WORLD WRESTLING ENTERTAINMENT 2004 - RAW 8/30!

WWE SUMMERSLAM - Sunday, August 15, 2004
Toronto, Ontario, Canada - Air Canada Centre (17,640)
Presented by RAW, SmackDown! and Stacker 2's YJ Stinger
LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW!

0. Rob Van Dam def. René Duprée in 6:07 after the Five-Star Frog Splash. This match aired exclusively on Sunday Night Heat, prior to SummerSlam going on the air. (SmackDown!)

1. The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray, D-Von and Spike Dudley) def. Paul London, Billy Kidman & Rey Mysterio in 08:06 after the 3D by the Dudley Boyz on Kidman. Michael Cole and Tazz, the resident announce team for SmackDown! brand matches, called the action. (SmackDown!)

2. Kane def. Matt Hardy (w/Lita) in 6:08 in a Till Death Do Us Part match after the Chokeslam. Per the stipulation, Lita will now have to marry Kane instead of Matt Hardy. Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler, the resident announce team for RAW brand matches, called the action. (RAW)

3. John Cena def. Booker T (c) in 6:25 in a non-title first match of a Best of Five Series for the WWE United States Championship after the FU. (SmackDown!)

4. Edge (c) def. Chris Jericho & Batista in 8:26 in a triple threat match to retain the Intercontinental Championship after the Spear by Edge on Jericho. Edge was booed throughout by his hometown crowd. (RAW) 

5. Kurt Angle (w/Luther Reigns) def. Eddie Guerrero in 13:38 after the Ankle Lock. (SmackDown!)

6. Triple H def. Eugene in 14:06 after the Pedigree. Ric Flair came out to ringside in favor of Triple H during the match, whilst William Regal came out shortly after in favor of Eugene. (RAW)

7. Team RAW Divas (Trish Stratus, Victoria, Nidia, Stacy Keibler, Gail Kim, Jazz & Molly Holly) def. Team RAW Diva Search (Christy Hemme, Carmella DeCesare, Amy Weber, Joy Giovanni, Maria Kanellis, Tracie Wright & Michelle McCool) in a Diva Dodgeball match. The RAW Divas got into an argument after the game, culminating in a pull-apart between Trish Stratus and Victoria. (RAW)

8. John Bradshaw Layfield (w/Orlando Jordan) (c) def. The Undertaker in 17:37 by disqualification to retain the WWE Championship after Undertaker struck JBL with the title. After the match, Undertaker attacked Layfield, concluding the beatdown with a chokeslam through the hood of JBL's limousine. (SmackDown!)

9. Randy Orton def. Chris Benoit (c) in 20:08 to win the World Heavyweight Championship. Orton celebrated after the match, becoming the youngest World Heavyweight Champion in history, at the age of twenty-four. Benoit confronted and shook Orton's hand after the match. (RAW)

WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW - Monday, August 16, 2004
London, Ontario, Canada - John Labatt Centre (8,600)
LIVE ON SPIKE TV!

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SUNDAY NIGHT HEAT: Sunday, August 22, 2004
- Carly Colon def. Rory McAllister in a dark match.
- The Hurricane def. Garrison Cade in 5:28 after the Eye of the Hurricane
- Maven def. Wavell Starr in 4:11 after the reverse Russian legsweep.
- Robert Conway def. Tajiri in 7:34 after a Sylvain Grenier distraction led to a swinging neckbreaker

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The opening WWE signature aired, which was then followed by several stills of last night's historic main event between Randy Orton and the World Heavyweight Champion Chris Benoit. Ultimately, it was the twenty-four year old "Legend Killer" who made history, when he became the youngest World Heavyweight Champion. The opening video package for Monday Night RAW aired, before going straight to the John Labatt Centre in London, Ontario for the fallout of an eventful SummerSlam pay-per-view, pyrotechnics going off - and an introduction from Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler. Tonight, Edge does battle with Batista for the Intercontinental Championship!

Speak of the devil, the sound of Motörhead roared throughout the JLC, as the new World Heavyweight Champion emerged to a hero's welcome - a juxtaposition from the crowd's feelings towards the "Legend Killer" prior to last night in Toronto. Randy Orton proudly displayed the World title on his route to the ring, where Randy Orton stood in the middle of the ring, soaking in the reaction from the London crowd. Orton, with a microphone in hand, began to address the audience, talking about how he has done many things in the two years he has been a part of the WWE. He's the WWE's first third-generation Superstar. He joined Evolution, arguably the greatest faction to have ever graced the sight of Monday Night RAW. He's killed many legends - from Mick Foley, to Shawn Michaels, to even Fabulous Moolah. He was the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion in seven years. And last night, he cemented himself as the future of the WWE, the future of Monday Night RAW, when he defeated Chris Benoit to become the youngest reigning and defending World Heavyweight Champion in history. Orton then asked everybody that was twenty-four years of age in the crowd tonight, to stand up and show their faces. With that, a plethora of twenty-four year olds stood up - just for Orton to belittle them, acknowledging that he himself is better looking than the average twenty-four year old: hotter, better, and immensely more talnted - which is why he is the future of the business, and that future is...right now.

Orton received a mixed reaction at this point, talking about how he has achieved his destiny - and now he's the man on top of Monday Night RAW. But suddenly, the theme of the former champion, the "Rabid Wolverine" made his way out to the ring to a colossal reaction from his home country. Chris Benoit climbed into the ring, the veteran clapping his hands seemingly sincerely for the "Legend Killer". Benoit congratulated Orton, telling him that he was able to beat him last night and take away the biggest prize in this business from him - something he had chased for nineteen long years. Benoit told Orton that he fought well, and he earned respect from the "Crippler" last night - but that was last night. Benoit told Orton that he wanted his rematch - TONIGHT - if Orton has the guts. Orton took a moment to divulge Benoit's request, before telling his foe that he too, gained respect for Benoit last night. Orton told Benoit that they put on a clinic last night. And what better way to kick off the Age of Orton, than to beat the "Rabid Wolverine" a second time...in a few weeks time. Orton smirked, but Benoit spoke up, telling Orton that everybody knows that he is the "Legend Killer", he's beaten legends left right and centre: but now as the champion, he is the legend - and he wants his rematch tonight, live in London, Ontario! Orton backed up and collected his thoughts, finally granting Benoit the match tonight - with the World Heavyweight Championship on the line!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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1. All or Nothing: Rhyno (w/Tajiri) vs Sylvain Grenier (w/Robert Conway)
Tensions have been running high in the hunt for a World Tag Team Championship opportunity for the "Man Beast" Rhyno and "Japanese Buzzsaw" Tajiri. The ECW alumnus have been attempting to pursue the titles held by La Résistance, but whenever the opportunity has arose, the French-Canadian duo have been able to postpone the title match. It was two weeks ago when Rhyno and Tajiri defeated La Résistance in non-title action, and tonight - if Rhyno was able to beat Sylvain Grenier, then he and Tajiri would have their title match at last. However if Grenier was able to get a win against Rhyno, then Rhyno and Tajiri would never be in contention for the titles as long as La Résistance were the champions. Rhyno slugged it out with a retreating Grenier in the opening moments, including almost securing a victory off of a snap powerslam - but interference from Conway allowed the opportunistic Grenier to strike, beating down on Rhyno and targeting the previously injured neck of Rhyno. Rhyno was able to come back from it, but more interference from Conway distracted the referee - allowing Tajiri to sneak in with the green mist, blinding Grenier until he turned around into the Gore from Rhyno - Rhyno securing victory!

Rhyno def. Sylvain Grenier in 5:17 to gain contention to the World Tag Team Championship

Rhyno and Tajiri celebrated in the ring, whilst Robert Conway tried to sneak in with the Quebec flag in hand - Conway charging Tajiri, just to eat a stiff kick to the gut from Tajiri - and Rhyno hit the ropes, the Gore connecting on Conway! La Résistance may be in trouble when the day the World Tag Team Championships are on the line, as Rhyno and Tajiri appeared ready and waiting to claim the titles.

A graphical letter appeared on the screen at this point, opening up to reveal a well worded invitation from "the Big Red Monster" Kane, inviting the viewers of Monday Night RAW and the audience of Anaheim, California to the wedding of Kane and Lita, live, next week on RAW.

Backstage, Lita was shown entering the Divas locker room to suddenly find that Trish Stratus, Molly Holly, Gail Kim and Jazz throwing her a baby shower! Stratus seemed excited about her true best friend getting married to Kane, the Women's Champion almost mocking Lita over her now ex-boyfriend Matt Hardy's loss to Kane last night. Lita seemed bemused by all of this. Molly tried to brighten the mood, telling Lita she knew how much she liked to sleep around so much - which is why she got Lita some condoms and birth control pills! Gail Kim meanwhile presented Lita with a framed portrait of Lita's first kiss with the "Big Red Monster" - and a picture of what their children may look like...babies with Kane's head! The malicious Divas laughed at Lita's expense, but that's when Jazz presented Lita with a gift - a vibrator - for the nights when Kane is out on the road. The Divas continued to laugh at Lita's misfortune, causing the humiliated redhead to storm out in anger.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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2. Victoria vs Molly Holly (w/Gail Kim)
The Diva Dodgeball game last night contested between the Divas of Monday Night RAW and the remaining contestants of the RAW Diva Search ended up in the RAW Divas' favor, but ultimately it broke down into a tussle between the Women's Champion Trish Stratus and Victoria, with Victoria setting her sights on the title she lost to Trish in a fatal four-way match back at Bad Blood in June. Tonight, Victoria faced her WrestleMania XX rival Molly Holly - Victoria being the reason why Molly Holly is bald tonight - as this match got underway. Molly was able to outwit Victoria with her wrestling experience, taking Victoria to the mat and targeting the abdomen of Victoria, connecting with her handspring elbow in the corner as well as a clothesline - but Victoria stayed in the match. Molly continued to work on Victoria whilst the London crowd got behind the longhair, and Victoria fired back, a standing moonsault getting a near fall. Trish Stratus came out to the rampway to spectate during the match, as she watched Victoria knock Gail Kim off the apron with a forearm - before blocking Molly's attempt at a German suplex - Victoria following through the Widow's Peak, giving Victoria victory!

Victoria def. Molly Holly in 3:54

Victoria celebrated her win to applause from the Ontario crowd, before setting her sights on a gazing Trish Stratus, who was still stood on the rampway. Stratus smiled at Victoria, now perhaps her next opponent for the Women's Championship - until Gail Kim snuck in from behind, a chop block taking Victoria down with her bad leg! Gail and Molly stomped away at Victoria whilst Trish waltzed down to the ring, as Gail and Molly set Victoria up for a big Chick Kick from the champion! The women stood victoriously until Stacy Keibler and Nidia came down to the ring, running off the Women's Champion and her allies! Whatever truce was in place with the RAW Divas going into the Diva Dodgeball game at SummerSlam was definitely over, as Trish, Gail and Molly retreated from the ring.

In the locker room, the Intercontinental Champion Edge was shown preparing for his upcoming match against "the Animal" of Evolution, Batista - when Edge was suddenly joined by Chris Jericho. Both men were a part of the triple threat match last night at SummerSlam with Batista, and Jericho almost secured the victory, if it wasn't for Edge. Jericho wished Edge luck in his match tonight, telling Edge that he knew what it was like being in the ring with a brazen bull like that jackass. Edge nodded, but then mentioned that he was the one that pinned Batista last night. Y2J chuckled, then told Edge that he knows - but then reminds Edge that he almost won the Intercontinental Championship for himself last night: and that when Edge retains the title tonight, he wants his own opportunity. Edge nodded his head, agreeing. Edge was about to leave for the match, but Jericho then mentioned that should Evolution get involved, Y2J is here to help out.

Meanwhile, Batista was shown being coached by "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, as "the Animal" and Flair made their way down to a corridor - the Intercontinental Championship on the line, next.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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3. Intercontinental Championship: Edge (c) vs Batista (w/Ric Flair)

Whilst Edge was victorious last night at SummerSlam in front of his hometown crowd in Toronto, the Toronto crowd were seemingly rejecting Edge as the Intercontinental Champion. In addition, after the loss to Edge last night, "the Animal" was out to win his first taste of singles gold tonight on RAW. Ric Flair in Batista's corner proved to be a threat to Edge's reign, but Edge came into this expecting a battle, which is what happened as Edge and Batista traded blows, going back and forth with Batista ultimately using his pure power as a mean to dominate. Batista assaulted Edge in the corner with repeated shoulder thrusts, before attempting a powerslam, but Edge was able to get out and dropkick Batista away. Edge came back with a clothesline that rocked Batista, but Batista then took Edge down with a sharp clothesline of his own! Batista began to dominate Edge, once again targeting the ribs of the Canadian. Batista even tossed Edge out to the floor, where Ric Flair proceeded to stomp away at the champion, the sixteen time World Champion landing several harsh chops into the chest of Edge with the referee's back turned. Batista then took control as Flair tried to whip Edge into Batista - Edge ducking a clothesline, but then Edge turned back to eat a spinebuster on the floor from Edge - just as we needed to take a commercial break!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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Back from the commercial break, in the midst of a match for the Intercontinental Championship, "the Animal" had the Intercontinental Champion right where he wanted him, as Batista clutched Edge with a bearhug in the centre of the ring, whilst Batista's manager, "Nature Boy" Ric Flair watched on eagerly. Batista tried to keep Edge down on his knees, whilst increasing the pressure - but with London, Ontario strongly behind Edge, he finally made a comeback - two right hands rocking "the Animal", before Edge pulled out a sudden DDT taking the challenger down! Edge slowly reached his feet, taking Batista down with a spinning wheel kick, as Edge attempted to reclaim control. The Intercontinental Champion then came off the top rope with a missile dropkick, covering Batista, but Ric Flair put Batista's foot on the bottom rope! The match continued with Edge following Flair around ringside, wanting to get his hands on the persistent thorn in his side - Edge following Flair back inside, just to encounter a spinebuster from Batista - only for a near fall! Flair instructed to Batista to just look for the win now, as Batista looked to now go for the sit-out Powerbomb: getting Edge on his shoulders, but Edge broke loose, then came off the ropes with a Spear on "the Animal"! Edge covered Batista, but only for a near fall. The match continued, as Edge stood back and looked to prepare a second Spear on the inbound "Animal" - but Batista was quick, cutting Edge off with a spear of his own! Batista then picked Edge up, hoping to look for the sit-out Powerbomb a second time: Edge on a second occasion getting out with a hurricanrana sending Batista into Flair on the corner! Edge then hit the ropes, a second Spear connecting! Edge covered...but Flair jumped in to break it up at two!

