GCB's WWE

[GCB]

We’re down to six men now – Cena, Miz, Kane, Kofi, Angle and the Undertaker – as we head towards the climax of the match and the discovery of which man will be heading to the main event of WresstleMania 27 in Atlanta. A loud ‘Cena sucks!’ chant begins as we see Mysterio being helped out of the arena in shock at the way he was eliminated by his former friend, Cena. Taker drags Miz back into the ring after he laid down a real beating to the Cleveland native on the outside but as soon as he follows Miz in, his brother, the Devil’s Favourite Demon Kane, takes his chance and kicks Taker hard in the head. Miz scrambles out of the way and leaves Kane to it whilst Angle continues to lay the boot into Kofi. Cena stands at the ropes and watches the exit of Mysterio whilst taunting the Mexican and grinning round at the WWE Universe. Cena then heads over towards Angle and Kofi and looks to the Olympian before joining in with him in attacking Kofi who has annoyed him recently on SMACKDOWN. Miz rolls out of the ring and he sits up against the announce table recovering and surveying the scene in the ring. Taker and Kane are trading blows as they look to destroy each other and their history of late means it is getting very personal between them. Kane, starting to lose out to his brother, decides to resort to dirty tactics as he rakes the eyes of Taker and then rams his head into the turnbuckle several times. However, Undertaker is determined to beat the pain threshold and get some revenge over Kane and he simply stands up, his eyes bulging in anger. He ducks Kane’s attempted clothesline and hits the ropes, BAM! Big boot to the face of Kane and down he goes.

Undertaker cuts across his throat and the WWE Universe rise as he prepares to finish Kane off. Taker waits for Kane to get up but, as he is waiting, Taker’s attention is distracted by Cena who stands staring at him. There is a fusion of electricity around the arena as two of the WWE’s biggest legends come face to face. The distraction though costs Taker and Kane barges into him from behind. As Taker comes round, Kane grabs him by the throat ... CHOKE SLAM! KANE CHOKE SLAMS UNDERTAKER! Undertaker is down and Kane stands over him laughing maniacally. Jeers echo around the arena but then they turn to roars of excitement as Undertaker sits up. Kane uses his boot to knock Taker back down, he has seen all of this before. Taker is down again but then he sits up again. BAM! Kane knocks him down again with his boot but again Taker sits up a few moments later. Another attempt at knocking him back down by Kane but this time Taker catches his boot, twists it so that he is off balance and then gets to his feet quickly. Undertaker launches right hands to Kane that catch him in the throat area, he staggers Kane back and then grabs his arm – time for another attempt at Old School! Up goes Taker, balancing on the ropes, Kane cannot react this time and Taker drops a heavy arm across his back and shoulders. Kane staggers back to his feet and Taker scoops him up ... Huge anticipation around the arena, they are on their feet – here we go! TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER! UNDERTAKER DROPS HIS BROTHER ON HIS HEAD! Kane is flat out and not moving as Undertaker kneels over him – he’d normally pin his opponent now but not in the Rumble. Cena is now busy fighting it out with Miz who is back in the ring, Kofi and Angle are still fighting and Undertaker has his chance to take out the Big Red Monster once and for all. Kane gets to his knees and Undertaker forces him back to the corner, lifting his leg up over the top rope, looking to eliminate him. Kane tries to fight back but Undertaker is too strong here. Undertaker realises that he is struggling to heave his brother over the top rope but he reconsiders his approach, comes off the ropes ...

A Big Boot from Taker sends Kane crashing over the rope and down to the mat as the crowd go mad!
– KANE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –

Undertaker looks down on his brother who is down and out on the floor. He drops to his knee and cuts his throat, his tongue snaking out, he is delighted to have eliminated his brother. As Taker gets back up, it is Cena who comes over towards him and attacks. Cena has finally decided to show some guts and go after the biggest dog in the yard. As Undertaker is stumbling back, Cena taunts him and looks to be making out that he is the big dog on SMACKDOWN now. Cena goes to the top rope and waits for Undertaker to get to his knees before coming off the top, leg drop to the back of the Undertaker’s head and shoulders again, it drives the Phenom down into the mat. Cena senses a massive opportunity and he lifts Undertaker onto his shoulders, here it comes ... NO! Cena cannot hold Taker, he wriggles clear and comes off the ropes. Cena ducks the attempted clothesline and Undertaker is caught by a huge right hand from Kane who is back on the apron and dismayed at the way he was eliminated. Up onto Cena’s shoulders goes Undertaker again and Cena positions himself near the rope. This time though, Kane has hold of Undertaker as well to prevent him escaping. Cena goes for it ...

