Past RAW Shows 2008
All discs are in the U.S. -
NTSC format,
English
language only.
RAW
# 763
1-7-08 LIVE
Mohegan Sun Arena
Uncasville, Connecticut
William Regal rolled the dice last week when he interfered in the Career Threatening Match between Ric Flair and Triple H,
costing The Game a spot in the Royal Rumble and putting the brakes on his World Championship hopes. This week at the
Mohegan Sun Casino, the Raw General Manager came up craps. In one of the most unique nights on Raw, the return of “Raw
Roulette,” Mr. McMahon spun the wheel and it stopped on a First Blood Match between Regal and Triple H. Even before their
match began, The Cerebral Assassin seemed to be on a mission, taking his frustration out on the haughty Brit when he
spotted him in a hallway of the Mohegan Sun Arena. Once in the ring, Triple H punished the Raw GM by drawing crimson from
the blue blood for the victory. How else will The Game’s rage and frustration manifest itself, knowing that he is out of
Royal Rumble and the World Title picture as the event approaches?
Mr. Kennedy’s obsession with Shawn Michaels continues. The Raw Roulette wheel paired the rivals against Trevor Murdoch &
Charlie Haas in what the Chairman dubbed a Strange Bedfellows Match. HBK and Kennedy didn’t exactly get along, but they
managed to defeat Murdoch & Haas. However, the loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis., left his mark on The Showstopper with his
patented Mic Check.
As if one Carlito wasn’t enough. Hardcore Holly battled the Caribbean Bad Apple in a Trading Places Match, meaning the two
were forced to dress up as one another. Holly — dressed as Carlito — managed to emerge victorious over the apple lover.
The vivacious Ashley made her triumphant return tonight, showing that anything can happen during Raw Roulette! The former
Playboy cover girl emerged victorious in a Lingerie Pillow Fight Match against Melina, Jillian, Maria and Mickie James.
Chris Jericho got more than he bargained for when he was forced to face off against Snitsky & JBL in a Handicap Match.
Just as he locked the yuck-mouthed monster in The Walls of Jericho, the Lonestar Loudmouth intervened with a brutal
attack. The “wrestling god” seems hell-bent on venting his divine wrath on Y2J as their Royal Rumble Match approaches.
Mr. McMahon told his son, Hornswoggle, he had to pick a tag team partner to face off against The Highlanders. The little
guy searched high and low – and seemed unable to find a formidable partner – until the Hardcore Legend, Mick Foley,
appeared. The peculiar pair went on to defeat the Scots and qualify for Royal Rumble. Imagine – Hornswoggle could pull off
one of the greatest – if not the greatest – upset in WWE history if he manages to win the 30-man Rumble. For former WWE
Champion Foley, this could be his last opportunity at glory. At Royal Rumble, everyone has a chance – and anything can
happen.
If Randy Orton thought his attack on Jeff Hardy’s brother Matt last week would derail the "Rainbow-haired Warrior’s”
momentum before their showdown at Royal Rumble, he found out tonight at the Mohegan Sun Casino that his gamble may have
backfired. Sweat drenched Jeff’s hair as he locked eyes with the WWE Champion. If looks could kill, he would have slain
Orton with his own eyes before the sold-out Mohegan Sun Casino. Despite the self-proclaimed “one-man dynasty’s” attempts
at sabotage, Jeff survived a hard-hitting Steel Cage war with Umaga, an opponent he’s very familiar with from their
battles over the Intercontinental gold last year. The Intercontinental Champion’s face was still sore from absorbing a
blast from the steel cage’s door, courtesy of Orton, but that didn’t stop him from sending the Legend Killer a simple
message: You can attack me and my brother all you want. You can get in my head all you want. But nothing – nothing – will
stop me from taking your WWE Championship away from you at Royal Rumble. Orton must have been convinced Lady Luck was on
his side when the “Raw Roulette” wheel for Jeff Hardy’s match with Umaga stopped on a Steel Cage. When the WWE Champion
caved in the skull of Jeff’s brother Matt and set back his recovery from an emergency appendectomy, he thought he had
broken him mentally. Orton attacked Jeff’s big brother – his best friend, his idol. For the first time in Jeff’s career,
an opponent had made a rivalry personal. Orton may have been convinced that he had crippled the Intercontinental Champion’s
momentum. He may have believed that he muddied Jeff’s focus and defeated him long before they step inside the squared
circle for the gold at Royal Rumble on Jan. 27. Orton believed he was in Jeff’s head. As illustrated by the white hot fury
in Jeff’s eyes tonight, Orton was right about one thing – he was in his Royal Rumble opponent’s head. The only problem for
the WWE Champion was that the Intercontinental Champion harnessed and channeled his anger inside the ring. Despite being
abused with brutal blows to his back by steel chairs provided to Umaga by Orton, Jeff refused to lose. He stunned our
fans – as well as Orton and Umaga – with a match-ending, death-defying Whisper in the Wind from the top of the steel
cage. (Yes, you read that right.) What did the normally laid-back Jeff Hardy see when he was battling Umaga? Did he see
Orton holding up his unconscious brother Matt by his hair and then punting him in the head? Did he see a snarling WWE
Champion? Perhaps Orton should heed these words from Jeff, uttered before his victory over Umaga. “Matt’s been with me
since the beginning. He was on this Earth before me. Every time I've fallen down, he's been there to pick me back up," he
said. "Randy Orton, you wanted to kick Matt in the head? Well, I got a message back for you – I’m taking your title at the
Royal Rumble and before then, I’m taking you out.” Randy Orton resorted to head games with Jeff Hardy after the
Intercontinental Champion pinned him in a tag team match on Raw. Now, after watching Jeff defeat the mighty Umaga against
all odds and channel his own rage to his advantage, what must Orton be thinking now? He may have tapped into a side of
Jeff Hardy that neither he – nor anyone else – may want to see. Who’s in whose head now?
MATCHES:
- STRANGE BEDFELLOWS MATCH -
Mr. Kennedy & Shawn Michaels
defeated
Trevor Murdoch & Charlie Haas
- TRADING PLACES MATCH -
Carlito defeated Hardcore Holly
- LINGERIE PILLOW FIGHT -
Ashley Masaro
defeated
Melina, Jillian Hall, Maria and Mickie James
- FIRST BLOOD MATCH -
Triple H defeated William Regal
- HANDICAP MATCH -
Chris Jericho defeated Snitsky & J.B.L.
via a disqualification
- ROYAL RUMBLE QUALIFYING TAG TEAM MATCH -
Hornswoggle & Mick Foley defeated the Highlanders
- STEEL CAGE MATCH -
Jeff Hardy defeated Umaga
Air Time: 2:07:52
Run Time: 1:48:50
RAW
# 764
1-14-08 LIVE
Mobile Civic Center Arena
Mobile, Alabama
Triple H may be down, but he’s nowhere near out. The King of Kings learned Monday night from Mr. McMahon that, despite
seemingly being eliminated from Royal Rumble contention, he may still be able to qualify. The new lease on life comes two
weeks after Triple H lost by disqualification to Ric Flair — thanks to William Regal’s interference — in a match that cost
him his spot at the Rumble and also set him back on his quest to recapture the WWE Championship. Monday night, though, The
Game unleashed his frustration and fury on his opponent, Snitsky. After losing by disqualification, an enraged Triple H
unsheathed his faithful sledgehammer and mercilessly pummeled Snitsky. At the end of The Game’s therapy, the Chairman’s
image flashed onto a screen overlooking the arena, prompting the irate warrior to hurl his weapon at the screen,
triggering sparks to rain onto the stage below. The Chairman later caught up with his nemesis to give him an earful. He
informed Triple H that his blind rage had made him too unpredictable. To calm him, Mr. McMahon told The Game that were he
to win his match next week, he would put him back in the Rumble. However, there was one catch: The Chairman offered no
clue as to who The Game might face or what type of bout he would be competing in. There’s little doubt that the match will
prove an enormous hurdle, but when someone tosses you a lifeline, you tend not to ask what type of rope they’re using.
Divas Ashley, Mickie James and Maria went up against the team of Jillian, Melina and Women's Champion Beth Phoenix. After
a dazzling performance by Mickie, The Glamazon finally pinned her for the three-count after a Fisherman's Suplex.
Shawn Michaels battled Trevor Murdoch in a Royal Rumble qualifying match. Despite his desire to face Mr. Kennedy instead,
the two-time Rumble winner and last year’s runner-up nonetheless defeated Murdoch to earn his spot in the match. HBK will
have to wait until next week to face Kennedy, who accepted his request for a rematch.
JBL used the occasion of his own “second coming” – his second Raw “arrival ceremony” to taunt his Rumble opponent, Chris
Jericho. After attacking Y2J with an electrical cord last week, the Lonestar Loudmouth used his words to pour more fuel
onto their already fiery rivalry.
In preparation for the Royal Rumble, Mr. McMahon arranged a Mini Royal Rumble Match for his son, Hornswoggle, complete with
mini-versions of Mr. Kennedy, Kane, Batista and Mankind. In a positive sign for the leprechaun, he tossed all four out of
the ring. The Great Khali then came down to rain on Hornswoggle's parade until his fellow Irishman, Finlay, stepped in to
stop him.
Add William Regal to the list. After defeating Randy Orton, Umaga and Triple H to keep his career alive, Ric Flair
maintained his winning streak by defeating the Raw GM and overcoming Mr. McMahon’s win-or-retire ultimatum for yet another
week. Flair can now look forward to facing MVP at Royal Rumble in a Career Threatening Match.
A hushed silence swept down on the Mobile Civic Center as WWE officials, referees and personnel rushed to Jeff Hardy and
WWE Champion Randy Orton’s aid. Our fans had grown accustomed to Hardy sacrificing himself and taking our fans’ breath
away with his death-defying style in the ring. But tonight, he used his body to try to fulfill a vow – to take Orton out
for his attack on his older brother Matt two weeks ago. As officials untangled cable wires and pulled the “Rainbow-haired
Warrior” and the Legend Killer out of the wreckage, it looked like he accomplished his mission … but at what cost? Hardy's
loyal fans and even Orton's most vocal critics clasped their hands and craned their necks to get a glimpse of the two men.
The sadistic WWE Champion didn't move as officials carried him away on a stretcher, but Hardy - to the joy and relief of
his fans - flashed a small victory sign while he lay on the gurney. At first, it appeared history would be made tonight on
Raw. Orton had laid a challenge to Hardy to put his title on the line and give the third-generation Superstar an
opportunity to become one of three men to simultaneously hold the Intercontinental Championship and the WWE Championship.
Our fans had an opportunity to see Orton and Hardy tangle less than two weeks before Royal Rumble. However, one immediate
low blow by Orton suggested that he didn’t really care about history, but about eliminating his latest threat. When Hardy
saw Orton preparing to kick him in the head, it seemed to pour gasoline on the fire that has burned in his stomach for
weeks. He saw Orton kicking Matt in the head all over again and lashed out at the WWE Champion. Orton may have realized
that he set a trap for himself when Hardy threw him off the entrance to the arena floor, scaled the heights of the Mobile
Civic Center and hurtled him himself onto the WWE Champion. Hardy has always had a “devil may care” approach to life. But
he seems to have undergone a metamorphosis since watching Orton punt Matt in the skull. This was supposed to be a happy
time for the Intercontinental Champion; he has the greatest opportunity of his career in his match for the WWE
Championship against Orton. He has a chance to fulfill a childhood dream. But Hardy’s golden opportunity took a dark turn
with Orton’s attack. The self-proclaimed “one-man dynasty” made their rivalry personal. For the first time in his career,
Hardy didn’t just want to win, but wanted to hurt his opponent. He made no secret of it, either – he told the world on Raw
last week that he was going to take Orton out before their showdown at Royal Rumble. Orton was stunned when he saw Hardy
execute his patented Whisper in the Wind backward twisting dive off the top of a 15-foot high steel cage onto Umaga last
week for a thrilling victory. If there were any remaining skeptics, Hardy may have made all of them – especially Orton –
believers tonight. But again, what did he sacrifice to prove his point? Does he want revenge more than the WWE
Championship now? Despite his injuries, Randy Orton still has the gold. But will he be in any condition to defend it at
Royal Rumble? And will Jeff Hardy be healthy enough to take it away from him? Tonight, Hardy may have accomplished part
one of his mission. At Royal Rumble, he will want to complete part two of the mission.
MATCHES:
- SIX DIVA TAG TEAM MATCH -
Melina, Jillian Hall & Beth Phoenix
defeated
Ashley, Maria & Mickie James
- ROYAL RUMBLE QUALIFYING MATCH -
Shawn Michaels defeated Trevor Murdoch
Gene Snitsky defeated Triple H
via a disqualification
- MIDGET ROYAL RUMBLE -
Hornswoggle
defeated
Midgets: Mr. Kennedy, Mankind, Batista & Kane
- CAREER THREATENING MATCH -
Ric Flair defeated William Regal
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Jeff Hardy vs Randy Orton
ended in a no contest
Air Time: 2:12:15
Run Time: 1:58:22
WWE STARTS HIGH DEFINITION BROADCASTS
When Raw goes live tonight (1-21-08), our fans will experience a groundbreaking new way to experience sports-entertainment, as WWE
broadcasts in HD for the first time ever. To coincide with the HD broadcast, a revolutionary new set – made up of HD video
screens – will be used for all three WWE brands. Recently, WWE.com had a chance to sit down and talk with WWE’s 12-year
veteran set engineer Jason Robinson about the new HD set that will make its debut tonight.
WWE.com: What are some of the visually impactful elements WWE HD viewers will immediately notice about the new set?
Jason Robinson: The viewers will notice how vibrant the colors are. We’re going with a whole new set that is created
entirely out of video. People are used to seeing hard sets with things like mirrors and the fist on SmackDown. We have
more than 1.2 million LEDs (light-emitting diodes) that are going to be on the set. In HD, the rich colors that these LEDs
produce is going to be amazing.
WWE.com: Tell us about some of set’s new features?
JR: The set itself is all video, so we can change it to be anything we want it to be. It will be a set for all of the WWE
brands (Raw, SmackDown, and ECW). But when The Undertaker comes out, it will be gravestones and lightning bolts. When Kane
comes out, it will be all fire and flame. It’s a complete freedom of palette to create anything we want for the Superstars.
WWE.com: For fans in the arena, how does the new set add to the enjoyment of live matches?
JR: The set won’t be a stagnant one that just sits there all night. The fans are going to feel more a part of the
wrestler’s persona and who they are. They will see and feel the change when different Superstars come out.
WWE.com: How long did it take to go from planning to completion?
JR: We’ve been talking about a new set for a couple of years. Once we had a definitive idea of what we wanted to do, it
took about three months to go from the planning stage to completion. The technology available to our industry – HD,
lighting, sound and video – all merged together at the right time for us to put together a great set.
WWE.com: This is the first time that one set will be used for all WWE brands – Raw, SmackDown, ECW. What sort of
challenges does that present?
JR: There are some challenges, but there is some ease. It’s easier for the crew because they have only one set to put up.
It’s harder on us, from a creative point-of-view, to make the set different for four shows, even though the set is
physically the same. We have to let it all hang out and get as creative as we can.
WWE.com: How big is the new screen compared to the TitanTron? How is it different from the TitanTron?
JR: The new TitanTron is full high-definition with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It’s about the same size as the previous
TitanTron, but fans will enjoy a much better, sharper image. We’ve gone to HD projectors and screen material, and we’ll be
feeding HI-DEF elements from HD cameras.
WWE.com: How is the set transported from each venue to the next?
JR: From show to show, we load the set onto 14 semi-trucks. We travel 300 miles every night to get to the next show. We
start unloading the set around 8:00 a.m. Fourteen hours later, we have a live event.
WWE.com: How many people are required to break down and assemble the set for each venue?
JR: Our crew consists of about 24 people who travel with us all the time, including lighting, set, ring, ramp, pyro,
audio, set and rigging people. They do the shows every day, every week. They do it all, including every pay-per-view event
we do. Plus, everywhere we go, we hire about 60 local stage hands. So, this massive team of guys hits the arena in the
morning, and the work like ants all afternoon until we hit rehearsals around 3:30 p.m. After we do our show and go off the
air, all those guys go right back to work. What took us eight hours to set up, goes right back into the trucks in about
2-1/2 hours.
WWE.com: Are there certain locations where you have to make modifications to the set, or use an entirely different set?
JR: When we created this set, we took into account that we might be going into different arenas. We’ll go anywhere from a
30,000-seat arena down to an 8,000-seat arena. The set is modular, so we can adjust height and other things to fit into a
variety of arenas. When we go to WrestleMania 24 in Orlando’s Citrus Bowl, we will use a completely different, special set.
WWE.com: About how many shows do you think the last Raw set was used for?
JR: I think our last Raw set and stage was used around eight or nine years…about 416 Raw events.
WWE.com: Will the “retired” Raw, SmackDown and ECW sets – either in part or in their entirety – be put on display
anywhere, or saved for historical perspective?
JR: At the end of their last runs, we’re taking them back to the warehouse entirely. We’ve yet to decide to scrap any part
of them. Who knows what you might see in the future? You might see that fist, the mirrors and the Raw set someplace else
one day.
WWE.com: What is the most fulfilling part of set design for you?
JR: The most fulfilling part of the design and creation process is the very first time it’s all turned on. The very first
day, before anybody ever sees it – when the set emerges, we turn the power on, all the lights swing out and the video
comes on – that’s when I get my first goose bumps. That’s the best part. What I’ve imagined, drawn and worked on for
months is there. It’s really cool.
RAW
# 765
1-21-08 LIVE
Hampton Coliseum
Hampton, Virginia
The road to redemption was a rocky one for Triple H on Monday night. The 11-time World Champion needed to overcome three
daunting roadblocks before he could reclaim a spot at this Sunday’s Royal Rumble Match. After displaying a menacing
unpredictability last week, Mr. McMahon offered his rival a second – and final – chance to qualify for this Sunday’s Royal
Rumble. The Chairman, however, gave no indication of who The Game might face or what type of match he would be competing
in. He found out soon enough. Raw General Manager William Regal told him he’d arranged an Over-The-Top Rope Gauntlet
Match, requiring The Game to throw three opponents over the top rope, Royal Rumble-style. The first barrier in The Game’s
path to the Rumble was the yellow-toothed ogre, Snitsky. The yuck-mouthed monster was determined to avenge himself from
last week, when Triple H repeatedly struck him with his sledgehammer. But Triple H’s resolve proved too steely to
overcome, and Snitsky found himself hurled from the ring. Next up, Regal introduced another massive obstacle, SmackDown’s
Mark Henry. The World’s Strongest Man assaulted his opponent with a series of thunderous blows. But a beaten down Cerebral
Assassin pulled down the top rope and tricked Henry into propelling himself out of the ring. Two down, one to go. The
final opponent in the match was… Regal himself. The Raw GM, who cost Triple H his Rumble spot to begin with, had suffered
greatly at his hands two weeks ago in a First Blood Match. Monday night, the vengeful GM nearly toppled his opponent over
the top rope before The Game managed to reverse course and send Regal out of the ring. The Game’s “three strikes, you’re
in” comeback ensures him a spot at the Royal Rumble and a possible look ahead at the main event at WrestleMania XXIV and a
12th World Championship.
First, his beloved Green Bay Packers lost their NFL Championship game on Sunday, then, the following night, Mr. Kennedy
dropped his match to Shawn Michaels. The Showstopper now takes both the momentum and the bragging rights from Monday
night’s match with him into this Sunday’s Royal Rumble.
Mickie James came out fired up this week, but ended up in a smoldering funk. She had vowed to pin Women’s Champion Beth
Phoenix – a foe she’s never defeated – but she came up frustratingly short when The Glamazon’s size and strength advantage
once again proved insurmountable.
Hornswoggle may have been given short odds for winning the Royal Rumble this Sunday, but he and Finlay proved just how the
two could pull off the most unlikely of victories. The pair cooperated together against The Highlanders and managed to
toss both of the Cousins McAllister over the top rope.
Chris Jericho returned to Raw this week after getting dragged across the floor by JBL with an electrical cord around his
neck two weeks ago. Y2J lambasted the Lonestar Loudmouth for trying to scare his children and insisted he would not relent
until he took out his rival.
The excitement Brian Kendrick felt at earning a chance to qualify for the Royal Rumble quickly turned to dread when he
learned that he would have to face Umaga. Despite a valiant effort, the high-flyer just couldn’t soar above the challenge
of the Samoan Bulldozer.
Two weeks after their Trading Places Match, in which Hardcore Holly prevailed, Carlito and one-half of the current World
Tag Team Champions once again faced off. Only this time, Carlito managed to overcome the powerful onslaught of Holly for
the win.
Before he won the WWE Championship, Randy Orton often called himself a “man of destiny.” As a third-generation Superstar,
he said he was destined for greatness – destined to hold sports-entertainment’s most coveted prize. But tonight, less than
a week before a highly anticipated championship match at Royal Rumble, a Twist of Fate from Jeff Hardy showed Orton that
their destinies may be intertwined. One Twist of Fate may have forced the Legend Killer to realize that Jeff Hardy could
be destined to take his WWE Championship away. Jeff Hardy’s dream come true could become Orton’s nightmare – and reality –
this Sunday at Royal Rumble. At the start of the night, our fans at the Hampton Coliseum were still abuzz over Hardy’s
30-foot Swanton Bomb onto Orton from last week’s Raw. Though the Intercontinental Champion and WWE Champion were carried
away on gurneys, it was a miracle that both men escaped serious injury. But Mr. McMahon, perhaps fearful that Hardy and
Orton would demolish each other before the Royal Rumble, ordered the two to put aside their differences for one night and
shake each other’s hand in the ring. In a rare show of a semblance of respect, Orton suggested to Hardy that he may have
underestimated him when he first emerged as his challenger. Unlike others he has pushed aside en route to the top – greats
such as John Cena, Triple H and Shawn Michaels – Hardy had never previously held the WWE Championship. Orton believed
Hardy hadn't come come to winning the title. He never really considered the six-time World Tag Team Champion a true
threat. But Hardy, Orton said, opened his eyes with his gigantic Swanton Bomb last week. “I’m glad you did it Jeff,”
Orton said. “You proved to me you are a threat. You did something to me last week that no one has ever done before. I
can’t close my eyes without seeing the image of you crashing down on me play in my head. ... You won't win the WWE
Championship this Sunday. But you've already earned something much more important – my respect.” Arguably, Randy Orton’s
first mistake was made weeks ago, when he underestimated Jeff Hardy. After all, Hardy has been focused on realizing his
childhood dream – winning the WWE Title – for months. That focus and determination enabled the high-flying Superstar to
defeat Triple H at Armageddon and become Orton’s challenger at the Rumble. The self-proclaimed “one man dynasty’s” second
mistake was making their rivalry personal. Unlike Orton’s previous challengers, Hardy was able to channel that rage. He
was able use it to send dangerous – and painful – messages to the WWE Champion, one of which was a borderline suicidal
Swanton Bomb. Orton’s third mistake was made tonight when he put out his hand and thought Hardy was interested in having
his respect. The eyes of the Cameron, N.C., native, who has grown up before our fans’ eyes over the course of a decade,
burned lasers through Orton. Was he reliving Orton kicking his brother Matt in the head? Was his mind’s eye replaying his
dive onto the WWE kingpin? Orton looked stunned when Hardy spurned him, shook the hands of Lilian Garcia, Jerry “The King”
Lawler, Jim Ross and even ringside fans – and then left him on his back with a thud. The rafters of the Hampton Coliseum
shook. This was not the Jeff Hardy that first debuted in WWE more than a decade ago. This wasn’t the same daredevil that
revolutionized tag team wrestling with his brother Matt. This was a man determined to realize his dream and carve his
legacy. As Orton lay semi-conscious, Hardy’s legion of fans knew they may have seen a glimpse of the future – the fate of
two Superstars. It may not be a miracle that brings Jeff Hardy the WWE Championship this Sunday at Royal Rumble, but a
stunning Twist of Fate. It may be his destiny.
MATCHES:
Shawn Michaels defeated Mr. Kennedy
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Women's Champion Beth Phoenix
defeated
Mickie James
Finlay & Hornswoggle
defeated
The Highlanders
Umaga defeated Brian Kendrick
Carlito defeated Hardcore Holly
- ROYAL RUMBLE QUALIFYING MATCH -
( OVER THE TOP ROPE GAUNTLET MATCH )
Triple H
defeated
Snitsky, Mark Henry and William Regal
Air Time: 2:11:36
Run Time: 1:54:10
RAW
# 766
1-28-08 LIVE
Wachovia Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Triple H is no fan of losing. So, when The Game got to choose his partner Monday night in a tag team match against Umaga &
Snitsky, he went with the sure bet, reuniting with his DX compadre Shawn Michaels. But reunions can sometimes be
bittersweet. Even as the longtime friends showed solidarity and vanquished their foes, the pair knew all too well that in
three weeks they will be trying to destroy each other at No Way Out. Earlier in the night, the two were chosen by Raw GM
William Regal to compete with four other Superstars — Umaga, Chris Jericho, JBL and Jeff Hardy — in an Elimination Chamber
Match at the pay-per-view, with the winner earning an opportunity to compete against the WWE Champion at WrestleMania XXIV.
One night after shocking the Royal Rumble audience, former WWE Champion John Cena showed that he’s itching to recapture
his title. He called out reigning Champion Randy Orton for a title match that night. Orton begged off, but agreed to
defend his title against Cena at No Way Out. But that wasn’t the last he saw of Cena.
If Randy Orton didn’t truly believe that John Cena was back after seeing his shocking return and victory in the Royal
Rumble, he received a painful message, loud and clear, from “The Champ” tonight on Raw in a thunderous FU. As Cena looked
down at a writhing Orton, his eyes said, “This is for taking everything away from me. This is for putting me out for four
months. In three weeks, I’m coming for you and my WWE Championship.” Earlier tonight, Cena made his return to Raw the
night after his victory at the Rumble. Though he had earned a World Championship opportunity at WrestleMania XXIV, he made
it loud and clear that he didn’t want to wait two months to get his hands on Orton. The Legend Killer had put Cena out
with a torn pectoral muscle in late September and forced him to relinquish the title. “The Champ” stewed for four months
and watched Orton walk around with the championship he never lost in the ring. Cena waited and fantasized about the day he
would get his hands on the third-generation Superstar and now that he had a confirmed opportunity in front of him, he
couldn’t wait anymore. “Philadelphia has always liked surprises,” Cena shouted. “Why don't we give them another one: You
and me for the WWE Championship, tonight.” Of course, the cunning WWE Champion refused to grant Cena the match tonight,
but agreed to meet him at No Way Out. Orton believed that he had finished his business with Cena for the night, but "The
Champ" warned him that he "wanted some" and was coming to get some. This threat rattled Orton a bit. He focused on a tag
team match he was to have with JBL against Jeff Hardy & Chris Jericho, and the "wrestling god" assured him that he would
watch his back in case Cena showed up later. Someone may have wanted to advise Orton to look over his shoulder at everyone
during the tag team war, especially since both his partner and his opponents were named among the six competitors in the
Elimination Chamber Match at No Way Out. The sole survivor of the Chamber gets an opportunity at the WWE Championship, and
Orton knew that JBL, Y2J and Hardy all want what he has. While he remains WWE Champion, Orton is a target for every
Superstar. While focused on Cena, Orton never thought that JBL would bail on him - until it was too late. When the
familiar barbs of Cena's music blared after Orton and JBL were victorious, the self-made millionaire abandoned the WWE
Champion. As Cena would say, “You can’t see me” – but Orton saw him and couldn't do a thing about it. Take heed, Orton –
“The Champ” is back and he wants to have his gold back. There will be no way out when you and Cena collide for the gold in
three weeks in Las Vegas. Cena has fired the first shot; tonight he told you he wants you to be ready.
Mickie James paired with Ashley to confront the challenge of Jillian Hall & Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix in a tag team
match. Mickie came oh-so-close to pinning The Glamazon only to fall short again.
For the second consecutive week, Carlito turned up his game and defeated a member of the World Tag Team Champions. This
time, the Caribbean Bad Apple pinned down Cody Rhodes.
Hornswoggle took his lumps Monday night, but not in the ring. After what the Chairman called his “cowardly” performance
the night before, Mr. McMahon informed his bastard son that he was ashamed of him and didn’t even want to be around him.
Ouch!
In his match against Mr. Kennedy, Brian Kendrick hoped to make a statement. Unfortunately, Mr. Kennedy was eager to make
his own declaration. The loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis. not only pummeled his opponent, he also announced that he will
challenge Ric Flair in a Career Threatening Match at No Way Out.
During her match with Melina, Maria found herself with her pants around her knees compliments of her overly aggressive
opponent. But just as Maria was beginning to strut her panty-clad stuff, her "boyfriend" Santino Marella jumped into the
ring, wrapped his jacket around her waist and lambasted the audience for getting a free show.
MATCHES:
Women's Champion Beth Phoenix & Jillian Hall
defeated
Mickie James & Ashley
Carlito defeated Cody Rhodes
Triple H & Shawn Michaels
defeated
Gene Snitsky & Umaga
Mr. Kennedy defeated Brian Kendrick
Maria defeated Melina
WWE Champion Randy Orton & J.B.L.
defeated
Intercontinental Champion Jeff Hardy & Chris Jericho
Air Time: 2:06:44
Run Time: 1:49:18
RAW
# 767
2-4-08 LIVE
Frank Erwin Center
Austin, Texas
This week’s Raw offered a sneak peek at the possible carnage yet to come at No Way Out in less than two weeks. When Raw
Superstars involved in one of the Elimination Chamber Matches at No Way Out began to try to make their points –
physically – on why they deserve to be in the main event at WrestleMania and challenge the WWE Champion, General Manager
William Regal interrupted the skirmish to inform them that they would be competing that night in a Six-Man Tag Team Match.
Regal arranged for Jeff Hardy, Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels to battle Umaga, JBL and the yuck-mouthed ogre Snitsky, a
Superstar not included in the Elimination Chamber Match but determined to prove that he deserves a spot. With the winner
of the Elimination Chamber Match earning an opportunity to compete in the main event at WrestleMania XXIV, each man was
eager to prove he had what it takes to compete for the WWE Championship. When the dust had settled, though, it was the
Rainbow-haired Warrior who dropped a Swanton Bomb onto Snitsky for the three-count and the momentum leading up to No Way
Out.
Mickie James let off some pent-up steam this week. In a Divas Tag Team Match pitting her & ECW’s Kelly Kelly against
current Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix & SmackDown’s Victoria, Mickie unleashed her mounting frustrations by handling
Victoria and pinning her for the three-count.
A keyed up Mr. Kennedy toppled his foe, Super Crazy, with an Inverted Figure Four Leglock before mocking his No Way Out
opponent, Ric Flair, for suffering a knee injury during a match with United States Champion, MVP. The loudmouth from Green
Bay, Wis., then called out the 16-time World Champion and told him it would be OK were he to forfeit.
The international pairing of Carlito & Santino Marella continue to surprise onlookers: This week the two topped former WWE
Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick. Things began to look up even more when the Caribbean Bad Apple and the
Italian Stallion confronted Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes later in the night.
In a non-title bout, World Tag Team Champions Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes prevailed over Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch.
Then the duo of Carlito & Santino informed the reigning champions that they had been named the new No. 1 contenders for
the title.
Tough love never looked so hated. As punishment for skirting the Royal Rumble Match, Mr. McMahon wanted his bastard son
Hornswoggle to join the Kiss My Ass Club. When it came time for the little guy to pucker, though, Finlay interrupted. After
much yelling from Mr. McMahon, Hornswoggle finally leaned in… and bit his freshly buffed buttocks. As retaliation, the
Chairman not only arranged a No Disqualification Match against him and Hornswoggle, he also informed Finlay that if he
interfered he would be fired.
After John Cena made a shocking return to WWE and won the 30-man Royal Rumble, WWE Champion Randy Orton scoffed at the
idea that he was a “hothead” and wondered how he could possibly be 100 percent healthy for their championship match at No
Way Out. Tonight, even though Cena symbolically gave the Legend Killer the finger with an FU on the nearly-400 pound Mark
Henry, seeds of doubt were possibly planted about his health. The ring in the sold-out Frank Erwin Center rumbled and our
fans’ jaws dropped when “The Champ” hoisted SmackDown’s World’s Strongest Man on his shoulders, held him so an onlooking
Orton could see and then sent him crashing to the mat. Orton’s eyes may have bulged at seeing Cena’s feat of strength, but
he likely more focused his No Way Out opponent’s Arm Wrestling Match with Henry just moments earlier. Though he was up
against the mountainous World’s Strongest Man – and anyone would look weak against Henry – it was noticeable that Cena
favored his right arm. The scar on Cena’s right shoulder tells the story. It tells the story of the surgery he had to
repair the pectoral muscle that was torn off the bone because of Orton four months ago. Cena had to relinquish his WWE
Title and sit at home, with no use of his right arm, for months while Orton emerged as the top man in sports-entertainment.
At first, doctors predicted Cena could be out for up to a year. But West Newbury, Mass.’s favorite son stunned everyone
when he won the right to challenge Orton for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania. By agreeing to Cena’s request to
challenge for the title early at No Way Out, Orton may have taken advantage of the former champ's anxiousness to regain
the gold. He may have turned Cena’s greatest strength – his desire – into his Achilles Heel. At first in his Arm Wrestling
Match with Mark Henry,“The Champ” struggled and winced as he felt his right arm and shoulder. But then he showed his
trademark resolve and rallied and powered up against Henry until Orton blindsided him and interrupted the contest. We may
never know who would have won the Arm Wrestling Match, but Cena amazed onlookers. However, his initial struggle caused
even his most ardent supporters to wonder, “Has Cena come back too soon? Should he wait longer to challenge Orton?” The
scar reminds Cena of everything he lost; it fuels him. When he sees the scar, it reminds him of why he must give Orton a
beating and take back his WWE Championship. However, the scar also fuels Orton. It gives him a bull's-eye to target at
will – before and during No Way Out. The Legend Killer is hoping that Cena rushed his recovery and came back too soon. The
WWE kingpin would love to re-injure Cena and kill the legend of “The Champ” once and for all. Orton wants some déjà vu,
WWE-style. Imagine the satisfaction Orton would have at seeing Cena escorted from the ring at No Way Out, his right arm
limp, just like it was four months ago. Last week, Cena sent a message to Orton – and his chiropractor – when he FU’ed
him. This week, Orton gave Cena an Excedrin headache receipt with an RKO during their contrac signing for No Way Out.
Sure, “The Champ” made the self-proclaimed “one-man dynasty” take notice with his 400-pound FU on Henry, but that took
leg, back and shoulder strength, not arm power. So far, the battle of the physical mind games between Orton and Cena is
even, with No Way Out less than two weeks away. Ultimately, it may be the healthier Superstar who gets his arm raised on
Feb. 17. Orton hopes Cena’s not healthy enough to raise his arm now – and won’t be after he takes a gamble in Las Vegas.
MATCHES:
Mickie James & Kelly Kelly
defeated
Women's Champion Beth Phoenix & Victoria
Mr. Kennedy defeated Super Crazy
Carlito & Santino Marella
defeated
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Tag Team Champions
Harcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
defeated
Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch
Jeff Hardy, Chris Jericho & Shawn Michaels
defeated
Umaga, JBL and Snitsky
- ARM WRESTLING CONTEST -
John Cena vs Mark Henry
ended in a no contest
Air Time: 2:05:21
Run Time: 1:50:44
RAW
# 768
2-11-08 Taped
Frank Erwin Center
Austin, Texas
Things didn’t exactly go the way Mr. McMahon had planned. The Chairman arranged a No Disqualification Match between him
and Hornswoggle, hoping to teach his bastard son a lesson in tough love. But it was Mr. McMahon who was taught a lesson …
in humility. Moments after the bell rang, the Chairman heaved his reluctant son to the mat and berated him around the
ring. But that was before the arrival of Hornswoggle’s protector, Finlay, who flat-out ignored Mr. McMahon’s threats of
termination were he to interfere. Instead, the man who loves to fight ignored the possibility of losing his job – a WWE
opportunity he had spent years trying to earn – and not being able to provide for his family. He chose to honor his
friendship with Hornswoggle at all costs and stung Mr. McMahon with a crack of his shillelagh. As the Chairman lie
writhing in pain, Hornswoggle landed a Tadpole Splash for the win. Mr. McMahon, however, would not suffer in silence.
While being attended to by medical personnel, the dazed Chairman refused to fire Finlay, and instead he arranged a Steel
Cage Match with Hornswoggle next week.
John “Bradshaw” Layfield just can’t find good help these days. After losing his match to Chris Jericho, the Lonestar
Loudmouth thought his paid muscle, Umaga, was rumbling to his rescue. The Samoan Bulldozer, however, proved that at No Way
Out, it’s going to be every man for himself when he drove a Samoan Spike into both Y2J and a stunned JBL.
Paul Burchill knows how to make an entrance. The Raw newcomer introduced himself and his beloved sister, Katie Lea, to our
fans before facing off against Brian Kendrick and grounding the high-flyer for an inaugural victory. Burchill loves to
please his sister – what Katie wants, Katie gets. Who knows what else Katie will want – and to what lengths her brother
Paul will go to please her – in the weeks and months to come?
If Mark Henry sought retribution from last week’s FU by John Cena, the World’s Strongest Man came up disappointingly
short. Having recovered from his torn pectoral muscle, the former WWE Champion locked Henry in an STFU until he tapped
out. Watching from ringside, Randy Orton couldn’t help but notice as his No Way Out opponent exclaimed, “I am 100 percent!”
Last week, Mr. Kennedy offered Ric Flair a chance to forfeit their Career Threatening Match at No Way Out. This week, the
16-time World Champion told the loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis. that not only will he be there, he’s set on winning. Mr.
Kennedy left his mark before he left the ring by kicking the Nature Boy in his already ginger knee.
Maria seemed on the verge of defeating Melina again this week when, suddenly, Jillian distracted her with a lip lock on
her beau, Santino Marella to allow the Latina beauty to prevail. But Maria’s misery didn’t end there. Santino issued an
ultimatum: She has one week to choose either him or posing for Playboy.
