WWE Smackdown's Savior

[mrhelm]

Wednesday, September 8, 2004

Smackdown wasn't quite as spectacular as last week's show, but it proved to be a good build towards No Mercy on October 3. The battle royal alone allowed me to progress four different story plots I've got going right now. Plus, the main event got to show us a little of what RVD and JBL can pull off, not to mention the greatness of Eddie Guerrero and Booker T.

And Chavo Guerrero is quickly gaining the charisma of his Uncle Eddie. I expect big things to come for the former cruiserweight champion in the next few months.

[mrhelm]

The Recap: Smackdown (9-9-2004)

10 Man Over the Top Rope Battle Royal for the Cruiserweight #1 contendership: Akio, Billy Kidman, Chavo Guerrero, Funaki, Kid Kash, Juventud Guerrera, Nicho Millonario, Paul London, Spike Dudley, and Ultimo Dragon

Insane cruiserweight action was the best way to describe this battle. Akio found himself to be the first man eliminated as the #1 contenders to his tag title, Juvi and Nicho, double-teamed him for his elimination. Kid Kash and Spike Dudley than eliminated Los Luchadores Loco from behind. The returning Ultimo Dragon then attacked Kash, eliminating him from the match. Meanwhile, Paul London attacked his tag partner, quickly eliminating Billy Kidman. Funaki was next, eliminated by a double team by London and Spike Dudley. London and Spike went after Ultimo Dragon next, but a surprise attack from Chavo Guerrero eliminates Spike Dudley, just as London removes Ultimo from the match. Chavo and Paul London face off for just a few seconds before Nunzio runs in to interfere. He tries to lay out Chavo, but Guerrero ducks and Nunzio clotheslines London instead. Seconds later, Chavo sends London over the top rope to pick up the win and the #1 contendership.

Rating: ** 3/4

Christian and Tyson Tomko are backstage with Josh Matthews. Christian tells Josh that he will become the US champion very soon and no All American loser would stop him.

Vince McMahon comes out to the ring where he rips in to Kurt Angle. This quickly brings out Angle and the two yell at each other in the ring. Angle then slaps McMahon and the two start trading blows. Angle quickly Angle slams McMahon and McMahon grabs the mic and yells for security. Police officers come down to the ring where they handcuff and drag Angle away.

Charlie Haas vs Tyson Tomko

Charlie Haas took it to the larger, more powerful Tyson Tomko for most of the match, keeping control of the big man. But it all proved for naught, as Christian charged down to the ring and floored Haas with a steel chair. The ref rewarded the DQ victory to Haas but it doesn't stop Tomko and Christian from laying the boots in to Haas.

Rating: **

Nunzio was backstage with Funaki. He said that he didn't care if his opponent was Chavo Guerrero, as he would maintain his Cruiserweight title against anyone.

Ultimo Dragon is shown backstage where he's packing up after his match. Out of nowhere, Kid Kash attacks him from behind, brutally beating the Japanese star in to the ground. Kash screamed at Dragon that he would regret ever meeting him in WWE.

Big Show vs Orlando Jordan (w/ Torrie Wilson)

Utter squash. Show stopped Orlando Jordan in to the mat before picking up the win with the Show Stopper.

Rating: * 1/2.

John Bradshaw Layfield comes down to the ring. He begins to cut a promo about his apparent greatness, but is quickly interrupted by Rob Van Dam. RVD challenges JBL to a match at No Mercy. The two stare each other down before JBL accepts.

Paul London is backstage when Billy Kidman walks up. Kidman asks London what his problem is, which just brings a shove from London. The two of them trade punches, before London pulls away and leaves, saying nothing.

Eddie Guerrero was backstage with Josh Matthews. He tells Josh that he's ready for Booker T, and he planned on showing just how ready in the tag team match tonight.

Rob Van Dam and Eddie Guerrero vs Booker T and John Bradshaw Layfield

This match moved back and forth rather quickly with both teams picking up near fall after near fall. Booker T attacked Guerrero with a vengeance in the contest, but he couldn't pick up the win without a handful of tights. RVD and Guerrero didn't stop there as they rushed their enemies, attacking and throwing them from the ring. The pair stand triumphant as Smackdown comes to an end.

Rating: *** 1/2

Overall Rating: 6/10. Solid although not particularly exceptional show. Still some good stuff though, as Smackdown is finally letting some of its more talented superstars take the screen.

[mrhelm]

Friday, September 10, 2004

Smackdown came off on television a little better than I expected which is always a good thing. I really like how the cruiserweight battle royal played out, as it serves to set up four different ongoing storylines on Smackdown television in the upcoming weeks including both the tag and cruiserweight title feuds plus Kidman/London and Kash/Ultimo.

The RVD/JBL feud is building up steadily and should be a good ongoing feud. Eddie vs Booker T seems to really be working wonders as well, but I'd expect no less from two veterans as qualified as they. All in all, I'm really happy with the build up to No Mercy that we've begun.

[mrhelm]

The Recap: Velocity (September 11, 2004)

Velocity opens with a dedication to those who died on 9/11/2001.

Moore Hott vs the Bombshells

Once again the team of Scotty 2 Hotty and Shannon Moore proved themselves to be one of the most innovative high-flying teams in the business, but for all their skill they could not overcome the superior strength of Jindrak and Dupree. The pair double team Scotty, hitting their Doomsday Device variation, the Drop the Bomb.

Rating: *** 1/2

We go backstage where Orlando Jordan and Torrie Wilson are walking and holding hands. They are stopped by Nunzio and Chuck Palumbo who attack them. They seem to be in real trouble until the Bashams run in from behind and take down Nunzio and Palumbo. Doug and Danny help Orlando and Torrie to their feets as the FBI slinks off.

Jamie Noble vs Sakoda

Two heels put on what proves to be a clean contest as Noble took on Sakoda. Sakoda's power wrestling skills hit Noble hard, but Jamie continued to work the back and legs of Sakoda throughout the match, allowing him to pick up the submission victory with the Trailer Hitch.

