WWE: TaskForce Re-Style

[rdarnz]

OK, here's my attempt at a diary.

No backstory that lacks reality in any form.

No little news reports.

Just pure wrest...sports entertainment!

Disclaimer

This is a fictional history based on the workings of my mind and should not be miscontrued as actual wrestling news, information, rumors, or results. Any images, logos, banners, avatars used in this forum are copyrighted by the organization they come from.

Also, please note that this begins at the Draft Lottery show following WrestleMania XX. All drafts remained the same as seen on television, but no trades took place.

Edited June 19, 2005 by rdarnz

[rdarnz]

Date: March 22nd, 2004

Location: Detroit, Michigan

WWE Monday Night RAW

The show kicks off backstage, with Vince McMahon, Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman. Vince goes over the rules for tonight's Draft Lottery explaining that both brands would be allowed 6 picks. He reitterates firmly that everyone's name in is the barrel, to the dismay of Bischoff and Heyman. Finally, he informs them that contrary to the earlier rumour, no trades would be allowed.

Paul Heyman and Eric Bischoff emerge on the RAW stage now, where two barrels have been placed. Heyman pulls out the first ball, and reads that Rene Dupree has been drafted to SmackDown. Rene comes out, and accepts the SmackDown shirt offered by Heyman, before asking to have one last RAW match, in an attempt to erase the memory of suffering a Stunner last week.

Chris Jericho defeated Rene Dupree following a shining wizard. Dupree is upset and demands that he is shown some respect, leading to the arrival of Steve Austin, who nails him with a Stunner before celebrating with his typical beer-drinking.

Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman re-emerge on the stage now as the RAW and SmackDown stars look on from their locker-rooms backstage. Bischoff pulls a name out of the barrel, and he reads that Shelton Benjamin has been drafted to RAW. Backstage, Benjamin hugs his tag partner, Charlie Haas before putting on a red shirt and heading to the RAW locker-room.

Kane defeated Rico in an obvious squash match, that saw Kane totally dominate his opponent and win with an old favourite, the chokeslam. Kane then confronts the two General Managers, demanding that he ends up on the opposite show to The Undertaker. Heyman pleads with Bischoff to get some control, causing some laughs from the crowd.

Back on the stage again, as Paul Heyman steps up to the barrel and pulls Mark Jindrak's name out. Jindrak is shown saying farewell to his tag team partner, Garrison Cade, before switching locker-room. Again, Bischoff now steps up to the barrel and makes his next pick. He is rather disappointed, though as he pulls out Nidia's name. Heyman wishes her luck, hoping she goes blind again, whilst she is excited at the prospect of fighting for the Womens' Title.

John Cena appears on stage, just as Heyman goes to pick his third superstar. Cena cuts a rap, before picking a ball and handing it to Heyman. Upon opening it, Heyman grins and announces that none other than Triple H will be heading to SmackDown. Backstage, Triple H is obviously shocked as he sprays a RAW diva with water.

Christian defeated Spike Dudley in a half-decent match. Christian is accompanied by the recently turned Trish Stratus and wins following an Unprettier on his opponent.

Vince McMahon shows up once again, interrupting an argument backstage between Heyman and Bischoff. Bischoff is saying that Cena picked the ball, but Vince ignores that fact and says that all picks are official. Heyman then suggests a match for tonight, with Eddie Guerrero defending his World Title to Triple H, right here on RAW.

Next up, the pair are on the stage again, and before Bischoff makes his third pick he announces that whoever is picked will face Chris Benoit later tonight, for his World Heavyweight Title. Without further ado, Bischoff now makes his pick, which he reveals as Rhyno who appears on the stage, throwing his SmackDown shirt at Heyman before accepting a RAW shirt from Eric Bischoff.

Batista and Ric Flair defeated Rob Van Dam and Booker T to claim the World Tag Team Titles. Van Dam accidentally hit a springboard dropkick to his partner, Booker T, allowing Batista to nail a powerbomb for the win.

The fourth pick for Paul Heyman is next, and he pulls out Rob Van Dam, whom he proclaims as Mr Thursday Night. Van Dam is then shown apologizing to Booker T about the mishap in their earlier match, before Coach shows up, informing Van Dam of the draft.

Chris Benoit defeated Rhyno in a decent match allowing Benoit to retain the Title. Benoit managed to somehow reverse Rhyno's Gore attempt into the Crippler Crossface for the submission victory.

Shawn Michaels interrupts Eric Bischoff as he heads out to the stage for the final session of picks. He tells Bischoff that he expects to be drafted to SmackDown, so he can avenge Triple H again. Eric Bischoff stands strong though declining the request, and instead saying he'd get a World Heavyweight Title shot at BackLash.

Bischoff continues to the stage, where he takes the next pick, pulling out Tajiri's name. Heyman then pulls out a name, and drafts Theodore Long to SmackDown. A grin spreads across the face of Bischoff, as he pulls out Edge's name, prompting some biug cheers from the crowd. Heyman steps up for his final pick now and drafts Spike Dudley, before Bischoff does the same, but to his disbelief pulls Heyman's name out. The RAW locker-room is distraught, whilst the SmackDown stars celebrate.

As Heyman turns to walk out, Vince McMahon comes out onto the stage, saying that the pair would have to co-operate, and work alongside Steve Austin, because the draft decision would stay and RAW now had three significant figures of authority. Bischoff heads to the ring, not too happy and is met by the return of Edge, who hits the ring and takes out Bischoff with a spear. Paul Heyman is seen laughing at the top of the ramp, until Edge turns his attentions in that direction, causing Heyman to run off.

Eddie Guerrero drew with Triple H in a solid match, that saw Ric Flair and Batista come down to interfere, only to be met by John Cena and Rey Mysterio. Shawn Michaels then came down, super-kicking Triple H before leaping onto the brawlers. Eddie then went for the Frog Splash, but was pushed down by Christian, who was then met by Rob Van Dam who in turn downed him. These guys all brawled, until Steve Austin made his way out, bringing more superstars who all joined the brawl as the show went off air.

Quick Results

Chris Jericho defeated Rene Dupree

Kane defeated Rico

Christian defeated Spike Dudley

Batista and Ric Flair defeated Rob Van Dam and Booker T

Chris Benoit defeated Rhyno

Eddie Guerrero drew with Triple H

[rdarnz]

SmackDown Preview

SmackDown comes to you from Grand Rapids, Michigan this week and it looks to be an interesting show to say the least. Chaos ensued for the most part during the reign of Paul Heyman and we can only expect the chaos to continue tonight, especially without an authority figure to take control of any situations that may arise.

A night of action and drama is guaranteed in the aftermath of the Draft Lottery on RAW that saw Rene Dupree, Mark Jindrak, Triple H, Rob Van Dam, Theodore Long and Spike Dudley arrive on SmackDown. We can assume that any of these six guys will somehow make an impact, maybe even all six. The certain thing is that all six will be here on SmackDown.

Charlie Haas is one of the SmackDown stars affected by the Draft Lottery, as it saw his partner Shelton Benjamin head over to RAW. Haas will look to rebound, as he faces Hardcore Holly in a singles match-up. Everyone is asking how will Charlie Haas react to the loss of his partner and friend?

Also, in a match already announced by the WWE, the Basham Brothers can earn themselves number one contendership for the WWE Tag Team titles, if Danny Basham can find his way past the huge Rikishi. The likelihood is that Danny Basham will get squashed, quite literally. Possibly his partner will play a part as they attempt to pull out a victory.

In the only other prior announced match, we shall see the United States champion, John Cena in action, defending his title to the beastly A-Train. A-Train is a known ally of The Big Show, who is reportedly furious that he lost the title to Cena at WrestleMania XX, two weeks ago.

Make sure you watch SmackDown, this Thursday as a night of intense action is guaranteed, only on UPN.

Confirmed Matches

Danny Basham [vs] Rikishi

Charlie Haas [vs] Hardcore Holly

A-Train [vs] John Cena

[rdarnz]

Date: March 25th, 2004

Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan

WWE SmackDown

The show opens as Triple H’s music hits, and he comes out wearing one of his trademarked t-shirts. He climbs into the ring and starts ranting about being placed on the lesser show and how his match for the lesser title was interrupted last week. Basically, he is asking for a re-match and is met by Vince McMahon. Triple H practically begs him, but instead Vince tells him to ask the new commissioner, William Regal. Regal is shown in an office backstage and looks very pleased to be there.

Rene Dupree is shown now, backstage with interviewer Josh Matthews, who asks him how it feels to be on SmackDown. Dupree basically states that he can start afresh now, and without people like Austin holding him back he can prevail. He then lays out a challenge to John Cena, saying that he should prove that the United States Title is fit to be worn by an American.

Charlie Haas defeated Hardcore Holly after Holly tapped out to the Haas Of Pain. Charlie doesn’t celebrate; instead he makes his way back up the ramp yelling that Holly couldn’t cope with a force such as Charlie Haas, especially with his new partner Mark Jindrak, who then jumps over the barricades from the crowd and assaults Holly, before eventually joining Charlie Haas on the ramp.

Chavo Guerrero and his father Chavo Classic now climb into the ring, almost immediately they start boasting about the family legacy. They insult Eddie Guerrero saying he turned his back on his roots before stating that Chavo Guerrero is the biggest name in Hispanic wrestling history. This caused Rey Mysterio’s arrival as he attempted to assault them, only to be double-teamed and literally kicked from the ring.

Rikishi defeated Danny Basham preventing the Basham Brothers from getting number one contendership to the tag titles. Afterwards, he celebrated with his partner Scotty II Hotty by dancing in the ring.

