Get The 'F' Back in

[DaveKOTW]

THE NUMBER ONE CONTENDER

RAW - March 11, 2002

WWF RAW promised to be a spectacular night of Sports Entertainment and it certainly looked like fulfilling its promise as the man who ended the Undertaker’s undefeated streak, the WWF Champion, The Rock made his way to the ring and he certainly looked proud of himself. The Rock grabbed hold of a mic and reminded the fans (in case they forgot) that FINALLY The Rock had come back to the Air Canada Centre here in Toronto. Despite an enormous amount of boos from the crowd The Rock said that at WrestleMania, he proved to the world that he was, without a shadow of a doubt, the very best this business had to offer. The Rock reminded the fans that prior to their match last night, The Undertaker had went nine years, nine long years without a loss at WrestleMania and that last night, The Rock simply brushed the Deadman aside like the bitch that he….

“Rollin” by Limp Bizkit blasted out of the PA system to the delight of the fans and The Undertaker made his down to the ring interrupting the WWF Champion’s ego-fest. The Undertaker quickly grabbed hold of a mic before getting into the ring going toe to toe with the man that beat him less than 24 hours ago. The Undertaker told The Rock that no matter what happened last night at WrestleMania, one thing still remains true and that is that when The Rock comes down that ramp and gets into this ring, The Rock is stepping into The Undertaker’s yard. The Deadman reminded The Rock that he’s been around in this business for a long time and during his tether with this company, he’s been told a lot of things. Taker said that some people call him brave while others call him foolish but The Undertaker said that he’s never backed down from anyone and right now, he wants another shot at that WWF Championship and the crowd go wild. The Rock was evidently unhappy about The Undertaker’s challenge for the title but just as he was about to respond to the Dead man’s challenge, he was interrupted again by…..

….Paul Heyman and Kane who also wanted to have their say! JR reminds the fans that last night at WrestleMania, Kane defeated Stone Cold Steve Austin in a brutal Last Man Standing Match. Heyman and Kane quickly made their way down to the ring joining The Undertaker and The Rock in the ring, neither man particularly happy to see the Big Red Monster in the ring with them. The Rock asked Heyman if he and Kane had got lost because neither he nor The Undertaker has any good on them. The Rock then tried to recommend Heyman a fast food joint in town but Heyman quickly cut in and halted any further insult. Heyman said that the reason he had come down to the ring was to make sure that his hearing wasn’t deceiving him because he could have sworn he just heard The Undertaker demand a rematch for the WWF Championship. Heyman demanded an explanation from The Rock because he believed that if ANYONE was to be the number on contender, then it would be the man who, at WrestleMania, demolished the legacy of Stone Cold Steve Austin, the Big Red Monster Kane!

The Rock stood in front of both challengers and looked at back and forth at both competitors as if trying to sum up which of the two would be the better opponent. After some deliberation The Rock slowly moved his mic back with both of his challengers looking ready to go there and then. The Rock said that he admires guts and that both The Undertaker and Kane have shown a lot of guts coming to the ring to challenge him. The Rock also said that The Rock, as the People’s Champion, knows what fans want and The Rock vs. The Undertaker II or The Rock vs. Kane would certainly be big money matches and that he would have no problem fighting either one of them….just not tonight. However….The Rock did have a solution. The Rock said that since both The Undertaker and Kane were desperate to have matches and he was unable to compete because of minor “injuries”, The Rock said that tonight, The Undertaker and Kane can go one on one against each other and whoever wins the match will be granted a shot at his WWF Title. A furious Undertaker grabbed old of The Rock by the throat to a huge pop from the crowd and went for the chokeslam but Kane attacked him from behind causing Taker to release The Rock! As the WWF Champ escaped the ring to the outside, Kane grabbed hold of The Undertaker by the throat and connected with the chokeslam. JR believed that The Rock just dodged a bullet and was lucky to escape that unscathed while Foley felt that whoever The Rock who defend the title against, he would be in serious trouble!

We returned from a short commercial break with the New WWF European Champion William Regal who was making his way to the ring for his first title defence against the “Innovator of Violence” Tommy Dreamer. Jim Ross and Mick Foley both commented on Dreamer’s ECW history, his broken neck and both felt that Dreamer looked in excellent shape here tonight on his return to the squared circle. Dreamer looked like he had a point to prove right through this match up and took it to Regal in the early goings nearly scoring the pin fall following his Dreamer Cutter. Dreamer kept on top of the European Champion and looked to finish him off with the Spicoli Driver but Regal countered and took Dreamer down with a forearm to the back of the head. Regal unleashed his arsenal of suplexes on the Innovator of Violence trying to wear the ECW alumnus down but Dreamer refused to give up kicking out of pin fall attempts on at least three occasions. Regal got frustrated and seemed to feel that it was the referee’s fault that the match wasn’t over. Regal went to the outside and grabbed hold of his title belt and looked like he was going to use it on Dreamer but the referee snatched it away in attempt to keep the match clean. Regal however still had the brass knucks and with the referee out of the way, Regal knocked the lights out of his opponent and stole the win to retain his European Title! Can anyone stop Regal with those brass knucks?

We cut off backstage to see The Hardy Boyz talking about not being part of a WrestleMania in the Men’s Locker Room when two men come into shot with their luggage cutting short their conversation. Matt asks the two guys who they are and the taller of the two quickly identifies the Hardy Boyz. He says his name is Randy Orton and the man standing next to him is Donovan Clark and in case the Hardyz hadn’t heard of them and they were wondering, Clark and Orton are the Future of Tag Team Wrestling. Matt and Jeff however were less then impressed and Matt challenged them to a match later tonight to see if their talent was as remarkable as their egos - Orton accepted. Oh it’s On People!

Further backstage, a dejected Vince McMahon looks at himself in the mirror while DDP, Ron Waterman and X-Pac talk between themselves. Vince said that he couldn’t believe the World Wrestling Federation, his Father’s creation, the company that he has put his life into threatens to be destroyed, split in two by the egomaniacal Jerry Lawler. Vince turns to his henchmen and asks them where they were last night! Vince said he told them to watch his back…that’s what he pays them for! All three try to defend themselves but Vince cuts them off. Vince said that the only way he’s going to deal with this situation is by trying to talk sense into Lawler and that he’s going to go do that now! Vince McMahon is on his way to the ring?

We returned from a commercial break to find Vince McMahon in the middle of the ring, mic in hand. Vince said that last night at WrestleMania…a travesty occurred. Vince said that last night the future of the WWF was stolen and it was stolen by a man that threatens to destroy everything that he has created and that man is Jerry The King Lawler. Vince said that he appreciates now that there isn’t much he can do but before The King makes any rash decisions, he would like him to come out to the ring and a conversation with him face to face.

The King’s music blasts out of the PA system and Jerry Lawler comes out to a huge pop from the fans here in Toronto Canada. Lawler grabs hold of a mic and gets right to the point and wanted to know just exactly what Vince had to say to him? Vince said that last night, the two of them put on one hell of a match and that Vince said that despite all of their differences, while Vince said that he may night like Lawler, Vince said that he did respect him, although the crowd didn’t quite believe it. Vince said that he also knows that Jerry Lawler is a smart man; a man that wouldn’t make rash decisions Vince said that splitting the WWF roster would be a very rash decision. Lawler seemed to ponder Vince’s comments for a second but just as he was about to respond, Vince pulled a check book from out of his pocket. Vince told Lawler that with this in mind, Vince said that that Jerry, as a man who loves the business, should make the right decision and that would be to sell his share of the business back over to Vince and he told Lawler to simply name his price.

Lawler was infuriated by Vince McMahon’s nerves and he let him know straight out. Lawler said that having known Vince for a hell of a long time, he thought he’d never be surprised by Vince’s nerve but Vince had once again out done himself. Lawler said that prior to Vince’s antics, Lawler said that he admittedly questioned his decision to have a roster split but seeing Vince’s actions for what they really are, Lawler promised that Vince had “No Chance in Hell” of changing his mind and the crowd went wild! Vince has blown it! Vince pleaded with Lawler to change his mind and even got on his knees begging him but Lawler didn’t give a damn! Lawler pushed Vince to the ground. Lawler said that remains now is to introduce to you the man who helped Jerry Lawler win that match at WrestleMania and one of the main players in the WWF Draft that will take place next week on RAW, Y2J CHRIS JERICHO! The crowd went ballistic as Jericho’s pyros exploded in the area and Jericho appeared at the top of the ramp way posing for the crowd. Lawler left the ring and met up with Jericho at the top of the ramp way leaving a sickened Vince McMahon still on his knees staring at the two men that have “damaged” his company. It looks like the brand split is taking place Next Monday Night on RAW! What a huge night that will be!

We return from a commercial break to Matt and Jeff Hardy who were standing in the ring. Randy Orton and Donovan Clark came out to the ring to some generic WWF music and looked surprisingly arrogant considering the fact that they are making their WWF debut. Clark and Matt Hardy started off the match and neither man was able to take advantage. Clark tagged in Orton and Orton went to work on Matt scoring a beautiful standing drop kick in the process. Orton brought Clark back into the ring and the two men double teamed mat and so nearly won the match following a double suplex but Jeff broke up the pin just in time. Jeff took Orton out of the game sending him to the outside of the ring with a big clothesline and followed up with the suicide dive leaving Clark and Matt alone in the ring. Clark brought Orton back to his feet and looked for a Fisherman’s Suplex but Matt countered and connected with the Twist of Fate. Matt went up top to finish the match off with a diving leg drop but Orton, who had already taken care of Jeff with the steel steps took care of Matt dropping him neck first onto the ropes. Clark finished the job hitting Matt with a Swinging Reverse DDT to pick up win Clark and Orton shocking everyone by picking up a huge win in their debut match!

We cut backstage to see Shawn Michaels who is talking with Jonathan Coachman. Michaels said that he was a little ticked off because of everything that went down last night at WrestleMania. Michaels said that for a long time, he had been wondering! Could he return to Wrestling? Would the Show Stopper ever Grace the Squared Circle again? HBK said that for a long time, he felt the answer to that question was no BUT then, after all the doubt, all the waiting, his friend, Triple H, came to him and he said “Shawn, it’s time to pick yourself up again and get back into that ring” and last night he did. But things don’t often work out as planned and just when HBK thought DX was back for its second run, Triple H gets taken out of the game with a bad neck injury and looks like he’s going to be out for a heck of a long time and it looks like DX is regrettably over, cut down its prime. So does this mean HBK is going to step back into retirement? HELL NO! HBK said that as far he was concerned, he was going nowhere and he wants a match, this Thursday on Smackdown against both of the Dudley Boyz in a handicap match. Is Michaels Crazy?

After a commercial break, we are treated to our first WrestleMania Rematch between the WWF Intercontinental Champion Shawn Stasiak and Mr Perfect. JR said that last night at Mania, Mr Perfect put up one hell of a fight against the Intercontinental Champion and was unlucky to lose the match, an opinion echoed by Mick Foley. Foley believed however that Stasiak was one sly customer who evidently had a lot of in ring smarts and used them to perfection at Mania. Both men exchanged hard shots and suplexes not uncommon in this match with both men trying to improve on their Mania Match Up. Stasiak set up Perfect for the reverse DDT but Perfect countered the move only to get hit with his very own Perfect-Plex, Stasiak nearly taking the three with that move! Stasiak set Mr Perfect for the Death Valley Driver to end the match right there and then but Perfect managed to counter the move accidentally sending Stasiak into the referee in the process. Mr Perfect planted a disorientated Stasiak with the Perfect-Plex but there was no referee! Perfect broke the pin attempt and went to the aid of referee consequently not spotting RAVEN come through the crowd. Raven slid into the ring and planted Mr Perfect with the Raven Effect before ditching the ring allowing Stasiak to make the cover and pick up the three! Why the hell is Raven here?

Up next was more singles action pitting Hugh Morrus, accompanied by the WWF Women’s Champion Daffney Unger against Bradshaw. Hugh Morrus had played a huge role last night in Daffney Unger’s Title Match against Trish Stratus his attack effectively costing Trish the Women’s Title. As Bradshaw and Morrus got under way, JR was quick to mention that Hugh Morrus sickened him for his actions last night at WrestleMania and he didn’t know how any man could lay their hands on a woman. Mick agreed with JR but told him to look at it from Hugh’s point of view…after all, you can be sure he hasn’t got his hands on many women in his life time…look at Daffney! Morrus and Bradshaw exchanged fierce punches in this match up with Morrus and Bradshaw both showing their large arsenal of slams in the process. Morrus went up top looking looking for a double axehandle shot but Bradshaw saw the danger and forced him to land in a precarious position. Bradshaw then planted Morrus with a huge fallaway slam from the top rope taking complete control of the match in the process. Bradshaw signalled for the clothesline from hell causing Daffney Unger to climb onto the apron in an attempt to cause a distraction. But as soon as Daffney shouted at the referee,Trish Stratus came to the rescue taking Unger off the apron and scuffle commenced on the outside. Morrus tried to take advantage of the distraction and failed to connect with the clothesline but Bradshaw didn’t connecting with the clothesline from hell and taking the match thanks to an unlikely assist from the former Women’s Champion. It looks like Trish and Daffney is far from over!

We cut backstage to see Kane and Heyman making their way to the ring as is The Undertaker. Kane vs. The Undertaker is NEXT!

