WWE 2011 - Era Of Awesome: RAW Online!

MONDAY NIGHT RAW; 21st FEBRUARY 2011


- Ezekial Jackson Defeated Tyson Kidd w/ Jackson Andrews & Nikki Bella
- Santino Marella, Vladamir Kozlov & Tamina Defeated The Uso’s & Maxine

Prior to the usual opening video a recap package is played highlighting the events of last nights Elimination Chamber pay per view. It switches from The Miz retaining the WWE Championship to John Cena becoming the number one contender to the WWE Championship inside the Elimination Chamber. It closes in the same way that last night’s pay per view closed – with the return of the great one, The Rock, and his staredown with John Cena.



“If You Smell... What The Rock... Is Cooking!”

Just like last night the entire audience erupt at the sound of this unforgettable music. It takes a few moments before The Rock explodes out onto the stage, making his way to the ring in his signature style. Entering the ring The Rock ascends the turnbuckle, throws his arm up and soaks in the atmosphere as the entire audience explodes yet again. The Rock is handed a microphone and has to wait for people to quieten down before speaking. The Rock starts off by saying that finally, he has come back to the WWE. The crowd go crazy again, The Rock grinning. The Rock says that when he turned on RAW recently he saw some Rock wannabe as the WWE Champion, flapping his gums about how he’s the greatest WWE Champion of all time. He says that he knew that he had to come back to remind every single one of his millions, and millions, of fans exactly why he is the most electrifying man in sports entertainment and maybe lay the smackdown on a few jabronies at the same time. Which is why he called Vince McMahon. The Rock says that he talked with McMahon and he told him that WrestleMania 27 needs that special something – it needs The Rock! The Rock shouts that you are looking at the host of WrestleMania 27 – the great one hosting the greatest show of them all! The crowd go crazy as The Rock promises that he is here to stay and that this will be the most electrifying road to WrestleMania in history.

“The Time Is Now”

John Cena makes his way out onto the ramp, getting a solid reaction from the audience at the prospect of seeing the The Rock and John Cena standing face to face. Hitting the ring Cena stands toe to toe with The Rock as he is passed a microphone. Cena says that he isn’t buying it, that The Rock has spent the past seven years in Hollywood, showing up every now and again whenever he feels like it. Cena says that this is just another opportunity of The Rock fitting WWE in between filming. The Rock tells Cena to watch his mouth but Cena tells The Rock that he can come here and try and fool all of these fans but that they, just like him, know better. John Cena tells The Rock that he can come here, he can host WrestleMania 27 but that they all know he’ll be off as soon as another film offer comes in. And when all is said and done and The Rock is off playing a fairy somewhere it will be John Cena who is sticking around putting everything he has into this company. Cena drops the microphone at the feet of The Rock and leaves, walking up the ramp while The Rock stares a hole in his back.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

THE MIZ w/ ALEX RILEY DEFEATED JUSTIN GABRIEL
After a solid showing last night inside the Elimination Chamber a bruised Justin Gabriel got another big opportunity as he squared off with the WWE Champion in singles action. Miz was pushed to the wall in this match but his resourcefulness meant he was always one step ahead of Gabriel and Alex Riley’s presence at ringside didn’t help Gabriel one bit. In a terrific bout between two young talents it was The Miz’s night as the Awesome One took victory following the Skull Crushing Finale.

We cut backstage where we spot Mr. McMahon, who later tonight will be making a big announcement regarding Triple H, talking with a group of technicians when he spots CM Punk entering the arena and shouts at him to stop. Punk seems amused that McMahon thinks he can just shout him down. McMahon tells CM Punk that since last night he’s had Randy Orton calling him, demanding something be done about the GTS Randy received after eliminating Punk from the Elimination Chamber match. CM Punk asks Vince where this is going and McMahon tells him that he should know damn well where this going, telling CM Punk that tonight’s main event will be CM Punk facing off with Randy Orton. Punk tells McMahon to watch his step because he wouldn’t want to anger his biggest star. Punk turns and walks off as we head to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A video package highlights last night’s triple threat Diva’s Championship match that saw Natalya successfully defend the title against both Beth Phoenix and Melina in a triple threat match. Six Diva’s tag team action is next!

NATALYA, EVE & BRIE BELLA DEFEATED MELINA, MARYSE & AJ
Melina just will not quit. One night after tapping out in the triple threat Diva’s Championship match she once again went after Natalya as part of the six Diva’s tag team match. But just like last night Melina came off on the losing end of things as Natalya made her tap to the Sharpshooter for a second night running.

We cut backstage where The Rock is walking through the backstage area, passing numerous WWE superstars all of whom welcome him back to the WWE. He eventually comes to a stop in front of The Miz and Alex Riley. The WWE Champion says he didn’t appreciate The Rock badmouthing him, saying that while he’s been off playing a tooth fairy The Miz has become the face of this company. The Rock tries saying something but Miz shouts that nobody interrupts him when he’s speaking, not even The Rock. Miz tells Rock that he may have been big back in the day but that he’s nothing but a has-been and that if he walks around here like he owns the place then he will make sure that he is nothing but a footnote in the history of The Miz. The Rock tells Miz that he’s got a big mouth and if he keeps talking then The Rock will stick his boot down his throat. Things are tense as the two stare each other down before Miz shoulder barges past him, Riley following closely behind. Rock stares at them as they leave as we cut to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A video package airs promoting the second member of the Hall of Fame class of 2011. Please welcome “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan to the WWE hall of fame.

We cut backstage where Scott Stanford is standing by with Randy Orton, who later on tonight will face off one on one with CM Punk. Stanford brings up CM Punk’s actions last night, delivering the GTS on Orton after Orton eliminated him. Randy snarls that last night CM Punk made the biggest mistake of his career when he cost him the chance to challenge for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 27. Orton continues by promising that after he gets his hands on Punk tonight he will ensure it is the last mistake he ever makes. Orton walks off, his short and sweet statement made loud and clear as we head back to ringside.

MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY w/ NEXUS DEFEATED JOHN MORRISON
Both of these men were on the losing end of huge matches last night and both were looking to pick up some of that lost momentum upon the road to WrestleMania. The Nexus was an ever present factor at ringside, interjecting themselves whenever Morrison started building up some momentum. Despite that Morrison came close to victory, going for Starship Pain only for Harris to distract the referee and Slater to grab his leg, Morrison getting hung up on the turnbuckle as McGillicutty drove his boot into Morrison’s skull. McGillicutty followed up with the McGillicutter for the victory.

We cut swiftly backstage where we see Mr. McMahon strutting through the corridors towards ringside. Mr. McMahon calls out Triple H next!

COMMERCIAL BREAK

“No Chance!”

Those two words blare out across the arena as the man synonymous with them, the WWE chairman Mr. McMahon, struts out onto the ramp and down towards the ring. McMahon steps into the ring, is handed a microphone and waits for the crowd to die down. Mr. McMahon says that earlier tonight The Rock returned and that while he would love for that to be the end of his business here tonight there is still something he has to do. McMahon proceeds to call out the RAW general manager Triple H, The Game making his way down to the ring. Triple H sombrely steps into the ring as McMahon shouts for him to be given a microphone. McMahon asks Triple H if he remembers the ultimatum he laid out. Triple H says he does and McMahon cuts him off, shouting that he remembers and yet instead of staying behind the desk where he could learn to run this company he went down to that ring last night and beat Sheamus so bad that the Celtic Warrior was unable to even make it here tonight. McMahon says he gave Triple H the opportunity as general manager on the condition that if he got involved in that ring then he was done.

