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Post by DTP. on Mar 13, 2021 12:08:03 GMT -5
 RAW is WAR - March 12, 2001
Staples Center in Los Angeles, California
Live on TNN
A video package aired, taking us back to last Thursday night on SmackDown. After Chris Benoit scored a pinfall victory over the WWF Champion in tag team action days prior, it was tag team partner Kurt Angle that believed he was rightful for a rematch to recapture the WWF Championship. Despite WrestleMania being weeks away, coming days after clashing heads with Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock conceded in defending the title against both Angle and Benoit - and he did so with 'the Texas Rattlesnake' sitting right nearby on commentary. Naturally, Austin broke out into a fist fight with Benoit when a desperate Kurt Angle intercepted and nailed Austin with a steel chair, having aimed for Benoit. The Rock would be victorious moments later, though his celebration would be cut dramatically short once 'the Rattlesnake' fired the first major shot in the main event rivalry. Austin left Rock laying at the hands of a Stunner, but how would Rock respond tonight?
The opening video package aired, cutting to the Staples Center for RAW is WAR! Pyrotechnics plummeted across the stage to an enormous ovation from the Los Angeles, Californian crowd on hand. RAW was live, under three weeks away from the Grandest Spectacle in sports entertainment, WrestleMania! Jim Ross alongside Paul Heyman welcomed us to the show on a night where Stone Cold Steve Austin would meet Kurt Angle one-on-one for the very first time! Plus, the Undertaker challenges the WWF Hardcore Champion Rhyno with the title on the line. The Dudley Boyz would receive their rematch at the WWF Tag Team Championships held by Edge and Christian; and in a move made by trialling WWF Commissioner William Regal, the WWF European Championship going title for title with WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho: winner taking home all the gold!
Kurt Angle wasted no time in airing his grievances, walking out to the ring with a serious expression on his face. Unimpressed after everything that went down last week on both RAW and SmackDown, 'the Megastar' climbed into the ring upset about being cheated out of the WWF Championship once again last Thursday night. Kurt claimed to have had the Rock beat, and how if it wasn't for Chris Benoit sticking his nose where it didn't belong, he would have become a three-time WWF Champion! And if it wasn't for Stone Cold Steve Austin's head blocking 'the Rabid Wolverine', Austin wouldn't even need to have worried about tonight's match either! The upset Olympic Gold Medalist recounted how far he had come in two years, how he had accomplished a Hall of Fame-worthy career, and if it wasn't for his ambition to once again climb the mountain top, he could happily retire knowing that he had completed the industry as we know it! Nobody had done what he had accomplished, nobody was more committed and more perseverant than him. Nobody was a fast-enough learner like he was, nor was anybody ever so dedicated to the craft that they could have overtaken him. On top of that - nobody was more patriotic than him either! He was an Olympic Gold Medalist, who won those medals in the 1996 Olympics with a broken freaking neck!
Unlike Chris Benoit, who was a relentless, dangerous street thug at best. Unlike The Rock, who simply got lucky beating him and raises an eyebrow at those with actual wrestling prowess. Unlike Stone Cold Steve Austin, who wears the flag on the redneck pickup truck he drives, and the beer he drinks from. Nobody was a better candidate to headline WrestleMania - or star in any motion picture - than the man that wore the red, white and blue flag better than any American on the planet: Kurt Angle! The Olympian made a demand to Stone Cold to call off the match tonight, because he wasn't going to stop until the job was done. He wanted The Rock, one-on-one, tonight, for the WWF Championship, in Tinseltown! Instead, to a massive eruption...out came Hulk Hogan! Draped in red and yellow, 'the Immortal' Hulkster was back in the World Wrestling Federation! Angle was beside himself, as he watched Hulk strut out with Hollywood in the palms of his hands! 'The American Hero' was meeting another Icon tonight, but it wasn't the WWF Champion, it was the former six time WWF Champion and living WWF Legend: Hulk Hogan! Hogan cupped his hand to his ear and slowly removed his yellow-framed sunglasses upon arriving in the squared-circle. Enamored by the sold-out crowd chanting his name, Hulk took to the microphone and watched as Angle remained baffled by the sighting.
Quizzing Hulk humorously on what the hell he wanted, Hogan told Kurt how he and each and every Hulkamaniac out there knew his story. They all the knew of the highways and byways in which 'the American Hero' had taken to make it to this point in his career. They all knew well of the life and times of Kurt Angle, and after losing the WWF Championship he had every right to feel as frustrated as he did. Hogan recounted the roar of the crowd when he dropped the Legdrop on the Iron Sheik to win his first WWF Championship, and he held that title for three years! But over the past few weeks, when Hulk had been waiting alongside the world for the Showcase of the Immortals, WrestleMania, and sitting down to watch RAW is WAR...he's heard nothing but egotism out of the Olympian's mouth! Hulk gave Kurt props for being a real 'American Hero'...but he wasn't 'the Real American'. When Kurt was soiling his diaper, there was no bigger patriot than 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan! Kurt might be an 'Olympic Hero', but when he went around boasting about wearing the stars and stripes better than the Hulkster, it woke him up something fierce, and they were bound to have problems. 'The Megastar' proclaimed himself to be a bigger star than Hulk Hogan ever could be. Begging the question who the hell Hulk Hogan was in 2001, Kurt Angle confidently asked who the last person Hulk Hogan beat was.
Was it the Ultimate Warrior? Was it Yokozuna? Angle told Hulk with no offense that he had his fifteen years of fame - but now, he was an old man and nothing but! Reiterating just how talented and how successful he was, Angle believed that when Hulk was long gone, dead and buried, the people wouldn't be talking about 'the Icon's legacy: they'd be too busy talking all about 'the Megastar's! Hogan snickered at the remark, telling Kurt just how fond he was of him. There wasn't one person in the back that respected all that the Olympian had accomplished in two short years: a two-time WWF Champion, flagbearer of the company, and undoubtedly a future Hall of Famer. But what was stopping Kurt from reaching the same heights that the Hulkster did in the 1980s wasn't his prowress. It didn't come down to what he said, what he did, or how he behaved. It was about doing it from the bottom of his heart. And Kurt might be a pound-for-pound all-time great in the ring, but he lacked the heart of a true 'Real American' like the Hulkster, brother! Angle told Hogan to spare the veteran's speech, knowing full well Hollywood was Hulk's town. Instead, Hulk told Kurt that he was obsessed with the WWF Championship, and proving he was the absolute best. But if Kurt was serious about becoming half the man he was: why didn't he focus his energy on fighting him at WrestleMania!?
A match of an 'American Hero' against 'the Real American' - to prove that Kurt Angle could put his money where his mouth was! Continuing to sell him on the match, Hulk claimed he craved this moment, just like he had for eight long years. It had been eight years since he walked into WrestleMania, so what did Kurt Angle have to say about lacing his boots to fight 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan!? Los Angeles were loud, anticipating a response from the former WWF Champion. Giving it moments to think, Kurt smirked as he claimed to pity the old man in front of him. Hulk Hogan, a Legend in the business, wanting to fight him at WrestleMania...he was on! Hulk and Kurt went face to face in the middle of the ring before Angle departed the ring. A shocking turn of events had sparked a dream match to be made for WrestleMania. 'The American Hero' versus 'the Real American' in less than three weeks!
A replay aired, taking us to before the commercial break. In a shocking, unexpected challenge, Hulk Hogan made his first appearance since SummerSlam, challenging Kurt Angle to a match at WrestleMania! 'The Megastar' would accept the invitation and engage in a face-off with the Hulkster, before departing the ring. Back live, Kurt Angle was seen trying to pinch the dreams out of his reality-riddled skin, when Kevin Kelly rushed to approach 'the Megastar' for comment. The former WWF Champion admitted just how much he once aspired to be like Hulk Hogan. He once wanted the life that the Hulkster led, and idolized his every move. But that was in the past, and right now Hulk was ruining his legacy! Angle arrogantly believed Hulk was an egomaniac himself, that he was an American hero of a time gone by. This wasn't his world anymore, this was Kurt Angle's time to shine. He was 'the Olympic Hero', he was 'the American Hero', and come WrestleMania he planned to humiliate the senile Hulkster's legacy and make him tap to the Ankle Lock! Angle walked away, when Kevin asked about his match with Stone Cold Steve Austin tonight. Angle brashly turned around mid-walk, telling Kelly he wasn't worried about it. He had 'the Texas Rattlesnake's number! Kurt's vision had clearly been impaired by the challenge of a lifetime.
. 1) Rhyno (c) vs The Undertaker ended in a no contest; Rhyno retains the WWF Hardcore Championship (4:38)Since arriving in the World Wrestling Federation at the Royal Rumble, it had been Rhyno against the world. Biting off more than he could chew, 'the Man-Beast' won the WWF Hardcore Championship at No Way Out, double-crossing the Big Show and making enemies out of the Undertaker and Kane, the Brothers of Destruction. 'The American Badass' was surprised when stepping off his motorcycle before the bell, Rhyno jumping him immediately. Wasting no time, the ECW alumni went blow for blow with Undertaker until being sent packing with a throat thrust. Ever persistent, Rhyno charged up the steel steps, only to catch another uppercut as he landed on the ringside floor with a thud! 'The Deadman' hammered away at the champ inside the ring, hoping to win the title for the first time in his ten-plus year career, but Rhyno remained vigilant. An axe handle off the second rope went caught into a sidewak slam, and the Old School was attempted only for Rhyno to crotch him before Undertaker was blasted over the top rope with a shoulder block! Thinking extreme, Rhyno teased a piledriver on the ringside floor, only for a back drop to save the day for the veteran. Into the crowd they fought, where Undertaker teased a Tombstone Piledriver on the concrete floor, just for Rhyno to slip out and Gore 'the Deadman!' Dragging Undertaker to ringside, Rhyno grabbed a steel chair, though the challenger caught him with a big boot! Undertaker nailed Rhyno in the skull, before setting up inside for the Last Ride. Instead, pyrotechnics erupted from the ring posts bringing out Kane!
The Undertaker relinquished the Last Ride, allowing time for the WWF Hardcore Champion to recover at ringside. Stumped by Kane's unexpected interference, 'the Big Red Machine' angrily confronted 'the American Badass' in the middle of the ring. After coming up short last week on RAW is WAR, the seven-foot monster did not like his half-brother's pursuit of Rhyno as Undertaker questioned his arrival. Suddenly, Rhyno swung from behind with a steel chair shot to the spine! Kane immediately chased 'the Man-Beast' from the ring, who escaped through the crowd. Meanwhile, as Kane helped Undertaker to his feet, 'the Deadman' would grab Kane by the throat! Kane forced Undertaker's hand from him before the leaving the ring. The chase of Rhyno had potential to ruin the Brothers of Destruction's family bond.
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The trialling WWF Commissioner William Regal set up a nameplate on his desk, lining it up perfectly in angle with the door. The WWF European Champion hummed to himself as he took a seat in the chair behind the office table, glancing around to acknowledge the hard work done. The Englishman had set up shop with small Union Jack flags atop the desk alongside a tea pot and cups, a knight's armor set up behind him, and Great British drapes behind him. In walked Jonathan Coachman, wanting to congratulate the Brit and compliment him on the decor, but Regal was disgusted. He did not appreciate being barged in on, and claimed not to be "just" the WWF European Champion anymore. He was the Commissioner. But since Coach wanted to get in his face and rudely ask him questions, Regal was proud with the success of RAW is WAR tonight, in the McMahon Family's absence. It's what he petitioned for for weeks, on television, on WWF.com, and to all of the loyal fans wanting more out of their World Wrestling Federation! William bombastically claimed today a new day for the WWF, and tonight, the Commissioner would do his supporters proud by becoming dual champion: and beating Chris Jericho to become WWF Intercontinental Champion! Regal told Coach to bugger off as he got ready, then smirkingly chuffed with his own handiwork of the office.
Chyna was backstage stretching up for the mixed tag team match to come tonight, when joined by 'the One' Billy Gunn. 'The Ninth Wonder of the World' was happy to see her boyfriend, who hugged and kissed her on the cheek. But Billy was concerned, as he asked how ready she felt for her first match back tonight. The Playboy covergirl remained ecstatic, she had waited for this chance to take down the Right to Censor for two long months! Billy knew how great it would be to get their hands on Steven Richards and Ivory, but hoped Chyna would let him know immediately if something was wrong, so he could have the match stopped. Chyna grinned and told Billy how she appreciated that, but this wasn't just about her condition. This was for everybody the RTC had messed with in the last year. And when it came to Ivory, she would have her way with the WWF Women's Champion tonight, so 'the Real Model' would know what to expect come WrestleMania. Chyna left, while Billy remained reserved on his girlfriend's condition.
. 2) Jacqueline (w/Bradshaw) def. Terri (w/The Radicalz) (1:21)Bradshaw was content with his victory alongside Too Cool last night on Sunday Night Heat against Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko, but tonight was about revenge for Jacqueline against Terri. Last week on RAW is WAR, 'the She-Devil' embarrassed the WWF Diva by whipping her with a leather strap, while last night Jackie returned the favor wanting to get even by humiliating Terri in turn. Saturn kissed his girl before the bell, but Jackie immediately grabbed Terri for a series of snapmares! The only way to win was to put the opponent over their lap and spank her with the leather strap, and the Radicalz took this seriously all dressed in sweats like soccer coaches. Tackling Terri, it was clear the former WWF Women's Champion had Terri's number, when Terri caught her with a big kick to the gut. A suplex connected as she mounted Jackie for a series of slaps, only for the two to roll around the ring with one another. The referee was caught in the process, and Terri would slap him out of a perverted mindset. Jackie caught Terri with a spinebuster and a sidewalk slam, before trying to pull the pants off of Terri! The Radicalz got on the apron, when Bradshaw rushed them with haymakers for Saturn and Malenko! Meanwhile, Terri dropkicked Jackie, but in propping her over her knee, Jackie reversed into the DDT! Placing Terri over her lap now, Jackie exposed Terri's thong and spanked with the leather strap for the win!
The bell sounded, but Jacqueline was not done yet with embarrassing Terri in revenge for last week! 'The She-Devil' screamed in distress as Jackie depantsed her of her ring bottoms completely. Covering her butt in pain, Terri ran for safety into the waiting arms of Perry Saturn. The Radicalz were furious at the loss, but Eddie Guerrero's loud mouth had once again gotten them in trouble, as Bradshaw came after them at ringside! Bradshaw was not about to take anything from Eddie and his boys.
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The Dudley Boyz were in the locker room, as Spike Dudley sat backwards on a steel chair. Over the moon, he was excited to watch tonight as D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley became three-time WWF Tag Team Champions! Speaking a mile a minute, Spike voiced his disdain for Edge and Christian and their cheating ways, their Canadian accents, and their stupid perfect hair. D-Von and Bubba Ray entered the frame, suggesting Spike switch to decaf. Tonight, Bubba was determined to make sure Edge and Christian forget all about their win at No Way Out. There was no Steel Cage tonight, and there would be no tables. D-Von uttered that nothing would get in their way of succeeding, and once again proving to be the most dominant tag team in the entire division! It was theirs for the taking - suddenly the Hardy Boyz and Lita entered the frame. Jeff and Matt smiled at the Dudleys, who were on the defensive. Matt simply wanted to wish their old buddies good luck tonight, as the two teams locked eyes. Spike was fixated on Lita in the background, when Bubba offered to give the Hardys the first shot at the titles once they won tonight. The Hardys appreciated it, and watched the three Dudleys leave. The titles were on the line next!
The Brothers of Destruction were backstage as we returned from the commercial break. The Undertaker was furious at having Rhyno right where they wanted him, but Kane immediately shut his half-brother up. 'The Big Red Machine' got right in the Undertaker's face, telling him that 'the Man-Beast' was his, and his alone. Kane believed this wasn't Undertaker's fight, but 'the Deadman' kicked a production cart away from them and suggested that maybe it was, starting right now. Undertaker left the scene, while Kane threatened to kick his half-brother's ass if he got in his way again.
. 3) Edge and Christian (c) def. The Dudley Boyz (w/Spike Dudley) to retain the WWF Tag Team Championship (5:18) The WWF Tag Team Championships were around the Dudley Boyz's waists for two months, in which time they ran roughshod through every tag team put in their way. That is until Edge and Christian fluked their way to recapturing the gold at No Way Out in the Steel-Cage match. Edge's ribs were still bandaged over two weeks after the fall from the top of the steel structure through two tables, and the Dudleys ferociously went after them. A double flapjack connected, when a Dudleyville Device folowed for an early near fall. Bubba Ray Dudley continued the beating, drilling Edge with a pop-up Bubba Cutter before heading to the second rope and missing a diving senton! It gave Edge time to breathe and tag in Christian, as the champions now targeted the ribs of Bubba. A Poetry in Motion-inspired clothesline connected from Christian, followed up by an inverted DDT. Bubba would fight back in spurts, only to once again be knocked down a peg by Edge with the Edge-o-matic!
The Canadians executed a sidewalk slam into an inverted DDT for a two count, when the arrogance of the champs saw Bubba run through them each with a double clothesline! The tag was made to D-Von, who ran wild on both champs. A back elbow off the ropes scored a near fall, when Bubba came in to break up a double-teaming Edge and Christian. Edge was cleared from the ring, and the Wazzup connected on Christian - with Spike Dudley's distraction! D-Von got the tables with Spike's aid, when Edge would blast both men with the Tag title belts! The referee had been distracted by Bubba, when Christian low blowed Bubba inside. Bubba blocked out of the Unprettier, when Christian ran into the Bubba Bomb set-up! Edge tossed Christian the title belt while distracting the official, when while Spike dragged Edge from the apron, Christian struck with the title belt off Bubba's skull - to retain the titles!
The Dudley Boyz had once again been cheated out of their former WWF Tag Team Championships by the new champs, allowing Edge and Christian to slip away with the gold intact! The Canadians hugged it out in the ring, when Spike Dudley slipped inside and began hammering away at Christian! Spike gave Edge some right hands for good measure, only to be hit hard with a Spear from Edge! Christian left the ring and retrieved two steel chairs, the Toronto brothers setting up an overdue Conchairto to the newest addition to the Dudley Clan!
Instead, out ran the Hardy Boyz accompanied by Lita! Having been cheated themselves by Edge and Christian on SmackDown, Matt and Jeff Hardy also wanted the titles, as Edge and Christian bailed out to the floor. The Hardys then turned to attend to the Dudleys, offering them help back up. Instead, Bubba Ray and D-Von chose to turn around and leave on their own turns. They didn't want or need Team Xtreme's help! There was a lot of history revolving around perhaps the hottest three tag teams in the 21st century.
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The WWF Champion The Rock was seen arriving at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. Having been victorious over Chris Benoit and Kurt Angle last Thursday night on SmackDown, 'the People's Champ' knew full well what he had to say about Stone Cold Steve Austin leaving him laying with a Stunner as SmackDown went off the air. Michael Cole tried and failed to catch up with 'the Great One', as Rock had bigger fish to fry. Rock was heading to the ring, no doubt to address the people of Hollywood - next!
Wasting no time coming out after the commercial break saw The Rock come pacing down the rampway, the WWF Champion officially and one-hundred percent on his way to the main event of WrestleMania X-Seven to meet Stone Cold Steve Austin! 'The Great One' posed on the top rope for the people of Los Angeles to applaud him, before gracing the microphone in the center of the ring. Finally, the Rock had come back to Hollywood. 'The People's Champ' knew what the whole entire world was talking about, how he had heard the people buzzing, and the fans' murmurs, who would come out on top in the biggest main event in WrestleMania history - would it be Stone Cold Steve Austin? Would it be The Rock? To that, the Rock said...it didn't matter. Admitting to having critics in the audience, about as many as Stone Cold Steve Austin had, the whole world was buzzing. Whether they wanted Kurt Angle or Chris Benoit to headline WrestleMania as WWF Champion or not, the Rock proved all of their supporters wrong by laying the SmackDown on their candyasses last Thursday night. To be the WWF Champion, you had to be willing of doing it all, and getting the job done all by yourself...but last Thursday on SmackDown, Rock had a little assist from an unwanted friend by the name - Stone Cold Steve Austin!
Little did anybody know how much the Rock understood why 'the Texas Rattlesnake' did what he did, getting involved where it didn't concern him. The fact of the matter was that Stone Cold wanted one man, and one man only in that ring headlining the Reliant Astrodome. It didn't confuse Rock for one second to see Stone Cold out there fighting Chris Benoit and Kurt Angle, to then lay his own ass out with the Stunner. Himself and Austin had a long and complex history, and reminisced to WrestleMania XV. Rock remembered Austin stomping a mudhole in his ass and walking it dry, to take his title. But a lot had changed in two years. While 1999 was the year of Austin washing out him and the rest of the Corporation with a beer truck, 2001 was the year of the Rock. Now, he was a six-time WWF Champion, and he had learned a hell of a lot more than Steve Austin could ever know. Stone Cold might have spent fifteen long months on the shelf, away from the WWF Championship. He may have fended off career-threatening surgery, overcome extreme rehabilitation and fought through every son of a b*tch within his way of making it to April 1. But when the smoke cleared, the sixty-thousand fans in Houston on their feet, and without a doubt the world standing still...it would be the Rock who would walk away still the WWF Champion.
The glass shattered, bringing out Stone Cold Steve Austin. To an almost-even and electrifying response from the capacity crowd in the Staples Center, the 2001 Royal Rumble winner immediately came stomping out to the ring to confront the WWF Champion! 'The Texas Rattlesnake' was dressed for battle later tonight against Kurt Angle, but for now had business to attend to with 'the People's Champ'. Immediately coming to lock eyes with the Rock, Los Angeles went wild at the sight. Austin and Rock remained fixated on one another, when Austin told Rock that was one cute little speech. If Rock wanted an explanation for why he cleaned house and took care of business last Thursday, it was about more than what went down years ago. It was about more than that cheap little headbutt they exchanged last week on RAW, which he sure as hell did not appreciate. Stone Cold could not estimate just how long it had been brewing, but he had a feeling a long, long time ago that he and Rock were born for this moment. At WrestleMania, it wasn't just about a fifteen-month journey from injury, to the sidelines, to coming back and hauling ass back to the richest prize in the business. It was about two polar opposites that the whole world revolved around finally butting heads, to find out who the tougher man was! Rock might well be the WWF Champion, but in twenty days at the Grandaddy of Them All, Austin could not wait to do exactly what he did two years ago, and do exactly what he can do on any given night: and that is beat the Rock to again become WWF Champion!
The building began to erupt, as the Rock took a casual walk around whilst locking eyes with Stone Cold Steve Austin. 'The People's Champ' knew exactly what Stone Cold Steve Austin was getting at it. He was counting down the days, no doubt he had been since the moment he was sidelined by the career-ending neck injury. He had waited for April 1, ever since he came back. He had longed for the main event of WrestleMania, ever since he won the 2001 Royal Rumble match. And in twenty short days, Stone Cold would meet one-on-one with 'the Great One', a house on fire looking for retribution. But the question remained, with all of the injuries sustained, and all of those months Austin missed out on. Did 'the Texas Rattlesnake' still have what it took to go one-on-one with the Rock? A fierce staredown continued once again, with neither man moving a muscle. Instead, the trash talking began, the egos of the two biggest stars in the business taking focus. Rock whispered softly into the microphone for the best man to win at WrestleMania...but there could be only one. Rock dropped his microphone and left the ring, leaving 'the Rattlesnake' left in the ring to digest his fiercest foe's comments. WrestleMania was right around the corner and the stakes could not be any higher. Yet Austin still had to meet Kurt Angle, tonight!
Back live on RAW is WAR, the WWF European Champion William Regal was seen lacing his boots inside of his lavish office. The WWF Commissioner on trial was preparing for winner takes all against Chris Jericho later tonight, when barraged by the Dudley Boyz and the Hardy Boyz arguing into the room! Spike Dudley and Lita followed having words of their own, as Regal repeatedly bellowed at the two trios to shut up and speak one at a time! D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley bluntly stated a case for being screwed by Edge and Christian tonight, and wanted another shot at the WWF Tag Team Championships. Jeff and Matt Hardy demanded the same - they were screwed out of beating Edge and Christian last week on SmackDown, but they wanted the titles too! William understood the situation and knew of their frustrations, but reasoned to come back later: he was preparing for his own title match tonight with WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho! Team Xtreme and the Dudleys broke out into another argument, when William demanded silence once again - this was a place of business, the World Wrestling Federation was not a bloody fairground! Giving in to their demands, Regal made it official for SmackDown this Thursday: Edge and Christian would defend the gold against both the Hardys and the Dudleys in a three-way tag team match. Regal told them to bugger off, and they finally complied.
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The Right to Censor were in the ring ahead of mixed tag team action, as Steven Richards and WWF Women's Champion Ivory were introduced to the hostile Hollywood crowd. Bull Buchanan, the Goodfather and Mark Henry stood surrounding them in their own applause, moments away from Steven and Ivory's match with Chyna and 'the One' Billy Gunn. Instead of either of them however, out came the WWF Divas Ambassador Debra with a crew of referees! The leader of the Divas division stood on the rampway with a microphone in hand, as she reminded the RTC of the rules of this mixed tag match: they fell directly in line with her jurisdiction as authority over the women's division. That meant that this match against Chyna and Billy Gunn would take place - but Goodfather, Buchanan and Mark Henry were all banned from ringside! The referee came down to escort a livid RTC away from the ring, to which they reluctantly complied. Steven and Ivory were furious and in disbelief, when Chyna and Billy Gunn made their way down the rampway, heading for the ring!
4) WWF Women's Champion Ivory and Steven Richards def. Chyna and Billy Gunn (3:10)It was made official that WrestleMania would see 'the Role Model' Ivory put the WWF Women's Championship on the line against 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' Chyna. 'The One' Billy Gunn still appeared wary of his girlfriend's condition after suffering a near tragic neck injury eight weeks ago at the hands of the Right to Censor. Despite this, there was no Right to Censor at ringside tonight. Billy Gunn immediately throttled Steven Richards in the corner, before snapmaring him around the ring with his tie! Steven was able to escape, but as Billy chased ringside for the leader, Richards caught him with a big clothesline! Trying a suplex, Billy reversed into the jackhammer, then followed with the military press slam! Steven knelt at Ivory's waist for the tag to be made, when 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' made the tag as well! Twenty days remaining until the Grandaddy of Them All, Chyna grabbed Ivory by the hair and hurled her across the ring! A military press slam was tried when Ivory raked the eyes. A facebuster connected, when Ivory distracted the official so Steven could come in to stomp on Chyna! Ivory choked Chyna on the ropes as Billy chased Steven out to the announce table. The confidence of the champ remained through the roof, when ten punches out of the corner went reversed into a powerbomb! Chyna hammered Ivory into the corner, before making way for the handspring elbow across the ring! 'The Ninth Wonder of the World' executed it - but suddenly passed out! Chyna was inexplicably motionless from the collision, and Ivory would make the cover...for three!
The WWF Women's Champion Ivory had just beaten her WrestleMania challenger in mixed tag team competition, but Chyna remained in state of shock on the canvas. 'The Role Model' immediately rolled out to the floor to hug with Right to Censor leader Steven Richards, the RTC lauding a celebratory victory under three weeks away from the Grandaddy of Them All, over her opponent at WrestleMania! But 'the One' Billy Gunn knew what to do, and immediately darted into the ring to Chyna's aid. Motionless and unable to move, Chyna gasped in terror while Billy screamed for a trainer to head out to the ring! 'The Ninth Wonder of the World' was heard audibly saying her arm had become numb, and Billy slammed his fist on the canvas in frustration. Trainers and referees came out to help Chyna slowly move from the ring, and she was able to leave on her own accord with assistance - but was Chyna really 100% to compete for the gold in three weeks? A terrified Chyna was helped by Billy and two referees, the Playboy covergirl having to accept a second loss to Ivory.
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The WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho was spotted walking the halls, geared up and ready to fight William Regal for the WWF European Championship in just mere moments. Y2J was paused by Michael Cole, who hoped to understanding where Jericho's head was at with the title for title match moments away. With a smile on his face as always, Chris assured Michael that he wasn't wasting any time tonight. While he was sure Cole had riveting questions to ask him like if his head was completely focused on Little Willy or not, Y2J assured him he was totally focused on becoming a double champion. That said, he knew exactly that Tori would be watching, and he was sure Raven was too, wherever in the hell he was. Y2J knew what kind of girl Tori was, he knew she had the hots for 'the Sexy Beast'. And as for Willy Regal, he might be large and in charge tonight, but that wouldn't improve his pecker size at all. Tonight he was going to give Jolly Old England what they really wanted in a WWF European Champion, because Y2J was going all the way, and leaving with double gold tonight, baybay! Y2J left for the ring, his match with the WWF Commissioner in winner takes all - next!
A replay aired, taking us to what happened moments ago. In the heat of a tune-up match ahead of the WWF Women's Championship encounter at WrestleMania, Chyna performed a handspring back elbow on Ivory into the corner before collapsing. It granted 'the Role Model' of the Right to Censor to pick up the win, when Billy Gunn alongside trainers and referees were able to safely help 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' from the ring on her own terms. During the commercial break, Chyna was seen in tears in the trainer's office, as boyfriend Billy Gunn sat by her side. Grasping her hand tight, he despondently told Chyna that it would be okay - WrestleMania could wait until she was 100%. The trainer reluctantly stood close by in agreement, but Chyna fought back tears and stood up before storming out of the trainer's office in denial. Billy shook his head, asking the trainer if he was positive Chyna wouldn't be able to compete at WrestleMania. To his own sorrow, the trainer strongly advised against it.
. 5) Chris Jericho (c) def. WWF Commissioner William Regal (c) by disqualification in a Winner Takes All match to retain the WWF Intercontinental Championship; William Regal retains the WWF European Championship (4:32)'The Goodwill Ambassador' had scored the biggest coup since becoming WWF European Champion in December. Not only did he successfully politic his way to becoming WWF Commissioner - for a week at least - but he was able to persuade Shane McMahon into taking a week out from matchmaking. In turn, William Regal had successfully booked himself into this Winner Takes All match against recurring adversary, the WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho. Y2J hit the ring immediately to fight the Englishman, who tried holding his own with some stern elbow strikes. Y2J clotheslined and delivered a big back body drop to the aspiring authority in the World Wrestling Federation, before a springboard dropkick sent him packing. Regal sidestepped a suicide dive to gain control, and immediately turned the pace of the match down to a snail's crawl. With a front face lock applied, Regal butterflied into a double chickenwing before drilling Jericho with an underhook backbreaker! A knee drop turned into a choke, when the referee stepped in. Still, the WWF european Champion had Jericho at his mercy, but Y2J would catch Regal off the middle rope with the Walls of Jericho! Regal made the ropes and bailed out, when Y2J dragged him back in for a bulldog and the Lionsault to connect! The WWF Intercontinental Champion had the match won, when Raven struck with a crowbar shot to the spine!
There was irony in the idea that a Winner Takes All match could end in controversy, as Raven's return had just ensured both Chris Jericho to leave with the WWF Intercontinental Championship tonight, but also for William Regal to leave still the WWF European Champion as well! 'The Creator' had been absent since No Way Out, the former champ angrily beginning to put the boots and clenched fists to the face of Y2J! As the WWF Commissioner wisely decided to back out and stumble away up the rampway, Tori could be seen stepping out onto the rampway with an absent expression on her face. Surveying as her man Raven continued to pummel Y2J with right hands, the former champ screamed in Jericho's face before exposing the middle turnbuckle. Promptly, Raven sent Y2J's face directly into the exposed steel twice, before planting him with the Evenflow DDT! Left standing tall, with main squeeze Tori by his side, Raven brandished the WWF Intercontinental Championship in his hand, believing he was owed a rematch with Chris Jericho!
A video package aired, taking us back to the challenge issued by Triple H last week on SmackDown. Having talked it out with his longtime best friend Shawn Michaels days prior, 'the Game' was not expecting to be stabbed in the back by 'the Heartbreak Kid' one more time. He was definitely not expecting to be left in a puddle of his own blood courtesy of HBK. With Shawn's treacherous betrayal of 'the Cerebral Assassin', Triple H launched into a tirade as he walked into SmackDown last Thursday, officially challenging Shawn to fight him man-to-man at WrestleMania. Giving him until RAW is WAR to respond, all anybody knew was Shawn had confirmed he would be here tonight - but there had been no sign of him anywhere!
One week on from being betrayed by his best friend in the entire business, Triple H made his way down the rampway wasting little time. 'The Game' was incensed after being left bloodied by Shawn Michaels seven nights ago on RAW is WAR, and last Thursday night on SmackDown gave 'the Heartbreak Kid' an ultimatum - face him at WrestleMania, or hide like the coward he had become. 'The Cerebral Assassin' spat water as he climbed into the ring, not dressed for action but with taped fists in the event of another treacherous assault. With a microphone in hand, 'the Cerebral Assassin' commented on how the sands of time were slipping away and how nobody had yet heard from his old friend. It had been one week since Shawn stabbed him in the back, throwing years of friendship down the toilet. 'The Showstopper' had truly shown his true colors in recent months. Hiding secrets was one thing, and screwing his buddies out of the WWF Championship was another. He didn't give a damn about what Shawn had to hide, but when it came to a serious offence like trying to frame him for running down Stone Cold Steve Austin with a car - it was a whole new story! As much as he hated the balf-headed son of a b*tch, Austin gave Shawn what was coming to him back at Armageddon, putting him in that hospital bed. Now, to take his angst out on the friends that helped him back into the World Wrestling Federation during retirement, was brave if nothing else.
Whatever light bulb went off in Shawn Michaels' head, it was now up to Triple H to snap him out of it. 'The Game' mentioned it being four days since he challenged him to a fight on the Grandest Stage of Them All. Shawn used to be Mr. WrestleMania, he used to take death-defying leaps of faith in Ladder matches, and go the distance in 60-minute Ironman matches. It was because of all of that why Shawn was 'the Showstopper' and 'the Main Event', and Hunter himself respected him for it. But that was in the past, and all Shawn has proven himself to be was a washout, bitter, jealous assh*le! Now, not even his best friend respected him, and neither did anybody else for what Shawn Michaels had become. 'The Game' seemed to provoke Shawn from hiding, noting how time was running out, the show was almost over, and that must have meant HBK had gone soft...when Shawn Michaels applauded his grandiose words of malice. Appearing on the TitanTron and clapping, 'the Heartbreak Kid' bragged about how he was never going to ignore Hunter - because he and the rest of the WWF knew if they did, all Triple H would do was cry, b*tch and moan some more! Believing an explanation was owed, Shawn never once promised to appear live on RAW is WAR - that he was better off never coming to Hollywood ever again! As a semi-retired man, Shawn was happy and comfortable hanging out at home in San Antonio, Texas.
Analyzing 'the Game's comments word for word, Shawn found his former best friend's words fascinating to him, knowing exactly the kind of egotistical, hot-headed, overrated leach Triple H could be. He knew how hot he would be after last week, but as far as himself no longer being 'the Showstopper' he once was - that was one bold claim. Shawn still had what it took, and now that he was done with Triple H puckering up to kiss his ass and ride his coat tails - maybe it was time to prove it once again. Since retirement, Shawn had been gifted with complete freedom to do whatever the hell he wanted, and told Hunter that he couldn't hunt what he couldn't kill. With an insincere formal dialogue, Shawn accepted Triple H's challenge for WrestleMania. But it wasn't because Triple H wanted nothing more than to kick his ass. It was to knock Triple H down a peg or two, because although 'the Cerebral Assassin' was a former three-time WWF Champion and one of the toughest men to ever grace the squared circle with his presence - he was never, and never would be as good as the man Shawn Michaels was! Triple H told Shawn that he would see him at WrestleMania, but rest assured he vowed to make it Shawn's real retirement match. After everything they had been through together - from the Kliq, to D-Generation X, to Triple H's divorce, and Shawn Michaels' return to the ring - it would all end at WrestleMania. When it's just the two of them in that ring, 'the Game' planned to kick Shawn's ass and show exactly what made him that damn good! Shawn laughed, telling Hunter to listen to himself - he wasn't that damn good at anything. At WrestleMania, Hunter will once again be left to stare up at the lights of Reliant Astrodome after suffering some Sweet Chin Music. Michaels waved mockingly, telling Hunter he'd see him in three weeks.
A replay aired reviewing the distant confrontation had between Triple H and Shawn Michaels. The match was on for WrestleMania, the two founders of D-Generation X agreeing to meet in twenty days on the Grandest Stage of Them All to bury their friendship once and for all. Shawn had refused to show up live and remained home on San Antonio, Texas - but once April 1 came around, Houston would be the home for a battle of epic proportions.
Back live, WWF Commissioner William Regal sat breathless in his office chair. Holding the WWF European Championship tightly, the towel-draped 'Goodwill Ambassador' could not believe the audacity of that hoodlum, Raven. Muttering to himself what to do about the state of the World Wrestling Federation, his peace was broken by Bradshaw barging into the room with Jacqueline! Bradshaw hollered about the Radicalz sticking their noses where it didn't belong earlier tonight, and how sick and tired he was of Eddie Guerrero. Demanding to deal with 'Latino Heat' once and for all, Regal reasoned that he couldn't just barge into his office this way! The Englishman tried reasoning about respect, honor and discipline being morals the WWF was once built on - but no more. The Texan argued to hell with that, slamming his fists on the table and reminding him that he was the Commissioner now, and Bradshaw wanted action. William warned Bradshaw with a cautioning, that if he didn't want to fall in line like a civilized, proud WWF Superstar should be - then to count his bloody blessings! Chuckling to himself, Bradshaw asked if that was right. Regal concurred. Changing his tone, Bradshaw congratulated Regal on the promotion - before batting the teapot on the desk over, spilling hot water all over the Commissioner's legs! William screamed having been scorned, left alone to deal with reddened thighs!
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In the arena, Paul Heyman could not respect Bradshaw's decision to scold the new, prideful WWF Commissioner William Regal the way he just did! Jim Ross discussed 'the Goodwill Ambassador's tough night of initiation as authority of the week, before offering an update on the condition of WWF CEO Linda McMahon, whom he could only imagine was mortified to hear about a rumored affair between Trish Stratus and Vince McMahon, which was later found to be untrue. Heyman didn't buy the story, claiming to know the type of man Vince McMahon was: and where had the Chairman been for the past two weeks? J.R. assured Paul he was at home caring for Linda, and the WWF Owner had to be seething at Shane McMahon himself for everything he'd done! J.R. let it be known that Linda was home resting after the manhandling from Chris Benoit two weeks ago, but under a lot of medication after her panic-induced coma. Paul wished Linda well, but uttered it would not shock him in the slightest if Vince had been having one night stands around Linda for all of this time. Jim ignored Paul, assuring us neither Shane or Stephanie McMahon were here tonight either, but were sure to be watching.
The inferno blasted across the stage, once again bringing out to the ring Kane! 'The Big Red Machine' arguably cost his half-brother the Undertaker his chance of dethroning Rhyno to become WWF Hardcore Champion earlier tonight, but as far as the seven-foot monster was concerned, it wasn't over until Kane said it was over! Climbing into the ring, Kane snatched the microphone from ring announcer Lilian Garcia and remarked that this had nothing to do with anybody but himself and 'the Man-Beast'. Kane demanded Rhyno come and face him man to machine right here and right now! Kane waited and paced back and forth in the ring, repeatedly screaming for Rhyno to come out and face him one-on-one. What Kane did not realize however, was Rhyno sneaking up behind him. Having come through the crowd, Rhyno stalked Kane and executed the Gore! Both members of the Brothers of Destruction had felt the Gore tonight, but once the WWF Hardcore Champion stalked Kane for a second, Kane sat up! Big booting Rhyno as he rushed for a second Gore, Kane grabbed Rhyno by the throat, only to receive a low blow kick! Rhyno left the ring and secured a steel chair, but as Kane returned to his feet and waited for 'the Man-Beast' to return, down the rampway darted a furious Undertaker! Bringing the fight to Rhyno, 'the American Badass' sent Rhyno packing into the ring, where Kane would plant him with a thunderous Chokeslam! The Undertaker rolled into the ring, confronting Kane with his own two eyes. Brothers or not, a shouting match ensued about who got their hands on Rhyno, as the WWF Hardcore Champion wisely rolled out to the floor. Ultimately, Kane rolled over the top rope and left Undertaker alone in the ring. Forever on different pages, the Brothers of Destruction were allowing Rhyno to come between them!
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Kurt Angle left his dressing room, with moments to wait until his main event encounter with Stone Cold Steve Austin. Having never met 'the Texas Rattlesnake' one-on-one, their stars aligned last Thursday night on SmackDown following a mis-swing of a steel chair shot from 'the Megastar'. Kurt had to still be reeling after the challenge made by the returning Hulk Hogan earlier tonight, as he walked the halls only to come face to face with the man himself. Hulk Hogan stood in front of a perplexed Olympic Gold Medalist, who questioned whether the Hulkster was stalking him now! Hulk assured Angle he wasn't interested, but it wouldn't be wise for him to not be studying his every move. 'The Icon' wished Kurt luck tonight, and offered advice not to let Hogan cloud his judgment against a mean dude like Stone Cold! Angle squared up to Hulk and told him he wasn't even thinking about Hulk. All he was thinking about was what it would feel like to beat Austin tonight, and then leave WrestleMania having beaten the WWF Legend! Angle stomped away, surely thinking about Hulk, who smirked and shook his head.
Stone Cold Steve Austin left his locker room, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' similarly having to be reeling after the meeting he had with WWF Champion The Rock, merely weeks away from WrestleMania. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' was geared up and ready to go for this first-time meeting against Kurt Angle - up next!
Angle brashly talked trash to 'the Rattlesnake', following with a back suplex. 'The Megastar' desperately needed a victory to prove he meant business rolling into WrestleMania, but Austin was able to combat a front facelock applied. Angle immediately went for the Ankle Lock, but Austin was able to kick him off. Into the corner, Angle caught him with a belly-to-belly suplex before lowering the straps. Showing the heart of a truly dedicated competitor, Angle sized Austin up for the Angle Slam, but Austin was able to slip out before surprising Kurt with a German suplex of his own! Austin now had Angle where he wanted him, 'the Olympic Hero' groggily rising to receive a Stunner attempt caught by the Ankle Lock applied once again! Angle had the hold locked in tight, but Austin rolled and rolled before kicking Angle off once again! Austin dropped Angle with the Stone Cold Stunner, but was clearly feeling the effects of the Ankle Lock - when Chris Benoit once again showed up! 'The Rabid Wolverine' climbed to the top rope and executing the Diving Headbutt...but he dropped it on Kurt Angle!
'The Rabid Wolverine' had been eerily silent all night long, but now had shockingly cost Stone Cold Steve Austin the match! Having dropped the Diving Headbutt on Kurt Angle, Chris Benoit was choosing to blame 'the Megastar' for not leaving SmackDown as WWF Champion - and he soon locked in the Crossface on 'the American Hero!' Angle was tapping in the brutal submission, when out came The Rock!
The WWF Champion hit the ring and immediately duked it out with 'the Wolverine', who wisely slid out to the floor with a smile on his face. Rock fiercely challenged Benoit to Just Bring It, as Stone Cold came around and started rising to his feet. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' tried making sense of the finishing result, but as Stone Cold Steve Austin turned around he was met with Rock stalking him for a Rock Bottom! It stunned Austin, but Rock waited patiently with a grin on his face. Austin talked trash to Rock, much like Rock did to Austin. You could cut the tension with a knife - it was only a matter of time before 'the People's Champ' would strike in the build-up for WrestleMania! |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 14, 2021 8:14:55 GMT -5
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Post by DTP. on Mar 15, 2021 15:15:31 GMT -5
 SmackDown! - March 15, 2001
Arrowhead Pond in Anaheim, California
Broadcast on UPN
Taped on March 13, 2001
A video package aired, taking us back to RAW is WAR this past Monday night. Live from Los Angeles, a disgruntled former WWF Champion Kurt Angle could not believe his eyes when standing face to face with 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan. After a war of words, the challenge was issued for a match at WrestleMania - 'the American Hero' battling 'the Real American'. Angle would be in a foul mood all night long, gearing up for his first-time encounter with Stone Cold Steve Austin. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' was full speed ahead for the main event of WrestleMania, and following an intense confrontation in the middle of the ring with the WWF Champion The Rock, was all business in fighting off 'the Megastar'. It was a hard-fought first time encounter between Angle and 'the Rattlesnake', but it would go short-lived, as Chris Benoit would show up to drop the Diving Headbutt...getting Angle disqualified! Bitter about having his WWF Championship opportunity blown by Angle's interference on SmackDown four days prior, Benoit dished up punishment for Austin, when 'the Great One' came to his WrestleMania opponent's aid! Disposing of Benoit, Rock and Austin engaged in a long staredown - less than three weeks before the Grandaddy of Them All.
The opening video package aired, taking us inside the Arrowhead Pond for SmackDown! With under three weeks until WrestleMania, the pyrotechnics fired up the people of Anaheim, California - the site of last year's Showcase of the Immortals. Michael Cole and Tazz welcomed us to the show, on a night where the WWF Hardcore Championship would be at stake in a huge Triple Threat match. The Rhyno would face his toughest challenge to date, against both members of the Brothers of Destruction, the Undertaker and Kane!1) Edge and Christian (c) def. The Hardy Boyz (w/Lita) & The Dudley Boyz (w/Spike Dudley) to retain the WWF Tag Team Championships (5:31)
The underhanded tactics of Edge and Christian were able to get one over on former champions the Dudley Boyz in their No Way Out rematch last Monday on RAW is WAR, but the dastardly Canadians were thwarted in their efforts to put D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley out for good after the match, by none other than the Hardy Boyz. Jeff and Matt Hardy also wanted the gold, and thus close to a year separated from their Triangle Ladder match in the same building at WrestleMania 2000, the six men were to do battle tonight in a three-way WWF Tag Team Championship match. The Dudleys wasted no time engaging with Edge and Christian, not even waiting for Team Xtreme's arrival. Finally they joined the fray, with the three teams battling it out. The challengers targeted the champions, with a double flapjack from the Dudleys dropping Edge and the Hardys delivering Poetry in Motion for Christian. Edge and Christian dropped out to the floor, when the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz engaged in a staredown. It broke down into a fight between families, as Jeff Hardy managed to clear D-Von from the ring. Matt executed a gutwrench suplex on Bubba Ray, while Jeff vaulted off the barricade with a crossbody on both D-Von and Christian at ringside! Meanwhile inside, Edge was able to come in with the Edge-o-matic on Matt, which soon allowed the WWF Tag Team Champions to work over on Matt Hardy.