Edge (c) def. Batista by disqualification in 8:37 to retain the Intercontinental Championship

The Intercontinental Champion had hoped to come out on top, and came close enough on a second night in a row. And Edge was victorious, but not on his terms, as Ric Flair stomped on the back of the Intercontinental Champion before helping his Evolution protegé Batista up to his feet. Batista, "the Animal", now picked apart at Edge; Batista delivering a big spinebuster on Edge! Flair applied a Figure-Four Leglock on Edge, trying to harm the leg of the Intercontinental Champion...when suddenly Chris Jericho emerged on the rampway, Y2J thinking about coming in to make the save, but instead halfway down the rampway, Jericho decided against it - much like last Monday night on RAW, when Edge could have saved Jericho from a beatdown, but chose against it. Jericho exacted his karma, as the Intercontinental Champion was set up and dropped with a sit-out Powerbomb, courtesy of "the Animal"!

A vignette aired, showing a man known only as Simon Dean. Simon Dean, dressed like a 1980s informercial star in a powder blue ensemble, talked about the Simon System - a fitness program designed to let every fat slob out there to lose weight. He talked it up big, and showed the before and after photos of two completely different males and females, enhancing the effects of the Simon System.

In the backstage area, Lita was shown approaching the locker room of her fiance, knocking on the door sheepishly - and immediately Kane snapped over the door, "the Big Red Machine" telling Lita "baby" that she didn't need to knock. Lita looked angry with the position she was put in, whilst Kane told Lita that everything would be fine when they get married next week. Kane told Lita that first, he had to take care of some things, first looking for a kiss from Lita - planting one on the poor Diva, but Lita slapped Kane across the face! Kane laughed evilly, then told Lita that is exactly what he liked. 

In another part of the backstage area, Jonathan Coachman was stood with the seven remaining contestants of the $250,000 RAW Diva Search - and tonight, as the Coach promised - one unlucky Diva will be going home as voted by the fans at home around the world. In addition, the seven lovely contestants will get a chance to air dirty laundry, in Diss the Diva - up next.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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Back from the break, General Manager Eric Bischoff was seated working on paperwork, admiring the his jottings to himself. With that, a door slam was heard - and in came William Regal. The villain from Blackpool, England paced in, telling Bischoff that he was absolutely disgusted at the fact that his own flesh and blood, nephew Eugene was in the hospital as a result of the loss suffered at the hands of Triple H last night at SummerSlam, and warned Eric that he had really done it this time. Bischoff appeared intimidated initially, but then used his authority to calm down the steaming Brit. Bischoff told Regal to calm down or face a similar fate. Regal continued to get in the face of the GM, whilst Bischoff tried to back off. Eric told Regal that what happens next week happens next week - but if Regal is going to be this angry right now...he can settle it in the ring tonight. Almost conveniently, in lurked the "Big Red Monster" himself, Kane with some wedding decorations in mind ahead of the big ceremony next Monday night on RAW to Lita - when Bischoff blurted out "Kane!" Regal looked confused and let go of Bischoff's collar: Eric Bischoff telling Regal that tonight, as part of his wedding present - he was going to let the "Big Red Monster" tear William Regal limb from limb...in a no disqualification match! Regal turned around to see Kane, who told William that he wanted something to do other than wedding plan tonight - so he looked forward to it. Regal meanwhile threatened the seven-foot demon, asking him if he wanted to get his face any uglier ahead of next week. Kane smirked, then walked out.

Back in the backstage area, Jonathan Coachman was here to present this week's contest for the $250,000 RAW Diva Search. Coach introduced the contestants, including Carmella DeCesare, Amy Weber, Tracie Wright, Christy Hemme, Maria Kanellis, Joy Giovanni and Michelle McCool - but before getting to the Diss the Diva round, Coach had to get rid of one of the contestants: and as a result of fan voting, this week the Diva eliminated was Tracie Wright, who appeared nonchalent about her elimination. Tracie told Coach in a brief interview that her elimination may have been just - but that she will move on to better things. She told fans that they will see her butt very soon.

After Tracie left the scene, the Coach got down to business, as he presented the Diss the Diva contest - where in thirty seconds, the Diva Search contestants were to talk smack about their least favorite contestant. Michelle McCool talked about how everybody hated Carmella, and this became a recurring theme - as everybody talked to great lengths about how unlikeable Carmella DeCesare was. Everybody excluding Amy Weber, who voiced her complaints about Christy Hemme and how hyperactive she can be. Carmella of course, dissed Joy Giovanni and how bland she has been up to this point. Rather than insulted, Carmella appeared flattered by her fellow contestants' comments, telling Coach when asked, that the other Diva Search contestants can kiss her ass. Coach pepped up next week's Diva Search category, where the Divas will get their chance to flaunt their stuff...for the Coach! Coachman smugly signed off, preparing fans for next week.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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In the backstage area, Todd Grisham was standing by with the former World Heavyweight Champion, the "Rabid Wolverine" Chris Benoit. Grisham asked Chris about feeling like the hunter again, after being the hunted - the result of losing the World Heavyweight Championship last night to Randy Orton. Benoit talked about how it hasn't set in, reminding Todd that he had spent his whole career chasing the World title. Benoit said it was a special night at WrestleMania XX - where he and his best friend, Eddie Guerrero stood in the middle of Madison Square Garden with the two most valuble prizes in the WWE. But now he's not got the title around his waist. He commented, telling Todd that he gained respect for Randy Orton when he won it. But now, like Grisham just said - the roles are reversed, and now Orton is the hunted...and Chris Benoit, is the hunter.

4. No-Disqualification: William Regal vs Kane (w/Lita)

It was expected to be a hard-hitting exchange between two brawlers - but the size difference, and the dangerous nature of the "Big Red Monster" was sure to play apart. At the expense of Regal getting in the face of an injured Eugene's "Uncle Eric" Bischoff, the RAW General Manager was punishing the Blackpool brute by putting him in this no-disqualification bout with the seven-foot demon, who dragged his reluctant wife Lita to the ring by the wrist. Regal started off strong, getting in as many strikes as possible, but Kane repeatedly pushed Regal backwards, before taking Regal down hard with a big boot! Bischoff could be seen watching on a television monitor in his office, a big grin on his face - whilst Kane brutalized Regal, including taking him out to the floor, whilst a helpless Lita watched on. Kane ripped open the ringside floor mats, exposing the concrete below: which allowed Regal to bring out his brass knuckles - the villain from Britain coming back with a huge Power of the Punch, right into the face of Kane! Kane was dazed, and so Regal struck Kane again, taking the "Big Red Monster" down! Regal tried to capitalize, mounting him and attempting more brass knuckle punches - but Kane sat up with his hand wrapped around the throat of Regal! Kane shoved Regal down to the floor, then grabbed the steel steps: some cruel intentions in mind for Regal when...Matt Hardy appeared, a bat in hand as Hardy clubbed Kane in the back!

Kane vs William Regal in 2:48 in a No-Disqualification match ended in a no contest

This match was sabotaged by the boyfriend of Lita, as Matt Hardy caused Kane to drop the steel steps to the floor - Hardy with a shot to the abdomen of Kane with the bat - followed by two straight shots across the back! Hardy, who lost the Till Death Do Us Part bout to the "Big Red Monster" last night, costing him the opportunity of marrying his longtime girlfriend Lita - was out for revenge, jumping on Kane and striking him as many times as possible! Hardy then took Lita by the hand and ran up the rampway, whilst Kane remained down on the floor! But Kane suddenly sat up: a look of anger on his eyes, raging as he shoved referees away and down, storming up the rampway to try and find his soon to be wife with his rival!

Meanwhile, the new World Heavyweight Champion was shown warming up in the locker room of Evolution. The "Legend Killer" was lacing up his boots, before he planted a kiss on the title he now owns and defends tonight against the man he won it from last night. Randy Orton was then stopped by an emerging Triple H: "the Game", who was victorious in his efforts against Eugene last night at SummerSlam. Triple H asked Orton how it felt to hold the most prestigious prize in the business. Orton still said it hadn't set in. "The Game" began to give Orton a pep talk, telling him that now he is the man and that everything changed last night. Orton became the World Champion - something held by the likes of Lou Thesz, Harley Race, Dusty Rhodes, "Nature Boy" Ric Flair: even Hulk Hogan, and the "Cerebral Assassin" himself. Hunter talked about how Orton was the future of the industry, and that the future is now, and tonight: Orton needs to beat the "Rabid Wolverine" one more time to cement his legacy. Orton cut Hunter off momentarily, telling Triple H that he knows Evolution has always got his back, and he always has theirs - but tonight, to cement his own legacy: he knows he has to win this on his own terms. Hunter agreed surprisingly easily. Triple H did however tell Randy how proud of him he was - and that after he defends the title for the first time successfully tonight, that they will go out, get some girls, and have a celebration party on behalf of the "Legend Killer".

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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A vignette aired, promoting the return of the legendary "Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels. Michaels, who has been out since June as a result of injuries sustained at Bad Blood in Hell in a Cell against Triple H - as well as a beatdown from Kane that crushed his larynx the night after on RAW - returns very soon.

Back in the office of RAW General Manager Eric Bischoff, the "Big Red Monster" was with him and he looked very angry, Kane shouting at Eric about how Matt Hardy had ran away with the woman he marries next Monday night on RAW! Kane threatened him, telling Bischoff to do something, because he's not allowing Hardy and Lita to break the vow on the line during their SummerSlam match - which is when Eric got himself out of hot water. Eric told Kane that next week, not only would Matt Hardy be banned from the building in Anaheim, California - preventing him from rudely interrupting the wedding proceedings - but should Lita not show up next Monday night to her own wedding: her and Matt Hardy would be blacklisted from not just Monday Night RAW - but World Wrestling Entertainment as well. Bischoff promised Kane this, which seemed to put the "Big Red Monster" at ease...for now at least.

5. World Heavyweight Championship: Randy Orton (c) vs Chris Benoit
In what was a classic match last night at SummerSlam in Toronto, the tables had turned, and now "the Legend Killer" was the World Heavyweight Champion after defeating the "Rabid Wolverine", and with that - as echoed in their pre-match statements, Randy Orton was the hunted; the man with the target on his back - and Benoit, who had chased the World title throughout his twenty year long career prior to WrestleMania - was now the hunter once again. Orton, the youngest reigning World Heavyweight Champion in sports entertainment history, may have earned the respect of Benoit last night - but Benoit still wanted it. Early on it appeared that the butterflies in Orton's stomach was effecting his in-ring abilities, as a hungry Benoit worked over Orton in a mat-wrestling battle; getting the better of Orton to the point that the champion had to bail from the ring. And as Orton wanted, he has no help from Evolution tonight, wanting to, in his own words, "cement his own legacy" in this title fight main event to RAW in London, Ontario. Orton was able to get back in the swing of things with several shots to the stomach whilst in a side headlock - and a whip into the ropes was followed up with a dropkick, taking Benoit down. Orton tried to keep up with this, but Benoit fired back with some ruthless chops in the corner, before taking Orton down with a northern lights suplex for a near fall. Benoit continued to attack Orton with a snap suplex for another near fall, before Orton bailed again. The match was to continue, as RAW took its' final commercial break - going into overtime on Spike TV tonight!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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Back from our final commercial break, Randy Orton now had Chris Benoit in a sleeper hold, with Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler taking us to a replay of what happened during the commercial break - where Benoit continued to brutalize the new champion with chops and a suplex attempt on the floor: thwarted when Orton tripped Benoit and catapulted him head first into the steel ring post! Orton kept the sleeper applied until Benoit began to fight out of it, and out of nowhere Benoit fired back with two consecutive German suplexes, before a third one connected, much to the chagrin of the "Legend Killer"! Benoit motioned his fist across the throat: perhaps ready to go for the diving headbutt, but when Benoit got up there, Orton came back with two right hands - and a draping DDT connected, dropping Benoit on the canvas: Orton with the cover, but only for two! Orton was getting frustrated, as he continued to stomp on Benoit. Benoit attempted to fire back, but Orton cut him off with a big inverted neckbreaker, traumatizing the well documented recovered neck of the former World Heavyweight Champion! Orton was getting cocky now as he lined Benoit up for the RKO; Orton going for it, but Benoit shoved Orton down, then a clothesline followed into a Sharpshooter - successfully applied! Benoit had it locked in tight, with Orton having nowhere to go! Orton was on the verge of tapping out, but he gained the defiance of a champion within, and made the break on the ropes! Benoit looked about ready to take this match home, looking to become a two-time World Heavyweight Champion after losing the gold last night - but as Chris eyed Orton up for a German suplex, Orton low blowed Benoit without referee Earl Hebner noticing, and both men dropped to the mat! In the mean time, Ric Flair came trotting down to ringside: the "Nature Boy" disobeying Orton's own orders to Evolution: and Flair distracted Hebner! But then even worse, Triple H appeared at ringside; removing his jacket and entering the ring: Triple H planting a huge Pedigree on the "Rabid Wolverine" - all whilst Orton was still down and out without noticing Evolution had gotten involved! Orton recovered, and whilst Evolution backed up the ramp, Orton lined a groggy and unsuspecting Benoit up: the RKO connecting on Benoit, giving Orton the 1-2-3!

Randy Orton (c) def. Chris Benoit in 14:32 to retain the World Heavyweight Championship

Without even realizing, the "Legend Killer" had done it - with unknown assistance from Evolution! The London, Ontario crowd in JLC gave Randy Orton a mixed ovation on a job well done, whilst Triple H and Ric Flair were joined by Batista on the rampway! Orton got up in a groggy and confused state, as Evolution joined him in celebration over the defeated "Rabid Wolverine" Chris Benoit! Orton was hoisted up onto the shoulders of Batista and Flair, Orton raising the World Heavyweight Championship high, and now ready to enjoy a night of grand celebrations, after defending the World title for the very first time! J.R. was upset at the interference that Evolution played at the match's conclusion, but Orton appeared to think that he did it all alone - but regardless, the youngest World Heavyweight Champion in history, was still the champion - as RAW went off the air!

WWE SMACKDOWN! - Thursday, August 19, 2004
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada - Copps Coliseum (8,600)
TAPED ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2004; BROADCAST ON UPN!

