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

Immediately following the signature WWE intro, cameras cut to the Full Sail Arena as the entrance music of Triple H hit to a massive ovation. The WWE COO made his way down to the ring, standing in the ring as the NXT Universe continued to go wild for him. Hunter said that the past couple of weeks, he has dealt with personal matters in this ring. Tonight, however, it's all about business. "For almost a year now, NXT has played a vital role in the WWE. Superstars such as Seth Rollins and Damien Sandow have all found their way to super stardom through NXT, as well as the current WWE Divas Champion, Paige," said Hunter. He also mentioned Big E Langston, who is set to make his SmackDown debut any day now. "Along with those, many others in the back are well on their way to achieving success in the WWE. The NXT Champion Kassius Ohno, the Women's Champion Emma, the Tag Team Champions Corey Graves and Jake Carter, Richie Steamboat, the list goes on and one of great, young talent in NXT. But the most important factor in their success is you, the NXT Universe who pack Full Sail University each and every week. To show our appreciation for you all, I am pleased to announce that on February 27th, NXT will hold its third iPPV on WWE.com free of charge!" The audience erupted at the announcement, though the reception died down as NXT Champion Kassius Ohno arrived. He stepped into the ring, coming face to face with "The Game." Ohno told Hunter that he couldn't care any less about the circumstances of the next iPPV. All he cares about is who will his next challenger be. "I decimated William Regal once again last week, so who are you planning on throwing at me next?" asked the reigning champion. Triple H said that he has no answer to that question at the moment, but we will all know before the end of the night. "In tonight's main event, four NXT superstars will compete for the right to challenge you, Ohno, on February 27th. It will be Adrian Neville versus Richie Steamboat versus Tyler Breeze versus the man who embarrassed you last week, Sami Zayn." The audience popped for the match reveal as Triple H attempted to leave the ring while Ohno went on a rant against the COO. "I retain my championship in NXT's biggest match last week, and this is my reward? You're forcing me to find out who my next opponent is at the same time as these people? Hunter, has Bray Wyatt gotten so far into your head that you can't even make any rational decisions?" asked the NXT Champion. The last remark caught the attention of "The Game" as he turned around. "You want me to make a rational decision? Here's one. You're dressed to compete, so that is exactly what you will be doing right now," said Hunter before leaving the ring as Ohno lashed out at him, claiming that he was not scheduled to compete this evening. "I am the NXT Champion and the future of your company, Hunter! Show me respect!" shouted Ohno as Triple H continued up the entrance ramp.

A graphic was shown promoting an appearance from William Regal, who was forced to utter the words, "I quit" last week. What will Regal have to say when he addresses the NXT Universe?

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NON TITLE MATCH
NXT CHAMPION KASSIUS OHNO DEF. ALEX RILEY
After Kassius Ohno's comments toward Triple H moments ago, the COO forced the NXT Champion to compete here tonight. Alex Riley, who had been out for a while due to injury, looked better than ever against perhaps the most dangerous man in NXT today. As Riley was looking to deliver an Impaler DDT, Ohno was able to keep a grip on the ropes. He tossed Riley to the outside with an overhead slam, but A-Ry landed on his feet and quickly rolled back into the ring. Upon doing so, Ohno caught him with a Roaring Elbow to grab the victory.

The NXT Universe booed as Kassius Ohno stood to his feet before retrieving the NXT Championship from ringside. He made his way up the entrance ramp, being forced to wait until the end of the broadcast to find out who his challenger for the NXT Championship will be on February 27th.

Backstage, Emma was shown making her way down a corridor. The first ever NXT Women's Champion is in action, next!

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Returning to NXT on ION Television, a recap of the opening segment was shown. WWE COO Triple H announced that on February 27th, NXT will hold its third iPPV on WWE.com, free of charge to the NXT Universe this time. In tonight's main event, the #1 contender for the NXT Championship at that event will be determined in a Fatal Four Way match.

NON TITLE MATCH
NXT WOMEN'S CHAMPION EMMA DEF. AKSANA
The NXT Universe erupted for the arrival of Emma as the first ever NXT Women's Champion sported the title around her waist, performing her signature dance on her way to the ring. Aksana was looking to gain momentum and spoil the celebration for the inaugural champion, but Emma brought her intentions to a halt when she applied the Emma Lock, forcing Aksana to submit.

Emma stood to her feet as she was handed back the NXT Women's Championship, holding it up with one arm while doing the "Emmalution of Dance" as Byron Saxton coined it. Cameras cut to the backstage area, where Raquel Diaz and Vickie Guerrero were shown watching a TV monitor in disgust. Emma continued to celebrate her victory with the audience in Full Sail University, on top of the world as the NXT Women's Champion.