Rating: ** 1/4

Orlando Jordan is backstage soothing the crying Torrie Wilson. Torrie thanks him for everything and the two then start to kiss.

Rico vs Nunzio

Rico takes it to the cruiserweight champion in this match but Nunzio's technical skills allow him to stay fairly even with the flamboyant martial artist. But it all comes down to Nunzio's proficiency at cheatin as the cruiserweight champion would use the ropes as he covered Rico to pick up the 1-2-3.

Rating: ****

Chavo charges the ring after the match with a chair and Nunzio quickly hightails it in to the stands.

Paul Heyman is backstage with Funaki and the Dudley Boyz. Heyman tells Funaki that the Dudleys were there tonight to stomp a whole in to the Basham Brothers and it would just be another step in their quest to regain the tag team titles.

The Basham Brothers vs the Dudley Boyz

The Dudleys hit the Bashams with everything they had but the Bashams came out on fire tonight, taking it all and giving the Dudleys everything right back. The Bashams seemed to be a team possesses as they took control of the match. Doug Basham set up the finish with a tiger bomb on D-Von, which allowed the Bashams to double team Bubba Ray Dudley and hit the Double Damage for the win.

Rating: ****

Overall Rating: 5/10. Good solid matches on this show with the ever improving Basham Brothers taking the MVP slot. All in all an excellent show. Thumbs up.

[mrhelm]

Monday, September 13, 2004

I spent the last of the week down in OVW checking on our development talent in action. Two of my signees have really taking it to the next level in Louisville. Joey Matthews was already an OVW regular when I signed him but he's grown quite a lot from his days as partner to Christian York. I've already began plans to bring him to the main roster in a support role.

The other talent that's really impressed me above all others would be Harry Smith. The son of the late British Bulldog, Harry is a big man who moves like a cruiserweight. I think he could really prove to be a future power player in WWE and he's likely to debut in the next few weeks as well. Hopefully, both men can prove themselves to be ready for the big time when they do.

[mrhelm]

Tuesday, September 14, 2004

Official preview for Smackdown on September 16

Smackdown explodes on to your TV as this week's edition features the return of a team no one ever thought they'd see again. Eddie Guerrero and Chavo Guerrero have certainly had their differences in the past, but now they'll have to set those differents aside if they hope to win against the team of Booker T and Nunzio.

Plus, Kurt Angle will be back this week, and he's sure to have word for Mr. McMahon after his arrest last week. Will the American hero take his frustrations out on the company CEO once again this week?

Plus, Los Luchadores Loco get their shots at the tag titles tonight. Will the innovative Mexican stars be able to pull one over on the Axis Powers or will Akio and Sakoda once again pull out the victory.

All this plus more of your favorite Smackdown superstars, Thursday night, on UPN!

[mrhelm]

Wednesday, September 15, 2004

I've got to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reuniting Los Guerreros last night, even if it proves to be only a one shot match. Eddie and Chavo just work so incredibly well together. I think Smackdown really came together as a live show, hopefully it will do the same when televised.

Kenzo Suzuki is already ready to return to the ring, several weeks ahead of schedule. He's already down in OVW working off any ring rust and should be back by the first week in October at the latest.

[mrhelm]

The Royal Treatment: Smackdown (9.16.04)

Ultimo Dragon vs Jamie Noble

Ultimo and Noble size one another up as the match gets under way. Noble charges in with a clothesline, but Ultimo Dragon ducks under. Dropkick by Ultimo Dragon. Ultimo scores with a standing leg drop on Noble. He covers but only gets a two count. Noble reverses an armbar with a couple of elbows to the side of the head than lands a facecrusher. Noble goes to the corner and climbs to the top but Ultimo is quick to his feet and follows. The two exchange blows on the top rope. Noble lifts Ultimo up, looking like he's going for a tiger bomb from the top... but Ultimo reverses and sends Noble crashing to the mat with a hurracanrana. Ultimo is dazed for a few seconds before he covers, and Noble's able to just get the shoulder up before three. Both men stagger to their feet. Noble ducks a high kick from Ultimo Dragon, than charges in to him with a clothesline. Noble backs up and hits the ropes than charges in to land another clothesline on Ultimo. Noble tries to lock Ultimo Dragon in to the Trailer Hitch, but Ultimo powers to the ropes. Noble grabs Ultimo by the legs and pulls him free of the ropes, but as he does so he takes another hurracanrana! Noble staggers around the ring... Asai DDT! Ultimo Dragon gets the pinfall and the victory!

Rating: 7/10

Thoughts: An excellent match to remind us who Ultimo Dragon is and exactly how good he can be. Jamie Noble proves to be an excellent foil for him as he's a proficient cruiserweight in his own right. Good stuff.

-Commercial-

After the break, we learn of an attack by Kid Kash during the commercial. Kash charges in to the ring out of nowhere to hit Ultimo Dragon from behind with a chair. As we return live, EMTs are helping Ultimo Dragon from the ring.

Charlie Haas is changing in to his ring gear in the locker room when out of nowhere Christian attacks. Charlie brawls with Christian pushing him back towards the door when Tyson Tomko charges in and hits Haas as well. Tomko and Christian beat down Haas, leaving him unconscious in the locker room.

-Commercial-

We return to Smackdown with Kid Kash standing by with Josh Matthews. Kash tells Josh that he's out to show Smackdown that he's a power player and Ultimo Dragon will just be his first victim.

We get a replay of Los Luchadores Loco scoring the victory over Kidman and London to become the #1 contenders to the tag titles.

