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Post by Planktung on Feb 10, 2015 6:13:06 GMT -5
#KOTRKickoff
| Following the signature WWE intro, members of the WWE Universe were shown filing into the Allstate Arena as we are just thirty minutes away from King of the Ring, live on Pay-Per-View! Renee Young welcomed everyone to the King of the Ring Kickoff Show as she was joined by an all-star panel of former King of the Ring winners. Booker T, Sheamus and 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin! After the three introduced themselves, Renee stated that she wanted to get down to business quickly and start off with the King of the Ring tournament. The bracket for the tournament was shown as we are left with four participants. Cody Rhodes, Intercontinental Champion Seth Rollins, Alberto Del Rio and the man who is fighting for his job, Dean Ambrose. "The first thing I want to ask you three is what does it mean to be King of the Ring? Where does that take your career?" asked Renee as Booker spoke first. "Being King of the Ring, it-it means that you are on a level above your peers in that locker room. It says something for you to be able to walk around here and call yourself the King of the Ring. I remember a time once where the WWE was graced by a man known as King! Bookah! And King Booker went on to become World Heavyweight Champion! Anyone in this tournament can do that with the title opportunity that they would earn at SummerSlam," said Booker T. Sheamus then said that when he became King of the Ring in 2010, it could not have come at a better time in his career. "I had just lost the WWE Championship and winning the King of the Ring tournament helped put my career back on track. I couldn't regain me throne this year, unfortunately, but let it be known that in 2014, the 'Celtic Warrior' will be looking to become a two-time King of the Ring winner," Sheamus said. Lastly, Steve Austin said that many in the WWE Universe consider King of the Ring 1996 to be the moment that 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin was born. "I gave my famous speech where I coined the, 'Austin 3:16' phrase and from that point on, the rest is history. This is a huge night for all four of those guys, and it's going to be even bigger for whichever one of them wins this whole thing," said Austin. "Moving on to predictions, I'm going to put you guys on the spot. Who leaves here tonight as the 2013 King of the Ring?" asked Renee. Sheamus said that he's been in the ring with all four guys and it's not easy at all to select a winner. "'Pure talent' is the only way that I can describe this final four. But I'm going with Dean Ambrose for the King of the Ring tournament based on the fact that he has the most to fight for. Rollins, Rhodes and Alberto are all driven by the desire to become champion, while Ambrose is fighting for his career. The title match comes along with a victory, but Ambrose's main concern is to stick it to The Committee and become King of the Ring," said Sheamus. Booker T responded to the 'Celtic Warrior' by saying that he believes Ambrose's contract being on the line is more of a detriment than anything else. "Ambrose is going to let that get in the way of his focus here tonight. My pick in this tournament is the man who Ambrose meets in the Semi Finals, Alberto Del Rio! I've been a big supporter of Alberto for years now. A staple in my fave five, if you will! He hasn't been in title contention for some time now and he's hungry to get back into that position! Alberto is my pick all the way, dawg!" said Booker with confidence. "I see your point, Book, but I"m gonna have to agree with Sheamus on this one and that Dean Ambrose is going to become King of the Ring tonight. I've had some people make the comparisons between Ambrose and myself and I'll be honest. I see them more and more every time he's in that ring. Ambrose is going to bring his best to Chicago tonight and I don't anyone is going to stop him. Not even The Committee," said Austin.
"Outside of the King of the Ring tournament, four huge matches will also be taking place, two concerning The Committee. The first is the Divas Championship match between AJ Lee and Kaitlyn," said Renee before asking Booker T for his prediction for that bout. "I have very little doubt in my mind that Kaitlyn will be leaving King of the Ring as the Divas Champion. There's no way AJ is 100% just yet after that match that she had with Paige at Extreme Rules," said Booker. Sheamus then said that he can't see any way for Kaitlyn to not become champion. "Like Booker said, AJ is not physically ready for this match, and I'll go the extra mile and say that she's not ready mentally either. Factor in Stephanie McMahon being in Kaitlyn's corner and you have the recipe for a new Divas Champion," stated Sheamus. "I'm not going to give a clear prediction on this match because it can go so many ways. I talked about AJ's match with Paige on my podcast a few weeks back and said that it was the most brutal match I had seen in the last fifteen years, dating back to The Undertaker and Mick Foley's Hell in a Cell match at this exact event. AJ showed me something that night and I can't count her out. I would like for her to retain the Divas Championship tonight......but it does seem like all of the pieces are there for Kaitlyn to become champion." Renee then mentioned that the other match featuring Committee members is the Steel Cage match for the WWE Tag Team Championships. Randy Orton and Batista will be joined by Derrick Bateman as they defend their titles against members of what is known as The Uprising, CM Punk and Wade Barrett. "CM Punk and Wade Barrett. The Uprising. No doubt about it. The Committee has the numbers advantage, but they're walking into Punk's territory. Factor in Wade Barrett being the powerhouse that he is and we got us some new Tag Team Champions tonight!" Austin then said that he was going with Punk and Barrett for the same reasons as Booker, but with one thing added. "The Committee has the advantage here, but not the camaraderie that is needed for this type of match. We saw on SmackDown, Derrick Bateman could have become World Heavyweight Champion, but Orton and Batista stopped him and said that he needed to focus on tonight. That tension that Orton and Batista have with Bateman is going to be the difference maker." Sheamus then said that he had nothing to add since Booker and Austin both said it perfectly. "CM Punk and Wade Barrett need to win this match if they truly want to rebel against The Committee. Not only do I hope that they win, but I'm confident in saying that they will," stated Sheamus. The discussion regarding the WWE Tag Team Championships match came at the perfect time as we were about to find out who the number one contenders would be as the Best of Five Series concludes!
MATCH FIVE IN THE BEST OF FIVE SERIES - THE USOS VS. THE REAL AMERICANS: In the eyes of many in the WWE Universe, The Usos and The Real Americans put on the best Kickoff Show match in the past year and a half of the concept's existence. Those competing on King of the Ring tonight have an incredibly touch act to follow as both teams laid it all on the line, the Chicago crowd loving every second of it. "This is awesome!" chants filled the arena after a Tower of Doom spot that laid out all four competitors. Jack Swagger rolled out of the ring as Shelton Benjamin and Jimmy Uso staggered to their feet. Jimmy delivered a strike to Benjamin, but the former Intercontinental, United States and Tag Team Champion retaliated with a chop. This continued until Jimmy was able to get the upper hand. He went for a Superkick, but Benjamin managed to catch his foot. Immediately after that, Jey Uso caught Benjamin with a Superkick, leading to Jimmy breaking free and hitting one of his own! Benjamin was out as Jimmy climbed to the top rope, looking for the Superfly Splash. However, Swagger stepped onto the ring apron and got a hold of his foot. Jimmy kicked him off as Jey leaped over the top rope, but Swagger caught him in mid-air and delivered a Belly-to-Belly Suplex onto the floor! Swagger went back to the ring apron as Benjamin got his knees up during Jimmy's Splash attempt. Swagger was tagged in as he lifted Jimmy into the air with a Gutwrench Powerbomb, Benjamin springboarding off of the top rope and delivering a Clothesline for the double team maneuver! Swagger got the cover on Jimmy to pick up the victory in not just the match, but the Best of Five Series as well. THE REAL AMERICANS WIN THE BEST OF FIVE SERIES!
"The Real Americans are the number one contenders! What a match!" said Michael Cole on commentary as the audience in Chicago went wild after witnessing a helacious and nail-biting match up between two of the best tag teams in the world at the moment. Zeb Colter joined Jack Swagger and Shelton Benjamin in the ring, raising the arms of his Real Americans. Highlights from the match were shown as the commentary team put over the effort on the part of The Usos throughout the entire series. However, it was The Real Americans who came out victorious here in the fifth and final match, now on their way to a WWE Tag Team Championship match at some point in the near future against either Committee members Randy Orton and Batista, or Uprising members CM Punk and Wade Barrett. "We, the people!" shouted Benjamin, Swagger and Colter as they headed up the entrance ramp.