Triple H shouts that he tried, that he stayed behind a computer screen to stop himself getting that itch to step back into the ring, that he let that weasel Michael Cole read off his e-mails every week so that he didn’t get the temptation. Triple H says that even when he had to step out from behind the computer screen he tried to stay backstage and that when Vince gave him the ultimatum that he was all ready to hang up his boots. But then Sheamus attacked Shawn Michaels and left him in the hospital. In that moment Sheamus disrespected Michaels and in turn he disrespected Triple H and because of that he doesn’t care what Vince says or does because he is going to destroy that pale faced ginger haired freak! The crowd cheer as Triple H makes his intentions perfectly clear. Mr. McMahon shakes his head and says that it looks like Triple H has made his choice and because of that he has no other option but to relieve Triple H of his duties as RAW general manager. The crowd boo as Vince ensures them that he isn’t finished. Vince reiterates that he is relieving Triple H of his general manager duties, but that he is reinstating him as a member of the active competitor. McMahon says that Triple H is right, that while he may not like Shawn Michaels he respects him and when Sheamus put his hands on him, when Sheamus put his hands on a retired soon-to-be hall of famer, he disrespected the WWE. In turn he disrespected Vince McMahon and nobody disrespects Vince McMahon. McMahon says that since there isn’t a general manager right now that he will be handling things and his first order of business is to book a match – Triple H vs. Sheamus at WrestleMania 27 – in a Street Fight. Triple H grins as McMahon tells him to end Sheamus, the pair shaking hands over this blockbuster announcement as we head to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A graphic shows that still to come tonight is our huge main event. Randy Orton faces off against CM Punk – tonight!

Speaking of CM Punk we open up in the backstage area where the Straight Edge Messiah is walking through the corridors. Scott Stanford stops him, asking if he can get a few words with him ahead of his match with Randy Orton tonight. Punk smirks, telling Stanford that he wouldn’t want to spoil what he is going to do to Orton tonight. Punk turns and enters a locker room, the camera zooming in on the Nexus symbol on the door.

UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
DANIEL BRYAN [C] DEFEATED EVAN BOURNE
Two of RAW’s most exciting and beloved prospects stood toe to toe in a clash for the United States Championship. With the belt on the line both men fought it out aggressively, throwing everything they’ve got at each other to the point that it was surprising either could even walk. Daniel Bryan focused on the legs, hitting Bourne with vicious kicks and submission holds trying to ensure he couldn’t hit any of his aerial offense. It certainly slowed Bourne down, enough so that when he went up top for the Shooting Star Press Bryan had the time to flip up, leap onto the turnbuckle and hit Bourne with a top rope Belly to Belly suplex. Bourne was then easy pickings for the LeBelle Lock as Bryan picked up the submission victory.

Daniel Bryan gets to his feet and is immediately caught off guard by a clothesline to the back of the head, courtesy of Ted DiBiase who has appeared out of nowhere, his arm seemingly healed enough for him to begin smashing away at Bryan with punches. DiBiase grabs Bryan, throwing him out of the ring. Following him outside DiBiase grabs Bryan, throwing him into the side of the announce table, screaming that he is going to make Bryan hurt just like Daniel Bryan made him hurt. DiBiase proceeds to grab Bryan and ram him head first into the steel steps. DiBiase takes a few steps back as Bryan drops down, sitting against the steps. With a demented look in his eye DiBiase screams and charges, slamming his boot into the skull of Daniel Bryan against the steel steps to the horror of the fans. As referees and medics rush the ring and pull Ted DiBiase back Daniel Bryan slumps to the ground unconscious. DiBiase stars laughing as the medics check on the United States Champion, RAW cutting to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

RANDY ORTON DEFEATED CM PUNK via DQ
When you talk about the most cold and calculating man in the WWE then both CM Punk and Randy Orton come up in the conversation. Both men know how to psychologically control a match and this one seemed to be about who could do that better, both CM Punk and Randy Orton targeting any potential mistake in order to get the victory. Orton took control early on, unleashing a torrent of furious offense on Punk, wanting revenge for his actions inside the Elimination Chamber. Punk managed to catch Orton off guard with a dropkick to the knee and from there Punk just worked away at the limb, looking to immobilise him. The back and forth continued until CM Punk went for the GTS, only for Orton to slip out and connect with the RKO. Before he could go for the cover however Husky Harris appeared, attacking Orton from behind causing the disqualification.

The crowd are a little confused but there’s no time for that as Michael McGillicutty and Heath Slater join in the attack, the three Nexus members doing a number on Orton before the Apex Predator of the WWE begins fighting back, Orton knocking Husky Harris and McGillicutty back before hitting Slater with the RKO. With Punk still down it looks like Orton may make it out of this but as he turns to leave the ring he is nailed by a huge Lariat out of nowhere. The WWE Universe are in shock as we turn to see Skip Sheffield, who has been out of action since August. Sheffield pulls Orton up and proceeds to hit the Backpack Stunner as Husky and McGillicutty help CM Punk and Heath Slater up onto their feet. Punk grins as Sheffield once again pulls Orton up, throwing him towards Punk as the Straight Edge Messiah proceeds to deliver the GTS. As the WWE Universe watch on in stunned silence CM Punk is handed a Nexus armband which he proceeds to put on. Nexus, now joined by both CM Punk and the returning Skip Sheffield, raise each other’s arms before Sheffield lifts Punk up onto his shoulder, Nexus standing over the unconscious Randy Orton as RAW goes off the air.

- The Rock’s return has been in the pipeline since as early as Summerslam. Talks have been ongoing for the past few months about how The Rock would return for the company, with the obvious idea being that he would be the special guest host at WrestleMania 27. It is expected for The Rock to get heavily involved in the build up to John Cena vs. The Miz, which many are pegging to be the final match on at the pay per view.

- CM Punk becoming the new leader of Nexus was decided a few weeks prior to his return. The WWE were very high on Punk’s work back when he was leading the Straight Edge Society and felt that he would be the best possible choice to lead the faction. In relation to the Nexus Skip Sheffield was only cleared for action a few days after the Royal Rumble. Original plans called for Mason Ryan to be called up to the main roster to join the group but with Sheffield getting medical clearance to compete it was felt that he would be a better choice.

- In relation to Nexus there are currently plans for an eight man tag team match to be contested at WrestleMania 27 pitting the group against members of the RAW roster, likely led by John Morrison.

- This Friday’s SmackDown main event will pit World Heavyweight Champion Edge against Wade Barrett. Also taped for the show is Alberto Del Rio vs. Kofi Kingston and an Intercontinental Championship match between Cody Rhodes and Kaval.

FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN; 25th FEBRUARY 2011


- Kelly Kelly Defeated Naomi
- Trent Barretta & JTG Defeated Curt Hawkins & Chavo Guerrero

Prior the usual opening video package we get a highlights package of the Sunday night’s Elimination Chamber pay per view. It focuses on Edge retaining the World Heavyweight Championship before being attacked by Jack Swagger, who announced he would challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania.



We head to our announce team of Michael Cole, Josh Matthews and Booker T. Cole spends the first few moments mocking Booker for the beating he received at the hands of Mark Henry on Sunday, saying that it’s the first good thing Matt Striker has ever done. They proceed to run down tonight’s card featuring Alberto Del Rio vs. Kofi Kingston, an Intercontinental Championship bout between Cody Rhodes and Kaval and a big main event pitting Edge against Wade Barrett. They are soon cut off by the music of Jack Swagger, who Sunday night made a very strong announcement about facing Edge at the Elimination Chamber.