Backstage, Devin Taylor was standing by with Alex Riley. She asked A-Ry for his thoughts after making an unsuccessful return to NXT. Riley, whose tone was a bit more aggressive than usual, said that it wasn't just tonight that was a disappointment. It's been the past year and a half of his career. "I was NXT before this place existed. I helped The Miz get to the main event of WrestleMania, even though he won't admit that. I made a name for myself, and then it all came crashing down. Even here on NXT, things have ended in disappointment. I made it to the finals of the NXT Championship tournament just to lose to Damien Sandow. Had a chance to win the Elimination Chase, but nope. Still failed. And now, in my opportunity to make an impact in my return, I lost to Kassius Ohno. Something has to change around here, and it has to happen quickly," said Riley before leaving the interview.

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A promo was shown for this Friday's edition of SmackDown. On what has been labeled as "Mick Foley Appreciation Night," WWE Champion CM Punk teams with Cody Rhodes to take on Wade Barrett and the World Heavyweight Champion, Dolph Ziggler. Plus, the United States Champion Rob Van Dam does battle with the Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose. All that and more on SmackDown, this Friday on SyFy.

XAVIER WOODS DEF. TRENT BARRETA
Neither Xavier Woods or Trent Barreta have been able to get on track as of late, so a victory here would pay dividends for one of them. As Barreta was attempting to deliver a Superplex from the top rope, Woods managed to counter it and plant him with a Sunset Flip. As Barreta stirred to his feet, Woods took him down with the Lost in the Woods Facebreaker to grab the victory.

The Full Sail audience popped for Xavier Woods as he stood to his feet, celebrating a huge victory over Trent Barreta. Woods picks up a bit of steam here tonight, making a case as to why he should be in the running for an opportunity at the NXT Championship.

At this time, footage that was sent to the NXT production crew was shown. In the video, we saw Bo Rotundo sitting on his car with a Mickey Mouse hat on. He apologized to the NXT Universe for not being there last week. "I know that all of my Bolievers were disappointed by my absence. I just want to say that I am deeply, deeply sorry to them......oh, and to Richie Steamboat as well. But I'm sure he did great anyways!" said the enthusiastic Bo. He explained that he was not present at last week's show as he embarked on a 'journey.' "It was incredible! First, I traveled to Bolivia and delivered water guns to starving children! Then, I brought most of those kids to Disney World! It was so much fun, but not more fun than being there with the NXT Universe! But have no worry, Bolievers. I will make my much anticipated return next week! So until then, I have this message for you all. Don't stop Bolieving!" he said before the footage faded out.

Returning to the broadcast, Richie Steamboat was shown in the locker room area, watching a TV monitor in disbelief. "You gotta be kidding me," he said before resuming his preparation for tonight's #1 contenders Fatal Four Way match.

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Returning to NXT on ION Television, Eden Stiles introduced William Regal, who received a huge ovation from the NXT Universe. Regal made his way down to the ring, sporting a bandage on his forehead as a result of his I Quit match with Kassius Ohno last week. Regal began speaking by saying that last week, he engaged in one of the most brutal matches of his career. "At the same time, it was one of the most humiliating of my career. Never before had I been beaten and battered to the point where I felt the need to give in and tell another man that I couldn't handle the punishment anymore. Kassius Ohno, despite how I may personally feel about him, deserves all of the praise in the world," said Regal as the audience did not seem to agree with him on that point. He then said that if last week was meant to be the final match of his career, then so be it. "It is not how I would have liked to the close the book, but there was certain things that I cannot fight. Kassius Ohno was the better man last week, and I am here to congratulate him," said Regal. Suddenly, a man began to walk down to the ring, catching Regal's attention. The commentary unit identified the man as Kenneth Cameron. "Can I help you with something," asked Regal. "Yes, you could help. In fact, you could help all of the UK by just stopping right now," said Cameron. When Regal asked what he meant, Cameron said that Regal has done nothing but bring shame to his country. "England has always been proud of you, mate. The people there treated you like a God, and how do you repay them? By making a mocker of all Brits and saying 'I Quit' on live television? And now, you're praising the man who beat you to a pulp? What the bloody hell is wrong with you?" asked Cameron. When Regal tried to speak, Cameron delivered a slap across his face. Regal held the side of his face as he looked away from Cameron. "Are you even going to do anything? Are you going to look at me, Regal? Are you going to fight back? What are you going to do?!" shouted the enraged Cameron. Regal took a while to respond, making Cameron believe that he wouldn't. "I didn't want to believe it. You're nothing more than an embarrassment now," said Kenneth Cameron before leaving the ring to a chorus of boos.

A graphic was shown for the #1 contenders Fatal Four Way match, coming up next on NXT!

