Episode 22 - Summerslam

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Summerslam, WWE's Biggest Party of the Summer!"

"No doubt, Cole! SmackDown's representing tonight in LA. It's hot, but I got a feeling the action from the SmackDown superstars is going to be even hotter!"

"I couldn't agree more, partner. Despite their personal disagreements, I'm sure the SmackDown! roster will inadvertently band together and put on a great show! Speaking of which, SmackDown! gets the first strike tonight."

"The following triple threat tornado tag team match is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WWE Tag Team Championship!" Tony Chimel enthusiastically explains to the hyper audience.

Carlito & Chris 'The Masterpiece' Masters, Rob Van Dam & Booker T and Chris Jericho & Christian all make their way down to the ring for what promises to be a high-spirited bout, with all 3 teams vying for the shimmering silver and blue championship belts!

In the heat of the moment, chaos ensues and all 6 men are battling to and fro in the ring.

The referee has his hands full and then some as Chris Jericho is cinched in the Masterlock by The Masterpiece, who is chipped and knocked out of the ring by a kick from Booker T, who in turn gets clotheslined over the top rope by Christian.

Before he can aid Jericho, Captain Charisma is blindsided by a retaliatory cross body press by Booker's partner, RVD, that sends them both flying to the outside. Amidst the craziness, Jericho recovers, but is nailed by the Backstabber courtesy of Carlito, for the decisive 3 count, as Stacy Keibler hops up in joy from her safe location between Michael Cole & Tazz.

"Well, your guys did it. Impressive stuff, Miss, uh, Keibler. Thanks for stopping by," Tazz remarks with a chuckle as the leggy manager for the opportunistic champions takes the titles over to the victors.

Backstage, a close-up of a massive bicep reveals the #1 Contender for the World Heavyweight Championship, the Animal, Batista, who is brooding with hunger to devour the elusive title. The camera cuts to Edge, who is standing with Lita, ready to be interviewed by Josh Matthews.

"Edge, tonight you'll be facing the Animal, Batista, but you've managed to make it a Tables, Ladders & Chairs match, a match that you made famous. Do you believe it will affect the outcome and more importantly, your reign as World Heavyweight Champion?"

"You said it yourself, Josh. This is MY match. This is MY woman," Edge begins, squeezing Lita beside him. "And THIS is my championship. Nobody's taking it away from me. Especially not some clumsy 'animal' like Batista." Edge coldly states, belittling his opponent, gesturing quotation marks with his fingers. "Batista has always been chasing the title. But me? I took the title. And I'm going to keep it. Tonight? Well, Batista can look forward to chasing this baby a bit longer. See ya."

The Rated R Superstar struts off screen with Lita in tow. The crowd boos, but Edge's cockiness can't be denied.

The bell rings again, and this time, it's for the triple threat match for the United States Championship. A video shows the beating of Kurt Angle, courtesy of the brief partnership of Kane & The Big Show before the lust of championship gold made them part ways. How is Kurt Angle going to overcome such great odds? The same way he won the Olympics with a broken freakin' neck!

The United States Champion enters the ring first, patriotic-themed fireworks spouting from the stage.

"Well, here comes the champion. I have to admit, Tazz, I don't see Angle walking out with the title tonight."

"Bah, Cole! Did you not just hear the promo? Kurt's defied the odds before. My money's on the wrestling machine! He's gonna run circles around Kane & The Big Slow tonight!"

But Michael Cole is proven right. While Angle combats and endures the onslaught of the two giants well, he is dispatched from the ring and a chokeslam on Big Show from the Big Red Monster wows the crowd, shakes the mat, and earns the diabolical Kane the coveted United States Championship. Angle is left in disarray as the Staples Center falls into crimson dominion.

Backstage, John Cena is seen applying the rest of his ring gear, greeted by a storm of boos and cheers. "There's the controversial man that will enter Hell tonight and clash with the caged viper, Randy Orton."

"Cena's ready for it, Cole. And I guarantee that cell up there is ready for 'em too."

Meanwhile, a video plays showing Edge's sniveling nature as he's managed to elude the wrath of Batista since provoking the #1 Contender with a shot by the title belt. It's all going to be settled tonight, but only by Edge's stipulation as ladders, tables, chairs and the crowd's excitement surround the squared circle.

YOU THINK YOU KNOW ME?

"I'm telling you, Cole, Edge better climb a ladder to heaven right now. Cause Batista is going to tear him apart."

"I think you're wrong, Tazz. Edge knows this match like the back of his hand. Plus, he managed to leave The Bash with that coveted World Championship still around his waist."

"True, true, Cole, but you can only kick a wild beast so many times before it rips your head off."

Tazz's knowing words seem to epitomize the brutal slaying of Edge, who is ultimately driven through a table, via a thunderous Batista Bomb, by the hungry challenger, who becomes tempered even worse by repeated attacks from chairs and ladders. Even Lita is unable to avoid the Animal's wrath as she is driven through a table that is all her own, courtesy of an effortless spinebuster by the new, and long awaited, World Champion, the Animal, Batista.

"Well, this has certainly been a long time coming. Batista has finally silenced all of SmackDown!, including General Manager, Theodore Long, and has reached the top of the WWE Universe. One can only imagine what's next for the Animal…"

Perhaps, what's next for Batista might be the victor of the highly anticipated Hell…in…a…Cell match.



Both Randy Orton and John Cena saunter their way down to the devilish structure meant to rip flesh and shatter bone. The ominous atmosphere has been well established. As both men enter the ring, they become prisoners of the steel cage that immediately fuels their rage towards each other.

Steel steps, the surrounding mesh, the ring posts, steel chairs and blood are laid to waste at ringside, perhaps along with what might've used to be the promising careers of these two talents. Their hostile intent toward one another reigns supreme amidst the dark structure, as harsh blow after blow shocks the bloodthirsty crowd.

Somehow, the Hell in a Cell can't contain their animosity and Cena winds up flipping Orton off the security barricade, as the Legend Killer splashes through Cole & Tazz's ringside table. A mixed reaction from the crowd leaves Orton crippled and Cena defiant of his haters. Subconsciously thankful for Cena's distracted tarrying, Orton kicks out but is shoved back inside of the demonic institution.

"RKO! THE VIPER STRIKES OUT OF NOWHERE!"

Cole blurts out as Orton catches Cena off-guard as he enters the ring in chase of his wily adversary. It renders a two count for the Legend Killer, the man that is hell bent on making sure no legend of John Cena is ever created. He is going to do so tonight…unless Cena makes sure otherwise.

"CENA COUNTERS! CENA COUNTERS!"

"WHAT'S HE THINKING, COLE? THE HELL?"

"FU OFF THE TOP ROPE!"

Cole bellows in response to a failed RKO attempt by Orton that was transitioned into a fireman's carry by Cena as he ominously climbed the turnbuckle with all of the Viper's weight on his shoulders.

Despite popular assumption, Cena doesn't go for the cover. Instead, he chokes out Orton with the STFU. Orton doesn't tap out, but the referee ends the match, lifting Orton's limp arm for a final 3rd time, as he fails to answer the referee's count.

John Cena exits the ring after taking a long moment to reflect on what he'd just endured and what it means going forward in his career on SmackDown! He squashes the haters by climbing all the way up to the top of the Cell and gesturing to his loyal Chain Gang, as Orton is still motionless in the ring.

Pre-Show @ Summerslam

The WWE Intro plays, followed by Todd Grisham, who is hosting a preview for WWE Summerslam.

"We are just a little under 15 minutes away from the biggest party of the summer, WWE Summerslam, as it kicks off live tonight from Los Angeles, California.

Now, seeing as both brands will be vying for the best performances tonight, we will now take a look at the SmackDown! side of things for tonight's pay-per-view.

It all starts at SmackDown's last exclusive pay-per-view, The Bash, when Kurt Angle defeated Muhammad Hassan in a steel cage match to win the United States Championship. The Olympic Gold Medalist breezed through his opponent then, but since he's been having trouble overcoming the onslaught from both Kane, the Big Red Monster, and Big Show, the Largest Athlete in the World.

This ugly feud was sparked by the betrayal of Big Show when he shocked the WWE Universe and joined up with Kane to take out the United States Champion. Since that point, the two big men have been tussling back and forth with the American Hero, and also breaking apart several WWE superstars in the process.

Before long, the prestige of the US Title created a rift between Big Show and Kane, introducing a new dynamic into the scenario. It all comes to a head tonight, but can Kurt Angle retain the championship that fits his character like a glove, when he defends the United States Title against not just Kane, but the Big Show, as well, in a triple threat match tonight at Summerslam, the biggest party of the summer? That awaits to be seen.

Not to be ignored, the World Heavyweight Championship match between recent opportunistic champion, the Rated R Superstar, Edge, and his lovely vixen, Lita, and the animal who always seem to be eluded by the title, Batista. Two weeks after The Bash, Edge struck Batista with the championship gold right between the eyes. Since, well, the Animal has been on a warpath. He's slammed Edge through a table and even power-bombed Edge's devilish aid, Lita.

For someone that has continually failed to grasp the top prize of SmackDown!, can Batista finally silence the critics and overcome Edge (and Lita) in what has proven to be a landmark match in the career of the Rated R Superstar?

We'll shortly find out in a Tables, Ladders & Chairs match as the two top dogs of SmackDown! collide tonight at Summerslam, the biggest party of the summer. But what has most fans reeling with excitement has to be…

The Hell in a Cell match between John Cena and Randy Orton. These two men clearly hate each other's guts. Ever since John Cena was acquired from RAW, it hasn't well with the Legend Killer, who has become more vicious every week after Cena's arrival on SmackDown!, the show Randy Orton claims as his property. John Cena is in his way of the championship gold, but Cena has yet to back down from a fight with the 3rd generation superstar. This past week on SmackDown!, things nearly exploded between the two hot-blooded talents."

A video shows the no holds barred match between Orton and Cena, how both men were incapacitated after stalemating with an RKO and FU, as they both went crashing down through the Spanish announcing table at ringside.

Without a doubt, the Hell in a Cell match is the only way these two can end their bitter war with one another. It, and many other thrilling matches, can be seen tonight at WWE's biggest party of the summer… Summerslam!

And Summerslam? Well, it's next.

Episode 21 - Bitter Escalation

The WWE intro plays, followed by:



Welcome to SmackDown!

A graphic shows the returning Chris Jericho slated to face The Undertaker, and more importantly, the main event, a culmination of the intense altercation between John Cena and Randy Orton last week. But first...

GO! IF YOU CLOSE YOUR EYES...