When we returned from the final commercial break of the night, it was time for the Main Event Match and this bout is for a shot at the WWF title. Before the competitors came down to the ring, the announce team was joined by none other than the WWF Champion The Rock who looked much less jovial then earlier in the night, his mood obviously affected by the challenges for his title. Nevertheless, as Kane and The Undertaker made their entrances, JR and Mick Foley speculated on which of these too behemoths would win the match and take on The Rock, the Champ insisting he didn’t care who it was! JR assured us that this match would indeed be a slobberknocker! Neither competitor needed to be pushed to kick this match off and both men exchanged stiff hard shots in the early goings each punch easily knocking out a lesser man. Control was exchanged often with The Undertaker one moment beating Kane senseless in the corner of the ring to a minute later Kane dropping The Undertaker to the ground with a big a boot to the face. As the match grew on, Kane started to take a more dominant role planting The Undertaker with a sidewalk slam before connecting with his trademark flying clothesline, Heyman literally dancing on the outside at the dominance from the Big Red Monster. Kane went for the chokeslam but The Undertaker quickly countered and sent Kane and himself to the outside where the two of them continued to trade punches. When the two competitors came over to the announce table area, The WWF Champ became very vocal mouthing off to both competitors but neither paid much attention and continued to focus at the job in hand. The Rock however was destined to play a role in this match and did so after Kane countered an Irish Whip attempt by The Undertaker sending The Dead Man up and over the announce table right into the announces and the Champ knocking him down. The Undertaker and Kane took the match back to the ring where they continued the fight exchanging more blows to the head. After about 5 shots each, Kane’s looked to have finally done enough damage with The Undertaker swaying but Kane missed the clothesline follow up and The Undertaker somehow managed to connect with a chokeslam, Heyman squealing like a pig. In the background there was some commotion and within the blink of an eye, The Rock appeared in the ring attacking The Undertaker from behind with a steel chair causing the match to end by disqualification but The Rock didn’t care – he looked smug. But The Rock’s smile was soon wiped of his face as he realised what stood behind him. The Rock slowly turned around praying it wasn’t who he thought it was but it was and by God Kane was mad and he chokeslammed The Rock straight to hell! Kane stood tall in the ring staring down at the lifeless bodies of The Rock and The Undertaker setting off his pyros as the show came to a close. Who is the Number #1 Contender?

QUICK RESULTS

William Regal def. Tommy Dreamer to retain the WWF European Championship

Randy Orton and Donovan Clark def. The Hardy Boyz

Shawn Stasiak def. Mr Perfect to retain the WWF Intercontinental Championship

Bradshaw def. Hugh Morrus

The Undertaker def. Kane by DQ

Edited April 6, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[DaveKOTW]

WALKING ON EGG SHELLS

Smackdown Preview - March 14, 2002

Tonight the World Wrestling Federation rolls into Charlotte, North Carolina just four days removed from WrestleMania.

Smackdown! will open tonight with Co-Owner Jerry The King Lawler making a special announcement to all of the WWF Fans and WWF Superstars regarding the WWF Roster Split that is expected to commence next Monday Night on RAW. You can be sure with the Roster split closing in, everyone in the back will definately be interested in what Lawler has to say here tonight.

For the WWF Champion The Rock, the draft will not be the only thing on his mind as The WWF Champion has become a marked man since he defeated The Undertaker at Wrestlemania four nights ago. Earlier this week on RAW, The Undertaker demanded that the WWF Champion but his title on the line one more time but Taker was not the only man interested in the WWF Gold. Kane, the man who destroyed Stone Cold at WrestleMania in a brutal Last Man Standing Match, also has his eyes firmly fixed on the WWF title. To resolve this conflict, a Number One Contenders Match was made to determine who would challenge The Rock for the WWF Title but the match did not resolve any problems as The Rock got involved in the Match Up, attacking The Undertaker from behind before being chokeslammed to hell by the Big Red Machine Kane. Tonight, The Rock will take on Kane in a Non-Title Match in the Smackdown Main Event and you can be damn sure The Undertaker will be keeping a close eye on these events.

Shawn Michaels will also be in action tonight as he takes on the Dudley Boyz in a handicap match by his own request. Earlier in the week, Shawn Michaels made it perfectly clear that while DX may be over, The Heart Break Kid is still alive and well and that he ain't going anywhere for a hell of a long time. Folks this is one match that you should simply not miss!

Smackdown will also host a match between Rob Van Dam and Raven, who last Monday Night, ran in on the WrestleMania Mania Intercontinental Title Rematch between Shawn Stasiak and Mr Perfect costing Perfect the title. Will Raven explain his actions on Smackdown? Tune in to find out!

Edited April 6, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[ClaRK! Kent]

Okay. Seeing as I've been outta the loop on your diary for a while, I'm gonna try to get back into it post-Mania, so having skimmed over WMX8, I'm gonna just read Raw and try to get back into this one, perhaps.

Feedback time...

- The recap style is probably the best way to go. Without wishing to be unkind, I felt you suffered from trying to do extensive PBP in the period I was reading, and this style hides your weaknesses whilst accentuating the strengths, ie: a lot of your booking.

- Good opening segment. The Rock is a good man to start with, as he just bitchslapped Taker, and here comes Undertaker to... do something. I dunno. What would he do after losing at Mania? Well, according to you he'll just go for business as usual. It's his yard, you know. Anyway, here's Kane and Heyman and they're all happy for beating Austin. We have a number one contender's match for the main event, and Rocky plays heel by running away and stuff. Is he actually the heel here? I dunno.

- Regal beats Dreamer with the knux. You're having the belt defended, so I assume you've built it up to mean something. Yay for you, the European title is criminally underused.

- I have no idea who Donovan Clark is, but Randy is all good. They challenge Matt and Jeff, and I assume you'll be jobbing Team Xtreme out pretty solidly now, 'cos you weren't building them up to be worth a damn, and skimming over the past page or so, it doesn't seem like much has changed.

- Vince is all mad and stuff 'cos he lost, and his henchmen are guilty. Man, I hope he fires them soon, because frankly none of them do anything for me whatsoever. But he's off to the ring, anyway...

- Vince and Lawler don't like each other, Lawler is a babyface so clearly this is bizarro-world, and they're splitting the brands next week. Nice to see you 'touching base' with reality here.

- As I expected, the n00bs beat Team Xtreme in a fairly blah match. Fairy 'nuff.

- HBK is all sad 'cos Trips is out, making him the only man in Canada who is at this point. Anyhow, he wants the Dudleyz in a handicap match, because apparently he doesn't enjoy his working spine or something.

- Stasiak? Perfect? IC title match?!?! Where's Russo hiding?! Ahem. Anyway, Stasiak wins, and current meteorological reports suggest the temperature in Hell is "quite bracing" right now. Here comes Raven to add some credibility to the segment (who'da thunk it?) and beat up Perfect. I'm struggling to care, sadly, although that might be me missing out on stuff.

- Bradshaw beats Morrus, and apparently they've pissed people off backstage, because this is just a backdrop to the continuing saga of the Women's title. Sheesh. Nice to see the belt on Daffney, anyhow. Just drop her silly, silly surname.

- Backstage, Kane is WALKING~!

- Rock is on commentary, so you know he's interfering. Good match write-up, it felt like the only one you actually enjoyed writing. Rocky interferes, a DQ, and everybody is very confused about who is the number one contender. I smell a 3-way.

OVERALL - Not a bad show, but a little weak for post-Mania perhaps. I know you're hyping up a brand split, but a LOT of guys got left out here. No Kurt? Barely any Jericho? No Key, the man you've been hyping as your impact player? You left these guys off the card for Hugh Morrus and Shawn Stasiak? Yikes.

You've improved a lot since I was last a regular reader, and this format of results can only help you, but apparently the booking has suffered a little. If you can get your booking back on form, you'll have a very good diary here. *** for the show.

[Thatz]

-I was going to leave something for RAW, but I decided that your WrestleMania didn't get as much feedback as a big event should, so here I go with WM thoughts instead...

-Your choice for the opening match seemed a bit strange to me. It wasn't exactly an excellent match, I think that there were other options on your card that would've been more effective in this role. The only thing that would've saved this would have been Perfect winning the belt, and that didn't happen. Thumbs down on this match, it just didn't click. The belt needs to leave Stasiak soon.

-As a match, there wasn't really anything wrong with the Hardcore Title match. It would have certainly been entertaining. However, I didn't like how three big names just seemed kinda lumped in here, and although Key is an interesting character, I don't think he was deserving of the win over such veterans. Edge winning in his home town would've gotten a huge reaction, and I think you should've gone with that route instead. I like Key, but I think he's beeing shoved down our throats a bit too much.

-Good couple segments inbetween matches trying to hype things up, and a decent women's match. I was surprised to see Daffney win over Trish, especially since the crowd had already put up with two results that I think they would've been less than pleased with. Trish would've been pretty over in Toronto, I think.

-The Cruiserweight Open was an exciting read, and finally it seemed as though things were picking up. I could've gone without Moore winning, as he was pretty much a nobody to the fans, and he just won his first WM match. Still, that doesn't take away from the match, which was a worthy addition to the card in my eyes.

-I couldn't stand Rikishi as the European Champion, and it was good to see the belt get back around the waist of Regal, who's always a great champion. Good interview with the Rock afterwards also, little segments that hype matches later on in the show are both realistic and needed for a good show.

-Although I enjoyed the Test/Bulldog encounter (I find that to be an interesting match-up) I don't think you did a very good job of pleasing the fans so far. I dunno, it just seems like WrestleMania usually has a different feeling, and up until this point in the show, I don't think that you managed to capture it very well.

-Finally it seemed like we got to something that said WrestleMania. The Tag Title match was a very good encounter, and despite me thinking that DX should've had a bigger return, the match was good enough for what it was. It was a surprise to see the Dudleyz retain, but since Trips did get injured, that's understandable. Though once again, I don't think the live crowd would be too happy at this point, they haven't really had a big favorite win yet.

-Kane appears to be back to the monster persona that he should have, so that's a good thing. Kane/Austin isn't the route that I would've taken, but it was a great match, and I can't complain about it. The star power seemed to finally show up for this show, and for a semi-main event, this delivered. The crowd probably wouldn't have been pleased again though, with the fan favorite SCSA losing to the Big Red Machine. It's just something to think about.

-McMahon/Lawler is one of those matches that wasn't going to have a lot of technical wrestling, but there's nothing wrong with a good ol' emotional brawl. For what it was, this match was highly entertaining, and the ending with Jericho showing up was awesome. King winning was something that kind-of needed to happen, but you booked the whole storyline pretty well, and I have no complaints about this match.

-I'm not going to lie, the result of the main event shocked me. The match seemed to be a fairly good main event, but I think the Rock would've gotten pelted with trash when he pinned the Undertaker. Not only did he beat Taker's streak, but a show that was already filled with wins for wrestlers that the crowd isn't exactly cheering for. I really expected you to at least have an awesome ending, and to tell you the truth, I was severely disappointed. It just seemed...anticlimactic. Even if Taker was giving you trouble, and no matter how awesome the Rock might be, I really feel that the title should've changed hands. At least then the fans would've went home happy.

-Overall, this show was a very mixed bag for me. On one hand, it showed that you're committed to being different, and pushing some new talent. Yet on the other hand, it totally lacked that "big time" feel that WrestleMania almost always has. There wasn't really one match that was a must-see, and I found the booking to be really questionable. I'm not sure if you noticed it, but I don't think this was a show that would've left the live crowd very happy. A lot of their heroes lost, and the ending would've just left everyone deflated. As an overall show, this was pretty good. But as a WrestleMania...well, let's just say it wasn't terrible, but it was far from good. I'm hoping that you'll turn things around once the Brand Split starts, it's just unfortunate that the biggest show of the year came off so flat.

[LexChaney]

Ok Don Vito it is time for your feedback on your Wrestlemania, i was looking forward to this as you have built it for months also Kane as a monster had me wanting to know what would happen. So i am glad you have posted it and it is written out very well.

I have selected a few matches of which i liked to give feedback on, hope you don't mind.

Shawn Stasiak vs. Mr Perfect

The first match of the card, also one that had me wanting to know if Perfect could have a Perfect win ^_^ , anyway heel heat all over Stasiak from me so that shows that you have built him up into a heel well, i think i few people would not want to kill me for saying Shawn isn't that bad.

As for Perfect i was never a big fan but since reading your stuff on him i have watched some of him, i must admit i am now a secret fan its just a shame he passed away, to the match.

Shawn the cheating thing, he used the ropes to come away with the win, a perfect ending to the match add's more heat to Shawn for being a heel. This takes nothing away from Perfect but i can't see him letting Shawn get away with it.

I didn't think Key would come away with the win, but he now looks stronger than before. I kind of knew RVD would come away with the win, also this is the kind of booking that happen at the time they failed to see RVD as a Main Event player. Maybe when Jerry Lynn makes his return spark up a feud with them.

Didn't think Trish would lose in hometown which was a shock of the night, also Daffney love that i'm a fan of her lol.

WWF Cruiser weight Championship Invitational Match

The return of Gillberg that had me cracking up well done, also Jerry Lynn i wrote about him above and i didn't expect his return yet so that was also another shock of the night.

Glad he picked up the win and that jerk Mero didn't.....Wait a minute he dropped the belt after damm i didn't the match wasn't over and who wins Brian Moore a good debut, i am no happy about the Lynn thing .

Regal coming out and taking the title home for England, Yeah Baby!. Also you helped Test look like maybe a future Main Event player with his win over the legend that is Davey Boy Smith. The Dudleys retain which was right also just seen the news didn't know Triple H was injured.

Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Kane (w/Paul Heyman)

My match of the night and one of the card that i looked forward to, also i predicted it right yeah. Kane will look very good after this win over Austin also he walked out after the match still looking the hero so i give him that.

Jericho screwing McMahon was sweet, but i don't think Vince will let Chris get away with that will have to see what happens on RAW, also Undertaker his streak came to an end damm.

Good Wrestlemania, there were a lot of shocks which is really what i wanted.

Edited April 7, 2007 by Lex Luther

[DaveKOTW]

UNSTOPPABLE?

Smackdown - March 14, 2002

The Final Smackdown before the WWF Roster Split emerged from Charlotte, North Carolina and was filled with high expectation as fans packed into the arena to see their favourite WWF Superstars. Smackdown kicked off with the man who, at WrestleMania, took Vince McMahon to hell back, the Co-Owner of the World Wrestling Federation Jerry Lawler to a huge response from the fans. Lawler thanked the fans for the support and said that he felt honoured to have such a great response from all the fans here in Charlotte, North Carolina. Jerry Lawler said that while he, like Charlotte’s own Ric Flair, likes nothing more than to have a good time, the reason that he is here right now is for business purposes only. Lawler reminds the fans that in just four days time, the WWF is undergo a change like it never has before when the WWF roster is split into two distinctive brands; one is RAW and the other is Smackdown. Lawler said that the rules concerning the roster split are very simple – each co-owner has a brand; Lawler said that he will take the helm of Monday Night RAW while Vince McMahon will take the helm of Smackdown! The crowd were not happy that Vince McMahon will be running things on Smackdown and booed heavily when Lawler mentioned that he was on RAW. Nevertheless Jerry Lawler continued to explain the rules behind the draft – He said that on RAW next Monday Night, RAW and Smackdown would each get 10 picks from the roster and each pick will be made alternatively. Lawler explained to the fans that as he won at WrestleMania, this would also mean that he would get to make the first pick from the WWF roster and he guaranteed that his choice would turn people’s heads. Lawler continued to explain that after each brand had made their 10 picks; the remainder of the WWF roster would then be randomly drawn into Raw and Smackdown meaning that anyone who is teamed together, with the exception of the WWF Tag Champions, could find themselves split up. The King said that he felt whatever happened this coming Monday, RAW was going to be groundbreaking and on a fool would miss it. Lawler reminded that wrestlers in the back that as this roster split was going to open up more opportunities than they could ever dream of, each and every Superstar on display tonight put on their very best performance because this match could dictate the future of your career here in the WWF. The WWF Roster Split is Live on WWF Raw, next week on TNN!

We return from a commercial break with Donovan Clark and Randy Orton who earlier in the week, made impressive in ring debuts on Raw by getting a pin fall victory on the high flying Hardy Boyz. Michael Cole praised the talent of these two young superstars as being amazingly gifted wrestlers who have the potential to make it big here in the WWF as long as they keep their egos in check and Tazz agrees 100%. Tonight, Clark and Orton took on the team of Val Venis and Hardcore Holly, two veterans of the WWF who certainly know how to get things done in the ring. Randy Orton and Holly kicked things off at the start of the match and Orton immediately tried to mock Holly with his fast pace and his sound amateur wrestling knowledge. Hardcore Holly quickly took a huge exception to this and as soon as he got his opportunity, hit Orton with some really stiff shots much to the delight of the fans. Clark and Orton used the tag well and smartly isolated Hardcore Holly from his opponent for much of the match after they identified Holly’s right leg as a particularly weak spot following a hard chop block to the back of the knee by Clark. Orton seemed to be particular vicious against Holly obviously taking exception to Holly’s stiff shots earlier in the match wrapping Holly’s leg several times around one of the ring posts much to the dismay of Holly’s partner. Holly desperately needed to make the tag out but Orton and Clark held him back until Holly managed to free himself with a boot and brought Val Venis into the match, Venis taking the fight right to his opponents. Venis hit Donovan Clark with a Spinebuster setting him for the Money Shot but much like what happened to Matt Hardy earlier in the week, Orton attacked Val while he was on the top turnbuckle sending him back down to the mat allowing Donovan Clark to get an advantage and hit Val Venis with the Swinging Reverse DDT for the win. Clark and Orton are now 2-0 here in the WWF!

We cut backstage to Diamond Dallas Page who is yelling at one of the clothes designers for apparently taking too long with his new tights – Page felt that the backstage staff here in the WWF had a bias to Jerry Lawler and it made him angry. Chris Jericho walked in on the commotion and told DDP that it didn’t might what his ring attire was because he’d still suck as a Wrestler but then again, Page would know all about sucking since he was Vince McMahon’s personal bitch. DDP told Jericho that was rich coming from a guy whose single greatest achievement was holding the WCW Title for a 15 long days. Jericho laughed at Page’s insult and commented that since it was such a “disgrace” losing to someone like The Rock, he wondered what it would have been like to a lose the WCW title to someone like…David Arquette! The crowd laughed that one up I’ll tell ya! Page said that Jericho was a funny guy…real funny – so much so that it would be a shame if someone kicked his pretty little head in and a scuffle commenced. Road Agents quickly came to the scene to pull both wrestlers apart. Page was bleeding from the lip and the crowd were cheering like crazy back in the arena. As Page was being pulled backwards, Page challenged Jericho to a match later tonight and Jericho accepted instantly. That is going to be a slobberknocker!

Up Next was Raven who was scheduled to face RVD later that night and it looked like he had something to say. Raven told the crowd that people had been asking all this week about why he attacked Mr Perfect last Monday Night on Raw and Raven said it was now time to set the record straight. Raven said that it was obviously to anyone that knew him know that he doesn’t exactly play with a full deck of cards and Raven said that was down to his past – his childhood even. Raven said back in those days, people used to look at him like he was a freak; like he was trash and the only reasons he was treated like that was because he was different….because he didn’t want to be a jock. Raven said that he was beaten up, berated, abused and it left him scarred and depressed wanting nothing more than to end it all there and then simply because of guys like that. Raven said that Mr Perfect is no different from any of the guys that he knew back in those days; a man consumed by his own ego that he fails to realise that he is not perfect and Raven promises to make him see this reality. Raven swears that when this is all said and done and Mr Perfect is lying in a pool of his own blood wondering where it all went wrong, the last person who will see is him. Strong words from Raven! His Match vs. RVD is next!

Following a short commercial break we returned to the ring as Rob Van Dam made his way to the ring, to a standing ovation from the crowd, for his match with Raven. Michael Cole reminds us that RVD was involved in the Fatal Four Way Hardcore Match at WrestleMania 4 nights ago and Van Dam still looks like he’s carrying some sort of minor injury from his match. Nevertheless, Rob Van Dam dominated Raven in the early goings of the match who had found it difficult to counter any of Van Dam’s unique style of attack. The match didn’t take long to get taken to the outside and Van Dam tried decided to bump up the risk. Unfortunately for Van Dam, his risk moves didn’t pay as he failed to connect with a diving leg drop from the top turnbuckle to the outside Raven getting out of harms way just in the nick of time. Raven took RVD back to the ring and tried to wear him down with a sleeper hold but the fans got behind right Mr Thursday Night which gave him a second wind. Van Dam mounted a huge offensive hitting using his quick feet well before hitting Raven with the Rolling Thunder. Unfortunately for Van Dam, tonight wasn’t going to be his night as Raven got the knees up with RVD attempted the 5 Star Frog Splash before planting him with The Raven Effect. What a message Raven has sent to Mr Perfect here tonight!

The show then cut to the announce table and Michael Cole announced that coming up after the break is the handicap match requested by Shawn Michaels against The Dudley Boyz, the team that he faced just four nights ago at WrestleMania. However, next up for the fans was a Triple H injury update and Michael Cole couldn’t emphasise enough how much of a blow this was for the WWF. Tazz said that he couldn’t believe Triple H was out again for another 8 months after only just returning to action following a horrendous quad injury and both me and Michael Cole hope that he returns to action as soon as possible Get well soon Triple H!

The Triple H Injury Update Featured Stephanie McMahon, Triple H and his surgeon. Triple H mentioned that the injury he sustained is essentially the same injury that put Chris Benoit out of action in June 2001 and that his surgery was to repair a ruptured disc that had fractured into his spinal column. His surgeon said that the Game would effectively not be able to return to a WWF ring for at least 8 months but he is sure that with Triple H’s motivation that when he returns to the ring, he’ll be back to his best. Both Triple H and Stephanie McMahon were very emotional and The Game said that being out of action again with another long term injury was such a huge disappointment and he still feels in a state of shock. Triple H however said that he guaranteed that the Game is Not Over and fans can rest assured that when he returns, he will still be that damn good!

After the commercial break we headed back to the ring for the highly anticipated handicap match between the WWF Tag Team Champions the Dudley Boyz and the Heart Break Kid Shawn Michaels. HBK came to the ring in full Heart Break Kid get up coming down to his “Sexy Boy” theme tune rather than doing the DX entrance and Michael Cole informed the fans that this was Shawn Michaels first ever match here on Smackdown. Michaels started the match off at an electric pace trying to take the match to both of the Dudley Boyz but the numbers game quickly turned in the favour of the Dudleyz who with good team work were able to slow down their eager challenger. Bubba Ray seemed the man most eager to make a last impression really delivering stiff moves to HBK and nearly got the win with the Bubba bomb midway through the match. The Dudleyz tagged smartly together keeping the match tight and would without a doubt feel aggrieved by the end result. While double teaming Michaels, Bubba sent the Heart Break Kid into the ropes and had every intention of hitting the 3D but Michaels held onto the ropes before planting Bubba with the Sweet Chin Music and clearing D-Von from the ring with a clothesline. With a roar from the crowd, HBK went up to the top rope and planted Bubba Ray with his trademark diving elbow drop for the win. HBK has done it and the crowd got to their feet and applauded the effort of the Showstopper!

We then cut backstage to The Rock who was standing with Jonathan Coachman. The Rock said that last week on Raw was nothing short of a travesty; he said that he had, out of the goodness of his own heart, given The Undertaker and that big red retard Kane a chance to have a shot at the WWF Championship and then, to show his gratitude, The Undertaker attacks him while on commentary. The Rock said that his actions last week on Raw were strictly acts of self defence and he got further punished by Kane because of it. The Rock moaned that if that wasn’t enough, The Rock had been further punished by being put in a Non-Title Match against Kane right here on Smackdown by Jerry Lawler. The Rock said that he hopes come the Roster Split on Monday Night, The Rock just gets placed on the better brand…Vince’s brand. Do you smell What the Rock is cooking?

Further backstage, we are shown Chris Jericho and Diamond Dallas Page both making their way to the ring. Diamond Dallas Page vs. Chris Jericho is NEXT!

When the show returned from the commercial break, we went straight to the ring for the Jericho/DDP match. As the two Superstars came to the ring, Michael Cole and Tazz discussed Chris Jericho’s return to action at WrestleMania and the impact that his interference has had on the company. Tazz likened Jericho’s return to the WWF on par to the Alliance invasion last year as being totally off the hook and confessed that he could not wait for this match up tonight. Jericho and Page did not disappoint anyone in the arena tonight as both men delivered an all out performance in front of this sold out arena here in Charlotte North Carolina. Jericho had kicked the match off with a huge burst of enthusiasm taking the fight to DDP mixing up some decent aerial moves with some loud back hand chops. But DDP was no rookie in the ring and he slowly began to turn the tie nearly taking the win with a huge belly to back mat slam. Page was hated here in Charlotte, North Carolina and he teased the fans well calling Jericho before hitting moves and there was about 4 occasions where the fans actually thought Jericho may not be able to come back. Page’s cocky streak finally got the better of him and despite hitting Jericho with the diamond cutter, refused to take the win on that pin and decided to go for a second, this time Jericho countering the move sending Page flying into the ropes before rolling up DDP into the Walls of Jericho, DDP tapping after his attempt to reach the bottom rope failed. The crowd were wild for Jericho here tonight and Jericho looked delighted to be back on the good side of the fans really working the crowd after the bell went. Welcome home Chris! Welcome home!

We are next informed that “The World’s Strongest Man” Mark Henry is returning to the World Wrestling Federation soon and “Somebody’s Gonna Get It!”

We cut back to the ring and Michael Cole informs it’s time for the Main Event between Kane and The Rock. Kane and Paul Heyman came to the ring first and Kane looked ready to compete when…

….”Rollin” by Limp Bizkit blasted out of the PA system and the crowd roar as The Undertaker made his way to the ring. The Dead Man looked to be a in a foul mood as hoe grabbed hold of a mic and pulled no punches in letting Kane and Heyman know how he felt. The Undertaker said that while he is aware that both Kane and The Rock obviously have some unfinished business, he has some unfinished business of his own and whether Kane liked it or not, The Undertaker was taking his place in the match tonight. Kane looked like he was going to advance on Taker but Heyman halted any further action from taking place and accepted The Undertaker’s demands much to the surprise to both the crowd and the announce team. It’s going to be The Undertaker vs. The Rock after the break!

