|
Post by DTP. on Aug 15, 2021 7:02:29 GMT -5
Sunday Night Heat - April 15, 2001 First Union Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Live on MTV - Live from WWF New YorkMatches taped on April 10, 2001
The opening video package brought us live to the heart of Times Square, where inside WWF New York saw a sea of fans in attendance, inside the entertainment and restaurant complex! Michael Cole and Tazz welcomed us to Sunday Night Heat, just two weeks away from WWF Backlash - and the two immediately started with the news breaking from SmackDown, that Stephanie McMahon would meet Trish Stratus - one-on-one! - TONIGHT: Chris Benoit vs Scotty 2 Hotty
- TONIGHT: K-Kwik vs D-Lo Brown
- TONIGHT: X-Factor will be live from WWF New York.
- TONIGHT: WWF Divas Ambassador Debra joins Michael Cole and Tazz in WWF New York.
Tazz began to talk about how Stephanie McMahon was abusing her ill-deserved power in taking advantage of a vulnerable Trish Stratus, while the boss Vince McMahon was away! Michael Cole argued the point and claimed 'the Billion Dollar Princess' was still a McMahon herself, when up waltzed Paul Heyman to loud "ECW" chants! In an unscheduled appearance, Paul greeted the gentlemen appropriately, prompting Cole to ask if the explanation he gave on SmackDown wasn't enough. Heyman contested it wasn't, but what it did do was give the world a glimpse of what 'the Man-Beast' Rhyno had to say! Paul argued it was his freedom as a broadcast journalist, and insulted Cole for his lack of professionalism to a fellow colleague. Tazz defended Heyman, when Cole accused Paul of being behind what Rhyno did to Hulk Hogan on RAW is WAR. Paul was furious as the fans in the background at the desk hurled insults his way, flabbergasted at the fact he came to WWF New York tonight for this shoddy treatment. Paul Heyman believed he was doing this out of the goodness in his heart, because he didn't want to be in New York City - nor did he need to be. He came to 'the Crossroads of the World" to defer any part of what 'the Man-Beast' had done. As proud as he was of a former ECW extremist - what the last ECW Champion did was reprehensible. All Paul tried to do on SmackDown, as much as he didn't like or respect Hulk Hogan - was offer people another side of who Rhyno was! Michael questioned any ulterior motives, implying he and Rhyno were in cohoots. Paul denied any affiliation with Rhyno, and that their relationship was strictly employer-to-employee. He had barely ever spoken to Rhyno and didn't know a damn thing about him. Tazz continued to defend the color commentator, but Cole accused Paul further of collusion from the old ECW crowd. The fans had turned on Heyman, prompting him to deny any further questions! Heyman was using his freedom to walk away, and good riddance! After seeing the fickle fans already turn their backs on ECW - the WWF New York crowd would see him in hell! - Jonathan Coachman was at the arena standing by with Chris Benoit, who smiled ahead of his match with Scotty 2 Hotty. The Coach asked 'the Rabid Wolverine' about the injury he gave the Undertaker in hindsight, who smirked and described the pain on 'the American Badass's face as cathartic. Benoit took great pride in knowing that he did what no other man alive could do - and make the entire world see the Undertaker broken. The damage he did to 'the Deadman' had humanized him, and he knew Undertaker would be back: but when he did come back, he would wind up right where he started. Coach further asked about the brawl Benoit had engaged in with Bradshaw. For the WWF European Champion, 'the Crippler' had no comments to make, outside of warning Bradshaw that the next time they met he could join his old Ministry buddy on the bench. - RAW is WAR, TOMORROW NIGHT: Chris Benoit, Edge and Christian vs WWF European Champion Bradshaw and Kaientai
- The Radicalz began redeeming themselves this past week, starting with a post-match beatdown of the Dudley Boyz and Rob Van Dam on RAW is WAR. While Eddie Guerrero and Perry Saturn were unsuccessful in taking the WWF Tag Team Championships home, they were rejoined by Dean Malenko - face protector and all. On SmackDown, in six-man tag team action, the Radicalz finally met RVD and the Dudleys - but in the heat of the chaos, it was 'Latino Heat' who avenged his WrestleMania loss to 'the Whole Dam Show': made possible with the diabolical use of Malenko's steel face protector!
The WWF Women's Champion had made highlights in the media this week, starting the week with her first title defence against Molly Holly on RAW is WAR. Chyna planned to be the fighting champion that Ivory wasn't, but the Playboy covergirl would soon be seen on the set of the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. 'The Ninth Wonder of the World' appeared glamorous and joyous with the famed talk show host, with a big smile and wearing a beautiful dress. Chyna's ascent into superstardom continued!
Backstage at the arena, 'the One' Billy Gunn clapped with applause at the monitor. He was the biggest fan of his girlfriend Chyna, even wearing 'the Ninth Wonder of the World's cropped shirt! But the mood would change once Crash and Molly Holly plodded up to him. Molly remained silent, as a moody Crash complained that Chyna got lucky on RAW is WAR. Believing Molly was destined to be WWF Women's Champion, Crash's anger only amused Billy, as he talked about how the sucker punch Billy handed him! Gunn wished the short guy would calm down, accusing him of having anger problems. Crash gritted his teeth comically, as Billy apologized for the right hand: but all due respect to his cousin Molly, the right woman won last week. Crash tried getting his hands on Billy, to be stopped by his cousin! Billy laughed and walked off, while Crash yelled after him: he'd show Billy "little guy" in the ring tonight!
- TONIGHT: Crash vs Billy Gunn
- In the arena, K-Kwik had the fans in attendance bopping along to "Get Rowdy!" Strutting and breakdancing into the ring, the rapper hyped up the people who responded emphatically, as K-Dawg cut straight to the chase. Calling out his rival D-Lo Brown, he talked about having enough of 'the Real Deal' ducking him: K-Kwik hoped D-Lo was ready for a whoopin' and a beatin' right now! D-Lo Brown answered the call, with a chain around his neck. With a briefcase in hand, D-Lo also came with a microphone. Brown insulted the people and warned K-Dawg: he should have never cheap shotted him a few weeks ago. D-Lo said he didn't need to be here, that he was too rich to be on Sunday Night Heat: but because it's K-Kwik, he'd kick his ass and school him tonight for free! D-Lo walked the rampway slowly, before turning his back to address the people on hand. Brown insulted them for being so dirt poor to live in Philadelphia - allowing K-Kwik to strike with a baseball slide from behind! 1) D-Lo Brown def. K-Kwik (4:13)With the transpiring of D-Lo Brown and Albert as a combination on SmackDown, K-Kwik had plenty of reason to beat D-Lo badly tonight. K-Dawg tried coming to the aid of Test following his loss to 'the Freight Train', to be left laying by a briefcase shot. K-Kwik dominated D-Lo on the floor after the baseball slide, striking with an axe kick and a flying spinning forearm. The rapper relented with ten punches, when Brown powerbombed him for a near fall! Brown choked K-Kwik on the ropes, using any shortcuts available. Bobbling his head pre-legdrop, D-Lo showboated allowing K-Kwik to fire back with a corkscrew wheel kick! A leg-split dropdown led to a dropkick, when a missile dropkick gave him a near fall. K-Kwik hit the Mic Check, covering D-Lo, who got his foot on the bottom rope! As K-Dawg disputed with the official, Brown struck with a low blow! The Sky High connected to give D-Lo the ill-fated victory.
D-Lo Brown rolled out of the ring a pleased man, having beaten K-Kwik albeit thanks to a low blow, out of sight from the referee. K-Dawg remained down and hurting, while 'the Real Deal' swaggered with his briefcase in hand. With his newfound alliance with Albert, D-Lo had to be enjoying his wealth!
- In the retail complex of WWF New York, X-Factor arrived at WWF New York pouting with all of the fans around them. Justin Credible snarled an obnoxious grimace at the people around him, telling Lance Storm that he forgot how disgusting the people in New York City were. Lance told Justin it was okay, that they'd be out of there as soon as possible. In waltzed the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac, who removed his sunglasses and looked the shopkeeper in the eyes. X-Pac commented how he could see Chris Jericho merchandise, the Rock's cardboard cutouts, Stone Cold Steve Austin T-shirts; hell, even Triple H action figures! What about them? Where was the X-Factor a place like WWF New York desperately needed? The shopkeeper candidly explained there was no X-Factor merch in store, making X-Pac slam his fist on the counter! Lance called WWF New York full of parasites living in sin - he was homesick for Canada. X-Pac led the way out, suggesting they get this over and done with as soon as possible - this place made him sick!
It was made official on SmackDown: at Backlash on April 29, in a sanctioned World Wrestling Federation match, Stephanie McMahon would meet her ex-best friend Trish Stratus, one-on-one. It came after a scuffle that would go down in infamy, seeing Stephanie and Trish go at it in a brawl on RAW is WAR, that would soon envelope Vince McMahon and Shane McMahon. The destruction of the McMahon Family and shedding of Trish's shirt would bring Commissioner William Regal to try and ban the WCW Owner from the building on SmackDown, though he would bypass security. The Chairman was absent on Thursday, as Stephanie and Trish exchanged insults in the ring, when after the challenge was made Shane tried to speak with 'the Billion Dollar Princess' - but she wanted no part of a re-alliance with her brother. Kurt Angle accused Stephanie of trying to sabotage his career along with hers, when in the process 'the Billion Dollar Princess' would cryptically tell her lover that 'the Megastar' could do what he wanted: but she would not be around!
- Michael Cole stood on the stage inside WWF New York, welcoming out some special guests - X-Factor! Unimpressed, the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac walked with Lance Storm and Justin Credible behind them. Met with loud boos and chants of "X-Pac sucks", Cole welcomed the trio to the entertainment complex, though a shaded X-Pac remained floored by the insulting people. Lance finally spoke up, demanding some decorum for the champ, and the leader of X-Factor. The New Yorkers only grew louder, as Lance would keep getting cut off by the people. Finally, Justin Credible's booming voice hushed everybody in attendance demanding the fat, ugly and pathetic lowlifes shut their mouths! Michael Cole finally began to interview the trio, bringing up their varied success since arriving on the scene. X-Pac told Cole that nobody ever believed in the three of them. They joined forces because they were three of the most underutilized, disrespected and underrated talents this business had to offer, and he could not understand it.
X-Pac said they were the X-Factor the World Wrestling Federation was not just looking for, but what the WWF desperately needed. They were tired of people like Chris Jericho, and Hollywood sellouts like The Rock; even Stone Cold Steve Austin hogged all the television time dedicated to true talents like themselves! As the people continued to chant "X-Pac sucks", the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion urged the fans to wake up and realize it! Cole brought up Y2J's bizarre team-ship with WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven, when Lance talked how they were over it. They got trifled with on SmackDown, and it was a fluke the overzealous morons got the win over world-class talents like himself and Justin. Justin Credible said that they were the real tag team to beat, because they always made an impact. Before they knew it, not only would X-Pac be wearing gold - so would they! X-Pac declared this interview over, hotheadedly telling his boys it was time to get out of this hellhole. In leaving, Credible gave a quick shoutout to New Jersey, infuriating New York City!
The WWF Divas Ambassador was seen smiling and waving at fans in arriving to WWF New York. Debra would join Michael Cole and Tazz later tonight live from the entertainment complex. A lot had to be on her husband Stone Cold Steve Austin's mind, as new WWF Champion - and tonight Tazz made a point to say that they would get the real scoop in an exclusive interview!
- In the dressing room backstage at the arena, Bull Buchanan sat on a folding chair when faced with a fierce Steven Richards looking him deep in the eyes. Bull barely blinked, as Steven commented that the Right to Censor's slump would end tonight. Wanting to be honest with Bull, he was always the one with tremendous upside. He'd always been a bit-player: a prison guard, a bounty hunter - none of them compared to what he was capable of. What he and the Goodfather got up to on RAW is WAR were juvenile to the RTC, arguing and causing problems for one another. Tonight, Steven believed Buchanan would show his potential, and redeem himself. Tonight, Steven said Bull was in charge of the RTC's destiny - and a win against Steve Blackman would be his breakout performance. Steven stressed he had to win tonight, for them. Bull breathed heavily, psyching himself up - one-on-one with 'the Lethal Weapon' up next!
While Stephanie McMahon wanted no association with her brother Shane McMahon, the WCW Owner had kept himself busy since WrestleMania. Apparently attending meetings with television executives regarding a new show for WCW, Shane O'Mac made time to confront his father Vince McMahon in the ring on RAW is WAR. It broke down to a McMahon Family brawl, crossing wires with Stephanie and Trish Stratus! The Chairman fiercely demanded Commissioner William Regal to begin making better decisions. Sharply, 'the Goodwill Ambassador' ordered Shane's ejection from RAW is WAR after he was seen conferring with WWF Superstars. On SmackDown, Regal had a security team in place to ban Shane from the arena, but a brawl between Chris Benoit and WWF European Champion Bradshaw allowed Shane to bypass security regardless! Once again Regal tracked Shane down with enforcement staff in place - and Shane finally left, mocking Regal and cryptically remarking that he would see him on a Monday night real soon.
- 2) Steve Blackman def. Bull Buchanan (w/Steven Richards) (2:52)The Right to Censor's slump began at WrestleMania with Ivory's WWF Women's Championship loss to Chyna, and continued this past week with the RTC all failing to capture the WWF Hardcore Championship from Kane. In-fighting and greed over winning the title got to the group, with Steven Richards suggesting training to be done with the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry. Bull was motivated to take charge tonight, struggling initially with 'the Lethal Weapon's striking abilities, a dropkick sending the big man to the floor for strategy with Richards. Buchanan caught Blackman on a suicide dive and sent him into the announce table, and back inside grounded the martial artist. The jumping clothesline from the top rope gave Bull a near fall, but a diving legdrop went amiss, when a pump kick got Blackman back into the fight! Steven tripped Blackman allowing Bull to hit a scissors kick for a two count, when a powerbomb went reversed into the guillotine choke - giving Blackman the win!
'The Lethal Weapon' was victorious against Bull Buchanan, continuing the Right to Censor's slump coming out of WrestleMania! The referee raised Steve Blackman's hand, as Steven Richards tugged at his own hair at ringside - the RTC in disrepair after a chaotic week for the group!
- The relationship between WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho grew more convoluted this past week, as the assist from Y2J's thought-to-be rival allowed him to beat WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac on RAW is WAR. On SmackDown, X-Factor went in with motives to get revenge, when in a miraculous show of partnership, Chris Jericho and Raven coexisted to beat Lance Storm and Justin Credible! Before the match, Raven and his girlfriend Tori conversed with cryptic comments about Jericho finally seeing the light - and where the WWF Intercontinental Champion was concerned: he had to be plotting something, but for now Y2J was clearly taking the bait!
The new reign of Stone Cold Steve Austin as WWF Champion was already causing strain on 'the Texas Rattlesnake'. With tensions already riding high between he and tag team partner Triple H on RAW is WAR, they were up against a similarly combustible team in Kurt Angle and the Big Show. All it took was one headbutt caused by Angle, sending 'the Game' into Stone Cold, and just like that 'the Giant' pinned the WWF Champion. Stone Cold got revenge after the bell with a steel chair shot to the 500-pounder, but it was Triple H who would have revenge on Austin's Stunner from the week before - a Pedigree leaving Stone Cold laying! On SmackDown, Big Show called out 'the Rattlesnake', who accepted it and engaged in a melee across the arena later that night. With the title on the line, the match saw interference from 'the Megastar' and 'the Game', but ultimately Austin would make his first defence of the title! After the match a relentless Olympic Gold Medalist would have the last laugh, furiously applying the Ankle Lock on the WWF Champion! The pressure had to be getting to Austin!- 3) Billy Gunn def. Crash (w/Molly Holly) (3:23)There was no boyfriend more supportive than 'the One' Billy Gunn. Pleased with Chyna's success as new WWF Women's Champion, he would equalize an interfering Crash with a right hand on RAW is WAR, which soon led to 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' defeating Crash's cousin Molly Holly. She stood nervously at ringside as Crash immediately jumped the gun and hammered Billy, who still wore a cropped T-shirt of Chyna's. Crash used quickness and a rear naked choke hold on Billy, who surprised with a big tilt-a-whirl slam! A catapult soon sent Crash into the corner post, but a drop toe hold allowed Crash to momentarily take control. An Oklahoma roll had Crash frustrated, and a tornado DDT would connect for another two count. Throwing a tantrum, Crash allowed Billy to big back body drop his way into dominance, and a dropkick would pave the way for the One and Only - landing Billy the three count!
Molly Holly slid into the ring to check on her fallen cousin Crash, who was devastated by another pitfall against 'the One' Billy Gunn. Everything was coming up for Billy and his girlfriend, the WWF Women's Champion Chyna. Billy Gunn racked up another win tonight on Sunday Night Heat, not twenty-four hours after 'the Ninth Wonder of the World's major appearance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno!
- Sat on the couches inside the entertainment complex sat Michael Cole and Tazz, as the co-hosts soon welcomed out the WWF Divas Ambassador Debra! She came walking out to the stage to a loud, positive response from the WWF New York crowd, soon taking a seat opposite Cole and Tazz. Cole thanked Debra for being here tonight, who was so thrilled to be here for this interview. Michael wanted to ask about how it felt to be the WWF Divas Ambassador, and what it was like to take a backseat to tend to the needs of her husband - the WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin. Debra spoke out about how much pride she took in her appointed job title, and how she was still in charge of the WWF Divas behind the scenes. But with WrestleMania coming up, and her husband in deep preparation for the fight of his life: she knew he needed some moral support. Debra spoke eagerly of there being a new WWF Women's Champion in Chyna, whose name garnered a big response. With that, Debra believed the possibilities were endless for the women's division going forward.
Tazz soon interrupted Debra, asking her about a potential change in Stone Cold Steve Austin's demeanor or character since becoming WWF Champion. Debra mentioned honestly that there had to have been: everybody saw the ginormous match her husband had with The Rock at WrestleMania. It was enough to send anybody on an out-of-body experience. Abruptly, Tazz would cut her off again: this time questioning if Steve was happy in his home life. With hesitance, Debra affirmed how thrilled Steve was, but Tazz for some reason pressed her on if the pressure was growing too much for old Stone Cold. Tazz brought up 'the Texas Rattlesnake' as a badass - surely it was hell to have to go home to him. Debra appeared nervous, and requested no further comments about their personal life. Tazz accepted this, only to grow disinterested and indifferent. As Cole asked about Debra's future plans for the WWF Divas, Tazz would interject again: not sure how a broad like her with puppies like her, wound up with a bald piece of garbage like Stone Cold Steve Austin!
The WWF Divas Ambassador voiced her offended nature, to which Tazz told Debra that she was less interesting than she looked. He claimed nobody cared about her job, which she'd been doing a terrible job of, and believed everybody wanted to know about their marriage! Was Stone Cold deep down an insecure individual? Debra once again avoided the question, telling Tazz matter-of-factly that she didn't need to tell him anything; she didn't owe any answers to what went on in their personal life. Steve was her husband, and if he knew Tazz was here insulting their privacy: he'd sure as heck come and open a can of whoopass on him! Tazz laughed, telling her he wasn't afraid. In his mind, being WWF Champion after neck surgery was making Austin a paranoid and weak man - he wasn't afraid of Austin, all he wanted was for Debra to lighten up and give the people what they wanted to see! Some fans cheered, but Debra instead slapped Tazz across the face and stormed off stage! Cole asked Tazz what had gotten into him, to which Tazz said Debra was hot as hell, but as dull as a rock.
Following the insulting interview remarks made by Tazz in a replay aired, during the break cameras were able to catch up with Debra as she left WWF New York in a hurry! The WWF Divas Ambassador was in tears and despondent, not about to stop and talk to any of the backstage staff on hand in the entertainment complex. What had gotten into Tazz?4) Chris Benoit def. Scotty 2 Hotty (3:25)'The Rabid Wolverine' was coming off a backstage fist fight with the WWF European Champion Bradshaw on SmackDown, instigated by an attempt by Chris Benoit, Edge and Christian to maim the Texan's ankle with a steel chair shot on RAW is WAR. Intended as another message to the Undertaker, whom he injured one week prior, now tomorrow night the three Canadians were to meet Bradshaw and Kaientai on RAW. Tonight against Scotty 2 Hotty, one-third of Too Cool came back from a pieface before the bell with a surprising flurry of flying forearms; a backbreaker reversed into a back suplex! Scotty was running hotter than ever with future hopes of becoming WWF Light Heavyweight Champion, when cut off by a running knee to the abdomen! Benoit dissected Scotty, targeting the shoulder. A cross-armbreaker was applied, but Scotty made the ropes! Catching Benoit with a diving DDT, Scotty flew to the floor with a sucide dive. In the ring, a missile dropkick went caught by Benoit - who locked in the Sharpshooter, resulting in instant submission victory!
'The Rabid Wolverine' classically refused to relinquish the Sharpshooter despite the win, much to the chagrin of the forceful referee! Scotty 2 Hotty continued to tap out, when Chris Benoit finally let him free. Yet he wasn't done yet, immediately kicking Scotty out to the ringside floor. Following and grabbing a steel chair from the timekeeper's table, Benoit wrapped the steel chair around Scotty's shoulder - the third member of Too Cool to be potentially injured!
Benoit stood Scotty up and prepared to sling him into the steel post - but out came a barraging Bradshaw! The WWF European Champion went at it with Benoit again, with a low kick allowing Benoit to get out of dodge! Benoit laughed as he backed up the rampway, Bradshaw frowning in Benoit's direction. The Texan was not going to allow Benoit to keep injuring WWF Superstars!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 16, 2021 3:33:18 GMT -5
WWF LIVE - April 11 - 12, 2001 Tallahassee, Fort Myers & Pensacola, Florida April 11, 2001 - Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center in Tallahassee, FL:- X-Pac (c) def. Scotty 2 Hotty to retain the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship.
- Jerry Lynn def. Crash
- Albert def. K-Kwik
- Kaientai def. The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan
- Raven (c) def. Chris Jericho & Chris Benoit in a Triple Threat match to retain the WWF Intercontinental Championship.
- Rob Van Dam def. Eddie Guerrero
- Kane (c) def. Mark Henry, Steve Blackman & Billy Gunn in a Fatal 4-Way match to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship.
- Bradshaw (c) def. William Regal by count-out to retain the WWF European Championship.
- The Dudley Boyz (c) def. Edge and Christian & Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko in a three-way tag team elimination match to retain the WWF Tag Team Championship.
- Rhyno def. Jeff Hardy
- WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H def. Kurt Angle and Big Show
April 12, 2001 - Teco Arena in Fort Myers, FL:- K-Kwik def. D-Lo Brown
- Victoria def. Didi Venturi
- Lita def. Molly Holly
- Jerry Lynn def. Crash
- WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho def. Lance Storm and Justin Credible
- Rhyno def. Jeff Hardy
- Kane (c) def. Test & Albert in a Fatal 4-Way match to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship.
- Triple H def. Kurt Angle
April 12, 2001 - Pensacola Bay Center in Pensacola, FL:- X-Pac (c) def. Scotty 2 Hotty to retain the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship.
- Spike Dudley def. Essa Rios
- Commissioner William Regal def. Steve Blackman
- Bradshaw (c) vs Chris Benoit ended in a double disualification; Bradshaw retained the WWF European Championship.
- WWF Tag Team Champions The Dudley Boyz and Rob Van Dam def. The Radicalz
- Kaientai def. Edge and Christian
- Billy Gunn, Val Venis and Al Snow def. The Right to Censor
- Stone Cold Steve Austin (c) def. Big Show in a Street Fight to retain the WWF Championship.
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 17, 2021 4:39:02 GMT -5
RAW is WAR - April 16, 2001 Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee Live on TNN
Since becoming WWF Champion at WrestleMania, Stone Cold Steve Austin had been contending with the likes of Triple H, Kurt Angle and Big Show as his major contenders. Following a tag team pinfall victory caused by Angle, Big Show called out 'the Texas Rattlesnake' for a title match on SmackDown this past week, which went answered in typical Stone Cold fashion. A fist fight led to Austin accepting the challenge, and the main event soon came around. Big Show gave Stone Cold a hard time, in a battle that saw the two battle into the crowd and around ringside. In the closing moments, Kurt Angle once again showed his face. 'The Megastar' felt wronged by Big Show claiming from his hard work, when Triple H hit the ring to barrage Angle. Stone Cold picked up the win against 'the Giant', when shockingly the Olympic Gold Medalist hit the ring with an Angle Slam! Angle locked Austin in the Ankle Lock - the pressure was mounting on the new WWF Champion!
The opening video package brought us to the pyro and ballyhoo of a smoky Thompson-Boling Arena! The fans were on their seat, a sea of signs raised by the people as Jim Ross and Paul Heyman welcomed us to RAW is WAR! We were in Knoxville, Tennessee with a huge night in store.
- TONIGHT: Kane (c) vs Rhyno for the WWF Hardcore Championship.
- TONIGHT: Rob Van Dam vs Eddie Guerrero
- TONIGHT: Chris Benoit, Edge and Christian vs WWF European Champion Bradshaw and Kaientai
- TONIGHT: X-Pac (c) vs Jeff Hardy for the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship.
- Kurt Angle made his way out to the stage to loud boos from the Knoxville crowd to kick off RAW. Raising his index fingers in the air as red, white and blue pyrotechnics exploded behind him - on SmackDown last Thursday, the Olympic Gold Medalist made it clear his sights were still set on the WWF Championship. Taking to the microphone in the ring, Kurt admitted feeling unfairly treated by everybody. He lost the WWF Championship on February 25 at No Way Out, and he was man enough to admit that. He lost his rematches, each and every one of them - that was on him. For a while he lost his edge, but if anybody should be challenging Stone Cold Steve Austin for the WWF Championship - it should be him! 'The Megastar' reminded the crowd that he beat Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania, and he should be the next number one contender. If Big Show could get a title shot over him, which he blew, then so could 'the Olympic Hero'. Angle added the inadequacy he had felt all weekend long, admitting that Stephanie McMahon wouldn't return his calls - and they were lovers! Despite that, he knew that 'the Billion Dollar Princess' would come to her senses, as soon as he got his WWF Championship opportunity.
The Olympic Gold Medalist was not the only one pining for a WWF Championship shot, as Kurt Angle would go interrupted by the very man that attacked him on SmackDown - Triple H! 'The Game' wore denim and leather, as he walked out to ridicule Kurt Angle from the stage about all the crying and complaining. He got it, everybody got it: he lost the WWF Championship, he lost his little buddies from the Coalition, and now he's losing the love of his life. He knew what it felt like, but all he could do was suck it up, and get over it! Triple H reminded Kurt of the perils he and Stephanie McMahon had put him through, and how in his mind he kept fighting and striving to be that damn good. 'The Game' argued that if anybody was worthy of a shot at Stone Cold Steve Austin's WWF Championship - it should be him! 'The Megastar' was livid to hear Triple H, reminding 'the Game' of his storied "redemption", and how he got it and blew it as well, the night after WrestleMania! Kurt believed Triple H had his turn - now it was his time. Smirking, Triple H told Kurt that he wasn't completely wrong, but there was somebody present that cost him his shot, and that man was the red, white and blue jackass standing in front of him!
'The Game' questioned if Kurt Angle thought he was better than him, believing he could prove it. He made no mistake about it, that 'the Megastar' had beaten him before; he even beat him inside Hell in a Cell. But despite getting over it, he still held Kurt personally responsible for destroying his livelihood! Kurt Angle reiterated that he was better than 'the Game'. In the Olympian's mind, Triple H was a flash in the pan, and he wasn't afraid to prove that much tonight! Mimicking 'the Cerebral Assassin's signature catchphrase: because he was that damn good, Kurt Angle was willing to take him up on his invitation. Tonight, when he beat Triple H in that ring: that would make him the new number one contender. From the rampway, 'the Game' was intrigued, as was the rest of the Tennessee crowd. Responding, Triple H declared that when he left Kurt Angle's patriotic ass laying in the middle of that ring tonight - he would be the one to face Stone Cold for the WWF Championship. He told Kurt that he was on, and that tonight: he would be the man going to Backlash! Angle and 'the Game' trash talked from afar, with the main event apparently confirmed. Who would be the number one contender?
- TONIGHT: Kurt Angle vs Triple H in a number one contender's match.
Feeling doubtful after losing to Funaki of all people on SmackDown, Edge confessed to Christian how he was feeling nervous about tonight. Losing to Kaientai was absurd, it was ridiculous - it was the water going backwards! They were WWF Tag Team Champions a couple weeks ago - now they had beef with the two Japanese nincompoops? But then he went to the bathroom, dropped a couple kids off at the pool, and now he's ready. Christian laughed, reminding him of what they did to Kaientai and Bradshaw last week on RAW - tonight would be a piece of cake. They performed their secret handshake, when up walked a stern Chris Benoit. With a look of disbelief, 'the Rabid Wolverine' asserted no fun and games tonight: no losing out there. Tonight, they would win. Christian chuckled, proposing the Coalition was back together. He and Edge put their hands in, but Benoit just glared them out and walked away! Six-man tag team action was up next.
After the infiltration of the building on SmackDown by WCW Owner Shane McMahon, Commissioner William Regal rudely interrupted a security booth backstage at the Thompson-Boling Arena. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' observed the two security guards drink coffee and eat donuts, asking them if they had any shame! They were supposed to be enforcing the World Wrestling Federation's rules and guidelines - not scoffing their faces and acting like buffoons! The guards tried defending themselves, when Regal talked about the horrific job the security in Philadelphhia did on SmackDown when Shane McMahon was able to enter the arena - but it could not happen again. Regal stressed that Vince McMahon would be here, and if he were to see or hear Shane's meek little voice - the Chairman would have it seen to that they would be out of a bloody job! The security guards understood, as Regal demanded they get off their arses.
- The former WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian made their way out to the ring, a look of determination in mind after the upset loss to Funaki on SmackDown by Edge. Next came Chris Benoit, as stone-faced as ever. 'The Rabid Wolverine' got into a backstage brawl on SmackDown, and then when trying to injure Scotty 2 Hotty last night on Sunday Night Heat - it was Bradshaw who ran him off. Kaientai soon emerged on the rampway to a positive response, waving their Japanese flags. Taka Michinoku and Funaki laughed over the microphones about beating Edge and Christian, and tonight would be no different. And they brought their old Coalition chum Chris Benoit - what a feeble affair this would be! Funaki echoed "INDEED", as Taka announced their plans to triumph again tonight, because they had an "EVIL" new friend - welcoming out the WWF European Champion Bradshaw! The trio headed for the ring, ready for war! 1) Chris Benoit, Edge and Christian def. WWF European Champion Bradshaw and Kaientai (3:47)Edge and Christian could not stand another loss to Kaientai, while Chris Benoit was determined to put the hurt on WWF European Champion Bradshaw. A six-man brawl kicked things off, narrowing down to 'the Rabid Wolverine' and Bradshaw. The Texan gained the upper hand, catching Benoit with a fallaway slam! The tag made to Funaki, he and Taka Michinoku executed a wristlock into an axe handle. Edge's taunting allowed Benoit to pull the hair of Funaki! With a snap suplex, the teamwork of the former Coalition members took place, with Edge and Christian hanging Funaki up to dry with a suplex draping the top rope! Christian's goading of Bradshaw allowed for Edge to sneak in illegally, when a sleeper hold grounded Funaki. A distraction from Taka allowed Funaki to break free with a low blow! The tag was made to Bradshaw, who ran roughshod. Edge saved Christian from a Powerbomb, but a double clothesline connected! Taka and Benoit made the tag, as Bradshaw concentrated on Edge and Christian on the floor. Back inside, Taka missed a springboard dropkick - and the Crossface would make Taka tap out!
Chris Benoit refused to let go of the Crossface after the match, with Taka Michinoku screaming and tapping profusely! The WWF European Champion Bradshaw came to his rescue, hammering 'the Rabid Wolverine', when Edge took him down with the spear. He and brother Christian grabbed steel chairs from ringside, another Conchairto in place for the Texan - when the lights went out! Much like last week, the sounds of Limp Bizkit's "Rollin'" came over the Thompson-Boling Arena: but there was no sign of the Undertaker! Benoit, Edge and Christian froze on the spot, when Kaientai came to Bradshaw's help - clearing the ring of the brothers. Benoit walked away on his own terms, acknowledging of the fact 'the Deadman' was back to his infamous old mind games.
- Commissioner William Regal arrived at his office, where inside Trish Stratus was seen sat on the edge of his desk. Wearing a short skirt, 'the Goodwill Ambassador' ordered some decency as he shielded his eyes respectfully. Trish greeted him kindly, asking him if he was ready to see the Chairman, and her lover Vince McMahon tonight. Regal was irked by her flirtation, still trying to wrap his head around all this. Trish assured Regal again that she was confident about her match with Stephanie McMahon. At Backlash, she would humiliate that sad little girl just like Stephanie humiliated her last week. Trish asked if William remembered her blouse being torn from her back, and her embarrassment. William knew too well, clearly flustered. Trish decided to lean over to lift Regal's spirits - her cleavage close to him. She reminded him this wasn't her first match, she'd been through fights before which was more than what she could say about Stephanie. Regal warned the WWF Diva that Vince would be here soon, and he didn't want any trouble. Trish giggled - she loved winding the Commissioner up.
Chris Jericho prepared for his match with Mark Henry tonight in the locker room, when up walked Jonathan Coachman. The Coach wanted to get Y2J's opinion on the actions of his thought-to-be rival Raven in recent weeks. Calling him "Melonball", Jericho said that his mind wasn't on Raven. He thought it was cute that the WWF Intercontinental Champion did, having his back. Joking that he was his "buddy, old pal", Y2J asserted that Raven still had something he wanted - and that's his title back. Tonight, he planned to show that much against the 400-pound Mark Henry in the ring. Coach then asked Y2J if he had heard the change of plans. Jericho raised an eyebrow, as he commented that Raven had gone to Commissioner William Regal - tonight's match was now Raven and Chris Jericho against the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan! Y2J's face dropped, having to team with his rival again. He would sweep the floor with the Right to Censor - but with Raven, he was going to get the bottom of this.
- TONIGHT: WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho vs The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan.
- 2) Test def. D-Lo Brown (w/Albert) (2:56)With this newfound alliance between D-Lo Brown and Albert, Test had unfinished business with the man that tried to bribe him eight days ago on Sunday Night Heat. 'The Real Deal' was accompanied by 'the Freight Train', who beat Test on SmackDown with his help. Test wasted no time hitting the ring for a fist fight with D-Lo, scoring with a gutwrench powerbomb for a near fall! The stallion left the ring immediately to confront his former T&A tag team partner at ringside, allowing Brown to connect with a baseball slide. D-Lo pummelled Test back inside, as a diving legdrop from the second rope gave D-Lo a near fall. Kicking him from the ring, Albert abruptly struck Test with a shoulder block at ringside, before hoisting him spine-first into the ring post! D-Lo applied a camel clutch inside the ring, but Test dropped backwards crushing D-Lo! Fighting back with a sidewalk slam, Test went for the diving elbow drop, when Albert distracted Test. K-Kwik rushed Albert on the floor, as Test gave D-Lo a front suplex off the top rope and connected with the diving elbow droop for the win.
Test had picked up the victory against D-Lo Brown, but Albert would jump him from behind! 'The Freight Train' took the gold chain from around his neck and prepared to knock the stallion out with it, but Albert missed! Ducking the shot from the gold chain, Test charged with the Big Boot knocking Albert down. D-Lo and Albert bailed from the ring, as Test and K-Kwik challenged them to come fight inside the ring.
- Jeff Hardy jumped on the spot, psyching himself up ahead of his WWF Light Heavyweight Championship match with X-Pac, when Lita approached him. She provided an update on her boyfriend and Jeff's brother, Matt Hardy - saying how he was doing better since suffering internal bleeding. Jeff was relieved, and was excited to have Matt back with them. But in the mean time, they'd gotten even with Rhyno, the man that Gored Matt to the sidelines. Tonight was Team Xtreme's chance to bring gold to the team, and that started by becoming a two-time WWF Light Heavyweight Champion!
- Arriving at the arena in Knoxville, Vince McMahon frowned as he walked the hall before coming across the same two security guards that Commissioner William Regal met with earlier. Appearing more focused, the Chairman passed them before stopping to talk. Vince reasserted that there was to be no sign or sighting of WCW Owner Shane McMahon tonight, and wanted to make it clear that he was in no mood for another infiltration. The security guards agreed with the commands, before Vince chose to ask about Stephanie McMahon: had she arrived yet? The guards said that she had not, to which Vince muttered "good". The fierce WWF Owner continued to walk. 3) X-Pac (w/X-Factor) (c) def. Jeff Hardy (w/Lita) to retain the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship (4:15)X-Pac defeated Jeff Hardy to win the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion on March 1. This was Jeff's chance to recapture the title he lost thanks to X-Factor. Days after Jeff and Lita gained a measure of retribution on Rhyno for injuring Matt Hardy, X-Factor were looking to rebound from a loss to the unlikely duo of Raven and Chris Jericho. The challenger struck fast from the getgo, armdrags and a flying clothesline catching the champ off guard. The rainbow haired member of Team Xtreme bested X-Pac in their next exchange off a dropkick, when a distraction from Justin Credible allowed X-Pac to hit a roundhouse kick! Choking Jeff on the ropes, Lance Storm joined in with a right hand through the ropes, as an X-Pac legdrop landed a near fall. X-Pac struggled to apply the crossface chickenwing, when Jeff broke loose with a spinout enzuigiri! X-Pac tried coming back to be met with the Twist of Fate, but Storm and Credible distracted the referee from the floor. Lita climbed to the top rope and met them with a diving crossbody to X-Factor at ringside, but with the referee distracted out ran Rhyno - with the Gore for Jeff Hardy! 'The Man-Beast' laid X-Pac on top, to retain the title!
X-Factor had gotten away with it, as X-Pac had retained the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship. 'The Man-Beast' had made it so, retribution for the chair shots received by Jeff Hardy on SmackDown! Rhyno left the scene immediately through the crowd, bringing Lita to chase to the barricade. As Lita slid into the ring to check on her boyfriend's brother Jeff Hardy, X-Factor left proud - Lance Storm and Justin Credible helping X-Pac raise his title high.
- Terri was having her make-up done backstage, 'the She-Devil' advising Janet the make-up lady not to blush her face too harshly as her boyfriend Perry Saturn hated it. Janet rolled her eyes and continued blushing her up, when Spike Dudley walked up. Kindly, 'the Runt of the Dudley Litter' told her to be scared, he simply came to apologize. Spike didn't mean to spy on her in the shower, and noted he wasn't like that. Terri told him that's how it looked to Perry, and he was going to kick his ass if he kept talking. Spike understood, but then expressed his apology with a wrapped basket of muffins - made with an old Dudley Clan recipe. Sitting it on a nearby table, he left. Terri observed them, a slight smile appearing on her face.
- Vince McMahon arrived in his office to see Trish Stratus rush to her feet from the couch. Running up and squeezing the Chairman, the WWF Diva was so thrilled to see her lover in person. Vince was not impressed and didn't hug back, bringing Trish to ask him what was wrong. Vince told her honestly, booming that he didn't have a clue what she was thinking - but she's been a bad girl - a very bad girl! The boss talked about the match at Backlash made in his absence - with his daughter Stephanie McMahon; the same troubled daughter of his that exposed her to the world last week! Trish bowed her head, claiming to be really sorry, and for being really bad. She gently pushed Vince onto the couch and got down on her knees, asking what she could do to make up for her. He simply told her that he didn't want to see his favorite girl get hurt at Backlash - that's all. Trish knew Vince's fears, but assured him she planned to teach his ungrateful daughter a lesson. She also knew how stressed he'd been, but she'd be fine. Asking again if she could do anything for him, Vince chuckled - he had a few ideas. Trish stroked his leg, on her knees at the couch - hopeful of turning the WWF Owner's mood around.
In the bathroom, the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven washed his hair in a sink, when looking up to see Chris Jericho enter in the mirror reflection. Laughing to himself, the champ turned to see Y2J come face to face with him. Jericho found it funny the first few times, and they may have gotten the win against X-Factor last week, but he wanted to know what Raven was up to. Continuing to chuckle to himself, Raven wished Jericho would lighten up. He talked to Commissioner William Regal, and he thought they made a great team. They were a great team! They showed it on SmackDown. Jericho seemed unsure of Raven's motives, and accepted they would team up tonight - but warned Raven - he had to be waiting to jump him from behind. Y2J told Raven he had eyes in the back of his head, and warned him not to screw it up. Raven smiled, asking what harm there was in just trying to be a good guy for a change? He told Jericho he changed at WrestleMania, and knew Y2J was different too. Suggesting Jericho look forward to it, Raven said they were about to fight the good fight - and beat the Right to Censor! Excitedly leaving Jericho contemplative, Y2J stared at himself in the mirror.
- In an unscheduled turn of events, the heartbeats were heard and smoke rose. Culminating in a white blast of smoke, Tazz came stomping out to the ring to boos from the capacity crowd on hand. The co-host of Sunday Night Heat wore black and orange in form of a jumpsuit, as he climbed into the ring and took a microphone. 'The Human Suplex Machine' chuckled, talking in all seriousness about compelling television. That's what RAW is WAR was all about, and that's all we had seen. In actuality, that's all he wanted to do last night, when he upset the WWF Divas Ambassador Debra. Throwing to a replay of Tazz verbally insulting and objectifying Debra in an exclusive interview from WWF New York on Sunday Night Heat, cameras caught up to see her leave the building on the brink of tears. Back live, it made Tazz smile - but reasoned that all he wanted to do was make the mood of the room change. Nobody wanted to hear about the business of the WWF Divas - they wanted hot button topics. Pointing to Paul Heyman on commentary, he was inspired when Heyman stood up to Hulk Hogan last week on RAW is WAR, then presented Rhyno's first in-ring interview on SmackDown.
Tazz confessed to pushing the needle too far deep last night on Sunday Night Heat, and wished to issue an apology to Debra tonight in this ring. Instead, the glass shattered and out stormed the WWF Divas Ambassador's husband Stone Cold Steve Austin! The WWF Champion saluted the Knoxville crowd, before turning to stare down 'the Human Suplex Machine'. Tazz tried to rationalize to Steve what he did, but in all honesty Steve was the real person he wanted to talk to! Tazz wasn't sure if Austin had heard the interview, but he was asking all about 'the Texas Rattlesnake', and wanted to know how he was doing as WWF Champion coming out of WrestleMania. Stone Cold instead snatched the microphone, asking him if he was a big man. He didn't look big, bringing him to ask if he was a tough guy. Tazz didn't even blink, telling Stone Cold he'd been around a time or two. 'The Rattlesnake' said the little voice in his head was asking him to whoop his sorry ass for making his wife cry, but he was willing to let Tazz ask his stupid questions. Stone Cold he knew where Tazz was coming from, maybe his wife was sensitive. He went to let a smiling Tazz ask his first question, when he snatched the microphone.
Something Stone Cold had to do, was ask the fans to see who wanted to see Tazz interview the WWF Champion in this ring. The fans booed, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' voicing that the people had spoken. Steve Austin then asked Knoxville who wanted to see Tazz get his ass kicked tonight. They responded emphatically with a "Hell Yeah!", when Austin nodded. Tazz decided to break from being close to Stone Cold, wanting to cut the charade and get down to brass tax. As WWF Champion, Tazz had to wonder the toll it was taking on Stone Cold. With his surgically repaired neck, with the weight of being WWF Champion and flagbearer of sports entertainment on his back - Tazz questioned if Stone Cold was up for the task. He had Kurt Angle or Triple H to fight at Backlash, and after the struggle put up against Big Show on SmackDown, he had to be feeling something. He challenged Steve, telling him he didn't look like the same Stone Cold: this was a new 'Rattlesnake'. Tazz ran his mouth about Austin not looking big or tough either, bringing Austin to stomp a mudhole in him! Dropping Tazz with the Stunner, Austin left the ring content - with the number one contender's match still to come!
- Stephanie McMahon had now arrived at the Thompson-Boling Arena, when confronted by the two members of security that conferred with both Commissioner William Regal and Vince McMahon. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' was distressed to hear them forbid her appearing tonight under Vince's orders. Clearly misinformed by the Chairman, up walked Kurt Angle who diminished the security guards' roles! Kurt claimed he had to speak with her, and they allowed it. 'The Megastar' fretted that he needed to know where she'd been all week. Stephanie folded her arms in detest, explaining that she had a match with Trish Stratus at Backlash to get ready for - she was training.
Angle understood, but wondered why she hadn't been returning his calls or responded to his messages. As her boyfriend, the Olympic Gold Medalist had been worried, but Stephanie finally explained. She loved Kurt, but he hurt her. He treated her like a child, and she couldn't do this right now. She needed to focus on Backlash, because there was no chance in hell she was losing to Trish Stratus. Angle expressed his focusing on becoming number one contender against Triple H tonight, prompting Steph good luck. Walking past him, Kurt asked if they were okay - but Steph paused. She said she needed time to think...about them. Leaving Kurt behind, the Olympian nodded in sorrow.
A replay aired from before the commercial break, of Kurt Angle and Stephanie McMahon's conversation that appeared to signal a break in their relationship. Back live, Triple H navigated the halls ahead of the main event number one contender's match tonight. 'The Game' suddenly bumped into the WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin! With the winner of tonight's match meeting 'the Texas Rattlesnake' at Backlash, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' had to be keen on watching Triple H's match with Kurt Angle tonight. Without a word spoken, Triple H left after staring Austin down. Stone Cold watched him leave, before cracking open a Steveweiser and drinking it - eyes still fixated on 'the Game'.
