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Post by The Kevstaaa on Jun 8, 2017 22:39:26 GMT -5
 Raw: March 23rd, 2015 – Staples Center in Los Angeles, California
“It’s the final Raw before WrestleMania!” exclaimed Michael Cole as he, Jerry Lawler and Booker T introduced the show. Before they could get into anything more, the action got started.
Like last week, the show kicked off with the music of Triple H. Again, he stormed to the ring and demanded the Wyatts come face him. This time, the Wyatt Family answered, appearing outside the ring following their signature hitting the screen. Triple H spoke, “I don’t care if it’s three on one. What you did last week was unacceptable. Don’t you dare ever threaten my kids again!” Bray laughed, only angering Triple H further. He shouted for them to get in the ring. Bray stopped laughing and signaled for Erick Rowan and Luke Harper to surround the ring. They all hopped up on the apron. “I know Triple H is mad, but this is suicide,” said Michael Cole. Triple H then reached into his jacket and pulled out his trusty sledgehammer to a huge pop. He struck first, using the hammer to knock Bray off the apron. Bray jumped off to avoid it, allowing Harper and Rowan to jump Triple H. He fought them off, but the numbers were too much. Rowan and Harper held Triple H, while Bray rolled in the ring. He picked up the sledgehammer himself. “Dammit! Triple H is helpless!” exclaimed Booker. Suddenly, the crowd erupted as the Usos, the top contenders for the Tag Team Titles, charged the ring and fired off strikes and kicks. With Triple H free, he clotheslined Bray over the top and out. The Usos used stereo superkicks to send the Tag Team Champions packing. The Wyatt signature struck and the trio disappeared, leaving Triple H and the Usos in the ring. HHH fist bumped the duo before picking up the microphone. “You know what? Jimmy and Jey; you’re the number one contenders to the Tag Team Titles. Do what Shane and I couldn’t. Beat those dirty bastards and do it at WresteMania!” The crowd popped before Triple H finished by saying The Wyatt Family will end at WrestleMania.
In the parking lot, a car pulled up and out stepped Nikki Bella to a pop. The crowd got louder when Brie Bella exited behind her. “For the first time since Emma’s brutal attack, Brie Bella returns to action tonight!” said Cole.
NON-TITLE MATCH: CHRIS JERICHO DEF. WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION DOLPH ZIGGLER IN 10:40; After making a shocking return on Smackdown, Chris Jericho staked his claim for the Intercontinental Title. He added to that with a victory over the champion. The hard fought battle was won after nailing the Codebreaker.
The WWE’s partnership with the Special Olympics was the focal point of a video package.
A vignette followed to hype Brock Lesnar and his litany of accomplishments.
Returning to the ring, ESPN personalities Michelle Beadle and Bill Simmons were in the ring. They hyped up the crowd and informed them that they are huge WWE fans. “We have a special announcement to make, but first, there’s someone we’d like to bring out to a WWE ring for the first time in years,” said Beadle. Jonathan Coachman’s old theme played as the Coach made his way out to a pop from the crowd. He joined them in the ring and said it felt good to be back in the WWE. “However, we aren’t here to take up too much of your time. We understand that you’re here to see your favorite Superstars and not us,” said Coachman. Simmons chimed in, saying that’s what they want to see too. Coach finished things off, saying, “We are here to let the world know that, for the first time ever, ESPN will be covering WrestleMania! That’s right, we’ll be on hand at the biggest show of the year to bring you exclusive interviews and live coverage from the granddaddy of them all!”
NON-TITLE MATCH: WWE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION SETH ROLLINS DEF. JUSTIN GABRIEL IN 4:37; Tonight, all three participants in the WWE Title match at WrestleMania will have singles matches. Here, Seth Rollins made quick work of Justin Gabriel after nailing the Curb Stomp.
CODY RHODES AND JOHN CENA DEF. RANDY ORTON AND WWE UNITED STATES CHAMPION RUSEV W/ LANA VIA COUNTOUT IN 10:52; A preview of two big WrestleMania matches, in one tag bout. This featured those pairings staying apart though. Rusev and Cody went at it, while Orton and Cena renewed their long rivalry. When Cena and Rhodes finally got their hands on their Mania opponents, Orton decided to bail as the legal man. Rusev wanted to keep fighting, but Orton audibly told him it wasn’t worth it and to wait until Sunday.
A vignette was shown of Batista and his career accomplishments.
Renee Young stood by with Paige, who returned last week. She asked about being part of the WWE Women’s Title match at her first WrestleMania this Sunday. Paige said it’s where she belongs. “I brought that title back and I made the women of this company relevant. Emma stole the title and I’m getting it back on Sunday. As for tonight, teaming with AJ Lee isn’t exactly what I had in mind when I woke up today.” She noted that she’ll play nice for the match, but right after that, all bets are off.
AJ LEE AND PAIGE DEF. THE BELLA TWINS IN 5:48; For the first time in months, Brie Bella got to compete. WWE Women’s Champion Emma strolled to ringside for a closer look at her upcoming WrestleMania opponents. Brie came in hot against Paige, but when she went up for the missile dropkick, Emma shoved her off. The referee missed this, but Nikki didn’t. Nikki went after Emma, who escaped up the ramp. Paige planted the fallen Brie with the RamPaige for the win.
The ominous gong rang throughout the arena, signaling the arrival of the Undertaker. The “Phenom” made his way down to the ring and prepared to speak. He was cut off by the sound of Sting’s music, as WCW’s greatest icon appeared on the stage to a huge ovation. As promised, Sting came face to face with the Undertaker and the fans roared loudly. You could cut the tension with a knife as the stare down continued. Undertaker spoke first, telling Sting, “You’re standing in my yard.” That got another pop. Sting responded by telling Undertaker that didn’t intimidate him. “In fact, nothing you’ve done has intimidated me. From the eerie entrance to you burying a bunch of crows in the graveyard. You gotta understand one thing, Undertaker. I’ve been waiting for this for a long, long time. I’ve studied you, I’ve learned everything about you. I’m ready for anything you can throw at me. At WrestleMania, only one thing is certain. IT’S SHOWTIME!” The Undertaker continued staring a hole through Sting. He stepped back and raised his arms above his head. As he threw them down, lightning struck the turnbuckle behind Sting. Sting didn’t flinch. Undertaker gave a slight smirk, acknowledging the toughness of his WrestleMania opponent. Undertaker issued some final words. “You’ve waited years for this opportunity and it’s all for naught. At WrestleMania, your soul is mine. At WrestleMania, you will rest in p-.” Undertaker was cut off by Sting placing his bat atop the microphone and lowering it. The WrestleMania logo loomed in the background as they stared at each other before commercial.
A final video package was shown to hype Batista vs. Brock Lesnar. It showed their highlights, side–by-side, dating back to OVW. For the first time ever, these two titans clash at the granddaddy of them all, this Sunday.
DEAN AMBROSE DEF. GOLDUST IN 4:00; The second match involving a former Shield member saw Dean Ambrose best Goldust via Dirty Deeds.
A video package aired to hype the Hall of Fame ceremony this Saturday. Join us on the WWE Network as Randy Savage, Vader, Diamond Dallas Page, Connor “The Crusher”, Molly Holly, Tatsumi Fujinami and the Steiner Brothers are inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame!
ROMAN REIGNS DEF. MARK HENRY IN 3:21; Looking to top his former brothers, Roman Reigns beat his opponent in the shortest time, despite facing the largest opposition. A vicious Spear kept Henry down for the count.