Returning to the panel of experts for King of the Ring, Renee Young noted that a little less than four minutes remained until the live Pay-Per-View broadcast. "I want to get you guys' predictions on the final two matches left to cover for tonight. The World Heavyweight Championship is on the line in a Triple Threat match. Daniel Bryan defends against two 'Paul Heyman Guys,' Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno," said Renee. "I'm going with my boy, D-Bry! Daniel Bryan is going to capitalize on the ongoing issues between Cesaro and Ohno to retain the World Title," Booker T stated. "There's only one guy in that locker room who I can say hits harder than I do in that ring and that's Antonio Cesaro. We've never gotten along. I still have beef with him after he took me Intercontinental Championship in his debut match over a year ago, but I do feel that tonight is his night to become World Heavyweight Champion," predicted Sheamus. "I like that cat, Kassius Ohno, for this one. This is his first opportunity at the World Heavyweight Title in his career. He's still a very fresh and unpredictable talent for everyone here on the main roster. That magic that he had in NXT as the champion down there will be repeated. That's just my take on it. Don't count out Daniel Bryan and Antonio Cesaro, but Ohno is looking great right now and I see him leaving with the gold," said 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin. Finally, the WWE Championship is on the line as John Cena defends against Bray Wyatt. "John Cena. Bray Wyatt has looked unstoppable over the past year, but he can be beaten. We saw that at WrestleMania against The Undertaker. Cena is at his best in these tough situations when the odds are seemingly against him and I think he'll rise to the occasion like he usually does," stated Sheamus. "I want to point out what you said right there, Sheamus. John Cena usually rises to the occasion. This Bray Wyatt is unlike anything I've ever seen before. I might be changing up my prediction as the night rolls on, but for right now, I'm going with Bray," Austin said. Lastly, Booker T said that he's going to make a rather bold prediction for this match. "I can't pick a winner between John Cena and Bray Wyatt. I just can't because of how evenly they are matched heading into tonight, but I will say this. Neither will leave King of the Ring as WWE Champion. I said earlier that Randy Orton, Batista and Derrick Bateman will lose the Steel Cage match against CM Punk and Wade Barrett. Because of that, Bateman is going to want to recapture his momentum and I think that tonight is the night he cashes in Money in the Bank and leaves Chicago as the WWE Champion!" Booker said as the rest of the panel seemed surprised by his prediction. "That wraps things up for the Kickoff Show. Enjoy King of the Ring on Pay-Per-View, everyone!" said Renee to close things out on the Kickoff Show.
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| SHOW START
| #KingOfTheRing
| Following the signature WWE intro a shot of the King of the Ring throne was shown as highlights from previous tournaments were shown. Among past winners of the tournament include 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin, Edge, Bret Hart, Cody Rhodes and Brock Lesnar, all showcased in the video package. We then saw clips of the four men who will compete tonight for the King of the Ring throne. Last year's winner, Cody Rhodes. Former WWE Champion, Alberto Del Rio. The current Intercontinental Champion, Seth Rollins. And lastly, the man who is competing for his contract in this tournament, Dean Ambrose. By the end of the night, who will have to right to call himself "King of the Ring" and earn a championship opportunity at SummerSlam? ".....You want a war, Hunter? You've got one!" Those were the words of Paige just minutes she was laid out with a Pedigree from the WWE COO, Triple H. It was that moment where the war between The Committee and The Uprising escalated to new heights. Tonight, the war takes place within the confines of a Steel Cage as Randy Orton and Batista are joined by Mr. Money in the Bank, Derrick Bateman, in defending the WWE Tag Team Championships against members of The Uprising, Wade Barrett and the hometown hero, CM Punk. Concluding the video package were highlights of the rivalry between Bray Wyatt and the WWE Champion, John Cena. Tonight, the two will meet one-on-one with the WWE Title up for grabs. Will John Cena be successful in silencing the 'Eater of Worlds,' or is tonight the night that Wyatt's message reaches the rest of the WWE Universe? "He's got the whole world in his hands, he's got the whole wide world in his hands. He's got the whole world in his hands, he's got the whole......world.....in his......hands...."
"And now, WWE presents.....King of the Ring!" A huge pyrotechnics display was set off in the Allstate Arena as cameras hovered over the red-hot audience in Chicago. Michael Cole, Jerry 'The King' Lawler and John Bradshaw Layfield welcomed everyone to King of the Ring, where tonight, four men compete in the King of the Ring tournament Semi Finals, eventually leading to the Finals where the winner will earn a championship opportunity at the 'Biggest Party of the Summer,' SummerSlam in Los Angeles! Along with that, four huge championship matches take place. The World Heavyweight Championship is on the line as Daniel Bryan defends against Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno. AJ Lee puts the Divas Championship up for grabs against her former best friend and Committee member, Kaitlyn. Speaking of The Committee, Randy Orton, Batista and Derrick Bateman take on CM Punk and Wade Barrett in a Handicap Steel Cage match for the WWE Tag Team Championships. And finally, the WWE Championship is on the line. John Cena defends against the man who is arguably the most dominant and powerful entity of the past year, Bray Wyatt! But first, we kick things off with the first of two King of the Ring Semi Finals matches!
| #RhodesvsRollins
| KING OF THE RING SEMI FINALS MATCH - CODY RHODES VS. INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION SETH ROLLINS: The sound of Cody Rhodes' entrance music sparked a huge pop from the Chicago audience as last year's King of the Ring winner made his way down to the ring, looking to recapture the throne here tonight and go on to SummerSlam to challenge for the WWE Championship, which he has made clear to the current champion, John Cena. After Rhodes was settled in the ring, Seth Rollins' entrance theme hit to a mixed reaction from a city that he became very familiar with during his time on the independent scene. The Intercontinental Champion made his way down to the ring, coming face-to-face with Cody Rhodes. The bell sounded as the two competitors locked up, Rollins backing Rhodes into a corner. Before backing away as the official ordered, Rollins delivered a slap across the face of the 'Prince of Pro Wrestling.' The Intercontinental Champion laughed to himself until Rhodes walked up to him and delivered a slap of his own! Rollins tried to retaliate with a strike, but Rhodes dodged it and rolled him up for a two count. After Rollins got to his feet, Rhodes took him out with a Clothesline over the top rope. Rhodes then stepped onto the top rope, coming down with a Moonsault onto the Intercontinental Champion! Chants of "Cody! Cody! Cody!" could be heard as Rhodes rolled Rollins back into the ring, covering him for a count of two. Rhodes brought the Intercontinental Champion up to his feet, whipping him into the opposite corner. Rhodes charged towards him, but Rollins managed to get a foot up in time. With Rhodes momentarily stunned, Rollins delivered a Slingblade for the two count. Rollins tossed Rhodes to the outside, leaping at him with a forearm off of the ring apron. As Rhodes attempted to get to his feet, Rollins had his sights set on delivering a Curb Stomp onto the floor. The 'Prince of Pro Wrestling,' however, was able to move out of harm's way in time, using the ring apron as a launching pad to connect with the Disaster Kick! Rhodes rolled the Intercontinental Champion back into the ring, climbing onto the top turnbuckle. When Rollins to his feet, Rhodes leaped off, but was caught with a mid-air Dropkick! Both men struggled to get to their feet, but soon did so. Rollins and Rhodes traded strikes as the audience did the same with chants of, "Boo!" and "Yeah!" Rhodes dodged one of Rollins' shots again, attempting to plant him with a Back Drop Suplex. The Intercontinental Champion, however, landed on his feet and caught Rhodes with an Enziguri. Rollins then attempted to connect with Avada Kedavra, but Rhodes caught his foot and placed him in position for the Alabama Slam. Rollins held onto the top rope, but Rhodes was able to pull him away. Rollins, however, slid out of Rhodes' grasp and rolled him up for a two count. Despite Rhodes getting a shoulder up, Rollins was able to use his strength to lift the 'Prince of Pro Wrestling' up off of the canvas and deliver a Powerbomb into the corner. Rollins attempted to hit a Curb Stomp and finish the match right there and then, but Rhodes was able to spring to his feet and catch the Intercontinental Champion with a huge Lariat! "This is an absolute battle between two of the best going today in the WWE!" said John Bradshaw Layfield as the crowd applauded both superstars' performance thus far. Rhodes picked Rollins up and placed him in position for Cross Rhodes, but it was countered into a Sliced Bread! Rollins covered Rhodes, but was still unable to get the victory. "Get up, Cody!" shouted Rollins as he was looking to hit another Avada Kedavra onto last year's King of the Ring winner. Rollins connected with it, but Rhodes still remained on his knees. Rollins hit another one, this time bringing Rhodes down. Rollins got the cover with the hook of the leg, but Rhodes was once again able to kick out! "What's it going to take for Seth Rollins to put Cody Rhodes away?!" asked Jerry Lawler on commentary as Rollins tugged on his hair. The Intercontinental Champion then suddenly had the idea to end Rhodes once and for all with the maneuver that he had used sporadically over the past year. "No..." said Michael Cole as Rhodes was placed into position for a Piledriver. Rollins, however, was unable to hit it as Rhodes countered it into an Alabama Slam, successfully hitting it after a failed attempt earlier. Rhodes quickly brought Rollins back into his feet, looking for a Piledriver of his own. Rollins managed to fight his way out of it, pushing himself out of place and landing on his feet. Rhodes fell onto the canvas as Rollins connected with one more Avada Kedavra! He followed that up with a Curb Stomp, covering Rhodes to finally pick up the victory. SETH ROLLINS ADVANCES TO THE KING OF THE RING FINALS!