The 2011 Royal Rumble winner Jack Swagger hits the ring to a chorus of boos. The All American Sensation begins talking about how Sunday night at the Elimination Chamber he not only defeated Rey Mysterio but he left World Heavyweight Champion Edge lying in the middle of the ring. Swagger says that people should get used to that sight because it is what everybody is going to witness in five weeks at WrestleMania 27. Swagger says that when he won the Royal Rumble everyone called it a fluke, but shouted that anybody who wants to say that now can step into this ring and he will break their ankle! This brings out the World Heavyweight Champion himself, Edge hitting the ring. Swagger is ready to fight but Edge tells him not to worry, he isn’t here to kick his ass despite the fact that he deserves it. Edge says he is actually out here to congratulate him, because Jack Swagger did something not many people have done – they caught the ultimate opportunist off guard. Edge says that Swagger got lucky Sunday night but that it won’t happen again – not on SmackDown, and not at WrestleMania. Swagger asks him if he is sure about that as Wade Barrett slides in the ring behind Edge and attacks him. Swagger slides out of the ring as Edge quickly gets the upper hand, throwing Barrett over the top rope and crushing to the floor below. SmackDown heads to commercials as Edge shouts at Swagger to get into the ring and face him like a man.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

ALBERTO DEL RIO w/ RICARDO RODRIGUEZ DEFEATED KOFI KINGSTON
In a clash between two men who competed inside the Elimination Chamber this past Sunday the Mexican Aristocrat battled the controlled frenzy of Kofi Kingston. A perfectly timed back and forth match ensued as Kingston came close to picking up a big win against one of the fastest rising stars in the WWE. The close saw Kingston ready to hit Trouble In Paradise when Ricardo Rodriguez grabbed his leg from outside the ring. Kingston kicked him off by the distraction gave Del Rio the time to catch his breath as he delivered a boot to the gut followed by the Rolling Armbar to take the victory.

Alberto Del Rio shouts at Rodriguez to pass him something which quickly turns out to be a steel chair, Del Rio looking to send a message here tonight on SmackDown. No message will be sent however as suddenly Christian, the man who Del Rio put out of action months ago and tried doing so again inside the Chamber, sprints to the ring. Christian ducks under a steel chair swing, kicking Del Rio in the family jewels before delivering the Killswitch. Christian picks up the steel chair but before any real damage can be done Ricardo Rodriguez pulls Del Rio out of the ring, the Mexican Aristocrat managing to make an escape up the ramp as Christian shouts that he is coming for Del Rio.

A video package airs promoting the second member of the Hall of Fame class of 2011. Please welcome “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan to the WWE Hall of Fame.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

BETH PHOENIX DEFEATED LAYLA w/ MICHELLE MCCOOL
The Glamazon strikes again. Clearly unhappy at having come up empty handed during the triple threat Diva’s Championship match on Sunday night Beth was in a forceful mood tonight, punishing Layla and Michelle McCool when she attempted to interfere. It wasn’t long before the Glam Slam put Layla away giving Beth the win as the Glamazon signalled that she still wanted the Diva’s Championship.

We head backstage where Todd Grisham is standing by with one of SmackDown’s newest stars Wade Barrett. Grisham says that last night Wade Barrett came so close to winning the World Heavyweight Championship, being the last man eliminated inside the Elimination Chamber, but that tonight he gets a chance to face off with World Heavyweight Champion Edge. Barrett talks about how he came over to SmackDown because he wants to be World Heavyweight Champion and that after just three weeks he was so close to doing that. Barrett promises that his success so far is just the beginning because by the end of 2011 he will be World Heavyweight Champion and that tonight he defeats the World Heavyweight Champion within an inch of his life. Barrett walks off as we cut away.

A graphic highlights that after the COMMERCIAL BREAK Cody Rhodes will defend the Intercontinental Championship against the Warrior Kaval.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

We return to SmackDown to the music of Dolph Ziggler as the self proclaimed perfect one makes his way down to ringside. Ziggler joins the commentary team for the forthcoming Intercontinental Championship, mentioning how Ziggler stole his spot inside the Elimination Chamber and that he intends to pay him back.

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION CODY RHODES DEFEATED KAVAL
A new look, new style Cody Rhodes came into this match looking to let off some steam after coming up empty handed inside the Elimination Chamber, however Kaval probably wasn’t the best choice to do that. The Warrior fought this match with such ferocity and speed that it was surprising Rhodes could even stand after all the offence focused on his knees. Rhodes fought back showing off the vicious streak that he has developed in the past few weeks. In the end an attempted distraction by Dolph Ziggler backfired, Kaval knocking him off the apron and Rhodes hitting Kaval with Cross-Rhodes to take the victory.

Following the match Dolph Ziggler rolls into the ring and goes after Cody Rhodes, the two brawling around the ring. Kaval recovers and tries taking out both men and while he is initially successful he is quickly overwhelmed, as Rhodes and Ziggler find neutral ground in beating on the world warrior. Suddenly rescue comes in the form of Rey Mysterio, the master of the 619 charging down the ramp and springboarding into the ring, hitting a hurricanrana on Rhodes who went flying under the bottom rope. Mysterio ducked under a clothesline from Ziggler, drop toe holding him onto the middle rope and connecting with the 619, Ziggler dropping to the mat where Kaval followed up with the Ghetto Stomp. Mysterio and Kaval stare down Rhodes as he backs up the ramp, SmackDown cutting away.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

We head backstage where Todd Grisham is standing by with Christian. Grisham asks Christian about attacking Alberto Del Rio earlier tonight, Christian reminding us that it was Del Rio that put him on the shelf. Christian says that Del Rio injured him and walked around bragging about it, he walked around like it was the greatest achievement possible. Christian says that Del Rio wasn’t happy with simply injuring Christian once, but that he had to try and do it again in the Elimination Chamber Sunday night. Christian says that sitting on the sidelines is the worst feeling for a professional wrestler and that Alberto Del Rio obviously doesn’t understand that feeling, but that when Christian gets through with him he will, because it will be Del Rio who has to go through surgery, it will be Del Rio who to go through hours of physiotherapy and it will be Del Rio who has to watch as pathetic little punks try and steal his spotlight. Christian challenges Del Rio to meet him in the ring next week before walking off as we return to ringside.

BIG SHOW DEFEATED DREW MCINTYRE
For weeks now Drew McIntyre has been trying to get rid of Vickie Guerrero but the one time she doesn’t make an appearance the chosen one fails to take the victory. Obvious link much? Big Show was on dominant form here and not even a surprise appearance by Diesel on the ramp could throw him off his game as Show connected with the Knockout Punch to take the victory. Big Show and Diesel stare each other down following the match.

We cut backstage where Matt Striker is shown talking with Mark Henry. Michael Cole takes great pleasure in reminding us of the beating that Booker T received at the Elimination Chamber at the hands of Mark Henry. Josh Matthews says that later tonight Matt Striker will talk on his new alliance with Mark Henry, as the World’s Strongest Man will be in action!

COMMERCIAL BREAK

We cut backstage to Todd Grisham nervously standing by with the intense Tyler Reks. Grisham reminds us of Reks assault on Kane last week, pointing out that Kane was unable to make it to SmackDown tonight because of that assault. Grisham asks Reks why he attacked Kane to which Reks repeats the question to himself. Reks says that he did it for many reasons, because attacking Kane represented all the things that he loves – destruction, violence, pain. Reks says that Kane was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, and that nobody is safe now that he has finally tasted such brutality. Grisham says that by order of Theodore Long Tyler Reks will face Kane next week on SmackDown. Reks says good, but that everybody should savour the match because it will be the last time you ever see Kane inside a WWE ring. Reks walks off, leaving Grisham perturbed, as we head to ringside.