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

#1 CONTENDERS MATCH
SAMI ZAYN DEF. ADRIAN NEVILLE, RICHIE STEAMBOAT AND TYLER BREEZE
A fantastic match to close out tonight's edition of NXT. Mid-way through the bout, NXT Champion Kassius Ohno made his way out to the stage to get a closer look. In one of the bigger spots of the match, Adrian Neville and Tyler Breeze were brawling on the outside of the ring when Richie Steamboat delivered a Superplex to Sami Zayn onto them! All four men were down on the floor as the crowd roared with chants of, "NXT!" Steamboat rolled Zayn into the ring, only managing to get a two count. As Steamboat was heading to the top rope, Breeze got to his feet and pushed him off. Breeze entered the ring and waited for Zayn to get up, but Neville came up behind him and applied a Headlock. Breeze backed Neville into a corner, but the hold was still in. At that moment, Zayn charged towards Neville and Breeze, catching the both of them with a Yakuza Kick! Zayn pulled Breeze into the center of the ring, covering him for the victory.

The crowd jumped to its feet as Sami Zayn was declared the winner. After an incredible contest between four of NXT's best, Zayn managed to come out on top. He locked eyes with the NXT Champion Kassius Ohno, who raised the title in the air. On February 27th, Ohno puts the gold on the line against Zayn!

January 21st, 2013 - San Jose, CA Royal Rumble is live this Sunday on Pay Per View!

After the signature WWE intro, a video package was shown to recap the events of last week's 20th Anniversary edition of Monday Night RAW. After the Chairman of the Board, Vince McMahon, confronted Bray Wyatt, the two would meet in a match later in the evening. Before Wyatt and the rest of his family could bring punishment upon McMahon, Triple H was able to make the save for his father in law. "The Game" would then go on to challenge Wyatt to a No Holds Barred match at the Royal Rumble, which the "Eater of Worlds" would accept. Tonight, Triple H takes on Wyatt Family member, Kane, in the same match type. Also on last week's show, John Cena went up against one of RAW's brightest up and comers, Roman Reigns. After Seth Rollins got involved on behalf of Reigns, The Rock made the save for Cena. Following that, a huge announcement was made. Tonight, live from San Jose, The Rock will compete in his first televised match in a decade when he and Cena team up to battle Reigns and Rollins. The final stop for RAW before the Royal Rumble starts now!

Cutting to the arena, the WWE Universe could be heard booing as we saw the WWE Champion, CM Punk, sitting cross-legged in the ring, Paul Heyman standing at his side. Punk said that for nearly one year now, there has been a massive thorn in his side by the name of Wade Barrett. "How many times do I have to prove that Barrett is not on my level? I defeated him at WrestleMania last year. Then, at Bragging Rights, I took the WWE Championship from him, and two weeks ago, I claimed victory once again inside of a Steel Cage. And what is the result of all of that? I am forced to defend my WWE Title yet against against him, but this time, Paul Heyman will be put in harm's way," said Punk. He stated that it's very fitting that their final encounter will take place at the Royal Rumble. "When Barrett won the Rumble match last year, he believed that he was capable of anything, including proving that he is better than me. This Sunday, I show Barrett once and for all that no one is better than the 'Best in the World.'" Punk handed the microphone to Heyman, who said that this Handicap match at the Royal Rumble only shows how gutless Wade Barrett truly is. "The fact that the man would propose a stipulation in which he does not even have to defeat my client, CM Punk, in order to become the WWE Champion is absurd. Unfortunately for Mr. Barrett, there is no possibility of him obtaining any of his goals. He will not defeat CM Punk to become the new WWE Champion, and he certainly will not lay a finger on me," said Heyman. Seconds later, the theme of Barrett hit to the roar of the audience in San Jose. The "Bare Knuckle Fighter" said that Punk was correct about one thing just now. "It is very appropriate that this match takes place at the Royal Rumble. Our rivalry began the seconds that I won the 2012 Royal Rumble match, because it was at that very moment that I knew we would meet at WrestleMania XXVIII. One year later, I will close this story by beating you for a second time with the WWE Championship on the line. And in the process, I will do the entire WWE a favor by getting rid of that rat, Paul Heyman." Punk told Barrett that he needs to stop referring to last year's events. "Yes, you won the Royal Rumble last year. Yes, you beat me for the WWE Championship in a fluke last year. In this business, it's all about what you have done lately. And lately, I have claimed victory over you on two separate occasions for the WWE Title. The fact that you were granted one more opportunity at the Royal Rumble is ridiculous, but nonetheless, I will beat you one more time on Sunday," said a very confident Punk. The WWE Champion then told Barrett that he has a challenge for him tonight. "Paul Heyman and I are going to sit down at the announce table and watch you prepare for Sunday by competing in a Handicap match," said Punk. He and Heyman exited the ring as Barrett marched towards there, ready to make a statement to the two of them.

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HANDICAP MATCH
WADE BARRETT DEF. THE PRIME TIME PLAYERS
A solid bout to kick things off on what is sure to be a massive edition of Monday Night RAW, just six days before the Royal Rumble. It was not an easy task for the "Bare Knuckle Fighter," but with WWE Champion, CM Punk, and Paul Heyman sitting at ringside, Wade Barrett was able to successfully make examples out of Titus O'Neil and Darren Young, who came up short in their quest for momentum heading into the Rumble match. After delivering a Bullhammer Elbow to Titus, Barrett delivered Wasteland to Young for the win.

