Past SMACKDOWN Shows 2006
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SMACKDOWN # 334
1-6-06 Taped 1-3-06
Wachovia Arena
Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

On the final Friday Night SmackDown of 2005, Mark Henry made his shocking return to cost Batista & Rey Mysterio the WWE Tag Team Championship; on the first episode of 2006, Henry once again made a statement, this time helping MNM retain the gold. Earlier in the night, after Henry destroyed three men, Melina announced that he was there for her protection, and nothing else. As Batista later addressed the media to claim innocence regarding about Melina’s allegations of sexual harassment, Henry interrupted his press conference. Henry told the Animal that he was a sick man to be taking advantage of a helpless woman, and asked how he would feel if he was the victim. Batista told Henry that it was not the time or place for them to discuss it, but Henry would later make it his place to get face to face with the World Heavyweight Champion. In the main event, Batista and Rey Mysterio met MNM inside a Steel Cage with the WWE Tag Team Championship on the line. Early in the match, the challengers dominated, but the sneaky champions managed to take advantage of the smaller Mysterio. The Animal made a comeback, and it seemed as if the challengers were poised to regain the gold…until The World’s Strongest Man made his appearance. After searching for a way into the cage, Henry proceeded to show his strength, breaking the chain that padlocked the cage door shut. He then ripped the door off of its hinges, and entered the ring to square off with the Animal. After subduing Batista while the Animal attempted to give Mercury a spinebuster, Henry used the cage door as a weapon. Batista ended up sandwiched between the cage door and the cage wall, and after nailing Rey with the door as well, Henry rolled Nitro on top of Rey for the pinfall, handing MNM the victory.

Orlando Jordan and Chris Benoit also made statements on Friday Night SmackDown, both at the expense of Booker T. Booker fired up Orton for Match No. 6 of the Best-of-7 Series, and Orton promised Booker that he would hand him the United States Championship on a silver platter. When later discussing this backstage with Kristal, Orlando Jordan approached Booker, making fun of Orton for losing last week. When Booker refused Jordan’s offer to be his substitute, Orlando told Booker he must respect him because he was United States Champion longer than Booker. Booker told Orlando that he had to earn respect, and Jordan told him to remember that saying. Early in the match, Sharmell once again tried to interfere with Booker’s crutch, leading to Orton having her removed from ringside. The Legend Killer then took the advantage, but the Rabid Wolverine came back with his signature rolling suplexes and flying headbutt. Orton was able to escape both the Sharpshooter and Crippler Crossface, and took control once again. At this point, Orlando Jordan jumped out of the crowd, knocking down Booker and stealing his other crutch. He then entered the ring and nailed Benoit with it, drawing a disqualification on Orton. As Booker and Orton looked on horrified, a satisfied Jordan smirked as Benoit was announced the winner to tie the series at 3 matches apiece.

On a night of statements, perhaps the most bizarre was made by the Boogeyman. As JBL met Matt Hardy in a Falls Count Anywhere Match, the thought of another appearance by the Boogeyman loomed. Hardy and JBL brawled throughout the crowd and into the ring, and ended up in the entrance aisle near JBL’s limo. After assaulting him with a ladder, Hardy laid JBL on the hood of his limo and proceeded to set up the ladder. Before he could jump onto JBL, Jillian interfered and held Hardy’s leg. This allowed JBL to recover, and after grabbing a trash can, JBL nailed Hardy with the weapon and dropped him back first onto the limo. JBL was able to get the easy pinfall, but his horror was just beginning. As JBL and Jillian celebrated, smoke poured from JBL’s limo and the Boogeyman appeared through the moon roof. He chased a horrified JBL & Jillian around the ring, but this time they weren’t able to escape. As Jillian tried to climb over the security barrier, the Boogeyman caught her by the leg. He then produced a handful of worms and stuffed them down Jillian’s skirt as a horrified JBL looked on. JBL & Jillian were then able to run away, but the bizarre Boogeyman laughed as they did so.

Never one to stay quiet, Mr. Kennedy made his first appearance since his injury, joining Michael Cole and Tazz on commentary for the Cruiserweight Championship Match between Kid Kash and Juventud. As Kennedy crowed about being the reason for the network’s ratings increase, Kash and Juventud battled fiercely for the gold. In the end, Kash was able to exploit an injury to help him to victory. Earlier in the match, Juventud hit a somersault hilo onto Kash as he stood on the floor, but the former champion injured his knee on the way down. As the match drew to a conclusion, Juventud’s leg buckled as he tried a Juvy Driver. Forced to find a new method to victory, Juventud attempted a 450 Splash, but Kash rolled out of the way. The champion then nailed the challenger with the Dead Level to pick up the victory and retain the gold.

Friday Night SmackDown also saw the debut of a new tag team, the Gymini. Simon Dean came to the ring, asking any two men in the back to come out for some competition. When Paul London and Brian Kendrick answered his call, Simon said the competition wouldn’t come from him, but from the new tag team he’s sponsoring. He then produced the Gymini, and the muscular twins proceeded to destroy London & Kendrick as Simon looked on with glee.

Plus, Bobby Lashley announced that he was the first man entered into the 2006 Royal Rumble, saying he intended to win the match and go on to face Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 22.

MATCHES:

WWE Tag Team Champions MNM
defeated
World Heavyweight Champion Batista & Rey Mysterio
via a Steel Cage Match

Chris Benoit defeated Randy Orton
in match number 6 of a best of 7 series

Bradshaw defeated Matt Hardy
in a falls count anywhere match

Cruiserweight Champion Kid Kash defeated Juventud Guerrero

Mark Henry defeated Rob Eckos, John Troske and Gus Harlacher
Henry defeated all 3 men consecutively

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SMACKDOWN # 335
1-13-06 Taped 1-10-06
Wachovia Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

One of the most historic and chaotic weeks in WWE history culminated with RAW’s Kurt Angle winning the World Heavyweight Championship on SmackDown.

An emotional Batista began the night addressing an equally emotional crowd in Philadelphia. He handed the World Heavyweight Championship to General Manger Theodore Long and explained that he will be sidelined indefinitely because of a severe triceps injury suffered at the hands of Mark Henry. True to the way he reigned as world champion, Batista said he had to “do the right thing” and relinquish the title since he’d be unable to defend it in the ring. Many of the fans in attendance shouted out begging him to reconsider; some Batista supporters were openly weeping in the highly charged atmosphere. But attention quickly shifted to the night’s main event when Mr. Long announced that a new World Heavyweight Champion would be declared that night in a 20-man, over-the-top Battle Royal.

Participants ranged from the fleet Rey Mysterio to the massive Mark Henry to the powerhouse Lashley to the longest-reigning world champion in SmackDown history, JBL. Chris Benoit and Randy Orton were not eligible because they'd instead battle in the final match of the best-of-seven series for the United States Championship. But with 19 of the 20 combatants in the ring, the Olympic gold medalist from RAW shocked everyone by emerging as the final Battle Royal entrant. Ultimately, the match came down to Angle and Henry as the final two Superstars. Despite absorbing an Angle Slam, Henry bounced back and twice crushed Kurt into the corner with an avalanche. Angle somehow responded with a German suplex to the gargantuan Henry. Angle later managed an innovative head scissors from a hurricanrana position — twisting and leveraging Henry over the top rope. As Henry’s weight shifted, both men crashed toward the floor. “The World’s Strongest Man” hit the floor first, while only one of Kurt’s feet ever touched the ground. As a result, the intense Kurt Angle was declared new World Heavyweight Champion, and he held the belt high for all to see. It was the first time in history that a Battle Royal had determined the World Heavyweight Championship.

If that weren’t enough, a new United States Champion was also crowned in unprecedented fashion. Thanks to an illegal cheap shot, best-of-seven replacement Randy Orton defeated Chris Benoit in Match No. 7. In doing so, Booker T was credited with a 4-3 series victory and the United States Championship. It was the first-ever time that a substitute has won the United States Championship for someone else. After the match, Orton reminded Booker T that he owes “The Legend Killer” one.

In addition, the legendary “Rowdy One” hosted Piper’s Pit. JBL and Jillian crashed the show as guests. But when Piper had heard enough, he called out his originally planned visitor: The Boogeyman. A shaken JBL sacrificed Jillian and bailed from the ring. Then, The Boogeyman did the unthinkable: He ate the hideous growth off Jillian’s face.

MATCHES:

Kurt Angle won the 20 man Battle Royal
to become new World Heavyweight Champion

Randy Orton defeated Chris Benoit in match number 7
making Booker T. the new United States Champion

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SMACKDOWN # 336
1-20-06 Taped 1-15-06
Florence Civic Center
Florence, South Carolina

It was a night of second chances for the SmackDown Superstars as Friday Night SmackDown rolled into Florence, South Carolina this week. On the Jan. 13 edition of SmackDown, Kurt Angle shocked the world by jumping from RAW to win the World Heavyweight Championship in a Battle Royal. The final two men eliminated in that Battle Royal, Mark Henry and Rey Mysterio, squared off to see who would face the new champion at the Royal Rumble. Early in the match, Rey used his speed, trying to stick and move to counteract the World’s Strongest Man’s size and power advantage. While Rey managed to keep Henry at bay for a while, eventually Henry caught Mysterio and used his power advantage to dominate. However, Henry got cocky, holding Mysterio above his head for an extended length of time. Rey was able to escape before Henry could do anything, and hit a series of 619s to chop the big man down to size. Rey then hit the frog splash for a near-fall, but Henry showed his agility, rolling out of the pinfall and over Mysterio. He then nailed Rey with the World’s Strongest Slam, getting the three count and winning the chance to face Angle on Jan. 29.

Henry would make another impact later in the night. On RAW, Daivari cost Kurt Angle his match with Shawn Michaels, and Angle fired Daivari on WWE.com Unlimited. Daivari pleaded with Theodore Long to do something, so Long set up a match between the two as the main event of Friday Night SmackDown. Daivari was mortified by the announcement, but had no choice. During the match, Angle dominated his former manager, but the appearance of Mark Henry and Melina at ringside distracted him long enough for Daivari to hit a low blow. Undaunted, Kurt shook off Daivari’s attack and chased him outside the ring. Angle whipped Daivari into Henry, and after Henry caught him, Angle took both of them down. Back in the ring, the World Heavyweight Champion nailed the Angle Slam and locked Daivari in the Ankle Lock. Melina ran into the ring and jumped on Angle’s back, drawing a disqualification. Angle then put her in the Ankle Lock, but Henry attacked from behind. Henry hit the World’s Strongest Slam, and then nailed the champion with the steel ring steps. After Angle had been sent from the ring, Daivari shook hands with Melina and revealed that he actually screwed Angle. He then announced that he was now the manager of the World’s Strongest Man, and would lead Henry into battle against Angle at the Royal Rumble.

Also on SmackDown, Booker T celebrated his newly won United States Championship. In the ring, Booker claimed that he won it all by himself, and proved that he was the greatest United States Champion of all time. Orlando Jordan took offense to this and hit the ring. Jordan told Booker that he should have let him be the substitute, but was disrespected and laughed at instead. Jordan challenged Booker to a match, but the champion laughed, saying he wasn’t cleared to wrestle. That wasn’t the response Orlando wanted, so he shoved Booker to the ground. At this point, Theodore Long came out, and announced that since Orlando wanted a match, he would fight the man who was Booker’s substitute, Randy Orton, later in the night. Jordan worked over Orton’s shoulder early in the bout, but missed a suicide dive to the floor allowing Orton to gain control. Orton and Jordan then went back and forth, with Orlando continuing to work Orton’s shoulder while the Legend Killer focused on Jordan’s neck and back. As the match neared conclusion, Jordan headed to the top rope, but Booker & Sharmell made their way out. This distracted Jordan, and Orton was able to meet him on the ropes. Jordan pushed him down, but Booker nailed Orlando in the back with his crutch. Jordan was then easy prey for the RKO, and Orton was able to pick up the victory. After the match was over, Chris Benoit rushed the ring as Orton and Booker celebrated. Benoit laid out both men with chops and German suplexes, and it was later announced that Benoit will meet Orton next week in a No Holds Barred, One Fall to a Finish Match.

The Boogeyman also cost JBL once again on SmackDown. JBL took on Lashley, and a worried Jillian accompanied him to ringside sporting a bandage where her mole used to reside. JBL got the best of Lashley and nailed him with the Clothesline from Hell, but the Boogeyman’s music interrupted the match. He came out from under the ring to spook JBL, which distracted the “Wrestling God” long enough for Lashley to recover and nail JBL with the Dominator for the victory. JBL & Jillian ran away before he could do any more damage. Later in the night, JBL barged into Theodore Long’s office, demanding that the General Manager do something about the Boogeyman. JBL complained that he had cost him several matches and scarred Jillian for life, prompting Long to ask if JBL was afraid of the Boogeyman. After JBL said no, Long told JBL that he would go one on one with the Boogeyman at the Royal Rumble. JBL tried to get out of the match, but the General Manager denied his pleas.

In addition, Finlay made his anticipated debut, taking on Matt Hardy. After a hard fought match, Finlay caught Hardy in the ropes, and delivered a series of hard crossfaces. Ignoring the referee’s count, Finlay continued to assault Hardy, and was disqualified for his actions. An irate Finlay asked the ref why he was disqualified, and said that he would give him a reason to disqualify him. Finlay then dragged Hardy to the corner, laid his head on the steel steps and stomped down, driving Hardy into the steel in a brutal display.

The Gymini made their Friday Night SmackDown debut, defeating Paul London & Brian Kendrick.

MATCHES:

Mark Henry defeated Rey Mysterio in a number 1 contender match

World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle defeated Daivari via a disqualification

Bobby Lashley defeated Bradshaw

Randy Orton defeated Orlando Jordan

Matt Hardy defeated Finlay via a disqualification

The Gymini defeated Paul London & Brian Kendrick

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SMACKDOWN # 337
1-27-06 Taped 1-24-06
Bi-Lo Center
Greenville, South Carolina

If the World Heavyweight Champion planned on beating Mark Henry with the Angle Slam or the ankle lock at the Royal Rumble, he’s got a serious problem. The Wrestling Machine powered through a “Champion vs. Champions” Handicap Match against MNM on Friday, but Henry powered out of Angle’s finishers following the SmackDown Match. The WWE Tag Team Champions used teamwork and Melina’s devious tactics to take the upper hand in the Handicap Match, but not even a Joey Mercury uppercut with a roll of quarters could keep Angle down. After kicking out, the Olympic gold medalist delivered a belly-to-belly suplex sending Johnny Nitro over the top rope and to the floor. Then, Angle grabbed Mercury and cinched in the ankle lock. With an intense look on his face, Kurt twisted Mercury’s leg until he had no choice but to tap. Immediately afterward, No. 1 Contender Mark Henry stormed the ring with Daivari at his side. Angle attacked and hit an Angle Slam, but Henry remarkably recovered. Angle then followed with an ankle lock, but Henry pushed up and propelled Kurt out of the ring with a fierce mule kick. Angle stared at his own hands outside the ring, shocked that Henry was able to force his way out of Angle’s most-important hold. If Angle can’t beat Henry with Angle Slam or ankle lock, then will Henry become the new World Heavyweight Champion at Royal Rumble? We’ll find out this Sunday.

Earlier, Henry cemented his status as No. 1 Contender by again defeating Rey Mysterio. The fleet Mysterio had a game plan to chop down his large opponent, but it proved to only be a matter of time before Henry again blasted Mysterio with “The World’s Strongest Slam.”

Also on a blockbuster edition of SmackDown, Chris Benoit faced Randy Orton in a No Holds Barred, One Fall to a Finish Match. This contest was filled with legal foreign objects as well as a multitude of wrestling holds from both Superstars. The tide turned when The Rabid Wolverine attempted a diving headbutt — only to have Orton meet him in mid-air with a trash can lid. Orton then stalked Benoit looking for the RKO, but Benoit pushed “The Legend Killer” away and connected with his own trash can shot. Orton went down, and Benoit locked in the Crippler Crossface in the center of the ring. After a valiant fight, Orton tapped, sending Benoit into the Royal Rumble Match with a wealth of momentum. Prior to the match, Orton informed Booker that with the Royal Rumble Match only two days away, he might be cashing in that favor sooner than later.

The Boogeyman got inside JBL’s head one more time before their match this Sunday. JBL had just hit the Clothesline from Hell on Scotty 2 Hotty when the arena went blood red, smoke rose from the ring’s four corners and worms rained from the sky as The Boogeyman’s music played. JBL looked on in horror as The Boogeyman emerged, frightening JBL into the mass of live, squirming worms. JBL thrashed as worms covered his body before finally escaping. Then, The Boogeyman ate two heaping handfuls of worms from off the ring mat.

In addition, the Mexicools qualified for the Royal Rumble Match by winning a Triple-Threat Tag Team Match against The Dicks and the team of Nunzio & Vito.

Funaki technically beat the fighting Finlay after the referee reversed his decision. Finlay wouldn’t stop his assault on Funaki after winning in impressive fashion, forcing the ref to change his ruling.

MATCHES:

Mark Henry defeated Rey Mysterio

The Mexicools defeated The Dicks and Nunzio & Vito
in a Triple Threat Royal Rumble qualifier match

Bradshaw vs. Scotty 2 Hotty
ended in a no contest

Funaki defeated Finlay
after a reversed decision

Chris Benoit defeated Randy Orton
via a No Holds Barred, One Fall to a Finish match

Kurt Angle defeated MNM
in a Champion vs. Champions Handicap Match

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SMACKDOWN # 338
2-3-06 Taped 1-30-06
T.D. Waternouse Center
Orlando, Florida

Rey Mysterio defied the odds and outlasted 29 other Superstars to win the Royal Rumble, but will he be going to WrestleMania 22 to fight for a World Championship? By winning the Rumble, Mysterio earned a title opportunity at the biggest event of the year, but before Rey could give his celebratory speech on SmackDown, he was interrupted by Randy Orton – the same man that he eliminated last to win the match.

Orton said that there is no way that Mysterio could beat him in a normal match. He said that he only won because of some divine intervention. Mysterio wasn’t buying it, but Orton really got under his skin when he said that Eddie wasn’t looking down on him from heaven, he was looking up at him from hell. Orton challenged Mysterio to a match for his No. 1 Contendership, but before he received an answer, Mysterio snapped and attacked the Legend Killer. Officials stepped in and separated the two, but they would meet later in the main event.

In a blockbuster tag team match, Kurt Angle teamed up with Rey Mysterio to take on Orton and Angle’s Royal Rumble opponent, Mark Henry. Henry and Orton cut the ring in half and used their size to gain the upper hand. With so much bad blood involved, though, it’s no surprise that this one broke down. With Rey dealing with Orton in the ring, Angle knocked Henry off the apron and ran him into the steel post. Daivari confronted Angle, but that just angered the Wrestling Machine, who chased him through the crowd. Henry followed right behind, leaving Rey and Randy in the ring. Mysterio looked to have things going his way and went for a sunset flip. Orton once again used his size advantage, and before being taken over for the pin attempt, Orton sat down on Rey for a pin of his own. Rey looked flabbergasted, and Orton rubbed it in when he said that Mysterio had as much of a chance of beating him as Eddie Guerrero does of coming back to life. Mysterio wasted no time in responding, saying that on behalf of Eddie Guerrero, he accepted Orton’s challenge for his title opportunity at WrestleMania.

That wasn’t the only question left unanswered as SmackDown went off the air. Who would be the World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania 22? As the Royal Rumble went off the air less than a week ago, Undertaker issued a challenge to Kurt Angle for the World Heavyweight Championship. Angle said that Undertaker may be the phenom, but when he steps inside the ring, Angle is a Wrestling Machine. He said that when the bell rings, he has no soul either. Undertaker was unfazed by Angle’s comments, though, and said that at No Way Out, Angle would rest in peace. With that, the lights went out, and the Deadman was nowhere to be seen.

This action-packed edition of SmackDown also featured two Championship matches. Booker T was slated to defend his United States Championship against Chris Benoit. Before the match, however, Booker T informed Theodore Long that his doctor had instructed him not to wrestle because he had aggravated his groin injury at the Royal Rumble. Long said that was fine, but he had to find a replacement to defend the U.S. Championship for him. Booker T said he had the perfect guy for the job – Finlay. Benoit and Finlay didn’t hold anything back as vicious chops were flying everywhere. Benoit hit the rolling German suplexes, and was poised to go to the top rope for the flying headbutt. Booker T saw that and got nervous, getting up from the announce table. With Benoit distracted by Booker, Finlay was saved – but only temporarily. The Rabid Wolvering was able to lock in the Crossface, but before Finlay could tap, Sharmell got in the ring and blasted Benoit with Booker’s crutch, causing a disqualification. Booker T was still the U.S. Champion.

The WWE Tag Team Championship was also on the line as MNM took on The Mexicools. Psicosis and Super Crazy went to the air early and often, and they seemed to have MNM on the ropes. Super Crazy went to the top rope for his patented moonsault, but Melina nailed him with her boot, knocking him out. After the being hit with a foreign object, the pin was academic and MNM retained the Championship.

Plus, JBL addressed the crowd, claiming once again that he was a wrestling god. He said that he didn’t belong in the wrestling ring with freaks like the Boogeyman. With that, Lashley’s music hit, as he prepared for singles competition against Chad Dick. JBL watched the impressive Lashley, who defeated him a week ago, from the outside. The hard-hitting, soft-spoken Lashley made short work of Dick, but he was taken out by JBL’s Clotheseline from Hell right after the pin.

Josh Mathews interviewed the new Cruiserweight Champion, and in turn, new addition to SmackDown, Gregory Helms. Helms said that he doesn’t represent the Cruiserweight Division, he is the Cruiserweight Division. Nunzio confronted Helms, and said that he’s not better than anyone and challenged him for the gold. Helms accepted the challenge, and the two will face off next week.

The Juniors were back in action as well. Tzuki was able to get the win over Octagon Cito in a fast-paced match.

William Regal and Paul Burchill also confronted Theodore Long and network executive Palmer Canon backstage. Regal and Burchill were having a hard time getting along becomes Regal comes from royalty and Burchill is a descendent of pirates. It was agreed that the two would part ways.

MATCHES:

Randy Orton & Mark Henry defeated Rey Mysterio & World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle

Chris Benoit defeated Fit Finlay
via a disqualification

WWE Tag Team Champions MNM defeated The Mexicools

Bobby Lashley defeated Chad Dick

"MIDGETS MATCH"
Tzuki defeated Octagon Cito

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SMACKDOWN # 339
2-10-06 Taped 1-30-06
Facility not announced
Columbus, Georgia

The details of No Way Out began to materialize as Friday Night SmackDown rolled into Columbus, Georgia, this week. At No Way Out, Undertaker squares off with Kurt Angle for the World Heavyweight Championship. However, before getting to the champion, Undertaker faced a sizable bump in the road on SmackDown: the World’s Strongest Man, Mark Henry. Early in the match, Henry overpowered Undertaker, surprising everyone including the Deadman himself. However, Undertaker managed to avoid a charging Henry in the ropes, leading to a frustrated Henry taking out his anger on the ringside barrier. Undertaker followed Henry to the arena floor, where he sent the World’s Strongest Man crashing into the ring steps. The Deadman then took it to Henry, going Old School and throwing everything at his opponent until he got caught in a punishing bearhug. Henry continued to use his size and power to his advantage, but the Deadman made a comeback, and after one failed attempt, he dropped Henry with a chokeslam. It looked like he had the match won, but Daivari called out reinforcements in the form of MNM. The WWE Tag Team Champions attacked the Deadman, drawing a disqualification. Undertaker managed to chokeslam Daivari and fought off MNM and Henry, but eventually succumbed to the numbers game. As the trio beat down the Deadman, Kurt Angle ran out to make the save for his unlikely ally. Kurt unleashed a fury of German suplexes, but ended up having to be saved from a 3-on-1 attack by Undertaker. The Deadman then grabbed the World Heavyweight Championship from the referee, and as a perplexed Angle looked on, he stared down the gold and then gave it back to the champion. Theodore Long then came out, and announced that based on what happened, MNM & Henry would face Undertaker & Angle in a Handicap Match next week.

Earlier in the night, MNM were busy themselves, as they issued an open non-title challenge to any tag team in the locker room. Paul London & Brian Kendrick answered the call, and took it to the WWE Tag Team Champions. London & Kendrick kept the champions off guard with their high flying tactics, but eventually Nitro & Mercury were able to isolate Kendrick. As they set up for the Snapshot, referee Charles Robinson tried to keep the illegal man out of the ring; Kendrick was able to tag London at that time, but Robinson was occupied and missed the tag. MNM then hit the Snapshot as Robinson sent London out of the ring, and the champions were able to pick up the victory.

Last week, it was announced that Randy Orton & Rey Mysterio would square off at No Way Out, with Rey’s WrestleMania opportunity on the line. On SmackDown, Randy decided to set the record straight about the comments he made about Eddie Guerrero last week. As he stood backstage, Randy said that he didn’t really mean what he said, and didn’t know nor care if Eddie was in Hell. He then showed the footage of his comments, but was gone when the camera returned to where he was. Orton then came out to the entranceway in a lowrider, and revealed that he only made the comments to get inside Mysterio’s head. What he really wanted was Rey’s opportunity to main event WrestleMania 22, and this was the best way to go about getting it. He then explained the lowrider, saying that he had a point to make. Orton claimed that people said he was a nasty person for making the comments, but told the fans that Eddie wasn’t a saint either. As the Legend Killer went to read an excerpt from Eddie’s book for proof, Rey Mysterio ran out and attacked him. The two men brawled around ringside, and Mysterio viciously dropkicked Orton’s head into the steel ringpost. The melee was broken up, but the damage had been done.

Two new matches were made for No Way Out, including a United States Championship rematch. In a No. 1 Contender Fatal Four Way Match, Chris Benoit outlasted JBL, Orlando Jordan and Matt Hardy to earn a future championship match. Booker T & Sharmell came out to do commentary on the match, which saw a good amount of teamwork from former allies JBL & Jordan early. Chris Benoit managed to get the Crippler Crossface on both JBL & Jordan at different points, but the hold was broken up by the other man before he could achieve a submission. As the match neared conclusion, Booker could be heard openly rooting for Jordan. JBL hit the Clothesline from Hell on Hardy, but let Jordan make the cover. It was a setup, however, as JBL attacked Jordan and tossed him from the ring. Jordan would later do the same right back to JBL, but this time Matt Hardy broke up Jordan’s pinfall. Hardy hit a Side Effect on Jordan, but as he tried to do the same to Benoit, the move was reversed into the Cripple Crossface. With both JBL & Jordan out of the picture, Hardy was forced to tap out, earning Benoit the victory. After the match, a visibly upset Booker & Sharmell were caught by Theodore Long backstage, who reminded Booker of the outcome. He then set the date for Benoit’s reward, telling Booker that he must defend the gold at No Way Out. Long also said that there would be no substitutions, and if he couldn’t wrestle Benoit on Feb. 19, then he would forfeit the United States Championship. Booker’s night would only get worse from there, as when he & Sharmell tried to leave the arena, they found the trunk of their rental car full of worms.

Also after the match, Kristal caught up with JBL & Jillian. JBL was irate, and said that he should have won the match, and more importantly, should be fighting for the World Heavyweight Championship. As JBL said that he could beat anyone at anytime, Bobby Lashley approached him. The hard-hitting, soft-spoken Lashley offered a simple challenge to JBL: “Me vs. you, No Way Out.” Jillian immediately accepted the challenge for her client, reiterating his earlier bravado. JBL looked slightly stunned, but backed up Jillian’s acceptance, and the match was made official later in the night.

It was also a strange night for the Midgets. Backstage, Palmer Canon and Mr. Kennedy showcased the Midgets to Kristal, but the swashbuckling Paul Burchill cut through the set, interrupting their interview time. He simply said hello to both Kennedy and Canon, leaving everyone confused. Later, as the Midgets squared off in tag team action, Finlay interrupted their match, brutalizing all four participants. After nailing Tsuki with the Emerald Fusion, Finlay said that it doesn’t matter who you are or how big or small you are, he’s on SmackDown looking for a fight.

Gregory Helms defeated Nunzio with the Shining Wizard to retain the Cruiserweight Championship. Former champion Kid Kash watched the match from the entranceway, and it was announced that Kash will get a rematch with Helms for the championship next week.

MATCHES:

Undertaker defeated Mark Henry
via a disqualification

"FATAL FOUR WAY MATCH"
Chris Benoit defeated Bradshaw, Orlando Jordan and Matt Hardy

WWE Tag Team Champions MNM defeated Paul London & Brian Kendrick

Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms defeated Nunzio

"MIDGETS MATCH"
Mascarita Sagrada & Tsuki vs. Octagoncito & Pequeno Violencia
ended in a no contest

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SMACKDOWN # 340
2-17-06 Taped 2-14-06
Scope Arena
Norfolk, Virginia

Just two days before they were set to face off at No Way Out for the World Heavyweight Championship, Undertaker teamed up with Kurt Angle in a Handicap Tag Team Match against MNM & Mark Henry. Knowing they would be facing each other in just a couple of days, no one knew if they would be able to coexist as a team. By the time SmackDown went off the air, that question was answered, but another one was posed. Last week, Undertaker competed in his first SmackDown match in four months against the World’s Strongest Man Mark Henry. The Deadman had things going his way, but MNM ran in and began to triple team him. Angle became Undertaker’s unlikely ally and fended off the attack. General Manager Theodore Long decided to solve the issue by setting up the Handicap Tag Team Match. Angle appeared to be ready to start the match, but Undertaker cut him off and started instead. The Phenom and the Wrestling Machine both wanted MNM and Henry to go down, but they each wanted to be the ones responsible for making it happen. Undertaker got off to the early advantage, but Angle wanted in on the action. The Deadman didn’t look too eager to tag him in, so the Olympic Gold Medalist tagged himself in. Eventually Angle and Undertaker’s game of one-upmanship, combined with the other side’s numbers advantage, took its tool. Henry used his power and MNM utilized quick tags to get on the offensive. But they couldn’t keep the super tag team of the Wrestling Machine and the Phenom down. Undertaker hit a top-rop clothesline, but then Angle tagged himself back in. He hooked the ankle lock on Nitro, Undertaker knocked Henry out with a big boot and that was all she wrote. Angle took his World Heavyweight Championship and got in Undertaker’s face showing him that he’s not afraid of the Deadman. Undertaker stared right back at him and looked like he was going to attack. Instead, the Phenom grabbed Henry by the neck and chokeslammed the World’s Strongest Man. Angle looked somewhat impressed, but then Undertaker hoisted Henry up for a vicious Tombstone. The Wrestling Machine looked on in awe, but then got back in Undertaker’s face showing him that he’s the champion.

For weeks Randy Orton has been demeaning the late, great Eddie Guerrero in an effort to get under the skin of Rey Mysterio. Orton will face Mysterio at No Way Out to try and win his World Championship opportunity for WrestleMania, but his tactics have lit a fire under Mysterio that has never been seen in the master of the 619. Last week Mysterio gave Orton a concussion with some help from the ring post, and was in action again this week. His unlucky opponent was Sylvan. Mysterio wasted no time in punishing the brash Sylvan, taking it to him with an unparalleled aggressiveness. It wasn’t long before he hit the West Coast Pop for the win. After the match, though Randy Orton came out to the stage and got into Rey’s head once again. Orton said that at least Eddie had main evented a WrestleMania, but that Rey is no Eddie Guerrero. Orton said that Rey will never main event WrestleMania, he’ll never be a World Champion and he could never beat the Legend Killer.

Also at No Way Out, Chris Benoit will challenge Booker T for the United States Championship. Lashley laid out a challenge of his own, and will face JBL at the pay-preview. The Rabid Wolverine and the hard-hitting, soft-spoken Lashley teamed up to take on the bruising duo of JBL and Finlay on SmackDown. Booker T, who said he was still trying to legally get out of his match for No Way Out, came to ringside on crutches and, along with his wife Sharmell, joined Michael Cole and Tazz for commentary. This was about as hard-hitting as a tag team match can be. Benoit and Lashley were throwing suplexes around left and right, while JBL and Finlay used their powerful brawling tactics to counter. Benoit sent Finlay into the ring steps on the outside, but as he got back on the apron to get inside the ring, Booker T got up from the announce table and leveled his No Way Out challenger in the back with a steel chair. Benoit hunched over in pain and stumbled back in the ring, and JBL greeted him with a Clothesline from Hell for the win. Booker T got up and danced up the aisle, showing no signs of the groin injury that he said was so serious.

The Cruiserweight Champion, Gregory Helms, was also in action. Ever since coming to SmackDown as the new Cruiserweight Champion, Helms has had an air about him that he thinks he’s better than all of the other cruiserweights. Last week he started to prove his point by defeating former Cruiserweight Champion Nunzio. This week he continued his dominance with a win over Scotty 2 Hotty. But after the match, all of the other cruiserweights united and attacked the champion. Brian Kendrick, Paul London, Psicosis, Super Crazy, Funaki, Nunzio and Kid Kash all stormed the ring and joined Scotty in attacking Helms. Moments later Theodore Long told Helms he’d have a chance to get back at all of them at No Way Out because he’d be defending the Cruiserweight Championship against all eight of them in a one fall to a finish match. Helms thinks he’s better than all of them, and now he has an opportunity to prove it.

Last week, after Matt Hardy came up short in the Fatal Fourway Match, Melina told him that if he scratched her back, she’d scratch his. Hardy had a puzzled look on his face after the interesting proposition. This week he defeated Simon Dean in singles competition and saw Melina in the back after the match again. He told Melina that he’d take her up on her offer, but not the offer to “scratch her back.” Instead, he’d take MNM up on their open challenge offer from last week. Hardy said that he would find a partner to take on MNM at No Way Out.

For weeks, Orlando Jordan has been demanding respect. He’s been sick and tired of no one taking him seriously. So, on SmackDown, he issued a challenge to anyone in the back. He said he could beat anyone so it didn’t matter who answered. With that, the Boogeyman’s music hit, and the most bizarre Superstar in SmackDown history answered the challenge. It only took the Boogeyman mere moments to catch Jordan in a pump handle slam for the win.

MATCHES:

World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle & Undertaker defeated MNM & Mark Henry

Rey Mysterio defeated Sylvan

JBL & Finlay defeated Chris Benoit & Lashley

Boogeyman defeated Orlando Jordan

Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms defeated Scotty 2 Hotty

Matt Hardy defeated Simon Dean

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SMACKDOWN # 341
2-24-06 Taped 2-21-06
Richmond Civic Center
Richmond, Virginia

At No Way Out, Rey Mysterio lost the one thing that seemed most important to him: his WrestleMania main event championship match. On Friday Night SmackDown, he not only got it back, but also picked up a victory in the main event. As the night began, Randy Orton came out to gloat about his victory at No Way Out. He said that it didn’t matter who Rey had cheering for him or who he dedicated the match to, Orton had destiny on his side. The Legend Killer claimed that his father and grandfather were the best wrestlers of their generation, and at WrestleMania, he would fulfill his destiny and win the World Heavyweight Championship to prove that he was indeed a chip off the old block. He said Kurt Angle got lucky at No Way Out, but destiny would overcome luck on April 2. At that point, RAW Superstar Chavo Guerrero ran in and attacked Orton, hitting him with uncle Eddie’s signature Three Amigos and Frog Splash. Chavo was hauled out by security, but the damage had been done. Later in the night, prior to the six-man tag team main event, Rey Mysterio came out to address the issue. He said that he knew Eddie was smiling down on him when he won the Royal Rumble Match, but that he let Eddie and everyone else down by losing his main event opportunity to Orton. He blamed no one but himself, and apologized to everyone. As Rey was ready to leave, General Manager Theodore Long came out to the ring. Long had reviewed the tape, and said that even though Orton cheated to gain victory at No Way Out, the referee’s decision was final, and Orton would indeed compete for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania. However, Long said that while he couldn’t take Orton out of the match, he could add to it, and gave Rey his opportunity back, saying that it would be Orton vs. Mysterio vs. the champion in a Triple Threat Match on April 2. Later in the night, Long announced that Kurt Angle will face Undertaker for the World Heavyweight Championship next week in a No Way Out rematch, a match that may determine who faces Orton & Mysterio at WrestleMania.

In the main event, Rey teamed with Chris Benoit & Bobby Lashley to take on Orton, JBL & Finlay. Early on, Orton & Mysterio were in the ring, and Rey kept the Legend Killer off balance with his speed, prompting Randy to tag Finlay. This brought in Lashley, and the newcomer took it to the man who cost him his undefeated streak. JBL broke up a pinfall attempt, leading all six men into the ring. Benoit even got JBL into the sharpshooter, but the hold was broken. Mysterio’s team remained in control until Rey & Orton were in the ring again, and Orton used a cheap shot to take control. Orton’s team worked over the smaller Mysterio, who tried to mount a comeback but was caught in the apron attempting to attack Finlay outside the ring. After a while, Mysterio finally escaped by sending Orton shoulder first to the ring post, and JBL & Benoit were tagged in. Benoit cleaned house, but a pinfall was broken up after he hit a flying headbutt on JBL. All six men brawled again, and Benoit took JBL outside the ring, where he dropkicked JBL’s hand in between the stairs and ringpost. The move seriously injured JBL’s hand, and he was brought back into the ring. Mysterio then hit the 619, and pinned JBL following a springboard splash.