Eddie Guerrero enters into the arena, as always in a low-rider to huge cheers from the crowd. Eddie bad mouths Chavo for his comments earlier, before moving onto more important issues, notably Triple H. Eddie says that Triple H has had his shot and he didn’t win, but that he would be happy to beat him again tonight, anyway. Eddie finally celebrates the fact that he shelved Kurt Angle in their WrestleMania XX classic.

William Regal is sitting at a desk drinking a cup of tea in an office very much decorated by the Union Jack. At that moment, Triple H bursts in and orders Regal to book a match between himself and Eddie Guerrero tonight. Regal says he’ll consider it, but this causes Triple H to grab him by the collar and practically insist upon it. Regal backs down, but tells Triple H that it won’t be for the title, and if he wanted a title shot there are people already ahead of him.

Rob Van Dam defeated Jamie Noble on his SmackDown debut with the Five Star Frog Splash. Van Dam celebrates with his fans afterwards, as Noble is given medical attention. As Van Dam leaves, he grabs the microphone and tells the crowd that Mr Thursday Night has arrived.

Bradshaw now comes down to the ring, though he is dressed in a suit and cowboy hat. The announcer introduces him as John Bradshaw Layfield much to the disgust of a large majority in the crowd. He explains that he was misunderstood last week, when Farooq got fired, but then goes on to tell us of a stock portfolio he has built up, and that he has another job as a commentator for Fox News. He tells the fans that they should respect him and that after drinking a whole heap of beer and meeting a whole lot of troops he realised that he was doing everything the wrong way. He finishes by telling us that business is about to pick up.

John Cena follows this segment, and is shown backstage where he cuts a rap, speaking about how he would kick some *** back to France before becoming the world champion. He is interrupted by The Big Show who says that he is owed a re-match and that Cena was soon to lose his title and it would go back where it belongs, on the shoulder of the biggest man in sports entertainment.

John Cena defeated A-Train in an impromptu title defence. Cena got dominated, until halfway through when he managed to fight back, and eventually nail an F-U for the win. After the match, John Cena left quickly as both Rene Dupree and The Big Show raced down to the ring, obviously after Cena.

William Regal comes out onto the stage, as Show and Dupree chase Cena through the crowd. Regal grabs a microphone and after thanking the crowd for the great welcome, he makes his announcement stating that a number one contender was needed and that he saw three men that could be a worthy challenger to Eddie Guerrero. Next week, he said that these three men would be informed and that one of them would face Eddie Guerrero at Judgement Day.

Eddie Guerrero defeated Triple H in another decent match between the two. Triple H seemed uncomfortable without Evolution watching his back, and eventually got rolled up rather cheaply by Guerrero, who capitalised on Triple H’s edginess. Triple H avenged it, though beating down on Guerrero after the match, until the arena darkened and we heard the famous gong of The Undertaker, causing both guys to scarper. We went off air, as the lights came back on, leaving the ring empty.

Quick Results

Charlie Haas defeated Hardcore Holly

Rikishi defeated Danny Basham

Rob Van Dam defeated Jamie Noble

John Cena defeated A-Train

Eddie Guerrero defeated Triple H

[rdarnz]

Date: March 27th, 2004

Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan

WWE Velocity

The show opens in the new office of William Regal, and standing in front of him are four members of the SmackDown roster; Jamie Noble, Akio, Funaki and Shannon Moore. William Regal tells them that they can earn a shot at Chavo’s Cruiserweight title if they manage to win tonight. He then announces that each guy would face a bigger opponent in a test to see who deserved the chance most.

Shannon Moore defeated Chuck Palumbo in a shocker that started the show. Moore, though not the most aggressive, used his speed and wit as he took on Palumbo. The FBI member met his downfall courtesy of his partners, who interfered when it wasn’t needed; botching the job as they accidentally took out Palumbo as well as Moore, who recovered to stretch a hand across Palumbo.

SmackDown ReBound

The show opens as Triple H’s music hits, and he comes out wearing one of his trademarked t-shirts. He climbs into the ring and starts ranting about being placed on the lesser show and how his match for the lesser title was interrupted last week. Basically, he is asking for a re-match and is met by Vince McMahon. Triple H practically begs him, but instead Vince tells him to ask the new commissioner, William Regal. Regal is shown in an office backstage and looks very pleased to be there.

Chuck Palumbo is looking highly annoyed as he heads back to the FBI locker-room, accompanied by Nunzio and Johnny Stamboli. En route, however he runs into Funaki, who is warming up for the match he has up next. Palumbo and his partners decide to vent some of their frustration and assault the helpless Funaki, who is actually saved by his opponent, Matt Morgan who yells at the FBI to leave some for him to finish off.

Matt Morgan defeated Funaki in a match that saw a severe lack of offence from Funaki. As a result of the earlier attack Funaki was very weary and seemed likely to pass out at any moment, throughout the entire match. Ultimately, he gave up the fight, giving in to an early pinfall attempt gifting the win to Matt Morgan.

SmackDown ReBound

Eddie Guerrero enters into the arena, as always in a low-rider to huge cheers from the crowd. Eddie bad mouths Chavo for his comments earlier, before moving onto more important issues, notably Triple H. Eddie says that Triple H has had his shot and he didn’t win, but that he would be happy to beat him again tonight, anyway. Eddie finally celebrates the fact that he shelved Kurt Angle in their WrestleMania XX classic.

Hardcore Holly defeated Akio as Holly used his pent-up rage from the attack by Jindrak and Haas three nights ago. Holly was dominant, and although Akio managed to get a short flurry of kicks in, he was met by an Alabama Slam for the three count and pinfall victory to Hardcore Holly.

SmackDown ReBound

Bradshaw now comes down to the ring, though he is dressed in a suit and cowboy hat. The announcer introduces him as John Bradshaw Layfield much to the disgust of a large majority in the crowd. He explains that he was misunderstood last week, when Farooq got fired, but then goes on to tell us of a stock portfolio he has built up, and that he has another job as a commentator for Fox News. He tells the fans that they should respect him and that after drinking a whole heap of beer and meeting a whole lot of troops he realised that he was doing everything the wrong way. He finishes by telling us that business is about to pick up.

Rob Van Dam defeated Jamie Noble in a re-match of their meeting on SmackDown. Van Dam ultimately came out on top again, after hitting the Five Star Frog Splash on Noble for the second time in three days. Van Dam celebrated after the match with his fans, before eventually heading to the back.

Quick Results

Shannon Moore defeated Chuck Palumbo

Matt Morgan defeated Funaki

Hardcore Holly defeated Akio

Rob Van Dam defeated Jamie Noble

[rdarnz]

Date: March 28th, 2004

Location: Cincinnati, Ohio

WWE Sunday Night Heat

The show opens in a small room, where we see an argument taking place between Paul Heyman and Eric Bischoff. Eventually, the situation is resolved and Bischoff walks off, proclaiming that Heyman could do what he liked on Heat. Paul Heyman looks happy and immediately pulls a mobile phone from his pocket, calling a number before telling them that it would happen tonight.

RAW ReBound

Heyman steps up for his final pick now and drafts Spike Dudley, before Bischoff does the same, but to his disbelief pulls Heyman's name out. The RAW locker-room is distraught, whilst the SmackDown stars celebrate. As Heyman turns to walk out, Vince McMahon comes out onto the stage, saying that the pair would have to co-operate, and work alongside Steve Austin, because the draft decision would stay and RAW now had three significant figures of authority.

Garrison Cade is walking through the parking lot, as Test approaches him. Test asks whether he has given any thought to who his next tag team partner would be. In response, Cade told him that he had ideas and he wasn’t one of them. Test appeared highly enraged, but curbed his anger and walked away cursing at Cade’s ignorance.

Nidia defeated Jazz in a match that was made to see where her loyalties were, and also to allow her to sample the strength of competition over here on the RAW side of things. After the match that Nidia won with a well-placed suplex, Molly Holly and Gail Kim rushed to help Jazz up causing Victoria and Jacqueline to simultaneously enter in an attempt to prevent Molly and Gail from getting near their new found ally and friend.

RAW ReBound

Eddie Guerrero drew with Triple H in a solid match, that saw Ric Flair and Batista come down to interfere, only to be met by John Cena and Rey Mysterio. Shawn Michaels then came down, super-kicking Triple H before leaping onto the brawlers, Eddie then went for the Frog Splash, but was pushed down by Christian, who was then met by Rob Van Dam who in turn downed him. These guys all brawled, until Steve Austin made his way out, bringing more superstars who all joined the brawl as the show went off air.

Garrison Cade defeated Maven by pinfall after a failed dropkick from the top rope by Maven. Cade and Maven both showed that the future was looking good, and after the match it seemed an alliance had been formed as Maven stood and shook hands with Garrison Cade, leaving him kind of shocked, though he had a sly grin etched across his face.

RAW ReBound

Bischoff heads to the ring, not too happy and is met by the return of Edge, who hits the ring and takes out Bischoff with a spear. Paul Heyman is seen laughing at the top of the ramp, until Edge turns his attentions in that direction, causing Heyman to run off.

Scott Steiner is shown backstage, as he assaults the innocent RAW newcomer, Tajiri, who draws sympathy from the crowd, after being hammered to the ground by the bigger, stronger guy, who proclaims that Tajiri didn’t belong here, but rather on the second rate production known as SmackDown. Tajiri was bleeding heavily as medics helped him roll onto a stretcher, with Steiner looking on happy with the pain he had caused.

Tommy Dreamer defeated Rhyno in a hardcore match made earlier, behind the scenes by their former ECW boss and a member of the RAW authority team, Paul Heyman. Dreamer nailed a vicious chair shot for the win, though he took a fair share of shots with various weapons that littered the ring. Rhyno was angry at his loss and was kicking the ring post as the show went off air.

