H̶E̶R̶E̶T̶I̶C̶S̶ Ø: NXT 10/29 and SD Live 10/30

January 11th, 2013 - Miami, FL
Royal Rumble is live in four weeks on Pay-Per-View!

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After the signature WWE intro, we were taken directly to the arena here in Miami as the theme song of Edge hit. The "Rated R Superstar" made his way out to a massive ovation from the WWE Universe as he marched down to the ring for the Cutting Edge. Once in the ring, Edge said that hearing the roar of the audience is something that he will never get tired of. "Since I'm not around that much anymore, it means the world to me to know that each and every one of you still cares," said Edge. He then said that he knows that as of late on SmackDown, there's been a group of people that the WWE Universe may not particularly care for. "They call themselves God's Gifts," he said to a negative response for the mention of the group. "I know, I know. They tick me off too, which is why I am glad that I have the chance to host this special edition of the Cutting Edge here tonight. So ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest. The mastermind behind God's Gifts, the interim SmackDown General Manager, John Bradshaw Layfield!" The crowd booed as JBL made his way down to the ring, all smiles as tonight could be huge for God's Gifts. He took a seat as Edge began to interview him, saying that at the end of the night, God's Gifts could be back on top of SmackDown. JBL took slight offense to the comment, asking what Edge meant when he said that they could be back at the top. "We have always been at the top, whether or not we have championships. But tonight, it's only going to get better. Cody Rhodes will become the rightful #1 contender for the World Heavyweight Championship. Antonio Cesaro and Damien Sandow will become the new WWE Tag Team Champions, and last but certainly not least, Alberto Del Rio will become the new World Heavyweight Champion!" he said to more boos. Edge then said that he noticed something just now. "You said that Cody Rhodes could earn a World Title opportunity, while Alberto Del Rio could actually become the World Champion. So, what would a match between the two for the title at the Royal Rumble mean to the future of God's Gifts?" asked Edge. "If you are in any way suggesting that there will be dissension among the five of us, you and the rest of these morons are sadly mistaken, Edge. God's Gifts is the most united entity in WWE history. Cody and Alberto would have no problem going at it for the title at the Royal Rumble, just like they would have no problem with being defeated by the other," said Layfield. Edge then said that since they have established that God's Gifts is ready for this evening, why don't they just go ahead and talk about the real reason why the "Rated R Superstar" is here this evening. "You know, John, you have been the interim General Manager for quite some time now, right?" asked Edge. He told JBL that the entire world is just waiting for Teddy Long to return to SmackDown and take back his job. "Well, you might be in luck with that, John. I was informed earlier today that Teddy Long will unfortunately not be returning to SmackDown," said Edge. JBL was ecstatic, throwing his cowboy hat into the air while the crowd jeered. Edge cut JBL's celebration, though. "However, just because Teddy will not be returning does not mean that you are the new General Manager," said Edge. JBL lashed out at him, asking what in the hell he meant by that. "Of course that means that I am the new General Manager! For heaven's sake, I am the interim General Manager. What on earth are you trying to say?!?" asked a frustrated Layfield. "Well, it goes like this, John. What if I told you that the Board of Directors have already appointed a new General Manager? What if I told you that he is here tonight? What if I told you......that he is standing in this ring right now?" asked Edge as the audience erupted. JBL shook his head repeatedly as Edge made the official announcement. "What if I told you that the new General Manager of SmackDown is a ten-time champion? What if I told you that the new General Manager is none other than the 'Rated R Superstar?' Basically, what I am trying to say is that the new General Manager of Friday Night SmackDown is me!" said Edge as the roof nearly came off of the arena. JBL was livid, shouting that this was nothing but crap. "So, uh, how about you get out of my ring, JBL?" asked the new GM. Layfield stormed out of the ring and up the entrance ramp as Edge remained in the ring, throwing up the horns while the crowd continued to cheer heavily. Edge is the new General Manager of SmackDown!

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Returning to Friday Night SmackDown, a recap of the opening segment was shown as a bombshell was dropped on the entire WWE. The "Rated R Superstar" Edge has officially been named as the new General Manager of SmackDown! 

RANDY ORTON DEF. SHEAMUS
Kicking off the "Rated R Era," as Booker T put it, was a rematch from two weeks ago when Randy Orton showed a different side by attacking Sheamus following a loss. Unlike that encounter, there was no show of respect between the two here tonight. Orton and Sheamus were simply out to defeat the other and gain momentum heading into the Royal Rumble match in a little less than three weeks. After planting Sheamus with a rope-hung DDT, the "Viper" began to coil as he was looking to hit the RKO. He attempted it, but Sheamus was able to push him away. The "Celtic Warrior" then went for a Brogue Kick, but Orton was able to dodge it. He then rolled Sheamus up with a handful of tights to steal the victory.

The audience booed as Randy Orton rolled out of the ring as he had just stolen a victory from Sheamus. Orton simply smirked at the "Celtic Warrior" while doing his signature pose on the entrance ramp. The commentators noted that this sudden change in Orton's attitude may be what is needed in order for the "Viper" to be the one to win the Royal Rumble match and go on to headline WrestleMania XXIX.