Able to form an unlikely alliance with the Dudley Boyz, Matt's efforts to fight back was nulled by Bubba and Edge executing a double suplex on the elder Hardy. It would not last long however, as Spike Dudley and Lita visibly got into a verbal exchange at ringside. Edge tried to step in with a spear, but Lita sidestepped it and Spike would up receiving the brunt of it! Inside Matt took Christian out with a Side Effect, making the tag to Jeff! Jeff came off the top with a missile dropkcik for a fresh Bubba Ray, before executing a running dropkick for Christian. Jeff soon found himself caught with a Bubba Bomb attmept, when Matt came in for the neckbreaker. The Hardys stripped off their shirts to the screams of women, when D-Von cut Matt off with a charging elbow strike. Jeff flew through the air with the Whisper in the Wind to cut him off, as Matt fought off Bubba with the Twist of Fate! Jeff went for the Swanton Bomb, but Christian was able to crotch him. Matt made the save to be planted with an Unprettier, but Bubba was there to break up the fall. Lita got involved in the action with the diving hurricanrana for Bubba, when Spike got a similar idea - a diving foot stomp off the top for Lita's boyfriend Matt! Jeff intercepted, sending Spike to the floor when Edge backdoored to victory with a roll-up gripping the tights!
The WWF Tag Team Championships would not be changing hands tonight in Anaheim, as Edge and Christian met with a hug in the ring. The Canadians had avoided losing the gold again tonight with their cheap tactics, little did they know that the Dudley Boyz were right behind them! Bubba Ray would grab Edge by the hair, sending him head-first into Christian! A body slam followed, with D-Von going up top and giving Edge the Wazzup! Bubba instructed D-von to get the tables, but as he got wood, Jeff Hardy would join to help out! Inside Edge tried to battle Bubba Ray as Matt Hardy came in. Outnumbered by the failed challengers, the Hardys bared witness to the Dudleys giving Edge a 3D through the table!
At ringside Christian attempted to weasel away, but it was Spike Dudley who would grab Christian by the hair - tossing him inside the ring! Spike pulled out another table, as Jeff and Bubba Ray continued to beat on the younger champ. Matt and D-Von constructed the table as Bubba would lay Christian on top of it - Jeff Hardy coming off the top rope with the Swanton Bomb! Edge and Christian may have gotten away by the skin of their teeth, but they still got wood at the hands of Jeff, Matt, Bubba and D-Von tonight. The two teams surveyed one another, everybody wanting the WWF Tag Team Championship!
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Triple H was backstage walking the halls of the Arrowhead Pond, when met with some familiar faces in X-Factor. X-Pac smirked at the former friend he'd betrayed back at the Survivor Series, leading Lance Storm and Justin Credible toward him. Mocking 'the Game' for the pity party he was throwing, X-Pac blamed the once-D-Generation X leader for losing everything, but also losing his grip on reality. Triple H stood with a poker face as X-Pac commented on how they had a good thing going once, but he outgrew DX, and he was sick of being held down by 'the Cerebral Assassin'. It was no big surprise that Shawn Michaels was finally seeing the light, too, and predicted 'the Heartbreak Kid' humiliating him once again at WrestleMania. Hunter laughed, asking him if he was done. Wondering what the story was with his little buddies behind him, Triple H wasn't looking for a reality check - if anything, X-Pac needed help with that one. He hadn't forgotten the past, and truthfully he was glad for X-Pac - but he'll regret doing anything to him in the first place. Triple H said he was in a foul mood, and tonight, X-Pac would find that out the hard way when they meet in the ring. Blowing it off arrogantly, X-Pac, Credible and Storm dispersed making light of the altercation.
A video package aired, taking us back to January 23, 1984. The scene was Madison Square Garden, as the Iron Sheik prepared to put his WWF Championship at stake against the newcomer to the World Wrestling Federation, Hulk Hogan. Hulkamania was born following a big boot and a leg drop, ushering in a new era for the WWF. Contrasting with this came the first appearance of Kurt Angle. The birth of 'the Megastar' came at Survivor Series 1999, making short work of Shawn Stasiak. Though despite the impressive victory in his debut, the Olympic Gold Medalist received no love from the fans in Detroit, Michigan.
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The capacity crowd in Anaheim, California came to life as the WWF Champion graced the stage unexpectedly. The Rock would come marching out to the ring, three days following a choice interaction with Stone Cold Steve Austin. Having come to 'the Texas Rattlesnake's aid from Chris Benoit on RAW is WAR, 'the People's Champ' took to the microphone and declared that finally he had come back to Beverly Hills. Rock reminisced about Anaheim and Hollywood, taking us back to WrestleMania 2000. After main eventing and electrifying millions in the main event, flash forward one year, and the Rock was still making noise. He's in Hollywood, California, he's shooting movies, filming Saturday Night Live. Without a shadow of a doubt, the Rock was the hottest WWF Superstar to arrive in Tinsel Town, but that did not distract him from the biggest challenge ahead in less than three weeks. You could smell it in the air and you could feel the electricity, as WrestleMania was right around the corner. But unlike last year, losing out on the WWF Championship, the Rock was walking into the Reliant Astrodome on April 1 the champ...and he sure as hell would leave Houston, Texas as the champ. Segueing to discuss his challenger, Rock echoed the thoughts expressed to Stone Cold Steve Austin last Monday night on RAW is WAR. How despite the mutual respect shared between them, they would never ever be on the same page ever. Despite the admiration, it was no mistake they were both walking in as the biggest WWF Superstars of all time - but there could be only one to leave WrestleMania as WWF Champion.
Chris Benoit soon came marching out to the rampway, interrupting the WWF Champion's speech. Despite the beating received from The Rock last week, 'the Rabid Wolverine' smirked in opposition. Brashly, Benoit spoke of how much he had missed playing with him. It brought back fun memories, of the times he'd have Rock begging for mercy locked in the Crossface, and bashing his skull open with a steel chair. They had so much fun, Benoit was feeling nostalgic. Rock would cut him off before getting in another word, mimicking Benoit's fetishism for putting people through pain. Benoit could say as much as he wanted, brag how he was the best technical wrestler in the world, cripple as many McMahons and as many old women as he pleased - but it didn't matter. It didn't matter what Benoit had to say, because he knew he had Benoit's number much like he'd proven time and time before. Laughing in response, the Canadian congratulated the WWF Champion on his little victory last week, saying it wasn't for Kurt Angle, WrestleMania would be looking a whole lot different. As far as Chris was concerned, they weren't done just yet: he wanted the WWF Championship and wasn't leaving until he got what was owed to him - just the two of them, all by themselves! Before the Rock had a chance to accept the invitation, the WWF Commissioner made his way out to the rampway!
Dressed to the nines in his three piece suit, the WWF European Champion William Regal was in high spirits after hearing a brilliant idea from 'the Rabid Wolverine'. He was showing the makings of an all-time great, and was no doubt going to make a big splash as WWF Champion. With that said, it was the Englishman's obligation to remind everybody of who the lawmaker in charge around here truly was. On one hand, Rock's match at WrestleMania was officially set in stone, without a doubt. On the other hand, he knew just how badly Chris Benoit wanted his shot at the WWF Championship, after believing himself to be cheated out of it last week. William wished to remind the people of his moral compass as the new WWF Commissioner: to restore the principles of honor, decency and respect to the World Wrestling Federation's soiled mantra, and he would go to any length to do so. Rock finally had enough of Regal's well-spoken spiel, mimicking Regal soiling himself over being put in charge by Shane McMahon. Rock asked Regal what his new position was called again, cutting him off saying it didn't matter! Rock declared despite Regal's strict ruling, he was the WWF Champion - and he was willing to defend the title tonight against Chris Benoit! Benoit stared 'the Great One' down from afar, while Regal intervened. Angry at being insulted by the champ, Regal proposed they make things even more interesting: not only would the title be on the line tonight - it would be in Benoit's playground: a Submission match! Regal scowled in leaving, while Rock and Benoit locked eyes even still. Benoit was pleased, as Rock's journey to WrestleMania now featured a new hurdle in his way!
A video package aired, taking us back to last Monday night on RAW is WAR. Despite the concerns of her boyfriend 'the One' Billy Gunn, Chyna was incensed on getting her hands on WrestleMania opponent Ivory in mixed tag team action, as the WWF Women's Champion teamed with Right to Censor associate Steven Richards. 'The Ninth Wonder of the World' looked to make short work of the champion, when a freak accident took place as Chyna hit a handspring elbow in the corner, only to collapse! Ivory scored a pinfall victory over the Playboy covergirl, while Chyna was left immobilized. The after-effects of Chyna's neck injury caused by the RTC two months ago remained, and had potential to jeopardize her fairytale ending of a WrestleMania!
In the arena, a despondent Billy Gunn came walking down to the ring. Disheartened by his girlfriend Chyna's tragic accident in the ring on RAW is WAR, 'the One' took to the microphone to talk about how it didn't make sense. He liked to believe in a God, but whatever happened to 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' on Monday, so close to the biggest match of her life at WrestleMania, just didn't make sense. With that said, Billy wanted to take out his frustrations and finish things with the Right to Censor, for everything they'd done! Billy called out Steven Richards for a singles match right here and now, when the Right to Censor made their way down the rampway.
Taking their time, Steven Richards and the WWF Women's Champion Ivory led the pack of the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry behind them as Steven empaphized with Billy Gunn's qualms. Apologizing insincerely, he wished that he could let Billy's dreams come true. But as it happens, Chyna did an irresponsible thing throwing herself into the match on Monday night. By coming close to a fearless champion like Ivory, Chyna knew what she was getting herself in for, and if 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' had any sense - she'd let WrestleMania go. Clearly she is in no state to compete at all anymore! Ivory took to the microphone as a furious Billy challenged him. 'The Role Model' shamed Billy for putting Chyna in a precarious position, asking him what kind of boyfriend he really was! Better yet, what kind of man was Billy Gunn to let his girlfriend Chyna surpass him in every way. Billy caresses his own buttocks, points at his own groin, and is now supportive of Chyna's aspiring career in pornography? Ivory reminded Billy she believed that America used to be about having morals. Finally Billy answered telling the "b*tch" to shut her mouth, once again telling Steven to get into the ring. Instead, the angry 'Secret Weapon' spoke up. Mark Henry told Billy not to say anything like that to a fine, upstanding woman like Ivory! Nobody talked to her like that, and for that Billy was about to feel the wrath of 'the World's Strongest Man!'
2) Mark Henry (w/The Right to Censor) def. Billy Gunn (3:18)
The Right to Censor were highly pleased with the unfortunate freak accident suffered to Chyna in the mixed tag team match on RAW is WAR. With the WWF Women's Championship defence at WrestleMania clearly in limbo, Mark Henry hit the ring livid by Billy Gunn's insulting remarks made to Ivory moments prior. An impromptu match saw Billy swing out of the gate against the 400-pounder, but a dropkick was only enough to stun the big man. Looking for an impossible military press slam, Mark fell directly on top of Billy for a close near fall. Billy stayed on offence putting the boots to 'the Secret Weapon' in the corner, when the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan allowed the distraction for Mark to clothesline him hard. A corner splash made way for Mark to choke Billy with his boot in the corner, allowing for Steven Richards to get in some shots behind the referee's back. A bear hug was applied, Henry hoping to squeeze the life out of Billy only for Gunn to scrap out with everything he had. Another dropkick stunned Henry, followed by a miraculous body slam! Gunn went to the top rope and executed a second rope Fame Asser, but Ivory was on the apron to distract the referee. Steven tried jumping Billy from behind, only to walk into the One and Only predicament! Billy was about to do it, but a clothesline cut his chances short! Two consecutive big splashes was enough, giving Mark the win!
The Right to Censor had stuck up for the WWF Women's Champion Ivory, who now proudly demanded the RTC continue their beatdown of 'the One' Billy Gunn! Suffering two big splashes from 'the Secret Weapon' Mark Henry, the Goodfather and Buchanan joined him in the ring to put the boots to Billy further. Holding him up for an obnoxious slap from 'the Role Model' herself, the RTC looked ready to finish Billy off when Kaientai hit the ring! Unexpectedly, Taka Michinoku and Funaki hit the ring and sent dropkicks to the Goodfather and Buchanan before trying to help out Billy. The two shared a victorious high-five, before turning around to receive a massive double clothesline from 'the World's Strongest Man!' Despite the save attempt made, the RTC left dominantly, as led by Ivory and Steven Richards.
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Backstage Jonathan Coachman nervously approached the Undertaker, who was busy preparing for the WWF Hardcore Championship Triple Threat match to come. The Coach wanted to know what was going on with the Brothers of Destruction, with both half-brothers wanting Rhyno's title. Undertaker sighed and confessed he knew where Kane was coming from. Everybody was chasing the Rhyno. He understood it, but he's going into tonight's match taking no prisoners. Whether 'the Big Red Machine' wanted to play or not, he wasn't thinking about the future. He was thinking about becoming WWF Hardcore Champion.
A video package aired, looking back at Kurt Angle winning his first WWF Championship in the upset of the year last July at Fully Loaded. With help from Shane McMahon, Edge, Christian and Stephanie McMahon, 'the Megastar' would defeat The Rock only to lose it back to him the following night on RAW is WAR. Despite this, the Olympic Gold Medalist came back to become a two-time WWF Champion at SummerSlam, and would reign supreme through the likes of Rock, Triple H, Chris Jericho and the Undertaker as the leader of the Coalition. Meanwhile, Hulk Hogan won WWF Championship after WWF Championship throughout his illustrious reign over the World Wrestling Federation. Selling out WrestleManias, Pontiac Silverdome and Toronto Sky Dome, the Hulkster embodied the United States of America and even broadened his scope and starred in multiple hit movies.
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Bradshaw and Jacqueline were in the APA's Office laughing and hanging out, when in walked WWF Commissioner William Regal. The Texan casually mentioned if 'the Goodwill Ambassador' was coming in to knock, but the Englishman was in no laughing mood. The WWF European Champion reminded Bradshaw about his antics on RAW is WAR, storming into his office and scolding him with the Commissioner's own tea was a terrible idea. Regal told it bloody atrocious and his legs are still red raw as a result. Despite that, Regal was choosing to take the moral highground. He'd taken serious consideration to Bradshaw wanting Eddie Guerrero one-on-one tonight, which is why the match was his. Bradshaw claimed despite the stick up his British butt, Regal might not be a bad Commissioner after all. William thanked him for the kind words, before saying that Bradshaw would face 'Latino Heat'...as well as Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko tonight, in a handicap match! Regal left as Bradshaw threw his arms in the air - his own lesson to be learned courtesy of the new lawmaker!
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In the arena, Raven made his way out to the stage as accompanied by his main squeeze, Tori. Brandishing the WWF Intercontinental Championship belonging to Chris Jericho, 'the Creator' waltzed down to the ring looking as dishevelled as ever. He stole the title from Y2J after making his return on RAW is WAR, perhaps as a message after previously not being seen since No Way Out. The former champ slung the title belt into the ring over the top rope, before taking a steel chair and setting it up inside the ring. Taking a seat, with Tori straddled over his knee, he simply started laughing into the microphone at the actions committed. Raven could not help it, and the Anaheim crowd booed him before finally finding the words to explain what he did on Monday. He was laughing at the idea that he would ever leave Y2J be. Their stars crossed paths for a reason, he was certain of it. It was written there from their first encounter, and if Chris Jericho had the audacity to believe that Raven was simply going to let him beat at No Way Out - he's even more naive than he thought! Tori shook her head in Raven's lap as he spoke about how Y2J was dumb to think he would let him deride him of everything he'd worked so hard for. No Way Out was a fluke, a flash in the pan. This problem didn't just go as far as the WWF Intercontinental Championship belt laying on the floor in front of him, it went deeper than that.
Raven spoke about how it was about his self-respect deprived time and time again. The whole world was out to get him, and Chris Jericho embodied everything about this society that he despised! It was an aesthetically admired business, and Y2J might be handsome and smart, but he was as much a smartass as he was a horse's ass. On top of that Y2J was popular. Deluded in his spiel, Raven talked about guys like Chris Jericho living life easy, something he and his girl Tori depises. While Y2J sails through life as happy-and-go-lucky as they come, for Raven and Tori - they are the social outcasts nobody wants any part of! While Raven may have lost the match at No Way Out, Y2J had changed the game they are playing. He knew he had to get even with the cocky Canadian, in more ways than that we saw on RAW is WAR. The World Wrestling Federation was inevitably his for the taking, and he would be the king looking over his own empire of dirt. Raven would survey the crowd at his feet, and reminisce about how he managed to win their attention by force...and this plan would all start come WrestleMania. Issuing the challenge to Chris Jericho to come after "his" title one more time, this time it would be in his own asylum. The Astrodome would be his Asylum, a Street Fight to a finish. Falls Count Anywhere, no disqualifications and no count-outs: just the two of them. However Raven didn't expect Y2J to answer, because he was too cowardly.
On the contrary, the lights went out on Raven and Tori in the ring, as the countdown of Y2J began! The pyrotechnics erupted across the stage, yet there was still no Chris Jericho to be seen! Raven and Tori were seen laughing from the ring as the lights came on, but as the former champion got up and defensively clung to his steel chair, Chris Jericho was right behind him! Y2J caught Raven by surprise hammering him with a series of right hands and chops! The WWF Intercontinental Champion was coming for revenge from Monday night, a bandaid on his forehead remaining from the beating sustained from Raven! 'The Creator' wisely slipped out of the ring with a smirk on his face, when Tori dared to jump Jericho from behind. Snapmared overhead, Y2J grabbed the vixen by the hair. As Raven watched hesitantly from the floor, Jericho took Tori off her feet and locked in the Walls of Jericho! The title belt belonging to Y2J sat nearby, as referees hit the ring under instruction from Raven - to break his main squeeze from the vengeful Canadian's Walls! Finally Jericho released the hold, but had his eyes set sternly on Raven on the rampway. This bad blood continued to boil, as the challenge for an Astrodome Asylum Street Fight at WrestleMania appeared accepted!
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Kane was walking the halls backstage in intimidating fashion, when Kevin Kelly approached 'the Big Red Machine' with caution. Kevin wanted to ask the monster about the Triple Threat match for the WWF Hardcore Championship coming up, and where he stood with his half-brother the Undertaker. Kane refused to even acknowledge 'the American Badass', but stated that tonight was every man for himself, but if there's one man in that match he's coming for: it's Rhyno. There was no wrecking ball bigger or as destructive as 'the Big Red Machine', and tonight the WWF Hardcore Championship will be his. Kane set off the ring - the Triple Threat match for the title coming up next!
Kurt Angle was seen arriving at the Arrowhead Pond late this evening, speaking on the phone with Stephanie McMahon. The Olympic Gold Medalist assured 'the Billion Dollar Princess' that she didn't need to worry about him, that he was going to get back to where he once was before as WWF Champion by the end of the night. Suddenly 'the Megastar's face dropped as standing by steel shutters stood Stone Cold Steve Austin. The man Angle went to battle with on RAW is WAR didn't look happy, as Angle awkwardly hung up on his girlfriend. Kurt defensively reasoned with Austin, that he had no part of Chris Benoit's scheme and the plan was dead. Simply, Austin glared at Angle and told him he wasn't a jackass, he knew exactly what happened on Monday night. It looked like Kurt had his own problems with a man called Hulk Hogan, but rest assured once that was all over and done with, Angle's little title hunt would continue - only he'll be WWF Champion. Austin warned Angle that he would not hesitate to whoop his sorry ass and walk it dry like he did on Monday, before stomping away.
Taking deep breaths, a Kurt Angle on edge tried shaking the lecture off of his back before proceeding through the backstage area. Only then, he encountered Chris Benoit blocking his path. Benoit smirked, asking his former Coalition ally if he had heard the news. This time Kurt stared Chris in the eyes, telling him he didn't even want to think about him for what he caused on Monday night. 'The Megastar' had the 2001 Royal Rumble winner beat, and he didn't need 'the Rabid Wolverine's help. Angle reminded Benoit he was an Olympian, a former two-time WWF Champion and the man that will beat Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania. Now fired up, Angle laid out the challenge to Benoit for tonight! Instead, Chris snickered sadistically. He guessed Kurt hadn't heard the news. Benoit informed Kurt of his WWF Championship Submission match tonight with the Rock, and told him he had bigger plans - and they involved walking into WrestleMania as WWF Champion. Benoit walked away laughing, leaving Angle seething.
. 3) Rhyno (c) vs The Undertaker vs Kane in a Triple Threat match for the WWF Hardcore Championship (6:24)Since arriving at the Royal Rumble in January, 'the Man-Beast' Rhyno had the entire World Wrestling Federation locker room chasing him. The former ECW extremist won the WWF Hardcore Championship after double-crossing the Big Show at No Way Out, making an enemy out of 'the Big Red Machine' Kane. Though it wasn't only Kane who had his sights set on Rhyno, as his half-brother the Undertaker also had the title on his mind. The dissension in the Brothers of Destruction was so topical that upon meeting each other in the ring, some trash talk between Kane and Undertaker led to fists being thrown, immediately reaching the ringside area. Rhyno made his delayed arrival with a stop sign in hand, blasting both with the weapon. After some initial offence against the towering challengers however, Rhyno would miss the Gore and collide head-first with the steel steps! The brothers battled once more, with a suplex blocked by Kane resulting in Undertaker receiving the hard floor in return! Kane lumbered to the timekeeper's desk and confiscated his ring bell, only to be surprised by a trio of chair shots from 'the Deadman!' Kane was sent sailing into the ring post, and from there back inside the ring where Undertaker continued to pound on the seven-foot monster. Attempting Old School, Kane was able to use his impressive power to hoist Undertaker on his shoulder for a fireman's slam, before setting up for the Chokeslam!
Kane grabbed Undertaker by the throat, when Rhyno returned with a cinder block across the back of the monster's head! Rhyno covered, but Kane was able to kick out. Back from the commercial break, Rhyno and the Undertaker were now duelling it out, as 'the Big Red Machine' laid unconscious on the ringside floor. Hoping to fend off 'the American Badass's heavy rights and lefts, Rhyno used a trash can to batter Undertaker in the corner. A charging shot with it led to Undertaker big booting the can into 'the Man-Beast's face, and a tilt-a-whirl slam saw 'the Deadman' score a near fall. Kane sat up at ringside and rejoined the chase, the Brothers of Destruction reuniting to take turns with shots for Rhyno. Kane would grab Rhyno by the throat for a Chokeslam, when Undertaker joined in with his palm. A double Chokeslam put the champ through the trash can, but as both shuffled to claim victory, the brothers would duel it out once more!
Kane came off the top rope with a flying clothesline, but as Kane set up for a Tombstone Piledriver on 'the Deadman', the Big Show came stomping down the rampway! Armed with two steel chairs, Undertaker took Kane out with a flying clothesline, only to be nailed in the head with a chair shot! 'The Giant' was back, in a foul mood, as he used the second steel chair to stun Kane! The seven-foot monster remained unmoved, when the Big Show delivered a Chokeslam of his own to take down 'the Big Red Machine!' Rhyno was ready and waiting however, the WWF Hardcore Champion looking for the Gore only to collide with the Undertaker instead! The quick-moving 'Giant' clotheslined Rhyno over the top rope, before decisively putting Kane away with the Final Cut. The Big Show had won the WWF Hardcore Championship!
'The Giant' had made an impact in his first appearance since being driven through the announce table courtesy of the Undertaker, successful in recapturing the WWF Hardcore Championship with help from the 24/7 rule and two steel chairs! Show roared as he paraded the title high, standing over the fallen bodies of the Undertaker and Kane. Rhyno was seen watching with anger from ringside, but 'the Man-Beast' reentering the ring was too late as Show walked up the rampway in dominance. There was unfinished business to take care of, with 'the Giant' once again champion.
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Trish Stratus was backstage talking to somebody on the phone with a smile on her face. Suddenly she was confronted by an old client, Albert. A big grin on 'the Freight Train's face, Albert appeared to put the moves on Trish, asking her if there was any fire to that Vince McMahon rumor. His former business strategist as part of T&A looked unimpressed, as Albert called her "baby" and asked if they could ever be reunited. Stratus gawked at the thought, reminding him of when he and Test fired her. Trish said she wouldn't be caught dead with them. His smile turned to a frown, when Trish asked how it felt knowing he'd never be as attractive as Test. Appalled, Albert told Trish that she was out of her mind. Test was scum, and he proved that by dropping the ball. Whereas he was a six-foot-six stud muffin! There was a reason they called him 'Big Baldo'. Giggling to herself, Trish told Albert he should take it up with Test himself. It had been a rough few weeks without her, but if they beat Too Cool tonight - maybe there was a chance they'd be able to hook up once again. She stroked Albert's chest in leaving: she'd be watching T&A compete tonight! Albert's eyebrows were raised.
WWF Commissioner William Regal was sat in his office writing up another declaration for the World Wrestling Federation locker room to adhere to, when in walked Kurt Angle. Baffled by the WWF European Champion's decision-making as lawmaker, 'the Megastar' couldn't understand how Chris Benoit could deserve a shot at The Rock's WWF Championship tonight. Regal rationalized that the Olympic Gold Medalist, all due respect, had had chance to recapture the title time and time again. Not to mention, he's got Hulk Hogan to worry about now. Angle was bitter about 'the Real American' showing up on RAW is WAR to begin with. He's a distraction, and no big deal! Everybody saw how old he looked, confidently claiming he'd put the Hulkster away in short order at WrestleMania. Regal was ill-convinced, when Angle wondered whatever happened to them. Kurt thought 'the Goodwill Ambassador' was cool! Before Regal could answer however, Angle vowed to do something about this, leaving. Regal was simply left to sigh, humbled at how hard the Commissioner gig truly was.
. 4) Triple H def. WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac (w/X-Factor) (3:50)As the Road to WrestleMania was set to see Triple H battle his longtime friend turned bitter rival Shawn Michaels as part of 'the Game's journey of redemption, tonight saw another former friendship rekindle itself as X-Pac looked to pull off a major upset against his fellow former D-Generation X leader. 'The Cerebral Assassin' had mocked X-Pac's alliance with Lance Storm and Justin Credible earlier tonight, and immediately proved a point by swatting for Justin before the bell. It gave X-Pac the opening to light him up with kicks early, a roundhouse kick stunning Triple H only for him to come flying back with a clothesline. X-Pac hoped to get back into the match, whipping Hunter off the ropes only to be met with a high knee instead! The match grew to ringside where Triple H pummelled X-Pac against the barricade, only to be distracted by Lance Storm. A roundhouse kick enabled X-Pac to get back into it, with a crossface chickenwing applied from a seated position. 'The Game' fired back only to be launched into the corner, where the Bronco Buster was humiliatingly executed! Crotch-chopping with ego, DX was long gone, but it only allowed 'the Game' to fire back with the DDT! A spinebuster had the match won when Credible distracted the referee for a missile dropkick from Storm, but Triple H kicked out! Storm distracted the referee as Justin tossed the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship in for X-Pac, but Triple H would prevent use of it, as a Pedigree gave him the win!
Overcoming the odds of X-Factor, Triple H had beaten his former friend from D-Generation X. X-Pac laid prone in the middle of the ring, but it wasn't enough for Lance Storm and Justin Credible to immediately jump 'the Game' after the match. Putting the boots to him, Triple H was able to rage back, drilling Storm with a spinebuster and clotheslining Credible from the ring! X-Factor backed away, but 'the Game' wasn't counting on a ringside photographer to hit the ring and strike with a Sweet Chin Music! Shawn Michaels revealed himself beneath the baseball cap, crotch chopping over his once-best friend's body! 'The Heartbreak Kid' had struck again where 'the Cerebral Assassin' hadn't counted on, as Shawn confidently swaggered up the rampway to pose at the top of the stage. Shawn was poking the bear in his former friend, who he'd meet at WrestleMania!
A video package aired, reviewing the epic comeback of Hulk Hogan last July on RAW is WAR. 'The Real American' hadn't skipped a beat in the ring as proven by his first match in a World Wrestling Federation ring back at SummerSlam 2000. Meanwhile, Kurt Angle's historic reign as WWF Champion and leader of the Coalition would come to a crashing halt back at No Way Out, where The Rock would put an end to his 169-day reign on top. As Angle remained furiously hell-bent and fixated on the WWF Championship however, he would be surprised on RAW is WAR three nights ago by the return of the Hulkster. Hogan made fun of the Olympic Gold Medalist, who in turn denounced Hulk's patriotism. Finally, the two colliding heads went face to face, with a match being made for WrestleMania. With all of the parallels and differences between the two proud Americans, 'the Grandaddy of Them All' would witness 'the American Hero' fight 'the Real American!'
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Shawn Michaels was spotted leaving the arena with the ringside photo camera hanging around his neck. Once again outsmarting his former best friend Triple H, Michael Cole tried hard to keep up with 'the Heartbreak Kid'. Finally giving the broadcast journalist his dues, he remarked how when he didn't show up everybody was mad. But then they're asking all the questions when he does show up! That's exactly how HBK liked it, because they never knew what to expect. They didn't know what hit them, and it looked like Hunter didn't know what hit him either! The truth was, Shawn was at a point in his life where he lived for the excitement, perhaps now more than ever. He made it no secret that if there was one thing 'the Game' hated more than anything, it was losing control. At WrestleMania, Michaels would allow Hunter to choose his own destiny, and be in control - of his own beating, courtesy of 'Mr. WrestleMania' himself, Shawn Michaels! HBK left the Arrowhead Pond proudly, while Triple H was sure to be looking for him.
. 5) Too Cool def. T&A (3:29)Test and Albert had not been on the same page as of late, the former WWF Tag Team Champions having attributed a chain of big losses in recent weeks. Albert had even called Test "scum" earlier tonight to their former business strategist Trish Stratus, who had incited some motivational words in claiming to be watching their match tonight. T&A did not get off to a hot start as they began to shove one another before the match. Fellow former WWF Tag Team Champions Too Cool capitalized, hitting the ring and striking fast. Stereo dropkicks were able to knock Test through the ropes, when another rocked Albert so hard his arms got trapped in the ropes! Scotty 2 Hotty and Grandmaster Sexay got in some shots, when Test was able to turn the tide with a pumphandle slam to Sexay! T&A began to hammer on Scotty, though with hard chops exchanged in place of tags. Albert delivered a corner splash to a defensive Scotty, when Test tagged himself in to hit a diving elbow drop from the top rope! Test made the cover, but Albert stormed in to break it up: this was his moment! Test was vexed and finally drilled 'the Freight Train' to cheers, when Scotty surprised the Canadian with a diving DDT off the top rope. Albert made the break before dragging Test to the corner for the tag, but as 'Big Baldo' prepared the Baldo Bomb, Scotty was able to break out and sunset flip his way to an upset!
Scotty 2 Hotty darted from the ring into Grandmaster Sexay's waiting arms, as Too Cool had their hands raised as unlikely victors over their towering opponents. Inside, Albert could not believe his luck. Not only had he lost to Scotty, but he had been drilled in the face by Test! Test re-entered the ring enraged by the upset as well, but when met by 'the Freight Train' they immediately butted heads. Exchanging heated words, T&A appeared to momentarily reconcile their partnership...before Test dramatically drilled Albert with the big boot! Test left to the adulation of the Anaheim crowd, T&A once again on the outs, or so it seemed!
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The Right to Censor were backstage celebrating the absence of 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' Chyna, as well as destruction of 'the One' Billy Gunn tonight courtesy of Mark Henry. The WWF Women's Champion Ivory touted 'the Secret Weapon' Mark Henry's contributions for the group, not only standing up for women everywhere in dispatching of Gunn tonight - but Kaientai as well! Steven Richards applauded his colleague while the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan cheered 'the Role Model's speech. Ivory said that the people out there didn't know it yet, but they would. They all no longer had to live in fear of Chyna. The cleansing process had begun, and now they could finally start their healing. No longer would the women's division worry about Chyna representing them. No longer would she galavant on television, perverting the minds of innocent teenagers and parents' children. The RTC had fought for civility, and with Chyna's neck problems - WrestleMania might as well be off, as far as the WWF Women's Championship was concerned! Ivory raised the title high, as the group clapped for her. Long live the RTC, apparently they needn't worry about the Playboy covergirl any longer.
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We returned to see the Big Show raising the WWF Hardcore Championship tall in the dressing room area, as he glamored the scrappy title around and screamed that 'the Hardcore Giant' had returned, and nobody could beat him down and keep him down! Kevin Kelly arrived at the scene to ask the 500-pounder what his motive was, to which the big man responded that it was simple. He wanted the title that belonged to him back. He hadn't forgotten everything that had been brought his way in the past. The Undertaker, Kane, Rhyno - they all felt this giant's wrath. Yet he proved them all wrong. Show calimed he was sick and tired of being taken lightly, but the whole locker room was on notice starting right now. The WWF Hardcore Championship was around his giant waist, and there would be nothing to take it from him. Coincidentally, Rhyno burst into the room armed with a trash can! 'The Man-Beast' tossed it at the big man and charged for a physical exchange, when the big man sent him soaring across the room over a couch! Show stomped out of the room quickly, leaving Rhyno to stand up from behind the couch angrily.. 6) The Radicalz (w/Terri) def. Bradshaw in a Handicap match (2:47)One-half of the APA was being taught a lesson courtesy of the new WWF Commissioner William Regal. After the rugged Texan stormed the WWF European Champion's office and spilled hot tea in his lap, 'the Goodwill Ambassador' had banned close confidante Jacqueline from ringside as he hoped to end this developing problem with the Radicalz. William Regal was seen backstage watching from his office with glee, as Bradshaw immediately threw lefts and rights at Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko. A powerslam caught Malenko off-guard, and he was able to catch Saturn with a fallaway slam when Eddie Guerrero struck from behind with a low dropkick. Terri cheered her boys on, as the Radicalz soon began to dismantle Bradshaw, targeting his leg and exchanging frequent tags. With Faarooq out injured, Bradshaw appeared about to join him. Finally Bradshaw found an opening in catching Saturn off the top rope with a clothesline, before mustering up a powerbomb for the intruding Malenko! Bradshaw tilt-a-whirl slammed 'Latino Heat' before lining him up for the Clothesline From Hell, only for the Radicalz to intercept! A combination leg-sweep and leg lariat saw Saturn and Malenko take Bradshaw down in total elimination, as Guerrero hit the Frog Splash for the three count!
Eddie Guerrero had once again bested Bradshaw, albeit at a disadvantage. The Radicalz celebrated their victory, but it didn't take long for Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko to join 'Latino Heat' in further putting the boots to the tough Texan! There was no Faarooq, and no Jacqueline to save the day for the lone APA member from the Radicalz, but before Saturn and Malenko could spread Bradshaw's limbs for a second Frog Splash off the top rope, out came William Regal!
The WWF Commissioner bellowed over the microphone, exclaiming that they had proven their points, and they'd played their part well. The WWF European Champion seemed incensed at the post-match beating they were handing out on Bradshaw, and ordered them to cease their actions immediately. They obliged and left the ring with Terri, leaving Bradshaw to meekly lean up in the ring. Regal glared at him from the rampway, telling him he'd hoped he had learned his lesson! What kind of Commissioner would Regal be if he were to land this job?
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Chris Benoit was spotted walking the halls, all geared up and ready to challenge The Rock for the WWF Championship in the main event's Submission match tonight. Suddenly however, he crossed paths with the Undertaker. Hobbling down the corridor, 'the American Badass' ordered Benoit to get out of his way. Instead choosing to make a cute remark, 'the Rabid Wolverine' commented that Undertaker wasn't looking so good. Perhaps his decade of destruction was behind him, and he should hang it up. Instead of acting, 'the Deadman' surprisingly allowed the Canadian to speak as he talked about how now was his time in the sun. He was going to become WWF Champion tonight, and go on to WrestleMania. Finally Undertaker acted, holding Benoit by the throat up against the wall! 'The Deadman' warned Benoit to speak when spoken to, and to respect his yard. He'd worked harder than any other man or woman alive to get here, with a decade of destruction left in his path. Benoit might hurt people, but if he dared cross 'the Deadman', he might find himself laying in wait, because Deadman Inc. was in the business of making people famous. Relinquishing his grasp, Undertaker limped away. Benoit simply smiled and headed for the ring. The main event was coming up next!
We returned to see Michael Cole and Tazz sat at the announce table, giving a shout-out to the rap-metal artist Limp Bizkit for providing the theme song for WrestleMania X-Seven. With seventeen days until 'the Grandaddy of Them All', it was already shaping up to be a massive show. The winner of tonight's Submission match for the WWF Championship would determine who would walk into WrestleMania to face the 2001 Royal Rumble winner Stone Cold Steve Austin - but would it be The Rock or Chris Benoit? Shawn Michaels was once again lacing up his boots to battle his once-best friend Triple H. In a shocking announcement made on Monday night's RAW is WAR, Kurt Angle fights Hulk Hogan in 'the Real American vs the American Hero'. Earlier tonight it was made official that Chris Jericho would defend the WWF Intercontinental Championship against the physical holder of the title right now, Raven in an Astrodome Asylum match. And despite the injury to Chyna on Monday, the WWF Women's Championship was currently still scheduled to go down - as Ivory would put the title on the line against 'the Ninth Wonder of the World!' April 1 was bound to go down in the history books.
. 7) The Rock (c) def. Chris Benoit to retain the WWF Championship in a Submission match (10:33)
The Rock was scheduled to go into the biggest match of his career in less than three weeks against his biggest career rival of all, Stone Cold Steve Austin. Yet ahead of WrestleMania, 'the Great One' had to fend off constant threats to his WWF Championship reign, namely Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit. Despite beating both in a Triple Threat match last week on SmackDown, 'the Rabid Wolverine' wanted one more shot to himself tonight, and it went accepted by Commissioner William Regal with the stipulation - that the match could only be won when one man had tapped out, courtesy of the other! The challenger wasted no time making his move, leaving the ring and engaging in an exchange of fists with the WWF Champion. Attempting a snap suplex on the rampway, Rock turned it around on Benoit, before drilling the Canadian against the barricade and sending him into the steel steps! Rock hoped to continue the momentum, only to be back body dropped into the crowd! Benoit press slammed Rock abdomen-first across the barricade, chopping away at the chest of 'the Brahma Bull'. Rock attempted a clothesline only to miss, and a snap suplex went executed on the ringside floor! Back from the commercial break, 'the Wolverine' was continuing his dissection of 'the People's Champ', a cross-armbreaker applied with the referee keeping an eye on the condition of the champion. The challenger found himself nearly rolled up, when Benoit was able to flex the hold back on completely. Choosing to break it, Rock tried to put up a fight only to hit the ropes and wind up in an abdominal stretch. Rock was able to hip toss free after some struggle, and was able to score with a floatover DDT in desperation!
Gasping for breath and clutching his arm, Rock looked at a spinebuster only to go blocked, and a gutbuster from Benoit connected! Following up, Rock was sent shoulder-first into the ring post, making way for a powerbomb from 'the Crippler.' Benoit was proving himself to be the best technical wrestler tonight, when Benoit looked for the Crossface only for Rock to immediately cling to the bottom rope. Putting the boots to 'the People's Champ', Benoit connected with three German suplexes in a row, before hitting the top rope for the Diving Headbutt! Executed perfectly, Benoit targeted the shoulder of Rock, and proceeded with a second Crossface applied. Rock battled with all his might, finally making the bottom rope to Benoit's disdain! Shoving down the referee he grabbed a steel chair from ringside, but out came Kurt Angle! 'The Megastar' ducked a chair shot and went blow for blow with Benoit, connecting with a belly-to-belly suplex for Benoit! Kurt Angle was getting revenge for Chris Benoit's meddling from Monday, but suddenly the glass shattered and Anaheim sprung to life! Stone Cold Steve Austin hit the ring to raise hell on the Olympic Gold Medalist, dropping him with the Stone Cold Stunner! Benoit tried to get at Austin only to receive a swift steel chair shot across the skull, and 'the Texas Rattlesnake' departed to stomp a mudhole in Angle on the floor! Benoit groggily wandered to his feet only to be swept by Rock, who locked in the Sharpshooter! 'The Wolverine' was in a bad way from the chair shot, and had no choice but to tap out!
The Rock collapsed in exhaustion after a hard-fought battle to retain the WWF Championship. It took everything he had, but 'the Great One' was able to pull out the stops against Chris Benoit, in 'the Rabid Wolverine's own playground - a Submission match. Benoit remained down and out from the steel chair shot to the skull from Stone Cold Steve Austin, who could be seen watching on. Kurt Angle ran with his tail between his legs, his own business to take care of come WrestleMania, against 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan.
Stone Cold Steve Austin grabbed the WWF Championship and slowly climbed into the ring. The Rock watched in a daze, knowing better than to trust his WrestleMania opponent, his career rival. But as Austin approached Rock, he simply placed the WWF Championship gold on 'the Brahma Bull's shoulder and patted it toughly. Rock thanked the 2001 Royal Rumble winner, and called for a handshake before parting ways...but gave Austin the Rock Bottom! 'The Rattlesnake's help was not deemed necessary in the eyes of 'the People's Champ', who continued his victory celebration on the second rope. Things were heating up, with seventeen days remaining until the main event of 'the Grandaddy of Them All!' |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 17, 2021 18:33:54 GMT -5
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Post by DTP. on Mar 17, 2021 19:06:17 GMT -5
Jakked - March 17, 2001
Staples Center in Los Angeles, California
Broadcast on syndication
Taped on March 12, 2001The opening video package aired, bringing us to the arena where Kevin Kelly and Jonathan Coachman welcomed us to WWF Jakked, two weeks away from WrestleMania X-Seven!
1) Scotty 2 Hotty def. Essa Rios (3:58)Coming off of a triumphant upset against the self-destructing T&A combination of Test and Albert on SmackDown, one-half of Too Cool geared up for high-flying action against a former WWF Light Heavyweight Champion, Essa Rios. Scotty 2 Hotty was full of life coming into this match, exchanging some lucha-libre inspired moves courtesy of 'the Daredevil'. Rios was able to take Scotty down with a hard tilt-a-whirl backbreaker, and a somersault tope over the top rope caught Scotty for a near fall. Unfortunately, Essa's plan backfired once he took moments too long on the top rope ahead of a moonsault, and Scotty was able to capitalize with a bulldog, and the Worm scored him his second victory of the week.
2) Albert def. Scoot Andrews (3:15)It appeared that T&A were done as a tag team, the former WWF Tag Team Champions having been on a losing streak for weeks. Test had finally had enough of 'the Freight Train', blasting him with a big boot after an upset loss to Too Cool on SmackDown this past week. Scoot Andrews hoped to dispatch the hot-tempered 350-pounder, and put up a fight only to be derailed with a big corner splash. Albert bear hugged the life out of Andrews, when Scoot made a comeback and knocked Albert down with a neckbreaker. Unfortunately, 'the Freight Train' rushed back up and scored the pin with a Baldo Bomb.
3) Kaientai def. Keiji Dakota and Frank Guerzzera (4:49)Taka Michinoku and Funaki were quickly gaining popularity with the World Wrestling Federation fans, coming off of their Kaientai invasion of Sunday Night Heat several weeks ago. Kaientai were unlucky in making the save for 'the One' Billy Gunn at the Right to Censor's hands on SmackDown, but hoped to keep their fandom growing against two aspiring prospects in Keiji Dakota and Frank Guerzzera tonight on Jakked. Keiji was matched to Funaki's skills and scored with a big boot to give the unsigned talents some time to compromise Funaki with a series of unique and innovative tag team moves. Unfortunately for them, Taka would come bounding in with a springboard dropkick off the hot tag, and after a tornado DDT from Funaki to Frank, Taka picked up the win with the Michinoku Driver on Dakota. |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 18, 2021 20:10:31 GMT -5
 Sunday Night Heat - March 18, 2001
Arrowhead Pond in Anaheim, California
Broadcast on MTV - Live from WWF New York
Taped on March 13, 2001The opening video package aired, bringing us inside of the restaurant and entertainment complex in downtown New York City. Live from New York, Sunday Night Heat was on the air!
Chris Jericho immediately graced the stage with his presence. The people inside of WWF New York were thrilled to see the WWF Intercontinental Champion, albeit without his championship gold. Y2J graced New York is Jericho to a rousing ovation from the crowd, talking about Sunday Night Heat blowing the ratings sky high each and every week, but now finally 'the Sexy Beast' had made his way back to the complex! But on a serious level, he realized he was appearing a little naked tonight. In his shirt and leather pants, he wasn't talking about a shirt to cover his sexy chest - but he was in fact talking about the WWF Intercontinental Championship that belonged to him! He calmed the boos of the crowd instructing them to have no fear however, because in two weeks to the day, he will get it back from that oozing, wretched, filthy, disgusting, homeless parasite Raven! And Jericho was more than willing to go through whatever the hell an Astrodome Asylum match is to get it!
Jericho rallied the people, talking about WrestleMania being right around the corner, but Y2J wasn't just here to talk about the most grandiose of spectacles, being in the ring before a packed sellout crowd of 60,000 people in Houston's Reliant Astrodome - but he was here tonight to accept Raven's challenge. For weeks and weeks, he had been played a fool by Raven and his buxom, pasty-faced, hungover wench Tori - but the fun of 'the Creator' would stop at WrestleMania. If Raven planned to light a fire beneath Y2J, he is hot as hell. Chris Jericho will stop at nothing to show Raven how unalike, dissimilar and crazy they both were! And then, he planned to return to WWF New York, get wasted on a hot and steamy night inside this very building as the WWF Intercontinental Champion once more - and they would all never, ever feel the same again!
Michael Cole and Tazz welcomed us formally to Sunday Night Heat from their position behind the desk. Amazed by the words that a game WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho had to say moments ago, they reminded us that WrestleMania was right around the corner in two weeks time from the Reliant Astrodome in Houston, Texas! Tazz appreciated Y2J's moxy, but wondered if he had a mean streak crazy enough to fight Raven in whatever the Astrodome Asylum match was. Cole ran down what was coming up tonight, as they would be joined with a special update on the wellfare of Chyna from boyfriend 'the One' Billy Gunn. Plus, X-Factor would team up to meet the Fighting Holly Cousins!
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Spike Dudley was backstage at the arena, noticeably on edge ahead of singles action tonight. There were no Dudley Boyz in sight, when he was approached by Jonathan Coachman. The Coach noticed Spike's nerves, as he admitted although he beat Christian several weeks ago in his World Wrestling Federation debut, he wasn't used to his brothers D-Von and Bubba Ray not being around to have his back. But if they could fight tough and get what they want, like they did to Edge and Christian with the Hardy Boyz on SmackDown last Thursday - so can he! Spike pounded his hands on a production case and let out a dramatic warcry, headed to meet Essa Rios next!
A video package aired, running us through the week of the new hopeful WWF Commissioner William Regal. The WWF European Champion finally got his wishes granted by Shane McMahon, positioning him on a trial week in charge of overseeing the World Wrestling Federation. 'The Goodwill Ambassador's true colors immediately showed, booking himself in a Champion vs Champion winner takes all match with WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho. The Englishman failed to become a double champion however, but ran into a spot of bother with Bradshaw, who promptly scolded his bare legs with hot tea later that night. Flash forward to SmackDown, Regal had a part in making the main event Submission match for the WWF Championship between The Rock and Chris Benoit, despite jeopardizing the "morality" surrounding the title, under three weeks from WrestleMania. Though the Commissioner would have his payback on Bradshaw, making him suffer a three-on-one handicap match loss courtesy of the Radicalz. Regal was not a lawmaker to be trifled with, but we would have to wait until RAW is WAR on Monday to find out what Shane McMahon had to say about his performance this week!