The audience popped hugely for Wade Barrett as he stood to his feet, but he was instantly taken down when CM Punk struck him behind his knee. Barrett fell onto the canvas as Punk stomped away on him before striking him repeatedly with lefts and rights. The WWE Champion then picked Barrett up off of the canvas, delivering a Go To Sleep. Punk was not done with his assault there as he called for Paul Heyman to step into the ring. Heyman did so with the WWE Title in his hands as Punk held Barrett up. Heyman then struck Barrett with the gold before he handed it back to Punk. "Best in the world!" shouted the WWE Champion as he and Heyman raised each other's arms while standing tall over their Royal Rumble opponent, Wade Barrett.

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After the commercial break, Mick Foley's Hall of Fame promo that aired last week was shown once again. On the night before WrestleMania XXIX, the "Hardcore Legend" will take his rightful spot in the WWE Hall of Fame!

"Vnimanie! Vnimanie!" shouted the blonde woman who was seen last week with the man who attacked Ryback. A name plate appeared on the screen, revealing her name to be Lana. She spoke in Russian for a bit as the WWE Universe showered her with boos. "People of America, rise for the WWE's newest and most dominant acquisition. The 'Super Athlete.' The 'Bulgarian Brute,' Rusev!" An unfamiliar theme hit as Rusev made his way out to the stage, the commentators recalling his attack on Ryback last week. Rusev stood on a platform as Lana continued to speak highly of the new RAW superstar, claiming that his physical stature alone proves why he is better than the entire American population combined. "Rusev will crush the competition this Sunday when he enters the Royal Rumble match. 29 stand in his way, and 29 will be destroyed," said Lana. However, she was soon interrupted by the blaring of the words, "Feed me!" through the PA system. The crowd stood to its feet as Ryback made his way out to the stage, quickly going after Rusev. The two behemoths exchanged blows before Ryback delivered a knee to the mid section of Rusev. The "Bulgarian Brute" was then sent face-first into the stage before Ryback shouted, "Finish it!" As Ryback was picking Rusev up off of the stage, Lana approached him and shouted at him in Russian. Soon, she actually delivered a slap across the face of Ryback! He let go of Rusev and slowly approached Lana, who continued to shout at him. Rusev was able to get back to his feet and attack Ryback from behind. The "Bulgarian Brute" slammed Ryback onto the steel before applying a Camel Clutch. Ryback faded away as Rusev kept the hold applied, Lana shouting, "Make the American suffer!" Officials were soon on the scene to restore order. Rusev released the Camel Clutch as he and Lana raised each other's arms, the WWE Universe showering them with boos. For the second week in a row, Rusev leaves Ryback for dead while sending a message to the other competitors in the Royal Rumble match.

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Returning from the commercial break, Roman Reigns was shown in the locker room area preparing for tonight's huge tag team main event. Suddenly, his partner for the evening, Seth Rollins, walked into the room. Rollins told Reigns that he wanted to take a moment to talk to him about something. "I get it. Stay on the same page tonight, but tear each other apart on Sunday," said Reigns. Rollins responded by telling him that he's only partially correct. "Obviously, you and I have to act as a unit tonight, but even though the Royal Rumble is every man for himself, why can't we stay on the same page? Roman, we are undoubtedly the two most deserving superstars on the roster. We're young and already better than everyone else. We prove that night in and night out, and one of us deserves to headline WrestleMania. So in the Royal Rumble match, you watch my back and I'll watch yours. Then, when it comes down to just the two of us, we'll see who the better man is," said Rollins. Reigns thought about it for a bit before asking Rollins how he was supposed to trust him. "How do I know that you're not just looking for a bodyguard out there?" asked Reigns. Rollins told him that if he doesn't believe him right now, he guarantees that he will when they beat The Rock and John Cena tonight.

THE MIZ AND KOFI KINGSTON DEF. DERRICK BATEMAN AND FANDANGO W/ MAXINE
A solid tag team match featuring four of the participants in the Royal Rumble match this Sunday. Throughout the match, a bit of dissension among both teams became evident. As Fandango was attempting to make a tag, Bateman stepped off of the ring apron and left up the entrance ramp with Maxine. This allowed The Miz to enter the ring and plant Fandango with a Skull Crushing Finale for the victory.

The WWE Universe popped slightly for The Miz as he stood to his feet, Kofi Kingston joining him in celebration. Miz approached the ropes, taking a bit of time to stare at Derrick Bateman and Maxine. When Miz turned around, Kingston teased delivering Trouble in Paradise. The startled Miz grabbed the ropes as Kingston smirked at him, reminding the "Awesome One" that even though they were tag team partners just now, it will be every man for himself at the Royal Rumble on Sunday.

Backstage, Triple H was shown walking down a corridor. The COO makes his return to the ring to take on Kane in a No Holds Barred match, next on RAW!