As a groggy, stunned Shawn Michaels gathered his breath, he looked up the ramp at the Frank Erwin Center and gazed at a
winded, but exuberant, Jeff Hardy. The Intercontinental Champion’s body ached and his lower pierced lip was bloody from a
blow taken from HBK during their first-ever encounter – a prelude to their showdown with Triple H, Umaga, Chris Jericho
and JBL in the Elimination Chamber this Sunday at No Way Out. But Hardy was jubilant because he had just defeated the
legendary Showstopper and quite possibly emerged as the frontrunner to win the Chamber and earn an opportunity at the WWE
Champion at WrestleMania XXIV. Our fans were abuzz as HBK and Hardy pushed each other beyond their limits. In some ways,
they were watching two warriors who are mirror images of each other. Hardy’s career has somewhat paralleled HBK’s. Like
The Showstopper, he first made his impact in WWE as a revolutionary tag team specialist with his brother Matt. Like HBK,
he has become known for stealing the show with his breathtaking, devil-may-care style and has worn the Intercontinental
Championship numerous times. And as our fans have watched Michaels evolve and become one of the most decorated, respected
Superstars in history, they have also seen Hardy grow and become one of WWE’s elite. HBK often smiles when he sees Hardy –
he remembers when the Cameron, N.C., native debuted. Hardy reminds Michaels of himself from years past. Michaels, too, has
watched Hardy grow. Meanwhile, Hardy has always admired HBK and will always respect his accomplishments. He ultimately
wants to have the career that The Showstopper has had. Hardy has competed at WrestleMania several times and his trophy
case is nothing to sneeze at. But he has never been in the main event at WrestleMania; he has never held the WWE Title.
Since he was a young boy playing on a trampoline in his father’s backyard, Hardy has dreamt about main-eventing
WrestleMania and winning the WWE Championship. The problem is HBK – and four other crème de la crème Superstars – want the
same thing. No matter how much mutual respect they have, Michaels and Hardy showed tonight that they were very willing to
tear into each other and gain some momentum going into the Elimination Chamber Match at No Way Out. If anyone had any
doubt about Hardy’s toughness heading into his first Elimination Chamber, he may have opened skeptics’ eyes tonight.
Michaels, the winner of the first Elimination Chamber Match in 2002, punished the Intercontinental Champion. Composed of
10 tons of steel and two miles of chain, the Elimination Chamber is WWE’s most ominous, unforgiving structure. Buckets of
blood have been spilled and no one is quite the same after experiencing the Chamber. But when Hardy persevered after
enduring Michaels’ onslaught and tasting his own blood, he showed that he was more than ready for his first foray into the
Chamber. When he ultimately stunned HBK with a Twist of Fate and then drove the breath out of his body with his trademark
Swanton Bomb, he made believers out of roaring onlookers at the Frank Erwin Center. And judging from Michaels’ glazed gaze
at the end of their match, Hardy made a believer out of him, too – as well as the four other combatants he will battle in
the Elimination Chamber on Sunday. Will the Intercontinental Champion raise his hands in victory again at No Way Out? Did
he give WWE a glimpse of WrestleMania’s future? Hardy may want to beware – possible frontrunners often have the biggest
bull's-eyes on their backs.
MATCHES:
Hornswoggle defeated Mr. McMahon
Chris Jericho defeated J.B.L.
Paul Burchill defeated Brian Kendrick
John Cena defeated Mark Henry
Melina defeated Maria
Jeff Hardy defeated Shawn Michaels
Air Time: 2:05:19
Run Time: 1:50:46
RAW
# 769
2-18-08 LIVE
Honda Center
Anaheim, California
For anyone with a sense of family — or decency — having to watch a distraught Finlay carry Hornswoggle’s tiny, unmoving
body from the ring Monday night must have left them with icy chills and a sad, sick feeling in the pit of their stomach.
A week prior, a humiliated Mr. McMahon arranged a Steel Cage Match with his bastard son after losing to Hornswoggle in a
No Disqualification Match. In that bout, Finlay had intervened on behalf of his lucky charm despite threats by the
Chairman that he would be fired if he did. This week, Mr. McMahon ensured solitude for him and his bastard son and dished
out the most brutal form of “tough love,” thanks to the confines of the steel cage and of all people, JBL. With despair
haunting in his eyes, Finlay could only plead in vain to end the cruelty. But JBL stomped his boot down on the Irishman’s
plan, attacking him and handcuffing him to the ring ropes. The Lonestar Loudmouth then lumbered into the cage, where he
rammed Hornswoggle against the unforgiving steel. The brutality proved so great that even Mr. McMahon was take aback. Only
after the Chairman and JBL had moved from the ring, did Finlay, in a moving display of compassion, free himself and carry
his fallen friend to the locker room, where Hornswoggle was evaluated with head trauma and internal injuries.
The night after nearly winning in the Elimination Chamber at No Way Out, Jeff Hardy flew into Raw to prove that he is far
from grounded. The “Rainbow-haired Warrior” conquered the yuck-mouthed ogre, Snitsky, to qualify for this year's Money in
the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania.
Shawn Michaels did the honors as he announced that Ric Flair will become the first member of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of
2008. The Nature Boy also becomes the first active competitor to be inducted.
Paul Burchill sure knows how to please his sister, Katie Lea. For the second week in a row, the British brawler defeated
his opponent. This week, Super Crazy was sacrificed for Katie Lea’s delight.
After having his nose crushed at No Way Out, the returning Big Show was fuming and ready to confront the man who bloodied
him, WBC welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather. As the two exchanged unpleasantries, Big Show challenged the “Pretty Boy”
to a match, which Mayweather accepted. Stay tuned.
Mr. Kennedy may not have retired Ric Flair in their Career Threatening Match at No Way Out, but he did make a statement
the following night on Raw. The loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis., defeated Val Venis in the night's second Money in the Bank
qualifying match.
WWE fans rejoice! Maria will be posing for Playboy sometime this Spring. In a cynical play, her boyfriend Santino Marella
agreed to let her pose if she could defeat Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix. The tall order looked impossible until Candice
Michelle made her long-awaited return to Raw, and, in an attempt to avenge herself against the Diva who put her on the
shelf for four months, she distracted The Glamazon long enough for Maria to take advantage and secure the pinfall.
After Randy Orton robbed John Cena of a chance at the main event at WrestleMania XXIV by slapping the referee and getting
disqualified in their match at No Way Out, Raw General Manager William Regal arranged a non-title bout between the two
Monday with Triple H serving as guest referee. As “The Champ” pinned Orton, The Game intensely stared him down and
reluctantly gave him the three-count. Cena’s win sets up a Triple Threat Title Match for the WWE Championship at
WrestleMania.
MATCHES:
- MONEY IN THE BANK QUALIFYING MATCH -
Jeff Hardy defeated Gene Snitsky
Paul Burchill defeated Super Crazy
- MONEY IN THE BANK QUALIFYING MATCH -
Mr. Kennedy
defeated
"The Big Valbowski" Val Venis
- STEEL CAGE MATCH -
Mr. McMahon vs Hornswoggle
ended in a no contest
- NON TITLE MATCH "
John Cena
defeated
WWE Champion Randy Orton
Air Time: 2:07:10
Run Time: 1:53:41
RAW
# 770
2-25-08 LIVE
U.S. Airways Center
Phoenix, Arizona
Is Hornswoggle not the little grape sired by Mr. McMahon’s grapefruits? Is he really the feisty long-lost son of the “man
who loves to fight,” Finlay? These stunning allegations came from John “Bradshaw” Layfield after Mr. McMahon demanded that
he apologize for decimating Hornswoggle last week on Raw. The Chairman sheepishly admitted to the U.S. Airways Arena crowd
he “made a mistake” leaving his alleged illegitimate son to the brutal machinations of JBL in a steel cage while he
attempted to teach his son a lesson in tough love. When McMahon ordered JBL, the self-made millionaire made a revelation
that hushed our fans. “I’m sorry,” JBL responded. “I’m sorry I didn’t do it sooner!” With the Chairman flabbergasted and
enraged, JBL told McMahon that the little leprechaun might not be who he seems. “I have it on very good advice that
Hornswoggle is not your son,” JBL claimed. JBL claimed that Hornswoggle’s alleged ruse was a conspiracy that reached into
the highest levels of WWE and possibly included McMahon’s own family. As the Chairman struggled with the news, the
“wrestling god” also claimed that Hornswoggle’s protector, Finlay, knew all along that the leprechaun was not a McMahon –
but his own son. “Hornswoggle is Finlay’s son,” JBL claimed. “Hornswoggle had no idea … but Finlay knew the whole time.”
Mr. McMahon was stunned, but told JBL he’d face a worse beating if he’s lying about Hornswoggle. But the brash millionaire
promised to produce documentation that would back up his claims. “[Finlay’s] Irish eyes aren’t smiling. … They are guilty
as hell,” JBL said. “And the next time Finlay’s in a WWE ring – your ring – I’m going to make him admit it.”
Raw General Manager William Regal made the road to WrestleMania XXIV a rough one for Chris Jericho. Y2J wanted entry into
the Money in the Bank Ladder Match, but needed to defeat the red-hot Jeff Hardy to earn it in a qualifying match. In a
bout full of counters and near falls from both men, Y2J defeated the Intercontinental Champion to earn his second Money in
the Bank berth (he participated in the inaugural match at WrestleMania 21). The two will cross paths once again in
Orlando, Florida, at the Citrus Bowl, as Hardy qualified for Money in the Bank last week.
Shawn Michaels defeated former World Tag Team Champion Lance Cade by disqualification after his partner Trevor Murdoch
interfered. The Showstopper clocked both Murdoch and Cade for their trouble. After the match, Class of 2008 Hall of Fame
inductee Ric Flair came to ringside to thank HBK for making the announcement last week. He then asked Michaels to wrestle
him at WrestleMania XXIV in Orlando, Florida. At first, he declined due to Mr. McMahon’s retirement stipulation placed on
the Nature Boy’s matches. But he eventually relented, proudly accepting the challenge to face Flair on the Grandest Stage
in sports-entertainment.
In a non-title battle between the World Tag Team Champions and their No. 1 contenders, Cody Rhodes & Hardcore Holly
defeated Santino Marella & Carlito, thanks to Jerry “The King” Lawler’s invite for Marella’s Playboy-bound girlfriend to
do some guest commentary. As the new cover girl headed to the announcers’ position, Marella became distracted by Lawler’s
invitation, which gave Holly the opportunity to score the pinfall with his Alabama Slam, leaving the Italian even more
frustrated as the media attention flows to “his Maria."
Umaga is looking as dangerous as ever, dispatching DH Smith in short order on Raw with a devastating Samoan Spike. After
the match, GM William Regal announced that he’ll be sending Umaga to WrestleMania XXIV as Raw’s representative in a match
for “brand superiority” against a SmackDown opponent yet to be named by brand GM Vickie Guerrero.
Tonight’s Raw may have begun with a photo-op with WWE Champion Randy Orton and his two challengers for the WWE Title at
WrestleMania XXIV, Triple H and John Cena, but no one was smiling at the end of the night. Instead, all three Superstars
in the Triple Threat Match at The Grandest Stage of Them All had a mouth full of each other’s knuckles. Ah, WrestleMania –
it will do that to a Superstar, especially when the WWE Championship is at stake. As our fans in the US Airways Center saw
tonight, the Phoenix desert sun wasn’t the only thing heating up Raw. With WrestleMania XXIV less than five weeks away,
the tension between The Game, Cena and Orton is quickly approaching a fever pitch. They are each jockeying for position,
and trying to get an advantage before their Triple Threat war for sports-entertainment’s most coveted prize, the WWE
Championship. Triple H struck first last week, immediately flattening both Cena and Orton with Pedigrees after he refereed
and made the three-count that determined Cena as an official participant in the main event at WrestleMania. As Triple H
held the gold in his hands and gazed up at the WrestleMania XXIV banner in the rafters, his message was clear: No one – no
one – is stopping The King of Kings from reclaiming his throne. This week, Cena and Orton were still stinging and seething
from The Cerebral Assassin’s calculated, physical statement. If Raw GM William Regal expected civility and décor when
these three gathered for a photo-op, he was sadly mistaken. Their collective rage exploded as a melee broke out among them
and photographers at ringside snapped away. Perhaps that’s why Regal pitted these three – and WrestleMania Money in the
Bank Ladder Match competitor Mr. Kennedy – in a tag team match later that night. Regal knows that combustible elements
equal ratings. The Raw GM knew The Game and Cena wouldn’t be able to get along – these two have been rivals over the WWE
Title for years. Triple H has never forgotten how Cena made him tap to the STFU in a WWE Title Match two years ago, and
deep down, he wants to redeem that loss. Triple H and Cena didn’t hide the fact that they didn’t want to team with each
other at all. Meanwhile, Orton and Kennedy share a mutual disdain for both Triple H and Cena. However, before the match,
Kennedy made it clear to the self-proclaimed “One-Man Dynasty” that he desperately wants to win the Money in the Bank
Ladder Match at WrestleMania and the right to challenge any world champion at any time. So, even though the Legend Killer
had a partner tonight, he certainly couldn’t trust him, or anybody else. He eyed Kennedy, who has also been known to put
Superstars on the disabled list, warily throughout the night. This all set the tone for the tag team showdown. When they
weren't trying to on-up each other, Cena and Triple H managed (barely) to work together while Orton and Kennedy pooled
their resources, but no one trusted each other. Ultimately, the loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis., fell victim to Cena's
STFU, but that didn’t plant any seeds of trust between him and “The Champ” from West Newbury, Mass. The Cerebral Assassin
appeared to be ready to strike Cena when he suddenly turned around. As their stares burned holes into one another, Kennedy
snuck up behind Cena and blindsided him with a Mic Check. Triple H didn't look too concerned as Cena writhed on the mat.
He, like Cena and Orton, are transfixed on the WWE Championship. The gold is the reason they all decided to lace up a pair
of boots in the first place. Holding the WWE Championship at the end of WrestleMania represents all their dreams and
aspirations. It doesn’t get any better than that in sports-entertainment. But alas, the WWE Championship also brings out
the worst in Superstars. These past two weeks have only given a taste at what aggression – and potential evil – the Holy
Grail of sports-entertainment can bring out in men.
MATCHES:
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Tag Team Champions
Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
defeated
Santino Marella & Carlito
- MONEY IN THE BANK QUALIFYING MATCH -
( NON TITLE )
Chris Jericho
defeated
Intercontinental Champion Jeff Hardy
Umaga defeated D.H. Smith
Shawn Michaels defeated Lance Cade
via a disqualification
John Cena & Triple H
defeated
Mr. Kennedy & WWE Champion Randy Orton
Air Time: 2:08:44
Run Time: 1:55:17
RAW
# 771
3-3-08 LIVE
Conseco Fieldhouse
Indianapolis, Indiana
As WrestleMania XXIV draws nearer, two truths grow increasingly evident: Big Show refuses to relent, and Floyd “Money”
Mayweather refuses to be intimidated. These combustible realities were on stark display Monday night as The World’s
Largest Athlete overwhelmed a professional fighter, and his WrestleMania opponent, the WBC welterweight champion, vowed to
show why he is “The Greatest Fighter in the World.” Big Show arranged the exhibition with fighter Brandon “The Thrill”
Hill. Big Show’s choosing to battle the 5-foot-7, 150-pounder – who was similar in size and stature to Mayweather – was no
coincidence. The former WWE Champion appeared intent on sending a message as he overpowered his opponent in an MMA-style
match that could be won by pinfall, submission or knockout. Mayweather, however, was not impressed. And he reminded the
world that “The Thrill” was not “Money.” “I broke your nose,” the WBC welterweight champion told Big Show after watching
the exhibition via satellite. “And at WrestleMania, I’m going to break your jaw.” An incensed Big Show had heard enough.
To put an exclamation point on his winning statement, the 7-foot, 450-pound giant lifted his hapless opponent overhead and
tossed him over the ropes and onto the cold, hard concrete below. Later in the night, Mayweather addressed pundits who
wondered whether the reward was worth the risk. “Money” is risking his health, his career and millions in potential
earnings. But he is a showman and a man – and a brave warrior. He said he would defy the odds and bring Big Show to his
knees. “I’m here to dominate,” the welterweight champion told Jerry “The King” Lawler. Big Show will no doubt have a thing
or two to say about that. The two will meet again during an official WrestleMania weigh-in next week during a special
three-hour edition of Raw.
Before Ric Flair faces Shawn Michaels in a Career Threatening Match at WrestleMania, the two longtime friends joined
forces in a tag team match against Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch. Mutual respect was shown between the 16-time World
Champion and The Showstopper when Flair locked Cade into the Figure-Four Leglock and Michaels, not to be outdone, locked
Murdoch in a leglock submission hold of his own. However, after the match, HBK stressed to his idol that he did not want
to face him at WrestleMania and be the man to end Flair’s career. However, The Showstopper also warned the “Nature Boy”
that his show would be stopped if he continued to pursue their match.
Umaga offered a scary glimpse into what Batista might expect at WrestleMania when the Samoan Bulldozer crashes headlong
into The Animal in a Raw vs. SmackDown battle of the brands. Umaga disposed of his opponent, Super Crazy, in a quick,
brutal display. For his part, Batista sent a note stating that there’s nothing he’d rather do than face Umaga for brand
bragging rights.
Chris Jericho brought his classic talk show, The Highlight Reel, back to Raw and welcomed his first guest, Jeff Hardy.
Unfortunately for Y2J, their interview didn’t go according to plan. After stating that there will be no friends at their
Money in the Bank Match at WrestleMania, Hardy proved it by dropping his host with a Twist of Fate.
John Cena sought retribution against Mr. Kennedy after last week when the loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis., hit the former
WWE Champion with a post-match Mic Check. Last year’s Mr. Money in the Bank showed why he’s an up-and-comer, but The
Champ’s STFU proved too much for him to bear.
Santino Marella tried to sabotage the unveiling of Maria’s Playboy cover, but his girlfriend wouldn’t be denied. Instead,
Candice Michelle helped to reveal the cover of the magazine that hits newsstands March 7. Maria and Candice will also team
up in a BunnyMania Lumberjack Match at WrestleMania pitting the two Playboy cover girls against Women’s Champion Beth
Phoenix & Melina with a bevy of Divas surrounding the ring. It was also announced that Snoop Dogg will serve as Master of
Ceremonies.
Carlito dodged several near falls in a Money in the Bank Qualifying Match against Cody Rhodes. The Caribbean Bad Apple
applied a Backstabber on one-half of the World Tag Team Champions to earn the three-count and a spot at WrestleMania.
Finlay finally admitted that he, not Mr. McMahon, is the father of Hornswoggle. JBL then showed up via satellite from
Hornswoggle’s hospital room, where he slapped the little guy and challenged Finlay to a match at WrestleMania, which the
Irishman quickly accepted.
John Cena could barely contain the half-smirk, half-smile that wiggled across his face during Raw. Earlier tonight, he had
suggested everyone – our fans and his WrestleMania XXIV foes Triple H and WWE Champion Randy Orton – would be satisfied
after he was in charge during week one of the Triple Threat Takeover of Raw. Well, things did not go exactly as Cena
probably would have liked. By night’s end, he gave Triple H a painful receipt for a Pedigree The Game had given him two
weeks ago, but he was flattened by an RKO from Orton. The Legend Killer stood tall, cradling his WWE Championship and
surveying his fallen foes. It appeared the WWE Champion had momentum on his side with WrestleMania less than a month
away. For Orton, the scene reeked of déjà vu. Just last week, he could barely contain the quizzical look and muted
disbelief in his eyes when The Game and Cena faced off during a WrestleMania Photo-Op on Raw and appeared to forget –
albeit briefly – that he was there. And the self-proclaimed “One-Man Dynasty” is not one to be ignored. He made them pay
and left them facedown with a pair of RKOs. His message last week and tonight was the same: Don’t ever forget about me. I
am the WWE Champion. You better focus on me. I’m WWE Champion now, and will still be the champion after WrestleMania.
Meanwhile, Cena came into tonight’s Raw with scores to settle. Two weeks ago, Triple H sent a message to him with a
Pedigree after the former “Champ” earned his place in the main event at WrestleMania. Then last week, in addition to
withstanding the RKO, Cena was flattened by an opportunistic Mr. Kennedy and his Mic Check. It was clear tonight that Cena
had had enough. And Raw GM William Regal, ever mindful of the explosive situation among the three Superstars headlining
WrestleMania, decided to make them in charge of each other’s fates over the next three weeks in a Triple Threat Takeover.
And Cena used his random selection as the man in charge to his advantage. However, the former WWE Champion didn’t just
force The Game and the Legend Killer to have all the fun. He decided to face Kennedy and attempt to shut the Green Bay,
Wis., native’s loud mouth. Mr. Kennedy pushed Cena to the limit and showed him why he is one of WWE’s brightest rising
stars. But Cena ultimately humbled the Money in the Bank Ladder Match favorite and made him tap to the STFU. But that was
just part one of Cena’s mission tonight. He watched closely from the commentary table at ringside as longtime rivals – and
former Evolution teammates – Triple H and Orton tore into each other. There is no love lost among these three Superstars.
The glares that were shared among the three told the story of their rivalry and mutual dislike for each other. They have
all worn the WWE Championship. Orton desperately wants to hold onto the gold while Cena and The Game want
sports-entertainment’s Holy Grail back around their waists. They all have points to prove on The Grandest Stage of Them
all. Neither one of them will feel complete if they don’t leave WrestleMania XXIV with the WWE Championship. If Triple H
and Orton’s war tonight was any indication, the Triple Threat Match for the WWE Title at WrestleMania will be an epic
struggle. When Orton tried to run, Cena intervened, but The Game bumped the Legend Killer into “The Champ.” (Was it
intentional or accidental?) An enraged Cena couldn’t contain himself and charged Triple H and FU’ed him. But Orton denied
him any true satisfaction. As Orton looked around, he seemed to say, “FU, Triple H. FU, John Cena. If you want some, come
get some, because I’m keeping my title at WrestleMania.” Things may not get any easier for two of these Superstars next
week. Their fates will be in the hands of either The Cerebral Assassin or the Legend Killer next week on Raw. And payback
may prove to be a b@#ch for someone.
MATCHES:
- MIXED MARTIAL ARTS EXHIBITION MATCH -
The Big Show
defeated
Brandon "The Thrill" Hill
Ric Flair & Shawn Michaels
defeated
Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch
Umaga defeated Super Crazy
John Cena defeated Mr. Kennedy
- MONEY IN THE BANK QUALIFYING MATCH -
Carlito defeated Cody Rhodes
Triple H defeated Randy Orton
via a disqualification
Air Time: 2:03:54
Run Time: 1:47:22
RAW
# 772
3-10-08 LIVE
Bradley Center
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
After six months, seven days and countless Swanton Bombs, Jeff Hardy’s high-flying reign as Intercontinental Champion has
finally been grounded. In a title match at the Bradley Center, the “Rainbow-haired Warrior” found himself dragged back
down to earth by the resolute hands of Chris Jericho. Ever since his return to competition from a two-year absence last
November, Y2J has been anxious to win some gold. After tackling the challenge of the self-proclaimed “wrestling god,” JBL,
Jericho refocused his efforts, determined to recapture that which he’d held many times before, the Intercontinental
Championship. While Hardy had been on an enviable winning streak for months, his lion-hearted rival would not be rebuffed.
The pair swapped blows, ascending the ropes and taking to the air throughout the match. In the end, however, the
determination fixed on Y2J’s face proved too overwhelming to surmount. Jericho’s victory will likely reverberate far
beyond the Bradley Center, as the new Intercontinental Champion recaptures not only his coveted gold, but also seizes the
momentum leading up to this year’s Money in the Bank Match at WrestleMania XXIV.
When Ric Flair called out his friend and WrestleMania opponent Shawn Michaels, the rhetoric between the two became heated
at times, but the mutual respect shone through. So close is their bond that HBK announced he’ll be at SmackDown this
Friday to back up the “Nature Boy” in his 3-on-1 Handicap Steel Cage Match against Edge, Curt Hawkins and Zack Ryder.
In a rematch of their chilling Casket Match at WrestleMania 22, Undertaker and Mark Henry rammed heads again. As might be
expected, The Deadman’s familiarity with the afterlife proved invaluable, as he once again laid waste to the World’s
Strongest Man.
Finlay was prepared to battle Mr. Kennedy in a match pitting two former Money in the Bank participants against each other.
Before the match, though, JBL did his best to rile the Irishman, who in turn was disqualified for rapping his shillelagh
against the loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis., in order to send a vicious message back to JBL. These two will have one ugly
meeting of the minds at WrestleMania XXIV during their Belfast Brawl.
In a flashback to 1985’s WrestleMania I, Barry Windham & Mike Rotunda, better known as U.S. Express, were slated to tackle
the menace of Nikolai Volkoff & Iron Sheik. Before the match, however, the tag teams discovered a common threat when a
shrieking Jillian Hall attempted to croon the U.S. Express’ former entrance song, “Born in the USA.” Rather than endure
the Diva’s caterwauling, Rotunda silenced the Diva with an airplane spin.
With Randy Orton in charge of the Triple Threat Takeover this week, the current WWE Champion arranged a match between
Triple H and The Game’s WrestleMania XV opponent, Kane. The two towering figures rumbled throughout the ring before Triple
H pinned Kane’s shoulders to the mat and stared down Orton as he watched from the wings.
It was a beauty of a battle pitting Maria against Melina, each accompanied by their respective BunnyMania tag team
partners, Candice Michelle and Beth Phoenix. The Playboy cover girl held her own until her jealous beau Santino Marella
showed up ringside and tore in half her Playboy cover. The diversion allowed Melina to take advantage and roll up her
stunning adversary.
Floyd “Money” Mayweather got a potential taste of WrestleMania XXIV at Monday’s official weigh-in – and he didn’t like it
one bit. In fact, it was painful as Big Show appeared to injure him during their official weigh-in weeks before their
showdown at WrestleMania XXIV. And unfortunately for the WBC welterweight champion, however, Big Show may have given his
palate a dose of a new, unfamiliar sensation – that of defeat – and how it could taste in a few weeks. Even without a
weigh-in, anyone can plainly see that Big Show vs. Mayweather is a bit of a mismatch. “The World’s Largest Athlete” is
literally twice the size of “Money,” who despite winning boxing titles in five weight classes has never faced anyone close
to the size of Big Show – who is three inches taller and more than 100 pounds heavier than the largest man to ever wear
one of boxing’s heavyweight crowns. On Raw, our fans found out the exact discrepancy: The 7-foot-4 Big Show weighed in at
441 pounds, 282 more than the 5-foot-8 boxing champion. That wasn’t the only advantage he enjoyed, either; to counter
Mayweather’s posse, the former WWE Champion brought out his own collection of WWE Superstars to prove a point to
Mayweather. “I told you last week that no one in the locker room likes you, and when they heard there would be a weigh-in
tonight, they had to come down and see the $20 million man,” Show said. “Maybe you can take some of that money and give it
to the crowd, so they won’t hate you, or to these guys here so they’ll continue to pretend to be your friends.” Big Show
then moved onto a more serious matter, namely his promise to end Mayweather’s career at WrestleMania XXIV. “$20 million …
is the risk really worth it?” Show asked. “There are only two scenarios. One, I decide to take pity on you, just embarrass
you and you live to fight another day. Or, if you continue to disrespect me, I will guarantee that you never box again. So
it’s up to you. What do you say, you little runt?” Not one to back down from any challenge, Mayweather responded in kind,
pulling out a wad of cash to flash in front of the mammoth. “You’re right, I am the $20 million man,” Mayweather chimed.
“I respect what you have done in WWE, but I don’t respect you as a human being. It’s possible you could hurt me, but you
must be able to catch me first.” “Money” then tossed some of his own at the feet of Big Show before continuing.
“WrestleMania XXIV, the biggest WrestleMania ever. At No Way Out, I broke your nose; at WrestleMania XXIV, I will break
your jaw.” With that, Mayweather made it rain once again … and that’s when things went from green to red for the boxing
champion. The mammoth grabbed “Money,” scooping him up and tossing him into a group of WWE Superstars on the arena floor.
Shane McMahon and security had to step in to separate Mayweather’s posse and the Superstars, but as they did, a bigger
concern arose: The Greatest Fighter in the World slinked away clutching his right elbow, appearing to have suffered a
possible injury. The extent of the possible injury is unknown, as "Money" and his camp quickly left the Bradley Center
before he could be evaluated. Floyd Mayweather is a six-time boxing world champion who carries a professional record of
39-0 with 25 KOs. But inside a WWE ring, neither “Money” nor some of the legends he has defeated – not Arturo Gatti, nor
Oscar de la Hoya or most recent victim Ricky Hatton – hold a candle to the five-time wrestling World Champion. But this
isn’t boxing, and it sure as hell isn’t Dancing With The Stars; this is sports-entertainment, and he will have to step
onto its grandest stage against the massive Big Show. Mayweather's incredible hand speed is one of his greatest assets, so
what would it mean if he has to go into WrestleMania nursing an arm injury? By the looks of Raw, Big Show is serious about
his claims to destroy Mayweather. If he’s not careful, “Money” will find out the hard way just how much medical care his
$20 million payday will buy. Who knows, he may have already begun to do so.
Money in the Bank opponents last year at WrestleMania, Edge and CM Punk revisited their rivalry in a non-title match.
Perhaps trying to send Ric Flair and his WrestleMania opponent Undertaker a message, the current World Heavyweight
Champion edged past Punk for the three-count.
Raw General Manager William Regal wanted to make a statement about the Battle for Brand Supremacy that will take place at
this year’s WrestleMania. He brought Raw’s representative, Umaga, to the ring. But SmackDown representative, Batista,
interrupted the festivities. The two went at it before Batista was able to spear the Samoan Bulldozer out of the ring.
It’s highly unlikely, though, that Batista has heard the last of Umaga.
To Randy Orton’s dismay, it looks like John Cena and Triple H have learned their lessons from the past two weeks very well
and have their eyes focused on the WWE Champion as their Triple Threat Match at WrestleMania approaches. When he was
chosen to be in charge of Monday night’s Raw as part of a Triple Threat Takeover, Orton may have believed that the
WrestleMania Rewind-themed night may have been both a harbinger of things to come and an evening of déjà vu for Cena and
The Game. For the past two weeks, the Legend Killer took advantage of both his foes when they took their eyes off him and
at times seemed more preoccupied with each other. The end result? Orton left both the former “Champ” and The King of Kings
in a heap, courtesy of lightning-quick precision RKOs. The Legend Killer’s message: If you dare take your eyes off me, I
will turn your lights out at WrestleMania and leave Orlando, Fla., with my WWE Title. Orton saw his position of power
Monday night as an opportunity to have other Superstars do his dirty work for him and continue to weaken his two
WrestleMania XXIV challengers. In a pair of WrestleMania rematches, he pitted Triple H against old nemesis Kane and Cena
against Shawn Michaels, his challenger last year for the WWE Championship. The self-proclaimed “One-Man Dynasty” preyed on
old rivalries to make The Game and Cena’s challenges even more intense. Like everyone else, Orton was aware of Kane’s
sadistic tendencies and reminded the Big Red Machine how Triple H was responsible for forcing him to unmask several years
ago. As expected, the encounter between the The King of Kings and Kane was physical, hard-hitting and brutal at times. And
Randy Orton didn't help matters by coming down to ringside to get a closer view and distract Triple H. However, The Game
managed to prevail and burn a hole into Orton, showing the WWE Champion that he had his game face and focus as
WrestleMania approaches. Distraction seemed to be Orton’s MO for the night. He couldn’t resist inserting himself when Cena
and HBK squared off and renewed their rivalry later that night. However, his plans backfired when he tried to flatten Cena
with an RKO on a chair. West Newbury, Mass.’ favorite son, tired of feeling headaches from RKOs the last few weeks, left
Orton semi-conscious with an FU. But perhaps an FU-inspired sore back is the least of Orton’s worries. And Cena has a
reason to be worried, too. The next move in this game of chess and one-upmanship belongs to Triple H, who will be in
charge of Raw next week as part of the Triple Threat Takeover. The Cerebral Assassin hasn’t forgotten about the FUs and
RKOs he has withstood these past few weeks, and he looks like he wants to have some fun at Orton and Cena’s expense.
Triple H has ordered Orton and Cena to team up next week and face the entire Raw roster. But what the hell does that mean?
It looks like the game is getting a lot more interesting as WrestleMania draws near.
MATCHES:
- WRESTLEMANIA REMATCH -
The Undertaker defeated Mark Henry
Mr. Kennedy defeated Fit Finlay
via a disqualification
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Chris Jericho defeated Jeff Hardy
becoming new Intercontinental champion
- WRESTLEMANIA REMATCH -
"The U.S. Express"
Barry Windham & Mike Rotundo
vs
Nikolai Volkoff & Iron Sheik
never got underway
Triple H defeated Kane
- WRESTLEMANIA PREMATCH -
Melina defeated Maria
- NON TITLE -
Edge defeated C.M. Punk
- WRESTLEMANIA REMATCH -
Shawn Michaels defeated John Cena
via a disqualification
Air Time: 3:08:00
Run Time: 2:21:06
RAW
# 773
3-17-08 LIVE
Cajundome
Lafayette, Louisiana
A proud Irishman, Mr. McMahon thought he would have the luck of his ancestors firmly behind him on St. Patrick’s Day when
he challenged Ric Flair to a Career Threatening Street Fight. Unfortunately for the Chairman, it looked as if his ancestors
may have been too busy celebrating to lend a hand. Mr. McMahon, who had issued a win-or-retire ultimatum to Flair back in
November, came up short against his longtime rival Monday night. With his latest victory, the 16-time World Champion has
now leapt seven hurdles tossed in his path, including Randy Orton, Umaga, Triple H, William Regal, MVP and Mr. Kennedy,
and kept his career alive. His path to a WrestleMania showdown with his friend, the incomparable Shawn Michaels, seems
clear. It wasn’t easy, though. During the battle, Mr. McMahon used a battery of weapons to bloody the “Nature Boy”: a
garbage can, kendo stick and a metal folding chair. Just when it appeared the Chairman would emerge victorious, HBK
distracted the ref before the three-count. And in the end, Flair prevailed after nailing the Chairman in the blarney
stones and crashing down on him and putting him through a table.
Big Show stopped by Chris Jericho’s Highlight Reel for a chat when things quickly turned ugly. Show challenged the
Intercontinental Champion to a title match after equating him with his WrestleMania foe, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. During
their match, The World’s Largest Athlete made a statement by overpowering the former Undisputed WWE Champion. An enraged
Jericho then got disqualified when he smacked Show across the face with his title gold. However, the giant sent Mayweather
a message loud and clear by knocking out Y2J with one punch.
In a sneak peek of the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania, two of the seven qualifiers, CM Punk and Carlito,
offered a glimpse of the fireworks that are sure to ensue. After several near-pinfalls, the Straightedge Superstar finally
took out Carlito to capture a slice of momentum heading into Orlando, Florida.
Umaga showed why GM William Regal chose him to represent Raw during WrestleMania’s Battle of Brand Supremacy against
SmackDown’s representative, Batista. The Samoan Bulldozer showed his dominance by plowing through Paul London & Brian
Kendrick after Kendrick seemingly abandoned his partner.
Once again, JBL showed why he’s not exactly the most respected man on the roster. In an attempt to send a message to his
WrestleMania Belfast Brawl foe Finlay, the “wrestling god” chose as an alternate the “next toughest Irishman” on the
roster, ECW’s poor Colin Delaney, whom JBL proceeded to abuse.
Less than two weeks before their WrestleMania match, BunnyMania partners Maria & Candice Michelle faced off against
Jillian Hall & Victoria. As Candice sealed the win for her team, a jealous Santino Marella fumed at ringside. So enraged
about Maria’s Playboy cover was the Italian that he took a cheap shot at Jerry “The King” Lawler before scampering away.
Whether they liked it or not, WWE Champion Randy Orton & John Cena had to work together and play Triple H’s game. And as
they both found out Monday night on Raw, when you play The Game, you almost always lose. Triple H was in charge of the
third and final installment of the Triple Threat Takeover this week on Raw, and he seemed to take great pleasure in making
his two WrestleMania XXIV opponents squirm, knowing that they had to work together and face the entire Raw roster. What
did that mean? It meant exactly what The Cerebral Assassin said: Cena and Orton, two mortal enemies, had to find a way to
co-exist while they fought for their lives against everyone on the Raw roster. And Cena and Orton had to cooperate; they
could not walk out on each other. Under Triple H's mandate, if Cena walked out on Orton, he would lose his spot in the
main event at WrestleMania. If Orton walked out, he would then be stripped of the WWE Title and be left on the outside
looking in as The Game and Cena squared off for the championship on The Grandest Stage of Them All. In the weeks leading
up to their showdown at WrestleMania XXIV over the WWE Championship, these three warriors have seemingly done everything
to gain an advantage. They have tried to wear each other down directly, with sniper-like attacks through Pedigrees, RKOs
and FUs. They have tried to weaken each other indirectly via challenging matchups – Orton vs. Triple H, as arranged by
Cena, and The Game vs. Kane and Cena vs. Shawn Michaels, as arranged by Orton, in weeks past. However, Triple H’s plan
Monday night seemed to be the most ingenious of all: Why not have his opponents face the entire Raw roster? The 11-time
World Champion demonstrated why he is called The Cerebral Assassin and that he is deadly serious about winning
sports-entertainment’s most coveted prize at WrestleMania XXIV. Cena and Orton also proved they were deadly serious.
Against all odds, Cena and the Legend Killer fought off the seemingly endless assembly line of warriors from the Raw
locker room. Seventeen Superstars that included the mighty Umaga and JBL attempted to take out Cena and Orton. But
one-by-one, Superstars fell to FUs, STFUs and RKOs. “The Champ” and the self-proclaimed “One-Man Dynasty” showed why they
are the crème de la crème of WWE and vying for sports-entertainment’s Holy Grail. It was amazing how well Cena and Orton
worked together when they had to. However, the odds eventually caught up to them. The cavalcade of Superstars swarmed Cena
& Orton, leaving them laying - and vulnerable to Triple H. The Game also showed the world that he isn’t afraid to prove a
point himself. Just when Cena and Orton, with sweat dripping off their brows and their chests heaving with exhaustion,
thought their storm had subsided, Triple H’s trademark “It’s All About The Game” warbled throughout the Cajundome. Our
fans roared as they wondered how Cena and Orton would survive the storm brought on by The Game. Throughout his career, The
King of Kings has shown that he wins as many battles with his mind as his fists. Triple H has said that his life depends
on winning the WWE Championship at WrestleMania on March 30 in Orlando, Fla. – and Monday night he showed that he will do
anything to hold the gold for a 12th time. Slowly, Triple H lifted up Cena and Orton and sent them crashing face down with
Pedigrees. Then he motioned for the WWE Championship. As he gazed down at the gold, he then looked up at the WrestleMania
XXIV banner in the rafters and pointed. Without uttering one word, The Game made a vow - to take back his title at
WrestleMania. Was this a harbinger of things to come in less than two weeks at WrestleMania XXIV? One thing is certain:
The King of Kings is coming for his throne. Are Cena and Orton prepared to bow down?