Screams were heard when Raw returned from commercial. CM Punk heinously dragged Brie Bella to the ring by her hair. “What the hell is he doing? This is disgusting,” said Michael Cole. Punk rolled her in the ring and followed. She tried to escape but he grabbed her by the hair again and shouted for her to shut up. He got a microphone and said, “Daniel. Oh, Daniel. Come out, come out wherever you are.” Cameras caught up with Daniel Bryan walking backstage. He was confused about why he was being called. He found a TV, saw his wife in harm’s way, and made a beeline for the arena. Punk shouted for him to stop, threatening to hurt Brie as he hoisted her onto his shoulders. “If you take another step, I will put your wife to sleep. I called you out here to remind you of something. I own you. At every single step of the way in our careers, I was always better. I was the bigger star before the WWE came calling. I am the bigger star now and I was the one who carried you to the Tag Team Titles. And yet, these people didn’t seem to get that. I was unjustly passed over for the main event of WrestleMania 27, 28 and 29. You know what these people did? They sat on their hands and watched. But the second they felt you were unjustly left off the WrestleMania main event, they chanted ‘yes’ and screamed your name from the top of their lungs. They fought for you and you got my WrestleMania main event.” Punk said that he’ll never forgive the WWE Universe or Bryan for taking his spot. “Make no mistake though, Daniel. Despite what they imbeciles think, I do own you. You’ve beaten me just once in your career and that’s not gonna change on Sunday. Especially when your mind is on the health of your bride.” With that, Punk dropped Brie Bella onto his knee with a sickening GTS. He immediately dashed out of the ring and through the crowd, while Bryan hastily entered the ring to check on Brie.
During the break, EMTs arrived to stretcher Brie out. Care was taken to keep her neck straight, as it has apparently been reinjured. Daniel Bryan left in the ambulance with her.
CHRISTIAN, THE NEW DAY AND RYBACK DEF. BIG SHOW, BO DALLAS, CESARO, SHEAMUS AND TYSON KIDD W/ NATALYA IN 10:37; This worked as a preview of the upcoming Randy Savage Memorial Intercontinental Championship Battle Royal. All ten men got some shine and look like threats heading into WrestleMania. The New Day showed a fun side and great chemistry. It was their assisted Big Ending on Dallas that got his guys the victory.
The music of the WWE World Heavyweight Champion hit, as Seth Rollins strutted to the ring. He wore the WWE Title around his waist and got a microphone, calling out Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns. The two former Shield members obliged, meaning all three shared the ring. Seth was hesitant and stood by the corner. He spoke, saying he didn’t want to fight tonight. “That’s for Sunday. Tonight, I just want to talk. We all won our matches earlier, we’re all heading into WrestleMania with a ton of momentum. I’m the WWE Champion, Dean won the Royal Rumble and Roman, well, you’ve kind of just lucked your way into this haven’t you?” Seth chuckled and Roman stepped forward, but Dean put an arm out to stop him. Dean spoke, saying it’s clear what Seth is doing. “You’re trying to get everyone all riled up and you’re trying to get us to make a mistake tonight. What’s gonna happen? Roman and I jump you and you’ve got some plan where we end up attacked from behind or with steel chairs? No, Roman may be ready to act dumb and fall for it, but I’m not.” Dean’s words struck a chord with Roman, who snatched the microphone from him. Roman dared Dean to call him dumb again. The two began to bicker, with Seth smiling in his corner. Suddenly, they stopped and turned to Seth, who looked like a deer in the headlights. They stepped forward and Seth charged with his title. Roman ducked the shot and Seth slid out of the ring. He exited up the ramp, but didn’t realize Dean was hot on his tail. Dean caught up, grabbed him by the hair and brawled with him to ringside. They traded blows until Roman bounced off the ropes and nailed a massive dive over the top to wipe them both out. “Oh my god! I’ve never seen Roman Reigns do anything like that!” shouted an excited Michael Cole. Reigns waited for Dean to stand and drilled him with a Spear. Seth rolled inside, but Roman was right behind him. Seth stood and picked up his title, only to turn around into a Spear! Reigns picked up the WWE Title and held it in the air with one arm. “If the big dog can hit that spear on Sunday, we may have a new champion,” said Booker T.  |
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Post by The Kevstaaa on Jun 12, 2017 9:31:27 GMT -5
 NXT: March 25th, 2015 – Agora Theater in Cleveland, Ohio
One week after emanating from Columbus, Ohio, NXT aired from the Agora Theater in Cleveland, Ohio. A recap aired of the highlights from the show in Columbus, capped by Hideo Itami’s win over Corey Graves. Rich Brennan, Jason Albert and Renee Young welcomed viewers to the show, but were quickly cut off by the theme of the All-American Real Americans.
Jack Swagger, Chad Gable, Jason Jordan and Zeb Colter made their way to the ring to a mixed reaction from the Cleveland crowd. Zeb spoke, saying that what happened to Jack Swagger during his open challenge was a damn shame. “That no good Apollo Crews did everything in his power to embarrass a real American. We can’t have things like that happen, which is why Jack went and handled that problem last week. Jack’s taking another week off, so the focus tonight is on the best tag team on the planet, American Alpha. They challenge anyone who thinks they can even compete with them.” Surprisingly, the music of Apollo Crews hit. Swagger stepped in front of American Alpha, ready to face his new rival. Crews stayed atop the stage though, and had a microphone. “Don’t worry guys, I’m not out here to personally ruin another one of your open challenges. And Jack, you better believe I’m not done with you. But tonight is about something else, tonight is about someone else. I have some friends that want to take American Alpha up on their challenge. And one of them is from right here in Cleveland, Ohio!” The crowd popped but the cheers grew louder when the names JOHNNY GARGANO and TOMMASO CIAMPA appeared on the screen. The two independent wrestling standouts came out to unfamiliar music as the crowd roared.
JOHNNY GARGANO AND TOMMASO CIAMPA W/ APOLLO CREWS DEF AMERICAN ALPHA W/ JACK SWAGGER AND ZEB COLTER IN 5:39; The fans were amped from the opening bell and these teams did not disappoint. Gargano and Ciampa worked incredibly well together and like American Alpha’s equals. Their hot start was cut down though, and Gargano got worked over. He made the hot tag to Ciampa, who cleaned house like a madman. In the end, Gable attempted a German suplex but Gargano countered into a pinning combination for the win.
The winners quickly exited the ring and celebrated atop the stage with Apollo Crews. The crowd went nuts as their hometown guy and Tommaso Ciampa have just pulled off one hell of an upset.
Backstage, Devin Taylor interviewed Dana Brooke. She mentioned it was the first time we’ve seen Dana since she lost to Charlotte. Dana was annoyed at that, but said she stood by what she did. “I didn’t come here to wallow with the people at the bottom. I am the total diva. I belong with the best. Sure, Charlotte got lucky, but if you think that’s gonna stop me from reaching the top of NXT, you’ve got another thing coming.”
The same video package that aired last week of Kevin Owens was shown again. It covered his entire NXT run thus far.
Speaking of Kevin Owens, fans were taken to an update on the condition of the man he put on the shelf, Sami Zayn. Doctors say Sami’s back injury will keep him out at least another two months.
Footage aired from earlier in the day, where Bayley worked out at the Performance Center. Becky Lynch came up to her and said that she saw Bayley as an obstacle. “No disrespect meant, because I think you’re a hell of a wrestler, but we both want the same thing. We’re both dying for another shot at Sasha Banks and the NXT Women’s Title.” Bayley interjected, saying she feels the same way. “I don’t think either of us can get a shot while the other is in the way.” Becky said she’d talk to William Regal about figuring something out, which Bayley agreed to.