1) Spike Dudley def. Essa Rios (3:42)The Dudley Boyz came up short of regaining the WWF Tag Team Championships in a wild triple threat match against champions Edge and Christian, as well as the Hardy Boyz on SmackDown, but gained some retribution in defeat. The Dudleys and the Hardys had issues dating back a year, but conspired to drive both Canadians through tables last Thursday night. Tonight, Spike Dudley prepared to go it alone against an over confident former WWF Light Heavyweight Champion, Essa Rios. Rios slapped Spike before the bell before frustrating the runt of the Dudleys with a series of wristlocks and armdrags. Spike soon managed to outwrestler Essa into a hammerlock, only to be dragged down by the hair. Essa put the boots to Spike, bullying him mockingly. Spike threw several haymakers in return, only to be cut off by a hurricanrana from the ropes. Essa showboated with poise, before scoring with a missile dropkick for a near fall. Rios restrained him in a side headlock, but Spike was able to run 'the Daredevil' out to the floor through the ropes, allowing Spike to fly with a suicide dive! Beating Essa against the apron, he rolled him in only to be hit with a sliding dropkick, followed by a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Rios confidently went to the top rope for the 450 splash, btu Spike was able to get his knees up! An inside cradle gave him a near fall, when a running bulldog saw Spike ascend the turnbuckle - the Dudley Dog picking up a big win for Spike!
The plucky underdog Spike Dudley was victorious against a former WWF Light Heavyweight Champion in Essa Rios, who was definitely too calm and relaxed coming into this match. Spike had his hands raised in celebration, looking almost as mean as his brothers Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley. Spike was 150-pounds, but still not to be underestimated!
Michael Cole and Tazz talked more about the rapidly escalating situation surrounding the WWF Tag Team Championships of late, and how once again Edge and Christian were the champs to beat, but tomorrow night on RAW is WAR we would see the Hardy Boyz battle the Dudley Boyz one more time!
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K-Kwik was seen backstage warming up for action, despite the bandaged ribs suffered at the hands of Rhyno in last week's WWF Hardcore Championship match. This was a pumped up K-Dawg, focused on getting even on the Right to Censor for everything they had done to the likes of Chyna, Billy Gunn and Kaientai. D-Lo Brown coolly entered the room, an elaborate golden robe on from his recent lottery win. Suggesting his tag team partner take it easy tonight, K-Kwik took offense to D-Lo, telling him he was focused on one thing: getting even tonight! D-Lo reasoned with the rapper that the Goodfather might not be a pimp that loves to party anymore, that Mark Henry might not be the Sexual Chocolate he once was. But one thing was for sure, win or loss tonight - D-Lo had a whole lot of money in the bank than he knew what to do with. Brown suggested when they're done kicking ass tonight, they can hit a night out on the town and score some hot ladies. K-Dawg nodded his head as Brown left for the ring. K-Kwik was focused on revenge, against the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan up next!
A video package aired, looking back at Kurt Angle's fall from grace at No Way Out. Losing the WWF Championship to The Rock in the midst of a heated Triple Threat match also featuring Triple H, 'the Megastar' longed to once again wear the title. Unfortunately for him, every attempt went thwarted. Disheartened by another unsuccessful opportunity days prior on SmackDown, Kurt Angle took to the ring to whine and complain about not being the man to walk into WrestleMania on top of the World Wrestling Federation. Shocked, the Los Angeles crowd stood in awe as 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan made his way to the ring. Hogan attempted to inspire Angle with a pet talk, only for the Olympic Gold Medalist to discredit all of the WWF Legend's accomplishments. Finally, the challenge was thrown out: 'the Real American vs the American Hero', come WrestleMania! Since coming away from the intense confrontation of a lifetime, the Olympian played it cool and continued to underestimate the Hulkster, but would find himself the odd man out in a first time meeting with Stone Cold Steve Austin later that night, thanks to the irritancy of Chris Benoit. Angle was struggling to stay afloat since losing the WWF Championship, but desperately needed to get focused for WrestleMania with 'the Icon!'
Michael Cole and Tazz welcomed us back to Sunday Night Heat, discussing the comments that Kurt Angle had to say about Hulk Hogan. The former two-time WWF Champion had insulted the Hulkster's legacy of selling out buildings, being the biggest draw in all of World Wrestling Federation history, and having celebrated the United States of America as well as the Olympic Gold Medalist. Tazz commented on 'the Megastar's motivation having hit a roadblock since No Way Out, and losing out on the main event was a stinger. But a match with the likes of 'the Real American' was sure to put Kurt's head back in the game where it belonged. Cole questioned Kurt's relationship with Chris Benoit, how 'the Rabid Wolverine' was wasting no time making nothing but enemies in recent weeks - from Linda McMahon, all the way to the Undertaker last Thursday on SmackDown!
. 2) The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan (w/Mark Henry) def. K-Kwik and D-Lo Brown (3:27)The Right to Censor were on a hit list recently, having contributed to Chyna's premature return to the ring last Monday night for mixed tag team action . WWF Women's Champion Ivory pinned 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' three weeks away from their title encounter at WrestleMania after lingering issues with her neck caused the Playboy covergirl to collapse. The match at WrestleMania in jeopardy, the RTC also did a number on her boyfriend Billy Gunn on SmackDown, as well as Kaientai! K-Kwik was sick of their actions and darted to the ring to battle the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan, as 'the Secret Weapon' Mark Henry watched from ringside. K-Dawg hit an axe kick on Goodfather before nailing a sitout suplex for Buchanan for a near fall. Tagging in D-Lo Brown, the newly rich man scored with a leg lariat and showboated for a legdrop, only to score a near fall. A backbreaker into K-Dawg's second rope legdrop scored another two count, as a promising tag team continued working over Bull. The rapper grew distracted by Mark Henry on the floor, allowing Bull to bicycle kick his way in charge of the match. The RTC did a number on K-Kwik with a sidewalk slam from Goodfather, while D-Lo frequently checked his watch and yawned from the apron. K-Dawg caught Bull off the second rope with a boot to the face, but as K-Kwik dove for the tag to D-Lo, Brown inexplicably jumped down from the apron! K-Kwik was left high and dry, as D-Lo waltzed up the rampway. On his own, K-Kwik turned around to eat a death valley driver, giving Goodfather victory!
D-Lo Brown was nowhere to be seen after the bell, having left K-Kwik high and dry without even a care or reason! The Right to Censor stood dominantly over the fallen rapper, as Mark Henry joined the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan in the ring. The RTC were not renowned for being honorable or considerate of their opponents, as evidenced by 'the Secret Weapon's massive 400-pound legdrop draping the head of K-Dawg! D-Lo had some serious explaining to do, turning his back on K-Kwik for the money!
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We cut to Michael Cole and Tazz in WWF New York, where they announced breaking news. They had just gotten word that tomorrow night on RAW is WAR Shane McMahon would be back in person, leading one to question what he made of the job as WWF Commissioner for the week, William Regal had put in over the past week! Not only that, but 'the Goodwill Ambassador' had pre-designed an official contract signing to set the WWF Championship main event of WrestleMania in stone for good - The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin would share the ring and sign the contract, with under two weeks remaining until 'the Grandest Stage of Them All!' Tazz claimed it was a wise move on the part of the WWF European Champion, sure to be a huge rocket buster in the ratings!
A video package aired, recapping the monstrous Triple Threat match this past week on SmackDown between WWF Hardcore Champion Rhyno and the Brothers of Destruction. The Undertaker and Kane were in it to win it by defeating 'the Man-Beast' and taking the title, though the warring half-brothers would encounter a massive obstacle once the seven-foot-two, 500-pound Big Show made a grand return. Armed with two steel chairs, 'the Giant' laid waste to all three men after several weeks' absence, using the 24/7 rule to full advantage to once again be crowned the WWF Hardcore Champion! Show exclaimed that he was 'the Extreme Giant' for a reason and mocked Rhyno, 'the American Badass' and 'the Big Red Machine' in his locker room after the match, only to be jumped by the former champ Rhyno! Show managed to escape from the room with Rhyno flipped over a couch, but the chase was on. They were no longer chasing the Rhyno, they were chasing the Big Show!
. 3) X-Factor def. The Fighting Holly Cousins (w/Molly Holly) (5:28)Since arriving in the World Wrestling Federation to join forces with a longtime friend in Lance Storm, Justin Credible had not exactly endeared himself to many people in the World Wrestling Federation. Now in cohoots with WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac, the trio known now as X-Factor were unsuccessful in taking down Triple H when 'the Game' battled the champion on SmackDown last Thursday. With no X-Pac with them tonight, they engaged with the Fighting Holly Cousins with a chip on their shoulders. Storm and Credible played rock, paper, scissors to determine who started, but Lance Storm's win would lead to Crash Holly getting a head start on him early. Crash's agility and quickness saw a hurricanrana score a near fall, followed by an Oklahoma roll. Hardcore Holly came in fresh with a sharp dropkick for Storm, slapping the arrogant Canadian across the face before a body slam and diving legdrop gave him a near fall.
Molly Holly watched with curiosity as the Hollys went to work on Storm, who was finally able to tag in Credible after catching Crash from the top rope with a dropkick in mid-air! Credible mocked and choked Crash in the ropes, antagonizing Hardcore where he could. Crash tried to make a comeback against Storm, only to receive a super kick for a near fall! Credible nailed a missile dropkick and teased the Impaler, when Crash monkey flipped his way out of it to make the tag to Hardcore! Hardcore slapped Justin hard across the face before running hot on Storm with boots in the corner. Setting up the Alabama Slam, Credible broke it up illegally and scored the Impaler DDT, when Molly came off the top rope behind the referee's back with the Molly Go-Round! Storm sweeped Hardcore from under him, forcing Holly to succumb to defeat with the Maple Leaf Crab!
X-Factor were impressive in playing it cool to pick up the victory tonight on Sunday Night Heat, putting away a pair of former WWF Tag Team Champions in the Fighting Holly Cousins. Molly Holly and Crash Holly were quick to fend off Lance Storm and Justin Credible after the bell, who victoriously fist bumped on the rampway. X-Factor had friends in high places with their friendship known with Shawn Michaels after SmackDown last Thursday night, and if they continued with their winning ways, would no doubt be impact players in the tag team hunt.
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A video package aired, taking us back to RAW is WAR two weeks ago. With the challenge made between two former best friends in the business, Triple H was left beaten in a bloody mess courtesy of Shawn Michaels. Incensed by 'the Heartbreak Kid's actions, 'the Game' planned to call out his old D-Generation X co-founder in the ring six nights ago on RAW is WAR, running down Shawn and claiming him to be a different man than the guy he once knew. Despite his attempts at provoking and calling out Shawn, the San Antonio Texan was nowhere to be seen. On SmackDown this past Thursday, 'the Cerebral Assassin' would take on another of his betrayers, fending off all three members of X-Factor to put away X-Pac. After the match however, 'the Game' was not expecting to be left laying at the hands of a ringside photographer, who would reveal himself to be none other than HBK himself! Shawn joked that Hunter would never see him coming in an interview while leaving the building, but in two weeks time there would be no more hit and run attacks when the two meet at WrestleMania!
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'The One' Billy Gunn was seen exiting the green room backstage at WWF New York. Coming days after an attack from the Right to Censor last Thursday night on SmackDown, Billy was looking beat up but was coming to provide a status report on his debilitated girlfriend. Following the freak accident collapse of 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' Chyna six nights ago on RAW is WAR, Billy hoped to provide an injury update on whether the Playboy covergirl would be able to make it to WrestleMania in a sit-down interview - up next!
A video package aired, looking at the continuing journey of The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin, as they rapidly approach what has potential to be the biggest match in WrestleMania history in two weeks. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' had much to say about 'the Brahma Bull' on RAW is WAR last Monday night, only to be met by the WWF Champion who had some bold words to say to his challenger. The question about whether Stone Cold still had what it took, after the comeback of a lifetime, to recapture the WWF Championship would be answered later that night in heat of battle with Kurt Angle. Chris Benoit would get involved, prompting Rock to come to 'the Rattlesnake's aid before teasing him with a sly Rock Bottom attempt. Eyes clashing, the two's battle at WrestleMania grew in jeopardy once SmackDown rolled around. WWF Commissioner William Regal made the match for 'the Rabid Wolverine' - a Submission match for the WWF Championship. Rock was in harm's way against the best technical wrestler in the business, when Kurt Angle hit the ring to thwart Benoit and claim revenge on Rock for taking his title. It would go awry, as Austin would come to his aid, cleaning house of Angle allowing Rock to put Benoit away with the Sharpshooter. After the match, Austin teased delivering the Stunner to Rock, only to celebrate in dramatic fashion. The match would be set in stone in tomorrow's contract signing on RAW - but who would fire the first blow?
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D-Lo Brown was seen walking backstage. In a high-priced suit, Brown was looking forward to getting out of dodge after leaving K-Kwik high and dry and turning his back on him moments ago. Jonathan Coachman hoped to catch a word with D-Lo, who claimed that he didn't need the rapper, nor did he ever need him. There was no tag team there, no chemistry. He didn't need K-Kwik because now, for the first time in his life, he is filthy rich! D-Lo always said he was the real deal, and now they all knew why. He was untouchable, had all the wealth in the world and that was all he ever wanted. He could retire right now if he wanted, but he wasn't done yet. The World Wrestling Federation could belong to him, as could all the finer things in life that his money could buy! Brown was delusional from his big score with the lottery win several weeks ago!
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Michael Cole and Tazz were on the stage at WWF New York, with Tazz arguing in favor of D-Lo Brown's decision in turning his back on the fans, as well as K-Kwik. He didn't need them now, he was dirty rich! Michael shifted gears to discuss the tragic freak accident that saw Chyna debilitated on RAW is WAR, with the Right to Censor namely Ivory claiming herself to be the most dangerous WWF Women's Champion after pinning her WrestleMania opponent. With 'the Ninth Wonder of the World's condition unknown, the two welcomed their final guest of the night - the Playboy covergirl's boyfriend Billy Gunn. 'The One' made his way out to the stage to the screams of the women in attendance, casually dressed but baring a grim expression on his face. As Billy took a seat on the couch, Michael wanted to ask how he was feeling with his girlfriend's chances of making a comeback in time for WrestleMania in clear danger. Billy grieved the emotions felt this past week, guilt being the major contribution. Himself and Chyna were complex, but he had to accept that she is who she is. That isn't to say he could in good conscience allow it, because the trainer wouldn't allow it either. Yet he knew that in her eyes, they could not allow the RTC to win. Billy felt terrible, but Chyna was at home resting up, and thankfully the lingering damages were minimal.
Cole noted how the Right to Censor had been firing on all cylinders of late, including attacks dealt to the likes of K-Kwik, himself, Chyna, and even Kaientai. Billy knew Steven Richards' game, to decimate anybody who opposed him. The RTC was armed with some of the toughest soldiers, including Bull Buchanan, the Goodfather and Mark Henry. Suddenly, Billy's answer was interrupted as Steven Richards and WWF Women's Champion Ivory came walking out through the crowd! WWF New York booed loudly, as Ivory came armed with a microphone. 'The Role Model' ordered Billy to face the facts: be the bigger boyfriend and face more beatings, because the RTC weren't going anywhere. With Chyna's certain need to retire, it meant that Ivory was the real 'Role Model', and that she would continue to lead the pack in the women's division. Billy groaned and rolled his eyes, as Steven questioned the kind of man Gunn was! He believed Chyna should be counting her blessings to still even have power to feel her arms, her legs and toes right now after what Ivory did to her. Not only was she the champ, she was the most dominant, most dangerous champion the WWF had to offer. As far as everybody was concerned, that made Ivory 'the Tenth Wonder of the World!'
Billy Gunn finally stood up as the Right to Censor members approached the stage. Prepared for a potential sneak attack from any of Steven Richards and Ivory's goons, Billy had eyes in the back of his head as he squared up and invited Steven onto the stage. Ivory suggested Billy drop the tough guy act: to be a real man and tell everybody the bad news, how there would be no WWF Women's Championship match for Chyna at WrestleMania. Billy told Ivory that that was where she was dead wrong. He could make a bold decision for his girlfriend, 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' - but the fact was, the part he left out was that Chyna was preparing for their match. She was back at the gym, lifting and training. And come WrestleMania, Ivory was in for a real shock, because Chyna was focused on one thing and one thing only - kicking her ass, and taking that title! The match at WrestleMania was still on! Ivory and Steven's eyes widened in horror, as Billy encouraged the fans to stand united against the RTC. Reluctant they left, while Michael Cole and Tazz talked about the RTC having their backs against the wall, come 'the Grandaddy of Them All!' |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 19, 2021 21:09:27 GMT -5
 WWF Live! - March 17-18, 2001
March 17, 2001 - Toronto Skydome in Toronto, Ontario, Canada:
- Kaientai def. The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan
- William Regal (c) def. Al Snow to retain the WWF European Championship.
- Ivory (c) def. Molly Holly & Trish Stratus to retain the WWF Women's Championship.
- Rhyno def. Steve Blackman in a Hardcore match.
- Edge and Christian (c) def. The Hardy Boyz, The Dudley Boyz & Lance Storm and Justin Credible to retain the WWF Tag Team Championships.
- Billy Gunn def. Steven Richards
- The Radicalz def. Bradshaw and Too Cool
- Big Show (c) def. The Undertaker & Kane to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship.
- Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H def. Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit
- Kaientai def. The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan
- William Regal (c) def. Al Snow to retain the WWF European Championship.
- Ivory (c) def. Molly Holly & Trish Stratus to retain the WWF Women's Championship.
- Rhyno def. Steve Blackman in a Hardcore match.
- Edge and Christian (c) def. The Hardy Boyz, The Dudley Boyz & Lance Storm and Justin Credible to retain the WWF Tag Team Championships.
- Billy Gunn def. Steven Richards
- The Radicalz def. Bradshaw and Too Cool
- Big Show (c) def. The Undertaker & Kane to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship.
- Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H def. Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit
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Post by DTP. on Mar 19, 2021 21:11:20 GMT -5
RAW is WAR - March 19, 2001
Pepsi Arena in Albany, New York
Live on TNN
We kicked off RAW is WAR to a live shot outside of the Pepsi Arena, where a limousine was seen pulling up. It was announced last night on Sunday Night Heat that Shane McMahon would be returning tonight, but the industry was in for a shock once the driver got out to open the door - revealing Vince McMahon! The Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation hadn't been seen in weeks, following the backstage assault from his own son Shane! Vince wasted no time in marching through the parking lot - Shane had to watch his back!
The opening video package aired, bringing us to Albany, New York. A packed house was in attendance for pyrotechnics fired from the rafters of the Pepsi Arena - as Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler welcomed us to RAW is WAR! With under two weeks until 'the Grandaddy of Them All', J.R. and 'King' let us know what was in store for us tonight: as Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock would put pen to paper and make their WWF Championship meeting at WrestleMania official in a once in a lifetime contract signing! Plus, the Hardy Boyz would meet the Dudley Boyz in a match with serious title implications. 'The One' Billy Gunn would have his shot at Steven Richards in a Lumberjack match; and Kurt Angle would meet Chris Benoit - just thirteen days away from 'the Megastar's battle with Hulk Hogan!
Vince McMahon wasted no time strutting out to the ring, receiving a loyal ovation from the Albany crowd in attendance. Acknowledging the salutations of the people, the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation appeared in high spirits, as he climbed into the ring and took a microphone. Vince declared how good it felt to be back, acknowledging how long a few weeks it had been. A lot had happened in the past month, from the disrepair done to his family to the state of the WWF in the hands of his scoundrel of a son, Shane. With that said, his wife Linda McMahon was at home resting with the best supervising staff that money could buy. The WWF CEO had a long road of recuperation ahead of her, which is why it would be even more damning for her to know what the hell had gone on while they've been gone. Not only did his son hate his guts and blindsight him a few weeks ago, but his name had been dragged through the proverbial mud on top of that! For all of the times he had been patient with Shane, and patient with the people - but as he rested at home with a bandage on his head, constantly taking care of his traumatized wife, he thought long and hard about how to deal with his son. It had all come to a head, and he wanted Shane to get out here right now so they could settle it like real adult males!
Shane McMahon was not one to back down from his father's call tonight, even daring to swagger out with a smirk on his face. Shane was not surprised to see his Dad, nor afraid after their last meeting in the hall three weeks ago. Joining Vince in the ring, Shane took a microphone of his own and looked his old man in the eye. He wasn't surprised to see Vince, but wanted to know how well Mom was getting along with her new medication. Raised eyebrows and all, Vince claimed that Linda was taking to the meds well enough. Swiftly using it to discuss the accusations he had implied his father of, Shane admitted that the Trish Stratus rumor was a misstep - but he wasn't sorry for a thing that he came out and said a few weeks ago. New York booed Shane loudly, as he reasoned dhow tired he was of Dad lying to his face throughout his life. Vince might not be sleeping around on his incapacitated wife with Trish, but he sure as hell knew about his past affairs. Shane knew all about the dirty son of a b*tch's lust for women that wasn't his mother, and he wasn't about to hear another word otherwise. Vince warned Shane to watch his mouth, reminding him how lucky he was to not dismantle him right now for what he did. What he was however, was a lot of things. Vince said that he had his demons, in fact, people often compared him to the devil. He might be 'the Genetic Jackhammer', and perhaps in hindsight, maybe he regretted having Shane. But if there was one thing Vincent Kennedy McMahon was - it was a good husband!
The Chairman got in Shane McMahon's face, telling his son that Shane O'Mac lacked the authority needed to be the man. He was the poorest excuse of a product of semen to ever exist. The lengths Shane was willing to go to get what he believed was his - he thought he was the successor of the World Wrestling Federation, or the heir to the throne. If there was one precise reason Vince refused to just roll over and let his son take over the company, Shane exemplified it several weeks ago when he jumped him from behind. Shane wasn't what the business needed, he wasn't even what the company needed: he was a cowardly little b*tch! Shane smiled in return while the crowd were stunned. The harsh words out of his father's mouth only invigorated him, telling Vince that he was damn right on one thing. He would do whatever it took to get the job done, and to take his Dad out of the picture. Shane had a lot of love for his sister Stephanie, and a great amount of admiration for his mother Linda - he's simply sorry he had to put up with such a senile old bastard like Vince! The Chairman rolled his eyes, telling Shane that this could not go on. When he returned tonight, he did so for one reason and one reason only: to put an end to this family war. But with the McMahon Family Empire burning before the eyes of the world, there was only one way to end this: a fight. Shane was surprised to hear it, as Vince told Shane he wasn't afraid to strike down his old son...but he was willing to wait until WrestleMania to do it! Pointing the finger in his son's chest, he told Shane that after all that he had done over the past year, it was all about to come to an end - all the lies, the slander, the attacks - and he hoped God forgave him for what he was about to do in finally making a man out of his son! The Chairman had spoken and dropped the mic before leaving the ring, leaving Shane appearing intimidated. It would be father against son at WrestleMania - how could the McMahon Family come back from this ever again?
Kurt Angle and Stephanie McMahon were seen arriving at the Pepsi Arena, hand-in-hand. After being threatened by Chris Benoit two weeks ago, 'the Billion Dollar Princess' appeared calmer while her boyfriend remained agitated. He talked about how set his mind was on embarrassing Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania, that the Hulkster thought he was in for an easy payday against a former WWF Champion Olympian like himself. Steph assured Kurt that he would do fine, but what she wanted him to do tonight was stand up for her, and beat Chris Benoit's ass badly! Angle assured Steph that he wasn't even worried about 'the Rabid Wolverine', when a backstage assistant showed up abruptly. He broke the news to Steph about the announcement just made regarding her family: Vince McMahon had called Shane McMahon out to a match at WrestleMania! Stephanie was shocked and walked off immediately, leaving Angle perplexed. He shrugged it off and continued down the hall.
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Sparks of pyrotechnics blasted across the stage, bringing out the new WWF Hardcore Champion. Coming days after decimating the Brothers of Destruction and Rhyno, the Big Show dominantly and proudly displayed the title over his massive shoulder as he stomped down to the ring. 'The Hardcore Giant' spoke on the microphone about making a statement last Thursday night on SmackDown. After what the Brothers of Destruction did to him, they all felt the wrath of a hungry 'Giant' when he returned - but now, he was back and fouler than ever! The Undertaker, Kane, not even Rhyno could stop him, and now he was once again the WWF Hardcore Champion! The New York crowded detested the champ, who demanded their respect for being 'the Hardcore Giant'. Suddenly, Al Snow interrupted him - armed with a trash can and a kendo stick!
1) Big Show (c) def. Al Snow to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship (2:38)Four nights ago on SmackDown, the Big Show made his return interfering in a Triple Threat match to reclaim his WWF Hardcore Championship. In revenge for being double Chokeslammed through the announce table a few weeks ago, 'the Giant' left the Undertaker, Kane and even Rhyno laying before claiming his title. Only now, the target was on the back of the 500-pounder. Al Snow had decided to make similar use of the 24/7 rule as Show, immediately hitting the ring and swinging low with trash can shots to the legs, only for the big man to headbutt him away. Choking the challenger in the corner, a massive chop impacted Al before a trash can shot knocked him silly. Out to the floor they went, with Snow immediately leading the chase back inside, before wisely using the kendo stick to kneecap the tree-trunk legs of the new WWF Hardcore Champion. A dropkick into the trash can stunned Show in the corner, when Snow went under the ring for a small bag. Unveiling a bowling ball, he hit a strike, rolling it across the ring into the world's largest genitals of the champ! Snow covered, but Show was able to press him through the ropes to the floor! Snow tried to remain on the offensive, only to succumb to a massive Chokeslam from Show! Only he wasn't finished yet, instead deciding to drag Snow up for the Final Cut through the trash can - an exclamation point giving Show the win.
Al Snow was unsuccessful in his pursuit of the WWF Hardcore Championship, but the Big Show was dismissive of his victory. 'The Hardcore Giant' shoved the referee away from him before taking the title and raising it high. Only, Show did not realize that Rhyno was once again on his tail! 'The Man-Beast' stalked from the corner for the Gore, taking the 500-pounder off his feet! Only curiously, Rhyno didn't decide to cover. It was a message sent, and Show while struggling in pain on the canvas glared at 'the Man-Beast' in confusion. Rhyno had it out for the big man, though it was perplexing he didn't try to utilize the 24/7 rule himself after what Show did on SmackDown!
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William Regal remained sat in his office sipping tea, when there was a knock at the door. Standing to attention, the WWF Commissioner for last week was visited by Shane McMahon, who was wildly impressed with how he performed as the lawmaker of the World Wrestling Federation. Although the WWF European Champion had a tough time with it, he knew that William could only get better with the role, and noted he was looking for a permanent authority in charge. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' thanked Shane O'Mac for the opportunity, before regretting to hear about the challenge from Vince McMahon. Shane iterated he wasn't concerned about his father and that he could take him. Shane had been thinking about the state of the company, but wasn't as worried as he once was. Once WrestleMania was out of the way, he and William would be the ones calling the shots. With an arm around Regal, he congratulated him - the Englishman was now the WWF Commissioner! Delightedly, Regal thanked Shane for the opportunity with a two-handed handshake. Shane told him his hard work and petitioning had paid off - for the better. There was something he wanted, in Regal's first move as Commish however - he felt guilty for accusing Trish Stratus a few weeks ago. William told Shane not to worry anymore about it - Trish could go one-on-one against the WWF Women's Champion Ivory tonight! Shane chuckled, telling William he was excited to work with him. Regal had sucked up long and hard, and it had paid off!
We returned to a replay from what happened during the commercial break, where cameras caught up to Spike Dudley and Lita in catering as they went nose to nose! Spike aggressively told Lita that he didn't like her constant interference in the Hardy Boyz's business and warned her to back off tonight, because he wasn't afraid of punching a girl! Lita too refused to back down, challenging the Dudley Boy to try and make a swing at her. The Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz quickly showed up to calm the situation, but Jeff and Matt soon started pointing fingers and exchanging words with D-Von and Bubba Ray. Both teams wanted the WWF Tag Team Championships held by Edge and Christian - and tonight's match was sure to hold some serious title implications!
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Back live, Raven and Tori walked out to the stage to a loud fanfare of boos from the capacity crowd in Albany. Still in physical possession of the WWF Intercontinental Championship, the former champ waltzed sluggishly whilst his main squeeze Tori hobbled - surely lingering effects from Chris Jericho's Walls of Jericho ambush from SmackDown. The two pulled up a chair at ringside by Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler, who were quick to quiz Raven on the Astrodome Asylum match at WrestleMania, gone accepted by Chris Jericho on Sunday Night Heat last night. Raven told J.R. and 'the King' to stop talking to him. They were there scouting - they wanted to see what kind of fighter Y2J would be tonight.2) WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho def. Perry Saturn (w/The Radicalz) (4:29)Chris Jericho had it out for Raven, as their rivalry was sure to continue leading on from Y2J dethroning him of the WWF Intercontinental Championship back at No Way Out. Y2J was without his title, as it was stolen by Raven last week on RAW is WAR. Jericho came back to assault him on SmackDown, with an Astrodome Asylum match officially signed for WrestleMania. Raven watched from commentary, meeting eyes calmly with Jericho, who he planned to light a fire within in time for 'the Grandaddy of Them All'. It allowed Perry Saturn to jump him from behind and send him to the floor, where immediately Eddie Guerrero and Dean Malenko put the boots to him behind the referee's back! Saturn press slammed Jericho across the announce table before controlling back inside, a T-bone suplex and a diving elbow drop each getting near falls. Focusing on the shoulder, Jericho was quick to react and landed a springboard dropkick knocking Malenko off the apron! Saturn capitalized with a back suplex, before setting up for the fisherman suplex. Jericho fought free of it, when Saturn sent him into the ring post shoulder-first! Terri cheered Perry on as he scored a death valley driver, before sinking in the Rings of Saturn! Jericho however refused to lose, showing the fire Raven had hoped! Jericho turned it into a roll up, when a charging Malenko was sent head-first into Saturn's! 'Latino Heat' distracted the referee, when Saturn came from behind with a rolling clutch, which Jericho reversed into a roll-up of his own. He transitioned into the Walls of Jericho, forcing Saturn to tap!
Chris Jericho immediately bailed from the ring after the referee rang for the bell, as Eddie Guerrero and Dean Malenko were quick to hit the ring for a post-match beating! The WWF Intercontinental Champion smirked in response to the Radicalz from the floor, as an unimpressed Raven ranted to Tori about how Y2J had no backbone! It was enough for Jericho to jump him, leaping the announce table and landing on his WrestleMania rival! Raven was buried in right hands, when the Radicalz advanced on Jericho by the table! Raven and Tori escaped holding hands, with the title intact, as Jericho started fighting off Guerrero and Malenko! A back body drop sent Malenko, when Y2J scowled at Raven with ferocity in his eyes. Whatever the Astrodome Asylum match would entail, in thirteen days Raven had better watch out!
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Vince McMahon was seen exiting the Pepsi Arena, returning once again to his limousine. The Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation said to his driver that he had to get back and tend to Linda McMahon, when suddenly he was approached by daughter Stephanie McMahon. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' wanted to ask Dad about this situation involving Shane McMahon, and how a match at WrestleMania might possibly make things even worse. Vince accepted it would be the calm before the storm, but in the event of this calm, he was prepared for anything that might happen. Whether it is on April 1, or in the thirteen days between now and then, he was prepared for any risks that might happen. But Vince wanted to let Steph hear it from him: there was no affair. Steph immediately knew to trust Trish Stratus's word, when Vince warned her not to get too close to Trish - he'd heard bad things. Vince climbed into the limousine, but Steph questioned what he meant by that. Wheeling down the window, Vince told her it didn't matter. None of this really mattered - all he wanted her to know was that he loved her very much and cared deeply for his daughter: but what happened at WrestleMania needed to happen. Whatever happened to himself or Shane, he just hoped Stephanie would take his side on it. The limousine departed, leaving her puzzled.
A video package aired, taking us back to the historic site of RAW is WAR from last week. Complaining about losing another WWF Championship rematch, former champ Kurt Angle was shocked along with everybody else when faced with 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan. After a war of words with 'the Megastar', who mocked and derided the fame, patriotism and popularity of the Hulkster, Hogan challenged Kurt to a match of a lifetime at WrestleMania. In clips, Hulk had done it all in the sports entertainment industry. From birthing Hulkamania in Madison Square Garden, to being responsible for the success of early WrestleManias, the Hulkster had starred in movies, sold out gigantic stadiums such as Pontiac Silverdome and Toronto Skydome, and took the World Wrestling Federation global. At WrestleMania against the Olympic Gold Medalist, we would see if the Hulkster still had what it took to get the job done on the Grandest Stage of Them All. In thirteen days, it would be 'the Real American vs the American Hero!'
Back live in the dressing room, Kurt Angle could not believe his eyes. 'The Megastar' muttered to himself about the audacity of Hulk Hogan, and how self-absorbed he was. Michael Cole approached the Olympic Gold Medalist, wanting to get his thoughts about Chris Benoit ahead of their match tonight. Angle repeated what he said to Stephanie McMahon - he wasn't interested in 'the Rabid Wolverine' right now. All he was looking ahead at was Hulk Hogan. He knew Hulk Hogan thought he was underestimating him, but in actuality, it was the other way round. Kurt had been warned about how Hulk was a masterful politician, and his ego was on full show. He knew Hulk thought he was an easy payday, wanting to grab onto the legacy he once had: an easy win on 'the Grandaddy of Them All' was Hulk's big angle here. But he didn't know Kurt Angle, he was not to be underestimated either. He wasn't WWF Champion for 169 days for nothing, and come WrestleMania he planned to humiliate Hulk Hogan by making him tap out to the Ankle Lock in front of the whole world! Angle left, without even commenting about Benoit!
. 3) The Dudley Boyz (w/Spike Dudley) def. The Hardy Boyz (w/Lita) (5:34)Edge and Christian once again weaselled their way out of the triple threat tag team match on SmackDown to retain their WWF Tag Team Championships, but would find themselves driven through tables by the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz immediately afterward. Tonight, the Hardys and the Dudleys were set to square off again, with serious title implications in store for the winners. After their skirmish backstage earlier tonight, Lita and Spike Dudley were at each others throats at ringside, as Jeff and Matt Hardy hit the ring to clean house of D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley. Stereo dropkicks stunned Bubba allowing Poetry in Motion on D-Von, when Bubba took Jeff down hard with a clothesline. The Dudleys dictated Jeff's speed and quickness, cornering him away from Matt. The Dudleyville Device was set up just for Jeff to reverse into a victory roll, but when Jeff tried making the tag, he would instead encounter an explosive double flapjack!
Headlocks kept Jeff at bay, when finally he swung out with a spinout enzuigiri - bringing in his older brother! Matt hit hard with a side bulldog for D-Von, before a body slam and a diving leg drop from the second rope went broken by Bubba. The Bubba Bomb connected, when Jeff came off the top rope only for a missile dropkick to go blocked! The 3D was prepared, but Matt reversed into the Side Effect on Bubba! Jeff came in with the jawbreaker for D-Von, directly into the Twist of Fate! Jeff went up for the Swanton Bomb, but Spike grabbed hold of his foot! Lita dragged Spike down from the apron and tackled the runt to the floor, causing the referee to go out to break it up! As Jeff hit the Swanton Bomb however, down the rampway came Edge and Christian! Armed with steel chairs, the WWF Tag Team Champions left Matt laying with a brutal headshot, when the Conchairto incapacitated Jeff! E&C strategically fled the scene, leaving D-Von to crawl over to pick up the win for the Dudleys!
The WWF Tag Team Champions had helped their rivals the Dudley Boyz pick up the win tonight against the Hardy Boyz, but their meddling soon made sense as Edge and Christian re-entered the ring to continue the attack! The Canadians swung their steel chairs over the spine of Bubba Ray, before delivering another Conchairto to the skull of D-Von! They weren't yet finished, out for revenge after being driven through tables themselves last Thursday night on SmackDown. Edge and Christian retrieved the table, but before being able to use it, Spike Dudley and Lita united dove at the champs with right hands! E&C fled up the rampway, as Spike and Lita continued to bicker amongst themselves. The Hardys and the Dudleys remained rivals, and each team wanting Edge and Christian's titles!
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Chris Benoit was backstage warming up for his match with Kurt Angle, when approached by Jonathan Coachman. The Coach wanted to get 'the Rabid Wolverine's thoughts about his former leader of the Coalition, to which Benoit groaned upon hearing. The history between himself and 'the Megastar' had been building for a long time, acknowledging how it went back to when Angle thought he was in charge of the Coalition, and was the WWF Champion. Benoit did his bidding, biding his time - but now, he was a lone wolf. Benoit didn't care for Hulk Hogan, nor did he care for whatever his dumbass girlfriend Stephanie McMahon's family was doing. As the best technical wrestler in the world, he planned to show up 'the American Hero' tonight. The Undertaker ominously came walking by, met with a glare from Benoit following their awkward altercation backstage on SmackDown. 'The American Badass' lowered his sunglasses and instead turned to Coach: he could find a lot more interesting interview subjects than the man that tapped like a b*tch to The Rock last week. 'The Deadman' left coldly, leaving Benoit seething with rage. Benoit would get to take out his frustration on Angle - up next!
Back from the commercial break, 'the Rabid Wolverine' maintained an expertly applied cross-armbreaker on the former WWF Champion, with Kurt Angle struggling to break the hold. 'The Megastar' reached for the rope before mustering the fight to roll Benoit up for a near fall, only for Chris Benoit to reapply the pressure. Somehow, Angle found the ability to use all of his strength to hoist Benoit up for a powerbomb, to finally free his injured shoulder! Angle threw haymakers Benoit's way, before setting him up on the top rope. Both men fought, with Angle looking for a superplex just to be headbutted down! Angle rolled backwards, only to rush up with a belly-to-belly suplex off the top rope! Angle was energized in spite of his arm, the Albany crowd actually in support of the Olympian tonight! Angle looked for a German suplex when Benoit hit a drop toe hold, looking for the Crossface just for Angle to get his foot on the bottom rope. 'The American Hero' groggily got up and missed a swing, Benoit capitalizing with three German suplexes in sequence! Preparing the Diving Headbutt, Benoit went up to the top rope, only for Angle to roll out of the way at the last second! Angle mockingly hulked up as he heard the adulation of the crowd, going for the Angle Slam only for Benoit to sunset flip his way out of it. With his hand gripping the ropes, Benoit was able to steal a huge upset!
Chris Benoit had pulled off a big win tonight on RAW is WAR, much to the humility of 'the Megastar!' 'The Rabid Wolverine' celebrated the victory with a huge smirk on his face, knowingly in the face of Kurt Angle. The former WWF Champion remained seated in the ring, furious at the decision. Contesting it with the referee who declared it final, Angle knew that he was off his game, and it cost him big thirteen days away from WrestleMania! With a humiliating upset loss tonight to the pleased Canadian, Kurt Angle had to get refocused in time for his match with Hulk Hogan in Reliant Astrodome.
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Trish Stratus was speaking with Stephanie McMahon in the Divas locker room, as Trish was geared up and ready to challenge WWF Women's Champion Ivory in just a few moments. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' dwelled on what Vince McMahon had said to her in the parking lot tonight, that she really wasn't sure what her Daddy meant saying Trish Stratus was not to be trusted. Trish didn't know what Steph or Vince was talking about. All that Steph could be assured of was the fact that there was no affair, and she couldn't even remember the last time they had been in the same room as each other. Steph pondered the thought, as Trish shifted gears and told her one thing - she did know she wanted the WWF Women's Championship, and by beating Ivory and sticking up for Chyna tonight: it would surely put her in line for a title shot. Steph apologized for distracting Trish in preparation, but a hug led to Trish suggesting that the Right to Censor were in for some Stratusfaction, once she got her hands all over Ivory. Stephanie watched Trish leave for battle - women's non-title action was coming up!
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Bradshaw walked the backstage area of the Pepsi Arena before dropping the cigar out of his mouth. Coming to a halt, the Texan could see that a crew of backstage assistants were deconstructing the APA's office! Immediately storming over and taking the wooden round poker table from two staff members, he demanded to know what the hell they were doing! They could not answer honestly, only saying it was what they were ordered to do by WWF Commissioner William Regal. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' merrily showed up on cue, grinning at Bradshaw. The mean Texan angrily got in Regal's face, just to be warned about laying his hands on the newest lawmaker that the World Wrestling Federation had to offer.
Bradshaw demanded an explanation, to which Regal explained that the WWF was a place of business, not one for dealing in shady goings on, getting drunk with mates backstage and illegally gambling. It wasn't professional at a sporting event, so he took the liberty of removing the problem. Bradshaw chuckled, knowing what Regal's motive truly was. It was all about showing the Commissioner respect, but warned him that it wouldn't change his opinion of him. He was still a horse's ass who held no superiority over him. William tutted, telling Bradshaw that was a shame. Regardless, in the mean time he could kiss goodbye to the APA's Office - tonight he was cleared to wrestle in another handicap match. This time with X-Factor! Bradshaw groaned, warning Regal not to p*ss him off any further. Regal didn't appear to care, and obnoxiously entered through the APA's wooden door and closed it.
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We returned to the arena where WWF Women's Champion Ivory came out protesting with a microphone in hand. With Steven Richards getting ready for the Lumberjack match with 'the One' Billy Gunn, Mark Henry accompanied 'the Role Model' as she continued to claim Chyna had no idea what she was in for come WrestleMania. Ivory believed that she was 'the Tenth Wonder of the World', and had proved just how dangerous she could be as WWF Women's Champion, by not only beating 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' twice in the past, but by injuring her both times as well! The crowd despised the Right to Censor, as Mark applauded his colleague, who claimed to be unbeaten - and that wouldn't change. Tonight, Trish Stratus slipped her hands down one McMahon's pants to receive a non-title shot at her, actions that would not be tolerated by the RTC. This was her women's division, a credible one, and she was the ruling champion. Finally and mercifully, Trish Stratus came bounding down the rampway to a loud ovation.5) WWF Women's Champion Ivory (w/Mark Henry) def. Trish Stratus (2:49)It was confirmed by 'the One' Billy Gunn last night on Sunday Night Heat that Chyna was in fact in training for WrestleMania, and that the WWF Women's Championship match would still be going ahead. It drew the ire of Ivory, who had been declaring herself 'the Tenth Wonder of the World', and claiming responsibility for 'the Ninth Wonder of the World's plaguing injuries. Shane McMahon had new WWF Commissioner William Regal make this match official earlier tonight, a make-good for implicating Trish as the WWF Diva Vince McMahon had been having an affair with! Trish was fired up, wanting the title, immediately outwrestling Ivory with a series of armdrags. A dropkick took her down, but the veteran champ was able to sneak her way into control with an eye rake. A snapmare took Trish down, when Ivory started slamming her face first into the canvas repeatedly! Ivory was livid and talked trash to Chyna, who was sure to be watching from home. It allowed Trish to come back with a series of clotheslines, when 'the Secret Weapon' Mark Henry provided the distraction. A jawbreaker gave Ivory control again, stomping Trish and choking her with her boot in the corner. Over the bottom rope Ivory rubbed her boot over Trish's head, when a chinlock saw Trish fight back again! A suplex gave Trish a near fall, when Ivory got her foot on the bottom rope. Setting up for the bulldog, Ivory was able to break out, and a swift DDT gave the WWF Women's Champion the three count!
Ivory celebrated her victory with her fists raised, albeit with some assistance from 'the Secret Weapon' at ringside. Mark Henry plodded into the ring, handing 'the Role Model' her WWF Women's Championship. Ivory continued to talk trash to Chyna, believing 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' to be scouting her every move from the comfort of her own home. The self-proclaimed 'Tenth Wonder of the World' gave Mark Henry instructions to big splash poor Trish Stratus, when Test suddenly hit the ring! The former client of the business strategist was coming to her aid, immediately coming face to face with the 400-pounder. Ivory suggested they leave, and Henry fiercely glared Test down in departing!
The Right to Censor left Test to attend to Trish Stratus, when suddenly Albert came stomping down the rampway, passing shoulders with Ivory and Mark Henry! 'The Freight Train' lined Test up, before scoring with a massive bicycle kick to his former partner! T&A was over and done with, as Albert made clear in powering Test up with the Baldo Bomb. Trish Stratus knelt in the corner in confusion, when 'Baldo' appeared to put the moves on attending to Trish himself. Instead, Stratus rolled out of the ring and left on her own. As the bad blood continued between Test and Albert, both men appeared to have feelings for Trish - yet she wanted no part of either of them!
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Chris Benoit was seen tearing the wrist tape off, as he navigated the backstage area. Entering the dressing room however, it was the Undertaker who was sat there already waiting for him! Wearing his shades, bandana and fingerless gloves, 'the American Badass' smirked as he came to his feet. 'The Rabid Wolverine' was not pleased to see him, telling him about the cute stunt he pulled with Jonathan Coachman earlier tonight. He knew all about 'the Deadman's routine. Sure, he had been around for a decade of destruction, but that sure as hell didn't mean he had Benoit's respect. 'The Deadman' simply smirked down at the Canadian, telling him he had watched him for months. They'd been meaning to have a chat since he and his little buddies the Radicalz arrived. The thing about Undertaker is he never saw this demented, dangerous, submission machine that everybody should fear. He's not some 'Wolverine Crippler', he's just some punk ass treading dirt in 'the Deadman's yard. If he didn't respect him that was fine, but if he ever talked to him like he did on SmackDown last Thursday - he'd sure as hell pay the price. Undertaker left the room surlily, leaving Benoit be.
We returned to RAW is WAR to see an exterior shot of the WWF Champion The Rock's dressing room door. On a night where 'the People's Champ' was to meet his WrestleMania opponent Stone Cold Steve Austin in the middle of the ring, and sign the contract for what could potentially be the biggest match in WrestleMania history, both men were eerily silent! Who knew what could have been running through 'the Great One's mind ahead of meeting 'the Texas Rattlesnake' in the ring tonight.
. 6) X-Factor def. Bradshaw (3:29)The new WWF Commissioner William Regal had a bone to pick with the APA co-founder Bradshaw. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' still had it out for the Texan after he had not only disrespected the WWF European Champion last week, but also scolded his bare legs by spilling his hot teapot over him. The Englishman forced Bradshaw into handicap action against the Radicalz on SmackDown last week, and tonight had a backstage team of assistants confiscate the APA's own office! WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac led the pack of Lance Storm and Justin Credible to the ring tonight, where Bradshaw was eager to take them down one by one. A powerslam caught Credible off the top rope, while Storm wound up the recipient of an easy fallaway slam! X-Pac immediately struck from behind, only to get decked, when all three teamed up to put the boots to the Texan. Storm and Credible restrained Bradshaw for the Bronco Buster from the leader, before Bradshaw surprised Storm reversing a hurricanrana into a powerbomb! X-Pac was grabbed by the hair and drilled with the Clothesline From Hell, when Storm and Credible delivered a double Impaler DDT to Bradshaw, picking up the win for X-Factor!
X-Factor had carried out WWF Commissioner William Regal's bidding for the night, making a statement in this handicap victory against Bradshaw. The WWF European Champion enjoyed seeing the Texan laying prone in the middle of the ring from the comfort of his office backstage, while inside the ring WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac had Lance Storm and Justin Credible set Bradshaw up for the X-Factor! The trio cockily stood tall, when Triple H came storming down the rampway!