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A promo was shown for this Friday's edition of SmackDown. On the final stop before the Royal Rumble, Randy Orton and Sheamus go one on one in a Lumberjack match. SmackDown, this Friday on SyFy.

Backstage, Derrick Bateman and Maxine were shown walking following Bateman's loss in a tag team match. "It doesn't matter that I left. Fandango was going to lose anyways," said Bateman. Maxine then began to talk, asking Bateman if he would have her back when she wrestles Paige tonight. "Why? It's just Paige. You'll be fine," said Bateman. "Seriously, Derrick?! If you're not going to be out there, then what are you going to do?!" asked an irate Maxine. "Uh, hello? I'm gonna go get ready for the Royal Rumble. I have to pick up my custom suit, my new car, and make sure my private jet is ready to go," said Bateman. Maxine then told him that he's making a lot of preparation for a match that he probably won't even win. "Just like I couldn't be any richer, you couldn't be any more wrong. I'm gonna win the Royal Rumble match, and on top of that, I'm gonna eliminate The Rock!" said Bateman before leaving Maxine to in alone tonight against Paige.

NO HOLDS BARRED MATCH
TRIPLE H DEF. KANE W/ THE WYATT FAMILY
A teaser for what is to come at the Royal Rumble when Triple H and Bray Wyatt collide in the same match type, No Holds Barred. Tonight, however, "The Game" made a return to the ring to take on one-fourth of The Wyatt Family, Kane. Bray Wyatt, Luke Harper and Erick Rowan all watched from the stage as the "Big Red Monster" looked to punish the COO. Hunter was able to bring the pain to Kane towards the end of the match, striking him in the mid-section with a sledgehammer. Triple H followed that up by taking one of the TV monitors and cracking Kane over the head with it. Hunter then took apart the announce table, grabbing Kane and placing him on it. With his eyes locked on Bray Wyatt, Hunter delivered a Pedigree to Kane onto the announce table! "The Game" quickly rolled Kane back into the ring, covering him to gain the win

Triple H stood to his feet as the audience applauded him, though "The Game" was not in the mood for celebration. He took a microphone, telling Bray Wyatt that what just happened to Kane does not even compare to what will happen to him on Sunday. Wyatt cut Hunter off saying that he hears the threatening cries of the false shepherd, but there are no sheep to insight fear in. "The kingdom will be mine, Hunter. It's a shame that you cannot see the inevitable right before you," said Wyatt. Hunter responded by saying that the only inevitable thing in Wyatt's future is an ass kicking. "You put your hands on the people who mean the most to me. Ric Flair, Vince McMahon and my wife, Stephanie. You're not taking anything else away from me. I have gone through hell and back, and every time, I've made it out in one piece. Steel chairs, tables, barbed wire, thumbtacks, fire, you name it, it's been put in my path. And at the Royal Rumble, I'm going to throw everything in yours," said Triple H. He threw his microphone down as he and Wyatt continued to stare each other down. Just how far will Triple H go to make Bray Wyatt pay for his actions this Sunday in their No Holds Barred encounter?

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Returning to RAW, a recap of the previous events was shown as Triple H managed to defeat Kane in a No Holds Barred match before delivering a few words to Bray Wyatt. "Triple H has engaged in some of the most physical and brutal wars that we have seen in WWE history. As he said, he has seen everything. Chairs, tables, barbed wire, thumbtacks, fire, you name it. How far is Triple H going to go Sunday at the Royal Rumble?" asked Michael Cole on commentary. "One thing is for certain. This match will not be for the faint of heart," added Lawler.
  
UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
ROB VAN DAM DEF. JACK SWAGGER W/ ZEB COLTER AND SHELTON BENJAMIN
The rematch that Jack Swagger had been waiting for ever since losing the United States Championship two weeks ago. This time, he had his fellow Real Americans, Zeb Colter and Shelton Benjamin, at ringside. Rob Van Dam managed to eliminate them as a threat when he delivered a Spinning Heel Kick to Benjamin, who was on the ring apron. Benjamin fell back and crashed onto Colter. Swagger came up behind Van Dam, looking for the Patriot Powerbomb. Van Dam was able to counter it into a DDT before heading up to the top rope. Van Dam descended with the Five Star Frog Splash, covering Swagger with the hook of both legs to retain his championship.

Cheers quickly emerged from the San Jose audience as Rob Van Dam stood to his feet, taking the United States Championship that he just successfully defended. As "Mr. Monday Nights" celebrated his victory, the commentary unit put him over as a potential favorite to win the Royal Rumble match this Sunday.