MATCHES:
C.M. Punk defeated Carlito
- 2 ON 1 HANDICAP MATCH -
Umaga
defeated
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
J.B.L. defeated Colin Delaney
- CAREER THREATENING STREET FIGHT -
Ric Flair defeated Mr. McMahon
Candice Michelle & Maria
defeated
Jillian Hall & Victoria
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Big Show defeated Chris Jericho
via a disqualification with Jericho retaining the title
- 17 ON 1 HANDICAP MATCH -
John Cena & Randy Orton
defeated
The Entire Raw Roster
via a disqualification
Air Time: 2:06:49
Run Time: 1:52:19
RAW
# 774
3-24-08 LIVE
Colonial Center
Columbia, South Carolina
United States Champion Montel Vontavious Porter and Carlito will be enemies this Sunday in the Money in the Bank Ladder
Match, as a championship contract hangs above them at WrestleMania. But for one night at the Colonial Center, the
“Franchise Playa” and the cool customer worked like a well-oiled machine, defeating Intercontinental Champion Chris
Jericho & former ECW Champion CM Punk in a Money in the Bank preview on Raw. In the end, it was a mistake by Y2J that cost
his team the match. As Punk and MVP fought, the U.S. Champ ducked Jericho’s enzuiguri attempt and it caught Punk’s chin,
stunning the Straightedge Superstar. Carlito pulled the Intercontinental Champ from the ring, allowing the SmackDown
Superstar to roll up Punk for the pinfall. As the foursome stepped from the ring, they knew that the pinfall wouldn’t
matter this Sunday. Only the man that pulls the prized Money in the Bank briefcase from its 20-foot-high perch at the
Citrus Bowl will make his championship dreams become reality.
At home in “Flair Country,” Ric Flair told the Colonial Center crowd that he had lost respect for his friend and
WrestleMania opponent, Shawn Michaels – who made a crucial save in Flair’s match against Mr. McMahon last week. Flair
blasted HBK for having no confidence in him against the Chairman. The Showstopper came to the ring, and swore he was doing
what he thought Flair would have done in the same circumstance. He again promised to leave everything in the ring against
the “Nature Boy,” and Flair reiterated that he expected nothing less from “Mr. WrestleMania.” He showed HBK his NWA World
Championship Title that he won in 1981, and said he wanted Michaels to bring out the best in him for one more night. As
HBK turned to leave, he reminded Flair of the story of “Old Yeller” and how a family had to put their cherished dog out of
its misery when it was sick. HBK promised to dispatch the “Nature Boy’s” career in a similar manner, which enraged Flair
enough to slap The Showstopper twice in the face. Michaels left the angry “Nature Boy” fuming in the ring.
In a preview of the 24-man Battle Royal at WrestleMania, The Great Khali established himself as the odds-on favorite to
earn an ECW Championship opportunity by defeating one-half of the World Tag Team Champions, Hardcore Holly. In a match
famous for its “everyone for themselves” attitude, it’ll likely take a group effort to topple the Punjabi giant in the
Citrus Bowl.
A one-on-one Divas contest between Maria and Melina became an Intergender Tag Team Match as Ashley, Beth Phoenix, Santino
Marella and Jerry “The King” Lawler got involved in the proceedings. With intergender rules allowing men to wrestle women,
Marella frequently found himself grappling in the ring with his former girlfriend and current Playboy cover girl. But as
Maria sent Santino to the outside, Melina and The Glamazon swept out Maria’s legs with a crushing chop block from behind.
Santino rolled back into the ring and covered his former love interest for the 1-2-3. After the match, it was learned that
Ashley will replace the injured Candice Michelle in the BunnyMania Match at WrestleMania, as she and Maria will face Beth
Phoenix and Melina.
With just six days left before WrestleMania XXIV explodes within the confines of the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla.,
eight combustible Superstars helped to light the fuse Monday at Columbia's Colonial Center with a WrestleMania Showcase:
an Eight-Man Tag Team Match. The commotion kicked off early when John Cena, Big Show, JBL and even Cena’s Triple Threat
opponents Triple H and Randy Orton, all crowded the ring – with each boasting it would be he who would emerge victorious
in their respective matches. William Regal had heard enough. All the verbal sparring prompted the Raw General Manager to
announce that the five men would be joined by Umaga, Shawn Michaels and Ric Flair in an Eight-Man No Disqualifications Tag
Team Match pitting Orton, Big Show, JBL & the Samoan Bulldozer against Triple H, John Cena, HBK and the "Nature Boy." Such
a fiery combination could hardly be contained. The blaze was struck early in the WrestleMania Showcase when JBL's Belfast
Brawl challenger, Finlay, charged down the entrance ramp and smacked the self-proclaimed "wrestling god" in the mid-section
with a shillelagh before the two hit the ground rolling. To toss more fuel onto the frenzied flames, Umaga’s Battle for
Brand Supremacy challenger, Batista, made a surprise appearance, charging the ring and laying his WrestleMania opponent on
his back with a fierce spear. Meanwhile, Big Show stood like a lone redwood in a forest of felled giants after punishing
the Triple Threat trio of John Cena, Triple H and even his tag partner, Randy Orton. The World's Largest Athlete then left
the ring after the damage was done. Afterward, Flair went a long way to prove himself to his close friend and WrestleMania
opponent, HBK. He tackled the challenge of the current WWE Champion, snapping Orton into a Figure-Four Leglock and forcing
him to submit for the win, possibly the 16-time World Champion’s last on Raw. Monday night’s five-alarm free-for-all may
not have settled anything definitively, but it certainly managed to fan the flames of animosity already raging in the days
leading up to The Granddaddy of ‘em All, WrestleMania XXIV.
MATCHES:
United States Champion M.V.P. & Carlito
defeated
Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho & C.M. Punk
The Great Khali defeated Hardcore Holly
- SIX PERSON INTERGENDER TAG TEAM MATCH -
Santino Marella, Melina & Beth Phoenix
defeated
Jerry “The King” Lawler, Maria & Ashley
- EIGHT MAN NO DISQUALIFICATION WRESTLEMANIA SHOWCASE TAG TEAM MATCH -
Ric Flair, Shawn Michaels, Triple H & John Cena
defeated
Umaga, John “Bradshaw” Layfield, The Big Show & Randy Orton
Air Time: 2:04:09
Run Time: 1:50:04
RAW
# 775
3-31-08 LIVE
Amway Arena
Orlando, Florida
CM Punk is learning that being “Mr. Money in the Bank” has its privileges. But one of its biggest drawbacks is that other
Superstars want to use you as a stepping stone and test of their mettle. On Raw, the newest Money in the Bank winner went
head-to-head with one of his opponents from the night before – Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho. And Y2J was out to
prove that Punk’s victory over him and five other Superstars was a fluke. During the fast-paced match, Y2J countered Punk’s
Go To Sleep, then pulled the Straightedge Superstar in close and hit the Codebreaker to score the pinfall. Jericho got the
redemption he wanted, but Punk had the satisfaction that he took the Intercontinental Champion to the limit – proving when
the time comes to cash in the Money in the Bank briefcase, he’ll be a threat to any champions’ gold.
With the WWE Championship shining on his shoulder, Randy Orton crowed about defeating both Triple H and John Cena at
WrestleMania, declaring his reign as champion the “Age of Orton.” But John “Bradshaw” Layfield had other ideas, telling
the third-generation Superstar he deserved a title match as a reward for proving that he was the toughest Superstar on Raw
in his Belfast Brawl victory 24 hours earlier. As Orton yelled at the departing self-made millionaire, Matt Hardy slipped
into the ring and attacked the champion from behind. The man who Orton punted in the head months ago, lengthening his
recovery from a ruptured appendix, wanted revenge on the Legend Killer. Hardy later demanded a match with Orton – a
request granted by General Manager William Regal. Hardy had Orton on the ropes, hitting the Twist of Fate on the WWE
Champion on the floor. But instead of leaving Orton outside the ring and winning by countout, Hardy rolled him back into
the ring, where the cunning champion used his last ounce of strength to shock Hardy with an RKO and cover him for the
pinfall victory. As Orton caught his breath in the locker room, JBL approached the champion, picked up the WWE Title for a
long look, and dropped it back in the champ’s lap – another reminder that the millionaire was gunning for Raw’s top
Superstar and his gold.
Maria begged her former boyfriend, Santino Marella, to call off their Anything Goes Match on Raw. But her former beau
refused, saying he thought Divas belonged in the kitchen, not in the ring. Bad idea, buddy! A cadre of Divas – Ashley,
Victoria, Mickie James, Jillian, Michelle McCool, Kelly Kelly and Melina – all attacked Santino during the match, aiding
Maria. They slammed him to the mat and held him down, allowing Maria to crush Marella’s “grapefruits” with a booming head
butt. She rolled up the wounded Italian for an easy 1-2-3 as the Divas celebrated her victory.
Sporting a bruised jaw from Floyd “Money” Mayweather’s loaded punch at WrestleMania, the Big Show said that he was ready
to go back to his old championship ways, dominating the WWE as the Largest Athlete in the World. But the Great Khali begged
to differ. The Punjabi Giant interrupted Big Show, and got in the giant’s face. Khali yelled at Show in his Punjab
dialect, but when the 441-pounder threatened to escalate the confrontation by raising his fists, Khali chose to save it
for another day.
Even the best of friends have disagreements. Paul London and Brian Kendrick seem to have patched up their recent problems,
just in time to topple the World Tag Team Champions, Cody Rhodes & Hardcore Holly, on Raw. In the non-title match,
Kendrick was able to roll up a distracted Rhodes and bridge over for the winning pinfall. The two quick-as-a-hiccup high
flyers celebrated after the match, as they served notice to the tag-team ranks that the former World and WWE Tag Team
Champions are mended, and on the rise.
While one tag team patched up their differences, another popular team of Superstars returned to Raw, challenging the
former World Tag Team Champions. JTG & Shad – Cryme Tyme – entered the Amway Arena to an electric welcome for their
matchup with Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch, who saw their hats sold in an impromptu ringside auction the last time they met.
The boys from Brooklyn capitalized on a Murdoch mistake, allowing JTG to roll him up for a surprising pinfall victory.
RIC FLAIR SAYS GOOD-BYE
For 36 years, Ric Flair made people feel good. He was, and remains, the consummate showman – a professional in the world
of sports-entertainment that gave everything of himself to his fans and friends, both inside and outside of the ring. On
Raw Monday night, those fans and friends gave a little back. As the “Nature Boy” offered his farewell address to the
capacity crowd at the Amway Arena and gave his sincere thanks for their support over the course of his career, he was
overwhelmed by applause from the teary audience. "I want to thank you all for the memories," Flair said, "I want to thank
you for the support and most of all, thank you for making me who I am today." The 16-time World Champion and 2008 WWE Hall
of Fame inductee welled-up and basked in the admiration of fans, but that wasn't the end of his night. Triple H's entrance
theme hit the air, and The Game began a parade of well-wishers who emerged to offer bear hugs and words of encouragement.
Among the well-wishers were those who Flair had taken under his wing and mentored over the years, including Triple H,
Batista, John Cena, Chris Jericho and Edge, and contemporaries such as the legendary Harley Race, Ricky “The Dragon”
Steamboat, Greg Valentine and Dean Malenko. And of course, it wouldn’t have been complete without an appearance by the
legendary Four Horsemen - Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, Barry Windham and JJ Dillon - and Flair's family, including his
wife, daughter and two sons. The road to retirement for Flair had taken many detours over the past six months, but the
pavement ran out at WrestleMania XXIV when, in an epic match, Flair’s show was finally stopped in a Career Threatening
Match against his close friend Shawn Michaels – a friend who also, albeit reluctantly and still tense with emotion from
his own speech earlier in the night – came to the ring to honor Flair during his farewell ceremony. While HBK might have
had reservations about appearing after ending his friend’s career, all was forgiven as Flair enveloped The Showstopper in
his arms. It was a fitting ending to an emotion-filled evening. An evening that witnessed the long goodbye of a man who
gave everything he had to the sport he so loved, an original who will never be duplicated, a Hall of Fame Champion who
will never be replicated. Goodbye and thank you to the one, the only, Ric Flair.
MATCHES:
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
defeated
Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
defeated
World Tag Team Champions
Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Intercontinental Champion
Chris Jericho
defeated
C.M. Punk
- NON TITLE MATCH -
WWE Champion Randy Orton
defeated
Matt Hardy
- ANYTHING GOES MATCH -
Maria
defeated
Santino Marella
Air Time: 2:10:14
Run Time: 1:49:07
RAW
# 776
4-7-08 LIVE
Times Union Center
Albany, New York
After an emotional Raw last week which saw a farewell to Ric Flair, Shawn Michaels and Batista were guests on
Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho’s Highlight Reel on Raw, just days after the two Superstars had a volatile
exchange on SmackDown. Both HBK and The Animal once again stood by their respective arguments in regards to Ric Flair’s
retirement – courtesy of Michaels – but the issue between the two has boiled over and will officially explode at
Backlash. Live on pay-per-view on April 27, Batista and Shawn Michaels will go one-on-one, with The Animal looking for
retribution after HBK ended his mentor’s career at WrestleMania XXIV. But as Michaels told our fans and Batista on the
Highlight Reel, “I did what anyone would have done, even you Batista.” When Michaels pressed Batista to do something about
his anger over the “Nature Boy’s” retirement, The Animal responded, “I already did.”
As things heat up between those former champions, the Raw tag team division is sweltering with both the champions and the
hungry challengers to the gold. After suffering embarrassment last week in defeat to ex-girlfriend Maria, Santino Marella
re-formed his partnership with Carlito on Raw to take on World Tag Team Champions, Cody Rhodes & Hardcore Holly. Making a
strong statement of their own, Carlito & Santino defeated the champions in a non-title match when Marella pinned Cody
Rhodes.
Paul London & Brian Kendrick have been on a roll of their own as of late, piling up the victories while aiming to once
again reach the top of the tag division. On Raw, the duo defeated Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch using their high-flying
style of offense when Kendrick pulled a pin out of nowhere on Murdoch. After the loss, Cade showed his growing frustration
in the ring, glaring at his longtime partner, Murdoch.
Following their tag team win last week, Cryme Tyme was on Raw again, this time for their WrestleMania clearance sale. “If
you desire it, we’ll acquire it,” is the new motto of JTG & Shad, and the duo lived up to that motto … kind of.
After dominating in the BunnyMania Match at WrestleMania, Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix showed Maria why the gold is
firmly in The Glamazon’s grasp. Maria, who continues to show her own improvements in the ring, fell victim to the power of
Phoenix, whose stock continues to rise on Raw – turning away every challenger she has faced to hold on to her title.
Ashley teamed with Mickie James to face the team of Melina & Jillian on Monday night, and the beautiful duo of Ashley &
Mickie James earned the victory when the former Women’s Champion, James, pinned Melina. Will the win help catapult Mickie
James back into the hunt for the Women’s Championship?
Umaga competed for the first time since his loss to Batista at WrestleMania XXIV, and the Samoan Bulldozer returned to Raw
more destructive than ever. Showing the intensity that has made him one of the most feared competitors in WWE, Umaga tore
Val Venis apart in the ring before destroying him with the Samoan Spike.
Anyone who thought that the pedal-to-the-metal battle for the WWE Championship would slow down after WrestleMania, prepare
to buckle up for a Fatal Four Way. The first hairpin turn sprang up on Monday night when Raw General Manager William Regal
announced that the title match at Backlash, in less than three weeks, would pit reigning champion Randy Orton against media
maven, JBL. As if that weren’t enough to rev up fans, Triple H interrupted Regal to make the case that it should be he
battling for the title. While the GM did not oblige The Game, he did offer him a chance — arranging a Handicap Match
between Triple H and Orton & JBL. Were Triple H to prevail, he would earn his way into a Triple Threat Title Match at
Backlash. Never the best of friends, Orton and JBL refused to work together to bring down The Game. As a result, Triple H
burned through the discontented duo to secure a spot in the title match at Backlash. Before The Cerebral Assassin could
rejoice, however, his other WrestleMania opponent emerged to put the brakes on his celebration. John Cena interrupted to
argue that he, too, deserved an opportunity at the title. Despite the protestations of Orton, Regal offered Cena the same
chance that he offered Triple H. Only this time, were the leader of the Chain Gang to win his Handicap Match against
Triple H & JBL, the championship encounter at Backlash would now be a Fatal Four Way. Hoping to better his odds and
preserve the “Age of Orton,” the Legend Killer stood ringside and implored JBL to put Cena away, but the former WWE
Champion would not go quietly. He held on as tensions between JBL and Triple H mounted until finally the tag team partners
turned on one another. A panicked Orton tried in vain to corral the two back into the ring to face Cena. Rather than help,
however, Orton found himself on the receiving end of an errant JBL punch. As a result, the Legend Killer lost his cool and
leveled JBL with an RKO. Cena quickly took advantage and covered the media maven for the three-count. With Triple H and
Cena now joining Orton and JBL in a Fatal Four Way Match for the WWE Championship at Backlash, fans can be assured of one
thing: A bloody, brutal pileup is bound to take place before anyone has a chance to cross the finish line.
MATCHES:
Umaga defeated Val Venis
Mickie James & Ashley Masaro
defeated
Melina & Jillian Hall
Brian Kendrick & Paul London
defeated
Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch
- 2 ON 1 HANDICAP MATCH -
Triple H
defeated
J.B.L. & Randy Orton
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Carlito & Santino Marella
defeated
World Tag Team Champions
Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Women`s Champion
Beth Pheonix
defeated
Maria
- 2 ON 1 HANDICAP MATCH -
John "Steroidial" Cena
defeated
Triple H & J.B.L.
Air Time: 2:03:53
Run Time: 1:49:30
RAW
# 777
4-14-08 LIVE
02 Arena
London, England
Mickie James’ quest to regain the Women’s Championship has been a long road back to the top, but James proved all the
doubters wrong when she did the unthinkable, dethroning Beth Phoenix on Raw. While Phoenix showed the strength and power
that has made her an unbeatable force since winning the Women’s Championship, kicking out of the challenger’s high-flying
arsenal of offense, the resilient Mickie proved why she was once before – and is now again – the champion. As Phoenix had
James hoisted far above her head, Mickie reversed the hold and rolled-up The Glamazon to capture the gold. After the
victory, the new champion made her way up the ramp with tears of joy in her eyes, emotional over the unlikely win. The
celebration continued when fellow Divas Maria & Ashley joined the new Women’s Champion on the ramp, and Todd Grisham was
given a victory kiss by the exuberant Mickie.
Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho’s night began when he interrupted Shawn Michaels at the opening of Raw, as HBK
spoke about his Backlash opponent, Batista. Y2J berated Michaels, going so far as to call him a “phony,” but Jericho paid
for his words when he accused Michaels of setting up WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair’s retirement clause long ago. HBK heard
enough, and delivered Sweet Chin Music to Jericho, silencing his critic. Not to be outdone by HBK’s physical payback,
Jericho asked General Manager William Regal to let him participate in the Batista/Michaels confrontation at Backlash, and
Regal obliged, naming Y2J the guest referee for the showdown. But Y2J’s night wasn’t over, as he defended his gold moments
later against the ever-dangerous Umaga. Despite the Samoan Bulldozer’s best efforts, Jericho took advantage when the
heavyweight hit his head on the steel post, rolling up Umaga and using the ropes for leverage to secure the win and retain
his title.
The tag team of Santino Marella & Carlito became the No. 1 contenders to the World Tag Team Championship when they
defeated the red-hot tandem of Paul London & Brian Kendrick on Raw. After securing their opportunity to reach the top of
the tag team division, Santino & Carlito delivered bilingual warnings to the champions, Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes. “You
need three things to be World Tag Team Champions,” explained Santino, “strength, agility and international flavor –
something you do not have.” True “weeners” – as Santino explained to our fans in London – the duo now have their chance to
shine when they go for gold. Whether or not “Cantino” can prove that to be true remains to be seen, but the new No. 1
contenders hope to prove that they are more than just the flavor of the month in their hunt for tag gold.
Moments before taking on JTG one-on-one, Trevor Murdoch’s tag team partner Lance Cade tried to give a pep talk, encouraging
Murdoch by telling him he would go out to the ring and win after a few weeks of bad luck. Murdoch and Cade have had a
mounting frustration after weeks of difficult losses, including a tag team loss to Cryme Tyme last Monday. Despite
Murdoch’s best efforts, however, JTG reversed a flying body press to earn the victory. A shocked Murdoch stood in the
center of the ring after the loss, and an extremely disappointed Lance Cade approached his partner and gave him a look of
disapproval before patting him on the back and exiting the arena.
Superstar Paul Burchill returned to his home country of England on Raw when he faced off with Hacksaw Jim Duggan. Unlike
William Regal, however, the Englishman Burchill did not have his fellow countrymen’s support, yet still found a way to
win. Burchill defeated Duggan with a devastating maneuver that saw him slam the WWE legend face-first into the mat. With
the announcement that King of the Ring will take place next week on a special three-hour edition of Raw, could a young
up-and-comer like Burchill, find himself part of the tournament to crown WWE royalty?
When Raw hopped the pond to jolly ol’ England this week, it was JBL who decided to serve up an order of Bangers & Smash to
two of his three opponents in the upcoming Fatal Four Way WWE Championship Match at Backlash in a possible preview of how
their title battle might shake down. JBL, Triple H and Randy Orton each saw action in the squared circle (John Cena was
recuperating from his 2-on-1 Handicap Match the week before), with JBL battling The Game while Orton faced off against Raw
General Manager and loyal English subject, William Regal. Unfortunately for Regal, the London O2 Arena would prove to be
his Waterloo. Despite the home field advantage, the prodigal son simply could not withstand the onslaught of the reigning
WWE Champion. After punishing Orton’s neck with a series of slams, Regal was left lying in the ring like a mound of mushy
peas after suffering an RKO from the Legend Killer. Apparently, not content disposing of Regal, Orton also felt compelled
to meddle in the bout between Triple H and JBL. In an attempt at eliminating The Game from Backlash, the Legend Killer ran
in and nearly took off Triple H’s head. He administered an RKO before then teaming with JBL against The Game. As Orton was
set to punt Triple H’s noggin all the way to Scotland, however, JBL turned on him and laid out the WWE Champion with a
vicious Clothesline from Hell. If the night in England proved anything, it’s that trying to predict the behavior of your
Backlash opponents is surely a recipe for folly. In the immortal words of England’s Sir Winston Churchill, “It is a
mistake to look too far ahead. Only one link in the chain of destiny can be handled at a time.”
MATCHES:
- #1 CONTENDER`S MATCH FOR THE WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP -
Carlito & Santino Marella
defeated
Brian Kendrick & Paul London
" WOMEN`S CHAMPIONSHIP "
Mickie James
defeated
Beth Phoenix
becoming new women`s champion
J.T.G. defeated Trevor Murdoch
Randy Orton defeated William Regal
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Chris Jericho
defeated
Umaga
retaining the title
Paul Burchill
defeated
"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan
Triple H. vs J.B.L.
ended in a no contest
Air Time: 2:03:13
Run Time: 1:48:21
RAW
# 778
4-21-08 LIVE
Bi-Lo Center
Greenville, South Carolina
The night before Senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama face off in the Pennsylvania Democratic primary to determine
their party’s presidential nominee, the two faced off in the squared circle on Raw only to have Umaga crash the party.
“Whatcha gonna do when Hill-a-Mania brings real change to Washington and runs wild all over YOU?” asked Sen. Clinton,
accompanied by her husband, former President Bill Clinton. As Sen. Obama entered the ring, he asked the masses if they
could, “smell what Barack is cooking?” Once the bell rang, Sen. Clinton immediately went on the offensive, even lifting
Sen. Obama and slamming him to the canvas. Then, just as Obama seemed to be on the attack, former President Clinton yanked
his leg from outside the ring. As the two continued to battle for their party’s nomination, a spoiler candidate
interrupted the match: The Samoan Bulldozer. As WWE presented its version of the Dems, Umaga proved that he’s no fan of
politics as he plowed through each of the candidates, leaving them motionless on the mat. With his landslide beatdown,
don’t be surprised if the next bumper sticker you see reads, “Umaga ’08!”
All three Backlash Main Events were represented in a power-driven Eight-Man Tag Team Match pitting Triple H, John Cena and
The Brothers of Destruction (World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker and ECW Champion Kane) against Randy Orton, JBL, Edge
and Chavo Guerrero. With all the pent up anger ready to burst, fireworks seemed inevitable. The ECW Champion had hoisted
Guerrero for a chokeslam when, without warning, Edge darted between the ropes and speared the Big Red Machine for the
victory. At that point, the fuse was lit. Orton and JBL teamed up to lay out both Triple H and Cena. But before the two
could rejoice, however, Undertaker showed his dominance just days before his title defense against Edge by seizing both
Orton and JBL by the neck and leveling the pair with a chokeslam to remain the only man standing.
The war of words between Shawn Michaels and Batista continues to rage in the lead up to their match at Backlash. This
week, tensions escalated as they exchanged more heated words regarding HBK retiring Ric Flair at WrestleMania. Batista
told HBK that he would end their feud in the ring at Backlash. For his part, Michaels claimed that he will stop at nothing
to defeat The Animal. Before parting, the two shook hands with Batista offering up one of his intimidating glares. Those
hands will be used to different effect this Sunday as two of WWE’s biggest names look to end their personal issues inside
the ring.
To celebrate Mickie James’ emotional Women’s Title win last week, a host of Divas, including Maria, Ashley, Michelle
McCool, Cherry and Kelly Kelly, summoned the new champion to the ring. But all the merriment proved too much for Beth
Phoenix to bear. Accompanied by Melina, Jillian, Victoria, Layla and Natalya Neidhart, the former champion confronted her
adversaries and told them their celebration was a slap in the face. That’s when McCool demonstrated to The Glamazon what a
real slap in the face feels like. After that, all bets were off as the beauties turned beastly in a Diva free for all,
with WWE’s favorite femme fatales standing tall.
In a possible sneak peek at the World Tag Team Title Match, Carlito battled one-half of the tag team champions, Hardcore
Holly. With their respective partners — Santino Marella and Cody Rhodes — waiting ringside, Carlito and Holly clashed
until the Caribbean Bad Apple hit the Backstabber for the three-count. Afterward, the Italian Stallion mouthed off to
Rhodes until the young gun smacked him with the microphone and demanded respect. The International Superstars have
momentum on their side, but will it be enough?
The 2008 King of the Ring Tournament saw the rise to prominence of William Regal, who used his role as General Manager and
his patented Regal Stretch in three submission victories to set the path to the throne, ultimately defeating CM Punk to
take the crown on Raw and become King of all WWE. Regal had to get through Mr. Money in the Bank, Punk, in the finals of
the eight-man tournament – a match that saw the resilience of Punk up against the physically punishing style of the GM. CM
Punk was able to withstand the Englishman’s physical in-ring style in the finals for a short time, but the odds were too
much to overcome with a fairly fresh William Regal stealing the victory and the crown. Earlier, Regal’s first step on the
way to his royal crowning was the revelation that Hornswoggle would compete in the King of the Ring Tournament. After
quickly defeating the pint-sized Superstar, Regal’s path to the throne then continued on to his semifinal opponent, and
Hornswoggle’s father, Finlay. The Irishman hobbled into the semifinals after earning his spot with a physically pained
disqualification victory over The Great Khali in the opening round. The Punjabi warrior destroyed the left knee of Finlay
as the referee warned him to take things into the ring, orders that Khali ignored as he pummeled the Irishman. Finlay also
endured an attack by Regal after trying to protect Hornswoggle in the quarterfinals. The only thing that kept Khali from
continuing the assault was the arrival of Big Show – the Punjabi giant’s Backlash opponent – whose glares sent the
behemoth up the aisle. The damage was already done, however, and Regal zeroed in on Finlay’s ravaged knee prior to their
semifinal confrontation. While Regal was securing his spot in the finals with his General Manager power and cunning
maneuvers, the Straightedge Superstar was fighting his way through the prestigious tournament. Punk’s first round opponent,
Matt Hardy, hoped to earn the King of the Ring crown, but he would lose to runner-up CM Punk. In the next round, Punk
faced another Superstar looking for that dare-to-be-great moment in the semifinals in Intercontinental Champion Chris
Jericho. Y2J, who has held every accolade a Superstar could dream of in WWE except King of the Ring, hoped to inscribe his
name into WWE history books once again, but it was not his night. Though the Intercontinental Champion Y2J seized a huge
win over United States Champion MVP with his Walls of Jericho in the opening round, Jericho’s momentum came to a halt
against Mr. Money in the Bank. With wins over two top WWE Superstars – at 100 percent – CM Punk fought his way to the
finals, nearly taking home the King of the Ring crown to add to his Money in the Bank briefcase. But the ECW Superstar
couldn’t overcome the seemingly perfect plot of William Regal. And regardless of how Raw’s majestic man-in-charge got to
the crown, he did. Like it or not, the General Manager is the one wearing the Regal robes now, and the monarchy has never
been stronger.
MATCHES:
- KING OF THE RING FIRST ROUND MATCH -
Chris Jericho defeated M.V.P.
- KING OF THE RING FIRST ROUND MATCH -
C.M. Punk defeated Matt Hardy
- KING OF THE RING FIRST ROUND MATCH -
Fit Finlay defeated The Great Khali
via a disqualification
- KING OF THE RING FIRST ROUND MATCH -
William Regal defeated Hornswoggle
Hillary Clinton addresses the WWE audience
Carlito defeated Hardcore Holly
- KING OF THE RING SEMI-FINAL MATCH -
C.M. Punk defeated Chris Jericho
Barack Obama addresses the WWE audience
- KING OF THE RING SEMI-FINAL MATCH -
William Regal defeated Fit Finlay
John McCain addresses the WWE audience
- DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY PRESIDENTIAL SMACKDOWN -
Senator Hillary Clinton vs Senator Barack Obama
ended in a draw due to Umaga`s interference
- KING OF THE RING FINAL MATCH -
William Regal defeated C.M. Punk
becoming King of the Ring
- EIGHT MAN TAG TEAM MATCH -
Randy Orton, J.B.L., Chavo Guerrero & Edge
defeated
Triple H, John Cena, Kane & The Undertaker
Air Time: 3:04:56
Run Time: 2:20:18
RAW
# 779
4-28-08 LIVE
IZOD Center
East Rutherford, New Jersey
After his shocking ascension to the throne as King of the Ring last week on Raw, General Manager William Regal arrived in
East Rutherford for his coronation ceremony. Instead, the newly anointed majesty was treated to a royally rude awakening
by a returning Mr. Kennedy – which led to Regal’s besmirching the main event at the expense of our fans, new WWE Champion
Triple H and Randy Orton. Before an incensed Regal pulled the plug on the Raw main event, the 2008 King of the Ring was
royally aggravated by the
loudmouth from Green Bay, Wisc. Kennedy told the newly crowned Regal that his monarchy was tainted because he didn’t go
through him to earn the throne. Raw’s GM took great exception to what he dubbed as Kennedy’s “insolence,” and demanded an
apology. When Mr. Kennedy’s response was much less than what the king expected, Regal attacked with imperial anger, and
the two Superstars brawled until WWE referees separated them. What’s next as the 2008 King of the Ring winner and Raw GM
attempts to force every Superstar in WWE to submit to his rule? Will Regal’s iron-fisted ways find him knocked from the
throne by a brazen detractor like Mr. Kennedy?
Like a pair of runaway tractor trailers mowing down barriers toward a head-on collision, Triple H and Randy Orton have
trampled over obstacles for months to finally clash in a WWE Championship Steel Cage Match at the crossroads of Judgment
Day. The Game leveraged his smarts and stamina at Backlash to roll through the gauntlet of JBL, John Cena and Randy Orton
during a vicious WWE Championship Fatal Four Way Match to capture his 12th World Championship. The following night, the
Legend Killer could scarcely wait to confront the man who took from him that which he holds most dear—the WWE Championship.
Orton invoked his rematch clause in the hopes of regaining the title before his waist had a chance to grow cold. Alas,
before the main event match could reach a conclusion, an irate William Regal pulled the plug on the audio and video; the
Raw General Manager was incensed after Mr. Kennedy ruined his King of the Ring coronation ceremony. Before he wrecked the
match ending, however, Regal did manage to arrange the rematch between the rivals inside a 15-foot high steel entrapment.
Despite the inconclusive finale to their WWE Championship Match on Raw, Triple H will nonetheless carry the title into
Judgment Day. As he and Orton travel the highway toward their next rematch, who among the two will emerge as the WWE
Champion, and who will emerge as roadkill?
Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho hosted another installment of the Highlight Reel with special guest Shawn Michaels,
who was coming off a victory at Backlash over Batista. Y2J’s accusations that HBK faked a knee injury to get the win over
The Animal did not sit well with Michaels, who made it known to Jericho that he – one of the most decorated Superstars in
history – was genuinely hurt by the implications. Chris Jericho’s mockery of Michaels’ performance at Backlash was evident
with the bravado which Y2J displayed by comparing HBK’s hard-fought win to Fuji General and Michael Cole’s embarrassing
moment with Heidenreich in 2004. Presenting an acting award to Shawn Michaels, Jericho’s sudden contempt for HBK has come
to the forefront, as Y2J has challenged The Showstopper’s integrity.
JBL decimated Robbie of The Highlanders on Raw, one day after his disappointing performance in the Fatal Four Way
Elimination Match at Backlash. The former WWE Champion – who tapped to John Cena the night before – then warned that last
night’s embarrassment has “unleashed hell.” With this new side let loose, JBL challenged the WWE Champion, whoever it may
be, to a match for the gold. He then turned his attention to the man who eliminated him from the Backlash championship
battle. “I will destroy John Cena,” said the angered JBL, still seething after failing to gain the title, courtesy of
Cena’s STFU.
After falling at Backlash, Women’s Champion Mickie James, Kelly Kelly, Michelle McCool, Cherry, Ashley & Maria gained a
measure of revenge on Beth Phoenix, Victoria, Natalya, Melina, Jillian & Layla on Raw, defeating the devious Divas. Though
her teammates sustained a steady assault for most of the match, Mickie James showed why she is the champion when she used a
modified bridge pin on Jillian to get the win for her team, much to the disgust of former champion Beth Phoenix.
Last week on Raw, after watching fellow World Tag Team Champion Hardcore Holly fall in one-on-one action to Carlito, Cody
Rhodes told Santino Marella to shut up, leading to a skirmish between the duos. This week, Rhodes squared off against
Marella to try and seal the Italian’s mouth the old fashioned way – by force. Before the encounter, Santino expressed his
hatred for fake Italians and the state of New Jersey, infuriating our fans in East Rutherford. Rhodes was able to defeat
Marella and silence the fast-tongued Superstar, albeit momentarily. As Cody taunted his downed opponent, Santino Marella,
Carlito delivered a Backstabber to Rhodes and ran from the ring. Later, Santino’s partner wasn’t around to protect him,
however, as the cocky Superstar had an unpleasant encounter with WWE Hall of Famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper.
Paul London & Brian Kendrick sustained their winning ways on Raw, while Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch’s
downward spiral continued. London & Kendrick’s in-ring symmetry is second to none, and Kendrick capitalized on a Murdoch
mistake to get the win. After the match, Cade once again berated his tag partner, but Murdoch took to the announce table,
where he sang his rendition of “Friends in Low Places,” confusing our fans as well as his frustrated partner, Lance Cade.
Raw General Manager William Regal’s fellow countrymen, Paul & Katie Lea Burchill, competed in the new king’s name
in an Intergender Handicap Match against Super Crazy. The Burchill siblings dominated Super Crazy, and after a devastating
curb stomp by Paul, he allowed his sister to get the pin for the victory.
MATCHES:
- 12 DIVA TAG TEAM REMATCH -
Women's Champion Mickie James, Maria, Ashley Masaro,
Michelle McCool, Cherry & Kelly Kelly
defeated
Beth Phoenix, Melina, Jillian Hall,
Victoria, Natalya Neidhart & Layla
J.B.L. defeated Robbie McCallister
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
defeated
Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch
- HANDICAP MATCH -
Paul & Katie Lea Burchill
defeated
"The Insane Luchador" Super Crazy
World Tag Team Champion Cody Rhodes
defeated
Santino Marella
" WWE CHAMPIONSHIP "
WWE Champion Triple H vs Randy Orton
ended in a no contest
due to William Regal shutting down the broadcast
Air Time: 2:03:34
Run Time: 1:46:44
RAW
# 780
5-5-08 LIVE
Air Canada Center
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
William Regal is not to be trifled with. The Raw General Manager and reigning King of the Ring made that perfectly clear
at the Air Canada Centre as he pitted Mr. Kennedy, the man who sullied his coronation ceremony the week before, against
the entire ECW roster. His Royal Pain in the Arse wasn’t finished there, though. When Triple H marched in to protest Regal
pulling the plug on his match against Randy Orton the week before, the immodest monarch swept The Game into the Handicap
Match as well, teaming him up with the loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis. Earlier in the night, Regal received the full
blessing of Mr. McMahon, who made a special appearance to state unequivocally that he supports and endorses Regal’s
actions. With that, the unlikely duo faced a wall of ECW’s most extreme, including CM Punk, The Miz & John Morrison, Chavo
Guerrero & Bam Neely, Shelton Benjamin, Tommy Dreamer, Kofi Kingston, Stevie Richards, Elijah Burke, Matt Striker, Nunzio,
Mike Knox and ECW Champion Kane. The two representatives for Raw actually held their own against the extreme squad, but,
in the end, it wouldn’t be enough. After a back and forth battering, Chavo pinned Kennedy’s shoulders to the mat for the
three-count. That’s when all hell broke loose. With so much ECW animosity bouncing around, there was bound to be bruises.