Fired up after being jumped by Shawn Michaels disguised as a photographer on SmackDown, 'the Cerebral Assassin' was not yet finished with X-Factor! Throwing down his leather jacket, the sledgehammer-gripped Triple H hit the ring, with a shot to the gut of Credible! Storm jumped 'the Game', only to wind up struck in the face with the deadly weapon! X-Pac tried jumping from behind next, and aimed with the title belt in hand - only to walk right into the Pedigree! Triple H growled over the fallen trio, his sights firmly set on the former friend he'll meet at WrestleMania. Hunter wanted 'the Heartbreak Kid', and was here to prove he was ready for anything!
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We cut to the backstage area where 'the One' Billy Gunn walked with a purpose. With an army behind him, Billy had waited weeks for this opportunity. He wanted to get even with the Right to Censor on behalf of his girlfriend 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' Chyna, for everything they had carried out with over the past year! The lumberjacks that fired Billy up in his path were ready, and Gunn was ready to go off on Steven Richards - up next!
We returned to a replay of what just happened before the commercial break. In a pit of rage after being surprised by Shawn Michaels disguised as a ringside photographer last week on SmackDown, Triple H sent a message to 'the Heartbreak Kid' - leaving X-Factor laying with the use of a sledgehammer, after they had just done a number on Bradshaw. Back live, Triple H was seen with leather jacket and sledgehammer in hand, coming through the curtain to be confronted by WWF Commissioner William Regal. The WWF European Champion was disgusted by the actions of 'the Game, furious at him for getting involved where he had no business. Triple H suggested 'the Goodwill Ambassador' back off, he didn't have time for him. The Englishman was unnerved by 'the Cerebral Assassin', telling him that if he had any shot of getting in the same place with Shawn Michaels ahead of WrestleMania - he can bugger off. Barging past him, 'the Game' walked away when Regal blurted out the possibility that HBK beats him at WrestleMania. Immediately stomping back, threatening that if Regal couldn't get Shawn to face him man to man, maybe he'd have to find a new target. Suddenly, Triple H punched the Commissioner and walked away!
. 7) Billy Gunn def. Steven Richards in a Lumberjack match (4:11)It had been weeks in the making as far as 'the One' Billy Gunn was concerned. For having the Right to Censor invade the World Wrestling Federation last year was one thing, but the constant beatdowns, the injuries sustained to his girlfriend Chyna, and for laying out beating after beating on much of the WWF locker room in recent weeks - Steven Richards had to pay. Billy was accompanied by Al Snow, the Fighting Holly Cousins, Kaientai, Too Cool, Steve Blackman and Test to ringside for this Lumberjack match, whilst Steven had the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan, Mark Henry, WWF Women's Champion Ivory, Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn, Dean Malenko, Albert, Tazz and Essa Rios behind him.
As the bell sounded, Steven tried hard to duck out of the ring only to be prevented by Billy's lumberjacks. Getting his hands on him, Billy hammered him with ten punches in the corner, before delivering a big back body drop off the ropes! The Right to Censor successfully got their leader to the floor, when Billy decided to dare go outside for a fight! The RTC's lumberjacks jumped him, causing a massive brawl around the ringside area! In the process, Mark Henry was able to roll Steven back inside. It gave Steven time to take control, mounting Billy with rights and lefts. Richards was cowardly but egotistical on offense, screaming to Billy that this match was a terrible idea. Steven decided to give Billy ten punches in the corner, when Billy reversed with an inverted atomic drop and a dropkick! Billy scored with the jackhammer for a near fall, when Ivory distracted the official! The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan entered, when lumberjacks filled the ring cleaning house! Another brawl had escalated, when Billy scored with the One and Only on Steven for the win!
The carnage continued despite the bell sounding, as 'the One' Billy Gunn stood tall over the fallen Steven Richards. The Right to Censor struck, with Mark Henry leading the pound of the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and WWF Women's Champion Ivory. 'The Secret Weapon' took dominance after Billy attempted to fight back, when all of a sudden Chyna came stomping out to the stage in a neck brace! 'The Ninth Wonder of the World' glared right at 'the Role Model' inside, surveying the scene. As the lumberjacks would rid the ring of the RTC, Ivory ducked and ran for cover. All the while, Chyna climbed into the ring to help her boyfriend up from the rubble! As the RTC were outnumbered by the lumberjacks and Chyna, she raised Billy's hand in victory in the ring - all the while marking her territory. Chyna was going to WrestleMania, much to the dire chagrin of the champ Ivory!
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We returned to the backstage area, where this time the locker room door of Stone Cold Steve Austin's remained closed. The contract signing was coming up next, and we hadn't heard a whisper from either 'the Texas Rattlesnake' or the WWF Champion The Rock! Cameras cut to Shane McMahon leaving his office, as he planned to cover an incapacitated WWF Commissioner William Regal. Who knew what would happen, as the official WrestleMania contract signing between 'the Rattlesnake' and 'the People's Champ' was coming up next!
We returned to RAW is WAR to see Shane McMahon making his way down to the ring for the second time tonight. After being challenged by his father Vince McMahon to a match at WrestleMania, Shane O'Mac did not appear intimidated by the Chairman. Strutting to the ring with a cocky swagger, he smirked to the booing faces of the capacity crowd. Shane took to the microphone as he stood in front of the table in the centre of the ring. With a contract laying on its surface behind him, Shane started by saying he did not condone the actions of what Triple H did to the new WWF Commissioner William Regal moments ago. Alas, he was standing in for 'the Goodwill Ambassador's genius decision. WrestleMania was thirteen days away, it was 'the Grandaddy of Them All' - the Super Bowl of sports entertainment! Which was why it was so important they finally get this "baby" signed. It was 'the Showcase of the Immortals' this year for real, as not only would Shane O'Mac put down his old man Vince McMahon once and for all - but The Rock would put the WWF Championship on the line against the 2001 Royal Rumble winner, Stone Cold Steve Austin! The crowd booed Shane's egotism, when Shane recapped the lengths these two pillars of the World Wrestling Federation had gone to over the course of their respective careers. Two years ago, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' beat 'the Brahma Bull', but it was all thanks to his Dad's attempted conspiracies against Austin.
This year, there would be no such happening, not after the shape he would leave the Chairman in following their match. It was sure to be Austin and Rock all alone, in that ring with a referee, with the title on the line...and he couldn't wait more than anybody for the two of them to tear each other apart in the Astrodome! Shane demanded Albany give a big ovation to the challengers, introducing Stone Cold Steve Austin! 'The Texas Rattlesnake' walked out to the ring with purpose, not wasting any time in stomping across the ring and saluting the New York crowd at every corner. 'The Rattlesnake' soon came face to face with Shane, no love lost between the two, as Shane started to explain what this contract signing was all about. Austin snatched the microphone and told him to shut up. Two years or not, with or without McMahon's interference, there was only one way business was going to go in Houston - and that was Stone Cold once again becoming WWF Champion! The fans retorted "hell yeah" to Austin's request, when Stone Cold talked about how it had been two years - a hell of a lot of things had changed in that time. Rock went on to become the top guy the business had to offer. Six-time WWF Champion, a next big star in Hollywood - but he still ain't ever beaten 'the Rattlesnake!' Shane suggested that time could change that, reminding him of the intensive neck surgery and rehabilitation he had gone under. Austin called Shane a "jackass", telling him he had all of the marks to remind him of it each and every day!
Shane responded telling Steve that he didn't understand the levity of this situation. Fifteen months after being ran down by Shawn Michaels, Stone Cold Steve Austin surely had to be questioning his abilities. Could Austin afford to bare the possibility that the Rock might beat him in his home state of Texas? Stone Cold warned Shane McMahon again not to p*ss him off, because if there was one thing he had been training for longer than anybody could ever know, it was WrestleMania. He's beaten everybody there is, dumped twenty-nine sons of b*tches out of the Royal Rumble to take this opportunity, and now he was ready to raise some hell and beat Rock's ass one more time! Finally The Rock came out to a big ovation, the WWF Champion surveying the scene in the ring ahead of him. 'The People's Champ' joined the party in the ring, immediately forcing Shane O'Mac out of his spotlight. Face to face with Austin, the place became unglued for Rock and Austin to stand toe-to-toe. Taking Shane's mic from him, 'the Brahma Bull' explained he knew this situation all too well - he and Austin went back a whole lot longer than WrestleMania XV. This went back to his first day as a WWF Superstar at the 1996 Survivor Series. Rookie Rock didn't know what to do with himself, when he heard that raspy Texan voice: telling him he still had a way to go to be a star in this business. Rock proposed the times were matter of fact, a changing. Austin might not be the same, or perhaps it is the Rock that might not be the same. Rock could have gotten better, while Steve may have gotten weaker. Visa versa, it didn't matter, because the Rock wanted to make it incredibly clear to Stone Cold that no matter what happened at WrestleMania, it would be a matter of pride, but also a battle of who wanted the title more - who wanted to lead the WWF by storm, and there could only be one!
'The Texas Rattlesnake' listened as Rock made it importantly clear just how many times he had woken up in a cold sweat in the middle of the night, still reeling over failing to beat Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania two years ago. It would not happen again in thirteen days, because finally the Rock would beat his bald-headed, double-studded candyass on 'the Grandest Stage of Them All'. Stone Cold chuckled, telling Rock he appreciated him coming out and giving him the benefit of the doubt. With all due respect, Austin made it be known to Rock that he had scratched and clawed at every step of the way to climb to the top of the mountain. He knew what it was like to be in the Rock's shoes. He knew all too well Rock was feeling it too. When the chips are down, neither man is going to fold. There was no backing down, no losing until one man had absolutely nothing left. When he was stomping a mudhole in Rock's ass, he knew Rock would try and lay the SmackDown on his ass in retaliation. And it would go back and forth until one man could no longer stand, no more. But Austin had to tell Rock that the bottom line was this: he had to beat 'the Great One' more than he could ever imagine. Rock swiftly raised and eyebrow and responded, he too needed to beat Austin more than anything.
The Rock nodded, then turned to acquire the contract on the table. But before the champ could sign the paper, Austin snatched the clipboard from him! Passively slamming pen to paper, Austin shoved it deep into Rock's chest. The tension was rising, as Rock branded his signature on the contract before forcing it back into Austin's chest! Albany was set to implode, as Rock and Austin looked at one another knowingly, before erupted in a cavalcade of right hands! Fists started flying, with neither man choosing to back down! Shane McMahon decided to back away from the escalating rampage in front of him, as the fight saw the table flipped over! Rock let Steve have it with a series of right hands in the corner, when Austin cut 'the Brahma Bull's theatrical show off and started stomping a mudhole in Rock! Shane O'Mac finally decided to try and intervene, only to be dropped with a Stunner by 'the Texas Rattlesnake!' Austin flipped Shane off, only to walk right into the Rock Bottom from 'the People's Champ!' Stone Cold saw it coming however, able to elbow his way out before attempting a Stunner for Rock - just for the WWF Champion to slip out of the ring! Rock talked trash to Austin, who welcomed the champ to Just Bring It. Rock laughed in Austin's face, neither man able to gain an advantage. WrestleMania was thirteen days away, but the match was signed - for the biggest match in World Wrestling Federation history! |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 20, 2021 20:44:56 GMT -5
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Post by DTP. on Mar 22, 2021 21:59:30 GMT -5
SmackDown! - March 22, 2001
Providence Civic Center in Providence, Rhode Island
Broadcast on UPN
Taped on March 20, 2001
A video package aired, taking us back to RAW is WAR. The contract signing for what potential to be not just the biggest match in World Wrestling Federation history, but the most explosive match as well, ended in a stalemate. Shane McMahon gathered the WWF Champion The Rock, and the 2001 Royal Rumble winner Stone Cold Steve Austin to put pen to paper and sign the contract. The two exchanged some harsh truths and potentials about 'the Grandaddy of Them All', and how neither man would back down and let the other take control until there was nothing left. Neither man could afford to lose at WrestleMania, with the WWF Championship on the line. Rock went to sign the paper only for Austin to snatch it away from him. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' signed it, then shoved it into Rock's chest. 'The People's Champ' then signed it, forcing it back into Austin's chest. Stone Cold and Rock went face to face, coming to sudden blows when Shane O'Mac tried to intervene! Austin laid him out with the Stunner, when the Rock Bottom was attempted - but blocked. Austin tried giving Rock the Stunner, but the WWF Champion was quick enough to make a getaway. Both men laughed about it - but both men knew that destiny or tragedy awaited, come WrestleMania!
The opening video package aired, bringing us to the Providence Civic Center for SmackDown! Pyrotechnics erupted in the rafters overlooking the ring, as a rowdy crowd stood to attention in Providence, Rhode Island! We were ten days away from WrestleMania, and Michael Cole alongside Tazz welcomed us to the show. Tonight, we were in for a star-studded night, as Hulk Hogan would be making his first ever appearance on SmackDown tonight! Plus, after leaving the new WWF Commissioner William Regal laying on RAW is WAR, Triple H would meet the WWF European Champion, one-on-one. Then, in a blockbuster main event, the two men that would headline WrestleMania would be forced to coexist by Shane O'Mac - WWF Champion The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin would team up to battle the WWF Tag Team Champions, Edge and Christian!
Shane McMahon calmly wandered out to the ring to a loud chorus of boos from the people in Providence. Three nights ago on RAW is WAR, Shane was not only left laying in the Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin's skirmish with a Stone Cold Stunner, but he was challenged and threatened by his own father Vince McMahon - to a match in ten days at WrestleMania. Shane ignored the Rhode Island crowd in taking to the microphone, requesting that everybody ignore what happened with Stone Cold Steve Austin last Monday night. This wasn't about The Rock and Austin, but instead about the end of the line between his relationship with his father, as they both knew it. Shane claimed Vince McMahon was always a polarizing figure, dating back as far as his infancy. They had always shared disagreements, problems in the McMahon Family hierarchy - but time and time again, it would merely blow over. Shane was not afraid to admit just how hard it was to get along with his Dad, but he just knew it was how his father worked. Vince lived for this business, and that would surely never change. Then, once Shane came to be the man he was today, he wanted to take charge. He could see the wonders Vince was doing with running the sports entertainment business he lived and breathed, apparently over everything else. For his entire youth, he was taught how he would once day take the WWF by charge - which is exactly what he did when his old man went home to Greenwich last summer. He left the company high and dry, in the hands of an imbecile like Mick Foley. What Shane chose to do was take charge, and charge he took.
Suddenly, once Vince decided to come back to work, Shane's actions weren't acceptable any longer. Now, they both awaited for 'the Grandaddy of Them All' - Vincent Kennedy McMahon's own creation. The time for fixing problems, mending fences and putting out fires were over now. There was no turning back. The problem was, all he wanted for his father to do was to look him in the eye and tell him the truth. Why couldn't Shane O'Mac, the product of his semen, lead the WWF? Why was Vince able to hog the spotlight, galavant with show business, and be forever an untouched idol never to be replicated. Shane admitted how hard he had worked for all of his life, believing himself to be the heir to the throne, only Vince never gave him the opportunity, nor the respect! In his eyes, the WWF was his playground, a home away away from home. While himself and sister Stephanie McMahon spent hour after hour, day after day, year after year waiting for Daddy to come home, they went neglected and used for Vince's company's gain. Vince was bringing home all of the fame, fortune, money and power. Why couldn't Shane? So Shane decided to do exactly what Vince McMahon did years ago. What he did to his father Vince Sr, what Vince Sr did to Jess McMahon. And now Shane could not wait until WrestleMania, because he would let his father have it for exploiting his children for all of their lives!
Stephanie McMahon interrupted her brother, walking out to the ring with a frown on her face. 'The Billion Dollar Princess' had a choice conversation with her father on RAW is WAR, and now appeared to be dismissive of everything her brother had to say about him! Shane suggested Steph back off, that this didn't involve her. Instead, the girlfriend of Kurt Angle took the microphone from her brother and told Shane how time after time, how sick and tired she was of putting up with the things out of his and Daddy's mouths. For so long, she tried to rationalize the things that their family was saying to each other, for the whole world to hear no less! She questioned how it was all worthwhile. In her eyes, Shane should be thankful for the fact Dad brought him into this business, and that this industry would one day be his - but for now, in actuality, it was all of theirs. When Vince spoke of the McMahon Family Empire - that was them too! It was all of the McMahons. Shane couldn't believe the words out of Stephanie's mouth: Dad had corrupted her, brainwashed her! It made him wonder how many times he had exploited Mom. Shane couldn't understand why Steph couldn't see the type of man Vince was. He may not have hooked up with Steph's new best buddy Trish Stratus, but how would that explain the tens, probably hundreds of times he had flaunted his affairs with other women? Shane was on a tangent, when Stephanie suddenly slapped Shane, knocking him against the ropes! Stephanie fiercely told Shane that she was had it with him putting thoughts into her head. Steph was done with all of this - at WrestleMania, she hoped Dad would kick his ungrateful ass in front of the entire world! Stephanie dropped the mic and left the ring in a hurry, leaving Shane gracing his cheek, in a state of surprise and shock!
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Backstage, Hulk Hogan was seen arriving at the Providence Civic Center, immediately approached by paparazzi! The Hulkster was pestered for the questions of the media, with photographers snapping shots continuously. With ten days remaining until 'the Real American vs the American Hero', what would 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan have to say for his WrestleMania opponent, Kurt Angle? We would find out tonight!
The new WWF Commissioner William Regal continued to hold a tissue to his nose, days after the right hand backstage given to him by Triple H. In wandered Jonathan Coachman, who was immediately shut down by the WWF European Champion. The Coach was rude to simply barge into his office, and wanted to know the meaning of this. Coach simply wanted to get the thoughts that Regal had for Bradshaw - what did he have against him? Regal said that the Texan didn't show the proper respect, and the way Coach was going, he was about to be met with the same treatment! 'The Goodwill Ambassador' was in a foul mood, talking about how he was punched out by 'the Game' on Monday night, which is why he made the match for tonight. He was going to make a bloody example out of 'the Cerebral Assassin', that everybody in the World Wrestling Federation had to learn to respect him or find out the hard way. Cold-cocking him was an offense, and Hunter was lucky he didn't lose his WrestleMania match with Shawn Michaels outright. Hunter could think he had an English gentleman like him right where he wanted him, but as civilized and gentile as he could be, he was also a rude, mean and gritty fighter in his own right. Tonight, Triple H would regret messing with 'the Blackpool Brawler'. Regal ordered Coach to get out, and he complied.
. 1) Bradshaw and Too Cool def. X-Factor (4:13)As WWF Commissioner William Regal geared for battle against Triple H tonight, Bradshaw had an evened chance at revenge for the beating received by X-Factor last Monday night. The WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac and his boys Lance Storm and Justin Credible were still feeling the effects of 'the Game's sledgehammer beating, when faced with an emerging Too Cool and Bradshaw. Scotty 2 Hotty and Grandmaster Sexay joined the Texan in hammering it out with the trio, causing X-Factor to bail early. Scotty and Sexay started dancing to Providence's delight, while Bradshaw left to bring the fight to X-Pac! Storm and Credible double-teamed him on the floor, just to be hit by baseball slides from Too Cool. Bradshaw took down Storm with a fallaway slam for a near fall, when Sexay danced his way in with a missile dropkick! A double hiptoss connected on the Canadian, when a dropkick to the knee of Scotty gave Credible the tag. X-Factor began slapping him around, mocking Bradshaw causing him to come in. With the referee subdued, Credible came in with an illegal backbreaker. A seated abdominal stretch from Justin went applied, when Scotty fought out to tag in Sexay! He ran wild on Justin before a leg lariat from Storm cut him off. A back suplex was reversed into a neckbreaker, allowing Sexay to kip up - tagging in Bradshaw! The big man ran wild on all three, pounding on X-Pac in the corner. A double superkick from Storm and Credible prevented a powerbomb, when Too Cool returned. Scotty was made legal as Bradshaw hammered Credible by the barricade. X-Pac combated Scotty and went for a roundhouse kick, when Scotty scored a legsweep into a rolling crutch pin at the legs - getting the win!
X-Pac was livid with the loss, while Scotty 2 Hotty and Grandmaster Sexay celebrated the victory pulled off for their team! Bradshaw continued to hammer Justin Credible at ringside, as Lance Storm tried to attend to a fallen X-Pac. It had not been a good week for X-Factor, between tonight's loss and the sledgehammer beating handed out by Triple H on RAW is WAR! Scotty executed the Worm to the crowd's delight, having successfully pinned the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion here tonight!
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Much like on RAW, Spike Dudley and Lita were seen arguing in the hallway. Spike reiterated that the Dudley Boyz won on their own last Monday night, that it wasn't D-Von or Bubba Ray Dudley's fault for Edge and Christian getting involved! Lita told Spike that she was sick of him coming after her, believing she could take him. Spike gawked, calling Lita "just some dumb girl". Lita replied, she was a kick that could kick his ass. Spike reiterated that he wasn't afraid to lay a finger on her, knowing that she was quivering just thinking about taking him on. He was from Dudleyville! Lita swung for Spike just for him to scarper, leaving him to ask if the WWF Diva wanted to do it tonight - she was on! Lita wasn't holding back but was restrained by two referees, promising to kick his ass!
The WWF Women's Champion Ivory was with Steven Richards in the Right to Censor's locker room. Still in disbelief at the return of Chyna despite her collapse in the middle of the ring last week, 'the Role Model' insinuated that 'the Ninth Wonder fo the World' would regret ever coming back. They were the RTC, and she was 'the Tenth Wonder of the World'; the most dangerous WWF Women's Champion in the division's history. Rounding up the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and the Goodfather, she told each of them how important this next few weeks were: WrestleMania was coming up, and they didn't know what the RTC's role would be. Nobody knew if they would have a match, but they must have a presence. They had to issue a statement to the other WWF Superstars that mocked them, overshadowed them, and underestimated them, because the RTC was not about to be beaten by the scoundrels that the World Wrestling Federation had to offer. Bull and Goodfather cheered in salute of Ivory, while Mark Henry politely applauded for 'the Role Model'. What was their plan?
. 2) Lita (w/The Hardy Boyz) vs Spike Dudley (w/The Dudley Boyz) ended in a no contest (2:11)It had been a few weeks in the making for Lita and Spike Dudley. As the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz continued their avid pursuit of the WWF Tag Team Championships, they too had developed a personal rivalry. Edge and Christian got involved in a physical way in the Hardys' and Dudleys' match on RAW is WAR, using steel chairs on all four men only to be chased away by the advancing frenemies of sorts, Lita and Spike. From the get-go, Lita ducked Spike's right hand and proceeded to kick and punch at Spike. Lita sent Spike into the ropes to receive a spinning headscissors, followed by an armdrag while at ringside tensions flated between the Hardys and the Dudleys! Lita climbed to the middle rope for ten punches only to receive an inverted atomic drop, followed by a body slam from Spike. Now to the top rope, Spike soared and missed a diving elbow drop, allowing Lita to make a return with the flying headscissors from the top rope! Bubba Ray soon got on the apron and grabbed the redhead by the hair, threatening D-Von to get the tables! Lita tried to free herself, when the Hardys were able to drag him down to the floor! The fight was on at ringside, whilst inside the ring Spike scored with a hurricanrana, before setting up the Dudley Dog! At ringside Jeff secured a ladder from underneath the ring and battery rammed into D-Von and Bubba, when Spike soared off the top rope with a splash onto the Hardys!
Spike Dudley had sacrificed his body to put down the Hardy Boyz at ringside, as they hoped to use a ladder against his brothers the Dudley Boyz! Spike was down on top of the carnage of Matt and Jeff Hardy, when Lita came out of nowhere with a suicide dive through the ropes onto D-Von and Bubba Ray! Out came Edge and Christian, the WWF Tag Team Champions immediately hammering on Spike and tossing him into the ring from the ringside floor! Once again armed with steel chairs, the Canadians similarly had a massive meeting tonight with WWF Champion The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin.
They looked to have bigger fish to fry here, setting Spike up for the Conchairto when Lita came from behind with a low blow for both Edge and Christian! The Hardy Boyz followed up with stereo dropkicks for the WWF Tag Team Champions, sending them packing from the ring. Team Xtreme stood tall when the Dudley Boyz came from behind, nailing both men with the ladder they had introduced moments prior! Lita, Jeff and Matt Hardy were down, while the Dudley Boyz helped Spike Dudley back to his feet. The Dudleys had their sights set on Edge and Christian!
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Kurt Angle was sat on the couch in his dressing, an arm wrapped around Stephanie McMahon. 'The American Hero' was telling his girlfriend all there was to know about his pent-up frustrations. In denial, he said that he did not lose to Chris Benoit on RAW is WAR, nor was Hulk Hogan in his head. He was simply doing what any real athlete does, and was focused on the match at WrestleMania. Of course 'the Rabid Wolverine' would cheat his way to victory, over the former WWF Champion! Stephanie told Kurt that it was okay and held him, but asserted that he did lose - everybody watching saw it. Steph hoped to talk about the audacity of her brother Shane McMahon, but Kurt continued to dwell. 'The Bllion Dollar Princess' wished Shane would see the real world for a change, and strongly believed he might be knocked into reality once her Daddy, Vince McMahon beat him at WrestleMania. Spontaneously, it gave Kurt a great idea. Thanking her, he kissed her on the cheek and left in a hurry. Steph was left wondering what the hell she had to do to talk about her own problems for a change.
Edge and Christian were visibly hurting from the Dudley Boyz's ladder attack in the backstage area, when approached by Lilian Garcia. The WWF Tag Team Champions were insulted to be confronted by the ring announcer, who asked the brothers about tonight's huge main event against the two headliners of WrestleMania. The Canadians smugly decreed that The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin were on a one-way path to 'the Grandest Stage of Them All'. They didn't bother them. They rocked, and knowing them, the WWF Champion and 'the Texas Rattlesnake' would probably tear each other apart before they even got in there. Edge did however want to talk about the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz. They had ridden this ride plenty of times before. Last year's WrestleMania, they beat both of their doofus families in the Triangle Ladder match; at SummerSlam, they fought with all of their might in the first ever Tables, Ladders and Chairs match. They were the best freaking tag team around here, and they were cocky enough to gloat it. Christian made it known that they both wanted the titles, but they were going to have to go through it all over again to get it - because E&C were formally challenging them to TLC II: at WrestleMania! They mocked Lilian and left, a daring challenge made by the champs!
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The crowd booed, as the physical possessor of the WWF Intercontinental Championship came slumping out to the stage. With Tori by his side, Raven draped the title in tow, running it across the rampway on their route to the ring. Climbing inside, Raven took the time to say a few choice words for his WrestleMania opponent Chris Jericho. Y2J thought that the idea was to draw the line beneath the cocky Canadian, or light a fire of some sort. The problem was, there was no fire, and Y2J ambushing him across the announce table was nothing in the grand scheme of things! He wasn't just trying to provoke Jericho, he wanted to bring him down to everybody's level, and the fans were too stupid to realize what he meant by that!
Raven wished more out of Jericho, expecting more, because when he stepped inside his house of fun in the Astrodome Asylum match at WrestleMania - it would either be the most fun Jericho had had in years...or the worst experience of his life! It wasn't all happy sunshine and rainbows, but one thing was for sure - he'd walk out an entirely different human being than the happy-go-lucky moron he was walking in. Raven planned to make Y2J feel the Evenflow, and come to grips with what the real world - the world he and Tori knew all about - was all about! Finally, pyrotechnics came over the arena, bringing out Kane! 'The Big Red Machine' had fire for sure, and came down to the ring where Raven laughed.
3) Kane def. Raven (w/Tori) def. Kane by disqualification (4:45)Raven was going on a date with destiny in his eyes, apparently looking to bring out Chris Jericho's dark side with the Astrodome Asylum match looming in ten days. Still in physical possession of the WWF Intercontinental Championship, Tori guarded it valuably from ringside, as Kane immediately came for Raven. Raven looked to ambush Kane as he stepped over the ropes, only to be grabbed by the throat and shoved down. Raven was pummelled in the corner by the former WWF Hardcore Champion, when Raven was able to attack the leg with a kick and a chop block. Wrapping the seven-footer's leg around the ring post, he swung it once just for Kane to then rope Raven face-first into the ring post! He laughed in pain, when Kane tried rolling out of the ring just to wind up with his leg wrenched across the apron! Raven choked Kane using the bottom rope, but the big man was abe to boot him off. Kane climbed to the top rope for a diving clothesline, when Raven crotched him! Going up for a superplex Kane thrust him off, delivering the clothesline successfully! 'The Big Red Machine' set up the Chokeslam, but Raven was able to drag the referee in Kane's path! Kane overpowered the Evenflow DDT by muscling him over the top rope to the floor, where Chris Jericho raced out to jump Raven from behind!
Chris Jericho relentlessly pursued Raven, days after jumping him at the announce table on RAW is WAR! The WWF Intercontinental Champion was incensed, having been jumped from behind, provoked repeatedly, and even had his title stolen from him. With ten days remaining until the Astrodome Asylum match, Y2J fought off Raven's feeble attempts to fight back, quickly locking in the Walls of Jericho on his nemesis on the ringside floor! Much like Tori suffered the effects this past Monday night, now was Raven's turn, when Tori dove onto the back of Y2J! The Canadian wisely pulled the main squeeze of 'the Creator' off of him, taking her by the hair. She swung, but missed. Jericho smiled knowingly at the damsel in distress, before tossing her back inside the ring. Tori wound up with her back turned, and bumped into her once ex-lover - Kane. 'The Big Red Machine' glared down at his once-girlfriend, causing her to immediately try and put the moves on him.
Kane responded emphatically, grabbing her by the throat. Kane turned to Jericho at ringside for a signal, as he held the WWF Intercontinental Championship ready to swing at Raven with it. But Raven wasn't reacting! On his knees, he stretched his arms wide open and laughed in the face of the Canadian. Daring him to hit him, Y2J found himself conflicted - was he playing into Raven's hands. Finally Kane decided to deliver a mighty Chokeslam to Tori for lack of self-control, when Y2J shrugged his shoulders and belted Raven in the head with the gold! Raven continued to laugh, left laying on the steel rampway. Y2J visibly felt guilt come over him, as Kane erupted his pyrotechnics in the middle of the ring. Raven was playing head games even in ruin, with just over a week until WrestleMania!
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Kurt Angle walked the halls of the backstage area. On a night where his WrestleMania opponent Hulk Hogan was set to appear for the first time ever on SmackDown, 'the American Hero' had plans to make this night not about 'the Real American' - but instead himself! 'The Megastar' appeared to be en route for the ring.
We returned to SmackDown to witness the former WWF Champion making his way out to the stage. Kurt Angle was not in high spirits, a recurring theme since losing the title back at No Way Out. 'The Megastar' was not dressed for competition, still firmly in denial that he could have lost to Chris Benoit last Monday night on RAW is WAR. Taking to the microphone in the ring, Angle set the record straight - that last Monday night, he did not lose to 'the Rabid Wolverine' by any stretch of the imagination. He had Chris Benoit right where he wanted him, he had Chris's number. But what it did teach Kurt was that there was more to life than what happened in the past. He was the Olympic Gold Medalist from the 1996 Olympic Games, and he the WWF Champion for 169 days. Kurt had beaten the very best that the World Wrestling Federation had to offer, from The Rock, to Triple H, to Chris Jericho - even Benoit himself! What happened in the past was in the past, was what he was coming to learn from. He sure as hell would be a three-time WWF Champion again in the future, but now more than ever he was focused on WrestleMania. What was meant to be a defining moment of his legendary seventeen-month long career, with him standing tall with the title at the conclusion of 'the Showcase of the Immortals', will become even more legendary. In ten days at WrestleMania, he would get the opportunity to do something even greater. Not Andre the Giant or Randy Savage could say they had ever beaten the man he meets - which is why it would make him larger than life to defeat 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan on 'the Grandest Stage of Them All!'
Kurt Angle spoke valiantly about how he planned to disparage Hulk Hogan's entire legacy with the help of his Three Is: intensity, integrity and intelligence. In the battle of the American heroes, he would show the people the man they deserved on top to present all of them - the youthful 'Olympic Hero'. Not the wrinkly, old Hollywood hasbeen from yesteryear, Hulk Hogan! Kurt digressed to discuss the politics that the Hulkster liked to employ, accusing him of being manipulative. He was fed everything on a silver platter, that it was only natural the people would adore him. To some people Hulkamania was a lifestyle choice, it was a way of life. But to Kurt Angle - he thought Hulkamania was a joke! Finally, Hulk Hogan interrupted the Olympian. 'The Megastar' was furious with his presence, as Providence came to life saluting the WWF Legend! Cupping his ear, Hogan appreciated the people and bowed for each of them, making his way down to the ring. Donned in red and yellow, the Hulkster confronted Kurt in the ring and let Kurt know just how impressed he was. He had all of the potential in the world, seventeen months into his career - who knew where he'd be in ten or fifteen years! Less than two years in, he was already a multi-time WWF Champion. He had headlined pay-per-views, defended titles, he'd won tournaments - but there was something he knew Kurt was missing! Simply, Hulk pointed to the Rhode Island crowd, as they each fan chanted his name.
Hulk Hogan told Kurt Angle that the most important thing that he was missing was the love of the crowd. They willed him on, brother. They made Hulkamania exist, because they believed, and they helped him believe he could will on and fight for the betterment of society! Admitting how despite how tough he was, how strong he was, and how patriotic he was - if it wasn't for the fans that adored him, and believed so much in Hulkamania, he'd have nothing! 'The Real American' pitied Kurt for not seeing things the way he did, because that's where he was going wrong in his career. He had already been the rookie that came in, cleaned house and made it to the top - and it made him egotistical. He lost the WWF Championship because he was so full of himself, too confident and so wrapped up in the lies he told himself. Angle was so set on aiming to destroy Hulkamania, that he did lose last Monday night to Chris Benoit, and that in ten days he hoped Kurt Angle was ready for him. Because at WrestleMania, when Kurt stood across the ring from the Hulkster, he was in for a brutal reality check of epic proportions. He wouldn't be in the ring just anybody, but the man that was the reason for a WrestleMania to begin with! The same man that slammed Andre the Giant in front of 93,000 fans in the Silverdome. The man that beat the 500-pound Yokozuna in nine seconds. Hulk said that he might not be getting any younger, but he sure as hell knew that he could still take this cocky young buck and teach him a thing or two. Kurt Angle had to get his head out of his ass and into the game, because what was he going to do when Hulkamania ran wild on him?
'The Megastar' was humbled by Hogan's speech, as he guaranteed that once the leg came crashing down over him in the Reliant Astrodome, nobody would be talking about Kurt's medals, titles or accolades. They would be saying that Hulk Still Rules, because this old man just kicked his ass in front of the entire world! Angle finally muttered how full of himself Hulk was, because apparently he wasn't the only man spouting his own bull. He could come out here and brag about how he was the man once, and how famous he had become making a living out of this business. He might be the revered Legend in this business, in pop culture, and for the United States of America as far as he was concerned. Angle appeared to be about to leave, telling Hulk to enjoy this moment, because he might be good ol' Hulk Hogan, but he would never be Kurt freaking Angle! Hogan nodded and made the mistake of turning his back, when Angle tried jumping him from behind! The fight was on, with Angle immediately looking to take the Hulkster down, only to be met with fierce right hands! Angle was stunned into the ropes from the blows, when an eye rake gave him control. The Angle Slam was attempted, when Hogan powered him across the ring, before drilling Kurt with the big boot! Hogan cupped his ears and turned to the crowd for approval - the Leg Drop was coming, when Angle was able to roll out to safety! 'The Megastar' continued to be off his game, backing off with a scorned look on his face. Meanwhile the Hulkster stood with the Hulkamaniacs on his side to hotdog and grandstand the squared circle. If this Kurt Angle was coming to WrestleMania, 'the Real American' would surely run wild on him!
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Backstage, Triple H walked the hall on his way to the ring. With Shawn Michaels strongly on his mind, and perhaps even hiding at any corner backstage, 'the Game' had eyes in the back of his head. Geared up and ready to go, 'the Cerebral Assassin' was set to meet the new WWF Commissioner and WWF European Champion William Regal - up next!4) Triple H def. WWF Commissioner and WWF European Champion William Regal (5:22)
The new WWF Commissioner had not endeared him to many members of the WWF locker room over the past week, particularly Bradshaw. William Regal had a choice encounter with Triple H on Monday night, furious with 'the Game' for roughing up X-Factor, whom the WWF European Champion had deployed to take care of the APA founder. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' looked plenty mean after being cold-cocked on RAW is WAR, but soon stalled upon surveying 'the Cerebral Assassin' waiting for him to step between the ropes. The Englishman stalled to save time, prompting Hunter to go out and come after him. Dealing him with some more right hands, 'the Game' hurled him into the ring where Regal was able to get in some choice stomps. Regal came off the ropes, only to walk into a high knee from his opponent! Triple H was ready for Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania, mounting Regal with punches until the referee was able to step in.
It bought Regal affordable time to come back with a chop block to the leg. Immediately targeting it, Regal wrestled with kicks to the hamstring of 'the Game', hyperextending the knees in a bow-and-arrow expertly. Regal transitioned into a facelock, when Hunter made the bottom rope. Regal hung in there, firing with European uppercuts in the corner. A double underhook suplex gave him a near fall, when Regal lined up the equalizer. Off the ropes, but in missing the driving knee strike it allowed Triple H to connect with the DDT! Clotheslines took the WWF Commissioner down, culminating in a spinebuster! Triple H got prepped for the Pedigree, when Regal cowardly bailed from the ring. He tried to take a walk and get counted out, when Bradshaw came stepping down the rampway! Regal had nowhere to run as the Texan advanced on him, and in stumbling back inside, 'the Game' struck with the Pedigree for the win!
Bradshaw watched with his arms folded firmly, pleased with getting some revenge after what the WWF Commissioner had put him through in recent weeks. William Regal was left laying in a heap on the canvas, while Triple H thanked the APA founder for the help. Clearly keeping an eye out for a potential Shawn Michaels sighting, 'the Game' posed on the turnbuckles before leaving the ring. Hunter dug into his kneepad and pulled out a wad of cash for the favor: 'the Game' had bought himself some measure of protection from 'the Heartbreak Kid!' In ten days, former D-Generation X co-founders would meet at WrestleMania, and Triple H had to be counting down the days!
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Stone Cold Steve Austin was backstage padding up his knees, with the non-title tag team main event of a lifetime coming up later tonight. Suddenly, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' was forced to look up - seeing WrestleMania rival The Rock standing before him. The WWF Champion wanted the 2001 Royal Rumble winner to know, off the record, that he did not appreciate the situation they had been placed in. Rock had no intentions of teaming with Austin ever again, that he didn't like him and he could not wait to whoop his candyass at WrestleMania. 'The Rattlesnake' chuckled and came to his feet. He was surprised Rock came to him, last time he'd seen him he was running away from the Stone Cold Stunner. Austin told Rock the same, that he couldn't wait to stomp a mudhole in Rock's ass in ten days. Why? Because he was the WWF Champion. Austin wanted nothing but the gold that Rock had. He let Rock know that he didn't trust him, nor had he ever. But he wasn't stupid, he knew exactly what Rock would try to do to him tonight if he had a chance. If he did - it would be the single biggest mistake of his life! Austin left the room, leaving Rock alone. How could these two possibly share the ring tonight, against WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian?
We returned to SmackDown, where during the commercial break Triple H came through the curtain. Seconds after putting away WWF Commissioner William Regal in decisive fashion, 'the Game' walked the halls shaking hands with the likes of Pat Patterson and Kaientai. 'The Game' was focused on WrestleMania, when he was approached for conversation by Jim Ross. J.R. told him that he knew the levity of the situation between himself and longtime friend Shawn Michaels, but he had some news to break that might well interest him. Intrigued, 'the Cerebral Assassin' listened, as J.R. made it known that 'the Heartbreak Kid' had just today given his word, that he would be live in the house on Sunday Night Heat, in WWF New York. Interrupting Jim, Hunter thanked him for that. But what that meant was that he would also be live, in living color on MTV this Sunday night. Triple H patted Ross on the back, before smirking knowingly.
. 5) Chris Benoit def. Steve Blackman (3:43)It was back at the Royal Rumble in January where Chris Benoit, on the very night he was deprived entry of the 2001 Royal Rumble match against Triple H, forced himself in by attacking 'the Lethal Weapon' Steve Blackman from behind. Blackman wanted revenge and had ordered this match, immediately meeting 'the Rabid Wolverine' on the rampway for a fist fight. Benoit had had a big night on Monday, defeating Kurt Angle in a cheap upset, but had once again crossed paths with a warning 'American Badass' the Undertaker. Benoit did not respect anybody in his own mind, but Blackman tried to make him early on by sending him inside. Two dropkicks caught Benoit on the nose, cutting him open, when a hip toss followed. Blackman scored with a sharp front kick to the face for a near fall, when Benoit came back with a swift backbreaker! A snap suplex gave Benoit a near fall, when the fujiwara armbar went applied - only Blackman made the ropes. Benoit battered Blackman with right hands, when the martial artist scored a double leg takedown, before driving some hard punches and palm strikes on Benoit! Chris made it to the ropes, when a pump kick rocked the Canadian for a two count. Blackman attempted the guillotine choke, only to be thrown off and locked in the Crossface. Blackman stubbornly refused to tap out but finally gave up - giving Benoit the win!
Chris Benoit refused to relieve the pressure after the bell, 'the Rabid Wolverine' undoubtedly still upset with the way he lost to The Rock last week in the Submission match on SmackDown! The referee was finally able to drag Benoit from Steve Blackman's prone body, but the Canadian was far from finished yet with 'the Lethal Weapon' Rolling out of the ring, Benoit grabbed a steel chair and returned. Slamming the canvas with it he lined Blackman up, even shoving down the referee in frustration! Benoit had snapped, and opened up a head shot on the martial artist! Benoit returned to the Crossface, when the lights went out. A gong was heard, and out came the Undertaker! No motorcycle tonight, 'the American Badass' had warned Benoit to pay respect in his yard last Monday night. Stomping down the rampway in disapproval, Benoit wisely decided to leave the ring in a hurry. Instead, 'the Deadman' waited and glared in Benoit's way, who smiled with confidence from the rampway.
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Stephanie McMahon and Trish Stratus were backstage chatting in the locker room about the impending match between Vince McMahon and Shane McMahon, come WrestleMania. Trish wanted to know who 'the Billion Dollar Princess' was rooting for, but Steph confessed she didn't know if she really wanted to. She loved the both of them so much. She knew how much of a horse's ass Shane had been, which is why she slapped him right across the face earlier tonight. But at the same time, she knew how much of an assh*le her father could be. Steph again asked Trish what the Chairman could possibly have meant about Trish in their conversation on RAW is WAR. Stratus deflected, telling her to follow her heart. But if it was up to Trish, she'd root for her father. Stratus asked how Steph's mother Linda McMahon was doing, when Kurt Angle stormed into the dressing room livid. With his bags packed, 'the Megastar' told Steph that they were leaving: he didn't want to be here anymore, and had been embarrassed for the last time, by Hulk Hogan tonight! The people didn't deserve an Olympic Gold Medalist, and Angle believed that the Hulkster would be sorry at WrestleMania. Angle left the room, leaving Steph to say goodbye to Trish and follow suit quickly.
We returned to a wide shot of the Providence Civic Center, as the crowd booed loudly upon seeing D-Lo Brown sat high up in the stands. From one of the skyboxes, D-Lo was joined by Jonathan Coachman who had to ask D-Lo about his recent change of style. Taking us back to a replay from Sunday Night Heat, D-Lo had betrayed K-Kwik in the midst of a tag team match against the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan. Wanting to understand better, the Coach was ordered to give D-Lo some space. Brown knew that the people had been raving all week long, waiting to hear from what D-Lo had to say about his own actions. Belittling Coach as a peasant, Brown had wisely kept them all waiting. He was a busy man these days, ever since he won the lottery last month, he had a whole boat-load of investments to take care of. While it was none of anybody but his business what he had been spending his money on, he had been spending it wisely. He bought a new crib, some of the finest sports cars around, and he invested in some stocks that would without a doubt take him to some crazy new places. Some could say that D-Lo had gotten lucky, nailing the jackpot the way he did. It really didn't mean a damn thing to him, how he got it. What it mattered to D-Lo was, he no longer felt the need to associate himself with the likes of common men, like K-Kwik! 'The Real Deal' had spoken, richer than royalty and enjoying SmackDown above the "peasants" from Providence.
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The sirens soon started howling throughout the Providence Civic Center, leading out the WWF Women's Champion Ivory and Steven Richards. The Right to Censor had taken to the ring after calling to action the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry earlier tonight. 'The Role Model' stood amongst the heated crowd all chanting for Chyna, as Steven remarked how it had been three days since the most unsettling, uncivilized beating of his life. Never before had he been manhandled the way he was, by not only 'the One' Billy Gunn - but the rest of those appalling lumberjacks! It truly showed the corporate bias the WWF Superstars had to show for the RTC, that the entire locker room was corrupt and not open to grow and change - much like the soldiers they already had in their movement! All the RTC wanted to do was fight the good fight against moral corruption, decay and eye candy that continued to plague the masturbatory teenagers of today worldwide. The RTC deserved better for everything they were trying to do, and change needed to happen! Rhode Island chanted "assh*le" at Steven, when the WWF Women's Champion took to the microphone. Ivory made sure to note that the loss Steven Richards faced last Monday night on RAW is WAR, only transpired because of the interference of the yellow-bellied Diva, 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' Chyna. What was it going to be? Was she going to be woman enough to come and fight her like a human being, or continue to rude, hide and make phony little injury excuses every single time Ivory messed her up.
She reiterated that she had now beaten and injured Chyna twice, and that undisputedly made her 'the Tenth Wonder of the World'. And not only that, but she was not a WWF Diva like Chyna - she was a wrestler. Bragging about how beating her for a third time at WrestleMania would mark her name in all the history books, as the most legendary WWF Women's Champion of all-time, Ivory didn't want to just beat Chyna again. She wanted to humiliate her, to make her cry her eyes out in front of the entire Reliant Astrodome crowd. Chyna could either do that - or run away. Ivory posed the option that Chyna could simply stay home, not come to Houston, and turn to a life of exploiting her own putrid body for teens to get off to - until the Right to Censor shut that down, too. Finally, Chyna made her way out to the stage, flanked by her boyfriend 'the One' Billy Gunn. Nearly two weeks after collapsing in the centre of the ring on RAW is WAR, 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' took to the microphone to speak out against Ivory! The Playboy covergirl smiled, telling Ivory just how proud she had to be of the Right to Censor. They made such an example out of her. Chyna had dealt with setbacks before, but nothing compared to what she felt like, when she was given a Piledriver on her head two months ago. How she lost feeling in her arm two weeks ago, because she came back too early. Chyna had been told time after time, from any doctor willing to listen - that she couldn't possibly compete at WrestleMania. The WWF trainer wouldn't even clear her for WrestleMania, and advised she retire, and hang up her boots. Even Billy Gunn didn't want her back in the squared-circle!