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VELOCITY: Saturday, August 21, 2004
- John Heidenreich def. Scotty 2 Hotty in a dark match.
- Charlie Haas & Rico def. Akio & Sakoda in 6:08 after the Roundhouse Kick by Rico on Sakoda.
- Mark Jindrak def. Wavell Starr in 3:25 after the Mark of Excellence.
- Orlando Jordan def. Shannon Moore in 4:41 after the reverse STO.
- The Basham Brothers def. Billy Gunn & Hardcore Holly in 6:53 after a roll-up by Danny on Gunn.

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The opening WWE signature aired, which was then followed by a video package reviewing the events of the dramatic WWE Championship match this past Sunday night at SummerSlam. A match pitting the reigning and defending WWE Champion John "Bradshaw Layfield" against the "Phenom" the Undertaker, ended in controversy as the Undertaker's rage due to mind games from the champion, as well as interference from Chief of Staff, Orlando Jordan, led to the match ending in disqualification. But the action did not end there, as the Undertaker would have his revenge, a post-match beating leaving a bloodied JBL chokeslammed through the roof of his own longhorn-hooded limousine; whilst the "Deadman" vowed to come and fight another day. The opening video package aired for SmackDown!, and tonight the Copps Coliseum - home of the first ever Royal Rumble event - is the site of SmackDown! in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada! Michael Cole and Tazz welcome us to the show, on a night where the second match of the Best of Five Series takes place between United States Champion Booker T, and John Cena!

The theme of SmackDown!'s resident Frenchman, René Duprée made his way out to the Hamilton crowd; Dupree as always, accompanied by his loyal, well-groomed poodle, Fifi - as Dupree received many boos from the crowd upon approaching the ring. The crowd continued to boo as Duprée began to belittle the Ontario crowd, telling the fans that he does not appreciate the fact that he is in Ontario tonight. Dupree segued into discussing why he feels he deserves more from SmackDown! General Manager Theodore Long. Duprée said how typical and American it was for him to deny a faithful Frenchman of a place on the SummerSlam pay-per-view event. René said it sickens him and now, to be in a town like Hamilton tonight - even worse. Before Duprée could continue however, out came his opponent Rob Van Dam to shut the mouth of the former World Tag Team Champion!

1. René Duprée (w/Fifi) vs Rob Van Dam
The French Superstar had not anticipated the arrival of "Mr Thursday Night" so soon, as Rob Van Dam; a former five-time Intercontinental Champion and a former World Tag Team Champion, came to shut up René before he could continue belittling the fans in the Copps Coliseum tonight. These two men faced off on Sunday Night Heat prior to SummerSlam getting underway - the focal point of why Duprée is so angry and besmirched tonight. "The Aristocrat" was met with several of RVD's arsenal of athletic kicks - Van Dam connecting with a cartwheel into a standing moonsault early in the match. The bout continued with Duprée on the defensive, as Van Dam lit René up with more kicks in the corner, as well as a shoulder thrust, before handspringing into a monkey flip across the ring. "The Aristocrat" would however get in an eye poke, which allowed Duprée to take advantage, now bringing the fight back to RVD; Van Dam in trouble, as Dupree almost got a win with a roll-up. Van Dam came back from it however, with a side slam and a split-legged moonsault. Later in the match, Duprée got arrogant with a scoop slam: and the French Tickler strut took place, missing an elbow drop on RVD! Van Dam went up for the Five-Star Frog Splash, connecting for a win to kick off the fallout of SummerSlam edition of SmackDown!

Rob Van Dam def. René Duprée in 4:46

Rob Van Dam celebrated his victory after the match, "Mr Thursday Night" continuing to look impressive on the SmackDown! brand. RVD continued to celebrate when Kenzo Suzuki suddenly appeared behind him, jumping the ECW alumni from behind! Suzuki stomped away at Van Dam when René Duprée joined in on the beatdown, leaving Van Dam down and hurting on the canvas! Duprée and Suzuki shook hands, as it appeared that the natives of France and Japan had colluded here against "Mr Thursday Night"!

Meanwhile, Luther Reigns was escorting the Olympic Gold Medalist and former SmackDown! General Manager down a corridor: Kurt Angle talking trash big time, seemingly on his way to the arena - where Angle will speak out for the first time since defeating Eddie Guerrero last Sunday at SummerSlam.

With the fifth anniversary of Thursday night SmackDown! tonight, we take a look back with the SmackDown! Rewind to the very first episode, on August 26, 1999 - where it was Triple H defending the WWE Championship against The Rock with Shawn Michaels as the guest referee.

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We returned live to SmackDown!, where the theme of the Olympic Gold Medalist was playing throughout the Copps Coliseum; Kurt Angle coming out to the aisleway alongside Luther Reigns, both dressed in suits, and not looking to be ready for any type of action. Angle and Reigns walked down to the ring, where the crowd booed and hurled "You suck!" chants in the direction of the former SmackDown! General Manager. After Angle had appeared to have had his career ended due to a broken leg sustained at the hands of the Big Show in March, the former Olympian took the reigns on as the GM - abusing his power where he saw fit - until Theodore Long was voted on by the WWE Board of Directors to replace Angle - and put him in a match at SummerSlam against main rival Eddie Guerrero, where Angle was ultimately successful. The crowd continued to boo loudly, as Angle addressed the fans by saying that he told them so. He said that as a real American hero, the fans should be applauding him. But the fact remains that Eddie Guerrero is nothing more than a disgrace to the WWE. He was a disgrace as the WWE Champion, which is exactly why he went out of his way to get the title from around his waist. Angle claimed that he should still be in charge of the freakin' show, and how it was lucky that he was even in shape at SummerSlam to beat everybody's favorite Mexican, "Latino Heat" himself. Angle then questioned what now, because he has done so much in the WWE. He's been a European Champion, an Intercontinental Champion, a four-time WWE Champion; he's main evented WrestleMania, he's been SmackDown!'s great General Manager...but before he could continue his thought, the theme of Eddie Guerrero hit to interrupt him!

The former WWE Champion came to the ring to confront Kurt in cocky swagger: Eddie telling Kurt Angle not to get mad that he came out here. Eddie told Kurt that he actually wanted to congratulate him, telling Angle that even though he does suck - that's okay, because he beat "Latino Heat" at SummerSlam - in fact, his ankle's still a little sore. Guerrero prodded Angle with barbs about how it is a leg for a leg, reminding Angle of his own leg injury: but then Eddie reminded Kurt that he still beat him at WrestleMania...and that must sting a lot. Angle tried to deny Eddie's intentions, telling Eddie that he has already beaten him, and that he doesn't owe anything more to Eddie for that. But Eddie kept telling Kurt that after everything that happened...they are still one win apiece. Eddie asked Kurt where he ca-hones were, asking them if they died when he was fired as General Manager. Finally, Angle accepted...at a price. Angle stomped into the weakened ankle of Guerrero - which is when Angle and his ally, Luther Reigns, began to stomp away at Eddie, a beatdown commencing with Angle slapping on the Ankle Lock once again on Guerrero this week! He had it locked in tight, until suddenly the theme of Rey Mysterio hit - and out darted the masked man from San Diego! Mysterio hit the ring, sliding between the legs of Reigns: a dropkick sending Reigns out through the ropes! Angle tried to attack Rey, but Mysterio got in a drop toe hold, and just as Rey tried for a 619, Angle bailed with Reigns up the aisleway! Rey attended to his good friend Eddie Guerrero in the ring, whilst Angle and Reigns left fuming!

SmackDown! General Manager Theodore Long was at work in his office discussing ideas with Torrie Wilson, until in walked the Dudley Boyz - led by "the Boss" Spike Dudley, who brandished the Cruiserweight Championship on his shoulder. Spike led Bubba Ray and D-Von in, where Spike told Teddy that the Dudleys had some questions for the so-called boss. Spike emphasized that he is the real boss around here, the boss of the Dudley Boyz, the boss of the cruiserweights - and the boss of even Teddy Long himself. Spike looked smug whilst Bubba and D-Von reminded the GM of how they laid waste to Paul London and Billy Kidman at SummerSlam in six-man tag action, clamoring that they deserve another WWE Tag Team Championship opportunity. Teddy agreed, telling the Dudleys that a match has been made as a result of that - and they get their wish next week. But as for tonight, Long says it's convenient that Spike showed up here: because tonight he's going to have a match of his own with the Cruiserweight title at stake. Spike was flabbergasted, when Long told Spike he'd be defending against Funaki! Spike questioned what he did to deserve this, whilst Long shooed the irate "Boss" and his cousins out of his office.

Meanwhile, Michael Cole and Tazz discussed the Best of Five Series that began at SummerSlam, with John Cena successfully defeating Booker T in match one of the series. They talked about how match two comes up next, with the first match to gain three wins in the series becoming the United States Champion, currently held by Booker. The two were shown walking down hallways on a splitscreen - and match 2 of the series, comes up next.

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In our second SmackDown! Rewind to celebrate the fifth anniversary of SmackDown!, it was on September 9, 1999 where the first and only Buried Alive tag team match to date took place with the World Tag Team Championships on the line, where The Undertaker and the Big Show teamed up to take on The Rock 'n' Sock Connection.

A replay aired reviewing the attack made on Eddie Guerrero at the hands of Kurt Angle and Luther Reigns moments ago, that was thwarted and prevented by the arrival of Rey Mysterio to save his longtime friend. A graphic then aired, with the announce team revealing that the match had been signed, and our main event would be the team of Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio taking on Kurt Angle and Luther Reigns.

2. Best of Five Series for the United States Championship (#2): Booker T [0] (c) vs John Cena [1]
The United States Championship was won by Booker T at a time where Theodore Long was very recently assigned the General Manager of SmackDown!, as Booker had won the title at the conclusion of a eight man elimination match, pinning the former champion John Cena to claim the title for the second time in the five-time WCW Champion's career. And with that, it was announced that Booker's first challenge would be in a Best of Five Series, with Booker's title up for grabs. Booker was obviously none too pleased after losing to Cena in the first match at SummerSlam - but looked to go into this with victory on the other side. Cena rapped to the ring as always, looking to reclaim his title once and for all. Cena went to work on Booker early on, taking him down with some mat wrestling, which is very unlike the challenger. Booker came back and used his experience as a factor in taking over - doing so with a scoop slam that planted Cena down, then followed up with a knee drop. Booker began to try and go after the leg of the former champ, perhaps an attempt to try and slow down Cena - as speed has been something that Cena has been known for previously - but whenever Cena tried to get into control again, Booker wisely cut him off like a great ring general. The Hamilton crowd were supportive of Cena, as Booker kept Cena down - and Cena finally came back with a hip toss cutting Booker off this time! Cena battled back with shoulder tackle after shoulder tackle, before Booker cut Cena off with a Book End attempt reversed into a spinout powerbomb attempt; but Booker blocked it and connected with a sidewalk slam! Booker showboated with the Spinerooni, which prompted more boos - but perhaps it was this that threw Booker off, as Cena came back with the spinout powerbomb, which led to the Five Knuckle Shuffle landing on Booker's face! Cena pumped the sneakers and looked ready to go for the F-U, but Booker was wise to it and kicked Cena in the gut, the Scissors Kick missing, and Cena got Booker up again for the F-U: Booker landing behind Cena, and he clutched him in a rolling crotch pin - Booker with the tights - and the champion stole the three count!

Booker T [1] def. John Cena [1] in 7:45 in Match #2 of the Best of Five Series

Booker T jumped for joy as he slid out to the floor, the United States Champion having his hand raised in victory - Booker being able to tie things up at one apiece in the second match of the Best of Five Series. Booker strutted his way up the aisleway, whilst John Cena looked frustrated in the ring - Cena now knowing that he had to gain an advantage in their third match up.

In the locker room, René Duprée was aligned with Kenzo Suzuki and his wife, Hiroko - Hiroko petting René's poodle Fifi. Hiroko and Kenzo appeared content with how that match went earlier tonight, with the Frenchman and the Japanese man joining forces to take out Rob Van Dam. Duprée talked about how the SmackDown! locker room has never been fair to either man, and that it's time to change that. Suzuki spoke in broken English, explaining that this is their time to prove others wrong. Kenzo added, telling Duprée that they should go get some sushi - but René disagreed, saying he planned to eat a snail dish tonight. Both men argued over their cultural preference of food, before ultimately agreeing to go eat at a diner. Despite the tension, this seemed to be a new team forming on the horizon of SmackDown!

Meanwhile, the longhorns had pulled up in the parking lot outside of the Copps Coliseum - and that could only mean that the WWE Champion John Bradshaw Layfield was in the building with his Chief of Staff Orlando Jordan! Michael Cole and Tazz implied that we would hear from the champ, up next.

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An exterior shot of the Copps Coliseum was shown as we returned from the break, the site of SmackDown! tonight, and also the site of the very first Royal Rumble back in 1988.

The cowbell was ringing throughout Hamilton, which could only mean one thing - the WWE Champion had arrived, as the longhorned limousine drove its way into the Copps Coliseum. The limousine driver got out and helped out Orlando Jordan, JBL's personal Chief of Staff - and behind him...Orlando Jordan helped out a battered and bruised WWE Champion. John Bradshaw Layfield, not leaving SummerSlam looking much like a champion, was bruised head to toe, with a gigantic halo brace around his neck; the cowboy hat however, still wrapped on top of his head! Tazz questioned the severity of the injury, whilst Michael Cole questioned whether this absurdity was necessary from the champ! After much help from Orlando Jordan, Layfield climbed carefully into the ring - Hamilton giving JBL a very negative reaction in regards to the controversial championship match last Sunday against the Undertaker. Jordan held out the microphone for Layfield, who called these people barbarians, stating how it should be illegal for a man of his stature to be put in harm's way, to be brutalized and victimized; to be beaten up and chokeslammed through the roof of his own expensive limousine! JBL asked the fans if this is what a champion looks like, and how they could condone the possibilities of someone like the Undertaker as WWE Champion. "He's dead, and you want that lunatic as your champion!?" Layfield then asked to review the footage from last Sunday, warning women and children to step away from their TV sets right now, whilst stills showed the criminal activity in which the Undertaker committed towards him at SummerSlam.