Devin Taylor stood by with Evan Bourne. She asked him what was next for him. Evan said that losing to Baron Corbin was tough but he’s looking ahead. “I’ve heard Corey Graves and Tyler Breeze talk about it and I want in. This tournament that’s going down during Axxess this weekend. This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for. I was on the main roster, I’ve been a champion and I want that feeling back more than anything. So I’m gonna qualify for the Randy Savage Memorial Intercontinental Title Battle Royal, and then I’m gonna win it.”
A commercial was shown to promote WrestleMania Week on the WWE Network!
This was followed by the NXT commentary team running down the card for WrestleMania.
In the back, Enzo Amore and Colin Cassady entered William Regal’s office. Regal asked if he could do anything for them. Enzo responded by saying they want to face Austin Aries and Bobby Roode. Cass added, “We’ll even put the titles on the line.” Regal said he’d book the match, but doesn’t feel Aries and Roode deserve a title shot. “No, no, Mr. Regal. You don’t understand. We want to give them a title shot. We’re gonna show the world that they are fugazi tough guys and we wanna do it when everything’s on the line.” Regal agreed and the match will happen next week.
A vignette ran to promote Finn Balor, who will get his first crack at the NXT Title in our main event.
Once again, Devin Taylor stood by with Baron Corbin. She asked him for his plans going forward. Corbin said he should be in the tournament to get a spot in the Randy Savage Memorial Battle Royal, but he’s being passed over. “And for who? A pretty boy model who can’t take a punch. Evan Bourne? I beat within an inch of his life at TakeOver. But the one that grinds my gears the most is Shelton Benjamin. This washed-up, has-been came to NXT to fix his failed career and now he’s taking spots from the most deserving Superstars, like me.” Corbin said he will take out his frustrations on the NXT roster.
BECKY LYNCH DEF. NEVAEH IN 3:02; In action for the first time since a crushing defeat at TakeOver: Rival, Becky Lynch faced local competitor Nevaeh. Nevaeh brought the fight to Becky, and even picked up a near fall. The “Lass Kicker” was determined to rebound though, and made her tap to the Dis-Arm-Her.
Devin Taylor stood by with Corey Graves. She asked him about facing Hideo Itami tonight, in a rematch from the Number One Contender’s Tournament. Corey said he wasn’t fussed with it. “I beat Hideo in the tournament and I’ll beat him again tonight. Since he’ll be a cakewalk, I’m looking ahead to WrestleMania weekend. Tyler Breeze brought it up last week but he’s not going to win the tournament to earn a spot in the Randy Savage Memorial Battle Royal. That belongs to me. I’ve done everything in NXT and now it’s time I take things to the next level. The Intercontinental Title sounds like a lovely way to start that, don’t you think?”
NXT CHAMPIONSHIP – KEVIN OWENS (C) DEF. FINN BALOR IN 21:38; The long-awaited title match between two of the top new stars in NXT. Finn Balor started hot, hitting Kevin Owens with everything he had. Owens knew he was in trouble, so he went after Finn’s leg. That took out a lot of Finn’s high impact offense. Finn still hit his big dropkick, though he only used one leg for it. As he went up for the Coup de Grace, the fans rose to their feet. Finn jumped, but his leg gave out and he crashed hard to the mat. Owens took advantage and delivered the Popup Powerbomb to retain the title.
“That’s Finn Balor’s first ever loss here in NXT!” exclaimed Jason Albert. Kevin Owens was not done, though. He dumped Balor outside and shoved the official out of the way. Owens grabbed Balor in position for the apron powerbomb. “This is uncalled for,” said Renee Young. The Cleveland faithful erupted as Finn Balor’s friend, Hideo Itami, rushed down to the ring. He ran down the aisle and knocked down the NXT Champion with the shotgun dropkick. Owens got up, only to get lit up with kicks and strikes from Itami. A final kick sent him over the guardrail, as the crowd went nuts. Owens retreated through the Agora crowd, while Itami checked on Balor.
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Post by The Kevstaaa on Jun 14, 2017 14:02:09 GMT -5
 WWE WrestleMania XXXI: March 29th, 2015 – Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, CaliforniaFollowing the WWE signature, shots of thousands of fans filing into the beautiful Levi’s Stadium were shown. They were jacked for the granddaddy of them all, WrestleMania. High up above the stands, the Kickoff Show panel sat with the WrestleMania stage as a backdrop. Renee Young introduced things, and guaranteed the viewers were in for one of the biggest nights in WWE history. “Joining me for this spectacular event is an esteemed panel. “We have one of our premier analysts and Smackdown commentator, Byron Saxton.” Byron introduced himself before Renee turned her attention to the two WWE Hall of Famers with them. “First, he’s a six-time World Champion and member of the Raw announce team, it’s Booker T!” After Booker said his piece, Renee introduced the final member. “He is the show stopper. He is the main event. He is the icon. Ladies and gentlemen, it’s Mr. WrestleMania, Shawn Michaels!” Shawn wanted to get right into discussing the show, first tackling the match involving his best friend, Triple H. “I’ve seen Hunter in some dire situations that brought out the best and worst in him. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen him like this. Everything’s been threatened. His career, his family, everything. If he loses tonight, the entire WWE would change,” said HBK. He predicted a win for HHH, as did Renee, but Booker and Byron went with Bray. They continued to run down the card, with most of the predictions being split, including each member of the panel picking a different woman for the Women’s Title match. It was interesting to note that three panel members, all except Booker, saw John Cena ending Alexander Rusev’s undefeated streak tonight. After much discussion, Renee sent things to the ring for our Kickoff match. WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP – ERICK ROWAN AND LUKE HARPER (C) VS. THE USOS; No Bray Wyatt with the Tag Team Champions today. The Usos started hot, taking it right to their larger opponents with a flurry of strikes and kicks. “I don’t think the Usos want to get into a slugfest with Rowan and Harper,” said Mauro Ranallo. It indeed backfired, as the champions turned it around and sent the Usos outside. Harper followed out with a suicide dive attempt, but the Usos avoided it and he crashed. They slid inside and took out Rowan with a double superkick, sending him out next to Rowan. They hit stereo dives on the champions and the crowd roared to their feet. “The Usos are on a mission tonight,” said Tom Phillips. Back inside, things slowed down to a more traditional tag match. Rowan and Harper got back in the driver’s seat by using their power advantage. They isolated Jey, wearing him down. Harper nearly won it with a sitout powerbomb, that even Jimmy couldn’t break up in time, but Jey barely got the shoulder up. Jey caught him with an impressive Samoan drop and had his opening for the tag. Both men reached over and tagged in their partners, with Jimmy coming in hot. He hit Rowan with right hands and a Samoan drop of his own. Rowan slid outside, where Jey traded blows with him. Harper came back in with a big boot that Jimmy ducked. Jimmy delivered a superkick, but Harper immediately responded with a discus lariat. He connected on a suicide dive this time, taking out Jey and rolling his partner back inside. “The Wyatts can smell a victory,” said Mauro. Rowan draped his arm over Jimmy, but only got a two count. He waited for Jimmy to get up and tried the full nelson slam. Jimmy wriggled free and rolled Rowan into the Tequila Sunrise! “I’ve never seen Jimmy do that,” exclaimed Phillips. Harper slid back in and broke the hold with a kick. Jey followed and clotheslined him over the top. Rowan crawled to a seated position in the corner, where Jimmy ran in with a hip attack like his uncle Umaga. Jey got on the apron, Jimmy tagged him, and Jey climbed up top. Jimmy took out Harper with a somersault off the apron, while Jey hit a big splash for the 1-2-3. The Usos defeated Erick Rowan and Luke Harper to win the WWE Tag Team Championship in 9:09!
The fans rose to their feet as the Usos were handed the titles they lost back in August. “The Usos fell from the top of the mountain and spent months of the shelf. They got their revenge on Batista and Randy Orton, but now they got what they really wanted,” said Mauro. The brothers embraced as the panel took back over.
