WWE: The New Direction

[JairusCain]

Sunday July 16, 2006

Live! From Indianapolis, Indiana

World Wrestling Entertainment Presents: Smackdown’s Great American Bash on PPV

The live broadcast comes onto the air with a special opening video featuring clips about America, as well as clips of recent events here on Smackdown. Following the video is a huge pyrotechnics display. The cameras then race around the arena showing all of the fans and a few of the signs. There are quite a few “BATISTA” signs in the crowd, as well a few Lashley signs, a New Blood sign or two, and a ton of Kurt Angle signs. After a few moments of this, Finlay’s music hits the speakers.

Singles Match

Finlay vs. Rey Mysterio

Finlay’s make his entrance and heads toward the ring. Once in the ring, his music is cut off by that of Rey Mysterio, who gets a huge pop as he shoots up out of his little stage. Mysterio makes is way to the ring, playing to the crowd on his way. Mysterio climbs into the ring and is attacked right away by Finlay. Finlay continues the beat down as Mysterio’s music is cut and the referee calls for the bell. Finlay continues to beat down on Mysterio for a good solid five minutes or so, with Mysterio only getting in a small shot here and there. In the process, Finlay tries to completely destroy Mysterio’s leg, as well as his back. After a few moments, Finlay sends Mysterio into the ropes. Finlay goes for what appears to be a Side Walk Slam, but Mysterio counters it into a Head Scissors Takedown! Mysterio quickly staggers to his feet, holding his knee on the way up. Finlay gets up as soon as he hits the mat, with a look of complete shock and confusion on his face. Mysterio charges at Finlay, but Finlay is ready for him and gives him a Back Body Drop type maneuver, sending Mysterio over the top rope!

BUT, Mysterio lands on his feet on the apron! Finlay, with his back turned to Mysterio, gloats about being one step ahead of him. Mysterio springboards off the top rope with a Drop Kick to the back of Finlay! Finlay hurries to his feet and Mysterio goes for a whip. Finlay reverses! Mysterio comes off the ropes and delivers a drop kick to the knee of Finlay! Finlay starts to get up, but is cut off with another drop kick, this time to the head! Mysterio taunts Finlay as e tries to get to his feet. Finlay finally does get up, and charges at Mysterio! Mysterio with a drop toe hold on Finlay, sending him into the second rope! Mysterio goes for the 619! Wait! NO! Finlay catches Mysterio’s legs and pulls him back into the ring, still holding onto his legs. Finlay begins to spin Mysterio around, like an airplane spin kind of move. He spins him around a few times and then lets go, sending Mysterio flying across the ring and landing on his face! Finlay walks over to Mysterio and pulls him to his feet. Finlay sets him up… EMERALD FUSION! Finlay goes for the cover! 1... 2... NO!!! MYSTERIO KICKS OUT! HOW THE HELL?! Finlay can’t believe it. He gets to his feet and gets in the referee’s face. As Finlay argues with the referee, Mysterio crawls over and… SCHOOL BOY! 1... 2... 3! Finlay kicks out just a SPLIT SECOND too late! Mysterio quickly rolls out of the ring, having won the match! Finlay remains in the ring in utter disbelief.

Winner: Rey Mysterio

Overall Rating: 77%

The cameras cut backstage as the New Blood of the WWE stands together in front of the interviewing set.

Daniels: Later tonight, this company is going to witness an innovation it’s never seen before. World Wrestling Entertainment is going to bare witness to… a wrestling match. Yeah, a wrestling match. Vince, I know wrestling is a dirty word… but deal with it. This wrestling match, I’m going to be heading into it against three other men. First off, is Mike Mizanin… “The Miz.”

Punk: He’s not even a wrestler. He’s a damn reality show cast member that Vince only signed because he’s been on MTV!

Daniels: The second, is Nunzio.

Punk: Haha. Nunzio. He’s not even competition. The man is the size of Joe’s gut!

Joe directs a very cold glare in the direction of Punk, as if he’s about to kill him.

Cabana: Whoa, whoa. Calm down, Joe! Punk was just saying how small your gut is. I mean, look at Nunzio. He’s tiny!

Daniels: And last but not least, we have the Cruiserweight Champion, Gregory Helms. You know, Helms, you used to be a wrestler. You used to be a champion. Six-plus years ago when you were still trying to make a name for yourself in WCW! Ever since you came to the WWE, you’ve become nothing more than a watered down “sports entertainer!” Tonight, I am going to give a perfect example of why we’re here in the WWE. We’re bringing back wrestling. We’re bringing back a style that died over a decade ago in this God forsaken company! Tonight, I’m putting that Cruiserweight Championship around my waist. Tonight, I’m making that championship mean something… like it’s supposed to!

Christopher Daniels turns and heads off screen, followed by CM Punk and Colt Cabana. Samoa Joe lunges at the camera, as if to say “what? You want to fight?” Colt Cabana hurries back on screen and pulls Joe away. Off screen you can hear CM Punk yell “watch out! Joe’s gonna kill you!”

WWE Tag Team Championships

Mercury and Nitro vs. London and Kendrick© w/ Melina

The cameras cut back to the arena as the music of Mercury and Nitro hits the speakers. They make their way out on their red carpet and with their paparazzi. Once they climb into the ring, their music is cut off by London and Kendrick’s music. The WWE Tag Team Champions emerge from the back with Melina at their side. Johnny Nitro and Brian Kendrick start the match. They go back and forth for about a minute or so, with neither man getting a clear cut advantage. However, after that first minute, Nitro lures Kendrick toward his corner, where Mercury lands in a couple of cheap shots, which turns things in their favor. Nitro and Mercury begin to make frequent tags, keeping Kendrick away from his corner, as Melina cheers Kendrick on from the outside. After a couple minutes of being manhandled, Kendrick is on one knee in the middle of the ring. Nitro, with a stiff kick in mind, sends himself off the ropes, only to get tripped up by Melina. With Nitro distracted, Kendrick makes the tag! London jumps into the ring, much to the delight of Melina. London takes down Nitro with a side kick. Mercury comes into the ring only to be taken down with a step up Enziguri. Mercury rolls out of the ring as Nitro gets to his feet. London backs Nitro up into the ropes with right hands and then whips him across the ring. Arm Drag! London keeps a hold on Nitro’s arm. London tightens his grip as he stretches out Nitro’s arm with the Arm Bar.

Nitro tries to break the hold, but it’s no use. After a short while, Mercury comes back into the ring and attacks London from behind! This, of course, brings Kendrick back into the ring. Kendrick goes after Mercury, sending him into the ropes and blasting him with a drop kick to the face! In the meantime, Nitro gets to his feet, but is quickly taken back down by London with a Dropsault! London lands directly on top of Mercury from the Dropsault! London tries to cover Mercury, but the referee reminds him that the legal man is Nitro. London, frustrated, gets up and pulls Nitro to his feet. He goes for a punch but Nitro blocks and begins to fight back. Nitro continues to deliver some punches as Mercury gets back to his feet. Mercury exchanges a few punches with Kendrick before tossing him out of the ring! Nitro sends London into the ropes. As he comes back, Nitro hoists him up as Mercury comes from behind and catches him with a DDT! SNAPSHOT! That was almost like a combination of a Snapshot and a 3D! Mercury plays to the crowd as Nitro goes for the cover! 1... 2... NO! KENDRICK IS THERE TO BREAK IT UP!

Mercury promptly gets on Kendrick again. They exchange some punches until Kendrick sends Mercury into the ropes. Mercury hangs onto the top rope, so as not to head in Kendrick’s direction. Instead, Kendrick charges at him with a Crossbody INTO THE ROPES, sending them both over the top to the outside! Inside the ring, London takes Nitro down near the ropes and then heads to the top. Melina cheers him up as he prepares for the 450! London soars off the top and Melina ducks down next to the apron, having something devious in mind. While she’s ducked down, not seeing what’s in the ring, Nitro moves out of the way of 450! Nitro hurries to his feet. London gets to his feet and is caught with a Superkick right to the jaw! He lands with his foot dangling over the edge of the apron as Nitro goes for the cover! MELINA GRABS HIS LEG! SHE MUST THINK IT’S NITRO’S! The referee makes the count, not seeing Melina’s hand on London’s foot! 1... 2... 3!

The bell rings and Melina jumps to her feet in joy! But, as soon as she hears Nitro and Mercury’s music, she stops and covers his mouth. She grabbed the wrong person’s foot! Mercury comes up behind Melina and grabs her by the hair, dragging her back into the ring. Mercury and Nitro talk some trash to her, before Kendrick hurries back into the ring to save her. He is soon joined by a recovering Paul London. They pull Melina backward as they yell at the new WWE Tag Team Champions. SUDDENLY, MELINA MULE KICKS BRIAN KENDRICK and hops over to Nitro and Mercury! Nitro and Mercury then assault Kendrick and London! MELINA COST THEM THE MATCH ON PURPOSE! WHAT THE HELL?! Mercury and Nitro toss London out of the ring as Melina gives the orders. Nitro lifts Kendrick up on his shoulder… SNAPSHOT! MNM’s music hits the speakers and the group head for the back, having won the war.

Winners: And NEW WWE Tag Team Champions, MNM

Overall Rating: 87%

Following the match, a video begins to play over the screen. The video goes back to the early rounds of the King of the Ring tournament, where the on-going rivalry between Matt Hardy and Booker T began. The video goes on to show Gunner Scott’s debut. As the video progresses, it shows how the alliances between Hardy and Scott, and Booker and Holly formed. The video takes a darker turn, however, when clips are shown of Booker and Holly injuring Gunner Scott weeks ago. It picks back up as it shows Matt challenge them to a Handicap Match, only for Teddy Long to turn it into a singles match between Matt and Booker. The video ends with a clip of Booker costing Matt Hardy his match two days ago on Smackdown.

Singles Match

Matt Hardy vs. Booker T w/ Hardcore Holly

Booker T’s music hits as the cameras cut back to the arena. He emerges from the back with Hardcore Holly at his side. Speaking of which, where the hell has Sharmell been? Anyway, they make their way to the ring before Matt Hardy’s music hits. Hardy comes out from the back wearing a Gunner Scott shirt, rather than his usual Matt Hardy shirt. Matt enters the ring and doesn’t even wait for his music to stop before going after Booker! Screw a wrestling match, this is starting out with an all out brawl! They roll around the ring for a little while, exchanging shots. The crowd follows the Triple H/John Cena pattern. When Matt is on top and delivering the shots, the crowd cheers, but as soon as Booker rolls over and gets in the shots, the crowd boos. This goes on for a short while, before Booker finally gets to his feet and starts with the kicks. Matt fights his way to his feet, only to be sent into the ropes and take a Back Body Drop! Matt grasps his back and tries to get up, but he ends up walking right into a Side Walk Slam, Backbreaker combination.

Booker goes for an early cover, but only gets a two count. He pulls Matt up to his feet, but Matt starts to fight back! Matt sends Booker into the ropes and catches him with a back elbow. Booker quickly gets to his feet and Hardy hits him with the Side Effect! Matt goes for the cover, but gets only a one! Matt throws out a few punches as Booker gets to his feet. Matt throws a few more once Booker is up, and then puts a knee to the midsection. DDT! Matt continues his offense for a few minutes before going for a whip. Booker reverses! As Matt comes off the ropes, Booker goes for his trademark side kick, but Matt ducks! Booker spins around as Matt swings for a punch, but Booker ducks and hooks Hardy for the Book End! HE NAILS IT! Booker goes for the cover! 1... 2... NO! MATT KICKS OUT! Booker can’t believe it! Booker starts to pull Matt to his feet, but Matt begins to fight back. Matt gets in more and more shots, seemingly making a come back! Matt gets in a kick to the midsection, he then spins Booker around and hooks him for the Twist of Fate! Matt may have it won! NO! Booker spins out of the Twist of Fate and pulls Hardy right into a DDT! Both men are down. They both start to get to their feet soon after, though.