JBL looked to continue his tirade, but the Chief of Staff had some sucking up he wanted to do. Orlando Jordan told Layfield that what happened to him was an outrage; a vicious attack on a great hero like himself. Orlando told John that he will look after him because he is his WWE Champion - and nobody will ever understand why a man like John Bradshaw Layfield is so respected like he is. Met with boos, Layfield seemed flattered by his Chief of Staff's comments...but it wouldn't last. A gong interrupted, and this signalled the arrival of the "Phenom", the Undertaker making his way down the aisleway in menacing fashion - slowly walking to the ring among the darkness and fog filling up throughout the Copps Coliseum! Orlando Jordan scurried out to ringside to grab a steel chair, arming himself up and standing face to face with the Undertaker - but when Jordan darted at the "Deadman", Undertaker grabbed Jordan by the throat, then shoved him down! Undertaker was making his way to the ring, and JBL had little place to run or hide - somehow managing to fit between the ropes: JBL fleeing out to ringside in fear of the "Deadman"! Layfield lost his hat but stumbled back to Jordan on the aisleway. Meanwhile, Undertaker picked up Layfield's own WWE Championship in the ring, as well as a microphone. Undertaker told Layfield that his business with him is not through yet - dropping JBL's title out to the floor for Jordan to pick up. Undertaker told JBL that he will get his true revenge!

A segue from this, we went to the RAW Rebound - a video package that reviewed the set up and main event to RAW this past Monday night: where Randy Orton was made to defend his newly won World Heavyweight Championship against former champion Chris Benoit - a rematch from SummerSlam - with the match going either way until the interference of Triple H and Ric Flair from Evolution cost Benoit the match: Evolution disobeying Orton's request for no help in this match. But it seemed to be just fine, as Orton never noticed "the Game" or "the Nature Boy" getting involved in his business.

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We returned to SmackDown! on UPN, where Orlando Jordan was helping WWE Champion John Bradshaw Layfield get to safety; Layfield holding the WWE Championship tightly over his shoulder. But suddenly, the duo encountered General Manager Theodore Long, who asked JBL and Jordan where they were going. JBL told Long that they were going home, saying that they can't stand to be in the nuthouse with that lunatic, the Undertaker any longer. But Long seemed confused, telling Layfield that that is a shame, because he's just come up with a great idea. On October 3, the SmackDown! brand will host No Mercy, live on pay-per-view in East Rutherford, New Jersey - and on that night, it will be John Bradshaw Layfield going one on one with the Undertaker for the WWE Championship! JBL appeared beside himself, as Long explained further: to prevent a controversial finish like at SummerSlam, there will be a stipulation added. Bringing us to next Thursday night on SmackDown!: it will be someone of JBL's choosing, taking on someone of the Undertaker's choosing - and whoever's representative wins that match, will get to choose the stipulation for No Mercy's main event. JBL and Jordan were freaking out, but Long walked away with a smile on his face - the Hamilton crowd liking the sound of what will transpire!

3. Non-Title: Paul London & Billy Kidman (c) vs Chavo Guerrero & Jamie Noble

It has been quite a year for the tandem team of Paul London and Billy Kidman, as the high flyers were successful in their efforts to win the WWE Tag Team Championships from the Dudley Boyz back on July 8, and have dazzled crowds with subsequent rematches with members of the Dudley Boyz, including defeating them in their first title defense two weeks ago - however at SummerSlam, it was Kidman who took the fall in a six-man tag team bout against the Dudley threesome, and another WWE Tag Team Championship bout has been announced for next week. This looked to be a warm-up match for the champs against two former Cruiserweight Champions - Chavo Guerrero and Jamie Noble teaming up rather well, in working over the younger London, and trying to wear down his back with a powerbomb from Noble getting a near fall. Chavo applied a Gory Special on London, but London was eventually able to free himself, getting the tag to Kidman. Kidman came in like a house on fire with dropkicks for the two opponents, as London cleared Noble of the ring with an outstanding hurricanrana off the apron to the floor. Back inside, Kidman went up top, and the Shooting Star Press connected - Kidman's knee clashing against the face of Chavo - giving Kidman and London the win!

Paul London & Billy Kidman (c) def. Chavo Guerrero & Jamie Noble in 5:22 in a non-title match

Paul London and Billy Kidman appeared to be packing momentum going into their WWE Tag Team Championship defense against the Dudley Boyz next week in Fresno, and celebrated their win against a game team of former Cruiserweight Champions in Chavo Guerrero and Jamie Noble. However, something was off, as Jamie Noble attended to a down and out Chavo, who appeared to be injured from the Shooting Star Press that landed with Kidman's knee clashing with the face of Chavo. Referees came out, whilst the announcers worried about the incident, reviewing several replays. Chavo was given a humble ovation as he was helped out by referees, but still seemed to be out on his feet.

An advertisement aired, promoting the return of Tough Enough for Season 4, coming soon. And unlike in past editions, and unlike the $250,000 RAW Diva Search; the winner of this season of Tough Enough - exclusive to the SmackDown! brand - will earn $1,000,000!

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In another SmackDown! Rewind, this time looking back at April 4, 2002 - the first edition of SmackDown! of the Brand Extension under the authority of Vince McMahon, featuring Superstars such as The Rock, Kurt Angle, Chris Jericho, Edge, Triple H and Hulk Hogan.

Back on SmackDown!, more replay footage aired of what went down moments ago, where during a tag team bout between WWE Tag Team Champions Billy Kidman and Paul London taking on Chavo Guerrero and Jamie Noble, Kidman came off the top rope with a Shooting Star Press to finish the match - but when he landed on Chavo, his knee bounced off the face of Chavo Guerrero. Michael Cole and Tazz gave us an update on the condition of Chavo, saying that he may have suffered a concussion - and telling fans to keep updated by going to WWE.com.

4. Cruiserweight Championship: Spike Dudley (w/The Dudley Boyz) (c) vs Funaki
It was back on August 3 in Houston where Spike Dudley shocked the world when the runt of the Dudley Boyz turned his back on the fans, and attacked Rey Mysterio - revealing himself as the brains behind the Dudley Boyz faction. One week later, thanks to outside interference from Bubba Ray and D-Von, "the Boss" of the Dudleys was victorious in claiming the Cruiserweight Championship from Mysterio - and since then, Spike has been walking around with a sour attitude - belittling everybody in his path. Dudley was angry about being put in action tonight, whilst the Dudleys joined and watched on from ringside, seven days prior to their rematch with Paul London and Billy Kidman, with the WWE Tag Team Championships on the line. His opponent tonight of course, SmackDown!'s #1 Announcer in Funaki - who traded blows with Spike early, before taking him down with a dropkick and a hiptoss. The numbers game came into play however, as Bubba and D-Von distracted Funaki, allowing Spike to repeatedly gain an advantage, including using a tornado DDT on the Japanese Superstar. Shortly after, it wouldn't take long for Spike to capitalize, the Dudley Dog connected, giving Spike the three count.

Spike Dudley (c) def. Funaki in 3:35 to retain the Cruiserweight Championship

The Cruiserweight Champion's hand was raised in victory, Spike Dudley victorious in a mostly one-sided affair tonight against Funaki. Bubba Ray and D-Von however was not going to let Funaki end his night there - an attack made on Funaki with both Dudleys stomping a mudhole in Funaki - Spike meanwhile directing traffic! A 3D connected, before Spike ordered both men to "Get the Tables"! "The Boss" was large and in charge, as the Dudleys set up a table inside the ring - Spike sitting on the top rope as Bubba and D-Von picked Funaki up and propped him on Spike's shoulders - the Cruiserweight Champion with a powerbomb off the second rope to Funaki through the table! Spike led Bubba and D-Von out, a message made to anybody wanting to mess with the Dudleys.

In the locker room, Eddie Guerrero was shown icing his ankle, whilst Rey Mysterio stood nearby. Eddie thanked his amigo for having his back, telling Rey that in tonight's match, he wants to show Kurt what it's like to fight dirty. Mysterio and Guerrero joked about taking Reigns out of the equation, before Eddie said on a serious note, but tonight, he wants Rey to leave Kurt for himself. Mysterio complied, as both men left the locker room ready for action.

Meanwhile, Kurt Angle and Luther Reigns, still relenting and ready for action, were on their way to the ring - tag team main event action against Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio coming up next!

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Back on UPN SmackDown!, a vignette aired showing the intense and fierce John Heidenreich, managed by former SmackDown! General Manager Paul Heyman, who makes his debut on SmackDown! next week.

5. Kurt Angle & Luther Reigns vs Eddie Guerrero & Rey Mysterio
It was time for main event action, featuring two men that are embroiled in a fierce rivalry that dates back to the beginning of the year. It was Kurt Angle who took Eddie Guerrero's side during a feud between Eddie and his nephew Chavo Guerrero: but this friendship was proven to be a lie, as Angle grew jealous of Eddie's success, becoming the WWE Champion at No Way Out in February. Angle then challenged Eddie for the title at WrestleMania XX, where he was outsmarted by "Latino Heat" shortly before his leg was broken during an incident with the Big Show throwing Angle from a high ledge. In this time, a brooding Olympic Gold Medalist's career was thought to be over, as he was assigned the SmackDown! General Manager - allying himself with Luther Reigns to act as his enforcer. Angle abused his power and was then replaced by Theodore Long - who made Angle against Guerrero a match for SummerSlam, where Angle was successful. But things did not seem to be over yet, as Eddie was aided by Rey Mysterio earlier tonight - and Eddie wants nothing but Angle in this main event tonight. Eddie and Rey made their way out in the lo-rider of Guerrero's, whilst Angle and Reigns appeared very serious, stepping into this match. Mysterio started off with Luther Reigns, who tried to get his hands on Rey but to little success early on, as Mysterio used his quick-witted agility to outmatch Reigns: and Mysterio delivered a hurricanrana, almost going for the 619 - but Reigns bailed out to regroup with Angle at ringside, whilst we went to a commercial break.

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Returning to action, Luther Reigns was now delivering repeated elbows into the face of a cornered Rey Mysterio, with Reigns brutalizing Mysterio with the size advantage: and during the commercial break it was Kurt Angle who teased getting into the ring with Rey Mysterio - before Luther Reigns came in from the other side of the ring, jumping Mysterio, and knocking Eddie Guerrero from the apron. Reigns applied a chinlock on Mysterio, trying to keep him down and in place - but the Hamilton crowd were firmly behind Mysterio - Reigns able to stop Mysterio from breaking free of the hold with a big mat slam, followed up by a double underhook suplex - Reigns only able to get two at this time, as Mysterio kicked out. In came Kurt Angle, who then began to mock Eddie from across the ring: the former SmackDown! General Manager stomping away at the ankle of Mysterio; even dragging Rey close to the corner, where he could wrap the legs of Rey around the ring post - just slamming his leg into the ring post for extra effect! Angle talked trash to Eddie Guerrero more, before eventually this was too much for Rey - who fired back again: Rey blocking an Ankle Lock attempt by flicking Angle off, and then a springboard armdrag connected - Rey leapfrogging over Reigns; and Mysterio attempted to climb up top - but his ankle was hurting from the legwork done by the Olympian - and Angle crotched Mysterio up top: Angle darting up and bringing Mysterio down to Earth with a belly-to-belly suplex from the top rope! It looked bad for Rey as Eddie Guerrero waited desperately to get back into the match - but first, SmackDown! had to take its' final commercial break of the night!

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SmackDown! returned with no more commercial breaks to take, whilst Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero were now bringing the fight to Kurt Angle and Luther Reigns! Eddie tossed Kurt Angle over the top rope and to the floor to join Luther out at ringside - and Eddie came down on top of both men with a slingshot crossbody plancha! Eddie continued to trade blows with Angle on the floor, which set up Rey to come charging from across the ring, springing over the top rope with a somersault topé landing on all three men! A replay showed what went down during the commercial break, as Mysterio made the tag to Eddie at last, who then relented with multiple right hands to a legal Kurt Angle: the two rivals going at it with Guerrero applying an Ankle Lock on Angle. Back to current time, Guerrero rolled Angle back inside whilst Reigns and Mysterio battled it out on the floor. Guerrero looked to go for the Frog Splash from the top rope - but Angle stopped him in time, managing to drag Eddie down to the canvas with an attempted Ankle Lock: but Eddie kicked Angle off! Guerrero then cradled Angle for a near fall, before Eddie walked into a clothesline from Luther Reigns! In came Rey Mysterio at this point with a springboard legsplash on the shoulders of Reigns: Mysterio with a drop toe hold to Angle - dialling up and executing the 619 on the Olympic Gold Medalist! Angle was now in trouble, as Eddie went up to the top rope: the Frog Splash connecting - and Eddie Guerrero covered Angle, just for Reigns to break it up! Luther Reigns tried to attack Eddie, who gave Reigns a sly kick to the groin out of referee Brian Hebner's eye sight: Mysterio dropkicking Reigns out to the floor. Meanwhile, Angle executed the Angle Slam on an unsuspecting Rey Mysterio - but Guerrero then rolled Angle up with the tights...for the three count!

Eddie Guerrero & Rey Mysterio def. Kurt Angle & Luther Reigns in 16:26

"Latino Heat" had settled the score evenly with Kurt Angle once again - outsmarting him at the climax of a long-winded, heated tag team main event! The Olympic Gold Medalist was irked, but before he got a chance to get a hold of Eddie, he had slid out to the floor. Eddie helped Rey Mysterio up to his feet, whilst both men celebrated with big smiles on their faces - Guerrero and Mysterio strutting back up in the aisleway to their lo-rider. Meanwhile Kurt Angle was left raging and throwing a tantrum in the ring, unable to contain himself after being defeated tonight. Guerrero and Mysterio mocked Angle from a distance, taking a seat in their ride, whilst SmackDown! went off the air.

WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW - Monday, August 23, 2004
Anaheim, California - Arrowhead Pond (12,000)
LIVE ON SPIKE TV!

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SUNDAY NIGHT HEAT: Sunday, August 29, 2004
- Maven def. Chuck Palumbo in 4:50 after the reverse Russian legsweep.
- The Hurricane & Rosey def. Ollie John & Dale Scott in 3:14 after a diving legdrop from Rosey to Dale.
- Edge def. Garrison Cade in 5:12 in a non-title match after the Spear.

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The opening WWE signature aired, which was followed by a graphic very similar to last week with a letter opening, a voiceover and formal, calligraphic text inviting the fans of Monday Night RAW to attend the wedding of Kane and Lita, which takes place tonight. The opening video package for Monday Night RAW aired, taking us live and inside of the Arrowhead Pond in Anaheim, California - the site of WrestleMania XII and WrestleMania 2000 - but tonight, the site of the "Big Red Monster", getting married to Lita! Jim Ross and Jerry "the King" Lawler welcomed us to RAW, on a night where the World Tag Team Championships will also be at stake, as La Résistance defend against Tajiri and Rhyno!