The squared circle quickly deteriorated into a 16-man demolition derby. Just when things looked as if they couldn’t
unravel any further, well, that’s when the lights shut off. After several moments of unexplained darkness, the bulbs
kicked back on, and there stood Randy Orton. As Triple H had his battle-hardened hands full, Orton attacked. The Legend
Killer slithered close, collared the champion and dropped him with a devastating RKO. Orton may have gained a modicum of
momentum, but if past is precedent, The Legend Killer hasn’t heard the last of The Game.
Beth Phoenix invoked her rematch clause on Raw, but Women’s Champion Mickie James successfully defended her title against
the former champion in a Lumberjack Match. Over the past few weeks, the Divas of WWE have been involved in 12-Diva Tag
Matches, but this night belonged to the Women’s Champion. The Glamazon’s fellow Diva, Melina, cost her the chance to
reclaim gold when she accidentally nailed the dominant Diva with her boot, giving James the opening she needed to earn
another victory and keep her title.
Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho & Shawn Michaels teamed together on Raw to defeat WWE Tag Team Champions John
Morrison & The Miz in a non-title match. With HBK seemingly less than 100 percent, Y2J fought the champions with all he
had, and Michaels delivered Sweet Chin Music to John Morrison, followed by a Lionsault by Jericho to get the win. After
Raw finished, WWE Mobile on AT&T subscribers were the first of our fans to know that at Judgment Day, the growing tension
between Shawn Michaels and Chris Jericho will see the two square off one-on-one. Preview the match
Carlito hosted a special edition of his Cabana with a very special guest – WWE Hall of Famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. Carlito
told Piper that it wasn’t cool when he slapped Santino Marella last week, which brought Marella and a microphone to the
arena. Insulting Piper, Marella berated “Hot Rod” for his actions, and the No. 1 contenders to the World Tag Team
Championship were poised to attack – until Cody Rhodes came to Piper’s defense. Rhodes told Carlito & Santino that even
though his fellow champion Hardcore Holly wasn’t in the arena tonight, another duo was anxious to meet Roddy Piper. Rhodes
introduced Cryme Tyme, and JTG & Shad joined Rhodes and Piper in ridding Toronto of “Can-tino.”
JBL’s anger over losing the Fatal Four Way at Backlash continued for a second straight week, as the self-proclaimed
“Wrestling god” took on Canada’s own DH Smith. Offering a warning before the match to Smith, JBL pummeled the young Raw
Superstar and solidified his threats to John Cena – the man who eliminated him at Backlash. JBL is more focused with his
newfound attitude, and he is looking to make Cena – whom he will face at Judgment Day – and anyone else who stands in his
way pay for his misery.
GM William Regal continued to lend a hand to his fellow Britons, Paul & Katie Lea Burchill, when he placed the siblings
into a Handicap Match for the second straight week. Before the match, Regal removed Jim Ross from commentary and replaced
him with Mike Adamle, much to the chagrin of everyone but the General Manager. The Burchill’s made the most of the
opportunity afforded to them, destroying their competition once again. Paul delivered a devastating curb stomp to John
Cutler, again allowing Katie Lea to get the pin for the victory.
Last week, Trevor Murdoch expressed his frustration over mounting losses with his rendition of "Friends in Low Places" –
much to the chagrin of his tag team partner, Lance Cade. Murdoch continued his serenading ways this week, belting out
"Stand by Your Man." Toronto’s own Trish Stratus made a surprising return to the Air Canada Centre, and then she was
joined by Ron Simmons, who had his own critique of Trevor’s tune: “Damn!”
William Regal is not to be trifled with. The Raw General Manager and reigning King of the Ring made that perfectly clear
at the Air Canada Centre as he pitted Mr. Kennedy, the man who sullied his coronation ceremony the week before, against
the entire ECW roster. His Royal Pain in the Arse wasn’t finished there, though. When Triple H marched in to protest Regal
pulling the plug on his match against Randy Orton the week before, the immodest monarch swept The Game into the Handicap
Match as well, teaming him up with the loudmouth from Green Bay, Wis. Earlier in the night, Regal received the full
blessing of Mr. McMahon, who made a special appearance to state unequivocally that he supports and endorses Regal’s
actions. With that, the unlikely duo faced a wall of ECW’s most extreme, including CM Punk, The Miz & John Morrison, Chavo
Guerrero & Bam Neely, Shelton Benjamin, Tommy Dreamer, Kofi Kingston, Stevie Richards, Elijah Burke, Matt Striker, Nunzio,
Mike Knox and ECW Champion Kane. The two representatives for Raw actually held their own against the extreme squad, but,
in the end, it wouldn’t be enough. After a back and forth battering, Chavo pinned Kennedy’s shoulders to the mat for the
three-count. That’s when all hell broke loose. With so much ECW animosity bouncing around, there was bound to be bruises.
The squared circle quickly deteriorated into a 16-man demolition derby. Just when things looked as if they couldn’t
unravel any further, well, that’s when the lights shut off. After several moments of unexplained darkness, the bulbs
kicked back on, and there stood Randy Orton. As Triple H had his battle-hardened hands full, Orton attacked. The Legend
Killer slithered close, collared the champion and dropped him with a devastating RKO. Orton may have gained a modicum of
momentum, but if past is precedent, The Legend Killer hasn’t heard the last of The Game.
MATCHES:
" WOMEN`S CHAMPIONSHIP "
- LUMBERJILL MATCH -
Mickie James
defeated
Beth Phoenix
retaining the title
- 2 ON 1 HANDICAP MATCH -
Paul & Katie Lea Burchill
defeated
John Cutler
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Chris Jericho & Shawn Michaels
defeated
WWE Tag Team Champions
John "Nobody" Morrison & Mike "The Miz" Mizanin
C.M. Punk vs Randy Orton
ended in a nontest
J.B.L. defeated D.H. Smith
14 ON 2 HANDICAP MATCH -
The Entire ECW roster
defeated
Triple H & Mr. Kennedy
Air Time: 2:06:29
Run Time: 1:49:48
RAW
# 781
5-12-08 LIVE
Joe Louis Arena
Detroit, Michigan
Monday was a night of returns as both John Cena and Jeff Hardy appeared on their first edition of Raw after lengthy
absences. Hardy began his comeback by addressing our fans, explaining that he made a mistake and he paid for it. “Now that
I’m back,” he said, “I have a lot of things to do.” Before he could announce his plans to regain the Intercontinental
Championship, Raw General Manager William Regal turned off his microphone and instantly threw him into a match against
Umaga. Despite being caught off guard, Hardy rose to the challenge and surprised the Samoan Bulldozer and the general
manager with a victory. Monday marked Hardy's first appearance since WrestleMania XXIV. No doubt Hardy has expectations
for at least an Intercontinental Championship on the way to WrestleMania XXV.
Carlito & Santino Marella entered the first match of the evening with the opportunity to win the World Tag Team
Championship from Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes. Despite not seeing eye-to-eye lately, Santino invited WWE Hall of Famer
“Rowdy” Roddy Piper to watch from the best seats in the house at the announcers’ table. Unfortunately for “Can-tino” and
his partner, that wasn’t close enough for Piper, who spoiled the tag team’s dreams for the gold. During the contest, Hot
Rod decided to get involved, offering a metaphoric slap in the face to go along with the physical one he provided two
weeks earlier. It was distraction enough for Rhodes to take advantage and pick up the victory to retain the titles. Marella
met up with Piper in the locker room later in the night, promising the Legend that he will get payback.
Lance Cade hasn’t been shy about his frustrations with Trevor Murdoch and the tag teams’ lack of recent success. The sun
shined on Cade & Murdoch on Raw, though, as Murdoch notched the three-count to defeat Cryme Tyme in quick fashion,
appearing to be back on the winning track. Murdoch sang Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler” in celebration. Cade seemed to enjoy
his teammate’s spirit, but the mood soon changed when he took out all of his pent up aggression on Murdoch, ending the
concert early and leaving Murdoch licking his wounds.
A week after Beth Phoenix took an apparently accidental boot to the face from Melina, the two Divas had a chance to put
water under the bridge and prove they could coexist against a Playboy cover girl and the Women’s Champion. But Maria &
Mickie James were as hot as ever, and so was the tension between Melina & Beth. Maria & Mickie coasted to victory after
Beth left Melina’s side. When Melina approached her tag team partner afterward, The Glamazon accused her of hitting her
with the boot last week on purpose. Melina attacked in response, but Beth took control until Jillian and multiple referees
pulled her off.
Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho offered his apologies to Shawn Michaels for accusing him of feigning an injury. He
also gave him a chance to back out of their match this Sunday at Judgment Day. The apology turned out to be too soon,
though. HBK joined Jericho in the ring, only to admit he in fact did fake his knee injury. When Y2J thought Michaels was
simply playing mind games, The Showstopper backed up his confession with some Sweet Chin Music, assuring that their
Judgment Day confrontation would happen.
Mr. Kennedy was loud as ever after consecutive weeks of cutting off William Regal with his notorious antics on Raw.
Kennedy defeated Snitsky in convincing fashion and is not likely to leave Regal alone anytime soon, as the Superstar is
still upset he was not included in the King of the Ring tournament that the general manager won.
If John Cena expected a warm welcome back to Raw after two weeks, he was sorely disappointed. The Champ was greeted with
harsh words and even harsher deeds by his longtime rival Randy Orton and the latest thorn in his side, JBL. The evening
started off promisingly enough. Cena poured on the chivalry when Raw General Manager William Regal threatened to toss
Mickie James’ brother and his fiancée from the Joe Louis Arena for insubordination. The Women’s Champion had pleaded with
the malicious monarch to let them stay, but her appeal had fallen on deaf ears, that is until Cena intervened. The Champ
convinced Regal to change his unreasonable ways — at least for the time being. As a rare show of nobility, the King of the
Ring even arranged a match for an avenging Cena against the man whose punt to the head had put him out of action for the
last two weeks, Randy Orton. During the battle, Cena tore into his longtime rival with glee. Perhaps a little too much
glee. Regal, along with Cena’s Judgment Day opponent, JBL, slinked in to announce that the media maven would act as
referee for the remainder of the bout. JBL overseeing his match proved a difficult hurdle for Cena to clear. When Orton
was able to momentarily pin his shoulders, JBL slapped the canvas for the quickest of three-counts, robbing The Champ of
his revenge. Never one to be left out, WWE Champion Triple H rumbled onto the scene and quickly set his sights on Orton.
In a preview of their Judgment Day duel, a steel cage lowered around the ring. The two began to trade blows in a furious
preview of their upcoming battle before Orton managed to slither under the cage and out of The Game's reach. While Triple
H will settle his differences with Orton, Cena may have to wait a while longer to avenge himself. He has less than a week
to wait, however, until Judgment Day — and his opportunity to strike at JBL.
MATCHES:
" WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP "
Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
defeated
Carlito & Santino Marella
retaining the titles
Mr. Kennedy defeated Gene Snitsky
Maria & Mickie James
defeated
Melina & Beth Phoenix
Jeff Hardy defeated Umaga
Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch
defeated
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
Randy Orton defeated John Cena
Air Time: 2:01:18
Run Time: 1:46:12
RAW
# 782
5-19-08 LIVE
Kemper Arena
Kansas City, Missouri
On a night when the face of One Night Stand took shape with numerous blockbuster matches added to the Extreme Rules
pay-per-view – including a Last Man Standing WWE Championship Match – King of the Ring and General Manager William Regal
found himself out of a job.
In the Raw main event, Regal’s final decree as General Manager played out well for Randy Orton & JBL, who defeated The
Game & John Cena in a tag team battle, ensuring they would get their desired rematches at One Night Stand – with extreme
stipulations of their choosing. JBL informed Cena that they would do battle in the gruesome First Blood Match, while Randy
Orton told WWE Champion Triple H that the title would be up for grabs in a Last Man Standing Match – the same contest
Orton prevailed in over The Game at No Mercy in October.
After announcing that WWE Champion Triple H would team with John Cena to take on Randy Orton & JBL in the main event to
determine their One Night Stand fate, the Raw General Manager was interrupted by Mr. Kennedy. The brash Superstar has
shown little respect for Regal’s tyrannical rule over Raw for the past few weeks, and Kennedy once again challenged the
GM’s authority Monday night. William Regal besmirched Kennedy’s challenge, and was going to wield more of his power, until
Mr. McMahon made his way to the ring. The Chairman made it clear to Regal and our fans that the GM had run wild with
power. Sending a message of his own and showing everyone where the true power lies, Mr. McMahon put Regal into the Loser
Gets Fired No Disqualification Match. Kennedy defeated Regal, unseating the iron-fisted ruler and opening the door for a
new regime at Raw’s helm. As Regal tried to talk to Mr. McMahon about what had transpired, irony befriended the Brit as he
ran into former Assistant General Manager of SmackDown Theodore Long, who quit his job just days earlier. Regal had
already crossed paths earlier in the night in his former office with the "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, who had
business with The Chairman.
Batista has vowed to hurt Shawn Michaels the next time the two come face-to-face, and The Animal moved one step closer
when he defeated Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho on Raw. Batista earned the right to fight HBK in a Stretcher
Match at One Night Stand – a night he hopes to fulfill his promises of pain to Michaels. Will The Animal finally find
retribution against Shawn Michaels or will HBK find a way to win once more?
Since his surprise return last week on Raw, Jeff Hardy has been intent on proving himself in the ring, focusing his energy
on climbing back to the top of WWE. On Raw, Hardy faced Umaga, the man he defeated in his return, but there was no victory
for Hardy this week, just punishment. The Samoan Bulldozer took the fight to the outside of the ring, where he devastated
Jeff with a sidewalk slam. Moments after the match, it was announced that these two rivals would go head-to-head in a Falls
Count Anywhere Match at One Night Stand.
After her unsuccessful attempt to recapture the Women’s Championship at Judgment Day, Beth Phoenix arrived on Raw looking
to reestablish her dominance in the women’s division. Maria’s recent in-ring improvement was no match for the power of The
Glamazon, who dominated Maria en route to victory. Phoenix’s former friend, Melina, who had been sitting at ringside doing
commentary, rushed up the ramp after the match looking to settle the score, before being separated by WWE officials, as
the rivalry between the two heats up. What is next as Beth continues to hunt the gold, while Melina hunts her?
Speaking of the gold, Women’s Champion Mickie James may not know what is next, but Katie Lea Burchill let Mickie know she,
too, had title aspirations. Burchill told James that she will one day be champion. The British Diva then accused Mickie
James of using her friendship with John Cena to make her way to the top. Are Mickie James’ golden days numbered?
While our fans looked forward to seeing WWE Hall of Famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper host Piper’s Pit, Santino Marella furthered
his rivalry with “Hot Rod” when he mocked the legendary sports-entertainer and the famed Pit. After Piper paid a special
visit to Jimmy Kimmel Live last week to prevent Santino from assaulting Cousin Sal, Marella looked to embarrass both men
in return. Instead, Cousin Sal and Piper turned the tables, leaving Santino covered in cake. Santino then challenged
Cousin Sal to a match, which was instantly accepted by Roddy Piper on Sal’s behalf.
MATCHES:
Jeff Hardy vs Umaga
ended in a double countout
Beth Phoenix defeated Maria
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Dave "The Animal" Batista
defeated
Intercontinental Champion
Chris Jericho
to wrestle Shawn Michaels at "One Night Stand"
- LOSER GETS FIRED MATCH -
(NO DISQUALIFICATIONS)
Mr. Kennedy
defeated
William Regal
Randy Orton & J.B.L.
defeated
WWE Champion Triple H & John Cena
Air Time: 2:07:51
Run Time: 1:49:49
RAW
# 783
5-26-08 LIVE
Pepsi Center
Denver, Colorado
WWE Champion Triple H came face-to-face with Randy Orton on Raw, six days before doing battle in a Last Man Standing Match
at One Night Stand for the gold. In front of a sold-out crowd, both Orton and The Game threw accusations at the other as
Todd Grisham attempted to mediate the volatile confrontation. Where Triple H and Orton are both focused on the same thing,
the WWE Championship, each Superstar has taken different roads to the ever-dangerous Last Man Standing Match on Sunday.
Both men firmly believe the gold is their destiny, and both claim to be on the right side of the rivalry – but only one
man can stand tall after their showdown this Sunday. And while The Game and the Legend Killer both have something to prove
to each other, they will undoubtedly look to prove to themselves that their claims of being the best are not farfetched.
Who will walk away from One Night Stand with the WWE Championship in their hands? Will Orton end Triple H’s reign as the
12-time champion? Or, as he claimed, will The Cerebral Assassin’s victory make sure the “Age of Orton” is not only dead,
but also seem like it never existed?
As Jeff Hardy and Umaga head toward a Falls Count Anywhere encounter, and JBL and John Cena look to draw First Blood at
the Extreme Rules pay-per-view this Sunday, the unlikely yet formidable duo of JBL & Umaga defeated Hardy & Cena on Raw.
The combination of Umaga & JBL’s physically punishing styles was too much for the mixture of Hardy’s high-flying offense
with Cena’s brute strength. JBL took advantage after Hardy missed a Swanton Bomb, delivering the Clothesline from Hell to
get the win. Earlier in the night, JBL assured Cena’s close friend, Women’s Champion Mickie James that he would make Cena
bleed like a stuck pig on Sunday. JBL added insult to his promise, insinuating the relationship between Cena & James was
anything but friendship. Has JBL crossed the line and will Cena make the loudmouth pay for it? Will John Cena bring the
pain to JBL in their First Blood Match, or will the self-proclaimed “wrestling god” stay true to his promise to destroy
“The Champ”? What will happen when Umaga and Jeff Hardy do battle anywhere in the arena come One Night Stand? Will the
Samoan Bulldozer put an end to Jeff’s hot streak since his return, or will Hardy defy the odds as he has time-and-time
again during his career?
In the past few weeks, Shawn Michaels and Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho have had their differences in and out of
the ring, with much of the issue stemming from HBK’s rivalry with Batista. On Raw, the two did battle, with the match
ending in a double count-out. When the opportunity arose for Jericho to take his frustrations out on Michaels with a steel
chair after the match, Y2J instead showed his respect for The Showstopper as he lifted him to his feet. As Michaels heads
toward a Stretcher Match showdown with The Animal at One Night Stand, he appears to have gained the respect of his
on-again, off-again rival. Will HBK carry that with him when he faces Batista on Sunday? Will it help when he faces the
enraged Animal?
World Tag Team Champions Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes defeated the determined duo of Paul London & Brian Kendrick to retain
their titles on Raw. After the match, however, Rhodes & Holly were shocked at the arrival of “Million Dollar Man” Ted
DiBiase, who told the champions their days with the gold were numbered. DiBiase then unveiled he and Mr. McMahon had
struck a deal, as he introduced the newest member of the Raw roster – his son, Ted DiBiase. The offspring of the “Million
Dollar Man” showed the same bravado his father did as a legend and three-time tag champion himself, as he guaranteed to
become a World Tag Team Champion, too, in his first match.
On a night where Cryme Tyme robbed the last of the personal effects of former Raw General Manager William Regal’s office,
Mr. Kennedy, the man who ended Regal’s career, continued to roll when he defeated Carlito on Monday night. After the
victory, the man responsible for ridding WWE of Regal was celebrating when the former GM’s fellow Brits, Paul & Katie Lea
Burchill, set up and attacked Kennedy. Intent to earn revenge on the Superstar responsible for retiring Regal, Paul
delivered a Curb Stomp to Kennedy, leaving Raw’s outspoken Superstar silent in the center of the ring.
Despite their friendship, Jillian and Melina went one-on-one on Raw just moments after Melina learned she would face Beth
Phoenix at One Night Stand in an “I Quit” Match. Phoenix sat at ringside on commentary, where she explained that nobody
could make her say those two words. Melina forced the tone-deaf Diva Jillian to tap out, much to the dismay of The Glamazon.
WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon was on Raw with two blockbuster announcements for our fans and each and every WWE Superstar and
Diva, intent to show his appreciation to our fans in attendance and around the world. Mr. McMahon promised that the night
would end with something extraordinary, and true to his word, it did. In an unprecedented move, the Chairman announced
that next week he would begin giving away $1 million each week on Raw. The Chairman also announced that a Draft will take
place at the end of June, and that nobody will be exempt from its grasp. Every Superstar, Diva and announcer can be
drafted to any brand, and the unpredictable nature of the Draft is sure to keep the respective locker rooms abuzz in the
coming weeks.
MATCHES:
Melina defeated Jillian Hall
" WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP "
Cody Rhodes & Hardcore Holly
defeated
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
retaining the titles
J.B.L. & Umaga
defeated
Jeff Hardy & John Cena
Mr. Kennedy defeated Carlito
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Intercontinental Champion
Chris Jericho
vs
Shawn Michaels
ended in a double countout
Air Time: 2:03:20
Run Time: 1:49:19
RAW
# 784
6-2-08 LIVE
Rabobank Arena
Bakersfield, California
Fresh off his victory over Randy Orton at One Night Stand, WWE Champion Triple H found out who his challenger would be at
Night of Champions, the one night of the year where every title is defended. That man is John Cena. At One Night Stand,
both Cena and Jeff Hardy walked away triumphant and believing they should be the one to challenge The Game. With no clear
choice readily apparent, Mr. McMahon set a match that had never been seen before: John Cena vs. Jeff Hardy, with the
winner going on to face Triple H for the gold. Although both Cena and Hardy were exhausted and battered from their matches
on Sunday, it was John Cena who stood tall, securing his spot at Night of Champions. Cena has been angling for the WWE
Championship ever since his return at Royal Rumble. Now, in just four short weeks, the Chain Gang Commander will have his
opportunity to obtain championship gold.
Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho encouraged a dazed Shawn Michaels to continue his Stretcher Match at One Night
Stand against Batista, only to see The Animal brutalize HBK. Just one night later on Raw, Y2J vowed to defend his
Intercontinental Championship as often as possible. He started with JBL in a match Y2J dedicated to the recovering HBK.
Y2J defended the gold ferociously and JBL ended the match with a disqualification by bringing a steel chair into the ring.
Jericho attempted to counter his attack, picking the chair up and preparing to clobber the Longhorn Loudmouth. But before
the chair was swung, he changed his mind, casting the weapon away, and walking away.
Two weeks ago, Mr. Kennedy ended William Regal’s tyrannical GM reign over Raw in a Loser Gets Fired Match. Last week, the
Green Bay Loudmouth was confronted by the Burchill siblings, Paul and Katie Lea, who claimed that by getting Regal fired,
Kennedy made “a very powerful enemy,” in Paul Burchill. On Raw this week, Kennedy hoped to settle his quarrel with
Burchill, but found that the English Superstar had arranged for Umaga to take his place. In a quick, but vicious match
that ended with the Samoan Bulldozer smashing into the announce table, crushing his already-wounded ribs, Umaga lost via
count-out. Before Kennedy could celebrate his victory, however, Paul Burchill rushed to the ring, brutalizing the victor
and escaping to the locker room.
But that wasn’t the only time we saw the Burchills’ viciousness. Katie Lea teamed with Beth Phoenix against WWE Women’s
Champion Mickie James & Melina. Despite their championship pedigree, Mickie & Melina had trouble, with Melina only wanting
to exact revenge on The Glamazon after their “I Quit” Match at One Night Stand. Melina’s distraction allowed Katie Lea to
pin Mickie James for the win. After the match, Paul Burchill walked down to the ring to celebrate with his sister, but Mr.
Kennedy rushed out and retaliated against Paul, sending him and Katie Lea into a hasty retreat.
After her losing match against The Glamazon and Katie Lea, WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James found solace with John Cena,
who she has been seen with quite a bit lately. The two discussed the rumors swirling about them, and Cena returned an
undergarment that James had “left behind.”
Speaking of titleholders, World Tag Team Champions Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes lost a match to Santino Marella & Carlito.
Though it wasn’t a title match, Holly was angry at Rhodes for the loss, especially since he kept the match’s guest
time-keeper a secret. Rhodes brought out WWE Hall of Famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper to keep time, but even with Piper’s
interference, Santino managed to pin Holly. After Holly chastised Rhodes backstage, the second-generation Superstar was
approached by Raw’s newest member, Ted DiBiase. The “simply priceless” young Superstar warned Rhodes that he was only
three weeks away from finding a partner, and becoming one-half of the new World Tag Team Champions. After his victory over
Holly, Marella chatted with Todd Grisham backstage. The Italian Superstar was quick to point out that even with Piper’s
help, he is still too powerful an opponent for Jimmy Kimmel Live!’s Cousin Sal, who he claims he will defeat on this
Friday’s SmackDown.
Three weeks ago, Lance Cade turned on his long time partner Trevor Murdoch with two powerful punches. In a WWE.com
exclusive, Lance Cade explained that Trevor Murdoch was only holding him back. On Raw, the two squared-off to settle their
score, with Cade dominating his former friend. The team of Cade and Murdoch was a powerful one. The two became World Tag
Team Champions on three occasions – will they be as dominant as singles competitors?
It was a big night on Raw, but what excited WWE fans the most was the details that WWE’s Chairman revealed about McMahon’s
Million Dollar Mania. Starting next week, Mr. McMahon will give away $1 million on Raw – he even had the full amount with
him in cash this week as a show of good faith. Mr. McMahon explained that by registering on WWE.com, fans will be eligible
to receive an on-air phone call from the Chairman himself, and if those lucky fans remember the code shown on the screen
earlier that night, they can win his money.
Mr. McMahon could have just showed up with a giant novelty card or perhaps even a shiny balloon bouquet. But no, that
wouldn’t be the WWE Chairman’s style. Instead, he brought $1 million of his own money to the Rabobank Arena to show his
appreciation to loyal Raw viewers. In front of an eager crowd, Mr. McMahon announced the beginning of “McMahon’s Million
Dollar Mania” giveaway contest. “Maybe I’m a little eccentric, or maybe I just want to attract more viewers,” explained the
Chairman, who also spoke about how WWE fans represent “Americana” and how “snobs don’t understand that.” During his speech,
the Chairman also described how viewers could capture a share of his fortune. He explained that, to win, viewers will be
required to register their name, address and phone number by following the proper links on WWE.com. Once they’ve done
that, assuming they’re 13 years of age and older and are citizens of the United States, they’re eligible. Contestants will
then simply have to watch Monday Night Raw or check with WWE.com to learn the code needed to win. After that, they just
need to make sure they’re available to answer the phone at the number they submitted between the hours of 9 p.m. ET and
11:15 p.m. ET. If their number is dialed, they will be asked to supply the winning code in order to collect their share of
Mr. McMahon’s $1 million. The fact that WWE employees are ineligible to win didn’t stop both Superstars and Divas alike
from admiring the cold, hard cash as they made their way to the ring. Even Cryme Tyme scoped out the greenback bundles,
but Shad & JTG were quickly scared off by the vigilant security. Unlike Cryme Tyme, you can win your share of the money
fair and square by following Mr. McMahon’s easy instructions and registering to win today on WWE.com. Good luck!
MATCHES:
Mr. Kennedy defeated Umaga
via a count out
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Santino Marella & Carlito
defeated
World Tag Team Champions
Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Chris Jericho
defeated
J.B.L.
via a disqualification
and retaining the title
Beth Phoenix & Katie Lea Burchill
defeated
WWE Women's Champion Mickie James & Melina
Lance Cade defeated Trevor Murdoch
John Cena defeated Jeff Hardy
Air Time: 2:03:04
Run Time: 1:47:06
RAW
# 785
6-9-08 LIVE
Oracle Arena
Oakland, California
All across the nation, the only thing on the minds of WWE fans is how to get a piece of McMahon’s Millions. For WWE
Champion Triple H and John Cena though, the number one thing on their minds is championship gold. In just a few short
weeks The Game will be defending his title against John Cena at Night of Champions, but on Raw he squared off against Jeff
Hardy. As The King of Kings and the Legend Thriller beat the bricks off of each other, John Cena sat at the announcer’s
table. Triple H was in the process of getting counted out when Cena pulled The Game off the apron, resulting in a win for
Jeff Hardy by count-out. The two Superstars stared one another down, inches away from a collision, when the high-flying
Hardy launched himself out of the ring, taking down both Triple H and Cena. John Cena’s involvement was retaliation for an
earlier incident with the WWE Champion, when Triple H was acting as guest commentator during Cena’s match with JBL. Though
that meeting was a hard-fought, brutal encounter, the Chain Gang Commander came out on top. After winning, Cena climbed on
the announcer’s table and confronted The King of Kings. Cena’s celebration was short-lived, however, as The Game started to
walk away, only to pull his Night of Champions opponent’s legs out from under him, dropping him to the table – a sign of
The Cerebral Assassin’s usual mental chess.
Another Raw rivalry is brewing between Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels. The two have been
hounding one another since Y2J accused The Showstopper of faking a knee injury at Backlash. HBK was indeed faking,
something he revealed by performing Sweet Chin Music on Jericho a few weeks later. Frustrated that Michaels was cheered
for faking an injury, while he gets booed for doing what he thinks is the right thing, Jericho attacked HBK while he was a
guest on the Highlight Reel, smashing his head into the Jeri-Tron 6000. Neither of these men are known for letting things
go, and will likely be battling it out on Raw – as long as neither of them gets pulled to another brand during the WWE
Draft, taking place in less than two weeks.
Night of Champions is an event made up completely of title matches, so WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James must be growing
more and more excited to defend her coveted gold. One potential challenger is former champion Beth Phoenix, who lost the
title to James almost two months ago. These Divas competed again on Raw, with James reliving her championship win by
pinning Phoenix in a non-title match. Discontented with her loss, The Glamazon attacked James only to be interrupted when
Melina rushed in and pummeled Phoenix.
After two weeks of interrupted matches and retaliatory beatings, Mr. Kennedy finally faced off against Paul Burchill in
the ring. Proving yet again why he continues to make such a splash on Raw, the Green Bay Loudmouth defeated Burchill.
After the match, however, Paul’s sister Katie Lea stepped in and slapped Kennedy, distracting him long enough for Burchill
to perform a Twisted Sister on the outspoken Superstar, no doubt prolonging this rivalry for weeks to come.
Raw fans also saw the unconventional team of Umaga & Snitsky as they took on World Tag Team Champions Hardcore Holly &
Cody Rhodes. Though neither Umaga nor Snitsky are known for their communication skills, their sheer power and brutality
was enough to carry the two monsters to victory in a non-title match. As Holly & Rhodes argued over a loss for the second
time in two weeks, Raw’s newest Superstar, Ted DiBiase appeared, warning the champions once again that at Night of
Champions, he and a partner of his choice will take their gold.
The night’s other tag team match-up was between Cryme Tyme and Carlito & Santino Marella. The Braggadocios Italian
Superstar hoped to redeem himself after his defeat at the hands of Jimmy Kimmel’s Cousin Sal on SmackDown. Unfortunately
for him, they were no match against Raw fans’ favorite hooligans, and Cryme Tyme picked up the win.
As always, Raw was an exhilarating show, but what really had people on the edges of their seats was, of course, McMahon’s
Million Dollar Mania. The WWE Chairman made good on his promise, giving away a full $1 million to lucky Raw fans. Though it
wasn’t all good, with Raw audiences being forced to endure a singing competition between Trevor Murdoch and Jillian, and a
Charlie Haas-Mae Young make-out session, Mr. McMahon dubbed the night a success, and went so far as to promise to give out
another $1 million next week on Raw to fans who register to win on WWE.com.
For anyone who questioned the veracity of McMahon's Million Dollar Mania, the answer came early on Monday Night Raw. Mr.
McMahon announced that he would give away $200,000 after the first match of the night, and he did just that. Of the more
than 1.5 million entries, eight registrants were the lucky ones selected. The first winner of the night was Daniel
Crummett of Twentynine Palms, Calif., who answered and happily laid out the password, WWE Universe, to pocket himself
$200,000. "I think I'll take a vacation to see my brother in Utah," said Drummet, a 24-year-old grocery store worker and a
20-year WWE fan. "And I'm definitely going to WrestleMania XXV!" Next up for McMahon's Million Dollar Mania treatment was
Justin Guy from Greenville, Tenn., who won $75,000. Guy, 26, who works as a caregiver for the mentally disabled, says he's
looking forward to paying off his house with his winnings. Not only that, he hopes to catch a live Raw show in North
Carolina about a month from now. Goodness knows he can afford it. "This is a dream come true," said Donna Rose of New
Haven, Mich., after winning $125,000 of the Chairman's green. Watching Raw at home with her husband Chris and 4-year-old
daughter Elizabeth, the 28-year old, stay-at-home mom said that her husband hopes to buy a new Harley Davidson motorcycle
with the windfall. If so, the family will have plenty left over to spend on the already-planned vacation they're taking to
Niagara Falls this month. Lady luck continued to roll with the next winner, Stephani Green, 22, of Lafayette, Ind., who
landed $98,000. "This is so awesome, a life-changing experience," said a breathless Green, a stay-at-home mom to
11-month-old twins, who watches Raw with her longtime wrestling fan husband. One fan, Sara Fuhrmann of Keller, Texas,
couldn't be blamed for feeling just a little disappointed with her winnings. After giving the correct password, Fuhrmann,
25, was told by Mr. McMahon that she had won a grand total of $2. "I still think [the sweepstakes] is an awesome idea,"
said the scheduling manager for a neurosurgeon and mother of a daughter, who turns three next week. As a consolation, WWE
offered Fuhrmann and her daughter and husband a free trip to New York City. Joshua Smith, 26, of Long Beach, Miss. fielded
the Chairman's next call, which was worth $200,000. "That's about 11 or 12 years worth of my salary," said the Wal-Mart
employee, who plans to use the money so that he and his fiance can give their 11-month old baby girl a better life. The
life of construction worker Will Frank of Meadville, Penn. just got $51,998 worth of better, compliments of Mr. McMahon's
cash. The 33-year old said that he and his wife can now look forward to buying a new car and maybe a house. And last but
certainly not least, Steve Rosenzweig of Mount Horeb Wis., captured $250,000. As a longtime WWE fan , the 42-year old
internet retailer was thrilled to win from Mr. McMahon. Although, with this silver lining, there's also a bit of a
cloud. "To be honest, I'm in the middle of a divorce," said Rosenzweig, 42, chuckling at the situation. "I'm sure there's
going to be an interesting fight over it." But even half of $250,000 is nothing to sneeze at. "This sweepstakes," said
Rosenzweig, "can definitely make a dream or two come true."
MATCHES:
Mr. Kennedy defeated Paul Burchill
- NON TITLE MATCH -
WWE Women's Champion
Mickie James
defeated
"The Glamazon" Beth Phoenix
John Cena defeated J.B.L.
- NON TITLE MATCH -
"The Samoan Bulldozer" Umaga & Gene Snitsky
defeated
World Tag Team Champions
Hardcore Holly and Cody Rhodes
- SING OFF -
Jillian Hall vs Trevor Murdoch
no winner was announced
"Cryme Tyme" shad & J.T.G.
defeated
Carlito and Santino Marella
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Jeff Hardy
defeated
WWE Champion Triple H
Air Time: 2:11:34
Run Time: 1:54:09
RAW
# 786
6-16-08 LIVE
E - Center
Salt Lake City, Utah
In a rare champion vs. champion encounter, WWE Champion Triple H and Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho went
head-to-head on Raw in a non-title match that ended with Lance Cade’s unexpected interference. Despite the emergence of
John Cena, who came to aid his Night of Champions opponent, it was Y2J’s alliance with the hostile former World Tag Team
Champion that stood tall. The Game and Y2J’s confrontation grew out of Jericho’s behavior last week, when he brutalized
Shawn Michaels, smashing his head into the Jeri-Tron 6000. Jericho was initially confronted on Raw by Ric Flair in the
“Nature Boy’s” return to WWE for the first time since retiring. As the Intercontinental Champion headed out to fight Flair
in the parking lot, he was confronted by an angry Triple H, spoiling for a fight. While Y2J’s encounter with Flair never
happened as a result of Mr. McMahon having The Dirtiest Player in the Game escorted out of the arena, the WWE Chairman set
up Triple H vs. Chris Jericho for that very night. The match came to a finish not with a Pedigree or Walls of Jericho, but
with the surprise involvement of Lance Cade, who rushed in to attack Triple H while both The Game and Chris Jericho were
outside the ring. As Y2J and Cade brutalized Triple H, John Cena entered the ring and dropped both of The Cerebral
Assassin’s attackers, only to be assaulted by Triple H himself. While their opponents were distracted with each other, the
unusual alliance of Jericho and Cade took advantage of the situation and put them both down.
Cena barely had time to recover from his match earlier that night, a Street Fight against Umaga. The two men fought as
relentlessly and brutally as that match stipulation requires, but in the end, it was John Cena who came out on top,
pinning Umaga and showing The Cerebral Assassin exactly what he’ll have to compete against at Night of Champions in just
two short weeks.
Another Night of Champions match will feature World Tag Team Champions Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes defending their titles
against Ted DiBiase and a partner of his choice, who has yet to be revealed. Though past weeks have seen the champions
struggling in the ring, Monday night was a return to form as they defeated Cryme Tyme in a non-title match. DiBiase
continued to be a regular face around the ring however, entering the arena and standing by during his future opponents’
bout.
The night’s second tag match was an intergender confrontation between Mr. Kennedy & WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James and
the team of Paul & Katie Lea Burchill. Since defeating their friend and former GM William Regal, Mr. Kennedy has been on
the Burchills’ bad side. The British siblings were victorious in this match-up, continuing their rivalry with Kennedy and
making things look a little more dismal for Mickie at Night of Champions in her championship match against Katie Lea.
Raw also saw a confrontation between former Intercontinental Champions Jeff Hardy and Carlito. Hardy has been making a
tremendous showing lately on Raw, just narrowly missing out on No. 1 contender status for the WWE Championship two weeks
ago, but managing to take out both Triple H and John Cena last week. He continued to give the audience what they wanted by
pinning Carlito for the win.
