January
Year 3
Week 1
Just one night after an explosive TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs PPV, the first Monday Night Raw episode of the new calendar year opens up LIVE from the city of brotherly love - Philadelphia, PA!!!
Video Segment
The show begins with a video clip, showing the results from last night's PPV. First, highlights from the Table match for the U.S. Title between Brett Diamond and Renegade are shown, and the controversial ending is replayed several times. A slow motion replay shows Brett's hip contacting the table a split second before Renegade's shoulder does, and then the post-match interactions where Renegade is awarded the U.S. Title. Next, clips of the brawling First Blood match between Gravedigger and Carson Pain, where "The Original" got busted open on the ramp and needed medical help afterwards. And finally, clips from the WWE Title battle between Mack Wheeler and champ David Degenerate. Interspersed is clips from 8 months ago, when Anarchy threatened to ruin a future opportunity for Mack. The video ends with Anarchy's interference, and David unhooking the title belt from the top of the ladder to win the match. David holding up the title is the final image of the video as it fades out!
In-Ring Segment
Coming off the heels of the PPV highlights, the entrance theme of Raw GM Stephanie McMahon hits and she heads down to the ring! The "Billion-Dollar Princess" climbs into the ring, and smirks at the crowd's warm welcome. She quickly begins to discuss tonight's news.
Steph: "Hello Philadelphia, and welcome to another Monday Night Raw! Tonight, there is a lot of really big developments we need to discuss, and I think you will ENJOY what is to come. First, I'd like to welcome a guest of mine... Private investigator Pete Johnson!"
Down the ramp comes a tall, husky man in a dark suit, carrying a mania folder full of documents. The professional-looking gentleman walks up the steel steps, enters the ring and shakes hands with Steph. The man looks around the arena as Steph addresses the crowd again.
Steph: "Investigator Johnson was hired by myself and the WWE Board of Directors and instructed to investigate the events surrounding the vehicular attack on DMK following the Judgment Day pay-per-view. He was given full access to financial records, interviews with backstage crew and roster members, video and surveillance recordings and anything else he deemed necessary to determine the true culprit behind the heinous assault on one of Raw's top superstars. According to Mr. Johnson, he has gathered the evidence needed to identify the attacker. So without further ado, I'd like Mr. Johnson to reveal his findings."
Stephanie approaches Inv. Johnson as he opens the folder and pulls out a small piece of paper. He shows it to Stephanie and speaks into her microphone.
Inv. Johnson: "Could you bring this man down to the ring?"
Steph: "Sure... could I have... David Degenerate?!... come down... to the ring?"
The crowd emits a collective gasp and Stephanie's shocked as well. A few anxious moments pass before David's theme song plays, and the fans overwhelm him with angry boos. The WWE Champion walks out onto the stage slowly, eyeing the ring with a scowl, and is joined by a concerned Mr. McMahon! The corporate duo walk to the ring and climb in gingerly, obviously confused over why they would be invited for this. Once they enter the ring, Stephanie speaks.
Steph: "Well... Mr. Johnson... what would you like to say?"
Stephanie hands him the microphone and the investigator steps forward. David stands disrespectfully, arms crossed and his head cocked to one side while Vince seems very interested in what Mr. Johnson has to say. The investigator looks right at David and speaks.
Inv. Johnson: "According to my extensive research, I have determined that the victim's attacker is... David Degenerate."
The crowd is stunned and starts to boo heavily again, and the scene is chaotic for a minute. David shakes his head and scoffs, while Stephanie's jaw drops and Mr. McMahon looks over at David worriedly. The WWE Chairman then directly speaks to Mr. Johnson.
Mr. McMahon: "Now hold on a second, Mr. Johnson. What... what is the evidence here? You can't simply make wild accusations without proof. So please... show your proof!"
Inv. Johnson: "We have clear video evidence showing David donning a dark mask before climbing into the same vehicle that performed the attack. An interview with a backstage crew member also indicated that David supplied the driver of said vehicle with a small payment of some amount, asking for access to the vehicle. There is also supplemental evidence but those two indicate very strongly that David completed this act."
Mr. McMahon is stunned and looks over at his hand-picked champion. He can't believe what he is hearing, and speaks to David directly.
Mr. McMahon: "David... uhh... did you really do this?"
David scowls at everyone and takes the microphone from Vince. He paces around the ring for a moment, while everyone watches him very intently. Finally, the WWE champ speaks.
David: "Yeah... I did it."
The crowd boos again, and Stephanie & Vince are floored by his admission. Vince puts his hand against his head, while Stephanie's shock eventually turns to anger. The Raw GM addresses David.
Steph: "Why? Why, David? Why would you do this? This is completely beneath you!"
David: "WHY?! You wanna know, why? I'll tell you why. Because I know DMK really, really well. I watched him beat Gravedigger and I knew... I KNEW... that I was NEXT. I couldn't handle it. I was already dealing with Carson, and you apparently were going to give him unlimited chances to beat me. And I couldn't handle both of them. So... I took Vince's advice."
Steph: "Wait... what?!"
Everyone suddenly looks at Vince, and the WWE Chairman shakes his head. He holds up his hands to brush off David's comment and then responds himself.
Mr. McMahon: "Now wait just a minute... I did not tell David to do this. This was all on him. What advice are you talking about?"
David: "When I first won the WWE Title, we had a conversation about being on top. About staying on top. And when I thought about DMK coming for this belt, I could only think of your words... 'eliminate all competitors'. I know you were talking about it from a business standpoint but... I decided to eliminate my competitor."
Everyone is stunned again... except for Vince. The WWE Chairman's expression of shock slowly becomes impressed. Is he... okay with David's actions? Stephanie becomes disgusted when she notices her father's look and addresses him directly.
Steph: "Hold on, Dad. You CANNOT be okay with this! What he did was horrific! DMK may NEVER compete again! He committed a crime!"
Mr. McMahon: "Hold on a sec, Stephanie, dear. I'm... NOT agreeing with what he did. I agree, it was a terrible choice. But... I'm surprised he took my advice and used it wisely. I... think you could learn something from this."
Steph: "Are you kidding me? Learn something from smashing into another person's car. On purpose?!"
Mr. McMahon: "No no no... not that part. Taking my advice. You've been very hostile towards David as champion, while I've seen the good things he can bring to the table. If you could only see what I see..."
Steph: "... and what I see, is a vicious criminal. He can't possibly stay champion, let alone EMPLOYED, after this news. He should be in jail!"
The crowd cheers for the comment, and Stephanie seems motivated by the crowd's response. Mr. McMahon tries to get her to calm down, while a worried look comes over David's face. The Raw GM appears to have made a decision, and speaks to David.
Steph: "David... in light of this information, I have made a decision. As acting Raw GM, I have the obligation to ensure the safety and security of the roster members. And I also have an obligation to honor our champions, unless they have acted unworthy of being a champion. So therefore... David Degenerate... I hereby STRIP you of..."
But suddenly, before Stephanie can finish, Mr. Johnson touches her on the arm. Stephanie stops her comments and looks at him. Mr. Johnson shakes his head and replies to her.
Inv. Johnson: "Hold on a sec, Mrs. McMahon-Helmsley. I have also spoken to the victim in this case. He told me explicitly that he does not want to press charges against his assailant."
Steph: "Wait... what? DMK doesn't want to press charges?"
Inv. Johnson: "That is correct. The victim wishes that no extraordinary punishments be given to his assailant."
Everyone is stunned, including David and Mr. McMahon. But the corporate duo's shock becomes happiness when they realize what Mr. Johnson is relaying. DMK apparently wants no extraordinary punishments, so stripping David of the WWE Title would likely fall under that! Stephanie regathers her thoughts and responds.
Steph: "Well... this act cannot go unpunished. I'm just going to be a little creative. I know you and Mack Wheeler have a little unfinished business, but he is currently busy tonight. So instead... I'm going to put you in a main event match. An... Extreme Rules, Falls Count Anywhere, hardcore-style match against... BIG MUTHA TRUCKER!"
The crowd erupts into cheers, and David shakes his head angrily, begging the Raw GM to reconsider. Stephanie stands firm and has one more comment.
Steph: "Maybe your former pal can BEAT some sense into you. And if you happen to survive... as for your WWE Title? Let's just say that I will decide the fate of it and your possession of it later. Good luck tonight, you CRIMINAL."
The crowd cheers again, and Stephanie stares down a furious David for a minute. Mr. McMahon steps in to break the tension, and Steph thanks Mr. Johnson and exits the ring with him. The camera focuses on the arrogant WWE Champion as the segment ends!
Steph: "Hello Philadelphia, and welcome to another Monday Night Raw! Tonight, there is a lot of really big developments we need to discuss, and I think you will ENJOY what is to come. First, I'd like to welcome a guest of mine... Private investigator Pete Johnson!"
Down the ramp comes a tall, husky man in a dark suit, carrying a mania folder full of documents. The professional-looking gentleman walks up the steel steps, enters the ring and shakes hands with Steph. The man looks around the arena as Steph addresses the crowd again.
Steph: "Investigator Johnson was hired by myself and the WWE Board of Directors and instructed to investigate the events surrounding the vehicular attack on DMK following the Judgment Day pay-per-view. He was given full access to financial records, interviews with backstage crew and roster members, video and surveillance recordings and anything else he deemed necessary to determine the true culprit behind the heinous assault on one of Raw's top superstars. According to Mr. Johnson, he has gathered the evidence needed to identify the attacker. So without further ado, I'd like Mr. Johnson to reveal his findings."
Stephanie approaches Inv. Johnson as he opens the folder and pulls out a small piece of paper. He shows it to Stephanie and speaks into her microphone.
Inv. Johnson: "Could you bring this man down to the ring?"
Steph: "Sure... could I have... David Degenerate?!... come down... to the ring?"
The crowd emits a collective gasp and Stephanie's shocked as well. A few anxious moments pass before David's theme song plays, and the fans overwhelm him with angry boos. The WWE Champion walks out onto the stage slowly, eyeing the ring with a scowl, and is joined by a concerned Mr. McMahon! The corporate duo walk to the ring and climb in gingerly, obviously confused over why they would be invited for this. Once they enter the ring, Stephanie speaks.
Steph: "Well... Mr. Johnson... what would you like to say?"
Stephanie hands him the microphone and the investigator steps forward. David stands disrespectfully, arms crossed and his head cocked to one side while Vince seems very interested in what Mr. Johnson has to say. The investigator looks right at David and speaks.
Inv. Johnson: "According to my extensive research, I have determined that the victim's attacker is... David Degenerate."
The crowd is stunned and starts to boo heavily again, and the scene is chaotic for a minute. David shakes his head and scoffs, while Stephanie's jaw drops and Mr. McMahon looks over at David worriedly. The WWE Chairman then directly speaks to Mr. Johnson.
Mr. McMahon: "Now hold on a second, Mr. Johnson. What... what is the evidence here? You can't simply make wild accusations without proof. So please... show your proof!"
Inv. Johnson: "We have clear video evidence showing David donning a dark mask before climbing into the same vehicle that performed the attack. An interview with a backstage crew member also indicated that David supplied the driver of said vehicle with a small payment of some amount, asking for access to the vehicle. There is also supplemental evidence but those two indicate very strongly that David completed this act."
Mr. McMahon is stunned and looks over at his hand-picked champion. He can't believe what he is hearing, and speaks to David directly.
Mr. McMahon: "David... uhh... did you really do this?"
David scowls at everyone and takes the microphone from Vince. He paces around the ring for a moment, while everyone watches him very intently. Finally, the WWE champ speaks.
David: "Yeah... I did it."
The crowd boos again, and Stephanie & Vince are floored by his admission. Vince puts his hand against his head, while Stephanie's shock eventually turns to anger. The Raw GM addresses David.
Steph: "Why? Why, David? Why would you do this? This is completely beneath you!"
David: "WHY?! You wanna know, why? I'll tell you why. Because I know DMK really, really well. I watched him beat Gravedigger and I knew... I KNEW... that I was NEXT. I couldn't handle it. I was already dealing with Carson, and you apparently were going to give him unlimited chances to beat me. And I couldn't handle both of them. So... I took Vince's advice."
Steph: "Wait... what?!"
Everyone suddenly looks at Vince, and the WWE Chairman shakes his head. He holds up his hands to brush off David's comment and then responds himself.
Mr. McMahon: "Now wait just a minute... I did not tell David to do this. This was all on him. What advice are you talking about?"
David: "When I first won the WWE Title, we had a conversation about being on top. About staying on top. And when I thought about DMK coming for this belt, I could only think of your words... 'eliminate all competitors'. I know you were talking about it from a business standpoint but... I decided to eliminate my competitor."
Everyone is stunned again... except for Vince. The WWE Chairman's expression of shock slowly becomes impressed. Is he... okay with David's actions? Stephanie becomes disgusted when she notices her father's look and addresses him directly.
Steph: "Hold on, Dad. You CANNOT be okay with this! What he did was horrific! DMK may NEVER compete again! He committed a crime!"
Mr. McMahon: "Hold on a sec, Stephanie, dear. I'm... NOT agreeing with what he did. I agree, it was a terrible choice. But... I'm surprised he took my advice and used it wisely. I... think you could learn something from this."
Steph: "Are you kidding me? Learn something from smashing into another person's car. On purpose?!"
Mr. McMahon: "No no no... not that part. Taking my advice. You've been very hostile towards David as champion, while I've seen the good things he can bring to the table. If you could only see what I see..."
Steph: "... and what I see, is a vicious criminal. He can't possibly stay champion, let alone EMPLOYED, after this news. He should be in jail!"
The crowd cheers for the comment, and Stephanie seems motivated by the crowd's response. Mr. McMahon tries to get her to calm down, while a worried look comes over David's face. The Raw GM appears to have made a decision, and speaks to David.
Steph: "David... in light of this information, I have made a decision. As acting Raw GM, I have the obligation to ensure the safety and security of the roster members. And I also have an obligation to honor our champions, unless they have acted unworthy of being a champion. So therefore... David Degenerate... I hereby STRIP you of..."
But suddenly, before Stephanie can finish, Mr. Johnson touches her on the arm. Stephanie stops her comments and looks at him. Mr. Johnson shakes his head and replies to her.
Inv. Johnson: "Hold on a sec, Mrs. McMahon-Helmsley. I have also spoken to the victim in this case. He told me explicitly that he does not want to press charges against his assailant."
Steph: "Wait... what? DMK doesn't want to press charges?"
Inv. Johnson: "That is correct. The victim wishes that no extraordinary punishments be given to his assailant."
Everyone is stunned, including David and Mr. McMahon. But the corporate duo's shock becomes happiness when they realize what Mr. Johnson is relaying. DMK apparently wants no extraordinary punishments, so stripping David of the WWE Title would likely fall under that! Stephanie regathers her thoughts and responds.
Steph: "Well... this act cannot go unpunished. I'm just going to be a little creative. I know you and Mack Wheeler have a little unfinished business, but he is currently busy tonight. So instead... I'm going to put you in a main event match. An... Extreme Rules, Falls Count Anywhere, hardcore-style match against... BIG MUTHA TRUCKER!"
The crowd erupts into cheers, and David shakes his head angrily, begging the Raw GM to reconsider. Stephanie stands firm and has one more comment.
Steph: "Maybe your former pal can BEAT some sense into you. And if you happen to survive... as for your WWE Title? Let's just say that I will decide the fate of it and your possession of it later. Good luck tonight, you CRIMINAL."
The crowd cheers again, and Stephanie stares down a furious David for a minute. Mr. McMahon steps in to break the tension, and Steph thanks Mr. Johnson and exits the ring with him. The camera focuses on the arrogant WWE Champion as the segment ends!
Renegade vs. Travis Roarke
After that insane start to the show, the crowd gears up for the first match of the night involving... the new United States Champion! Last night's PPV opened with a great Table match between Brett Diamond and Renegade, but a controversial ending gave the erratic "Party Animal" the title. Tonight, the new champ will face Travis Roarke in a non-title match less than 24 hours after reclaiming the U.S. belt!
Roarke's music hits and he gets a mixed reaction from the Philly fans, but the fighting expert seems focused. The "Assassin" heads to the ring, but suddenly... Renegade attacks him from behind! The crowd boos the wild champ as he stands over his dazed opponent on the ringside floor. When Travis staggers to his feet, Renegade catches him in the chin with a vicious Kick-olution finishing kick! What a start to this match, with the champ using a unwarranted assault to take advantage early.
The action enters the ring finally, and Roarke manages to rally a little bit using his various fighting skills. But the U.S. champ appears determined to end this match quickly, and starts flying around the ring. First, he drops Travis with a spinebuster and follows up with a flying superkick. Riding the momentum, Renegade hits his foe with his Shock Value signature and then sets up in the corner to ready himself for another finishing kick. When Travis rises off the mat, Renegade steps over and blasts him again with another Kick-olution! Renegade goes for a cover with a wild smile on his face and the referee counts 1... 2... AND TRAVIS KICKS OUT! The fans cheer and the U.S. champ is stunned that the "Assassin" has kept himself alive!
The match continues and the resilient Roarke again builds a rally, this time putting some damage on the champ. Travis tosses the champ into the ropes, but Renegade reverses into a running knee. With the "Party Animal" seemingly in control again, suddenly... Brett Diamond's music hits! The "Professional" jogs down to ringside and immediately catches the attention of his rival! Renegade growls loudly... and decides to slide out of the ring to attack him! A one-sided brawl takes place, with the angry new champ beating up on his intruder and tossing him into the barricade. The ref doesn't call for a DQ since Brett did not respond with any physical act, but he demands that Renegade re-enter the ring. The "Party Animal" reluctantly obliges, although he keeps one eye trained on his rival's whereabouts. The distraction gives Travis a chance to land a few more shots on his foe, while Brett shakes off the surprise attack outside.
Renegade again manages to gain the upper hand, and nails Travis with yet another Kick-olution, his third of the match. Renegade taunts Brett for a moment, and then tries a very arrogant pin attempt. The referee counts 1... 2... AND TRAVIS KICKS OUT AGAIN! The "Party Animal" snaps when his foe gets a shoulder up and can't control himself. The referee tries to inform him of what he saw... but Renegade responds by punching the official right in the face! The cheap shot knocks the referee out! And with the ref down... Brett slides into the ring to attack his rival! A brawl breaks out, as the feud between them clearly isn't over. Finally, Renegade tosses the "Professional" back outside just before the official starts to come to his senses.
With Brett outside, Renegade takes out his anger on a woozy Travis. The "Assassin" crawls around slowly on all fours, trying to find the nearest rope to help him up. But the U.S. champ has other ideas, and punts him in the head with his Boot Down signature! Brett tries to interfere again, but the referee orders him away. The "Professional" backs off frustrated, and Renegade goes for another pin with his rival unable to intervene. The official counts the 1-2-3 for good this time, and the new U.S. champ picks up the win!
Renegade stares down Brett and the two rivals glare intensely as the "Party Animal" mildly celebrates the victory.
WINNER: Renegade
Roarke's music hits and he gets a mixed reaction from the Philly fans, but the fighting expert seems focused. The "Assassin" heads to the ring, but suddenly... Renegade attacks him from behind! The crowd boos the wild champ as he stands over his dazed opponent on the ringside floor. When Travis staggers to his feet, Renegade catches him in the chin with a vicious Kick-olution finishing kick! What a start to this match, with the champ using a unwarranted assault to take advantage early.
The action enters the ring finally, and Roarke manages to rally a little bit using his various fighting skills. But the U.S. champ appears determined to end this match quickly, and starts flying around the ring. First, he drops Travis with a spinebuster and follows up with a flying superkick. Riding the momentum, Renegade hits his foe with his Shock Value signature and then sets up in the corner to ready himself for another finishing kick. When Travis rises off the mat, Renegade steps over and blasts him again with another Kick-olution! Renegade goes for a cover with a wild smile on his face and the referee counts 1... 2... AND TRAVIS KICKS OUT! The fans cheer and the U.S. champ is stunned that the "Assassin" has kept himself alive!
The match continues and the resilient Roarke again builds a rally, this time putting some damage on the champ. Travis tosses the champ into the ropes, but Renegade reverses into a running knee. With the "Party Animal" seemingly in control again, suddenly... Brett Diamond's music hits! The "Professional" jogs down to ringside and immediately catches the attention of his rival! Renegade growls loudly... and decides to slide out of the ring to attack him! A one-sided brawl takes place, with the angry new champ beating up on his intruder and tossing him into the barricade. The ref doesn't call for a DQ since Brett did not respond with any physical act, but he demands that Renegade re-enter the ring. The "Party Animal" reluctantly obliges, although he keeps one eye trained on his rival's whereabouts. The distraction gives Travis a chance to land a few more shots on his foe, while Brett shakes off the surprise attack outside.
Renegade again manages to gain the upper hand, and nails Travis with yet another Kick-olution, his third of the match. Renegade taunts Brett for a moment, and then tries a very arrogant pin attempt. The referee counts 1... 2... AND TRAVIS KICKS OUT AGAIN! The "Party Animal" snaps when his foe gets a shoulder up and can't control himself. The referee tries to inform him of what he saw... but Renegade responds by punching the official right in the face! The cheap shot knocks the referee out! And with the ref down... Brett slides into the ring to attack his rival! A brawl breaks out, as the feud between them clearly isn't over. Finally, Renegade tosses the "Professional" back outside just before the official starts to come to his senses.
With Brett outside, Renegade takes out his anger on a woozy Travis. The "Assassin" crawls around slowly on all fours, trying to find the nearest rope to help him up. But the U.S. champ has other ideas, and punts him in the head with his Boot Down signature! Brett tries to interfere again, but the referee orders him away. The "Professional" backs off frustrated, and Renegade goes for another pin with his rival unable to intervene. The official counts the 1-2-3 for good this time, and the new U.S. champ picks up the win!
Renegade stares down Brett and the two rivals glare intensely as the "Party Animal" mildly celebrates the victory.
WINNER: Renegade
Backstage Segment
After a brief commercial break, the show returns and we see a staggering Renegade walking backstage. The U.S. champ just picked up a win over Travis Roarke, despite the "Assassin" showing big resiliency by kicking out of 2 finishers. The "Party Animal" bumps into a wall, and has to grab a nearby table to steady himself. As he walks, someone else approaches. The camera pans back to reveal... Lee Money! Renegade's former tag partner stopped a potential attack last night after the U.S. Title match, when Renegade grabbed a chair to use on Brett. Many fans noticed the similarities between Lee's save last night and the save he made last summer, when he stopped DMK from attacking Renegade after a Summerslam WWE Title match. "Cash" stops Renegade and speak to him.
Lee: "Hey man... you have gone off the rails. What is the matter with you?"
Renegade: "What... what are you talking about? Leave me alone!"
Lee: "No way, man. This craziness has gone on long enough. You've been acting like an insane person for months, and you ended our friendship out of... what? Jealousy? Do you even have a reason?"
Renegade: "EVERYTHING... has a reason..."
Lee: "Well, I still don't see it. And last night? You won that match by the slimmest margin I've ever seen, and you felt the need to throw salt in the wound by trying to attack Brett after the match? I couldn't stand for it. That's why I ran down. I couldn't watch it happen and feel good about myself. Don't you remember how we became friends in the first place? DMK tried to do the same exact thing a year ago, and I saved you. Don't you remember?"
Renegade: "Yeah... yeah I remember..."
Lee: "Don't you realize how ridiculous that was? It's totally fine to want a rematch for a title, but... attacking afterwards is not okay. You won, fair and square. Just take the title and go."
Renegade seems to be bouncing back and forth between emotions, which starts to confuse Lee. One second, the champ seems distraught and the next... he's arrogant! What is going on? Suddenly, he appears to be fighting off tears, but then it turns into furious anger and he responds.
Renegade: "I don't need your advice! I don't need your goody goody bull crap! Did you see what happened out there? That's what's gonna happen to you next week. I'm gonna kick your face off!"
Lee: "Wait, what? You want a match?"
Renegade: "YES. Next week... me, you... death for you. Gotta go."
Renegade bolts away before "Cash" can respond, leaving him in a confused lurch. Lee stares towards Renegade's direction as the segment ends!
Lee: "Hey man... you have gone off the rails. What is the matter with you?"
Renegade: "What... what are you talking about? Leave me alone!"
Lee: "No way, man. This craziness has gone on long enough. You've been acting like an insane person for months, and you ended our friendship out of... what? Jealousy? Do you even have a reason?"
Renegade: "EVERYTHING... has a reason..."
Lee: "Well, I still don't see it. And last night? You won that match by the slimmest margin I've ever seen, and you felt the need to throw salt in the wound by trying to attack Brett after the match? I couldn't stand for it. That's why I ran down. I couldn't watch it happen and feel good about myself. Don't you remember how we became friends in the first place? DMK tried to do the same exact thing a year ago, and I saved you. Don't you remember?"
Renegade: "Yeah... yeah I remember..."
Lee: "Don't you realize how ridiculous that was? It's totally fine to want a rematch for a title, but... attacking afterwards is not okay. You won, fair and square. Just take the title and go."
Renegade seems to be bouncing back and forth between emotions, which starts to confuse Lee. One second, the champ seems distraught and the next... he's arrogant! What is going on? Suddenly, he appears to be fighting off tears, but then it turns into furious anger and he responds.