But first, to kick off Monday Night RAW, the theme of Jonathan Coachman was playing, and Coach had took centrestage - the Coach asking what better way there was than to kick off RAW in Anaheim, than to kick off with the RAW Diva Search contestants. He introduced the six remaining contestants, Maria Kanellis, Carmella DeCesare, Michelle McCool, Christy Hemme, Amy Weber and Joy Giovanni, who came down to the ring all wearing bikinis. Coach appeared very smug tonight, but said that before revealing what this week's challenge was for the $250,000 RAW Diva Search contestants - somebody was going home. He peppered up the crowd, a drum roll leading to Coach revealing that fan voting had made the decision that Joy Giovanni would be going home this week! Some boos to this, as Joy hugged her fellow contestants; Coach giving Joy some time to process her elimination on the microphone. Joy told the fans that this had been the experience of her life, and she couldn't be happier. Giovanni smiled and waved whilst leaving.

Back to the ring, Coach reminded the hopeful Divas of what the challenge was last week, where Diss the Diva was the challenge - and everybody unanimously chose to diss Carmella, who remained passive to the other Divas' qualms. However, in contrast to last week, Coach explained that this week, there'd be no dissing - just praising. The Divas would each get two minutes each to talk about how great...the Coach was! Coach arrogantly told the Divas to feel free to kiss ass - when suddenly The Rock's theme song hit! The Anaheim crowd went ballistic, when out came The Rock, pacing down to the ring! Rock stepped into the ring to loud "Rocky" chants, the contestants meanwhile appearing very starstruck in his presence. Rock flirted playfully with Christy and Michelle, before directing his attention towards Coach. The history was there, with Coach having been belittled by Rock many times during his career as an interviewer. Rock, who was back tonight for the first time since May, made fun of Coach's goofy glasses and his crappy shirt: Rock running through his catchphrases, before literally chasing Coach out of the ring! Lawler was stunned that the host of the Diva Search had been treated this way. Back in the ring, Rock continued to appear charming in front of the five remaining contestants. Rock said that he hijacked this contest because the last thing he wanted to hear was Divas kissing the Coach's ass. In fact, nobody, not even the Diva Search contestants wanted to hear them compliment the Coach.

But what the Rock wanted to know from the contestants was...whether the women liked pie. Rock asked each if they liked pie - and Amy Weber actually said she dislikes pie! Rock appeared shocked by this; whereas Christy Hemme told Rock how much she loved pie, particularly cherry pie. Rock nodded, then brought out Tajiri from the backstage area - who had a tray of many pies in his hands - Tajiri looking extremely happy tonight, and also ready to challenge for the World Tag Team Championships later tonight alongside Rhyno. Rock thanked Tajiri amusingly, whilst Tajiri stood lingering, looking at the Divas in their bikinis. Rock told Tajiri to redirect his eyes: whilst Rock moved on, telling the Divas that tonight, they would have thirty seconds to each...eat pie for the fans in Anaheim tonight. Rock allowed Weber to begin, who kind of winced every time she ate the baked good - Rock immediately disgusted with her performance. Moving on, McCool ate the pie like a normal person; whilst Carmella literally shoved her face into her pie. Christy Hemme? She took an unorthodox route, resting the pie on the canvas...and rubbing her ass all over the pie! Hemme came up with pie all over her rear end, with Rock looking a little lost for words, and Tajiri gawking over Hemme! Lastly, Maria Kanellis flanted her stuff eating the pie with her fingers in seductive fashion - and the crowd loved it.

The Rock went to wrap up, when suddenly Jonathan Coachman re-emerged, the Coach lined with the World Tag Team Champions, La Résistance, who both have history with Rock - last time Rock was on RAW, Robert Conway and Sylvain Grenier having gotten their asses kicked by Rock and Eugene. Coach with a microphone in hand said how mad he was that Rock had stolen his thunder, which is when Rock and Tajiri got prepared to give Coach and the French-Canadian's a fight! Grenier and Conway got the better of Rock and Tajiri - when suddenly Rhyno came charging to the ring; Rhyno with a Gore taking Grenier out of the ring - a Buzzsaw Kick from Tajiri taking Conway down! The Coach looked terrified, but before he got a chance to leave: Rhyno and Tajiri blocked his exit! Coach, petrified, turned around to eat a spinebuster from the "Brahma Bull" - and the former seven time WWE Champion raised an eyebrow...the People's Elbow connecting on Coach! On a night where Tajiri and Rhyno challenge La Résistance for the World Tag Team Championships, Rock had humiliated the Coach once again, in a shocking return to Monday Night RAW for the "Great One"!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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Back live on Monday Night RAW, Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler reviewed what had just happened with the opening RAW Diva Search segment - the Coach having been bested by the Rock - who made a shocking return to RAW, taking out Coach and hijacking the Diva Search contest. Afterwards came La Résistance, who Tajiri and Rhyno face later tonight with the World Tag Team Championships at stake - but Tajiri, Rhyno and Rock got the best of them - a final People's Elbow taking Coach down and out.

Shifting forward, the "Big Red Monster" Kane was getting dressed up in his tuxedo - Kane actually dressed rather charmingly, ahead of his wedding coming later on tonight with a rather hesitant Lita. Kane was approached by Todd Grisham, who asked Kane for a few comments ahead of his wedding later on. Kane was intimidating, but admitted that he has no reason to tonight. Kane told Todd that he is just so excited to get married to his little flame - and that there would be no Matt Hardy around to ruin things tonight. Kane grinned maliciously when he commented on what his and Lita's honeymoon would be like.

1. Trish Stratus, Molly Holly & Gail Kim (w/Tyson Tomko) vs Victoria, Nidia & Stacy Keibler

Back at SummerSlam, Victoria and Trish Stratus got into a brawl at the conclusion of Diva Dodgeball - contested between the RAW Divas on a truce, and the RAW Diva Search contestants. And after Victoria got a win against Molly Holly last week on RAW, it was Trish, Molly and Gail Kim who put the boots to her - until Nidia and Stacy Keibler made the save. Tonight, it was six Diva tag team action, with Trish Stratus vs Victoria announced for Unforgiven on September 12, the Women's Championship to be on the line on that night. Nidia tried to bring the fight to Molly, whilst Stacy mixed it up with Trish for a time, until the expertise of Molly and Gail set in, making Stacy the Diva in peril. Victoria was desperate to make the tag - which she finally got: Victoria rushing Molly and Gail from the ring and bringing the fight to Stratus in particular! Victoria almost scored a win with the sunset flip, but Trish kicked out of it; Victoria going for the Widow's Peak at this time...but Tyson Tomko pulled on the foot of Trish, the "Problem Solver" freeing Stratus from the finishing move: Stratus nailing Victoria with a Chick Kick, giving Trish the win for her team!

Trish Status, Molly Holly & Gail Kim def. Victoria, Nidia & Stacy Keibler in 4:13

Trish appeared irked by what had transpired with Victoria coming close to beating her - which is when Trish Stratus continued to put the boots to Victoria in the ring! Molly and Gail continued to brawl with Nidia and Stacy Keibler at ringside, whilst Tyson Tomko stepped inside: Trish tossing a prone Victoria to the "Problem Solver" - who put Victoria up in the backbreaker rack...stopped suddenly! In ran the Mystery Woman that has been following Victoria around for weeks, and the big woman chased Tomko off, saving Victoria and burying Tomko in right hands until Trish and Tomko managed to bail from the ring! The mystery woman attended to Victoria, who looked absolutely weirded out by her...as did Nidia and Stacy at ringside, not sure what to make of this.

Meanwhile backstage, Chris Jericho was shown getting ready for singles action tonight against Batista - Y2J tying up his wrist tape when suddenly Edge came into the room. There was some tension between the Canadians, as the Intercontinental Champion Edge wanted to address why Jericho never came to his aid last week. Y2J told Edge that it's because Edge never saved him against Batista the week prior. The scene was surprisingly dramatic for the Superstars involved, when Edge made a sly remark - resulting in a backstage brawl breaking out between the two men - referees having to run in to break up the brawl! Jericho was shouting at Edge, telling him how he wanted the Intercontinental Championship, whilst being restrained by officials. Meanwhile, Y2J faces Batista next!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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An advertisement aired, promoting Monday Night RAW's next pay-per-view presentation, Unforgiven on September 12.

2. Batista (w/Ric Flair) vs Chris Jericho
After the exchange that Y2J had just had with Edge in the backstage area, it appeared that all bets were now off when it comes to a partnership between the two Canadians - with Chris Jericho making it clear that he wanted the Intercontinental Championship. Jericho was all fired up and ready to go at it with "the Animal" Batista - who was the third man in a triple threat match for the Intercontinental Championship back at SummerSlam: Batista having been on a tear as a monster recently. These two men met back at Vengeance in July, where Batista was victorious - but this match looked to be different, with Y2J equally as motivated as Batista. Jericho charged Batista with rights and lefts, and even took the "Nature Boy" Ric Flair off the apron with a springboard dropkick - unfortunately allowing Batista to gain momentum, taking Jericho down and beginning to wear him down. Batista had a chinlock on Jericho, using every part of his big arms as an advantage. The Anaheim crowd however, were heavily supportive of Jericho, who made a comeback and managed to break free. Shortly after this, Jericho connected with a single handed bulldog - Y2J setting the wheels in motion for a Lionsault - but Ric Flair pulled the ropes down, causing Jericho to go crashing down - resulting in a disqualification!

Chris Jericho def. Batista in 5:15 by disqualification

For the second week in a row, Ric Flair had prevented "the Animal" from losing in what could be damaging fashion to Evolution! The Anaheim crowd booed at the result, when Flair and Batista began to come for revenge on the cocky Canadian. Batista pounded away at Jericho, before Flair set Y2J up for a fierce clothesline from "the Animal"! Evolution was standing tall, much like last week - but suddenly Edge came running down to the ring! The Intercontinental Champion had a steel chair in hand; and he ran Batista and Flair away with several missed shots with the weapon! Edge then glared back at Jericho, before he slammed the chair down on the floor and began to leave - the Intercontinental Champion apparently making a point to Y2J here tonight.

In the dressing room of the bride-to-be, Lita was having her make-up done by an assistant, when suddenly a door slam was heard. And who would walk in, but her husband, the "Big Red Monster"! Lita rolled her eyes whilst Kane, half-dressed in all white, told Lita how he knows it's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding - but he doesn't care. Kane was carrying a white dress, and told Lita that he wanted her to wear that tonight, which Lita looked incredibly angry about. Kane then got a hold of Lita's face, and planted a big kiss on her - then fretted that he didn't want her to run away from him, or have anything get in the way of tonight, because it is very special to him and it should be her as well.

In a corridor, the new World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton was shown walking - the "Legend Killer" making his first appearance since a successful first defense went down against Chris Benoit last week, despite some unwanted assistance from Triple H and Ric Flair. The youngest World Heavyweight Champion is set to address the Arrowhead Pond...next!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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An exterior shot of the Arrowhead Pond was shown back live on RAW, the site of tonight's show, and the wedding of Kane and Lita later on tonight. 

In the office of RAW General Manager Eric Bischoff, the RAW GM was talking to Jonathan Coachman about how embarrassing earlier tonight was, getting berated by The Rock like that. Eric assured Coach that this wouldn't happen again, when William Regal arrived in the room. Eric told William that he was glad that he made it - the Blackpool villain telling Bischoff that it better be good, because he was looking after Eugene, and he's had to leave him alone in the hallway so he doesn't have to come face to face with his vile Uncle Eric. Bischoff told Regal that he knows his nephew is here, which is why, much like last week when Regal got in the face of authority - Mr Regal will be in action tonight. Why? Because Eric wanted Eugene to show him what a false idol was. And tonight, Wiliam Regal is that false idol. Eric told Regal that he also knows how much he dislikes Evolution - which is why tonight, it will be Regal taking on the sixteen time former World Champion, Ric Flair. Regal said that this sounded fine by him, but warned Eric not to piss around with him.

Back live on a busy night in Anaheim, the theme of the twenty-four year old new World Heavyweight Champion was playing - and out came the "Legend Killer" Randy Orton to a mostly positive reaction. It appeared that for the third-generation Superstar, it had settled it that he was the holder of the biggest prize in the business, as Randy Orton gloated with the World Heavyweight Championship on his shoulder - dressed in a fancy suit - for tonight's show. Orton, who defeated Chris Benoit both at SummerSlam to win the title, and last Monday on RAW to retain the title - had fought very hard to become the man on top of the RAW brand, and even gained the respect of the "Rabid Wolverine". However, Orton, who wanted to cement his legacy last Monday night, was able to win after an assist from Evolution - but Orton did not realize on that night. Tonight, Orton started out very smugly when addressing how he is the youngest World Heavyweight Champion in sports entertainment history. Orton declared himself the top of RAW...or so he would like to say he is. Orton says that women love him, that men his age aspire to be him, and he is gaining the respect of a locker room. But to say he is the face of the RAW brand...that's a pipedream, at least right now. Orton relayed to a replay of last Monday night, where in the midst of a hard fought battle with Benoit in Randy's first defense of the World title, he was given help from Triple H and Ric Flair - who later hoisted him up on their shoulders in celebration. And as Orton says, it was a very good night for Evolution, that he was left feeling a little empty. Orton revealed that he does not feel satisfied, knowing that Triple H and Ric Flair helped him retain the World Heavyweight Championship last week on RAW. And he knows for a fact that Chris Benoit, the person he beat to get this on two consecutive nights, he feels slighted as well. Which is why the "Legend Killer" wanted to invite Benoit to come out to this ring right now.

Instead...out came "the Game". Triple H came out with a look of confusion on his face, the leader of Evolution and Randy's own mentor coming to the ring with arms wide open for the "Legend Killer". Hunter asked what Randy's problem was, and where he has been all week. He commented on last week, they had a hell of a night with a limousine, champagne and women. And they partied all night...just so Orton could go into hiding. Triple H wondered what Randy had been doing, to which Randy told Hunter that he's already commented on what happened. He said that as much as he loves him, Ric Flair and Batista - he is the World Heavyweight Champion now, and he's got to prove himself to be The Man. Randy told Hunter that he's got to be The Man now and prove his way - which is why he wants to invite Chris Benoit out here tonight to personally challenge him to another rematch, one on one, on September 12 at Unforgiven. And just like that, the theme of the "Rabid Wolverine" hit, and out paced Chris Benoit - the former World Heavyweight Champion coming on down to the ring, perhaps in a lion's den with two members of Evolution. Benoit kept a fair distance away, but got right into Triple H's face and told him to mind his own damn business. Chris then said that he would love to take Randy up on that offer. Benoit says that he knows Orton is a better man than Triple H, and he has outgrown Evolution. Benoit said that Randy claims himself to be the "future of the business", and he can easily see that happening...but without Triple H, Ric Flair and Batista in his way.