A mixed reaction emerged from the Allstate Arena as Seth Rollins rose to his feet, being handed back the Intercontinental Championship as his King of the Ring hopes stay alive. Highlights from the incredible match were shown, concluding with the Curb Stomp that put Cody Rhodes away. As Rhodes' quest to win the King of the Ring tournament come to an end, Seth Rollins has solidified his spot in the Finals later on tonight. "Rollins is now just one match away from earning himself a title opportunity at SummerSlam!" said John Bradshaw Layfield as Rollins stood on the stage, raising the Intercontinental Title while staring at the throne that he could very well claim as his tonight.
Backstage, Josh Mathews was shown standing by with the advocate for the two challengers to Daniel Bryan's World Heavyweight Championship here tonight, Paul Heyman. Heyman stepped into the picture as he was asked if he believes that Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno will be able to remain on the same page after their Triple Threat match tonight. "Josh, by suggesting that Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno may separate after tonight implies that you are questioning my capabilities as an adviser for them. Under the guidance of anybody else, Cesaro and Ohno would no longer be acquaintances, but under the guidance of Paul Heyman, this unit is just as strong as it has ever been. Tonight, one of my two clients in action will leave King of the Ring as the World Heavyweight Champion," said a very confident Heyman.
| #AmbrosevsDelRio
| KING OF THE RING SEMI FINALS MATCH - DEAN AMBROSE VS. ALBERTO DEL RIO: With Seth Rollins now officially in the Finals of the King of the Ring tournament, it was time to find out who would be joining him later on tonight. The Chicago audience was thoroughly behind Dean Ambrose, wanting nothing more than to see the 'Lunatic Fringe' be victorious in the tournament and regain his contract that Triple H and The Committee have attempted to deprive him of. The bell was sounded as Ambrose wasted no time, charging right at Alberto Del Rio and striking him repeatedly in a corner. The official was forced to restrain Ambrose, which gave Del Rio the opening to catch him with a Superkick. Del Rio quickly got the cover, but Ambrose was able to kick out right at two. Del Rio applied a rest hold onto Ambrose, pulling tightly as he attempted to rid the 'Lunatic Fringe' of oxygen. Ambrose fought his way out of it, catching Del Rio with numerous elbow to the mid-section. Del Rio grabbed Ambrose by his hair and pulled him down to the canvas, striking away at him. The 'Mexican Aristocrat' attempted to apply the Cross Armbreaker, but Ambrose was able to fight out of it. He placed Del Rio against the ropes, hitting him with a few hard right hand shots before charging at him with a Running Dropkick. Ambrose covered Del Rio, but couldn't get the victory at that moment. He picked Del Rio up off of the canvas and threw him out to ringside, looking to deliver a Suicide Dive through the second rope. Del Rio, however, was able to move out of harm's way as Ambrose crashed head-first into the barricade. Ambrose slowly got to his feet, but Del Rio, who stood on the ring apron, delivered a huge kick to his face. Ambrose was rolled back into the ring as Del Rio got the cover, but not the victory. Concerned was raised over Ambrose's well-being after taking two hard shots to the head. The official checked on him, but refused to give up. Del Rio rammed Ambrose into a corner and focused on his head at that point, making it his target. He pulled the 'Lunatic Fringe' into the center of the ring, covering him for another near fall. Del Rio attempted to connect with a Superkick, but Ambrose was able to block it. He placed Del Rio in position for a Double Underhook DDT, but Del Rio pushed him away. Ambrose, however, bounced back with a Jawbreaker Lariat! He slowly got the cover on Del Rio, but was unsuccessful in his attempt to get the victory. Ambrose, despite being dazed after several blows to the head, stood to his feet and backed into a corner, waiting for the right moment to strike with a Boma Ye. Del Rio, however, caught Ambrose with a Superkick during the attempt, covering him for the near fall. Del Rio became even more infuriated at that point, locking in the Cross Armbreaker. It was a struggle for Ambrose, but he managed to reach the bottom rope before reaching his breaking point. Ambrose stepped out onto the ring apron, blocking a strike with Del Rio and hitting one of his own. He then ascended up to the top turnbuckle, coming down with an Elbow Drop to the standing Del Rio. After Del Rio was able to kick out of that, Ambrose attempted to bring him up to his feet, but Del Rio retaliated with an Uppercut following by a German Suplex with a bridge. Ambrose got a shoulder up in time, leading to Del Rio looking to strike with another Superkick. However, the 'Mexican Aristocrat' instead got the idea to hit Ambrose with his own Boma Ye. Del Rio pulled his knee pad down to increase the impact, but while he was in motion, Ambrose kicked him right in his knee cap. Del Rio fell onto the canvas, giving Ambrose the perfect opening to hit the Boma Ye to the side of his head! Ambrose covered Del Rio, finally able to grab the victory. DEAN AMBROSE ADVANCES TO THE KING OF THE RING FINALS!
The WWE Universe erupted as Dean Ambrose slowly stood to his feet while being declared the winner of this bout. The official and ringside doctor tried to check on the 'Lunatic Fringe' after he received several huge blows to the head in this match, but Ambrose refused medical attention as he left the ring. The updated bracket was shown as the stage is now set for the Finals. Tonight, Ambrose will meet Seth Rollins with the winner becoming the 2013 King of the Ring. And for Ambrose, he is just one match away from sticking it to The Committee and earning his WWE contract back.
| #DivasTitle
| Backstage, The Committee were shown in the office of Stephanie McMahon, though notably absent were Kane and Triple H. They all watched a television monitor as they were appalled with the fact that Dean Ambrose will be competing in the Finals of the King of the Ring tournament. "This won't mean anything in the end. Dean Ambrose will NOT win King of the Ring and get his job back," said Stephanie. "However, we will all be victorious tonight. Orton, Batista and Bateman, you three know what to do. Take out CM Punk and Wade Barrett and bring their little 'Uprising' to an end," said Stephanie. As she was speaking, Bateman attempted to put his arm around Kaitlyn, but was shunned away "And Kaitlyn, now is the time. Let's go bring the Divas Championship back to The Committee and officially declare you as the face of the division," said Stephanie as she and Kaitlyn left the room together.
At this time, the video package for AJ Lee and Kaitlyn's match for the Divas Championship that aired back on SmackDown was shown, featuring "Surprise Surprise" by Billy Talent. "It is as personal of a rivalry between two Divas as we have ever seen. Who leaves Chicago tonight as the Divas Champion?" asked Michael Cole before the entrance music of Kaitlyn hit. She and Stephanie McMahon made their way out to a massive amount of heat from the audience. The two Committee members didn't care one bit for the response, though. As they were walking towards the ring, the crowd reaction suddenly changed from boos to monstrously loud cheers. "What the?!? Oh my God!! PAIGE!!!" yelled out Cole on commentary as Paige ran out through the curtain, striking Stephanie McMahon from behind! "Paige has Stephanie!" stated Lawler as the 'Anti Diva,' who had not been seen since receiving a Pedigree from Triple H two weeks ago, struck away furiously on the woman who assaulted her mother six nights ago on RAW. Kaitlyn tried to pull Paige away, but was caught with an elbow to the side of her head for her troubles. Stephanie began to crawl away, but Paige kicked her in the side before resuming her attack. Several security guards hit the scene, trying their best to restrain Paige. "That's for my mum! You bitch!" shouted Paige as she was carried away from the scene. Suddenly, AJ Lee's entrance music hit as the Divas Champion ran down to ringside, taking Kaitlyn down with a Thesz Press! "Stephanie McMahon is laid out! Paige is being carried away! AJ and Kaitlyn are fighting at ringside! What the hell is going on in the Divas division?!?" asked John Bradshaw Layfield.
DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH - AJ LEE VS. KAITLYN: It should be noted that the match had not yet official started as AJ Lee continued to assault Kaitlyn at ringside, the Divas Champion taking advantage of the chaos that ensued as a result of Paige attacking Stephanie McMahon. AJ threw Kaitlyn into a barricade before backing away with a huge grin on her face. She then ran towards Kaitlyn, delivering a Clothesline that sent the both of them over the barricade. Cameras then show Stephanie McMahon being assisted the backstage area after being assaulted by Paige. Kaitlyn was left all alone in this bout, throwing The Committee's plans for this match completely out the window. AJ and Kaitlyn both got to their feet in the audience, the Divas Champion striking with a few forearms as the official attempted to get the two of them into the ring. AJ and Kaitlyn, however, ignored the referee's orders, continuing to brawl in the sea of WWE Universe members in the Allstate Arena. Kaitlyn delivered a Back Body Drop onto the floor, leaving the Divas Champion writhing in pain for a bit. AJ crawled towards the stands as Kaitlyn went after her, throwing her against the guard rail. AJ was able to fight off her adversary, holding onto the rail while kicking her away. Kaitlyn was back onto the floor as AJ charged into her with a Shining Wizard! "What's the purpose of hitting a Shining Wizard on the outside?! The match can't be won there! Hell, the match hasn't even started!" said John Bradshaw Layfield on commentary. AJ then stood to her feet, but rather than head into the ring, she made her to the upper level stands. AJ stood next to the rail as she looked down at Kaitlyn. "What the hell is AJ doing?" asked Cole as the Divas Champion placed one foot onto the rail, the crowd cheering her on. "No way!" yelled out Lawler as AJ jumped from the stands and onto Kaitlyn with a Flying Crossbody! Both Divas were down and out as chants of "holy sh*t!" rang throughout the Allstate Arena. The replay of AJ's Crossbody was shown several times, even in slow motion. "Last Diva Standing and now this? Are there any lengths that AJ won't go in order to hold onto the Divas Championship?!" asked Lawler on commentary. The ringside doctor made his way out into the audience to check on both Divas, uncertain if the match would even be able to take place. The doctor assisted AJ over the barricade while the official did the same with Kaitlyn. However, AJ refused any help as she grabbed Kaitlyn by her hair, pulling her over the barricade. The Divas Champion rolled the 'Hybrid Diva' into the ring, ordering the official to start the match! The bell finally sounded as AJ waited patiently in the corner for the right moment to hit the Shining Wizard again. As AJ was charging at Kaitlyn, she was caught by surprise with a Spear! Kaitlyn, however, was still dazed and took more than a few seconds to get the cover. By the time that Kaitlyn did so, AJ was able to kick out. The 'Hybrid Diva' got to her feet first, placing AJ on her shoulders. She attempted to deliver a Gutbuster, but AJ managed to counter it into a Hurricanrana, sending Kaitlyn face-first into the second turnbuckle. AJ ran into Kaitlyn with a Dropkick as she sat in the corner. AJ then ascended to the top rope, looking to deliver the same Flying Crossbody that she did earlier from the stands. This time, however, Kaitlyn was able to catch AJ in mid-air. She attempted to plant her with a Swinging Side Slam (Catatonic), but AJ countered it into the Black Widow! The hold was applied fully as Kaitlyn dropped to one knee, seemingly on the verge of submitting. That was ultimately not the case, however, as Kaitlyn was able to power her way out of the hold. AJ attempted a Roundhouse Kick, but Kaitlyn dodged it and delivered a Discus Lariat! Kaitlyn would then back into a corner, waiting for AJ to rise to her feet so that she could deliver a Spear. At that moment, however, the crowd came unglued as Paige once again hit the ring, this time through the audience! She slid into the ring and attacked Kaitlyn, causing the disqualification finish. KAITLYN WINS VIA DISQUALIFICATION, AJ LEE RETAINS THE DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP!
"Somebody get Paige the hell out of the ring!" shouted John Bradshaw Layfield as the 'Anti Diva' stomped away on Kaitlyn in a corner, the announcement being made that due to a disqualification, AJ Lee was still the Divas Champion. Paige brought Kaitlyn into the center of the ring, planting her with a Paige Turner. Paige stood over Kaitlyn, staring down at the woman who had a hand in attacking her mother last Monday on RAW. The official then handed the Divas Championship over to AJ, who sat in a corner. Paige turned her head towards AJ, the two Divas making eye contact for the first time since their Last Diva Standing match back at Extreme Rules. AJ, who stated a while back on SmackDown that Paige could "go to hell," attempted to run out of the ring. Paige, however, got a hold of AJ by her shorts, pulling her away from the ropes. Paige delivered RamPaige to AJ, the 'Anti Diva' standing tall over the two women who just took each other to the limit for the Divas Championship.
| #TripleThreat
| A promo was shown for Payback, live Sunday, July 14th, only on Pay-Per-View.
Back in the Allstate Arena, the commentary team discussed the carnage that we just witnessed in the Divas Championship. "Yeah, carnage is exactly what that was and the sole person responsible was Paige. First, she had the audacity to attack Stephanie McMahon. Then, later on, she ruined the match itself by attacking Kaitlyn and, eventually, AJ Lee. Paige needs to be locked away in an asylum somewhere! She doesn't belong in that ring!" said John Bradshaw Layfield as Jerry Lawler defended Paige's actions, saying that she had every right to act out in rage after what has happened to not just her, but her family over the last few weeks. "Moving on, ladies and gentlemen, the time is now for the World Heavyweight Championship to be decided in a Triple Threat match," said Michael Cole before sending things over to Justin Roberts. After it was announced that the following contest was for the World Heavyweight Championship, Paul Heyman made his way out to a mixed reaction from the Chicago audience. "Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Paul Heyman and I am the advocate for the next reigning and defending World Heavyweight Champion! One of these two men will be leaving here tonight with the title in his possession, and that is not a prediction. It is a spoiler. First, allow me to introduce to you all to the 'King of Swing,' Antonio Cesaro!" Cesaro's entrance music hit as he made his way out to the stage, a Swiss scarf wrapped around his neck. As Cesaro marched to the ring, Heyman introduced the second of his two clients competing in this match. "The next man is without a shadow of a doubt 2013's fastest-rising star here in WWE and all across the world of sports entertainment! 'That Young Knockout Kid,' Kassius Ohno! Ohno's entrance music would then hit as he made his way out to a similar mixed response that Cesaro received. "Who's your hero!?!" shouted Ohno on his way to the ring, a nod to his days on the independent scene, competing in this very city on several different occasions. Both Cesaro and Ohno stared at each for a bit, Heyman making his way down to ringside to root his two clients on. The entrance music of Daniel Bryan hit as the roof nearly came off of the Allstate Arena. The World Heavyweight Champion made his way down to the ring, chanting "Yes! Yes! Yes!" along with the sold out audience. Once in the ring, Bryan handed the official the World Heavyweight Championship as he stared at both Cesaro and Ohno. "About half an hour from here in a location known as the Frontier Fieldhouse, these three men put on classic bouts for the fans of independent wrestling. Now, they are about to do the same at King of the Ring for the WWE Universe," said Michael Cole, putting over just how big of a deal this match is. Not just for Bryan, Cesaro and Ohno, but for every wrestler on the independent circuit who dreams of one day making it to this level.
TRIPLE THREAT MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP - DANIEL BRYAN VS. ANTONIO CESARO VS. KASSIUS OHNO: When the bell sounded, all three men stood in the ring as the audience traded duel chants of, "Daniel Bryan/Kings of Wrestling!" despite Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno not being referred to by that name in WWE. Cesaro and Ohno both stared at each other for a bit, perhaps finally back on the same page after weeks of teasing dissension. They set their sights on Bryan, who was prepared to fight a 2-on-1 battle. Suddenly, Ohno delivered a Roaring Elbow to the side of Cesaro's head! The 'King of Swing' fell to the canvas like a sack of bricks as Paul Heyman looked on in horror from ringside. Cesaro remained out as Ohno stared at Bryan while pointing at the World Heavyweight Championship. Bryan and Ohno would then begin to trade forearm shots before the defending champion got the upper hand, hitting Uppercuts and getting 'That Young Knockout Kid' into a corner. Bryan backed into the opposite corner and was looking to deliver a Running Dropkick, but Cesaro got back to his feet and drilled the World Heavyweight Champion with a Yakuza Kick! Cesaro then turned his attention to Ohno, hitting him with repeated Uppercuts. Cesaro whipped Ohno into the opposite corner, running into him at full speed with another Uppercut. Cesaro brought Ohno into the center of the ring, bringing him down by his legs and attempting to deliver the Cesaro Swing. However, Bryan got a hold of Cesaro from behind, planting him with a Half Nelson Suplex! Bryan kicked Cesaro out of the ring before focusing on Ohno, hitting him with numerous kicks to the chest as the WWE Universe chanted "Yes!" along with every shot. Bryan, however, failed to connect on the final kick as Ohno rolled him up for a two count. Cesaro slid back into the ring at that point, pushing Ohno into Bryan and knocking the World Champion out of the ring. Cesaro delivered a German Suplex onto Ohno, releasing him nearly halfway across the ring. Cesaro got the cover on his tag team partner, but not the victory. Cesaro would then lift Ohno into a deadlift position, unable to perform a maneuver of any sort as Bryan springboarded off of the top rope and caught Cesaro with a Missile Dropkick! Bryan kipped up to his feet as Cesaro rolled out of the ring, the World Champion running the ropes and launching himself out of the ring with a Suicide Dive. However, Cesaro caught Bryan in mid-air with an Uppercut! As Cesaro took a moment to catch his breath, Ohno ran onto the top turnbuckle and flew off, crashing onto his tag team partner! Ohno stood to his feet and rolled Cesaro into the ring, covering him for the near fall. Ohno would then place Cesaro on the top rope, looking to deliver a Superplex. At that moment, Bryan rolled into the ring and climbed onto the second rope. He was able to get a hold of Ohno and deliver a Suplex from the top rope, leaving Cesaro perched on the top turnbuckle. Bryan would then attempt to deliver a Hurricanrana, but Cesaro held onto the World Heavyweight Champion and placed him in position for a Neutralizer. "No!" yelled out Jerry Lawler as Cesaro hit the maneuver from the top rope! "New champion! That traitor, Cesaro, is going to do it!" stated John Bradshaw Layfield as the audience went wild. Before Cesaro could get the cover, Ohno took him out with a Roaring Elbow! Ohno would cover his tag team partner, but Cesaro was somehow able to kick out! The desperate Ohno then covered Bryan, but Cesaro broke it up before the count of three. Ohno picked Cesaro up to his feet, the two engaging in a war of slaps. Ohno hit a headbutt, which dazed Cesaro a bit. Ohno was looking to connect with a Roaring Elbow, but Cesaro dodged it and managed to lift Ohno into the air and hit a Swiss Death Uppercut! Bryan then began to stir to his feet as Cesaro pushed him into the ropes before throwing him into the air. At that moment, Ohno got back up to his feet and connected with a Yakuza Kick to Cesaro as Bryan crashed onto the canvas. Ohno then grabbed Cesaro, lifting him up and bringing him back down with a Liger Bomb! However, Cesaro was able to kick out at two! "This is awesome!" chants could be heard as Ohno stood to his feet, waiting for either Bryan or Cesaro to do the same. Bryan did so first, resulting in Ohno attempting to strike him with a Roaring Elbow. Bryan, however, managed to catch Ohno's elbow before it could connect with his head, bringing 'That Young Knockout Kid' down to the mat and applying the Yes Lock! Bryan had the hold cinched in, Ohno appearing to be on the verge of submitting. Cesaro broke up the submission by kicking Bryan in the back of the head. Cesaro then lifted Ohno up in a deadlift Suplex position, successfully hitting it. Cesaro brought Ohno back up to his feet, going for a Neutralizer. However, Bryan charged into Cesaro with a Busaiku Knee! Bryan got the cover on the 'King of Swing,' managing to finally get the three count! DANIEL BRYAN RETAINS THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP!