Renegade: "I don't need your advice! I don't need your goody goody bull crap! Did you see what happened out there? That's what's gonna happen to you next week. I'm gonna kick your face off!"
Lee: "Wait, what? You want a match?"
Renegade: "YES. Next week... me, you... death for you. Gotta go."
Renegade bolts away before "Cash" can respond, leaving him in a confused lurch. Lee stares towards Renegade's direction as the segment ends!
Steel Cage Match:
Mack Wheeler vs. Anarchy
Mack Wheeler's music hits, and the crowd erupts into big cheers for the "Human Semi"! Last night, Mack got screwed out of the WWE Title in the PPV main event, when Anarchy interfered and crashed him through a table off the top of the ladder. The "Little Hellraiser" vowed 8 months ago to ruin a future chance for Mack, and apparently last night was his idea of payback. As a result of Anarchy's actions, Raw GM Stephanie McMahon scheduled a match between them... inside the steel cage! This would ideally give Mack all the leeway to take out his justified anger on his foe, and force Anarchy to face the consequences for his unwarranted decision. Mack strolls to the ring, gazing up at the steel walls surrounding the ropes, and enters all fired up. Next, Anarchy's Chevelle theme plays and the crowd unleashes on him with vicious jeers, voicing their displeasure with his shocking attack from last night. Anarchy heads to the ring confidently, showing no fear for the possible beatdown that might follow!
He pauses for a moment at the cage door, while Mack motions him to enter the ring. Anarchy takes a deep breath... and slides into the ring! The referee quickly locks the door and calls for the bell... but the punches are already flying! Mack punches and stomps on his foe repeatedly, setting the tone for the viciousness that is about to take place. The "Human Semi" lifts Anarchy up and starts using the cage walls as a weapon. Mack smashes Anarchy into the cage over and over again, with each thud sounding more sickening than the last. After about the 10th face plant into the steel, a small gash appears on Anarchy's forehead and the blood starts to trickle!
Seeing his rival bloodied only seems to incense Mack more, as he transitions from cage tosses into German suplexes! Mack starts tossing and slamming Anarchy around, wrapping his arms around his waist and delivering German suplex after German suplex. To top off his run, Mack delivers his 3-Wheeler signature combo of suplexes and appears to daze his bloody foe for good! Mack steps back and goes to signal for his finishing spear, and waits for the "Little Hellraiser" to stagger to his feet. When he does, Mack races over... but Anarchy surprises him with a flipping kick to the skull! The shot dazes Mack for a second, while Anarchy grins through the crimson mask. He may be getting his butt kicked, and for good reason, but he's not going to go down without a fight!
The counter kick turns out to be the only big shot that Anarchy lands on the angry #1 contender. Mack shakes off the impact, gets even more angry and puts the finishing touches on his relentless assault. Mack delivers a few more suplexes, and again damages Anarchy with a 3-Wheeler signature. This time, he preps for a spear and doesn't get caught sleeping. Mack bulls through his foe with a gut-busting Speeding Semi finisher and pins him to win the match!
Mack raises his arm in celebration, but the "Human Semi" gets over it quickly. He exits the cage and stomps backstage, clearly still in the foulest of moods!
WINNER: Mack Wheeler
He pauses for a moment at the cage door, while Mack motions him to enter the ring. Anarchy takes a deep breath... and slides into the ring! The referee quickly locks the door and calls for the bell... but the punches are already flying! Mack punches and stomps on his foe repeatedly, setting the tone for the viciousness that is about to take place. The "Human Semi" lifts Anarchy up and starts using the cage walls as a weapon. Mack smashes Anarchy into the cage over and over again, with each thud sounding more sickening than the last. After about the 10th face plant into the steel, a small gash appears on Anarchy's forehead and the blood starts to trickle!
Seeing his rival bloodied only seems to incense Mack more, as he transitions from cage tosses into German suplexes! Mack starts tossing and slamming Anarchy around, wrapping his arms around his waist and delivering German suplex after German suplex. To top off his run, Mack delivers his 3-Wheeler signature combo of suplexes and appears to daze his bloody foe for good! Mack steps back and goes to signal for his finishing spear, and waits for the "Little Hellraiser" to stagger to his feet. When he does, Mack races over... but Anarchy surprises him with a flipping kick to the skull! The shot dazes Mack for a second, while Anarchy grins through the crimson mask. He may be getting his butt kicked, and for good reason, but he's not going to go down without a fight!
The counter kick turns out to be the only big shot that Anarchy lands on the angry #1 contender. Mack shakes off the impact, gets even more angry and puts the finishing touches on his relentless assault. Mack delivers a few more suplexes, and again damages Anarchy with a 3-Wheeler signature. This time, he preps for a spear and doesn't get caught sleeping. Mack bulls through his foe with a gut-busting Speeding Semi finisher and pins him to win the match!
Mack raises his arm in celebration, but the "Human Semi" gets over it quickly. He exits the cage and stomps backstage, clearly still in the foulest of moods!
WINNER: Mack Wheeler
Backstage Interview
The show returns from a break and the cameras pick up backstage in the interview area, with a close-up of a patiently waiting Gravedigger! The "Graveyard Monster" was victorious in a brutal First Blood match at last night's PPV, defeating Carson Pain without even utilizing a foreign object. The camera zooms out to reveal Justin Roberts standing next to him, ready to begin an interview. Justin gets his cue and addresses his subject.
Justin: "Hello everyone, and allow me to welcome the 'Graveyard Monster', Gravedigger! You requested this interview for tonight. What would you like to say?"
Gravedigger: "Last night, I showed everyone how weak Carson Pain really was. I didn't need to smack him with a chair. I didn't need to smash him through a table. I didn't need to use a ladder. All I needed... was these fists. And I'm going to show everyone just how dangerous I can be. I'm coming for the WWE Title. And I'm going to use the Royal Rumble to get there."
Justin: "How do you plan to overcome 29 other men to win the year's biggest match?"
Gravedigger: "Just like I do for every other encounter. I'm going to heavily prepare. I'm laying out a challenge to anybody who feels worthy to answer it. Each week this month, there will be a 4-man battle royal. I will participate in each one, leaving 3 spots open. It doesn't matter who wants a chance... Raw members, Smackdown members, legends, rookies, whoever... but I will defeat all to strike the fear into anybody who dares to enter the Rumble. I will show my dominance and eventually outlast all to win the Rumble... and earn the title shot that's rightfully mine."
Justin: "What about other top contenders? What if, say... Carson Pain answers the challenge?"
Gravedigger looks right at Justin, and the stare seems to frighten the interviewer a bit. 'Digger leans in close and replies.
Gravedigger: "If we're lucky... we won't see Carson Pain... anymore."
Gravedigger turns and walks away, stretching his arms to prepare for the battle royal... which is next! The segment ends as the camera focuses on the "Monster".
Justin: "Hello everyone, and allow me to welcome the 'Graveyard Monster', Gravedigger! You requested this interview for tonight. What would you like to say?"
Gravedigger: "Last night, I showed everyone how weak Carson Pain really was. I didn't need to smack him with a chair. I didn't need to smash him through a table. I didn't need to use a ladder. All I needed... was these fists. And I'm going to show everyone just how dangerous I can be. I'm coming for the WWE Title. And I'm going to use the Royal Rumble to get there."
Justin: "How do you plan to overcome 29 other men to win the year's biggest match?"
Gravedigger: "Just like I do for every other encounter. I'm going to heavily prepare. I'm laying out a challenge to anybody who feels worthy to answer it. Each week this month, there will be a 4-man battle royal. I will participate in each one, leaving 3 spots open. It doesn't matter who wants a chance... Raw members, Smackdown members, legends, rookies, whoever... but I will defeat all to strike the fear into anybody who dares to enter the Rumble. I will show my dominance and eventually outlast all to win the Rumble... and earn the title shot that's rightfully mine."
Justin: "What about other top contenders? What if, say... Carson Pain answers the challenge?"
Gravedigger looks right at Justin, and the stare seems to frighten the interviewer a bit. 'Digger leans in close and replies.
Gravedigger: "If we're lucky... we won't see Carson Pain... anymore."
Gravedigger turns and walks away, stretching his arms to prepare for the battle royal... which is next! The segment ends as the camera focuses on the "Monster".
Vignette
Just before the next match, thunder sounds rumble throughout the arena and a video vignette is shown. There are clips of dark, stormy clouds interspersed with silhouette images of a large man flexing in different poses. After about 30 seconds, the images fade and the words "SEE THE LIGHTNING..." flash on the screen. After a few seconds, the words disappear after a crack of lightning brightens the screen and thunder rumbles again. The video then fades out as the next match gets underway.
4-Man Battle Royal:
Gravedigger vs. Dylan Dynamite vs.
Corey Youngblood vs. Big Juan Santos
A familiar lightning bolt hits the stage, and Gravedigger heads down to the ring for tonight's weekly Royal Rumble preview! The "Graveyard Monster" will battle each week in a 4-man battle royal, hoping to show his dominance by winning each one. Tonight's first round will have him facing off against Dylan Dynamite, Corey Youngblood and the "Mexican Brute"! The "Dynamite Kid" enters first, looking confident despite the big challenge ahead. Next, the former hockey player wildly makes his entrance, smashing a soda can on his skull and threatening everyone with a kendo stick. And finally, the "Grande y Mal" rookie enters and stares down the "Monster", indicating that he's not planning to make this easy for 'Digger! The bell rings, and the over-the-top-rope battle gets underway!
The match begins and the 3 challengers actually focus on each other instead of Gravedigger, but the "Monster" doesn't take long before getting involved. Big Juan gets Dynamite up against the ropes, and 'Digger steps over to help with the elimination! The two behemoths lift "Soldier D" up and over the top, sending him tumbling to the floor below!
With only 3 men left, the battle starts to step up in intensity. First, Corey gets double-team by his bigger foes near the ropes but the "Pucker" manages to slip away and stay in the match. Soon after, it's Gravedigger who's teetering at the hands of both Corey and Big Juan! But an elbow shot to Corey and a stiff punch to the "Mexican Brute" allows 'Digger to escape, keeping all 3 competitors in the match.
Eventually, an angry 'Digger overwhelms Corey and tosses him over the top rope to eliminate him. That left the two biggest guys left, and an intense staredown ensued. They grappled for a while, with each guy getting a near elimination! It's a close battle and the power moves start to ratchet up the damage. But in the end, a very determined 'Digger gets a weakened rookie up against the ropes. After a quick back-and-forth punch battle, Gravedigger lifts Big Juan by the legs and tosses him over to finish the match!
Gravedigger stands tall, completing the first battle royal challenge of the month! Could 'Digger really outlast any challengers in his prep for the Royal Rumble?
WINNER: Gravedigger
The match begins and the 3 challengers actually focus on each other instead of Gravedigger, but the "Monster" doesn't take long before getting involved. Big Juan gets Dynamite up against the ropes, and 'Digger steps over to help with the elimination! The two behemoths lift "Soldier D" up and over the top, sending him tumbling to the floor below!
With only 3 men left, the battle starts to step up in intensity. First, Corey gets double-team by his bigger foes near the ropes but the "Pucker" manages to slip away and stay in the match. Soon after, it's Gravedigger who's teetering at the hands of both Corey and Big Juan! But an elbow shot to Corey and a stiff punch to the "Mexican Brute" allows 'Digger to escape, keeping all 3 competitors in the match.
Eventually, an angry 'Digger overwhelms Corey and tosses him over the top rope to eliminate him. That left the two biggest guys left, and an intense staredown ensued. They grappled for a while, with each guy getting a near elimination! It's a close battle and the power moves start to ratchet up the damage. But in the end, a very determined 'Digger gets a weakened rookie up against the ropes. After a quick back-and-forth punch battle, Gravedigger lifts Big Juan by the legs and tosses him over to finish the match!
Gravedigger stands tall, completing the first battle royal challenge of the month! Could 'Digger really outlast any challengers in his prep for the Royal Rumble?
WINNER: Gravedigger
GM Office Segment
The show resumes after its final commercial break, and the cameras venture into the GM office backstage. Inside, Mr. McMahon is pacing around slowly, hand on his chin and pondering. A moment later, the door opens and he looks up to see who is entering. He smiles weakly and welcomes in... Stephanie McMahon! The Raw GM enters and approaches her father with a very judgmental expression on her face.
Steph: "Dad... I can't believe you. I feel like I'm about to lose respect for you. How... how can you support David? How can you stand by him after what he's done? He attacked another member of the roster... with a TRUCK."
Vince nods at her, but remains in thought for a second. She shakes her head and crosses her arms, waiting for him to respond. Finally, the WWE Chairman takes a breath and replies.
Mr. McMahon: "Stephanie... I've been doing a lot of reflecting throughout the show. I... I know what David did was unacceptable. I very clearly see that. But... I've also made some poor choices over the years."
Steph: "Dad... I've been there for most of your incidents. But... you've never gone this far. David threatened someone's life with his actions! DMK could have been seriously injured. For all we know, he may never come back."
Mr. McMahon: "I know. It's... a terrible situation. But... let's be honest. For all that I've done, I'd have to pay for my sins as well. If David's going to hell... then I'll have to go with him."
Stephanie is stunned at her father's words... but suddenly, an idea seems to spark in her head. She seems really excited, and addresses her father one last time.
Steph: "Sorry, Dad but... I gotta go. We'll talk later."
The Raw GM exits quickly, before Vince can reply. The WWE Chairman sits in a chair slowly, exhaling loudly as the segment ends.
Steph: "Dad... I can't believe you. I feel like I'm about to lose respect for you. How... how can you support David? How can you stand by him after what he's done? He attacked another member of the roster... with a TRUCK."
Vince nods at her, but remains in thought for a second. She shakes her head and crosses her arms, waiting for him to respond. Finally, the WWE Chairman takes a breath and replies.
Mr. McMahon: "Stephanie... I've been doing a lot of reflecting throughout the show. I... I know what David did was unacceptable. I very clearly see that. But... I've also made some poor choices over the years."
Steph: "Dad... I've been there for most of your incidents. But... you've never gone this far. David threatened someone's life with his actions! DMK could have been seriously injured. For all we know, he may never come back."
Mr. McMahon: "I know. It's... a terrible situation. But... let's be honest. For all that I've done, I'd have to pay for my sins as well. If David's going to hell... then I'll have to go with him."
Stephanie is stunned at her father's words... but suddenly, an idea seems to spark in her head. She seems really excited, and addresses her father one last time.
Steph: "Sorry, Dad but... I gotta go. We'll talk later."
The Raw GM exits quickly, before Vince can reply. The WWE Chairman sits in a chair slowly, exhaling loudly as the segment ends.
MAIN EVENT:
Extreme Rules Falls Count Anywhere Match
Big Mutha Trucker vs. David Degenerate
The night's final match gets ready, pitting the former Badass Coalition allies against each other in a hardcore-style battle! WWE champ David Degenerate was shockingly revealed as DMK's attacker at the beginning of the show, and Raw GM Stephanie McMahon placed him in this match as a punishment for what he's done. There might be more punishments coming, but at least the "Resident Redneck" will have a chance to deliver some damage to the rotten Texan!
Trucker's theme hits and the crowd cheers for him loudly, hoping to see him unleash some much-needed violence on the cowardly champ! The "Redneck" enters the ring and gets ready for his favorite match type. A moment later, David's music plays and the fans erupt into possibly the loudest boos yet, voicing their very deep anger towards the "Dangerous Genius"! David heads to the ring quietly, keeping his eyes trained on his rival. He enters the ring and loosens up for the brutal battle ahead. The bell rings and the battle gets underway!
Trucker surprises the champ with an opening headbutt, but the champ reverses into a dropkick. Trucker responds with a running shove, and decides that he needs a weapon. The "Redneck" slides out of the ring, and pulls a chair out from under the ring! He enters the ring and holds it menacingly, waiting for the champ. But when David staggers up, the "Genius" ducks the chair shot, steals it... and smacks it over Trucker's head!
David relaxes for a second but Trucker pops up to surprise him! Trucker snatches the chair back and tries again to hit the champ, but David avoids it again. The "Genius" escapes the ring, but Trucker follows close behind. The "Redneck" gets his hands on the champ, tossing him hard into the barricade. Trucker reaches into the crowd and pulls out a crutch! With David leaning against the barricade, Trucker smashes the crutch across his chest! David groans and doubles over, crawling away. The "Genius" sees the chair nearby and picks it up, but Trucker punches it right into the champ's face! Trucker doesn't let up on the attack, smashing David's head off the ring post before reaching under the ring to find... a kendo stick! The "Redneck" smacks it against David's torso while he's on the ground, but when the champ staggers up he also delivers a shot to the gut! Trucker is all fired up and wants to deliver a big move. David rises to his feet slowly and turns around, but Trucker nails him with his Big Foot finishing kick! The force of the kick causes a gash on David's forefead, and the WWE Champion starts to bleed!
Suddenly... Tank Blazer races down to the ring!!! The "Captain" grabs the confident Trucker, lifting him onto his back quickly... and slams him down on the ringside floor with his Captain's Choice finisher! The crowd boos the Hardcore champ, who taunts the weakened Trucker before leaving arrogantly. But as Tank steps onto the ramp to walk away... Mack Wheeler sprints out! The #1 contender and Tank's former rival surprises the "Captain", delivering a vicious beatdown as punishment for his unwelcome attack! Tank manages to scurry away injured, but the "Human Semi" gives chase!
The focus returns to the match competitors, but the WWE champ is the one on his feet. David finds a trash can under the ring, and starts slamming it down onto Trucker's back! The "Genius" yells at his foe and taunts the crowd, blood still trickling down his face. The champ turns back but... Trucker blinds him by placing the trash can over his head! David staggers around with his arms trapped, and Trucker grabs the chair laying nearby. The "Resident Redneck" lines up his shot, and smacks the chair hard into the side of the trash can! David collapses down to the floor, and slowly crawls out of the trash can in pain.
Trucker eyes the announce table and gets a crazy idea. He strips the announce table bare, and then grabs the ring bell! He runs over and catches David with a vicious shot to the skull! The sound of the bell dinging off David's forehead is sickening, and Trucker drags his limp body over to the announce table. He places the weakened champ onto the flat surface, and climbs up to the nearest turnbuckle. In one big leap, Trucker flies and splashes David through the table! The crowd whoops it up for the big move, as both rivals lay prone in the broken pile of wood for a few minutes!
Finally, Trucker gets the energy to crawl over and goes for the cover! The referee counts 1... 2... AND DAVID KICKS OUT! How in the world is the WWE champ still alive??? Trucker is shocked by David's last-second effort, and figures that he hasn't done enough. The "Redneck" finds another table under the ring and slides it into the ring, followed by him rolling David back in as well. Trucker leans the table against the corner, and approaches the champ. David fights back for a bit, trying to prevent catastrophe, but Trucker again gets control. He tosses David into the table in the corner, and the "Genius" leans against it trying to catch his breath. Trucker walks over and kicks him in the gut, then quickly lifting him up into a precarious position! In one big move, Trucker powerbombs the WWE Champion through the leaned table! This has got to be all for the resilient champ.
Trucker gathers himself and again goes for the cover, smiling at the cheering fans. The ref counts 1... 2... AND DAVID GRABS THE BOTTOM ROPE! The official notices and signals off the pinfall, and Trucker cannot believe that his bleeding rival is still staying in this brutal battle. Trucker scowls angrily, and decides to end the match with his best maneuvers. First, he slams David down with his White Trash signature. He lifts the dazed champ to his feet, and delivers a second Big Foot finishing kick! David flops to the mat like a crash-test dummy, and he appears to be out for good. Trucker gets his breath and approaches David's prone body for another pinfall try.
Trucker leans down... but suddenly, David pulls him into a tight pinning move! Trucker tries to wriggle free unsuccessfully, and the referee counts 1... 2... AND TRUCKER NARROWLY BREAKS FREE!!! The crowd emits a collective exhale, as the WWE champ almost stole a win in a match he's losing badly! Trucker sits up in shock, recognizing how close he came to losing this match. David lays on the mat nearby, breathing deeply and continuing to bleed slowly. How did the "Genius" manage to gather enough energy to try that move?
Frustrated and angry, Trucker decides to put this match away for good. The "Resident Redneck" whips David into the corner, and tosses him onto the mat. Trucker quickly climbs to the 2nd turnbuckle, taunts the crowd and leaps off to deliver his Noggin' Knocker flying headbutt! The signature move seems to damage the champ for good, and Trucker scores the 1-2-3 finally to win the match!
WINNER: Big Mutha Trucker
Trucker's theme hits and the crowd cheers for him loudly, hoping to see him unleash some much-needed violence on the cowardly champ! The "Redneck" enters the ring and gets ready for his favorite match type. A moment later, David's music plays and the fans erupt into possibly the loudest boos yet, voicing their very deep anger towards the "Dangerous Genius"! David heads to the ring quietly, keeping his eyes trained on his rival. He enters the ring and loosens up for the brutal battle ahead. The bell rings and the battle gets underway!
Trucker surprises the champ with an opening headbutt, but the champ reverses into a dropkick. Trucker responds with a running shove, and decides that he needs a weapon. The "Redneck" slides out of the ring, and pulls a chair out from under the ring! He enters the ring and holds it menacingly, waiting for the champ. But when David staggers up, the "Genius" ducks the chair shot, steals it... and smacks it over Trucker's head!
David relaxes for a second but Trucker pops up to surprise him! Trucker snatches the chair back and tries again to hit the champ, but David avoids it again. The "Genius" escapes the ring, but Trucker follows close behind. The "Redneck" gets his hands on the champ, tossing him hard into the barricade. Trucker reaches into the crowd and pulls out a crutch! With David leaning against the barricade, Trucker smashes the crutch across his chest! David groans and doubles over, crawling away. The "Genius" sees the chair nearby and picks it up, but Trucker punches it right into the champ's face! Trucker doesn't let up on the attack, smashing David's head off the ring post before reaching under the ring to find... a kendo stick! The "Redneck" smacks it against David's torso while he's on the ground, but when the champ staggers up he also delivers a shot to the gut! Trucker is all fired up and wants to deliver a big move. David rises to his feet slowly and turns around, but Trucker nails him with his Big Foot finishing kick! The force of the kick causes a gash on David's forefead, and the WWE Champion starts to bleed!
Suddenly... Tank Blazer races down to the ring!!! The "Captain" grabs the confident Trucker, lifting him onto his back quickly... and slams him down on the ringside floor with his Captain's Choice finisher! The crowd boos the Hardcore champ, who taunts the weakened Trucker before leaving arrogantly. But as Tank steps onto the ramp to walk away... Mack Wheeler sprints out! The #1 contender and Tank's former rival surprises the "Captain", delivering a vicious beatdown as punishment for his unwelcome attack! Tank manages to scurry away injured, but the "Human Semi" gives chase!
The focus returns to the match competitors, but the WWE champ is the one on his feet. David finds a trash can under the ring, and starts slamming it down onto Trucker's back! The "Genius" yells at his foe and taunts the crowd, blood still trickling down his face. The champ turns back but... Trucker blinds him by placing the trash can over his head! David staggers around with his arms trapped, and Trucker grabs the chair laying nearby. The "Resident Redneck" lines up his shot, and smacks the chair hard into the side of the trash can! David collapses down to the floor, and slowly crawls out of the trash can in pain.
Trucker eyes the announce table and gets a crazy idea. He strips the announce table bare, and then grabs the ring bell! He runs over and catches David with a vicious shot to the skull! The sound of the bell dinging off David's forehead is sickening, and Trucker drags his limp body over to the announce table. He places the weakened champ onto the flat surface, and climbs up to the nearest turnbuckle. In one big leap, Trucker flies and splashes David through the table! The crowd whoops it up for the big move, as both rivals lay prone in the broken pile of wood for a few minutes!
Finally, Trucker gets the energy to crawl over and goes for the cover! The referee counts 1... 2... AND DAVID KICKS OUT! How in the world is the WWE champ still alive??? Trucker is shocked by David's last-second effort, and figures that he hasn't done enough. The "Redneck" finds another table under the ring and slides it into the ring, followed by him rolling David back in as well. Trucker leans the table against the corner, and approaches the champ. David fights back for a bit, trying to prevent catastrophe, but Trucker again gets control. He tosses David into the table in the corner, and the "Genius" leans against it trying to catch his breath. Trucker walks over and kicks him in the gut, then quickly lifting him up into a precarious position! In one big move, Trucker powerbombs the WWE Champion through the leaned table! This has got to be all for the resilient champ.
Trucker gathers himself and again goes for the cover, smiling at the cheering fans. The ref counts 1... 2... AND DAVID GRABS THE BOTTOM ROPE! The official notices and signals off the pinfall, and Trucker cannot believe that his bleeding rival is still staying in this brutal battle. Trucker scowls angrily, and decides to end the match with his best maneuvers. First, he slams David down with his White Trash signature. He lifts the dazed champ to his feet, and delivers a second Big Foot finishing kick! David flops to the mat like a crash-test dummy, and he appears to be out for good. Trucker gets his breath and approaches David's prone body for another pinfall try.