Renee Young gushed over that Kickoff match, saying it was a small indication of what’s in store for tonight. They moved into covering the epic encounter between Sting the Undertaker. Shawn Michaels chimed in again, “I know better than anyone the force that is the Undertaker at WrestleMania. The question is, how does The Undertaker rebound from the ending of the streak? That’s something I can’t wait to find out.” Again, the panel was split in their predictions, with Byron and Shawn picking the Undertaker. The final bout they discussed was the WWE World Heavyweight Title match. “They were the most dominant faction in WWE history. I’m expecting this to be one of the greatest main events in WrestleMania history,” said Byron. Things were thrown to a final video package set to “Centuries” by Fall Out Boy, to close out the Kickoff show.
The WWE signature appeared again and the cameras went straight to a shot of the cavernous Levi’s Stadium. Grammy nominated singer Aloe Blacc, born in California, opened the show with a beautiful rendition of “America the Beautiful.” When he wrapped up, pyro shot off and jets flew over the stadium.
A video package aired, showing the silhouettes of several WWE Superstars, who spoke over them. They talked about WrestleMania being the biggest night of the year and the place where everything comes to a head. “Tonight, the world sees why I’m the biggest star in this business.” – Batista. “Tonight, the beast is unleashed.” – Paul Heyman. “Tonight, hell, every night since October, I make the Intercontinental Title relevant.” – Dolph Ziggler. “Tonight, you people get a reminder that I’m the best in the world.” – CM Punk. “Tonight, a man I thought was a friend is going to tap out.” – Daniel Bryan. “Tonight, I bring the US Title back to America and end an undefeated streak.” – John Cena. “Tonight, RUSEV CRUSH.” – Alexander Rusev. “Tonight, I do it for my sister.” – Nikki Bella. “I do it for the title I brought back.” – Paige. “I do it for the title I’ve coveted my entire life.” – AJ Lee. “I do it for me, because that’s all that matters.” – Emma. The Wyatt signature hit to interrupt the video. Clips aired of the history between Bray Wyatt and Triple H. Bray’s voice is heard over the clips, “Tonight, the WWE becomes part of my family.” The original video returns, focusing on the Shield. “The Shield was the most dominant faction of all-time and I was the most dominant member. That title comes home with me tonight,” said Roman Reigns. “I assembled the Shield. Every move I’ve made in my career has led me to the top of this business and tonight, it leads me to leaving WrestleMania with my title,” said Seth Rollins. “I’m just ready to cause some havoc,” said Dean Ambrose. The final shots of the video focused on Sting and The Undertaker. “Tonight, I make my debut at WrestleMania and win my dream match.” – Sting. “Tonight, I right the wrong from last year and put Sting to rest.” – The Undertaker.
“Centuries” by Fall Out Boy played in the background as more pyro shot off. The commentary trio of Michael Cole, Booker T and Jerry Lawler welcomed fans to the “Showcase of the Immortals” and got right into the action.
 WWE UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP – ALEXANDER RUSEV (C) W/ LANA VS. JOHN CENA; John Cena came out in red, white and blue gear. Atop the stage, he pulled out his old spinning United States Title and looked into the camera, saying, “We bringing this back.” Alexander Rusev’s entrance was much more extravagant, as he was brought to the ring in a giant tank. “What an entrance for Rusev, but look at John Cena’s face. No intimidation,” said Michael Cole. When the bell rang, Cena continued to show no fear and came right in with a forearm shot. Rusev brushed it off and kicked away at Cena’s legs, sending the former 14-time World Champion to his knees. Cena attempted to take Rusev to the mat, but the champion overpowered him. He trapped Cena in the corner and drove his shoulder into Cena’s ribs repeatedly. He hoisted Cena up and dropped him with a side slam. “Cena is just getting manhandled,” said Lawler. That only got two, so Rusev took to wearing Cena down for the Accolade. He tried applying it, but Cena rolled over and kicked him away. Cena charged in with a bulldog, followed by his signature shoulder blocks and set up for the Five Knuckle Shuffle. He ran off the ropes, but Lana tripped him. The referee caught her and went to call for the DQ, but Cena grabbed his arm to stop him. He pointed to the entrance, which brought the fans to their feet. The referee turned and ejected Lana to a huge pop. “We’ve never seen Alexander Rusev without Lana guiding him,” exclaimed Booker. When Rusev saw Lana leaving, his face fell. He argued with the referee, opening the door for Cena, who caught him with a fisherman suplex for two. Cena went up top and hit the diving Fameasser for another near fall. Cena could smell victory and hoisted Rusev up for the Attitude Adjustment. Rusev elbowed his way out and grabbed the ropes to block it. He got free and attempted a shuffle side kick, but Cena sidestepped it. Again, he got Rusev up for the AA, but fell and Rusev landed on top of him. Rusev quickly locked in the Accolade and things looked bleak. Cena struggled, but couldn’t get free. He began to fade and the referee raised his arm. It dropped. He raised it again. It fell once more. A third time and Cena fired up! He tried rising to his feet with Rusev on his back. “What am I seeing?” asked Cole. Rusev’s eyes widened in shock, but Cena’s power gave out and he slipped. With Rusev back in control, Cena passed out in the submission. Alexander Rusev defeated John Cena to retain the WWE United States Championship in 13:36!
Shock fell over the Levi’s Stadium crowd as Alexander Rusev was announced the winner. He snatched the United States Title from the referee and wildly celebrated amongst the boos. Lana met him halfway up the ramp and planted a kiss on his cheek. John Cena came to in the ring, struggling to pull himself up on the ropes. He stared up the ramp, watching Rusev celebrate and realizing what happened. He exited the ring with his head down. “What now? If John Cena can’t stop Alexander Rusev, just who the hell can?” asked Michael Cole.
An advertisement ran to promote WWE’s new partnership with Tapout. Several Superstars, including John Cena, AJ Lee, Dolph Ziggler, Seth Rollins and Ryback, were shown working out in the gear.
A short video package aired, showing clips of the group known as Legacy. Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes and Ted Dibiase used their family lineages to join forces and run through the WWE in 2009. Cody learned from Randy, but Randy always made sure the focus was on him. Randy racked up multiple WWE Title wins and when the group split, Dibiase was supposed to be the star. It was Cody who took off. He’s come close to true greatness several times, but has never reached the levels of his former Legacy leader. CODY RHODES VS. RANDY ORTON; As soon as the bell rang, Cody Rhodes walked right up to Randy Orton and the two traded words. Orton shoved him, so Cody responded with his own, sending Orton on his ass. “Cody Rhodes is fired up tonight,” said Booker T. An angered Orton stood and pulled him into a headlock. Cody shoved him to the ropes and overpowered him with a shoulder block. Orton rolled outside to regroup. Once back in, he snuck in a chop block to take control. The methodical Orton came out, as he picked apart Cody. He took him to the mat and stomped away at each part of Cody’s body. Cody started making a comeback and nailed a gorgeous moonsault for a near fall. However, His Disaster Kick attempt saw him springboard right into a powerslam. “Randy Orton is an athletic freak of nature,” said Lawler. Cody rolled to the apron, which is exactly where Orton wanted him. He hooked Cody for the rope hung DDT, which he did at WrestleMania XXIV to both Cody and Ted. Cody got his feet free, slipped his hands under Randy and picked up for the Alabama Slam, which got a near fall. He followed up with the Cross Rhodes, but Orton got his shoulder up. “What’s it gonna take to keep Randy Orton down?” asked Cole. Cody looked around, unsure of what to try next. He set Orton up and pulled out a Muscle Buster, and yet that still wasn’t enough. Cody looked at the ropes and seemed ready to hit the Disaster Kick. He jumped on the middle rope and Orton went for the RKO out of nowhere, but Cody wisely held onto the ropes, faking Orton out. Confused, Orton got up and was met with a successful Disaster Kick, securing Cody’s win. Cody Rhodes defeated Randy Orton in 9:19!