Backstage, God's Gifts was shown in the locker room area, all members disgruntled after the announcement that Edge is now the General Manager of SmackDown. JBL assured that despite this setback, everything would still go as planned tonight. "Cody, you will become the new #1 contender. Damien and Antonio, you two will become the new WWE Tag Team Champions, and Alberto, you will become the new World Heavyweight Champion. Plus, I am allowed to make one more act as the interim General Manager. Everything will be fine," he said. Rhodes then told Layfield that he doesn't know what he was talking about earlier in the ring with Edge, but he does have a problem with taking a loss at the Royal Rumble. "I don't give a damn if Alberto Del Rio is the World Heavyweight Champion when I get my rematch. I will do anything and everything to beat you, Alberto, and reclaim my World Heavyweight Title. Even if that means that I have to break your neck and end your career, just like I did to Kurt Angle," said Rhodes. He and Del Rio then began to exchange words as JBL broke it up. "This is exactly what we don't need right now! This is a unit, dammit! I expect the two of you to start acting like stablemates! It doesn't matter who is the World Heavyweight Champion, so long as the title is back with us!" said Layfield. "But it does matter. It matters more than any of you will ever understand," said Rhodes before leaving the room.

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AJ LEE DEF. KAITLYN
This past Monday on RAW, Kaitlyn managed to score a victory over the Divas Champion Paige, gaining a huge measure of momentum heading into her championship opportunity at the Royal Rumble. Tonight, she competed against the women who she defeated to become the #1 contender, AJ Lee. AJ attempted to apply the Black Widow submission hold, but Kaitlyn was able to counter it into a backbreaker across her knee. Kaitlyn measured AJ for a Spear, but at that moment, the entrance music of Paige hit to a massive ovation. Kaitlyn turned her attention to the stage, waiting for the "Anti Diva" to show herself. AJ capitalized and swept the legs of Kaitlyn, following that up with a Shining Wizard to pick up the victory.

AJ Lee stood to her feet, the audience popping as she had just defeated the #1 contender for the Divas Championship. AJ made her way up to the entrance ramp as the Divas Champion, Paige, emerged from the back! She raised AJ's arm while Kaitlyn shouted at the two of them, the "Anti Diva" gaining a bit of revenge against the women who she will meet at the Royal Rumble.

Backstage, Daniel Bryan was shown walking down a corridor. He meets Cody Rhodes in a #1 contenders match, next on SmackDown!

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A promo was shown for next Monday's 20th Anniversary edition of RAW. After defeating Seth Rollins this past week, John Cena will take on another one of the WWE's strong up and comers in Roman Reigns. Plus, what is next Bray Wyatt and the Wyatt Family after the former took out both Triple H and Stephanie McMahon? RAW, live next Monday on USA.

#1 CONTENDERS MATCH
CODY RHODES DEF. DANIEL BRYAN
A lot riding on the line as the winner of this match would go on to challenge the World Heavyweight Champion at the Royal Rumble, whether that be Dolph Ziggler or Alberto Del Rio. Much like their match back at Bragging Rights, the audience was at the edge of its seat as several near falls came for both competitors. After Bryan failed to connect with a running corner Dropkick, Rhodes picked him up off of the canvas and delivered Cross Rhodes to gain the win.

The WWE Universe expressed their displeasure for the outcome as Cody Rhodes stood to his feet, staring intensively at the camera. A banner appeared at the bottom of the screen to officially declare him as the new #1 contender for the World Heavyweight Championship. Whether it is against Dolph Ziggler or Alberto Del Rio, Rhodes will have the chance to regain the World Title at the Royal Rumble.

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Returning to Friday Night SmackDown, Daniel Bryan was shown walking through the hallways, disappointed that he will not be heading into the Royal Rumble with a World Heavyweight Championship opportunity. As Renee Young tried to get his thoughts following the loss, she was interrupted by John Bradshaw Layfield. After telling Renee to scram, he told Bryan that he has a way to make up this loss to him. "You see, Edge allowed me one final order as the interim General Manager of SmackDown, and now, I know what it is going to be. So congratulations, Daniel. You are officially in the Royal Rumble match!" said Layfield as Bryan stared at him in anger. Before Layfield left, however, he added something to the announcement that had just made seconds ago. "Oh, I am sorry, Daniel. I forgot to mention something. You are going to enter the Royal Rumble as the number one entrant." JBL then walked away as the WWE Universe could be heard chanting, "No!"

TYSON KIDD DEF. BIG SHOW
This match came to be as a result of what occurred last week between these two. While Big Show is on a hunt to run through the locker room heading into the Royal Rumble match. Tyson Kidd would not stand for it, though, standing up for himself and everyone else that Show has tried to bully. Show looked to deliver a Chokeslam to finish the bout, but Kidd was able to counter it into a DDT. With Show down on the canvas, Kidd delivered a Springboard Elbow Drop to score the upset victory!