Los Luchadores Loco vs Akio and Sakoda © for the WWE Tag Team titles

Nicho Millonario and and Akio start the match out. The two lock up but Akio scores with a kick to the gut to take control. Kick to the midsection by Akio leads to a roundhouse to the side of Nicho's head. Akio springs off the second rope than does a full flip before dropping a leg on Nicho. Akio covers, but Nicho kicks out just before three. Akio tags out to Sakoda. Akio and Sakoda whip Nicho in to the ropes and hit a double back elbow. Sakoda hits Nicho with a back suplex that drops him right on the head. Sakoda covers but Juventud Guerrera dives in to save his partner. Sakoda backs up and charges in with a Roaring Elbow, but Nicho ducks under it. Nicho scores with a kcik to the gut on Sakoda. He hits the ropes, than lands a face crusher on Sakoda. Nicho tags out to Juventud Guerrera. Juvi hits a flying kick right in to the face of Sakoda and Sakoda goes flying. Juvi springs to the top rope than comes off with a fyling cross body and Sakoda goes down. Juvi covers but Sakoda kicks out after two. Juvi hooks on an armbar with scissors, but Sakoda powers up to his feet. Tag to Akio. Akio springs over the top rope and scores with a kick right to the head of Juvi. Akio quickly goes to work on the leg of Juvi, twisting it sideways than landing kick after kick to it. Juventud Guerrera whips his other foot up in to the side of Akio's head to free himself. Juventud staggers to his feet. Akio tries to whip Guerrera across the ring, but Juvi reverses, sending Akio straight in to the ref. Juventud grabs Akio and signals for the Juvi Driver, but Sakoda grabs the ring bell from outside and smashes it in to the head of Guerrera. Akio falls on top of Juventud just as the ref awakens. But the ref sees Sakoda with the ring bell and calls for the DQ!

Rating: 8/10

Thoughts: A thoroughly amazing match marred only by the DQ ending at the end. Obviously, we'll going to see a different match for the titles at No Mercy, perhaps a three-way match with another team added.

Nicho charges in to the ring and begins brawling with Sakoda. Suddenly, the Dudley Boyz music hits and Bubba Ray and D-Von charge n to the ring and lay waist to both teams. The Dudleys grab the belts, declaring themselves the next tag champions.

-Commercial-

Backstage, Rob Van Dam runs in to Christian. He tells Christian that his attack on Charlie Haas was way uncool, so why doesn't he try to show his stuff against Mr. Thursday Night himself. Christian just smirks and agrees to meet RVD in the ring tonight.

Kurt Angle comes down to the ring where he grabs a microphone. He only gets out two words before Mr. McMahon's music hits, and Vince walks out on to the entrance ramp. Vince tells Kurt that he's made a match for Angle at No Mercy. Kurt tells Vince to stop standing behind his stooges and face him himself but as he speaks Big Show comes out of the crowd behind him. Kurt turns just in time to get choked by Big Show. Show chokeslams Angle down and as Angle lays prone in the ring, Vince shouts that his opponent will be none other than the Big Show!

-Commercial-

Eddie Guerrero walks in to the interview position where Josh Matthews is waiting for him. Seconds later, Chavo Guerrero arrives as well. The two men stare each other down before Chavo offers a hand to Eddie. They shake. Chavo then tells Josh that he and Uncle Eddie are ready to take it Nunzio and Booker T in the ring tonight!

Rob Van Dam vs Christian (w/ Tyson Tomko)

RVD and Christian lock up, but Christian rakes the eyes to break up the move. The ref gives him a warning but Christian is too busy scooping and slamming RVD. Christian goes for an elbow drop but RVD raises the knees and Christian rolls off in pain. RVD scores with a leg lariat which sends Christian down to the mat. RVD pops off the ropes, rolls, and scores with the Rolling Thunder! RVD covers but Tomko grabs Christian's foot and puts it over the ropes. RVD yells something at Tomko allowing Christian to come up from behind for a roll-up. RVD kicks out just before three. Christian locks a sleeper on to Van Dam. RVD powers up to his feet, where he elbows himself free of Christian. RVD goes to whip Christian away, but Christian reverses the move and sends RVD careening face first in to the turnbuckle. RVD staggers away from the corner dazed where he runs in to the ref. Thinking it to be Christian, he lands a quick suplex leaving the ref down and out. As the ref lands he realizes his mistake, and just has enough time to dodge an attack from Christian. The two start brawling, neither man noticing John Bradshaw Layfield running down to the ring. RVD scores with a kick to the side of Christian's head to send him staggering back. RVD turns, just in time to see the Clothesline from Hell! JBL slides out of the ring as Christian makes the cover and the ref comes too. Christian picks up the tainted victory.

Rating: 9/10

Thoughts: RVD and Christian seem made to wrestle one another as this match showed excellent work by both men. Even with the interference by JBL this match showed why both these men could be future stars in WWE. It should be interesting to see if either of these two will wrestle again once their individual fueds come to an end.

-Commercial-

Nunzio is backstage with Josh Matthews. He tells Matthews that he could defeat either Guerrero one on one, but tonight he had the best partner in the world to help him defeat both. He then introduces Booker T who reminds us that as a five time champion, he's more than a match for Los Guerreros.

Los Guerreros vs Booker T and Nunzio (w/ Dawn Marie)

Chavo Guerrero and Nunzio start the match out. The two size each other out before they start bouncing around the ring trading moves. Eventually, Chavo hits a dropkick to the jaw to take control. A vertical suplex by Chavo leads to a two count. Chavo tags in Eddie and Los Guerreros hit a double suplex. Eddie scores with a DDT but can only get a two count on Nunzio. Eddie goes for a vertical suplex, but Nunzio gouges the eys to break free and stagger to his corner. Nunzio tags in Booker T. Booker hits a clothesline on Eddie. He whips Eddie across the ring, than lands a back body drop. Cover but Eddie is out before three. Booker T goes for a running knee lift, but Eddie dives to the side and catches his other foot in a scissors for the take down. Eddie tries to lock on the Lasso from El Paso, but Booker scrambles for the ropes. Tag to Chavo Guerrero. Chavo scores with a drop toe hold on Booker and then hooks on a leg lock, but Booker quickly kicks his way free. Booker tags in Nunzio. Nunzio charges in but Chavo ducks his attack and than lands a flying neckbreaker on the cruiserweight champ. Chavo scores with a vertical suplex which just plants Nunzio on the mat. Chavo hooks on the Low Rider. Booker charges in but he runs headlong in to Eddie Guerrero just as Nunzio taps.