Also at No Way Out, Matt Hardy & Tatanka defeated MNM in a non-title match. They had a rematch on SmackDown, but this time the WWE Tag Team Championship was on the line. Hardy & Tatanka came out strong, but a distraction from Melina allowed MNM to send Tatanka crashing to the floor and take control. MNM kept Tatanka away from Hardy for the majority of the match, with Melina providing key distractions when he managed to take control. The Native American eventually escaped and was able to tag Hardy, who took it to the champions. After Tatanka broke up MNM’s attempt at a Snapshot, it looked like the challengers had the match won, and Hardy set up Mercury for a Twist of Fate. Once more, Melina interfered, rolling into the ring and grabbing Hardy’s leg. The momentary lapse allowed Mercury to roll Hardy up, and he got the pin with a handful of tights to let MNM retain the gold.

In recent weeks, Gregory Helms has claimed to be the best cruiserweight on SmackDown. This week, it was announced that Theodore Long is making him defend the Cruiserweight Championship every week to back up his words, and this week’s opponent was Psicosis. The two men went back and forth, with Helms cockily taunting Psicosis when he had control of the match. As the match neared conclusion, Helms hit a fireman’s carry facebuster on his opponent, and looked to finish when he was sent into the corner. Psicosis went to the top rope, but Helms caught him. After a struggle, Helms was shoved down, but used the referee to block Psicosis’ attempt to come off the ropes. Helms then ran into the ropes himself, causing Psicosis to tumble from his perch. Helms rolled Psicosis up, and using the ropes for leverage, pinned Psicosis to retain the championship.

Also, Booker T sat in on commentary as The Dicks met the bizarre Boogeyman in a Handicap Match. As Booker & Sharmell complained about Boogeyman and Theodore Long’s mismanagement, the bizarre one made short work of The Dicks, pinning Chad after a Choke Bomb. Boogeyman then stalked Booker & Sharmell, causing them to climb over the barrier and escape through the crowd. Not content with that, the Boogeyman dumped his sack of worms all over the announcers’ table, sending Michael Cole & Tazz packing as well.

Plus, the bizarre antics of the swashbuckling Paul Burchill continued as he tormented former partner William Regal.

Backstage reporter Kristal revealed a different side of her normal conservative self by stripping off Jillian’s jacket and then disrobing herself.

MATCHES:

WWE Tag Team Champions MNM defeated Matt Hardy & Tatanka

United States Champion Chris Benoit, Rey Mysterio & Bobby Lashley
defeated
JBL, Randy Orton & Finlay

Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms defeated Psicosis

The Boogeyman defeated The Dicks
via Handicap Match

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SMACKDOWN # 342
3-3-06 Taped 2-27-06
M.C.I. Center
Washington, D.C.

At No Way Out, Undertaker and Kurt Angle had one of the greatest World Heavyweight Championship matches of all time. Angle looked down and out, but somehow countered the triangle choke into a pin to retain the gold. But the champion didn’t have much time to rest. Just two weeks removed from their instant classic, the Deadman and the Wrestling Machine squared off once again, this time on Friday Night SmackDown. This was hyped as the greatest main event in SmackDown history, and it certainly did not disappoint. Kurt Angle and Undertaker matched the intensity and excitement of their first encounter and then some. Undertaker used his strength to his advantage early on, but Angle’s quickness and technical expertise kept him in it. As the match wore on, Undertaker was able to hook in his triangle choke, but Angle tried to reverse it into a pin, just as he did two weeks earlier at No Way Out. Undertaker showed that he had learned from his mistakes in the first encounter and was able to escape the pinning combination. The Deadman went for a leg drop, but Angle countered into an ankle lock, but the Phenom was able to escape that as well. It seemed like this match could go on forever, as each Superstar seemed to have a counter for every move that was thrown at them. But then Angle made his biggest mistake. The Wrestling Machine went to the top rope and soared through the air for a moonsault, but Undertaker rolled out of the way. The Deadman was like a shark smelling blood in the water and pounced on his fallen foe. He hoisted him and sent him crashing to the mat with a devastating Tombstone. Undertaker made the cover and it appeared as though there would be a new World Heavyweight Champion. Then, just as the referee was about to bring his hand down for the three-count, Mark Henry and Daivari stormed the ring and attacked the Phenom. Henry felt he should have been granted another World Heavyweight Championship Match after the Royal Rumble and thought that Undertaker stole that opportunity. The World’s Strongest Man took it out on the Deadman and cost him the gold. Henry tossed Undertaker to the outside and laid him down on the SmackDown announce table. Henry then climbed on top of the Spanish announce table. He picked up a head of steam and leapt from the one table to the other and came crashing down on Undertaker, giving him the World’s Strongest Splash. If Henry couldn’t be the World Heavyweight Champion, he wouldn’t allow Undertaker to wear the gold either.

Two weeks ago, Matt Hardy and mystery partner Tatanka answered MNM’s open challenge and shocked the WWE Tag Team Champs. Then, last week on SmackDown, Hardy and Tatanka got a rematch, and this time the gold was on the line. Hardy looked to have things going his way and was primed for a pin, but Melina interfered while the referee was distracted. With Hardy occupied with Melina, he got rolled up and MNM retained the Championship. This week Hardy answered MNM’s open challenge once again, but this time his mystery partner was one of the greatest tag team competitors of all time, Road Warrior Animal. Once again, Hardy’s team had things going their way once again. Despite more Melina interference, Road Warrior Animal went to the top rope for the Doomsday Device. Nitro ran in at the last second and broke it up, saving Mercury. With Road Warrior Animal down, MNM nailed Hardy with the Snap Shot and picked up another win. After the match, a frustrated Road Warrior Animal attacked Hardy and left him laying.

Lashley had a chance to exact some revenge on Finlay. Lashley rode his undefeated streak into No Way Out against JBL. The hard-hitting, soft spoken Lashley looked primed to keep his streak intact, but Finlay leveled Lashley with his shillelagh, and JBL picked up the win. Last week, Lashley got his hands on Finlay in a six-man tag team match, but this week they clashed in a one-on-one encounter. The intensity in this one was at an all-time high, and it quickly broke down into an all out brawl. Finlay threw several chairs into the ring and both Superstars swung at each other. Their chairs clashed, and the referee called for the bell for the double disqualification. But the fireworks continued. Lashley and Finlay continued to go at each other’s throats, and officials swarmed the ring, trying to keep them apart. They broke away from security guards several times before finally being separated. One thing is for certain – this one is far from over.

Former United States Champion Booker T was in action against Tatanka. Booker T had all the momentum and connected with his Scissors Kick. Before he could go for the pin, though, Boogeyman’s music hit and Booker became distracted. From out of nowhere, the creepy Boogeyman crept up in the audience, right behind Sharmell who was doing guest commentary at the announce booth. With Booker distracted, Tatanka rolled him up for the win. Booker T had other things to worry about, though, and he and his wife retreated in horror.

The Legend Killer Randy Orton was in singles action against Super Crazy. The Mexicool utilized his high-flying aerial attack to keep Orton off balance, but in the end, the Legend Killer connected with the RKO for the win. Orton seems primed and ready for his World Heavyweight Championship opportunity at WrestleMania 22.

William Regal tried to convince Paul Burchill to ditch his new swashbuckling ways once again. Burchill refused and informed his former tag team partner that his first match would be next week, and if things went his way, it would be against Regal.

It was also announced that at WrestleMania 22 JBL would face the same man the broke his hand and sent him to the operating table – United States Champion Chris Benoit.

MATCHES:

Undertaker defeated World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle
via a disqualification

WWE Tag Team Champions MNM defeated Matt Hardy & Road Warrior Animal

Lashley vs. Finlay
via a double disqualification

Tatanka defeated Booker T

Randy Orton defeated Super Crazy

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SMACKDOWN # 343
3-10-06 Taped 3-7-06
Mobile Civic Center
Mobile, Alabama

Last week, SmackDown featured one of its greatest main events of all time as Kurt Angle defended his World Heavyweight Championship against Undertaker in a No Way Out rematch. Angle escaped by the skin of his teeth at No Way Out, but on SmackDown it looked as though Undertaker would walk away with the gold. After Angle missed a moonsault, the Deadman connected with a vicious Tombstone and went for the pin. But before the referee could count the pinfall, Mark Henry stormed the ring and attacked The Phenom. The World’s Strongest Man left Undertaker laying outside the ring after he flattened him with a mammoth splash through the announce table. Henry had cost Undertaker the World Heavyweight Championship. How would the Deadman respond? What would the Phenom do to get revenge? No one knew, and Undertaker remained silent and out of sight all night long…until the end of the main event that is. Mark Henry and Randy Orton teamed up to take on Rey Mysterio and Kurt Angle in tag team competition. SmackDown fans were treated to somewhat of a WrestleMania preview as both Angle and Mysterio got their hands on Orton. The three of them will face off in a Triple Threat for the World Heavyweight Championship April 2 at WrestleMania. But Henry, like he said at the beginning of the show, refused to be forgotten. Henry was brutalizing everything in sight, including the referee. As the match wore on, Henry delivered a crushing avalanche to senior official Nick Patrick. With the referee incapacitated, Daivari brought a table into the ring. Henry was poised to splash Rey through the table, but Angle came in and made the save. Orton then joined the fracas and attacked the Wrestling Machine. The Legend Killer continued to orchestrate the beating and laid Angle out on the table. Orton then demanded that Henry squash Angle. With that, the World’s Strongest Man leapt off the second rope and came crashing down on the Olympic Gold Medalist through a table. But Henry didn’t have much time to celebrate. The lights went out, and the all-too-familiar gong sounded as fog started to fill the arena. Undertaker was ready to break his silence with a very special message: “You. Me. WrestleMania. Casket Match.” Undertaker laid out the challenge, and Mark Henry appeared ready for the challenge. So, at WrestleMania 22, Undertaker will look to make it a perfect 14-0 on the grandest stage of them all against the World’s Strongest Man Mark Henry in a Casket Match.

While there is still a few weeks until WrestleMania, Saturday Night’s Main Event is only eight days away, and the card continued to shape up on SmackDown. Booker T and Sharmell came to the ring with a bag full of letters. Booker said that they had received letters from the NAACP, PETA, Worm Digest and the President’s Council on Physical Fitness all stating that something had to be done about Boogeyman. Booker T demanded a response from Theodore Long, and the GM responded. He said that Booker could take matters into his own hands when he goes one on one with Boogeyman at Saturday Night’s Main Event. With that, red smoke began to rise out of Booker T’s bag. He went to empty it out, and a pile of worms fell instead of mail. Boogeyman began to come to the ring as a terrified Booker T and Sharmell retreated through the crowd.

JBL also had something to say about Saturday Night’s Main Event. Stone Cold Steve Austin recently conducted an interview with WWE.com and talked about Texas wrestling. Stone Cold said that he gave credit to JBL for being from Texas, but that was all he decided to say. The Wrestling God was extremely offended by the lack of credit given to him by the Texas Rattlesnake. JBL said that he was a better wrestler, a better entertainer and a bigger draw than Stone Cold ever was. With that, he challenged Stone Cold to a Beer Drinking Contest.

This past week on RAW, Theodore Long showed up on RAW, and on WWE.com Unlimited, he announced that SmackDown would also be participating in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania 22. The first qualifying match was held Friday night between Lashley and Finlay. Last week, the two Superstars had a match, but a winner was never determined. Instead, Lashley and Finlay swung chairs at each other causing a disqualification. With so much riding on the match, it’s no surprise that this one broke down as well. In fact, this one never even started. Before Lashley could get into the ring, he and Finlay clashed head-on. Officials and security swarmed and tried to separate them again, but the two brawled all the way out to the parking lot. Finlay bashed Lashley with a steel pipe, but Lashley came back and bashed Finlay’s head into a car eight times. With Finlay laying on top of the car, Lashley attempted to do the unthinkable. The hard-hitting, soft-spoken monster began pushing the car over. Security tried to stop him, but Lashley would not be denied. Showing superhuman strength, Lashley was able to tip the car completely over. Before he did so, though, Finlay was fortunate enough to roll off the car, otherwise he would have been crushed. In an effort to settle the score once and for all, next week they will meet again, and this time it will be a Lumberjack Match.

Theodore Long was a busy man on SmackDown. He also spoke with Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms. He told Helms that he had decided to give him the night off from defending his Championship. However, he didn’t give him the night off in terms of competing. Instead, it was Champion vs. Champion as Helms took on United States Champion Chris Benoit. Helms protested because he had a broken nose, but Long said the match was still on. Benoit managed to lock in the Sharpshooter, but Helms got to the ropes. Helms, disgusted with how things were going, left the ring and headed for the back. But before he could get very far, fellow cruiserweights Kid Kash, Jamie Noble, Brian Kendrick and Paul London came out and forced him back in the ring. It wasn’t long before Benoit slapped on the Crossface. With all that pressure on his broken nose, Helms tapped out and Benoit was the winner.

After weeks of telling his former partner that he looked ridiculous as a swashbuckling buccaneer, William Regal had the opportunity to back up his words as he went one on one with Paul Burchill. Regal seemed to be proving his point at first, but Burchill was able to come back strong and show that Regal didn’t know what he was talking about, picking up the win over his former partner.

Two weeks ago, SmackDown’s hottest backstage interviewer, Kristal, came to the ring on SmackDown to promote the new Divas Magazine. She was rudely interrupted by Jillian who told her to go to the back. Kristal answered back with a swift slap to the face, and this week they clashed in a Divas Uncovered Match. The object of the match was to “uncover” your opponent until they were down to their bra and panties. Jillian got off to a quick start, removing Kristal’s top. But Kristal showed some moves in the ring and came back taking off Jillian’s skirt and then reversing a bodyslam to take off her top.

Road Warrior Animal answered Matt Hardy’s challenge. Last week the two Superstars came up short against MNM in tag team action. After the match, Road Warrior Animal viciously attacked Hardy out of frustration. This week, Road Warrior Animal claimed that he was sick of carrying his tag teams around. He said he carried Hawk in the Legion of Doom, and that Heidenreich and Hardy were both screw-ups. Road Warrior Animal said his days of tag team competition are over and that he was only looking out for himself from now on.

MATCHES:

World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle & Rey Mysterio
vs
Randy Orton & Mark Henry
ended in a No contest

United States Champion Chris Benoit defeated Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms
via a non title match

Bobby Lashley vs Fit Finlay
via a Money in the Bank Qualifier match never officially started

Paul Burchill defeated William Regal

Kristal Marshal defeated Jillian Hall
via a Divas Uncovered match

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SMACKDOWN # 344
3-17-06 Taped 3-14-06
Century Tel Center
Bossier City, Louisiana

Several SmackDown Superstars found a pot of gold at the end of their rainbow, but it was Randy Orton who truly shined on the St. Patrick’s Day edition of Friday Night SmackDown. Prior to the scheduled main event Six-Man Tag Team Match, Orton sat down for a three-way interview with his two WrestleMania opponents, World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle & Rey Mysterio. Orton used the time to berate both men, telling Angle he was a paper champion and calling Rey a charity case. The question was raised whether they could co-exist as a team, and while Angle & Mysterio professed to have each other’s backs, Orton merely ducked the question, saying only that he would dominate.

In the main event, the WrestleMania opponents met WWE Tag Team Champions MNM & Mark Henry. Early in the match, Angle kept MNM off guard, but the champions took control by working Angle’s still injured ribs. Angle managed to tag Mysterio, who came in and cleaned house on MNM before running into Henry. Henry dominated his smaller opponent, and Melina & Daivari even got involved to help their team. As the match neared conclusion, Orton still had not tagged into the match. After Henry missed a splash on Mysterio, Rey was able to tag Angle. The World Heavyweight Champion cleaned house on MNM, tossing them around at will with German suplexes. Angle then hit an Angle Slam on Mercury, but Henry broke up the pinfall. He was rewarded with an Angle Slam of his own, and the World Heavyweight Champion tagged in Mysterio. Mysterio came in and nailed Mercury with the 619, but Orton finally made a blind tag as he did so. Orton then tossed Mysterio over the top rope, and with Angle fighting Henry outside the ring, the Legend Killer made the easy cover on Mercury for the victory. As the remaining members of his team stared Orton down after the match, the question was once again raised if they could co-exist at Saturday Night’s Main Event.

Also this week, two of SmackDown’s three spots were filled for the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania 22. In the first qualifier, Finlay & Lashley met in a Lumberjack Match. While the two could not keep their rivalry in the ring the last few weeks, the SmackDown lumberjacks made sure there was a winner this week. After Lashley dominated the early going, Orlando Jordan held his leg as he attempted a spear, allowing Finlay to attack and spear Lashley into the post. Several of the lumberjacks then took turns attacking Lashley every time Finlay tossed him to the outside. Lashley would make a comeback and toss Finlay over the top rope out to his friends, inciting a brawl. After Lashley took out several of the lumberjacks, Sylvan came into the ring with a chair. Lashley cut him off, spearing the chair back into Sylvan, but the distraction allowed Finlay to grab his shillelagh. With the referee tending to Sylvan, Finlay nailed Lashley with the shillelagh, getting the pin to advance to WrestleMania.

In the other qualifier, Matt Hardy took on Road Warrior Animal. Hardy attacked Animal as the bell rang, but Animal clipped Hardy’s knee to take control. Animal worked the knee for most of the match before Hardy made a comeback, hitting him with two Side Effects. As they fought in the corner, Hardy accidentally caught referee Charles Robinson with an elbow. This allowed Animal to knock Hardy out with brass knuckles and get the pinfall. However, as Robinson raised Animal’s hand, the knucks fell out of from underneat his arm, where he had hidden them following the match; Robinson saw this and reversed his decision, disqualifying Animal and sending Hardy on to WrestleMania.

Another WrestleMania rivalry was intensified when Chris Benoit met Orlando Jordan. JBL sat in on commentary for the match, bringing a cooler with him as a nod to his Beer Drinking Contest at Saturday Night’s Main Event. Late in the match, Benoit hit Jordan with a trio of German Suplexes and locked in the Sharpshooter. Jordan tapped out, but as Benoit celebrated the victory, JBL ran into the ring and nailed Benoit with the cooler, knocking him out.

On the eve of Booker T and Boogeyman’s clash at Saturday Night’s Main Event, the bizarre one Booker and Sharmell another visit this week. Sharmell was scared to accompany Booker to the ring for his match, so Booker eased her fears by giving her a beekeeper’s suit to wear. After Booker dispatched his opponent quickly, the Boogeyman’s music played. Booker & Sharmell looked around in fear, finally hiding under the ring. They soon crawled back out screaming, as the bizarre one himself appeared from under the ring as well. Booker & Sharmell ran to the back terrified as Boogeyman gave chase, stopping along the way to feast on some worms.

Paul Burchill & Kristal defeated William Regal & Jillian in a Mixed Tag Team Match when Burchill pinned Regal.

MATCHES:

Booker T. defeated Jeremy Young

World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle, Rey Mysterio & Randy Orton
defeated
WWE Tag Team Champions MNM & Mark Henry

Fit Finlay defeated Bobby Lashley
in a Lumberjack Money in the Bank Qualifying match

Matt Hardy defeated Road Warrior Animal
via a disqualification in a Money in the Bank Qualifying match

Chris Benoit defeated Orlando Jordan

Paul Burchill & Kristal Marshal defeated William Regal & Jillian Hall
in a Mixed Tag Team match

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SMACKDOWN # 345
3-24-06 Taped 3-20-06
Fed Ex Forum
Memphis, Tennessee

Gaining momentum for WrestleMania 22 was the name of the game as Friday Night SmackDown emanated from Memphis. While not in action, Randy Orton played an instrumental in both of his WrestleMania opponents’ losses. As the night began, Orton came out using Rey Mysterio’s entranceway. The Legend Killer reviewed what happened at the end of his match at Saturday Night’s Main Event, saying that Mysterio and Kurt Angle were jealous of him and that he would become World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania 22. Mysterio was in action first, taking on Finlay. The Irishman dominated most of the match, using his size advantage and sheer brute force to pound Mysterio down. Rey made a comeback and got Finlay in position for a 619; Finlay escaped, and as Rey tried a plancha, Finlay caught him in the ring apron and pounded him on the floor. As the match neared conclusion, Rey made another comeback and finally hit the 619 on Finlay. As Rey set up for the West Coast Pop, Finlay went for his shillelagh; this drew the referee’s attention, and as Rey sprung off the ropes, Orton rolled in to the ring and caught Rey in mid-air with an RKO. Finlay then covered a weakened Mysterio for the easy victory.

In the main event, current champion Kurt Angle met Mark Henry in a non-title rematch from the Royal Rumble. Even without Daivari at ringside, Henry dominated the majority of the match, working Angle’s back and ribs. Angle came back and gave the World’s Strongest Man a German suplex, but stopped to yell at referee Jim Korderas instead of capitalizing. This allowed Henry to hit a massive avalanche, sandwiching Angle and Korderas in the corner. He missed a subsequent splash attempt, however, allowing Angle to apply the Ankle Lock. Orton then ran in and nailed Angle from behind, setting him up for an RKO. However, this brought Mysterio out for revenge, and he attempted to hit Randy with a West Coast Pop. Orton moved, and Rey nailed Angle instead. As Orton rolled out of the ring, Henry tossed Rey to the floor and hit a splash on Angle for the surprising victory. Rey tried to explain the situation to Angle after the match, but Angle shoved Mysterio instead. Rey retaliated by nailing the champion with a 619, and the three WrestleMania opponents stared each other down as the show came to a close.

Bobby Lashley punched his ticket for WrestleMania, winning a Last Chance Battle Royal to earn the final spot in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match. 20 men began the Battle Royal, and the final four were Lashley, Tatanka and MNM. Tatanka & Lashley teamed up to take it to the WWE Tag Team Champions, but the Native American made the mistake of charging Nitro while he was on the ropes; Nitro ducked and pulled the ropes down, sending Tatanka to the floor and leaving Lashley alone with the champions. MNM then proceeded to double team Lashley mercilessly; they were able to hit the Snapshot on the powerhouse, but couldn’t get Lashley over the top rope. Lashley escaped their assault, but charged into the corner and hit the ringpost. In the end, Mercury held Lashley for a Nitro superkick, but Lashley ducked and he hit his partner instead. Lashley then hoisted Mercury up in a gorilla press and tossed him into Nitro, who was against the ropes. The WWE Tag Team Champions tumbled over the top rope together, giving Lashley the victory to send him to WrestleMania.

Chris Benoit also sent a message to JBL just nine days before they meet at WrestleMania 22. JBL said he would take out Benoit himself, but wasn’t cleared to wrestle; instead, he sent William Regal in to battle the United States Champion in a non-title match. Benoit and Regal did some back and forth mat wrestling early until Benoit sent Regal to the floor. The Rabid Wolverine then missed a baseball slide, allowing Regal to suplex him on the floor, then deliver a vicious kick that sent Benoit’s head into the ringpost. Back inside the ring, Regal worked over Benoit with various submission moves, but the champion was able to eventually escape a chicken wing by nailing Regal with a Dragon suplex. The champion then applied the Crippler Crossface, and Regal tapped out immediately. Following the match, Benoit stared down JBL & Jillian, who were watching the match from atop their limousine in the entrance aisle.

Finally, another WrestleMania 22 match was altered when General Manager Theodore Long called out Booker T & Sharmell to sign the contract for Booker’s match against The Boogeyman. Long told Booker that doctors had found nothing wrong with him after Saturday Night’s Main Event, and that he would wrestle on April 2. Booker complained to Long, telling him that he wouldn’t wrestle the Boogeyman; Long responded by saying that he would give Booker a partner of the GM’s choosing to compensate for his “injuries”, but that he would fire Booker if he did not sign the contract. Booker finally relented, telling Long that it didn’t matter who his partner was, he was coming to get Boogeyman at WrestleMania. With that, the General Manager revealed that at WrestleMania, Boogeyman would wrestle the team of Booker T and…Sharmell. Husband and wife stood in the ring mortified as Long returned to the back, but with the contract now signed, Booker & Sharmell will have to face their fears on April 2.

MATCHES:

Bobby Lashley won a 20-Man Last Chance Battle Royal

Finlay defeated Rey Mysterio

United States Champion Chris Benoit defeated William Regal
in a non title match

Mark Henry defeated World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle
in a non title match

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SMACKDOWN # 346
3-31-06 Taped 3-28-06
Kemper Arena
Kansas City, Missouri

The Kemper (Owen Killer) Arena in Kansas City was the last stop on the Road to WrestleMania, and it was also the last opportunity World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle, Randy Orton and Rey Mysterio would have to gain momentum heading into their huge Triple Threat Match at WrestleMania 22. In the beginning of the night it appeared as though the Legend Killer Randy Orton would be the one heading into the biggest event of the year with the upper hand, but when it was all said and done, it was the Wrestling Machine that looked unstoppable. Rey Mysterio kicked off SmackDown by calling out Randy Orton. The master of the 619 was sick and tired of being considered a charity case. He felt he was desesrving of his spot in the WrestleMania main event, and he wanted to prove it to Orton with a one-on-one match on SmackDown. Before Orton could even come out, the Olympic Gold Medalist, Kurt Angle came to the ring. The Wrestling Machine said that after being set up by Orton the previous week, Angle wanted the Legend Killer one-on-one as well. Before long, Orton and SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long both came out to the ramp. Orton got in the heads of Angle and Mysterio and convinced them that instead of fighting him, they should fight each other. Long agreed to make the match, but he also had Orton escorted out of the building by security so he wouldn’t be able to interfere in the match later on. It appeared as though Angle and Mysterio would be in action just two days before WrestleMania, and Orton would get time to rest up. Mysterio and Angle started their match off slow, almost as if they were scouting each other for their WrestleMania Triple Threat Match. Mysterio went for the 619 early on, but Angle had it well-scouted and avoided the maneuver. Angle knocked Mysterio to the outside and rammed him back-first into the barrier. The Wrestling Machine went to a grounded style and wore Rey down with a bodyscissors, continuing to work on the back. Mysterio was able to absorb the punishment and bounced back with a West Coast Pop, but he could only get a two-count. Soon after, he went for the 619 again, but Angle caught him in mid-maneuver and reversed it into an ankle lock. Mysterio was forced to tap out, and the Wrestling Machine emerged victorious in the non-title match. Angle left the ring with a smile on his face, but with Rey down, Orton, who was apparently still in the building, snuck inside the ring and hit Mysterio with an RKO. At first Angle looked stunned at what happened, but a sly smile crept across his face realizing one of his WrestleMania opponents was further injured. Orton yelled at Angle to wipe that smile off his face because at WrestleMania it would be him that was knocked out with an RKO. Angle rushed the ring, and he and the Legend Killer traded lefts and rights. Orton went for an RKO, but the Wrestling Machine reversed it into an Angle Slam. He pounced on the Legend Killer and cinched in the ankle lock. Even though it wasn’t an official match, Orton tapped out. Angle had apparently conquered both of his WrestleMania opponents in the course of mere minutes during the last stop on the Road to WrestleMania.

United States Champion Chris Benoit and Bradshaw both looked primed and ready for their match at WrestleMania as well. Benoit picked up an impressive victory over the Road Warrior, and Bradshaw decimated his opponent with two clotheslines from hell for a win as well. The two met backstage after Benoit’s win, and Bradshaw, as usual, was not at a loss for words. He said that he had defeating one of the greatest technical wrestlers of their generation in Eddie Guerrero and at WrestleMania 22 he will defeat another great technical wrestler in Benoit.

Booker T and Sharmell will have to face their biggest fear – the Boogeyman – at WrestleMania 22, but the bizarre Superstar didn’t want to wait until then. Booker T was facing Paul Burchill in one-on-one action when the worm-loving Boogeyman’s music hit and the mysterious red smoke filled the arena. Booker T went under the ring to look for his nemesis, but when he did so, Boogeyman emerged and threw Sharmell over his shoulders and went to the back. Booker T followed in hot pursuit throughout much of SmackDown. He followed a trail of worms until he finally found his wife in the bowels of Kemper Arena. Booker rescued Sharmell, but the couple continues to be haunted by SmackDown’s most bizarre Superstar.

At WrestleMania 22, the World’s Strongest Man will be the 14th Superstar to try and bring Undertaker’s undefeated WrestleMania streak to a screeching halt. Henry addressed the SmackDown fans in a mock funeral for the Deadman’s streak. He chronicled all 13 of the previous Superstars, but he reminded everyone that those Superstars were not the World’s Strongest Man. Henry said that he took out Batista, pinned the World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle, and at WrestleMania 22, he will end Undertaker’s undefeated streak.

Bobby Lashley, Matt Hardy and Fit Finlay will represent SmackDown in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania 22, but on Friday Night SmackDown, they found themselves involved in a six man tag team match. Hardy and Lashley teamed up with Tatanka to take on Finlay and WWE Tag Team Champions MNM. In the end, Lashley was able to distract Joey Mercury long enough for Hardy to hit him with the Twist of Fate for the win. Lashley and Hardy, along with Tatanka, were victorious, but at WrestleMania it will be every man for himself, and there will be no teammates.

The Mexicools were also in action as they defeated the tag team of Kid Kash & Jamie Noble.

MATCHES:

World Heavyweight Champion Kurt Angle defeated Rey Mysterio
in a non title match

United States Champion Chris Benoit defeated Road Warrior
in a non title match

Paul Burchill defeated Booker T.
via a count out

Tatanka, Matt Hardy & Bobby Lashley
defeated
WWE Tag Team Champions MNM Eddie Mercury, Johnny Nitro with Fit Finlay

Bradshaw defeated Daniel Cross

The Mexicools defeated Jamie Noble & Kid Kash

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SMACKDOWN # 347
4-7-06 Taped 4-4-06
Peoria Civic Center
Peoria, Illinois

On SmackDown, Rey Mysterio made his first-ever defense of the World Heavyweight Championship against Randy Orton. Leading up to the match, several moments were shown highlighting Rey’s path to the top. As Orton stood backstage stretching, he was approached by Kurt Angle. After telling Angle that he would help him find the World Heavyweight Championship, the Legend Killer was surprised when the Wrestling Machine slapped him twice across the face. In the match itself, Rey took control early, using an uncharacteristic mat attack to ground Orton. Rey then sent Orton to the floor, where he hit a seated senton onto the challenger. Back in the ring, Rey got a two count, but Orton took control with a backbreaker shortly after. For the remainder of the match, the Legend Killer cockily pounded his smaller opponent, thwarting all of the champion’s comeback attempts. At one point, Mysterio tried to springboard off the apron, but an Orton dropkick sent him crashing to the floor. However, Rey managed to kick Orton coming off the top rope, and the champion was able to regain control. After hitting another seated senton, Mysterio hit a modified reverse DDT and went to the top rope, but got caught coming down with a dropkick. Randy then set up for the RKO, but Mysterio avoided it with a spin kick. After Orton charged into the steel post, Mysterio hit a pair of 619s and then Dropped Da Dime on the Legend Killer to pick up the victory. After the bout, Kristal caught up with Rey backstage, who said that he would keep proving the naysayers wrong as he shared the moment with his family.

SmackDown also saw the first appearance of a monstrous newcomer. Prior to his match with Undertaker, Mark Henry said that after passing out in the casket at WrestleMania, he saw a vision that Undertaker would suffer a similar fate. Throughout the match, it looked like a false vision, as the Deadman dominated Henry. At one point, the match spilled outside the ring, and Undertaker rammed Henry into the ring steps. As they brawled, Daivari led an unknown giant out to the ring. The man stood over 7-feet tall, and he stared down the Deadman. Undertaker got back into the ring to confront him, but his punches had no effect. Daivari’s charge nailed the Deadman with a monstrous chop and laid Undertaker out with repeated headbutts to the back of his head. Undertaker was left lying beaten in the ring as everyone in the arena wondered who this new monster was.

Gunner Scott got his first SmackDown victory, upsetting Booker T. Prior to the match, Booker T showed Teddy Long a restraining order on the Boogeyman, preventing him from coming within 100 feet of Booker or Sharmell. Booker was all smiles as he headed to the ring for the match, but he seemingly underestimated Scott. The newcomer gave Booker a run for his money early in the match, but the former United States Champion soon took firm control. Just as Booker looked to finish Scott off, Boogeyman’s music suddenly played in the arena. As Booker & Sharmell looked around confused, Scott used the distraction to his advantage, rolling up Booker to get the upset pinfall. Theodore Long then came out to apologize to Booker, but after he did, the General Manager reaffirmed that Scott was the winner of the match.

That wasn’t Long’s only announcement of the night. Before the main event, Long gathered Kurt Angle, Chris Benoit, Randy Orton, Booker T, Matt Hardy, Bobby Lashley and Finlay in the locker room, where he announced the return of the King of the Ring tournament. The tournament will start next week, and the first opening-round match will pit Kurt Angle against Randy Orton.

Chris Benoit may have some business to attend to next week as well, based on the activity after his match. After Benoit defeated Simon Dean, a video played highlighting great Americans of the past. It was soon learned that JBL was behind it, as his face was superimposed onto Mount Rushmore. The video hailed JBL as one of the greatest Americans in history, and said that next week there would be a celebration for JBL’s United States Championship victory at WrestleMania 22.

Also on SmackDown, Paul London & Brian Kendrick made a statement by defeating WWE Tag Team Champions MNM in a non-title match. Before the match began, London & Kendrick interrupted MNM’s entrance, pulling Melina off the apron in the middle of her split. They then took the fight to MNM for several minutes before a referee distraction allowed Melina to trip Kendrick as he ran the ropes. The champions then proceeded to cut Kendrick off from his partner, dominating the match. Kendrick actually had Nitro pinned with a small package, but referee Jim Korderas was again distracted and MNM took control once again. Kendrick was also able to break free and tag London at one point, but again Korderas was distracted and he disallowed the tag. Finally, Kendrick escaped a double suplex attempt and tagged London, and the former Cruiserweight Champion cleaned house on MNM. London hit the dropsault for a two count, but his attack on Mercury was thwarted when Nitro dropped him neck-first on the ropes. MNM tried the Snapshot, but London was able to escape, and a brawl broke out. In the end, London was up on the top rope, but Melina pushed him off, and London appeared to injure his leg. Mercury then tried to follow up with a Boston crab, but London reversed it into a rollup to get the surprising pinfall.

Paul Burchill defeated William Regal once again. Before the match, Regal offered to call off the bout if Burchill agreed to stop dressing like a buccaneer. Burchill refused, but made Regal an offer: if Regal won the match, he would change his wardrobe; however, if Burchill won, Regal would have to dress as he saw fit. Regal agreed, and Burchill told him he would look good dressed as a buxom wench. It will soon be seen if that is true or not, as while Regal dominated the match, Burchill ended up victorious, pinning Regal following a backflip uranage slam. Regal was unhappy after the match, begging Burchill for reprieve, but the English scoundrel will now have to honor his word.

MATCHES:

World Heavyweight Champion Rey Mysterio defeated Randy Orton

Paul London & Brian Kendrick defeated WWE Tag Team Champions MNM
in a non title match

The Undertaker vs. Mark Henry
ended in a No Contest

Chris Benoit defeated Simon Dean

Gunner Scott defeated Booker T.

Paul Burchill defeated William Regal

---

SMACKDOWN # 348
4-14-06 Taped 4-11-06
Resch Center
Green Bay, Wisconsin

Kurt Angle rode an amazing hot streak into WrestleMania 22, but he still found himself at a disadvantage. He was the World Heavyweight Champion heading into the Super Bowl of sports-entertainment, but since it was a Triple Threat Match, he could lose the Championship without even being involved in the outcome. Unfortunately for the Wrestling Machine, that’s exactly what happened when Rey Mysterio hit the West Coast Pop on Randy Orton to become the new World Heavyweight Champion. Angle had been stewing ever since. Always one of the most intense Superstars in WWE, the Wrestling Machine was boiling over with frustration ever since the gold was stolen from him, and he was ready to let it all out on Friday Night SmackDown. Just one week earlier, General Manager Theodore Long announced he was bringing back the King of the Ring tournament, and the opening match would be Angle taking on Orton. Before the match, Angle promised that he would be taking out all of his anger, frustration and aggression out on the Legend Killer – and he lived up to that promise. The Wrestling Machine went for the ankle lock very early on, but Orton was able to kick out of it, sending Angle shoulder-first into the steel ring post. Orton continued to work on Angle’s shoulder throughout the match, but it wouldn’t be enough to keep the Wrestling Machine down. Orton was able to stave off one more ankle lock attempt, but the third time was the charm for the Olympic Gold Medalist. Once Angle applied the ankle lock for a third time, he was able to grapevine the maneuver, and Orton had no other choice but to tap out. But Angle wasn’t finished. Angle refused to break the hold until the referee intervened. The Wrestling Machine appeared to be ready to leave the ring, but he came right back to the fallen Orton and applied the dreaded ankle lock again. The Legend Killer shrieked out in agony, by Angle was relentless. The Olympic Gold Medalist started to make his way up the ramp, but he stopped dead in is tracks once again as a maniacal look crept across his face. With that, Angle stormed the ring once again and applied the devastating ankle lock for a bone-crunching fifth time. Several officials stormed the ring, finally forcing Angle to the back. But the damage had been done. For costing Angle his World Heavyweight Championship, Orton paid a heavy price – a broken ankle.