In what was surely the hottest competition of the night, the WWE Divas participated in a Summertime Beach Bikini Blowout,
including Maria, Eve, Jillian, Layla, Lena Yada, Maryse and Melina. In spite of Jillian trying to serenade the audience,
it was a beautiful contest, with special host Charlie Haas announcing the winner as the lovely Maria.
Though WWE fans are always delighted by explosive matches and beautiful women, for the second week in a row what had them
all jumping out of their seats was Mr. McMahon’s Million Dollar Mania. Over the course of the night, the WWE Chairman gave
away $1 million of his own money to Raw fans viewing at home, going on to announce that even with the 2008 WWE Draft next
week, there’s nothing stopping him from doing it all again. While all Superstars, Divas and even announcers will be
eligible for the Draft, you are still eligible to win your share of $1 million.
Mr. McMahon’s first attempt at giving away $1 million to our fans during McMahon’s Million Dollar Mania proved such a
blockbuster success that the WWE Chairman decided to follow it up for a second week. Eight winners out there are sure glad
he did. First to benefit from the Chairman’s largesse was Denzel Parker of Virginia Beach, Va., who offered up the
password, “Watch Raw and Win,” to secure $125,000 for himself. “I’ll give a little to church and take my mother for a
little shopping spree,” said Parker, 15. “I’ll also buy the 2009 SmackDown vs. Raw [video game], and when Raw comes to
Virginia Beach, I’ll be in the front row.” The overjoyed teen wanted to share one last thought. “Tell John Cena, if he’s
putting out another CD, to give me a call,” said Parker. Next up on the winner’s list, Michael Leyva of Monroe, N.C.,
landed $100,000 of Mr. McMahon’s mon-aayyy. “I’ll pay some bills and come close to paying off my house,” said the
lightbulb salesman, who just bought a new home three months earlier and who has two grown kids, one still in college. When
asked for one word to describe Mr. McMahon, an overjoyed Leyva paused for a moment before sharing his thoughts:
“Perfection.” Mr. McMahon’s third winner, Jesse Jordan of Bethel, Ohio, picked up $50,000 after the caller before him
failed to answer. “I’m going to help my mom out,” said the 32-year-old financial consultant. “I don’t want to say how
because I want to surprise her. I also want to see some WWE pay-per-views, live events and also catch Billy Joel in
concert.” Kyle Mathisen of Hoyt Lakes, Minn., was next to answer the call of a lifetime. The 26-year-old disabled Navy
veteran told Mr. McMahon the password and pulled in $175,000 for his troubles. “Dreams do come true,” said Mathisen, a fan
since the age of three. “I’ll pay off my credit cards, my house and lend my friend some money.” Not nearly as enthused was
Becky Carmon of Advance, N.C., who did everything right, only to have Mr. McMahon hand her a measly $16. When asked what
she’ll do with her meager winnings, the airplane parts inspector told WWE.com that she plans to frame it. “I was hoping to
win the big one,” said the 55-year-old, “but you know how it goes sometimes.” It went a whole lot better for Alana Ayres of
Westmont, Ill. The 23-year-old college student and longtime fan of the Chairman prevailed and collected $174,984. “My dream
would be to meet Mr. McMahon in person and thank him,” said Ayres, who plans to pay for college and buy her mother a car.
“I would give him the biggest hug ever.” Also in line to show his gratitude would be Peter Mauer of Bloomville, N.Y., who
succeeded in winning $75,000. And the money couldn’t have come at a better time. “I have a baby due in a day and a half,”
said the 39-year-old “Stone Cold” Steve Austin fan, who works for a pharmaceutical company. “People should enter the
contest, it could happen to them.” The Million Dollar Mania main event took place at the end of the night when Mr. McMahon
gave away $300,000 to Frank Turbeville of Haddon Township, N.J. “I’ve been crying ever since [I won],” said the 32-year-old
Air Force veteran. “You have no idea what this means to me.” Turbeville plans to use his winnings to pay bills, buy his
fiancée a car, take a vacation, give his dad money and buy his mom a “better headstone.” “I can’t believe this happened,”
said an emotional Turbeville. “I just cannot believe this happened to me.”
MATCHES:
- STREET FIGHT -
John Cena defeated Umaga
- SUMMERTIME BEACH BIKINI BLOWOUT -
Maria
defeated
Eve Torres, Melina, Maryse,
Jillian Hall, Layla & Lena Yada
Jeff Hardy defeated Carlito
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Tag Team Champions
Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
defeated
"Cryme Tyme" SHAD & J.T.G.
Paul & Katie Lea Burchill
defeated
Mr. Kennedy & Mickie James
- NON TITLE MATCH -
WWE Champion
Triple H
vs
Intercontinental Champion
Chris Jericho
ended in a no contest
due to the interference of Lance Cade
Air Time: 2:09:47
Run Time: 1:55:28
RAW
# 787
6-23-08 LIVE
AT&T Center
San Antonio, Texas
Just days before Night of Champions, seismic shifts took place across the landscape of sports-entertainment, with WWE
Champion Triple H being drafted to SmackDown, giving that brand two World Championships, while Raw gained the ECW Champion
Kane. Raw, SmackDown and ECW earned the right to receive a random draft pick by competing in inter-brand matches that led
to 10 Superstars changing their home brands. Even more shocking was the spontaneous destruction of the Raw stage, which
collapsed on top of the Chairman of WWE, Mr. McMahon, in the final moments of the show.
With five Superstars drafted to the brand throughout the night, Raw came away from the draft with a lot of new talent in
their roster. In the very first match of the night, WWE Champion Triple H (prior to being drafted himself) defeated Mark
Henry, earning Raw the first draft pick, which saw the incomparable Rey Mysterio join Monday nights. After the match, The
Game welcomed the Master of the 619, but was interrupted by Triple H’s Night of Champions opponent, John Cena. Cena also
tasted victory, as he defeated his long-time rival, World Heavyweight Champion Edge by count-out. After the match was won,
Edge was attacked by Batista, who has his own problems with the World Champion, and will face him this Sunday at Night of
Champions. With Cena winning the match, Raw earned another draft pick, which brought Batista back to Monday nights, along
with his opportunity to win the World Heavyweight Title this Sunday night. JBL showed San Antonio why he refers to himself
as a “wrestling-god” as he defeated ECW’s Kofi Kingston to earn Raw another draft pick. When the random lottery machine
ran, it was ECW Champion Kane who joined Raw along with his coveted title, though he will still defend it against Big Show
at Night of Champions. In the second of four tag team matches, World Tag Team Champions Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
defeated Chavo Guerrero & Bam Neely, which served as good practice for the champions’ match at Night of Champions against
Ted DiBiase and a mystery partner. After winning the match, it was CM Punk’s music that played as Mr. Money in the Bank
himself joined Raw. WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James & Melina and the team of SmackDown’s Victoria and Natalya also had a
tag team match. Two of these women will be competing at Night of Champions: Mickie will defend her Women’s Championship
against Katie Lea Burchill, and Natalya will compete against an opponent still to be decided in order to become the
first-ever Divas Champion. The draft following this contest was open only to ring announcers, commentators and backstage
interviewers, but when Melina suffered a severe ankle sprain and the match ended in a double-disqualification, both Raw
and SmackDown received draft picks. These picks saw Jim Ross move to SmackDown, and Michael Cole move to the Raw announce
table.
On Friday night, SmackDown will find itself with five new Superstars, two of which were selected after Edge won a
Tri-Branded15-Man Battle Royal. The Ultimate Opportunist threw both Triple H and John Cena over the ropes, winning
SmackDown the final two draft lottery picks of the night: Raw’s Mr. Kennedy, and WWE Champion Triple H, who will bring his
title with him to Friday nights. On Sunday, the father-son team of Finlay & Hornswoggle will challenge WWE Tag Team
Champions John Morrison & The Miz, but on Monday night they warmed up by defeating the team of Santino Marella & Carlito.
The two fighting Irishmen’s win resulted in Jeff Hardy being drafted to Friday nights. SmackDown also benefited from MVP’s
match with Tommy Dreamer, when the Ballin’ Superstar defeated Dreamer in spite of Colin Delaney being in the ECW
Original’s corner. With that win, SmackDown said “Hello” to Umaga, who was drafted to the brand, and immediately entered
the ring, devastating both Tommy Dreamer and Colin Delaney.
ECW only found itself gaining one new Superstar to the brand, due to WWE Tag Team Champions John Morrison & The Miz
defeating United States Champion Matt Hardy and his brother and new SmackDown brand-mate, Jeff Hardy. With the champions’
win, ECW was able to draft Matt Hardy, who brings with him his United States Championship, which he will defend against
Chavo Guerrero at Night of Champions.
In addition to the above Draft shake-ups, Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho entered the arena to address the crowd
in the wake of his rivalry with San Antonio’s own Shawn Michaels. Y2J spoke to Lance Cade over the TitanTron, and the two
criticized HBK for lying and betraying people over the years. Jericho went on to say that he would love to defend his
title against Michaels at Night of Champions, but that HBK was unable to compete due to Y2J smashing his head into the
Jeri-Tron 6000. This brought the San Antonio native himself to the ring, resulting in a violent altercation between
Michaels and the Intercontinental Champion, in which Jericho did further damage to HBK’s wounded eye.
For the third week in a row, Mr. McMahon gave away $1 million of his own money live on Raw. The WWE Chairman gave $100,000
to five lucky winners and $500,000 to one extremely lucky member of the WWE Universe. After giving away that huge final
prize of the night, explosions rocked the Raw stage, which fell apart, collapsing on top of Mr. McMahon. WWE Superstars and
medical personnel alike rushed to the scene, struggling to free the Chairman. The WWE Chairman appeared to be severely
injured in a bizarre accident when lighting equipment crashed onto the stage and a large electric sign toppled onto him at
the AT&T Center. The extent of any injuries were not known at press time, however, the WWE Chairman was immediately
treated at the scene by paramedics who fitted him with a neck brace, loaded him onto a stretcher and rushed him to a local
medical facility via ambulance. WWE officials said that they are conducting a preliminary investigation into the equipment
failure. Officials also said that any emerging facts, as well as Mr. McMahon’s medical condition, will be updated at the
WrestleMania XXV press conference on Tuesday at 1 p.m. in Houston.
MATCHES:
- NON TITLE DRAFT PICK MATCH -
WWE Champion Triple H defeated Mark Henry
resulting in Rey Mysterio being drafted from SmackDown to RAW
- DRAFT PICK MATCH -
Finlay & Hornswoggle defeated Santino Marella & Carlito
resulting in Jeff Hardy being drafted from Raw to SmackDown
- NON TITLE DRAFT PICK MATCH -
World Tag Team Champions
Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes
defeated
Chavo Guerrero & Bam Neely
resulting in C.M. Punk being drafted from ECW to Raw
- NON TITLE DRAFT PICK MATCH -
WWE Tag Team Champions
John "Nobody" Morrison & Mike "The Miz" Mizanin
defeated
United States Champion Matt Hardy & Jeff Hardy
resulting in Matt Hardy being drafted from SmackDown to ECW
- ANNOUNCERS ONLY DRAFT PICK MATCH -
WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James & Melina
vs
Victoria & Natalya Neidhart
ended as a double disqualification
resulting in Jim Ross being drafted from RAW to SmackDown
and Michael Cole being drafted from Smackdown to Raw
- NON TITLE DRAFT PICK MATCH -
John Cena defeated World Heavyweight Champion Edge
resulting in Batista being drafted from SmackDown to RAW
- DRAFT PICK MATCH -
M.V.P. defeated Tommy Dreamer
resulting in Umaga was drafted from RAW to Smackdown
- DRAFT PICK MATCH -
J.B.L. defeated Kofi Kingston
resulting in ECW Champion Kane being drafted from ECW to RAW
- 15 MAN TRI BRANDED BATTLE ROYAL -
RAW`s
Triple H, Kane, Batista, C.M. Punk & John Cena
vs
ECW`s
Matt Hardy, Shelton Benjamin, Chavo Guerrero, "The Miz & John "Nobody" Morrison
vs
Smackdown`s
The Big Show, Khali, Jeff Hardy, Edge & M.V.P.
concluded with Edge as winner resulting in
WWE Champion Triple H and Mr. Kennedy being drafted from Raw to Smackdown
Air Time: 3:07:40
Run Time: 2:25:00
RAW
# 788
6-30-08 LIVE
Ford Center
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Monday’s Raw saw the largest crowd ever for a WWE live event in Oklahoma City, with 11,560 fans in attendance to witness
Jim Ross’ farewell to Raw. Though the packed show began without the brand holding a World Championship, it was a different
case by the time the night ended. In the course of the evening, CM Punk cashed in his Money in the Bank contract to
compete against Edge and win the Rated-R Superstar’s World Heavyweight Championship, bringing the title back to Raw for
the first time in years.
Another recent draftee who found himself wearing gold on Monday night was new Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston. The
Jamaican Superstar was forced to defend his title against the man he won it from the night before, Chris Jericho. Y2J came
to the ring bitter at the Night of Champions turn-out, blaming his loss on Shawn Michaels for interfering in the match,
and challenging HBK to a contest at The Great American Bash in just three weeks. The match ended with Jericho being
disqualified for pulling on Kingston’s tights during a pin, leaving the Intercontinental Championship securely around the
Jamaican Superstar’s waist. Furious at his second loss to Kingston in two nights, Y2J assaulted the Intercontinental
Champion after their match, going for the eyes just as he has against HBK in recent weeks.
In the wake of last week’s tragic accident that saw Mr. McMahon wheeled out of San Antonio’s AT&T Center on a stretcher,
many of our concerned fans inquired about the Chairman’s condition. As Mr. McMahon’s son Shane told our fans, however, his
father is many things, including a very private person. In light of that fact, the younger McMahon informed our fans that
his family has chosen to keep his father’s condition private. In addition, he also urged Raw Superstars and all WWE
employees to stand together during this turbulent time. “We ask everybody to pull together in this time of uncertainty,”
said Shane McMahon. Shane’s address came in the wake of last Monday night’s freak accident. As the Chairman finished
giving away $500,000 of his own money in McMahon’s Million Dollar Mania, a sizable piece of lighting equipment crashed
onto the stage nearby. Moments later, a 10-foot tall, electronic sign toppled over and landed onto Mr. McMahon. The
Chairman was trapped under the wreckage for roughly a minute before a battalion of Superstars and stagehands managed to
free him.
Having just joined the Raw Roster as part of the 2008 Draft, Rey Mysterio greeted the Raw audience and told them how
excited he was to be on Monday nights. Before he could say much else, however, Santino Marella came to the ring and
interrupted the Master of the 619. The Italian Superstar spoke down to the Ultimate Underdog, insulting the former World
Champion and not allowing him a word in edgewise. Mysterio bided his time, and then gave the audience exactly what they
wanted: Attacking Marella and shutting him up with the 619.
At Night of Champions, Cody Rhodes shocked the world by betraying his partner and mentor, Hardcore Holly, teaming with Ted
DiBiase to defeat the veteran and become the new World Tag Team Champions. On Monday night, the two competed in their
second match as a team against Darren Wade & Steve Anthony. After winning the match with a particularly strong showing,
Cody explained his betrayal the night before, saying that he approached DiBiase about forming a partnership, since he was
tired of carrying Hardcore Holly in the ring. DiBiase added that most other young people don’t have the spine that they
do, declaring their new partnership “simply priceless.”
Fresh off her Night of Champions victory over Katie Lea Burchill, WWE Women’s Champion squared off against Jillian in a
non-title match. The Women’s Champion showed why she deserves to have gold around her waist, pinning Jillian for the win
after hitting the songstress with a Mick Kick.
The night before, Kane had lost his ECW Championship to Mark Henry, so he probably wasn’t the best person to show
aggression toward on Monday night. Jamie Noble, however, was hoping to impress Katie Lea Burchill by issuing a warning to
the biggest, baddest guy around, who happened to be the Big Red Machine. Kane didn’t take kindly to Noble’s threats, and
chased him to ring, where he physically punished the recent Raw draftee.
CM Punk added a new title to his rapidly growing resume Monday night on Raw. In addition to former ECW Champion and Mr.
Money in the Bank, the Straightedge Superstar’s business card now reads “World Heavyweight Champion.” A record 11,560 fans
packed the Ford Center as CM Punk cashed in his Mr. Money in the Bank title opportunity and turned the tables on the World
Heavyweight Champion, Edge. It all started after Edge mocked new SmackDown announcer and Oklahoma's native son, Jim “J.R.”
Ross, during his farewell address to Raw fans. Batista had heard enough and intruded on the events to teach the Rated-R
Superstar a lesson. The Animal punished his longtime nemesis and left him lying wounded in the ring. It was then that the
Straightedge Superstar charged down the entrance ramp clutching the Money in the Bank briefcase. As a referee called for
the bell to start the match, CM Punk made quick work of his opponent, leveling an already dazed Edge with a Go To Sleep.
It was difficult not to revel in the irony. After all, it was the Ultimate Opportunist who himself twice cashed in the
Money in the Bank contract over the years against severely weakened opponents to win two World Championships. CM Punk’s
celebration, however, was cut short when JBL challenged him to put the title on the line. Already riding high, WWE’s
newest champion euphorically accepted. Before the match, JBL’s adversary, John Cena, made a plea to Punk and the capacity
crowd to allow him to compete for the title, but the Lonestar Loudmouth brought in his own battalion of security to
confront Cena and escort him from the building. During the title match, JBL’s security detail surrounded the ring in hopes
of intimidating Punk. Toward the end of the match, however, Cena was joined by Cryme Tyme and confronted the goons. As a
melee ensued outside the ring, CM Punk nailed a Go To Sleep to retain his World Heavyweight Championship before joining
Cena and Cryme Tyme in driving back JBL’s security detail. While Punk and Cena joined forces on Monday night, it’s only a
matter of time before “The Champ” hungers for a World Title to call his own.
MATCHES:
" WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP "
C.M. Punk defeated Edge
becoming the new World Heavyweight Champion
- NON TITLE MATCH -
WWE Women's Champion
Mickie James
defeated
Jillian Hall
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Tag Team Champions
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase Jr.
defeated
Darren Wade & Steve Anthony
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Kofi Kingston
defeated
Chris Jericho
via a disqualification to retain the title
" WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP "
C.M. Punk defeated J.B.L.
retaining the title
Air Time: 2:04:07
Run Time: 1:47:36
RAW
# 789
7-7-08 LIVE
New Orleans Arena
New Orleans, Louisiana
Raw opened with a special message from Stephanie McMahon, who expressed a desire for everyone on Raw to work
together in the absence of the WWE Chairman. In spite of several unexpected occurrences, such as a lighting accident and a
fan who managed to make his way into the backstage area, the show moved forward, with two new matches set for The Great
American Bash, including a World Heavyweight Title Match between current champion CM Punk and his challenger, Batista.
The rivalry between Shawn Michaels and Chris Jericho had reached a fever pitch of late after Y2J smashed HBK’s head into
the JeriTron-6000, severely injuring Michaels’ eye. The two have continued to have confrontations in recent weeks, with
the rivalry culminating on this week’s Raw as the brand’s second Great American Bash Match was established. The
Showstopper accepted Jericho’s challenge to face him in two weeks, even though he only has one good eye. Michaels went on
to tell Jericho that even though he has had a fantastic career and won every title he’s ever gone after, he will never be
HBK.
At the beginning of Monday night’s show, World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk endured a tirade and a slap from SmackDown’s
Vickie Guerrero for having won the World Title from Edge. The Straightedge Superstar went on to have another altercation
in the locker room area, this time with Snitsky. The Straightedge Superstar went on to suggest that the two face in the
ring that very night. Punk defeated the yellow-toothed monster in a non-title match, proving exactly why he deserves to
hold the World Championship around his waist.
Another new member of the Monday night roster, Rey Mysterio, had his very first match as a Raw Superstar. Last week, the
Master of the 619 was interrupted by Santino Marella, who went on to insult and degrade Mysterio. When the Ultimate
Underdog had enough, he leapt into action, shutting up the Italian Superstar. This week, Mysterio continued to show
Marella that he isn’t an athlete that you should underestimate as he defeated his opponent handily.
Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston also experienced a win on Monday night by defeating Charlie Haas in a non-title
match. Though the Jamaican Superstar tasted victory, he didn’t have a chance to enjoy it before Paul Burchill rushed into
the ring, performing his vicious Curb Stomp on the Intercontinental Champion.
Before they faced off in a Fatal Four Way Match, John Cena and JBL had an added altercation, involving the self-made
millionaire’s limo. Cena, with some help from Cryme Tyme, worked over JBL’s private automobile with crowbars and baseball
bats, before the Longhorn Loudmouth stomped off to prepare for their match.
Before the incident with JBL’s limo, Cena relaxed near the locker room area with WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James, as
Mickie prepared for a Divas tag match. The two were soon approached by Mickie’s partner for the night: Kelly Kelly. Mickie
explained that the former ECW Diva had just joined the Raw roster, after which the two went to go face Jillian & Layla in
the ring. Though Mickie & Kelly are a new team, they showed that they know how to work together, picking up a win over
their competitors.
Two weeks after the WWE Draft helped lay a new foundation for Raw, a Fatal Four Way Match featuring JBL, John Cena,
Batista and an especially furious Kane nearly shook that foundation to its core. In a Fatal Four Way Match, Batista
prevailed and earned himself the No. 1 contender spot for the World Heavyweight Championship against CM Punk at The Great
American Bash. The night kicked off when SmackDown General Manager Vickie Guerrero rolled out in her wheelchair and blamed
the newly-crowned World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk, for the break up of her impending nuptials to the man he defeated,
her fiancé and former champion Edge. As the two traded barbs, the familiar strains of JBL’s entrance music hit. The
Longhorn Loudmouth began yelping about how he deserved a title opportunity against Punk. As he offered excuse after excuse
why he wasn’t sporting gold, he was cut off by John Cena. JBL’s longtime nemesis scolded the media maven for playing the
“blame game” and insisted that he, too, wanted an opportunity to be the No. 1 contender for the championship at The Great
American Bash in two weeks. “Take off your diaper … and let’s figure this out like a bunch of men,” Cena, in the absence
of a Raw GM or Mr. McMahon, told JBL. Before they could reach an agreement, however, Batista rumbled onto the scene. In a
show of respect, The Animal told the Straightedge Superstar that he deserved the title after prevailing in the Money in
the Bank Match at WrestleMania XXIV. He then made his intentions clear: The former World Heavyweight Champion was
determined to regain the title. After boisterous debate, the three finally settled on battling in a Triple Threat Match to
determine who would face off against Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship. It would be Batista vs. John Cena vs.
JBL in a… Not so fast! There was one other big man yet to be counted. “I want in, too,” bellowed recent Raw recruit Kane,
after lumbering his way to the ring. With that, a Fatal Four Way Match would decide who the contender would be. After
several potential match-ending maneuvers, including chokeslams, Batista Bombs and Clotheslines from Hell, it was Batista
who emerged victorious among the rubble of the four men. After leveling Kane with a spear, The Animal earned the right to
contend for the World Heavyweight Title. As if the rafters hadn’t suffered enough, Kane continued to rattle them after the
match. An enraged Kane went on a tear, tossing around several members of the WWE production crew before turning his sights
on Michael Cole. Kane grabbed the Raw announcer and dragged him to the ring. He repeated the same question, one way or
another, over and again: “Is he alive or is he dead?” When a befuddled Cole was unable to answer, Kane prepared to
chokeslam him. His announcing partner, Jerry “The King” Lawler, however, charged the ring for a save, allowing Cole to
flee. After suffering Kane’s wrath, Lawler lie motionless in the ring. When the dust finally settled, CM Punk’s Bash
challenger seemed determined, while Kane’s actions left many confused, shaken and wondering what the future will hold.
MATCHES:
Rey Mysterio
defeated
Santino Marella
WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James & Kelly Kelly
defeated
Jillian Hall & Layla
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion
C.M. Punk
defeated
Gene Snitsky
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Intercontinental Champion
Kofi Kingston
defeated
Charlie Haas
- WORLD TITLE NUMBER ONE CONTENDERSHIP -
( FATAL 4 WAY MATCH )
Dave "The Animal" Batista
defeated
John Cena, Kane & J.B.L.
Air Time: 2:01:48
Run Time: 1:43:55
RAW
# 790
7-14-08 LIVE
RBC Center
Raleigh, North Carolina
At the top of Monday Night’s Raw, Shane and Stephanie McMahon addressed the WWE Universe and the unpredictability and
confusion that Raw has been embroiled in the past two weeks. Though they promised to take action if things don’t change,
that didn’t prevent another hectic Monday Night Raw, as Kane continued his erratic behavior and the show crashed to a
close with JBL appearing to crash a car into John Cena, who was propped up against another automobile.
Earlier in the night, John Cena & Cryme Tyme had challenged JBL and two partners of his choosing to a Six-Man Tag Team
Match. The self-made millionaire went for the best, recruiting the “simply priceless” World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes
& Ted DiBiase, after they interrupted Kelly Kelly's pending match and intentionally humiliated “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan. Even
though he handpicked his partners, JBL ended up disqualifying his team in the course of the match. Cena pursued his Great
American Bash opponent into the parking lot, where the self-proclaimed “wrestling god” was waiting to club the Chain Gang
Commander with a tire iron. After knocking Cena unconscious, Layfield propped him up and attempted to smash a car into the
prone Superstar. Luckily, John Cena managed to escape at the last minute and was only grazed, meaning that Cena vs. JBL
will still take place on Sunday night.
The McMahons' warning also went unheeded by Kane, who continued to puzzle the WWE Universe, coming down to the ring with a
mysterious bag and apologizing to Jerry “The King” Lawler and Michael Cole. Later in the night, the Big Red Monster asked
World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk to face him one-on-one. But when the two met in a non-title match, Kane was counted
out, and subsequently lost control, attacking the Straightedge Champion with a steel chair. Before much damage could be
done to Punk, Batista rushed to the ring and attacked Kane to make sure that his Great American Bash opponent was in good
shape to face him on Sunday. Batista then sent a clear message to his rival by refusing to shake Punk's hand. The
Straightedge Superstar took exception to The Animal's competitive side and shoved his challenger, prompting Batista to
plant him with a spinebuster.
Two other Great American Bash opponents also had brutal interactions outside sanctioned matches on Monday: Shawn Michaels
and Chris Jericho. Before Raw could even properly begin, the two men’s rivalry devolved into outright physical conflict
which was quickly joined by Lance Cade, aiding Jericho in his attack on Michaels. Later in the evening, after Y2J defeated
Paul London in singles competition, the Ayatollah of Rock 'n' Rolla had some choice words to share about HBK. The
Showstopper came out to the ring in person however, and faced Jericho down one last time before their match on Sunday
night, warning him that “the worst is truly yet to come.”
In a non-title match, WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James defeated Katie Lea Burchill, but soon afterward was subjected to
the combined forces of Katie Lea and her brother Paul. As Paul grabbed onto Mickie, Intercontinental Champion Kofi
Kingston rushed to the ring. The week before, Kofi had been subjected to Paul’s post-match brutality, and this week, the
Jamaican Superstar suggested an Intercontinental Title Match to settle their rivalry. Though he’s still relatively new to
Monday nights, Kofi persevered and pinned Burchill in this impromptu match.
Mickie and Katie Lea weren’t the only Divas to compete on Raw, as Beth Phoenix answered the open challenge of Santino
Marella. The Glamazon is known for her strength and physicality, and brought every ounce of it to her contest with the
Italian Superstar, pinning him in this rare intergender match.
Though Layla didn’t compete, she was the cause of another of the night’s unplanned altercations. Jamie Noble, who has been
struggling to impress Raw Divas in recent weeks, set his charms to work on the 2006 Diva Search winner, promising to cut
the next person he saw down to size. Unfortunately for Noble, the next person to come around the corner was Snitsky.
Despite the obvious size difference, Noble stood up to the monstrous Snitsky, insulting him and leading him down to the
ring. Unfortunately, Noble’s confidence and heart wasn’t enough to compete against his giant, nasty opponent, and Snitsky
decimated his opponent.
MATCHES:
- NON TITLE MATCH -
WWE Women’s Champion
Mickie James
defeated
Katie Lea Burchill
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Kofi Kingston
defeated
Paul Burchill
retaining the title
- INTERGENDER MATCH -
Beth Phoenix
defeated
Santino Marella
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Heavyweight
Champion C.M. Punk
defeated
Kane
via a count out
Chris Jericho
defeated
Paul London
Gene Snitsky
decimated
Jamie Noble
Gilette commercial featuring Vince McMahon & John Cena
Vince plays the straight man
John Cena
&
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
defeated
J.B.L.
&
World Tag Team Champions
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase
via a disqualification
Air Time: 2:07:11
Run Time: 1:53:41
RAW
# 791
7-21-08 LIVE
Mohegan Sun Arena
Uncasville, Connecticut
One night after The Great American Bash, Monday Night Raw was still embroiled in the disorder that has defined the show
since Mr. McMahon was sidelined by injury. As rumors swirled about that Shane and Stephanie McMahon were currently in the
process of searching for a new Raw General Manager, World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk successfully defended his title
against Batista in a match that saw involvement from Kane, JBL and John Cena. The anarchy escalated to the point that Cena
and Batista, two Superstars who normally respect one another, found themselves trading blows at the end of Monday’s Raw.
Before the World Heavyweight Title Match could even begin, Kane emerged and attacked Batista, leading CM Punk to enter the
fray and attack the Big Red Monster. After Kane was escorted out of the arena, the match began, but was quickly ended due
to interference from JBL, who was bitter that Batista was receiving his second World Title Match in as many nights. As The
Animal battered the self-made millionaire, JBL’s Great American Bash opponent, John Cena, rushed to the ring. Though the
Chain Gang Commander only intended to get further payback on Layfield, he accidentally provoked Batista, leading to a
brawl between the two athletes. In spite of the presence of four legitimate contenders during the night’s main event, CM
Punk held onto his championship gold for another night.
JBL and Cena’s rivalry carried over into an official match as well: a rematch from last week’s Raw between the team of
John Cena & Cryme Tyme and JBL & World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase. Though ailing from his NYC Parking
Lot Brawl with Layfield at The Bash the night before, Cena fearlessly pursued his pay-per-view opponent. But when the
self-proclaimed “wrestling god” escaped from ringside, the Chain Gang Commander turned his rage against the World Tag Team
Champions by performing a double FU on the two and pinning Ted DiBiase for the win. It was an especially rough night for
Cody Rhodes, as earlier in the program he suffered a slap from Jerry “The King” Lawler in retaliation for the disrespect
the World Tag Team Champions showed toward “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan.
Though Chris Jericho decimated Shawn Michaels in their match at The Great American Bash, it was Y2J’s protégé, Lance Cade,
who experienced a win on Raw when he faced Paul London. After the match, Jericho entered the ring to show the WWE Universe
footage from the night before when he further injured Michaels’ right eye. Jericho claimed that HBK was suffering a
detached retina with the damage so severe, he was unable to see out of the eye at all, effectively ending Michaels’
career. Perhaps most detestable, Y2J stated that he always speaks the truth as opposed to The Showstopper, who he
characterized as the “most corrupt, immoral and destructive individual in WWE history.”
As the WWE crowd came to terms with the exit of Shawn Michaels, they were comforted by the return of D-Lo Brown, who
defeated Santino Marella. Watching the match at ringside was Beth Phoenix, who had defeated Marella in a rare intergender
battle the week before. After Brown exited the ring victorious, The Glamazon entered for a confrontation with the Italian
Superstar. The two struggled, then stopped suddenly and began kissing passionately only to pull away a moment later,
confused and seemingly a little frightened.
While it’s still unclear whether Beth and Santino have won one another’s affections, there was no confusion about the
winner of The Glamazon’s match with Kelly Kelly. Beth showed that she is a formidable competitor no matter the gender of
her opponent, utilizing her characteristic strength and ferocity to pin the other Diva as easily as she defeated Santino
the week before.
Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston and WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James have some serious competition for their
titles in the form of the brother and sister team of Paul and Katie Lea Burchill. On Raw, the four faced off in an
Intergender Tag Match. Though Kofi had defeated Burchill the week before with the help of Mickie James, this week saw the
Burchills triumphant over the two champions.
MATCHES:
Lance Cade defeated Paul London
"The Glamazon" Beth Phoenix
defeated
Kelly Kelly
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
with
John Cena
defeated
World Tag Team Champions
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase Jr.
with
J.B.L.
- INTERGENDER TAG TEAM MATCH -
Paul & Katie Lea Burchill
defeated
Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston
&
Women’s Champion Mickie James
D-Lo Brown defeated Santino Marella
after a five year abscence from WWE
" WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP "
World Heavyweight Champion C.M. Punk
vs
Dave "The Animal" Batista
ended in a no contest due to J.B.L.`s interference
Air Time: 2:04:05
Run Time: 1:44:04
RAW
# 792
7-28-08 LIVE
Verizon Center
Washington, D.C.
Shane McMahon announced that a new Raw General Manager has been selected, and will be revealed later tonight. The new GM
has made several matches including CM Punk vs. “one of the most technically sound and hottest free agents” in
sports-entertainment and John Cena & Batista against JBL & Kane.
Santino Marella & Beth Phoenix defeated D-Lo Brown & Kelly Kelly. Afterward, in a repeat of last week, Santino and Beth
kissed.
World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase retained their titles by defeating Jerry “The King” Lawler & Michael
Cole, who had been swapped into the match at the last minute by the as-yet-unnamed GM.
Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston defeated Jamie Noble in a non-title match.
The “hottest free agent in sports-entertainment” was revealed to be William Regal, who World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk
defeated in a non-title match. After the match, JBL and Kane both entered the ring and attacked Punk.
Chris Jericho held the very last Highlight Reel, claiming that he’s deserving of a World Heavyweight Title Match.
WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James defeated Jillian in a non-title match. Afterward, Mickie was attacked by Katie Lea
Burchill.
John Cena & Batista defeated JBL & Kane, after which Shane McMahon announced the new GM, Mike "Who?" Adamle, who went on to make
Raw’s first SummerSlam match consisting of John Cena vs Batista.
MATCHES:
Beth Phoenix & Santino Marella
defeated
Kelly Kelly & D-Lo Brown
" WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP "
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase Jr.
defeated
Jerry Lawler & Michael Cole
retaining the titles
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Intercontinental Champion
Kofi Kingston
defeated
Jamie Noble
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion
C.M. Punk
defeated
William Regal
- NON TITLE MATCH -
WWE Women's Champion
Mickie James
defeated
Jillian Hall
John Cena & Dave Batista
defeated
J.B.L. & Kane
Air Time: 2:07:38
Run Time: 1:47:21
RAW
# 793
8-4-08 LIVE
Thompson Boling Arena
Knoxville, Tennessee
After citing the bad first impression he made with the WWE Universe, new General Manager Mike Adamle executed a plan to
turn things around on Raw. Eager to impress, the new GM set up a few “Adamle Originals,” including a headliner for
SummerSlam as well as three title matches for that very night, one of which saw John Cena & Batista become the new World
Tag Team Champions.
Though they will face one another for the first time at SummerSlam, John Cena & Batista were forced to compete as a team
against World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase. In spite of the fierce animosity between the Chain Gang
Commander and The Animal, the two men managed to overpower the champions, and ended Raw in a shaky alliance with new
championship gold around their waists.
Though John Cena and Batista are no doubt happy about becoming World Tag Team Champions, the title they, like much of the
Raw Roster, have their eyes on is CM Punk’s World Heavyweight title. Mike Adamle was confronted early in the night by both
JBL and Chris Jericho, who both desired an opportunity to compete for the gold. In order to determine the No. 1 contender,
Adamle made a 2-on-1 Handicap Match pitting World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk against both JBL & Chris Jericho, with the
Superstar making the pin earning a title opportunity. The Straightedge Champion was no match for the combined might of
these two veteran competitors and was pinned by JBL, who will now face Punk for the Raw brand’s richest prize at
SummerSlam.
One of the reasons Y2J claimed to deserve No. 1 contender status was his match against Shawn Michaels at The Great
American Bash, in which Y2J severely injured The Showstopper’s eye. In an exclusive interview from Michaels’ home in San
Antonio, an ailing HBK stated that while he has certainly been better, the jury is still out on whether his career is
over. Not only is Michaels suffering from a detached retina, but his ribs, broken at WrestleMania 24 and reinjured at The
Great American Bash, are also in very bad shape. The iconic Superstar will have one more evaluation from his doctor, and
will find out the results the Friday before SummerSlam. Michaels plans to attend the Biggest Blockbuster of the Summer
regardless of what the news is, appearing in person to deliver it to the WWE Universe.
In the first of the night’s three title matches, Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston defeated Paul Burchill to retain
gold. After the match, when Kingston chased Paul away from the ring, the brutal Englishman’s sister, Katie Lea, was left
in the ring by herself. She was soon joined, however, by WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James, beginning the night’s second
title match. Mickie defeated Katie Lea to retain her championship gold, but before she could leave the arena, the Women’s
Champion was attacked by Beth Phoenix, accompanied by what appears to be The Glamazon’s new beau, Santino Marella. After
the match, both The Glamazon and the Italian Superstar confronted Mike Adamle about their desires for championship matches
at SummerSlam. Hoping to satisfy both competitors, Adamle created another match for the Biggest Blockbuster of the Summer:
A Winner Takes All Match between Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston & WWE Women’s Champion Mickie James and Santino
Marella & Beth Phoenix, with both titles going to the winning team.
On Monday night, GM Mike Adamle also put Matt Striker in his first match since joining the Raw brand. Unfortunately for
Striker, that match was against the maniacal Kane, who ran roughshod over his opponent. Following the match, the Big Red
Monster took hold of a microphone and admitted that he has been in a bad place lately, referencing his string of brutal
assaults on in-ring competitors and announcers alike. Holding up his mysterious burlap sack, Kane assured the WWE Universe
that whoever “he” is, is dead … and not coming back. While Kane seems more at peace with whatever, or whoever is in his
enigmatic burlap bag, it’s still a mystery to the rest of the WWE Universe. Hoping to endear himself to the WWE Universe,
GM Adamle announced that next week on Raw, he will solve the mystery of Kane’s burlap sack, ordering the Big Red Monster
to disclose its contents.
In another act aimed at pleasing the WWE Universe, GM Adamle had Layla perform one of her special dances in the ring.
