The Wrestling Observer


Quote:

~It has been confirmed that this week on SmackDown, we will see MVP defending his United States Championship against CM Punk. The match was announced on WWE.com earlier this week, with the article stating that General Manager Theodore Long is forcing MVP to defend his title after picking up a victory on Raw with his 'knee injury'. Porter is expected to retain, but you can be sure he'll be dropping the title to Punk sometime down the road, possibly at Backlash or Judgment Day. The two are most likely to meet at these events for the title, and may even top of the feud they've started with a Steel Cage Match at Night of Champions. ~TNA has been treating their superstars quite poorly as of late. According to several superstars that we have interviewed, they aren't paying the wrestlers very much, and the salary of some continue to drop. WWE has taken advantage of this golden opportunity, which is exactly why stars like Chris Harris, James Storm, Christian, and others have signed with WWE. Booker T and Sharmell are working on getting a contract to come back, as they are being mistreated in TNA, making them both realize it was the wrong decision to leave. Christy Hemme and Kurt Angle both turned down contracts, with Hemme saying maybe at a later date, and Angle saying he likes it where he is. ~JBL has started to get sudden back pains in his lower back, which will hinder his in-ring performance and the schedule and plans that were in order for him. It's almost guaranteed now that he will lose to Rey Mysterio at WrestleMania, considering there is a slight chance he may be done wrestling for good if he keeps at the hard-working pace he's been going at. He will not be attending house shows for the next few weeks, and will not go on WWE's tour in Russia at the beginning of May, as Vince wants him at 100% for the next few months. ~Randy Orton and The Rock are scheduled to do a program after WrestleMania in another one of Orton's "Legend vs. Legend Killer" feuds. It looks as if The Rock will come out on top to give him some more popularity, even though he hardly needs it. However, having Orton win would boost him into the WWE Title scene, which is where many feel he belongs.

***






SmackDown Preview; March 21st, 2008; Mobile, Alabama


Nine days remain until WWE once again goes big
time as things roll around to WrestleMania, but not with two more
SmackDown stops along the way, one of which takes place this Friday in
Mobile, Alabama, but after Saturday Night's Main Event and WrestleMania
Rewind Night, both of which were filled with tension, what's been
planned for the SmackDown superstars this week?

After being on opposite ends last week, Edge and Batista proved that
they can work together as Edge saved Batista from an Undertaker and
Shawn Michaels attack. However, any trust earned from Edge was
completely thrown away the next night when Edge walked away from his
own partner, Batista, and then hit him with a steel chair to make
matters worse. Batista gained revenge two nights later on Raw, but does
this mean the score is even? We'll find out in both men's own words
this week as The Rated R Superstar hosts the World Heavyweight Champion
on his talk show, The Cutting Edge. Words will be exchanged, but will
we get a real reaction on each man's output concerning each other's
trust?

After picking up a singles victory with his knee injury, MVP is being
ordered by Theodore Long to defend his United States Championship
against CM Punk. The Straightedge Superstar has been on fire lately,
and would do absolutely anything to get his hands on the gold. Will
MVP's 'injury' prevent him from overcoming Punk, or will his smart
in-ring skills and awareness prevail once more?

Gail Kim made a shocking return at Saturday Night's Main Event in an
attempt to help Chris Harris and James Storm, America's Most Wanted,
capture the WWE Tag Team Championship. Even though she may have
eliminated Cherry, it wasn't quite enough as Deuce and Domino once
again showed us why they're carrying the gold. Surely America's Most
Wanted won't let their recent momentum come to a halt like that, but
will they be able to let the past stay in the past and get right back
in the title hunt?

Find out the answers to all of these questions and more by tuning into SmackDown, this Friday Night at 8/7 CT.

Friday Night SmackDown; March 21st, 2008; Mobile, Alabama


We are shown a quick video package that recaps
Saturday Night's Main Event, before we cut to the arena as fireworks
blast off of the stage and we cut over to the announce table.

Michael Cole: Hello everyone and welcome to another edition of
Friday Night SmackDown, coming to you from Mobile, Alabama. I am
Michael Cole, here at ringside with former ECW Champion, Tazz, and
partner, what a show we've got in store for the SmackDown fans tonight.

Tazz: That's for sure, Cole. Edge tried to gain Batista's
trust, but at Saturday Night's Main Event, he threw that idea out the
window, and now, he will host the World Heavyweight Champion on the
Cutting Edge, right here tonight!!

Michael Cole: But that's not all. SmackDown General Manager
Theodore Long is forcing United States Champion, MVP, to go one-on-one
with CM Punk with his title on the line, now that it appears MVP's
'knee injury' has gotten better.

"Longhorn" hits across the PA system as the fans
boo and moan in disapproval. The Wrestling God, John Bradshaw Layfield,
steps out of his white stretch limousine, and with an initimidating
scowl, proceeds down the ramp. He ignores the defiant fans at ringside
as he climbs up the steps and into the squared circle where he grabs a
microphone.

Michael Cole: The former WWE Champion, John Bradshaw Layfield,
doesn't appear to be the happiest camper. Just six nights ago at
Saturday Night's Main Event, he was on the losing end of a Six-Man Tag
Team Match, which doesn't help his momentum going into his match with
Rey Mysterio at WrestleMania.