They make it to their feet and begin to exchange punches. Matt starts to get in repetitive shots, and decides to come off the ropes for a bit more force. But OH! As Matt goes into the ropes, Hardcore Holly jumps up and delivers a shot to the kidney with the edge of a steel chair! How the hell did the referee NOT see that? Unbelievable! Matt stumbles away from the ropes and Holly hops down off the apron… BOOK END! Booker goes for the cover! 1... 2... 3! As soon as the bell rings, Holly is in the ring with the steel chair. Holly and Booker lay a beat down on him for a few moments before Booker holds him down, allowing Holly to place Hardy’s arm inside the chair, much like he did to Gunner Scott. Speaking of Gunner, as this is going on, a faint “GUNNER SCOTT” chant breaks out throughout the crowd, but dies out soon after. Holly climbs to the second rope as Booker holds Matt down. He jumps off, smashing the chair down Hardy’s arm! It may very well be broken! With the damage done, Booker’s music hits the speakers and he heads to the back with Hardcore Holly!

Winner: Booker T

Overall Rating: 78%

A few moments later, a graphic for SummerSlam appears on the screen. Along with the graphic logo for SummerSlam is some text that says August 20th, 2006. Tazz and Michael Cole inform the viewing audience that SummerSlam will emanate from Boston, Massachusetts on August 20th, live and only on pay-per-view! They also note that it will be a joint production between RAW and Smackdown!

Cruiserweight Championship Double Elimination Round Robin Match

Mike Mizanin vs. Nunzio vs. Christopher Daniels vs. Gregory Helms©

As the SummerSlam ad fades off the screen, Mike Mizanin’s music comes over the speakers. He makes his way to the ring to very little reaction, if any. Next out is Nunzio, who gets a mixed reaction. Once he is in the ring, the New Blood’s music hits and out comes Christopher Daniels. Daniels makes his way to the ring to a decent ovation before the cheering turns to jeering as Gregory Helms’ music comes over the speakers. Christopher Daniels and The Miz exit the ring as Nunzio and the Cruiserweight Champion will be starting things off. They lock up, leading to Helms getting in the first move. They go back and forth for a little bit, not really being able to get a solid advantage over one another. They demonstrate some nice mat work for a little bit, before Nunzio starts to gain some momentum. In the midst of Nunzio’s momentum, he sends Helms into the ropes. Helms, thinking fast, comes off the ropes with somewhat of a diving Shining Wizard, connecting with Nunzio! Helms goes for the cover! 1... 2... 3!

Nunzio rolls out of the ring and Daniels quickly climbs in. Daniels wastes no time going after Helms, catching him off guard and getting an immediate upper hand. Daniels begins to pick Helms apart with some vicious, but well scouted offense. He gets Helms up for a torture rack, and drops him down into a DDT! Daniels goes for the cover! 1... 2... NO! Helms isn’t giving up that easily. Daniels pulls Helms up to his feet and continues his offense. After a few moments, Helms somehow manages to start fighting back! Helms gets in a few shots and then goes into the ropes… OH! STO FROM DANIELS! That looked nasty! Daniels approaches the corner and hops up to the second rope, as he does so, Helms hurries to his feet. As Daniels’ feet touch the top rope, Helms shoves them out from under him, sending Daniels crashing to the mat, almost landing on his head! Helms quickly goes for the cover, getting his feet up on the second rope! 1... 2... 3! Holy crap!

Daniels lies in the corner grasping his head as Mizanin slides into the ring. Is Daniels legitimately hurt? Miz gets in a few quick shots on Helms, but Helms will have none of that. Only mere moments later, Helms hooks him for the Nightmare On Helms Street, and connects! 1... 2... 3! The Miz rolls out of the ring as Nunzio comes back in for his second chance!

Nunzio attacks Helms from behind, allowing him to get a head start, so to speak. Nunzio takes it to the winded champion for a few moments. Helms eventually starts to fight back, but it is short lived, as Nunzio retakes control. Nunzio continues to beat down on the champion for a couple of minutes. Nunzio catches Helms with a Fisherman’s Buster! 1... 2... NO! Helms kicks out again! Nunzio can’t believe it. How is Helms not completely out of it by now? Nunzio pulls Helms back to his feet and hooks him for the Arrivederci, but Helms quickly counters out and hooks Nunzio for the Nightmare on Helms Street! BUT, before he can hit it, Mizanin jumps up on the apron, getting Helms’ attention. Helms releases the hold and takes a step toward Mizanin. WHOA! WHAT THE… 1... 2... 3! OH! Nunzio came up behind Helms and rolled him up!

Helms gets to his feet and attacks Nunzio! NIGHTMARE ON HELMS STREET! Helms rolls out of the ring. Daniels is next up, but he is on the outside being checked on by another referee and an EMT. Daniels gets to his feet and fights off the EMT, climbing into the ring. He sees that Nunzio is down, and goes for the cover. 1... 2... NO! Nunzio kicks out! Daniels gets to his feet and pulls Nunzio up. LAST RITES! Why even kick out the first time? 1... 2... 3! Nunzio is eliminated!

Mizanin slides back into the ring, but as soon as he gets to his feet, Helms trips him up! Miz turns around and yells at few unkind words at Helms. After he’s finished, The Miz turns back around and… ANGEL’S WING ALREADY! You’ve got to be kidding me! This new guy is getting his ass kicked! 1... 2... 3! Mike Mizanin is eliminated!

Helms quickly slides into the ring, trying to get in a quick move, but Daniels is up too. They exchange punches in the middle of the ring. Eventually, Helms gets in a few extra shots and starts to gain some momentum. Helms maintains control for a couple of minutes, but eventually loses the upper hand as things go right back to being back and forth. After a few moments, Daniels sends Helms into the ropes… LEG LARIAT! He goes for the cover! 1... 2... HELMS KICKS OUT! Daniels pulls Helms to his feet and continues to beat down on Helms, but things quickly go back to the back and forth competition. This continues for a short while, before Helms hooks Daniels with a Full Nelson! OH! Daniels counters out and hooks Helms… DVD! Daniels goes for another pin! 1... 2... NO! Helms kicks out again! Helms does not want to give up his title! Daniels is getting frustrated, but who wouldn’t be? Daniels once again pulls Helms to his feet, but Helms starts to fight back… OH! Are you kidding me?! HELMS HAS DANIELS UP FOR THE VERTEBREAKER! WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU SAW THAT MOVE?! HE NAILS IT! Helms goes for the pin! 1... 2... DANIELS KICKS OUT! OH MY GOD!

Helms pulls Daniels to his feet and they once again go back and forth, but Daniels quickly turns things around and ends up hitting a Blue Thunder Bomb! Daniels approaches the corner… BME! He goes for the cover! 1... 2... HELMS KICKS OUT! ARE YOU SERIOUS?! Daniels is losing his mind! He doesn’t know what else to do! He tries to pull Helms up, but Helms fights back! Helms ends up hooking Daniels for the Nightmare on Helms Street! NO! DANIELS COUNTERS OUT! REVERSE STO! HOLY CRAP! KOJI CLUTCH! There’s no way Helms can break it… NO! HE DOESN’T! HELMS TAPS! HELMS TAPS! CHRISTOPHER DANIELS WINS THE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP!

Winner: And NEW Cruiserweight Champion, Christopher Daniels

Overall Rating: 78%

The cameras cut to the back. The camera is fixed on a door that bares a sign that simply reads “BATISTA”. The camera stays fixed on the door for a few moments before cutting back to the arena.

Singles Match

William Regal vs. Batista

With the cameras back on the arena, William Regal’s music hits. He emerges from the back, not looking very thrilled at all. He makes his way to the ring and his music fades out. Regal paces back and forth inside the ring as a huge “BA-TIS-TA” chant breaks out through the crowd. That is all that can be heard for a good thirty seconds. Finally, Batista’s music comes over the speakers and the crowd ERUPTS into cheers. Batista emerges from behind the curtain and the cheering gets even louder. Batista makes his way to the ring, playing to the crowd along the way, with a huge smile on his face. The bell rings and the two men stare at each other from across the ring. They circle the ring for a brief moment before entering a tie up. Of course, Batista overpowers Regal and shoves him across the ring to a nice pop from the crowd. Regal gets back to his feet and glares at Batista. Regal starts to smile. He approaches Batista, and if anyone remember what happened between Regal and Goldberg in WCW, think about that. However, Batista manages to keep up with Regal! Batista actually knows what he’s doing! Regal eventually gives up, yelling at Batista that “okay, maybe you’re not as bad as that jackass!”

Regal has a back up plan though. He catches Batista with a thumb to the eye, and begins to work him over on the mat. Batista can’t use his power to his advantage if he’s grounded. Regal works on Batista’s leg for a few minutes, doing damn near everything imaginable to it, trying to keep Batista down. However, Batista keeps getting back up. This continues for a couple of minutes, and with Batista not staying down, Regal reaches into his trunks for something. Regal comes off the ropes, OH! Batista gets him up for the Spinebuster! Wait, no! Regal punches him in the head, apparently with some superhuman strength… or brass knuckles, because Batista drops him and stumbles back. The referee turns to check on Batista as Regal hit’s the ropes again. This time, he is caught! Regal spins around, and Burchill is right there on the apron! BURCHILL CLOCKS REGAL WITH A PAIR OF BRASS KNUCKLES! Regal stumbles back and then falls to the mat. Burchill laughs and then heads to the back. Batista pulls Regal to his feet and signals for the Batista Bomb! HE NAILS IT! He goes for the cover! 1... 2... 3! Batista wins his return match, and without having to squash Regal!

Winner: Batista

Overall Rating: 83%

The cameras cut to the back as Lashley is heading down a hallway, following the signs that say “TO STAGE” with an arrow point in whichever direction. As he approaches the stairs that lead to the stage, he is stopped by Kurt Angle.

Lashley: Kurt.

Angle: Lashley, I just want to wish you good luck. At Judgment Day, you earned my respect. You’ve got a bright future ahead of you, kid. I want you to jump start that future right here tonight, by putting JBL in his place.

Lashley: I’ll do my best, Kurt.

Angle: No, no, no! I don’t want to hear “I’ll do my best.” I want to hear “I’ll do it.”

Lashley hesitates for a moment. He then nods in agreement.

Lashley: I’ll do it.

Kurt pats him on his back and shakes his hand. Kurt walks away as the cameras cut back to the arena.

United States Championship

Lashley vs. JBL© w/ Jillian

Lashley’s music hits the speakers and crowd actually bursts into cheers for the 2006 King of the Ring. Lashley heads to the ring before his music is cut off by the ever-so-annoying music of the United States Champion, JBL. JBL’s limo emerges from behind the entrance set. The driver gets out and approaches the back door, opening it. JBL steps out, followed by Jillian, who is carrying his United States Championship. JBL climbs into the ring and the match is ready to begin. The match begins with the two men trying to out-brawl one another. Lashley, although he is relatively new, is smart enough to know that he needs to use JBL’s own game against him, and that game, is brawling. They brawl back and forth for a few minutes before Jillian starts trying to get involved. Her intervention helps JBL a little bit, as he starts to gain some momentum over Lashley. JBL continues to beat down on Lashley, as Jillian continues to make her presence known, much to the dismay of the fans in attendance. A few moments later, JBL sends Lashley into the ropes. Upon hitting the ropes, Jillian grabs Lashley’s foot, tripping him up. Uh oh! The referee saw it this time!

The crowd bursts into laughing and cheering as the referee ejects Jillian from ring side! JBL and Jillian both throw a fit as Jillian angrily stomps toward the back. With JBL distracted, Lashley nails him with a chop block! From this point on, Lashley is in control, gaining more and more momentum every second. He nails JBL with a myriad of suplexes, and gets a handful of near falls. Lashley keeps his cool through the disappointments, however, and continues to work over JBL’s back and ribs. After a few more minutes of Lashley being in complete control, Lashley goes for a whip. JBL reverses! Lashley comes off the ropes and runs right into a big boot! Lashley starts to get back to his feet as JBL comes off the ropes! CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL!!!…? NO! LASHLEY DUCKS! JBL spins around… Lashley gets him up for the Dominator! Wait! NO! JBL wiggles free and slides out of the ring! JBL walks over to the time keeper’s table and grabs the United States Championship belt. The referee starts his count. 1... JBL clutches the belt and continues to walk around the ring. 2.…….. 3.….. JBL makes his way around the ring toward the aisle leading to the stage as Lashley yells at him to get back into the ring. 4.…….. 5.…….. 6.…….. JBL starts to head up the aisle, telling Lashley that he doesn’t deserve to wear the United States Championship. 7.…….. 8... JBL yells to Lashley that he is too good to be defending his title in front of the people of Indianapolis. 9.…….. 10! The referee calls for the bell. Lashley doesn’t even know what to say as JBL disappears into the back. JBL has just once again weaseled his way out of losing his championship. Lashley remains in the ring for a few moments, obviously upset.