- The sirens of the Right to Censor had the people in Knoxville booing loudly to drown the theme song, as Steven Richards led the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry down to the ring. Originally intended to be Chris Jericho opposite 'the Secret Weapon' tonight, the match had been changed at Raven's request by Commissioner William Regal - now Y2J and the WWF Intercontinental Champion would team up to take on the Goodfather and Buchanan! The trio stood in a row in the ring, as Steven marched in front of them. With a microphone in hand, Steven voiced his disgust at the idea of glorifying the violence of ruffians like Raven. Steven hated the idea of turning villains like him into heroes, and couldn't understand why they weren't on the RTC's side, as Knoxville rained down in boos! Finally, Chris Jericho's countdown began - but Y2J wasted no time in immediately hitting the ring!4) WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho (w/Tori) def. The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan (w/Steven Richards and Mark Henry) (4:23)Chris Jericho expected singles action with Mark Henry tonight, but Raven curiously had the match changed to a tag match with the Right to Censor. Y2J was not happy, but hit the ring to combat the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan, riding solo! Jericho put up a fight, but the numbers advantage favored the RTC. They double teamed Jericho when finally Raven wandered out with Tori, alongside a shopping cart of weapons. Mark Henry stood in his way on the ramp, as Jericho surprised Bull with a back elbow off the second rope! Running into a big boot from Bull, Raven suddenly throttled Mark with a kendo stick, then hit the ring for a four man brawl! Raven was suddenly derailed by a corner splash courtesy of Goodfather after tagging in to Jericho's chagrin. The RTC cornered the WWF Intercontinental Champion, while Tori was warded off by the creepy Steven Richards at ringside. Raven sidestepped a corner clothesline from Buchanan and hit a bulldog, allowing the tag to Y2J! Running hot with a springboard dropkick sending Henry off the apron, Raven clotheslined Bull over the top rope as Y2J hit the bulldog and the Lionsault on Goodfather for the three count!
Yet again this unlikely combination had defeated a tag team, but the distraction from Steven Richards gave Mark Henry chance to stampede the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven with a clothesline on the floor! Chris Jericho was dropped with a death valley driver from a seething Goodfather, as Steven demanded revenge for another loss! The Right to Censor hoped to redeem themselves, as Goodfather and Bull Buchanan held Y2J up for Steven - when Tori handed Raven a kendo stick! Passing it to Jericho inside, he hit the ring with a stop sign, immediately wielding it off of Bull's head!
Raven with the sign and Jericho with the kendo stick, took turns relenting on a dazed Mark Henry - who finally collapsed to the canvas! Steven stood furiously devastated on the floor, as Y2J and Raven shared the same ring, back to back! After fending off the RTC together, they turned to face off with one another. Suddenly, Raven smiled and raised Y2J's hand in victory! Jericho was confused, as their relationship had taken another step in the right direction tonight.
- Backstage, the WWF Hardcore Champion Kane marched the halls. Awaiting match with former WWF Hardcore Champion Rhyno, 'the Big Red Machine' was up against his biggest challenge since becoming champion at WrestleMania - when off of a nearby vending machine soared Essa Rios! Kane caught the luchador in mid-air, immediately duking it out with throat thrusts! Sending Essa face first into a stack of pipes lined up against a wall, Kane dumped Essa over a technician's table in the backstage area, before continuing to head for the arena. The 24/7 rule rolled on, as did Kane - as he prepared for war!
Terri fixed her make-up in the Radicalz's dressing room, complaining to Dean Malenko about Spike Dudley's gift of apology. Malenko stared at his reflection in a hand-mirror, grossed out by the look of the steel-coated face protector on his face. In walked Perry Saturn in his pink, fuzzy hat. Immediately acknowledging the basket of muffins sat on the table, Perry questioned who gave his girlfriend the gift! Terri's face instantly turned, as she made up a story about what Spike Dudley had done to her - cornering her in the make-up department and barraging her in compliments and gifts. Terri lied through her teeth as she told Perry how Spike tried to even kiss her, causing Saturn's eyes to widen. Firmly handing her his hat, Saturn looked ready to burst in rage as he told Terri he and Dean had to deal with the little runt. He grabbed Dean by the sleeve of his shirt and they left, leaving Terri smiling sneakily. She loved the drama.
- 5) Kane (c) def. Rhyno to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship (3:57)Kane had been unstoppable since winning the WWF Hardcore Championship, but tonight faced his biggest test as champ, against one of the men he beat at WrestleMania - Rhyno. Earlier tonight he got even with Jeff Hardy, costing him his WWF Light Heavyweight Championship match. Now, Rhyno jumped Kane on the stage during his entrance! Using a steel bar from the stage structure, Kane was sent rolling down the rampway! At ringside, Rhyno throttled Kane with a cookie sheet, when Kane fired back with a big boot! The two brawled into the crowd, where Kane and Rhyno soon disappeared to the backstage area! Fighting in the halls of the arena, Rhyno dropped Kane with a neckbreaker on concrete floor for a near fall. Stalking for the Gore, Kane moved sending 'the Man-Beast' into a row of chairs! Kane attempted the Chokeslam, but Rhyno used a fire extinguisher to stop him! Knocking 'the Big Red Machine' out, suddenly from out of a door came Jeff Hardy with a steel chair to the skull! Lita watched as Jeff nailed Rhyno twice more before escaping. Kane then grabbed Rhyno and dropped him with the Chokeslam through a table, to retain the title!
Payback for Rhyno delivering the Gore that cost Jeff Hardy the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship earlier tonight, a taped-ribs Jeff Hardy watched with Lita from a distance backstage, as Kane stood tall as the WWF Hardcore Champion! 'The Man-Beast' had a taste of his own medicine after going on a path of destruction over the past few weeks, but following what Jeff did - you had to imagine 'the Man-Beast' was far from finished. Kane scared off Jeff and Lita of Team Xtreme, annihilating in another successful title defence.
Paul Heyman professed the ill-morality of Jeff Hardy and Lita for getting in his way. Jim Ross sat next to him at the announce table, wondering what happened to there being no partnership between Paul and Rhyno! Heyman again claimed innocence, simply citing that Team Xtreme would have hell to pay for this. J.R. didn't buy it for a second but digressed, providing a health update on Hulk Hogan - who was Gored by 'the Man-Beast' last week. The Hulkster was at home recuperating in Venice Beach, California. With three broken ribs, 'the Real American' would be back, assuredly to avenge what happened. Heyman groaned.
- The WWF Tag Team Champions The Dudley Boyz walked and talked, heading for the locker room. D-Von and Bubba Ray spoke about keeping an eye on the Radicalz, with Rob Van Dam set to take on Eddie Guerrero tonight. D-Von said it would be a cold day in hell before 'Latino Heat' could cheat to win with the Dudleys on their side. They entered the locker room, when from behind came Eddie Guerrero and the face protector-clad Dean Malenko! 'Latino Heat' sealed the door shut and locked them inside with a key in hand, prompting the Dudleys to come banging back on the door! As the Dudleys were locked inside their screams and bangs could be heard, with no Spike Dudley nor Rob Van Dam to help out! Eddie laughed, back to the wood, telling D-Von and Bubba Ray to wish RVD good luck tonight - he'd sure as hell need it! The mischievous Eddie and Dean bailed for the ring - as the Dudleys remained locked in the room! 6) Eddie Guerrero (w/Dean Malenko) def. Rob Van Dam (4:30)'Latino Heat' stole a victory to avenge his WrestleMania loss on SmackDown last week, but it came at the expense of using Dean Malenko's steel face protector as a weapon. Rob Van Dam was all alone tonight, with the Dudley Boyz locked inside a room backstage by the Radicalz! There was no sign of Perry Saturn or Terri, as the two immediately went toe-to-toe in the ring. Van Dam caught Eddie in a backslide, following with a wheel kick to gain control. Dean Malenko tried distracting, when RVD landed a somersault senton plancha to the floor to take him out! Van Dam outwitted 'Latino Heat' with a sunset flip out of the corner, when a roundhouse kick gave way for a cartwheel into a standing moonsault! The Rolling Thunder was blocked by Eddie's knees, bringing the world-travelled Guerrero to work over the spine of Van Dam. RVD was folded like a pretzel in the Mexican surfboard stretch, but soon warned by the official for pulling the hair.
RVD mounted a comeback from a step-over wheel kick, and a back handspring into a monkey flip out of the corner sent Guerrero flying! RVD went to the top for the Five-Star Frog Splash, when the TitanTron feed cut, to reveal Perry Saturn had busted Spike Dudley wide open in the Dudley Boyz's dressing room! Destroyed muffins laid all around, as Saturn relented with the Rings of Saturn applied. Terri watched with a smile on her face. In the ring, Rob Van Dam was distracted! The Dudley Boyz were out of position to help too, and Eddie would crotch RVD on the top rope. The brainbuster from the top rope went executed, giving 'Latino Heat' the win!
It was a team effort by the Radicalz designed to both screw Rob Van Dam, incapacitate the Dudley Boyz, and gain revenge on Spike Dudley! Eddie Guerrero was joined by Dean Malenko in the ring, where the two continued putting the boots to a defenceless RVD. 'The Whole Dam Show' was left laying, as Malenko held him in position. 'Latino Heat' climbed to the top rope and executed the Frog Splash, a receipt sent to RVD!
Backstage, Spike Dudley was still bloodied on the floor of the dressing room. Perry Saturn and Terri had vanished, as officials now checked on his condition. Free from the room Eddie Guerrero and Dean Malenko had locked them in before the break, the Dudley Boyz appeared in a foul mood to check on Spike. Furiously, Bubba Ray Dudley exclaimed that this meant war with the Radicalz! D-Von declared nobody assaulted their brother Spike and got away with it!
- Outside the arena, a familiar white limousine pulled up to the Thompson-Boling Arena. Marked with the licence plate reading "WCW1", the limo rode up to the toll booth where a security guard inspected the vehicle and request the passenger roll down the window. It was Shane McMahon, who was told under no circumstance that he could enter the building tonight. He was told it was from orders by Commissioner William Regal and Vince McMahon, though the WCW Owner simply smiled and handed the guard a stack of papers. Briefly observing the paperwork, the security guard returned to his booth - raising the gate for Shane McMahon! The limousine rolled in - but how did Shane O'Mac get away with this?
A replay from before the break aired, revealing Shane McMahon's limousine being allowed access to the building, all from what appeared to be paperwork handed from the WCW Owner. Back live, Commissioner William Regal's phone call went interrupted by Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus storming his office! The Chairman could not believe the incompetence of Knoxville's security officers. How Shane McMahon was given access despite what was demanded of them was beyond him. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' hoped to calm the WWF Owner's rage, assuring him he would get to the bottom of this and make sure Shane was ejected immediately. Vince growled threatening that he better - his ass was on the line too! Regal scampered to the scene of the crime, while Trish tried to calm down her lover.
The Thompson-Boling Arena lit up in cheers. Inside the arena, Shane McMahon's voice could be heard! The WCW Owner made his way through the crowd, raising the rolled-up papers that had apparently granted him access to the building tonight! The WCW Owner's infiltration was successful, as he riled up the Knoxville crowd to ask them who was enjoying RAW is WAR tonight! They responded positively, Shane hopping the barricade and making his way into the ring. With a live microphone, Shane O'Mac explained how he knew a lot of people didn't want him around. A lot of people wanted to get rid of him, and a lot of people had been asking what Shane McMahon was doing in a World Wrestling Federation ring. Shane argued that it was right where he belonged. Much like his sister Stephanie had said last week - no matter what happened, Shane was still a McMahon! He may be the proud new owner of WCW - but he wanted to keep its name alive and implored the fans to join WCW on its triumphant return. Surveying who else missed WCW, the fans roared. 'The Goodwill Ambassador's voice bellowed over his microphone, demanding to know the meaning of this!
William Regal had three security guards accompanying him, telling Shane McMahon that he was a cheeky little toe-rag. From the bottom of the rampway, the Englishman's face was red with frustration, demanding the guards have Shane O'Mac removed from the ring! Security took a few steps, but Shane folded his arms in protest. Shane knew exactly what he was trying to do - sucking up to his father, Shane made fun of the WWF Commissioner for trying to protect his job - unfortunately, leaving the ring on his terms was something he couldn't do. Pulling the roll of papers from his back pocket, Shane explained this was his World Wrestling Federation talent agreement - and it was active and in effect! Shane said he could throw a party in this ring with everybody in Knoxville, and Regal couldn't do anything about it! A member of security came to the ring apron to inspect the documents, before dropping down and returning to his crew - to wave them off! Regal cursed the security staff as they departed, gritting his teeth in rage! Shane smiled at the Englishman's humiliation - delivering a message to his loving, nurturing father: "checkmate, b*tch!"
- Kurt Angle was squatting in the backstage corridor, when approached by Michael Cole. Michael wanted to ask 'the Megastar' about the conversation had with Stephanie McMahon, promptly annoying the former WWF Champion. Last time he checked, it was personal business - and he was moments away from a WWF Championship opportunity of a lifetime, when he beat Triple H. Angle wasn't in the mood to talk about 'the Billion Dollar Princess' needing to think about their relationship, instead talking about how it had been fifty days since he was last WWF Champion, and it was on that date everything started to change. Now was the time, when he beat 'the Game' just like he always did - to go on to Backlash, and break Stone Cold Steve Austin's ankle, and get back the richest prize in this business! The Olympic Gold Medalist explained everybody saw what he did to 'the Texas Rattlesnake' on SmackDown - and April 29 would be no different. Angle wasn't goofing off, he was serious - fired up, and ready to get back what was rightfully his!
Vince McMahon's head was in his hands in the Commissioner's office, as Trish Stratus rubbed his leg to comfort him. Into the room walked a pasty-faced Commissioner William Regal, who solumnly tried to defend his actions. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' argued he was trying his best, and that he wanted to make this right. How was he to know Shane McMahon still had a contract with the World Wrestling Federation? He asked whether it could be terminated promptly, arguing that Shane's job as WCW Owner had to put him in the position for competing for a rival organization. The Chairman instead summarized Regal in a job performance: he let Trish against Stephanie McMahon go announced for Backlash; he let Shane McMahon into the building on two separate occasions; and he couldn't fire Shane, because he would sue him for all his worth and only show weakness! The WWF Owner was livid, but told Regal that something needed to be done. Vince gave Regal until the end of the week to fix what he started - or else he would be fired! Vince stomped out of the room, while Trish lingered to smile at the WWF Commissioner: it was nice knowing him.
- 7) WWF Women's Champion Chyna and Billy Gunn def. Crash and Molly Holly (2:39)Crash was a wound up man coming off of being decked by 'the One' Billy Gunn, during his cousin Molly Holly's unsuccessful WWF Women's Championship match with Chyna last week. Crash lost to Billy on RAW is WAR but wanted revenge in form of an intergender tag team match tonight. Fresh off her Tonight Show with Jay Leno appearance this past weekend, Chyna wanted to start but Crash was determined to get at Billy once again. Gunn outsmarted the smaller man, dumping him with a big back body drop followed by a tilt-a-whirl slam! His strength no match, he ran to cousin Molly Holly, when in came 'the Ninth Wonder of the World'. Smiling at each other and shaking hands, they chain-wrestled back and forth, when Chyna used her power to throw Molly out of the corner! Crash got the blind tag and cut Billy off with a chop block, grounding him. Ten punches in the corner went reversed into a powerbomb, and a dropkick sent Crash reeling! Molly tagged back in and went at it with Chyna, a near fall off a northern lights suplex. The Molly Go-Round missed, and a military press slam gave the dominant WWF Women's Champion the three count!
'The Ninth Wonder of the World' had been making the rounds on Jay Leno's Tonight Show, as well as being a dominant WWF Women's Champion ever since WrestleMania! 'The One' Billy Gunn excitably raised his girlfriend's hand to loud cheers, when Crash comically tried getting into Chyna's face and chest. Pointing deep into her chest with his finger, Billy sized him up and piefaced him, when Chyna muscled him up and dropped him big with the Powerbomb! The unmatched power of the Playboy covergirl had Billy overjoyous, raising her title high in the air.
- The time for talking was over now, with Triple H heading for the ring. He had lost to his opponent numerous times in the past year, but tonight - with the number one contender's spot on the line - 'the Game' was focused. Suddenly, he came across his ex-wife Stephanie McMahon. It had been a night of unusual encounters, as Triple H observed 'the Billion Dollar Princess' practically refusing to make eye contact with him. Wishing Hunter luck tonight against her apparant boyfriend Kurt Angle, a confused Triple H thanked her before taking off. Who would meet Stone Cold Steve Austin for the WWF Championship at Backlash? 8) Triple H def. Kurt Angle in a Number One Contender's match (8:21)'The Megastar' took everything from Triple H, beating him at Unforgiven last year as well as No Mercy, inside of Hell in a Cell. One of the most shocking moments last year came when Stephanie McMahon turned on her husband 'the Game' to be with the Olympic Gold Medalist. Now, Angle and Steph's future seemed to hang in the balance too. Both men broke out into a fight as the bell sounded. Sending Angle into the corner, Triple H bested the Olympian with a high knee strike! Angle responded by grounding Triple H, but the strength of 'the Game' allowed him to send Kurt from the ring! Kurt fired with a belly-to-belly suplex on the ringside floor for a count-out, but it came unsuccessful. Angle was aggressive, trapping Triple H in a sleeper, but he powered out and dropped Angle with the DDT! Both men down, Big Show came stomping to the ring! 'The Giant' failed against Austin last week, and tonight climbed into the ring to survey the carnage. Abruptly, Big Show grabbed Angle by the throat and delivered a massive Chokeslam! Show left the ring, when WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin came to fight the big man once again! Back inside, Triple H reversed an Angle Slam into the Pedigree - granting 'the Game' a destination of Backlash with Austin! INSERT REF BUMP
Having dumped Big Show into the steel steps, Stone Cold Steve Austin looked up to witness who had come out of tonight as the number one contender. With a smile on his face, the WWF Champion watched as Triple H gradually grew to his feet. Standing tall but barely after a tough main event, 'the Game' was heading to Backlash - to challenge for the WWF Championship! It was to be an untold battle, when 'the Texas Rattlesnake' slipped into the ring and dramatically dropped Triple H with the Stunner! The road to redemption for 'the Game' had one final roadblock, and Austin had wasted no time getting revenge on his next challenger, for the Pedigree received last week on SmackDown!
- BACKLASH, APRIL 29: Stone Cold Steve Austin (c) vs Triple H for the WWF Championship.
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 17, 2021 16:58:41 GMT -5
STEPHANIE MCMAHON vs TRISH STRATUS
The exposed love affair of Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus at WrestleMania enraged an emotional Stephanie McMahon. It ended a thirty-four year marriage to Linda McMahon, but caused irreconcilable and irreversible damage to the McMahon Family. Adamantly without her lover Kurt Angle, and her brother Shane McMahon, much to the chagrin of WWF Commissioner William Regal, this was 'the Billion Dollar Princess's shot at revenge on her treacherous snake of a former friend - one-on-one.
Matches to be announced. 13 DAYS AWAY!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 21, 2021 12:57:25 GMT -5
SmackDown! - April 19, 2001 Gaylord Entertainment Center in Nashville, Tennessee Broadcast on UPNTaped on April 17, 2001
The opening video package aired, bringing us to Nashville, Tennessee for SmackDown! Pyrotechnics erupted in the rafters over the ring, as well as across the stage. With ten days remaining until Stone Cold Steve Austin's WWF Championship defense against Triple H at Backlash, Michael Cole and Tazz welcomed us to the show - with a loaded show in store tonight!
- TONIGHT: Triple H vs Chris Jericho
- TONIGHT: Bradshaw (c) vs Chris Benoit in a Falls Count Anywhere match for the WWF European Championship.
- TONIGHT: Stephanie McMahon and Trish Stratus sign the contract for their match at Backlash.
- Chris Jericho was amped, standing alongside Jonathan Coachman ahead of the main event confrontation in a longtime rival in Triple H. Y2J expressed the buzz in the pit of his stomach, digressing from the shackles of this confusing, boring and odoriffic partnership with the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven. To hell with the head games Raven was playing, Y2J was prepared to get back on track starting tonight. Jericho voiced how he had beaten 'the Game' before, and how he would do it again tonight. Beating the newly-named number one contender would put him on track for a shot at the WWF Championship - something he was very much interested in. Y2J claimed that tonight, when he wiped the floor in Smashville with Triple H, he would never, ever be the same agayn!
- 1) X-Factor (w/WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac) def. WWF Tag Team Champions The Dudley Boyz (4:22)X-Pac made it out of RAW is WAR still the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion, but it came with thanks to play in part to Rhyno, for Goring Jeff Hardy into next week. Tonight was Lance Storm and Justin Credible's opportunity to enter the WWF Tag Team Championship mix, as an immensely focused Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley arrived bent on retribution. Following Perry Saturn's assault in the locker room on Monday, there was no Spike Dudley. Instead, the Dudley Boyz worked to get this match over with in quick nature. A double flapjack on Storm connecting, when a distraction from X-Pac allowed Credible to strike with a neckbreaker. Storm and Credible worked frequently, isolating Bubba Ray from his half-brother, and another X-Pac distraction allowed X-Factor to drive Bubba crotch-first into the ring post! The Bubba Bomb landed on Justin, giving D-Von the tag! The Dudleyville Device connected on Storm, when X-Pac was caught with Wazzup connecting. D-Von was ordered to get the tables, but at ringside the Radicalz would jump D-Von from behind! The referee was distracted by X-Pac, as a double superkick to Bubba gave X-Factor the pin!
For the second time in a week, the wool had been pulled over the Dudley Boyz's eyes by the Radicalz! Terri watched from the rampway licking her lips in flirtation, as Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko grinned mischievously. X-Factor was joined by their leader X-Pac in the ring; the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion congratulating Lance Storm and Justin Credible on scoring a pinfall victory against the WWF Tag Team Champions! Meanwhile, Bubba Ray checked on D-Von on the floor - his eyes firmly set on 'the She-Devil'.
- Commissioner William Regal sat in his office taking care of paperwork, when in strutted Trish Stratus. With much cleavage on display, the girlfriend of Vince McMahon bent over the table, reminding 'the Goodwill Ambassador's stipulation assigned by her lover. If Regal couldn't find a solution to the Shane McMahon problem, he would be fired; and Trish informed William that Shane O'Mac was already in the building! Irked by her flirtation, the Englishman asserted he had this under control, and it was none of her business. He was going to tell the WCW Owner to his face what happened when he crossed the WWF Commissioner. Regal told the WWF Diva to focus on her own affairs - she had a contract signing with Stephanie McMahon to prepare for. Trish giggled, asking William for his input: Vince bought her the new outfit she was wearing, just for tonight's signing. Regal was tempted but shook his head in protest. Regal had prior engagements to fulfill - in the ring!
'The Goodwill Ambassador' was a man of his word, Commissioner William Regal making his way down to the ring to allegedly confront the WCW Owner Shane McMahon. Dressed sharply in a grey three-piece suit, Regal tolerated the loud boos from the Tennessee crowd, announcing that there were many duties that came with being WWF Commissioner that were quite frankly boarish. Nonetheless, they were a storm he could weather. Regal insulted the bunch of ignoramuses on hand in Nashville, turning to address Vince McMahon's appointed deadline with his job on the line. William planned to deliver knowing full well that Shane McMahon was backstage already, and didn't waste any time in personally demanding the WCW Owner come out to face him! Shane McMahon was rolling with a new hip-hop track playing him to the ring, the son of the Chairman jiving and dancing his way down the rampway to loud cheers. As Shane climbed into the ring, the WCW Owner reminded William of Monday night, revealing the rolled up documents of his contract from his rear pocket! The Englishman immediately stared Shane in the face, calling him a rotten little toerag.
The WWF Commissioner voiced his disapproval in being outsmarted by Shane O'Mac more times than he cared to count, and spoke of how much he detested the WCW Owner's insistence to show up to RAW and SmackDown at all cost - despite nobody wanting him here! Shane immediately surveyed the people, asking who wanted to see Shane O'Mac here tonight. The crowd erupted, as he began to make fun of William's vocabulary. To him, it sounded Victorian, yet they were right here in the year 2001. While Regal was living in the 19th Century, Shane spoke of how he was living it up right here in the 21st! Nashville cheered Shane on, as he acknowledged Regal's deadline, but he didn't need to be so loyal to Vince McMahon. Shane wanted to remind William who brought him to the World Wrestling Federation last year, and who made it possible for him to be named the WWF Commissioner! Before his Dad showed his true colors at WrestleMania, there were no hostilities between he and William - but why be loyal to Vince, when he could be loyal to Shane? Shane tried tempting William to jump ship to WCW, but Regal's face went beet red!
The WCW Owner watched staight-faced, as a ballistic William Regal declined the offer to join WCW. The WWF Commissioner refuted Shane McMahon's need to be here, that he was only here to con people out of their money, making them watch whatever was left of WCW. Regal explained he had no power in the World Wrestling Federation - and the man signing his cheques was his father, the all-knowing WWF Owner Vince McMahon. Shane coolly nodded, understanding William's predicament. Setting the record straight, Shane revealed that he was only here fulfilling contractual obligations. At the end of the day, it was the people that kept Shane here - much like the people were keeping WCW alive! In the WCW Owner's mind, there was nothing that could stop him from showing up. 'The Goodwill Ambassador's declared a solution: challenging Shane McMahon to a match at Backlash, with Shane's talent contract on the line! Calling Regal's bluff, Shane accepted and requested a gentleman's handshake. Regal was adamant about it being set in stone later, but accepted the call - but it was a hoax, and Shane slapped Regal across the face before exiting the ring! Regal threw a tantrum in the ring, outsmarted again!
- BACKLASH, APRIL 29: WWF Commissioner William Regal vs WCW Owner Shane McMahon for Shane McMahon's World Wrestling Federation contract.
- Hot off the heels of costing Rhyno the WWF Hardcore Championship against Kane on RAW is WAR, Jeff Hardy and Lita walked and talked the halls of the Gaylord Entertainment Center.Team Xtreme encountered Paul Heyman, loudly requesting a minute of Jeff's time in privacy. Paul sat backwards on a chair, while Jeff left Lita to speak with the broadcast journalist. Paul told Jeff that he was a huge fan of his work, speaking of how much potential he had to offer. Paul would have flipped his lid to have a guy like him in ECW - but he wanted to warn him of the verocity of 'the Man-Beast'. Heyman echoed that Rhyno was the last ECW Champion, and already a former multiple-time WWF Hardcore Champion. Not to mention, he was the killer that took Hulk Hogan and broke his ribs up badly! Not interested, Jeff told Paul to make his point. Reminding Jeff of his match with Big Show tonight, Paul sent a warning: to watch out for Rhyno. Jeff knew the game, and he was gonna keep living for the moment. Jeff told Heyman to his face that he wasn't afraid of the animal.
- TONIGHT: Jeff Hardy vs Big Show
Fresh off the challenge made to Shane McMahon for a match at Backlash, Commissioner William Regal returned to the backstage area. Waiting for him through the curtain was the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven with a favor to ask. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' listened as Raven walked and talked, requesting a match for tonight. After the performance Chris Jericho and himself had put on last Monday against the Right to Censor, Raven proposed that tonight they take on the WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin, and his number one contender Triple H! Raven tried to sell William on the match, bringing the Englishman to put his foot down - telling him that he was too busy to hear these numskull ramblings from a mad man! Regal was in a foul mood after being besmirched by the WCW Owner in the ring.
Up walked Vince McMahon, who made the Commissioner freeze on sight. The Chairman had heard Raven's proposition for tonight and agreed to it - changing the main event to a tag team match! Raven fist bumped in celebration, thanking the WWF Owner. With the WWF Intercontinental Champion gone, Vince McMahon smiled as he told Commissioner William Regal that he had made good on his end of the bargain. Proud of 'the Goodwill Ambassador', Regal chuckled, when the Chairman placed his arm on his shoulder. Vince explained that this kind of aggression was what they needed - and at Backlash, not only would William send his son Shane McMahon packing from the World Wrestling Federation for good - but he would do so by kicking the ever-loving cr*p out of the WCW Owner. Vince laughed with glee at the idea of Shane O'Mac crying over WCW's second failure. The Englishman thanked Vince for his support, but in turning to leave, the boss would not let go - warning him that he'd better win come Backlash, or else!
- TONIGHT: WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H vs WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho
- 2) Rob Van Dam def. Crash (w/Molly Holly) (3:17)'The Whole Dam Show' was distracted by Perry Saturn's assault of Spike Dudley in the locker room last Monday night, which opened Rob Van Dam up for another low victory by Eddie Guerrero. The hot-tempered Crash marched to the ring with cousin Molly Holly, sure to be seething after the Powerbomb from WWF Women's Champion Chyna three nights ago. The two chain-wrestled from the bell, with RVD able to use his quickness to sweep the legs of Crash out from under him. Crash looked to outwit Van Dam with a monkey flip, but the ECW alumni would respond by landing on his feet and giving Crash one for good measure! Crash bailed to the floor, but Van Dam would follow with a somersault plancha! Back inside, Crash decked RVD as he re-entered, and aggressively dropped him with a DDT. Applying a camel clutch, Van Dam would find a way out and break free with a roundhouse kick! The Rolling Thunder landed, and not long thereafter, having sent Crash from the second rope the Five-Star Frog Splash would give RVD the win!
The cool newcomer had garnered another victory tonight against a heavily motivated Crash, Rob Van Dam avenging the loss to Eddie Guerrero from RAW is WAR. Speaking of 'Latino Heat', to the ring came Eddie Guerrero jumping RVD from behind! The crowd in Nashville booed, as Guerrero put the boots to Van Dam, who was able to reverse a big back body drop into a massive dropkick! It sent Eddie from the ring, as the second part of the Radicalz' clear game plan for the night had failed to come to fruition! Van Dam pointed at himself with his thumbs, while clearly looking for another fight with the weaselly Eddie.
- In the production truck, Kurt Angle was seen sat in the gallery complaining with the producer on the travesty of RAW is WAR's number one contender's match. 'The Megastar' showed the producer a replay of the Big Show's interference that would cost him the match with Triple H. Getting the producer to pause on a freezeframe of 'the Giant' giving him the Chokeslam, Kurt argued that he should be on his way to Backlash to face Stone Cold Steve Austin for the WWF Championship. Angle pressed the producer to agree with him, but the producer argued 'the Game' would fairly. Aggravated, the Olympic Gold Medalist stood up and stormed out in rage - crying of a conspiracy!
WWF Divas Ambassador Debra spoke with the WWF Women's Champion Chyna in the backstage area, with 'the Ninth Wonder of the World's boyfriend 'the One' Billy Gunn cheerily listening in closeby. Debra congratulated the Playboy covergirl on her tremendous success already had. She'd already appeared on Sunday Night Heat, at WWF New York, been doing interviews with all the magazines; and had the opportunity to chat with Jay Leno! Chyna argued, thanking Debra for scheduling her up with these breakout guest appearances. Complimenting Debra on the great work she was doing, Chyna said this was what she had set out to do: erase the stink that Ivory had left on the WWF Women's Championship. Chyna confirmed her plans to hold another open invitational to the rest of the WWF Divas this coming Monday on RAW is WAR - with the title up for grabs. Billy laughed, chiming in excitedly talking about how Chyna's star was on the rise more and more with each day!
- RAW IS WAR, MONDAY NIGHT: Chyna defends the WWF Women's Championship in an open invitational to the WWF Divas locker room.
- Edge and Christian were making their way to the ring for a tag team grudge match with Kaientai, but took to the microphones to voice their displeasure for having to be here tonight in Nashville, Tennessee. The brothers from Toronto mocked the Tennesseeans' accents, with Christian joking about how they all sucked worse than the Nashville Predators had this season. Edge talked about their issues with Kaientai, and how the kooky Japanese fellows had their fun - but tonight the fun would stop with Edge and Christian totally kicking their asses.
Kaientai made their way out to the stage waving the Japanese flags, when Taka Michinoku laughed at the Canadians' jokes about them. What Edge and Christian both failed to realize was they couldn't possibly win. Kaientai were EVIL and had beaten them before! Taka turned to Funaki for back-up, echoing a booming "INDEED". Taka soon declared that once they poop on Edge and Christian's party, they were going for the WWF Tag Team Championships! Kaientai hit the ring, looking to go back to Japan famous from another hopeful upset. 3) Edge and Christian def. Kaientai (3:22)Since losing the WWF Tag Team Championships in TLC II at WrestleMania, it appeared that Edge and Christian had lost their way. A huge upset by Edge to Funaki last week on SmackDown had rocked the Canadians' confidence, but tonight was their chance to rid themselves of the thorn in their side that was Kaientai. Taka Michinoku and Funaki brought the fight to Edge and Christian early, a spinning headscissors from Taka forcing the former champs to regroup, when Taka soared with a springboard plancha to the floor! Edge would turn things around with the Edge-o-matic on Funaki, allowing he and Christian to dissect the elder Kaientai member. With quick tags and illegal beatings, a double-decker superplex gave them a near fall. Christian landed the inverted DDT, but in the attack saw Funaki pull a major near fall on Edge with the same move he won with last week - the crucifix pin! Taka made the tag, with dropkicks and armdrags leading to a tornado DDT! Edge got the blind tag as Christian got dropped with the Michinoku Driver, when Edge struck with the spear, giving Christian victory!
The Canadians had avenged their loss to Kaientai in singles action from last week, with Edge and Christian successful tonight. Raising their hands in victory, the former WWF Tag Team Champions had big smiles on their faces at ringside, as Funaki came to check on Taka Michinoku in the ring.
- Kurt Angle had the referees' attention in their dressing room, as 'the Megastar' showed official Mike Chioda a replay of the number one contender's match from RAW is WAR. Pointing at the monitor to show the Big Show giving him a Chokeslam, the Olympic Gold Medalist demanded Mike reconsider his decision and reverse it in his favor. Chioda commented on being unaware of what happened on account of being knocked out, while the referees bickered about their ruling in the background. Angle complained about how ludicrous this all was. He was missing out on a shot at the WWF Championship at Backlash - because of Triple H's cheap tactics, referee incompetence, and that big fat doofus the Big Show! Angle stormed off, stating that he was the rightful number one contender!
Meanwhile, Big Show snarled with a foul look on his face, walking the halls heading for the ring. Up next, 'the Giant' that failed to capture the WWF Championship from Stone Cold Steve Austin last week looked to take out his frustration against Jeff Hardy!
Steven Richards marched in front of the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry in a white room at an undisclosed location. The Right to Censor members sat in chairs, as Steven voiced his displeasure at the shame the group had brought the Good Fight since WrestleMania. They were all strong, imposing and level-headed soldiers in this fight, but they needed to do better - and they needed to be better! Richards claimed it left him no choice but to bring the RTC together, so they could start over. They needed a fresh start, but it meant leaving this place retrained and reprogrammed. Steven glared Bull Buchanan in his eyes, asking if he was ready to be better. Bull didn't blink, but stated he was with Steven. Steven looked Mark Henry in the face, asking if he was ready to become a better person. With no hesitance, 'the Secret Weapon' claimed to be loyal to Steven all the way. Steven turned to the Goodfather, asking if he was ready. Goodfather appeared disinterested and sceptical, bringing Richards to question his loyalty. Steven claimed he used to be a sleazeball pimp before the RTC saved him. Clearly annoyed, Goodfather remarked that he was in.
- Expecting the Big Show up against Jeff Hardy, down the rampway walked Kurt Angle. To loud boos, 'the Megastar' was unimpressed at 'the Giant' costing him the number one contender's match with Triple H on RAW is WAR. Angle came in the ring with a microphone, disgusted at the fans condoning what went down on Monday night. Kurt said he should be the number one contender to the WWF Championship, facing Stone Cold Steve Austin come Backlash. The Olympic Gold Medalist flashed a replay on the OvalTron, showing the Big Show dropping him with a Chokeslam, and giving 'the Game' the assist to win the match. Kurt cried that he was screwed by the Big Show, who he claimed was not 'the World's Largest Athlete'. Compared to the Olympian - he wasn't an athlete at all! He was big, he was fat - he was lazy and useless! Angle was stumped at how Show was a former WWF Champion. With a pyrotechnical blast, out stomped Big Show! 'The Giant' marched to the ring, giving time for Angle to flee. Show was not in the mood for Kurt's remarks, daring him to step inside! Instead, Jeff Hardy and Lita made their way out to the arena for singles action! 4) Jeff Hardy (w/Lita) def. Big Show (2:34)Like Kurt Angle, Big Show was not pleased about losing out on becoming WWF Champion. With last week's loss to Stone Cold Steve Austin, 'the Giant' had in turn cost 'the Megastar' his shot at the title in the number one contender's match on RAW is WAR. Kurt Angle stuck around at ringside, joining commentary for the match where he continued verbally attacking the Big Show. Inside, Jeff Hardy scrappily fought Big Show who immediately derailed him with a big boot! Staring the Olympic Gold Medalist in the eyes, he tore the shirt and chopped Jeff firmly in the chest before gorilla pressing him across the ring! Show missed an elbow drop giving Hardy an opening to deliver a splash from the second rope for a near fall. Big Show struck with a headbutt, and the Final Cut was tried - when Lita's distraction enabled Jeff to dropkick the big man! The 500-pounder was rocked, and a spinout enzuigiri knocked him down! Jeff went up for the Swanton Bomb, when Show evaded by rolling out of the way. Jeff dove into Show's hand, when a distraction from Lita saw Kurt Angle hit the ring, dropping a massive Angle Slam on the Big Show! Jeff hit the Swanton Bomb, to pull off the 500-pound upset!
With some help from a vengeful Kurt Angle, Jeff Hardy had just picked up the biggest singles victory of his career to date! Against a former WWF Champion in the Big Show, Jeff was joined by brother Matt's girlfriend Lita at ringside as the fans in Nashville came unglued for the upset! 'The Megastar' laughed in jest at Big Show from the top of the rampway, while 'the Giant' sat up in the ring. Absolutely livid at the Olympic Gold Medalist, the 500-pounder let out a roar directed at his former teammate from the Coalition!
- Vince McMahon read through the contents of a contract in his office, when Lilian Garcia approached the Chairman for an interview. The ring announcer and journalist asked for the WWF Owner's take on the contract signing scheduled for tonight, but Vince reasoned how he didn't wish to divulge any information about the paperwork in hand. Vince knew that this match between his love, Trish Stratus and his daughter, Stephanie McMahon was to go down at Backlash - but it would only go down on his terms. Vince's stipulations didn't only protect Trish from Stephanie; but it also protected Stephanie from Trish. In the interest of fairness, the Chairman explained that he would moderate the contract signing before leaving for the ring.
A replay showed Kurt Angle making way for Jeff Hardy to score the biggest upset of his career against Big Show, when footage aired from during the commercial break. Kurt Angle backed away frantically as Big Show came bellowing after him! 'The Giant' flipped a table over and slammed his fist against anything in his path, while 'the Megastar' tried reasoning that he couldn't touch him even if he wanted to! Show power-walked after the Olympic Gold Medalist, who continued to mock the 500-pounder's size and weight! Angle was prodding the bear.
- In the arena, Vince McMahon came strutting to the ring to reportedly oversee and moderate the official contract signing between Trish Stratus and Stephanie McMahon. A table with three chairs were set up in the ring, as the Chairman planted his contract on the table in the center. Speaking on how he might not like the fact this match at Backlash would be happening, he knew that it was for the best interests of both parties involved. This match at Backlash was not like any before - for one because it would pit the love of his life, and apple of his eye - Trish Stratus - against his own thought-to-be precious daughter, Stephanie McMahon! At first Vince placed the blame on Commissioner William Regal for even letting this go sanctioned, but now there was no other way around it. After shutting up the slack-jawed fans in Nashville that hurled abuse his way, the WWF Owner surmized they had been fighting for weeks without relent. But as much as he couldn't avoid this match in ten days - Vince knew it could only be held under the correct circumstances!
The boss explained that the contract not only authorized the match at Backlash, but it protected both women from the other. Vince claimed there would be no physical contact between the two between tonight and April 29 - and if there were to be any breaches, then the match would be off, with fines to pay and suspensions to be dealt! Without further adieu, the Chairman welcomed out the first competitor - his girlfriend, Trish Stratus! Greeting Vince with a smile in the little red outfit he'd bought her, Trish received derogatory remarks from Nashville as she formally shook her partner's hand. Vince pulled the chair out for Trish, who thanked him for doing this. Claiming how there was nothing she wanted more than for this match to happen the right way - giving her and Stephanie McMahon time to train and prepare for Backlash - she called Vince a gifted asset to sports entertainment. Tennessee booed loudly as Vince thanked Trish professionally, before welcoming out his daughter - and second participant - Stephanie McMahon! 'The Billion Dollar Princess' scowled at Trish Stratus and Vince McMahon as she joined them in the ring.
Stephanie McMahon, days after apparently separating from Kurt Angle on RAW is WAR, immediately went nose to nose with her own father, who tried to calm her down. Vince McMahon tried explaining to Steph that things didn't need to go this way, but she immediately took a microphone and warned him not to tick her off. Turning to Trish and going face to face with her former friend, Stratus stood back in fear as the two ladies finally sat down at the desk. Trish urged that she hated how it had all come down to this. They were great friends, they used to tell each other everything - but in classic Steph fashion, she was too selfish to understand that Trish's love was all that her Daddy wanted. With an evil smile, Trish's face dropped when Stephanie retorted: she couldn't wait to re-arrange Stratus's face at Backlash! Immediately signing the contract, Steph grew to her feet and stared Vince in the face. In Stephanie's mind, Vince had some nerve letting this happen. His own wife Linda was sat in a practically vegetative, medicated state back home, still unsure what the hell her husband was up to.
Linda didn't know Vince was sleeping with a hussy like Trish, and Steph didn't have the heart to tell her own mother the truth. Stephanie told Vince that he sickened her to her core, when the Chairman urged 'the Billion Dollar Princess' to feel that way - but maybe once her aggression was all let out after Backlash, she'd come to her true senses. Suddenly, Trish Stratus came from behind, striking Stephanie with the clipboard! The WWF Diva had done wrong by the contract, as Trish put the boots to Vince's own daughter, right in front of him! Throwing off her fur coat, Trish choked Stephanie with it aggressively forcing Vince to finally pull her off! Vince questioned what the hell she was doing, believing her to have fines to pay, and the match at Backlash cancelled! Trish handed Vince the contract - to reveal that Trish had never signed it! Allowing this to happen with a laugh, Trish mounted Steph with rights and lefts - when finally Shane McMahon hit the ring, running off his father and his girlfriend. Shane checked on Stephanie, whose eyes lit up with rage. At ringside, Trish finally signed the contract - the match set in stone, no more contact to be made until April 29 at Backlash!
The contract signing ended in chaos before the break, with Trish Stratus assaulting Stephanie McMahon in front of a glad Vince McMahon. With Stephanie forbaden from retaliating, it was her brother Shane McMahon who came to her aid! Backstage, Stephanie McMahon was surrounded by officials checking on the back of her head to 'the Billion Dollar Princess's protest. Up walked Shane McMahon to check on his sister once more, rubbing her shoulder and asking how she was. Stephanie was frustrated by the trainer checking her vision and hearing, demanding a moment in private. The WCW Owner was concerned, but Steph told Shane that she'd told him before - she was fine, and she could handle this herself. This wasn't his fight, and she hadn't gotten over what he'd put her through. Steph dizzily got up, falling into Shane's arms, who began trying to convince her this was his fight too - against their father. Steph urged Shane to focus on William Regal - she'd handle Trish and Vince. Officials hopped in to help her walk away, leaving Shane to smirk - Steph was as stubborn as ever.
- 5) Bradshaw (c) def. Chris Benoit in a Falls Count Anywhere match to retain the WWF European Championship (4:18)Chris Benoit had drawn the ire of the WWF European Champion in recent weeks, from trying to snap Bradshaw's ankle with a steel chair to going at it in backstage fist fights. In a Falls Count Anywhere match tonight, the tough Texan looked for revenge wasting no time in combating Benoit in the ring. Bradshaw dressed in jeans and an APA shirt, out to teach 'the Rabid Wolverine' a lesson. They duked it out with Bradshaw blocking a German suplex and sending the Canadian from the ring! The battle spread ringside, a big boot sending Benoit into the crowd! The champ dumped a fan's beer over Benoit's head, but a low blow and a drop toe hold sent Bradshaw into a steel chair seat! Applying the cross-armbreaker on the staircase of the arena, Benoit would punish Bradshaw with haymakers as they reached the backstage area! A snap suplex on concrete garnered a near fall for 'the Wolverine', when Bradshaw used a lead pipe to lay out Benoit! Onto the stage, Bradshaw's fallaway slam was reversed into the Crossface - causing him to fade. Kicking Bradshaw down the rampway, sending him rolling, 'the Rabid Wolverine' followed poised with confidence.
Suddenly, the lights would go out - and Limp Bizkit began to play! On stage appeared the Undertaker - knee support and all - with a wrench in hand! Benoit could not believe his eyes, as 'the American Badass' stared him down. Marching towards him, Benoit tried to fight him, only to receive a wrench shot to the gut - and one to the side of the temple! Undertaker dumped Benoit back inside to eat the Clothesline From Hell; Bradshaw retaining the WWF European Championship!
It had been weeks since anybody had last seen the Undertaker, but patting a wrench in his palms from ringside watched 'the American Badass' with a smile. Chris Benoit had lost this Falls Count Anywhere war to Bradshaw, with 'the Deadman' personally responsible! Undertaker put his sunglasses back on and walked away slowly, leaving the WWF European Champion Bradshaw to dominantly raise his title high.
- The WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven taped his fists ahead of the re-assigned tag team main event, when in stomed his not-so-pleased partner Chris Jericho! Immediately knocking his shopping cart over, Y2J demanded to know why Raven had had the main event changed. Jericho was more than ready to defeat Triple H one-on-one tonight, and accused him of sabotage. Raven tried talking Jericho down, but Y2J warned him knowing what he was up to - because he could smell Raven like he could smell a skunk. Raven argued this match put Jericho in a much better situation. Jericho wanted the WWF Championship, he'd said it earlier tonight. Wouldn't it be better if Y2J beat Stone Cold Steve Austin in the ring tonight? Jericho pointed the finger at his contentious adversary, warning him not to screw him over. Storming out, Raven reasoned after him: he only wanted to be a hero like the great Chris Jericho!