"Nice to see Christian back in action tonight, Cole!"

I SPIT IN THE FACE OF PEOPLE WHO DON'T WANT TO BE COOL.

The two young combatants clash, putting on a breathtaking opener that concludes with a pair of boots to Carlito's face, a reverse elbow from the top rope, followed by a big splash from the adjacent turnbuckle as Captain Charisma charms his peeps with the victory, despite the delightful presence of Stacy Keibler at ringside who is left to look on as one half of the tag champions is beaten before her eyes.

Backstage, John Cena is greeted with a mixed reaction by the crowd and Josh Matthews asks him how he feels about tonight's match with Orton.

"My name is John Cena," he states and receives some boos in doing so. "Clearly, a lot of emotion is carried with that name. But I didn't come to SmackDown! to make friends. I'm here to represent the Chain Gang, represent what I stand for, and someday soon put some gold on my shoulder. If Orton doesn't like my presence on 'his show', then tonight I'll just have to teach him about hustle…loyalty…and respect before I can go about my ways. It was nice talking to ya, Josh." Cena appears to walk off screen, but immediately returns and speaks into the microphone, but his eyes are clearly in search of something else. "Oh, and Randy… you can't see me!" Cena waves his hand in front of the camera, the Chain Gang battles boos with their own cheers, as the screen fades to black.

As SmackDown! returns, the arena is drenched in macabre gloom. It's The Undertaker. And his dark entrance is contrasted thunderously by the epic return of Chris Jericho, who, surprisingly, is heavily cheered.

Jericho seeks to outmaneuver the Deadman, but gets punished in the early going for his efforts. This includes the Phenom gliding on the top rope and crashing down onto Jericho with a clothesline. "Undertaker taking Y2J to school here tonight. | Yeah, 'Old School', Cole!"

Before long, Jericho realizes the odds do not fall in his favor and slips in a low blow behind the referee's back, using it to drive the Deadman's face into the mat and follow it up with the Lionsault for a 2 count. It is clear that Undertaker is barely phased by Jericho's despicable actions and whacks him in the chest with a big boot. Preparing for a Choke Slam, the Demon from Death Valley devilishly wiggles his fingers in anticipation and easily lifts his lighter foe high into the air, aiming to spike him back down to the canvas without remorse.

"CODEBREAKER! CODEBREAKER! | OH MY GAWD, COLE!"

Both men are motionless for a few moments. The crowd is on the edge of its collective seat. Jericho weakly makes a pin attempt...

But The Undertaker powers out at the last second. Always the opportunist, Jericho tries to move faster than the Phenom can recover. He catapults himself off the ropes, aiming for a second Lionsault, but gets caught and planted with the Tombstone Piledriver. Yet... Jericho is too close to the ropes and barely sneaks his foot onto the bottom rope, despite being nearly incapacitated by the usually deafening blow.

THIS - IS - AWESOME!

"My sentiments exactly," Tazz responds to the crowd's chant.

The Phenom has had enough of Jericho's squirming. He raises an arm, signaling a familiar omen to the split crowd.

Jericho is yanked back up to his feet and thrown between the Deadman's mighty legs. He lifts Jericho onto his shoulders and drives him down...

"LAST RIDE!"

"NO, CODEBREAKER! CODEBREAKER!

"HOW THE HELL DID JERICO DO THAT?"

"A SECOND CODEBREAKER!

While the replay shows Jericho frantically moving his leg, placing his knee on Undertaker's face, as they fall during the Last Ride...

JERICHO WINS!

The Highlight of the Night embraces the crowd and melts in their approving chant of "Y2J...Y2J...Y2J."



A replay of the tag team championship match last week on SmackDown! plays, showing the abrupt end of Booker T & Rob Van Dam's title reign.

Can You Dig It, Sucka?!

Booker T makes his way down to the ring, sore from the loss, but still reacting warmly to the fans.

A second replay shows the betrayal from Big Show and how he formed a partnership with Kane as they beat down Kurt Angle last week.

Booker T pours on the attack, but it has little effect on the Big Show, who lands a crushing body press slam and ends the match with the Show Stopper. Kane makes his way down to the ring and the two towers look to beat down another SmackDown! superstar. But Rob Van Dam, Booker T's tag team partner, runs down to the ring, kicking wildly to defend his buddy, before being overpowered.

"It's Kurt Angle!"

The bruised US Champion enters the fray, outnumbering the two mammoths, and nailing Kane with the Angle Slam. The trio seek to batter Big Show next but he shoves them off, shocking the whole arena.

Teddy Long, GM of SmackDown!, appears on the overhead screen, saying that if Kane is so eager to get action, he can be part of a tag team match tonight. It will be Kane, teaming up with the World Champion, Edge, set to face the man he helped pummel last week, the United States Champion, Kurt Angle. Long mentions to RVD that he did a good thing by helping his partner, but should focus on his own match...next.

A commercial break later, the Masterpiece hulks his way down to the ring with Stacy Keibler at his side, hoping to win where Carlito could not tonight in his match with Mr. Thursday Night.

After the scuffle with Kane & Big Show, Rob Van Dam is unable to withstand the powerful assault of Masters, who subdues the Whole Dam Show with a running powerslam.

The mood clearly in need of brightness, the crowd is ecstatic when it learns of a Playboy Cover Girl Pajama Pillow Fight Match set to begin between Torrie Wilson and Christy Hemme!

The two scintillating divas wow the crowd in so-short sleepwear. Before long, Christy bounces on a bed that has been put in the center of the ring and swings her pillow at Torrie, who hops on the bed. The two engage in a sensational pillow fight that arouses many a flash bulb from cameras in the crowd. After getting whacked, Torrie kicks Christy in the stomach. Her nightshirt rises above her waist, delighting the crowd, but she gets planted with a facebuster on the bed as pillows are thrown into the air from the impact. Torrie picks up the win, but both women roll around bitterly with one another, but also with a playful quality.

...Until Edge & Lita ruin the party. "Get outta here, bimbos! Adios!" Lita spats at the scantily clad duo. Edge topples the bed and paces impatiently around the ring, chucking a pillow into the crowd as Kane's entrance engulfs the arena in a fiery gloom. A bit intimidated, Edge keeps his distance from his partner as Kurt Angle & Batista enter the ring. In the early going, Kane harshly smacks Edge's back, tagging himself in. The champion winces and is befuddled for a moment as he cautiously exits the ring, glad to be out of the action but also affronted by the gesture.

Midway through the bout, Edge nails Batista with the title belt on the outside of the ring. The referee doesn't see it, but Edge returns to the ring and spears Angle who has tried to power up against a fallen Kane. Edge earns the victory, but Lita has a steel chair in hand. She gives it to Edge, and as Kane recovers, the World Champion declares his territory and nearly decapitates the Big Red Monster.

"Damn, Cole! Edge is definitely not making any friends on SmackDown! Got some balls, though!" "True enough, partner. Edge sending a message to everyone that he's the champion and wants to keep things that way." "No doubt, Cole. That's what I did in my ECW days. You can't let anyone punk you out."

"I think it's safe to say that John Cena shares a similar mindset, partner. Earlier tonight, Cena had this to say about Randy Orton."

After the replay, the Legend Killer is seen slithering backstage, ready for the anticipated clash with John Cena.

As SmackDown! returns, a brutal brawl transpires between Orton & Cena. It's clear they don't like each other. And after the events of last week, the animosity has only escalated. Randy Orton tries his finishing maneuver on Cena from the top rope, running up the turnbuckle with Cena's head cradled in his tattooed arms, but Cena uses his strength to toss Orton to the outside. The crowd is split, engaging in their own miniature war, but Orton's temper has won the internal battle.

He grabs a steel chair, returns to the ring, and swings for the fences. John Cena ducks and lifts Orton into the air, prepping the FU, but Orton has kept hold of the chair and jabs Cena with it. It's enough to get back onto his feet. With Cena's back turned, Randy throws down the chair between them and dips midair to deliver the RKO on top of it.

RK...Oh!

Orton writhes in pain as Cena throws him down on the chair, the pain shooting from Orton's back up to his neck, head, and shoulders. Meanwhile, Cena locks Orton up in the STFU. Half of the crowd being pro-Orton, the motion is greeted with a thunderbolt of boos, but Cena doesn't care. The referee drops to their knees, deliberating with Orton on whether he wants to submit, but the Legend Killer refuses...futilely. He succumbs to the pain after failing to grasp the ring ropes, delivering Cena the victory.

"Wow, what a match." Cole exclaims. "John Cena has to have gained a foothold in this bitter feud after that convincing win!" "No doubt about that, Cole. Great win for Cena. But you can hear this crowd. And the sick thing is, Orton doesn't need fan support to exact revenge."

As the show closes, Cena is seen on the stage, posing for the Chain Gang, as a livid and sweaty Orton slithers in the middle of the ring.

Episode 20 - SD! After The Bash

The WWE intro plays, followed by a new SmackDown! video that precedes a recap of The Bash!



"Welcome to SmackDown! Hot off The Bash, many a WWE superstar are looking to get back to the drawing board here tonight!"

"No doubt, Cole. Losers from last Sunday gotta be even hotter than SmackDown's newest divas, Torrie & Christy! Whoa, baby!"

The latest imports from RAW were a delight to see this past Sunday at The Bash, but SmackDown's ready to switch tones already with announcer Tony Chimel standing eagerly in the center of the ring! 'The following cruiserweight match is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first...'

The bell rings and Tajiri's music plays. The mysterious and straightforward Japanese Buzzsaw makes his way to the ring, followed by SmackDown's local neighborhood Hurricane!

STAND BACK! There's a hurricane coming through...

"I love it, Cole! Nice to see our resident superhero standing watch tonight!"

"But feast your eyes on what awaits the Hurricane, Tazz! Tajiri making his return after a long absence."

"Oh, yeah, Tajiri, he'll kick your damn head off, believe me. But I got faith in the Hurricane to blow past the Buzzsaw!"

In a fierce, quick-paced bout, Tajiri's vicious kicks threaten to whack the superhero out cold. But the Hurricane ducks a roundhouse and nails a sweeping neckbreaker slam for the 3 count.

**************************


Cameras backstage slowly climb the tantalizing legs of Stacy Keibler.

Carlito and Chris Masters are being graced by her presence while preparing for a shot at the tag team championship tonight. Carlito is eating a granny smith apple and the Masterpiece is exercising with resistance bands. "Guys, I know you can shock the WWE Universe tonight and walk away with the gold. The combination of power," Stacy eyes Masters, who smirks confidently, "and attitude," Stacy eyes Carlito, who nods and mutters something in Spanish, "along with my managerial services is going to give us all the tools we need to dethrone the tag team champions." Stacy is confident, too, as she smiles warmly at the auspicious duo.