Winner: By Count Out, Lashley

Overall Rating: 81%

The cameras cut to the back as Mr. Kennedy sits in his locker room. He is taping his wrists and getting ready for his match later in the night. Kennedy pauses and stares at the floor before taking a deep breath and continuing what he was doing. It’s incredibly obvious that Kennedy is a bit nervous.

No Disqualification, Falls Count Anywhere Tag Team Match

The Mexicools vs. Noble and Kash

The cameras return to the arena as Noble and Kash’s music hits the speakers. They make their way out from the back looking quite confident. Once they are in the ring, the music of The Mexicools interrupts theirs. The Mexicools emerges from the back sans their Juan Deeres, seeing as how they were destroyed on Smackdown. Hmm, I wonder who did that? The Mexicools climb into the ring and get face to face with Noble and Kash. The bell rings and before long, the four are exchanging punches. Before too long, Psicosis and Kid Kash are on the outside while Crazy and Noble are going at it in the ring. Within the first two minutes of the match, Kid Kash has himself a steel chair. Kash sends Psicosis into the barricade. Psicosis gets to his feet and stumbles toward Kid Kash. SMASH MOUTH with the steel chair! Kid Kash continues to beat down on Psicosis outside the ring. Back in the ring, Super Crazy sends Noble into the ropes. Crazy drops down as Noble goes across the ring to the opposite ropes. Drop Kick from Super Crazy! Noble gets to his feet and Crazy quickly takes him down with an arm drag into an arm bar.

On the outside, Psicosis has started to fight back a little bit. He whips Kash into the ring post, and then slams his head into it before tossing him into the ring. Psicosis climbs into the ring and pulls Kash to his feet, as Super Crazy releases the arm bar and brings Noble to his feet as well. They send Noble and Kash into the ropes at the same time, double drop kicks! Noble and Kash start to get to their feet near the ropes… Oh! Crazy and Psicosis with clotheslines to them both, sending them over the top rope to the outside! As Noble and Kash start to get to their feet, Psicosis comes off the ropes and…. SUICIDE DIVE through the top and middle ropes onto Noble and Kash! The crowd erupts into cheers! Super Crazy climbs through the ropes to the apron. He faces toward the ring as he glances over his shoulder. Noble, Kash, and Psicosis are getting to their feet. ASAI MOONSAULT! After a few moments, Crazy and Psicosis get to their feet and pull their opponents to theirs. The four men begin to brawl up the aisle toward the entrance. They brawl their way off to the left side of the entrance (the right side is where they have the Buried Alive set up placed) where there is a scaffold, about fifteen feet high. A few feet away from the scaffold are four tables, set up side by side, two to a row. The four of them continue to brawl around until they are next to the tables. Psicosis sends Noble into the steel barricade. As Noble stumbles away from the barricade, Psicosis catches him with a big DDT on the floor. Super Crazy, being the crazy bastard that he is, neutralizes Noble near the barricade and begins climbing the scaffold. While he’s climbing, Psicosis picks up a floor light, one of those big heavy ass ones next to the aisle, and clobbers Noble in the head with it, knocking him out cold. Kash starts to get back to his feet, but gets a shot from the light as well.

Psicosis lays Noble and Kash both on the table set up next to the scaffold. The spotlight shines on Super Crazy as he plays to the crowd at the top of the scaffold. The crowd erupts into cheers as Super Crazy turns his back toward the edge of the scaffold, and then leaps off with a Moonsault! Crazy crashes onto Noble and Kash, sending all three of them through the tables! Psicosis hurries over and covers Jamie Noble, while Super Crazy lies motionless on top of Kid Kash! The referee makes the count! 1... 2... 3!

Winners: The Mexicools

Overall Rating: 89%

The cameras transition to a video package. The video shows how the rivalry between Mr. Kennedy and The Undertaker came to fruition. The video recaps what happened at Judgment Day, and what has been happening over the course of the last few weeks. The video ends with the clip of Mr. Kennedy blasting The Undertaker in the face with the shovel at Judgment Day.

Buried Alive Match

Mr. Kennedy vs. The Undertaker

The cameras cut back to the arena as MIIIIIIIISSSSTEEERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR … KENNEDY! … … … Kennedy! Mr. Kennedy’s music hits the speakers and he emerges from the back. He has a fake look of confidence on his face, but he’s obviously nervous. Once Kennedy is in the ring, his music fades out. A few moments later, the GONG hits and the arena becomes dark and cold. The gong hits once more and The Undertaker’s music begins to play as the crowd cheers. The Undertaker emerges from the back as the cheers get even louder. The Undertaker slowly… and I mean slowly… as in Tortoise and the Hare story slow… makes his way down the aisle toward the ring. He climbs into the ring and slowly… yeah, that again… removes his coat and his hat. Once all that crap is taken care of, Kennedy paces around as The Undertaker stalks him with his eyes. The Undertaker takes a few steps toward the center of the ring, and after a few seconds, Kennedy finally approaches him, going face to face with the Deadman. Kennedy launches a punch and lands it. The Undertaker simply turns his head and then snaps it back toward Kennedy. Undertaker unleashes a punch, and begins his destruction of Kennedy.

The Undertaker continues his offense, completely pummeling Mr. Kennedy. This goes on for a good five minutes or so before Kennedy manages to crawl out of the ring to safety. However, he’s not safe. The Undertaker charges across the ring and dives over the top rope with a Suicide Dive! OH! KENNEDY CATCHES HIM IN MID AIR WITH A STEEL CHAIR TO THE HEAD! OH MY GOD! With The Undertaker down on the floor, Kennedy wails away at him with the steel chair, until the chair is too disfigured to even recognize it as a steel chair. Kennedy tosses the chair aside and walks over to the time keeper’s table. He picks up the ring bell! The Undertaker slowly gets to his feet… OH! A SHOT WITH THE RING BELL! Undertaker is busted open! Kennedy yells at Undertaker, gloating about what’s going on. Kennedy pulls Undertaker to his feet and gets in a few shots. Kennedy goes to whip Undertaker toward the barricade, but Undertaker reverses! Kennedy crashes into the barricade! Undertaker is back in control! Undertaker begins to brawl with Kennedy toward the aisle. With Kennedy seemingly out of it, Undertaker starts dragging him toward the open grave next to the entrance.

They reach the grave and Undertaker goes to throw Kennedy into it, but Kennedy counters and starts to fight back! They exchange shots while rotating, each man trying to stay away from the open grave. They continue for a few moments until Undertaker has Kennedy on the edge. Undertaker goozles him! We’re going to see a Chokeslam into the grave! NO! Kennedy fights back! Kennedy gets in a handful of punches as Undertaker staggers back! Wait! Undertaker swings for a punch but Kennedy ducks! Kennedy steps around behind The Undertaker! Undertaker spins around and OH! Kennedy’s there with more punches, sending Undertaker staggering backward toward the open grave! Undertaker is teetering! Kennedy takes a few steps back and then lunges at Undertaker, knocking him down into the open grave! Kennedy steps over to the shovel and picks it up! He has to shovel some dirt in there before the match can be over! Kennedy steps back over to the grave and peers down in. UNDERTAKER REACHES UP AND GRABS HIS LEG! Kennedy tries to fend him off, but The Undertaker starts to climb out! Kennedy finally breaks free and BLASTS Undertaker in the face with the shovel, just like Judgment Day! Undertaker collapses into the grave! Kennedy digs the shovel into the pile of dirt and pulls up a big heap. Kennedy tosses the dirt into the hole and then repeats the process again! The referee calls for the bell! Kennedy has defeated The Undertaker! Kennedy keeps shoveling until The Undertaker’s body is covered. Kennedy’s music hits the speakers and he celebrates over the grave.

Winner: Mr. Kennedy

Overall Rating: 86%

A video package begins to play, starting with clips of Chris Benoit defeating Rey Mysterio for the World Heavyweight Championship. The video shows clips from the next few weeks, including a clip of Kurt Angle pinning Chris Benoit in a tag team match. It then goes on to show Kurt Angle announcing that he would challenge Chris Benoit tonight for the World Heavyweight Championship. The video then goes on to show a number of clips from the last few weeks, of Benoit and Angle both using one another’s moves on each other. The video ends with a shot of Chris Benoit tapping out to his own Crossface two days ago on Smackdown.

World Heavyweight Championship

Kurt Angle vs. Chris Benoit©

The cameras cut back to the arena as Kurt Angle’s music echoes throughout the arena, but is quickly drowned out by the cheering crowd. Kurt Angle makes his way to the ring, looking as confident as ever. Once he is in the ring, his music is cut off by Chris Benoit’s. Benoit emerges from the back to thunderous boos, as he makes his way down the aisle with the World Heavyweight Championship around his waist. As soon as Benoit climbs into the ring, he and Angle are face to face. Benoit unsnaps the belt and holds it directly in front of Kurt’s face, taunting him with it. He then hands it to the referee, who shows it to the crowd before handing it to a crew member at ringside. Angle and Benoit remain face to face, talking trash one another for a few moments before Angle shoves Benoit! Benoit rears back, and then returns the shove to Angle. They then enter a fierce lock up, Angle gets in the first move. Angle continues his offense, gaining momentum. Angle is in firm control for about the first five minutes of the match, while both men display absolutely phenomenal mat work and story telling.

After the first five minutes, Chris Benoit starts to heel it up a bit, and begins to gain some momentum using nothing but cheap shots and dirty tactics. Benoit maintains control for the next ten minutes, with Angle periodically getting in some offense, but inevitably getting shut down by the champion. At around the fifteen minute mark, things start to shift once again in Kurt Angle’s favor. Benoit goes for a clothesline, but Angle ducks and catches Benoit with a German Suplex! And another! And another! Angle is getting fired up, as he pulls down his straps. Angle goes in for the Angle Lock, but Benoit quickly fights away from Angle. Benoit gets to his feet and Angle charges at him. Benoit grabs him and OH! CROSSFACE! NO! Angle fights out! They go back and forth for a few moments until Benoit ducks behind Angle! GERMAN SUPLEX! AND ANOTHER! AND ANOTHER! Now both men have hit a succession of three German Suplexes! Benoit does his cutthroat taunt and heads for the top rope! HE SOARS OFF FOR THE DIVING HEADBUTT! HE NAILS IT! He goes for the cover! 1... 2... NO! ANGLE KICKS OUT! Benoit is fuming. He gets to his feet and pulls Angle up to his. Angle swings at Benoit, but Benoit ducks! OH! ANGLE SLAM FROM BENOIT! Benoit goes for another cover! 1... 2... ANGLE KICKS OUT AGAIN! NO WAY!

Benoit sits up in the middle of the ring, trying to think of what to do next. Benoit gets to his feet and starts yelling at the referee to count faster next time. With Benoit’s attention elsewhere, Angle quickly grabs his leg and locks on the Angle Lock! Wait… wait… NO! Benoit rolls through, sending Angle stumbling across the ring and… INTO THE REFEREE! The referee is out! Angle spins around as Benoit charges at him! NO! Angle with a Drop Toe Hold! Angle floats over and locks in the Angle Lock once again! Benoit tries to crawl toward the ropes, but Angle pulls him back to the middle of the ring! Benoit refuses to tap! Angle grapevines Benoit’s leg! Benoit has nowhere to go! BENOIT IS TAPPING! BENOIT IS TAPPING!!! But there’s no referee! Angle has the match won but the referee is out! After nearly a minute, if not longer, Angle finally breaks the hold! Wait… who the hell is that? Is that… Is that Ri… no… It can’t be… THAT’S RIC FLAIR! Ric Flair is making his way down the aisle wearing a referee shirt! With Angle looking toward the entrance and Ric Flair, Benoit comes from behind with a chop block! Benoit begins to work over Kurt Angle’s leg mercilessly! Every move and hold imaginable, Benoit applies it to Kurt’s leg! Kurt can’t even stand up! Benoit exits the ring and stomps over to the time keeper’s table, where he grabs a steel chair! There is no need for a damn steel chair!