CENA FU’S UNDERTAKER OVER THE TOP ROPE WITH KANE’S ASSISTANCE!
– UNDERTAKER HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –

The WWE Universe is in complete shock, Kane and John Cena have teamed up to eliminate Undertaker. With Undertaker down on the floor, Cena taunts him from the ring by waving his hand across his face – what a huge moment that was! Kane makes his way back down the aisle with a smug look on his face with his brother, the Deadman, in pain on the floor. Miz is the next to make his way over to Undertaker, he suffered a beating from Taker earlier and he takes his chance to rub it in. He tells Undertaker that he is going to win the Royal Rumble because he is the main man in the WWE! Undertaker responds by grabbing Miz by the throat to the delight of the fans at ringside ... CHOKE SLAM ON THE FLOOR OUTSIDE THE RING! Miz writhes in pain on the floor and Undertaker now decides to go after Kane who is still in view. Cena is stood in the ring and watching Taker leave, he arrogantly waves to him as he leaves. However, as Kane and Taker disappear, Cena’s face drops in shock as he notices something else. The WWE Universe are going crazy, they have seen it too ...

HERE COMES RANDY ORTON!

Orton is struggling but is heading for the ring, he is determined to get revenge on Cena and this could be his only chance to do it. Cena backs away to the centre of the ring and beckons to Orton to get in the ring if he dares. It appears that the Viper does dare and he rolls into the ring where he is met by the right boot of Cena. He kicks him over and over and it is clear that Orton is nowhere near 100% right. He has been in the Rumble since the very start and has maybe had ten minutes where he has not been fighting it out – and that was after Cena had beaten him senseless backstage. On the other hand, Cena is fairly fresh and he is in control of the situation despite his shock at seeing Orton return. Cena lifts Orton to his feet and then hits a succession of shoulder blocks on the run, the move that used to get him thousands of cheers in the past but doesn’t now. Cena then uses his patented Protoplex suplex to drop Orton on his back once more and then he stands over the Viper with a knowing look in his eyes. Boos erupt as Cena looks down onto the face of Orton and he waves his hands across his face = “You can’t see me!” – before lifting his head and doing the same to all the WWE Universe at ringside as well ... FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE FROM CENA TO ORTON! Cena steps back and waits for Orton to get up but his opponent knows him too well and, despite a draining past hour, Orton still has the energy to roll and scramble out of the ring. Cena looks annoyed but he follows his foe and stalks after him. He rushes up behind him and grabs his neck before running him towards the announce tables and flinging him into them. Orton flies over the top and collides heavily with the Spanish announce team who are knocked over in the mayhem. Angle and Miz are continuing to work on eliminating Kofi in the ring but the attention is on the outside as Cena and Orton’s feud gets real personal now. Cena drags Orton up and throws him onto the top of the announce table. He scrambles up as well and he looks pleased with whatever he is thinking of here. He lifts Orton onto his shoulders and positions himself to FU Orton through the other table. The crowd realise what is coming and scream in dismay, Cena sets himself but Orton fights his way out and shoves Cena hard. Flung forward, Cena jumps from one table to the other, turns to go back towards a wounded Orton ... RKO! ORTON RKO’S CENA ON THE ANNOUNCE TABLE! The announce table where Lawler and JR are commentating begins to break under the impact of Cena but doesn’t completely cave in. Cena is writhing in pain on top of Lawler’s notes and JR’s iPad that are still on the table ...

A ‘Holy Sh*t!’ chant breaks out and both Cena and Orton are down unable to appreciate the chant. It is Orton that finds the energy to slide off his table first and he stumbles to the corner of the ring where he proceeds to loosen the ring steps now as well. The crowd urge him on as Cena begins to move and fall off his announce table. Orton musters all the strength he has and lifts the steps up with both hands. Holding them in front of him, Orton waits for Cena to stand up and rushes over ... BAM! STEEL STEPS TO THE FACE OF CENA! But Orton took a whack as well, he was weakened so much that they slipped and connected with his face too, both men are down on the outside. The WWE Universe take a breath as the camera focuses back on Miz, Angle and Kofi in the ring, three of the five men left in the Rumble. By the look of Cena and Orton outside the ring, one of these three will be going to WrestleMania 27 as the Rumble winner! Miz and Angle have teamed well but they cannot eliminate the flexible Kingston as he wraps around the ropes like Spiderman! Frustration rears its head for the tiring Miz as he suddenly shoves Angle hard in the chest and complains about his efforts. Angle, despite his recent heel turn, doesn’t take kindly to this and he shoves Miz back. A fist fight ensues and the pair of them trade right hands for a while until ... suddenly, Kofi comes flying off the top turnbuckle, DOUBLE DIVING CROSSBODY! Kofi takes both Miz and Angle down with a crossbody from about twenty feet in the air – OK, OK, slight ‘wrestling’ exaggeration there! The crowd get behind Kofi, he now looks to be in with a chance of taking out one of the disliked two left in the ring. Kofi sets and it appears that Angle will be up to his feet first, he is fresher than Miz of course. Up gets Angle, Kofi spins ... TROUBLE IN PA ... No! Angle ducks! Kofi is stuck with his right leg over the top rope, can he get back in time?