Trucker leans down... but suddenly, David pulls him into a tight pinning move! Trucker tries to wriggle free unsuccessfully, and the referee counts 1... 2... AND TRUCKER NARROWLY BREAKS FREE!!! The crowd emits a collective exhale, as the WWE champ almost stole a win in a match he's losing badly! Trucker sits up in shock, recognizing how close he came to losing this match. David lays on the mat nearby, breathing deeply and continuing to bleed slowly. How did the "Genius" manage to gather enough energy to try that move?
Frustrated and angry, Trucker decides to put this match away for good. The "Resident Redneck" whips David into the corner, and tosses him onto the mat. Trucker quickly climbs to the 2nd turnbuckle, taunts the crowd and leaps off to deliver his Noggin' Knocker flying headbutt! The signature move seems to damage the champ for good, and Trucker scores the 1-2-3 finally to win the match!
WINNER: Big Mutha Trucker
Post-Match Segment
The crowd cheers loudly for the win, and Trucker raises his arms exhaustedly after a grueling battle with his rival! The "Resident Redneck" gives David a long look, stunned at how resilient his foe was. Trucker exits the ring and heads up the ramp, while David slowly sits up from the mat and realizes what happened. He wipes some blood and sweat away from his eyes, while the referee carefully places his WWE Title next to him. David grabs the belt and holds it to his chest, hugging it tightly as he tries to recover.
But suddenly... Stephanie McMahon's theme hits! The Raw GM strolls out and Trucker stops for a moment on the stage. Stephanie pats the "Redneck" on the shoulder and sends him on, as it appears she wants to address the champ! Stephanie waits for the crowd to settle and then speaks directly to the injured "Genius".
Steph: "Oh, David... I hope you're in pain. I hope you're hurting. I hope you feel as bad as DMK probably felt that night when you crushed him with that truck. Tonight was the first of many other punishments I have in store for you. And don't worry, I'm gonna let you hang on to that WWE Title... for now. But trust me, for what I have planned... you won't be holding it for long! Because I've decided how and when you will defend that title, and I have high hopes that it will be the perfect situation for you to lose... just like you did tonight. At the Royal Rumble pay-per-view, you will defend the WWE Title against the #1 contender, Mack Wheeler! After last night's match, he obviously deserves another opportunity. But it's going to be a special match for someone that deserves to rot in HELL. That's right, David... you and Mack will compete in... a 3 Stages of Hell match!!!"
The crowd erupts into cheers, and David can barely even wrap his head around what she's saying. After a brief pause, she explains more.
Steph: "A 3 Stages of Hell match is basically a 2 out of 3 falls match, where each 'stage' has a different stipulation. For Stage 1, let's schedule a match type you struggle with... the Extreme Rules, Falls Count Anywhere match! From what I just watched, Mack should have no problem winning that bout as a former Hardcore champ. Then next in Stage 2, since you were so fond of using tables during last night's match, let's make it a Tables match! I'd love to see Mack splinter some wood with your broken body! But of course, in the event you can survive at least one of those stages, we would need to schedule a Stage 3. And after surviving those first 2 stages, I'm sure you would be looking to run away and hide. But that's going to be hard to do... inside a Cage! That's right, Stage 3 will be a Steel Cage match! And after watching Mack destroy Anarchy tonight in that structure, I'm sure he'll have no problem overcoming you. So rest up, my criminal champion... because your reign is about to end in the most BRUTAL way possible!"
Stephanie smiles wide, while David glares at her through dripping blood. The smirking Raw GM is the final image of an insane show!
But suddenly... Stephanie McMahon's theme hits! The Raw GM strolls out and Trucker stops for a moment on the stage. Stephanie pats the "Redneck" on the shoulder and sends him on, as it appears she wants to address the champ! Stephanie waits for the crowd to settle and then speaks directly to the injured "Genius".
Steph: "Oh, David... I hope you're in pain. I hope you're hurting. I hope you feel as bad as DMK probably felt that night when you crushed him with that truck. Tonight was the first of many other punishments I have in store for you. And don't worry, I'm gonna let you hang on to that WWE Title... for now. But trust me, for what I have planned... you won't be holding it for long! Because I've decided how and when you will defend that title, and I have high hopes that it will be the perfect situation for you to lose... just like you did tonight. At the Royal Rumble pay-per-view, you will defend the WWE Title against the #1 contender, Mack Wheeler! After last night's match, he obviously deserves another opportunity. But it's going to be a special match for someone that deserves to rot in HELL. That's right, David... you and Mack will compete in... a 3 Stages of Hell match!!!"
The crowd erupts into cheers, and David can barely even wrap his head around what she's saying. After a brief pause, she explains more.
Steph: "A 3 Stages of Hell match is basically a 2 out of 3 falls match, where each 'stage' has a different stipulation. For Stage 1, let's schedule a match type you struggle with... the Extreme Rules, Falls Count Anywhere match! From what I just watched, Mack should have no problem winning that bout as a former Hardcore champ. Then next in Stage 2, since you were so fond of using tables during last night's match, let's make it a Tables match! I'd love to see Mack splinter some wood with your broken body! But of course, in the event you can survive at least one of those stages, we would need to schedule a Stage 3. And after surviving those first 2 stages, I'm sure you would be looking to run away and hide. But that's going to be hard to do... inside a Cage! That's right, Stage 3 will be a Steel Cage match! And after watching Mack destroy Anarchy tonight in that structure, I'm sure he'll have no problem overcoming you. So rest up, my criminal champion... because your reign is about to end in the most BRUTAL way possible!"
Stephanie smiles wide, while David glares at her through dripping blood. The smirking Raw GM is the final image of an insane show!
Week 2
With the Royal Rumble creeping closer, another great episode of Monday Night Raw opens LIVE from Milwaukee, WI!!!
In-Ring Segment
The show begins with Raw GM Stephanie McMahon making her way down to ringside! The crowd welcomes her warmly, and she smiles and waves to show her appreciation. Steph climbs into the ring and quickly begins to speak to the viewers.
Steph: "Hello Milwaukee, and welcome to another Monday Night Raw! We've got a great show planned, but of course, I can't help but feel the need to address the shocking revelation we heard last week. David Degenerate, our current reigning WWE Champion, was the one behind the wheel when DMK was struck at the conclusion of the Judgement Day pay-per-view. I had a suspicion, but the extensive work by our private investigator confirmed that David was the one who performed such a despicable act. Now... as Raw General Manager, I have the obligation to oversee the safety, security and well-being of our roster, plus the expectation to put out an entertaining product on a weekly basis. I was just as shocked as all of you when I heard about David as the culprit, but his act essentially violates all the obligations I'm expected to uphold. My first inclination is to vacate the WWE Title and suspend David immediately. Unfortunately, those actions would go against the wishes of DMK, who for some reason doesn't want David to suffer any 'extraordinary' punishments. I'm not sure of DMK's progress, but I hope he's going to recover enough to return to the Raw brand. So instead... I'm going to let David suffer the same level of physical pain that DMK suffered that fateful night. So I got an idea for a title match that will hopefully challenge David past the point of being able to keep the WWE Title. Since Mack Wheeler is obviously due some payback after being screwed out of a victory at last month's pay-per-view, I decided to create a match so difficult, so challenging, so... perfect for Mack that the odds of David surviving are slim to none. A 3 Stages of Hell match where Mack and David will battle in an Extreme Rules Falls Count Anywhere match, a Tables match and... if David can somehow win one of those two stages... a Steel Cage match! It's the worst possible scenario for our WWE Champion... which is EXACTLY what I'm planning on!"
The crowd cheers for the scheduled PPV match, but soon after... David's music hits! The WWE champ and Mr. McMahon stroll out onto the stage, with both of them showing disapproval on their expressions. David stands with his hands on his hips, glaring at the Raw GM. Vince takes a deep breath and addresses his daughter directly.
Mr. McMahon: "Stephanie... I love your commitment to your job but... I feel like you're starting to push past your obligations a bit. David may have made a poor choice a few months ago, but he is a changed man! I know he is. He doesn't deserve this unnecessary punishment. He's met and beat every challenge you've thrown his way, yet you continue to punish him. And now... a 3 Stages of Hell match? This had got to be your worst decision yet. Please, Stephanie... I'm going to ask you very nicely. Please reconsider this match!"
Vince appears to be softly pleading with his daughter to change her mind regarding the next WWE Title match. Stephanie studies her father's expression for a moment, but then gazes around the arena to gauge the fans' reaction. The crowd starts chanting "No!" repeatedly, and a sly smirk creeps over her face. Finally, she replies to Vince.
Steph: "Dad... I hear your concerns but... I just simply don't agree with them! As Raw GM, I'm allowed to conduct business how I see fit. And what I see is a cowardly champion that essentially tried to kill another member of the roster, and someone who doesn't deserve to be the champion of my prestigious brand. So... no, Dad. I will NOT be changing my mind on the 3 Stages of Hell match!"
The crowd cheers and both David & Vince react negatively. David shakes his head angrily, while Mr. McMahon scowls. The WWE Chairman addresses her daughter again.
Mr. McMahon: "Stephanie... if you go through with this, we will have to have a longer discussion about whether this role is appropriate for you."
Steph: "Dad, I can handle this job just fine. Especially when it comes to making matches! Because not only am I making a WWE Title match for the Royal Rumble... but I'm also going to make a main event match for tonight! I feel like these deserving fans here in Milwaukee would enjoy an entertaining showstopper, so I'm going to give it to them. Tonight, there will be a tag team match pitting the team of Mack Wheeler & Big Mutha Trucker... against David & Tank Blazer! Since all 4 men decided to play a role in last week's main event, then let's put them all in the same match to close our show here!"
The crowd cheers and David's intense anger is slowly starting to boil over. Vince tries unsuccessfully to calm his hand-picked champion, who glares fiercely at the smiling Raw GM! The staredown between the "Dangerous Genius" and Stephanie ends this opening segment!
Steph: "Hello Milwaukee, and welcome to another Monday Night Raw! We've got a great show planned, but of course, I can't help but feel the need to address the shocking revelation we heard last week. David Degenerate, our current reigning WWE Champion, was the one behind the wheel when DMK was struck at the conclusion of the Judgement Day pay-per-view. I had a suspicion, but the extensive work by our private investigator confirmed that David was the one who performed such a despicable act. Now... as Raw General Manager, I have the obligation to oversee the safety, security and well-being of our roster, plus the expectation to put out an entertaining product on a weekly basis. I was just as shocked as all of you when I heard about David as the culprit, but his act essentially violates all the obligations I'm expected to uphold. My first inclination is to vacate the WWE Title and suspend David immediately. Unfortunately, those actions would go against the wishes of DMK, who for some reason doesn't want David to suffer any 'extraordinary' punishments. I'm not sure of DMK's progress, but I hope he's going to recover enough to return to the Raw brand. So instead... I'm going to let David suffer the same level of physical pain that DMK suffered that fateful night. So I got an idea for a title match that will hopefully challenge David past the point of being able to keep the WWE Title. Since Mack Wheeler is obviously due some payback after being screwed out of a victory at last month's pay-per-view, I decided to create a match so difficult, so challenging, so... perfect for Mack that the odds of David surviving are slim to none. A 3 Stages of Hell match where Mack and David will battle in an Extreme Rules Falls Count Anywhere match, a Tables match and... if David can somehow win one of those two stages... a Steel Cage match! It's the worst possible scenario for our WWE Champion... which is EXACTLY what I'm planning on!"
The crowd cheers for the scheduled PPV match, but soon after... David's music hits! The WWE champ and Mr. McMahon stroll out onto the stage, with both of them showing disapproval on their expressions. David stands with his hands on his hips, glaring at the Raw GM. Vince takes a deep breath and addresses his daughter directly.
Mr. McMahon: "Stephanie... I love your commitment to your job but... I feel like you're starting to push past your obligations a bit. David may have made a poor choice a few months ago, but he is a changed man! I know he is. He doesn't deserve this unnecessary punishment. He's met and beat every challenge you've thrown his way, yet you continue to punish him. And now... a 3 Stages of Hell match? This had got to be your worst decision yet. Please, Stephanie... I'm going to ask you very nicely. Please reconsider this match!"
Vince appears to be softly pleading with his daughter to change her mind regarding the next WWE Title match. Stephanie studies her father's expression for a moment, but then gazes around the arena to gauge the fans' reaction. The crowd starts chanting "No!" repeatedly, and a sly smirk creeps over her face. Finally, she replies to Vince.
Steph: "Dad... I hear your concerns but... I just simply don't agree with them! As Raw GM, I'm allowed to conduct business how I see fit. And what I see is a cowardly champion that essentially tried to kill another member of the roster, and someone who doesn't deserve to be the champion of my prestigious brand. So... no, Dad. I will NOT be changing my mind on the 3 Stages of Hell match!"
The crowd cheers and both David & Vince react negatively. David shakes his head angrily, while Mr. McMahon scowls. The WWE Chairman addresses her daughter again.
Mr. McMahon: "Stephanie... if you go through with this, we will have to have a longer discussion about whether this role is appropriate for you."
Steph: "Dad, I can handle this job just fine. Especially when it comes to making matches! Because not only am I making a WWE Title match for the Royal Rumble... but I'm also going to make a main event match for tonight! I feel like these deserving fans here in Milwaukee would enjoy an entertaining showstopper, so I'm going to give it to them. Tonight, there will be a tag team match pitting the team of Mack Wheeler & Big Mutha Trucker... against David & Tank Blazer! Since all 4 men decided to play a role in last week's main event, then let's put them all in the same match to close our show here!"
The crowd cheers and David's intense anger is slowly starting to boil over. Vince tries unsuccessfully to calm his hand-picked champion, who glares fiercely at the smiling Raw GM! The staredown between the "Dangerous Genius" and Stephanie ends this opening segment!
Beth Phoenix vs. Melina
The first match of the night will have the "Glamazon" taking on the Hollywood starlet! Beth Phoenix has been feuding with Brittany Black for months, and lost her Divas Title to the "Evil Diva" back at the Judgment Day PPV in October. A rematch between them has yet to take place, but the rivalry has continued. The "Glamazon" enters first to a supportive cheer, and she waits for her opponent. Next, Melina's theme hits and she poses for the cameramen that accompany her entrance. The former Divas champ climbs in and eyes her foe with an intense glare. Both ladies get ready to battle...
... but suddenly, Brittany's music plays! The hard-rocking Divas Champion strolls down to the ring arrogantly, catching the attention of both females. The "Evil Diva" walks along the barricade and hops over, pulling up a chair in the front row! Brittany claps her hands mockingly as apparently she's going to get a first-hand look at tonight's match! The referee calls for the bell, and the ladies in the ring turn their attention back towards each other!
Beth dominates the first part of the match, hitting a few running DDTs and some power moves. With Melina down, the "Glamazon" feels the need to address her rival directly! Beth exits the ring and walks over to Brittany's spot, and a war of words ensues! Brittany continues to motion her back towards the ring, while Beth points at the Divas Title. Finally, the ref's count starts to get too high and Beth steps back up onto the apron. But when she does, Melina runs over and clotheslines her down to the floor! Beth essentially distracted herself and paid the price!
Melina climbs out to follow up her attack, but Phoenix bounces back quickly. Beth tosses the Hollywood starlet into the corner right next to Brittany, and starts delivering nasty punches to her foe's face! The "Glamazon" taunts and trash-talks her observing rival between punches, which actually shocks the Divas champ a bit. Determined to do more damage in the ring, Beth rolls her opponent back in.
But back in the ring, Melina again counters and takes control. After a few big moves, Melina reverses an Irish whip and sends Beth into the corner. Melina climbs onto the turnbuckle while Beth staggers out, and the Hollywood starlet leaps off to attempt a flying body splash! But Beth recovers just in time, and moves quickly to send Melina crashing down to the mat! Using the miss to her advantage, Beth plants her foe with her Fisherman Suplex signature... and follows up with her Glam Slam Stretch submission hold! Melina groans and screams in pain, while Beth applies more pressure. But suddenly... Maryse sprints down to ringside and leaps onto the apron to distract the referee! The "Glamazon" notices her rival's ally causing a problem, and releases the submission hold to deal with it. Maryse steps down, but Beth exits to the ring to attack her! The French-Canadian beauty takes off after suffering the attack, limping away but pleased with her actions.
Melina slides out of the ring and starts to walk around slowly, trying to recover and avoid her determined foe. Beth chases Maryse away, and shares a staredown with her rival in the front row. When the "Glamazon" turns her attention back to her opponent, she notices the Hollywood starlet trying to avoid her at all costs. Beth chases her, but Melina continues to briskly walk away from her. Frustrated, Beth cuts through the ring and catches her foe with a running DDT! The move continues the battle between them, but Melina actually delivers more damage. A sharp suplex and an athletic hurricanrana daze the "Glamazon" and earns cheers from the Divas champ watching nearby.
But when the action returns to the ring, Beth decides enough is enough and puts a finish to the battle. After hitting Melina with a big power move, Phoenix follows up with another Fisherman Suplex signature. This time, she plants her foe with her Glam Slam finisher and pins her to finally win the match!
WINNER: Beth Phoenix
... but suddenly, Brittany's music plays! The hard-rocking Divas Champion strolls down to the ring arrogantly, catching the attention of both females. The "Evil Diva" walks along the barricade and hops over, pulling up a chair in the front row! Brittany claps her hands mockingly as apparently she's going to get a first-hand look at tonight's match! The referee calls for the bell, and the ladies in the ring turn their attention back towards each other!
Beth dominates the first part of the match, hitting a few running DDTs and some power moves. With Melina down, the "Glamazon" feels the need to address her rival directly! Beth exits the ring and walks over to Brittany's spot, and a war of words ensues! Brittany continues to motion her back towards the ring, while Beth points at the Divas Title. Finally, the ref's count starts to get too high and Beth steps back up onto the apron. But when she does, Melina runs over and clotheslines her down to the floor! Beth essentially distracted herself and paid the price!
Melina climbs out to follow up her attack, but Phoenix bounces back quickly. Beth tosses the Hollywood starlet into the corner right next to Brittany, and starts delivering nasty punches to her foe's face! The "Glamazon" taunts and trash-talks her observing rival between punches, which actually shocks the Divas champ a bit. Determined to do more damage in the ring, Beth rolls her opponent back in.
But back in the ring, Melina again counters and takes control. After a few big moves, Melina reverses an Irish whip and sends Beth into the corner. Melina climbs onto the turnbuckle while Beth staggers out, and the Hollywood starlet leaps off to attempt a flying body splash! But Beth recovers just in time, and moves quickly to send Melina crashing down to the mat! Using the miss to her advantage, Beth plants her foe with her Fisherman Suplex signature... and follows up with her Glam Slam Stretch submission hold! Melina groans and screams in pain, while Beth applies more pressure. But suddenly... Maryse sprints down to ringside and leaps onto the apron to distract the referee! The "Glamazon" notices her rival's ally causing a problem, and releases the submission hold to deal with it. Maryse steps down, but Beth exits to the ring to attack her! The French-Canadian beauty takes off after suffering the attack, limping away but pleased with her actions.
Melina slides out of the ring and starts to walk around slowly, trying to recover and avoid her determined foe. Beth chases Maryse away, and shares a staredown with her rival in the front row. When the "Glamazon" turns her attention back to her opponent, she notices the Hollywood starlet trying to avoid her at all costs. Beth chases her, but Melina continues to briskly walk away from her. Frustrated, Beth cuts through the ring and catches her foe with a running DDT! The move continues the battle between them, but Melina actually delivers more damage. A sharp suplex and an athletic hurricanrana daze the "Glamazon" and earns cheers from the Divas champ watching nearby.
But when the action returns to the ring, Beth decides enough is enough and puts a finish to the battle. After hitting Melina with a big power move, Phoenix follows up with another Fisherman Suplex signature. This time, she plants her foe with her Glam Slam finisher and pins her to finally win the match!
WINNER: Beth Phoenix
Post-Match Segment
When the bell rings to signal Beth's win, the crowd gives her a big cheer and she lets the ref raise her arm in celebration. But soon after, the celebration is cut short when Divas champ Brittany Black leaps back over the barricade and grabs a microphone from the ringside crew. Brittany had watched the whole match from the front row, but now decides to speak to her rival.
Brittany: "Wow! What a great match! I'm SO impressed! I'm so happy that Beth can beat the lowlife trash bags here on Raw. Too bad she's not strong enough to beat me! That would require an ability to focus and a determination that I didn't see tonight."
Beth gets her own mic and replies to her rival.
Beth: "Well why don't you step in between these ropes and prove that I don't have what it takes?"
Brittany chuckles and responds.
Brittany: "Oh, Beth. You're not in the right physical condition to face me right now! You just had a match, and if you really hope to beat me, you're gonna need to be in tip-top shape."
Beth: "I'm in the best shape of my life. I could beat you right now. You're afraid! I underestimated you in the last title match, but I'm not going to do that next time. Plus, I don't use cheap shots to get what I want. You want to be considered a good champion? Face me honestly and without cheap shots. I want my title rematch! Name the time and the place, and I'll prove to YOU just how much you are underestimating ME!"
Brittany considers the offer, but then a smirk comes over her face. Brittany replies.
Brittany: "A title match? Why, sure! Why not? This title belt is getting dusty with no true challengers. Might as well put it on the line for basically an exhibition, tune-up match."
Beth: "We'll just see about that, won't we?"
Brittany: "I guess we will. There's an important pay-per-view coming up this month, so why don't we make the match for then? If I'm gonna embarrass you, I might as well do it in front of millions and millions of viewers!"
Beth: "And when I win the match and the title, then YOU will be the one embarrassed!"
The rivals hold an intense staredown as the segment comes to a close. The Divas Title will be on the line at the Royal Rumble!
Brittany: "Wow! What a great match! I'm SO impressed! I'm so happy that Beth can beat the lowlife trash bags here on Raw. Too bad she's not strong enough to beat me! That would require an ability to focus and a determination that I didn't see tonight."
Beth gets her own mic and replies to her rival.
Beth: "Well why don't you step in between these ropes and prove that I don't have what it takes?"
Brittany chuckles and responds.
Brittany: "Oh, Beth. You're not in the right physical condition to face me right now! You just had a match, and if you really hope to beat me, you're gonna need to be in tip-top shape."
Beth: "I'm in the best shape of my life. I could beat you right now. You're afraid! I underestimated you in the last title match, but I'm not going to do that next time. Plus, I don't use cheap shots to get what I want. You want to be considered a good champion? Face me honestly and without cheap shots. I want my title rematch! Name the time and the place, and I'll prove to YOU just how much you are underestimating ME!"
Brittany considers the offer, but then a smirk comes over her face. Brittany replies.
Brittany: "A title match? Why, sure! Why not? This title belt is getting dusty with no true challengers. Might as well put it on the line for basically an exhibition, tune-up match."
Beth: "We'll just see about that, won't we?"
Brittany: "I guess we will. There's an important pay-per-view coming up this month, so why don't we make the match for then? If I'm gonna embarrass you, I might as well do it in front of millions and millions of viewers!"
Beth: "And when I win the match and the title, then YOU will be the one embarrassed!"
The rivals hold an intense staredown as the segment comes to a close. The Divas Title will be on the line at the Royal Rumble!
Backstage Segment
After a brief commercial break, the show returns and we see Lee Money warming up for his match against U.S. champ and former friend Renegade. "Cash" bounces from side to side and stretches his arms out. A minute later, someone walks over to talk... Brett Diamond! The "Professional" was saved by Lee from a post-match attack at the last PPV, and it seems the former friends are now close allies again. Brett catches Lee's attention and speaks.
Brett: "What's up, brother? Good luck tonight."
Lee: "Thanks man. Appreciate it."
Brett: "That crazy dude is starting to drive ME crazy. He's gone completely off the rails."
Lee: "I know. I haven't figured out what's the matter. He was NOT like this a year ago. Something's changed."
Brett: "Well, he's lost all sense of common decency. He's always pushing things too far. I've been meaning to ask you... would you like me to join you at ringside? I can be there to help protect you in the event Renegade has another mental breakdown and tries something unwarranted."
Lee ponders the offer for a moment and responds.
Lee: "Nah, I'm good, man. I do appreciate it though. I'll be able to handle things myself."
Brett: "Okay, that's cool. But... I will be watching the match very closely. I'll be nearby too. Just in case... you know... he does something stupid. I'll be down to the ring in a few seconds."
Lee: "Sounds good. I'll probably be okay. I know Renegade pretty well, so I know what his tells are."
Brett: "Okay. Good luck again, brother. Beat his ass for me!"
The two share a handshake and Lee nods confidently. Brett exits the scene and Lee continues to stretch out for this upcoming match. The segment comes to an end with "Cash" working on his legs.
Brett: "What's up, brother? Good luck tonight."
Lee: "Thanks man. Appreciate it."
Brett: "That crazy dude is starting to drive ME crazy. He's gone completely off the rails."
Lee: "I know. I haven't figured out what's the matter. He was NOT like this a year ago. Something's changed."
Brett: "Well, he's lost all sense of common decency. He's always pushing things too far. I've been meaning to ask you... would you like me to join you at ringside? I can be there to help protect you in the event Renegade has another mental breakdown and tries something unwarranted."
Lee ponders the offer for a moment and responds.
Lee: "Nah, I'm good, man. I do appreciate it though. I'll be able to handle things myself."