Quick Results

Nidia defeated Jazz

Garrison Cade defeated Maven

Tommy Dreamer defeated Rhyno

[rdarnz]

Monday Night RAW Preview

Cincinnati, Ohio is the setting for RAW this week, and we shall see how the new authority team manages to cope working alongside each other. Paul Heyman and Eric Bischoff literally hate each other, so tension is guaranteed, especially when someone as combustible as Steve Austin is also added to the mix.

A key question for many fans concerns whether Evolution will continue or not, after seeing the departure of their leader, Triple H to SmackDown on last week’s show. Many expect Ric Flair to continue to lead the two younger stars onwards. Speaking of which, Randy Orton will definitely want to speak after pinning Mick Foley at WrestleMania XX. Evolution will also be at ringside t is expected when Ric Flair meets the current champion, Chris Benoit.

One of the newest stars on RAW, Tajiri will be in action tonight, and he will look to avenge a vicious assault he suffered on Sunday Night Heat at the hands of Scott Steiner. Big Poppa Pump is back after missing out on an appearance at Mania and will be looking to take his anger out on the Japanese star.

Booker T will also be in action tonight, and will be looking to take out his frustration on his opponent, Rodney Mack. Booker lost the tag titles on last week’s RAW, then saw any chance of a re-match disappear as Rob Van Dam was drafted to SmackDown, Booker is angry and will look to easily overcome Mack on his path back to greatness, hopefully.

In the final match already announced, another new star to RAW, Shelton Benjamin will look to debut in style. Benjamin has proven his worth as part of a great tag team, but now he must prove that he can go it alone against one of the greatest stars of his generation, Shawn Michaels. With contrasting styles, both men should work together and allow for us to see a great match tonight.

Make sure you watch RAW, live every Monday night, delivering hard-hitting entertainment, only on Spike TV.

Confirmed Matches

Tajiri [vs] Scott Steiner

Booker T [vs] Rodney Mack

Shelton Benjamin [vs] Shawn Michaels

Ric Flair [vs] Chris Benoit

[rdarnz]

Date: March 29th, 2004

Location: Cincinnati, Ohio

WWE Monday Night RAW

RAW opens with the music of Evolution, as Ric Flair, Batista and Randy Orton make their way to the ring. Flair says that they are still the biggest force in sports entertainment, despite Hunter’s departure. Flair continues on, saying that he is fed up with the lack of respect being shown to certain Evolution members, especially the Legend Killer, Randy Orton. Randy takes the microphone and talks about pinning Mick Foley at WrestleMania, and how the Hardcore Legend had been killed, and added to his list.

Mick Foley’s music hits, interrupting Orton, and Foley appears on the RAW stage saying that you can’t kill a Hardcore Legend in a handicap match and the only way to kill a hardcore legend was without rules. Foley continues, challenging Randy Orton to a hardcore match at BackLash. This brings Bischoff out onto the stage saying that he can’t allow such a match, especially if it involves someone seen in the new generation of RAW superstars.

Bischoff however is soon interrupted as Steve Austin comes out onto the stage, asking the crowd what they want. The crowd obviously respond in Foley’s favour to the horror of all three Evolution members. Bischoff is arguing with Austin as Paul Heyman’s music hits and he enters the fray saying that he had seen these matches all the time in ECW, but continued to announce further stipulations. Heyman said that Evolution would be barred from ringside and that falls count anywhere inside or outside the arena. Orton grinned at the second announcement, before getting on the microphone and suggesting one more stipulation, being that the title would be on the line.

Tajiri defeated Scott Steiner following a disqualification decision by the referee. Steiner had dominated the smaller opponent, and ended the match with a hard steel chair shot to Tajiri’s head, leaving him unconscious on the mat. Steiner was literally dragged away by officials after the match following the vicious assault.

Christian is backstage, and Trish Stratus can’t keep her hands off of him. Eventually, she subsides for a moment as Christian speaks to her, informing her that in order to be successful they needed someone to watch their backs. He says how all great champions do this, pointing out Shawn Michaels’ partnership with Diesel and also the partnership Triple H had, with Evolution watching his back. He tells Trish that he had found someone, but also says that he would wait and introduce the new recruit next week.

Kane is in the ring on return from a short commercial break, and he speaks of being beaten by his brother at WrestleMania and that he needed to redeem himself at BackLash by making someone his sacrifice. As he leaves the ring he pulls his arms down, but instead of the usual red flames he is met by blue flames emitting from the ring posts. He doesn’t think much of it though as he leaves the ring.

Booker T defeated Rodney Mack in a squash match, with Booker easily setting up his opponent and nailing all his signature moves. This match even saw a return of his old Houston Hangover move. Afterwards, Booker celebrated with a spin-a-roonie before heading to the back.

We cut to a room loaded with ECW memorabilia, obviously the office of Paul Heyman. Heyman is talking on the phone as Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley enter, demanding that Paul uses his connections to benefit them. Heyman makes no promises but tells them that he has something lined up that they are sure to like. As the Dudley Boyz leave, they spot a photo of them as ECW Tag Team champions, and Paul tells them that it would be just like the old days again.

Shawn Michaels is walking backstage, when he runs into Evolution members, Ric Flair and Batista. After staring them down, Shawn Michaels starts laughing about Triple H’s departure taunting the trio who respond by advancing on him. Shawn Michaels manages to get away, though as he heads of towards the ring leaving the trio annoyed and seething with anger.

Shawn Michaels defeated Shelton Benjamin after a great display of high-flying and technical ability by both men. After the match Chris Benoit showed up on the ramp and almost sarcastically started applauded Shawn Michaels. Both Benoit and Michaels were soon deal with; though as Evolution showed up to attack both men with Flair focusing on Benoit whilst Batista and Orton assaulted Michaels.

Chris Jericho is in the ring with the Highlight Reel props already set up behind him. He talks for a moment stating that Christian needed a bodyguard, considering the revenge he had planned for Christian and Trish, before going on to introduce his guest, the returning Edge. Jericho talks with Edge about his injury lay-off before being rudely interrupted.

Johnny Nitro struts down to the ring and gets on the microphone saying that his boss had sent him down to close this crappy talk show? Edge and Jericho ask which boss, obviously teasing Bischoff about being part of the three-man strong authority group. Edge and Jericho both go to assault Nitro, but in the end, Jericho stands back and watches as Edge attacks. Nitro, however slides from the ring, and speaks, challenging Edge to a match, rather stupidly I might add.

Edge defeated Johnny Nitro in an alright contest that was carried totally by Edge, despite it being his return match. Nitro showed about two moves as Edge took the victory, following a Spear. Afterwards Edge hung around in the ring, drawing in the cheers from the crowd. Eventually he turns to leave the ring and head up the ramp.

Edge hasn’t reached the top of the ramp, as Steve Austin’s music hits to the delight of the fans. He heads down the ramp and grabs a microphone, calling back Edge before offering him a match against anyone for shutting the Bischoff’s apprentice up. Edge appears happy at this, but tells Austin that he’d get back to him next week, once he had thought it over.

Ric Flair defeated Chris Benoit in a great technical contest that saw Benoit eventually give up to the figure four leg lock, but only after Batista hit the referee, allowing Randy Orton to hit Benoit with an R-KO. After the match Shawn Michaels came to the ring to help Benoit get away it would seem, though instead he hit Benoit with some Sweet Chin Music before leaving via the crowd.

Quick Results

Scott Steiner defeated Tajiri

Booker T defeated Rodney Mack

Shawn Michaels defeated Shelton Benjamin

Edge defeated Johnny Nitro

Ric Flair defeated Chris Benoit

Edited June 19, 2005 by rdarnz

[rdarnz]

SmackDown Preview

Columbus in the state of Ohio plays host this Thursday night to a changed SmackDown. Last week, we saw a new authority figure arrive in the form of William Regal. Vince McMahon however didn’t state that he had a full-time position, and didn’t name him General Manager, instead placing him as the official Commissioner. Was it a one night only placement?

One thing is for certain and that is Triple H is very uncomfortable in the waters of the SmackDown brand, something that was clearly proven as he lost last week to Eddie Guerrero. He also found time to slate the show as the home of nobodies and threaten our new commissioner, William Regal. We must ask what he will do this week, especially considering he is uncomfortable without Evolution at his side.

Speaking again of the new commissioner here on SmackDown, he made an announcement last week, concerning Eddie Guerrero’s World title defence at Judgement Day. Tonight, he will announce the trio of men he feels can compete with Eddie. Also, in a match made by him, we shall see Chavo Guerrero defend his Cruiserweight title for the first time since WrestleMania, against Shannon Moore, who got a major win over Chuck Palumbo on Velocity.

In another match already booked for tonight’s show, we will see both tag team champions in action. After Rikishi fended off Danny Basham and his brother last week, we shall see Kyo Dai attempt to gain a shot at the titles, by defeating the champions. A lose however will see Tajiri’s former henchmen move out of the title picture once more.

Finally, trouble is brewing over the United States titles, as we saw last week, when John Cena was chased from the ring by both Rene Dupree and The Big Show. With two guys gunning for his crown as the champion, what will Cena do to defend himself from the onslaught that is almost guaranteed this week?

Make sure you watch SmackDown, this Thursday as a night of intense action is guaranteed, only on UPN.

Confirmed Matches

Shannon Moore [vs] Chavo Guerrero

Too Cool [vs] Kyo Dai

John Bradshaw Layfield [vs] Rob Van Dam

[rdarnz]

Date: April 1st, 2004

Location: Columbus, Ohio

WWE SmackDown

SmackDown opens with Rey Mysterio talking to Eddie Guerrero in their locker-room, Rey tells Eddie that everyone is after him, because he is the WWE champion but is met by Eddie’s response telling him that he’d rather be the prey than the predator because Latino Heat fights better under pressure. Rey offers Eddie luck before telling Eddie to get ready because tonight in the main event he was facing Triple H and The Big Show, with John Cena as his partner. Rey then leaves the room, as Eddie sits down muttering whilst he polishes the title belt.