The cameras transition to the locker room of the current tag team champions, Booker T and, Mr. Thursday Night, Rob...Van...Dam.

Booker T is sitting on a stool, putting on his ring gloves, and RVD is shadow boxing in the corner on the opposite side of the room. The coveted WWE Tag Team Championship hangs over locker doors between the effective and proven pair. "Yo, Rob, you and me? We're gonna electrify the crowd tonight!" Booker T's enthusiastic voice calls out to his concentrated partner, who nods, mid-combo, and reaffirms Booker's words with, "Hell yeah" in his sandy voice. After finishing the combo, Mr. Thursday Night calmly walks over to his partner, who has stood up, finished prepping and ready to mix it up in the ring.

"Tonight we're gonna prove that we don't need some hot manager to help us retain these titles." RVD gestures at the belts. "Damn straight," Booker exchanges in a deep voice. "All we need is the...wait, how many times were you WCW Champion again?" RVD smirks in jest at the fierce Houston native, who smiles back and holds out his hand, entranced momentarily by it. "5 time WCW Champ, man." Booker confidently reminds the calm highlight reel, nodding at him fiercely and slapping his chest. RVD chuckles, glad to see the fire that is smoldering inside of his partner tonight. "Right. Well, that, and--" The cocky superstar raises both arms and sticks out his thumbs, pointing at himself. "Rob...Van...Dam... is all we need to walk out with this gold tonight." He says, grabbing his title and handing the other to Booker T.

"Oh, man, Cole. The tag champs are ready, and so are the challengers! It's gonna be wicked!"

"I couldn't agree more, Tazz. And this fiery matchup is, well, it's up next!"


A commercial break later...




"Here come the champs, Cole!"

The energetic onslaught from the defending champions nearly consumes the challengers, who are busy working out the kinks and trying to discover flow as a team. A flash of hope arises when Rob Van Dam soars from the top rope, aiming a flying kick at the Masterpiece, but the larger superstar sidesteps and nearly chains Mr. Thursday Night in the Master Lock, before Van Dam scrambles to the ropes to prevent the hold.

The addition of Stacy Keibler at ringside is an encouraging one, and the turning point occurs when a hot tag leads to Carlito ducking a fierce kick by Booker T, whose long mean leg crashes into RVD's face instead. After Mr. Thursday Night falls out of the ring, Carlito and Booker T exchange blows until Booker T misses another kick, spins around from the momentum of the strike and gets planted with the Backstabber. As Carlito seeks the cover, RVD runs back in but is corralled by the Masterpiece and imprisoned in the Master Lock. Some of the crowd is booing at what this turn of events likely means. While the referee would like to have both illegal men out of the ring, the ref can't ignore the pin attempt and counts Booker T's shoulders for the 3 count.

Stacy celebrates at ringside and Tazz enjoys it, saying the conclusion to the match was a surprising one, but then again, that he saw it coming because the duo of Carlito & Masters, like Stacy had remarked earlier backstage, came to play tonight and are now walking out with something for their efforts. Meanwhile, the Masterpiece releases Van Dam, who slowly recovers in the center of the ring next to his fallen partner. Mr. Thursday Night is sorely clutching his neck at the hands of the Master Lock submission hold. There doesn't appear to be any bad blood between the two teams other than hot disappointment from the former champions as the new ones can't get enough of the win, especially Carlito, as Stacy Keibler holds up their arms to the crowd that is warming to the duo's victory.

Afterward, Carlito & Masters confidently stride up the ramp with a smiling Stacy somewhere in the middle as Carlito heckles indignantly at the fans.

***************************

A recap during the commercial break shows brief highlights from the steel cage match last Sunday at The Bash between Muhammad Hassan & Kurt Angle. As SmackDown! returns, olympic sounds triumphantly fill the arena as the new United States Champion proudly walks down to the ring to exceptional applause. In his wrestling attire, Kurt Angle grabs a microphone and smiles at the crowd, with the US Championship comfortably resting over his shoulder.

"When I entered the Olympic Games in 1996, I came to win and had my heart set on taking home some gold." Kurt begins speaking and lifts the gold medal around his neck a few inches from his chest. "And I succeeded. Last sunday at The Bash, things were no different." The cheers rise from the crowd. Angle flourishes the title belt and holds it up with both hands. The crowd applauds. After a celebratory moment, Kurt rests the belt back on his shoulder. "SmackDown! had a disgrace as the United States Champion until I set my eyes on changing things once again. And I did, when I made that son-of-a-bitch Muhammad Hassan tap out!"

The crowd cheers again. "Hassan was nothing but a joke. I sent that SOB packing. And tonight, I'm going to take down another one!" The crowd is left to wonder, as Angle prepares for his match. Michael Cole explains at ringside, showing a video of the feud between Kane & Big Show, how the Big Red Monster had been humiliating the giant until being chokeslammed off the stage at The Bash. This must be what Kurt was alluding to, how Big Show toyed around with Kane for weeks until finally seeking to end Kane's abuse.

WELL, IT'S THE BIG SHOW!!!

In a lopsided matchup, Angle tries to use his speed and wrestling skill against the towering behemoth, who deflects the champion's efforts with ease but can't seem to put the Olympic Hero down for the 3 count. After a Show Stopper attempt is reversed into a quickly broken Angle Lock, Kane creeps down to ringside and smirks wickedly at Big Show. "Why the hell is Kane out here?" Cole disputes at ringside. Tazz is equally puzzled but it's clear that Kane survived the fall at The Bash and has resumed his ridiculing of the 500 lb superstar.

After a while, Kurt Angle has noticed Kane's presence long enough and nails him to the floor with a baseball slide. Kurt Angle nails Kane with a steel chair, proving he isn't going to endure Kane's torment as long as Big Show had. The giant exits the ring next. Kurt tells him to "Finish it!" and hands him the steel chair. Big Show nods, but Kane holds up his hands, pleading with the giant, who, in a surprise turn, cracks Angle with the chair.

"Bah! What the hell, Cole?!"

Prone, Kane chuckles wickedly, the referee ends the match in a DQ, and Big Show tosses the US Champion back into the ring. Kurt tries to recover and weakly swings at the larger superstar, but is quickly defeated with a chokeslam. Tony Chimel announces Kurt's victory via DQ, the crowd cheers momentarily, but Kane and Big Show are still stalking over the flattened champion. The two men look at each other and slap hands, clearly on the same side now.

"I can't believe this, Tazz!"

Kane gives out an order, and Big Show hoists Angle back up to his feet, throwing him into Kane's mighty grasp. He tombstones the champion for good measure.

*******************************







"These two bulls going at it again, Cole!"

Tazz is speaking about Batista, who is set to collide with Cena again. Cole shows a replay of Cena's surprise appearance at The Bash, much to the chagrin of a title match-less Animal, who edged the controversial star from RAW in a close bout of phenomenal proportions.They clash, clearly ensuring the rift of animosity between them as they try to one-up each other for pride and dominance. "Well, Batista-- he don't like nobody but the World Title. Y'know that, Cole."

Nearly ten minutes of highly contested action transpires before the referee is leveled by a clothesline courtesy of the Animal. Stunned by the blow, Batista loses his focus for just a second and turns around right into Cena's FU. The crowd erupts once again for Cena, both positively and negatively, until Randy Orton, fresh off a loss for the World Championship at The Bash, slithers into the squared circle and dupes the Chain Gang Leader with a surprise RKO.

Orton smirks, and rolls back out of the ring. Batista recovers from the FU in a rage and slams Cena with a mountainous powerbomb. The referee recovers and counts Cena's shoulders. As Batista growls triumphantly at his devastated foe, he exits the ring and Orton returns into the ring with a microphone in hand.

"John Cena... the hottest commodity RAW's ever seen...who came onto my show at the worst...possible...time. I don't like you, John. I never have. Even since our days in OVW. But now? Now, you think you can strut onto SmackDown!-- my show -- and usurp my spot in the title picture? I don't think so, Cena.If I have to beat the living crap out of you to get this message through to you and send you running back to RAW, then that's what I'm gonna do." Orton hurls the microphone at Cena's chest and stomps his head in.

Backstage, Edge is standing under the bright lights with Lita as Josh Matthews interviews the controversial couple. "Edge, at The Bash, you silenced the skeptics and prevailed in a triple threat match, costing Orton the victory. Orton's made it clear that he still craves the championship belt on your shoulder and tonight you'll be facing the Legend Killer one on one. How do you respond?"

Edge raises his dark sunglasses with a nonchalant expression, clearly unfazed by Orton's intent, as Lita speaks on his behalf. "Josh, my man, Edge, is going to prove once again that guys like Orton and the Undertaker aren't on his level. These people don't know anything," the crowd boos, "and neither does Orton."

The pair walk away.

******************************

WHAT'CHU GONNA DO WHEN WE COME FOR YOU!

The crowd bursts for the masked superstar, Rey Mysterio, who is set for a highly awaited rematch with The Undertaker, who defeated him weeks ago in a close contest. The match of speed and size proves to be of equal worth. The Undertaker has something to prove tonight after his failure to recapture the title at The Bash, but the 619 Sensation has no problem getting in the Phenom's way.A 619 attempt leads to a tombstone reversal, as Undertaker yanks Mysterio through the ropes, but a headscissors plants the Phenom on the ropes again. It leads to a 619 and Mysterio lands a crippling leg drop to the back of the Undertaker's head while he was slowly trying to recover. A near fall follows and the Undertaker sits up, but Mysterio springboards again!

"Oh, he got caught, Cole! Look out!"

Undertaker prepares a 2nd attempt for the Tombstone Piledriver, but Rey wiggles free once more! He lands behind the Phenom, dropkicks him, and the Demon from Death Valley stumbles onto the middle rope. Instead of risking another 619, Mysterio runs up behind the Undertaker, whose momentum has knocked him backward, in perfect form for the San Diego Sensation to get a match-ending schoolboy!

"He did it, Cole! I can't believe it!"

Neither can the audience, who is mostly left cheering in response to Mysterio's dazzling victory. Even The Undertaker is in awe as he shakes off his embitterment from losing at The Bash, knowing this loss can't help his championship aspirations, but unafraid to give Mysterio his due credit. He holds up Mysterio's hand as a white mist aids the Phenom's strange disappearance. Mysterio resumes celebrating as Edge enters the arena to a tempest of jeering.