Tazz: No ... no, it doesn't. And when it comes to matches that
are as big as his one at WrestleMania, you're gonna need all the
momentum you can get, and right now, it appears as if Rey Mysterio has
that advantage in his corner.

JBL: Today, I'm not here to make excuses, but all I can say is
that when you're being forced to team up with hippies like John
Morrison and Carlito, you're guaranteed to be on the short end of the
stick. But I've already told myself over and over that they're a waste
of my time, as is Rey Mysterio.

Decent amount of heat

JBL: In nine nights from now, I could
be out at some bar with a couple of hot women, havin' myself a jolly
ol' time. Or ... ... or I could be wasting my entire evening by being
in this very ring with someone of such low class as Rey Mysterio!

Boos contain the entire arena as the Mobile fans clearly admire Rey Mysterio

JBL: Rey Mysterio has class? You
think that two cent midget has class? Let me tell you a story that's
important for each and everyone of you to know, and the theme of it ...
is class. It's a story that might make you realize just how
disrespectful Rey Mysterio really is. And most importantly, it will
give you an idea of why I deserve to be in this very ring, and not Rey
Mysterio.

JBL pauses as he expects some kind of reaction, but doesn't get much of one.

JBL: I want you all to go back two
years ago ... WrestleMania 22, where Rey Mysterio finally went big and
main evented on the Grandest Stage of 'em All, and in the process ...
... won the World Heavyweight Championship.

Tremendous pop

JBL: This was the day that Rey
Mysterio finally went big time, hit the big leagues, hit the grand
slam, and y'know what also happened that day? I became the United
States Champion, solidifiying my name as a true, American ... ...
heee-roooo.

Small amount of heat

JBL: After the show ... after the
show, it was all about glory for that non-American nobody. Rey Mysterio
was getting all of the attention, the glory, the media, just because he
won a championship. Newsflash - I also won a championship that night!!!
And I did so by pinning the champion, one of the greatest techinical
wrestlers ever, while your good ol' boy Rey Mysterio ... he didn't do
things that way. No, he did things his own way, and when this 'two foot
tall midget' does things his own way, they are ab-so-lutely pathetic!!

More heat for the Wrestling God

JBL: I tried to put a stop to this,
but no ... no, Rey Mysterio had other ideas, and by doing so ... (JBL
pauses as he is clearly angered over what happened) ... Damnit, he
forced me to retire!!

Large pop as the fans clearly enjoyed this moment in wrestling history

JBL: You can cheer all you want, but
in the end, it proves that none of you should even be living in this
country, hell, none of you should even be walking on the same soil as
JBL, John Bradshaw Layfield, the man who should be President, a true
American Hero, the Wrestling ... ... God!!!

The cheers suddenly turn into boos as the fans don't appreciate JBL's lack of respect for them.

JBL: After I retired, I had to go sit
behind that table over there (points at the announce table) with
Michael Cole. It wouldn't be as bad if I didn't have to sit there, week
after week, month after month, year after god damn year!! ... to call
matches for your phony hero ... ... Rey Mysterio. That's fair, 'aint
it? Isn't it fair to have to talk about the man who forced you into
retirement for every single week? NO!! HELL NO!!!

The crowd give JBL a large amount of heat for his burst of anger

JBL: WHY THE HELL SHOULD I BE FORCED
TO BE REY MYSTERIO'S SLAVE?!!!! ... (regaining his breath) ... ... It's
not fair, so all that I had to do was even the score, and eliminating
you from the Royal Rumble and proving that you were in my spot was just
the way to do it. The look on your face was priceless ... absolutely
priceless, Rey, and at the same time, I got a great deal of pleasure.
The pleasure that I had been waiting to come for almost two ... years.
Two years, Rey ... that's how long I waited to prove to you that I
deserve to once again compete in this very ring, the ring where I won
championship ... after championship ... after championship. And unlike
you, (mocking voice) Rey Mysterio ... I am a true champion.

Large amount of heat

JBL: So Rey, there's just one
more thing I thought I would like to get through that tiny, but thick,
skull of yours. You and I, me and you, legend and fake (small heat) ...
the last time we met in this ring, one-on-one, face-to-face, toe-to-toe
... man-to-man ... ... you sent me packin', didn't ya'?

Great pop

JBL: But in just one week from
Sunday, we will do that once more, but this time, it's not about any
title. It's not about forcing someone to retire, and hell, it's not
even about trying to teach you respect. Our match this Sunday, Rey, is
about grudge ... my grudge ... ... the grudge I have held back for two
long years, and in the process, it will prove who really is the better
man ... ... ... ... me.

The fans boo as JBL's music once again plays as he drops the microphone and exits the ring.