    Backstage, Matt Striker was standing by with the one and only, The Rock! As soon as Rock stepped into the scene, the crowd came unglued. Striker asked the "People's Champion" for his thoughts heading into tonight's tag team main event. "The Rock was told that he would be interviewed by that little blonde Canadian, not some English-teaching reject," said The Rock. "I taught Social Studies," said Striker. "It doesn't matter what you taught! Give The Rock that microphone, he'll teach you a thing or two," said Rock before he snatched the mic from Striker. "The Rock knows that the millions and millions of his fans are excited to see him stand tall with a victory in the Royal Rumble match this Sunday, but let's focus on tonight for a moment. Aside from The Rock, not one person who will be out there has any redeeming qualities. You've got that fruity pebble, John Cena. The Rock could not think of a more underwhelming tag team partner. On the other side of the ring, you got Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle! Otherwise known as Roman Reigns. So The Rock guesses that makes Seth Rollins, Jane....or maybe that's Brad Maddox. Either way, the point that The Rock is trying to make is that tonight, The Rock is out there with a bunch of jabronis, just like he will be Sunday at the Royal Rumble. But the result will be the same. The Rock is going to take his boot, turn it sideways in stick it straight up everyone's candy ass on his way to the main event of WrestleMania! If ya smell......what The Rock....is........cooking!"

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Returning to RAW, a graphic was shown for the Royal Rumble Kickoff Show that begins thirty minutes prior to the start of the Pay Per View event. The show will feature an all star panel of three past Royal Rumble winners. Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio and Stone Cold Steve Austin! Plus, Wrestling Royalty puts the WWE Tag Team Championships on the line against Antonio Cesaro and Damien Sandow. The Royal Rumble Kickoff Show is live, Sunday on WWE.com, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Google+.

NON-TITLE MATCH
DIVAS CHAMPION PAIGE DEF. MAXINE
After last week's dumbbell attack by Kaitlyn, it was clear that Paige was not 100% in this match. Maxine was able to keep control for a bit, though the "Anti Diva" found a burst of energy after taking her down with several Clotheslines. Paige delivered the Paige Turner, though after she did, she held her head for a bit. While dazed, Paige got the cover to get the victory.

The crowd popped for Paige as she slowly stood to her feet following her victory. When the official handed her the Divas Championship, he asked if she was alright. Paige insisted that she was fine as she celebrated with her championship. The commentators made note of Paige's condition, saying that it is a clear target for Kaitlyn at the Royal Rumble on Sunday.

Backstage, John Cena was shown preparing for tonight's huge tag team main event. He teams with The Rock to take on two of RAW's up and comers, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns! The Rock's first televised match in a decade is still to come tonight!

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Returning to Monday Night RAW, Renee Young was standing by in the backstage area with the Divas Champion, Paige. Renee asked the "Anti Diva" for her final thoughts heading into this Sunday's title defense against Kaitlyn. Paige said that she is done talking. "The moment that I have been waiting for for weeks now is only six days away. Sure, I may not be 100% after her little dumbbell attack last week, but I don't care. I am going into the Royal Rumble with only one thing on my mind - revenge. And I promise you, I will make sure that bitch doesn't come anywhere near my family ever again!" said an enraged Paige.

At the announce table, Michael Cole and Jerry "The King" Lawler began to give a rundown of the card for the Royal Rumble Pay Per View event. Prior to the start of the event, Wrestling Royalty will put the WWE Tag Team Championships on the line against Damien Sandow and Antonio Cesaro on the Royal Rumble Kickoff Show. Will day 299 mark the end of Hennig and DiBiase's historic reign? Paige looks for revenge when she defends the Divas Championship against Kaitlyn. The World Heavyweight Championship will be up for grabs when Dolph Ziggler defends the gold against God's Gifts' Cody Rhodes. CM Punk defends the WWE Championship with Paul Heyman as his partner against Wade Barrett in a Handicap match. Blood will be shed when Triple H and Bray Wyatt go one on one in a No Holds Barred. And finally, it is the Royal Rumble match. Thirty men will enter, but only one will leave with a first class ticket to the main event of WrestleMania. Who will be "The One?" The Royal is live this Sunday on Pay Per View!

A graphic was shown for the huge tag team match pitting The Rock and John Cena against Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns. The "Great One" competes in his first televised match in a decade, next!

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

THE ROCK AND JOHN CENA DEF. SETH ROLLINS AND ROMAN REIGNS W/ BRAD MADDOX VIA DISQUALIFICATION
This match saw the most fired up audience in recent memory for any bout on Monday Night RAW. Chants of, "We want Rocky!" flooded the atmosphere as John Cena stayed in the ring for a while against Rollins and Reigns. As Reigns was going for a Spear, Cena was able to counter it with a Dropkick. Both men crawled to their corners as Rock and Rollins extended their hands out. When Cena made the tag to The Rock, the WWE Universe exploded for the "Great One." Rock stepped into the ring, taking down Rollins with several Clotheslines. As Rock was looking to hit Rock Bottom, Rollins managed to fight out of it. He attempted to deliver the Blackout, but Rock was able to counter it into a Spinebuster! He threw one of his elbow pads into the audience, going for the People's Elbow. However, as he was running the ropes, Brad Maddox grabbed his foot from underneath the bottom rope. Maddox held on as Reigns went after Rock, the official calling for the bell.

