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April 29th
On this day in history in ....
1960 - Fomer WWF Young Stallion and member of the Four Horsemen Paul Roma is born in Kensington, NY.
1995 - The largest crowd to attend a professional wrestling event ever assembles in Pyongyang, North Korea for the second New Japan Pro Wrestling event held in Pyongyang Stadium as part of the World Peace Festival. The show drew a crowd of 190,000, shattering the record of 150,000 from the previous day. The show was attended by Muhammad Ali, and pictures of Ali, Antonio Inoki and Ric Flair were published in all the major Korean and Japanese newspapers. Select matches from the two days were later aired in the U.S. as a WCW PPV special. Here are the results from the show:
- Hiro Saito defeated Yuji Nagata.
- Black Cat defeated El Samurai.
- Wild Pegasus (Chris Benoit) defeated 2 Cold Scorpio.
- Scott Norton & Masahiro Chono defeated Akira Nogami & Takayuki Iizuka.
- Road Warrior Hawk defeated Tadao Yasuda.
- Rick & Scott Steiner defeated Hiroshi Hase & Kensuke Sasaki when Scott pinned Hase after a Steiner Screwdriver.
- Akira Hokuto defeated Bull Nakano.
- In their first and only meeting, Antonio Inoki defeated Ric Flair with an enzugiri
1996 - Shinya Hashimoto defeats Nobuhiko Takada for the IWGP Heavyweight Title in Tokyo, Japan to start his third reign with the title. The match was the main event of New Japan Pro Wrestling's "Battle Formation" show, drawing 65,000 fans to the Tokyo Dome. This was the culmination of the New Japan vs. UWF storyline that resulted in some of the biggest gates in the history of New Japan. Here are the results of the show:
- Yuji Nagata & Tokimitsu Ishizawa defeated Shinjiro Ohtani & Koji Kanemoto when Nagata pinned Kanemoto.
- Riki Choshu, Takashi Iizuka, Osamu Nishimura & Satoshi Kojima defeated Shiro Koshinaka, Kuniaki Kobayashi, Tatsutoshi Goto & Akira Nogami when Choshu pinned Nogami.
- Great Sasuke defeated Jushin Liger to win the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Title.
- Randy Savage defeated Hiroyoshi Tenzan.
- Masahiro Chono defeated Lex Luger.
- The Road Warriors (Hawk & Animal) & Power Warrior (Kensuke Sasaki) defeated Rick Steiner, Scott Steiner & Scott Norton when Animal pinned Rick.
- The Great Muta defeated Jinsei Shinzaki (Hakushi).
- Genichiro Tenryu defeated Tatsumi Fujinami.
- Shinya Hashimoto defeated Nobuhiko Takada via submission to win the IWGP Heavyweight Title.
1998 - The first annual Brian Pillman Memorial event, featuring talent from all major pro wrestling companies helping to raise money for Pillman's family following his death in October 1997 was held in Norwood, Ohio at the Norwood Middle School. Promoted by Les Thatcher's HWA, the event was hosted by WWF's Steve Austin and Sunny, featuring the following results, as well as signings and auctions designed to raise money. The show raised $23,500.
1.Nick Dinsmore defeated Trailer Park Trash
2 Reno Riggins & Steve Dunn defeated Brian Taylor & The Bounty Hunter
3 Flash Flanagan defeated Bull Pain
4 Chip Fairway & Shark Boy defeated Sean Casey & Terik The Great
5 In a match sent by ECW, Al Snow defeated Chris Candido
6. In a match sent by WCW, Chris Benoit defeated Chris Jericho
The Memorial would become an annual event, running through 2001.
1999 - ECW ran Palmetto, FL with the following results:
Danny Doring & Roadkill defeated the Cuban Assassin & Ricky Santana
Nova defeated Buck Quartermaine
Yoshihiro Tajiri defeated Little Guido
El Mosco defeated Super Crazy
Jerry Lynn defeated Justin Credible
ECW World Tag Team Champions Buh Buh Ray & D-Von Dudley defeated Spike Dudley & Balls Mahoney
Tommy Dreamer defeated Lance Storm
1999 - UPN broadcast a special titled WWE Smackdown!, which doubled as a pilot for a second weekly two hour series for WWF. Scoring a 5.8 rating, the show would go to series in August 1999 and Smackdown has run consecutively since, eventually moving to the CW Network, MyNetworkTV and finally onto cable television on SyFy. The show being picked up as a series would eventually become a factor in WWF Creative team members Vince Russo and Ed Ferrara leaving the company as they would effectively see their workload doubled. Instead, they bolted for WCW in October 1999.
Here is the original report from the special, courtesy of Wrestling Lariat Newsletter #183:
Chris Woodward reporting. … Get ready for the “Thursday Night Wars.” Well, not yet, but after watching WWF “Smackdown” (carried on most UPN stations opposite Thunder) it wouldn’t surprise me in the least.
The show opened with a recap of the Rock-Shane and Vince-UT-Austin angles from RAW.
Jim Cornette and Michael Cole handled commentary, and called the show in a manor that seemed aim at first time or casual wrestling fans.
Vince and Stephanie McMahon came to ring (with several cops). A slight “a*@hole” chant started up, and Vince agreed with it. He did a very humble promo, and thanked Ken Shamrock, Big Show and Steve Austin (just mentioning the name got a pop) for saving his daughter. Stephanie McMahon then took the mic, describing what she went through (there was a slight pop when she mentioned that she was stripped of her clothes, which is kind of sick), and thanking Steve Austin and hoping the Undertaker rotted in hell. McMahon was about to make a promise to Austin, when Shane McMahon interrupted the proceedings with the Corporation. Shane said that he would have saved her if she was in any real danger. He then started ripping on his dad, but Vince was stopped by the Corporation. Vince and Stephanie left, and Shane cut a promo, saying that Austin and The Rock were on the top of his hit list, and since they hated each other, they would be forced to team. He asked for volunteers for opponents, and picked Triple H. Shane asked for any “other takers?” The lights went out, and the Undertaker appeared on the Titantron, and talked of how he would get revenge for Austin interrupting his ceremony. So it’s Rock & Austin vs. UT & HHH in the main event.
They showed Jeff Jarrett and Debra looking for Owen Hart in the back, then showed Owen (in Blue Blazer attire) walking down another hall, babbling about the WWF needing a superhero. Val Venis came to the ring, followed by Jarrett, who said he didn’t know where Owen was, then the Blazer jumped Venis from behind and the match began. Cornette and Cole both openly talked about the Blazer being Owen Hart. Venis was taking control when Debra distracted him. Blazer tried to take advantage, but Venis rolled him up. The ref was still dealing with Debra, allowing Jarrett to come in for a kick to the groin, and a win for the Blazer. Post match, Nicole Bass came out, and Val headed for the hills. Jarrett, Blazer and Debra were celebrating when the Godfather came out. He hit the ring, cleaned house and was motioning at Debra, but Jarrett and Blazer came back in and left him laid out in the ring.
They showed the Rock in the locker room, talking about making Austin, UT and HHH famous tonight, as they went to commercial.
Kevin Kelly interviewed the Blue Blazer, who said the WWF was deplorable and needed a superhero. He told all the little Blazers to say their prayers, eat their vitamins, and drink their milk.
Big Show came out to fight Test. Test got an erly advantage pounding Big Show against the ropes, as the Big Bossman came out. The Artist formerly known as Paul Wight then reversed an Irish whip and hit a dropkick, which is damn impressive for someone that big. One chokeslam later, it was over. Bossman came in the ring, but Big Show ran him off. Once he left, Bossman crept back in and attacked Test, but the big man came back out and ran off Bossman again. ... The Rock came out, and got a huge ovation. He said he would take all three men out if he had to. Austin came out, crowd exploded, and as Austin started ripping on the Rock, the Corporation music hit, and Shane came out, saying that Austin and Rock couldn’t get along. he said his plan was getting “bigger and better” and then the Undertaker came out, with the Corporation and the Ministry, now known collectively as the “Corporate Ministry.”
There was a WCW commercial during the break.
Kevin Kelly interviewed X-Pac and Kane about what happened on Monday, and X-Pac said if Kane wanted things unpredictable, that’s how it would be.
Droz (with Prince Albert) took on D-Lo Brown (with Ivory). D-Lo looked real good here. He hit Sky High, but as he went to the top, Prince Albert shoved him off. Droz then went to whip him into Albert, but D-Lo reversed it, sending both men to the floor, when they got up, D-Lo scored with a pescado. D-Lo threw Droz in, slammed him, went to the top, but this time, Albert came in the ring and press slammed him, ending the match on a DQ. Prince Albert went for his piercing equipment as Ivory ran to the back. They were about to pierce his tongue, when out from the back came....THE RETURN OF SEXUAL CHOCOLATE!!! That’s right, Mark Henry came in and cleaned house, getting a huge pop.
They showed a vignette of Sable’s TV and magazine appearances
Interview with the New Age Outlaws, with Road Dogg talking about friendship, and Billy Gunn saying there are no friends when a title is at stake.
They had Kane & X-Pac vs. the Outlaws, but Billy Gunn would not partake in the normal pre-match introduction. Good match. A four way brawl at the end saw Billy Gunn pound X-Pac on the ropes, Road Dogg try to stop him, and Gunn shove him off. Gunn lifted X-Pac for a press slam, but Kane hit Road Dogg into Gunn’s knee, causing X-Pac to land on top for the pin.
They cut to the back and showed Austin putting his knee brace on as they went to break.
They replayed the finish of the last match, then showed the Outlaws arguing in the back, which had to be broken up by officials.
Dok Hendrix interviewed the Brood, who spoke for the first time (except Christian). The interview came off weak, and confusing. Dok then said that it was all just a gimmick, and they wanted attention. Gangrel said Dok was confused and called him “Michael” as the lights went out and the Brood attacked him. Cornette pointed out that Dok was formerly Michael P.S. Hayes of the Fabulous Freebirds as he suffered a bloodbath. When the lights came up, Dok looked pretty mad. If this brings back Michael Hayes, I’m all for it. Anyone that knows me, knows I’m a Badstreet U.S.A. mark.
They showed Billy Gunn storming the hallways looking for X-Pac as they went to break.
Ken Shamrock was interviewed and promised to break both Bradshaw’s legs, both his arms, and then beat the crap out of him.
They went right to the streetfight, and as Bradshaw came down the ramp with a baseball bat, Shamrock, in streetclothes, jumped him from behind. The bat did get involved, and eventually Shamrock choked him out, the referee brigade came out, and Shamrock released the hold and went nuts, beating up Sgt. Slaughter with the bat.
They interviewed Mankind in a boiler room, and Mick gave another classic, explaining to everyone who he was. Billy Gunn could be heard in the background looking for X-Pac, and Mankind called him a whiner.
They came back from break to show the Corporate Ministry meeting together.
Big Bossman came out for his match with Mankind. Bossman was quickly DDT’d and Socko came out, but Bossman left. Test came out and threw him back in. Bossman tried to leave again, but the Big Show came out, and pressed Bossman over the top rope into the ring. Bossman got caught with Socko and submitted. Big Show, Test and Mankind left separately, as Cornette and Cole speculated on a new alliance.
Billy Gunn attacked X-Pac in the locker room, but Kane threw him off.
They showed Rock and Austin walking down separate hallways for the main event as they went to break. ... Another WCW commercial aired.
Main event time. HHH came out with Chyna and the Mean Street Posse, then the Undertaker came out with Shane and Paul Bearer. The Rock came out next and was double-teamed as Austin came out. After the brawl settled down, it settled into a tag match, and Austin and Rock actually made a tag and were working together. After a few minutes it broke down again as Rock tried for Rock Bottom on UT. The Corporate Ministry joined in, but were run off by Test, Shamrock and Big Show. It nded up with Rock and HHH fighting out of the ring and into the crowd as Undertaker chokeslammed Austin in the ring. Shane slid a chair in, and Vince McMahon ran out and punched out his son, to a big ovation. Vince went in the ring and tried to stop Taker from hitting Austin with the chair. Vince ended up getting whacked with it instead. Undertaker stood over Vince, allowing Austin to recover and hit a stunner to a huge pop. Shane jumped on top of his unconscious dad and punched him. He looked up to get the double bird from Austin, and Shane was then stunned. The crowd was ballistic at this point. They replayed Vince getting hit with the chair as Austin celebrated. He poured beer on McMahon, who started to awaken as the show ended with Austin drinking a few cold ones.
1999 - Opposite the WWF Smackdown special, WCW broadcast Thunder. Quigley filed the following TV repot for the Wrestling Lariat:
WCW Thunder on 4/29 was live from State College, Pa. The showed opened with a recap of the Ric Flair mental health saga of the last few weeks.
The first match saw Booker T defend the TV Title against Curt Hennig. It was a back and forth match that saw Hennig dominate the latter portion of the match. However, Booker gained control with power moves and was about to hit the Harlem Hangover to finish off Hennig. Stevie Ray then ran in and hit Hennig with the Slapjack to cause Booker to be Disqualified. Booker saw Stevie do this and wasn’t sure how to react.
Hak with Chastity came out for an interview. Hak said he was the king of extreme. He wanted to call someone out, but didn’t know who. So he let Chastity pick his opponent, Kevin Nash.
Rick Steiner confronted Booker T in the back. He said Booker was in cahoots with Stevie Ray all along and attacked him.
Buff Bagwell came out for an interview dressed up as Scott Steiner. He did a very funny monologue that mocked Steiner.
Jerry Flynn then took on Stevie Ray. The Black & White accompanied Stevie to the ring. It was a poor match that saw Flynn try to fight off the rest of the NWO, but Stevie was able to hit the Slapjack on Flynn for the pin.
Hak then took on Kevin Nash. Hak put a table & a ladder in the ring before the match started. Nash dominated the early portion of the match and I thought it would be a total squash. However, Hak got a ton of offense with Nash taking several cane shots, bumps with the ladder & table. The finish saw Nash get the fire extinguisher away from Chastity & spray Hak with it. Nash then hit the blinded Hak with a powerbomb through a table for the win. It was a real good match, with the crod popping big time for the win.
Mean Gene then interviewed Bam Bam Bigelow. Bigelow said that he grew up with DDP at the Jersey shore. He said they made a pact that they would look out for each other & Bigelow challenged DDP to a hardcore match for later this evening.
The next match saw Meng take on Bill Goldberg. Meng was given a good amount of offense, but as you may have guessed, Goldberg hit the spear & jackhammer for the pin.
DDP was then interviewed by Mean Gene. DDP thanked Jody Hamilton, Jake Roberts & Dusty Rhodes for helping him get where he is today. He agreed to defend the title against Bigelow tonight.
The next match saw Disciple take on Randy Savage, who was accompanied by Gorgeous George, Mona & Madusa. The finish saw Madusa, on the outside, hit Disciple with a kick to the gut & Savage followed it up with the top rope elbow for the win. The match was terrible, but Savage sure does have some beautiful women to look at.
The main event was next with Bam Bam Bigelow taking on DP for the World Title in a hardcore match. Bam Bam brought a trash can full of plunder to the ring. They went to commercial about 2 minutes in to the match. They brawled around the building using a lot of plunder. Bigelow even attempted a splash off of the announcers table, but missed. The finish saw DDP power out of Greetings from Asbury Park & hit the Diamond cutter. However, both were stunned. Randy Savage ran out & hit the top rope elbow on Bigelow to allow Page to get the pin.
2000 - Sabu defeats The Messiah for the vacant XPW Heavyweight Title in California. Chris Candido vacated the title to go work for WCW.
2001 - WWE Backlash was held in Chicago, Illinois at the Allstate Arena. Buck Woodward filed the following PPV report:
Notes from Heat:
- Tazz and Michael Cole hosted live from Backlash.
- From the "just when you thought it was safe" department, they did an XFL season recap with comments from the players and highlights from the games
- Chris Jericho arrived. They aired a history package for the Duchess of Queensbury match, which we still don't know the rules for. Jonathan Coachman interviewed William Regal about it. Regal said the Duchess of Queensbury would be here tonight, and that he was waiting for her. Tazz said he heard a rumor that the Duchess was hot.
- The Dudley Boyz were interviewed by Kevin Kelly. They said that they proved X-Factor were liars. X-Factor said they couldn't be given the "Whazz Up" or 3D, but twice they've been proven wrong. Tonight, the Dudley Boyz promised to prove them wrong again by putting them through a table.
- They aired a history package for the submission match between Chris Benoit and Kurt Angle, which according to our poll is the match the fans are looking most forward to tonight, by far. Lillian Garcia interviewed Chris Benoit, who promised to humble Angle by making him tap out more in thirty minutes than he has in his whole career.
- The next history package showed the story behind Shane McMahon vs. Big Show. Lillian interviewed The Big Show, who promised to toss Shane all over the ring tonight. They put over how Show tossed around Test last week, who is so much bigger than Shane.
- Triple H and Stephanie will host Heat next week.
- They went to Jim Ross and Paul Heyman, who put over how Kane's injured arm will be a factor in the main event tonight.
- Jerry Lynn came to the ring, and he got a "Jerry" chant from some of the fans. Jerry Lynn said he challenged Crash Holly earlier today for a Light Heavyweight Title match. He said he was going to bring respect to the division like only a "natural born champion" could.
Crash came out, and Lynn hit some forearms. Crash came back with a rana, but Jerry got a two count with a backbreaker. Heyman put over Lynn's past, and mentioned his great series with Rob Van Dam. An "ECW" chant broke out. Crash hit a dropkick and came back with some punches and kicks, got caught with a boot to the face, but hit a powerslam for a two count. Crash hit a forearm to the back and stomped Lynn. Crash applied a bow and arrow, but Lynn broke free. Lynn came back with a rollup for two, then the two exchanged pinfall attempts, going back and forth, until Lynn grabbed the tights on a cradle and got the pin.
Jerry Lynn, in his TV debut, wins the WWF Light Heavyweight Title!
- They aired the Undertaker-Kane "Fight Song" Marilyn Manson music video.
- Lita vs. Molly Holly was next. They exchanged holds, then Molly hit an arm wringer and a rollup for two. Lita came back with a flying headscissors, and a monkey flip, but Molly landed on her feet, ducked an enzugiri, and hit a pair of elbow drops. Molly with two on a vertical suplex, then Lita hit a neckbreaker. Lita floated over a slam into a reverse DDT for a two count. Lita went for the Twist of Fate, but Molly turned it into a Northern Lights suplex for a two count. Molly hit a vertical suplex, then a top rope bodypress for a two count. Lita then turned a backslide into a Twist of Fate, then slipped on the moonsault, catching Molly on the legs, but got the pin anyway. They put over that Lita will probably be the next challenger for Chyna's title.
- The final history package, for the main event, aired. That closed the show.
The Dudley Boyz vs. X-Factor started the show, with the teams brawling. The Duds cleaned house, with Bubba and D-Von suplexing Albert, then Spike hitting a top rope double stomp. The Duds then tossed Spike onto X-Factor on the floor. It settled into a tag match, with Spike going at it with Justin. Albert tagged in, and Spike bit him and went for the Dudley Dog, but Albert tossed him off. Justin tagged back in and hit a pull out powerbomb from the corner for a two. Justin missed a baseball slide, posting himself. D-Von tagged in, as did X-Pac, and D-Von held the advantage until Albert hit him from behind. Albert tagged back in, and tossed D-Von to the floor for some double teaming, including posting D-Von. Albert slingshotted D-Von against the middle rope. X-Pac slammed D-Von, then hit a powerdrive legdrop. Bubba broke up the pin. X-Pac applied a chinlock. D-Von fought up, but X-Pac hit a spin kick to knock him down, then choked him. X-Pac shoulderblocked him in his corner, then tagged Justin. Credible hit punches, but D-Von slugged right back. Credible hit a sidewalk slam, then tagged in Albert. Albert hit a delayed double underhook suplex, but Spike broke up the count. X-Pac and Justin missed a double clothesline, and D-Von took them both down with a flying clothesline and made the hot tag to Bubba. He slammed X-Pac and Justin, then hit the full nelson slam on Justin, and a sideslam on X-Pac. Albert tried to break it up with a splash, but hit Justin. A brawl broke out, and the Dudleys hit Whazz Up on Justin. D-Von went for the table, but Albert booted him on the outside. In the ring, Albert hit an avalanche on Bubba, and X-Pac and Justin hit the double superkick, "X marks the spot" to get the win on Bubba.
X-Factor then went for a table, but D-Von dragged Albert from the ring, and Spike hit the Dudley Dog on Credible. X-Pac was then given 3D through the table.
The Duchess of Queensbury arrived. I've never seen this person before. She had the old English style wig and gown. Regal greeted her, and told her bodyguards to be careful.
Lillian Garcia interviewed Kurt Angle, who said he is the reason Chris Benoit doesn't refer to himself as the best technical wrestler in the WWF anymore.
They recapped the Light Heavyweight Title change from Heat.
Rhyno defending the Hardcore Title against Raven is next. Raven had the usual cart of goodies. Paul Heyman put over that these two were hardcore experts, since they were ECW Champions. Raven gave Rhyno a drop toe hold into a stop sign for a two count at the start. Raven charged into him with a trash can for another two count. Rhyno then shoulderblocked Raven in the corner, and bashed him with a trashcan. Rhyno kicked the can right into Raven, sending him to the floor, where Rhyno covered him for a two count. Rhyno moved the ring steps, then rammed Raven into them. Rhyno sat Raven in a chair, and leaped at him from the ring steps. Raven moved, and Rhyno hit the chair. Raven then jumped off the steps with a clothesline for a two count. They got back in the ring, but only briefly, as Raven punched Rhyno back to the floor. Raven hurled Rhyno into the guard wall. Rhyno pulled Raven into the ringpost. Rhyno hit Raven with a trashcan lid. Rhyno hit Raven with a sign, and covered him in the aisle for a two count. Rhyno hit him again with the trashcan lid for another two count. Rhyno hit Raven with the shopping cart, and tossed it into the ring. Rhyno rammed Raven into the cart, but Raven hit a drop toe hold, sending Raven face first into the cart. Raven started hitting Rhyno repeatedly with a street sign, then hit a bulldog for a two count. Rhyno came back, and lifted the shopping cart over his head, but Raven hit him in the gut with a trashcan, and Rhyno fell down with the cart on top of him. Raven got a two count, then rammed him with the cart for another two. Rhyno got a street sign shot as Raven came off the ropes, then hit him with the trashcan. Rhyno went for a gore, but Raven moved and Rhyno went through the back of the cart! Raven hit him with a metal sign repeatedly, then got a two count. Rhyno got to his feet, then hit the gore as Raven was going for the kitchen sink. Rhyno retains the Hardcore Title.