Benoit then formally accepted the challenge for Unforgiven, with the World Heavyweight Championship on the line. But Triple H then asked Randy what he was doing. Hunter told Randy that without Evolution last week, Orton could have lost the World Heavyweight Championship he fought so valiantly for. Hunter said that Benoit was on the cusp of victory, and that this is what he doesn't understand. Triple H said that they had his back against Benoit last week, and that even when he himself was The Man as World Champion, he had the help of Evolution. But that's when Benoit reminded the "Cerebral Assassin" that that worked out great - except that Triple H never got to beat Chris Benoit, and yet Triple H's protegé did! Benoit told Hunter that Orton has grown his wings, and that he should let him fly away now. Triple H looked insulted and sighed, ingenuously agreeing, before kicking the leg from under Benoit! Triple H stomped away at Benoit to boos, when Randy Orton got in his way - Orton asking Hunter what the hell he was doing! Triple H pointed the finger at the man he has mentored since the beginning, telling Randy that this was his business. Orton and Hunter got at each other's throats about who's business this was, when Benoit suddenly recovered and grabbed Hunter: Benoit applying a Crossface on Triple H! Hunter was tapping out, but Orton was able to pull Benoit off of him, when Benoit suddenly delivered a clothesline to Randy Orton! Evolution cleared out, as it appeared that despite their differences, Orton still cared about Hunter - whilst former champion Chris Benoit stood alone in the ring, staring down the dysfunctional two Evolution members!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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We returned live to Monday Night RAW, where footage from moments ago was shown, with the altercation involving World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton and Triple H of Evolution, as well as Chris Benoit - with the announcement of Benoit challenging Orton for the World Heavyweight Championship at Unforgiven on September 12, much to the chagrin of Orton's mentor, Triple H.

In the backstage area, Triple H and Randy Orton were squabbling once again, with the World Heavyweight Champion telling Hunter how this could have all been avoided if he had just stayed out of his way. "The Game" noted that but said he needed to tell Orton the truth, and now the truth has come out. Hunter asked Orton why he cared so much about what Chris Benoit said - when suddenly Eric Bischoff appeared on the scene. Eric told Randy that he admired what he did out there, acting like The Man around here, assigning himself a match for Unforgiven, where the World Heavyweight Championship is at stake against Chris Benoit. And that's nice, but it's actually Eric Bischoff who is in charge around here - and as RAW General Manager, he is telling Randy that at Unforgiven - it will be Randy Orton against Chris Benoit...against Triple H! Orton and Triple H looked angered by this, with Orton asking Triple H why he always has to get involved. More tension in the Evolution faction, three weeks away from a triple threat match with the World Heavyweight title at stake!

3. World Tag Team Championship: La Résistance (c) vs Rhyno & Tajiri

After the several of weeks that the ECW alumnus have had, Rhyno and Tajiri having come close but yet so far away from a shot at the World Tag Team Championships held by La Résistance, last week it was Rhyno who was successful in defeating Sylvain Grenier, with the assist from Tajiri - the two granted this World Tag Team title opportunity as a result. Grenier and Robert Conway got involved earlier on tonight during the RAW Diva Search contest of the week - where The Rock had made a shocking return and hijacked it from Jonathan Coachman - the French Canadians coming to help Coach clear house, just for Rhyno and Tajiri to wind up in a brawl with the champions. La Résistance worked well as a team early on, attempting to dissect the neck of Tajiri with a double flapjack landing the "Japanese Buzzsaw" throat first across the top rope. Grenier and Conway choked Tajiri whilst Rhyno looked to make the tag - almost succeeding, just for La Résistance to cut Tajiri off. They continued to make consistent tags, but finally La Résistance made a subtle mistake, allowing Tajiri to make the tag to Rhyno! Rhyno came in and ran down Grenier and Conway; a belly to back suplex getting two on Grenier. Tajiri wrapped the Tarantula on Conway in the ropes, which allowed Rhyno to charge for a Gore in the ropes, on an upside down Robert Conway, taking him out! Tajiri now lined up Grenier for a Buzzsaw Kick; Grenier ducking it and delivering a low blow! Tajiri clutched his groin, whilst Rhyno took Grenier down with a Gore - covering...but Conway broke it up! Conway brought the fight to Rhyno now whilst the "Man Beast" was caught off guard. La Résistance attempted to whip Rhyno off the ropes, and Rhyno tried for a Gore that missed: and suddenly La Résistance capitalized with the Au Revoir, getting the win!

La Résistance (c) def. Rhyno & Tajiri in 5:46 to retain the World Tag Team Championship

The World Tag Team Champions had succeeded in defeating Rhyno and Tajiri, La Résistance hugging their championships tight, an unbelievable result in the ultimate test for the ECW alumnus! Sylvain Grenier and Robert Conway had succeeded, leaving with the titles secured, whilst Rhyno and Tajiri were saddened by the loss.

Backstage, "the Nature Boy" was getting pumped up, punching the big palms of "the Animal" Batista; Ric Flair set for action shortly against William Regal. Flair was giving Batista a pep talk of a lifetime, talking about how he was going to bloody Regal up. Meanwhile in a hallway, Eugene and William Regal were en route to the ring, Eugene excitedly clapping his hands whilst Regal shadow-boxed; Regal takes on Ric Flair, next!

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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Returning to RAW, another infomercial aired with Simon Dean heavily touting the Simon System. He talked it up a lot, showing a lot of before and after photos, and deriding the unfit and overweight viewers. He added that he was coming to RAW soon, to show everybody how great a success the Simon System has been - and what it can do for you too.

4. William Regal (w/Eugene) vs Ric Flair (w/Batista)
After everything that Eugene had been through with Evolution, this feud raged on as Eugene tonight was returning from a cracked rib suffered in his SummerSlam match against "the Game" Triple H. On the contrary, William Regal was making a point to Eric Bischoff, trying to be a good role model and a carer for Uncle Eric's nephew, Eugene - who Regal believes he doesn't care about. In response, Eric has been making life hard for the Blackpool Brute, last week in singles action against "the Big Red Monster" Kane - and tonight, facing "Nature Boy" Ric Flair of Evolution. And of course, it was only earlier tonight where Batista and Flair had gotten involved in beating down on Chris Jericho, until Edge made the rescue - and it was announced during this match that next week, Chris Jericho and Edge would team up to face Flair and Batista in tag team action. Regal methodically started off by taking Flair down to the mat and trying to wrestle the sixteen time World Champion, but Flair would not allow it for long, and not long after this, a fist fight broke out between the two! Regal with the strikes; Flair with the chops, and suddenly Batista tried to get involved in tripping Regal, allowing Flair to come in with a chop block to the leg! Flair then worked over the leg, grounding the Brit whilst an anxious Eugene watched on from ringside. Flair hit a shinbreaker and was sizing Regal up for the Figure-Four Leglock, but Regal kicked Flair out to the floor - and that's when Batista tried to help Flair out, just to take a right hand from Eugene! Eugene and Batista got into a brawl with Batista getting on the winning end of things - whilst Flair flopped back into the ring: Regal rolling Naitch up, and stealing the win!

William Regal def. Ric Flair in 4:28

"The Nature Boy" had been beaten, and Ric Flair was absolutely livid whilst William Regal rolled out to the floor! Regal's hand was raised by an excited Eugene - whilst Flair was throwing a tantrum in the ring, with an irate "Animal" Batista! Regal meanwhile, kept jumping the obstacles that RAW General Manager Eric Bischoff were throwing at him, successful again tonight on RAW.

The SmackDown! Rebound aired, reviewing what went down last Thursday night on UPN. A broken John Bradshaw Layfield came out, the recipient of a post-match brutal assault from the Undertaker at SummerSlam four nights prior - where Layfield was driven through the roof of his limousine with a chokeslam. Layfield, wearing a halo brace, bruised from head to toe, almost fearsome of the Undertaker's presence - which soon happened, as the WWE Champion ran away from the ring upon the Undertaker's arrival: the "Phenom" warning JBL that their business wasn't done, as he threw the WWE Championship at a fleeing Orlando Jordan.

Suddenly another graphic aired showing the letter inviting us to Kane and Lita's wedding in Arrowhead Pond, Anaheim, California - and regretfully, this comes up next.

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COMMERCIAL BREAK

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Back live from the commercial break, we had run the last of the commercial breaks for the night, with it now being time for the "hottest wedding of the summer" between the "Big Red Monster" Kane and Lita. The ring was decorated in white, with the ropes being taken down, an archway where the priest stood in the ring, and the barricades dressed to the nines for this anticipated wedding. Jerry Lawler was looking very forward to this ceremony, telling Jim Ross how he always tears up at weddings. Kane's theme hit first; the "Big Red Monster" looking more like a big white monster tonight, the pale skinned demon walking merrily to the ring dressed in a white tuxedo. Kane was happy about tonight, which he calls "very important" to him, whereas J.R. noted that Lita has been forced into this wedding, as Kane defeated Lita's boyfriend Matt Hardy at SummerSlam, where the winner would get to marry her. And tonight, Matt Hardy was banned from the Arrowhead Pond, with the warning that should he appear in person to ruin this wedding, he would not just be banished from Monday Night RAW, but he would be blacklisted from the WWE as a whole. Kane stood with a big grin on his face, whilst the priest invited the wedding singers - a couple - to sing during Lita's entrance.

And with that, Lita appeared - but not wearing the white dress that Kane wanted her to wear earlier tonight: instead, black! Kane was a little shocked and angered by his spited wife-to-be, but Lita walked to the ceremony tightlipped, and not wanting any part of this. Kane grabbed Lita by the arm, warning her not to ruin this night for him. But suddenly, the ceremony was interrupted by Eric Bischoff! Out came Bischoff in a white tuxedo of his own, standing on the rampway with a champagne glass in hand. The RAW General Manager called for a toast, tapping his glass. He thanked Kane personally for the invitation to tonight's wedding, which he knows will not only be the hottest wedding of the summer - but the hottest wedding in the ratings. Bischoff wished them both the best, almost insincerely, with a grin on his face. Bischoff left, allowing the ceremony to continue. Back to business, the priest asked Lita to recite her wedding vows to her "love". No response from Lita. Kane then insisted that he begin to read his, the "Big Red Monster" reminding her of the first time he forced a kiss upon her. It was love at first touch. He continued, telling Lita how happy he is to be marrying her, so that she will become his. He especially mentioned that he was excited for the honeymoon, where their hotel room would become a hot, steamy inferno of love. And last but not least, he can't wait for Lita to birth their beautiful, beautiful offspring. Boos for all of this, with the priest now asking the couple to present the other with their rings. Kane reached into his pocket with the box containing the wedding rings...when suddenly he was blindsighted!

It was Matt Hardy! Matt Hardy was here, with a devil may cry attitude, not caring about being banished from the WWE at all! Hardy fired away at Kane with rights and lefts, not wanting Kane to marry his longtime girlfriend - but suddenly security charged for the ring, grabbing Hardy by all limbs - and escorting Hardy up the rampway away from the ceremony! Hardy was screaming for Lita, and Lita seemed extremely flattered and in love with Hardy for his commitment shown tonight. Hardy was dragged to the backstage area for probable ejection - whilst Kane stumbled back up to a vertical basis. Kane dusted himself off and looked furious, but then took a few deep breaths, demanding that the priest continue, and that he hurry up. The ring was forced upon the hand of Lita, and Kane placed the ring on his own finger in return. Lita was getting more and more upset at this wedding as it went on - with the priest now wrapping up the ceremony and pronouncing them husband and wi---

The theme of Shawn Michaels rang out throughout the Arrowhead Pond, and the crowd went ballistic! Michaels, who hasn't been seen since June, where he had his larynx crushed at the hands of the "Big Red Monster" - he was back! The "Heartbreak Kid" however was nowhere to be seen, and an already irritated Kane turned around to the stage, looking for Shawn to show his face...when Michaels appeared behind Kane - Sweet Chin Music connecting with Kane's head! Lita left the site and ran away from the wedding, up the rampway, whilst Michaels posed over the unconscious "Big Red Monster"! HBK was back, as he now headed up the rampway with his theme music playing - and Kane sat up, the groom to be having his wedding absolutely ruined by Shawn Michaels! Kane was raging, whilst Michaels goaded Kane from the rampway - RAW going off the air!

WWE UNFORGIVEN - Sunday, September 12, 2004
Portland, Oregon - Rose Garden
Presented by RAW and Clearasil
LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW!

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP - TRIPLE THREAT MATCH
Randy Orton (c) vs Chris Benoit vs Triple H

WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP
Trish Stratus (c) vs Victoria

WWE NO MERCY - Sunday, October 3, 2004
East Rutherford, New Jersey - Continental Airlines Arena
Presented by SmackDown! and WWE Day of Reckoning for the Nintendo GameCube
LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW!

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP - CASKET MATCH
John Bradshaw Layfield (c) vs The Undertaker

WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW - Monday, August 30, 2004
San Francisco, California - Cow Palace (8,500)
LIVE ON SPIKE TV!

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SUNDAY NIGHT HEAT: Sunday, September 5, 2004
- Rodney Mack def. The Hurricane in 5:21 after the Blackout.
- Maven def. Greg Groothius in 4:10 after the Overdrive. 
- Chris Benoit def. Steven Richards in 7:24 after the Crossface. Richards had accused Benoit of being the Mystery Woman in a previous backstage segment.

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The opening WWE signature aired, followed by a video package recapping what went down last week, with the "hottest wedding of the summer" between Kane and Lita, which was interrupted several times, first by Matt Hardy - who was banned from entering the arena under penalty of blacklisting from the WWE in the first place - and then before the marriage was consummated, Shawn Michaels, making his return and laying out the man that sidelined him back in June, the "Big Red Monster", effectively ruining his wedding day. 