The fans leapt and roared as Cody Rhodes finally got the big win over Randy Orton. “He fought back the challenge of his older brother. He came so close to winning the Survival Trials after an incredible performance. He beat future Hall of Famers like John Cena and Chris Jericho, but this one has to be the sweetest victory for Cody Rhodes,” said Michael Cole.
Viewers were taken to a video package going back to Ring of Honor footage. CM Punk and Daniel Bryan were stars together on the independent wrestling scene. Both men were underdogs who were never expected to make it to the WWE, yet both have made it to the top and held the WWE World Heavyweight Title. CM Punk walked out on the WWE at the start of 2014, just as Daniel Bryan took off. Punk sat at home and watched as Bryan got the WrestleMania main event he never did. When Punk returned, he had a shot at Bryan’s WWE Title, but came up just short at Battleground. The two teamed up, winning the Tag Team Titles together. Bryan was put through a table, causing the loss of the titles. At the Royal Rumble, tensions boiled over and they brawled. Punk went home to gather his thoughts and when he returned, all seemed right. Things took an ugly turn when Punk attacked Bryan after a grueling WWE Title match, leading them to this match. Everything got extra personal on Monday, when Punk delivered a Go to Sleep to Bryan’s wife, Brie Bella.
 CM PUNK VS. DANIEL BRYAN; CM Punk came to the ring in Wolverine themed attire. Daniel Bryan was all business and nearly ripped Punk’s head off before the bell rang. Once it did, he charged forward, but Punk rolled outside, angering Bryan. Punk only rolled inside briefly to break up the count. Bryan saw enough and bounced off the ropes with a suicide dive to take Punk out. “It’s got to feel good for Daniel Bryan to get some revenge,” said Cole. Bryan continued the assault on the outside, throwing Punk into the guardrail and announce table, as well as choking him with cables. Bryan grabbed a steel chair, but the fans chanted “No,” not wanting Bryan to lose via disqualification. Bryan looked at the WWE Universe and put down the chair. It gave Punk time to recover, as he struck and sent Bryan into the ring post. Once back inside, Punk seemingly toed with Bryan. He talked trash, slapped Bryan’s head around and smiled while on the offensive. “I don’t say this often, but I hate that guy,” said Lawler. Punk picked Bryan up for the GTS, but Bryan elbowed free, bringing the crowd to their feet. He got behind Punk and delivered a bridging German suplex for two. Bryan went up top for the flying goat headbutt, but Punk rolled away to avoid it. As soon as Bryan stirred to his knees, Punk started in with kicks to the chest, while mocking the “Yes” chants. He nailed the big final kick, picking up a near fall. Bryan tripped him up and Punks scurried to the corner. Bryan delivered a few stomps, but when he stopped, Punk shouted “HOW’S BRIE?” Rage came over Bryan’s face and he went in with stomp after stomp, ignoring the referee’s count. “Daniel, don’t! This is what Punk wants,” said Cole. When the referee’s count hit four, Bryan backed up and shouted, “I HAVE UNTIL FIVE!” The crowd popped for that and Punk’s eyes widened, realizing his plan wasn’t going to work. Bryan pulled Punk up and fired off a series of strikes and kicks. That sent Punk to the corner and Bryan followed in with a big dropkick. Punk fell forward on his face and Bryan ran to the corner, looking for the Busaiku Knee. Punk got up, but dropped his shoulder and picked Bryan up for the GTS. Again, Bryan wriggled free and tried pulling Punk down into the Yes Lock. Just when he seemed to have it applied, Punk rolled him over into a pinning combination and grabbed the ropes for leverage, stealing the three count. CM Punk defeated Daniel Bryan in 18:42!
A chorus of boos rained down from the thousands in attendance. CM Punk scurried out of the ring and towards the ramp, while Daniel Bryan looked on in disbelief. He couldn’t believe he lost like that. Punk raised his arms while backing up the ramp and shouted, “BEST IN THE WORLD!” Daniel Bryan kicked the ropes in frustration, knowing he didn’t get the revenge he wanted tonight.
In the back, Renee Young stood by with Dean Ambrose. She asked for his thoughts on the biggest match of his career tonight. Dean said he was always the kind of guy who people said would never make it to WrestleMania, let alone main event it. Before he could continue, WWE Hall of Famer Roddy Piper entered the picture. A surprised Dean welcomed him with a handshake. Roddy was in a serious mood and told Dean that tonight was hugely important. “Not just for you. Guys like you and me, the nutcases, they say we can never make it to the top. I never won a World Title and it eats me up to this day. But you. You can be different. You have a chance to go out there tonight and win the big one on the big stage. Do it for guys like us tonight.” Piper shook his hand at this point and left.
A video package was shown, starting with the finals of the NXT Women’s Title Tournament two years ago. Paige and Emma tore the house down, paving the way for women’s wrestling to be taken more seriously. Meanwhile, AJ Lee was making waves as the longest reigning Divas Champion in history. Paige and Emma both made it to the main roster, with different results. Emma became a joke, while Paige and AJ embarked on the 2014 Rivalry of the Year. Emma turned her back on Paige and dethroned her for the Women’s Title. Since then, the paranoid champion has seriously injured Paige, AJ and Brie Bella. That brought Nikki Bella to the forefront. Capping a 2014 where she improved her in-ring skills, Nikki never quite got revenge on Emma. Tonight, the four of them come together in one of the biggest women’s matches in history.
 WWE WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP – EMMA (C) VS. AJ LEE VS. NIKKI BELLA VS. PAIGE; The four women stood, one in each corner, as the match began. Emma quickly realized she was in trouble. Her three opponents moved towards her, backing her in the corner. They all jumped her, taking turns hitting her with some of their offense. “Emma deserves every bit of this,” said Cole. After AJ clocked her with the Shining Wizard, the champion rolled outside. AJ, Paige and Nikki all ran at each other with forearms and just went to war. Nikki ducked a spin kick from AJ and walloped her with a vicious forearm. Paige took a bit more, as she got Nikki on the ropes and delivered repeated knee strikes. AJ was back up and tripped Paige, knocking her off the apron. Inside, AJ went for the Black Widow on Nikki, but Emma returned and broke it up. The aggressive champion sent AJ to the corner and delivered the Emmamite Sandwich for a near fall. Paige slid inside and stared across the ring at her former friend. They both ran forward and traded strikes. Paige won out, beating Emma down into the corner. She whipped Emma to the opposite corner, where Nikki got up and knocked her out with a forearm. “That had to feel good for Nikki,” said Booker. Nikki and Paige traded some offense, before Paige hit the Paige Turner. Her pin was interrupted by AJ Lee. The fans rose to their feet at the sight of AJ and Paige facing off. “The 2014 Rivalry of the Year is reborn,” said Cole. Looking to see who was better, they surprisingly slowed the pace and tried gaining an advantage over the other. AJ went for the Black Widow, but Paige slipped free and tried the Paige Turner. AJ kicked her off to block that and hit the ropes, only to be caught with the RamPaige. Paige’s pin was broken up by Emma, who clubbed away at Paige’s back. She picked Paige up for the Michinoku Driver, but Paige slipped free and hooked her for the PTO. Nikki returned with another forearm, but Paige ducked and clotheslined her to the outside. Turning back to Emma, she was greeted with a Michinoku Driver. Paige barely go a shoulder up before the count of three. Emma couldn’t believe it. She regrouped, and set up for the Dilemma. Before she could fall back into the hold, AJ Lee ran at her and trapped her in the Black Widow. Emma had nowhere to go, with her legs still tied up with Paige’s. Paige frantically reached back but couldn’t get free or reach the hold. Emma was forced to tap out. AJ Lee defeated Emma, Nikki Bella and Paige to win the WWE Women’s Championship in 11:31!