The WWE Universe erupted as Tyson Kidd rolled out of the ring, just as stunned as everyone else at the result. Tyson Kidd just defeated the Big Show! While Kidd celebrated his victory, Show stood to his feet, livid out of his mind. He let out several shouts of anger while Kidd stood on the stage, scoring perhaps the biggest victory of his career here tonight.

Backstage, Matt Striker was standing by with the World Heavyweight Champion, Dolph Ziggler, and the WWE Tag Team Champions, Wrestling Royalty. He asked the three of them for their thoughts heading into tonight's Tables, Ladders and Chairs match. Ted DiBiase said that for those keeping score at home, tonight makes 283 days for himself and Joe Hennig as the WWE Tag Team Champions. "That number will not mark the end," he added. Ziggler then said that the same goes for him. "21 days doesn't sound nearly as impressive, but my reign as World Heavyweight Champion won't stop there. DiBiase and Hennig will go out there tonight and prove why tag team wrestling is what they do better than anyone else in the game at the moment, and I will show why wrestling is, like, the fifth best thing that I do. Tonight, we steal the show and this moment from God's Gifts," said Ziggler.

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Returning to Friday Night SmackDown, a recap of the opening segment from earlier in the evening was shown. A bombshell was dropped on John Bradshaw Layfield and the entire WWE Universe when the "Rated R Superstar" Edge announced that he has been named as the new General Manager of SmackDown.

Cutting to the area, the entrance music of Dean Ambrose hit as the Intercontinental Champion made his way down to the ring to a ton of heat from the audience. Ambrose took a microphone, saying that the world probably didn't expect to see this sight. "Soak it in, everyone, because the 'Diamond in the Rough' is still the Intercontinental Champion!" he said to even more boos. Ambrose added that the world expected their hero, Chris Jericho, to defeat him last week for the gold. But, just like he has been saying all along, a fossil can never compete with a diamond. "Now you take a look around you and you ask yourself, 'Where is Jericho?' I'll tell you where he is. Chris Jericho has resumed his little sabbatical, claiming that he and his band have some obligations to fulfill. However, we all know that that's nothing more than Jericho's excuse. The reality is that I ran him out of here. You're never going to see Chris Jericho again in this ring, and you all have me to thank for it," said Ambrose. He then said that rather than looking back on the past, he wants to focus on the future. "The future lies within me, your Intercontinental Championship, because in three weeks, I will become the first man to hold this title and win the Royal Rumble match. From there, I go on to WrestleMania to add more gold to my name. Maybe, I will accomplish what the world has been expecting me to here on SmackDown and become the new World Heavyweight Champion, something that quite frankly should have happened already. Or maybe, I'll go to RAW and show CM Punk who the 'Best in the World' truly is by becoming the WWE Champion. Either way, I will bring more prestige to the Intercontinental Championship than ever before by becoming a World Champion in the main event of WrestleMania. Let that be a warning for everyone who is entering the Royal Rumble, as well as our new General Manager, Edge. 'Rated R Superstar' is a thing of the past. 'Explicit Ambrose Violence' is about to take over the WWE, and there isn't a damn thing that anyone can do to stop me." Ambrose threw the microphone onto the ground, claiming victory in the Royal Rumble match in three weeks.

Backstage, Daniel Bryan was shown speaking with the new SmackDown General Manager, Edge. The "Rated R Superstar" told Bryan that despite what JBL says, he does not have to enter the Royal Rumble match as the number one entrant. "I can overturn Bradshaw's decision in an instant," said Edge. Bryan thanked him for the offer, but claimed that he doesn't want it. "I've spent my entire career proving people wrong, so if entering the Royal Rumble at number one and winning the whole thing is what I need to do to shut JBL and God's Gifts up once and for all, then that's what I am going to do," said a determined Bryan.

A graphic was shown for the Tables, Ladders and Chairs match for the World Heavyweight and WWE Tag Team Championships, which is coming up next on SmackDown!

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A promo was shown for the Royal Rumble, live Sunday January 27th, only on Pay Per View.

TABLES, LADDERS AND CHAIRS MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT AND WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS
DOLPH ZIGGLER AND WRESTLING ROYALTY DEF. ALBERTO DEL RIO, ANTONIO CESARO AND DAMIEN SANDOW
Perhaps the best main event that SmackDown has seen in quite some time. With multiple championships on the line, but teams threw everything but the kitchen sink at each other. Notable big spots included Ziggler leaping off of a ladder, only to be caught with an Uppercut from Cesaro, Wrestling Royalty lifting a ladder that Alberto Del Rio was on and tossing him out of the ring, and Ziggler delivering a Zig Zag to Damien Sandow off of the ring apron through a table. Towards the end of the match, the entire face team was down as Del Rio began to scale one ladder, Cesaro and Sandow doing the same on another. Suddenly, Ziggler, DiBiase and Hennig were all able to get to their feet, pushing the two ladders over! Del Rio crashed through one table, while Sandow and Cesaro fell through a set of tables on the opposite side of the ring! The audience roared as Ziggler and Wrestling Royalty climbed ladders, retrieving their respective championships.