Friday Night SmackDown also featured a rematch for the United States Championship. Benoit was set to take on JBL in a WrestleMania rematch, but Theodore Long came out to make a modification the match. The General Manager decided that the rematch would take place inside the confines of a 15-foot high steel cage. JBL was irate, but had to defend his Championship nonetheless. Both Superstars made several attempts to escape the cage by climbing out, but each attempt was thwarted. As the match wore on, Benoit called for the door to be opened for a possible escape. Jillian saw this and tried to close the door. The referee got in the way and distracted her, but she spun around and slammed the door shut. The only problem was that JBL had turned the tables, and now he was the one trying to escape. So, Jillian had knocked out her own man. JBL managed to recover, though, and even escaped the Crossface. Then, as Benoit looked to go back on the offensive, JBL was able to land a low blow kick and escape the cage to retain the United States Championship.

SmackDown went off the air last week off the heels of a shocking moment. As Undertaker was battling Mark Henry, Daivari led a mysterious mountain of a man to the ring. The huge monster leveled Undertaker with one swift chop and loomed large over the Phenom. This week Daivari introduced him to everyone as The Great Khali. The mysterious giant is more than 7-feet tall, weighs in at well over 400 pounds and hails from the jungles of India. Daivari said that for 16 years people have called Undertaker the Phenom, but now there’s a real phenomenon – The Great Khali.

Booker T and Sharmell kicked off SmackDown this week. A throne and royal garb was set up in the ring, and Booker proclaimed that he would become the next King of the Ring. Several Superstars such as Bret “Hit Man” Hart and Stone Cold Steve Austin have used the King of the Ring to skyrocket their careers, and Booker T said he was ready to do the same. Booker was so confident that he even put on the cape and crown and danced around with the scepter. Another King of the Ring participant, Lashley, didn’t take too kindly to Booker’s words and stormed the ring, leveling him with a spear.

Matt Hardy, who is another King of the Ring participant, was also in action Friday night as he took on the Road Warrior. Hardy was attacked by the Road Warrior before the bell even ring, but he recovered and nailed his opponent with a Twist of Fate from out of nowhere just moments into the match.

Last week, Paul London & Brian Kendrick pulled off a major upset, defeating WWE Tag Team Champions MNM in a non-title match. This week Kendrick faced off against Johnny Nitro in singles competition. Lightning struck twice on SmackDown, and Kendrick was able to pick up a win with a victory roll.

Also last week, Paul Burchill told William Regal that if he lost to him, then he would stop dressing like a swashbuckler. However, if Burchill won the match, Regal would have to dress like a buxom wench. Unfortunately for Regal, Burchill emerged victorious. So, when the swashbuckling buccaneer came out for his match against Rasheed Brown, he was joined by “Lady Regal”. Regal, dressed in a curly blond wig and a dress, hopped up on the apron with some brass knuckles, trying to cost Burchill the match. But instead, Burchill rammed Brown into Regal and hit him with Walking the Plank for the win. To maker matters worse for Regal, he has to continue dressing like a buxom wench until Burchill loses a match.

MATCHES:

Kurt Angle defeated Randy Orton
in a King of the Ring Match

United States Champion JBL defeated Chris Benoit
in a Steel Cage Match

Brian Kendrick defeated WWE Tag Team Champion Johnny Nitro

Matt Hardy defeated Road Warrior

Paul Burchill defeated Rasheed Brown

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SMACKDOWN # 349
4-21-06 Taped 4-17-06
Savvis Center
St. Louis, Missouri

It was a night of celebration as Friday Night SmackDown emanated from St. Louis this week. After being postponed from a week earlier, JBL held his United States Championship celebration. Jillian came out first, leading a marching band and introducing JBL. However, when JBL got to the ring, he berated Jillian for putting together a second-rate celebration; he then kicked the marching band out of the arena, and after berating Jillian for making another mistake, JBL fired her on the spot. JBL then went on to talk about how he was a true American hero, and said that the fans live through him because they can’t live the American dream like he does. JBL then said that he is America, and represents the people because only illegal immigrants accept Rey Mysterio as their champion. JBL claimed he would take his championship to England next week, and then when he was finished there, challenged the winner of next week’s World Heavyweight Championship match between Mysterio and Kurt Angle. Angle then made his way out, telling JBL that he won an Olympic Gold Medal for America, and compared to him, JBL sucked. Angle then told JBL that Mysterio was a better champion than he ever would be; however, Angle said he would win the gold next week and accepted JBL’s challenge. This brought out Mysterio, who told Angle that while he respected him and looked forward to the match, the championship wasn’t going anywhere. JBL then berated Rey and Angle, saying the mutual respect was making him sick. He turned to Mysterio, saying the World Heavyweight Championship was bigger than he was. JBL then insulted Rey, calling to him in Spanish and saying that he couldn’t see Rey behind the gold. Rey responded by kicking JBL in the knee, and Angle swooped in to deliver an Angle Slam. Rey followed with a 619 on the United States Champion, and Mysterio and Angle stared down as JBL rolled out of the ring.

Booker T had reason to celebrate, as he defeated Matt Hardy to advance in the King of the Ring tournament. Early in the match, the two men battled back and forth until Hardy missed a moonsault press. Booker worked him over, but when Hardy came back and tried a Twist of Fate, Booker pushed him away; Sharmell was on the apron, and she pulled down the ropes, causing Hardy to spill to the floor. Booker then took it to Hardy, but Matt came back with a reverse DDT. Booker managed to avoid a kick and hit the Bookend, but did the Spinaroony instead of covering. Hardy then avoided a Scissors Kick and hit the Side Effect; however, Sharmell jumped up on the apron again, and as Hardy went for the Twist of Fate, Booker gave him a low blow behind the referee’s back. Booker then hit the Scissors Kick to get the pin, advancing to face Kurt Angle in the semi-finals.

Paul London & Brian Kendrick also had a good night, as London defeated Joey Mercury in singles action to mark London & Kendrick’s third straight win over MNM. Mercury took control early in the match by pushing London off the ropes and to the floor, nearly causing London to be counted out. From there, Mercury tried everything to put London away, even using Melina & Nitro to help him out. However, after London was tossed over the top rope, he managed to skin the cat back into the ring and catch Mercury with a reverse hurricanrana for a close two count. London then hit a suicide dive onto Nitro on the floor, but Mercury responded by tossing Kendrick into London. Back in the ring, as London was down, Mercury taunted him by signaling for a Snapshot. As he bent down, however, London rolled him up in a cradle, getting a three count for the upset victory.

Paul Burchill celebrated his buccaneer heritage, he made William Regal do so as well. Throughout the night, Burchill gave Regal a series of outfits to try on, including a teddy bear costume, a chicken suit and a gorilla suit. When they came out for their tag team match against The Gymini, however, Regal was dressed as a fellow buccaneer. Burchill quickly got control of the match and tagged Regal in, and Regal was less than happy about it. The Gymini quickly assaulted Regal, but when he made a comeback, Burchill refused to tag and walk away. Burchill’s actions caused Regal to be left as easy prey, and The Gymini finished him off with the Cross Trainer for the victory.

One man who didn’t have reason to celebrate, however, was The Miz. The Miz came to make his SmackDown debut, wanting to crash JBL’s party. However, as he tried to enter the building, network executive Palmer Cannon stopped him. Cannon said the network found The Miz crude, offensive and uncouth, and as far as the network was concerned, The Miz was cancelled. Cannon then ordered security to escort The Miz from the property.

Chris Benoit & Bobby Lashley defeated Finlay & Orlando Jordan. Benoit went for the Crippler Crossface on Jordan early in the match, but Finlay broke it up, and he and Jordan spent the match working over Benoit’s left arm. Benoit finally escaped by nailing Jordan with a German suplex. The Rabid Wolverine then tagged Lashley, who cleaned house; as Benoit hit a suicide dive onto Finlay on the floor, Lashley quickly nailed Jordan with a spear and the Dominator to pick up the victory.

The Great Khali made his in-ring debut, destroying Funaki in short order.

MATCHES:

Booker T defeated Matt Hardy
ina King of the Ring Match

Chris Benoit & Bobby Lashley defeated Fit Finlay & Orlando Jordan

Paul London defeated Joey Mercury

The Great Khali defeated Funaki

The Gymini defeated Paul Burchill & William Regal

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SMACKDOWN # 350
4-28-06 Taped 4-21-06
Wembley Arena
London, England

Despite Kurt Angle’s best efforts, Friday night wasn’t the right time for Rey Mysterio’s ride to come to an end. Heading into his World Heavyweight Championship match with Kurt Angle, Mysterio said that he was living his dream, and even if Angle ended it, the ride was still worth it. As reported in an exclusive interview on WWE.com earlier in the day, Mysterio said that “if today is indeed my last day as World Heavyweight Champion, I am going to look back and know that I lived out my dream, and enjoyed every minute of it.” Fortunately for Rey, he was somehow able to keep his dream alive in front of a fantastic and gracious capacity crowd in London. Throughout the show, clips of Angle’s previous championship victories were shown, and the six-time champion came into the match looking to make history once again. Everyone knows what Angle will do to get the gold, but the question was what Mysterio would do to keep it? Earlier on SmackDown, Rey acknowledged that he knew he had to avoid the Ankle Lock, and he was successful for the most part. The champion was able to escape from an early attempt, and also blocked several Angle Slam attempts. After Angle ran shoulder-first into the ringpost, Rey had an opening. He Dropped Da Dime and nailed the Wrestling Machine with a 619, but when he went for the seated senton, Angle amazingly caught him in mid-air, countering Rey’s attack into the Ankle Lock. Angle cranked the hold, and as Rey’s hand was raised, just a half-second away from tapping out, Mark Henry inexplicably interrupted the match, perhaps costing Angle his seventh championship. Miraculously, Rey survived again. After breaking up the Ankle Lock, Henry tossed Rey aside and sent Angle to the floor. The World’s Strongest Man then assaulted the Wrestling Machine, splashing him against the ringpost. He then set Angle up on a table and climbed the apron, and after building up a head of steam, he jumped and sent his massive 400-pound frame crashing down into Angle and through the table, injuring Angle’s ribs. But why did Mark Henry do this? Did he simply want to throw his weight around? Was it to prove he’s the World’s Strongest Man, or maybe because he was upset over his loss earlier in the night? His motives are unclear, but Angle wasn’t the only man to feel his wrath on SmackDown.

Henry met Bobby Lashley in a King of the Ring tournament opening-round match earlier in the night, a contest that Lashley was extremely excited about. Before the match, Lashley said that he understood the importance of this night, saying it was the biggest of his career. He knows that winning the King of the Ring tournament would put him in the company of such greats as Bret Hart, Triple H and Stone Cold Steve Austin and perhaps propel him to even bigger things. Earlier in the day in an exclusive WWE.com interview, Henry said that kings have power, and since he is the World’s Strongest Man, he should be crowned king. In the match, which pitted power against power, the hard-hitting newcomer did everything he could to try to take the World’s Strongest Man down. Henry rebuffed him every time, until finally, a series of Lashley clotheslines took him off his feet. The powerful Lashley then used every ounce of strength he had to slam the massive Henry, but his attempt at the Dominator was blocked. Henry charged at Lashley, but Lashley pulled the ropes down; Henry crashed to the floor, hitting his head on the announcers’ table. The force of the blow temporarily stunned Henry, and he was counted out to give Lashley the victory. As he celebrated, however, Lashley was attacked by Henry, who splashed him into the ringpost much as he would Angle later in the night. The World’s Strongest Man then stormed off in frustration. Was it this frustration that led to his later attack on Kurt Angle?

Friday night was a bad night for MNM as well; coming off three straight losses to Paul London & Brian Kendrick, the WWE Tag Team Champions teamed with returning Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms to face London, Kendrick & Super Crazy of the Mexicools in a Six-Man Tag Team Match. Unfortunately for MNM, it was a different combination, but the same outcome. MNM & Helms dominated Kendrick for most of the match, but London was able to make the tag and clean house. It came down to London against Helms, and London reversed a suplex into a small package to pin the Cruiserweight Champion, giving himself and Kendrick four straight match victories over the WWE Tag Team Champions. MNM fumed, and Melina berated them backstage. Mercury & Nitro said it wasn’t their fault because they didn’t lose, but Melina told them that they didn’t win either. She then ran into Jillian, who only made her night worse. Melina mocked Jillian for getting fired, offering her a job doing Melina’s makeup. Instead, Jillian tossed a compact back in Melina’s face, and the two Divas got into a fight, tossing various beauty products at each other. I hate to make Melina’s weekend worse, but in my opinion, I think it’s time to give London & Kendrick a chance at the WWE Tag Team Championship.

Speaking of championships, JBL defended the United States Championship on SmackDown. Last week, the self-proclaimed Wrestling God said he was coming to London to challenge the best England had to offer. When he got there, however, it seemed that JBL was more focused on insulting the crowd. The cocky United States Champion used SmackDown as his platform to insult the great English fans, telling them that they were basically America’s bitch. England’s own William Regal finally had enough, coming out to confront JBL. While he agreed with JBL’s thoughts about Prime Minister Tony Blair, Regal told JBL that the rest of the world saw Americans as lazy, loud-mouthed and cowardly, and then challenged him for the championship. Regal had the crowd firmly on his side, as they considered their fellow Englishman the lesser of two evils; unfortunately, the home field advantage wasn’t enough for Regal, as JBL nailed him with a Clothesline from Hell to win the match and retain his championship.

While the Englishman was unable to pick up a win, Irishman Finlay was victorious over Gunner Scott. Early in the show, Booker T was backstage being interciewed by Kristal. And in typical Booker style, he ignored her question and went on a rant of his own about how he could beat anyone and would win the King of the Ring tournament. Newcomer Gunner Scott interrupted, re-introducing himself to Booker and reminding him of his victory over the 5-time WCW Champion a few weeks ago. Booker told Scott that he could beat him anytime, but not tonight, because he was supposedly under the weather. Booker then coughed a lot, saying he’d find a replacement to face Gunner. It turned out to be Finlay, and Booker, despite his obviously serious illness, sat in to do commentary. Michael Cole asked Booker if he was a hypochondriac; I was wondering the same thing, because it seems to me that Booker gets sick or injured at some pretty convenient times. Scott gave the tough Finlay all he could handle. Frustrated, Finlay grabbed his shillelagh as the two battled on the arena floor. Scott avoided Finlay’s swing, tossing him back into the ring. As referee Nick Patrick tried to pry the weapon from Finlay, Booker got up from his seat and nailed Scott with a vicious kick. He then rolled Scott in the ring, where he was easy prey for Emerald Fusion, Finlay’s modified version of the Death Valley Driver. After the match, Booker & Finlay stomped down the newcomer, but Chris Benoit ran out to run them off. The recent history between Benoit and Booker is no secret, and the Rabid Wolverine does meet Finlay in the final King of the Ring first-round match next week in Cincinnati, but I have to wonder if there’s more to it than that. Benoit was the one who congratulated Scott after his victory over Booker weeks back, and now he has come out to save the newcomer; perhaps the Rabid Wolverine sees Gunner as a potential protégé?

SmackDown also saw the re-emergence of Native American Superstar Tatanka. SmackDown camera visited the Lakota tribe, which was represented by the likes of Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. A current Lakota chief spoke of their history and culture, and it was announced that a new warrior would soon be forged in Tatanka. Apparently next week, Tatanka will be initiated into the tribe, which is a huge honor.

The Great Khali spoke once again. Daivari led his massive charge to the ring, and told the fans that the rumors were true. The Great Khali has broken Undertaker’s spirit, and while the Deadman always rose from the ashes to vanquish his assailants, this time it was different. Daivari said Undertaker trembled in fear of Khali, who needed no weapons other than his bare hands to annihilate the Deadman. He then said that Undertaker was gone for good because he was afraid of The Great Khali. It has been weeks since anyone has seen or heard from the Deadman; could Daivari be right? Has Undertaker’s spirit truly been broken?

MATCHES:

World Heavyweight Champion Rey Mysterio vs. Kurt Angle
ended in a No Contest

Paul London, Brian Kendrick & Super Crazy
defeated
WWE Tag Team Champions MNM & Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms

Bobby Lashley defeated Mark Henry by countout
in a King of the Ring Tournament Match

United States Champion Bradshaw defeated William Regal

Fit Finlay defeated Gunner Scott

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SMACKDOWN # 351
5-5-06 Taped 5-2-06
Nationwide Arena
Cincinnati, Ohio

World Champion Rey Mysterio has many enviable qualities, but being a man of his word might be the one that ends up costing him the World Heavyweight Championship. As Friday Night SmackDown began in Cincinnati this week, Rey came out to the ring and said that every day he has the World Heavyweight Championship is a gift. As he was about to share his thoughts on last week’s match with Kurt Angle, Rey was interrupted by his Judgment Day opponent, United States Champion JBL. In typical JBL fashion, the transplanted New Yorker began to degrade Rey because of his Mexican heritage, comparing the World Champion to a masked illegal immigrant. He then said that while illegals have a place in JBL’s America (like mowing lawns and taking out trash), Rey doesn’t deserve to be champion. When Mysterio told JBL that he’d fight anybody at any time, the United States Champion seized the opportunity, goading Rey into a match against Mark Henry. Being a man of his word, Mysterio had no choice but to face the World’s Strongest Man. The non-title match was made, and JBL sat in on commentary. Rey tried to use his quickness to avoid Henry, but the World’s Strongest Man used his overwhelming size and power advantage to keep Rey down. Miraculously, Rey was able to escape Henry’s attack, nailing the World’s Strongest Man with a Seated Senton and a 619. However, when Rey springboarded off the ropes again, Henry was ready, catching the champion and dropping him with a World’s Strongest Slam for the three count, earning a pinfall over the World Heavyweight Champion. The victory wasn’t enough for Henry, though. He tossed Rey out of the ring and dragged him up the entranceway. With his motive for attacking Kurt Angle last week still unclear, Henry appeared to try to injure Rey the same way. With Rey prone on the floor, Henry climbed up onto the stage and prepared to splash his 400 pound frame onto the World Champion. Thankfully for Rey, JBL came down and stopped the World’s Strongest Man from finishing the deed, promising Henry the first chance at the World Heavyweight Championship after Judgment Day. Seizing another opportunity to hold Rey at his word, JBL told the beaten champion that next week in San Diego, he will take on the 7 foot 3, 420 pound Great Khali. San Diego is Rey’s hometown, and all of his family and friends will be in attendance next week. Rey is a man of his word, but is faced with an opponent literally twice his size; will his family be watching him get slaughtered next Friday night?

Mysterio wasn’t the only champion scheduled for action Friday night, as WWE Tag Team Champions MNM were set to defend their gold against Paul London & Brian Kendrick. The challengers, who hold four consecutive wins over the champions, entered the ring first. Melina then came out alone, and as she was set to do her signature entrance, she waved to the back. Instead, Mercury & Nitro came from behind, ambushing the challengers with their championships. The match never officially got underway, as MNM brutalized London & Kendrick, nailing them each with a Snapshot before walking away. I said it last week, and I’ll say it again: it seems to me that MNM are scared of London & Kendrick, and will do anything to protect their championship.

Also on SmackDown, Fit Finlay took on Chris Benoit in the final opening-round match of the King of the Ring Tournament. Both men are veterans and accomplished mat wrestlers, and the majority of the match saw them trying to out-wrestle each other. Despite being busted open, Benoit avoided a charge by Finlay late in the match, nailing him with a trio of German Suplexes. After Benoit missed a flying headbutt, Finlay grabbed his weapon of choice, the trusty shillelagh; the Rabid Wolverine was able to avoid an attack and send Finlay to the floor, and the Irishman dropped the weapon on his way out. As referee Nick Patrick turned his back to the action to dispose of the shillelagh, Finlay grabbed a chair from ringside and jammed it into Benoit’s throat. He followed that up quickly with his signature Celtic Cross, getting the pin to advance in the tournament. Next week, the fighting Irishman will face a man who has never beaten him, Bobby Lashley, in the semi-finals.

King of the Ring finalist Booker T was also in action, in a rematch against Gunner Scott. Gunner defeated Booker three weeks ago, and once again the young protégé of Chris Benoit gave the 5-time WCW Champion all he could handle. In the end, it was Sharmell’s interference that propelled Booker to victory; Sharmell tripped Gunner as he ran the ropes, allowing Booker to nail the Scissors Kick for the pinfall. After the match, Booker stood on the announcers’ table and said that it didn’t matter whether it was Finlay or Chris Benoit, he would win the King of the Ring tournament and everyone will bow down to King Booker. Later in the night, after Finlay had defeated Benoit, Bobby Lashley came to Booker’s dressing room. He took exception to the fact that Booker forgot to mention his name in the earlier post-match speech. Booker tried to brush the youngster off, telling Lashley he was no match for him, and that he’s never beaten Finlay anyway. The soft-spoken Lashley simply stated that he will beat Finlay next week and then beat Booker in the finals at Judgment Day to win the tournament. To punctuate his point, Lashley finished his statement off by using Booker’s signature phrase “Can you dig it, sucka?” He may be soft-spoken, but even though he’s never beaten Finlay, Lashley has something to prove next week; in my estimation, the Bookerman might want to think twice about overlooking Lashley.

In addition to the King of the Ring finals, two new matches were made for Judgment Day. Rumors had swirled that Jillian challenged Melina for Judgment Day, and that match was made official.

Theodore Long caught up with Daivari and The Great Khali backstage, telling them that Khali had been challenged by Undertaker for a match at Judgment Day. Long handed Khali a contract, and later in the night, the match was made official. Khali later used SmackDown to show off his strength; the massive newcomer interrupted a Triple Threat Match to determine the number one contender for the Cruiserweight Championship, destroying participants Nunzio, Super Crazy of the Mexicools and Kid Kash. We know what Khali is thinking heading into Judgment Day, but you have to wonder…what state of mind is Undertaker in? Did he make the right choice? After watching Khali destroy three men on Friday night, is there any doubt in the Deadman’s mind?

Tatanka’s initiation onto the Lakota Tribe began this week, as he took part in the Inipi, a ceremony of purification. SmackDown cameras caught up with several Lakota tribe members, who described what the ceremony entails. The Native American warrior successfully completed the Inipi purification ritual, and next week, he will officially join the Lakota tribe.

The Gymini continued to look impressive, defeating Scotty 2 Hotty & Funaki in quick fashion.

MATCHES:

The Gymini defeated Scotty 2 Hotty & Funaki

Mark Henry defeated World Heavyweight Champion Rey Mysterio
in a Non Title Match

WWE Tag Team Champions MNM vs. Paul London & Brian Kendrick
this match never got underway

Finlay defeated Chris Benoit
in a King of the Ring Tournament Match

Booker T defeated Gunner Scott

Kid Kash vs. Super Crazy vs. Nunzio
ended in a No Contest

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SMACKDOWN # 352
5-12-06 Taped 5-9-06
I Pay One Center
San Diego, California

In front of his friends, family and a hometown crowd in San Diego, Rey Mysterio proved he was a man of his word…but all he got to show for it was a beating. After sending Mark Henry after the World Champion last week, JBL lined up The Great Khali as Rey’s opponent. As the night began, the United States Champion came to the ring, ripping on the southern California fans. He laughed at Rey’s loss to Henry last week, and said the underdog champion had more heart than brains. JBL’s comments then took a disgusting turn, as he began to insult Mysterio’s family. He said that after he defeated the “third amigo” at Judgment Day, he would let Rey’s son Dominick shine his shoes, and allow Rey’s wife to work in his kitchen in a short dress and high heels. To stay gainfully employed, however, JBL said that Rey would have to sell drugs or do drive-by shootings like his homies. The World Champion finally had enough at that point, storming out of the back to attack JBL. Referees were able to separate the two, but that would end up being the highlight of Rey’s night. JBL came out to do commentary for the main event, and Mysterio attacked him once again. However, when The Great Khali finally made his way out for the match, everything changed. Khali toyed with Rey, tossing the much smaller champion to the floor several times. Rey tried to hit a springboard dropkick to fell the giant, but simply bounced off of Khali’s massive frame. Khali then picked Rey up in a two-handed choke, and after holding the champion in the air for several seconds, he dropped him viciously to the mat. Khali then placed one foot on Rey’s head, getting the decisive pinfall over the World Champion. After the match, JBL came into the ring, asking the groggy champion if he was still a man of his word; he then mockingly told Rey to wait and see who he has lined up next week before slapping the champion as SmackDown went off the air. After already throwing Mark Henry and The Great Khali at Mysterio, who could JBL have in store for him next week?

Throughout the night, the Judgment Day card continued to take shape, as two new matches were made and one was finalized. Kurt Angle made a surprising appearance, demanding that Theodore Long give him a match with Mark Henry on SmackDown. Long told him that he couldn’t make the match, because Kurt wasn’t cleared to wrestle, but said that he could face the World’s Strongest Man at a time when he would be cleared: Judgment Day. Angle was happy, and after getting what he wanted, was escorted out of the arena by security. Later in the night, Henry “responded” by destroying Paul Burchill in a one-sided match. Before finishing off the buccaneer, the World’s Strongest Man grabbed the microphone and told everyone that Angle would suffer the same fate on May 21 that Burchill was suffering; he then dropped Burchill with the World’s Strongest Slam to punctuate his statement.

The King of the Ring final match was filled out, as Bobby Lashley got his first-ever victory over Finlay in the semi-finals. Prior to their match, Booker T came to the ring to give Kurt Angle one last chance to face him, but with Angle having been escorted from the building, the “opportunity” was wasted. As a result, Booker “officially” advances to the finals of the King of the Ring tournament. I, for one, am surprised that he made it through this one without injuring himself. Congratulations, Booker! After Finlay vs. Lashley began, Booker & Sharmell returned to watch the match, with Booker taking a seat on the King of the Ring throne positioned in the entrance aisle. The hard-hitting Lashley and the tough Irishman Finlay pounded each other throughout the bout, with Finlay grounding Lashley to keep him at bay. Lashley eventually used his power to overcome Finlay’s ground-and-pound tactics, but ran into a knee when he tried to finish Finlay with a spear. At that point, Finlay grabbed a chair and tossed it into the ring. Much like last week, it was a decoy, as when referee Nick Patrick went to dispose of the chair, Finlay grabbed his shillelagh. This time, Patrick saw through the plan, and grabbed Finlay’s weapon away. Always thinking, Finlay waited until Patrick turned his back to dispose of the shillelagh, which gave him the opportunity to once again grab the chair. He nailed Lashley with it, but the blow only seemed to pump Lashley up. Finlay tossed the chair and turned around, right into the path of a speeding Lashley, who nailed the Irishman with a vicious spear. That spear got Lashley the three count, giving him his first-ever victory over Lashley and punching his ticket to the finals. When the match was over, the normally soft-spoken Lashley grabbed a microphone and addressed Booker, telling the 5-time WCW Champion that he was sitting in his seat.

A Cruiserweight Championship match was also made for Judgment Day, as Super Crazy of the Mexicools won a Triple Threat No. 1 Contender’s Match. Just one week after their match was interrupted by The Great Khali, the cruiserweights showed great resolve in trying again, and Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms sat in on commentary as Crazy, Nunzio and Kid Kash did battle. As the match went on, Helms told Michael Cole & Tazz that he didn’t care who he faced, and would take on all of them if he had to. As the match neared conclusion, Nunzio had Crazy on his shoulders, and Kash came flying off the top rope. Crazy somehow ducked Kash’s flying attempt while perched on Nunzio’s shoulders, rolling up the former Cruiserweight Champion to get the pinfall and the match with Helms on May 21.

Later in the night, Nunzio was backstage with Vito, and the Sicilian enforcer told his paisan that he would take him out on the town to forget about the loss. When Vito left, however, Orlando Jordan approached Nunzio; Jordan told him that when SmackDown was overseas, he saw a guy who looked like Vito at a club, but the guy was dressed in drag. Nunzio took offense and told Jordan to watch his mouth.

Earlier in the week, a WWE Tag Team Championship match was announced for Judgment Day, and champions MNM came out on SmackDown to talk about it. They gloated about laying out Paul London & Brian Kendrick with a series of Snapshots, but as Melina said that MNM would humiliate them again at Judgment Day, she was interrupted by her own opponent on May 21, Jillian. After Melina and Jillian traded insults, MNM’s former fixer said they didn’t have to wait until Judgment Day and stormed to the ring. It was seemingly all a set-up, however, as London & Kendrick emerged from behind MNM. Taking a page from the champions’ playbook, the challengers at Judgment Day attacked MNM from behind and ripped off their pants. As Melina scurried around horrified, Jillian then came in and pulled off her skirt, leaving MNM in their underwear. Jillian, London & Kendrick then gloated in the entrance aisle as MNM was left embarrassed in the ring. MNM has no choice but to face London & Kendrick on May 21, and in my opinion, the champions are in a lot of trouble.

Tatanka’s initiation into the Lakota Tribe continued. He took part in sacred Hunka ceremony, a ritual that welcomes a new member into the tribe. Next week, the Native American Superstar will take part in the Lakota warrior ceremony.

The Gymini also scored another impressive victory, destroying Mike Wellington & Joey Ryan in quick fashion.

MATCHES:

The Great Khali defeated World Champion Rey Mysterio
in a Non-title Match

Bobby Lashley defeated Finlay
via a King of the Ring tournament match

Super Crazy defeated Nunzio and Kid Kash
in a Triple Threat Match

Mark Henry defeated Paul Burchill

The Gymini defeated Mike Wellington & Joey Ryan

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SMACKDOWN # 353
5-19-06 Taped 5-16-06
Tingley Coliseum
Albuquerque, New Mexico

"When you play with fire, you get burned." Those were the ominous words spoken by JBL when SmackDown kicked off from Albuquerque, NM. But no one knew just how ominous those words would turn out to be. JBL has made it his mission to put World Champion Rey Mysterio through hell in the weeks leading up to their Championship match this Sunday at Judgment Day. Mysterio said that he will take on all comers, so JBL has made him eat his words. JBL has fed Mysterio to Mark Henry and the Great Khali the last two weeks, but he said those challenges would be nothing compared to what he had in store for his “amigo” just two days before Judgment Day, and boy was he right. The surprise opponent was none other than the deranged Kane. In a WWE.com Unlimited exclusive this Monday during RAW, JBL contacted Mr. McMahon. It was unknown what the phone call entailed, but the mystery was solved after Mysterio came to the ring and awaited his challenger. JBL said that after all of the beatings Rey had endured, he didn’t look so well. He said that Rey probably didn’t even know what day it was. Mysterio, not realizing what was about to happen, answered JBL and said, “May 19th.” With that, the Big Red Monster’s music hit and Kane hit the ring. For the last several weeks on RAW, any time someone mentioned the date May 19, Kane would go ballistic. The date, which also coincides with the release date of his new movie See No Evil, has some other unknown significance in Kane’s life, and it has consumed him. Kane immediately started to manhandle the World Champion with a wide array of power moves, tossing him around the ring like a rag doll. Mysterio was bleeding from the mouth, but all of a sudden, Kane began hearing voices in his head again, and the voices were talking about May 19. The Big Red Monster fell into another psychotic trance and tried to shake off the voices. Mysterio was able to hit a 619, but nothing could stop Kane. He came back with a monstrous chokeslam, but he was still dealing with the voices. JBL berated Kane and told him that he had to finish the job and destroy Mysterio. But JBL made a huge mistake when he also accidentally said the words May 19. JBL’s words seemed to snap Kane out of his trance, and he turned his anger towards the United States Champion instead, and leveled him with a monstrous chokeslam as well. Will Rey Mysterio be able to persevere and overcome the last three weeks of hellacious beatings to retain the World Championship? Or will JBL’s tortuous plan pay off and lead to a victory at Judgment Day?

But the World Championship won’t be the only prestigious honor up for grabs Sunday. A new King of the Ring will be crowned Booker T faces Lashley in the finals. After making short work of Jared Steele, Lashley took a long look at the throne. Before Lashley was done looking at what might become his at Judgment Day, Booker T came out for his tag team match. The two engaged in an intense stare-down. Booker has been saying for weeks that it’s only a matter of time before he becomes king, but it looked like Lashley had other plans. Before Booker T could concentrate on Lashley, he had to team up with Finlay to take on Chris Benoit & Gunner Scott. Last month, Scott made his SmackDown debut, shocking Booker T by pinning the five-time WCW Champion. But Booker remains unfazed by the outcome of that match. “Gunner something,” is how Booker T referred to Scott in an exclusive interview with WWE.com earlier in the day. Finlay also appeared confident before his match. When asked by WWE.com in another exclusive what his strategy would be against Benoit, the fighting Irishman simply replied, “I’m going to pin him.” Perhaps Finlay and Booker were both a little too overconfident, as they came up on the losing end of the match. As Booker T went to work on Scott, Lashley reemerged on the stage, and proudly sat on the throne as if he were the new king. Sharmell and Booker became extremely agitated at Lashley’s audacity, and Gunner took advantage. With Booker’s back turned to him, the newcomer pinned him with a crucifix for the 1-2-3. Heading into Judgment Day, has Lashley gotten inside Booker T’s head?

Speaking of getting inside your opponents’ heads, Brian Kendrick & Paul London had the opportunity to go five for five in matches against WWE Tag Team Champions MNM. Kendrick & London will finally get their Championship Match at Judgment Day, but two days before that, they teamed up with Jillian to take on Mercury, Nitro and Melina in a Six Person Mixed Tag Team Match. MNM spent much of the match working on Kendrick’s left knee, and keeping the high-flier grounded seemed to make the champs cocky and confident. But Kendrick persevered, and eventually he and London cleaned house of Nitro and Mercury. With the champs on the outside, Jillian, who will face Melina at Judgment Day, hit a high-cross body off the top rope for the win. For the fifth straight time, London & Kendrick defeated MNM in a match. Can the high-octane team make it an amazing six in a row against MNM to become WWE Tag Team Champions? If they can, it could very well be the most impressive feat in the tag team division in decades.

Mark Henry tried to pick up some momentum heading into the pay-per-view as well. Henry will go one-on-one against Kurt Angle at Judgment Day, but he faced Matt Hardy on SmackDown. Hardy gave it his all, but Henry’s size and strength was too much to overcome as he fell victim to the World’s Strongest Slam. After the match, Henry vowed that at Judgment Day he would finish what he started with the Wrestling Machine. Earlier in the night, Angle also had words for Henry in a backstage interview. Angle said, “You’re the World’s Strongest Man, but I’m the world’s greatest wrestler.” Will Angle be able to back up his words at Judgment Day and get revenge on the World’s Strongest Man?

The Great Khali also had words…at least I think that’s what he had…for Undertaker. Several weeks ago, Khali dismantled Undertaker like no one else in sports-entertainment history. Undertaker hasn’t been seen since he was laid out by the monster of a man. Yet, for some reason, the Deadman has challenged the Great Khali for Judgment Day. Rumors have been swirling that Undertaker has lost his spirit. But if that were true, why would the Phenom have issued the challenge? Was it a big mistake? According to Khali it was, as he said, “Undertaker, rest in peace.”

We also learned that Tatanka has finished his initiation into the Lakota tribe. The proud warrior will make his SmackDown return next week.

Nunzio had another interesting backstage encounter. His good buddy Vito told him that he had set them up with a double date with the hottest girls you could ever find. Before Nunzio could leave and finish getting ready for his big date, he ran into the swashbuckling Paul Burchill. Seemingly in need of a refill for his flask, he told Nunzio that he had spotted a rather large woman at the store last week, and she looked familiar. When he came face to face with “her”, he said it looked eerily similar to Vito. Last week Orlando Jordan had a similar story for Nunzio, but the former Cruiserweight Champion doesn’t believe the accusations.