Rene Dupree comes down to the ring and starts waving his French flag, before insulting a group of American troops, on leave from Iraq and sitting in the front row. This provokes the group to stand up and start yelling at him, before one climbs the barricade and into the ring, pulling off his cap to reveal himself as John Cena. Cena looks ready to fight, but the pair is interrupted by Regal who tells Cena that a match is already awaiting him tonight. As for Dupree, William Regal invites him for a cup of tea in his office, because there was something he needed to discuss with the Frenchman.

Charlie Haas defeated Funaki who was obviously still suffering from the beat down he suffered at the hands of the FBI and Matt Morgan last week. Charlie Haas pulled out the win, with some help from Mark Jindrak who distracted the referee long enough for a low blow to be utilised. They celebrated their victory after the match together, but got interrupted.

That interruption was by the commissioner, William Regal who came down to the ring and stopped Charlie Haas and Mark Jindrak, informing them that they would be in a match next week, against two of the toughest men on SmackDown, Hardcore Holly and Billy Gunn. This announcement was quickly followed by a sneak attack on Haas and Jindrak with Holly and Gunn finishing the segment, standing on the ramp, arms waving to the crowd in celebration.

Too Cool defeated Kyo Dai with the latter team seeming worthless, without Tajiri by their sides. The match ended with Sakoda on the receiving end of a Stinkface from Rikishi, whilst Akio got hit by Scotty II Hotty with the Worm. Much like on the last show, Rikishi and Scotty II Hotty danced to celebrate their victory.

Triple H makes his way down to the ring, and after insulting both tag teams that had just competed, he gets straight to his point, speaking of how Eddie Guerrero had no integrity, especially living by a motto of lying, cheating and stealing, whilst John Cena was a thug that shouldn’t be in a wrestling ring, but getting beaten up on the streets. He makes further insults about the pair of them before introducing his partner for tonight, The Big Show, with whom he shakes hands then speaks of past successes alongside Show. Show then gets on the microphone and says that although Rene Dupree’s stunt earlier was good, it wasn’t great and that someone his size could pull off double the prank.

A short video recap is shown of the tournament that was held on Velocity, looking at the matches involving the four cruiserweights, it focuses mainly on then attack by the Full Blooded Italians, that virtually guaranteed Funaki’s loss, before then looking at the shock win that Shannon Moore pulled off over Chuck Palumbo. It ends with a graphic hyping tonight’s Cruiserweight title defence, that is up next.

Chavo Guerrero defeated Shannon Moore in somewhat of a squash match, but still managing to put on an amazing display of high-flying and technical ability. Chavo couldn’t resist cheating, though and got the pinfall with help from his father, Chavo Classic, who held Moore’s arms down without the referee noticing. Afterwards, Chavo celebrates retaining his title with his father in the ring.

John Bradshaw Layfield comes out, this week in a limousine with bull horns on the front. The crowd boo his arrival as he steps out, patting the limousine as he passes it before climbing into the ring. Once there, he makes individual insults to some fans, before saying that he didn’t appreciate them because they didn’t show him any respect. This causes a massive reaction of jeering from the crowd, and JBL re-iterates that he is a real American, not everyone in the crowd.

He is cut off eventually by his opponent, as Rob Van Dam walks out, takes one look at the limousine, and to JBL’s frustration climbs onto the roof to do his taunt. JBL by this time is yelling on the microphone about having to pay the insurance, but Van Dam seems happy to ignore him, as he now opens the door and takes a look inside and then walks down to the ring, sporting his find, a cowboy hat. John Bradshaw Layfield is seriously annoyed and upset as Van Dam slides into the ring.

Rob Van Dam defeated John Bradshaw Layfield in a poor contest, due to the contrasting styles of the two men. The involvement of a steel chair whilst the referee was down saw some decent moves from both guys though, courtesy of their hardcore pasts. After pinning Bradshaw with a Five Star Frog Splash, the two guys stare each other down, with intent to obviously continue this rivalry.

William Regal came down to the ring, and climbed into it this time, getting a microphone and speaking almost straight away about the three men he saw worthy of being crowned the champion. He says he shall introduce each star one-by-one then it is their decision if they come down to the ring. The first superstar is The Undertaker, and apart from the lights in the arena flickering, nothing happens. Next was The Big Show, somewhat unsurprisingly and finally Regal announced that Kurt Angle had also been chosen.

Backstage, as Regal arrives there, Triple H is looking irate, whilst The Big Show looks fairy happy with the announcement. Triple H verbally and physically intimidates Regal, and says that revenge will be sweet and that Regal had better watch his back, because The Game wasn’t one that enjoyed being played. Triple H then walks off, as we also see Eddie Guerrero and John Cena in the background, heading the same way.

Eddie Guerrero and John Cena defeated Triple H and The Big Show in a match that seemed more like a brawl for the most part. Eddie’s work with Triple H was the best wrestling, but the pinfall victory went to Cena, who hit an F-U to Triple H, before Eddie hit a Frog Splash, and then distracted Big Show. After the match, Triple H fought back and threw Eddie down, only to be met by The Undertaker’s gong echoing across the arena, again. The show ends with Triple H staring towards the ramp, as the others scarper.

Quick Results

Charlie Haas defeated Funaki

Too Cool defeated Kyo Dai

Chavo Guerrero defeated Shannon Moore

Rob Van Dam defeated John Bradshaw Layfield

Eddie Guerrero and John Cena defeated Triple H and The Big Show

[rdarnz]

Date: April 3rd, 2004

Location: Columbus, Ohio

WWE Velocity

Once again Velocity opens with William Regal. This time however he is putting up a sign next to his office door offering a position as the creative consultant on Velocity, which says to apply within. Regal then turns to the camera and quickly explains that he needs someone to book the matches on Velocity but they'd need to prove themselves to him, of course. He then announces the main event tonight between the Full Blooded Italians and Basham Brothers.

Paul London defeated Matt Cappotelli in a match where London showed off some great aerial moves. Billy Kidman was down at ringside with him, and both sported white jackets with navy dragons etched on the back. The result came when Cappotelli fell prey to a 450 Splash, though the Tough Enough guy did show some decent potential and may possibly be considered to become a Velocity regular.

SmackDown ReBound

William Regal came down to the ring, and climbed into it this time, getting a microphone and speaking almost straight away about the three men he saw worthy of being crowned the champion. He says he shall introduce each star one-by-one then it is their decision if they come down to the ring. The first superstar is The Undertaker, and apart from the lights in the arena flickering, nothing happens. Next was The Big Show, somewhat unsurprisingly and finally Regal announced that Kurt Angle had also been chosen.

The Full Blooded Italian trio enter William Regal's office after Nunzio had spotted the sign outside. They talk to Regal, well Nunzio does and tells him that they are ideal for the job saying that three European brains were better than one American brain. Regal tells them he'll think it over, but in the meantime that they have a match to prepare for.

Jamie Noble drew with Orlando Jordan in a match that highlighted a couple of severe weaknesses in the offense of both guys. The match was however going fairly well until A-Train arrived on the scene, yelling on the microphone that he wanted a match before destroying the pair in the ring, then leaving just as suddenly as he had arrived.

SmackDown ReBound

Triple H makes his way down to the ring, and after insulting both tag teams that had just competed, he gets straight to his point, speaking of how Eddie Guerrero had no integrity, especially living by a motto of lying, cheating and stealing, whilst John Cena was a thug that shouldn’t be in a wrestling ring, but getting beaten up on the streets. He makes further insults about the pair of them before introducing his partner for tonight, The Big Show, with whom he shakes hands then speaks of past successes alongside Show. Show then gets on the microphone and says that although Rene Dupree’s stunt earlier was good, it wasn’t great and that someone his size could pull off double the prank.

Another segment and we are back in William Regal's office, as Spike Dudley enters asking Regal whether the position was still vacant. Spike says that he wanted to be boss for once instead of being bossed around, to which Regal responds that he knows how that feels. He says to Spike that he has a good chance of getting it, but he needs to have a match on next week's Velocity to prove his worth, first.

SmackDown ReBound

SmackDown opens with Rey Mysterio talking to Eddie Guerrero in their locker-room, Rey tells Eddie that everyone is after him, because he is the WWE champion but is met by Eddie’s response telling him that he’d rather be the prey than the predator because Latino Heat fights better under pressure. Rey offers Eddie luck before telling Eddie to get ready because tonight in the main event he was facing Triple H and The Big Show, with John Cena as his partner. Rey then leaves the room, as Eddie sits down muttering whilst he polishes the title belt.

Basham Brothers defeated Full Blooded Italians courtesy of interference by Rob Van Dam, who even the Basham Brothers looked strangely at. Van Dam actually got jeered by the crowd as he knocked Nunzio off the top rope, allowing a cheap roll-up victory for Doug Basham and his brother. JBL came out onto the ramp and started clapping as the show ended, leaving the fans intrigued.

Quick Results

Paul London defeated Matt Cappotelli

Jamie Noble drew with Orlando Jordan

Basham Brothers defeated Full Blooded Italians

[rdarnz]

Date: April 4th, 2004

Location: Houston, Texas

WWE Sunday Night Heat

Paul Heyman is grinning in his office as Heat hits the airwaves, but is soon interrupted as Molly Holly and Gail Kim burst into the room requesting a match against Nidia. Heyman agrees but makes it a little fairer by giving Nidia a partner who he then announces as the Womens' Champion, Victoria to the annoyance of Molly Holly.