The WWE Universe went berserk as Dolph Ziggler and Wrestling Royalty stood on their ladders while raising the World Heavyweight and WWE Tag Team Championships high in the air. As they did so, Cody Rhodes and John Bradshaw Layfield made their way out to the stage. Rhodes stared at Ziggler while the "Show Off" draped the World Title over his shoulder. We now know that in three weeks at the Royal Rumble, the rematch will take place. Dolph Ziggler will defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Cody Rhodes!

January 14th, 2013 - Houston, TX
Royal Rumble is live in two weeks on Pay-Per-View!

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After the signature WWE intro, a special opening video was shown that compiled every RAW intro since the inception of the show in 1993. Pyro blasted in the arena as cameras scanned the red hot audience here in Houston. A joint commentary team of Michael Cole, Jerry "The King" Lawler and Booker T welcome everyone to the 20th Anniversary of Monday Night RAW! Both RAW and SmackDown superstars are present here tonight for what is sure to be a jam-packed show. A graphic was shown for the match that has been hyped all week, John Cena going one on one with Roman Reigns! Plus, the WWE Champion will battle the World Heavyweight Champion as CM Punk takes on Dolph Ziggler. Lastly, the first inductee in the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2013 will be revealed. All of that and much, much more on the 20th Anniversary of RAW!

The signature of the Wyatt Family hit as boos quickly emerged from the crowd. "Houston.......we're here!" said Bray Wyatt before blowing out his lantern. Wyatt made his way out to the stage along with the rest of the Wyatt Family members, Luke Harper, Erick Rowan and Kane. Once in the ring, Wyatt sat down in his rocking chair with a sadistic grin spread across his face. "Hunter Helmsley sat on a wall, Hunter Helmsley had a great fall. All the king's horses and all the king's men, couldn't put Hunter together again.....hahaha......." sang Wyatt. "Last Monday, the next step towards claiming the kingdom was taken. And my oh my, was it a vital step! The hierarchy tumbled at my feet! Down fell not only the king......but so did his queen." A video package was then shown to recap the events that Bray Wyatt was speaking of. The "Eater of Worlds" was scheduled to meet Triple H one on one, but the Wyatt Family had different plans. Taking Stephanie McMahon hostage, Wyatt was able to lure Hunter into his trap, delivering Sister Abigail in the center of the ring. However, Wyatt then decided to take things even further by doing the same to Stephanie. Returning to the arena, Wyatt laughed maniacally before saying that he warned everyone that he would bring a vacancy upon the throne. "The hunter became the hunted, and now I take my place as the castle's conductor. Brick by brick, the land will crumble and my family and I will rebuild it with the vision that the Gods have dreamt of! My world becomes your nightmare at this very moment.......he's got the whole world in his hands......" said Wyatt as he continued to sing while taking the microphone away from his mouth.

Shortly thereafter, the WWE Universe came unglued as entrance song of Vince McMahon hit. "Oh my God...." said Michael Cole as the Chairman of the WWE stepped out onto the stage! Vince started by saying that even though this is supposed to be an evening of celebration, Bray Wyatt has made it anything but that. "I appreciate talent like you, Bray. You show viciousness, ruthless aggression and no mercy in that ring! That's what I need from the superstars to show one another. However, it's a different story when you show all of those things to my family," he said. "You made a statement by attacking my son-in-law, Triple H, last month. Hunter was willing to take matters into his own hands, though, and I allowed him to. But then......you and your 'family' crossed a line that should never even be glanced at. You placed your hands on a defenseless woman who not only happens to be one of the principle owners of this company, but she is also my little girl," added Vince to a pop from the crowd. He then said that if Wyatt wants to take over the empire that is the WWE, then why doesn't he step up to the man who built the empire? "Bray Wyatt, if someone is going to have to stop you, then it's going to be me!" said Vince to even more cheers, officially challenging Wyatt to match. Wyatt laughed in the ring, as did the rest of his family members. "Hahaha, the old geezer wants to dance with the devil?!?! I accept!" shouted Wyatt. The WWE Universe continued to go wild as the commentators could not believe what they were hearing. On the 20th Anniversary of Monday Night RAW, the Chairman of the company, Vince McMahon, will look to avenge his family against Bray Wyatt!

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Returning to the 20th Anniversary of Monday Night RAW, a recap of the shocking opening segment was shown. Live here tonight from Houston, Vince McMahon will make his return to the ring for one night only to take on the man who laid out his son-in-law and daughter last week, Bray Wyatt!

