhouse Kick. Terkay stumbles into the corner. Punk wastes no time in following up with his charging high knee. Punk attempts a pin but Terkay powers out with authority. Test comes at Punk from behind with the chain. He whips Punk on the back a number of times and then wraps it around his fist. He is poised to take a shot at Punk in the face with the chain, but Punk ducks and then hits Test with a surprise Snapmare and dropkick to the back of the head. Punk retrieves the chain and the crowd pops as he contemplates putting it to use. Terkay, though, jabs Punk right in the kidneys from behind with the chair and inflicts further damage with a side suplex; Punk lands right on the back of his neck. Bobby Lashley's chamber opens! Test charges but receives a big backdrop. Terkay moves in to attack Lashley, and Lashley catches Terkay and gets the big man up in an overhead belly to belly. Lashley turns back to Test and sets up for a Dominator through the table, which is still in-tact. Before he can execute the move, Punk grabs Lashley's arm from behind. Punk walks the ropes and drops a leg on Lashley's chest, sending him down to the mat for a two count. Terkay wraps the chain around Punk's throat from behind and performs a vicious Hangman's Neckbreaker with the chain. Terkay locks Punk in a Rear Naked Choke but Punk slides to the ropes. Test gives Lashley Snake Eyes in another corner. Test then grabs the barbed wire-wrapped 2x4. He takes a swing at Lashley, but Lashley moves out of the corner and sends Test into said corner with a shoulder block. The 2x4 falls to the wayside for the moment, and Lashley takes Test out of the corner with a Spinebuster. He then impressively picks up Test with a hanging vertical suplex. Lashley is met by Terkay, who kicks Lashley in the midsection and delivers a double underhook suplex. Test struggles to his feet. Punk measures him and the crowd pops as Punk charges in and locks Test in the Uranage! The Anaconda Vice follows as usual. Heyman and Big Show look on in frustration as ally Test has no choice but to submit. Soon after, Show's chamber opens. While Terkay and Lashley are busy exchanging blows, Show walks up to Punk. Punk stands his ground, but Show sends him down several times with a series of skillet-sized chops to the chest. Lashley, meanwhile, sets up for the Exploder Suplex on Terkay but Terkay foils that attempt with a knee to the midsection. Terkay clotheslines Lashley to the mat and then sets up the chair flat on the mat. Terkay picks up Lashley for his version of the Muscle Buster. Show, who has incapacitated Punk with the Cobra Clutch toss, breaks up the attempted Muscle Buster. Show and Terkay exchange right hands. Lashley catches his breath and sets himself up on the middle rope. He dives off and knocks Show down with a flying shoulderblock. Terkay picks up the chair and takes aim at Lashley, who takes Terkay off his feet with a double leg takedown. Burke begins to panic on commentary. Terkay stands as Lashley plays to the crowd. Lashley picks Terkay up and, in a show of strength, drills him with the Running Powerslam! Terkay is eliminated! Lashley has no time to celebrate; when he stands, Big Show is waiting with the chain wrapped around his fist. Show hits a right hand right to the forehead of Lashley, and Lashley is busted wide open. Show stomps away on the bloodied Lashley. Punk interjects himself back into the action with Mui-Thai style kicks to the head of the Extreme World Champion. Show is rocked but maintains his vertical base. Punk perseveres in trying to weaken Show, who eventually responds with a headbutt that sends Punk crashing to the canvas. Show drags the table back to the center of the ring. He signals for a Chokeslam and lifts Punk up for the move through the table. Lashley turns Show around. Punk hits Show from behind with a Standing Sidekick. Lashley capitalizes and gets Show up with a suplex that sends Show crashing through the table! Lashley goes for the pin attempt but Show kicks out before three, thanks perhaps to Heyman's pleading with Show to kick out from ringside. It's every man for himself as Punk whips Lashley into the ropes and catches him with an Arm Lock Facebuster. Punk immediately picks Lashley up and sets up with a Double Underhook, perhaps looking for a backbreaker. Show, favoring his back, is back on his feet by this point. Seeing Show headed in his direction, Punk abandons the attempted move on Lashley. Show charges at both Lashley and Punk who duck the double clothesline attempt. Show is able to connect with the move upon a second attempt, though. Show focuses his follow-up attack on Punk. Punk escapes another try for a Chokeslam by locking the giant in an armbar, but Show ultimately tosses Punk off of him. Show with clubbing blows to the back of Punk. He then hits Punk with the Showstopper onto the chair! Show rolls Punk onto his back and scores the three count! As Punk is helped to the back by officials, Kelly Kelly comes out wearing a look of concern and checks on him. We are down to Big Show and Lashley with the Extreme World Championship on the line. Lashley tries for another suplex on Show but this time his back gives out. Big Show slams Lashley hard. Show then props up the barbed wire 2x4 in a corner. He brings Lashley to a standing position and whips him toward the 2x4! Lashley reverses the whip, though, and all of the weight of the Big Show is absorbed back-first by the barbed wire board in the corner! To make matters worse, Lashley follows through immediately with a Spear! This garners an "Oh My God!" from Styles. Heyman is beside himself at ringside. Lashley hooks the leg. 1--2-- and Big Show kicks out just in time! Blood is now flowing liberally from both Lashley's skull and Show's back. The remnants of the carnage of the match so far sprinkle the ring: the shattered table, the broken 2x4, the sickeningly-bent chair, the mangled chain. Lashley sends Show down to his knees with a chop block from behind. Lashley with a boot to Show's face. Lashley charges in a second time but Show picks up the nearby chair and swings wildly at Lashley, catching him in the side. Show picks Lashley up and launches him into one of the bulletproof glass doors of the chamber. Show with a Sidewalk Slam, but Lashley makes it out of an attempted cover! Show hits more chops and then looks to powerbomb Lashley straight to hell. At the last minute before being picked up, though, Lashley uses all of his reserves to backdrop the Big Show! Heyman can't believe it. Show, in shock, slowly stands after taking the move. Lashley hits another Spear, this time against the unforgiving backdrop of the steel structure. Lashley covers Big Show with his back, hooking the leg. 1-2---3!
WINNER: Bobby Lashley
It's over, and we've got a NEW Extreme World Champion! Heyman collapses to his knees in devastation. Big Show is absolutely spent and remains down on the canvas. Referee Mickey Henson hands the bloodied, breathless Lashley the Extreme World Championship belt. Lashley, who has gone to hell and back for the Championship, raises the title high in the air, ushering in a new era for the title. As the show goes off the air, Styles predicts that Bobby Lashley is about to redefine "Extreme."
74/75/75
Extreme World Championship lost image.
Overall Rating: 71%
--The feeling backstage was that December to Dismember was a throwaway show given the demise of the ECW brand. The show was used to tie up ECW storylines, establish a new direction for the Extreme World Championship, and introduce some new concepts (including the new Gangrel/Thorn/Ariel angle). Big Show will be taking an indefinite sabbatical due to the current strain on his back. Show has been in considerable pain for works and had been pulled from house show dates.--Despite the anticlimactic nature of the angle, his appearance at December to Dismember was likely Mike Knox's WWE swansong, at least for the time being. He has been reassigned to OVW. The CM Punk/Kelly Kelly storyline will nevertheless continue.
--There had been no plans to involve Sylvester Terkay in December to Dismember in any way until Rob Van Dam was injured.
--WWE.com's RAW preview hypes the Rated-RKO vs. Kendrick/London Unification Match; the Guerrero/Nitro/Helms-Benoit/Hardys six-man; and Bobby Lashley's first Extreme World Championship defense.
--In the dark match at December to Dismember, the FBI defeated The Highlanders. Robbie McAllister suffered a serious bicep tear during the match and will be on the shelf for upwards of a year. The injury all but guarantees that the Highlanders will be cut from the roster when their contracts expire in early 2007.
-
WWE Friday Night Smackdown!
December 1 2006
Buffalo, NY -- HSBC Arena
Attendance: 9045
Announcers: Michael Cole & John "Bradshaw" Layfield
Backstage
Smackdown! kicks off with a cold open as there is commotion in the back: Rob Van Dam is down and being attended to by agents and medics while a number of Superstars -- including fellow Extreme Elimination Chamber entrants Bobby Lashley, CM Punk, and Sabu -- look on. Extreme World Champion The Big Show, Test, and Paul Heyman then "stumble upon the scene."
Paul Heyman: Oh, my! What on earth has happened here?
Big Show: Good heavens! That's Rob Van Dam, isn't it?
Test: Has-- has he been attacked? This is an outrage!
Heyman directs his gaze toward the suspicious Lashley, Punk, and Sabu.
Heyman: It was one of you who did this, wasn't it? Someone wanted Rob Van Dam out of this Sunday's Extreme Elimination Chamber match!
CM Punk: Yeah. Gee. I wonder who that could be.
Heyman: How dare you point a finger in our direction? I wouldn't be surprised if it was you who ambushed Rob Van Dam. All of this "Straight Edge" business? It's all a sham, isn't it?
Bobby Lashley: Who do you think you're fooling, Heyman?
Heyman: You had just as much motive as anyone, Lashley. And what about the suicidal, homicidal, genocidal Sabu? I know firsthand how complex your history with Rob Van Dam is. And I seem to recall that RVD unashamedly stole your thunder Monday night on RAW. You had that 8-man tag team match won when Van Dam decided to pick up the winning pinfall for himself.
Josh Matthews walks up to cover the story.
Josh Matthews: Fans, welcome to Friday Night Smackdown!, and as you can tell, we've got a bit of a situation on our hands backstage at the HSBC Arena in Buffalo. Rob Van Dam is down, he's suffered what appears to be a significant injury, and thus far, no witnesses to the attack have surfaced. Paul Heyman, this puts somewhat of a new spin on Sunday's Extreme Elimination Chamber match at December to Dismember.
Heyman: Of course it does, Josh. There is once again a vacant spot in the match.
Big Show: And we all know who should receive that spot. Rob Van Dam's slot in the chamber should go to the next man in line: Hardcore Holly.
Test: No doubt.
Matthews: Of course, these kinds of matters are now out of your hands, Mr. Heyman; Vince McMahon has once again assumed total control of WWE.
Heyman: That may be so, Josh, but I'm quite confident that Mr. McMahon will make the right choice about the newly open spot in the Extreme Elimination Chamber. And, what's more: it's a moot point, because there is only one possible outcome to December to Dismember on Sunday night: my long-term investment the Big Show is walking out of Augusta, Georgia just as he'll be heading into it: the Extreme World Champion.
Test, Lashley, Sabu, and Punk look on. Meanwhile, RVD is stretchered out. What does this mean for Sunday night?
77%
Singles Match
Super Crazy vs. Daivari (with The Great Khali)
As usual, Daivari handles his and Khali's introduction himself, in Persian. As the bell signifies the start of this Cruiserweight contest, Super Crazy tries to focus on his opponent rather than the gigantic figure at ringside. Crazy out-quicks Daivari early on, dizzying him with a headscissors and then hitting him first with a dropkick and then a flying crossbody for a two count. Daivari soon surprises Crazy with a Japanese armdrag, though; he executes a legdrop from the second rope for a nearfall. Super Crazy mounts a comeback after nailing a Tilt-a-Whirl backbreaker. This prompts Khali to climb up onto the ring apron. The luchadore throws a dropkick in the giant's direction, but Khali swats off the attempt. Super Crazy pulls himself back to his feet, but Daivari grabs him from behind and drills him with the Hammerlock DDT for the win.
WINNER: Daivari by pinfall.
After the finish, Khali enters the ring and finishes Crazy off by picking him up and dropping him with his signature Double Choke Drop. Referee Charles Robinson's attempts to convince Khali to relent are completely fruitless. Finally, Tommy Dreamer rushes the ring to aid his former ECW colleague Super Crazy; Dreamer has, of course, had problems of late with Daivari and Khali. Dreamer, brave and perhaps a little foolish, stands nose to chest with Khali in the middle of the ring. Khali prepares to dispose with Dreamer, but Daivari stops Khali. Daivari utters a few phrases in Persian on the mic, and then translates into English; he challenges Dreamer to an Extreme Rules Match on Sunday night at December to Dismember! As Dreamer tends to Super Crazy, he nods his head to signal to Daivari his acceptance of the challenge! JBL predicts that Dreamer will live to regret the decision.
67/63/71
Backstage
William Regal and Dave Taylor are discussing strategy over tea backstage.
William Regal: It's quite simple, really: you and I will be the first in line for a shot at the new WWE World Tag Team Champions after next week's RAW, whether they are Brian Kendrick and Paul London or Rated RKO. And then we'll see who the butt of jokes around this bloody place is.
Taylor seems to agree. King Booker then walks up along with his Queen. Regal flares his nostrils.
Regal: You.
King Booker: Yes, it is I, William, and I've come to offer an armistice; a suspension of hostilities.
Regal: You need my help, don't you?
Booker: We need nothing! We come simply to proffer an opportunity. The opportunity of a lifetime.
Regal: Now, look here. I was quite serious when I vowed never to be the laughing stock of WWE ever again. I am no man's court jester!
Booker: I quite agree, my good man. You deserve to be taken seriously, and in my eternal wisdom, I feel that I have devised a surefire way to attain what it is that you seek.
Regal: Well, go on.
Booker: You are a superior grappler. I daresay you could out-wrestle any number of the peons in these wretched locker rooms. But why aim for anything but the top? Why aim for any man other than the WWE Champion, Jonathan Cena?
Regal: You're suggesting I wrestle John Cena?
Booker: I suggest you do so at once.
Regal: And why is it that I should focus on the WWE Champion rather than the World Heavyweight Champion, my King?
Booker: Hast thou forgotten, dear William, that We are not simply the World Heavyweight Champion, but the Champion of Champions? Defeat Cena first, my good man, and then ye shall find yourself in a far better position to challenge us. Shall ye or shant ye heed my advice?
Regal mulls his options, glancing at Taylor and then back at the royal couple.
Regal: Perhaps you're right, King Booker. Perhaps a victory over John Cena will be just the thing.
Booker's face lights up.
Booker: Ah! Then let the record show that on this day, William Regal has laid down an open challenge to Jonathan Cena for a match on this very Smackdown! battlefield. The better man will prevail, William. I know it!
94%
King Booker and William Regal gained overness.
Backstage
Road agent Michael Hayes finds Jamie Noble wearing a scowl in catering.
Michael Hayes: Jamie. I hear you're a little upset about your match tonight.
Jamie Noble: No kiddin', I'm a little upset! Is this somebody's idea of a joke, or somethin'? Teamin' me up with Jimmy Wang Yang?
Hayes: You heard what Mr. McMahon said on RAW: he's shaking things up. Management thinks you and Jimmy might just be a good match. I mean, you're both southern boys. You've both got that quick, Cruiserweight style. You never know, Jamie. The two of you might end up taking off.
Noble: And what if I refused to do this match tonight? I ain't got the first thing in common with this Jimmy Wang Yang.
Hayes: Kid, you're not really in much of a position to refuse.
Jimmy Wang Yang walks up with Amy on his arm. He flashes his smile at Noble and extends his hand.
Jimmy Wang Yang: I'm Jimmy Wang Yang -- and I'm yer boy!
Noble testily swats Yang's hand away and walks off, throwing up his arms. Whether he likes it or not, their tag team debut is next!
58%
Tag Team Match
Jamie Noble & Jimmy Wang Yang (with Amy) vs. Kenny & Johnny (with The Spirit Squad)
Yang and his reluctant partner enter, followed by the Squad, who appear to be back on the same page coming off of their recent problems. Noble starts off the match against Kenny, who enjoys a size advantage. In an odd twist, Eric Bischoff is seen seated in the front row, taking notes on the match without explanation. Back in the ring, Kenny and Johnny make quick tags and wear down the former Cruiserweight champion. Noble has more than one opportunity, though, to make an effort to tag in the fresh man. Whether out of pride or stubbornness, Noble refuses to do so and suffers a number of near-falls. Finally, Noble slips out of an attempted vertical suplex by Kenny. Noble takes the bigger man down with a neckbreaker. Johnny enters the ring but receives a leg lariat for his troubles. Out of breath, Noble finally makes the tag to Yang! Yang clears the ring of the Squad members and hypes up the crowd. Mikey, Mitch, and Nicky offer comfort to Kenny and Johnny on the outside. Finally, Kenny and Johnny return to the ring and Kenny makes the tag to Johnny. Yang weakens Johnny with a series of rapidfire kicks. Johnny tries to maintain his balance in the middle of the ring, but Yang hits an Asai Moonsault off the ropes and picks up a two count. Johnny knows he needs to make the tag and crawls over to his corner. Kenny reaches out his arm for the tag, but as Johnny grows closer, Kenny slowly begins to pull back his hand! Kenny backs down the ringsteps, and Johnny is stunned and confused. Kenny directs a look of disgust toward Johnny. Kenny backs up the ramp with Mikey, Nicky, and Mitch, who all seem to have known that this was the plan all along! Johnny goes from being bewildered to furious. He pulls himself to a standing position and yells at his retreating teammates for an explanation. When he turns around, though, a fresh Noble is waiting. Noble kicks Johnny in the midsection and hits a Tiger Driver. It's over!
WINNERS: Noble & Yang by pinfall.
Post-match, Yang and Amy try getting Noble to join them in their celebration, but he remains less than thrilled to have been assigned Yang as a new partner. Johnny is unconscious in the ring while Kenny and the others watch with satisfaction from the entrance.
67/59/76
Backstage
Matt Striker is seated in his "classroom."
Matt Striker: Ever since being blacklisted by the corrupt New York City public school system, I've had a bit of extra time on my hands. Being as civic-minded as I am, it's become my custom to provide my services pro bono. For those wondering, "pro bono" is a Latin term. Consult a dictionary. Tonight, I offer my services to The Sandman. I'm going to educate The Sandman, just because I'm a nice guy. Monday night on RAW, the King of WWE -- the Champion of Champions, King Booker -- bested you in short order, Sandman. He proved that you are a reprobate just as your drunken, unsavory conduct suggests. Today's lesson is on the inference, Sandman. An inference is a conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning. What I can "infer" from your shameful performance on Monday night is that you are nothing more than white trash, and certainly not fit to be a part of the new, Dawinian WWE to which Mr. McMahon alluded on Monday night. Of course, in your case, a hands-on explanation would likely be of more value than a cogent explication. Therefore, I intend to illustrate my point in the ring on Sunday night at December to Dismember. Sandman? The time has come for you to be expelled.
77%
Matt Striker gained overness.
Backstage with Steve Romero
Romero is on the interview set with Gregory Helms.
Steve Romero: Ladies and gentlemen, the Cruiserweight Champion of the World, Gregory Helms.
Gregory Helms (disgusted): What did you just say?
Romero: I-- I said you're the Cruiserweight Champion of the World.
Helms: I'm a helluva lot more than that, Steve Romero, and you know it. I am the longest reigning champion in Sports-Entertainment.
Romero: Yes, you are. It was an oversight on my part not to have mentioned it.
Helms: Apology accepted. You know, Romero, the sad fact is that I have run through all of the competition WWE has to offer. That makes me undisputably the greatest Cruiserweight in the world today.
Before Romero has to respond, Matt Hardy walks up, unnerving Helms.
Helms: Oh, look. It's Matt Hardy, and he's come to steal my spotlight -- again.
Matt Hardy: I don't want to steal your spotlight, Greg. I just want to talk.
Helms: You and me? We got nothin' to talk about.
Hardy: You don't think we've got unfinished business?
Helms: Nothing's changed, Hardy. It's the same old story. After all these years, I'm still quicker than you, still more innovative than you, and still better looking than you. You were jealous of me when we were comin' up in North Carolina together, and you're jealous of me now.
Hardy: So, you're saying it's a fluke that I eliminated you in our Classic Survivor Series match last Sunday, is that it?
Helms: That's exactly what I'm sayin'.
Hardy: Hm. Maybe it's true. Maybe you are the greatest Cruiserweight on Earth. Then again, maybe you're not.
Helms: Do you have something to say to me, or not?
Hardy: Thing is, Greg: I'm back in shape. I'm back under the Cruiserweight limit, which means I qualify to challenge for the belt that's been around your waist since the Royal Rumble.
Helms (smirking): What makes you think you're any different from every other man I've humiliated out there in that ring during my illustrious reign?
Hardy: I've beaten you before, buddy, and I plan to do it again. Only this time, the Cruiserweight Championship'll be on the line.
Helms: Matt Hardy, Cruiserweight Champion? Ain't gonna happen.
Hardy: If you're so sure of that, why don't you come to December to Dismember on Sunday night and put the title on the line? Prove me wrong.
Helms, clearly torn, huffs and puffs for a moment.
Romero: What do you say, Helms?
Helms: I say-- I say-- I say I am gonna end this once and for all, on Sunday night! Get a good look at this title, Hardy, because it's as close as you're ever gonna get to it again!
Helms storms off, leaving Hardy satisfied.
72%
Singles Match
Balls Mahoney vs. Shelton Benjamin
The reintegration of the brands continues as former Extremist Balls Mahoney takes on Shelton Benjamin, formerly of RAW. Benjamin is able to outwrestle brawler Balls early on. Eric Bischoff can again be seen scouting the match and taking notes from his front row seat. Benjamin keeps Balls grounded and tries forcing him to submit to a Half Crab. Balls rallies with the support of the crowd. He hulks up and, to Shelton's horror, is able to pull off the "Balls! Balls! Balls!" series of punches, knocking Shelton off his feet with the final wind-up blow. Shelton kicks out at two, though. Balls attempts a Belly to Back suplex but Shelton blocks it and whips Balls into the far corner. Shelton charges in with the Stinger Splash but Balls moves out of the way. Shelton tumbles face first onto the mat. Before Balls is able to capitalize, freaky Ariel slithers down to ringside and exposes her fangs to Balls. Michael Cole notes that Balls has a history with Ariel and Kevin Thorn on "ECW on Sci-Fi." Balls instructs Ariel to get lost. In the meantime, Shelton recovers and is able to hit an unsuspecting Mahoney with a T-Bone Suplex for the win!
WINNER: Benjamin by pinfall.
Benjamin rolls out of the ring after having his hand raised. Ariel cackles at Balls. Balls looks to the crowd for approval and proceeds to chase Ariel toward the back. Just after Ariel disappears behind the curtain, Kevin Thorn emerges. Thorn jabs Balls with his cane and then hits him with the Crucifix, laying him out on the ramp. Thorn poses maniacally over the fallen Balls, and we're left to wonder why Thorn has chosen to renew his vendetta against Mahoney and what is behind it in the first place.
71/66/76
In the Ring: The Cutting Edge
After the break, Rated RKO music brings Edge and Randy Orton down to the ring for a special edition of The Cutting Edge dedicated to the retiring Lita. After the World Tag Team Champions enter the ring, Orton speaks.
Randy Orton: First of all, I'd like to remind everyone that Monday night on RAW, Randy Orton and Edge come one step closer to complete and total domination of this industry by becoming the first ever WWE World Tag Team Champions. And the best part is, Degeneration X will be there to bear witness to the whole thing.
Edge: And there is nothing anyone can do about it. But the Cutting Edge is coming to you tonight for another reason: to give you people the chance to redeem yourselves by showing some respect to Lita once and for all. This is a woman who has put her body on the line for years for your benefit. I happen to know exactly what that's like. She's sacrificed and bled, and you've rewarded her by taunting her and booing her and taking her for granted. And now she's walking away, and I say, more power to her. So, without further ado, I introduce to you a -- by God, a future WWE Hall of Famer: Lita!
Lita makes her way to the ring. Edge and Orton applaud her as she steps onto the Cutting Edge set. The crowd directs its usual chants toward her. Lita shakes her head.
Lita: Go on. Go on. You all can call me anything you like, because after tonight, I'll never have to put up with it again. How quickly they forget. You've all forgotten my broken neck. You've all forgotten what havoc this business has wreaked on my personal life for the past eight years. None of you give a damn. But that's okay. I don't mind. Because I'm finished. I'm done.
Edge: That's right, baby. Don't you let them get to you. You're going out on top. You're the greatest--
Edge's statement is interrupted by the sound of Mickie James's music. James heads down to the ring with her Women's Championship. The Rated RKO contingent frowns as Mickie steps through the ropes.
Edge: Who invited you, honey? What gives?
Mickie James: I'm not here to cause any trouble. I swear. I actually came down here to tell you something, Lita. I want you to know that even though we've had our differences lately, I respect you. You put me through hell over the past few weeks on RAW, but I haven't lost sight of the fact that just like Trish Stratus, you revolutionized this business for women. I wouldn't be here today if it weren't for you, and I wanted you to know that. You deserve a healthy, happy retirement.
Lita isn't sure what to make of the comments. Edge then speaks.
Edge: Retirement. Right. This is the end of the line for you, Lita. It's the end of an era.
Edge moves toward Lita and embraces her. Once they've finished the hug, Edge speaks again as Lita grows emotional.
Edge: But, you know, maybe it's for the best. You see, every diva's got a shelf life, Lita, and let's face it: yours is up. It's time for you to move on. It's time for me to move on. I'm due for a trade in. I'm due for an upgrade.
Orton nods at Edge in agreement. Lita is hurt by these remarks and looks to Edge for an explanation.
Edge: What? You need me to spell it out for you?
Lita is dismayed. Suddenly, Mickie hits Lita with a shot from behind. Lita is stunned by the blow. She turns around to face Mickie and takes a Women's Title belt shot to the face. Lita is out cold. Mickie kicks Lita to the outside of the ring, humiliating her during what was supposed to have been her sendoff into retirement. Mickie turns to Edge, who smiles at her. It seems that Mickie is what Edge had in mind when he spoke of an "upgrade." The despicable new pair share a sloppy kiss in the center of the ring as Orton looks on with approval. Can the Rated R Superstar sink any lower?! Edge, Mickie, and Orton leave proudly with their respective championships. Medics and officials tend to the discarded Lita.
73%
Edge lost overness. Mickie Jamies gained overness.
Backstage with Josh Matthews
Back at the interview set, Matthews is joined by a somewhat solemn Torrie.
Josh Matthews: Torrie Wilson, it's a well-known fact that your relationship with Carlito has been growing more serious in recent weeks, and I'm wondering if you might be able to provide a bit of insight into his condition on the heels of a beating at the hands of the Big Red Monster Kane at the conclusion of RAW just days ago.
Torrie Wilson: Well, Josh, Kane did some serious damage to--
Mr. Kennedy walks right onto the set, causing Torrie to stop mid-sentence.
Matthews: Ken, we, uh-- we're conducting an interview, here.
Mr. Kennedy: That's Mr. Kennedy, to you. And, you know, I find it hard to believe that of all the things to focus on coming out of Carlito's Cabana on RAW, you're focusing on Carlito's condition. I don't give a rat's ass about Carlito's condition, and neither do the people! Let's keep our eyes on the ball, here, Josh. Mr. Kennedy is the fastest-rising star in World Wrestling Entertainment. Survivor Series 2006 will go down as the year that I unseated The Undertaker as the Phenom. I realized my destiny last Sunday night. I shot right to the top of the food chain. That's the really story, here -- not Carlito's injury, not Kane and The Undertaker's little family feud. It's me! Now, if you can remember all of that, Torrie, I suggest you run back to your Caribean chump of a boyfriend and deliver the message. Got it? Good!
70%
Non-Title Match
William Regal (with Dave Taylor) vs. WWE Champion John Cena
Before the match gets underway, we see King Booker and Queen Sharmell settling into a royal banquet backstage as they prepare to watch the proceedings. Cole and JBL recap the situation involving Batista from the Survivor Series and again question The Animal's whereabouts. The announcers also confirm that a number of matches have been added to Sunday's December to Dismember. That said, WWE management have yet to render a decision regarding the vacancy of what was to have been Rob Van Dam's spot in the Extreme Elimination Chamber. Who will walk out of the pay-per-view the Extreme World Champion: Big Show, Bobby Lashley, Test, Sabu, CM Punk -- or a sixth man, entirely unexpected?
