-Hosted by Michael Cole & Jerry "The King" Lawler
-Tonight's show opens with a recap of the Shawn Michaels-JBL angle starting with Armageddon and leading up to last weeks fatal four way which saw Shawn take a dive for JBL sending him to the Royal Rumble to face John Cena for the World Heavyweight Championship.
-Randy Orton and Chris Jericho are in the ring for a joint promo. Jericho states they are here to address the atrocity of last week. Jericho states that the rules clearly state that the rules are every man for himself, but it is clear that JBL and Michaels were working together. As a result they are filing a formal protest. Orton states they feel that JBL should be removed from the title match at the Royal Rumble and Shawn Michaels should not be allowed to compete. Orton states that he and Jericho have agreed to a match tonight with the winner going on to face Cena. Jericho says the fans don't have to like it, but at least they fought an honest match. That brings out JBL and Shawn Michaels together in JBL's limo. JBL says they can protest all they want, but the facts are that he won the match and he will be facing Cena at the Rumble. JBL asks them to lose with a little dignity. He says they have the audacity to cast aspersions at him considering their track records. JBL claims they would have done the same given their track records if they had the resources. Jericho says he always does things on the up and up, and then moves on to Michaels. He says everything he said over the summer has been proven to be true. Shawn retorts that the one thing that keeps him from being completely sickened with himself is knowing he personally cost both of them from fighting for the title. Orton goes for the heart saying that saying that Shawn has taken a turn for the worse. He says not only is he hurting himself, but now Ric Flair's career has been ended by a weak pathetic sellout. Orton states the real shame is that once the protest is heard and the result is overturned it will all be for nothing. That brings out Stephanie McMahon. Stephanie says since Shawn didn't lie down the referees decision stands and the protest is denied. She officially places both Orton and Jericho in the Royal Rumble. Jericho says thats not supposed to be a reward because they should be in anyway. Jericho says that Shawn Michaels should not be in the Royal Rumble based on his actions. JBL says he'll yield to that demand because Shawn's sole function will be to be serve as his cornerman. Stephanie says the easy thing to do now would be to make a tag match between these four, but thats no fun so she instead decides to test Shawn's integrity by making tonights main event Orton and Jericho against Shawn and John Cena. Fantastic opening segment.
Goldust & Melina vs. Santino Marella & Beth Phoenix
Rosa Mendez again gets a front row seat. I guess jumping the rail doesn't even get you a week off. I'll have to remember that the next time I'm at a show. Beth starts with Melina. Beth sends Melina down with a headbutt. After an exchange of firsts Beth again takes Melina down with an elbow. Santino tags in and tries to grab Melina, but a slap allows her to tag Goldust. Goldust hits an armdrag. Santino fights back and gains control after a wristlock. Cover by Santino gets a two count and then he hits a headlock. Goldust fights out of that and hits an inverted atomic drop and follows up with a clothesline. Attempted kiss to Beth is rebuffed. Butt-butt by Goldust gets two as he sends Santino to the floor. Goldust tags in Melina which lets the women go at it again. Beth drives Melina into the corner, but a charge attempt meets Melina's boot. Melina goes to the top rope and hits a face buster. Jacknife rollup finishes abruptly for Melina giving her and Goldust the victory. Rosa Mendez jumps the rail again and security grabs her and takes her through the crowd. Melina goes out through the crowd after her but security keeps them apart. Harmless comedy match mainly to set up the Mendez angle and make Melina seem like a threat heading into the Rumble match.
Winners: Goldust & Melina (Melina pins Phoenix-Rollup *1/4)
-Todd Grisham is with CM Punk. Punk talks about being stoked for a shot at the IC title. Punk brings up the legacy of the Intercontinental Title and adding himself to that elite list. He brings up Regal defeating him in the King of the Ring finals last Spring and also Regal's cheap shot last week. Punk says tonight he's gonna start the new year off with a bang by becoming the new IC Champ.
WWE Intercontinental Championship: CM Punk vs. William Regal (c) (w. Layla)
Punk opens up with a barrage of kicks getting a one count. Snap suplex gets a two count for Punk. Punk hits with a few knees before sending Regal to the floor. Punk goes for a suicide dive, but Regal uses Layla as a shield. Punk tries to go out after Regal, but gets pulled to the floor allowing Regal to slide inside and take control. Regal pounds Punk down with several forearms and a cover gets a one count. Irish whip into the corner by Regal is followed with a big punch for two. Regal locks in a full nelson, but Punk fights out of that. Regal takes a spin kick to the head which gets two for Punk. Into the corner Punk hits a high knee. A bulldog attempt is blocked, but Regal sets up for the GTS. Regal grabs a hold of referee Mike Chioda to block the move which draws the ultra lame DQ. So that entire tournament was for that? Crowd shits all over it. Regal is leaving, but Stephanie shows up on the Titantron to inform Regal that he will give Punk a rematch and if Regal is disqualified he loses the title. Well that somewhat redeems it, but this still sucked given the buildup.
Winner: CM Punk (Disqualification-Regal Retains Championship *)
-JBL is talking to Shawn Michaels. He talks about how well this worked out for him. He tells Shawn all he needs to do is superkick Shawn and force Cena to have to forfeit the belt to him. Shawn stands up possibly to protest, but JBL informs him that this isn't about the Rumble. He was hired to get JBL to Wrestlemania 25 as the conquering hero returning to Texas. He tells Shawn that he'll never have to worry about a bill the rest of his life.
-Randy Orton is with Cody Rhodes and Sim Snuka. He tells them they both won last week and completed phase one. Orton tells them if they want to be apart of his group they have to win their match tonight. He says he wont accept failure. That brings in Manu who asks for another chance to prove himself. Manu informs Randy that no one is perfect and even Randy himself last week. Wrong thing to say pal. Orton states he won the main event of Wrestlemania, and Manu has done nothing. He says his father and him are nothing compared to Randy and his father. Orton says half of these people don't even know his name. He says Manu will never be apart of his group, and he never wants to see his face again.
-Dolph Ziggler introduces himself to Mickie James in the back as Kofi and Rey walk by.
The Miz & John Morrison vs. Kofi Kingston & Rey Mysterio
Miz and Morrison chastise the crowd for booing them. Morrison states that a city that just became the murder capital of the US shouldn't really be judging them. They apologize for being World Tag Team Champs, 2X Slammy Award Winners, Saving the environment one low flow toilet flush at a time, and being the best tag team of the 21st Century. Contrary to prior reports this match appears to be non-title. On screen graphic announces both Rey and Kofi are in the Royal Rumble. Miz starts with Kofi. Crossbody by Kofi is followed by an armdrag which causes Miz to bail to the floor. Kofi threatens a tope but stops himself on the ropes as we head to break. Back from commercial and Miz has Rey in an armbar. Rey fights out and sends Miz into the corner buckle with a hurracanrana. That allows Rey to make the tag to Kofi. Kofi is in with a chop and a dropkick. He slides to the floor to avoid a shot from Morrison and pulls Morrison down with him. Back inside he looks to go up to the top rope, but Morrison sends him crashing allowing Miz to regain control. After a few shots to the knee Miz tags in Morrison who goes to work on the knee some more. To the floor Morrison continues to work the knee driving it into the ring apron. Tag to Miz who continues with the stomps to the knee and wrenches away at it. Miz moves to a front facelock. Kofi tries to power into the corner to tag, but Miz lets go and sends Rey to the floor. He walks into a backdrop at Kofi which would allow Kofi to tag, but Rey is on the floor. Seconds before Rey can get to him Miz pulls him back to the center and tags in Morrison. Morrison continues the assault stomping away and hitting a knee to the face for two. Kofi hits a hurracanrana from his back and again tries to tag but Morrison is able to stop that and tag in Miz. Kofi is placed on the top rope, but is able to fight Miz off and hit a dropkick off the second rope. That finally allows the hot tag to Rey as Miz tags Morrison. Rey hits a hurracanrana and rolls through a sunset flip with a dropkick to the face getting two. Springboard dropkick is blocked by Morrison into a facebuster for two. That gets two. Rey is able to counter into an armdrag flipping of the top but Miz breaks up the count. Miz looks to powerbomb, but Rey falls the apron. Kofi connects with a crossbody sending both him and Morrison to the floor. Dropkick to Morrison sets up the 619 which connects. It should be noted that this was about the lamest 619 set up ever as Morrison literally had to crawl half way across the ring and set himself up on the second rope. Quick distraction from Miz allows Morrison time to spin kick Rey on the springboard attempt which picks up the victory. Afterward Knox attacks Mysterio again this time clotheslining him on the second rope. A big boot by Knox sends Rey crashing to the floor.