Before our fans could get their fill of eye-candy, however, William Regal stormed to the ring, interrupting Layla’s show
and dismissing her as a “tart.” Earlier on WWE.com, Layla rebuffed the advances of the tenacious Jamie Noble, explaining
that she doesn’t associate with losers, but that couldn’t keep Noble from rushing to the ring to defend the Diva’s honor.
The diminutive Superstar assaulted Regal, battering the British brawler until they were separated by referees.
MATCHES:
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Kofi Kingston
defeated
Paul Burchill
retaining the title
" WOMEN`S CHAMPIONSHIP "
Mickie James
defeated
Katie Lea Burchill
retaining the title
- NUMBER 1 CONTENDERSHIP MATCH -
( 2 ON 1 HANDICAP WITH A 10 MINUTE TIME LIMIT )
J.B.L. & Chris Jericho
defeated
World Heavyweight Champion C.M. Punk
via J.B.L. pinning C.M. Punk
Kane defeated Matt Striker
" WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP "
John Cena & Batista
defeated
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase Jr.
becoming new World Tag Team Champions
Air Time: 2:07:33
Run Time: 1:47:00
RAW
# 794
8-11-08 LIVE
Richmond Coliseum
Richmond, Virginia
Though SummerSlam is less than a week away, Raw was the site of big changes on Monday, with the contents of Kane’s
mysterious burlap sack finally revealed, and the World Tag Team Titles changing hands for the second week in a row.
The week before saw the team of Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase lose their World Tag Team Championship to the unlikely duo of
John Cena & Batista, scheduled to be opponents at the Biggest Blockbuster of the Summer. On Monday night, the young
Superstars exercised their rematch clause. Taking advantage of the friction between the SummerSlam opponents, the
priceless pair managed to regain their titles. The loss served to further exacerbate the tensions between Cena & The
Animal, as the night’s show came to an end with the two brawling with one another.
In another one of his “Adamle Originals,” Raw General Manager Mike Adamle set a SummerSlam match, but decided to have it
take place on Raw that very night. Adamle pitted two of Raw’s biggest stars against each other: Kane and Chris Jericho.
During the match, the Raw GM and his security began making moves for the mysterious burlap sack that the Big Red Monster
has carried to the ring with him lately. In spite of Kane’s protests, Adamle had promised that the bag’s contents would be
revealed to the WWE Universe that very night. While the Big Red Monster was distracted by trying to protect his bag, Chris
Jericho hit his opponent with the Codebreaker and pinned Kane. After the match, Adamle approached Kane, telling him that
he knew the bag contained the Big Red Monster’s old mask. Kane admitted that there was indeed a mask in the bag, and that
the person it belonged to had been scarred and severely damaged, but when he opened the sack, it wasn’t Kane’s mask, but
that of Rey Mysterio.
Though he’ll challenge World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk for his title this Sunday at SummerSlam, on Raw, JBL challenged
the champion to a contest the self-proclaimed “wrestling-god” knew the Straightedge Superstar couldn’t win. When Punk
entered the ring, JBL revealed what the contest was: a drinking competition. For Punk to win, he would need to drink a
shot of alcohol, which runs counter to his ideals and principles. Stating that he makes his own rules, the Straightedge
Champion took the shot and threw it in the face of the self-made millionaire before beating his SummerSlam opponent to the
ground.
Another SummerSlam match will see Santino Marella & Beth Phoenix compete against Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston &
Women’s Champion Mickie James in a Winner Takes All Match, where the winning team will take both the Intercontinental and
Women’s titles. On Raw, Santino escorted his ladyfriend to the ring where The Glamazon made quick work of Kelly Kelly.
Following the match, as the Braggadocios Italian Superstar urged Phoenix to do more damage to her beaten opponent, the
couple was interrupted by Kingston and James, who ran down and chased them from the ring. Stating that he needed to
practice wrestling against women, Santino challenged Mickie to a match, which the Women’s Champion quickly accepted.
However, being in her hometown wasn’t enough motivation as Mickie was overpowered and defeated by the Italian with a
little outside help from The Glamazon.
Cryme Tyme also competed on Monday night against the returning team of Scotsmen, The Highlanders. Though Robbie & Rory of
were eager to prove themselves after their short hiatus, they were no match for the teamwork of Shad & JTG, who picked up
the win.
Another recently-returned Superstar, William Regal, competed against Jamie Noble. The week before, Noble had attacked
Regal for interrupting Layla’s dance performance, and he hoped to continue to prove himself to the dancing Diva by
defeating the British brawler on Raw. Unfortunately for Noble, that didn’t pan out, as Regal battered the smaller
Superstar and won the match.
MATCHES:
"The Glamazon" Beth Phoenix
defeated
Kelly Kelly
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Santino Marella
defeated
Women's Champion Mickie James
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G
defeated
"The Highlanders" Rorrie & Robbie
Chris Jericho defeated Kane
William Regal defeated Jamie Noble
" WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP "
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase Jr.
defeated
John Cena & Dave Batista
becoming the new World Tag Team Champions
Air Time: 1:59:52
Run Time: 1:41:26
RAW
# 795
8-18-08 LIVE
Allstate Arena
Chicago, Illinois
When Raw rolled into World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk’s hometown on Monday night, the Straightedge Superstar was riding
high after his successful title defense against JBL at SummerSlam. By the end of the night, however, things were looking
more grim. Not only did General Manager Mike Adamle set an unprecedented “Championship Scramble” with Punk facing off
against John Cena, Batista, Kane and JBL at Unforgiven, but the Straightedge Champion also suffered a defeat at the hands
of Chris Jericho.
Though Raw’s main event saw him defeat the World Heavyweight Champion in a non-title match, Chris Jericho made an
appearance earlier in the night as well. WWE’s first-ever Undisputed Champion addressed the events of SummerSlam, during
which Jericho accidentally clobbered Shawn Michaels’ wife with a punch meant for HBK. Jericho urged The Showstopper to
concentrate on comforting his family and stay at home. Currently, it is unclear whether Michaels will take his rival’s
advice. Following SummerSlam, in an exclusive interview with Michael Cole, HBK made clear his plans to go home and comfort
his family, but seemed to have something else in mind as he intensely added “and then … then …”
One of World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk’s most lethal Championship Scramble opponents, Kane, continued his reign of
terror on Raw, and admitted to brutalizing Rey Mysterio, whose mask the Big Red Monster had been carrying around in a
burlap sack. Kane claimed to have attacked the Master of the 619 for being a “fungus that grows in the marshes of your
psyche.” Soon after, Mysterio’s former tag team partner and good friend, Batista, rushed the ring and attacked the Big Red
Monster. In spite of The Animal’s fury, Kane managed to gain the advantage due to Batista’s injured leg. Though he was
unable to get the upper hand with Kane, Batista did fight through the injury sustained against John Cena at SummerSlam to
defeat Paul Burchill in a match-up earlier in the night.
Also picking up momentum leading up to the Championship Scramble was John Cena, who beat the odds by defeating World Tag
Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase in a 2-on-1 Handicap Match. Before the match even began, Cena’s allies, Cryme
Tyme, emerged and stole the coveted titles from the champions. Though they outnumbered the Chain Gang Commander, Rhodes &
DiBiase’s arrogance got the best of them, allowing Cena to pick up the win and gain some matter of redemption following
his SummerSlam loss to Batista.
JBL, the fifth participant in the Championship Scramble also competed on Monday night, as the Longhorn Loudmouth faced off
against another Superstar who loves to sound off: Jamie Noble. Though Noble brought his characteristic ferocity and
tenacity, it wasn’t enough to defeat the self-proclaimed “wrestling god” JBL, who landed three powerful Clotheslines from
Hell and was awarded the win after the referee was forced to end the match.
Following their win at SummerSlam, the couple known as “Glamarella” are decked out in championship gold, with Santino
Marella holding the Intercontinental Title and Beth Phoenix wearing the WWE Women’s Title around her waist. Santino was
unable to continue his winning streak however, as he lost to D-Lo Brown by disqualification when The Glamazon interfered
in the match, brazenly slapping D-Lo in the center of the ring. Afterward, as chaos broke out, former Intercontinental
Champion Kofi Kingston took revenge on Santino for his SummerSlam loss, doling out a beating to the Italian Superstar.
Before the match, in a WWE.com exclusive, Santino and Beth gave their gold acceptance speech.
Though they have both recently suffered defeat at the hands of Beth Phoenix, the team of former Women’s Champion Mickie
James & Kelly Kelly rallied and defeated their opponents, Katie Lea Burchill & Jillian, putting an end to Jillian’s
tone-deaf singing. Also, appearing for the first-time on Raw, Carlito’s little brother, Primo Colon spoke briefly with
Mike Adamle before the GM rudely ran off to speak to John Cena.
MATCHES:
Dave Batista defeated Paul Burchill
Mickie James & Kelly Kelly
defeated
Katie Lea Burchill & Jillian Hall
J.B.L. defeated Jamie Noble
- 2 ON 1 NON TITLE HANDICAP MATCH -
John Cena
defeated
World Tag Team Champions
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
D-Lo Brown
defeated
Intercontinental Champion
Santino Marella
via a disqualification
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Chris Jericho
defeated
World Heavyweight Champion
C.M. Punk
Air Time: 1:59:52
Run Time: 1:45:01
RAW
# 796
8-25-08 LIVE
Wachovia Arena
Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania
For fans of the Chain Gang Commander, Raw carried with it sad news, as General Manager Mike Adamle announced that John
Cena had sustained a herniated disk in his neck and would be out indefinitely, unable to participate in the first-ever
World Heavyweight Championship Scramble at Unforgiven. Adamle did announce a replacement however: Rey Mysterio, who has
been missing in recent months, due to a brutal attack by Kane, if the Big Red Monster’s claims are to be believed.
Attempting to exact revenge on Kane for his actions against the Master of the 619, Mysterio’s friend Batista competed
against the Big Red Monster on Raw. When the two powerful Championship Scramble competitors squared off, the seven-footer
made good on a claim from earlier in the program, when he promised to hurt Batista if The Animal tests him. Kane
introduced a steel chair into the match, causing himself to be disqualified, but neither competitor stopped there,
brutalizing one another with the unforgiving weapon.
Monday night also saw World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk square off against his SummerSlam opponent, JBL. Punk proved his
resiliency by defeating the self-proclaimed “wrestling god,” one of the four men he’ll face in the World Heavyweight
Championship Scramble at Unforgiven.
Only a week after Chris Jericho punched HBK’s wife in the mouth at SummerSlam, Shawn Michaels entered the ring to address
both the first-ever Undisputed Champion and the WWE Universe. Though Jericho wasn’t present, he communicated with HBK over
the TitanTron. Putting aside his injuries and thoughts of retirement, Michaels challenged the unrepentant Superstar to an
Unsanctioned Match at Unforgiven, so that both men and WWE would be absolved of responsibility for what happens in the
match. Bristling, the man formerly known as Y2J, accepted the challenge.
World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase also received Unforgiven opponents on Raw this week. After defeating
Jerry “The King” Lawler & “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, the champions were accosted by Cryme Tyme, who sat comfortably amid the
skybox area, holding the World Tag Team Titles they had stolen one week before. Shad & JTG challenged Rhodes & DiBiase to a
match at Unforgiven that would give Cryme Tyme a chance to make their ownership of the World Tag Team Titles official, as
well as give the champions an opportunity to win back their physical titles. Promising to beat WWE’s Robbin’ Hoods, their
multi-generational rivals eagerly accepted the Unforgiven match.
One-half of “Glamarella,” Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix faced off against Kelly Kelly on Raw. In spite of The Glamazon’s
size and strength advantage, Kelly Kelly managed to actually pin Beth while she was distracted by her beau,
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella. Afterward, Santino tasted Phoenix’s full fury as Beth attacked and chased the
Italian Superstar from the ring.
In a rematch for the Intercontinental Title, Santino defended his gold against Kofi Kingston. Afterward, Beth entered the
ring, appearing to be angry at the Italian Superstar. The Glamazon’s heart melted, however, as she and Santino reconciled
in the ring, with a pair of passionate kisses.
Making his in-ring debut on Raw was Primo Colon, the younger brother of Carlito. Early in the evening, he spoke with
Adamle briefly, explaining to the GM that he doesn’t much care for his sibling, believing himself to be his own man, and
better than the “cool” Carlito. This rivalry was echoed during Primo’s match, where he competed against Charlie Haas, who
had been dressed up to look like Carlito. Despite this unorthodox trick, Primo defeated “Charlito,” making his first Raw
match a successful one.
MATCHES:
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion C.M. Punk
defeated
J.B.L.
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Kelly Kelly
defeated
WWE Women's Champion Beth Phoenix
Primo Colon
defeated
"Charlito" aka: Charlie Haas
in his debut match
World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase
defeated
"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan & Jerry "The King" Lawler
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella
defeated
Kofi Kingston
retaining the title
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Dave "The Animal" Batista
defeated
ECW Champion "The Big Red Machine" Kane
via a disqualification
Air Time: 2:03:25
Run Time: 1:49:31
RAW
# 797
9-1-08 Taped 8-31-08
Scottrade Center
St. Louis, Missouri
Less than a week before Unforgiven, the participants of the World Heavyweight Championship and ECW Championship Scrambles
faced off in over-the-top-rope Battle Royals. In addition, Raw was the site of several shocking returns, including Randy
Orton, Candice Michelle and the high-flying Rey Mysterio.
At the beginning of the night, the still-injured Randy Orton appeared in his hometown to belittle Raw’s champions, drawing
World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk out to the ring. After their exchange, two of Punk’s Championship Scramble opponents,
Kane and JBL, made their presence known, boasting of their chances at Unforgiven. They were interrupted by another Scramble
competitor, however, when Batista made his way to the ring, gunning for the Big Red Monster, who had brutalized The Animal’s
friend, Rey Mysterio. Afterward, he turned his attack on the Straightedge Champion and the self-proclaimed “wrestling god,”
spearing them both.
In his address at the beginning of the night, Randy Orton also took aim at World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted
DiBiase, saying that a better name for the “priceless” Superstars would be “worthless,” since they allowed two “thugs” to
steal their titles. Later, in the locker room area, the champions confronted the Legend Killer, who slapped Rhodes and
encouraged both young Superstars to take some action and “grow a set.”
THIS SEGMENT MISSING
When John Cena’s entrance music played in St. Louis, the crowd’s response was one of surprise and excitement, since the
former WWE Champion had just undergone successful emergency surgery for a herniated disk in his neck. They were even more
surprised when they saw who was wearing Cena’s signature gear: Charlie Haas. Though the former WWE Tag Team Champion
continued his trend of dressing up like other Superstars, Cena’s moves and appearance weren’t enough for him to defeat the
Jamaican Superstar, Kofi Kingston.
As part of a cooperative effort between Raw General Manager Mike Adamle and ECW GM Teddy Long, ECW Champion Mark Henry and
his four Championship Scramble opponents also competed against one another in a Battle Royal. The World’s Strongest Champion
showed why he deserves to have the coveted title around his waist as he eliminated Chavo Guerrero, The Miz, Finlay and Matt
Hardy, to victory.
As Layla looked on, Jamie Noble competed against William Regal. Though the 2008 King of the Ring was in brutal form, Noble
shocked and impressed the beautiful Diva at ringside by rolling Regal up for the pin.
Though Orton is still recovering from his injuries, former Women’s Champion Candice Michelle appeared on Raw fully healed
and ready to go. The returning Diva worked together with Mickie James & Kelly Kelly to take on the team of Women’s Champion
Beth Phoenix, Jillian & Katie Lea Burchill. In spite of The Glamazon’s boasts about her strength and power, Candice led her
team to victory by pinning Phoenix, the woman who injured her months ago.
Though one half of “Glamarella” had difficulties securing a win on Raw, Beth Phoenix’s beau, Intercontinental Champion
Santino Marella tasted victory in a match against D-Lo Brown, as he commenced the countdown to breaking Honky Tonk Man’s
record for longest Intercontinental Title reign, with only 62 weeks to go.
Cryme Tyme and The Miz & John Morrison prepared to face one another in a tag team match – a result of the rivalry seen on
their programs on WWE.com: “Word Up” and “The Dirt Sheet.” Before the four Superstars could even make it into the ring,
World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase took Orton’s advice, brutally attacking Cryme Tyme and taking back their
stolen titles.
THIS SEGMENT MISSING
The participants of the World Heavyweight Championship Scramble faced off in a Battle Royal meant to feature all five competitors, but Rey Mysterio was still missing. Though
Punk performed well, eliminating Batista and JBL, the ferocity of Kane was too much for the World Heavyweight Champion.
After Punk was thrown from the ring, he had another confrontation with Randy Orton, dousing the Legend Killer with water.
Meanwhile, Kane’s victory was interrupted by Rey Mysterio’s familiar entrance music, as the Master of the 619 ran straight
for the ring and dismantled the Big Red Machine.
In the ring together for the first time since Chris Jericho inadvertently punched Shawn Michaels’ wife, the two Superstars
met to sign the contract waiving personal liability for whatever might happen in their Unsanctioned Match at Unforgiven.
HBK and the first-ever Undisputed Champion shared harsh words, promising to do heinous things to one another on Sunday
night. Hoping to get the jump on his former teacher, Lance Cade rushed the ring, but was caught by the ever-alert Michaels,
who proceeded to viciously batter Jericho’s protégé. HBK’s assault was so aggressive and intense that he severely injured
his arm, jeopardizing his match at Unforgiven.
MATCHES:
THIS MATCH MISSING
Kofi Kingston defeated Charlie Haas
- ECW CHAMPIONSHIP PRE-SCRAMBLE BATTLE ROYAL -
( NON TITLE )
ECW Champion Mark Henry
defeated
Matt Hardy, Fit Finlay,
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & Chavo Guerrero
Jamie Noble defeated William Regal
- SIX DIVA TAG TEAM MATCH -
Candice Michelle, Mickie James & Kelly Kelly
defeated
WWE Women's Champion Beth Phoenix, Jillian & Katie Lea Burchill
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella
defeated
D-Lo Brown
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
vs
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrison
ended in a noncontest
THIS MATCH MISSING
- WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP PRE-SCRAMBLE BATTLE ROYAL -
( NON TITLE )
Kane
defeated
World Heavyweight Champion C.M. Punk,
Dave "The Animal" Batista & J.B.L.
Air Time: 2:05:45
Run Time: 1:24:45
Missing: 41:00
RAW
# 798
9-8-08 LIVE
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Raw General Manager Mike Adamle announced that next week on Raw, World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho will defend his
title against CM Punk in a Steel Cage Match. He also stated that tonight Jericho will be facing Batista.
Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix defeated Mickie James to retain her title, and will go on to defend it against Candice
Michelle at No Mercy.
William Regal defeated Jamie Noble. Afterward, the object of Noble’s affection, Layla, left ringside with her fellow UK
native, Regal.
"C.H.L." aka: Charlie Haas dressed up as J.B.L. and defeated the real Longhorn Loudmouth by count-out, when the
self-proclaimed “wrestling god” got offended and left the ring.
As part of the Raw-ECW talent exchange, Rey Mysterio & Evan Bourne defeated The Miz & John Morrison. Afterward, Kane
appeared on the TitanTron, declaring that the Ultimate Underdog is still his victim, and they’ll be facing one another
next week. He then pulled out his old mask and laughed maniacally.
World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase and Manu interrupted Randy Orton and told the Legend Killer that they
deserved his respect. As a response, Orton slapped DiBiase.
World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase and Manu defeated Cryme Tyme & Kofi Kingston.
With Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix in his corner, Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella defeated Snitsky.
GM Adamle interrupted the Batista vs Jericho main event to make the contest a 2-on-1 Handicap Match, with JBL joining the
World Heavyweight Champion against The Animal. With help from a distraction by Lance Cade, Jericho pinned Batista for the
win. Afterward, JBL and Cade assaulted Batista, but The Animal fought back as Jericho looked on from the ramp.
MATCHES:
" WOMEN`S CHAMPIONSHIP "
Beth Phoenix
defeated
Mickie James
retaining the title
William Regal defeated Jamie Noble
"C.H.L." aka: Charlie Haas
(imitating J.B.L.)
defeated
James "Bradshaw" Layfield
via a count out
Rey Mysterio & Evan Bourne
defeated
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrison
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Tag Team Champions
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase Jr.
with
Manu
defeated
"Cryme Tyme"
Shad & J.T.G.
with
Kofi Kingston
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Intercontinental Champion
Santino Marella
defeated
Gene Snitsky
- 2 ON 1 HANDICAP MATCH -
( NON TITLE MATCH )
World Heavyweight Champion
Chris Jericho
&
James "Bradshaw" Layfield
defeated
Dave "The Animal" Batista
Air Time: 2:03:21
Run Time: 1:47:56
RAW
# 799
9-15-08 LIVE
FedEx Forum
Memphis, Tennessee
On Raw, World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho successfully defended his title, but as announced Monday night, the
biggest challenges to his reign are still ahead. First, a World Heavyweight Championship Ladder Match at No Mercy against
the champion’s nemesis, Shawn Michaels. And if Jericho is able to defeat the man who revolutionized the Ladder Match,
he’ll be forced to face the winner of Batista and JBL’s No Mercy match at the next pay-per-view.
The night’s first match was an eagerly anticipated Steel Cage Match between CM Punk and World Heavyweight Champion Chris
Jericho, which saw the Straightedge Superstar attempt to win back the title he was unable to defend at Unforgiven. The
punt in the head that Punk received from Randy Orton a week ago proved to be too much to overcome, however, as Jericho
escaped the steel cage, once again slipping away with the title. By the end of the show, however, Jericho’s smile had
turned upside down. Just after Raw General Manager Mike Adamle agreed with the champion’s suggestion that Batista and JBL
face one another at No Mercy in a No. 1 Contender’s Match, he announced that Jericho would still be defending his title at
the event. To the shock and horror of the World Heavyweight Champion, Shawn Michaels emerged, identifying himself as
Jericho’s opponent. After having a ladder brought out, HBK mounted it and declared that they would be facing each other in
a contest made famous by The Showstopper: A Ladder Match.
Earlier in the night, JBL handily defeated Tommy Dreamer as part of the ongoing Raw-ECW talent exchange. Afterward, the
Longhorn Loudmouth refused to leave the ring until Adamle named him No. 1 contender to Jericho’s World Heavyweight Title.
Proving the adage that birds of a feather flock together, JBL was soon joined by both the injured Randy Orton and
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella, accompanied by Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix. Marella claimed to be the right
choice to challenge Jericho and Orton stated his intention to win the World Heavyweight Championship once he’s cleared to
compete, but both were interrupted by Batista’s entrance music. The Animal came to the ring, offering to beat all of the
assembled Superstars in order to get his hands on the coveted gold. Attempting to diffuse the situation, Adamle made his
entrance, explaining that a decision on the No. 1 contender would be made later in the evening. Adamle’s attempts to calm
things down were ultimately futile, however, as a brawl broke out, ending with Batista laying out both halves of
“Glamarella.” Later in the evening, Adamle made good on his word, agreeing with Chris Jericho’s suggestion that Batista
and JBL face one another at No Mercy to determine the rightful No. 1 contender.
Just prior to Adamle’s dual No Mercy announcements, in the night’s main event, Rey Mysterio faced the maniacal Kane, who
had addressed the WWE Universe earlier wearing his old mask. Though the Master of the 619 won the match by a
disqualification, the Big Red Monster paid the bell no heed, attempting to pull off Mysterio’s mask. Before Kane could
dishonor the luchador, however, the Ultimate Underdog’s tag team partner from the previous week and fellow high-flyer,
Evan Bourne, rushed the ring, and assisted Mysterio in chopping the 7-footer down to size.
Continuing to prove that they have not only some of the most impressive bloodlines in the WWE locker room, but also the
skills to back them up, the team of World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase and Manu faced off against Kofi
Kingston, Jerry “The King” Lawler and Good Ol’ J.H., who was really Charlie Haas disguised as SmackDown’s Jim Ross.
Rhodes, DiBiase & Manu went on to defeat their opponents, perhaps in a show of force to Randy Orton, who they shared a
cold glance with prior to their match.
In just her second match since her return to sports-entertainment, Candice Michelle faced Jillian as her No Mercy
opponent, Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix looked on from ringside. After Candice defeated the tone-deaf songstress, The
Glamazon attempted to enter the ring, but was denied by a drop-kick from Candice.
Attempting to soothe his broken heart after Layla ditched him for William Regal, Jamie Noble defeated Paul Burchill in
their match on Raw. Afterward, Layla herself came out, and told Noble that she was sorry for not getting rid of him
sooner. To add insult to injury, Layla was then joined by her fellow UK-native, and the two left arm-in-arm.
Also appearing on Raw for the first time was Dolph Ziggler, who introduced himself to Mike Adamle, Chris Jericho and Lance
Cade.
MATCHES:
" WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP "
( STEEL CAGE MATCH )
Chris Jericho
defeated
C.M. Punk
retaining the title
Candice Michelle defeated Jillian Hall
J.B.L. defeated Tommy Dreamer
Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase Jr. & Manu
defeated
Kofi Kingston, Jerry “The King” Lawler
&
"Good Ol’ J.H." aka: Charlie Haas impersonating Jim Ross
Jamie Noble defeated Paul Burchill
Rey Mysterio defeated Kane
via a disqualification
Air Time: 2:09:26
Run Time: 1:54:12
RAW
# 800
9-22-08 LIVE
U.S. Bank Arena
Cincinnati, Ohio
Since July, General Manager Mike Adamle has been allowed to run Raw as he sees fit, but on Monday night, on Raw’s historic
800th episode, Shane McMahon made a surprise appearance, reversing Adamle’s decision to suspend C.M. Punk and setting both
the tone for the night and its main event: World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho & JBL vs. Shawn Michaels & Batista.
While many Superstars are focused on No Mercy, some still have their minds set on Unforgiven. C.M. Punk had some words to
share with Randy Orton because of the punt to the head he received courtesy of the Legend Killer, which ultimately caused
him to lose the World Heavyweight Championship at Unforgiven. Despite the third-generation Superstar’s warning that anyone
who touches him will be suspended by Mike Adamle’s decree, Punk hit the smug Orton anyway. Before the GM could suspend him
though, Shane McMahon – the fourth-generation Superstar – “pulled rank” and reversed Adamle’s decision, then set a match
between C.M. Punk and World Tag Team Champion Cody Rhodes.
Punk was victorious in the match-up, but directly afterward, Rhodes’ second-generation allies, fellow World Tag Team
Champion Ted DiBiase and Manu, rushed the ring with ill intent. Before much damage could be done however, Kofi Kingston
joined the fray, and helped Punk chase their adversaries from the ring.
Though he was still nursing an injured face and bruised pride after his confrontation with Batista last week,
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella went on to defeat Deuce, continuing his not-yet-impressive five-week run holding
the title. Before the match, however, Batista caught the Italian champion and his ladyfriend, Women’s Champion Beth
Phoenix, talking bad about him. Their loose lips would come back to haunt them later in the night.
Though Kane was already scheduled to face off against ECW’s Evan Bourne, that wasn’t enough for him, as he approached GM
Adamle, stating that he also wanted to face Rey Mysterio, who had been aided by Bourne in past weeks to cut the Big Red
Monster down to size. With Shane McMahon looking on, Adamle granted the 7-footer’s request, setting Rey Mysterio vs. Kane
as another one of the scintillating matches at No Mercy. Though “Air” Bourne’s high-flying maneuvers had taken out Kane in
the past, this week they just weren’t enough. The Big Red Monster defeated the ECW Superstar, and continued to beat on him
even after the bell rang. Kane’s No Mercy opponent, Rey Mysterio rushed to the ring to help Bourne, but even the Master of
the 619 couldn’t put a stop to the Big Red Monster’s rampage.
Kelly Kelly scored a pin over the Women’s Champion’s Beth Phoenix due to a botched distraction from Santino.
Looking to exact revenge, the combined “Glamarella” were about to brutalize Kelly after the match when Batista himself ran
in, spearing the Intercontinental Champion and defending the Diva.
In one of Raw’s two tag team match-ups, Cryme Tyme squared off against former WWE Tag Team Champions The Miz & John
Morrison. The contest was a result of the two teams taking shots at one another in their WWE.com Exclusive web-shows:
Cryme Tyme’s “Word Up” and “The Dirt Sheet” with Miz & Morrison. Though Shad & JTG had hoped to shut up the arrogant ECW
Superstars, it was the Shaman of Sexy & the self-proclaimed “chick magnet” who stood tall, picking up the win.
Continuing his habit of impersonating other WWE Superstars, Charlie Haas took the opportunity to pay tribute to one of his
heroes, WWE Hall of Famer Mr. Perfect. In an attempt to replicate some of Curt Hennig’s famous athletic feats, Haas
disguised himself as Mr. Perfect and played basketball, shot pool, danced, boxed and played air hockey, all very poorly.
Jericho convinced Mike Adamle to exercise his authority and change the
match set by Shane McMahon. The GM added the World Heavyweight Champion’s protégé, Lance Cade, as a third member of
Jericho & J.B.L.’s team, tilting things in their favor. Though Michaels is known for fighting back against incredible odds, it
was just too much for him, as his former student, Cade, pinned him, winning the match.
MATCHES:
C.M. Punk
defeated
World Tag Team Champion
Cody Rhodes
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Intercontinental Champion
Santino Marella
defeated
Deuce
Kane defeated Evan Bourne
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Kelly Kelly
defeated
Women's Champion
"The Glamazon" Beth Phoenix
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrizon
defeated
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
" THE PERFECT TRIBUTE "
Charlie Haas poorly impersonated
"Mr. Perfect" Curt Hennig
promoting the new DVD release of
"The Life and Times of Mr. Perfect"
- 3 ON 2 HANDICAP MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion
Chris Jericho, J.B.L. & Lance Cade
defeated
Dave "The Aniaml" Bartista & "H.B.K." Shawn Michaels
Air Time: 2:06:57
Run Time: 1:49:41
RAW
# 801
9-29-08 LIVE
Target Center
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Batista defeated Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella with a Batista Bomb in a non-title match; JBL ran in and took
out Batista with the Clothesline from Hell. Marella again used the Honk-A-Meter to display his progress in beating the
Honky Tonk Man’s record Intercontinental Title reign, and also brought out the Brain-Barometer to demonstrate his mental
power’s supposed superiority over Batista. The Animal was all business as he worked over the Italian Superstar, finishing
him off with a Batista Bomb. After Batista pinned the Italian Superstar, Women's Champion Beth Phoenix distracted The
Animal, allowing his No Mercy opponent, JBL, to brutally assault him.
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin with John "Nobody" Morrison defeated J.T.G. with Shad with a Reality Check. Stemming from The Miz &
Morrison’s ongoing WWE.com rivalry with Cryme Tyme, the self-proclaimed “chick magnet” faced off against J.T.G., defeating
the Brooklynite with a distraction courtesy of John Morrison.
Jamie Noble & Mickie James defeated Paul & Katie Lea Burchill when Jamie forced Paul to tap out to an arm bar. Earlier in
the night, Jamie Noble searched for a tag team partner for his match against the Burchill siblings, but was turned down by
Jillian, who went so far as to mock the Superstar with her rendition of Beck’s “Loser.” But her performance was
interrupted by the entrance of Dolph Ziggler, who continued his habit of introducing himself to various Raw Superstars.
Just prior to the match, things got even worse for Noble as the 2008 King of the Ring – and Noble’s rival for Layla’s
affections – William Regal took a seat on the entranceway, with the lovely Diva at his side. Before the bell rang however,
former Women’s Champion Mickie James rushed to the ring, and with her help, Noble was able make Paul Burchill tap out.
Kane, Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase & Manu defeated Rey Mysterio, CM Punk, Kofi Kingston & Evan Bourne when Kane chokeslammed
Kofi. The multi-generational team of the World Tag Team Champions & Manu were joined by the Big Red Monster in their match
against a group of men they all have ill will toward. In spite of Kane’s earlier claim that he would “massacre” Rey
Mysterio, it was Kofi Kingston who felt the wrath of the 7-footer, who trampled over the competition on his way to victory.
Raw General Manager Mike Adamle announced that if Rey Mysterio loses his No Mercy match to Kane then he must remove his
mask; Randy Orton interrupted, but was in turn cut-off by JBL, who was attacked by Batista. Adamle explained to the WWE
Universe that earlier in the evening, he told Kane he would grant a request to him if the Big Red Monster won his match.
Since Kane was indeed victorious, Adamle added a stipulation to the 7-footer’s match against Rey Mysterio: If the Ultimate
Underdog is defeated, he must remove his mask in the middle of the ring. Directly afterward, Adamle was interrupted by
Randy Orton, demanding that the GM re-suspend CM Punk. Before he could finish, however, JBL made his entrance, taking
exception to the Legend Killer’s certainty that he will once again become World Heavyweight Champion. But in an act of
retaliation for earlier in the evening, Batista entered the ring and speared the self-made millionaire.
Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix & Jillian Hall defeated Candice Michelle & Kelly Kelly when The Glamazon pinned Kelly. Though
Beth and Candice will face off one-on-one this Sunday at No Mercy, on Raw, they faced one another in tag team competition.
Taking revenge for her recent defeat at the hands of Kelly Kelly, The Glamazon decimated the Diva, gaining momentum for
her title defense on Sunday.
The Great Charli (Charlie Haas disguised as The Great Khali) defeated Deuce with an aerial maneuver; the real Great Khali
emerged and destroyed Haas. Continuing to impersonate other WWE Superstars, Charlie Haas came to the ring dressed up as the
monstrous Great Khali, even impersonating the Punjabi Giant’s speech with Ranjin Singh as his interpreter. The Great
Charli defeated his opponent, despite Deuce’s history as a former WWE Tag Team Champion. Before he could properly
celebrate, however, the real Punjabi Giant came to the ring, responding to Haas’ greeting with a vicious beating.
Shawn Michaels’ mystery partner revealed as WWE Champion Triple H, HBK & The Game defeated World Heavyweight Champion Chris
Jericho & Lance Cade by disqualification; Triple H and Shawn Michaels attacked Cade with a sledgehammer and a splash from
a ladder. After teasing out the mystery all night, Shawn Michaels revealed the WWE Champion as his tag team partner in a
mini DX reunion. In spite of having Triple H by his side, Shawn Michaels was double-teamed by Jericho and Cade, leading the
World Heavyweight Champion and his protege being disqualified. Afterward, The Game came back into the ring, attacking Cade
with a sledgehammer and setting him up for HBK's splash from atop a ladder.
MATCHES:
- NON TITLE MATCH -
Dave "The Animal" Batista
defeated
Intercontinental Champion
Santino Marella
"The Miz"defeated J.T.G.
- INTERGENDER MATCH -
Jamie Noble & Mickie James
defeated
Paul & Katie Lea Burchill
- EIGHT MAN TAG TEAM MATCH -
Kane, Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase Jr. & Manu
defeated
Rey Mysterio, C.M. Punk, Kofi Kingston & Evan Bourne
- DIVAS TAG TEAM MATCH -
Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix & Jillian Hall
defeated
Candice Michelle & Kelly Kelly
"The Great Charli"
aka: Charlie Haas
disguised as The Great Khali
defeated
Deuce
WWE Champion Triple H & Shawn Michaels
defeated
World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho & Lance Cade
via a disqualification
Air Time: 2:09:15
Run Time: 1:51:30
RAW
# 802
10-6-08 LIVE
Key Arena
Seattle, Washington
World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho opened Raw, announcing that he would be running the
show while General Manager Mike Adamle was in a meeting with WWE Executive Vice Presidents Shane and Stephanie McMahon.
Taking advantage of his role, Jericho placed Shawn Michaels in a No Disqualification Match against Lance Cade. Soon after
doing so, he was interrupted by No. 1 contender Batista, ready to face him for the title that very night. Jericho refused
and insulted The Animal, who responded by hitting the World Heavyweight Champion with a spinebuster. After Jericho
recovered, he set a No Mercy rematch between Batista and JBL, with The Animal’s No. 1 contendership on the line, and the
World Heavyweight Champion himself acting as referee.
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella & Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix defeated Jamie Noble & Mickie James when Santino
rolled up Noble after a distraction from The Glamazon; Noble attacked William Regal at ringside. Prior to the match, 2008
King of the Ring William Regal came to the announce table with Layla to observe the Mixed Tag Team Match. Intercontinental
Champion Santino Marella and his partner in “Glamarella” emerged next, and the Italian Superstar continued to use the
Honk-A-Meter to brag about his Intercontinental Title streak – currently at all of seven weeks. In spite of Mickie and
Jamie Noble’s valiant efforts, Glamarella dominated the match, but Noble managed to take out his frustrations afterward by
attacking Regal, who had recently stolen away the lovely Layla, in spite of Noble’s attempts to woo her.
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella will defend his title at Cyber Sunday. Jerry Lawler announced that Santino
Marella will be defending his Intercontinental Title at Cyber Sunday, but that his opponent would be chosen by you, the
WWE Universe. The options include WWE Hall of Famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, Goldust, and the man whose record title-reign the
Italian Champion is attempting to beat, Honky Tonk Man, all former Intercontinental Champions.
World Tag Team Champion Ted DiBiase defeated Kofi Kingston with a Russian Leg Sweep after Cody Rhodes distracted the
Jamaican Superstar. As usual, World Tag Team Champion Ted DiBiase came to the ring with fellow multi-generational
Superstars, World Tag Team Champion Cody Rhodes & Manu. DiBiase’s opponent, Kofi Kingston, wasn’t without support either,
as he was joined by CM Punk. Unfortunately, even with the former World Heavyweight Champion at ringside, the “Priceless”
third-generation Superstars were too much for Kingston.
Kane & Mark Henry defeated Rey Mysterio & ECW Champion Matt Hardy when the Big Red Monster chokeslammed Hardy. All four of
these Superstars had hard-fought matches at No Mercy, only 24-hours prior to their tag-match tonight. Rey Mysterio in
particular was still suffering from his match against Kane, in which he was clubbed with a steel chair while attempting an
aerial maneuver. The Big Red Monster again showed how vicious he could be, as he chokeslammed the ECW Champion to win the
match.