Miz barges into Kofi as he is over the rope and eliminates him!
– KOFI KINGSTON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –

Huge boos in the arena, many wanted to see the underdog win the match but Miz has eliminated Kofi Kingston now and we are down to four men. Miz, Angle, Orton and Cena on the outside – although Orton is now scraping his way back into the ring. A disappointed Kofi is seen making his exit as Angle and Miz consider resuming their fight or going after Orton instead? However, Orton has no eyes for them, he has seen Cena scrambling back into the ring and coming through the ropes! Orton grabs Cena by the head and drags him in, feet positioned on the middle rope ... HANGMAN DDT! Orton appears rejuvenated here, he has found a second wind from somewhere even though he has now been in the Rumble for almost an hour. Miz heads over to Orton ready to pounce ... RKO! ORTON HITS AN RKO TO MIZ! Wow! Orton turns and sees Angle coming, he adjusts himself ... OLYMPIC SLAM! ORTON HITS ANGLE WITH THE OLYMPIC SLAM! That will not go down well with Kurt Angle of course who uses that move himself – namely the Angle Slam! Orton gets slowly to his feet and surveys the damage he has caused now, he waits and it is Angle who gets up first. The Olympic Gold Medal Winner is infuriated by Orton’s use of his move and he rushes towards Orton looking for a clothesline. Orton ducks, Angle hits the ropes and heads back towards the Viper ...

Orton lifts Angle into a flapjack move and untidily drops him back over the top rope!
– KURT ANGLE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –

Huge cheers now for the Viper, he is in complete control! Angle lands with a huge bump on the outside and he is down and out and eliminated! We are down to three men! WHO WILL WIN THE RUMBLE? Orton looks down on Angle with a tired but arrogant smile on his face, he is ready to win the match now! BAM! Cena barrels into the Viper and catches him off-guard, Cena pounds away at Orton yet again. However, Orton is desperate to win, he begins to trade punches with Cena, the crowd cheering Orton’s strikes and jeering Cena’s. Orton goes for yet another RKO to Cena after he staggers him but Cena shoves Orton aside this time and the fist fight continues. Cena tries to set Orton up on his shoulders for the FU but again Orton wriggles clear, both these men are desperate to win! Suddenly, here is Miz, staggering and bewildered, confused and disorientated. He stumbles between Orton and Cena who look to each other. A thought flashes over both their eyes and Orton nods his agreement to Cena. Miz staggers towards Cena who lifts him on his shoulders ... Here we go! FU TO MIZ! CENA HITS THE FU! Miz crashes down on the mat, he is really in trouble now. A ceasefire has broken out between Cena and Orton, their fight has ended and Orton is now stalking Cleveland’s own. He waits and waits ... RKO! RKO TO MIZ! What a destruction of the Awesome One this is! Cena and Orton look to each other once more, they each grab Miz and drag him up to his feet ...

Orton and Cena throw Miz over the top rope and out of the Rumble!
– THE MIZ HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –

FINAL TWO MEN!

Can Randy Orton win from Number 1 in the Royal Rumble?

Can John Cena destroy Orton’s dream and make good on his promise to win the Royal Rumble?

As Miz staggers away, Orton and Cena resume their fight, the crowd are on their feet now! Yet again, Cena goes for an FU but Orton, tired and running off the last dregs of adrenaline, manages to wriggle clear again! He whips Cena to the ropes, snap scoop slam and Cena’s back crashes down to the mat. Slowly, Orton gets up, he can’t get to Cena as quick as he wants to.He calculates which limb to target and then he stomps down on Cena’s right knee. Round Cena he walks, striking and stomping every exposed limb of SMACKDOWN’s last survivor in the Rumble. Orton looks down at Cena and a look passes his eyes, the WWE Universe understand. He retreats to the corner of the ring, Orton stands in the corner holding the ropes and winding himself up, bringing himself to boiling point ... Cena slowly gets to his knees, he is down on all fours and struggling up, head exposed, here is Orton’s chance ... Orton lets go of the ropes and goes to strike with the Punt to Cena’s skull ... Will he knock Cena cold and win the Rumble?

Noooo! Wait a minute! What is Kurt Angle doing? Angle trips Orton as he starts to head towards Cena to hit the Punt. Orton trips and stumbles down to his knees before turning and glaring at Angle on the outside. Orton gets to his feet, he is seething with rage. He looks down at Angle from the ring and talks trash to him. Angle is angry still, that is clear, he jumps up on the apron and Orton goes for him. On the ring apron, Angle fights Orton over the top rope, Orton in the ring and fighting hard ... The crowd are screaming at Orton but he is too busy fighting with Angle ... Behind you, Randy! Behind you! BEHIND YOU!

Cena sneaks up behind Orton, lifts his legs up and tosses him over the top rope!
– RANDY ORTON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED! –

WINNER
JOHN CENA
(61:36)

JIM ROSS
Orton is up and ovvverrrr ... Cena! Cena! Cena wins the Rumble!

Orton sinks to his knees on the outside with his hands on his head as the head referee slides into the ring and raises the arm of the Cena who is now heading for WrestleMania 27 as the winner of the Royal Rumble match. The referee has to help Cena to stand as he is a little beaten after the Rumble but he realises what has happened and smirks with his hand raised as his music, ‘My Time is Now!’, begins to blare out around the arena ...