AJ Lee released the hold and received cheers from the audience. Emma fell to the mat, while Paige looked to be on the verge of tears. She was so close, but was ultimately helpless as the match came to its conclusion. Nikki Bella got up at ringside and watched as the official placed the Women’s Title in AJ Lee’s arms. AJ dropped to her knees, with tears in her eyes, as she clutched the championship she dreamt about since she was a homeless kid in New Jersey. “A record setting Divas Title reign was one thing, but WWE Women’s Champion is truly something special for AJ Lee,” said Michael Cole.
In the back, WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins was shown warming up for our main event. The crowd erupted when Shawn Michaels stepped into the picture. There was awkward silence before Shawn said that he just had one thing to say. “A lot of people hate you for what you did to Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns. I know that feeling. When I threw Marty Jannetty through that barber shop window, people were not happy with me. But if I didn’t do that, I would’ve never become the Heartbreak Kid, the Showstopper or Mr. WrestleMania. Good luck out there tonight, champ.” Shawn exited and Seth cracked a small smirk before going back to warming up.
BATISTA VS. BROCK LESNAR W/ PAUL HEYMAN; The clash of the titans. Two of the biggest, baddest names in the wrestling business collided. Batista went for a right hand to start things, only for Brock to duck and connect on a big German suplex. “Oh my god, look at Batista,” said Booker. Batista popped right up from the German suplex and flexed his muscles. Brock was stunned. He charged in, lifting Batista and backing him to the corner where he hit some shoulder thrusts. Brock hooked him for another German, and again, Batista popped up. Brock charged again, right into a spinebuster. Paul Heyman couldn’t believe what he was seeing. “The Animal is revved up,” said Cole. Batista shook the ropes, signaling for the Batista Bomb. He connected on it and covered, but Brock kicked out. Now it was Batista’s turn to be surprised. Batista went to the corner, looking for the spear. Brock jumped clean over Batista, who ran shoulder first into the corner. “Brock Lesnar is a freak of nature,” said Lawler. Batista crumpled to the floor outside. Brock followed, clubbing away at Batista’s back, only for Batista to pull him into the ring post. After rolling Brock inside, Batista tried bringing in the steel steps, but the referee warned him of a DQ. Batista slid in and again signaled for the finish. He set Brock for the Batista Bomb, but Brock stood, bringing Batista onto his shoulders. He planted him with the F5 to a pop. Knowing it won’t be enough, Brock lifted Batista up again and nailed a second F5 to win. Brock Lesnar defeated Batista in 7:12!
“What a monster movie like collision,” said Michael Cole. Paul Heyman entered and raised Brock Lesnar’s hand. Brock looked down at Batista, knowing he took him to war. Before leaving, Paul had Brock stop. He turned to the camera and motioned around Brock’s waist. Brock wants his title back.
An advertisement was shown of the WWE’s partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Cutting to the stadium, WWF Hall of Famer Howard Finkel entered the ring. He introduced this year’s Hall of Fame inductees to come to the stage. Diamond Dallas Page, Tatsumi Fujinami, Vader, Molly Holly, the Steiner Brothers and Connor Michalek’s father and brother were introduced to a nice hand. Lanny Poffo, brother of Randy Savage, was introduced to a standing ovation.
“Final Masquerade” by Linkin Park played over a video package as the battle of the icons was coming up next. Footage was shown was from the entire collective careers of Sting and The Undertaker. One man, fiercely loyal to the WWE and one man, fiercely loyal to the WCW. Both superstars spent over a decade with their respective companies, both won seven World Titles with them and both have never faced the other.
 STING VS. THE UNDERTAKER; For the first time in WrestleMania history, Sting made his entrance. A crow rested on his shoulder as he walked out to a standing ovation. Once in the ring, he let the crow fly away over the crowd. The Undertaker’s entrance was a rather strange sight considering the daylight surrounding the stadium. The two legends stood across the ring from one another. “This is a moment in time,” said Michael Cole. Their first lockup sent Sting to the mat, and Undertaker rolled his eyes to the back of his head. Sting went back in for the tie up, and surprised many by shoving Undertaker to the ground. He beat his chest and let out a roar as the crowd went wild. Undertaker looked stunned at this turn of events. He came back with throat thrusts, backing Sting into the corner. Taker started reeling off his soup bones. Sting avoided a back elbow, hit the other corner and came back with the Stinger Splash. Undertaker moved and caught him with a big boot. Undertaker got in control, hitting Sting with his signature offense, including the guillotine leg drop and sidewalk slam. He planted Sting with the Chokeslam, but only got a near fall. “Undertaker’s going for the kill,” said Booker. He got Sting up for the Tombstone, but Sting used his momentum to turn it over and hit Taker with a Tombstone of his own. Undertaker kicked out and Sting got aggressive, mounting him with right hands. Now it was Sting’s turn to get on the offensive. Undertaker used the ropes in the corner to pull himself to his feet. Sting was ready and hit him with the Stinger Splash to a pop. He ran back and tried another, but Undertaker ducked his shoulder and caught Sting. He turned him over and hit snake eyes. Sting didn’t fall, so Taker delivered the Tombstone. He covered, but this time Sting got his shoulder up and the crowd came alive again. A bewildered Undertaker pulled his straps down and raised a fist in the air. He continued the assault by delivering the Last Ride. However, the toll of the match was taking effect, as he fell to his knee and couldn’t cover in time, allowing Sting to get a shoulder up when he did. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen this side of the Undertaker. He’s in control, but doesn’t look good,” said Lawler. A tired Undertaker did his signature throat cut signal, looking for another Tombstone. As soon as he grabbed Sting, the WCW Icon slipped behind him and hit the Scorpion Death Drop. Undertaker wasn’t done though, kicking out. Sting was still fired up, getting to his feet and shouting, “IT’S SHOWTIME!” As he stepped to Undertaker’s legs for the Scorpion Death Lock, The Undertaker sat up to a monster ovation. “The Deadman rises!” shouted Cole. A nervous Sting backed up as Undertaker got to his feet. The two stood across from one another and both fired off strikes. Undertaker won out with his excellent striking ability. Undertaker got him over his shoulder for the Tombstone. Sting wriggled free, landing on his feet behind the Undertaker and hitting a second Scorpion Death Drop. He covered and got the three count, with Undertaker kicking out a split second too late. Sting defeated The Undertaker in 14:16!
Almost like last year, shock fell over the crowd. They never expected Undertaker to lose again at WrestleMania. Both men laid on the mat, worn out from the battle. Sting stood first, a bit surprised at the result as well. The Undertaker tried sitting up, but couldn’t get all the way up. “What are we seeing?” asked Michael Cole. Sting came over and extended his hand, helping the legend to his feet. They kept the handshake and embraced to a standing ovation. Sting left the ring, leaving The Undertaker alone. Undertaker had his head down and his hands on his hips. The fans and commentators gave him a standing ovation, just like last year. He calmly walked over to his gear, bringing his hat and trench coat to the center of the ring. He folded them neatly, before removing his gloves and placing them on top. Undertaker dropped to one knee, giving the fans one final signature taunt. Several fans were shown with tears in their eyes. The Undertaker exited the ring, the standing ovation still going as he reached the top of the ramp. He raised one fist atop the stage, before heading to the back for the final time.