Regal is accompanied by his tag team partner for the match. Cena's entrance is energetic as usual, signifying his willingness to take on any challenge King Booker lays in his path. But Regal's new, no-nonsense style kicks in from the get go here as he opens the match with several vicious headbutts right to the skull of the champion. Regal scores an early two count after a double underhook powerbomb. Cena begins to turn the tide after ducking a clothesline and hitting a forearm. Regal fires off a couple of closed-fist punches, though, and rocks Cena against the ropes with a European Uppercut. Cena reverses an Irish Whip, but as Cena bounces off the ropes to hit Regal with a clothesline, Taylor pulls down on the top rope, causing Cena to go tumbling out of the ring onto the floor. Taylor begins laying in kicks to Cena's back. While Regal distracts Nick Patrick, Taylor whips Cena into the ringside barrier and then throws him into the ring. Regal sends Cena down with a knee strike and gets another two count. Regal sets up for a Fireman's Carry slam but Cena ends up reversing that into a FU attempt. Regal wisely grabs the ropes to prevent Cena from carrying out the move. Cena blocks a couple of punches and ducks a clothesline. Cena bounces off the ropes and hits his running shoulder block. Regal gets up but is hit with a series of clotheslines. Cena is on a roll and connects with the Killswitch powerbomb. Cena is about to go for the cover when Taylor enters the ring. Cena quickly tosses Taylor over the top rope. Cena's problems are just beginning, though: Johnny Nitro sprints to the ring with Melina in tow. Cole and JBL remind us of their "close friend" Kevin Federline's scheduled match with Cena on 1/1/07 at RAW. Nitro hops up on the ring apron but is knocked down by Cena. Cena turns his attentions back to Regal. Regal is able to pull Cena into an inside cradle, but Cena kicks out at 2.9! Both men get back to their feet; Cena pulls off a Spinebuster and then the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Regal pulls himself up and tries to find his bearings, but Cena is unstoppable: FU, and it's over!
WINNER: Cena by pinfall.
As Cena's music plays in recognition of his victory, Booker knocks his goblet of wine over in disgust and the Queen follows suit. Cena raises up his WWE Championship, and it is clear that he intends to unify his and the World Heavyweight Championship at Armageddon. Just when it appears that Cena has triumphed, Umaga slides into the ring out of nowhere and crushes Cena's windpipe with the Samoan Spike. Armando Alejandro Estrada watches with glee. The King and Queen react with similar enthusiasm from their VIP room backstage. Cole reminds us that Umaga did knock off Cena at last Sunday's Survivor Series. Our final visual on Smackdown! is of Umaga standing over the fallen WWE Champion who, on this night, had simply too many foes to overcome.
84/85/85
Overall Rating: 74%
Television Rating: 5.58
World Wrestling Entertainment PresentsDecember to Dismember
3 December 2006
Extreme Elimination Chamber - Extreme World Championship Match
Big Show © (with Paul Heyman) vs. Bobby Lashley vs. CM Punk vs. Sabu vs. Test vs. ???
Cruiserweight Championship Match
Gregory Helms © vs. Matt Hardy
Extreme Rules
Daivari (with The Great Khali) vs. Tommy Dreamer
Balls Mahoney vs. Kevin Thorn (with Ariel)
Matt Striker vs. The Sandman
--A number of sources backstage aren't ruling out the possibility of Bobby Lashley winning the Extreme Elimination Chamber at December to Dismember. Lashley recently inked a new, three-year deal.--The current target for Rey Mysterio's return is June 2007. Mysterio has agreed to a one year contract extension.
--Jim Ross reports in his blog that both Finlay and Mike "Simon Dean" Bucci have renewed their deals, as well. Ross notes that while Bucci is focusing on his behind-the-scenes duties at this time, he could reprise his on-air role at some point.
--Jerry Lawler has informed management that his Memphis commitments are such that he is no longer in a position to travel in order to do RAW every week and pay-per-views at least once per month. Lawler is expected to remain with WWE under a Legends program deal, but he'll be replaced as Jim Ross's regular broadcast partner beginning in 2007. No word on who the new RAW color man will be, but given the elimination of the brand extension, there is a good chance that the announce teams of RAW, Smackdown!, and Extreme will be reshuffled completely.
--As previously reported, roster cuts aren't expected to begin until the first of the new year. That said, those who know say that a number of talents -- including The Highlanders and Vito -- have expiring contracts that will likely be allowed to lapse.
--Management is high on the new Jimmy Wang Yang/Jamie Noble tag team, although there is talk of dumping diva search runner-up Amy from their act.
--Tracy Taylor, Angel Williams, and Eric Perez -- all of whom are currently assigned to Deep South -- have been given new contracts. Williams was being primed for a callup to Smackdown! last year but those plans have been scrapped. Perez was working ECW house shows before their cancellation last month. Brett and Brian Majors, meanwhile, are being evaluated and may be cut from the developmental program rather than offered extensions. Both brothers' current deals run through early 2007.
-
WWE RAW
November 27 2006
Pittsburgh, PA -- Mellon Arena
Attendance: 9048
Announcers: Jim Ross & Jerry Lawler
In the Ring
After RAW's usual opening and pyro, the music of the Chairman of WWE brings a confident, determined Mr. McMahon down to the ring. As he makes his way down the aisle, JR and the King wonder why Mr. McMahon did what he did to Batista last night, and why he has chosen RAW as the venue in which to address the issue. After absorbing the traditional heckling of the fans, McMahon speaks.
Mr. McMahon: Last week on this very program, I addressed all of the participants in last night's Traditional Survivor Series matches. I laid down the law and made it clear to those WWE Superstars that they were to wait until Sunday night to hash out their issues. I, Vincent Kennedy McMahon, issued a direct order and at the conclusion of the broadcast, each and every one of those men flagrantly disobeyed my command. As I watched the whole thing break down from the back, it occurred to me that somewhere along the way, the people who work for me seem to have forgotten exactly who it is that signs the checks around here. Perhaps they forgot it when Degeneration X left me in a pool of my own blood a number of weeks ago. Then again, it may very well have slipped the minds of the Superstars while my head was literally shoved up the Big Show's ass in Hell in a Cell. In truth, it doesn't matter when this change in attitude among the Superstars of RAW and Smackdown! and the Extremists of ECW occurred; what matters is that it did. And as you're all aware, this happens to be a special time of year for yours truly: not because of the Thanksgiving holiday, and not simply because tis the season during which you people are compelled to further line my pockets as you prepare for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. It's a time that's near and dear to me chiefly because of the Survivor Series. That's right. Survivor Series is an event that will forever live in infamy, because in 1997, I established that I am without question the most powerful individual in this business. I screwed Bret "The Hitman" Hart; you're damn straight, I did. And I did it because I could. I did it because I owned Bret Hart, just as I own each and every one of the WWE Superstars sitting in the back. This is my baby; this is my industry, and I will run it as I see fit, dammit. The defiance that I had to endure last week was simply unacceptable. The humiliation I've suffered at the hands of the Degeneration X-es and Stone Cold Steve Austins of the world will not stand. Last year, World Wrestling Entertainment declared that "the power was back." Well, I declare to you again that the power is back: the power is back in the hands of Vince McMahon. And if you don't believe me, I suggest you ask Dave Batista. Batista lost his last and final shot at the World Heavyweight Champion, King Booker, last night -- and he lost that match because of yours truly. He lost that match because I wanted to prove my point, and quite frankly, I think I was successful. And I asked all of my WWE Superstars and ECW Extremists here tonight in part to hear this message loudly and clearly, but also because I've decided to shake the foundation of Sports Entertainment to its very core. I control the very destiny of this business: I hold it in my hands. Last week demonstrated quite dramatically that things have gone too far. Things have gotten out of control. There are degenerates running wild on RAW. Smackdown! is completely without law and order. And ECW has never been anything but a cesspool of deviants and rejects. It's time to pull back on the reins. Five years ago when RAW and Smackdown! became separate entities, they became separate entities because I had no choice in the matter: I was suffering under the burden of the co-ownership of the WWE by Ric Flair. But things have changed. I beat Ric Flair game, set, match and I reduced him to the shell of a man he is now. RAW is mine once more. Hell, I've even got full ownership of ECW. I am the power, and the power is back. It's time to shake things up, and that is exactly what I'm going to do. You see, I won't be delegating authority anymore. Theodore Long, Paul Heyman, and Jonathan Coachman should consider themselves redundant. The WWE Superstars and ECW Extremists should consider themselves at my disposal; they perform at the pleasure of one man and one man only: Vincent K. McMahon. It's time to make things simple again. There will be no more petty, interbrand rivalries. There will cease to be a never-ending list of titles and champions in WWE. It's no longer a matter of RAW vs. Smackdown! vs. ECW; it's now an issue of Survival of the Fittest. One promotion, one roster of Superstars, and if the competition is too fierce for any of the men -- or women -- in the locker room, they will suffer the consequences of natural selection. That process starts right here, right now, and it culminates on New Year's Eve, live on pay-per-view at Armageddon. At that event, we're going to do some pruning. We're going to solve the problem of redundancy, because there will be a unification. A reunification. There will no longer be WWE Champion and a World Heavyweight Champion at the conclusion of that event; rather, from then on, Sports-Entertainment will have one WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Sports-Entertainment will have one set of WWE World Tag Team Champions. And the United States Champion and Intercontinental Champion will be one and the same. I told you that the power was back, and I meant what I said. Now, I'm sure you're all asking yourselves the same question: if Mr. McMahon wanted to shock the world; if he wanted to bring the Superstars back in line, why do it at the expense of Batista? Why reward King Booker? My actions last night were a means to an end. I have no bias toward King Booker, and to prove that, I've decided that the World Heavyweight Champion will make his return to RAW here tonight. As a matter of fact, he'll be facing off against a man he would consider a true peasant; he'll be facing off against The Sandman! Of course, speaking of Extremists, it is worth mentioning that, on this Sunday night, December 3rd, the ECW World Championship will be on the line in the first ever Extreme Elimination Chamber Match at December to Dismember on pay-per-view. Now, before I am accused of being out of touch with my audience, I submit to you that I have a full understanding of what it is that WWE fans crave. I understand that the bloody, hardcore violence of ECW has a particularly strong appeal to the masses, and it is with that in mind that I have decided to keep the ECW Championship alive. The ECW Championship will live on on RAW and Smackdown! as the WWE Extreme World Championship, and it will be contested exclusively under Extreme Rules. Of course, my pick for the Extreme Elimination Chamber on December 9th is my good friend and the current Extreme World Champion, the Big Show. As a matter of fact, to be frank, the four ECW "fan favorites" who have qualified to compete in that match have done little to impress me. But one of my many strengths is my fairness, my open-mindedness, and so I am going to give the four men to whom I allude ample opportunity to impress me tonight. Tonight, I have decided to take four of the toughest SOBs in Sports-Entertainment and to use them as a sort of collective, extreme measuring stick. Those four men are Hardcore Holly, Mike Knox, Finlay, and the Samoan Bulldozer himself, Umaga. And against them I am going to pit the four Extremists who have something to prove headed into December to Dismember, and they are the suicidal, homicidal, genocidal Sabu; the Straight Edge, CM Punk; Bobby Lashley; and Rob Van Dam. And, because I wouldn't want to leave him out, I've decided that the sixth man in the Extreme Elimination Chamber, Test, will be at ringside for expert insight and commentary during the match. One thing is for certain: we are about to find out who is truly extreme. Remember: survival of the fittest. To sum up, it would probably be best to borrow a phrase from -- well, from good ol' JR. "Folks: business is about to pick up."
A satisfied McMahon stands at mid-ring as the world reacts to his series of bombshells. Before commercial, Ross and Lawler promote Booker vs. The Sandman and the "Extreme Measuring Stick" 8-Man. Also, Carlito has invited Kane to appear as his guest on a special edition of the Cabana this evening to explain why he stabbed his own brother in the back last night at Survivor Series. Plus, will Batista respond to last night's devastating screwjob?
97%
Vince McMahon gained overness.
Non-Title Tag Team Match
Full Blooded Italians (with Trinity) vs. WWE Tag Team Champions Brian Kendrick & Paul London (with Ashley)
The opening match -- between former Smackdown!- and ECW-exclusive teams respectively -- illustrates the reintegrated nature of the WWE roster. As the champions perform their energetic entrance, Ross and Lawler note that Kendrick & London's unification match with Rated RKO at Armageddon will be their biggest to date. The athleticism of the four men involved in this match backs up Mr. McMahon's claim that competition will be stepped up in the "new" WWE; at one point, Guido and Mamaluke are double-teaming Kendrick on the outside and London breaks that up by performing a swan dive over the top rope onto all three men down below. Trinity, clad in her trademark caution tape, tries distracting Kendrick a few minutes later as he works over Guido in the ring. Ashley puts a stop to that by pulling Trinity off the turnbuckle and taking her down with a Thesz Press! Guido is able to make the tag to Mamaluke, but Kendrick slips out of an attempted Northern Lights Suplex and hits Mamaluke with Sliced Bread #2. London prevents Guido from breaking up the pin, and Kendrick & London pick up the victory in their spirited RAW debut!
WINNERS: London & Kendrick by pinfall.
London and Kendrick's victory celebration is cut unceremoniously short when Rated RKO hit the ring from the crowd. Orton catches London with an RKO while Edge hits Kendrick with a big Spear. A helpless Ashley can do nothing but look on and then tend to her men when they roll out of the ring. Rated RKO both wear smug grins at mid-ring.
74/61/87
In the Ring
Edge and Orton demand microphones from Lilian Garcia.
Edge: So much for your WWE Tag Team Champions.
Randy Orton: You know, Edge, I think we just made the pecking order abundantly clear. And we also made it clear that there's no reason to wait until Armageddon to do this Unification Match. I say it should be Rated RKO vs. whoever the hell those geeks were for the WWE World Tag Team Championships next week, here on RAW.
Edge: Sounds like a fine idea to me, Randy. You know, it'll be just another feather in our cap -- kinda like our victory last night at Survivor Series over Team DX.
Randy Orton: What do you think, Edge? Given the fact that we decimated DX yet again, do you think Shawn and Hunter will finally get the picture? Will they finally call off the nostalgic reunion tour?
Edge: If only, Randy; if only. No; I'm not holding my breath because, you see, I've come to terms with the fact that the only way Shawn Michaels and Triple H are going to assume their rightful places out to pasture is if we put them there.
Randy Orton: Oh, no, Edge; I think you mean when we put them there. And we will. I was the youngest World Champion in WWE history, and Triple H cut me off at the knees out of insecurity. You're the Rated-R Superstar -- the most controversial personality to step into a WWE ring in years. You're everything DX wishes they could still be. The problem is, we make Shawn Michaels and Triple H obsolete, and that's got to terrify them.
Edge: You're right. It's funny that Mr. McMahon should come out and talk about survival of the fittest, because from where I sit, it might be a good idea for someone to put the Heartbreak Kid and the Game on the endangered species list, because their days? They're numbered.
Just then, static appears on the TitanTron and Triple H and Shawn Michaels materialize from their locker room, where they're both enjoying SnoCones. Rated RKO are not amused.
Triple H: Whoa now, boys. Them's fightin' words!
Shawn Michaels: Now, now, Hunter; take it easy. You wouldn't want to cut Randy Orton off at the knees, again.
Triple H: Point taken. And, you know, my head is still smarting from that belt shot I took from Edge last night. Talk about controversial; that's never been done before!
Shawn Michaels: I know I feel threatened by these young studs.
Triple H: Maybe they're right. Maybe Randy and Edge do deserve more respect, Shawn.
Shawn Michaels: Maybe so. After all, they could make history next week: they could become first ever "WWE World Tag Team Champions."
Triple H: That's right. It would be a true milestone, and I don't know about you, but I'd like to be there, in the flesh, to see it play out.
Shawn Michaels: Oh, totally. I'm there. Count me in.
Triple: Kendrick & London vs. Rated RKO for the WWE World Tag Team Championship, with DX in the front row to watch history unfold live.
Shawn: And, hey; if you're not down with that, we get two words for ya...
The crowd responds on cue as Orton and Edge fume in response.
85%
Backstage
Intercontinental Champion Jeff Hardy is chatting with brother Matt.
Jeff Hardy: I couldn't believe Lita lost that retirement match, man.
Matt Hardy: Yeah. My heart is breaking.
Jeff: I bet.
Matt: But what about you? You and Chris Benoit at Armageddon for all the gold? Crazy.
Chavo and Vickie Guerrero stroll up and interject themselves into the discussion.
Chavo Guerrero: Yeah. Crazy, for sure.
Jeff: What's up, Chavo?
Chavo: Well, I just can't help but think that if justice had been done last night at Survivor Series, it would be me walking into Armageddon with the US Championship. It's supposed to be Jeff Hardy vs. Chavo Guerrero for the Unified Intercontinental and United States Championships on New Year's Eve.
Matt: You sure about that, Chavo? I saw Chris Benoit beat you fair and square in the middle of the ring last night. You tapped out. Remember?
Chavo: I tapped out. I'm man enough to admit that. But I just want to make it clear that my business with Chris Benoit is far from finished. Just ask my business manager.
The Hardys look at Vickie.
Vickie Guerrero: He's right.
Jeff: What's your point?
Chavo: Chris Benoit has picked up right where Rey Mysterio left off. They've both tried to prevent me from assuming my position as the new face of the Guerrero legacy in Sports-Entertainment. Chris Benoit is standing in my way. I'll take him in the ring any way I can get him. And so if I have to become Intercontinental Champion in order to get my hands on him again at Armageddon, that's exactly what I'll do.
Jeff: If you wanted a shot at the Intercontinental Championship, all you had to do was ask.
Vickie: We did.
Chavo: Yup. We did. We went straight to the top, as a matter of fact. I told Mr. McMahon how much I admired him for taking the bull by the horns -- for reasserting control of what is rightfully his: the WWE. Turns out he was pretty enthusiastic about the idea of my challenging you for that Intercontinental Championship -- right here, tonight on RAW.
Jeff: Sounds good to me.
Vickie: Oh, I hope so. Because that match...? It's next!
The Guerreros walk off, quite pleased with themselves, while Matt and Jeff look at each other and raise their eyebrows.
65%
Intercontinental Championship Match
Chavo Guerrero (with Vickie Guerrero) vs. Intercontinental Champion Jeff Hardy
Chavo goes on the offensive from before the opening bell, unloading on Hardy for a minute before tossing him over the top rope. Vickie looks on with approval as Chavo whips the Intercontinental Champion into the guardrail on the outside. Chavo is clearly willing to do whatever it takes to get another crack at Chris Benoit; the Intercontinental Championship is gravy. Back in the ring, Hardy blocks a suplex attempt and hits a neckbreaker. Hardy continues to sell the effects of the Ladder Match of the previous week as he favors his lower back. Indeed, his back gives out on him when he tries a slam on Chavo. Guerrero plants Jeff with a Brainbuster for a two count. Jeff escapes an attempted Belly to Back and hits Chavo with a Rydeen Bomb. He heads up top, looking for the Swanton. Vickie moves to confront Jeff, who warns her to back off. Chavo gets to his feet and moves to knock Hardy off the top rope, but Jeff takes to the air with a Sunset Flip that leads to the pinfall!
WINNER: Hardy by pinfall.
Chavo does not take the loss well. While Hardy holds up his Intercontinental Championship in the ring, Chavo ejects Lilian Garcia from her chair at ringside and brings it into the ring. Hardy takes a stiff chairshot to the back. Matt Hardy then hits the ring to bail his brother out, but he receives a chairshot of his own right on the skull. This brings Chavo's nemesis Chris Benoit sprinting to the ring. Chavo rushes at Benoit with the chair; Benoit ducks and catches Chavo in three rolling German Suplexes, drawing his rampage to an involuntary close. Benoit then helps Armageddon opponent Jeff and his brother Matt to their feet. Chavo and Vickie make their retreat in the meantime.
74/73/75
Non-Title Match
World Heavyweight Champion King Booker (with Queen Sharmell) vs. The Sandman
Queen Sharmell performs the "All Hail King Booker" refrain, reminding us during her introduction that King Booker is not only the World Heavyweight Champion, but also the Champion of Champions; he vanquished Batista last night and also humbled John Cena, as well. Sharmell's "All Hails" are brought to an end by the start of the entrance music of ECW original The Sandman, which scandalizes the King and Queen. The Sandman enters through the crowd with Kendo Stick in one hand and beers in the other. Booker and Sharmell are disgusted by the Sandman's binge drinking. Prior to the opening bell, the Sandman waves the Kendo Stick in the King's face; the King promptly registers an objection with referee Jack Doan. The World Champion is eventually forced to begin the match, although he does plenty of stalling in order to avoid an ECW-style brawl with his opponent. A few minutes in, Booker sends the Sandman flying over the top rope with a clothesline. The King pursues Sandman on the outside with the Kendo Stick, but when he swings, Sandman ducks and Booker connects only with the ringpost. Sandman grabs the Kendo Stick and prepares to nail Booker with it. Sharmell, though, grabs the implement. Sandman turns his attention to the Queen, allowing the King to grab him from behind and send him into the ringsteps. Back inside, the Sandman counters a BookEnd with an elbow. He sets up for a White Russian Legsweep but Booker is able to grab the ropes. The champion explodes with a Sidekick and follows up with an Ax Kick. This is enough to send Sandman down for the count. King Booker is declared the winner, and he and his royal wife both react as though he has slain a proverbial dragon. It's a significant victory headed into the Unification Match with WWE Champion John Cena at Armageddon.
WINNER: King Booker by pinfall.
78/81/73
In the Ring
Sharmell replaces the King's crown upon his head. After catching his breath, Booker addresses the crowd.
King Booker: It is truly an historic occasion. 'Tis a day to be remembered for all posterity, for tonight marks our first address to our newly-enlarged realm. No longer is our domain restricted to Smackdown! We now reign over all of the WWE. As Champion of Champions, we declare that a celebration is called for: a true, royal jubilee. Furthermore, we feel is only fitting that the date of the 26th of November live on as a day of perpetual remembrance. Let it be known here and now that--
The King's proclamation is cut off by the opening riff of the entrance music of John Cena. The WWE Champion appears at the entrance carrying his title over his shoulder and wearing a grin on his face. After a moment, he speaks.
John Cena: Well, well, well, Booker. It must be good to be king.
Booker (incensed): We do not recall agreeing to an audience with thee, John Cena.
Cena: It's true, your highness. I ain't got an appointment.
Booker: Your brazen interruption is most egregious.
Cena: Don't get your royal knickers in a twist, excellency. The only reason I'm out here is to let you know just how much I'm looking forward to our little joust at Armageddon. Two champions walk in; one champion walks out.
Booker: You do realize that victory will be mine, ruffian; do you not?
Cena: You're confident. That's a good. Kings're supposed to be.
Booker: You are boring us.
Cena: Oh, my bad. I'll wrap this up. I just want you to know that I can't wait to have my brush with greatness on New Year's Eve. And another thing. What happened last night? When you cost me my Survivor Series match to prove that you really are champion of champions? Don't worry about it. Because the thing is, I'm a laid back kinda guy. I don't get mad, King Booker. I just get even.
Booker and Sharmell exchange uncomfortable glances.
Booker: Dost thou mean to imply a threat to the person of the king?
Cena: Maybe so, King. Maybe so. And, you know, I could stand here and explain to you in further detail just exactly what I mean to do at Armageddon, but I don't know. Why tell you when I can just go ahead and show you?
Booker and Sharmell look puzzled. Cena, in an instant, charges to the ring. Sharmell escapes to the outside but Booker is unable to make it through the ropes in time. Cena whips Booker into the ropes and gives him a backdrop. Booker's crown flies off his head, landing on the mat. Booker charges at Cena and Cena slams him. Booker rolls to the outside and is tended to by the Queen. They look on in stunned horror as Cena stands at mid-ring, holding not only his WWE Championship but also picking up the King's crown and placing it on his own head! The royals are horrified by the sight, and JR and Lawler wonder if this is a harbinger of things to come on 12/31 on PPV! On that night, John Cena looks to become the first ever WWE World Champion headed into his New Year's Day match with K-Fed.
91%
King Booker gained overness.
Backstage
In their locker room, the Spirit Squad appears dejected coming off their loss at Survivor Series to Ric Flair and his team of legends. Kenny once again steps up in his leadership role.
Kenny: All right, guys; listen up. There's no denying that losing to Ric Flair and his brigade of washed up has-beens last night wasn't exactly a shining moment for the Spirit Squad.
Mikey: Shining moment? It was a disaster!
Mitch: An embarrassment!
Nicky: An outrage!
Kenny: I won't disagree with any of that. But, as Captain of the Squad, I feel it's my duty to make sure that we don't let one bad night lead to tension among us. Mikey, Mitch, Nicky: I want us all to come together and make sure that Johnny knows that we don't blame him for our defeat at Survivor Series.
Johnny: Me? Who thinks I'm to blame?!
Kenny: Nobody! That's what I'm trying to say, man. What happened with Arn Anderson at the end of the match happened. It's ancient history. As far as I'm concerned, it's forgotten.
Johnny: Forgotten?
Kenny: Completely
Johnny: Have you also managed to forget that it was you who took the final elimination in that match? That Ric Flair won that match because he was able to pin you?
Kenny: We're moving forward, guys. No regrets, no finger-pointing. All is forgiven, Johnny. Isn't it, guys?
Mikey, Mitch, and Nicky all speak up in agreement with Kenny, but this appears to be of little comfort to Johnny...
70%
Eight-Man Tag Team Match
Finlay & Mike Knox & Hardcore Holly & Umaga (with Armando Alejandro Estrada) vs. Sabu & CM Punk & Bobby Lashley & Rob Van Dam
The heels make separate entrances first, with Ross and Lawler stressing the fact that it was Umaga who eliminated WWE Champion John Cena in their Survivor Series match last night, therefore winning the match for Team Big Show. Knox enters without Kelly Kelly, likely a result of the recent strain on their relationship. The key question is whether the babyface team will be able to work together tonight knowing that it will be every man for himself in the Extreme Elimination Chamber in six days. Test takes Mr. McMahon up on his offer to join JR and Lawler for commentary during the match. Meanwhile, Big Show and Paul Heyman keep an eye on the proceedings via a monitor in the back. This is nothing less than a chaotic brawl with referee Mickey Henson facing an uphill struggle in his attempts to maintain some semblance of order. Knox targets Punk in particular. Lashley and Umaga duke it out; Umaga eliminated an otherwise impressive Lashley in last night's Survivor Series match. The war between Hardcore Holly and Rob Van Dam continues. They battle on the outside at one point, with RVD rocking Holly with a leg lariat up against the ringside barrier. Back in the ring, Lashley is double-teamed by Umaga and longtime foe Finlay. Umaga crashes over the top rope after Lashley ducks a flying body attack, leaving Finlay and Lashley to duke it out. Lashley is able to lift Finlay up for his running powerslam, but Little Bastard then crawls out from under the ring and grabs the ankles of Lashley. While Lashley is distracted trying to fend off Finlay and his rabid sidekick, Test slips into the ring with Finlay's sheleighly and blasts Lashley on the back of his head with it. Finlay goes to make the cover but Punk breaks up the pin attempt. Test registers his frustration at ringside and then walks right into an RVD chairshot. In the meantime, Kelly Kelly has appeared at the entrance, biting her nails as she follows the action. Punk's save brings a smile to her face. Knox notices at ringside and is sickened. The clustermess of a match culminates minutes later when Sabu is able to hit Hardcore Holly with a nasty Arabian Face Buster. While Sabu wastes time pointing to the sky in the aftermath of the successful maneuver, RVD (who is limping badly) takes to the air with a Five Star Frogsplash that connects with Holly. Referee Henson, clueless as to who the legal men in the match might be, throws up his hands and counts the three in Van Dam's favor. After the dust settles Sabu, Punk, Lashley, and Van Dam are able to assemble in the ring and raise each other's hands, but the tentative expressions on the extremists' faces convey that they know full well that there will be no such thing as alliances when they step into the Extreme Elimination Chamber on Sunday night. Backstage, Show clutches his Extreme World Title tightly while Heyman looks on.
WINNERS: RVD & Sabu & Punk & Lashley by pinfall.
71/67/76
Backstage
Theodore Long is chatting with some of his former Smackdown! talents such as Scotty 2 Hotty, Vito, and Layla when Eric Bischoff saunters up.
Eric Bischoff: Theodore! Tough break about the gig.
Theodore Long: What are you doing here, Bischoff?
Eric: Oh, Mr. McMahon was thoughtful enough to invite me here tonight as a spectator. He promised tonight would be book, and boy; did he deliver!
Theodore: Look, playa; let's stop playing games. I know you couldn't be more thrilled about the fact that I'm no longer a GM here in the WWE.
Eric: I never said that, Teddy! We may have had our differences in the past, but it gives me no pleasure to see you out of a job. Really.
Theodore: Oh, really? Because I've got to tell you that, personally, my favorite edition of RAW ever was the one that saw you end up in the back of a garbage truck after being fired for incompetence. That was a long time coming, Eric.
Eric: Look, Long. I've tried taking the high road, here, but you're making that close to impossible. My firing was a misunderstanding. I did good work for Vince McMahon. I-- I created controversy. I created cash. Because that's what I do best.
Theodore: You haven't created anybody any cash for a long time, playa. Everybody knows that.
Eric: I am so sick and tired of all of the revisionist history around here. Eric Bischoff is a Sports-Entertainment genius. And I've just about had it with nobodies like you tarnishing my legacy.
Theodore: If you're so upset about your "legacy," then why don't you do something about it, Bischoff?