They replayed Shane McMahon's fairy tale "Shane and the Beanstalk" from Smackdown.
Shane McMahon was being interviewed by Michael Cole, when Stephanie came over and begged him to apologize to Vince. He wouldn't, and she told him he was living in a fantasy world.
Steve Austin, dragging Debra along, arrived. Austin told Kevin Kelly he wasn't worried about losing the WWF title. He also told Debra to shut up.
The Duchess of Queensbury was about to tell Jonathan Coachman the rules for the match, but William Regal came along and told him to "bugger off." He told the Duchess not to talk to anyone.
The Duchess of Queensbury match is next. William Regal took the mic, and introduced the Duchess. They had a throne at ringside for her to sit in. Chris Jericho came out next, mic in hand. He put up the picture of Regal as the Duchess on the screen, and hurled some insults.
They locked up, and shot a few forearms. Jericho hit a shoulderblock, then applied armwringer, Regal reversed, then Jericho reversed, then hit some chops. Jericho went to the top rope and hit an elbow to the head, then dropkicked him to the floor. Jericho whipped Regal into the guard rail, and dropped him chest first across it. Back in the ring, Jericho missed a missile dropkick, and Regal hit a vertical suplex for a two count. Regal hit the double knees to the face, then stomped Jericho. Regal waved to the crowd, then laid in a pair of European uppercuts, before putting Jericho in a chinlock. Jericho came back, but was booted in the face. Regal wasted time waving at the crowd while sitting on the top rope, and Jericho hit a rana, pulling Regal down. Jericho hit some chops and a flying forearm. Regal went for his neckbreaker, but Jericho hit a bulldog and the Lionsault. Jericho went for the cover, and the bell rang. The Duchess told Howard Finkel that the time limit for round one was over.
Regal cradled Jericho from behind to start the second round, but Jericho came right back. Regal caught a dropkick and slingshotted Jericho, then suplexed him. Regal locked on a Regal stretch, but Jericho made the ropes. Regal hit an uppercut, then went for a German suplex, but Jericho rolled forward, and went for the Walls of Jericho. Regal then tapped out, and the bell rang. Guess what? The Duchess told Finkel that you can't win by submission.
Jericho went towards the Duchess, and ended up fighting with Regal on the floor. Regal grabbed the scepter from the Duchess and hit Jericho with it. Guess what? No disqualifications sayeth the Duchess.
Regal rolled Jericho into the ring and got a two count. Regal hit a uppercut, missed a clothesline, but hit a back elbow. Regal hit a double underhook suplex for a two count. Jericho floated over a back suplex and hit an enzugiri. Both men were down, they got up and traded punches. Jericho worked Regal over in the corner with boots, then hit a clothesline in the corner. Jericho then stomped Regal in the nads. Regal went to the floor, and Jericho hit a baseball slide, sending Regal face first into the crotch of the Duchess. Jericho then laid out the Duchess' security guards and Regal, then dragged the Duchess into the ring and put her in the Walls of Jericho. Regal got in the ring with a chair, hit Jericho with it three times, then covered him for the pin. Regal wins the Duchess of Queensbury match.
Vince McMahon called the Big Show into his office. Vince told him to not hold back anything. Show said he was going to destroy him. McMahon congratulated Show, and the two laughed.
Time for the 30 minute submission match. I will attempt to update after every submission. Kurt Angle was out first, and took the mic. He ripped on Chicago, and talked about all the fat pigs in Chi town. He said Benoit would be squealing like a pig tonight, and if the fans could sit still without going for nachos, they'd find out it is true. Benoit then came out, and the match is on. There will be a 30 second rest period after falls.
They locked up, and Jim Ross sent out a get will wish to Stu Hart. Neither man got an advantage on the early lockups. Angle got a single leg, and the two grappled, but broke apart. Angle got a double leg and went for the ankle, but Benoit grabbed him under the chin, and they made the ropes. Angle went for the leg again, but Benoit reversed, and rolled into position for the crossface, but Angle made the ropes, then left the ring for a breather. Benoit held the ropes open and told Angle to get back in. Angle with a double leg again, and Benoit went for the arm, and Angle broke and got back up. Single leg by Angle, and Benoit almost had the crossface again on a reversal. Both men went to the floor for a moment, but the ref for them back in. Waistlock by Angle, reversal by Benoit. They rolled to the floor, and continued to reverse the waistlock outside. Benoit got the crossface, and Angle tapped, but the ref refused to count it since they were on the floor.
Five minutes gone.
Benoit argued with the referee. Angle went for a chair, but the referee made him leave it on the floor. Angle was favoring his shoulder. Angle with a right hand, then grabbed a leglace quickly for a tap out. Angle scores one.
Benoit hit a chop at the start of the next fall, but Angle went to work with chopblocks on the knee. He went for too many, and Benoit caught him, and turned him into a jujigatame armbar for a tap out.
It's one to one.
Benoit hit some chops, then hit an armdrag and applied the jujigatame again. Angle made the ropes for a break. Benoit whipped Angle shoulder first into the buckles, chopped him, and whipped him into the corner again.
Ten minutes gone.
Angle was on the ropes, and Benoit was pulling him off. The referee wanted him to break, and Benoit shoved him away. Angle hit him with a chair and applied the Ankle Lock for a tap out.
2-1 Angle.
Angle grabbed Benoit in a Crippler Crossface and got a quick tap out.
3-1 Angle.
Angle choked Benoit on the ropes, and hit a back suplex. Angle went for the Ankle Lock, but Benoit made the ropes. Angle stomped on Benoit, and kicked him to the floor. Angle rammed him into the announcers table twice, then tossed him back into the ring. Angle with a right hand back in the ring, but Benoit backdropped him to the floor. Benoit rammed him into the ringpost, and chopped him on the floor. Angle reversed a whip, and Benoit went into the steps. Angle applied the Ankle Lock on the floor, and Benoit tapped, but it didn't count.
15 minutes gone, 15 left.
Angle went for a jujigatame in the ring, but Benoit wouldn't let Angle straighten the arm for the hold, and made the ropes. Angle stomped Benoit, then applied the abdominal stretch. Benoit reversed, floated through a hip toss into an armdrag, and applied the jujigatame, but Angle made the ropes. Angle kicked Benoit, then Benoit hit a double leg takedown, and applied a sharpshooter. Angle made the ropes. Benoit dropped an elbow. Angle went for a German suplex, but Benoit rolled forward, hooked the leg, and applied a half Boston Crab for the tap out.
3-2 Angle.
Ten minutes left.
Angle stalled on the outside, and Benoit followed and hit some chops. Angle kept going to the outside, and finally got Benoit to chase him outside then into the ring, where Angle stomped him. They traded blows, then Angle sent Benoit to the floor, and kept him from reentering the ring with kicks. Angle laid in the kicks, then set Benoit for a vertical suplex, which he hit. Angle went for the leg, but Benoit made the ropes. Benoit booted a charging Angle, but Angle hit a drop toe hold and went for the ankle, but Benoit made the ropes. Angle dropped an elbow, then sent Benoit to the floor. Angle hit a vertical suplex on the floor. Benoit fired back with chops, then Angle poked him in the eyes and tossed him into the guard wall. Angle hit some punches in the corner. Benoit hit a Dragon Screw and applied the Ankle Lock, but Angle made the ropes. Benoit went for a dropkick, missed, and Angle applied a modified Regal Stretch/STF, before going into a normal chinlock.
Five minutes left.
Benoit fought up in the chinlock and hit a jawbreaker. Angle stomped Benoit, then hit an overhead belly to belly suplex. He hit a second.
Three minutes left.
Benoit reversed an whip into the corner, and hit two German suplexes. Angle reversed out, Angle reversed into a single leg, and Benoit reversed again into an Ankle Lock. Angle tapped out.
3-3 with two minutes left.
Benoit stomped Angle's leg, and hit a chopblock. He hit another one, then Benoit hit a German suplex. Benoit went for another, but Angle grabbed the ropes, and hit a low kick. Angle went for the Ankle Lock, but Benoit made the ropes. With fifteen seconds left, Angle hit a back suplex and applied an Ankle Lock. The clock ran out, and the bell rang.
Benoit tapped after the bell.
Angle started to leave, saying Benoit had tapped. The referee then decided that we would have sudden death overtime. First submission wins.
Angle stomped Benoit, and hit a belly to belly suplex. As he picked Benoit up, he rammed Angle in the corner, but Angle reversed into a cradle, and used the ropes to pull back on Benoit's neck. When he let go of the ropes, Benoit rolled him over and had the Crippler Crossface in center ring. Angle tapped out.
Chris Benoit wins, 4-3 in overtime.
Undertaker and Kane were apparently arguing in the back over Kane's arm. Stephanie and Triple H were watching on the monitor, and Triple H said they were probably trying to make up excuses for losing. Stephanie said they live in a fantasy world, like Shane.
Shane McMahon vs. The Big Show, Last Man Standing, is next.
Big Show was out first, then Shane came out, with new entrance music, holding his "Shane and the Beanstalk" book. Shane ran around the ring early, then went under the ring, and came out the other side with a kendo stick, which he used repeatedly on the Big Show. Show grabbed him by the throat, but Shane used the stick to escape. Show clotheslined Shane, then tossed him over the top rope into the ring. Shane grabbed a chair and hit Show six times with it. The referee began the ten count, but Show was getting up at five. Shane pulled out a medical bag, put on a surgical mask, then took a bottle of ether and poured it on a cloth. He jumped on Show's back and smothered him with it. The fans chanted "Shane-O-Mac." Show appeared out, and Vince McMahon ran out and hit Shane with the chair twice. Vince left.
The referee counted both men, and Show was up at 8. He lifted Shane and tossed him in the corner, then hit him with knees and a side slam. Shane managed to get up, using the ropes, at nine. Show put Shane on the top rope, then tossed him off of it. Show hit the Showstopper, waited for the eight count, and then the chokeslam. He waited for an eight count, lifted Shane again, and put him in a torture rack. Test ran in and hit Show with a boot to the face, then pounded him. Test checked on Shane, and Show got up and tossed Test to the floor. Show went after him, pummeling him on the floor. They went up the aisle, with Show hitting a headbutt. Test got a metal sign from a fan and hit Show twice, but Show came back but ramming Test into part of the set. Shane showed up with the metal sign and hit Show. Show grabbed a metal pipe, and Shane ran. Shane climbed up on the side of the set to get away. Show dropped the pipe, and started to follow, but Test pulled him down. Test took the metal sign and hit Show with it over and over. Meanwhile, Shane was on top of the entranceway. Test laid Show on on a road case, and Shane did the longest drop in wrestling history, hitting an elbow on the show, crashing into the case. We never actually saw the impact until the replays. Both men were out, but Test pulled Shane onto the camera crane, so he looked to be standing, and Show was counted down.
Shane wins the match.
Steve Blackman was in WWF NY, talking about how impressive Shane's dive was. Grandmaster Sexay interrupted him and starting rhyming about the fall. Jim Ross compared it to Mick Foley's falling off Hell in the Cell. I imagine there will be quite a bit of discussion over that.
Time for the European Title Three Way match. I will do my best to keep up with the action in this one. Matt Hardy was out first, then Christian, then Eddie Guerrero. All three men came out alone.
All three men started out slugging, with Eddie and Christian then double teaming on Matt. They hit a double elbow and tossed him to the floor, then Christian turned on Eddie. Christian hit a high slapjack on Eddie, then a powerslam for a two count. Eddie hit a rana, then set for a superplex, but Matt came back in and he went for the superplex. Eddie pulled Matt onto his shoulders, and Matt rolled him up into a two count as Christian missed a clothesline. Matt went for the Twist of Fate on Eddie but Christian clotheslined him. Eddie hit a back suplex on Matt. Some more pinfall attempts and breakups, then Matt hit a clothesline on Christian for a two count after Eddie had been dumped to the floor. Eddie tripped Matt and pulled him outside, then Christian hit both men with a baseball slide. Matt was backdropped into the ropes on the floor by Christian, but Matt bounced off into a DDT on the floor. Guerrero dragged Matt into the ring and hit two brainbusters for a two count. Matt hit a backdrop and went to the top rope, but Eddie stopped him, and went for a rana, but Christian hooked Matt so Eddie would fall off. Matt flipped Christian onto Eddie, then hit both men with a double clothesline off the top. Matt tossed Christian out, then hit a second rope legdrop on Eddie for a two count. Matt and Christian fought outside, then Edge ran out and speared Matt on the floor. Matt was tossed in, but Eddie shoved Christian away and got a two count on Matt. Jeff Hardy ran out to fight with Edge, and Christian hit a Tomikaze on Eddie. The ref was getting Edge out, and Jeff Hardy hit the Swanton on Christian. Matt then hit the Twist of Fate on Christian, and got the pin on him. Matt Hardy retains the European Title.
They replayed Shane McMahon's elbow drop again, and JR said Shane had gone to a hospital for evaluation.
Time for the main event, all titles on the line.
Triple H, with Stephanie, was out first, then Austin, then Kane, then Undertaker.
Ross explained that only one championship would switch here. If Austin is pinned, Triple H keeps his title, and vice versa. If Kane or UT is pinned, the tag titles change hands. Lots of stalling early, with Triple H and Austin teasing leaving. Triple H tried to get in the ring, and was punched out. He tried again, and was punched out. Finally, Undertaker and Kane left the ring and went after Triple H and Austin. Kane and Triple H paired off at ringside, while Austin and Taker went at it in the aisle. Kane rammed HHH into the announcers table, while Undertaker went at it with Austin in the ring. Then the duos traded places, with Kane choking HHH in the ring, and Taker fighting Austin outside. Austin ran in and Kane shocked him. It settled into a tag match, with Kane beating on Triple H in the corner with right hands. Kane hit a left (good) arm clothesline. Triple H hit a flying knee into Kane's bad arm. HHH started to work on the bad arm, but Kane fought back with the good arm. Both men tagged, and Austin backed off when he saw it was Taker in the ring with him. Taker stomped the hell out of Austin in the corner, then slugged Triple H. Austin then worked on Taker with punches, but UT came back with back elbows and tossed Austin into the buckles over and over. Four Irish whips into the corner, and Austin was begging off again. Taker kicked him in the face and Kane slugged Austin. Undertaker reluctantly tagged Kane back in. Austin kicked Kane in the bad arm, but Kane hit a clothesline with the good one. Triple H tagged in, backed off, than ran into a right hand by the Undertaker. Taker hit a boot to the face, and walked the ropes with an armwringer on Triple H and dropped the forearm. Austin ran in, and Taker hit it on Austin as well. Triple H and Austin headed up the aisle, and Kane ran up behind them and hit a double clothesline. Kane tossed Austin back in the ring, and Taker went for the Last Ride, but Triple H broke it up. Austin and Triple H then double teamed Taker with kicks in the corner. Triple H rammed Taker into the table on the outside, then tossed him back in. Austin straddled Undertaker on the ropes, and hit a knee drop. Triple H came back in, and the two continued to work on Undertaker. More tags, and more stomping and keeping UT in their corner. Undertaker started to punch his way out, but Triple H hit the facebuster to the knee. Triple H went for a backdrop, but Taker hit a DDT. Taker refused to tag Kane though, and Austin clipped him from behind. Austin hit the Thesz press on Taker, and Austin hit an elbowdrop. Taker got a hand up and choked Austin. He booted HHH, went for a chokeslam on Austin, then grabbed Triple H as well. Austin and HHH broke free, and they all collided on a clothesline attempt. Kane tagged himself in, cleaned house, then hit the top rope clothesline on Austin. Kane slammed Triple H off the top rope in the other corner, but Austin hit Kane's arm to slow him down. Austin tried to hit a stunner, but Kane shrugged it off. Kane went back and forth between Austin and HHH with the good arm, but Austin hit a cross armbreaker on Kane's bad arm. Austin wrapped Kane's bad arm around the bottom rope and pulled back on it. Triple H pulled the arm across the top rope, then dropped down with it. Kane's arm snapped across the top rope, then fell to the floor. Kane was on the floor, and Austin hit it with a chair. Triple H put on an armbar in the ring, and pulled the bad arm across his knee. Austin tagged in and stomped on the arm. Austin then hit a flurry of punches to the face. Kane came back with some shots, but Triple H kicked him. Austin now applied an armbar on the injured limb. Kane battled back, but Austin floated over a slam and rammed Kane's bad arm into the corner. Undertaker got a shot in on Austin, but HHH and Austin continued to tag in and out and worked over the arm. Triple H applied an overhead wristlock, but Kane powered up and pushed Triple H over the top rope. Kane went for the tag, put Triple H pulled Taker off the apron, and allowed Austin to drag Kane away from the corner. Austin stomped Kane in the nads. Kane tried for a side headlock, and Austin hit a back suplex. Austin tagged Triple H, who went to the top rope, but Kane got the boot up, and Triple H dove right into it. Kane crawled for the tag, but Austin cut him off and applied a sleeper. Kane turned it into a back suplex, but Triple H tagged in. Triple H took Kane down with a single leg, then hit a Pedigree. However, Triple H for some reason tagged Austin, and Austin went for the cover. Undertaker ran in and chokeslammed Austin while the referee argued with Triple H and Stephanie. Ref Earl Hebner got tired of Stephanie, and shoved her off the apron. Kane got a two count on Austin. Triple H tagged in, but Kane hit an enzugiri, sending Triple H into Hebner. Undertaker tagged in and went to work, with Hebner saying he was not legal. Taker went ballistic on Austin and Taker, and sent Austin from the ring. Taker hit the Last Ride on Triple H, but Hebner wouldn't count the pin. Taker grabbed him, and Austin hit Taker from behind, sending him into Hebner, who went flying out of the ring. Austin hit the stunner on Kane. Undertaker and Austin then brawled to the floor, over the railing and into the crowd. In the ring, Stephanie handed Triple H a title belt. He went to hit Kane with it, but Kane booted him in the face. Kane went for the chokeslam on Triple H, but Stephanie ran in. Kane hit the big boot on Stephanie. Vince McMahon ran in with the sledgehammer, but Kane caught him and grabbed Vince for the chokeslam. Triple H picked up the hammer and hit Kane in the arm with it. He hit him again in the arm, then in the head. Vince tossed Hebner back in, and Triple H covered Kane for the pin, as Undertaker didn't make it back to the ring in time.
Triple H and Steve Austin are the new WWF World Tag Team Champions.
2002 - WWE broadcast Raw. Tim Whitehead filed the following TV report:
The 4/29 edition of RAW IS STRANGE aired live from Buffalo. It was sort of an offbeat show, and not necessarily in a good way. There was some good stuff here and there, and it wasn't a totally boring show, but it wasn't all that hot, either. The Steve Austin angle with Ric Flair, which started off strong, has gotten ridiculous. Flair as another heel owner is not the role Flair needs to be playing, but that's where this looks to be headed unless it's all one big swerve.
Eddie Guerrero defeated Jeff Hardy to retain the IC Title in 6:48. Yes, they started with a match, which was a positive. Jim Ross mentioned that Lita will be having neck surgery tomorrow due to an injury sustained filming her spot on Dark Angel. She'll be out for nine months. Jeff sent Guerrero out with a headscissors. Guerrero came back with brawling. He hit what could best be described as a flying hip block. Guerrero went up for a frog splash but Jeff superplexed him. Jeff went to the top but got crotched. Guerrero went up after him but was shoved off. Rather than bumping, Guerrero did an amazing somersault flip back into the ring. Jeff went for a swanton and missed but succeeded in hitting a twisting moonsault, which also nailed the ref. Naturally, there was no ref when Jeff went for the three count. Guerrero recovered and got the title belt. Jeff went over the ropes in an attempted crossbody but was met with a belt shot. Guerrero rolled Jeff back in, hit the frog splash, and got the pin.
JR & Jerry Lawler discussed the problems between Ric Flair and Steve Austin. Footage aired of the whole deal, from Flair's bad call as referee at Backlash and subsequent apology through the tag match against the NWO where Big Show turned on Austin. As always, JR believed Flair was only the victim of circumstance, while Lawler thought Flair double-crossed Austin on purpose.
Austin was shown arriving. He asked a crew guy if that no-good lying son of a bitch had arrived yet. The crew guy looked confused and noted that Vince McMahon obviously wasn't there. A funny line, but didn't last week's show establish that the crew is well aware of Austin's problems with Flair? Austin said he meant the other no-good lying son of a bitch, Ric Flair. He sent the guy to tell Flair to meet him in the ring. Sorry to report that the crowd started with the "whats" during this segment.