An advertisement was shown for WWE 2K15, focusing on a simulation of the WWE World Heavyweight Title main event.
Cutting back to the Kickoff, they discussed what just went down. Shawn Michaels was floored, saying he couldn’t believe it. “Nothing against Sting, but I did not expect that. I gave The Undertaker every shot I had, twice at WrestleMania and I couldn’t get it done. It cost me my career.” Renee Young turned the focus elsewhere, showing a recap of the Usos winning the Tag Team Titles on the Kickoff Show.
 RANDY SAVAGE MEMORIAL INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP BATTLE ROYAL; Lanny Poffo was the guest timekeeper for this bout. The ring was filled with Superstars before we saw the entrances of Tyson Kidd and Cesaro, Adrian Neville, The Miz, Chris Jericho, and Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler. Also given an entrance was the winner of the NXT Axxess Tournament, Corey Graves. With 36 participants, the ring was crowded, so several eliminations came quickly. Brodus Clay, Justin Gabriel, Damien Sandow, Los Matadores, the Prime Time Players, Curtis Axel, Fandango, R-Truth, Adam Rose, Santino Marella, Mark Henry and Sin Cara were the first guys eliminated. With most guys paired off, 3MB stopped across the ring the New Day. They began playing air guitar at the New Day. “What the hell are they doing?” asked Lawler. New Day looked around and responded with their own air band, drawing a pop from the WWE Universe. They stopped, but 3MB only got more into it. The New Day ran forward and clotheslined all three over and out, only to get dumped out from behind by Kidd and Cesaro. Shortly after, Kane and Big Show came face to face, reigniting a rivalry of over a decade. They traded blows and nearly eliminated one another. Just when Show nearly had Kane eliminated, Bo Dallas came up and tried to dump both out. He turned and celebrated, thinking it worked, only to back right into them. Bo pleaded with Show about their partnership, but Kane grabbed him by the throat. Show then attacked Kane, sending him over and out. Bo celebrated, but Show also dumped him out, sending his partner into tears. Goldust was eliminated by Ziggler at this point, while Cesaro came up to Big Show. In one fell swoop, he hoisted Show up, walked with him towards the ropes and body slammed him to the outside! “That was one of the most incredible feats of strength, I have ever seen!” exclaimed Cole. The fans came to their feet for that move. Meanwhile, Ryback was performing his own feats of strength, eliminating the most Superstars until Alberto Del Rio hit him low and got rid of him. Kidd and Cesaro worked together to try and end Christian’s chance at one more match, only for the Miz to slither in and toss all three over. Graves surprised many by making it this far, until a well-placed superkick from the champion sent him packing. “This is it. We’re down to just four,” said Booker. In each corner stood The Miz, Dolph Ziggler, Adrian Neville and Chris Jericho. All three men looked to the Miz, who went under the bottom rope and under the ring. Annoyed, Neville and Dolph looked to follow, but Jericho dropkicked Neville from behind, sending him over the top. Neville hung on for dear life and pulled himself back in. Jericho then hit Ziggler with the Codebreaker. He went for the Lionsault, but Neville ran up to him and shoved him over the top, ending his hope of a 10th IC Title. The Miz returned to the ring and tried dumping Neville over, but he dodged it and used Miz’s momentum to send him out. Neville turned to Ziggler, the man he nearly dethroned for the title at TLC, who was just getting up. Neville pounced, but Ziggler met him with a superkick. It sent Neville stumbling back to the ropes. Miz pulled it down, nearly sending Neville over, but his leg got trapped in the ropes. He hung upside down, while Miz got in free shots. Jericho pulled the Miz off and fought with him to the back. Ziggler untied Neville, but he fell to the apron and quickly scrambled back in. Neville countered Ziggler and hit a tornado DDT. He climbed up top and looked down at Dolph. “Don’t do it Adrian, this is why you lost at TLC,” said Cole. He went for the Red Arrow, but Ziggler moved and Neville crashed. Ziggler picked him up and tried tossing him over, but Neville turned at the last second, using Ziggler momentum to send him over and out. Adrian Neville last eliminated Dolph Ziggler to win the WWE Intercontinental Championship at 11:58!
Dolph Ziggler placed his hands on his head in disbelief. His phenomenal Intercontinental Title reign was over. Adrian Neville fell to the mat before popping up and celebrating. Ziggler walked around the ring and snatched the title from Lanny Poffo. He slid in the ring and grabbed Neville to turn him around. The fans waited to see if something would go down, but Dolph handed the title to Neville and patted him on the back. Neville took the title and celebrated on the middle rope with it.
Backstage, Roman Reigns was shown taping up his fists. Someone entered the picture that we couldn’t see. Reigns stood and the camera panned up to reveal The Rock. The family membered embraced and greeted one another. The Rock said he was there for one simple thing. “You know The Rock has main evented his fair share of WrestleManias. I did it against the likes of Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H, Mick Foley and John Cena. Yet, through all that, The Rock has only won one of those matches. So, The Rock is here to tell you not to take this for granted.” The Rock told him that is was his time. “Go out there and show them what Samoan pride is and whip Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins’ monkey asses all over Levi’s Stadium!” Roman smirked and said, “That’s exactly what I’m gonna do. Believe that.” He walked off, leaving an impressed Rock behind.
A video package set to “Hail to the King” by Avenged Sevenfold played. It dated back to October, when Vince McMahon returned to make an announcement, only for the Wyatt Family to make their own shocking return and put him in the hospital. Looking for retribution for his father-in-law, Triple H tried taking on the Wyatt Family, only to also end up in the hospital. For the next few months, Bray and Shane McMahon went to war. Just when the McMahons were ready to hand over the reigns of the company to the Wyatt Family and give into their thirst for power, Triple H returned and evened the odds. At the Royal Rumble, HHH and the McMahons defeated the Wyatt Family. At Fastlane, Luke Harper and Erick Rowan defeated Shane and Triple H, earning Bray tonight’s match. Since then, Bray’s played mind games with the “Cerebral Assassin”, even going as far to involve his children. No Holds Barred. The winner gets control of the WWE. Now. NO HOLDS BARRED – BRAY WYATT VS. TRIPLE H; For Triple H’s entrance, every theme song he’s had played over a video of his career highlights. It ended with “King of Kings”, as he made his way to the ring, holding a sledgehammer. Bray Wyatt came down a line of scarecrows, each holding a lantern and acting as his fireflies. Triple H wasted no time, going outside and jumping Bray before he could get in the ring. The two men brawled out the outside, but Triple H was unable to use the sledgehammer because Bray ducked the attempted use of it. HHH ran into the ring post with the hammer, dropping it and holding his hands in pain. “The Game’s in trouble, and that means the entire company is,” said Lawler. Bray threw HHH into the steel steps, before looking to get truly extreme. He pulled a few steel chairs out from under the ring, sliding most in the ring. Bray used one to whack HHH in the back twice, causing him to fall over the guardrail and into the crowd. Bray followed with the chair, but it was here where HHH turned the tide. He caught Bray with a shot to the midsection and took the chair. He held it high in the air, bringing the roar of the crowd with him, before bringing it down on Bray’s back. Now it was Bray who scrambled away and back over the guardrail. Bray slid in the ring and caught HHH with an impactful running body block once he entered. “Bray’s game plan has been well executed thus far,” said Cole. Bray took to pounding on HHH, even hitting a release suplex onto the chairs. He put HHH in the corner and pulled his lifeless body out, strangely dancing with him. HHH took that opening, shoving Bray off to the ropes and planting him with a loud spinebuster. The Game popped up and let out a roar, before hitting a Pedigree. That wasn’t enough though. He pointed outside at his sledgehammer, getting them even more excited. He went to retrieve it, but at that moment, Erick Rowan and Luke Harper made their way to the ring. “Oh, what the hell is this?” asked Booker. He didn’t see them as he waited for Bray to get up. They tripped him and pulled him outside, where they delivered a beating. The crowd came unglued as Vince and Shane McMahon also came out, wielding sledgehammers of their own. When they got to ringside, Shane hit Harper in the back, while Vince absolutely clocked Rowan in the face. They directed HHH back into the ring, where Bray was near his feet. HHH’s sledgehammer was in the middle of the ring and they both went for it. HHH got there first, but Bray kicked him in the mouth and took it, striking HHH in the gut. With HHH down, Bray exited the ring. He pulled out a bag from under the ring. “I hope that’s not what I think it is,” said Cole. Back inside, Bray emptied the contents, pouring thousands of thumbtacks on the mat. Bray picked HHH up and planted him onto the tacks with a vicious uranage! HHH screamed in pain, with tacks piercing his skin. Not done, Bray hit the ropes and went for a senton, but HHH managed to roll away in the nick of time, causing Bray to go back first into the pile of tacks. It was Bray’s turn to let out a yell. With tacks in his back, HHH yelled something to Shane. Shane figured it out, retrieving another bag from under the ring. This one was revealed to have barbed wire in it. “This is gone way too far,” said Booker. Before he could use it, Bray delivered a low blow, causing HHH to drop the barbed wire. Bray picked up a chair and proceeded to destroy HHH with it, hitting him seven times all over the body. A sick look came across Bray’s face. He placed the chair on the mat and grabbed the barbed wire. In a sickening display, he wrapped it around HHH’s head, before holding his lifeless body in position. Bray stared out at Vince and Shane as he kissed HHH in the forehead and drove him onto the steel chair with Sister Abigail. The McMahons charged forward, but Harper and Rowan pulled them back. Bray covered, getting the 1-2-3. Bray Wyatt defeated Triple H in 18:47!