Winners: The Miz & John Morrison (Morrison pins Mysterio-Spin Kick **3/4)
-Cena approaches Shawn Michaels and asks him if he's fighting two guys or three guys tonight. Shawn says he's nobodies puppet. As for what to expect, he asks Cena what does history tell him to expect.
Kelly Kelly vs. Jillian Hall
Jillian greets us with a rousing rendition of "When the Saints Go Marching In." Isn't it time to end this wretched gimmick yet? Kelly takes down Jillian and hits a front face lock. Jillian powers out of that sitting Kelly on the apron. She attacks Kelly on the way back in to take control . Pair of snap mares sets up a kick for two. Kick to the back sets up a modified camel clutch, I guess. Jillian hits a biel with the hair and that gets a two count. Next up Jillian locks in a full nelson. Kelly hits what is called a "great counter" by Michael Cole but really just amounted to her standing up and sitting down while Jillian let go. Kelly hits a tilt-a-whirl hurracanrana and follows up with a crossbody off the top for two. Trio of clotheslines gets a one count for Kelly. Kelly tries a victory roll, but Jillian sort of blocks it and gets a two count. Jillian tries to flip into the corner but is met by Kelly's boot. That puts her down to her knees which allows Kelly to hit a legdrop to the back of the neck while standing on Jillian's back which gets the victory. Afterwards Jillian attacks Kelly, and that brings out Kane. Jillian bails which leaves Kelly alone with Kane. Kane calls her out for protecting Orton and asks her if it feels good getting rejected. He says next week he's gonna go back to doing what feels good to him and that's eviscerating people. Next week Kane will face Randy Orton, and tells her she's free to watch. As for that match it was absolutely wretched. Kelly is improving, but Jillian is hardly the woman to have her in the ring with at this point.
Winner: Kelly Kelly (Pinfall-Legdrop DUD)
Cody Rhodes & Sim Snuka vs. Cryme Tyme
So Cody and Sim have to win to be in Orton's group. JTG starts with Snuka. Snuka goes for a rollup which is blocked. Inside cradle attempt by Snuka gets a two count. JTG comes with a shoulder block getting a two count. Tag to Shad sets up another shoulderblock. Back elbow by Shad is followed by a tag to JTG. JTG is thrown into Snuka. Rhodes has seen enough and tries to break things up but gets a right hand for his trouble. The distraction allows Snuka to take control shortly but he again gets taken down with a dropkick. Live event calendar tells us WWE will be in Des Moines, IA on Sunday. Rumor is yours truly will be there. Cody gets the tag after Snuka hits a kick. Cody sends JT to the apron and with the refs back turned a Snuka cheapshot allow the heels to gain control. Bodyslam by Cody sets up a tag to Snuka who comes off the ropes with a fistdrop for two. Snuka hits a chinlock from there proving he is already learning well from his mentor Randy. JTG fights out of that and hits a headlock take down which takes both men out. Snuka tags in Cody, but JTG makes the hot tag to Shad. Huge backdrop from Shad is followed up by a shot for Sim sending him to the floor. Elbow drop to Cody sets up a cover that is broken up by Snuka. Shad tries a corner charge but posts himself. He is able to make the tag to JTG however who comes in with a sunset flip for two. Cody goes for the DDT after a counter sequence, but instead turns it into what appears to be a yet to be named new finisher, a and that picks up the victory and officially gives birth to the Legacy. Fun little match, which is a bit surprising given the players
Winners: Cody Rhodes & Sim Snuka (Cody pins JTG ***)
-JBL is leaving Stephanie McMahon's office with a smile on his face.
-Cody & Snuka meet up with Orton in the back. Orton informs Snuka he's out. Snuka doesn't understand because they won. Orton says he doesn't have time to argue, but tells him Cody won. It was a test to see who the weak link was. Orton asks Cody what he thinks and Cody says all he knows as that he won the match.
-Santino and Beth is in Stephanie's office. Santino asks why Rosa is "banded." Stephanie tells him that she is out of control. Beth thanks him, but Santino says its not her fault. No woman can resist him. Beth again thanks Steph and drags Santino out by his hair. That brings Jericho in. Jericho asks Stephanie if JBL was paying her off? Stephanie asks him if he really thinks she needs JBL's money? Jericho informs Steph that when he filed his protest he not only filed it with her, but he filed it with her father. She tells him her father is now out of the picture, but Jericho says he thought so too. But he got a call from Vince's office and in two weeks Vince McMahon will be back on Raw! Stephanie is stunned.
-CM Punk vs. William Regal for the Intercontinental Title is announced for next week
Randy Orton & Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels & John Cena
Cena starts with Jericho. Jericho quickly takes control with a headlock takedown. Cena comes up out of that but is met with a shoulderblock. Leapfrog by Cena and then he takes Jericho down with a headlock takeover of his own. Michaels makes a blind tag as Cena puts Jericho up for the FU. Michaels comes in and looks to deliver Sweet Chin Music but both Jericho and Cena move. Tension mounts as we don't know who it was intended for. Jericho rolls to the floor as JBL comes out for a closer look. That sends us to commercial.
Back from commercial and HBK and Orton are wrestling in the ring. JBL has gone backstage during the break. HBK tags in Cena, who comes in and hits two shoulders on Orton and an atomic drop. Cena gets the crowd pumped and hits the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Orton. Orton scoops Orton for the FU but Jericho comes in. HBK comes in and clotheslines Jericho. Cena goes for the FU again on Orton but HBK argues with him after Cena had him. Orton decks Cena from the side and takes control. Jericho is tagged in now, using the ropes against Cena.
Jericho picks Cena to his feet and slaps him, taunting him. Jericho distracts the ref so Orton can get some cheap shots in on Cena. Jericho hits a baseball slide on Cena, sending him to the floor. Jericho comes to the floor and slams Cena's face into the announcers table. Back in the ring and Jericho gets a 2 count.
Jericho applies a headlock on Cena as HBK looks on. Cena lifts out of it and picks Jericho up for the FU but he counters and breaks Cena's hold. 2 count by Jericho. Orton is tagged back in for a little bit of double teaming. Orton begins stomping on Cena like he usually does. Big knee by Orton for a 2 count.
Orton backs Cena into the corner and puts the boot to his throat. Jericho is tagged back in now and Cena fights back with him. Jericho locks on a sleeper hold but Cena tries to fight out of it. Cena reaches for a tagand HBK reaches back out. Jericho pulls Cena back to the mat with the sleeper still locked. We see JBL watching on a monitor backstage. Cena finally gets to his feet and breaks the hold. Jericho takes him to the top for a superplex but Cena pushes him off. Cena with a big leg drop from the top.
Cena tries to tag but Orton gets tagged in first and comes in for a 2 count on Cena. Orton drops Cena with right hands. Cena blocks a dropkick by Orton but goes down himself. Cena leaps to tag in HBK. Michaels comes in but looks at Cena in the corner. Jericho comes from behind and HBK decks him. HBK hits his usual series of moves on Jericho. Jericho does the Lionsault but lands on HBK's knees. Scoop slam from HBK and he goes to the top rope. HBK goes for the elbow drop but Jericho puts his knees up and HBK hurts himself. Jericho locks the Walls of Jericho but HBK rolls him for a 2 count. Orton comes in but Cena tries to stop him. Back breaker by Orton on Cena. HBK hits the Sweet Chin Music on Orton, then Jericho. HBK covers Jericho for the pinfall and the win.
Winners: John Cena and Shawn Michaels
After the match, HBK looks confused. Cena nods at him in approval. HBK walks back and looks at Cena. Todd Grisham is backstage with JBL. JBL says he talked with Stephanie and on next week's RAW, HBK will face John Cena in singles action. JBL says he will be in HBK's corner. We cut back to the arena where HBK's music is still playing. Cena tries to get HBK pumped but it's not happening. RAW goes off the air.
It seems as though a fire that appeared to die down for a bit is about to be rekindled in terms of the attention given to steroid use in professional wrestling.