MATCHES:

Brian Kendrick, Paul London & Jillian defeated MNM

Lashley defeated Jared Steele

Chris Benoit & Gunner Scott defeated Booker T. & Fit Finlay

Mark Henry defeated Matt Hardy

World Champion Rey Mysterio vs. Kane
ended in a no contest

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SMACKDOWN # 354
5-26-06 Taped 5-23-06
Robobank Arena
Bakersfield, California

John Bradshaw Layfield’s big mouth backed him into a corner on Friday night, and ended up costing him big time. As a result of his loss to Rey Mysterio, Bradshaw must be a man of his word and leave SmackDown. Bradshaw came out at the beginning of SmackDown, claiming that Rey Mysterio’s win at Judgment Day was a fluke. He told Rey that if he was still a man of his word, he should come out and offer a rematch. The World Champion did come out and said he was indeed a man of his word who would take on all comers; but instead of offering a rematch, he called Bradshaw out for not defending the United States Championship. When the Wrestling God told the World Champion that he would indeed face anybody, Rey used a bit of his JBL’s own psychology and introduced Bobby Lashley as his challenger for the United States Championship. Bradshaw seemed to want nothing to do with the soft-spoken powerhouse, and in the end, that concern would be justified. Bradshaw tried to finish Lashley quickly with the Clothesline From Hell, but the challenger ducked and speared the champion. Three seconds later, Lashley was the new United States Champion. Immediately after the match, Bradshaw barged into Theodore Long’s office; he threatened the General Manager, leading Long to threaten Bradshaw with the same fate Melina & Nitro suffered at Judgment Day. When the former champion calmed down slightly, he told Long that Judgment Day was a fluke and he needed a rematch, even claiming that he would walk away and quit if he couldn’t beat Mysterio. For the second time in 30 minutes, Bradshaw’s mouth got the best of him. Long immediately made Bradshaw vs. Mysterio for the World Heavyweight Championship as the main event, with the stipulation that JBL would quit and leave SmackDown if he lost. Before the match, Chavo Guerrero told Rey that he would be in his corner, and in the end, Chavo ended up playing an unwitting role in the end of JBL’s SmackDown career. Bradshaw attacked Rey as he entered the ring, and as Chavo stood on the apron, the challenger sent the champion crashing into his friend. Bradshaw then hit the Clothesline From Hell and covered Rey; the champion got his foot on the ropes, but referee Jim Korderas didn’t see it and counted the pinfall. It appeared as though Bradshaw was the new World Heavyweight Champion, but when Korderas saw Rey’s foot still on the ropes, he reversed his decision and restarted the match much to JBL’s chagrin. For the rest of the bout, Bradshaw threw everything he had at Mysterio, but somehow the champion would not be held down. Bradshaw loosened a turnbuckle pad at one point, but Korderas saw it and tried to repair the damage. The challenger used the opportunity to send Rey crashing into the referee, knocking him out. After some more chicanery, Bradshaw nailed Rey with a low blow and went to the floor for a chair. Chavo tried to stop him, taking a bullet for Rey when Bradshaw nailed him with the weapon and entered the ring. The challenger stalked Rey in the corner, but the champion avoided his swing and kicked JBL low. With the referee still down, Mysterio nailed Bradshaw with a Tornado DDT on the chair and set him up for the 619. That connected, as did Dropping Da Dime, and somehow Mysterio got the pinfall to retain the World Heavyweight Championship and end Bradshaw’s SmackDown career. The furious Bradshaw’s bad night was then capped off when the crowd serenaded him with a chant of “Na Na Na Na, Hey Hey Hey, Goodbye” as the show went off the air.

It also turned out to be a bad night for Chris Benoit. He took on Mark Henry, who had Academy Award-winning rappers Three 6 Mafia perform his theme song live before the match. Benoit tried to chop down the World’s Strongest Man during the match, but was unable to do so. In fact, Henry dominated the Rabid Wolverine, escaping several attempts at the Crippler Crossface. In the end, one escape sent Benoit to the floor, where the World’s Strongest Man’s assault got even more vicious. He set the Rabid Wolverine up against the ringpost, and just like he did to Kurt Angle, Henry repeatedly splashed Benoit into the steel. Referee Nick Patrick stepped in and disqualified Henry, who said he would stop the assault only when he was ready. When it was finally over, Benoit was left bloody and broken in the ring. Henry didn’t win the battle but certainly seems to have won the war, seriously injuring yet another top SmackDown Superstar with his vicious power. I have to wonder…who will stop his path of destruction? Or more fittingly, who can?

SmackDown’s King was officially crowned. William Regal introduced the 2006 King of the Ring, Booker T, and his wife Sharmell, and they came to the ring on a mobile throne. After Regal sung the praises of the new King, Booker was crowned by Sharmell. In his first royal decree, King Booker introduced Sharmell as the new Queen and said that they would rule with an iron fist, proclaiming that all the SmackDown Superstars would bow down to their monarch. Well Booker, as one of your “loyal subjects,” I’d just like to congratulate you on not injuring yourself during the coronation.

Tatanka made his return to SmackDown after being initiated into the Lakota tribe. In his return, the Native American Warrior defeated Simon Dean. Tatanka finished off the fitness guru with his new signature move, the “Wykea,” which translated from the Lakota language means Thunder. It was the first step in a new journey for Tatanka, who will carry the strength, honor and pride of the Lakota with him on SmackDown.

New WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick also had a good night, defeating Nunzio & Vito in a non-title match. Before the bout, Nunzio had to make sure Vito’s mind wasn’t wandering from all the allegations of his cross-dressing activities. Once they got to the ring it was all business, but they couldn’t stop the roll of the new champions. In their first match since capturing the gold, the high-flying champions got the win when Kendrick finished Nunzio off with his signature Sliced Bread No. 2.

And while it was learned that Mr. Kennedy will soon be returning to SmackDown, a new…um, creature made his first appearance. After Fit Finlay easily defeated Paul Burchill, he rolled outside the ring and pulled up the apron. There was a green light glowing, and a little man dressed in all green rolled out with a crazy look on his face. He ran around in a crazy rage, grabbing Finlay’s shillelagh and nailing Burchill with it. Finlay then slammed the little guy onto Burchill before rolling to the floor and tossing him back under the ring. Michael Cole & Tazz didn’t quite know what to make of the situation, although I think it’s nice that Finlay seems to have his own Mini-Me.

ECW had a presence this week. It was announced earlier this week on WWE.com that ECW would be returning in June, and ECW mastermind Paul Heyman was in the house for SmackDown. During the show, Heyman came into Theodore Long’s office while Matt Hardy was there and the three exchanged pleasantries. Paul tried to make nice with Theodore by saying he was only scouting the competition, but the GM wasn’t having it. He told Heyman “I don’t like you, I don’t trust you, and I don’t want you snooping around in my locker room,” to which Paul said it was just business.

Whatever the case may be, there are already three former SmackDown Superstars (Melina, Johnny Nitro and now Bradshaw) looking for work these days, so everyone should probably be a little more careful.

MATCHES:

Tatanka defeated Simon Dean

World Heavyweight Champion Rey Mysterio defeated Bradshaw

Bobby Lashley defeated United States Champion Bradshaw
to become United Staes Champion

Chris Benoit defeated Mark Henry
via a disqualification

WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick defeated Nunzio & Vito
via a non title Match

Fit Finlay defeated Paul Burchill

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SMACKDOWN # 355
6-2-06 Taped 5-30-06
Rose Garden
Portland, Oregon

SmackDown proved to be a truly historic night for more reason than one. On his first SmackDown since being coronated as the King, Booker T and his associates brutally attacked the United States Champion Lashley, and made him bow to the feet of the new king. But well before all that, the Portland fans were treated to Kurt Angle`s SmackDown farewell.

Earlier this week, ECW boss Paul Heyman used his one and only SmackDown draft pick to bring Kurt Angle to the new ECW. Knowing he would be appearing on his final SmackDown, the Wrestling Machine issued a challenge to World Champion Rey Mysterio, setting the stage for one final battle. The fans got everything they expected and more as the world class competitors engaged in an all time classic. Angle controlled the action early on, bringing Mysterio to the ground with a variety of mat-based attacks. Eventually, Rey was able to work free from Angle`s grasp and make it back to his feet and launch an offensive attack. A series of high risk maneuvers from Rey only served to anger the new ECW star. Angle turned up the intensity, using a belly-to-belly and german suplex to set up Mysterio for the normally fatal Angle Slam. However, an extremely alert World Champion was able to get his foot on the rope and break the count. Mysterio reversed a second Angle Slam attempt into a 619. Still winded, Rey was unable to follow up with a pinning combination. Instead, Rey tried the move for a second time, but it would end up leading to his biggest and most crucial mistake of the entire match. Angle caught the champ and executed a perfect belly-to-belly overhead suplex over the top rope to the outside, leaving Mysterio incapacitated on the arena floor. Perhaps suffering from an ankle or leg injury, Rey was unable to return to the ring by the count of 10, resulting in a final SmackDown victory for Angle. Following the match, Kurt and Mysterio exchanged one last embrace. The departing SmackDown legend welcomed Rey back into the ring, and handed him his Championship, providing a lasting image that will be forever remembered as Kurt Angle`s last night on SmackDown.

In the main event, the newly crowned King Booker took on the new U.S. Champion Lashley in a Judgment Day rematch. Prior to the match, Booker sat on his throne and was introduced to the crowd by William Regal. Following the impromptu ceremony, a match actually took place. The match went back and forth with Booker using a series of vicious strikes in an attempt to slow Lashley. Eventually, Lashley overpowered Booker, using a pair of suplexes and a running powerslam to score the pinfall. What happened after the match however made Lashley`s victory seem like a distant memory. Lashley was attacked by Regal and Finlay, who appear to be two of King Booker`s new associates. With Lashley disarmed, Booker delivered a Bookend and a Scissor Kick to the fallen U.S. Champion. Sitting on his throne, Booker ordered Regal and Finlay to make Lashley Bow Down to King Booker and kiss his royal feet. As SmackDown went off the air, Lashley was left face down at Booker`s feet as Queen Sharmell proclaimed, All hail King Booker

SmackDown also provided fans with a trio of breaking news updates. First, it was learned that a dream match had been signed for ECW`s One Night Stand. For the first time ever, Rey Mysterio will meet the suicidal, homicidal, genocidal death defying Sabu. To make things even more interesting, the two will meet over the World Championship.

In other news concerning a pair of returning SmackDown Superstars, it was revealed that the one and only Mr. Kennedy will return to SmackDown next week. Also, it was announced that former World Heavyweight Champion Batista will return in just five weeks.

The Portland fans gave a huge Rose City welcome to the hometown hero Rowdy Roddy Piper, who hosted a special edition of Piper`s Pit. His guest, The Great Khali, was not as generous to Piper as the hometown fans. The WWE Hall of Famer ended up embroiled in an intense argument with Khali`s manager Daivari, and eventually, things got physical. Piper leveled Daivari with a sharp right hand, but the scuffle was short lived as Khali intervened and brutally assaulted the WWE legend. When it was all over, a triumphant Khali stood over a motionless Piper, raising his arms to the crowd, further suggesting that the newcomer may be the most dominating force in WWE history.

If it wasn`t already made clear in previous weeks, the SmackDown roster was further put on notice that when Mark Henry comes to the ring, Some bodies gonna get their ass kicked. Added to the list of stars injured at the hands of the World`s Strongest Man was Paul Burchill, whom Henry seemed to enjoy dismantling both during and after their match. Henry used two World`s Strongest Slams, and a brutal spear to the ring post to take the Burchill out. Afterwards, Burchill had to be carted away from ringside on a stretcher.

SmackDown also featured a pair of bizarre incidents. First, following his loss to Matt Hardy, Nunzio`s tag team partner Big Vito came to ringside wearing a dress, stunning nearly everyone in attendance. Later, the creature resembling a leprechaun appeared for the second straight week after Finlay`s match with Caden Matthews.

Prior to the main event, SmackDown announcer and former ECW standout Tazz made a big time challenge to RAW commentator Jerry Lawler. Sick of the constant jabs from Lawler at both himself and the ECW legacy, the Brooklyn native challenged the King to a match at ECW`s One Night Stand. I got one left in me Lawler. With God as my witness, I guarantee that I will choke your ass out at One Night Stand. Because I am Tazz, beat me if you can old man, survive if I let you.

SmackDown also saw the introduction of the show`s new host, Mike The Miz Mizanin. The brand`s newest name spent most of his evening mingling with the raucous Rose Garden crowd, serving as a guide to the night`s proceedings.

Besides The Miz, another new face made their SmackDown debut. Following Jillian Hall`s victory over Kristal, Michelle McCool made her way to the ring. Dressed in a provocative short skirt, McCool told the exhausted Divas that things were about to get a whole lot hotter on SmackDown. McCool`s speech also appeared to be directed towards returning Diva Ashley, who made her return from injury to sit in on commentary.

MATCHES:

Fit Finlay defeated Caden Matthews

Kurt Angle defeated Rey Mysterio
via a countout inn a non title match

Matt Hardy defeated Nunzio

Jillian Hall defeated Kristal Marshal

Mark Henry defeated Paul Burchill

Bobby Lashley defeated Booker T
via a non title match

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SMACKDOWN # 356
6-9-06 Taped 6-6-06
Wes Banco Arena
Wheeling, West Virginia

Rey Mysterio`s hell week continued on Friday Night SmackDown, and after watching what transpired in the WesBanco Arena, the biggest question has to be what is Rey in for at ECW One Night Stand? Mysterio was set to take on Finlay in the main event, but before he did he had another pressing issue to address. Paul Heyman confirmed that he had offered Rey a spot on the ECW roster, which was originally reported by WWE.com earlier in the week. Chavo Guerrero confronted Mysterio right before his decision, but Rey knew what he was going to say, and instead tried to convince Chavo to come back to the ring. After their talk, Rey came to the ring and told Paul that while he appreciated the offer and all ECW had done for him, his home was on SmackDown and that’s where he would stay. Heyman accepted the rejection, shaking Rey`s hand and wished him luck, telling him that "I think you`re going to need it tonight." Heyman`s words were indeed prophetic, as the double-tough Finlay beat Rey from pillar to post for the majority of the match. At one point, Finlay`s "little" buddy got involved, pulling Rey under the ring to presumably inflict more damage. As the match neared conclusion however, Rey took control and had Finlay in position of the 619. Out of nowhere, Sabu (Rey`s opponent at ECW One Night Stand) appeared with a chair. Rey dropkicked it into him as he tried to enter the ring, but all that did was distract the referee; with Nick Patrick`s back turned, Finlay grabbed his shillelagh and nailed Rey in the stomach. He then hoisted the World Champion up and dropped him with the Celtic Cross to get the stunning victory. As if the champion`s rough battle with Finlay weren`t enough, Sabu struck again after the match; after throwing a chair that nailed Rey in the head, Sabu set the World Champion up on a table outside the ring. The ECW star then launched himself over the top rope, dropping a crushing legdrop that sent Rey crashing through the table. Both men were left prone on the arena floor as the show went off the air, and Michael Cole was left to wonder what everyone was thinking: having now lost three matches in seven days to Kurt Angle, Rob Van Dam and Finlay, will Rey`s luck finally run out against Sabu on Sunday? Will Sabu take the World Heavyweight Championship to ECW?

We do know that ECW definitely has one new addition. While Rey turned down Paul Heyman`s offer, former ECW Champion Tazz announced that he was going home. After interrupting broadcast partner Michael Cole in the ring, Tazz first addressed Jerry Lawler, saying "I swear on my child, I`m going to choke you out this Sunday." He then announced that he had accepted Heyman`s offer, and was "going home to where Tazz belongs," ECW. "I had a great time here on SmackDown," he said, "but I`m done. I`m going home. Goodbye." Later, when Heyman joined Cole on commentary, Cole tried to make light of the fact that Heyman was only batting .500. However, the ECW representative simply stated that "you don`t know what my batting average is. Rey Mysterio is the only one who has publicly acknowledged my offer, but I`ve been courting several SmackDown Superstars." So the question that lies is who has Heyman talked to, and will they be defecting as well?

King Booker had a bad night as well, finding out that he must face United States Champion Bobby Lashley next week. As the night began, William Regal tried to introduce the new King, but Lashley attacked him from behind and hammered the Englishman throughout the ringside area. After officials broke up the fight, Theodore Long announced that Lashley and Regal would square off later in the show, with the United States Champion getting a match with King Booker next week if he was victorious. When the match came around, the King and Queen looked on from a throne perched in the entrance aisle. Regal used a solid ground-and-pound approach to try to subdue the champion, but the powerful newcomer was able to come back. After Regal managed to toss Lashley to the arena floor, the Englishman grabbed a chair; but when he went to use it, Lashley ran and speared him viciously. The referee began to count Regal out, and a frenzied King Booker rushed to ringside to try to help him. It was futile, however, as the count reached 10 and Lashley was declared the winner. As a result, next week the King must face the man who was forced to kiss his feet in the middle of the ring.

One-half of the WWE Tag Team Champions was in action as well as Brian Kendrick took on Super Crazy of the Mexicools. The two men, usually known for their high-flying style, took a more ground-based approach to their match. In the end, however, it was Super Crazy who reverted to his normal style, nailing Kendrick with a backflip uranage slam off the top rope to get the victory. After the match, however, the Great Khali came out and destroyed Crazy, Kendrick and Paul London. Psicosis managed to get away, but the damage had been done. Despite all of the madness, Crazy`s victory gave the Mexicools two straight wins over London & Kendrick. Michael Cole brought it up during the match, and I have to agree with what he said: are the Mexicools doing to London & Kendrick the same thing the champions did to MNM?

Mark Henry also continued his path of destruction, dominating poor Raymond Rowe in a short match. After the match, however, Henry told the world that Batista would return in 28 days in Philadelphia, but it would be the biggest mistake of The Animal`s life.

ECW alumnus Nunzio made a mistake of his own on SmackDown. After several Superstars ran away at the sight of Vito, he and Nunzio had a spat in the locker room with Nunzio trying to convince his paisan to stop wearing a dress. Vito told him that he was the toughest man to ever wear a dress, and that he would prove his toughness to Nunzio in the ring. That`s exactly what he did, as Vito dominated a hard-hitting match before putting Nunzio away with the Code of Silence, his signature spinning implant DDT. I never would`ve pegged a guy as tough as Vito as one who lived an alternative lifestyle; but after watching what he did to a man who was one of his best friends, I sure as hell won`t say anything to him about it.

The Divas even made an appearance, as Ashley, Kristal, Jillian and Michelle McCool took part in a Summer Kick-off Bikini Contest hosted by The Miz. After the first three showed their goods, however, McCool berated the Divas, the fans and the media alike. She told the world that teachers have needs too, but after seeing the crowd and the other Divas` C+ bodies, her A+ body and needs would never be met by anyone in the building. She stormed off, leaving Miz with three Divas to have the fans choose from. They chose Ashley, whose black leather bikini earned her the victory. Hey Michelle, I wasn`t always the greatest student in school, so maybe you can give me a little extra help sometime?

And of course, Mr. Kennedy made his return to SmackDown, defeating Scotty 2 Hotty with a swanton bomb after "treating" the fans to his signature introduction. It was the first time Kennedy had stepped into the ring since Thanksgiving weekend of 2005, but he showed no signs of ring rust in easily dispatching the popular cruiserweight.

MATCHES:

Finlay defeated World Heavyweight Champion Rey Mysterio
in a non-title match

Ken Kennedy defeated Scotty 2 Hotty

Super Crazy defeated Brian Kendrick

Vito defeated Nunzio

United States Champion Bobby Lashley defeated William Regal
via a countout

Ashley won a Summer Kickoff Divas Bikini Contest

Mark Henry defeated Raymond Rowe

---

SMACKDOWN # 357
6-16-06 Taped 6-13-06
Sovereign Bank Arena
Trenton, New Jersey

Is United States Champion Bobby Lashley indestructible? That`s the question everyone was left with when Friday Night SmackDown went off the air. After defeating William Regal last week, General Manager Theodore Long granted Lashley with a match against his nemesis, King Booker. But early in the evening, it looked as if the match might not take place after all. King Booker and his court tried to take Lashley out before the match even happened. Regal, Finlay and King Booker all attacked the U.S. Champ as he made his entrance, with the King specifically targeting the knee. Luckily for Lashley, Matt Hardy and Gunner Scott, who would be facing Regal and Finlay later in the night, made the save before any further damage could be done. For the time being the match appeared to be called off, but Lashley would not go down so easily. While Lashley was being tended to by medical officials, and they tried to tell him that there was no way he could go on with the match. Lashley, however, had other plans. He implored the medical officials to tape up his knee, because come hell or high water, he was going to go one on one against King Booker. Lashley got his wish, but for a while it looked as though he made the wrong decision. King Booker methodically worked over Lashley`s injured knee. By taking out one of Lashley`s legs, King Booker was seemingly able to cut down on his foe`s immense power. But Lashley kept courageously fighting back. A lesser man would have thrown in the towel and lived to fight another day, but there is no quit in the young Lashley. His perseverance paid off, and he somehow maintained the strength and power to catch King Booker in a thunderous powerslam for the huge victory. Lashley was somehow able to persevere, and in the end, the so-called peasant was the one who reigned supreme. After being on such a high as the new King, how will King Booker react to being defeated by Lashley?

There was also a brand new color commentator on SmackDown this week - none other than JBL. After losing a match to Rey Mysterio and being forced to retire just weeks ago, Mr. SmackDown was back, but this time behind the announce booth. From listening to the first two hours of JBL on commentary, one thing is certain. Sports-entertainment has never had a more controversial color commentator. JBL has never been afraid to speak his mind in interviews while he was an active Superstar, and he is carrying that same attitude and way of thinking into his new job as an announcer. And he didn`t waste much time before stirring the pot.

The first match of the night was a Champion vs. Champion match in which World Champion Rey Mysterio faced Cruiserweight Champion in a non-title match. Mysterio was fresh off the heels of an all-out hardcore war from One Night Stand against Sabu. The match was so extreme, that it had to be stopped after Sabu DDT`d Rey through a table and neither man could continue. Helms took advantage of Rey`s weakened state and came up with several near falls. But just as he has done time and time again over the past couple of hellacious months, Rey Mysterio endured the punishment and was able to come up with a big win. During the match, color commentator JBL voiced his displeasure for Mysterio and even threw his hat at him, as he was still very bitter over being forced into retirement by the World Champion. Perhaps JBL`s antagonistic presence at ringside helped motivate Mysterio in his match.

Mysterio`s good friend Chavo Guerrero was also on SmackDown this week, but unfortunately for him, he didn`t have nearly as good a night as Rey. A poll was conducted all week long on WWE.com asking fans if they would like to see Chavo come out of retirement. Nearly 350,000 fans responded, and the results were quite conclusive. About 80 % of the fans voted that they would like to see Chavo step back into the ring, but Guerrero stood pat on his decision to remain retired. Before Chavo could finish his interview, though, he was interrupted by the World`s Strongest Man Mark Henry. Henry said that it was a shame that he was retired, because he`s been having a good time lately knocking Superstars out of action. He`s already put Batista and Chris Benoit on the shelf, and he claimed that the World Champion has been ducking him. Then, even though Chavo is retired, Henry brutally attacked Guerrero. He laid him out with a pair of World`s Strongest Slams and viciously rammed his back against the steel ring post.

After being run off by Gunner Scott and Matt Hardy earlier in the night, Regal and Finlay had a chance to get back at the duo in tag team action. Scott and Hardy worked well together as a team, but the members of King Booker`s court were too much for them to handle. With the referee distracted, Finlay used his shillelagh to knock out Scott for the victory. It also didn`t help that Hardy and Scott had to contend with Finlay`s Little Bastard. Not only did Little Bastard get involved during the match, but after the bell rang, he went on a rampage like a rabid pitbull. Little Bastard even got so caught up in the moment that he attacked Regal. After doing his damage, Finlay grabbed Little Bastard and threw him back under the ring.

One week after being destroyed by The Great Khali, Super Crazy was set to team up with his partner Psicosis to try and get revenge in a 2-on-1 Handicap Match. Last week, after seeing how destructive Khali was, Psicosis retreated, leaving his partner laying in the ring. But this week he promised to have Super Crazy`s back. Unfortunately for Super Crazy, Psicosis is not a man of his word. Psicosis tried to combat Khali early on, but after seeing that they were no match for the monster, Psicosis again retreated, leaving Super Crazy to fend for himself. What does this mean for the future of The Mexicools? And how can the monstrous Khali ever be stopped?

The toughest man ever to wear a dress, Vito, was also in action and picked up an impressive victory. SmackDown also had some exclusive footage of Vito working out in a nearby gym. Although Vito is finally comfortable being himself and proudly wearing women`s clothing, it was clear that the people at the gym were not.

Mr. Kennedy was back in action as well. Kennedy picked up a second-straight win since returning from an injury, looking like he hasn`t missed a beat while sitting on the sidelines.

SmackDown fans were almost treated to a Bikini Contest for a second straight week. After Michelle McCool refused to show off her A+ body to the crowd last week, Ashley caught up to the Diva backstage this week and challenged her to an impromptu Bikini Contest to be judged by the Trenton, NJ fans. McCool once again refused, and Ashley told her that instead of talking about teaching a class, she should go out and get some class instead. Is it just a matter of time before this war of words gets physical between the Divas?

A video was shown of Sylvan, who is now an ambassador of Quebec, trying to convince the fans to visit the province of Canada.

MATCHES:

World Champion Rey Mysterio defeated Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms
via a non-title match

Mr. Kennedy defeated Nick Berk

The Great Khali defeated Mexicools
via a handicap match

Finlay & William Regal defeated Matt Hardy & Gunner Scott

Vito defeated Scott Wright

United States Champion Lashley defeated King Booker

---

SMACKDOWN # 358
6-23-06 Taped 6-20-06
Pepsi Arena
Albany, New York

A helping hand never hurts, and for Rey Mysterio, a little help from Chavo Guerrero and his family playbook helped Rey retain the World Championship on SmackDown. Mysterio put his gold on the line against a man he has never beaten: the World`s Strongest Man, Mark Henry. The last time they were in the ring together, the massive Henry destroyed Rey in a match he was goaded into by JBL. It seemed fitting that JBL was at ringside filling his new duty as color commentator, but in the end, it wasn`t quite the ending he wanted to see. Earlier in the night, Chavo told Michael Cole that he knew Rey had his work cut out for him but that he had confidence that Rey would win... and that he wasn`t the only Guerrero who thought so. Throughout the match though, it looked like Chavo would have to eat his words. Henry dominated the World Champion, tossing him around almost at will and methodically pounding him down. Late in the match, Henry pulled a turnbuckle pad off the corner. When referee Nick Patrick attempted to fix it, the World`s Strongest Man threw Mysterio into him to knock him unconscious. But as Henry then scooped Rey up to finish him of with the World`s Strongest Slam, Chavo ran to the ring with a chair to back up his words. Henry shrugged off Chavo`s blow with the chair, but the distraction allowed Rey to nail Henry with a chair-assisted 619. Somehow, Henry was still able to catch Rey`s Seated Senton attempt, but Chavo clipped his knee out from under him. Seeing the referee recovering, Chavo bashed the chair against the ringpost and tossed it onto Henry, telling Rey to act as if he was hit. Chavo stole an old trick out of his late uncle Eddie Guerrero`s playbook, and it worked well for Eddie`s nephew and best friend on this occasion. When Patrick stood up, he saw Henry with the chair and Rey on the mat; putting two and two together, Patrick disqualified the World`s Strongest Man. Chavo and Rey celebrated in the entrance aisle as an irate Henry bent the chair and stared them down; unfortunately, the show of strength was too little, too late for him as the champion had already lied, cheated and stolen his way to his first-ever victory over Henry.

It was another bad night for King Booker as well. Once again matched up against United States Champion Bobby Lashley, the King focused his attack on the still-injured left knee of the champion. Somehow, the hard-hitting Lashley kept finding the strength to come back from Booker`s methodical attack; in the end, however, the odds caused Lashley to snap. First, William Regal got involved by nailing Lashley with a cheap shot. Finlay then also made his presence known, but the champion was able to fight off his attack. As Regal distracted the referee, Queen Sharmell gave her King a chair; Lashley was able to avoid his swing, grabbing the chair in the process. Regal then ran into the ring, but was met by a hard shot from Lashley. The champion then nailed King Booker as well to draw a disqualification, but he seemingly had no choice. Against what was basically a 4-on-1 attack, Lashley did what he had to do to protect himself. He won`t have to worry about that next week, thanks to General Manager Theodore Long. While King Booker complained that he never wanted to step foot in the ring with "that peasant Lashley" again, Long gave an edict that the King disapproved of. Next week, the King and the United States Champion will meet one more time... inside a Steel Cage.

Finlay was in a match of his own, coming out victorious over Gunner Scott. Prior to the match, Little Bastard made his presence known by throwing beer cans out from under the ring during Finlay`s entrance. And after a hard-hitting match, it was the little man who helped Finlay to victory as well. The fighting Irishman went to look for the Little Bastard late in the match, but he ran into the ring from the other side carrying a large shillelagh instead. Not wanting to get disqualified, Finlay tackled him to prevent him from hitting Scott. As the referee dispatched of Little Bastard and the large shillelagh, Finlay grabbed a shillelagh of his own; just like he had the previous week, Finlay clocked Scott in the head with it and scored the pinfall.

SmackDown also saw the apparent implosion of the Mexicools. The duo had a chance to face Paul London & Brian Kendrick for the WWE Tag Team Championship, but they couldn`t seem to get on the same page at any point in the bout. The champions kept Psicosis isolated for most of the match, but when he was finally able to tag Super Crazy it looked like the challengers would take the gold home. Instead, it was the beginning of the end. As Crazy climbed the ropes to attempt a moonsault on Kendrick, Psicosis made a blind tag. He then climbed the opposite corner, but when he missed a somersault legdrop Kendrick was able to cover him for the winning pinfall. Psicosis and Super Crazy then argued, with Crazy attacking his partner. For the past two weeks, Psicosis had abandoned Crazy as The Great Khali manhandled him, and after his actions on SmackDown it appears that Crazy has finally had enough. Have we seen the end of their partnership?

Speaking of The Great Khali, he made his presence felt as well. During a match pitting Tatanka against Simon Dean, it looked like the Native American Warrior was about to claim victory when Khali and Daivari made their entrance. The massive Khali quickly dispatched of Tatanka before dropping Simon with a devastating choke throw. With Dean down, Khali did the unthinkable; mocking Undertaker`s signature pinfall, Khali crossed the fitness guru’s arms across his chest and stuck out his tongue. The crowd firmly disapproved of the act, and wherever he may be I`m sure the Deadman did as well... but will he ever show his face again to do something about it?

Also on SmackDown, Mr. Kennedy... Kennedy also continued the roll he`s been on since returning to SmackDown by defeating Funaki. Thanks to the move Kennedy calls the Ken-ton Bomb, SmackDown`s No. 1 Announcer became just the latest victim of the man who is single-handedly changing Friday nights.

Vito also tried to invite SmackDown Diva Ashley to dinner, but it seemed as if Ashley thought the Sicilian may live another kind of alternative lifestyle. After denying that, the toughest man to ever wear a dress instead asked the drop-dead gorgeous Diva for some fashion and beauty tips.

Ambassador Sylvan once again tried to convince the great SmackDown fans to visit his home province of Quebec. As much as Sylvan may have been disliked in the past, I have to agree with his message, because in my opinion Montreal is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Where else can you blow your paycheck at numerous gentlemen`s clubs and blackjack tables and then drown your sorrows in a delicious plate of French fries and gravy? Oh yeah, Las Vegas. Sorry Sylvan, I`m staying in the States.

And of course, we`re now less than two weeks away from the return of Batista, as the Animal will comes back to SmackDown on July 7 in Philadelphia. I`m glad I`ll be there, because after six months on the shelf you know the Animal will be amped up and ready to go in Philly.

MATCHES:

WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick
defeated
"The Mexicools" Psicosis & Super Crazy

Tatanka vs Simon Dean
ended in a No Contest

Finlay defeated Gunner Scott

King Booker defeated United States Champion Bobby Lashley
via a disqualification

Mr. Kennedy defeated Funaki

World Champion Rey Mysterio defeated Mark Henry
via a disqualification

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SMACKDOWN # 359
6-30-06 Taped 6-27-06
Roanoke Civic Center
Roanoke, Virginia

United States Champion Bobby Lashley continued his meteoric rise to success on SmackDown with a huge win over King Booker in his first ever Steel Cage Match Friday night. Lashley and King Booker have been at each other’s throats ever since the King of the Ring Tournament, and as of late, King Booker’s Court has inserted themselves into the rivalry as well. After two straight weeks of having to contend with William Regal and Fit Finlay as well as King Booker himself, General Manager Theodore Long decided to give Lashley an opportunity against his arch nemesis inside a steel cage to make sure that there would be no interference. Heading into SmackDown, it was still unknown whether Long’s decision would indeed work to Lashley’s favor. After all, King Booker is a veteran of Steel Cage Matches, while this marked Lashley’s first encounter inside the unforgiving structure. To make matters even more interesting, Lashley’s United States Championship was on the line. Early on, it looked as if, King Booker’s experience would pay off, as he had one leg out the cage door. But Lashley’s freakish strength allowed him to pull the King back in by his other leg, and the match continued. King Booker tried to ground Lashley by focusing on his previously injured knee – which was due largely in part to an attack by Regal, Finlay and the King – but Lashley was able to endure the punishment. However, even though they were locked out of the cage, Regal and Finlay still made their presence felt. As Lashley began to take control, he tried to climb over the cage, but Finlay and Regal were there, wielding a shillelagh and steel chair respectively, to send Lashley back into the ring. An enraged Lashley was able to knock them off the apron, but in the meantime, King Booker was trying to make his own escape. Lashley utilized his impressive agility to hop op on the other side of the cage and caught King Booker as he had one leg draped over the cage. The two battled momentarily on the top turnbuckle before Lashley tossed King Booker back into the ring. With Regal and Finlay just getting back to their feet, and with King Booker down on the mat, Lashley was able to climb out of the cage and land on the floor to successfully defend his United States Championship. It seems that no matter what is in Lashley’s way, he finds a way to overcome it. What is the next step for the young powerhouse? Most likely, it will be whatever he wants it to be.

While one Champion was celebrating at the end of SmackDown, another was down and out as the show kicked off. One week after being tricked into a disqualification loss thanks to World Champion Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero, Mark Henry was back on his Path of Destruction. “Last week I had Rey Mysterio right where I wanted him. I should be the World Champion,” said Henry while addressing the Roanoke, Va. crowd. “I had him whipped. I had him beat. I had him crawling at my feet.” But before Henry could get much further he was interrupted by the retired Chavo Guerrero. Chavo said that he knew that Henry wanted him to come out of retirement so they could have a match, but that wasn’t going to happen. Responding to Henry calling all of the Guerreros parasites, Chavo said that the Guerrero name was bulletproof. “I spit on the Guerrero name. I spit on you. And if your Uncle Eddie were alive, I’d spit on him, too,” said Henry. Needless to say, Chavo stormed the ring upon hearing the inflammatory comments from the World’s Strongest Man. But Chavo was following his heart and not his brain. After a couple of hard punches, Henry was able to catch Chavo with the World’s Strongest Slam. That was just the beginning of what Henry was ready to unleash. The World’s Strongest Man followed that with a second-rope splash, and he went back up for one more. But before he could connect, World Champion Rey Mysterio rushed to the arena, trying to help Chavo. When Mysterio hit the ring, however, Henry landed on the World Champion instead. Henry continued to pour it on and rammed Rey back-first into the apron and kicked his head against the ring post. The World’s Strongest Man returned his attention to Chavo and slammed him back-first into the ring post twice before putting him in a bone-crunching back breaker. Mark Henry destroyed everything in his path, and it doesn’t look like anyone can stop him.

The Cruiserweight Championship was also on the line Friday night as Gregory Helms defended the gold against Super Crazy. Just last week, Super Crazy and then-partner Psicosis had an opportunity at tag team gold, but the Mexicools imploded and the two came to blows. Unfortunately for Super Crazy, the same thing happened again during his singles match against Helms. Crazy had Helms locked in a submission maneuver, but Psicosis stormed the ring from out of nowhere and assaulted his former partner, resulting in a no-contest. Both Superstars were out for blood, and it seems like it may only be a matter of time before these two have to settle things one-on-one.

Mr. Kennedy continued his impressive win streak since returning to SmackDown a few weeks ago with a big win over Gunner Scott. Kennedy continued to unleash a new, more aggressive attack. After brutalizing Scott, and taunting him along the way, Kennedy capped things off with a picture-perfect Ken-ton Bomb for the victory. But before he could finish his closing announcement as the victor, he was interrupted by The Great Khali’s music. As the monster made his way to the ring, Kennedy did the wise thing and fled the scene to fight another day. Scott was not as lucky.

The Great Khali hoisted Scott up with ease and sent him crashing down to the mat with a two-handed chokeselam. To add insult to injury, The Great Khali was instructed by Daivari to put Scott into a bodybag, eerily reminiscient of some of Undertaker’s past actions. Daivari then laid out a challenge to Undertaker for a Punjabi Prison Match at The Great American Bash. No one is really sure what a match of this nature entails, but Undertaker is normally not one to back down to a challenge. Will Undertaker answer the call, or will he continue to rest in peace?

In addition to trying to help King Booker defeat Lashley in the main event, Finlay was also in singles action Friday night on SmackDown against Matt Hardy. Finlay debuted back in Januaray in a match against Hardy and was disqualified for using excessive force and not breaking the ref’s five-count. So, Hardy definitely had a score to settle. Finlay tried to use his shillelagh, but Hardy caught him and tried to use the weapon as well. The referee stepped in, and as he retrieved Finlay’s weapon, the fighting Irishman caught Hardy and dropped him on an exposed steel turnbuckle. One Celtic Cross later, and Finlay was the victor. Finlay’s friend Little Bastard was also at ringside and even tossed JBL a cold Guiness to enjoy during the match.

The Toughest Man ever to wear a dress, Vito, also continued his winning ways. Vito used his alternative lifestyle to his advantage against the paranoid Simon Dean. Obviously uncomfortable with Vito’s unorthodox ring attire, Dean kept trying to cover up his opponent. In the end, Vito locked in a vicious arm bar, as Simon’s head was positioned up Vito’s dress, forcing the fitness guru to tap out. Vito’s armbar was surely painful, but it was probably nothing compared to the mental anguish that Dean will endure every time he thinks of that fateful Friday night in Roanoke.

The Pitbulls, Kid Kash and Jamie Noble, also made their SmackDown debut. The duo showed that they are one of the most aggressive tag teams to join SmackDown in quite some time. They punched, kicked and slapped their opponents around the ring mercilessly. When they finally dished out enough punishment, they finished their opponents off with a tag team maneuver that resembled the Doomsday Device, which was utilized by the legendary Legion of Doom. Will the Pitbulls be able to become legends in their own right? Only time will tell.