THE REAL AMERICANS W/ ZEB COLTER DEF. UNITED STATES CHAMPION ROB VAN DAM & KOFI KINGSTON
Kicking off the action here on RAW's 20th Anniversary was a tag team match pitting Zeb Colter's new team of Jack Swagger and Shelton Benjamin, The Real Americans, against Kofi Kingston and the new United States Champion, Rob Van Dam. Prior to the start of the bout, it was revealed that all four of these men will be competing in the Royal Rumble match. Along with that, Colter stated on commentary that Swagger will be invoking his rematch clause against Rob Van Dam next week, so there was a lot of momentum riding on the line. After knocking Swagger out of the ring, Van Dam delivered a somersault over the top rope. This left Benjamin and Kofi as the legal men in the ring. As Kofi was coming off of the top rope with a hammer fist, Benjamin managed to catch him in mid-air with the Paydirt! Kofi was out as Benjamin covered him with the hook of both legs to grab the victory for the Real Americans.

The audience expressed their displeasure for the outcome as Shelton Benjamin rolled out of the ring, Colter helping Swagger up to his feet before the joined Benjamin on the entrance ramp. Rob Van Dam checked on Kofi Kingston in the ring while staring at the Real Americans, who all shouted, "We the people!" along with some members of the WWE Universe. The Real Americans pick up the momentum heading into Swagger's rematch against Van Dam next week for the Intercontinental Champion.

Backstage, Renee Young was standing by with the WWE Champion, CM Punk. The "Best in the World" stepped into the interview set along with Paul Heyman as Renee asked for his thoughts heading into tonight's champion versus champion match against the World Heavyweight Champion, Dolph Ziggler. Punk said that he has no concerns about Ziggler. "This is something that I am actually excited before, because last July, Ziggler ruined a perfect moment by cashing in his Money in the Bank contract. But, is he the WWE Champion right now? Is the the 'Best in the World?' No. Instead, Ziggler is walking around with a title that he wishes was the one that I currently hold." When Renee tried to ask a question regarding his Steel Cage match against Wade Barrett last week, Paul Heyman cut her off. "This interview has nothing to do with what happened last week. My client, CM Punk, retained the WWE Championship and that's that. If you have no other question pertaining to this evening, then this interview is over," said Heyman before he and Punk left.

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Returning from the commercial break, Fandango was shown making his entrance as the Prime Time Players and Heath Slater were all in the ring. Soon, "Feed me!" blared over the PA system as the crowd roared for the arrival of Ryback! He marched down to the ring, set to compete in another Over-the-Top Rope challenge.

OVER-THE-TOP ROPE CHALLENGE
RYBACK DEF. FANDANGO, DARREN YOUNG, TITUS O'NEIL & HEATH SLATER
Three RAW superstars and one SmackDown superstar, all competing in the Royal Rumble in less than two weeks, were looking to stop Ryback's momentum in this challenge. However, Ryback was able to run through all of them, first throwing over Darren Young and Titus O'Neil simultaneously. Heath Slater delivered a Dropkick to his back, believing that he had eliminated him. "3MB, baby!" shouted Slater as Ryback turned around and stared at him. Ryback then grabbed Slater, throwing over and out onto the floor. Ryback was then momentarily stunned by a few kicks from Fandango. As the "Smooth Superstar" was charging towards him, Ryback delivered a Meathook Clothesline, following that up with Shell Shocked. Ryback picked Fandango up off of the canvas, eliminating him to wint he match.

Ryback put both of his arms into the air as the WWE Universe cheered him on after another impressive showing. "Feed me more!" he shouted repeatedly as he continues his roll heading into the Royal Rumble. Suddenly, a large man hit the ring and delivered a Spinning Heel Kick to Ryback! The man continued to stomp away on him as a woman with blonde hair could be seen at ringside. The commentators and audience were all puzzled as to who this man was, but he was decimating Ryback like no one has been able to! He lifted Ryback into position for a Sidewalk Slam. "Rusev......crush!" shouted the blonde woman before Ryback was planted onto the canvas. The unknown man stood tall over Ryback before heading up the entrance ramp with the blonde woman.

Backstage, Alberto Del Rio, Damien Sandow and Antonio Cesaro were shown in the locker room area as they will be teaming with Randy Orton tonight in Eight Man Tag Team action. Speaking of the "Viper," he soon entered the room as he stared down the three God's Gifts members. Orton said that the first thing he wanted to make clear tonight is that unlike them, he has beaten every single member of the opposing team tonight. "Sheamus, Ted DiBiase, Joe Hennig, Daniel Bryan, I have beaten all of them before, and that's something that none of you can say. On top of that, I'm the only person here who actually won his match on SmackDown last Friday. So if you three want to win tonight, then I suggest that you just sit back and follow my lead," said Orton. Del Rio respond in a hostile manner, telling Orton that they weren't going to take orders from a man with no class such as himself. "No class? Guess what, Alberto? Class doesn't win wrestling matches. Class isn't going to get any of you three to the main event of WrestleMania, now is it? We all already know that I am going to win the Royal Rumble match, so what's the point in fighting me about it?" asked an angered Orton before leaving the room, not caring much for his team in tonight's match.

A graphic was shown for the champion versus champion match pitting WWE Champion CM Punk against World Heavyweight Champion Dolph Ziggler. It happens next, live on the 20th Anniversary of RAW!