Eric: Maybe I will. Maybe I will. And when I do, I can guarantee you -- all of you -- that you'll end up eating crow.
An intense Bischoff walks off while Long shakes his head.
84%
Theodore Long gained overness.
In the Ring: Carlito's Cabana
As host Carlito makes his way down to the ring, Ross and Lawler hype Friday's Smackdown!: will Batista resurface? Plus, Lita makes her final appearance following her Retirement Match at Survivor Series. And with Sunday's December to Dismember rapidly approaching with only one match announced, how will the card fill out? We should get some answers on Friday night. Carlito enters the ring, set up for the Cabana, and begins his interview segment.
Carlito: At Survivor Series last night, Mr. Kennedy beat The Undertaker. Mr. Kennedy beat The Undertaker in a First Blood Match. No, seriously; he did. You know, Survivor Series is a big deal for The Undertaker. It's where he made his debut. It's where he won his first WWE Championship. I mean, Undertaker beat Yokozuna in a Casket Match at Survivor Series. But last night he walked out a loser. He walked out a loser thanks to one man and one man only: his own brother, Kane; The Big Red Monster; whatever you wanna call him. Everybody knows that they had their problems in the past: Inferno matches, burning caskets, you name it. But they're the Brothers of Destruction, man! The most dominant tag team in Sports-Entertainment history. The most lethal brothers in the history of the WWE. Kane stabbed The Undertaker in the back last night, and everybody wants to know why. Carlito is here to get some answers, and so, Kane? I'm calling you out. Tell us why you did it. Why, Kane? Why?
Carlito looks to the entrance, awaiting Kane's response. But it is not Kane who makes his way to the ring but rather a raucous Mr. Kennedy. Carlito watches with annoyance while Kennedy enters the ring. Kennedy's microphone is lowered from the ceiling.
Mr. Kennedy: The regularly scheduled guest couldn't make it to Carlito's Cabana tonight, and so instead, viewers of RAW are receiving a rare treat, instead. They're getting... Misterrrrr Kennedy. (Pause). Kennedy!
As the house lighting returns to normal, Kennedy beams in the middle of the ring. Carlito addresses Kennedy.
Carlito: Has anyone ever told you that that... is not cool?
Kennedy: This, coming from a man who walks around with a Chia pet on top of his head? This, coming from a man who has never and will never even come close to the greatness of Mr. Kennedy? Carlito, as far as I'm concerned, all you need do from here on out on this Cabana is stand back and, like all of these people, listen to what I have to say. What I have to say is this: I told you so. I did. For weeks, I came out on Smackdown! and I vowed to spill the blood of the Undertaker. I claimed that Smackdown! -- that WWE -- is now my yard, and that the Undertaker had no place in it. And so what did I go and do? I went and annihilated the Undertaker, and I did it at Survivor Series. I shocked the world. Hell, I immortalized myself last night. Mr. Kennedy has arrived, and he's not going anywhere!
Carlito: Wait, wait, wait. You're forgetting one thing, Kennedy; you're forgetting Kane.
Kennedy: What does Kane have to do with any of this? And just why are you so determined to change the subject?
Carlito: I know just as well as all of these people do that the only reason you beat The Undertaker last night was Kane. You couldn't get the job done any other way.
Kennedy: Who the hell are you to doubt Mr. Kennedy? Who the hell are you to--
The chilling music of Kane cuts in and the arena lighting goes red. Kane steps out onto the entrance ramp, drawing universal boos. Carlito and Kennedy watch as he methodically steps down the ramp. The "immortal" Kennedy high-tails it out of the ring, while Carlito stands his ground. Kane does the ringpost pyro bit once he reaches the ring. Carlito then faces him.
Carlito: Are you here to explain yourself, Kane? Why'd you do it?
Carlito hands Kane a microphone. Kane takes a long pause. He looks out at the crowd, clearly caring little about their disapproval. Finally, he speaks.
Kane: Why? Why did I do it? (Laughs). I did it because I had to. I did it because I had no choice.
Carlito: You're... you're going to have to do better than that, Kane.
Kane: Better than that?
Carlito: That's right.
Kane: I can do better than that.
Kane suddenly grabs Carlito by the throat. Carlito is stunned but tries battling out of the chokehold. He is finally able to escape after a kick to the gut, but Kane then hits a Big Boot. He picks Carlito up and drops him with a Chokeslam. He then tosses him through a piece of the Cabana set in the corner of the ring. Kane summons the ringpost pyro a second time and poses demonically at the center of the ring. The show draws to an abrupt close as JR and Lawler are left to wonder just what Kane's remarks are supposed to mean! A wild night on RAW concludes.
75%
Kane lost overness.
Overall Rating: 78%
Television Rating: 6.04
ROB VAN DAM INJURED; OFF DECEMBER TO DISMEMBERWe can now confirm that Rob Van Dam's shaky finish to last night's 8-man tag was not worked but rather legitimate. Van Dam was taken to a Pittsburgh hospital following RAW last night and was informed that he did, indeed, tear his ACL. Early estimates are that he'll be out for 8-10 months of action. Van Dam will not be able to compete at Sunday's pay-per-view; his expected absence will likely be addressed on Friday's Smackdown!
The injury has to be considered a major blow to both Van Dam and December to Dismember. Van Dam just returned from a yearlong hiatus due to a knee injury this past January and is now again unable to compete until mid-summer 2007 at the earliest. Meanwhile, Van Dam's hunt for the ECW/Exteme World Championship was one of the few selling points December to Dismember had going for it just days before the event. There is no word yet on how WWE will attempt to compensate for Van Dam's absence from the now-extremely-weak card.
-
When Vince McMahon made the executive decision to "extend" the WWF brand name in 2001, he told the Pro Wrestling Torch that, "we can't have all [of our Superstars] on one show. It would be good in many ways to have Rock on Thursdays, but not on Mondays... [Within the parameters of the pre-split format] there is nothing compelling enough between Monday and Thursday. You can catch up on what you missed on Thursday if you don't watch on Monday. If we split the talent, then viewers would have to watch both shows just to see [all of their favorites]." At the time, the WWF's talent roster was arguably deeper than it had ever been before owing chiefly to the acquisitions of the WCW and ECW brands as well as the robustness of the promotion's developmental system under the auspices of then-VP of Talent Relations Jim Ross. The household names of the Attitude Era (such as Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock) could continue to drive business for the federation while also elevating a new crop of top stars (including Chris Jericho and Kurt Angle). All the while, Ohio Valley Wrestling would actively product yet another new generation of headliners (like Brock Lesnar and Sean O'Haire). In short, the World Wrestling Federation had the resources, momentum, and infrastructure necessary to reinvent the Sports-Entertainment wheel. The RAW/Smackdown! split would not only freshen up a product weakened by the disastrous Alliance angle, but also had the potential literally to double the company's revenue stream, and then some.
Six years later, World Wrestling Entertainment was in a far different position. Politics and ineptitude had combined with the inevitable end of the wrestling boom to create a sad state of affairs. Former mainstays along the lines of Austin and The Rock have distanced themselves from the product or even severed ties completely. The Jerichos and Angles who might otherwise have drawn for RAW and Smackdown! for years and years to come have faded from the WWE scene. Talents once considered "money in the bank" fizzled out by choice (eg Lesnar) or involuntarily (eg O'Haire). The failure of the WWE machine to create and maintain a viable roster of stars as well as the decision to extend the brand even further by halfheartedly reviving the ECW brand has led to creative and financial stagnation. The downward trend has been gradual but steady. Despite his undeniable savvy, McMahon has turned a blind eye to his company's very real issues for years: his daughter has maintained a firm control of the creative side of the business and his son-in-law has stubbornly held onto his position at the top of cards to the detriment of other talents and World Wrestling Entertainment in general. In short, WWE has failed to evolve.
In November 2006, it all finally bottomed out for WWE. Six years worth of narcissism and shortsightedness culminated with the Cyber Sunday pay-per-view. The show was headlined by a lackluster main event pitting the champions of the promotion's three brands against each other to determine the "Champion of Champions." When the brand split was initially conceived around November 2001, one of the aims of the move had been to create the potential for "cross-promotional" dream matches between the "competing" RAW and Smackdown! brands. But the "Champion of Champions" match at Cyber Sunday between John Cena, King Booker, and The Big Show had hardly captured fans' imaginations. The undercard of the event was just as disappointing: the ever-aging Degeneration-X continued to big-foot talents who are in what should be the primes of their careers; the plodding megapush of a retread Samoan monster character continued; the crowd went mild for a 4-way Texas Tornado match between the four teams that comprised RAW's dying tag team division; career midcarders Jeff Hardy and Carlito had another meaningless match for the equally meaningless Intercontinental Championship; the endless parade of nondescript divas was trotted out yet again; and Ric Flair and Roddy Piper -- at a combined age of 109 -- defeated two male cheerleaders to capture their World Tag Team Titles. WWE had produced innumerable events as limp as this one during the course of its five year downward spiral, but what ultimately set this one apart was that it would prove to be the straw that broke the camel's back. WWE had over-saturated the pay-per-view market. Mixed martial arts shows were doing record-breaking numbers, while sales for WWE events were dipping to dangerous lows. When McMahon was faced with early buyrate estimates for Cyber Sunday, it was clear: he could no longer afford to live in blissful ignorance.
It was time to reinvent the wheel once again. In 2001, he resolved in the Torch "to get back to things that make sense." In 2001, what made sense was to exploit the fact that the WWF was bursting at the seams with both bankable and future stars. What made sense was to extend the brands. In 2006, the roster had been decimated by attrition, bad booking, and overexposure. RAW, Smackdown!, ECW: World Wrestling Entertainment was simply spread too thin. The brand had been "extended" beyond its limit; now, it was time to consolidate. It was time to for a "brand contraction": for a reunification. A new day was to dawn at the Survivor Series pay-per-view on November 26th.
Traditional Survivor Series Elimination MatchTeam Big Show def. Team Cena
Big Show eliminates Rob Van Dam; Kane eliminates MVP; Test eliminates Sabu; Bobby Lashley eliminates Finlay; Lashley eliminates Test; Umaga eliminates Lashley; Big Show eliminates Kane; Cena eliminates Big Show; Umaga eliminates Cena with the assistance of "Champion of Champions" King Booker.
WWE United States Title Match
Chris Benoit © def. Chavo Guerrero
Chavo again goes after the knee of Benoit with a steel chair, but the Rabid Wolverine battles back and forces Guerrero to submit to the Crippler Crossface.
Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
Team Legends def. Team Spirit Squad
Kenny eliminates Sgt. Slaughter; Johnny eliminates Ron Simmons; Dusty Rhodes eliminates Nicky; Ric Flair eliminates Mikey; Johnny eliminates Dusty Rhodes; Ric Flair eliminates Johnny; Ric Flair eliminates Kenny when Arn Anderson foils the attempted interference of Johnny.
Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
Team Rated RKO def. Team DX
Matt Hardy eliminates Gregory Helms; Johnny Nitro eliminates Matt Hardy; Johnny Nitro eliminates Jeff Hardy; CM Punk eliminates Mike Knox; Randy Orton eliminates CM Punk; Shawn Michaels eliminates Johnny Nitro; Edge eliminates Shawn Michaels; Triple H eliminates Randy Orton; Edge eliminates Triple H after clocking him with a World Tag Team Title belt.
First Blood Match
Mr. Kennedy def. The Undertaker
The Undertaker wastes no time in seeking his revenge against Kennedy for his recent sneak attacks. But Kennedy has an ace up his sleeve: on-again, off-again ally MVP, who tries turning the tide in Kennedy's favor. MVP and Kennedy double-team the Phenom while referee Charles Robinson is out cold. Kane, though, comes to his brother's rescue, hitting the ring and chokeslamming MVP straight to hell. Kennedy bails while Kane helps The Undertaker to his feet -- only to lift him up and deliver a devastating Tombstone at mid-ring! Kane stalks to the back. While the audience is left to try and determine why the Big Red Machine has stabbed his brother in the back, Kennedy uses his trusty microphone to draw blood from the forehead of the Undertaker. Robinson comes to and declares Kennedy the winner of the brutal match!
WWE Women's Title; Lita's Retirement Match
Mickie James def. Lita ©
Lita works James over methodically during the match, even dropping her with a Brainbuster at one point. An overconfident Lita breaks up many of her own pin attempts, and this ends up costing her. Mickie rallies around the six-minute mark, and defeats Lita for the title in humiliating fashion with the Litacanrana! Lita walks away from her retirement match in tears.
World Heavyweight Title Match
King Booker © def. Batista
This would be Batista's last and final shot at wresting the gold from the waist of the King. Soon after countering a BookEnd, Batista drops Booker with a Spinebuster and sets up for the Batista Bomb. Queen Sharmell hits the ring and nails Batista with a low blow. Referee Nick Patrick allows the match to continue, but orders Sharmell to the back, leaving both her and her husband in disbelief. Later, Booker brings in his scepter to use as a shortcut in putting the Animal away, but Batista outpowers him for the weapon and proceeds to break it in two and throw it from the ring. Still, Booker is able to kick out following a power slam. Minutes later, the champion hits his Scissors Kick. He then ventures outside the margins of his traditional playbook by locking Batista in the Sharpshooter, of all moves! Patrick stays alert for a possible submission by the challenger, but Batista refuses to give in. Just then, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon walks to the ring with purpose. McMahon watches from ringside as Booker continues to apply the full pressure of the submission hold. Color commentator JBL observes that he is experiencing deja vu. As if on cue, McMahon looks to timekeeper Mark Yeaton and issues the chilling order: "Ring the damn bell!" Yeaton obeys, and ring announcer Tony Chimmel declares King Booker the winner of the match! Confused, Patrick hands the title belt back over to a jubilant Booker while Batista stands at mid-ring at a complete loss for words. The Animal directs his piercing gaze at a red-faced, clenched-jawed McMahon. The Chairman takes the microphone from Chimmel. "I know what you're asking yourselves," he says. "Why? Why did Vince screw Dave? I'll tell you why. I'll tell you precisely why -- tomorrow night, live on RAW." Survivor Series concludes on this, a stunning note.
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Bret's explanation was perfect. I also liked him putting over the importance of the belt. That rang true. At first I thought you went forward with Bret vs. Savage too soon, but WCW in 1998 was hotshotting potential money matches left and right, so it worked. Typical ending to the show, too.
Nash was his usual self, trying to get himself over at everyone else's expense. I laughed, though, at the thought of Nash/Konnan and Steiner/Buff producing "A+" matches.
I do hope this was the Prince's last chance.
The no contest ending to Benoit vs. Booker was the right thing to do. That feud needs to be stretched out as long as possible. As was the case during the real-life Best of Seven, there's no clear-cut babyface in the situation and I think that works well for these two.
I prefer a somewhat campy Kanyon to the Man on Mission type character WCW tried at this time, but I'm open to seeing whether you can make it work.
The inclusion of Van Hammer vs. Barbarian was eerily true-to-life.
The hype for Flair's return is great. He hasn't been gone quite long enough for this to pop the rating the September return actually did, but the intrigue is still there, particularly given the use of the "IV."
Nice to see Muta/Chono AND Bulldog/Neidhart actually pushed. I marked for both teams at the time and didn't understand why they were so marginalized.
Keep the Eddy/Chavo stuff coming. I loved that. They could really have had something with Pepe, IMO.
Refreshing that you're keeping Konnan with nWo Hollywood. His recent work in TNA has convinced me that he IS better suited to work as a heel.
I swear I saw that Goldberg-Reese match on an actual Nitro, LOL. Tagging Goldberg with DDP is a good move and should take him to that next level. I'd hate to see Raven & Saturn serve as Goldberg & DDP's designated jobbers, though. Both Raven and Saturn were really on their way to getting over at the time, so I'm looking forward to where they go over the summer.
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Rey over Orton and Angle. Now is the time to capitalize on Rey's popularity.
Henry over Undertaker. Should help build legitimacy for Sexual Chocolate. Building to a Mysterio/Henry David/Goliath WrestleMania main event could work.
Benoit over Booker. Time for the blow-off of this feud.
Lashley over JBL. Lashley needs the victory.
MNM over The Mexicools. Nothing to be gained by beating MNM here, but it should be a good match.
Finlay over Matt Hardy. Poor Matt. Finlay's the one worth investing in, at least in the immediate future.
Helms wins the 4-way. He's the only one strong enough to build the division around at present.
Regal & Burchill over London & Kendrick. Regal & Burchill should get the win after looking somewhat weak on Smackdown. Both teams are worth pushing as legit tag title contenders, though.
Bonus questions:
-Benoit reclaims the US Title.
-Rey vs. Henry @ 'Mania.
-Orton vs. Angle vs. Rey for the best EWR rating.
-
Wrestling Spectator Notes for 6/01/01
*RAW relied once more on hype surrounding The Rock and Stone Cold to draw its usual 6.8 rating. Although management is pleased by the recent numbers the show has been drawing, there is some concern that the WWF is being too complacent at the moment in that they are not building up the next Rock and Stone Cold-type draws. With Rock heading off to Hollywood for at least a few months and Austin's full-time in-ring days in question, there is significant pressure to generate new opponents for Triple H and The Undertaker for the Fall and Winter.
*Nitro climbed .2 to a 5.5 coming off of the previous Sunday's PPV. Ric Flair continues to be a ratings draw.
This week's house show results:
•WWF
- Goldust d. William Regal (w/Terri)
- Kevin Fertig d. Al Snow
- Haku d. Crash in a comedy match
- The Dudleys d. Goodfather & Buchanan
- Chyna d. Tori
- Raven d. Eddie Guerrero
- Edge & Christian d. Kings of the World
- Kane d. Triple H when Undertaker foiled Shawn Michaels's attempt at interference.
Crowds were said to be disappointed by the lack of Rock.
•WCW
- The Hardy Boyz (w/Lita) d. Kidman & Mysterio
- Lance Storm (w/Dawn Marie & Justin Credible) d. Mike Awesome
- Juventud Guerrera & Psicosis d. Joey Matthews & Christian York
- Rob Van Dam d. Jeff Jarrett in a Bunkhouse Brawl
- Chris Kanyon d. Norman Smiley
- Ken Shamrock d. Bam Bam Bigelow by DQ when Big Poppa Pump interfered
- Kurt Angle d. Bill Demott
- Booker T & Goldberg d. Ric Flair & Shawn Stasiak
The Hogan/Bischoff group has trademarked the name "Universal World Wrestling" and the initials "UWW." Bischoff did an interview with IGN earlier this week and would only confirm that several names have signed ironclad contracts with the UWW, and that the spectrum of talent involved "ranges from future stars such as Kid Kash to hardcore legends such as Balls Mahoney to brand names along the lines of Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage." The official UWW website is set to launch next week and should reveal more about the roster that has been assembled thusfar. As reported last week, TV tapings are slated to begin in July, with the FOX debut coming in August.
For what it's worth: Vince Russo is telling friends that he, too (along with lackey Jeremy Borash) are in the early stages of organizing a startup of their own.
Goldberg has ruffled some feathers both backstage and in the front office as a result of his appearance on yesterday's Howard Stern show. In addition to expressing reservations about some of the WWF's more risque creative decisions, Goldberg also alluded to the fact that Triple H's relationship with Stephanie McMahon may go a long way in explaining his push. Regardless of the frustrations with Goldberg's attitude, he continues to be positioned as one of WCW's top stars.
Chyna will be taking several weeks off at some point in the near future. Although the official line is that Chyna will be resting up and shooting an episode of Friends, many within the company believe that the stress of her breakup with Triple H and Triple H's subsequent (or concurrent...) hookup with Stephanie McMahon may have led her to request -- or to have been mandated -- some time off. No word on what this means for the Women's Championship.
Notes on talent used on Nitro: Bobby Eaton has been working for WWFE as a trainer in OVW. Because of his history with the WCW brand, the plan is to use him on air from time to time as an enhancement talent to lend WWFE's WCW some old-school legitimacy. La Parka is not under contract to WWFE but was brought in because he is a familiar face from WCW's past and was readily available, being based in Mexico (Nitro was taped this week in Austin, TX, so it was perfectly feasible to fly La Parka in for the taping). He may be brought back for similar appearances in the future. A bio for La Parka has been added to WCW.com, although Eaton does NOT appear on the WCW Stars page, perhaps owing to his status as a part-time enhancement worker.
Gregory Helms was backstage at this week's Nitro taping.
Next week's Nitro has Booker T vs. Kanyon again for the US Title; The Impact Players & a partner vs. NC-17 & Mike Awesome; and the debut of whomever is being advertised in the current "He's Back" vignettes.
On the RAW side, Chyna defends the Women's Title against Molly Holly with Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley serving as Guest Referee. Commissioner Regal has "important news" about the King of the Ring tournament, which continues with Round 2: Rhyno vs. Steve Blackman; Perry Saturn vs. Test (w/Mr. Perfect); Christian vs. Goldust; and Scotty 2 Hotty vs. Billy Gunn. Tazz is also pencilled in for a "major announcement" on the show.
Notes from this week's Ross Report:
- Mick Foley and Chris Jericho have both inked new, three-year deals with WWFE. Perry Saturn and Lance Storm are also both in the process of finalizing new long-term contract extensions, as well.
- JR hopes that Jerry "The Wall" Tuite picks up the pace in OVW. He says he has a significant upside but needs to start making faster strides. In the same breath, Ross praised the work of The Prototype (John Cena).
- Mark Jindrak, Joey Matthews, and Christian York have all been called up from OVW. Jindrak may not necessarily land back in WCW, although cruiserweights Matthews and York are likely headed to that brand.
Off-air happenings from RAW:
Darkmatch: Mark Jindrak def. Brooklyn Brawler.HeAT tapings:
•Buchanan & Goodfather (w/Ivory) def. Michael Shane & Scoot Andrews.
•Crash comes out and issues an open challenge; he'll defend his Lightheavyweight Title against anyone. Danny Doring , perhaps receiving a tryout, responds and is pinned following the Bulldog.
•Jacqueline def. Brandi Alexander.
•Goldust def. Michael Modest.
After RAW went off the air, Rock beat Stone Cold in a quick, impromptu match.
-
WCW Nitro
Thursday, 5/31/01
Hosted by Joey Styles & Mike Tenay & Jerry Lawler
from Austin, TX
- Still pictures from last Sunday's Goldberg vs. Booker T match are shown.
- Backstage, WCW United States Champion Booker T arrives at the arena. Booker is approached by Scott Hudson, who asks Booker T what is next for him after having dropped the World Title to Goldberg the Sunday before. Booker makes it clear that he has nothing but respect for Goldberg after Sunday, but is also quick to point out that he has a rematch coming to him and intends to take advantage of it. This prompts an interjection by Ric Flair, who tells Booker to get in line; Flair says he wants Goldberg for the title and should get the next crack at the gold. Head of the Executive Committee Dusty Rhodes then makes his presence felt, and when he arrives on the scene, Flair immediately goes on guard. Dusty reminds Flair that he no longer calls the shots around here. He damn sure doesn't call the shots in Austin, Texas! Flair retorts that he thought he'd warned Rhodes sufficiently about making an enemy of the Nature Boy again. The American Dream makes it clear that he's not there to make enemies or open old wounds; he's there to run the company fairly. With that in mind, he books Flair and Booker T in a singles match for later on, with the winner earning the right to challenge Goldberg for the World Heavyweight Title anytime, anyplace!
- The normal Nitro opener airs, followed by pyro and the kick-off from Styles, Tenay, and Lawler.
- Match One: Juventud Guerrera vs. Jeff Hardy
As Hardy makes his entrance, the announcers put over the efforts of both the Hardy Boyz and Kai En Tai in last Sunday's three-way Cruiserweight Tag Team Title match -- a match during which Mysterio & Kidman showed their true colors. Jeff has another formidable challenge ahead of him tonight in Juvi. The historic encounter between two of the contemporary scene's hottest cruiserweights kicks Nitro off on a high note. Juventud drops Jeff from the top turnbuckle with a Frankensteiner. He then sets up for the 450 Splash, but Jeff gets his knees up to produce a devastating counter. Juventud rolls to the outside and falls victim to a Hardy suicide plancha. Minutes later, Hardy hits the Swanton Bomb and then the Twist of Fate to pick up the big win. Post-match, the cameras pick up Hardy sending a message to Kidman and Mysterio as he celebrates his win: "We're not through just yet," Hardy nods.
• Winner: Jeff Hardy by pinfall (85/76/88)
[Commercial Break]- Backstage, Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions Billy Kidman and Rey Mysterio, Jr. are preparing themselves cups of coffee when Kidman's girlfriend Torrie Wilson joins the duo. Torrie notes that the rumors are true: The Hardy Boyz and Lita really are upset about the way Kidman and Mysterio went about retaining their titles last Sunday. Kidman questions Torrie's tone, and Torrie admits that she can understand why Team Xtreme might be angry. "Life's unfair," Mysterio shrugs. "They'll get over it," he says. Kidman and Mysterio sip their coffee, leaving Torrie surprised by their new, not-exactly-improved attitude.
- WCW's own Olympic Hero makes his presence felt in Austin as a triumphant Kurt Angle makes his way to ringside. While he is en route, still pictures are shown of his victory over Sting at the Clash; Sting did not submit but was rather deemed unable to continue in the match by referee Mickey Jay. In the center of the ring, after a pause, Angle lets the fans know he doesn't appreciate their taunts and chants, and particularly not after having proved himself the way he did on the PPV. For years, he says, "Sting" has been synonymous with "WCW." He has been the Franchise -- the face of the company. But at the Clash, push came to shove and Sting faced the most daunting challenge of his career: that which was posed by an Olympic Gold Medalist. Sting wasn't up for the challenge. Sting crumbled. Angle says there is no question: he (Kurt Angle) is the better man, and he is the new face of World Championship Wrestling. It's true; it's damn true. How fitting it is, he reflects, that the Stinger was ousted at such a long-standing, traditional event as the Clash of the Champions. After being heavily booed, Angle chastises the fans for their jealousy of him and his lifestyle (at the center of which are the three "I"s). While he continues ranting, Hugh Morrus appears at the entrance and walks down to the ring with purpose. Angle is puzzled as Morrus climbs the ringsteps and enters the ring. Angle raises his mic. "And just who the hell are you?" Angle asks. Morrus points out that he, like so many of the other boys in the back, is just a poor jabronie who's been up and down the road with WCW for years and years. He couldn't help but hear what Kurt Angle had to say. Morrus says he's not out there in the ring on Nitro as a former member of the Dungeon of Doom or as the former General Rection; he's out there as Bill Demott: a man who is absolutely sickened. Sickened, because if Kurt Angle is the new face of WCW, then Shane McMahon might as well have pulled the plug. Demott acknowledges that Angle bested Sting at the PPV. But he didn't do it like a man, just as what he did to Lash Leroux (the former Cpl. Cajun and a good friend of Demott's) was as low as it gets. In short, Bill Demott has a problem with Kurt Angle, and he wants to address that problem tonight. Angle retorts that he has news for Demott: fat, out of shape, mediocre performers like Demott are now a dying breed in WCW, and if it's what Demott wants, Kurt Angle would be more than happy to hasten his extinction. Demott counters that he plans to give Kurt Angle a welcome he'll never forget!
[Commercial Break]- Match Two: Rob Van Dam vs. Disqo
RVD's WCW pay-per-view record is now one for one, and Mr. Thursday Night exudes confidence tonight on Nitro. Disqo, meanwhile, is not quite so upbeat; he lost to The Bull on Sunday's shockwave pre-game show. Still, once the match gets underway and RVD dizzies his opponent early with a series of kicks, Disqo gets it in gear. At one point, Disqo drops RVD with a stuff piledriver and then connects with the elbowsmash from the middle rope. Disqo scores a series of two-counts, but RVD stages a spontaneous comeback. As Disqo prepares to hit RVD with a neckbreaker, RVD comes out of nowhere with a spinning heel kick. RVD squashes Disqo with Rolling Thunder and then the Five Star Frogsplash to pick up the victory.
• Winner: Rob Van Dam by pinfall (76/74/82)
Just as referee Billy Silverman raises RVD's arm in victory, Jeff Jarrett slides into the ring from out of nowhere and smashes his trusty guitar over an unsuspecting Van Dam's back! RVD collapses on the mat. An angry Jarrett then demands a microphone and addresses his unconscious foe, stating that he hopes Van Dam enjoyed the victory while it lasted. Jarrett clarifies that nothing has changed: he is still the Chosen One, and no one -- certainly not RVD -- is going to come into WCW now and take his spot. Jarrett instructs Van Dam to stay out of his way in future, or else he runs the risk of really pissing him off. The sour Jarrett storms out amidst a chorus of boos. Meanwhile, Silverman helps Disqo to his feet outside the ring, but a disappointed Disqo doesn't appreciate the help and shoves the referee to the mat. Disqo storms to the back. Van Dam continues to lie limp at midring.