Edge mouths something to Mysterio, who is cautiously regarding the champion and his arm candy, before exiting the ring. Edge jaws at Mysterio's exit, smirking dominantly, as he throws off his trench coat. Orton makes his entrance next, and the two lock up. Lita's antics get her RKOed midway through the testy encounter and a spear from Edge nearly claims the hungry challenger.

But Randy surges back, landing a powerslam. Edge scrambles back up to his feet, but spears the referee instead. Orton is waiting for him. He lifts Edge up onto his shoulders, Edge panics, flailing his arms, as Orton plants him on his back with a devastating neckbreaker. Spinning on a dime, Orton lands on his fists and stalks behind the champion. Lita is still out from the RKO at ringside.

"RKO's coming, Cole..."

The crowd erupts.

"It's Cena! It's Cena!"

Cena lurches on top of the unsuspecting Orton, wrapping him up in the STFU until the Legend Killer passes out. The Chain Gang cheers on their resilient leader, who gestures his signature "You Can't See Me!" hand motion before leaving the ring.

Meanwhile, Edge has recovered and so is the referee. The Rated R Superstar bolts out of the corner and pierces Orton, who finally recovers only to be flattened again for the 3 count. Lita rolls back into the ring as Edge momentarily stalks over his fallen foe...until he notices Cena standing by the stage. Cena motions his hands over his waist, gesturing an invisible belt, and points at the actual title that rests in Edge's grasp.

Episode 19 - The Bash!

A video package plays, with text appearing on the titantron as the announcer's dramatic voice stirs.

The time has come...

A quick flash of SmackDown's roster, all of them poised for stardom as rain effects fall over them.

To celebrate.

The previous editions of The Bash flash on screen, showing multiple versions of red, white and blue fireworks, sound clips of Lilian Garcia singing the national anthem, as the cheers of ecstatic fans from years past live on tonight.

To humiliate.

A brief video runs down the feud between Kane and Big Show, their verbal assaults on one another and especially their physical confrontations.

("I'm a monster! You're just a giant...freak. At least I've accepted what I truly am.")

To desecrate.

Muhammad Hassan is holding up the US Title, and in-ring speeches show him bash-ing the country it represents. He holds up his arms, turban on his head, gloating. But Kurt Angle is seen winning a Gold Medal in the Olympics, putting Daivari in the ankle lock. "I'm a real American Hero! That title should be mine and it will be mine!"

And...

To validate.

Randy Orton is seen declaring his status as the Legend Killer. Clips reveal The Undertaker's legacy. Tazz is heard saying, "That's what we like to call dominance."

And Edge... is seen stealing the World Title, cheating his way past The Undertaker in the rematch and bragging about his greatness in the ring. The crowd's boos are loud and clear.

Tonight... is...

The Bash.

And now, SmackDown! presents: The Bash!

Cameras fly to the stage for a spectacular fireworks display, patriotism shining brightly as red white and blue streaks fill the air. The crowd approves, chanting USA as the camera rowdily pans over the excited fans and Michael Cole's voice comes into earshot.

Welcome, everybody! To The Bash! I'm here with my bashful partner, Tazz, at ringside for what is sure to be an awesome ride!

"I'm about to bash you, Cole! Ha! I love it!" Tazz breaks out of his cool demeanor and horses around with Cole a bit. "USA spirit alive and kicking here tonight!"

White fireworks burst over the stage in the shape of a V as a shrill voice cries: ONE OF A KIND!

"And what a match to kick things off here tonight, partner! A 2 out of 3 falls match for the Cruiserweight Championship."
"No joke, Cole. This rocket-buster might just steal the show before it even gets started! Ha!"

Bookaya, booyaka... 61-61-619! Booyaka, booyaka! Rey Mysterio!

A fast pace would be an understatement. Mysterio lands dropkicks, Rob Van Dam looses the San Diego Speed Devil's mask with brutal, whipping martial arts kicks as both men utilize the ring to their advantages, truly crafting a story in the squared circle--a spectacle worth revisiting a thousand times over. Mysterio spins into a 619, his boots colliding with the face of Mr. Pay-Per-View himself, Rey assails the top rope and springboards into a delayed splash that is worthy of a 3 count. The crowd goes wild, but the match isn't over yet.

After catching Rey's leg after a barrage of kicks to his knee, Rob Van Dam lifts Mysterio's leg, steps over and spins his own foot into the chin of the Masked Sensation. It's his turn to fly and he crashes into Mysterio with the Five Star Frog Splash. 1...2...3. "The match is even at 1 fall a piece," Tony Chimel notifies the audience, who is on the edge of their collective seat. Meanwhile, Tazz & Cole can't believe what an astounding opening match this has turned out to be, with both combatants tenaciously hunting for the elusive Cruiserweight Championship.

"Here goes Mysterio--619, Cole!"
"Nobody home, partner! RVD rolls out of the way at the last second."
"Van Dam on the move--look out!" Tazz exclaims as a running wheel kick finds Mysterio.
"He's looking to get high for a second time here, Cole! Mysterio's done, I'm telling ya!"

Mr. Pay-Per-View climbs the top rope, makes a dazzling leap halfway across the ring...but Mysterio rolls out of the way. RVD's audible groans precede a dropkick to the back that sends him stumbling onto the middle rope. "Wine me, dine me, 6...1...9 me!" Tazz commentates as the 619 connects for a 2nd time. On the way down, Mysterio is the one that becomes intimate with the unforgiving canvas. Meanwhile, Rob Van Dam has assailed the top rope with staggering speed. Before Mysterio can even realize what is happening, he is sandwiched!

1...2...3.

"Oh my...GOSH, Cole. That match was better than the fireworks!"
"I couldn't agree more, partner. A tremendous way to kick off The Bash!"

************************************

Up next, Chris Masters poses his way down to the ring. The added boost of Stacy Keibler (in her typical fan-approved short skirt that shows off her long legs) at his side is a key factor of his crowd support. She is in a cheerful mood and rubs his washboard abs. Making her own provocative sloooow entrance through the ring ropes, Stacy bends over for the world to see. Masters imposes his way into the ring, clearly not lacking any self-confidence.

The crowd grows even louder as Booker T, one half of the tag team champions, makes his fiery entrance, clearly in the zone as the match ignites with rambunctious action. Booker T's explosive style matches up well against the Masterpiece's power-centered strategy. Despite the massive amount of cheers, the Houston native falls to the Masterlock. Stacy enters the ring, wowing the crowd a 2nd time, as she celebrates with her talent. "I gotta get myself a manager, Cole. Stacy's on fire tonight--whew, baby!"

Momentarily, Cole and Tazz are in a festive mood at ringside after the match. "Well, I'm afraid this is where things take a grim turn, ladies and gentlemen. Take a look."

The video package plays for the Last Man Standing match between Kane and Big Show, as a recap of the former's abusive tactics is shown on the big screen. Outdoing Booker T's entrance, the Big Red (and sickeningly proud) Monster bathes the arena in dark crimson flames, evil music escorting him to the ring as Big Show makes his way out next. The two big men stare each other down and before long, Kane insults the Giant saying he's the "Big Freak." As a result, all hell breaks loose! Big Show is soon busted open again, but it doesn't stop him!

The rage of the giant clashes well against Kane's inherent wickedness. The two big bulls brutalize each other all over the ring, the arena and finally into the stage area. Using his dominant power, the Big Show lifts Kane into a display light. There is a small electric explosion and the crowd gasps. A mountainous growl escapes the giant as he calls for the Show Stopper.

"Oh, gawd, Cole."
"Not off the stage..."
"Look out!"

But Kane reverses it mid-air and both men plummet through tables and other ringside equipment. The crowd is left in a stunned silence as are SmackDown's commentators.

**************************************

After EMT units tend to Big Show (and Kane, had he not fled from their efforts with a noticeable limp), things take a refreshing lighter note as new theme music fills the arena.





"What the hell, Cole? RAW divas at the bash? What gives?"
"I've just received word that these two delightful divas are now exclusive to SmackDown!"

Tony Chimel announces a bikini contest between the two sizzling hot divas. The crowd erupts!

The beauteous blonde Playboy cover girl declares that a bikini contest is the best way to make a debut!

"I'm gonna need new pants, Cole!"

The crowd can't decide which diva is victorious as they both celebrate together as a compromise. All is joy...until LITA appears on the titantron, calling the divas a pair of hussies.

Boos suddenly respond as Lita's words are nearly drowned out. "Tonight, my man, Edge, is going to be the true victor."

******************************************

"Well, that remains to be seen, ladies and gentlemen. Moving forward, the next encounter may be one that captures the essence of The Bash!"

A video plays for the steel cage match between Kurt Angle & the controversial Muhammad Hassan. Kurt Angle makes his heroic entrance, with the crowd clearly on his side.

Meanwhile, the ominous chamber of steel lowers over the ring. The crowd is squirming in their seats with anticipation. As the match begins, every time Hassan's face meets the steel walls, the crowd heartily approves. Before long, it is clear that Angle is too much for the shameful United States Champion. Hassan's goons try to interfere, but they can't manage to unlock the cage door.

To help them along through their confusion, Batista comes out and beats the crap out of them, letting out his fury. Meanwhile, Angle yanks Hassan (who was trying to escape during the confusion) down from the cage by his...ankle and latches on the crippling submission hold. Hassan is forced to tap out and the referee has to tackle Angle for him to relinquish the hold.

Angle's patriotic theme plays as he raises up the newly earned United States Championship. The crowd is applauding with fervid chants of USA! "Yeah! My man, Angle, getting it done!"

After Angle celebrates in the ring, putting on his gold medals as icing on the cake, the cage has already risen back up and Batista confronts Angle in the ring. The two men pass each other by as the Animal grabs a microphone. He is clearly upset, growling with Teddy Long's name being featured heavily in his angry speech. "I should be competing tonight for the World Heavyweight Championship, not those other two clowns. A cult leader and a brazen punk! So, Teddy, since you're obviously not going to give me what I want, what are you going to do, huh?

"You could at least give me something to pummel tonight."

The GM of SmackDown! makes his way onto the titan-tron, says if Batista is aching for some competition, he has just the right solution. "Just traded from RAW, I give you..."



IT'S - JOHN - CENA!

The crowd is ecstatic one way or another for the controversial former WWE champion from RAW. Batista wins a close one, and even has some fans on his side, as he rakes Cena's eyes and finishes him with a powerbomb. "Well, not quite the welcome John Cena was probably hoping for, but I don't think you can blame the Animal." Tazz remarks as Batista departs.