The Undertaker toyed with the wrench he left Chris Benoit laying with moments ago, when approached for an interview by Jonathan Coachman. Cool, calm and sinisterly, 'the American Badass' was asked about his surprise return, and how the condition of his knee. The Undertaker cooly expressed the pain he felt, but it was not as painful as what 'the Rabid Wolverine' might feel. Benoit gave a hell of a fight at WrestleMania, and he knew he was hungry for more. But the parking lot scene the night after on RAW is WAR; it made 'the Deadman' feel a lot of things - but mostly angry. For weeks, Benoit had talked and talked about how this was his yard now, and how Undertaker was a coward. Now, the time had come to remind Benoit whose yard this belonged to: and Benoit would respect the Undertaker. Whether his kneecap was shattered or not, Backlash would be the place that Benoit became a made man: when the Undertaker made him famous.- 6) D-Lo Brown and Albert def. Test and K-Kwik (3:45)D-Lo Brown had apparently paid Albert off to be his bodyguard on more than one occasion. Test and K-Kwik had also become a formidable duo, with K-Dawg equalizing Albert on RAW is WAR allowing Test to put away 'the Real Deal'. In tag team action tonight, Test and K-Kwik hit the ring together to combat D-Lo and 'the Freight Train'. Brown and K-Kwik started; showboating from the rich man allowing K-Kwik to take control. Dropping down with the splits before a dropkick soon saw K-Kwik backflip into a back suplex, when a Mexican wave wristlock gave the tag to Test - working the arm of D-Lo. A tilt-a-whirl slam connected on D-Lo, when K-Kwik was cut off by Albert wrenching on his hair off the ropes! The rapper tried chopping Albert down, only to be flattened with a gorilla press slam! A double suplex gave D-Lo a near fall, with Brown taunting Test. K-Kwik hit a huricanrana to send D-Lo into Albert; and the tag was made to Test! Running hot on both men, Test delivered the pumphandle slam on Brown. Test went to the top rope for the diving elbow drop, when Albert used the gold chain from around his neck to knock Test out! D-Lo covered, to steal the win!
D-Lo Brown had his hand raised by his larger accomplice Albert, standing over the unconscious Test in the ring. 'The Freight Train' clenched the gold chain in his fist, having struck his former T&A tag team partner with it behind the referee's back. K-Kwik was down at ringside, while Test had been devastated. 'The Real Deal' meanwhile celebrated, jumping into Albert's arms in victory. D-Lo had to be paying Albert big for outings like these.
- In the locker room, Jeff Hardy tried to fight Rhyno off, only to receive a shot from a steel chair! Earlier tonight Paul Heyman warned Team Xtreme about what 'the Man-Beast' was capable of, and Rhyno began to maliciously throttled Jeff - ramming the back of his head into some steel lockers! Rhyno walked away from Jeff and planned to give Jeff the Gore, when into the room rushed Lita with a fire extinguisher in hand - pointing it his way. Rhyno growled at her as she checked on Jeff, when referees arrived escorting the animal from the room. Rhyno would not let this go, having been cost the WWF Hardcore Championship last Monday night.
Scotty 2 Hotty walked the backstage hall grinning, when bumping into an unknown woman with dark long hair. As tall as Scotty, and as built as him, the girl introduced herself to Scotty as Victoria and spoke fondly about seeing him so much on TV. She commented on how much she enjoyed watching Scotty's "Worm" perform. She'd also heard the news about him getting his rematch with X-Pac on Sunday Night Heat, with the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship on the line! Victoria wanted to wish Scotty luck, before surprisingly kissing him on the cheek! Walking away excitedly, Victoria disappeared down the hall bringing him to watch her leave. He giggled himself before dancing on the spot and sauntering off. Whomever Victoria was, it appeared she had the hots for Scotty 2 Hotty!
- SUNDAY NIGHT HEAT, THIS SUNDAY: X-Pac (c) vs Scotty 2 Hotty for the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship.
Speaking of Sunday Night Heat, Michael Cole and Tazz sat at the announce table to discuss the show that they would be hosting this weekend live from WWF New York in New York City. Not only would Scotty have the opportunity again to capture the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship from X-Pac, but Al Snow would be in the house to preview the series premiere of WWF Tough Enough; plus, the Big Show would be joining them! They segued to discuss WWF Backlash live on pay-per-view in ten days, with one new addition made to the line-up:
- BACKLASH, APRIL 29: The Dudley Boyz (c) vs The Radicalz in a Tables match for the WWF Tag Team Championship.
- Triple H prepared for the main event in just a few moments, once again forced to team with the WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin to battle Chris Jericho and WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven. Immediately, Stone Cold Steve Austin confronted him in the hallway. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' spoke to the man he would meet in ten days at Backlash, telling 'the Game' that being number one contender didn't mean a damn thing to him. They weren't boozing buddies, pen pals or even acquaintances. They would never be guys that send each other Christmas cards. Austin told Triple H man to man that he saw him as a threat, and if HHH dared to cross him tonight, he could expect to take his ass out before Backlash. Triple H smirked, assuring Steve that he was paranoid. He was out to do one thing tonight, and beat Y2J and Raven. Austin slapped 'the Game' drastically, prompting an intense face-off. Stone Cold warned Triple H to wipe the smirk off his face - he'd see him in the ring!
Meanwhile, the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and his girl Tori walked the corridor, wheeling their shopping cart together. The main event was coming up next, and Raven could not be happier about their plan coming together! On a splitscreen, a motivated Chris Jericho walked backstage himself - Y2J making it known how big a victory he wanted tonight against 'the Game' - now he would have a bigger opportunity, getting the WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin in the same match!7) WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho (w/Tori) def. WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H (8:16)What was designed to be Chris Jericho against Triple H, was changed thanks to the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven. The unique allies of Raven and Y2J had been successful against X-Factor and the Right to Censor, but now had to contend with the hot-headed combination of Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H. The two would meet for the WWF Championship at Backlash. Triple H allowed Austin to start the match with Y2J, who went hold-for-hold with the WWF Champion until Raven tagged himself in. Wanting to be a hero for the first time in his life, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' bodied Raven with a Lou Thesz press. Austin stomped a mudhole in him, sarcastically tagging in 'the Game' with a chest chop. 'The Game' smirked before hammering on Raven, who responded with an eye rake and a neckbreaker! He and Y2J traded tags, a double lifting reverse DDT executed. Raven choked Triple H against the ropes, when Y2J broke it up - preventing a disqualification.
A double underhook backbreaker gave Chris Jericho a near fall, as Y2J and Raven continued beating on 'the Game'. Raven flipped off the WWF Champion, when Triple H caught him off the second rope with the DDT! Stone Cold tagged in, running wild on both Raven and Y2J! Raven came in wielding a kendo stick from his shopping cart, prevented by Triple H's spinebuster. Triple H clotheslined Raven from the ring and picked the stick up; caught red-handed by Austin! Stone Cold warned Triple H, but from behind came Y2J with an inverted Russian legsweep! Austin kicked out at two, when Y2J tried applied the Walls of Jericho - only for Austin to kick him off. Triple H and Raven tagged in while Y2J and Austin brawled out to the ringside area. The Pedigree landed on Raven after a short exchange - but 'the Rattlesnake' shockingly dropped 'the Game' with the Stunner! Austin dragged Raven over, inexplicably giving up the match!
Raven was left laying atop of Triple H, as Stone Cold Steve Austin marched across the ring having cost his own tag team partner the match! 'The Texas Rattlesnake' had to be paranoid about 'the Game' being the number one contender, with the WWF Championship match set imminently for Backlash in ten days. Tori celebrated, coming into the ring to aid the WWF Intercontinental Champion to his feet. Chris Jericho could be seen dumbfounded from ringside, but as Tori raised her groggy man's hand in victory over 'the Game', Austin would halt the celebration: a Stunner dropping Raven for good measure! Austin left the ring on his own two feet alone, with only the WWF Championship - things were heating up ahead of Backlash!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 22, 2021 13:49:02 GMT -5
STEPHANIE MCMAHON vs TRISH STRATUS If physical contact is made before Backlash, the match is cancelled. The exposed love affair of Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus at WrestleMania enraged an emotional Stephanie McMahon. It ended a thirty-four year marriage to Linda McMahon, but caused irreconcilable and irreversible damage to the McMahon Family. During a contract signing between the two, the Chairman would insert a stipulation citing that no physical contact could be made ahead of Backlash. Adamantly without her lover Kurt Angle, and her brother Shane McMahon, much to the chagrin of WWF Commissioner William Regal, this was 'the Billion Dollar Princess's shot at revenge on her treacherous snake of a former friend - one-on-one.
FOR SHANE MCMAHON'S WWF CONTRACT WILLIAM REGAL vs SHANE MCMAHONThe stubbornness of Shane McMahon had drawn irritation from the WWF Commissioner. Having acquired WCW from under his nose, the Chairman tried to ensure Shane O'Mac would be banned from arenas nationwide. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' tried making it so - if not for Shane's still-active talent contract. In order to avoid a lawsuit, Regal personally challenged Shane to put his contract at stake. Now the Englishman was at pressure by the WWF Owner to get the job done. Would Regal regain his respect by beating Shane, or would Shane continue to be welcomed in the World Wrestling Federation? WWF TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP TABLES MATCH THE DUDLEY BOYZ (c) vs THE RADICALZ2001 was becoming the Dudley Boyz' year, becoming three-time WWF Tag Team Champions from TLC II at WrestleMania X-Seven. Being joined by their little brother Spike Dudley and an old friend, Rob Van Dam, the Dudleys had RVD's back against beatdowns from the Radicalz. The Radicalz had become meaner, sneakier, and out to do the bidding of Terri. She was humiliated to find Spike spying on her in the shower. Stirring the pot saw Perry Saturn respond violently against 'the Runt of the Dudley Litter'. Saturn and Dean Malenko were gunning for their first taste of Tag gold - while the Dudleys strived to introduce 'the She-Devil' to the wood. Matches to be announced. 10 DAYS AWAY!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 23, 2021 5:11:05 GMT -5
Jakked - April 21, 2001 Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee Broadcast in syndicationTaped on April 16, 2001
The opening video package aired, bringing us to the arena for WWF Jakked. Kevin Kelly and Jonathan Coachman welcomed us to the show, discussing events of the past week in the World Wrestling Federation. Backlash was only eight days away, live on pay-per-view on Sunday, April 29!
- 1) X-Factor def. Damien and Seven (3:57) Coming off a big victory against the WWF Tag Team Champions the Dudley Boyz on SmackDown, X-Factor rolled into tonight against rising stars Damien and Seven. The gothic tag team rallied the fans behind them in competing with Justin Credible and Lance Storm, to be cut off with a double hiptoss. Separating Seven from Damien, Credible taunted Damien as Storm grounded Seven. Damien got the tag, only to be cut off with That's Incredible, giving X-Factor another win. 2) Essa Rios def. Race Steele (4:06) [Broadcast on WWF Metal] Essa Rios's pursuit of the WWF Hardcore Championship led to him being waylaid by 'the Big Red Machine', but in action against chizelled powerhouse Race Steele tonight, Essa looked to rebound. The luchador struck with armdrags and a spinning headscissors to slow Steele down, when Steele rocked him with a powerslam. It would go short-lived, as Essa surrpised with a super kick, and followed up with the moonsault to pick up the victory. 3) Steve Blackman def. Doug Basham (4:15) [Broadcast on WWF Metal] 'The Lethal Weapon' was an expert of his craft in mixed martial arts and always looking to improve - and his victim of choice tonight was Doug Basham. The Columbus veteran of seven years surprised Blackman by jumping him from behind, but the quick wit of the heavy striker saw Blackman regain control with a swift pump kick. Blackman would drop Basham with a well-placed scissors kick to give him the three count. 4) Scotty 2 Hotty def. Chris Michaels (4:36) [Broadcast on WWF Metal]Scotty 2 Hotty was hours from another chance at X-Pac's WWF Light Heavyweight Championship tomorrow night on Sunday Night Heat, but first had to get through a grizelled veteran in Chris Michaels. Scotty danced his way into control off an wrist-clutched armdrag from the top rope, when Michaels caught Scotty with a spinebuster to gain the advantage. Michaels hammered on Scotty, but the crowd motivated Scotty to score the bulldog, and the Worm allowed him to take the win.
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 24, 2021 2:36:59 GMT -5
Sunday Night Heat - April 22, 2001 Gaylord Entertainment Center in Nashville, Tennessee Live on MTV - Live from WWF New YorkMatches taped on April 17, 2001
For years, they had been rivals with a burning desire to inflict damage on one another. Triple H had beaten Stone Cold Steve Austin to retain the WWF Championship at No Mercy 1999; when 'the Texas Rattlesnake' was ran down in the parking lot the next month at the Survivor Series, rumors spread like wildfire that 'the Game' was the man responsible. Austin even returned mid-rehabilitation to cost Triple H the WWF Championship. After becoming WWF Champion at WrestleMania X-Seven by beating The Rock, Stone Cold was gravitating into a dominant champion. Triple H was named the number one contender after defeating Kurt Angle last Monday on RAW is WAR - and now two egos were destined to meet for the richest prize in the business, at Backlash!
The opening video package brought us live to the Big Apple for Sunday Night Heat! A raucious crowd gathered in attendance in New York City, with seven days remaining until Backlash live on pay-per-view! Michael Cole and Tazz welcomed us to the show from the desk inside the entertainment complex, with a night of action in store. Cole lectured Tazz on his apparent "journalistic integrity" taken over the past week; him insulting WWF Divas Ambassador Debra only opening him up to Stone Cold Steve Austin leaving Tazz laying on RAW is WAR this past week. Tazz called 'the Texas Rattlesnake' paranoid and twisted since becoming WWF Champion, defending his own actions - that's how things were going to be going forward.
- TONIGHT: Big Show shows up live in the house at WWF New York, for an interview with Tazz.
- TONIGHT: Kane (c) vs Steve Blackman for the WWF Hardcore Championship.
- TONIGHT: X-Pac (c) vs Scotty 2 Hotty for the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship.
- TONIGHT: Al Snow appears live from WWF New York to preview the series premiere of WWF Tough Enough.
- 1) Rhyno def. Billy Gunn (3:33)'The One' Billy Gunn had continued to show complete support to his girlfriend the WWF Women's Champion Chyna, with the two victorious in intergender tag action against Crash and Molly Holly. On RAW is WAR Rhyno got even costing Jeff Hardy the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship, only to have Jeff cost him the WWF Hardcore Championship later that night. Rhyno got into a locker room scrap with the rainbow-haired Hardy on SmackDown, their paths more parallel by the night. 'The Man-Beast' charged the Gore from the bell, but Billy sidestepped and brought some heavy right hands only to encounter a spinebuster in response! The untamed animal toyed with Gunn, when Billy fired back with a dropkick. Rhyno hung Billy throat-first over the top rope, soon biting and choking Billy. Rhyno was detained by the official allowing a jackhammer to connect. Billy missed the Famouser, giving Rhyno time to strike with the Gore - to get another sudden win!
'The One' Billy Gunn had been claimed as Rhyno's latest victim, with 'the Man-Beast' on a foul-tempered hot streak. The animal stomped up and down the ring after the match, unsatisfied with the win. He had Jeff Hardy on the mind, after he'd cost Rhyno the WWF Hardcore Championship on RAW is WAR last week. Sizing Billy up, a second Gore took Billy inside out - leaving the boyfriend of the WWF Women's Champion laying once more! A dominant beast, Rhyno was rolling into RAW is WAR; as Billy's girlfriend Chyna prepared for a WWF Women's Championship defence tomorrow night.
- RAW IS WAR, TOMORROW NIGHT: Chyna hosts another open challenge to the WWF Divas locker room for the WWF Women's Championship.
- 'The Giant' wearing human clothes was a sight not many were familiar with, but Big Show had arrived at WWF New York! The 500-pounder had taken issue with Kurt Angle, who'd cost him a match with Jeff Hardy on SmackDown, and quickly came face to face with a backstage assistant wearing a shirt baring 'the Megastar's Three Is! Show paused him and asked him why he liked Kurt Angle, to which the staff member said he thought the Olympic Gold Medalist was cool. Show surveyed if he thought he was worthy of being number one contender, over somebody like the Big Show. Show implored the young man to take his time and consider it - he was over seven-feet tall after all. The backstage assistant fretted in worry and agreed Big Show was better than Angle - causing him to run! Show chuckled to himself and continued walking. What would 'the Giant' have to say to Tazz tonight?
The relationship between Kurt Angle and Stephanie McMahon had soured considerably in passing weeks, with 'the Megastar' focused on the WWF Championship contention rankings and 'the Billion Dollar Princess' out to avenge the betrayal of her former friend Trish Stratus. Steph had avoided her boyfriend's calls all weekend long, after announcing the match at Backlash against the WWF Diva on SmackDown the prior week. Finally, the Olympic Gold Medalist caught up with her to investigate this past week on RAW is WAR - where Stephanie continued to detest the tone of her boyfriend. Declaring that they should go on a break, Stephanie had decided to focus on her business with Trish and Vince McMahon. With heartbreak surely weighing on his mind, Kurt Angle prepared for competition with Triple H for the number one contender's spot later that night - when 'the Game' met his ex-wife Steph in a backstage corridor. Wishing him luck, who knew how Kurt was holding up!
- Backstage at the arena, the WWF Hardcore Champion Kane had ran into some opposition in the likes of Crash! The 24/7 rule was in full effect, with Kane driving the Holly Cousin head-first into a vending machine! His cousin Molly Holly watched from nearby, when 'the Big Red Machine advanced on her - buying Crash time to impact from behind with a steel shovel! Crash bent it over the monster's skull, but Kane would send Crash careening over a metal guardrail! Molly blinded Kane with the foam from a fire extinguisher, allowing Crash to come back with a CD player stereo to the side of the head of the champ! Kane didn't even falter, as Crash barraged him in punches. Suddenly, Essa Rios flew off of the guardrails with a dive intended for Kane - instead taking out Crash! Kane recovered and used a steel shovel on Essa's skull, leaving both he and Crash laying. Kane intimidated Molly away from him, as he picked his title up and left - the WWF Hardcore Champion a busy man!
- Michael Cole and Tazz sat at the desk inside WWF New York, to be joined by a special guest. The newly named head trainer of the new reality series WWF Tough Enough was introduced by Cole, and Al Snow made his way out to loud cheers from the crowd gathered closeby. Tazz groaned in detest, causing Al to crack a joke at Tazz's expense, regarding the Stunner from Stone Cold Steve Austin on RAW is WAR. Al talked about how great it was to be promoted at long last, in a role he had long wanted to do ever since Tough Enough was first thought up! Cole talked the premise of the show, with a series of successful applicants to be training for the prize: a contract to become a WWF Superstar. Al confirmed the details of the show, how they had received hundreds of applications and video tapes from aspiring prospects - but himself, Hardcore Holly, Jacqueline and Tori's task now included narrowing it down to thirteen contestants. Tazz barked at Al Snow, showing his bitterness about not being picked to be a Tough Enough trainer.
Gloating at how Al went months without winning a match, and how he ever got lucky enough to hold a title - Tazz claimed he would have been a much better trainer. Snow squabbled with Tazz, bringing Cole to segue to a video package Al had brought with him: showing off some of the more comedic and unsuccessful application tapes. A blooper reel aired, showing hopefuls tripping over the ropes, giving abysmal promos and needlessly making fools of themselves in the auditions, with an amusing soundtrack playing in the background. Back at the desk, Tazz talked about how soft Al was as a trainer, and compared him to the type of training Tazz would have the contestants doing week-in and week-out. This wasn't ballet in Tazz's mind, and Al was making it all about himself: what a prime-donna! Al argued back, commenting on his own lack of success - not having seen him in the gym in sometime! Cole plugged the series premiere, before taking us away from the argument.
- WWF TOUGH ENOUGH SEASON PREMIERE: June 21 on MTV.
- There was much pressure to be weighing on the new WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin, having come off of a hard-fought victory against Big Show last week on SmackDown - done with a little help from Kurt Angle. Six nights ago on RAW is WAR, with the impending break of his relationship with Stephanie McMahon sure to be on his mind, 'the Megastar' pleaded for the opportunity to be named number one contender. Interrupted by Triple H, 'the Game' claimed his own right to go to Backlash and fight 'the Texas Rattlesnake', and the main event was made official for later that night. It was a tough fight for both men, with neither wanting to miss out on the opportunity. In the end, it was the unexpected arrival of the Big Show that came to the ring and left Angle laying with the Chokeslam, allowing Triple H to come out victorious. Austin had hit ringside to take out 'the Giant', but in meeting his number one contender in the ring, Austin would leave 'the Game' laying with a Stunner - a reminder of what was ahead on 'the Cerebral Assassin's road to redemption!
The Radicalz were out to shed their skin and make new names for themselves coming away from WrestleMania. With Eddie Guerrero poised to get one over on Rob Van Dam, they comprised an ingenius plan to foil RVD and the Dudley Boyz last Monday night on RAW is WAR. With Spike Dudley trying to calm matters with Terri, whom he'd caught showering the week before, he gifted her a basket of muffins as an apology. 'The She-Devil' would use her boyfriend Perry Saturn's known anger problems to see 'Latino Heat' and Dean Malenko lock the WWF Tag Team Champions in a locker room backstage. RVD was getting the better of Eddie in their WrestleMania rematch in the ring, when the TitanTron showed Saturn bloodying Spike Dudley in the backstage area! With the Rings of Saturn applied, and soiled muffin pieces scattered around the floor, it paved the way for Eddie to score another ill-conceived victory - issuing 'the Whole Dam Show' his first loss since coming to the World Wrestling Federation!
The WWF Tag Team Champions the Dudley Boyz sent in a video response after what the Radicalz did on RAW is WAR. With Bubba Ray explaining Spike Dudley was receiving treatment after Perry Saturn's backstage assault, Bubba knew there was one way to settle this. Rob Van Dam would be fine, and he would sure as hell take care of Eddie Guerrero. After what the Radicalz had done, costing them their non-title match with X-Factor on SmackDown - the Dudleys were back to the drawing board. D-Von called out the jezebel Terri; how she had crafted this scheme. It seemed that 'the She-Devil' had forgotten who they were, and what they did. They were the damn Dudleys, the three-time champs - and at Backlash, they hoped Terri would bring her little boys on a leash. Bubba challenged Saturn and Dean Malenko to a Tables match for their titles, assuring everybody both of them would go through wood. But D-Von declared he would be bringing a third table with him: with Terri's name written all over it. All was fair in love and war - but comeuppance and vengeance was birthed in Dudleyville!
- Michael Cole stood on the stage inside WWF New York, as he announced another surprise guest present in the Big Apple tonight. Welcoming him out, Val Venis walked onto the stage! Having been absent with a torn groin over the past several months, Michael welcomed the sharply dressed 'Big Valbowski' back. Val chuckled, explaining his groin was still sore, but his love was still throbbing alive and well for the ladies of New York City. The girls in the crowd clamored, while Cole asked what was on Val's mind, with his return imminent. Val said he knew all of the ladies missed him, but he was back gracing their bedroom television screens starting tonight. Venis had been training hard for this comeback, not only looking to ravish women around the world - but to win titles and make results happen for 'the Valbowski'. Val said this time would be different, because he would be going from the top. For months, groin and all, he'd had a chip on his shoulder: but now, 'the Big Valbowski' was back, and the Money Shot would come with him wearing all the gold!
- Scotty 2 Hotty was warming up like only he knew how - dancing on the spot in the hallway - when approached by Jonathan Coachman. 'The Coach' wanted his thoughts on tonight's match with X-Pac for the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship, which Scotty commented on it being a rematch. He had hoped to walk out of Sunday Night Heat in Reliant Astrodome with the title, to be cheated by X-Pac. Tonight was his second chance, a former WWF Tag Team Champion with Grandmaster Sexay, but Scotty had never won singles gold in the World Wrestling Federation. Tonight he planned to change that, imploring X-Pac to be a respectable champ for once in his life and to keep his lapdogs Lance Storm and Justin Credible backstage. Up walked the same girl that met up with him on SmackDown, Victoria. Giddy with a cute smile, Victoria wanted to drop by and wish Scotty well in taking back the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship. Hugging him for good luck, Scotty's eyes popped out of his head! Scotty refocused, heading for the ring! 2) X-Pac (c) def. Scotty 2 Hotty to retain the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship (5:13)Scotty 2 Hotty was robbed of the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship thanks to X-Pac's cheating on Sunday Night Heat before WrestleMania X-Seven, but tonight was his second chance to win singles gold. X-Pac took Scotty's advice, with no X-Factor present tonight. Fast-paced chain-wrestling kicked things off, with X-Pac arrogant. Scotty outwitted with a series of armdrags, when a kip-up saw he and the champ at a stalemate! A low kick allowed X-Pac to gain an opening, hitting a legdrop. X-Pac danced mockingly taunting Scotty, lighting him up with kicks in the corner. Scotty dodged the Bronco Buster and hit a hurricanrana for a near fall, surprising with a bulldog to prelude the Worm - but X-Pac rolled to the floor! Scotty hit a suicide dive and brought X-Pac in, but the diving DDT was blocked by X-Pac clinging to the rope! The X-Factor went reversed into a victory roll for two, but the bulldog hit! The Worm was performed, when Justin Credible ran out to the apron. Lance Storm struck with the Super Kick, draping X-Pac over to retain the title!
There was no sincerity to the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion's actions, as X-Pac was helped to his feet by Lance Storm and Justin Credible. Retaining his title against Scotty 2 Hotty once again, X-Factor celebrated over the fallen Too Cool member's body in the middle of the ring while Victoria was shown frowning from a backstage monitor. Between the title defence tonight, and a non-title victory over WWF Tag Team Champions the Dudley Boyz on SmackDown, things were looking up for X-Factor.
- Big Show costing Kurt Angle the number one contende's match on RAW is WAR had not sat well with 'the Megastar' heading into SmackDown. Perhaps occupying himself after Stephanie McMahon announced a break in their relationship on Monday, Kurt Angle pled his case to the production crew and the referees on Thursday night. Arguing that he should be the number one contender to Stone Cold Steve Austin's WWF Championship, Angle soon went to the ring to seek the fans' reactions. Insulting 'the Giant' and making fun of him; soon enough Big Show stormed to the ring scaring Kurt away. As Big Show went at it with Jeff Hardy moments later, the Olympic Gold Medalist would be responsible for Jeff scoring the biggest upset of his career thus far - defeating the 500-pound mammoth! Show chased Angle backstage afterwards, with 'the World's Largest Athlete' out for Angle's neck.
In the arena, Big Show made his way onto the stage inside WWF New York to a rabid ovation. The former WWF Hardcore Champion was surprisingly beloved inside the entertainment complex, as 'the Giant' was well-dressed for the occasion! Moments to wait until his interview with Tazz, Show raised his gigantic hand to the cheering fans - we'd soon find out what was on the 500-pounder's mind!
Boasting a pinfall victory over X-Factor the week prior, Chris Jericho looked to better his standings in pursuing the WWF Championship this past week. Twice, Y2J had his matches re-assigned, with WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven granted more opportunities for the former rivals to team up - first successful against the Right to Censor on RAW is WAR; but then again opposite Backlash opponents Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H. Tensions rode high between both teams leading to the main event; Y2J furious at Raven wanting to be the hero for the first time in his life. Austin and Triple H had words; 'the Texas Rattlesnake' claiming he saw 'the Game' as a threat to be beaten. Regardless, both teams cooperated well in the main event, when out of nowhere the WWF Champion would drop Triple H with a second Stunner in one week! Putting Raven on top allowing he and Jericho to pick up a major victory, Stone Cold would leave no man in his way standing: next dropping Raven for good measure! How might Triple H respond, one week from their meeting at Backlash?
- Big Show looked enormous, sat on the couch on the stage of WWF New York with Tazz sat on a separate couch closeby. The co-host welcomed 'the Giant' to the entertainment complex, coming off what had to be a massively disappointing loss to Stone Cold Steve Austin for the WWF Championship - and then Jeff Hardy this past week on SmackDown! Tazz asked how badly it had to sting to lose out on the number one contender's match on RAW is WAR, bringing Show to warn Tazz before continuing to tread lightly. He'd heard what 'the Human Suplex Machine' was capable of coming out with; and he might be smiling now, but when it came to Kurt Angle's charades he wasn't afraid to bust some heads. Tazz wanted to understand 'the Giant's motives for Angle, reminding him of the opportunities he had given to him thanks to the Coalition. Show confirmed how true it was - Angle afforded so many opportunities for him in the Coalition. But last he checked, he was always the most loyal member of the group!
Big Show reminded Tazz that Edge and Christian were always off scheming something; Chris Benoit was out for the top spot Kurt had; and Stephanie and Shane McMahon were caught up in the McMahon Family drama. Big Show stuck by 'the Megastar' through thick and thin, but he was never afforded any opportunities, even when he asked. It was besides the point as far as he was concerned: the reason he wasn't WWF Champion right now, was because of one man - Kurt Angle. Tazz tried defending the Olympic Gold Medalist, mentioning the break from Stephanie McMahon; and how cheated he felt out of a WWF Championship shot, thanks to Big Show! Show chuckled, also remembering how this time last year it was Kurt Angle that started all of this: when he broke his ankle with a metal door. Show was on the shelf for months, because of Kurt - and now, maybe it was time for Kurt's receipt. Show brought up how Kurt liked to talk a big game, being 'the Megastar' and the Olympic Gold Medalist - but he wasn't seven-foot-two, 500 pounds! Angle couldn't outwrestle him, but he could try.
Tazz brought up Kurt Angle's insults from SmackDown, where he called Big Show lazy, fat and pathetic. Big Show grinned as he asked Tazz how much he enjoyed this. He might have been all of those things, but he was still 'the World's Largest Athlete'. He was called 'the Big Nasty B*stard' for a reason - because he might be chill now, but if Kurt dared to step up to him again, he would find a world of hurt come his way! For too long, Big Show had sat idly by - a former WWF Champion in his own right - and his chase would not end here. Big Show was calling out Kurt Angle to a match tomorrow night on RAW is WAR, and dared the Olympian to show himself so that they could have themselves a little talk! Show came to his feet as an intimidated Tazz led the fans in giving 'the Giant' a big ovation. He was smiling now, but tomorrow against Kurt - who knew what mood the big man would be in!
- RAW IS WAR, TOMORROW NIGHT: Big Show calls out Kurt Angle.
- As slippery as they came, the WCW Owner Shane McMahon had presented himself to being a thorn in WWF Commissioner William Regal's side of late. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' was harshly urged by Vince McMahon to ensure Shane was banished from the arena, only for Shane to infiltrate the building on two separate occasions! Shane arrived through the crowd on RAW is WAR, with his WWF talent contract in hand. Still active, an infuriated Englishman arrived with a security team present to escort Shane away. Instead, Shane outsmarted Regal; the WCW Owner once again getting one over on him! The Chairman threatened Regal's job if he didn't fix things by the end of the week, and on SmackDown the Commissioner responded: challenging Shane to a match at Backlash! The WCW Owner's WWF contract was on the line, and Shane accepted with a smile. A gentleman's handshake was offered by Shane, and when William responded he was met with a ferocious slap. Regal was besmirched, while Shane remained confident - heading to Backlash!
- Backstage at the arena, Steve Blackman finished warming up ahead of the main event. With his martial arts sticks in either hand, 'the Lethal Weapon' was prepared for the monstrous task ahead of him. Set to challenge Kane for the WWF Hardcore Championship - the main event was up next.
Stephanie McMahon came to SmackDown expecting to have her match with Trish Stratus set in stone. A contract signing was to take place with her former friend, when father Vince McMahon declared that he would moderate the match whilst planning to do things "his" way. The Chairman had overseen the contract's writing and added a stipulation: forbidding both Stephanie and Trish from laying a finger on the other between then and Backlash. After some harsh words between the two former friends, Stephanie blindly signed the contract and laid into her Dad verbally, for all that he had done. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' was sickened by Vince and Trish's relationship - but shockingly, Trish would blast Steph with the contract! Pummeling her in front of her own father, Trish's lover did not approve - until he read that Trish had not yet signed the contract! Steph was checked on by officials, as well as her distanced brother Shane McMahon after the attack, but she was determined to do it all alone. There was hell to pay for Trish Stratus, come Backlash!
- 3) Kane (c) def. Steve Blackman to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship (4:17)'The Big Red Machine' was fighting off all competition, with a win against Rhyno last Monday night on RAW is WAR. Earlier tonight, he was ambushed by Crash, Molly Holly and Essa Rios, but still came out on top. With the 24/7 rule in effect, 'the Lethal Weapon' jumped Kane on the rampway, using his martial arts sticks. Leveling the monster with combinations, Kane grabbed him by the throat and barraged with throat thrusts! Blackman rebounded with a drop toe hold sending the champ into the steel steps. He throttled with body blows, a martial arts kick off the top rope getting a near fall. Dumping a trash can over Kane's head, Blackman rattled with kendo stick shots, only to runn into a big boot! Kane crushed the can with a sidewalk slam, and landed the flying clothesline hit! Kane tried the Chokeslam when Essa Rios hit the ring - springboarding into a Powerbomb from the champ! Blackman nailed the pump kick, but the guillotine choke went reversed into a strong one-handed Chokeslam - to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship!
Against all odds, 'the Big Red Machine's show of dominance was still on display. The WWF Hardcore Champion snatched his title from the referee before dropping it at his feet. Setting off the pyrotechnics after raising his hands high, he surveyed the damage done to both Steve Blackman and Essa Rios. Who could stop the seven-foot monster's reign, while Backlash awaited only seven days away!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 29, 2021 15:50:29 GMT -5
WWF LIVE! - April 21 - 22, 2001 Waco & Tyler, Texas; Albuquerque, New Mexico April 21, 2001 - Heart O' Texas Fair Complex in Waco, TX:
- Scotty 2 Hotty def. D-Lo Brown
- Lita def. Molly Holly
- Jeff Hardy def. Crash
- WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin def. Commissioner William Regal
- Rhyno def. Taka Michinoku
- Kane (c) def. Steve Blackman to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship.
- Rob Van Dam def. Eddie Guerrero
- The Dudley Boyz (c) def. Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko in a Tables match to retain the WWF Tag Team Championship.
April 21, 2001 - Oil Palace in Tyler, TX:- X-Pac (c) def. Spike Dudley to retain the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship.
- Test def. Albert
- Val Venis def. The Brooklyn Brawler
- K-Kwik def. Mark Henry
- Trish Stratus def. Jacqueline
- WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho def. Kurt Angle and Big Show
- Chris Benoit def. Billy Gunn
- Edge and Christian def. The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan, X-Factor & Kaientai in a four-corner elimination match
- Bradshaw (c) def. Commissioner William Regal in a Kiss the Flag match to retain the WWF European Championship.
April 22, 2001 - Tingley Coliseum in Albuquerque, NM:
- Val Venis and Kaientai def. The Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry
- K-Kwik def. Crash
- X-Factor def. Jerry Lynn and Essa Rios
- Big Show def. Kurt Angle by count-out
- WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H and The Undertaker def. Commissioner William Regal, Chris Benoit and Rhyno
- Jeff Hardy def. X-Pac (c) by disqualification; X-Pac retained the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship.
- WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho def. Edge and Christian
- Rob Van Dam def. Eddie Guerrero
- The Dudley Boyz (c) def. Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko in a Tables match to retain the WWF Tag Team Championship.
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Aug 31, 2021 15:25:42 GMT -5
RAW is WAR - April 23, 2001 Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado Live on TNN
With the stage set in motion for Triple H to challenge Stone Cold Steve Austin for the WWF Championship at Backlash, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' immediately asserted dominance with a Stunner at the end of the number one contender's match with Kurt Angle on RAW is WAR. On SmackDown, the two were forced to team up one more time against the unlikely forces of WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho, where in a shocking turn of events Austin would turn on 'the Game', and leave him laying courtesy of a second Stunner. Raven would score a huge upset as a result, but it would be Stone Cold standing tall - leaving Raven laying as well. Maybe Austin was paranoid, as he saw a threat in Triple H!
The opening video package aired, cutting to the pyrotechnics of the Pepsi Center. The roar of the crowd saw RAW is WAR start the first of two straight nights in Denver, Colorado. Live and sold-out, Jim Ross and Paul Heyman welcomed us to RAW - less than a week remaining until Backlash!
- TONIGHT: Raven (c) vs Triple H for the WWF Intercontinental Championship.
- TONIGHT: Shane McMahon vs TBA
- TONIGHT: Trish Stratus vs Lita
- The lights went out, and a gong was heard. Echoing throughout the Pepsi Center heard Limp Bizkit's "Rollin'" take the building by storm. After returning to cost Chris Benoit the WWF European Championship against Bradshaw on SmackDown, out walked the Undertaker. In denim, leather and sunglasses, 'the American Badass' walked to the ring without his motorcycle. As the fans in Denver applauded the Undertaker, he graced the microphone. Talking about the less being said about a few weeks away, in case anybody hadn't heard the news - it was because of a guy called Chris. Chris thought that by hurting 'the Deadman', it would humanize him. Clearly, this Chris guy had never heard of 'the Deadman' before. This 'Deadman' had been leader of the pack, and ruler of the yard for quite some time - over ten years to be exact - and he had seen all the big boys come and go. Yet he still remained, and he didn't let anybody go after him without a receipt. Undertaker pulled up a replay on the TitanTron of the parking lot assault three weeks ago - where a steel wrench shot to the leg would shatter the Undertaker's kneecap, making it difficult for him to walk away unscathed.
The Undertaker leant on the ropes in the ring, stroking his goatee. 'The American Badass' didn't mind seeing the footage again, because he'd been doing this for such a long time. Everybody went by, people came and went - but he stayed here, because the World Wrestling Federation was his yard. The Undertaker called himself 'the Big Dog' that ran the yard, and when it came to scrappy fellas like Chris Benoit - he could only dare him to come and try do it again. Like a man, 'the Deadman' challenged 'the Rabid Wolverine' to take his beating like a man, and that if Benoit didn't show his face - Undertaker would have no choice but hunt him down. Chris Benoit answered the challenge, walking out to the rampway with a cocky smirk on his face. 'The Wolverine' showed no fear, as he climbed through the ropes and stood toe-to-toe with an impressed Undertaker. Benoit snickered as he acknowledged the knee brace on Undertaker's leg - he couldn't be serious. The Canadian knew the damage that had been done to him. It had to be burning through his leg right now, feeling his kneecap all shaken around, rattling inside. It had to be a miracle for the Undertaker to even walk.
The smile on Chris Benoit's face soon faded. The fact the Undertaker could still stand - that told 'the Rabid Wolverine' his work wasn't done. 'The Wolverine' demanded more footage to be shown, taking us back to the parking lot scene the night after WrestleMania. Benoit commented on Undertaker's motorcycle - as he kicked it onto 'the Deadman's leg - adding insult to injury. Back live, Benoit spoke of how many people had to be afraid of the veteran - but Benoit was living proof, here to prove him wrong. Benoit wasn't afraid fo the Undertaker, and Undertaker chuckled. Telling Benoit he had big balls for a wolverine, Undertaker planned to make Benoit famous! Immediately striking out 'the Wolverine', Benoit tried returning the favor. A clothesline sent Benoit reeling to the floor, where Undertaker followed. Continuing the fight, Benoit would respond sending 'the American Badass' crashing into the steel steps! Over the step, Benoit applied a leglock bringing Undertaker agony over his braced knee! Referees rushed ringside to break up the fight, as Undertaker kicked his way free. Benoit was restrained; Undertaker shoved officials aside - these two men would not stop!
- Triple H was seen arriving at the Pepsi Center. Adorned in denim with his suitcase in tow, Michael Cole ran up to 'the Game' to ask about Stone Cold Steve Austin giving him not one but two Stunners last week on both RAW is WAR and SmackDown. Triple H ignored the line of questioning - he demanded to know where 'the Texas Rattlesnake's locker room was. He expected this from the WWF Champion, and while he was here to take the WWF Intercontinental Championship from Raven tonight - he was also here to kick Austin's ass! There was no waiting for Backlash as far as 'the Cerebral Assassin' was concerned, as Cole directed Triple H to find 'the Rattlesnake!'
Following a replay of what transpired between the Undertaker and Chris Benoit, Trish Stratus was getting ready for her match with Lita - in Commissioner William Regal's office! 'The Goodwill Ambassador' sat behind his desk perturbed, questioning why Trish was so determined to get ready for her match in his room. Trish giggled as she continued bending over in front of him, stretching. She liked it in there. She also wanted to surprise Vince McMahon with her ring outfit. Trish turned to William, flirtatiously asking who he had in mind for Shane McMahon's opponent tonight. Trish was dying to know what the kiniving Englishman had in store for the WCW Owner. Suddenly, the Undertaker stormed in, tossing a case against the wall! 'The American Badass' slammed his fist against William's desk, demanding a match with Chris Benoit at Backlash! Regal would not in good conscience allow it, noticing 'the Deadman's pained leg. Grabbing Regal by the collar, Undertaker demanded it. Regal caved, accepting the request - but it was up to him if 'the Rabid Wolverine' crippled him again in six days. Undertaker glared at Trish on the way out, who in turn laughed at the fear in the Commissioner's eyes!
- BACKLASH, THIS SUNDAY: The Undertaker vs Chris Benoit.
- Edge and Christian made their way down to the ring, coming days after defeating Kaientai on SmackDown. The brothers from Toronto were met with some cheers, until Christian grabbed the microphone and greeted the people. Immediately targeting fans of the Colorado Avalanche, whom he claimed wouldn't have a chance in hell at winning the NHL playoffs this year, Edge and Christian did however have a similar goal in mind: recapturing the WWF Tag Team Championships for a fourth time in their illustrious tag team career. Edge joked about a little birdie telling them that of all the teams in the World Wrestling Federation out there - it was Raven and Chris Jericho that were next in line for a shot at the Dudley Boyz! Edge thought Kaientai were a couple of goofballs - Raven and Y2J were a real motley crue! Christian made fun of the odourous Raven, and planned to slap the conditioner out of Jericho's hair one-on-one tonight.
The countdown interrupted the former WWF Tag Team Champions, and out stepped Chris Jericho himself. Demanding Edge and Christian to shut the hell up, Y2J reminded the people of Denver that this was RAW is Jericho, and nobody wanted to hear from a couple of reekazoids like them! Edge and Christian were strongly offended by Y2J using their coined term against them, as Y2J ran a survey - on who the true 'Sexy Beast' was! Was Edge and Christian? Or was it Y2J? The fans lit up for Jericho, bringing him to rest his case. Unluckily for Christian, he was about to get his ass kicked - in front of all the Jerichoholics in Colorado tonight! Hitting the ring, Y2J planned to go it alone.1) Chris Jericho def. Christian (w/Edge) (3:46)As his tag team partner Raven prepared to defend the WWF Intercontinental Championship against the very man he pinned on SmackDown, Triple H, Y2J looked to better their unlikely combination's standings in the tag team contention ranks against the former WWF Tag Team Champion, Christian. Jericho struck with a flying forearm and a spinning wheel kick, when he sent Christian into Edge on the apron for a roll-up, and on a second attempt Jericho would strike his older brother with a springboard dropkick! The inverted DDT from Christian was the differencemaker, and he pummeled on Jericho before dumping him outside. Edge attacked Jericho behind the referee's back on the floor, while back inside Christian applied an armbar. Y2J fought back amidst chants, only to be dragged back to the canvas by the hair! Y2J soon caught Christian off the middle rope with a dropkick, and a missile dropkick soon gave him a near fall. As the official attended to Christian, Edge hit the ring - but Jericho leapfrogged the spear! Clotheslining him to the floor, Y2J set himself up for the Unprettier, but Jericho would send him off the ropes - into the Walls of Jericho, forcing Christian into submisssion!
Chris Jericho released the Walls of Jericho, coming out on top against one-half of the former WWF Tag Team Champions. Christian laid prone, but Y2J's celebration would go short-lived as Edge would jump him from behind! Putting the boots to him, Edge would be joined by Christian. Jericho put up some fight, but the numbers advantage was too much! With no sign of Y2J's recent ally Raven, Jericho tried applying the Walls on Edge, when dropped dead with Christian's Unprettier! Leaving the ring, the brothers grabbed steel chairs from the timekeeper's area, before promptly stalking Jericho. With the weapons in hand, a Conchairto struck Jericho's ribs, leaving him for dead in the ring. Edge and Christian left with their heads high, motioning for the gold.
- The Radicalz were full of life in the dressing room, when intruded by Michael Cole. He asked Terri about her role in the set-up that struck the Dudley Boyz and Rob Van Dam last week, when Perry Saturn pointed his finger at Cole. Eddie Guerrero calmed his buddy down, before talking about denying any tips from 'the She-Devil' last week. The facts remained in the results - Perry and Dean Malenko had their shot at the WWF Tag Team Championships come Backlash. Eddie got to beat Rob Van Dam last week, and little Spike Dudley got to spend a couple nights laid up in the hospital! 'Latino Heat' insincerely sent his best wishes to Spike, but with due respect - all was fair in love and war. Eddie said they were back to what they set out to do: and retain their dignity. Tonight would see a tune-up match for Saturn and Malenko against RVD, and a partner of his choosing. Mocking Van Dam for not having any pals named "D-Von", "Bubba Ray" or "Spike", Eddie hoped RVD would find some friends - or else he was in big, big trouble tonight!
- TONIGHT: Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko vs Rob Van Dam and TBA.
The WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven sat on a travel case, speaking to his girl Tori. With the title on his lap, Raven voiced his joy in how everything was coming together. With a big smile, Raven looked at himself in a hand mirror, speaking about how thanks to Chris Jericho - he was becoming a fan favorite! Raven confessed to being self-aware enough to know not everybody liked him, but the truth was he was winning the people over, all thanks to their team. Tonight, now he had the opportunity to meet the famous Triple H. It didn't bother him he had to put the title on the line against the man he beat - because for the first time in his life, he was the hero of the story! Tonight, for a second time in a week - without Stone Cold Steve Austin's help - he would beat 'the Game' and garner the astounding ovation he'd sought after for years. In rushed a stage assistant, who frantically let Raven know that Chris Jericho had been injured by Edge and Christian's in-ring ambush. Immediately, Raven jumped off the crates - heading for the trainer's office.