Benoit climbs back into the ring with the steel chair. He allows Angle to use his energy trying to stand. As soon as Angle is vertical, Benoit blasts him in the side of the leg with the chair, sending him right back down to the mat! Benoit starts to pound away relentlessly on Angle’s knee with the steel chair! Why isn’t Flair calling for the bell! In the background, we can hear Flair yelling that this match is far too important to be ruled out on a disqualification. Flair yells that there has to be a winner! After what seems like at least a hundred shots to the leg (yes, that is an exaggeration) of Kurt Angle, Chris Benoit finally tosses the chair to the outside and steps back. Kurt Angle crawls over to Ric Flair and starts trying to pull himself up, using Ric Flair for leverage. Angle gets to a vertical base, with Flair helping to hold him up. Flair holds Angle’s face, asking him if he can continue. Angle says he’s not quitting. Ric Flair once again asks him if he’s okay to continue. OH! NO! NO! NO! RIC FLAIR BLASTS ANGLE WITH A LOW BLOW! WHY?! WHAT IN THE HELL IS GOING ON! With Kurt Angle reeling on the mat, Benoit walks over with a smile on his face and locks Angle in the Sharpshooter! Even with his knee virtually shattered, Angle is NOT tapping! Ric Flair checks on Angle a few times, but Angle is still trying to fight his way out of the hold!

RIC FLAIR CALLS FOR THE BELL! WHAT?!

Tony Chimmel: Ladies and gentlemen, your winner via knockout, and STILL World Heavyweight Champion… Chris… BENOIT!

ARE YOU KIDDING ME!? ANGLE IS VERY OBVIOUSLY STILL CONSCIOUS! THIS IS BULLSHIT! Ric Flair is handed the World Heavyweight Championship as Chris Benoit releases the hold on Angle! Flair hands the belt to Chris Benoit and then raises Benoit’s arm in victory! Benoit’s music hits the speakers as the cameras focus on Kurt Angle, who is lying on the mat, riving in pain, but still very much awake. Benoit and Ric Flair head toward the back with one another, Benoit holding his belt high above his head. The cameras show Kurt Angle staring toward the entrance, staring a hole through Chris Benoit and Ric Flair. The cameras then switch to Ric Flair standing next to Chris Benoit, who is still holding his belt high in the air. Benoit and Flair are laughing and smiling as the show fades to black.

Winner: And STILL World Heavyweight Champion, Chris Benoit

Overall Rating: 91%

Overall Show Rating: 86%

PPV Buyrate: 1.77

Attendance: 20,408

Quick Results:

- Rey Mysterio def. Finlay via Pinfall

- MNM def. London and Kendrick for the WWE Tag Team Championships via Pinfall after interference from Melina

- Booker T def. Matt Hardy via Pinfall after interference from Booker T

- Christopher Daniels def. Gregory Helms for the Cruiserweight Championship via Pinfall

- Batista def. William Regal via Pinfall after interference from Burchill

- Lashley def. JBL via Count Out

- The Mexicools def. Noble and Kash via Pinfall

- Mr. Kennedy def. The Undertaker In A Buried Alive Match

- Chris Benoit def. Kurt Angle to retain the World Heavyweight Championship via “Knockout” after interference from Ric Flair

NOTE: The Prediction Contest allowed for a total of 10 points. There were a couple of people who did not make a guess at the bonus question, and thusly, are out of a point. I apologize to those who did not get a chance to edit your predicitions to include the bonus question. Anyway, here are the results of the Prediction Contest

Olback got 6 out of 10 points

Inner D Monz got 7 out of 10 points

tqwcw got 6 out of 10 points

TheTruth got 5 out of 10 points

Jaze got 6 out of 10 points

phatman got 8 out 10 points

Congratulations to phatman for winning my first Prediction Contest. Please PM me with the name of the worker you would like me to sign and/or push. There was a post a page or so ago that listed all of my developmental workers, so feel free to choose from that list. It can also be someone who is already active, or, like I said, someone who isn't even signed yet. But please, PM me the name, do not post it here. Thank you, and again, congratulations.

Edited June 7, 2006 by JairusCain

[phatman]

Great American Bash was a solid PPV... Some matches were predictable however you've got to expect that sometimes... I'm still intrigued to see where you take the Daniels stable now, maybe a turn from Samoa Joe soon could be good... Keep up the solid work man...

[Guest Gavin]

Nice PPV man. The results were pretty much as expected.

You had to get Benoit to keep the title, while not making Angle lose Overness, so that was a pretty good way to do it.

I didn't really like the Angle & Lashley bit, it seemed as though It was just put there to fill up space. Although it could lead to Angle & Lashley V Benoit & JBL, maybe.

[tqwcw]

-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.

[JairusCain]

-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.

[TheTruth]

Mysterio/Finlay was good & liked the ending as well, good way to not make Finlay look weak.

I like this New Blood angle you have going, because all could work inside of a WWE ring. I also like how they are developing very slowly, good work.

MNM/Londrick surprised me since I though you had kept Melina face when she accidently screwed over Londrick. Oh well, but at least MNM is back together & this means this feud can last until SummerSlam.

I'm not really digging the whole Booker/Holly/Scott/Hardy feud & I'm really just wishing for it to end.

Daniels winning the title was good & I liked how he won cleanly, plays well into his gimmick.

I think you just should've squashed Regal here because now Batista looks weak, since he can barely beat Regal.

The Mexicools/Noble & Kash match didn't do much for me & I don't think that the Mexicools will be going anywhere because of their win.

Kennedy/Taker is good, but I hope Kennedy does something until 'Taker's return, like a mini-feud or something along that nature.

Angle/Benoit was great & you surprised me with Flair's return & you surprsied me aagain with Flair turning heel.

Overall, a good PPV & hope you keep up the good work.

[JairusCain]

Credit WWE.com

SummerSlam Preview

July 17, 2006

Mr. Money In The Bank and the WWE Champion will go head to head this week in a preview of their match at SummerSlam. It was announced last week that Edge would be defending his WWE Championship this week on RAW. Can RVD pick up the win and head into SummerSlam as the WWE Champion?

Last week, The Interns laid out a challenge for 3 Minute Warning. If 3MW can defeat The Interns this week in under three minutes in a non-title match, The Interns will be forced to defend their World Tag Team Championships next week, right here on RAW. Can 3MW earn themselves a title shot?

Kane brutally assaults Mick Foley last week prior to Foley’s scheduled interview with Jim Ross. Mick Foley was held in local hospital over night and then sent him, where he remains this week. Kane however, will be present on RAW. What’s next for this man who has apparently lost all bearings on reality? Also, Chris Masters has been challenged to defend his Intercontinental Championship this week. The challenger? Goldust. Can Goldust pick up his fourth Intercontinental Championship?

All this and much more on Monday Night RAW (9/8 CT; USA Network).

Edited June 7, 2006 by JairusCain

[JairusCain]

Credit ****.com

Total Nonstop Action Wrestling Goes Global

July 17, 2006

It’s being reported today that Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, based out of Orlando, Florida has reached Global distribution levels. The news has come as a surprise, as the last month or two for TNA has seemed rather lackluster. Going along with TNA’s rise, several of their stars have signed long term contracts. Many expect TNA to gain a new television slot, presumably during the prime time viewing hours. It is expected that they may even attempt to compete with World Wrestling Entertainment, which is currently resting comfortably on top of the sports entertainment world.

[JairusCain]

Monday July 17, 2006

Live! From San Antonio, Texas

World Wrestling Entertainment Presents: RAW on USA

The show comes on the air with a video package hyping tonight’s main event of RVD versus Edge for the WWE Championship. After the video, the usual RAW video plays, followed by the opening pyro. Immediately after the pyro, Goldust makes his entrance.

Intercontinental Championship

Goldust vs. Chris Masters©

Once Goldust is in the ring, Chris Masters’ music hits the speakers. The Intercontinental Champion makes his way to the ring, looking as arrogant as ever. He enters the ring and the match starts. Goldust gets in a few shots at the beginning, but before long, the young Chris Masters is in firm control. Within minutes, Masters locks on the Masterlock for the win.

Winner: And STILL Intercontinental Champion, Chris Masters

Overall Rating: 77%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

When the broadcast returns from commercials, we are greeted with a “During The Break” video. Chris Masters walks through the curtain to the back, having won his match. He is greeted by fellow Corporation member, Chris Jericho. Chris Jericho congratulates him on his win and they walk down a corridor with one another. As they are walking along, they pass Triple H and Shawn Michaels, who are standing next to some cargo crates, talking amongst themselves. Triple H calls out to Masters to get his attention. Masters keeps walking, but Triple H goes ahead and tells Masters that he should try defending his title against a real challenger. Jericho and Masters stop walking and then turn around to face Triple H and HBK. They approach them and Masters asks Triple H what he said. Triple H repeats himself. Masters and Jericho then attack Triple H and HBK, leaving them lying on the floor unconscious. Jericho and Masters walk away laughing.

Overall Rating: 83%

Tag Team Match

Cade and Murdoch vs. The V Spot

The cameras cut back to the arena as Val Venis and Viscera stand in the ring. Val Venis’ music is soon cut off by that of Cade and Murdoch. Cade and Murdoch make their way to the ring and the match is ready to start. Cade and Venis start the match. The match goes back and forth a bit, but once Viscera gets tagged in, he starts to gain momentum. However, as the match progresses, the cheating between Cade and Murdoch begins to work in their advantage. Murdoch ends up in the ring with Venis. Murdoch nails his top rope Bulldog and then uses the ropes for leverage for the pin. 1... 2... 3!

Winners: Cade and Murdoch

Overall Rating: 61%

The cameras cut to the back to show Edge and Lita standing in a hallway with Vince McMahon. Vince is further trying to persuade Edge to accept his offer, but Edge is saying he still isn’t sure about it.

Overall Rating: 88%

As Edge and Vince McMahon are talking, Rob Van Dam approaches them.

RVD: What’s this? What are you, Edge? The newest member of the Mr. McMahon Kiss My Ass Club? Because you’ve certainly been kissing a lot of ass lately.

Edge steps toward RVD, but Vince holds him back.

RVD: Good idea, Vince. We wouldn’t want me to kick his ass before my title shot later tonight. Speaking of which, Edge… I’ll see you later. Have fun in the meantime, kissing Vince’s ass.

RVD smiles and walks away, leaving Edge rather pissed off.

Overall Rating: 90%

Singles Match

Big Show vs. Kane

The cameras cut to the arena as Big Show’s music hits the speakers. Big Show makes his entrance and climbs into the ring.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

As soon as the show returns from the break, Kane’s pyro explodes from the stage and he makes his way to the ring, now once again wearing the black towel over his head. Kane climbs into the ring and goes right after Big Show, taking him over the top rope with a Clothesline. Kane follows him to the outside and proceeds to beat down on him for a couple of minutes. With Big Show down on the outside of the ring, Kane walks to one side of the ring and starts to search for something underneath. After a few moments, Kane pulls out a… A GASOLINE CAN?! WHAT THE HELL?! Kane walks over the Big Show and proceeds to empty the gas can all over Big Show! Kane then reaches under the ring once again and pulls out a TORCH! ARE YOU SERIOUS?! Kane lights the torch and stands over a gas soaked Big Show, laughing maniacally. Before Kane can even attempt to light Big Show ablaze, a mass of agents, security guards, and crew members swarm the Big Red Machine, taking the torch away from him and dragging him away from Big Show. Kane continues to laugh while being dragged to the back. Big Show is checked on by EMTs and then helped to his feet.