***********************************************

The best video package of the night plays for the triple threat main event. The crowd is hot for each combatant, but Edge easily receives the worst reaction, as he slithers his way to the ring with Lita attached to his hip. Around his waist is the coveted prize that both challengers yearn to have with every fiber of their being. The #1 contender Orton looks particularly hungry and batters Edge in the early going, but his attempts are diverted by the Demon from Death Valley. He has a bone to pick (literally) with the two men who cost him the championship.

After interfering once too many, Lita gets chokeslammed by The Undertaker. "That takes care of that, Cole! Ha!"

Randy Orton & Edge, two young commodities, discard The Undertaker and resume their back and forth tussling. Edge's clothesline misses, and he gets powerslammed over the top rope, crashing into Lita on the floor below. The expulsion of Edge allows Undertaker and Orton's heated exchange to repeat last week. The Phenom seizes the 3rd generation superstar by the throat, but this time, Orton refuses, scampering toward the turnbuckle while still in the clutches of the Deadman. He cinches his own arm around the former champion's head and connects with the run-up RKO from the corner. Undertaker splats onto the canvas with a deafening crash, motionless. "Orton just killed the Deadman, Cole! Damn!"

The crowd is left in disbelief. Edge is nowhere to be seen with his championship reign about to meet a short end. But Lita hops onto the apron to distract Orton. He swings, and Lita collapses in fear. Edge sneaks in, wallops Orton from behind with the title belt. The #1 contender tumbles into the ropes, and staggers back around, receiving a spear for the unpopular defeat.

"Lita's words ring true. but how long can edge cheat to stay on top?" Cole commentates, but The Undertaker sits up and scares the crap out of the sniveling champion, who bolts from the ring with his significant other in tow. The show appears to close on The Undertaker as he cuts a finger across his neck and rolls his eyes back as Edge holds up the title belt, but...Orton has recovered and is standing behind the Deadman. He is fuming at the mouth, as red as a cherry, and swings him around, aims the RKO, but is flipped mid-air into a tombstone.

The crowd thunderously applauds as Undertaker poses in the ring, the arena drenched in purple gloom.

Episode 18 - SmackDown! Before The Bash

The WWE intro plays, followed by:



Welcome to SmackDown! Tensions are fuming with just four days until The Bash this Sunday!

No doubt, Cole. And I gotta tell ya--I'm wondering if some of SmackDown's finest will even be able to put up with each other until then!

We can only hope, partner, as The Bash promises to be a great showing by the #1 brand in sports-entertainment. Take it away, Chimel!

"The following tag team match is scheduled for one fall, and it is for the WWE Tag Team Championship!"



New champs, Booker T & Rob Van Dam, looking sharp with the gold 'round their waists. Got their plate full tonight!

I couldn't agree more, partner. It's apparent that the former champions will be looking to regain what was once theirs.



Despite the bravado shown by Christian & Jericho, the fervid combination of crowd support for the new champions and high energy levels of Booker T & Rob Van Dam prove too great of an obstacle. Christian is knocked out of the ring by Booker T, as RVD gets planted by Jericho, but rolls out of the lionsault. Booker T lurches in and nails the Book-End on the Fozzy frontman. Meanwhile, Mr. Thursday Night launches himself over the top rope at Captain Charisma as the referee counts Jericho's shoulders.

Well, you can't fault the effort of Jericho & Christian.
Not for nothing, Cole. But it's clear the new champs like being on top.

Booker T and Rob Van Dam, two immense fan favorites, celebrate warmly with the audience as the cameras swivel backstage. Naughtily, the camera chases up a pair of long, long legs and zooms in for a tantalizing view of a woman's backside, minimally clothed by daisy dukes and a belt to die for. "Who's this, Cole? Getting hot under the collar here…" The click-clack of her heels can be heard as a delicate hand pats on the locker room door. "Howdy, boys." As if the voice weren't telling enough, the camera finally grants the viewers at home the gorgeous face of Stacy Keibler. The handful of superstars are melted over with amorous smiles as Stacy's pearly white teeth shine.

"How's it going?" She asks, and receives a few stammered responses. "Hey, big man…" She eyes Chris Masters. He points at his chest. "Yeah, you. C'mere." The boys heckle the Masterpiece as he blushes and flexes at the same time, muting some of the catcalls as he approaches the gorgeous leggy blonde. "Yeah?" On-camera, behind Stacy and Chris as they leave the dressing room, is Carlito, who is chewing on an apple and following behind them.

"I might be new to SmackDown. But I've seen more than enough…" She is gawking at the man's impressive muscles. "To notice you're the next big thing." Masters smiles with confidence, absorbing the compliment. "But." Stacy's glossy lips shimmer sexily as she holds up a finger. Masters perks an eyebrow, as does Carlito behind them. "You need…something…else. An extra little something to win over the crowd." Masters shrugs, entertaining the idea and liking the imagery his presumptions are leading him to. "If you're game, I wouldn't mind lending my talents at ringside for you tonight." Masters grins from ear to ear, blatantly accepting the offer, but Carlito blurts out. "You're serious?"

Finally, the breathtaking diva and the bustling Masterpiece discover the Puerto Rican loudmouth, sporting his afro as his mouth hangs open in cool haughtiness. "Cause if you're handing out favors, I wouldn't mind some of those talents either." He raises a wicked eyebrow and Masters tenses. "Easy, big boy." Stacy intervenes, placing her smooth manicured fingers on the Masterpiece's massive chest. "What did you say?" She asks Carlito, whose ego shrivels before the bodacious blonde. He stammers as the diva's evocative stare rips apart the fiber of his entire being. "I was just--you know--saying that I need some help getting to the--the next level--on, uh, on SmackDown, you know?"

"Hmm." Stacy cutely ponders, teasing the big-haired rambler. "We'll see. But first, Chris has a match against Kurt Angle." Carlito nods, thankful for even being spoken to by such an angel, but the cold stare from the Masterpiece crushes the Puerto Rican even more. In that match alluded to by Miss Keibler, the audience would nearly faint as near fall after near fall evolved into a spectacular contest. A new liveliness emerged inside of Chris Masters as Stacy's encouraging chants at ringside egged him on. But the Olympic Hero is no walk in the park. He takes the refueled Masterpiece to his utmost limits before cinching in the ankle lock on the larger superstar. But Stacy Keibler bounces up onto the apron and blows a kiss to Angle, who is looking straight at her. The momentary distraction, though Angle merely shook his head in confusion, proves to be enough for Masters who flips Angle forward. As the Olympic Hero recovers, staggering backward, he is trapped in the Masterlock before any counter can be mounted by the resilient fan favorite. The crowd is littered with some boos, but others are ecstatic because Stacy hops into the ring!

SmackDown's new legs and the Masterpiece celebrate as Angle shakes his head, not liking what happened, but realizing it was mostly a fair outcome. Mostly. "I love it, Cole. Look at those loooong legs. Whoo! No place like SmackDown!, baby!"

***************************************************

After a commercial break, the arena erupts into a fiery doom as Kane makes his haunting entrance. The Big Show is there to meet him moments later, as Cole informs the audience at home that this first blood match was requested personally by the Big Red Monster per approval by Theodore Long, SD!'s General Manager. "From, ah, Miss Keibler to this definite splatterfest. I can't wait, Cole. Big Show ain't a fan of Kane's new shtick." Before long, a steel chair shot threatens to make some red pour out from under Kane's fiery mask. But Kane brutalizes his way back into the contest. As expected, he begins to taunt the world's largest athlete with no remorse or decency. It only angers the giant, who begins to pummel Kane with the chair and even tries to use the steel steps, but is tripped by Kane as the steps slam into his face upon colliding with the floor.

"Look out, Show!" Tazz exclaims at ringside to no avail. Kane cracks him with the chair as soon as he stands up on wobbly legs. The result is blood that Kane aggravates even further, rubbing his boot into Big Show's face. The giant shoves him off, but Kane starts laughing, saying "All of these people…are…laughing at you." Big Show is livid, wiping his wound with his hand, and refuses medical attention. He chases after Kane, but trips, which incites more laughter from some members of the audience.

"Big Show's gonna tear Kane a new one, Cole, I'm telling you."
"Well, personally I'm disgusted by both men's actions tonight."

Rey Mysterio & Eddie Guerrero best Shelton Benjamin and Daivari next, winning with the 619 and Frog Splash. Angle applauds backstage, despite his loss earlier. Once Hassan is the only one left standing in the ring, Angle appears on the titantron. "I love seeing trash put in its proper place. I'll see you at The Bash, Hassan. Oh, by the way, General Manager Theodore Long wants me to inform you that if any of your goons try to interfere, tough luck. Because it's going to be…YOU…and…ME, Kurt Angle, the true American Hero and future US champion, in a STEEL...CAGE." The crowd explodes at the surprise disclosure. Hassan and Daivari grimace and continue to incite the crowd more.

In yet another disappointing match for Batista, the antics of new champion Edge & his devious sidearm Lita get the best of him. Edge will have to lick some wounds for The Bash, but Batista is the one left whimpering in the ring. He destroys equipment at ringside and eventually stomps off to the back after security intervenes.

In a WAR, Orton & Undertaker tackle each other, animosity spilling over the threshold between them. A recap of each superstar's surprise attack on the other plays beforehand, ultimately leading up to Orton's attempt for an RKO that looks like a Dudley Dog, bringing back some ECW memories for Tazz at ringside. The Legend Killer steps up the turnbuckle and intends to swing around in mid-air, but the Phenom counters the creative maneuver on the way down, corralling the brazen 3rd generation superstar into a tombstone piledriver for the definitive victory. Undertaker kneels under the purple lights, sending a message that the championship is truly his and is going to go back on his waist.

"That is what we like to call dominance, Cole."

"I couldn't agree more, Tazz. But will that dominance continue when the odds are split into thirds this Sunday at The Bash, live on pay-per-view?"

"We'll find out. Ha!"

"That we will, partner. Thank you, everybody, for tuning in tonight. We'll see you this Sunday!"

Episode 17 - Aftermath

After the WWE intro:



Unlike usual, there is no festive greeting by Michael Cole as the camera pans the crowd.
Because Edge is the in the ring with Lita, gloating about his cunning victory.
The gold World Heavyweight Championship is resting over his shoulder.

The crowd instantly hates him, having gained no new fans since jumping from RAW. The Rated R Superstar can't torture the crowd with self-praise for long because Theodore Long emerges and makes a rematch for the title.