U.S. Senator Henry Waxman submitted a report on the state of steroid use and abuse in wrestling to the Office of National Drug Control Policy's Director, John P. Walters. Along with the report, Waxman provided a letter he wrote, which details somewhat shocking, and most certainly embarrassing facts about steroid use in both WWE and TNA.
To read the complete letter, in pdf format, you can CLICK HERE
Some highlights (or lowlights?) in the letter, pointed out by Mike Johnson of pwinsider.com:
*Chris Benoit tested positive three times for steroids by World Wrestling Entertainment prior to his June 2006 murder/suicide of his family, but was never penalized by the promotion beyond "only a warning."
*40% of WWE talents tested positive for steroids and other drugs despite being aware they would be tested when the company instituted their "Wellness Policy."
*25% of TNA's talent roster tested positive for steroids during the promotion's first baseline test while 11 talents tested positives for other substances. Waxman went on to note that while the company has instituted a policy, there are "significant weaknesses" within the TNA program.
*Waxman was critical of WWE making changes to their Wellness Policy several months after instituting it to allow wrestlers to continue to perform (without pay) on TV and PPV events in order to maintain storyline consistency after they were nailed with suspensions. In an interview with Aegis Science's Dr. Black (who oversees the WWE Wellness program), Black noted that change was instituted, "because it was becoming difficult to deal with the talent who were being suspended". Black also noted he was "unaccustomed to programs that suspend and you're not suspended."
*WWE hired five of eight wrestlers who tested positive for steroids and other drugs during pre-hiring tests, despite their positives. It should be noted that according to material given to the Committee by WWE, those talents were only hired after later receiving negative tests at a later period.
*Waxman noted that WWE was allowing "therapeutic usage" of steroids from talents who were using a "testosterone replacement therapy" to combat issues brought on by previous steroid use in their past.
*Despite being a performer within his own company, Waxman noted WWE's Vince McMahon is not subject to the WWE's Wellness Policy testing procedures. Waxman noted McMahon would not comment on his own steroid use and claimed not to know of the damages brought on by long-term steroid use, claiming he was "not a doctor."
The letter includes transcripts of interviews with Vince and Linda McMahon, Stephanie McMahon-Levesque, Dixie Carter, as well as the doctors who created and oversee the WWE's Wellness Policy. I strongly suggest reading the letter, before everybody else (WWE, TNA, Media Journalists, etc) takes the facts out of context.
Nick Perkins' Personal Opinion
I have to admit, I haven't closely followed every news update about steroid use in wrestling. I guess I consider myself to be ever the optimist, but this letter has made me sick to my stomach. It's made me so sad, and maybe even a little embarrassed.
Wrestling has always been one of my best friends, and I mean that in the most literal way. There have been times when I've been sad, or angry, and I would turn on a wrestling show, and for two hours, I could escape reality. When even my closest friends couldn't make me laugh or smile, The Rock could with one of his multitude of comments about pie or strudel. Wrestling has been one of my favorite things for as long as I can remember.
Just like any relationship, I will immediately jump to the side of who or what I care about. I will defend professional wrestling against anybody. But honestly, it's hard to defend against facts. And the facts say that professional wrestling has, at the very least, been incredibly irresponsible with drug use, specifically steroid use, within it's companies. Lives have been lost because of steroid use, and regardless of whose fault it was, (the individuals, the companies, whatever)that is unacceptable. Plans have been put into effect to help make sure this doesn't happen again, but it still will. And that's a sad fact. I'm sure you, dear reader, will hear dozens upon dozens of opinions, facts, and opinions made out to be facts, but in the end, just know, that though our super heroes may seem invincible, they are not. Though our idols may seem like gods, they are not. They make mistakes. They make decisions that have negative consequences. They are human. Is it our place to judge them? Absolutely not. But we should be aware. And maybe, some day, this industry that you and I love so much can be something that we don't have to defend as strongly as we do now, and will have to do even more in the coming weeks, months, and years.
It's being reported by The New York Post that government officials will be voting on a bill soon which will determine whether or not Mixed Martial Arts is legalized in the Empire State. If it's approved, the sport could potentially have a decent sized economic impact on WWE considering Madison Square Garden could become a key venue for companies like UFC. Below are excerpts from the New York Post, and you can read the entire article if you click here.
"Of the 44 states that have athletic commissions, 36 regulate MMA. The New York State Athletic Commission is one of the most thorough and meticulous commissions in the country. It would be just as diligent in regulating MMA, which chairman Melvina Lathan supports.
If the bill is approved and signed by Gov. Patterson, the UFC said it will hold an event at Madison Square Garden in late 2009.
"It's definitely inevitable and the sooner the better," Serra said. "I think they'll be selling out Madison Square Garden in record time. I think it's going to be insane. I know from just walking around Manhattan and Long Island and the e-mails I get, it will be such an historic event."
It's an event that's long overdue."
The following press release was sent out earlier tonight:
PRESS RELEASE 12/28/2008
Re: CHYNA’s Hospital Visit!
As reported early Saturday morning Chyna was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Burbank, Ca.
Upon finishing the video shoot for Lovechild’s new single, Chyna and a couple of friends including myself, Jeff Bauer AD on the Lovechild shoot, had a few drinks to celebrate her birthday and the end of a great shoot.
Unfortunately, newly prescribed medication she is taking had a very adverse effect combined with the alcohol and Chyna blacked out and fell into her mirrored closet doors. She received minor cuts on her arms and legs.
She spent half the day Saturday at St. Joseph’s emergency and was released by the doctors without being admitted to the hospital.
Chyna is doing fine if not a little embarrassed about forgetting she was on this new medication. The family at Hybrid Culture Entertainment is with her.
Chyna is a delight on the set and we at Hybrid Culture welcome her anytime she is willing to be involved in one of our productions.
Jeff Bauer
Mad Dad Promotions
Assistant Director, Lovechild video shoot
818/536-9337
Laurer was taken to the hospital for a psych evaluation but her blood alcohol level was too high to test her.
In a follow up to an earlier report, it is believed that Joanie "Chyna" Laurer mixed a bottle of prescription pills and vodka together, which sent her to the hospital.
According to a source close to Laurer, she may have been trying to commit suicide. Laurer is still hospitalized, and is waiting on a mental evaluation.
Mike Esterman, Laurer's manager, has stated that once she is released from the hospital, Laurer will go into rehab.
At Monday's Raw in Toronto, two anti-Cena signs were quite visible on camera when Cena himself got on the mic to introduce the returning Trish Stratus as his tag team partner for his match with Santino Marella and Beth Phoenix. The signs read "Cuck Fena" and "We've Cena 'Nuff!" - which was held up a few moments later. Both signs were held up by the same person, and quickly confiscated by security.
As recently as a few months ago - and definitely a few years ago when WWE marketed products featuring catchy slogans such as "Ruck Fules!", "Blow me ... Into the Stratusphere!", "APA - Always Pounding Ass", and "Wine me, Dine me, 619 me!" - both signs would have passed through, but that's not the case anymore due to the company's new-found kid-friendly directive, as well as WWE becoming more meticulous over what appears on-air.
As noted earlier, Jim Ross talked about the confiscated fan signs in his most recent blog and said those types of signs are not going to pass through in this day and age. Ross wrote: "As I have said many times, I am all for freedom of speech unless it crosses the line in the form of signs that essentially profanely scream, "please look at me." The "Cuck Fena" sign that was wisely confiscated in Toronto is a good example of crossing the line. It's akin to the "Tuck Fexas" shirt some here in Oklahoma wear. Bad taste...not cool. There was a time when that sort of material was actually encouraged and marketed in the WWE but that attitudinal ship has sailed."
Just to note, there is always a guy on a headset sitting by the announcers, and he is the person in charge of directing security to confiscate questionable fan signs, at least upon hearing from the people in the production truck. Sometimes he'll even get out of his chair and confiscate the questionable fan signs himself.
SmackDown Diva Maria posted a blog on the WWE Universe site responding to people criticizing her for not being a great wrestler. "I am not a person to respond to anger and cruelty but lately I have had such a hard time even getting on this site," Maria said addressing the criticism. "Mind you I do not claim to be the greatest wrestler or the quickest learner. I work hard, I get in the ring, (and) I try and still can't win. ... Wrestling is hard. I love it and that is what keeps me going. I love what I do." Maria added more on the negative comments. "If you want to be negative that is okay. I just can't read your comments cause negativity breeds negativity. I refuse to get down on myself. I could lose a million times and mess up a thousand things and as long as I love being out there I continue to march on."