Winner: No Contest

Overall Rating: 80%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Three Minute Tag Team Challenge

3 Minute Warning w/ Palmer Canon vs. The Interns©

The show returns from the break as a remixed version of Vince McMahon’s music hits the speakers and The Interns emerge from the back. They get into the ring and their music is cut off by the music of 3 Minute Warning. 3MW, led by Palmer Canon, make their way to the ring. As per the challenge last week, if 3MW can defeat The Interns in under three minutes, then The Interns must defend their World Tag Team Championships next week. As soon as 3MW gets into the ring, the four members of The Interns jump them. The referee, not wanting to defy the boss, calls for the bell to start the match. All four members of The Interns proceed to beat down on Rosey, Jamal, and Canon. The beating goes on past the three minute mark, at which point the referee calls for the bell, saying that the time limit has expired. The Interns flaunt their title belts in front of 3MW while yelling at them that they will never get a shot.

Winners: The Interns

Overall Rating: 71%

The cameras transition to a video package. It is the same video package that was shown last week prior to John Cena’s match with the Big Show. After the video, the cameras cut to the back as John Cena stands in front of the interview set.

Overall Rating: 89%

Cena: I heard you fools cheering for The Rock when that little video aired. Well guess what, people… The Rock ain’t here! Once again, The Rock has failed to show up for RAW. This is two weeks in a row that The Rock has neglected his people! But you now what, these two weeks, having given me some time to think. Rock… I’m giving you one week! You’ve got seven days. And in that seven days, I want an answer to this challenge. You and me… SummerSlam! I ain’t scared of you! I ain’t scared of no one! If I don’t get an answer from you next week on RAW… I’m gonna BEAT an answer outta you! Seven days Rock!

Cena stares angrily into the camera for a few seconds before turning and heading off camera.

Overall Rating: 97%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

WWE Championship

Rob Van Dam vs. Edge© w/ Lita

As the show comes back on the air, Rob Van Dam’s music hits the speakers. RVD emerges from the back to a huge ovation and then makes his way to the ring, playing to the crowd along the way. Once he is in the ring, his music is cut off by Edge’s. Edge emerges from the back with Lita at his side. Lita is carrying the WWE Championship over her shoulder as they make their way to the ring. Edge climbs into the ring and the match is ready to begin. From the start, they go back and forth. Neither man seems to be able to gain any real momentum. A few minutes go by, with neither man really gaining any advantage. Finally, Edge charges at RVD, who is near the ropes. RVD sees him coming, and Back Drops him to the outside. RVD looks to the outside, and then at the opposite ropes, then back outside. The crowd pops as they know what’s coming. RVD runs across the ring and comes off the ropes, gaining momentum on his way back across the ring. Edge starts to get to his feet… HILO FROM RVD! Both men are down!

COMMERCIAL BREAK

As the show returns from the break, RVD is now in control of the match. RVD uses his educated feet to keep Edge at bay. RVD seems to have Edge well scouted as he gets closer and closer to capturing the WWE Championship! RVD goes to whip Edge into the ropes. No! Edge reverses! As RVD hit’s the ropes, Lita trips him up! RVD stays on his feet, yelling a few words at Lita as she jumped up onto the apron. Edge charges at RVD for a Spear! RVD MOVES! Edge ALMOST collides with Lita, but manages to stop. Edge spins around and finds himself begin sent into the ropes. RVD ducks him with a split as he comes back off the ropes. Edge hits the ropes again, this time RVD catches him with a Monkey Flip type of maneuver, sending Edge flying across the ring! RVD climbs to the top rope as Edge gets to his feet. Huge diving kick to Edge! Edge gets to his feet and RVD gets him with a Northern Lights Suplex with a bridge! 1... 2... NO! EDGE KICKS OUT!

COMMERCIAL BREAK

The show returns from commercials with Edge now gaining some momentum. A replay shows that Lita caught RVD in the back with a steel chair as he came off the ropes, thus leading to Edge getting in some moves. Edge blasts RVD with a number of moves before getting him down near the corner! Edge measures RVD up for the Spear! RVD gets to his feet and Edge charges across the ring! RVD MOVES! Edge collides with the ring post! Edge stumbles backward and RVD springs off the ropes and catches Edge with a straight kick to the face! RVD plays to the crowd a little bit before leaping to the top rope! It’s time for the Five Star Frog Splash! NO! THAT’S CHRIS JERICHO! JERICHO JUST RAN DOWN THE RAMP AND SHOVED RVD OFF THE TOP ROPE! RVD crashes to the mat, allowing Edge to get to his feet. RVD slowly gets up… SPEAR! 1... 2... 3! Jericho just cost RVD the WWE Championship! Jericho quickly slides into the ring and proceeds to join Edge in beating down on RVD! Wait! It’s TRIPLE H! TRIPLE H HAS COME TO THE AIDE OF ROB VAN DAM! Triple H goes after Jericho with punches and they begin to brawl around the ring!

Winner: And STILL WWE Champion, Edge

Overall Rating: 96%

Within seconds, Chris Masters hits the ring and goes after Triple H! Jericho and Masters then proceeds to double team Triple H while Edge beats down on RVD! A few moments later, HBK comes running down the ramp and slides into the ring! Edge goes after him, but HBK clotheslines Edge over the top rope to the outside. Seconds later, while HBK goes after Masters, RVD rolls to the outside, leaving Masters and Jericho in the ring alone with Triple H and Shawn Michaels. The four brawl around for a bit, with Jericho and Masters seemingly in control. Things quickly change however, as Triple H and Michaels start to take over! PEDIGREE TO JERICHO! SWEET CHIN MUSIC TO MASTERS! Triple H and Shawn Michaels stand victorious in the ring as the D-Generation X music hits the speakers! Something tells me that things between these four are far from over! Triple H and Shawn Michaels get out of the ring and help RVD to his feet. Edge finds his way back into the ring, checking on Chris Jericho and Chris Masters. The cameras alternate between shots of each group of three looking on toward the other group. The cameras fix on RVD with Triple H and Shawn Michaels as the show goes off the air.

Overall Rating: 81%

Overall Show Rating: 82%

Television Rating: 7.00

Attendance: 10,040

Quick Results

- Chris Masters def. Goldust to retain the Intercontinental Championship via Submission

- Cade and Murdoch def. The V Spot via Pinfall

- Kane drew Big Show in a No Contest

- The Interns def. 3 Minute Warning in the Three Minute Challenge via the Time Limit expiring

- Edge def. Rob Van Dam via Pinfall after interference from Chris Jericho

Edited June 13, 2006 by JairusCain

[JairusCain]

Credit WWE.com

Great American Bash Hangover

July 21, 2006

Five days ago, at the Great American Bash, we saw the return of the Nature Boy Ric Flair! He made his way to the ring wearing a referee shirt and proceeded to aide Chris Benoit in retaining his World Heavyweight Championship. There are many questions surrounding The Nature Boy’s return. Will any of them be answered this week on Smackdown?

At the Great American Bash, Mr. Kennedy stayed true to his word when he buried The Undertaker alive. What’s next for this talented youngster? Also, while JBL was forced to defend his United States Championship at the Great American Bash, he still found a way to keep his title. The United States Champion intentionally got himself counted out, allowing him to retain his championship. General Manager Teddy Long has announced that he has a surprise for the United States Champion this week on Smackdown!

MNM regained their WWE Tag Team Championships five days ago, after Melina assisted them in the win, proving that her alliance to Paul London and Brian Kendrick was a ruse all along. What do the WWE Tag Team Champions have up their sleeves this week? Also, new comer Christopher Daniels won his first WWE championship at the Great American Bash, defeating Gregory Helms for the Cruiserweight Championship in a match that was his own brainchild. What will the New Blood have in store for Smackdown this week?

Don’t miss all of this and much more this week on Friday Night Smackdown at 8/7 CT on UPN.

[JairusCain]

Friday July 21, 2006

Live! From Corpus Christi, Texas

World Wrestling Entertainment Presents: Smackdown on UPN

The show comes onto the air with a video package featuring highlights from the Great American Bash. The video features such clips as Christopher Daniels defeating Gregory Helms, as well as Super Crazy doing his Moonsault off of the scaffolding. It then goes on to show Mr. Kennedy celebrating his win over The Undertaker, as well as Melina turning on London and Kendrick. The video comes to a close with a few clips of Ric Flair making his return. After the video recap, the usual Smackdown video plays, followed by the opening pyro. As the cameras show the arena, it is revealed that the steel cage is hanging above the ring. Is there going to be a steel cage match tonight?

After Michael Cole and Tazz welcome the viewing audience to the show, Teddy Long’s music hits the speakers. He emerges from the back with Lashley at his side. They make their way to the ring and Teddy Long is given a microphone.

Teddy Long: Let me holla at ya playas. JBL, I am growing tired of you defying me. Two times, I have ordered you to defend the United States Championship. Two times you have cheated your way out of it. Two times, you have defied me playa. The first time, you had your little tramp, Jillian help you. And five days ago, at the Great American Bash, you intentionally got counted out because you knew you couldn’t lose the championship that way! Ya know what, playa? Get out here, right now. Come out here to this ring!

Overall Rating: 75%

JBL’s music hits the speakers and he makes his way down to the ring alone, with his United States Championship over his shoulder. JBL climbs into the ring and walks right up to Teddy Long, yanking the microphone from his hand.

JBL: Let’s get something straight right off the bat, Teddy Long! I did not get counted out at the Great American Bash! I will say that again so that all these slow, retarded rednecks in Corpus Christi, Texas can understand. I… did not… get counted out, at the Great American Bash!

Teddy Long: Then what exactly would you call it?

JBL: I walked out of that damn match! I walked out, because Lashley does not deserve a shot at my title! I walked out of that match, because I can. That match doesn’t even count, because I say so!

Teddy Long: And who are you to say if a match counts or not?

JBL: Who am I? I am a former WWE Champion! I am… a wrestling… GOD! That match should be erased from the books! IT NEVER HAPPENED!

Teddy Long: That match did happen, JBL. And quite frankly, I am getting sick and tired of you acting like you can do whatever you want! This is Smackdown. This is my show. I own you, playa!

JBL: NO BODY OWNS ME! I OWN THIS SHOW! THIS SHOW IS MINE! I AM THE BEST DAMN THING THIS SHOW HAS GOT!

Teddy Long: Wrong. You might be a valuable part of this show, but if you keep defying me… you’re going to be a valuable part of the unemployment line, playa! Now hear this, JBL. I am sick of you going against my orders. And that’s why… you’re going to have to defend that title… one more time… against Lashley.

JBL: NO WAY!

Teddy Long: I make the rules, playa. And you will be defending that title… at SummerSlam!

JBL: This is bull! You put me in a match with that punk again, and I’ll just do the same thing! I’ll just walk out again! Lashley will NEVER deserve a shot at my title!

Teddy Long: I’m not done yet.

The steel cage hanging above the ring begins to lower.

JBL: What’s this?

The cage lowers all the way.

JBL: What the hell is going on, Long?

Teddy Long: JBL… at SummerSlam, you won’t be able to have any help from Jillian. At SummerSlam, you won’t be able to walk out of the match and get yourself counted out. Because, at SummerSlam… you’re going to be confined inside a steel cage! The only way to win… is by pinfall… or submission. And JBL… should you try to escape the cage and make a run for it, you will be disqualified and the United States Championship WILL change hands!

Overall Rating: 83%

JBL doesn’t quite know what to say as Teddy Long walks out of the cage, leaving JBL alone with Lashley. JBL finally turns to walk out of the cage, but Lashley grabs him by the arm. JBL looks back at Lashley, and then at Teddy Long. Teddy Long locks the cage door. JBL slowly looks back to JBL with a scared look on his face. Lashley grabs JBL and drags him to the cage wall and then proceeds to slam his head on the cage repeatedly, busting JBL open! JBL momentarily tries to fight back, managing to break away. He makes a run for the cage, trying to climb it, but Lashley yanks him back down off the cage! Lashley pulls JBL to his feet… DOMINATOR! Lashley stands over the unconscious JBL as the show fades to commercials.