But Edge blatantly low blows The Undertaker, which ends the match by DQ. Afterward, the SmackDown! General Manager isn't convinced and neither is Orton or Batista, who make their way down to the ring. They all want a piece of the gold and plead their respective cases to the GM.

"At The Bash, I'm making a triple threat match for the World Heavyweight Championship between the new champion, Edge, the #1 contender, Randy Orton, and...the former champion, The Undertaker." The crowd approves but Batista clearly doesn't and neither does Orton. Each argues the decision but Long's judgment is final.

****************************************
After his crushing defeat at the hands of the Big Show, Rey Mysterio is back in shape against Rob Van Dam, in a ladder match for the Cruiserweight Championship, which winds up being quite a treat for the fans. Mysterio wins!

"New Cruiserweight Champ, Cole! Mysterio did it!"
"The two prideful combatants exchanging mutual respect..."

Backstage, Benjamin scoffs at Mysterio's victory, watching the program on a monitor, as he bumps heads with Christian. "What are you looking at?"

"I might ask you the same thing. What's the matter, don't like being proven wrong by Mysterio? That makes, what, two weeks in a row now that you've eaten your words? How's the ankle?"

"And who are you?" Benjamin defensively objects. "Last I saw, you gave up the Tag Team Championship to Mysterio's opponent tonight." He coldly bites back.

Christian smirks with a wry chuckle. "You know what, Benjamin? I think the Peeps would like it if I taught you a lesson tonight on who the true Gold Standard is."

"Peeps? What are you, Captain Canary now? You're on, chump."

Meanwhile...

The arena has fallen under a crimson shroud. It's Kane. He's back.

AND HE'S WEARING A MASK!

"Last week on SmackDown!, the Big Show made his debut." Kane foully growls to the audience behind the guise of a new fiery red mask. "What a freak. Smiling at all of you... pretending a hideous giant fits in with normal people. And what makes me SICK is how you people cheer him on, making him believe he's not a monster. Well, at least I have accepted what I truly am."

"It seems the attacks from Muhammad Hassan long ago have snapped something alive inside of Kane." Cole speculates, followed by Tazz. "What the hell happened to Kane since he went to RAW, Cole? Sheesh!"

Big Show comes out, clearly upset, saying, "This freak is going to cinch his giant-sized fingers around your neck and chokeslam your ass back to hell!" The crowd approves and Kane merely laughs from behind his mask, tightening his glove.

The bell rings, and before long, Kane's taunting starts to take effect on the giant. While he's beating on Kane in the corner, he gets disqualified for not heeding the referee's warnings. In a sudden outburst, the Big Show snaps and chokeslams referee Charles Robinson. The crowd heavily boos and Big Show shouts at them. In the heat of the moment, Kane has slithered out of the ring, laughing as he retreats.

**********************************

Fresh off his tag team victory with RVD, Booker T is excited backstage with his partner about the opportunity he has tonight to win more gold in the US title. He is bummed that RVD lost his match against Mysterio, but is given a wish for good luck by Mr. Thursday Night all the same.

...GO!...

The Peeps have leaped into existence as Christian makes his way to the ring, followed shortly by Shelton Benjamin's ego, along with the blond-headed superstar. In a competitive match, Christian catches Benjamin's foot mid-super kick, spins him around for the Killswitch, but gets shoved off into the ropes. On the rebound, Benjamin snares him for the t-bone suplex that seals an impressive showing by the auspicious, albeit arrogant superstar. The Peeps have vanished.



In the ring, only Hassan & Daivari have the self-righteous nerve to blather on about how they're the pure choice for United States Champion and will one day rise to even higher peaks of greatness, that the audience or WWE itself won't be able to stop them from doing so. The scorn from the audience nearly drowns out their words and the WWE Universe is spared by Booker T's entrance.

"Thank god, Cole. Here comes the next US Champion..."
"That has yet to be seen, partner, though honestly I wouldn't mind it."

Hassan soils everyone's dream, however, but Kurt Angle (still hot off his loss to The Undertaker) shows up and easily disposes of Daivari (who helped Hassan win by hitting Booker T with the title belt). "You're a disgrace to that belt, Hassan!" Kurt calls out the cowering champion, who has retreated up the ramp with a wounded Daivari. "I'm a real US champion! Enjoy that belt while you can. Because at The Bash, it's going to be mine!"

********************************

The main event for tonight's show has rocketed into place. The crowd negatively welcomes Randy Orton, one of the culprits behind the end of Undertaker's title reign, and gives a slightly warmer response to Batista, though the Animal could not be less concerned with them. The crowd easily favors the third man that enters the arena.

In a star-studded affair, the Legend Killer and the Animal tussle again, but are smacked into next week by the Brahma Bull. After an RKO goes awry and sends Orton crashing outside of the ring, Batista gets planted by a spinebuster. The People want their favorite Elbow Drop, but the Animal powers back up to his feet.

"Right back at ya, Rock! Ha!" Tazz comments as the Animal plants the Great One and shakes the ropes, the arena falling into utter turbulence. He preps the Batista Bomb, dragging the flattened People's Champion back up to his feet, but The Rock counters, flipping the bigger man onto his back. Blinded by fury, Batista races forward with a deathly clothesline, but is sprung off his own feet for a thunderous Rock Bottom!

The applause of the people shatters the sound barrier as their champion wins.

"What a great comeback win for The Rock!" Cole announces. Orton is seen favoring a sore shoulder after tumbling out of the ring. Instead of engaging the victor, the #1 contender retreats, sorely nodding his head.

But...

As Orton backs up the ramp, he is greeted by The Undertaker, whose hulking frame collides into the Legend Killer from behind. Before Orton can respond, he is powerlessly seized by a dragon sleeper. Struggling for breath, Orton is choked out.

"Payback's a bitch, Cole! Orton's counting sheep!"
"A foul warning of things to come from the Phenom, partner..."

Thunder crackles as Undertaker rolls back his eyes and runs his thumb over his throat as he demonically gazes down at the unconscious louse.

Episode 16 - An Unexpected Favor

The WWE intro plays, followed by:



Welcome to SmackDown! The #1 brand in sports-entertainnment!
No doubt, Cole! And SmackDown's going to live up to that honor tonight!

My sentiments exactly, partner! Tonight, we're going to see what promises to be an epic showdown between the People's Champion, The Rock, and the World Heavyweight Champion, the phenomenal Undertaker!

Two words, Cole: Rocket. Buster. I'm tellin' ya! Ha!



"Well, here they come, Tazz, the WWE Tag Team Champions, Christian and Y2J Chris Jericho. A few weeks ago, we saw them clash with their challengers for tonight. And it might've been a dark omen of things to come!" A video shows the victory by Booker T & Rob Van Dam weeks ago when they faced the Tag Team Champions. "Bah, I don't think so, Cole. Christian and Jericho--they know how to get the job done!"



Referee Jack Patton holds up the shimmering silver and blue Tag Team Titles. "That's what it's all about here tonight, Cole. And-- DAMN!" Tazz is cut off as Rob Van Dam drives his foot into the mouth of Chris Jericho to 'kick' off the contest. "RVD literally kicking things off here, Tazz, near fall on Jericho." Tazz agrees, saying, "Van Dam doesn't play around. Back in ECW, he held the TV Title for a whole year!" Cole commends Van Dam's tenacity. "An impressive feat, partner. There is no question that RVD wouldn't mind adding another championship belt to his present collection." Cole is referring to the Cruiserweight Championship, that waits at ringside for its keeper, as Jericho cockily plants a foot on the chest of Mr. Thursday Night.

"C'mon, baby!" Jericho's foolery amounts to a muscular pose atop Van Dam, who quickly rolls out from beneath his foot. The referee admonishes Jericho, who shoos him away. "I'm the King of the World!" Jericho growls self-assuredly and tags in Christian, who goes to work on Van Dam. After some dirty tactics, Van Dam flips out of the corner and tags in a hot Booker T!

"Book's teaching these two suckas how it really goes down, Cole!"

"Booker T is on fire, chop to Jericho, bet he feels the sting, but Christian--oh! A debilitating reverse DDT by Captain Charisma, planting the rowdy challenger!"

Christian punishes Booker T, who is trying to call upon the crowd to rally back against the champions, who continue to abuse the referee's eyesight (or lack thereof). A tag to Jericho leads to him holding onto the ropes as he applies a very uncomfortable looking abdominal stretch until referee Jack Patton sees it and breaks the hold. Jericho tries to corral the Houston Native, but he scampers to his team's corner and tags in a hot RVD, who plants yet another boot to Jericho's teeth, springboarding off the ropes and spin-kicking Christian to the floor.

Christian returns with the tag team belt in his grasp, trying to mosey in behind Van Dam, while the referee struggles to get Booker T (who's engaged Jericho) out of the ring as the illegal man, but Christian's attempts goes awry as Mr. Thursday Night leaps into the air and kicks the title belt back into Captain Charisma's face. "Oh, the peeps had to feel that one, Cole!"

Meanwhile, Booker T has listened to the referee, but only after planting Jericho with the Book End, which sets him up perfectly for the championship-worthy Five Star Frog Splash!

"What a way to kick off SmackDown! Nobody gets higher than that man right there, Mr. Thursday Night, Rob Van Dam!"

"Let's take a look at the replay, Tazz!" Cole gives commentary throughout the replay as the cameras flash during the huge splash. Meanwhile, the new champions celebrate while the former ones skulk to the back, pushing each other away in disagreement of what went wrong.

************************************************

Batista is hulking over the desk of Theodore Long, SmackDown's GM.

"Come on, Teddy--y'know I deserve a title shot at THE BASH."
"I have to disagree with ya, big man. Orton earned his shot at Super SmackDown."
"You know I had The Undertaker beat that night. If it wasn't for Angle..."
"Maybe so, big man. But I'll tell ya what--tonight, you can take your aggression on Orton."

Batista stares down the General Manager, but slowly backs away with a smirk on his face.

"Thanks, Teddy. A pleasure, as always."

The bell rings. Tony Chimel announces, "The following match is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first..."

Rey Mysterio enters the building to a huge ovation. "Lots of support for the 619 Speed Devil tonight, Cole!"

His opponent, SmackDown's latest trade acquisition from RAW...

WELL...IT'S THE BIG SHOOOOW.

"What?" is the collective reaction. Most of all, Rey Mysterio is shocked at the size disparity of his incoming opponent. The Big Show is stomping his way down to the ring to a moderate reaction from the crowd. "David & Goliath meet again, Cole!" Cole agrees as Big Show looms over the top rope and steps into the ring. Mysterio is itching, but unsure of how to tackle the giant. Eventually, the mountainous acquisition rakes in at Mysterio, big hands trying to yank him into his grasp, but Mysterio slips between his legs. Instinctively, he brilliantly hops off the ropes and leaps backward at Big Show.