We went to the office of RAW General Manager Eric Bischoff, who was met with many boos from the San Francisco crowd. He addressed the occurrences that went down last week, where the "Big Red Monster" Kane's wedding day, which he was excited for, and should have sparked huge ratings, was destroyed by the interruptions of Matt Hardy and Shawn Michaels. Eric told fans not to worry, saying that despite this, Kane and Lita were married over the period of last week at a registration office in Anaheim - but there are repurcussions that need to be made. As made effective last Tuesday night, Matt Hardy, due to ignoring the orders of the RAW GM, has been released from his contract, and as a result has been blacklisted by not just Monday Night RAW, but SmackDown! as well! Eric declared that Hardy is not even allowed to attend as a fan anymore, banned from all WWE events. Meanwhile, following on from his return last week, it appears that Shawn Michaels is now dumb enough to pick a fight with the "Big Red Monster" - and therefore, in two weeks at Unforgiven, it will be Kane against the "Heartbreak Kid" in a Last Man Standing match! Eric moved on to comment about the persistent thorn in his side, nephew Eugene's return last week - and since SummerSlam saw such a good match, why not make it two for two on RAW? Triple H tonight, takes on Eugene, in a No Disqualification bout! Bischoff smiled, callously hoping that we enjoy tonight's show.

The opening video package for RAW appeared before seguing into the Cow Palace for the show, two weeks away from Unforgiven! Jim Ross and Jerry "the King" Lawler welcomed us to the show, firstly addressing the ludicrous nature of Uncle Eric making the match for tonight, Triple H against Eric's own nephew Eugene in a No Disqualification match. J.R. appeared dead set against it, whereas King seemed all for it.

1. Ric Flair & Batista vs Chris Jericho & Edge
There are scores to be settled between the three men that were involved in the match back at SummerSlam several weeks ago, where Edge was able to retain the Intercontinental Championship against Batista and Chris Jericho in a triple threat match - however, the tension has gotten more and more between Edge and Y2J, with Edge and Jericho coming to blows in the dressing room last week. Meanwhile, "the Animal" and the "Nature Boy" of Evolution have been targeting everybody opposed to their faction in recent weeks, repeatedly attacking both Jericho and Edge, with Jericho and Edge walking into this match tonight looking like strange bedfellows. Flair started off with Edge, and sure enough to start things off, the Intercontinental Champion was looking good, a big back body drop and several clotheslines sending Naitch packing early, until getting back inside just to walk into a big flapjack from the champion. Edge harshly tagged Jericho with a slap on the chest - lingering passive aggressive behavior between the two Superstars. Jericho continued to bring the fight to Flair, until Batista distracting the referee allowing Flair to get in a low blow, and Batista got the tag! Batista fought against a straddling Jericho, who tried to fight back against "the Animal", just to get shut down with repeated knees to the abdomen and chest region. Batista got Jericho down with a sidewalk slam, but Y2J was far from done yet. Batista continued his offense, until Jericho suddenly came out of nowhere with a back elbow off the top rope at Batista, followed up by a triangle dropkick knocking Flair off the apron, whilst RAW went to a commercial break!

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Back live on Spike TV, things had swayed back in the way of Evolution, as footage from during the commercial break showed Ric Flair, the illegal man, crotching Chris Jericho in the ring post, and then swinging the legs of Y2J into the ringside, allowing his team to get the upper hand. Back to real time, the "Nature Boy" was dropping elbows and stomping away at the leg of Chris Jericho, whilst Edge waited eagerly for the tag. Cow Palace got strongly behind Jericho, whilst Flair looked at attempting a shinbreaker, but Jericho was able to elbow his way free - Y2J with a one handed bulldog flooring Flair; Jericho attempting the Lionsault, but Batista on the apron dug his knee into the spine of Jericho as he run the ropes! Flair chop blocked Jericho and now looked to attempt the Figure Four Leglock: Jericho able to cradle Flair for a near fall...Y2J reaching out, and the tag was made, getting to the Intercontinental Champion! Edge entered the ring, taking Jericho down with a spinning wheel kick and a clothesline knocking Batista down; it down to Edge and Flair in this heated opening contest on a packed edition of Monday Night RAW. Edge attempted the Edgecution on Flair, but Batista intercepted it, spearing Edge into the corner, when Jericho made the rescue, looking to fight off Batista - but he walked right into a big clothesline from "the Animal"! Jericho rolled out to the floor, whilst Flair attempted to whip Edge into a clothesline from Batista for himself - but Edge ducked it and took Batista down with a Spear in the corner! Flair then attempted a chop block, but Edge sidestepped it; and the Edgecution connected, Edge covering the "Nature Boy", and picking up the win!

Edge & Chris Jericho def. Batista & Ric Flair in 10:29

The Intercontinental Champion was successful in defeating the former sixteen time World Champion tonight in a heck of a way to kick off RAW tonight in the Cow Palace; as Edge's hand was raised in victory - Chris Jericho, hurting from the clothesline from Batista moments earlier, coming inside to also have his hand raised...which is when Edge suddenly nailed Jericho with the Intercontinental Championship gold! Edge was booed for his actions, but then told Y2J that it was "nothing personal". The competitive rivalry amongst the Canadians was intensifying, as Edge stormed away from the ring alone.

Meanwhile, Lita was shown sitting down in the backstage area, when the redhead was suddenly approached by the "Big Red Monster" Kane - Kane expressing how delighted he was that they were now married. Lita looked threatened, whilst Kane put his hand on her shoulder, warning her never to run away from him, because he wouldn't want something bad to happen. Kane then told Lita to be happy they're married - and tonight, he has a little surprise for Lita, something that he's sure Lita's little "friend", the now fired Matt Hardy, will appreciate. Kane laughed in Lita's ear maliciously, before leaving the scene.

Elsewhere, the Intercontinental Champion Edge was shown having just gotten to the backstage area, when he was confronted by interviewer Todd Grisham - Grisham asking the out of breath winner of the opening match about what just happened. Edge told Todd that he did what he felt was necessary; that Chris Jericho wants his Intercontinental Championship - but he, he wants to prove who the better man is. Which is why, the Intercontinental Champion: yes, he, wants a match with Chris Jericho, with the IC title on the line, on September 12 at Unforgiven. Edge walked off, requesting no further comment.

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An advertisement aired, promoting the next RAW branded pay-per-view, which will be Unforgiven, live on pay-per-view on Sunday, September 12, with a main event of Randy Orton defending the World Heavyweight Championship against Triple H and Chris Benoit.

In the parking lot, the World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton was shown, notably showing up by himself on a night where his mentor in Evolution, and one of two men he will meet at Unforgiven, Triple H meets Eugene in a no disqualification main event. "The Legend Killer" collected his bags from out of the trunk, before heading towards the Cow Palace - suddenly interrupted by none other than William Regal. The villain from Blackpool, who has been Eugene's guardian in recent months, told Orton that he knows things are strained right now with Evolution, however he wanted to ask Orton to tell his mate Triple H to call off the match. Regal told Orton that Eugene does not deserve this treatment, stating that it's Eric Bischoff that he has problems with - and he's had his beef with Evolution already. Randy told William that he just won the World Heavyweight Championship: that he doesn't need this - that's Hunter's business, not his. Regal reiterated that he knows Orton is a busy man now, but he is asking him to tell Triple H to call off the match. Orton looked confused, telling Regal that he won't do it, saying he doesn't even know where Hunter is right now. Regal started to get angry, the "Blackpool Brute" becoming agitated by Orton's vague claims. He told Orton he knows he knows where "the Game" is, which is when Orton warned Regal to back off, that he'd just got here and doesn't need this. Regal then suggested they settle this misdemeanor in the ring - maybe Orton could prove himself as World Heavyweight Champion. Orton accepted, which is when Regal left the scene. Orton meanwhile looked baffled, as if he didn't know what was happening tonight!

2. 3-on-2 Handicap match: La Résistance & Jonathan Coachman vs Rhyno & Tajiri
On top of Rhyno and Tajiri having had their problems with the World Tag Team Champions in La Résistance - they also had both had their issues with Jonathan Coachman, which culminated in dramatic fashion last Monday night on RAW, where The Rock made a grand return to RAW to evade the RAW Diva Search contest, typically hosted by the Coach. After belittling Coach, Coachman returned with Sylvain Grenier and Robert Conway - the World Tag Team Champions coming to attack Rock and Tajiri, until Rhyno made the save. But then, later on in the night, La Résistance weaselled their way to retaining the World Tag Team Championships with the assistance of the Quebec flag. Rhyno and Tajiri tonight were able to potentially get the frustrations off their mind, but also running into danger, in taking on all three problems in their way in one match tonight. Coach hid on the apron whilst Conway mixed it up with Tajiri in the opening moments - the "Japanese Buzzsaw" using his educated feet to get the better of the turncoat momentarily, until Sylvain Grenier got the tag, and the two on one attacks began. Conway and Grenier traded frequent tags, and even let the Coach come in to batter an already weakened Tajiri! Rhyno meanwhile waited on the sidelines, the "Man Beast" getting the crowd pumped for Tajiri to make a comeback. Coach came in again to stomp on the "Japanese Buzzsaw", but Tajiri suddenly struck back, a series of kicks and a head kick sealing the deal, taking down Coach fast! Tajiri made the tag to Rhyno whilst Tajiri was jumped by Grenier; Conway coming in to try and save Coach - Rhyno delivering the Gore to Conway! Coach meanwhile slowly stumbled back to his feet - and Rhyno struck him with a Gore as well, picking up the three count!

Rhyno & Tajiri def. La Résistance & Jonathan Coachman in 5:16

"The Man Beast" and the "Japanese Buzzsaw" were victorious on this night, having defeated the World Tag Team Champions and Jonathan Coachman! The Coach was down and out not moving, whilst Conway had rolled out to the floor. Meanwhile, Sylvain Grenier was brawling with Tajiri, until the Japanese kicked Grenier down to his knees; Tajiri striking with the Buzzsaw Kick to Grenier! The numbers game did not effect the ECW alumnus, as they continue to pursue the World Tag Team Championships.

Backstage, Women's Champion Trish Stratus was gearing up for action later on tonight, where she teams with Molly Holly to take on Victoria and Stacy Keibler, which is when Molly Holly and Gail Kim came in to talk strategy. They discussed how little talent Stacy had despite the use of her legs, and Trish confidently said that Stacy would not be a problem, not thinking of her as a threat. But who is a threat? Whoever that freak is that follows Victoria around wherever she goes. Gail and Molly pondered what kind of woman gets in that kind of shape; but Trish then told the two not to worry, because if that Mystery Woman showed up tonight, her "Problem Solver" Tyson Tomko would solve the problem. Pan to the other corner of the Divas locker room to show Tyson Tomko stood with his arms folded, which is when Molly and Gail looked back at Trish in confusion, asking if he has been here all night. Trish said yes, grossing Molly and Gail out.

Meanwhile, the newest husband on the RAW roster, the "Big Red Monster" was making his way to the ring, towing Lita by the hand, forcing her to the ring for whatever this surprise is: Kane headed to the ring next!

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Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler welcomed us back to Monday Night RAW with an outside shot of the Cow Palace in San Francisco, California shown - Ross and Lawler showing recognition to the band Saliva for permission to use "Survival of the Sickest" as the theme song for Unforgiven, live on pay-per-view on September 12 - the titled album available in record stores now.

Pyrotechnic blasts went off, signalling the arrival of the "Big Red Monster" and his redheaded bride - Kane forcing Lita out to the ring to loud boos, holding her tightly by the hand. Kane got into the ring with Lita climbing in under the ropes - Kane standing before the big crowd in San Francisco tonight. Kane started by thanking the crowd for their patience last week in the wedding ceremony, saying how irritating it can be to get interrupted so much. Kane said that despite the terrible ceremony, he and Lita are officially married - and nobody can do anything about that. Kane appeared irked still from last Monday, where he was attacked first by Matt Hardy - and later a returning Shawn Michaels. Kane said that he and Lita are happily in love, and bound for the rest of the time...and there was nothing anybody could do, even if they tried. Much like Matt Hardy, who got in his way last Monday night, trying to take down the wedding...and he got fired for it. Kane then asked Lita if she cared that Matt got involved last week, but then refused to let her speak, telling Lita that it was very rude of him. And now Matt is nowhere to be seen. Why? Because he disobeyed orders. Eric Bischoff has blacklisted Matt Hardy from World Wrestling Entertainment, and Lita will never see Matt Hardy ever again! Kane moved on, asking the people about Shawn Michaels, whether they are concerned for his safety after getting his larynx crushed at his expense back in June. Kane said he put the "Heartbreak Kid" out once, and he wants to do it again. Especially after he got involved last week! But Kane said he didn't need to worry about that, saying he would do it at Unforgiven in the Last Man Standing match.

Lita then spoke up, telling her husband to just get to the point. Kane told Lita to shut her mouth, but that's when Lita fired back with a big blow. "I despise you!" Kane looked on the verge of snapping, but then laughed it off. He said that that's why he loves her, and this is why their marriage works. Kane then moved on, telling Lita that he will get to the point - because he wants to present to Lita, the many, many siblings of Matt Hardy...the Hardy Brothers! Suddenly, out came four males of different sizes, Kane titling each of them as Fat Hardy, Rat Hardy, Bat Hardy and Flat Hardy! Lita groaned and palmed her face, whilst Kane told Lita that right now he was going to show Lita what he would do to Matt Hardy if he ever showed his face again. Which is when Kane delivered a big boot to one of the Hardys! Kane delivered a throat thrust to another one, and delivered a sidewalk slam to another! Kane brutally pounded on one with numerous right hands, before picking up Fat Hardy and delivered a gigantic Chokeslam! Kane laughed with the carcasses of the so-called "Hardy Family" surrounding him. "The Big Red Monster" raised his arms high when...the theme of Shawn Michaels played out!

Kane looked in disbelief whilst Lita had a grin on her face, the "Big Red Monster" being faced with Shawn Michaels, who emerged on the rampway! Shawn stood with a microphone in his hands, jeans and a new shirt showing he was in no form to compete tonight. Michaels asked Kane if he was done with this ridiculousness. Shawn did however, congratulate Kane on his big wedding day - the "Heartbreak Kid" also apologizing insincerely for ruining the big day last week in Anaheim. Kane angrily told Shawn to come down to the ring like a real man, which is when Shawn told Kane that he doesn't think he will, because that wouldn't be very smart of him. He joked at Kane's expense, telling the "Big Red Monster" that he may have crushed his larynx, but that he is here right now talking as great as ever - and if Kane thinks for one second, he'll shut his mouth...he is wrong. Shawn then told Kane that at Unforgiven in Last Man Standing, there will be one man standing tall, and his name will not be Kane. Shawn told Kane that he doesn't forget, and that's why at Unforgiven on September 12, HBK is going to lead Kane back into the inferno he calls home. But not just for Kane's sake, but Lita's as well. Shawn joked about the honeymoon, saying how Lita doesn't seem to be very acquainted with the "Big Red Monster"s sensitive side...asking him if he could even satisfy her. Michaels tried to continue, but Kane cut him off this time - the "Big Red Monster" warning Shawn that if he thought June was anything to go by, just wait until September 12. Because on that night, Shawn won't need a stretcher, and he won't need an ambulance. Hell, why the ten count? Kane told Shawn that at Unforgiven, he would be taking the "Heartbreak Kid" to the depths of Hell. Kane and Shawn continued to face off, just two weeks away until Last Man Standing!