When we returned from the final commercial break to find Paul Heyman and Kane lingering on the outside of the ring while The Undertaker waited patiently for The Rock to make his entrance - when the WWF Champ finally did arrive, the crowd did not treat him kindly. The Rock did not look happy about facing The Undertaker here tonight and when the bell rang, he kept breaking out of the opening grapple complaining that his arms were sweaty or that the grapple wasn’t locked in fairly. The Undertaker finally snapped and pounced on the WWF Champ beating the living daylights out the him in the opening quarter of them match with one hell of a load of right hands. While The Undertaker was looking impressive it was obvious to the onlooker that The Undertaker looked more intent on hurting the WWF Champion rather than beating him walking a fine line in particular when The Undertaker took The Rock to the outside using the steel steps especially well. When The Undertaker brought The Rock back to the ring, the WWF Champion desperately tried to find a way out of the Dead Man’s clutches fighting with all the fists he could must but The Undertaker was unable to take down, Taker instead levelling The Rock with a big boot to the face. The Rock’s day looked to have gone from bad to worse when The Undertaker hit him with the chokeslam but The Rock somehow managed to get the shoulder up much to the surprise of the WWF fans. The Undertaker didn’t take long to collect his thoughts and tried to end the match with the Last Ride but The Rock smartly countered the Last Ride, just like he did at WrestleMania, reversing the move into a big DDT buying The Rock some valuable time. Heyman and Kane continued to chat amongst themselves on the outside while both men tried to get back to their feet and Michael Cole and Tazz wondered why these two still men still remained at ringside. The announcers’ questions would be answered not long after The Rock hit The Undertaker with a huge Spinebuster. The Rock, cocky as ever, went for the People’s Elbow but The Undertaker sat up midway through the manoeuvre and planted The Rock with a second chokeslam. Taker immediately got back to a vertical base and this time connected with the Last Ride but Taker wasn’t able to take the win as Heyman pulled the referee out of the ring. Just when Taker thought things couldn’t get worse, Kane came up from behind and clobbered him from behind with a huge clothesline before planting Taker with a vicious chokeslam. The show ended just like it did on Monday with Kane and Heyman standing tall in the middle of the ring while both the WWF Champion and the Former Number One Contender lay flat on their backs. Can anyone stop the Big Red Monster Kane?

QUICK RESULTS

Donovan Clark and Randy Orton def. Val Venis and Hardcore Holly

Raven def. Rob Van Dam

Shawn Michaels def. the Dudley Boyz

Chris Jericho def. Diamond Dallas Page

The Rock vs. The Undertaker ended in a draw via DQ

Edited April 7, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[slain]

I'm still loving this diary DaveKOTW, it's fantastic!

Smackdown!:

-Clark and Orton get another win over some more established superstars. I'm liking their push and everything, but why does it have to be Venis

-Raven beating RVD, I must admit, I did not see that coming, lets hope it goes somewhere now

-HBK beating both Dudley Boyz, I saw it coming, but it was a good match

-Jericho over DDP, again, saw it coming. DDP is my favorite, why must you job him

-Rock Vs. Undertaker was a great match, but the ending disappointed me a little bit

Great Smackdown, keep it up man (Y)

[DaveKOTW]

THE ROSTER SPLIT

RAW Preview - March 18, 2002

Over the years, RAW has provided the World Wrestling Federation with some of the most spectacular moments in the history of the Wrestling Business. With that in mind, WWF.com firmly believes that tonight's RAW will be the most spectacular yet as the FIRST EVER WWF Roster Split is launched right here in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Who will end up on what show? Where will the WWF titles be heading? With Jerry Lawler, and his allocated brand RAW, being the first to make the first of 20 picks that will take place on RAW tonight, surely Lawler's first pick will be the WWF Champion The Rock. With The American Badass, The Undertaker, and The Big Red Monster Kane both on the trail of the WWF Champion, you can be damn sure that both these men will be interested in where the WWF Champion is heading.

Another man who will be interested in which brand he ends up is Y2J Chris Jercho who, just over a week ago at WrestleMania, made a huge suprise return to cost Vince McMahon his chance to end this roster split before it even got started. The current noise backstage is that Vince McMahon is still livid about what Chris Jericho did at WrestleMania and Vince would just love to get Jericho on his Smackdown brand so that he could make his life a living hell.

RAW will also have Tag Team action tonight as the Hardy Boyz will take on The Dudley Boyz and Ron Waterman and X-Pac in a triple threat match for the WWF Tag Team Championships. As part of the Roster split, the only tag team that is guaranteed to remain together is the WWF Tag Team Champions. Which of these three teams will be able to guarantee to take the Gold tonight as the WWF moves into a new era?

Shawn Michaels will also see action tonight as he takes on the former WWF Cruiserweight Champion Marc Mero. Earlier in the day, Marc Mero exclusively told WWF.com that now he has proved himself as a Cruiserweight Legend, it was time to make the next step up to the WWF Heavyweight Superstars. Mero guaranteed that tonight, Shawn Michaels was going to feel his wrath and feel the full force of the TKO

Tune in at 9/8 CT to TNN to see WWF RAW

[Adam]

RAW's looking good, i cant wait to see how the draft pans out! If written well enough, this show could be the best you've written yet. The Rock-Kane-Taker thing should be good if furthered too.

But damn, you need a new RAW logo, RAW is WAR went out years ago! lol

[DaveKOTW]

THE DRAFT HAPPENS

RAW - March 18, 2002

For the past week, everyone in the world of wrestling has been speculating what would go down with the WWF. Would the roster split take place? Which WWF superstars would go where? Tonight provides fans everywhere with the nights they were waiting. Tonight everything goes down and it happened only on Monday Night Raw!

We kick of the show in the arena and JR and Mick Foley expressed the excitement for a show that promised to live in the memory for the WWF fans. Tonight would be the first time in WWF history that the company would be split in two, right down the middle and nobody could wait to see what would happen. We caught a quick glimpse of the podium at the top of the ramp where it was suggested the Co-Owners of the WWF would make their announcements before we were taken backstage to show the entire WWF roster congregating in a big room waiting which show they’d be on.

The first man to step into the arena was none other than Jerry Lawler and the crowd go wild. JR reminded the fans watching that Jerry Lawler had chosen RAW brand to be his brand and that Lawler has promised everyone involved with RAW currently that the future will be bright and by God, JR believed him. Lawler headed off to the podium and said that he was glad to be the man who was opening up this momentous occasion and guaranteed that with him as the head of the RAW brand, RAW was going to enjoy many more years of exciting Sports Entertainment and he couldn’t wait to get his hands dirty. Vince McMahon however didn’t share the same feelings for his brand. Vince burst out through the entrance, mic already in hand, and was furious with Lawler. Vince said that despite Lawler’s involvement with the future of RAW, whether he likes it or not, the records will show that WWF RAW was invented by Vincent Kennedy McMahon and anything he ever achieves will be thanks to Vincent Kennedy McMahon. Lawler agreed with Vince and told him that he’d make sure that when RAW is the number one brand in Sports Entertainment to credit him as the man who created the brand that later came back to annihilate him out of the Sports Entertainment business. Vince was furious but the fans loved it. After the crowd cooled down, Lawler got down to business. Lawler said that there had been rumours going through the day about who his first pick. He said that some speculated incorrectly while others guessed right. Nevertheless, the RAW brand’s first pick is the WWF Champion….The Rock!

…The Rock’s music hit the arena and the crowd booed as the WWF Champions stats came up on screen. JR said that The Rock wasn’t in the building at the moment but the crowd but he thought that The Rock was going to be not pleased about being part of Lawler’s new administration. Vince McMahon was not happy and he quickly stormed off to the back. It looks like we’re going to an unscheduled commercial break.

When the show returned, Vince McMahon was backstage with his group. All three of his henchmen tried to offer him advice but Vince told them that he would call them up as soon as he knew it was safe to. Vince was paranoid that Lawler was playing mind games and Vince said that he didn’t want to fall for any mind games. Therefore, Vince proclaimed that he was going to go out to that ring and announce that his first pick was none other than Chris Jericho. However, just as Vince made this decision, Paul Heyman seemed to dive through the air begging Vince to reconsider. Heyman told Vince that he and Vince have a long history and Heyman was the first to admit that their relationship wasn’t always wonderful. However, Heyman advised Vince that hiring someone of the calibre of Chris Jericho was an immense mistake. Heyman said he knew that Vince wanted his revenge and Heyman respected that. But Heyman felt that Jerry Lawler wasn’t looking for someone like Jericho, he didn’t want “yes men”. Heyman said what Jericho wanted was people like Kane, men who are the “future” of the company. Heyman told Vince that Kane is not your mere mortal of a man like Jericho. Kane is 7ft tall. Kane weights 320lbs and at WrestleMania, Kane destroyed Stone Cold Steve Austin in a Last Man Standing Match but Vince wasn’t particularly sold on the idea. Vince told Heyman that he’d think about it on the way to the ring.

We next had another hype video for the “World’s Strongest Man” Mark Henry who is returning to action sometime soon.

After the hype video, we returned back to ring side where Vince McMahon was seen standing by the podium. Vince said that his next pick was a huge decision to make but he has decided, possibly against his better judgement, that the Smackdown brand’s first pick would be……“The Big Red Monster” KANE. Kane’s music immediately hit the arena and his stats were shown on the titantron. Vince’s celebratory moment did not last more than a few seconds as Jerry Lawler joined him back in the arena. Lawler told Vince that he was impressed with Vince’s insight and congratulated Vince on the excellent choice in signing Kane. But Lawler told Vince that he felt that his next choice could easily make just as big an impact as Kane on RAW because Lawler’s next choice was…..CHRIS JERICHO. The crowd went wild as Jericho’s music hit the arena but Vince couldn’t believe his ears. Vince wanted revenge on Jericho but now he’ll never be able to get his hands on him!

Backstage, Matt and Jeff Hardy were walking towards the ring which could only mean one thing. The Tag Team Title Triple Threat Match was NEXT!

When the show returned the Hardy Boyz, Ron Waterman and X-Pac and the WWF Tag Team Champions the Dudley Boyz fought tooth and nail to keep their chances of being a team alive as well as getting their hands on some WWF Tag Team Gold. Ron Waterman and X-Pac, to the surprise of fans, took the advantage of the early goings of the match, Waterman nearly scoring the pin fall on Jeff Hardy following a Spinebuster but Bubba Ray Dudley somehow got back into the ring and made the save. After much back and forth action from all three teams, it was the Dudley Boyz who stole the victory from the hands of X-Pac and Ron Waterman, X-Pac planting Jeff Hardy with the X-Factor but Matt Hardy came into the ring and took him to the outside allowing an opportunistic D-Von Dudley to slide back into the ring and make the cover while everyone else was occupied. After the match, the Dudley Boyz quickly made their exit back up the ramp way taunting X-Pac and Waterman with their title belts as Matt Hardy looked down at his brother Jeff bitterly disappointed. Is this the end of the Hardy Boyz?

We returned to Vince McMahon backstage and he was livid. He yelled at DDP telling him that he couldn’t believe that Chris Jericho was called up to RAW. Vince said that he wanted revenge and he told DDP that he was going to get it. Vince’s office door smashed open and through it walked The Undertaker and the Dead Man did not look happy. Taker told Vince that he didn’t care who he wanted to call up next, Taker said he wanted in on Smackdown and he wanted Kane. Vince furiously told The Undertaker that he couldn’t talk to him like that but The Undertaker grabbed hold of Vince by his jacket and strung him up against the wall. Taker told Vince that either he is Vince’s next choice or The Undertaker promised that Vince’s choice would be his last. McMahon hastily agreed with The Undertaker to make him his next pick and Taker let him down giving Page a harsh look before he left the office. Page tried to straight up Vince’s jacket but Vince was in no mood for niceties. It looks like The Undertaker is Vince McMahon’s 2nd pick!

The second match of the night featured the WWF Women’s Champion Daffney Unger taking on an unknown female wrestler by the name of Christina. Unger made easy work of her opponent with opponent albeit with some sloppy work. Unger finished off her opponent with a hurricanranna which she then followed up with her trademark jumping DDT to retain the WWF Women’s Title.

Backstage Jerry Lawler is looking at a profile on a clipboard. Lawler said to himself that this next pick is going to make Vince McMahon’s night even worse.

When the show returned from the commercial break, Jerry Lawler was out in front and he was raring to tell the world his next pick. Lawler told the world that he knew this one was going to make all the fans and he was damn sure that JR would happy because WWF Raw’s next pick was…..STONE COLD STEVE AUSTIN.

Backstage Vince McMahon was watching the TV with Diamond Dallas Page and Vince was shaking his head. Vince wouldn’t believe what was going down here. Vince told Page that Lawler has got three of the best WWF Superstars in the business and it was damn wrong. Vince said that his next pick was certainly going to make up for it though because his next pick was HBK Shawn Michaels!

Further backstage, Jerry Lawler’s number one pick, the WWF Champion, The Rock is walking backstage when he is halted by the Coach who says he has news for the WWF Champion. The Rock didn’t look one bit happy and told The Coach that he refused to answer any questions about the draft but Coach told him it had nothing to do with it. The Coach said that Jerry Lawler had made a match tonight with The Rock and he would be teaming up with his RAW brand colleague Chris Jericho against Smackdown’s own Kane and The Undertaker!

The next match of the night saw the WWF Hardcore Champion Key take on Sabu, fresh of the back of a 30 day suspension, in a Hardcore Title Match. This match was the first time the two opponents had faced each other since No Way Out and both men fought tooth and nail to get their hands on the WWF Hardcore Title. Charles Wright played a huge factor at the beginning of the match assisting Key in the beat down of Sabu on the outside both men whipping him hard into the steel steps. However, Charles Wright did not escape the night unscathed as Sabu sent Wright crashing through a table via the Air Sabu for getting too involved in his business. Key, despite having a major concern for his agent’s welfare, kept it together to retain his WWF Hardcore Title moving off the table just as Sabu went for his Flying Arabian Skullcrusher causing Sabu to crash and burn through the thick table wood and all Key had to do with make the cover. Key needed to be helped up after the match but it didn’t change the fact that the current WWF Hardcore Champion was on one hell of a run of form!