Last year’s Diva Search winner Ashley was interviewed by Kristal to give her thoughts on the this year’s contest. Ashley said that above all else, the contest is about having fun. She mentioned that she was stoked when Kristal made the top-10, but the SmackDown interviewer did not look pleased. Apparently offended by the comment, Kristal responded by saying, “I finished fourth, bitch.” Apparently the Diva Search Contest is not all about fun and games.

The ambassador of Quebec, Sylvan, showcased the exciting nightlife of Montreal and invited all of the SmackDown fans to visit his hometown.

MATCHES:

Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms vs Super Crazy
ended in a no-contest

The Pitbulls defeated Malik Yamah & Marty Garner

Fit Finlay defeated Matt Hardy

Mr. Kennedy defeated Gunner Scott

Vito defeated Simon Dean

United States Champion Bobby Lashley defeated King Booker
in a Steel Cage Match

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SMACKDOWN # 360
7-7-06 Taped 7-4-06
Wachovia Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

On this week’s edition of Friday Night SmackDown, the Animal was unleashed. Batista made his long awaited return and not only called out Mark Henry, but also delivered a beating of epic proportion when he decimated The World’s Strongest Man with a steel chair. Also on SmackDown, the stage was set for the Great American Bash as King Booker won a Battle Royal to become the No. 1 contender for Rey Mysterio’s World Championship.

For the duration of the last month or so and especially the last few days, the main topic of discussion in WWE locker rooms and arenas has been the impending return of the former World Heavyweight Champion, Batista. A report on WWE.com earlier this week provided information from sources close to the Animal that suggested the former Champ would return this week to call out Mark Henry. Batista did all that and more when he came through the curtain to a standing ovation from the Wachovia Center crowd. Several months ago, Mark Henry severely injured Batista during a match, forcing the then Champion to relinquish his gold, and take an extended break to heal the damage. On SmackDown, Batista had revenge on his mind when he called out The World’s Strongest Man. “Mark Henry, you come out here now, or I’m coming to get you.” At first it looked like Henry was going to give the Animal what he wanted. He made his way towards the ring, but as he closed in, he changed his mind, and turned back towards the locker room. Unfortunately for Mark Henry, the World Champion Rey Mysterio was waiting in the wings, and attacked the oversized Superstar to prevent his return to the backstage area. The distraction gave Batista all the time he needed to arrive on the scene. Showing an intensity that hasn’t been matched in years or maybe ever in or around a WWE ring, Batista laid in to his Great American Bash opponent. The former Champ busted Henry open with the use of the steel ring steps and a steel chair, leaving Henry a bloody mess just three weeks away from their monumental encounter. If Batista’s actions this week are any indication to how he will perform from here on in, the entire SmackDown locker room should be on watch.

Opportunity knocked for a number of SmackDown Superstars during a special Battle Royal that was held to determine a No. 1 contender for Rey Mysterio’s World Championship at July 23rd’s Great American Bash. The competition, which included the likes of Matt Hardy, Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick, Mr. Kennedy, Super Crazy, Psicosis and The Pitbulls to name a few, was dominated by King Booker and his royal court. The King, along with Finlay, William Regal and Matt Hardy comprised the final four. While Hardy was able to fight off the court temporarily, even eliminating Finlay, the old saying that there is strength in numbers played true on this night. King Booker eliminated both Matt Hardy and William Regal with a single push, leaving himself as the sole survivor, and the new No. 1 contender to Rey Mysterio’s Championship. King Booker, who will face Rey Mysterio on July 23rd at The Great American Bash, addressed the Royal Kingdom after his victory. “I will beat this peasant (Mysterio), and take the World Championship at the Great American Bash. I want it all. I want my entire kingdom to rejoice in my royal splendor. King Booker will soon be the King of the world.” World Champion Rey Mysterio had his own thoughts on his Great American Bash which he detailed to SmackDown Diva Kristal. “Every day that I bring this World title home with me, I realize it’s a gift. It’s a blessing, and this is the biggest ride of my life. So King Booker, royalty or not, at the Bash, you’re just one move away from the 619.”

Two other contests were made official for the Great American Bash. The first of which was the Punjabi Prison Match between Undertaker and The Great Khali. On SmackDown, Khali and Daivari continued their mocking of Undertaker, bringing a casket to the ring and threatening to dispose of Khali’s opponent, Tatanka accordingly. As Khali motioned to the casket, Undertaker took control of the Wachovia Center’s airwaves. “Great Khali, you dare challenge me. There’s an old saying that says you should quit while you’re ahead. At The Great American Bash, I will face you in your Punjabi Prison match, and you will, Rest in Peace.”

The other match confirmed for the Bash was a Triple Threat Match for the United States Championship between current champion Lashley, and two members of the Royal Court in Finlay and William Regal. Lashley was in action on SmackDown in a Champion vs. Champion match with Cruiserweight Champ Gregory Helms. While Helms proved to be a game opponent for the U.S. Champ, Lashley was not to be stopped on this night. The hard hitting and soft spoken powerhouse put Helms away with the Dominator and kept the momentum going heading into the Bash.

Two other SmackDown Superstars kept theirs going strong. Mr. Kennedy triumphed over Super Crazy in a hard fought battle, and the toughest man in a dress, Vito, danced and dominated his way to victory over Psicosis. The big story of those two matches however was the continuing war between former best friends and partners, Psicosis and Super Crazy. The former Mexicools turned bitter enemies interfered in each other’s matches, causing the distractions that contributed to each of their losses.

The ‘Ambassador-at-Large’ to Quebec, Sylvan, delivered another ringing endorsement for “North America’s greatest treasure”, Montreal. The proud Frenchman addressed the Philadelphia fans, and touted Quebec as an “isle of tranquility in a truculent world”.

MATCHES:

Batista beat on Mark Henry with a steel chair

King Booker won a Battle Royal
to become number 1 contender for the World Championship

Khali defeated Tatanka

Bobby Lashley defeated Gregory Helms

Mr. Kennedy defeated Super Crazy

Vito defeated Psicosis

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SMACKDOWN # 361
7-14-06 Taped 7-11-06
Target Center
Minneapolis, Minnesota

On a pivotal edition of Friday Night SmackDown, World Champion Rey Mysterio responded to last week’s ambush from King Booker with a sneak attack of his own and then followed it up by defeating a valued member of the King’s Court in William Regal. Also, another member of the King’s court, Finlay, walked away with the U.S. Championship, and Batista stood toe-to-toe with Mark Henry, all as SmackDown closes in on The Great American Bash.

As first reported on WWE.com, last week during SmackDown, World Champion Rey Mysterio was ambushed backstage by his Great American Bash challenger, King Booker. The attack left the champ face down on the arena pavement as the King made an unnoticed escape. This week, Rey Mysterio turned the tables and gave King Booker a taste of his own medicine. The No. 1 contender was addressing the Minneapolis fans, promising that Rey’s “fairy tale dreams” would come to an end at the Bash. Seconds later, Mysterio’s music played, prompting the Target Center crowd to rise to its feet. As King Booker turned his attention towards the entrance way, expecting Rey to appear from behind the curtain, the World Champion came through the crowd and crashed the ring, engaging in his own form of guerrilla warfare as he laid waste to the disheveled King and his court. Later, Mysterio took advantage of another opportunity to extract revenge on the King’s court when he took on William Regal in non-title action. Prior to the match, King Booker joined JBL and Michael Cole to provide royal commentary and even do a little scouting on his Great American Bash opponent. The match itself was every bit as intense as expected. Regal used his technical expertise to control the Champion early on, using a variety of takedowns to keep the high flyer in check. After recording several near falls, Regal became frustrated and provided the opening that the resilient Champion needed to take control of the match for good. In the midst of the rally, Booker tried to interfere, but instead was the recipient of a blow to the head, allowing Rey the time he needed to put Regal down for the count. Mysterio used a 619 and a springboard splash to record the pinfall and score a victory on Regal and the Court. After the match, Mysterio added injury to insult, leveling King Booker with a ringpost 619 and seated senton off the apron as a helpless Queen Sharmell looked on. When it was all said and done, Mysterio’s message to the Court was loud and clear, the underdog Champion is not yet ready for his impossible dream to end.

General Manager Theodore Long made a huge announcement regarding Batista and Mark Henry’s match at the Great American Bash, and at the same time, let it be known that he would not tolerate any physicality between the two during their SmackDown contract signing. “Both of these men deserve to be the No. 1 contender to the World Championship,” said the General Manager. “On July 23rd at the Great American Bash, the winner of the Batista vs. Mark Henry match will go on to meet the World Champion at SummerSlam.” Long continued, running down the ground rules for the contract signing. “Now, if either Batista or Mark Henry do as much as lay a hand on each other…they will be watching SummerSlam from home, and you can believe that playa.” The contract signing however, was not void of confrontation. After Batista and Henry exchanged words, The World’s Strongest Man threw the clipboard at the former Champion, lighting a fuse in the Animal who in turn destroyed the table which was used for the signing. Prior to the chaos, Batista addressed the audience and warned everyone of the beating that awaits Mark Henry at the Bash. “If Mark Henry thinks that what happened to him last week was payback, that was nothing,” said the Animal. “It was a small taste, a sample compared to what I’m going to do to you at The Great American Bash.”

Daivari and The Great Khali demanded that Undertaker give them a sign to show he’s not afraid of the giant Punjabi monster. As the old phrase goes, “be careful what you wish for because you just might get it.” Khali and Daivari got a response when the lights went out and Undertaker was revealed to be standing in the middle of the ring, making his first appearance since Judgment Day. At first, Daivari was unimpressed, prompting the Taker to send a message of a different kind. The Deadman rasied his arms to the sky, and sent a lightning bolt crashing to the floor, just feet in front of The Great Khali. While the message was clearly sent, Khali did not appear intimidated. What will happen in nine days when the two will meet in the mysteriously dangerous Punjabi Prison Match?

While William Regal had a tough go of things on SmackDown, another member of the King’s Court had a royal night. Finlay, who will be a part of the Triple Threat Match at the Bash, defeated Lashley to capture the United States Championship. Lashley appeared to have the match in hand, at times manhandling the fighting Irishman, causing him to retreat to the ringside area out of frustration. While there, Finlay created the distraction that led to the downfall of the Champion. In a fit of rage, Finlay threw several chairs, and his trusty shillelagh into the ring. The shillelagh however, made its way into Lashley’s hands, who in turn threw the implement down the runway to the SmackDown set. When Finlay returned to the ring, Lashley was waiting with a chair, but before he had a chance to use it, the referee intervened and confiscated the weapon. The distraction allowed Finlay’s Little Bastard to emerge from under the apron and toss a second shillelagh into the ring. With the referees attention focused elsewhere, Finlay hit Lashley with the object and made the cover for the victory. Just nine days from the Bash, the complexion of the Triple Threat Match has taken a dramatic turn.

This week’s SmackDown was also the site of the first day of competition in the 2006 edition of the $250,000 Diva Search. The aspiring Divas participated in the Bikini Boot Camp, hosted by WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter.

Ambassador-at-large to Quebec, Sylvan was back to enlighten viewers on the splendor of North America’s greatest treasure, Quebec. The French speaking representative told viewers that no matter how stunning the Divas are, they don’t compare to the beauty of Quebec. As always, Sylvan declared his homeland to be “an island of tranquility, in a truculent world.”

Mr. Kennedy took on fan-favorite Matt Hardy. The match was as hard fought as any in recent memory, with both participants showing an aggressive attitude that is synonymous with the SmackDown brand. In the end, Hardy recorded the win, sending Kennedy to his first singles loss since arriving on the WWE scene.

Also, Kristal’s newfound negative outlook continued this week. Kristal was heard backstage badmouthing Ashley. She told Michelle McCool that any one of the participants in the Diva Search would be “10 times better than Ashley”. Last year’s Diva Search winner was quick to respond, as her and Jillian confronted Kristal and McCool. The argument quickly escalated and turned physical when Ashley slapped Kristal, setting off a four-way catfight that left the backstage area in shambles. At Saturday Night’s Main Event, the four SmackDown Divas will be participants in the first ever 10-Diva Bikini Bull Riding Contest.

It was announced that Paul London & Brian Kendrick will defend their Tag Team Championship against The Pitbulls at The Great American Bash. In a preview of that contest, Jamie Noble used help from his partner Kid Kash to come out victorious in his match with one half of the tag team champs, Paul London.

MATCHES:

Matt Hardy defeated Mr. Kennedy

Jamie Noble defeated Paul London

Fit Finlay defeated United States Champion Bobby Lashley

World Champion Rey Mysterio defeated William Regal

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SMACKDOWN # 362
7-21-06 Taped 7-18-06
American Bank Center
Corpus Christi, Texas

Friday Night SmackDown was nothing short of explosive, just 48 hours before The Great American Bash. With Mark Henry injured at last week’s Saturday Night’s Main Event, Mr. Kennedy was named Batista’s opponent for the Bash. In addition, World Champion Rey Mysterio made his mark on Friday night by defeating his Bash opponent, King Booker, with a little help from Chavo Guerrero and the Guerrero family method of lying, cheating, and stealing.

SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long kicked off SmackDown prepared to address Mark Henry’s injury. Long announced that Henry will not be able to compete on Sunday and therefore, the number one contender’s match between Batista and Henry would not take place. Before Long could get any further, he was interrupted by Mr. Kennedy who made his way to the ring. Kennedy called for the Kennedy microphone and said that though Batista may be former World Champion, he’s not the one everyone’s talking about because that man is Mr. Kennedy. The brazen Kennedy then challenged Batista to a match at The Great American Bash. Before Teddy Long could respond, the Animal’s music hit and a fierce, focused Batista marched to the ring. “I’ve got six months of hatred and anger,” said Batista. “And since Mark Henry hurt his knee, now I’ve got no one to take it out on…so I think Mr. Kennedy will do just fine.” Kennedy then extended his hand to Batista and pulled it away before the Animal could connect palms, leaving a heated Batista in the ring. Mr. Kennedy may have stepped up to the plate to face Batista at the Bash, but will Kennedy be successful against an Animal that’s been caged for six months?

Chavo Guerrero and Teddy Long were met by an irate King Booker in the General Manager’s office. Booker explained that he is intent on becoming World Champion at the Bash, but wanted to “make Rey Mysterio bow down like the peasant that he is” on SmackDown. Chavo fired back at his majesty, saying that he is tired of people disrespecting the World Champion. Chavo also told Booker that on Sunday, he’s going to “watch the King get dethroned.” Later, Chavo implored Rey not to accept Booker’s challenge just days before The Great American Bash. Refusing to back down from any challenge, Rey told Teddy Long that he would indeed battle Booker on SmackDown. In the main event of the night, the resilient World Champion would ultimately foil King Booker’s plan to weaken Mysterio as Rey pinned the King before their championship match on Sunday. King Booker wore down Rey throughout much of the match until the fighting underdog Champion rallied against his royal opponent with a barrage of quick attacks. Mysterio attempted to hit the 619 on his foe, but was tripped by Queen Sharmell and walked into a thunderous Bookend from the King. Booker then set up Rey for a scissor kick but as Booker hit the ropes, Rey’s good friend, Chavo Guerrero appeared and grabbed the King’s leg. This provided ample distraction as Rey caught Booker with a dropkick to the back and a 619. Rey followed up by Dropping the Dime on Booker and got the three-count. Chavo Guerrero was at WrestleMania 22 when Rey won the World Championship and he is still in his corner three months later, as Mysterio looks to continue his dream beyond Sunday night.

Undertaker was not on SmackDown this week and you have to believe that it was because of the violent attack at the hands of The Great Khali and ECW World Champion Big Show this past Tuesday night,. His nemesis, The Great Khali and his manager, Daivari had another resounding message for the Phenom. “Once the Deadman is locked into that [Punjabi Prison Match] with The Great Khali, there will be no escape,” exclaimed Daivari, “and ironically, escape is the only way to win.” Daivari and Khali then presented a visual display of Khali dominating Undertaker, from the Punjabi Warrior’s debut to Khali’s victory over the Phenom at Judgment Day to the ferocious chokeslam through the ECW announce table. The Great Khali and Daivari watched the video, fiendishly laughing at the destruction. It remains to be seen what condition the Deadman will be in at the Bash. Will Khali dismantle Undertaker’s legacy in the mysterious Punjabi Prison Match? We’ll soon find out if the Phenom will survive.

Two embittered rivals – Bobby Lashley and United States Champion Finlay – locked up on SmackDown in a rematch from last week’s show. A man of few words, the former U.S. Champion was interviewed by the Miz just moments before his championship match. “Finlay’s not the only one that loves to fight,” said an intense Lashley. A fight it certainly was, as Lashley and Finlay brawled in and out of the ring just two days before the U.S. Championship Triple Threat Match at The Great American Bash. From the start, Finlay slowed down the pace of the match to deter Lashley from using his explosive power. Eventually, the third man in Sunday’s Triple Threat Match, William Regal, came to the ring and got involved. As if that wasn’t enough, Little Bastard came from under the ring and was tossed into Lashley’s midsection by Finlay. Lashley fought back again until Regal entered the ring with a chair, causing a disqualification. After the bell rang, the melee continued as Lashley took out Regal and then went for Finlay. Behind Lashley’s back, Little Bastard again crept up and gave Lashley a low blow with the shillelagh. Finlay then struck Lashley one final time with his own shillelagh on the back of the head. The U.S. Champion could be in jeopardy at the Bash because under Triple Threat rules, Finlay can lose the championship without being involved in the decision. But after Friday Night SmackDown, how can Lashley contend with Finlay, Regal, and Little Bastard to regain the championship?

In another Bash preview, WWE Tag Team Champion Brian Kendrick met PitBull Kid Kash one-on-one. Similarly to last week’s SmackDown, the PitBulls’ aggressive, rugged, and underhanded offense earned them a victory. Kash pinned Kendrick, making the Pitbulls 2-and-0 against Kendrick and London. The Tag Champions will need to reexamine their strategy and regroup before heading into their championship defense on Sunday.

WWE Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms sat at commentary for a competitive match between former tag team partners, Super Crazy and Psicosis. As Super Crazy picked up the victory, Helms (the longest current reigning champion in sports entertainment) announced that he will defend his Cruiserwight Championship at The Great American Bash. As of this time, we do not know who Helms will defend his championship against, but we’ll find out on Sunday.

This week’s SmackDown was also host to the Diva Dance-off competition in the $250,000 Diva Search. Milena Roucka was declared winner of the Diva Dance-Off. The pressure is on for the remaining seven finalists in the 2006 $250,000 Diva Search Contest. Amy Zidian was overcome with tears after being the first eliminated in the Diva Search last week on RAW. And on Friday Night SmackDown, the remaining contestants did their best avoid Amy’s fate by creating a 30-second dance routine impressive enough to leave a lasting impression on the fans in the Diva Dance-Off. When The Miz asked the crowd for a winner, it was obvious by their thunderous applause that Milena Roucka was it. Unfortunately for Melina, unlike Sgt. Slaughter’s Diva Boot Camp, a win in the Dance-Off  doesn’t grant immunity from the next elimination on RAW. The crowd obviously enjoyed Roucka’s titillating performance that included tossing her pink cowboy hat into the crowd and tearing off her over shirt. Layla El brought out a few tricks she learned as a Miami Heat dancer—dropping splits and bouncing along the ropes. Her routine was as fast paced and sexy, and ended with whistles and cheers from the fans. J.T. Tinney’s black mini-skirt and split on the bottom rope got upbeat feedback. Jen England stitched her name into the back of her pink bustier, sticking with her method of subliminally inserting her name into the minds of the voters. Rebecca DiPietro dressed in a revealing cowgirl outfit and went with a seductive strip-tease dance that revealed her ‘Got Milk’ bra. Maryse Ouellet seemed as if she might get intimate with the mat, as she wiggled her way to the ring post and up the second turnbuckle—getting a solid reaction from the crowd. Erica Chevillar tried a slower, more intimate approach in her dance. While all the fans were winners for watching the Diva Dance-Off, the seven finalists — including the winner, Milena — are eligible for elimination on RAW.

SmackDown’s finest females met in a tag match that pit Ashley and Jillian against Kristal and Michelle McCool. In what might be a preview of the Fourway Bra and Panties Match at the Bash, Jillian tore off Kristal’s top off from behind, allowing Ashley to roll up Kristal for the pin.

Quebec’s newest Ambassador-at-Large, Sylvan was also present on SmackDown as he interrupted Funaki, Tatanka and Matt Hardy backstage and encouraged them to “leave the doldrums of [their] daily life behind” and join him for a visit to Quebec, an island of tranquility in a truculent world.

SmackDown fans saw Vito take a tour of downtown Corpus Christi, TX as he shopped for all-things-Texan: cowboy boots, cowboy hats, and even denim skirts.

MATCHES:

Kid Kash defeated Brian Kendrick

Ashley Masaro & Jillian Hall defeated Kristal Marshal & Michelle McCool

Bobby Lashley defeated US. Champion Fit Finlay
via a disqualification

Super Crazy defeated Psicosis

Rey Mysterio defeated King Booker

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SMACKDOWN # 363
7-28-06 Taped 7-25-06
Joe Louis Arena
Detroit, Michigan

On the heels of a controversial Great American Bash, SmackDown was home to the first-ever “Opulent Coronation” in honor of the new World Heavyweight Champion, King Booker. Though Rey Mysterio was able to disrupt King Booker’s extravaganza of vanity, later in the night, Chavo Guerrero cost Mysterio the World Championship for the second time in five days. Whereas the World Championship was the only thing on Mysterio’s mind, the prideful King and World Champion, King Booker, planned for his Opulent Coronation as well. The celebration itself commenced, and King Booker and Queen Sharmell made their way to the ring seated in a carriage drawn by their imperial guards, amidst a torrent of red and gold balloons. The King proudly addressed his “loyal subjects,” but King Booker’s Opulent Coronation would soon turn into a royal disaster as former World Champion Rey Mysterio disrupted the festivities. Hitting the King with a surge of punches, Mysterio plopped his enemy in his throne and blasted him with a seated senton. Rey then crowned the King with the 619, leaving King Booker down just minutes before their World Championship match. Earlier, Rey Mysterio spoke with The Miz who hoped to hear Rey’s feelings on Chavo’s actions at the Bash. Following one of the most emotional weeks of his career, Rey ignored Miz’s question about Chavo, and instead offered a comment about his return match with World Heavyweight Champion King Booker later on. It seemed as if there was still plenty of fight in the former champion, possibly enough to recapture the gold from King Booker. “The only thing that’s on my mind right now is winning back the World title,” said a focused Mysterio. SmackDown fans also heard from the individual who betrayed Rey Mysterio at The Great American Bash, Chavo Guerrero who claimed to not be present in Detroit due to “personal reasons.” “I don’t feel I owe you an explanation,” Chavo told Michael Cole. “I don’t feel I owe anyone an explanation. Not even Rey Mysterio,” he said. Chavo refused to offer any details surrounding his actions at the Bash. Chavo then informed Michael Cole that he’d be at SmackDown next week to “educate Rey [Mysterio] on the true meaning of the name, Guerrero.” After hearing from Chavo, no one could have expected to see the embittered Guerrero appear during the World Heavyweight Championship return match, costing Rey his chance to relive his dream as champion. Employing an attack similar to the one he used at The Bash, Mysterio used fast-paced, hit-and-run tactics to weaken the veteran champion. With the championship in the balance, Mysterio went to the apron for an attack from the outside. Suddenly, Chavo Guerrero came to ringside, grabbed Mysterio and hurled him from off the apron into the barrier. After Chavo threw his former friend back into the ring, King Booker dropped the challenger with a scissor kick for the three-count, making SmackDown a bittersweet evening for his majesty.

After being physically obliterated by Batista at The Great American Bash, Mr. Kennedy came to SmackDown to gloat about defeating The Animal by disqualification. Before the audacious Kennedy could say much, Batista made his way to the ring for a Bash rematch between the two. Similarly to their first confrontation, Batista was intent on destroying Kennedy. The two battled to the outside and Kennedy got back into the ring to beat the referee’s count and slip past Batista with a victory for the second time.

SmackDown took a turn for the extreme on Friday night as ECW’s Paul Heyman confronted General Manager Theodore Long about putting ECW World Champion Big Show in the Punjabi Prison Match at The Great American Bash. Heyman said that Long “abused” the ECW World Champion on Sunday and then extended an invitation to Long to make a visit to Heyman’s jurisdiction at ECW. Heyman told Teddy to bring someone extreme enough to face the Big Show Tuesday at ECW on Sci Fi. Much to the dismay of the Extremist, Long informed Heyman that he knew just the man for the challenge: Batista. What will happen when The Animal collides with the ECW World Champion? We’ll find out on Tuesday.

Before his match with Finlay, Regal confronted the United States Champion backstage and explained that at the Bash, Finlay and “his little troll” embarrassed Regal. Regal told Finlay that he would come to their championship match prepared: “treacherous and full of vile and venom.” Finlay and Regal have battled many times in the past to bruises and stitches, but their collision on SmackDown quickly started to look like a violent bar room brawl. With the United States Championship at stake, the two grapplers exchanged a round of rough stomps and rigid punches. Just as he did at The Great American Bash, Finlay’s Little Bastard crept from underneath the ring and hit Regal with shillelagh shot between the legs. The opportunistic Finlay rolled up Regal and embarrassed him yet again, just five days after the Bash.

SmackDown witnessed the arrival of newcomer Sylvester Terkay and his corner man, Elijah Burke. Wrestling from Big Bear, Calif., the 320-pound Terkay mauled his opponent, Matt Hardy, with a grueling onslaught of submission holds and palm strikes. A tremendous amateur wrestler, Terkay was victorious in his first appearance on SmackDown, making Hardy tap out.

After weeks of hearing Sylvan talk about Quebec, the Montreal star faced Tatanka in his first match on SmackDown since becoming Ambassador-at-Large to “the island of tranquility in a truculent world.” In a highly physical contest, Sylvan went to use Tatanka’s own tomahawk on the Native American Superstar. Referee Nick Patrick stepped in to confiscate the weapon and as he turned his back to the action, Sylvan hit Tatanka with a low blow and followed with a spinning fireman’s carry neckbreaker for the win. After the match, Sylvan insulted Tatanka and his Lakota heritage by removing Tatanka’s headdress from the ringpost and disgustfully dropping it to the floor.

With both Ashley and Kristal at ringside, Jillian Hall took on Michelle McCool in Diva singles action. After an aggressive display from both Divas, Michelle stole a win from the Jillian, using the middle rope for leverage as she rolled up the former image consultant.

This week’s SmackDown hosted Diva Search Musical Chairs competition in the $250,000 Diva Search. Diva hopeful J.T. shined brightly and outlasted her competition.

The toughest man to wear a dress, Vito, squared off with fitness fanatic Simon Dean. From the announce table, JBL said that he spoke with Simon earlier in the day and SmackDown’s fitness guru said he thinks Vito “uses the dress to gain a psychological advantage over his opponents.” Psychological advantage or not, Vito earned a win over Simon, leaving Vito still undefeated since donning a dress on Friday Night SmackDown.

MATCHES:

Mr. Kennedy defeated Batista
via a Countout

Vito defeated Simon Dean

Sylvan defeated Tatanka

Michelle McCool defeated Jillian Hall

"U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP"
U.S. Champion Finlay defeated William Regal
to retain the title

Sylvester Terkay defeated Matt Hardy

"WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP"
World Heavyweight Champion King Booker defeated Rey Mysterio
to retain the title

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SMACKDOWN # 364
8-4-06 Taped 7-31-06
Continental Airlines Arena
East Rutherford, New Jersey

On a fast-paced Friday night, The Great Khali ruined a classic encounter between a Champion King and a Phenom, Chavo Guerrero and Rey Mysterio dramatically clashed, Lashley returned to the ring in a big way, and Batista relieved three weeks of frustration when he took out the obnoxious Mr. Kennedy, all on another action-filled edition of SmackDown.

Friday’s main event presented a blockbuster of royal proportions. His majesty, the World Heavyweight Champion King Booker, took on WWE’s resident Deadman Undertaker in what many fans would call a dream match. King Booker, who achieved immortality when he captured the Championship at The Great American Bash, has been thrown right into the fire since taking the gold and Friday was his toughest test to date. Undertaker, who made a rare SmackDown appearance was looking to make a statement, and that’s exactly what he did. Still riding the momentum from his win in the Punjabi Prison Match at the Bash, the Phenom used his advantage in size and strength to push the King around and at several times appeared to be on the verge of taking the “royal splendor” right out of the Champ. The resilient King Booker however was not discouraged as he fought back, displaying the determination that got him to where he is today and is required of any reigning Champion. The decorated veterans relied on their years of experience and 10 World Championships between them to give the Meadowlands crowd their money’s worth and more. As the match reached its boiling point, Undertaker seemed poised to put the nail in the coffin, drilling King Booker with a trademark chokeslam. However, before Taker could go for the cover, The Great Khali came through the curtain and interrupted the match. His involvement forced the referee to call for the bell, in effect putting a halt to what should have been one of the more memorable matches in recent SmackDown history. Khali and Undertaker exchanged blows, with the Phenom holding his own and forcing the Punjabi warrior from the ring. Seconds later, Undertaker took the microphone and made a grave challenge. “Great Khali,” said the Phenom. “You…me…SummerSlam…Last Man Standing.” Khali did not respond to the offer on SmackDown, but with all that has gone down between these two monsters, a Last Man Standing match at SummerSlam would be nothing short of an all-out combat.

Chavo Guerrero finally went on the record to address his startling actions at The Great American Bash. There, he interfered in Rey Mysterio’s World Championship match and nearly took his close friend’s head off with a chair, allowing King Booker to make the pin and take the gold. Friday night, an emotional Chavo Guerrero made some stunning accusations. “Rey Mysterio betrayed me,” said a serious Chavo. “Rey Mysterio is a thief. Let me tell you what he stole. He tried to steal the spotlight, my spotlight. He did everything he could to tie himself to Eddie Guerrero because Rey couldn’t stand on his own two feet. I saved you from losing your title over and over. He used the Guerrero name… I’m the Guerrero Rey, not you. Rey, you didn’t just steal Eddie from me, you didn’t just steal him from the Guerrero family, you stole the memory of Eddie from each and every one of those people out there. You’re nothing but a leach living off the blood of the Guerrero name.” By the time Chavo finished his rant, Rey had heard enough and stormed the ring. The men who were once the closest of friends engaged in fisticuffs which were only broken up when Vickie Guerrero, the widow of the legendary Eddie Guerrero, intervened. Vickie bravely stepped between the two former allies and yelled “enough, enough!” as Rey and Chavo backed off. On Smackdown, what was once an unbreakable relationship between close friends turned into a bitter family squabble in a matter of minutes.

Over the last few weeks, Mr. Kennedy has narrowly escaped the unrelenting grasp of Batista. Using his ring savvy, and a whole lot of luck, Kennedy reeled off two consecutive victories over The Animal. At the Bash, it was a DQ, and last week, it was a count-out, but this week on SmackDown, The Animal finally got his prey. In their two previous encounters, built-up frustration caused Batista to be overaggressive, and he suffered the consequences. On this night, The Animal’s aggression led to a definitive and dominating win over his cocky and annoying opponent. Batista put Kennedy away in convincing fashion, dropping the Green Bay native with the spinebuster and then the signature Batista Bomb. After the match, Michael Cole caught up with Batista to congratulate him on his hard fought victory. Batista shook off the accolades and sent a message to SmackDown’s top stars: “The only congratulations I want is when I get my Championship back.”

This week’s show was full of WWE debuts, but it also featured the return of one of SmackDown’s hardest hitting Superstars. The return of Lashley overshadowed the third installment of the brutal and now personal battle of former colleagues Finlay and William Regal. The United States Champion, Finlay, was disqualified after he hit Regal with the shillelagh, but the big news was in the events that immediately followed. Lashley, who was briefly sidelined with an injury rushed the ring and headed for the Champ. He was temporarily slowed when Finlay hit him with the shillelagh, but seconds later, he was able to take out his aggression on Regal. The result was a devastating powerslam that left Regal grounded, and shook the foundation of SmackDown as it’s hardest hitting newcomer is officially back.

As previously mentioned, this week’s show was full of SmackDown debuts. Last week, the new talent initiative brought in Sylvester Terkay, who bullied his way to victory over Matt Hardy. This week, Terkay’s associate Elijah Burke got in the ring at Sylvester’s urging and dismantled Scott Wright. The overmatched Wright was menaced both during the match and after. After Burke took recorded the pinfall, Terkay stepped through the ropes to get a piece for himself. The experienced brawler took an already injured Wright apart, rebelling against the theory that you should never kick a man while he’s down.

SmackDown also hosted the debut of Michelle McCool’s new tag team, whom she referred to as her “Teacher’s Pets”. The pets, K.C. James & Idol Stevens, had nothing short of an impressive debut as they displayed what looked to be years of tag-team experience in their triumph over Scotty 2 Hotty & Funaki.

General Manager Theodore Long was greeted in his office by another newcomer when Montel Vontavious Porter, also known as M.V.P. dropped by. The dapper young athlete recommended that Long should sign him up for the SmackDown roster and referred him to his agent before departing. With the additions of Terkay, Burke, James & Idol and M.V.P, it certainly seems as though the new talent initiative is in full effect on SmackDown.

While newcomers were plentiful this week, a familiar old face also graced the ring when Brooklyn Brawler showed up on SmackDown. Fresh off his appearance at ECW on Sci Fi, in which he proved that he wasn’t quite as extreme as he once was, Brawler faced off with fellow New Yorker Vito in one-on-one action. The toughest man in a dress kept the hot streak going by taking out the WWE legend. Since donning the dress, Vito is undefeated. This week, we also got to see exclusive footage of Vito working out at a local gym in his native Brooklyn.

SmackDown wouldn’t be complete without a visit from the sexiest women on TV. Diva Search Alumni Ashley and Kristal added another chapter to their blossoming rivalry this week. Kristal, who appears to be overly jealous Ashley for winning the 2005 Diva Search, took the low road by grabbing the tights in her victory over the punk-rock Diva.

And speaking of Divas, the 2006 edition of $250,000 Diva Search continued this week on SmackDown. Each of the aspiring Divas was met with adversity this week when they were pied in their face during confessionals. For a full report on this week’s Diva Search happenings…

Besides Batista, another SmackDown Superstar got a taste of revenge on this week’s show. Tatanka, who last week was cheated in his match against Quebec’s ambassador-at-large Sylvan, was able to turn the tables this time around. The snooty resident of Montreal recorded a questionable victory over Tatanka last week, and then added insult to injury when he threw the Native American warrior’s tribal headdress to the ground. This week, he was given a receipt when Tatanka put him away with the Wykea.

MATCHES:

Batista defeated Mr. Kennedy

Elijah Burke defeated Scott Wright

K.C. James & Idol Stevens defeated Scotty 2 Hotty & Funaki

Kristal Marshal defeated Ashley Masaro

Tatanka defeated Sylvan

Vito defeated The Brooklyn Brawler

"U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP"
William Regal defeated U.S. Champion Finlay
via a disqualification

The Undertaker defeated World Champion King Booker
via a disqualification

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SMACKDOWN # 365
8-11-06 Taped 8-8-06
Gaylord Entertainment Center
Nashville, Tennessee

On a chaotic edition of SmackDown from Nashville, The Great Khali’s master plan to avoid facing Undertaker in a Last Man Standing Match was spoiled in a big way when he received a ground breaking chokeslam from the Phenom. To make matters worse, SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long ordered the Punjabi warrior to meet Undertaker in a Last Man Standing match next week on the show. Also, Batista dominated the Tag-Team main event and then had a message for King Booker, and the family feud between Rey Mysterio, Chavo and an innocent Vickie Guerrero continued, all as SmackDown surges towards the biggest party of the Summer.

Two weeks ago on SmackDown, Undertaker challenged Great Khali to a Last Man Standing match at SummerSlam. This week, Daivari and Khali immediately addressed the situation. “Undertaker, you might as well be a dead man…” said Khali’s spokesman. “Because, to The Great Khali, you do not exist. He’s beat you down week after week after week. You are nothing to The Great Khali. We do not accept your challenge for a Last Man Standing Match at SummerSlam.” Seconds later, with Daivari and Khali still in the ring, Undertaker took matters into his own hands. The Phenom rushed the ring and immediately went after the Punjabi monster. The Deadman softened him up with a barrage of lefts and rights and then delivered a statement that shook the foundation of SmackDown. With Khali wobbly and vulnerable, Undertaker grabbed for his throat, elevated him and drove him to the mat with a thunderous chokeslam. Not only was it the first time anyone manhandled The Great Khali, but it was the first time anyone even took the 7 foot 3, 420 pound monster off his feet. Moments later, SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long delivered the final blow to Khali’s auspicious evening. “The Great Khali will not wrestle Undertaker at SummerSlam,” said Long. “Because next week, right here on SmackDown, The Great Khali will go one-on-one with Undertaker in a Last Man Standing Match.”