- 'The One' Billy Gunn made his arrival to the Pepsi Center, receiving a positive ovation from the capacity crowd. Strutting to the ring in a cropped shirt of his girlfriend 'the Ninth Wonder of the World', Billy thanked Denver for coming tonight to see the finest WWF Women's Champion unload another butt-whipping! Billy rallied the crowd for his girlfriend - the Playboy covergirl, Hollywood's next breakout star; 'the Role Model' to young women everywhere, and the undisputed WWF Women's Champion Chyna! Climbing into the ring, the champ talked about the fame being champion had gifted her already - it had afforded her many things, and it was a dream come true. Tonight she was ready to open up another challenge. Anybody in the WWF Divas locker room that thought they had what it took to step up to the plate and bat against her, Chyna ushered them out, when interrupted by Jacqueline. The veteran former champion climbed into the ring, standing opposite Chyna. Snatching the microphone, she applauded Chyna on beating Ivory - and how she was a credit to young women everywhere. Yet it didn't change the fact: that Jackie thought Chyna was nothing but a b*tch!2) Chyna (w/Billy Gunn) (c) def. Jacqueline to retain the WWF Women's Championship (2:52)She'd trounced Ivory at WrestleMania to become WWF Women's Champion, and since defeated Molly Holly to defend it. She'd appeared on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and powerbombed Crash, but tonight was here to open another challenge - answered by Jacqueline. The fighting words from Jackie saw Chyna smile as they locked up. Chyna overpowered early, surprising with armdrags and an armbar. Jackie made to the ropes early, when the challenger unloaded with haymakers. Cornering Chyna, Jackie launched shoulder thrusts when the champ rammed her with knee lifts! Dumping Jackie across the ring with ease, Chyna caught her with a military press slam for a near fall. Jacqueline took her down with the drop toe hold into an elbow drop, when a suplex gave her a two count. Jacqueline followed suit with ten punches in the corner, but 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' countered: with the Powerbomb out of the corner, to retain the WWF Women's Championship!
'The Ninth Wonder of the World' had beaten Jacqueline in her second successful title defence. With another dominant showing in an open challenge, Chyna would have her hand raised by 'the One' Billy Gunn, who proudly handed her the WWF Women's Championship. Down the rampway came Crash forcing Molly Holly by hand behind him however, and Crash looked to ambush Billy from behind! His girlfriend saw him coming and immediately pulled Holly's fist away. Billy dazed Crash with a big right hand, leading to Chyna giving Crash another powerbomb! Molly watched in astonishment from ringside, as Chyna and Billy stood tall over her cousin. Passing as Chyna left, she exchanged smiles with Molly, who slid into the ring to check on Crash.
- Shane McMahon had the WCW colors of white and red on his baseball jersey. Bouncing around the locker room, Jonathan Coachman hoped to get a brief word from the WCW Owner. Asking him whom he thought Commissioner William Regal had lined up to take him on tonight, Shane chuckled. He knew 'the Goodwill Ambassador' just wanted to intimidate him into calling off the match at Backlash. Regal would love to see Shane just head home to Greenwich, so he could work on WCW. But why couldn't a guy like him do both? Shane said he was calm and not worried, and said on Sunday he was going to get the drop on William Regal one more time - which way did he go?
Shane reminded the Coach he was no slouch - he beat his father at WrestleMania - when in walked Vince McMahon himself! Snarling at him, the Chairman stared down his son tensely, when the WWF Owner wished him luck tonight. Vince said he would sure as hell need it. If Shane thought beating him in the Street Fight was hard work, he had no idea what he was in for tonight. Vince grimaced, wondering what shape Shane might leave in tonight, headed into Backlash. Who knew if Shane could even compete in six days, with his WWF Superstar contract at stake. Vince smiled, fantasizing about Shane's help. Shane grinned, telling Vince he hoped Trish would be fit to compete too - after what Stephanie did to her come Backlash!
Chris Jericho contained his agony as the physician bandaged his ribs in the trainer's office. In walked the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven to explain himself, apologizing for not having his back. Y2J immediately grunted to his feet, getting in his tag team partner's face. Calling him self-asborbed, Jericho knew exactly what Raven's ploy was. His ribs were killing him, but for a guy so obsessed with teaming with him and trying to be his best buddy - he really dropped the ball. Edge and Christian left him laying on live television, with the whole world to see - and Raven was off thinking about how good it will be for him to face Triple H tonight. Raven hoped to plead with Jericho, who simply turned his back on him. In leaving, Y2J told Raven that if he didn't see through him before - he sure as hell did now. Y2J left, leaving Raven alone with the trainer. With a sigh, he angrily suggested the trainer not look even look at him.
- 3) Rhyno def. Test (3:12)While 'the Man-Beast' was a force to be reckoned with, Jeff Hardy was a star on the rise in his own right. He proved to Rhyno last week that he was not to be messed with, and neither was Test. Rhyno and Test duked it out as the bell sounded, with the big man using his size as an advantage with a sidewalk slam. Rhyno would surprise with a flapjack, before choking and biting the Canadian illegally against the ropes. The action reaching ringside, Rhyno hammered Test by the announce table, when Test struck back with a gorilla press jaw-first over the desk! Back inside, Test scored a tilt-a-whirl slam for a near fall, soon following up with the gutrwrench powerbomb. Test was pushing Rhyno to the limit, when D-Lo Brown and Albert arrived on the rampway to loud boos. Test was distracted, jawjacking with his nemeses - giving Rhyno all the time in the world to strike with the Gore! Nobody got up from it, and Test was no exception.
'The Man-Beast' had pulled off another dominant showing against the stallion Test, but it came with helping part to play from D-Lo Brown and Albert. They laughed at the Canadian's expense in leaving for the backstage area, when Rhyno decided to continue his assault on Test! Mauling him with rights and lefts, suddenly Jeff Hardy surprised Rhyno out of nowhere with right hands! Rhyno shoved Jeff down twice, just for one-half of the Hardy Boyz to bounce back in retaliation. Rhyno missed the Gore, when Jeff struck with the spinout enzuigiri.
Jeff mounted Rhyno and throttled him with right hands, who was able to shove him off with a spinebuster. Rhyno lined Jeff up for the Gore again - just for Jeff to sidestep, sending Rhyno careening to the floor! Rhyno backed off, when Jeff challenged him to come and fight him! As Rhyno backed up the rampway in rage, Jeff confronted Paul Heyman at the announce table. Jeff demanded Paul talk sense to Rhyno - because he wanted to kick his ass this Sunday at Backlash! Heyman professed innocence, as Jeff shoved Paul down to his chair!
- Triple H continued his hunt of the WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin. Six days away from their WWF Championship confrontation at Backlash, 'the Game' came across 'the Texas Rattlesnake's dressing room. Bracing for entrance, Triple H would bust the door open - only to find nobody inside! Triple H surveyed the room with caution, finding Austin's bag and clothes - but no 'Rattlesnake'. The challenger cursed under his breath, sure to continue the search.
Lacing the bralette of her silver ring gear, Trish Stratus was getting ready for competition in Commissioner William Regal's office. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' shielded his eyes to Trish's pouting face. She called "Willy" no fun. In walked Big Show to Regal's delight, but Show demanded to know why William had called for him. Everybody knew he was going to call Kurt Angle out to the ring tonight, but Regal informed 'the Giant' that 'the Megastar' wasn't in Denver! Instead, William had a new task for the 500-pounder: the task of taking on Shane McMahon tonight! Show was perplexed, when Regal began motivating him: nobody was bigger, more dangerous and more intimidating than he was. He was a monster, and more importantly he was right - there was more to the Big Show than what Angle had to say. Show was intrigued, when Regal added a stipulation to the match with Shane tonight - a no-disqualification match. Show warned Regal he wasn't happy to do the bidding of a guy like Regal, but he'd do it - in exchange for a match at Backlash, against Kurt Angle! Regal traded the favor, making it official!
- TONIGHT: Big Show vs Shane McMahon in a No-Disqualification match.
BACKLASH, THIS SUNDAY: Big Show vs Kurt Angle
- Rob Van Dam meditated on the floor of the dressing room area, when Michael Cole entered the room looking to get word from 'the Whole Dam Show' - who might his tag team partner be tonight? RVD was mindblown by Cole's question, as if he would ever tell Cole. That was the entire point of a mystery partner - nobody knew, but he and Rob Van Dam! Pointing at himself with his thumbs, Van Dam cooly said he knew what to expect of the Radicalz. He'd seen it time and time again, it got old fast. He even experienced it last week, but it was no biggie - besides what happened to Spike Dudley. The Dudley Boyz had that under control, but he had bigger fish to fry - and tonight, he and his buddy would take care of Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko. Adding that if Eddie Guerrero was feeling froggy, he could show up too. RVD confidently vowed to kick 'Latino Heat' harder than he did at WrestleMania. RVD didn't understand why people were so worried - everything was cool when you were Rob Van Dam!
- The WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin walked the halls of the Pepsi Center, when he bumped into Tazz. With an obnoxious grin on 'the Human Suplex Machine's face, Tazz told Austin to his face that he was just the guy he wanted to see. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' scowled at the man that verbally harrassed his wife Debra on Sunday Night Heat over a week ago, Asking Tazz if getting his ass Stunnered last week wasn't enough, Stone Cold recited that he was in no mood for Tazz's cute little remarks, and wasn't afraid to open up a can of whoopass right there, in the hallway! Tazz told Austin that he didn't have time for the smarmy trash talk Austin had to say either. Advising the champ save it for Triple H, Tazz explained 'the Game's hunt for 'the Rattlesnake' - how he'd been to his dressing room and everything. Tazz told Steve he was the biggest sucker he'd ever seen, and if he wasn't careful: Austin might get his ass beaten! Tazz left, but the burning rage fuelled Austin visibly.
- In the arena, Vince McMahon made an epic strut out to the Pepsi Center. Loud boos filled the building, as the Chairman joyously waltzed down the rampway. With moments to wait until Shane McMahon's bout with Big Show in a No-Disqualification match - designed by Commissioner William Regal - the WWF Owner took a seat beside Jim Ross and Paul Heyman! He wanted to get a front row seat to his son's humiliation and domination courtesy of 'the Giant'. Cutting backstage, Big Show walked fearlessly down the hallway. Heading to the ring having been assigned the task by 'the Goodwill Ambassador' himself, 'the Giant' clearly had the absent Kurt Angle on his mind. Meanwhile, Shane McMahon could be seen bouncing the backstage hall. Shadow-boxing in preparation, Shane was ready for Big Show - one-on-one, up next!
With Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko scheduled for tag team action with Rob Van Dam and a mystery partner tonight, Terri coldly criticized the make-up lady Janet's work on her and demanded she start from scratch. 'The She-Devil' brattily explained how she was Perry's girlfriend, and the starlet of the Radicalz - she needed to look better than any of the other WWF Divas walking around here. Janet bit her lip and turned her back to set things up. It bought enough time for the Dudley Boyz to arrive - Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley grabbing Terri by the hair! Bubba suggested they take a little trip to Dudleyville, as the WWF Tag Team Champions carried Terri away kicking and screaming!
- 4) Shane McMahon vs Big Show in a No-Disqualification match ended in a no contest (4:25)Shane McMahon may have relinquished all authoritative powers he had when he became WCW Owner, but he still had a WWF Superstar contract - one that would be at stake at Backlash against Commissioner William Regal. Big Show was assigned this task, with 'the Giant' exchanging favors for a match with Kurt Angle this Sunday. Vince McMahon on commentary could not wait to witness this mismatch take place. Shane O'Mac bombarded with a baseball slide before the bell, putting up a fight, to be sent into the steel steps. Show chopped him against the ring post twice - when Shane ducked! The 500-pounder caught the ring post, giving Shane time to strike the legs with a kendo stick.
In the ring, Shane chopped Show down to size with it, when a gorilla press slam equalized the WCW Owner. Show manhandled Shane, who tried fighting back with foam from a fire extinguisher! Shane used trash can shots to stun his opponent, when a big boot dropped Shane! Big Show delivered a hellacious Chokeslam, only Vince demanded more. Tossing Shane to the floor and exchanging words with Vince, Shane got a second breath - using a television monitor, knocking Show senseless! With Show prone on the announce table, Shane flipped his father the bird: and headed to the top rope. Shane was ready to drop a diving elbow drop, but Commissioner William Regal hit the ring - shoving Shane off the top and through the announce table!
Shane McMahon was fearless in his attempts at instilling doubt in Vince McMahon, William Regal and even Big Show - but tonight, the WWF Commissioner had just sent Shane to the depths of hell! An awestruck Vince McMahon bared witness several feet away, as 'the Goodwill Ambassador' was given further orders by the Chairman. With Shane O'Mac knocked senseless, Regal tossed the WCW Owner's carcass into the ring and clamped on the Regal Stretch! There was no oneupmanship from Shane tonight, as a grittingly hungry Englishman had Shane out cold in the hold. As Vince narrated his son's beating, 'the Goodwill Ambassador' was here to ensure Shane didn't even make it to Backlash.
Into the ring stomped Big Show, who William Regal relinquished the Regal Stretch on Shane McMahon for. Issuing further orders for 'the Giant', the 500-pounder looked around at Denver in hesitance - before grabbing the WWF Commissioner by the throat! Big Show answered to no man anymore, preparing to take Regal for a ride with the Chokeslam. Suddenly, Kurt Angle hit the ring - chop blocking the big man! 'The Megastar' was claimed to not be in Denver tonight at all, but with six days to wait until the match with Big Show, the Olympic Gold Medalist would sink in the Ankle Lock! Show roared in pain, when Shane summoned the life to pick up a kendo stick - to send Angle and Regal packing! Vince cursed his son's name, as Show let out a roar and decided to further go after the Olympian!
Following a replay of Shane McMahon's death-defying fall through the announce table, and the alliance of Shane and Big Show uniting against Kurt Angle and Commissioner William Regal; we returned live to a scene in the parking lot! Kurt Angle was on the move again, backing away frantically from the furious Big Show! 'The Giant' wanted to call 'the Megastar' out all weekend long, and now had six days to wait for Backlash - only the 500-pounder didn't want to wait. Angle darted from Show in reverse, soon tripping over himself. Show closed in on a panicked Olympic Gold Medalist, who made it off to his rental car in the nick of time - only the car door was locked! Kurt searched frantically for his keys, when Show waved them in his face from afar. Angle instead opted to run away, and as Show approached the car he let out a huge warcry. If he couldn't get Angle, he would take his anger out on something else: his rental car! Using superhuman strength, 'the Giant' would furiously tip his car over - onto its back! There was unmitigated power from Big Show, six days from meeting Angle at Backlash!
- 5) WWF European Champion Bradshaw and Rob Van Dam def. Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko (w/Eddie Guerrero) (4:05)The Radicalz had their match set for Backlash against the Dudley Boyz, but first had a score to settle with Eddie Guerrero's rival Rob Van Dam. Perry Saturn was visibly distressed over Terri's absence, having been kidnapped by the WWF Tag Team Champions backstage. RVD did not come single-handed, instead bringing out a hired gun in WWF European Champion Bradshaw. The two stormed the ring for a four-man brawl, soon breaking down to Bradshaw nailing a fallaway slam on Saturn. Slugging it out with Dean Malenko, Van Dam made the tag with shoulder thrusts, and a handspring into the monky flip! The Rolling Thunder connected, but a distraction from 'Latino Heat' saw Malenko connect with a backbreaker.
Saturn and Malenko double-teamed 'the Whole Dam Show', but Van Dam hung in there. A roundhouse kick to Saturn saw Bradshaw make the tag - moving anything in his way! A powerslam struck Malenko, when RVD came in. Eddie crotched Rob off the split-legged moonsault, allowing Saturn to deliver the fisherman suplex - but the TitanTron pulled up the Dudley Boyz threatening Terri in the loading dock area of the building! With 'the She-Devil' by the hair, Bubba reminded the Radicalz that all was fair in love and war, but everything was fair in Dudleyville. The camera panned to show D-Von beneath them, setting up tables! Saturn was gobsmacked, when Bradshaw struck with the Clothesline From Hell to pick up the win!
To the chagrin of Eddie Guerrero at ringside, Rob Van Dam and his mystery partner - WWF European Champion Bradshaw - had come out on top! 'Latino Heat' exchanged words with RVD as he stood on the apron, soon leading to the Texan raising 'the Whole Dam Show's hand in victory. Guerrero and Dean Malenko checked on Perry Saturn, who had to be despondant over the Dudley Boyz kidnapping girlfriend Terri! After the Radicalz had set up Spike Dudley, as well as RVD last week - payback was a b*tch!
- Lita stretched on the floor of Team Xtreme's locker room, prepared to engage in another match with Trish Stratus. In walked her boyfriend's brother Jeff Hardy, still fired up from the encounter with Rhyno earlier tonight. Jeff talked about the match being made official - he had the chance to slay the animal that put Matt Hardy on the shelf this Sunday at Backlash. Lita was stoked to see it, as Jeff couldn't believe this all transpired. Lita said that 'the Man-Beast' had to be stopped, having just spoken to Matt earlier today - and he was loving every second of what Jeff was doing to him. She said Matt planned to get his hands on Rhyno too, when he came back. Jeff soon spoke about Lita's match with Trish - sure to be yet another win for Team Xtreme. The two put their fists in, as Lita continued getting ready.
Stone Cold Steve Austin walked the halls in search of Triple H, when the WWF Champion was discovered by an anxiously waiting Jonathan Coachman. The Coach asked 'the Texas Rattlesnake' for what he planned to do when he found 'the Game'. Boldly, Stone Cold told Coach that was the dumbest question he'd ever heard - he was going to kick his ass! If Triple H wanted to come look for him so they could talk, Steve Austin would do a hell of a lot more than talk. As far as 'the Game' was concerned, there was no more waiting for Backlash because Stone Cold was gonna open a can of whoopass tonight!
- Trish Stratus continued to stretch, as Commissioner William Regal was joined in his office by Kurt Angle. 'The Megastar' was furious over the Big Show tipping his rental car on its roof earlier tonight. That would cost him a lot of money! 'The Goodwill Ambassador' asked why Kurt spent so much on a rental car, to which he responded that all Olympic Gold Medalists rode in style! The Englishman assured Kurt that he would be reimbursed appropriately, when into the room walked a disapproving Vince McMahon. Trish was pleased to see her boyfriend, but the Chairman commented that this could not keep happening. Shane McMahon could not keep getting away with what he wanted. Making a tag team match for SmackDown on Thursday, Vince threatened Regal to take care of the WCW Owner before their match at Backlash; and Kurt Angle would team up with the Commissioner to battle Shane and the Big Show! Vince then surprisingly patted Kurt on the shoulder, telling him that for 'the Giant's stubbornness, after Backlash he would make it Kurt's while to embarrass Big Show.
The WWF Owner requested a moment of privacy with Trish Stratus, and upon receiving privacy, Vince McMahon blew his mind upon seeing the dazzling silver ring gear that the WWF Diva was dressed in. Vince told Trish that he knew he'd told her to surprise him with what she was going to wear tonight - but he had to see her. Trish caressed Vince in his arms, and rubbed his chest. Vince told Trish that he wanted to wish her luck. The truth was he didn't want to see her get hurt by anybody - Lita tonight, or Stephanie McMahon on Sunday, but competing was what Trish wanted to do. Trish tried to make her lover feel better about the situation, when Vince dramatically roped her in for a long, passionate kiss! Breaking away, Vince left with a coy smile. Trish was visibly enticed, as she remarked that nobody gave a good luck kiss like the billionaire. Trish set off for the ring - the match with Lita up next!
- SMACKDOWN!, THIS THURSDAY: Kurt Angle and Commissioner William Regal vs Big Show and Shane McMahon
Trish Stratus made a walk down to the ring for singles competition, six days remaining until going one-on-one with Stephanie McMahon. Yet ahead of action against an old rival in Lita, Trish removed her cowboy hat and graced the microphone. Derogatory chants rained down on the WWF Diva, as she remained smitten after Vince McMahon's good luck kiss before the break. Trish knew the whole world was waiting for her match with 'the Billion Dollar Princess' at Backlash, but reminded them that Stephanie was safe for another six days. There would be no contact between them until Backlash, and if Steph wanted to fight - it would mean cancelling the match altogether. With that said, Trish asked the fans how hot she looked in her silver outfit tonight! Trish said she should be wearing gold, but right now this would do just as nicely. Trish spoke of how hot she was, and how she was the hottest Diva walking the World Wrestling Federation - it was no surprise why the Chairman was so infatuated by her beauty!
Trish regarded herself to the disapproving fans as the woman of every male's dreams, which was more than what could be said for her old friend Stephanie. She brought up how nobody had ever seen Steph getting the media attention that she does. She never graced the cover of WWF Magazine, or dolled herself up for photoshoots. Not even Kurt Angle had ever seen her wear a bikini! Trish explained that it said a lot - Steph had so much baggage to hide. Maybe she was insecure about her weight! There was no shame in not being able to look like Trish, but Steph was a little bit of a chubby bunny. Trish concluded that was the real reason Steph had such a grudge to hold against her: because she was so, so jealous of her glamorous goddess body! Lita finally interrupted, bringing the people to their feet. One-third of Team Xtreme killed no time, heading for the ring.6) Lita def. Trish Stratus (4:28)They spent the better part of last summer feuding with one another, in a Bra and Panties match or a Street Fight. Her match with Stephanie McMahon awaiting at Backlash, this was a tune-up match for Trish Stratus against Lita. Matt Hardy had to be watching his girlfriend fondly from home, as Lita took Trish down with a tackle early. Ramming Trish's head into the canvas, Trish got back up with a knee strike and began bringing the fight in return. Lita returned the favor with a dropkick sending her from the ring! Trish ran around ringside away from a pursuing Lita, who was elbow dropped upon return to the ring. A suplex garnered a two-count, when Trish hurled Lita across the ring by her hair! Vince McMahon watched the monitor backstage with a smile on his face, but Lita came back with a spinning headscissors! A snapmare connected, but Lita would miss an homage to Matt Hardy's diving legdrop. The bulldog connected, but Stephanie McMahon made her way down to ringside! Trish laughed and paraded in front of 'the Billion Dollar Princess', who suprisingly smiled in return. The distraction allowed Lita to come from behind with the Twist of Fate - to pick up the win!
Stephanie McMahon may not have taken Trish Stratus's evaluation of her body well, but had held it together well enough to cost her Backlash opponent the match against Lita! 'The Billion Dollar Princess' smiled from ringside and headed up the rampway, as Lita had her hand raised in victory. With Matt Hardy at home resting up from internal injuries, and Jeff Hardy set up for his match with Rhyno at Backlash, this was a big win for Lita. Trish rolled around the ring distraught, vengefully screaming in frustration at her former friend Steph. It was going to be an unpretty war this Sunday!
- Stone Cold Steve Austin paced his dressing room, the WWF Champion frustrated by Triple H's search for him earlier tonight. His wife, the WWF Divas Ambassador Debra pleaded with her husband not to go through with this. With six days until Backlash, was it worth potentially getting re-injured thanks to 'the Game?' Austin suggested she mind her business, because if Triple H wanted to run his little mouth about Stone Cold, that was one thing. The bottom line was, Austin knew 'the Game' wasn't willing to wait until Sunday night either, after all he Stunnered his ass last week - not once, but twice! Steve told Debra that maybe she was right, but he wasn't doing this for Hunter's benefit. Stone Cold was doing this for Stone Cold! Austin left the room, leaving Debra to shake her head in disapproval.
Edge and Christian lurked the corridor backstage, joking about the number they did to not only Chris Jericho's xylophone of a ribcage, but to his bizarroland little tag team with that freakazoid Raven. Christian joked they let their actions speak far louder than words, and now with Y2J out of the way, that meant step one of their plan was complete. In taking out the opposition, Edge surmised that it was time for step two: doing just what they did to Y2J earlier tonight - but to the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven! Christian joked that he'd be interested seeing how Raven got to be a tag team with his girl Tori, bringing Edge to comment that he'd seen prettier farmyards than Tori!
- In the arena, X-Factor cockily made their entrance to the ring ahead of tag team competition. In denim dungarees, the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac accompanied the ever-obnoxious Justin Credible, and the ever-serious Lance Storm. Kaientai made their way out to the stage, waving the Japanese flags to Denver's applause. Taka Michinoku greeted Colorado in a dubbed American accent, asking them if they had ever heard that X-Pac sucked! The fans chanted at X-Pac to his disdain, when Taka added that between Storm, Credible and X-Pac - they were all Teenage Dirtbags, but tonight there would be no listening to Iron Maiden...because Kaientai would kick X-Factor's butts and prove that they were EVIL. Funaki concurred with a low-pitched "INDEED", and the Japanese tag team would head for the ring.7) X-Factor (w/WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac) def. Kaientai (3:58)Kaientai swallowed a bitter pill at the hands of Edge and Christian on SmackDown, but had a chance to score another big win tonight against X-Factor. Funaki surprised with hurricanranas off the bat against Justin Credible, who kneeled all the way to Lance Storm for safety. Storm and Taka Michinoku went at it in quick-combat, Storm able to catch Taka's leg on a leapfrog and take him down. Storm looked for the Maple Leaf Crab early, just for Taka to kick him away. Taka sent Lance to the floor, when a distraction from X-Pac allowed Storm and Credible to trip Michinoku from the ring apron! X-Pac turned the referee's back to the action, as Storm and Credible delivered an atomic drop crotching Taka against the ring post. Back inside, Credible's arrogance showed mocking Taka, as he and Storm caught him with a double facebuster. Lance applied a leglock but Taka would kick free - the tag made to Funaki! With a tornado DDT to Storm, Kaientai double dropkicked Credible down, when Taka flew with a springboard crossbody to Lance at ringside! Funaki ran into X-Pac's roundhouse kick, with the official distracted - and That's Incredible gave Justin the three count.
It was an impressive victory for X-Factor, though it came with great help from X-Pac. Justin Credible chomped his gum to boos, he and Lance Storm having their hands raised. Yet X-Factor weren't yet finished with Kaientai, continuing to put the boots to Funaki! Lining him up in the corner, the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion delivered the Bronco Buster for added insult, when out ran Scotty 2 Hotty! Victoria was not far behind him, as Scotty tried his best to fight off the three men responsible for him being unsuccessful last night on Sunday Night Heat, X-Pac would drop him with the X-Factor. X-Factor sauntered from the ring in complete control, not to be underestimated. Victoria bowed her head in disappointment.
- The WWF Intercontinental Champion had a big grin on his face, as Raven wheeled the shopping cart down the hall with Tori beside him. Raven commented on how tonight would wind up beautifully no matter what. Cutting to Triple H, the challenger had his gameface on, surely ready for not only tonight - but for the WWF Championship match at Backlash as well! Stone Cold Steve Austin was looking for 'the Game', but Triple H was also looking to become a double champion in one week - the main event up next!8) Raven (w/Tori) (c) def. Triple H by disqualification to retain the WWF Intercontinental Championship (7:10)Triple H had hunted for Stone Cold Steve Austin earlier tonight, hopeful of avenging the two Stunners received last week. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' was searching for him too - not willing to wait for their WWF Championship match come Backlash. Raven pinned 'the Game' on SmackDown thanks to Austin, but this was the challenger's opportunity to become a double champion. The two started slowly with challenger overpowering champion. With a barrage of punches in the corner, Raven fought back to be hit with a neckbreaker! The fans were behind 'the Game', who brought the fight to ringside. Warning Tori not to get involved, it allowed Raven to come in with a Russian legsweep into the side of the announce table! Performing a bowing neckbreaker in the ring, Triple H fought back only to be hit with a neckbreaker by the WWF Intercontinental Champion.
HHH came back with a sleeper attempt, but between his legs kicked Raven with an undetected low blow! Raven dropped the bulldog, when heading to the second rope. All the showboating cost him, as Triple H delivered a facebuster, directly into the high knee! The DDT connected, but Tori draped Raven's foot over the bottom rope! Triple H would go after Tori, when from behind Raven rammed HHH into the ring post shoulder first! A suplex on the floor would go reversed, and inside the spinebuster landed, but Tori climbed to the apron. HHH dragged her inside and set up for the Pedigree, but Raven saved her with a discus clothesline! The Evenflow DDT connected, when Edge and Christian hit the ring - Edge dropping him with the spear!
The former WWF Tag Team Champions were ultra-serious about taking out the competition, having injured the ribs of Chris Jericho earlier tonight with the Conchairto. Now, they targeted Y2J's tag team partner, while in the process sabotaging this WWF Intercontinental Championship main event! Edge and Christian put the boots to Raven, who hugged a baseball bat handed to him by Tori. The Canadians scared her away to ringside, when Christian collected two steel chairs from the timekeeper's table. The Conchairto was soon-to-be in motion, when Chris Jericho hit the ring - bandaged ribs and all! Y2J caught both men with flying forearms, but a steel chair shot to the spine from Edge took down Raven's partner.
The dysfunctional team were in danger as Edge and Christian put the boots to them, when Stone Cold Steve Austin stomped down the rampway! Hotheaded as ever, the WWF Champion immediately dropped Christian with the Stunner. Edge bottomed out of the ring for his life, when from behind came Triple H! 'The Game' wasn't waiting for Backlash either, as he and Austin went toe-for-toe, blow-for-blow! The war waged out to the floor, when 'the Texas Rattlesnake' sent his challenger over into the crowd with a back body drop. Austin and Triple H continued to fight into the upper echelons of the crowd, with 'the Cerebral Assassin' asserting control - revenge for the two Stunners last week in mind! It was chaos in the Pepsi Center, with Backlash six days away!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 2, 2021 4:24:26 GMT -5
THE UNDERTAKER vs CHRIS BENOIT 'The American Badass' may have come out on top at WrestleMania X-Seven, but the aggression of 'the Rabid Wolverine' saw Chris Benoit tame 'the Deadman' the following night on RAW is WAR. Destroying the veteran's kneecap with the use of a wrench in a parking lot ambush, Benoit goaded, mocked and taunted the Undertaker for weeks; even threatening to injure countless other WWF Superstars in the process. Whether 100% or not, the Undertaker made his dominant return, here to remind Benoit that the yard still belonged to him. Would 'the Deadman' succeed, or would 'the Wolverine' prove him wrong?
STEPHANIE MCMAHON vs TRISH STRATUS If physical contact is made before Backlash, the match is cancelled. The exposed love affair of Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus at WrestleMania enraged an emotional Stephanie McMahon. It ended a thirty-four year marriage to Linda McMahon, but caused irreconcilable and irreversible damage to the McMahon Family. During a contract signing between the two, the Chairman would insert a stipulation citing that no physical contact could be made ahead of Backlash. Adamantly without her lover Kurt Angle, and her brother Shane McMahon, much to the chagrin of WWF Commissioner William Regal, this was 'the Billion Dollar Princess's shot at revenge on her treacherous snake of a former friend - one-on-one. BIG SHOW vs KURT ANGLE For months, Big Show was the most loyal soldier in the Coalition faction, which was led by then-WWF Champion Kurt Angle. Yet, Big Show had not forgotten last year, when 'the Megastar' broke his ankle. He also hadn't forgotten when the Olympic Gold Medalist was responsible for costing him the WWF Championship to Stone Cold Steve Austin. 'The Giant' in turn cost Angle his number one contender's match, naming him directly responsible. Big Show was not about to do the bidding of anybody else, and was no longer tolerating the obesity slander and ridicule made by Angle. Will Angle slip away with another major victory, or will Big Show get the revenge he deserves?
FOR SHANE MCMAHON'S WWF CONTRACT WILLIAM REGAL vs SHANE MCMAHONThe stubbornness of Shane McMahon had drawn irritation from the WWF Commissioner. Having acquired WCW from under his nose, the Chairman tried to ensure Shane O'Mac would be banned from arenas nationwide. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' tried making it so - if not for Shane's still-active talent contract. In order to avoid a lawsuit, Regal personally challenged Shane to put his contract at stake. Now the Englishman was at pressure by the WWF Owner to get the job done. Would Regal regain his respect by beating Shane, or would Shane continue to be welcomed in the World Wrestling Federation? WWF TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP TABLES MATCH THE DUDLEY BOYZ (c) vs THE RADICALZ2001 was becoming the Dudley Boyz' year, becoming three-time WWF Tag Team Champions from TLC II at WrestleMania X-Seven. Being joined by their little brother Spike Dudley and an old friend, Rob Van Dam, the Dudleys had RVD's back against beatdowns from the Radicalz. The Radicalz had become meaner, sneakier, and out to do the bidding of Terri. She was humiliated to find Spike spying on her in the shower. Stirring the pot saw Perry Saturn respond violently against 'the Runt of the Dudley Litter'. Saturn and Dean Malenko were gunning for their first taste of Tag gold - while the Dudleys strived to introduce 'the She-Devil' to the wood. RHYNO vs JEFF HARDY'The Man-Beast' was a runaway train to be reckoned with, ever since arriving in the World Wrestling Federation at the 2001 Royal Rumble. Since then, he had been WWF Hardcore Champion and surmounted to an immaculate winning streak. Yet since WrestleMania, Rhyno's assaults have come spontaneously, with the Gore to Hulk Hogan heard around the world. Breaking the Hulkster's ribs was one thing; making Matt Hardy suffer from internal bleeding was another. Jeff Hardy was a vendetta to avenge his brother, not afraid to face the animal one-on-one. Would Hardy score his biggest win to date, or would the beast claim another victim? Matches to be announced. 6 DAYS AWAY!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 3, 2021 2:57:45 GMT -5
SmackDown! - April 26, 2001 Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado Broadcast on UPNTaped on April 24, 2001
Backlash was right around the corner, and Triple H was on the hunt for WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin. Searching the entire arena, he had to go and prepare for his WWF Intercontinental Championship match with Raven. When 'the Texas Rattlesnake' found out, he too soon went on the hunt for 'the Game'. After his tag team partner Chris Jericho was waylaid by the gold-craving Edge and Christian with a Conchairto earlier that night, Raven had to go it alone. Fighting toe-to-toe with Triple H was a hard feat, one growing more complex once the former WWF Tag Team Champions arrived on the scene. Y2J tried and failed to come to Raven's aid despite an argument earlier that night - but it would be Stone Cold who would hit the ring to take out allcomers! Austin and Triple H finally found their men, fighting into the bleachers of the arena - with their WWF Championship match six days away!
The opening video package aired, cutting to the Pepsi Center with a rabid house on hand! Pyrotechnics exploded across the stage, as Michael Cole and Tazz welcomed us to SmackDown! For a second consecutive night in Denver, we were three days away from Backlash live on pay-per-view with a loaded night planned!
- TONIGHT: Kurt Angle and Commissioner William Regal vs Big Show and Shane McMahon
- TONIGHT: The Undertaker, WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho vs Chris Benoit, Edge and Christian
- "Glass Shattered" by Disturbed hammered through the Pepsi Center, bringing out the WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin! 'The Texas Rattlesnake' hit the ring and saluted the people to loud cheers, taking to the microphone. Immediately Austin wanted to clear the air about one thing. He did have a match with Triple H this Sunday at Backlash. The WWF Championship was on the line, and they did not like each other. Something had to give, and with the title at stake - the same title he had walked through hell to get at WrestleMania - it was sure as hell going to be him that was going to give! Stone Cold spoke of the title being the one thing he cared more than anything about, and mentioned defeating The Rock in the hardest fought match of his damn-near life. He went through a broken neck, all of the rehabilitation, and worked his way back to the tip-top of the World Wrestling Federation to make it where he was today. So with Triple H bitter about losing everything, and wanting to get it back - Stone Cold once again asked 'the Game' what the hell was taking him so long!
Stone Cold Steve Austin said Backlash was Sunday, but tonight was Thursday - they gave this building a sneak peek on RAW is WAR on Monday, so what was stopping them from going at it again tonight? Surveying the Denver crowd, asking who wanted to see he and Triple H whoop each other's asses tonight, the fans in attendance responded with an emphatic "Hell Yeah!" Stone Cold draped the WWF Championship at his feet before him in the middle of the ring. Stone Cold knew Triple H was going to be here tonight, so if he wanted to come get some redemption early - to meet him in the parking lot tonight, and they can get themselves down to some brass tax! Austin picked up his title and raised it high to huge cheers before departure - were the two headliners really going to go at it in the parking lot, three days before Backlash tonight?
- Rob Van Dam was in the locker room area chatting to the Dudley Boyz ahead of his match with Albert. The WWF Tag Team Champions laughed with RVD about the head games they played with Terri and Perry Saturn on Monday night, but D-Von was weary about the Radicalz tonight. They offered have 'the Whole Dam Show's back, but he told them not to sweat it. Bubba Ray Dudley already had a match with Perry Saturn to take care of - so he'd smoke 'the Freight Train' no doubt about it. RVD added that if Eddie Guerrero wanted to do anything about it, before they meet at Backlash - 'Latino Heat' could step up and try Rob Van Dam! Smiling and leaving the room, RVD was in action next!
- BACKLASH, THIS SUNDAY: Rob Van Dam vs Eddie Guerrero
- TONIGHT: WWF Tag Team Champion Bubba Ray Dudley vs Perry Saturn
- TONIGHT: Rob Van Dam vs Albert
Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus sat on the couch in the Chairman's office. They laughed looking through a photo album tonight. Vince chuckled, reminiscing about memories of a little Stephanie McMahon with an ice cream cone. She cried so hard when it dropped on the floor. Trish remarked how that was what Vince's daughter would look like after Backlash this Sunday. Turning the page, Vince narrated the night 'the Billion Dollar Princess' spelled spaghetti all over herself, to which the WWF Diva laughed - what an ugly baby she was! Closing the book, Vince handed her the album of baby pictures, and Trish commented on how Stephanie seemed like a nightmare of a child - how did a cunning, handsome genius give birth to her? Vince smirked, telling her to blame Linda. The two laughed some more, when Trish came to her feet. With the book in hand, Trish thanked her for the material, and kissed the boss on the cheek before leaving! Stratus said this album would come in handy for what she had planned tonight.
- 1) Rob Van Dam def. Albert (w/D-Lo Brown) (3:56)'The Whole Dam Show' was confirmed to meet Eddie Guerrero in a rubber match at Backlash on Sunday, but first had to bypass 'the Freight Train', with D-Lo Brown in his corner. As the bell sounded, Eddie Guerrero sauntered out, allowing Albert to get the drop on him. 'Latino Heat' joined commentary to verbally run down RVD, as a gorilla press slam gave Albert a near fall. Sending Van Dam to the floor, D-Lo got to attack behind the referee's back. Albert missed a shoulder tackle and fell into the crowd, when Van Dam draped him over the barricade. Off the ring apron saw Van Dam with a roundhouse kick across the spine, as RVD pointed his thumbs at himself - in front of 'the Real Deal!' Inside, a cartwheel into a standing moonsault got a one count, when Albert came back with a clothesline! A neck crank applied, RVD worked his way, elbowing to freedom. A martial arts kick off the top rope connected, and a second side kick would knock Albert down! The Rolling Thunder landed, but D-Lo jumped to the apron - until Test came to ringside, scaring him off! The Five-Star Frog Splash picked up the big win for Rob Van Dam, with Eddie watching intently!
Rob Van Dam had his hand raised in victory, as Test followed D-Lo Brown around ringside. 'The Real Deal' clutched his briefcase in fear, when back inside Eddie Guerrero hopped off commentary to jump his rival! 'Latino Heat' lost his cool, putting the boots to RVD before dropping him with the brainbuster. Three days from their match at Backlash, Eddie slowly climbed to the top rope. With theatric mocking 'the Whole Dam Show's thumb-pointing, a Frog Splash left Van Dam laying, and Eddie left with a coy smirk on his face.
- Stone Cold Steve Austin was in the locker room, sat with his wife Debra. The WWF Divas Ambassador tried to talk her husband out of the parking lot meeting he'd planned tonight with Triple H. Advising against it strongly, Debra was concerned about the WWF Champion's wellfare days away from Backlash. Stone Cold told Debra that Triple H had asked for it on Monday night, and he wasn't letting RAW is WAR be the end of it until Sunday. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' wasn't about to wait until their WWF Championship match - and he sensed 'the Game' didn't want to wait either. It was going to go down, no ifs or buts about it!
The Radicalz were gathered in the hall backstage, Perry Saturn securely hugging Terri tightly as Dean Malenko spoke with his metal face protector on. Eddie Guerrero walked up, full of life over what he did to Rob Van Dam moments ago - and that was how it was going to be come Sunday at Backlash. Eddie took satisfaction in having the best Frog Splash in the World Wrestling Federation, and there would be no upstaging when he kicks RVD's ass again in three days. Eddie asked 'the She-Devil' how she was doing, to which she confessed - she was afraid of the Dudley Boyz. Dean put his hand on her shoulder to comfort her, causing a psychotic Saturn to glare at him, gritting his teeth. As Eddie spoke to them about taking the WWF Tag Team Championships from the Dudleys, Perry declared Bubba Ray Dudley would pay with his life tonight. Wide-eyed, he left his pink fuzzy hat with Dean.
- On commentary, Michael Cole and Tazz recapped Stephanie McMahon and Trish Stratus's history, talking about their friendship in the lead-up to WrestleMania. It was at 'the Grandaddy of Them All' where Trish and Vince McMahon's affair became public to the entire world, shortly before Shane McMahon beat him in the Street Fight. A replay reminded of the contract signing last week on SmackDown, where both Stephanie and Trish signed a no-contact agreement which banned them from laying hands on one another. On RAW is WAR, Trish slandered 'the Billion Dollar Princess' in the middle of the ring, when Steph got her revenge - costing Trish her match with Lita without even touching her!
We went to footage taken from yesterday, where WWF CEO Linda McMahon was in a comatose state in an armchair at the McMahon Family mansion in Greenwich, Connecticut. Into the room walked her daughter Stephanie McMahon, who thanked a nearby nurse for caring for her mother. Kneeling beside Linda, she remained silent and distant. Stephanie confessed to not being around so much. The two of them had never quite seen eye to eye. It was difficult for her to, but Steph apologized to Linda for everything: whether it was the harsh words she had said over the years, or the slap she gave her last year on RAW is WAR. Even when she and Shane McMahon were in cohoots against Vince McMahon and Linda - what her father did to her mother was vile. It was putridly disgusting, and Stephanie couldn't stand for it. Stephanie let Linda know that she was trying her best to make life hell for the both of them. She vowed to make life hell for Trish Stratus, and when she got her hands on the WWF Diva at Backlash - Trish would regret ever getting involved with her Dad, and Linda's husband. Rubbing Linda's arm, Stephanie got up and said she loved her, before consulting the nurse. The nurse said Linda was heavily sedated - a prime side effect of the medication.
- Commissioner William Regal sat in his office, enjoying a cup of English tea. In walked Kurt Angle, continuing to bicker about the cost of the rental car from Monday night. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' rolled his eyes, reminding 'the Megastar' that Vince McMahon personally was fronting the bill to reimburse him. Angle told William that that wasn't enough - it was the principle of it! It was embarrasing for the Olympic Gold Medalist to have to borrow money from the Chairman for the Big Show's damage! Angle told him Big Show was a joke to this fine sport. They had a match signed for Backlash, but Big Show's idea of competition was four Big Macs and a Bacon Whopper! 'The Giant' had no idea what he was in for. Kurt spoke about Show being a mockery, as was the WCW Owner. He and Regal - they were real wrestlers. Regal came up fighting with Queensbury rules in his blood. Whereas Kurt - he was 'the Megastar'. Reeling off his countless accolades, Kurt proposed the two of them take Big Show and Shane McMahon out of the equation. Smiling, Regal liked the idea. Angle shook hands with the Commissioner - this was a real gentleman's handshake.
The WWF European Champion Bradshaw had guests in the APA's office. WWF Superstars such as WWF Women's Champion Chyna, Billy Gunn, K-Kwik, Kaientai, Steve Blackman and Essa Rios surrounded the table - everybody wanting to place their bets on the parking lot fight tonight between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H! Dollar notes were flying everywhere, as the Texan surlily smoked his cigar and counted the money in his hands. Hollering to ask who everybody had - the WWF Champion or the challenger; 'the Texas Rattlesnake' or 'the Game' - Bradshaw was sure to make a killing!
- 2) Lita (w/Jeff Hardy) def. Molly Holly (4:20) Lita was coming off a big win against Trish Stratus on RAW is WAR, whereas Molly Holly hoped to regain a standing in the WWF Women's Championship chase. Jeff Hardy kept a keen eye out for his Backlash opponent Rhyno, while Molly was suspiciously all by herself. The women shook hands, mixing it up with a lucha-libre exchange. The two wrestled to the apron where Lita reversed a powerbomb, into a hurricanrana off the apron! Lita delivered a missile dropkick for a near fall, but Molly surprised with a northern lights suplex. It was split between the two fan favourites, when Molly took control with an elbow drop to the spine. The surfboard stretch applied, Lita was pained - she would reverse into a cradle. Lita fired back with clotheslines; the diving legdrop of boyfriend Matt Hardy landing! The Twist of Fate was blocked bringing both to a double knockdown, when a muscular lady in a blue dress came to the ring! Arguing with the official, Jeff Hardy dragged her from the apron, and the blonde wig fell off - it was Crash! The WWF Divas baffled, Jeff ran a humiliated Crash up the rampway. In the ring, the Twist of Fate led to the Moonsault for the win!
Lita was victorious in an evenly-pitted match against Molly Holly, but the bigger question remained: what was up with Crash wearing a wig and a dress? Jeff Hardy duked it out with an embarrassed Crash at the top of the rampway, but in the ring as Lita celebrated on the second rope - into the ring came Rhyno! 'The Man-Beast' had come via the crowd, and he stalked Lita before striking with a rapid Gore! Lita was left for dead, and Jeff would rush to the ring to fend off the escaping animal. Jeff attended to Lita, furious at Rhyno - who he would meet on Sunday!