The WWE Tribute to the Troops special, which aired on December 20th, scored a 0.9 broadcast rating with 2.9 million viewers overall.
WWE has started offering long-term contracts to several big stars with clauses strongly favoring the company. WWE has offered a five-year contract to Rey Mysterio and a ten-year contract to Randy Orton. The WWE contracts barely provide any way out for the wrestler, but are filled with out clauses that would let the company out of the deal.
For example, if there is a three-year contract, WWE could break it at any time with just 90 days notice. Some top stars have enough leverage to broker better deals, but the company is still strict about protecting themselves without clauses.
WWE would be protected if Mysterio suffered another injury or Orton had a serious meltdown and the company wanted out of the deals. In case of injury, WWE merely pays the downside guarantee, so there is incentive for wrestlers to continue working. WWE put the policy put in place in response to various wrestlers milking WCW's guaranteed contract system. This leaves the wrestlers with very little leverage.
Basically, if the wrestler is locked in for a long-term deal, the company can opt out at any time they please, so it's basically a no-lose situation for World Wrestling Entertainment.
Starting soon WWE will stop the branding of referees and all refs will wear the same shirts (likely the traditional black & white stripes), and only two refs will be going out on the road for Raw & Smackdown House Shows rather than three.
Whether this will lead to any refs being released is unknown.
Some refs also work on ring crews. Mike Posey & Charles Robinson are examples. It is possible they could be booked on some shows only as ring crew now rather than as ring crew and as refs too, as ref pay falls under the talent budget and ring crew pay falls under a different budget.
The reason why WWE wrote Ted DiBiase off television is due to him starring in "The Marine 2", WWE's second straight-to-DVD movie.
John Cena will not be apart of the movie outside of a possible cameo appearance.
It's unlikely DiBiase will be returning to television anytime soon.
A contributer for the UK Sun called into the Voice of Wrestling radio show last night claiming that a couple of WWE wrestlers he had interviewed last week, including William Regal, stated that WWE may be interested in A.J. Styles once his contract expires.
WrestleZone.com can now report with relative certainty that although WWE did approach A.J. Styles about coming over, it is most likely Styles will be staying with TNA.
WWE has edited the forthcoming Eddie Guerrero DVD by removing any mention of Chris Benoit from the Guerrero tribute show that aired on Raw. In addition, the storyline between him and Chyna has been removed out of respect to Vickie.
"Prior to receiving the letter, I got a call from Brian Knobs who informed me that Vince’s surrogate Johnny Ace called Brian, who hasn’t worked for WWE in a decade, and threatened him not to go near any WWE talent or events as no one who is associated with CCW will ever work for WWE again. Then I found out that Jimmy Hart, one of the hardest working and loyal people I have ever met, was told he was no longer going to be used for WWE promotions because of his association with CCW, even though he asked for and received permission to do our show! As we subsequently learned, Vince went ballistic after viewing an episode of CCW and ordered Johnny to make the calls."
"According to Brian, Johnny told him that Vince was furious that CCW “exposed” the business. If that statement weren’t so transparent it would almost be funny. Even the most die-hard WWE loyalist knows that Vince has exposed the business more than anyone in history whenever it suits his financial self-interest (see avoiding regulation and taxation by athletic commissions) or lame creative decisions (Hornswaggle)."
In addition, Edge made his WWE return as he defeated Triple H and Vladimir Kozlov in a triple threat match to win the WWE Championship. Jerry Lawler pointed out at the end of the event that this was the first time in Survivor Series history that the two major titles have changed hands. He is incorrect. Both the WWE Title and World Title changed hands at Survivor Series in 2002 when Big Show and Shawn Michaels won the respective belts.
Event: WWE Survivor Series Pay-Per-View
Airdate: Sunday, November 23rd, 2008 (Live On Pay-Per-View)
Location: The TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, MA
Results by WrestleView.com
- The WWE promo hits.
- A video package airs focusing on John Cena's injury back in August and his return tonight facing Chris Jericho for the World Heavyweight Title.
- A graphic opening then hits welcoming us to Survivor Series. We go live to the Boston Garden where a series of pyro goes off in the entrance area.
- Jim Ross and Tazz bring up the worked Jeff Hardy situation where he was found unconscious in his hotel in Boston. They said they are "investigating" the situation.
- Out first is Shawn Michaels to kick off the show.
Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
Team HBK (Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio, The Great Khali & Cryme Tyme) vs. Team JBL (JBL, Kane, MVP, John Morrison & The Miz)
We start with Rey Mysterio and MVP. Lock up and MVP drives a knee into Mysterio's gut a few times. MVP gets in a few forearms, but Mysterio catches him with a big boot in the corner. MVP brushes it off and takes out Mysterio quickly in the corner. Mysterio with a huracanrana on MVP and a dropkick. Cover and MVP quickly kicks out. Tag to JTG who kicks MVP with Mysterio. They finish it off with a double dropkick to MVP, cover and MVP again kicks out. JTG with some big right hands to MVP. MVP then takes out JTG with a dropkick to the knee and a huge running knee to the head. MVP pins JTG and gets the pinfall.
JTG is eliminated.
The Great Khali is in and Khali chops MVP. Cover and MVP is gone.
MVP is eliminated.
Kane enters the ring and stares down Khali. Kane with a kick a big uppercut. Khali takes down Kane with a big clothesline and a big headbutt. Khali throws Kane to the corner and gets in a few kicks and elbows. Loud "KHALI" chant believe it or not. Kane with another uppercut, chokeslam attempt, but Khali counters and elbows Kane in the head. Khali chops Kane and tags in Mysterio. Mysterio goes up top on Khali's shoulders and jumps off splashing Kane. Cover and Mysterio gets the win.
Kane is eliminated.
John Morrison hits the ring and starts stomping over Mysterio. Morrison misses a splash in the corner and Mysterio gets in a few shots. Mysterio with a dropkick and tilt-a-whirl takedown on Morrison. Tag to Shad who launches Mysterio right into Morrison in the corner. Shad lifts up Morrison and drops him back down over the mat. Shad misses a shot in the corner on Morrison. Morrison with some right hands on Shad. Tag to The Miz who kicks Shad and gets in a few forearms. Tag back to Morrison who taunts at the crowd and continues working on Shad. Tag back to Miz. Shad takes both down with a double clothesline. Shad splashes Miz in the corner and powerslams him back down. Shad drops an elbow on Miz, but Morrison interferes to prevent a finish. Miz takes advantage and hits the Reality Check. Cover by Miz and he gets the pinfall.
Shad is eliminated.
It is now three on three as the captain Shawn Michaels enters the ring for the first time. HBK locks up with Miz. Miz gets in a few kicks and punches in the corner. HBK turns it around and chops Miz a few times. Miz with a big jumping clothesline on HBK in the corner. Miz with a catapult right into Morrison who tagged himself in and springboards back in the ring taking out HBK. Captain JBL gets the tag and he drives HBK into the corner. JBL throws some big rights. JBL with a swinging neckbreaker and elbow drop combo on HBK. Cover by JBL and HBK kicks out. HBK fights back with some chops. JBL pushes HBK to the corner and tags in Miz. Miz with a huge left hand that levels HBK. Miz with a leg drop, cover and HBK kicks out. Miz mounts HBK and gets in some big left hands. Another cover by Miz and HBK again kicks out. HBK is busted open over his eye and we see a replay of how JBL's right hands caused it. Tag to Morrison who jumps on HBK and applies a headlock. Morrison tries to toss HBK over the top rope, HBK holds on, kicks Miz, pulls himself back in and Morrison cuts him off. Morrison with a flying forearm taking out HBK and flips up just like HBK. Morrison scoop slams HBK near the corner, goes up to the top turnbuckle, attempts a flying elbow, but HBK rolls out of the way. Tag to Miz and Mysterio. Mysterio takes out Miz with a flying huracanrana. Mysterio gets flipped over the corner, lands and then springboard dropkicks Miz into the ropes. Mysterio with a 619 on Miz. Mysterio finishes off Miz with a flying body splash from the top rope and gets the pinfall.
The Miz is eliminated.