But the more she thought about Ivory, and the rest of the Right to Censor - all she wanted was to come back and kick her sorry ass once and for all! The crowd erupted, as Chyna told Ivory that she was defying everybody's orders, because it was her decision - and her decision only! At 'the Grandaddy of Them All', Chyna was going to step inside those ropes, beat the cr*p out of Ivory, and take her WWF Women's Championship. Ivory's mood dropped to a scowl, as Chyna concluded her statement - but until April 1, she was going to leave Ivory with a message to remember her by. 'The Ninth Wonder of the World' was in prime condition, training for WrestleMania - she just simply wasn't waiting for the WWF Women's Championship match! Ivory appeared intimidated as Chyna stomped down the rampway with 'the One' Billy Gunn backing her up. The so-called 'Tenth Wonder of the World' shielded herself behind Steven, who similarly begged for mercy. Billy Gunn took the prime opportunity, drilling him across the face with a big right hand! Ivory tried to squirm out of the ring, only for the Playboy covergirl to grab hold of her hair! At ringside, the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry came out to aid to their colleagues in the RTC, just to be met with Chyna military pressing the WWF Women's Champion over the top rope, onto all three of them! Chyna posed with Ivory's title belt high, standing tall with boyfriend Billy Gunn! Steven was sieging at ringside, as the days were winding down on the confrontation come WrestleMania!
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The Undertaker walked the halls backstage, moments after another tense altercation with the disrespectful Chris Benoit. Kevin Kelly hoped to get to the bottom of it, asking 'the American Badass' about his relationship with 'the Rabid Wolverine'. Undertaker told Kevin that Benoit had a lot of gall doing the things he did. He hoped after a 'come to Jesus' meeting with the kid last week, and last Monday night - he might ease up. He knew how much pent-up aggression 'the Wolverine' had, how there was no WWF Championship match, no WrestleMania match - no nothing. But the second Benoit started doing the things he was doing, a hound p*ssing all over his yard - he knew action needed to be taken. He wasn't doing anything at WrestleMania either, so if Benoit was man enough - he wouldn't be afraid to be taught a lesson in respect by 'the Deadman', come WrestleMania!
Undertaker carried on walking the hall, towering over everybody near him. Suddenly, a door behind him opened - it was Chris Benoit holding a steel chair! Slamming it across the spine, Benoit sent Undertaker face-first into a wall, before slamming the steel chair twice over his back, as the veteran laid prone on the concrete floor! Benoit had heard enough out of the Undertaker's mouth too, seemingly accepting the challenge thrown out by 'the Deadman!' Benoit looked to exact some damage on 'the Deadman's ankle with the chair, when Kane finally showed up to run Benoit away! 'The Big Red Machine' leant down to help his half-brother back to his feet, while the Undertaker angrily called after Benoit!
We returned to SmackDown with an update for WrestleMania X-Seven - now only ten days away, live from the beautiful Reliant Astrodome in Houston, Texas! Michael Cole and Tazz talked about the shocking announcement, and backstage beatdown brought on by the Undertaker challenging Chris Benoit - and Shane McMahon had made it official for April 1. Also announced earlier tonight by Edge and Christian - they would defend the WWF Tag Team Championships themselves, against the forces of the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz in Tables, Ladders and Chairs! A SummerSlam rematch, it would be TLC II! Cole and Tazz discussed the other matches come 'the Grandaddy of Them All', to be headlined by what was sure to be without a doubt, the biggest match in World Wrestling Federation history - The Rock against Stone Cold Steve Austin, for the WWF Championship!
. 6) WWF Champion The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin vs WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian ended in a no contest (6:37)Earlier tonight, Edge and Christian put all of their money on a huge gamble in ten days at WrestleMania, challenging year-long rivals the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz to another foray into Tables, Ladders and Chairs. TLC II was official, an unorthodox decision made by the typically devious and defensive WWF Tag Team Champions. But their sole focus, despite a scathing ladder attack from the Dudleys earlier tonight, was to combat the two men that would compete against one another at WrestleMania. With the richest prize in the business at stake, WWF Champion The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin first had to coexist, in this non-title environment. A tense face-off between the WrestleMania rivals allowed Edge and Christian to blind-sight The Rock and Stone Cold. The Canadians struck early hoping to gain an advantage, only to be cleaned house of by 'the Brahma Bull' and 'the Texas Rattlesnake!' Austin stomped a mudhole in Edge, whilst Rock showboated with right hands to Christian in the opposite corner. As the champs bailed to the floor, Rock and Austin once again mouthed off to one another - something had to give, be it tonight or in the nine days following SmackDown, ahead of 'the Grandest Stage of Them All'.
As SmackDown returned from the commercial break, The Rock had his way with Edge with a belly-to-belly suplex off the ropes, following up with a floatover DDT into a nip up. 'The People's Champ's eyes remained fixated strongly on the observing 'Texas Rattlesnake'. Christian made the tag, only to be shot down against as Rock sounded off with a Samoan drop for a near fall. Edge tried to interfere, finally allowing Edge to hang Rock throat-first over the top rope! Christian scored with the inverted DDT, when the manipulative methods of the WWF Tag Team Champions put them in control. Isolating him from an eager Stone Cold, Christian maintained an armbar until Rock soon came fighting his way free. It was temporary, as a flying clothesline connected. Only, Rock didn't see the tag made, and Edge came from behind with the Edge-o-matic! Edge mocked the 2001 Royal Rumble winner, soon going for a DDT - roped into one by 'the Great One!' Rock made the tag to Austin, who came in to immediately open fire on Christian! Stomping a mudhole into him, Edge tried to intervene only to wind up receiving a series of knee strikes to the abdomen. Clunking both Canadians' heads together, 'the Rattlesnake' fired with the Lou Thesz press on Edge before lining Christian up for the Stunner! Edge intruded with the spear, allowing Rock to make a blind tag. The WWF Champion hammered, when the WWF Tag Team Champion shoved the referee in the way knocking him down!
Edge struck with a bulldog on the Rock, before he and Christian recomposed on the outside. Securing steel chairs, the WWF Tag Team Champions had some cruel intentions due for the Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. They lined up the Conchairto on the Rock, when Stone Cold hit the ring with a Stone Cold Stunner for Christian! Edge swung and missed a chair shot, and 'the Texas Rattlesnake' struck again with a second Stunner for Edge! The champs were ransacked from the ring by the 2001 Royal Rumble winner, who fiercely picked up a steel chair and squared off with the evacuating Canadians!
Meanwhile, the Rock had came to and seen Austin with the chair. Stalking him all along, Rock halted Austin with the Rock Bottom, leaving his WrestleMania challenger laying in the middle of the ring! Taking to the second rope to salute the Providence crowd, Rock was ready for 'the Grandaddy of Them All' in ten days. Would there be hell to pay for the Rock Bottom, or was Austin thinking about using the chair himself on 'the Brahma Bull?' Only one week remained until 'the Showcase of the Immortals!' |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 24, 2021 16:59:00 GMT -5
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Post by DTP. on Mar 25, 2021 10:03:55 GMT -5
Jakked - March 24, 2001
Pepsi Arena in Albany, New York
Broadcast on syndication
Taped on March 19, 2001The opening video package aired, bringing us to the arena where Kevin Kelly and Jonathan Coachman welcomed us to WWF Jakked, eight days away from WrestleMania X-Seven!
1) Test def. Gary Stenstrom (3:24)Over a week since blasting his former T&A partner in the face with a big boot, Test still had an axe to grind with Albert. 'The Freight Train' got even with the six-foot-six Canadian on RAW is WAR, after he had come to the aid of their former manager Trish Stratus. The only issue was, Trish was not interested in either of her former clients. Tonight in action against Gary Stenstrom, the up-and-comer hoped to use power against Test's size and stature, a sidewalk slam surprising him early. Test immediately came firing back, gunning with repeated elbow strikes in the corner. A powerful clothesline made way for Test to connect with a sidewalk slam of his own as Gary came off the second rope, when a pumphandle slam connected. Lining Gary up, Test fired with the big boot, to pick up the three count. The fans were catching in by the week, in admiration for Test.
2) Kaientai def. Dave Danger and JP Black (4:12)The successful invaders of Sunday Night Heat had gained a lot in popularity since "taking over" WWF New York. Taka Michinoku and Funaki had become cult favorites with fans everywhere, as before the match Taka gave another rousing speech about what it meant to be loud, proud and Japanese. Funaki bellowed "INDEED" in return, as they prepared for action tonight on Jakked against Dave Danger and JP Black. Black and Danger were wise early, managing to separate Funaki with a double backbreaker. The two grounded and cornered Funaki away from Taka, as a double footstomp gave Danger a near fall. Finally, Funaki caught Black with a swinging DDT, making the tag to Taka. A springboard clothesline got a near fall on Danger, when Black came in to receive a spinning headscissors. Funaki took care of Danger with a hurricanrana of his own, when Taka scored the winning pin with the Michinoku Driver on Dave. Kaientai were firing on all cylinders, going into WrestleMania.
4) Essa Rios def. Low-Ki (4:34)The former multiple time WWF Light Heavyweight Champion had been rolling in recent weeks, still hoping to recover from losing the title to Jeff Hardy back in January. The exciting lucha-libre 'Daredevil' was unsuccessful against Spike Dudley on Sunday Night Heat last week, but thrived to change his chances against the universally trained Low-Ki. A youngster in his own right, Low-Ki was a hard-hitting free agent that had travelled the world, competing often over in Japan. But tonight, he was met with little respect by Essa, who slapped him around in a wristlock early. Low-Ki fired back with some hard kicks to the chest and face, and a martial arts kick even gave him a near fall. Rios bailed to the floor, surprised as the youngster caught him with a breathtaking springboard moonsault on the floor! Low-Ki looked for a diving double footstomp only for Essa to move, injuring his foot in the process. A tilt-a-whirl slam halted him in his tracks, and the 450 splash would soon enough give the former champ the three count. |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 25, 2021 14:59:55 GMT -5
Sunday Night Heat - March 25, 2001
Providence Civic Center in Providence, Rhode Island
Broadcast on MTV - Live from WWF New York
Taped on March 20, 2001 A video package aired, looking through the highlights of the career of 'the Heartbreak Kid'. Debuting as one-half of the Rockers back in 1988, Shawn Michaels' career would soon take off, becoming the first-ever member of an elite club as the Grand Slam Champion. Winning back-to-back Royal Rumble matches, the first of which from the entry number of number one, HBK became known as the true 'Showstopper' by capturing the WWF Championship in the main event of WrestleMania XII. An elite career that also involved the career-making Ladder match with Razor Ramon at WrestleMania X, there were few that could argue that HBK was the definitive 'Mr. WrestleMania'. Sadly in 1998, his world came crashing down. Suffering a career-ending back surgery, Shawn was forced to hang up his boots for nearly three years...until last December. Now, Shawn Michaels was back, and on course for what was sure to be another physical and mental test for both himself, and D-Generation X co-founder, Triple H. The best friends were to finally do battle, but first - tonight, Shawn Michaels would be live and in living color, from WWF New York!
The opening video package aired, taking us to WWF New York for Sunday Night Heat! Michael Cole and Tazz were stood at the desk inside of the restaurant and entertainment complex, in downtown New York City. They exclaimed the excitement and electricity in the air, knowing that they were one week away from 'the Grandest Stage of Them All' - WrestleMania X-Seven! They glossed over some of the matches already set for the show seven days away, before running down what was in store tonight on Heat. The WWF Hardcore Championship would be on the line, as the Big Show would once again lay down the challenge for whomever dared to answer; plus, Kaientai would meet the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan. Plus, Shawn Michaels would be appearing live at WWF New York, seven days before scheduled to meet Triple H at WrestleMania! 'The Game' knew all about it and had told Jim Ross on SmackDown that he too would be live in New York tonight - what kind of war could be bound to break out tonight?
The Radicalz made their way down to the ring to kick off Sunday Night Heat, for six-person mixed tag team competition. Eddie Guerrero waltzed to the ring behind Perry Saturn, Dean Malenko and a motivated 'She-Devil' Terri. In a comfortable WrestleMania X-Seven baseball jersey, 'Latino Heat' was here to not just accompany the Radicalz, but join Michael Cole and Tazz on commentary! As Terri flaunted the puppies over the top rope, the Fighting Holly Cousins soon came stomping out to the ring, as led by Molly Holly.
1) The Radicalz and Terri def. The Fighting Holly Cousins in a mixed tag team match (4:41)This was not the first run-in that the Radicalz and the Fighting Holly Cousins had had in recent weeks. Molly Holly wanted to get serious about in-ring competition, even if that meant pursuing 'the She-Devil' Terri who avoided her at all costs at the start of the match. Eddie Guerrero on commentary moaned about wearing a WrestleMania jersey that he himself apparently had to buy, furious about not having a place. 'Latino Heat' said he wanted his opportunity to compete at WrestleMania, and questioned where the Radicalz's slot on the show was too! Perry Saturn and Crash Holly started off, with Crash quick to outwrestle him with a series of armdrags and a headscissors. Hardcore Holly made the tag with a dropkick connecting, lighting Saturn up with chops and a body slam leading to a neckbreaker shortly after. Saturn tried breaking free from a headlock, only to be sent running into Dean Malenko.
It counted as a tag, but Malenko wound up the recipient of a big back body drop followed by a powerbomb! Crash made the tag, but Terri distracted the referee allowing Saturn to score with the German suplex! Saturn and Malenko took control, when Crash fought off a bodyscissors from Saturn, and rolled Malenko up for two before tagging in Molly! As the Hollys and Radicalz fought each other, Molly dragged Terri in the hard way by the hair! Ten punches hit in the corner, before a northern lights suplex connected. Malenko broke it up, when Hardcore came in with the Alabama Slam connecting! Saturn jumped Hardcore sending him to the floor, while inside Molly was up top for the Molly Go-Round - when Eddie Guerrero got up off commentary and shoved Molly off the top rope! She landed rough, when Terri rolled Molly up with the tights - a huge upset scored for 'the She-Devil!'
The Radicalz had just beaten the Fighting Holly Cousins, surely putting them in good stead in the WWF Tag Team Championship chase. Terri had picked up the victory against Molly Holly for Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko, and the trio celebrated in the ring as a surly Eddie Guerrero would soon join them. The quartet would immediately leave at the nearest possibility, once Hardcore and Crash Holly hit the ring to chase them away. The Radicalz celebrated big on the rampway, while 'Latino Heat' remained bitter about his lack of opportunities ahead of WrestleMania X-Seven. The Hollys were left bitter, especially Molly and Hardcore.
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A video package aired, taking us back to over a week ago on SmackDown. As Chris Benoit failed time and time again to capture the WWF Championship in the run-up to WrestleMania X-Seven, he soon found himself confronted by the Undertaker. On two separate occasions, including last Monday night on RAW is WAR, 'the American Badass' warned 'the Rabid Wolverine' not to desecrate his yard here, in the World Wrestling Federation. Another tense showdown went down on SmackDown, as Benoit furiously tried to nourish his frustration against Steve Blackman with a steel chair. Instead, 'the Deadman' came to walk Benoit out of it. Benoit left, and Undertaker would later make himself clear. With both without task come WrestleMania, 'the Deadman' challenged 'the Wolverine' to a match at WrestleMania to teach the Canadian some respect - when Benoit came from behind, with a steel chair in hand! Benoit was ready to disrespect the veteran further, but thankfully Kane was there in time to run him off. Benoit had a major threat ahead of him in the Undertaker, as they were now on a crash course to 'the Grandaddy of Them All' next week!
Al Snow was in the locker room as we returned to Sunday Night Heat, when into the room burst members of the Right to Censor! Mark Henry stood with his arms folded, acting as the muscle for the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan. The former co-host of MTV's Heat stood defensively brandishing Head, as Goodfather questioned whether Al found portraying the role of a lumberjack hysterical last Monday night. Al admitted he did, when Bull blurted that what happened to Steven Richards was no laughing matter! Again, Snow admitted it was. Buchanan screamed in his face, calling him pathetic for continuing to go winless, losing every match he had had, for months! Goodfather added how dumb he thought it was for him to be portraying the role of a trainer of WWF Tough Enough - he was anything but. Goodfather did however, have a solution. He too could find salvation, much like they had. They had become reborn in the RTC, and Al could find rebirth himself. Snow tried to decline, just for Goodfather to continue selling it to him. It could change his life, going from living off of tacky gimmicks, and carrying mannequin heads, puppy dogs and midgets in cheese costumes around. Compared to being a proud soldier to join them in fighting the good fight - it would be a new start to Snow's stale, old career. Goodfather asked Al for his answer, but Snow said simply that he found it embarrassing: they all wore the same outfits! Bull had to be held back, calmed by Goodfather and Mark. The RTC were giving Snow until the end of the night to make his decision: is he RTC? Or would he keep doing the J-O-B?
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Michael Cole and Tazz were back live from WWF New York, as they continued to discuss the escalating situation between the Undertaker and Chris Benoit. Inbound for a collision at WrestleMania, 'the Rabid Wolverine' had shown 'the American Badass' no respect, whereas Undertaker hoped to beat it out of him in seven days, at 'the Grandaddy of Them All'. Tazz could commend what 'the Wolverine' did to 'the Deadman', but questioned what might even be left of Benoit - because tomorrow night on RAW is WAR, in breaking news - Benoit would be meeting another Brother of Destruction member, 'the Big Red Machine' Kane!
We returned to the arena, where the WWF Hardcore Champion Big Show proudly displayed the title high for everybody to see it. 'The Hardcore Giant' had defeated Al Snow in decisive fashion last Monday night on RAW is WAR, only to be the recipient of a Gore from former champ Rhyno. The seven-foot monster stood in the middle of the ring with a microphone, talking about how shocked the world was to see him just over one week away, when he laid waste to not only 'the Man-Beast' Rhyno, but the Undertaker and Kane as well. It had allowed the puny little people to see the big man in a whole new light. He might be seven-foot-two, 500-pounds, but this title also made him Hardcore! Show bragged that nobody could stop this 'Hardcore Giant', not even Rhyno - who was apparently too afraid to even try and cover him! With that said, Show threw out the challenge to anybody in the backstage area. Who was man enough to use the 24/7 rule to their advantage? It would be none other than Test, who confidently came stomping down the rampway, to a warm reaction!2) Big Show (c) def. Test to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship (4:41)'The Hardcore Giant', so the Big Show was now calling himself, believed that he was unstoppable as the WWF Hardcore Champion. Despite Rhyno's Gore on RAW is WAR six nights ago, 'the Man-Beast' had interestingly neglected covering the big man, but was surely watchful of the outcome tonight, as Test answered the open challenge. Despite the size advantage, Test was big enough to go blow for blow with the champ as the bell sounded. Ducking a clothesline, the Canadian tapped into some agility, scoring with a big clothesline of his own. Test immediately looked for the big boot, but Show sidestepped it and delivered a sidewalk slam! Test rolled to the floor before using a trash can shot to the head of 'the Giant', using a stop sign to clumsily knock Show silly. Show finally fired back with a headbutt, before strangling Test with the use of a kendo stick concealed in the trash can! Sending him to the floor, Show sent him into the steel steps before dishing out some brutal chops against the barricade. Test soon came swinging back, and a further stop sign shot knocked Show over the barricade! Test came over the barricade with an elbow drop, covering - when Albert came through the crowd with a steel chair shot across the spine of Test! 'The Freight Train' was not finished with his former T&A partner after beating him down on RAW is WAR, immediately backing away as Show took the steel chair to strike Test once more in the skull, covering to pick up the three count!
'The Hardcore Giant' had capitalized once again with some assistance from Albert, who was all in to strictly do a number on his former T&A partner, Test. Big Show's hand was raised to loud boos, as the 500-pounder climbed back over the barricade. The WWF Hardcore Champion posed with the title raised high, not realizing that Rhyno had snuck down to ringside! 'The Man-Beast' paced himself patiently, snarling in a stalking position. Show abruptly turned around, sighting the ECW alumni ready to pounce with a Gore! But once again, curiously, Rhyno waited. It seemed he was biding his time, as Show uncomfortably backed away around the ringside area for safety. What was Rhyno waiting for?
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A video package aired, taking us back to one month ago on RAW is WAR. After Linda McMahon was sent to the hospital following a traumatic episode brought on by Chris Benoit, Vince McMahon and Shane McMahon prepared to leave for the emergency room, when Shane O'Mac himself brutally attacked his father! Leaving the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation in a puddle of blood, Shane would spend weeks disparaging his own Dad. Accusing him of sleeping with Trish Stratus, and outing his promiscuous nature, Shane was bitter about not being given the keys to the castle in power over the company. Shane wanted complete control, going as far as assigning William Regal as the new permanent WWF Commissioner. Yet on RAW is WAR, Vince came back with the last laugh. Finally letting Shane hear what he had to say, the McMahon men had an intense verbal exchange, with Vince challenging his own son to a match at WrestleMania. Shane accepted his father's challenge, before addressing him further on SmackDown this past week. Only this time, as Shane went all out on his absent father, Stephanie McMahon would let her brother had it. Slapped in the face by his own sister, Shane was left alone - and at WrestleMania, in father against son, Vince might well have been the one man to finally shut Shane up for good!
A graphic aired, reminding us that WrestleMania X-Seven was merely seven days away, live on pay-per-view from the Reliant Astrodome in Houston, Texas! "My Way" by Limp Bizkit played, the official theme song for 'the Grandaddy of Them All'.
In WWF New York, Michael Cole and Tazz continued to discuss WrestleMania X-Seven, making note of how it did not feel like a year had passed since WrestleMania 2000. Tazz agreed with Cole for a change, but noted just how much bigger the stakes were this year. Particularly in focusing on Kurt Angle's dream match with 'the Immortal' Hulk Hogan, the two discussed and debated who the better American truly was. Was it 'the Real American' or 'the American Hero?' It appeared as though 'the Megastar' continued to struggle, coping with the loss of the WWF Championship from back at No Way Out. Angle still had the gold on his mind, while simultaneously hoping to tackle the Hulkster. It cost him in a big way on RAW is WAR, as Angle lost to Chris Benoit via controversial upset - it was enough to rock the Olympic Gold Medalist's self-esteem, or so he thought. On SmackDown, the two would have another larger than life encounter, but as Hogan schooled Kurt on what he was lacking as a major WWF Superstar, Angle tried getting physical with the former multiple-time WWF Champion. Hulk showed he still ruled, delivering the big boot and clearing the ring of the Olympian to a massive ovation. Angle needed to dig deep and start taking the challenge at WrestleMania more seriously, or risk being humiliated again on 'the Grandest Stage of Them All'. Tomorrow night, both Angle and the Hulkster would appear in person, on RAW is WAR!
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Jonathan Coachman was backstage at the arena, wishing to speak with the two men that would meet the Right to Censor tonight - Kaientai. Taka Michinoku cackled in his dubbed, Americanized voice about how Sunday Night Heat was "their" show, and how much the MTV executives loved Kaientai! Management could not get enough. The Coach was taken aback as Funaki responded "INDEED", before asking them about their competition tonight in the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan. Taka laughed in the face of the Right to Censor, referring to them as "penguins" in their foolish shirts and ties. They did not look like stars; Kaientai were true stars! They were the MVPs of Sunday Night Heat, and they had a big announcement to make. Following their successful invasion of WWF New York last month, they would get to host the WrestleMania Party happening next week on Sunday Night Heat! The two made a quick getaway with glee, as Coach was left baffled. While WrestleMania would be about to get underway in Houston, Texas; live in Times Square, Kaientai would guest host Sunday Night Heat!
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A video package aired, reflecting on the transpired events in the rivalry between Chris Jericho and Raven. With the Astrodome Asylum match set to take place at WrestleMania, Raven had continued to goad Y2J into embracing a more violent side of his persona. In physical possession of Y2J's WWF Intercontinental Championship, Raven and Tori stalked Jericho as he prepared to take on Perry Saturn last Monday night on RAW is WAR. Overcoming the odds of the Radicalz including Dean Malenko and Eddie Guerrero, Jericho was able to pull off the victory before making a quick getaway. Raven sat and mocked Jericho from behind the announce table, driving Jericho to vault the table and go at it with 'the Creator'. He even fought the Radicalz off, buying Raven time to escape. On SmackDown, Raven continued to slander his rival until being challenged by 'the Big Red Machine' Kane. Raven found himself outside of the ring, when Y2J once again struck. Embracing the violence, Jericho hammered Raven and sent Tori to her doom. As Kane drilled his ex-girlfriend with a fierce Chokeslam in the ring, Y2J grew conflicted to hit Raven with the title belt or not. He shrugged and gave in to Raven's urges, but the former champ remained in a state of terrifying laughter, laying prone on the rampway! As Y2J appeared to descend, it could only spell disaster for their meeting in seven days! With no disqualifications, no count-outs and Falls Count Anywhere, anything could happen!
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Footage rolled from outside of WWF New York, filmed earlier today. In the heart of Times Square, Shawn Michaels himself appeared. The star of the show, 'the Heartbreak Kid' wore shades and a black cowboy hat. The antihero in this rivalry with longtime best friend and co-founder of D-Generation X, HBK received a rowdy ovation from the tourist crowd. HBK would be appearing on Sunday Night Heat tonight, seven days away from his WrestleMania encounter with Triple H. Following what he told Jim Ross about the news on SmackDown, was there possibility of 'the Game' being attendance tonight too?
A video package aired, rolling out the WrestleMania Memories of the past sixteen years. It all started in 1985, with countless larger-than-life Superstars being born. Moments in history were encapsulated forever, as wrestling giants such as Hulk Hogan dominated the early years. Whether he was teaming with Mr T or body slamming Andre the Giant in front of 93,000 people in Pontiac Silverdome, or selling out Toronto Skydome to come up short to the Ultimate Warrior - the Hulkster had done it all, and was sure to live forever. Other WWF Superstars had gone on to be immortalized at 'the Showcase of the Immortals'; from Razor Ramon defeating Shawn Michaels in the first-ever Ladder match in Madison Square Garden, to 'the Heartbreak Kid' cementing himself as 'Mr. WrestleMania' - lasting sixty minutes in an Iron Man match against Bret Hart to become WWF Champion. Stone Cold Steve Austin had struck gold, defeating Shawn two years later to capture his first title, with help from 'Iron' Mike Tyson himself. One year later, he defeated The Rock, carving his legacy as one of the all-time greats in sports entertainment. Last year, it was Triple H who conquered in the main event of WrestleMania - but this year, the field was open to the entire world. Which WWF Superstar would make history next week, at WrestleMania X-Seven?
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The Right to Censor stomped down to the ring for tag team competition, Bull Buchanan and the Goodfather still fired up after their meeting with Al Snow earlier tonight. Mark Henry accompanied the two RTC members, as they had given Snow a proposal lasting until the end of the night - would Al Snow join the RTC, or be on the receiving end of the beatings the RTC had become known for of late? Kaientai soon came walking out to the stage, saluting their fans with the Japanese flag, both in possession of microphones. Taka Michinoku in dubbed fashioned once again called the RTC "penguins", discussing what they had done of late to people like K-Kwik and 'the One' Billy Gunn. Little did they know, they were doomed come WrestleMania. As Taka and Funaki would be hosting the WrestleMania party to end all WrestleMania parties in WWF New York, the RTC's Ivory would surely perish to 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' Chyna. The RTC were displeased with their antics, as Funaki uttered "INDEED". Taka then had a change of heart, admitting that maybe the RTC were doomed before then - because tonight, Kaientai planned to run wild like Hulkamania, and kick their asses! The Japanese branded themselves as "EVIL", before racing down to the ring!3) Kaientai def. The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan (w/Mark Henry) (3:56)Mark Henry watched intently from the Right to Censor's corner, as just over a week ago on SmackDown, he swatted Kaientai from the ring like flies after they tried coming to the aid of 'the One' Billy Gunn. The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan hoped to take care of the Japanese duo early, only for Taka Michinoku and Funaki to strike quickly. Ducking clotheslines, a series of dropkicks and attempted hurricanranas saw Taka powerbombed into Funaki, before Bull sent both out to the floor in a heap! Henry would dump Taka back inside for a pancaking facebuster from Buchanan, allowing he and Goodfather to exchange frequent tags. Ganging up on Taka, Goodfather mocked the Ho Train, connecting with it in the corner and following up with a Samoan drop for a near fall. Michinoku was able to kick out of the corner, an inbound Bull stammering, when a springboard crossbody took the big man down! Funaki made the tag and scored with a diving tornado DDT off the second rope, before he and Taka chopped Goodfather down to size with low dropkicks. A double clothesline connected when Bull rushed in with the bicycle kick to Funaki! The referee tied up with Mark Henry dragging Taka through the ropes, Al Snow hit the ring and gave Bull Head - putting Funaki on top for the win!
Al Snow clung to Head at ringside, knowing full well that he had defied the proposal made earlier tonight to join the Right to Censor! Mark Henry was livid and came after Snow, who opportunistically backed up the rampway with a huge grin on his face. The WWF Tough Enough trainer had just gotten himself into hot water with the RTC, who had been humiliated by Kaientai as a result! Taka Michinoku and Funaki, the guest hosts of next week's WrestleMania party on Sunday Night Heat, had scored a major upset against the Goodfather and Bull Buchanan!
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Backstage at WWF New York, the time had arrived for Shawn Michaels to speak. Walking with an arrogant smirk on his face, slapping his gums, 'the Heartbreak Kid' was making his way to the stage. Up next, in a Sunday Night Heat exclusive from the heart of Times Square: HBK planned to address his WrestleMania opponent and longtime friend - Triple H!
A video package aired, as we continued to count down the days until what had potential to be the biggest match in the history of the World Wrestling Federation. They had met two years ago on 'the Grandest Stage of Them All', only now they awaited a greater destiny - in front of over 65,000 fans in the Reliant Astrodome in Houston, Texas. 'The Brahma Bull' made it incredibly clear last Monday on RAW is WAR, that he could not afford nor plan to lose to Stone Cold Steve Austin a second time at WrestleMania. As the WWF Champion and the 2001 Royal Rumble winner put pen to paper to make their match official, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' expressed how he had waited for this moment, and exactly how badly he needed to beat the Rock for the WWF Championship. Inevitably they came to blows, with Shane McMahon caught up in the middle of it. Shane O'Mac wound up left laying from a Stunner, when the Rock began stalking Austin for a Rock Bottom! Austin broke free and attempted the Stunner, just for Rock to sly away. On SmackDown, they were forced to team up to take on the WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian. Neither man trusted the other, but soon all hell broke loose as the champs introduced steel chairs. Austin came to Rock's aid, but in holding a steel chair in his hands, 'the Great One' figured it was only a matter of time: planting him with the Rock Bottom, Rock left 'the Rattlesnake' down and out. Business was about to pick up, and something had to give in the final seven days before 'the Showcase of the Immortals!'
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We returned to WWF New York, where inside of the entertainment complex Tazz was seen standing atop the stage. Hyping up the clientele and tourists of Times Square, 'the Human Suplex Machine' took the time to welcome out one of the most polarizing WWF Superstars of all time: Shawn Michaels! Galloping out to the stage to his theme music, 'the Heartbreak Kid' still brandished the black cowboy hat. Strutting back and forth, Shawn posed to the female cheers of the crowd in attendance, while split with the boos of the predominantly male audience. Tazz wanted to understand more about 'the Showstopper's methods in getting inside the head of his former best friend Triple H. Shawn arrogantly slapped his gums, wrapping an arm around Tazz. Calling the co-host his good buddy, Shawn wanted to let the whole world in on a huge secret. It might even be known amongst them - but Hunter was a massive control freak. If they didn't believe him, he wanted the video package to tell the story! A video package aired, taking us back to the Curtain Call in 1996. Also live from New York City's Madison Square Garden, a group of WWF Superstars banded together and made history, as Triple H and Shawn Michaels bid adieu to their pals from the Kliq, Diesel and Razor Ramon. Clips of the formation of D-Generation X soon followed, in what was the hottest faction going in the World Wrestling Federation in the year 1997. Hunter was ringside for the 1997 Survivor Series, where Shawn would screw Bret Hart to become WWF Champion; much like he would be for Shawn's last match before being forced to retire, at WrestleMania XIV against Stone Cold Steve Austin.
Back live, 'the Heartbreak Kid' was sickened by the behavior of Triple H back then. For a long time, he had the temerity to take 'the Game' under his wing when he was nothing but a "blue blood". Shawn Michaels took Triple H under his wing to show him the ropes, to drive him from town-A to town-Z, to become a true WWF Superstar by association here, in the WWF. Dare Shawn say it - without him, Hunter would be absolutely nobody! The WWF New York crowd turned to boos, as Shawn said how Hunter wasn't without his purposes. Once upon a time, HBK needed him. But as Triple H's ego went to his head, and his control freakish nature came out; all the while his old pal Shawn Michaels grew weaker - Hunter turned on him. He overtook him, he allowed D-Generation X to live a new life. Shawn applauded him, and was with him every step of the way. There was a time where HBK was even proud of everything Hunter had accomplished: all of the titles, the fame, the fortune, the grandeur. But if there was one thing Hunter knew deep down that he could never be - it would be 'the Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels! Shawn spoke about how Hunter headlined WrestleMania himself last year - he knew this rodeo.
While Triple H was a former three-time WWF Champion in his own right, whilst Shawn was ready to compete in his second match in three years next Sunday - the old lion had learned some new tricks. He had one hell of a reflex. He was wiser, and sure enough he would show the entire world why they called him 'Mr. WrestleMania!' Shawn Michaels talked about seeing it all and having done it all at WrestleMania. He had gone sixty minutes with the absolute best, he had innovated the Ladder match and stolen the entire show, and he had fought an entire match with a bulging disc in his spine. And after having gotten inside the head of his insecure former copadre, he knew that Hunter was just dying to get a piece of him before WrestleMania. Shawn was no slouch - he could sense Hunter from miles away. He knew Triple H was in WWF New York tonight, and questioned Tazz in his whereabouts. Tazz had no clue, when Shawn began questioning why Hunter was so afraid to decide not to come out and fight him. Deciding to open up a forum with the people in attendance, Shawn hopped off the stage with the microphone and approached the barrier. Asking fans if they were ready to see HBK kick Triple H's ass at WrestleMania, Shawn received varying responses. Finally he pointed out a fan with his cap pulled down. He wanted to know his thoughts, but as the fan looked up Shawn started laughing at the poor kid!
'The Heartbreak Kid' rattled on the pimple-faced fan in the front row verbally, returning to the stage to ask Michael Cole how much it reminded him of what Triple H was like. Shawn Michaels appeared on top of his game and then-some, soon questioning Cole in paranoia: where was 'the Game?' As Shawn continued his tirade about how Hunter had leeched off of him for long enough, and how he had betrayed him by not siding with him against Stone Cold Steve Austin - suddenly Triple H stomped out from the backstage area! 'The Cerebral Assassin' tapped his former friend on the shoulder, before sucker punching him right in the face! Shawn went down instantly, when 'the Game' started pounding into him on the stage floor! WWF New York came unglued at the shocking scene, as Shawn squirmed his way off the side of the stage. Hunter followed, only to be low blowed by HBK! Shawn laid into Hunter before driving him spine-first into the side of the stage. Shawn continued to pound on Triple H until security dragged him off of him, soon prompting Triple H to try and come after him! Separated in the commotion, as security escorted Shawn from the building, and Tazz stood in 'the Game's path, it would not be enough to hold back Triple H! He went stampeding through the crowd, following Shawn as he was escorted through the fire exit. A riot was about to break out tonight inside the entertainment complex, but in seven days come WrestleMania: absolutely nothing could stop them from tearing the other apart! |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 26, 2021 8:35:20 GMT -5
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Post by DTP. on Mar 26, 2021 8:43:30 GMT -5
 Monday Nitro - March 26, 2001
Boardwalk Beach Resort in Panama City, Florida
Live on TNT
The opening World Championship Wrestling graphic aired, before cutting to a shocking scene. We weren't live from Panama City, Florida - we were live from Cleveland, Ohio! Greeted by a familiar face making his Monday Nitro debut, Vince McMahon grinned towards the camera in dramatic fashion. In front of the WWF logo draped behind a mesh fence backdrop, the live crowd in Cleveland applauded the reputable Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation as he began talking about this was where "the Big Boys played". After so many years of success, it was only a matter of time before he bought out his competition. Tonight was the night that things would shake up once and for all. Imitating the southern pronunciation of "WCW", the WWF Owner let it be known in a move that would forever change the landscape of the sports entertainment industry: Vince McMahon had bought World Championship Wrestling! And later tonight, the Chairman would waltz out to the WWF ring on RAW is WAR, in a special simulcast - to address the future and fate of World Championship Wrestling, as they knew it!
The opening video package aired, taking us to the sights and sounds of an open-air arena. We were live on the Boardwalk Beach Resort at Spring Breakout 2001, on what was a landmark night in professional wrestling history! Fireworks lit up the skies of Panama City, Florida, as the Spring Breakers in attendance went wild. Tony Schiavone and Scott Hudson were live from ringside, calling the action on what was the Season Finale of WCW Monday Nitro on TNT! They talked about the proclamation of Vince McMahon of the World Wrestling Federation moments ago, and how the entire industry was aghast at the news. They discussed what would take place tonight, on a very special Night of Champions - all five titles would be on the line. In the marquee match-up, Scott Steiner would defend the WCW World Heavyweight Championship against Booker T, who would defend the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship - in a unification match!
We were greeted immediately by the fourteen-time World Champion, 'the Nature Boy' Ric Flair. The mainstay of World Championship Wrestling dating back decades walked out to the ring, dressed to impress in front of the Spring Break crowd in attendance. Taking to a microphone in the ring, 'the Nature Boy' wooed the people. Questioning whether he actually heard Vince McMahon say he would hold the fate of WCW in his hands, he contemplated what he really meant. Would he hold down the likes of Jack Brisco, Dory Funk Jr, Harley Race, the Road Warriors, Sting, the Steiner Brothers, himself and Ricky Steamboat, all in his palms? A passionate 'Naitch' refused to believe it. At twelve o'clock today, Ric told the people what somebody near and dear to his heart had told him, to not go out on the show tonight - for the last time ever on Turner Networks. Flair spoke of how "she" warned him not to go out and cry on live television, but how could he not? For fourteen times, he had worn the World Heavyweight Championship around his waist. Flair proclaimed WCW as the greatest wrestling organization in the world, once again citing the legends that had helped made World Championship Wrestling what it was.
'The Nature Boy' was rolling, talking about the competition in which WCW and the World Wrestling Federation had had dating back years. Ric Flair was also full of stories. In 1981, when Vince McMahon was trying to become an announcer, his father Vince McMahon Sr was on the NWA Board of Directors: and he had voted for Ric himself to become World Champion! Flair took off to the ropes, dropping bombshells he knew the Chairman would be sure to hear. Flair removed his jacket and reminded the people how he was the limousine-riding, jet-flying, kiss-stealing, wheeling-dealing son of a gun, all thanks to Vincent Kennedy McMahon's Daddy! The mainstay talked about living, breathing and sweating World Championship Wrestling, to be able to be the absolute best. It had always been WCW against the WWF, from the boys to the office. Night-in and night-out, 'the Nature Boy' talked about how it had always been the boys who had gone in and worked their asses off, to be the very best - and they weren't going anywhere. Vince couldn't hold them down, because they were WCW, and they had dropped blood for this company, with their hearts on their sleeves. Flair was insulted by the WWF Owner's purchase, questioning if he had bled for forty-five minute matches, or been on the road forty nights at a time. Flair surmised that Vincent Kennedy McMahon could not control the future of World Championship Wrestling. 'The Nature Boy' changed topics, addressing who his greatest opponent in the company was: none other than Sting. If they were going out with a bang, Flair wanted to throw out the challenge - to take on Sting tonight! Sting had not been seen since November 2000, but 'Naitch' challenged Sting to take on 'the Man', in what was to be his last opportunity - the last night of WCW Monday Nitro!
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A graphic aired, showing highlights of the four incredible teams scheduled to be competing up next. The first of five WCW Championships would be on the line, as WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions Elix Skipper and Kid Romeo of Prime Time would take on Shannon Moore and Evan Karagias; Kaz Hayashi and Jimmy Yang of the Jung Dragons; and Rey Misterio Jr. and Billy Kidman of the Filthy Animals! Four-way tag team action for the gold was up next.
1) The Filthy Animals (Rey Misterio Jr. and Billy Kidman) def. Primetime (Elix Skipper and Kid Romeo) (c), Evan Karagias and Shannon Moore & Jung Dragons (Kaz Hayashi and Jimmy Yang) to win the WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championships (5:38)Elix Skipper and Kid Romeo were the quickest-rising tag teams on the block in World Championship Wrestling, becoming the first-ever WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champions eight days prior at WCW's final pay-per-view broadcast, WCW Greed. They had defeated Rey Misterio Jr and Billy Kidman in the finals of an eight-team tournament to become the inaugural champs, but with the increased odds of competition - it was anything goes tonight, in this four-way tag team match. 'Primetime' and Kid Romeo were at a disadvantage as Elix Skipper mouthing off led to an exchange of hurricanranas and flying headscissors from Billy Kidman and Kaz Hayashi. The action soon broke out outside of the ring, with Jimmy Yang scoring an incredible turning moonsault plancha, only for Rey to soar with a springboard somersault tope to the floor! Kidman set up a springboard Shooting Star Press, only to be grounded by the aggressive champs. Shannon Moore broke the pin attempt and delivered a sunset flip only for Hayashi to break it up with a sharp kick to the back. Jung Dragons propped Moore on the top rope and executed a double-team sit-out powerbomb, only for Romeo to intercept. Kid Romeo delivered the double underhook facebuster, when Evan Karagias scored with the wheelbarrow facebuster of his own! Karagias tried following up on Kidman, only to be trapped. Misterio proceeded to come off the top rope with a springboard dropkick into the chest!
Elix Skipper frequently made the save as defending WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Champion, dropping Misterio with a belly-to-back suplex! 'Primetime' went for the cover on Rey, only for Karagias to break it up with a theatrical 450 splash! In came Jimmy Yang with a wheelbarrow suplex on Evan, but in going for the Yang Time corkscrew moonsault from the top, Shannon Moore was able to crotch the Jung Dragon off the top rope! Moore executed the Bottom's Up legdrop bulldog, when Kidman came in looking for the Kid Krusher facebuster. Karagias caught him with a neckbreaker instead, when Skipper entered looking for the Play of the Day. Interrupted by Misterio with a tornado DDT, the Filthy Animals demonstrated tag team chemistry with Kidman connecting with a sliding dropkick to the gut. It paved the way for Rey's Bronco Buster, when Kid Romeo returned. Romeo pounded on Kidman before catching Misterio's springboard hurricanrana, only to get dragged over the top rope sending both crashing to the floor! Skipper attempted the X-Plex, the straightjacket electric chair drop, on Kidman, when Karagias of Three Count broke it up. Misterio Jr made his return, delivering a springboard seatdrop to Skipper before again exiting the ring and taking out Karagias with the head-spiking springboard hurricanrana for the win!
The Filthy Animals had captured the WCW Cruiserweight Tag Team Championships on the final edition of WCW Monday Nitro, live on TNT! Panama City, Florida lit up as Rey Misterio Jr. and Billy Kidman hugged it out in the ring. They were the second-ever champs in World Championship Wrestling history, and as the losing teams in the match watched on with frowns on each of their faces, they could not help but accept the fact that on this night, Misterio and Kidman were the better men. Raising the titles high, one could only imagine what kind of future these two could share in the future - if there was a future, after tonight!
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A brief video package aired, presenting WCW Spring Breakout 2001. Young adults were everywhere, hanging out at the hotel resort, on the beach, playing games and having the times of their lives. We were live from the Panama City Boardwalk Beach Resort, and a crew of college students each gave their two cents about how awesome the experience was, with the final party animal declaring that WCW ruled!
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Vince McMahon was live on location in Cleveland, Ohio. At the Gund Arena for RAW is WAR, six days away from WrestleMania X-Seven, the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation was sat on his couch. On the phone with his attorney, he remarked in disbelief that for a final show tonight WCW had the gall to hold it in some redneck joint, in the panhandles of Florida! It did not endear him to the fans, as he gestured how appropriate it was for the WWF's longtime rival organization to go out - like that. The WWF Owner reiterated that after the night was over, World Championship Wrestling would be in his hands, with the name signed "McMahon".
A video package aired, continuing with the WCW Night of Champions: the final telecast of Monday Nitro on TNT. Looking back on the history of the WCW Cruiserweight Championship division, some of the greatest of all-time high flyers had held the gold. From the likes of Dean Malenko and Rey Misterio Jr, to Eddie Guerrero, Chris Jericho, Juventud Guerrera and Psychosis. Currently around the waist of 'Sugar' Shane Helms, he hoped to bring the entire Cruiserweight division into the 21st century.
. 2) Shane Helms (c) def. Chavo Guerrero Jr. to retain the WCW World Cruiserweight Championship (4:22)It was eight days ago at WCW Greed where 'Sugar' Shane Helms finally broke out from his shadow in Three Count to be crowned the WCW World Cruiserweight Champion. For months, Chavo Guerrero Jr had legitimized himself as the man to beat in the Cruiserweight division, but now he wanted the title back in this rematch of their hotly contested pay-per-view battle. It was all action from the get-go, as both traded offense. Guerrero was the aggressor, beating on the back of Helms in the corner. 'Sugar' Shane rallied back with some fierce strikes, only to wind up clotheslined over the top rope to the floor. Chavo set him on the top rope for a superplex, only for Shane to drop him face first instead! A diving sunset flip scored him a near fall, when Chavo cut him short with a dropdown into a surprise clothesline. Guerrero continued to hammer on Shane, a northern lights suplex getting him a near fall. The former champ was desperate for his title back on this landmark night, a back suplex paving the way for the brainbuster. Instead, Shane broke free and surprised Chavo after a technical combat of attempted moves, a neckbreaker catching the challenger off-guard! 'Sugar' Shane prepared the Sugarsmack super kick only for it to go dodged, when Chavo drove him into the mat with a T-bone suplex! Chavo again looked for the brainbuster to receive the Sugarsmack, and the ever-dangerous Vertebreaker would allow 'Sugar' Shane to retain the title!
'Sugar' Shane Helms remained the WCW World Cruiserweight Champion, despite the onset of an intense challenger in Chavo Guerrero Jr. Finally capturing the title at WCW Greed had allowed Shane's tenure in World Championship Wrestling to be a successful one, despite failing to beat Chavo several times in the past. Shane celebrated with the title high, the second defended tonight at WCW's Night of Champions!
Announcers Tony Schiavone and Scott Hudson discussed the nature of the Cruiserweight division. For years they had been a mainstay and a highlight of WCW Monday Nitro, showcasing the best smaller men the sport had to offer. They were high fliers, they were technician - most importantly of all, they were innovators. The future looked bright for WCW stars, but where did this put the Cruiserweight division moving forward? Where would WCW go from here?