The music of the World’s Strongest Man hits as Mark Henry makes his way to ringside along with Matt Striker. Striker takes a microphone and begins talking, taunting Booker T and telling him that if he proved one thing Sunday night it’s that maybe Booker should stay behind the announce table because he clearly isn’t talented enough to be inside a WWE ring with the genius that is Matt Striker. Striker says that when he got kicked off the announce team he was initially devastated, but then he started seeing it as what it was – an opportunity. An opportunity to go back to what makes him such a benefit to this company – his brains. Striker says that he is the smartest man in the WWE and because of that he recognises great talent. Striker says that Mark Henry is the World’s Strongest Man, that he is a potential marketing phenomenon, but that he has been held back because the WWE brass never got behind him. Striker says that with his brains behind him Mark Henry will be an unstoppable force. He ends by saying this is just the beginning before the music of Mark Henry’s opponent for the night, Chris Masters, hits.

MARK HENRY w/ MATT STRIKER DEFEATED CHRIS MASTERS
Whether you are the Masterpiece or not when you step into the ring with a reinvigorated World’s Strongest Man you need to be prepared to get hurt. In a dominant display of strength Mark Henry simply overpowered Chris Masters, forcefully breaking the Masterlock and hitting the World’s Strongest Slam to take the victory.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A video package airs promoting WrestleMania 27, live on pay per view in just thirty seven days time. It promotes the World Heavyweight Championship bout between Edge and Jack Swagger, as well as the events special guest host – The Rock!

Prior to the main event the 2011 Royal Rumble winner Jack Swagger, who will challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 27, makes his way to ringside, joining the commentary team to scout out his WrestleMania opponent Edge.

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION EDGE DEFEATED WADE BARRETT
You can be as arrogant and confident as you want outside of the ring, but when you step inside the squared circle with the World Heavyweight Champion you better be sure that you can back it up. On this occasion Wade Barrett did, taking Edge to the limit and nearly picking up the victory a number of times. Of course you can’t settle for nearly in a match against Edge, the Rated R Superstar looking to send a message to Jack Swagger at ringside as he put on a solid performance, eventually slipping out of Wasteland and hitting the Spear for the victory.

Following the match Jack Swagger leaves the commentary table and slides into the ring behind Edge, tackling him to the ground. The two begin unloading on each other with rights and lefts, rolling out of the ring to the outside where the brawl reaches the ramp. Referees and security rush to the ring to break it up as inside the ring Wade Barrett reaches his feet. Suddenly the lights go out in the arena and a very familiar gong rings out. A bolt of lightning strikes the ring and the lights flicker back on, The Undertaker standing across the ring from Wade Barrett, Taker doing his cutthroat taunt. Barrett freaks out but isn’t quick enough to go anywhere as Undertaker scoops him up, delivering the Tombstone Piledriver to Barrett. The crowd are going crazy as Taker does his signature taunt over an unconscious Barrett. SmackDown goes off the air with the sight of the returning Undertaker standing tall in the centre of the ring.

- World Wrestling Entertainment held a big press conference over in Mexico City on Friday featuring Triple H, Jim Ross and Rey Mysterio. It was announced that Mexican legend Mistico has signed a deal with WWE. Mysterio put over how Mistico is one of the biggest names in Lucha Libre and that he can’t wait to square up with him in the ring, while Triple H and Jim Ross put him over as a massive acquisition for the company. It is currently expected for Mistico to head to FCW to adjust to the WWE style before debuting on WWE TV under a different name. Mistico’s signing is seen as a big deal as Triple H personally lobbied for him to be signed.

- The big news from SmackDown last night is of course the return of The Undertaker. It appears that the WWE will be picking up on his exit angle involving the Nexus as Undertaker attacked Barrett to close the show. There were rumours of a big angle for Undertaker heading into WrestleMania 27 and it appears that it will be with Barrett. Some sources are saying that there have been talks of The Undertaker retiring this year and that his match with Barrett may be his final one.

- WWE and Syfy announced this week that NXT will be returning to the network on the fifth of April. The network has been pushing hard to renew WWE SmackDown to a long term deal due to its ratings success and WWE saw it as an opportunity to throw NXT into the deal. The show will be going off air for the forthcoming month before returning with season five. WWE are promoting it as featuring eight new WWE rookies, although that could of course change prior to the show’s taping.

- In other NXT news Brodus Clay became the fourth season’s fourth elimination this week due to Curtis’s immunity. It is highly expected for Clay to head up to the main roster to work alongside Alberto Del Rio, possibly as soon as in the build up to WrestleMania with Del Rio’s feud with Christian. WWE see Clay as a potential star of the future to replace the likes of Big Show and Kane when they eventually retire.

- Currently advertising for this weeks live edition of RAW is another appearance by The Rock, a statement by WWE Champion The Miz and a main event featuring the in ring return of Triple H against the new leader of Nexus, CM Punk.

MONDAY NIGHT RAW; 28th FEBRUARY 2011



- Ezekial Jackson Defeated Jackson Andrews w/ Tyson Kidd & Nikki Bella
- R-Truth Defeated William Regal



We head to our announce team of Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler as they welcome us to Monday Night RAW. They mention the shocking actions last week CM Punk was unveiled as the new leader of Nexus. They announce that tonight’s huge main event will be CM Punk taking on Triple H who will be competing in his first singles match since April of last year. Before they can continue they are cut off by the music of CM Punk as the Straight Edge Messiah hits the ring flanked by the Nexus.

CM Punk, backed up by the entire Nexus including Skip Sheffield who made a big return last week, begins bragging about how last week he got one over Randy Orton. Punk says he outsmarted Orton because not only is he the most talented wrestler on the RAW roster but he’s also the smartest and the purest. Punk goes on to explain that the Nexus have the talent but not the leadership required to be a success. He says that they realized this and came to Punk because they know he is a true leader and that he will be the man who leads them to greatness. Punk says that Husky Harris and Michael McGillicutty are more than capable of eclipsing their families legacies, that Heath Slater could be one of the most charismatic stars in history and that Skip Sheffield has the power to be one of the most dominant wrestlers in the WWE. CM Punk promises that under his tutelage the entire WWE will be theirs. Punk is about to continue when...

”Time To Play The Game

CM Punk’s opponent tonight makes his way out onto the stage, microphone in hand. Punk invites Triple H down to the ring but The Game laughs, saying that he’s been in this business a long time and that he isn’t stupid. Triple H tells Punk that he can talk all he likes about being the best but that tonight he is going to use Punk as practice for his WrestleMania match against Sheamus. Triple H tells Punk that he can bring all the help he wants to the ring but that it won’t do him any good because Triple H has some help of his own. Out of nowhere the crowd explode as Randy Orton slides into the ring behind Nexus, spinning Slater around and hitting him with the RKO! Before the rest of Nexus can react Orton slides back out and heads up the ramp, staring intently at Punk who is going crazy in the ring. We cut to commercials with Punk and Orton staring each other down while Triple H watches from the ramp with a smirk.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & HUSKY HARRIS W/ SKIP SHEFFIELD DEFEATED JOHN MORRISON & JUSTIN GABRIEL
A reinvigorated Nexus, thanks to the new leadership of CM Punk, came into this match against two men who have had problems with Nexus, John Morrison and Justin Gabriel. The spectacular styling of Gabriel and Morrison provided a great match for the more grounded technique of the Nexus. In the end it took an assist by Skip Sheffield for the Nexus to take the victory, as he hit a vicious lariat on the outside of the ring to Morrison, rolling him back in for McGillicutty to make the pinfall.