Shawn Michaels defeated Lance Cade with a flurry of shots from a steel chair. Shawn Michaels came to the ring for his No
Disqualification Match against Lance Cade suffering both physically and emotionally. Not only was the World Heavyweight
Championship Ladder Match at No Mercy one of the most brutal of his entire career, but he only narrowly lost the title,
due to interference from Lance Cade. HBK’s former student, battling without Jericho at his side, reaped what he sowed on
Raw though, as Michaels took revenge and battered Cade relentlessly with a steel chair.
The Great Khali hosts The Kiss Cam and calls out Johnny Knoxville. After showing a clip in which “Jackass” star Johnny
Knoxville angered The Great Khali during an interview, causing him to walk out, the Punjabi Giant hosted The Kiss Cam to
show that he knows how to have fun. Khali then used the segment as an excuse to steal a kiss from Lilian Garcia, and
invited Knoxville to Raw, so that he can learn the “true meaning of entertainment.”
Kelly Kelly defeated Jillian; Cryme Tyme and The Miz & John Morrison argued at ringside. After The Miz & John Morrison took
their place at the announce table, Jillian came out to the ring and attempted to serenade the audience with “Smells Like
Teen Spirit” by Seattle’s own Nirvana. Before she could finish, however, she was interrupted by the entrance of Kelly
Kelly, accompanied by Cryme Tyme, who also made their way to the announce table. Kelly continued to show off her in-ring
abilities as she competed against the tone-deaf songstress. During the match, an argument broke out between Cryme Tyme and
Miz & Morrison, spilling over from the rivalry seen in their WWE.com video series. As the two tag teams bickered, Kelly
pinned Jillian for the win.
Batista defeated J.B.L. with a Batista Bomb, retaining his No. 1 contender status; the match had World Heavyweight Champion Chris
Jericho as referee, William Regal as timekeeper and Randy Orton as commentator. Batista will face Chris Jericho for the
World Heavyweight Championship at Cyber Sunday with a special guest referee. Before the night’s main event even began,
World Heavyweight Champion and self-appointed referee Chris Jericho made a couple of changes to the match. Hoping to stack
the deck against Batista, he brought out William Regal as a special timekeeper and Randy Orton as a guest commentator.
Despite being surrounded by enemies, The Animal fought back, and was able to defeat JBL when Raw General Manager Adamle
emerged with a second official. Following Batista’s victory, Adamle set another match for Cyber Sunday: Batista vs. Chris
Jericho for the World Heavyweight Championship with a special guest referee. The WWE Universe will choose between Randy
Orton, Shawn Michaels and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.
MATCHES:
- MIXED TAG TEAM MATCH -
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella
&
Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix
defeated
Jamie Noble & Mickie James
World Tag Team Champion Ted DiBiase Jr.
defeated
Kofi Kingston
Kane & Mark Henry
defeated
Rey Mysterio & ECW Champion Matt Hardy
- NO DISQUALIFICATON MATCH -
Shawn Michaels
defeated
Lance Cade
Kelly Kelly
defeated
Jillian Hall
- WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP #1 CONTENDER MATCH -
Dave "The Animal" Batista
defeated
John "Bradshaw" Layfield
Air Time: 2:05:00
Run Time: 1:47:19
RAW
# 803
10-13-08 LIVE
Honda Center
Anaheim, California
Stars in the WWE Universe were out in force Monday Night as Raw came to life inside the confines of the Honda Center. With
just two weeks until Cyber Sunday, celebrities, including Nancy O'Dell and Johnny Knoxville, showed up to catch all the
WWE action on a night that would prove as overwhelming as any Hollywood blockbuster.
World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho appeared livid as he kicked off Monday Night Raw. He complained about the WWE
Universe being able to vote Randy Orton, Shawn Michaels or “Stone Cold” Steve Austin as the special referee in his match
against Batista at Cyber Sunday. As he pleaded directly to Stephanie and Shane McMahon, Michaels came out to confront him.
Heated words and punches were exchanged before Jericho scurried outside of the ring and informed his rival, per GM Adamle,
that he will choose Batista’s opponent that night, and that opponent will be Shawn Michaels.
In the weeks leading up to their clash at Cyber Sunday, Rey Mysterio and Kane met in the ring again tonight, joined by tag
partners ECW Champion Matt Hardy and Mark Henry respectively. Kane caught Mysterio and pinned him for the win. The Big Red
Monster then continued to kick the Master of the 619 in the ribs, until Mysterio popped up and threw Kane some offense of
his own. The tag team match, however, will not be on the menu for Cyber Sunday when Kane faces off against Mysterio. In
fact, the WWE Universe has three different match types from which to choose, including Falls Count Anywhere, No Holds
Barred and a 2-out-of-3 Falls. Don’t forget to vote!
In his latest Superstar incarnation, Charlie Haas strutted down the entrance ramp as Hulk Hogan to battle JBL. Despite the
ravaged economy, the millionaire investor was focused enough to punish Haas before laying him out with his trademark
Clothesline from Hell.
At Chris Jericho’s choosing, Batista was forced to take on Shawn Michaels in a Lumberjack Match. Before the bout got
underway, lumberjacks surrounded the ring, Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase, Manu, Snitsky, JBL, Deuce, William Regal, Chavo
Guerrero, Bam Neely and Mark Henry among them. As the match progressed, lumberjacks began to interfere with both The
Animal and HBK, but the combatants weren’t having it. Instead of fighting each other, they trained their ire on the
meddling lumberjacks until it was only Batista and Michaels who stood tall in the ring. The two even showed mutual respect
with a handshake. Needless to say, Jericho was furious.
Showcasing the Honk-A-Meter in the run up to Cyber Sunday, Santino Marella, with his girlfriend Beth Phoenix by his side,
told the crowd that in one year he will only be one week away from beating the Honky Tonk Man’s record for longest
Intercontinental Championship reign at 64 weeks. Marella then invited WWE enthusiast and Jackass ringleader Johnny
Knoxville into the ring. A reluctant Knoxville climbed into the ring and proceeded to insult Phoenix, who promptly slammed
Knoxville to the mat. An opportunistic Hornswoggle, no doubt offended by earlier comments Knoxville made about “midgets”,
climbed from under the ring and Tadpole Splashed him. Events got ever stranger when Knoxville’s Jackass cohort Chris
Pontius came to his friend’s aid. As he did, Big Dick Johnson entered the ring, and he and Pontius battled in a near-naked
dance-off. During the dance-off, Boogeyman made an appearance, causing Johnson to flee as Pontius looked on. Boogeyman
wasted no time laying Pontius out and giving him the “worm treatment.” Before the surreal scene was finished, however, The
Great Khali made an appearance and punished Knoxville, slamming him with the Khali Vise Grip.
The battle of the WWE.com Video Originals continued Monday night when Kelly Kelly & the “Word Up” boyz took on Jillian and
the “Dirt Sheet” duo. Before the match, The Miz & John Morrison “entertained” the crowd with a rap dissing their opponents
before eventually being stopped by Jillian, who tried to join in. But it was Shad who got the last diss inside the ring
when he pinned Morrison after a little interference from JTG.
After tackling the challenge of Shawn Michaels in a Lumberjack Match, it was Batista’s turn to make his Cyber Sunday
opponent sweat a little. Per GM Adamle’s orders, The Animal chose the World Heavyweight Champion’s opponent for the night,
and he chose the former World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk. Jericho pouted at the announcement, but then Lilian dropped
the bad news. Batista also chose a special guest referee for the match: The Animal himself. During the bout, Batista had
fun with his Cyber Sunday rival, taunting him with slow counts and pointing at his ref shirt as a defense. In the end, a
frustrated Jericho went down in defeat when The Animal dropped a Batista Bomb on him and Punk quickly covered. The loss
undoubtedly serves to fuel the current World Heavyweight Champion as he trains his sights on defending his title against
The Animal at Cyber Sunday.
MATCHES:
Kane & Mark Henry
defeated
Rey Mysterio & Matt Hardy
John "Bradshaw" Layfield
defeated
"Haasamania" Haas Hogan aka: Charlie Haas
- LUMBERJACK MATCH -
Dave "The Animal" Batista vs Shawn Michaels
ended in a no contest
Johnny Knoxville’s cohort Chris Pontius and
Big Dick Johnson battle in a near-naked dance-off.
The Great Khali makes an appearance and
punishes Johnny Knoxville with the "Khali Vise Grip"
- SIX PERSON TAG TEAM MATCH -
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
with Kelly Kelly
defeated
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrison
with Jillian Hall
- NON TITLE -
C.M. Punk defeated Chris Jericho
Air Time: 2:05:31
Run Time: 1:48:14
RAW
# 804
10-20-08 LIVE
American Bank Center
Corpus Christi, Texas
With less than a week to go before Cyber Sunday, Monday Night Raw came roaring into the Lone Star State, with WWE
Superstars battling it out leading up to the one day of the year where you, our fans of the WWE Universe, are in control.
Before they face off on Sunday with a referee of the WWE Universe’s choosing, the two ring warriors with the most at
stake, World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho and No. 1 contender Batista, were forced to run the gauntlet, facing the
same three opponents in another Adamle Original.
Jillian attempted to open Raw in a rather painful manner, with her excruciating rendition of Willie Nelson’s “Mama, Don’t
Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys.” Luckily, Jillian & Katie Lea Burchill’s opponents for the night, Kelly Kelly &
Candice Michelle, were standing by to rescue the WWE Universe from the tone-deaf songstress’ screeching. Kelly interrupted
Jillian’s solo, and even went on to pin the Diva for the win.
World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho came to the Raw ring with his characteristic cockiness and demanded that the WWE
Universe give him the respect he believes he deserves for winning the first-ever World Heavyweight Championship Scramble
as well as his recent defenses of his title. He was interrupted by his Cyber Sunday opponent, Batista, declaring that
Jericho has to earn respect. Before their confrontation could escalate, however, Raw General Manager Mike Adamle emerged
with an opportunity for both men to gain respect: Another Adamle Original, a Gauntlet Match in which each ring warrior
will face the same three opponents of the GM’s choosing. After receiving the brief explanation, the World Heavyweight
Champion slapped Batista before retreating to the locker room area.
Continuing his string of Superstar impersonations in the Texas Rattlesnake’s home state, Charlie Haas interrupted JBL’s
pompous rantings dressed as “Stone Cold” Steve Austin himself. Haas-tin paid homage to Stone Cold’s legendary mic skills
and promptly began his slobberknocker of a match against the self-made millionaire. JBL was able to turn things around,
however, defeating the disguised Haas.
Though he will be facing Kane at Cyber Sunday in a match type of the WWE Universe’s choosing, Rey Mysterio faced another
monstrous Superstar, Snitsky. In spite of some vicious pre-match threats from the yellow-toothed ogre, Mysterio proved why
he is the Biggest Little Man in WWE, cutting Snitsky down to size.
Both CM Punk & Kofi Kingston and ECW’s The Miz & John Morrison had a chance on Raw to show the WWE Universe why they
should be the ones to compete in the Pick the Tag Team Match at Cyber Sunday. It was the self-proclaimed “chick magnet”
and the Shaman of Sexy that proved themselves, however as The Miz managed to pin former World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk.
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella came out to the ring accompanied as usual by Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix, but
the Italian Superstar was oddly attired in a mix of clothing representative of the three former Intercontinental Champions
he could potentially face at Cyber Sunday: “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, Goldust and Honky Tonk Man. After degrading the three ring
legends, Marella was interrupted by the fan-favorite entrance of “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, incensed by the Intercontinental
Champion’s lack of respect. After Duggan suggested that the Italian Superstar wouldn’t have his title if not for his
boyfriend, Beth Phoenix, Marella clobbered him in the head with the guitar he brought to the ring in imitation of Honky
Tonk Man.
Though World Tag Team Champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase and Cryme Tyme both have a chance to compete in the Pick the Tag
Team Match at Cyber Sunday, they were set to battle one another on Raw. Before the match could even begin, however, the
champions, along with fellow second-generation Superstar Manu, assaulted their opponents. They proceeded to brutalize Shad
& JTG, after which Manu raised Rhodes & DiBiase’s hands in a show of their ruthless strength and ability.
For the first time ever, World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho and Batista were forced to take turns competing against
the same three impressive athletes in a Gauntlet Match as the other ring warrior stood in the opposite corner. The Animal
was the first one up, defeating the Brawling Brit, William Regal. Not letting the No. 1 contender show him up, Jericho
defeated a weakened Regal, and competed first in the next round. The next challenger was a decidedly larger one: former
ECW Champion Mark Henry. Chris Jericho hit the World’s Strongest Man with his title, losing the match by disqualification.
While Henry recovered from the blow, Batista took advantage, pinning the behemoth. The third and final hurdle in the
Gauntlet Match was none other than the Big Red Monster, Kane. After an impressive performance, Jericho was overpowered by
the Big Red Monster. But Batista quickly stepped in, defeating the 7-footer, and boasting to the battered World Heavyweight
Champion, just days before their match at Cyber Sunday, where the WWE Universe will decide who will officiate the contest.
MATCHES:
Kelly Kelly & Candice Michelle
defeated
Jillian Hall & Katie Lea Burchill
John Bradshaw Layfield
defeated
“Stone Cold” Steve "Haastin"
aka: Charlie Haas
Rey Mysterio defeated Gene Snitsky
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrison
defeated
C.M. Punk & Kofi Kingston
Santino Marella hits "Hacksaw Jim Duggan with a guitar
- NON TITLE MATCH -
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
vs
World Tag Team Champions
Cody Rhodes & Ted Dibiasi Jr.
ended in a no contest
- 3 STAGE GAUNTLET MATCH -
( STAGE 1 )
Dave "The Animal" Batista defeated William Regal
Chris Jericho defeated William Regal
( STAGE 2 )
Mark Henry defeated Chris Jericho
Dave "The Animal" Batista defeated Mark Henry
( STAGE 3 )
Kane defeated Chris Jericho
Dave "The Aniaml" Batista defeated Kane
resulting in Batista winning the Gauntlet match
Air Time: 2:05:00
Run Time: 1:50:19
RAW
# 805
10-27-08 LIVE
Tucson Convention Center
Tucson, Arizona
Raw stormed into the desert of Arizona with new World Heavyweight Champion Batista. Big events were set in motion for the
celebration of Raw’s historic 800th episode the following week, including a Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight
Title between champion Batista and Chris Jericho, and the first-ever confrontation between D-Generation X and The Miz &
John Morrison.
Former World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho came to the ring, furious at his Cyber Sunday loss to Batista, and blamed
his losing the match on not only The Animal and special guest referee “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, but also Shawn Michaels,
Mike Adamle and especially the WWE Universe. After Jericho invoked his rematch clause for a match against World Heavyweight
Champion Batista the following week on the celebration of Raw’s 800 episodes, General Manager Mike Adamle emerged to grant
the jilted former champion his request, making the contest a Steel Cage Match. As Jericho stormed out, another bitter
Superstar confronted Adamle, the convalescing Randy Orton. The night before, Adamle had sent the Legend Killer to the ring
to act as an emergency referee, an action that resulted in Orton receiving a Stone Cold Stunner. He also blamed Adamle for
his misfortune and went on to demand that Shane and Stephanie McMahon fire the GM, or else he will walk. Orton stepped
over boundaries when he insulted Adamle’s family, however, causing the furious family man to strike the Legend Killer.
Though the WWE Universe didn’t vote for CM Punk & Kofi Kingston to compete for the World Tag Team Titles at Cyber Sunday,
they had an opportunity to seize gold the night after on Raw as they took on champions Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase. Even
with assistance from Manu, however, Rhodes & DiBiase could not stand up to the assault of their opponents, as Punk &
Kingston took revenge on the “priceless” competitors. The former World Heavyweight Champion pinned DiBiase, making himself
and the Jamaican Superstar the new World Tag Team Champions.
The “GlamaHaas” vs. Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella ended in a no-contest when “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, Goldust &
Honky Tonk Man attacked Marella. Before either competitor came to the ring on Monday night, Jerry “The King” Lawler and
Michael Cole were joined at the
announce table by WWE Legends “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, Goldust & Honky Tonk Man, all three of whom were involved in Honky
Tonk’s defeat of Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella at Cyber Sunday. As the trio of former Intercontinental
Champions looked on, Charlie Haas emerged taking a page from Goldust’s book, playing with gender roles, and impersonating
Marella’s girlfriend Beth Phoenix as The “GlamaHaas.” With the three WWE Legends angered by the Italian Superstar’s
disrespect, they all became involved and Honky Tonk Man laid out the Intercontinental Champion with a well-placed guitar
to the head.
Fresh off her win as Lara Croft in the Cyber Sunday Diva Halloween Costume Contest, Mickie James came to the ring,
accompanied by Kelly Kelly & Candice Michelle for their match against the team of Layla, Katie Lea Burchill & Jillian.
James continued her streak as her team dominated their opponents.
For the first time ever, in a special Raw-ECW match-up, Evan Bourne challenged Rey Mysterio in a match characterized by
both Superstars’ high-flying abilities. Though “Air” Bourne put up an effort as valiant as his ECW Championship Match
against Matt Hardy the night before, it wasn’t enough to get the win over the more experienced Mysterio. But the match’s
victor was immediately confronted by Cyber Sunday fall-out, as Kane, bitter over his loss to the Ultimate Underdog,
attacked Mysterio. Bourne didn’t escape mistreatment either, as Mark Henry brutalized him, seemingly angered by the WWE
Universe having chosen the high-flyer to face Hardy.
As part of the three-hour Raw celebrating the program’s landmark 800th episode, The Miz & John Morrison will be taking on
D-Generation X for the first time ever. Claiming they have surpassed Triple H & Shawn Michaels in their abilities and
relevance, the self-proclaimed “chick magnet” and the Shaman of Sexy will host a special live edition of “The Dirt Sheet”
on ECW this week to “break it down” further.
After Chris Jericho entered the ring for the night’s main event, live footage was shown of JBL mercilessly beating Shawn
Michaels in the locker room area. Afterward, the self-proclaimed “wrestling god” emerged, smugly walking out to meet his
partner. Due to the cowardly attack on HBK, World Heavyweight Champion Batista was forced to fend off both JBL and Jericho
for much of the match. But proving that you can’t keep a good man down, Michaels emerged ready for action, giving his
partner the help he needed to pin the Longhorn Loudmouth.
MATCHES:
" WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP "
C.M. Punk & Kofi Kingston
defeated
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase Jr.
becoming new World Tag Team Champions
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
The "GlamaHaas" aka: Charlie Haas
vs
Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella
ended in a no contest
- SIX DIVA TAG TEAM MATCH -
Mickie James, Kelly Kelly & Candice Michelle
defeated
Layla, Jillian Hall & Katie Lea Burchill
Rey Mysterio defeated Evan Bourne
World Heavyweight Champion Dave Batista & Shawn Michaels
defeated
Chris Jericho & John "Bradshaw" Layfield
Air Time: 2:04:07
Run Time: 1:46:15
RAW
# 806
11-3-08 LIVE
St. Pets Time Forum
Tampa, Florida
Raw’s three-hour 800th episode celebration was an explosive event, with highly anticipated battles featuring D-Generation
X, The Miz & John Morrison, Batista, Chris Jericho, and 16 of the Sexiest Women on Television. The night also brought with
it huge changes as the end of the night found Raw with no General Manager and a new, but familiar World Heavyweight
Champion.
Raw’s 800th episode celebration opened with a match featuring one of the most extreme and exciting tag teams in WWE
history: Matt Hardy and his brother, Jeff Hardy. The two ring warriors squared off against a team of SmackDown Superstars,
MVP & The Brian Kendrick. However, even with the presence of Kendrick’s associate, Ezekiel Jackson, the Hardys were able
to soar to victory in their trademark risk-taking style.
In order to determine who should receive an Intercontinental Championship opportunity, a Battle Royal was held between
Cryme Tyme, Jamie Noble, Snitsky, William Regal and Priceless. Though he was in the ring with two prominent tag teams,
Regal managed to be the last Superstar left in the ring, throwing Ted DiBiase over the top rope after the “Priceless”
Superstar eliminated both of his tag team partners, Cody Rhodes & Manu. Fittingly, the 2008 King of the Ring will compete
against Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella next week, in Regal’s homeland of the United Kingdom.
Shane McMahon appeared on Raw to address Randy Orton’s ultimatum that either General Manager Mike Adamle goes, or he does.
Before Shane could make his decision however, Adamle himself approached, regretting his behavior from the week before,
when he slapped Orton as a response to insults directed at his family and character. The General Manager went on to resign
from his position, leaving Randy Orton and Shane McMahon in the ring. Shane then addressed Orton, revealing that the
recuperating Superstar had actually already been medically cleared to compete. As the Legend Killer’s first match back,
Shane set a contest between him and the Superstar Orton punted in the head, costing him the World Heavyweight Title: CM
Punk. Later in the evening, former GM Mike Adamle took a moment to speak with Stephanie McMahon, blaming her
megalomaniacal tendencies for his resignation.
Charlie Haas, continuing his trend of impersonating WWE Superstars, set his sights on WWE Hall of Famer Bret “The Hit Man”
Hart. Despite declaring himself “the best there is, best there was and best there ever will be,” Charlie “The Hit Man”
Haas was unable to stand up to the relentless assault of SmackDown’s undefeated Vladimir Kozlov, who meets Undertaker this
Friday on SmackDown.
As announced on Raw last week, The Miz & John Morrison, the self-proclaimed “greatest team of the 21st century,”
faced D-Generation X as part of Raw’s 800th episode celebration. Prior to the match, Triple H & Shawn Michaels retaliated
against Miz & Morrison for mocking them on ECW last week. Afterward, the self-proclaimed “chick magnet” & the Shaman of
Sexy made their entrance and proceeded to give The Game & HBK a much tighter, competitive match than perhaps the ring
legends had bargained for. In the end, however, D-Generation X maintained their status as one of WWE’s premier tag teams,
defeating the “Dirt Sheet” duo.
Following the match, JBL pitched himself as the new Raw General Manager to Shane McMahon. While Shane didn’t give the
self-made millionaire the position he wanted, he did put Layfield in a match against The Phenom himself, Undertaker, for
later that night.
Raw’s 800th episode celebration was also the setting for the biggest Divas competition in WWE history, a 16-Diva Tag Team
Match. After the Divas made their entrance, the referee noticed that the team of Divas Champion Michelle McCool, Mickie
James, Kelly Kelly, Candice Michelle, Eve, Brie Bella & Tiffany was short by one competitor. Luckily, WWE Hall of Famer
Mae Young made her way to the ring, rounding out the team. Showing a complete lack of respect for the ring legend, Women’s
Champion Beth Phoenix rolled up an unsuspecting Young, pinning her for the win.
World Tag Team Champion CM Punk came to his match against Randy Orton eager to exact revenge for Orton causing him to lose
the World Heavyweight Championship months ago. As the match progressed however, the team of Ted DiBiase, Cody Rhodes &
Manu, emerged with a score of their own to settle, bitter over losing the World Tag Team Titles to Punk & Kofi Kingston
the week before. DiBiase assaulted the Straightedge Superstar, causing the match to end in a disqualification. Orton was
enraged that the third-generation Superstar caused him to lose the match, and punted DiBiase in the head as retaliation
before making his way back to the locker room area. Later, Orton explained to a livid Cody Rhodes & Manu that the punt he
dealt out to DiBiase was not only revenge for them interrupting his match, but also an attempt to kick some sense into the
three competitors.
When JBL was put in a match against SmackDown’s Undertaker, he put on a brave face. However, when it came time for the
self-proclaimed “wrestling god” to actually face The Deadman, he wasn’t quite as courageous, allowing himself to be
counted out, giving Undertaker the win. Before JBL could fully retreat back to the locker room area, however, he was
accosted by Shawn Michaels. Furious at the Longhorn Loudmouth for assaulting him prior to their tag match last week, HBK
threw Layfield back into the ring where Undertaker hit him with a Tombstone Piledriver.
Rey Mysterio & World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston put their high-flying and athletic maneuvers to the test on Raw as
they faced off against the monstrous pair of Kane & Mark Henry. In spite of their speed and athleticism however, the
Ultimate Underdog & the Jamaican Superstar were no match for the sheer mass and force of the Big Red Monster & the World’s
Strongest Man. But after the contest, a Superstar with matching power, The Great Khali, emerged and shocked the WWE
Universe by defending Mysterio from Kane & Henry, and even helping the Master of the 619 deliver his signature maneuver.
In the night’s main event, Chris Jericho received a rematch against Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship he lost
to The Animal at Cyber Sunday. The two Superstars faced off in a match where they had nowhere to run, and nowhere to hide
inside a 15-foot steel cage. In spite of the thorough beating Jericho received at the hands of Batista little more than a
week before, the first-ever Undisputed Champion managed to once again slip away with a win by way of his underhanded
tactics, bludgeoning The Animal with a steel ring wrenched from the cage surrounding them. Going into Survivor Series,
Chris Jericho is once again World Heavyweight Champion, and as decreed by Shane McMahon, will defend his title against a
returning John Cena. Shane’s sister Stephanie was bothered that he would make the match without consulting her first, but
both of Mr. McMahon’s progeny agreed that they wished their father was there to enjoy the celebration of Raw’s milestone
800th episode.
MATCHES:
- TAG TEAM MATCH -
Matt Hardy & Jeff Hardy
defeated
M.V.P. & "The" Brian Kendrick
- 8 MAN OVER THE TOP ROPE BATTLE ROYAL -
William Regal
defeated
Jamie Noble, Gene Snitsky,
Shad, J.T.G.,
Cody Rhodes, Ted Dibiasi Jr. & Manu
earning Regal a shot at the Intercontinental title
Vladimir Kozlov
defeated
Bret “The Hit Man” Haas
aka: Charlie Haas
continuing his undefeated streak
- TAG TEAM MATCH -
"D-Generation X" Shawn Michaels & Triple H.
defeated
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrison
- 16 DIVA TAG TEAM MATCH -
Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix, Layla, Katie Lea Burchill,
Jillian, Maryse, Natalya, Victoria & Lena Yada
defeated
Mae Young, Divas Champion Michelle McCool, Mickie James,
Kelly Kelly, Candice Michelle, Eve, Brie Bella & Tiffany
World Tag Team Champion C.M. Punk
defeated
Randy Orton
via a disqualification
The Undertaker
defeated
John "Bradshaw" Layfield
via a count out
- KUNG FU NAKI DANCE OFF -
Funaki, Lillian Garcia, Hornswoggle, Dusty Rhodes,
Seregeant Slaughter, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan, Goldust & Michael Cole
all dance with each other to the song "Kung Fu Naki"
a truely priceless segment
- TAG TEAM MATCH -
Kane & Mark Henry
defeated
Rey Mysterio & World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston
" WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP "
( STEEL CAGE MATCH )
Chris Jericho
defeated
Dave "The Animal" Batista
becoming the new World Heavyweight Champion
Air Time: 3:08:00
Run Time: 2:24:48
RAW
# 807
11-10-08 LIVE
Manchester United Arena
Manchester, England
As part of WWE’s tour of the United Kingdom, Monday Night Raw appeared in Manchester, England, before a sold-out crowd.
After losing the World Heavyweight Championship to Chris Jericho in a Steel Cage Match the week before, Batista was eager invoke his rematch
clause on Raw. However, Stephanie McMahon appeared on the TitanTron to address The Animal, alerting him that due to her
brother Shane’s promise that whoever won the Steel Cage Match would go on to face John Cena at Survivor Series, she was
unable to grant Batista’s request until after the pay-per-view event. Though the WWE Universe wouldn’t see the World
Heavyweight Championship defended, Stephanie did make two matches designed to bring closure to some of Raw’s most heated
rivalries: Rey Mysterio vs. Kane in a No Disqualification Match and World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho vs.
Shawn Michaels in a Last Man Standing Match. After those announcements, Randy Orton made his way to the ring, dredging up
bad history from he and Batista’s days in Evolution. The Legend Killer then told The Animal that after Cena, it was his
turn for a title opportunity, not Batista’s. Since Stephanie McMahon had already made the night about settling old scores,
The Animal challenged Orton to a match live on Raw. The third-generation Superstar accepted the challenge with an insult
to Batista, who then attempted to hit Orton with a Batista Bomb, before the Legend Killer escaped and fled the ring.
Santino Marella came to the ring as he normally does, accompanied by Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix, and flaunting the
length of his Intercontinental Title reign. The Italian Superstar even discarded the Honk-A-Meter for the new
Honk-A-Perfect-Mountie-Meter, combining the title reigns of Honky Tonk Man, Mr. Perfect and The Mountie for a total of
123 weeks, which Santino was only two years and four months from beating. Marella’s hopes were dashed, however, by William
Regal, who competing in his homeland of England and accompanied by fellow Brit, Layla, quickly defeated the braggadocios
Italian to become the new Intercontinental Champion.
After the match, Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix attempted to console her beau, Santino Marella over his lost
Intercontinental Title. The Italian Superstar had just gotten off the phone with Shane McMahon, and alerted The Glamazon
that she would be defending her title later in the night against Mickie James.
In Mike Knox’s first match as a member of the Raw brand, he faced D-Lo Brown. The Desert Destroyer steamrolled over Brown,
making clear his intention to become a force to be reckoned with on Monday nights.
In a contest designed to put an end to the months-long rivalry between Rey Mysterio and Kane, the Master of the 619 faced
the Big Red Monster in a No Disqualification Match. Though the two ring warriors had faced one another in traditional
singles competition and tag team matches, never before had they been given such complete freedom to do damage to one
another. Though there were no fetters holding back the outrageous power of the 7-footer, it was the speed and ingenuity of
Mysterio that won the day, with the Ultimate Underdog pinning Kane for the win.
Following the match, Randy Orton was confronted by Cody Rhodes and Manu in the locker room area. The two second-generation
Superstars told Orton that they weren’t going to let him get away with punting their associate, Ted DiBiase, in the head
the week before. The Legend Killer claimed that DiBiase was the weak link in their group and that he did them a favor by
taking him out of commission. Rhodes responded by slapping Orton in the face. The youngest World Heavyweight Champion in
history moved toward the younger Superstar with rage in his eyes, but reluctantly decided to back off after an angry Manu
placed himself in Orton’s way.
Randy Orton came to the ring ready to face Batista, but after his entrance, Cody Rhodes & Manu joined them in the ring.
Rhodes then told the Legend Killer that he would take on Batista and show Orton how it’s done. Unfortunately for Rhodes,
however, he was unable to tame The Animal, who not only defeated the second-generation Superstar, but also speared Manu,
as Orton looked on from the ramp.
Both members of Glamarella were forced to defend their titles on Monday night, with Santino Marella losing the
Intercontinental Title to William Regal, and Beth Phoenix defending her Women’s Championship against Mickie James. The
Glamazon was able to retain some of Glamarella’s glory, by defeating James and retaining her gold.
Though Chris Jericho’s World Heavyweight Title wasn’t being defended, there was still a lot on the line as these two
Superstars faced off in one of WWE’s most grueling matches. Designed to put an end to the long-running, extremely personal
rivalry between Jericho and HBK, the ring warriors gave their all in front of the WWE Universe in Manchester. As has been
his modus operandi, however, Jericho refused to fight fairly, and was assisted during the match by JBL, who was eager to
do damage against his opposing Survivor Series team captain, Shawn Michaels. Though HBK hit Jericho with Sweet Chin music,
The Showstopper was subsequently the victim of a steel chair shot from JBL, allowing the World Heavyweight Champion to
pull himself to his feet for the win.
MATCHES:
" INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP "
William Regal defeated Santino Marella
becoming the new Intercontinental Champion
Mike Knox defeated D-Lo Brown
- NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH -
Rey Mysterio defeated Kane
Dave Batista defeated Cody Rhodes
" WOMEN`S CHAMPIONSHIP "
Beth Phoenix defeated Mickie James
retaining the title
- LAST MAN STANDING MATCH -
( NON TITLE )
World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho
defeated
"The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels
Air Time: 2:00:47
Run Time: 1:47:00
RAW
# 808
11-17-08 LIVE
Philips Arena
Atlanta, Georgia
With Raw back in the USA after last week's show in Manchester, England, everyone’s mind was on this Sunday’s Survivor
Series. This came as no surprise since with three Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Matches, including one pitting
the Divas of Raw against SmackDown’s, most of the WWE roster is involved in one way or another. In a night with multiple
tag team matches, many of these ring warriors had an opportunity to learn something of their opponents prior to the
pay-per-view. The most heated confrontation, however, was between CM Punk and a now fully-recovered Randy Orton, who had
cost the Straightedge Superstar his World Heavyweight Championship at Unforgiven by way of a punt to the head.
Giving WWE Superstars a chance to ask questions in the wake of former GM Mike Adamle’s resignation, Stephanie McMahon took
her place at a podium before the entire Raw roster on Monday night. The WWE Executive Vice President went on to back her
brother Shane’s decision that Chris Jericho defend the World Heavyweight Championship against the returning John Cena at
Survivor Series. McMahon also made the night’s main event between CM Punk and Randy Orton a Lumberjack Match in an effort
to make sure the fight stays in the ring and yields a definitive winner. After Santino Marella’s request for another
Intercontinental Title rematch was denied, a fight broke out between opposing Survivor Series captains Shawn Michaels and
JBL when HBK launched himself at the self-made millionaire.
In a preview of this Sunday’s Divas Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match, Kelly Kelly took on SmackDown’s
Victoria. Though Kelly produced a win with her rapidly improving in-ring abilities, the SmackDown Diva attacked her
opponent after the bell. Kelly’s fellow Raw Divas ran to her rescue though, as even Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix put her
differences aside to jump into the fray against one of her Survivor Series opponents.
Last week on Raw, Batista defeated Cody Rhodes and went on to spear his Priceless partner, Manu when it looked as if the
second-generation Superstar might get involved. Manu was given a chance to redeem himself as he faced off against Batista
in what was an extremely competitive match due to the young Samoan Superstar’s ferocity and motivation. After the match,
Cody Rhodes contemplated getting involved, but instead walked away from the ring, saving his ire for the Survivor Series
match this weekend when he, Randy Orton and others will take on Team Batista.
After greeting Dolph Ziggler in the locker-room area, the tag team of Shawn Michaels & Rey Mysterio made their way to the
squared circle as the two ring warriors prepared to tag with one another for the first time ever. HBK & the Ultimate
Underdog faced off against two Superstars who claim to be the greatest tag team in the world: The Miz & John Morrison.
Though they were defeated by Triple H & Michaels two weeks ago in a DX reunion, the self-proclaimed “chick magnet” and the
Shaman of Sexy tasted victory by defeating The Showstopper & the Master of the 619.
In another match that gives the WWE Universe a taste of what they should see this weekend, the reluctant partnership of
JBL & Kane faced Cryme Tyme – two teams that will be on opposing sides of one of Sunday’s Traditional Survivor Series
Elimination Matches. Captain JBL gained the psychological advantage going into Survivor Series by pinning Cryme Tyme’s JTG.
Earlier in the evening, Evan Bourne appeared on Raw to address the ankle injury he suffered three weeks ago. After
revealing that he is rapidly improving and should be back in the ring in just a matter of months, new Raw Superstar Mike
Knox made his way out to the stage, where he stared intently at the high-flyer before walking away ominously. Later, the
Desert Destroyer again caught up with Bourne, and proceeded to attack both the injured Superstar and World Tag Team
Champion Kofi Kingston, leaving both men writhing on the floor in agony.
New Intercontinental Champion William Regal came to the Raw ring already soured by what he perceived as a poor reception
from the WWE Universe. He faced off against ECW Champion Matt Hardy in a non-title match that gave both ring warriors an
opportunity to size up one of their Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match opponents. Though both champions fought
ferociously, the match ended with no definitive winner, as the two Superstars were counted out simultaneously and
continued to brawl after the bell.
Before World Tag Team Champion CM Punk was to face Randy Orton in the night’s main event, 30 WWE Superstars came out and
surrounded the ring as lumberjacks for the match. Though he is still just recently recovered, the Legend Killer pulled out
a win over the Straightedge Superstar, dashing Punk’s hopes of exacting revenge for Orton costing him the World Heavyweight
Championship. Following the match, a Superstar who has his own problems with the third-generation ring warrior, Batista,
entered the ring to attack Orton, leading all of the Superstars present to get involved in what became an out-of-control
brawl that ended the show.
MATCHES:
Kelly Kelly defeated Victoria
Batista defeated Manu
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrison
defeated
Shawn Michaels & Rey Mysterio
J.B.L. & Kane
defeated
"Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
ECW Champion Matt Hardy
vs
Intercontinental Champion William Regal
ended via a double count out
- 30 MAN LUMBERJACK MATCH -
Randy Orton
defeated
World Tag Team Champion C.M. Punk
Air Time: 2:05:10
Run Time: 1:34:13
RAW
# 809
11-24-08 LIVE
Dunkin` Donuts Center
Providence, Rhode Island
Just 24 hours after Survivor Series, where John Cena made the most of his homecoming by winning the World Heavyweight
Title from Chris Jericho, Raw had three eagerly anticipated returns of its own. Not only did The Champ make an appearance,
having a brief altercation with the former title-holder, but Monday night also saw former Women’s Champion Melina lead a
team of Divas to victory, with the Greenbay Loudmouth himself, Mr. Kennedy, making an appearance as well.
Raw opened with an appearance by Shane McMahon, who set a match between Batista and Chris Jericho in order to determine
who should be the new No. 1 contender to John Cena’s World Heavyweight Championship. Shane’s sister Stephanie then arrived,
making the contest a Triple Threat Match by throwing Randy Orton into the mix, before getting into a heated exchange with
her brother. The argument ended with Executive Vice President Stephanie McMahon slapping her brother, also an Executive
Vice President, and Shane angrily leaving his sister to run the show by herself.
The first contest of the night was a rematch between Shawn Michaels & Rey Mysterio and a tag team that calls itself the
greatest of the 21st century, The Miz & John "Nobody" Morrison. Though the Shaman of Sexy and the self-proclaimed “chick magnet”
defeated HBK & the Master of the 619 just one week earlier, their opponents apparently found a way to mesh better as a
team, and defeated the “Dirt Sheet” duo. Following the match, Miz & Morrison took out their frustration by attacking
Mysterio and Michaels, but JBL, who had been observing the entire match from his limo, rushed to the ring, preventing any
further harm from coming to his opposing Survivor Series captain by delivering a huge boot to John "Nobody" Morrison’s face. JBL
later admitted that his act was the result of a mutually beneficial offer he had made to The Showstopper earlier in the
day, though Michaels was still in the process of considering it.