The WWE Universe in Chicago roared as the bell sounded, Daniel Bryan standing to his feet and being declared the winner. He was handed back the World Heavyweight Championship as he raised it high in the air, the audience thunderously chanting "Yes!" repeatedly. Paul Heyman could be seen at ringside with his hands on his head, incredibly disappointed with the outcome. Despite having a 67% percent chance of having a client be victorious, Heyman was unsuccessful. Instead, it is Daniel Bryan who will be leaving here tonight as the World Heavyweight Champion!
| #SteelCage
| Backstage, Cody Rhodes was shown walking towards the locker room area, visibly upset over the fact that he failed to advance to the Finals in the King of the Ring tournament. Josh Mathews approached Rhodes and tried to get a quick interview, but the 'Prince of Pro Wrestling' simply continued to walk. Out of nowhere, he was attacked by The Wyatt Family! Erick Rowan and Luke Harper brutalized Rhodes before handing him off to Bray Wyatt, who delivered Sister Abigail onto the concrete floor! Wyatt rose to his feet and stared down at Rhodes, laughing as the trio left the scene.
A promo was shown for another special live edition of SmackDown, airing this Thursday night on SyFy.
Returning to the live broadcast, the panel from the King of the Ring Kickoff was shown, featuring Renee Young, 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin, Sheamus and Booker T. Renee first mentioned that the Finals in the King of the Ring tournament is now set as Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins will collide later on tonight. "I had picked Alberto Del Rio to win, but I'll give credit where credit is due to Dean Ambrose. That boy showed up here to fight and I think he's going to get the job done and becoming King of the Ring. He's gotta fight through whatever injuries he may have suffered to the head, but if anyone can do it, it's Ambrose," said Booker as the entire panel now believed that the 'Lunatic Fringe' would leave Chicago tonight as the King of the Ring winner. "We also saw the Divas Championship match between AJ Lee and Kaitlyn end in anarchy as Paige hit the ring and attacked both women," said Renee, asking for the thoughts from the panelists. "Paige had every reason in the world to do what she did. Stephanie McMahon, Triple H, they all victimized her and her family. Hats off to Paige, and on that same note, hats off to AJ and Kaitlyn for a hell of a match," Austin said. "AJ has shown that she's willing to put her body on the line if it means being the Divas Championship. We saw that at Extreme Rules in the Last Diva Standing match with barbed wire and thumbtacks, and we saw it again tonight with that dive out of the stands. AJ's got my respect," Booker stated. Lastly, the panel discussed the World Heavyweight Championship match that saw Daniel Bryan overcome Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno to retain the title. "That was one of the best Triple Threat matches I've seen. All three men gave the WWE Universe something to remember and I am damn proud of them. It's guys like Bryan, Cesaro and Ohno that make me glad to be a part of this industry," Austin said. Sheamus then said he's been taken to the limit by all three men before and wasn't surprised to see the kind of match that we did. "Daniel Bryan is still the World Champion, and now, he can sit back and watch the King of the Ring Finals since he very well could be defending the gold against Ambrose or Rollins at SummerSlam," said Sheamus. As Renee was attempting to send things back over to the broadcast team, Ryback appeared in the shot, interrupting the panel. He walked up to Sheamus, the man who he turned his back on this past Friday on SmackDown. "So, instead of trying to get revenge against me like a man, you're out here in a suit and tie talking about other peoples' accomplishments," said Ryback. Sheamus stood to his feet, telling him that now wasn't the time. "When I've got me wrestling boots on and we're in that ring, Ryback, I'll be happy to get the revenge that I am looking for. But now isn't the-" said Sheamus before Ryback slapped him across the face! Booker and Austin quickly held Sheamus back, not wanting the altercation to escalate. "Stupid!" said Ryback before laughing at Sheamus. He left the panel area as Sheamus looked on, the 'Celtic Warrior' fuming.
Shifting gears, a graphic was shown for the Handicap Steel Cage match with the WWE Tag Team Championships on the line. A video package was shown that began with the date "July 18th, 2011" appearing on the screen. It was on that night that Vince McMahon was relieved from all day-to-day activities in WWE, and in the process, Triple H was named the Chief Operating Officer of the organization. This past April, Hunter took charge of RAW and SmackDown after the two brands officially merged, Along with him was a "Committee," which initially consisted of himself, Edge and Ric Flair. After releasing the two of them from their contracts, Stephanie McMahon and Kane joined him in positions of power in WWE. Superstars and Divas such as Randy Orton, Batista, Derrick Bateman and Kaitlyn all aligned themselves with the group, reigning terror over the WWE. At Extreme Rules, Paige and former Committee member, AJ Lee, competed in the most graphic match up in the history of the Divas division. Orton, Batista and Bateman all attempted to get involved, but CM Punk and Wade Barrett decided to insert themselves into the picture in hopes of being able to stop The Committee. Two weeks ago on RAW, Triple H delivered a Pedigree to Paige, which forced Punk and Barrett to declare war against The Committee, now referring to themselves as The Uprising. This past Monday night, Punk, Barrett, Orton and Batista engaged in all-out war that saw Bateman "miraculously" sit up from the wheelchair that he had been bound to since Extreme Rules. While Orton and Batista resent Bateman and his involvement with The Committee, the must remain on the same page tonight in what is sure to be a helacious Steel Cage match for the WWE Tag Team Championships.
After the completion of the video package, the Steel Cage structure was lowered to the ground as the Chicago audience could already be heard chanting CM Punk's name. They didn't have to wait long for the arrival of the hometown hero as the signature static intro to Punk's entrance music was heard. Rather than leading into "Cult of Personality," however, "Revolution" by Pennywise was heard as the titantron displayed brand new Uprising graphics. Punk and Wade Barrett then made their way out to the stage, sporting Uprising t-shirts as they looked out into the sea of WWE Universe members. "It's clobberin' time!" shouted Punk while Barrett threw his elbow into the atmosphere. The two marched down to the ring, walking through the Steel Cage door as they were ready for a battle against three of the most despised superstars on the roster. Motorhead's "King of Kings" would then hit as Randy Orton, Batista and Derrick Bateman made their entrance along with Mr. Money in the Bank's security force, Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury. Rather than walking in through the door, the three Committee members scaled different sides of the cage, climbing down into the ring as Punk and Barrett attacked them, officially getting the match started!