We head backstage where Scott Stanford is standing by with Ted DiBiase. Stanford asks DiBiase about his vicious attack on Daniel Bryan last week, the United States Champion unable to appear on RAW tonight because of it. DiBiase is silent for a minute, before saying that one month ago Daniel Bryan tried breaking his arm, that one month ago Daniel Bryan attempted to take away his livelihood. He asks whether people really thought he would stand idly by and let Daniel Bryan get away with it. No, DiBiase is going to make Daniel Bryan pay, he is going to make him feel all the pain that he felt when he ripped the nerves in his arm and shoulder. DiBiase says that Daniel Bryan has awakened him, and that the greatest mistake he ever made, not putting DiBiase down for good, will be the final thing he ever remembers.

We cut to the front of the arena where a limo pulls up. From the back steps the special guest host of WrestleMania, The Rock! We cut to commercials as The Rock enters the arena, business picking up on RAW tonight.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

BETH PHOENIX, KELLY KELLY & KAITLYN DEFEATED MARYSE, MELINA & AJ
The road to WrestleMania is heating up for the Diva’s division. With Diva’s Champion Natalya working commentary this was a chance for all six of these Diva’s to make an impact. AJ continues to impress as the former NXT rookie nearly took the victory with a perfect Shining Wizard on Kelly Kelly, only to turn into the Glam Slam from Beth Phoenix as the Glamazon got the pinfall for the SmackDown Diva’s.

As Beth Phoenix, Kelly Kelly and Kaitlyn celebrate the victory Diva’s Champion Natalya gets up from the commentary table and is handed a microphone. Natalya congratulates the SmackDown Diva’s on the victory, in particular Beth Phoenix. Natalya points out that there is no number one contender to the Diva’s Championship and that she fully intends to be competing on the grandest stage of them all. Natalya says that she spoke with Vince McMahon last week and that he agreed that the Diva’s should be in action, and that next week on RAW all of the Diva’s will be in action in a massive cross brand battle royal to determine the challenger to her Diva’s Championship at WrestleMania 27! Natalya holds the title up while all six of the Diva’s involved in this match focus on her following the announcement.

We head backstage where WWE Champion The Miz, along with Alex Riley, is marching towards the ring side area. Scott Stanford runs up to him, asking if the rumours are true and that he is intending to call The Rock out. The Miz tells Stanford to watch and see as he continues on his way to the ring. The Miz speaks – next!

COMMERCIAL BREAK

RAW returns with the music of The Miz blaring out as the WWE Champion makes his way to the ring, suited up and flanked by Alex Riley, to a lot of heat from the crowd. Miz hits the ring and demands that the fans show him some respect and shut their mouths, which just garners more heat. Miz says that all anybody has spoken about for the past week is The Rock. The Rock this and The Rock that and yadda yadda yadda and that he’s sick of it. The Miz says that it’s as if people have forgotten who is holding the WWE Championship, about who is the most watched WWE Champion of all time. Miz says that The Rock is only back because he realized that there was finally somebody who was going to take his place as the greatest WWE superstar ever but that it’s too late, because he is already better than The Rock will ever be!

“If You Smell... What The Rock... Is Cooking!”

The crowd explode as the great one himself makes his way out onto the ramp before heading to the ring, The Miz furious about being interrupted. The Rock enters the ring and is quickly handed a microphone as The Miz screams that this is his time and that nobody interrupts him. The Rock asks if that’s what he thinks before Miz can answer Rock interrupts with “It doesn’t matter what you think!”, the crowd loving every second of The Rock’s appearance here. The Rock says that he understands that The Miz likes to run his mouth, admitting that all the best do, but that there is a difference between The Miz and the likes of The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels – they could all back it up when it counted. Miz points out that he is the WWE Champion but The Rock says that the only thing he has seen Miz do with that title is tarnish it by cheating. The Rock tells The Miz that until he can prove himself capable of winning fair and square then he doesn’t deserve to be the WWE Champion. The Rock says that it’s a sad day when either a loud mouth reality star or a multi coloured fake rapper will walk out of WrestleMania 27 as WWE Champion, bringing out...

“The Time Is Now”

...The Miz’s opponent at WrestleMania 27, John Cena! Cena quickly hits the ring and is handed a microphone, the excitement in this arena echoing from the fans. John Cena states that it was all fine and dandy watching The Rock and The Miz’s back and forth, in fact it was kind of fun, but then The Rock had to bring him into it. Cena repeats what he says last week, saying that while The Rock was off dressed as a fairy it was Cena that was entertaining these fans, it was Cena who gave his sweat, blood and tears for the WWE Universe. The Miz cuts in, shouting “Boo-Hoo”, and screaming that nobody cares about Cena. Miz says that while John Cena was walking around acting like superman that he lost what he was aiming for – the fans respect. The Miz says the fans don’t respect Cena, that the fans don’t respect The Rock, but that they damn well respect him. The Miz says that while The Rock and John Cena kissed ass to get where they are today he did it all through hard work. Miz says that when he came here people thought he was just some jumped up reality star but that he proved them all wrong and that he is now the must-see superstar for Monday Night RAW. The Rock goes to speak but Miz cuts him off, saying that he is done with talking before Alex Riley, who has been silent throughout all of this, suddenly jumps Cena. Cena fights him off, sending him into The Rock who nails Riley with a Rock Bottom to the delight of the fans but that delight is cut short when Cena turns and is blasted in the skull by the WWE Championship, The Miz slamming the title into Cena’s head. Cena drops to the mat like a fly as Miz quickly slides under the bottom rope and up the ramp. The Miz holds up the WWE Championship as The Rock simply stares at him, the camera turning to John Cena out cold after being struck by the WWE Championship as we cut to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A recap package airs of the events preceding the commercial break featuring a standoff between WWE Champion The Miz, John Cena and The Rock. While it started off as a war of words it ended with The Miz striking John Cena with the WWE Championship and making a quick escape, getting one over on his WrestleMania 27 opponent here tonight.

We head backstage where Randy Orton is lacing his boots intending to be at ringside for Triple H’s match against CM Punk tonight. Suddenly he is blindsided from behind by Skip Sheffield who throws him into a crate. Michael McGillicutty, Husky Harris and Heath Slater appear, joining in on the beatdown as the four Nexus members put the boots into Randy Orton, Sheffield eventually finishing it off by lifting Orton up and press slamming him straight on top of the crate. CM Punk walks into the scene, slapping Orton in the face and telling him to pick his battles more wisely in future as medics rush to the scene, Orton having been eliminated from the equation tonight as we return to ringside.

WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS THE USO’S w/ MAXINE DEFEATED DAVID HART SMITH & PRIMO
For the past few months The Uso’s have been dominant in every match they have competed in and tonight was no difference. David Hart Smith & Primo have teamed a few times on Superstars but they were no match for the tag team champions tonight, The Uso’s systematically taking them apart before Jimmy Uso got the pinfall on Primo following the Samoan Splash.

The ring bell signals but it makes little difference to The Uso’s as they continue beating down on David Hart Smith and Primo. The beatdown continues until Santino Marella and Vladamir Kozlov, who are still waiting on their rematch for the tag straps, and Tamina make the save. Kozlov blasts Jimmy Uso with a belly to belly suplex while Tamina clotheslines Maxine out of the ring. Santino grabs Jey’s leg as he goes for a superkick and delivers a kick to the groin before hitting Jey with the Cobra! The Uso’s groggily make their way up the ramp as Tamina is handed a microphone, shouting that next week Santino and Kozlov will be cashing in on their rematch for the titles! The Uso’s look furious but are too beat up to do anything about it as we head to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A video package promotes the third entries into the Hall of Fame’s class of 2011. Please welcome Road Warrior Hawk, Road Warrior Animal and Paul Ellering, the Legion of Doom, into the WWE class of 2011!