JIM ROSS
At WrestleMania 27, King, it will be John Cena challenging for either the WWE or World Championship!

JERRY LAWLER
Thank goodness he is on SMACKDOWN, JR, he’s going to be unbearable about this! Poor Orton!

Cena locks eyes on Orton who is in despair on the outside of the ring, the number one entrant into the Rumble came so close to winning the whole thing. As the Viper looks up at Cena in the ring, Cena laughs and points up to the WrestleMania 27 sign which angers Orton once again. Orton gets to his feet and he begins to climb into the ring but the referees swarm around him and begin to hold him back. Cena continues to stand in the ring and taunt the Viper but he cannot get into the ring due to the referees. Finally, Orton breaks clear and heads through the ropes but Cena makes his exit and heads off into the aisle as Cena’s music fades out. Orton jumps back through the ropes and makes to chase Cena down the aisle towards the titantron but yet again the referees hold him back and are now joined by security who also stand between Cena and Orton.

JIM ROSS
Remember, King, Orton was told he cannot touch Cena unless it is in an official match!

JERRY LAWLER
The rivalry between these two is so intense, Orton cannot be punished if he gets his hands on Cena right here!

As Orton is held back from Cena – stood near the entrance into the arena – the WWE owner Chip Butty makes an appearance beside Cena. He says something to Cena before heading over towards Orton who is still being restrained by security. Butty stands in earshot of Orton and he says something that we can’t hear but it appears to calm Orton down although he still looks incredibly annoyed ...

JIM ROSS
An incredible effort from Orton, he just came up short but it will be Cena who heads for WrestleMania 27 to challenge for the title ...

As the security shepherd Orton past Cena, Kurt Angle – the man who caused the damage to Orton for Cena to eliminate him – heads past too. Orton sees him coming and quick as a flash hits an RKO to the Olympic Hero!

JERRY LAWLER
RKO! RKO!

Orton stands over the fallen Angle as Cena makes his way backwards back towards the ring and stares down the aisle towards the man he eliminated to win the Rumble. Loud boos echo around the arena as Cena slides back into the ring and begins his celebrations again with his music restarting as well. As Cena stands pointing to the WrestleMania sign, SMACKDOWN General Manager Michael Cole slides into the ring and congratulates his man on winning the Rumble for SMACKDOWN ...

JIM ROSS
An intense night here in Cleveland, Ohio, Wade Barrett and CM Punk retain their titles, we have new Tag Team Champions in the British Empire and John Cena has won the Rumble, he will head to WrestleMania in ten weeks time to challenge for a title. Good night everybody ...

As the Royal Rumble logo pops up in the corner of the screen to signal the end of the PPV, Cena is shown with his hand raised by Cole as he continues his celebrations and the camera makes sure, as you’d expect, to include the WrestleMania 27 logo in the background ... ​

Spoiler

RESULTS:
Ted DiBiase defeated Daniel Bryan in a Ladder Match to secure the #1 contender spot for the US Championship
Kaval won the NXT Battle Royal to earn immunity from elimination in the first two eliminations
Wade Barrett defeated Triple H to retain the WWE Championship
William Regal and Mason Ryan (British Empire) won Tag Team Turmoil to win the Tag Team Championships
CM Punk defeated Christian to retain the World Championship
John Cena won the 2011 Royal Rumble match to earn a WrestleMania 27 main event title match

I really, really hope you enjoyed the show, it was a humdinger of a PPV to write. I’m sorry it took so long, the Rumble match seemed to go on forever and ever and I got very bogged down in the middle of it, i.e. 11-20. I’ve tried to forward a lot of feuds in the Rumble with some of the returning guys and some of the guys who were previously feuding. Next up, Elimination Chamber in four weeks time! I’m incredibly proud to be the first person to write a really, really in depth Rumble round these here parts so please, please, please leave some feedback! I’ll calculate the prediction contest scores very soon. Then I can start planning how to get to Elimination Chamber! Woooooooooo! GCB

p.s. If you think about doing a Rumble match, my advice – don’t! God, it takes some doing!

 

[GCB]

ROYAL RUMBLE PREDICTION CONTEST

The highest possible score in the prediction contest was 13 - you could have scored 1 point for the Bryan/DiBiase match, up to 3 points on the NXT Battle Royal, 1 point for the Barrett/HHH match, up to 2 points on Tag Team Turmoil, 1 point for the Punk/Christian match and up to 5 points for the Royal Rumble.

NOBODY SCORED 13!