[Commercial Break]- Scott Hudson brings "The Beast From the East" Bam Bam Bigelow out onto the stage. Hudson recaps what happened last Sunday on the PPV: in a horrible accident, Diamond Dallas Page injured his own wife Kimberly with a shot intended for Page's opponent, Mike Sanders. Hudson reminds us that Bigelow is a close, personal friend of the Page family (despite Sanders's best efforts a few weeks ago) and turns to Bigelow for an update on Kimberly's condition, as well as DDP's state of mind. Bigelow repeats that what happened to Kimberly was a freak occurrence; it shouldn't have happened, and it wouldn't have had Sanders wrestled a clean match. Bigelow notes that DDP and Kimberly have taken great strides in repairing the rift in their marriage over the past year; he is confident that Page's miscalculation on Sunday will not compromise all of that progress. Nevertheless, Kimberly was badly shaken by what happened, and DDP is beside himself. Suddenly, the music of the former Commissioner begins, and Mike Sanders joins Bigelow and Hudson on the ramp. "Boo hoo," Sanders says, grabbing the mic. Sanders refuses to accept the blame for what was clearly DDP's fault. He says he has all the sympathy in the world for Kimberly, both because of what happened at the Clash and because she's bound in matrimony to a washed-up has-been like Diamond Dallas Page. But Sanders maintains that some good has come of what happened at the Clash: DDP has seemingly gone away, at long last. Sanders pleads with Page to do them all a favor: "You went away, DDP. Stay there." Bigelow, offended by Sanders's remarks, moves to teach him a physical lesson, but security steps in to prevent a brawl. An arrogant Sanders smiles while Bigelow is dragged to the back in order to keep the peace.
[Commercial Break]- Match Three: Anything Goes Match - Mike Awesome vs. La Parka
Awesome, looking to prove that he hadn't lost a step since his unceremonious split with former tag team partner Lance Storm, had issued an open challenge for an Anything Goes match on Nitro. The "Chair Man" of WCW was the first to take Awesome up on the offer. Awesome and Parka's styles are not exactly complimentary; Awesome uses his power advantage to inflict significant damage on Parka, who fires back with his own brand of technical and aerial offense, hitting Awesome with a Corkscrew Plancha at one point. Parka's chair does, of course, come into play; he aims at Awesome in the corner, but Awesome ducks and La Parka's chairshot connects with the turnbuckle only. Awesome picks up the chair and clumsy La Parka charges into it head first. Awesome then sets the chair up at mid-ring and Awesomebombs the luchadore right on top of it. Awesome scores the pinfall, drawing the impressing showing to a close.
• Winner: Mike Awesome by pinfall (70/68/71)
[Commercial Break]- Match Four: "Beautiful" Bobby Eaton vs. Chris Kanyon
Kanyon rebounds from his pay-per-view loss with a convincing victory over the seasoned veteran here. Tag team specialist Eaton throws a good deal of offense in Kanyon's direction, even attempting (and failing to connect with) the Alabama Jam from the top rope at one point. The Innovator of Offense largely maintains control, however. After drilling Eaton with an Electric Chair in the middle of the ring, Kanyon waits for Eaton to pull himself back up to a vertical base. Kanyon then immediately catches Eaton with the Flatliner to pick up the win.
• Winner: Chris Kanyon by pinfall (72/70/78)
[Commercial Break]- Scott Hudson joins Kanyon on the stage as Kanyon catches his breath following his match. Hudson asks Kanyon for his thoughts coming off of the Clash of the Champions. Kanyon says that what sets him apart from all of the people in the crowd is that he can't be fooled by a guy like Booker T. The only reason Booker T has enjoyed a run at the top is that he stumbled upon a string of good luck. Booker T isn't better than Kanyon; nobody's better than Kanyon. Kanyon declares that he shouldn't have lost the match on Sunday. Booker, having heard enough, makes his way out into the arena from backstage. Booker tells Kanyon that, where he comes from, actions speak louder than words. Booker T says he knows what it's like to want one more crack at the gold; that's why he's wrestling Ric Flair tonight. Booker says he's never been anything other than a fighting champion, and that if it's a rematch Kanyon wants, he's got it -- next week on Nitro: Booker T vs. Kanyon one more time for the US Heavyweight Title. Kanyon nods enthusiastically in response to the suggestion. "You have no idea what you just signed on for," Kanyon says, salivating. Booker T counters that he actually has a pretty good idea. "Don't hate the Playa," he concludes. "Hate the game!"
- Still pictures of Ken Shamrock's shocking arrival in WCW four days ago are shown.
- Ken Shamrock makes a full ring entrance. In the ring, Shamrock admits that he didn't expect to be working for a McMahon ever again. He'd resolved to finish his career where he'd started it: inside the octagon. But he notes that he's proven himself time and time again in the mixed martial arts arena. As far as wrestling goes, though, he'd only just gotten started. And he's followed the business closely over the past few years and has heard every reference Scott Steiner has made to being the "big bad booty daddy" -- the most dangerous man in the business. But Shamrock says there's a difference between being a legit tough guy and being a punk, and as far as he's concerned, Big Poppa Pump is the latter. Shamrock says there's a reason he's called the World's Most Dangerous Man, and it's not because he's beats up on women and 150 pound referees. He humiliated Scott Steiner so thoroughly last Sunday that Steiner had to resort to taking out his anger on Charles Robinson, of all people. Shamrock says that if Steiner has some aggression to unleash, he should try unleashing it on him; he's more than willing to go one more round with Scott Steiner. As a matter of fact, he insists upon going one more round. Shamrock orders Steiner to bring his ass to the ring -- with or without Stacy Keibler. Shamrock throws down the mic and waits for his opponent, but Steiner never materializes! When will we see the two most volatile individuals in WCW lock horns once more?
[Commercial Break]- Backstage, Ken Shamrock heads back to his dressing room while promising WCW cameras that he's not through proving his point with Steiner. Suddenly, out of nowhere, Big Poppa Pump nails Shamrock from behind with a double forearm shot. Steiner grabs Shamrock and slams him headfirst into the concrete wall of the backstage area. An uncontrollable Steiner pounds away on Shamrock. Steiner is apparently completely unashamed of the cowardly way in which he attacked Shamrock. Medics tend to WCW's newest star while Stacy Keibler drags her man away from a confrontation with building security.
- Match Five: The Impact Players (Lance Storm and Justin Credible) (with Dawn Marie) vs. Kai En Tai (TAKA and Funaki)
This match exemplifies the diversified nature of WCW's tag team division. Both teams, rebounding from losses at the PPV, have something to prove here. There is tension even before the bell between the three Impact Players and referee Billy Silverman; Silverman had called the World Tag Team Title match four days before and infuriated the Players by sending conniving Dawn Marie to the back after she'd interfered on multiple occasions. Kai En Tai play the faces here, getting the better of the Players at several points in the match due to their quickness. The breaking point comes when TAKA dares to score a nearfall on Justin Credible with a Mahistral Cradle. A frustrated Credible proceeds to bring in his singapore cane and crack TAKA over the skull with it. Silverman promptly disqualifies Storm and Credible.
• Winners: Kai En Tai by disqualification (75/72/85)
Dawn Marie refuses to accept the decision and gives Silverman a mouthful in the ring. Storm and Credible turn their attention to a revenge attack on Kai En Tai. World Tag Team Champions NC-17 (Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire) then hit the ring to make the save. Palumbo and O'Haire aren't the only ones with unresolved issues with the Playaz; Mike Awesome sprints down as well and joins Palumbo and O'Haire in knocking Storm and Credible silly with rights and lefts. Finally, Storm and Credible bail and make a quick retreat to the back with Dawn. The Impact Players have made more than an impact since their reformation in WCW; they've made enemies, too!
[Commercial Break]- Back from break, Joey Styles announces that Dusty Rhodes has ordered a six-man tag team match for next week's Nitro: Tag champs NC-17 will team up with former foe Mike Awesome to battle the Impact Players and a partner of their choice!
- Earlier Tonight:
Bill Demott has a problem with Kurt Angle, and he wants to address that problem tonight. Angle retorts that he has news for Demott: fat, out of shape, mediocre performers like Demott are now a dying breed in WCW, and if it's what Demott wants, Kurt Angle would be more than happy to hasten his extinction. -
Monday, 05/28/01
Mobile, AL
Hosted by Jim Ross & Paul Heyman
Looking for an Answer
RAW kicked off with Brothers of Destruction The Undertaker and Kane scouring the backstage area for the Coalition's Shawn Michaels and Triple H. Last week, the Brothers had issued a challenge to the conniving HBK and Game: they wanted Michaels and HHH in the ring in a tag team match once and for all after Michaels faked a back re-injury and cost Kane the Hardcore Championship on RAW. Undertaker and Kane's targets, though, were nowhere in sight. Later, a gutsy Mr. McMahon accosted the brothers backstage and let them know that Shawn Michaels and Triple H weren't even at RAW, but were instead back at the hotel taking a well-deserved night off. Determined to pin down the duo for the King of the Ring tag match, Undertaker planned to go to the hotel to confront Michaels and Helmsley, while Kane remained at the arena for his match with Eddie Guerrero.
European Champion Latino Heat tried convincing Dean Malenko and Perry Saturn that Raven had manipulated them last week into believing that Eddie was exploiting Malenko and Saturn's friendship for personal gain. Both Malenko and Saturn remained skeptical of Guerrero. Eddie told Michael Cole he wanted a match with Raven, vowing to take Raven's pride, dignity, and championship belt from him in revenge for sending the Radicalz into disarray. Cole noted that Eddie would have to go through Kane first in order to earn the right to challenge the holder of the belt previously held by the Big Red Machine. Eddie was confident he could cut Kane down to size.
Hardcore Match
Eddie Guerrero vs. Kane
Eddie launched an aggressive attack early on, whacking Kane repeatedly with a chair and finally driving it into Kane's face after diving into the floor from the top turnbuckle. Kane turned the tide by reversing an Irish Whip, and Eddie was knocked senseless by a collision with the ring post. Kane punished Eddie on the outside. After a vertical suplex by Kane on the outside, Eddie got on his knees and begged Kane for mercy. Kane wouldn't fall for that trick, but when Kane went to pick Eddie up, Eddie went to the eyes and then took Kane off his feet with a dropkick to the knees. Kane was still able to block another chairshot, and he Chokeslammed Eddie on the outside! Kane tossed Eddie over the top rope into the ring. Kane sent Eddie into the ropes: Big Boot! Kane signalled that it was over, and set Eddie up for a Tombstone. It was then that Shawn Michaels and Triple H hit the ring from the crowd and surprised Kane from behind. They charged at Kane, who had the presence of mind to throw a double clothesline. With Eddie's help, though, the Coalition members soon got the best of the Big Red Machine, beating him down with the afformentioned chair. Undertaker had, of course, been sent on a wild goose chase and was not at the arena to make the save this week. With the Coalition members looking on, Eddie hit the lifeless Kane with a Frogsplash, and referee Earl Hebner had no choice but to count the three in the anything-goes match. HBK and The Game then stomped a mudhole in Kane, but made a point not to address the Brothers of Destruction's tag team challenge! JR denounced HBK as a coward, adding that Triple H was just as shameless. JR said he was just as eager as Undertaker and Kane to see HBK forced to face the music at King of the Ring. But with the Coalition on top of the World Wrestling Federation, could that ever come to pass?!
Later, Raven appeared from a darkened room in the bowels of the arena known as "The Sanctuary" to address Latino Heat. Raven explained to Guerrero that he had "sealed his own fate" by choosing to make an enemy of Raven. The Noxious Nonconformist noted that Eddie had not earned the right to challenge Raven for the Hardcore Championship, but Raven said he was a munificent soul and would grant Eddie a shot at the title out of generosity. At King of the Ring, it would be Raven vs. Eddi, Hardcore-style for the Hardcore Championship. The catch was that Eddie would have to face Raven in two matches on the pay-per-view: one in which Raven's Hardcore Championship would be on the line, and one in which Eddie's European Championship would be on the line! Raven told Eddie to think of him as a collector. He had already robbed Latino Heat of his closest allies; now, he would rob him of his championship gold. Quote the Raven, "Nevermore!"
Second Best
Right to Censor joined WWF Champion Stone Cold last week in delivering a heinous beatdown to The Rock. In the days following, The Rock issued a challenge to RTC director Steven Richards to face him one-on-one live this week on RAW -- in a verbal debate over their philosophical differences! Stone Cold paid a visit to RTC headquarters backstage to talk strategy with Steven Richards, Ivory, Val Venis, Buchanan, and The Goodfather. Richards assured Austin that he would do to Rock what Austin would also do to the Great One when they faced off in a Falls Count Anywhere, Championship match at King of the Ring: he would cream him. Richards asserted that Rock's corrupt, sordid vitriol did not belong on RAW, and that he would convince the world of just that later on in the evening.
The debate did not go as the RTC had planned. Richards, accompanied by his cohort, couldn't get a word in edgewise! The Rock established from the start that it didn't matter what Steven Richards thought! Rock proceeded verbally to trash each of the RTC members -- as only Rock could. He then moved onto Stone Cold, arguing that the hard truth behind Stone Cold's WrestleMania betrayal and alliance with Mr. McMahon is all based on the fact that Austin came to the realization that he will forever be second best to The Rock! Richards interjected that he refused to allow any further poison to escape Rock's lips. The RTC troops attacked: Buchanan was backdropped out of the ring; Goodfather was clotheslined to the outside; Val and Ivory were given double coconuts, and Richards got the Rock Bottom! Stone Cold, though, hit the ring next and charged at Rock with the WWF Championship! Rock ducked, and hit Austin with a Samoan Drop! Austin again charged at Rock, but this time was hit with a Spinebuster! Austin rolled to the outside and kicked the ringsteps and ringside barrier in frustration. Wife Debra and Mr. McMahon came to ringside to calm the champion, but Austin was inconsolable as Rock stood tall in the ring! Rock was headed to King of the Ring with one goal in mind: recapturing the WWF Title! What could Austin and McMahon do to try and stop him?!
Irreconcilable Differences
Bradshaw was set to face Federation Tag Team Champion Christian in first round King of the Ring action this week on RAW. Beforehand, backstage, the big Texan showed off to tag team partner Faarooq the snazzy, new gold and silver poker chips he had purchased for their games with part of the hefty cash advance he'd received as part of his new, big-time book deal. Faarooq was not moved by the purchase, noting that there was nothing wrong with their old poker chips. When Bradshaw commented that he assumed Faarooq would be at ringside later on to support him, Faarooq revealed that he would be busy being interviewed by WWF.com's Droz. Bradshaw appeared put off by the news. JR was quick to remind viewers that Bradshaw was busy rubbing elbows with a CNBC television personality last week when Dean Malenko helped Saturn defeat Faarooq in KOTR action...
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Bradshaw vs. Christian (w/Rhyno)
Christian brought his and Edge's great equalizer, Rhyno, to the ring with him for the match. Bradshaw and Rhyno exchanged trash talk before the bell. The former went right to the attack on Christian, overpowering him with a scoop slam and an elbow drop for a two count. Christian attempted several less-than-sportsmanlike shortcuts as the match progressed; at one point, he rolled up Bradshaw with a handful of tights following a sunset flip. But Bradshaw wouldn't be put down so easily. He weakened Christian with a convincing sidewalk slam. He then set Christian up for that devastating big boot, but Christian ducked and Bradshaw's size twelve connected with referee Jim Cordaris! Cordaris went down. Bradshaw tended to Cordaris and Christian took advantage by pounding on Bradshaw from behind. Christian's attack had little effect, and Bradshaw turned around, kicked Christian in the gut, and delivered a Piledriver. This brought the Manbeast up onto the ring apron. When Bradshaw turned around, he lacked the necessary time to react and was taken off his feet by a vicious Gore! Bradshaw was down for the count. Rhyno promptly rolled Christian on top of Bradshaw and revived Cordaris, who counted the three. Christian advanced in the tournament! JR and Paul Heyman couldn't help but wonder if things might have ended a bit differently had Faarooq agreed to Bradshaw's request to appear in his corner for the match.
Christian and Edge, in the meantime, had other things to worry about. During the WarZone, Kings of the World Chris Jericho and Chris Benoit headed to the ring to address the tag team champions. The previous week, Jericho & Benoit had competed against the Dudley Boyz with a shot at Edge & Christian's tag team titles on the line, but E&C had seen to it that the match ended in a no contest! Y2J kicked off "RAW is Jericho" by demanding that Edge & Christian (or "Team Suck," as he called them) pony up and give the Kings of the World the tag title rematch they deserve. Jericho and Benoit got a response, but it wasn't from the tag champs. Rather, it was from the Dudley Boyz, who came to the ring. With D-Von nodding in agreement, Bubba Ray pointed out that he and his brother deserved a crack at the gold just as much as -- if not more than -- Jericho and Benoit did. Edge and Christian then appeared on the big screen thanks to the gods of the Titantron. E&C observed that the Kings of the World and Dudleys resembled jilted lovers battling it out on Jerry Springer. E&C reminded the world that they were the fightingest champions in the WWF and had no problem putting the titles on the line. The Dudleyz and Kings, however, would have to decide amongst themselves which of the two teams would receive said opportunity. Chris Benoit declared that he was silent but violent and that Jericho was violent as well, although perhaps less silent. They came thisclose to winning the tag team titles at Backlash, and wanted their rematch. Bubba countered with a quick summation of his and D-Von's impressive resume. Clearly, no agreement would be reached and Edge and Christian looked on with great satisfaction. Jericho asserted that the truth was that he and the Rabid Wolverine were simply on a higher level than the Dudleyz. Bubba retorted that "higher levels" were his and D-Von's speciality; he instructed D-Von to get the table! A brawl broke out between the two teams, and Edge and Christian, having accomplished their goal, looked on in laughter from backstage.
Earlier in the evening, Mr. Perfect shared the good news with new protege Test backstage: he had, indeed, been able to use his remaining political pull to secure Test a King of the Ring qualifying match. He would be facing Bubba Ray Dudley in tournament action live on RAW. The veteran predicted that Test's career was about to take a "turn for the Perfect."
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Test (w/Mr. Perfect) vs. Bubba Ray Dudley
Mr. Perfect joined JR and Paul Heyman for commentary during the match. Perfect pointed out that success followed him wherever he went, whatever he did, and predicted that he was going to make a megastar out of Test. Bubba Ray, is of course, no slouch, and he and Test had somewhat of a slobberknocker here, exchanging right hands and stiff chops. Power man Test seemed extremely motivated, coming off of a disappointing losing streak. He whipped Bubba hard into the corner and squashed him there with a running splash and then a series of knees to the midsection. Test managed to lift the big man over his shoulders and nail him with the Snake Eyes on the top turnbuckle. Bubba kicked out of a pin attempt. Test tried a clothesline but Bubba ducked and came back with his series of punches and finally a Dusty elbow to the middle of the forehead. Test hit the canvas and rolled to the outside. Bubba gave chase, sending Test headfirst into the ringside barrier. Mr. Perfect yelled at Bubba from the announce table, blasting the Dudley for resorting to cheap tactics. Bubba warned Mr. Perfect not to get involved, but Mr. Perfect stood up and dared Bubba to lay a hand on him. The distraction prompted Test to grab Bubba's head from behind and hit a nasty reverse neckbreaker right there on the cement. Test rolled Bubba back into the ring. Test dived off the top rope with a clothesline and then hit Bubba with a Urinage Backbreaker to score the pin and advance in the tournament, much to his mentor's satisfaction. Perhaps Test's career has taken a turn for the Perfect!
Vendetta
Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley told her father last week that she "feared for her safety" at the hands of Women's Champion Chyna. This week, when the daughter of the Chairman came out on RAW to make an announcement about the following week's program, she was accompanied by a team of riot police. Stephanie remained bound by a neckbrace and confined to a wheelchair. She described what Chyna did to her last week as "vicious and unprovoked," while JR noted on commentary that all Chyna had done was save Trish from Stephanie and Ivory's underhanded attack. Stephanie announced that next week on RAW, Chyna would defend the Women's Championship against Molly Holly -- and that she, Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley, would serve as Special Guest Referee for the match. She added that if Chyna laid so much as a finger on her during, before, or after the match, the Ninth Wonder of the World would be stripped of her championship and suspended on the spot!
Meanwhile, backstage in the Coalition's nerve center, Mr. McMahon confided in Patterson and Briscoe that he wasn't content with the riot cop solution to Stephanie's protection problem; he needed greater assurance that his daughter would be kept safe. When Briscoe suggested that McMahon pay a visit to the offices of the APA, Patterson noted that the APA are having their own problems these days and would likely be of little help. As if on cue, there was a knock on the door, and veteran manager and former WWF official Teddy Long walked in. Long said he'd heard about Mr. McMahon's dilemma and might be of some help. McMahon didn't understand. Long handed Mr. McMahon his business card, which revealed that he was now the owner of "Theodore Long Personal Protection Services." Long told McMahon that if he placed him in charge of his daughter's safety, she would find herself in good hands -- very good hands. Long offered to set up a face-to-face meeting with just the "Personal Protector" he had in mind for the McMahon heir, and Mr. McMahon stated that Teddy certainly had his attention...
Michael Cole had the opportunity to interview Molly Holly backstage about her big opportunity the following week to become WWF Women's Champion for the the first time. Molly, flanked by cousins Hardcore and Lightheavyweight Champion Crash, stated that it would be an honor simply to be in the same ring as Chyna. Hardcore Holly then grabbed the microphone and gently shoved Molly aside. He reiterated his warning to Haku in regards to Molly: she was off-limits to the Tongan Superstar. Crash added that if Haku didn't heed the warning, he'd have him to contend with. An intimidating prospect, to be sure. Molly took the microphone back from her cousins and told them she knew they were trying to help, but that they didn't need to worry themselves; Haku's was simply an innocent crush. "Like hell it is!" Hardcore exclaimed. Molly sighed in frustration.
The Best Laid Plans...
Goldust joined Dr. Cohen backstage in catering this week as Dr. Cohen sought further insight into WWF Commissioner and Intercontinental Champion William Regal's unhealthy fixation on Goldust. Goldust admitted to the shrink that he had serious concerns about Regal's mental competence. Cohen sighed that Regal hadn't been receptive to his suggestions that he get some professional help. Goldust wondered if some sort of intervention wouldn't be necessary in order to help Regal. They'd have to corner him when he least expected it...
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
William Regal (w/Terri) vs. Scotty 2 Hotty
Scotty 2 Hotty is flying solo these days, following the unceremonious firing of tag team partner Grand Masta Sexay by Mr. McMahon. Scotty was looking for the big win here against head honcho William Regal himself. As Terri offered Regal encouragement from ringside, JR and Heyman wondered how the duo planned on countering Goldust's turning the tables on them the previous week. A sour Regal dominated Scotty in the early going, keeping him grounded and punishing him with knee strikes and uppercuts. Demonstrating the epitome of overconfidence and bitterness, Regal hit Scotty with a Double Underhook Suplex and seemingly had Scotty pinned, but let up on the pinning combination voluntarily before the three count. Moments later, Goldust appeared on the ramp with Dr. Cohen, and the two men headed toward the ring. While an angry Terri confronted her ex-husband about her presence, Cohen approached Regal in the corner of the ring and asked that Regal hear him out; all he wanted to do was talk. Regal was disgusted and embarrassed by the implication being made for the second week in a row that it was he, not Goldust, who was suffering from psychopathology. The match nevertheless continued, and when Regal turned back to Scotty, he found himself on the receiving end of a Japanese armdrag. Scotty then set up for and executed the Worm with the usual crowd participation, and he scored the pinfall! Scotty had beaten the Commish and IC Champion and advanced in the King of the Ring tournament! Regal and Terri were stunned and outraged as Lilian Garcia announced the result of the match. Goldust shrugged from the aisle, as if to suggest that this was simply a bad break. JR then observed that William Regal had only himself to blame for his current set of troubles.
Later, the announcers received word from the production truck that Commissioner Regal would have an "important announcement" about the King of the Ring next week on RAW. Just what did the irascible Englishman have up his sleeve now?
The Quest for the Crown
King of the Ring Qualifying Match
Val Venis vs. Steve Blackman
Val Venis was looking to bring the King of the Ring title into RTC hands this week on RAW, but Steve Blackman showed up for a fight, as well. Venis worked Blackman over with his usual suplexes and legsweeps, but Blackman turned the tide with a powerful thrust kick that sent Val down for the two-count. The reformed former porn star bailed out of the ring. When Blackman gave chase, Venis took him down with a cheap clothesline and then sent him flying into the ringsteps. Back in the ring, Venis planted Blackman with a slam and went up top for the Moratorium (the former Money Show). Alas, Blackman rolled out of the way in time to avoid the impact of the move. When Val picked himself up, he received another standing sidekick square on the jaw. Blackman followed up with the pin to advance in the tournament! Post-match, a stern Steven Richards came down to ringside. WWF cameras were able to eavesdrop on Richards pubicly berating follower Venis for his disappointing failure...
Near the conclusion of the show, Michael Cole appeared from backstage to run down the brackets for next week's Round 2 King of the Ring action. Cole was interrupted early on, however, by "The One" Billy Gunn who reiterated his claim to being the "once and future king." Gunn began listing the now-familiar list of accolades on his resume, and Cole stopped Gunn and reminded him that he'd shared those credentials with RAW viewers for the past few weeks; his accomplishments are well-documented. Gunn shrugged that they were honors that bore repeating. Gunn was also sure to dismiss his Round 2 opposition -- Scotty 2 Hotty -- as "C-lister" who was as good as eliminated from the tournament.
When Cole did finally get around to previewing next week's KOTR action, the anticipated match-ups looked like this:
- Rhyno vs. Steve Blackman- Perry Saturn vs. Test (w/Mr. Perfect)
- Christian vs. Goldust
- Scotty 2 Hotty vs. "The One" Billy Gunn
-
WCW Clash of the Champions
May 27, 2001
Memphis, TN
Hosted by Joey Styles, Jerry Lawler, & Mike Tenay
1 -- On shockwave, The Bull d. Disqo via pinfall with a Swinging DDT. Disqo is not his usual, enthusiastic self as he makes his entrance. Joey Styles notes that Disqo has suffered decisive losses to both Big Poppa Pump and Kurt Angle in recent weeks. There is no dancing when Disqo hits the ring. Proud Italian-American The Bull does not seem to be as depressed as his opponent. The Bull is aggressive in the early going, weakening Disqo with a DDT and a brainbuster. Disqo makes somewhat of a comeback, foiling Bull's backdrop setup with a swinging neckbreaker and scoring a nearfall. A minute or two later, Disqo hits the elbowsmash from the second rope and gets another two count. Disqo soon looks for the Chartbuster, but Bull shoves Disqo into the turnbuckle. Bull then lifts Disqo up with a gorilla press and slams him down onto the mat. Disqo's shoulders are down, and the pinfall is counted! In the wake of the victory, Bull points to the Italian flag on the back of his trunks. Disqo, in the meantime, pulls himself up and, appearing disgusted, yanks off his own bling, tosses it aside, and walks to the back shaking his head.
2 -- Rob Van Dam def. Jeff Jarrett with the 5-Star Frogsplash at 12:39. The show begins with a battle between the quintessential extremist and the old school veteran. Jarrett brings his guitar to ringside, but during the pre-match staredown, RVD grabs the guitar and smashes it over the nearest turnbuckle, equalizing things before the match even begins! Furious, Jarrett attacks with a kick and clubbing shots to the back, beginning the bout. As referee Charles Robinson tries kicking the guitar debris out of the ring, Jarrett dropkicks Van Dam right into the corner. Jarrett goes for the Stroke very early on, but RVD puts Jarrett in a small package for a two count. This only further angers Jarrett, who tosses RVD over the top rope. On the outside, RVD reverses a whip and sends Jarrett flying over the guardrail into the crowd. Van Dam sends Jarrett back over the the rail with a a windmill kick. RVD stands on the guardrail and hits Jarrett on the cement with a nasty looking guillotine legdrop. Despite Robinson's warnings, RVD gets a chair and unfolds it in front of Jarrett's face. He goes for a baseball slide right on the outside, looking to dropkick the unfolded chair into Jarrett's face, but Jarrett rolls out of the way and RVD's effort proves to be for naught. Jarrett sends RVD back into the ring. Jarrett with a Spinebuster on RVD; he then tries locking RVD in the figure four. RVD hits a series of rapid kicks to the side of Jarrett's head, though, and Jarrett stumbles onto the ropes, allowing Van Dam to get back on his feet. Jarrett charges at RVD, who catches the Chosen One in a fireman's carry; a slam follows. RVD follows up with Rolling Thunder, and then positions Jarrett in the corner. Split-legged moonsault from the top rope! But only a two count. RVD plants Jarrett again at mid-ring with a falling powerslam. RVD goes for another guillotine from the middle rope but Jarrett moves. RVD catches a Jarrett boot but Jarrett is able to hit the Enziguri for a two count. Jarrett tries catching RVD in the Stroke again, but RVD throws a high-elevation dropkick, sending Jarrett stumbling into the corner. RVD charges in but eats a boot. Jarrett goes for a bulldog but RVD reverses into an atomic drop. RVD hits Jarrett with a face-buster and gets another two-count. RVD with a sunset flip and another near-fall, and Jarrett's now angry. He goes for a clothesline; RVD ducks and hits Jarrett with a DDT. RVD goes up top, setting up for the Five Star! Jarrett rolls to the outside. While RVD climbs down from the top, Jarrett fishes under the ring and pulls out a second guitar. Jarrett reenters the ring and charges at Van Dam with the weapon. RVD ducks the shot and dropkicks Jarrett. RVD plants Jarrett with a Split-Legged Powerbomb. Jarrett finds himself slumped in the corner. RVD picks up the guitar, still in-tact, and looks at it and then the crowd. Van Dam positions the guitar in front of Jarrett's face in the corner, and then makes his way to the top of the opposite corner. Joey Styles goes wild as RVD pulls off the Van Terminator using the guitar! Jarrett is out cold, and RVD hooks the leg; 1--2--3! Van Dam celebrates the victory with his usual pose. An unconscious Jarrett is taken to the back by medics. Has the old school been closed down for good?