TED DIBIASE DEFEATED EVAN BOURNE
Ted DiBiase has issues. One month after having his arm nearly broken by Daniel Bryan DiBiase returned to action and having brutally assaulted Daniel Bryan last week he looked to do the same to Bourne tonight. That’s a task easier said than done however as the fast paced high flying style of Evan Bourne made a good match for DiBiase’s new ruthless style. The match seemed evenly matched before the fight went outside and DiBiase caught Bourne with a drop toe hold sending him face first into the steel steps. From there DiBiase mercilessly worked away at Bourne, eventually putting him away with Dream Street.

The referee holds Ted DiBiase’s arm up but he grabs the referee by the throat and throws him out of the ring. Not content with the damage he has already caused DiBiase exits the ring, grabbing the timekeepers chair and folding it up as he slides back into the ring. DiBiase holds the chair up high but suddenly Daniel Bryan appears, the United States Champion sprinting to the ring to make the save. As Bryan slides into the ring DiBiase swings the chair at him, Daniel Bryan managing to duck under it, hitting the ropes and blasting DiBiase with a low dropkick. DiBiase drops to one knee as Daniel Bryan follows up with a stiff kick to the side of DiBiase’s head, Ted DiBiase sent rolling under the bottom rope. Daniel Bryan proceeds to check on Evan Bourne while DiBiase backs up the ramp holding his jaw as RAW goes to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A video package airs promoting WrestleMania 27, hyping up the event as the biggest show in sports entertainment. It focuses heavily on The Rock as the special guest host, as well as the WWE Championship match between The Miz and John Cena.

TRIPLE H DEFEATED CM PUNK w/ NEXUS WENT TO A NO CONTEST
One of the biggest legends in the WWE clashed with a new style of cutting edge superstar here as The Game battled the Straight Edge Messiah in RAW’s main event. With Randy Orton having been taken out of the equation with a brutal attack earlier tonight it was left to Triple H to not only deal with CM Punk but the Nexus at ringside, a difficult task even for the thirteen time world champion. Despite this Triple H kept himself in the match by keeping it to the ring, even taking out Husky Harris and Heath Slater when they tried interfering. Triple H looked to have the match won when he set Punk up for the Pedigree but Punk was able to counter the move and slid out of the ring. Standing with the Nexus Punk refused to get back into the ring, instead signalling for Triple H to turn around. Confused, Triple H did so and was the victim of a Brogue Kick from Sheamus!

The sudden attack by Sheamus has left the referee with no choice but to throw the match out, but neither Sheamus or CM Punk seem to care. Punk leads the Nexus back up the ramp, having no interest in involving himself in Sheamus and Triple H’s war. Sheamus pulls Triple H up onto his feet, whipping him into the ropes and catching him on the return with a second Brogue Kick, damn near taking The Game’s head off. Triple H drops to the mat, Sheamus screaming that at WrestleMania his career is over. RAW goes off the air with Sheamus standing tall over Triple H having gotten the better of his long time nemesis here tonight.

WWE NXT SEASON FOUR, ‘FINALE’; 1st MARCH 2011

Following the opening video package we head to the ring where our hosts for tonight, Todd Grisham and Maryse, welcome us to the season finale of NXT Season Four! Tonight either Derrick Bateman or Johnny Curtis will win NXT Season Four and in turn a guaranteed WWE contract and a WWE Tag Team title shot with their pro in the future. On top of that tonight the former four rookies from this season will compete in a fatal four way match while we will also see a six pro tag team match! Todd Grisham brings up the return of NXT to the Syfy network, with Season Five debuting on the fifth of April with eight new rookies fighting it out for a guaranteed WWE contract. Maryse says that the rookies will be revealed in the forthcoming weeks on both RAW and SmackDown but for now we’re going to get the action underway.

BRODUS CLAY DEFEATED BYRON SAXTON, CONOR O’BRIAN & JACOB NOVAK
All four of these rookies were given a second chance to impress here tonight with it being mentioned that both SmackDown general manager Theodore Long and WWE chairman Mr. McMahon were keeping tabs on the show. While everyone looked to impress Brodus Clay was the obvious standout, his power and size enough to take apart all three opponents. While Saxton ended up building a lot of momentum towards the end he ended up getting crushed by Clay’s running crossbody, dubbed the Fall of Humanity, to give Clay the pinfall victory.

We cut backstage where Derrick Bateman is sitting in his locker room getting a pep talk from United States Champion Daniel Bryan. Bryan tells Bateman that he has been a good student and that he needs to use everything that he taught him to beat Johnny Curtis tonight. Bateman says that he is a lock to win NXT Season Four tonight, saying that he’s twice the wrestler, and the man, that Johnny Curtis is. Bateman tells Bryan that he loves him, that the ladies love him and that more importantly the fans love him. Daniel Bryan tells him that confidence is good before giving him a playful slap and warning him the arrogance isn’t. Bryan tells Bateman to focus on winning tonight and to let the fans make their votes. Bryan heads towards ringside for the six-pro tag team match, leaving Bateman to pump himself up.

A video package plays hyping NXT Season Five, debuting exclusively on the SyFy network on the fifth of April. It hypes that eight rookies will fight for a guaranteed WWE contract, as well as a title match of their choosing.

ALBERTO DEL RIO, TED DIBIASE & DOLPH ZIGGLER DEFEATED UNITED STATES CHAMPION DANIEL BRYAN, R-TRUTH & CHRIS MASTERS
The six pro’s for NXT Season Four clashed in six man tag team action and while there wasn’t anything but pride on the line, this one certainly wasn’t friendly. DiBiase and Daniel Bryan continued their war as they had a very violent exchange that led them to the outside, clearly not intending to finish this match. While the two RAW superstars brawled the other four competitors fought it out in the ring, Del Rio eventually locking in the Rolling Armbar on Chris Masters to take the submission victory as security rushed down to break DiBiase and Bryan up before they seriously injured each other.

We cut backstage where Johnny Curtis is preparing for his match with Derrick Bateman which is up next. R-Truth enters the locker room, looking furious that his team just lost. Curtis tells Truth that he may have lost but that he’ll make it up to him by winning NXT Season Four. Truth looks at Curtis and asks him if he thinks that’s funny. A confused Curtis says he doesn’t know what Truth means, R-Truth shouting that Curtis isn’t funny. Truth tells Curtis to get out there and beat Bateman’s ass before he kicks Curtis’s. Johnny Curtis makes his exit quickly, R-Truth kicking a locker as we cut away.

A video package airs highlighting NXT Season Four, focusing on the build from the very start to tonight – the grand finale. From six rookies we are down to just two. Up next those final two rookies, Derrick Bateman and Johnny Curtis, clash one on one. And then, our winner is announced.

DERRICK BATEMAN (7 – 5) DEFEATED JOHNNY CURTIS (4 – 7)
The two final rookies of NXT Season Four clashed in tonight’s main event and with little time left before the big winner is announced this one was intense. Both men wanted to prove that they deserved to be here, and that they deserve to gain a spot on the main roster. Without their pro’s at ringside it was a simple one on one bout and both men looked impressive as they went back and forth and it wouldn’t be surprising to see both men on the main roster very soon. As the match reached its ending stretch either man could have taken the victory. Curtis went for the Spear, nicknamed the Maine Jam, but Bateman leaped straight over him and as Curtis turned around Bateman locked him in the LeBelle Lock, his pro’s signature move! Curtis tried escaping but to no avail and he was forced to tap out, giving Derrick Bateman the victory!