- X-Factor laughed up what they did on Monday night, how they left Kaientai and even Scotty 2 Hotty laid out in the ring. The WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac told Lance Storm and Justin Credible that that was what they needed to do to gain respect. Off-camera, X-Pac spotted Victoria walking down the hall. Cornering her, the trio confronted her about what her little friend Scotty tried to do on RAW is WAR. Justin creepily brushed her hair, and she was clearly intimidated. Lance was disgusted by Victoria using the seduction capable of an American woman to corrupt Scotty into thinking he was a hero. X-Pac planned to show Scotty and Kaientai in a six-man tag team match tonight exactly why they had the X-Factor, and why they were the shot-callers tonight. Justin sniffed Victoria's hair to her disgust, as the trio left.
- TONIGHT: X-Factor vs Scotty 2 Hotty and Kaientai
Meanwhile, the WWF Tag Team Champions headed for the ring. With Spike Dudley still resting up from the beating Perry Saturn gave him in the locker room last week, the Dudley Boyz walked with gold - and with tables in hand! Bubba was prepared to face Saturn, who was hungry for revenge after the Dudleys put the fear in Terri on Monday. It was singles action, coming up next!
Triple H had a smirk on his face, arriving at the Pepsi Center with luggage in hand. 'The Game' was ready for Backlash this Sunday, but acknowledged the various backstage assistants all staring at him. 'The Game' checked his armpits for odours, before catching up with Jim Ross to ask him what everybody was looking at. With reluctance, J.R. relayed the news from Stone Cold Steve Austin earlier tonight. Getting him up to speed, the WWF Champion had challenged him to a meeting in the parking lot tonight. Triple H's face dropped to one of determination, when HHH asked if J.R. was joking. Jim said Steve wasn't willing to wait until Sunday, and Triple H's tone changed. That was good by him, because he couldn't wait for Backlash either. Hunter said he had stuff to take care of, but to tell 'the Texas Rattlesnake' he'd see his ass there.
- 3) Perry Saturn (w/Dean Malenko and Terri) def. WWF Tag Team Champion Bubba Ray Dudley (w/D-Von Dudley) (3:26)Perry Saturn had been unhinged since RAW is WAR, where the Dudley Boyz got even with the Radicalz for assaulting Spike Dudley; intimidating Terri by threatening to put her through a table! With the Tables match for the WWF Tag Team Championships set for Backlash, D-Von brought a table to ringside, again scaring Terri who stood with Dean Malenko. Saturn jumped Bubba Ray Dudley with strikes immediately, launching his arsenal of suplexes for near fall. Pummelling the champ with mounted right hands, Saturn got a diving elbow drop for a near fall. Bubba would rebound with a clothesline, and a back suplex gave Bubba a near fall. The diving senton went missed, and Saturn responded with the cross-armbreaker. Bubba muscled him up for a powerbomb, when fighting back with a punching combination reminiscent of 'the American Dream!' It led to the Bubba Bomb but Terri climbed to the apron. Malenko slid in with his steel face protector in hand - but D-Von intercepted. A body slam led to Wazzup for Malenko, and Bubba told D-Von to get the tables! All the while, Saturn used the face protector to lay Bubba out - giving him the three count.
The Radicalz had stolen another one, but it would surely be tougher in the Tables match at Backlash. Perry Saturn locked in the Rings of Saturn on Bubba Ray Dudley after the match, when a distraction from Terri allowed Dean Malenko to clock D-Von Dudley with the steel face protector! The WWF Tag Team Champions were down in the ring, with Saturn and Malenko continuing their assault. Setting up the table from ringside in the ring, Saturn and Malenko set Bubba up on the top rope for a double powerbomb - when Spike Dudley would hit the ring, evening numbers! Spike duked it out with both of them, dropping Saturn with the Dudley Dog! The Dudleys prepared the 3D on Malenko, but Saturn was able to drag him to safety. Words were exchanged from both sides, but the three Dudleys would hug it out in the ring - back together again!
- Lita sat up on the stretcher backstage, as EMTs surrounded her trying to get the WWF Diva to relax. Clutching her ribs in agony, Jeff Hardy raced to the scene. Explaining to the medics that Lita was Team Xtreme - and not to make her do anything she didn't want to do! The medics calmly explained to Jeff that Lita might have broken ribs thanks to Rhyno, causing Jeff to throw down his cap in anger! As referees filled the scene, Jeff voiced that he was going to go looking for 'the Man-Beast' responsible, but officials would stop him in his tracks.
- Trish Stratus walked down the corridor, hugging the gifted photo album belonging to Stephanie McMahon. Heading for the ring, one had to wonder how much lower the WWF Diva could stoop - three days before their match at Backlash!
Trish Stratus made her way down to the ring to boos from the people of Denver, Colorado. Still hugging the photo album gifted to her by lover Vince McMahon, the WWF Diva climbed into the ring with a big smile on her face. Taking to the microphone, Trish presented Stephanie McMahon's book of childhood photos to the crowd. She spoke about Backlash being the first-time official encounter between her and Stephanie, and how it had to have been such a frustrating wait for 'the Billion Dollar Princess'. After all with her Daddy, Vince McMahon so madly in love with her, it was clear that Vince had a new favorite girl in his life. Trish gloated openly about her relationship with Stephanie's father, and how romantic Vince could be. But after all that Stephanie had done, it had caused nothing but stress for the billionaire. Stephanie's actions and words had tormented Vince, who was honest-to-God a good guy, and a great lover, especially seeing how her and Trish used to be so close - that is until jealousy got in the way. That's what it all boiled down to, in Trish's mind - jealousy.
Stephanie was jealous because of not just Trish's passionate romance with her father Vince, but also the way that she looked. Trish was the new 'Daddy's Little Girl' to replace 'the Billion Dollar Princess', and could anybody blame Vince? When Trish looked like a goddess, and Stephanie was Satan's child, who looked like trailer park trash. After seeing them together, Trish basked maybe Stephanie was wishing she still had a relationship with Kurt Angle, but in classic McMahon fashion: Stephanie had to go ahead and ruin good things. Trish flicked through pages upon pages of the childhood photo album, glossing over how ridiculous Stephanie used to look growing up. Passing a photo of Stephanie in a Bret Hart T-shirt, Trish remarked that the 1990s hairstyle never did her justice - her make-up was sloppy, and honestly not a whole lot had changed! Trish then shocked the Pepsi Center - there was more. Pulling up edited pictures on the OvalTron, one showed a fat baby with Stephanie's head! Trish laughed it up, as the next image showed an overweight woman in a bikini - again with Steph's face edited on!
Trish continued to giggle, as she declared that when it came down to their match at Backlash, she wasn't afraid of 'the Billion Dollar Princess'. Trish Stratus had fought many times before, and she would again. This Sunday at Backlash, Trish planned to make Stephanie taste some sweet Stratusfaction. Finally, Stephanie McMahon stepped out to the stage. Unmoved, she waltzed down the rampway and joined Trish in the ring, where Trish asked Steph if she was going to attack her. If Steph jumped her, or ripped off a stitch of clothing tonight - she could kiss their match at Backlash goodbye forever! Steph closed in and stepped up to Trish, who continued running her mouth. Simply snatching the microphone away from her, Stephanie told Trish that this Sunday, at Backlash: their match would be all of Trish's worst nightmares come to life. Stephanie was going to disfigure Vince's new, little girl! Trish cowered out to the floor in detest, as Stephanie smiled an evil grin back at her. This match was going to go down, whether Trish liked it or not!
- Ahead of six-man tag team competition, the Undertaker shadowboxed in the locker room area. In walked Chris Jericho, who spoke of Edge and Christian trying to get his number on RAW is WAR. They bruised his ribs, and he might be battered and sore - but he was going to make both of the primadonnas pay dearly. 'The American Badass' put on his sunglasses to prepare to hit the ring - when in walked the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven. He asked what about him, what about Raven? Undertaker glared Raven in the face, no love lost between the two former enemies. Jericho stood between them, as Raven confessed knowing this wasn't an ideal partnership, but he was a new man. He had changed since the Undertaker made him famous at Armageddon. Y2J also glared at Raven, who told him he'd better not no-show like he did on Monday. Undertaker warned Raven not to pull any stunts or mind games out there. 'The Deadman' was here to do one thing: beat Chris Benoit's ass. As Undertaker left, Y2J glared at Raven before leaving as well. Raven was alone, and called after them: what did he ever do? He was a part of the same team, one of the good guys!
Chris Benoit's face bore one of seriousness, with three days until his second meeting with the Undertaker. Determined, Benoit was followed by Edge and Christian. With it being announced that Backlash would see the former WWF Tag Team Champions team up against Chris Jericho and WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven - there was a lot on the line, with the six-man tag team match coming up next.
- BACKLASH, THIS SUNDAY: WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho vs Edge and Christian
4) Chris Benoit, Edge and Christian def. The Undertaker, WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho (w/Tori) (7:27)There was much on the line on Sunday, but coming into this match not only was Chris Jericho struggling with bandaged ribs thanks to Edge and Christian; but the Undertaker hobbled with the braced knee. Shattered kneecap and all, 'the American Badass' led Y2J and Raven to battle, the match with Chris Benoit, Edge and Christian quickly boiling down to 'the Deadman' and 'the Rabid Wolverine'. Benoit chopped Undertaker to receive a big boot, when ten punches landed in the corner. Undertaker took out Edge and Christian, when tagging in Y2J who gave Benoit a missile dropkick. Jericho and Raven would team up to take out Christian, a clothesline into a bulldog from the WWF Intercontinental Champion. Y2J kept up the fight, when Edge illegally came in and speared the bandaged ribs!
The Canadian team cornered Y2J, Benoit taunting 'the Deadman' from afar as Edge and Christian beat on Y2J at ringside, behind the referee's back. With a seated abdominal stretch applied, Benoit had Jericho stranded. He fought back, to be cut off by a back suplex! Edge continued the pressure, but taunted Raven's pose - allowing Jericho to strike with a wheel kick off the ropes! Raven ran wild off the tag, Tori cheering on her man. A double DDT turned the tables on Edge and Christian, when Benoit struck with three German suplexes! Now, the Canadians ganged up on Raven, when a discus clothesline caught Christian off guard. In came the Undertaker, who ran wild on all three men. A Chokeslam landed on Edge, when Benoit tackled him into Raven. Undertaker and Benoit duked it out at ringside, as did Christian and Y2J. Christian suddenly rammed Raven's shopping cart, trapping Y2J against the ring apron! Tossing a 2x4 from it to Edge, he clocked Raven with it - to steal the win!
With the referee trying to control Chris Benoit and the Undertaker's fight on the floor, Edge had snatched the victory against the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven. Three days before the high stakes tag team match, with title implications, Edge and Christian continued their onslaught: Edge with more right hands for Raven! Chris Jericho hit the ring with a steel chair to fend them off. Meanwhile at ringside 'the Rabid Wolverine' had chop blocked 'the American Badass' to the floor! With a leglock applied to the shattered kneecap of 'the Deadman', he rived in agony, Benoit let go of the grip and backed up the rampway in confidence. The three Canadians were undeniably dangerous, but would it bode well for them in their respective matches on Sunday night, at Backlash?
- WWF Superstars had begun to gather in the parking lot, as WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin waited idly by for the arrival of Triple H. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' paced the concrete floor, when the huddled cast of faces such as WWF European Champion Bradshaw, WWF Women's Champion Chyna, Billy Gunn, K-Kwik, Al Snow, D-Lo Brown, Essa Rios among others fell hushed. Up walked Vince McMahon, who wanted to ask Steve what he thought he was doing. Austin glared at the Chairman and told him he didn't answer to him, and he was shocked Vince didn't get that. Nothing was stopping this from happening - he and Triple H both wanted this fight tonight. The WWF Owner questioned how this might effect their match at Backlash, reminding him of his injured neck. Stone Cold reminded Vince that he never gave a damn about him before, and he had stuff to worry about himself. 'The Rattlesnake' had walked this song and dance with Vince for years - he knew his angle. Vince argued that he simply looked at this rationally, and asked why would they do this, here in the parking lot? Austin told Vince bluntly to p*ss off, or get a beating himself. Gulping, Vince decided to leave the crowded parking lot scene. What was Vince's motive?
The Dudley Boyz were thrilled to see their little brother Spike Dudley, as they gathered backstage. Jonathan Coachman stood by, attempting to interview them. D-Von ruffled Spike's hair while Bubba Ray gave him a hug. United after over a week apart, Spike spoke about how good it felt to be back, and how good it felt to get payback on Perry Saturn for the muffin fiasco in the locker room last week. The WWF Tag Team Champions talked about the Radicalz doing all they could to gain an opening heading into Backlash, but on Sunday night, vengeance would be the Dudleys' name when they put Saturn and Dean Malenko through the wood. D-Von preached that they were the most dominant WWF Tag Team Champions, and Sunday would prove it, while Bubba added that with the Dudleys all back together, they would dominate the Radicalz and walk out still the champs!
- 5) X-Factor def. Scotty 2 Hotty and Kaientai (w/Victoria) (3:41)X-Factor did a number on Kaientai on RAW is WAR, when Scotty 2 Hotty came out hoping to return the favor after Lance Storm and Justin Credible cost him his WWF Light Heavyweight Championship match with X-Pac on Sunday Night Heat. After creeping out Victoria earlier tonight, she watched in disturbance as Credible gestured to her at ringside. There was no talking from Kaientai tonight, as Taka Michinoku flew with a spinning headscissors and Funaki connected with a hurricanrana from the top rope to Storm. Scotty 2 Hotty performed a dancing missile dropkick for a near fall, when X-Pac came in illegally. The distraction gave Storm time to drop Scotty with a backbreaker, and X-Factor took turns in beating down Scotty. The Bronco Buster connected, but when Scotty would duck a roundhouse kick from X-Pac and drop him with a suplex - making the tag to Funaki! Coming in with a crucifix pin, an enzuigiri led to a tornado DDT on X-Pac - when Storm and Credible struck with a double super kick for Funaki, named "X Marks the Spot!" As they took care of Scotty and Taka, X-Pac took advantage with the X-Factor to pick up an ill-fought win.
X-Factor had stolen another win against Scotty 2 Hotty and Kaientai, but much like on RAW is WAR they were not yet through the three fan favorites. X-Pac mounted Funaki with right hands, as Lance Storm and Justin Credible put the boots to Taka Michinoku and Scotty 2 Hotty in the corner of the ring. Victoria was grabbed by the hair by Credible, who once again creepily sniffed her locks. Victoria was panicked and slapped the sleazeball - when out came Rikishi! Dressed for competition, the former WWF Intercontinental Champion stormed the ring with a super kick for Storm, and a Samoan drop for X-Pac! 'Big Kish' was back, and he thrust Credible in the corner with the hip bump!
Dropping down, Scotty, Victoria and Kaientai observed as the Stinkface was laid on Justin! X-Factor retreated to the floor - but Rikishi wasn't yet done with the rest of the gang. Putting his sunglasses on, Rikishi and Scotty 2 Hotty also had pairs for Kaientai and Victoria! The fivesome stood bowed in the middle of the ring, when Too Cool's music came over the Pepsi Center. To a huge ovation, the five started dancing at X-Factor's expense from ringside. Pyrotechnics sparked from the four ring posts, as the Samoan backed that ass up - and gestured for X-Factor to come get some! The big man was back.
- The Undertaker iced his leg in the trainer's office backstage, when in came Jonathan Coachman hoping to get some comments from 'the American Badass'. When asked if he would be good to compete at Backlash, Undertaker cursed in adamance that he would be. Whether he was in a world of hurt or not, Chris Benoit was going to get his ass kicked. It didn't matter whether he was 100% or not, he was going to Backlash. He would make 'the Rabid Wolverine' pay, and he would cripple 'the Crippler'. Undertaker told the Coach to get out before he made him famous too, but not before telling Benoit that he would personally see it that he would see him in hell after Sunday night. What shape would the Undertaker's kneecap be in after Backlash?
- Big Show lifted the straps on his black singlet, prepared for the tag team match ahead. In walked the WCW Owner Shane McMahon. Adorned in red and white, the baseball jersey-clad Shane O'Mac spoke about the war they went through on Monday night. Shane wanted to know whether they were on the same page, to which 'the Giant' stared through Shane - before chuckling to him. Of course they were, but it was less about being on the same page tonight, it was more about getting revenge on Kurt Angle and Commissioner William Regal for the deeds they tried committing. Show spoke of the harmful words 'the Megastar' said about him, and how the Olympic Gold Medalist had everything coming his way. It had been a long time coming, but he would break down Kurt Angle. Shane concurred, speaking of William Regal doing everything he could to keep the WCW Owner down. Tonight, there was no backing down, and Shane felt honored to team with the 500-pounder. Show turned to leave, when Shane tapped Show on the shoulder and told him if things ever went south in the WWF, 'the Giant' would always be welcome back in WCW. Show mused it in leaving.
A video package caught up with what the former WWF Champion had been up to since WrestleMania X-Seven. The Rock had left to be a Hollywood film star, performing on the set of his first major motion picture - the Mummy Returns. In interviews with his fellow cast members, everybody spoke fondly of 'the Brahma Bull', who in a brief interview spoke of how wonderful an experience this production was - one that he would never, ever forget. If Ya Smell What The Rock is Cookin!'
- Jeff Hardy was frustrated following the Gore that Rhyno gave Lita earlier tonight, walking the backstage halls. He stopped in his tracks, upon seeing a grinning Paul Heyman before him. The color commentator told Jeff that he was sorry about what happened to Lita, but he did warn Team Xtreme not to mess with 'the Man-Beast'. Grabbing Paul by the collar of his shirt, Jeff angrily told Paul to get Rhyno, because this would not stand. Heyman shrugged himself away, reminding Jeff that he was a mere bystander. Paul asserted he had no connection or affiliation with Rhyno, and that the animal was his own animal - a wild one! Paul reprimanded Jeff for laying his hands on an innocent broadcast journalist, saying what he was doing would accomplish nothing. Mid-conversation, Rhyno came out of nowhere - the Gore sending Jeff directly into a steel shutter door! Jeff went down in pain, as Paul fled the scene screaming! Rhyno growled over Jeff's body - he'd see him on Sunday!
- Kurt Angle psyched himself up, moments away from the tag team match with Commissioner William Regal, against Big Show and Shane McMahon. 'The Megastar' walked down a flight of stairs, when being shocked to see his supposed girlfriend Stephanie McMahon. Kurt's jaw dropped from one of vengefulness, as he expressed his hope to see her tonight. Steph questioned if that was so, bringing up last week. Kurt was nowhere to be found when Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus were humiliating her, standing tall in the ring during the contract signing. Instead, it was her brother Shane McMahon who came to her aid. The Olympic Gold Medalist defended himself saying that Steph wanted to handle this all by herself - he had other stuff to take care of! Angle told Stephanie she'd said it herself: they were on a break. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' brought up tonight: Angle and Regal in her father Vince's camp, against her own brother Shane. She'd also heard Vince funded Angle for the rental car Big Show wrecked on RAW is WAR! Concluding that they were on a break before, Steph now needed to consider where they stood. Stephanie stormed off, Angle riled up.
Meanwhile, Commissioner William Regal left his office to head to the ring. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' was dressed for competition, a look of determination on his face days before meeting Shane McMahon at Backlash. Suddenly he came across Vince McMahon. The Chairman surmised that Regal had better win tonight and at Backlash, so nobody would ever have to see Shane McMahon in a WWF ring again. Regal assured the WWF Owner that he would take care of it.
- Elsewhere, Triple H was dressed in street clothes. Apparently on his way to the parking lot of the Pepsi Center, 'the Game' was not dressed for in-ring competition. It looked like 'the Cerebral Assassin' was going to meet Stone Cold Steve Austin! With their WWF Championship match coming up in three days, who knew who would come out on top in this fight!6) Kurt Angle and Commissioner William Regal def. WCW Owner Shane McMahon and Big Show (5:23)Backlash boiled down to Shane McMahon fighting Commissioner William Regal with his WWF Superstar contract on the line, and Kurt Angle hoping to break down the mad angry 'Giant' that was Big Show. After Angle and Regal's involvement in Shane and Big Show's match on RAW is WAR, this was their chance at retribution. Big Show came after Kurt Angle upon arrival, when Shane insisted on starting. 'The Megastar' easily outwrestled Shane, knocking Shane down with takedowns. Shane would sidestep and respond striking out Angle, a clothesline taking the Olympic Gold Medalist down! Shane laughed at Regal, when Big Show tagged in. Angle cowered to a flabbergasted 'Goodwill Ambassador', who tried locking up with 'the Giant' only to be tossed away easily! Big chop in the corner followed with a sidewalk slam, when Angle jumped Big Show from behind! Regal got the chop block off the distraction, and the Englishman soon grounded the 500-pounder.
Angle mounted a sleeper hold on his enemy, but Show powered Kurt on his back and squashed him in the corner! With a big boot, Big Show tagged in Shane who fired with clotheslines. Surprising Kurt with an amateur-style takedown, Shane slapped the back of his head, when Regal jumped him! Both sent Shane off the ropes, but the WCW Owner came back with a double clothesline! Shane went for the diving elbow drop on the Commissioner, but Kurt hit the top rope with a run-up belly-to-belly suplex! Big Show grabbed Angle by the throat, but Angle reversed for the German suplex - the big man too heavy, crushing the Olympian! As they rolled to the floor, Regal took advantage with the Regal Stretch applied - forcing Shane O'Mac to tap!
'The Goodwill Ambassador' had forced the WCW Owner into submission, and if William Regal were to do the same in three days, Shane McMahon would be terminated from his WWF Superstar contract! The relentless Commissioner refused to relinquish the Regal Stretch after the match, when Kurt Angle came in with a steel chair in hand. Unmoved by the weapon, 'the Giant' re-entered the ring and punched the steel chair from the Olympic Gold Medalist's hands! Show grabbed Angle by the throat for the Chokeslam, but a low blow from the Englishman turned the tide in 'the Megastar's favor. Regal put the boots to Shane O'Mac in the corner, as Angle slapped the Ankle Lock in on the 500-pounder! Shane and Show were in a bad way, while Regal and Angle continued to show no mercy.
- The parking lot saw WWF Superstars groan in boredom as WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin stood coolly, leaned against the hood of a car. The entire parking lot's groaned turned to eagerness however, as the fire exit doors swung open - it was Triple H! There was no waiting for Backlash between the two headliners, as the denim-clad challenger immediately shot at 'the Texas Rattlesnake' with right hands. Fists flew with the crowd of WWF Superstars led by WWF European Champion Bradshaw chanted. Austin gained the upper hand, ripping the jacket off of 'the Game's back and stomping a mudhole against a car. Triple H responded by opening a car door on Austin's head, coming back and mounting him against a car hood with punches!
Austin kicked 'the Cerebral Assassin' away and sent him into the side of a car spine-first, a spinebuster landing him on the car hood! Austin let loose with rights and lefts, but the challenger responded by switching positions. Hammering with right hands on the WWF Champion, Triple H would drag Austin to the top of the car's roof. Attempting the Pedigree, Austin would sweep the legs and 'the Game' tumbled spine-first on top of the car! Austin attempted the Stunner on 'the Game' on top of the car, when a swarm of officials and security hit the parking lot! The two main eventers scrambled to fight one another, as the rabid crowd of WWF Superstars yelled and booed. The two men had to be restrained - but Backlash was only three days away, and these two men were going to tear each other apart with the richest prize in the business at stake!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 5, 2021 13:22:19 GMT -5
THE UNDERTAKER vs CHRIS BENOIT 'The American Badass' may have come out on top at WrestleMania X-Seven, but the aggression of 'the Rabid Wolverine' saw Chris Benoit tame 'the Deadman' the following night on RAW is WAR. Destroying the veteran's kneecap with the use of a wrench in a parking lot ambush, Benoit goaded, mocked and taunted the Undertaker for weeks; even threatening to injure countless other WWF Superstars in the process. Whether 100% or not, the Undertaker made his dominant return, here to remind Benoit that the yard still belonged to him. Would 'the Deadman' succeed, or would 'the Wolverine' prove him wrong?
STEPHANIE MCMAHON vs TRISH STRATUS If physical contact is made before Backlash, the match is cancelled. The exposed love affair of Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus at WrestleMania enraged an emotional Stephanie McMahon. It ended a thirty-four year marriage to Linda McMahon, but caused irreconcilable and irreversible damage to the McMahon Family. During a contract signing between the two, the Chairman would insert a stipulation citing that no physical contact could be made ahead of Backlash. Adamantly without her lover Kurt Angle, and her brother Shane McMahon, much to the chagrin of WWF Commissioner William Regal, this was 'the Billion Dollar Princess's shot at revenge on her treacherous snake of a former friend - one-on-one. BIG SHOW vs KURT ANGLE For months, Big Show was the most loyal soldier in the Coalition faction, which was led by then-WWF Champion Kurt Angle. Yet, Big Show had not forgotten last year, when 'the Megastar' broke his ankle. He also hadn't forgotten when the Olympic Gold Medalist was responsible for costing him the WWF Championship to Stone Cold Steve Austin. 'The Giant' in turn cost Angle his number one contender's match, naming him directly responsible. Big Show was not about to do the bidding of anybody else, and was no longer tolerating the obesity slander and ridicule made by Angle. Will Angle slip away with another major victory, or will Big Show get the revenge he deserves?
FOR SHANE MCMAHON'S WWF CONTRACT WILLIAM REGAL vs SHANE MCMAHONThe stubbornness of Shane McMahon had drawn irritation from the WWF Commissioner. Having acquired WCW from under his nose, the Chairman tried to ensure Shane O'Mac would be banned from arenas nationwide. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' tried making it so - if not for Shane's still-active talent contract. In order to avoid a lawsuit, Regal personally challenged Shane to put his contract at stake. Now the Englishman was at pressure by the WWF Owner to get the job done. Would Regal regain his respect by beating Shane, or would Shane continue to be welcomed in the World Wrestling Federation? WWF TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP TABLES MATCH THE DUDLEY BOYZ (c) vs THE RADICALZ2001 was becoming the Dudley Boyz' year, becoming three-time WWF Tag Team Champions from TLC II at WrestleMania X-Seven. Being joined by their little brother Spike Dudley and an old friend, Rob Van Dam, the Dudleys had RVD's back against beatdowns from the Radicalz. The Radicalz had become meaner, sneakier, and out to do the bidding of Terri. She was humiliated to find Spike spying on her in the shower. Stirring the pot saw Perry Saturn respond violently against 'the Runt of the Dudley Litter'. Saturn and Dean Malenko were gunning for their first taste of Tag gold - while the Dudleys strived to introduce 'the She-Devil' to the wood.CHRIS JERICHO AND RAVEN vs EDGE AND CHRISTIAN The rivalry between Chris Jericho and WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven had grown complex in recent weeks, with Raven saving the day for Y2J against several threats. With wins against X-Factor, the Right to Censor and even Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H, the unholy alliance ranked high in contention to a WWF Tag Team Championship shot, which infuriated the former champs Edge and Christian. Feeling wronged, they unleashed Conchairto assaults on Y2J and Raven. As dysfunctional a team as they were, Y2J and Raven were not planning on taking the Canadians' threats lightly; they were coming for revenge.
EDDIE GUERRERO vs ROB VAN DAM 'Latino Heat' demanded a WrestleMania Moment, and he got one. His open challenge at 'the Grandaddy of Them All' was answered by Rob Van Dam, who defeated him in shockingly quick fashion. This did not sit well with Eddie Guerrero, who had been out for 'the Whole Dam Show' since. The Radicalz tried to take him out time and time again to varied results, thanks to RVD's association with the Dudley Boyz. Hotheaded, Eddie demanded respect and avenged the loss two weeks ago on RAW is WAR, but it was not yet over, with the rubber match set to take place at Backlash. It was to be a battle of Frog Splashes, but who would come out on top?
RHYNO vs JEFF HARDY'The Man-Beast' was a runaway train to be reckoned with, ever since arriving in the World Wrestling Federation at the 2001 Royal Rumble. Since then, he had been WWF Hardcore Champion and surmounted to an immaculate winning streak. Yet since WrestleMania, Rhyno's assaults have come spontaneously, with the Gore to Hulk Hogan heard around the world. Breaking the Hulkster's ribs was one thing; making Matt Hardy suffer from internal bleeding was another. Jeff Hardy was a vendetta to avenge his brother, not afraid to face the animal one-on-one. Would Hardy score his biggest win to date, or would the beast claim another victim? 3 DAYS AWAY!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 7, 2021 13:40:44 GMT -5
Jakked - April 28, 2001 Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado Broadcast in syndicationTaped on April 23, 2001
The opening video package aired, bringing us to the arena for WWF Jakked. Kevin Kelly and Jonathan Coachman welcomed us to the show, discussing events of the past week in the World Wrestling Federation - now only twenty-four hours away from WWF Backlash, live on pay-per-view!
- 1) WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac def. Derek Selsvold (3:31)Things did not go X-Factor's way when dishing out a post-match beating on Scotty 2 Hotty and Funaki thanks to Rikishi on SmackDown. X-Pac swaggered to the ring for non-title action against up-and-comer Derek Selsvold, and would arrogantly put Selsvold away with the X-Factor. After the match's conclusion, the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion would add insult to injury with the Bronco Buster. 2) K-Kwik def. Jeff Michaels (2:50)The rapper had taken care of D-Lo Brown and Albert in recent weeks, being the difference-making tag team partner of Test, and looked to continue his winning ways tonight against Jeff Michaels. Michaels, fighting out of Iowa looked to slow down K-Dawg, but would soon be the latest victim of the Mic Check allowing the quick-footed musician to add another win to his record. 3) Steve Blackman def. Race Steele (3:06)'The Lethal Weapon' had failed in his pursuit of the WWF Hardcore Champion Kane last weekend on Sunday Night Heat, but was back at it with a match against young Race Steele. Steele ran his mouth to Blackman prompting the martial artist to snap into action, and make increasingly short work of the confident youngster with the ever-swift pump kick. 4) Val Venis def. Derrick Stone (3:26)Coming off the bench of being sidelined with a torn groin, 'the Big Valbowski' announced to the world last week on Sunday Night Heat in WWF New York that he was back. In his first match tonight with Derrick Stone, Val let the ladies in the audience know that he could still go - and he proved it. A full nelson slam would put the hometown talent away, and Val would gyrate his hips for the adoring ladies in attendance after the match.
Sunday Night Heat - April 29, 2001 Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado Broadcast in syndication - International exclusiveMatches taped on April 24, 2001
The opening video package aired, bringing us to the arena where Jonathan Coachman and Michael Hayes welcomed us to a special Sunday Night Heat - hours away from WWF Backlash, live on pay-per-view!
- 1) Val Venis def. Essa Rios (3:34) 'The Big Valbowski' was hot after making his return to WWF New York last week on Sunday Night Heat, and now looked to prove to the world he still had what it took, against former WWF Light Heavyweight Champion Essa Rios. There was no talking from Venis before the bell, but Essa would mock his hip-thrusting prompting Val to go after him. Rios soared with a somersault senton plancha to the floor, but Venis would catch Rios off-guard with the Big Package to pick up his first big win coming off of a torn groin. 2) Test def. D-Lo Brown (3:55)Test prevented D-Lo Brown's interference on SmackDown, allowing Rob Van Dam to defeat his right-hand man Albert. 'The Real Deal' was alone for singles competition with Test, and quickly tried to dispatch the young stallion from Toronto with a swing of his loaded briefcase, but Test would come back with a sidewalk slam and a diving elbow drop for a near fall. Brown raked the eyes to gain an opening, but after kicking out of the Sky High, Test would catch Brown running with the big boot, to pick up a dominant victory. 3) WWF European Champion Bradshaw def. Lance Storm (3:44)The tough Texan had made a killing placing WWF Superstars' bets on the big parking lot brawl between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H, which went to a draw. Meanwhile, Lance Storm hoped to gain some steam after Rikishi made his return and sent X-Factor running, on SmackDown. The Canadian technician aimed to slow Bradshaw down, but the WWF European Champion would catch Storm off the second rope with the fallaway slam. Storm locked the Maple Leaf Crab on, but Bradshaw powered him away and equalized with the Clothesline From Hell. 4) Kane (c) def. Al Snow to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship (4:11)The head trainer of the upcoming reality TV show WWF Tough Enough had a tremendous opportunity ahead, looking to disarm the dominant WWF Hardcore Champion Kane. 'The Big Red Machine' was struck with trash cans and a kendo sticks, but despite Snow's best efforts, Kane would come back with a sidewalk slam through the trash can. Snow scored a near fall with a lead pipe, but the Snow Plow went easily reversed into the Chokeslam, allowing Kane to pick up the win, and once again set off his pyrotechnics. Who could stop the seven-foot monster?
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 13, 2021 16:35:26 GMT -5
WWF LIVE! - April 25, 2001 Los Angeles, California UPW "It's On" - Galaxy Theatre in Los Angeles, CA:
- Victoria def. Molly Holly
- Edge and Christian def. Frankie Kazarian and Nova
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 14, 2021 9:05:49 GMT -5
Sunday Night Heat - April 29, 2001 Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois Live on MTV - Live from WWF New York
He who has the gold, has the power. He who has the power, has the gold. It was a rivalry that had spanned the entirety of their World Wrestling Federation careers. Both brought to this point by one thing - the WWF Championship. They had each endured their own paths to make it to this stage, one that consisted of no turning back. Since capturing the richest prize in the business, Stone Cold Steve Austin had had eyes in the back of his head. Some said it was paranoia, others said it was determination to keep his spot at the top of the food chain. For Triple H, it was a downfall of a year followed by redemption. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' overcame the odds of career-threatening neck surgery; 'the Game' fought through the trials and tribulations of losing everything. In one of the most heated and competitive rivalries in sports entertainment history, only one man could walk out WWF Champion. The other, would be forced to embark on a new journey to the top!
We were live from Chicago, Illinois, and a sea of people were packed outside of the sold-out Allstate Arena ahead of WWF Backlash, live on pay-per-view in just shy of an hour!
Inside, Michael Cole and Tazz sat in the upper concourse of the half-filled Allstate Arena on a night where two championships would be on the line, as would the WWF contract of Shane McMahon! The two welcomed us to Sunday Night Heat, live on MTV. In a shot of Times Square, a packed house was on hand at WWF New York. Anticipating tonight, there was much at stake - as well for Vince McMahon, who awaited the carnage that was sure to ensue between his lover Trish Stratus and daughter Stephanie McMahon!
- SUNDAY NIGHT HEAT, TONIGHT: Rikishi vs Justin Credible
In WWF New York, Victoria was on hand inside the entertainment complex. Bubbly and full of excitement, the dark-haired acquaintance of Scotty 2 Hotty and the recently-returned Rikishi greeted the people of New York City. Rallying the fans with hype and anticipation, Victoria was thrilled to be the Big Apple correspondent tonight!
Michael Cole and Tazz ran down the card match per match, with nine matches expected to take place on Backlash. It was the first pay-per-view in the fallout of the biggest WrestleMania in sports entertainment history - a night where nobody could afford to lose, and one man's path would be most definitely lost forever!
BACKLASH, TONIGHT:
- Stone Cold Steve Austin (c) vs Triple H for the WWF Championship.
- Trish Stratus vs Stephanie McMahon
- The Undertaker vs Chris Benoit
- WCW Owner Shane McMahon vs WWF Commissioner William Regal, with Shane McMahon's WWF contract on the line.
- Kurt Angle vs Big Show
- The Dudley Boyz (c) vs Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko in a Tables match for the WWF Tag Team Championship.
- Eddie Guerrero vs Rob Van Dam
- Chris Jericho and Raven vs Edge and Christian
- Jeff Hardy vs Rhyno
The co-hosts discussed the history between Kurt Angle and Big Show. A fight between two WWF Champions and two former members of the Coalition. It was last year where 'the Megastar' broke the ankle of 'the Giant' with a metal door, and since then the 500-pounder had been the loyalist heavy of the Olympic Gold Medalist. Now that Kurt was no longer WWF Champion, the Big Show was sick and tired of playing second fiddle. Tazz called Big Show a mockery to sports entertainment and blamed him for Kurt Angle not being the number one contender to the WWF Championship; to which Michael Cole counteracted that it was Angle who cost Big Show the WWF Championship several weeks ago. A replay was shown, depicting Big Show going as far as to tip the Olympian's rental car upside down last week on RAW is WAR! Tazz predicted that Angle would wrestle rings around a befuddled 'Giant' tonight. Cole segued, showing footage of Angle and Commissioner William Regal putting the hurt on both Big Show and Shane McMahon as SmackDown went off the air last week.
- Commissioner William Regal arrived to his office with a grin on his face. Relieved at the prospect of peace and privacy in preparation for his match with Shane McMahon, he stumbled in to find Trish Stratus in the process of putting a bra on! Regal shielded his eyes, questioning why the WWF Diva couldn't get dressed in her boyfriend Vince McMahon's office! Trish in her bra told 'the Goodwill Ambassador' that it was her idea for the two of them to become "better acquainted". For Regal's information, the Chairman loved the idea. Trish went back to getting ready, commenting that it would be a good idea to talk strategy for their matches tonight - being up against the two McMahon children. Regal bluntly told Trish that he already had a strategy: to inflict so much pain on the dirty little toe-rag of a WCW Owner, that he wouldn't be able to go through with WCW. Trish giggled, remarking that Regal was such a stud when he was angry! Regal's eyes popped out of his head at her flirting - she was already taken by the WWF Owner!
- Having been humiliated by the returning Rikishi on SmackDown three nights ago, X-Factor wasted no time in walking the halls talking trash. Justin Credible led the way with WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac and Lance Storm accompanying him. Justin had a chance at payback - up next!
Earlier today, Triple H was seen arriving at the Allstate Arena. High times had arrived for 'the Game', ahead of the hopeful end to his year long redemption saga. It was at Backlash last year where he last held the WWF Championship. 364 days had passed, and tonight, 'the Cerebral Assassin' appeared incredibly determined in his walk to the arena - set to meet Stone Cold Steve Austin in the main event!
- X-Factor posed and strutted to the ring, the trio set for singles competition tonight on Sunday Night Heat. Not met with a positive reaction, the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac took to the microphone to address the Chicago crowd. Met with chants of "X-Pac sucks", X-Pac ran down Chicago for being the worst place he'd ever had the misfortune of stepping foot in! X-Pac told a story of stepping off the airplane to come here tonight, and immediately stepping in dog-dirt. That's how detestable the Windy City was! Lance Storm beckoned the crowd demanding seriousness, and respect for a real champ in his teammate X-Pac.
The Canadian agreed that this city was awful, but not nearly as awful as the injustice that faced them last Thursday on SmackDown. Pulling up a replay, of a gang attack from X-Factor beating down Scotty 2 Hotty and Kaientai; it was Rikishi who was the game-changer. Returning and planting the Stinkface on Justin Credible, back live Justin winced in disgust. Lance insulted the peasants for finding amusement in sticking one's buttocks in another man's face. Justin finally took the microphone, demanding Rikishi get his big fat ass out to the ring so he could kick it! Credible asked and received, as Rikishi made his way to ringside - with Scotty 2 Hotty dancing alongside him! 1) Rikishi (w/Scotty 2 Hotty) def. Justin Credible (w/X-Factor) (2:34)X-Factor were furious to see Rikishi back, as well as his backside. 'Big Kish' brought along Too Cool ally Scotty 2 Hotty to ward off X-Factor. Hitting the ring, the former WWF Intercontinental Champion immediately struck Justin Credible with force. A hip bump in the corner saw an early Stinkface attempt, when X-Factor dragged him to the floor. A face off saw WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac get in the Samoan's face, allowing Credible to get in a chop block from behind. Attempting to cut down the big man, inside the ring Credible dropped elbows on the leg before failing to apply partner Lance Storm's Maple Leaf Crab. Rikishi sent Justin into the ring post and responded with a Samoan drop, before a distraction from Storm saw Scotty jump him from behind - to be taken out with an X-Factor on the floor from X-Pac! Credible scored a super kick for a near fall, but when attempting That's Incredible, Rikishi reversed with a belly-to-back suplex - to pick up his first win back from injury!
Rikishi was victorious against Justin Credible in his first outing since separating his shoulder back in January. Immediately coming to the knocked-down Scotty 2 Hotty's aid at ringside, he duked it out with Lance Storm before tossing him into the ring! Storm tried fighting him with a baseball slide, only for 'Big Kish' to trap the Canadian with a rapid succession of headbutts! The hip bump rocked Storm in the corner, and the Stinkface was delivered! The Samoan helped Scotty 2 Hotty to his feet, as WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac protested on his own from the aisle. Too Cool were back, and X-Factor was at the top of the big man's list!
- WrestleMania saw a hard-fought war of attrition between the Undertaker and Chris Benoit, but in the end it was 'the American Badass' who prevailed victorious. With his ninth straight victory at 'the Grandaddy of Them All', 'the Rabid Wolverine' responded poorly the next night on RAW is WAR. Ambushing 'the Deadman' in the parking lot, not only would 'the Crippler' destroy the Undertaker's kneecap with a steel wrench, but he would knock his motorcycle onto the leg, wrecking it! Benoit ran his mouth for weeks, injuring WWF Superstars - until Undertaker made his return. No fear instilled in him, Undertaker vowed to make Benoit pay for dear life at Backlash. Yet Undertaker's condition was still in question, being the brunt of several attacks on his leg by the calculatedly cold Benoit. Who would come out on top in their rematch tonight; 'the Deadman' or 'the Wolverine?'
Michael Cole and Tazz were debating the war path of 'the Man-Beast' from the skybox overlooking Allstate Arena. Now just over forty minutes away from Backlash, Cole argued that Rhyno's assault on Hulk Hogan had led to great speculation that he was in cohoots with former ECW employer Paul Heyman. Tazz defended Heyman, calling him a broadcast colleague from RAW is WAR. Paul was no longer in charge of ECW, and Tazz brought up how unprofessional Jeff Hardy's treatment of him was. Cole showed footage from RAW is WAR several weeks ago, how Rhyno poked Team Xtreme by putting Matt Hardy on the shelf with the Gore. Then, three days ago on SmackDown, Rhyno struck Matt's girlfriend Lita with the Gore! To add on to that, Rhyno made it a clean sweep with the Gore to Jeff Hardy into steel shutters. Cole believed Jeff was hot, and could pose a threat to Rhyno's path of mayhem. Tazz laughed at Cole's hypothetical.
- Edge and Christian were backstage talking about how grotesque and morose the pizza they got for lunch was. Edge questioned the sincerity of Chicago for their quality of pizza, when in walked Jonathan Coachman to their chagrin. Edge and Christian mocked the Coach for wanting an interview, but they did had something to say to their opponents tonight, Chris Jericho and Raven. They were so relieved six nights ago on RAW, when they thought they'd finally made Chris Jericho shut the hell up with the Conchairto to the ribcage. But then Y2J came back, which was what nobody had asked for! Christian made fun of Jericho's bruised ribs, which sounded like a xylophone when struck with steel.
Edge added that if that was something, Coach could only imagine the damage they were going to do to Raven tonight. Christian noted how he got the pinfall win over the WWF Intercontinental Champion on SmackDown; but they were still looking at their goal of becoming three-time WWF Tag Team Champions. Edge was annoyed at the fact Y2J and Raven were closer to the titles than they were. In their minds, they should've still been WWF Tag Team Champions! Christian concluded that tonight would totally reek of awesomeness - when they mop Y2J's body off the mat with Raven's slimy, sludgy and grotesque hair. The ecstatic brothers performed their secret handshake before leaving.
- D-Lo Brown spoke with Albert backstage in the locker room. 'The Real Deal' was dressed to the nines in a red tracksuit, which he spared no expense for. They had rented their own locker room for tonight - to find they weren't even on the card! Brown grimaced acknowledging Chicago as his home city, and not even having a match. Since winning big with the lottery, he'd done everything he could to get out of this city. He'd grown up here, born and raised - but now it was time for a change. D-Lo considered moving to a holiday home of his, out in Clearwater, Florida. 'The Freight Train' questioned what was in it for him, D-Lo told Albert that he was on his payroll! D-Lo had an idea for him, too. With this space, they were going to make things happen for them! D-Lo planned to open a challenge for anybody to take on Albert tonight on Sunday Night Heat, and he knew Albert would make him a lot of money.
- In a Street Fight pitting father against son, and WWF Owner versus WCW Owner at WrestleMania, it was Shane McMahon who came out on top. In light of Vince McMahon's budding affair with Trish Stratus, Shane O'Mac would not let it go. Appearing from WWF New York, and even confronting Vince in the middle of the ring; Shane was determined to make life hard for the Chairman. Vince took his frustration out on the Shane-appointed WWF Commissioner William Regal, demanding he make things change. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' hoped to ban Shane from WWF buildings, only to go thwarted at every turn. The reason being: Shane had lost authority, but he still had a talent contract. Regal was disrespected by a slap in the face, and that's all it took for Shane to be on the Commissioner's chopping block. With Shane's WWF Superstar contract on the line tonight, Regal hoped to rid the company of the WCW Owner once and for all - now, there was no more fooling around in the Commissioner's mind!
The Chairman's office door was shown, with it being announced that we would hear from the boss himself tonight on Sunday Night Heat. Vince McMahon was here, and would be interviewed by a patient Lilian Garcia - up next!
Live from WWF New York, Victoria was hanging out in the crowd of the entertainment complex. People were having fun and waiting for WWF Backlash, just over half an hour away. Surveying fans in attendance as to who they thought would come out on top, a group of three people argued between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H. Victoria concluded that it was a big money match, with the WWF Championship at stake - the entire world was split, and either man could come out victorious!
- Vince McMahon stood in the hall outside his office, standing by with Lilian Garcia. The ring announcer asked the Chairman what his ideal outcome of tonight would be after Backlash was done, where both of his children would compete; as well as his mistress. The boss was offended by Vince's assumption that Trish Stratus was "just" a mistress. Vince believed her to be the biggest blessing to come to his personal life in years. Quite frankly, Vince would normally wish his children the best unconditionally. Yet in light of everything Shane and Stephanie McMahon had put him through this past few months - he had no choice but to remain on the fence.