Brett: "Okay, that's cool. But... I will be watching the match very closely. I'll be nearby too. Just in case... you know... he does something stupid. I'll be down to the ring in a few seconds."
Lee: "Sounds good. I'll probably be okay. I know Renegade pretty well, so I know what his tells are."
Brett: "Okay. Good luck again, brother. Beat his ass for me!"
The two share a handshake and Lee nods confidently. Brett exits the scene and Lee continues to stretch out for this upcoming match. The segment comes to an end with "Cash" working on his legs.
4-Man Battle Royal:
Gravedigger vs. Billy Carter vs. Vincent Serum vs. Jester Price
The second Royal Rumble preview featuring a determined Gravedigger is about to kick off, as the "Graveyard Monster" will attempt to prove his battle royal prowess against 3 Smackdown grapplers! Since the Rumble will combine members of both brands, it only makes sense for 'Digger to try to toss out some blue-brand competitors.
Gravedigger enters first and strolls confidently to the ring, ready to pull off another win as he preps for a potential game-changing Rumble victory. Next, Billy Carter's music hits and the "Canadian Bomber" heads to the battle zone, eyeing the "Monster" cautiously. Vincent Serum comes out next, trying to scare the Raw fans and his opponents on his way down the ramp. Finally, Smackdown's newest rookie comes out and has a very bouncy, cocky entrance. Jester scoffs at all his opponents for tonight, including a glaring 'Digger. The bell rings once everyone gets set, and this battle royal is off!
The smaller grapplers take each other on, while Gravedigger goes after Serum. The "Monster" stuns the "Vicious Vampire" with a big boot, setting the tone for the bout. 'Digger punches his foe over and over, while Jester nails Billy with a dropkick. Gravedigger blasts Serum with a gut punch, which sends him staggering into the ropes. 'Digger gets aggressive and starts trying to leverage him over the top, but Serum keeps his balance for a little bit. Finally, a wayward elbow stuns Serum for a second and gives 'Digger just the opening he needs. He lifts Serum's legs and send the "Vicious Vampire" over the top rope, eliminating him from the match!
With Serum gone, Gravedigger now turns his attention to the battling cruiserweights. Jester kicks Billy in the chest, and the "Bomber" turns towards 'Digger's direction. Gravedigger quickly lifts Billy up... and powerbombs him hard to the mat! Jester runs over to try and catch the "Monster" off-guard, but Gravedigger responds with a massive big boot! All 3 men continue to battle, and Billy and Jester manage to each get some shots in on their huge foe. 'Digger gets angry, and focuses more on Billy. Gravedigger shoves the Canadian rocker into the ropes, and snatches him by the throat. Billy can't wriggle free, and 'Digger lifts him up... and chokeslams him onto the ringside floor below! Billy is eliminated!
That leaves Gravedigger and the "Toughest Comedian Alive" to battle it out. Jester proves to be a tough elimination, breaking out of two separate attempts to toss him over from the corner turnbuckle. Gravedigger then whips him hard into the ropes and tries to clothesline him over, but Jester pulls the top rope down and 'Digger flies over! The "Monster" grabs the rope at the last second, pulling himself onto the apron before being eliminated. Gravedigger lays on the apron, and Jester starts trying to push him out with his foot! 'Digger grabs the bottom rope tightly, trying to keep his balance to avoid tumbling to the floor below. Finally, Gravedigger wiggles free and shoves Jester back to keep himself alive!
The near elimination angers 'Digger even more, and his attacks become more and more aggressive. A nasty punch to the gut sends Jester stumbling into the ropes, gasping for breath. Sensing the moment, Gravedigger grabs him by the throat... and chokeslams him down to the ringside floor for the final elimination!
'Digger raises his arms in celebration, while Jester pounds on the apron in frustration. The "Monster" has proven himself again with a 2nd-straight battle royal win, and with 2 more apparently ahead, could they become more challenging?
WINNER: Gravedigger
Gravedigger enters first and strolls confidently to the ring, ready to pull off another win as he preps for a potential game-changing Rumble victory. Next, Billy Carter's music hits and the "Canadian Bomber" heads to the battle zone, eyeing the "Monster" cautiously. Vincent Serum comes out next, trying to scare the Raw fans and his opponents on his way down the ramp. Finally, Smackdown's newest rookie comes out and has a very bouncy, cocky entrance. Jester scoffs at all his opponents for tonight, including a glaring 'Digger. The bell rings once everyone gets set, and this battle royal is off!
The smaller grapplers take each other on, while Gravedigger goes after Serum. The "Monster" stuns the "Vicious Vampire" with a big boot, setting the tone for the bout. 'Digger punches his foe over and over, while Jester nails Billy with a dropkick. Gravedigger blasts Serum with a gut punch, which sends him staggering into the ropes. 'Digger gets aggressive and starts trying to leverage him over the top, but Serum keeps his balance for a little bit. Finally, a wayward elbow stuns Serum for a second and gives 'Digger just the opening he needs. He lifts Serum's legs and send the "Vicious Vampire" over the top rope, eliminating him from the match!
With Serum gone, Gravedigger now turns his attention to the battling cruiserweights. Jester kicks Billy in the chest, and the "Bomber" turns towards 'Digger's direction. Gravedigger quickly lifts Billy up... and powerbombs him hard to the mat! Jester runs over to try and catch the "Monster" off-guard, but Gravedigger responds with a massive big boot! All 3 men continue to battle, and Billy and Jester manage to each get some shots in on their huge foe. 'Digger gets angry, and focuses more on Billy. Gravedigger shoves the Canadian rocker into the ropes, and snatches him by the throat. Billy can't wriggle free, and 'Digger lifts him up... and chokeslams him onto the ringside floor below! Billy is eliminated!
That leaves Gravedigger and the "Toughest Comedian Alive" to battle it out. Jester proves to be a tough elimination, breaking out of two separate attempts to toss him over from the corner turnbuckle. Gravedigger then whips him hard into the ropes and tries to clothesline him over, but Jester pulls the top rope down and 'Digger flies over! The "Monster" grabs the rope at the last second, pulling himself onto the apron before being eliminated. Gravedigger lays on the apron, and Jester starts trying to push him out with his foot! 'Digger grabs the bottom rope tightly, trying to keep his balance to avoid tumbling to the floor below. Finally, Gravedigger wiggles free and shoves Jester back to keep himself alive!
The near elimination angers 'Digger even more, and his attacks become more and more aggressive. A nasty punch to the gut sends Jester stumbling into the ropes, gasping for breath. Sensing the moment, Gravedigger grabs him by the throat... and chokeslams him down to the ringside floor for the final elimination!
'Digger raises his arms in celebration, while Jester pounds on the apron in frustration. The "Monster" has proven himself again with a 2nd-straight battle royal win, and with 2 more apparently ahead, could they become more challenging?
WINNER: Gravedigger
Vignette
When the show returns from break, a similar video vignette from last week is shown before the next match. Thunder rumbles and images of dangerous weather events like tornados, hurricanes, monsoon rains, flooding and huge lightning cracks are shown. Following the weather clips is a large man flexing over and over. The video doesn't show his face, but focuses instead on individual muscles being flexed. Finally, the vignette ends with the words "SEE THE LIGHTNING..." before snapping to a black screen and fading out.
Renegade vs. Lee Money
A grudge match between former tag partners is next, with the erratic U.S. champ facing off against the man they call "Cash"! After Renegade won back the U.S. Title from Brett Diamond at the last PPV, he tried to attack the "Professional" with a chair post-match. Lee ran down and made the save before the "Party Animal" could strike, but Renegade apparently took offense to the act. When Lee confronted his former pal over his action, Renegade challenged him to a match instead!
Lee comes out first, looking excited and confident to take on the U.S. champ. "Cash" enters the ring and waits patiently for his opponent. Renegade's music hits and the crowd welcomes him with lots of jeers, but the U.S. champ doesn't appear. Suddenly... Renegade clotheslines Lee from behind! The jeers increase in volume, but the "Party Animal" signals that he's going to try for his finishing kick right away. Lee staggers to his feet as Renegade stomps his foot, and the U.S. champ greets him with a vicious Kick-olution! Renegade steps back, laughing hysterically as this match gets underway in an insane manner!
Renegade tosses Lee into the ropes, and attempts to spear him off the apron and down to the floor. But when Renegade sprints over, "Cash" pulls the top rope down and the U.S. champ goes tumbling down himself! Lee takes a moment to shake off the cobwebs, while an angry U.S. champ jumps back to his feet. Renegade grabs "Cash" by the ankle and pulls his foe down, planting him down on his back. The "Party Animal" lifts him up quickly and whips him hard into the steel steps, setting a surprisingly dangerous tone for a normal match! Renegade turns towards the announce table, and decides to strip it bare to possibly use! Meanwhile, Lee notices his opponent doing something crazy and decides to simply re-enter the ring.
Frustrated, Renegade reaches up and pulls Lee's chin down onto the top rope, sending him staggering back. The U.S. champ climbs up the closest turnbuckle, and jumps off to plant his foe with a flying body splash! Lee uses the ropes to get back to his feet, but the "Wild One" races over and clotheslines him over the top rope. Renegade continues his assault with another flying move, this time delivering a knee drop to the outside!
Renegade tries to place his opponent on the bare announce table, but Lee fights him off and escapes, sliding back into the ring to avoid danger. The "Party Animal" groans in anger again, and pulls his foe's neck down onto the top rope to daze him. Renegade slides into the ring, and plants him with a full-nelson bulldog! Desperate to use the announce table to his advantage, Renegade again sends his foe outside the ring by dropkicking him. This time, Lee is too hurt to fight him off an the "Party Animal" lays him onto the table. The crazy U.S. champ climbs the turnbuckle, steadies himself... and leaps off to drive Lee through the wooden structure with a flying elbow drop! The crowd is stunned by Renegade's insanity and both men lay in the splintered table for a few moments.
Both men stagger to their feet, but the fired-up U.S. champ blasts Lee with another Kick-olution! "Cash" collapses to the floor, and the referee continues to count. Renegade smirks strangely and he starts mouthing the referee's count. Is he trying to win by countout? The referee reaches 8, but suddenly... Lee is on his feet! He sprints past the U.S. champ and desperately slides into the ring to avoid the countout! The fans cheer wildly as "Cash" shows his resiliency despite facing an insane opponent!
Renegade grabs his head in anger, and the frustration seems to finally boil over. The steel steps are loose nearby after he tossed Lee into them earlier, and the U.S. champ snags them and re-enters the ring with them! The official tries to remind Renegade that this is not a No DQ match, so if he uses those as a weapon, it would cause a disqualification. Renegade brushes off the referee's concerns, and waits patiently for a weakened Money to rise off the mat. When he does, the "Party Animal" races over and smashes the steel into his face! The shot knocks Lee out for good, but the referee calls for the bell! Instead of finishing the match he was dominating, Renegade takes a deliberate DQ!
Suddenly... Brett Diamond races down to the ring! Renegade is staring down at his unconscious foe, and doesn't see his rival coming! The "Professional" slides into the ring and the U.S. champ finally spots him... and he gets spooked and takes off! Renegade rolls out of the ring quickly, grabbing his title belt and hightailing it through the crowd! Brett gives chase for a few steps, but realizes that the erratic champ is too far gone. Instead, the "Professional" turns back and checks on his injured friend as the crowd cheers for Brett's save!
WINNER (by DQ): Lee Money
Lee comes out first, looking excited and confident to take on the U.S. champ. "Cash" enters the ring and waits patiently for his opponent. Renegade's music hits and the crowd welcomes him with lots of jeers, but the U.S. champ doesn't appear. Suddenly... Renegade clotheslines Lee from behind! The jeers increase in volume, but the "Party Animal" signals that he's going to try for his finishing kick right away. Lee staggers to his feet as Renegade stomps his foot, and the U.S. champ greets him with a vicious Kick-olution! Renegade steps back, laughing hysterically as this match gets underway in an insane manner!
Renegade tosses Lee into the ropes, and attempts to spear him off the apron and down to the floor. But when Renegade sprints over, "Cash" pulls the top rope down and the U.S. champ goes tumbling down himself! Lee takes a moment to shake off the cobwebs, while an angry U.S. champ jumps back to his feet. Renegade grabs "Cash" by the ankle and pulls his foe down, planting him down on his back. The "Party Animal" lifts him up quickly and whips him hard into the steel steps, setting a surprisingly dangerous tone for a normal match! Renegade turns towards the announce table, and decides to strip it bare to possibly use! Meanwhile, Lee notices his opponent doing something crazy and decides to simply re-enter the ring.
Frustrated, Renegade reaches up and pulls Lee's chin down onto the top rope, sending him staggering back. The U.S. champ climbs up the closest turnbuckle, and jumps off to plant his foe with a flying body splash! Lee uses the ropes to get back to his feet, but the "Wild One" races over and clotheslines him over the top rope. Renegade continues his assault with another flying move, this time delivering a knee drop to the outside!
Renegade tries to place his opponent on the bare announce table, but Lee fights him off and escapes, sliding back into the ring to avoid danger. The "Party Animal" groans in anger again, and pulls his foe's neck down onto the top rope to daze him. Renegade slides into the ring, and plants him with a full-nelson bulldog! Desperate to use the announce table to his advantage, Renegade again sends his foe outside the ring by dropkicking him. This time, Lee is too hurt to fight him off an the "Party Animal" lays him onto the table. The crazy U.S. champ climbs the turnbuckle, steadies himself... and leaps off to drive Lee through the wooden structure with a flying elbow drop! The crowd is stunned by Renegade's insanity and both men lay in the splintered table for a few moments.
Both men stagger to their feet, but the fired-up U.S. champ blasts Lee with another Kick-olution! "Cash" collapses to the floor, and the referee continues to count. Renegade smirks strangely and he starts mouthing the referee's count. Is he trying to win by countout? The referee reaches 8, but suddenly... Lee is on his feet! He sprints past the U.S. champ and desperately slides into the ring to avoid the countout! The fans cheer wildly as "Cash" shows his resiliency despite facing an insane opponent!
Renegade grabs his head in anger, and the frustration seems to finally boil over. The steel steps are loose nearby after he tossed Lee into them earlier, and the U.S. champ snags them and re-enters the ring with them! The official tries to remind Renegade that this is not a No DQ match, so if he uses those as a weapon, it would cause a disqualification. Renegade brushes off the referee's concerns, and waits patiently for a weakened Money to rise off the mat. When he does, the "Party Animal" races over and smashes the steel into his face! The shot knocks Lee out for good, but the referee calls for the bell! Instead of finishing the match he was dominating, Renegade takes a deliberate DQ!
Suddenly... Brett Diamond races down to the ring! Renegade is staring down at his unconscious foe, and doesn't see his rival coming! The "Professional" slides into the ring and the U.S. champ finally spots him... and he gets spooked and takes off! Renegade rolls out of the ring quickly, grabbing his title belt and hightailing it through the crowd! Brett gives chase for a few steps, but realizes that the erratic champ is too far gone. Instead, the "Professional" turns back and checks on his injured friend as the crowd cheers for Brett's save!
WINNER (by DQ): Lee Money
Backstage Segment
The show returns from its final break of the evening, and a quick pre-match set of clips is shown before the main event. First up is a strategy session between Mack Wheeler and Big Mutha Trucker. The camera picks up their conversation midway.
Mack: "I've got David for sure. That punk is afraid of me."
Trucker: "I can take him as well. I beat his ass last week, and I'll do it again. I'm more concerned about facing Tank. We both have a history with him, but he needs to get checked after last week's attack and him going too far after beating Corey the week before. He won that title match, he doesn't need to rub it in with a post-match attack."
Mack: "I agree, that's messed up. Let's stay focused tonight and give them a sour taste of losing!"
The main-event partners shake hands and head towards the ring. The cameras then switch over to another strategy session between David Degenerate and Tank Blazer... which is not going as well.
David: "I don't care what you THINK you can do. Just let me handle it."
Tank: "Let YOU handle it? After the way you handled that hardcore match last week?"
David: "Trucker went above and beyond last week. Plus I wasn't mentally ready. I'm dealing with this DMK attack bullcrap. My mind was elsewhere."
Tank: "And now I'm supposed to let YOU handle things?"
David: "YES. Get it through your thick, bald skull. I'm the damn WWE Champion, and you're not. That means I get to call the shots!"
Tank: "Whatever. Just... just stay outta my way tonight."
David: "No, no, Tank... You stay outta MINE."
The duo stare each other down for a moment, but then the "Captain" scoffs at David and walks off. David watches him leave with a scowl and then looks down at the WWE Title wrapped around his waist. The camera focuses on the golden belt as the segment ends!
Mack: "I've got David for sure. That punk is afraid of me."
Trucker: "I can take him as well. I beat his ass last week, and I'll do it again. I'm more concerned about facing Tank. We both have a history with him, but he needs to get checked after last week's attack and him going too far after beating Corey the week before. He won that title match, he doesn't need to rub it in with a post-match attack."
Mack: "I agree, that's messed up. Let's stay focused tonight and give them a sour taste of losing!"
The main-event partners shake hands and head towards the ring. The cameras then switch over to another strategy session between David Degenerate and Tank Blazer... which is not going as well.
David: "I don't care what you THINK you can do. Just let me handle it."
Tank: "Let YOU handle it? After the way you handled that hardcore match last week?"
David: "Trucker went above and beyond last week. Plus I wasn't mentally ready. I'm dealing with this DMK attack bullcrap. My mind was elsewhere."
Tank: "And now I'm supposed to let YOU handle things?"
David: "YES. Get it through your thick, bald skull. I'm the damn WWE Champion, and you're not. That means I get to call the shots!"
Tank: "Whatever. Just... just stay outta my way tonight."
David: "No, no, Tank... You stay outta MINE."
The duo stare each other down for a moment, but then the "Captain" scoffs at David and walks off. David watches him leave with a scowl and then looks down at the WWE Title wrapped around his waist. The camera focuses on the golden belt as the segment ends!
MAIN EVENT:
Big Mutha Trucker & Mack Wheeler vs.
David Degenerate (w/ Mr. McMahon) & Tank Blazer
The show-closing battle will be a tag match combining two budding rivalries on the red brand! Stephanie McMahon put together opposing teams with Mack Wheeler & Big Mutha Trucker facing off against WWE champ David Degenerate & Hardcore champ Tank Blazer. The "Resident Redneck" enters first, garnering big cheers from the Milwaukee fans. His partner for the evening, the "Human Semi" and #1 contender for the WWE Title, strolls to the ring with quiet confidence and gets himself ready to fight. David Degenerate's theme plays, and the hated WWE Champion heads to the ring accompanied by Mr. McMahon. The final entrance of the "Captain" draws jeers from the fans, and the respective duos talk last-minute strategy before the bell rings to start the match!
Trucker and David start things off, but the "Redneck" dominates the champ early on. He places David onto the top turnbuckle, backs up a few steps... and dropkicks the "Dangerous Genius" down to the floor! Trucker exits the ring but Tank steps down off the apron to meet him. Trucker brawls with both men on the outside, but he holds his own long enough for Mack to come over and help. While Mack occupies the "Captain", Trucker plants David with his White Trash signature! With the WWE champ down, Trucker slides into the ring and tags a ready Mack in, who suplexes David back into the ring off the apron. David gives a desperate tag to Tank, needing time to recover from a rough start.
Tank enters the match but encounters a fired-up "Human Semi", who immediately reverses a clothesline attempt with a German suplex! To follow up, Mack waits in the opposite corner... and blasts the Hardcore champ with a Speeding Semi finishing spear! Mack tries for a pin, but Mr. McMahon steps up onto the apron to pull the ref's attention! With the ref's back turned, David runs into the ring and starts stomping angrily on Mack. Trucker races in and starts trading punches with the WWE champ, and Mack himself delivers a vicious slam to damage the "Genius" even more! David exits the ring and Vince steps down when Mack gives him a fierce glare, but the distractions are enough to change the momentum briefly.
Tank catches Mack off-guard with a belly-to-back suplex, and he starts to rally back with power moves and painful punches. Mack finally reverses an Irish whip and sends the "Captain" into his corner, where he tags Trucker back in. Together, Trucker & Mack knock Tank down with a double-team shoulder block! Tank crawls to the corner to tag in David, and the WWE champ sprints into the ring... but runs into a shoulder block by the "Redneck"! Trucker dominates the woozy "Genius" even more, landing a powerbomb, a signature Trucker's Special hip splash and his signature Noggin' Knocker flying headbutt. Trucker goes for the pinfall but Tank dives in to break it up at the last second.
Vince had been continually distracting the ref all match long, and the official had enough of the WWE Chairman's actions. As a result... the referee ordered Mr. McMahon to exit the ringside area! Vince was stunned and demanded an explanation, bu the official refused to argue with him and sent him away. Vince snarled and walked away reluctantly, barking insults at the official the whole way. David was distraught as he watched his corporate ally leave, but his sadness turned to anger.
Mack & Trucker teamed up to deliver a gut kick to the WWE champ, but David decided to use his speed advantage to rally back. David delivered a variety of dropkicks to the #1 contender, knocking him down over and over. The running around tired him out, and the "Genius" tagged out to his partner. Tank ran in to try and keep the momentum, but Mack surprised him with his 3-Wheeler signature combo of suplexes! Mack follows up with a sidewalk slam and a belly-to-belly suplex before tagging out to the "Redneck".
Trucker uses Mack's rally well, landing his White Trash signature on the "Captain". When Tank staggers to his feet, Trucker nails him in the face with his Big Foot finishing kick... which busts the Hardcore champ open! David enters the ring in a furious fit of anger, throwing a flurry of wild punches at Trucker. Mack enters as well, and helps the "Redneck" fight off the WWE champ. The brawl spills outside while Tank recovers, but David can only fight so much against 2 guys. When Tank staggers to his feet, Trucker slides back in... and delivers another Big Foot finishing kick! Trucker goes for the pin and the referee counts 1... 2... AND TANK GETS A FOOT ON THE ROPE! The "Captain" barely kept the match alive, and Trucker is shocked that he couldn't put the match away!
Both exhausted legal men crawl to their corners, getting tags to Mack and David. The rivals trade blows for a bit, but the "Human Semi" counters a move with a huge German suplex! The move dazes the WWE champ for good, and Mack follows up with his 3-Wheeler signature. With the fans excited for a possible finish, Mack backs into the corner and sizes up his rival for a spear. When David rises off the mat, Mack crushes him with a Speeding Semi spear! Trucker prevents Tank from interfering and Mack gets the successful 1-2-3 count to win the match!
The crowd erupts into cheers, and Mack scores yet another clean win over the WWE Champion! Trucker & Mack celebrate happily, while a bloody Tank exits the area quickly. The show ends with the fan-favorite duo standing tall over the unconscious WWE champ!
WINNERS: Big Mutha Trucker & Mack Wheeler
Trucker and David start things off, but the "Redneck" dominates the champ early on. He places David onto the top turnbuckle, backs up a few steps... and dropkicks the "Dangerous Genius" down to the floor! Trucker exits the ring but Tank steps down off the apron to meet him. Trucker brawls with both men on the outside, but he holds his own long enough for Mack to come over and help. While Mack occupies the "Captain", Trucker plants David with his White Trash signature! With the WWE champ down, Trucker slides into the ring and tags a ready Mack in, who suplexes David back into the ring off the apron. David gives a desperate tag to Tank, needing time to recover from a rough start.
Tank enters the match but encounters a fired-up "Human Semi", who immediately reverses a clothesline attempt with a German suplex! To follow up, Mack waits in the opposite corner... and blasts the Hardcore champ with a Speeding Semi finishing spear! Mack tries for a pin, but Mr. McMahon steps up onto the apron to pull the ref's attention! With the ref's back turned, David runs into the ring and starts stomping angrily on Mack. Trucker races in and starts trading punches with the WWE champ, and Mack himself delivers a vicious slam to damage the "Genius" even more! David exits the ring and Vince steps down when Mack gives him a fierce glare, but the distractions are enough to change the momentum briefly.
Tank catches Mack off-guard with a belly-to-back suplex, and he starts to rally back with power moves and painful punches. Mack finally reverses an Irish whip and sends the "Captain" into his corner, where he tags Trucker back in. Together, Trucker & Mack knock Tank down with a double-team shoulder block! Tank crawls to the corner to tag in David, and the WWE champ sprints into the ring... but runs into a shoulder block by the "Redneck"! Trucker dominates the woozy "Genius" even more, landing a powerbomb, a signature Trucker's Special hip splash and his signature Noggin' Knocker flying headbutt. Trucker goes for the pinfall but Tank dives in to break it up at the last second.
Vince had been continually distracting the ref all match long, and the official had enough of the WWE Chairman's actions. As a result... the referee ordered Mr. McMahon to exit the ringside area! Vince was stunned and demanded an explanation, bu the official refused to argue with him and sent him away. Vince snarled and walked away reluctantly, barking insults at the official the whole way. David was distraught as he watched his corporate ally leave, but his sadness turned to anger.
Mack & Trucker teamed up to deliver a gut kick to the WWE champ, but David decided to use his speed advantage to rally back. David delivered a variety of dropkicks to the #1 contender, knocking him down over and over. The running around tired him out, and the "Genius" tagged out to his partner. Tank ran in to try and keep the momentum, but Mack surprised him with his 3-Wheeler signature combo of suplexes! Mack follows up with a sidewalk slam and a belly-to-belly suplex before tagging out to the "Redneck".