Austin arrived at the ring. JR continued to defend Flair but Lawler insisted Flair screwed Austin. Austin said he was in a bad mood, and was a little pissed off. He then upgraded that to a lot pissed off. The crowd was chanting "what" at his every word. The "what" stuff has long passed the point where it ruins every interview segment. Austin reviewed the entire scenario with Flair, including the bad count at Backlash, the apology, the setting up of last week's tag match, Bradshaw being found unconscious, and Big Show joining the NWO and chokeslamming him. Austin demanded a match against that 7 foot sorry piece of trash and called Flair out to the ring. Flair came out, dressed all in black (shirt, pants, and jacket). Flair started to speak from the ramp top, but Austin told him to come to the ring where they could be face to face. Flair refused, claiming that he didn't want anything to happen where he might have to suspend Austin, or worse. He added that he doesn't appreciate Austin implying that he was behind Big Show's turn. Austin flipped Flair off. An "a**hole" chant erupted at Flair. Flair once again apologized. He claimed he picked Show as Austin's partner after Bradshaw went down so that Austin wouldn't have to face those bad NWO dudes alone. Flair continued to ramble, saying that since Austin's "the man", it's to be expected that a lot of the guys will be trying to nail him and take him down, and that's what happened when Show turned on him. Flair pleaded total innocence concerning Show's turn. Austin asked the crowd to shout "hell yeah" if they want to see Austin vs. Show. But Flair said he knew Austin would be a beer drinking, ass kicking lunatic after what Show did, so to stop any trouble from breaking out he sent Show off on a promotional tour of India. I wonder if the fans in Bombay will shout "what" in Hindi when they arrive? Anyway, Flair for the 476th time said he likes and respects Austin, and promised to make things up to him. So he set up an Austin & Bradshaw vs. Scott Hall & X-Pac match. Austin noted that was the same match originally scheduled last week, and he ended up getting screwed. Flair appointed himself special ref to guarantee that wouldn't happen again. I'm sure that made Austin feel more secure. Flair warned Austin that he'd better not lay a hand on him. Austin said he'll lay his hands on Flair whenever he feels like it and, in fact, if Flair screws him, will open a can of whoop ass on him, and that's the bottom line. Flair just glared at Austin. This was one of those long segments that they could have reduced to a two minute encounter in the hallway and it would have been better.
Booker T was doing his warm-ups again when Goldust arrived. Goldust was upset that they were each in singles matches and not teaming together, apparently at Booker's request. Goldust said that he hadn't felt so abandoned since young Macauley (Culkin) was left "Home Alone". He said that Booker would have to represent both of them when he went out for his match, so he put his long blond wig on him. Blond Booker looked in the mirror, and in response to the black Goldilocks he saw looking back at him, said, "Tell me I do not look like that". Goldust said that if Denzel (Washington) and Lil' Kim ever have a kid, he'll look like Booker. Booker said that if Big Bird and Spiderman ever do it, Goldust will be their "illegitimate lesbian" offspring.
Rob Van Dam beat Booker T in 3:15. RVD took a scary looking power bomb. Both threw some kicks. RVD took command and hit the rolling thunder. Goldust came out uninvited and got on the apron. Booker ended up colliding with Goldust, allowing RVD to get the pin after a kick and a frog splash. They made the mistake of replaying the collision, and it came off bad because Booker clearly had to go out of his way to collide with Goldust. Booker was furious at Goldust afterward.
Terri interviewed Bradshaw and asked about last week's incident where he was knocked unconscious. Bradshaw claimed to be extremely unstable and extremely pissed off. He said it was that throwback to the Jurassic era, Big Show, who attacked him last week. He said it was an attack from behind, which is not a fair fight, though he added that the concept of a fair fight is an oxymoron. He said the term "fair fight" is like talking about an honest politician, a celibate priest (ouch!), a sober Bradshaw or Austin, or a brave Big Show. He said when Show gets back from India, he'll nail his tyrannosaurus rex ass, and that later tonight he and Austin would light up the NWO's asses like an early 4th of July display, including Flair if he gets in their way.
Jazz was doing push-ups in preparation for a scheduled Hardcore Title shot against Bubba Ray Dudley. Molly Holly told her she was crazy to challenge Bubba. She told Jazz about the time Bubba put her through a table and said Jazz may be tough, but isn't as tough as Bubba. Jazz just glared at her with that intimidating stare. Molly said, "Then again, maybe you are as tough."
Jonathan Coachman interviewed Shawn Stasiak. Footage aired from last week where William Regal KO'ed Stasiak with his brass knux punch. Coach then wondered why Stasiak had challenged Brock Lesnar. Stasiak in response did one of his badly rhyming Planet Stasiak space cadet promos. I admit, I get a kick out of Stasiak.
Lesnar beat Stasiak by TKO in 1:48. Paul Heyman was there yelling advice to Lesnar, and taunting Stasiak, but he again didn't do an interview. Maybe the ones he did two and three weeks ago were too good. And heaven knows we can't take time away from the "what" segments. Stasiak surprised Lesnar by attacking so quickly and twice took him down. But as expected Lesnar recovered, posted Stasiak twice, suplexed him, gave him a Brockbuster, and a powerbomb. The ref then stopped the match. For the record, it turns out that our Smackdown columnist Eric McHugh beat me to the punch on the term "Brockbuster", so he gets credit for popularizing the term if the WWF is smart enough to pick it up!
Flair was on the phone, telling whomever was on the other end that he'll prove to Austin that he's on the up and up. Debra, whom Flair had sent for, walked in. Flair asked her to help convince Austin that he's beng truthful. But Debra said she had a message from Steve, whereupon she slapped the hell out of Flair. She told Flair never to trust anybody. Flair was upset, as you might expect, and started grumbling that he's the owner and it's not right for him to be treated like this.
Undertaker interrupted Sgt. Slaughter, who was also on the phone. These guys stay on the phone as much as teenage girls. UT mentioned that Sarge and Hulk Hogan had quite a few matches once upon a time. Sarge agreed they'd had their share of wars. But UT then noted that they're now friends, and have that mutual respect between one another. Sarge agreed with that, too. So UT sent Sarge to tell his friend Hulk that UT has some things he wants to say to him straight to his face. He said he'll be calling Hogan down to the ring. UT sent Sarge away by condescendingly saying, "You're dismissed, Slaughter!"
Hour two began with Austin & Bradshaw beating Hall & X-Pac in 7:28. By this point, Lawler was regularly calling Flair "Slick Ric". Except for a couple of minutes where they got heat on Bradshaw, it was almost a squash. X-Pac got killed. Bradshaw made a point of doing Hall's fall away slam. Flair was calling it right down the middle. Austin hit a Lou Thesz Press, which was called that by JR, but no mention was made of Thesz' passing, which was a shame. No mention was made last week of Wahoo's death, either. They all four started brawling and Hall bumped out. Austin caught X-Pac with a stunner and went for the pin. From outside, Hall placed X-Pac's boot on the rope but Flair counted the pin anyway. It was the exact same pinning scenario as at Backlash.
After a commercial break, they replayed the tag match finish from two separate camera angles. It was the same deal as at Backlash, as the camera from Flair's vantage point made it look as if Flair couldn't see X-Pac's foot on the ropes. Lawler said Flair had been out to screw someone, and did it to X-Pac, which didn't make a lot of sense. Anyway, Hall & X-Pac went to Flair's office and complained. They said Flair's lucky he's an owner or they'd kick his ass. Flair warned them to be careful what they wish for, or it might come true.
UT came out and did a promo with amazingly little heat. I was actually thankful, since the silent crowd at least didn't shout "what". UT said that the more things change, the more they stay the same. He recalled the early days of Hulkamania and how people would stand on their chairs and cheer, and how little kids dressed in red & yellow would sit on their dads' shoulders to get a good look at their hero. But UT then noted that when he came out, those smiles turned to tears and those kids hid behind their dads. UT said he's not like Rock, Triple H, and some of the others who are awe-struck at Hogan. He said he's not impressed at all by the Hulkster since he's beat him before and is better than Hogan is now or was in his prime. He said Hogan left the WWF years ago because he was afraid of him. He added that Hogan wants to give HHH a rematch to evade having to face UT. He just kept talking to no heat. He said at Judgment Day he'll leave Hogan a battered and bloody shell of a man, just as he did to Flair. He said he hopes Hogan beats Chris Jericho on Smackdown because he wants to destroy Hogan in front of all his people. He also took credit for Hogan winning the belt at Backlash. UT never got around to actually calling Hogan out, as he had promised to do, but Hulk came out anyway. Hogan never said a word. He just stared, but at least his arrival brought the crowd to life. UT said Hogan must want a piece of him. As for what he'll do when Hulkamania runs wild, UT said he'll put Hogan down like the bitch he is. Hogan slugged UT, which got a pop. UT simply left as Hogan ripped his shirt off. JR said UT had the limbertail for just walking out like that. At least it ended the segment, which was mostly boring.
Highlights aired of Lita's upcoming Dark Angel appearance.
Bubba Ray Dudley vs. Jazz for the Hardcore Title ended with Steven Richards winning the title at the 4:00 mark via the 24/7 rule. Jazz's women's title wasn't on the line. Can you imagine Bubba as women's champ? Coach did a pre-match interview with Bubba, who said Jazz must not be aware of what he does to females in the ring, and asked Coach what Molly, Trish Stratus, and Mae Young have in common. Coach said all were put through tables by Bubba. Bubba commended Coach for his Einstein brilliance and said all of them have tasted Bubba's wood and if Jazz also wants a taste, she'll get it. The match itself was done for comedy. Bubba just toyed with Jazz at first, no-selling her blows and doing a ton of dancing. Jazz got in a brief offensive flurry after a low blow, including garbage can lid shots. Bubba bit Jazz on the ass and she slapped him. Bubba put a garbage can over Jazz's head and did a Dusty Rhodes bionic elbow on it, complete with Dusty mannerisms. Bubba told himself to get a table, and did so. It was at this point that Richards ran in with a guitar. Bubba avoided the shot and had Richards set up but Jazz hit Bubba with a snow shovel. Richards then busted the guitar over Bubba's head and pinned him. Richards and Jazz left together, as if this had all been a set-up to allow Richards to get the title. They left together in a car, with Richards boasting about being hardcore. At least they protected Bubba here.
They aired a weird segment with William Regal. He was in a room surrounded by Hogan merchandise. A clip aired on a monitor of the old Hulk Hogan cartoon and Regal acted disgusted. He said the fans who are passionate about Hulkamania are the lowest of the low and are pathetic for worshipping a man who prances around in a feathered boa like a 50 pence tart. He said it was bad enough 18 years ago but in the year 2002 it's sad that people still buy this crap. He put on a Hogan cap and mocked a typical Hulk fan. He added that this behavior is not just in America, but is a worldwide phenomenon. He said the fans should worship someone who speaks the Queen's English and can say a sentence without having to end it in "brother". He had his own message for Hulk: "What you gonna see, when the power of the punch runs wild on thee!"
Austin & Bradshaw were celebrating their win by drinking beer (what a surprise!). Flair came in and said that his actions as ref should have proven to them that he's honest. But both Austin & Bradshaw said Flair hadn't proven anything. So Flair set up an Austin & Bradshaw & Flair vs. Hall & X-Pac & Big Show match for next week. Flair let out a "whoooo!". Austin, Bradshaw, and about a million fans let out a groan.
They aired a montage of footage and clips about Scorpion King, including Rock appearances on Conan and other shows. Scorpion King remained the #1 movie for the second week.
Spike Dudley beat Goldust to retain the European Title in 1:41. Goldust threw his wig at Spike, and Spike put it on. Not much else happened until Booker ran in and hit Goldust with a kick behind the ref's back. Spike then won with the Dudley Dog. Goldust looked at Booker afterward and said, "Why,why?" As if he didn't know.
The TV main event was supposed to be a 50 pence boa-wearing tart (Hogan) vs. Regal in a non-title match. But when Hogan arrived, Regal invited him to have a spot of tea. I'm not kidding. He actually had a tea set at ringside. Regal said his mother had sent the tea to him direct from England. Hogan accepted the invitation, but ended up spitting the tea in Regal's face. Hulk turned the tea table over on Regal's head and beat him up as if he were a parliamentary mule. Undertaker then arrived and attacked the Hulkster from behind. He gave Hulk a slow motion beating. UT took Hogan's belt (his pants belt, not the title belt) and busted Hogan up with the buckle. Hogan juiced like crazy but the crowd never really got into the assault since it was so slow. JR, of course, freaked out. UT finished Hogan off with a chokeslam to end the show.
RHETORICAL QUESTIONS:
What good is having the #1 contendership on RAW if Vince is setting up title shots on his own on Smackdown for other guys?
And in any event, why didn't Austin even express concern about the contendership this week?
Can someone please find a way to stop the "what" chants?
Does NWO stand for "Never Wins One"?
Do you have difficulty imagining Big Show in India?
Who's funniest, Bubba Ray Dudley or Booker T?
2003 - The Burlington Professional Women's Network protested before a Smackdown brand house show in Burlington, Vermont, citing that WWE promotes violence against women and bullying with it's product, according to an article on Vermont Channel WPTZ 5's website. The story reported that "Protesters said they decided to demonstrate against wrestling after seeing what they called a 'disturbing documentary' on WWE." The documentary in question (which is not named in the article) is "Wrestling With Manhood", a 60 minute film produced by the Media Education Foundation in Massachusetts, a "liberally progressive" political group that has targeted music videos and MTV in the past. The article noted that wrestling fans argued with the protesters, which they noted was just another example of WWE promoting bullying (one of the key points in the documentary).
2004 - WWE broadcast Smackdown. Buck Woodward filed the following TV report:
Kurt Angle came out to open the show, confined to a wheelchair with his leg in a cast as the result of the attack by the Big Show two weeks ago. Angle also had a bandage on the back of his head. He was wheeled out by a large man who Angle referred to as "Luther" (formerly known as Horshu). Angle, fighting back the tears, announced that doctors had informed him that he could never wrestle again. Angle said he blamed the crowd, as well as Big Show and Torrie Wilson, for what had happened to him. He said he became Smackdown General Manager for the good of the fans, and now he had his career taken away from him. Angle demanded that Torrie come to the ring, and as she did, Angle ordered her music not to be played. A fearful Torrie entered the ring, and Angle ranted at her for being the cause of his condition. He blamed her for laughing at the Big Show, causing the whole situation. Angle revealed that while Torrie goes through life being "perfect", he can no longer have sex with his wife as the result of his injuries. Angle then told Torrie that tonight she would not only face Rene Dupree, but it would be a no DQ match.
Torrie Wilson vs. Rene Dupree - No Disqualification. Rene bullied Torrie around the ring at first, but Torrie actually came back with a sunset flip, only to have Rene sit on her. Torrie cradled Rene into the move anyway, but this just infuriated Dupree, who started tossing her around. John Cena ran in to a big pop and started brawling with Dupree. Cena went to check on Torrie, and Dupree ran back at him, leading to some more brawling, before Dupree tossed Torrie in between them and ran off. Dupree's music played, and it was insinuated that he won by DQ due to Cena's interference, but it was a no DQ match, so I am calling it a no-contest. Winner: No Contest.
Backstage, Rene Dupree complained to Kurt Angle about Cena's interference. Angle blamed rap music for the downfall of society. Angle gave Dupree a U.S. Title match with Cena at Backlash, saying he would be proud to see a Frenchman become the U.S. Champion.
Cruiserweight Champion Chavo Guerrero Jr., with Chavo Sr. vs. Nunzio. Nunzio actually earned this match on Velocity by winning a four way bout two weeks ago. The lights went out when Nunzio was in the ring, and Undertaker's gong hit, but nothing came of it, other than Nunzio getting scared. Short match, with Nunzio getting a nearfall with a dropkick, but Chavo getting the win with a Gory Special into a facebuster. Winner: Chavo Guerrero Jr. After the match, Chavo cut a promo about how he wants new competition, and challenged any cruiserweight in the world. He said next week he would take on any opponent that stepped up to the challenge, provided it was not someone he has faced before.
Rob Van Dam came to the ring, after a recap had been shown of the Dudleys attacking him last week. RVD insisted the Dudleys come out right now, but instead Paul Heyman (who said he was an "invited guest" at the show) came out. He said the Dudleys simply took advantage of an opportunity last week, and Van Dam was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Heyman told Van Dam if he wanted the Dudleys, he needed to realize this wasn't the "corporate" Dudleys anymore. The Dudleys music hit, and they came in from the crowd, ambushing Van Dam. They were beating him down, when Eddie Guerrero ran in for the save.
Josh Matthews interviewed Booker T about last week, when he ran away as the lights went out and smoke filled the ring. Booker claimed he thought the smoke was from a fire, so he was just running away to protect himself. When Josh brought up the Undertaker, Booker said he wasn't afraid of him, and that Undertaker should stay out of his business.
A vignette for Mordecai was shown, promising that "Judgment" was coming nearer.
Backstage, Paul Heyman came out of Kurt Angle's office and told the Dudleys that one of them would have a match with Eddie Guerrero again this week. When asked about RVD, Heyman told the Dudleys not to worry about him.
Booker T vs. Billy Gunn. Back and forth match early, but Gunn did pull out the One and Only for a near fall. Gunn set up for the Fameasser, but Booker moved out of the way and hit a sidekick. Booker went for the Bookend, but Gunn elbowed out. Finish saw Gunn go for a splash in the corner, but Booker moved and Gunn appeared to have hit his head on the ringpost. Gunn was slow to get up, and Booker hit the ax kick for the win. Winner: Booker T.
Booker T was in the ring when the lights went out and Undertaker's music hit. Taker and Paul Bearer came to the ring, and Undertaker made his entrance to a big pop. Booker got on the mic and said he just had a grueling match, and he won't fight Undertaker tonight. Booker said Undertaker should leave, then said he would leave instead. As Booker walked out, he grabbed the urn from Paul Bearer and decked Undertaker with it. Taker sat up and glared at Booker. Booker ran off through the crowd as Undertaker got to his feet, staring a Booker.
Backstage, Josh Matthews interviewed Kurt Angle (who now wants to be called "Mr. Angle"). Mr. Angle said that Booker T is the best performer on Smackdown, and he is not afraid of the Undertaker. Angle announced that Booker T will face The Undertaker at Judgment Day.
The Raw Rebound was shown.
Backstage, Charlie Haas was in the shower saying somebody stole his trunks, while Rico and Miss Jackie stood outside the shower, holding them. Rico said that Jackie gave him a pair of his tights to wear. Haas didn't want to wear them, and Rico suggested that Haas could come out naked then. Haas said he would wear the tights, and that he would meet Rico in the ring. Jackie threw Haas' trunks in the garbage as they left.
A video package on WWE stars welcoming home U.S. troops from Iraq was shown.
WWE Tag Team Champions Rico & Charlie Haas, with Miss Jackie, vs. Doug & Danny Basham. Haas came out wearing a pair of Rico's outrageous tights, much to his own dismay. They did a lot of homoerotic spots, with Haas just as uncomfortable as the Bashams with Rico's antics. Back and forth match, then the Bashams began to work over Haas, who eventually made the hot tag to Rico. Rico hit a flurry of clotheslines and kicks before the match broke down with everyone in the ring. Doug was kicked out of the ring, and Rico kissed Danny, sending him stumbling backwards into a Haas German suplex for the win. Winners: Rico & Charlie Haas. Post match, Haas enjoyed hugging Miss Jackie in celebration, but got grossed out when Rico joined in on the hug.
Tazz and Michael Cole plugged Velocity and it's new timeslot on Saturday evenings. Rey Mysterio vs. Jamie Noble was advertised for the show, and it was mentioned that John Cena would also wrestle on the broadcast. The Judgment Day card, as it stands now, was rundown:
- WWE Champion Eddie Guerrero vs. John Bradshaw Layfield.
- U.S. Champion John Cena vs. Rene Dupree.
- The Undertaker vs. Booker T.
A Justin Bradshaw Layfield vignette was shown of him in New York, talking about how legal immigrants came into the country through New York, while illegal immigrants came in the dead of night by running over the border. He also ripped on farmers for needing government help, and said that rich people like himself are unfairly taxed to help lazy people who won't work for their money.
WWE Champion Eddie Guerrero vs. Bubba Ray Dudley. Kurt Angle was at ringside for this match, with Luther. Guerrero went towards Angle before the match, but Luther stood between them. The Dudleys came out with Paul Heyman, and Bubba ended up being "The Dudley" for this match. Bubba punched Eddie early, but Eddie came back with a quick offense of headscissors and a reverse bodypress off the ropes. Bubba hung Eddie in the Tree Of Woe for a while, but Eddie ended up sending Bubba to the floor and hitting Bubba and D-Von with a top rope flying bodypress to the outside as they went to break. When they came back, we saw that Bubba had tossed Eddie into the ringsteps to take control. Lots of back and forth punching, with Bubba maintaining the offense, until he missed a backsplash. Guerrero hit a pair of vertical suplexes, but Bubba blocked the third one and the referee ended up getting bumped. Bubba went for a Bubba Bomb, but Eddie blocked it and went to the ropes. Bubba pulled him off the ropes onto his shoulders, and D-Von went to the top rope while Paul Heyman got on the apron to distract the referee. The Dudleys went for the old Road Warrior Doomsday Device, but Eddie ducked the top rope clothesline, sending D-Von crashing to the mat. Guerrero then rolled up Bubba into a Victory Roll for the pin. Winner: Eddie Guerrero.
Post-match, the Dudleys beat on Guerrero until Rob Van Dam made the save. Van Dam kicked D-Von in the crotch (revenge for last week) and the Dudleys were laid out in the ring. Van Dam and Guerrero hit frog splashes, with each hitting the Dudley that was farther away from the corner they were jumping from. As Guerrero and RVD celebrated, Angle told Tazz that it would be Guerrero & RVD vs. The Dudleys next week, and that he would have the "last laugh".
2006 - World Wrestling Legends held their first and last PPV, the "6:05 Reunion", which was taped at Hard Rock Live in Orlando, FL. Richard Trionfo was on hand at the PPV taping and filed the following live report:
World Wrestling Legends 6:05 Reunion Report and Live Thoughts
by Richard Trionfo
I was at the Hard Rock on Sunday night for the World Wrestling Legends 6:05 Reunion show that was recorded for an upcoming pay per view broadcast. You can see the results that I called in to Mike Johnson during the night. This report will be a little different than my Impact Live Thoughts and will include information about the matches on the show.
The show began with the former Nitro Girls coming to the ring and dancing inside the ring.
The Iron Sheik got on the mic before the match and Nikolai Volkoff performed the Russian National Anthem.
Match Number One: Nikolai Volkoff (with Iron Sheik) versus ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan
Volkoff with kicks and punches to Duggan. Duggan is able to fight back and he goes up top for the punches of ten. Volkoff is dazed and that allows Duggan to hit the running shoulder tackle for the thee count.