I have continued the scores from Vengeance's predictions:

1st: Peep (11 + 10 = 21)
2nd: Global Icon (7 + 10 = 17)
3rd: Mr. HD (8 + 8 = 16)
4th: Theo (4 + 10 = 14)
5th: Prophet (10 + 2 = 12); JAM/Mister Dela Cruz (6 + 6 = 12)
7th: Terry Gyimah (7 + 4 = 11)
8th: That Weird Guy (0 + 10 = 10)
9th: therock2011 (9 + 0 = 9)
10th: punkanomics (0 + 8 = 8)
11th: workhorse (0 + 6 = 6)
12th: All That Jazz (5 + 0 = 5); IHW (0 + 5 = 5)
14th: The Sign Guy (4 + 0 = 4); The Best (4 + 0 = 4); The Cult of Personality (0 + 4 = 4)
17th: Michael (Awesome) (2 + 0 = 2)

Top Scorers (Rumble): Theo, Peep, Global Icon and That Weird Guy all scored 10​

 

[The Cult]

Well GCB, it's here! And I've got to say it was definitely worth the wait, it's the best PPV I've ever read. Here is what I thought:

Everything was perfect! From the video package to start the show and every match, you furthered so many storylines and to be honest I was shocked to see Cena win the Rumble, I just didn't expect it. Your format was very good and so were the graphics you used, and I loved the finish to CM Punk vs. Christian, it really showed Christian wouldn't give up on his dream. Y2J is back too! simply phenomenal. You furthered so many storylines, excellent show GCB!

 

[JamJam]

Jam's Review
​

WOOO! It's finally here man. This is probably the most anticipated show of the section so I'm really looking forward to reading it. It'll be live feedback so yeah, here we go!

Interesting that you had the ladder match go on first. I think it's a pretty good one to go with since you'll have it out of the way. However, I kind of wasn't feeling this match. It was as if each guy threw all they had at one another but every time, the guy would recover rather quickly. Maybe it was a little low on details but with the Royal Rumble Match having to be written, it may have burnt you out. I did like that spot where Bryan performed the German Suplex on Dibiase from the ladder, that was cool. That part where you added in that Gabriel was watching who his opponent would be was good too as it really makes the belt something credible since Gabriel doesn't want to lose it. Hopefully after this loss, you're setting up Bryan for bigger and better things while building a new midcard or potentially main event star in Dibiase.

Glad to see that the Divas are getting some attention. Still not sure about the pairing of Kharma and McCool since they're pretty good solo but I'll just roll with it for now. The Divas Division is surely improving in this thread, slowly but surely.

Now for the NXT stuff. I like how your go about your NXT business. JBL is a great choice for a mentor and so is the Rock. JBL's team is superior to Rocky's team but you could pull out some surprises. What I take from that battle royal is that some, maybe all of those guys on NXT are here to stay. They just needed some air time and this was a way to do it. With the winner being Kaval, it's really interesting to see where you go from here. You had some physical interactions between the mentors and even Santino plays a part, all storyline going on here which makes me think everyone is here to stay.

This sure was a battle for the WWE Title. I kind of thought that Barrett would have called off his Nexus here and prevailed giving him the credibility. Kind of dislike Barrett a little now that you didn't use this chance to really build him up here. But I think that you have something in store for this so I wouldn't count this out just yet. I just thought that at the Royal Rumble, it would've been the perfect place and time for Barrett to be given the rub from HHH. I guess this whole idea where HHH buries talent exists here too? Lol. But it was a good written match GCB. This is not negative comments at all, just giving my opinion. And whaaat?! Y2J? OHHHH YEAAAAH!

Underhanded tactics sure are the trend right now just like JR said. Your tag team division is certainly going places and with you crowning new tag champions, I fully expect you to give us a show with your division. Don't mind the new tag team champions, it was kind of obvious that they would win but I also thought that the Broskis would've had a better shot with their winning streak and all. Not much to say about the tag team match, but good job here. Wanting more, but I'm sure you'll deliver on that.

No feel good moment here for Christian? Aww, but that's really the right decision as Punk needed to retain here. Having Cole come out made me think that either Christian would be far away from the World Title or he'll be even closer, don't know yet. And with how the ending went, it's all just cliffhanger here, and I don't mind that. This was definitely match of the night for me, but maybe the Rumble will change that. And good face time for Miz here. Hmm, maybe he really could win since you had him be interviewed. I'm really lost at who will win the Rumble, good job, haha.

Wow, what a Rumble. While I don't agree with Rocky being in it, since you could've used to for another purpose like putting over someone, I guess you didn't it to further the angst that he has with JBL. All the surprise entrants were really good. Interesting to see HBK come back but he surely wasn't going to win. The two people who I thought had the best showing were Edge and Miz. You've furthered their own storylines with the way that they got eliminated, which is all we can really ask for. I commend you on doing a Rumble match, it must've been a real pain. Seeing that Orton came #1, I was checking back and re-reading everything to see that he didn't get eliminated yet. What a tease you had with the final two being Cena and Orton, well played GCB, well played. I kind of did not like how Orton was eliminated, but this sets him up for something with Kurt Angle.

With all that said, I still don't think that this way your best Pay-Per-View. I still think that Survivor Series was your best and maybe you'd agree too. Up next is Elimination Chamber, you've got a lot of feuds that you can go with. It's just a matter of pulling the trigger. You set everything up nicely and thinking of it, you could go a ton of ways with Cena here. I definitely am amp'd to see what you come up with in the fallout of RAW. Kudos GCB. GREAT, GREAT JOB.