Overall Rating: 81%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Singles Match

Booker T w/ Sharmell vs. Rey Mysterio

The show returns from the break as Booker T’s music hits the speakers. Booker T emerges from the back, finally with Sharmell back at his side. Once Booker is in the ring, Mysterio’s music hits. Mysterio makes his way to the ring and the match begins. Booker T has control from the start, getting in 90% of the offense throughout the match. The other 10% comes from Mysterio in between trying to evade Booker. As the match progresses, Rey Mysterio starts to get in more offense and slowly begins to gain some momentum. Booker T charges at Mysterio and is caught with a drop toe hold into the second rope! Rey Mysterio goes for the 619... And nails it! As Mysterio plays to the crowd on the apron, Mr. Kennedy comes out of nowhere and attacks him from behind! Kennedy forces him into the ring where he continues to beat down on him! The referee calls for the bell as Booker T joins in on the beating!

Winner: By Disqualification, Rey Mysterio

Overall Rating: 79%

As Booker at Mr. Kennedy continue to beat down on Mysterio, Samoa Joe comes running down the aisle and slides into the ring! Joe goes after Booker T, violently tossing him out of the ring. Mr. Kennedy then goes after Joe, only to catch a vicious looking Powerslam! Mr. Kennedy tries to get to his feet but catches a violent looking front drop kick, sending him back to the mat and rolling out of the ring. Samoa Joe then proceeds to help Rey Mysterio to his feet.

Overall Rating: 90%

As Booker and Kennedy head toward the back, still yelling at Mysterio and Joe, Christopher Daniels, CM Punk, and Colt Cabana emerge from the back. Kennedy and Booker back right into them. Kennedy and Booker spin around quick and come face to face with the group. It looks for a moment as if they might fight them, but they realize they are out numbered and continue to the back. Daniels and his group make their way to the ring and Daniels is handed a microphone.

Daniels: Now can you people in the back see what we are capable of? Joe here… just single-handedly chased off two of this company’s brightest stars! And me… well five days ago I ended Gregory Helms’ six month reign as Cruiserweight Champion, in a match that - in this company - could very well be the match of the year! Starting next week, I’m going to show the world what a Cruiserweight Division is supposed to be about, as I begin to take on all challengers in WRESTLING matches! But right now, my boys Punk and Cabana… it’s their time to shine!

Christopher Daniels hands the microphone to CM Punk.

Punk: It seems like a nice turn of events that the number one contenders for the tag titles… aren’t even here tonight. No, they’re not. That’s some dedication isn’t it? That’s what a company like World Wrestling Entertainment does to you! It softens you up! Paul London… Brian Kendrick… they have a rematch clause for those titles… but they’re not hear because they took the night off. That’s dedication. After them, you’ve got Super Crazy and Psicosis. Psicosis is here tonight, but his partner isn’t. And why? It’s not because he’s injured. It’s because he’s “shaken up” after his big dive off the scaffold five days ago! All of these guys… before they came to this company, would go to the ring every night and damn near kill themselves for you people! They could break an arm that night, but go back out there and wrestle because it’s what they loved to do! Now they’re taking nights off because they’re tired… or sore. That’s dedication! So understand this! If none of them have what it takes to be here to challenge for the WWE Tag Team titles… WE DO! We’re here to breathe a little bit of life into this pathetic company, so that’s exactly what we’re going to do! MNM… Joey Mercury… Johnny Nitro… and that little tramp, Melina… get out here and give us a damn shot!

CM Punk tosses the microphone out of the ring as him and Cabana await the arrival of MNM. However, they are soon attacked from behind! It’s Mercury and Nitro! Melina is at ringside yelling orders!

Overall Rating: 67%

CM Punk tosses the microphone out of the ring as him and Cabana await the arrival of MNM. However, they are soon attacked from behind! It’s Mercury and Nitro! Melina is at ringside yelling orders! MNM quickly go after Christopher Daniels, tossing him out of the ring, and then go back to Punk and Cabana. They beat down on them for a few moments, but Punk and Cabana soon begin to come back! Before too long, Punk and Cabana knock Nitro out of the ring, and hit Mercury with their RKO! (And for those of you that forgot, their RKO is a 3D, named the RKO because it basically is an RKO, and they used it on Randy Orton and called it that as an insult.) Punk and Cabana then grab the WWE Tag Team Titles that Mercury and Nitro dropped in the ring, and pose with them. Will they get their title shot?

Overall Rating: 83%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Tag Team Match

Burchill and Psicosis vs. Finlay and William Regal

Out of the four men in Great American Bash’s No DQ, Falls Count Anywhere Tag Team Match, Psicosis is the only one currently cleared to wrestle, and thusly he is teaming up with Burchill tonight. The match is your basic tag team match, with Finlay bullying Psicosis for the majority of the match. Later in the match, Regal and Burchill finally end up in the ring together. Regal goes for the brass knuckles, but Burchill is ready for it. Regal swings at Burchill, and Burchill catches him for Walking The Plank (Should I change the moves name to Sea-4? Since it was called C4 before WWE made him a pirate.) and nails it! 1... 2... 3!

Winners: Burchill and Psicosis

Overall Rating: 77%

The cameras briefly cut to the back to show a bandaged up, but still very much pissed off JBL getting into his limo with Jillian. The limo then speeds away. The cameras cut back to the arena as Chris Benoit’s music hits the speakers. Chris Benoit emerges from the back to some loud boos. He makes his way to the ring with the World Heavyweight Championship around his waist and a smug grin on this face. He is handed a microphone.

Benoit: First of all, I just want to remind you disgusting people… that I am the World… Heavyweight… Champion. But I’m not out here to brag. I’m out here, to introduce you to the greatest sports entertainer to ever live! He is a sixteen time, World Heavyweight Champion! And, he is my new manager! Get on your feet and give this man the standing ovation he deserves! Because he is… RIC… FLAIR!

”WOOOOOOOOOOO!” Ric Flair’s music hits the speakers and The Nature Boy emerges from the back in a suit to a mixed reaction. Flair makes his way to the ring and then proceeds to hug Chris Benoit as the show fades to commercials.

Overall Rating: 93%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

When the show returns from the break, Ric Flair has a microphone.

Flair: WOOOOO! The Nature Boy has been getting questioned all week long. Why screw Kurt Angle out of the title? Why side with Chris Benoit? And most importantly… I’ve been getting asked… what in the hell gives me the power to referee any match he wants to? Well… I’M THE NATURE BOY! WOOOOOOOO! I do… what I want… when I want! Woo! And let me tell you something! Now that two of the FOUR… HORSEMEN… WOOO! Are back in the saddle… that strap is never leaving the waist of Chris Benoit! WOOOO! And there is nobody… NOBODY! That can do anything… about it!

Overall Rating: 87%

The crowd ERUPTS into cheers as the first two chords of Batista’s music echoes throughout the arena. Ric Flair quickly takes off his suit jacket, ready to fight as Batista emerges from the back to deafening cheers. Batista makes his way to the ring with a smile on his face. He climbs into the ring as Benoit and Flair back away to the other side. Batista is handed a microphone. But, before he can even say a word, Benoit and Flair assault him! The two try to beat him down, but Batista starts to fight back, taking it to both of them! Batista gets in a few shots on Benoit, sending him stumbling into the corner. Flair charges at Batista, only to receive a vicious Spinebuster! Benoit, seeing what Batista can do, quickly flees the ring, leaving Ric Flair for the pickings. Batista smiles and pulls Ric Flair to his feet… BATISTA BOMB! Batista stands over Ric Flair, pointing toward Benoit and signaling that he wants the title as the show goes off the air.

Overall Rating: 75%

Overall Show Rating: 78%

Television Rating: 6.16

Attendance: 10,018

Quick Results

- Rey Mysterio def. Booker T via Disqualification

- Burchill and Psicosis def. Finlay and William Regal via Pinfall

NOTE: Yeah, sorry for the incredible lack of matches on this show, but I wanted to get in everything on this show, and ended up having to use matches for two of the segments just to get the four required matches. I don't plan on making a habit of 2 match shows, so don't worry. This was a one time thing.

Edited June 13, 2006 by JairusCain

[JairusCain]

Credit ****.com

Two WWE Superstars Sent To Rehab

July 22, 2006

We can now confirm the rumors that Michael and Mitchell of The Interns being sent to rehab are in fact, true. We received word today that Michael and Mitchell have become the first victims of WWE’s new drug policy. Reports indicate that they were both found using excessive pain medication. As a result, WWE officials have made the call to send them to rehab in hopes of cleaning them up, as they are both still young, and have a lot of potential within the company.

[JairusCain]

Credit WWE.com

A Burning Desire

July 24, 2006

Last week, Kane once again squared off against the giant Big Show. This time however, Kane went too far and attempted to set Big Show on fire. This did not set well with the Big Show, who has challenged Kane to a match we haven’t seen in nearly a decade. The Inferno match! Will Kane finally succeed in what he set out to do last week?

Last Monday, John Cena laid out a challenge. Cena gave The Rock seven days to answer his challenge to a match at SummerSlam. Will The Rock be present to answer the challenge? Also, when RAW went off the air last week, Triple H and Shawn Michaels found themselves staring down Chris Jericho and Chris Masters. What might be in store for these four this week? And, what's next for Rob Van Dam and Edge after Chris Jericho cost RVD his WWE title shot last week?

WWE.com has learned that Michael and Mitchell of The Interns have taken an indefinate leave of absence. This leaves only Kenneth and John to defend the World Tag Team Championships. What does this mean for 3 Minute Warning now that the numbers are even? Also, two matches are set to take place this week, with the winners facing off next week to determine the number one contender for Chris Masters’ Intercontinental Championship. Carlito will take on Rob Conway, and Chavo Guerrero will take on Shelton Benjamin. Who will earn the right to face Chris Masters for his Intercontinental Championship?

All this and much more on Monday Night RAW (9/8 CT; USA Network).

[I Don't Mind]

RAW and GAB were really good, and I'm I was quite dissapointed that I lost the prediction contest by only one point (well, one point would have resulted in a tie so technically two points but still!). Smackdown was a little confusing at points, specifically the New Blood/MNM angle. If Samoa Joe was just there and dismantled Kennedy and Booker T... where did he go when MNM attacked the rest of his stable? Not that it matters too much because The New Blood ended up on top anyways, but it's still perculiar to me.

Very excited about Ric Flair united with Chris Benoit as a II Horsemen type of deal. Hopefully they get a brawl-orientated or technically-sound tag team to join their forces and maybe an up-and-coming star as well.

I think I'm most excited to see the loss of two more "Interns" thus weeding out the weakest links and leaving the strongest ones to survive on their own. Good riddence to bad rubbish.

[JairusCain]

RAW and GAB were really good, and I'm I was quite dissapointed that I lost the prediction contest by only one point (well, one point would have resulted in a tie so technically two points but still!). Smackdown was a little confusing at points, specifically the New Blood/MNM angle. If Samoa Joe was just there and dismantled Kennedy and Booker T... where did he go when MNM attacked the rest of his stable? Not that it matters too much because The New Blood ended up on top anyways, but it's still perculiar to me.

[JairusCain]

Monday July 24, 2006

Live! From Cleveland, Ohio

World Wrestling Entertainment Presents: RAW on USA

As the show comes onto the air, a recap video from last week airs. Followed by the video is the RAW opening video. The cameras cut to the arena as the opening pyro goes off before Rob Conway’s music hits the speakers. The weekly jobber makes his way to the ring before Carlito’s music cuts his off.

Singles Match

Rob Conway vs. Carlito

Once Carlito is in the ring the match begins. Conway gets in a few shots at the beginning, but after the first minute or so, it’s all Carlito. Carlito takes it to Rob Conway for a few minutes. Eventually, Conway starts to get in a few more shots here and there, but not enough to make a difference. Late in the match, Carlito lifts Conway up for a Vertical Suplex. Conway deadweights and gets back down to his feet and quickly gets Carlito up for one. In the process of lifting Carlito, Conway also spins to face the ropes, dropping Carlito’s legs on the top rope… EGO TRIP! Conway goes for the pin! HE HAS HIS LEGS ON THE ROPES! 1... 2... 3! NO WAY! Rob Conway has just advanced for a chance to face Chris Masters for the Intercontinental Championship in two weeks! He will have to face the winner of tonight’s match between Shelton Benjamin and Chavo Guerrero next week on RAW!