(Overall rating = 80)
- Backstage, Ric Flair and Shawn Stasiak (who is now conforming to Flair's Armani-only dresscode) arrive and search every nook and cranny they pass for Executive Committee Head Dusty Rhodes.
3 -- WCW World and United States Heavyweight Champion Booker T def. Chris Kanyon to retain the US Heavyweight Title at 9:20. Kanyon debuts a new "Who's Betta?"-themed t-shirt. He offers Booker T a handshake prior to the opening bell, but Booker T isn't fooled and instead offers up his hands for a test of strength. Kanyon appears to accept the challenge, but tries cheapshotting Booker with a kick. Booker catches Kanyon's leg and shoves him to the mat. It's a promising start for the Playa. Kanyon charges at Booker, who throws a Harlem Sidekick and gets a two count. The announcers note that Booker will be looking to put Kanyon away early in order to reserve as much as possible for his World Title defense later on. Kanyon hits Booker with a couple of right hands. When he charges off the ropes, though, he is hit with a backdrop. Booker drops an elbow and gets another nearfall. Back on their feet, Kanyon is quick with a go-behind and backslide for his first near-fall. Kanyon accuses the ref of a slow count, opening himself up to a knife-edged chop from Booker so hard that it sends Kanyon down to the mat. Kanyon, though, hits a drop toe hold from his seated position. Kanyon mocks the Spineroonie, getting back on his feet with some ugly breakdancing. He taunts the crowd but is met by Booker T, who picks him up in order to drop him throat-first onto the top rope. Kanyon, however, flips over Booker and rolls him up for another two. Kanyon meaures Booker and nails him square in the jaw with a Superkick. He then lifts the limp Booker over his shoulders and drops him down with an awesome neckbreaker for another two. Kanyon avoids a clothesline and hits Booker with a bridging German Suplex; Booker kicks out at two. Kanyon isn't finished yet; Rocker Dropper and a tight pinning combination, again for two. Kanyon sends Booker into the corner and stomps a mudhole in him. He then takes a page out of Curt Hennig's handbook, somersalting over Booker while holding onto Booker's head, snapping his head back in a bad way. Kanyon waits for Booker to stand, then positions him for the Flatliner! Booker, though, comes out of nowhere with the BookEnd! Booker's neck is hurt, though, and he is unable to make a cover fast enough. He gets to his feet and moves toward Kanyon, who grabs Booker by the tights, sending his head into the middle turnbuckle. Kanyon rolls Booker up with a handful of tights, but Booker manages somehow to kick out! Kanyon signals for a Kanyon Cutter, but Booker lifts Kanyon up with a Belly to Back suplex. Spinaroonie! Kanyon then takes a Spinebuster. Booker, still favoring his neck, points to the top rope. He heads up and pulls off the always-impressive Harlem Hangover. He goes for the pin, and it's over. Booker retains! While he stands victorious, though, we take a look at instant replays from the match and are faced with the fact that Booker's neck absorbed a great deal of punishment during the match. After Booker begins making his way to the back, Kanyon regains consciousness and is in disbelief when referee Mickey Jay informs him of the match's outcome.
(Overall rating = 82)
- Pre-recorded comments from WCW Owner Shane McMahon are shown. Shane thanks the fans for tuning into the New WCW's first pay-per-view, promising that the best was yet to come. "If you're looking for Sports-Entertainment, there might be a better choice out there for you. If you're looking for the number one name in wrestling today, you've found it," he says.
4 -- WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions Kidman and Rey Mysterio def. Kai En Tai and The Hardy Boyz (w/Lita) in a Three Way Tag Team Match to retain the titles at 10:51. What started out as friendly competition between six of the top cruiserweights in the world has degenerated into a somewhat heated rivalry marked by multiple levels of tension. Indeed, things have heated up so much that by the time all six competitors have hit the ring here, a brawl breaks out and referee Billy Silverman faces an uphill struggle in restoring order. Funaki crossbody blocks Matt Hardy right over the top rope onto the outside. TAKA charges at Rey, who Frankensteiners TAKA out of the ring and crashes on the outside himself, as well. Kidman rushes Jeff, who backdrops Kidman out and then hurls himself over the top onto Kidman on the outside. Styles mentions the theory going around in the back that Kidman & Mysterio may have been less than innocent in the role they played in the unfolding of the Jeff-Shannon Moore-Kai En Tai-Lita saga on last week's Nitro. Some semblance of order falls into place as Rey and Matt become our legal men. Chaos continues to reign on the outside, though, as Funaki again makes eyes at Lita. Lita refuses to stand idly by and gives Funaki the Litacanrana right there on the outside! Matt sets Rey up for a Superplex in the ring but Rey shoves Matt off the top and hits him with a Thesz Press off the top turnbuckle. The pin is broken up by Jeff. Kidman is tagged in but receives a Japanese Armdrag by Matt. Matt makes a mistake quite common in WCW, however, and tries to Powerbomb Kidman. He receives the usual facejam for his trouble but is able to kick out before three. Matt tags in Jeff, who immediately flattens Kidman with a Springboard Dropkick. Kidman counters Jeff's subsequent moonsault with raised knees, though. Kidman tags in TAKA. Jeff catapults TAKA onto the top turnbuckle. Jeff attempts a belly to back but TAKA flips out of it and drives Jeff into the canvas with a Tiger Suplex. TAKA then locks Jeff up in a painful-looking surfboard, and a submission appears possible until Matt comes in to break up the hold. Jeff tags his brother back in. Matt catches TAKA and plants him with a slam after TAKA tries an Asai Moonsault. Matt gets the two count, and we're reminded that neither Kidman nor Mysterio has to be pinned in order for the titles to change hands. TAKA tags in Funaki, who immediately misses a Senton Splash on Matt. Matt tries a Crossbody from the top but eats canvas himself. It's then time for the obligatory six-man pileup as all of our competitors end up splattering themselves on the mat: Kidman connects with no one on an attempted legdrop; nobody's home when Jeff tries a sommersault legdrop; Rey's frogsplash ends badly; and TAKA's twisting body press is a complete failure. Once the bodies are cleared out, Matt tags in Rey, who is immediately caught in a nearfall by Funaki. Rey sends Funaki flying across the ring with a headscissors. Funaki tags in Jeff. Jeff charges at Rey, who leapfrogs and then hits a backkick and facejam for a two count. Rey charges at Jeff but receives a tilt-a-whirl slam. Jeff again goes up top and takes off with the Swanton Bomb, which is avoided by Rey. Matt reaches toward Jeff to make the tag, but Kidman walks over to Matt's corner and dropkicks the potentially-fresh Hardy to the matt. TAKA and Funaki join both men in brawling on the outside. Jeff kicks out after Rey makes a cover following a dropkick. Rey sends Jeff into the corner and sets him up on the top rope. Jeff fires away at Rey with right hands, but Rey knees Jeff in the head, weakening Jeff enough for Rey to come off the top with a Frankensteiner. Rey goes for the pin -- and uses the ropes for leverage! Rey scores the three coumt, and Silverman is oblivious to the fact that Rey used the ropes. Rey, having shown his and Kidman's true colors, immediately bails to the outside and joins Kidman in grabbing their title belts and quickly heading up the aisle. Matt and Lita tend to Jeff. "Who would ever have thought that Kidman and Mysterio would ultimately resort to such tactics?" Mike Tenay asks.
(Overall rating = 91)
- Big Poppa Pump and Stacy come to the ring. Big Poppa Pump first establishes, as usual, that he is your hookup. He then demands that Torrie Wilson bring her skinny little ass to the ring to show the world what she came up with: who she thinks might possibly stand a chance in the ring with the Genetic Freak. Torrie is all smiles as she makes her way onto the ramp. Torrie admits that her mind went in a million different directions when the Power Couple told her to bring Big Poppa Pump an opponent at the Clash. She could have sought a ghost from Scott's past, or a face from her own. There are plenty of WCW veterans and fresh faces in the back to whom she could have turned. But she witnessed firsthand the destruction Big Poppa Pump brought down upon the likes of Norman Smiley and Disqo in recent weeks and knew she had to find someone just as brutal, lethal, and dangerous as Big Poppa Pump. What she needed was a fighter -- an ultimate fighter. A red lighting scheme fills the arena, and appropriately intense entrance music brings "The World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock into the arena! Big Poppa Pump can't believe his eyes, but also does not budge; he appears to be looking forward to the fight as much as is the voracious Shamrock. Styles quickly runs down Shamrock's credentials as Torrie accompanies him to the ring, with Big Poppa Pump yelling for Shamrock to "bring it on!"
5 -- Ken Shamrock (w/Torrie) d. Big Poppa Pump (w/Stacy) via pinfall at 5:49. Steiner pounds away on Shamrock as soon as Shamrock slides into the ring. Steiner sends Shamrock into the corner with stiff kicks and right hands. Steiner then hits an overhead belly to belly suplex; Big Poppa Pump isn't missing a beat. But when Steiner attempts a second such suplex, Shamrock blocks it and hits one of his own. He tries putting on his Anklelock, but Steiner has enough presence of mind to make his way to the ropes. Steiner moves toward Shamrock, looking to tie up with him, but Shamrock uses a legsweep to take Steiner back down. Shamrock drops a knee on Steiner and goes for a cover; Steiner, his temper flaring, quickly kicks out. The two men exchange nasty right hands. Steiner knees Shamrock in the gut. He picks Shamrock up and slams him down with a nice gorilla press. Steiner drapes Shamrock by the neck on the bottom rope, allowing Stacy to slap him. Torrie takes exception to this and chases Stacy around the ringside area. Torrie finally mounts Stacy and the two women roll around the ringside area in full catfight mode until officials come out to separate them. Steiner slams Shamrock in the ring and drops an elbow. Instead of going for the cover, he signals for the Steiner Recliner. When he moves to lock on the hold, Shamrock is on all fours and uses a basic wrestling takedown to score a nearfall on Steiner. Shamrock gives Steiner a taste of his own medicine with a belly to belly suplex. Steiner gets back on his feet, daring Shamrock to try something else. Shamrock suddenly breaks out the Hurricanrana; this stuns Big Poppa Pump so much that Shamrock picks up the three count! Torrie holds the victorious Shamrock's arm in the air as they back up the ramp. Styles notes that there are worse ways to make your debut in WCW than by scoring a pinfall victory on Big Poppa Pump. In the ring, Big Poppa Pump is inconsolable despite Stacy's best efforts. Steiner corners referee Charles Robinson and decks him with a right hand! He then locks him in the Steiner Recliner. Shamrock runs back to the ring to make the save, but Steiner bails out in time to avoid coming to harm. He and Stacy leave through the crowd while Shamrock tends to the broken Robinson.
(Overall rating = 80)
- A promo for the Great American Bash, returning on July 22nd, airs.
6 -- "Undeniable" Mike Sanders def. Diamond Dallas Page at 9:08. Sanders's entrance now features dimmed house lights and a spotlight trained on Sanders. He enters first, followed by Page. DDP stops at ringside and accepts a good luck kiss from wife Kimberly, who has a front row seat for the match. Styles acknowledges that the last time Kimberly was seen on WCW television, she and DDP were having marital problems. The talk of the locker room is that Page and Kimberly are on their way to reconciliation, as is clearly suggested by Kimberly's kiss. When Page enters the ring, bitter rival Sanders creates further tension with DDP by mocking him for his sentimental interaction with Kimberly. Page, insulted enough by Sanders's having crashed the Tonight Show earlier in the week, responds to Sanders with a right hand to the crowd's approval, and Kimberly's. The match is underway as Page hits several left and right shots to Sander's midsection. Hiptoss by Page and a two count. Page whips Sanders into the corner and sets up for a slam, but Sanders holds onto the ropes. When Page comes at Sanders, Sanders hits him with an eyepoke. Sanders drives Page face-first down onto both of Sander's knees. Sanders takes the time to pose before attempting a cover; DDP powers out. Sanders leaps off the middle rope with an attempted ax handle blow. Page catches him and executes his side belly to belly. Two count. Page picks Sanders up for the pancake but Sanders grabs Page's legs, takes him down, and locks on a Boston Crab. Sanders holds onto the ropes for extra leverage and Nick Patrick orders Sanders to break the hold. Sanders moves onto a Cobra Clutch, choking away at Page while Kimberly looks on with concern. Sanders drops Page with a hammerlock jawbreaker. Sanders demands his sunglasses from the ring girl, puts them on, and then climbs to the top turnbuckle. Not surprisingly, he has wasted too much time, and when he leaps off the top with a body block, Page catches him and gets Sanders up with an overhead slam! Sanders kicks out of a pin attempt. As Sanders stands, Page signals for the Diamond Cutter! Sanders elbows Page in the gut to foil the attempt, however. Page recovers by hitting the discus clothesline with such force that both men go tumbling over the top rope. Sanders is the first to seize an opening there, dropkicking DDP hard into the guardrail. Kimberly looks concerned. Sanders walks over to her seat on the front row and harrangues her. When DDP stops seeing stars, he realizes Sanders is hitting on and/or harassing his wife. Page, incensed, runs toward Sanders with a pearl harbor attack. Sanders ducks, however, and DDP ends up hitting Kimberly! Page is devastated as he tries to assess Kimberly's condition. But Sanders is less than sympathetic, as he grabs Page from behind. Sanders turns Page around and kicks him low. Sanders sends DDP back into the ring while David Penzer and other crew members check on Kimberly. DDP is in serious pain as Sanders brings him to his feet in the ring. Sanders pulls off the 3.0 backbreaker and goes for the pin -- and secures it! Shameless Sanders, well-aware of his good fortune, puts his sunglasses on and does a couple of victory laps around the ring. Patrick helps DDP to his feet, and DDP immediately heads outside to check on his wife. Page's concern is apparent by his facial expression. Meanwhile, Sanders's spotlight shines on him at the arena entrance.
(Overall rating = 82)
- A video package documenting the historic feud between Kurt Angle and Sting so far is shown.
7 -- Kurt Angle def. Sting via referee stoppage at 14:33. During ring entrances, the announcers drive home the point that Angle is dying to secure a symbolic win over The Franchise. Sting, meanwhile, finally gets his shot to teach Angle something about respect. Lash Leroux, crutches and all, is shown watching intently on a monitor in the back, pulling for the Stinger. The match begins with a collar and elbow tie-up. Angle with a snapmare and boots to Sting's back. Angle drops Sting with a Belly to Belly. Angle covers for a two, and then immediately goes for a second pinning combination for two. Angle whips Sting into the ropes; Sting blocks several rights and lefts and takes Angle down with a right of his own. A wobbly Angle then falls victim to a one-handed bulldog courtesy of Sting. Sting scores a two count. Angle uses a drop toehold on Sting and then locks Sting in a painful-looking choke with his legs. Sting's arm falls twice, but Sting rallies before a third arm drops. He makes it to the ropes and Angle is forced to break the hold. Angle takes the boots to Sting again. Angle sends Sting into the ropes again. Sting ducks a clothesline and takes Angle off his feet to a pop with a high-elevation forearm. Sting follows up with his trademark dropkick. Angle promptly rolls to the outside and curses. He contemplates sliding back into the ring but Sting is waiting for him. Angle paces some more, finally catching Sting by the boots and dragging him to the outside. Angle kicks Sting in the midsection and sends him headfirst into the ringsteps. Angle injures Sting with a snap suplex on the cement outside. Referee Mickey Jay insists that Angle take it back into the ring. Angle rolls Sting back to the inside. Angle brings Sting to his feet. Sting reverses an Irish whip and hiptosses Angle. Angle sells a lower back injury. Sting dropkicks Angle on said lower back sending him front-first into the turnbuckle. Angle reels from the pain and Sting catches him where he needs to for a possible Scorpion Death Drop! Angle escapes with a legsweep and looks for the Anklelock, but Sting comes up with a small package for a two count in an exciting sequence. Angle positions himself for a German Suplex but Sting pulls off the standing switch and takes Angle down with a belly to back of his own. Angle gets back up but Sting drives his head into the top turnbuckle ten times with the crowd counting along. Angle collapses face-first onto the canvas. Demonstrating that he is not without his own technical merit, Sting locks Angle in the Inverted STF, a move he learned from one-time foe Great Muta. Tenay freaks over the possibility that Sting may cause Angle to tap, but Angle is able to squirm his way out of the hold. Sting will not relent; he goes for another dropkick but falls short when Angle has the presence of mind to stand back and avoid the move. Angle with an Olympic Slam! Angle growls as he takes his singlet straps down. Angle sends Sting into the corner. After hitting Sting with a back elbow, Angle positions Sting on the top rope. Super Belly to Belly by Angle! Angle makes the cover. 1--2--no! Sting crawls toward the ropes, but Angle grabs Sting by the Anklelock. Angle applies the pressure, and it's on! Anklelock is locked in! Sting trembles through the pain and will not tap. Frustrated, Angle breaks the hold. He continues working over the ankle by dropping a couple of elbows on it. He then drapes Sting's foot atop the lower rope and drives his (Angle's) body down onto the ankle multiple times. Angle ties Sting up in the corner and chops him a few times. Working on adrenaline, Sting counters by shifting Angle into the corner and hitting chops of his own! Sting whips Angle into the opposite corner. Limping through the ankle injury, Sting hits a Stinger Splash! He whips Angle into the opposite corner -- another Stinger Splash! Sting calls to the crowd and then locks on the Scorpion Deathlock! Angle yells out in agony but almost freakishly pulls himself up and crawls to the ropes. Sting breaks the hold. Sting kicks Angle in the midsection and goes for a suplex. He gets Angle up a few feet, but Angle escapes Sting's clutches and throws a release German Suplex. Angle covers. Two count. He stands and waits for Sting -- attempted Olympic Slam, but Sting slips out and hits the Scorpion Death Drop! Amazingly, it yields a 2.9 count only -- Angle gets his foot on the rope at the last minute! Working off the energy of the crowd, Sting picks up Angle for a power slam. Angle slips out and catches Sting by the ankle. Anklelock is applied once more! Sting fights through the pain again, and after several seconds is able to struggle toward the corner. But Angle redoubles his efforts and drags Sting right back to the center of the ring, doubling up on the pressure to the ankle. Sting still will not tap, to the disbelief of Angle, referee Jay, and the announcers. "Tap, dammit!" Angle yells. Jay virtually pleads with Sting to call it quits, but Sting visibly and verbally refuses. Angle growls animalistically; he won't break the hold this time. Finally, recognizing that Sting is on the verge of significant injury and of losing consciousness, Mickey Jay calls for the bell. Sting rolls to the outside. Angle's arm is raised in the ring. Officials and Leroux come to ringside to tend to Sting in the meantime. Styles puts it over as a crucial victory for Kurt Angle, but notes that there is more to the story than that and that the book cannot yet be closed on this one.
(Overall rating = 92)
- "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes walks to the ring to an ovation. In the ring, the Head of the Executive Committee acknowledges the rumor that Ric Flair has some business to discuss with him. Dusty figures there's no time like the present, and calls Flair out. Flair enters with protege Shawn "The Star" Stasiak at his side. Flair and Rhodes go face-to-face in the ring, where Flair tells Dusty they have a problem. Dusty notes that they have had a problem for decades. Flair nods that history is exactly what this is all about. Flair says that Shane McMahon made a unilateral decision. He decided that Dusty Rhodes was the man who had the qualifications, the right, the respect necessary to be at the helm of WCW. But Flair says that Dusty Rhodes hasn't been qualified to head up this company for twenty years, because it was twenty years ago that Ric Flair defeated Dusty Rhodes for his first World Heavyweight Title. "I walked the aisle in Kansas City, I styled and profiled, and I kicked your ass, Dusty Rhodes. I became the man, and I have never, ever been unseated, pal." Dusty notes that history is all about interpretation. He says the two of them will never like each other -- they come from different worlds. The Nature Boy is all about limousines and jet planes. Dusty Rhodes is the son of a plumber who has lived and loved the American Dream. And now, he's Ric Flair's boss, and there's really nothing to be done about it. Flair points at Rhodes and says that the day he takes orders from Dusty Rhodes is the day Satan builds a snowman. Dusty thinks that's a matter of opinion, as if to put Flair on warning. Dusty turns his back and heads toward the ringsteps. Flair gives Stasiak the signal, and Stasiak attacks Dusty from behind! Dusty turns around and blocks Stasiak's right hands, taking Stasiak down with his unmistakable punches and finally a Dusty elbow right to the forehead. Flair throws off his jacket and confronts Dusty, only to be knocked down as well. Dusty dares Flair to get back up and try it again. Flair seems tempted, but Kanyon hits the ringside area and convinces Flair and Stasiak that backing off for the time-being is the wiser course of action. Flair, Kanyon, and Stasiak back up the aisle while Dream stands on the turnbuckle, gesturing that he'll tangle with Flair again anytime, anyplace!
8 -- WCW World Tag Team Champions NC-17 def. The Impact Players (w/Dawn Marie) to retain the titles at 11:40. Storm, Credible, and Dawn enter first and strike their signature pose. NC-17 then enter. Palumbo and Credible start things off. Palumbo outpowers Credible, no-selling a clothesline and knocking Justin down with one of his own. Palumbo sends Credible into the ropes and takes him down with a shoulderblock. Scoop slam at mid-ring and a cover by Palumbo for two. Palumbo charges Credible near the ropes, and Justin drops Palumbo to the outside. Credible keeps the referee distracted by making the tag to Storm, and so Dawn seizes her opportunity to hit Palumbo with a couple of kicks. When Palumbo returns to the ring, Storm catches him with an immediate spinning heel kick and goes for the cover; two. Palumbo blocks a suplex and hits one of his own. Palumbo heads to the corner to tag in O'Haire but Storm buts the kibosh on that with a dropkick. Storm sends Palumbo into a neutral corner with a superkick, and Dawn chokes away at Palumbo while Storm keeps Billy Silverman occupied. Palumbo crawls back toward the center of the ring but is caught by a Storm springboard dropkick. Two count. Storm remains on the offensive until Palumbo catches him with an inverted atomic drop. Credible breaks up the pin attempt. Silverman loses control here, as Credible holds Palumbo in position to take another superkick from Storm. Palumbo moves, though, and Storm inadvertently nails Credible! It looks as though Palumbo may finally be able to make the tag. He knocks down Storm with a right hand and makes his way over to O'Haire, but Dawn Marie, damn her, reaches in and trips Palumbo on his way! Storm grabs Palumbo and drops an elbow right onto Palumbo's crotch. But Silverman has noticed Dawn's interference this time, and having been pushed too far by the Players, he ejects her from the ringside area! The Manager of Champions and her charges react as though this is a complete and total outrage, but Silverman's ruling stands! Palumbo takes advantage of Storm's distraction, hitting him with a backbreaker and then dropping him on the top turnbuckle with a powerbomb. Palumbo gets a two count. Palumbo incapacitates Storm with a hangman's neckbreaker. He knocks Credible off the apron with a surprise back kick, and finally tags in O'Haire! O'Haire is the proverbial house afire. Storm eats a back bodydrop. Credible slides back into the ring but is soon tossed right over the top rope. O'Haire catches Storm's boot on an attempted superkick and O'Haire hits Storm with one of his roundhouse kicks. O'Haire gets a two count. O'Haire sends Storm into the corner and squashes him there with a knee. Hanging vertical suplex by O'Haire. O'Haire picks Storm up in a Fireman's carry, but Credible enters the ring to prevent whatever O'Haire had in mind; he takes O'Haire out at the knees. The Players whip O'Haire into the ropes and send him flying into the air with a double back body drop. Silverman angrily sends Credible out of the ring. He goes to his corner and Storm immediately tags him in. Credible grabs his Singapore Cane before entering the ring. He aims at O'Haire, but O'Haire ducks. O'Haire picks Credible up in a Fireman's Carry and slams him. The cane slides out of the ring. Two count on Credible. Credible slips out of an attempted double underhook powerbomb and trips O'Haire, sending him down onto the bottom rope neck first. Credible chokes O'Haire on said rope. O'Haire stumbles to his feet and Credible hits him with a lifting DDT. Very close, but only a two count. Credible tries dropping an elbow, but O'Haire moves and tags Palumbo back in. Palumbo gets Credible up in a torture rack. Storm enters the ring, but Palumbo nails him with the old Jungle Kick, sending Storm through the ropes and crashing to the outside. All the while, Palumbo has maintained Credible in the torture rack above his shoulders, demonstrating great strength. Once Storm has been dealt with, Palumbo drops Credible with a neckbreaker out of the torture rack position and scores the pinfall! NC-17 celebrate with their titles. Dawn reemerges and checks on Storm and Credible outside. She then gives Palumbo and O'Haire both the evil eye, trash-talking them and vowing that they won't get lucky twice...
(Overall rating = 79)
- Joey Styles introduces a video that is apparently an "exclusive sneak peak." Dramatic shots of a familiar silhouette in an equally similar pose are shown. According to the text shown on the video, "He's Back" on June 7th, which would be the Nitro set to air in just under two weeks...
9 -- Goldberg def. WCW World and United States Heavyweight Champion Booker T to capture the World Heavyweight Title at 11:19. The match begins with a staredown at mid-ring. The two competitors then lock up, with Booker forcing Goldberg into the corner before Goldberg powers up and sends Booker down to the mat on his back. Goldberg charges at Booker T, who sends Goldberg down with a hip toss. Booker goes for an early cover. Booker attempts a sidekick on Goldberg as he stands, but Goldberg sends Booker flying over the top rope. Goldberg goes to the outside and shows a bit of ruthlessness as he picks Booker up and drops him on the neck on the ringside barrier, demonstrating that he was scouting Booker's earlier match during which his neck was punished. When Booker stands, Goldberg hits him with a couple of Muay Thai-style palm thrusts. After reeling, Booker T fires back with rights hands of his own. Goldberg moves to Clothesline Booker, but Booker catches Goldberg with the BookEnd right there on the outside! Of course, Booker is unable to attempt a pinfall down on the floor and he sends Goldberg back into the ring. There, Booker sends Goldberg into the ropes, setting up for a Spinebuster, but Goldberg won't budge when Booker tries to execute the move. It doesn't help that Booker's neck is as strained as it is. Booker tries a clothesline; Goldberg ducks and picks Booker up, dropping him with a power slam. Booker kicks out of a pin attempt. Goldberg immediately picks Booker up again, holds him in a clinch, and hits several knee strikes right to the champion's head. Booker is left down in the corner. Goldberg gets into three point stance in the opposite corner and charges in for a Spear! Booker pops up with a leapfrog, though; Goldberg is able to put the breaks on before launching himself shoulder-first into the ringpost. Booker grabs Goldberg in a sidewalk slam; two count. Booker then backs Goldberg into the corner and hits him with a series of knife-edge chops. Goldberg catches Booker's arm on the fifth attempt and puts on a cross armlock, referred to by Joey Styles as a "Jujigatame." Mike Tenay observes that Goldberg is once again adding to his offensive arenal with MMA-style maneuvers and holds. Goldberg has Booker tied up in the armlock right at the center of the ring, but Booker resists the temptation to tap. He slowly powers back up to his feet. With his free arm, he grabs Goldberg in what might have turned out to be the BookEnd, but Goldberg takes Booker back off his feet with a legsweep. Goldberg gets Booker up in a Pumphandle Slam, but Booker slips out before Goldberg can slam him to the mat. Booker kicks Goldberg in the midsection, bounces off the ropes, and connects with the scissors kick. Spinaroonie. Booker drops an elbow; two count. Booker persists, planting Goldberg with a snap suplex. He gestures toward the top rope, and it looks as though the World/US Champ is ready to put Goldberg away! Booker sets himself up on the top rope for the missile dropkick, but Goldberg kips up, rushes the turnbuckle, and knocks Booker off his feet. Goldberg lifts Booker off the turnbuckle with a gorilla press, and slams him onto the canvas. Goldberg again sets up for the spear, but Booker is able to come up with a drop toe hold. Booker is in bad shape following the press slam, but works up the strength to drop Goldberg with a BookEnd! Booker, unfortunately, is slow to make the pin attempt, and Goldberg kicks out before three. Booker picks Goldberg up for an atomic drop, but Goldberg uses his power to counter booker, and hits the champion with a double underhook suplex, adding pressure to the already-injured neck. When Booker stands, Goldberg explodes out of nowhere with a Spear! The crowd are on their feet. Jackhammer! One, two, three! Booker rolls out of the ring, and Nick Patrick hands Goldberg the World Heavyweight Title! Goldberg stands tall on each of the four corners of the ring in celebration, and then gestures to Booker on the outside, inviting him back in the ring. Booker, curious and fatigued (still favoring that neck), slowly steps back into the ring. There, Goldberg extends his hand and after a moment, Booker reciprocates. The show concludes on that sportsmanlike note.