Man, this took about about five hours in all to read and feedback on. And oh man, didn't do too well in the predictions, ohwell!

 

[The Cult]

Ok that feedback was pretty poor, and I apologize but I'm new to this. I'm now going to do a live review for the Rumble.

TheCult's Royal Rumble live review/feedback

Opening
Nice opening video GCB, really highlighted the importance of the Rumble, especially it's importance in the road to WrestleMania.

Bryan vs. Dibiase
Ok, first match is Daniel Bryan vs.Ted DiBiase in a Ladder match, I predicted a DiBiase victory here but I found it tough to call. It may sound stupid but despite me predicting a DiBiase win I want Bryan to win A strong match between these two with some good spots, I imagine a Dream Street off the Ladder would look amazing. I'm surprised but happy with DiBiase getting the win, I just wonder when DiBiase will face Justin Gabriel for the US title. Would of liked a Bryan win but only because Gabriel and him would put on a great match.

Kharma and McCool
To be honest, I'm not the biggest fan of Kharma and McCool together. However I liked the attack on Layla and Maryse backstage it showed some aggression from the Divas.

NXT Battle Royal
We start with a bit of The Rock on the mic, which is never a bad thing. I sometimes feel that The Rock is too big a star for NXT though. Now we get started with Rock and JBL on the outside I expect they will be involved somehow, and yeah JBL distracts R-Truth for him to be eliminated by Mcintyre. I honestly couldn't imagine referees pulling JBL off the apron though to be honest. There goes MVP, I always liked him when he was in the WWE, I'm now sensing Kaval could win this. NO! there goes Koslov, I think I predicted him to win but Santino getting involved kind of annoys me, I think he would of ran back up the ramp instead of his hilairious strut. Ziggler gone... I don't think he should have been on NXT but oh well, what a huge elimination for Mcintyre he's my winner now. And another we're down to two, WOAH! Kaval roundhouse kick to JBL and a Rock Bottom! Looks like I was right about them getting involved. Damn Kaval wins, not to bothered as it didn't bother me who won out of the remaining two.

We then got an interview segment with Angle and Matthews, we see Angle still going on about winning gold with a broken neck, Ok interview but I don't really like Kurt's reasoning for costing HHH.

Barrett vs. HHH
I predicted Barrett retaining here, mainly due to Nexus being at ringside. Phew, I was a bit worried the match would end with the countout victory but thank you HBK! Thought it was over! I didn't think Barrett would kickout from the Pedigree. Well Barrett wins, I thought the match would go a little longer but considering it's the Rumble I'm not that surprised, happy with my fellow Brit retaining but I don't think these two are finished.

YES! Jericho is back, maybe you could have left him for a surprise entrant in the Rumble, even though Lawler ask if Y2J could be returning tonight it's a safe bet that he is. I also see from the image he's got his long hair back!

Tag Team Turmoil
The match starts with the champs and The Usos, I would imagine that the Broskis will beat the Usos here, and yeah they do, making short work of them. Ok Hart Dynasty next... I'm going to say Broskis win again here but it's a tough one to call. And we will have new champs but I don't see Hart Dynasty walking out of Cleveland with the belts, WOW! 43 seconds, nice attack from the Empire beforehand and they will be champions, Evan and Henry won't be taking the titles from them here. And I'm right Empire new champs. You've got a good tag division here GCB!

Punk interview... I don't know why he says 'CM Punk's time has come!' because he's been champion for a while now, never the less this should be a good match.

CM Punk vs. Christian
Great match GCB, I predicted Punk to retain and I was right. Christian puts in a great showing though and I thought he could capture his dream at some points. As I said in my poorer feedback before, the ending really showed Christian wouldn't give up on his dream, a great ending.

Royal Rumble
Here we go! I'm guessing this was really hard to write, but you've wrote it very well. I've got to agree with JAM I wasn't too big on The Rock entering however what a huge elimination for The Miz! HBK enters and has an altercation with Edge... I was fine with HBK entering the Rumble despite being retired but it looks like he and Edge will face off soon after the Spear, I'm not to big on that however I think HBK should stay retired. Well the final six... I've got a funny feeling Miz might steal it. Nope wrong Miz is out Cena and Orton remaining, both men are beat up especially from the RKO on the announce table, Cena wins! didn't expect it to be honest, Chip Butty says something to calm down Orton, I have no idea what it could be.

I really enjoyed the pay per view GCB and it is my favourite of the ones you have wrote, I'm a sucker for a Royal Rumble match. Great show and I'm looking forward to RAW.

 

[Skairipa Matrix]

SXEnightmare's Review:

Well GCB this is my first time checking out your work and I must say WOW! This was just insane no wonder it took so long with all the work you put into the show. Loved the rumble match easily best match of the night I had no idea who would win but towards the end I began to think Undertaker was gonna take the victory which didnt come true oh well.