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WCW United States Heavyweight Champion Booker T was backstage, contemplating where his future lied following tonight. He talked about the emotions he was feeling, how he had the opportunity to become both the WCW US Heavyweight Champion and WCW World Heavyweight Champion - both on the same night, on what could be the last night of World Championship Wrestling. For the four-time WCW Champion and eight-year veteran, he considered tonight potentially the end of a chapter, but his book had a lot more pages. No matter what happened tonight, he vowed to prove that he was one of the best that this business had to offer, and if anybody wanted to test him, they could step to him like a man! Highly focused with the unification match ahead against Scott Steiner tonight, a serious Booker declared tonight he would prove he was the best WCW had to offer over any other sucka they had - and as always, not to hate the player: hate the game!
Michael Cole was backstage at the Gund Arena in Cleveland Ohio, curious as to Vince McMahon's plans for World Championship Wrestling. Cole spoke about the fears that some WCW competitors had, that they may never receive an opportunity to compete on this level ever again. The Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation snapped at Cole, citing that it was none of his damn business. The WWF Owner didn't have time for the interview, ordering Cole to get out and wait, much like the rest of the sports entertainment industry.
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A video package aired, providing a look back on the state of the WCW Tag Team division. World Championship Wrestling had offered some of the greatest tag team combinations in pro wrestling history, dating back as far as the Rock 'n' Roll Express, the Midnight Express and the Road Warriors. The Steiner Brothers, Harlem Heat and the Outsiders were among some of the most dominant WCW World Tag Team Champions, all through the 1990s. Today, they were held by two more dominant men. Tall, big freaks of nature, Brian Adams and Bryan Clarke formed KroniK last year and had decimated every team in their way through use of their deadly arsenal of high-impact tag team moves. 3) Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire def. KroniK (Brian Adams and Bryan Clark) (c) to win the WCW World Tag Team Championship (2:57)KroniK had dominated the WCW World Tag Team Championship scene since capturing the titles back at WCW Superbrawl Revenge back in February, defeating the InSiders - Diamond Dallas Page and Kevin Nash. Last week on WCW Monday Nitro, the young combination of Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire were able to score a count-out victory against the towering veterans. Former champs in their own right, as part of the Natural Born Thrillers alongside Shawn Stasiak and Mike Sanders, Palumbo and O'Haire had broken from the pack and were out to make names for themselves no matter the outcome of this historic night. KroniK were jumped on their way to the ring by the challengers, pounding on Adams at ringside. Clark hung in there and took O'Haire down with a clothesline, when Palumbo surprised him with a highly athletic leapfrog into a dropkick! Palumbo muscled Bryan up with the fallaway slam, when Adams came in with a big clothesline in return. KroniK toyed with Chuck in the corner, trading tags and stomps into the mid-section. Clark launched Adams into the corner with a clothesline, before a double military press slam gave the champs a near fall. O'Haire made the tag and came in hot, scoring with a sequence of kicks. Adams caught him with the Death Penalty side slam, but Palumbo rushed in to make the save! He was set up for the High Times double chokeslam, but Palumbo broke out and hit two consecutive Jungle Kicks! O'Haire went up top and delivered the Seanton Bomb - crowning new WCW World Tag Team Champions!
WCW's Night of Champions continued with the second new champions crowned, in young go-getters Chuck Palumbo and Sean O'Haire! KroniK had finally been slayed by the motivated and youthful former Natural Born Thrillers members, who raised their titles high in victory after the match. Brian Adams and Bryan Clark had seen their day in World Championship Wrestling, while the future remained bright for two potential breakout stars in Palumbo and O'Haire!
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Earlier today, Diamond Dallas Page was seen hanging out at the beach explaining some thoughts that had been on his mind since the purchase was announced late last week. Vince McMahon had bought his competition at long last, and what a long and strange journey it had been to make it here. DDP said he loved every second of it and wouldn't change it anything. On this historic night, the former WCW World Heavyweight Champion wanted to express his gratitude to all of the great wrestling fans around the world for giving a kid from the Jersey Shore the opportunity to become Diamond Dallas Page. Nobody believed in him, but they did. DDP delivered the message that if you wanted something bad enough, and worked hard at it enough to get it, anything was possible. It wasn't up to the promoters who decided what was "over" - it was the fans. Page said thankyou to the WCW fans for being the best fans in the world, from himself and wife Kimberley Page - for helping him live his dream. In closing, DDP didn't believe his dream was over, and that it was time to take it to a whole new level.
A video package aired, giving us a taste of things to come. Dating back decades, once upon a time there was no championship in the world nearly as important as the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. The likes of Vader, Kevin Nash, Lex Luger, Sting, Diamond Dallas Page, Goldberg, Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage and Bret Hart had held it. With roots going back to all-time greats such as Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair, Harley Race, Jack Brisco, Terry Funk and Dory Funk Jr in their heydays as NWA World Heavyweight Champion, it was they who paved the way for the future of professional wrestling. Tonight, at WCW's Night of Champions, we would see the WCW World Heavyweight Championship become unified with the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship.
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Stacy Keibler strutted her way out to the ring, ahead of her boyfriend Shawn Stasiak's match with Bam Bam Bigelow. Climbing into the ring, the rowdy crowd on hand at Panama City's WCW Spring Breakout show wanted to see the business-suit clad Stacy take it off! She climbed into the ring and took to the microphone, asking the people in they wanted to see her dance. They responded emphatically, but Keibler digressed that it was too bad. Once again, tonight was the Shawn and Stacy Show, and they were about to take care of that ugly, tattoo-headed brute. Providing a formal in-ring introduction for her boyfriend, she described him as the man who rocked her world - Shawn Stasiak! 'The Star' climbed into the ring with intensity, as he met Stacy with a passionate kiss on the lips. Grabbing the microphone, Stasiak ordered everybody to shut up, listen and learn. Abruptly, he went interrupted by Bam Bam Bigelow!
4) Shawn Stasiak (w/Stacy Keibler) def. Bam Bam Bigelow (1:17)The stipulation leading into this match was that if Bam Bam Bigelow were to win, that Shawn Stasiak had to receive a tattoo first-hand courtesy of 'the Beast from the East'. Stacy Keibler was disgusted by the sheer sight of the veteran, who stomped to the ring with a tattoo kit in hand! Shawn 'the Star' Stasiak cut him off immediately, only to be overpowered and clobbered with a series of clotheslines. Bigelow splashed Shawn in the corner before ramming his head into the turnbuckles repeatedly, when a body slam connected. Bigelow climbed to the top rope and executed the diving headbutt, only for Shawn's girlfriend Stacy to get on the apron! Distracting the referee, Bigelow grabbed her by the blazer allowing Stasiak to low blow him from behind. Stasiak clotheslined Bam Bam down and climbed up to the top rope, only to miss a diving crossbody! Bigelow set up for the Greetings From Asbury Park over-shoulder piledriver, when Stacy latched onto her boyfriend's foot! Stasiak landed on his feet and delivered the Hangman's Noose neckbreaker, stealing the pin!
Shawn Stasiak was helped out of the ring quickly by his girlfriend Stacy Keibler, as tonight on the final telecast of WCW Monday Nitro on TNT, 'the Star' would not be receiving a tattoo courtesy of Bam Bam Bigelow! 'The Beast from the East' sat up on the mat in dismay, as Shawn and Stacy had once again proven Nitro to be the Shawn and Stacy Show!
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At the Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio, WWF Commissioner William Regal walked into Vince McMahon's office with hesitancy. The WWF European Champion and the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation had been at odds end ever since 'the Goodwill Ambassador' was promoted as Commissioner by Vince's son Shane McMahon. The Englishman remarked at the audacity of Vince to buy WCW. He had always warned him about that dreadful place, that if he had any sense he would shut World Championship Wrestling down for good! The WWF Owner believed William to be pessimistic. After all, they hired Regal but now he was thinking that that was the biggest regret he had ever made in recent memory. Regal was the WWF Commissioner Vince never wanted, thanks to his son Shane.
McMahon confidently stated that Shane O'Mac would be taken care of come WrestleMania, but tonight - he had WCW to think about. What about stars such as Kevin Nash, Lex Luger, Scott Steiner, Booker T and Goldberg? The Cleveland crowd cheered each one of their names at their very mention, when Vince did give the affirmative not to bring in some old friends, like Shane Douglas or Lex Luger. And as for 'Double J' himself? Jeff Jarrett? Much like the way he used to say his name - he was G-O-NN-E! Regal nodded and congratulated McMahon on the purchase regardless of their animosity. Vince gawked and ordered Regal out of his office, or he would have to do something about his recent promotion!
In a dark space littered with of hanging baseball bats, Sting surprised World Championship Wrestling fans with his first appearance since last November! With enthusiasm, the facepaint clad expressed how he would have never missed tonight. It was a historic night, and with the opportunity to go at it one more time with 'the Nature Boy' Ric Flair there was absolutely no way he would have missed WCW Monday Nitro tonight. The Stinger exclaimed how he and 'Naitch' had started it years ago, on the very-first Nitro on TNT in 1995. And tonight, they were going to end it once and for all. As for the fans that all wanted to know what the future held for him following this life-changing night, Sting picked up a hanging bat and let them know: nothing was for sure. Sting let it known that it was showtime, before taking off. Sting and Flair would once again do battle, tonight!
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5) Mike Awesome def. Dustin Rhodes (4:38)It had been building for weeks. Since last summer, Mike Awesome had waged a war on the older generation of a time gone by. He had pinfall victories against the likes of Sting, Booker T and Diamond Dallas Page. The powerhouse from Tampa, Florida had even managed to defeat Bam Bam Bigelow in a hard-hitting Ambulance match back at Starrcade. It was one night removed from WCW Superbrawl Revenge on WCW Monday Nitro, where Awesome left 'the American Dream' Dusty Rhodes laying with internal bleeding, and since that night Dustin Rhodes had had it out for revenge against 'the Awesome One'. Dustin came up short at WCW Greed in the Bunkhouse Stampede match, but tonight had high hopes of finally finishing the job he started, in what could be his final opportunity in World Championship Wrestling as we knew it. Dustin wasted no time carrying a Texas bullrope to the ring, only to be blindsighted on entry by Mike Awesome. With right hands and forearm strikes, Awesome was surprised by a powerslam off the ropes. The match fell out to ringside, where Dustin sent him into the announce table before choking Mike with the bullrope! It was personal to the son of 'the Son of a Plumber', but Awesome managed to drive him head-first into the ring post. A big boot and a clothesline gave Awesome a near fall, bringing him to prepare an Awesome Bomb. Dustin broke free and countered into a neckbreaker, before driving down ten punches in the corner.
Mike Awesome dropped him face-first on the turnbuckle pad before taking him down with a powerslam! Awesome set up another one, only for Dustin to break free and drive his foe into the mat with a DDT for a near fall! Dustin Rhodes was not playing around, rolling out of the ring and once again retrieving the Texas bullrope introduced earlier. Struggling with the referee as he got back inside, Dustin let the official confiscate it before delivering some shattered dreams to 'the Equalizer!' Awesome crumpled to the mat from the low kick, but when Dustin looked to follow up with the spinout suplex, Awesome managed to break out. The Awesome Bomb caught Rhodes out of nowhere, planting him down allowing 'the Equalizer' to once again put down the son of Dusty Rhodes!
It was another victory racked up for 'the Equalizer' Mike Awesome. Continuing his reign of disrespect and disrepair of veterans across World Championship Wrestling, he dominantly had his hand raised. Dustin Rhodes had brought Mike everything he had, but even still 'the Awesome One' reigned supreme. As Awesome left this storied night, how would he benefit from such a paradigm shift in the industry? Awesome's star had been on the rise for a while, and it had been known he had his sights set on the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship. What would the outcome of tonight have on 'the Equalizer's career?
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Tony Schiavone and Scott Hudson once again discussed the shocking news broke late last week, that the World Wrestling Federation had successfully purchased World Championship Wrestling. Tony could still not believe the news, that after nearly twenty years in broadcasting, doing play-by-play announcing for this great sport, that it would look to end tonight on Turner Network Television. Schiavone made note of how he had seen some of the greatest moments in this business, whether he was standing beside Ric Flair conducting interviewers, or congratulating Sting on his WCW World Heavyweight Championship victories. He had called some of the absolute best shows in this entire business, but now it was all going to go to hell. Schiavone wished all of his colleagues the best in their future, no matter what it might be, from the boys in the back to the stage and sound technicians, to the riggers and television crew. No matter what, WCW would have a legacy, and Tony spoke some bold words: telling Vince McMahon that in his opinion he could go straight to hell! Scott Hudson awkwardly brushed off Tony's remarks, citing that up next was the big one: a unification match for both the WCW World Heavyweight Championship and the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship. 'Big Poppa Pump' Scott Steiner and Booker T would go at it - up next!
A video package aired, continuing on from the history of WCW World Heavyweight Championship. In recent years, a plethora of talents had held the gold, with men such as Goldberg, Sting, Diamond Dallas Page, Sid Vicious, Kevin Nash, Jeff Jarrett and Ric Flair holding the title. Since November, it had belonged to 'Big Poppa Pump' Scott Steiner. Steiner had been unstoppable, but in his path was another man. The WCW United States Heavyweight Championship was also one of the most prestigious titles in history: since the year 1975, it had been a staple of WCW programming. On their ways to the path, the title started with reigns filled by men such as Harley Race, Greg Valentine, Roddy Piper, Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat. It became a proving ground for any star rising through the ranks, like Magnum T.A., Steve Austin, Jeff Jarrett, Big Van Vader, Diamond Dallas Page, and today - Booker T. Tonight, we would see these two champions collide with one man taking home all of the gold. Would Booker latch onto becoming a five-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion, or would the reign of 'the Big, Bad Booty Daddy' continue?
In return, Booker T hit the ring full of energy. Mentally preparing all day long, Booker struck keenly with speed against Steiner's power. He found some luck with a series of kicks, only to run into a road block after meeting with the WCW World Heavyweight Champion's belly-to-belly suplex! Steiner kept the momentum going, only for Booker to come back swinging. Sidestepping the Steiner Line, he caught the World champ off guard with a roundhouse kick! Booker continued to keep the energy going, hitting with 10 punches in the corner only for it to backfire once Steiner connected with a powerbomb. Steiner began to torture Booker in the corner with chops and mean elbow strikes, talking trash to a ringside fan. It bought Booker time to fight back, only to once again encounter a Steiner Line. Flexing his muscles, the World champ drilled the US champ with an elbow drop before cockily doing press-ups over Booker's body! Steiner dumped Booker out to the floor, where Midajah carelessly slapped him right across the face. Steiner caught Booker with an axe handle, when the action was brought back inside. Steiner set up the belly-to-back suplex, only for Booker to kick his way out! With two clotheslines and an axe kick, Booker attempted the scissors kick only for Steiner to dodge it and score with a northern lights suplex for a near fall! 'Big Poppa Pump' tried to put 'the Booker Man' down with a second powerbomb, but Booker was able to break out and land the Book End - to unify the gold!
Booker T had done what the likes of Kevin Nash, Diamond Dallas Page, Sid Vicious among others could not do, and defeat 'Big Poppa Pump' Scott Steiner for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship! On what looked to be the final edition of WCW Monday Nitro on TNT, 'the Booker Man' dropped to his knees in emotion, overwhelmed by the hard-fought journey he had gone through to get to this point. Handed both the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship and the WCW World Heavyweight Championship belts, Booker had successfully unified the titles! Full of energy and tears, Booker posed with both titles on the second rope - no doubt cementing himself as one of the best this business had to offer! Whatever pages Booker had left of this storied career, whatever came tomorrow, it could only look promising!
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Vince McMahon was seen in the Gund Arena, walking the halls at RAW is WAR. With a big announcement to make regarding the fate of World Championship Wrestling tonight, he came across Kurt Angle. Agitated from the beating received by Hulk Hogan last week on SmackDown, 'the Megastar' believed Vince to be out of his god damn mind. Buying the competition only meant that he had a whole lot more to worry about! The former WWF Champion claimed it wasn't just unnecessary to buy out WCW, it was insulting to men of his calibre. Angle pointed to himself and claimed that he was the real "Big Boy", and none of those chumps in WCW had any idea. Those WCW talents in Kurt's mind were just a bunch of washed up losers, like Hulk Hogan. Vince reluctantly believed maybe so, but reminded him of how that "washed up" Hulkster embarrassed him in front of the world on SmackDown last week. He squared up to 'the American Hero' and warned him to get his head out of his ass and into the game - he was a former WWF Champion! As for WCW's fate, it laid in his hands, and if he chose to let its legacy continue after tonight - Kurt had better watch his back, because he might just need to send him to where "those big boys play". Angle appeared threatened, as his relationship with girlfriend Stephanie McMahon's father remained on the rocks. What if the WWF Owner allowed WCW to live on after tonight?
A video package aired, taking us back to the year 1988. They had been rivals long since then, as at the first edition of Clash of the Champions on TBS, Sting made an astounding impact on World Championship Wrestling. Fighting to a sixty-minute time limit draw with 'the Nature Boy' Ric Flair only helped his star grow. They remained silent rivals, but despite Sting at one time joining the Four Horsemen, would later lead to betrayal. Sting beat Ric Flair at the Great American Bash in 1990 to capture his first World Heavyweight Championship, and the twos rivalry would extend on throughout the 1990s. On the very first edition of WCW Monday Nitro, in August 1995, Sting and Ric Flair competed, and fittingly tonight - the final telecast of Nitro on TNT - the two men who perhaps personified World Championship Wrestling far greater than any other star in company history, would do battle in the final match tonight! One last time, 'the Stinger' and 'the Nature Boy' were about to get it on, potentially for one last time!
7) Sting def. Ric Flair (8:33)There was so much history shared between these two men. Sting had beaten Ric Flair for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, a two year long journey in itself, back in 1990. They had tied for the title in a sixty-minute time limit draw. 'The Nature Boy' had burned and betrayed Sting in the past, while Sting had always found his way to get even with the sixteen-time World Heavyweight Champion, sooner or later. Close to six years since WCW Monday Nitro first went on the air and saw Flair and Sting meet on the series premiere, now, still on TNT - the final edition of Nitro - they were about to lock it up for potentially the last time in their careers! It was implied by 'the Stinger' earlier tonight in accepting Ric's challenge that the future was not a certainty on his mind, and without a doubt he wanted to go out with a big win against perhaps his greatest rival. Ric Flair meanwhile, the multiple-time living legend, had said to other wrestlers in the locker room area that tonight could in fact be his final match - the last of a thirty-year long career. Both men were loyalists to WCW, although 'the Stinger' had never once considered jumping sides throughout the promotional war. While Flair epitomized World Championship Wrestling, Sting clearly was the core of what made WCW the promotion to be in.
'The Nature Boy' styled a WCW shirt beneath his luxurious blue and silver robe en route to the ring, wooing the people of Panama City, Florida. They all respect Ric Flair, when following the commercial break, they all came to their feet for Sting! The bell sounded, and Flair offered a gentlemen's handshake - only to instead run his fingers through his hair in classic 'Naitch' fashioned. There was a lockup, when Sting was able to outmanoeuvre Flair with a series of armdrags into an armbar. Flair sucker punched his way free, but the veteran would wind up the recipient of an inverted atomic drop into a right hand. A big back body drop followed, causing 'the Nature Boy' to engross himself in a shoving contest with referee Charles Robinson - known affectionately as 'Lil Naitch'. Flair furiously threw two shoulder blocks at 'the Stinger' only to be sent down to the mat himself, when Sting targeted with a wristlock and sent Flair off into the corner. Flair flopped into the corner head-first, crumpling with a thud on the canvas! The sixteen-time World Heavyweight Champion stumbled out to the floor, unsatisfactorily looking around at the entertainment Spring Breakers surrounding them! Patiently, 'the Nature Boy' decided to recompose himself. Ric Flair calmly stepped through the ropes before engaging with another collar-and-elbow tie-up.
Sting shoved Flair off into the ropes, only to fire a shoulder block again - this time knocking Sting down. Flair took off to the ropes again, only this time to wind up on the receiving end of a military press slam! Flair climbed back up, only to flop flat on his face moments later! 'Naitch' would turn to 'Lil Naitch' for help back up to his feet, when he slickly low blowed Sting with a kick between the legs - out of sight of Charles Robinson! Flair thumbed Sting in the eyes before snapmaring his longtime foe and driving a knee drop on top of his temple. Strutting the ring, 'Slick Ric' climbed up to the top rope, when Sting was waiting right there to send him crashing down again with a body drop to the mat! Several 'Stinger' clotheslines rocked Flair, but a dropkick to catch Ric off the ropes went averted as Flair hung on! Flair immediately looked for the Figure-Four Leglock, applying it perfectly! Sting was in harm's way, Flair illegally gripping to the bottom ring rope for added leverage! Charles Robinson remained unobservant, but finally it came to his attention! Sting was able to flip the Figure-Four around on 'Naitch', with Flair screaming in pain until making the rope break! With both mainstays of World Championship Wrestling in bad shape with their legs, Flair and Sting would trade chops in the corner. Ric punched Sting between the eyes and took off to the other corner - but it only allowed Sting to execute the Stinger Splash! Flair flopped down, and the Scorpion Deathlock applied would force Flair to submit!
The fireworks went off in the skies overlooking the Boardwalk Beach Resort, as WCW Spring Breakout 2001 marvelled in the victory of the iconic Sting! 'The Stinger' limped around the ring, having his hand raised by referee Charles Robinson. In the final match of the final telecast of WCW Monday Nitro on TNT, Sting had made 'the Nature Boy' succumb to submission at the hands of the Scorpion Deathlock! This incredibly journey was ending, as Sting continued to celebrate his victory with woos of his own, before coming across a slowly recovering Ric Flair. Finally coming to, 'Naitch' would approach his longtime rival in the middle of the ring. Words were exchanged between the two, when Flair emotionally gave Sting the handshake he was looking for. With a hug and their hands raised, these two larger-than-life mainstays that had helped personify World Championship Wrestling over the past thirteen years - whether their last night in the business or not - were going out with a blast, here in Panama City, Florida! Two of the all-time greats in this business stood tall to the crowd's respectful ovation, having given it everything they had!
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Disrespectfully, the camera abruptly took us back to the Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. It was high time for World Championship Wrestling. With the fate of WCW in his hands, Vince McMahon walked the hall with purpose. The Chairman of World Wrestling Federation was on his way to the ring for the simulcast portion, broadcast across both TNN and TNT. The WWF Owner greeted a security guard warmly, as up next, the entire sports entertainment industry could be rocked to its very core with whatever the boss had in store!
We were back live on TNT and TNN, as Vince McMahon made his epic arrival at the Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. Jim Ross and Paul Heyman now called the action, as Lilian Garcia had relieved David Penzer from his ring announcing duties for the evening. RAW is WAR had replaced WCW Monday Nitro, as Vince received a loud ovation from the capacity crowd of World Wrestling Federation fans. J.R. and Heyman loudly promoted WrestleMania X-Seven coming up in six days time, 'the Grandaddy of Them All' scheduled to see for the first time ever: father against son, as Vince McMahon would meet Shane McMahon! The Chairman strutted playfully in the middle of the ring, taking to the microphone to discuss the end of an era. It was the end of a war that had gone on relentlessly, since what felt like the dawn of time. But now, after years competing head-to-head, neck-and-neck, the very same company that tried to hurt him, his family and his empire would now become his - all his! The war was over, and another war would be over this Sunday night at WrestleMania - when he struck down his son Shane McMahon once and for all! Digressing the buyout of WCW, Vince said that he hoped to end this dispute with Shane O'Mac once and for all, but at least hoped that in defeat, Shane would acknowledge that this was for his own good. On the other hand, while he and his rival son Shane were preparing for 'the Grandest Stage of Them All', tonight was undoubtedly time for celebration! It was for all of their combined efforts, because tonight Vincent Kennedy McMahon had done the absolute impossible and bought out his opposition!
It had been all across the mainstream media all weekend long, that he, Vince McMahon had purchased World Championship Wrestling. The Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation thanked the WWF fans that applauded the major business decision, but understood full well the sadness and sorrow that WCW fans could face, with there no longer being a WCW Monday Nitro. In actuality, it could prove to be an entire new beginning. Fans of WCW could be delighted to see their WCW Superstars appear, such as Booker T, or Rey Misterio Jr. The crowd cheered humbly, when Vince continued surveying for answers. They could be ecstatic to see competitors like Diamond Dallas Page, or Scott Steiner, or Kevin Nash. The crowd booed Nash, but went haywire upon hearing 'Big Poppa Pump's name. Hell, maybe Vince could break the bank and broker a deal with the biggest boys WCW had - like Goldberg, Sting, maybe even former WWF Champion Ric Flair! Cleveland were major fans of all three potential free agents spanning from tonight, but the WWF Owner added that it was ultimately up to him on what happens to WCW. Vince added that he could freely gloat over his accomplishment. He could hop on his private jet and head to Panama City, Florida to give each and every WCW star a piece of his mind...but naturally, he would never be caught dead anywhere near Spring Break! The Chairman was having fun with the fate of World Championship Wrestling in his hands, toying with the options in front of him.
Vince McMahon smirked and said he could choose to look all of the WCW talent and employees in their eyes, and tell them they were all fired - or alternatively, he could help WCW live to see another day. No matter what the competition had done to him over the years, it could be that they helped the World Wrestling Federation become what they were all looking at today. After all, they helped make him a billionaire! WCW in its own existence, had helped him build the McMahon Empire! So perhaps, somehow, he should be grateful for competition. For that, WCW could benefit greatly from living life as an unbeatable cockroach...but what if it was better dead and buried forever? The WWF Owner questioned what any other billionaire would do with such an acquisition, when suddenly his theme music started playing. The Cleveland crowd were confused, as was Vince McMahon. The Chairman requested strongly that his music stop playing, growing angrier that the production truck had cut him off when he wasn't finished. Only, on the TitanTron it was revealed that as part of the simulcast... Shane McMahon stepped out to the stage...in Panama City, Florida! There was a McMahon in World Championship Wrestling, appearing on WCW Monday Nitro live and in person! The Boardwalk Beach Resort were aghast, as were the people at the Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio! Climbing inside the ring, the son of the Chairman, whom Vince McMahon would meet in the ring in six nights at WrestleMania, gripped the microphone.
Greeting cordially, Shane asked if Vince was surprised to see him. Only he wasn't there live, on the final edition of RAW is WAR before their meeting at WrestleMania. He was in Florida this entire time, hanging out for the final edition ever of WCW Monday Nitro! Shane told his father that he knew all about how excited he was to kick his ass in the Reliant Astrodome, and how he personally planned to have Ted Turner come to WrestleMania X-Seven to sign on the dotted line, and finalize the deal. Unfortunately, that would not be possible! Looking Vince through the camera lens, Shane explained that he knew Dad would never trust him with the World Wrestling Federation. He didn't believe in him to be the heir to the throne, and he knew that all too well. So Shane did the very next big thing possible! Vince's jaw dropped in Cleveland, as he witnessed Shane O'Mac on the TitanTron, on TNT, from Panama City, explain that the deal was finalized and signed. A McMahon did now officially own World Championship Wrestling...but it wasn't Vincent Kennedy McMahon - it was Shane McMahon! Shane explained that he couldn't possibly let Vince have his cake and eat to it - now was the time for him to start take leadership of his own life. Which is why he went right out, from underneath his father's nose to purchase WCW all for himself. Shane vowed that WCW's legacy would live in his hands, and that just like at one time in the past - they would kick his ass all over again - starting with this Sunday at WrestleMania! Shane threw his fists up in the air at Nitro, while Vince remained stunned on RAW is WAR. The skies over Panama City lit up with more fireworks, while Cleveland crowd applauded Shane for such a genius, renegade move!
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An advertisement aired, set to "My Way" by Limp Bizkit. WrestleMania X-Seven was six days away, live on pay-per-view. It was 'the Showcase of the Immortals' deemed by son, 'the Grandest Stage of Them All' by others. For seventeen years, it had been an iconic, landmark event - much like the Super Bowl. On Sunday night, live from the Reliant Astrodome in Houston, Texas, two of the greatest WWF Superstars of all time would meet in the biggest match in sports entertainment history, as The Rock would put the WWF Championship on the line against his greatest rival. The 2001 Royal Rumble winner, Stone Cold Steve Austin. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' was gunning for the title he had chased through neck surgery, intensive rehabilitation, and the trials and tribulations undergone to be the absolute best the World Wrestling Federation had to offer. 'The People's Champ' had taken the WWF by storm with a massive wave of popularity in his absence, dipping into Hollywood, being renowned as the flag-bearer of the entire industry. But now, the two would meet again. There could only be one WWF Champion, and only one man standing atop the mountain. At WrestleMania this Sunday night, the entire sports entertainment industry awaited for a new era to be christened at 'the Grandaddy of Them All!'
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Post by DTP. on Mar 27, 2021 12:04:46 GMT -5
RAW is WAR - March 26, 2001
Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio
Live on TNN
One hour into the most shocking series finale of WCW Monday Nitro on TNT, we were greeted by Vince McMahon standing before the World Wrestling Federation logo. In front of a mesh fence backdrop, the live crowd in Cleveland, Ohio saluted Vince McMahon as he stood grinning full of excitement. The Chairman spoke about how some may have heard the news already by now, announcing that he had in fact purchased his competition. After all of those years fussing and feuding with the place that "the Big Boys played", in the long run the irony was not lost on him. After six long years of there being "Monday Night Wars", it turned out "the Big Boys" had played themselves. After so many years of success here in the WWF, it was only a matter of time before he went and bought his own competition. Tonight was the night that things would shake up once and for all. Imitating the southern pronunciation of "WCW", the WWF Owner let it be known in a move that would forever change the landscape of the sports entertainment industry: Vince McMahon had bought World Championship Wrestling! Later tonight, the boss smiled, the Chairman would waltz out to the WWF ring live on RAW is WAR, in a special simulcast - to address the future, and fate of World Championship Wrestling, as they knew it! Currently, the fate of WCW was now officially in his hands!
The opening video package aired, sending us to inside the Gund Arena where pyrotechnics exploded. Cleveland, Ohio was electric as we were now only six days away from 'the Grandaddy of Them All', live on pay-per-view! Jim Ross and Paul Heyman welcomed us to RAW is WAR, with WrestleMania X-Seven right around the corner. J.R. and Heyman discussed over the roars of the crowd just how groundbreaking a night it was, as Paul applauded Vince McMahon for buying out World Championship Wrestling - his own competition! Ross touted that poetically tonight would see perhaps the biggest main event in RAW is WAR history, as the two men who would meet Sunday fort the WWF Championship - The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin - were set to do battle with the Undertaker and Kane, the Brothers of Destruction! Plus, twenty-four hours after a blowout with Shawn Michaels at WWF New York, Triple H would do battle with Chris Benoit - six days before 'the Game' meets 'the Heartbreak Kid'; as well as 'the Rabid Wolverine's meeting with the Undertaker, both at WrestleMania!
Kurt Angle made his way out to the ring to kick off the final edition of RAW is WAR before WrestleMania X-Seven, the tracksuit-clad former WWF Champion looking around in dismay. The Cleveland crowd booed 'the Megastar' as he neglected to set off his pyrotechnics, clearly still reeling after the physical meeting encountered with Hulk Hogan last week on SmackDown. In the ring, the Olympic Gold Medalist angrily told the Ohio crowd that he did not deserve a single bit of the disrespect he faced from the Hulkster last Thursday night. He did not deserve the treatment he received at the hands of a fossil, a statue, named Hulk Hogan. Yet he wasn't surprised to receive it, because he knew exactly the type of guy 'the Real American' was, one that had a tendency to stab his fellow Americans in the back to get ahead! Hulk Hogan, to the people, was a larger-than-life icon in this business - but to him, and to all the rest of the guys in the back, Hulkamania was a con-job, and full of cr*p! The people booed 'the American Hero' as he spoke about how Hulk might be 'the Real American', and don the stars and stripes - but he was a sellout. Hulk had made it so that he could get whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted, because he was a star fifteen freaking years ago! Meanwhile, he was home made in America. Born and bred in Pittsburgh, he grew up and he won the Olympic Gold Medals around his waist in the 1996 Summer Olympics: with a broken freaking neck!
Kurt Angle claimed that he was living the American dream here in the World Wrestling Federation! Seventeen months into a Hall of Fame-worthy career, he was a two-time WWF Champion, the former WWF Eurocontinental Champion, the 2000 King of the Ring winner. 'The Megastar' had done it all, whilst Hulk Hogan never deserved any of the WWF Championships he was gifted with in his heyday! Angle claimed that Hogan didn't deserve the superstardom he had received, and that he wasn't the icon everybody was led to believe. And after getting lucky on SmackDown, the Olympian was confident that Hulk could not get the job done again - because if Kurt wasn't focused last week, he sure as hell was now! Angle challenged the Hulkster to go at it again, right here and now! The people cheered and chanted for the WWF Legend to appear, only for Angle to receive no answer. It made Kurt angrier, furious at the head games Hulk had to have been playing with him. He was not to be ashamed again! Kurt threatened that there wouldn't be a WrestleMania after he was finished with him, because as much a fellow patriot Hulk was, there was not another competitor that Hulk could ever meet that was 'the American Hero' he was. Angle again demanded Hulkster to show himself, only for a stage hand to climb onto the apron. Angle was now livid that he was being given orders to wrap up his speech - he was 'the Olympic Hero!'
A beside himself former WWF Champion was refusing to leave the ring and continued trash talking Hulk Hogan before the people of a disapproving Cleveland, Ohio, when Too Cool started to make their way out to the stage. Grandmaster Sexay accompanied a dancing, excited Scotty 2 Hotty, who was scheduled to challenge X-Pac tonight for the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship! Angle was defying the orders of the production truck, as he gawked at the sight of Scotty and Grandmaster arriving in the ring. With their backs turned, the people turned from loving Too Cool to despising their dismantling - once Kurt Angle jumped Scotty from behind sending him from the ring! Sexay brought some fire to Angle, only to miss a clothesline and wind up receiving the Angle Slam! But he wasn't finished yet, as Angle furiously threw off his tracksuit jacket before locking him in the Ankle Lock! Angle was sending a message of his own, directed at his WrestleMania opponent Hulk Hogan! Referees hit the ring to try and forcibly remove Angle from the hold, as Sexay continued to scream and tap out! Finally Scotty 2 Hotty hit the ring, forcing Angle to bail. 'The Megastar' was more than pleased with his handiwork, as Scotty and a crew of officials all attended to the devastated Grandmaster!
A replay aired, showing the vicious attack that Kurt Angle had carried out on Too Cool, particularly Grandmaster Sexay. Refusing to leave the ring during his calling out of Hulk Hogan, 'the Megastar' snapped and jumped Scotty 2 Hotty delaying his shot at X-Pac's WWF Light Heavyweight Championship. The Olympic Gold Medalist furiously locked in the Ankle Lock on Sexay to send a message to the Hulkster, while Sexay was left to receive some emergency medical attention backstage. The script had already been flipped tonight on RAW is WAR.
Back live, Michael Cole was standing by backstage with the WWF Divas Ambassador Debra. Cole commented that it had been a while since the World Wrestling Federation fans had last seen her, and wanted to know where she had been. The southern belle spoke about how she had been taking some time off to get her husband ready for WrestleMania X-Seven. It had been such a long journey for the man she loved, but this Sunday night was without a doubt the biggest night in Stone Cold Steve Austin's career - but she had no doubt 'the Texas Rattlesnake' could once again be the WWF Champion. Michael asked Debra for comment on whether it is a wise move for Chyna to be stepping back in between those ropes on Sunday to challenge Ivory for the WWF Women's Championship, and Debra agreed it was tough to say. 'The Ninth Wonder of the World' had suffered major setbacks: but the Playboy covergirl was also not your normal WWF Diva. After all the Right to Censor had done in the past, Debra believed that at WrestleMania, Ivory was in for a major shock!
. 1) WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho and the Fighting Holly Cousins (w/Molly Holly) def. Raven and the Radicalz (w/Eddie Guerrero, Tori and Terri) (3:22)
As Chris Jericho and Raven prepared for what was sure to be a chaotic outing this Sunday in the Astrodome Asylum match at WrestleMania X-Seven, Y2J fully remembered the brawl he had with not only Perry Saturn last week on RAW is WAR, but the entire group of the Radicalz. Last night on Sunday Night Heat, Saturn, Dean Malenko and Terri were able to steal one over the three Fighting Holly Cousins, and they too wanted revenge. At ringside, Eddie Guerrero wore his WrestleMania jersey, all the while picketing with a giant sign: demanding his own opportunity at 'the Grandaddy of Them All'. 'Latino Heat' was mad about the Radicalz being slighted, and looking to lose out on a WrestleMania moment. As Hardcore, Crash and Molly Holly squared off with Saturn and Malenko in the ring, the WWF Intercontinental Champion wasted no time charging the ring and immediately targeting his arch rival Raven! Nailing him with a flying forearm and a series of mounted punches, 'the Creator' coyly cowered to Saturn for the tag.
Jericho continued to reach out for Raven, allowing Saturn to snatch him with a T-bone suplex! The Radicalz controlled and grounded Y2J in their corner, but he was able to fire back with an enzuigiri catching Saturn. A dropkick caught Malenko in mid-air off the top rope, allowing him to tag in Crash. He was able to run wild on Malenko with ten punches in the corner, segueing into the monkey flip. Malenko popped up to be met with Hardcore's right hand, when Raven slipped in only to be blasted from the ring by Jericho! Y2J was ready to end this with Raven, fighting him off and sending him over the barricade. Into the crowd the two disappeared, with Tori not far behind! Back inside, the referee grew distracted with 'the She-Devil' Terri on the apron, when Eddie Guerrero slipped in with his picket sign! Swinging and missing Crash, he accidentally struck Saturn with it! A dropkick from Hardcore sent 'Latino Heat' packing, as Crash scored the inside cradle on Perry for the three count!
The Fighting Holly Cousins had gotten a measure of retribution on the Radicalz for last night's shady shenanigans on Sunday Night Heat, while Chris Jericho and Raven were nowhere to be seen! Hardcore and Molly raised their cousin Crash Holly's hand in the ring, while Eddie Guerrero looking on enraged at ringside. Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko had been beaten, and Terri accordingly aided to her boyfriend who appeared with a faraway look in his eyes.
Backstage, cameras were able to catch up with Chris Jericho and Raven, as the incensed WWF Intercontinental Champion continued to pummel Raven, bouncing his face off of a vending machine! The lobby was packed with reinforced security, as the fans cheered Y2J on! Jericho screamed at Raven who welcomed more punishment, soon locking him in the Walls of Jericho on the concrete floor! Raven audibly laughed through the pain, absorbing every bit of what the Canadian had to throw him! Finally, the officials showed up to break Jericho off of Raven, definitely earning their money's worth tonight on a chaotic edition of RAW is WAR! Tori helped up her sieging man, Raven, who asked Jericho if that was all he had! The Astrodome Asylum match at WrestleMania was bound to be a battle of psychological warfare!
We returned to see Too Cool in the trainer's room. Grandmaster Sexay continued to groan in agony as the doctor checked on his ankle. Scotty 2 Hotty looked on in concern, the room full of referees and backstage officials. Suddenly, Kurt Angle walked into the room causing Scotty to immediately step to 'the Megastar'. Angle appeared innocuous, simply hoping to check on the well fare of Grandmaster. He pleaded apologies, that his temper got the best of him admittedly. Scotty told Kurt he had some nerve showing up after what he did to them tonight. As far as Scotty was concerned, the time for dancing could wait. As could his WWF Light Heavyweight Championship opportunity tonight, all Scotty wanted to do right now was kick Kurt's ass. Angle challenged him to try, and he accepted. Scotty challenged Angle to a match - tonight! Angle told him he was on, but warned him not to test him before leaving. Frustrations were flaring, killing the buzz of the fun-loving Too Cool.
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Inside the Gund Arena, the people of Cleveland booed and groaned as the WWF Commissioner and WWF European Champion William Regal made his way out to ringside. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' was not dressed for competition, but simply took a seat on the headsets beside Jim Ross and Paul Heyman on commentary. Paul was honored to be joined by the Englishman whereas J.R. questioned what his motive was. Regal spoke of his disdain for a certain Texan named Bradshaw, but admitted that he had been fairly blatant as of late. Regal claimed there would be no bias matters in the World Wrestling Federation under his watch: which was why he had made this next contest. As Vince McMahon always said: "in the interest of fairness" - this is why, if Bradshaw were to win this match tonight, he would earn himself a shot at the WWF European Championship!
2) Bradshaw (w/Jacqueline) def. The Right to Censor (w/WWF Women's Champion Ivory and Steven Richards) (2:50)
He had professed sincerity and fairness in comments to Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler, but once the Right to Censor made their way out to the rampway, everybody knew that WWF Commissioner William Regal was up to no good. If Bradshaw was able to get past the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry in another in a series of handicap matches designed by the WWF European Champion, the Texan would receive a shot at payback against 'the Goodwill Ambassador'. Jacqueline accompanied Bradshaw and immediately targeted the WWF Women's Champion Ivory at ringside, days before 'the Role Model's meeting with Chyna at WrestleMania X-Seven. Steven Richards watched on too, as Bradshaw immediately stormed Goodfather and Bull Buchanan before 'the Secret Weapon' struck with a big back body drop! The RTC put the boots to Bradshaw, to Regal's delight on commentary. A double suplex struck the APA member, when the two held Bradshaw in the corner for a big corner splash from Henry! Bradshaw was soon able to fight back, with a fallaway slam for Buchanan having caught him off the ropes, when Steven Richards climbed on the apron. Suddenly, Al Snow appeared in the ring armed with a hockey stick - breaking it over the 400-pounder's spine! Goodfather and Buchanan chased Snow from the ring, when 'the One' Billy Gunn ran down to ringside, dragging Steven off the apron! Back inside, Bradshaw nailed Mark with the Clothesline From Hell - to do the unthinkable, and beat the RTC all by himself!
The WWF Commissioner was unimpressed on commentary, besmirched at the unfair interference sabotaging his plans! Bradshaw had lucked out with the assistance of Al Snow and 'the One' Billy Gunn, earning himself an opportunity at the WWF European Championship against William Regal! Jacqueline helped the Texan up to his feet, who immediately raised his fists in the air and glared a hole through the clearly frightened 'Goodwill Ambassador'. After weeks of torment and handicap matches, Bradshaw would get his match with the Englishman!
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The Undertaker was backstage getting taped up. 'The American Badass' tried stretching out after applying tape, the souvenir of a backstage brawl with Chris Benoit last week on SmackDown. With a match with 'the Rabid Wolverine' set officially for WrestleMania X-Seven this Sunday, he was joined by half-brother Kane. 'The Big Red Machine' asked if he was good to go tonight, that this was important. 'The Deadman' said that he wasn't "good", but he hadn't been good in a long time. He was ready to take 'the Wolverine' to a dark place at 'the Grandaddy of Them All', one that would make him into a scared little puppy dog. Undertaker admitted to acting like a real jerk to Kane in his pursuit of the WWF Hardcore Championship of late, but the seven-foot monster wanted to hear none of it. It was in the past - what mattered tonight, was the Brothers of Destruction making examples out of The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. They fist bumped and left to prepare, the half-brothers on the same page - what about the WWF Champion and 'the Texas Rattlesnake?'
Michael Cole was backstage in the office of the Chairman, curious as to Vince McMahon's plans for World Championship Wrestling. Cole spoke about the fears that some WCW competitors had, that they may never receive an opportunity to compete on this level ever again. The Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation snapped at Cole, citing that it was none of his damn business. The WWF Owner didn't have time for the interview, ordering Cole to get out and wait, much like the rest of the sports entertainment industry.
. 3) Big Show (c) def. Rhyno to retain the WWF Hardcore Championship (4:37)
It was back at No Way Out where Rhyno, in the eyes of 'the Hardcore Giant's mind, double-crossed the Big Show by cashing in on the 24/7 rule and taking the WWF Hardcore Championship from within his grasp. Over one week ago on SmackDown, the 500-pounder made his epic return brutalizing 'the Man-Beast' to recapture the title, in the process also laying waste to both the Undertaker and Kane. Since then, the Big Show had conducted open challenges against the likes of Al Snow and Test. Curiously, the ECW alumni never answered the call, but last week on RAW is WAR did Gore the seven-foot-two monster. Last night on Sunday Night Heat, the Big Show was even stalked by 'the Man-Beast', who again opted against attempting to get finality over the big man. Tonight was his big shot. Rhyno would surprise the Big Show as he stomped down to the ring for this title match, the battle immediately kicking off on the rampway. Rhyno continued to hammer the big man, with Show nearly teetering off the stage - only for Rhyno to deliver a big boot to fend him off! Show would lawn dart 'the Man-Beast' into a steel truss that made up the stage for a near fall, before preparing to gorilla press slam Rhyno off the stage himself! Rhyno slipped free and struck with a clothesline sending Show rolling down the rampway. Stalking the WWF Hardcore Champion, Rhyno set up the Gore just for the Big Show to dive out of the way in the nick of time.
'The Man-Beast' was send face-first into the steel steps, and a clothesline once again gave 'the Giant' a near fall. Show introduced some hardware from underneath the ring, including a steel chair which he used across his spine, as well as a trash can of goodies! Into the ring, Show used the trash can to throttle Rhyno and keep him grounded, even daring to step all 500 pounds of his weight onto the chest of 'the Man-Beast' for a near fall. Big Show got ready to finish Rhyno with the Chokeslam, but he would break free again - striking with a diving clothesline off the second rope for a near fall! Rhyno made a slow recovery before setting up the Gore once again, only to once again be met with the gigantic hand of the champion! Rhyno went down low with a kick to the groin, then chucked a trash can across the ring into Show's arms - finally plowing him with the Gore at long last! Show bailed out to the floor with a thud, when Rhyno followed for a close fall! The challenger grabbed a toolbox from underneath the ring, only to encounter a giant chop from the champion. Hoisting the challenger up on his shoulder for a journey up the rampway, the big man had cruel intentions in setting up one more Chokeslam - looking to be off the stage - when Rhyno managed to land on his feet. Rhyno struck with a Gore atop the stage, to win the WWF Hardcore Championship!
'The Man-Beast' had once again toppled over 'the Giant' to become a two-time WWF Hardcore Champion! Rhyno snatched the title from the referee and beated his chest, raising the belt in the air high for all to see. Quick to make a getaway, the official went to check on the former champ. Big Show slowly came to and questioned what had happened - and was furious to find out that Rhyno had once again managed to get one over on him!
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The Right to Censor were congregated in the backstage dressing room, with Steven Richards shutting the door and sighing to himself. Standing beside the WWF Women's Champion Ivory, the two looked at the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry in disappointment, when Steven suddenly kicked a trash bin over in rage! Steven could not believe that that redneck beer drinker Bradshaw had managed to get one over. Even worse, he had the help of that rotten reject imbecile Al Snow, and that pretty boy they had beaten up time after time again, 'the One' Billy Gunn! Steven took some deep breaths to recompose himself, giving Ivory time to express how they could not allow this to affect what they have going for them. They were the RTC, and they needed to fight back with a vengeance. Steven remarked that he was going to go beyond the call of duty tonight as a result, and planned to fight Al Snow himself. The Goodfather and Bull Buchanan questioned if that was a good move, to which Steven chuckled - Al hadn't won a match in months! There was no way he could beat Steven, or any of the RTC! Snow would seize the day he turned down the proposal to join them for a life of luxury with the RTC. His point stood meanwhile - this proved it was RTC against the world, and with WrestleMania being Ivory's night to once and for all end Chyna's career, they needed to reinforce, and needed to be as dominant as they possibly could. Steven raised his palm in the air, and the other members joined him in solidarity.