Winner: Rob Conway

Overall Rating: 72%

The cameras cut to outside as a black stretch limousine pulls up in the parking garage. The camera moves down toward the back door, but the windows are too dark to see inside. Has The Rock come to RAW to answer John Cena’s challenge?

Overall Rating: 94%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

As the show returns from the break, the cameras are backstage focused on a door that reads “MR. MCMAHON”. The door opens and out walk Kenneth and John with the World Tag Team Championship belts.

Kenneth: Indefinite leave of absence? What the hell is that?

John: I don’t know. But with Nick injured, and those two on this so-called indefinite leave of absence, we’re on our own.

The two start to make their way down the hallway with their heads hanging in disappointment.

Overall Rating: 75%

As they’re making their way down the hall, Rosey and Jamal come out of nowhere and blindside them! Rosey and Jamal beat the living crap out of them while Palmer Canon stands in the back laughing. After they are done, and Kenneth and John are lying in heaps on the floor, Canon shouts out about how the World Tag Team Championships are going to be 3 Minute Warning’s soon.

Overall Rating: 61%

The cameras cut to the arena as the D-Generation X music hits the speakers. Triple H and Shawn Michaels emerge from the back to a big ovation. They make their way to the ring while playing to the crowd. Triple H is handed a microphone.

Triple H: Are you ready? I said, are… you… READY? Then, for the thousands in attendance and the millions watching at home. Lllllllllllllllllllleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeets tell Jericho and Masters to SUCK IIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTTT!

Triple H hands the microphone to Shawn Michaels.

HBK: Let’s keep this short and sweet. You guys messed with the wrong people last week… and we showed you exactly what happens. We can beat you two any day of the week. Jericho, I’ve already got a WrestleMania victory of you. And Chris Masters? I’ve got a match with you up next, but beating you is gonna be easier than making the Hitman tap out! You can’t even defend his championship against a real challenger!

Overall Rating: 94%

Just as Michaels says that, Jericho and Masters hop the guard rail and slide into the ring, attacking Michaels and Triple H. Jericho gets in a few shots on Triple H before clotheslining him over the top rope to the outside. Masters gets in a number of shots on Michaels before a referee hurries down to the ring. The referee calls for the bell to start the match.

Overall Rating: 91%

Non-Title Match

Chris Masters© vs. Shawn Michaels

Masters, due to the attack, has control right from the start. Masters takes Michaels down before taunting the crowd as the show fades to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

The show returns from the break with Chris Masters still in control. The match continues as such, with Triple H and Chris Jericho both trying to interfere, not to mention trying to kill each other on the outside. Masters sends Michaels into the ropes, where Jericho trips him up. Triple H attacks Jericho on the outside. Masters approaches Michaels, who is still next to the ropes trying to regain his composure. Triple H hops up on the apron and throws a punch at Masters. The referee has had enough. He ejects Triple H AND Chris Jericho from ringside, to a mixed reaction from the crowd. Inside the ring, Chris Masters throws a fit about Jericho being ejected. Masters spins around and Michaels is right there with punches. Michaels continues to gain momentum, but it is soon squashed by the young Masterpiece. Before long, Masters locks on the Masterlock, but Michaels fights it. He drags Masters near the corner and shoves himself off the second rope with his legs, causing Masters to fall backward, with Michaels landing on top of him! The referee counts the cover! 1... 2... No! Masters breaks the hold and gets a shoulder up. Both men get to their feet and Masters swings at Michaels. Michaels ducks! Masters spins around… SWEET CHIN MUSIC! HBK goes for the cover! 1... 2... 3!

Winner: Shawn Michaels

Overall Rating: 79%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Singles Match

Shelton Benjamin vs. Chavo Guerrero

The commercial break comes to an end as the cameras return to the arena just as Shelton Benjamin’s music hits the speakers. Once he is in the ring, Chavo’s music hits. Chavo makes his way to the ring and the match begins. The match goes back and forth for a couple of minutes, but then Shelton starts to gain control. Shelton gains quite a bit of momentum, and eventually hit’s the Dragon Whip! He goes for the cover! 1... 2... Chavo kicks out! Shelton continues his offense for a few moments before hooking Chavo for the Exploder! No! Chavo counters out! Stalling Vertical Suplex! Both men get to their feet. Drop kick from Chavo! Both men are up again! Three Amigos! Chavo goes to the top rope. FROG SPLASH! 1... 2... 3!

Winner: Chavo Guerrero

Overall Rating: 90%

The cameras cut to the back where Edge and Lita stand in front of the interview set. Edge wears the WWE Championship over his shoulder.

Edge: RVD… Don’t for one second think that I NEEDED Jericho’s help last week! I didn’t! I would’ve beat you no matter what! Just like I’m going to at SummerSlam! But… in a nice… twist of fate…

Edge and Lita look at one another and chuckle.

Edge: You told Jericho two weeks ago that he wasn’t going to get in your way of winning the WWE Championship. Haha. Oh, how wrong you were! Because that’s exactly what he did last week! Kind of… because I still would’ve won without his help! I… Well look who it is!

Rob Van Dam walks onto the screen and gets right in Edge’s face. The two get nose to nose, both looking like they’re ready to kill one another. Neither man says a word. After a few seconds, RVD takes a couple steps back and then looks at the WWE Championship on Edge’s shoulder. RVD looks back up at Edge and then walks away.

Overall Rating: 88%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

As the show returns from the break, John Cena’s music hit the speakers. Cena makes his way to the ring where he is handed a microphone.

Cena: Well, well, well. Seven days are up! It looks like it’s time for The Rock to ball up and answer the challenge! So Rock… how about you come out here and do just that!

Cena waits a few seconds, but nothing happens.

Cena: Come on Rock! We don’t have all damn night! Get your ass out here!

Again, nothing happens.

Cena: That’s it! I said that if you didn’t come out to answer the challenge, I’d find you and beat the answer out of you! I’m comin’ back there to find you and kick your ass, ‘cuz I know you’re here!

John Cena drops the microphone to the mat and climbs out of the ring. He starts making his way up the ramp toward the stage while cursing toward The Rock. Just as Cena reaches the top of the ramp… “IF YA SMELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!” The Rock’s music hits the speakers and the crowd erupts into cheers. The Rock emerges from behind the curtain and goes right after John Cena! The two begin to brawl while making their way back down the ramp toward the stage. By the time they get to the ring, John Cena is wailing on The Rock! Cena tosses The Rock into the ring and follows him in. Cena measures him up for the FU, waiting for him to get to his feet. The Rock finally gets to his feet and Cena hoists him up onto his shoulders! NO! Rock manages to fight his way out! Cena spins around and gets nails with a right hand! Another! And another! The Rock reels back and spits in his hand… and BLASTS Cena with another right hand! Cena stumbles toward The Rock! ROCK BOTTOM! CENA IS OUT! The Rock picks the microphone back up off the mat.

Rock: In case that wasn’t clear enough for you… The Rock says SummerSlam… you’re on! IF YA SMELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL… What The Rock…. Is cookin’!

The Rock towers over John Cena as the show fades to commercials.

Overall Rating: 96%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Inferno Match

Kane vs. Big Show

The show returns from the break with the cameras showing the pyrotechnic rig around the ring. Of course, they haven’t turned it on yet, seeing as how the competitors still need to get into the ring. After a few seconds, Kane’s pyro explodes from the stage and he makes his way out from the back, once again donning the black towel over his head. Kane begins to make his way down the ramp when MICK FOLEY runs out from behind the curtain, attacking Kane from behind! Foley then proceeds to beat the crap out of Kane all the way down to the ring. Foley pulls a chair out from under the ring and turns around to hit Kane, but Kane catches him with a right hand. Foley drops the chair before Kane delivers a few more shots to Foley. Kane grabs Foley by the wrist, pushes him back a few steps, and then proceeds to launch him into the ring steps with a strong Irish whip. Foley CRASHES into the steps, flipping over them and hitting the barricade!

Kane approaches Foley and pulls him up to his feet, but Foley starts to fight back. They brawl their way around the ring, and eventually find themselves back near the ramp. The brawling continues for a few moments, as Kane backs his way up toward the ring. Foley delivers a hard shot to Kane, spinning him around and causing him to stumble right into the pyrotechnic rig, which still is not turned on. Kane uses the ring to hold himself up for a moment. Just as he goes to turn away, flames SHOOT up out of the rig for a split second right into Kane’s face! Of course, it’s not enough to actually leave burn marks, but the heat and the element of surprise catch Kane off guard! He yells, thinking he’s been badly burnt, and stumbles back. Foley BLASTS him in the back of the head with the steel chair, knocking him to the floor! Kane is out cold! Mick Foley stands over Kane with a smile on his face. The cameras zoom in on the sadistic Mick Foley as the show goes off the air.

Winner: No Contest

Overall Rating: 82%

Overall Show Rating: 83%

Television Rating: 6.85

Attendance: 10,010

Quick Results:

- Rob Conway def. Carlito via Pinfall

- Shawn Michaels def. Chris Masters via Pinfall

- Chavo Guerrero def. Shelton Benjamin via Pinfall

- Kane drew Big Show via interference from Mick Foley

Edited June 13, 2006 by JairusCain

[JairusCain]

Credit WWE.com

Champions Versus Challengers

July 28, 2006

General Manager Teddy Long has announced that this week, The World Heavyweight Champion will team up with the United States Champion, to take on their respective challengers. Can Batista and Lashley pick up a win over Chris Benoit and JBL? Also, former number one contender, Kurt Angle was absent last week. Will he be present this week on Smackdown?

Also, things have gotten a little complicated in the WWE Tag Team division. Christopher Daniels’ Second City Saints, CM Punk and Colt Cabana have laid out a challenge to MNM for the WWE Tag Team Championships, but The Mexicools are the number one contenders. Super Crazy will be back this week, so all three teams will be in full strength. What’s in store for them all? Also in the tag team division, Noble and Kash are set to take on former WWE Tag Team Champions, London and Kendrick.

Mr. Kennedy has some explaining to do after his actions last week, attacking Rey Mysterio during his match. And why did Samoa Joe come to the aide of Rey Mysterio? Perhaps we will find out this week, but in the meantime, Samoa Joe will be taking on Finlay in singles competition!

Don’t miss all of this and much more this week on Friday Night Smackdown at 8/7 CT on UPN.

[JairusCain]

Friday July 28, 2006

Live! From Detroit, Michigan

World Wrestling Entertainment Presents: Smackdown on UPN

The show comes on the air with the cameras in the back. A door leading to outside opens and Kurt Angle steps through. The camera pans out to reveal that Kurt Angle is on crutches and has a huge brace-like cast on his left leg that goes from just above his ankle, to just below his hip. Kurt Angle makes his way into the arena as the camera fades to black.

Overall Rating: 90%

The usual Smackdown opener airs, followed by the opening pyrotechnics. As soon as the pyro is done, Finlay’s music hits the speakers.

Singles Match

Samoa Joe vs. Finlay

Once Finlay is in the ring, the music of the New Blood hits the speakers and Samoa Joe makes his way to the ring. The match goes back and forth throughout. There are some incredibly stiff moves throughout the match as well. Samoa Joe has control for the most part, but Finlay occasionally gains some momentum, only for Joe to shut him down. Samoa Joe hoists Finlay onto the top rope… MUSCLE BUSTER! Joe locks on the Kokina Clutch! Finlay taps! The New Blood’s music hits once again as Samoa Joe celebrates his victory. The music cuts off abruptly though, when Finlay attacks him from behind with his shillelagh. I guess Finlay isn’t happy about losing. After a few moments, Mr. Kennedy hurries to the ring and joins in on the beating!

Winner: Samoa Joe

Overall Rating: 74%

After Kennedy and Finlay beat down on Joe for a few moments, Mysterio runs down to the ring and tries to make the save! Kennedy quickly disposes of him and ends up hitting him with the Green Bay Plunge! At the same time, Finlay muscles Joe up and hits him with the Emerald Fusion! Mysterio and Joe both end up rolling out of the ring to the floor. Mr. Kennedy is handed a microphone.