HANDICAP STEEL CAGE MATCH FOR THE WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS - RANDY ORTON, BATISTA & DERRICK BATEMAN VS. CM PUNK & WADE BARRETT: "Uprising!" chants filled the atmosphere in the Allstate Arena as CM Punk and Wade Barrett took the fight to Randy Orton, Batista and Derrick Bateman, successfully able to hold their own for the opening seconds of the bout. Things soon changed, however after Batista grabbed Punk by his head and threw him into one of the Cage walls. Orton and Bateman took Barrett down to the canvas, both men stomping away on him. Bateman placed Punk in a corner as Batista charged into him with a corner Clothesline. Orton whipped Barrett into Punk, causing the two Uprising members to collide with one another. Batista threw Punk to the side as he worked over Barrett for a bit, ramming his shoulder into his mid-section repeatedly. Orton then struck Barrett with right hand shots to the forehead, the 'Bare-Knuckled Fighter' falling to the canvas. Punk tried to get to his feet, but Bateman kicked him in the side. "It's 3-on-2. It only makes sense for The Committee to dominate this match up," said John Bradshaw Layfield on commentary. Batista and Orton planted Barrett with a Batista Bomb/RKO combination before Bateman picked him up off of the canvas, demanding that the cage door be opened. When the official did so, Barrett was thrown out of the Cage structure and onto the floor, taking him out of the match up. "Was that the smart thing for The Committee to do? Barrett has technically escaped the Cage, meaning that if CM Punk can do so as well, The Uprising will be the new WWE Tag Team Champions," said Michael Cole, raising a valid point. "CM Punk is in there with two former WWE Champions and the man who holds the briefcase that practically guarantees him gold in the future. There is no way in hell that Punk survives here in his hometown," Bradshaw stated. Punk tried to get to his feet, but noticed that Orton, Batista and Bateman surrounded him. The 'Best in the World' launched him towards Bateman, but the WWE Tag Team Champions were able to take him down. Bateman and Orton both brought Punk to his feet, throwing him into a Clothesline from Batista. "Hey, make sure he stays out of this," said Bateman to J&J Security, who watched the match from ringside. Noble and Mercury removed their blazers and ties as they dragged Barrett's body over to the Spanish announce table. Mercury removed everything from the table's surface as he and Noble attempted to deliver a double team Suplex to Barrett. However, the 'Bare-Knuckled Fighter' managed to fight out of their grasps, taking their heads and ramming them into each other. The audience came back to life at that point as Barrett hoisted both Mercury and Noble up to his shoulders, laying them out through the announce table with a Double Wasteland! The Committee nearly went into panic mode as Orton began to scale the Steel Cage, escaping it in order to make sure that Barrett remains down. "It's not just Batista and Bateman left against Punk," Lawler said. Orton was quickly at ringside as he went after Barrett, trying to throw him into the barricade. Barrett, however, managed to counter Orton's attempt, the 'Viper' becoming the one to crash into the barricade. Barrett continued his assault on Orton before grabbing a steel chair from the time keeper's area. Batista went for the first near fall of the match after planting Punk with a Spinebuster, but was unable to get the win. Barrett struck Orton in the back with the chair before hitting the Cage with it, demanding that either Bateman or Batista meet him on the outside. "You go get him! I have Punk!" said Bateman to Batista. The 'Animal' was hesitant to leave Bateman alone in the ring, but had enough of Barrett taunting him from the outside. Batista stepped out of the door, meaning that only Punk and Bateman remained in the ring. "Now, only one more escape, pinfall or submission needs to occur between Punk and Bateman. The Committee could have made a grave mistake with their strategy," Cole said on commentary. Batista and Barrett met at ringside, the two powerhouses battling it out. Back in the ring, Bateman attempted to deliver the One Percenter, but Punk countered it into a roll up for the near fall. Bateman got to his feet, but was caught with a Roundhouse Kick! Punk the placed Mr. Money in the Bank onto his shoulders, going for the Go to Sleep. Bateman, however, caught Punk's leg and threw him into the Cage wall. Bateman brought Punk back into the center of the ring, successfully delivering the One Percenter! Bateman got the cover, but somehow, Punk was able to kick out! Bateman's eyes opened wide as he couldn't believe that Punk managed to get a shoulder up in time. At ringside, Barrett took the steel steps out of their position and used them to strike Batista! The 'Animal' fell back onto the floor as Barrett attempted to do the same to Orton. However, Orton was able to trip Barrett, causing him to fall face-first onto the steps. Orton, Barrett, Batista and J&J Security were all down at ringside as Bateman waited for Punk to get back to his feet in the ring. During that, the Chicago audience began to rip Mr. Money in the Bank apart, chanting, "You can't wrestle!" out of anger towards him. Bateman, however, simply smiled yelled out, "I disagree!" and, "I'm very good!" Bateman would then place Punk on his shoulders, looking to spit in not just the face of The Uprising, but the WWE Universe as a whole by finishing off Punk with a GTS of his own. "F*** you, Chicago!" said Bateman, though the sentence was censored on the live broadcast. When Bateman attempted to connect with the Go to Sleep, Punk countered it and planted him with a DDT, Bateman landing right on top of his head! Both men were out on the canvas for a bit until Punk began to crawl towards the Cage wall. The 'Best in the World' was able to scale to the top of the Cage, but did not climb down to the outside. Instead, he looked back at Bateman, the audience getting a feeling of what their hometown hero was thinking. "He's not think of this, is he?" asked Cole on commentary as Punk turned his body around, now standing at the top of the Cage while staring down at Bateman's motionless body. Punk pointed up to the sky with both index fingers before jumping of with a 15-foot high Elbow Drop to Bateman! "Oh my!" yelled out Cole as the Chicago audience went absolutely ballistic! Punk held his arm, but had enough energy to crawl towards the door. "Come on, Punk! Do it!" were the words from Lawler as Punk tried to escape the cage. As he was doing so, Randy Orton was crawling on the outside, trying to shut the door before Punk could escape. It was a race to the finish with Punk and Orton, but ultimately, Punk would just narrowly escape the cage! CM PUNK AND WADE BARRETT WIN THE WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS!
"Punk and Barrett did it! The Uprising has defeated The Committee for the Tag Team Championships!" shouted an ecstatic Michael Cole. The entire audience in the Allstate Arena shared his enthusiasm as they all went wild for The Uprising's victory. Randy Orton, who came within seconds of keeping CM Punk from escaping, held his head, angered and disappointed with the fact that because Derrick Bateman could not successfully put Punk away, he and Batista have lost the WWE Tag Team Titles. Punk and Barrett met near the entrance ramp, the two Uprising members beaten and battered after a helacious Steel Cage match. They were then handed the Tag Team Championships, raising them high in the air. Is the war between The Uprising and The Committee over? Not likely, but tonight, Punk and Barrett managed to gain the upper hand and claim the only pieces of gold that The Committee had to its name! Punk and Barrett, once the worst of enemies, now stand tall at King of the Ring as the brand new WWE Tag Team Champions!
| #RusevvsTruth
| Backstage, Matt Striker was standing by with Tyson Kidd and Natalya. The two stepped into the picture as Striker asked Natalya if she could elaborate on exactly what it was that persuaded her to accept Kidd's proposal for a wedding vow renewal ceremony. "Well, Matt. I tho-" said Natalya before Kidd interrupted. "Before you speak, sweetheart, I just want to say that I hope Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins' match tonight ends in a double count out because then, the WWE will be forced to hold the entire King of the Ring tournament again. Then, I will take my rightful spot on the throne and go on to become champion at SummerSlam. Go on, Nattie," said Kidd, allowing his wife to speak. "I thought about what my life would be like without Tyson, and I just couldn't imagine it. He's been a huge part of my life for so long now and staying with him just feels right." Striker then asked if the two have set a date for their ceremony. "We have, but we-" Natalya said before she was once again interrupted by Kidd. "Oh, and John Cena. You got incredibly lucky against me on SmackDown. I don't care if you beat Bray Wyatt tonight or not. I'll wrestle you again any time. Come to the ceremony. I'll grapple in dress shoes. I don't care," said Kidd before giving the microphone back to Natalya. "We have set a date, but we won't be revealing it until tomorrow night on RAW," said Natalya before Striker congratulated the two on their re-engagement.
SINGLES MATCH - RUSEV VS. R-TRUTH: An unannounced match up as R-Truth attempted to do what no other superstar has been able to do - defeat the 'Super Athlete,' Rusev. During Truth's performance of "What's Up?" during his entrance, Rusev delivered a huge kick to the side of his head! Rusev threw the microphone out of the ring as the official checked on Truth, who managed to get to his feet in the corner. Truth stated that he still wanted to compete, forcing the official to call for the bell to begin the match. Truth may have been better of staying down as Rusev charged into him with a huge splash in the corner before delivering a Fallaway Slam towards the opposite corner. Rusev brought Truth into the center of the ring, stomping on his back before applying the Accolade. Just like that, the match was over as R-Truth quickly submitted. RUSEV DEFEATS R-TRUTH!
"Absolute dominance. There is no way other to describe this monster," said John Bradshaw Layfield as Rusev still had the Accolade in on R-Truth after the match was over. Lana soon stepped into the ring, purposely waiting for more than a few seconds before giving Rusev the command to release Truth. Rusev rose to his feet, Lana raising his arm as the Russian flag dropped from the ceiling.
| #RollinsvsAmbrose
| A promo was shown for the WWE Network, which launches on July 15th, immediately following Monday Night RAW!