{Commercials}

Match 1
Chavo Guerrero vs. Jimmy Wang Yang
Jamie Noble watches the match from ringside, and after him and Chavo teamed up on Yang at Saturday Night's Main Event, the crowd doesn't know what to expect. All three men continue to look at the Cruiserweight Championship, which is on a red display case by where Tony Chimel has seated himself to enjoy the action. Guerrero and
Yang show their impressive in-ring skills by putting them to their full potential with some incredible moves that keep the crowd inspired. As we reach the seven minute mark, Yang goes for the Yangsault, but lands on his feet after Chavo runs forward to get out of the way. Chavo then begins the Three Amigos - first suplex ... second suplex ... Yang slips
out the back door of the third suplex right into a pin, but Noble pulls him off from the outside without the referee seeing. An angry Yang yells at Noble, and then goes back over to Chavo, but it was enough of a distraction to allow Chavo to hit the Brainbuster for the three count.
Winner via pinfall at 7:29; Chavo Guerrero

The victorious Chavo Guerrero gets his hand raised as Noble slides into the ring and looks at Jimmy Wang Yang in
disgust, before raising Chavo's hand as well. However, Noble blindsides Guerrero by pulling him forward and knocking him down with a clothesline. The Pitbull finishes off his quick attack by lifting Chavo to his feet, before planting him with the Nobilizer, getting somewhat of a decent pop from the crowd. Noble's music plays as he exits the ring and up the ramp, while the two men that actually completed lay in the ring.

Backstage, Theodore Long is in his office, reading the latest edition of WWE Magazine quietly, that is, until America's Most Wanted with Gail Kim enter to a large pop from the crowd. Long gets up with the magazine in hand to greet his newest tag team.

Chris Harris: Say, Teddy, is that the new WWE Magazine?

Theodore Long: Ye-

Chris Harris: It doesn't matter. That's the least of our worries, as there are much bigger things we have on our minds, that we have our eyes set on.

Theodore Long nods his head as he knows what they are talking about.

Theodore Long: The WWE Tag Titles?

James Storm: You know it. I mean, we aren't sore losers. We can accept losses, even if they are title matches, but it's not in our system to accept losses where we were screwed.

Gail Kim: What happened six nights ago at Saturday Night's Main Event ... that wasn't fair. It wasn't fair that they were screwed out of their chance to make it big here in the WWE. I was watching that match backstage, just moments after I had officially signed my contract, and I knew I had to do something. I for one don't like to see others get screwed out of championships, so I made a statement. Did it win them the titles? Unfortunately ... no. But what it did do was send a little message to Deuce, Domino, and that Cherry they bring with them. This is America's Most Wanted - Chris Harris, James Storm, and Gail Kim, and we are the best tag team here on Friday Night SmackDown.

Kim gets somewhat of a decent pop as Long takes in the comments.

Theodore Long: Well, hun', I can see where you're coming from, but what am I going to do?

Gail Kim: How about giving them a rematch at those titles, right here tonight in Mobile, Alabama.

Large pop for the thought of this, and for the mention of their city.

Theodore Long: I would love to see that match, playas, I really would, but I can't do that, I'm sorry.

Small amount of heat as Harris and Storm don't understand.

Chris Harris: What are you talking about?

James Storm: Why the hell not?

Theodore Long: I know you're upset, however, I appreciate what Deuce and Domino did, even if it involved cheating. I mean, they did everything in their power to retain their titles, which you have to give them some respect for.

America's Most Wanted look pretty ticked off.

Theodore Long: But on the other hand, you two got the short end of the stick, which means there will be reprecautions. So if you want another shot at those titles, you have a chance to get them, but first ... ... first, you'll have to win a match tonight. Because when you win your match tonight, you will get a shot at the WWE Tag Team
Championship, and you'll get it ... at WrestleMania.

Tremendous Pop

Gail Kim: And just what kind of match will my boys be competing in?

Theodore Long: Your boys? Oh, don't worry there Miss Kim, you're involved in it as well. Because right here tonight, we are going to see a Six Person Intergender Tag Team Match. On one side ... Deuce, Domino, and Cherry.

Fairly large amount of heat.

Theodore Long: And on the other side ... Chris Harris, James Storm, and Gail Kim - America's Most Wanted!!!

Fabulous pop for this huge match.

Theodore Long: Now that is what I call a match, don't ya' say, dawgs? Holla'!

America's Most Wanted grin over the idea of the match, before exiting the office. Long watches them leave with an excited smile from ear to ear.

{Commercials}

Raw Rebound
~The Rock runs the gauntlet, but at the end, is brutally beat down by Kane
~The Hardys vs. Carlito and John Morrison is made for WrestleMania
~Kane interferes in the Shawn Michaels/Chris Jericho match by targeting Jericho. Jericho locks Kane in the Walls of Jericho, Michaels nails Jericho, and then Michaels connects with the Tombstone Piledriver to the Undertaker - using his own move against him.

Backstage, Victoria is power walking down the hall to the catoring station. She receives a few boos, but not too many. She sees Maryse, who when first sees The Widows Peak Freak, drops her food and runs out of the locker room screaming as Victoria chuckles to herself. A hungry Victoria grabs an orange and begins peeling it, but is cut short as she receives a small tap on the shoulder. She turns around as the camera moves over to show MELINA standing there. The number one contender to the Women's Title at WrestleMania gets a decent amount of heat. Victoria is peeling her orange as Melina speaks, and keeps her head down when she talks.

Melina: Do you have a minute, Victoria?

Victoria: As long as you don't waste my time...

Melina: Don't worry, I'll make it quick. I'm sure you've heard that I have a shot at the Women's Title a week from Sunday at WrestleMania.