"He got caught! Mysterio's done for, I'm tellin' ya!"
"What's Big Show doing here?"

Big Show lifts Mysterio high into the air and tosses him with ease over the top rope. "Crash and burn, courtesy of the Big Show." Mysterio slowly recovers as Big Show motions to the fans for a mixed reaction. The San Diego Sensation crawls back into the squared circle but it's to no avail. Big Show's size and strength are too much. A merciful, yet agonizing Chokeslam puts Mysterio down for the 3 count and then some.

"Your winner of this match, the BIG...SHOW."

************************************************

Back after a commercial break, the cameras dawn upon Eddie Guerrero, who is joking around with a battered Mysterio. "You got squashed, holmes! I've been in your shoes. I tried my hardest to beat him, but, hey, holmes--" Eddie shrugs. "He's a big boy, vato!" Mysterio tries to play along, but his back is feeling the brunt of the injuries after taking on the Big Show.

"I see you guys are laughing it off, but shorty here just got himself whooped in the ring tonight," says a disparaging Shelton Benjamin, ego rising through his blond hair. "See, I ain't too big on giggles and screwing around. I'm all about winning and proving to the WWE Universe that I'm the best in the world and the future of WWE." Eddie and Rey perk an eyebrow. "Eh, is that right, ese?" Eddie jabs back. "I suppose that's why you've been trying so hard to lose lately, huh, cabron?" Shelton tenses and stares a hole through Guerrero.

In the background, though he goes unnoticed by Cole & Tazz is a pensive Kurt Angle, who has to be feeling sour after his tough loss to The Undertaker last week. Meanwhile, to make matters worse, the turban-clad duo of Muhammad Hassan & Khosrow Daivari step up alongside Benjamin. "Yeah, Rey, you gave a nice showing tonight. Almost as nice as when you gave me this..." Hassan points to the United States Championship that is hanging over his shoulder. The smarmy Arab superstar clutches the belt. Before Eddie can voice a comeback...

"Hey." Kurt Angle bluntly enters the heated exchange, obviously in a fierce mood. "Mysterio's no chump. I know from experience." He vouches for the heel's latest target. "I just lost one of the biggest matches of my career. Frankly, I'm still pissed about it. So why do I gotta hear you 3 punks yammer about who's the best? Because if anyone's a chump around here, I'm looking at 'em right now." Angle declares in his nasally voice, staring down Benjamin and Hassan. Daivari shouts something in Arabic but Angle holds up a hand to stop him. "What's that? You're saying Hassan here wants to hand his title over to a real American champion?" The crowd voices a collective "ooh" at the bold statement. Hassan tenses even more and cuts off his manager. Meanwhile, Chris Masters has perked up to listen in on the war of words.

"You don't deserve to face me for this title, Mr. Angle. You're not even qualified. None of you are. But if you want to settle this..."
"What--in the ring? No problem." Mysterio finally speaks up in his gravelly voice, but Eddie steps in front of him. "I got this covered for ya, holmes."
"I'll run circles around you three clowns." Angle accepts the offer, grinning confidently. The Masterpiece steps up, his muscles pumping as he speaks.
"Y'know, Kurt's not the only one that has a problem with you having that championship, Hassan. I wouldn't mind breaking you in half tonight either."

"Sounds good, then, doesn't it?" Shelton Benjamin jumps in. "Because all I see is a has-been, a midget and a beefcake that's all brawn and no brains."
"Yeah, it does." Angle chimes in. "I guess my teachings went in one ear and out the other, Benjamin. After tonight, you won't have a leg to stand on."
"We'll see." Benjamin responds to his former mentor, and Hassan repeats it, followed by Daivari's incoherent rambling as the three men exit the room.

"Oh, man, Cole. This night's getting better by the minute!"
"I don't know, partner. Things might only get worse as the night goes on."

It seems Cole's worry are confirmed as...

BATISTA hulks onto the stage, angry rock music booming throughout the arena. RANDY ORTON enters next and cheats his way to a victory by putting his feet on the ropes. Batista is furious and chases Orton to the backstage area. Orton tries to escape, but comes to blows with the larger superstar. Being overpowered, Batista slams him through an equipment table. "Good luck at The Bash, punk." Batista growls as he stomps away, having no problem with security as referees tend to Orton, who is covered in debris and splintered wood, wincing.

"Well, I think the moral here is to not anger the beast, eh, Cole?"

********************************************************

In the 6 man tag team match, egos are brimming to a breaking point. The technically-studded trio of Masters, Angle & Guerrero clash well with Benjamin's agility, but are overwhelmed by Hassan & Daivari's dirty antics in the early part of the contest. Inevitably, chaos breaks loose, giving referee Nick Patrick too much to deal with. The Angle Slam finds Daivari, who is thrown over the ropes as a result. Meanwhile, Guerrero lands the 3 Amigos on Hassan, who stumbles back up to his feet, only to be lynched by the Masterlock while Benjamin is left to writhe in the Angle Lock.

As the losing trio limp to the back, Angle gestures at Hassan, enviously making a point about how he wants that US Title that still unceremoniously hangs over the Arab's shoulder.

Backstage, The Undertaker is present for a rare interview with Josh Matthews. "Well, first of all, congratulations on your successful title defense last week against Kurt Angle." Matthews commends the Demon of Death Valley in a shaky voice. "Tonight, in a non-title match that is now mere moments away, you are to face the People's Champion, The Rock. What are you feelings?" The Undertaker regards the scrawny interviewer with his fearsome eyes that nearly send Matthews scampering out of his shoes. "The Rock..." He begins in a sinister drawl. "And myself go way back. We've had some disagreements in the past. But tonight?" The Phenom raises an eyebrow as Matthews swallows a lump in his throat. "...It ends." And he leaves.

IF YA SMELL...WHAT THE ROCK...IS COOKIN'!

It's yet another fierce match for The Undertaker, who's had two back-to-back title defenses. Even with the power of darkness, the champion has to be running low on resolve. The Rock is there to beat him down, equally brisk, until a neck-and-neck exchange concludes with a tombstone piledriver after a reversal to the Rock Bottom. "Wow, Cole, what a match. The Deadman said it was going to end tonight, and The Rock went down." Afterward, the champion exchanges nods with the humbled Brahma Bull, who returns to the back, and then drops to one knee, the lights switching to a purple mist as the Demon of Death Valley raises the coveted World Championship in the center of the ring, the organ-laced music chilling the arena.

"That's one scary dude, Cole. Who's going to be able to stop the Dea--"
"W-what--who's that by the turnbuckle?" Cole interrupts, noticing the shrouded figure in the corner as the crowd falls into a clamor.
"No, no, no, who's THAT at ringside, Cole? Don't turn around, champ!"

Suddenly, the lights come back on. The Undertaker turns around, barely able to stand as Edge's shoulder rams into him, slamming him on the mat. The lights dawn upon the blond Rated R Superstar, who's made a name for himself since being traded to RAW, paramountly clear by the briefcase that is being held by Lita, the other one at ringside. Edge is hollering something to the referee, who in turn is shouting something to Tony Chimel. "Edge is cashing in his Money in the Bank briefcase. The following match is scheduled for one fall and it is for the World Heavyweight Championship." Not wasting any time, Edge rushes in on the stunned champion, but the Phenom powers out at the breath of 3. "C'mon, Undertaker!" Cole blurts.

Before long, referee Mike Chioda is leveled by a big boot from The Undertaker. As the champion hesitates for just a moment, Edge prepares a 2nd spear, but is beat to the punch by the #1 contender, Randy Orton, who slips into the ring and RKOs the champion. He pops back up to his feet, glances at the fallen Phenom, and says, "He's all yours. I'll see you at The Bash."

"Not like this--come on!" Cole heatedly disputes.
"What the hell? This ain't right..." Tazz responds.
As Edge clobbers the Deadman with a spear.

Meanwhile, Lita is reviving referee Mike Chioda, who makes a slow, but evident 3 count. "Here is your winner...and NEW...World Heavyweight Champion..."

...ON THIS DAY...

"I can't believe this! That spineless Orton just cost The Undertaker the World Heavyweight Title!" Cole shouts in disgust, as Edge & Lita are brought to tears in celebration.

Episode 15

The WWE intro plays, followed by:



Welcome to SmackDown! The WWE Universe is elecccctric tonight!

The bell rings, appeasing the eager fans. It's Chris Masters versus William Regal. The brawler from Black Pool, England confirms the moniker. Punches here, a t-bone suplex there, as he outmaneuvers Masters with his chain wrestling skills. But the sheer might of the Masterpiece endures and subdues the pugnacious Brit, wrapping him up for the submission victory.

"The Masterpiece using that awesome power to put down a feisty Regal."

"Thanks, Captain Obvious. But give it up to Regal. Masterpiece was taken to the limit here tonight!"

"Well, ladies and gentlemen, Teddy Long has approved what is sure to be an exciting if not brutal contest."

A graphic plays, displaying an elimination style tag team tables match between Daivari, Hassan, Orton & Mysterio, Van Dam & The Rock!

"Some ECW flavor tonight, Cole. I'm liking this! Good move by T-Lo tonight. Should be a rocket-buster."

"And even more importantly, after last week's dazzling triple threat match on Super SmackDown! 2, Kurt Angle and The Undertaker have agreed on a rematch."

A second graphic shows a Falls Count Anywhere contest for the coveted World Heavyweight Championship. "We've received word that the animal, Batista, tried to request a total rematch, but was denied by SmackDown! General Manager, Theodore Long."

"I'm sure Batista don't like being turned down, but props to the GM for having the gall to refuse that monster."

The ring bell clangs again.

"Can you dig it, SUCKA?!"

The crowd ignites for the lively Houston native as Booker T makes his way down to the ring, the stage still puffing out balls of flame as a determined look fills his eyes. "Book's in the zone tonight, Cole." Cole describes how Chris Jericho cheated to beat the Spin-a-Rooni Showman last week alongside footage of the incident. But the pompous rock star isn't concerned.

Jericho strolls down to the ring, pompous as always, self-proclaimed king of the world.