But tonight, William Regal was shown walking a corridor with Eugene behind him - the "Blackpool Brute" clicking his wrists and preparing for singles action with the World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton: Regal telling Eugene to wait here and get ready for his match with Triple H. Eugene complied reluctantly whilst Regal kept on walking. In a splitscreen, Randy Orton walked another corridor, the "Legend Killer" prepared to take on William Regal up next!

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Returning to RAW, another infomercial aired with Simon Dean heavily touting the Simon System. He talked it up a lot, showing a lot of before and after photos, and deriding the unfit and overweight viewers. He added that he was coming to RAW soon, to show everybody how great a success the Simon System has been - and what it can do for you too.

3. Non-Title: Randy Orton (c) vs William Regal
We were back on Monday Night RAW with the World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton set up in non-title action tonight against the guardian of Eugene, William Regal; as the "Blackpool Brute" took some offense to the "Legend Killer" refusing to request to ally and Unforgiven opponent Triple H to call off "the Game"s no disqualification match tonight against Eugene - and Orton, with something to prove now, as World Heavyweight Champion - had to teach Regal a lesson in not getting in his way. Orton of course, two weeks away from defending the World Heavyweight title in a high stakes triple threat match against not only former champion Chris Benoit, but also his supposed mentor in Evolution, the former eight time World Champion, Triple H, in a triple threat match. And as evidenced by his lack of interaction with "the Game", there is tension that exists within the ranks of Evolution - which Jim Ross theorized began when "the Game"s own mentor won the World Heavyweight Championship from Chris Benoit at SummerSlam - Benoit being someone Triple H has never defeated before himself. Regal was in no time to play with Orton, coming at him with a flurry of European uppercuts and right hands; Regal bringing the fight to Orton before Randy began to strike back with a kick to the gut and an inverted neckbreaker. Orton slowed down the pace, the "Legend Killer" manipulating Regal with an abdominal stretch applied, but Regal managed to fight back with some rights; a jawbreaker stunning Orton. Regal connected with the Regal Cutter, but only for a near fall, as it seemed William was looking to get a big victory against the new champion tonight; Orton however resiliently coming back with a powerslam, as well as a draping DDT - but Regal was able to kick out still. Orton went back for the sleeper, weakening Regal - who managed to stay in the fight; and Regal fired up with another stiff hand. Regal with a double underhook suplex, as well as the Regal-Plex, but for a near fall. The "Blackpool Brute" readied for a Knee Trembler, but Orton dodged it, then connected with a sudden RKO: another win for the champion!

Randy Orton (c) def. William Regal in 7:04 in a non-title match

"The Legend Killer" celebrated his win, and it appeared that ever since losing the Intercontinental Championship to Edge back at Vengeance in July, Orton was on a roll: Randy Orton, the winner of the number one contender's battle royal, crowned the youngest World Heavyweight Champion in history at SummerSlam against Chris Benoit, and then the night after as well - followed up tonight with a win against William Regal in a back and forth bout. Orton approached a recovering "Blackpool Brute" after the match, the "Legend Killer" perhaps looking to attack the Brit more, but instead - Orton offered Regal a handshake, which went accepted by Regal! Orton raised Regal's hand in victory before leaving: and it appeared that Orton has been going through changes since winning the title at SummerSlam.

But backstage, Triple H, Batista and Ric Flair - Orton's teammates in Evolution - were shown watching on a monitor in disapproval at Orton's shown respect towards William Regal, a recent enemy of Evolution...

The SmackDown! Rebound aired, taking us back to last Thursday night where Eddie Guerrero came to answer the call of Kurt Angle, who wanted to end the rivalry supposedly - which went fine, until Guerrero realized that he had been tricked, and that in the parking lot, Luther Reigns was vandalizing his lo rider. Eddie was rightly furious, and a match was made for later on in the night, where Reigns was able to steal the win after the assist from Kurt Angle. Rey Mysterio made the save, but backstage, Angle and Reigns jumped Mysterio - and next week, it will be Kurt Angle taking on Rey Mysterio. Meanwhile, the tension rose between John Bradshaw Layfield and The Undertaker - as, in a match where the Superstar's representative earned the right to name the stipulation for the No Mercy WWE Championship bout, Undertaker was able to overcome a returning Viscera, the "Deadman" making it official for No Mercy on October 3: a Casket match with the WWE Championship on the line!

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Back live on Monday Night RAW, Randy Orton was shown walking through the corridor - the World Heavyweight Champion having just endured a hard-hitting match with William Regal moments earlier. Orton entered the locker room of Evolution, where Triple H stood waiting with Ric Flair and Batista with him. The "Legend Killer" acted like nothing had happened that may have been wrong, whilst Triple H called him out on showing respecting Regal the way he did. But Orton told Triple H that he thought he deserved it, saying he was a hell of an opponent. Flair then brought up how he never shook one man's hand that he had fought against after a match - why? Because there's respect, and then there's winning. The "Nature Boy" contested that winning is so much better. Orton disputed this, but this is when things got heated, "the Game" stepping to Orton and getting in his face. Triple H told Orton that Evolution aside, and the World Heavyweight Championship aside: Orton showing respect the last few weeks to guys like Chris Benoit and William Regal is making him go down in the "Cerebral Assassin"s opinion. Evolution then walked out, leaving the "Legend Killer" alone with his respect.

Back in the Cow Palace, Jonathan Coachman was shown still in his gear, favoring his back after being beaten down by Rhyno and Tajiri in handicap action earlier tonight. The Coach talked about how Rhyno and Tajiri were cowards for attacking somebody like him - Coach stating he did not deserve what happened. But nonetheless, it was time for the $250,000 RAW Diva Search! Out came the surviving five contestants, with the contest having reached the halfway point in this contest. Amy Weber, Christy Hemme, Michelle McCool, Carmella DeCesare and Maria Kanellis then pranced out to the ring in bikinis, with the five Divas prepared for this week's challenge. Coach warned the contestants not to laugh and make fun of him after what happened last week where the Rock made a fool out of Coach and hijacked the contest. Coach started off by eliminating a Diva this week...in Michelle McCool! McCool appeared sad, but as Coach handed her the microphone to address her elimination, Michelle seemed poised and confident that she would come back - McCool promising the fans that she will return to Monday Night RAW. After McCool left, Coach allowed each Diva Search contestant to talk for 30 seconds about why they should win the Diva Search, and each took turns in saying what it would mean for them to win, all wanting to succeed as WWE Divas, and with $250,000. But Christy Hemme took it upon herself to bad mouth Carmella DeCesare - branding her as "c*m-guzzling guttersl*t"! It was bleeped out, and Coach seemed shocked by it, before wrapping up this week's contest - next week, we will see who goes home next, as four Divas survive in the RAW Diva Search!

Backstage, Lita was shown coming out of Kane's locker room, with the redhead newlywed leaning up against the door and looking extremely depressed about having been forced to marry the "Big Red Monster". Lita however then encountered Trish Stratus, Molly Holly, Gail Kim and Tyson Tomko - the Women's Champion sarcastically asking Lita how it was like with a big ugly man like Kane as her husband. She rubbed it in and made jokes asking about the honeymoon, and what it's like in the bedroom with him. Trish, Gail and Molly left for women's tag team action, whilst Lita watched them leave, in disgust for Trish - the Divas tag team bout coming up next!

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4. Victoria & Stacy Keibler vs Trish Stratus & Molly Holly (w/Gail Kim & Tyson Tomko)
With the Women's Championship match looming over in two weeks time at Unforgiven, Victoria and Trish Stratus both assembled teams for tag team action tonight in San Francisco, with Stacy Keibler by Victoria's side, whilst Trish had the assistance of Molly Holly - as well as Gail Kim and the "Problem Solver" Tyson Tomko. Victoria started off with her WrestleMania XX opponent Molly Holly, taking her down with little problem in the opening moments - Victoria with a leg drop and a hip attack taking Molly out to the floor. Victoria and Stacy seemed to be doing well early on, but Stacy got the tag and made a rookie error in combating the Women's Champion: Trish easily taking Stacy down and beginning to isolate her. Stratus choked her over the bottom rope and stomped away on her, whilst Molly got in and nearly got the win with a short-arm clothesline, Molly and Trish working well as a team in this scenario. Gail watched on from ringside, whilst Stacy struggled and struggled - Keibler actually able to kick Molly away at one point, but a tag attempt made went unnoticed by the referee, who was distracted by Gail Kim! Stratus made the tag with the referee's acknowledgement, and Trish came in, sweeping a win up after the Stratusfaction, picking up the win!

Trish Stratus & Molly Holly def. Victoria & Stacy Keibler in 4:23

The numbers game tactic of the Women's Champion and friends had worked well, as Trish Stratus' hand was raised in victory - Trish quickly dropkicking Victoria after the match! Trish, Molly and Gail Kim got inside to continue the attack on the number one contender; the Divas contingent continuing whilst Tyson Tomko watched on - but meanwhile the Mystery Woman showed up - this time chasing the Divas off, then diving at Tomko: the "Problem Solver" actually physically trying to fight the Woman, but the Mystery Woman connected with a dropkick, running Tomko away! The Mystery Woman was receiving "Stevie" chants, and Victoria looked confused and disturbed by the unknown Diva's presence.

In the backstage area Triple H was shown with Batista and Ric Flair in his ear - "the Game" preparing for battle with Eugene in no-disqualification action up next - but first, the "Nature Boy" was prepping Triple H up, telling him that they started the job at SummerSlam - and now it's time to put Eugene down once and for all. Flair and Batista said they had Hunter's back, but Triple H laughed to himself, saying if Randy Orton wanted no help the other week, then maybe he wouldn't need Evolution either...just to prove a point. Triple H smirked and walked away, ready for action.

Meanwhile, Eugene was readying himself, looking moderately nervous prior to battle. But first, William Regal had some advice for Eugene. Regal asked Eugene who manipulated him for months, who made them think they were his friend, just for their own personal reasons. Eugene said that Evolution did. Regal continued to prod Eugene with motivation, asking about who beat him down at SummerSlam, and who he nearly beat if it wasn't for William Regal. Eugene's face turned to rage, as Regal told Eugene that he'd have his support if need be. But suddenly Chris Benoit entered the frame, the "Rabid Wolverine" telling Eugene not to hold back, saying that nothing can stop him in no-disqualification. Benoit encouraged Eugene to get all of the anger off of his mind, which is when Eugene told Benoit and Regal that he was going to rip Triple H's head off tonight, before storming off. Regal and Benoit looked on like proud parents, egging Eugene on.

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5. No-Disqualification match: Eugene vs Triple H
Main event time on Monday Night RAW, as we had run through our final commercial break - it time to get down to brass tax, with the no-disqualification match coming up next. Triple H walked to the ring slowly, "the Game" stepping inside with a serious look of intent, Triple H even standing on the second rope and signalling that he would regain the World Heavyweight Championship from his protegé and ally in Evolution, Randy Orton - who he faces, alongside Chris Benoit in a triple threat match at Unforgiven in two weeks. On the contrary, Eugene came to the ring with a new look of focus, gritting his teeth ahead of this match. The confrontation began with Eugene rushing "the Game" and firing on all cylinders with rights and lefts - Eugene sending Triple H packing outside of the ring: Eugene continuing with more kicks and punches against the ringside barricade, a gorilla press slam sending the eight time World Heavyweight Champion chest first against the barricade! Eugene was on a roll as Triple H scurried inside, trying to crawl away from Eugene. Eugene followed, but Triple H was able to get back into things with a big low blow: all legal in no-disqualification! Triple H dropped Eugene with a DDT, then meticulously began to stomp Eugene's legs away, "the Game" beginning to take action now, as he worked over the legs of Eugene, in an attempt to slow the pace. And it was working - but Eugene suddenly came back, a spinebuster connecting! Eugene got up and caught Triple H with a Lou Thesz Press: Eugene pounding on Triple H some more. Eugene looked to follow by going for an elbow drop, but Hunter moved - and the "Cerebral Assassin" came off the ropes with a Harley Race high knee! Triple H pounded on Eugene, busting him open above the eye, and this is when "the Game" locked on an Indian Deathlock, looking to isolate Eugene, or make him tap out! Eugene was on the verge of submission, but Eugene was barely able to get to the ropes...but Triple H refused to break! No disqualifications allowed this, but Triple H eventually released the hold, thinking he'd gotten the special Eugene's legs weak enough to put him down for all. Triple H talked trash, holding Eugene up by the hair, telling Eugene he was going to end him here tonight - but Eugene delivered a big low blow in revenge, Triple H going down! Eugene came back, looking to end it with a Rock Bottom...but Batista and Ric Flair hit the ring! Batista got in and delivered a huge spinebuster to Eugene, whilst Flair grabbed a steel chair - Flair jabbing the leg of Eugene repeatedly, then going to apply the Figure-Four Leglock...but suddenly help came on the way!

Triple H vs Eugene fought to a no contest in 8:10 of a No-Disqualification match

Evolution had isolated Eugene and had him right where they wanted him, with Triple H stomping on Eugene with Ric Flair locking the Figure-Four Leglock on the poor man, but suddenly Chris Benoit and William Regal hit the ring, Benoit and Regal brawling with Triple H and Batista, as well as Ric Flair! The war was on between Evolution and the opposition - and that's when the World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton hit the ring, the "Legend Killer" in particular forcing Batista and Flair to back off...Orton suddenly dropping Benoit with an RKO however! Orton looked at Benoit with a concerned look on his face, whilst helping Triple H back up. Orton held Hunter's arm up high, the crowd booing this revelation...but Triple H then kicked Orton in the gut, and the Pedigree connected! Triple H stood tall, telling Orton that it was nothing personal...and signalling that he was looking to regain the World Heavyweight Championship in the triple threat main event, come Unforgiven! The relationship in Evolution was strained, as Monday Night RAW went off the air!