Victoria: Yeah, I heard.

Melina: Now I know that you would love to be in my position, and I would love you there, but there's no way I'm going to give up my shot. However, being the person I am, I have a proposition to you, that I'm sure you'll be just as interested in, and it involves you getting a shot at the Women's Title.

Victoria stops peeling the orange and looks up, far more interested in what Melina has to say.

Melina: You may not know it, but you and I are the same. We have so much in common. I mean, we're both two time Women's Champions, we both have a grudge against those divas that are here for eye-candy, and, we both have a desire for gold.

Victoria: True.

Melina: So that's why, I want you to help me out with my match at WrestleMania.

Victoria: (Surprised) What?

Melina: Yeah, I'm serious. Just imagine, Melina and Victoria, the two greatest Women's Champions of all time, working together. Just think of what we could do, Victoria.

Victoria is thinking of the idea, and kind of likes it.

Melina: So let me give you a proposition of a lifetime. If you help me defeat Mickie James at WrestleMania to win the Women's Title, I will be sure to give you the first title shot ... anytime, anywhere. So you think about that, and be
sure to give me an answer.

Victoria: Yeah ... ... I'll think about it.

Melina: Good, I'm looking forward to your answer.

With an evil smile, Melina turns around and exits the catoring area as Victoria thinks about the idea, before taking her first bite of the orange.

Match 2
Money in the Bank Preview
Ric Flair vs. Christian w/Tyson Tomko
This interpromotional match sees some excellent talent lock up, as one of the all time greats, Ric Flair, goes up against a Ladder Match specialist, as well as a former Tag Team and Intercontinental Champion, Christian. Flair gains an early advantage, but it's cut short with a nice Flapjack from Christian that only gets a two count. The Instant Classic locks Naitch in an Abdominal Stretch, but soon, Flair fights out with a back elbow to Christian's jaw, before grabbing Christian and pulling him over his head into a Snapmare position. Flair fires up with several knife-edged chops, but soon, Christian fights right back by connecting with a Rib Breaker. After some more back and forth action, which to the surprise of many, doesn't turn out to be that good, Christian puts the Nature Boy away by using Flair's tactics against him with a low blow and a roll up.
Winner via pinfall at 5:54; Christian

Captain Charisma rolls to the outside and heads up the ramp with Tyson Tomko, celebrating the victory that Christian
just managed to pull off, giving him a good bit of momentum for the time being.

{Commercials}

Backstage, Kristal is standing at the interview area with a microphone in hand, looking happy and 'jumpy'.

Kristal: Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce to you the man who will be competing for the United States Championship in a matter of moments ... C-M-Punk.

The Straightedged Superstar and number one contender, CM Punk, appears on camera with a smug, yet focused look on his face.

Kristal: Now Punk, over the past few weeks, you and the United States Champion, MVP, have shared your differences, and have made it pretty clear that neither of you like each other. But tonight, you get another shot at his title, so will you take your rivalry to the next step?

CM Punk: Kristal, I must say, the saying "looks can be deceiving" has just come into play. For being so gorgeous, you do bring some valid points to the table.

Kristal is flattered, and appreciates what Punk has said.

CM Punk: But there certainly are a few things that I can't let go unsaid. The truth is, it's not that I don't like MVP, it's just that I have little respect for him as a person ... a man ... ... a champion. You see, MVP could be the best guy on the roster. Hell, he could have every title if he wanted to, but the one thing that's holding him back from achieving this is respect. MVP has never shown any respect whatsoever for anybody else, myself included, and now, when I meet him in that ring tonight, he has either two options - put up, or shut up.

Small pop

CM Punk: MVP is one of the greatest athletes in this business, without a doubt. But when he has so little disrespect for me as a performer that he has to rely to faking injuries, claiming he's better than me, and whatever else he does ... ... that bothers me.

Kristal: It bothers you because he doesn't respect you?

CM Punk: Exactly. This so called 'champion' has no respect for me, you, these people, or anybody else. And that's why, I need to win that championship tonight. If SmackDown doesn't get a better United States Champion, what will this brand become? A brand of selfishness, disrespect, dirty tactics, and any other negative thoughts you can brainstorm. So tonight, I'm on a mission ... and that mission? ... Beating MVP.

Another small pop for CM Punk

CM Punk: And if I lose my match tonight, I will have failed that mission. But will that happen? ... No ... I can assure you that I will finally be the one who shuts MVP up once and for all.

CM Punk storms off to an average pop from the livid crowd.

Michael Cole: In just a few minutes we have the United States Championship on the line, but right now, we're going to take just a brief look at the matches SmackDown is hosting at WrestleMania, and depending on what happens later tonight, there could be another one added to the current list.

Tazz: That's right, 'cause if America's Most Wanted do manage to pick up the win tonight, they get what they feel is their rightfully deserved shots at the WWE Tag Team Championship.

Michael Cole: Speaking of championships, what about this match, Tazz?

The tron shows the Triple Threat Match for the Cruiserweight Championship

Michael Cole: SmackDown's high-flyers will get it on for the currently vacated Cruiserweight Championship, and Tazz, judging by what we've seen over the past few weeks, all three men have an equal shot at leaving with the gold.