Winner: ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan
After the match, Duggan got on the mic and he thanked the troops serving the United States and got the crowd to start a ‘USA’ chant.
Match Number Two: Rick Steiner versus Virgil
Virgil attacks Steiner before the bell rings and he punches Rick. Steiner with two clotheslines followed by a T-Bone suplex for a two count. Steiner punches Virgil and then hits a Death Valley Driver for the three count.
Winner: Rick Steiner
Match Number Three: Disco Inferno versus Koko B. Ware
Disco attacks Koko before the bell rings and connects with a series of punches. Disco mocks Koko’s dance. Ware with a hip toss and slam followed by a snap mare and kick to the groin. Koko misses a charge into the corner after an Irish whip. Disco with a choke and kick followed by a swinging neck breaker and side Russian leg sweep. Disco sets up for the ‘Disco’ elbow, but he misses when Koko moves out of the way. Koko with a series of punches followed by an atomic drop and a reverse atomic drop. Disco hits an elbow and then he goes up for the Chartbuster, but he misses. Koko with a bulldog for the three count.
Winner: Koko B. Ware
Match Number Four: Greg ‘The Hammer’ Valentine (with ‘The Mouth of the South’ Jimmy Hart) versus ‘Superfly’ Jimmy Snuka
Valentine and Snuka lock up and Valentine backs Snuka into the corner and there is a clean break. They lock up again and Valentine backs Snuka into the corner again for another clean break. Snuka backs Valentine into the corner, but Valentine puts Snuka in the corner and he connects with forearms. Snuka responds with a series of chops and Valentine goes down and then goes outside the ring to discuss strategy with Hart. Valentine returns to the ring and Snuka chops him again and Valentine goes outside the ring again to talk to Hart. Snuka follows Valentine outside and chops him. They return to the ring and Valentine with an elbow and then he goes up to the second turnbuckle and hits Snuka with a chop. Valentine continues the attack with elbows and a rear chin lock. Valentine goes for an elbow drop, but Snuka moves out of the way. Valentine works on Snuka’s leg for the figure four leg lock and then when he tries to apply the hold, but Snuka kicks Valentine off and sends him into the turnbuckle. Snuka chops Valentine and then Valentine falls on his face. Snuka goes up to the second turnbuckle for a chop. Jimmy Hart gets on the apron and Snuka pulls him into the ring. Snuka gives Valentine and Hart a double noggin knocker and then Snuka goes up top to splash Hart, but security tries to stop him. Valentine tries to protect Hart from any attack by Snuka. From out of nowhere, Tower comes out and he gets Hart out of the ring.
Winner: Jimmy Snuka (by disqualification) [might have been a no contest]
A video package was shown for the World Wrestling Council promotion in Puerto Rico.
Match Number Five: Eddie Colon (with Carlos Colon) versus Vampiro
Vampiro with kicks to Colon followed by punches and chops. Colon comes back with a rana, head scissors, and tilt-a-whirl head scissors. Vampiro regains control of the match with a back kick. Vampiro charges at Colon, but Colon sends Vampiro to the apron. Colon with a drop kick that sends Vampiro to the floor and then he hits a suicide dive onto Vampiro on the floor. Vampiro sends Colon into the guardrail. They return to the ring and Vampiro with a sledge and chop followed by a running boot to Colon. Vampiro continues the attack with a punch and chop. Colon responds with a punch of his own. Vampiro hits a big boot, but Colon responds with a chop. Vampiro with a bicycle kick. Colon with a drop kick and both men are down. Colon with a kick followed by a DDT for a two count. Colon with a back body drop and then he tries for a monkey flip, but Vampiro lands on his feet and he chops Colon. Vampiro misses a spin kick and Colon hits a springboard sunset flip for a two count. Vampiro with a drop kick followed by a pump handle driver. Vampiro goes off the ropes, but Carlos trips him from ringside. Security comes out to keep Carlos from getting involved in the action. Eddie with a drop kick to Vampiro’s leg followed by a chop and Irish whip. Vampiro with a boot, but Colon with a super kick. Vampiro recovers and hits a clothesline for the three count.
Winner: Vampiro
After the match, Carlos and Eddie with head butts to Vampiro.
Match Number Six: Kamala (with Friday) versus Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts (with bag)
Roberts with an arm bar, but Kamala with a chop and then he sees the bag in the corner and backs off Roberts. Kamala returns to the attack with an arm bar and chop. Jake gets the bag and gets Kamala to back off. Kamala returns to the arm bar, but Roberts gets out of the hold when he stomps on Kamala’s foot. Jake with punches to Kamala and then they lock up in a test of strength with Kamala getting the advantage. Kamala chops and punches Roberts and then he applies a nerve hold on Roberts. Kamala with a back kick and a splash. Roberts is able to roll to the ropes to avoid another splash. Friday brings the bag into the center of the ring. Kamala tries to splash the bag, but Roberts pulls it out of the way. Roberts with a DDT to Friday and then he opens the bag and he pulls out a snake. Kamala gets out of the ring and goes to the back while Roberts puts the snake on Friday.
Winner: Jake Roberts (by count out)
A video package is aired from Championship Wrestling in Florida.
Sal Corrente comes to the ring and he talks about three people that he considers to be legends. Those legends are Joe Namath, Julius Erving, and Bruno Sammartino. Sal mentions that he has been fortunate enough to meet and spend time with Joe Namath and Julius Erving. Then he brings out Bruno Sammartino.
Bruno gets on the mic and he says that he wrestled all over the world for twenty-five years, but he never wrestled in Orlando. He talks about going on a tour of the city during his time in Orlando for the show and he is glad to be here. Bruno mentions that after he retired he had some health issues. However, last year Sal contacted him to attend the WrestleReunion in Tampa and he agreed to go to the show. He had a great time and was able to see the Funks, Tully Blanchard, and the Armstrongs along with other wrestling legends. It brought back so many memories.
Sal got back on the mic and he brought out Dory Funk Junior.
Dory gets on the mic and he says that it is an honor for him to be in the same ring with Bruno. He mentions that he never wrestled Bruno despite the fact that they were wrestling at the same time. He tells Bruno that he is a legend and it is best that they never face off in the ring. Dory talks about Florida wrestling and mentions Eddie Graham and calls Eddie a genius who gave back to the community. Eddie raised his son to be a great wrestler. He bring out Mike Graham.
Mike Graham gets on the mic and he says that it is an honor to be in the same ring as Bruno and he is honored to be in the same corner as Dory Funk Junior tonight. Mike talks about his father and how the City of Orlando honored him by naming the place where wrestling was held in Orlando after Eddie Graham.
JJ Dillon comes out with Tully Blanchard and David Flair. Dillon says that he has a lot of respect for Bruno, but he should find a rocking chair.
Dory asks Bruno to be in his corner for his match. Sal says that as the promoter, he needs to make decisions on the fly and he announces that Bruno Sammartino will be in the Dory Funk Junior and Mike Graham’s corner.
Match Number Seven: Tully Blanchard and David Flair (with JJ Dillon) versus Dory Funk Junior and Mike Graham (with Bruno Sammartino)
Dory and Tully start things off. Tully with a side head lock, but Funk with a rollup. Funk with forearms to Flair and Blanchard. Blanchard with a snap mare to Graham, but he misses an elbow drop. Graham with a shoulder tackle to Flair followed by a side head lock take down and side head lock. Graham follows that with a knee to Flair. Funk tags back in and he gives Flair a side head lock take down. Flair with a chop and then Blanchard is tagged back in and he gives Funk a snap mare. Graham with a back body drop to Blanchard. Graham puts Flair in the Figure Four leg lock, but Blanchard breaks it up. Blanchard with a rear chin lock on Graham and then he hits the slingshot suplex. Funk with forearms to Flair followed by an elbow. Then Funk turns his attention to Blanchard and he connects with a forearm. Funk with the Figure Four to Flair, but Blanchard makes the save. Funk and Graham with atomic drops to Flair and Blanchard and Tully and David bump heads. Graham hits Blanchard and Flair with a shoe and then Funk gets a rollup on Flair for the three count.
Winners: Dory Funk Junior and Mike Graham
Match Number Eight: Diamond Dallas Page versus Chris Kanyon
Page and Kanyon start off the match by fighting into the crowd. They return to ringside and the referee calls for the bell. Kanyon kicks Page, but Page with a shoulder tackle and short arm clothesline. Page continues the attack with a discus clothesline and then he goes up for the punches of ten, but Kanyon with a hot shot onto the top turnbuckle. Kanyon drops Page across the top rope and chokes Page. Page punches Kanyon, but Kanyon regains the advantage in the match with a knee. Page tries for a sunset flip, but Kanyon does not go over and he drops down onto Page. Page is able to counter and he gets a rollup. Kanyon goes up to the second turnbuckle for a leg drop followed by a sleeper. Page slams Kanyon’s head into the turnbuckle and then Kanyon hits a side Russian leg sweep for a two count. Kanyon gets a chair from outside the ring, but when he tries to hit Page with the chair, he bounces the chair off the top rope and knocks himself out and Page gets a two count. Kanyon with a low blow and then he pulls out brass knuckles. Kanyon punches Page with the brass knuckles, but he only gets a two count. Page with a back body drop that sends Kanyon onto the entrance ramp. They fight outside the ring and Page with a biel that sends Kanyon off the stage and through a table on the floor. They return to the ring and Kanyon with a low kick and a DDT for a two count. Page hits the Diamond Cutter for the three count.
Winner: Diamond Dallas Page
After the match, Page gets on the mic and he says that it is good to be back in Florida since he started his career in Florida. He brings up the rumors about Kanyon and whether it is just the character or the person who is gay. He has known Kanyon for more than 10 years and they have been champions together. He wants to know if the person behind the Chris Kanyon character is gay.
Kanyon announces that he is gay.
Jim Cornette comes out with ‘Loverboy’ Dennis Condrey, ‘Sweet’ Stan Lane, and ‘Beautiful’ Bobby Eaton and he has something to say. He mentions that the Armstrongs have always been a thorn in the side of the Midnight Express while Bobby Heenan has been a thorn in his side. Tonight, Heenan and the Armstrongs will get themselves plucked.
Match Number Nine: The Midnight Express (‘Loverboy’ Dennis Condrey, ‘Sweet’ Stan Lane, and ‘Beautiful’ Bobby Eaton [with Jim Cornette]) versus The Armstrongs (Brad Armstrong, Steve Armstrong, and ‘Bullet’ Bob Armstrong [with Bobby ‘The Brain’ Heenan])
Brad slams Condrey followed by a drop kick and sunset flip for a two count. Brad follows that with a side head lock on Condrey. Condrey with a clothesline to Brad and then Eaton with an elbow to Brad. Steve tags in and hits a drop kick on Eaton and then he punches Condrey and Lane on the apron. Lane tags in and he has Steve in an arm bar followed by a side head lock and shoulder tackle to Lane and then Lane goes outside the ring. Bob tags in and he punches Lane and puts him in a side head lock. Bob punches Lane and Eaton and then Brad tags back in and he puts Lane in a side head lock. Lane kicks Brad. Condrey tags back in and he hits a Northern Lights suplex on Brad for a two count. Condrey continues the attack with a back rake and then while Condrey distracts the ref, Lane drops Brad on the top rope. Eaton tags in and he punches Brad and Brad goes outside the ring. Cornette hits Brad with the tennis racket outside the ring and then he kicks Brad. Lane with a kick and side Russian leg sweep to Brad when the action returns to the ring. Lane distracts the referee and that allows Condrey, Lane, and Cornette to triple team Brad. Condrey tags in and he kicks Brad followed by a drop toe hold and an elbow from Bobby. Brad with a suplex to Lane and then Bob is tagged in and he cleans house. All six men get in the ring and battle. Cornette comes into the ring and he hits Bob with the tennis racket. Heenan comes in and he pokes Cornette in the eye and then Bob gets the tennis racket and hits Eaton with it and gets the three count.
Winners: The Armstrongs
After the match, Cornette tells the referee that Heenan hit him and Heenan hits Cornette one more time.
Match Number Ten: Scott Steiner versus Marcus ‘Buff’ Bagwell
Before the match, Scott Steiner gets on the mic and he talks about his freaks and his peaks. Then he calls the crowd a bunch of rednecks. Buff gets on the mic and he says that he is a redneck and he is also ‘the stuff’. Steiner punches Bagwell before the bell rings and then Bagwell hits a drop kick and reverse atomic drop followed by an atomic drop. They fight outside the ring and Scott pushes the woman who accompanied him to the ring at Bagwell, but that does not stop Bagwell from slamming Steiner’s head into the ring post and then Bagwell kisses the woman. Back inside the ring, Steiner with a boot and a belly-to-belly suplex. Steiner throws Bagwell out of the ring and then he slams Bagwell’s head into the guardrail. Steiner with a kick once the action returns to the ring. Steiner with a clothesline followed by the ‘flex’ elbow drop and then he does some push ups. Steiner with a reverse chin lock followed by a kick and clothesline. Steiner and Bagwell each hit clotheslines and they both go down. Bagwell with punches followed an elbow and clothesline. Bagwell continues the attack with a swinging neck breaker and a modified Pedigree. Bagwell goes to the second turnbuckle, but Bagwell is pushed off the turnbuckle and Steiner hits an overhead belly-to-belly suplex and then Steiner puts Bagwell in the Steiner Recliner and Buff taps.
Winner: Scott Steiner
The Blue Meanie comes out and he says that it is time to find out who is mystery partner is going to be for this tag match against Russ Rollins and Marc Mero. His partner is the most hardcore man in wrestling and a former Hardcore champion. That man is ‘Screaming’ Norman Smiley.
Match Number Eleven: Blue Meanie and Norman Smiley versus Marc Mero and Russ Rollins
Smiley with an arm bar on Mero, but Mero with a side head lock followed by a shoulder tackle and hip toss. Mero with an atomic drop and dropkick. Smiley with a kick and European uppercuts. Mero with a tilt-a-whirl head scissors and an arm bar to Smiley. Rollins tags in and they hit a double elbow on Smiley. Meanie tags in and Meanie with a shoulder tackle, but Rollins does not go down. Meanie tries another one, but he gets the same result. Rollins with a shoulder tackle and Meanie goes outside. Meanie returns to the ring and Rollins with a side head lock. Rollins comes off the ropes, but Smiley with a knee to Rollins’s back from the apron. Meanie with a lariat to Rollins and then Smiley and Meanie work over Rollins in the corner. Smiley kicks Rollins and then Norman throws Rollins out of the ring to the floor. The action returns to the ring and Smiley with a snap mare to Rollins, but he misses a drop kick when Rollins holds on to the ropes. Mero is tagged in and he gives Smiley and Meanie knee lifts. Mero with a top rope hurricanrana to Smiley and he gets a two count. Meanie drops Mero on the top rope and Smiley with a slam to Mero followed by a butterfly driver for a two count. Mero throws Smiley out of the ring, but Meanie rakes Mero’s eyes. Mero with a clothesline to Smiley and Meanie. Mero tries to make the tag, but Rollins goes to the back. Meanie and Smiley punch Mero and Rollins returns with a trash can. Smiley and Meanie hold Mero for Rollins, but Rollins hits Smiley and Meanie with the trash can and Meanie gets pinned.
Winners: Russ Rollins and Marc Mero
6:05 Reunion Thoughts: This was a fun show to attend and I hope it looks good on television when it airs…..The floor seats were not sold out, but the empty seats were in the back rows so it might not be picked up on the camera shots. The balcony looked full from where I was standing. The general admission area was not as full as I thought it would have been for the show. There were a number of people at the show who attend the TNA tapings ‘next door’ at Universal Studios…..It was great to have the opportunity to see some of the wrestlers who were the reason why I started watching wrestling and have done so for the last two decades…..I thought the best match of the night was Vampiro versus Eddie Colon…..It was a good touch to have Kamala hesitant to go onto the side of the ring where the snake was placed and he played that up the entire match…..One of the reasons why I wanted to go to this show was to see Bruno Sammartino and it was definitely the highlight of the night for me. While I don’t think I ever saw Bruno wrestle in person, I grew up watching the WWWF since I lived in the northeast and the WWF was the first live show I ever attended. He looked like he could have wrestled for 20 minutes without any problem and it was great to hear him talk about wrestling….The other reason why I wanted to see this show was for Jim Cornette since he was one of my favorite managers watching the Crockett promotion in the 1980s. He has always been great on radio interviews that I listened to and he was another who did not disappoint…..The final match of the show was a ‘main event dark match’ and featured a local radio talk show host who is a wrestling fan. Russ Rollins was involved in an angle with TNA in the past as well….After the final match, Norman Smiley came over to a part of the general admission crowd that was cheering for him during the match. With his recent work in TNA, maybe he will be given the chance to work for one of the companies with television because he is still over with the crowd and still has something to offer in the ring
2007 - WWE held their Backlash PPV. Buck Woodward filed the following PPV report:
Welcome to our coverage of WWE Backlash. We will be updating this page throughout the evening with results from the show, so check back often!
Backlash opened with a video package about Wrestlemania and the events that have followed leading to the three main events tonight.
Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler welcomed us to the show, then tossed it over to Joey Styles & Tazz, who then tossed it to Michael Cole & JBL. I guess we won't have to worry about any announcers losing their voices tonight.
World Tag Team Champions Matt & Jeff Hardy vs. Trevor Murdoch & Lance Cade.
Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler called this one. Ross put over that Murdoch was trained by Harley Race and Cade was trained by Shawn Michaels. I believe that's the first time that has ever been mentioned on WWE television. Matt started off with Cade, with Cade backing Matt into a corner and breaking clean. They locked up again, and Matt grabbed a headlock and took Cade to the mat. There was a chant for the Hardys. Cade shoved Matt into the ropes and hit a back elbow, then decked Matt with a right hand. Matt came back with punches and hiptossed Cade, then gave Murdoch one when he ran in. Murdoch rolled to the floor, and Matt went back to the headlock. Cade pulled Matt into his corner by the hair and tagged in Murdoch. Murdoch missed a clothesline and Matt slammed him, then hit a fistdrop. Jeff tagged in and hit a slingshot dropkick on his way in. The Hardys hit Murdoch with an elbowdrop/legdrop combo for a two count, then a double elbow and a senton/fistdrop combo.
Jeff hit Murdoch with a Whisper In The Wind, which ended up more like a Blockbuster, but Cade broke up the cover. Cade and Murdoch were sent to the floor, and Jeff used Matt as a springboard to jump over the top rope onto both opponents. Back in the ring, Matt gave Murdoch a second rope elbow to the back of the head for a two count. Matt hit a clothesline in a corner, then went for a bulldog, but Murdoch shoved Matt into a corner and hit a clothesline to the back of the head. Cade and Murdoch double teamed Matt in their corner, and Cade went for a powerbomb, but Hardy reversed it into a Russian legsweep. Jeff tagged in and dropkicked Cade to the floor, then clotheslined Murdoch. Jeff tried for a kick to the floor, but Cade caught it and yanked Jeff down hard to the floor. Back in the ring, Cade hit Jeff with a spinebuster for a two count as Matt broke up the cover.
Cade slammed Jeff, then tagged in Murdoch and lifted him up for an elevated legdrop on Jeff. Murdoch gave Jeff a neckbreaker. Cade clotheslined Hardy for a two count. Jeff blocked a suplex attempt by Murdoch and rolled him into a small package for a two count. Murdoch came back with a boot to the face, then dragged Jeff to his corner to work him over more. Cade put Jeff in a chinlock, but Jeff got out with a jawbreaker. Murdoch tagged in and gave Jeff a back suplex for a two count. Murdoch hit some crossface blows, then tagged in Cade, who hit a knee to Jeff's back. Murdoch tagged right back in and stomped Jeff. Jeff kicked away a backdrop attempt by Murdoch. Cade tagged in, but Jeff hit him with an enzugiri. Murdoch tagged back in and knocked Matt off the apron and kept Jeff from making a tag. Murdoch went for a jump off the second rope, but Jeff got his feet up. Murdoch stopped himself, but missed an elbowdrop and Matt got the hot tag. Matt knocked Cade out of the ring and bulldogged Murdoch for a two count. Jeff went for a jump off of Matt on Murdoch in the corner, but Murdoch was moved by Cade and Jeff hit the corner hard (looked like he slipped, as he hit the middle turnbuckle). Matt hit a Side Effect on Murdoch, but Cade jumped off the top rope with a double axhandle to break it up. Murdoch hit a slow motion Canadian Destroyer for a two count on Matt.
Murdoch went for a fireman's carry, but Matt turned it into a Twist Of Fate. Cade pulled Matt to the floor from ringside, and while Matt fought Cade on the floor, Jeff hit Murdoch with a Swanton Bomb. Matt slid back into the ring after outpunching Cade and covered Murdoch for the win at the sixteen minute mark.
Winners: Matt & Jeff Hardy.
Backstage, Shane McMahon was psyching up Umaga. Vince McMahon showed up, wearing a skullcap. Vince said if they win the match tonight, they will put the ECW World Title on Shane McMahon. Shane seemed to like the idea, but then came back and said that after what Bobby Lashley did to Vince, he thinks Vince should be the ECW World Champion. Shane and Vince were both giving each other dirty looks behind the others' back.
Women's Champion Melina vs. Mickie James.
Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler call their second match of the night here. Melina grabbed a hammerlock at the start, but Mickie reversed out of it and grabbed an armbar. Melina reversed, but Mickie cartwheeled out of it and hit a monkeyflip. Mickie took Melina to the mat with a side headlock, but Melina grabbed a headscissors to get out. Mickie kipped up out of the headscissors. Melina hit a kick to the gut and took Mickie down with a headlock, and not it was Mickie using a headscissors to break out. Melina pulled out it it, then complained about being poked in the eye, which was a distraction for a sucker punch. Melina hit some shots, but Mickie came back with shoulderblocks in a corner and a monkeyflip, followed by a series of right hands. Melina came back with a shot to the throat, but Mickie kicked Melina as she charged at her. Mickie went to the top rope, but Melina shoved her off and Mickie fell hard to the floor.