It is now three on two in favor of Team HBK. Mysterio flips over Morrison sending him into the ropes setting up another 619. JBL tags himself in and levels Mysterio. JBL with a big forearm and kick to Mysterio. JBL drops a few elbows over Mysterio. JBL with a cover and Mysterio kicks out. JBL sends Mysterio into the corner with force and Mysterio bounces off. Tag to Morrison who stomps over Mysterio's hand. Morrison starts choking Mysterio against the ropes. Morrison with a backbreaker on Mysterio and starts stretching him out over his knee. Mysterio with a big kick to Morrison's face. Mysterio tries a jumping bulldog, but Morrison counters in mid-air into another backbreaker. Tag to JBL who works again on Mysterio's back. JBL then applies an abdominal stretch on Mysterio. JBL breaks it and kicks Mysterio on the mat. JBL with a big kick to the back of Mysterio's head. JBL puts Mysterio up on the top rope and JBL hits a few forearms. JBL goes up with Mysterio, attempts a back superplex, Mysterio hangs on, hits a few elbows, JBL falls back to the mat and Mysterio hits a flying moonsault taking out JBL! JBL's mouth is busted open after the moonsault. Tag to HBK who chops JBL. HBK with a flying forearm, flips up, atomic drops, scoop slam, knocks Morrison off the ring apron, goes up top, but JBL rolls away. HBK springboards over the top rope and takes out JBL. HBK returns to the ring apron, JBL pulls him down and hits a few big rights. JBL dodges a Sweet Chin Music attempt by running away, the referee is still counting, HBK hits the ring and JBL is counted out.
JBL is eliminated.
JBL can't believe it and starts screaming at the referee. In the ring, Morrison is ready to take out HBK with Sweet Chin Music. HBK turns around, HBK dodges it and levels Morrison with some Sweet Chin Music of his own. HBK covers Morrison and gets the pinfall.
John Morrison is eliminated.
Winners: Team HBK (Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio, The Great Khali & Cryme Tyme)
After the match, captain Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio and The Great Khali all celebrate the win. Khali puts Mysterio on his shoulders. All three men then celebrate throwing their arms up in the air.
- Backstage, Eve is with WWE Champion Triple H. She wants his reaction to the Jeff Hardy situation. Triple H said everyone seems to have their own opinion and doesn't want to get into that. He said Jeff worked hard to get where he was at tonight and is confident he will do it again. Triple H said tonight we will see the match that probably should have went down to begin with - Triple H vs. Vladimir Kozlov for the WWE Championship. He said although Kozlov is undefeated, he has never been to the big dance before and promises it will be a night of firsts for Kozlov. It will be his first Survivor Series, his first WWE Championship match and his first defeat.
Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
Team Raw (WWE Women's Champion Beth Phoenix, Mickie James, Kelly Kelly, Candice Michelle & Jillian Hall) vs. Team Smackdown (WWE Divas Champion Michelle McCool, Maria, Victoria, Maryse & Natalya)
We start with Beth Phoenix and Michelle McCool - both captains. Lock up and Beth goes to work on Michelle. Michelle flips Beth down quickly. Michelle with a dropkick to Beth, but Beth brushes it away. Tag to Maryse who shoves Michelle McCool off the ring apron. Michelle returns and tackles Maryse. The rest of the Smackdown Divas break it up. Maryse stares down Beth and Maria tags herself in. Beth lifts up Maria and throws her to the corner. Beth misses a charge and Maria gets in a few kicks. Maria with a takedown on Beth. Kelly Kelly tags herself in and hits a sunset flip on Maria over Beth that results in a two count. Kelly continues the pinfall attempts and Maria kicks out of each. Tag to Victoria. Kelly Kelly takes her out with a huracanrana and gets the pinfall.
Victoria is eliminated.
Kelly with another huracanrana on Maryse, but Maryse kicks out. Maryse with a backbreaker on Kelly and gets the pinfall. Kelly Kelly's bare ass was exposed here. Man she's HOT.
Kelly Kelly is eliminated.
Mickie James runs in all crazy and takes out Maryse. Tag to Michelle McCool again. Mickie with a takedown on Michelle, pinfall attempt, Michelle breaks it up, another bridge pinfall, break up, Michelle flips Mickie over her back and another pinfall gets broken up. Michelle with a russian leg sweep on Mickie and close two count pinfall. Maria hits Michelle when trying to break up a pinfall by Mickie. Michelle and Maria argue. Mickie with a DDT on Michelle and gets the pinfall.
Michelle McCool is eliminated.
Raw is up four to three right now. Rollup by Maryse on Mickie and gets the pinfall.
Mickie James is eliminated.
Tag to Candice Michelle and Natalya. Natalya with a takedown on Candice. Candice goes behind and takes down Natalya. Natalya attempts and locks on a Sharpshooter on Candice. It gets broken up by Jillian. Candice then spears Natalya and gets the pinfall.
Natalya is eliminated.
This is all over the place and not looking good. Maryse runs in and kicks Jillian. Jillian with a takedown on Maria, knocks Maryse off the ring apron, covers and Maria kicks out. Jillian with a flipping elbow to Maria in the corner. Maria gets on the shoulders of Jillian and hits a victory roll into a pinfall.
Jillian is eliminated.
Candice with a northern lights suplex on Maria and gets the pinfall.
Maria is eliminated.
It is now two on one with Maryse going after Candice. Maryse knocks Beth Phoenix off the ring apron. Maryse applies a figure four on Candice. Candice taps out.
Candice Michelle is eliminated.
We are down to Beth Phoenix and Maryse. Maryse lands a big heel kick to Beth, covers and Beth kicks out. Maryse catches Beth with an elbow in the corner, goes up top, jumps, Beth catches her, Maryse jumps off, rolls up Beth, but Beth kicks out after two. Maryse with a kick, but Beth goes behind and hits the Glam Slam as Michael Cole called it to get the pinfall.
Maryse is eliminated.
Winners: Team Raw (WWE Women's Champion Beth Phoenix, Mickie James, Kelly Kelly, Candice Michelle & Jillian Hall)
After the match, Santino Marella hits the ring and celebrates with Beth Phoenix. We see highlights of the match leading to the finish. Back live, Santino again kisses Beth's bicep and Beth gives him a kiss on the cheek.
- Backstage, Todd Grisham is with Matt Hardy and brings up the situation with his brother Jeff. Matt said he was in the hopsital last night and didn't get much sleep. He said Jeff was hit behind the head with an object and his status tonight isn't known. Matt said he doesn't know why this happened and wish he could tell everyone.
Casket Match
The Undertaker vs. The Big Show
The bell rings and both men have their fists up. Taker drops his and asks for the casket lid to be opened. Big Show gets mad. Lock up and Big Show breaks it getting in a few body shots. Big Show misses a big shot and almost gets tossed inside the casket. Big Show dodges it and moves to the outside area. Taker follows and Big Show gives him a big headbutt. Big Show then sends Taker with force into the padded guard railing. Big Show with more body shots and then nails Taker's face off the Smackdown announce table. Big Show clears away the ECW announce table as Taker comes forward again. He catches him with more body shots as Taker falls against the Raw announce table. Big Show continues to clear out the ECW table area. Taker grabs a TV monitor and cracks it over the head of Big Show two times. Taker then stands up on the Raw announce table, walks to the end, jumps and hits a leg drop over the back of Big Show's head crashing through the ECW announce table!
Taker picks up Big Show and gets in a few kicks to the body. Big Show rolls back into the ring as Taker follows. Taker misses the Old School and then Big Show takes out Taker with a big side slam. Big Show calls for the casket lid to be opened up. Referees open it, Big Show slides Taker under the bottom rope and throws him inside. Big Show calls for the referees to close it. They say Big Show has to. Big Show walks forward, tries to close the lid, but Taker blocks it putting his leg in the way. Taker with some big punches, sits up, climbs back into the ring and hits some big rights. Taker with a flying clothesline on Big Show. Taker with a clothesline on Big Show in the corner. Taker attempts a second and Big Show catches him with an elbow. Big Show starts going up the turnbuckle. Taker sits up, grabs Big Show and chokeslams him from the second rope to the mat! Taker calls for the casket lid to be opened up as Big Show gets to his knees.