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CHAMPION VS. CHAMPION
WWE CHAMPION CM PUNK W/ PAUL HEYMAN DEF. WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION DOLPH ZIGGLER
A fantastic way to round out the first hour as the WWE's two top tier champions battled it out. Surprisingly, the audience seemed to be split in the middle as there were occasional chants for both Punk and Ziggler. Punk looked to be in control in the closing moments of the match, but Ziggler was able to find one last surge of energy after countering the Go To Sleep into the Fameasser. He began to stalk Punk, looking for the Zig Zag. However, Cody Rhodes, the number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship, came rushing into the ring. Ziggler dodged a shot from Rhodes, catching him with a Superkick! Ziggler kicked Rhodes out of the ring, but when he turned around, Punk hoisted him up to his shoulders and successfully hit the Go To Sleep to gain the win.

A mixed reaction emerged as Paul Heyman entered the ring, handing CM Punk back his WWE Championship. On the outside, Cody Rhodes crawled towards the entrance ramp, holding his jaw while glad that he was able to prevent his opponent at the Royal Rumble gain momentum here tonight. As Punk and Heyman celebrated this victory, the entrance music of Wade Barrett hit to a huge pop. He made his way out to the stage as Punk seemed annoyed by his presence. Barrett congratulated Punk on his victory, though he questioned whether or not he deserved to be in this match just now. "Champion versus champion, though I am sure that had it not been for Paul Heyman, you wouldn't even be a champion at the moment," said Barrett as Punk could be heard asking, "What does it matter?" Barrett then said that because of the circumstances in which Punk retained his title last week, he will be receiving one more shot for the WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble. The aggravated Punk then asked, "Oh, and let me guess, Wade. Heyman is banned from ringside so you can claim that the match will be fair, am I right?" Barrett told Punk that he actually couldn't be any more wrong. "I don't want Heyman barred from ringside. I want him there. I want Heyman to get involved, and as a matter of fact, he will be involved....." said Barrett as Heyman seemed confused by his comments. "At the Royal Rumble, it's going to me versus CM Punk.....and Paul Heyman in a Handicap match for the WWE Championship!" said Barrett as the crowd erupted. Heyman's eyes were widened as Punk threw a fit in the ring. At the Royal Rumble, Barrett will take on Punk and Heyman in a Handicap match, meaning that Heyman could possibly lose the WWE Championship for his client! 

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Returning to RAW's 20th Anniversary, a recap of the previous segment was shown as we now know that at the Royal Rumble, CM Punk will put his WWE Championship on the line with Paul Heyman as his tag team partner against Wade Barrett. The commentators discussed the possibility of Heyman being responsible for Punk losing the WWE Title at the Royal Rumble. Shifting gears, it was now time to reveal the first inductee in the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2013. The screen faded to black as chants of, "Thank you, Foley!" could be heard. A video package was then shown featuring "Miracle" by Shinedown as the "Hardcore Legend," Mick Foley was revealed as the inductee!

As the video package came to a conclusion, the WWE Universe began chanting Foley's name before the signature crash-intro of his entrance music was heard. Mick Foley then made his way out to a thunderous ovation from the audience. Michael Cole, Jerry Lawler and Booker T all stood up from their seats at the announce table to give Foley a standing ovation as he stepped into the ring. The crowd continued to chant his name as Foley was clearly a bit emotional. "Thank you all very much for the warm reception. I couldn't think of a better place to make this announcement than right here in Houston, Texas!" he said before giving a thumbs up. He then said that being the first inductee revealed for the Hall of Fame this year is one of the proudest accomplishments of his life. "Not only is going into the Hall of Fame a huge deal, but the thought of being inducted in Madison Square Garden is completely surreal," he added. Foley said that as part of his induction, the WWE has decided to make this Friday's edition of SmackDown 'Mick Foley Appreciation Night.' "I'll have plenty of time to speak on April 6th at the Hall of Fame ceremony, so right now, I'm just going to give the spotlight back to the people who really matter at this time, and that's the current WWE superstars. But, thank you all for the response, thank you to the WWE for the Appreciation Night on SmackDown this week, and most of all, thank you for making this kid from Long Island a soon-to-be Hall of Famer." Foley placed the microphone on the mat before exiting the ring to another round of applause.

A graphic was shown for tonight's main event. Vince McMahon returns to the ring to take on Bray Wyatt! That match is still to come on the 20th Anniversary of Monday Night RAW.

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Returning from the commercial break, Derrick Bateman and Maxine were shown in the locker room, the two of them arguing. "You still haven't answered my question, Derrick. Why did Evan go home?" asked Maxine. Bateman said that he wasn't sure about anything other than that Evan Bourne claimed that he didn't need the money anymore. "The guy gets embarrassed by The Rock one time and runs away. At least he left before I could pay him," said Bateman. The angry Maxine then asked when she would be paid. "Not the concern right now. The Rock wanted to embarrass me? Well, too bad for him, because tonight, I have the chance to show the world that I deserve to be taken seriously in the Royal Rumble when I wrestle against the only man on this roster who I know is more despised than me, The Miz," said Bateman before Maxine asked one more time when she would be getting paid. "........Maybe The Rock was right," said Bateman before leaving the ring as Maxine followed him, shouting, "And what is that supposed to mean?!"