Mickie made it back to the ring by the eight count and Melina threw Mickie by the hair for a two count. Melina choked Mickie on the ropes, then kicked her to the mat for a two count. Melina applied a full nelson with her legs, and rolled Mickie into a pinning position for a two count. Melina then used the ropes for leverage, but got caught, so Melina had to break the hold. Melina went for a suplex, but Mickie rolled her into a small package for a two count. Melina stood on the middle rope and picked up Mickie by the throat for a choke. Melina then drove Mickie to the mat with a vertical bodypress. Melina pulled Mickie by the hair and got a two count. Melina put Mickie in a crossface chickenwing, but Mickie broke out. Mickie went for a kick, but Melina caught it and yanked her to the mat, into a split. Mickie then swept Melina's leg and she fell into a split. Both women, on the mat in splits, started punching it out. Mickie got the better of the exchange, then hit a dropkick. Mickie hit a series of punches, tossed Melina by the hair, then hit a neckbreaker for a two count.
Melina kneed Mickie in the gut. Mickie caught a charging Melina in a headscissors, but Melina threw it off, sending Mickie to the apron. Mickie hit a forearm from the apron, then went to the top rope and hit a flying bodypress for a two count. Melina eye gouged Mickie, then hit a reverse DDT for the pin at the nine minute mark.
Winner: Melina.
Backstage, Maria interviewed Edge. Edge talked about how he wasn't tried tonight, while John Cena and Shawn Michaels had to battle for an hour last week. Edge said he would win his third WWE Title tonight. From her cleavage, Maria pulled out a question she was told to ask Edge, which was how he won his first WWE Title. Edge pointed out how he used his Money In The Bank match to win it, then wanted to know who told Maria to ask that question. She pointed behind Edge, where Ken Kennedy was standing. Kennedy said he hoped Edge wins tonight, and mentioned how brutal the bout will probably be, before patting his briefcase and walking away.
A long video package on The Condemned was shown.
United States Champion Chris Benoit vs. MVP.
Michael Cole and JBL call out third title match of the night. They locked up, and MVP broke clean on the ropes, then tried to grab a leg, but was stopped by the referee as they were in the ropes. They circled each other, and MVP threw some leg kicks. MVP went for a leg dive, but Benoit stuffed it. MVP went for a front facelock instead, but Benoit armdragged out of it, hit a second armdrag, then took him down with a drop toe hold. Benoit went for a Crippler Crossface, but MVP made the ropes and went to the floor to regroup.
MVP took Benoit down to the mat with a side headlock takedown, but Benoit grabbed a headscissors. MVP floated over and into a pinning position, but Benoit bridged up and grabbed a backslide for two, then hit a back suplex and applied the Sharpshooter. MVP crawled to the ropes to break the hold. Benoit hit a knee to the gut, then a knee to the head. Benoit went to chop MVP in the corner, but MVP covered up. MVP reversed a whip and sent Benoit chest first into the corner, then hit a boot to the back of the head for a two count. MVP hit some forearms on the mat, then applied a trapped arm cravate. Benoit elbowed out of it, but MVP hit a knee to the gut. MVP went for a boot to the face, but Benoit hit him with an elbow. Benoit then ran into a belly to belly suplex by MVP for a two count.
MVP hit a kick to Benoit's back, then applied a trapped arm chinlock. MVP hit an elbow to the back of Benoit's head, but Benoit responded with chops. MVP missed with a clothesline, and Benoit hit three consecutive German suplexes. Benoit called for the diving headbutt, but MVP latched onto Benoit's foot. Benoit lifted MVP up and hit a Northern Lights suplex, but MVP's feet were in the ropes. Benoit charged MVP, but MVP hit a Hot Shot for a two count. MVP hit a neckbreaker for a two count. MVP lifted up Benoit, but Benoit took him down with the Crippler Crossface. MVP made the ropes, then scurried to his feet so he could kick Benoit before he could get up. MVP snap mared Benoit and applied a reverse jujigatame armbar. MVP grabbed the ropes for leverage, but the referee caught him and made him break the hold. MVP hit Benoit with a running kick to the head for a two count.
MVP went for another boot, but Benoit ducked it and gave MVP five consecutive German suplexes. Benoit went to the top rope and dove off, but MVP got his knees up and caught Benoit in the gut with them. MVP applied a single leg crab, and Benoit struggled, with the crowd chanting his name. Benoit made the ropes to break the hold. MVP hit Benoit in the back and went for a vertical suplex. He lifted Benoit up, but Benoit hit him with knees to the head while being suspended upside down. MVP lost the suplex and Benoit was taking MVP to the mat for the Crossface, but MVP rolled out of it and looked to be going for the single leg crab again, only for Benoit to roll MVP over into a small package for a three count at the fourteen minute mark.
Winner: Chris Benoit.
Todd Grisham was going to interview John Cena, but Randy Orton interrupted him. Orton said that he and Cena had some things in common. Orton said he and Cena were young and handsome. He said they should get together tonight, take out Edge and Michaels, and then see who the better man is. Cena noted Orton's comments (handsome, get together, see who the better man is) and implied that Orton was homosexual. Orton said Cena had him all wrong, but Cena said he doesn't judge people, remarked about Orton's pose, and walked off. Orton said the only pose there would be tonight would be Cena lying down in the ring with Orton on top of him. Ron Simmons entered, looked at Orton (who realized what he had just said), and Simmons delivered the "Damn".
The events leading to Lashley vs. The McMahons & Umaga were recapped.
ECW World Champion Bobby Lashley vs. Umaga, Vince McMahon & Shane McMahon.
It was announced that the winner of the pinfall gets the ECW World Title. Joey Styles & Tazz are calling this match. No Armando Alejandro Estrada with Umaga, due to Lashley beating him up last week. Shane, Umaga and Vince all had their own entrance before Lashley came out.
Shane McMahon started the match with Lashley. Lashley hit a takedown and delivered some right hands, then hit a clothesline in the corner and stomped Shane down. Lashley hit a spinebuster, then pointed at Vince while Shane crawled to the floor. Shane got back in the ring and tagged Umaga. Umaga missed a charge and Lashley hit some punches, kicks and elbows. Umaga caught Lashley with a kick, then decked him. Umaga elbowed Lashley down and hit some punches. Lashley fought back, leapfrogged Umaga off the second rope, then hit a clothesline in the corner. Lashley went for a belly to belly suplex, but Umaga headbutted out. Lashley came back with a clothesline, sending Umaga to the floor. Shane ran in and Lashley hiptossed him over the top rope. Lashley dared Vince to come in. Umaga got on the apron, and Lashley knocked him down. Shane came in and Lashley suplexed him. Umaga ran in and charged Lashley, but Lashley moved and Umaga ran into Shane. Lashley hit Umaga with some punches. He went to rebound off the ropes, but Shane pulled down the top rope and Lashley fell to the floor.
On the outside, Umaga threw Lashley into the steps, then back into the ring. Umaga hit a legdrop, then whipped Lashley hard into a corner. Shane McMahon tagged in and put Lashley in a Fujiwara armbar, then switched to a hammerlock. Shane elbowdropped Lashley's arm, then applied an armbar with a headscissors. Lashley struggled in the hold for a while, then stood up, lifted Shane in the hold and slammed him down to the mat. Lashley covered, but Umaga broke it up. Umaga tagged in and hit a diving headbutt on Lashley. Umaga kicked Lashley, then stood on his throat. Umaga applied a bearhug, and Lashley struggled in that for a while. Lashley fought out, but Shane kicked him from the apron and Umaga planted him with a Samoan Drop. Shane tagged in and hit an elbowdrop, then drove some knees into Lashley's back. Shane hit a pair of elbows to the back, then drove in some forearms.
Shane applied a camel clutch on Lashley, and Lashley struggled in that hold for a while. Lashley eventually stood up and rammed Shane in a corner, then hit an exploder suplex, a shoulderblock and a clothesline. Lashley knocked Umaga off the apron, then backdropped Shane. Lashley put Shane in a Torture Rack, then dropped to his knees. Lashley went to cover Shane, but Umaga ran in and Lashley jumped up and speared Umaga. Lashley gave Shane a running powerslam, but Vince ran in and broke up the cover. Lashley and Vince went face to face. Lashley lifted Vince for a slam, but Shane hooked Lashley's leg and Umaga chopped Lashley to break it up.
The referee was getting Vince and Umaga out of the ring, and Shane hit Lashley with the title belt. Vince yelled for the tag, and Shane gave it to him. Vince covered, but Lashley kicked out. Vince got up angry, and Lashley cradled him from behind, but Shane broke it up. Vince tagged Umaga, who gave Lashley a top rope splash. Vince called for the tag again, and covered Lashley, but Lashley kicked out. Vince tagged in Umaga, who hit Lashley with another top rope splash. Vince tagged back in (actually, Umaga didn't even realize it at first, as Vince reached in and tagged him as he was standing near the corner), got the cover and won the match at the sixteen minute mark.
Winners: Umaga, Vince McMahon & Shane McMahon. Your new ECW World Champion is Vince McMahon.
Shane and Vince celebrated, then carefully shook hands with Umaga. Vince had the ring announcer reiterate that he is the new ECW World Champion. Vince paraded around ringside with the belt. Joey Styles and Tazz talked about the history of ECW, and how it has led to Vince McMahon being the ECW World Champion.
They plugged Judgment Day, which takes place in three weeks.
Vince McMahon (who never lost his do rag tonight) and Shane McMahon were shown in the back, and they sent Umaga to the showers. Sabu, Rob Van Dam, Sandman and Tommy Dreamer were standing in the back. Vince said he was an "Extreme" Champion. The McMahons mocked RVD and Sabu's poses, and Vince grabbed Sandman's beer and drank it. Shane and Vince chanted "E-C-Dub" as they walked away. Sandman moved like he was going to go after them, but Dreamer held him back and just glared at the departing McMahons.
The history leading to Batista vs. Undertaker was shown.
World Champion The Undertaker vs. Batista in a Last Man Standing match.
JBL and Cole had the call for this match, obviously. The only way for the match to end is when a wrestler is down for a ten count. Batista has his right thigh bandaged, Undertaker has his right elbow taped up. Batista ran right into a big boot by Undertaker at the bell, and the champion followed with some elbowdrops. Taker whipped Batista across the ring, but ran into a Batista elbow. Undertaker ducked a chokeslam, but Batista elbowed out of it. Taker hit a weak flying clothesline. Taker hit two headbutts, then went for the Old School ropewalk and hit the forearm to the back. Undertaker hit two more headbutts, but Batista reversed a whip and hit a powerslam, almost losing the handle. Batista actually told the referee to count him, and we're only three minutes in. Taker was up at six, and Batista knocked Undertaker to the floor. Batista went to ram Taker into the ringsteps, but Taker blocked it and rammed Batista into the steps. Undertaker hit some kicks and punches on the outside, including a kick to Batista's bad leg. Taker rammed Batista into the steps again, then kicked the bad leg twice. Batista fired back with punches, but Taker kicked his bad leg again.
Undertaker placed Batista on the ring apron and kicked him in the head, then delivered the ring apron legdrop. Undertaker went to whip Batista into the ring steps, but Batista reversed it and sent Taker knees first into the steps. Batista rolled Undertaker back into the ring. Batista started climbing the ropes, but Undertaker hit him with two punches. Undertaker set up for a superplex, but Batista threw some punches. Taker responded with headbutts, then took Batista down with the superplex. The referee counted, with Taker up at eight and Batista right behind him. Batista was favoring the leg greatly. They traded punches, and Batista ducked a shot and hit a clothesline. Taker got up at eight, and Batista hit another clothesline. Batista slammed Undertaker, then hit a legdrop... with his bad leg. Taker grabbed Batista by the trunks and pulled him through the ropes and to the floor. Undertaker pulled the top off of the Smackdown announce table and removed the monitors. Undertaker went for Batista, but Batista whipped him into the security wall. Batista went to slam Undertaker on the table, but Taker blocked it and gave Batista a backbreaker on the floor.
Undertaker grabbed a section of ring steps and hit Batista in the head with them. Batista was busted open, but got up before the ten count. Undertaker hit a series of punches, then put Batista on the announce table. Undertaker stood on the security wall, then legdropped Batista through the Smackdown announce table. Batista used the security wall to pull himself up at the nine count. Undertaker tossed Batista back in the ring and hit a pair of avalanches in the corner. Underaker hit Snake-Eyes, then went for a boot to the face, but Batista got a burst of adrenaline and hit him with a spear as he bounced off the ropes. Taker got up at seven, but Batista put him down with a spinebuster. Undertaker started to get up, and Batista gave him two spinebusters in a row. Undertaker got up at nine, and Batista went for the Batista Bomb, but Taker drove him into the corner. Batista went for a punch, but Undertaker ducked it and chokeslammed him. Both men were down. Taker got up at seven, Batista barely got up at nine. Undertaker stood on the second rope and hit some punches, but Batista pulled him off the ropes and powerbombed him. Batista was up at four, Undertaker barely got up at nine.
Batista went to ringside and grabbed a steel chair. Batista hit a chair shot to the head, then pulled Taker up off the mat and set up for a powerbomb on the chair. Undertaker blocked it and backdropped Batista, who hit his bad leg on the chair. Batista got to his feet, but Undertaker grabbed him and hit the tombstone. Batista managed to get up at nine, then slumped on the ropes. Taker kicked Batista to the floor, then punched him up the rampway. They made it to the entrance stage and Undertaker teased throwing him off. Batista fought back with punches, then set up for a powerbomb on the stage. Undertaker punched Batista's bad leg to escape, then kicked it. Taker hit a boot to the face, then a punch. Undertaker lifted Batista, but Batista floated over him. Batista speared Undertaker, and they both went off the stage. They went through a platform, and two sets of steel scaffolding that made up part of the set fell down. There was also that really silly pyro blast that goes off when guys get knocked "into production equipment". The referee counted both men out at the twenty one minute mark.
Result: Draw.
Undertaker slowly got up and rolled out of the wreckage. Batista did the same on the far side of the stage. Undertaker got his belt and walked off as they showed replays of the spear off the stage.
A commercial for The Condemned was shown.
They showed the results of a text message poll to pick a winner in tonight's final match. Cena got 50%, Michaels 34%, Orton 10% and Edge 6%.
The events leading to the Fatal Four Way match was shown.
WWE Champion John Cena vs. Edge vs. Randy Orton vs. Shawn Michaels.
Everyone stared at each other at the start. Michaels and Cena started talking. Edge and Orton approached them, and there was more talking. Michaels slugged Edge and Cena slugged Orton. Edge and Orton were knocked out of the ring, and Michaels started chopping Cena. Cena came back with a cradle suplex on Michaels for a two count, but Michaels gave him a neckbreaker. Orton came in and clotheslined Michaels. Edge attacked Cena. Cena and Michaels were knocked out of the ring, and Edge and Orton had a staredown. They began exchanging punches, and Orton hit a dropkick, knocking Edge to the floor. Cena threw Edge back in. Michaels pulled Orton out and they exchanged punches, then Cena clotheslined both of them on the floor. Edge then hit Cena with a baseball slide kick. All four men on the floor. Edge whipped Orton into the ringsteps. Edge slammed Cena, then Michaels slammed Edge. Michaels went to the top rope and did a moonsault to the floor on all three opponents.
Michaels threw Edge back into the ring, then chopped him. Edge fired back with a forearm and rammed Michaels into the top turnbuckle. Edge and Michaels clotheslined each other, so both were down. Cena came in via the top rope and gave Edge and Michaels simultaneous legdrops to the back of the head as they were getting up off the mat. Orton ran in and clotheslined Cena. Orton tossed out Michaels, then Edge. Orton and Cena slugged it out, and Orton hit Cena with a side backbreaker. Orton did the Garvin Stomp, then hit a knee drop for a two count. Cena mounted a comeback, but missed a charge and went shoulder first into the ringpost. Cena fell to the floor. Michaels got in and started trading shots with Orton. Michaels hit a flying forearm and kipped up, but Edge hit him with a heel kick. Edge covered Michaels, but Orton pulled him off. Edge pulled Orton off as he tried to cover him. Edge then tried to convince Orton to work together.
Orton and Edge whipped Michaels across the ring and stomped him. Cena got on the apron, but Edge knocked him back to the floor, and Cena bounced off the announce table. Orton pounded Michaels with punches. Edge and Orton whipped Michaels into a corner, then gave him a double backdrop. Orton and Edge applied a double team Boston Crab. Ross wondered who wins if Michaels taps out. Cena came in and hit a double Throwback on Edge and Orton to break up the move. Cena gave Edge and Orton clotheslines and shoulderblocks, then gave a shoulderblock to Michaels. Orton and Michaels rolled to the floor. Cena gave Edge a back suplex. Cena did the "You Can't See Me" and hit the Five Knuckle Shuffle fistdrop on Edge. Michaels and Orton pulled Cena to the floor and threw him into the ringpost. Michaels then threw Orton into the ring post.
Michaels threw Orton onto the Raw announce table. Michaels teased that he was going to give him a piledriver, but Edge gave Michaels a chairshot to the back to break it up. Orton gave Edge a thumbs up for the save, and Edge gave Orton a chairshot to the head. Edge got in the ring with the chair and went after Cena, but Cena gave Edge a drop toe hold and applied the STFU. Michaels was still out on the announce table, and Orton was out on the floor. Edge struggled and finally made the ropes for a break. Orton was slowly getting into the ring, and Cena tripped him and applied the STFU. Michaels came in, and Cena released his hold and went for Michaels' leg, but Michaels rolled him into a small package for two. Michaels hit a forearm on Cena and kipped up. Michaels gave Cena a reverse backdrop. Michaels gave one to Edge, then tossed him from the ring. Michaels gave one to Orton, then tossed him from the ring. Michaels slammed Cena, then hit a top rope elbow.
Michaels set up to give Cena a superkick, but Edge ran back in. Michaels dodged his charge, slammed Edge and gave him a top rope elbow. Orton rolled in and Michaels slammed him. Michaels headed for the top rope, but Cena stopped him and set up for a second rope FU. Edge and Orton grabbed Cena by the legs and fell backwards, so Cena was given a double back suplex and Michaels was on the receiving end of a second rope Samoan Drop.
Orton and Michaels rolled to the floor. Edge stumbled into an FU, but Edge countered, then Cena countered, then Edge countered, then Cena lifted Edge for the FU. Michaels ran in, and Cena lifted Edge AND Michaels, stacked up, for an FU. Michaels floated off and set up for a superkick, but Orton ran in and gave Michaels an RKO. Cena, seeing Orton covering Michaels, dropped Edge and broke up Orton's cover on Michaels. Edge gave Cena a DDT, but Cena kicked out.
Edge went for a spear on Cena, but Cena leapfrogged it, and Orton grabbed Edge for an RKO.
But, Edge shoved off Orton into Cena, who lifted Orton for an FU.
But, Orton floated over and went for the RKO on Cena.
But, Cena shoved off Orton, and Edge hit Orton with a spear.
Cena grabbed Edge and gave him an FU.
Michaels superkicked Cena, who fell on top of Orton, and fell down. The referee counted Cena's unconscious cover of Orton before Michaels could break it up and Cena gets the pin on Orton at the twenty minute mark.
Winner: John Cena.
They showed a lot of replays of the back and forth crazy finish. Back live, Michaels and Cena were left in the ring. Michaels and Cena exchanged words, while the announcers pointed out how Michaels had the match won but Cena lucked out with his cover of Orton. Michaels walked out, and stared at Cena from the stage, while Cena held the belt up in the air in the ring to end the PPV.
2008 - TNA X-Division Champion Petey Williams suffered a broken orbital bone at an Impact taping and is expected to need surgery, following a six way bout. Alex Hernandez filed the following results from the taping in Orlando, FL:
- Jim Cornette comes to the ring and calls out the eight participants in the Deuces Wild tournament and says he will announce two of the teams today. Sting and Cowboy James Storm are the first team picked. Storm says he doesn't want to be Sting's partner and he and Sting go to blows. They announce Sting vs. James Storm in a No DQ match later in the show.
- Jimmy Rave defeated Petey Williams, Curry Man, Johnny Devine, Shark Boy and Consequences Creed in a six-way non-title X Division match.
- Backstage, Jim Cornette announces to the Knockouts that there will be an "Immunity Pole Match" where the winner will be immune from getting her head shaved at the PPV.
- Gail Kim won the Knockouts Immunity Pole match featuring all the participants from the Sacrifice Hair match.
- Sting defeated Cowboy James Storm in a No DQ match.
- Cornette comes out to draw the next two names for the Deuces Wild tournament and picks Matt Morgan and Kip James. They start brawling with each other, so Cornette starts a match between the two.
- Matt Morgan defeated Kip James.
- Scott Steiner & Kurt Angle defeated Kevin Nash & Samoa Joe. Angle attacked Steiner after the match.
Xplosion Match: Motor City Machine Guns & Kaz defeated Black Reign, Rellik & Lance Hoyt.
2008 - WWE taped Smackdown in Atlantic City, NJ. Ashley Colton sent the following results:
- Teddy Long opens the show to announce the 3 titles will be defended.
- WWE Tag Team Champions The Miz and John Morrison defeated Shannon Moore & Jimmy Wang Yang.
- Armando Estrada came out as the Guest Ring Announcer for the next match.
- Vladimir Kozlov defeated Colin Delaney.
- They show Nunzio backstage getting ready, Mark Henry comes up to him. Apparently, it is Henry vs. Nunzio tonight.
- Victoria & Natalya Neidhart defeated Michelle McCool & Cherry. Neidhart pinned McCool with a rollup and a handful of tights.
- Recap of the World Heavyweight Championship match from Backlash. It's Undertaker vs. Great Khali tonight.
- Mark Henry defeated Nunzio. Nunzio stands on the ramp, waves out someone. Music hits... The Big Show... and he is in Nunzio's corner. Henry wins, stares down Show during the pin. Show enters ring... Henry backs off and leaves the ring. Show grabs the mic and says, 'why don't you try and pick on someone your own size'. Henry retreats up the aisle.