Taker with a big boot to Big Show's head. Big Show falls through the ropes and into the casket. Taker goes to close the lid, but Big Show blocks it getting his arm up. Big Show catches Taker with a right hand and he falls back. Big Show returns to the ring and gives Taker a big chokeslam. Big Show leaves the ring and turns the casket over. Big Show looks to be done as he heads up the ramp. Big Show turns around and sees Taker sit up. Taker goes after Big Show. Flames shoot up from the ramp blocking Big Show. Big Show turns around and Taker hits a few body shots. Big Show counters and gets in more body shots putting Taker down. Big Show turns around and droids bring out a second casket and place it at the top of the ramp. Big Show sends Taker into the Survivor Series set to keep him down. Big Show lifts up the second casket and drives Taker face first into it. Big Show picks it up again, opens the lid, gets in some body shots on Taker, headbutt, but Taker fights back with some rights of his own. Taker then backs Big Show up against the corner of the ramp teasing he may fall off. Taker then grabs Big Show and launches him into the standing casket. The casket falls over and the lid closes with Big Show inside to get the win.
Winner: The Undertaker
After the match, The Undertaker gets down on one knee and poses.
- A promo for WWE Armageddon on December 14 airs.
- Backstage, we see The Bella Twins when Carlito and Primo walk up. Carlito confuses the two. The Gobbledy Gooker then walks up. They think it is Charlie Haas dressing up. Charlie Haas walks up asking what is going on. It turns out to be The Boogeyman.
- Backstage, Randy Orton is with his team. He said he didn't ask to be the captain tonight and if he had his choice he would be getting a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. Orton tells them to follow his lead. Cody Rhodes teases that Randy will probably get eliminated before all of them. Orton gets in Cody's face. Mark Henry breaks it up.
Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
Team Batista (Batista, ECW Champion Matt Hardy, World Tag Team Champion CM Punk, World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston & R-Truth) vs. Team Orton (Randy Orton, WWE Intercontinental Champion William Regal, WWE U.S. Champion Shelton Benjamin, Mark Henry & Cody Rhodes)
We start with CM Punk and William Regal. Punk grabs Regal and hits the GTS right away getting the pinfall.
William Regal is eliminated.
Shelton Benjamin jumps in and rolls up Punk for a close two count. Punk with a big elbow to Benjamin. We see a replay of Layla throwing a shoe at Punk after he got the pinfall on Regal. Back live, Kofi Kingston gets the tag and grounds Benjamin. Benjamin stands up and pushes Kingston to the corner. Benjamin gets in a few shots, counters a catapult, but Kingston gets in a quick shot afterwards. Tag to Mark Henry with Benjamin holding Kingston down. Henry with a big headbutt to Kingston. Tag to Cody Rhodes who gets thrown on his back by Kingston quickly. Tag to Matt Hardy. Hardy drops Cody, hits an elbow drop and gets a two count after a pinfall. R-Truth is in and Truth and Hardy take out Cody with a double arm drag. Batista gets the tag quickly from R-Truth and Cody bails. Cody then slowly returns to the ring and tags in Benjamin. Benjamin hits a few elbows on Batista. Batista levels Benjamin with a big elbow and suplex. Cover by Batista and Benjamin kicks out.
Batista with some shoulder charges to Benjamin in the corner. Matt Hardy gets the tag. Benjamin catches Hardy in the corner and tags in Randy Orton. Hardy with a clothesline to Orton in the corner followed by a running bulldog. Cover and Orton kicks out after two. Hardy with a big scoop slam on Orton. Hardy goes up top, but misses a moonsault when Orton rolls away. Tag to Mark Henry. Henry hits a big forearm and a few kicks to Hardy. Henry with a catapult on Hardy into the second rope. Cover by Henry and Hardy gets a leg on the ropes to break it up. Cody gets the tag and we see a double clothesline between the two. Tag to Benjamin and R-Truth. Truth with some big rights on Benjamin. Truth with a roll up on Benjamin and Benjamin kicks out. Dropkick by Truth on Benjamin, cover and Benjamin again kicks out. Truth with a spinning forearm takedown on Benjamin. Benjamin then catches Truth with the Paydirt and gets the pinfall.
R-Truth is eliminated.
Kofi Kingston with a flying cross-body from the top on Benjamin, but Benjamin kicks out. Kingston with a dropkick and forearm takedown on Benjamin. Kingston with his double leg drop over Benjamin that results in a two count. Tag to Henry who grabs Kingston and hits a big elbow leveling Kingston. Tag to Orton who stomps over Kingston's body. Orton drops a knee and Kingston moves. Orton with a suplex lift dropping Kingston over the top rope. Orton catches Kingston with a knee to the head attempting a shoulder charge from the ring apron. Orton holds onto Kingston dropping him with a big DDT, cover and pinfall.
Kofi Kingston is eliminated.
CM Punk runs in and begins kicking Orton. Punk with a side kick on Orton, cover and Orton kicks out after two. Orton with a big kick to Punk's face and tag to Cody. Cody levels Punk with a dropkick followed by a drop toe hold. Cody drives his knee into the back of Punk. Punk with a cross-body off the turnbuckle and Cody kicks out. Punk with a knew knees to the gut, knee to the head and running bulldog from the corner. Cover and Cody kicks out. Cody lifts Punk to the ring apron. Punk kicks Cody in the head, Punk goes up top, Cody rolls to the ring apron, Manu distracts Punk and Cody sends Punk off the top to the mat. Cody drops Punk with a big DDT, covers and gets the pinfall.
CM Punk is eliminated.
Matt Hardy catches Cody with a Side Effect, but Cody somehow kicks out. Tag to Henry who uses his power sending Hardy to the corner. Hardy then drop toe holds Henry to the corner. Hardy goes up and drops an elbow to the back of Henry's head, hits a Side Effect, covers and Henry pushes Hardy off after the two count. Hardy up top again, jumps, Henry catches him and slams him down hard. Henry covers and gets the pinfall.
Matt Hardy is eliminated.
Batista is all alone. Batista hits the ring right away and takes out Henry with a Spear. Batista covers and gets the pinfall.
Mark Henry is eliminated.
Shelton Benjamin goes after Batista. Batista drops him with a big spinebuster. Batista Bomb, cover on Benjamin and gets the pinfall.
Shelton Benjamin is eliminated.
Batista with a big boot on Cody Rhodes. Cody goes up top, jumps, Batista catches him with a big clothesline and then drops him with a huge powerslam. Batista picks up Cody, knocks Manu off the ring apron, Cody with a kick, attempts a DDT, Batista pushes him away, gets him up for the Batista Bomb, Orton tags himself in, Batist hits the Batista Bomb, covers Cody, the referee tells Batista that Cody is no longer legal and Batista stands up. When Batista turns around Orton drops Batista with the RKO and gets the pinfall.
Batista is eliminated.
Winners: Team Orton (Randy Orton, WWE Intercontinental Champion William Regal, WWE U.S. Champion Shelton Benjamin, Mark Henry & Cody Rhodes)
After the match, the last survivors Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes stare each other down. Manu attends to Rhodes as Orton stares both down and leaves the ring. We then see highlights of the match leading to the finish. Back live, we see Batista recovering as Orton stares him down.
- Backstage, Eve is with Vladimir Kozlov. She asks if Jeff Hardy not competing tonight will change his strategy. Kozlov said it makes no difference and tonight he will become the champion.
- We go to ringside with Jim Ross and Tazz talking about Jeff Hardy's status tonight. JR informs us that Jeff Hardy will not be competing tonight.
- A video package airs highlighting the events leading into tonight's WWE Championship match involving Triple H, Vladimir Kozlov and Jeff Hardy (who was to compete in the match tonight and no longer will).
WWE Championship Match
Triple H (c) vs. Vladimir Kozlov
They did ring introductions for the challenger Vladimir Kozlov and the champion Triple H.
The bell rings and here we go. Kozlov attempts a takedown and Triple H dodges it. Lock up, Kozlov with a takedown, Triple H gets to his knees and back to his feet. Triple H with a side headlock takeover on Kozlov. Kozlov tries to send Triple H into the ropes, but Triple H keeps the headlock locked on. Kozlov flips back breaking the headlock. Lock up and Triple H with a takedown on Kozlov. Lock up and Kozlov takes down Triple H into a wristlock. Crowd starts a loud "WE WANT HARDY" chant. Triple H counters into a wristlock of his own into a modified abdominal stretch. Kozlov with a fireman's carry into a wristlock. Triple H counters out of that and works on Kozlov's wrist. Kozlov misses a charge in the corner and Triple H goes to work on Kozlov's left arm. Kozlov with shoulder charges to Triple H in the corner. Kozlov follows that up with a few forearms as well. Triple H catches Kozlov with a flying knee. Clothesline by Triple H on Kozlov in the corner.