Mr. Kennedy returns to Raw and talks about his new film, "Behind Enemy Lines Columbia".
Raw also saw the first match of the Eight-Man Intercontinental Title Tournament, with the winner going on to face
Intercontinental Champion William Regal with his coveted gold at stake. As WWE Hall of Famer and the first Intercontinental
Champion Pat Patterson looked on from ringside, World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston faced the ruthless Kane. Though the
Jamaican Superstar has proven himself a match for bigger and stronger adversaries in the past, Kingston won this contest
when Kane was disqualified. After the match, the Big Red Monster battered his opponent with the stairs, but Stephanie
McMahon appeared, stopping Kane by granting him the privilege of being the first Superstar to face John Cena back on Raw
next week, though the match would not be for The Champ’s World Heavyweight Title.
In what was one of the most anticipated matches of the night, Chris Jericho won a Triple Threat Match against Batista and
Randy Orton to become the No. 1 contender to John Cena’s World Heavyweight Championship. Though he entered the ring at a
decided disadvantage against two ring warriors so hungry for championship gold, the first-ever Undisputed Champion once
again defied the odds, pinning the Legend Killer, and earning the right to face John Cena at Armageddon for the title
Jericho just lost the night before at Survivor Series.
One Superstar who wasn’t invited to participate in the Intercontinental Title Tournament was Santino Marella. Though the
Italian Superstar recently lost the championship to William Regal, he was unable to compete in the tournament because
someone else requested to face him in the ring. To Santino’s surprise, that someone was former Intercontinental Champion
Goldust, who in spite of his questionable appearance, utilized his significant in-ring ability to defeat the star of
“Santino’s Casa.”
As Intercontinental Champion William Regal looked on, World Tag Team Champion CM Punk and Snitsky fought it out, trying to
earn an opportunity to compete for the 2008 King of the Ring’s title. In spite of the yellow-toothed monster’s decided
size and strength advantage, CM Punk utilized his extensive martial arts background to put down Snitsky and move one step
closer to another championship.
Prior to their Six-Diva Tag Match, Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix, Katie Lea Burchill & Jillian made their way to the ring
where Jillian performed a particularly ear-splitting rendition of Beyonce’s “Single Ladies.” As their opponents entered,
one was conspicuously absent, as only Mickie & Candice stood in the ring. Then, making her surprise return to Raw after
months out following a run-in with Beth Phoenix and a severe ankle injury, Melina came out to a warm welcome from the WWE
Universe. The former two-time Women’s Champion’s return was a triumphant one as she carried her team to victory.
Before World Heavyweight Champion John Cena could even make his much anticipated return to Raw, the bitter Chris Jericho
attempted to steal the new champion’s thunder, claiming that he plans on winning back the title at Armageddon. Cena then
gave Jericho an opportunity to confront him face-to-face, coming out to a thunderous reception from all those in
attendance. The World Heavyweight Champion explained the difference between himself and Jericho, stating that he actually
cares about the many members of the WWE Universe. After the first-ever Undisputed Champion once again stated his intention
to beat Cena at Armageddon and continued to belittle the WWE Universe, The Champ snapped. The World Heavyweight Champion
proceeded to brutalize Jericho, throwing him against the announce table, bludgeoning him with the steel stairs and finally
locking him into an STFU.
MATCHES:
Shawn Michaels & Rey Mysterio
defeated
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrison
- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT -
World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston defeated Kane
via a disqualification, advancing in the Intercontinental Championship Tournament
- TRIPLE THREAT MATCH -
( NUMBER 1 CONTENDERSHIP )
Chris Jericho
defeated
Dvae Batista & Randy Orton
becoming Number 1 contender for the World Heavyweight Championship
Goldust defeated Santino Marella
- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT -
World Tag Team Champion C.M. Punk defeated Gene Snitsky
advancing in the Intercontinental Championship Tournament
Mickie James, Melina & Candice Michelle
defeated
Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix, Jillian Hall & Katie Lea Burchill
Air Time: 2:08:07
Run Time: 2:08:07
RAW
# 810
12-1-08 LIVE
Verizon Center
Washington, D.C.
Though he has only been back in action for a couple weeks following his emergency neck surgery, John Cena already finds
himself and his World Heavyweight Championship in the sights of some of Raw’s most devious villains. Going into Raw, The
Champ knew he would be facing Kane in the main event, and that in a mere two weeks, he must defend his title against
Jericho. But by the end of the night in our nation’s capital, three new enemies reared their heads in the form of the
multi-generational Superstars Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes & Manu.
At the top of the show, Chris Jericho made his presence known in much the same way as World Heavyweight Champion John Cena
the week before, addressing the WWE Universe as he made his way through the crowd down to the ring. The difference however,
was that while The Champ welcomed his fans, Jericho made pains to ignore them. The first-ever Undisputed Champion went on
to explain his resentment toward Cena, stating that while away from the ring, Jericho’s son grew to be a fan, not of his
father, but of John Cena. Now, Jericho hopes to show his son and all of the WWE Universe what a real hero is, by beating
Cena for the World Heavyweight Title at Armageddon.
With the WWE Universe cheering his arrival, Rey Mysterio began making his way down to the ring to face The Miz in the
Intercontinental Title Tournament’s next match. Before the Ultimate Underdog could get to the ring, however, he was
confronted by the monstrous Mike Knox for the second week in a row. This time their run-in didn’t stop with staring and
harsh words, however, as the Desert Destroyer attacked the Master of the 619, resulting in torn ligaments in Mysterio’s
elbow. After recognizing that the luchador wouldn’t be able to compete in the tournament, Stephanie McMahon stated her
intention to find a replacement for the high-flyer later in the night.
Though they could very well end up facing one another as part of the Intercontinental Title Tournament, World Tag Team
Champions CM Punk & Kofi Kingston worked together in their match against Cody Rhodes & Manu on Raw. Facing two ring
warriors with such impressive in-ring abilities and lineages as the second-generation Superstars was a difficult task,
but the champions proved themselves up to the challenge as Kofi pinned Rhodes for the win. After the match, as Rhodes &
Manu seethed over their loss, they were approached by a fellow multi-generational Superstar, Randy Orton. Having seen
what success they achieved as a team at Survivor Series, the Legend Killer claimed it was time they begin working together.
One week earlier on Raw, Melina proved to the WWE Universe that she was fully recovered from her ankle injury, leading
Mickie James & Candice Michelle to victory in a Six-Diva Tag Team Match. In the paparazzi-hounded Diva’s first singles
match back, however, she was faced with the agile and aggressive Jillian. With Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix and her beau,
Santino Marella looking on from ringside, Melina proceeded to beat her opponent, and make clear to The Glamazon her
intention to win her coveted Women’s Title.
JBL appeared on Raw ready for business, specifically interested in getting an answer from Shawn Michaels to the offer he
made to HBK the week before. While the WWE Universe was still in the dark as to the nature of the original offer, the
self-proclaimed “wrestling god” challenged Michaels to a Street Fight. Before the referee rang the bell to start the
match, however, JBL clarified his offer for both Shawn Michaels and our fans. The self-made millionaire asked HBK to come
work for him, bragging of his ability to make up for all the money Michaels had lost in the stock market. JBL then gave
The Showstopper an opportunity to publicly refuse the offer, inviting the conflicted Superstar to give him some Sweet
Chin Music right there if he wasn’t interested. Michaels refrained from kicking Layfield and slowly walked away from the
ring without making a decision.
After introducing himself to countless Superstars in the locker room area and elsewhere, young ring warrior Dolph Ziggler
finally made his in-ring debut on Raw. Ziggler’s first outing was an intense one, as he had to face none other than
Batista. Though The Animal possessed more power and far more experience, Ziggler still managed to hold his own, but it
wasn’t enough to prevent a Batista Bomb for the win. Following Batista’s victory, Randy Orton appeared to taunt The
Animal. Unbeknownst to the Legend Killer, however, Batista had spoken with Stephanie McMahon earlier in the day, and
revealed to Orton that they would be facing one another at Armageddon. As Randy Orton made his way back to the locker
room area, he was confronted by Chris Jericho, who tried to make an ally of the Legend Killer based on their mutual
hatred of World Heavyweight Champion John Cena.
John Morrison and Finlay faced off on Raw, with both Superstars intent on making it to the next bracket in the ongoing
Intercontinental Title Tournament. Though the Belfast Brawler has managed to pull out wins in the past with the help of
Hornswoggle, Finlay’s diminutive son proved more of a hindrance in his match against the Shaman of Sexy. After Morrison
showed aggression toward Hornswoggle, Finlay was distracted long enough for the Tuesday Night Delight to gain the
advantage and steal a win, moving one step closer to William Regal’s Intercontinental Championship.
Having just recently assumed power of Monday Night Raw, Stephanie McMahon appeared before the WWE Universe to talk about
the following week’s Slammy Awards on a special three-hour Raw, starting at 8/7 CT. The Executive Vice President went on
to announce the nominees for what is certainly the most coveted Slammy: Superstar of the Year. She went on to announce
Edge, Batista, Jeff Hardy, Chris Jericho, Triple H and John Cena as the nominees. As if that wasn’t enough reason to tune
in next week, all six Superstars will be competing in matches during the special edition of Raw: Jeff Hardy vs. Chris
Jericho, Triple H vs. Batista and champion against champion, World Heavyweight Champion John Cena vs. WWE Champion Edge.
Though Stephanie McMahon had announced earlier in the night that Rey Mysterio would not be participating in the
Intercontinental Title Tournament due to torn ligaments in his elbow suffered at the hands of Mike Knox, the Ultimate
Underdog was adamant that he be given a chance to compete. Though still suffering, Mysterio made his way to the ring,
where he met an overconfident Miz. The arrogance of the self-proclaimed Chick Magnet was his undoing as the Master of the
619 made his presence known, advancing to the next round of the tournament.
Continuing to prove that he is as strong and fearless as before his injury, World Heavyweight Champion John Cena met Kane
in Raw’s main event. Though Cena’s Armageddon opponent, Chris Jericho attempted to become involved, The Champ managed to
fight off the interloper and then go on to fell the Big Red Monster. After the match, Cena chased after Jericho, who was
attempting to escape. The tables turned, however, when Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes & Manu emerged to attack Cena, allowing
Jericho to lock the World Heavyweight Champion into a particularly vicious version of the Walls of Jericho.
MATCHES:
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Tag Team Champions
C.M. Punk & Kofi Kingston
defeated
Cody Rhodes & Manu
Melina
defeated
Jillian Hall
Dave Batista
defeated
Dolph Ziggler
in Ziggler`s debut match
- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT -
John "Nobody" Morrison
weakly defeated
Fit Finlay
advancing in the Intercontinental Championship Tournament
- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT -
Rey Mysterio
defeated
Mike 'The Miz" Mizanin
advancing in the Intercontinental Championship Tournament
- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion
John Cena
weakly defeated
Kane
Air Time: 2:06:28
Run Time: 1:48:53
RAW
# 811
2008 SLAMMY AWARDS
12-8-08 LIVE
Wachovia Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
When Raw rolled into the City of Brotherly Love for a special three-hour episode, it was one of the biggest shows of the
year, featuring not one, but three massive main events, as well as the 2008 Slammy Awards. However, in spite of all that,
the most pressing issue on the Superstars’ minds was Armageddon. Though much of the night was colored by anticipation of
this Sunday’s event, the situation boiled over in the last minutes of Raw, with every Superstar involved in Armageddon’s
two World Title Matches rushing into the ring, creating a scene of complete and utter bedlam.
Maria and Festus took to the stage at the top of the show to hand out the Slammy for Tag Team of the Year. The Miz & John
Morrison were revealed to be the winners and the “Dirt Sheet” duo came out to accept, claiming to be not only the best tag
team of 2008, but of the 21st century. Following the award, John Morrison entered the ring to compete against CM Punk in
an effort to move ahead in the Intercontinental Title Tournament.
Though Morrison had claimed to be one-half of the finest ring tandem of this century, on Raw he was unable to stand up to
the assault of one-half of the World Tag Team Champions. CM Punk defeated the Shaman of Sexy to move one step closer to
facing 2008 King of the Ring William Regal for his Intercontinental Title.
Evan Bourne’s phenomenal Shooting Star Press was selected as the Best Finishing Maneuver of 2008, but it wasn’t the
high-flyer who arrived to accept the award from Candice Michelle and Cryme Tyme. Unfortunately, it was the man who had
further injured the recuperating “Air” Bourne, Mike Knox. The Desert Destroyer took the coveted award before leaving the
arena.
Following Knox’s deplorable actions, another bitter Superstar emerged: Randy Orton. The Legend Killer was incensed that he
was left out of the running for Superstar of the Year, and as a way of redeeming himself, challenged Triple H and Orton’s
Armageddon opponent, Batista, to a Handicap Match against the team of himself, Manu & Cody Rhodes, stating that “The
Legacy is born.”
SmackDown’s MVP appeared on Raw hoping to break his long-running losing streak. After taunting Philadelphia Philly Jimmy
Rollins at ringside, the Ballin’ Superstar’s opponent was revealed to be someone who looked very familiar. Charlie Haas,
who had earlier in the day won the Slammy for Best Impersonation for his role as The GlamaHaas, came to the ring outfitted
as MVP, bodysuit included. Unfortunately for Montel Vontavious Porter, his arrogant posturing got the best of him, leading
to a win for the Most Valuable Charlie.
ECW Champion Matt Hardy made a special appearance on Raw to hand out the Slammy for Extreme Moment of the Year with the
lovely Tiffany at his side. In what was a special moment for the two Hardys, Matt opened the envelope to discover that his
brother Jeff had won for performing a Swanton Bomb on Randy Orton off the Raw set. Though Jeff was excited, and spoke of
his plans to leave Armageddon having defeated WWE Champion Edge and Triple H to become the new champion, his exuberance
quickly turned to dejection when he had to face the nefarious Chris Jericho. The first-ever Undisputed Champion proved why
he continues to be a devastating force on Raw by pinning the Enigmatic Superstar for the win.
To announce the winner of Couple of the Year, an unusual pairing made their way to the podium: The radiant Kelly Kelly and
the Big Red Monster Kane. Giving the SmackDown General Manager a chance to subject Raw to her screeching, Vickie Guerrero
was announced the winner along with her husband, WWE Champion Edge. One pair, however, was particularly put out that they
had been looked over for the award, and Glamarella wasn’t going to take it sitting down. Santino Marella & Women’s
Champion Beth Phoenix went on to challenge any “couple” in WWE to face them.
The two got more than they bargained for however, when Finlay & Hornswoggle emerged to accept the challenge. The Belfast
Brawler & his diminutive son ran roughshod over Glamarella, further contributing to their discontent at the Slammy loss.
But before the couple could leave the ring, ECW General Manager Teddy Long and Melina came out to the podium to announce
the winner of Diva of the Year. Though it displeased her to announce it, Melina read Beth Phoenix’s name. As The Glamazon
attempted to accept her award, she broke out into a fight with her rival Diva that resulted in Santino getting hit in the
groin.
To give out the Slammy Award for OMG Moment of the Year, Lilian Garcia announced ECW’s Alicia Fox and the WWE personality
who can be heard saying “Oh my god!” weekly on WWE.com, Joey Styles. The two revealed the winner to be World Tag Team
Champion CM Punk, for cashing in Money in the Bank to beat Edge and win his first World Heavyweight Championship. The
Straightedge Superstar was gracious in his acceptance, stating his intention to go the distance and win the
Intercontinental Title from William Regal after winning the tournament.
After Punk’s acceptance, his partner, World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston, made his way to the ring to participate in
that same Intercontinental Title Tournament. The Jamaican Superstar didn’t have the same success as his partner, however,
as Rey Mysterio defeated him in the two’s first-ever match-up. The Master of the 619 will now go on to Armageddon this
Sunday to compete against CM Punk for the opportunity to face Intercontinental Champion William Regal.
The highly-coveted Slammy for Match of the Year was presented by SmackDown’s Eve and the star of the upcoming film Behind
Enemy Lines: Colombia, Mr. Kennedy. Paying homage to the “Nature Boy” himself, this award went to Ric Flair’s Career
Threatening Match against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXIV. HBK came to the podium to give an emotional acceptance
speech, but was interrupted by JBL, who had one week prior made an employment offer to Michaels. The self-proclaimed
“wrestling god” took the award from Shawn, and declared himself the winner for his Parking Lot Brawl Match against John
Cena at The Great American Bash, before leaving the stage and a dejected Michaels standing empty-handed.
Making good on his challenge from earlier in the night, Orton and the team he calls “The Legacy,” including Manu & Cody
Rhodes faced off against Triple H & Batista. Though the contest was a 3-on-2 Handicap Match, the outcome was nowhere near
certain, as Triple H & Batista are not only among the current roster’s most dominant athletes, but are also two of the
most powerful Superstars in WWE history. In spite of their wealth of strength and ability, however, they were unable to
compete against the odds stacked against them, with Randy Orton hitting Batista with a vicious RKO to pick up the win in
his team’s first match together.
Who better to give out the award for “DAMN!” Moment of the Year than the man who can bark that word like none other, Ron
Simmons? Along with Mickie James, Simmons presented the award to The Great Khali for his Khali Kiss Cam segments on
SmackDown. The Punjabi Giant spoke of the fleeting nature of material possessions, which warmed Mickie’s heart to the
humongous Superstar. As they looked in one another’s eyes, the arena was filled with Superstars such as Jillian Hall,
“Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, Sgt. Slaughter, Kung Fu Naki and even WWE personality Howard Finkel, creating another “DAMN!” Moment
right there on Raw. As The Great Khali and Mickie kissed, Ron Simmons had little choice but to brandish his signature
catchphrase.
As seen on WWE.com earlier today, R-Truth won a Slammy Award for Best Musical Performance. The rapping ring warrior’s
fortunes took a downturn on Raw, however, as he faced off against Dolph Ziggler, who beat the rapping Superstar by
disqualification. Following the contest, the victor greeted the audience, saying “Allow me to introduce myself. I’m the
winner, Dolph Ziggler.”
The last Slammy awarded on Raw was perhaps the most prestigious: Superstar of the Year. Demonstrating the weight of this
honor, Stephanie McMahon herself emerged to declare the winner. In what came as a great disappointment to the WWE Universe,
the name she read was that of the reviled Chris Jericho. Affecting his normal smarmy, elitist attitude, Jericho took the
podium and spoke at length of why he deserved the award. Lucky for our fans, however, his diatribe was interrupted by
World Heavyweight Champion John Cena. Though The Champ wanted to chase after his slippery Armageddon opponent, he was held
back by a referee in order to compete in his Champion vs. Champion Match against WWE Champion Edge.
Cena and Edge are no stranger to one another in the ring, with an extended rivalry in their past, but their main event on
Raw was as intense as any of their past matches. Though both champions fought hard, the match ended as a no contest, after
a run-in from the cowardly Chris Jericho, who took advantage of the situation to attack Cena, mere days before their World
Heavyweight Title Match. With Cena distracted, Triple H stormed the ring to attack Edge, and with the later involvement of
Jeff Hardy, all three contenders in the WWE Championship Match at Armageddon battled it out in the ring, as Cena and
Jericho’s brawl spilled out into the crowd.
MATCHES:
Mike"The Miz" Mizanin & John " Nobody" Morrison
won the Slammy Award for Tag Team of the Year
- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT -
( SEMI FINAL MATCH )
World Tag Team Champion C.M. Punk
defeated
John "Nobody" Morrison
Evan Bourne won the Slammy Award for Best Finishing Maneuver
"M.V.C." Most Valuable Charlie
aka: Charlie Haas
defeated
M.V.P.
Jeff Hardy won the Slammy Award for Extreme Moment of the Year
Chris Jericho defeated Jeff Hardy
Edge & Vickie Guerrero
won the Slammy Award for Couple of the Year
Fit Finlay & Hornswoggle
defeated
Santino Marella & Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix
Beth Phoenix won the Slammy Award for Diva of the Year
World Tag Team Champion C.M. Punk
won the Slammy Award for Oh My God! Moment of the Year
- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT -
( SEMI FINAL MATCH )
Rey Mysterio
defeated
World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston
Shawn Michaels won the Slammy Award for Match of the Year,
but the award was taken by J.B.L.
- 2 ON 3 HANDICAP MATCH -
"The Legacy"
Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes & Manu
defeated
Triple H & Dave Batista
The Great Khali won the Slammy Award for “DAMN!” Moment of the Year
Dolph Ziggler defeated R-Truth
via a disqualification
Chris Jericho won the Slammy Award for Superstar of the Year
- NON TITLE CHAMPION vs CHAMPION MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion John Cena
vs
WWE Champion Edge
ended in a no contest
Air Time: 3:04:00
Run Time: 2:23:24
RAW
# 812
12-15-08 LIVE
Mellon Arena
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania’s city of steel, the sturdy metal that gives the metropolis its nickname is forged in the searing flames
of a sweltering mill. When Raw rolled into town just one day after Armageddon, the WWE Universe saw that the confines of a
ring can prove to be just as much of a crucible – and the mettle forged inside just as unbreakable.
Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix may have beaten out fellow nominee Kelly Kelly for Diva of the Year honors during last
week’s Slammy Awards, but tonight proved much more of a winner for the quick-learning Diva. Teaming up with Melina, Kelly
Kelly avenged herself in a tag team match against The Glamazon & Jillian Hall. The spunky Diva, however, had little time
to celebrate. After the match, a maniacal-looking Kane chased off Kelly Kelly’s adversaries and then proceeded to corner
the nervous Diva, eventually stalking her out of the ring and up the entrance ramp.
The strange drama between Kane and Kelly Kelly continues to unfold. The Big Red Monster appeared to have the young Diva
trapped in a squalid room as he sat across from her and confessed that he felt a romantic chemistry between the two last
week when they presented the Slammy Award for Couple of the Year. When Kelly Kelly tried to end the uncomfortable
encounter, Kane became enraged, preventing the Diva from leaving.
Deuce appears to have gotten in touch with his roots. As the son of WWE Hall of Famer “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka, the former
'50s throwback told the WWE Universe that moving forward he’d like to be called by his real name, Sim Snuka. With Cody
Rhodes and Manu looking on from ringside, the younger Snuka went on to tangle with the Master of the 619. But the two
second-generation Superstars just couldn’t help themselves, interfering in the bout, ensuring Mysterio the win by
disqualification. Just as Mysterio escaped his first three tormentors, however, Mike Knox appeared and brutally attacked
him, leaving his battered body strewn on the entrance ramp.
After suffering a humiliating loss to Batista at Armageddon, Randy Orton challenged The Animal to a rematch. When
confronted by Batista, however, Orton instead slapped his rival and scurried off. Unfortunately for Batista, the whole
ploy proved to be a trap. As he tracked down his nimble nemesis, Batista was jumped by Rhodes and Manu. As all three men
bombarded The Animal, John Cena, who suffered a similar fate two weeks prior, charged into the fray and unleashed fury,
freeing Batista and sending the trio scurrying for an exit.
Chris Jericho is just brimming with sorry excuses. This week proved no exception. The Slammy Award-winning Superstar of
the Year refused to compete against “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan by saying the bout was beneath him. Jericho then went on to state
that he should be the No. 1 contender to the World Heavyweight Championship and will not compete again until he’s handed
an opportunity to battle John Cena. Later in the night, Duggan met with Shad & JTG, who seem determined to help the
veteran. The Cryme Tyme duo told the veteran that "it's time" before the trio walked off together.
While disciplining Chris Jericho for not facing off against “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, Stephanie McMahon told the cocky former
World Heavyweight Champion that next week there will be four matches, all involving former champions. The winners of those
matches will then go on to a Fatal Four Way Elimination Match the following week to determine who will face current World
Heavyweight Champion John Cena for his title.
Defending their newly acquired waist wear, World Tag Team Champions The Miz & John Morrison defeated former champions CM
Punk & Kofi Kingston. The punishment didn’t stop there, though. Just minutes before, a crazed Kane had intimidated Kelly
Kelly into confessing the identity of her secret Superstar love. The encounter left the Diva a nervous wreck as she begged
the Big Red Monster not to hurt her paramour. After the match, the defiant giant barged into the ring, ominously sizing up
Punk and Morrison before quickly turning and Tombstoned Miz. Later in the night, Kelly Kelly hastily packed up her
possessions and was comforted by fellow Divas Mickie James and Candice. The flustered Diva seemed repulsed by the
suggestion that her secret Superstar lover is The Miz. Did Kane have the right man?
Donning a Santa Claus costume, Charlie Haas (Santa Claas) hoped to find a win over Dolph Ziggler under his Christmas tree.
Unfortunately for Haas, the match only served up lumps of coal for him when the exciting newcomer laid him out.
JBL was all too happy to unspool footage of a tortured confession by Shawn Michaels at Armageddon, in which HBK admits
that not only is he financially bust, but, perhaps worse, he is working for JBL to pull himself out of the hole. Having
lost his fortune in the spiraling stock market, The Showstopper told the rapt audience that he had turned to the
investment guru. Read more about HBK’s confession here.
Randy Orton was determined to make a statement. In a 2-on-3 Handicap Match, in which he teamed with Cody Rhodes & Manu
against Batista & World Heavyweight Champion John Cena, he made his statement loud and clear. As Cena tangled with Rhodes
and Manu outside the ring, Orton took aim at a dazed Batista as if he were sizing up a Super Bowl-winning field goal.
Then, in a matter of seconds, the Legend Killer punted Batista in the head, dropping The Animal into a lifeless puddle.
MATCHES:
Kelly Kelly & Melina
defeated
Beth Phoenix & Jillian Hall
Rey Mysterio
defeated
Sim Snuka aka: Deuce
via a disqualification
"Hacksaw" Jim Duggan
vs
Chris Jericho
never got underway
" WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP "
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & John "Nobody" Morrison
defeated
C.M. Punk & Kofi Kingston
retaining the titles
Dolph Ziggler
defeated
Santa Claas aka: Charlie Haas
Dave "The Animal" Batista & John "Steroidicidal" Cena
defeated
"Legacy"
Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes & Manu
via a disqualification
Air Time: 2:05:35
Run Time: 1:46:30
RAW
# 813
12-22-08 LIVE
Air Canada Center
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
With just three more sleeps until Christmas, Raw slid into Canada to deliver some holiday cheer – at least most Superstars
were there to deliver cheer. A handful on the naughty list, however, did their level best to earn a few well-deserved
lumps of coal. And one gave the hometown crowd a little something extra to cheer about.
Santino Marella, joined Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix, kicked off Raw with all the holiday cheer of expired egg nog. The
grinchin’ goomba verged on revealing a “secret” he said he knows about Santa Claus, but before he could reveal the secret,
World Heavyweight Champion John Cena interrupted. Cena told Santino not to mess with jolly, ol’ Saint Nick, which prompted
the Italian to challenge him to a match. John Cena and a Diva of his choosing will square off later tonight against Santino
& Beth.
After accosting Kelly Kelly last week and scaring the bejeezus out of her, an ever-so-slightly less psychotic Big Red
Monster apologized to the tormented Diva at the behest of Stephanie McMahon. Kane still did not learn the identity of
Kelly Kelly’s secret lover, but he did have a chance to take out his aggression on Shawn Michaels. Unfortunately for Kane,
HBK had some aggression of his own to vent. Michaels emerged victorious in the first of four matches of the night to
determine who advances to the following Monday night’s Fatal Four Way Elimination Match. The winner of the elimination
bout will earn No. 1 contender status and face World Heavyweight Champion John Cena in a title match at the Royal Rumble.
He may have helped to distract John Cena last week, which allowed Randy Orton to punt Batista in the head, but Manu
couldn’t help himself tonight against high-flying Kofi Kingston. As his fellow second-generation Superstar Cody Rhodes
looked on, Manu simply could not leverage his size and strength advantage to his favor, succumbing to the swift aerial
assault of the Jamaican Sensation. Afterward, Manu, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Afa, experienced a tense run-in with
Randy Orton, the self-styled leader of the group of the second-generation Superstars; Manu interrupted a conversation
between Orton and Sim Snuka, son of WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka.
With Intercontinental Champion William Regal observing intently, his lady-friend Layla teamed with Jillian Hall to battle
Melina & Mickie James in a Divas Tag Team Match. After Jillian belted out a stomach-turning version of a holiday tune, the
Divas got down to business. In the end, it was Melina who would silence Jillian by pinning her rival for the three-count.
In the second match of the night to determine who will advance to next Monday’s Fatal Four Way Elimination Match, the
scales of injustice tipped in favor of JBL, with Shawn Michaels leaning heavily in his favor. Just as JBL’s opponent Rey
Mysterio appeared to overcome the Longhorn Loudmouth’s size advantage, sizing up the mouthy millionaire for a 619,
Michaels charged down the entrance ramp. HBK, who had earlier discussed his money woes with longtime confidante Triple H,
seized his benefactor Layfield, dragged him from the ring and slapped him across the face. The harsh action, while
seemingly punitive to JBL, resulted in a disqualification for Rey. Michaels’ interference permits JBL to advance to next
Monday night’s Fatal Four Way Match in the Race to the Rumble.
Due to injuries suffered by Batista last week as a result of the punt to the head, compliments of Randy Orton, The Animal
was unable to compete and forfeited the match. The forfeit allows Orton, who callously called the kick to Batista’s skull
his most satisfying, to advance into next week’s Fatal Four Way Elimination Match in a battle to become the No. 1
contender to World Heavyweight Champion John Cena.
Perhaps Kelly Kelly thought she was off the hook once she spilled The Miz’s name to Kane last week when the Big Red
Monster demanded to know the identity of her secret lover. If so, she doesn’t know Miz & Morrison all that well. After
letting them know that she will be Cena’s partner in the Mixed Tag Team Match, the “Dirt Sheet” duo informed her that they
heard a rumor that “somebody” broke into the Diva's hotel room, stole her paassport and trashed the place. Why would anyone
want to do that to “sweet, innocent Kelly Kelly?” asked Morrison.
In the fourth and final bout of the night to determine who will advance to next week’s Fatal Four Way Elimination Match,
2008 Slammy Award winner for Superstar of the Year Chris Jericho took on the challenge of CM Punk for the last slot in the
Fatal Four Way Elimination Match. After a determined Punk appeared to have Jericho in his crosshairs, the ruthless
Undisputed Champion summoned his unyielding longing and managed to conquer the Straightedge Superstar. Jericho’s inclusion
completes the lineup for next Monday’s Fatal Four Way Elimination Match, including Shawn Michaels, JBL and Randy Orton as
the Superstars compete for the opportunity to face John Cena for the World Heavyweight Championship at the Royal Rumble.
It’s a Christmas miracle! At least that’s how World Heavyweight Champion John Cena categorized it before announcing that
seven-time Women’s Champion Trish Stratus would be teaming with him in place of Kelly Kelly, who left the arena
distraught, against Santino Marella & Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix. Needless to say, Stratus’ fellow Canadians
appreciated one of their own striking back against the arrogance of Glamarella and competing for the first time since
September 2006. Stratusfaction guaranteed, Stratusfaction delivered.
MATCHES:
- RACE TO THE RUMBLE MATCH -
Shawn Michaels defeated Kane
Kofi Kingston defeated Manu
Melina & Mickie James
defeated
Jillian Hall & Layla
- RACE TO THE RUMBLE MATCH -
James "Bradshaw" Layfield
defeated
Rey Mysterio
via a disqualification
- RACE TO THE RUMBLE MATCH -
Randy Orton defeated Dave Batista
via a forfeit
- RACE TO THE RUMBLE MATCH -
Chris Jericho defeated C.M. Punk
John "Steroidicidal" Cena & Trish Stratus
defeated
"Glamarella" Santino Marella & Beth Phoenix
Air Time: 2:05:19
Run Time: 1:49:32
RAW
# 814
12-29-08 LIVE
Verizon Wireless Arena
Manchester, New Hampshire
As Superstars prepare to say goodbye to 2008 and ring in the new year, tonight’s Raw was filled with enough noisemakers,
countdowns and determined resolutions to make Times Square jealous. With Superstars jockeying for position in the Race to
the Rumble, a few ended their year on a high note and more than a few left hoping for better days in 2009.
After Shawn Michaels rescued J.B.L. from a date with a 619 last week, Rey Mysterio arrived on Raw to demand satisfaction.
The conquistador-who-leaves-‘em-wanting-more asked HBK for a match, with the winner moving on to compete in tonight’s
Fatal Four Way Elimination Match featuring Michaels, JBL, Randy Orton and Chris Jericho. The winner of that match will
face off against World Heavyweight Champion John Cena in a title bout at the upcoming Royal Rumble. JBL, however, wouldn’t
hear of it. Acting in his capacity as Michaels’ employer, the Longhorn Loudmouth told Rey “no” in no uncertain terms. The
situation continued to get even more interesting as a maniacal Mike Knox steamrolled through the audience and attacked
Rey. As Michaels followed JBL up the entrance ramp, forced by Layfield to leave Rey to fend for himself, Cena ran in and
helped out his amigo.
In an ongoing quest to mold his disciples, Randy Orton informed Cody Rhodes, Sim Snuka and Manu that tonight they must
complete their first test. Each man will compete in a singles match. Each man who wins will have completed “step one,” any
man who loses will be out of his “Legacy.”
In the first match of the night, Cody Rhodes survived Randy Orton’s win-or-you’re-out-of-the-group ultimatum by defeating
CM Punk by count-out. Rhodes passed Orton’s “step one” after Intercontinental Champion William Regal, who will defend his
title against Punk next week, distracted Punk allowing Rhodes to sneak into the ring under the count of 10. After the
match, Punk took his frustration out on Rhodes, anyway. That is, until Regal sent Punk a message with well-placed knee to
the head.
Stephanie McMahon had wanted World Heavyweight Champion John Cena to perform commentary during tonight’s Fatal Four Way
Elimination Match to see who will face him at the Royal Rumble, but The Champ had other plans. Cena proposed “going out
with a bang” during the last Raw of 2008 and putting together a wild, giant match. Stephanie seemed to warm to the idea
when Cena left.
Goldust shares his Christmas gift giving ideas for numerous wrestlers.
As Superstars continue to push the pedal in the Race to the Rumble, Melina took the checkered flag in a Six-Diva Battle
Royal against Kelly Kelly, Mickie James, Jillian Hall, Katie Lea and Candice Michelle. The victory earns Melina an
opportunity to face Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix at the Royal Rumble. Undoubtedly revved-up to send a message, Phoenix
initiated a shoving match with her opponent, who showed no signs of backing down. That is until a rabid Glamazon fan,
identified as Rosa Mendes, jumped the security rail and attacked Melina until security restrained her.
In the second match for Randy Orton’s group of multi-generation Superstars, Sim Snuka managed to beat back the unorthodox
challenge of “SuperHaas” Charlie Snuka, dressed as Sim’s legendary father, “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka. The win propels Snuka
past “step one” of Orton’s win-or-you’re-out-of-the-group ultimatum.
After lending an ear to World Heavyweight Champion John Cena’s idea to exit 2008 with a wild ride, Stephanie McMahon
arranged an “Out with a Bang” 10-Man Tag Team Match pitting John Cena, Rey Mysterio, Cryme Tyme & Kofi Kingston against
Kane, Mike Knox, The Miz & John Morrison & Dolph Ziggler. If Stephanie wanted to ring out 2008 on a high note, she found
10 noisemakers that fit the bill. When the ball dropped, however, it was Mysterio who stood tall with a splash from the
top rope onto Knox to earn the victory for his team.
Two weeks after fibbing to Kane about the identity of her secret lover, Kelly Kelly confronted her real secret romance
Randy Orton! After listening to Kelly Kelly berate him for not calling her back, Orton told the beautiful blond that he
didn’t need her to protect him against Kane. He then blew her off by telling her that he didn’t need any distractions
while vying for the World Heavyweight Championship.
In the third and final match for Randy Orton’s group of multi-generation Superstars, Manu failed “step one” by dropping his
match against ECW Champion Matt Hardy and jeopardizing his spot in the Legend Killer’s “Legacy.” When Manu looked for help
from Cody Rhodes and Sim Snuka, however, the two turned their backs on the son of WWE Hall of Famer Afa.
J.B.L. has done it again. In a Fatal Four Way Match to determine who will face World Heavyweight Champion John Cena at the
Royal Rumble, the Longhorn Loudmouth proved once again just how loudly money talks. Just as Jericho prepared to lock J.B.L.
into the Walls of Jericho, Michaels laid out the first ever Undisputed Champion with Sweet Chin Music. Next up, it was
Orton who found himself on the receiving end of Sweet Chin Music. And then there were two: Employer and employee. A
conflicted Michaels pleaded with J.B.L. not to make him lie down and lose the match. After several tense minutes, however,
a torn HBK accepted his fate. Rather than lie down, though, Michaels asked JBL to give him a Clothesline from Hell. More
than happy to oblige, JBL delivered and won the title opportunity at the Rumble. The victory drives JBL another mile
closer to what he covets more than anything else, the World Heavyweight Championship. While the Longhorn Loudmouth appears
to be on a roll in the Race to the Rumble, once he arrives he has quite a roadblock awaiting him in the form of John Cena.
MATCHES:
Cody Rhodes
defeated
C.M. Punk
via a count out
- DIVA BATTLE ROYAL -
Melina
defeated
Mickie James, Kelly Kelly, Jillian Hall,
Katie Lea Burchill & Candice Michelle
Sim Snuka
defeated
"Super Haas" Charlie Snuka
aka: Charlie Haas
- "OUT WITH A BANG" 10 MAN TAG TEAM MATCH -
John "Steroidicidal" Cena, Rey Mysterio,
Kofi Kingston, "Cryme Tyme" Shad & J.T.G.
defeated
Kane, Mike "The Miz" Mizanin,
John "Nobody" Morrison, Mike Knox & Dolph Ziggler
- NON TITLE MATCH -
ECW Champion Matt Hardy
defeated
Manu
- RACE TO THE RUMBLE CLIMAX MATCH -
( FATAL FOUR WAY ELIMINATION )
John "Bradshaw" Layfield
defeated
Chris Jericho, Randy Orton & Shawn Michaels
Air Time: 2:10:49
Run Time: 1:56:00
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THIS PAGE CREATED ON 1-7-08