RAW ReBound

Bischoff however is soon interrupted as Steve Austin comes out onto the stage, asking the crowd what they want. The crowd obviously respond in Foley’s favour to the horror of all three Evolution members. Bischoff is arguing with Austin as Paul Heyman’s music hits and he enters the fray saying that he had seen these matches all the time in ECW, but continued to announce further stipulations. Heyman said that Evolution would be barred from ringside and that falls count anywhere inside or outside the arena. Orton grinned at the second announcement, before getting on the microphone and suggesting one more stipulation, being that the title would be on the line.

Lance Storm is interviewed by the new interviewer on Heat, Christopher Nowinski. Storm says that he is fed up of being mis-treated and under-utilised on RAW and how he would much rather have been sent to SmackDown beacuse maybe then he could be appreciated. Nowinski agrees with him, but as they walk away Paul Heyman arrives attempting to suck up to Storm, only to be hit with a hard uppercut by the Canadian.

Victoria and Nidia defeated Molly Holly and Gail Kim to prove once again that Nidia was backing the champion in the battle for female superiority. Gail Kim impressed, showing off some more new subissions, whilst Molly struggled to keep her wig on, and this was how Victoria won, capitalising by ripping the wig off before hitting the Widow's Peak and making a quick getaway with Nidia after the match.

RAW ReBound

Christian is backstage, and Trish Stratus can’t keep her hands off of him. Eventually, she subsides for a moment as Christian speaks to her, informing her that in order to be successful they needed someone to watch their backs. He says how all great champions do this, pointing out Shawn Michaels’ partnership with Diesel and also the partnership Triple H had, with Evolution watching his back. He tells Trish that he had found someone, but also says that he would wait and introduce the new recruit next week.

Rhyno is spoken to by Steve Austin backstage who tells him that Lance Storm needs to be taught a lesson, for commenting that SmackDown was the better show, and not forgetting his attack on some has-been authority guy trying to steal Austins's job. Austin rambles on about RAW being great, before ending it with one of his catchphrases, and that's the bottom line because Stone Cold said so.

Rhyno defeated Lance Storm and looked stronger than ever, powering out of almost every technical or submission move attempted by Storm. Storm got angry banging the turnbuckle, and eventually turned around only to be struck hard with the Gore whicxh allowed Rhyno to grab a pinfall victory.

RAW ReBound

Edge hasn’t reached the top of the ramp, as Steve Austin’s music hits to the delight of the fans. He heads down the ramp and grabs a microphone, calling back Edge before offering him a match against anyone for shutting the Bischoff’s apprentice up. Edge appears happy at this, but tells Austin that he’d get back to him next week, once he had thought it over.

Maven is talking on his mobile phone in the backstage area, as Garrison Cade walks over. After a short discussion, Cade and Maven say that they'll announce it next week, before heading off in the same direction. However, as they walk away Test shows up and starts insulting Cade, only to be double-teamed by this new youthful pairing of Maven and Cade.

Test defeated Rico after overcoming a whole range of gay tactics including kisses, ass pinches and even having Rico ride him. Test looked dominate and eventually nailed his opponent with a huge shoulder-breaker to pull out the victory. Afterwards, he celebrated by inviting some lovely-looking ladies from the crowd to join him in the ring.

Quick Results

Victoria and Nidia defeated Molly Holly and Gail Kim

Rhyno defeated Lance Storm

Test defeated Rico

[rdarnz]

Monday Night RAW Preview

RAW hits our screens live from Houston, Texas and Paul Heyman, Steve Austin and Eric Bischoff will no doubt deliver yet another night of great entertainment, especially considering the events of last week's show, where Mick Foley saw a major challenge accepted by the so-called Legend Killer.

That challenge, along with Shawn Michaels request to face Chris Benoit makes for an interesting main event tonight, as we see a team consisting of Benoit, Michaels and Foley face the remaing three members of Evolution. Michaels and Benoit have been hostile towards each other for a while and will ahve to work together if they are to help beat Evolution.

Scott Steiner will be in action again on RAW, and has looked pretty good since his return. Tonight, he faces the man beast, Rhyno and will surely also be watching out for Tajiri who has been a thorn in his side oer the past weeks since his arrival from SmackDown. We expect him to struggle with the challenge of beating Rhyno whilst watching his back in case Tajiri becomes involved.

Christian has a major announcement concering a new bodyguard this week, and will look for him to watch his back as he takes on one of RAW's own super heroes, The Hurricane. With Rosey outside the ring watching the back of his partner, it is almost guarenteed that Christian will bring out his new guy. Inside the ring however a top match is expected from this pair.

With BackLash only a few weeks away, we can also expect some more matches to be made or changed, especially with the power struggle we have been seeing between Paul Heyman and Eric Bischoff. We really don't know what else to expect as another unpredictable RAW show hits your screens.

Make sure you watch RAW, live every Monday night, delivering top notch entertainment, only on Spike TV.

Confirmed Matches

Scott Steiner [vs] Rhyno

Christian [vs] The Hurricane

Chris Benoit, Mick Foley and Shawn Michaels [vs] Ric Flair, Randy Orton and Batista

[rdarnz]

Date: April 5th, 2004

Location: Houston, Texas

WWE Monday Night RAW

RAW opens in a dark room, zoomed in on Mick Foley's torn ear lobe, Foley talks slowly saying that the pain he has felt would kill some men, and that he planned to let Randy Orton feel some of that pain. The camera now focuses on the shadowy figure of Mick Foley sitting on a single chair in the darkness, as he continues talking, mainly about his hardcore past in Japan and how he has suffered all sorts of torture and pain at the hands of various Japanese westlers, but also about how he has given back a lot of this pain by putting on great performances. As the camera continues to watch him threaten Randy Orton, Foley pulls out a barbed wre baseball bat and tells Orton that his bat 'Barbie' was hungry for his blood.

Randy Orton who is watching all of this is legitaimately shocked by the promo just cut, and when questioned backstage by Todd Grisham he remains speechless. Ric Flair steps in, shoving Grisham away, before attempting to re-assure him by telling Orton that in the weeks before BackLash he still had Evolution by his side and that between them they could injure Mick Foley to the degree where he will be unable to compete. Batista agrees, and the trio walk off as a group, towards their locker-room.

Rhyno defeated Scott Steiner after Tajiri enetered and sparyed green mist in the face of Scott Steiner, causing him to step straight ijnto the path of a Gore from Rhyno. The match saw the more technical nature of Rhyno's offence clash a bit with the brawling based offence of Steiner. They seemed to overcome it most of the time but a few blown moves were noticeable.Steiner stayed down on the canvas afterwards, as Rhyno left quickly.

Tajiri walks up onto the ramp now, laughing at Scott Steiner and asks for a match. This provokes the appearance of two authority figures, Paul Heyman and Eric Bischoff, who is accompanies by Coach. These two say that Tajiri can have his match at BackLash, though they would put a stipulation to it. Heyman suggests that it be a hardcore match, whilst Bischoff says it should be in a cage, and the two General Managers argue until Steve Austin's music hits and he enters to a huge pop. He tells Bischoff and Heyman that they are both idiots and should learn to get along, before hitting both guys with a Stunner and telling Tajiri that the stipulation would be decided next week, in a match between Tajiri and Coach. If Coach won, Bischoff chose, whilst if Tajiri won, it would be Heyman's choice. Coach looks annoyed at Austin and gets a Stunner for his troubles, as Austin drinks a beer with Tajiri, before too hitting him with a Stunner.

Johnny Nitro is backstage and as Coach returns rubbing his head, Nitro rubs in the fact that he has to compete against Tajiri, only for Austin to show up and say that Johnny Nitro would compete tonight, which is met by laughter from Coach, who then runs away as Austin threatens to hit him again with the Stunner. Nitro is told that because he interrupted the Highlight Reel last week, Chris Jericho would earn a chance at revenge tonight, up next.

Chris Jericho defeated Johnny Nitro in a short match that showcased Jericho's ability to cover up a weaker man's poor performance. Jericho won it after hitting a lionsault, folllowed by locking into the Walls Of Jericho where we saw Nitro tap out. Jericho gets on the microphone after the match threatening Christian, referring mainly back to the events between them at WrestleMania XX.

Christian is watching this match with Trish Stratus sitting on his lap, and after seeing the threats made by Jericho he laughs, before making out with Trish in similar fashion to that WrestleMania moment. He then pushes her gently away as they announce thei new bodyguard. A big dude comes in, and introduces himself as Aaron Aguilera saying that he was in Christian's debt for giving him such a great oppurtunity. Christian tells him to stop trying to lick his ass and instead get outside the room to keep watch. As Aguilera closes the door Christian and Trish continue making out.

Maven and Garrison Cade are shown stepping from a limousine in the parking lot and are met almost immediately by Paul Heyman, looking angry following his earlier Stunner. He tells them that they may arrive in style but they'd have to prove their worth in the ring in a few minutes, because they were going to face Booker T and Shelton Benjamin in their first ever match as a team. Maven and Cade look a little upset, but more excited really at the prospect of teaming up.

Booker T and Shelton Benjamin defeated Maven and Garrison Cade after showing some great teamwork despite it being their first match together. Shelton picks up the pinfall over Garrison Cade after nailing him with a T-Bone Suplex, whilst Booker T brawled with Maven on the outside. After the match Cade and Maven stumbled up the ramp, before grabbing a microphone each and verbally insulting the other team with a heap of racist taunts.

Kane enters the ring with all his usual pyros going off this week and says that he had thought about his sacrifice and would speak to his boss about it. Kane then says that a new fire burned inside of him since being beaten by his brother once again, he said that a flame had been re-ignited in recent weeks and was burning with desire to destroy someone. As he leaves the ring, the lights in the arena flicker, before dimming to a deep shade of red. Kane pretty much ignores this, though most fans notice it.