After another commercial break, we returned to the arena with Jerry Lawler who announced that his fourth draft pick for Monday Night RAW was a man that had proven this year that he could hang with the big players in the WWF. Lawler said that he hoped that this on RAW, this man could take the step up to the Main Event permanently and he would do everything he could to make sure he gets there – The Raw brand’s fourth pick was TEST.

The show went backstage to the room where all the WWF Superstars were congregating and Test didn’t look happy. JR and Foley commented that Test certainly had Main Event Material but while they did, Vince McMahon made his way to the top of the rap and joined Lawler. Vince said that he was impressed with The King’s picks so far but Vince said that he finally outsmarted him. Vince said that while Test is no doubt a great superstar who he’d love to have on the Smackdown roster, Vince’s fourth pick was a man who had WWF Title Gold and he is the WWF Intercontinental Champion Shawn Stasiak. Lawler laughed off Vince’s call and said that he admired Vince’s attempt to out play him but two can play this game. Lawler said that in light of Vince’s decision, his firth roster pick for the RAW brand would be the WWF European Champion William Regal. An unhappy Vince said he wouldn’t be beaten by these games and told the fans that if Lawler picked Regal four his Fifth pick then his fifth pick would have to be someone of “Olympic” proportions to out do him. That is why Vince McMahon’s 5th pick for WWF Smackdown was none other than the Olympic Gold Medallist and former WWF and WCW Champion, Kurt Angle!

JR and Mick Foley quick take some time out to recap on the first 10 picks in the WWF roster draft.

The RAW brand have drafted 1)The Rock (The WWF Champion), 2)Chris Jericho, 3)Stone Cold Steve Austin, 4)Test and 5)William Regal (WWF European Champion), while The Smackdown Brand have drafted 1)Kane, 2)The Undertaker, 3)Shawn Michaels, 4)Shawn Stasiak (WWF Intercontinental Champion) and 5)Kurt Angle.

After a short advert, the WWF returned to more in ring action pitting the Heart Break Kid Shawn Michaels against Marc Mero. This match was a quick one that was only ever going to go one way. Mero tried to take the advantage of coming to the ring first jumping HBK before he even got to his feet in the ring and beat down on Michaels with some huge clubbing blows. Everyone knows by now though that HBK only needs a second to turn the match and it didn’t take long for Michaels to reverse an Irish whip attempt before planting him with the Sweet Chin Music for the 1, 2, 3. After the match, HBK grabbed hold of a microphone and told the fans that he can’t quite believe how quickly the wrestling industry changes and that RAW had been a very special show to him for as long has he could remember. HBK said that while his future will lie on Smackdown, he will never forget the great times he has had on Raw and promised that he would one day return! HBK dropped the mic and bowed down to all of the fans before heading off up the ramp way for possibly his last time to the applause of the fans.

Backstage, Vince McMahon was in his office and was discussing his next move with DDP when The King made an appearance. Lawler told Vince that he just wanted to send his appreciation over to Shawn Michaels for putting over his superior brand live on RAW and Vince looked liked he might explode but DDP told Vince that Lawler wasn’t worth it. Lawler said that he didn’t come to see Vince to get him excited but to reveal to him his 6th pick of the night and he is the WWF Hardcore Champion Key! Vince told Lawler that while Lawler might have the WWF Hardcore Champion, Vince’s 6th pick was the WWF Tag Team Champions the Dudley Boyz. An angered Lawler quickly retaliated making Edge his 7th pick and Vince then countered Lawler with……with……with…….DIAMOND DALLAS PAGE! Lawler laughed it off and walked off leaving DDP with a big grin on his face although Vince looked less happy with his decision.

Up next was Kurt Angle against Perry Saturn in a non-title match up. Kurt Angle had not been having the best months first losing a chance to regain the WWF Championship at Vengeance before losing his match at WrestleMania against Key for the WWF Hardcore Championship. Tonight however was a different story altogether and Kurt Angle looked as aggressive as he had ever been completely decimating his opponent Perry Saturn. Angle finished Saturn off hitting him with the Angle Slam before dropping his straps and locking in the Ankle Lock on Saturn who quickly tapped out. After the match, Angle walked off without a celebration and Angle looked totally focused. Could this be the Angle revival?

After another break, we returned ring side to find out the final six picks of the WWF Draft. Lawler was up first and after he and Vince McMahon shared some stern looks, Lawler told the fans that RAW’s next pick would be none other than the man who last year made a huge name for himself in the WCW/ECW Invasion and his name is none other than Rob-Van-Dam. Vince McMahon laughed off Lawler’s choice and reminded him that while Van Dam did make a name for himself during the Invasion, the WWF crushed the life out of the WCW just like Vince was going to do to Jerry Lawler and his RAW roster. Vince said that his 8th pick for Smackdown would be a man that could help Smackdown develop its tag team division as he was influential in developing the WWF Tag Team Divisions in the few years. Smackdown’s 8th pick would be none other than Matt Hardy! But while Vince had plans to use the Hardy Boyz on Smackdown, Lawler refused to let Vince get his hands on another successful tag team and made his 9th pick for the RAW roster Jeff Hardy! The crowd booed Lawler’s decision and back in the locker room, where everyone was congregating, the Hardy Boyz hugged each other as their time as a team had ended. Vince McMahon was furious once more, as he had been most of the night, yelling at Lawler that the game he was playing was wrong and he knew it and Vince tried to make out he was more concerned about splitting up brothers although we all knew his real concerns. After Vince got himself back into focus, Vince announced that his 9th pick would be the WWF Cruiserweight Champion Brian Moore. Lawler continued to play the title game and made his 10th roster pick for RAW the WWF Women’s Champion Daffney Unger which meant that all the WWF titles were now taken. But Vince still had one ace up his sleeve as he announced that his final pick for the Smackdown brand would be a man who had a bright future in the company…a man who really wanted to be in the WWF…Smackdown’s 10th pick was the Tough Enough Winner, MAVEN! The crowd laughed at Vince’s decision to pick the Tough Enough winner as his 10th pick and Vince resorted to telling the WWF fans to shut the hell up which only got their back up more. Lawler made life more difficult for Vince when Lawler told the crowds to say goodbye to Vince and it would be the last time they’d ever have to see his face on RAW and the crowd joined in song and said goodbye to the WWF Co-Owner as he stormed out of the arena.

We take one final recap on the Roster Draft

RAW

1.The Rock

2.Chris Jericho

3.Stone Cold

4.Test

5.William Regal

6.Key

7.Edge

8.Rob Van Dam

9.Jeff Hardy

10.Daffney Unger

SMACKDOWN

1. The Undertaker

2. Kane

3. Shawn Michaels

4. Shawn Stasiak

5. Kurt Angle

6 The Dudley Boyz

7. Diamond Dallas Page

8. Matt Hardy

9. Brian Moore

10. Maven

It was finally time for the main event, and JR and Mick Foley speculated how the new brands would function with all the titles dispersed over both brands as the WWF Champion The Rock, Chris Jericho, Kane and The Undertaker made their respective entrances. This was one very intense match. Both teams seemed to accept their responsibilities at the start of the match as Jericho mixed it up in the ring with Kane although the tension between the four competitors was definitely noticeable.. Jericho started off the match by trying to take Kane off of his two feet by working the leg of the Big Red Monster but Jericho only anger the Monster and Kane soon took his head off with a huge clothesline. Jericho tagged out to the WWF Champion and The Rock tried to make some head way with a fierce attack hitting Kane with a DDT although Kane powered out of The Rock’s cover attempt after the two count. The Undertaker wanted in at the match but Kane refused to acknowledge The Undertaker’s existence and continued to go back to the fight with Kane angering The Dead Man. Things got worse as The Rock began to make some head way with Kane only for Chris Jericho to make the blind tag and follow up on one of The Rock’s attacks with a drop kick. Jericho went for the cover on Kane but The Rock pulled him off and the two men kicked off a yelling contest which quickly looked like it was going to turn into a fist fight but Kane broke the two up with a double clothesline taking both opponents to the outside. The Rock and Jericho weren’t the only team having problems though as Kane turned around and nearly walked straight into the hand of The Undertaker who dropped the Big Red Monster with a huge chokeslam. The Undertaker’s music hit the ring and The Undertaker left the ring but as he did, Kane sat back up and The Undertaker and Kane stared off at each other while The Rock and Chris Jericho lay motionless on the outside. Have Smackdown just taken the edge here tonight?

THE RESULTS

The Dudley Boyz def. The Hardy Boyz and Ron Waterman and X-Pac to retain the WWF Tag Team Titles

Daffney Unger def. Christina to retain to the WWF Womens Title

Key def. Sabu to retain the WWF Hardcore Title

Kurt Angle def. Perry Saturn

Shawn Michaels def. Marc Mero

The Rock and Chris Jericho drew with Kane and The Undertaker

Edited April 11, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[The Red Reuben]

Great show.

However, I think Smackdown! got the severe short end of the stick. By far.

Oh well. Maybe I'm wrong. The roster just looks weak.

[DaveKOTW]

SMACKDOWN VS. RAW

Smackdown Preview - March 21, 2002

Tonight the World Wrestling Federation rolls into Indianapolis, Indiana for a very special edition of Smackdown where the Smackdown Superstars will go head to head with the Raw Superstars for the very first time in a night that will surely symbolise the end of one whole WWF brand. RAW and Smackdown Owners Jerry Lawler and Vince McMahon are both highly excited about the show and both feel that tonight is the night that their respective brand can show the other why they will be the dominant brand in the WWF.

So what are the rules and who is going to be facing who? "Well for Starters.." said Jerry Lawler, "none of the titles will be on the line tonight". Vince McMahon added "Humiliating the opposition is the only goal and I can hardly wait. Tonight the Smackdown brand is going to choke the life out of the RAW brand just like I did to WCW!". With such evident animosity between the two brand owners, you can be sure that tonight's Smackdown will not be one to miss!

THE LINE UP

The Rock vs. The Undertaker

Rob Van Dam and Sabu vs. The Dudley Boyz

Raven vs. Shawn Michaels

Chris Jericho vs. Kane (w/Paul Heyman)

William Regal vs. The British Bulldog

Key (w/Charles Wright) vs. Al Snow

Rikishi and Scotty 2 Hotty vs. Kurt Angle and Shawn Stasiak

Edited April 12, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[DaveKOTW]

ALL SQUARE IN INDIANA

Smackdown - March 21, 2002

The World Wrestling Federation kicked off it's new dual brand era with The RAW and Smackdown brands going head to head for the first time ever in Indianapolis, Indiana on WWF Smackdown in what promised to be an explosive night of Sports Entertainment.

The show kicked off with Smackdown Owner Vince McMahon coming to the ring to let a few things off his chest. Vince McMahon told the WWF fans that although he felt the draft had not gone in his favour at the beginning of the night, Vince now feels confident about the Smackdown brand has all the potential to become the dominant brand in this company. Vince said that ever since the rosters were drafted, his phone has been going none stop with Wrestlers from all around the world who want nothing more than to be a part of the Smackdown brand and Vince said that he would damn sure be giving everyone an opportunity to prove themselves. Vince told the crowd that tonight was instrumental in the success of Smackdown because tonight the Smackdown Superstars would go head to head with RAW Superstars and Smackdown and to show it's dominance. Vince said that he believed that despite many people questioning the locker room mentality of the Smackdown Superstars, Vince told the crowd that they were strong and that tonight, they were going to grasp hold of the neck of Jerry Lawler and RAW and squeeze the life from it. But then.....

...Jerry Lawler made his way down to the ring to confront Vince's comments. Lawler told Vince that he was surprised to see Vince so joyful considering his draft demolition last Monday Night on RAW. Lawler said that it wasn't just clear that the RAW brand had more star power than Smackdown but the RAW brand also had more attraction power than it and that the RAW brand had been hot in negotiations all through the week. Vince called Lawler a liar and told the audience that he was bluffing but nobody was quite sure what Lawler was up to. Lawler then told all the WWF fans that if they were interested in Real Sports Entertainment unlike this joke of a brand called Smackdown, fans should tune in to TNN next Monday for the grand opening of the New RAW. Lawler's music hit the arena again and he left the ring with a huge grin on his face as Vince McMahon looked on dejected.

The first match of the night was the huge tag team match with the Intercontinental Champion Shawn Stasiak and the Olympic Gold Medallist Kurt Angle representing Smackdown taking on the RAW team of Rikishi and Scotty 2 Hotty. Considering the quality of the Smackdown team, one wouldn't have been surprised if this match had of only lasted a short period of time but the RAW tag team had an impressive outing. Scotty played the majority of the match as the face in distress with both Angle and Stasiak providing tough beat downs on the little fella before Scotty managed to make the hot tag out to his partner Rikishi who looked on top form bringing the fight to both of his competitors. Rikishi nailed Stasiak with the Savate Kick but took his eyes off the legal man Kurt Angle for a second too long and Angle punished him nailing him with a huge forearm to the back of the head before planting him with the Angle Slam for the win. (Smackdown lead RAW 1-0)

Test was the next man out to come to the squared circle and it was the first time the WWF fans had since him, minus a very short appearance on RAW, since WrestleMania. Test said that last Monday on RAW, Jerry Lawler proved to every RAW Superstar just what sort of a man he was when he lied to every RAW Superstar and Fan of the WWF. Test was angry that Lawler said that Test had a huge future on RAW yet Lawler didn't even have the respect to put him on the huge Smackdown vs. RAW card that even includes people like Raven! "What's that Aboot?" Test said that he's been in this company too long to be treated like that and he demands some damn respect. Or else. Did Test just threaten the Owner of RAW?