The main event on SmackDown was a tag match pitting power vs. experience as Batista and Lashley teamed up to take on Finlay and his partner William Regal. The unique pairings provided the kind of aggressive action that you can only find on SmackDown. Finlay and Regal, who themselves have been going at it for weeks, used their advantage in technical wrestling to keep the bigger men off their feet. The strategy however didn’t work for long because when Batista got into the ring, things broke down in a hurry. The former World Heavyweight Champion, who in recent weeks has repeatedly spoken of his desire to regain the gold showed the fire that made him such a dominant Champion. The Animal made quick work of the opposition, obliterating Regal with a high-impact spinebuster and scoring the pin. After the match, Batista addressed King Booker, who had joined Michael Cole and JBL for commentary. “Nothing personal Booker, but thanks for holding onto my Championship for me,” said the former Champ. “At SummerSlam, I’ll be needing that back.” Whether or not Batista can slow down the streaking King is still up in the air. But one thing is for sure, if he delivers a spinebuster to King Booker the likes of the one he gave William Regal, the gold could very easily be changing hands at SummerSlam.

Former World Champion Rey Mysterio faced off with the red-hot Mr. Kennedy, but the match was interrupted and overshadowed by the continuation of the emotional and dramatic family feud between Rey and former close friend Chavo Guerrero. Eddie Guerrero’s widow Vickie, who last week found herself in the middle of the bitter family dispute was at SmackDown again this week. In the locker room, an emotionally distraught Vickie tried to talk some sense into the former friends. Chavo however, tried to turn the tables. Echoing many of the sentiments he shared last week, Chavo told Vickie that Rey was to blame for the family squabbles. “I didn’t start this Vickie. I know things are messed up lately, but I’ve known you for a long time,” said Chavo. “Rey is trying to steal the Guerrero name. You might not be blood Vickie, but you married a Guerrero, you’re as much of a Guerrero as any of us. The fact is that Rey is trying to tear our family apart. His last name is not Guerrero.” Chavo continued, promising Vickie that he would do his best to avoid further confrontation. “I will do my best,” said Chavo. “In honor of Eddie, I will do my best to avoid that bottom feeding leech Rey Mysterio. Later, Rey Mysterio made a similar promise to Vickie. “I’ll try my best in the name of Eddie Guerrero…” said Rey. “I’ll try to avoid fighting him. I can’t guarantee anything, but I guarantee you I will try my best.” By the time the night was over, only one man had honored his promise. Showing the resiliency that has made him the Superstar that he is today, Rey was able to shake off the distractions of his family affairs and focus on the match at hand. But, just when he appeared to be on the verge of putting Kennedy away, Chavo stormed the ring. Rey met his former friend with a sliding dropkick and an intense brawl immediately ensued. Overwhelmed, Vickie came ringside in an attempt to break up the fight, but found herself in the wrong place at the wrong time as she was inadvertently knocked down when Chavo pushed Rey into her. Noticing the innocent peacemaker lying helpless on the arena floor, Rey turned his attention to a motionless Vickie. Seconds later, Chavo showed the world his true colors when he leveled Rey from behind with a cheap shot. What was at one time a minor scuffle between friends has officially escalated into a full scale family feud.

SmackDown also played host to another of its many celebrity fans this week. The star of NBC’s new hit show ‘Windfall’ and Nashville’s own Luke Perry appeared on this week’s show. First, the veteran actor was seen hitting on two of the sexiest women on television, Ashley and Kristal. Later, he participated in this week’s Diva Search Talent Contest. The final four 2006 $250,000 Diva Search contestants participated in the Diva Search Talent Show to demonstrate to the WWE fans what they do best. Diva Search host Mike “The Miz” Mizanin called on the star of NBC’s “Windfall” and Nashville, Tenn., native, actor Luke Perry, to be a guest judge. In front of the Nashville crowd, one by one, Jen England, Layla El, Milena Roucka and J.T. Tinney displayed their talents. “I think we want to see someone who executes well, who finishes strong; someone to bring the love, Nashville-style,” Perry said. First, Jen called upon a volunteer, Josh from Nashville, to help her demonstrate her talent – a tribute to her favorite former WWE Superstar, Stone Cold Steve Austin. After knocking around Josh with a couple of kicks, Jen opened up two beers, poured them all over her body, downed some, threw the cans around the ring and said, “Nashville, I’m here to kick some ass with class. … Who wants to have a Jenweiser with me?” as she did her best Stone Cold impression while wearing a red bikini, the bottoms emblazoned with “JEN". Next up was Layla. Dressed in a sexy police uniform, she said, “I’m going to lay the law down.” She whipped off her belt and spanked Perry with it, then ripped off her police officer’s suit to reveal a red bikini. Layla began her talent routine – dancing – but slipped on the beer from the Jenweiser. Layla continued to strut her stuff, but obviously irritated at Jen, she threw one of Jen’s beer cans at her, which resulted in the twosome getting into a shoving and spanking match, and both ended up rolling around in the ring. “She knew I was going to dance,” Layla said of the Jen’s beer spillage. “Messed up. Don’t do it.” Milena was the third to showcase her talent – mixed martial arts. Dressed in a white karate uniform, Milena complained that she was feeling hot, so she tore off the uniform to reveal a leopard print two piece and fishnet stockings. Once again, with the help of the volunteer, Josh, Milena demonstrated her martial arts moves. With the remaining time, Milena danced around the ring and thanked the WWE fans for their votes. “I’m going to earn your respect, I promise, you guys. I love you,” she said. Finally, J.T. demonstrated her talent for the crowd – reciting her own poetry about the Diva Search while wearing a tiny black bikini. “I’ve got confidence and class, and I’m ready to fight,” she says. J.T. gets a little feisty by the end of her poem, provoking the other Diva Search finalists. “When you get into this run, your ass is done,” she said with determination. After J.T.’s poetry, Perry visited each Diva Finalist one-by-one in the ring, asking the Nashville crowd to clap for their favorite contestant. While the crowd reaction was mixed for most of the girls, it was obvious Nashville liked Layla’s police officer dance routine the best, as Perry named her the winner of the evening.

Several of SmackDown’s rising young stars were also in action this week on SmackDown. Fresh of their impressive debuts of a week ago, Michelle McCool’s teacher’s pets, K.C. James and Idol Stevens were back in action. The smooth newcomers sent a message to the tag-team division and immediately put themselves in the Championship hunt when they took out current Tag-Team Champions London & Kendrick in non-title action.

Also, renowned bully and amateur wrestling specialist Sylvester Terkay was back in action. The decorated newcomer dominated another opponent both before and after the bell. In just three weeks, Terkay has established himself as an absolute force to be reckoned with for any and all WWE Superstars.

Montel Vontavious Porter was seen chatting with SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long in the locker room again this week. Long attempted to make an offer to M.V.P., but was again referred to the young Superstar’s agent.

The longest current reigning Champion in all of WWE, Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms, was also in action this week. The king of the Cruiserweight mountain recorded a controversial victory over the Native American Tatanka when the referee failed to notice Tatanka’s leg under the rope during the pin. Afterwards, Tatanka was irate with the referee’s mistake.

Vito remained undefeated since donning the dress as he danced his way to victory over the Ambassador-at-Large to Quebec, Sylvan.

The Boogeyman is coming back to SmackDown. For those viewers that missed the announcement, a special video package aired this week to remind fans of this imminent return.

MATCHES:

Gregory Helms defeated Tatanka

K.C. James & Idol Stevens defeated London & Kendrick

Rey Mysterio vs Mr. Kennedy
ended in a No Contest

Vito defeated Sylvan

Sylvester Terkay defeated A Local Wrestler

Batista & Bobby Lashley defeated Fit Finlay & William Regal

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SMACKDOWN # 366
8-18-06 Taped 8-15-06
Verizon Center
Washington, D.C.

Just two days before The Animal looks to regain the richest prize in all of sports-entertainment, Batista made a momentous return to his hometown crowd of Washington, D.C. on SmackDown and seized the throne of World Heavyweight Champion King Booker. Based on the events of Friday’s SmackDown, one has to believe that at SummerSlam, the “biggest party of the summer” could become the celebration of a new champion. Batista opened up SmackDown by facing Quebec’s Ambassador-at-Large, Sylvan, who said that he’d show the world his province’s greatness by beating the hometown hero. An ambassador in his own right to the nation’s capitol, Batista made extremely short work of Sylvan and gained ample momentum before his championship match this Sunday. Later in the night, the reigning World Heavyweight Champion King Booker came to the ring to make a royal decree in The Animal’s hometown. The King proclaimed that he will “march into SummerSlam and beat [Batista] to a royal, bloody pulp beyond recognition.” His majesty then offered his SummerSlam challenger an option that would bring Batista to the ring. Rather than facing the King on Sunday, King Booker gave Batista the option to bow down, get on his knees and kiss the King’s “royal feet.” With Batista seemingly contemplating his option, Queen Sharmell removed his majesty’s shoe and exposed the King’s foot. The Animal dropped to one knee, but then quickly rose and stomped on the champion’s toes. Providing a heaping dose of humility, Batista then knocked King Booker to the outside, draped himself in the King’s red cape and sat triumphantly upon the royal throne. Batista was never pinned for the World Heavyweight Championship eight months ago and The Animal believes that he is the rightful champion. After what we saw on Friday night, it’s clear that Batista is on fire and ready to reclaim the gold this Sunday.

Also on SmackDown, just as she promised WWE.com in an exclusive interview last week, Vickie Guerrero pleaded with Theodore Long to call off the match between Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero at SummerSlam. The common denominator between Rey and Chavo is Eddie Guerrero. With Eddie gone, Vickie has been in the middle of these men as she’s tried desperately to restore the peace between them. Vickie explained that the match between Rey and Chavo is tearing her family apart and that Long is the only one who has the power to cancel their match. “If Eddie was here, he’d want [Rey and Chavo] to resolve this peacefully,” an emotional Vickie said to Long. “In the name of Eddie, you have to stop this. I am begging you, Teddy.” Long respectfully denied Vickie’s request, saying that the only way to resolve the personal conflict between Rey and Chavo is for them to be “man against man, face-to-face in the ring.” “The match this Sunday at SummerSlam,” Long said, “is still on.” The General Manager was forced to make a tough decision this Friday on SmackDown. And despite the emotional plea of Vickie Guerrero, the issue between Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero will be settled in the ring this Sunday.

Two of WWE’s most feared monsters met on Friday as Undertaker conquered his foe, The Great Khali, in grueling a Last Man Standing Match. In this match, the only way to win was for one man to beat his opponent to the point where he could not respond to the referee’s count of 10. Given the nature of this contest, fans were in for one of the most savage battles in SmackDown history. Both Undertaker and Khali exchanged a salvo of clubbing blows and massive boots for several minutes. With Khali down momentarily, Daivari eventually got involved and lured the Phenom from the ring and toward the SmackDown stage. Khali followed and got the advantage in the match by bashing his opponent into the mirrored glass of the SmackDown set. The Punjabi giant tossed Undertaker off the stage into tables many feet below, but the Deadman would rise – just as he has many times before in his career. The behemoth Khali beat the Phenom back toward the ring; Undertaker sustained this attack until getting his arms tied up in the ropes. With the Deadman in a vulnerable position, Khali landed four mighty chops and the same big boot that led to Undertaker’s defeat to Khali at Judgment Day. Somehow, the resilient Undertaker did his signature sit-up and again engaged in battle with Khali. The Deadman used the steel steps to bash Khali in his giant cranium and then leveled Khali with multiple shots to the head with a steel chair, causing Khali to bleed from his skull. Later, the giant would need nine stitches to close the wound inflicted by the Phenom. Despite the porous crimson blood that ran from his monstrous head, Khali rose back to his feet. Undertaker landed two more hits with the chair – denting it with the impression of his enemy’s cranium – and dropped The Great Khali with a colossal chokeslam. After felling the giant, the Punjabi warrior could not get up to beat the count of 10 and Undertaker was declared the victor in this unbelievably brutal encounter.

In a most appropriate setting, the United States Championship was at stake in Washington, D.C. as Lashley clashed with Finlay, the man who stole the championship from Lashley last month. As always with Finlay, Lashley had to contend with not just his opponent, but also Little Bastard, Finlay’s shillelagh and William Regal. Lashley seemed to have Finlay beat until Regal pulled the referee from the ring before he could count to three. Though Lashley won by disqualification, he did not win the U.S. Championship. After the bell rang, Lashley managed to overcome a triple team assault by his enemies. He then added an exclamation point by hurling a steel chair at the head of the U.S. Champion. It seems as if Regal and Finlay’s on-again-off-again relationship is back on for the time being. Can Lashley overcome the odds that are stacked so high against him in his pursuit to reclaim the U.S. gold?

SmackDown newcomers K.C. James and Idol Stevens continued to make an impression on the WWE Tag Team Champions. In an interview with Kristal, London and Kendrick addressed their loss to James and Stevens last week and explained that they are looking forward to facing Michelle McCool’s teacher’s pets again. Suddenly, James and Stevens ambushed the champions and used anything they could find backstage to batter London and Kendrick. McCool watched on, directing the fierce assault until she herself got involved by striking London across his back with her ruler. Leaving the WWE Tag Team Champions beaten down on SmackDown, James and Stevens sent a resounding message that they are hungry for tag team gold.

SmackDown veteran Scotty 2 Hotty faced the bully Sylvester Terkay. Terkay brutalized the Master of the Worm throughout the match and after pinning Scotty, he continued the physical punishment as he has done for the past few weeks.

With champagne in one hand and cell phone in the other, Montel Vontavious Porter watched SmackDown from the skybox of the Verizon Center flanked by three sexy valets. Given that his agent is still in contract negotiations with Theodore Long, MVP scouted what could soon become his competition on Friday nights.

Mr. Kennedy also earned a controversial victory over Tatanka. With a handful of the Native American Superstar’s tights, Kennedy pinned Tatanka to not only continue his hot streak, but also perpetuate Tatanka’s recent bad luck in the ring.

Also maintaining a streak of his own this week was Vito, who gained another victory on SmackDown. In addition to competing on Friday night, the rugged Italian spent his afternoon visiting the national landmarks in the area and showed off his newest threads. Vito has been undefeated since embracing this alternative attire, and the toughest man to ever wear a dress has proven to be just that.

Finally, on SmackDown, we saw a video of The Boogeyman’s most horrifying exploits in WWE. The Boogeyman is coming back to SmackDown…but when?

MATCHES:

Batista defeated Sylvan

Sylvester Terkay defeated Scotty 2 Hotty

Mr. Kennedy defeated Tatanka

- LAST MAN STANDING MATCH -
Undertaker defeated The Great Khali

Vito defeated Scott Fowler

"U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP"
Lashley defeated Finlay
via a disqualification

---

SMACKDOWN # 367
8-25-06 Taped 8-22-06
Wachovia Arena
Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

Days after defeating King Booker by disqualification at SummerSlam, Batista beat the World Heavyweight Champion for the second time in one week by pinning his majesty in the center of the ring on SmackDown. After Friday night, it’s clear that The Animal’s quest to reclaim the gold he relinquished eight months ago will not be suppressed.

This segment is missing from this show. Approx: 29 minutes in length.
To open up SmackDown, King Booker stood in the ring beside Queen Sharmell and his most loyal subjects, United States Champion Finlay and William Regal. Earlier in the week on WWE.com, the King had requested that all peasants in his SmackDown kingdom be present for the knighting of his trusted protectors. On the 34th day of King Booker’s reign as “king of the world,” Finlay and Regal bowed to the majestic champion as he drew his medieval sword from its sheath to officially ordain them his “royal knights extraordinaire.” Dubbed Sir William Regal and Sir Finlay (the first Irishman to be knighted since Sir William Grampe in 1468), the royal paladins began to leave the ring with their King until a fearless Lashley stormed the ring filled with his enemies. Spearing Finlay and fighting off the royal court, Lashley eventually succumbed to a triple-team attack that drew Batista to the ring to even up the odds. To restore order, General Manager Theodore Long came out to address the five combatants, saying that he spoke with all of them earlier and as they all agreed, the main event of the night would be a two-on-three match between the King’s Court and the powerhouse team of Lashley and Batista.

The tag team encounter gave the newly knighted Finlay and Regal the opportunity to defend the honor of their King. A very rough and fierce contest, the match soon became a three-and-a-half-on-two match when Little Bastard appeared. Finlay fetched Little Bastard who scaled the steel steps and ran off the ring apron on top of Lashley as he recovered on the arena floor. The resilient Lashley somehow overcame his opponents and made his way to his corner to tag in The Animal. The former champion tossed around the knights extraordinaire and sought to get his hands on King Booker. Scepter in hand, the King swung at Batista, missed and walked right into a massive spinebuster. Batista then pinned the World Heavyweight Champion, just days after defeating his majesty at SummerSlam. Similar to the aftermath of the championship match last Sunday, Batista released his frustration on King Booker and defeated the World Heavyweight Champion yet again.

In Friday night’s most appalling event, Vickie Guerrero ended her SmackDown address by leveling Rey Mysterio with a steel chair and hugging Chavo. Vickie and Chavo left Wilkes-Barre, Penn. with cold, expressionless faces as Mysterio lay helpless in the ring, emotionally and physically anguished. Click here to read more details about Vickie’s attack.

In other Friday night action, Matt Hardy collided with Mr. Kennedy as the longest current reigning champion in sports-entertainment, Gregory Helms, sat at the SmackDown announce table. Claiming that Hardy was one-half of “one of the most revolutionary tag teams in WWE history,” Helms provided ample color commentary throughout the match. With victories over two former World Champions, Rey Mysterio and Batista in the past month, Kennedy continued his hot streak on SmackDown. The highly competitive match unfortunately ended with controversy as the Cruiserweight Champion got off commentary to drop Hardy’s neck over the top rope. Kennedy capitalized with a neckbreaker of his own and scored the pinfall, as a smiling Helms looked on at the fallen Hardy. Following the return of his brother, Jeff, on RAW, Matt Hardy suffered a disappointing loss to Kennedy, but his tremendous effort reflected what was certainly a great week for both Hardy Boyz.

Paul London faced K.C. James one-on-one, as both men’s respective tag team partners watched on at ringside. The quick-paced match came to an abrupt close when London scaled the turnbuckle for a high-risk move and the Pitbulls made a sudden appearance. The ferocious Noble and Kash assaulted London until the other half of the WWE Tag Team Champions, Brian Kendrick, got involved. K.C. James and Idol Stevens then entered the melee and the three teams fought until officials came to break it all up. Based on the events of Friday night, the SmackDown tag team division has certainly heated up. From the Pitbulls toMichelle McCool’s “teacher’s pets,” everyone is hungry for the WWE Tag Team Championship. More than ever before in their three-month championship reign, London and Kendrick are feeling the pressure that comes with the gold and it seems they had better keep a keen eye over their shoulders.

On SmackDown, Tatanka squared off with the undefeated hybrid wrestler, Sylvester Terkay. With Elijah Burke in his corner, Terkay faced perhaps his toughest challenge to date in Tatanka – who was once undefeated himself for two years in WWE. Tatanka laid into Terkay with hard chops and clotheslines, and struggled to take Terkay off his feet. The Native American Warrior ultimately landed a tomahawk chop from the top rope to become the first man to take Terkay off his feet, into a pinning predicament. Tatanka went for the pin, but Terkay got his leg over the bottom rope before the count of three. After two straight weeks of missed calls by WWE referees that led to losses, Tatanka believed he was getting screwed yet again and got in the official’s face to complain. The Lakota tribesman turned his attention away from Terkay and walked into a massive roundhouse kick to the head. Taking advantage of the situation, Terkay’s kick proved to be enough for the man from Big Bear, Ca. to get the win.

Sports-entertainment’s most eligible free agent, Montel Vontavious Porter, had a close view of SmackDown action on Friday, as he sat at ringside with two gorgeous females. M.V.P. was most amused by the unorthodox attire of Vito, who faced Sylvan in a SmackDown rematch from two weeks ago. Vito continued his impressive winning streak against Quebec’s Ambassador-at-Large, but after picking up the win, Vito took exception to Porter’s reaction to the dress-clad Italian. Vito grabbed a microphone and invited M.V.P. into the ring for a fight. M.V.P. removed his gold jewelry and sunglasses, hopped the barricade and made his way over to the ring steps. Just before things heated up between the two, Porter stopped at the top step to answer his vibrating cell phone. After speaking to his agent via cell phone, Porter backed away from the fight, citing that he was not yet a contracted SmackDown Superstar. “No contract, no contact,” said the brash M.V.P., moments before he and his ladies left the Wachovia Arena.

Another new face on SmackDown, Layla El, made her first appearance on SmackDown since winning the $250,000 2006 Diva Search. Interviewed by The Miz, WWE’s newest Diva began to talk about the recent excitement in her life until Miz interrupted her to talk about someone else’s debut…his own. A confident Miz declared that his first match will take place next week and will be what he called “the biggest debut in SmackDown history.” Though Miz seemingly stole the spotlight from Layla, the Diva Search winner still seemed to be genuinely elated to be in front of the Wilkes-Barre crowd on SmackDown.

However enthused, one Diva that Layla should keep her distance from is the attitudinal Kristal, who earned a victory over Jillian Hall on SmackDown. Just as she was victorious on Friday night, Kristal pinned last year’s Diva Search winner, Ashley a few weeks ago. As the new Diva on the block, Layla should be wary of the catty Kristal and WWE’s other less welcoming Divas.

In addition to all the in-ring action, SmackDown fans saw a video that again showcased Boogeyman’s most horrid exploits. Boogeyman will be in action soon on SmackDown, and so will another Superstar that we were introduced to on Friday: a most unusual redneck, Jimmy Wayne Yang.

Finally, it was announced on Friday night that the next SmackDown brand-exclusive event, No Mercy, will take place on Sunday, 10-8-06.

MATCHES:

Mr. Kennedy defeated Matt Hardy

Sylvester Terkay defeated Tatanka

Paul London vs K.C. James
ended in a No Contest

Kristal Marshall defeated Jillian Hall

Vito defeated Sylvan

Batista & Bobby Lashley
defeated
World Heavyweight Champion King Booker, U.S. Champion Finlay and William Regal

---

SMACKDOWN # 368
9-1-06 Taped 8-29-06
Sovereign Center
Reading, Pennsylvania

On a chaotic edition of Friday Night SmackDown from Reading, the Animal gave himself a signing bonus when he drove King Booker through a table just moments after signing a contract for a World Heavyweight Championship match on next week’s show. Also, Mr. Kennedy captured the United States Championship, and Vickie Guerrero shocked the world when she announced that she is Chavo Guerrero’s new business manager.

On Friday night, General Manager Theodore Long decided that the issue between King Booker and Batista had not been adequately resolved, therefore, he ordered a contract signing for a match on next week’s SmackDown for King Booker’s World Heavyweight Championship. Prior to the signing, King Booker addressed his SmackDown Kingdom. “My loyal subjects, this rematch for my World Heavyweight Championship is nothing more than a sham,” said the King. “This rogue Batista is nothing more than a fraud. A fraud who could not beat me at the SummerSlam games. It is a farce, that a ruler as wise and mighty as I should even breathe the same air as this scoundrel, not to mention having to wrestle him. But, I will. I will prove beyond any shadow of a doubt that a King’s royalty can tame the beast called Batista.” Batista responded to the King. “You are only Champion because of a technicality,” said the Animal. “You never beat me for the gold, and you better get that through your pompous, inflated, thick head because next week, I’m taking back my World Heavyweight Championship.” Seconds later, Batista drove his point home with authority when he picked up the Champion and sent him through a table with a devastating spinebuster. What will happen next week when the Animal gets his shot at redemption?

Earlier in the evening, Mr. McMahon’s hired guns from SummerSlam and RAW, United States Champion Finlay and Mr. Kennedy were seen arguing in Theodore Long’s office over who the real United States Champion should be. After listening in on the conversation, Long decided to let the two fight it out to determine who indeed deserved to hold the U.S. gold, but not before promising to “spice it up". Seconds before the match began, Long revealed what he meant when he promised to spice things up. “I told you I was going to add a little something to this match playa,” said the General Manager. “This match is going to be a Triple Threat, and the third member is Bobby Lashley!” The Reading crowd exploded as Lashley joined the mix. As always, in a Triple Threat match, the champion is at a distinct disadvantage because the rules state that he doesn’t need to be pinned to lose his gold. On this night, those rules did the champion in. After a lengthy match that saw wild brawling both inside and outside the ring, and appearances from Little Bastard and Finlay’s trademark shillelagh, Mr. Kennedy took advantage of a golden opportunity to capture the championship that he has apparently had his eye on since his arrival on SmackDown. With Kennedy temporarily removed from the action, Lashley appeared to have put Finlay down for the count when he powerslammed his bitter rival and went for the cover. Ever the opportunist, Kennedy jumped back in the ring and rolled Lashley over during mid-pin, holding the tights to keep Lashley down for a three-count to become the new United States Champion. Just like that, the championship slipped through Finlay’s hands without being pinned, and Kennedy made good on his word that he was indeed the real United States Champion.

Earlier in the week, sources told WWE.com that Rey Mysterio was going to kick off SmackDown looking to get answers from Vickie Guerrero regarding her recent actions. Last week on SmackDown, Vickie brutally assaulted Rey with a steel chair and then met Chavo Guerrero in an embrace as they stood over Mysterio’s motionless body. Friday night, Vickie answered Rey’s pleas and met him in the ring to explain her actions. The answers she gave however, were not the ones that Rey was hoping for as he was left heartbroken in the middle of the ring. “Rey, Eddie thought of you as a brother,” said Vickie. “He thought of you as family. But Rey, I think of you as an insignificant part of my past. It’s time for me to move on Rey. It's time for me to focus on myself. That’s why I’m happy to announce that I am the new business manager of Chavo Guerrero.” After delivering the shocking news, Vickie slapped Rey across the face and left the ring. A distraught and confused Mysterio looked on as Vickie once again shared an embrace with Chavo on the SmackDown stage.

Last week during an interview with 2006 Diva Search Winner Layla, The Miz told the world that he would be making his in-ring debut this week on SmackDown. The former reality TV star took on Tatanka in his debut, and surprised everyone when he picked up an impressive victory. The enthusiastic newcomer took advantage of a distracted Tatanka, who for the third week in a row spent more time arguing with the referee than focusing on his opponent. Mizanin’s victory however, was not without controversy, as he mocked the Native American’s culture throughout the match, and then used the ropes for leverage on the pin. After the match, the Miz celebrated his first victory like he had just won the World Championship. Nonetheless, despite what some people predicted for the Miz, he wasn’t exactly a flop in his big debut.

The following segments are missing from this show
due to the move of Smackdown from UPN to the CW network.
Only a one hour version of the original show was aired.

Also on last week’s show, Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms, who is the longest reigning current champion in all of sports-entertainment, interfered during Matt Hardy’s match with Mr. Kennedy, costing the fan-favorite the victory. This week, the two squared off in one-on-one action. In a hard fought battle full of high risk maneuvers and aggressive action, Hardy avoided Helms repeated attempts to bend the rules to pull out a well-deserved win. Luckily for Helms, it was a non-title contest, so the Cruiserweight Champion will live to fight another day.

Since donning his new unique ring apparel - a dress - Vito has been undefeated on SmackDown. This week, the unorthodox Superstar was back in action taking on Sir William Regal. It became clear from the start that the newly dubbed Knight was uncomfortable with his SmackDown assignment. Right from the start, Vito played on his opponents weaknesses, taunting Regal repeatedly by lifting and flapping his dress to get a reaction from the crowd. Not long into the match, Regal decided he’d had enough of the scantily clad Vito and retreated back to the King’s quarters. As a result, Vito was the victor via countout, keeping his streak alive since switching to the dress.

In recent weeks, SmackDown’s tag-team scene has heated up. WWE Tag-Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick were in action taking on The Pitbulls. On last week’s show, Kash and Noble interfered during the Paul London vs. K.C. James match and beat on both teams, resulting in a no-contest. This week, London & Kendrick got a small measure of revenge when they defeated the Pitbulls. After the match however, K.C. James and Idol Stevens stormed the ring and laid a beating on both teams. At the end of the night, London and Kendrick were still the tag champs, but with the intensity in the SmackDown tag-team division, it’s clear that any team could walk away with the gold on any night.

And also this week, SmackDown announcer Michael Cole interviewed free-agent Montel Vontavious Porter about his current contract status. M.V.P. told Cole that as soon as General Manager Theodore Long makes the right offer, the Smackdown roster would be dramatically upgraded. When Cole suggested that M.V.P. may be hiding behind his agent, Porter offered the following response: “Let me make something clear,” said M.V.P. “I don’t hide behind anybody. I could beat anyone in this building, any man on the SmackDown roster. Even if it means busting Batista, or rearranging the furniture in Lashley’s mouth, I am a world class athlete extraordinaire.” Whether or not M.V.P. has the goods is still in the air. Once he signs a contract, the WWE fans may finally get the answers.

MATCHES:

The Miz defeated Tatanka

Mr. Kennedy defeated Lashley and U.S. Champion Finlay

The following matches are missing from this show
due to the move of Smackdown from UPN to the CW network.
Only a one hour version of the original show was aired.

Paul London & Brian Kendrick defeated The Pitbulls

Matt Hardy defeated Gregory Helms

Vito defeated Sir William Regal
via a count-out

---

SMACKDOWN # 369
9-8-06 Taped 9-5-06
Columbus Civic Center
Columbus, Georgia

It was chaos on Friday night as SmackDown made its way through Columbus. King Booker’s Kingdom remained safe after a pissed off Finlay interfered on his behalf and took out a week’s worth of frustration on a vulnerable Animal. Also, Mr. Kennedy’s major announcement turned into a major backfire when he talked himself into a match with Undertaker at No Mercy, and week one of the Chavo and Vickie Guerrero business relationship was an overwhelming success.

There was a big fight feel Friday night when King Booker put his World Heavyweight Championship and his SmackDown Kingdom on the line against former champion Batista. At SummerSlam, the Animal was seconds away from re-capturing the gold he never lost before Queen Sharmell caused a disqualification when she interfered on the King’s behalf. This week, Batista got his chance at redemption, but once again, the King’s court cost the Animal the gold. Prior to the match, the ever-benevolent King Booker made Batista a special offer. “Batista, you can bow down now and kiss my foot…or you can take a royal ass whooping.” The Animal was not interested in the offer. Instead, he opted to give the King a royal beating of his own. The Animal relied on his strength, playing the power game early to gain the advantage on the champion. An early spear put the championship at risk, but the resilient King kicked out and re-gained control of the match. It became clear that both men did their homework prior to the match, with each man playing on their opponents weaknesses in an attempt to win the battle. As usual, the King’s court was present throughout the contest. First, Sir William Regal attempted to come through the crowd to lend a hand, but the Animal was one step ahead of him and took Regal out before he could become a factor. While he was successfully able to avoid one member of the court, another member’s interference cost him the match, and much more after the final bell. With Batista in control, Queen Sharmell once again felt her Kingdom was at risk. For the 2nd straight match, the Queen interjected herself in the contest. This time, the referee was prepared and stopped Sharmell in her tracks. The distraction however provided the opportunity for the last of the King’s loyal soldiers to make his mark. Finlay appeared out of nowhere and took Batista out with the shillelagh. A relieved King Booker rolled over and made the pin. Once again, the Kingdom survived its greatest threat. Finlay, who a week ago lost his United States Championship without being pinned, proceeded to take out his frustrations on a disabled Batista. The angry Irishman bloodied the Animal with both a steel chair, and the trademark shillelagh, all while repeating a message to the fallen former champ. “You don’t know what you’re in for Batista,” said Finlay. “I’m your worst nightmare.”

Earlier in the evening, Finlay took on a distraught Rey Mysterio in one-on-one action. Mysterio, who earlier in the week told WWE.com that he was ready to put the past behind him, was game for the challenge, but in the end, it appeared as though the former World Champion had too much on his mind. Rey missed on several of his trademark maneuvers that he usually completes seamlessly. The end came when Mysterio slipped on the rope during an attempted springboard, setting him up for the Celtic Cross which Finlay used to put the discouraged Superstar away for good. After the match, JBL tried to interview the downtrodden Mysterio. His insensitive comments however only served to send Mysterio deeper into depression. “Is it because the Guerrero family has deemed you to be nothing but a piece of crap the reason that you aren’t yourself?” asked JBL. Mysterio had no answer, and quickly retreated towards the locker room.

Part of Rey’s tailspin can be attributed to the unbelievable actions of his former friends, Chavo and Vickie Guerrero. Last week, Vickie told Rey he was nothing but an “insignificant part of her past”, before slapping her former friend. After, Vickie announced that effective immediately, she was Chavo’s new business manager. This week on SmackDown, the new alliance was put to the test. Chavo, with Vickie in his corner took on the Native American Tatanka in SmackDown competition. Before the match, Vickie told the Columbus crowd that Chavo was dedicating his match to the Guerrero legacy. Once again, Tatanka spent more time arguing with the referee, which gave Chavo the opening he needed to score a hard-fought victory. A Frog Splash finished Tatanka off, and after week one, the Guerrero alliance was undefeated.

Last week on SmackDown, Mr. Kennedy capped off an incredible rookie campaign by winning the United States Championship. This week, Mr. Kennedy came to SmackDown to celebrate by making a “major announcement”. Little did Kennedy know that while making his announcement, he would talk himself into a situation that no Superstar ever wants to find themselves in. Before the announcement however, Mr. Kennedy faced “multiple time amateur wrestling champion” Danny Giamondo in non-title action. It took all of a few minutes for the new United States Champion to finish off Giamondo with the Green Bay Plunge, before he finally took the microphone and made his major announcement. The champ called out General Manager Theodore Long and addressed the Columbus audience. “It’s obvious that I have been the brightest and the best that SmackDown has to offer,” said the smug champion. “There are no more mountains for Mr. Kennedy to climb. I figured I’d maybe take a page out of the playbook of a certain RAW Superstar who is close to being the same level of perfection as me: John Cena. What I’m getting at, is that if John Cena can potentially come to SmackDown, then I say that Mr. Kennedy can potentially go to RAW.” Mr. Kennedy’s mouth has gotten him into trouble before, but this time, he may have finally bitten off more than he can chew. Theodore Long gave Kennedy an assignment that he will dread for weeks to come. An enthusiastic Long told Kennedy, “There’s still one Superstar you haven’t beaten yet. So, at No Mercy, it will be Mr. Kennedy vs. Undertaker!” A stunned Kennedy looked on as Long ‘thugged and bugged’ his way back to his office.

Backstage, Theodore Long bumped into sports-entertainments hottest free-agent, Montel Vontavious Porter. For the 3rd week in a row, MVP was at the arena with a few of the areas most attractive young ladies. Long stopped the unsigned Superstar for a quick update on their contract negotiations. MVP told Long, “Whatever money you give John Cena, I want that kind of money plus one dollar.” Long wasn’t impressed and reminded MVP that on SmackDown, it’s “no contract, no contact”, so Porter would have to buy himself a seat if he hoped to remain in the building.

Fresh off his impressive debut of a week ago, The Miz was back in action this week, taking on Matt Hardy. Before the match, Mizanin addressed the Columbus fans. “We’re in the home of the Little League World Series Champions,” said the Miz. “But forget about all that because the big news in sports right now, is that the Miz won in his SmackDown debut…Hoo-rah!” In his second match, Miz kept the momentum going when he pinned fan-favorite Matt Hardy. For a while however, it looked like the Miz’ short undefeated streak would come to an abrupt end. In the closing minutes, Hardy went to the top rope in an attempt to deliver the finishing blow, but for the 2nd time in three weeks, the man who Hardy beat on last weeks show: Gregory Helms, interfered, costing the North Carolina native the match. For the Miz, the win pushed his spotless, albeit short career record to 2-0.

Last week, Sir William Regal walked out on his match with the dress wearing Vito, citing an unwillingness to get anywhere near his “ghastly undercarriage”. Sir Regal was slated to face Vito again this week, but threatened SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long with a sexual harassment lawsuit to get out of the match. Instead, Sir Regal had the pleasure of facing the hard-hitting Bobby Lashley. With Vito at ringside for commentary, Lashley made quick work of the newly anointed Knight, putting Regal away with a devastating spear.

Finally, in 6-man mixed tag-team action, WWE Tag-Team Champions London & Kendrick teamed up with Diva Ashley to defeat Michelle McCool and her teacher’s pets, K.C. James and Idol Stevens.

MATCHES:

Fit Finlay defeated Rey Mysterio

United States Champion Mr. Kennedy defeated Danny Giamondo

WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick and Ashley Masaro
defeated
K.C. James & Idol Stevens and Michelle McCool

Bobby Lashley defeated Sir William Regal

"The Miz" Mike Mizanin defeated Matt Hardy

Chavo Guerrero defeated Tatanka

"WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP"
World Heavyweight Champion King Booker defeated Batista

---

SMACKDOWN # 370
9-15-06 Taped 9-12-06
D.C.U. Center
Worcester Massachusettes

There was more upheaval in the King’s Court this week, and between a ghost-like leprechaun, an enraged Animal and a man in a dress, things are looking more like Spamalot than Camelot for King Booker and his SmackDown subjects. Bobby Lashley defeated Finlay to become No. 1 Contender for the World Heavyweight Championship and Batista exacted revenge on the Irish brawler for last week’s assault. Also, the Chavo-Vickie Guerrero business partnership once again distracted Rey Mysterio from regaining his freewheeling disposition, and King Booker found out who his unlikely opponent will be when SmackDown premieres on CW next week.