The Dudley Boyz are backstage and find themselves being interviewed by Todd Grisham who questions who they will be facing next. They say that although they wanted revenge on Ric Flair and Batista once again, they would prefer to beat another team, maybe La Resistance or this new team of Cade and Maven. They then say that they will dominate the RAW tag division and that their way will be the right way, especially sas they have their past with Paul Heyman.

Christian defeated The Hurricane in a highly entertaining contest, with a mix of risky moves, as well as mat-based work and some super powers being thrown in for good measure. Christian stole a victory with Hurricane focusing on his partner, Rosey who at the time was being assaulted by Christian's bodyguard, Aaron Aguilera. Afterwards, Christian and Trish left, with Aguilera following closely behind.

As they reach the top of the ramp though Christian turns to the crowd in celebration, not noticing as Edge enters and insults Christian quickly before spearing him into the metal and saying that he was never a great partner anyway. Edge is soon chased away by Aaron Aguilera but the damage has been done, with Trish Stratus screaming for the medics to come help her Christian. Eventually, the medics help and Trish walks away cursing Aguilera and Edge.

Ric Flair and Batista are shown in the locker-room discussing what they needed to do about Mick Foley. When Randy Orton enters the room they stop speaking about that, instead telling him that tonight they were going to go out there and do themselves proud, and that Evolution would reign supreme. Randy leads them away and Batista and Flair still have slightly fearful looks on their faces as they follow behind him. Evolution run into Eric Bischoff and then the other team en-route and after a short stare-down, Batista literally wrenches Foley's baseball bat away from him at Bischoff's command. He hands it to Bischoff who walks away a lot happier with himself.

Ric Flair, Randy Orton and Batista defeated Chris Benoit, Mick Foley and Shawn Michaels with the face team showing some great skill, though they lost after an argument between Benoit and Michaels turned into a brawl, and with the referee distracted Evolution took advantage, allowing Orton to nail Mick Foley from behind with a steel chair and claim the win in that way. Afterwards, Benoit and Michaels continued to brawl, whilst Mick Foley suffered a three-on-one beat down.

Quick Results

Rhyno defeated Scott Steiner

Chris Jericho defeated Johnny Nitro

Booker T and Shelton Benjamin defeated Maven and Garrison Cade

Christian defeated The Hurricane

Ric Flair, Randy Orton and Batista defeated Chris Benoit, Mick Foley and Shawn Michaels

[rdarnz]

SmackDown Preview

We hit the state of Texas this week, as SmackDown airs from the hometown of RAW's Shawn Michaels, San Antonio. The Texas crowd had better be ready for some action as we have an amazing night already lined up, with more matches to come. We will also hear news from Regal on his decision concerning Velocity and the new position available for any superstar as creative consultant. He will be telling the world exactly what this position will entail.

As announced last week, after their brutal attack on Funaki, Charlie Haas and his new partner, Mark Jindra will be facing one of SmackDown's toughest teams, consisting of Hardcore Holly and Billy Gunn. Haas and Jindrak seem determined upon wreaking havoc, and no doubt they will attempt to as they compete. A major doubt though, hangs over whether this fledgling partnership can really compete with the seasoned tough man duo, who have been competing together a lot over the past six moths.

William Regal appears to have everything in order on SmackDown, and tonight we can expect some more anouncements concernign Judgement Day. Regal is expected to announce his decisions involving both the World title defence and the United States title defence. John Cena and Eddie Guerrero will be anxious to hear this, especially considering they hold the belts, however what Regal has in mind is anyone's guess.

Rey Mysterio competes tonight, for the first time since losing out rather unfairly in the WrestleMania XX Crusierweight Open. He has issues with Chavo Guerrero and his father, Chavo Classic, but must focus tonight on Jamie Noble as they face off in a match that will surely highlight their amazing styles. Expect some top lucha-libre movges from Mysterio as he tries to overcome Noble, who will look to take him to the mat.

John Bradshaw Layfield made his arrival two short weeks ago, talking about shares and trades in the stock exchange. His loss last week to Rob Van Dam will hopefully shut him up, or will he decide to bewcome engaged in Van Dam's match against the arrogant French man, Rene Dupree. Dupree meanwhile has to watch his back, especially after getting on the wrong side of United States champion, John Cena since his transfer from RAW.

SmackDown always provides surprises and with Eddie Guerrero, Kurt Angle, The Big Show, Undertaker and Triple H all not yet announced in matches, we can expect an explosive night. All five guys are hungry for success and will be looking to get involved somehow, but in what way we haven't a clue. With Eddie as champion and Triple H being refused a title shot, whilst Show, Angle and Taker found one awaiting them, there will surely be some jealousy between this group.

Make sure you watch SmackDown, this Thursday as a night of non-stop action is guaranteed, only on UPN.

Confirmed Matches

Rey Mysterio [vs] Jamie Noble

Hardcore Holly and Billy Gunn [vs] Charlie Haas and Mark Jindrak

Rene Dupree [vs] Rob Van Dam

[rdarnz]

Date: April 8th, 2004

Location: San Antonio, Texas

WWE SmackDown

SmackDown opens with Eddie Guerrero heading down to the ring in a low-rider as per usual and after soaking up the adoration of his fans he says that whether it is The Big Show, Kurt Angle or The Undertaker after him, he isn't scared. He also said that he had a message from William Regal to deliver, being that all three possible opponents would meet in a triple threat match later tonight, to determine who his eventual opponent would be. With that, we hear The Undertaker's gong and the crowd goes crazy as he steps out on the SmackDown ramp in a cloud of smoke.

Pale purple lighting follows him to the ring, where Eddie Guerrero has moved back to a corner as he steps in. Eddie once again vows that he isn't scared as Taker removes his hat, then snatches the microphone saying quite simply that Eddie had better beware because soon the Deadman would wear the belt. His speech was interrupted though as Triple H's music hit and he walked down to the ring, climbing in and hitting The Undertaker with a flurry of punches as Eddie made a quick get-away. Triple H eventually knoked Taker down, only for him to sit straight back up and nail a Chokeslam followed by the Tombstone on Triple H. He then left the ring, symbolising that everyone else he faced tonight would soon be dead too.

Funaki is backstage and runs straight into the the team of Paul London and Billy Kidman, now known as Shooting Star Express. Funaki asks them in basic English whether they could sort out a couple of guys that have been hassling him recently. This leads to a match being booked by Regal between the team of Shooting Star Express and Funaki against all three of the Full Blooded Italian trio. The team walks away now, towards the ring closely followed by Funaki.

Shooting Star Express and Funaki defeated Full Blooded Italians in a back and forth match that saw the best wrestling when Paul London and Nunzio locked up, with this pair displaying some amazing crusierweight techniques and moves. The result came in this match after a unique move was debuted by Kidman and London, hitting simultaneous Shooting Star Presses on Johnny Stamboli and then tagging in Funaki so he could make the cover. They celebrated after the match, soaking up the new-found adoration of the fans.

Ater both groups have left the ring, Rey Mysterio enters and shortly speaks of his good friend, Eddie Guerrero's success and how Chavo Guerrero is a no-good cheater that doesn't deserve the Guerrero name. This brought Chavo Guerrero and his father, Chavo Classic out and they decided to join the announce team for the match about to start between Rey Mysterio and Jamie Noble. Although at first Mysterio sees them as a distraction, he soon settles and even taunts in their direction a few times as Noble prepares to lock up with the former Cruiserweight champion.

Rey Mysterio defeated Jamie Noble despite an attempted interference by Chavo and his father. Rey Mysterio managed to nail both Chavo Classic and Jamie Noble as he hit the 619, to the delight of the crowd. Whilst Chavo tended to his father, Rey hit a springboard legdrop for the pinfall victory over Noble. After the match, Chavo Guerrero and Chavo Classic assaulted Rey, until the champion, Eddie Guerrero raced down to make the save on behalf of his buddy, Rey Mysterio.

William Regal makes his way down to the ring before calling Rene Dupree and John Cena down. The pair arrive and stare each other down in the ring as Regal announces that at Judgement Day the pair would collide, but not in any old match, it would be a flag match with the winner being the first person to capture their opponents flag. He vowed to give more details on the upcoming shows before the first SmackDown pay-per-view following WrestleMania XX and also stated that the United States title would be up for grabs.

A short video recap is shown of the decision made on Velocity by William Regal, concerning some sort of creative consultant position. William Regal, who ahs remained on the stage to explain exactly what it will entail, says basically that it involves booking matches and also keeping the superstars on Velocity under control during the show. He says that so far he had only received two applications, one from Nunzio and another from Spike Dudley, and that any others would be placed with these two in a match at Judgement Day to determine the first ever Velocity creative consultant.

Charlie Haas and Mark Jindrak defeated Hardcore Holly and Billy Gunn in a match based mainly around the brawling ability of the four rather than their technical ability, though Hardcore Holly and Charlie Haas both showed this side a little with a few suplexes. Jindrak and Haas worked really well as a team, frequently tagging and holding Billy Gunn in their corner for long periods. They pulled out the win when Jindrak took the fight to the outside on Holly, allowing a roll-up by Charlie Haas on the distracted Billy Gunn. Afterwards Holly argued with his partner about the loss, and they walked seperately to the back.

After celebrating thei victory over the more experienced team, Jindrak speaks out, offering an open challenge next week to any tag team that believes they have what it takes to defeat himself and Charlie Haas. Haas then speaks out sarcastically saying to Jindrak that no-one would have the guts to face them. They are soon interrupted as Too Cool's music hits, and the tag team champions walk down to the ring, causing Jindrak and Haas to leap the barricades and sprint away through the crowd, obviously feeling threatened by the champions' presence.

John Bradshaw Layfiuled comes out and speaks to us about how his share price was soon to pick up, especially with a new guy backing him up. He then brings out his new executive partner, The Big Show, who then thanks him for the entrance and basically talks a load of crap about how great his new boss, John Bradshaw Layfield is. Layfield and Show leave, and are then shown backstage where Bradshaw orders him to take out Van Dam in the next match.