EIGHT MAN TAG TEAM MATCH
WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS WRESTLING ROYALTY, DANIEL BRYAN & SHEAMUS DEF. ALBERTO DEL RIO, ANTONIO CESARO, DAMIEN SANDOW & RANDY ORTON
The SmackDown brand took center stage for this bout as eight of the participants in the Royal Rumble match collided. Daniel Bryan, who will enter the Rumble at number one, looked to be on fire during the match, delivering Dropkicks to everyone on the opposing apron, following that up with a Suicide Dive through the second rope! Bryan later nearly had the victory over Antonio Cesaro as he was able to apply the LeBell Lock before Orton broke it up. This caused Sheamus to get involved, and eventually, Wrestling Royalty and God's Gifts did the same. Their brawl spilled to the outside as Bryan and Cesaro were left in the ring exchanging Uppercuts. Cesaro got the better of Bryan, whipping him against the ropes and looking for the Swiss Death Uppercut. Bryan was able to counter it into a small package roll up, but Cesaro kicked out in time. He then attempted to strike with a Clothesline, but Bryan dodged it and caught Cesaro with the Busaiku Knee to grab the win for his team.

The WWE Universe popped huge as Daniel Bryan stood to his feet before Sheamus and Wrestling Royalty joined him in the ring. Alberto Del Rio and Damien Sandow were down on the outside while Randy Orton stood to his feet, furious over the loss. He marched up the entrance ramp, staring at the celebrating faces. Bryan led the audience in a massive "Yes!" chant while he stared at Sheamus, DiBiase and Hennig, who all knew that while they were celebrating as a unit here tonight, it would be every man for himself in thirteen nights.

Backstage, John Cena was shown walking down a hallway. He meets Roman Reigns, next!

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JOHN CENA DEF. ROMAN REIGNS W/ BRAD MADDOX VIA DISQUALIFICATION
After defeating Seth Rollins last week, John Cena found himself against another one of RAW's young up and comers. Roman Reigns took Cena to the limit, looking like a main event player. As Cena was going for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, Reigns quickly stood to his feet and delivered the Superman Punch! Reigns backed into a corner, punching the canvas before letting out a primal scream. He stalked Cena, looking for a Spear to pick up the biggest win of his career. As he was charging, Cena managed to trip him and apply the STF! Reigns, at one point, was actually able go grab Cena's arms and pull them apart, but Cena delivered a few elbow strikes before reapplying the hold. Before Reigns could submit, Seth Rollins hit the ring and attacked Cena, causing the disqualification finish.

Boos emerged from the crowd as Rollins stomped away on Cena before Reigns joined in on the attack. The two young guns continued their assault until the theme of The Rock hit. The roof nearly came off of the arena as the "Great One" ran down to the ring, delivering strikes to both Rollins and Reigns. He was able to toss Reigns over the top rope before sending Rollins out as well with an overhead slam. Reigns, Rollins and Brad Maddox all retreated up the entrance ramp as Cena stirred to his feet, staring at The Rock. "I need you at your fullest," said Rock to Cena, wanting him to be 100% come the Royal Rumble. Suddenly, Vince McMahon made his way out to the stage. He said that after seeing all of this transpire, an idea came to him. "I made one huge announcement earlier, and dammit, since it's the 20th Anniversary of Monday Night RAW, I'll go ahead and make another one. Next week, it's going to be Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns teaming up to take on John Cena.......and The Rock!" The crowd went ballistic as Rock and Cena stared at one another. For the first time in a decade, The Rock will be in action on RAW next week from San Jose!

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Returning to the live broadcast, a recap of the previous segment was shown, featuring a massive announcement from Vince McMahon. Next week, The Rock will compete on Monday Night RAW for the first time in a decade! He teams with John Cena to battle Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns! Six days before the Royal Rumble, how will Rock and Cena be able to co-exist against two of RAW's hottest up and comers?

NON-TITLE MATCH
DIVAS CHAMPION PAIGE DEF. TAMINA
With her Divas Championship defense against Kaitlyn coming up at the Royal Rumble, Paige found herself competing another one of the WWE's stronger Divas, Tamina. The "Anti Diva" was able to remain in control for most of the match, though there appeared to be a turning point after Tamina caught her with a Superkick. Tamina ascended up to the top rope, but failed to connect with the Superfly Splash. Paige capitalized by delivering the Paige Turner to grab the win.