Rating: 9/10

Thoughts: Despite months apart, Los Guerreros haven't lost a step. The team proved to work together beautifully in their match with Booker T and Nunzio, and they didn't even have to cheat to pick up the victory.

Los Guerreros celebrate, but Eddie gets blindsided by Booker charging back in to the ring. Chavo runs to help his uncle, but Nunzio attacks him and he's soon joined by Chuck Palumbo. They double team Chavo as Booker T hits the Scissors Kick on Eddie Guerrero to end the show.

Final Thoughts: If No Mercy offers matches as good as tonight, it could easily be the best PPV of the year. Good fast paced action mixed with a good buildup for several fueds made this the best Smackdown of the year.

[mrhelm]

Friday, September 17, 2004

I sat down with the Undertaker today. He made it clear that he would only work face upon his return to television. Normally, I might be annoyed at his ultimatum-like tone, but my plans have drifted in pretty much the same direction. I'll probably have him enter a program with the Big Show leading in to Survivor Series if all goes as planned.

[mrhelm]

The Recap: Velocity (September 18, 2004)

Paul London vs Funaki

A quick win for Paul London in the opening bout as he soundly defeats Funaki with the London Calling. After the match, Billy Kidman would run in and save Funaki from a beat down at the hands of London.

Rating: ***

Jim Cornette comes out to the ring and says that after an exhaustive search he's found the future of Smackdown right here on Velocity. He introduces his new charges, The Basham Brothers, who come to the ring. He says they're ready to make an impact and they will tonight, as he's already signed them in a match with the Bombshells!

Backstage, Orlando Jordan and Torrie Wilson were together in a locker room. Torrie tells Orlando she's concerned about Dawn Marie and Chuck Palumbo and what they might have planned, but Orlando tells her not to worry about it, he'll take care of Palumbo.

Scotty 2 Hotty is walking backstage when he accidentally bumps in to Spike Dudley. Spike gets in to his face and tells Scotty to get down to the ring and to bring his partner, as they were in for an ass whipping.

Bubba Ray and Spike vs Moore Hott

Moore Hott pulled out all the stops in this match. Scotty 2 Hotty seemed to have the match well in hand when he landed the Worm on Spike Dudley. But before the three count can be made, D-Von Dudley charges in to the ring and he attacks Scotty. The Dudleys lay waist to Moore Hott as the ref calls for the DQ decision.

Rating: *** 1/4.

Orlando Jordan is walking backstage, holding a bouquet of flowers for Torrie when Chuck Palumbo comes out of nowhere with a chair. Palumbo takes Jordan out with the chair, leaving him in a crumpled heap on the ground.

The Basham Brothers vs the Bombshells

The Basham Brothers looked good with their new manager calling the shots in the ring. Despite Danny being all but killed by the combined efforts of Dupree and Jindrak, Doug Basham managed to come back and take control of the match. The Bashams would then hit the Double Damage on Dupree to pick up the three count and the win. But the Bombshells aren't finished, and they attack the Bashams. The two teams brawl all the way out of the arena.

Rating: *** 1/2

Kid Kash is backstage with Funaki. He cuts a promo against Billy Kidman, saying that he'd whip Kidman the same way he's whipped Ultimo Dragon in recent weeks.

Billy Kidman vs Kid Kash

Kid Kash would indeed prove victorious in this match, but not do to his own skill. Billy Kidman was in control of the matchup until Paul London charged the ring where his distraction allowed Kash to get a rollup for the win. London would then hit the London Calling on Kidman, leaving Billy Kidman down in the middle of the ring.

Rating: *** 1/2

Final Thoughts: A really good Velocity that seemed to actually get back in to developing storylines. Any doubt in my mind about the Bashams receiving a push came to an end with Jim Cornette joining them as their manager. The WWE seems ready to move the team up to major players in the revived tag ranks. The Jordan/Palumbo storyline continues ever forward with no end in sight, while we get more developments in the Kidman/London feud, which is a definite good thing. Overall, a very good Velocity, well worth the price of admission.

[mrhelm]

Monday, September 20, 2004

The preparations for No Mercy have come together this week and I personally think it will be the strongest Smackdown only PPV this year. Eddie Guerrero/Booker T, Chavo Guerrero/Nunzio, and Charlie Haas/Christian should be enough to please even the most hardcore wrestling fans.

[mrhelm]

Wednesday, September 22, 2004

Official Preview for September 23

Smackdown once again promises to put on another stellar show as Cruiserweight champion Nunzio teams with his Axis Powers ally and former WWE champion John Bradshaw Layfield to take on Chavo Guerrero and Rob Van Dam.

But that's not the only big tag team match for the night as Charlie Haas teams up with his former Team Angle leader Kurt Angle to take on Christian and Tyson Tomko. Will Christian's cheatings be able to fool the all American team?

Plus, a big number one contenders matchup between Los Luchadores Loco and the men who cost them the title last week: Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley! Who will earn the shot at Akio and Sakoda's tag titles at No Mercy?

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

[Guest ConcreteIsBack]

I'd just like to say, Im loving this! great that Akio and Sakoda are tag champs! and I really think you are using all the talent very well! And to top it all off with these great shows, you've got JBL with a nazi badge, I salute you !