The WWF Hardcore Champion Key was up next and looked to level the score for RAW when he took on the legendary Al Snow in Hardcore action. Key and Snow fought tooth and nail through the match with both wrestlers using an array of weaponry on each other but Al was unable to hold off the double attack of both the Champion and his Agent Charles Wright, Wright eventually making the breakthrough attacking Snow from behind with a vicious chair shot before Key hit Snow the Face Eraser to pick up the win. Key held on to his title for another week and the question that must still be going through everyone’s mind is whether anyone can actually beat him for that Hardcore Title? (RAW 1 - 1 Smackdown)

Smackdown's night didn't get any better when the WWF European Champion William Regal defeated The British Bulldog in the third match up of the night. Regal won the match by utilising the brass knucks once more to take out his opponent after miscommunication between the wrestlers and the referee led to Bulldog unintentionally knocking the referee out with a huge clothesline. Regal quickly left the ring after the match clutching onto his WWF European Title belt and Michael Cole and Tazz both felt that Regal could certainly prove himself to be handful in the future on RAW. (RAW 2 - 1 Smackdown)

Next up was another hype video for the “World’s Strongest Man” Mark Henry who is returning to action in 3 weeks time.

Maven got his first real taste of Third Generation Arrogance when his conversation with Steve Blackman was rudely interrupted by Randy Orton and his tag team partner, Donovan Clark. Orton looked Maven up and down before telling Clark that he is just like he expected before attempting to walk off but Maven grabbed hold of Orton's arm and immediately got his attention. Orton demanded an explanation but Maven got back in his face and told Orton that if he's got something to say, why doesn't he just come out and say it to his face. Orton told Maven that he better read a couple of books about wrestling because Orton said he was the wrong person to disrespect. Maven said to Orton that if he wanted his respect, he'd have to earn it causing both Orton and Clark to laugh. Orton and Clark then looked like they were about to start something but Blackman stepped in the way and protected the rookie. Orton told Maven that he wanted his ass in a match, next week at the first edition of the new Smackdown show and Maven accepted! Is Maven crazy?

Smackdown's night wasn't the only thing that was on the slide as Chris Jericho was found lying on the floor unconscious and bloodied just moments away from his match with the Big Red Monster Kane. The WWF Champion The Rock was on the scene and had told people that Kane had to be culprit. One of the security guys barked out orders into a walkie talkie to secure Kane and to review the tapes. This could be serious!

Over a week ago, Shawn Michaels told the wrestling world that, despite the injury of his best friend, he would be returning to the squared circle and he was ready for a fight. Raven, who one week ago beat Rob Van Dam for the 1,2,3, rose to the challenge and took the fight to the Heart Break Kid but was unable to put him away following a Superplex off the top rope. Raven tried to put Michaels away with the Raven Effect but HBK countered before planting Raven with the Tear Drop Suplex but he like Raven was unable to get the pin! HBK hasn't used that move since the early 90s! The match continued with with a lot of back and forth action before Michaels hit Raven with a belly to back suplex before going up top and scoring with the flying elbow. Michaels ended the match as he usually does tuning up the band and planting Raven with the Sweet Chin Music for the win and the crowd were highly delighted with his third victory in a row! But while the crowd were delighted, Raven was less amused with his loss and Raven attacked Michaels from behind with a low blow before he began to choke his opponent on the mat. Thankfully, Mr Perfect quickly came to HBK's aid causing Raven to clear the ring and leave through the crowd. Mr Perfect helped HBK back to his feet and HBK raised Perfect's arm to the applause of the crowd. (Smackdown and RAW are now tied on 2)

Backstage the tension was rising in both locker rooms as we approached our fifth match. Michael Cole announced that the next match pitted Rob Van Dam and Sabu against The Dudley Boyz in a Non Title Hardcore Tag Team Match.

Before we went off to the match, we joined The Rock who was backstage with The Coach. The WWF Champ told The Coach that he had to apologise if he was off but after the horrific attack on his good buddy Chris Jericho, he didn't feel all that with it this evening. But The Rock did have one message for all of his colleagues in the back of WWF fans and that The Rock didn't give a damn about this brand war. The Rock added that the only thing The Rock cares about is himself and it doesn't matter how many matches Smackdown win or how many RAW win because the real brand winner is the brand that has The Rock!

Following a commercial break we return to the ring for some Hardcore Tag Team action between Sabu and RVD and the WWF Tag Team Champions the Dudley Boyz. Rob Van Dam and Sabu get huge pops from the WWF fans as they make there way to the ring but the same can’t be said for the Smackdown representatives who, despite representing the Smackdown brand, are certainly not liked by the Smackdown fans. Michael Cole reminds the WWF fans that all four of these men had history back in ECW and Tazz said that this match will be totally off the hook as all four opponents square off in the ring. RVD and Bubba Ray eventually agree to kick the match off and Bubba Ray wastes no time in talking smack to Van Dam. Bubba goes for a cheap shot and just like that, the match is under way with both wrestlers trading punches and holds for several minutes. Bubba tries to counter a kick from Van Dam gets hit with an enzuigiri for all of his troubles and all hell breaks loose with D-Von and then Sabu and brawl commences first in the ring and then on the outside. It wasn’t long till the weapons were introduced with Bubba getting sent hard into the steel steps before Van Dam brought out a couple of tables from under the ring as well as assorted weaponry and brought it all into the ring while Sabu hit D-Von with an Asai Moonsault on the other side of the ring. Van Dam brought Bubba back to the ring and beat him down on the ground before setting up one table in the middle and resting the other on in the corner with the help of Sabu. Van Dam and Sabu planted Bubba with a Rolling Thunder Springboard combination before going for the pin but D-Von broke up the count just in the nick of time. D-Von hit Rob Van Dam over the back with a steel chair before taking a page out of Sabu’s book throwing the chair into his face getting a big cheer from the crowd. Unfortunately for D-Von his domination wouldn’t last Van Dam quickly countering his Irish whip attempt into the propped up table before sending himself and D-Von through the table with a rolling thunder splash. Sabu torn between his partner and Bubba got hit with a low blow by Bubba who then followed up on Sabu with the Bubba Bomb to number of boos from the WWF audience. Bubba however had no intention of stopping there and smartly went back for the hurt RVD and sent R-V-D through the other table with a Powerbomb. Bubba tried to make the pin but Sabu broke it up and Bubba and Sabu then traded some more punches. Bubba went for the Bubba Cutter but Sabu countered quickly grabbing hold of a chair and throwing it into the face of Bubba before using the chair one more time to plant Bubba’s head on after a springboard tornado DDT to pick up the win! Sabu and RVD beat that WWF Tag Team Champions! What a huge victory! (RAW 3-2 Smackdown)

-It was now main event time, and it was one of the biggest main events in recent memory for Smackdown with both RAW and Smackdown’s reputations lying in the balance! The WWF Champion The Rock came down to a chorus of boos from the fans while The Undertaker received a huge ovation as he made his way down to the ring. Both men exchange words as the referee checks both men who no doubt have a long and violent history including this year’s Main Event of WrestleMania. The Rock and Taker continued a war of words until The Rock told The Undertaker to just bring it and both men kicked the match off with a huge brawl. The Rock took The Undertaker into the corner and unleashed some right hands but the crowd quickly got behind The Undertaker and soon the rolls were reversed. Both men continued to trade right hands back and forth around the ring before the fight spilled to the outside where The Undertaker took control with some more fists. The Rock countered an Undertaker whip and sent The Undertaker into the steel steps before dropping him with a huge forearm smash knocking Taker down to the ground. The Rock brought The Undertaker back into the ring and locked him in the sharpshooter and tried to get the Dead Man to tap out but his attempt was in vain as The Undertaker made it to the ropes with ease. But The Rock never gave up and continued to keep on top of his opponent nearly taking the win with a Samoan drop. The Undertaker managed to turn the tides by reversing an Irish whip attempt from the WWF Champ and planted him with a huge running DDT. The Undertaker decided to then go old School on the Brahma Bull to the applause from the fans but The Undertaker couldn’t put The Rock away. The Undertaker went for the chokeslam on the Champ but The Rock countered the move and planted The Undertaker with a DDT taking both men out of the picture temporarily. But while both men were flat out on the floor, Kane’s pyros exploded in the arena and the Big Red Monster made his way out to the ring much to the surprise of everyone in the audience. Kane was supposed to be incarcerated! The Rock looked on in fear as the Monster approached the ring and Michael Cole announced that he’s just got word from backstage that Kane was released from security guard custody after video evidence had suggested that Kane was not in fact that person who attacked Chris Jericho. It was The Rock! Kane got in the ring and stood face to face with the WWF Champ and both men looked like they were both about to go at it with Heyman screaming in the background as The Undertaker tried to get back to his feet when all of a sudden, the Monster turned and he grabbed hold of the Dead Man instead and chokeslammed him to the mat! What the hell is going on here?!!! Kane stood over the lifeless body of The Undertaker in some sort of trance as Paul Heyman climbed into the ring and he shook the hand of the WWF Champion. The Rock is smiling!! What the hell is going on here? The show ended with Heyman holding up the arms of his client Kane and the WWF Champion the Rock! (Smackdown and Raw end the show with tied scores at 3 all as The Undertaker won the match by DQ)

RESULTS

Shawn Stasiak and Kurt Angle def. Rikishi and Scotty 2 Hotty

Key def. Al Snow

William Regal def. The British Bulldog

Shawn Michaels def. Raven

Rob Van Dam and Sabu def. The Dudley Boyz

The Undertaker def. The Rock via DQ

Edited April 13, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[DaveKOTW]

THE NEW BEGINNING

Raw Preview - March 25, 2002

This week, Raw will begin a new era under the sole control of WWF Co-Owner Jerry Lawler after the World Wrestling Federation split into two separate brands following the inability for neither Co-Owner to co-operate with the other. Tonight Raw emanates from Mobile, Alabama for an action packed of Sports Entertainment.

With only two RAW’s left before Backlash, the first PPV since the Roster Split, the WWF Champion, The Rock, is looking surprisingly confident that no one will take his WWF Championship from him yet there are those that disagree. One man in particular is Chris Jericho who has seemingly been a thorn in the champ’s side ever since he made his return at WrestleMania but last week on Smackdown, The Rock struck back against Jericho removing him from the show so that he could use underhanded tactics against his opponent The Undertaker who The Rock has frequently faced since WrestleMania. Jericho has not been perturbed by The Rock’s actions on Smackdown and wants at shot at The Rock’s WWF Championship. Will Jericho get his shot tonight on Raw?

Last week, Test made his feelings on Smackdown when he told the WWF fans that he was sick about being overlooked calling Jerry Lawler a “liar”. Test felt that he deserved to be properly utilised and demanded that Lawler make good on his promise “or else”. Will Lawler succumb to Test’s threats or will he stand tall?

WWF European Champion William Regal will also be in action tonight when he takes on Bradshaw for the title. Regal has been incredibly efficient in the past few weeks using brass knucks against his opponents to win the matches but can he maintain his fortune now he is a member of the Raw roster?

Find out all this and more on Raw, Monday night at 9/8 CT on TNN.

Edited April 13, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[DavidMarrio]

Bit late with feedback what with the internet playing up so.

-With the draft on Raw you done a good job in getting over the fact that it seems Jerry Lawler keeps one upping Vince McMahon and his reactions were a nice thing to see and the draft you done pretty much a good job with it and there isn't any bad points

-Daffney going over in a squash match was what is probably best for her to build her up and get her over with the crowd. Looking foward to see how this turns out

-Hardys splitting i'm not very happy but now you can do stuff with them in the singles divison so with the negative of this you gain two positives lol

- HBK/Mero got me thinking of the good old WWF Attitude days

- Key is Key for the hardcore division. It's a getting him over and i too remember the good ole days of the Hardcore Divison cause of this. But really Tommy Dreamer and Steve Blackman should of been on Raw so you got more good competition for the title

- Poor Saturn Atleast Angle back in the picture now

For Smackdown:

-The Raw VS Smackdown idea was a good un and made the show feel kinda special. It was also a good idea to have them draw in scores otherwise you would of made a brand look weak when really there isn't a big difference.

- Angle/Stasiak seems an interesting combo against Too Cool. You done a good move having well Rikishi be the factor for Too Cool and the heels keeping Scotty in the ring.

-"Whats That Aboot"... Hmmm i remember Edge saying this when doing his impression of Test at Survivor Series 01 when it was Team WWF VS Team Alliance. Anyway i'm curious as to what Test be doing in the next couple of shows

-Can anyone beat Key for the title... If Charles Wright didn't get involved most of the time than probably but still good angle. Shame Al Snow lost though, WHAT DOES EVERYBODY WANT

-Regal/Bulldog a bit short but tonight it seemed Blackpool used dirty tactics over Manchester in revenge to Manchester getting permission for the big casino over Blackpool

-Ahhh great match between the two former ECW Tag Teams. Again brings back memories

-Raven VS HBK hmmm interesting combo for a match up but nice to see Raven getting used. You know i felt Raven could do big things like i normally tell you on MSN

-Rock/Kane/Heyman that was a nice little shock for me. I wonder what is going on and poor Taker is all i can say. Got a good storyline here just make sure it stays good

Overall i really enjoy your diary and these were two great shows. Cannot wait for some more bud

[DaveKOTW]

A NEW NUMBER ONE CONTENDER FOR THE WWF TITLE

Raw - March 25, 2002

Monday Night Raw kicked off with Jerry Lawler sitting in his office welcoming all the WWF fans to the new era of sports entertainment. Lawler said that Monday Night Raw was the place to be to find all the top talents in the wrestling industry and that he intended to prove that tonight when he puts on the show of a life time topped off with the a huge Main Event match where Test will take on Chris Jericho for a shot at the WWF Championship at WWF Backlash. Lawler said that he hopes we enjoy the show.