Paige stood to her feet as she was handed the Divas Championship, celebrating with the rest of the WWE Universe members in Houston. All of a sudden, clapping could be heard as Kaitlyn appeared on the screen. She congratulated Paige on her victory, saying that it could be one of her last before the Royal Rumble. "I pinned you in the middle of that ring last week. I have proven that I can beat you, and then on SmackDown, what did you prove? You proved that you're nothing more than a sore loser. So, Paige. If you want to take this time to prove anything, I'm right here." Paige then quickly exited the ring, heading to search for Kaitlyn in the backstage area. Cameras then followed the Divas Champion as she shouted for Kaitlyn to show herself. When Paige turned a corner, a loud thud could be heard. The camera caught up to the scene as we saw Kaitlyn standing over Paige with a dumbbell in her hand, presumably one from the training facility of Paige's family that she trashed a number of weeks ago. Official were soon there to restrain Kaitlyn while tending to the Divas Champion, who was not responsive at all.

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Returning to the 20th Anniversary of RAW, a graphic was shown for this Friday's edition of SmackDown. After the events of one of this evening's match ups, WWE Champion CM Punk and Wade Barrett will pay the blue brand a special visit to compete in tag team action with Cody Rhodes and World Heavyweight Champion Dolph Ziggler respectively. Plus, another champion versus champion match will take place when the United States Champion Rob Van Dam competes against Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose. All of that and more on Mick Foley appreciation night, this Friday on SmackDown from San Antonio!

DERRICK BATEMAN W/ MAXINE DEF. THE MIZ
Another opportunity for Derrick Bateman to prove himself as a contender for the Royal Rumble match as he went up against a former two-time WWE Champion. Miz picked up a bit of steam later on in the match, firing up the audience before hitting his signature corner Clothesline. Miz then attempted to hit the Skull Crushing Finale, but as he was doing so, Maxine stepped onto the ring. Bateman was able to deliver an elbow to Miz, causing him to back up and nearly crash into Maxine. Miz was able to stop himself, but was then rolled up by Bateman, who placed his feet on the ropes to steal the victory.

The bell sounded as Derrick Bateman quickly rolled out of the ring, Maxine celebrating with him. The Miz, on the other hand, was stunned in the ring as Bateman managed to defeat the former two-time WWE Champion. The WWE Universe may still have their doubts about Bateman's chance in the Royal Rumble match, but regardless, he has scored what may be the biggest victory of his career thus far.

Backstage, Matt Striker was shown standing outside of the trainer's room, where Divas Champion Paige was being tended to. "From what I have been told, Paige does have a concussion after the blow from the dumbbell by Kaitlyn. She will undergo several tests to determine whether or not she will be cleared to compete at the Royal Rumble," he said.

A graphic was shown for the upcoming main event match. Vince McMahon challenges Bray Wyatt, next on the 20th Anniversary of Monday Night RAW!

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A promo was shown for the Royal Rumble, live Sunday January 27th, only on Pay Per View.

BRAY WYATT VS. VINCE MCMAHON ENDS IN A NO CONTEST
An unprecedented main event here on the 20th Anniversary of RAW as the Chairman of the board, Vince McMahon, stepped into the ring one more time to avenge his family against the diabolical Bray Wyatt. Surprisingly, Wyatt made sure that the rest of his family kept their distance from the action throughout the match as none of them were in sight. Wyatt was able to get Vince in a corner, stomping on him repeatedly. "Down goes the almighty!" shouted Wyatt before tossing Vince to the outside, where he delivered a Running Senton. Back in the ring, Wyatt remained in control of Vince was able to move out the way during a Running Crossbody attempt, Wyatt catching the official instead. From there, the match was essentially over. Vince was able to fight back with repeated strikes, but Wyatt soon caught with a knee to the mid section and a headbutt. With Vince down, Wyatt went to ringside and grabbed a chair. As he was prepared to strike, Vince delivered a low blow! The crowd erupted as Vince took the chair, standing over the downed Wyatt! The "Eater of Worlds" shook his head repeatedly before Vince delivered a shot from the chair across his back! The audience continued to go wild as Vince hit him with several more shots, Bray Wyatt finally appearing vulnerable. As Vince continued to whale away with the chair, the signature of the Wyatt Family hit. When the lights came back, Luke Harper, Erick Rowan and Kane were all in the ring surrounding Vince.

The Chairman of the WWE glanced at the entire Wyatt Family before Kane took the steel chair out of his hands, throwing it out to ringside. It looked as if the Wyatt Family was about to make another victim out of Vince, but suddenly, the entrance theme of Triple H hit! "The Game" ran down to the ring with a sledgehammer in his hands, immediately striking Kane in the mid-section with it! Hunter then struck Rowan in the face, knocking the lamb mask off. Harper then attempted to catch Triple H with a Lariat, but he failed to do so, allowing Hunter to strike him in the back with the sledgehammer. By that time, Bray Wyatt had crawled up to the top of the stage, looking back in the ring at Triple H and Vince McMahon. Hunter took a microphone, telling Wyatt that he has yet to finish what he started. "You and me.........the Royal Rumble........No Holds Barred!" said Hunter as Wyatt smirked while extending both of his arms out. No disqualifications, no count outs, anything goes at the Royal Rumble when Triple H and Bray Wyatt finally meet one on one!