Rene Dupree defeated Rob Van Dam in a match that saw their styles clash ever so slightly, with Dupree's brawling and technical wrestling not blending greatly with the unique risk-taking style displayed by Van Dam. The ending of this match came with The Big Show distracting Van Dam, by standing at the top of the ramp and mimicking the R-V-D taunt. Rene Dupree seized the oppurtunity and nailed Van Dam with an Implant DDT for the pinfall victory. His celebration after the match is interrupted, though as John Bradsha Layfield re-enters.

Bradshaw gets onto the microphone and talks of looking for a foreign affairs consultant, an offer being obviously aimed directly to Rene Dupree. Dupree looks pretty hyped about the idea, and therefore doesn't see the attack coming from behind, JBL tries to warn him as Cena climbs into the ring, but Dupree gets hit from behind with a steel chair, and then lifted over Cena's shoulders as he delivers an F-U on the Frenchman. Cena then chases JBL back behind the curtains, as medics help Dupree to his feet, and out of the arena.

Before any superstar enters for the main event, Eddie Guerrero comes down to the ring, and after saying that he'd beat any challenger for his title, be it The Undertaker, The Big Show or Kurt Angle, he didn't care. He then, instead of returning to the backstage area steps down from the ring, and sits down alongside Tazz and Michael Cole at the SmackDown announce table, awaiting the arrival of the three potential contenders to his title.

Kurt Angle defeated The Big Show and The Undertaker after interference by Triple H, who assaulted Undertaker obviously in return for his attack earlier, whilst Rob Van Dam raced down and assaulted The Big Show, nailing him with a huge Van Daminator and then with some help from Angle tossed him from the ring, allowing Angle hit an Angle Slam and then to pin the already downed Undertaker and claim his place in the main event at Judgement Day against Eddie Guerrero in a re-match from WrestleMania XX. The show ends with Angle celebrating, watched from the announce table by the champion, Eddie Guerrero.

Quick Results

Shooting Star Express and Funaki defeated Full Blooded Italians

Rey Mysterio defeated Jamie Noble

Charlie Haas and Mark Jindrak defeated Hardcore Holly and Billy Gunn

Rene Dupree defeated Rob Van Dam

Kurt Angle defeated The Big Show and The Undertaker

[rdarnz]

Date: April 10th, 2004

Location: San Antonio, Texas

WWE Velocity

The show opens with two of the the Full Blooded Italian trio spray-painting their logo in red, white and green over Regal's office door. As they open it we see Nunzio sitting at regal's desk, having replaced much of the Union Jack covered room with Italian flags. This trio are soon interrupted as Funaki shows up with Kidman and London. The trio take cover inside though, as London, Fuanki and Kidman race off to find Regal, who is obviously unaware of the situation unfolding backstage.

Matt Morgan defeated Chris Mordetzky where amazingly Matt Morgan seemed like the better wrestler, brawling around the ring with this development talent. Mordetsky looked to be attempting a lock into the Full Nelson, when Morgan threw him to the corner before nailing him with a huge powerbomb to win the battle of these younger stars.

SmackDown ReBound

After both groups have left the ring, Rey Mysterio enters and shortly speaks of his good friend, Eddie Guerrero's success and how Chavo Guerrero is a no-good cheater that doesn't deserve the Guerrero name. This brought Chavo Guerrero and his father, Chavo Classic out and they decided to join the announce team for the match about to start between Rey Mysterio and Jamie Noble. Although at first Mysterio sees them as a distraction, he soon settles and even taunts in their direction a few times as Noble prepares to lock up with the former Cruiserweight champion.

Shannon Moore defeated Akio with a top rope moonsaulkt after a great contest, that was marred slightly by Sakoda's stance at ringside. Moore and Akio pulled out some great spots with a series of drop-kicks shared between them winning a standing ovation from the crowd, whilst Moore amazed diving over the ropes with a huge crossbody onto both members of Kyo Dai. All said and done, this was one of the best cruiserweight matches offered in recent weeks.

SmackDown ReBound

Bradshaw gets onto the microphone and talks of looking for a foreign affairs consultant, an offer being obviously aimed directly to Rene Dupree. Dupree looks pretty hyped about the idea, and therefore doesn't see the attack coming from behind, JBL tries to warn him as Cena climbs into the ring, but Dupree gets hit from behind with a steel chair, and then lifted over Cena's shoulders as he delivers an F-U on the Frenchman. Cena then chases JBL back behind the curtains, as medics help Dupree to his feet, and out of the arena.

William Regal now arrives, accompanied by Paul London, Billy Kidman, Funaki, Hardcore Holly, Billy Gunn and both Basham Brothers, who appear to have switched their allegiance. Regal tells the trio to get out of his office and down to the ring, because it was going to be Johnny Stamboli against Hardcore Holly, with the rest of them acting as lumberjacks, tonight in the main event.

SmackDown ReBound

Pale purple lighting follows him to the ring, where Eddie Guerrero has moved back to a corner as he steps in. Eddie once again vows that he isn't scared as Taker removes his hat, then snatches the microphone saying quite simply that Eddie had better beware because soon the Deadman would wear the belt. His speech was interrupted though as Triple H's music hit and he walked down to the ring, climbing in and hitting The Undertaker with a flurry of punches as Eddie made a quick get-away. Triple H eventually knoked Taker down, only for him to sit straight back up and nail a Chokeslam followed by the Tombstone on Triple H. He then left the ring, symbolising that everyone else he faced tonight would soon be dead too.

Hardcore Holly drew with Johnny Stamboli with the match as expected ending in a double disqualification, after the men on the outside got involved, assaulting those inside the ring. Holly had dominated the match until this point, though and pulled off a variety of more technical moves, including a series of armbars, an inverted leglock and several types of suplexes, which wore Stamboli down.

Quick Results

Matt Morgan defeated Chris Mordetzky

Shannon Moore defeated Akio

Hardcore Holly drew with Johnny Stamboli

[rdarnz]

Date: April 11th, 2004

Location: Chicago, Illonois

WWE Sunday Night Heat

Once again Heat opens in Paul Heyman's office but this time he has company, in the shape of the Dudley Boyz. They tell him it was two weeks ago that he had something lined up, yet they still haven't heard anything more. Heyman, obviously feeling threatened tells them that they shouldn't worry, because his connections would bear rewards for them, especially seeing as he was booking them in a World Tag Team title match at BackLash, against Ric Flair and Batista. They turn to leave, before Heyman speaks once more, saying that it could only happen if they beat Maven and Garrison Cade tonight.

RAW ReBound

As they reach the top of the ramp though Christian turns to the crowd in celebration, not noticing as Edge enters and insults Christian quickly before spearing him into the metal and saying that he was never a great partner anyway. Edge is soon chased away by Aaron Aguilera but the damage has been done, with Trish Stratus screaming for the medics to come help her Christian. Eventually, the medics help and Trish walks away cursing Aguilera and Edge.

Edge is next up, as Jonathon Coachman interviews him backstage, where he says that he has made a decision about who he wants to face, he then looks to the screen as the video plays again before telling Coach that at BackLash he wanted to face Christian. This provokes the arrival of Aaron Aguilera, who Edge teases saying that he makes a great bodyguard when people can attack his client. This provokes Aguilera who challenges Edge to a match on Heat tonight, which is accepted as Edge continues to tease the big man.

Shelton Benjamin defeated Rodney Mack hitting Mack with a T-Bone Suplex after about seven minutes of brawling and mat work. Mack was hit by a flying cross-body just before the finish and seemed to have injured his ribs. Afterwards, a large group of medics and officials came to the ring to attend to Mack who seemed like he was in major pain as he clutched his rib cage, before being led away on a stretcher.

Whilst this happens in the background, Shelton gets onto a microphone, saying that since no-one had made him a match for BackLash he was going to issue a challenge to anybdy who wanted to step into the ring and be beaten by him. He told them that if no-one had decided by RAW this week, he'd make their decision for them. With that, Shelton walks off, strutting rather arrogantly up the ramp, I must add.

RAW ReBound

Tajiri walks up onto the ramp now, laughing at Scott Steiner and asks for a match. This provokes the appearance of two authority figures, Paul Heyman and Eric Bischoff, who is accompanies by Coach. These two say that Tajiri can have his match at BackLash, though they would put a stipulation to it. Heyman suggests that it be a hardcore match, whilst Bischoff says it should be in a cage, and the two General Managers argue until Steve Austin's music hits and he enters to a huge pop. He tells Bischoff and Heyman that they are both idiots and should learn to get along, before hitting both guys with a Stunner and telling Tajiri that the stipulation would be decided next week, in a match between Tajiri and Coach. If Coach won, Bischoff chose, whilst if Tajiri won, it would be Heyman's choice. Coach looks annoyed at Austin and gets a Stunner for his troubles, as Austin drinks a beer with Tajiri, before too hitting him with a Stunner.

Storm again speaks to Christopher Nowinski, and again he comlains about the fans that boo him and the fact that he only ever seems to be on Heat. Nowinski listens and agrees but the pair are interrupted as Booker T is shown on the monitor behind them, telling Storm to quit complaining because there was a 5-time WcW champion waiting to whoop his ass for insulting the fans. Lance Storm tells Nowinski that if that was an offer, Booker T should consider it accepted and wish he hadn't suggested it, because he was going to tap out to the Maple Leaf at BackLash in Edmonton.

Edge defeated Aaron Aguilera in a short match that was obviously put in to help Edge get rid of his ring rust. Edge won easily, despite being the smaller man, when he hit the opposition with a Spear and then covered for the pinfall victory. He then yelled out to Christian threatening him, but was met by no-one, and was so busy looking at the ramp that he didn't see the Aguilera's axe handle shot that was to down him from behind. Edge was left downed, despite winning the match.