But Booker T is. And it shows. He's one step ahead of Jericho at every turn. A neat sunset flip from the corner nearly overcomes the Canadian Egotist. But Jericho rallies back, putting on a spectacle of technical wrestling. Booker T soon finds himself imprisoned in the Lion Tamer. "The pain HAS to be excruciating, Tazz!" But the crowd fuels Booker T on and helps him reach the ropes before the pain wins. High on adrenaline, Booker T is riding a wave of electricity, shocking Jericho at every turn once again. He rolls up to his feet as Jericho preps another Lionsault. As Jericho lands back down, rattled and stumbling backward, his head is still ducked as Booker T's scissors kick comes crashing down for the 1...2...3, with the cameras flashing within the crowd.

*********************************************************

"......GO!......."

"Here comes Christian, one half of the WWE Tag Team Champions."

"Who's he gesturing to, Cole? I d-don't get it!"

"C'mon, Tazz. Y'know as well as I do, that Christian is signaling to all of his 'peeps'."

"Right..."

"AIN'T NO STOPPING ME NOW!"

Shelton Benjamin makes his way onto the stage, followed by Carlito, all three men hearing boos from the crowd as the triple threat spectacle commences!

"Look out here...OH! What a clothesline by Captain Charisma. Knocked Carlito on his ass!"

Just as Christian levels the boastful superstar with that clothesline, Shelton Benjamin soars through the air from the top rope, spring-boarding into Christian, who is unaware of the devastating hit that easily outdoes his own clothesline! "Where the hell did Benjamin come from? This is off the chain, Cole!"

"That's right, Tazz. And SmackDown! is the only place the WWE Universe will find fast-paced action and youthful competitive spirit!"

"What you said--ha! Look out, Benjamin's setting up that T-Bone Suplex..."

But Carlito reverses it, lands on his feet behind Benjamin, and spins around, leaping into the air and driving his knees into his opponent. "Backstabber by Carlito! What a counter!" Shelton is writhing in pain on the canvas, but Christian rolls up Carlito from behind, sneaking a 2 count. Each man's agility is at odds with the others! This time, it's Carlito that rushes in with a clothesline off the roll-up. Christian ducks and nails the Killswitch for the 3 count as Benjamin tries to interrupt the pinfall but is too late.

"If you close your eyes..." Tony Chimel announces Christian as the victor as we see Batista confronting Eddie Guerrero backstage.

"So. I've got a match against you tonight. I might not be a smile and dance guy like you, but I'll admit... the crowd loves you for it, Eddie. And me? Well, I've got a title to gain. It hasn't been easy, that's for sure. Going to the back after a loss, it kind of calms me down to see you carrying on like you do. But... tonight, it just so happens that you're in the way of me doing that. Nothing personal."

Eddie responds with a silent nod as he locks eyes with the animal. "Oh, man, Cole. Batista telling it like it is. Dude's definitely on a warpath. Good luck, Eddie--whew!"

**************************************************************
VIVA LA RAZA!

"Ha-ha! Lying, cheating, stealing Latino Heat! Never get tired of it, Cole! I wonder if he stole that insane ride!"

The humor dies once Batista's music hits, flooring the audience who were contently enjoying Eddie's perky character. The two men stare each other down in the ring, and Latino Heat enrages the Animal throughout the contest, encouraging the wrath of Batista with silly antics that please the crowd. But Eddie is not merely a showman. He can wrestle. After a solid exchange, a would-be crippling spinebuster is reversed into a swinging DDT.

"I'm feeling froggy, baby!"

The crowd shares the sentiment, but Batista is there, racing up the turnbuckle to prevent Eddie's splash. Latino Heat knocks the clumsy brute off and aims the frog splash. It misses.

Batista rolls back up to his feet, stamping the mat in a rage. Eddie is clutching his stomach, slow to regain a vertical stance as Batista hoists him into the air.

"BATISTA BO--"

"EDDIE REVERSES!"

1...2...NO!

Despite the miraculous sunset flip pin attempt, Eddie calls upon the 3 Amigos to seal the Animal's fate. But Batista easily refuses and lifts him into the air, driving him down with that spinebuster intended for earlier use. Defying the crowd, Batista shakes the ropes and lifts Guerrero into the air again, satisfyingly destroying him with a thunderous powerbomb.

He celebrates, but the crowd doesn't approve. Just another rigid day in the life of the Animal.

Meanwhile, the cameras cut backstage to Rey Mysterio, ready to wrestle, who has a grimace on his face at the sight of his friend being overwhelmed by the leviathan Batista. They switch over to Rob Van Dam next, who is shadow boxing in his ring gear, ready for the imminent tables match, and finally swerve to the People's Champion, The Great One...THE ROCK.

Josh Matthews is standing alongside him. "Well, Rock, what are your thoughts going into this tables match?" The Rock's presence electrifies the crowd. He momentarily puts a hand over the microphone to acknowledge the fans that are shouting his name. ROCKY...ROCKY...ROCKY. "Finally... The Rock... has come back...to Colorado...Springs!

The Brahma Bull eyes Matthews and commands the entire WWE Universe into the palm of his hand. "Let The Rock tell you a story, Josh. It's about a little punk by the name of Randy Orton that thinks he's some 'Legend Killer' just because he got lucky and beat The Rock last week on Super SmackDown!. Well, uh-uh! See, The Rock's not a legend..." Matthews looks at him with a puzzled expression. "No, no, no... see, The Rock might have built himself one hell of a legacy with the help of the millions--"

AND MILLIONS!

"Of The Rock's fans, but The Rock isn't going away! The Rock is still on the map! He's still the People's Champion! And tonight, he's going to take his size 14' boot, shine it up nice and stick it straight up the Legend Killer's candy ass!"

"IF YA SMELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL....WHAT THE ROCK.....IS COOKIN'."

Cole and Tazz share their fondness for the Great One and say the match is up next as SD! takes a commercial break.

******************************************
Naturally, the turban-wearing duo are quite a buzz kill as they enter the arena, followed shortly by Orton. Between the 3 of them, not even Mount Everest could overcome the height of their egos. The suffering is brief, luckily, as Rey Mysterio makes his always popular arrival, followed closely by Mr. Thursday Night, Rob Van Dam. Between the two of them, they'll dazzle the crowd with their exciting wrestling styles. But they'll also be the first ones to be victimized by the tables that are positioned all around the squared circle. But that comes after...

IF YA SMELL…WHAT THE ROCK…IS COOKIN'!

"Here we go, Cole! I got goosebumps!"

The match is a violent, intense affair, pace high and by the mili-seconds as Rob Van Dam and Rey Mysterio collectively soar through the air, with both teams developing new creative ways to utilize the tables. Hassan drapes Mysterio over one that has fallen onto its side and locks him in an excruciating Camel Clutch submission hold until RVD's foot breaks it up. For his selfless efforts, however, Randy Orton does his own soaring and RKOs Mr. Thursday Night through a table to gain the first decision of the elimination style contest.

"Damn, Cole! RVD's gone! What an RKO..."

Shortly thereafter, it's the San Diego Sensation that goes flying through a table via a double team move by the two Arabs. Which... leaves The Rock alone in a 3-on-1 predicament. But The Rock digs down to his farthest depths and drops Daivari through a table with a samoan drop. "High Chief Rock getting it done!" Tazz exclaims as Cole announces the change of odds. But Orton & Hassan continue to beat down the disadvantaged People's Champion. After some taunting by Hassan, holding up his arms to a flood of boos from the crowd, he stalls one second too long. The Brahma Bull slips under his arm and slams him through a 2nd table. "ROCK BOTTOM! ROCK BOTTOM!"

"It's down to Orton & Rock now, Cole! O-oh, man!"

The two surviving members show flashes of last week's war in a steel cage, reversing each other's moves, but with more embitterment and animosity than before. Orton, as if being fueled by the tundra of boos, embraces the madness growing inside of him. He flips The Rock onto his shoulders and drives him hard, back down into the canvas, on his neck and spine.

"Orton showing strength I never knew he had with that maneuver, Tazz!"

"Not for nothing, Cole, that was impressive, no doubt!"

The boos grow louder as he maliciously cradles the People's Champion's head and neck into his wicked arms. "Orton's thinking RKO..." and Randy is as his stony eyes regard the nearby table, the only one left in the ring amidst the debris. He takes a running start, with The Rock's head firmly in his grasp, but he fails to secure the Brahma Bull's hands as well.

The crowd erupts into cheers as the self-proclaimed Legend Killer crumbles through the wooden surface, splitting it upon impact. The Rock's intensity is unmatched as he glowers down at Orton, his music playing as the referee cautiously lifts his arm to finalize the victory. "Look at the passion, Tazz, that is swimming in The Rock's eyes." Tazz feels like Orton got what he had coming to him.

But -

The cameras jump to a close-up zoom shot of a gold medal resting in the palm of Kurt Angle's hand. In his black, white and red attire, the Olympic Champion is ready to go to war. The band rests comfortably around his thick neck as the conviction in his eyes rivals The Rock's. The camera cuts to the World Heavyweight Champion, lights flickering in his dressing room as a pale white pair of eyes lurks in the darkness.

********************************************

In a showdown, it is clear these two men have studied each other well. Tenacious and unyielding, one reverses a leg drop on the apron into the ankle lock while the other scrambles over the security barrier, hopping over it to break the hold in the Falls Count Anywhere match. It is reversed into Hell's Gate, recently modified and reinstated by GM Teddy Long, as the challenger struggles awkwardly pinned over the barrier with the champion's massively sinister legs scrunched around his neck. Incredibly, the challenger desperately slips out.

A clothesline is evaded, and the champion is sent crashing onto the floor, twinges of pain shooting up his spine. "Angle Slam!" A 2 count follows, as the wrestling purist throws the champion back into the ring, frustrations growing to a fever pitch. But the Tombstone Piledriver threatens to make his pain go away, only if he doesn't slip out and claw at an ankle.

"The champion scrambling again, trying to break the hold..."

"The challenger trying to break the champ's ankle, ya mean!"

Angle is caught in the retaliatory snare of Hell's Gate, a clever counter to the grueling ankle lock. Angle lifts the champion off the canvas and slams him down to break the hold.

Moments pass in suspense, the collective heart of the audience stricken with nerves as to what might befall either popular superstar. The action tumbles outside of the ring again, and a steel chair extinguishes a portion of the challenger's frustration as it bangs off the champion's head. Removing the straps of his ring attire, Angle is roaring and set to finish this war.

He prepares the Undertaker for a 2nd Angle Slam, wrecking Tazz & Cole's table in the process. Slipping behind the champion, he pops his hips and squeezes on his hopes.

"Goozled, Cole!"

"CHOKESLAM through the TABLE!"

The audience has collapsed into aftershock. The match is over and the challenger is motionless amidst the pile of technical debris. "The - Phenom - is - victorious!"