Vince told Lilian to think of it as a punishment, and hopefully they would each learn their lesson - that they don't cross their father! Vince hoped Commissioner William Regal would do something right for the first time in his life, and beat Shane McMahon to banish the WCW Owner from the World Wrestling Federation - that much was obvious. It was poor business practice for another owner to be present in a rival organization. As for 'the Billion Dollar Princess' - Vince hoped Stephanie would reconsider her position, both as a daughter and for her future's sake, once Trish was finished kicking her butt all around Chicago. Lilian questioned if Vince could forgive Steph after tonight, and her father agreed - but first, she had to pay the price.
- Stephanie McMahon's life had undergone some serious stress since the McMahon Family war began last December with Vince McMahon's return, but it only hit a boiling point when Vince McMahon was revealed to be having an affair with her friend Trish Stratus. It broke 'the Billion Dollar Princess's trust, and since WrestleMania she'd been out to make Vince and Trish's lives hell - whether it was scrapping with the WWF Diva, tearing off her blouse, or even slapping her father. The Chairman moderated a contract signing between the two former friends, with harsh words exchanged. It was to be a no-contact agreement signed as well, but in the process of the signing, Trish assaulted Steph from behind! Then signing the contract herself, the two could not touch the other until Backlash. Trish made fun of her weight and pulled up edited pictures of fat babies and obese women in bikinis to look like Stephanie. It was an attempt at provoking her, but Steph reacted calmly. Instead, she warned Trish that she was going to dismantle the new 'Daddy's Little Girl!'
Chris Jericho was searching the halls for the whereabouts of his so-called tag team partner Raven. The WWF Intercontinental Champion had pulled a vanishing act, on the same night they were scheduled to meet Edge and Christian in a match with title implications. Y2J finally bumped into Tori, who he quizzed about her little boyfriend. Tori honestly said she hadn't got a clue, that she hadn't seen Raven since Thursday night. She added that the last time she saw him, he walked off into the pouring rain alone. Jericho spoke seriously as he said he didn't trust her as much as he didn't trust Raven: she was the reason that Y2J lost the title in the Astrodome Asylum match at WrestleMania. Yet, Jericho demanded she help find Raven, because tonight was their shot at revenge on the two dopes that attacked them both this past week. Jericho demanded Raven be here now, and Tori assured Chris that he would be. Y2J threatened Tori - he'd better show up.
- Rob Van Dam had adopted a new method of stretching, with his legs spread in the splits position, atop two steel chairs! Stretching his groin ahead of the rubber match with Eddie Guerrero, in walked the Dudley Boyz who spoke of tonight being go-time for the four of them. For the WWF Tag Team Champions, Bubba Ray Dudley remarked that tonight was their chance of a lifetime at not just putting two Radicalz through tables - but the three of them, including Terri! D-Von Dudley testified, and Spike Dudley concurred. The three high-fived RVD told them when asked that he was cool, but what 'Latino Heat' did to him on SmackDown this past week was not cool. Van Dam planned to show Eddie up worse than he did at WrestleMania. He was 'Mr. Pay-Per-View'; 'the Whole Dam Show'; 'the Human Highlight Reel' - and tonight, if Eddie was feeling froggy, with him flat on the back looking up at the lights, RVD was going to show him what a Five-Star Frog Splash looked like first hand.
- 2) Val Venis def. Albert (w/D-Lo Brown) (3:24)D-Lo Brown was vexed to be in his hometown of Chicago and not receive an ovation, but had sent Albert for an open challenge to make the two of them money. Met by the returning Val Venis, 'the Big Valbowski' returned to a big ovation. Immediately ducking a clothesline and sending D-Lo from the ring, Val unloaded on Albert. With ten punches in the corner, Venis wore 'the Freight Train' down with clotheslines until being derailed by a shoulder block. The wall of a man hit a gorilla press slam and followed with the big splash. Sending Val from the ring for a clothesline from 'the Real Deal', Albert drove Val spine-first into the ring post, before rolling him back inside. The corner splash paved the way for the bicycle kick but Val dodged it and connected with the full nelson slam for a near fall! Val went for the Money Shot when D-Lo got on the apron, for Val to kick him away. Albert caught him with a spinout torture rack slam, but out walked Test to ringside - decking D-Lo with the Big Boot! Albert was distracted, and Val pulled off the win with the bridging fisherman suplex - the Big Package!
In his return to in-ring competition, 'the Big Valbowski' had pulled out what could be considered an upset against Albert, in the open challenge designed by D-Lo Brown! 'The Real Deal' laid prone on his back on the floor, while Test backed up the aisleway with a huge grin on his face. Weeks of distractions and costing each other matches had led the former tag team, T&A, down this path, and in the process it afforded Val Venis to make an impact in his return to the ring!
- A video package caught up with what the former WWF Champion had been up to since WrestleMania X-Seven. The Rock had left to be a Hollywood film star, performing on the set of his first major motion picture - the Mummy Returns. In interviews with his fellow cast members, everybody spoke fondly of 'the Brahma Bull', who in a brief interview spoke of how wonderful an experience this production was - one that he would never, ever forget. If Ya Smell What The Rock is Cookin!'
The WWF Women's Champion Chyna was posing against a grey backdrop in the backstage area. Performing a photoshoot, her boyfriend 'the One' Billy Gunn complimented and applauded 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' on her posing. Up walked Crash in a red sparkling dress and a blonde wig, demanding to know when his photoshoot would be! Billy confronted him and told Crash to knock it off, only for Crash to refuse to admit it was him! Calling himself "Crashley", he thought it was offensive what she was doing - attacking her family like that. The Fighting Holly Cousins deserved better treatment, and Chyna was a poor role model to women like him! Billy could not refrain from laughter, as Molly Holly approached the scene to ask what the heck Crash was up to! Molly spotted her own dress from a mile away, and upon being caught in the act - Crash ran from the scene! All the while, the WWF Women's Champion remained aloof to what was going on outside of the photoshoot.
- Michael Cole and Tazz stood in the upper concourse of the Allstate Arena. Moments away from Backlash, live on pay-per-view, they took the time to recap the line-up for tonight's extravaganza again. The two then discussed the damages that Rhyno had done in previous weeks, taking out a whole host of WWF Superstars seemingly at random. Tazz chuckled as Cole mentioned the broken ribs sustained to Hulk Hogan by 'the Man-Beast', but Cole remained focused on the Gores for Team Xtreme in the last couple of weeks.
Live from WWF New York, Michael Cole introduced a special guest - the recovering Matt Hardy. Matt provided an update on his health after suffering from internal bleeding, brought on by not just the severity of Tables, Ladders and Chairs at WrestleMania - but the Gore received from Rhyno. Matt couldn't handle what Rhyno was doing to Team Xtreme. It was one thing to take him out of action with internal bleeding, and another to Gore his brother Jeff Hardy. But his own girlfriend Lita? Matt angrily spoke of Lita being the girl of his dreams, and that Rhyno was an animal. Yet Matt knew how tenacious and tough Jeff was - his younger brother had soared off ladders, been through tables and been struck with steel chairs before. Jeff was resilient, and tonight Matt truly believed that Jeff would bring honor to the Hardy Boyz' name - by making sure of it that Rhyno was tamed at Backlash!
Tazz made fun of Matt Hardy for sitting on the bench unable to do anything to save his brother Jeff Hardy or girlfriend Lita, to which Michael Cole demanded Tazz show some temerity as a co-host. The two squabbled, bringing Cole to wrap up Sunday Night Heat for tonight, with Backlash going live on the air in just a few moments on pay-per-view!
- Stone Cold Steve Austin accomplished the goal he set out to do for close to two years, with his win against The Rock in the main event of WrestleMania. It made the career-threatening neck injury; the surgery and the rehabilitation worth it for 'the Texas Rattlesnake', as he reclaimed his throne as WWF Champion. Triple H accomplished a pinnacle victory in his career against Shawn Michaels in an all-out instant classic. Yet now the dust had simmered, these two career rivals had made it to this point. Stone Cold had eyes in the back of his head, from blind-sighted attacks from the likes of Kurt Angle and Big Show.
It was Triple H who came to his aid, and then would emerge as number one contender. One year of redemption for 'the Game' led him here, having lost everything and worked his way back to the gold. Being forced to team up, there was no love, as Austin would give 'the Game' the Stunner on two separate occasions. Triple H finally had enough, with arena-wide brawls and parking lot melees before the big showdown. Tonight, something had to give. With the WWF Championship at stake, one man's fairytale would have a happy ending - the other would be left in agonizing defeat!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 14, 2021 16:45:24 GMT -5
THE UNDERTAKER vs CHRIS BENOIT 'The American Badass' may have come out on top at WrestleMania X-Seven, but the aggression of 'the Rabid Wolverine' saw Chris Benoit tame 'the Deadman' the following night on RAW is WAR. Destroying the veteran's kneecap with the use of a wrench in a parking lot ambush, Benoit goaded, mocked and taunted the Undertaker for weeks; even threatening to injure countless other WWF Superstars in the process. Whether 100% or not, the Undertaker made his dominant return, here to remind Benoit that the yard still belonged to him. Would 'the Deadman' succeed, or would 'the Wolverine' prove him wrong?
STEPHANIE MCMAHON vs TRISH STRATUS If physical contact is made before Backlash, the match is cancelled. The exposed love affair of Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus at WrestleMania enraged an emotional Stephanie McMahon. It ended a thirty-four year marriage to Linda McMahon, but caused irreconcilable and irreversible damage to the McMahon Family. During a contract signing between the two, the Chairman would insert a stipulation citing that no physical contact could be made ahead of Backlash. Adamantly without her lover Kurt Angle, and her brother Shane McMahon, much to the chagrin of WWF Commissioner William Regal, this was 'the Billion Dollar Princess's shot at revenge on her treacherous snake of a former friend - one-on-one. BIG SHOW vs KURT ANGLE For months, Big Show was the most loyal soldier in the Coalition faction, which was led by then-WWF Champion Kurt Angle. Yet, Big Show had not forgotten last year, when 'the Megastar' broke his ankle. He also hadn't forgotten when the Olympic Gold Medalist was responsible for costing him the WWF Championship to Stone Cold Steve Austin. 'The Giant' in turn cost Angle his number one contender's match, naming him directly responsible. Big Show was not about to do the bidding of anybody else, and was no longer tolerating the obesity slander and ridicule made by Angle. Will Angle slip away with another major victory, or will Big Show get the revenge he deserves?
FOR SHANE MCMAHON'S WWF CONTRACT WILLIAM REGAL vs SHANE MCMAHONThe stubbornness of Shane McMahon had drawn irritation from the WWF Commissioner. Having acquired WCW from under his nose, the Chairman tried to ensure Shane O'Mac would be banned from arenas nationwide. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' tried making it so - if not for Shane's still-active talent contract. In order to avoid a lawsuit, Regal personally challenged Shane to put his contract at stake. Now the Englishman was at pressure by the WWF Owner to get the job done. Would Regal regain his respect by beating Shane, or would Shane continue to be welcomed in the World Wrestling Federation? WWF TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP TABLES MATCH THE DUDLEY BOYZ (c) vs THE RADICALZ2001 was becoming the Dudley Boyz' year, becoming three-time WWF Tag Team Champions from TLC II at WrestleMania X-Seven. Being joined by their little brother Spike Dudley and an old friend, Rob Van Dam, the Dudleys had RVD's back against beatdowns from the Radicalz. The Radicalz had become meaner, sneakier, and out to do the bidding of Terri. She was humiliated to find Spike spying on her in the shower. Stirring the pot saw Perry Saturn respond violently against 'the Runt of the Dudley Litter'. Saturn and Dean Malenko were gunning for their first taste of Tag gold - while the Dudleys strived to introduce 'the She-Devil' to the wood.CHRIS JERICHO AND RAVEN vs EDGE AND CHRISTIAN The rivalry between Chris Jericho and WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven had grown complex in recent weeks, with Raven saving the day for Y2J against several threats. With wins against X-Factor, the Right to Censor and even Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H, the unholy alliance ranked high in contention to a WWF Tag Team Championship shot, which infuriated the former champs Edge and Christian. Feeling wronged, they unleashed Conchairto assaults on Y2J and Raven. As dysfunctional a team as they were, Y2J and Raven were not planning on taking the Canadians' threats lightly; they were coming for revenge.
EDDIE GUERRERO vs ROB VAN DAM 'Latino Heat' demanded a WrestleMania Moment, and he got one. His open challenge at 'the Grandaddy of Them All' was answered by Rob Van Dam, who defeated him in shockingly quick fashion. This did not sit well with Eddie Guerrero, who had been out for 'the Whole Dam Show' since. The Radicalz tried to take him out time and time again to varied results, thanks to RVD's association with the Dudley Boyz. Hotheaded, Eddie demanded respect and avenged the loss two weeks ago on RAW is WAR, but it was not yet over, with the rubber match set to take place at Backlash. It was to be a battle of Frog Splashes, but who would come out on top?
RHYNO vs JEFF HARDY'The Man-Beast' was a runaway train to be reckoned with, ever since arriving in the World Wrestling Federation at the 2001 Royal Rumble. Since then, he had been WWF Hardcore Champion and surmounted to an immaculate winning streak. Yet since WrestleMania, Rhyno's assaults have come spontaneously, with the Gore to Hulk Hogan heard around the world. Breaking the Hulkster's ribs was one thing; making Matt Hardy suffer from internal bleeding was another. Jeff Hardy was a vendetta to avenge his brother, not afraid to face the animal one-on-one. Would Hardy score his biggest win to date, or would the beast claim another victim? TONIGHT!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 15, 2021 11:24:10 GMT -5
Backlash - April 29, 2001Allstate Arena in Chicago, IllinoisLive on Pay-Per-View - Sponsored by Castrol GTX "Frenzy"
He who has the gold, has the power. He who has the power, has the gold. It was a rivalry that had spanned the entirety of their World Wrestling Federation careers. Both brought to this point by one thing - the WWF Championship. They had each endured their own paths to make it to this stage, one that consisted of no turning back. Since capturing the richest prize in the business, Stone Cold Steve Austin had had eyes in the back of his head. Some said it was paranoia, others said it was determination to keep his spot at the top of the food chain. For Triple H, it was a downfall of a year followed by redemption. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' overcame the odds of career-threatening neck surgery; 'the Game' fought through the trials and tribulations of losing everything. In one of the most heated and competitive rivalries in sports entertainment history, only one man could walk out WWF Champion. The other, would be forced to embark on a new journey to the top!
The opening graphic aired, bringing us to a sold-out house on hand in the Allstate Arena for WWF Backlash! Live on pay-per-view, pyrotechnics erupted across the stage unveiling the long metallic branches of the stage. Chicago, Illinois was electric for the first pay-per-view extravaganza in the fallout of WrestleMania X-Seven. Jim Ross and Paul Heyman sat at the announce table, welcoming us to the show, on a night where two WWF championships would be decided - and the McMahon Family children would be thrust into combat! A live shot of WWF New York's entertainment complex was shown, where fans in New York City, New York were also seen witnessing Backlash!
The Radicalz made their precedented arrival to a chorus of boos. Leading the way saw Perry Saturn wearing a mean grimace on his face, to accompany the black fuzzy hat atop his head. Hand-in-hand with the scarcely-dressed 'She-Devil' Terri, she guided the way for both her boyfriend as well as the steel face protector adorned Dean Malenko. Terri was dressed for the occasion in a risque silver ballgown with cleavage on full display, knowing that this was a major opportunity for her boys - to capture the WWF Tag Team Championships. A replay aired showing the Radicalz' set-up assault on Spike Dudley in the locker room area two weeks ago on RAW is WAR; followed by the Dudley Boyz kidnapping Terri and threatening her with the wood six nights ago. A rocket bombarded the stage in an explosion, bringing out Spike Dudley and his older brothers the Dudley Boyz! The champs carried a table with them, as the three Dudleys immediately paced to the ring!1) WWF Tag Team Championship - Tag Team Tables Match The Dudley Boyz (w/Spike Dudley) (c) vs Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko (w/Terri) The Dudley Boyz recaptured the WWF Tag Team Championship at WrestleMania, outlasting Edge and Christian and the Hardy Boyz in Tables, Ladders and Chairs II. Renowning themselves the most dominant tag team in the division, in the weeks following D-Von, Bubba Ray and Spike Dudley also had the back of a former ECW war buddy, Rob Van Dam, who waged battle with Eddie Guerrero and the rest of the Radicalz. When Spike was caught peeking on Terri in the shower, the Radicalz responded with a calculated setup two weeks ago: Eddie and Dean Malenko locked the Dudleys in their locker room for Perry Saturn to launch an assault on Spike. Six nights ago, the Dudleys would get even by kidnapping Terri and threatening to powerbomb her from a loading dock through a table. This past week on SmackDown! Spike made his return to rescue his brothers from the Radicalz - but tonight with the tables legal, one team would go through them and walk out the champs.
Fists flew as the bell sounded, with 'the She-Devil' watching nervously from ringside. D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley had wasted no time combating Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko in a four-man brawl to start. The WWF Tag Team Champions quickly gained the opening, with Dean Malenko being sent from the ring with a right hand from Bubba! Saturn tried to brawl with D-Von to gain the upper-hand, when the Dudley Boyz began taking it in turns throttling Saturn, until he flopped right onto his face! The challengers retreated to ringside, where Terri cuddled her boyfriend. As the Dudleys high-fived Spike Dudley on the apron and rallied the Chicago crowd, the Radicalz would slowly regroup before re-entering. D-Von and Bubba rushed Saturn and Malenko only for the challengers to turn the other cheek in corresponding corners. The challengers whipped the Dudleys into one another, just for the champs to twirl one-another around - stereo clotheslines knocking down the Radicalz!
The WWF Tag Team Champions delivered a double suplex to the mentally unhinged Perry Saturn, when Dean Malenko cheap shotted D-Von from behind. Malenko jumped on Bubba as well, who responded by decking Malenko in the corner. Saturn jumped Bubba Ray from behind, allowing the Radicalz to shine with a crescent kick from Malenko leading to a German suplex from Saturn! Rolling out to the floor, Bubba was taunted by Terri who laughed in his face. Bubba would recover and look her in the eyes widely, but before anything could transpire, Saturn connected with a baseball slide! Sending Bubba into the barricade, Saturn grabbed a table and gorilla pressed Bubba ribs-first over the barricade! Inside, D-Von's DDT attempt went awry as Malenko responded with a gutbuster. A baseball slide to Bubba at ringside enabled the Radicalz to hone in on D-Von inside the ring. Grabbing the wood, the Radicalz set it up and attempted a double suplex on D-Von, when Bubba slipped inside and dumped the table upside down!
The suplex landed, when Bubba took Saturn and Malenko off their feet with a double clothesline! Bubba continued striking out against the Radicalz to Spike Dudley's eagerness, but Saturn would cut him off with a T-bone suplex! Perry and Dean Malenko were back in control, putting the boots to the champs while Terri smiled from the corner. With gold in her boys' eyes, Dean set up the table close to the corner as Saturn sat on the top rope. They looked to take a page from the Dudleys' repertoire, with Malenko muscling D-Von to the top rope just for D-Von to come back with right hands! Malenko surprised him with a knee to the gut, and a double flapjack landed off the ropes! Bubba joined Saturn on the top rope, duking it out one-on-one. Battling in a precarious position, D-Von would join the fun: and together, the Dudleys would deliver a double superplex to Saturn! Without his face protector, Malenko walked into the body slam from Bubba paving the way for the Wazzup to go executed!
Bubba Ray shoved his half-brother D-Von and demanded the tables, with Allstate Arena chanting along! Setting it up, Dean Malenko low blowed Bubba and hit the ropes - only for D-Von to catch him, and the 3D would see Dean Malenko eliminated! (6:26) With one man down, the Dudley Boyz showboated to the hot Illinois crowd in attendance before spotting 'the She-Devil' Terri on the floor. Bubba Ray leaned over and foreshadowed her inevitable future, but in the process Saturn came from behind. Using Malenko's steel face protector as a weapon, down went D-Von Dudley hard! Bubba would receive a shot from the steel as well, when in ran a hot Spike Dudley! Rolling up his sleeves, Spike battled his locker room attacker, only to be stopped dead with a death valley driver! Saturn grabbed a table from ringside and set it up in the ring, before soon helping the eliminated Malenko to his feet.
There were no disqualifications, but the eliminated Dean Malenko assisted Perry Saturn in putting the boots to Bubba Ray Dudley! D-Von Dudley remained knocked out on the floor, as the Radicalz positioned Bubba on the top rope. With the table located beneath them, Saturn and Malenko attempted a double superplex of their own - but Spike would return to the fold! Dragging Malenko down from the second rope, the feisty youngster hammered Malenko in his unprotected face - the Dudley Dog taking Malenko out of the match once more! Terri soon pulled Spike from the ring beneath the ropes, immediately getting into 'the Runt of the Dudley Litter's face. The two argue, while back inside an undeterred Saturn prepared to deliver a top rope hurricanrana to Bubba through the wood. Instead, Bubba hung on and powered Saturn - a second rope powerbomb causing Perry Saturn's elimination! (10:22)Winners, and still WWF Tag Team Champions: The Dudley Boyz (10:22) The Radicalz tried everything only to come up short, as the WWF Tag Team Championships remained in the custody of the Dudley Boyz. Perry Saturn laid motionless in the heap of the table, while Dean Malenko's exposed face remained out of it from the Dudley Dog. D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley's hands were raised in victory; D-Von feeling the effects of the steel face protector shot. At ringside, Spike Dudley argued with Terri, who took a swing only for Bubba to grab her by the hair! Dragged into the ring, Bubba gave a thousand yard stare to the WWF Diva, who screamed in panic. D-Von left the ring to return with a third table - this one marked with "TERRI" graffitied on it. She kicked and screamed, set atop Bubba's shoulders on the second rope by D-Von. Upskirted and all, Terri faced a second-rope powerbomb through the table from the perverse Bubba Ray Dudley! It was a clean sweep for the Dudleys tonight - the first of two major titles defended tonight at Backlash!
Outside of the AllState Arena was shown, a cloudy night in Chicago, Illinois. WWF Backlash was off and rolling with the first WWF championship successfully defended - but there was one more title on the line tonight: the WWF Championship.
Earlier tonight on Sunday Night Heat, Chris Jericho searched the halls for the whereabouts of his so-called tag team partner Raven. The WWF Intercontinental Champion had pulled a vanishing act, on the same night they were scheduled to meet Edge and Christian in a match with title implications. Y2J finally bumped into Tori, who he quizzed about her little boyfriend. Tori honestly said she hadn't got a clue, that she hadn't seen Raven since Thursday night. She added that the last time she saw him, he walked off into the pouring rain alone. Jericho spoke seriously as he said he didn't trust her as much as he didn't trust Raven: she was the reason that Y2J lost the title in the Astrodome Asylum match at WrestleMania. Yet, Jericho demanded she help find Raven, because tonight was their shot at revenge on the two dopes that attacked them both this past week. Jericho demanded Raven be here now, and Tori assured Chris that he would be. Y2J threatened Tori - he'd better show up.
- Chris Jericho flexed his wrists backstage, Michael Cole standing by for an interview. Cole questioned how far the trust went between he and Raven went, to which Y2J admitted there was such little trust between he and the WWF Intercontinental Champion, he didn't know where he was tonight. Still no sign of Raven, he didn't know what the hell he did in his spare time. Y2J didn't know if he slept in the slums, hung upside down in some cave like a bat, or moonlighted as a shrink. Jericho remained confident Raven would show up tonight, because it was their chance to kick Edge and Christian's asses: the same Edge and Christian that bruised his ribs on Monday night on RAW is WAR; and the same Edge and Christian that beat Raven on SmackDown! Y2J knew the tag team division was dog-eat-dog, and he was sure they were in line for a title shot - but if Raven didn't show up tonight - so be it, Y2J planned hunting him down. With or without Raven, the two assclowns Edge and Christian were going down!
Eddie Guerrero sauntered out to the Allstate Arena to loud boos from the Chicago crowd. Poised with cockiness, 'Latino Heat' walked the aisle shaking his head at the carnage of the tables still being taken away from production crew members. The Radicalz had lost the WWF Tag Team Championship Tables match, but Eddie still looked for revenge on Rob Van Dam. Wearing black tights with red and gold accents, Guerrero slid into the ring and showboated on the second turnbuckle - when Rob Van Dam's opening blast of pyrotechnics interrupted him! "RVD" chants packed the building, as the ECW alumni paced down the aisle to the ring. Determined and mentally prepared, 'Mr. Pay-Per-View' pointed his thumbs at himself to the people's cheers, before rolling into the ring. After some trash talking with Eddie, RVD posed and shrugged on the second rope, opposite the ring from 'Latino Heat'.
2) Eddie Guerrero vs Rob Van Dam 'Latino Heat's WrestleMania moment did not turn out to be what he expected; his open challenge at 'the Grandaddy of Them All' accepted by former ECW extremist Rob Van Dam. RVD put Eddie Guerrero away in humiliatingly short fashion, which only infuriated Eddie, who was seeking the respect that he and the Radicalz all felt they deserved. Alongside Perry Saturn, Dean Malenko and Terri, Eddie set out to settle the score with 'the Whole Dam Show', who was aided in his battles oftentimes by the Dudley Boyz. Two weeks ago on RAW is WAR, Eddie stole a victory over RVD coming off the distraction on the TitanTron, which depicted Perry Saturn assaulting Spike Dudley in the locker room. Eddie had avenged the loss by cheating to win, though they were now one win apiece. Ever the hothead, Eddie lashed out with a post-match beatdown of Van Dam after he put away Albert three days ago on SmackDown. Tonight was to be a battle of the Frog Splashes in the rubber match, but who would be the better man?
In an orange, white and black airbrushed singlet, Rob Van Dam circled the ring with an overly eager Eddie Guerrero. Soon locking up, Eddie exploded forcing Van Dam into the corner. He turned it around on Eddie and threw several forearm strikes, which in turn caused Eddie to launch back with right hands of his own. Van Dam caught Eddie with an armdrag and a legsweep for a one-count, before both men jumped to their feet in a stalemate! Eddie laughed and encouraged RVD to try that trick again, and on a second collar-and-elbow tie-up, Eddie was able to win the exchange with a headlock takedown. RVD wrapped his legs around Eddie's head to escape, but Eddie used a headstand to land onto his feet - swiftly locking in a mounted headlock again. Applying pressure, 'Latino Heat' was having fun until RVD brought him to his feet. Sending Eddie off the ropes, Van Dam dropped down with a legsplit and attempted the monkey flip.
Eddie telegraphed it but missed an elbow drop, when Van Dam aimed and missed a somersault senton! The two sprung to their feet as quick as cats, bringing Chicago to their feet! The two athletes were evenly matches, when 'Latino Heat' piefaced Rob Van Dam with his palm and talked trash! 'Mr. Pay-Per-View' threw a roundhouse kick that Guerrero ducked, when a legsweep took him down for a standing moonsault! It got RVD a near fall, when Van Dam clubbed Eddie with elbows in the corner. He would whip Eddie just for him to reverse it. Van Dam handsprung out of the corner and captured Eddie with a sunset flip for a one-count, when Eddie leaned up hooking the legs for a two-count. Van Dam nipped to his feet, only to be axed with a clothesline from behind! Tired of playing fair, the cheap shot saw Eddie grow confident in slapping his chest with poise. Aggressively stomping Van Dam in the corner, Eddie snapmared the ECW alum into a dropkick to the back of the head.
Kneeling over RVD's windpipe, Eddie Guerrero arrogantly dropped two knees to the cranium of 'the Whole Dam Show' before covering for a near fall. The Allstate Arena chanted for RVD, as Eddie applied a grounded sleeper on the canvas. Slowly willed to his feet by the fans, Eddie would pull RVD's ponytail to drag him back down to the mat! Scraping the sole of his boot over Van Dam's forehead, Eddie tugged on RVD's hands whilst standing on Van Dam's hair! Van Dam was able to turn it into a victory roll for a two-count, when a monkey flip from Van Dam's feet sent Eddie halfway across the ring, and out to the floor! 'Latino Heat' was now on the defensive, when Van Dam executed a somersault senton plancha! 'The Whole Dam Show' posed for the crowd, before picking Eddie up and forearm striking him against the barricade. With a suplex, Guerrero landed rib-first draped across the barricade. Springing to the apron, Van Dam pointed his thumbs to himself before landing a spinning kick across the back of Eddie!
Chicago were now loud for Rob Van Dam, who rolled Eddie Guerrero slowly back into the ring by the count of eight. Launched from the top rope with a split-legged moonsault, RVD covered for another near fall. Not letting up, 'Mr. Pay-Per-View' set up his next attack when Eddie raked the eyes! Thrusting Van Dam into the air, Guerrero caught him with a dropkick on the way down, soon toying with the newcomer with some kicks to the spine! Guerrero tortured Van Dam with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker off the ropes, soon bending RVD grossly across his knee for pressure - his hands in Van Dam's mouth! Guerrero applied a Mexican surfboard stretch on RVD, with the flexibility of Van Dam seeing him folding backwards like an accordion! In agony, RVD was somehow able to sit back on Eddie from a heightened position, Eddie's shoulders down for a close call! This prompted Eddie to break it, and put more aggressively stomps to Van Dam!
'Latino Heat' was finished playing around, climbing out to the apron and setting up a slingshot rolling senton, just for Rob Van Dam to roll out of the way! Van Dam caught Eddie upside the jaw with a swift side kick to the jaw sending him down hard, before delivering with the Rolling Thunder. "RVD" chants echoed throughout the Allstate Arena, as Rob zipped to the top rope in preparation for the Five-Star Frog Splash! RVD got ready to fly, but Eddie was able to make a recovery and meet Van Dam on the top rope. A top rope hurricanrana saw both men flop to the canvas below, when Eddie covered for another two count! Guerrero grew agitated, putting more boots to Van Dam's spine before attempting the brainbuster - for RVD to catch him with an inside cradle! Eddie kicked out, and caught Van Dam with the back suplex! Eddie was feeling froggy and soared with the Frog Splash, but Van Dam got his knees up! A rolling fireman's carry connected, paving the way for the Five-Star Frog Splash - to pick up the win!Winner: Rob Van Dam (13:20) In what had to have been Rob Van Dam's toughest battle thus far in his World Wrestling Federation journey, RVD had come out victorious in this rubber match with a hotheaded Eddie Guerrero! With his hand raised in victory, 'Latino Heat' could be seen cursing under his breath from the corner, clutching his ribs. Van Dam pointed his thumbs at himself, before stepping up to the second rope in victory. "RVD" chants continued to echo throughout Chicago's Allstate Arena - how high could RVD fly after this series with Guerrero?
Commissioner William Regal put his foot up on a steel chair in his office, preparing to lace his boots ahead of his match with Shane McMahon tonight. Suddenly he grew perturbed, seeing Trish Stratus bend in front of him, her derriere practically in his face! 'The Goodwill Ambassador' voiced his concern to the WWF Diva, commenting how distracting it had to be for him; her waggling her little bottom in his face at every corner! Trish was apologetic, sorry that William felt that way - but this was the arrangement set out by Vince McMahon. Trish reminded Regal that it was the Chairman's idea for them to discuss strategy ahead of their matches with the McMahon Family children, leaving Regal to grovel in reluctance.
A replay aired, taking us back to SmackDown three nights ago, where after her match with Molly Holly, Lita wound up the recipient of a hard-hitting Gore out of left-field courtesy of Rhyno! Later that night, irritated by what was done to his brother's girlfriend, Jeff Hardy confronted Paul Heyman backstage only to wind up hit with a Gore into a steel shutter door! 'The Man-Beast's warpath had gone on long enough in Team Xtreme's minds.
Rhyno stampeded down the aisleway to boos from the Chicago crowd, with chants of "ECW" packing the Allstate Arena. Pounding his chest upon entry to the ring, 'the Man-Beast' wasted no time in letting out a warcry, ready for battle. Jeff Hardy soon came gyrating out to the stage, raving his way down the aisleway in a purple fishnet shirt. With dyed red hair, the rainbow-haired warrior immediately raced down the aisleway to the ring!3) Rhyno vs Jeff Hardy Since losing the WWF Hardcore Championship at WrestleMania, Rhyno begun on a warpath of domination. Cutting through the likes of Crash, Molly Holly, K-Kwik and most notably 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan, the boiling point for Team Xtreme came when Rhyno put Matt Hardy out on the shelf with internal bleeding! These unwarranted assaults had no connection to each other, but it was something that compelled Jeff Hardy and Lita to come for revenge. Paul Heyman continued to profess innocence about any alliance with 'the Man-Beast', after both were responsible for the attack that broke Hulk Hogan's ribs. Jeff and Lita cared little for the animal's rampage, responding by costing Rhyno a match with Kane for the WWF Hardcore Championship two weeks ago. After threatening Heyman on commentary six nights ago, Jeff got his match with Rhyno; but it came with the price of Rhyno giving not just Lita the Gore - but Jeff as well three nights ago on SmackDown.
It was high time for Jeff Hardy, who believed he had the rarely-beaten 'Man-Beast's number. Lita was said to be resting at home from the Gore received this past week, whilst Paul Heyman continued to defend the actions of the unaffiliated Rhyno. Jeff Hardy hit the ring and duked it out with Rhyno, showing no fear in getting up in 'the Man-Beast's face. Rhyno came back with haymakers, rocking Jeff, who was soon able to duck a punch and knock Rhyno with a dropkick! Rhyno caught Jeff's leg on a toe kick only to receive a spinout enzuigiri, which sent the animal into the corner. Jeff began stomping a mudhole in the corner, before a whip reversed saw Rhyno send Jeff into the corner. Jeff excelled backwards with a handstand using the top rope, an arm drag taking down Rhyno for the first time in this fight! Rhyno was quickly able to stand back up, immediately roping Jeff in for a hard clothesline!
Rhyno paced the ring untamed, punching Jeff in the bottom corner before choking him with the sole of his boot! The referee warned him about disqualification, which only made Rhyno hit the ropes to big boot Jeff in the corner! The Team Xtreme member flopped out to the floor through the ropes, with Rhyno wasting no time in following. With Jeff Hardy on his knees before him, 'the Man-Beast' raked the eyes blatantly, before Rhyno put the boots to Jeff against the barricade! There was nothing but aggression on display, as Rhyno picked Jeff up in a fireman's carry. Jeff was able to slip free however, and would send Rhyno shoulder-first into the ring post! It bought Jeff time to scale the barricade, but in shooting off with a crossbody, Rhyno intercepted with a spear in mid-air! Leaving Jeff's carcass on the floor, Rhyno rolled back in and allowed him to be counted out, but Jeff showed resilience in rolling back under the ropes at the count of seven!
Rhyno was immediately on Jeff Hardy as he crawled back into the ring, stomping at the back of him. The fans chanted "ECW" as Rhyno continued bending the rules, biting the forehead of Jeff against the bottom rope. Rhyno paced the ring figuring out what was next, when Jeff surprised with a drop toe hold. A front dropkick would send Rhyno shoulder-first into the ring post, and a roll-up garnered a near fall! Jeff surprised again with a judo throw-esque takedown into a leg hook cradle for a near fall, again meeting Rhyno back up, to trip him for a legdrop to the groin! Jeff hammered Rhyno into the corner before unleashing ten punches on the second rope - until 'the Man-Beast' powerbombed Jeff down to the mat hard! Rhyno stalked Jeff from the corner awaiting the Gore, but Jeff would hit the ropes and score with a spinning headscissors! Whipping his shirt off to screaming women's cheers, Jeff took to the top rope and caught Rhyno with the Whisper in the Wind - only getting a two-count!
Jeff Hardy had Rhyno on the defensive and looked for the Twist of Fate, the Chicagoans getting behind the rainbow-haired Hardy Boy, but in a flash 'the Man-Beast' would shove Jeff off into the ropes. Ducking a clothesline, Rhyno impacted Jeff Hardy with a critical Gore - to pick up the three count!Winner: Rhyno (6:45) 'The Man-Beast' added another victim to his list, Rhyno celebrating his victory by chasing the referee from the ring! Paul Heyman rejoiced in seeing Rhyno dismantle the third member of Team Xtreme in succession, insulting the intelligence of the resourceful and resilient Jeff Hardy. Jeff remained in agony on the ribs, as Rhyno towered over him pounding his own chest in victory. The former ECW Champion soon left the ring, heading over to speak with his former employer. Paul Heyman stood up at commentary and offered Rhyno a microphone, asking him what was next for 'the Man-Beast!' Rhyno snorted, glaring into the camera and claimed that nobody was as extreme as him! Rhyno stomped away, leaving Jim Ross to accuse Paul of collusion. Who could stop this mad man?
In footage taken from earlier today, as shown on Sunday Night Heat, Triple H was seen arriving at the Allstate Arena. End game had arrived for 'the Game', ahead of the hopeful end to his year long redemption saga. It was at Backlash last year where he last held the WWF Championship. 364 days had passed, and tonight, 'the Cerebral Assassin' appeared incredibly determined in his walk to the arena - set to meet Stone Cold Steve Austin in the main event!
Shane McMahon jumped enthusiastically on the spot, with Jonathan Coachman standing by. Moments away from the match with Commissioner William Regal where his WWF contract would be on the line, the Coach asked the WCW Owner what was on his mind. Shane smiled, telling Coach there was no mistake his back was against the wall. There was no lie there were powers-that-be who didn't want the WCW Owner on the World Wrestling Federation payroll, let alone present at WWF live events. Shane O'Mac knew that and he understood that - but it wasn't going to stop him. Shane gave a shoutout to his sister Stephanie McMahon ahead of her match with Trish Stratus tonight, talking how he knew their father Vince McMahon wanted to see his children fail - but they wouldn't. Shane called himself 'the Comeback Kid', and despite what Commissioner William Regal did on SmackDown - Shane O'Mac was like a boomerang that would only keep coming back for more.
A video package aired, previewing Shane McMahon vs William Regal. In a Street Fight pitting father against son, and WWF Owner versus WCW Owner at WrestleMania, it was Shane McMahon who was victorious. With Vince McMahon's budding affair with Trish Stratus, Shane O'Mac would not let it go; appearing from WWF New York, and confronting Vince in the middle of the ring. Shane was determined to make life hard for the Chairman. Vince took his frustration out on WWF Commissioner William Regal, demanding he make matters change. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' had Shane banned from buildings, only to go thwarted by the WCW Owner. Shane still had a talent contract, and slapped Regal in the face when a challenge was made. That's all it took for Shane to be on the Commissioner's chopping block. Tonight, with Shane's WWF contract at stake, Regal hoped to rid the company of the WCW Owner once and for all!
In a potentially to-be-expected sign of Chairman involvement, Howard Finkel stood in the middle of the ring to declare not only was Shane McMahon's WWF contract on the line - but this match was to be a No-Disqualification match! Shane McMahon soon shuffled from side to side in coming out to the Allstate Arena, the WCW Owner met with a loud ovation by the crowd in attendance. Jumping up and down, adorned in a red and black baseball jersey, Shane O'Mac brandished the colors of WCW! High-fiving fans on his way down the aisle, Shane sprung into the ring and stood tall on the second rope. Shane O'Mac called himself 'the Comeback Kid', and would do all he could to stay on WWF television after tonight. Commissioner William Regal made his arriva in dark red trunks, the Englishman scowling on his way down to the ring, respectfully wiping his feet on entry to the squared-circle. Regal got in Shane's face, the referee quick to try get between them!4) No-Disqualification Match WWF Commissioner William Regal vs WCW Owner Shane McMahon Shane McMahon's WWF contract on the line The WWF Commissioner's job may as well be on the line tonight, as Vince McMahon had threatened and warned William Regal time and time again that he had to deliver on banishing Shane McMahon from the World Wrestling Federation after tonight. The WCW Owner had disrespected the Commissioner numerous times in the past several weeks, defying policies banning him from appearing at buildings and mocking Regal in verbal exchanges in the center of the ring. We had seen a different side to 'the Goodwill Ambassador' as a result, evidenced on SmackDown this past week where Regal forced Shane to tap out to the Regal Stretch. Yet Shane O'Mac was so hell bent on making life hard for his faithless father Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus, that he did not want to leave the WWF no matter what happened with WCW. Shane's employee contract may have been terminated, but tonight it was up to Regal to terminate Shane's remaining WWF Superstar contract and finally win the Chairman over.
The WWF Commissioner butted noses with the WCW Owner in the ring, the two exchanging words with Shane McMahon choicely offering William Regal another gentleman's handshake. William was not falling for this trick again after the disrespectful slap suffered two weeks ago, when this match was made. He instead slapped Shane to a knee before kicking away at him! 'The Goodwill Ambassador' was showing a more aggressive side to that everybody had known of him, briefing mounting Shane and clubbing with forehead strikes to the nose. Shane soon turned the tables on Regal, mounting Regal and decking him with right hands! Finally able to throw him off, Regal backed up as Shane cockily bounced up and down on the spot. As the WWF Commissioner returned to his feet, Shane assumed a boxing stance, before rushing William into the corner! The experienced veteran switched it up, throwing martial arts kicks to the chest of Shane against the turnbuckles, before a European uppercut rocked Shane!
William Regal connected with a double underhook suplex to Shane, covering with his forearm driven over the nose of the WCW Owner. Delivering a succession of grounded punches to the forehead, Regal sized Shane up for a well-placed stomp to the head! Chicago booed as Regal waltzed the ring before running his forearm against Shane's face on the mat. It was all legal with no holds denied under no-disqualification rules, as Regal settled with a chinlock applied. Shane McMahon slowly came to and used body blows to battle his way free, when Regal sent Shane into the ropes. Shane was able to duck a clothesline, and bouned back with a flying forearm, throttling Regal with hard right hands on the way down! 'The Comeback Kid' had launched an attack, as the WWF Commissioner came up with a bloodied nose. Shane would kick Regal in the gut sending him out to the floor through the ropes, with the WCW Owner coming straight after him!
Unveiling a kendo stick from beneath the ring, Shane McMahon cracked it against the spine of William Regal twice, before hoisting him against the side of the announce table. Another shot cracked the WWF Commissioner in the ribs with the kendo stick, when Shane sent Regal rolling back inside. Standing over a retreating 'Goodwill Ambassador', Regal cowered for mercy as Shane wrenched the stick back overhead - to receive an errant low blow! The Allstate Arena booed loudly as William Regal confiscated the kendo stick and sadistically aimed to shove it into the mouth of Shane McMahon! Bringing Shane to his knees, Regal wrenched backwards as Shane had the stick in his mouth and around his neck! The Blackpudlian trash talked Shane as he choked him, going medieval before covering for a near fall. With his knee over the throat of Shane O'Mac, Regal delivered more clenched fists to the forehead of Shane, sending him retreating to the apron.
With his head draped the ring apron, William Regal relented with European uppercuts to the jaw of Shane, whose head hung overboard. Taking time to wave to the booing Chicago fans surronding them, a sound knee lift would see Shane drop to the floor with a thud! Regal's punishment of Shane geared up with a suplex attempted, but Shane would switch it around and drop Regal on the outside floor with a suplex of his own! 'The Goodwill Ambassador' crawled away from 'the Comeback Kid', who followed Regal around ringside, dropkicking the steel steps directly into the legs of the former WWF European Champion! Having found a trash can, Shane launched himself from the steel steps and brought the can down over Regal's head! Rallying the fans with him, Shane rolled Regal back inside before picking up the trash can lid. With Regal in the corner, Shane struck Regal with a harsh lid shot to the temple, before propping the trash can in his hands.
Shane McMahon was prepared to go Coast-to-Coast as seen last month at WrestleMania; ascending to the top rope of the corresponding corner. The WCW Owner looked around and crossed his heart with a hand gesture - only to take the Leap of Faith and receive a sickening trash can shot in mid-air! Regal had hurled the can in Shane's way, but in covering the WCW Owner, Shane still managed to kick out! Aggravated by the resilient 'Comeback Kid', Regal lifted Shane's head from the canvas with repeated knee strikes to the face, when the Regal Cutter was attempted. Shane shoved Regal off into the ropes, locking in a desperate sleeper hold. With a rear naked choke grip applied, Shane dove on Regal's back, only for Regal to dump him overhead! Regal locked in the Regal Stretch - the same submission used to make Shane tap out on SmackDown - but Shane would scramble in hopes of escaping. Distanced from the ropes, Shane would grab the kendo stick and crack Regal in the face, for freedom!
The WCW Owner continued to bust the bloodied WWF Commissioner with kendo stick shots to escape the Regal Stretch, and in both men coming to their feet, Shane O'Mac would daze William Regal with one finite kendo stick shot to the skull! Shane was prepared to finish 'the Goodwill Ambassador', when down the aisleway ran Vince McMahon - a steel chair in hand! The bitter WWF Owner hit the ring, walloping his son with a chair shot to the spine! With Shane on his knees, Vince cracked Shane in the skull with an overarching chair shot to the cranium, before leaving the ring and not turning back! The Chairman had cost Shane his WWF contract surely, but as Regal covered - 'the Comeback Kid' still managed to kick out at two! Shane's father turned back in astonishment, as Regal slowly picked Shane up - unsuccessfully. Shane was out on his feet, as a second attempt proved unsuccessful either. Regal finally powered a deadweight Shane to his feet - when Shane grabbed an inside cradle - for the win!Winner: Shane McMahon (11:14) Shane McMahon retains his WWF contract. In devastation, William Regal sat up in the middle of the ring. Blood pouring from his nose the Commissioner was tricked by Shane McMahon! Vince McMahon's jaw gaped open from the aisleway, his eyes popping out of his head. In the corner the WCW Owner smiled as he clutched the back of his head. Shane O'Mac played possum to retain his WWF Superstar contract, much to the chagrin of the WWF Owner! 'The Comeback Kid' struck again, but stubbornly, 'the Goodwill Ambassador' had to have the last laugh. Jumping Shane from behind, the Englishman put the boots to Shane O'Mac after the match! With a knee strike to the back of his skull, William pummelled Shane with forearm strikes, whilst Vince watched smiling from the stage area! The Regal Stretch was applied with Shane tapping out, when the referee stepped in to pull him off! Regal left the ring feeling dignified, but the fact remained: Shane had retained his contract, but for how much longer, with the forces against him?