[mrhelm]

The Royal Treatment: Smackdown (9.23.04)

Ultimo Dragon vs Paul London

Paul London rakes the eyes of Ultimo Dragon to take control from a lock-up. London scores with a dropkick, but Ultimo rebounds off of the ropes and scores with flying cross body. Dragon whips London across the ring. London rebounds, right in to a dropkick by Dragon. Dragon goes for the Asai DDT, but London drops out of the move, than scores with a vicious spinning kick. DDT by Paul London! London whips Ultimo Dragon in to the corner, where he commences pounding him with closed fists. London lands a hurracanrana and goes for the cover, but he only gets two. London goes for a dragon suplex, but Ultimo Dragon elbows his way free. Ultimo Dragon kicks London in the gut... Asai DDT! Kid Kash appears from under the ring, and he throws London's foot on to the ropes! The ref suspects something fishy and tells Kash to go to the back, but this gives time for London to get back to his feet. Dragon moves to whip London, but London reverses and sends Dragon right in to the ref. Kash slides in to the ring and lands the Money Maker on Ultimo Dragon. London goes to the top... London Calling. The ref awakens in time to count the three on Ultimo Dragon. Kid Kash slides back in to the ring, and he and London continue to put the boots to Dragon. Billy Kidman charges in to the ring, where he attacks London and Kash sending them out of the ring.

Rating: 7.5/10

Thoughts: A superb match between a cruiserweight legend and a future star. Kash's interference was in no way unexpected and it worked well to build up the feud between Dragon and he as it heads in to No Mercy.

-Commercial-

Kurt Angle is backstage with Funaki. He cuts a promo about Big Show, swearing to defeat the big oaf no matter what he and Vince McMahon threw at him.

We go to William Regal in his office with Billy Kidman. He tells Kidman that he has his match, and at No Mercy we will see Billy Kidman and Ultimo Dragon team against Paul London and Kid Kash.

-Commercial-

We see a recap of last week's show, when the Dudleys cost Juventud Guerrera and Nicho Millonario the tag team titles.

Los Luchadores Loco vs the Dudley Boyz

Juvi Guerrera and Bubba Ray start the match out. Juventud lands a hard kick right to the jaw of Bubba Ray. Juvi hits the ropes and springs off with a flying elbow. Juvi tags out to Nicho and the pair quickly land a double vertical suplex. Nicho covers, but Bubba Ray kicks out just befor three. Nicho scores with a dropkick on Bubba Ray. Bubba elbows his way out of a waistlock, than scores with a bodyslam. Tag to D-Von Dudley. D-Von with a running clothesline to Nicho. Sideslam by D-Von leads to a two count. Nicho blocks a suplex attempt by D-Von, than scores with a suplex of his own. Dropkick to D-Von by Nicho. Nicho tags in Juventud Guerrera just as D-Von tags in Bubba. Juvi comes in on fire and quickly takes down Bubba Ray. The two men start trading blows, just as Akio and Sakoda hit the ring! The ref calls for a no contest as a three way brawl quickly breaks out in the ring as we go to commercial.

Rating: 7.5/10

Thoughts: A pretty solid match, although it seems to be little more than setup for a three way tag match at No Mercy. Nonetheless, the Dudleys and Los Luchadores Loco work really well against each other and this proved to be another fine match.

-Commercial-

We return to the brawl, which is interrupted by William Regal, Smackdown's GM. Regal tells the six men to cease and desist immediately, than books them in a three way tag title match at No Mercy!

Christian and Tyson Tomko are backstage with Josh Matthews. Christian tells Josh that he plans on ripping Charlie Haas and Kurt Angle apart tonight, just like he'd rip Haas apart to win the US title at No Mercy!

Eddie Guerrero tells Chavo that he's going to the ring now, as he plans to call out Booker T.

-Commercial-

We return from break with Eddie coming out to the ring. He calls out Booker T, but instead of the real Booker, a midget dressed as Booker T emerges. Eddie cuts a series of insults towards Booker T as the midget does a spinnaroonie. The real Booker T charges in from the back, and the midget runs for cover as he begins to brawl with the WWE champion. The two men continue to fight until referees and road agents emerge to seperate them.

Vincent K. McMahon is backstage with Funaki. He tells Funaki that he in no way plans on interfering with Kurt Angle's match tonight and looks forward to a fine showing in the All American team of Kurt Angle and Charlie Haas vs Christian and Tyson Tomko. He also says that he insures that Big Show will in no way interfere with the contest and they both hope to see a fine display of sportsmanship tonight.

-Commercial-

Charlie Haas and Kurt Angle vs Christian and Tyson Tomko

Kurt Angle and Christian start the match out. Angle quickly gets a waistlock and hits a vicious looking snap suplex. Angle whips Christian hard in to his corner, and Tyson Tomko makes the blind tag in. Tomko goes for a clothesline, but Angle ducks the blow and lands a fireman's carry. Angle tags in Charlie Haas, who scores with a vertical suplex on Tomko. Tomko gouges Haas in the eyes to escape. Tomko tags in Christian. Christian ducks under a super kick by Haas, but Haas brings up the other leg in an Enzuigiri. Haas locks up Christian... Exploder Suplex! Haas covers for the three count and the win.

Rating: 6/10

Thoughts: This match bordered on being a squash, but it still proved to be rather interesting television. Haas and Angle make an amazing team.

Just as Charlie Haas goes to the back and Angle is still on the ramp, Vince McMahon emerges from the back and hits Angle from behind. He's joined by the Big Show who chokeslams Kurt Angle on the entrance ramp.They leave Angle out for the EMTs to help to the back, still unconsious.

-Commercial-

Nunzio and John Bradshaw Layfield stoo by with Josh Matthews, who had asked them their opinion of their main event match against Chavo Guerrero and Rob Vam. JBL just scoffed and said that a former WWE champ and a current Cruiserweight champ would make short work of those two examples of the worst of America and Mexico.

That match is up next!