RAW ReBound

RAW opens in a dark room, zoomed in on Mick Foley's torn ear lobe, Foley talks slowly saying that the pain he has felt would kill some men, and that he planned to let Randy Orton feel some of that pain. The camera now focuses on the shadowy figure of Mick Foley sitting on a single chair in the darkness, as he continues talking, mainly about his hardcore past in Japan and how he has suffered all sorts of torture and pain at the hands of various Japanese westlers, but also about how he has given back a lot of this pain by putting on great performances. As the camera continues to watch him threaten Randy Orton, Foley pulls out a barbed wre baseball bat and tells Orton that his bat 'Barbie' was hungry for his blood.

Maven is talking on his mobile phone in the backstage area, as Garrison Cade walks over. After a short discussion, Cade and Maven say that they'll announce it next week, before heading off in the same direction. However, as they walk away Test shows up and starts insulting Cade, only to be double-teamed by this new youthful pairing of Maven and Cade.

Dudley Boyz defeated Maven and Garrison Cade after Test marked his involvement knocking both guys to the outside, before rolling Cade back into the ring so the Dudleyz could hit him with a 3D. Maven attempted to help his partner, but got thrown into the ringpost as a sign of appreciation. Test celebrated after the match with the Dudley Boyz to cheers, whilst the cocky team of Cade and Maven were jeered by the crowd on their exit from the arena.

Quick Results

Shelton Benjamin defeated Rodney Mack

Edge defeated Aaron Aguilera

Dudley Boyz defeated Maven and Garrison Cade

[rdarnz]

Monday Night RAW Preview

RAW hits our screens live from Chicago, Illonois and once again we saw a power struggle last week, as Heyman, Bischoff and Austin just don't get along. Austin dished out Stunners like school dinners, whilst Bischoff got even with a friend of Heyman's, when he had Batista physically remove Barbie, that barbed wire baseball bat from Foley's grasp.

Tonight, we see the final night as we lead into BackLash, and names such as Shelton Benjamin, Kane and Chris Jericho are all looking for a spot on the pay-per-view. Last night on Heat, we saw another pair of matches made too, as Booker T vowed to defeat Lance Storm to shut him up, whilst the Dudley Boyz won themselves a title shot against Ric Flair and Batista at BackLash.

In the main announced match tonight, as we were told of last week, Jonathon Coachman takes on Tajiri, with the winner determining the stipulation Tajiri and Scott Steiner would face off under. If Coach can pull off the shock win, the match will be held inside a steel cage, as per Bischoff's request, whilst if Tajiri wins, it would be a hardcore match, as per Heyman's request.

Christian had a bad week, being assaulted by Edge after his newly-introduced bodyguard, Aaron Aguilera left his side. Aguilera then lost last night to Edge on Heat to make matters worse. We must ask whether Trsih Stratus and her partner, Christian can really trust this lacklustre bodyguard, especially with Edge and Christian set to face off at BackLash.

Finally, we can expect build-up leading into the matches at BackLash, involving Randy Orton and Mick Foley, as well as the BackLash main event, pitching hometown hero, Chris Benoit against Shawn Michaels, who is hated by Canadian fans, ever since the Montreal Incident in 1997. Maybe Benoit will finally settle the score on Sunday, but for tonight, they aren't allowed near each other.

Make sure you watch RAW, live every Monday night, delivering first-class entertainment, only on Spike TV.

Confirmed Matches

Tajiri [vs] Jonathon Coachman

La Resistance [vs] The Hurricane and Rosey

Shawn Michaels [vs] Batista

[rdarnz]

Date: April 12th, 2004

Location: Chicago, Illonois

WWE Monday Night RAW

The show opens with Batista getting prepared in the Evolution locker-room, along with partners, Ric Flair and Randy Orton. Orton is sitting down, looking anxious, obviously in anticipation of his no-holds barred match forthcoming against Mick Foley. Ric Flair attempts to lighten his spirits, offering a glass of champagne and discussing the party they'd have after Orton retained over Foley, but this didn't help, really. Batista says to Flair that maybe they should get tonight out of the way before planning for Sunday. Batista re-assures Orton saying that they'd risk suspension to help him out. This comment however isn't met with any sort of response from Ric Flair.

Test and Booker T defeated Jon Heidenreich and Lance Storm with both Maven and Garrison Cade interferring before the match kicked off and taking Test out of it, with a decent show of brawling. In the ring, Jon Heidenreich and Storm easily overcame Booker, with a powerbomb being hit, before Lance Storm locked onto the Maple Leaf, yelling it was just the start of things to come for Booker. He then hit Booker with a chair to give Test and Booker T the victory, via disqualification.

Mick Foley comes out onto te ramp, and paces back anf orth as he addresses the audience. Mick Foley says he wants to leave a little bit of Randy Orton for Backlash.. Mick Foley says that he's obsessed with all the things he's planning on doing to Randy Orton at Bashlash. Mick Foley says that he's not that kind of person, but he knows somebody who is, going by the name of Cactus Jack! Mick Foley says that he cares about Randy Orton's looks, but Cactus Jack doesn't and starts saying about all of the barbaric things that Jack had done in the past. The crowd went crazy as Foley rpped off his shirt, revealing the shirt of Cactus Jack.

Chris Jericho defeated Shelton Benjamin in a well-planned match that really amazed the crowd with some realy top-notch, pay-per-view quality action. Jericho won after Kane's pyros wnet off on the ramp, distracting Shelton Benjamin for the split second needed for Jericho to lock into the Walls Of Jericho. Jericho soon scarpered though as Kane apporached the ring, only to be blocked by Christian, Aaron Aguilera and Trish Stratus, who walked Jericho back to the ring, where he and Shelton suffered the same fate; chokeslams.

Kane then picks up a microphone and insults Shelton's intelligence, saying he shouldn't have invited the Big Red Machine to sacrifice him, becuase that's what he was doing by making an open challenge. Kane laughs evily as he announces that at BackLash, Eric Bischoff had just confirmed that it would be Kane against Shelton Benjamin in a singles contest. Shelton is still motionless on the canvas as Kane drops the microphone and leaves through the crowd.

Christian follows Kane's lead, and stands over Chris Jericho as he says that he wanted to face Jericho, not Edge at BackLash. He said that Jericho hadn't felt enough punishment, and that Trish knew Christian played rough. However, Jericho has been recovering on the mat, and him and Shelton Benjamin leap up and assault Aaron Aguilera and Christian, leaving Trish standing alone. Shelton chases her away, as Jericho accepts Christian's challenge, which provokes Stone Cold's arrival in the arena.

Stone Cold says that Christian can't have two matches, and that if he wanted to go boking matches, he'd have to consult the Sheriff first. Austin says that at BackLash, instead of Edge against Christian or Christian against Chris Jericho, it would be a triangle match between Edge, Christian and Chris Jericho. By now, back in the ring, Jericho is grinning, not noticing Edge coming from behind, and turning straight into the Spear, as Edge now stands tall and grinning.

La Resistance defeated The Hurricane and Rosey to gain the shot they had supposedly been promised, at the first show after BackLash. It all ended following the Au Revoir being hit to The Hurricane, whilst Rosey was down injured on the outside after being assaulted with the flagpoles that La Resistance carry to the ring. Some of the best action occured between Robert Conway and The Hurricane as they worked a technically sound period of the match together.

Jonathon Coachman is seen getting advice from Eric Bischoff's apprentice, Johnny Nitro. The pair however are interrupted by Paul Heyman who laughs and says that Coach would have to do better than a few punches to beat his man, Tajiri. Tajiri steps out from behind Heyman, grinning in that Japanese way and gives a cut-throat gesture in Coach's direcion, which leave's the interviewer turned competitor not looking too pleased, and quite nervous.

Tajiri defeated Johnathon Coachman in a short contest, that saw Coach hit by kick after kick after kick, before being sprayed by Tajiri's green mist. Steiner attempted to help him out, but got pulled away as Jerry Lawler came down to the ring, showing his hatred of Jonathon Coachman. Afterwards, Lawler returned to the announce desk as Steiner helped the stumbling Coach away, with Tajiri celebrating in the ring.

Chris Benoit is with Todd Grisham backstage, obviously replacing the beaten-up Jonathon Coachman. Benoit delivers a decent promo, putting over the fact that many people didn't believe he had what it takes, and how many think that it was pure luck that he won the World Heavyweight Title. Benoit says that he doesn't believe in luck, but in paying your dues, something he did for eighteen years. He goes on to say that when he beats Shawn Michaels, this Sunday at BackLash, luck will have nothing to do with it.

Benoit is pushed aside though as Shawn Michaels enters, hyped up leading into his big match against Batista. He talks about having luck on his side, and how he hasn't a clue what he's gonna have to do to top the match for the title at WrestleMania XX. He continues on saying there is only one Show Stoppa, and that he would prove that it was him, and despite Benoit believeing he is the best, one man will be there about to prove him wrong. Michaels then jogs away as Benoit is left glaring at him.

Shawn Michaels drew with Batista after firstly Randy Orton interfered, soon knocked down by Mick Foley. Ric Flair then raced down, only to be met by the Dudley Boyz, who are shortly followed by Chris Benoit as the two groups brawl causing a disqualification decision. The brawl continues afterwards and the show ends with all three Evolution members and Shawn Michaels standing tall in the ring, though Michaels is on the opposite side to Evolution.

Quick Results

Test and Booker T defeated Jon Heidenreich and Lance Storm

Chris Jericho defeated Shelton Benjamin

La Resistance defeated The Hurricane and Rosey

Tajiri defeated Johnathon Coachman

Shawn Michaels drew with Batista