It is now time to name the winner of NXT Season Four and with both finalists already in the ring all that was required was for our hosts, Todd Grisham and Maryse, and the finalists respective pro’s, Daniel Bryan and R-Truth, to enter the ring. Grisham announces that it is now time to crown the winner of NXT Season Four! The winner will receive a guaranteed contract with the brand of their pro and a future shot at the WWE Tag Team Championships! We are reminded that the final vote was made exclusively by the WWE Universe as we head to the big screen, a graphic appearing that reveals that the winner of NXT Season Four is none other than... Derrick Bateman! Bateman goes crazy with his celebration, jumping around the ring and hugging Daniel Bryan, before planting a kiss on Maryse! Grisham announces that Derrick Bateman is RAW’s newest superstar and is guaranteed a shot with Daniel Bryan at the WWE Tag Team titles! Johnny Curtis looks disappointed and R-Truth simply leaves the ring,, not even talking to his rookie. The final season of NXT Season Four goes off the air with a shot of Derrick Bateman celebrating, and a reminder that Season Five debuts April 5th, exclusively on Syfy!

SMACKDOWN; 4th MARCH 2011


- Chavo Guerrero Defeated JTG
- Dolph Ziggler Defeated Chris Masters



We head to our three man announce team of Michael Cole, Booker T and Josh Matthews. With just one month left until WrestleMania 27 all everybody is looking to build momentum and book themselves a spot on the grandest stage of them all. Tonight the man who will challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship Jack Swagger will face off with Christian as well as a battle of the behemoths as Tyler Reks and Kane meet one on one. They are soon cut off by the music of Wade Barrett, the former Nexus leader making his way to the ring. We are reminded of The Undertaker’s return when he laid Barrett out last week as Barrett enters the ring and is handed a microphone.

Wade Barrett begins talking about how once upon a time he was the leader of Nexus. Barrett says that when he led them Nexus were dominant, that they struck fear in the hearts of every single superstar on this roster. He says that they didn’t fear anybody and that they waged war on everybody and hurt numerous men. Barrett claims that now that he is no longer leading the Nexus those men think that they can come after him as revenge for what he did but that they’re wrong, because he is better now than he ever was before. Barrett says one of those men is The Undertaker, whose name alone gets a nice pop. Wade Barrett states that The Undertaker was too scared to come after him when he was leading the Nexus, but that what he doesn’t realize is that he is more dangerous now than he ever was with Nexus because he doesn’t have to look out for those overrated, untalented hacks. Barrett claims that the only way The Undertaker can beat him is to appear out of the dark, that he is too scared to face him one on one. Barrett shouts that he isn’t scared of The Undertaker!

Suddenly The Undertaker’s voice can be heard across the arena, simply saying “Lies.” The Undertaker appears on the big screen, the crowd going crazy at this appearance by the Phenom. Undertaker is in a dark room, saying that he knows Wade Barrett is lying and that he knows exactly why Barrett got Nexus to attack him. The lights in the room suddenly turn on and behind Undertaker sits David Otunga, tied to a chair and gagged. Barrett looks horrified in the ring as The Undertaker says that it doesn’t matter what Barrett says, he knows the truth. He says that no matter how strong you claim to be eventually you will admit your sins to the deadman. The Undertaker walks up to Otunga, telling him to reveal why Nexus attacked him, Barrett shouting at him to keep his mouth shut from the ring. The gag is removed and Otunga shouts out that it was because Barrett was scared of The Undertaker, that he was scared he would come after them. Undertaker puts the gag back in and says that Barrett was right to be scared but that he has only made things worse for himself. Undertaker says that not only is he going to come after Wade Barrett, he is going to send him to the very depths of hell, the screen cutting off. Suddenly a lightning bolt strikes the turnbuckle nearest Barrett and he freaks out, dropping the microphone and making a quick exit from the ring. Barrett heads to the back, the crowd chanting that Undertaker is going to get him, as we cut to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

REY MYSTERIO DEFEATED INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION CODY RHODES VIA COUNT OUT
Cody Rhodes is clearly in line for a big push in 2011 and a feud with Rey Mysterio may be just the ticket to begin that push. Right now Rhodes seems to be in the middle of a gimmick change, right now mixing both his ‘dashing’ role with a new vicious streak and it’s a little bit awkward for him, but he still mixed it up with Mysterio in a very stylish match. The ending came when Mysterio hit Rhodes with the 619. Rhodes managed to duck under a springboard leap but realizing that his ‘dashing’ face had been struck led to him leaving the ring and walking off backstage, leaving a confused Mysterio to get the win by countout.

We head backstage where Wade Barrett is shown storming through the backstage area, still looking freaked out following the opening of tonight’s show. He bumps into SmackDown general manager Theodore Long who asks him where he thinks he is going. Barrett says that he is leaving. Long tells him he is meant to compete tonight but Barrett says that if Long thinks he is staying in this arena with that maniac The Undertaker after him then he can forget it. Barrett tells Theodore Long that if he wants him to compete here ever again, then he will deal with The Undertaker. Wade Barrett continues on his way as Theodore Long watches on in frustration.

A graphic hypes that later tonight Christian will face off with the number one contender to the World Heavyweight Championship, Jack Swagger!

COMMERCIAL BREAK

We return to SmackDown as Drew McIntyre is shown lacing his boots for his match later on tonight. Vickie Guerrero approaches him, smirking. McIntyre is less than pleased to see her, asking what she wants this time. Vickie reminds him that he has been on a winning streak lately but that last week he lost. She asks him what was different about last week but answers her own question, saying that the difference was that she wasn’t in his corner. McIntyre shouts that he hasn’t wanted her in his corner! Vickie says fine, that they’ll see how he does later tonight against Trent Barreta. And that when he loses, maybe he’ll reconsider her... talents. Vickie walks off as McIntyre just looked frustrated as we return to ringside.

BETH PHOENIX & KELLY KELLY DEFEATED TEAM LAY-COOL
With the number one contender’s Divas battle royal set for this Monday’s RAW this one was about momentum. It seems safe to assume that Beth Phoenix is the favourite to win the battle royal, most people are pushing for a Natalya/ Beth Phoenix feud and creative seem just as high on the idea right now. This match did nothing to deter that idea as Beth Phoenix looked the strongest Diva in the ring tonight, getting the pinfall on Michelle McCool following the Glam Slam.

We head to the parking lot where Wade Barrett is shown throwing his bags in the back of his car, having already announced his intent to not compete until Theodore Long deals with The Undertaker. Barrett gets into the car and speeds off as the camera pans around to show The Undertaker standing in the shadows, simply staring at Barrett as he leaves.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

We return to SmackDown and the locker room of the Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes. Rhodes is going crazy, throwing things around the locker room and screaming about how Mysterio went after his beautiful face. Todd Grisham enters the locker room looking to get a word on why Rhodes walked out on his match earlier tonight. Rhodes screams at him, grabbing him by the collar and shouting that he left because everybody is out to get him for his looks, that everybody is jealous of him. He lets Grisham go, muttering about how he needs to ‘protect’ his dashing good looks before lobbing a chair into a glass mirror. Rhodes stares into the shattered mirror as we return to ringside.

MARK HENRY w/ MATT STRIKER DEFEATED KOFI KINGSTON
Since allying himself with Matt Striker back at the Elimination Chamber pay per view Mark Henry has looked like a legitimate threat, something which we haven’t seen since way back in 2009. Kofi Kingston on the other hand has been lost in the shuffle for months now and while he put up a decent fight in this match it was obvious that he was just another victim being fed to Mark Henry, who picked up another victory with the World’s Strongest Slam.