An advertisement aired, promoting WWF Judgment Day 2001. For whom the bell toled, an emotional and empassionate man of poverty spoke to civilians around him. Wearing a sandwich board that shadowed the end of times, he told listeners on the street that everybody's time would run out - that it was all a matter of time. In three weeks, RC Cola presented Judgment Day 2001 - live on pay-per-view on Sunday, May 21 from the Arco Arena in Sacramento, California.
- Stephanie McMahon sat in silence in her dressing room, dressed in all-black ahead of her confrontation with Trish Stratus. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' had waited weeks for tonight, when in walked her once-boyfriend, Kurt Angle. 'The Megastar' knew after their argument on SmackDown he was the last person she wanted to see. He knew she didn't want to talk, but the Olympic Gold Medalist wanted to wish her luck tonight. Steph quizzed Kurt if he really meant that - she knew that he and Trish had shared a room on SmackDown three days ago. Angle didn't know what to say, when she questioned if Kurt was happy that Shane McMahon beat William Regal moments ago. Her point proven, she turned to leave, when Angle roped Stephanie in for a kiss! Kurt told Stephanie none of that meant he didn't love her. Kurt joked he had to prepare for his own match with Big Show, who might well eat him tonight! Steph laughed, wishing him luck. Kurt smiled back, wishing her the same.
A video package aired, focusing on the rivalry between The Undertaker and Chris Benoit. WrestleMania saw a hard-fought war of attrition between the Undertaker and Chris Benoit, but in the end it was 'the American Badass' who prevailed victorious. With his ninth straight victory at 'the Grandaddy of Them All', 'the Rabid Wolverine' responded poorly the next night on RAW is WAR. Ambushing 'the Deadman' in the parking lot, not only would 'the Crippler' destroy the Undertaker's kneecap with a steel wrench, but he would knock his motorcycle onto the leg, wrecking it! Benoit ran his mouth for weeks, injuring WWF Superstars - until Undertaker made his return. No fear instilled in him, Undertaker vowed to make Benoit pay for dear life at Backlash. Yet Undertaker's condition was still in question, being the brunt of several attacks on his leg by the calculatedly cold Benoit. Who would come out on top in their rematch tonight; 'the Deadman' or 'the Wolverine?'
Chris Benoit walked with a calm and collected look in his eyes. Weeks after WrestleMania X-Seven's major loss to 'the American Badass', he knew that he could not come up short again tonight. Wearing bright purple tights with 'Wolverine' enscribed down the sides of his legs, 'the Rabid Wolverine' cranked his neck and popped his wrists as he climbed into the ring beneath the flashing lights. Benoit was determined to avenge the loss to the Undertaker from WrestleMania. The lights soon went out with a gong heard, signalling "Rollin'" by Limp Bizkit to blast throughout the Allstate Arena! The Undertaker soon stepped out to the arena, no motorcycle to ride tonight - cruel intentions in his eyes! Removing his sunglasses, 'the Deadman' walked steadily to the ring, a knee brace over his leather pants. His shattered kneecap had to be bringing him agony, but Undertaker rolled into the ring and saluted the fans unmoved with his fists high in the air, as Benoit stared from the ringside floor!5) The Undertaker vs Chris Benoit It all started with the Undertaker wanting to teach Chris Benoit a lesson in learning about respect. It had escalated in a completely different direction. After their match at WrestleMania X-Seven, Chris Benoit responded to his loss by shattering the kneecap of 'the American Badass' the next night in a parking lot ambush. Undertaker had to be struggling to stand, let alone fight, but ten days ago on SmackDown 'the Deadman' would show up in jest of Benoit. Costing him the WWF European Championship against Bradshaw, Undertaker refused to let Benoit cripple another WWF Superstar. The Undertaker laid down the law with a challenge last Monday on RAW is WAR, which broke down to an all-out fight that had to be separated. Then, three nights ago on SmackDown, Benoit further damaged the kneecap of 'the Big Dog' with a kneebar atop the steel steps! Benoit could not afford to lose a second time tonight, but how desperate could 'the Wolverine' stoop against 'the Deadman?'
The Undertaker hurled his baseball cap into the crowd and began shadow-boxing, his eyes laid on Chris Benoit who stood a distance at ringside. 'The Rabid Wolverine' smirked, slowly taking his time to step into the ring. Staring each other down from across the ring, the bell sounded but Benoit woudl climb back out to the apron! With a smirk on his face, 'the Wolverine' played mind games with Undertaker, pointing out the knee brace on his opponent's leg. Undertaker talked trash in response, as Benoit slowly climbed back inside. The two locked up with Undertaker powering him into the ropes! Against the ropes, 'the Deadman' lit Benoit up with a succession of strikes, body blows soon forcing a clean break from the referee. Benoit refocused, teasing for a test of strength. Undertaker was on board and commenced with a Greco-Roman knucklelock, when Benoit toe kicked Undertaker's leg, and clubbed the back of his head! Sent into the ropes, Undertaker returned with a clothesline!
Rolling into the corner, 'the Wolverine' laughed at 'the Deadman'. Coming to his feet, the two combatants circled the ring with Undertaker again cornering Benoit with a barrage of punches! Chris Benoit soon switched it around, chopping 'the American Badass' in the corner until Undertaker struck with a knee lift! An uppercut rocked the Canadian, and Undertaker would soon send Benoit across the ring to the opposite corner! With a dramatic hair flick, Undertaker unleashes with a charging back elbow against the turnbuckles! The best pure striker in the business struck with more uppercuts, soon whipping Benoit to the opposite corner again for a second clothesline to land! 'The Big Dog' showed no give in his own yard, mounting Benoit with punches until forced to break by the official. Undertaker listened reluctantly, before surprising with a cross-armbreaker applied on Benoit, who rived in pain! Using reverse psychology against the technician, Benoit would reverse into a roll-up for a near fall.
A low dropkick would take the leg from beneath the Undertaker, and Chris Benoit followed with an elbow drop across the back of the veteran! 'The Crippler' took the braced leg of the Undertaker and slammed it into the canvas, soon placing his knee across 'the American Badass's shinbone and hoping to hyperextend it sideways! Undertaker soon kicked Benoit away, gingerly coming back to his feet - only to be knocked down again with a second low dropkick! Benoit took the leg and draped it over the bottom rope, before using the second rope as a springboard to seat drop over the shin for good measure! Benoit repeated a second time, surely weakening the already shattered kneecap of 'the Deadman!' Benoit knew exactly what he was doing, hooking the leg with his own and applying a grounded sleeper hold. The grounded submission applied, Undertaker tried headbutting free, when Benoit broke the sleeper and sat back again with a legslam - their legs intertwined!
'The American Badass' had never submitted before in his career, but Chris Benoit was relentless in torturing the kneecap of the Undertaker. With the sleeper hold combination maintained, Undertaker soon headbutted his way out. Gingerly back to his feet, Undertaker swung for a missed clothesline, when Benoit caught a knee lift targeting the abdomen to bring 'the Big Dog' down with the dragon screw! A single leglock was applied, again focused on the injured knee, and this time Undertaker was clearly in pain! Benoit loosened the knee brace securing 'the Deadman's knee, but Undertaker was able to grab the bottom rope! For good measure, 'the Wolverine' refused to break the hold and risk disqualification only to free Undertaker at the count of four - but would raise the leg and stomp the hamstring of Undertaker's repeatedly to make a statement! Benoit dropped an elbow across the leg and hyperextended it once again, when Undertaker grabbed Benoit in a headlock from behind!
'The American Badass' fought fire with fire with a headlock, but Benoit would put his foot on the bottom rope forcing the break! Chris Benoit distanced himself and charged a recovering Undertaker, who proceeded to pull the ropes down sending the Canadian crashing and burning out to the floor. Slowly following, the veteran brawled with right hands at ringside. Lighting up Benoit, Chris would duck a shot causing the Undertaker to smash his hand against the ring post! 'The Rabid Wolverine' saw it instantly and chopped away at the Undertaker, before dragging him back inside the ring. With the bigger man at his mercy crawling before him, Benoit stepped on the injured hand and talked trash to the Undertaker, only for 'the Deadman' to grab Benoit by the throat with his good hand! Benoit would kick free and lock in the cross-armbreaker, with Undertaker away from the ropes! Benoit asserted pressure, but he squirmed, and Undertaker would get his foot to the bottom rope!
It was clear Chris Benoit was growing frustrated with the Undertaker's intense pain threshold, his battle plan intended to make 'the Deadman' tap out for the first time in his career. With a bad hand and shattered kneecap, Chris Benoit licked his lips and undressed the Undertaker's knee of its brace before bringing him back to his feet. Another dragon screw was attempted, but as Benoit went down, Undertaker would legdrop Benoit in response! Slow to his feet, 'the American Badass' came back again with punches using his good hand. Benoit kicked the leg and hit the ropes, only to encounter a sidewalk slam for a near fall! Undertaker was getting fed up and signalled for the Chokeslam, but as he slapped Benoit with his hand around the throat, Benoit would for a third time dropkick the kneecap! With the Undertaker on all fours, 'the Rabid Wolverine' looked for a single-legged Boston crab, but Undertaker would kick him to the corner and drop him with a DDT - for a near fall!
Wrenching the arm, the Undertaker twisted and turned at the wrist of a protesting Chris Benoit. Slowly ascending to the top rope, 'the American Badass' scaled the top rope for the Old School - to which Benoit kicked the ropes, causing Undertaker to crotch himself on the top rope! The veteran tumbled out to the ring apron, where Chris Benoit soon joined him at ringside. Slamming 'the Deadman's leg down across the ring apron, the Canadian grapevined the leg with a kneebar across the ring apron! Undertaker was restrained by the bottom rope against his chest, but the referee would force the break at a four-count, as Benoit proceeded to deck Undertaker through the ropes for good measure! Climbing to the top rope, Chicago booed as Benoit soared with the Diving Headbutt - only Undertaker sat up, and Benoit landed on nothing but canvas! Undertaker hobbled to his feet and struck back with clotheslines, catching Benoit with a running powerslam!
Off the ropes the Undertaker came with an elbow drop for a near fall, which set in motion for the Chokeslam once again. 'The American Badass' grabbed Chris Benoit by the throat, but in powering him up, Benoit was able to victory roll his way through for a near fall! Benoit transitioned into the Sharpshooter, with 'the Deadman' screaming in agony! Undertaker had nowhere to turn, as Benoit wrenched with the Sharpshooter locked in firmly. On the verge of tapping out for the first time in over a decade of destruction, the Undertaker somehow persevered enough to make it to the ropes! Benoit again broke on four, but relentlessly stomped the kneecap of 'the Deadman'. He screamed at a grounded Undertaker to give up, but in coming up to his knees, Undertaker would spit in his face! Benoit laughed, before roping the arm for the Crossface! Instead, Undertaker refused to go down - instead powering 'the Crippler' up for a back suplex!
Chris Benoit was down, and Undertaker set the wheels in motion for the Last Ride! Powering 'the Rabid Wolverine' up, Benoit would jump out and land on his feet! Not one but three consecutive German suplexes connected, when Benoit ran his fist past his throat. It was in preparation for the Diving Headbutt, which he climbed to the top rope for and executed! Making the cover, heroically 'the Deadman' again powered out at two, causing Benoit to slam his palms into the canvas in rage! Benoit locked in the Crossface, but Undertaker refused to turn to his stomach. Elbowing and headbutting his way out, Benoit walked into the palm of 'the Big Dog', who attempted a Chokeslam just for his leg to buckle beneath him! Benoit hesitantly saw his chance and took it - the Sharpshooter applied! With Undertaker in agony, unable to tolerate the pressure - he resisted tapping out! Crawling towards the ropes, Undertaker finally dropped flat on his face - and the referee shockingly called for a stoppage!Winner: Chris Benoit (16:05) 'The Rabid Wolverine' could barely believe what had happened, as the referee had ordered this match to a halt! Chris Benoit dropped to his knees and relinquished the Sharpshooter, questioning Mike Chioda's call by grabbing him by the collar. In sheer emotion, 'the Crippler' threw up his fists in disbelief himself. All the while laughing with joy, Benoit forced the referee to raise his hand as well. Meanwhile, the Undertaker could be seen struggling back to his feet. With the use of the ropes, 'the American Badass' looked furious in hobbling to a vertical basis. Suddenly, Undertaker turned Benoit around to surprise him with a series of heavy right hands - a big boot off the ropes sending Benoit from the ring! Limping around on his good leg, Undertaker similarly caressed his apparently injured hand as well - when he used his good hand to grab referee Mike Chioda by the throat, and deliver an almighty Chokeslam!
Chris Benoit cowered from the ring, as 'the Deadman' was not yet finished. Powering Chioda up for the Last Ride, it went executed with Benoit watching from the aisleway! Undertaker dropped to a seated position in the ring, gesturing that Benoit's head would fall with a cut-throat motion. Benoit had gotten away with murder tonight thanks to the official, but this war was somehow only just beginning between these two men! Undertaker did not tap out on this given night, and there was hell to pay for anybody who didn't respect 'the Deadman!'
A crowd gathered in the APA's office, with WWF European Champion Bradshaw shouting over the hollering likes of Jacqueline, Kaientai, K-Kwik, Scotty 2 Hotty, Rikishi and Steve Blackman. The tough Texan smoked a cigar and called the shots, taking money from the WWF Superstars around him. Bradshaw blurted out that he had no idea the Undertaker would lose, and that it was on everybody that bet on him that they'd lost their money! 'The Lethal Weapon' was vocally angry about the controversial result, but Bradshaw demanded order in the office - there was still chance to make their money back, and the champ would question who they had: Stone Cold Steve Austin, or Triple H?
- Jim Ross and Paul Heyman talked about the shocking conclusion to the Chris Benoit and Undertaker match moments ago, where J.R. reminded everybody that 'the American Badass' did not tap out. Heyman argued that 'the Rabid Wolverine' still won the match, which made J.R. segue to downtown New York City. Deep in the heart of Times Square, Steven Richards stood on the stage of WWF New York. Dressed in his shirt and tie, Steven was interviewed with the booing crowd on hand in the Big Apple. Steven felt disgusted having to be here at the Crossroads of the World. Steven found everybody living in NYC criminal, and he was repulsed by New Yorkers everywhere - just like he was the heightened drama surrounding Stephanie McMahon and Trish Stratus. Steven believed women of their talent should never step inside a squared circle, and that with threats of clothes ripping, he implored all good parents to shield their children's eyes and turn the television off!
Paul Heyman asked Steven Richards how the reprogramming of the Right to Censor was coming along, to which the leader of the RTC confirmed all things were going accordingly. Steven voiced his concerns about the crossroads that the RTC had taken to get where they are, from all of the infighting among the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry to the three all finally getting along. Jim Ross asked when the RTC might return, to which Steven answered tomorrow would be the moment of truth. RAW is WAR tomorrow night would be the final test for all of them, as Steven planned to unveil a new and improved Right to Censor. Together, they would unite, and together they would fight the good fight - and win. While J.R. remained hesitant and inquired whether Steven took part in the reprogramming, Heyman applauded Steven in doing the God's work!
A replay aired, taking us back to six nights ago on RAW is WAR. Tensions had been riding high, with Kurt Angle attempting to duck the Big Show at all costs, heading into tonight. But when 'the Megastar' tried assaulting 'the Giant' from behind during his match with Shane McMahon last Monday, it incensed Show. So much so, that Big Show would chase the Olympic Gold Medalist out of the building! The 500-pounder would prevent Kurt from making it to his rental car, and not just that - 'the World's Largest Athlete' would use his freakish strength to tip his car upside down!
With a loud, white explosion of pyrotechnics, out to the Allstate Arena walked Big Show. 'The Giant' raised his gigantic index finger to the crowd as he emerged through the smoke to a positive response from the crowd, bending his wrists with a burning look of determination on his face. Show had been ridiculed by Kurt Angle for weeks; and after months of being a loyal sidekick to 'the Megastar' in the Coalition, tonight would be Show's shot at true revenge. Show towered over the ropes in climbing inside the squared circle, before letting out a roar and raising his humongous hand to the crowd over the top rope. Kurt Angle soon stepped cautiously down the aisleway, adorned in a red, white and blue singlet. Raising his index fingers to the rafters, pyrotechnics of red, white and blue colors erupted behind him. Angle sized Show up as he approached the ring, when Show demanded he bring it to the ring. Angle climbed the steps hesitantly, before deciding to walk around the ringside area.6) Big Show vs Kurt Angle One year ago, it was Kurt Angle who took Big Show out for months with a broken ankle, which began his own ascent to superstardom in the WWF. Last September, 'the Giant' returned, shockingly joining forces with 'the Megastar' to form the Coalition. With Kurt as the WWF Champion, Big Show was loyal to the faction and did the bidding of whatever the Olympic Gold Medalist asked of him. Now, those days were gone, as Kurt Angle's greed and desire to be WWF Champion consumed him entirely. Big Show grew tired of playing second fiddle, and desired to become WWF Champion. He had his shot several weeks ago on SmackDown, where 'the Megastar's involvement indirectly allowed Stone Cold Steve Austin to walk out still champion. Show responded, costing Angle the number one contender's match to Triple H. Kurt had insulted Show, verbally berated him, and Show had had enough. Tipping over the rental car was the tipping point - tonight was Show's shot at revenge!
'The Giant' implored Kurt Angle to step into the ring with him, as he decided to take a walk around ringide. 'The Megastar' was not about to fight Big Show head on, and instead decided to stall at ringside where he would take a microphone from the timekeeper's table. Congratulating the big man on making it so far, Kurt was more shocked than anybody to see him in the ring tonight. Angle insulted Show's weight, noting how he was so used to rolling down the aisleway - everybody knew he stepped over the ropes to enter the ring, because he was too damn fat to fit between the ropes! Angle told Show that he would regret showing up tonight, because after 'the Olympic Hero' humiliated the 500-pounder tonight, Show could go back into hiding and eat his bodyweight in ice cream - yet again! This incensed Big Show to power over the top rope, chasing Angle around ringside! Angle ran around the ringside area, before finally slipping into the ring.
'The Giant' slid into the ring soonafter, with the Olympian dropping axe handles and right hands to the back! Perhaps his point was proven, as Kurt Angle hoped to keep the Big Show off his feet only to be shoved halfway across the ring! Angle opportunistically tried to exit the ring, but the big man would grab Angle by the ankle and drag him kicking and screaming back into the center of the ring! With a hold of his foot, Show slammed Angle face first on his face! Picking Kurt up by the singlet and screaming in his face, 'the World's Largest Athlete' had revenge on his mind - sending a giant chop that echoed throughout the Allstate Arena! Kurt Angle squirmed to get away, only to receive a second massive chop to the chest. Show continued to maul the Olympic Gold Medalist in the corner, when the referee finally stepped in allowing Angle to exit out to the apron. Demanding a fair fight, Show swung for Kurt only for him to drop down to ringside.
As Big Show furiously reached over, Angle used Show's momentum to wrench him throat-first over the top rope! 'The Megastar' tripped Show from beneath the ropes, and quickly forearmed away at the ankle of the big man. Attempting the Ankle Lock through the ropes, 'the Giant' would respond by pulling him into the ring apron rib-first! Show rolled out of the ring and headbutted Angle sending him into the steel steps, but when Show charged Angle was able to sidestep him - Show crashing into the steps himself! Angle put the boots to 'the World's Largest Athlete' without hesitance, rolling back inside quickly to initiate a count. Big Show crawled back inside at the count of four, to receive more boots from Angle. The former WWF Champion was confident now, showboating around the ring. As Big Show used the corner to get back up, Angle lit him up with right hands, when foolishly a belly-to-belly suplex went unsuccessful.
Show hurled Angle at the corner and delivered punches of his own, before stepping back and landing a big corner splash! The sidewalk slam impacted Kurt Angle greatly for a near fall, when Big Show decided to choke Kurt from the ground overhead! The tactical and survivalist Kurt Angle responded by kicking Show in the temple to fight for his life, when a chop block would send Big Show crashing to a knee. 'The Megastar' picked the leg and stomped away at the ankle some more, but the 500-pounder would soon power out with his foot - sending Kurt into the corner! Show slowly got back up to miss a clothesline in the corner, when Angle amazingly delivered a massive German suplex! Incredible as it was to power-lift 'the World's Largest Athlete' off his feet, Angle was hurt from Show landing on top of him. Angle maintained dominance with a waistlock applied tightly from a seated position. Rolling Show over and mounting him, 'the Megastar' slapped on a hammerlock.
Kurt Angle reached for the crossface chickenwing, when Big Show stammered to his feet. With Angle on his back, Show would back it up - sandwiching the Olympic Gold Medalist against the corner! Crushing him with repeated hip attacks, Show would finish the sequence by driving Kurt's head across his knee! The Olympian flopped back up to his feet from landing face-first on the canvas, where Show sent Kurt flying with a gorilla press slam! Show looked for a second gorilla press, but this time Angle slipped out and chop blocked the ankle again. The Olympic athlete was breaking Show down, and immediately looked for the Ankle Lock, but Show would power out sending Angle from the ring, through the ropes! In a haze, Angle tried to walk away, but Show's massive hand grabbed Kurt by the top of his head and dragged him back to the apron from the floor! Powering him by the throat to the top rope, Show delivered a massive Chokeslam!
'The World's Largest Athlete' had the opportunity to finish this in an instance, but Big Show decided against it. Unsatisfied, a livid Big Show lowered the straps before preparing a second Chokeslam. Show motioned, but Angle raked the eyes in the nick of time! The Angle Slam landed, with the 500-pounder once again leaving his feet in an amazing feat of strength - but 'the Giant' powered out at the count of two! Angle was in disbelief, and protested the decision with the referee. Angle cried conspiracy, before lowering his own singlet straps. Stomping and stalking Big Show, Kurt's attempt at a second Angle Slam went reversed: and the Final Cut was delivered! Show was slow to react, and decided to instead stalk Kurt once again. Big Show roared and raised his palm - another Chokeslam in bound. Kurt Angle walked the ring in a daze, when clocking Big Show with something in his hand! Angle concealed a set of brass knuckles in his singlet, when another Angle Slam went delivered - for a big win!Winner: Kurt Angle (8:25) 'The Megastar' had a hidden weapon handy in the event that he was unable to put away 'the World's Largest Athlete', and the brass knuckles had paid off in a big way tonight in Chicago! Kurt Angle hid the brass knuckles deep in the nether-regions of his singlet, before having the referee raise his hand victorious. The Olympic Gold Medalist was overwhelmed from the horror movie of offense he had been up against, while 'the Giant' laid motionless in the ring. Big Show was out cold, dribbling from his own mouth. Angle put his foot on the backside of Big Show and raised his fists in victory, while the crowd booed aloud.
Jim Ross and Paul Heyman discussed the absurd strategy of the so-called 'Megastar' used to defeat Big Show moments ago, to which Heyman called Kurt Angle a visionary and a genius - doing whatever it took to defeat 'the Big Fat B*stard'. J.R. warned Heyman not to let Big Show hear him call him that, before bringing up the next time the World Wrestling Federation would be live on pay-per-view - WWF Judgment Day 2001, live on Sunday, May 20, 2001. The Arco Arena in Sacramento, California was already sold out!
- Triple H mentally prepared himself for the main event in his dressing room, when Michael Cole approached 'the Game' asking him how ready he had to feel for this opportunity. After coming so close at No Way Out to be cost by best friend Shawn Michaels; there were no more roadblocks in his way. Triple H casually spoke about how 'the Heartbreak Kid' was taken care of at WrestleMania, and now there was only one man that came between he and his goal of once again becoming WWF Champion. For one year, he had been without the richest prize in the business. It was his livelihood, what he woke up and competed for day-in and day-out to once again hold. As far as Stone Cold Steve Austin was concerned, he was the only roadblock in his way. There was so much bad blood between the two of them, and there had been for too damn long. He knew Austin didn't like him, and HHH sure as hell didn't like Austin.
'The Cerebral Assassin' also knew what it felt like to have the WWF Championship mean the entire world to him, and he knew that 'the Texas Rattlesnake' felt the same way, about the same title. Triple H said that that was the only thing the two of them shared in common, and he was ready for anything Stone Cold had to throw at him. Triple H was certified in being in this match, because he was a student of this business, and because he was 'the Game' - and he was that damn good. For Austin tonight, Triple H said that he could count his blessings all he wanted. It was always going to take a lot more than a parking lot brawl to stop him, and nobody can save 'the Rattlesnake's reign. By the end of Backlash tonight, Triple H declared that he would be the one holding the gold.
The cameras overlooking the Allstate Arena panned rapidly, bringing out Edge and Christian. Both wearing sunglasses, Christian wore a black shirt and green tights, whilst Edge looked like a rockstar in red tights with a black leather trenchcoat. The duo hit the ring for tag team competition, with sure-fire WWF Tag Team Championship implications in this match. As Edge thrusted the canvas upon sliding into the ring, Christian posed from the second rope before taking a microphone. Christian welcomed Chicago, Illinois to the maiming of Y2J, Chris Jericho. Disgusted to have to be in the Windy City tonight, Christian called it the land of the deep-dish pizza! Edge joked that that was the only good thing to come out of this city, and mocked the other things Chicago was known for: the Blackhawks and the Cubs. The people booed, as Christian insulted the crowd, calling them all relatives of each other.
Edge said that after tonight, they'd have a lot in common with Y2J, because Y2J would be looking exactly like each and every one of them! Edge didn't care if Raven wished to show up not, because he already got the win on the WWF Intercontinental Champion on SmackDown three nights ago. Tonight, they were coming for contention to the WWF Tag Team Championships they'd never lost 1-2-3; and they were ready for Y2J to come and face the music! The countdown began, and a pyrotechnics blast brought out Chris Jericho all on his lonesome. Black tights and green decals; a shirt reading "Would You Please Shut the Hell Up!" - Y2J had arrived! Christian continued to mock Y2J over the microphone, calling him a lonely reekazoid. Suddenly Jericho smirked with mischief - when Raven appeared in the ring behind the Canadians: delivering chair shots to both of them!7) Chris Jericho and WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven vs Edge and Christian The alliance between Raven and Chris Jericho had been nothing short of complex, considering under a month ago at WrestleMania, the two fought tooth-and-nail in an Astrodome Asylum match for the WWF Intercontinental Championship! Somehow, Raven and Y2J had stuck up an unholy alliance; Raven going on record as saying that he wanted to show Y2J the light, and how great it felt to be "the good guy" for a change. They'd beaten the Right to Censor, X-Factor and even the forces of Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H. Surely in contention to the WWF Tag Team Championships, the former champs stood in their way. Last week on RAW is WAR, Edge and Christian bruised the ribs of Y2J out of jealousy with a Conchairto; yet when they targeted Raven later that night, Jericho came to his aid. After Raven's disappearance over the last few days, how would this combination fare against the self-proclaimed 'greatest tag team of the millennium?'
Edge and Christian's jealousy over no longer being WWF Tag Team Champions infuriated them, but it had come back to haunt them after two chairshots from the WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven! He scowled and shoved down the steel chair, with a smiling Chris Jericho walking casually down the aisleway. Raven immediately exploded with right hands in the corner as the bell sounded, soon charging the turnbuckles with a clothesline directly into a bulldog! Edge's bell had to have been rung, but Christian broke up an early pinfall attempt. Raven managed to sidestep him and deliver a kitchen sink knee to the gut, when a knee lift follow-up sent Christian down to cheers. The crowd's ovation increased as Chris Jericho tagged in, but before he could do anything, the Canadians wisely bailed from the ring. Edge and Christian bailed to rethink their strategy, whilst Y2J and Raven shared the same ring.
As they surveyed one another, the unusual pairing thought alike: leaving the ring to continue the fight! Raven roughed Edge up against the barricade with right hands in one corner of the ringside area, whilst Chris Jericho chopped Christian against another. Edge got in a cheap shot on the WWF Intercontinental Champion, before rolling him back inside. Sliding back inside, the older brother walked into a low dropkick from Raven. He continued to duke it out with Edge, whipping him into the ropes for Edge to respond with a spinning wheel kick. Straight to the chinlock, Edge kept Raven grounded whilst wrapping 'the Bowery Brawler's arms in a straitjacket clutch. Raven was summoned by the unusual cult following from the capacity crowd of Chicago, and kicked his way loose. Raven swung for the discus clothesline but Edge ducked, and connected with the Edge-o-matic for a near fall! Tagging in Christian, the two put the boots to the champ in their corner.
Raven was in the wrong part of town, as Christian jumped repeatedly on the shoulders of the WWF Intercontinental Champion to ground him. With the referee admonishing him for not breaking the illegal move, Edge clobbered Raven with a series of haymakers from the floor through the ropes! Christian obnoxiously mimed Raven's taunt with his arms wide open to boos, as the younger brother planted Raven with an Evenflow-esque DDT for only a near fall. Putting the boots to Raven further, the tag was made to Edge. Tag team chemistry on display, Christian rolled into Edge's arms for a assisted wheelbarrow splash, when Edge landed a legdrop for a near fall. From the corner, Y2J rallied the fans behind Raven, as Edge applied an abdominal stretch. Raven once again came to, able to hip toss his way to freedom. The tag was made to Chris Jericho to a huge reaction; coming in with back elbows and a flying forearm catching Christian on the nose!
Bandaged ribs and all, Chris Jericho connected with a double-underhook backbreaker for a near fall, before exchanging words with Edge across the ring. Christian came from behind with an inverted backbreaker, quickly targeting the bandaged ribcage of the fan favorite Winnipeg-native. Edge tagged in swiftly, holding Jericho's legs from ringside for Christian to hammer on the back. With Edge back in the ring, he landed a ribbreaker devastating Jericho's anatomy. Hoping to bend Jericho backwards across his knees, Edge would strike with further body blows to the ribs before being admonished by the official. As this was going on, Christian proceeded to choke Y2J over the bottom ring rope! Edge picked up the pieces with a back suplex, for Y2J to land on his feet. Hitting the ropes, Edge cut Jericho off with an abrupt dropkick to the ribs for good measure! In sync, Christian tagged in and the Toronto brothers delivered a double hiptoss leading to a double elbow drop, again for a near fall.
Christian applied an armbar, stretching out the bruised ribs of Chris Jericho. The former champs were proving the greatness that made them two-time former WWF Tag Team Champions, whilst Raven psyched the crowd up in chanting Y2J's name. Christian applied a sleeper hold, but Jericho would back suplex out of it! Chicago was electric, as Jericho crawled and crawled - when the referee was distracted by Edge coming in illegally! The tag was made to Raven, but disallowed - the official restraining the WWF Intercontinental Champion from entering the ring! Behind the referee's back, the brothers got Y2J up to the top rope and executed a double-decker superplex. It was textbook E&C, as Edge clapped his own hands to illegally signal a tag. With more boots, Edge dragged Jericho back near their corner and applied a camel clutch high on Y2J's shoulders. Jericho squirmed to find an exit, when Christian made the blind tag and would drop an elbow to the spine of Jericho!
Raven argued with the referee leading to Christian mocking 'the Bowery Brawler', but it would only allow Chris Jericho time to fight back. Coming back with chops, Christian would knee the ribs of Y2J before landing the inverted DDT for a near fall. With a headlock applied, Y2J rose out of it again. Running Christian into the ropes, he would drop him with a spinning wheel kick! Jericho crawled, whilst Raven frantically reached - the tag made, with the referee allowing it! To big cheers, Raven ran wild with clotheslines for both Edge and Christian; a suplex getting the pin on the latter. Raven spotted Edge coming in, and in hoping to break the pin-attempt; Edge splashed his own brother! Raven clotheslined both Edge and himself out to the floor, where the WWF Intercontinental Champion followed up with a Russian legsweep into the barricade! Raven back into the corner of the ring in preparation - the end was near for Christian.
Raven prepared the Evenflow DDT, when Christian managed to low blow the WWF Intercontinental Champion behind the referee's back! The inverted tornado DDT connected from the second rope, but on pinning Raven saw Chris Jericho break it up with the Lionsault! It hurt Y2J just as badly, but Jericho tagged in and duked it out with Christian, who sent him to the apron. Jericho popped up to the top rope and landed a missile dropkick; when hit with the spear from Edge! Christian covered, but Raven dragged the referee out of the ring by the foot! With the official incapacitated, Raven slipped into the ring and dropped Christian with the Evenflow DDT; quickly draping Y2J over. But with the referee out, Raven soon found himself in a fist fight with Edge. The two brawled out to the floor, whilst back inside Christian ducked a clothesline and attempted the Unprettier - when Jericho sent him into the ropes for a double knockdown collission!
With all four men down as well as the referee, it paved the way for Tori to wheel the shopping cart down to ringside! The WWF Intercontinental Championship gold rode shotgun in the front seat, weapons lacing the cart. As she approached ringside to applause, Edge spotted her and nixed the idea immediately: piefacing her down to the floor! Edge grabbed two steel chairs from Raven's shopping cart, sliding one into Christian. Together, Edge and Christian prepared the Conchairto, but as Y2J slowly got back to his feet: Raven came out of nowhere, spraying fire extinguisher foam in both men's eyes! Raven clocked Christian with the tank, before picking up a steel chair and clocking Edge with it. There, Raven turned to see Y2J behind him - his fists clenched. The trust was in question between these two, brewing for weeks - when Raven dropped to his knees with a smile! With arms wide open, he watched as Jericho landed the Lionsault on Christian to get the win!Winners: Chris Jericho and WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven (15:22) In some distorted alternative reality, this had to be considered a fairytale ending to a tag team clash! Chris Jericho clutched his ribs in agony, when Raven shockingly hugged Y2J on their knees together. The two men who went to war in Astrodome Asylum at WrestleMania four weeks ago had just beaten the previous WWF Tag Team Champions, and had to be on their way to the gold themselves! The WWF Intercontinental Champion put his arm around Tori as she joined them in the ring. The three raised one another's hands triumphantly, having stooped as low as Edge and Christian were willing to go to come out on top. Y2J and Raven, their differences and unholy alliance put aside - had just beaten the self-proclaimed greatest tag team this side of the millennium!
Trish Stratus walked the halls with poise, the mistress of Vince McMahon soon coming across her lover. With his hands on her shoulders, the boss wanted Trish to be careful out there. The WWF Diva did not take his concern seriously, jokingly asking where her good luck kiss was. Vince was serious, knowing exactly the kind of fighter his daughter was. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' had shown what she was capable of after the last few weeks, and he didn't want to lose her - or for her to face injury at his daughter's hand. Trish giggled, assuring Vince that she would be okay - besides, she was 'Daddy's New Girl', and that meant he had to nurse her back to health. Trish wasn't worried about what might happen; she knew Steph would be irate, but cooler heads would prevail. Trish planned to humiliate and annihilate Vince's daughter's butt all over Chicago. As she turned to leave, when Vince roped her in for a passionate kiss! Trish was taken aback, as Vince expressed that that was a good luck kiss.
- The WWF Championship gold was hung up in the locker behind the WWF Champion himself, Stone Cold Steve Austin. Getting ready for action dressed for the main event encounter with Triple H, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' was in the middle of a spat with his wife Debra. The WWF Divas Ambassador was lectured for the hundredth time, he felt ready for this. Stone Cold said he had waited weeks for tonight to go down. Finally, he and Triple H were to go head to head, and it would be 'the Rattlesnake' who would come out on top. She expressed concern about her husband's neck, but Austin asserted that he had been fine for months. Even with a surgically repaired neck, his ass had beaten The Rock at WrestleMania; he'd beaten Big Show to retain the title, and he'd even whooped 'the Game's sorry ass all around the parking lot last Thursday night on SmackDown.
Stone Cold Steve Austin said that Triple H had been running his mouth for long enough, crying about redemption. Austin told his wife Debra that Hunter can talk a damn good game, but at the end of the day, Triple H wasn't the WWF Champion - ol' Stone Cold was. The WWF Championship was his livelihood, his possession, his passion personified in one title belt. Speaking from the heart to the WWF Divas Ambassador, Steve Austin declared that his name was Stone Cold, and he was the WWF Champion - and tonight against Triple H, Stone Cold planned to unleash hell on 'the Game'. Why? Because Stone Cold said so! Austin was laser-focused, as Debra accepted her husband's comment and left him to prepare. There was a buzz rushing throughout the Allstate Arena!
A video package aired, delving into the history between Stephanie McMahon and Trish Stratus. Stephanie McMahon's life had undergone serious stress since the McMahon Family war began. It hit a boiling point when Vince McMahon revealed to the world he was having an affair with her friend Trish Stratus. It broke 'the Billion Dollar Princess's trust, and since WrestleMania she'd been out to make Vince and Trish's lives hell. She attacked Trish, stripped her of her blouse, and even slapped her father. Finally, the Chairman moderated a formal contract signing for Backlash between the two former friends, with a stipulation added - there would be no contact between them until the pay-per-view. Trish launched an attack on Steph to Vince's amusal, before signing the contract herself. Trish mocked Stephanie and made fun of her weight to provoke her. It was an attempt, and it failed, as Steph would instead react calmly: warning her that she would dismantle 'Daddy's New Little Girl!'
Trish Stratus made her way out to the ring, sauntering out in a black blouse with silver trunks. Wearing a minc black coat, no doubt a wealthy investment purchased by her lover Vince McMahon, the WWF Diva remained confident as she looked around to the mixed ovation of the Chicago crowd. They still found Trish hot, no matter who her partner was! Observing a sign reading "I want Trish", the Diva rolled her eyes as she climbed the steps and entered the ring. Removing her cowboy hat and minc coat, Trish prepared as the Allstate Arena awaited Stephanie McMahon's arrival. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' made her arrival, dressed in a black shirt and running pants. Steph wasted little time in power-walking down the aisleway, before coming to a standstill nearing ringside. Trish laughed and goaded her, resulting in Stephanie hitting the ring a head full of a steam!8) Stephanie McMahon vs Trish Stratus This was a match that had been building since the second Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus kissed in front of the entire world at WrestleMania X-Seven. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' might not have seen eye to eye with her brother Shane McMahon, but the McMahon children still refused to let what their father did to their mother Linda stand. Stephanie McMahon was betrayed by her friend, even worse, and committed herself to a life designed to make Trish pay for each and every touch of her affair with the married billionaire. Vince threatened to disown his daughter of her surname, but the determination of Steph to attack Trish soon got too much. The contract signing ten days ago on SmackDown told the entire story: Vince was on Trish's side all the way, and for the past ten days Stephanie had been waiting for tonight. With everything Trish had to say and do since that night, Steph planned to make the new 'Daddy's Little Girl' pay dearly for her life!
Stephanie McMahon stormed the ring with vengeance on her mind, met with Trish Stratus immediately decking her with a succession of clubbing right hands to the back upon entry. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' responded by tackling Trish to the canvas, ramming her shoulders against the mat repeatedly! The back of the WWF Diva's head bounced off the mat, when Trish turned the tide and in turn rammed Stephanie's shoulders into the canvas. It was always going to be bowling shoe ugly, as the two rolled around the ring in a classic catfight! Stephanie gained control, mounting Trish and firing haymakers her way. Trish was able to slap her way back, before a forearm strike allowed her to get back to her feet. Trish delivered two more, but Stephanie would clothesline her down to the mat! Stephanie tried climbing her father's mistress again, but Trish weaselled out to the floor. Searching for safety, Trish cowered from Stephanie around ringside, with Steph soon chasing after her.
Trish Stratus actually appeared to try and run away from the ring, heading up the aisleway - but with a hot Stephanie McMahon in pursuit: 'the Billion Dollar Princess' would grab hold of her by her long, blonde locks! Chicago erupted as Stephanie dragged Trish back to ringside by her hair, ramming her against the ring apron spine-first. Back inside, Stephanie tugged at Trish further, crazily hurling her across the ring by her hair! Taking a page out of the WWF Champion's book, the daughter of Vince McMahon stomped a mudhole in the corner, with the Allstate Arena crowd eating it up! Trish kicked Stephanie in the gut to escape, but in trying to slip out from the ring under the ropes Stephanie would grab Trish by her trunks! Stephanie tugged at Trish, looking to strip her of her pants! Trish's black thong was on display, but the WWF Diva soon allowed herself to be dragged back inside. By the seat of her trunks, Trish was bent over Stephanie's knee for a good old fashioned spanking, mid-ring!
Trish shielded her thong and adjusted her trunks once more, now angrier than ever before. Stephanie had a smile on her face for the first time in a long time, as the two circled the ring. Unexpecting it, Trish would surprise Stephanie with a clothesline, with the back of 'the Billion Dollar Princess's head hitting the turnbuckle pads. These two were once friends, but now resented one another, evidenced as Trish choked Stephanie in the corner with her boot! Kneeling before McMahon, Trish slapped Stephanie with the official warning of a disqualification. Trish took a page out of Steph's book, dragging her halfway across the ring in mid-air by the brunette's long, curled hair. Trish slapped on a headlock, with the inexperienced Stephanie struggling. She kept trying to fight it, even biting the wrist of Stratus, when Trish slammed Stephanie down to her back on the canvas.
An elbow drop landed for a one count, leading to Trish Stratus growing annoyed with the official. Following with a suplex on Stephanie McMahon she scored a two count, but she clearly wanted this match over with. Pinning Stephanie by binding her at the wrists, Trish pinned Stephanie again when 'the Billion Dollar Princess' got her feet up for a monkey toss! Trish went over, when Stephanie rolled on top of her: soon stripping the black shirt from Trish's body! The blonde bombshell shielded her chest in horror, her bra on full display. Trish covered up all she could as the males of Chicago wanted more - when a toe kick from Stephanie would send Trish through the ropes to the floor! Stratus again hoped to run from Stephanie, with McMahon following ringside. Dramatically Trish tried to hide at the timekeeper's table, when a drop toe hold sent Stephanie face first into the small table! Trish rammed Steph face-first against the surface before climbing atop it.
Strutting in her bra, Trish showboated the applauding men in attendance on top of the timekeeper's table when Stephanie would drag her down! The two rolled off of the table, both jockeying for control and nearly crashing into the laps of Jim Ross and Paul Heyman on commentary. Heyman thanked God above for the bountiful treat, when Stephanie got even by bouncing Trish's face against the announce table twice! Stephanie choked Trish with a television cable on the floor, with the referee having no choice but to follow the action. Upon the official's instruction Stephanie rolled Trish back into the ring, and attempted an Angle Slam just for Trish to score with the bulldog! Out of breath, Trish took time to get the pin, but Stephanie got her foot on the bottom rope at the count of two. Trish accused the referee of bias, arguing with him in the middle of the ring. It bought Steph time to clothesline Trish down to the canvas, before dropping her with the DDT!
Steph crawled to make the cover, when Vince McMahon ran out to the ring for a second time tonight! The Chairman hit the ring, immediately grabbing his daughter by the shoulder! Turning Stephanie McMahon around, the WWF Owner scowled at his own flesh and blood with rage. Furious with what 'the Billion Dollar Princess' had done to his mistress, Stephanie absorbed the harsh words and criticism of her Dad before abruptly slapping him across the face! Vince was stunned, as Stephanie turned back to Trish. Vince finally laid his hands on his daughter, grabbing her by the hair. Vince had warned Steph, but before he could do anything, Shane McMahon hit the ring from ringside and took down his old man! Shane tackled Vince out to the floor, with Shane mounting Vince with right hands! Back inside, Trish had scored a roll-up for a near fall, when Stephanie surprised Trish: the Pedigree landing, allowing Stephanie to pick up the win!Winner: Stephanie McMahon (10:25) Shane McMahon could only smile from ringside, dressed in his baseball jersey. After the chair shot from Vince McMahon earlier tonight, the WCW Owner had gotten even with the Chairman by jumping him at this match's conclusion. It was not pretty, but when it was over Stephanie McMahon came out victorious! 'The Billion Dollar Princess' came to her feet, her hand raised by the referee. Trish Stratus spluttered in pain from the canvas, with Steph trash talking and standing over her. Both Trish and Vince McMahon were down, when Shane would join his sister in the ring. They hadn't seen eye to eye in some time, but Shane O'Mac would congratulate Steph from afar before stepping out of the ring and clapping. Stephanie appeared reluctant after months of manipulation prior to WrestleMania, but raised his fists in triumph regardless - having beaten Trish handily tonight at Backlash!
The main event had arrived, a buzz felt throughout the Allstate Arena all day long. The WWF Champion walked with a purpose. In black trunks, red knee braces and a black and red leather vest, Stone Cold Steve Austin clenched the WWF Championship from his palm whilst wife Debra followed silently over his shoulder. So much was riding on this match, with 'the Texas Rattlesnake' in the zone with the target on his back.
Cutting to Triple H, who doused himself in water. Jacked to the gills and prepped for this big moment, the black trunk wearing 'Cerebral Assassin' had waited too long for this night. The WWF Championship was something 'the Game' had not held since Backlash last year, since losing to The Rock. After beating Rock at WrestleMania, Austin was the only thing standing in the way of Triple H's true redemption. This was the match everybody had been waiting to see, with even the WWF Superstars in the locker room placing their bets!
A video package aired, bringing us to tonight's main event between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H. Stone Cold Steve Austin accomplished the goal he set out to do for nearly two years, with his win against The Rock at WrestleMania. It made the career-threatening neck injury; the surgery and the rehabilitation worth it for 'the Texas Rattlesnake', as he reclaimed his throne as WWF Champion. Triple H accomplished a pinnacle victory in his career against Shawn Michaels in an all-out instant classic. Yet now the dust had simmered, these two career rivals had made it to this point. It was Triple H who would emerge as number one contender. One year of redemption for 'the Game' led him here, having lost everything and worked his way back to the gold. There was no love, as Austin and Triple H had clashed at every given turn. Tonight, with the WWF Championship at stake, one man's fairytale would have a happy ending - the other would be left in agonizing defeat!