-Commercial-

Chavo Guerrero and Rob Van Dam vs John Bradshaw Layfield and Nunzio

Chavo and JBL start the match out, and Chavo stuns JBL when he slaps him across the face. JBL takes a wing but Chavo ducks under and scores with a beautiful dropkick that sends JBL in to the ropes. Chavo tags out to RVD and RVD quickly whips JBL in to another dropkick by Chavo Guerrero. RVD scores with a Rolling Thunder which almost gets the three. RVD scores with a stiff high kick to JBL, but JBL hits a clothesline out of nowhere (as opposed to Hell) to take RVD down. JBL tags out to Nunzio. Nunzio goes to the top rope with amazing speed and scores with a flying punch from the top. Nunzio locks a figure four on to RVD, but Van Dam powers over, reversing the hold. Nunzio releases it, allowing RVD to make the tag to Chavo Guerrero. Clothesline by Chavo on Nunzio. Tornado DDT plants Nunzio, but JBL charges in to save his partner from the three count. Chavo whips Nunzio in to the far corner, but he manages to charge in to nothing but boot. He staggers back, but ducks the clothesline from Nunzio. He lifts Nunzio up and over the ropes and Nunzio goes tumbling to the outside. RVD and JBL hit the ring where they begin to brawl, while Chavo scores with a plancha on Nunzio. The ref is distracted by the brawl in the ring, allowing Chuck Palumbo to run in and score with the Jungle Kick on Chavo Guerrero. Nunzio rolls him in to the ring and lands the Arriverderci for the three count.

Rating: 7/10

Thoughts: A very solid match that builds to the two seperate matchs at No Mercy quite well. JBL and Nunzio come off looking good as dastardly villains, while Chavo and RVD both played the faces well in the match. Excellent stuff.

Chuck Palumbo joins his Axis Powers teammates Nunzio and JBL in the ring for a three and two beatdown. But Eddie Guerrero charges in to save his nephew and RVD. Together the three faces chase off the Axis Powers. But out of the crowd comes Booker T, steel chair in hand.; He attacks Eddie from behind with a brutal chair shot, which only serves to set up a Scissors Kick. RVD and Chavo rush to his aide, but they find themselves once again attacked by the Axis Powers. Booker lifts Eddie back up, then Bookends the champion on to the steel chair. Booker grabs the title belt and stands victorious as Smackdown comes to an end.

Final Thoughts: A beatdown by the #1 contender on the champion ends Smackdown with style. All around a good show with none of the matchs disappointing. The storylines continued forward nicely and we got some nice setups for several matches at No Mercy on October 3. Definite Thumbs Up.

[mrhelm]

Friday, September 24, 2004

No Mercy's card has been finalized barring any injuries or story problems next week. The plan is to finish a couple of the bigger feuds, while bringing back most of our injured roster as well as debuting a new star or two to Smackdown.

I really think this will be the best show I'll have put on since taking over Smackdown. With luck, this could be the best show of the year.

Edited September 29, 2004 by mrhelm

[mrhelm]

The Recap: Velocity

Akio and Sakoda vs Moore Hott

Once again, Moore Hott comes out looking good in this match against the tag team champions, but not quite good enough to take the win. Akio would pin Scotty 2 Hotty following a Hang Time.

The Rating: ***

Torrie Wilson and Orlando Jordan are backstage. Torrie is concerned that Orlando could get hurt by Chuck Palumbo and his allies in his match tonight. Orlando reassures her that he'll be all right.

Jim Cornette and Theodorle Long run in to one another over the coffee machine. The two quickly argue about who has the better charges, Cornette's Bashams or Long's Bombshells. They agree to put the two sides in a rematch to see which team is superior.

Rico vs Luther Reigns

Rico seemed to have this match won, but Luther hits a low blow behind the ref's back to set up the Reign Fall and the three count victory. After the match, Rico sends Luther to the match with a brutal roundhouse kick.

The Rating: * 3/4

Kid Kash is backstage talking to Paul London. He told London that he would rip apart Ultimo Dragon in their tag match at No Mercy.

Orlando Jordan vs Chuck Palumbo

Orlando Jordan and Chuck Palumbo crashed in to one another again with this big match-up tonight. Palumbo took control early, but Orlando would not give in for anything. Orlando would hit a trifecta of suplexes to pick up the three count victory.

The Rating: ** 1/4

Charlie Haas arrives to commiserate with Rico about his loss to Luther Reigns. The two men quickly start talking about Christian and Tyson Tomko and about how badly Charlie would beat Christian at No Mercy. They part ways as Rico and Miss Jackie have plans for the evening at a local bar, one that Charlie doesn't really want to visit. But as Charlie steps down the hallway, he finds himself clotheslined by Tyson Tomko. Christian joins in and the two men stomp Charlie Haas in to the floor.

The Basham Brothers vs the Bombshells

Jindrak takes control over Danny Basham early in the match, but Doug comes in on fire to destroy both Jindrak and Dupree. But in all comes down to interference by Theodore Long who distracts the referee long enough for Mark Jindrak to score with a low blow that leads to the Mark of Perfection for the three count. Danny Basham rushes the ring and the Bashams quickly send Jindrak and Dupree in to retreat as Smackdown comes to an end.

The Rating: *** 3/4

Final Thoughts: Solid if not overly eventful Velocity. The main event was good as both teams showed what it means to be a strong tag teams. If their Velocity matches are any indication, either the Bashams or the Bombshells are ready for their shots at tag team gold.

[mrhelm]

The Royal Treatment: Smackdown (9.30.04)

Billy Kidman vs Kid Kash

Kidman hits a couple of quick punches to Kid Kash. Kick to the gut of Kash leads right in to a snap suplex. Kidman drops a leg across the back of the head of Kid Kash. Cover but Kash throws a foot over the ropes to stay alive. Kidman goes for a rear chinlock but Kash elbows his way free. Roundhouse kick connects to Kidman's chest and Billy goes down. Kash to the top, but Kidman rolls out of the way of the leg drop. Dropkick by Kidman and Kash goes down. Pin, but Kash gets out just before the three. Kash reverses a waistlock and scores with a rear suplex on Billy Kidman. Kidman elbows his way free from another waistlock and Kash stumbles in to the referee. The ref goes down and Kash immediately goes for the low blow! Kash goes for the Money Maker on the stunned Kidman, but Ultimo Dragon charges to the ring and attacks Kash. Asai DDT! Dragon slides out of the ring as Kidman climbs the corner rope. Shooting Star Press! 1... 2... 3... and it's all over.