Another clothesline by Triple H on Kozlov. Triple H with a knee to the face and DDT combo on Kozlov. Triple H with a few rights to Kozlov. Some "TNA" chants even start to break out as Triple H lands a few more rights. Triple H then catches Kozlov with a big spinebuster as Kozlov charged from the corner. Triple H attempts a Pedigree, Kozlov pushes him away and catches Triple H with his headbutt to the sternum. Both Triple H and Kozlov fall back after this takes place in the middle of the ring. Both men are back to their feet. Kozlov sends Triple H with force into the corner causing Triple H to fly over to the outside. Kozlov follows Triple H out and hits a shoulder charge into the padded guard railing. Kozlov throws Triple H against the ring and hits some more shoulder charges. Kozlov sends Triple H back inside. Kozlov catches Triple H and hits a big fallaway slam as Triple H came off the ropes. Cover by Kozlov, but Triple H kicks out after two.
Kozlov with shoulder charges on Triple H in the corner. Kozlov locks the arms of Triple H and hits another headbutt to the sternum. Kozlov with a powerslam on Triple H from the corner, cover and Triple H kicks out after two. Kozlov applies a modified bearhug on Triple H on the mat. Triple H begins to stand up. Kozlov hits a shot to the lower back and drops Triple H with a backbreaker. Cover and Triple H again kicks out. Kozlov with another backbreaker, cover and Triple H still kicks out. Kozlov then again applies pressure on Triple H's body. Fans in Boston are not liking this match at all. Triple H with right hands to Kozlov to break it up, hits the ropes, but Kozlov catches Triple H with a big powerslam that results in a close two count. Kozlov again applies more pressure to Triple H's body. Kozlov with a belly-to-belly suplex on Triple H. Kozlov misses a right on Triple H hitting his head on the top turnbuckle. Triple H with a kick to the gut and Pedigree.
Vickie Guerrero then walks out with a mic and said this match will after all be a triple threat match. Vickie says, "He's here. He's here. Here he is!" Edge's music hits and he walks down the ramp.
Edge hits the ring and stands in the corner. Edge takes out Triple H with a big Spear. Edge goes to cover Triple H when Jeff Hardy runs down and takes out Edge. Jeff Hardy grabs a steel chair, tries to hit Edge with it, but cracks Triple H with it instead when Edge moves. Hardy takes out Kozlov with the steel chair. Edge then takes out Hardy with a Spear. Edge crawls over, covers Triple H and gets the pinfall.
Winner & NEW WWE Champion: Edge
After the match, Edge bails from the ring with the WWE Championship over his shoulder. He walks up the ramp and celebrates with Vickie Guerrero. We then see highlights of the match leading to the finish. Back live, Edge has his arm around Vickie while holding up the WWE Championship. Edge kisses the title and smiles as referees attend to Triple H, Jeff Hardy and Vladimir Kozlov.
- A video package runs highlighting the events involving Chris Jericho becoming World Heavyweight Champion and how he will face the returning John Cena tonight with the title on the line.
World Heavyweight Title Match
Chris Jericho (c) vs. John Cena
Lilian Garcia does the ring intros. Mostly pro-Cena crowd here tonight.
Great reaction for Cena's return! Cena has the scare on his neck from surgery. Cena goes for an FU right away but to no avail.
Cena sells his neck injury at first by constantly putting his hand on his neck. Y2J targets the neck early on.
On the outside, Jericho kicked Cena in the neck area, and asked the referee to ask Cena if he wanted to continue. In the end, Cena barely made it back in the ring to avoid being counted out.
Jericho rammed Cena head first into the ring steps. Back in the ring, Y2J continues to work over Cena's neck. Y2J applies a full nelson. The psychology here is that Jericho continues to work over Cena's surgically repaired neck.
Jericho tried to submit him using the full nelson. Cena took too much time attemping the five knuckle shuffle, and Y2J locked on the walls of jericho, but Cena was able to reverse it.
Jericho applied another walls of Jericho, but Cena was able to make it to the ropes. Cena hit a quick FU out of nowhere but can't cover for the pin. Only a two count.
Code breaker by Y2J, but only a two count! Jericho follows with a hard clothesline. Jericho calls for Cena to get up.
Cena gets up and locks in an STFU. Jericho kicks out and goes for a small package. Cena picks up y2J and hits an FU. 1, 2, 3. NEW CHAMPION! Official time was 21:20.
Winner & NEW WORLD Champion: John Cena
John Cena celebrates with the title as the show ends. John's father is in the crowd. He goes over and hugs him. His entire family is there. Brothers, etc etc. They air replays and the show ends.
The Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 video game may miss its November deadline as Vince McMahon is going back and forth about whether to leave Chris Benoit in the game. The designers haven't completely removed Benoit from the game yet and Vince wants him out obviously. However, if they remove him, it would require the game to be delayed and they'd miss out on the 2007 holiday season revenue, which is always the most lucrative quarter for video games.
There has been lots of talk of another WWE PPV being axed in 2008, likely Cyber Sunday. Instead of doing it as a PPV, they might switch it to another special three-hour Raw with the same concept.
All i can say is why did they start doing 15 PPV's a year in the first place? It's not like people are buying them if you seen the latest buyrate numbers.
Can I have just 1 PPV a month please?
RAW will be taped on Sunday night this coming week in Columbus, OH. The show features all four McMahon's and lawyers.
So expect spoilers to appear within the next 4 days.
Source: Ryan Clark Of ProWrestlingScoops.com
Before the first match took place at the SmackDown! Tapings, a Video package of WrestleMania 23 was shown. The bottom section and upper deck is pretty much sold out. There is probably around 9000 people in attendance to tonight’s tapings.
-- Johnny Jeter defeated Kenny Dykstra with a ensiguri
-- The Daltons defeated Dave Taylor Paul Burchill
-- Before SmackDown! Iraq tribute to the troops.
-- JBL on his way to the ring.
SMACKDOWN START
-- Opening video plays
-- Summer Slam Highlights
Show starts off with Teddy Long and the Great Khali in the ring. Teddy Long says that tonight they are going to determine a new number one contender for the World Championship title. Their will be a tournament to decide. Kane will face Finlay and Batista will face Mysterio. The winners of those two matches will face each other. Teddy then says, lets not wait until next week, lets get it started now!
Kane vs. Finlay
Kane dominates first half of match. Match ends when Kane hits Finlay with a clothes-line off the top rope. Kane then hit’s the choke slam on Finlay but the little bastard runs in and distracts Kane. Finlay rolls him up for the win.
Matt Hardy & MVP vs. Deuce and Domino
Matt Hardy was in the match the whole time and got dominated. MVP got the tag and through Hardy out of the ring and MVP got the win. So we have new tag-team champions. After the match MVP was in the ring celebrating with both titles while Matt looks on from the outside.
Backstage Vince tells Batista that he could very well be his son. He’s got the looks, and everything. Batista says, If I was your dad, id kill you.
In the Ring
Mark Henry on the microphone. Mark says the Undertaker is coming back at Unforgiven and that he is going to break his back. The lights go out and The Undertaker’s music plays. On the screen the video that they played ask week shows. The Undertaker didn’t come out but states that he will make his return at Unforgiven. Mark Henry stands in the ring while this is happening.
Video package shows of Mysterio’s return.
Batista vs. Rey Mysterio
Back and forth match. Rey Mysterio goes for the 619 but misses.At the end, Finlay runs down, hits Rey Mysterio. Mysterio wins by DQ and Rey advances to the finals.
Vince McMahon Segment
Vince comes to the ring with coach. Just like on Monday, Coach says he has a list of people Vince has slept with and he would like to bring them out. The first girl that comes out is from New York. Her name is Sheryl. Vince says he remembers that night because she is hot.
Next Coach brings out a 3-girls from Connecticut. He said he had a 3-some with them and he remembers them because it was New Years of 1997. Vince says he remembers that night because they are hot. He said he brought in the new years with a big bang.
Another female comes out by the name of Sister Merry. She is dressed like a nun. Sister Merry gets on the mic and says “Our one night together, who could ever satisfy me in the way you did in 1991 in the parking lot.” Vince says Merry gave her a new direction for church. He then comments that she is second to nun.
After that, Vince says next Monday on RAW, he has to confront the other members of the McMahon Family and he is not worried.