I dont really have any complaints besides the fact Michelle McCool and Khrama seems random sense when Khrama debuted she laid out McCool. Im sure everything is done for a purpose and it was cool seeing guys like HBK,RVD and Jericho be surprise enterants in the Royal Rumble Match. Also cant wait for Gabriel vs Dibiase that seems like its gonna be pretty good!

Overall this took me all day to read as I was reading it match by match when I got a chance during the day and im a fan of your work your a pretty good writer looking forward to see where things go from here.

 

[Theo Mays]

Bearded Review

-FINALLY!!! Here it is, the PPV we've all been dying to read. Can't wait for it GCB, that intro video was steak sauce sir. Lets get to the actual show.

-Well written match (as always) and Dibiase was the right choice. We've seen DB in the US title picture and now you can venture him out and do better things with him. Meanwhile Dibiase has a chance to rise up (which I'm glad you're doing) and take on another rising star in Gabriel. Well done.

-Kaval winning the NXT match was something I expected but wasn't 100 percent certain on it. Kaval has been built up as the "lovable loser" so to speak and it fits that he gets to stick around. Well done and we have serious tension between JBL, Rock, Kaval, MVP, etc. Keep up the work here on NXT, well done.

-Nexus helping Barrett continuing. Smart booking, but like I said in the past I want to see if Wade can do it on his own. Hopefully that gets the chance to happen, but it really shows Wade's "needing" of his group. Angle's promo before hand was hit or miss for me. The ending really brought me in though. Can't see Angle winning the Rumble tonight though. Question is, what feud (if any) will stem from his elimination? Y2J return, AWESOME! Actually something different with Jericho returning with long hair. Can't wait to see what happens with him.

-New tag champs and you obviously want Regal and Ryan to be a strong team here and they looked damn good tonight. A feud with Cryme Tyme can be expected (at least from me). I look forward to that as the two are complete opposites. Could be fun writing. That CM Punk promo was fantastic. Really drew me in and has me thinking Christian could pull off the upset, but I'm still doubtful there as Punk could use a world title defense at Mania more than Christian.

-My goodness, match of the night in my eyes (excluding the Rumble of course). You really built up the dream of Christian and he just wouldn't let it die. Fantastic match, you had me from the get go to the final bell. Definitely up there in terms of favorites of matches that I've read. Kudos sir. Gotta wonder where Christian goes from here, I look forward to that along with Punk's continued rise through SD's main event. The hometown "hero" gets the final say before the Rumble and it was well done. Miz has really built himself up and even with the MITB shot, he is still a favorite to win this thing.

-That Rumble match, holy Hanna Barbera was that amazing. Great returns and such. Once JBL came in, I knew Rock would be involved and HBK's return was a pleasant surprise, though I've been sensing a potential return with Edge at WM. Could be wrong as the announcers mentioned a one time thing, but who knows. Angle and Orton seems to be foreshadow here, I dig that. Cena winning, he was one of my top choices and now we can see where Cena goes from here. Considering we have two heel champs (at the moment) it will be interesting. This match was amazing and you can see all the hard work you put into ooze out. I dread the moment Peep and I get to this, though I also look forward to the torture. I can't imagine how hard it must be and I applaud you sir. You continue to out due yourself here and you are now *this close* to Wrestlemania. I can't wait for that build up. I bow down to my friend.

 

[GCB]

TWITTER COMMENTS FROM WWE SUPERSTARS FOLLOWING ROYAL RUMBLE PPV:

 

[GCB]

Monday January 24th, 2011 | U.S. Bank Arena, Cincinnati, Ohio​

After the excitement of last night’s Royal Rumble PPV, Monday Night RAW travelled from Cleveland to Cincinnati to begin the build towards the Elimination Chamber PPV in four weeks time as well as the opening steps on the Road to WrestleMania 27. Last night’s PPV saw Wade Barrett retain his WWE Championship in controversial circumstances as Nexus conspired with him to eventually finish the challenger, Triple H. Despite a SMACKDOWN superstar winning the Royal Rumble in John Cena, there was talk that Cena may appear on RAW which set alarm bells ringing regarding the state of mind of Randy Orton after he managed to hang in the match from first entrant to final elimination. Unfortunately, Kurt Angle once again proceeded to get involved and it remains to be seen whether or not there will be more to come for the American Hero regarding Orton. Still in his home state of Ohio, the Money in the Bank contract holder, The Miz, was bound to have words of wisdom whilst we also have a new US Championship Number 1 contender crowned in Ted DiBiase – would he be looking to cash in that chance against US Champion Justin Gabriel sooner rather than later?