- Matt Hardy makes his first US Title defense next against MVP.
- Matt Hardy defeated MVP to retain the WWE US Title. Match went about 15 minutes, real solid match. Hardy wins with a Twist of Fate.
- In ring segment, Mick Foley interviews Batista. Reviews Batista's match from Backlash vs. Shawn Michaels. Batista says he respects Shawn, but doesn't like how he got to the top. Foley brings up the comments from Chris Jericho on RAW on the Highlight Reel and says the match has further controversy. Foley asks Batista if he thinks Michaels faked the knee injury to gain the victory at Backlash. Batista hopes for Shawn's sake he is hurt, cause if he isn't, he will be.
- Zack Ryder & Curt Hawkins defeated Jesse & Festus.
- Finlay defeated Julio Dinero with the Celtic Cross.
- Undertaker vs. Great Khali. Taker in ring, Edge & Vickie Guerrero on the stage. Vickie says that Taker is reckless, does not look out for his opponents and his submission move is now banned. If he uses it, he will have hell to pay. Vickie then says that because of his actions, Undertaker has been stripped of the World Heavyweight Championship and to bring it to her... he refuses. Khali comes out for the match. Taker puts the submission move on Khali, during this, Hawkins & Ryder hit the ring, take the World Heavyweight Championship and run up the ramp and give it to Vickie. Khali is choked out as Taker goes to head up the ramp after Edge. They escape. Taker looks back and returns to the ring. He chokeslammed a bloodied Khali and left him laying.
- No dark match.
2009 - Former AWA World Tag Team champion, as well as WWF and Portland Wrestling star Playboy Buddy Rose (Paul Perschmann) passed away. Rose, had been dealing with diabetic issues in recent years.
Rose originally broke into the business in the old Verne Gagne AWA, having been trained by Gagne and famed shooter Billy Robinson. He went on to become a true star heel for Don Owens' Portland Wrestling.
In his 2002 autobiography, Roddy Piper credited Rose for helping put him on the map in the Portland area, providing him a forum to hone his interview skills and become a true main eventer. Piper noted in the book that Rose invited him to come work the territory. Piper initially turned him down as he had been working regularly in Los Angeles, then reconsidered and took the job, setting him off to stardom.
Rose worked for the WWF at different points in his career. He was pushed as a top heel at one point in the late 1970s, including a series of matches against then-WWF champion Bob Backlund. Rose also wrestled on the first Wrestlemania event as the masked Executioner, losing to Tito Santana in the opening contest, becoming the answer to an immediate trivia question.
Rose's final run with WWF was as an undercard comedy heel who was out of shape, setting the stage for the infamous "Blowaway Diet" vignettes. During that run, he mostly worked comedic opening matches on house show, playing off his weight by doing jumping jacks and other exercises while on offense. The vignettes were so silly they ended up becoming memorable among fans.
Rose, who was considered a good talker and great bumper, also held the AWA World Tag Team championships with Doug Somers in 1986, defeating Scott Hall and the late Curt Hennig. They later dropped the belts to the then-Midnight Rockers, Shawn Michaels and Marty Jannetty.
What is believed to be Rose's last match took place at the first WrestleReunion convention event in Tampa, Florida in January 2005. Rose, long-time close friend Col. DeBeers (Ed Wiskoski) and Bob Orton lost to Jimmy Valiant, Roddy Piper and Jimmy Snuka in what was billed as Valiant's retirement match.
In recent years, Rose maintained an official website at www.playboybuddyrose.com. The website had noted that Rose was working on a book, which sadly was never finished.
2010 - A female friend claimed that she was in invited to a Sherman Oaks motel by former WWE Intercontinental champion Chyna, but when she arrived, she was immediately attacked, choked and beaten with a hanger. She escaped and tracked down two nearby police officers to file a report. The charges were never pursued.
2010 - WWE broadcast Superstars. Richard Trionfo filed the following TV report:
We start off tonight’s show with a look at the Raw brand and your announcers are Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler.
Match Number One: Gail Kim versus Jillian Hall
They lock up and Gail works on the arm and Jillian pulls Gail down to the mat by the hair but Jillian misses a handspring leg drop. Gail with an arm drag and forearm followed by an Irish whip. Gail tries for the running cross body into the corner but Jillian gets her knees up. Gail with a rana from the turnbuckles and then she tries for a victory roll but Jillian counters with an electric chair drop for a near fall. Jillian with a kick to the back followed by a slam and then she punches Gail. Jillian gets a near fall and then she tries to work on the back but Gail escapes the hold. Gail with a kick but she can’t get Jillian up because of her back. Jillian with a Samoan drop for a near fall. Jillian works on the back some more with her knee as she pulls the hair. Jillian with a forearm and hard Irish whip for a near fall. Jillian with a reverse chin lock but Gail tries to escape but once she does, Jillian pulls Gail down by the hair. Jillian charges into a boot but Gail cannot capitalize any more. Gail with a head scissors take down off the ropes. Jillian and Gail exchange forearms before Gail connects with a couple of clotheslines. Gail with a flying clothesline into the corner and then she hits a cross body but Jillian rolls through and gets a near fall. Jillian with a kick to the back and then she sets for the handspring back splash and she hits it. Jillian misses a charge into the corner and Gail hits Eat Defeat for the three count.
Winner: Gail Kim
It is time to take a look back at how the draft affected the rosters.
We go to commercial.
We are back and did you know about what the WWE does for the military?
Match Number Two: Zack Ryder with Rosa Mendes versus Primo
They lock up and Ryder backs Primo into the corner and Ryder pushes Primo but Primo pushes back. Ryder works on the arm and he puts Primo in an arm bar. Primo kicks Ryder off and he follows with a couple of arm drags into an arm bar. Ryder tries to throw Primo to the floor but Primo lands on the apron and then he hits a drop kick followed by an arm drag into an arm bar. Ryder with a kick to Primo but Primo back body drops Ryder over the top rope to the floor. Ryder moves out of the way when Primo sets for a suicide dive, but Primo stops and then hits a pescado onto Ryder. Primo rolls Ryder back in and gets a near fall. Primo with a diving shoulder into the corner followed by a forearm. The referee pulls Primo out of the corner and Ryder uses that to drop Primo on the top rope and then he kicks Primo to the floor. We go to commercial.
We are back and Ryder has Primo in a body scissors. We see footage from the commercial break when Ryder Irish whipped Primo into the apron. Primo tries to get out of the hold and he gets a jackknife cover for a near fall. Ryder with a flap jack for a near fall. Ryder uses his knee in Primo’s back and then he hits a baseball slide that sends Primo to the floor. Ryder sends Primo’s midsection into the apron as he continues to work on Primo. Ryder gets a near fall when he returns to the ring. Ryder with a seated abdominal stretch. Primo pulls Ryder’s hair to get out of the hold but Ryder with a hard Irish whip and Primo goes down again. Ryder goes to the turnbuckles but he misses a leg drop. Primo with a rollup for a near fall. Primo with a back slide for a two count. Primo with an inside cradle for a near fall. Primo with punches and then he hits a flying back elbow followed by a clothesline. Primo with a side Russian leg sweep followed by a cartwheel and then he hits a leg sweep and leg drop for a near fall. Ryder with an Irish whip but Ryder runs into boots from Primo. Ryder pulls Primo off the turnbuckles and he hits the Zack Attack for the three count.
Winner: Zack Ryder
We go to commercial.
We are back and we take a look at highlights from the Triple H/Sheamus match from Extreme Rules.
It is time for the Smackdown half of the show and your announcers are Todd Grisham and Matt Striker.
We see highlights from Raw when David Hart Smith and Tyson Kidd won the Unified Tag Titles. We then see footage of Big Show knocking Miz out with one punch.
Match Number Three: David Hart Smith and Tyson Kidd with Natalya versus Trent Barreta and Caylen Croft in a Non Title Match
Kidd and Barreta start off and Kidd works on the arm but Trent takes Kidd to the mat and works on the arm. Kidd with a wrist lock take down into an arm bar. Trent with a forearm and then he tags in Croft. Croft with a kick and knee to the head. Croft chokes Kidd and then he tags in Trent. Trent with a hip lock take down. Trent with a side head lock and shoulder tackle. Kidd with a back kick and then he hits a drop kick to the head for a near fall. Smith tags in and Trent retreats to the corner and Croft tags in. Smith with a slam and then he connects with a forearm and punch. Smith works on the arm and hits a key lock take down. Smith continues to work on the arm but Croft with a kick. Smith with a power slam and then Trent distracts Smith to allow Croft to attack Smith from behind. Smith goes to the floor and Trent with a running back elbow. We go to commercial.
We are back and Trent has Smith in a reverse chin lock. Trent with an elbow to Kidd on the apron but Smith with a back body drop and then Kidd is tagged in. Kidd with a springboard drop kick followed by a reverse atomic drop and back kick for a near fall. Trent with a pump handle gut buster for a near fall. Kidd kicks Croft but that allows Barreta to kick Kidd and hit a DDT on the apron. Croft tags in and he kicks Kidd on the floor. Croft gets a near fall and then he goes to the reverse chin lock. Croft runs Kidd into the corner and Trent is tagged in. Trent with a knee to Kidd’s head. Trent with a belly-to-back suplex and he gets a near fall. Trent with an Irish whip followed by a back elbow. Croft tags in and Trent sends Kidd into a drop kick for a near fall. Croft with a knee to the back and then he applies a cravate and then gets a near fall. Croft with an Irish whip and he kicks Kidd in the corner before slamming Kidd. Trent is tagged in and he slingshots in and lightly taps Kidd in the head. Kidd with forearms but Trent with knees to the head. Kidd sends Trent over his head and Trent hits the turnbuckles. Croft and Smith tag in and Smith with punches and a forearm. Smith with a clothesline and belly-to-belly throw. Smith sends Trent to the apron. Croft with a jawbreaker but Smith with a delayed vertical suplex for a near fall. Smith with an Irish whip and a running clothesline. Smith sets for the running power slam but Barreta pulls Croft to the floor. Natalya slaps Barreta and then Smith back body drops Kidd onto Croft and Barreta on the floor. Kidd with the springboard Hart Attack for the three count.
Winners: David Hart Smith and Tyson Kidd
2011 - WWE Studios' That's What I Am, featuring Randy Orton in a supporting role, was given a small theatrical release in ten markets. The film was easily the most well received critically of any WWE release to date, but fared terribly on the DVD market.
2011 - Dwayne Johnson has signed on to produce and star in a film on the life of African-American country music star Charley Pride. The film was yet to be made.
2011 - Combat Zone Wrestling star Nicholas "Nick Gage" Wilson was sentenced to five years in prison in the State Superior Court of Camden, New Jersey after having plead guilty to one second-degree count of bank robbery. Gage will not eligible for parole until serving 85% of that sentence, according to the Camden Prosecutor's Office. Gage was also ruled to be responsible for paying restitution of $3,095 to the PNC Bank branch in Collingswood, NJ that he robbed as well as $150 in lost wages to the bank teller, who later left her position with the branch after the robbery. In court, Gage was forthcoming about his addiction to painkillers and acknowledged that the time would serve him well in getting himself healthy, according to the Prosecutor's office. Gage turned himself in shortly after his photo was publicly disseminated by the authorities. Prosecutors noted that they received calls from a number of wrestling fans that recognized Gage from his exploits in CZW. In an interview after he was taken into custody, Gage spoke of his painkiller addiction, but noted he did not blame it on his professional wrestling career.
2011 - WWE announces it is launching the "Be A Starr" anti-bullying campaign with the following press release:
WWE issued the following today:
The Creative Coalition and WWE Launch Anti-Bullying Alliance
STAMFORD, Conn., April 29, 2011 – The Creative Coalition and WWE (NYSE:WWE), announced today the launch of “be a STAR,” a multi-platform, nationwide anti-bullying alliance, in conjunction with the National Education Association Health Information Network (NEA HIN), GLAAD, True Educator Inc., Ad Council, Island Def Jam Music Group, Close Up Foundation and others.
The mission of “be a STAR” —which stands for ‘Show Tolerance And Respect’—is to ensure a positive and equitable social environment for everyone regardless of age, race, religion or sexual orientation through grassroots efforts beginning with education and awareness. “be a STAR” will promote positive methods of social interaction and encourage people to treat others as equals and with respect because everyone is a star in their own right.
For its first initiative, the alliance will unveil a free anti-bullying curricula created by NEA HIN that will debut at an inaugural event this evening at The Washington Club in Washington, DC. The teacher’s aide aligns with national education standards to complement curriculums, and consists of nine lesson plans that teachers can access at www.beaSTARalliance.org. The lessons will focus on bullying, cyber-bullying, and equality and utilize an interdisciplinary teaching model across Social Studies, Language Arts and Health.
The teaching aide complements the new WWE Studios and Samuel Goldwyn Films “That’s What I Am” starring Ed Harris, Chase Ellison, WWE Superstar Randy Orton® and Amy Madigan. The new release is an anti-bullying, coming of age story that was a Centerpiece film at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and accepted at the Palm Springs International Film Festival.
“Every seven minutes a child is bullied. It’s time to stop that clock. We're proud to be an architect with WWE of ‘be a STAR’. The Creative Coalition's role is to employ the arts as a powerful resource in the "toolbox" to combat the bullying epidemic. We hope to use the unique platforms of the entertainment industry to encourage and reach children across the country to stand up to bullying,” said CEO of The Creative Coalition Robin Bronk.
“WWE is honored and thrilled to partner with The Creative Coalition, the National Education Association Health Information Network and our other partners, in an effort to change the way people interact and treat others,” said Stephanie McMahon, Executive Vice President, Creative Development and Operations, WWE. “Through the joint efforts of the ‘be a STAR Alliance’ organizations, we hope to reach millions encouraging them to stop bullying and ‘be a STAR.’”
“Bullying is unacceptable, but even more important – it is preventable. This film reminds us of what we can accomplish when students and adults stand up to bullying, said Jerry Newberry, NEA HIN’s Executive Director. “We are thrilled to be involved with the ‘be a STAR’ Alliance’s efforts and to work with organizations that share our vision for preventing bullying.”
2011 - WWE held their annual stockholder's meeting in Stamford, CT. Mike Johnson penned the following highlights from the company's presentation: WWE introduced all of the executives that were present for the meeting, including Vince McMahon, Stephanie McMahon, Kevin Dunn, Basil Devito, Triple H , George Barrios and Michelle Wilson, among others. Triple H was introduced as the "Senior Advisor to the Chairman's Office"
After the board handled some internal business, Vince McMahon was introduced. McMahon joked that they had rotten tomatoes in the back in case any stockholder wanted to take aim at him for the dividend change and promised to stay at the end to accommodate any upset holders.
McMahon said the reason for the change was that they have a better way in returning shareholders' values than just paying a dividend. He said they have a better way that would be explained in terms of acquisitions and investing in themselves.
George Barrios, the CFO of WWE, took over and explained that the new dividend will pay stockholders .12 cents a quarter. Barrios said he wanted to explain why the change was made. He said that the rationale was that they wanted to size it to the company's cash flow. He said the new dividend gives them the flexibility to invest in their future. He said that they want to make sure that the company can always support its own solvency in the long-term after the recent economic upheaval everyone has gone through. They want to make sure the company is always liquid. He noted they need to continue to invest and grow the company's core business. He said that they need to support their internal projects, such as digitizing their library, which is almost completed. He said they want to come up with ways to leverage the scale of their company, whether its live event, home video or new ways of creating content. He said they all this will allow them to return capital to shareholders.
Vince asked Barrios to take questions on the changes.
It was noted that Wall Street is worried about WWE's guidance going forward and asked for a prediction going forward. They declined to discuss future earning projections and said everyone in involved in a very low period. Barrios noted that there is a land grab for content with all the new platforms going on and right now, they are in a great place as a content owner that has a lot of content and 100% ownership of that content.
A stockholder asked about changed in the Board over the last year. Barrios said that the company always has changes to do the best it can and others make personal decisions. Barrios declined to comment on others' decision.
A stockholder asked about the company's balance sheet. Barrios said that the sheet is good and they have no debt right now. He went for awhile about the company's financials.
A stockholder praised them for cutting the dividend given the environment in the world today.
It was noted the company paid $36 million in taxes last year and asked why they still feel the need to be a public company since they could easily buy out the minor shareholders. Barrios quoted Vince and said that The Board thinks about its capitol structure a lot. Vince however likes the halo effect and the discipline that being a public company brings to the company and that it brings good management to the company. He said that Vince also likes being involved in the capitol and equity markets.
A stockholder suggested studying "ancient versions of wrestling such as Japanese and Greco-Roman" styles to improve the company.
A stockholder asked about the new business model for WWE. Barrios said Michelle Wilson would discuss it in detail but they want to grow the company.
The WWE Studios division was brought up. The stockholder asked whether the company was sticking to budget to prevent them from losing money as they had on some of the older projects. They are trying to spend a net $5 million on each project. Barrios said that as they've moved their Studios model from a license model where they partner with others and recorded WWE revenue after the partners made their money, now they everything comes on their books as a self-distributed model. They will tend to have a loss on release because the remaining revenue comes later (DVD, etc.) so the financials will be tough to read as they continue to convert to the new model. They are managing the Studio to deliver them more than they spent on the projects.
Barrios was asked if there was any talk of spinning off some of the lesser sections of the company. Barrios said they want to grow for the long term. You will invest in some areas and not invest in others at time. They want to do what they can to grow the business.
WWE's Chief Marketing Officer, Michelle Wilson, explained the company's vision for the "New WWE."
Wilson said that the company's management team got together towards the end of the year to look at ways to challenge themselves and find new opportunities. The changes are about fixing and growing their core business. They also wanted to find new business opportunities to grow WWE into being more than a "wrestling organization".
She noted they company will be known as WWE going forward. She said they will never take their eye off the ball of wrestling but they position themselves as KFC or Apple, branding themselves beyond their core product while also building the company in new ways.
Michelle explained they were going to develop a new talent development process and they were re-focusing on developing talent with Triple H going forward.
Wilson discussed the debut of WWE's Tough Enough, saying it's bringing 3 million viewers to the company outside of their core product and they are going to continue to create new programming outside of their normal base.
Wilson discussed their licensees, noting Mattel (toys), THQ (videogames) and they will continue to innovate on those levels. Wilson noted their new partners, including K-Mart, who are investing in their television product, live events and advertising within their own stores. M&M Mars has returned as a sponsor as well.
Wilson said they are looking for new opportunities. "Content will remain king." They will be using traditional means as well as new content providers, noting Netflix, Google and Amazon looking for content. She noted they will continue to seek out new ways to provide WWE programming going forward.
The WWE Network was brought up next. She said that the WWE Network was a natural evolution and they hope to launch in 12-18 months, "whether it be a traditional format or an alternative format, as I just mentioned."
Wilson said they want opportunities to use their core competencies, in production, licensing and marketing. Wilson said they could go out and identify other companies who's intellectual properties aren't being "leveraged and maximized" as much as they could be. She said they could put them through the WWE model, bringing more revenue to WWE.
Wilson also mentioned acquisitions in the content front. She noted it could provide growth here in the United States and internationally.
Wilson closed out with an announcement that they are excited to announce that the preliminary buys for Wrestlemania are up 30% domestically and they are "confident" they will break the one million buys mark.
During the meeting, the floor was opened for questions from stockholders:
Vince McMahon was asked about WWE's relationship with the Rock, specifically whether the company's new deal with him was cost-effective, since they obviously were having to pay a high premium for someone of his current stature. McMahon responded that he and Rock are working on a handshake deal and that is "how they have operated for a long, long time." McMahon said it's all based on increased value. He said that if there is a higher percentage in terms of growth in terms of what they would "normally expect", Rock is "going to get a piece of that". McMahon said their net was going to be much higher and he and Rock were proud of that.
How the other WWE PPV events were doing compared to the past was brought up. McMahon said the PPV business is down but he's hoping that Wrestlemania's PPV numbers will be a kickoff for a new year in terms of numbers for the company's PPV events.
McMahon was asked whether Smackdown had retained its audience in the transition from MyNetworkTV to SyFy, McMahon said that the show has just about the same penetration now and they are very happy with SyFy, stating that they have "been the number one show on the network" since they've debuted there. He said if there's been any change in distribution, it's offset by the advantages of being under the NBC Universal family through promotion. McMahon noted that the syndicated network system, such as MyNetworkTV, is in trouble. Being on SyFy gives them longevity and provides them with non-preemptive status (i.e. they won't be bounced out their timeslot), which is "so important" to the company. He explained how they would often be bounced for sports programming on MyNetwork and the audience would be diluted when they were moved out of the slots.
Triple H's international development of talent was brought up, as was the idea of launching other groups in other countries with locally cultivated stars. McMahon said that there will be a more aggressive attempt to bring in international talents and grooming them, but they need to become stars here, because if they are, they will be stars elsewhere. McMahon said that with Miz, Alberto Del Rio and Sin Cara, you are seeing talents on the "fast track" to becoming the new "Rocks and John Cena of the day."
The company's intellectual property was brought up and McMahon was asked what the biggest problem in terms of protecting it is. McMahon said piracy and that they have a very aggressive group that handles that aspect. They noted piracy is incredibly difficult outside the U.S. as well as inside of the country. There's no silver bullet that can stop it. The hope is that as countries become more developed as markets, they will help crack down on it. McMahon noted that they just went on the air in Russia and Brazil "but we've been there a long time." He said the best way to fight piracy in other countries was to actually bring the content to the countries.
In regard to expanding and re-branding the company, McMahon was asked whether he had learned anything from past failures like the XFL and the WWE restaurant. McMahon said that when you think about it, none of those ventures have used the core competencies of the company as their current plans. He said that they have no interest in going back into football or opening a restaurant, noting that they "had to inherit that business right before we went public." He also noted there was no interest in returning to bodybuilding. He said they aren't looking to invest into anything like that but acquisitions that they can "fit what we do" and things "we can, in essence, flip the model on". McMahon explained that they can acquire the license of an property and then run it through the same system of distributions, context and partners that they put the WWE property through.