Cutting back to the Allstate Arena, the bell sounded as Justin Roberts announced that the following contest is the Finals of the King of the Ring tournament! The entrance music of Seth Rollins hit as the Intercontinental Champion marched down to the ring, set to compete in the biggest match of his career thus far. "He defeated Cody Rhodes earlier in the evening to get to this point. Rollins is a former NXT Champion and the current Intercontinental Champion. He took out Shawn Michaels a number of weeks back on RAW, and a victory in this match would assure him an opportunity at either the WWE or the World Heavyweight Championship on August 18th at SummerSlam," said Cole, setting the stage for Rollins' role in this match. After Rollins was settled in the ring, Dean Ambrose's entrance theme hit to an enormous pop from the Chicago audience. "For Ambrose, it's all or nothing right now. If he wins, he not only gets the SummerSlam title opportunity, but he will regain his job that Triple H and The Committee have attempted to take from him. If he loses, everything will be gone." Ambrose stepped into the ring, immediately getting in Rollins' face. This was it. Sixteen men started in the tournament and we are down to two. Seth Rollins. Dean Ambrose. Who will be the 2013 King of the Ring?
KING OF THE RING FINALS MATCH - INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION SETH ROLLINS VS. DEAN AMBROSE: There was a big fight feel in the atmosphere as Dean Ambrose started the match by catching Seth Rollins with a huge shot to his chin. Ambrose backed the Intercontinental Champion into the ropes before Clotheslining him over and out onto the floor. "I want to quickly remind everyone of the history between these two men. Ambrose and Rollins have only met twice before in the careers, and both times, Rollins came out victorious. History says that the Intercontinental Champion will be the winner, but never count out Dean Ambrose, especially with his career at stake!" said Michael Cole as Ambrose launched himself onto Rollins with a Suicide Dive! Rollins was rolled back into the ring as Ambrose covered him for the two count. Ambrose struck Rollins repeatedly before standing to his feet, holding his head and the commentators mentioned the damage that was done to the 'Lunatic Fringe' in his bout earlier against Alberto Del Rio. As Ambrose was looking to go back on the attack, Rollins kicked him in the shin. Ambrose fell onto one knee, giving Rollins the opening to connect with Avada Kedavra! Rollins covered Ambrose, but was not able to secure the victory at that point. Rollins grabbed Ambrose by his legs, attempting to slingshot him into a corner. Ambrose, however, landed on his feet, climbing onto the top turnbuckle and coming down with a forearm to Rollins! Ambrose picked the Intercontinental Champion up attempted to deliver a Double Underhook DDT, but Rollins fought out of it and planted Ambrose with a Neckbreaker. After Ambrose managed to kick out of that, Rollins ascended to the top turnbuckle. When Ambrose was back on his feet, Rollins attempted to catch him with a Flying Knee to the side of his head, but Ambrose caught Rollins' leg in mid-air! The 'Lunatic Fringe' grasped Rollins' leg, applying a Single-Legged Boston Crab. Rollins writhed in pain, but was able to reach the bottom rope in time. Ambrose brought Rollins up from the canvas, but was pushed towards the ropes. Ambrose bounced with a Jawbreaker Lariat attempt, but Rollins dodged it. When Ambrose around, he was struck with an Enziguri! Ambrose, however, remained on his feet Rollins would proceed to take him down with a Slingblade. The Intercontinental Champion stalked Ambrose and had his sights set on hitting a Curb Stomp, but suddenly, Rollins had another idea. He would then walk to a corner, holding the top rope while stomping his foot repeatedly. "You've got to be kidding me," said Cole as Rollins was attempting to deliver Sweet Chin Music, only further mocking the man who he attacked last month, Shawn Michaels. Ambrose was able to catch Rollins' foot in time, spinning him around before grabbing him for a Suplex. Rollins landed on his feet, pushing Ambrose chest-first into the top turnbuckle. Rollins got a roll up on Ambrose, but the 'Lunatic Fringe' managed to kick out. Ambrose got to his feet and ran towards Rollins, but was caught with Sweet Chin Music! "That's it! Seth Rollins is going to win this tournament with Shawn Michaels' own move!" said John Bradshaw Layfield, but he spoke too soon as Ambrose managed to kick out once again! Rollins was running out of options as he placed Ambrose onto his shoulders, looking for a Powerbomb into the corner. Ambrose was able to thwart the plans of the Intercontinental Champion by sliding off of his shoulders, placing him in position for a Double Underhook DDT and successfully hitting it! Rather than going for a cover, Ambrose backs away and looks for the opening to hit the Boma Ye. Rollins, however, is able to dodge Ambrose's knee, the 'Lunatic Fringe' nearly coming into contact with the official. When Ambrose turned around, he reacted quickly and missed another Sweet Chin Music from Rollins, but the kick caught the official right on the button! Rollins turned around and charged at Ambrose, but was lifted into the air with a Flapjack and brought down onto the top rope. Rollins held his throat on the canvas as Ambrose caught him with the Boma Ye! He got the cover, but there was no referee to make the count. "1! 2! 3! 4! 5!" counted the Chicago audience, showing that if an official were able to make the count, Ambrose would have won. Soon, another official, Scott Armstrong, ran down to the ring as Ambrose kept the cover on Rollins. "1! 2! ........." At that moment, boos filled the Allstate Arena as Armstrong kept his hand in the air, not counting to three. "What the hell is he doing?!? This is the King of the Ring Finals, dammit!" yelled out Michael Cole. Ambrose got to his feet as he stared a hole through Armstrong, uncertain why the new official refused to make the count. Things soon became clear, however, as Triple H made his way out to the stage. Hunter, who had presumably been in hiding since Pedigreeing Paige two weeks ago, looked on at Ambrose with a smile on his face. "You son of a bitch...." said Ambrose before striking Armstrong! The 'Lunatic Fringe' stared at Hunter, knowing very well that he was once again trying to stack the deck against him. As Ambrose shouted at the COO, a man ran into the ring from the audience, everyone in the arena going insane. "NO WAY?!? WHAT!?!?" screamed Cole on commentary, Lawler and Bradshaw speechless. Ambrose was then turned around by AJ Styles, who delivered Blood Sunday, dropping Ambrose right on his head! "THAT'S AJ STYLES!?!? WHAT THE HELL IS HE DOING HERE!?!?" Cole added as Styles stared down at Ambrose before leaving the ring. He made his way up the entrance ramp, standing side-by-side with Triple H. "AJ Styles was in talks with WWE, but the last we heard, he hasn't signed a contract!" Bradshaw stated. Ambrose began to stir, but before he could get to his feet, Rollins capitalized and delivered a Curb Stomp! The Intercontinental Champion covered Ambrose as the original official crawled towards them. "Kick out, Ambrose!" Cole yelled out. "1........2........3!" SETH ROLLINS IS THE 2013 KING OF THE RING!
".......Seth Rollins is King of the Ring.........and Dean Ambrose's career is over," said Michael Cole in a somber tone while a mixed reaction emerged from the Allstate Arena. Triple H and AJ Styles stood next to each other on the stage, the former smiling before they both headed to the backstage area. "This can't be happening. Somebody has to explain this because I don't know how AJ Styles of all people could just run into the ring, attack Dean Ambrose and then stand right next to the most hated man in the WWE," said Jerry Lawler. Seth Rollins rolled out of the ring as he was handed back the Intercontinental Championship, raising it high as he will now have the opportunity to add more gold to his name. At SummerSlam, Rollins will challenge for either the WWE or World Heavyweight Championship. He made his way over to the throne that was set up on the stage, standing on the seat rather than sitting down. "I! TOLD! YOU! SO!" shouted Rollins towards the WWE Universe. Seth Rollins is the 2013 King of the Ring. He has earned a title match at SummerSlam, but as the tournament comes to an end, two major questions now have to be asked. What was AJ Styles doing here at King of the Ring and why did he screw over Dean Ambrose?!?
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| A promo was shown for SummerSlam, featuring the official theme song for the event, "The City" by The 1975. SummerSlam is live on the WWE Network on Sunday, August 18th!