Overall Rating: 73%

Kennedy: A man that once worked here… used to call himself, the Legend Killer. The only problem with that, is that he went after the so-called legends that had to come out of retirement for him to beat them! Me… I kill the legends… BEFORE they become legends! Two weeks ago, at the Great American Bash, I ended The Undertaker’s career! Yes, he is already a legend, but I am just getting started! Now… Now I’m going to do the same thing that I did to The Undertaker… to the FORMER… World Heavyweight Champion, Rey Mysterio!

Mr. Kennedy tosses the microphone out of the ring and smiles as his music hits the speakers.

Overall Rating: 86%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Tag Team Match

Noble and Kash vs. London and Kendrick

The show returns from the break as Noble and Kash’s music comes over the speakers. Noble and Kash make their way to the ring. Once they are in the ring, London and Kendrick’s music hits. They make their way out from the back and the match begins. The match goes back and forth, with both teams displaying some amazing mat work and a touch of high flying. As the match progresses, it seems as though London and Kendrick are going to pick up the ring, but at the last minute, Kash rolls up London and gets his feet on the ropes! Noble darts across the ring to stop Kendrick from breaking up the count! 1... 2... 3!

Winners: Noble and Kash

Overall Rating: 91%

As the two teams make their way toward the back, a WrestleMania 23 graphic appears on the screen. The graphic notes that WrestleMania will emanate from here in Detroit on March 25, 2007. Michael Cole and Tazz hype the living shit out of it, saying it will be the biggest WrestleMania of all time, etc.. The graphic soon disappears from the screen as Gregory Helms’ music hits the speakers.

Cruiserweight Championship

Gregory Helms vs. Christopher Daniels©

Gregory Helms emerges from the back, looking as pissed as ever. He makes his way to the ring before the show fades to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

When the show returns from the break, the New Blood music hits once again. Christopher Daniels emerges from the back to a decent pop from the crowd, the Cruiserweight Championship proudly strapped around his waist. Daniels makes his way to the ring and the match begins. The match starts out going back and forth, but within a couple of minutes, Gregory Helms starts to gain momentum. The momentum is short lived and the match returns to back and forth action. The two attempt to out wrestle one another as the match rages on. Helms gets Daniels down and then goes for the Enziguri! Daniels ducks! Helms spins around… ANGLE’S WINGS! 1... 2... 3!

Winner: And STILL Cruiserweight Champion, Christopher Daniels

Overall Rating: 82%

The cameras cut to the back as Booker T and Sharmell are walking around backstage. As they walk, they come across Mr. Kennedy and Finlay conversing.

Booker: Hey, hey, guys.

Kennedy: What’s up, Book?

Booker: Listen. I heard what you said out there earlier.

Finlay: And?

Booker: And… I saw what you could do last week, even though you cost me my match in the process.

Kennedy: Does this have a point to it, Booker?

Booker: Excuse me? Show me some respect, son. My point is, I have an idea. Walk with me.

Kennedy and Finlay look at one another and shrug. The group all walk off together, talking, as the show fades to commercials.

Overall Rating: 91%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Triple Threat Match

Psicosis w/ Super Crazy vs. CM Punk w/ Colt Cabana vs. Joey Mercury w/ Johnny Nitro and Melina

The show returns from the break as the New Blood music once again hits the speakers. CM Punk and Colt Cabana emerge from the back and make their way to the ring. Following their entrance, the Mexicools’ music comes over the speakers. Psicosis, with Super Crazy at his side, makes his way to the ring. Once they are to the ring, MNM’s music hits the speakers. Joey Mercury steps out from behind the curtain, followed by Johnny Nitro and Melina. Once Mercury makes it to the ring, the match begins. The match is all over the place, as is to be expected in a Triple Threat, with four more people on the outside. There are occasions where Psicosis teams up on Punk with Mercury. There are instances where Punk and Mercury team up against Psicosis. However, for the most part, Psicosis and Punk are both gunning for Joey Mercury. Late in the match, Psicosis attacks Punk after double teaming Mercury. Psicosis sends Punk into the ropes, where Nitro trips him up and yanks him out of the ring. Cabana, who is on the other side of the ring, sees this and jumps on the apron to complain. With the referee distracted, Psicosis gets in a few shots on Mercury. However, Melina climbs into the ring and low blows Psicosis! This enables Mercury to hit a standing Tornado DDT! Cabana finally gives up and hops off the apron. The referee rushes over to make the count! 1... 2... 3!

Winner: Joey Mercury

Overall Rating: 79%

The cameras cut to the back to show a close up of Burchill. Burchill smiles and points off screen. The camera pans over to reveal a door with a sign reading “WILLIAM REGAL.” Burchill puts his finger over his mouth, as if to say “shhh” and then opens the door. Burchill walks in, sneaking up behind Regal, who is reading a magazine.

Burchill: … BANG!

Regal LEAPS out of his chair and yells, throwing the magazine across the room in the process. Regal spins around to see Burchill. Regal’s mood goes for terrified to angry.

Burchill: Tell me something, mate.

Regal: What, you bloody scumbag?

Burchill: Ouch. No need for name calling. Tell me, Mr. Regal. How does it feel, to be beaten by Batista… and me… all within five days?

Regal stares at Burchill and smirks. Regal looks away for a moment, but then whips back with a left hand to Burchill’s jaw! Burchill is laid out on the floor.

Regal: That’s how it feels! And next week… you and me, we’re finishing things once and for all! Now get the bloody hell out of my dressing room!

Regal gets in a kick to Burchill’s ribs. The show fades to commercials, but now before Tazz informs the viewing audience that Kurt Angle will be coming up next.

Overall Rating: 80%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

The broadcast returns just as Kurt Angle’s music hits the speakers. Angle emerges from the back to a huge ovation. He slowly makes his way toward the ring on his crutches. He gets to the ring and refuses help getting in. Once inside, he is handed a microphone.

Angle: You know, I’ve always been the kind of man, to work through an injury. In my career, I have sustained damn near as many injures as Mick freakin’ Foley! And just like him, I’m still walkin’! I’ve had broken ribs, broken noses, concussions, you name it! Hell, I’ve had a broken friggin’ neck! But nothing has kept me out of this damn ring! Oh, it’s true. NOTHING… can keep me away from this ring! Chris Benoit… at the Great American Bash, you may have broken my leg. You may have forced me to get this ridiculous brace and these annoying crutches. You may have forced me to take some time off. You may have forced me to miss SummerSlam! But there’s one thing you didn’t do, Benoit. You didn’t kill me! And that was your only mistake! Ya see, this leg. It’s gonna heal. And I’m gonna come back to this ring. And Chris Benoit… Ric Flair or no Ric Flair. Wooo or no freakin’ wooo… I’m gonna come back after you! And I’m gonna take that title! And that… Benoit… that’s DAMN true!

Kurt Angle drops the microphone as his music hits the speakers.

Overall Rating: 96%

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Tag Team Match

Batista and Lashley vs. Chris Benoit and JBL w/ Ric Flair and Jillian

The break comes to an end as JBL’s music comes over the speakers. JBL emerges from the back with Jillian at his side. He smiles as he makes his way to the ring with the United States Championship strapped around his waist. Once he is in the ring, Chris Benoit’s music hits. Benoit emerges from the back with Ric Flair, wearing the World Heavyweight Championship. Once Chris Benoit is in the ring, Lashley’s music comes over the speakers. He makes his way to the ring and shows no fear by climbing into the ring, going face to face with his opponents. This proves to be a bad idea, as they quickly attack him. The double team continues for a few seconds before Batista’s music explodes through the arena, as does the crowd! Batista emerges from the back to a thunderous ovation and hurries to the ring. Batista storms the ring and goes after JBL. He sends JBL into the ropes and nails him with a huge Spinebuster. Benoit reverts his attention to Batista, but Batista starts to take it to him with punches. That is short lived, as JBL quickly comes back and turns things to a double team on Batista. After a few moments, the referee restores order and Batista starts the match with JBL.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

When the show returns from the break, Lashley is in the ring with Chris Benoit, being kept at bay by Benoit’s precise and calculated attacks. Benoit and Lashley make some frequent tags, weakening the monster that is Lashley. Eventually, JBL is in the ring with Lashley. Lashley finds an opening and makes the hot tag to Batista. Batista enters the ring and clotheslines JBL to the mat. Benoit hurries into the ring. Spinebuster! Batista spins around to come to blows with JBL. In a split second, Spinebuster to JBL as well! Batista is on fire! Batista pulls JBL to his feet and sets him up for the Batista Bomb! BUT, while Batista does his thumbs down taunt, Benoit cuts him off! Benoit catches him with a few blows, sending him stumbling back to his corner. Lashley tags himself back in! Lashley storms the ring, clotheslining Benoit over the top rope to the outside! Lashley turns around just as JBL is getting to his feet. Lashley gets in a kick… DOMINATOR! Lashley goes for the cover! 1... 2... 3!

Benoit hurries back into the ring and attacks Lashley just as he starts to celebrate! However, Batista quickly comes to Lashley’s aid. Batista sets Benoit up for the Batista Bomb! NO! RIC FLAIR FROM BEHIND WITH A LOW BLOW! Flair and Benoit quickly roll out of the ring. Benoit grabs his World Heavyweight Championship and then the two hurry toward the aisle. The cameras show Benoit and Flair backing up the aisle, Benoit holding his head with one hand and holding his belt in the other, while Ric Flair has his arm around him, reassuring him that he can take Batista. The cameras then show Batista in the ring with a smile. The show goes off the air as Batista points as Benoit and says he is going to take his title.

Winners: Batista and Lashley

Overall Rating: 81%

Overall Show Rating: 82%

Television Rating: 5.91

Attendance: 10,003

Quick Results:

- Samoa Joe def. Finlay via Pinfall

- Noble and Kash def. London and Kendrick via Pinfall

- Christopher Daniels def. Gregory Helms to retain the Cruiserweight Championship via Pinfall

- Joey Mercury def. Psicosis and CM Punk via Pinfall after interference from Melina

- Batista and Lashley def. Chris Benoit and JBL via Pinfall

Edited June 13, 2006 by JairusCain

[JairusCain]

Credit WWE.com

World Heavyweight Championship/SummerSlam

July 29, 2006

WWE.com has just learned that Batista will be challenging Chris Benoit at SummerSlam for the World Heavyweight Championship. This announcement comes off the heels of Batista and Lashley's win over Chris Benoit and JBL last night on Smackdown! Can Batista regain the title that he never actually lost? Be sure to call your local cable provider for details on how to order SummerSlam on August 20th to find out!

Edited June 13, 2006 by JairusCain

[JairusCain]

Credit WWE.com

Corporate Degeneration

July 31, 2006

Seven days ago on RAW, Shawn Michaels defeated Corporation member, and Intercontinental Champion, Chris Masters. During the match, both Triple H and Chris Jericho were ejected from ringside for interfering, not to mention fighting with one another. This week, The King of Kings and the King of the World, will go head to head in the main event! Can Triple H follow in the footsteps of his partner and defeat Chris Jericho? And, The Rock answered John Cena’s challenge last week for SummerSlam. What’s in store for these two this week?

Last week, Kane and the Big Show were set to meet in the first Inferno match in nearly a decade. The match, however, never took place, as Kane was attacked on his way to the ring by his SummerSlam opponent, Mick Foley. During the brawl, fire erupted from the Inferno rig, blasting Kane in the face with flames. What kind of shape is Kane in? Also, several weeks ago, Mick Foley was set for a sit-down interview with Jim Ross. That interview was interrupted by Kane. This week, from the WWE Headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, the interview will finally take place. What will Mick Foley have to say?

The mini-tournament for a shot at Chris Masters’ Intercontinental Championship continues this week when Rob Conway squares off with Chavo Guerrero. Who will advance and face Chris Masters next week on RAW? Let’s not forget about 3 Minute Warning! They attacked the World Tag Team Champions last week, promising to take their titles soon. When, exactly, is soon?

All this and much more on Monday Night RAW (9/8 CT; USA Network).