A stockholder referred to the current WWE product as "1970s/1980s comic book campy" and that some viewers feel that the "scripts are belittling the watcher." He mentioned the PG content of the show and asked if there were any plans to maintain PG but drive the show closer to what made the 1990s so enjoyable for adults. McMahon said, "It's important that you sometimes go backwards to go forwards." He said they were so far from PG that you had to go back. McMahon joked, "Where do you go after a chainsaw?" He said you have to go back to your roots to go forward. He said that they have no plans currently to ever go back to where they were in terms of an adult product but there are ways to advance the product. He said they listen to their audience and commented, "There's no doubt we could have a more aggressive and more sophisticated product that encompasses all of our ages as opposed to just strictly our PG audience. We are opening it up again, not to a great extent, but again one that is certainly not insulting to any facet of our audience. We are broadening a bit."
Another stockholder followed up on the conversation, noting that some of the matches held in the past were passionate, bringing up Austin vs. McMahon and HHH vs, Undertaker as examples. He commented that matches like "Michael Cole vs. Jim Ross" lacks that passion and drive that "wrestling fans come to love and enjoy." McMahon said that it's important to reach, from a demographic point, everyone like a menu at a diner. He said HHH vs. Taker was very passionate and serious but they had Cole to provide something else. He said that they are in the entertainment business and there's always going to be a balance. McMahon said he would personally prefer more from the serious side but WWE's E is for entertainment and there always has to be that balance.
Another stockholder brought up the "lack of build-up to PPVs" as a problem the company has. McMahon said that they try to do things long term in terms of building an attraction. He said that they attempt to have a longer range approach to story arcs but with as many PPVs as they produce, sometimes there are difficulties doing that.
A stockholder brought up running Extreme Rules the same weekend as UFC, noting that in the past, such events being held the same weekend has been detrimental to WWE's PPV buyrates. He asked whether there were future plans to avoid running the same weekend. McMahon said that there were plans to do so and they have been successful in recent months to avoid running head to head. He said that it wouldn't matter if it was UFC, boxing or another major event, because the events all eat up the promotional time that is given to them by cable companies. He said that they share all of that and that's what becomes difficult. He said that they can't control that they have gotten better at it.
Demographics were brought up, noting that more women were watching the product last year, something that the company touted last year in their stockholder's meeting. They were asked if the rebranding would change that. McMahon said that he hoped that Tough Enough and other new programming preceding Raw would bring in new demographics. He noted that TE has shown to have more females watching than men. He said that women have tremendous influenced in what is bought, so its important to have the right image, but not at the expense of the male demographic. Vince said that they want to grow all of their demographics.
Sponsorships were brought up. A stockholder asked why energy drinks and Budweiser aren't spending money with the WWE product. He also asked about the K-Mart sponsorship. Michelle Wilson, the company's Chief Marketing Officer, discussed the partnership and how K-Mart's awareness on their website and live events will benefit their retail outlets. She said it was a unique deal in that it was done jointly with the USA Network. She said that they, as a property, are one stop shopping, unlike sports products, since they can get talent appearances, TV awareness and live event awareness in one place. She said they have signed a similar deal with Mars and they are making progress in educating potential partners of what they have to bring to the table. She announced they have come to an agreement with Miller to do a summer promotion with the Keystone Light brand and they are looking to use some talents as part of that agreement.
McMahon said that PG doesn't have to mean kids, it just means PG. He said that if you are TV-MA, certain sponsors aren't going to touch you. He said that WWE can be aggressive but also fun. He said that it's important that the company doesn't do something outlandish that can put a blemish on their sponsors and partners. He said that they are attracting more sponsors because of their dedication to putting on a PG product for everyone.
McMahon was asked about PPVs like Extreme Rules without blood. McMahon said that you don't need blood to have shows of that nature. He said Extreme Rules is extreme on your body and joked that he can attest for that. McMahon said that people don't buy PPVs to watch others bleed but to be entertained. The PPV will be a different way to enjoy WWE.
A stockholder asked about how the loss of WGN affected the company and why it came suddenly. McMahon said that it wasn't sudden. He said that Tribune is "challenged" in terms of what it can acquire in terms of programming. McMahon said that they do have a place for WWE Superstars and for new programming that they develop and "it's not going anywhere."
Vince was asked when he was going to "buy that company based in Nashville, TN because they have the wrong people running it. Please save the business from Dixie Carter." McMahon laughed. The stockholder said, "Stephanie has more brains than Dixie Carter has." They showed Triple H and Stephanie laughing at this development. The stockholder said that if WWE bought TNA now, there "was a shot at fixing that company." Vince said, "I don't know they are for sale." The stockholder said, "It's a 50/50 shot, they know you are loaded with money." McMahon said, "Maybe."
A stockholder asked why they are using this smaller space as opposed to the old facility in the production studio, where they used to meet. McMahon said that space was being used and if they wanted to go to a bigger space, they could but Vince liked it dirty and cozy.
2011 - WWE broadcast Smackdown. Richard Trionfo filed the following TV report:
We begin this week’s episode of Smackdown with a look back at Raw and the how the draft affected Smackdown. What about Brodus? What about the Supplemental Draft?
We have a new video to accompany the theme song with the new members of the Smackdown roster already added.
We are live on tape from Greensboro, North Carolina and your announcers are Josh ‘I can do a moonsault’ Mathews, Booker ‘I can do a Spinaroonie’ T, and Michael ‘I can spit my teeth out like chiclets’ Cole.
The World Title Belt is above the ring because there is a ladder match on Sunday.
Randy Orton comes to the ring for the first time as a Smackdown superstar since the draft and he is still wearing his brand new blue Smackdown shirt.
Orton appreciates the ovation and then he introduces himself to the people who might not know him. He tells us that he is Randy Orton in a vintage Orton cadence. For the first time in almost five years, he is back on Smackdown. Randy says that he is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead, he has to deal with some unfinished business at Extreme Rules with CM Punk.
Before he can talk about Sunday, he is interrupted by Drew McIntyre in his snazzy Red Raw shirt. He asks if he bought a ticket to see the people in the crowd. Drew points out that Randy Orton is on Smackdown. With the good news comes the bad news for the fans. Drew says that he is moving onwards and upwards to Monday Night Raw. Drew says that it is a shame because the WWE Universe will have to wait a little bit longer for Drew McIntyre versus Randy Orton.
Drew gets in Randy’s face and the fans want an RKO. Drew says that he can see the look in Randy’s eyes but he is just out here to say hello and goodbye. Drew with a kick and then he sets up for the Future Shock DDT, but Orton escapes and counters with an RKO.
Orton continues his remarks about CM Punk, but he is interrupted this time by Alex Riley in his brand new Smackdown shirt. Riley is about to make his first remarks as a member of the Smackdown roster, but Orton does not have time to listen to Alex Riley and he gives Riley an RKO.
Orton looks like he is enjoying his time on Smackdown and he figures he will try to talk again about Extreme Rules, but he is stopped by Alberto Del Rio who walks out with Ricardo Rodriguez and Brodus Clay.
Alberto reminds who he is, but we already know that, especially Randall. Alberto says that he sees that Randy is making a great first impression, just like Alberto did on his first night on Smackdown. Alberto says that he feels bad for the people on Smackdown because they are losing him. After Sunday at Extreme Rules, they are going to lose the World Heavyweight Title because he is going to take it with him to Raw. Alberto tells Randall that he knows how to make a great first impression, but he knows how to make a lasting one.
Alberto, Brodus, and Ricardo enter the ring and surround Orton. Christian comes to the ring to help Randy.
Teddy Long’s music plays and he comes out. He tells the playas in the ring to wait. He says that it might be a new era on Smackdown, but we are going to play by his rules. Teddy tells the playas that the main event tonight will be a tag match. Alberto Del Rio and Brodus Clay will face Christian and Randy Orton.
Alberto winks at Orton and then gets out of the ring before Orton can do anything to him. Clay gets sent to the floor by a Christian drop kick.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Did You Know that the WWE Slingshot application is very popular around the world?
Match Number One: Kofi Kingston versus Sheamus
Kofi comes to the ring first and he is attacked from behind by Sheamus with a clothesline to the back of the head. Sheamus sends Kofi into the apron and then the ringside barrier. Sheamus with knees to Kofi as he shows no mercy on the former Intercontinental Title.
Sheamus sends Kofi into the ring steps as the referee warns him. They return to the ring and Sheamus sets up for the Brogue Kick and he connects.
Sheamus stands over Kofi while the referees check on Kofi.
We go to commercial.
Michael Cole is in the ring and he is showing the wounds from his battle on Monday night. He tells everyone to show some respect because Mr. Wrestlemania is talking. He wants to introduce his trainer, his friend, and his tag team partner at Extreme Rules. He is the man who will sit back while Cole single handedly picks apart the Royal Imposter Jerry ‘the King’ Lawler. The man who will sit back and watch him single handedly dissect that fat, barbecue eating, bulbous, pork pulling sow who responds to the call of Sooie.
Swagger comes to the ring in his Raw t-shirt and he does some push ups on the ramp. He enters the ring and then him and the boy blunder do laps around the ring.
We see highlights of the first time that Sin Cara and Jack Swagger met in a ring.
Match Number One (take two): Jack Swagger with Michael Cole versus Sin Cara with El Trampolino Bueno
Swagger with a kick and front face lock. Swagger backs Sin Cara into the corner. Swagger punches Cara in the corner. Swagger tries for a slam but Cara gets loose. Cara with kicks and then he moves when Swagger tries for a splash in the corner. Cara uses the ropes for an arm drag but Swagger recovers and hits a clothesline.
Swagger with an elbow drop to Cara and then he gives him another. Swagger does push ups on top of Cara and Cole applauds his approval. Swagger with an Irish whip and Cara hits the turnbuckles in the sternum. Swagger with another Irish whip. Swagger with a slam and it is time for the double jump Swagger Bomb but Cara gets his knees up. Cara with kicks to the leg and a back heel kick to the midsection. Cara with a handspring back elbow followed by a tilt-a-whirl head scissors.
Swagger sends Cara to the apron but Cara with an enzuigiri. Cara misses a springboard move when Swagger moves. Swagger with a boot to the head and then while the referee checks on Cara, Cole gives Swagger a strap. Cara with a rollup for the three count.
Winner: Sin Cara
After the match, Swagger tries to attack Cara but Cara drops down and Swagger goes to the floor. Cara hits a cross body onto Swagger.
Cole yells at Swagger about the loss and tells Swagger to prepare for Sunday.
Big Show and Kane walk in the back as we go to commercial.
We are back with the latest Kharma video package.
We see footage from last week when Show and Kane beat Gabriel and Slater to become the new tag team champions. We also see the problems within The Corre.
Match Number Two: Kane and Big Show versus Justin Gabriel and Heath Slater for the WWE Tag Team Titles
Slater and Show start things off. Show with a kick and punches in the corner. Show with an Irish whip but he runs into a boot. Show gets Slater up for a slam but Slater escapes and he clips Show. Gabriel tags in and he hits a missile drop kick and then he peppers Show with a series of kicks to get a near fall. Show sends Gabriel to the floor with a kick out as we go to commercial.
We are back and Slater with a DDT to Show for a near fall. Gabriel tags in and he tries for a double sledge form the top. Show grabs Gabriel by the throat but Gabriel counters with a DDT and gets a near fall. Gabriel with a kick to the head and then he tries to choke out Show with a sleeper. Show is able to get to his feet and then he hits a side slam and both men are down.
Slater wants Gabriel to make the tag while Show struggles to get to Kane. Kane and Slater tag in. Slater tries to float over and Kane catches him. Slater gets away from Kane but he runs into a boot and Kane gets a near fall. Kane with an Irish whip and clothesline into the corner followed by a side slam for a near fall. Kane goes up top for the clothesline and he hits it. Kane signals for the choke slam and Gabriel tries to interfere but Kane grabs Gabriel by the throat. Slater and Gabriel get out of the choke slam. Show gets into the ring and they get Slater and Gabriel up for a double choke slam. Kane gets the three count on Slater.
Winners: Kane and Big Show
Kane and Runjin Singh are in the back talking. Rey Mysterio stops by and interrupts the conversation in Hindi. Khali wishes Rey best wishes on Raw. Singh is shocked to see Jinder Mahal in the building. Singh says hello and shakes his hand. They continue to speak in Hindi. Mahal leaves and Khali and Singh continue to talk in Hindi as we go to commercial.
We are back and we take a look back at what happened last week on Smackdown when Rhodes attacked Rey and put a paper bag over Rey’s head.
Before Rey’s final match on Smackdown, he wants to address the fans. Rey says that it is going to be hard to leave these guys. Ever since he has been a part of Smackdown he has been able to entertain the fans every week. He says that he has enjoyed every single minute of it. Rey says that they have had a lot of fun together. Rey reminds everyone that they won the World Title together. Just because he got drafted to Raw, it doesn’t mean their journey has ended. The journey continues on Sunday at Extreme Rules when he defeats Cody Rhodes. Tonight, they will celebrate. It does not matter if he is on Raw or Smackdown, everyone will be a part of the 6 . . . 1 . . . 9.
As Mark Henry comes to the ring, we see the highlights from the main event on Monday’s Raw when he attacked John Cena and Christian.
Mark says that it is unfortunate for Rey that his farewell is his debut.
Match Number Three: Rey Mysterio versus Mark Henry
Henry misses a charge into the corner and Rey with kicks. Henry chokes Rey and the referee warns him. Rey goes to the floor to recover. The referee starts his count and he eventually returns to the ring. Rey kicks Henry and then he slides through Henry’s legs but Henry with a body block. Henry pulls Rey to the ropes and he stands on Rey’s chest. Rey goes to the apron and Henry brings him back into the ring. Rey with kicks but Henry with a clothesline to the back of the head. Henry throws Rey under the bottom rope to the floor. Henry goes to the floor after Rey and Rey with a drop kick to the knees. Henry pushes Rey into the ring steps but Henry misses a charge and he hits the ring steps with his knee and Henry goes down. We go to commercial.
We are back and Rey kicks Henry and then he hits a baseball slide into the corner. Rey goes to the apron and he goes up top but Henry trips Rey and Rey gets crotched. Henry with a splash into the corner while Rey was still draped over the top turnbuckle. Henry gets a near fall. Henry with a head butt to Rey and then he kicks Rey as he starts to toy with Rey. Henry sends Rey into the turnbuckles and then he stands over Rey for a seated splash but Rey moves out of the way because Henry takes too long. Rey with a drop kick to Henry followed by a seated splash of his own from the top but Rey can only get a near fall. Henry misses a splash in the corner and Rey drop kicks Henry into the ropes. Rey hits the 619 but before he can go up top, Cody Rhodes makes his way to the ring and he attacks Rey and pulls him off the apron. The referee calls for the bell.
Winner: Rey Mysterio by disqualification
After the match, Cody punches Rey and then he throws Rey into the crowd. Cody head butts Rey with his mask and then he punches Rey as they continue to battle in the crowd. Cody pulls Rey up the steps but Rey tries to fight Cody off. They return to the ringside area and Cody continues to assault Rey. Cody sends Rey into the ring and Mark Henry hits the World’s Strongest Slam. Henry goes to the back and then Cody goes into the ring with a paper bag and he puts it over Rey’s head.
Cody realizes that people can see his face so he tries to hide from everyone as he leaves the ring and goes to the back.
We go to commercial.
Match Number Four: Michelle McCool versus Layla
They lock up with a lot of aggression but Michelle pushes Layla to the mat. Layla with punches to Michelle and Michelle punches back and they roll to the floor. Michelle sends Layla into the ringside barrier. Michelle Irish whips Layla into the ringside barrier as the referee continues his count. Michelle misses a charge into the ringside barrier. Michelle with a super kick to Layla and then the referee gets to ten and he calls for the bell.
Double Count Out
After the match, Michelle and Layla continue to brawl on the floor. Michelle appears to have the advantage while referees come out to try to break things up. That is not a very successful plan. Eventually Michelle and Layla take a breather. Layla wants some more of Michelle and they try to get away from the referees.
Layla tells Michelle that she is sick of this and sick of Michelle. She wants a match at Extreme Rules with no count outs and no disqualifications. Layla says that will shut Michelle up. Michelle says that Layla will be nothing without her. Michelle accepts the match, but Layla is not getting off that easy. She accepts under one condition. The loser of the match leaves WWE.
We go to commercial.
We are back with a video package for the European tour.
Christian is in the locker room and Matt Striker is there to ask him about his match with Alberto Del Rio at Extreme Rules. Christian says that he wants to take us back a little. He says that Alberto Del Rio talks about destiny. Christian talks about his destiny when Alberto caused Christian to tear his pectoral muscle and it gave him time to think. What if that was it and his career was over. Now we go to the present where his best friend of 27 years Edge is on the biggest stage of them all defending his title and then he has to retire. Christian wonders if he is just in the right place at the right time or is it time to fill his potential. Christian says that until last week, he never put his hands on the title belt because he never felt that he earned that right. Sunday is his destiny when he will climb the ladder and he will achieve his destiny and win the World Title.
It is time to run through the card for Extreme Rules.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Did You Know that Smackdown has been the most watched show on Syfy for thirty consecutive weeks.
Match Number Five: Alberto Del Rio and Brodus Clay with Ricardo Rodriguez versus Christian and Randy Orton
Del Rio and Christian appear to start things off but Alberto tags in Clay. They lock up and Clay sends Christian to the mat and then he walks across Christian’s chest. Christian with a waist lock but Clay backs Christian into the corner. Clay with a waist lock and take down. Clay pie faces Christian but Christian slaps Clay and then he punches the big man who likes to say sheeeeeeeeeeeee. Clay tosses Christian into the corner but Christian with a kick and then he tries for a sunset flip from the turnbuckles. Clay does not go over and he picks Christian up. Christian with a punch but Clay with a head butt to the midsection and Del Rio wants to tag in.
Del Rio with a running kick to the head followed by an Irish whip and a step up enzuigiri and Del Rio gets a near fall. Del Rio with an arm bar on Christian. Christian with a kick and Orton is tagged in and he hits an English uppercut followed by a kick to the chest. Orton with a leaping knee drop and then he kicks Del Rio in the rib followed by a snap mare and another knee drop for a near fall. Del Rio with a single arm breaker and Clay is tagged in and Clay with a body block.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Clay with a slam to Orton and he gets a near fall. Del Rio is tagged back in and Del Rio with a kick to Orton followed by a drop kick to the head. Del Rio with punches to Orton followed by a kick. Del Rio with a reverse chin lock. Orton tries to make the tag but he cannot fully extend his arm as Del Rio applies the chin lock. Orton with a belly-to-back suplex to get out of the hold but both men are down. Orton and Del Rio make their way to the corner to tag. Clay and Christian are in and Christian with a running forearm or two but they have no effect. Clay with an Irish whip but Christian gets his boots up to stop the charging Clay. Christian with a drop kick from the turnbuckles but Clay stays on his feet. Christian with another drop kick from the turnbuckles and he takes the big man off his feet. Christian gets a near fall but Clay powers out of the cover.
Christian slingshots to the floor and he connects with an uppercut. Christian goes off the turnbuckles but Clay catches Christian and Clay hits an exploder suplex and gets a near fall. Clay stands on Christian’s chest and then Del Rio kicks Christian in the shoulder while Clay distracted the referee. Clay with an elbow drop for a near fall.
Del Rio tags back in and he kicks Christian in the arm and he puts Christian in the arm bar. Del Rio with a head butt but he gets back body dropped over the top rope to the floor when he charges into the corner. Christian tries to make the tag as he crawls across the ring. Clay tags in and Clay stops Christian and head butts Christian to stop his momentum.
Clay with a back breaker to Christian and he stretches Christian over his knee. Clay picks Christian back up and slams Christian. Clay with another slam as he starts to work on the back. Del Rio is tagged in and he hits a back senton from the top turnbuckle but he can only get a near fall. Del Rio with kicks to Christian and we see the title belt above the ring.
Del Rio gets a near fall on Christian. Del Rio with a kick in the corner and then he goes to the turnbuckles but Orton distracts Del Rio. Christian with a rana from the turnbuckles and both men are down again. Christian tries to roll to his corner and make the tag. Orton tags in and he clotheslines Del Rio a few times. Orton with a power slam followed by an Olympic Slam. Orton looks around and then he sees Del Rio on the apron. Orton with the IEDDT and then he knocks Clay off the apron. Orton turns into the RKO push ups.
Del Rio escapes the RKO and he pushes Orton into the ropes. Clay trips Orton and Del Rio tags Clay back into the match. Clay tries for a clothesline but he runs into an RKO and Orton gets the three count.
Winners: Christian and Randy Orton
Christian and Del Rio stare at each other and then Christian points to the title belt above the ring as we go to credits.
2012 - WWE broadcast Extreme Rules on PPV, headlined by an excellent John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar bout in Lesnar's first WWE PPV appearance since 2004. Mike Johnson filed the following PPV report:
Pre-Game Show:
Miz came out and cut a promo about being on the pre-game show.
WWE United States champion Santino Marella vs. The Miz.
Santino thwarted Miz early but was nailed and stomped hard. Miz covered some near falls, then locked on a side chinlock. Santino flipped Miz over, but was raked in the face and covered for another two count. Miz continued controlling Marella but the crowd chanted to rally the champion. Miz missed a running kick and was rolled up for a two count. Miz nailed Marella across the back and went to the top rope. He came off but was nailed by Marella. Marella fired back with a series of shots, a hiptoss and a diving headbutt. He went for the Cobra but Miz kicked him away. He whipped Marella into the corner and charged but missed and hit the buckles hard. Marella nailed the Cobra and covered him for the pin.
Your winner, Santino Marella!
They spun the wheel to determine Big Show vs. Cody Rhodes' stipulation bout tonight. It was a Tables Match. Show laughed and told Rhodes, "Good luck putting me through a table." Rhodes blamed Teddy Long for this as he spun the wheel.