The bell sounded as the audience expressed their displeasure for the finish of the match. Reigns and Rollins both stomped away on Rock before John Cena intervened. He was able to hold his own for a while, getting Rollins up on his shoulders for the Attitude Adjustment. Suddenly, Cena was drilled with a Spear from Reigns! As Reigns stood to his feet, The Rock turned him around and placed him in position for the Rock Bottom. That was not to be, however, as Rollins caught Rock with a Superkick, following it up with the Blackout! Rock and Cena were both laid out as Rollins and Reigns stared at each other, the former extending his hand. "Now do you trust me?" asked Rollins, making reference to their encounter earlier in the broadcast. Reigns still appeared to be a bit hesitant, but ultimately accepted the handshake. Brad Maddox stepped into the ring as he raised both Reigns and Rollins' arms. The two young guns managed to work as a unit and lay out both The Rock and John Cena, showing that it may not be every man for himself in the Royal Rumble match. If tonight was any indication for what's to come on Sunday, either Seth Rollins or Roman Reigns could be on their way to the main event at WrestleMania.

WWE NXT | January 23rd, 2013

The show kicked off with Bo Rotundo making his return after embarking on what he referred to as the "Bo Rotundo World Tour." While sporting a hat from Disneyland, Rotundo said that he hopes to make the entire NXT Universe "Bolievers," just as he did a group of starving children in Bolivia by giving them water guns. He had a bag with him that said contained presents for everyone in attendance. The "presents" turned out to be autographed pictures of Rotundo with a message written on them - Don't stop Bolieving! He began to hand them out, though most people rejected them. Richie Steamboat then made his entrance, Rotundo trying to give him a picture. Steamboat knocked the picture out of Rotundo's hand before saying that the last thing he wants from him is a preset. Rotundo kept a smile on his face, telling Steamboat that he may need psychiatric help. Steamboat responded by saying that the only thing he needs right now is a match against Rotundo, which he has been granted in two weeks.

ADRIAN NEVILLE DEF. TYLER BREEZE: A feud has been brewing as of late between Adrian Neville and Tyler Breeze, culminating in a one on one match. As Breeze was attempting to deliver a Superplex, he became a bit too occupied with taking "selfies." Neville knocked the phone out of Breeze's hands before tossing him off of the top rope, descending with the Red Arrow to grab the victory.

ALEX RILEY DEF. ANGELO DAWKINS: Last week, Alex Riley stated in a post-match interview that he felt a change was needed in order for him to get back on track and receive the recognition that he deserves. As a follow up to that declaration, Riley returned to his "Varsity Villain" persona, complete with his letter jacket from the original NXT days. The change in Riley's attitude proved to be successful as he scored the victory after planting Angelo Dawkins with a TKO.

A graphic was shown to announce that next week, NXT Women's Champion Emma will be taking on Sasha Banks in a non-title match.

KENNETH CAMERON DEF. YOSHI TATSU: While this was Kenneth Cameron's in-ring debut as a singles competitor on NXT, he was no stranger to the NXT Universe after confronting William Regal last week. Regal was on commentary, though he remained mostly silent as Cameron constantly glanced over at him. While staring at Regal, Cameron hit Yoshi Tatsu with a vicious Curb Stomp to gain the victory. Even as Cameron was heading up to the entrance ramp after the match, he and Regal continued to lock eyes.

The ring was now set up for the official contract signing between NXT Champion, Kassius Ohno, and Sami Zayn for their title match on February 27th at NXT's third iPPV. With General Manager, Ricardo Rodriguez, acting as the overseer for the segment, Ohno and Zayn both entered the ring and took their seats at the table. Before signing the contract, Ohno told Zayn that for him, part of this match is about reclaiming the spotlight that Zayn tried to take away from him after he defeated William Regal two weeks ago. Zayn responded by saying that he wasn't after Ohno's spotlight. He was simply doing the right thing when he prevented Ohno from doing any further damage to Regal. Ohno signed the contract, handing it to Zayn and telling him that he should know what he's getting into before he signs his own death warrant. Zayn signed the contract as Ricardo announced that the match was now official. After he did so, Ohno pulled Zayn face-first onto the surface of the table. He then back into a corner, getting his elbow ready as Zayn stirred to his feet. Zayn dodged the Roaring Elbow, grabbing the NXT Championship and striking Ohno in the face with it! The crowd went wild as Zayn raised the title high in the air, sending a huge message before he and Ohno meet on February 27th for the NXT Championship!