Rating: 7/10

Thoughts: Could have been a bit longer but Kidman and Kash make for a really good opening matchup. The tag match on Sunday should prove to be well worth the price of admission.

Kidman celebrates in the ring with Ultimo Dragon when, from out of the crowd, Paul London attacks. London and Kidman begin to brawl just as Kid Kash attacks Ultimo Dragon from behind. Kid Kash hits the Money Maker on Dragon as Kidman is thrown over the top rope. London goes to the top and hits the London Calling on Ultimo Dragon!

-Commercial-

Funaki is backstage with Christian as we return. Christian shows footage of his attack on Charlie Haas on Velocity. He than tells the crowd that that is what happens to people who mess with the greatest wrestler on Smackdown today... Christian!

Chavo Guerrero and Orlando Jordan (w/ Torrie Wilson) vs Nunzio and Palumbo (w/ Dawn Marie)

Chavo and Chuck Palumbo start the match out. Chavo scores with a dropkick on Palumbo. Chavo hits the ropes and scores with a cross body that leads to a two count. Chavo tags out to Orlando Jordan. Jordan snap suplexes Chuck Palumbo hard to the mat. He quickly scores with another, but Chuck powers out of the third. Clothesline by Palumbo. Palumbo tags to Nunzio. Nunzio comes off the top with a missile dropkick which gets him a two count on Jordan. Flying head scissors sends Jordan stumbling around the ring and right in to a dropkick by Nunzio. Cover, but Jordan kicks out. Nunzio goes for a suplex, but Jordan blocks it, than lands a suplex of his own. Orlando Jordan tags out to Chavo Guerrero. Chavo scores with a roundhouse on Nunzio. Chavo scores with a vertical suplex. He climbs to the top rope for a frog splash, but John Bradshaw Layfield comes running in from the back. Chavo gets shoves by JBL. Nunzio immediately moves in... Arriverderci! Nunzio gets the three count for the win.

Rating: 6/10

Thoughts: Chavo and Orlando Jordan proved to work surprisingly well together, but this match found itself marred by interference by JBL. The Axis Powers continue to stick together, and it will be interesting to see how that alliance will play out at No Mercy.

The Axis Powers move in for the three on two, but Rob Van Dam charges in to the ring. JBL, Nunzio, and Palumbo quickly hightail it now that the odds are out of their favor.

-Commercial-

We come back from the commercial backstage, where Orlando Jordan, Torrie Wilson, and Chavo Guerrero are thanking RVD for the save from JBL. Everyone but Rob Van Dam leaves, and as soon as he begins to unlace his boots, John Bradshaw Layfield attacks from behind. JBL pummels RVD in to the floor before whipping him in to a set of lockers and leaving him unconscious in the backstage area.

Paul London is standing by elsewhere with Josh Matthews. Matthews askes London why he bears such hatred for his former tag partner Billy Kidman, but London cuts him off and just says that Kidman's a weak link and to get anywhere in WWE you have to learn to look at the bigger picture. And as far as he was concerned the bigger picture was none other than Paul London. He planned on showing that by whipping Billy Kidman from one post to another before landing the London Calling for the victory at No Mercy.

-Commercial-

We get a rewind of the last few weeks of Los Luchadores Loco and their quest for the gold. Now they face not only the tag champions at No Mercy, but also the Dudley Boyz. But tonight we get a triple threat SINGLES match from three of the competitors on Sunday night.

Nicho Millonario vs Sakoda vs Bubba Ray Dudley

Bubba Ray comes out strong in the early goings of the match, sending Sakoda over the top rope and laying in to Nicho Millonario with a series of punches. Nicho comes back with a back kick that sends Bubba stumbling in to the ropes. Nicho hits a suplex that plants Bubba on the mat. Sakoda charges back in and hits a clothesline on Nicho. Bubba Ray comes back to his feet and scores with a DDT on Sakoda. But Nicho isn't down either, and he scores with a flying punch from the top on Bubba. Nicho covers, but Bubba kicks out at two. Sakoda hits a rear suplex on Nicho. Sakoda lands a tiger bomb! But Bubba whips him around just as D-Von hits the ring. 3-D! Bubba hooks the leg for the three count and the win.

Rating: 6/10

Thoughts: Good, but not great. Solid but short ring work that gives a short preview of their No Mercy match.

-Commercial-

Booker T cuts a quick promo about how much pain he plans to cause Eddie Guerrero before he takes the WWE title at No Mercy.

Nunzio is backstage when Chavo Guerrero comes out of nowhere. The two men brawl for a few moments, before Nunzio makes a break for it, and Chavo chases him in to the street.

Rico and Charlie Haas vs Christian and Tyson Tomko

Charlie Haas hits a pair of hard chops across the chest of Christian. Neckbreaker by Charlie Haas plants Christian. Haas tags in Rico and the pair hit a double clothesline. Rico covers but Christian is up just after two. Rico goes to the second rope and scores with a flying kick. Rico goes for a sleeper but Christian scores with a jawbreaker to escape. Christian scores with a clothesline, than quickly makes the tag to Tyson Tomko. Tomko hits a piledriver on Rico, but Rico comes out just before the three count. Running clothesline drops Rico again. Tomko whips Rico in to the corner. He charges in but eats boot. Hard back suplex on Tomko and both men are down. Tomko tags in Christian, just as Rico tags in Charlie Haas. Charlie Haas hits a rolling kick on Christian, than sends Tomko sailing over the top rope. Christian tries to attack from behind, but Haas blocks it than lands a kick to the gut. Exploder Suplex! 1... 2... 3... it's all over; Haas pinned Christian.