WWF European Champion William Regal was tying his shoelaces in his backstage office. The WWF Commissioner was getting ready for business, when in stomped Bradshaw prematurely. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' wisely backed behind his desk, as the Texan accompanied by Jacqueline gloated in the fact he beat Regal's boys the Right to Censor tonight! The Englishman knew all too well what that meant - that granted him the opportunity to not only kick his limey ass back to England, but the opportunity to take his title from him! Regal banged his fist on the table in protest, telling Bradshaw that it was plain and bloody simple - he's not doing it! He was the man in charge, as bestowed by Shane McMahon, and Bradshaw certaintly didn't deserve the shot. He beat the RTC, but he'd failed to beat the Radicalz, much like he'd failed to beat X-Factor! Discovering the higher ground he was on, the APA member argued that Regal said himself he would be an impartial and unbiased WWF Commissioner. Regal denied saying anything of the sort, demanding him he bugger off! Bradshaw claimed this wasn't over and left with Jackie, leaving Regal to threaten the "drunkard" and his "trollop friend" from ever seeing in-ring competition in the World Wrestling Federation again!
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In the arena, the WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian were seated in the middle of the ring...only they were seated atop two tall ladders! With Tables, Ladders and Chairs II scheduled for Sunday at WrestleMania, the cocky Canadians gloated through their sunglasses at how cool this was - all they had to do was challenge the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz to TLC II to get the best seat of the house! Edge remarked that the view was pretty from up here, but it wasn't pretty at all looking down at all the ugly people in Cleveland tonight! E&C talked trash about the Cleveland Cavaliers failing to make the NBA playoffs, and bragged about how maybe the two of them were the team Cleveland needed all along - it was just a shame they didn't deserve them! Christian spoke poetically of the greatest feats of their careers, becoming the most amazing WWF Tag Team Champions in recent memory; defeating the top WWF Superstars; taking part in Tables, Ladders and Chairs last August at SummerSlam; and being best buddies with the finest WWF Champion in history in the Coalition, Kurt Angle. All of that would never have happened, if not for their spectacular victory one year ago! Edge reminded everybody of the first-ever Triangle Ladder match encounter the three pairs of brothers had at WrestleMania 2000, and how their entire careers changed, thanks to that one night! Christian said that it totally reeked of awesomeness, because they were the very best tag team in not only the World Wrestling Federation today, but the entire sports industry as well! Edge corrected him, saying they reeked so hard of awesomeness, they would be the best thing to come on the scene in the 21st century as a whole.
From high in the air, the brothers high-fived while teasing losing their balance. Suddenly, the Hardy Boyz arrived on the scene, as accompanied by Lita! Jeff and Matt Hardy came to the ring despite the insults thrown at them by Edge and Christian, not willing to wait until Sunday. Edge and Christian panicked as the Hardys stood in the ring beneath them. They warned the North Carolinians not to do anything they'd regret - but it was too late, as the Hardys would send the WWF Tag Team Champions from the ladders with both landing atop the top rope! Christian was crotched in the process, as the Canadians miraculously evaded injury or disaster! The brothers talked angrily about the Hardys ruining their scene, when the Dudley Boyz suddenly impeded the rampway with both Spike Dudley and a table! D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley took to the ring to battle the Hardys two against two, all the while the Canadians were able to flee from the ringside area. The Dudleys struck with a 3D on Jeff Hardy, when Lita soared off the top rope with a flying headscissors for Spike! Bubba Ray grabbed the redhead by the hair, with cruel intentions in store - but her boyfriend Matt would make the save, with the use of a steel chair sending both Dudleys packing. All eyes were on everybody, with six days remaining until TLC II at WrestleMania! The champs watched from the top of the rampway, visibly more concerned than they were minutes prior - had Edge and Christian dropped themselves into it challenging their rivals to this match?
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Backstage, it was high time for World Championship Wrestling. With the fate of WCW in his hands, Vince McMahon walked the hall with purpose. The Chairman of World Wrestling Federation was on his way to the ring for the simulcast portion, broadcast across both TNN and TNT. The WWF Owner greeted a security guard warmly, as up next, the entire sports entertainment industry could be rocked to its very core with whatever the boss had in store!
We were back live on TNN and TNT, as Vince McMahon made his epic arrival at the Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio receiving a loud ovation from the capacity crowd. In high spirits with WrestleMania X-Seven coming up in six days time, 'the Grandaddy of Them All' was scheduled to see for the first time ever: father against son, Vince McMahon against Shane McMahon. The Chairman strutted playfully in the middle of the ring, taking to the microphone to discuss the end of an era. It was the end of a war that had gone on relentlessly, since what felt like the dawn of time. But now, after years competing head-to-head, neck-and-neck, the very same company that tried to hurt him, his family and his empire would now become his - all his! The war was over, and another war would be over this Sunday night at WrestleMania - when he struck down his son Shane McMahon once and for all! Digressing the buyout of WCW, Vince said that he hoped to end this dispute with Shane O'Mac once and for all, but at least hoped that in defeat, Shane would acknowledge that this was for his own good. On the other hand, while he and his rival son Shane were preparing for 'the Grandest Stage of Them All', tonight was undoubtedly time for celebration! It was for all of their combined efforts, because tonight Vincent Kennedy McMahon had done the absolute impossible and bought out his opposition! It had been all across the mainstream media all weekend long, that he, Vince McMahon had purchased World Championship Wrestling.
The Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation thanked the fans that applauded the major business decision, but understood full well the sadness and sorrow that WCW fans could face, with there no longer being a WCW Monday Nitro. In actuality, it could prove to be an entire new beginning. Fans of WCW could be delighted to see their WCW Superstars appear, such as Booker T, or Rey Misterio Jr. The crowd cheered humbly, when Vince continued surveying for answers. They could be ecstatic to see competitors like Diamond Dallas Page, or Scott Steiner, or Kevin Nash. The crowd booed Nash, but went haywire upon hearing 'Big Poppa Pump's name. Hell, maybe Vince could break the bank and broker a deal with the biggest boys WCW had - like Goldberg, Sting, maybe even former WWF Champion Ric Flair! Cleveland were major fans of all three potential free agents spanning from tonight, but the WWF Owner added that it was ultimately up to him on what happens to WCW. Vince added that he could freely gloat over his accomplishment. He could hop on his private jet and head to Panama City, Florida to give each and every WCW star a piece of his mind...but naturally, he would never be caught dead anywhere near Spring Break! The Chairman was having fun with the fate of World Championship Wrestling in his hands, toying with the options in front of him. Vince McMahon smirked and said he could choose to look all of the WCW talent and employees in their eyes, and tell them they were all fired - or alternatively, he could help WCW live to see another day.
No matter what the competition had done to him over the years, it could be that they helped the World Wrestling Federation become what they were all looking at today. After all, they helped make him a billionaire! WCW in its own existence, had helped him build the McMahon Empire! So perhaps, somehow, he should be grateful for competition. For that, WCW could benefit greatly from living life as an unbeatable cockroach...but what if it was better dead and buried forever? The WWF Owner questioned what any other billionaire would do with such an acquisition, when suddenly his theme music started playing. The Cleveland crowd were confused, as was Vince McMahon. The Chairman requested strongly that his music stop playing, growing angrier that the production truck had cut him off when he wasn't finished. Only, on the TitanTron it was revealed that as part of the simulcast... Shane McMahon stepped out to the stage...in Panama City, Florida! There was a McMahon in World Championship Wrestling, appearing on WCW Monday Nitro live and in person! The Boardwalk Beach Resort in Panama City were aghast, as were the people at the Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio! Climbing inside the ring, the son of the Chairman, whom Vince McMahon would meet in the ring in six nights at WrestleMania, gripped the microphone. Greeting cordially, Shane asked if Vince was surprised to see him. Only he wasn't there live, on the final edition of RAW is WAR, before they were to meet at WrestleMania. He had been in Florida this whole time, hanging out for the final edition ever of WCW Monday Nitro!
Shane told his father that he knew all about how excited he was to kick his ass in the Reliant Astrodome, and how he personally planned to have Ted Turner come to WrestleMania X-Seven to sign on the dotted line. Unfortunately, that would not be possible. Looking at Vince from halfway across the United States, through the camera lens, Shane explained he knew Dad would never trust him with the World Wrestling Federation. He knew he didn't believe in him to be the heir to the throne, and he knew it all too well. So, Shane did the very next best thing. As his father's jaw dropped in Cleveland, Shane O'Mac on the TitanTron from Panama City explained: that the deal had already been finalized and signed. A McMahon did now officially own World Championship Wrestling...but it wasn't Vincent Kennedy McMahon. It was Shane McMahon! Shane explained he couldn't possibly let Vince have his cake and eat it too - now was the time for him to start taking leadership of his own life. Which is why he went right out from underneath his old man's nose to purchase WCW all for himself. Shane vowed that WCW's legacy would live in his hands, and that just like at one time in the past - they would kick his ass all over again - starting this Sunday, at WrestleMania! Shane stood in the WCW ring with his fists raised high, watching as the skies over Panama City lit up with fireworks! Vince was left deflated, looking around to witness the Cleveland crowd applauding the shocking news! Shane was sure to pay dearly for this genius move!
A replay aired, taking us back to before the commercial break. As part of a special simulcast broadcast across both TNN and TNT, Vince McMahon was about to declare that World Championship Wrestling was his acquisition, his purchase. The Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation was moments from declaring what he had planned for WCW, with all of the fate in his hands - only Shane McMahon would shockingly appear live and in-person from Panama City, Florida. Standing inside the ring on WCW Monday Nitro, Shane O'Mac declared that he had outsmarted the WWF Owner: buying WCW from right out under his father's nose!
During the commercial break, cameras were able to catch up with the expectedly furious Vince McMahon, who immediately shoved the camera out of his face in anger! Michael Cole raced alongside the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation to catch a word with him, but Vince looked him dead in the eye and asked him who the hell he thought he was. He didn't have anything to say to him! Knocking the papers from his hands, the WWF Owner blew a gasket demanding to know who had been responsible for allowing this to happen! Vince believed somebody in the backstage area needed to be held accountable for Shane McMahon's genius move, screaming that his son had gotten in his way for the last time! Come WrestleMania, he would pay for it dearly, on his own life!
. 4) Kurt Angle def. Scotty 2 Hotty (2:05)
'The Megastar' was outsmarted and in his own mind, insulted by Hulk Hogan last week on SmackDown. With six days looming until WrestleMania, the battle of 'the Real American' and 'the American Hero', Kurt Angle hoped to call the Hulkster out earlier tonight, only to be given orders from a stage assistant. Angle refused to move, and in the process wound up assaulting Too Cool. Doing a number on Grandmaster Sexay with the Ankle Lock, it prompted Scotty 2 Hotty to give up his own shot at the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship against X-Pac tonight, in favor of sticking up for his best friend. Scotty was not dancing any longer, hitting the ring and immediately catching the Olympic Gold Medalist off-guard with several big haymakers. A dropkick sent the former WWF Champion for a near fall, when the expertise of Angle showed in his amateur wrestling. A double-leg takedown and some ground mounting gave Kurt the opening, when Scotty nipped up from a grounded wristlock, before arm dragging Angle from the ring. A baseball slide struck, and Scotty sent Kurt back inside for the tornado DDT! Scotty scored the bulldog and went for the Worm, executing perfectly...unfortunately, it wasn't effective. Kurt immediately grabbed Scotty by the ankle and locked the Ankle Lock in tight - forcing Scotty to tap out!
'The Megastar' was aggravated by Scotty 2 Hotty's attempt at sticking up for Grandmaster Sexay, that he planned to make Scotty suffer the same fate! Kurt Angle refused to relinquish the Ankle Lock after the bell, screaming at Scotty to blame Hulk Hogan for this. The Olympic Gold Medalist was so furious he shoved down the referee before locking the hold back in, causing Scotty to scream and tap for his life. It was the sound of "Voodoo Chile" that caused Angle to break the hold, and suddenly Hulk Hogan came walking out to the stage, dressed in full red and yellow attire! Angle was taken aback albeit furious, now more focused on the Hulkster than ever. Hogan took to the microphone, telling Kurt that this was exactly what he was talking about. Acts like this, needless distractions like this was what was holding Kurt back more than anything! The WWF Legend hoped to be encouraging to Kurt, saying that he didn't seem to understand - at WrestleMania it wouldn't just be two American heroes colliding, that it would be a dream match between 'the Icon' and 'the Megastar'.
Cleveland exploded in applause as both stood from across the ring from one another, Hulk continuing to lecturing Kurt with some damning words. This Sunday, acting like this would cost Kurt not just the popularity of the people, but his whole future in this business. For Kurt Angle, he had to win - no ifs or buts about it. He would have to face his ultimate humiliation, because Hulk wasn't slowing down for anybody. All Hogan ever wanted was the very best of Kurt Angle, but at this rate - what was Kurt going to do, when Hulkamania ran wild on him, at 'the Grandaddy of Them All', brother? Hulk warned him again: he had six days to get ready, and if he wasn't ready for him, then Hogan was about to use him as a prime example, why Hulk Still Rules! Hogan waved goodbye and counted on his fingers to Kurt, departing the ring. A beet-red Olympian was left standing in the ring, controlling his anger and seemingly waiting patiently for the dream match this Sunday!
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Backstage, X-Factor gloated in a huddle as the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac bragged about how he didn't need to defend the title against Scotty 2 Hotty tonight. Lance Storm and Justin Credible laughed at the expense of Grandmaster Sexay, with the Canadian mentioning how for an 'American Hero', Kurt Angle wasn't such a bad guy! The trio continued to talk about how sweet a weekend they would have at WrestleMania X-Seven, when shunned by the arrival of Shawn Michaels. Stopping in the halls to greet them, X-Pac greeted 'the Heartbreak Kid' with surprise. Shawn was chatty with the boys, before Justin asked what he was doing here tonight. Shawn was calm and straight to the point: there were no hijinks to be had tonight. After the blow-up they shared at WWF New York last night on Sunday Night Heat, he was here to confront his former friend Triple H. X-Pac offered their assistance, knowing how hotheaded 'the Game' was. HBK chuckled and thanked them - but he was going to do this alone. Asking for directions to 'the Cerebral Assassin's dressing room, they complied and he nodded before leaving. What was Shawn thinking?
Back live on RAW is WAR, we were met with cameras catching up to see the new WWF Hardcore Champion Rhyno crawling away from an attacking former champ, the Big Show! 'The Giant' choked Rhyno against the concrete floor, trying to cover him only for 'the Man-Beast' to defy him. The 24/7 rule had allowed 'the Hardcore Giant' to come back for the title he believed Rhyno stole from him earlier tonight, but as Big Show grabbed a table and launched it across the back of the new champ, Rhyno secured a fire extinguisher and was able to blast Show with it! As Show grabbed the referee by the throat for a Chokeslam, he threw his hands around in a crazed effort to spot Rhyno. Although as the coast was clear, Show was furious - Rhyno had gotten away! Show screamed at Rhyno to fight him like a man!
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Triple H was sat in his dressing room as we returned to RAW is WAR, telling somebody they had three minutes to talk. The camera then slowly panned out, to reveal that opposite him also sat on a chair was Shawn Michaels. The two former best friends, the two co-founders of D-Generation X, the two men that would meet this Sunday night at WrestleMania. 'The Heartbreak Kid' sat with his arms folded, telling Hunter just how crazy last night was. WWF New York was the scene of a riot, they nearly tore that entire entertainment complex down. But why Shawn wanted to speak with Hunter was incredibly clear. Shawn told Hunter that after everything that had gone down between the two of them over the last few weeks - that made them even in his book. What motive would he have to jump Triple H, six days before they meet at WrestleMania? HBK reminded Hunter of his motives the first time around. He did what he did at No Way Out, because he was mad at him for letting him eat through a breathing tube after what Stone Cold Steve Austin did to him at Armageddon. He did what he did, leaving Hunter in a puddle of blood a few weeks ago, because he was mad at Hunter for letting himself go soft. Letting him take D-Generation X and move on without him, surround himself with the worst of the worst - his ex-wife Stephanie McMahon was a safety hazard from the get-go.
Shawn Michaels reasoned that he did all of these things to make sure Triple H was awake, and that his head was still in the right place. Out of 'the Billion Dollar Princess's ass, out of D-Generation X's asses. Shawn did it for him, because he knew exactly how premiere an athlete 'the Game' could be. Last night, he got even for a lot of things, but even still Shawn wanted Hunter to realize that he still had a lot left to prove. At WrestleMania, he was stepping into a place Shawn hadn't had the ability to go to in three long years. He used to be 'the Showstopper', 'the Main Event', 'Mr. WrestleMania'. Last year, he may have headlined and walked out of WrestleMania 2000 as WWF Champion - but look how far he had fallen. Hunter remained mute, as Shawn leaned forward in his face and wanted him to prove to him that he was still 'the Cerebral Assassin' he said he was, in six days. Because Shawn wasn't here to make friends, he wasn't here to make sure he was awake any longer. From this point on, Shawn wanted to make a point that he couldn't hunt what he can't kill, and that he was still every bit of the man he was back in 1998. Triple H chuckled, telling his old friend that was one hell of a speech. He did have a lot to prove, and maybe he can't be hunted - but the last thing they were, was even. 'The Game' slowly stood up and told Shawn that despite his come-to-Jesus meeting and all, while he still thought of Shawn as an idol, he was still every bit an enemy to him.
Triple H said they may have been friends, but he didn't need anybody's support any longer. He had lived, breathed, eaten and slept this business for years, but now he was waking up. Now was his time, and he didn't need Shawn's pity, his ex-wife's pity, his old friends' pity - now was 'Game' time. Hunter stood up, telling him this Sunday at WrestleMania, he couldn't wait to face Shawn - but he planned on making him regret he'd ever gotten involved with him in the first place. Shawn was left smirking, accepting of the battle ahead on Sunday. Up next, 'the Game' was set to meet Chris Benoit!
5) Triple H def. Chris Benoit by disqualification (5:38)With six days remaining until their respective battles with Shawn Michaels and the Undertaker, for Triple H and Chris Benoit, two men that had shared a hatred of one another for many months, neither man could afford to lose tonight. Triple H had just met with Shawn Michaels in an intense locker room conversation, denouncing 'the Heartbreak Kid's efforts to smooth things over. It was sure to be a classic at WrestleMania X-Seven, though the same could not be said for 'the Rabid Wolverine' days away from his meeting with 'the American Badass'. Benoit even dared to jump Undertaker backstage on SmackDown, poking 'the Big Dog' who believed the World Wrestling Federation was his yard. Undertaker had be getting focused on the Brothers of Destruction's main event match with the Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin, but one had to imagine 'the Deadman' had his eyes on the outcome of this one. There was no love lost as these two men immediately came to blows in the center of the ring. Benoit launched chops at 'the Game', while Triple H pounded Benoit back. Reversing a whip into the ropes, Triple H missed the high knee only for Benoit to get the waistlock. Looking for the German suplex, Benoit hit a drop toe hold and took 'the Game' into a front facelock, focusing on grounding him. Triple H got his foot on the rope, and in coming back up was able to big back body drop Benoit over the top rope to the floor! The battle continued at ringside, with 'the Cerebral Assassin' coming for Benoit, sending him into the steel steps! Benoit was soon able to rake the eyes of Triple H, charging him spine-first into the announce table.
'The Rabid Wolverine' continued to sound off with some hard chops, when 'the Game' fired back only to walk into a big clothesline from the Canadian! Benoit took Triple H back inside and began to wear him down with a seated abdominal stretch, transitioning into the cross-armbreaker. Triple H was in danger with six days until his meeting with Shawn Michaels, and considered tapping out only to make it to the ropes! Benoit was annoyed and picked 'the Game' up for the German suplex, only for Triple H to elbow out and deliver the facebuster across the knee to 'the Crippler!' A stunned Benoit walked into the Pedigree, but Benoit was able to reverse into the Sharpshooter! Wisely, Hunter could have tapped with days until WrestleMania, but opted instead to fight it - able to make the ropes again! Benoit grew agitated and soon left the ring to grab a steel chair. 'The Wolverine' had cruel intentions, lining Hunter up just to walk into a toe kick, the Pedigree attempted again - reversed out of, into the Crossface! Triple H was trapped with nowhere to turn, but somehow rolled out for a near fall on Benoit! The Canadian got back up and ducked a clothesline, striking with three consecutive German suplexes! Benoit went up to the top rope for the Diving Headbutt, but 'the Game' rolled out of the way! Triple H got ready for the Pedigree on Benoit, when inexplicably X-Factor hit the ring to jump 'the Game!'
The WWF Light Heavyweight Champion X-Pac and his boys Lance Storm and Justin Credible were keeping themselves busy tonight, attacking Triple H and depriving him of certain victory! The champ was scheduled to defend his title against Scotty 2 Hotty earlier tonight only for Kurt Angle to be responsible for its postponement. After offering their services to Shawn Michaels before his locker room conversation with 'the Game', X-Factor now appeared to have gone rogue - X-Pac lining Triple H up with a title belt shot to the face! It was revenge for the sledgehammer beating received last week on SmackDown, and X-Pac strutted around the ring standing tall.
Suddenly Shawn Michaels came waltzing down to the ring. Full of arrogance, 'the Heartbreak Kid' had loved what X-Factor had carried out in attacking Triple H - potentially softening him before their match come WrestleMania. HBK smiled as he climbed into the ring, joining X-Pac, Lance Storm and Justin Credible in standing over 'the Game's fallen body...before Shawn abruptly gave the WWF Light Heavyweight Champion some Sweet Chin Music! HBK fought off Storm and Credible with right hands, before grabbing the steel chair Chris Benoit had introduced, causing X-Factor to flee! X-Factor's service was not appreciated by 'the Showstopper', as he turned back to look at Triple H. 'The Game' was confused by the entire situation and elected to roll out of the ring, talking trash to Shawn! This rivalry between two former friends was so personal, so combustible - at WrestleMania X-Seven Shawn and Hunter would meet to determine who the better man truly was!
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Stone Cold Steve Austin walked the halls backstage, when approached by Jonathan Coachman. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' immediately cut the Coach off, asking him if he was stupid or living under a rock. Here we were, six days away from WrestleMania X-Seven: the night he comes for The Rock's WWF Championship. How did Coach think he felt, having to team up with the same sorry son of a b*tch that thought too hard about whacking old Stone Cold over the head with a steel chair? Austin let it be known he didn't know what was going through 'the Brahma Bull's head, but he sure as hell didn't trust his excuses. Tonight, 'the Rattlesnake' and 'the People's Champ' were set to coexist again against the Brothers of Destruction. With under a week until 'the Grandaddy of Them All', and the biggest match of their lives, they were expected to coexist. But it didn't phase him, because he was dead set on one thing and one thing only: raising hell, and opening up a can of whoopass! Whether it was the Undertaker, Kane, or The Rock - tonight was a night to remember, as would WrestleMania this Sunday. It would end with Stone Cold stomping mudholes, walking dry, and once again becoming WWF Champion - because that was the bottom line.
A video package aired, overlooking childhood photos of 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' Chyna. Growing up through the years to become a bodybuilding goddess, turned sensation for women everywhere, the Playboy covergirl spoke about how she had waited her entire career for this Sunday, at WrestleMania. Sat alone in a chair, she spoke honestly about the devotion and dedication she had put in to make it here: with the opportunity ahead to change the lives of an entire generation. This Sunday night at WrestleMania, she planned to give it her absolute best against Ivory. After everything the Right to Censor had done, causing her neck trauma and threatening her career, beating the so-called 'Tenth Wonder of the World' was all that she wanted. To become WWF Women's Champion was a dream to her, and she wanted to be a superhero. That is, until the RTC tried to take her dream away. Shots of Chyna working out intensively in the gym were shown, her training documented in the run-up to the biggest match of her career to this point. Chyna said that she would not be denied, and the women and girls that looked up to her could count on her to win this Sunday night. Two losses and two health concerns wouldn't stop her, because she didn't give a damn about her health anymore. All she wanted to do was achieve the dream she had chased since she was a little girl herself - to become WWF Women's Champion, to inspire millions, and to kick Ivory's ass beyond repair!
Back live on RAW is WAR, D-Lo Brown was once again enjoying his newfound fortune in the skybox. Overlooking the Gund Arena, D-Lo sat on an expensive leather couch, surrounded by snacks, with basketball playing on a plasma screen television! Kevin Kelly hoped to get a few words from 'the Real Deal', as he scoffed at being bothered. Brown wondered why they wouldn't just leave him alone. He was being paid even more to simply even show up tonight! What else could D-Lo need? He had a nice couch, all the finest snacks money could buy, and the big game on the screen. If he wanted to ignore and shut out the ugly, loud and obnoxious fans of Cleveland, he could - by closing the windows, and putting on his headphones. Brown ordered Kevin out of his private skybox, and concluded by saying that he didn't need to care about winning matches, winning titles, or even competing at WrestleMania. This is where he belonged now, collecting on his own success, and enjoying 'the Grandaddy of Them All' with the best company the world could offer - his own! Kelly left the scene, leaving D-Lo to reach over and enjoy some salad while reclining on his sofa! The money had gone straight to his head.
6) Steven Richards (w/The Right to Censor) def. Al Snow (w/Billy Gunn) (3:31)
Al Snow was offered a proposal to join the Right to Censor by the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry last night on Sunday Night Heat, just to refuse it and cost the RTC their match against Kaientai. Earlier tonight, Snow assisted Bradshaw in overcoming the three brutes of the movement in a handicap match, causing Steven Richards to make a statement. The Right to Censor were ordered to stay strong leading into WWF Women's Champion Ivory's title defense against Chyna this Sunday at WrestleMania, and Steven was confident enough to challenge Snow to this match, knowing full well how Snow had not won a single match since last Autumn! 'The One' Billy Gunn stood in Snow's corner, as Steven tried jumping Al before the bell. Snow swiftly fired back, the WWF Tough Enough trainer able to strike with a sit-out spinebuster for a near fall. Snow stomped away at Steven in the corner, when Bull Buchanan distracted him. Richards bailed out to the floor, but as the referee started counting him out, the Goodfather mowed Snow down with a big clothesline! Billy pursued Bull just to be stopped by Mark Henry, as Steven choked Snow in the corner. Richards was arrogant and saluted to Ivory at ringside, when a headlock was applied. Snow swiftly fired up out of it, catching Richards with a powerbomb off the ropes! Al planted Steven with the Snow Plow, covering, when Buchanan tried getting into the ring! Billy charged and clotheslined him out to the floor, but 'the Secret Weapon' fired with a big right hand to Snow! Richards rolled Snow up, stealing the win!
Al Snow remained winless in the year 2001, as Steven Richards won big off the assist from Mark Henry! 'The Secret Weapon' climbed into the ring to prevent Al Snow from grabbing Steven by the tie, immediately jumping him. Out on the floor, Billy Gunn continued attacking Bull Buchanan, when the Goodfather fired from behind. The WWF Women's Champion Ivory raised her title in Billy's face, talking trash about his girlfriend Chyna, whom she was set to meet at WrestleMania on Sunday. Into the ring, the Right to Censor dumped Billy Gunn. Laid side by side with Al Snow, Mark Henry prepared to hit the ropes for a big splash, when K-Kwik came darting down the rampway! D-Lo Brown in the skybox spat out his soda upon sight, as K-Dawg ran wild with an axe kick for Goodfather, and the scissors kick for Buchanan! The Right to Censor shuffled from the ring, furious at the sight of K-Kwik standing in the ring, in support of Billy Gunn and Al Snow! From his private skybox, D-Lo was angry to see the man he betrayed having his moment, choosing to turn off his plasma screen television in protest!
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Michael Cole was standing by outside the dressing room of 'the People's Champ', who had to be amplified for the major tag team main event tonight. We would hear from The Rock up next, as he prepared to team with WrestleMania adversary Stone Cold Steve Austin to battle the Undertaker and Kane of the Brothers of Destruction - tonight!
We returned to RAW is WAR to see Vince McMahon on the phone to his attorney. Letting his outrage be known, he could not believe nor stand the news made by his own son Shane McMahon earlier tonight. There was absolutely no way Shane O'Mac could own World Championship Wrestling - it was the WWF Owner that bought out WCW! On loudspeaker, the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation sighed in regret as the attorney explained how it was a done deal, that Shane was the one who signed the contract, and there was nothing more to be done about it. Shane had usurped his father and paid with it from his own bank account, outbidding the WWF! Vince cursed and hung up on the attorney, when through the open door to his office came a passing by Trish Stratus. She shyly asked if everything was alright, to which the boss humbly confided that Shane was ruining his life, but it would be okay. Assuring Trish that he had beaten WCW once, and if Shane dared even show up to WrestleMania this Sunday for their match - Shane would be joining his newest acquisition in a cold, wet grave. Trish put a reassuring hand on the Chairman's shoulder before leaving him to wallow. Shane had some unbelievable grapefruits of his own.
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Michael Cole was standing by with the WWF Champion The Rock as we returned to RAW is WAR. Cole spoke about how the stakes had never been higher, that tonight would see perhaps the biggest match in the history of RAW is WAR. The Rock and his opponent come WrestleMania, Stone Cold Steve Austin would be forced to coexist to battle the Brothers of Destruction - the Undertaker and Kane. The Rock interrupted Michael, agreeing that the stakes had been raised, that tonight, six days ahead of the biggest match in all of the World Wrestling Federation's history, we would see another biggest match. It would be bigger than Austin against Vince McMahon, maybe bigger than Austin against the Undertaker. Why? Because tonight, the Rock and Stone Cold - career rivals, WrestleMania adversaries, two men with a dream and a deathwish to boot - would team up to take on the gruesome twosome, the residents of Mockingbird Lane: the Undertaker and Kane. Rock said that this wasn't about business, about WCW or McMahon against McMahon. This was all about two men that absolutely despised one another to their very cores, getting prepared for the most important night, on the most lucrative stage in all of sports entertainment. Preparing by teaming up, despite the mistrust, the controversy, who lays the first blow - it was all incredibly sensitive!
Earlier tonight, The Rock claimed to have heard Stone Cold Steve Austin talk about how he didn't trust 'the People's Champ', and Rock sent a message to Austin saying exactly the same thing. This Sunday at WrestleMania, neither man could afford to lose, so neither man could afford to lose or be weakened by whatever happened tonight. At 'the Grandaddy of Them All', there was no going back. Reliant Astrodome would be the point of no return, for both Austin and the Rock. Rest assured, it would be without a shadow of a doubt, the biggest battle of Austin's life, to see if he still had what it took to go one-on-one with 'the Great One'. To that, the Rock had to say that he had waited long and hard for this very moment. For April 1, it had been two years in training. Beyond WrestleMania XV, Rock was born and raised into a wrestling family. From humble beginnings, Rock scratched and clawed to make it to the big time. Here we was now, twenty-seven years later - a six-time WWF Champion, future big-time Hollywood actor in the making. Rock had done it all, as had Austin, but his days were sooner to be behind him. So tonight, with their bodies on the line, and with the future at stake, the Rock proposed to Austin to give it everything he had tonight...and on Sunday, Rock guaran-damn-teed he would be the best man to win. If Ya Smell What the Rock is Cookin'.
Stone Cold Steve Austin left his dressing room prepared for war. With six days remaining until the 2001 Royal Rumble winner's appointment with fate against The Rock at WrestleMania X-Seven, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' first had to coexist with the WWF Champion tonight. The Brothers of Destruction were spotted leaving their own dressing room, the Undertaker and Kane also prepared for battle. 'The American Badass' continued to shrug off the beating received backstage by his WrestleMania opponent Chris Benoit, from last week on SmackDown, walking alongside his half-brother, 'the Big Red Machine'. We were bound to see perhaps the biggest match in RAW is WAR history - coming up next!
We returned to RAW is WAR at the announce table, where Jim Ross and Paul Heyman discussed WrestleMania X-Seven coming up live on pay-per-view in six days, this Sunday night! From the Reliant Astrodome, Houston, Texas would never be the same! The Rock would defend the WWF Championship against arch rival Stone Cold Steve Austin; WWF Owner Vince McMahon for the first time ever would fight his son, the new WCW Owner Shane McMahon; Triple H would face Shawn Michaels in a battle of former friends; Kurt Angle would face Hulk Hogan in 'the American Hero' against 'the Real American'; The Undertaker would fight for respect against Chris Benoit; Chris Jericho would take on Raven for the WWF Intercontinental Championship in an Astrodome Asylum match - with no disqualifications, no count-outs, pinfall and submission only in a Falls Count Anywhere environment; for a second year in a row, Edge and Christian would meet the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz for the WWF Tag Team Championships, in Tables, Ladders and Chairs II; Chyna would challenge Ivory for the WWF Women's Championship; plus, in a new match announced tonight - the Right to Censor's the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry would do battle with Billy Gunn, Al Snow and K-Kwik!
. 7) WWF Champion The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin def. The Brothers of Destruction (8:25)
So it had come down to this. Six days from what had potential to be the most epic encounter of two future all-time greats of the business at WrestleMania X-Seven, The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin first had to coexist one more time against the united forces of the Undertaker and Kane. The WWF Champion and his challenger, the 2001 Royal Rumble winner, had previously teamed up on SmackDown last week, able to get the job done against WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian. The Canadians got themselves disqualified in the process, and plotted to equalize 'the People's Champ' with a Conchairto just for 'the Texas Rattlesnake' to intercept. The Rock would fend Edge and Christian off as a result, but was caught red-handed with a steel chair in his hand. Austin saw Rock and didn't trust him, further driving the wedge between the two men vying for the spot at the very-peak of the World Wrestling Federation. Something had to give, as they prepared for the biggest match of each of their storied careers - but first they had to go through the Brothers of Destruction. The Undertaker and Kane had also shared problems in the past, both pursuing the WWF Hardcore Championship for themselves at one time. 'The American Badass' was sore from a backstage beating received from Chris Benoit - who Undertaker will meet this Sunday night. There was so much on the line and at state, and one had to wonder who would have the momentum on their side leading into 'the Grandaddy of Them All?'
'The Texas Rattlesnake' and 'the Brahma Bull' brushed shoulders as they each arrived in the ring, immediately engaging in a staredown ahead of WrestleMania - just for the pyrotechnics of Kane to shoot up across the stage. The Brothers of Destruction were united as one, the Undertaker and Kane engaging in some trash talk with their WWF Championship calibre foes. All hell broke loose in an instant, with all four men duking it out with hard rights and lefts exchanged! Stone Cold attempted to put a beating into 'the Big Red Machine' in one corner, as 'the Great One' lit the Undertaker up with right hands in the corner. Undertaker turned the tables on the WWF Champion, before walking right into a Lou Thesz press from Austin! 'The Texas Rattlesnake' sent 'the American Badass' to the floor for a brawl, while inside Rock continued to fire shots in on the seven-foot monster, just for Kane to cut him off with a huge uppercut, followed by a sidewalk slam off the ropes! At ringside Austin was sent into the barricade, allowing the brothers to focus their attention on dissecting the WWF Champion. The Rock tried to fight back repeatedly, only to encounter a big legdrop from 'the Deadman' for a near fall. Cleveland was on the side of the 2001 Royal Rumble winner to make the tag, as Rock was soon able to cut the Brothers of Destruction's dominance off with a double clothesline! The floatover DDT combatted Undertaker, when Rock tagged in Austin! Like a house on fire, 'the Texas Rattlesnake' stomped a mudhole on Kane in the corner, before he was able to fire back with a palm strike to the throat!
'The Big Red Machine' plotted the Chokeslam, only for Austin to kick his way free and plant the seven-foot monster with the Stone Cold Stunner! The Undertaker made the tag as The Rock tried tagging back in from Austin, to 'the Rattlesnake's dismay. 'The American Badass' struck with the Chokeslam on Stone Cold, when Rock was able to send the veteran over the top rope with a big clothesline! Rock lined one of two men for the Rock Bottom - would it be Austin? Instead, the Rock Bottom connected on Kane, when Rock was dragged to the floor by 'the Deadman!' Austin covered Kane for a near fall, as Rock sent Undertaker into the steel steps! Rock wanted the tag desperately, but instead Austin came to his feet, and chose to flip Rock off! Austin turned back to Kane who sat up and caught him by the throat, immediately catching him with the tilt-a-whirl slam! The Undertaker made the tag and decided to prop Austin over his shoulder for the Tombstone Piledriver - when Austin slumped free! Stumbling into a blind tag from the Rock, the WWF Champion laid into Undertaker with right hands and caught him with the Samoan drop - when Kane again came from behind! The Brothers of Destruction looked for a double Chokeslam on 'the People's Champ', when Austin came in to raise hell on Kane with a Lou Thesz press! Stomping him from the ring, Undertaker came from behind looking for the Last Ride, but Austin shoved free taking out the referee!
The referee was down and hurting after the Undertaker was shoved into his path by Stone Cold Steve Austin, who stalked 'the American Badass'. The Stunner was attempted, but 'the Deadman' reversed out into the Chokeslam! Undertaker had the match won, with Kane and The Rock battling outside the ring...when Chris Benoit came out to the ring, armed with a steel chair! Sieging after his match with Triple H earlier tonight, 'the Rabid Wolverine' struck with a brutal steel chair shot to the spine of his WrestleMania opponent! Rock shot in and delivered a spinebuster taking down another arch rival in 'the Rabid Wolverine', before stalking Undertaker for the Rock Bottom - to pick up the win!
It had to have been in part thanks to Chris Benoit, but once again The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin had reigned supreme as the victors of an all-action tag team main event - six days from their WWF Championship date with destiny, come WrestleMania! The WWF Champion raised his hand as the victor, when 'the Rabid Wolverine' once again came from behind with the Crossface applied! Benoit refused to let up, still bitter about being deprived of his own WrestleMania main event spot for the title! Finally, Kane hit the ring with a big Chokeslam for Benoit. 'The Big Red Machine' momentarily aided to his fallen half-brother, when Stone Cold entered the ring with Benoit's steel chair - slamming it off the skull of the seven-foot monster! Austin fended off allcomers, whether Benoit or Kane - when suddenly he turned around to be met with the Rock Bottom from the Rock! The WWF Champion made the first move before Austin had the chance, leaving him laying. 'The People's Champ' stood tall over the carnage surrounding the ring, raising the WWF Championship high. Rock would have hell to pay, before WrestleMania!
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Post by DTP. on Mar 28, 2021 10:58:02 GMT -5
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Post by ✖ AJ on Mar 29, 2021 10:37:00 GMT -5
That Mania card is stacked - especially that six man tag team match!
Glad to see you reaching this point, man. Looking forward to WrestleMania and what you potentially have to come afterward. #INVASION?
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Post by DTP. on Mar 29, 2021 20:08:28 GMT -5
SmackDown! - March 29, 2001
Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan
Broadcast on UPN
Taped on March 27, 2001
A video package aired, taking us back to what was a massive edition of RAW is WAR this past Monday night. The night got off to an immensely hot start, as WWF Owner Vince McMahon officially declared that he had purchased his rival competition - World Championship Wrestling. All night, the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation was optimistic yet secretive with his plans for the future of WCW. In a special simulcast, he took to the ring to make the official declaration on both TNN and TNT...just to be met by son Shane McMahon. The father and son on a crash course for WrestleMania X-Seven, Shane O'Mac was live from the site of the final WCW Monday Nitro. From Cleveland, Vince had to watch as Shane declared that he had bought WCW right out from underneath his Dad's nose! Flash-forward an hour later, it was an intense tag team main event contested as The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin engaged in battle with the Undertaker and Kane. The two rivals that would meet for the WWF Championship on Sunday would come out on top against the Brothers of Destruction, with the uninvited assist from 'the American Badass's WrestleMania opponent Chris Benoit. In the heat of the action, Austin cleaned house of Benoit and Kane with a steel chair, before encountering the Rock Bottom of 'the People's Champ!'
The opening video package aired, bringing us inside the Joe Louis Arena for SmackDown! We were three days away from 'the Grandaddy of Them All' this Sunday, live from the Reliant Astrodome in Houston, Texas! WrestleMania X-Seven was sure to be a spectacular event, but tonight Michael Cole and Tazz would welcome us following the pyrotechnics in Detroit! We were scheduled for another big night of action, as former nemeses Triple H and Kurt Angle would butt heads, days ahead of their confrontations with respective foes Shawn Michaels and Hulk Hogan; we would see Chris Benoit meet the Undertaker's half-brother Kane one-on-one; plus, the WWF Champion The Rock and 2001 Royal Rumble winner Stone Cold Steve Austin would air their grievances in an exclusive sit-down interview with Jim Ross!1) Team Xtreme def. The Dudley Boyz (5:35)Tables, Ladders and Chairs II was coming up in merely three days time, but tonight we were scheduled to see the three members of Team Xtreme go against the three brothers of the Dudley Boyz. After sabotaging WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian's cocky presentation atop the ladders in the ring on RAW is WAR, the Hardys and the Dudleys had a grudge dating back to the first-ever tables match in World Wrestling Federation history, back at the 2000 Royal Rumble. Lita and Spike Dudley started out, having come to blows in a hotly contested match last week on SmackDown. The former WWF Women's Champion surprised Spike with a series of armdrags, and a spinning headscissors off the ropes. Spike came back with a wristlock takedown, before a side headlock allowed him to take Lita down. She broke out, only for Spike to take her by the hair and drop her with the Russian legsweep! Edge and Christian suddenly made their way out to the stage, immediately taking seats atop a table. It distracted the participants in this intergender six-person tag team match, when the Hardys and Dudleys went at it! Jeff Hardy scored with Whisper in the Wind on D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley, when Matt came in to work over Spike. The runt of the litter blocked the Side Effect and made the tag to Bubba, who hoped to double-team Matt Hardy just for he and D-Von to encounter a double clothesline! Matt tried swinging for D-Von, only to walk into the aided back suplex from the Dudleys! The Dudleyville natives hammered Matt in the corner, as Lita riled the people up for Matt to get back into it.
The WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian watched with insincere expressions, rooting for both the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz to come out on top. Matt Hardy was set up for a diving senton off the second rope from Bubba Ray Dudley, only for Matt to roll out of the way. The tag was made to Jeff Hardy, who came in wild with dropkicks and a jawbreaker to D-Von Dudley! Rolling out to the floor, Jeff followed in hot pursuit with a vaulting clothesline off the barricade! Matt leapt over the top rope with a crossbody plancha onto Spike and Bubba Ray, when all five men in the match came to their feet for Lita to dive off the top rope with a big crossbody of her own! The battle continued inside where Matt attempted the Twist of Fate just for it to go prevented by the Dudley Boyz with a double flapjack! Jeff Hardy hit the ring hoping to fire back at both Dudleys, just to be caught with the 3D! Lita was the only one to stand a chance, scoring with the diving hurricanrana off the top rope on D-Von! Lita whipped her shirt off to the cheers of the men in the Detroit crowd, only to be surprised as Spike Dudley struck with the Dudley Dog run-up bulldog, out of the corner! Spike wound up struck with the Twist of Fate from Lita's boyfriend Matt, allowing Team Xtreme to score the three count!
Edge and Christian mocked congratulatory applause for the Hardy Boyz and Lita, as Matt Hardy checked on his girlfriend in the ring. Jeff joined his brother in having their hands raised by the official, as Team Xtreme glanced towards the rampway at the WWF Tag Team Champions. Tables, Ladders and Chairs II would be a blockbuster meeting, perhaps greater than either of the three teams' previous instalments! Suddenly, the Dudley Boyz struck back with a vengeful attack! D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley sent Jeff and Matt out to the floor, when Bubba grabbed Lita by the hair! Screaming for D-Von to get the tables, this had to have been on Bubba's deviant mind for weeks! D-Von and Spike complied, setting the table up in the corner, when Edge and Christian curiously came charging down to ringside. Hopping to the apron, the Canadians were swatted away by the Dudleys, allowing Lita to make way - and the Hardy Boyz came back with right hands for the Dudleys! As the Dudleys bailed out to the floor, Edge and Christian put the boots to them - when Jeff and Matt came soaring over the top rope with simultaneous somersault planchas! TLC II was sure to be off the hook this Sunday at WrestleMania!
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In the parking lot of the Joe Louise Arena, a stretch limousine pulled up. The license plate read "WCW1", personalized especially for the talk of the industry following Monday night. In his first appearance since announcing to the world that he had outwitted his own father and purchased World Championship Wrestling out from underneath Vince McMahon's nose, the driver got out to open the door...for Shane McMahon. Full of poise and confidence, Shane O'Mac resembled the WWF Owner in a lavish suit. With a smile Shane walked, but with Vince McMahon also in attendance tonight...how long would he be smiling for?
Big Show was standing in the dressing room area with a look of disapproval on his face. The former WWF Hardcore Champion was still without the title taken from him by Rhyno this past Monday night on RAW is WAR, and was devastated by it. Kevin Kelly hoped to get 'the Hardcore Giant's reason for requesting this time to talk, and Show questioned if it wasn't obvious enough. Complaining about how 'the Man-Beast' got lucky on RAW, Show wondered what kind of a Rhyno ran away from his challenge. Show was finished with the disrespect, the gall of a man that considered himself the epitome of "extreme". He told Kevin he thought Rhyno was an ugly little coward, and if the WWF Hardcore Champion didn't come and confront him tonight, then he would be going to WWF Commissioner William Regal and demanding it be made official - live, this Sunday at WrestleMania X-Seven - Big Show putting an end to Rhyno's sad little career!
. 2) Kane def. Chris Benoit by disqualification (4:22)'The Rabid Wolverine's problems with the Undertaker were still developing by the week, as Chris Benoit continued to repel 'the American Badass's warnings to respect "his" yard here in the World Wrestling Federation. Finally, Undertaker prevented Benoit's attempt assault of Steve Blackman last week on SmackDown and formally challenged him to a match at WrestleMania X-Seven - to beat some respect into Benoit - but in doing so, Benoit would come from behind a corner and assault Undertaker right there in the backstage corridor! Adding to that, Benoit cost the Brothers of Destruction their match with The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin on RAW is WAR with a violent chairshot to 'the Deadman', though half-brother Kane would get even with a major Chokeslam! The match started with Benoit baseball sliding 'the Big Red Machine' to the floor upon entry, the brawl breaking out at ringside. Kane fired back with throat thrusts and uppercuts, sending him sailing into the steep steps! Back inside, Benoit hit a missile dropkick from the second rope, only to encounter a sidewalk slam. Kane hoped to continue with a tilt-a-whirl slam, only for Benoit to latch on with the Crossface attempt! Kane blocked it, when an armringer sent Kane to the canvas. Roping Kane's arm and slamming it repeatedly across the ring apron, he applied a fujiwara armbar to the seven-foot monster, when Kane was able to get the adulation of Detroit on his side - powerbombing his way free! 'The Big Red Machine' struck hard on the comeback, coming off the top rope with a flying clothesline for Chris Benoit! 'The Rabid Wolverine' tried to score a German suplex on Kane, just to be swatted away. Kane nailed the tilt-a-whirl slam before stalking for the Chokeslam, when Benoit inexplicably kicked Kane with a low blow, in full sight of the referee!