(Overall rating = 78)
Post-Clash of the Champions News and Notes
WCW.com's updated Nitro preview teases that both Goldberg and Booker T will be in the building. Ken Shamrock will also be giving an interview. The show is being held in Austin, TX, which is Dusty Rhodes country.
Ken Shamrock and Kimberly have been added to WCW.com's roster. DDP has been pushing for Kimberly to be brought in, likely because he feels his stock in WWFE will rise with his marketable wife as part of his on-air act. Shamrock, as previously reported, signed with the WWF weeks ago. His agreement does not require him to work a full, year-round schedule for WCW, and will have opportunities to work shoot fights outside the WWFE umbrella. It is unclear whether he will be managed by Torrie on-air in future.
The current plan is to build toward Goldberg vs. Kurt Angle as the main event at Starrcade in December. Goldberg will be depicted as more of an antihero than a categorical babyface, with the belief being he'll be a more dynamic character in the long-run as the former. The plan is for him to continue to build his MMA-style offense.
Mike Awesome was backstage at the show but not used. He was initially pencilled in for a run-in involving the tag team title match but those plans were shelved. He remains in favor with management, though.
For what it's worth, buzz backstage was that with the future of the XFL in the air, Jesse Ventura, who has been calling games for the WWFE-owned league, is telling friends he may be returning to the commentary booth for WCW. There is no indication for what this might mean for Jerry Lawler.
Officials are said to be thrilled with what Rob Van Dam is bringing to the table, which could lead to the signing of a few more marquee ECW names, especially if the buzz surrounding the Bischoff-Hogan startup continues strong.
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PPV predix are definitely welcome, and I'll be doing a prize for the winner (or you, JC, if no one else participates, LOL). Clash'll be up tomorrow AM.
Enforcer, I will admit that the 10-man was rather a cheap way to go about the hard-sell for the Clash.
I'm glad someone had heard of Sanderson, alancer! I didn't know of him until I researched him for this!
Although personally I would have an inaugrial ppv be more of a supercard. -
Happy to see Kennedy pick up the win in the 6-man. I hope he continues to emerge as a top player on the Smackdown side.
It appears as though you'll be handling Haas's return a lot better than WWE has. I would've been tempted to have given Chavo the clean win and saved the Charlie attack for post-match, but I understand you were protecting Shelton.
MNM continues to be an entertaining act. I'm hoping we see more distinct personalities emerge from all of the New Blood members in the weeks to come.
I'm glad to see the Corporation win, but I hate the thought of Jericho being saddled with Masters. Yuck.
The cage match with Lashley and the overall program with JBL has done a great job of elevating him. That said, I don't think the Kurt Angle segments are helping help very much. More than anything else, they're stressing that Lashley is not on Angle's level.
Kane-Foley was about as crazy as it needed to be.
I wasn't crazy about the finish to the Cena-Rock match. I'm not high on Cena at all, but he needed a clean win, here.
Sensible booking as far as Batista-Benoit goes.
Vince reversing the title change was pretty much perfect, and gives you plenty more mileage for Edge/RVD. Nice.
Overall, thumbs up!
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Catching up:
RAW:
-Booker as a fighting champion is a good thing, and Evolution coming out on top sets up the cage match nicely.
-Hoping Christian's significant victory over Nash will not be forgotten and will be used to position Christian in the upper midcard.
-Jeff Hardy is a good choice as the recipient of Steiner's brutality, although it'd be even better if Steiner's list of victims grew.
-Surprised that Goldberg pretty much squashed Mizark... and wondering who IS next.
-I thought it was kind of silly that no one had showed Kane and RVD the replay of the mystery man interfering (or at least clued them in on it), but I like the idea of the Dudleyz having some fresh opponents.
Smackdown!
-The Lesnar-Angle setup for Judgment Day is interesting. Either outcome seems possible, and either outcome (Lesnar dropping the title or Angle leaving) would be interesting.
-No complaints about Dinsmore's introduction, and you're handling the Benoit/Rhyno split in somewhat of a unique way, which I like.
-You've done the near-impossible and gotten me interested in Hogan-Show based on the stips. Heyman in the mix helps a lot.
-The cruiserweights continue to be a major highlight. There are lots of places to go with the Jamie Noble character, and Rico adds some color to the division, as well. Sucks about Noble's broken nose... and nice touch in regards to the cause of said broken nose.
-Despite the Cena chain bit being a bit too reminscent of Eddie's phanton chairshot gimmick, it did its job of building heat.
-The Undertaker whodunnit could be fun. He needs a strong opponent following the FBI stuff.
-A-Train jobbing on Velocity didn't do him any favors.
Looking forward to more!
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Edge over RVD
The Rated-R superstar's run can't come to an end just yet.
Benoit over Batista
There's more to be done with Benoit/Batista/Flair, so Benoit wins here and Batista continues the chase.
Cena over Rock
Any credibility Cena has built would be damaged by a loss here.
Foley over Kane
If Cena/Rock weren't on the card, I'd predict Kane over Foley. But I see Foley picking up a bloody win and Kane carrying on the violent vendetta in the weeks that follow.
Corporation over DX
I see a surprise appearance here, likely in the form of a new Corporation member; I think both sides need beefing up, preferably with some younger faces.
Lashley over JBL
Third time's the charm.
MNM over Second City Saints
MNM just won the titles back. And I think fans would resent it if the New Blood started winning championships left and right. I think there was more to be done with the MNM-Kendrick/London feud, so I hope that's revived somehow.
Shelton over Chavo
Chavo will come close, but another win for Shelton (perhaps tainted) will further build his heat.
Veterans over New Blood
The individual feuds can continue from there.
I'm stumped on the bonus.
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Hosted by Joey Styles, Mike Tenay, and Jerry Lawler
Nashville, TN
Thursday May 24, 2001
Free for All
With WCW's return to pay-per-view via the Clash of the Champions looming just around the corner, all hell had broken loose between a number of top WCW Stars the previous week on Nitro. As a result, the new Head of the Executive Committee Dusty Rhodes had resolved to address the various tensions this week -- six days prior to the Clash -- with Nitro's first ever 10-Man Uproar: a 5-on-5 tag team match in which there had to be a winner. Joey Styles reported that it would be the World and United States Champion Booker T teaming up once more with Clash challenger Goldberg, as well as Tag Team Champions NC-17 and Mike Awesome against the force of Ric Flair, Chris Kanyon, Shawn "The Star" Stasiak, and The Impact Players! The friction between the men was well-documented, and guaranteed a dramatic main event encounter on Nitro.
Having heard the news, Ric Flair was instantly displeased backstage, venting to Shawn Stasiak and Chris Kanyon that he was Ric Flair and would never, ever be prepared to take orders from arch-nemesis Dusty Rhodes, particularly not on a regular basis. Irate, the Nature Boy searched the entire arena for the American Dream, only to be informed by agent John Laurinaitis that Rhodes was not at Nitro this week. When Flair learned that Dusty would be in attendance at Sunday's pay-per-view, he vowed to confront Rhodes there and then, promising that Dusty wouldn't like what Flair had in store for him.
Scott Hudson had the opportunity to interview Kanyon about his upcoming shot at Booker T's US Title -- a championship Kanyon had had in his sights ever since the Season Premiere on April 4th. Kanyon told Booker T that it was simple: the United States Title is Kanyon's "Manifest Destiny," and that there was nothing Booker T could do to prevent Kanyon from realizing it. "Nobody's better than Kanyon," he said. "Least of all you, Sucka!" Kanyon mockingly proclaimed.
Booker, though, had a lot on his mind. A video package aired documenting Goldberg's attainment of the #1 Contendership and the complications that have developed between challenger and champion in recent weeks. Without a doubt, the match between Goldberg and Booker Sunday night on PPV would be a fierce battle between two men with a mutual, if tentative, respect and also a shared goal: to be the top dog in World Championship Wrestling. Would Booker T continue to live the dream he'd built over the course of an entire career? Or would Goldberg experience a second, meteoric rise to success at the Clash? We would find out soon enough!
NC-17 had a chance for rebuttal this week. Seven days prior, "Manager of Champions" Dawn Marie had denounced the World Tag Team Champions as WCW management's golden boys -- "manufactured goods." Backstage, Hudson asked O'Haire and Palumbo how they felt about Dawn's criticisms and her vow that Lance Storm and Justin Credible would take NC-17's titles and return them to legitimacy. O'Haire said that if Dawn's aim was to tell some hard truths, NC-17 could play along, as well. Justin Credible, for example? His claim to fame is having once been a lackey of the Kliq. "How five years ago is that?" Palumbo asked, shaking his head. O'Haire then moved onto Lance Storm. "I keep on hearing about what a seasoned veteran he is. But it didn't take long for NC-17 to beat him for the tag team titles, now, did it?" Finally, he moved on to Dawn Marie, stating that she wasn't a "Manager of Champions" but rather a "scuz-bag" who would end up back in the Jersey strip joints from which she hails once NC-17 had gone through Storm & Credible...
The 10-man main event rolled around with anticipation for WCW's return to pay-per-view at a climax. Prior to the opening bell, Booker T and Goldberg engaged in a tense discussion over tag team protocol, clearly the result of Goldberg's controversial blind tag to Booker the week before. During the chaotic mass, Mike Awesome finally got his hands on turncoat former partner Lance Storm. From the outside, Dawn exchanged insults with both O'Haire and Palumbo, and she repeatedly instructed Storm and Justin Credible to go after NC-17 whether they were legally tagged in or not. Dawn further pushed the envelope by walking over to David Penzer and caressing NC-17's tag team title belts, hinting that they would soon be in her hands. Flair got in the face of both Goldberg and Booker during the match, and whenever he provoked those men to go after him with their aggressive offense, neither Kanyon nor Stasiak was far behind to bail Flair out. The finish: Kanyon and Awesome were the legal men. Awesome hit Kanyon with a big backdrop, and Awesome then pointed to Booker, asking the crowd if they wanted him to make the tag and allow Booker some revenge on Kanyon, who had been pestering him for weeks. Awesome indeed made the tag, and as Kanyon stood, Booker went after him relentlessly with the Harlem Sidekick and then the Scissors Kick. Booker delighted the crowd with the Spinaroonie, but then Storm and Credible illegally entered the ring to relieve the pressure on Kanyon. Storm and Credible's double-team was curtailed by Goldberg, who came in and clotheslined the Impact Players out of the ring from behind. A winded Kanyon then saw a golden opportunity as the equally fatigued Booker was position a few steps behind Goldberg, facing his back. Kanyon went up to Booker and shoved him into Goldberg. Goldberg turned around in confusion and, assuming that Booker T had taken a cheap shot, Goldberg planted him with a Yakuza Kick! Angry, Goldberg promptly hopped out of the ring. Awesome and NC-17 tried explaining to him what had happened, but in the meantime, Kanyon had taken the initiative of picking up the limp Booker and dropping him with the Flatliner. This allowed him to score the pin! Kanyon had done it! Flair and Stasiak happily congratulated the smug Kanyon. Awesome tended to the prone Booker. Things broke down again on the outside between the tag team champions and their pending challengers. And Goldberg stood at the top of the ramp taking it all in. It looked as though it would be a war between Goldberg and Booker T for the World Title at the Clash!
A Challenge of Olympic Proportions
WCW.com broke the news over the weekend that Kurt Angle would be at Nitro this week with a special challenge for his Clash opponent, Sting. The week before, Sting had ruffled Angle's feathers by showing the audacity to have prevented Angle from breaking Disqo's "freakin'" angle. Sting again took the bull by the horns this week by making his way to the ring and forcing the Olympic Hero's hand; he called him out to issue his special challenge. Kurt Angle stepped onto the ramp wearing his gold medal proudly. He wore an expression of disgust on his face and shook his head. He told Sting that when he made the jump to WCW, he knew what he had to do: the best way to prove where he would fall in the WCW pecking order would be to decimate the face of World Championship Wrestling: Sting. Angle said he would do just that on Sunday. He knew this to be the case because he saw right through Sting. Behind the facepaint, the trench coat, and the baseball bat, Sting has no wrestling ability to speak of. Sting is an illusion, Angle explained. "It's true; it's damn true." Angle said he had already demonstrated his shooting ability. "Just ask the kid -- Lash Leroux," he cracked. He didn't want to have to wait until Sunday to expose Sting, but the only problem was that Dusty Rhodes had made it clear last week that Sting and Angle weren't permitted to lock up until the Clash. Angle's solution was for Sting to contend with the next best thing. Angle brought out a young man he introduced as Cael Sanderson, an undefeated NCAA wrestling champion and Olympic sure-shot. Sting interjected that he was quite impressed by Sanderson's resume, but instructed Angle to put up or shut up: issue the special challenge or go home, already. Angle challenged Sting to try and outwrestle Sanderson, then and there on Nitro. "Hell; I challenge you to try and survive Cael Sanderson!" Angle exclaimed. Sting thought the proposal over for a moment and then replied: "As far as I'm concerned," Stinger said, "it's showtime!" Angle sent Cael to the ring.
Sting rocked Sanderson early with a series of right hands. He sent him to the mat with a clothesline and then isolated him in the corner with a series of chops. At ringside, Angle didn't like what he was seeing. Sanderson's amateur prowess did soon gain him an upper hand, as he caught Sting in a Full Nelson and took him down to the mat. Sanderson kept Sting grounded. Angle was quite pleased as he watched Sting struggle in vain to escape a painful armbar. With the crowd behind him, though, Sting began to rally and he fought his way back up to a vertical base, much to the shock and horror of Sanderson and Angle! Sting took Sanderson down with a headbutt and then sent him into the corner. Two Stinger Splashes! Angle scrambled to intervene, but Sting quickly dropped Sanderson with a Scorpion Death Drop and referee Charles Robinson counted the pin! Angle grabbed Sting's baseball bat at ringside and hopped onto the apron, prepared to rush at Sting. But when he saw that Sting was ready for the charge, he backed off. Sting smiled at Angle, who yelled that he would make him tap out. "You don't want none of this!" the raving lunatic screamed. Sting, meanwhile, seemed calm, cool, and collected headed into the Clash!
Uninvited Guest
All evening long, the announcers promised to air footage of Diamond Dallas Page's appearance the night before on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Page, of course, has been tight with the late-night host ever since teaming with him against Road Wild in 1998. On the program, Leno asked DDP about his scheduled Clash match with Mike Sanders, who Leno referred to as "that obnoxious little guy." Page told Leno he knew what it was like, trying to score a break in this business. He said he didn't have a problem with young guys looking for their shot, but he did take issue with the ones like Sanders, who cut corners and showed no interest in paying their dues. So he was going to the Clash of the Champions to teach Sanders a tough lesson. Suddenly, Mike Sanders himself pushed through Tonight Show security and walked onto the stage accosting Page. Revisionist historian Sanders asked if Page was afraid to face him without tub-of-lard Bam Bam Bigelow at his side. Leno stepped in and attempted to calm the Undeniable one down, but Sanders shoved Leno out of the way and proceeded to kick Page below the belt! Sanders then drove Page's head into the top of Leno's desk several times and then took Page out of commission with his signature "3.0" maneuver. A man possessed, Sanders was finally dragged off of the set by NBC security. Perhaps Mr. Sanders would be able to score the upset victory -- by whatever means necessary -- on Sunday night.
Freakzilla Freaks Out
Scott Steiner's paranoia over who Torrie Wilson would bring to face him at the Clash of the Champions led him to perpetrate an intense, unprovoked attack on Norman Smiley on the 5/17 edition of Nitro. One week later, Norman Smiley would have his shot in the ring against Big Poppa Pump, seconded as usual by Stacy. Of course, this made Smiley's position more unenviable than anything else. The Big Bad Booty Daddy tore through Smiley, manhandling him with belly-to-bellies, Steinerlines, and even the old Steiner Screwdriver. Smiley was unconscious by the time the crippling Steiner Recliner was locked on.
As Steiner and Stacy talked trash into the camera, threatening the Genetic Freak's mystery opponent, Torrie appeared on the NitroVision from the locker room. She just happened to be wearing a skin-tight workout getup, and told the Power Couple that she was looking forward to the Clash of the Champions. She acknowledged some of the speculation about the identity of the man she'd hand-picked to face Big Poppa Pump. Was it Kevin Nash? After all, he was the man who broke her into the business. What about Shane Douglas? They had a history, too. Or maybe she'd dig up a ghost from Scotty's past: his brother Rick, or perhaps Buff Daddy himself, Buff Bagwell. Torrie said she couldn't spoil the secret -- but guaranteed that she'd found someone just as dangerous as Big Poppa Pump to face him on pay per view! Steiner and Stacy didn't appear to like the sound of this at all.
When Worlds Collide
It'll be Old School vs. Extreme on Sunday night when Jeff Jarrett and Rob Van Dam finally face off. In preparation for that match, a special video feature on RVD aired on Nitro, featuring a series of awe-inspiring in-ring highlights of Mr. Thursday Night's work as well as comments from Van Dam on Jarrett. "RVD 4:20 says I'm gonna smoke your ass in three days," RVD said at the conclusion of the piece.
Jeff Jarrett then came to the ring for his match with Super Crazy. The week before, Super Crazy had teamed with former ECW colleague Van Dam against Jarrett stooges Juventud Guerrera and Psicosis. Before the start of the contest, Jarrett snatched a mic from David Penzer and, after disowning his hometown crowd, denounced the aforementioned RVD video as "trash" that should never have made it to air. Jarrett reminded RVD that he was a nobody in WCW. "I've got all the Stroke around here, Slapnutz. You couldn't beat Juventud and Psicosis last week, and you sure as hell don't stand a chance against me on Sunday night." Super Crazy shut Jarrett up by throwing a dropkick to start the match. The luchadore used his unlimited aerial arsenal effectively against heavyweight Jarrett, scoring nearfalls after both a crossbody block and a headscissors takedown. Jarrett turned the tide by countering a Super Crazy dive from the top rope with a jawbreaker using his knee; Styles theorized that the move may indeed have shattered Super's jawbone. Jarrett applied the Stroke and picked up the victory. But he wasn't finished yet. As Super Crazy favored his mandibula, Jarrett grabbed him and tied his arms up in the top and middle ring rope. He then grabbed his guitar and planned to shatter it in the usual fashion over Super Crazy's head. Fortunately, RVD hit the ring and took Jarrett down with a stepover heel kick. RVD tended to the injured Super Crazy while Jarrett, in retreat, pointed to his guitar, hinting that he intended for the weapon to come into play at the Clash.
Unfortunate Turn of Events or Deliberate Deception?
World Championship Wrestling brought Cruiserweight wrestling to the United States and continues to promote the style as no other promotion can. Nitro this week, for instance, was set to feature Jeff Hardy vs. "Solo" Shannon Moore in singles competition. Backstage prior to the match, a woozy Lita informed Jeff and Matt that she would be unable to appear at ringside this week due to a headache. The Hardyz urged her to relax and headed to the ring for Jeff's match. Shannon was accompanied by Jimmy Hart, who is managing all of Moore's professional pursuits. At ringside, Hart handed Joey Styles a press release announcing the upcoming debut of Shannon's new single. Things then got underway in the ring. The in-ring styles of Jeff and Shannon are quite similar, and as a result their match was especially compelling. When Hart started making noise up on the apron with his megaphone, Matt decided to prevent any trouble before it could unfold by pulling Hart off the apron and sending him down onto the concrete, posterior-first. Meanwhile, Moore scored a two-count following a jumping legdrop. Styles then reported a commotion in the back, and on the split-screen, Kai En Tai's TAKA and Funaki could be seen harassing Lita! "Once you go Jap, you never go back," Funaki offered, in broken English. Moments later, Rey Mysterio and Kidman came to ringside to inform Matt of what his girlfriend was being subjected to in the back. Matt was confused; when Jeff noticed the ringside conference taking place, he moved over to the far corner of the ring to be filled in. Being coached by Hart, Shannon exploited Jeff's weakness by sneaking up on him, turning him around, and hitting him with a Northern Lights Suplex and bridge. It was enough to give Moore the upset victory! Jeff was disconcerted by the loss, but was more concerned about Lita. He and Matt promptly headed backstage to check on her, with the Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions in tow. A cynical Jerry Lawler questioned Mysterio and Kidman's tactics. If they were so concerned about Lita, why didn't they simply intervene with Kai En Tai themselves? And how would Matt and Jeff feel about the whole thing once they'd had time to reflect? Answers would presumably be forthcoming at the Clash when the three teams would vie for the Cruiserweight straps!
FINAL Clash of the Champions Card [3 Days Away!]
• World Heavyweight Title: Booker T © vs. Goldberg
• Sting vs. Kurt Angle
• Torrie's Choice: Big Poppa Pump (w/Stacy Keibler) vs. ??? (w/Torrie Wilson)
• WCW US Heavyweight Title: Booker T © vs. Kanyon
• WCW World Tag Team Titles: NC-17 © vs. The Impact Playaz (w/Dawn Marie)
• "Undeniable" Mike Sanders vs. Diamond Dallas Page
• "The Chosen One" Jeff Jarrett vs. Rob Van Dam
• WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Titles: Rey Mysterio & Billy Kidman © vs. The Hardy Boyz (w/Lita) vs. Kai En Tai
• And "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair confronts "The American Dream" and Executive Committee Head, Dusty Rhodes!
In addition, Styles announced that WCW would be debuting its new weekend Shockwave broadcast Sunday evening for free on the TVGuide channel with pre-game action prior to the Clash!
Match Results(1) Jeff Jarrett d. Super Crazy
(2) Big Poppa Pump (w/Stacy) d. Norman Smiley
(3) Sting d. Cael Sanderson (w/Kurt Angle)
(4) "Solo" Shannon Moore (w/Jimmy Hart) d. Jeff Hardy (w/Matt Hardy)
(5) Ric Flair & Chris Kanyon & Shawn Stasiak & Impact Playaz (w/Dawn Marie) d. Booker T & Goldberg & Mike Awesome & NC-17
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Monday, 05/21/01
Minneapolis, MN
Hosted by Jim Ross & Paul Heyman
STONE COLD TO ROCK: KNOW YOUR ROLE AND SHUT YOUR MOUTH!
The Rock's big news was revealed a few segments into the broadcast this week when the Great One made his way to the ring and greeted the People of Minneapolis. Rock recounted in dramatic fashion his triumphant win last week with Kane against Stone Cold and Triple H within the confines of a steel cage. Rock said that Stone Cold and the Coalition would surely want to forget what happened, but the millions -- and millions -- of Rock's fans would remember. The WWF Board of Directors remembered, too; turns out they'd left a message on the People's Answering Machine while the Great One was enjoying a slice or two of pie a la mode over the weekend. They were so impressed by what they saw last Monday night that they'd already decided what they wanted to see at King of the Ring. They wanted to see the Rock lay the smack down. They wanted to see Stone Cold Steve Austin beaten from pillar to post. They wanted to see the return of the People's Champ! But Rock said he told the committee that he couldn't promise them he'd be content to limit himself to the traditional rules of the ring; he would have more in store of Stone Cold's candyass than armdrags and chinlocks. It apparently wasn't a problem for the committee, because they'd proceeded to hand him everything he wanted on a silver platter. Specifically, they gave him a Falls Count Anywhere match against Stone Cold Steve Austin for the World Wrestling Federation Championship at King of the Ring! It didn't take long for Stone Cold to react to the news; he came to the ring with Debra. Insisting that his wife hold the microphone for him, Stone Cold declared the signing of the match "a load of crap." The Rock wasn't fit to wax Mr. McMahon's car, let along challenge Stone Cold for the WWF Title. Stone Cold instructed Debra to hand him one of his imported beers. Rock told Stone Cold that if he was so opposed to the idea of checking into the smackdown hotel at King of the Ring, they could settle this sumbitch tonight, live on RAW. Rock said he would start by taking Stone Cold's $50 bottle of beer, turn it sideways, and stick it straight up his candyass. Debra couldn't help but crack a smile, and a disgusted Austin sent her to the back. Austin told Rock he would come down to the ring and kick his teeth in -- if he were a lesser man. But considering that he had the grace and poise of a Vincent Kennedy McMahon, he would restrain himself. Austin said Rock had always been second best, and that nothing would change at KOTR. Rock then set the stage for KOTR and his inevitable title win, and the crowd chanted, "Rocky, Rocky, Rocky," in accordance with his narration. Having heard enough, Stone Cold turned his back and walked out, keeping a firm grasp on the WWF Championship belt. JR and Heyman reacted to the news of the big KOTR main event.
Back from commercial backstage, Austin paced and Mr. McMahon asked him what he planned to do. Stone Cold then happened to notice the Right to Censor contingent across the room. They were discarding copies of the latest WWF Divas magazine. Stone Cold approached them. Steven Richards praised Stone Cold for his recent change in attitude, expressing his opinion that Austin was a champion the WWF could be proud of. Austin appreciated Richards's remarks, and then asked the RTC leader if he'd heard the vulgarities that had spewed forth from the mouth of the Rock earlier. Richards agreed with Austin: Rock was a major source if not the principal source of the immorality that was plaguing the WWF. "He's always talking about excrement," Val Venis observed. "And orifices," added Goodfather. Buchanan and Ivory nodded in disgust. Richards said it was high time the RTC took a public stand against Rock. Richards noted that Goodfather knew Rock well, and assigned him the task of ridding the World Wrestling Federation of the toxin that is the Rock tonight. Goodfather told Richards and Austin to consider it done. JR noted that Austin had just ensured that Right to Censor's next crusade would be directed straight at The Rock!
Goodfather later came to the ring for the match. Before Rock's entrance, Goodfather took the mic and talked about how his life had changed for the better since he'd stepped off the Ho Train for the last time. He called Rock out for his opportunity to see the light. Rock entered. Goodfather asked him if he would reevaluate things -- if he would rededicate himself to being the positive role model he could so easily be. Rock didn't address the question and instead suggested that it hadn't been Steven Richards's propaganda that led Goodfather to make a life change, but rather that it had been the gonorrhea. Goodfather was scandalized and took a shot at Rock. Rock blocked the punch and the match got underway. Despite Rock's early success, the bigger man enjoyed a string of offense that included power slams and a nasty legdrop. Goodfather choked Rock in the corner, suggesting that he apologize for all of the corrupting venom he's spewed. Rock responded with the international symbol for "up yours," which further enraged the censor. Goodfather whipped Rock hard into the corner and set up for the move formerly known as the Ho Train and now being called "The Sanitizer." Rock got a boot up at the last minute, though, successfully countering the attempted splash. Goodfather stood up but received an ambitious slam by the Rock. Rock then hit the People's DDT. Goodfather had a little steam left, but that was taken care of by the Rock Bottom. The elbowpads came off, and-- People's Elbow! 1, 2, 3. Rock celebrated his victory by posing on the top turnbuckle. RTC members Richards, Venis, and Buchanan soon stormed the ring, however. Rock took on all four censors while he could but was eventually overcome. Stone Cold Steve Austin then came to the ring and the RTC held Rock while Austin brazenly slapped the Great One across the face. "What does your little Board of Directors think of you know, you piece of trash?" Austin taunted. Austin delivered a Stunner to the limp Rock. As RAW concluded, while Ivory passed around non-alcoholic beers, Austin stood at mid-ring holding his championship belt over a fallen Rock.