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Friday Night SmackDown! | January 25th, 2012

The final broadcast before the Royal Rumble kicked off with one of the favorites to win it all on Sunday, Daniel Bryan, making his way out to a monstrous "Yes!" chant. Bryan said that it seems like John Bradshaw Layfield, despite not being a position of power anymore, has done everything that he can to try and prevent him from winning the Royal Rumble match in two nights. Not only did he make him the number one entrant in the match, but three of the four members of God's Gifts will also be in the mix of things, and he is sure that one of their main objectives is to eliminate him. "I'm here to tell JBL one final time that it doesn't matter what he does. He isn't the first person to tell me that I cannot accomplish something. I have been told my entire life that I am just not good enough, but every single time, I have proven them wrong. Throw what you want in my way, Bradshaw. Throw me in there at number one. Throw God's Gifts at me, I will still prove you wrong. Listen to me carefully when I say these words. This Sunday, I will win the Royal Rumble match! I will headline WrestleMania! And I will become champion! Yes! Yes! Yes!" The audience rallied behind Bryan, chanting thunderously along with him.

DANIEL BRYAN DEF. HEATH SLATER: As Bryan prepares for the Royal Rumble, he went up against another participant in the match on Sunday. With no 3MB in sight as Slater ordered Drew McIntyre and Jinder Mahal to "get the party started" in Phoenix, he was left to go in alone against arguably the hottest superstar in the WWE. Bryan kept control of a good portion of the match, eventually catching Slater with the Busaiku Knee to grab the win and a bit more momentum heading into the biggest challenge of his career on Sunday.

BIG SHOW DEF. TYSON KIDD IN A NO DISQUALIFICATIONS MATCH: The culmination of a month-long rivalry between Big Show and Tyson Kidd, which escalated last week when Show delivered a Chokeslam to Kidd's tag team partner, Justin Gabriel, off of the stage. Kidd already owns a pinfall victory over Big Show, but this was a much different environment. With a table set up in the ring, Kidd was looking to deliver a Springboard Clothesline through it. As he was in mid-air, Show caught him and delivered a Chokeslam through the table to capture the victory.

Backstage, Renee Young attempted to get a quick interview with Daniel Bryan before he was attacked from behind by Alberto Del Rio, the man that he defeated last week. Del Rio tossed Bryan into a wall before applying the Cross Armbreaker, trying to weaken him before the Royal Rumble match.

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION DEAN AMBROSE DEF. WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION DOLPH ZIGGLER: A big champion versus champion match heading into Sunday's Royal Rumble event. As Ziggler looked to be on the verge of victory, Cody Rhodes made his way down to ringside and distracted the official, allowing Ambrose to catch the "Show Off" with a low blow. Ambrose followed that up with a Knee Trembler to get the win. Ambrose celebrated wildly as had just pinned the World Heavyweight Champion! In the ring, Rhodes grabbed Ziggler and delivered a Piledriver! The "Prince of Pro Wrestling" then grabbed the World Title, raising it high in the air while standing tall over his opponent at the Royal Rumble.

DAMIEN SANDOW W/ ANTONIO CESARO DEF. JOE HENNIG W/ TED DIBIASE: Before these two teams meet on Sunday's Royal Rumble Kickoff Show for the WWE Tag Team Championships, Damien Sandow and Joe Hennig went one on one for a battle of momentum. After countering out of the Perfect Plex, Sandow was able to roll up Hennig with a handful of tights to steal the victory. Last week, Cesaro managed to defeat DiBiase, and now Sandow scores a victory over the other half of Wrestling Royalty. Cesaro and Sandow celebrated on the stage while the commentators questioned whether DiBiase and Hennig will be able to reach day 300.

DIVAS CHAMPION PAIGE DEF. ALICIA FOX: Much like this past Monday on RAW, Paige looked to not be at 100% in this match. With every bump that she took, she held the back of her head while squinting in discomfort. Ultimately, she was able to lock Alicia Fox in the Scorpion Crosslock, now known as the Norwich Knot, to get the submission victory. As she was exiting the ring, Kaitlyn blindsided her with a Spear! Paige was motionless as the commentary unit noted that the back of her head crashed against the floor. "It's over, Paige," said Kaitlyn, vowing to become the new Divas Champion on Sunday at the Royal Rumble.

RANDY ORTON AND SHEAMUS WRESTLED TO A NO CONTEST IN A LUMBERJACK MATCH: As Randy Orton and Sheamus looked to settle their rivalry here tonight, the ring was surrounded by SmackDown's other participants in the Royal Rumble match on Sunday. Daniel Bryan, though, was noticeably absent as he was receiving medical treatment. After Sheamus was tossed to the outside, he shoved Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose out of the way in order to get back into the ring. Later on, as Sheamus was looking for the Brogue Kick, Ambrose jumped into the ring went after him. Tyson Kidd then immediately jumped into the ring to go after Ambrose when the rest of the Lumberjacks did the same. God's Gifts, Wrestling Royalty, Big Show and Heath Slater were all now involved as all hell was breaking loose. The entrance music of Daniel Bryan then hit to an enormous pop as he ran down to the ring, climbing onto the top rope and coming off with a Missile Dropkick to Alberto Del Rio. Chaos continued to ensue in a scene that was very reminiscent of what is to come Sunday at the Royal Rumble.