Tazz: I dunno Cole, I'm bettin' my money on the Mexican Warrior, Chavo Guerrero. This guy has won the title on five different occasions, making him a favourite.

Michael Cole: I say Jimmy Wang Yang has a shot, and he's never been Cruiserweight Champion.

Tazz: Hey, I'm not saying Yang or Noble don't have a shot, but I just have a feeling it'll be Chavo's night.

The tron shows JBL vs. Rey Mysterio

Michael Cole: Here is what could possibly be the biggest grudge match that we have ever seen. The hatred between JBL and Rey Mysterio is extremely well documented, and everything the rivalry they've shared the past few years will butt heads in nine nights from now.

Tazz: I'm lookin' forward to this match, Cole. You got JBL, a ground and pound Texan who's now as rich as ever livin' the life in New York, but then there's Rey Mysterio, quite possibly the best athlete in the WWE who has his own high-flying style. Boy, I can hardly wait.

The tron shows Batista vs. Edge for the World Heavyweight Championship

Michael Cole: And what about this match? Batista defends his coveted World Title against the 2008 Royal Rumble winner ... Edge.

Tazz: Oh baby, I mean, hell, I thought JBL vs. Rey Mysterio was gonna be good, but when you put these two amazing performers in the main event of WrestleMania with the World Heavyweight Championship in the mix, well, you can't get any better than that!

Michael Cole: Another well documented rivalry that is sure to bring a great deal of excitement to the fans in the Citrus Bowl on March 30th.

Match 3
United States Champion
MVP (c) vs. CM Punk
These two young studs put on a fantastic match, one that many in attendance, and watching on television, will remember for a great deal of time. Punk finds his groove at the beginning by hitting well-placed kicks to MVP's leg, the same one that was 'injured'. MVP sells the leg perfectly as Punk goes to work on it, only to have MVP drop toe hold him into the second turnbuckle padding. MVP tries to gain the slightest advantage, but unfortunately, Punk has different ideas, and dishes the champ to the outside. Moments later, Punk climbs up to the top turnbuckle, and then leaps to the outside - taking MVP down with a Splash!! At this point in time, we go to a commercial break, and when we come back, it's MVP who's in control as he delivers a Scoop Slam, still selling the knee as it gives way a little. Less than a min spine. Both men eventually get up as The Straightedged Sueprstar takes advantage of his agility by taking Mr. Prime Time down with a series of clotheslines and lariats. Punk follows things up with a well-planted Spinebuster, but only gets a two count. Punk then goes for a Big Back Body Drop but MVP kicks him right in the jaw, and then goes for the Playmaker!! However, Punk counters, and sets MVP up for the Go to Sleep!! This time MVP counters by grabbing the ropes and pulling himself out onto the apron. Punk blocks a right hand, before hitting a right hand of his own, and then setting Porter up for a Suplex. MVP manages to counter in mid-air by slipping out and then rolling up Punk, before stacking his feet on the ropes to get the three!
Winner via pinfall at 11:40; MVP

MVP gets up and is immediately handed his title as he staggers over to the ropes and holds it up with one hand. In
disbelief, Punk remains on one knee and looks on as MVP climbs up on the turnbuckle to celebrate. When MVP gets down, he turns around, only to have CM Punk greet him by lifting him up onto his shoulders, and then connecting with the Go to Sleep! The fans cheer as Punk picks up the United States Championship and holds it up, before getting down in
MVP's face and yelling. Punk takes one final look at the title, before slamming it down onto MVP's chest and exiting the ring.

Edge is seen pacing in his locker room, dressed in casual clothes for The Cutting Edge, which is to take place later
tonight. Edge is trying to be his own therapist in an attempt to calm himself down.

Edge: It's okay ... don't worry, everything's gonna be fine. Batista ... Batista, he's nothing ... ... nothing. I won the Royal Rumble, didn't I? I beat the Undertaker to keep that spot, didn't I? I aided and watched Batista get pinned at
Saturday Night's Main Event, didn't I? Yeah ... ... (getting some reassurance) ... yeah, I did. I did all of those things, but did Batista? ... ... (realizes Batista has won the Royal Rumble and went to the Main event of WrestleMania) ... It doesn't matter. Don't worry, it doesn't matter. Sure, Batista did most of those things, but when was that? Ages ago, whereas I have done all of those things in the past two months. The past two months!! Batista can't top that ... no ... hell no! I had my reasons to attack Batista ... he didn't deserve my trust, now did he?

Edge is now looking in the mirror

Edge: No, of course not, he doesn't deserve anything from me. But when he cost me my match out of revenge, REVENGE ... ... there'll be hell to pay. You got this, oh, do you got this. You are gonna go into WrestleMania a challenge, but will walk out as a champion, and then ... ... you will have finally slayed the Animal known as Batista.

Edge puts on a big grin and adjusts his clothes while still looking in the mirror.