“Oh, my god. What the hell do we do now?” asked Michael Cole. Vince McMahon fell to his knees outside, while Shane looked on in disbelief. Erick Rowan and Luke Harper joined Bray Wyatt in the ring. Bray knelt over Triple H’s unconscious body with his arms stretched out. “I’VE GOT THE WHOLE WORLD IN MY HANDS!” he shouted. “Next Monday night, Bray Wyatt officially takes control of the WWE and I shudder to imagine what that means,” said Cole.
Before the main event, viewers were taken to a special video package. Back in November 2012, three men took the WWE by storm. Dean Ambrose, Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins debuted as the Shield and destroyed everyone in their path. John Cena, Sheamus, Randy Orton, Ryback, Daniel Bryan, The Undertaker, Evolution, The Wyatt Family and even The Rock. Nobody was safe. After two years as the most dominant faction in WWE history, their existence was on the line at Survivor Series against the Authority. However, on that night Rollins turned on his brothers, siding with the Authority and breaking up the Shield. Seth’s career took off, winning the vacant Money in the Bank briefcase against Ambrose. At the Royal Rumble, the former Shield members were the final three in the Rumble match. Seth was eliminated by Reigns, but the referees missed it. He then tossed Reigns out and was eliminated by Dean, who won. Seth successfully cashed in later that night, becoming the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Dean put his WrestleMania title shot on the line against his buddy Roman, only for Seth to intervene. That led to tonight’s main event being turned into a triple threat.
 WWE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – SETH ROLLINS (C) VS. DEAN AMBROSE VS. ROMAN REIGNS; Roman Reigns made his entrance through the crowd for the first time since the Shield split, in a special entrance. Dean Ambrose was brought out on a gurney, in a straightjacket. He was wheeled to the ring by doctors, who removed the jacket for him. For Seth Rollins’ entrance, a large shield stood by the entrance. It cracked down the middle and he kicked his way through it with his theme playing. “As symbolic an entrance as you’ll ever see,” said Cole. As soon as the bell sounded, Reigns and Ambrose jumped Rollins in the corner, getting some measure of revenge for the past four months. They took turns hitting him with offense, as the crowd popped for each move. Finally, Seth rolled outside, leaving the good brothers alone. Reigns and Ambrose shrugged and began trading strikes. Ambrose attempted a DDT, but Reigns sent him to the ropes and connected on a Samoan drop. Rollins returned with a flying cross body that sent Reigns outside. He quickly followed up with a suicide dive. His celebration of that move was cut short when Ambrose immediately followed him with his own suicide dive. “The Lunatic Fringe just took flight,” said Booker. Ambrose took Rollins and battered him around ringside, before tossing him into the timekeeper’s area. Reigns then took out Ambrose with a spear through the barricade! “Oh, my god!” exclaimed Lawler. Rollins stood and saw his fallen former brothers. He picked up Reigns and looked to powerbomb him into another guardrail. Reigns countered with a back drop and let out a roar. He cleared off the announce table, garnering a huge reaction. Rollins grabbed a steel chair and cracked it over Reigns’ back, just like he did at Survivor Series. Rollins posed with the chair over his head, celebrating the attack. Ambrose got up and jumped him, hitting a suplex outside. Ambrose looked at the table and shook Roman, bringing him to his feet. Dean extended his fist, causing the crowd to go wild. Reigns bumped it and they got Rollins up, Shield powerbombing him through the announce table! “There’s that sweet revenge they’ve been looking for,” said Booker. Reigns and Ambrose celebrated, before both men slid in the ring, looking to continue this one on one. They battled, with neither man gaining a true upper hand until Reigns caught him with the Superman punch, picking up a near fall. Reigns went to the corner, gearing up for the Spear. He connected with it, only for Dean to roll outside, avoiding a pin. Reigns desperately reached for Dean as he fell. He quickly followed outside and put Dean back inside, covering and only getting a near fall. “Reigns can sense it,” said Cole as Reigns lined Dean up for the Spear again. This time, Rollins was up and he tripped Reigns. He delivered the falcon arrow, but Dean interrupted the pin. Dean was still hurt though, and struggling to his feet. He was in the middle of the ring, with Reigns and Rollins in opposite corners. Rollins ran forward, going for the Curb Stomp, but just as he got his foot on Dean, Reigns popped up and drilled Rollins with one of the biggest Spears ever! “Seth Rollins is done!” exclaimed Cole. Reigns covered him, but Dean was there to break things up again! Reigns looked for one more Spear but when he ran in, Ambrose got his knee up, destroying Reigns. The Big Dog crumpled to the mat and fell outside. “All three men are down!” shouted Cole. Dean got up first, just as Seth was pulling himself up. He went over and grabbed Seth, who slipped out and kicked Dean in the stomach. He went for the Curb Stomp, but Dean had it scouted, countering into a powerbomb for two. Dean looked to end things with Dirty Deeds, but Seth shoved him off to the ropes. When he came back, Seth leveled him. Dean fell to the ropes and rebounded out with a lariat. Seth was ready though, ducking it and catching Ambrose into a small package driver. Reigns got in the ring to break up the pin, but was a split second too late as the referee counted three. Seth Rollins defeated Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns to retain the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in 18:58!
Roman Reigns watched in disappointment as Seth Rollins scurried away from him to the corner. The referee handed him his WWE World Heavyweight Title. He clutched it to his chest and exited up the ramp. He swung the title around his head when he the top of the stage, before posing with it as pyro went off around the stadium. “Seth Rollins found a way to dig deep and pull something out that his Shield brothers had never seen before in order to win,” said Cole. Ambrose watched from his seat, while Reigns had his head down as Rollins celebrated the biggest win of his career. |
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