Trucker uses Mack's rally well, landing his White Trash signature on the "Captain". When Tank staggers to his feet, Trucker nails him in the face with his Big Foot finishing kick... which busts the Hardcore champ open! David enters the ring in a furious fit of anger, throwing a flurry of wild punches at Trucker. Mack enters as well, and helps the "Redneck" fight off the WWE champ. The brawl spills outside while Tank recovers, but David can only fight so much against 2 guys. When Tank staggers to his feet, Trucker slides back in... and delivers another Big Foot finishing kick! Trucker goes for the pin and the referee counts 1... 2... AND TANK GETS A FOOT ON THE ROPE! The "Captain" barely kept the match alive, and Trucker is shocked that he couldn't put the match away!
Both exhausted legal men crawl to their corners, getting tags to Mack and David. The rivals trade blows for a bit, but the "Human Semi" counters a move with a huge German suplex! The move dazes the WWE champ for good, and Mack follows up with his 3-Wheeler signature. With the fans excited for a possible finish, Mack backs into the corner and sizes up his rival for a spear. When David rises off the mat, Mack crushes him with a Speeding Semi spear! Trucker prevents Tank from interfering and Mack gets the successful 1-2-3 count to win the match!
The crowd erupts into cheers, and Mack scores yet another clean win over the WWE Champion! Trucker & Mack celebrate happily, while a bloody Tank exits the area quickly. The show ends with the fan-favorite duo standing tall over the unconscious WWE champ!
WINNERS: Big Mutha Trucker & Mack Wheeler
Week 3
The third January episode of Monday Night Raw kicks off LIVE from the sunny shores of Miami, FL!!!
GM Office Segment
The show opens in the GM office backstage, where we see Raw GM Stephanie McMahon examining tonight's match card. She looks clearly confused and possibly perturbed. A few moments later, WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon walks in and greets his daughter. She doesn't reciprocate the gesture and asks him something directly.
Steph: "Hey, Dad... uhh... did you... make changes to the match card for Raw tonight?"
Mr. McMahon: "Ahh, I was hoping you would see that. Yes, I did make a few... improvements!"
Steph: "Improvements? I'm not seeing it that way. Mack Wheeler versus Parker & Coop in a Handicap match? Placing Big Mutha Trucker in Gravedigger's battle royal challenge? Dad, I'm sorry but... these don't seem like 'improvements' to me. They instead seem like punishments."
Vince scoffs at Stephanie's remark and takes the paper from her.
Mr. McMahon: "Punishments? No, no, no... I'm just... uhh... shaking things up a bit."
Steph's clearly not buying it, and shakes her head as her father smiles brightly. The Raw GM takes another glance at the proposed match list and points out one match in particular.
Steph: "What about this main event? David Degenerate against Anarchy?! Really, Dad? The WWE Champion gets to face his little 'helper' in the show closer."
Mr. McMahon: "I thought it would be a great final showing tonight! These Miami fans get to see their champion in live, in-ring action against that sparky 'Hellraiser'. What a match!"
Stephanie rolls her eyes as she listen to Vince tout the main event. Finally, she snatches the paper back from her father.
Steph: "Whatever, Dad. You're the boss... I guess. Just so you know... the fans tonight will HATE tonight's matches."
Vince chuckles and appears to disagree. Stephanie returns to her desk and gestures her father to leave, which he does with a gleeful expression. The "Billion-Dollar Princess" glances up once more, but shakes her head in disgust as the segment ends!
Steph: "Hey, Dad... uhh... did you... make changes to the match card for Raw tonight?"
Mr. McMahon: "Ahh, I was hoping you would see that. Yes, I did make a few... improvements!"
Steph: "Improvements? I'm not seeing it that way. Mack Wheeler versus Parker & Coop in a Handicap match? Placing Big Mutha Trucker in Gravedigger's battle royal challenge? Dad, I'm sorry but... these don't seem like 'improvements' to me. They instead seem like punishments."
Vince scoffs at Stephanie's remark and takes the paper from her.
Mr. McMahon: "Punishments? No, no, no... I'm just... uhh... shaking things up a bit."
Steph's clearly not buying it, and shakes her head as her father smiles brightly. The Raw GM takes another glance at the proposed match list and points out one match in particular.
Steph: "What about this main event? David Degenerate against Anarchy?! Really, Dad? The WWE Champion gets to face his little 'helper' in the show closer."
Mr. McMahon: "I thought it would be a great final showing tonight! These Miami fans get to see their champion in live, in-ring action against that sparky 'Hellraiser'. What a match!"
Stephanie rolls her eyes as she listen to Vince tout the main event. Finally, she snatches the paper back from her father.
Steph: "Whatever, Dad. You're the boss... I guess. Just so you know... the fans tonight will HATE tonight's matches."
Vince chuckles and appears to disagree. Stephanie returns to her desk and gestures her father to leave, which he does with a gleeful expression. The "Billion-Dollar Princess" glances up once more, but shakes her head in disgust as the segment ends!
Brittany Black vs. Sunny Silva
The first match of the night pits the Divas champ against the "Alabama Beauty"! Both rookies have been impressive in their first year in WWE, with Brittany winning Raw's female belt only 7 months into her debut while Sunny has picked up several big victories as of late. Tonight, they face off to open the match card!
Sunny enters first and appears very confident as "Sweet Home Alabama" plays over the loudspeakers. She dances and gestures happily to the crowd down the ramp... until Brittany attacks her from behind! The vicious blindside by the "Evil Diva" garners boos from the crowd, but Brittany focuses in on her opponent. Sunny staggers to her feet and Brittany quickly blasts her with a finishing Migrainer kick! Sunny slams face-first onto the floor after the back-of-the-head blow, but Brittany has more evil thoughts to use before the match has even officially begun! Brittany reaches under the ring... and pulls out a steel chair! The referee argues with her and demands that she enters the ring, but Brittany just smirks at him. Since the bell hasn't rung, the match technically isn't underway... so Brittany can't earn a DQ if she uses the weapon! Sure enough, Brittany walks over to a crawling Silva... and smacks the metal object right onto her foe's back! Sunny screeches in pain and rolls over, but the Divas champ delivers another shot to the gut! The referee is powerless to stop this assault, and continues to protest Brittany's despicable pre-match actions.
Finally, the champ rolls Sunny into the ring and the official calls for the bell, but has a few choice words for Brittany. The "Evil Diva" barks back at him, and continues to weaken her opponent. Brittany uses her wide array of kicks to hurt Sunny, including a nasty kick to the gut while Sunny is on all fours! Sunny tries to counter back, but several times Brittany reverses into an Abyss submission. Brittany tosses her foe into the corner ring post and also locks up Sunny's leg to deliver a neck snap maneuver under the bottom rope. It's an ugly scene with the champ in complete control!
The damage gets worse soon after, as Brittany lifts Sunny up onto the turnbuckle... and proceeds to dropkick her down to the floor! The "Alabama Beauty" collapses hard as she falls, but her angry opponent wastes no time in using the environment wisely. Brittany slams Sunny's head off the announce table and off the ring post before rolling her weakened foe back into the ring. Confident and cocky, Brittany takes a moment to taunt the disapproving crowd!
Brittany climbs back into the ring, and whips Sunny into the ropes. But in a fit of sudden strength... Silva counters with a nasty DDT! The crowd whoops it up for the move, and both ladies lay on the mat for several anxious moments. Sunny then goes on the offensive, trying to use every ounce of remaining energy to rally back. She gets in a few blows, but a counter by Brittany dazes Sunny. The "Evil Diva" locks in a submission hold for a bit, trying to get her opponent to tap out. But Sunny is resilient, and breaks out of the hold with a sharp knee to the champ's face! Sunny rallies again, this time getting in even more moves and surprising Brittany with her stamina.
But in the end, the Divas champ's early and pre-match attacks had worn Sunny down enough that even the best rally couldn't overcome. Sunny tried a running move, but Brittany countered into yet another Abyss submission! Sunny groaned loudly in pain but refused to tap out, which frustrated the champ enough to end the move early. To follow up, Brittany planted her with a Paralyzer Drop signature and then another Migrainer kick! The power moves were enough to knock Sunny out for good. Brittany went for the cover, and the referee counts 1-2-3 to give the champ the win!
WINNER: Brittany Black
Sunny enters first and appears very confident as "Sweet Home Alabama" plays over the loudspeakers. She dances and gestures happily to the crowd down the ramp... until Brittany attacks her from behind! The vicious blindside by the "Evil Diva" garners boos from the crowd, but Brittany focuses in on her opponent. Sunny staggers to her feet and Brittany quickly blasts her with a finishing Migrainer kick! Sunny slams face-first onto the floor after the back-of-the-head blow, but Brittany has more evil thoughts to use before the match has even officially begun! Brittany reaches under the ring... and pulls out a steel chair! The referee argues with her and demands that she enters the ring, but Brittany just smirks at him. Since the bell hasn't rung, the match technically isn't underway... so Brittany can't earn a DQ if she uses the weapon! Sure enough, Brittany walks over to a crawling Silva... and smacks the metal object right onto her foe's back! Sunny screeches in pain and rolls over, but the Divas champ delivers another shot to the gut! The referee is powerless to stop this assault, and continues to protest Brittany's despicable pre-match actions.
Finally, the champ rolls Sunny into the ring and the official calls for the bell, but has a few choice words for Brittany. The "Evil Diva" barks back at him, and continues to weaken her opponent. Brittany uses her wide array of kicks to hurt Sunny, including a nasty kick to the gut while Sunny is on all fours! Sunny tries to counter back, but several times Brittany reverses into an Abyss submission. Brittany tosses her foe into the corner ring post and also locks up Sunny's leg to deliver a neck snap maneuver under the bottom rope. It's an ugly scene with the champ in complete control!
The damage gets worse soon after, as Brittany lifts Sunny up onto the turnbuckle... and proceeds to dropkick her down to the floor! The "Alabama Beauty" collapses hard as she falls, but her angry opponent wastes no time in using the environment wisely. Brittany slams Sunny's head off the announce table and off the ring post before rolling her weakened foe back into the ring. Confident and cocky, Brittany takes a moment to taunt the disapproving crowd!
Brittany climbs back into the ring, and whips Sunny into the ropes. But in a fit of sudden strength... Silva counters with a nasty DDT! The crowd whoops it up for the move, and both ladies lay on the mat for several anxious moments. Sunny then goes on the offensive, trying to use every ounce of remaining energy to rally back. She gets in a few blows, but a counter by Brittany dazes Sunny. The "Evil Diva" locks in a submission hold for a bit, trying to get her opponent to tap out. But Sunny is resilient, and breaks out of the hold with a sharp knee to the champ's face! Sunny rallies again, this time getting in even more moves and surprising Brittany with her stamina.
But in the end, the Divas champ's early and pre-match attacks had worn Sunny down enough that even the best rally couldn't overcome. Sunny tried a running move, but Brittany countered into yet another Abyss submission! Sunny groaned loudly in pain but refused to tap out, which frustrated the champ enough to end the move early. To follow up, Brittany planted her with a Paralyzer Drop signature and then another Migrainer kick! The power moves were enough to knock Sunny out for good. Brittany went for the cover, and the referee counts 1-2-3 to give the champ the win!
WINNER: Brittany Black
Post-Match Segment
Moments after the win, Brittany is celebrating proudly with an arrogant smirk on her face when... Beth Phoenix's music hits! The "Glamazon" walks out onto the stage... carrying a ladder!!! Beth sets up the ladder as Brittany watches on in curiosity and annoyance, and then begins to climb to the top. Beth perches herself on the final step, and speaks directly to her rival.
Beth: "You know what, Brittany? I've been doing a lot of thinking. We agreed to a title rematch last week... but it just wasn't enough for me. You see... I've been completely stupid throughout this whole 'feud' with you. I was paranoid over losing my title, and instead of preparing to not lose it, I should have been preparing to win. And... it cost me! You beat me, albeit with a unwarranted pre-match attack... kinda similar to what happened tonight. And so I thought... what's to stop you from trying it again? Why would I agree to a simple title match with no stipulations... just to fall into a trap where you can't win in an honest fashion? So I thought... I've got to come up with a match that will... even the odds a bit. A match where it doesn't matter whether you attack early, attack in the middle or attack late. A match where all that matters is who can literally put their hands on the title first. A match where I can beat you SENSELESS and then stand 15 feet over your head and win back the title. A match where to be the champion... you literally have to outclimb, outlast and outsmart your opponent. I'm talking of course... about a Ladder match! So... what do you say, Brittany? Care to climb to new heights with me???"
Brittany scowls at her rival, but Beth just smiles back confidently. Without saying a word, Brittany tosses her title belt over her shoulder... and nods! The "Glamazon" and the "Evil Diva" will meet for the Divas Title at the Royal Rumble... in a Ladder match! The crowd cheers for the agreement, and the two rivals share an intense staredown as the show heads to a commercial!
Beth: "You know what, Brittany? I've been doing a lot of thinking. We agreed to a title rematch last week... but it just wasn't enough for me. You see... I've been completely stupid throughout this whole 'feud' with you. I was paranoid over losing my title, and instead of preparing to not lose it, I should have been preparing to win. And... it cost me! You beat me, albeit with a unwarranted pre-match attack... kinda similar to what happened tonight. And so I thought... what's to stop you from trying it again? Why would I agree to a simple title match with no stipulations... just to fall into a trap where you can't win in an honest fashion? So I thought... I've got to come up with a match that will... even the odds a bit. A match where it doesn't matter whether you attack early, attack in the middle or attack late. A match where all that matters is who can literally put their hands on the title first. A match where I can beat you SENSELESS and then stand 15 feet over your head and win back the title. A match where to be the champion... you literally have to outclimb, outlast and outsmart your opponent. I'm talking of course... about a Ladder match! So... what do you say, Brittany? Care to climb to new heights with me???"
Brittany scowls at her rival, but Beth just smiles back confidently. Without saying a word, Brittany tosses her title belt over her shoulder... and nods! The "Glamazon" and the "Evil Diva" will meet for the Divas Title at the Royal Rumble... in a Ladder match! The crowd cheers for the agreement, and the two rivals share an intense staredown as the show heads to a commercial!
Interview Segment
The show returns from a break and the cameras venture backstage to the interview area where Big Mutha Trucker is waiting alongside Justin Roberts. Justin receives his cue and begins the segment.
Justin: "Hello all, and welcome to another Monday Night Raw! Joining me tonight is none other than the "Resident Redneck" Big Mutha Trucker. Trucker, you are scheduled to participate in Gravedigger's battle royal challenge tonight. How do you feel about being put into this match?"
Trucker: "Justin, I'm ready for this challenge. I was a runner-up in the Royal Rumble 2 years ago, so I know my way around a battle royal. 'Digger talks a big game, but he's developed a history of choking when it counts the most. He can try to scare everyone by winning all these battle royal matches, but it's not going to matter much when there's THIRTY guys in the ring."
Justin: "Lately, you've seemed to developed a little feud with Hardcore champ Tank Blazer. You two have a long history, including being close allies and 2-time former Tag Team champs. What's going on between you and Tank?"
Trucker: "To be honest, Justin... I think Tank is jealous of me. He's always been jealous of me! The only reason I interfered after his Hardcore Title match with Corey Youngblood last month is because I didn't agree with him rubbing it in after winning with an unwarranted attack. That's bush league crap! He's been jealous of my success for a while. I won the U.S. Title. I had main event matches. I won the Hardcore Title FOUR times! That's the only reason he entered the Hardcore division in the first place. He's trying to copy everything I've done."
Suddenly, a new person enters the frame... a very angry Tank Blazer! The "Captain" strolls in, glaring at Trucker, with his Hardcore Title wrapped around his waist. Tank points a finger in his rival's face and speaks.
Tank: "You are making yourself out to be much bigger than you really are. I'm way better at competing in Hardcore matches than you ever were. I'm more aggressive and more resilient. I get the job done. You... you're just a has-been! In fact, to show everyone how much of a has-been you are, I'm joining the battle royal match tonight. When I eliminate you, I'll laugh and laugh as the crowd realizes how much of a phony you are."
Trucker: "A phony?! You're clearly the one who's fake around here. You've only held the Hardcore Title twice, and you've lost it only a month after winning it in the first place. The only reason you're still wearing it now is because Mack Wheeler became the #1 contender and moved on to bigger things. If he would have wanted a rematch, you likely would have lost. And Corey posed not a strong enough threat to you! So attacking him after the match was not even necessary. As for tonight, I'm glad I get to put my hands on you in that battle royal. You're going to be the one laughed at when I toss you over the top!"
The rivals glare at each other intensely and Justin steps back out of harm's way. An idea seems to spark in Trucker's head and he offers one more challenge.
Trucker: "And since you think I'm a Hardcore has-been, you can try to prove it next week. How about you put that title on the line against this 4-time champ and see if you can stop me from making it reign #5?"
Tank: "Oh... you're on, my friend! I'm going to relish in making you look foolish in the match you love the most. And when I win... I'm going to shove this title belt in your face to remind you who the REAL champ is!"
The "Captain" leans in close but Trucker doesn't flinch. Finally, Tank turns and walks off. The segment ends with a determined Trucker rubbing his fists in anticipation of a big fight tonight... and a Hardcore Title match next week!
Justin: "Hello all, and welcome to another Monday Night Raw! Joining me tonight is none other than the "Resident Redneck" Big Mutha Trucker. Trucker, you are scheduled to participate in Gravedigger's battle royal challenge tonight. How do you feel about being put into this match?"
Trucker: "Justin, I'm ready for this challenge. I was a runner-up in the Royal Rumble 2 years ago, so I know my way around a battle royal. 'Digger talks a big game, but he's developed a history of choking when it counts the most. He can try to scare everyone by winning all these battle royal matches, but it's not going to matter much when there's THIRTY guys in the ring."
Justin: "Lately, you've seemed to developed a little feud with Hardcore champ Tank Blazer. You two have a long history, including being close allies and 2-time former Tag Team champs. What's going on between you and Tank?"
Trucker: "To be honest, Justin... I think Tank is jealous of me. He's always been jealous of me! The only reason I interfered after his Hardcore Title match with Corey Youngblood last month is because I didn't agree with him rubbing it in after winning with an unwarranted attack. That's bush league crap! He's been jealous of my success for a while. I won the U.S. Title. I had main event matches. I won the Hardcore Title FOUR times! That's the only reason he entered the Hardcore division in the first place. He's trying to copy everything I've done."
Suddenly, a new person enters the frame... a very angry Tank Blazer! The "Captain" strolls in, glaring at Trucker, with his Hardcore Title wrapped around his waist. Tank points a finger in his rival's face and speaks.
Tank: "You are making yourself out to be much bigger than you really are. I'm way better at competing in Hardcore matches than you ever were. I'm more aggressive and more resilient. I get the job done. You... you're just a has-been! In fact, to show everyone how much of a has-been you are, I'm joining the battle royal match tonight. When I eliminate you, I'll laugh and laugh as the crowd realizes how much of a phony you are."
Trucker: "A phony?! You're clearly the one who's fake around here. You've only held the Hardcore Title twice, and you've lost it only a month after winning it in the first place. The only reason you're still wearing it now is because Mack Wheeler became the #1 contender and moved on to bigger things. If he would have wanted a rematch, you likely would have lost. And Corey posed not a strong enough threat to you! So attacking him after the match was not even necessary. As for tonight, I'm glad I get to put my hands on you in that battle royal. You're going to be the one laughed at when I toss you over the top!"
The rivals glare at each other intensely and Justin steps back out of harm's way. An idea seems to spark in Trucker's head and he offers one more challenge.
Trucker: "And since you think I'm a Hardcore has-been, you can try to prove it next week. How about you put that title on the line against this 4-time champ and see if you can stop me from making it reign #5?"
Tank: "Oh... you're on, my friend! I'm going to relish in making you look foolish in the match you love the most. And when I win... I'm going to shove this title belt in your face to remind you who the REAL champ is!"
The "Captain" leans in close but Trucker doesn't flinch. Finally, Tank turns and walks off. The segment ends with a determined Trucker rubbing his fists in anticipation of a big fight tonight... and a Hardcore Title match next week!
Handicap Match:
Mack Wheeler vs. Tommy Parker & Joey Cooper
The next match of the night is a 2-on-1 battle between the #1 contender for the WWE Title and the former Olympians! Parker & Coop have struggled for months, but have the numbers advantage over the "Human Semi". Mack has been a major thorn in David Degenerate's side for weeks, including 2 pinfall victories. This match seems like somewhat of a punishment for Mack beating David so soundly lately, as Mr. McMahon himself (and David's ally) scheduled this bout.
Mack earns a great cheer from the crowd on his way to the ring, while the Olympic duo also receive solid support as they sprint to the ring and perform their signature backflips off the turnbuckles. Parker & Coop talk strategy briefly, agreeing to let Joey start the match, while Mack remains focused and loosens up. The bell rings and this 1 vs. tag team battle gets underway!
Coop controls the first part of the match, surprising Mack with his quickness, and the "Human Semi" only manages to land a backbreaker. Desperate to change the momentum, Mack delivers a running shoulder block to send Joey tumbling out the ring. But when Wheeler ventures outside, Coop fights back and takes the momentum right back! Joey rolls his foe back into the ring, reverses a move with a hip toss and then tags his buddy Tommy into the match.
Mack becomes furious at his struggles so far, and gets more aggressive against the other Olympian. Some big punches stun Tommy, and Mack follows up with 2 suplexes. Then, the "Human Semi" delivers a powerslam off the turnbuckle and attempts a pin! The referee counts 1... 2... but Joey dives in to break it up! Mack continues his assault with a facebuster drop and another big punch, but Tommy starts to rally himself by using traditional wrestling maneuvers and a big hurricanrana. Tommy crawls over to tag Joey back in and keep the Olympians fresh!
Despite the new opponent in the ring, Mack continues to go on a rampage. He plants Joey with a bunch of German suplexes in quick succession, leading to him delivering his 3-Wheeler signature combo of suplexes! He knocks Tommy off the apron to possibly prevent him denying a pinfall... and then spears Joey with a Speeding Semi finisher! Mack tries for a pinfall...
... but suddenly, David Degenerate races down to the ring! The WWE Champion jumps onto the apron and catches the ref's attention and prevents him from counting the pin! The official orders David to get down, and Mack looks around in confusion. A moment later, Tommy slides back into the ring and breaks up the pinfall before even a single count could take place. Satisfied, David steps down off the apron and smirks at Mack, who becomes enraged when he realizes what happened.
But before Mack can deal with his rival's interference, Joey starts a little rally for the Olympic duo. He delivers an athletic arm toss off the ropes and then follows up with a standing moonsault. With Mack down, Joey eyes the turnbuckle and decides to go for a big move! "Fast and Furious" climbs up, and steadies himself as David claps for him at ringside. Joey leaps off for a flying body splash... but Mack gets his knees up to counter and Joey suffers a hard shot to the chest! Joey crawls over to his corner to tag in Tommy, but the "Up-and-Comer" has no one to fight...
... because Mack has slide outside the ring and started to brawl with the WWE champ! The "Human Semi" unleashes all his anger on the "Dangerous Genius" who doesn't seem to be fighting back. In the ring, Tommy looks at the ref in confusion but the official starts to count Mack out. Wheeler is oblivious to the match still going on, and just unloads on his rival with vicious punches, hard slams into the barricade and any power move he can think of. The crowd cheers for a bit, but then start to realize that Mack might lose by countout. Their cheers turn to commands, as they try to remind the "Human Semi" about the match going on.
Suddenly... the referee calls for the bell! Mack hears the bell and looks up, realizing that he had forgotten all about the handicap match in progress. The official awards the victory to Parker & Coop, who seem reluctantly pleased to earn the win. Mack puts his hands to his head in disbelief, and then turns back to his rival... who had already dashed up the ramp! The "Genius" looks at Mack and laughs hysterically, and Wheeler starts to realize that David wanted to incite a brawl so that he could lose on purpose! The realization makes Mack furious, and David quickly exits backstage. Mack seethes in extreme anger as the chaotic scene at ringside comes to an end!
WINNERS (by countout): Tommy Parker & Joey Cooper
Mack earns a great cheer from the crowd on his way to the ring, while the Olympic duo also receive solid support as they sprint to the ring and perform their signature backflips off the turnbuckles. Parker & Coop talk strategy briefly, agreeing to let Joey start the match, while Mack remains focused and loosens up. The bell rings and this 1 vs. tag team battle gets underway!
Coop controls the first part of the match, surprising Mack with his quickness, and the "Human Semi" only manages to land a backbreaker. Desperate to change the momentum, Mack delivers a running shoulder block to send Joey tumbling out the ring. But when Wheeler ventures outside, Coop fights back and takes the momentum right back! Joey rolls his foe back into the ring, reverses a move with a hip toss and then tags his buddy Tommy into the match.
Mack becomes furious at his struggles so far, and gets more aggressive against the other Olympian. Some big punches stun Tommy, and Mack follows up with 2 suplexes. Then, the "Human Semi" delivers a powerslam off the turnbuckle and attempts a pin! The referee counts 1... 2... but Joey dives in to break it up! Mack continues his assault with a facebuster drop and another big punch, but Tommy starts to rally himself by using traditional wrestling maneuvers and a big hurricanrana. Tommy crawls over to tag Joey back in and keep the Olympians fresh!