As SmackDown began, Finlay strode through the curtain with the microphone in one hand and what appeared to be his trusty friend Little Bastard in the other. On this night, however, the little guy was covered with some sort of sheet, and Finlay tried to keep him subdued while he delivered his much-anticipated explanation of the brutal assault he delivered to Batista last week. After watching the beating, Finlay told the SmackDown fans in Worcester, Mass., “Don’t expect Batista to be here tonight. Batista’s probably hiding in a little dark hole licking his wounds, or he may be in a hospital eating his dinner through a straw. You thought Batista was a superman. Well, to me, Batista is not even a man.” The irate Irishman was interrupted by a surly Bobby Lashley. The two have had more than their share of brawls since The Great American Bash back in July, but as Lashley disrupted Finlay, no one in attendance could have guessed that just moments later, their most important match yet would be announced. “Only someone like you would jump Batista from his back with that shillelagh. That’s not an act of bravery, that’s an act of cowardice,” Lashley scolded. “You say you’re Irish, well your luck just ran out.” Lashley couldn’t have known that his words would in fact ring true, but SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long appeared instantly to confirm the prediction. The charismatic GM declared that Lashley and Finlay would go head to head to determine the No. 1 Contender for the World Heavyweight Championship, to be defended by King Booker at No Mercy on October 8 in Raleigh, NC. The crowd erupted into a frenzy as the ramifications of this match were almost immediately clear. Finlay has been instrumental to King Booker’s success, ever-ready with shillelagh in hand to take care of the King’s opponents. The Irishman was even knighted by King Booker just weeks ago along with Sir William Regal. But how could he hope to serve his King and defend himself in the No. 1 Contender Match? Both Sir William Regal and King Booker himself asked Finlay that very question in separate locker room area encounters, both of which ended in similar fashion. Each time he was asked what he would do in the event that he was to face King Booker for the World Heavyweight Championship at No Mercy, and each time he replied that he would simply do what he loves to do and what he does best: fight and win. Despite King Booker’s warning that the Court must not be divided and conquered, Finlay’s most unwavering loyalty proved to be to himself, as he was not afraid to turn his back on the King’s Court and walk away as his match was about to begin. King Booker was clearly now between a rock and a hard place. He would either face Bobby Lashley, who has proven to have The King’s number, or Finlay, who put to rest any questions of whether he would intentionally lose the Championship match in a show of loyalty to his King.

As the match began, King Booker was between a God and a hard case, as he joined JBL and Michael Cole at ringside for commentary. He revealed that he would accept an invitation from Paul Heyman to appear on ECW on Sci Fi. Why he was invited and, more importantly, why he would ever agree to attend are questions that we will have to wait until Tuesday to be resolved. However, the issue of the new No. 1 contender was resolved decisively by Bobby Lashley. At the end of a fiercely competed contest, Finlay’s Little Bastard tossed the shillelagh into the ring, allowing Finlay to land a cheap shot on Lashley. The ref caught the assault, though, and disqualified Finlay, making Lashley the No. 1 Contender for King Booker’s gold. Following the disqualification, Finlay received a shocking visit. The Irishman had declared that Batista was not in the building, but The Animal was present and pissed as ever, and he proved it by rushing to ringside and chasing Finlay out of the arena. King Booker then jumped into the ring and attacked Lashley, hoping to do to him what Finlay had done to Batista last week. His plan also backfired as he was victimized by a spear, leaving a triumphant Lashley looming large in the ring. As Lashley stood tall, the question had to be asked: Could we be looking at the new World Heavyweight Champion at No Mercy?

Crisis in the King’s Court was preceded by more crisis for Rey Mysterio, despite the fact that he appeared to have finally shaken the emotional burden of Chavo and Vickie Guerrero’s betrayal. Rey entered the arena alongside his son, Dominick, appearing rested and upbeat. Perhaps Dominick’s presence would be just what Rey needed to regain his composure. As Rey made his way to the ring to face United States Champion Mr. Kennedy, he indeed seemed excited as ever. Having left Dominick with the words, “Daddy’s gonna go tear the house down,” Rey was all smiles as he greeted his adoring SmackDown fans and clowned with members of the audience. Mysterio was finally looking like his old self until a disturbing image appeared unexpectedly on the TitanTron – Chavo and Vickie Guerrero had entered Rey’s private dressing room where Dominick was preparing to watch his father’s match. Suddenly, Rey’s apparent exuberance shifted drastically to apprehension and doubt. The smile we had waited so long for Rey to regain reverted just as quickly as it had come, back to the uneasy countenance of disbelief that WWE fans had seen Mysterio wear throughout the recent family crisis that has disrupted his life both in and out of the ring. Now distracted by the actions of the Guerrero business partnership, Rey fought bravely against Mr. Kennedy and even connected on the 6-1-9, but the result was much the same as last week when Rey’s emotions distracted him from delivering a peak performance. After fighting back against Mr. Kennedy’s onslaught, Rey nearly scored a pin fall when, without warning or explanation, Chavo and Vickie appeared with Dominick at the top of the stage. This distracted Rey just long enough for the ever-opportunistic Mr. Kennedy to score the cover and the victory. Just when it had looked as though Rey Mysterio was finally ready to move on with his life, his emotions were again overcome by chaos. Was Chavo and Vickie Guerrero’s interaction with Dominick simply another psychological ploy to distract and break the spirit of Rey Mysterio? We may not find out the answer, but Rey and Chavo will get a chance to settle the issue in the ring, as we learned that they will square off next week as SmackDown makes its long-awaited debut on the new CW network.

Speaking of mind games, Vito got one over on Sir William Regal in a big way. After threatening to sue Vito for sexual harassment in order to avoid fighting him last week, Regal agreed to drop those charges this week in order to redeem himself for losing to the toughest man in a dress two weeks ago. Both competitors fought like men, but it was an opportunistic Vito who picked up the victory, rolling Regal over and once again exposing him to his “ghastly undercarriage.” Following the defeat, Regal wore a truly priceless ghastly expression – just imagine walking in on Umaga and Mae Young getting freaky in the locker room and your face might mirror that of Sir Regal’s. After the match, Vito got some more good news as he interrupted a conversation between Long and King Booker. The King was disgusted by what he called an “unsightly maiden,” to which Vito replied, “I’m all man.” Always eager to capitalize on such altercations, Long announced that next week, on the season premiere of SmackDown on CW, Vito will go one on one with King Booker. An already shocked King Booker was further appalled when Vito celebrated the announcement by showing off his own jewels and scepter.

While King Booker called Vito a “freak,” SmackDown’s newest Superstar is quickly showing that his performance is anything but a freak coincidence. He may have been just another reality star, but after just three matches, The Miz is proving that he could become a true force in sports-entertainment. In his first two matches, The Miz has showed signs of skill, flashes of great athletic ability and even a bit of a mean streak. In his third match, he continued his impressive undefeated streak by defeating seasoned ring veteran Scotty 2 Hotty. The newcomer continued to look impressive and as passionate as any WWE Superstar, celebrating throughout the match and battling with Scotty before finishing the match with a swinging neck-breaker he has dubbed, “The Miz-ard of Oz.” Love him or hate him, The Miz is still undefeated, and he’s not going anywhere.

We also heard from Montel Vontavius Porter this week, as he appeared in a public service advertisement paid for by his “Worldwide Fan Base.” Last week, MVP sent a fax to WWE.com addressing the issue of his extended holdout. In his commercial on SmackDown, MVP followed up the fax by declaring that it was not him, but Long who was causing the problem. An irate MVP snapped, “Teddy Long, last week when you disrespected me, you almost made me lose my cool. What you need to do is bring the cheddar to make SmackDown more better. You need to bring MVP to SmackDown.”

The tag team division also continued to impress, although it was the champs Brian Kendrick and Paul London who once again walked away victorious. In an intriguing Triple Threat Match, Kendrick took on one member of each of his and London’s rival teams: Kid Kash of the Pitbulls and Idol Stevens, who was joined by partner KC James and Michelle McCool at ringside. Over the past few weeks, London and Kendrick have had every possible combination of their tag team rivals and have won every time. Things were no different on SmackDown as Kendrick emerged with the victory, offering further proof that his and London’s impressive run as Tag Team Champions is no fluke.

Another rivalry continued as Matt Hardy once again faced Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms. One week after screwing Hardy out of a victory over The Miz, Helms was up to more underhanded treachery, landing a low blow on Hardy to steal a win.

MATCHES:

- NON TITLE MATCH -
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms
defeated
Matt Hardy

Mike "The Miz" Mizanin defeated Scotty 2 Hotty

- TRIPLE THREAT MATCH -
WWE Tag Team Champion Brian Kendrick
defeated
Kid Kash and Idol Stevens

- NON TITLE MATCH -
United States Champion Mr. Kennedy
defeated
Rey Mysterio

Vito defeated Sir William Regal

Sylvester Terkay defeated Todd Smith

- NUMBER 1 CONTENDER`S MATCH -
Bobby Lashley defeated Sir Fit Finlay
via a disqualification

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SMACKDOWN # 371
9-22-06 Taped 9-18-06
Bell Center
Montreal, Quebec, Canada

From the opening fireworks to the phenomenal finale, the WWE fans at Montreal’s Bell Centre kept the atmosphere electric during a night full of action and surprises at the world premiere of SmackDown on the new CW Network. As the show began, SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long was greeted in his office by a perturbed King Booker and Queen Sharmell. The King insisted that Vito was not a worthy opponent, to which Long replied that King Booker was actually in luck. As it turned out, Long continued, Vito had willingly stepped aside from the potential Main Event in deference to King Booker’s new opponent: Undertaker. The benevolent King became infuriated as Long scampered away to oversee the SmackDown premiere. However, his anger would prove to be merely a cloak for the trepidation that would later be etched into his face as The Deadman made his legendary entrance through the darkness and fog in a rare SmackDown appearance. During the match, United States Champion Mr. Kennedy brought his trademark loud mouth to the announce table, where he provided guest commentary alongside JBL and Michael Cole. However, his arrogant swagger was uncharacteristically silenced when he witnessed the sheer power and intimidating force of The Phenom – a force he will have to combat when he faces Undertaker at No Mercy in just two weeks. As Undertaker attempted to nail King Booker with a Tombstone, The King managed to wriggle free and land a low blow, resulting in a disqualification. He then cracked The Deadman across the face with the World Heavyweight Championship and appeared ready to escape unscathed when, to the delight of the raucous crowd, Bobby Lashley grabbed King Booker (who he will challenge at No Mercy for the World Heavyweight Championship) and tossed him, like a peasant in the ancient kingdoms of old, back into the ring to meet the waiting lion face to face. A now horrified King Booker found himself on the wrong end of a Chokeslam and a Tombstone. Undertaker perched himself on his prey and pointed his gruesome, tongue-wagging mug towards his No Mercy opponent Mr. Kennedy, who was paralyzed with fear and, perhaps for the first time in his life, speechless. Will Mr. Kennedy be able to overcome the psychological trauma he suffered after witnessing The Deadman’s wrath up close for the first time?

No Mercy will also feature the aforementioned match-up of King Booker and Bobby Lashley, the powerhouse who has spent the last few weeks simply bulldozing the competition as if to remind The King just how serious he is about winning the World Heavyweight Championship. Lashley was in action on the premiere of SmackDown on CW, joining Batista in a tag team match against The King’s Royal Knights Extraordinaire, Sir William Regal and Finlay. SmackDown fans will remember that just two weeks ago, Batista was viciously assaulted by Finlay, who beat The Animal with his shillelagh and spilled his blood all over the mat. On Friday night, Batista turned the tables on the fighting Irishman, booting him into the crowd and stealing his shillelagh. The action outside the ring distracted Regal long enough for Lashley to connect with a spear and pin the Englishman for the victory. Lashley and The Animal put on a raw power display not seen from a tag team in WWE since the days of the Road Warriors, and as we count down the days until No Mercy, both of these men must be feared. King Booker would be wise to keep an eye out for Lashley, who is lurking just over his shoulder at every turn. Can anyone stop the No. 1 Contender? This match also reminded us that Batista clearly wants Finlay, and Finlay just as clearly wants nothing to do with Batista, as he showed by staying safely in the crowd while his partner was left to suffer in the ring. Later in the evening, we learned that the score will be settled at No Mercy when Batista and Finlay go toe-to-toe. The powerful tandem will also be back in action next week in an historic contest. Figuring that it was going to be a star-studded event, newly crowned WWE Champion John Cena decided to drop by the SmackDown premiere to personally thank Long for the contract offer. “I owe you one,” said Cena. “I almost had you,” the GM replied, before cashing in on Cena’s offer. As he thugged and bugged in excitement, Long announced that next week in Tulsa, OK, for the first time ever, the WWE Champion will face the World Heavyweight Champion on SmackDown. Joining Cena will be Lashley and Batista, while King Booker will be flanked by Finlay and Regal in what is sure to be an instant classic Six Man Tag Match. How will The King stack up against the man who will challenge him for the World Heavyweight Championship at No Mercy? What will Batista do to Finlay? With all of the drama and subplots, this one has “Match of the Year” written all over it.

Another rivalry that will be on display at No Mercy is the family feud between Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero, which finally tilted back towards Mysterio’s corner this week on the premiere of SmackDown on CW. Before his match against Chavo, Rey told the WWE fans at the Bell Centre that Chavo and Vickie Guerrero’s betrayal was the single most traumatizing event of his life. “When they betrayed me, it was as though they raped my soul. But one thing I’ve learned: No matter what happens, life goes on. So Chavo, Vickie, tonight is the first day of the rest of my life,” Rey declared with a stone-faced clarity and a desire in his eyes that WWE fans everywhere have missed for weeks. The match proved to be just as intense, as the two fought in the stands and on the concrete floor surrounding the ring. Referee Nick Patrick attempted to call off the match and two other referees tried to separate Rey and Chavo as the contest devolved from a match to an all-out dogfight. How much more intense can this rivalry get? Will both of these men walk out of No Mercy under their own power?

The Tag Team Champions were in action yet again, as it seems like every week London & Kendrick have a new obstacle to overcome in. This week, that challenge came in the form of a Triple Threat Match against the Pitbulls and KC James & Idol Stevens for the Tag Team Championship, and once again the daredevil duo came out victorious. It was a wild match that featured plenty of high-flying moves and displays of agility, but London & Kendrick showed the resourcefulness that has characterized their run as Tag Team Champions. Each week they seem to get a little bit better and prove that they belong in the elite realm of WWE Champions.

The Miz also continued to impress as he showcased his intensity and ever-improving ability in a victory over Funaki. The former reality TV star is now a perfect 4-0 since his debut last month.

Matt Hardy and Gregory Helms continued to battle in what has become an intensely personal rivalry. The two came up through the ranks together as teenage friends in North Carolina. After exchanging wins in recent weeks, Hardy stole a victory with a low blow, just as Helms did last week. It’s all fair game in this rivalry.

We also heard from Jimmy Wang Yang, who promised to make his debut next week in Tulsa, OK.

Finally, no visit to Quebec – an island of tranquility in a truculent world – would be complete without an appearance by the Ambassador at large. Sylvan was greeted by his hometown faithful with a raucous standing ovation, who went simply insane as the Canadian Superstar greeted the arena in French. As the World Cup style chants intensified to a deafening roar, Sylvan grabbed himself a handful of ropes and pinned Tatanka for the victory, adding yet another chapter to Tatanka’s run of bad luck and questionable calls.

MATCHES:

Bobby Lashley and Batista defeated Sir Fit Finlay and Sir William Regal

- NON TITLE MATCH -
Matt Hardy defeated Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms

The Miz defeated Funaki

Rey Mysterio vs Chavo Guerrero
ended in a no contest

" TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP "
- TRIPLE THREAT MATCH -
WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick
defeated
"The Pitbulls" Kid Kash & Jamie Noble and K.C. James & Idol Stevens

Sylvan defeated Tatanka

The Undertaker defeated King Booker

---

SMACKDOWN # 372
9-29-06 Taped 9-26-06
Tulsa Convention Center
Tulsa, Oklahoma

King Booker may hail himself as a benevolent ruler, but when he and his court deplorably attacked WWE Champion John Cena Monday night on RAW, the King of SmackDown revealed his sadistic side. He wasn’t laughing long, though, as The Champ struck back on Friday night, daring The King and his Court to defend the SmackDown Kingdom. Yet despite the fact that a historic WWE battle was being waged before the spirited WWE fans in Tulsa, Okla., a surprise ambush would provide arguably the most shocking moment of all. Also, with Oct. 8 fast approaching, No Mercy continued to take shape, and we learned that King Booker and Bobby Lashley will attempt to make each other’s lives miserable next week without even squaring off in the ring together. In just its second week on the CW, SmackDown made it clear why last week’s season premiere was the second-highest rated show among adults on Friday nights. The fireworks will surely be ablaze next week on the final SmackDown before No Mercy, but the action this week was equally explosive.

Cena opened up the show as promised, relishing the sensation of returning to SmackDown, where he made his first splash in WWE. Sporting a heavily bandaged left arm as a result of the brutal ambush he endured on Monday Night RAW, when Finlay and Sir William Regal forced him to kiss King Booker’s feet. His right arm had been tied behind his back as part of a stipulation for his match against Lita, leaving Cena defenseless and his left arm isolated for a vicious beating. On SmackDown, Cena declared it was now his turn to bring along some backup. “Tonight, the odds are even,” the WWE Champion proclaimed, “because in my corner tonight will be Bobby Lashley. In my corner tonight, I go to war with Batista. Tonight from The Champ there will be no kissing feet because tonight on SmackDown, we will simply kick [King Booker’s] ass.” No one could blame Cena for his ornery mood following Monday night’s attack, but the sight of his bandaged left arm was a stark reminder of his condition, and begged the question, would he be physically disadvantaged during the historic main event? Cena put the issue to rest by taking the fight to King Booker and his Court, interrupting the Royal processional along with his partners, Batista and Lashley. As the action finally made its way to the ring, the SmackDown fans (and even commentator Michael Cole) were brought to their feet by the raw strength of perhaps the most powerful team ever assembled in WWE history. However, Cole and the fans would soon witness a familiar sight, as Finlay’s Little Bastard handed him the shillelagh from under the ring. Soon the King’s Royal Knights Extraordinaire were isolating the beaten arm of Cena, and it was clear that even if he escaped SmackDown victorious, he would be at less than 100 percent strength for his Steel Cage Match against Edge for the WWE Championship on RAW Monday. Once Cena was finally able to escape the clutches of Finlay and Regal, his powerhouse partners went to work, culminating with a crushing spear from Lashley into the heart of King Booker for the pin. After plowing his way through The King’s Court in recent weeks, Lashley fittingly pinned King Booker, making it clear that with just nine days until No Mercy he is focused and coming for the World Heavyweight Championship. Will a charging Bobby Lashley be the last thing King Booker sees as Champion? Will there be a new King of SmackDown after No Mercy? Speaking of potential new champions, Cena’s victory celebration was cut short when, as if out of the shadows, Edge appeared and speared the WWE Champion. The message was clear: Prepare to say goodbye to the WWE Championship in the Steel Cage on RAW. Cena honorably made good on his promise to SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long, but between the beating he took on Monday night and the attack by Edge on SmackDown, will Cena be physically ready to survive the 15-foot steel structure? Will it be the end of a brief championship reign Monday night in Topeka, Kan.? As long as we’re looking ahead, the fireworks will continue on the CW network as next week in Wichita, Kan., WWE fans will witness the first ever SmackDown Pick Your Poison. World Heavyweight Champion King Booker will choose Bobby Lashley’s opponent, while the No. 1 Contender will decide who The King will meet. The only place to find out the match-ups is WWE.com, where Long will reveal King Booker’s and Lashley’s opponents on Saturday.

As No Mercy approaches, the SmackDown Superstars were busy preparing and sending messages. Mr. Kennedy had his own message for the SmackDown fans as he offered what he called a “tribute” to Undertaker, his opponent at the Oct. 8 pay-per-view. Kennedy declared that Undertaker has nothing left to prove, and that it would therefore be rude of him to “intrude upon his legacy” and “put a black mark on his career” by defeating The Deadman at No Mercy. Kennedy then shocked the audience by announcing that, out of reverence, he could not wrestle Undertaker at No Mercy. As the incensed crowd reacted in shock to the announcement, The Phenom made his way to the ring. With Kennedy still clinging to the microphone in fear, Undertaker wrapped a paw around Kennedy’s hand and brought the mic to his lips to remind his opponent, “I show no mercy, and you will rest in peace.” As Kennedy then reared back to strike The Deadman with his trusty microphone, Undertaker had more supernatural tricks in store as the microphone literally exploded in Kennedy’s hand. Will the terror-struck young Superstar have any answer for the legendary Undertaker?

Rey Mysterio was back in action, looking fresh and revived for his match against Sylvester Terkay. While Chavo and Vickie Guerrero watched backstage, Terkay sized up Mysterio, looking as though he was wondering where the rest of Rey was. Unimpressed, Terkay stepped aside and offered the match to his manager, Elijah Burke. During the match, Terkay attempted to trip Rey, but ended up getting kicked in the face before Burke came face to face with the 6-1-9 and lost the match. Terkay continued his bullying ways after the match ended, ambushing Rey from behind. After Rey had appeared to overcome weeks of mind games from Chavo and Vickie, the Guerrero business partnership must have been delighted to see the post-match beating Rey suffered. Any extra damage inflicted on either Rey or Chavo will surely influence the outcome of their No Mercy match-up, which will be fought under the stipulation of Falls Count Anywhere.

Later in the night, Chavo was dealing out some damage of his own against Matt Hardy. Hardy will face Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms at No Mercy, where the two will return to their native North Carolina to settle a personal score that has been played out over the last few weeks on SmackDown. Helms made his way through the crowd to ringside and was quickly dispatched by Hardy, but as Hardy attempted to set up the Twist of Fate, Vickie Guerrero landed a low blow, turning the tide for Chavo to connect on a frog splash and pick up the victory. For the first time since forging their business partnership, Vickie physically assisted Chavo during a match, establishing herself as a potential difference-maker in Chavo’s future matches. Will Vickie make her impact felt at No Mercy when Chavo faces Rey Mysterio? Hardy certainly felt an impact when Helms attacked him after the match, sending his pre-No Mercy message as well. Who will come out on top in the battle of old friends and training mates?

The Tag Team Champions Brian Kendrick and Paul London weren’t in action, but they were definitely watching intently as KC James & Idol Stevens grappled with the Pitbulls to decide who would meet the champions at No Mercy, where the gold will be on the line. Thanks to Michelle McCool, James & Stevens were able to steal a victory, but it will be difficult to pry the championship away from London & Kendrick, who have brilliantly fought their way through every possible tag team challenge since winning the gold at Judgment Day. Can James & Stevens finally end the reign of what has become one of the most exciting young combinations in WWE?

The southern mainstay of Tulsa was the perfect venue for the debut of SmackDown’s newest resident redneck, Jimmy Wang Yang, who saluted his fans with some country line dance moves and a rebel “Yee-Haw!” Yang battled tenaciously against Sylvan and showed WWE fans what they have to look forward to, displaying loads of talent and ability. Unfortunately, his coming out party was spoiled by the opportunistic Sylvan, who used the ropes as leverage to steal a victory.

Montel Vontavious Porter – or, as he prefers to be known, MVP – will finally make his at No Mercy. As announced on WWE.com earlier this week, MVP ended his holdout and signed a contract with SmackDown. On Oct. 8 in Raleigh, N.C., it’s put up or shut up time for the outspoken free agent signee.

Finally, The Miz was back and louder than ever, trumpeting his unblemished record and generally everything about himself. In his match against Tatanka, he made good on his guarantee of victory, improving his still-undefeated record to 5-0.

MATCHES:

Rey Mysterio defeated Elijah Burke

K.C. James & Idol Stevens
defeated
"The Pitbulls" Jamie Noble & Kid Kash

Chavo Guerrero defeated Matt Hardy

Mike "The Miz" Mizanin defeated Tatanka

Sylvan defeated Jimmy Wang Yang

WWE Champion John Cena, Bobby Lashley and Dave Batista
defeated
World Heavyweight Champion King Booker, Sir Fit Finlay and Sir William Regal

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SMACKDOWN # 373
10-6-06 Taped 10-3-06
Kansas Coliseum
Wichita, Kansas

The World Heavyweight Champion and the No. 1 Contender picked each other`s poison, but by the end of the night, they and their opponents were victimized by their own venom. The quest for SmackDown`s Holy Grail seems to have finally reached its boiling point, and four of the Kingdom`s most fearsome warriors were involved in a night of surprises, betrayals and shocking announcements, one of which offered an unprecedented shake-up of the Championship chase just days before King Booker puts his gold on the line at No Mercy. SmackDown opened with King Booker and Bobby Lashley each announcing who they had chosen for each other in the night`s "Pick Your Poison" format. As reported on WWE.com last week, it would be King Booker against his Royal Knight Extraordinaire, Finlay and Lashley versus his friend, Batista. Looking to maintain a sense of order in his Royal Court, King Booker reached out to his Irish ally, asking him to "Be a good Knight and lie down." Finlay has proven time and time again that he never lies down for anyone, and he turned The King`s request back on fellow Knight Sir William Regal. "What would you do?" he snarled. "Would you lie down for The King?" As Regal attempted to answer, he became flustered and quickly left. Finlay would soon do the same, but not before reminding King Booker of whom he is, and what he loves to do. Judging by the disconcerted look on The King`s face, he knew that hope was grim before he even asked the question. Finlay`s curt response and abrupt exit merely reasserted that The King was in for a heap of trouble. When it finally came time for the two to square off, Finlay`s Little Bastard once again entered the fray and tilted the tide in the Irishman`s favor. He crept out from under the apron and chased Queen Sharmell around the ring with a mouse. The sight of the terrified Queen distracted both King Booker and the referee, and with the two of them distracted, Finlay was able to grab his trusty shillelagh and crack The King in the back of the knee. Finlay picked up the victory, and The King was perfectly snake-bitten by Lashley`s poison. Has Finlay`s loyalty to King Booker officially run its course? The No. 1 Contender must have enjoyed the result of King Booker`s match, but he couldn`t smile for long as he was slated to take on Batista. As two of the most powerful men on SmackDown went blow for blow, Finlay stormed into the ring and attacked Batista, looking to deliver a message to the man he will face in just two days at No Mercy. Not more than a second later, King Booker came flying in as well. However, instead of attacking Lashley - a man The King would like to see weakened, given the dominance Lashley has shown over him in recent weeks - The King of SmackDown came out swinging for Finlay, undoubtedly still steamed over being pinned. Before long it was a free-for-all that required the assistance of SmackDown`s entire referee crew to break up. It was then when SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long finally appeared, ready to restore order to his show and offer a simply unimaginable announcement. "It seems to me that all four of y`all want to go at it real bad. So this Sunday at No Mercy, we`re gonna have ourselves a World Championship Match, but it will not be a one-on-one match. It will be a Fatal Four Way Match!" As the crowd roared in appreciation, the four men in the ring absorbed the monumental announcement. Never before in SmackDown history has the main event of a pay-per-view been changed with only days to go before the event was set to take place. Now, just two days before No Mercy, two new contenders learned they will have a chance to walk out of Raleigh, NC as World Heavyweight Champion. Plus, with the Fatal Four Way format, now King Booker won`t even have to be involved in the decision to lose the title. Imagine Finlay`s excitement when he realized that if he can find a way to pin Batista or Lashley (as he has managed to do before very recently), he can steal The King`s gold without laying a hand on him. In fact, it was such a scenario that cost Finlay his U.S. Championship in a Triple Threat Match. Batista`s smile reflected his relief and excitement to finally be back in the position to reclaim the championship he held before a triceps injury forced him out of action for months. The King, meanwhile, looked as though he had just been punched in the gut. As if it were not bad enough for him to have to face a genetic powerhouse in Bobby Lashley, now he will have to face the one man on SmackDown who may be more destructive and physically imposing than Lashley, and the one member of his Court who has shown that he has no allegiances to anyone but himself. Is King Booker`s reign all but over? As if all of this chaos wasn`t enough, the SmackDown fans in Wichita, KS got yet another treat from Long. As all four of the No Mercy main event competitors crowded the GM`s office, Long declared that they would have to coexist for one more night, as SmackDown`s main event would be a tag team match pitting King Booker and Finlay against Lashley and Batista. The King was left to shout that he could not possibly trust any of his three competitors, and with just two days between this match and their Fatal Four Way at No Mercy, who could expect any of them to trust each other? How would they possibly coexist in a tag team scenario less than an hour after the momentous announcement? As it turned out, they wouldn`t have to cooperate for long. There was clear dissention between King Booker and Finlay, as neither man appeared interested in tagging in for the other. After a spear by Lashley to King Booker, The King`s last loyal Knight, Sir William Regal, interrupted the match, resulting in a no contest. However, Batista took the opportunity to assert himself before No Mercy, delivering a string of spine-busters to King Booker, Regal, Lashley and - after a low blow from Finlay`s Little Bastard - Finlay. Prior to SmackDown, Batista didn`t even have a championship opportunity in sight. However, following Friday night`s incredible events, could The Animal be the favorite to walk out of No Mercy the World Heavyweight Champion? Why did Regal enter the fray - has The King`s Court crumbled? How must Bobby Lashley be feeling after that spine-buster from his friend, Batista? How will Little Bastard impact the match at No Mercy? What about Queen Sharmell? The decision may have come abruptly and unexpectedly, but WWE fans everywhere should be simply delighted by the boundless array of possibilities for No Mercy.

Of course, No Mercy already had WWE fans salivating for plenty of other reasons, and the audience in Wichita got a taste of things to come with only two days until the pay-per-view. In a battle of No Mercy foes, Rey Mysterio and Matt Hardy teamed up to take on Chavo Guerrero and Gregory Helms. In the weeks since being betrayed by Chavo and Vickie Guerrero, Rey Mysterio has turned heartbreak into anger, and he will be looking to put his rivalry with Chavo to rest after he faces his former friend in a Falls Count Anywhere Match at No Mercy. As for Hardy and Helms, this personal rivalry will head back to where things began for both of them. As kids, they competed in everything they could in order to declare, "Anything you can do, I can do better." Now, under the brightest lights in sports-entertainment, the childhood friends will put personal pride and bragging rights on the line. In the match, Hardy delivered the Twist of Fate to Helms, followed by Rey Dropping the Dime for the pin. If Hardy can connect again on Sunday, hometown bragging rights will surely be his. As for Rey, the pin can only help his momentum heading into No Mercy, even though Chavo was pulled out of harms way by Vickie, who has shown in the last two weeks that she has the ringside savvy to pay huge dividends as a business partner.

The other can`t-miss match at No Mercy will be Mr. Kennedy`s contest with the legendary Undertaker, who last week spooked Mr. Kennedy as the outspoken Superstar attempted to bow out of the contest. This week, Mr. Kennedy had a new message for The Deadman. "On Sunday, you will find out that the decade and a half of destruction is over. The future has arrived, the future is here and the future is Mr. Kennedy," said a seemingly refocused and deadly serious Mr. Kennedy. The man from Green Bay vowed to pin The Phenom at No Mercy, but is the future more grim than he hopes?

MVP would like the world to think that he, too, is a phenom, and he delivered that message in his first public appearance since signing on as a member of the SmackDown roster. In his statement, he boasted, "MVP is the greatest athlete in history, and history will be made this Sunday at No Mercy. Nobody is ready for the debut of MVP." A lofty statement from a man who has yet to step into a WWE ring, especially considering nobody has any idea who he will face in his match. Who will it be, and will MVP deliver on his bold prediction?

There are only two days remaining until what has evolved into one of the most eagerly anticipated and potentially thrilling pay-per-view events in recent memory. The SmackDown Superstars have made their final statements - now there`s nothing left to do but wait and prepare. Be sure you`re ready to catch all the action and watch No Mercy, live at 8/7 CT on Sunday, only on pay-per-view.

MATCHES:

Matt Hardy & Rey Mysterio
defeated
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms and Chavo Guerrero

Elijah Burke defeated Tatanka

- PICK YOUR POISON MATCH -
Sir Fit Finlay defeated World Heavyweight Champion King Booker

- PICK YOUR POISON MATCH -
Dave Batista vs Bobby Lashley
ended in a No Contest

Sylvan defeated Jimmy Wang Yang

Michelle McCool defeated Ashley Masaro

Dave Batista & Bobby Lashley
vs
Sir Fit Finlay & King Booker
ended in a No Contest

---

SMACKDOWN # 374
10-13-06 Taped 10-10-06
Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena
Jacksonville, Florida

It was an eventful night on a jam-packed edition of SmackDown from Jacksonville, Florida. Chris Benoit made a splash in his SmackDown return, Kane shocked fans and scared MVP in his SmackDown debut, Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero agreed on an “I Quit” Match for next week’s show, and Batista won a Triple Threat Match for the right to challenge King Booker for his World Heavyweight Championship next week in Los Angeles.

Much to King Booker’s bewilderment, General Manager Theodore Long ordered a Triple Threat Main Event on SmackDown for the right to face King Booker for the World Heavyweight Championship on next week’s show. The competitors involved were the three men who faced King Booker at No Mercy; Batista, Lashley and Finlay. Moments before the battle began, SmackDown announcers Michael Cole and JBL were joined by none other than King Booker himself on commentary for the pivotal match. In the opening seconds of the contest, Batista and Lashley took advantage of their friendship to neutralize the angry Irishman. With Finlay out of the equation, the friendship was thrown out the window as Batista and Lashley locked it up in a battle of true powerhouses. A variety of high impact maneuvers left both Batista and Lashley laid out on the mat, allowing Finlay to follow in the footsteps of King Booker at No Mercy, and pick up the scraps. Unfortunately for the angry fighter, Lashley and Batista weren’t ready to be pinned just yet. After a few unsuccessful attempts at a pin, Lashley turned the tide and scooped up Finlay for a devastating power slam. The former U.S. Champion went for the pin, but as the ref’s hand was inches from the mat, Little Bastard jumped into the ring and disrupted the count. With the match in flux, Batista seized control, laying out both opponents before leaving the ring to head to the announce table. After staring down the seated World Heavyweight Champion, Batista proceeded to take apart the table, apparently preparing it in hopes of driving one of his opponents through it. Unfortunately for the Animal, the move backfired as Lashley and Finlay teamed up to choke slam Batista to his apparent demise. With Batista seemingly down and out, Finlay and Lashley resumed their lengthy rivalry in the ring. After a series of blows, Finlay got the upper hand and dropped Lashley on his head with the Celtic Cross. The former U.S. Champion went for the pin, but Batista resurrected himself from the dead and broke up the count. From there, the match belonged to Batista. With Lashley incapacitated from the Celtic Cross, Batista finished off the Irishman with the Batista Bomb and recorded the pin to be come the No. 1 Contender to King Booker’s crown. As SmackDown went off the air, Michael Cole delivered a blockbuster, informing King Booker that next week during the Championship match, Cyber Sunday main eventers John Cena and Big Show will be seated at ringside to view the proceedings. What will happen next week when Batista gets another opportunity to capture the gold that he so badly craves?

One of the biggest stories coming into this week’s show was the SmackDown in-ring debut of Montel Vontavious Porter. At No Mercy, MVP made his WWE in-ring debut, taking on a less than formidable opponent in the unknown Marty Garner. This week, MVP begged Teddy Long for some “competition”. As the old saying goes, “be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it.” MVP’s “competition” came in the form of the debuting Kane, who earlier this week lost a Loser Leaves RAW match to Umaga thanks to interference from Armando Alejandro Estrada. Still fuming from the events of Monday night, Kane took out his aggression on the cocky SmackDown newcomer. Minutes into the one-sided affair, MVP bailed, leaving the ring and making a b-line to the locker room. Who is next on Kane’s list?

Sunday’s No Mercy was a monumental night in SmackDown history, in-part due to the successful return of fan-favorite Chris Benoit. On Friday night, Benoit added some hardware to his collection in the form of the United States Championship when he defeated Mr. Kennedy. The match was made when Mr. Kennedy came out to brag about his shaky “victory” over the Undertaker at No Mercy. The loudmouth Superstar made a challenge to Theodore Long. “I’ll put my title on the line against a man Teddy Long claims I’ve never beaten,” said Kennedy. “But if I win, I get to leave and go to RAW.” Long agreed, and seconds later, Benoit emerged from the locker room. A shocked Kennedy looked on as the rabid wolverine stormed the ring. Benoit took it right to the United States champ, showing the aggression that has made him the decorated performer and fan-favorite that he is today. Kennedy was game for the challenge, and even looked to have the upper-hand at one point in the match before the tide was turned for good. As Kennedy was in control, Undertaker’s gong played over the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, temporarily distracting the surprised champion. That distraction opened the door for the wolverine to go to work and finish off a flustered Kennedy. Benoit used a series of german suplexes and then the signature Crippler Crossface to seal the deal and become the new United States Champion.

At RAW`s Family Reunion, Rey Mysterio capped an incredible week by defeating Chavo Guerrero Jr. for the second consecutive night. On Friday, Mysterio attempted to move on, taking on and defeating a game Jamie Noble in one-on-one action. After the match, he was again confronted by Chavo Guerrero and Vickie Guerrero, who made a shocking challenge. “You must be proud,” said Chavo. “You must be proud of driving me to the lowest point in my career. As long as the two of us are on SmackDown this will never end. So Rey, I challenge you to an “I Quit” Match next week on SmackDown.” Rey hesitated before reminding Chavo, “I’ve beaten you twice in a row, do you really want to get beat again?” An irritated Vickie Guerrero grabbed the microphone and re-issued the challenge. “The difference between my Eddie and you Rey is that Eddie had balls.” A fired up Rey responded to the challenge. “I’m going to prove to both of you what Rey Mysterio is all about. You want an I Quit Match? I’ll tell you what, the words “I Quit” are going to come out of your mouth Chavo.”