{Commercials}

Match 4
Victoria vs. Ashley
Victoria lives up to her word every bit in this contest, with the Reign of Dominance carrying on. Throughout the short
contest, Ashley hits a few punches here and there, much to the delight of a fan named Stratus at ringside {}, but unfortunately, it just isn't enough, as Victoria puts the former Playboy Cover Girl away with the Widow's Peak.
Winner via pinfall at 3:07; Victoria

Victoria rises to her feet and stares down several members of the crowd after he dominating victory. Moments later, she is joined by Melina, who is applauding Victoria with a big smile on her face. Melina raises Victoria's hand, who still is looking quite evil.

Backstage, Ric Flair is walking down a hallway to an enormous pop from the crowd. Flair has a duffel bag over his shoulder, signaling he's leaving for the night. However, Flair's plans are quite short as he runs into the World Heavyweight Champion, Batista, to a fantastic pop

Ric Flair: Well if it isn't the man of the hour, the World Champ himself, big Dave Batista!!

Batista: Haha, that's me alright, Ric, so how ya' been?

Ric Flair: Never been better! And do you have any idea why? (Batista is all smiles and doesn't answer) It's because the Naitch is goin' to WrestleMania baby, WOOOO!!

The fans also scream "WOOOO!!" and cheer for the Nature Boy

Ric Flair: I'm gonna be in that Money in the Bank Match, and by god, I just got a feeling in my bones that I'm gonna leave with that briefcase, Dave. I still have one World Title run left in me, I know it, which brings me to you big man.

Batista: You're sayin' you wanna fight me for this right here?

Ric Flair: I'm sayin' that when you shut up that piece of no good back-stabbin' waste of your time Edge! ...

Large pop

Ric Flair: ... And when I pin one of those five youngsters who think they can pull one over on the Naitch!! ... you and I are gonna meet in the center of that ring one day, Dave, oh can I feel it! I know it's gonna happen, and when it does, we are gonna go out there and steal the show, you with me?

Batista: I'm all for that, but keep in mind, when that does happen, I'm not going easy on you...

Ric Flair: I don't want you to go easy on me. I'm gonna beat your ass down to earn that belt, not let you lay down for me, damnit!! So you hold your end of the deal, and I'll hold mine, and then we'll lock horns ... student versus teacher.

Batista: I'm ready for that.

The two have a friendly handshake, before Flair releases his grip and walks past Batista as The Animal looks on in confusion

Ric Flair: WOOOOO!!

Like usual, the fans imitate their idol, Ric Flair.

{Commercials}

Match 5
Six-Person Intergender Tag Team Match
America's Most Wanted & Gail Kim vs. Deuce, Domino & Cherry
With a tag team title shot hanging in the balance, America's Most Wanted put forth their most valiant effort that they have shown during their time on SmackDown. Most of the match sees the two teams doing the wrestling, as Gail Kim and Cherry stand on the apron and encourage their partners. The men go at it for about ten minutes or so, with some extremely well thought out tag team wrestling that shows they have great chemistry. James Storm and Deuce end up in the ring, and the two take part in some good back and forth action, with Deuce getting the better of the situation. However, out of pure desperation, Storm blocks a Superplex by pushing Deuce off of the top rope, before connecting with a Flying Clothesline. Both men are now down as the crowd clap quicker and quicker, hoping to give them the
encouragement to make the tag. Eventually, both men get to their corners ... And tag in the women!! Gail Kim enters the ring immediately as Cherry, not sure what to do, just stays on the apron. Kim puts a stop to that as she storms over to Cherry, grabs her by the hair, and pulls her in the ring to a good pop. Kim helps her up and throws her
into the ropes, and when she comes back, Gail Kim takes her down with a Lou Thesz Press that involves some hard punches to the head. Gail Kim continues to throw Cherry around and teach her a lesson - Don't cost America's Most Wanted a title match. However, Kim is put to a halt when she's on top of Cherry in the turnbuckle and punching her, as Domino heads towards her, and pulls her down onto the top rope, throat first. The referee yells at Domino, and with his back turned, Deuce enters the ring, lining up Cherry, butn instead, is hit with the Last Call from Storm! Storm exits the ring as both Kim and Cherry get up, only for Cherry to miss a clothesline and have Gail Kim roll her up for the three.
Winners via pinfall at 13:17 ; America's Most Wanted & Gail Kim
{America's Most Wanted get WWE Tag Title shot at WrestleMania}

James Storm and Chris Harris join Gail Kim as the three of them celebrate the victory. Storm and Harris signal they
want the title belts as Deuce, Domino, and Cherry all head up the ramp with their belts, looking angered that they will have to defend their titles against America's Most Wanted at WrestleMania.

{Commercials}

The ring is already set up for quite frankly the greatest talk show in the WWE today, The Cutting Edge. Moments later,
"Metalingus" plays, and in a matter of moments, the Rated R Superstar, Edge, struts out onto the stage to a large amount of heat. Dressed in casual clothes and looking surprisngly happy, The Ultimate Opportunist makes his way down the ramp to the ring where he taunts on the turnbuckle, takes off his shades, before hopping down and picking a
microphone up off of one of the two stools set up in the ring. Edge is quite happy.

Edge: It-it's hard to express the mixed emotions I'm going through right now ... that I've been feeling ever since the Royal Rumble, when I found out that my dream would come true, as I will get to compete in the main event of WrestleMania ... WRESTLEMANIA! ... for the World Heavyweight Championship. And y'know, while I'm at it, I thought I might actually do something nice for the fans. And that something is slaying the Animal, better known as Batista!