Rating: 7/10

Thoughts: Solid match-up. Tomko seems to be improving by leaps and bounds, although he's still a weak spot on the Smackdown roster. If this match is any indication, Charlie Haas/Christian for the US title should prove to be a strong point of the No Mercy card.

-Commercial-

We get a recap of Kurt Angle's feud with the Big Show and Vince McMahon over the last several weeks.

Josh Matthews is backstage with Eddie Guerrero and Kurt Angle. The two men say they've had decided differences in the past, but tonight they plan on teaming up with one goal in mind, taking down Booker T and Big Show.

Michael Cole and Mike Sanders run down the line-up for No Mercy:

Christian vs Charlie Haas for the US title.

Billy Kidman and Ultimo Dragon vs Paul London and Kid Kash.

Chavo Guerrero vs Nunzio in a submission match for the Cruiserweight title.

Rob Van Dam vs John Bradshaw Layfield

Triple threat tag team match for the Tag titles

Kurt Angle vs the Big Show (now with special referee Vince McMahon)

Eddie Guerrero vs Booker T for the WWE title.

-Commercial-

Eddie Guerrero and Kurt Angle vs Booker T and Big Show

Eddie Guerrero and the Big Show start the match out. Eddie keeps moving in the ring, landing ineffectual punches on the Big Show. Dropkick to the knee staggers Show. Eddie springs to the top rope and scores with a missile dropkick. Tag between Eddie and Kurt Angle. Kurt charges in with a clothesline, just as Eddie hooks a drop toe hold on the Big Show, and their combined efforts take the giant down. Angle covers, but Show kicks out with authority. Kurt goes for the Angle Slam, but Show manages to keep his feet on the mat. Show with a brutal hand across the chest of Kurt Angle. Backbreaker by Big Show leaves Kurt out on the mat. Cover gets a two, and Show moves to tag in Booker T. Booker hits a running knee on Kurt Angle. Bookend! Cover, but Kurt throws a foot over the bottom rope to break the count. Kurt Angle reverses a suplex in to one of his own, than stumbles to his corner to tag in Eddie Guerrero. Eddie lands a dropkick on Booker taking Book down. Eddie whips Booker to the corner, but Booker dives out of the corner as Eddie charges in. Eddie flips over the top rope to avoid the collission, than immediately hops to the top. But Booker T's ready for him, and yanks the ropes to cause Eddie to rack himself on the turnbuckle. Booker flips Eddie down off the top rope. Scissors Kick. A three count brings the match to an end, as Booker T stands victorious.

Rating: 6.5/10

Thoughts: A very good match with the talents of the other three workers making up for any deficiencies by the Big Show. All four competitors come out looking solid heading in to their big matches on Sunday night.

Kurt Angle charges in to the ring to help Eddie, but he gets caught by the Big Show. Show goes for the Chokeslam, but Angle slides out and lands the Angle Slam. He hooks on the anklelock until Vince McMahon charges in to the ring and takes him out with a steel chair. Vince raises Big Show's hand in victory as Smackdown comes to a close.

Final Thoughts: A solid show that builds up to the PPV quite nicely. Good efforts by all the worker made for above average matches that make the PPV matches look like they might really shine. We'll have to wait to October 3 to find out for sure.

[mrhelm]

The Recap: Velocity (Oct 2, 2004)

Jamie Noble vs Shannon Moore

Shannon Moore fought valiantly in his battle with Jamie Noble, but Noble used dirty tactics to secure his victory, including several eye gouges and a pin that involved his feet on the rope.

Rating: *** 1/4

Jim Cornette is backstage with Danny Basham. He tells Danny that tonight is a very important matchup, and that he needed to put on the performance of his career. Danny says he'll do it.

Ultimo Dragon vs Luther Reigns

Luther Reigns pummeled Ultimo Dragon in to the mat for most of this match, but a last second comeback by Dragon secured Luther's fate. Ultimo Dragon would land the Asai DDT to pick up the win over the big man.

Rating: **

Post match, Kid Kash hits the ring and attacks Ultimo Dragon. He eventually hits the Money Maker and leaves Dragon to be helped out of the ring.

Paul Heyman and D-Von Dudley talked to Funaki about D-Von's match tonight. Heyman told Funaki that D-Von was out there to compete tonight, but at No Mercy he would take every action in his power to secure a win in the triple threat tag match.

Jim Cornette is seen in the locker room with Doug Basham. Cornette says he has a plan for the Basham's futures if they can only pick up the win tonight. Doug says that they'll get it done.

The Basham Brothers vs The Bombshells

The Bombshells controlled Danny Basham for most of the match, but a hot tag to Doug Basham brought in the fresh man and a change of luck. Doug would destroy Jindrak in the ring with a Northern Lights bomb, but it would only serve to set him up for the Double Damage and the win.

Rating: *** 1/2

The Bashams are seen celebrating backstage with Jim Cornette after the match.

Kid Kash is backstage with Funaki. He says he gave Ultimo Dragon a taste of what he would receive at No Mercy.

Juventud Guerrera vs Akio vs D-Von Dudley

This match went quite similarly to the triple threat match on Smackdown. Juventud Guerrera seemed to have the win secured over Akio, but a run-in by Sakoda and his Roaring Elbow allowed Akio to steal the three count and the victory.

Rating: *** 3/4

Final Thoughts: Overall, a decent Velocity. The Bashams seem ready to move to Smackdown in upcoming weeks after some fine performances and the addition of Cornette as their manager. The main event proved better than its fellow match on Smackdown, most likely do to the presence of the superior Akio over Sakoda. It did little to hype the match at No Mercy though.

[TGC]

Closed and moved to Archives.