Vito and William Regal continued their increasingly heated rivalry. At No Mercy, William Regal’s inauspicious night was due in part to a series of run-in’s with Vito, which led to his impromptu beating at the hands of Chris Benoit. On Friday night, William Regal took out his frustrations on the dress-wearing tough guy, but couldn’t close the deal. After taking a series of punishing crossface forearms, Vito was able to record a pin with a “revealing” sunset flip on Regal, getting the 1-2-3 to stay undefeated since donning the dress.

Jimmy Wang Yang recorded his first SmackDown win when he teamed with Tag Team Champions Paul London and Brian Kendrick to defeat Idol Stevens, K.C. James and Sylvan.

MATCHES:

" U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP"
Chris Benoit
defeated
United States Champion Mr. Kennedy
winning the U.S. Championship

Vito defeated Sir William Regal

M.V.P. vs Kane
ended in a no contest

Rey Mysterio defeated Jamie Noble

Jimmy Wang Yang, Paul London & Brian Kendrick
defeated
Sylvan, Idol Stevens & K.C. James

- TRIPLE THREAT NUMBER 1 CONTENDER`S MATCH -
Dave Batista
defeated
Bobby Lashley and Sir Fit Finlay

---

SMACKDOWN # 375
Air date: 10-20-06 Taped: 10-15-06
Staples Center
Los Angeles, California

On a star-studded SmackDown taped from Los Angeles on Sunday 10-15-06, King Booker survived his match with Batista with the World Heavyweight Championship in hand thanks to help from ECW’s Big Show. Also, Rey Mysterio was beaten so badly that he was forced to say the words “I Quit”, Gregory Helms slept tight thanks to an impromptu meeting with the Undertaker, and the Carter brothers made SmackDown their home for a night.

As a result of his victory in last week’s main event, Batista was awarded another shot at King Booker’s World Heavyweight Championship. At one point, Finlay, who is no longer a member of the King’s court came down and interfered on King Booker’s behalf. The fighting Irishman proved that while his loyalties no longer lie with the court, his distaste for the Animal is as strong as ever. RAW’s WWE Champion John Cena and ECW’s World Champion Big Show were seated ringside, and it was only a matter of time until they got involved. With King Booker reeling on the arena floor, Batista unleashed a devastating spear that sent SmackDown’s ruler soaring towards and through the seated ECW champ. Batista threw the King back into the ring and prepared to finish him off. A furious Big Show recovered from the impact of the spear, entered the ring and assaulted the Animal, causing a DQ, and setting off a wild brawl which involved RAW’s Cena. After the match, SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long came down to the ring and laid the groundwork for a match on next week’s show.

The other huge story coming out of this week’s SmackDown was the brutal beating and defeat of Rey Mysterio in an “I Quit Match” by Chavo Guerrero. The lengthy, personal and bitter rivalry was taken to extremes on Friday when Chavo Guerrero won the match, and may have ended Rey Mysterio’s career in the process. Chavo hung Rey by his feet from the steel that supports the SmackDown set, and repeatedly battered Mysterio’s exposed knee until he could take no more and was forced to utter the words, “I quit.” An injured and demoralized Mysterio was unable to walk after the match and had to be rushed from the scene on a stretcher. Will Rey Mysterio ever be the same after Chavo’s despicable actions?

For the second straight week, Montel Vontavious Porter chickened out of a fight with Kane. Once again, Kane battered the cocky newcomer from pillar to post, only to have Porter take the easy way out. The former highly-touted free-agent resorted hitting Kane below the belt to force a DQ, thus sparing him further punishment. After all the attention surrounding his signing, Porter has still yet to live up to the hype.

One Superstar who didn’t chicken out this week on SmackDown, but maybe should have was Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms. Backstage, Helms was overheard telling Matt Hardy that he could beat anyone on the SmackDown roster. Theodore Long was once again on the scene, and confronted Helms on his word, placing him in a match with Undertaker. Despite Mr. Kennedy’s interference, Undertaker made quick work of the Cruiserweight Champion. The Deadman finished off Helms with a Tombstone, and then proceeded to continue with his devastation of the loudmouth Mr. Kennedy.

The celebrities were out in full force on SmackDown. The stars of VH1’s “House of Carters”, Nick and Aaron Carter were the Miz’ special guest judges for the Diva Dance-Off. Both of the young singing sensations were involved in the contest, each getting a special taste of sexy Divas that SmackDown viewers witness every Friday night. In the end, Miz declared Kristal the winner, but the Carters disagreed, awarding the win to Leyla. The end result was a wild catfight with all of the participating Divas involved.

Tired of being SmackDown’s doormat, William Regal introduced his friend Dave Taylor, who he claims will help prevent any further humiliation of the talented Superstar. In their first week as a tag-team, Regal and Taylor made quick work of Funaki and Scotty 2 Hotty.

Vito had his recent undefeated streak snapped at the hands of Elijah Burke. Since donning the dress several months, Vito has run roughshod all over the SmackDown roster, but on Friday night, a big boot from Sylvester Terkay provided the assist in helping Burke to gain the huge victory.

MATCHES:

"The Big Red Machine" Kane
defeated
"M.V.P." Montel Vontavious Porter
via a disqualification

Elijah Burke defeated Vito

Sir William Regal & Squire David Taylor
defeated
"Smackdown`s Number One Announcer" Funaki & Scotty 2 Hotty

- I QUIT MATCH -
Chavo Guerrero defeated Rey Mysterio

The Undertaker
defeated
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms
in a non-title match

- DIVA DANCE OFF -
Layla defeated
Kristal, Jillian Hall, Michelle McCool and Ashley Masaro

" WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP "
Dave Batista defeated King Booker
via a disqualification

---

SMACKDOWN # 376
Air date: 10-27-06 Taped: 10-24-06
Scottrade Center
St. Louis, Missouri

Coming off of the highest rated edition of SmackDown ever on the CW network, the Superstars of SmackDown looked to continue the strong ratings run with another action packed Friday night.

The highly anticipated tag team main event was not a let down to SmackDown fans, although it was a huge disappointment to World Heavyweight Champion King Booker. The dismayed champion could only watch as he was abandoned by the ECW World Champion Big Show. This left the King alone against WWE Champion John Cena and The Animal, Batista. After a devastating Batista Bomb, The Animal pinned King Booker in the center of the ring. King Booker may still have the World Heavyweight Championship after SmackDown, but with Cyber Sunday in nine days and Batista over his shoulder, could time be closing in on his championship? WWE fans have the power to vote which title should be on the line come Cyber Sunday.

Montel Vontavious Porter decided to use his contract’s sick clause, dodging out of the scheduled No Disqualification match with Kane; one of the three men SmackDown fans can vote for to challenge Umaga at Cyber Sunday. General Manager Theodore Long was left with a decision to make, one made easier by the arrogant and talented Mr. Kennedy. When Kennedy demanded to face Undertaker, he was given the Big Red Machine instead. Kennedy did not back down, and defeated yet another former champion, this time with help from the “ill” M.V.P. This prompted Long to announce a monumental tag team match for next week on SmackDown, when M.V.P. and Mr. Kennedy will team together to face Undertaker and Kane, who join forces for the first time in five years. Will M.V.P. and Mr. Kennedy be able to handle the powerful Brothers of Destruction?

Chavo and Vickie Guerrero came to St. Louis after Chavo’s brutal victory over Rey Mysterio in last week’s “I Quit” match. Chavo not only defeated Rey, but punished him to the point that Mysterio will need surgery on his knee. After avoiding Chris Benoit early in the night, Vickie accompanied Chavo to the ring with one thing in mind, closure.  As he stood with Vickie, Chavo told SmackDown fans that they “finally have peace in [our] lives” and that “Rey had mocked the Guerrero legacy”. Chavo then replayed the vicious attack on Rey repeatedly until the United States Champion Benoit came out to get some answers. Chavo and Vickie would not bite and left the ring without uttering a word. Will Benoit get his questions answered?

William Regal and Dave Taylor picked up the victory over Tatanka and Lashley, but both teams paid a price for the match. Dave Taylor will be out three to four months to repair a torn meniscus. Can Regal continue his recent successes?

Tatanka and Lashley entered SmackDown for the first time as a team. Tatanka believes that he has been the victim of many bad calls by SmackDown referees in recent weeks, and his reported bad luck continued. After another referee mishap, Tatanka had finally reached the boiling point. He then took his frustrations out by punching the referee. Lashley intervened, trying to calm his partner down, only to have Tatanka turn and assault Lashley. What led Tatanka to attack his own partner?

Gregory Helms and Matt Hardy, childhood friends, continued their personal rivalry. Helms held the upper hand this time around, using the ropes to cheat his way to victory. Hardy got the best of Helms at No Mercy a few weeks ago, and on this night, Helms got even. How far will these two former friends take this rivalry?

The Diva Battle Royal was a treat for all WWE fans, and Miz helped trick Kristal into victory, payback to Layla for her birthday gift to Miz. As Miz and Kristal celebrated, the spirit of Halloween rose four days early, and the returning Boogeyman turned celebration into fear. Miz tucked tail and ran, but not before throwing his friend to Boogeyman. After regurgitating worms on Kristal, what will Boogeyman do next now that he has returned to SmackDown?

MATCHES:

William Regal & Dave Taylor
defeated
Bobby Lashley & Tatanka

Gregory Helms defeated Matt Hardy

- NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH -
Mr. Kennedy defeated Kane

- TRICK OR TREAT DIVA BATTLE ROYAL -
Kristal Marshal
defeated
Jillian Hall, Michelle McCool, Ashley Masaro & Layla

John Cena & Dave Batista
defeated
King Booker & The Big Show

---

SMACKDOWN # 377
Air date: 11-3-06 Taped: 10-29-06
Bradley Center
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

With two days until Cyber Sunday, the last stop before the interactive WWE pay- per- view was SmackDown from Milwaukee. World Heavyweight Champion King Booker, scheduled to take part in the Champion of Champions match, was given the night off from competition, and protection for the night. Rumors had been swirling all week on WWE.com that RAW Superstars and ECW Extremists were gunning to take out King Booker before Cyber Sunday, and General Manager Theodore Long aimed to keep the champion safe, and the title securely on SmackDown. Batista was enlisted to protect his rival, and the Animal delivered, knowing that if the title leaves SmackDown, so does his opportunity at the World Championship. The reported rumors were true and RAW’s Cade & Murdoch and ECW’s Mike Knox & Rene Dupree attacked, but were fought off by Batista. The Animal, having just aided King Booker, returned to the arena with his adrenaline pumping, and called out Finlay; a monstrous brawl ensued, and the two men had to be separated by security. Next week on SmackDown, the hatred between these two men will be settled in the ring.

Also reported on WWE.com this week, sources close to Rey Mysterio claimed he would come to SmackDown to announce his retirement. Rey Mysterio came to SmackDown, but not to retire. He talked about next week’s scheduled knee surgery and the reasons he uttered “I quit.” After a heartfelt speech where Mysterio told SmackDown fans that “I quit with the hopes of fighting again” and “we together are going to climb that mountain again;” Chavo and Vickie Guerrero made their way out to confront Rey. They continued to taunt him, and Mysterio was left to defend himself. After hearing enough, Rey swung his crutch, only to have Chavo viciously attack his knee with the same chair Guerrero used two weeks ago to injure him. Chris Benoit, who has been in search of answers from the Guerreros, came down to chase off Chavo and Vickie to help his friend Rey. Will Benoit ever get his questions answered by the Guerreros?

General Manager Theodore Long continued his fan friendly approach when he reunited Kane and Undertaker for the first time in five years against the team of Montel Vontavious Porter and Mr. Kennedy, who had no desire to face the Brothers of Destruction. M.V.P. and Kennedy did all they could to avoid the confrontation, purposely getting counted out to lose the match. After Theodore Long restarted the match with no countouts, the talented yet young team of M.V.P and Kennedy were disqualified. Theodore Long returned to the arena and told the fans there would be a winner in the match, and he ordered a No Disqualification stipulation. Seizing the opportunity, Kane and Undertaker, who seemed to be playing the old game “can you top this”, finished off M.V.P. and Mr. Kennedy and left the arena together.

Gregory Helms defeated Jimmy Wang Yang. SmackDown’s resident Redneck, Yang has a new companion in 2006 Diva search finalist Amy. Yang had the match won, but Sylvan helped Cruiserweight champion Helms retain his title. After the match, Sylvan & Helms beat on Yang until Matt Hardy came to Yang’s aid. Helms and Hardy continue to find themselves in each others way, and Sylvan once again became involved in Yang’s affairs.

The Miz & Kristal stole a victory from Vito & Layla, but their post match celebration was cut short by the Boogeyman. Miz ran away, his undefeated streak intact, and Kristal was sacrificed once again to the Boogeyman, receiving a mouthful of worms.

Kendrick & London defeated K.C. James & Idol Stevens, and after the match Ashley planted a kiss on Brian Kendrick, who seems smitten with the Diva.

Bobby Lashley overpowered Jamie Noble for a victory, but Tatanka delivered a powerful message to all WWE Fans. Tatanka offered no apologies for his actions last week saying that he was the “victim of many injustices, just like my people.” Tatanka also went on to say that the spirits of his ancestors have awakened a “vengeful warrior,” and that anyone who stands in his way will pay.

MATCHES:

WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick
defeated
Idol Stevens & K.C. James
in a non-title match

Kane & Undertaker defeated
M.V.P. & Mr. Kennedy

" CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP "
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms
defeated
Jimmy Wang Yang

Mike "The Miz" Mizanin & Kristal Marshal
defeated
Vito & Layla

Bobby Lashley
defeated
Jamie Noble

---

SMACKDOWN # 378
Air date: 11-10-06 Taped: 11-6-06
Nationwide Arena
Columbus, Ohio

Fresh off his controversial victory at Cyber Sunday, King Booker - the newly crowned Champion of Champions - kicked off SmackDown from the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. The King’s revelry had just gotten underway when he was interrupted by SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long. After praising the King’s victory and the honor he brought SmackDown, Long informed the King that Batista would be granted a World Championship Title opportunity at Survivor Series as thanks for safeguarding the King last week. King Booker was enraged, but Long quickly put his fears to rest: “Now you may be the Champion of Champions, but at Survivor Series you may no longer be the World Champion. Right now you, King Booker are going to put that world title on the line. Your opponent is Bobby Lashley!” At the end of a brutal match-up between the two titans, Queen Sharmell interfered to help the King pin the powerful Lashley and retain his title. In less than three weeks, Survivor Series will pit the mighty King against his former one-night protector, Batista.

The main event saw Batista take on Finlay, the very man who has consistently prevented the Animal from winning back the World Heavyweight Championship. As the heated rivalry between the two brawlers continued, the Man Who Loves to Fight relentlessly targeted Batista’s injured knee. Despite interference from King Booker and a shillelagh-wielding Little Bastard, Batista finished Finlay off with a powerful spine-buster to claim the win. With Batista and King Booker both conquering formidable opponents this week, their meeting at Survivor Series is sure to be nothing short of explosive.

Mr. Kennedy, the self-proclaimed “future of sports-entertainment” boldly called out Undertaker to find out if the Deadman would accept his Survivor Series challenge. In a startling show of aggression, the brazen Kennedy dared to blindside Undertaker with a steel microphone leaving him bloodied and beaten. Although there are many mysteries surrounding the Phenom, the fate of the rare few who have dared to rise up against him has been shockingly clear.

Matt Hardy teamed with Jimmy Wang Yang to defeat Gregory Helms and Sylvan.

The Current United States Champion Chris Benoit defeated K.C. James in a non-title match.

The Boogeyman crawled out of the Bottomless Pit to a quick win over T.J. Dalton.

MATCHES:

World Heavyweight Champion King Booker
defeated
Bobby Lashley

Matt Hardy & Jimmy Wang Yang
defeated
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms & Sylvan

United States Champion Chris Benoit
defeated
K.C. James

The Boogeyman defeated T.J. Dalton

Dave Batista defeated Fit Finlay

---

SMACKDOWN # 379
Air date: 11-17-06 Taped: 11-13-06
Evening News Arena
Manchester, England

SmackDown traveled over the pond this week where more than 15,000 WWE fans packed the Manchester Evening News Arena. The energy of the capacity crowd proved once again that the popularity of WWE action is a truly an international phenomenon.

The main event pitted Batista and Lashley against World Heavyweight Champion King Booker and Finlay. The match marked Lashley’s final bout at SmackDown before he leaves to join ECW. The future extremist went out with a bang as he helped the Animal take on some formidable competition. Less than a year after Batista was forced to surrender his title due to surgery, he continued his push for the gold by pinning the only man standing in his way: King Booker. The Animal seems almost unstoppable as he bulldozes his way towards Survivor Series.

Proudly displaying his microphone still caked with the Phenom’s blood from last week, Mr. Kennedy spoke out about his upcoming First Blood Match against Undertaker: “The second that I caused the blood to spill from your head, I knew it symbolized a changing of the guard. Last week, these hands -- my hands -- spilled your blood and I’m going to do it again.” Will Kennedy be able to handle the Deadman when Survivor Series rolls into Philadelphia?

MVP got just what he asked for as he took on Kane in a Street Fight. The two competitors battled in the ring, outside the ring, and even in a telephone booth. The newcomer MVP proved he was worthy of the title Superstar, putting up a valiant effort against the Big Red Machine. Just when it looked like Kane’s use of some steel steps would spell end game for MVP, Mr. Kennedy dealt a crushing blow to Kane’s skull with the same microphone he had used on Undertaker. After MVP picked up the win, the Deadman entered the arena. Mr. Kennedy tossed MVP to the dogs and looked on as the Brothers of Destruction pummeled the talented newcomer. Later, Theodore long announced that MVP would meet Kane again next week – in a steel cage.

United States Champion Chris Benoit defeated Tatanka in a non-title match only to be viciously attacked by Chavo Guerrero at the end. Chavo’s actions closely mirrored his attacks against Rey Mysterio only weeks ago. Chavo continuously screamed, “Stay out of my business!” as he landed blow after blow on The Rabid Wolverine.

The Miz took on current rival, the Boogeyman. The match ended in a no contest leaving The Miz covered in worms, but still undefeated.

William Regal triumphed in his home country as he overpowered Paul London for the pin.

In a match up between childhood rivals, Matt Hardy defeated Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms in a non-title match.

MATCHES:

- HANDICAP MATCH -
The Boogeyman vs The Miz & Kristal
ended in a no contest

United States Champion Chris Benoit defeated Tatanka
in a non-title match

William Regal defeated Paul London

- STREET FIGHT -
MVP defeated Kane

Matt Hardy
defeated
Cruiser Weight Champion Gregory Helms
in a non-title match

Dave Batista & Bobby Lashley
defeated
World Heavyweight Champion King Booker & Finlay

---

SMACKDOWN # 380
Air date: 11-24-06 Taped: 11-21-06
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Long Island, New York

SmackDown from Nassau Coliseum was the last stop heading into Survivor Series this Sunday on pay-per-view.

King Booker began by convincing General Manager Theodore Long to sign the Royal Contract. The contract proclaimed that if he is to defeat Batista this Sunday, the World Heavyweight Champion will never have to face the Animal again. Batista made his way to the squared circle where Booker told the challenger, “you can’t beat me." After both men had signed the contract, King Booker ambushed his opponent and unleashed a vicious assault, laying out Batista with the royal scepter. Will the rivalry end this Sunday with SmackDown’s King defeating Batista, or can the Animal overcome the odds and regain what he never truly lost?

Mr. Kennedy delivered his selfish Thanksgiving address to WWE fans. He thanked himself for defeating Undertaker at No Mercy, thanked himself for getting into the heads of the Brothers of Destruction, and again thanked himself for telling the world the truth: that he is the future of sports--entertainment. Kennedy said he would end the career of the Deadman at Survivor Series in the First Blood Match. Undertaker, who had been listening throughout the proclaimation, had heard enough. The Phenom arrived, Kennedy ran, and Undertaker had a very eerie message of his own for Kennedy: blood rained down on the cocky Superstar from the skies. Undertaker once again proved he is truly the master of the mind games, and Sunday the world will see who is the master of the First Blood Match.

Vickie Guerrero confronted United States Champion Chris Benoit before his match with Finlay, and warned Benoit to “stay out of her life.” She then attempted to slap the Rabid Wolverine, who blocked it and walked towards the ring. The match between Benoit and Finlay was a brawl, as the men brutalized each other all over the ring. In the middle of the match, Chavo Guerrero interrupted. As the referee chased Chavo out, Little Bastard handed the shillelagh to Finlay, who used it for the win, pinning the United States Champion Chris Benoit. As Benoit lay nearly unconscious, Chavo frog splashed him twice, delivering the message that Vickie had warned earlier in the night. This Sunday at Survivor Series, the personal rivalry will continue as Chavo Guerrero challenges Chris Benoit for the United States Championship.

In the unforgiving Steel Cage, the only way to win is a pinfall, submission or getting out of the cage before your opponent. Montel Vontavious Porter, who was dominated and nearly destroyed by Kane, shocked the world as the SmackDown rookie managed to escape the Steel Cage Match and the monster Kane with a victory. Since being signed to one of the highest contracts in sports-- entertainment history, many have questioned MVP’s talents. Now, with controversial back-to-back victories over the Big Red Monster, Porter is finally coming into his own. At Survivor Series, these two men will be on opposite teams as they compete in classic elimination matches.

Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms, a member of Team Rated RKO at Survivor Series, defeated Jimmy Wang Yang.

William Regal continued his recent success with a victory over Brian Kendrick.

The Boogeyman and The Miz battled to a no contest, but not before referee Chris Kay was wormed by Boogeyman.

MATCHES:

- STEEL CAGE MATCH -
M.V.P. defeated Kane

Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms
defeated
Jimmy Wang Yang
in a non-title match

William Regal defeated Brian Kendrick

Ken Kennedy gave his Thanksgiving address

Fit Finlay defeated Chris Benoit

The Boogeyman
vs
Mike "The Miz" Mizanin
ended in a no contest

Royal Contract Signing
between Batista and King Booker

---

SMACKDOWN # 381
Air date: 12-1-06 Taped: 11-28-06
HSBC Arena
Buffalo, New York

After regaining the title at Survivor Series less than a week ago, SmackDown’s new World Heavyweight Champion Batista entered the HSBC Arena in Buffalo a happy man. King Booker however, was not so happy. As the former champion demanded a rematch, he was interrupted by the Irishman Finlay, who wanted the opportunity to face Batista. WWE’s fan friendly General Manager Theodore Long announced a Triple Threat Match – which heavily favors the challengers – for the World Heavyweight Champion. Batista made a huge statement by defeating two of SmackDown’s toughest Superstars, pinning Finlay and retaining the World Heavyweight Championship.

While continuing to be at odds after the match, Long made another announcement: King Booker and Finlay would team up against Batista and a partner of his choice at Armageddon. The Animal chose his friend, WWE Champion John Cena.

Theodore Long also announced two other matches for Armageddon, as he has ordered a Last Ride Match between Undertaker and Mr. Kennedy and an Inferno Match between the monster Kane and MVP.

On this night, however, Undertaker would face Montel Vontavious Porter as he sought revenge for losing the First Blood Match at Survivor Series due to MVP’s interference. The match was interrupted by Kennedy, who was thrown into the ring. As MVP ran towards the back, The Big Red Machine chased him back into the ring, and once again the Brothers of Destruction stood together to pummel the young Superstars. At Armageddon, the rivalry between MVP and Kane will literally heat up, while The Phenom looks to take Kennedy for one last ride.

Chavo Guerrero came to SmackDown with an injured Vickie by his side, claiming the injury was caused by the Rabid Wolverine at Survivor Series. Chavo went on to taunt Chris Benoit, saying “why don’t you hit me Chris, someone who hits back,” and also “you were part of our family, and you go and do this.” Vickie added “I never thought a family friend like Chris Benoit would do this.” Chavo used this mind game to his advantage during a return match, as Benoit stopped himself from slamming into Vickie again. Chavo rolled up the United States Champion and held the tights to defeat Benoit.

WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick took on the reunited MNM, who they had defeated to win the titles. The former champions looked to work out some kinks as they head into a showdown with The Hardys this Sunday at December to Dismember. As Kendrick & London looked to have the advantage, William Regal & Dave Taylor viciously attacked them, leaving the tag team champions easy kill for MNM.

MATCHES:

"MNM" Johnny Nitro & Joey Mercury
defeated
WWE Tag Team Champions
Paul London & Brian Kendrick
in a non title match

" WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP "
- TRIPLE THREAT MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion
Batista
defeated
King Booker & Fit Finlay
retaining the title

Chavo Guerrero
defeated
United States Champion
Chris Benoit
in a non title match

Kristal defeated Layla

M.V.P. vs The Undertaker
ended in a no contest

---

SMACKDOWN # 382
Air date: 12-8-06 Taped: 12-5-06
Civic Center
Florence, South Carolina

Less than two weeks from Armageddon, the Superstars of SmackDown invaded the Civic Center inFlorence, South Carolina, hoping to pick up individual momentum as they head toward WWE’s final pay-per-view of 2006.

Former World Heavyweight Champion King Booker approached his partner Finlay early in the night, as Finlay readied himself for a battle with the current champion Batista. Booker told the Irishman that he “screwed it up” last week for the King. Finlay responded by telling Booker “you talk too much,” and added that at Armageddon “[they would] take care of business.” Later in the night, Batista and Finlay were engrossed in a match-up of two powerhouses, with each testing the will of the other. As Batista looked to finish off Finlay, King Booker interfered. The tag team partners for Armageddon dismantled the World Heavyweight Champion, taking turns with their respective weapons, a chair for Booker and the shillelagh for Finlay. The former court member and the King stood tall, as they left Batista lying in the ring.

Mr. Kennedy arrived at SmackDown with a message waiting for him in the arena; a hearse. Kennedy hit the ring and told all of SmackDown, most importantly Undertaker, that he wasn’t intimidated. “You think by parking a hearse in the arena it’s going to get into my head,” questioned the cocky Superstar. “You can’t throw me off my game.” Undertaker then opened the back of the hearse and delivered his message to Kennedy. As he gave the cut throat signal, a visibly shaken Mr. Kennedy ran off into the crowd. Later in the night, Kennedy would return to the ring to face Kane, as the Big Red Monster looked to punish Kennedy. MVP arrived and the two youngsters took it to the Monster, looking to annihilate Kane. MVP has been told by General Manager Theodore Long that either he faces Kane at Armageddon, or he is fired. The Undertaker’s gong sounded, the lights went out, and Kane disappeared. When the lights came back on, Kennedy once again ran out of the ring, leaving Kane’s Inferno Match opponent at Armageddon, Montel Vontavious Porter, alone in the ring. Next week, Theodore Long has announced that The Brothers of Destruction will face MVP and Mr. Kennedy on SmackDown.

Chris Benoit, who for weeks has been looking for answers to his questions, was the one under fire on SmackDown. Benoit had to face the allegations that have been thrown his way by Chavo Guerrero. As Benoit tried to explain his actions as “purely accidental,” Vickie approached and slapped the United States Champion. She then walked down the hallway, where Chavo was waiting, and the two shared a laugh at Benoit’s expense. Chris Benoit took all his anger to the ring, where he unleashed “toothless aggression” on Sylvan. In less than two weeks, Benoit and Chavo will once again do battle for the United States Championship. Will the Guerreros’ mind games give them the advantage, or will the Rabid Wolverine continue his reign?

William Regal and Dave Taylor defeated WWE Tag Team Champions London and Kendrick. During the match, Regal gave chase to Ashley at ringside, distracting the champions from the task at hand, allowing the brutal team of Regal and Taylor to steal a victory.

Jimmy Wang Yang became the No. 1 contender to Gregory Helms’ Cruiserweight Championship by defeating Jamie Noble. At Armageddon, the longest reigning champion in WWE will put the title on the line against SmackDown’s resident redneck.

The undefeated Miz defeated Scotty 2 Hotty, and then escaped being wormed by The Boogeyman.

MATCHES:

- NON TITLE MATCH -
William Regal & Dave Taylor
defeated
WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick


- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion Batista vs Fit Finlay
ended in a no contest

- NUMBER 1 CONTENDER`S MATCH -
for a shot at the Cruiserweight Title
Jimmy Wang Yang defeated Jamie Noble

- NON TITLE MATCH -
United States Champion Chris Benoit
defeated
Sylvan

Mike "The Miz" Mizanin
defeated
Scotty 2 Hotty
continuing his undefeated streak

Mr. Kennedy vs Kane
ended in a no contest

---

SMACKDOWN # 383
Air date: 12-15-06 Taped: 12-12-06
T.D. Banknorth Garden
Boston, Massachusetts

Coming off a vicious beating at the hands of King Booker and Finlay last week, World Heavyweight Champion Batista put in a call to his friend and Armageddon tag team partner this Sunday, Boston native and WWE Champion John Cena. Cena arrived at SmackDown to show support for his friend. However, after being confronted by his opponents at Armageddon, Cena was awarded a match. In his homecoming to SmackDown, General Manager Theodore Long announced Cena would face Finlay for the first time. King Booker and Finlay had plans of their own, and after John Cena was able to defeat Finlay, Booker came through the crowd, looking to do damage to the WWE Champion. Finlay nailed Cena with the shillelagh, and the World Champion Batista, still feeling the effects of last week’s brutal attack, came down to save his invited guest. Have King Booker and Finlay done enough damage to give them the edge come Sunday? Or will Batista and John Cena rise up to face the challenge and stand tall as champions?

Montel Vontavious Porter and Mr. Kennedy continued their reluctance in entering their respective matches this Sunday at Armageddon. MVP will compete against Kane in an Inferno Match, which hasn’t been seen in almost eight years. Mr. Kennedy will face Undertaker in a Last Ride Match, only the second in WWE history. The dangers in both matches have seemingly struck fear in both MVP and Kennedy. The two Superstars were in tag team action against The Brothers of Destruction. Once more the terrified, yet talented twosome looked to gain some advantage heading into Armageddon in Richmond, Va. MVP and Kennedy thought they had the upper hand, as Kennedy looked to run over Kane with a hearse. Shortly after, the Banknorth Garden in Boston got completely dark. When the lights came back on, Undertaker appeared next to Kennedy in the hearse. As soon as Kane sat up from the floor, Mr. Kennedy and MVP ran out of the arena. This Sunday, will the two young Superstars find any way to win their respective matches, or will MVP leave burned by Kane and Kennedy leave in a hearse?

Chavo Guerrero arrived at SmackDown with the still injured Vickie. He demanded Chris Benoit, whom he has accused of being a women beater, publicly apologize for his actions. The United States Champion was finally allowed by Chavo and Vickie to speak about the incident, and Benoit simply stated, “I didn’t do anything wrong.” Chavo took on Funaki with Benoit watching from ringside, and with each blow he delivered to Funaki, Guerrero pointed to Benoit and shouted, “you on Sunday.” Benoit had enough and entered the ring and applied the Sharpshooter. Vickie slapped Benoit and the Wolverine grew angrier. On Sunday, this very personal rivalry will continue as Chris Benoit and Chavo Guerrero battle for the United States Championship.

WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London and Brian Kendrick teamed with resident redneck Jimmy Wang Yang to take on William Regal, Dave Taylor and Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms. Regal and Taylor, who have been very focused in their recent attacks on the champions, walked out on Helms, allowing Yang and the tag team champions to pick up the victory. At Armageddon in Richmond, Va., Regal and Taylor will challenge for the WWE Tag Team Championship, while Jimmy Wang Yang will face the longest running champion in SmackDown history, Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms.

The Miz hosted his very own Face Your Fear Challenge, as he wanted to prove to himself that he was not afraid of Boogeyman and the worms. The undefeated Miz ate pig’s tongue and monkey brains before turning his attention to the worms. He couldn’t force himself to eat them, and Boogeyman rose from beneath the table and ran Miz off. In two days, Miz will have to face his fears as he takes on Boogeyman.

In other action, Matt Hardy continued his winning streak by defeating former MNM member Joey Mercury, and Vito defeated Sylvan.

MATCHES:

- NON TITLE -
WWE Tag Team Champions Paul London & Brian Kendrick along with Jimmy Wang Yang
defeated
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms, William Regal & Dave Taylor

Matt Hardy defeated Joey Mercury

"The Brothers of Destruction" The Undertaker & Kane
vs
Mr. Kennedy and MVP
ended in a double disqualification

Chavo Guerrero defeated Funaki

Vito defeated Sylvan

- NON TILE -
WWE Champion John Cena defeated Fit Finlay

---

SMACKDOWN # 384
Air date: 12-22-06 Taped: 12-19-06
Hampton, Coliseum
Hampton, Virginia

Coming off of Armageddon last Sunday, and just days away from Christmas, the Superstars of SmackDown made one last stop before the holidays in Hampton, Virginia.

King Booker and Finlay entered the arena seething from their loss to WWE Champion John Cena and World Heavyweight Champion Batista. They demanded a rematch from Theodore Long, and the General Manager refused. He informed Finlay and Booker they would face Undertaker and Kane later in the night, much to the dismay of the King and the Irishman. During the match, King Booker and Finlay isolated Kane in the ring as they took turns assaulting Undertaker on the outside. King Booker attacked with a chair, and then a low blow and scepter shot by Finlay. The Phenom recovered, and the Brothers of Destruction were victorious.

The personal rivalry between Chavo Guerrero and Chris Benoit continued to pick up as the New Year approaches. The battle over the United States Championship has grown more intense with the accusations of abuse levied against Benoit in recent weeks, and on this edition of SmackDown another twist was added. As the Rabid Wolverine had the Sharpshooter applied, Vickie entered the ring and hit him with the U.S. title, causing the disqualification. As Benoit left the ring, Chavo Guerrero began a verbal assault on Vickie, and he shoved her to the mat. Benoit made his way back to intervene, and was viciously beaten by Chavo.

Joey Mercury, who was horrifically injured during the Ladder Match at Armageddon, was at SmackDown just days after receiving thirty-five stitches to his shattered face. Mercury told SmackDown fans “the Hardys are responsible for this injury.” Matt Hardy apologized to Mercury, telling him that he was sorry that he had gotten hurt. “It’s unfortunate, but it was a dangerous match,” he said. As Hardy left the ring, Mercury screamed “fight me Hardy.” After he was refused, Mercury brought out his Armageddon partner Johnny Nitro, who was able to steal the victory with help from the ropes, as Mercury cheered for Nitro to “maim” Hardy.

World Heavyweight Champion Batista wished SmackDown fans all over the world Happy Holidays, and as he began to talk about his year, he was visited by Santa Claus. As the Animal helped hand out gifts to the fans in attendance, Santa pulled out a lead pipe and leveled the champion. General Manager Theodore Long ordered Santa to fight Batista, and as the Animal was putting Santa on his naughty list, it was revealed to be Sylvan. The World Heavyweight Champion defeated Sylvan and continued to look unstoppable heading into the New Year.

Gregory Helms had a memorable year, becoming the longest reigning champion in SmackDown history. The young champion “wants competition,” and looks to make an impact in the heavyweight division. Boogeyman answered the challenge for competition, but Helms ran after coming face to face with the worms. Boogeyman then turned his attention to ring announcer Tony Chimmel, who he wormed at ringside.

Former WWE Champion JBL voiced his displeasures with the direction SmackDown has gone, and he placed the blame on Theodore Long for the burning of MVP. JBL also blamed the fans, calling them “sick human beings.”

Four of the sexiest women on television squared off in a tag team match, with Diva search winners Ashley and Layla teaming to take on Kristal and Jillian. Ashley and Layla were able to pick up the victory when Ashley delivered Star Struck to Jillian.

MATCHES:

- NON TITLE MATCH -
World Heavyweight Champion Batista
defeated
Santa Claus aka: Sylvan

- NON TITLE MATCH -
Cruiserweight Champion Gregory Helms
vs
The Boogeyman
never got underway

Johnny Nitro defeated Matt Hardy

" U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP "
U.S. Champion Chris Benoit
defeated
Chavo Guerrero
via a disqualification

Ashley Masaro & Layla
defeated
Kristal Marshal & Jillian Hall

"The Brothers of Destruction" The Undertaker & Kane
defeated
Fit Finlay & King Booker

---

SMACKDOWN # 385
Air date: 12-29-06 Taped
Best Of
2006

The first SmackDown of the New Year will be even more intense as General Manager Theodore Long has announced that next week the Superstars of SmackDown will compete in the SmackDown Sprint. The person who defeats their opponent in the shortest time will get a match for the World Heavyweight Championship at Royal Rumble.

Also, the final SmackDown of 2006 was a Best of SmackDown for the year, and fans were treated to some of the high and low points of the past year of action, including Rey Mysterio’s underdog climb to the World Championship and his vicious rivalry with Chavo Guerrero. The show also highlighted Batista’s pursuit of King Booker and the World Heavyweight Championship, and the reuniting of the Brothers of Destruction, Kane and Undertaker.