Ooh ah ah ah ah!

Raw gets revamped with a new video to the music of“Down with the Sickness” by Disturbed as well as new fireworks, a new set and a new attitude. The new set isn’t too dissimilar from the old one but we get a new logo and a new angled titantron the show getting very much a broken metal make over. JR and Mick Foley welcome us to an “historic night in WWF history” and hyped up both the Main Event between Test and Chris Jericho as well as a WWF Championship Match later in the night between The Rock and his challenger, Chuck Palumbo. That match should be off the hook! (Wait…Tazz is on Smackdown isn’t he?)

Back at ringside, William Regal’s music started up and the WWF European Champion made his way to the ring for his European title defence. Regal was not a popular man with the fans and while he waved at them with the best intentions, or so he led us to believe, the fans only responded with boos. JR quickly reminded us that over the past few weeks, the European Champion had been using brass knucks to take out his opponents and that made, in JR’s eyes, William Regal a poor excuse for a human being.

Bradshaw’s music then hit the arena and the Big Texan made his way down to a small applause from the WWF fans. As Bradshaw made his way down the ramp and into the ring, Mick Foley spoke of how Bradshaw had been trying to keep his career going ever since his long term Tag Team Partner Ron “Faarooq” Simmons went down with an injury that promised to keep him out for at least 6 more months! DAMN!

WWF European Title Match - William Regal © vs. Bradshaw

The match kicked off with Regal trying to catch Bradshaw with a cheap shot but Bradshaw quickly spotted the danger and an exchange of right hands commenced. Bradshaw’s strength advantage over Regal meant that he, despite his time on the mean streets of Blackpool England, was unable to win this fist fight and delivered Bradshaw a thumb to the eye of the Big Texas before taking Bradshaw to the ground with a chop block to the back of the knee. Regal began to bring on the technical offensive planting Bradshaw with a double under hook suplex before following up with a knee to the face. Regal made the cover but Bradshaw got the shoulder up on the two and the match continued, despite Regal’s displeasure.

Regal continued to deliver a technical wrestling clinic planting Bradshaw with a variety of suplexes including a perfectly executed exploder suplex but he was still unable to get the job done and the crowd was starting to get on his back. The European Champion got down to the mat and locked in a Fujiwara armbar on the Texan but Bradshaw managed to fight out of the hold only to get a second thumb to the eye and put in a sleeper hold. But Bradshaw was not done and with the backing of the fans used all of his strength to break the hold. Regal tried to fight off the threat with some right hands but Bradshaw was just too strong and Regal got hit with a fallaway slam. Bradshaw attempted to finish the match off with the clothesline from hell but Regal ducked the clothesline and hit Bradshaw with a double knee strike. Regal quickly took advantage of the strike and locked in the Regal Stretch to make Bradshaw submit and retain his European Title.

Winner: William Regal

We head off to another promotional video. “The World’s Strongest Man” Mark Henry is returning to the World Wrestling Federation and he’s coming back soon!

We return from a commercial break to see Jeff Hardy already in the ring. He is soon joined by his opponent for the night Edge in a match that will surely enable two rising stars to display their talents for Jerry Lawler and the world to see.

Singles Match – Edge vs. Jeff Hardy

The match kicked off with both wrestlers shaking hands in the middle of the ring in a show of good sportsmanship before locking up in the centre of the ring with both men trying to stamp their authority on the match. Edge took Jeff to the corner and delivered some right hands to Jeff but Jeff soon turned the tabled and retaliated in kind. Jeff grabbed hold of Edge and sent him with force into the ropes but missed the clothesline follow up and paying the price with a big spear from Edge. Edge went for the pin but Jeff Hardy somehow managed to kick out on the two and the match had to continue.

Edge wasted no time and quickly made his way up to the top rope connected almost immediately with a drop kick. Edge went for another cover but Jeff kicked out again. Edge knew he had to just keep plugging away. But neither man was going to be able to finish this match tonight! As soon as Edge got to his feet, the Glass Shattered in the arena and Stone Cold Steve Austin appeared at the entrance way and he didn’t look at all happy despite the huge cheers from the crowd. Austin quickly got into the ring and he went face to face with Edge who had no idea what was going on. Austin and Edge traded some words and Austin grinned. Austin suggested that Edge continue with his match up but just when Edge thought it was safe, Austin clobbered him from the back sending him to the ground and Austin stomped the Canadian right out of the ring. Jeff Hardy was next up and he got hit with a huge Stunner from the Rattlesnake, no one in the arena able to grasp just what was going on! Stone Cold quickly made his way out of the ring and went back to Edge and sent attacking him once more from behind before dropping him with the second stunner of the night. What the hell is going on here?

Winner – No Contest

After a short commercial break, we returned to the ring where Stone Cold was waiting with the microphone. The crowd were now incredible agitated, some even booing but Austin looked like he had something else on his mind. Austin said that at WrestleMania, something amazing happened. Austin said that somehow, Stone Cold Steve Austin actually was convincingly beaten by Kane at WrestleMania. Austin said he thought and he thought about what happened and he still couldn’t quite understand it. He is a Man’s Man! He was a Champion of Champions yet somehow, Kane managed to get the job done. But Stone Cold said he figured out what the problem was. He said that the reason that he lost the match was because he was going soft and the reason he had lost his edge was because of the WWF fans and that just pisses him off. But Stone Cold said that everything is going to change because from this point on, he no longer gives a damn what any of the people think. Stone Cold said that he is a Champion and Champions should have title belts and the Rattlesnake recommends that every single Champion on RAW better watch their back because that’s the bottom line and STONE COLD SAID SO! What?

Next up is the WWF Champion the Rock who is only moments away from his first WWF Title defence on the Raw brand taking on former WCW Superstar Chuck Palumbo. The Coach is the Rock’s interviewer tonight and The Rock quickly commented on the fact that despite the Raw brand claiming to have the top talent, they still have The Coach. The Rock said that he was surprised to see who his opponent was tonight and he felt that everyone in the world knew that Chuck Palumbo doesn’t hold a candle to him and that he wouldn’t stand a chance. The Rock did guaran-damn-tee that when he gets his real number one contender whether it be Canadian A or Canadian B, The Rock is going to do what he does best and that is that he is going to whoop their candyasses. The Rock vs. Chuck Palumbo for the WWF Championship is next!

WWF Championship Match – The Rock © vs. Chuck Palumbo

The match kicked off with both men standing face to face only to have the Champ laugh in the face of his challenger. But Chuck wasn’t in the mood for humour and quickly knocked the Rock back with some huge right hands before whipping him hard into the ropes and dropping him with a big clothesline to a big reaction from the audience. Palumbo quickly followed up with a side slam and went for the cover but The Rock kicked out on the two. Chuck got back to his feet at The Rock with a backbreaker before going for the cover once more but The Rock kicked out again. Palumbo planted The Rock with a body slam before taking it to the top rope and went for an elbow drop but The Rock managed to get out of the way and Chuck crashed into the mat. The Rock looked to quickly capitalise on the slip and hit Palumbo with a DDT but only managed a two count. The Rock, unhappy not to have the match ended there went for a second cover attempt but Palumbo kicked out that as he did with the third cover attempt!

The Rock still couldn’t believe that the match wasn’t over and got back to his feet arguing with the referee but the referee told him to deal with it and that he only got the two. The Rock quickly turned his attention back to Palumbo and signalled for the Rockbottom but Palumbo fought out of the side slam with some elbows and the two men began to exchange some punches. Palumbo dropped The Rock with multiple clotheslines before dropping The Rock with a big back body drop that got the crowd going once more. Palumbo quickly followed with a big sidewalk slam that got the crowd dreaming of a title upset but it wasn’t to be! Palumbo tried to connect with the Jungle Kick but the only thing he found was the ropes as The Rock spotted the attack. The Rock grabbed Chuck from behind and hit him with a belly to back suplex before the ill tempered Champion went for Rockbottom once more, this time hitting the finishing move. He quickly makes the cover and gets the three count! After the bell sounds, The Rock gets back to his feet and angrily climbs up the turnbuckle raising his WWF Title to the crowd who boo him.

Winner: The Rock

After a quick infomercial from one of our sponsors, we head off to the announce table where JR told us that there had been an incident backstage during the WWF Title Match. We then jump back in time to earlier in the night to the backstage area. We are told that it all started while Mr Perfect was chatting away with Scotty 2 Hotty when Raven appeared out of no where and attacking Mr Perfect from behind with a steel chair. Raven yelled down at the bloodied Mr Perfect that he will stop at nothing till his Vengeance has been fulfilled before doing his crucifix pose and disappearing into the background while Scotty 2 Hotty tried to find some help. Mick Foley informed the fans that Mr Perfect apparently needed some stitches for the laceration on the back of his head but more importantly, has responded to Raven’s attacks by challenging him to a match at Backlash. What a huge match that could be!

Six Man Intergender Tag Team Match: Rob Van Dam, Sabu and Trish Stratus vs. Ron Waterman, X-Pac and Daffney Unger

Despite all six competitors raring to get the match started, it was the two ladies that kicked the match off with Trish spearing Daffney to the crowd unloading multiple right handed shots to the face of the Women's Champion. Trish totally dominated Daffney in the early goings planting her with move after the move before Ron Waterman had seen enough and injected himself into the match grabbing Trish and slamming her to the mat following a bulldog on Daffney. Waterman had sadistic ideas on his mind as he held Trish in his hand but Van Dam quickly broke up the danger with a flying thrust kick allowing Trish to tag out to Sabu who immediately went for Waterman. Sabu brought everything he had to Waterman with a multitude of kicks and punches sending Waterman backwards but Waterman managed to regain control with a clothesline following an Irish whip attempt. X-Pac got the tag in and immediately went to work on Sabu with some quick kicks before taking Sabu to the mat with his signature spinning heel kick. The cocky X-Pac raised his arms to the crowd looking for some crowd approval but all the crowd did was break out into an "X-Pac Sucks" chant. X-Pac took too long on making the cover and only got the 2 as a result and he had to bring Waterman back into the fold.

Waterman immediately continued where X-Pac left off and keeping Sabu in their half of the ring with some huge forearms to the back of Sabu. Waterman then picked Sabu off the mat and locked him in the bearhug submission move with the intention of squeezing the life out of his competitor but Sabu had the fans on his side and that was enough for him to fight on. Sabu first tried to power his way but when this option proved useless, Sabu did the only thing he could and that was to bite the nose of Waterman. The referee immediately called for the bell and disqualified Sabu, RVD and Trish for the illegal offence but that didn't stop the brawl from going on as all six opponents went at it in the centre of the ring. It wasn't long before Sabu and Van Dam cleared X-Pac and Waterman from the ring before both doing suicide planchas in unison onto their opponents leaving Trish and Daffney alone in the ring. Daffney swung off and missed with a clothesline but Trish didn't miss with the Lou Thez Press. Meanwhile on the outside, RVD and Sabu brought out the weapons and Sabu didn't take long to toss the first chair into the face of X-Pac while Van Dam used the drop toe hold manoeuvre to send Ron Waterman face first into the steel steps. Inside the ring, Trish didn't take long to finish Daffney off with the chick kick while on the outside, Sabu bodyslammed X-Pac to the floor to which RVD followed up with some rolling thunder. Waterman was next to eat chair Sabu tossing the same chair he used on X-Pac straight into the face of Waterman before Sabu picked up a second chair and Van Dam hit Waterman with the Van Daminator. RVD and Sabu eventually join Trish back in the ring and they all raise their arms to the cheers of the crowd. Waterman, X-Pac and Daffney may have won the match but it looks like RVD, Sabu and Trish have won the war here tonight!

Winners: Ron Waterman, X-Pac and Daffney Unger

After the final commercial break, Test makes his way down to the ring for the Main Event and this match decides who the number one contender for the WWF Championship is. Test gets heavily booed from the audience who haven’t been impressed the type of guy Test is turning into despite his impressive performances against The Undertaker and The British Bulldog. Next up was Chris Jericho who, just 2 weeks ago, screwed cost Vince McMahon his WrestleMania match which allowed Jerry Lawler to keep his share of the company and split the World Wrestling Federation into two separate brands. Jericho gets into the ring and salutes the audience who are firmly behind Jericho in this huge match up.

#1 Contenders Match for the WWF Title – Chris Jericho vs. Test

The match started with both men going at it in the centre of the ring. Jericho chopped away on Test sending him straight to the corner before bashing his head on the turnbuckle and delivering some more chops. Jericho then plants Test with a standing dropkick and quickly gets down for the cover but only gets the two. Jericho doesn’t give Test a second to recover bringing him back to his feet and hitting him with some stiff chops. Jericho pulls the arm of Test and sends him into the ropes and goes for a back body drop but Test grabs the ropes, kicks Jericho in the face and then clotheslines him to the ground. Test delivers Jericho with a swinging neckbreaker before making a cover but he only gets the two. Test thought he had the match won.