Chris Benoit bailed from the ring quickly, as 'the Big Red Machine' feigned injury to his fireballs. Kane grabbed the referee by the collar in anger, immediately revealing that he hadn't been affected at all by the low blow. Furious with the disqualification decision made, Kane hoisted the official up with a Chokeslam to the Detroit crowd's delight - when Chris Benoit returned with a massive steel chair shot to the spine! The seven-foot monster was rocked, when Benoit followed with a DDT on top of the chair! Kane was pancaked on steel, but Benoit was not done yet, locking on the Crossface on a prone monster.
The half-brother of 'the American Badass' could be heard screaming in pain, when the Undertaker finally came stomping down the rampway! 'The Deadman' was not impressed with Benoit, and immediately came to strikes with 'the Rabid Wolverine!' Undertaker was done talking, hell-bent on teaching Benoit to respect his yard, when Benoit struck with a series of German suplexes. Benoit picked up the steel chair and swung, only to encounter the Undertaker's big boot instead! The chair launched into Benoit's face and the Canadian bailed from the ring, smirking all the while. 'The Deadman' checked on his half-brother Kane, livid with hell to pay for Benoit! They had never met in the ring one-on-one before, but what kind of animal would Benoit have to be, to further desecrate 'the Deadman's yard?
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Shane McMahon walked the halls of the Joe Louis Arena, met with strange looks from nearby WWF Superstars such as Essa Rios and Steve Blackman. The new Owner of World Championship Wrestling was all smiles, when Jonathan Coachman approached Shane wanting to get his thoughts on what went down this past Monday, live from Panama City, Florida for WCW Nitro. Shane O'Mac explained that he didn't need to tell anybody anything, but he felt it was worth mentioning. This might be the World Wrestling Federation, and he might respect with what his father Vince McMahon had done with it. That did not mean to say he didn't agree with what his Dad was doing with it. The problem was, Shane had tried his best to protect the common decency of the company, and to maintain the bond between the WWF and its fanbase. Only Vince didn't want that, and he wasn't going to give any part of his company to his son Shane. So Shane decided to do the next best thing, and buy his competition out from under his nose. This wasn't just a scare tactic for Dad, to get him riled up and angry for their match at WrestleMania - this was for himself! But with that said, Shane promised that this Sunday night at 'the Grandaddy of Them All' - the WCW Owner would defeat the WWF Owner in the middle of the ring! Shane excused himself, now heading off for the ring!
Backstage, the fight was on as Big Show had gotten his wish almost immediately! The WWF Hardcore Champion Rhyno thrashed the former champ with the use of a wet floor sign, only for the 500-pounder to come back with a fierce headbutt! Charging Rhyno with a splash against the brick wall, he covered for a near fall. 'The Man-Beast' again started to crawl away, when Rhyno used a door to hold himself up. Ramming Show's head into the door, Rhyno stumbled through - it was WWF Commissioner William Regal's office! 'The Goodwill Ambassador' jumped to his feet in a fright, immediately standing up on his chair, as Rhyno and Show duked it out with some fierce haymakers! Rhyno used the WWF European Champion's nameplate as a weapon to stun Show, as the two aburptly battled once again out of the apron! Regal screamed at them to get out, immediately following them out into the hall. All the while, from behind one of the curtains came Bradshaw carrying a hip flask! Ensuring the coast was clear, the Texan set to face the Englishman on Sunday at WrestleMania opened the teapot's lid, and poured the hip flask's contents into his kettle! Regal was in for a whole new experience.
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The WWF Women's Champion Ivory made her way out to the ring, accompanied by Mark Henry, the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Steven Richards. RAW is WAR was not the Right to Censor's strongest night, as Steven held his nose from a blow given by Al Snow in their match three nights prior. Standing in the middle of the ring, 'the Role Model' took to the microphone to air her grievances. With WrestleMania X-Seven coming up in three days, she spoke of it being another molehill to climb, as far as the World Wrestling Federation was concerned. The likes of Billy Gunn, Al Snow and K-Kwik would not know what hit them come Sunday, because the RTC planned to be on top form. For far too long they had been conspired against by WWF Superstars simply tooo stubborn and stupid to acknowledge the landscape of the future.
Billy Gunn, Al Snow and K-Kwik would not know what they were up against, when they faced the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry. Going forward, Ivory preached that the Right to Censor were here to stay, and change the landscape of sports entertainment, just as they had proven time and time again. Whether 'the One' Billy Gunn and his loser buddies, the winless Al Snow or the foul-mouthed poet K-Kwik - or even her old, crippled friend Chyna - none of them stood a chance! 'The Tenth Wonder of the World' spoke out about Chyna, having seen her video package on RAW is WAR - Ivory was not afraid of her, and nothing would stop her from ending her career for a third time this Sunday at WrestleMania. The RTC planned a clean sweep coming, when K-Kwik suddenly interrupted! K-Dawg hit the ring with no time for rapping, set for singles action against Bull Buchanan!
3) K-Kwik def. Bull Buchanan (w/The Right to Censor) (2:47)The Right to Censor were not pleased with how Monday night turned out for them on RAW is WAR, as the trio of Buchanan, Henry and Goodfather would be beaten by Bradshaw in a handicap match, with an outside assistance from Billy Gunn and Al Snow. Then, later that night as Steven Richards stole the victory against Al Snow with help from the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry - it would be K-Kwik who made the save for them against the villainous RTC. Six-man tag team action had been confirmed for WrestleMania, and K-Dawg wasted no time in scoring with a spinning flying forearm for Bull Buchanan. Bull bailed out to the floor when the rapper hit with a baseball slide, immediately backing away an intruding Goodfather. Steven Richards squared up to K-Dawg with a staredown, allowing Bull to strike with a big boot! Back inside, Bull went to work on K-Kwik with a chinlock, when K-Kwik tried making a comeback. Cutting him off with a springboard clothesline off the top rope, Bull connected with a diving legdrop for a near fall. Bull sized K-Dawg up for a bicycle kick only to miss it, when a roll-up was attempted for a near fall. The scissors kick was executed, when WWF Women's Champion Ivory tried getting into the ring to distract the official! Mark Henry climbed inside behind the referee's back, when Billy Gunn and Al Snow hit ringside, dragging 'the Secret Weapon' back out to the floor! Bull missed a second bicycle kick, and K-Dawg struck with the sit-out suplex known as the Mic Check - to capitalize on the win!
The Right to Censor's week on the Road to WrestleMania was not going swell, as K-Kwik celebrated his victory to the affection of the sellout Detroit crowd! Unfortunately, as Mark Henry and the Goodfather jumped Al Snow and 'the One' Billy Gunn at ringside, inside Steven Richards dared to jump K-Dawg from behind. The rapper responded furiously and cornered Steven, when WWF Women's Champion Ivory struck from behind with a low blow!
It was hypocrisy in the Right to Censor's name, but as Steven floored K-Kwik with a Steven Kick, Chyna marched out to the stage! At ringside Gunn and Snow held off Henry and Goodfather, as 'the Ninth Wonder of the World' immediately climbed into the ring and scared Steven from the ring! Ivory realized that she was all alone and tried running herself, but it was too late. With WrestleMania coming up this Sunday night, Chyna took the WWF Women's Champion down to the canvas and started tearing at her shirt, her scarf and her skirt - leaving her exposed in the ring, in her bra and granny panties! 'The Role Model' had been humiliated and scattered from the ring, into the covering arms of the RTC members. Chyna stood tall beside her boyfriend Billy, Al Snow and K-Dawg in the ring - and at this rate, WrestleMania was sure to be a long night for the RTC!
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An exhausted WWF Commissioner William Regal was sighted returning to his office, quivering after the brutality he had presumably witnessed in the backstage brawl between WWF Hardcore Champion Rhyno and the Big Show. 'The Goodwill Ambassador' took a seat behind his desk and poured himself some of the spiked tea, but before getting the opportunity to sip from his teacup, the WWF European Champion went interrupted by Jonathan Coachman's intrusion. The Coach wanted to ask Regal what had happened with 'the Man-Beast' and 'the Giant', to Regal's detest. They were fighting, was that enough for him? Regal was furious, wanting just a minute of peace - he had Bradshaw to worry about at WrestleMania, there were grown men using his office as a playground for tomfoolery and violence - why couldn't everybody let him have a moment in privacy? Regal confirmed that he was making it official for Sunday - Rhyno would defend the WWF Hardcore Championship against the Big Show - then demanded Coach get out! Jonathan complied and departed, when Regal took a sip from his cup. Fascinated by the taste of tea and whatever alcohol Bradshaw had poured in there, the Englishman grimaced some grotesque facial expressions.
Triple H was seen gearing up for battle. After the confusing scene three nights ago on RAW is WAR, a long discussion with WrestleMania rival and former friend Shawn Michaels leading to 'the Heartbreak Kid' rescuing 'the Game' from a three-on-one beatdown courtesy of X-Factor, in walked Kevin Kelly with questions for him. Kevin wanted to understand what HBK's role was in Hunter's mind, to which he responded that Shawn had no role. Were they friends? Absolutely, they rattled the World Wrestling Federation's cage to its very core, and they co-founded D-Generation X, and were two of the greatest minds to ever arise in the WWF. Were they friends now? Absolutely not. On Sunday at WrestleMania, he expected nothing but the best that 'the Showstopper' still had. Shawn wanted to prove he was still 'Mr. WrestleMania', but after all Shawn had done to him and put him through - he wasn't holding back for a second. There was something poetic about facing Kurt Angle tonight, three days before he proved to 'the Main Event' that he was the main event, no longer. 'The Megastar' started this journey, taking his wife Stephanie McMahon, stealing WWF Championship victory after title victory from him. He lost it all - his wife, DX, his friends he trusted most. But now, he was chasing redemption - and he would continue to do it all by himself, all alone. He planned on kicking the Olympic Gold Medalist's ass tonight, and on Sunday, he would prove he was that damn good, by taking Shawn Michaels out of his life for good.
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The Fighting Holly Cousins were backstage chatting in the hall, as Crash and Molly Holly remained ecstatic at WrestleMania X-Seven being merely days away. Hardcore Holly remained more deadpan, dissatisfied with their lack of opportunity. They should be WWF Tag Team Champions right now, and Molly the WWF Women's Champion! Past them waltzed Raven with Tori. Hardcore couldn't resist, questioning what the demented man was looking at. Squaring up to Raven, he asked how he liked being the joke of the entire company. Raven bounced back, considering it ironic Hardcore was not as hardcore as he said he was. Raven professed proudness in the fact he was the man everybody loved to hate in the World Wrestling Federation - but the difference was he had everything he wanted. Stretching his arms wide, Raven said he'd see when he was crowned WWF Intercontinental Champion again this Sunday in the Astrodome Asylum match, and Hardcore could envy watching with envy. This infuriated the stern veteran, who slapped him across the face and told him that Chris Jericho could wait - tonight, he was planning to school his ass! Hardcore walked away tensely, leaving Crash to appear threatening in Raven's face. It didn't work. Molly shot daggers at Tori in leaving, while Raven shook his head and chuckled.
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We cut abruptly to the parking lot of the Joe Louis Arena, where WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian were apparently not yet finished with the Dudley Boyz ahead of WrestleMania X-Seven's Tables, Ladders and Chairs match! The Canadians were psyched up and openly calling D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley out to a parking lot fight, to get it over with! Who needed WrestleMania, or TLC II, when they could have themselves a parking lot kickass brawl here in the Motor City? The Dudley Boyz were seen navigating the corridors backstage, seemingly accepting the challenge after a fiery encounter with Team Xtreme earlier tonight! Meanwhile, a backstage assistant knocked on the locker room of the Hardy Boyz, who popped their heads out and were informed that the Dudleys had apparently called the Hardys out to a parking lot fight! Jeff and Matt Hardy accepted the challenge and came marching out. Returning to the parking lot, the Dudley Boyz had arrived at the scene - only there was no Edge or Christian! D-Von and Bubba bellowed out for them, when answered by the darting Jeff and Matt Hardy! The champs were playing 3D chess with their challengers come WrestleMania, as the fight was now on, with a crew of backstage officials and referees on hand to force the two teams to break it up!
A replay aired, showing what went down before the commercial break. WWF Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian, the master manipulators, had successfully managed to turn the Dudley Boyz and the Hardy Boyz against each other! Personally calling out D-Von and Bubba Ray Dudley out to a parking lot brawl, the Dudleys would answer the call - only they had a backstage assistant inform Jeff and Matt Hardy that it was the Dudleys calling them out! During the commercial break, the fight would continue between the two teams, when Edge and Christian swept in with the use of two steel chairs - swinging them wildly and leaving Bubba, D-Von and Matt Hardy left laying unconscious on the floor! Jeff tried to fight his best against them, but wound up desolated himself - the result of a rocky Conchairto! Tables, Ladders and Chairs this weekend at WrestleMania was sure to make Edge and Christian's lives incredibly hard, courtesy of their challengers the Hardys and the Dudleys.
In the dressing room area, Jim Ross was surrounded by several lighting technicians and sound engineers. J.R. was prepared to deliver with an exclusive sit-down interview with the two headliners of Sunday's WrestleMania X-Seven encounter later tonight, with both The Rock and Stone Cold Stev Austin. Neither the WWF Champion nor the 2001 Royal Rumble winner had arrived yet, and Ross remained patient as he awaited hearing from 'the People's Champ' and 'the Texas Rattlesnake'.
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Having arrived to the Joe Louis Arena in a limousine marked with "WCW1" as the license plate, Shane McMahon now waltzed out to the stage adorned in the three-piece suit resembling of his father Vince McMahon! Shane O'Mac had really done it this time, purchasing World Championship Wrestling right from out under his father's nose, as announced via the simulcast this past week on RAW is WAR. As Shane climbed into the ring, he made as though WrestleMania's father versus son encounter meant little to him, confidently grasping the microphone. Shane said how nobody could have ever seen it coming. He sent shockwaves through the sports entertainment industry three nights ago, and now: he was the one who owned WCW - not his arrogant, brash and cocky old man, Vince. Shane explained the rumors had been ripe all week long, that his dear old Dad was about to score the biggest purchase of the industry's industry. Vince was to rock the boat, the stock exchange, and business trades alike by creating a monopoly for himself! But that's just how his old man was - pompous, inconsiderate, and selfish! Shane could not simply stand by and watch his monster of a father sabotage sports entertainment like that. Shane wondered if Vince ever considered the hundreds he was to send into unemployment by buying WCW from Ted Turner. He doubted it, because he knew exactly how neglectful Vince was. Since a child, he had been neglected much like Stephanie had. Since the XFL, Vince had neglected the World Wrestling Federation. Since Linda, Vince had neglected his better judgment for a company in need of a new leader...and since Shane had his attention, he knew full well Vince no longer had time for his dear, sick wife - and his mother - Linda McMahon.
Shane McMahon chuckled in regret that he hadn't thought of it sooner. But he kept an optimistic mind that Dad would be giving and fulfilling of him in charge. Shane was the heir to the throne, and it took him too long a time to figure out that his father would never hand over the kingdom. What baffled Shane most was how Vince could have had the entire world in his hands. He could have expanded the McMahon Empire to lead the entire industry, had only he allowed Shane leadership of his precious World Wrestling Federation. Clearly, for Vince, the war would never truly be over. Shane declared he purchased WCW from under his dad's watch because he didn't deserve it - he wasn't the man he said he was, nor would ever be. Full of lies, acts of defiance, treacherous betrayals dating back decades - and most importantly - his lack of manhood; all of those factors failed to compare to his own greed, and his own distorted perception of reality! Shane didn't respect his own family, which is why he announced to the world in Detroit tonight: that on Sunday, when the WCW Owner kicks the WWF Owner's ass at WrestleMania, Shane had an entire new era to reign in for World Championship Wrestling. He planned to humiliate Vince in the worst way, at his own creation - 'the Grandaddy of Them All!'
Vince McMahon cut Shane McMahon off, the opposite of what happened last Monday night. Shane O'Mac was prepared for war ahead of WrestleMania X-Seven, asking the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation to bring it on. Instead, his Dad came strutting out to the ring, but with a huge smile on his face! The WWF Owner climbed into the ring and confronted his son, immediately refusing to make eye contact before taking a microphone for himself. For the first time since the challenge for 'the Grandest Stage of Them All' was made ten days ago, father and son shared the same ring, with Vince raising his palms in innocence. Vince confessed to Shane that he had heard it all out of his rotten son's mouth already. Vince had had enough too. He had had enough of the infighting, their rivalry tearing the McMahon Family name to shreds, and bringing up their personal grievances on the air across network television. Vince admitted that quite frankly, he was sick and tired of dealing with Shane, but was man enough to admit that he was bested on RAW is WAR. While Vince stood acting pompous in Cleveland, Ohio, boasting and bragging about buying World Championship Wrestling, little did he know...his son Shane had similar ideas. Little did he know Shane was down south in Panama City, Florida - even littler did he know that he had been outbid by Shane. However what Shane failed to learn about this situation they had the misfortune of sharing was just how high the stakes had been heightened.
Instead of father against son this Sunday at WrestleMania X-Seven, and perhaps more importantly than McMahon versus McMahon this Sunday at 'the Grandaddy of Them All', it would now mean their match in three days would in fact be WWF Owner opposing the WCW Owner. Never in the history of sports entertainment had two bosses stepped foot inside the squared circle, and fought for company supremacy. Vince asked Shane if he realized how important a match this was, because now Vincent Kennedy McMahon wasn't coming to kick Shane McMahon's ass for the betterment of the McMahon Family - Vincent Kennedy McMahon was coming to kick Shane O'Mac's ass for the betterment of the World Wrestling Federation! Gulping with reassured confidence, Shane listened as his old man explained that he could confess to being bested by his own son...but it would not mean he would forgive him for all that he had done over the past year! Raising his voice, Vince claimed that Sunday would be Shane's worst nightmare come to life, because now they were business rivals, Vince had decided to up the ante just a little bit further. Their match at WrestleMania would no longer be just any old normal match - it would now be a Street Fight! Shane mouthed off to Vince McMahon with poise, he clearly had no problem with the added stipulation. But Vince told Shane to hold on, because there was more... The WWF Owner told the WCW Owner, as well as the rest of the world watching that in the Street Fight between father and son this Sunday night, it would be contested by the only man fit for the job - somebody Shane McMahon knew incredibly well!
Suddenly, the sound of a car crash was heard - and out came Mick Foley! Shane O'Mac's jaw dropped in astonishment, as Vince McMahon grinned from ear to ear! Detroit was loud for the former WWF Commissioner, as 'the Hardcore Legend' came hobbling down the rampway, saluting the people of the Joe Louis Arena! Climbing into the ring, Mick stood and posed on the ropes, as the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation smirked accordingly admitting that was why he was in such a good mood tonight! Foley took the microphone away from Vince, getting right into the face of Shane O'Mac. Asking if he remembered making his job increasingly hard for him all of those months, with the Coalition supporting him, Mick wasn't bitter at all. What Mick was bitter about was being fired on Christmas night, with a pregnant wife, two kids and a third baby on the way - all because of Shane O'Mac! Mick let it be known that he might not care for Vince, and admitted that he was the devil, but if there was one thing himself and the rest of Detroit couldn't wait to see - it was Shane and Vince duelling it out in the Street Fight this Sunday, at WrestleMania! Mick looked Vince dead in the eye, then turned to glare a hole through Shane McMahon, swearing to god that as impartial a special guest referee he would be this Sunday - he sure hoped the McMahon Family beat each other to a pulp! Bidding the participants a nice day, Foley saluted the capacity crowd with his fist in the air before leaving. The score had been upped, with McMahon against McMahon - now WWF Owner against WCW Owner, in a Street Fight with Mick Foley as the special referee!
A replay aired revealing Vince McMahon's master plan against new WCW Owner Shane McMahon. Ahead of their WrestleMania X-Seven confrontation between father and son, the Chairman of the World Wrestling Federation let it be known to Shane O'Mac that their match would now be a Street Fight - before revealing Mick Foley as the special guest referee! Making his first appearance since Christmas Day 2000, 'the Hardcore Legend' declared that he couldn't wait to call it down the middle, but selfishly hoped both periled in the heat of battle!
Back on SmackDown, Stephanie McMahon could still not believe the news. In her boyfriend Kurt Angle's dressing room, 'the Billion Dollar Princess's mouth gasped at the news that Mick Foley had been called back by her father Vince McMahon! 'The Megastar' entered the room prepared for action against Triple H tonight, when asked if he had heard the news. Steph relayed the information about the Street Fight, and the return of 'the Hardcore Legend'. Angle simply questioned why he should care - he was in the zone preparing for her ex-husband tonight, and Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania. Stephanie reminded him of what they all had a part in doing to Mick Foley as part of the Coalition last Christmas. Shrugging it off, 'the American Hero' suggested that it spelled bad news for her brother Shane McMahon.
Unintentionally, Kurt brushed off Steph's stupid family, and questioned why she should care either - she was the one who desperately didn't want to take any sides! Stephanie was upset by the news from her boyfriend, who reiterated how dead set he was on hounding Hulk Hogan's ass at WrestleMania, because he was not taking another step back. He was the Olympic Gold Medalist, a former two-time WWF Champion, and now without the Coalition around, there was only one thing he wanted more than anything - to reach the superstardom he already had had, and become a three-time WWF Champion! Steph groaned and got up to leave, with Kurt questioning where she was going! Steph told Kurt that maybe he needed to deal with his own problems, just like she had to with hers. Kurt grunted, accidentally driving the wedge between himself and Stephanie once again.
. 4) Raven (w/Tori) def. Hardcore Holly (w/Crash and Molly Holly) (4:19)Sunday was scheduled to see some psychological warfare take place, as Raven had seemingly successfully driven the WWF Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho over the edge. Stealing the physical title belt from Y2J's possession, the two brawled backstage where Jericho showed no restraint with the Walls of Jericho applied on Raven in the lobby area. The Astrodome Asylum match was sure to be physical, but Raven had made the mistake of antagonizing Hardcore Holly, who was after some major opportunities of his own between now and WrestleMania X-Seven. With the Fighting Holly Cousins supporting him, Molly scowled at Tori from across the ringside area, when Raven engaged with Hardcore in a fist fight! Hardcore bellowed the challenger to Y2J with fierce right hands, a dropkick off the ropes connecting sending Raven out to the floor. where Crash Holly made him jump by jumping off the steps! Hardcore battled him back into the ring when Raven landed with an elbow drop. Aggressively putting the boots to Hardcore, he choked and pounded at the back of his head. With arms wide open, Raven was confident, when slapped across the face again by Hardcore! Delivering a powerbomb for a near fall, Raven rolled to the apron before low blowing Hardcore out of sight from the referee. Connected with the Evenflow DDT, Raven covered but Crash distracted the referee! Molly came off the top rope with a missile dropkick on Raven, when Tori jumped at Molly! The two rolled around the canvas out to the floor, while Hardcore's attempt at the Alabama Slam went blocked - the Evenflow DDT delivered again, this time for the three count!
Raven had his hand raised in victory, while at ringside Crash Holly managed to pull Molly Holly off of Raven's girlfriend Tori. Returning to the ring, she hugged her boyfriend from behind and handed him the WWF Intercontinental Championship belonging to Chris Jericho, when suddenly the lights went out. The countdown began, bringing a pyrotechnical blast over the stage!
Raven seemingly invited the once-again emerging Y2J, only for Chris Jericho to show up on the OvalTron! In a dark room, Jericho sat much like Raven did, confessing to the sins of which he had done in the past week. The truth was that for a long time, Jericho and Raven were as similar as they could possibly get. They both listened to sleazy thrash metal, they both liked to pick fights with anybody, and it was true that for a long time he could not stand the feeling of deodorant on his flesh. But the truth was that he and Raven were not the same, because no matter how much Raven tried, no matter how much he or his wench Tori could do to nudge him over the edge, Y2J would continue to do exactly what he wanted. Jericho said Raven stole his title, he took his blood, he caused him to lose control - but this Sunday at WrestleMania, when they got it on in the Astrodome Asylum. With no disqualifications, no count-outs, no holds barred and falls count anywhere - it would be a bloodbath. Jericho planned to make sure that Raven truly would never, ever be the same again! Jericho would show no restraint, no regrets, and no mercy on his sludgy, trashy, disgusting ass! Y2J mocked Raven from the back, warning to "Quoth the Jericho, Nevermore!" Raven looked perturbed, as did Tori from the ring - this Sunday was sure to be an unpredictable fight, until only one man remained standing!
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Backstage, the WWF Commissioner William Regal stumbled merrily down the hallway. It appeared the WWF European Champion had indulged in some of Bradshaw's special tea combination earlier tonight, and bumped into the two members of Kaientai. Taka Michinoku and Funaki spoke in their booming dubbed voices, greeting 'the Goodwill Ambassador' with sincerity. They asked if he was excited for their special presentational party this Sunday night. Live on MTV on Sunday Night Heat, they were to host the WrestleMania Pre-Game Party from WWF New York in Times Square - only a baffled Regal ordered them to do him a favor and speak bloody English!
The two were confused and continued to speak in their broad Americanized voices, when a dazed Regal invited them to take on Bradshaw tonight. Kaientai accepted, when Regal continued stumbling down the hall, now bumping shoulders with the former WWF Commissioner Mick Foley! 'The Hardcore Legend' asked Regal if he smelled something, then questioned the Englishman if he had been drinking. Regal slurred his words in thanking Mick, who in turn wished him the best in his new role. Mick spoke fondly of his time as 'the Commish', when Regal hiccupped. Before departing, Mick did have some parting words for Regal however - he looked pretty unkept tonight: it would be in his best interest to smarten up for a job of this magnitude! Foley wished Regal a nice day, when Regal slumped backwards over a table!
We returned to SmackDown where the fight was on once again between the WWF Hardcore Champion Rhyno and the Big Show! It was the battle of two monsters, 'the Man-Beast' and 'the Giant' duking it out, when the former champ sent Rhyno through a door backstage! Show barged open the door in hot pursuit, only to see 'the Big Red Machine' Kane inside! Having received medical attention after his battle with Chris Benoit earlier tonight, the seven-foot monster used a steel bedpan over the cranium of 'the Hardcore Giant', before dumping Kane onto the medical bed and laying in some fierce punches! The trainer panicked and immediately screamed for assistance, prompting a crew of backstage officials to once again storm the room, immediately able to restrain Show from the scene, all the while Kane grunted and exclaimed that he wanted Rhyno! Kane appeared to have inadvertently inserted himself back in the title hunt!
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In the arena, Perry Saturn, Dean Malenko and Terri accompanied the picketing Eddie Guerrero as he surlily waltzed down the rampway to the ring. The Radicalz were thwarted in recent six-man tag team action by the forces of Chris Jericho and the Fighting Holly Cousins alongside Raven, but all that remained on Eddie's mind was where the group fit into plans for this Sunday's WrestleMania X-Seven event. With a microphone in hand, Eddie brandished a sign reading "WrestleMania Heat'' high in the air. Sarcastically saying he could not wait for WrestleMania, he was looking so forward to everything that would happen. Whether it was Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock going at it for the WWF Championship, or father and son Vince and Shane McMahon kicking each other's asses in the Street Fight with special referee Mick Foley. How about Hulk Hogan coming back to battle Kurt Angle, or Triple H facing longtime friend Shawn Michaels?
With all that said, Eddie said it looked like a pretty good show on paper...but it was sorely lacking 'Latino Heat'. Guerrero questioned what his WrestleMania Moment would look like, and believed he had the answer to the question on everybody's mind - who would answer Eddie's open challenge this Sunday at 'the Grandaddy of Them All?' Gloating about his family legacy with father Gory Guerrero leading the pack, now was his time, and he was ready to steal the show in the Reliant Astrodome - in his home state of Texas! Suddenly, the lights went out, and out came none other than the Undertaker! 'The American Badass' was geared up and ready to kick some Radicalz ass, stomping down to the ring into the waiting fists of Saturn and Malenko! Fighting the two of them off, 'the Deadman' looked at Eddie in the ring telling him to bring it...and sure enough, the Undertaker stepped into the ring for an impromptu match!5) The Undertaker def. Eddie Guerrero (w/The Radicalz) (3:55)'The American Badass' was on a crash course collision with Chris Benoit, having already fended 'the Rabid Wolverine' off as he tried doing a number on his half-brother Kane earlier tonight. Instead answering the call of Eddie Guerrero, who was apparently hosting an open challenge this Sunday at WrestleMania X-Seven, the Undertaker wasted no time answering an impromptu challenge. The Radicalz watched from ringside as Undertaker fired off on Eddie in the corner, preventing him the head-start he had. 'Latino Heat' was sent flying across the ring into the opposite corner, throttling him with elbow strikes. Guerrero responded with a low dropkick, targeting the leg only to encounter a big boot! Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko got on the apron and 'the Deadman' was able to drag Malenko in the hard way, when Guerrero struck with another low dropkick! The veteran now off his feet, Guerrero grapevined the leg and rammed his elbow into it repeatedly, slamming his knee into the canvas! As the Texan laid prone in the ring, Eddie took off from the apron with a slingshot senton across the leg, allowing 'Latino Heat' to showboat. Applying a leglock, Guerrero hoped to win big tonight on SmackDown, ahead of the open challenge laid out - but Undertaker kicked his way free. Letting loose with a series of clotheslines and a sidewalk slam, Undertaker anticipated the Chokeslam, only to catch Saturn off the top rope with one instead! Malenko distracted the referee allowing Eddie to low blow 'the Deadman', before heading to the top rope. The Frog Splash connected, but Undertaker got his knees up. It allowed him to deliver the Last Ride for the win!
The Undertaker had picked up the win against Eddie Guerrero, despite the increased measures of the Radicalz at ringside. Terri attended to her boyfriend Perry Saturn, when Dean Malenko walked into the ring just to encounter the right hand of 'the American Badass!' Undertaker tossed Malenko up over his shoulder, preparing the Tombstone Piledriver on the former WWF Light Heavyweight Champion - just for Chris Benoit to hit the ring, stomping at the already damaged led of 'the Deadman!' 'The Rabid Wolverine' was armed with a steel chair, immediately swinging it at the spine of the Undertaker as 'Latino Heat' rolled out to the floor. Securing some handcuffs from 'the She-Devil', Eddie was able to securely bound the wrist of 'the Deadman' to the middle rope in the ring! Benoit with a steel chair in hand mocked the cuffed Undertaker, before relenting with a deathly blowof the chair over the head of 'the Deadman!' Undertaker was down and out, as it appeared Benoit had reunited with the Radicalz, his former running buddies!
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We cut backstage to see Shane McMahon getting ready to leave the Joe Louis Arena. The WCW Owner had much to think about after the confrontation with Vince McMahon in the ring, where the Chairman officially declared their WrestleMania match a Street Fight, this Sunday - with Mick Foley as the special guest referee. Only as Shane approached the doors to the parking lot, he was stopped by Stephanie McMahon waiting for him. With her arms folded, Shane politely asked her to spare the lecture. He knew she thought he was in for the time of his life at WrestleMania X-Seven, but he had an entire empire of his own riding on this Sunday. This was no longer for the pride of the McMahon Family against their devilish father, but for his own future!
'The Billion Dollar Princess' cut him off, telling Shane that whatever happened this Sunday, Shane was still her brother. Confused, Shane questioned her motive. Shane vengefully reminded his sister that when this whole plan started, Shane was the one who got her involved in the act. They could have ruled the World Wrestling Federation together, taken over the business from their parents and made it all better. Only, she turned her back on him. Steph told Shane that she wasn't fond of his actions in recent months, but regardless of everything, they were family and would always be siblings. Still sceptical, Shane asked what happened to 'Daddy's Little Girl' - if Steph meant a single word she said, she would be there present at ringside at WrestleMania, and rooting for her brother to succeed in kicking Dad's ass! If not? Shane declared that they were done. Barging past her out of the building, the WCW Owner's words had resonated strongly with 'the Billion Dollar Princess'.
Mick Foley was sat in the office of the Chairman, as Vince McMahon took a seat at his desk and swivelled around in it. The WWF Owner hoped 'the Hardcore Legend' knew exactly how high the bar was set for WrestleMania X-Seven. There had never been a match pitting himself with his own son. Forgetting about the matter of business, the fact that the World Wrestling Federation Owner would meet the Owner of World Championship Wrestling - this was a personal matter, and Vince hoped Mick saw how sensitive it was. Vince spoke of the triumph tonight being bittersweet, that he hadn't been given the sheer satisfaction of buying WCW himself, but once he saw the look on Shane McMahon's face in the ring tonight, he knew the WCW Owner was at his mercy come Sunday. As WCW Owner, Shane was walking into his creation - the WWF's version of the Superbowl. In a Street Fight with Mick Foley as the special guest referee, Shane wouldn't stand a chance.
'The Hardcore Legend' spoke up, affirming that although Shane might have wronged him in the past, even firing him on Christmas Day with his wife expecting - he could not stress enough how important he knew this match would be. The thing to remember with Mick that he wanted Vince to remember, was how he remembered damn well how Vince had screwed him in the past as well. He hadn't forgotten, tricking him and convincing him into believing he was hand-picked by the Corporation, only to turn the other cheek and try his mightiest to prevent him from becoming WWF Champion. Mick pointed the finger at Vince and grew serious, telling him he would not be taken advantage of again, by any single member of the McMahon Family - and if Vince expected any favoritism to be played on Sunday, to go to hell. Mick stated he would be calling it right down the middle, causing Vince to smile. Accepting that is what he wanted to hear, the Chairman warned Mick sincerely to perhaps not bite the hand that feeds him. Foley stood up and left in pent-up rage, leaving Vince to reflect on their conversation.
. 6) Bradshaw (w/Jacqueline) def. Kaientai (2:19)Despite WWF Commissioner William Regal's best efforts, the WWF European Championship would now be defended at WrestleMania X-Seven, as 'the Goodwill Ambassador' will meet the man that had been a thorn in his side since the start of his reign as Commissioner, Bradshaw. The tough Texan had been put in handicap matches against the likes of X-Factor, the Radicalz and the Right to Censor, but Bradshaw was able to overcome the RTC last Monday night on RAW is WAR. Bradshaw spiked Regal's tea with a hip flask earlier tonight, and 'the Goodwill Ambassador' tasked the guest hosts of WWF Sunday Night Heat's WrestleMania Pre-Game Party, Kaientai, with overcoming the APA member tonight. Kaientai wore their WrestleMania baseball jerseys, while Jacqueline accompanied Bradshaw to the ring. Taka Michinoku and Funaki requested handshakes before the bell, only for Bradshaw to blast both of them! A fallaway slam rocked Taka, when Funaki was caught off the top rope with a powerslam in mid-air! Bradshaw set up a powerbomb for Funaki when William Regal came stammering down the rampway. The WWF Commissioner was clearly inebriated, when he suddenly tripped and fell on the rampway, rolling down to ringside! Regal slowly came to, when Jackie came from behind causing him to fall again! Bradshaw laughed in hysterics when Taka came off the top rope with a missile dropkick, only to walk into the Clothesline From Hell for the win!
The WWF Commissioner had been embarrassed once again by Bradshaw and Jacqueline of the APA. As the WWF European Champion William Regal rushed in a hurry to pull up his trousers, 'the Goodwill Ambassador' watched with rage as Bradshaw laughed at him from the ring. Regal was coming to realize what had happened tonight, but was sure to be facing tough competition this Sunday at WrestleMania X-Seven. Bradshaw would finally have his revenge on Regal, and look to become WWF European Champion!
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Jim Ross was still sat in the backstage dressing room, compiling his notes and prepared for the sit-down interview still to come. He was joined by Stone Cold Steve Austin and his wife Debra. J.R. spoke inaudibly with his longtime friend, as now they were to wait for the arrival of the WWF Champion The Rock. The exclusive sit-down interview ahead of WrestleMania X-Seven was still to come!
Meanwhile Triple H was seen walking the halls of the Joe Louis Arena. We were moments away from revisiting an old score that still burned inside 'the Game's heart. With three days until his WrestleMania X-Seven meeting with longtime former friend Shawn Michaels, 'the Cerebral Assassin' first had to go through Kurt Angle. 'The Megastar' walked another corridor, without his girlfriend Stephanie McMahon. With days remaining until his own encounter with Hulk Hogan, the Olympic Gold Medalist had to go it alone against the man whose wife he stole from him last September. Angle had to be in the zone, as did Triple H - but neither could afford a loss this close to 'the Grandaddy of Them All!' It was coming up next.
Back on SmackDown at the announce table, Michael Cole and Tazz discussed WrestleMania X-Seven merely three days away live on pay-per-view! From the Reliant Astrodome in Houston, Texas, it looked like the most epic line-up in World Wrestling Federation history. The Rock would defend the WWF Championship against arch rival Stone Cold Steve Austin; WWF Owner Vince McMahon for the first time ever would fight his son, the new WCW Owner Shane McMahon; Triple H would face Shawn Michaels in a battle of former friends; Kurt Angle would face Hulk Hogan in 'the American Hero' against 'the Real American'; The Undertaker would fight for respect against Chris Benoit; Chris Jericho would take on Raven for the WWF Intercontinental Championship in an Astrodome Asylum match - with no disqualifications, no count-outs, pinfall and submission only in a Falls Count Anywhere environment; for a second year in a row, Edge and Christian would meet the Hardy Boyz and the Dudley Boyz for the WWF Tag Team Championships, in Tables, Ladders and Chairs II; Chyna would challenge Ivory for the WWF Women's Championship; the Right to Censor's the Goodfather, Bull Buchanan and Mark Henry would do battle with Billy Gunn, Al Snow and K-Kwik - and in matches just added tonight, Bradshaw would challenge William Regal for the WWF European Championship; and in an even more updated situation, Rhyno would defend the WWF Hardcore Championship against both the Big Show and Kane!
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The Undertaker limped through the halls of the Joe Louis Arena, blood trickling down his forehead when approached by Jonathan Coachman. The Coach sheepishly asked 'the American Badass' for an update on his wellbeing after being left laying by the joined forces of Chris Benoit and the Radicalz. Undertaker chuckled and unnervingly put a hand on Coach's shoulder. Telling him he had some nerve coming to ask him that question, he couldn't help but respect him. That's what this all boiled down to, with him and 'the Rabid Wolverine:' respect. He knew Benoit didn't respect the decade of destruction that 'the Deadman' had put in here in the World Wrestling Federation - but he would this Sunday. He had been here for ten long years, and it was his mistake to trust 'the Wolverine' for a second. That was on him, it was his mistake - but it wouldn't happen again. Benoit along with his old buddies the Radicalz, they were from WCW. You couldn't trust anybody from there. But 'the Deadman' planned to stop at nothing to make Benoit, Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn, Dean Malenko and even Terri pay for all of the sins they have committed. The World Wrestling Federation was his yard, and on Sunday at WrestleMania, he was going to chop the balls off 'the Wolverine'.
. 7) Kurt Angle def. Triple H (7:25)There was no sign of Shawn Michaels or Hulk Hogan tonight in Detroit, both surely anticipating major matches with Triple H and Kurt Angle this Sunday at WrestleMania X-Seven. It would sure to go down as a legendary spectacular in the Reliant Astrodome in three days, but tonight 'the Game' nor 'the Megastar' could afford a loss headed into 'the Grandaddy of Them All'. With bad blood in the past stemming from the love triangle that led Stephanie McMahon to leave her husband Triple H for Kurt Angle last year, it would never be over between these two men. Kurt Angle was laser-focused, targeting the ankle of Triple H early only for 'the Game' to corner him with some big right hands. Stomping away at 'the American Hero' in the corner, the referee got involved bringing Triple H to hit the ropes. Looking for the high knee, Angle sidestepped, the German suplex blocked by Hunter latching onto the top rope. Triple H charged into a belly-to-belly suplex, bringing Kurt to showboat before driving some mounted fists. Propping 'the Game's leg over the bottom rope, Kurt sprung off the bottom rope with hip attacks across the leg, before grapevining it with a leglock applied. 'The Game' struggled in pain before he was able to turn it over, applying a single-legged Boston crab! Hunter showed his flexibility in stretching backwards and applying an arching facelock on the Olympic Gold Medalist, until the rope break was made. Triple H limped slightly with the damage done to his leg, but was able to catch Angle with a spinebuster! Triple H hoped to go home early, when Angle back dropped 'the Game' from the ring!
Back from the commercial break, Kurt Angle drove Triple H down hard with a German suplex, as during the break a replay showed the action had reached ringside, where Angle was able to dropkick the steel steps into the foot of 'the Game!' The Olympian again grasped the foot and teased an Ankle Lock for Triple H to kick him away, able to strike with the DDT to the former WWF Champion! Triple H hobbled to his feet and clotheslined 'the Megastar' repeatedly, ducking a clothesline from Kurt and kicking him ahead of the Pedigree! Angle clutched 'the Game's leg and was able to lock in the Ankle Lock, just for Triple H to reverse into an inside cradle for a near fall. Catching Angle with another spinebuster, 'the Cerebral Assassin' set up the Pedigree on Angle, when Shawn Michaels' music hit! 'The Heartbreak Kid' was nowhere to be seen, drawing the ire of Triple H. But Angle was able to score with the Angle Slam, to secure the three count!
It appeared that distraction or not, 'the Megastar' had found the drive and motivation that had evaded him in the run-up to his WrestleMania X-Seven showdown with Hulk Hogan this Sunday night. The opportunistic Olympic Gold Medalist bailed from the ring in a hurry, as Triple H sat up in devastation. Once again losing to an arch rival, it came at the price of a distraction job by Shawn Michaels! 'The Heartbreak Kid' had once again gotten under the skin of 'the Cerebral Assassin', but this Sunday at WrestleMania, HBK was sure to have hell to pay once he stepped foot in the ring with 'the Game!'
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We cut to the dressing room area where Jim Ross and Stone Cold Steve Austin were discussing WrestleMania X-Seven among themselves, when the WWF Champion The Rock entered the scene. Removing his sunglasses, the WWF Championship gold rested on 'the Great One's shoulder as Austin commented with sarcasm about how great it was for him to join them. J.R. hoped to keep the peace, suggesting they get started and ask what WrestleMania meant to either one of them. Austin made a snide remark about Rock p*ssing him off, keeping him waiting for the past hour. He assumed WrestleMania meant little to the boy from Hollywood sat by Jim Ross. Able to maintain the peace, Jim asked Rock what the WWF Championship meant to him instead, to which Rock believed it solidified his position at the top of the card. Rock believed only the biggest and greatest stars in the business held the title, that it was the most valuable prize dating back decades. It solidified you had made it, that you had grabbed that brass ring, and it meant you were the absolute best. Jim Ross talked about the hellacious journey Stone Cold had gone through to make it here, returning from neck surgery and winning the 2001 Royal Rumble match. 'The Texas Rattlesnake' didn't seem interested, minimalizing the journey completely. It didn't come down to coming back and once again reaching the top of the mountain to him: this was Stone Cold against The Rock for the WWF Championship, in the main event of WrestleMania. It was everything to him, and the title belt sitting on Rock's shoulder was only a small piece of the prize he would get for being able to call himself the best, by beating Rock's ass on Sunday.
J.R. looked back on the history between the two adversaries, headlining WrestleMania XV two years ago. Jim Ross knew full well it rocked The Rock's confidence, but arguably he had excelled in a World Wrestling Federation where Stone Cold Steve Austin wasn't around in. Nobody had been more hard-working, dedicated and focused than 'the Brahma Bull' in the year 2000. Rock told Jim how it changed his entire perspective. It was a crushing defeat, not only to lose the title but to lose in the biggest match of the calendar year. Losing to Stone Cold, it changed who he was, and the last thing he wanted to possibly do was make it 0-2 against 'the Rattlesnake'. Stone Cold rolled his eyes and interjected, surmising that to him it didn't mean a damn thing about history. It may have changed Rock's trajectory, but that only came at a time he wasn't here. While Rock had the title and Steve wanted it, Rock was everything he had missed in the past year. Now was the time, now was the moment he established that Stone Cold Steve Austin hadn't skipped a beat: and he wasn't going anywhere, whether Rock liked it or not. J.R. suggested Austin give his thoughts to Rock as a person, to which Stone Cold gave credit for being a wonderful human being, but personally speaking, he didn't give a damn about the Rock. Rock elected to say the same about Steve Austin, saying it was no mystery, from good to bad, bad to good, across the spectrum - professionally they had earned each other's respect. They brought out the absolute best in one another - but personally speaking, he didn't like Austin.
Stone Cold went back to the question Jim Ross asked The Rock earlier, talking about what the WWF Championship meant to him. It meant that he was the number one son of a b*tch in the business - and the person sat across from him, didn't exactly look like the baddest son of a b*tch in the business. Stone Cold was antagonistic, irate over 'the People's Champ's constant disrespect and brought up the Rock Bottom last Monday night on RAW is WAR. Jim Ross maintained the peace again, asking about what it would mean for him to win the main event of WrestleMania in his home state, beating Rock. Austin claimed bluntly he didn't care whether it was in Texas or Madison Square Garden. For all Austin cared, it could be tonight in Joe Louis Arena. From bell-to-bell, Austin vowed to go length to length, to do whatever it took to beat Rock and recapture the WWF Championship. Rock responded mutually, because his strategy wouldn't involve ducking whatever Austin had to throw at him. He wanted to beat Austin just as much, if not more, than Austin wanted to beat him. Stone Cold affirmed the same thought, that he wanted Rock on top of his game this Sunday. He wanted Rock on the offensive, because Rock felt the need to beat him. Rock liked to tell people "Just Bring It", Austin will have just brought it. Austin 3:16 said "I just whooped your ass", and Austin challenged Rock to try and whoop his ass. They would see who the better man truly was - because Austin would not stop until there was nothing left, this Sunday night at WrestleMania X-Seven.
Jim Ross decided to bring the interview to a close, turning to The Rock. The WWF Champion concluded that it didn't matter what happened this Sunday, what did matter was that this was the biggest night of all-time. In the biggest main event of this industry's rich history, Rock vowed to not let anybody down. He would give every drop of sweat, every drop of blood, and every ounce of energy he had. Austin would get the absolute best of The Rock, come WrestleMania. There was a reason why they call him the best, beside the WWF Championship on his shoulder - and on April 1, two unstoppable forces would meet, and all questions would be answered. J.R. turned to a glaring Stone Cold Steve Austin, who maintained that every single time they had stepped foot in the same ring together, they have brought out the absolute best in one another. But this Sunday night, Stone Cold wanted to beat Rock on a personal level, on a professional level bleeding over into his existence. He needed to beat Rock, more than he could ever imagine. Stone Cold Steve Austin was back, and he must beat Rock at WrestleMania, to once again become WWF Champion, so much as his life depended on it. There could be only one flagbearer, one WWF Champion, one man on top in the World Wrestling Federation - and that man would be none other than Stone Cold. Austin and Rock each stood up and shot daggers at one another, one last burning staredown ahead of WrestleMania X-Seven. Jim Ross wished them both luck, heading into 'the Grandest Stage of Them All'. |
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Post by DTP. on Mar 30, 2021 12:27:34 GMT -5
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