Despite the new opponent in the ring, Mack continues to go on a rampage. He plants Joey with a bunch of German suplexes in quick succession, leading to him delivering his 3-Wheeler signature combo of suplexes! He knocks Tommy off the apron to possibly prevent him denying a pinfall... and then spears Joey with a Speeding Semi finisher! Mack tries for a pinfall...
... but suddenly, David Degenerate races down to the ring! The WWE Champion jumps onto the apron and catches the ref's attention and prevents him from counting the pin! The official orders David to get down, and Mack looks around in confusion. A moment later, Tommy slides back into the ring and breaks up the pinfall before even a single count could take place. Satisfied, David steps down off the apron and smirks at Mack, who becomes enraged when he realizes what happened.
But before Mack can deal with his rival's interference, Joey starts a little rally for the Olympic duo. He delivers an athletic arm toss off the ropes and then follows up with a standing moonsault. With Mack down, Joey eyes the turnbuckle and decides to go for a big move! "Fast and Furious" climbs up, and steadies himself as David claps for him at ringside. Joey leaps off for a flying body splash... but Mack gets his knees up to counter and Joey suffers a hard shot to the chest! Joey crawls over to his corner to tag in Tommy, but the "Up-and-Comer" has no one to fight...
... because Mack has slide outside the ring and started to brawl with the WWE champ! The "Human Semi" unleashes all his anger on the "Dangerous Genius" who doesn't seem to be fighting back. In the ring, Tommy looks at the ref in confusion but the official starts to count Mack out. Wheeler is oblivious to the match still going on, and just unloads on his rival with vicious punches, hard slams into the barricade and any power move he can think of. The crowd cheers for a bit, but then start to realize that Mack might lose by countout. Their cheers turn to commands, as they try to remind the "Human Semi" about the match going on.
Suddenly... the referee calls for the bell! Mack hears the bell and looks up, realizing that he had forgotten all about the handicap match in progress. The official awards the victory to Parker & Coop, who seem reluctantly pleased to earn the win. Mack puts his hands to his head in disbelief, and then turns back to his rival... who had already dashed up the ramp! The "Genius" looks at Mack and laughs hysterically, and Wheeler starts to realize that David wanted to incite a brawl so that he could lose on purpose! The realization makes Mack furious, and David quickly exits backstage. Mack seethes in extreme anger as the chaotic scene at ringside comes to an end!
WINNERS (by countout): Tommy Parker & Joey Cooper
Vignette
The show comes back from commercials and again the viewers are shown a new but familiar vignette. In this clip, a large man is shown flexing his various muscles in close-ups. His face is not shown, but you can see the back of his head with long, wavy blonde hair. Every time a muscle is shown flexing, a sound of thunder rumbles. At the end, "SEE THE LIGHTNING..." flashes on screen to end the video.
4-Man Battle Royal:
Gravedigger vs. Big Mutha Trucker vs.
Tank Blazer vs. Shawn Midnight
Next on the match card is the expected battle royal challenge involving Gravedigger, the 3rd such bout this month. 'Digger has kept his vow on winning the first 2 challenges, but tonight's match is going to be the most difficult yet! The "Graveyard Monster" will have to face Big Mutha Trucker, who is a former Royal Rumble runner-up, Hardcore champ Tank Blazer and the strong Shawn Midnight! If 'Digger can survive this bout and be the last man standing, then he might be right about his Royal Rumble chances!
All 4 men make their own entrances, with Trucker being the only one to garner cheers from the Miami crowd. The bell rings and the over-the-top-rope battle gets underway! With all the strength filling the squared circle, it doesn't take long for the power moves to start being delivered. Each man lands a big move, and no one focuses on anybody in particular. 'Digger powerbombs Trucker and delivers a big boot to Shawn. Trucker scoop slams the "Monster" and gives a running shove to Tank. Shawn plants the "Captain" with a spinebuster before swinging Trucker around with a Long Island Loop. Tank reverses a Trucker move with a powerslam, and damages Gravedigger with a backbreaker. It's a wild, hard-hitting match to start an the crowd gets into it!
Finally, Trucker & Tank brawl while 'Digger & Shawn turn their attention towards each other. On opposite ends of the ring, Trucker gets Tank weakened by the ropes with Gravedigger punching Shawn's face in near the edge as well. Then, simultaneously... Trucker eliminates the Hardcore champ and 'Digger tosses out Midnight! The crowd cheers for the double elimination, and the two remaining competitors turn around and are surprised to make the same realization! In a matter of seconds, this hard-fought 4-man war just went to two!
'Digger and Trucker regain their composure and start a physical battle over the final elimination. Again, power moves rock the mat with both men landing impressive maneuvers on their opponent. Finally, Gravedigger gets Trucker weary near the ropes and attempts to clothesline him over, but Trucker snags the ropes by instinct and falls only to the apron. 'Digger puts his foot on Trucker's chest, trying to leverage him off the edge of the mat and onto the floor below. But somehow, Trucker maintains just enough balance and slides back into the ring under the bottom rope! The "Resident Redneck" barely kept himself alive!
Despite the save, Trucker is too weak to fight back and 'Digger becomes livid after failing to knock his last opponent out. When Trucker rises to his feet, Gravedigger punches him hard into the ropes... and then snatches him by the throat! In one swift motion, 'Digger lifts the "Redneck" up... and chokeslams him down to the floor below! The bell rings and the "Graveyard Monster" has again proven himself to be the last man standing!
Gravedigger raises his arms in celebration, while Trucker shakes his head in disappointment after coming close to an upset win. The "Redneck" can take solace in eliminating his rival Tank and looking ahead to a Hardcore Title match next week, but tonight 'Digger is the one standing tall!
WINNER: Gravedigger
All 4 men make their own entrances, with Trucker being the only one to garner cheers from the Miami crowd. The bell rings and the over-the-top-rope battle gets underway! With all the strength filling the squared circle, it doesn't take long for the power moves to start being delivered. Each man lands a big move, and no one focuses on anybody in particular. 'Digger powerbombs Trucker and delivers a big boot to Shawn. Trucker scoop slams the "Monster" and gives a running shove to Tank. Shawn plants the "Captain" with a spinebuster before swinging Trucker around with a Long Island Loop. Tank reverses a Trucker move with a powerslam, and damages Gravedigger with a backbreaker. It's a wild, hard-hitting match to start an the crowd gets into it!
Finally, Trucker & Tank brawl while 'Digger & Shawn turn their attention towards each other. On opposite ends of the ring, Trucker gets Tank weakened by the ropes with Gravedigger punching Shawn's face in near the edge as well. Then, simultaneously... Trucker eliminates the Hardcore champ and 'Digger tosses out Midnight! The crowd cheers for the double elimination, and the two remaining competitors turn around and are surprised to make the same realization! In a matter of seconds, this hard-fought 4-man war just went to two!
'Digger and Trucker regain their composure and start a physical battle over the final elimination. Again, power moves rock the mat with both men landing impressive maneuvers on their opponent. Finally, Gravedigger gets Trucker weary near the ropes and attempts to clothesline him over, but Trucker snags the ropes by instinct and falls only to the apron. 'Digger puts his foot on Trucker's chest, trying to leverage him off the edge of the mat and onto the floor below. But somehow, Trucker maintains just enough balance and slides back into the ring under the bottom rope! The "Resident Redneck" barely kept himself alive!
Despite the save, Trucker is too weak to fight back and 'Digger becomes livid after failing to knock his last opponent out. When Trucker rises to his feet, Gravedigger punches him hard into the ropes... and then snatches him by the throat! In one swift motion, 'Digger lifts the "Redneck" up... and chokeslams him down to the floor below! The bell rings and the "Graveyard Monster" has again proven himself to be the last man standing!
Gravedigger raises his arms in celebration, while Trucker shakes his head in disappointment after coming close to an upset win. The "Redneck" can take solace in eliminating his rival Tank and looking ahead to a Hardcore Title match next week, but tonight 'Digger is the one standing tall!
WINNER: Gravedigger
Backstage Segment
After the battle royal post-match interactions end, the cameras quickly transition backstage. WWE champ David Degenerate is walking down the hall, looking for someone. Finally, he seems to spot the person he needs. The camera pans back to see him approach... Anarchy! The "Dangerous Genius" is supposed to fight Anarchy in the main event based on a match scheduled by David's ally Mr. McMahon. Fans have been very angry towards both of them since Anarchy interfered to help David retain his title at last month's PPV. There hasn't been any interaction between them, so many have wondered... did Anarchy perform the shocking act on his own volition, or is there a secret alliance forming? David walks up and taps Anarchy on the shoulder.
David: "Hey, man! What's going on?"
Anarchy: "Ugh... what do you want? I'm a little busy. Trying to get ready for our match later."
David: "Ahh... cool, cool. So anyway, I thought I'd swing by and just... thank you for your help. At last month's TLC pay-per-view. Helping me win the match. To keep the WWE Title."
Anarchy stops throwing shadow punches and stretching and turns to face David. He has a confused scowl on his face.
Anarchy: "Help you? Naw, I wasn't helping you. I was only doing it to hurt Mack. I had to get my payback. It didn't matter who was the champion. If it was Carson Pain, I would've done the same thing."
David: "Ohh... uhh... okay. Well anyway... so we got a match tonight. I've been itching for a victory lately. Do you plan on making me look good tonight?"
Anarchy: "You? Make YOU look good? Man... I don't care about you. I don't give a rat's ass about you or that stupid title you're holding. I'll beat you 1-2-3 in that ring tonight if I have to."
David's cheerful demeanor quickly becomes an angry glare. He steps closer and gets in Anarchy's face. The "Little Hellraiser" doesn't back down and meets the WWE champ's eyes.
David: "Listen here, you stupid idiot. I'm the WWE Champion, and what I say goes. I'm going out there to win tonight, not lose to some pea-brained imbecile. You can fight hard all you want, but that's just going to make it more difficult for you."
David glares intensely, but Anarchy suddenly breaks into a little smirk. He chuckles a bit and rubs his chin before responding.
Anarchy: "Difficult, you say? Hmm... that's just the way I like it!"
Anarchy gives David a light shove and walks off towards the entrance curtains. David takes offense to the gesture and becomes very angry. You can essentially see the smoke coming out of the champ's ears as the show heads to commercial!
David: "Hey, man! What's going on?"
Anarchy: "Ugh... what do you want? I'm a little busy. Trying to get ready for our match later."
David: "Ahh... cool, cool. So anyway, I thought I'd swing by and just... thank you for your help. At last month's TLC pay-per-view. Helping me win the match. To keep the WWE Title."
Anarchy stops throwing shadow punches and stretching and turns to face David. He has a confused scowl on his face.
Anarchy: "Help you? Naw, I wasn't helping you. I was only doing it to hurt Mack. I had to get my payback. It didn't matter who was the champion. If it was Carson Pain, I would've done the same thing."
David: "Ohh... uhh... okay. Well anyway... so we got a match tonight. I've been itching for a victory lately. Do you plan on making me look good tonight?"
Anarchy: "You? Make YOU look good? Man... I don't care about you. I don't give a rat's ass about you or that stupid title you're holding. I'll beat you 1-2-3 in that ring tonight if I have to."
David's cheerful demeanor quickly becomes an angry glare. He steps closer and gets in Anarchy's face. The "Little Hellraiser" doesn't back down and meets the WWE champ's eyes.
David: "Listen here, you stupid idiot. I'm the WWE Champion, and what I say goes. I'm going out there to win tonight, not lose to some pea-brained imbecile. You can fight hard all you want, but that's just going to make it more difficult for you."
David glares intensely, but Anarchy suddenly breaks into a little smirk. He chuckles a bit and rubs his chin before responding.
Anarchy: "Difficult, you say? Hmm... that's just the way I like it!"
Anarchy gives David a light shove and walks off towards the entrance curtains. David takes offense to the gesture and becomes very angry. You can essentially see the smoke coming out of the champ's ears as the show heads to commercial!
Backstage Segment
Moments before the main event, a video clip is shown of an incident that occurred during the final commercial break. Brett Diamond is seen walking down the hall, when out of nowhere... Renegade smashes him in the head with the U.S. Title belt! The "Party Animal" tosses his title aside and initiates a brutal backstage brawl, throwing wild punches and using any weapon nearby. The "Professional" manages to fight back, and delivers a few shots of his own onto his rival. It's a crazy, chaotic scene for several minutes and the backstage area becomes trashed. Finally, Lee Money and the backstage crew run in to break it up! Lee stands in-between the brawling rivals and the crew members physically separate them. Frustrated, Renegade lets out an angry growl and picks up his title belt before walking away. Brett breathes deeply but glares intensely at his foe, trying to calm his immense anger. The segment ends with a close-up of Brett's fierce scowl!
MAIN EVENT:
David Degenerate (w/ Mr. McMahon) vs. Anarchy
The final match of the night will feature the WWE Champion and the man that helped him retain the title at last month's PPV! At the Tables, Ladders & Chairs event a few weeks ago, Mack Wheeler seemed poised to unsnap the title from the hook when Anarchy interfered, climbing the ladder and pulling Mack off to smash through a table below. The "Little Hellraiser" then awakened David and allowed him to climb the ladder to get the title. Anarchy's interference was based on a small rivalry he and Mack had after the "Human Semi" was drafted over to Raw, as he vowed to ruin a future opportunity for Mack. David tried to show his appreciation earlier tonight, but was rebuffed by a confident Anarchy. So, despite this match seeming to be an easy showcase for the corporate-picked champ... it might end up being the match of the night!
David enters first with Mr. McMahon alongside, and the Miami crowd loudly voices their anger with the arrogant "Genius". Soon after, Anarchy's music hits and he gets a mixed reaction from the fans. Many of them are still angry over his actions at the last PPV, while many want to see him upset David tonight! The two men enter the ring and have a little staredown to start the match off, and the bell rings to signal the official opening!
David lands a suplex right away, going into a pinning combination off of it to try for a quick win. Anarchy kicks out at 2, which infuriates the already-angry champ. David then unleashes wild punches and kicks, but forgets that Anarchy's specialty is brawling! The "Little Hellraiser" fights back, stunning the champ with a few stiff shots. Out of desperation, David breaks the trend with a reversal dropkick. David tries to take a moment to gather himself, but when he turns back... Anarchy nails him with a spinning kick to the chin! Mr. McMahon barks at his hand-picked champion to stay focused, and David receives the message.
After knocking Anarchy down, David scales the turnbuckle and waits for his foe to rise up. When his opponent staggers to his feet, David leaps off for a flying dropkick... but Anarchy reverses and both men crash to the mat! They lay down for a while, and the crowd whoops it up for the impressive fight Anarchy is giving the cocky WWE champ! After rising off the mat, they trade blows again. David delivers a dropkick off the turnbuckle after tossing Anarchy out of the corner, while Anarchy counters with a runnin bulldog. David then whips Anarchy into the ropes... and spears him outside to go crashing into the barricade!
David exits the ring and receives a quick pep talk from his corporate ally. David starts delivering some vicious kicks, including a nasty one to the back and two arrogant stomps to the face. But again, Anarchy rallies back and lays David on the edge of the apron... where he delivers a sharp elbow to the head! David rolls into the ring in pain, but the "Little Hellraiser" is ready for more. In the ring, Anarchy lands a dropkick and punches the champ hard in the face. David becomes more and more angrier, and he counters with a big suplex. He scales the turnbuckle again, leaps off... and drives his elbow deep into Anarchy's gut!
The "Genius" feels more confident as his opponent writhes in pain, and David's arrogance gets him in trouble. David straddles Anarchy and stands over him, taunting him in his face. David talks a lot of trash as Anarchy grimaces, and goes to grab his opponent by the head. Suddenly... Anarchy pokes him in the eyes! The champ staggers back and Anarchy quickly gets to his feet. David is blinded momentarily, and Anarchy takes advantage... by punching him completely out of the ring! David tumbles to the floor right in front of a stunned Mr. McMahon, and Anarchy is now the one taunting in the ring!
The WWE champ is so enraged he can barely think, and he re-enters the ring quickly to try and put this match away. After knocking Anarchy down, he delivers a signature Dirty Kick... and locks in a signature Geniusubmission hold! Anarchy groans in pain as David applies the pressure, and Mr. McMahon cheers for his ally. But despite the pain, Anarchy pushes himself off the mat, wriggles free just enough and kicks out of the hold before tapping out! David rolls into the ropes, shocked that his foe was able to break out of his favorite submission! David responds by delivering a hip toss off the ropes and another vicious kick to the back, before again taunting his resilient foe. Anarchy again counters, and delivers a shuddering back rake to David's skin.
Anarchy may have fought tough, but it proves to be not enough for an upset. After catching the "Little Hellraiser" with his signature Dangerous DDT, David waits to finish him off. Anarchy staggers up and the WWE champ plants him down with a painful Genius Bomb and going right into a pin from the move's finish. The referee counts the 1-2-3 and David finally picks up the win that turned out to be more difficult for him than expected!
After the match, David barely celebrates as he seems focused on continuing to taunt his defeated opponent. David gets in Anarchy's face, trash-talking and slapping him hard. But suddenly... Mack's music hits! Mack Wheeler sprints down to the ring to prevent anything more, and the WWE champ dashes away quickly to avoid a physical confrontation! Mr. McMahon grabs the WWE Title, hands it to his ally and the two of them head up the ramp. They continue to glance back at Mack, who searches around the empty ring and finally spots his rival running away. The "Human Semi" slides out of the ring and gives a brief chase, but stops on the ramp as he realizes how far away they've gotten. The camera zooms in and focuses on Mack's angry, frustrated expression as the show comes to a close!
WINNER: David Degenerate
David enters first with Mr. McMahon alongside, and the Miami crowd loudly voices their anger with the arrogant "Genius". Soon after, Anarchy's music hits and he gets a mixed reaction from the fans. Many of them are still angry over his actions at the last PPV, while many want to see him upset David tonight! The two men enter the ring and have a little staredown to start the match off, and the bell rings to signal the official opening!
David lands a suplex right away, going into a pinning combination off of it to try for a quick win. Anarchy kicks out at 2, which infuriates the already-angry champ. David then unleashes wild punches and kicks, but forgets that Anarchy's specialty is brawling! The "Little Hellraiser" fights back, stunning the champ with a few stiff shots. Out of desperation, David breaks the trend with a reversal dropkick. David tries to take a moment to gather himself, but when he turns back... Anarchy nails him with a spinning kick to the chin! Mr. McMahon barks at his hand-picked champion to stay focused, and David receives the message.
After knocking Anarchy down, David scales the turnbuckle and waits for his foe to rise up. When his opponent staggers to his feet, David leaps off for a flying dropkick... but Anarchy reverses and both men crash to the mat! They lay down for a while, and the crowd whoops it up for the impressive fight Anarchy is giving the cocky WWE champ! After rising off the mat, they trade blows again. David delivers a dropkick off the turnbuckle after tossing Anarchy out of the corner, while Anarchy counters with a runnin bulldog. David then whips Anarchy into the ropes... and spears him outside to go crashing into the barricade!
David exits the ring and receives a quick pep talk from his corporate ally. David starts delivering some vicious kicks, including a nasty one to the back and two arrogant stomps to the face. But again, Anarchy rallies back and lays David on the edge of the apron... where he delivers a sharp elbow to the head! David rolls into the ring in pain, but the "Little Hellraiser" is ready for more. In the ring, Anarchy lands a dropkick and punches the champ hard in the face. David becomes more and more angrier, and he counters with a big suplex. He scales the turnbuckle again, leaps off... and drives his elbow deep into Anarchy's gut!
The "Genius" feels more confident as his opponent writhes in pain, and David's arrogance gets him in trouble. David straddles Anarchy and stands over him, taunting him in his face. David talks a lot of trash as Anarchy grimaces, and goes to grab his opponent by the head. Suddenly... Anarchy pokes him in the eyes! The champ staggers back and Anarchy quickly gets to his feet. David is blinded momentarily, and Anarchy takes advantage... by punching him completely out of the ring! David tumbles to the floor right in front of a stunned Mr. McMahon, and Anarchy is now the one taunting in the ring!
The WWE champ is so enraged he can barely think, and he re-enters the ring quickly to try and put this match away. After knocking Anarchy down, he delivers a signature Dirty Kick... and locks in a signature Geniusubmission hold! Anarchy groans in pain as David applies the pressure, and Mr. McMahon cheers for his ally. But despite the pain, Anarchy pushes himself off the mat, wriggles free just enough and kicks out of the hold before tapping out! David rolls into the ropes, shocked that his foe was able to break out of his favorite submission! David responds by delivering a hip toss off the ropes and another vicious kick to the back, before again taunting his resilient foe. Anarchy again counters, and delivers a shuddering back rake to David's skin.
Anarchy may have fought tough, but it proves to be not enough for an upset. After catching the "Little Hellraiser" with his signature Dangerous DDT, David waits to finish him off. Anarchy staggers up and the WWE champ plants him down with a painful Genius Bomb and going right into a pin from the move's finish. The referee counts the 1-2-3 and David finally picks up the win that turned out to be more difficult for him than expected!
After the match, David barely celebrates as he seems focused on continuing to taunt his defeated opponent. David gets in Anarchy's face, trash-talking and slapping him hard. But suddenly... Mack's music hits! Mack Wheeler sprints down to the ring to prevent anything more, and the WWE champ dashes away quickly to avoid a physical confrontation! Mr. McMahon grabs the WWE Title, hands it to his ally and the two of them head up the ramp. They continue to glance back at Mack, who searches around the empty ring and finally spots his rival running away. The "Human Semi" slides out of the ring and gives a brief chase, but stops on the ramp as he realizes how far away they've gotten. The camera zooms in and focuses on Mack's angry, frustrated expression as the show comes to a close!
WINNER: David Degenerate
Week 4
Just days away from the Royal Rumble, another LIVE episode of Monday Night Raw kicks off from Memphis, TN!!!
Commentator Segment
The show opens with Michael Cole and Jerry "The King" Lawler outlining the expected parts of tonight's episode, including a reminder of the Hardcore Title bout between champ Tank Blazer and Big Mutha Trucker. But Michael and Jerry also announce the show's closing segment... a WWE Title Contract Signing! Mack Wheeler and David Degenerate are expected to put their names on the dotted line for this Sunday's 3 Stages of Hell match between them... but if the history of contract signings holds true, then we might be in for an exciting end to the show!
Brett Diamond (w/ Beth Phoenix) & Lee Money vs.
Renegade & Anarchy (w/ Brittany Black)
The first match of the night involves the members of 2 separate title matches scheduled for this Sunday! Brett Diamond, who is set to face U.S. champ Renegade in a title rematch, teams up with Lee Money against the "Party Animal" and Anarchy, with the Divas Title rivals at ringside to support opposing teams. Beth Phoenix is also getting a title rematch against champ Brittany Black, but the Divas belt will be hanging above the ring in a dangerous Ladder match. Last week on Raw, Brett and Renegade brawled backstage and needed to be separated by "Cash" and various members of the backstage crew. This tag match should be an interesting battle to determine who has momentum heading into the Royal Rumble!
Brett, with Beth joining him, and Lee make separate entrances for the show-opening bout, getting big cheers from the Memphis crowd. Next, Renegade comes out to angry jeers and the "Little Hellraiser" also makes an unwelcome trek to the ring. Finally, Brittany Black strolls to ringside, smirking arrogantly towards the "Glamazon" and claps in support of her team. The bell rings, and the U.S. Title rivals will start the match!
Brett dominates his erratic rival early on, hitting an arm toss off the turnbuckle and 2 elbow drops among other maneuvers. The "Professional" tosses the champ into the corner, tags in Lee and together they perform a double-team kick! Lee taunts the crowd... but suddenly, Renegade kips up to his feet! "Cash" turns unaware of his rejuvenated foe... and Renegade blasts him with a Kick-olution finishing kick to the chin! Lee collapses to the mat, and the U.S. champ tries for the cover! Brett was also taunting the crowd, and doesn't notice Renegade hit his partner with the finisher. Finally, Beth alerts him and Brett races into the ring... and barely dives in time to stop the pin! Renegade is disappointed that his surprise shot didn't work, and tags out to Anarchy in frustration.
Lee smacks the mat angrily, upset that he got too overconfident. He takes out his anger on Anarchy, hitting a fallaway slam and following up with his signature Cash Drop! He tosses the "Little Hellraiser" into the corner, lifts him up... and plants him down with an impressive Paycheck DDT off the top! "Cash" goes for the cover, but he only reaches a count of 2 before Renegade ends the attempt. Anarchy grabs Lee and tosses him into his own corner, tagging in Renegade and they slam "Cash" down with a double hip toss. Renegade tries to keep the momentum going, but Lee rallies back with a variety of kicks. In a big move, Lee leaps up and hits the "Party Animal" with a bicycle kick... which sends the champ tumbling out of the ring!