SCHISMS, SIBLINGS, AND SINS
Backstage at RAW, the Radicalz sat down to a group meal in order to resolve the tension that had arisen between them the week before. Latino Heat seemed more interested in discussing the finer points of arroz con pollo with Saturn and Malenko than he did actually addressing their issues. A further complication arose when Raven approached the table. Eddie suggested that Raven move along, but the Noxious Nonconformist couldn't help but observe to Saturn and Malenko what a shame it was. Curious, Saturn and Malenko asked Raven what he was talking about. Raven reminded Saturn of how he had had the testicular fortitude to walk away from him when he (Raven) was holding him down in WCW. Raven noted that it was happening all over again and yet Saturn didn't even realize it. Eddie took exception to the implication that he was exploiting Saturn and Malenko. Saturn and Malenko wondered if Raven was right, and walked away from Eddie in order to ponder the question. Eddie followed them in an attempt to reassure them. Raven seemed satisfied by what he had accomplished. He was then approached by Triple H and Mr. McMahon, who continue to be thick as thieves. McMahon informed Raven that he would be claiming that Hardcore Title shot against Kane later that night, whether Raven liked it or not. The Game wished Raven the best of luck, and even did Raven the courtesy of bringing him a box of items he might find useful later on. The box contained such handy hardcore items as golf clubs, hockey sticks, hubcaps, and a stereo. Raven accepted the donation and left. Roving reporter Michael Cole then approached the father- and son-in-law and asked where Shawn Michaels was this week -- and if his absence had anything to do with the strong suggestion made by the Undertaker the week before that he had HBK in his sights. Triple H lambasted Michael Cole for his presumptuousness and clarified the situation. Shawn Michaels, HHH explained, had to cope every day of his life with the devastating effects of the back injury that forced him to retire from active competition. Just last week, for example, Michaels suffered a setback while out for a simple jog. As a result, Michaels was at home attempting to rehab this week. "I'll be sure to let him know how concerned you were, Cole," HHH spat.
Later, when Vince settled in to watch the Hardcore Title match on a monitor backstage, associates Brisco and Patterson approached and asked Mr. McMahon what had become of Paul Bearer; had he bailed out on them? McMahon told the stooges that Paul had dropped the ball and that the Coalition would be going forward with its efforts to eliminate Bearer's son, with or without his support. Had Bearer walked out for good last week? Would Kane and the Undertaker be satisfied with his simply fading back into the woodwork?
Raven entered first for the Hardcore Match and was followed by champion Kane. When Kane reached the ringside area, Raven leapt from the top turnbuckle down to the floor, nailing Kane in the head with one of the hubcaps provided by Triple H. Kane was on his knees by the ringsteps, and so Raven hit him with a dropkick to the head, causing Kane's skull to bounce off the steps. The match would proceed in such a violent fashion. Raven moved to nail Kane in the head with a hockey stick, but Kane blocked the shot, broke the stick on two, and drove the two pieces simultaneously into the side of Raven's head. Back in the ring, Raven begged for mercy when Kane planned to bring a chair down onto Raven's head. Raven seized an opening and grabbed Kane down below with a pair of grilling tongs. Raven dropped Kane head first onto the chair. He attempted a DDT onto said chair but Kane instead picked Raven up and slammed him right on top of it. Kane signaled for a chokeslam, and JR was sure Kane was on his way to retaining the title. But, in a shocking moment, Shawn Michaels hopped over the ringside barrier, made his way into the ring, and gave Kane Sweet Chin Music. Michaels then rolled Raven on top of the unconscious Kane; all of this was, of course, perfectly legal under Hardcore rules. Mike Chiota counted the three, and Raven regained the Hardcore Championship! JR couldn't believe that Triple H had lied about Shawn Michaels's condition. It was all a setup, and we had a new Hardcore Champion! Dammit! HBK flashed his cocky smile. Business picked up when The Undertaker appeared at the entrance and, as he had done at the conclusion of the previous week's RAW, slowly but steadily made his way ringside. Despicable HBK hopped back over the barrier and retreated up into the crowd. Undertaker watched. He checked on his brother and helped him to his feet, and then obtained a microphone. HBK had disappeared by this time. "This goes no further," Undertaker said. "Shawn, one thing is very clear to me. You're just itching to step back into the ring, aren't you, boy? The answer seems natural. The Undertaker and Kane against Triple H and Shawn Michaels at King of the Ring. The ball's in your court, Michaels. But in considering your answer, you might want to keep in mind that my brother and I? We won't take 'no' for an answer." The challenge had been laid down! Would Shawn Michaels return to the ring after over three years of inactivity? Would it go down in a monumental tag team match at KOTR?!
Prior to his KOTR Qualifying Match, "The One" Billy Gunn was kind enough to pay a visit to the production truck, where he dropped off a special video package he'd had put together documenting his road to KOTR victory in 1999. Gunn planned to recreate the magic in 2001. He faced Eddie Guerrero in one of eight Qualifying Matches. The sixteen contenders for this year's crown were chosen at random. Guerrero appeared to be preoccupied heading into his match, still upset about Raven's having stirred up a hornet's nest among the Radicalz. When Gunn scored a 2.9 count following a piledriver, though, Guerrero got with the program and got himself back into the match; he almost pinned The One with a German Suplex and bridge. Guerrero's mental state was simply not conducive to a victory, though. He missed a slingshot senton splash, and when he pulled himself up to a vertical base, Gunn was waiting with the Fameasser and scored the pin to advance! Gunn's post-match celebratory mood was ruined when he realized the fans weren't quite as enthused over his victory as he appeared to be. Meanwhile, Guerrero was close to breaking down in tears; he simply couldn't fathom that he'd lost. Latino Heat got a mic from Lilian Garcia and pleaded with referee Jack Doan to restart the match. "All I'm asking for is a do-over, holmes," appealed Eddie. Doan was not feeling overly sympathetic, though, and made it clear that his decision would stand. As he walked to the back, Eddie flared his nostrils and looked into the camera. The suggestion was clearly that he blamed someone in particular for the circumstances leading to his loss...
While Faarooq prepared for his Qualifyer, tag team partner Bradshaw was busy giving CNBC personality Joe Kernan a tour of the backstage area. Market-savvy Bradshaw has appeared many times as a guest financial analyst on Kernan's Squawk Box television program. Faarooq locked up with Saturn, who had Dean Malenko in his corner for the important KOTR opening round match. Faarooq took out what seemed to be pent up frustration on Saturn early on with a series of stiff clotheslines and a spinebuster that shook the ring. When he set Saturn up for a powerbomb, Dean Malenko popped up on the apron and, sure enough, Faarooq abandoned the attempted bomb in order to chase Malenko off. Saturn sent Faarooq down with a side kick and went on the offensive. Faarooq battled back later by sending Saturn down with a shoulder block for two. Faarooq hit a big boot, and then set the Radical up for the Dominator! Faarooq was close enough to the apron, though, to allow Malenko to grab his foot and trip him. Faarooq dropped Saturn, who quickly caught Faarooq in the Moss Covered Three Handled Family Credenza. Saturn picked up the win, thanks in no small part to his fellow Radical. The outcome might have been different had Faarooq's own tag team partner not been so busy schmoozing with a television personality...
MADNESS
The results of Goldust's Commissioner-mandated psychiatric evaluation seemed dubious right from the start on RAW this week. Backstage, Goldust was adjusting his wig prior to his KOTR Qualifyer when William Regal and Terri approached him and introduced him to psychiatrist Dr. Cohen. Goldust proceeded to peel and consume a banana. Regal, Terri, and Dr. Cohen watched intently. Goldust then shrugged. "Sometimes a banana's just a banana, doc," he said. Cohen questioned Goldust about his childhood and more specifically about his mother. Goldust's responses were characteristically cryptic. After Goldust excused himself, Regal pointed out to Cohen that Goldust's mental faculties were obviously not in tact. Cohen was interested in what the Intercontinental Champion had to say. "Tell me why you think that is," the psychiatrist asked. Regal was more than happy to share his insights with the doctor.
Goldust's in-ring opposition was provided by Hardcore Holly. Molly was notably absent from her cousin's corner during the match, perhaps as a result of earlier events (see below). Holly was aggressive as usual. He dropkicked Goldust into the corner at one point and executed a hanging vertical suplex for the two count. Soon, though, Goldust reversed an Irish Whip and sent Holly into the corner. After nailing ten mounted punches with the crowd counting along, Goldust drilled Holly with a Bulldog. The Curtain Call followed, and Goldust advanced! Regal then immediately appeared with Terri and Dr. Cohen. Regal congratulated Goldust on his victory in a perfunctory manner and then revealed that Dr. Cohen had concluded his evaluation. Goldust asked Cohen what he thought. The doctor labeled Goldust an eccentric individual -- colorful. But he said Goldust had clearly found positive ways to balance his id, ego, and superego. Regal and Terri could hardly believe what they were hearing. Things went from bad to worse when Cohen turned to Regal and told the commissioner he wasn't quite so confident about Regal's emotional well-being. Regal's preoccupation with Goldust's mental state was likely a defense mechanism on Regal's part. Cohen suspected that Regal was battling some serious demons and would face serious consequences without professional help! Cohen took Regal by the arm and told him he wanted to discuss possible treatment options backstage. Regal and Terri protested in disbelief while Goldust looked on with satisfaction from the ring. To say that the Intercontinental Champion and Commissioner's plan had backfired would be an understatement!
RECING HAVOC
RAW got underway with the explosion of the Dudley Boyz's music, and Bubba Ray and D-Von came to the ring. The brothers from other mothers relieved their victory over the RTC of the week before, and Bubba Ray noted that the question was what was next for the greatest tag team in the World Wrestling Federation today. It occurred to him and to D-Von that they had unfinished business with Edge and Christian -- with the World Wrestling Federation Tag Team Champions. "As far as we're concerned, those are our belts, and we want them back," Bubba said. D-Von gave a "testify!" for tradition's sake. Edge and Christian appeared on the Titantron and expressed their surprise at seeing Bubba Ray and D-Von. "We thought you two preferred Sunday Night Heat these days," Edge cracked. But Christian said it was good to see the ol' "chumpstainzzz" again. He was surprised, though, that they wanted yet another match with E&C. "Haven't we kinda established our undisputed awesomeness by now? I mean, our record against you does sorta speak for itself. How many times have we beaten you now? 37,494 and a half, isn't it?" Edge and Christian agreed, though, that if Those Sucktackular Dudleyz truly wanted another shot, they had the perfect solution: the Dudleyz could face the self-proclaimed Kings of the World on RAW in order to determine who would get the next brush with greatness -- the next shot at E&C. Bubba and D-Von did not hesitate to accept the challenge.
When Jericho and Benoit came to the ring during the WarZone for the match, Jericho officially kicked off RAW is JERICHO. Jericho said he and Benoit liked the Dudleyz as much as the next guys, but there was really no contest. The Rabid Wolverine nodded. "The Crippler Crossface owns the 3D," he said. Jericho reminded Benoit of the efficacy of the Walls of Jericho, too. While the banter continued, the Dudleyz' entrance began and then things got underway. Two of the top tag teams currently active in the sport put on a superior display here. Jericho and D-Von started. After taking a flying clothesline, Jericho tagged in Benoit. When Benoit caught D-Von in the Crossface, Bubba broke up the submission. Bubba was tagged in and punished Benoit for a few minutes until being caught in a backslide for a nearfall. When Jericho was tagged in, he bulldogged Bubba and then hit the Lionsault. Soon, Bubba caught Jericho in a powerslam. The tag was made to D-Von, who hit the Whazzup Headbutt. The pinfall was prevented by Benoit. D-Von went back to work on Jericho, who hit an Enziguri and then the Triple Powerbomb. Jericho made the tag to Benoit, who knocked Bubba off the apron and then caught D-Von in the three Germans. Swandive heatbutt! As he went for the cover, Edge, Christian, and their constant companion Rhyno stormed the ring and began attacking all four competitors indiscriminately. The match was thrown out. As the pier six persisted, JR couldn't help but wonder if the result hadn't been E&C's master plan all along!
SPARE THE PADDLE AND SPOIL THE DIVA
Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley remained in her neckbrace and wheelchair-bound this week on RAW despite the fact that her apparently-infirm condition had actually been exposed as fraudulent the week before. Stephanie was literally being spoon-fed by an attendant in her private dressing room when Ivory paid her friend a visit to express some concerns. Ivory had allegedly been "personally offended" by the sight of Chyna and Trish Stratus rolling around in the mud on the previous week's broadcast, and Stephanie ended up concurring: the mud match had been a horrifying spectacle. The women conveniently omitted to mention that the entire affair had been Mr. McMahon's brainchild. Stephanie shared that she had long suspected Trish of exhibitionism, ever since the hussy had slithered her way into her father's bed not long ago. Stephanie concluded that what Trish needed was discipline, and she felt Ivory was the perfect person to provide it. Tonight on RAW, Steph declared, it would be the first ever Paddle on the Pole match. A paddle perfect for spanking would be suspended on a pole. Whichever competitor secured the paddle first and delivered a spanking to her opponent would be declared the winner. It would be Trish vs. Ivory, and Stephanie was sure that Ivory would prevail.
For the second week in a row, Trish played the unenviable card she'd been dealt and met Ivory in the ring for the match. A nasty Ivory used eye rakes, boot chokes, and hair pulls to weaken Trish. After flinging Trish halfway across the ring by her hair, Ivory climbed the turnbuckle in the hope of reaching the all-important paddle. Trish followed Ivory, however, and caught up to her on the top rope. Stratus delivered an impressive belly to back suplex from the top rope! Trish instinctively went for the cover and referee Jim Cordaris reminded her that pinfalls were irrelevant in this particular match. Valuable time had been wasted; when Trish finally turned and was on her way to the corner to climb in pursuit of the battle, Ivory had gotten up and dropkicked Trish from behind. She DDTed Trish. Ivory again went for the paddle. Trish got up in time to turn Ivory around and set her up for a successful Stratusfaction. With Ivory out cold, Trish climbed to the top rope and grabbed the paddle! Ivory got up and lunged at Trish back at mid-ring, but Trish used a drop toehold to send her opponent back down to the mat. After asking for and receiving the crowd's enthusiastic approval, Trish pulled down Ivory's RTC-regulation slacks and hauled off and spanked her with the paddle three times. Cordaris called for the bell, and Trish was declared the winner! As the triumphant Trish made her way back down the aisle, the sour Stephanie appeared on the ramp in her wheelchair and then went into kamikaze mode, driving herself and, more importantly, her wheelchair right into Trish, knocking her down! Stephanie signaled for Ivory to get the battle. Ivory did just that, bringing it outside and preparing to return the favor Trish had done for her. Thankfully, though, Women's Champion Chyna appeared and caused the bitch on wheels and her comrade to scatter. Chyna and Cordaris tended to Trish.
Backstage after the break, Stephanie pouted to her father than Chyna's dangerous obsession with her had now gone too far; she feared for her safety -- her very life. She needed protection. Vince agreed, and stated that by this time next week, the problem will have been addressed!
TWO COUSINS' CONCERNS
Last week, Molly Holly had caught the eye of Haku when she showed off her assets, having won a scheduled Bikini Contest against Debra via forfeit. Just prior to his KOTR Qualifyer this week, Haku approached Molly in the back and, in a barely intelligible manner, asked Molly for a good luck kiss beforehand. The radar of overprotective Molly's cousins Hardcore and Crash must have gone off, as they quickly appeared and made it clear for the second week in a row that they were not amused by Haku's interest in Molly.
Veteran Haku, a former King of the Ring and tag team partner of Andre the Giant, had Rhyno to contend with in opening round action this year. This was the Man Beast's first KOTR tournament, and he was evidently motivated when he stepped into the ring with Haku. The two brawlers engaged in what JR described as "a good, old-fashioned slobberknocker." They exchange stiff punches and kicks. Rhyno scored a two-count after a sidewalk slam on the Tongan monster. Haku wasn't down for the count yet, as he staggered Rhyno with a big boot to the face. Rhyno was backed into the corner, where Haku hit a series of his well-renowned chops. His more "unorthodox" side emerged as he went on to bite Rhyno's forehead. When Rhyno stumbled out of the corner, Haku caught him with the Tongan Death Grip. Rhyno fell to his knees, but before buckling completely he rallied. Powering back up to a vertical base, he whipped Haku into the ropes and slammed him. Rhyno then crouched in the corner; the crowd was on its feet when Rhyno connected with the Gore and scored the convincing pinfall. Rhyno headed to the back, having advanced in the first round of the tournament. The male Holly cousins took advantage of the opportunity created by Rhyno; they hit the ring and stomped a mudhole in Haku just in case he hadn't received the message regarding Molly backstage.
A PERFECT PEPTALK
World Wrestling Federation alum Mr. Perfect was backstage at RAW this week; the show was, after all, being held in his hometown. As he took a nostalgic stroll backstage, he couldn't happen but take note of an aimless Test's gloom. Test explained to the former Intercontinental Champion that he'd had a string of bad luck since losing the European Championship, and hadn't even been booked for the show this week. Without hesitation, Perfect offered Test some sage advice: he had to be aggressive, and he had to do whatever it took, period. Test shrugged as if to say, "easier said than done." Caught up in the big time atmosphere of the World Wrestling Federation, Perfect said he might be able to help. He said he was enjoying his retirement, which consisted chiefly of gold and Coronas with lime. But he could put off his next trip to Cabo San Lucas one extra week to help a rookie out. He said he thought he still had a connection or two in the back, and would see what he could do about getting Test a KOTR Qualifying Match on next week's RAW. Perking up, Test responded with enthusiasm. Gum-chewing Perfect claimed it would be a pleasure to help.
Announced King of the Ring Card for 06/24/01
• World Wrestling Federation Championship/Falls Count Anywhere: "Stone Cold" Steve Austin © vs. The Rock
• King of the Ring Tournament Semi-Finals and Final
Match Results(1) King of the Ring Qualifier: Rhyno d. Haku
(2) King of the Ring Qualifier: Saturn (w/Dean Malenko) d. Faarooq
(3) King of the Ring Qualifier: Billy Gunn d. Eddie Guerrero
(4) Paddle on a Pole Match: Trish Stratus d. Ivory
(5) Kings of the World nc. The Dudley Boyz
(6) Hardcore Title Match: Raven d. Kane © to capture the title
(7) King of the Ring Qualifier: Goldust d. Hardcore Holly (w/Molly Holly)
(8) The Rock d. The Goodfather
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Smackdown!: Brock-Team Angle is proceeding as it should. Some kind of ally for Brock might add something. Still crossing my fingers that Judgment Day won't just come down to the Legdrop and pin where Hogan/Show is concerned. Cena's promo was an "ugh" moment. Eddie stealing the bling is in-character and could provide some good material. Hardy's announcement about next week's title match played out perfectly. The Cruiserweight scene continues to be the highlight of Smackdown! for me. I hope the FBI'll be rehabbed over the next coupld of weeks. Liking O'Haire's routine.
Backlash predix:
*Booker T upsets Triple H. Booker's reign might not last long, but I think the evening'll end on a high note.
*Rock over Goldberg to set up a return match. These two can and should pop more than one buyrate.
*Jericho and Christian over Nash and Michaels. There's nothing to be gained from giving Nash and HBK the win.
*RVD and Kane aren't ready to drop the titles yet.
*Bischoff over Stone Cold. I'd imagine Eric has an ace up his sleeve and that revenge will come down the line for Austin.
*Steiner over Hardy as Big Poppa Pump's push continues.
*Orton will start the night off on the right foot for Evolution with a win.
*Trish retains as her title reign gains more legitimacy.
And I think the Fourway Elimination match'll kick things off.
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-Strong opener. Rey had to win, but the finish managed to keep Finlay strong as well. It would've been fun to see him do a post-match beatdown of some kind, of course.
-I'll admit that I have a hard time with the New Blood concept just because it's so hard to imagine WWE actually bringing in Daniels, Joe, Punk, and Cabana (particularly all together) and pushing them, but I like how you're writing each of the characters. It's fun seeing them slowly integrating themselves into the 'fabric' of SD!
-I'm glad you went with the Melina turn. I would have been tempted to have left the finish ambiguous (leaving the possibility that Melina's botch had been accidental) and then pull the trigger on Smackdown! a week or two later, but the feud should continue to be strong, anyway.
-The Booker/Hardy match should generate more heat for Booker. Holly as Booker's sidekick might be a good spot for him. I am missing Sharmell.
-Daniels going over is good news for the Cruiserweight division, I think. Nice to see the Vertebreaker back, too.
-I appreciate that you're trying to use everyone and wanted to protect Regal from a total sacrifice, but it probably would've been best to give Batista the clean win here.
-The finish to Lashley/JBL would've been a better way to have ended a TV match. If I'd paid for the GAB, a countout finish to a title match would've pissed me off. That said, the eventual payoff should be good.
-Surprised to see the Mexicools go over. Wondering where the two teams'll go next...
-Kennedy-Taker had the right ending. My hope is that Ken'll continue to occupy a solid, upper-midcard place on the card and that we have to wait a while for Undertaker to return to get his win back.
-Nice to see the renewal of a Flair/Benoit alliance. Lots of possibilities there (including, of course, the reformation of a certain stable). I'm not clear on how/why Flair was able to assume the position of referee during the match, but hopefully that'll be explained on Smackdown!
All in all, a very solid show. Thumbs up.
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This Week's Wrestling Spectator News and Notes
TOP STORY: The Hogan/Bischoff/Universal group is planning to begin taping shows in July. They have secured an 8-week clearance on FOX starting in August. If the 8-week series performs well enough, the program will be added to the regular lineup. Vince McMahon has instructed Jim Ross to make signing away potential Hogan/Bischoff hires to long-term WWFE deals a priority. Ultimate Warrior, Roddy Piper, Vader, Jake Roberts, Lex Luger, Sid Eudy, The Road Warriors, Greg Valentine, The Rock 'n Roll Express, Bob Backlund, The Harris Brothers, Nikita Koloff, Larry Zbyszko, Steve Corino, Brian James, and Ted DiBiase are all said to be among the names that have already been signed by Hogan and Bischoff. Needless to say, their approach is going to be to rely on brand names to draw viewership. Bischoff is working to repair Hogan's relationship with Randy Savage in the hopes of bringing Savage into the promotion.
Ratings:
- The cage match main event on RAW was enough to keep viewership steady; the show did a 6.8 rating.
- Nitro's composite climbed back up to 5.4 (+.1). The plan is to continue building primarily around Ric Flair, Goldberg, and Booker T for the time being.
- Norman Smiley has been signed to a 2-year contract. Jimmy Hart, who is also working as a road agent, has signed a 6-month performer's contract. Hart had been working with Bischoff and Hogan on the Universal startup but was made too tempting an offer by WWFE. Smiley, Hart, Bam Bam Bigelow, Shannon Moore, and Dusty Rhodes have all been added to the WCW.com Stars page.
- Grand Masta Sexay has been removed from WWF.com's roster in accordance with the angle that played out on RAW. Brian Lawler remains under contract to WWFE. It is unclear whether he's been taken off the road for disciplinary reasons, to rehab an injury, or to head to OVW or elsewhere. Scotty 2 Hotty will likely be repackaged as a singles wrestler.
- More developmental signings to report: Kim Neilson, who has worked for Dusty Rhodes's TCW, has started at OVW. WWFE has also signed Veronica Stevens (the sole female graduate of Shawn Michaels's wrestling school) and former WCW valets Sharmell "Paisley" Sullivan and Shannon "Daffney" Spruill to development deals.
- The WWF creative team has finalized its card for King of the Ring on 6/24 and has tentative plans in place for top matches at SummerSlam, as well.
TV previews for next week:
- RAW: WWF.com indicates that the show will be built around the first four of eight total King of the Ring qualifying matches. As far as the main event scene goes, Rock will be at RAW with "huge news" coming on the heels of his and Kane's cage victory last week. Also, Goldust will go through his psychological evaluation backstage at the show.
- Nitro: The Clash will be three days away by the time Nitro arrives. WCW.com is hyping that Dusty Rhodes was outraged by the fiasco that unfolded at the conclusion of last week's show and has booked an "unprecedented" main event for Nitro as a result. Also, Kurt Angle has a "special challenge" for Sting. Scott Steiner (w/Stacy) vs. Norman Smiley has been announced, as well.
Off-camera...
- At RAW, Darius (Kevin Fertig) d. Crash Holly in a pre-show darkmatch. After RAW: Rock, Undertaker, and Kane cleaned house of the Coalition.
- At Nitro, Norman Smiley d. Michael Modest in a pre-show darkmatch. Post-show, Booker T beat Ric Flair and Goldberg in a quick Triple Threat match.
This week's house show results:
•WWF
- APA d. Val Venis & Steven Richards
- Scotty 2 Hotty d. Dean Malenko
- Kevin Fertig d. Crash Holly
- Rhyno d. Billy Gunn
- Raven d. Eddie Guerrero by disqualification
- Goldust & Trish Stratus d. William Regal & Terri
- Edge & Christian d. Kings of the World & The Dudleyz in Triple Threat Matches
- Chyna d. Ivory
- Bros. of Destruction d. Stone Cold & Triple H
•WCW
- The Hardyz (w/Lita) d. Juvi & Psicosis and Kaientai to earn a shot at Kidman & Mysterio later on
- Disqo d. Shannon Moore (w/Jimmy Hart)
- NC-17 & Mike Awesome d. Impact Playaz (w/Dawn Marie) & The Bull
- Torrie d. Stacy in Bikini Contests
- Rob Van Dam & Diamond Dallas Page d. Jeff Jarrett & Mike Sanders
- Big Poppa Pump (w/Stacy) d. Hugh Morrus
- Goldberg d. Kanyon & Shawn Stasiak in Handicap Matches
- Kidman & Mysterio d. The Hardyz (w/Lita)
- Booker T & Sting d. Ric Flair & Kurt Angle
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Chris Benoit vs. Kurt Angle: Benoit's reign continues as he puts Angle away with the Anklelock. The potential would then exist for a gimmick blowoff match of some sort.
Mr. Kennedy vs. Undertaker: Kennedy gets the rub. Taker can disappear for a while after being buried and then return to get his win back, potentially at SummerSlam (although that seems a bit too soon).
Mexicools vs. Noble/Kash: I'm thinking Noble and Kash will go over as you try to position them as tag title contenders.
Lashley vs. JBL: I think there's more heat to be placed on JBL by having him retain, particularly at the GAB. There's still mileage to be gotten out of Lashley pursuing the chase.
Batista vs. Regal: I'm expecting this to be a Batista squash designed to be a simple showcase for the returning Animal. Who better to bump for him than Regal?
Matt Hardy vs. Booker T: I do think Matt will overcome the odds. This could take him to the next level. In other words, he needs the win more than Booker does. As an aside, I think you made the right move by taking Holly out of the match itself.
Double Elimination Round Robin: I kinda see Daniels being positioned as the centerpiece of the division. It would make sense for him to pick up the win in the match that was his brainchild.
London & Kendrick vs. Nitro & Mercury: I, too, think Melina will turn once more, helping Nitro & Mercury regain the titles. MNM is still too fresh to do away with just yet. The swerve would also light a fire under London & Kendrick and help build their characters and push.
Mysterio vs. Finlay: I think you'll try to protect Finlay but will give Rey the win to keep him alive as a top-tier player.
It's a stacked card! Looking forward to seeing how it plays out.
ETA: I'm stumped on the bonus question. I'm thinking that because it's the GAB, perhaps you're bringing in Hogan for a cameo. But I'm not even sure if you've got him under contract, so that's a shot in the dark.
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Catching up...
Smackdown!: I tend to prefer a heel Brock, but I think his chasing Angle could work. I think Haas & Benjamin were elevated a bit by the angle, too. Hoping Big Show triumphs in the feud with Hogan. It would be nice if Hogan put him over in a big way and went away for a good long while. I have to admit that your heel Cena is clicking with me in a way his current, real-life character is not. Really enjoyed the Cruiserweight Title angle; all three men should/could benefit from this if done right. I am dreading Taker/Jones vs. the FBI, but it is vintage Smackdown! 2003. O'Haire continues to be promising. Hoping to see Kanyon make his way onto the A show soon.
News: Interested in seeing where you go with Heyman. Getting Sylvan, Fertig, and Bane over will be a challenge, so it'll be fun seeing what you do with them.
RAW: HHH and Booker's respective clean(ish) wins both made sense, as does the signing of Orton-Dust. I don't think Goldberg's loss will hurt him as long as you follow up well next week. Happy to see Chief Morley pick up the win. Steiner and Hardy are an odd match but I think that helps rather than hurts. Test has been left looking pretty weak, though. I think Bischoff losing it with Austin came at the right time; the gimmick of Austin revising Bischoff's decisions had been taken as far as it could have, I think. I would have had Stone Cold or a third party come up with the idea of the match at Backlash, but Austin acknowledging that Bischoff would have a plan helped reinforce Easy E's heel role. What Bischoff's plan is could lead to good stuff, especially if it freshens Stone Cold up.