Chris Masters vs. Chuck Palumbo
Masterlock challenge
They set the chair up, as Palumbo was about to escape, Chris Masters let off the hold and ran out of the ring. On Palumbo’s way back to the back he has problems starting his bike.
-- Krystal Marshall and Teddy Long - Invitation to their marriage shows up on the screen.
-- The Dalton aired a promo that they are coming to SmackDown.
Rey Mysterio vs. Fit Finlay
Winner gets match at Unforgiven.
During the match, Khali comes down and gets in the ring and takes Mysterio and throws him. Rey Mysterio advances by DQ. After the match, they beat on Mysterio and Batista comes down to make the save on Mysterio.
-- Rey Mysterio vs. Khali for the title at Unforgiven.
-- After the match is over, they disassemble the ring and the announcers leave as they now set up for ECW.
Source: PWTorch.com
OPENER:
They opened the show with still ECW champion John Morrison coming out to the ring. They used a nice still-shot of Morrison grazing his feet on the ropes against C.M. Punk at Summerslam to retain the title. Morrison asked the crowd if they can feel it. He cut a poem about creating a new reality for Punk that he is the guru of greatness, the Tuesday night delight, and the ECW champion. Morrison said he accepts all realities thrown in his direction, then he talked about the fatal four-way #1 Contender match tonight. They showed Boogeyman on the screen and Morrison ran him down. Miz was shown next to a round of boos. Morrison smirked, then ran him down for performing acts on himself in the shower. They showed Big Daddy V to some oos and aahs. Morrison said let's just hope he doesn't win tonight. Punk flashed on the screen to a brief cheer. Morrison asked how many times he has to beat Punk before he goes away. Morrison said Punk doesn't drink, doesn't smoke, doesn't do drugs, and doesn't win championships. He said Punk took his eye on the ball at Summerslam and he will never defeat him for the ECW Title. Morrison said none of those four are enlightened enough to defeat him. Morrison held his belt in the air to close the segment.
[Commercial Break]
Kevin Thorn came out and they recapped last week when Thorn and Stevie Richards brawled backstage. Richards then came out for another match with Thorn.
1 -- KEVIN THORN vs. STEVIE RICHARDS
Thorn pounded on Richards early on, and Richards kept asking for more, so Thorn granted the request. Thorn chucked Richards across the ring before driving him into the corner and landing hard elbow smashes. He then kicked Richards hard in the face and choked him across the top turnbuckle.
[Q2]
Thorn followed Richards on the outside and continued to work on the throat area. Thorn re-started the ref's count before driving Richards back-first into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Thorn landed consecutive clotheslines to the throat. Richards didn't show much life, and Thorn continued to knock him down with clotheslines. Richards escaped a crucifix bomb, but walked into another clothesline to the throat. Thorn jerked Richards around and kept screaming at him to show him something. Richards suddenly hit a double-knee jaw breaker and roundhouse kicks for a nearfall. He had a nearfall following a roll-up, but Thorn caught him in center-ring with a torture rack backbreaker. Thorn then took Richards to a horizontal position across the top turnbuckle and hit the Original Sin crusher for the pin and the win.
WINNER: Thorn in 6:00. A step up from their previous encounters because it carried the tune of a personal feud. More than just spot a, spot b, comeback, nearfall - this had more of a real fight feel to it. Thorn showed something new that's been missing, although the crowd didn't get into the match. (*1/4)
[Commercial Break]
They aired a horror-flick video package on The Boogeyman. Some old school stuff with Boogeyman dumping worms on Sharmell, Jillian Hall, and JBL.
Backstage, Extreme Expose was hanging on Miz. Balls Mahoney then walked in and Miz said he was shocked by Balls winning last week. Miz, who looked slightly over-cooked, wanted to know if Balls's victory last week was a fluke or not, so he would be watching his match. Brooke and Leyla had a good laugh at Balls's expense, but Kelly Kelly hung around to tell Balls good luck tonight. Apparently Miz has booking influence these days.
On the other side of town, John Morrison talked to Armando Estrada about being comfortable when watching the #1 Contender match. C.M. Punk then walked in and dined on Morrison's catering, much to Armando's chagrin. Morrison said he knows why Punk is here: to beg for another title shot. Punk said he's here to earn another title shot and he won't have to put his feet on the ropes to do it. Morrison said a win's a win. Punk feigned hitting Morrison, who flinched. Punk laughed and asked Morrison what he's going to do. Punk took a bite out of some cantaloupe, then left. Morrison and Armando shared mad face looks.
[Commercial Break]
[Q3]
The Miz came out with Extreme Expose. He led the ladies to the announce area to have a seat and watch Balls's match. Elijah Burke then came out for the re-match with Balls.
2 -- BALLS MAHONEY vs. ELIJAH BURKE
Burke came out as the aggressor before Balls came back with successive scoop slams and a clothesline. Kelly stood up and cheered for Balls, who cracked a smile. Burke took advantage of Balls's distraction and kicked him in the face to take control. The fans chanted, "Let's go Balls" while Miz, Brooke, and Leyla had a good laugh at Balls's misfortune. Burke landed the flying handstand elbow in the corner, then sat down on a neck vice. Burke started landing jabs in the corner before Balls avoided a corner clothesline and rolled up Burke for a nearfall. Burke came back with a short-arm clothesline, though, and sat down on a chinlock. Balls escaped and hit a suplex before landing the Balls punches. He then hit the Nutcracker Suite for a nearfall when Burke got his foot on the bottom rope. They battled up top and Burke executed a big superplex before lowering the knee pads for the Elijah Express in the corner. Burke then made the cover for the win.
Afterward, Kelly was dejected while Miz gloated. Miz took the mic and announced Balls as the loser before leaving with Brooke and Leyla on his arms. Meanwhile, Kelly slipped into the ring and checked on Balls. After about 15 seconds, she was done checking on him, then she left the ring. She stopped halfway down the entrance ramp, then turned and waved at him near tears. Balls pulled himself up to the ropes to make eye contact with Kelly, who tried to hide her disappointment.
WINNER: Burke in 6:00. Match was stuck in first-gear. Burke gets a much-needed win, although they didn't exactly highlight him in victory. Good progress with the Balls-Kelly storyline. (3/4*)
[Commercial Break]
[Q4]
Miz was back in the ring for the main event. C.M. Punk then came out second. Big Daddy V followed out. Time for another break before Boogeyman's entrance.
[Commercial Break]
Boogeyman did his entrance, then everyone tried to gang up on Viscera before the bell rang.
3 -- C.M. PUNK vs. THE MIZ vs. BIG DADDY V (w/Matt Striker) vs. THE BOOGEYMAN -- #1 Contender match
Viscera fought them all off before whipping Punk into Miz and creating a double stack in the corner. Punk took the worst of it and slumped to the corner. Miz then walked into a lift-up slam and Viscera pounded his chest. Boogeyman then re-entered and danced around Viscera before Miz tripped Boogeyman and dragged him to the floor. Punk went for a cross body splash on Viscera, but Viscera tossed him over the top rope to the ground. The action spilled to the floor and Viscera pounded Miz across the chest. Same for Punk. He then went for a charging splash, but Miz and Punk moved, causing Viscera to spill over the guardrail to the floor. Back in the ring, Miz cleared Boogeyman to the outside for a while before smashing Punk in the corner with a flying boot for a nearfall.
[Q5 -- over-run]
Punk fired back on Miz with a combo of kicks to the head before missing with a leg drop off the ropes. Miz sat down on a neck vice in center ring, then the crowd rallied for Punk, who came back with a powerslam. Both men recovered on the mat, then Punk nailed a high knee in the corner and a bulldog in center ring. Punk hit a springboard clothesline on Miz for a nearfall, then he went for the Go 2 Sleep and connected. Punk then covered Miz for the win.
After the match, Viscera grabbed Boogeyman and slammed him on the floor. Punk then left the ring while Viscera returned to the ring a little too late. Styles and Tazz talked about Morrison's worst nightmare continuing with Punk coming back for more after earning another opportunity at the belt. Punk celebrated with the fans ringside while Viscera stared at him from inside the ring.
WINNER: Punk in 8:00 to earn another ECW title shot. Helter-skelter early on, then things slowed down for the Punk vs. Miz portion of the match. Fans were subdued probably in anticipation of Boogeyman or Viscera returning to the match at some point, but they booked four good minutes of Punk vs. Miz as a mini-test-run for a program down the line. In the end, Punk's chase continues. (*1/2)