The ring bell signals yet another victory for Mark Henry as his ‘agent’ Matt Striker makes his way into the ring. Henry looks down at Kingston as Striker whispers into his ear, a sadistic grin appearing on the face of the World’s Strongest Man. Henry grabs Kingston and pulls him up onto his feet. With Striker’s direction Henry lifts an already out of it Kofi Kingston into the air before dropping him down with the World’s Strongest Slam! Matt Striker raises Mark Henry’s arm as the World’s Strongest Man stares at the broken Kofi Kingston as SmackDown heads to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A video package promotes the third entries into the Hall of Fame’s class of 2011. Please welcome Road Warrior Hawk, Road Warrior Animal and Paul Ellering, the Legion of Doom, into the WWE class of 2011!

The music of Christian hits the speakers, Captain Charisma making his way down to the ring to a big ovation. Christian is all business here tonight as he is handed a microphone and begins talking about Alberto Del Rio. Christian reminds everyone that he spent four months on the sideline because of Alberto Del Rio and that ever since he got back Del Rio has been ducking him every chance he gets and that he is tired of it. Christian says that Del Rio needs to know what it feels like to have to sit at home and watch as the business that you love continues on without you. Christian says that he may have a match later on tonight but that he can’t wait any longer, shouting at Del Rio to come to this ring right now and face him like a man!

The crowd cheer Christian on as he waits in the ring, the music of Alberto Del Rio playing. Del Rio drives out in one of his signature classy cars, stepping out with a microphone already in his hand. Del Rio steps up onto the ramp, telling Christian that he is stupider than even he thought if he expects Del Rio to step into the ring for an unsanctioned match. Del Rio says that Christian is just jealous because while he was busy sitting at home crying over what the big bad Mexican aristocrat did to him Alberto Del Rio was busy proving himself as the best wrestler on SmackDown. Del Rio tells Christian that he isn’t going to risk his career by fighting some maniac like Christian and that he will decide when Christian gets a match with him. Christian shouts that he should stop being a little b***h and get in this ring. Del Rio shakes his head, assuring Christian that he will get his match but that it will be on Del Rio’s terms, and that those terms will come a lot quicker than Christian thinks. Del Rio and Christian state each other down as SmackDown cuts to commercials.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

A video package airs highlighting the recent return of The Rock and his interactions with John Cena and WWE Champion The Miz. Following the video it is announced that next week on SmackDown The Rock returns to the show that bears his name. Finally The Rock comes back to SmackDown – next week!

TRENT BARRETA DEFEATED DREW MCINTYRE
The storyline between McIntyre and Vickie Guerrero is obviously going to continue with this result but the real story is that Trent Barreta actually got a win on SmackDown. Barreta is a great talent but he’s struggling to really find a spot on the main show and it’s worrying that he was just slotted into this match tonight. McIntyre looked set to win it and had Barreta set up for the Future Shock but Barreta reversed it and rolled McIntyre up for the shock victory.

We head to the locker room area where Christian is getting ready for his match later tonight, still looking angry over Del Rio’s refusal to face him in a match. World Heavyweight Champion Edge walks into the locker room, Christian getting up to hug his long time friend. Edge asks Christian if he’s in the right mindset to face Jack Swagger here tonight, saying that he doesn’t want Christian getting injured or worse, injuring his WrestleMania opponent. Christian tells him not to worry and that he intends to beat Jack Swagger fair and square and then go after Alberto Del Rio. Edge proceeds to wish him luck, saying that he’ll be at ringside to make sure Del Rio doesn’t try anything. Christian thanks him as Edge leaves Christian to get ready as we cut away.

A video package airs promoting the twenty seventh annual WrestleMani, airing on the 3rd of April exclusively on pay per view! It focuses on the already announced World title matches which pit World Heavyweight Champion Edge against Jack Swagger and WWE Champion The Miz against John Cena.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

We head backstage where Big Show is talking with SmackDown general manager Theodore Long about not being on the show tonight. Diesel appears behind him, Big Show turning around and the two staring each other down. Big Show asks Diesel why he turned up last week and Diesel says that he isn’t there to cause any trouble, he’s just there to request a rematch with the Big Show for next week on SmackDown! Big Show tells Diesel that he’d be happy to beat him one more time. Theodore Long books the match making it official. Next week on SmackDown Big Show will go one on one with Diesel in an Elimination Chamber rematch!

A video package airs highlighting Tyler Reks’ recent attacks on Kane. Having squared off in the ring once Tyler Reks put Kane down for the count and has done the same thing twice since in vicious attacks. Kane gets his chance for revenge – NOW!

TYLER REKS DEFEATED KANE
With rumours of both Big Show and Kane retiring this year floating about it looks like Tyler Reks is being pushed as the next big monster on SmackDown. Coming into this match we were well aware that he could match Kane in terms of strength and monstrous intensity but it became apparent in this match that he is capable of besting Kane in such matters. The two fought it out in a close back and forth match. Kane went for the Chokeslam but in a shocking display of ferocity Reks hit Kane with a Head butt to break the grip before putting Kane down with the Burning Hammer to pick up yet another victory.

Following the match Tyler Reks grabs Kane and pulls him up to his feet before blasting him with a boot that sends Kane toppling through the ring ropes to the outside. Reks follows him out and continues the assault, smashing Kane’s head into the announce table before proceeding to rip the announce table’s top apart. Numerous referees rush down to try and stop the scene but Reks pushes them all away. Reks goes to grab Kane but the big red machine grabs him around the throat, lifts him up and Chokeslams him straight through the announce table! Kane stares at Tyler Reks, his plan to injure Kane having backfired here tonight on SmackDown!

COMMERCIAL BREAK

As we return to SmackDown the music of World Heavyweight Champion Edge hits, the Rated R Superstar making his way down to ringside. Edge walks around the ring and joins Michael Cole, Booker T and Josh Matthews at ringside for upcoming main event.

JACK SWAGGER DEFEATED CHRISTIAN
WWE are doing everything they can to build Jack Swagger up as a serious main event heel and when it comes to the live crowds it seems to be working. Swagger got a massive amount of heel heat here tonight and every single move he did just seemed to increase that. Christian on the other hand was super over tonight and he really took the fight to the number one contender. The match was very entertaining and if Swagger’s contest with Edge is just as good then people will not be leaving WrestleMania disappointed. The ending stretch saw Christian build up a lot of momentum before Alberto Del Rio appeared at ringside. Edge left the announce table to get rid of him but the distraction was enough as Swagger hit the Gutwrench Powerbomb to take the victory.

On the outside Edge sends Del Rio crashing into the steel steps before sliding into the ring and squaring up with the man who will challenge him at WrestleMania 27. The two exchange blows and Edge takes the upper hand before Alberto Del Rio slides into the ring and attacks Edge from behind Swagger and Del Rio double team the World Heavyweight Champion. Christian, having recovered from the Gutwrench, gets right into the thick of it by pulling Del Rio away and unloading with right hands. Edge & Christian are really taking it to Del Rio and Swagger when suddenly Christian is struck from behind by none other than Del Rio’s former NXT rookie Brodus Clay! Clay makes a big impact by nailing Christian with the Fall of Humanity as Del Rio kicks Edge right between the legs allowing Jack Swagger to connect with another Gutwrench Powerbomb. Edge and Christian are out of it in the ring as Jack Swagger and Alberto Del Rio stand over their fallen rivals thanks to the help of a surprise appearance courtesy of Brodus Clay. SmackDown goes off the air with Jack Swagger, Alberto Del Rio and Brodus Clay standing tall over World Heavyweight Champion Edge and Christian.