Decent amount of heat

Edge: I really don't understand half of what goes on anymore. Here I am, ready to do something nice, sincere, something that will rid you of the man who is bringing this show down in ratings by holding the World Title, and yet you still disapprove of me, my actions, my personality. What more do you want? Injure Batista? End his career? Because if so, you should be thanking me, 'cause it's all covered. None of us back in the locker room will have to worry about that joker anymore. And the sad part of it all ... ... ... he's my guest here tonight on the Cutting Edge.

Small pop

Edge: Now before we get into things, I thought I'd give another gesture of kindness, (to himself) how nice of me, and let you all once again know exactly what happens here on the Cutting Edge. Yours truly comes out here and talks about my guest, gives you a little heads up about any precautions, informs you how much more better I am than this person, and then let them come out here for me to interview them. But unlike any other show, the Highlight Reel, the Peep Show ... ... this is Rated R ... ... ... the Rated R Era, of which you all will breathe in come March 30th when I finally get back on top by winning the World Heavyweight Championship.

The fans boo as Edge looks up to the ceiling in delight and breathes in the air around him. That is, until Edge realizes something.

Edge: Wait a minute, I've just remembered that there might be a bit of a problem, an unfortunate problem. You see, this past Saturday I did what I had to do, which was turning my back on Batista.

Large amount of heat

Edge: So then this past Monday Night on Raw, Batista had to get 'even' with me, and by doing so, not only did he cost me my Hardcore Match with Mick Foley...

Edge is cut off by the fans as a majority of them start chanting "Fo-ley! Fo-ley!"

Edge: ... He also had this image in his mind that he had taught me some sort of lesson, some kind of, oh, I don't know ... statement. Of course, when Batista does saunter on out here, I'll need some confirmation on that, but no worries, we'll get some. Now for those of you, including Batista, who really did think costing me a match taught me a lesson, (chuckles) well, let me be the first to assure you that you are way wrong, and by getting involved with the Rated R Superstar, you awoke someone new. Not someone angry, not someone determined, but someone ... someone delighted. Someone with a new goal, and that goal ... free my SmackDown kingdom of it's hobo jester, who quite frankly, is wearing my crown on that thick skull of his.

Small amount of heat

Edge: But with all that aside, tonight, I'm gonna be the professional that I am. I'm a superstar, not a whiner. I am champion, not a challenge. And quite frankly, I'm the leader of this brand, and the only role model that has ever stepped
foot inside of this very ring. So without further notice, your World Heavyweight Champion ... ... Batista!

The
fans explode into a tremendous pop as "I Walk Alone" blares on the PA
system. Batista races out onto the stage in a casual suit, looking as
pumped up as ever. Batista does his signature actions at the top of the
ramp, causing fireworks to blast everywhere, before proceeding down the
ramp, and just like Edge, he has a wide smile on his face.

Edge: Batista, Batista ... take a
seat. (Batista simply ignores Edge) ... I told you to take a seat.
(Batista looks at Edge like he's stupid) TAKE A GOD DAMN SEAT!!!

Batista mouths the word "fine," before sitting on the stool and taking the microphone as Edge sits on his own stool

Edge: Like I said before you made your presence, Dave...

Batista: (sternly) It's Batista.

Edge gulps as a few fans cheer

Edge: Ok then, Batista, so as I was saying before you rudly interupted the host, which may I remind you is something you don't do on my
talk show, I'm a professional, and seeing as this is where I'm supposed
to interview you, I'll do just that, ok? Now first up, I was wondering,
what were your intentions to cost me my match against Mick Foley? I
mean, let's face it, you lost your match to Triple H fair and square,
so for you to just barge in on me when I was in my ring ... that's low
class, I'm afraid.

A few boos are heard.

Batista: Edge, it's clear to me that
you're interviewing skills are low class ... ... I'm afraid. But if you
really want an answer, then fine, you'll get an answer.

Small pop.

Batista: The funny thing is, you're
implying that I had no reason to attack you, whereas I believe, and am
implying, the complete opposite. It's like you mentioned there,
'challenger'. You screwed me, hell, us, over at Saturday Night's Main
Event. I was gonna get the win for the team, but that didn't settle too
well with you, so you cost me a win, I cost you a win. That good enough
for you?

Edge: (A little annoyed, but almost
mocking) Yeah, yeah, that's just great Batista. Your answers would
really delight me, but unfortunately, they don't, and you have any idea
why that is? Maybe it's because you're a show champion. You have any
idea what that is? ... ... I didn't think so. What it means, is that
you say what these people want, which as both you and I know ... isn't
the truth.

Heat for the Master Manipulator

Edge: Enough of the hate, damnit! There will be no booing for the host on the Cutting Edge? You got that?!!

Even more heat as Edge stands up to protest his anger

Edge: I don't think you understand.
It doesn't matter how much you paid for your tickets. I don't care how
much you paid (gesturing to someone in the front row), or how much you
paid (gesturing to someone in the 100 section), or even how much the
losers up there paid (gesutring to the nosebleed section). I just don't
care anymore, because no matter the price of admission, you hand
yourselves over to me when it's my time in the ring, and same goes for
you Batista. When you are privileged enough to be in the ring, hell, my
ring for the Cutting Edge, you make the most of that opportunity, just
like I'm gonna do in Orlando, Florida when I take the World Title from
you. Got that?