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Hosted by Joey Styles, Mike Tenay, and Jerry Lawler
Reading, PA
Thursday May 17, 2001
ACTIONS AND WORDS
Nitro opened with an appearance by WCW Owner Shane McMahon on the NitroVision. Shane told viewers they wouldn't have to wait for the big announcement. He talked about what a busy man he was, hinting that the New WCW would only be getting bigger and better as the weeks and months progressed. He said he was so busy that he couldn't oversee things with the kind of diligence necessary, and so he'd called in a little help. The WCW Executive Committee had recently appointed a new Head, and that Head would now be present at all WCW events making matches, maintaining order -- serving as an authority. Shane thought long and hard about who he wanted steering the ship. He could have poached someone from his father's inner circle: Briscoe, Patterson, Hayes, Slaughter. Then again, there were experienced free agents in the field, as well: Roddy Piper, Terry Funk, Kevin Nash. But he wanted some new blood. Someone fresh, but also someone who knew the business inside and out; who knew WCW inside and out. He'd settled upon a man he knew had the best interests of WCW at heart: "The American Dream" himself, Dusty Rhodes! Dusty entered the arena, thanked Shane for the opportunity and then said "it's time to get down to business, if ya will." Dusty said it was his job to promote law and order, and he would do just that. He hyped up the great tradition that was the Clash of the Champions, but said it seemed to him that the card for the 5/27 show hadn't quite been rounded out yet. He saw several no-brainers as potential additions and felt there was no reason to wait to announce them. First, last week Dawn Marie and her boys had left no doubt that they wanted a shot at the World Tag Team Titles. Of course, the Impact Playaz's record spoke for itself. Dusty said he knew Palumbo and O'Haire well, and knew that they wanted to defend the titles anytime, anywhere, anyhow, against anyone. With that in mind, he'd gone ahead and booked Storm & Credible vs. NC-17 with the straps on the line at the Clash! But that wasn't all. There had been "a storm a-brewin'" for weeks between one Diamond Dallas Page and "Undeniable" Mike Sanders. The only way that one could be settled would be through a one on one match-up on pay-per-view! Dusty anticipated a spectacular main event on the show as Booker T defended the World Heavyweight Title against Goldberg. He was confident that Booker T would fulfill his obligation to defend the strap. That said, Booker's obligation was double, because he was also the US Heavyweight Champion. Therefore, he would have to pull double duty on Sunday the 27th and defend the US Championship in a second match! Dusty acknowledged that there were plenty of eligible contenders to the strap in WCW, but there was one man he wanted to see Booker get his hands on more than anyone else. "Chris Kanyon, I'm talkin' about you, boy," Dusty revealed. It would be Booker T vs. Kanyon for Booker's US Title on PPV! Dusty said he was sure that Kanyon and the "Nature Boy" Ric Flair were thrilled by all of the talk, all of the speculation about the problems between Booker T and Goldberg that were apparent at the end of last week's Nitro. Dusty said he saw no truth to any of the rumors. He was so confident of that that he'd decided that the next team to get a crack at the Tag Team Titles -- the Impact Playaz -- would have to earn their bragging rights by facing Booker T & Goldberg in the main event on this week's Nitro! Dusty told Flair, Kanyon, Shawn Stasiak, and everyone else with any doubts to watch closely. "Goldberg and Booker T are gonna get it done. Watch and see," the Dream said. All evening long, Rhodes would establish himself as a no-nonsense, hands-on authority figure.
Backstage, Kanyon and Shawn Stasiak asked Ric Flair how he felt about his arch-nemesis Rhodes being named Head of the Executive Committee. Flair suspected Shane McMahon of trying to get to the Nature Boy through Rhodes. "I've handled Dusty Rhodes in the past, and I'll handle Dusty Rhodes now," Naitch declared.
Scott Hudson had the opportunity to interview WCW World and United States Champion Booker T on the entrance ramp a little later on. Hudson first questioned Booker T about his late arrival to last week's show. Booker admitted he would have liked to've made it to the arena last week in time to prevent the gang-up on Goldberg from ever occurring. But the delays were beyond his control, and as soon as he arrived at the show and got wind of what was going on in the ring, he ran in to do the right thing. On the subject of his scheduled US Title defense, Booker said he knew from the Night of Champions that, as a dual champion, he'd be expected to make dual defenses. Kanyon would have to put on the performance of his career if he hoped to win the US Title from him at the Clash. Hudson then asked if Booker and Goldberg would, indeed, be able to function effectively as a unit against the Impact Playaz in the evening's main event. As the Playa contemplated his answer, the opening cord of Goldberg's music struck at the #1 Contender appeared! Goldberg walked down to the interview position, took the microphone, and said he wanted to make a few things clear. First, his top priority was to become the World Heavyweight Champion again. He didn't care who he had to go through to make that happen. Second, he wasn't looking to be friends with Booker T. He wasn't going to dwell on what had happened the week before. What's done was done. He wasn't thrilled by the idea of tagging with Booker again, but he would live. "You stay out of my way tonight, and I'll stay out of yours." Booker said that sounded like a plan. "Just remember," Goldberg added. "You're next!" Booker, though, didn't back down an inch.
Prior to the main event, Hudson also had a word with Lance Storm, Justin Credible, and their manager Dawn Marie backstage. Hudson questioned their tactics of the previous week, characterizing their brawl with tag team champions NC-17 as a "sneak attack." Dawn clarified for Hudson that if he thought those were ruthless tactics, he hadn't seen anything of the Impact Playaz yet. Storm said he'd always had a problem being taken seriously, but certainly managed to turn heads over the past few weeks by dispensing with Mike Awesome and then sending NC-17 a crystal-clear message last week. Storm said that this week, it would be the World and US Champion and the Millennium Man who would find out the hard way just how dangerous the Impact Playaz are. "We're not just dangerous," Credible added. "We're incredible." Dawn finished up by saying that the Impact Playaz took what they wanted. She wrote NC-17's O'Haire and Palumbo off as golden boys of WCW execs: manufactured goods who have been pampered by management since day one. "Honeymoon's over, boys" the Jersey girl winked.
During the feature tag team bout, Booker and Goldberg did, indeed, work together but, to their credit, Storm and Credible held their own. Dawn offered plenty of encouragement from ringside. Victory seemed within the Playaz' grasp when they drilled Booker in the middle of the ring with a double brainbuster. Storm, who was the legal man, was then able to apply the Canadian Mapleleaf. Booker rallied thanks to the support of the crowd and escaped the hold. Upon being tagged in, Goldberg took out Storm with a Superkick right to the jaw. Credible ran in but was press-slammed out to the floor. Storm later outwrestled Goldberg technically, inflicting considerable damage on Goldberg's knee. Goldberg found himself tied up in an Indian deathlock. He forced a rope break, but then had to limp over to Booker to make the tag. Booker went on the offensive against Credible, and Dawn Marie didn't like what she was seeing. She grabbed a steel chair from the ringside area, but this brought NC-17's O'Haire and Palumbo down to the ring! They backed Dawn into a corner before she could get the chair to her man in the ring. Storm hopped off the ring apron to confront the tag team champions. Booker, meanwhile, took Credible down with a Harlem Sidekick. A few seconds later, he hit the BookEnd! Booker was close enough to his home corner so that Goldberg was able to make a blind tag before Booker could attempt the cover on Credible! Booker couldn't believe it, but referee Nick Patrick declared the tag legal and sent Booker out of the ring before he could question his tag team partner. Credible, in a bad way, stood up but was Speared and then Jackhammered. Goldberg scored the pinfall! Security had arrived in the meantime to escort NC-17 to the back. Credible rolled to the outside and was checked on by Dawn and Storm. Goldberg and Booker T then went face-to-face, with Booker taking issue with Goldberg for making the blind tag in order to steal the glory of the victory. Once Justin confirmed to Storm and Dawn that he would live, Dawn sent her boys up the ramp to go after NC-17. Before the Impact Playaz could make it back through the entrance to catch up to O'Haire and Palumbo in the back, Mike Awesome appeared out of nowhere and took on both Impact Playaz! Meanwhile, Booker and Goldberg's argument intensified, giving Ric Flair, Chris Kanyon, and Shawn Stasiak the opening they needed to hit the ring and blindside both men with an attack. Goldberg and Booker fought back momentarily but were ultimately taken down. While Kanyon and Stasiak kept Booker and Goldberg grounded respectfully, the Nature Boy stood tall in the middle of the ring to conclude Nitro. "The Dirtiest Player in the Game has managed to come out on top yet again!" offered Styles...
CODE OF HONOR
Kurt Angle was in a cheery mood backstage this week. The Olympic Gold Medalist wandered through the locker room area offering such WCW Stars as Team Xtreme and Super Crazy the opportunity to sign the giant 'Get Well' card he had purchased for Lash Leroux. Leroux was, of course, recuperating from a broken angle inflicted by a malicious Angle himself the week before. Angle's co-workers did not seem moved by his gesture. As Angle began taking them to task for their lack of appreciation, Sting walked right up behind an oblivious Angle! Angle backed into Sting and turned around to blast the careless individual who'd gotten in his way. When Angle saw that this person was none other than Sting, our hero's expression changed dramatically. Sting told Angle he had a feeling there's something Lash would appreciate more than the card, and that would be to see Sting give Angle the beating of his life later on on Nitro; to hell with the Clash. Angle stuttered in response. Head of the Executive Committee Dusty Rhodes then arrived on the scene, having heard the commotion. Dream told the Stinger he understood his frustration, but said he would have to wait until the Clash to get his hands on Kurt Angle. Disqo joined the discussion and pointed out that plenty of the boys wanted a shot at Angle after what he did last week. Disqo pointed out that he and Leroux were once tag team partners. Angle asked Disqo if he was calling him out, and Disqo confirmed that he was. Dusty approved the match. Before leaving, Sting told Angle that May 27th would be a date he'd never forget!
Disqo showed fire early on in the match, but Angle recovered from the initial shock. Disqo set up for a brainbuster, but Angle blocked it and executed an overhead belly to belly. Disqo fought back at one point and prepared to drop Angle with his piledriver but Angle regained a vertical base and managed to lift Disqo up with the Angle Slam. Angle put on a body scissors and rear naked choke, punishing Leroux's friend. When Angle charged at Disqo a minute later, Disqo blocked with a back elbow. He tried picking Angle up for a slam, but Angle floated over and caught Disqo in the Anklelock. It was over. Angle's nasty ankle-breaking habit continued as he attempted to give Disqo the same treatment as Leroux had received the week before. But before Disqo's ankle snapped, Sting hit the ring! Angle released Disqo, who rolled to the outside. Angle charged at Sting. Sting used a drop toe hold to take Angle down, and tried tying him up in the Scorpion Deathlock! Alas, Angle contorted his body to counter the move and when the opportunity presented itself, he rolled out of the ring. Angle quickly retreated to the back. This would not, however, be an option on 5/27 at the Clash.
LOSING GRIP
As promised last week, viewers got an exclusive sneak peak of Stacy and Torrie's joint photoshoot for the cover of WCW Magazine. As many expected, the shoot didn't go as smoothly as it might have. Stacy accused the photographer of shooting Torrie in more favorable lighting conditions. When Torrie pointed out the ridiculousness of Stacy's accusation, a catfight broke out!
Later, backstage, Torrie caught up with the returning "Screamin'" Norman Smiley, who is on his way back to WCW. Big Poppa Pump and Stacy happened to catch the two together, and Steiner quickly voiced his suspicion that Smiley was the mystery opponent Torrie had in mind for him at the Clash. Torrie and Smiley immediately denied the charge. Steiner snapped and attacked Norman despite a complete lack of evidence suggesting Steiner's suspicions were accurate.
FAIR-WEATHER FRIENDS
Cameras spied Bam Bam Bigelow cornering Mike Sanders in the locker room at Nitro; Bigelow apparently had yet to be compensated by Sanders for services rendered against Diamond Dallas Page the week before. Sanders, apparently oblivious to the massive size advantage held by Bigelow, laughed in the face of the Beast From the East, pointing out to him that he lost to DDP last week; Sanders didn't owe him a damn thing. DDP overheard the exchange, which brought a smile to his face. He asked former partner and foe Bigelow if he was going to stand by and take Sanders's abuse. "Hell, no," said Bigelow. Bigelow hoped Sanders's jellyfish sting had healed, because he planned to ask Dusty Rhodes for a match with him later on!
Off-screen, Rhodes approved Bigelow's request. The Undeniable opportunist attacked before the bell, putting the boots to Bigelow. Sanders chopped Bigelow in the corner, but Bigelow easily turned the tables. He squashed Sanders in the corner with a splash. Sanders took a good deal of additional punishment, including a double underhook backbreaker and the devastating headbutt to the groin. Bigelow went for an inverted suplex, but Sanders was able to counter with a jawbreaker. Sanders turned around and dropkicked Bigelow right in the head. Bigelow powered out of a pin attempt at one and a half. Sanders dropped an elbow and covered again; this met with little success. Sanders cursed Charles Robinson for his "slow counts." Bigelow picked up Sanders and slammed him to the mat. Sanders had had enough. He rolled to the outside and began pacing around the ring. Robinson began to count him out. "To hell with this!" Sanders yelled. He began walking up the ramp while Robinson continued to count. Bigelow moved to exit the ring to give chase, but Robinson prevented Bam Bam from doing so. Sanders, as was his design, was counted out and Bigelow won the match. At the entrance, Sanders smiled at Bigelow and pointed at his head, alluding to his staggering intelligence. DDP then surfaced; he wasn't able to let Sanders get away unscathed! He hit Sanders with a couple of right hands and dragged him down to the ring. Bigelow appreciated the gesture and hit Sanders with the Bigelow Driver. DDP then picked Sanders up and gave him the Diamond Cutter. Having received his comeuppance, Sanders may want to think twice before choosing to scheme against DDP next time. This was a timely lesson to learn, given the match that had been scheduled for the Clash!
EXTREME ALLEGIANCE
Jeff Jarrett continued to shield himself from Rob Van Dam behind luchadore allies Juventud Guerrero and Psicosis this week. He told Scott Hudson that RVD having gotten the better of him last week was the result of a "cowardly attack." The Chosen one said Juvi and Psicosis weren't done with Van Dam just yet, and told Mr. Thursday Night to be the tag team partner of his choice to the ring later on.
RVD opted to go with former ECW compatriot Super Crazy. Entering with Juventud and Psicosis, Jarrett joined the announce team for commentary and immediately noted how predictable it was that RVD had selected "another one of Paul Heyman's bargain-basement stuntmen" as his partner. With the fast-paced action underway, Jarrett launched into a rant over the fact that there were plenty of former WCW guys out of work because people like Rob Van Dam and Super Crazy had taken their coveted slots on the roster. A highlight in the match came when Super Crazy took both himself and Psicosis over the top rope with a crossbody block. The Juice joined them with a plancha. Finally, RVD added himself to the pileup with a pescado. "What's he trying to do?" Jarrett spat. "Break his neck?" Later, RVD took Psicosis down with a sidekick. Super followed up with a Springboard Moonsault. RVD looked to set up for the Five Star Frogsplash. Jarrett threw off his headset, clearly preparing to intervene in the match. Dusty Rhodes came to ringside, however, and sent Jarrett to the back! Jarrett was furious, and took a swing at Dusty, sending the Dream back into the guardrail. RVD hoped off the top turnbuckle and prepared to confront Jarrett for attacking Rhodes. Juvi, however, grabbed him and planted him with the JuviDriver. Super Crazy was unable to prevent the Juice from nailing RVD with the 450˚ splash, which led to the pinfall! Jarrett was thrilled, applauding Juventud and Psicosis for the job well done.
ALWAYS ROOM FOR MORE
One half of the Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions, Rey Mysterio was in action this week against TAKA, a member of one of two team challenging for the titles at the Clash. Kidman and Funaki accompanied their respective partners to the ring for the bout, although both men resisted the urge to interfere during the course of the match. The finish came out of nowhere when TAKA was able to execute a victory roll while positioned atop Rey's shoulders. Post-match, a brawl broke out between Mysterio & Kidman and Kaientai. Refusing to miss out on the action, the Hardyz charged to the ring to join the fray. There was now officially no semblance of friendship remaining between Rey & Kidman and the Hardyz...
HE DID IT HIS WAY
He avoided the match at all costs last week, but tonight The Bull had no choice but to face off with Hugh Morrus. Morrus gained a measure of revenge against The Bull, who had attacked him in an unsportsmanlike fashion seven days prior. Morrus got a two count after a sidewalk slam. Soon, he clotheslined The Bull out of the ring and then introduced Bull's skull to the ringsteps multiple times. Bull even fell victim to a powerbomb at ringside. But while he writhed in pain, he was able to reach under the ring and pull out a well-placed lead pipe. When Morrus moved to continue his attack on Bull, Bull subtly blasted Morrus in the skull with the lead pipe and then concealed the weapon once more. The proud Italian-American rolled the unconscious Morrus back into the ring and finished him off with a Swinging DDT to pick up the 'W.'
GOING SOLO
The word on the street is that WCW Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms will soon be returning to action in WCW, and so the Executive Committee has set about finding a challenger for Helms to face upon his return. A #1 Contendership match was arranged after two cruiserweight combatants were selected by random drawing. It was the veteran Ultimo Dragon against the returning Shannon Moore. Moore was not alone; he was accompanied to the ring by "The Mouth of the South" Jimmy Hart, who explained on commentary that he was Moore's new manager both in the Sports-Entertainment and musical domains. Hart, of course, has a great deal of experience in both fields. His newest custom-made jacket included a giant airbrushed depiction of Moore across its back. Hart made it clear that Shannon was now going solo both in the ring and on-stage; he would no longer be held back by the rest of 3 Count or by anyone else, for that matter. Hart was certain that "Solo" Shannon would go on to challenge former partner Helms for the championship upon the latter's return. The match proved that Shannon is no slouch, but the experience of the Dragon helped the international superstar triumph in the end. Moore flew off the top turnbuckle looking for a flying clothesline but Dragon caught him in the Dragon Sleeper. Like so many others in the past, Moore submitted. Hart then grabbed his megaphone and appealed to referee Billy Silverman to make this a best-of-three-falls contest, but Silverman balked. Hart then told the crowd and viewers to take a good look at Moore's face, because they'd be seeing a lot of it from this point forward. Leaving that aside, we can all look forward to the Ultimo Dragon challenging Gregory Helms upon the champ's return!
Announced Clash of the Champions Card .::. 10 Days Away!
• World Heavyweight Title: Booker T © vs. Goldberg
• Sting vs. Kurt Angle
• Torrie's Choice: Big Poppa Pump (w/Stacy Keibler) vs. ??? (w/Torrie Wilson)
• WCW US Heavyweight Title: Booker T © vs. Kanyon
• WCW World Tag Team Titles: NC-17 © vs. The Impact Playaz (w/Dawn Marie)
• "Undeniable" Mike Sanders vs. Diamond Dallas Page
• "The Chosen One" Jeff Jarrett vs. Rob Van Dam
• WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Titles: Rey Mysterio & Billy Kidman © vs. The Hardy Boyz (w/Lita) vs. Kai En Tai
Match Results(1) Ultimo Dragon d. "Solo" Shannon Moore (w/Jimmy Hart)
(2) Kurt Angle d. Disqo
(3) Bam Bam Bigelow d. "Undeniable" Mike Sanders via countout
(4) Juventud Guerrera & Psicosis (w/Jeff Jarrett) d. "Mr. Thursday Night" Rob Van Dam & Super Crazy
(5) The Bull d. Hugh Morrus
(6) TAKA Michinoku (w/Funaki) d. Rey Mysterio (w/Kidman)
(7) Goldberg & Booker T d. The Impact Playaz (w/Dawn Marie)
Overall Rating: 76% (-5%)
WWE Reunification: December 2006+
in The Dome Retro Room
Posted · Edited by tqwcw
WWE Extreme
December 10 2006
Taped 12/5 in Florence, SC
Announcers: Joey Styles & Tazz
In the Ring
After the opening montage of the new Extreme program airs, we go to the arena, where Finlay makes his entrance (with sheleighly). The clock then ticks and I'm Comin' brings MVP down to the ring, flanked on either side by new hangers-on Kristal and Leyla. MVP takes the microphone from ring announcer Tony Chimel and clues the Man Who Loves to Fight in on something: Montel Vontavious Porter performs when he wants, where he wants, against whom he wants. Tonight, he isn't feeling it and so he will not be wrestling Finlay! Finlay interjects that MVP is a coward, and MVP suggests that the Fighting Irishman watch his mouth. MVP reveals that his high-powered agent has negotiated a compromise with WWE management; representing MVP in this match will be his bodyguard. Finlay says he would be more than happy to deliver a beating to MVP's entire staff if he liked. MVP promises that Finlay is about to make a world of hurt and turns his attention to the entrance; out comes MVP's bodyguard -- Rodney Mack! MVP watches in satisfaction while big, bad Mack walks to the ring. Mack steps through the ropes after exchanging a cool handshake with his employer; Finlay wastes no time in taking the boots to Mack as the opening bell rings.
63%
MVP gained overness.
1- Singles Match
Finlay vs. Rodney Mack (with MVP & Kristal & Leyla)
Mack takes Finlay down with a shoulderblock early on, but Finlay counters a corner splash by getting the boot up. Finlay fires away at Mack with chops and European uppercuts, refusing to be overcome by Mack's size advantage. From the outside, a vocal MVP pushes Mack to put Finlay away. Mack slams Finlay and Finlay's head is draped on the bottom rope. MVP chokes away at him while Mack keeps referee Mike Posey occupied. Mack turns his attentions back to Finlay while Kristal and Leyla stroke MVP's sizable ego. Mack sets up for a double underhook powerbomb, but Finlay fights back with a double leg takedown and then an elbow to the groin. MVP prepares to intervene, but the Little Bastard emerges from under the ring and hops on MVP's back, foiling any possibe interference! Finlay looks on with approval, but when he turns back to the task at hand, Rodney catches him with the Mack Attack DDT and scores the pin! The crowd was happy to see Little Bastard, but they were dead for most of the match.
WINNER: Rodney Mack by pinfall.
MVP laughs in the face of the fallen Finlay. Mission accomplished, he heads to the back with a diva on each arm and with his effective bodyguard in tow. Little Bastard helps Finlay back to his feet, and Finlay flares his nostrils at the exiting heels.
54/36/73
Rodney Mack gained overness.
Video Package
Styles and Tazz plugged the Extreme Rules match between Test and Sabu set to headline the program and determine Bobby Lashley's first Extreme World Championship challenger. They introduced a video package documenting the high-risk offense of the Suicidal, Homicidal, Genocidal, Death-Defying Sabu. We see classic ECW footage of Triple Jump Moonsaults, Air Sabu, Arabian Facebusters, suicide dives through tables, Planchas, and more. Tonight, he faces Test, who just happens to be managed by the man who for years gave Sabu an outlet for said Suicidal, Homicidal, Genocidal methods...
66%
Sabu lost overness.
Backstage
Elijah Burke is with "The Predator" Sylvester Terkay. Burke puts over Terkay's performance in the Extreme Elimination Chamber at December to Dismember Burke reminds us that Terkay is an Elijah Original and that the streak would continue next, on Extreme.
63%
Elijah Burke and Sylvester Terkay gained overness.
2- Singles Match
Val Venis vs. Sylvester Terkay (with Elijah Burke)
The Big Valbowski enters and enjoys the admiration of the ladies as usual, but as the Knockout/Tapout Connection make their way to the ring, Styles and Tazz note that Venis has quite the task ahead of him. Regardless, Val locks up with Terkay to start, but The Predator quickly gains the advantage and gives Venis a toss three-forths of the way across the ring. Val wouldn't relent, though, and he charged in at Terkay. Terkay met Venis with a stiff roundhouse kick. It's all academic from there, as Terkay locks on a Key Lock and Venis instantly taps. Squash.
WINNER: Sylvester Terkay by pinfall.
An enthusiastic Burke towels off Terkay while referee John Finnegan gestures to the back for medical attention for Venis.
65/56/74
Sylvester Terkay gained overness.
3- Tag Team Match
Charlie Haas & Viscera vs. Cryme Tyme
Cryme Tyme, who have yet to receive the tag team title shot they earned at Cyber Sunday, are in action against the odd couple of Viscera and Charlie Haas. Styles and Tazz remind us of the tension between Viscera and Haas over Viscera's distracting shenanigans with Kelly Kelly during Haas's match with CM Punk on RAW six days ago. Haas and JTG are ready to begin, but then Haas and Big Viscera argue over which of them should start off for their team. Crafty JTG capitalizes with an instant schoolboy attempt, although Haas escapes after a two count. Haas outwrestles JTG and makes the tag to Viscera, who squashes JTG in the corner. The World's Largest Love Machine slams JTG in the middle of the ring and sets up for a splash, but he takes too much time; JTG rolls out of the way and makes the hot tag to Shad! Shad rocks Viscera with a big boot and knocks Haas off the apron with a sneaky back elbow. Haas's frustration gets the better of him on the outside, as he rants at ring announcer Justin Roberts for no particular reason and then knocks Styles and Tazz's notes off the announce table. A confused Viscera questions his partner from the ring, which allows Shad to plant Viscera with an inverted DDT for the win! Viscera is almost completely imobile and Cryme Tyme are greener than grass.
WINNERS: Cryme Tyme by pinfall.
Shad and JTG celebrate on the outside. They like the look of Tazz's shades and contemplate walking off with them. Meanwhile, Viscera tries to open a dialogue with Haas, but Haas shoves the big man and walks out. Is their startup tag team already fizzling?
52/52/53
Cryme Tyme gained overness.
Backstage
Chavo and Vickie Guerrero mug for the cameras. Chavo recaps that Monday on RAW, in a six man tag match, his team defeated that of United States Champion Chris Benoit. As a matter of fact, he personally pinned Chris Benoit, and yet at Armageddon, it will be Chris Benoit vs. Jeff Hardy with Benoit's US Jeff's Intercontinental Titles on the line. Chavo declares that he's had it "up to here" with the injustice. Luckily for him, he has the support of business manager extraordinaire, Vickie Guerrero. Vickie confirms that she is working round the clock to address WWE's unfair oversight; she is confident that fairness will prevail...
58%
Chavo Guerrero lost overness. Vickie Guerrero gained overness.
4- Extreme Rules – Extreme World Championship #1 Contenders Match
Test (with Paul Heyman) vs. Sabu
Out first are Messiah of Extreme Paul Heyman and his new long-term investment, Test. Sabu follows, sporting battle scars from last week's Extreme Elimination Chamber. After the opening bell, Test powers Sabu into the corner and hits a series of punches and kicks. He drills Sabu with a running powerslam, but pin attempts prove unsuccessful. The Extreme Rules stipulation then comes into play; Sabu is tossed over the top rope. On the outside, Test suplexes Sabu on the concrete. Test charges at Sabu with an attempted forearm against the ringpost, but Sabu moves and Test smacks his forehead on the unforgiving steel. Heyman encourages Test to shake it off while Sabu returns to the ring, runs the ropes for momentum, and hits Test down below with an insane plancha! Heyman is horrified, and both men are down. Sabu picks himself up and then searches under the ring, where he finds a table. As Sabu sets up the table at ringside, Styles notes that both men will put their bodies on the line in order to qualify to challenge Bobby Lashley for the most hardcore of sports-entertainment championships. Sabu tries bashing Test's head on the table but Test blocks the shot and gives Sabu a belly to back suplex on the thin protective mat. This is all perfectly legal under extreme rules. Test sends Sabu back into the ring. Test sends Sabu into the ropes and downs him with his big boot. Sabu kicks out of a pinning combination. Losing his patience, Heyman passes Test a chair. Test taunts the crowd as he prepares to waffle Sabu with the weapon. He charges in at Sabu, who comes out of nowhere with a spinning kick that sends the chair right into the face of Test! Test collapses in the nearest corner. Sabu sets up the chair right in front of Test, and connects with Air Sabu! Sabu covers, but Test gets a foot on the rope much to Heyman's relief. Sabu heads up to the top rope but is moving slowly due to fatigue. Test is able to get up and cut Sabu off with a press slam. The ringside table catches Test's eye and he moves to the edge of the ring, where he plans to suplex Sabu to the outside through the table! Sabu slips out of the suplex, though, and dropkicks Test off the apron and through the table on the outside! Heyman is horrified. Sabu maneuevers the limp Test back into the ring an then sets up the chair once more. Triple Jump Moonsault! Mickey Hensen counts: 1-2-3! Sabu wins it! Fun stunt match.
WINNER: Sabu by pinfall.
A battered Sabu has his hand raised as Heyman tries rousing Test. The bottom line: Bobby Lashley's first title defense will be against a man who helped define extreme: Sabu! On that note, the show concludes.
73/69/78
Overall Rating: 62%
Television Rating: 2.37