Welcome to PWInsider.com's WWE Extreme Rules 2012 PPV coverage!
They opened the show with a really good Cena vs. Lesnar video piece.
Kane vs. Randy Orton - Falls Count Anywhere
Kane muscled Orton into the corner and nailed several shoulderblocks. Orton fought him off and went to the ropes but was nailed with an uppercut and sent to the floor. Kane covered Orton for a two count, then retrieved a lead pipe from under the ring. Orton began nailing Kane with a series of rights before it could be used, then grabbed the pipe and nailed Kane a number of times with it. Orton followed up with a clothesline that sent Kane over the top to the floor.
Orton and Kane brawled into the timekeeper's area, then into the crowd. They brawled towards the back of the Arena, where Orton beat down Kane with a series of rights, then drilled him with a knee to the head. Orton covered Kane for a two count. Orton and Kane exchanged punches on the floor. Kane slammed him on the floor and covered Orton for a two count. Kane drilled Orton to set up another pinfall attempt.
They began battling back towards the ring, then battled up the stairs towards the mid-level of the Allstate Arena. They battled back towards the floor and into the staging area where the entrances take place. Kane tried to ram Orton into the set but Orton slipped off Kane's shoulders and nailed a dropkick for a two count. Orton went for the RKO but was shoved off and turned into a big boot, resulting in another two count.
They brawled towards the backstage area. Kane rammed Orton into some staging equipment and cases. He then slammed Orton's head into a locker room door. Orton fired back with a series of rights and sent him into a door, which opened, revealing a room where WWWE talents were watching on a monitor. Kane went Orton but was attacked by Ryder from behind, nailing a series of punches. Kane grabbed him by the throat but Orton drilled Kane for a two count. Kane whipped Orton into some staging poles.
They brawled back into the hallway backstage, taking out a cameraman. Kane threw a chair at Orton for another two count. He dragged Orton back into the Arena. Orton fought back and sent Kane into the apron, then tossed him into the ring. Orton began nailing punches with the crowd yelling, "Yes!" with each one. He nailed Kane and went under the ring, grabbing a steel chair.
Orton began beating Kane with a series of shots across the back. Yes chants for each shot. Kane rolled out of the ring. Orton followed and slammed his head into the announcer's table. Orton prepared to use the table but Kane grabbed him for a chokeslam. Orton fought his way out with a series of elbows. Kane was laid out on the table, and Orton pulled him off to nail the hanging DDT for a two count.
Back in the ring, Orton worked over Kane and nailed a superplex off the top rope for a two count. Orton went for the RKO but Kane slipped out and nailed a chokeslam. Orton kicked out, which Kane was shocked at. Kane grabbed the steel chair and set it in the ring. He went for a tombstone on the chair but Orton slipped out and nailed the RKO on the chair for the pin.
Your winner, Randy Orton!
Entertaining brawl as the weapons and fighting outside added a lot to the bout. They had some nice back and forth near falls as well. We are off to a solid start.
Backstage, John Laurinatitis and Eve Torres asked Teddy Long to toast all the changes of the last month. Triple H called on the cell phone and asked to speak to Ace. He said he would go to somewhere more private to talk.
Brodus Clay vs. Dolph Ziggler
The crowd was solidly behind Ziggler. Ziggler got Clay out of the ring to the floor early, where Jack Swagger nailed him with a football tackle. Clay rolled back in the ring and fought back but Ziggler avoided a kick and dropkicked him in the legs, then nailed him with an elbow for a two count. Huge "Let's go Ziggler" chant.
Ziggler locked on a front facelock. Clay fired back but Ziggler cut him off and nailed a dropkick to the head for a two count. Ziggler mounted Clay's back and locked in a sleeper. Clay made his way to his feet and flipped Ziggler over his shoulder to the mat. Ziggler, undaunted, continued the assault and attempted a suplex. Clay reversed and nailed a clothesline. Swagger got on the apron to distract Clay but was nailed off. Ziggler nailed Clay and charged him but was nailed with a headbutt to the chest and went flying for it. Clay nailed a splash for the pin.
Your winner, Brodus Clay!
Not much of a match. Ziggler was working really hard and was over big-time in Chicago.
WWE Intercontinental champ Big Show vs. Cody Rhodes - Tables Match
Show cleaned house on Rhodes early backdropping him. Rhodes went to the floor, where Show chopped him hard across the chest on the floor. Show grabbed a table that was propped up in front of the announcing position. He grabbed Rhodes, who slipped down behind Show and nailed him with a chop block from behind. He worked over Show, who came back with a Beel Throw on the floor and rolled Rhodes in.
Show brought a table into the ring. Fans were chanting for "Cody". Show set up the table in the corner. He tried to run Rhodes into it but Rhodes jumped up and used the table as a springboard point, nailing a version of the Beautiful Disaster. Show came back to nail Rhodes and send him to the floor. He tossed Rhodes into the guard rail barrier and chopped him across the chest.
Show continued the assault, then tossed him back in. Show moved another table into the ring and climbed up the apron. As he went to get back into the ring by stepping over the ropes, Rhodes dropkicked him. Show's leg slipped off the apron and went right through a table set up on the floor behind him. Show had this "Oh sh**" look on his face as if he couldn't believe what just happened. The referee called for the bell.
Your winner and new WWE Intercontinental champion, Cody Rhodes!
Rhodes began celebrating, so Show speared him. He set up a table in the ring. He chokeslammed Rhodes through a table to make his point. Show was going to leave but saw the table that cost him the title, then turned back to Rhodes and pressed and dropped him through another table at ringside. That was an impressive looking bump by Rhodes.
Nothing really to the match as it was all Show laying the beatdown before Rhodes got the fluke win. Not a good fluke win either, so it made the title change weak.
Matt Striker interviewed Daniel Bryan, who said his beard looked better than Sheamus. He tried to heel Chicago to turn them (good luck there) and promised he would win the World title.
World champion Sheamus vs. Daniel Bryan - Best of Three Falls
Big reaction for Bryan coming out.
FALL ONE
They had a feeling out process early, exchanging holds. Bryan tried to work over Sheamus' arm but it was reversed and Sheamus used a number of knees to his back. Bryan went for a waistlock but Sheamus reversed it. He shoulderblocked Bryan down and caught him when Bryan leapt at him, hitting a rolling senton. Sheamus grabbed Bryan in a Texas Cloverleaf like move, but Bryan made it to the ropes.
Bryan caught Sheamus in a small package for a two count but was caught with a clothesline. Sheamus worked over Bryan in the corner with punches. The fans yelled, "No" with each one. Bryan came back with a series of leaping kicks and leg lariat. He nailed a sliding kick on Sheaus, sending him to the floor. Bryan went for the leaping knee but was caught and slammed into the ringside barrier.
Dueling chants began for each. Bryan caught Sheamus and worked him over with a series of knees and stomps, then locked up his arm with a hammerlock, then began twisting him up on the mat, trying to force a pinfall. Sheamus tried to fight back but Bryan maintained control with headbutts, uppercuts ands punches. Sheamus fired back and they went back and forth. Sheamus missed a clothesline and Bryan rolled him up from behind for a two count.
Bryan began working over Sheamus in the ropes and the referee admonished him. Bryan told him that he has until the five count. Old school Bryan fans should pop for that. Sheamus mounted a comeback with a series of clotheslines and knees but Bryan rolled out to the apron. Sheamus grabbed him and nailed a series of shots across the chest. Bryan nailed a Fall Away Slam.
Sheamus picked up Bryan but he lost him and Bryan slammed him into the turnbuckle and rolled up for a two count. Bryan began stomping and kicking at the champion in the corner. He nailed a stiff shot to the face. Bryan placed him on the top rope and went for a top rope rana but Sheamus held on. Bryan missed and was nailed with the Battering Ram off the top for another two count.
Bryan ended up on the outside of the ropes on the apron. Sheamus tried to suplex him back in but Bryan landed on his feet. Sheamus charged but Bryan held the ropes down and the champ crashed to the floor. Bryan went for a dive but Sheamus nailed him as he charged through the ropes. Bryan came back with a series of pinfalls and went for the Yes Lock. Sheamus whipped Bryan into the corner. Bryan moved out of the way of a charge and Sheamus nailed the ringpost and went to the floor. Sheamus' wristband was caught in the hook of the middle buckle and he yanked his arm rudely as he went to the floor. Unplanned but it added a nice dimension to the sequence.
Bryan grabbed Sheamus and rammed him shoulder-first into the ringpost several times. Bryan nailed a series of kicked to the bad shoulder, drilling him over and over. He kept kicking when the referee counted to five and for the first time ever, Bryan is DQ'd for breaking the five count. Bryan was smiling, so he was trying to hurt Sheamus and wasn't worried about losing the fall.
Sheamus -1, Bryan - 0
FALL TWO
Bryan attacked Sheamus and locked in the Yes Lock. Sheanus tried to make it to the ropes but could not with his hurt shoulder. Sheamus blacked out and the referee stopped it.
Sheamus -1, Bryan - 1
Chicago went nuts with "Yes" chants. Other fans chanted, "No." It's like a WCW Zodiak fan convention!
Several doctors worked on Sheamus to revive him. They got him awake and he said he wanted to continue.
FALL THREE
Bryan charged the exhausted Sheamus, who exploded with the Brogue Kick, nailing him. Both men were down and Sheamus finally covered Bryan for a two count. Bryan made his way to his feet first and began nailing Sheamus with kicks. Sheamus used his good arm to return fire but Bryan kicked him in the head, covering Sheamus for a two count.
Bryan went to the ropes but was nailed by Sheamus. Sheamus went for a suplex but Bryan fought him off and sent him crashing to the mat. Bryan went for a flying headbutt but missed. Sheamus recovered in the corner where Bryan charged and missed a leaping kick. Sheamus went nuts with offense and drilled Bryan with the Irish Curse Backbreaker.
Sheamus called for the Brogue Kick and nailed Bryan. He covered Bryan and scored the pin.
Your winner and still World champion, Sheamus!
Excellent from start to finish, both technically and from a dramatic standpoint. The crowd really added to the entire scenario. It was awesome to see them get a lot of time to really work on the mat and tell a story, something that Bryan's current character rarely gets a chance to do these days. Sheamus' work was excellent as well. Really worth going out of your way to see and enjoy.
Backstage, Santino Marella and Great Khali decided to watch the next match.
Jay Hatton & Aaron Relic are announced. WHO? I wonder if they get PPV royalties for this. Relic took the mic and said that many men have tried to make their name with their debut matches on Smackdown but have failed. They said they were going to combine their efforts because two is greater than one. Out came Ryback.
Ryback vs. Jay Hatton & Aaron Relic
Immediate Goldberg chants. Relic tried some offense and failed. Ryback killed him with a running boot and lifted him off the mat into a slam. He dragged Relic to his corner, made him tag Hatton and brought Hatton into the ring, then killed him a big running clothesline. More Goldberg chants. Ryback used his sitdown tailbone breaker, then picked up Relick for a fisherman's suplex into a running slam.
Your winner, Ryback!
Just a squash. More Goldberg chants. The former Skip Sheffield showed some charisma.
Backstage, WWE champion CM Punk was welcomed home by Matt Striker. Striker asked him about his thoughts going into the title match tonight. Punk said it was a Chicago Streetfight but he doesn't think Jericho knows what that really is about since he's too busy trying to play some sort of mental games. Punk said that Jericho claims that he's got some sort of genetic demons in him because of his father but Punk exorcizes those demons every night when he steps into the ring. He promised to give Jericho a hangover with the GTS.
Backstage, WWE champion CM Punk was welcomed home by Matt Striker. Striker asked him about his thoughts going into the title match tonight. Punk said it was a Chicago Streetfight but he doesn't think Jericho knows what that really is about since he's too busy trying to play some sort of mental games. Punk said that Jericho claims that he's got some sort of genetic demons in him because of his father but Punk exorcizes those demons every night when he steps into the ring. He promised to give Jericho a hangover with the GTS.
WWE champion CM Punk vs. Chris Jericho - Chicago Street Fight
Punk was wearing blue jeans and a tshirt for the Streetfight. They showed Punk's sister in the front row and said his mother was also in attendance.
They started fighting in tghe center of the ring at the bell. Punk got the better of him and began stomping the hell out of him. Jericho tried to get away but was shoved into the timekeeper's area. Punk threw a bunch of chairs into the ring. Terry Funk was proud. He worked over Jericho and tossed him into the ring, then grabbed a kendo stick and nailed Jericho across the back. That got a "ECW" chant.
Punk whipped Jericho into the ropes and swung hard with the stick but Jericho held onto the ropes and headed to the floor. Punk chased him back into the ring and Punk caught him trying to nail the champ on the way back in. Punk used the kendo stick a few more times and grabbed a chair. They keep showing Punk's sister, so she will likely play into a spot.
Jericho hid behind the referee and poked Punk in the eye. He nailed Punk in the mid-section with the kendo stick. Jericho nailed Punk with the springboard dropkick off the turnbuckles, sending him to the floor. He whipped Punk hard into the barrier, sending him over the wall into the timekeeper's area. Jericho worked over Punk, who grabbed him and sent Jericho into the table.
Jericho cut Punk off and nailed him, rolling him back into the ring. Jericho exposed the top turnbuckle. Punk drilled Jericho with a series of chops and whipped him into the corner. Punk went for the running high knee but Jerico avoided. Punk hit the buckles and crashed over the top to the floor. Jericho exposed the top of the barrier in front of Punk's sister and slammed Punk into it. He worked over Punk in front of her and shoved him aside.
Jericho got in Punk's sister's face and she slapped him. Jericho went after her but Punk tackled him and beat Jericho down. He went nuts, ripping the top off the tables. He slammed Jericho atop the table cover, shattering it. He then brought Jericho to the Spanish Announcer's table and tried for a piledriver. Jericho backdropped him over and drilled Punk across the back with a TV monitor. He grabbed one of the table covers and shattered it over Punk's back. Jericho began beating him down while screaming at Punk he was a drunk.
Jericho rolled Punk into the ring and covered him for a two count. He locked Punk in a chinlock as Chicago chanted for the champion. Punk nailed a back suplex. He snapped Jericho's throat over the ropes. Punk went for the springboard clothesline but saw Jericho grab the kendo stick and tried to land on his feet. Jericho began beating the hell out of him with the stick. He began screaming at Punk about his sister but Punk surprised him with a small package for a two count. Jericho cut him off and continued beating down Punk.
Jericho went under the ring and pulled out a can of beer. He opened the beer and got heel heat for it, then poured it over Punk's body, acting like he was toasting Punk. Jericho grabbed another from under the ring, He began drinking it but Punk nailed him with a back kick and started working him over with the kendo stick. Punk nailed a leg lariat while using the stick as a weapon as well, then followed up with a swinging neck breaker.
Punk nailed the running high knee and bulldog. He grabbed the kendo stick and crotched Jericho with it, then called for the GTS. Jericho slipped out and tried for the Walls of Jericho but Punk countered and caught him for a two count. Punk went to the top for the flying elbow but Jericho cut him off. Punk fought off Jericho in the corner, sending him to the mat, then nailed the flying elbowdrop for a two count.
Punk peppered Jericho with several punches and went for the GTS but Jericho slipped out and nailed him. He went for the Lionsault but Punk came from behind and grabbed him on his shoulders for the GTS but again Jericho countered. He sent Punk into a chair for a two count. Jericho hit the Codebreaker on Punk then locked him in the Walls of Jericho. Punk fought his way to the ropes, breaking the hold, or so he thought as there's no DQ in a Streetfight. Punk was able to grab a fire extinguisher that was under the ring apron, pulled it up and shot Jericho in the face with it. That got a huge "CM Punk" fan.
Blinded, Jericho tried to wipe his eyes clean on the referee's shirt but Punk nailed him with the extinguisher, sending him to the floor. He nailed Jericho again, knocking him onto the Spanish announcer's table. Punk went to the top but almost slipped off. He nailed a flying elbow off the top through the table, which looked awesome. Punk rolled Jericho in and covered him but Jericho kicked out. Punk immediately went and locked in the Anaconda Vice. Jericho grabbed a kendo stick, then almost tapped. He nailed Punk in the head and neck several times with the stick to break the hold. A "This is awesome" chant broke out.
Punk grabbed a chair but was nailed by Jericho. He pulled himself up and Jericho nailed him with a Codebreaker to the face on the chair. Punk kicked out at the last second. This match is just friggin' awesome. Jericho nailed him with the kendo stick and stomped at Punk, screaming at him to stay down. Jericho went for Punk's own move, the GTS. He went for it but Punk nailed him with a catapult into the exposed turnbuckle and hit the GTS for the pin.
Your winner and still WWE champion, CM Punk!
That was just awesome. Great drama. Great plunder. A brawl where you believed they really wanted to kill each other. This show is a winner. This was easily the best match of their feud. They should both be really proud of this one as it's going to stand the test of time.
Punk dove into the crowd to celebrate.WWE Divas champion Nikki Bella vs. TBA
Nikki cut a damn great promo saying the belt wasn't going anywhere. When did she learn to cut a promo?
The mystery person was Layla, returning. Not a big reaction, since she's coming back cold. They had some decent back and forth early. Nikki ran Layla backwards into the corner. Layla nailed a crossbody off the ropes. Brie got on the apron and was nailed. That allowed Nikki to nail her from behind. Layla did some nice Lucha style armdrag. Nikki and Brie switched with Twin Magic but was nailed with a neckbreaker and pinned.
Your winner and new WWE Divas champion, Layla El!
Too short to be anything of note but when the hell did Layla learn all the Lucha spots?
Matt Striker tried to find out what HHH was calling John Laurinaitis about. He said it would be addressed on Raw.
They had a great video piece for Brock vs. Cena.
Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena
Lesnar is wearing his MMA fighting gear and is doing all sorts of fighting stances. Cena charged but was caught with a double leg takedown. He worked over Cena with punches and legitimately busted him open in the back of the head with an elbow to the face. Cena was clotheslined down. The ref checked him but Cena grabbed Brock with a waistlock takedown.
Lesnar mounted Cena and beat him down with punches. The referee called for a doctor to look at Cena. They cleaned him up. Cena charged and Lesnar took him down and worked him over with punches, riding his back. He drilled Cena with a knee across the ribs and back, then sent him to the floor.
Cena pulled himself up and was busted open. They stopped it again to clean Cena up. It was easily the most blood on WWE TV in forever. Cena nailed Lesnar with an elbow and went for the AA but Lesnar slipped out and nailed a series of German suplexes, killing his momentum. He went for a third but Cena fired out and nailed a shoulderblock into Lesnar, who wiped out the referee. Cena went for another but was killed by Lesnar.
Lesnar began punching Cena in the wound. He wiped the blood on his chest and licked it. I am going to guess that gets edited off the replays. Lesnar worked over Cena in the corner with punches and drilled him over and over with shoulderblocks. Lesnar locked in an armbar on Cena but there was no referee to see if Cena submits. Lesnar slammed him into the corner and Cena rolled out to the floor.
Lesnar followed Cena to the floor and locked on the armbar. He ran Cena into the guard rail. Lesnar rolled Cena into the ring and grabbed Cena's trademark chain. He wrapped it around his fist and teased using it, then tossed it aside. He kicked Cena and drilled him with knees to the ribs. He used the chain to wrap Cena's legs together and dared him to get back up and fight. Cena pulled himself up and Brock murdered him with a running clothesline.
Lesnar lifted Cena on the top and hung him upside down on the ringpost, using the chain to hold him up. Lesnar began picking the bones, punching Cena as he was hung upside down. Lesnar shoved him off and down to the floor. Cena got to his feet and tried to fire up but Lesnar reversed an Irish whip and sent him into the ring steps. Brock tossed the referee and threw him back in the ring.
Cena rolled back in the ring. Lesnar pulled him up. Cena went for the AA but Lesnar slipped off and nailed the F5, wiping out the referee at the same time. A second ref hit the ring and counted two. Lesnar, pissed, nailed the other ref for not counting three. Lesnar grabbed the ring steps and brought them into the ring. He grabbed Cena, who fought back. Lesnar grabbed him in a Kimura Lock on the steps. Nice idea to do this on the steps so there's an easier visual for everyone to see and for the cameras to shoot.
Lesnar powered up and slammed Lesnar down on the steps. Awesome idea. Cena, selling the arm, went to the top for the flying legdrop. Lesnar moved and Cena nailed the mat with no water in the pool. Cena rolled out of the ring. Lesnar couldn't find him and was overjoyed when he saw him. Cena pulled himself back into the ring. Lesnar charged across the ring and leapt off the ring steps, sailing into the air to nail Cena. Lesnar took this insane bump to the floor and grabbed his knee as if he was hurt, but still recovered, laughing and getting into the ring waiting for Cena. This just made Lesnar looked like the most insane person ever.
Lesnar tried to leap at Cena again but was nailed with Cena's chain. Cena fired himself up and now Lesnar is busted open. Lesnar was pulled into the AA on the ringsteps and pinned.
Your winner, John Cena!
From start to finish, this was just incredible. A brutal, bloody, gripping brawl. Lesnar looked like every bit the true monster heel that WWE hasn't had in forever and in doing so, made Cena an awesome babyface in terms of selling, selling, selling to build sympathy. They really put together an incredible spectacle.
Lesnar refused medical attention.
Cena celebrated and took the mic. He said that he shouldn't speak unless spoken to and he hopes this is on the air. He said that he knows this is CM Punk country but this is also a wrestling city. He said that if he has to take a vacation because he's banged up or if he gets sent home, he is glad it was in Chicago. He said he was busted open, can't use his arm and wouldn't have it any other way. Cena said that they were supposed to give fans the extreme tonight and every wrestler, good guy and bad guy, gave Chicago their all. He thanked everyone and asked them to get home safe.
As the show went off the air, Cena told someone off-camera that he "can move it, so he knows it's not torn", referring to his arm.
This PPV was GREAT. Order the replay folks!!!!
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