Test propped Jericho up in the corner and hit him with a huge running splash knocking the lights out of the fan favourite before beating him in the corner with some more right hands. Test decided to send him into the opposite corner and splash him once again taking a page out of the book of the Undertaker before hitting Y2J with a full nelson slam and made yet another pin fall attempt but still the two. Test begins to lose him temper and shouts at the referee but the referee sticks by his judgement and Test has to continue. Test went for the Big Boot on Jericho but Jericho managed to get out of the way and Test just avoided the ropes but couldn’t avoid more fists from Jericho followed by a Spinning Heel Kick. Jericho decided to take it to the top rope to the delight of the audience and went for a missile drop kick but Test avoided the attack but this didn’t stop Jericho for long who quickly took his feet from under him and locked in the walls of Jericho. Test looks in deep trouble but somehow just manages to get to the bottom rope in the nick of time and Jericho is forced to break up the hold. Jericho however refuses to let go of the hold at first and the referee had to pull him off allowing Test some time to recover but Test doesn’t take advantage of the situation missing a clothesline and Jericho takes Test to the mat with a bulldog before hitting the Lionsault for three! Jericho is the new Number One Contender for the WWF Championship.

Winner: Chris Jericho

After the bell rings, Jericho immediately goes to the outside and begins to celebrate with some fans but his celebration is cut short by the sound of The Rock’s entrance music. The WWF Champion and the Number One Contender lock eyes and exchange some words. In just 13 days, The Rock will go one on one with Chris Jericho for the WWF Championship at Backlash. Will we see a new WWF Champion?

--

Author's Note

Hope you like the new layout. I'm currently trying very hard to get a layout that actually gives you guys some half decent play by play without being overly long and still having all the segments in them. I hope I have somewhat achieved this with this latest format but I'd love to hear from and what you think about it. I am also going to be trying a few new things in the next few shows to get you guys more involved in the diary and provide you with some different bits and pieces to make the whole thing a bit more exciting than just continuous rolls of storyline. I'm also going to start adding segment and match scores to the results so you can see how bad/good everything is going. This week's RAW score was a lowly 73. Thanks for reading guys!

Edited April 20, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[DaveKOTW]

WRESTLING NEWS

Hello all and welcome to the latest wrestling scoop direct to your door step. It's been a while since our last major update and the boy are things changing!

- Reports backstage is that the World Wrestling Federation are generally not satisfied with the current quality of the shows. A source had leaked that while Vince McMahon had been one of the biggest supporters of the Roster split, it is thought that he, as is many others, is not particularly happy about the way the talent has been split with Raw looking to be by far the more dominant brand of the two. Most people backstage currently expect to see a fair amount of talent get unexpected pushes as well as the arrival of much needed new talent in the next few months.

- Sabu is currently getting a lot of heat off some of the wrestlers in the Raw locker room as they felt that not only was his 30 day punishment not severe enough considering his behaviour backstage but he also seems to be getting a push. Many people believe that the main reason that Sabu still has a job was down to Rob Van Dam who stuck in his corner while others were happy to see the back of him. One friend of RVD felt that Van Dam could severely damage his chances with the WWF if he tries to protect Sabu too much and hopes that if Sabu was to get into trouble again in the future, RVD would detach himself from it.

- Chris Benoit is reportedly doing extremely well following his major surgery last year and is expected to return to the WWF around July/August. Chris Benoit is thought to be extremely excited about returning to action and has insisted he has no preference on a brand. It is most likely that when Benoit returns, he will head off to Smackdown as they desperately need talent of that like of Benoit in it's current state.

- WWF Backlash is going to be a cross brand PPV featuring both Raw and Smackdown Superstars with the Main Event being The Rock vs. Chris Jericho for the WWF Championship. There has been no comment as to what part the Smackdown Main Eventers will play on the show but it is more than likely that Smackdown Superstars, The Undertaker, Kane, Kurt Angle and Shawn Michaels will be on the show.

Raw Brand News

- Test is reported to be extremely happy about being considered as a Raw Main Eventer especially since the Raw brand is considered to be the top brand of the two. Many felt that Test's confidence was severely knocked after The Undertaker refused to put him over at No Way Out but people now feel that is only a matter of time before Test is properly in the WWF title race.

- Chuck Palumbo was commended following his WWF title match with The Rock. While many doubted that Chuck would ever have the potential to be in a match of that calibre, Palumbo certainly held his own in the match and the current buzz backstage is that once Palumbo properly learns the WWF way of things and works on his mic skills some more, he might be able to go all the way to the top.

- Many backstage were glad to see Stone Cold's attitude return to show on this week's edition after many felt that Stone Cold had been going weak through and after the Invasion. But while many on the roster are happy with Austin's latest change, Stone Cold has been reportedly miserable backstage. While the reasons behind this are uncertain, some have suggested that Austin is finally starting to feel all the injuries he's had over the years and that it won't be too long before the Rattlesnake has to hang up his boots.

- Bradshaw was supposedly very unhappy about his low card status and has supposedly been telling friends backstage that he feels that he'll never get anywhere in the company while he's continually used as a fall guy for other talent and has openly commented that if his contract was not so length, he might try his luck in another federation. Bradshaw was scheduled to begin a feud with Hugh Morrus in the next few months but this plan was scrapped after Morrus was released from the company.

- Chavo Guerrero and Billy Kidman look likely to be teaming up in the near future after impressing onlookers in a dark match before Raw against OVW superstars Air Raid (Styles and Paris). One other thing to note is that Chavo Guerrero used the Frog Splash as his finisher last night which was previously used by his Uncle, Eddie Guerrero, during his tenure with the World Wrestling Federation.

Smackdown Brand News

- The Smackdown brand is thought to be under the watchful eye of many people under the WWF.com regarding fears that the brand doesn't have enough depth. One particular concern is the midcard level of the roster which is practically empty although some have questioned this means that the Cruiserweights will play a bigger role on Smackdown?

- Taiyo has been removed from the Smackdown Roster page on WWF.com. While there has been no news as of yet as to why he has been removed, many feel that he has no way near the expected impact he was meant to have in the World Wrestling Federation and it may not be long before he joins Hugh Morrus in the released section

- Many people have also been concerned about the scheduled match between Maven and Randy Orton on this week's episode of Smackdown. While it is no secret that Randy Orton is still relatively green, he is in no way as green as Maven who, despite huge amibition, is no where near competent enough as of yet to be a full time member of the Smackdown Roster. It will be interesting to see how Maven gets on against Orton on the show!

- The Undertaker is apparently very happy that he is on Smackdown Brand. While some superstars (Kurt Angle is believed to be one) have privately complained about being put on the show that doesn't air live, The Undertaker is thought to be of the opinion that the Smackdown brand would allow Wrestlers to relax more and enjoy themselves while Raw can be too tense at times. Rumours however have recently been a foot that with there now being two seperate brands, the WWF would look to put Smackdown Live in the future but obviously these are only suggestions.

Edited April 19, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[DaveKOTW]

It was just like any other day for Vince McMahon. Just like always, Vince had his usual 6am wake up call from the luxury hotel he was staying at in Memphis, Tennessee before the most attractive looking hotel clerk brought him his egg whites and grapefruit juice just as he requested. But Vince wasn't feeling particularly enthusiastic today and as he looked in the mirror, he realised that, just like everyone else, he was getting old.

Vince: "Pull yourself together! You're a McMahon"

But with all his words, Vince knew that today was going to be a tough day. After all, tonight was the night that WWF Smackdown made it's big brand debut and Vince knew that it had to be one hell of a spectacle.

Vince: "It's time to get the show on the road..."

Vince was aware that rumours were flooding the wrestling websites and while he would have never admitted it to anyone who wasn't close to him, Vince began to have concerns about the roster split. After all, while the WWF would never admit to this, Raw had certainly been delt the better hand in terms of roster and that certainly did not make the impact that it was expected to on Monday Night. Vince continued to look at himself in the mirror, prodding and pulling in different places, fooling himself into believing that youth was still on his side. Vince often told himself that despite being married, he could have any woman in the world if he wanted to and that was probably true although Vince would probably dispute the reasons for their attraction.

Vince continued to watch himself like a hawk in the mirror until his mobile phone broke his concentration. While you may think that it would be outrageous for someone to call Vince at such hour, anyone in the business knew that Vince woke early and it was customery for Vince to get calls just after 6am. Vince grasped the phone and flipped it open - it was Jerry Lawler. Lawler had apparently been trying to contact Vince ever since last night to see if he was enjoying his suite. Lawler, the so called King of Memphis (at least in the wrestling world) had recommended this hotel to Vince for many years but this was the first time he had ever tried it. It certainly was "fit for a King".

Jerry Lawler wasn't on the phone for long. He spoke of his appreciation for giving him this opportunity to do something as major as this at this stage of his career and Lawler promised to do his best with such a prominent on-screen role and Vince had no doubt that he would. The question that remained however is whether the fans would like it. After the call, Vince quickly finished the remainder of his grapefruit juice before convening to the extravagent marble bath and shower room where he washed and prepped himself before getting his business face on.

*Knock Knock*

The door rattled. Vince couldn't find his tie anywhere!

Vince: "Who is it?"

Shane: "Hey Dad its Me! Look we've got a limo down stairs. We've gotta head off to the Pyramid arena right now. We've got things to discuss!"

Vince: "Alright Shane, gimme a minute!"

Shane: "We've gotta go now!"

Vince: "I SAID GIMME A DAMN MINUTE!"

Shane: "Alright Dad, I'm sorry! Look Stephanie and Paul are downstairs in the lobby. We'll meet you there."

Vince: "See you in a second"

Shane: "Oh and Dad....Tonight is going to be Great...."

Vince didn't answer. Shane knew immediately that something wasn't right but didn't dare ask...at least now. As for Vince, he just didn't have time for speculation. Vince knew there was a lot to sort out in a short period of time and tonight had to be spot on. Vince knew that the company had to stay vigilant. Just because there was no major competition anymore didn't mean that it would be like this forever and Vince knew there were people out there who would like nothing more than to stick it to him. After all, in the wrestling business, you can NEVER say never.

Edited April 20, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[DaveKOTW]

Eight Contenders…One World Heavyweight Champion

Smackdown Preview - March 28, 2002

Smackdown owner Vince McMahon made a huge announcement today regarding the future of the Smackdown Main Event by bringing in a new title to headline the Smackdown brand – the World Heavyweight Championship. “With Raw now in complete control of the WWF Title, Smackdown needed its own belt to identify who exactly is the premier wrestler on the Smackdown roster. The World Heavyweight Championship does just that”. Mr McMahon guaranteed that whoever wins the World Heavyweight Championship would have to be “pretty damn special” because he would have to go through seven other guys to get it. The first round will commence tonight with the second round commencing the following week. The final two competitors would then battle it out at Backlash to decide who will be crowned champion.

The Eight Competitors are:

The Undertaker (3 x WWF Champion)

Kane (1 x WWF Champion)

Shawn Michaels (3 x WWF Champion)

Kurt Angle (2 x WWF Champion, 1 x WCW Champion)

Diamond Dallas Page (3 x WCW Champion)

Shawn Stasiak (Current WWF Intercontinental Champion)

The British Bulldog (1 x WWF Intercontinental Champion)

Matt Hardy (5 x WWF Tag Team Champion)

All the matches will be drawn at random which means, anyone could meet anyone.

WWF Tough Enough Winner Maven will also be in action tonight when he takes on Randy Orton in a Singles Match following a war of words between the two last week on Smackdown and third generation wrestler Randy Orton has vowed to teach Maven a lesson. Could, the rookie, Maven shock the world tonight and defeat Orton?

Find out Thursday night at 9/8 CT on Smackdown on UPN

Edited April 20, 2007 by DaveKOTW

[slain]

RAW

-William Regal Def. Bradshaw-I'm not surprised to see Regal go over here, but I hate Bradshaw being jobbed out, he really needs a push of some sort

-Mark Henry Returns- I can't wait for Henry to come back, I want to see what you can do with him, he's always been a favorite of mine

-Edge Vs. Jeff Hardy- I was very surprised to see Austin interfere in this match. I really hope that this leads to an eventual Edge Vs. Steve Austin fued

-The Rock Def. Chuck Palumbo- The Rock winning was very obvious, Palumbo looked good here, and hopefully he gets a push soon

-Ron Waterman, X-Pac, Daffney Unger Def. Sabu, Rob Van Dam, Trish Stratus- I was very surprised to see the heels go over in this match. I've never really liked Waterman, and I'm not very sure if I want to like Unger.

-Chris Jericho Def. Test- Even though I knew it would happen, it was a great match, and I hope Jericho gets the title soon. Test's push seems to be going well too (Y)

-New Layout- I'm loving the new layout right now, it's much easier to read than your other shows. Hopefully you keep it like this.

Vince McMahon Segment

-I think that you captured Vince really well in this segment(or whatever it should be called)

-I chuckled at Vince drinking grapefruit juice, I'm wondering if it was intended or not

-Shane McMahon didn't seem right to me for some reason, maybe if it were Stephanie talking it would have been better?

-Overall, good segment(Or, whatever) (Y)

Smackdown! should be a great show, hopefully we seem some good pairings in this tournament. I'm hoping Orton Vs. Maven will be a good match, I've always marked for both guys.

Keep up the great work, this has lived up to be my favorite diary in the Dome (Y)