We returned to the sold-out Allstate Arena, where the lights dimmed. The introduction to "The Game" by Motörhead roared through the arena leading Chicago to provide a heavily mixed reaction. As a dripping wet Triple H stepped out to the arena, 'the Game's face told the story. A burning look of intimidation was on the face of the challenger, as he doused himself in water before spitting out a mouthful. Making a march towards the ring, Triple H slowed down as he approached the ringside before stepping up to the apron. He'd waited 364 days to hold the WWF Championship again, and now was his chance. The road to redemption had brought him here - having lost everything to make it to Backlash 2001. He spat the water out with his fists high in the air, before climbing into the ring to pose and flex on the second turnbuckle. In his own mind, tonight was Triple H's night where everything would come full circle: and he'd walk out WWF Champion!
There was a long pause as Triple H paced the ring. Chicago, Illinois anticipated his opponent's arrival when the glass shattered. "Glass Shatters" by Disturbed rang out across the Allstate Arena, and out came the intense WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin! Chicago provided a similarly mixed reaction for 'the Texas Rattlesnake', as he locked eyes on the distant challenger. They had been career rivals, and he had been indirectly responsible for 'the Game' losing the WWF Championship at last year's Backlash. Tonight was their long-anticipated meeting, and Austin fearlessly climbed into the ring to climb the second rope and salute the sellout crowd. Turning to come face to face with Triple H, the referee would stand between the two warriors. Who would have the power after this?9) WWF Championship Stone Cold Steve Austin (c) vs Triple H There was a fever pitch in Chicago, these two lifelong rivals locking eyes in the middle of the ring. What a difference a year could make, as this time last year Triple H had everything. He had the WWF Championship, a wife in Stephanie McMahon, family in the united McMahon Family, and the best friends in the business in D-Generation X. Now, he had none of those things. 'The Game' had beaten Stone Cold Steve Austin before to retain the WWF Championship, at No Mercy 1999. Now, the chips were different. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' had endured the trials and tribulation of a career-threatening neck surgery, won the 2001 Royal Rumble match and last month defeated The Rock to recapture the WWF Championship. The man to beat, Triple H stood in his way of being the man atop the WWF mountdown; and Stone Cold stood in Triple H's way of absolute redemption. They'd brawled across arenas and parking lots to make it here - where there could only be one WWF Champion!
Trash talking commenced as Chicago readied themselves for the main event. The sellout crowd in the Allstate Arena were split on who they wanted to cheer for. Mixed reactions and commotion filled the air, as the two jawjacked before exploding into a fist fight! The crowd roared in a reflection of Stone Cold's WrestleMania meeting with The Rock four weeks ago, as the two combatants exchanged right hands! 'The Game' sent the WWF Champion off the ropes, only to miss the Harley Race high knee. Stone Cold hit the ropes looking for the Lou Thesz press, but Triple H would sidestep it and lock in an early sleeper hold. Stone Cold swiftly broke free of it, using his punching ability to hammer the challenger. Another striking match ensued, with 'the Texas Rattlesnake' cornering 'the Game' and soon stomping a mudhole in the corner! Triple H rocked Austin with a right hand to the jaw, switching it up and cornering Austin with haymakers himself.
The referee was too reluctant to get between the two men, as Triple H stomped a mudhole now into Stone Cold. Whipped into the opposite corner, Steve Austin would come out with the Lou Thesz press landing! Decking 'the Game' relentlessly on the way down, both men would soon come to their feet in respective corners - Austin laughing at Triple H. 'The Game' smirked back at the WWF Champion, when the two would meet one more time with right hands exchanged! Triple H gained the upper hand this time around, climbing to the second rope and kneeing Austin in the side of the head. Stone Cold shoved him backwards and collided with more right hands, before shooting 'the Game' into the ropes. Triple H responded with the high knee strike reminiscent of former NWA World Heavyweight Champion Harley Race. Mounting the champ with right hands, Austin would kick back before getting the go-behind and scoring a waistlock takedown.
Applying his body weight as pressure on the back of Triple H with the waistlock applied, the challenger would simmer to his feet before thrusting Austin into the corner with a back thrust. Shoulder thrusts to the abdomen followed, Triple H going back to stomping a mudhole. Austin switched it around and stomped a mudhole in return, when finally referee Earl Hebner admonished the WWF Champion and talked him down. Triple H climbed to the second rope but was caught during an axe handle attempt with a punch to the ribs in mid-air; Austin quickly applying an abdominal stretch. 'The Game' decided to slowly power his way back, executing a backbreaker that would give the challenger the first near fall in this match. Triple H duked Stone Cold with mounted punches, when Austin kicked back. With a toe kick, Stone Cold was back on his feet and hit the ropes, but 'the Game' would duck a clothesline and connect with a neckbreaker!
The WWF Champion's surgically repaired neck was something to note, as Triple H stomped away at Stone Cold without mercy against the ropes. What length was either man willing to go to, to walk out of Backlash tonight the champ? 'The Cerebral Assassin' followed 'the Texas Rattlesnake' out to ringside, where Triple H continued to land hard strikes on a defensive Stone Cold by the barricade. Triple H distanced himself before charging, when Austin was able to back body drop 'the Game' over the barricade into the front row of the crowd! They'd done this on RAW is WAR six nights ago, and once again tonight, Austin would follow 'the Game' into the crowd! The two went at it among the sea of Chicagoans in attendance, with the official following suit. Stone Cold gained an opening and attempted a suplex on the concrete floor, but Triple H would pick the legs and send Austin spine-first on the hard, unprotected floor!
The two deep into the Allstate Arena crowd, Triple H rammed the spine of Steve Austin against the hockey boards on the arena's floor, before dragging him close to ringside. Hurling the WWF Champion back over the barricade, Triple H would toss Stone Cold into the ring. In firm control, Triple H drope a calculated knee drop into the temple of the champion, covering for a near fall. Applying a sleeper hold, the challenger had successfully dictated the pace of this major confrontation. 'The Game's conditioning in the ring was second to none, as he wore the WWF Champion down until he faltered. The referee surveyed Austin, who would shove the official's hands away from him. Elbowing the gut of 'the Game', Austin would hit the ropes only to walk directly into the abdominal stretch. Driving his elbow into the ribcage of the champ, Triple H was no slouch when it came to technical wrestling. Austin again elbowed his way out of it, firing shots at the challenger, who struck with a big clothesline!
Triple H wrenched the wrist of Stone Cold and roped him into another hard clothesline, the challenger putting the boots to Steve Austin's shoulder. Chicago rallied behind Stone Cold, when 'the Game' sent Austin into the corner. Setting him up on the top rope, Triple H had to be looking for a superplex - when Austin would punch him until he collapsed to the canvas below. The diving axe handle was attempted, but Triple H would catch him with another sleeper hold applied! Austin tried fighting, but grew too dazed in the hold. Fading, much like his reign was, the referee had no choice but to check the hand for it to drop limp twice. On a third and deciding check of Austin's consciousness, he would hang in the fight and hope to punch free. Unsuccessful in his efforts, Stone Cold succeeded with a back suplex to freedom! The referee began the count with both men down, when Stone Cold raged to his feet to meet Triple H with more right hands.
'The Game' responded, rocking Austin. He'd hit the ropes, only to be draped throat-first on the top rope with the Stun Gun! 'The Rattlesnake' stumbled to the second rope, dropping an elbow smash across the bridge of the nose of the challenger! Stone Cold argued with Earl Hebner regarding the near fall, when Stone Cold drove a succession of knee lifts into the anatomy of Triple H in anger. Triple H came back with right hands, only to be struck with a flapjack from the WWF Champion for a two-count. Stone Cold was unsatisfied with the count, and rallied the Allstate Arena in draping Triple H's head over the second rope. With his knee resting on the back of his head for pressure, Austin hit the ropes and rammed his knee over the back of 'the Game's head! Steve Austin applied the Boston crab on 'the Cerebral Assassin', causing him to rive in pain. On a night where Chris Benoit beat the Undertaker via referee stoppage in the Sharpshooter, anything could happen. Instead, 'the Game' made it to the bottom rope.
'The Rattlesnake' surlily and slowly broke the hold at the referee's count of three, with Triple H's head hanging from the ring apron. Austin dropped an axe handle off the apron across the jaw of his rival, sending him tumbling to the floor head-over-heel. Austin was now the man in control, and sent his threat into the steel steps with a thud. A clothesline knocked Triple H down hard on the ringside floor, when back inside 'the Bionic Redneck' dragged him into the corner for more mudhole stomps. Driving his knee against 'the Cerebral Assassin's face, wedged against the bottom turnbuckle pad, Austin was met with some boos from the people as he was warned by the official again. Stone Cold executed a suplex for a near fall, before applying the Million Dollar Dream from a seated position. 'The Game' slowly forced Stone Cold back into the corner after some struggle, but as Triple H found freedom he would take off for the ropes - to be dropped with a ruthless spinebuster from Austin!
It would only garner a near fall from WWF senior official Earl Hebner, but Stone Cold would not skip a beat in locking in a sleeper hold from the ground. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' had succumbed and survived Triple H's sleeper holds earlier, and now 'the Game' struggled to make it back up. From a kneeling position, the WWF Champion had the challenger at his mercy now, as the referee checked on Hunter's condition to two limp hand-drops. On a third, Triple H's fist froze in mid air, and shook angrily. Gaining a second wind, 'the Game' rocked Austin off with right hands and elbow strikes, but in hitting the ropes both men would be knocked down! Backstage, the APA's office was packed with WWF Superstars rallying for the man they placed their bet on to walk out - Bradshaw leading the pack at the television monitor with a wad of cash in hand! The referee counted both men out reluctantly, when Triple H would clash Austin with a clothesline that dazed him.
'The Rattlesnake' would punch back, when a second clothesline would further stun Stone Cold. Triple H dropped him with the DDT, but the WWF Champion defiantly broke out at two! The challenger could taste the gold, as he hoisted Austin back to his feet. Hitting the ropes, Austin would duck the clothesline and hit the ropes - dropped by a spinebuster reminiscent of all-time great Arn Anderson! Ramming the back of Austin's head against the canvas, Austin would soon block it with punches of his own. Powering 'the Game' up to the top rope, both men teetered as they scrapped for supremacy - when the WWF Champion would deliver a massive superplex on 'the Game!' Triple H fell out to the floor, with Austin slowly following - this match had be taking a huge physical toll on both participants! At ringside, Stone Cold bounced Triple H's head off the announce table's desk. Sending it flying out of sight, its exterior was exposed.
'The Bionic Redneck' climbed atop the Spanish announce table and dragged his opponent up with him by the hair. Soon, a fist fight would break out with both men jockeying for position. Chicago was abuzz, when Triple H teased the Pedigree through the table - but Austin would trip him spine-first on top of the table! Climbing onto the barricade behind it, Austin would deliver another double elbow drop driving Hunter - and the table - through to the floor! Both men were down and hurting, as the official came ringside to check on their wellbeing. What would it take to bring a decisive victor? As the Allstate Arena sat restlessly, Steve Austin dragged 'the Game's carcass back into the ring. A cover was made, but miraculously Triple H powered out at the count of two! The champion was growing agitated with each near fall, as Stone Cold argued with the referee. Triple H stirred, turned him around for a right hand, when Austin came back. In the head of battle, Austin ducked a shot - and down went Earl Hebner!
As Triple H appeared dismayed at the laid out official, Stone Cold reared up with serious right hands. Hitting the ropes, the WWF Champion delivered the Lou Thesz press once again before sizing the challenger up for the Stone Cold Stunner. Blocking it, Triple H would delve deep and low blow Austin to escape its wrath! Faltering out to the floor, Triple H would stumble across the sledgehammer from beneath the ring. Contemplating it, 'the Game' looked it up and down in his hands, before sliding into the ring! Stalking Austin, Triple H prepared to swing the deadly weapon at the WWF Champion - to complete his 364-day journey. Triple H waited for Austin to rise, but dropped the sledgehammer, and dropped Austin with the Pedigree! 'The Game' covered Austin, as blood dripped down his face - but Earl Hebner was still out cold in the corner of the ring. 'The Game' decided to try and revive him, but in taking his eyes off of Austin, Stone Cold responded by clocking Triple H with the sledgehammer!
Both men were hungry for the WWF Championship, and both men were willing to do diabolical things to walk out of Backlash the man on top of the World Wrestling Federation mountain! Desperation had set in for Austin, who covered as Earl Hebner slowly counted the pin - but Triple H came to life at the count of two! Chicago cheered for Triple H, as Stone Cold waited patiently for the Stunner - but Triple H would throw the leg of Austin away. The neckbreaker connected once more, but both men, exhausted, laid prone on the canvas! They were both lifeless, when Kurt Angle hit the ring! 'The Megastar' was unsuccessful in beating Triple H to be named number one contender two weeks ago on RAW is WAR, and now the red trackpants adorned Olympic Gold Medalist was in the middle of the ring of this important title fight! Clutching the sledgehammer in his grasp, 'the Megastar' swung for Austin, only to be hit with a spinebuster! It gave Triple H time to deliver a second Pedigree - but again the referee was out!
Triple H had the worst luck in Illinois, as he rolled over to tend to the incapacitated Earl Hebner. With some struggle, 'the Game' dragged the referee by the collar to his feet. Behind him however, Kurt Angle would drill him with a sledgehammer shot to the face! The bloodied Triple H slumped into the corner with a hazed look on his face, as Angle left the ring and took a stand on the aisleway. Inside, Triple H used everything in his power to come back up to a vertical basis, where Stone Cold Steve Austin would deliver a finite Stone Cold Stunner! The referee was slow to count, but Stone Cold had beaten 'the Game!'Winner, and still WWF Champion: Stone Cold Steve Austin (22:53) Not on this night, was Triple H successful in making the year a round trip journey back to the WWF Championship! Once again, 'the Game' had been denied his absolute redemption of once again becoming the possessor of the richest prize in the business. Stone Cold Steve Austin was left laying atop Triple H, clearly a beaten man himself. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' stooped to inhumane levels to retain his title, but ultimately it was partly in thanks to Kurt Angle! 'The Megastar' watched intently from ringside, with Austin soon snatching the WWF Championship. Stone Cold used the ropes to bring himself back to his feet, having done whatever necessary to put away 'the Cerebral Assassin', even resorting to desperate tactics involving the dreaded sledgehammer. As Triple H remained flat on his back looking up to the lights, Stone Cold stumbled to the second rope to raise the title belt high.
Acknowledging Kurt Angle, 'the Rattlesnake' surely did not appreciate the Olympic Gold Medalist's input. Angle's time would surely come with a can of whoopass in the future, as he gestured wanting the gold around his own waist. As Angle left, Stone Cold caught two beers from the heavens and cracked them both open. Tonight, a beer bash celebration was in order - as Austin had endured the Backlash of this WWF Championship war!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 23, 2021 5:41:55 GMT -5
RAW is WAR - April 30, 2001 Bradley Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin Live on TNN
The opening video package aired, bringing us to the pyrotechnics and roar of the crowd in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Twenty-four hours following Backlash, Jim Ross and Paul Heyman welcomed us to RAW is WAR, on a night where the McMahon Family were all already in attendance.
- TONIGHT: Edge and Christian vs Chris Jericho and WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven in a Hardcore Number One Contender's match
- TONIGHT: The Dudley Boyz vs The Radicalz
- TONIGHT: Paul Heyman interviews Rhyno in the ring
- Stone Cold Steve Austin came bounding down the rampway to an electric response from the capacity crowd in the Bradley Center. The WWF Champion was met with adulation from the crowd, as he spoke about his war with Triple H. He gave him two thumbs up and a stamp of approval - 'the Game' took the beating of his life, and did everything he could possibly do to take the WWF Championship away from him. But it just so had it, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' brought his A-game, too. When the night was done, he walked out with the belt on his shoulder, and while Triple H was one tough son of a b*tch - he wasn't a knock on ol' Stone Cold! Stone Cold Steve Austin reminded the crowd of who he was, and that he was the WWF Champion. While he knew 'the Game' was off somewhere crying, licking his wounds; Austin didn't want him to lick too long, because Stone Cold wasn't about to stop where last night ended!
'The Texas Rattlesnake' called out Kurt Angle, calling him a dumb son of a b*tch for sticking his nose where it didn't belong. Stone Cold knew exactly what 'the Megastar' was after, and that's a shot at the WWF Champion! Austin was willing to wait for the Olympic Gold Medalist to respond, but instead out walked Chris Benoit! With a smirk on his face, 'the Rabid Wolverine' congratulating Steve on how he did everything in his power to win last night. Steve did prove Chris wrong, because he'd never seen such a cowardly, desperate champ like the man before him! 'The Wolverine' accused 'the Rattlesnake' of having skeletons in his closet, and brought up his submission win against the Undertaker last night at Backlash! Benoit bragged about making 'the Deadman' submit for the first time in a decade of destruction, when Stone Cold told Benoit was full of cr*p! Austin reminded Benoit that the Undertaker didn't tap out or say "uncle" last night at Backlash, and that maybe in his sick deluded mind, Benoit thought Austin was the guy that really gave a rat's ass.
'The Rabid Wolverine' told Steve Austin that he could believe whatever he wanted to believe, but Chris believed that made him next in line for a title shot! Benoit wasn't willing to wait, laying out the challenge for the WWF Championship tonight in Milwaukee! Steve had been waiting for it and told Benoit now he was talking. He would open up a can of whoopass tonight, but who was to say they had to wait until later. Calling out the best technical wrestler in the world, Austin offered Benoit to take a pop at the champ right now, and Benoit entertained the idea! Heading to ringside, Chris hopped up to the apron, but instead turned heel and headed back up the rampway. Benoit told Austin he'd see him tonight, and vowed to make him cry like a b*tch worse than the Undertaker! Austin smirked, ready to go - but could he outlast Benoit, twenty-four hours after overcoming Triple H?
- TONIGHT: Stone Cold Steve Austin (c) vs Chris Benoit for the WWF Championship
- Big Show was despondent after the loss to Kurt Angle, when approached in the locker room by WCW Owner Shane McMahon. Shane was on cloud nine after beating Commissioner William Regal at Backlash, but urged Show to know how desperate 'the Megastar' was to win last night. Shane reminded him of how ill-treated he had been by the likes of Regal and Vince McMahon, and how it exposed just how undervalued 'the World's Largest Athlete'. Shane again asked if Show had considered his offer to join WCW, but 'the Giant' told him that he left WCW to come to 'the Land of the Giants' to prove that he could do this. It would have to be something he'd consider. Shane accepted this, then told Show that he was always his favorite member of the Coalition. He could make Show the biggest star in this business since Andre the Giant. Shane told Show to think about it, before patting him on the shoulder. Show was left to contemplate his next move.
Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus stepped out of a limousine to be greeted by Commissioner William Regal. Despite the loss to Shane McMahon, 'the Goodwill Ambassador' was upbeat, cheerily greeting them. Trish feigned a headache whilst the Chairman appeared defeated. He told Regal how dreadful Backlash went - Shane was still under WWF contract, and Stephanie had womanhandled his angel Trish. But it was all made possible by he himself. Vince pulled Regal aside and apologized, telling him he did a great job last night against Shane, but questioned where he was when Shane was kicking his ass later that night. The Englishman said he was having his nose fixed at the emergency room, after what that sodding scoundrel Shane did to him. Vince nodded, when Regal asked his agenda for tonight. Candidly, the WWF Owner planned to do what he planned all along - and offer a truce; a way out - to his daughter 'the Billion Dollar Princess'. Regal was shocked!
- 1) WWF Tag Team Champions The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray, D-Von and Spike Dudley) def. The Radicalz (Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko) (4:15)Losing out on the WWF Tag Team Championships at Backlash in the Tables match was one thing, but for Perry Saturn it was personal, as his girlfriend Terri was driven through the wood by the Dudley Boyz. Spike goaded him, but it eventually led to Dean Malenko striking with a backbreaker. The Radicalz took control with Eddie Guerrero coolly leading the pack. Spike reversed a suplex from Saturn to make the tag, and before long D-Von and Bubba Ray hit the Wazzup on Malenko. D-Von brought the wood, blasted by 'Latino Heat'. Spike endured a powerbomb from Dean, but the Texas Cloverleaf saw Spike send him into the turnbuckle. The Dudley Dog capitalized, scoring Spike the upset victory!
The roll of the WWF Tag Team Champions continued following Backlash, with the Dudley Boyz celebrating in the ring. D-Von and Bubba Ray rushed to join Spike in his over-excited celebration, leaving Perry Saturn scowling in anger from ringside. Eddie Guerrero calmed him down, as the Radicalz gathered Dean Malenko and backed up the rampway.
- Jonathan Coachman was backstage with WWF Hardcore Champion Kane. Asking him about his domination over the WWF Hardcore Championship division, the Coach wondered what was next for 'the Big Red Machine'. Before answering, Kane caught a mid-flight Essa Rios in his arms, and carelessly dumped him into the mesh fence behind he and Coach! Kane calmly explained he would keep destroying anybody in his path. At his size, his power and his tolerance of pain, nobody would even dare pry the title from him. And if nobody came for the seven-foot monster, he would come for them. Kane then glared off-screen, coming face to face with Rikishi and Scotty 2 Hotty. The two big men confronted each other, with 'Big Kish' removing his sunglasses. The champ's comments sounded like fighting words, and the Samoan challenged Kane for the title tonight in the ring! After a hair flick, Kane told Rikishi he was on.
- TONIGHT: Kane (c) vs Rikishi for the WWF Hardcore Championship.
Kurt Angle was psyched up after beating Big Show last night, when Stephanie McMahon entered the dressing room. She smiled to 'the Megastar's surprise, not expecting to see her. Stephanie wished to come by and congratulate him on his win last night - the Big Show didn't eat him, like Kurt said he would! Angle chuckled, leaving an awkward pause between the two partners. The Olympic Gold Medalist congratulated her on beating Trish Stratus, and was flattered to see Steph attempt the Angle Slam. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' laughed, when Kurt brought up the Pedigree that gave her the win. She explained in the heat of the moment, she remembered her training with Triple H. Angle hid his annoyance, chuckling in return. After another awkward silence, Steph brought up Kurt being in line for a WWF Championship shot, and brought up how happy he seemed. Kurt admitted he was, when Steph nervously told Kurt she would see him later. What a difference a break could make.
- 2) Test def. Albert (w/D-Lo Brown) (2:45)What had been brewing since March was about to see T&A explode in a singles match. Test met Albert with haymakers before the bell sounded, but the Canadian was able to outlast 'the Freight Train'. A distraction from D-Lo Brown at ringside saw Albert land a huge shoulder tackle, giving him momentum to choke away and brutalize Test with hard strikes. An impressive gorilla press slam was not enough, but Test would fight a neck crank and dodge the bicycle kick. Sidestepping it, Test broke free from the Baldo Bomb, before hitting the ropes for the Big Boot, giving the stallion the win!
Test had defeated Albert in singles action, but D-Lo Brown was not pleased. His briefcase of money in hand, 'the Real Deal' hit the ring but missed on the swing - responded with the pumphandle slam from Test! But the Canadian was not finished yet, instead opening the briefcase and throwing dozens of the dollar bills out to the crowd of Milwaukee! D-Lo could do nothing about it, whilst Test left with a big smile on his face.
- Rob Van Dam stretched backstage, when Kevin Kelly asked about his win against Eddie Guerrero at Backlash. RVD said the crowd was pumped him, he and Eddie were jacked up. It ended the way it always did, with the Five-Star Frog Splash. Van Dam explained that was what made him 'Mr. Pay-Per-View;' 'the Whole Dam Show;' 'the Human Highlight Reel'. Maybe people would quit asking what was so cool about him, and admit that was the dude he was. Tazz stomped up, treating Van Dam with hostility. Mad about RVD selling out and coming to the WWF, Tazz said he should have stayed in the bingo halls of Philadelphia. The WWF was Tazz's stomping ground - and there was no place for wasters like him. Van Dam had no problem, congratulating Tazz on the success on Sunday Night Heat - even if Michael Cole was a cooler host than him. Tazz was miffed, calling him out to a match tonight. RVD said whatever, when Tazz told him to beat him if he could, to survive if he let him.
- TONIGHT: Rob Van Dam vs Tazz
- Big Show walked the hall, when confronted by Commissioner William Regal. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' was furious about 'the Giant's chat with Shane McMahon, and couldn't believe the audacity of him thinking about breaching his contract. Show was in no mood, telling him he hadn't done anything, and it was none of his business. Regal begged to differ, reminding Show of the money Vince McMahon paid to hire him back in 1999. The Englishman said he'd been a massive disappointment ever since. Show was angry, not forgetting SmackDown, when Regal threatened having him fired on the spot if he touched him. Regal booked a handicap match tonight, and Show accepted. Scowling, he told William he had toyed with the idea of jumping ship before. After he dominated whoever Regal set in front of him tonight, Show might see what would happen when he touched the Commissioner. Regal fled the scene, leaving Show to grin. Who would he face tonight?
- TONIGHT: Big Show vs TBA in a handicap match.
Steven Richards stood in the ring amidst loud boos, introducing himself to the ingorant and morally corrupt who forgot about the Right to Censor in their absence. Steven insulted the crowd, saying the times were changing. Last night's Backlash saw shoddy officiating by referees; swearing and grotesque use of profanity; public indecency with the shedding of clothes. Parents had probably let their innocent youths watch the carnage, which would have never happened had it been for the RTC. Richards was sickened, and refused to stand for it any longer. Declaring the RTC as reprogrammed to fight the good fight, Steven vowed that this time: they would win the war. Introducing out the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry, Steven had them stand in a line before him. Throwing out a palm, the leader saw all hands in. Reinvigorated and determined, the RTC were ready, when Big Show stomped out to the ring.3) The Right to Censor (The Goodfather, Mark Henry and Bull Buchanan) def. Big Show in a handicap match (1:57)The Right to Censor had been away being "reprogrammed" under orders of Steven Richards, paving the way for Commissioner William Regal to punish Big Show after talking to Shane McMahon about WCW. 'The World's Largest Athlete' swatted Bull Buchanan and Goodfather like flies, when ensuing on a fist fight with Mark Henry. Bull and Goodfather allowed 'the Secret Weapon' to hammer the 500-pounder, this three-on-one match resembling a beatdown. Show sidestepped Mark's big splash, before landing a double Chokeslam on Bull and Goodfather! Mark Henry's running powerslam went awry with Show crushing him, when Steven was grabbed by the tie. Show smiled, but Commissioner William Regal hit the ring and struck Show with two steel chair shots to the skull! The RTC dogpiled on Show, to take the win.
Commissioner William Regal scowled after being threatened by Big Show, who was left prone in the ring. The Right to Censor, reprogrammed and retrained, put the boots to a defenceless 'Giant' in the ring. Steven Richards led the pack ordering the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan hold 'the World's Largest Athlete' down for Mark Henry to land a 400-pound big splash! Hypocrisy in brutality was the RTC's game, as Regal watched on pleased.
- Chris Jericho geared up, ribs still bandaged, with their match ahead against Edge and Christian. WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Tori met him in the dressing room, Raven bombastically commenting the enemy of his enemy was his friend. Pumped up, Raven spoke of how long it took Y2J to see the light and see he was not a rival, but a partner. Y2J was buzzed after winning last night, but tonight was bigger. In a number one contender's match, they had to win. They wanted the shot at the Dudley Boyz next week on RAW is WAR, but first they had to win the Hardcore match tonight. Jericho admitted seeing Raven as bitter enemies after Astrodome Asylum at WrestleMania, but now they were buddies, pals, amigos. Y2J promised victory tonight, before high-fiving Raven. As Y2J left, Raven stood grinning with excitement - Tori watching in silence.
- Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus shared the couch in the his office, Vince pleased by the beating Big Show took from the Right to Censor. He added Shane McMahon was next on the chopping block, but Trish wanted to speak to her lover about his apparent plan for Stephanie McMahon. The WWF Owner explained candidly, when she reminded him of how he didn't need his children in his life - he was better. Vince understood, but believed while Shane was a lost cause, Steph he could be saved. Trish stood up and told Vince he needed to let go and move on. He refused, prompting an argument to ensue! Steph faced her punishment already, and survived it by beating Trish. Stratus was angered and gave Vince the ultimatum: it was either Stephanie, or her! Trish told Vince if he offered this truce tonight, she was gone. Vince left for the ring and told her to stay out of it - and not to say another bad thing about his daughter! Was this a change of heart from the billionaire?
Having promised to offer a truce and a "way out" to his daughter, Vince McMahon strutted to the ring to loud boos from Milwaukee. Speaking out about Backlash not going according to plan, Vince voiced his displeasure that Shane McMahon came out on top. He wasn't happy to call his son and rival promoter a WWF employee, but he wasn't pleased to be standing in the Bradley Center tonight, either! Vince called Wisconsin a cesspool, moving on to talk about the fight to end all fights. Pitting daughter Stephanie McMahon against the love of his life - or so he thought - Trish Stratus, it turned out with 'the Billion Dollar Princess' victorious. Tonight, Vince was a man of his word, believing Steph had learned her lesson. After the ultimatum laid out by Trish, Vince ignored his lover and expressed desire to be a real man for the first time in the while: and call his daughter to the ring. The boss wanted to put everything behind them, and wanted to her to come out so that he could issue a sincere apology. Stephanie McMahon hesitantly made her way down the rampway, unsure what to make of her father's sudden change of heart. 'The Billion Dollar Pincess' did not seem happy despite beating Trish Stratus last night, as Vince knew she was reluctant and had every right to be. She had had her trust broken and her heart broken. Happy memories had gone shattered, and it was all because of the McMahon Family. Not only had Vince had an affair on her mother, with Steph's own best friend; but he and Shane had both tried to manipulate her for months. Vince told Steph with a tear in his eyes that she deserved better. Getting down to his knees, Vince told Steph that he was sorry, and asked what it would take for her to forgive him. The Chairman pleaded with his daughter, wishing for 'Daddy's Little Girl' to return home at last, whilst the crowd continued to boo him. Stephanie in deep thought, considering the apology. She took the microphone, mentioning how many great memories they had shared.
They'd been through hell, and she could tell Dad was serious. Steph said that she would love to come home...but she wouldn't. If there was one thing she knew about Vincent Kennedy McMahon, it was that if there was one thing he was full of - it was bullsh*t! Vince's jaw dropped, when Trish Stratus waltzed out to the stage! In disbelief this was happening, she blasted Vince for allowing himself to be humiliated, all for his flat-chested, overweight bimbo of a daughter! Trish didn't get how Vince couldn't see Steph was a blood-sucking succubus leeching off his name and his fortune. Trish Stratus called Stephanie McMahon a no-good savage dog of a daughter and reiterated that Vince McMahon deserved so much more. But after all of the pathetic sobbing, whimpering and crying - Vince hadn't just lost Stephanie, he'd lost her as well! Trish turned to take a leave, when 'the Billion Dollar Princess' demanded the "sl*t" come back and face her!
Stephanie told Trish if it was more she was after, then why stop at last night? Steph challenged Trish to get her ass in the ring, when Vince grabbed his own daughter by the hair, and slammed her to the canvas! A vengeful look on the boss's face, the Chairman grinned to Trish, shouting he'd known better all along! The amount of times he'd tried to save their family relationship - but Steph was stubborn, like her mother! Vince told Trish to initiate plan B, and declared Steph's punishment had only just begun. As Vince McMahon held Stephanie McMahon down in the ring, Trish walked to ringside and unveiled black tarp from beside the timekeeper's table - it was a mop bucket! It looked grotesque, matted in black slime and sludge. The Chairman ordered Trish bring it into the ring, where Trish squelched the mop in the contaminated water.
She held it to Steph's face, but before mop would meet face out ran Shane McMahon! Vince and Trish ran for the hills to the floor, as a furious Shane O'Mac dared his old man to get in the ring. Stephanie was devastated on her knees in the ring, but Shane would bring his sister to her feet. The McMahon Family was fragmented beyond recognition, as Shane and a seething Stephanie united together against the snarling faces of their father and his mistress on the rampway!
- Edge and Christian walked and talked en route to the arena. Complaining about having to fight the "one hit wonders" again, Edge assured Christian that Chris Jericho and Raven couldn't beat them like they did last night, which they did very unfairly. Even worse, it was for a shot at the WWF Tag Team Championship, but Edge told his brother not to fret. Tonight, they'd beat the reekazoids and get back on track. Next week, they'd beat the Dudley Boyz, but first up saw them laying the law on Y2J and Raven. The two delivered their secret handshake and set out for the ring. Meanwhile, WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven and Chris Jericho walked another hallway, with Tori silently wheeling the shopping cart! The Hardcore match was up next!
A motorcycle pulled up outside the Bradley Center, with the Undertaker accompanied by wife Sara stepping off. The married couple in biker clothing, 'the American Badass' hobbled and removed his sunglasses to reveal a glare on his face. Undertaker spat his tobacco on the floor as his wife asked him what the plan was. Undertaker said nothing, and silently limped off - surely to look for Chris Benoit!
- 4) Chris Jericho and WWF Intercontinental Champion Raven (w/Tori) def. Edge and Christian in a Hardcore Number One Contender's match (4:47)They had put on a tag team clinic last night at Backlash with Chris Jericho and Raven conspiring against the underhanded former champs, but tonight was for a shot at the Dudley Boyz' WWF Tag Team Championships. Tori had provided the shopping cart of tools, as Edge and Christian jumped their opponents in an all-out free-for-all. The taped ribs of Y2J made him a target, and Edge dispatched him with a spear on the floor. The Canadians worked over Raven, when Tori passed him a 2x4 just in time for Jericho's return. An Edge-o-matic took Raven out and Christian handcuffed him to the rope, leaving Y2J to be dropped with an inverted DDT. Edge struck the cuffed Raven with a trash can, as a table was set up on the floor. Tori freed her man with a key, and Raven used a stop sign on Christian, as Jericho and Edge went through the wood with a bulldog from the apron! Raven blocked the Unprettier, and the Evenflow DDT picked up the win!
In the span of twenty-four hours, the unlikely combination of Chris Jericho and Raven had beaten Edge and Christian a second time, in a brutal Hardcore match! Now, they were the number one contenders to the WWF Tag Team Championships. Y2J rolled into the ring in pain, clutching his ribs but hugging Raven all the same. Tori held the WWF Intercontinental Championship and watched closeby, as Y2J and Raven hugged it out on their knees, before embracing on their feet with their arms raised victorious. This strange team had become the underdogs, and next week they would get a shot at the Dudley Boyz!
- RAW IS WAR, NEXT WEEK: The Dudley Boyz (c) vs Chris Jericho and Raven for the WWF Tag Team Championship.
- The McMahon Children talked backstage, Shane McMahon checking on his sister Stephanie McMahon. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' bluntly told him that she had one thing on her mind: kicking their father where it hurt the most. She knew the risk, knowing Dad could stoop to some disgusting lows, but never thought he would go as far as to humiliate her in front of the entire world. The WCW Owner apologized for trying to manipulate her, but assured her this was not about a company takeover. This was no promotional war between WWF and WCW; this was about stopping the ego trip. Shane O'Mac asked Steph what she wanted to do, and she responded: challenging Vince and Trish to an intergender tag team match at Judgment Day! Stephanie walked off, leaving even her brother surprised.
The WWF Women's Champion Chyna glossed over a magazine, whilst Billy Gunn sat reading off 'the Ninth Wonder of the World's upcoming appearances. She was in Los Angeles, Tampa, Toronto; even London this weekend for Insurrextion. Billy praised her, he was proud of her success. Into the room burst Molly Holly urging her cousin not to do this - in came Crash sporting a blue dress, long blonde curled hair - and a fake nose! In drag, he told Chyna that she was a phony and didn't deserve the fame - that was for pretty girls like "herself!" Billy threatened punching Crash out, but he stated "her" name was Crashley. A long-lost sister of Crash, on her mother's side, Billy was baffled. Chyna towered over Crashley looking down on "her". She asked if "she" was looking for a shot at the title. Crashley declared she was, and vowed to kick her butt this Thursday on SmackDown! Crashley left, believing she should have been on the cover of Playboy - not Chyna. Molly shook her head and left, leaving Chyna and Billy to crack up in laughter.
- SMACKDOWN!, THIS THURSDAY: Chyna (c) vs Crashley Holly for the WWF Women's Championship.
- The Undertaker was followed by his wife Sara down the halls, when approached by Jonathan Coachman. Trembling hand and all, the Coach asked 'the American Badass' for his feelings after losing to Chris Benoit by referee stoppage at Backlash. Undertaker asked him if his name was Chris Benoit. Coach said it wasn't, when Undertaker warned him he wasn't interested in talking to him. 'The Deadman' began walking away, when Coach spoke up, informing him that 'the Rabid Wolverine' has a shot at Stone Cold Steve Austin's WWF Championship tonight. Stopping in his tracks, Undertaker murmured and told Coach that they'd see about that.
- Paul Heyman stood in the ring, talking about what a show Backlash was last night. Stone Cold Steve Austin went to war with Triple H; Chris Benoit did the unthinkable and beat the Undertaker in the Sharpshooter; and even Vince McMahon's children Shane and Stephanie McMahon came out on top. But on top of all of that saw his guest lay waste to Jeff Hardy. For 'the Man-Beast', Paul called Jeff his latest victim. Just like Matt Hardy suffered internal bleeding last month from the Gore, and Lita hadn't been seen since the Gore heard around the world last week on SmackDown, now he was sure Jeff had joined Team Xtreme on the sidelines. Paul called Rhyno a former ECW Champion and former WWF Hardcore Champion - welcoming out the 'Mad Animal!' Rhyno came stomping down the rampway, stampeding into the ring and staring a clearly intimidated Paul Heyman in the face.
Heyman backed up and recounted he was on the run of a lifetime, with what he'd done to Team Xtreme, and what he did three weeks ago to Hulk Hogan. Paul asked Rhyno what was next on his path of destruction. Aggressively declaring war on anybody in his way, Rhyno said nobody was meaner than he was, and nobody could stop him. He would not stop, because he was unbeatable. He showed Team Xtreme nobody was as extreme as he was - yet dared anybody in the back to come fight him right now. Jeff Hardy surprisingly answered the call, clutching his ribs and power walking down to ringside! Rhyno dared him into the ring, when Matt Hardy hit the ring with right hands! Rhyno fought him off, when Lita soared with the flying hurricanrana! Heyman fled as the Hardy Boyz hit Poetry in Motion on Rhyno, who bailed to the floor as well. Team Xtreme were back together as a unit, as Matt kissed his girlfriend Lita.
Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus met Commissioner William Regal in his office, the Chairman in disbelief about the McMahon Children teaming up to once again spite him. Trish comforted her partner that everything would be okay, that Stephanie and Shane McMahon would pay dearly for what they did. William asked what they had to say about the challenge thrown out for Judgment Day, with the Chairman declaring that he accepted - much to Trish's own reluctance. The boss then declared that his children would have hell to pay, especially Shane. His son might be WCW Owner, but as far as he was concerned, he was still under his thumb as his employee.
- JUDGMENT DAY, MAY 20: Vince McMahon and Trish Stratus vs Shane and Stephanie McMahon
- 5) Rob Van Dam def. Tazz (3:53)In Tazz's first match in some time, he had called out a former ECW contemporary in Rob Van Dam. After calling RVD a sell-out earlier tonight, 'the Human Suplex Machine' was outwitted by the newcomer's quickness early. The educated feet of 'Mr. Monday Night' allowed RVD to strike with the Rolling Thunder, when a side suplex caught him off guard. The co-host of Sunday Night Heat aggressively put the boots to RVD, when a corner clothesline went missed, into the monkey flip. RVD hit a wheel kick from the apron to Tazz draping the barricade, when Tazz prevented the Five-Star Frog Splash and executed the belly-to-belly suplex from the top rope. The Tazzmission was applied, but RVD rolled backwards - pinning Tazz for a quick win!
'The Whole Dam Show' picked up another win, but it came at the immediate dismissal of a vexed 'Human Suplex Machine'. Tazz pounded on Rob Van Dam to boos from the crowd in the center of the ring, soon locking in the Tazzmission one more time for good measure! Tazz warned RVD to go back to the bingo halls - citing the WWF as "his" neck of the woods. Van Dam tapped out and succumbed to passing out in the relentless koala-like grip of the co-host from Sunday Night Heat, when WWF European Champion Bradshaw hit the ring! Tazz rolled out of harm's way, but the Texan was more than ready for a fight having come to RVD's aid!
- Stone Cold Steve Austin laced his boots, the WWF Championship hanging from the locker behind him. His wife Debra sat asking him if he felt ready for a second defence, twenty-four hours after the war with Triple H at Backlash. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' said he was, and he didn't care how many times he had to fight in whatever period of time. Steve said he was a fighting champion, and he'd bust Chris Benoit's ass tonight like he said he would. In walked the Undertaker accompanied by Sara, bringing 'the Deadman' to stand face to face with 'the Rattlesnake'. Coolly, Undertaker asserted he was only here because Austin had a date with the same man he's after. Austin asked if that was so, telling Undertaker he smelled him from a mile off. The WWF Champion told him Undertaker could get in line, because tonight Benoit's ass belonged to him. Locking eyes, 'the American Badass' told him that was fine - so long as he saved a piece for him, they'd have no problems. 6) Kane (c) vs Rikishi (w/Scotty 2 Hotty and Victoria) went to a no contest for the WWF Hardcore Championship (3:01)'The Big Red Machine' had been unstoppable since becoming WWF Hardcore Champion at WrestleMania, and now had to contend with the recently-returned Rikishi. A fist-fight between the two titans ensued, with Scotty 2 Hotty and Victoria watching from ringside. Kane rocked the big man, but the Samoan powered the 320-pound champ up for the Samoan drop! At ringside Kane turned the tables sending 'Big Kish' into the steel steps, before going to use them just to be thwarted by a trash can interception. Rikishi landed a belly-to-back suplex for a near fall, when Kane fired back throwing a suitcase of luggage at Rikishi from the floor! A flying clothesline saw Kane ready for the Chokeslam, when X-Factor hit the ring targeting his opponents. X-Pac led the troupe, as Lance Storm and Justin Credible also took out an interfering Scotty 2 Hotty - but Kane would get involved, punching out X-Factor!
The WWF Hardcore Champion Kane aided Rikishi and Scotty 2 Hotty in attacking Lance Storm, Justin Credible and WWF Light Heavyweight Champion, with 'the Big Red Machine' blasting both Storm and Credible with a double Chokeslam! Rikishi sandwiched X-Pac in the corner with the hip attack, when the Stinkface was delivered by the 400-pound Samoan! Victoria watched in delight, as Scotty and Rikishi shared the ring with 'the Big Red Machine' - as Kane set off his pyrotechnics! X-Factor was no match for this monstrous combination, an appalled X-Pac retreating from the ring.
- Chris Jericho and Raven celebrated with Tori in the locker room. The WWF Intercontinental Champion was overjoyed, standing atop the bench imitating Y2J's bulldog to Edge, waving his hands around in the air! Hopping off the bench and calling it a work of art, they proved they were destined to be the next WWF Tag Team Champions. Jericho was ecstatic they were pals, buddies, friends and amigos. Next week, the Dudley Boyz were going down to China Town - but they wasted no time in storming the room. D-Von, Bubba Ray and Spike Dudley confronted them, Bubba congratulating the two on their win against Edge and Christian. Spike asked Y2J if he was crazy enough to trust a guy like Raven, bringing Jericho to call Spike an assclown for sticking his nose where it didn't belong. D-Von recited that they would know thy names were Dudley when all was said in blood, and thou shall not mess with the Dudleys. The champs left, when Y2J and Raven made fun of them. He proposed they get ready, because tonight they were going to paint the city of Milwaukee red!
- Chris Benoit was laser-focused on the WWF Championship match, doing press-ups when approached by Michael Cole. 'The Rabid Wolverine' brought up his match with Stone Cold Steve Austin, but asked if he knew the Undertaker had arrived. Benoit chuckled, talking about how he knew 'the American Badass' was here to watch him win the big one. Stone Cold was a man in his way to becoming WWF Champion. He'd proven many, many times before that he was capable of becoming the man, and Austin with all of his insecurities was anything but. 'The Wolverine' said 'the Deadman' could admit whatever he wanted, but even he knew when he had the Sharpshooter locked in that he was going to tap out. He heard the cries and the screams, much like what Austin would feel tonight. In his mind, Undertaker tapped out, and tonight, he was walking out WWF Champion. Meanwhile, WWF Champion Stone Cold Steve Austin was on his way to the ring - title on the line in the main event, up next! 7) Stone Cold Steve Austin (c) def. Chris Benoit by disqualification to retain the WWF Championship (8:24)Both coming off of wins at Backlash against Triple H and the Undertaker respectively, Stone Cold Steve Austin answered the challenge from Chris Benoit as a fighting WWF Champion, and from the get-go it became a competitive, technical battle. Stone Cold had the upper-hand early, when a DDT was the game changer giving 'the Rabid Wolverine' control. Targeting the neck, Benoit landed a shoulderbreaker and a snap suplex before locking in the cross-armbreaker. 'The Rattlesnake' landed a Lou Thesz press and stomped a mudhole in Benoit, when dropped with three sudden German suplexes. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' dodged the Diving Headbutt, before attempting the Stunner just for the Crossface to go locked in. Austin was on the verge of tapping out but made the ropes, when Benoit grabbed a steel chair. Stone Cold responded with the Stunner, when Kurt Angle hit the ring ambushing the WWF Champion!
'The Megastar' got involved in Stone Cold's match last night at Backlash against Triple H, and tonight had put a premature end to Steve Austin's WWF Championship defence against Chris Benoit! Kurt Angle knew in his mind that he was the next in line for a shot at Austin, and 'the Texas Rattlesnake' would succumb to an Angle Slam! Chris Benoit climbed into the ring and got in Angle's face - the two of them had never gotten along - but before the two could come to blows, the lights went out and down the rampway rode the Undertaker and Sara on their motorcycle! 'The American Badass' brought the fight to both men, bad leg and all - when Stone Cold joined in with a steel chair shot to Angle! Benoit bailed from the ring, leaving Austin and Undertaker to share the ring. Angle could be seen on the floor staring down 'the Rattlesnake', who flipped him off and laid the WWF Championship in front of him. Angle wanted Austin, much like Austin was ready for Angle!
|
|
|
Post by DTP. on Sept 29, 2021 6:52:40 GMT -5
20 DAYS AWAY!
|
|