Batista doesn't respond, but simply chuckles as Edge is furious

Edge: I said ... GOT THAT?!!

Edge gets up right up in Batista's face.

Batista: I got it, Edge, oh yeah, I
got it. And you know what else I've got? A fist that's ready to drive
through that thick, black-clouded skull of yours.

The fans cheer as Batista holds up his fist, now standing, ready to strike Edge.

Edge: No, no, no! You don't threaten
me about anything. If that's how you show your admiriation for
SmackDown's role model, you've got it all wrong. I'm the one who's a
twelve time tag team champion. I'm the one who was victorious in the
first ever Money in the Bank Ladder Match. I'm the one who just won the
Royal Rumble, and I'm the one...

Batista: (ticked) Who needs to shut up for once in his god damn egotistical lifestyle!!

Decent pop

Batista: I'm done with it. I'm done
with all this senseless crap you've invited me for, now do you got
that? I didn't want to be on this overrated, over-hyped talk show to
begin with. (Mocking voice) "The Cutting Edge." That's original, isn't
it? But I'll tell you this - Your show wouldn't be half bad if you took
a moment, just one tiny little moment, to open up your eyes, look
around, and see that these people want some respect, Edge...

Small pop

Batista: And if you don't give them
any, whether you think they deserve it or not, your not going anywhere
with my World Title. And you're not going anywhere with your career.
But where you are going, is WrestleMania on March 30th, correct? But
once you get there, see how much respect you'll get from the fans, the
locker room, whoever ... When you embarass your ass on the Grandest
Stage of 'Em All by stepping into the ring with me ... ... and getting
your ass whooped!

The fans cheer Batista on as he unleashes some better microphone skills than what we've seen in the past

Batista: I'm not gonna get myself
disqualified or counted out to keep this title right here where it is,
the title I worked so hard for, nor am I going to submit you. But what
I am going to do, is unleash the anger that's been boiling up inside
... on you.

More pops for The Animal

Batista: I am going to pull out every
single move from my arsenal, and even more, just to make sure you
realize what exactly you've gotten yourself into, and maybe then, your
eyes might open for that split-second and give someone, SOMEONE ... ...
some respect. And if that does happen, you'll earn the respect of me,
but if you want to at least have some chance of not getting your ass
kicked at WrestleMania, now's the time to get the respect of me.

Batista extends his hand, just like he did several weeks ago where he Spinebustered Edge as Edge looks at it cautiously.

Edge: You want me to gain your respect? And you want my respect? ... ... (sighs) Fine, you can have it.

Edge shakes Batista's hand as the two pull in
closer and have a nose to nose staredown. Edge backs up a little bit as
Batista uses his intimidation skills.

Batista: WrestleMania ... ... the
Main Event ... World Heavyweight Championship, Edge versus Batista ...
... ... I'm gonna steal the show ... ... alone.

Batista smiles as Edge looks a little
intimidated. Batista's music plays as he and Edge have some brief
exchanges in the ring, before Edge slowly and unsurely exits the ring
and begins his journey up the ramp, still making eye contact with
Batista, and still looking somewhat scared of The Animal.

END OF SHOW



***




WrestleMania 24
Date: March 30th, 2008
Location: Citrus Bowl; Orlando Florida
Event Music: Snow (Hey Oh!); Red Hot Chili Peppers
Take Me Away; Lifehouse

---


WWE Championship
'The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels (c) vs. 'The Phenom' Undertaker


World Heavyweight Championship
'The Animal' Batista (c) vs. 2008 Royal Rumble Winner 'The Rated R Superstar' Edge

---


Legend vs. Legend Killer
'Stone Cold' Steve Austin vs. 'The Legend Killer' Randy Orton


One on One
'The Wrestling God' JBL vs. 'The Master of the 619' Rey Mysterio


Last Man Standing
'The Saviour' Chris Jericho vs. 'The Big Red Machine' Kane


Tag Team Match
'The Upstart' Mr. Kennedy & Shane McMahon w/Vince McMahon & Stephanie McMahon vs. 'The Game' Triple H & 'The Great One' The Rock

---


Cruiserweight Championship; Triple Threat
'The Pitbull' Jamie Noble vs. 'The Resident Redneck' Jimmy Wang Yang vs. 'The Mexican Warrior' Chavo Guerrero


WWE Women's Championship
Mickie James (c) vs. 'The Paparazzi Princess' Melina


6 Man Money in the Bank Match
Bobby Lashley vs. MVP vs. Christian vs. CM Punk vs. Umaga vs. Ric Flair


Tag Team Match
'The Cool Combo' Carlito & John Morrison vs. 'The Daredevils of the WWE' The Hardys


WWE Tag Team Championship
'The Greasers' Deuce 'n' Domino (c) w/Cherry vs. America's Most Wanted w/Gail Kim

***

Good that you posted these two shows that you've posted on the other forum. Mania is going to be awesome, and possible the biggest PPV that will be on this forum in a long time.