Returning to the Allstate Arena, the commentary team was shown still in a state of shock after what we just witnessed in the Finals of the King of the Ring tournament. AJ Styles, who is NOT a contracted WWE superstar, hit the ring and laid out Dean Ambrose in a set-up that was orchestrated by Triple H, allowing Seth Rollins to get the win and become the 2013 King of the Ring. "All we know is that Seth Rollins is going on to a championship match at SummerSlam, and Dean Ambrose is still fired. We have no idea why AJ Styles was here. How he even got into the building. Why did he leave with Triple H? Hell, where has Hunter been for the past two weeks?" asked John Bradshaw Layfield. "And the night isn't even over yet because coming up next, the WWE Championship will be on the line. John Cena defends against the darkest and most diabolical entity to hit the scene here in WWE for quite some time, Bray Wyatt," said Cole before the signature intro of The Wyatt Family hit. "Chicago......we're here!" said Wyatt as he blew out his lantern. The entrance theme of the 'Eater of Worlds' hit as he made his way down to the ring along with Luke Harper and Erick Rowan, the two men who took out Cody Rhodes earlier in the evening. Thousands of cell phone lights lit the Allstate Arena as Wyatt grinned at the sight of his 'fireflies.' Once he sat down in his rocking chair, Wyatt blew the lantern out once again as the lights re-emerged. "He's got the whole world in his hands," sang a portion of the audience, music to Wyatt's ears. Seconds later, the entrance theme of John Cena hit to a mixed response from the WWE Universe. Cena made his way down to the ring, all business as he didn't event take the time to joke around the cameraman like he normally does. Once in the ring, Cena handed the title over to the official, he displayed it for the entire world to see. After Justin Roberts gave the pre-match introductions, Wyatt and Cena came face-to-face with the WWE Title in between them. Can John Cena stop Bray Wyatt's message from spreading, or will the 'Eater of Worlds' make history by becoming the WWE Champion for the first time in his career?
WWE CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH - JOHN CENA VS. BRAY WYATT: "Let's go, Cena!/Cena sucks!" Those were the chants that could be heard immediately after the bell sounded for the match to begin. Bray Wyatt extended his arms out in front of Cena, laughing maniacally to himself. "The world is mine, Cena!" shouted Wyatt as the WWE Champion delivered a strike to the side of his face. The shot didn't affect Wyatt at all as he turned his head back towards Cena, continuing to smile and laugh. "Do what you can! I am unbreakable!" screamed Wyatt as Cena delivered several more shots. He then hoisted Wyatt up to his shoulders, trying to deliver an Attitude Adjustment immediately. However, Wyatt was able to slide out of Cena's grip and placed him in position for Sister Abigail! Cena was able to push Wyatt away as he backed into a corner, being reminded of something that he already knew heading into tonight - this would be one of the toughest challenges of his career. Wyatt charged at Cena, but the WWE Champion was able to move out of harm's way, getting Wyatt into a corner. Cena caught Wyatt with numerous closed fist shots, but the 'Eater of Worlds' was able to easily turn the tables on Cena. It was now Cena in the corner as Wyatt hit him with a few uppercuts and headbutts. Wyatt took Cena's dazed being and danced with him before throwing the WWE Champion out of the ring. Wyatt made his way to ringside, slamming his fists onto the surface of the announce table while laughing. Wyatt then attempted to hit Cena with a Running Senton, but Cena moved out of harm's way as Wyatt crashed back-first onto the floor. Cena got to his feet and staggered towards the adjacent side of the ring, being met by Erick Rowan and Luke Harper. Cena stared at the two Wyatt Family members briefly before noticing that Wyatt himself was getting back to his feet. Cena tried to go back onto the attack, but Wyatt charged at him with a huge Clothesline. The back of Cena's head bounced off of the floor before Wyatt picked him up to his feet, throwing him face-first into the steel ring post. "I tried to warn you, John! Didn't I warn him?!?" shouted Wyatt as the WWE Universe as they responded in a mixed manner. Wyatt rolled Cena back into the ring, covering him for what turned out to be a two count. Wyatt grabbed Cena's head, catching him with a huge knee strike to the forehead. Wyatt dropped his knee onto Cena's head again before standing over him. Wyatt looked down at his adversary, laughing while singing to himself for a bit. "During the last match, we mentioned that Dean Ambrose had never defeated Seth Rollins and he still wasn't able to. It's the same scenario here. John Cena has never beaten Bray Wyatt, but Bray has beaten Cena twice before," noted John Bradshaw Layfield on commentary. Wyatt threw Cena into a corner before backing into the opposite one. "Sing the lullabies of the tormented with me, my children!" shouted Wyatt before charging at Cena, only to be met with a Lariat from the WWE Champion! Cena took Wyatt down with a Running Shoulder Tackles before hitting a Suplex. Cena raised his hand in the air, receiving his usual mixed reaction from the Chicago audience. "You can't see me!" said Cena to Wyatt before attempting the Five Knuckle Shuffle. However, Wyatt used his hands to lift himself into a spider walk position, Cena stopping in his tracks. Wyatt's upside down grin stared back at Cena as the WWE Champion was at a loss for words. Wyatt rolled onto his front side as Cena ran into him with another Lariat, this time not having any effect on Wyatt. The 'Eater of Worlds' caught Cena's Lariat during a third attempt, quickly planting him with Sister Abigail! The WWE Universe thought that would be the end of the match, but it wasn't so as Cena managed to kick out! Wyatt was noticeably frustrated with the fact that Cena kicked out of his signature maneuver, but simply decided to go for it again. This time, Cena slid out of Wyatt's grasp and hoisted him up to his shoulders! Cena delivered the Attitude Adjustment, but somehow, Bray Wyatt was able to kick out at two! "Cena and Wyatt are going to have to dig deeper if either man wishes to leave here tonight as the WWE Champion," said Bradshaw. Cena would then climb onto the top turnbuckle, leaping off and failing to catch Wyatt with the leg drop across the back of the head. With Cena flat on the canvas, Wyatt lifted him back into position for Sister Abigail. This time, Cena was able to slide out of it and apply a Sleeper Hold. Cena had the cinched in, cutting off Wyatt's oxygen to the point where the 'Eater of Worlds' dropped to one knee. When Wyatt did so, Cena took him down to the canvas and locked in the Crossface! Cena looked to be on the verge of victory, but that was ultimately not the case as Wyatt managed to reach the bottom rope in time. After Cena released the hold, Harper and Rowan pulled Wyatt out of the ring, trying to give their leader time to regain his composure. John Cena, however, was not looking to waste any time as he stepped back onto the top turnbuckle, diving off and crashing onto all three Wyatt Family members! Cena picked Wyatt back up to his feet, rolling him into the ring. Cena got the cover, but Harper was able to grab the referee's leg and pull him out of the ring! Both Harper and Rowan stepped into the ring, attacking Cena. After Harper took the WWE Champion out with Discus Lariat, the Chicago audience could be heard reacting as the United States Champion, Roman Reigns, made his way out through the crowd! "The Wyatt Family took care of Cody Rhodes earlier, but they forgot about Roman Reigns!" said Jerry Lawler on commentary. Reigns slid into the ring and took the fight t Harper and Rowan, taking the latter out with a Superman Punch! Harper got a hold of Reigns' head, but the 'One Man Army' delivered an uppercut to fend him off. After Clotheslining him over the top rope, Reigns exited the ring and drilled Harper with a Spear over the announce table! Roman Reigns looked to be unstoppable as he rolled back into the ring, waiting for Bray Wyatt to get back to his feet. Reigns let out his signature howl before beginning to move his feet. However, it wasn't Wyatt who he drilled with the Spear. Instead, Reigns targeted Cena and damn-near broke the WWE Champion in half!!! "What the hell?!?! Roman?!?! No!!!" shouted Michael Cole on commentary as Reigns stood to his feet, staring down at Cena with a blank expression. A mixed response from the crowd emerged for Reigns, the United States Champion just laying out the WWE Champion with a Spear! Reigns left the ring and made his way back through the crowd, leaving Cena motionless on the canvas. "What did Roman Reigns just do?!?" was the question begged by Bradshaw. Bray Wyatt glanced over at Cena, laughing to himself. The official had gotten back to his feet by that point as Wyatt brought Cena up and into the center of the ring. Instead of attempting to deliver Sister Abigail, Wyatt placed Cena in position for another maneuver - the Tombstone Piledriver. The signature maneuver of the man that Wyatt buried alive back at Extreme Rules, The Undertaker. Wyatt planted Cena onto the top of his head, covering him as the official made the three count. BRAY WYATT WINS THE WWE CHAMPIONSHIP!
A mixture of boos and cheers could be heard throughout the Allstate Arena as Bray Wyatt sat on his knees, smiling and laughing while looking up at the sky. "Here is your winner, and NEW WWE Champion, Bray Wyatt!" was the announcement made by Justin Roberts. Wyatt was handed the WWE Title as he stared at it before yelling out, "It all! Belongs! To! Me!" Wyatt got to his feet and held the title up, standing tall over the fallen John Cena. Several replays from the match were shown, a lot of focus being placed on the finish that saw Roman Reigns make the save for John Cena, only to shock the world and deliver a Spear to the now-former WWE Champion. "Why? Why the hell did Roman Reigns screw John Cena out of the WWE Title?" asked Michael Cole on commentary, thought that question would be left unanswered on this evening. The final shot of the Pay-Per-View broadcast was Bray Wyatt sitting in his rocking chair with the WWE Championship in his arms, capturing the gold at King of the Ring!
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