Outside the ring, Lee and Renegade battle for a bit before returning to the ring. Back inside the squared circle, both men trade moves back and forth, evening up this matchup. Renegade knocks Lee down and tags Anarchy back in, but before he can attack Lee, "Cash" slides out of the ring to catch his breath! Anarchy gets angry from the sneaky escape and decides to turn his attention to the other partner. The "Little Hellraiser" races over... and clotheslines Brett hard off the apron! Lee notices the dirty move and slides back in, but Anarchy is ready for him. He dominates "Cash" for a bit, landing a bunch of quick, athletic moves but Lee ends the run with a big reversal kick.
Lee crawls to his corner where Brett excitedly waits, and gets the necessary tag to re-enter this battle! The "Professional" rattles his foe with a nasty kick and follows up with a suplex pinning combo... but the Divas champ leaps up onto the apron to distract the ref! Brett ends the pinfall attempt out of frustration but continues to damage his opponent, landing a flying elbow and then his signature Diamond's Eye Elbow. When Anarchy staggers to his feet, Brett knees him in the gut and drops him with his Professional Grade finisher! Sensing the chance at victory, Lee races across the ring and clotheslines the U.S. champ off the apron! Brett goes for the cover to secure the win... but again, Brittany jumps onto the apron and pulls the referee's attention away! The "Evil Diva" argues with the official, and Renegade slithers past Lee to slide back in and break up the pin.
Brittany seems satisfied with her actions... but Beth approaches quickly and goes on the attack! The "Glamazon" initiates a brawl with her rival, and the ladies fight outside the ring while the match continues! Their brawl spills into the crowd and eventually out of sight, leaving the men to fight themselves without support. Brett clotheslines Renegade down to the floor again, and sets up Anarchy to slam him down with an impressive super back suplex! Brett rolls over to the ring to tag in Lee in hopes of letting his fresher partner do some work... but Anarchy crawls to his own corner to give a hot tag to the U.S. champ! Renegade punches Lee, shoves Brett off the apron and blasts "Cash" with another Kick-olution! The "Party Animal" goes for the pin, and the referee counts 1... 2... but Brett dives in to break it up just in time! Renegade wildly smacks the mat, upset that his well-timed moves weren't enough to score the win.
The erratic champ tries to whip Lee into the ropes, but a desperate "Cash" counters with a DDT! Both men are down for a bit, but finally Lee manages to reach his corner to tag in the "Professional". Brett meets a staggering Renegade, lifting him up to deliver a signature Samoan Drop! Knowing that the "Little Hellraiser" might jump in, Brett takes the initiative and knocks him off the apron. With Anarchy unable to cause problems, Brett quickly locks the champ in his signature Lookin' Good Lock submission! The U.S. champ groans in pain, while Lee prevents Anarchy from stopping the hold. With no ropes to reach, no help available and no more energy left, Renegade taps out to give Brett the win!
Brett & Lee celebrate proudly while a dejected Renegade rolls out of the ring disappointed. He snatches his U.S. Title belt and walks off, not stopping to look back at his victorious rivals. Could this be a preview for Sunday's U.S. Title bout???
WINNERS: Brett Diamond & Lee Money
Brett, with Beth joining him, and Lee make separate entrances for the show-opening bout, getting big cheers from the Memphis crowd. Next, Renegade comes out to angry jeers and the "Little Hellraiser" also makes an unwelcome trek to the ring. Finally, Brittany Black strolls to ringside, smirking arrogantly towards the "Glamazon" and claps in support of her team. The bell rings, and the U.S. Title rivals will start the match!
Brett dominates his erratic rival early on, hitting an arm toss off the turnbuckle and 2 elbow drops among other maneuvers. The "Professional" tosses the champ into the corner, tags in Lee and together they perform a double-team kick! Lee taunts the crowd... but suddenly, Renegade kips up to his feet! "Cash" turns unaware of his rejuvenated foe... and Renegade blasts him with a Kick-olution finishing kick to the chin! Lee collapses to the mat, and the U.S. champ tries for the cover! Brett was also taunting the crowd, and doesn't notice Renegade hit his partner with the finisher. Finally, Beth alerts him and Brett races into the ring... and barely dives in time to stop the pin! Renegade is disappointed that his surprise shot didn't work, and tags out to Anarchy in frustration.
Lee smacks the mat angrily, upset that he got too overconfident. He takes out his anger on Anarchy, hitting a fallaway slam and following up with his signature Cash Drop! He tosses the "Little Hellraiser" into the corner, lifts him up... and plants him down with an impressive Paycheck DDT off the top! "Cash" goes for the cover, but he only reaches a count of 2 before Renegade ends the attempt. Anarchy grabs Lee and tosses him into his own corner, tagging in Renegade and they slam "Cash" down with a double hip toss. Renegade tries to keep the momentum going, but Lee rallies back with a variety of kicks. In a big move, Lee leaps up and hits the "Party Animal" with a bicycle kick... which sends the champ tumbling out of the ring!
Outside the ring, Lee and Renegade battle for a bit before returning to the ring. Back inside the squared circle, both men trade moves back and forth, evening up this matchup. Renegade knocks Lee down and tags Anarchy back in, but before he can attack Lee, "Cash" slides out of the ring to catch his breath! Anarchy gets angry from the sneaky escape and decides to turn his attention to the other partner. The "Little Hellraiser" races over... and clotheslines Brett hard off the apron! Lee notices the dirty move and slides back in, but Anarchy is ready for him. He dominates "Cash" for a bit, landing a bunch of quick, athletic moves but Lee ends the run with a big reversal kick.
Lee crawls to his corner where Brett excitedly waits, and gets the necessary tag to re-enter this battle! The "Professional" rattles his foe with a nasty kick and follows up with a suplex pinning combo... but the Divas champ leaps up onto the apron to distract the ref! Brett ends the pinfall attempt out of frustration but continues to damage his opponent, landing a flying elbow and then his signature Diamond's Eye Elbow. When Anarchy staggers to his feet, Brett knees him in the gut and drops him with his Professional Grade finisher! Sensing the chance at victory, Lee races across the ring and clotheslines the U.S. champ off the apron! Brett goes for the cover to secure the win... but again, Brittany jumps onto the apron and pulls the referee's attention away! The "Evil Diva" argues with the official, and Renegade slithers past Lee to slide back in and break up the pin.
Brittany seems satisfied with her actions... but Beth approaches quickly and goes on the attack! The "Glamazon" initiates a brawl with her rival, and the ladies fight outside the ring while the match continues! Their brawl spills into the crowd and eventually out of sight, leaving the men to fight themselves without support. Brett clotheslines Renegade down to the floor again, and sets up Anarchy to slam him down with an impressive super back suplex! Brett rolls over to the ring to tag in Lee in hopes of letting his fresher partner do some work... but Anarchy crawls to his own corner to give a hot tag to the U.S. champ! Renegade punches Lee, shoves Brett off the apron and blasts "Cash" with another Kick-olution! The "Party Animal" goes for the pin, and the referee counts 1... 2... but Brett dives in to break it up just in time! Renegade wildly smacks the mat, upset that his well-timed moves weren't enough to score the win.
The erratic champ tries to whip Lee into the ropes, but a desperate "Cash" counters with a DDT! Both men are down for a bit, but finally Lee manages to reach his corner to tag in the "Professional". Brett meets a staggering Renegade, lifting him up to deliver a signature Samoan Drop! Knowing that the "Little Hellraiser" might jump in, Brett takes the initiative and knocks him off the apron. With Anarchy unable to cause problems, Brett quickly locks the champ in his signature Lookin' Good Lock submission! The U.S. champ groans in pain, while Lee prevents Anarchy from stopping the hold. With no ropes to reach, no help available and no more energy left, Renegade taps out to give Brett the win!
Brett & Lee celebrate proudly while a dejected Renegade rolls out of the ring disappointed. He snatches his U.S. Title belt and walks off, not stopping to look back at his victorious rivals. Could this be a preview for Sunday's U.S. Title bout???
WINNERS: Brett Diamond & Lee Money
GM Office Segment
The cameras transition backstage to the GM office, where Raw GM Stephanie McMahon is reviewing the WWE Title contract that is supposed to be signed later. He flips through and scans some pages with her finger, either reading quickly or looking for something in particular. A moment later, someone enters the room and she looks up in surprise. The camera pans back to reveal... Gravedigger! The "Graveyard Monster" stands tall and stares expressionless at the Raw GM from behind his mask, breathing deeply. Stephanie stands up and welcomes him.
Steph: "Hello Gravedigger. What can I do for you?"
Gravedigger: "I'd like you to explain something. I was looking at the match card for tonight. In my final battle royal challenge, I have to face two Smackdown competitors... Rebel Ford and Guy Justice... but the 3rd spot isn't listed. It just simply says 'Mystery'. What does that mean?"
Steph: "Well 'Digger... someone approached me about entering your final challenge tonight... but they wished to keep their identity a secret."
Gravedigger: "A... secret?"
Steph: "Yes. They told me they wanted to wait to reveal themselves just before the match."
Gravedigger: "My battle royal challenges are OPEN challenges, not MYSTERY challenges. I deserve to know all who plan to enter."
Steph: "Well, my friend... that's also not going to happen during Sunday's Royal Rumble match either. But as for tonight... just think of it as a... surprise!"
Stephanie smiles and chuckles softly while Gravedigger thinks. He doesn't laugh with her, and the uncomfortable feeling makes her regain her composure. Finally, 'Digger leans in close to respond.
Gravedigger: "I don't LIKE surprises..."
Stephanie backs up a bit as his large, angry presence towers over her. Finally, the "Monster" leaves and Stephanie relaxes a bit. The Raw GM shakes her head and smiles again as the segment ends!
Steph: "Hello Gravedigger. What can I do for you?"
Gravedigger: "I'd like you to explain something. I was looking at the match card for tonight. In my final battle royal challenge, I have to face two Smackdown competitors... Rebel Ford and Guy Justice... but the 3rd spot isn't listed. It just simply says 'Mystery'. What does that mean?"
Steph: "Well 'Digger... someone approached me about entering your final challenge tonight... but they wished to keep their identity a secret."
Gravedigger: "A... secret?"
Steph: "Yes. They told me they wanted to wait to reveal themselves just before the match."
Gravedigger: "My battle royal challenges are OPEN challenges, not MYSTERY challenges. I deserve to know all who plan to enter."
Steph: "Well, my friend... that's also not going to happen during Sunday's Royal Rumble match either. But as for tonight... just think of it as a... surprise!"
Stephanie smiles and chuckles softly while Gravedigger thinks. He doesn't laugh with her, and the uncomfortable feeling makes her regain her composure. Finally, 'Digger leans in close to respond.
Gravedigger: "I don't LIKE surprises..."
Stephanie backs up a bit as his large, angry presence towers over her. Finally, the "Monster" leaves and Stephanie relaxes a bit. The Raw GM shakes her head and smiles again as the segment ends!
Women's Battle Royal:
Sunny Silva vs. Maryse vs. Melina vs. Nikki Bella
Next up on the card after a quick commercial break is a 4-way over-the-top-rope battle between some of Raw's female competitors! With the 30-man Royal Rumble match less than a week away, the ladies of Raw will give the fans a little woman-only preview. Nikki Bella enters first sans her sister Brie, looking to score a big win. Next, the Hollywood starlet makes her entrance and struts down, hoping to give herself a little momentum after a long losing streak. Maryse comes out next, drawing a lot of boos from the Memphis crowd. Finally, Sunny's theme plays and the crowd welcomes the "Alabama Beauty" warmly! Sunny walks down happily, while Maryse scoffs angrily as she glares at her rival.
But suddenly... Brittany Black attacks Sunny from behind! The Divas champ, set for a Ladder match against Beth Phoenix at Sunday's PPV, clotheslines Silva to the back of her head and then follows up by slamming her head off the steel steps! Brittany rolls the weakened "Alabama Beauty" into the ring, right at her ally Maryse's feet! The stunned referee has no choice but to sound the bell and begin this match in a controversial way.
Maryse tries to use Brittany's attack to her advantage, while the Divas champ observes close by. Maryse tries to eliminate Sunny quickly while Melina and Nikki trade blows on the opposite side of the ring. Unfortunately, Sunny has just enough energy to battle out of Maryse's elimination attempt, drawing a disappointed groan from both Maryse and Brittany. But then... Beth Phoenix's music hits! The "Glamazon" runs out as Brittany turns around in shock, unprepared for her rival to face her now. The Divas champ escapes through the crowd, and Beth gives chase. Both ladies are out of sight after a few seconds, and the focus returns to the ring!
All 4 competitors land impressive moves as the match really starts to even up. Melina struggles against Sunny and gets knocked into the ropes. The "Alabama Beauty" tries to shove her over, but the Hollywood starlet proves to be a tougher challenge than expected. But surprisingly, Maryse hops over and starts to assist her rival! Unable to battle out of the double-team, Melina gets tossed over the top rope for the match's first elimination. Melina collapses to the floor, while Sunny and Maryse look at each other in surprise that they actually worked together.
Sunny turns her attention towards Nikki... but Maryse punches her in the back of the head! The shot dazes Sunny, and Maryse starts to shove her on the ropes. Sensing a chance to knock someone else out of the match, Nikki steps over and starts to help Maryse! Sunny struggles to stay alive, but the 2 ladies prove to be too strong for her to overcome. A moment later, the "Alabama Beauty" loses her balance and tumbles over the top! The attack by Brittany and the double-team move have knocked the rookie out of the bout!
Down to Maryse and Nikki, the French-Canadian beauty takes control and looks impressive doing so. In the end, Maryse shoves Nikki against the ropes. And with one massive dropkick... she sends Nikki over the top for the final elimination! Maryse celebrates proudly while the fans jeer her loudly!
WINNER: Maryse
But suddenly... Brittany Black attacks Sunny from behind! The Divas champ, set for a Ladder match against Beth Phoenix at Sunday's PPV, clotheslines Silva to the back of her head and then follows up by slamming her head off the steel steps! Brittany rolls the weakened "Alabama Beauty" into the ring, right at her ally Maryse's feet! The stunned referee has no choice but to sound the bell and begin this match in a controversial way.
Maryse tries to use Brittany's attack to her advantage, while the Divas champ observes close by. Maryse tries to eliminate Sunny quickly while Melina and Nikki trade blows on the opposite side of the ring. Unfortunately, Sunny has just enough energy to battle out of Maryse's elimination attempt, drawing a disappointed groan from both Maryse and Brittany. But then... Beth Phoenix's music hits! The "Glamazon" runs out as Brittany turns around in shock, unprepared for her rival to face her now. The Divas champ escapes through the crowd, and Beth gives chase. Both ladies are out of sight after a few seconds, and the focus returns to the ring!
All 4 competitors land impressive moves as the match really starts to even up. Melina struggles against Sunny and gets knocked into the ropes. The "Alabama Beauty" tries to shove her over, but the Hollywood starlet proves to be a tougher challenge than expected. But surprisingly, Maryse hops over and starts to assist her rival! Unable to battle out of the double-team, Melina gets tossed over the top rope for the match's first elimination. Melina collapses to the floor, while Sunny and Maryse look at each other in surprise that they actually worked together.
Sunny turns her attention towards Nikki... but Maryse punches her in the back of the head! The shot dazes Sunny, and Maryse starts to shove her on the ropes. Sensing a chance to knock someone else out of the match, Nikki steps over and starts to help Maryse! Sunny struggles to stay alive, but the 2 ladies prove to be too strong for her to overcome. A moment later, the "Alabama Beauty" loses her balance and tumbles over the top! The attack by Brittany and the double-team move have knocked the rookie out of the bout!
Down to Maryse and Nikki, the French-Canadian beauty takes control and looks impressive doing so. In the end, Maryse shoves Nikki against the ropes. And with one massive dropkick... she sends Nikki over the top for the final elimination! Maryse celebrates proudly while the fans jeer her loudly!
WINNER: Maryse
Backstage Segment
The show switches to backstage, where WWE champ David Degenerate and Mr. McMahon are chatting. Tonight, the corporate duo will come down to the ring and officially sign the contract for Sunday's 3 Stages of Hell match against Mack Wheeler. David has had a tough time getting any momentum over the "Human Semi", including suffering 2 pinfall losses to his rival. The camera focuses in on their conversation.
Mr. McMahon: "It's going to be okay, David."
David: "I just can't believe she's putting me through this. Why do we need a contract signing? She already scheduled the match 3 weeks ago!"
Mr. McMahon: "It's common courtesy in a situation like this to offer each competitor a chance to suggest stipulations and changes to the match. She does seem pretty set in her decision, but we might be able to push things in your favor."
David: "Well... there's only 1 thing I'd like to add to the contract."
A long pause takes place as the allies study each other. Vince ponders what David means, but then it seems his memory comes back. The WWE Chairman shakes his head slightly, but the "Dangerous Genius" nods intently. Finally, Vince sighs and responds.
Mr. McMahon: "Are you sure?"
David: "100 percent."
Mr. McMahon: "Well... it is YOUR match. It's a bold move. If they agree to it... you're going to have to back it up with a victory. A decisive one, at that."
Vince places a firm hand on David's shoulder, trying to convey his seriousness. David lowers his head slightly and nods. Then, the WWE champ stands tall and speaks to Vince directly.
David: "I know. I understand the risks. But... I'm willing to risk it all to save my title. After the whole DMK thing... I have my doubts that she'll let me remain champ anyway. I gotta do something."
Mr. McMahon: "Well... okay. Whatever you decide to do, I'll support you. Come on... let's go get a cup of coffee or something."
The corporate duo exit the scene together as the show heads to commercial. What stipulation is David going to suggest for Sunday's WWE Title match???
Mr. McMahon: "It's going to be okay, David."
David: "I just can't believe she's putting me through this. Why do we need a contract signing? She already scheduled the match 3 weeks ago!"
Mr. McMahon: "It's common courtesy in a situation like this to offer each competitor a chance to suggest stipulations and changes to the match. She does seem pretty set in her decision, but we might be able to push things in your favor."
David: "Well... there's only 1 thing I'd like to add to the contract."
A long pause takes place as the allies study each other. Vince ponders what David means, but then it seems his memory comes back. The WWE Chairman shakes his head slightly, but the "Dangerous Genius" nods intently. Finally, Vince sighs and responds.
Mr. McMahon: "Are you sure?"
David: "100 percent."
Mr. McMahon: "Well... it is YOUR match. It's a bold move. If they agree to it... you're going to have to back it up with a victory. A decisive one, at that."
Vince places a firm hand on David's shoulder, trying to convey his seriousness. David lowers his head slightly and nods. Then, the WWE champ stands tall and speaks to Vince directly.
David: "I know. I understand the risks. But... I'm willing to risk it all to save my title. After the whole DMK thing... I have my doubts that she'll let me remain champ anyway. I gotta do something."
Mr. McMahon: "Well... okay. Whatever you decide to do, I'll support you. Come on... let's go get a cup of coffee or something."
The corporate duo exit the scene together as the show heads to commercial. What stipulation is David going to suggest for Sunday's WWE Title match???
Vignette
Moments before the next match, another video vignette is shown. Thunder rumbles throughout the arena, and images of lightning strikes flash quickly on the giant screen. The lightning images begin to slow down, and images of the blonde flexing man are interspersed. The clips fade out and a close-up of the back of the unknown man's head is shown. A quick cut displays the words "SEE THE LIGHTNING..." and then the close-up returns. The man turns his head slightly and the viewers can see him smile brightly before the video cut to black. After a silent moment, lightning cracks across the screen, thunder rumbles again and the words "... AT THE ROYAL RUMBLE" flash briefly before the vignette ends!
Battle Royal:
Gravedigger vs. Rebel Ford vs. Guy Justice vs. ???
Gravedigger's final battle royal challenge is about to commence, and the crowd is buzzing in curiosity over 2 of Smackdown's popular grapplers competing on Raw tonight... and the mystery opponent that will be revealed soon! Like the past 3 weeks, a lightning bolt hits the stage to signal Gravedigger's entrance and the Memphis crowd boos the "Graveyard Monster" as he walks calmly to the ring. Next, Rebel Ford's music hits and the "Revolutionary Brawler" heads to the ring ready to fight 'Digger and others. Following him is Guy Justice, the controversial "True Savior", who makes his quiet & focused entrance. The 3 known competitors stay loose as they wait patiently for the final opponent, and a few anxious moments pass without any indication. Gravedigger starts to become visibly annoyed as the seconds pass by. Finally...
... CARSON PAIN'S MUSIC HITS!!! The Memphis crowd erupts in a huge cheer as "The Original" makes his return to Raw! Gravedigger's eyes go wide as he watches his rival heads to the ring confidently, just weeks after defeating him in a First Blood match at the last PPV! Carson is back to try and end 'Digger's winning streak just days before the Royal Rumble. Can last year's Rumble winner send a message that he's healthy and ready to challenge anyone? Carson slides into the ring and locks eyes with each of his opponents, including a little smirk reserved for the "Monster". 'Digger is clearly fuming behind his black mask and glares intensely at his rival, and the bell rings to begin the match!
Carson actually goes after the Smackdown challengers first, punching Rebel and dropkicking Justice. He follows up with an Original Twist move on the "Savior", firing up the crowd before turning his attention to 'Digger. He goes on the offensive quickly, punching his rival repeatedly, but the "Monster" responds with a big boot! Meanwhile, Rebel fights with Justice and knocks him into the ropes. Rebel tries to clothesline his foe over the top, but Guy snatches the rope and pulls himself onto the apron. Rebel follows up by trying to shove him off with his foot, using the ropes as leverage. But somehow Justice maintains his balance and manages to crawl back into the action.
A quick succession of moves by all 4 men wow the fans as the battle royal starts to heat up. Carson hits an Original Twist on 'Digger, but the "Monster" takes out his anger on Justice with a big DDT. Carson plants Rebel with an arm drag, while Justice gets payback on 'Digger with a nice German suplex. Despite the "True Savior" putting up a good fight, he gets knocked into the ropes again by Rebel and starts to tussle with him in order to survive. Noticing Justice struggling, Carson decides to assist Rebel in hopes of causing the match's first elimination. Finally, Rebel and Carson get the job done and Justice goes tumbling down to the floor below!
Carson and Rebel start brawling right after their double-team elimination, and Carson attempts to clothesline Rebel out of the ring. But at the last second, Rebel ducks and Carson goes over the top rope! "The Original" grabs the ropes quickly and pulls himself onto the apron, avoiding elimination by a hair. But just before Rebel can try to complete the elimination, 'Digger pulls him away and initiates a fight between them. Despite the aggressiveness, Rebel gets control of the encounter and uses a variety of kicks to knock the big "Monster" down! Carson recovers by then and shoves Rebel into the corner, trying to eliminate him right over the turnbuckle. Somehow, Rebel survives when a desperate push by Carson is spoiled by the "Brawler" grabbing the rope and pulling himself back into the ring.
Instead of fighting each other, Carson and Rebel decide to focus their attention on 'Digger together. This brief alliance leads to a massive double-team DDT on the "Graveyard Monster", exciting the crowd in the process. The move angers Gravedigger more, and he ensures that his two foes receive damage. He delivers another big boot to Carson, and tries to eliminate Rebel. He clotheslines him onto the apron and tries to kick him out, but the resilient Rebel somehow manages to fight out and remain in the match. But despite the constant survival tactics, Rebel appears exhausted after his last elimination avoidance. Carson senses his chance, and goes right after the weakened Rebel. After a short battle, Carson manages to lift Rebel by the legs... and toss him out of the match!
Carson celebrates briefly but knows he has one more foe left... his hated rival! Gravedigger realizes that Carson got rid of Rebel, leaving the two of them to face off again. Carson readies himself for a fight, while 'Digger circles him slowly. Finally, the two start trading vicious punches! The fight is very even early on, but eventually Carson gets control of the "Monster". A big punch sends 'Digger staggering into the ropes, and "The Original" taunts the crowd. In an impressive move, Carson grabs his foe, lifts him onto his shoulders... and power tosses him out of the ring!!!
The bell rings and the crowd goes nuts, and Carson staggers back in shock. He just eliminated Gravedigger to end his battle royal winning streak, and claim victory in the final challenge just days before the real Royal Rumble! 'Digger sits him in stunned anger, unable to believe that he just lost to his rival. Carson and Gravedigger lock eyes, having a staredown between the smiling victor and the upset runner-up, as the show heads to a commercial break!
WINNER: Carson Pain
... CARSON PAIN'S MUSIC HITS!!! The Memphis crowd erupts in a huge cheer as "The Original" makes his return to Raw! Gravedigger's eyes go wide as he watches his rival heads to the ring confidently, just weeks after defeating him in a First Blood match at the last PPV! Carson is back to try and end 'Digger's winning streak just days before the Royal Rumble. Can last year's Rumble winner send a message that he's healthy and ready to challenge anyone? Carson slides into the ring and locks eyes with each of his opponents, including a little smirk reserved for the "Monster". 'Digger is clearly fuming behind his black mask and glares intensely at his rival, and the bell rings to begin the match!
Carson actually goes after the Smackdown challengers first, punching Rebel and dropkicking Justice. He follows up with an Original Twist move on the "Savior", firing up the crowd before turning his attention to 'Digger. He goes on the offensive quickly, punching his rival repeatedly, but the "Monster" responds with a big boot! Meanwhile, Rebel fights with Justice and knocks him into the ropes. Rebel tries to clothesline his foe over the top, but Guy snatches the rope and pulls himself onto the apron. Rebel follows up by trying to shove him off with his foot, using the ropes as leverage. But somehow Justice maintains his balance and manages to crawl back into the action.
A quick succession of moves by all 4 men wow the fans as the battle royal starts to heat up. Carson hits an Original Twist on 'Digger, but the "Monster" takes out his anger on Justice with a big DDT. Carson plants Rebel with an arm drag, while Justice gets payback on 'Digger with a nice German suplex. Despite the "True Savior" putting up a good fight, he gets knocked into the ropes again by Rebel and starts to tussle with him in order to survive. Noticing Justice struggling, Carson decides to assist Rebel in hopes of causing the match's first elimination. Finally, Rebel and Carson get the job done and Justice goes tumbling down to the floor below!
Carson and Rebel start brawling right after their double-team elimination, and Carson attempts to clothesline Rebel out of the ring. But at the last second, Rebel ducks and Carson goes over the top rope! "The Original" grabs the ropes quickly and pulls himself onto the apron, avoiding elimination by a hair. But just before Rebel can try to complete the elimination, 'Digger pulls him away and initiates a fight between them. Despite the aggressiveness, Rebel gets control of the encounter and uses a variety of kicks to knock the big "Monster" down! Carson recovers by then and shoves Rebel into the corner, trying to eliminate him right over the turnbuckle. Somehow, Rebel survives when a desperate push by Carson is spoiled by the "Brawler" grabbing the rope and pulling himself back into the ring.
Instead of fighting each other, Carson and Rebel decide to focus their attention on 'Digger together. This brief alliance leads to a massive double-team DDT on the "Graveyard Monster", exciting the crowd in the process. The move angers Gravedigger more, and he ensures that his two foes receive damage. He delivers another big boot to Carson, and tries to eliminate Rebel. He clotheslines him onto the apron and tries to kick him out, but the resilient Rebel somehow manages to fight out and remain in the match. But despite the constant survival tactics, Rebel appears exhausted after his last elimination avoidance. Carson senses his chance, and goes right after the weakened Rebel. After a short battle, Carson manages to lift Rebel by the legs... and toss him out of the match!
Carson celebrates briefly but knows he has one more foe left... his hated rival! Gravedigger realizes that Carson got rid of Rebel, leaving the two of them to face off again. Carson readies himself for a fight, while 'Digger circles him slowly. Finally, the two start trading vicious punches! The fight is very even early on, but eventually Carson gets control of the "Monster". A big punch sends 'Digger staggering into the ropes, and "The Original" taunts the crowd. In an impressive move, Carson grabs his foe, lifts him onto his shoulders... and power tosses him out of the ring!!!
The bell rings and the crowd goes nuts, and Carson staggers back in shock. He just eliminated Gravedigger to end his battle royal winning streak, and claim victory in the final challenge just days before the real Royal Rumble! 'Digger sits him in stunned anger, unable to believe that he just lost to his rival. Carson and Gravedigger lock eyes, having a staredown between the smiling victor and the upset runner-up, as the show heads to a commercial break!
WINNER: Carson Pain
Backstage Segment
The show returns from a brief pause and the cameras pick up a pacing Mack Wheeler backstage. The "Human Semi" is supposed to partake in the contract signing for his WWE Title shot against David Degenerate this Sunday later in the episode. Mack appears to be deep in thought as he walks back and forth, rubbing his chin as he ponders. As he paces, another person passes him by... Big Mutha Trucker! The "Resident Redneck" is on his way to the ring for his Hardcore Title matchup with champ Tank Blazer, but Mack's pacing catches his attention. Trucker slows up and speaks to the "Human Semi".
Trucker: "Hey man. You doing okay?"
Mack: "Oh... yeah, man I'm okay. Just thinking, that's all."
Trucker: "I hear you. If there's any advice I can give you... it's just to watch out for David's tricks. That guy thrives on bending the rules. He's going to work through every possible scenario and find the smallest advantage."
Mack: "I've started to realize that. But this Sunday... in the 3 Stages of Hell match... he can't escape from me. He's going to have to beat me in either a Hardcore-style match or a Table match... and if by some chance he does, then he's gotta find a way to escape from a Cage match? There's no way that's possible."
Trucker: "It all seems fine now but... don't underestimate him. He's not a bad wrestler. He may be a cheapskate who looks for every little edge he can, but he can hang with the best of them. Don't let your guard. Please... please stay focused. That guy doesn't deserve to hold the WWE Title anymore. He's sullied the whole legacy of that belt by retaining it in the most ridiculous ways, and then attacking DMK with that truck. He's done. You gotta stay focused... and win that title!"
The two shake hands and the pep talk seems to fire Mack up. He bounces around a bit and Trucker starts to step away, but the "Redneck" smirks and turns back.
Trucker: "Hey... I've been meaning to ask you. You... uh... got any advice for me against Tank? You're the one who's faced him in these situations the most."
Mack thinks for a moment, but then responds with a chuckle.
Mack: "Ha... just go kick some ass tonight."
Trucker: "Will do."
Trucker nods and heads towards the ring for his match. Mack rubs his hands together as the segment comes to a close!
Trucker: "Hey man. You doing okay?"
Mack: "Oh... yeah, man I'm okay. Just thinking, that's all."
Trucker: "I hear you. If there's any advice I can give you... it's just to watch out for David's tricks. That guy thrives on bending the rules. He's going to work through every possible scenario and find the smallest advantage."
Mack: "I've started to realize that. But this Sunday... in the 3 Stages of Hell match... he can't escape from me. He's going to have to beat me in either a Hardcore-style match or a Table match... and if by some chance he does, then he's gotta find a way to escape from a Cage match? There's no way that's possible."
Trucker: "It all seems fine now but... don't underestimate him. He's not a bad wrestler. He may be a cheapskate who looks for every little edge he can, but he can hang with the best of them. Don't let your guard. Please... please stay focused. That guy doesn't deserve to hold the WWE Title anymore. He's sullied the whole legacy of that belt by retaining it in the most ridiculous ways, and then attacking DMK with that truck. He's done. You gotta stay focused... and win that title!"
The two shake hands and the pep talk seems to fire Mack up. He bounces around a bit and Trucker starts to step away, but the "Redneck" smirks and turns back.
Trucker: "Hey... I've been meaning to ask you. You... uh... got any advice for me against Tank? You're the one who's faced him in these situations the most."
Mack thinks for a moment, but then responds with a chuckle.
Mack: "Ha... just go kick some ass tonight."
Trucker: "Will do."
Trucker nods and heads towards the ring for his match. Mack rubs his hands together as the segment comes to a close!
Hardcore Championship:
Tank Blazer {c} vs. Big Mutha Trucker
The final match of the night has the crowd excited, as the Hardcore Title will be on the line between two former Tag Team Champion partners! Tank Blazer and Big Mutha Trucker won the Tag Team belts twice as members of the Badass Coalition, but the stable fell apart and the "Captain" turned on his ally along a quest for the U.S. Title. Trucker eventually beat David Degenerate to win the U.S. Title, while Tank entered the Hardcore division in the fall. Tank feuded with Mack Wheeler, winning the Hardcore Title twice including a rivalry-ending match at Survivor Series. Trucker and Tank reignited their feud, and the "Captain" set out to prove that he himself was the best Hardcore grappler while the "Resident Redneck" claimed that Tank's Hardcore Title journey was only started out of jealousy of his former 4 title reigns. Fans were interested to see if Tank would prove himself to be the toughest man on Raw... or if Trucker could claim title reign #5!
Trucker entered first to a huge cheer, and the Tennessee native enjoyed some home-state support. Next, Tank's music plays and the military man from Oklahoma endures angry jeers as he strolls to ringside. The champ scoffs at his rival, taking his time to hand over his title belt to the referee. Trucker stays focused and just glares at the "Captain". The bell rings, and tonight's title bout gets underway!
The action gets going right away, with the two angry men trading punches right away. Trucker manages to deliver an atomic drop, while Tank rallies back with 3 suplexes. Frustrated, Trucker responds to a Tank taunt... by kicking him right out of the ring! Outside the ring, the "Redneck" continues his aggressive approach. He tosses Tank into the steel steps, which knocks them off their post. Trucker then lifts up the bulky steel object... and smashes it into the champ's face! With Tank down, Trucker looks for a new weapon and spots... a guitar! Tank has been known to use the instrument as a weapon, and Trucker decides to deliver a dose of his own medicine. But when the "Redneck" swings it towards his foe... Tank ducks it and steals it away! Tank winds up and splinters the wooden guitar right over Trucker's head!
Tank reaches into the crowd and grabs a crutch from a fan, and swings it into his opponent's gut! The crutch bends awkwardly and the champ tosses it aside. He goes back to lift up his challenger... but an angry Trucker begins to fight back! He whips the champ into the announce table, and then follows up by slamming Tank's head right off the table. He then tosses the "Captain" into the barricade, and Tank leans against it dazed. Trucker looks over and eyes the bent crutch nearby. Sensing a chance for payback, Trucker grabs the medical item... and blasts the champ in the skull with it!
While the champ lays on the floor in pain, Trucker decides to find a larger item to inflict damage. He scours under the ring and pulls out... a wooden table! The "Redneck" slides into the ring with it and looks for a spot to setup. Finally, he decides to lean the table against the corner turnbuckle and turns around to find his foe. But his trek to setup the table caused him to forget about the champ, and Tank is waiting behind him with another guitar! Trucker turns around and Tank again smashes the instrument over his opponent's head! Tank grabs the leaned table and lays it on the mat, eyeing it as a possible landing spot. Sure enough, Tank lifts his rival up and plants him hard onto the flat wood with a fallaway slam and a big suplex!
But Trucker is more resilient than expected, and he rallies back with some damaging shots. After knocking down the champ and setting up the table, the "Redneck" lays the champ onto the wood. Trucker then scales the turnbuckle, leaps off... and crashes through Tank with a flying headbutt! The table busts into several pieces and it appears the impact hurts the champ a lot. Trucker then grabs a chair, and uses it wisely to damage the "Captain" even more. He first smacks him in the head with a vicious chair shot, and then lays the chair under Tank's face on the mat. He snags another chair... and smacks them together to deliver a con-chair-to! Trucker then places the chair around Tank's head and neck... and stomps onto it to snap the champ's neck painfully!
The repeated chair shots dazes Tank, and the champ can barely make it to his feet. When he does, the fired-up challenger lifts him up quickly. Using the folded chair as a landing spot, Trucker slams Tank down with his signature White Trash move! Tank rises to his feet slowly, holding his back in pain. When he faces Trucker, the "Resident Redneck" surprises him with his Big Foot finishing kick! Trucker goes for the pin and the referee counts 1... 2... 3!!!
The Memphis crowd goes crazy as the Nashville native has just upset Tank Blazer to claim his 5th Hardcore Title! The ref hands Trucker the belt, and he stares at it in disbelief for a moment. Then, he raises it up in celebration and shouts excitedly! The huge cheers and the wild smile on Trucker's face is the enduring image as the show heads to its final break!
WINNER (and NEW Hardcore Champion): Big Mutha Trucker
Trucker entered first to a huge cheer, and the Tennessee native enjoyed some home-state support. Next, Tank's music plays and the military man from Oklahoma endures angry jeers as he strolls to ringside. The champ scoffs at his rival, taking his time to hand over his title belt to the referee. Trucker stays focused and just glares at the "Captain". The bell rings, and tonight's title bout gets underway!
The action gets going right away, with the two angry men trading punches right away. Trucker manages to deliver an atomic drop, while Tank rallies back with 3 suplexes. Frustrated, Trucker responds to a Tank taunt... by kicking him right out of the ring! Outside the ring, the "Redneck" continues his aggressive approach. He tosses Tank into the steel steps, which knocks them off their post. Trucker then lifts up the bulky steel object... and smashes it into the champ's face! With Tank down, Trucker looks for a new weapon and spots... a guitar! Tank has been known to use the instrument as a weapon, and Trucker decides to deliver a dose of his own medicine. But when the "Redneck" swings it towards his foe... Tank ducks it and steals it away! Tank winds up and splinters the wooden guitar right over Trucker's head!
Tank reaches into the crowd and grabs a crutch from a fan, and swings it into his opponent's gut! The crutch bends awkwardly and the champ tosses it aside. He goes back to lift up his challenger... but an angry Trucker begins to fight back! He whips the champ into the announce table, and then follows up by slamming Tank's head right off the table. He then tosses the "Captain" into the barricade, and Tank leans against it dazed. Trucker looks over and eyes the bent crutch nearby. Sensing a chance for payback, Trucker grabs the medical item... and blasts the champ in the skull with it!
While the champ lays on the floor in pain, Trucker decides to find a larger item to inflict damage. He scours under the ring and pulls out... a wooden table! The "Redneck" slides into the ring with it and looks for a spot to setup. Finally, he decides to lean the table against the corner turnbuckle and turns around to find his foe. But his trek to setup the table caused him to forget about the champ, and Tank is waiting behind him with another guitar! Trucker turns around and Tank again smashes the instrument over his opponent's head! Tank grabs the leaned table and lays it on the mat, eyeing it as a possible landing spot. Sure enough, Tank lifts his rival up and plants him hard onto the flat wood with a fallaway slam and a big suplex!
But Trucker is more resilient than expected, and he rallies back with some damaging shots. After knocking down the champ and setting up the table, the "Redneck" lays the champ onto the wood. Trucker then scales the turnbuckle, leaps off... and crashes through Tank with a flying headbutt! The table busts into several pieces and it appears the impact hurts the champ a lot. Trucker then grabs a chair, and uses it wisely to damage the "Captain" even more. He first smacks him in the head with a vicious chair shot, and then lays the chair under Tank's face on the mat. He snags another chair... and smacks them together to deliver a con-chair-to! Trucker then places the chair around Tank's head and neck... and stomps onto it to snap the champ's neck painfully!
The repeated chair shots dazes Tank, and the champ can barely make it to his feet. When he does, the fired-up challenger lifts him up quickly. Using the folded chair as a landing spot, Trucker slams Tank down with his signature White Trash move! Tank rises to his feet slowly, holding his back in pain. When he faces Trucker, the "Resident Redneck" surprises him with his Big Foot finishing kick! Trucker goes for the pin and the referee counts 1... 2... 3!!!
The Memphis crowd goes crazy as the Nashville native has just upset Tank Blazer to claim his 5th Hardcore Title! The ref hands Trucker the belt, and he stares at it in disbelief for a moment. Then, he raises it up in celebration and shouts excitedly! The huge cheers and the wild smile on Trucker's face is the enduring image as the show heads to its final break!
WINNER (and NEW Hardcore Champion): Big Mutha Trucker
In-Ring Segment:
WWE Championship Contract Signing
The show returns for the closing event, the highly-anticipated WWE Title contract signing! Raw GM Stephanie McMahon scheduled a 3 Stages of Hell match for Sunday's PPV, where Mack Wheeler will challenge champ David Degenerate in an Extreme Rules Falls Count Anywhere match, a Tables match and if needed, a Steel Cage match. The 2-out-of-3 falls battle is a pseudo-punishment for David winning at last month's PPV due to interference by Anarchy and the revelation that he was the one who smashed into DMK's car with a stolen truck after the Judgment Day PPV. The "Dangerous Genius" has been skating on thin ice, and it seems this Sunday's match might be an impossible challenge for his lengthy title reign to survive. The contract signing might reveal additional stipulations, but the excitement of finally letting David stand face-to-face with Mack has the fans buzzing!
Stephanie enters first and approaches the ring confidently. The ring is covered in a red carpet with a single table, a few chairs and the contract booklet laying open alongside several ink pens. The Raw GM climbs in and nods happily towards the cheering fans. Next, Mack Wheeler's music plays and the crowd welcomes him warmly. The "Human Semi" will have a huge opportunity to claim his 1st WWE Title this Sunday, and he appears ready to go. Finally, David's theme blasts out and the crowd unloads on him with angry boos. The WWE champ walks slowly towards the ring with Mr. McMahon trailing close behind, and the "Genius" has a hard time looking his rival in the eye. Mack smirks arrogantly as the cowardly champion steps into the ring and stays as far away from him as possible. Once everybody is in the ring, Stephanie attempts to begin the procedure.
Steph: "Hello, gentlemen. Tonight we will officially sign the contract for this Sunday's WWE Championship match, where..."
But before she can continue, Vince interrupts.
Mr. McMahon: "I'm sorry to interrupt you, Steph but... before we continue, David and I would like to offer you a chance to reconsider this abomination of a match."
Stephanie is annoyed by her father's impedance, and more offended by his comment. She scoffs at him and replies.
Steph: "Umm... no, Dad. I've made up my mind. This match is happening and there's nothing you can do to stop it. To continue my comments before I was rudely interrupted... I'd like to offer each man a chance to suggest changes or added stipulations to the match. Mack, as the challenger, I'm going to let you speak first."
Mack thinks for a moment and stares at David intensely, causing the champ to look away. The "Human Semi" smirks when David breaks eye contact and responds to her.
Mack: "Honestly... I don't need to add anything to this match. It's great the way it is. I just wanna fight. That's all I want. I want to get my hands on that coward and break him into tiny little pieces. And after I destroy him, I'm going to take that WWE Title away from him and restore it back to its glory."
The crowd cheers for him and David shakes his head at their response, rubbing the title belt around his waist. Steph seems impressed with Mack's comments and turns towards David.
Steph: "David, it is now your turn. I know this might seem like your final days as WWE Champion... but I'm willing to give you a chance to offer a stipulation. You know... kinda like a consolation prize."
David looks at Stephanie with an angry scowl, and then looks at Vince for support. The WWE Chairman nods and pats him on the back, before gesturing the champ to respond. David takes a deep breath and replies.
David: "The only thing I want... is to put in to the contract... that if I win on Sunday... if I'm able to outlast that stupid idiot over there... then I want YOU to be REMOVED as Raw General Manager!"
The crowd is shocked and Stephanie is as well. David wants to remove Steph as Raw GM if he's able to win on Sunday! Stephanie can't believe it and a smirk starts to form on the champ's face. Mack looks at Steph in confusion, while Vince takes the mic from David to add another comment.
Mr. McMahon: "The question here, Stephanie, is... are you willing to put your job on the line to take David's title away? Do you honestly believe that Mack can actually defeat David on Sunday? If so, then you should agree to David's stipulation. Do you believe in Mack?"
Stephanie looks at Mack and the "Human Semi" locks eyes with her. She seems conflicted in her feelings but the confidence in Mack's expression seems to calm her. Reluctantly, she responds.
Steph: "Yes. I believe in Mack. He's going to win on Sunday."
Mr. McMahon: "Then it's settled! A 3 Stages of Hell match for the WWE Championship, and if David is victorious, then Stephanie McMahon will step down as Raw General Manager. If we are all in agreement, then let's sign this contract and be on our way."
David and Vince approach the table first, with the WWE Chairman gleefully signing the paper. David accepts the pen from his corporate ally and takes one last glance at his rival. With a deep breath, David leans over and signs the contract. Next, Mack steps up and David quickly steps away. The "Human Semi" chuckles and eagerly signs his name. Finally, it's Stephanie's turn but the Raw GM still seems unsure. She accepts the pen slowly from Mack but doesn't sign right away. She looks around the arena to gauge the crowd's reaction. It's a mixed reaction, but Mack assures her again that he can win. Steph looks at her father and the WWE champ, eyeing David's cocky smile last. His expression angers her and she finally signs her name down. The crowd cheers as the final signature inks the paper, and the contract signing seemingly goes off without a hitch. The four people in the ring look at each other awkwardly as it seems weird that this event had no incidents.
Finally, Mack and Steph decide to exit the ring and turn their backs to the corporate duo. But just as Mack turns around... David races at him with his title belt raised as a weapon! David swings the item towards Mack's head... but the "Human Semi" ducks in time! David misses and staggers around off-balance... and Mack wraps his arms around him quickly! Mack lifts the champ up... and smashes him through the table with a massive German suplex! David gets knocked out and Vince's jaw drops in shock! The crowd whoops it up as they enjoy watching the "Genius" laying in the broken pile of wood. Mack eyes the WWE Title laying nearby, and steps over to pick it up. He chuckles to himself and then puts his foot onto David's chest... and raises the belt up high! The fans cheer again and the final image of Mack standing tall with the title over the champ's body ends the show!
Stephanie enters first and approaches the ring confidently. The ring is covered in a red carpet with a single table, a few chairs and the contract booklet laying open alongside several ink pens. The Raw GM climbs in and nods happily towards the cheering fans. Next, Mack Wheeler's music plays and the crowd welcomes him warmly. The "Human Semi" will have a huge opportunity to claim his 1st WWE Title this Sunday, and he appears ready to go. Finally, David's theme blasts out and the crowd unloads on him with angry boos. The WWE champ walks slowly towards the ring with Mr. McMahon trailing close behind, and the "Genius" has a hard time looking his rival in the eye. Mack smirks arrogantly as the cowardly champion steps into the ring and stays as far away from him as possible. Once everybody is in the ring, Stephanie attempts to begin the procedure.
Steph: "Hello, gentlemen. Tonight we will officially sign the contract for this Sunday's WWE Championship match, where..."
But before she can continue, Vince interrupts.
Mr. McMahon: "I'm sorry to interrupt you, Steph but... before we continue, David and I would like to offer you a chance to reconsider this abomination of a match."
Stephanie is annoyed by her father's impedance, and more offended by his comment. She scoffs at him and replies.
Steph: "Umm... no, Dad. I've made up my mind. This match is happening and there's nothing you can do to stop it. To continue my comments before I was rudely interrupted... I'd like to offer each man a chance to suggest changes or added stipulations to the match. Mack, as the challenger, I'm going to let you speak first."
Mack thinks for a moment and stares at David intensely, causing the champ to look away. The "Human Semi" smirks when David breaks eye contact and responds to her.
Mack: "Honestly... I don't need to add anything to this match. It's great the way it is. I just wanna fight. That's all I want. I want to get my hands on that coward and break him into tiny little pieces. And after I destroy him, I'm going to take that WWE Title away from him and restore it back to its glory."
The crowd cheers for him and David shakes his head at their response, rubbing the title belt around his waist. Steph seems impressed with Mack's comments and turns towards David.
Steph: "David, it is now your turn. I know this might seem like your final days as WWE Champion... but I'm willing to give you a chance to offer a stipulation. You know... kinda like a consolation prize."
David looks at Stephanie with an angry scowl, and then looks at Vince for support. The WWE Chairman nods and pats him on the back, before gesturing the champ to respond. David takes a deep breath and replies.
David: "The only thing I want... is to put in to the contract... that if I win on Sunday... if I'm able to outlast that stupid idiot over there... then I want YOU to be REMOVED as Raw General Manager!"
The crowd is shocked and Stephanie is as well. David wants to remove Steph as Raw GM if he's able to win on Sunday! Stephanie can't believe it and a smirk starts to form on the champ's face. Mack looks at Steph in confusion, while Vince takes the mic from David to add another comment.
Mr. McMahon: "The question here, Stephanie, is... are you willing to put your job on the line to take David's title away? Do you honestly believe that Mack can actually defeat David on Sunday? If so, then you should agree to David's stipulation. Do you believe in Mack?"
Stephanie looks at Mack and the "Human Semi" locks eyes with her. She seems conflicted in her feelings but the confidence in Mack's expression seems to calm her. Reluctantly, she responds.
Steph: "Yes. I believe in Mack. He's going to win on Sunday."
Mr. McMahon: "Then it's settled! A 3 Stages of Hell match for the WWE Championship, and if David is victorious, then Stephanie McMahon will step down as Raw General Manager. If we are all in agreement, then let's sign this contract and be on our way."
David and Vince approach the table first, with the WWE Chairman gleefully signing the paper. David accepts the pen from his corporate ally and takes one last glance at his rival. With a deep breath, David leans over and signs the contract. Next, Mack steps up and David quickly steps away. The "Human Semi" chuckles and eagerly signs his name. Finally, it's Stephanie's turn but the Raw GM still seems unsure. She accepts the pen slowly from Mack but doesn't sign right away. She looks around the arena to gauge the crowd's reaction. It's a mixed reaction, but Mack assures her again that he can win. Steph looks at her father and the WWE champ, eyeing David's cocky smile last. His expression angers her and she finally signs her name down. The crowd cheers as the final signature inks the paper, and the contract signing seemingly goes off without a hitch. The four people in the ring look at each other awkwardly as it seems weird that this event had no incidents.
Finally, Mack and Steph decide to exit the ring and turn their backs to the corporate duo. But just as Mack turns around... David races at him with his title belt raised as a weapon! David swings the item towards Mack's head... but the "Human Semi" ducks in time! David misses and staggers around off-balance... and Mack wraps his arms around him quickly! Mack lifts the champ up... and smashes him through the table with a massive German suplex! David gets knocked out and Vince's jaw drops in shock! The crowd whoops it up as they enjoy watching the "Genius" laying in the broken pile of wood. Mack eyes the WWE Title laying nearby, and steps over to pick it up. He chuckles to himself and then puts his foot onto David's chest... and raises the belt up high! The fans cheer again and the final image of Mack standing tall with the title over the champ's body ends the show!
January Show Results |
January PPV |
February Show Results |