After the pyro explosions had died down, Triple H wasted no time in heading out towards the ring with plenty clearly on his mind. He didn’t look happy and it proved to be the case as he slammed Wade Barrett for being the worst WWE Champion of all time and demanded a rematch with the Brit. Challenging Barrett to prove he is a worthy champion, Triple H called him out to accept a match tonight for the WWE Championship, an idea that the Cincinnati crowd loved the thought of. However, they were soon to be disappointed when Kurt Angle headed out their way instead of the champion. Immediately, Triple H warned Angle that if he came down and got into the ring, he would hurt him. Wisely, Angle remained on the stage and began to mock Triple H for failing to win the title when he had his big chance. The Olympian stated that Triple H had “had his chance” and that the Game should now head to the back of the queue to allow a guy who had a successful Rumble to take his chance at the gold instead. This comment brought on the RAW General Manager Shawn Michaels, who didn’t stay on the stage, and he joined his friend in the ring. HBK told Triple H that unfortunately he had had his chance but he would get another before explaining that there would be four matches tonight to determine four RAW superstars who would face each other next week for the right to challenge Barrett at the Elimination Chamber PPV. HBK followed this by announcing that the RAW Elimination Chamber match would determine the Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 27 after SMACKDOWN won the Rumble. Next week’s three losers will be given the first three spots in the Chamber match with three other places up for grabs in Qualifying Matches. Sensing that he would be involved, Triple H asked about his chance that HBK had just mentioned. To the delight of Triple H, HBK announced that the main event would be Triple H vs. Kurt Angle with the winner to be in next week’s Fatal Four Way.

TAG MATCH: Major Broskis Zack Ryder & Curt Hawkins vs. Carlito & RVD
After losing their Tag Team Championships last night at the Rumble, Hawkins and Ryder seemed pumped up to get back on track as the match began with RVD and one of the surprise entrants in the Rumble, Carlito. Initially, the former Tag Champions seemed to be on course and came so close to victory when Ryder hit the Broski Boot and Hawkins narrowly missed with the Heat Seeking Elbow. However, a sudden Backstabber to Hawkins by Carlito changed the momentum and RVD took down Ryder with a series of kicks followed by the Frog Splash to earn the three count. WINNERS: Carlito & RVD (7:35) >>> After the match, a disappointed Curt Hawkins again turned his back on Ryder and walked away, a disgusted look on his face. What does this mean for the former Tag Team Champions? Carlito grabbed a microphone and thanked RVD for partnering him tonight and then announced that he had signed a new deal with the WWE and would be wrestling on RAW and SMACKDOWN in the coming weeks before announcing which brand he would join at the Elimination Chamber.

Backstage, Josh Mathews interviewed the new Number 1 contender for the US Championship, Ted DiBiase. DiBiase, who beat Daniel Bryan in a Ladder match last night, was understandably delighted with the win and declared that he was now on the path to superstardom in the WWE. He announced that he would decide later on when he would challenge Justin Gabriel for the US Championship but promised it would be soon and that he would become the US Champion when he did. The camera switched to show that Justin Gabriel had been watching all along and he looked amused by what he was hearing. However, that amusement left when he noticed the arrival of his former Nexus team-mates in the room with him. Confronting Heath Slater, David Otunga, Ezekiel Jackson and Skip Sheffield over their ‘defence’ of him at the Rumble, Gabriel demanded that they stopped and said that he had left Nexus and didn’t need them no more. He held up the US Championship as proof and told them to stay out of his way for good. Although they looked annoyed at first, the Nexus minions ended up smiling to each other as Gabriel left the room.

SINGLES MATCH: Chris Jericho vs. Ted DiBiase
Fresh off his win at the Rumble last night, DiBiase faced off against the returning Chris Jericho, complete with his old Y2J persona, looking to prove to the world that he was still one of the big stars in the WWE despite his recent absence. In the end, Jericho proved too strong for DiBiase as he locked in the Walls of Jericho and forced the Fortunate Son DiBiase to tap out. WINNER: Chris Jericho (6:32)

The crowd then went wild as Randy Orton made his way out into the arena – another WWE superstar who looked anything but happy following last night. Orton declared that he was sick of guys sucker punching him from behind instead of facing him one on one, face to face, like men. Citing Cena’s actions last night and the assistance he had from Kurt Angle, Orton declared that he had anger building up inside him that was eventually going to have to be allowed out. Orton announced that Angle would have to wait but there was an RKO coming his way very soon; first of all, he would be dealing with Cena once and for all whether Chip Butty liked it or not. Orton quoted Cena’s prediction that he would go unbeaten to WrestleMania and then declared that he believed him – when he receives his punt to the skull, he’ll spend most of the time in the hospital wing anyway. Suddenly, Cena appeared live on the titantron in his home town of Boston, Massachusetts. He taunted Orton for his bitter comments and then told him that there would be no punt to his skull due to the no violence stipulation still in effect. Cena informed Orton that he would be on RAW next week with a proposition for him.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER: The Miz vs. Randy Orton
After Cena’s announcement and a commercial, Orton’s match against Miz was scheduled and it proved to be a great chance for Orton to begin to unleash some of the anger coursing through him. However, he was unable to hit the RKO to Miz who was in no mood to let Orton have a routine win tonight in his home state. Eventually, Orton seemed to have Miz in place and he was bashing his fists on the mat in preparation for an RKO when Cena’s music suddenly began to echo around the arena. Orton jumped up and waited for the arrival of his foe but he had to wait ... and wait ... and then Miz hit the Skull Crushing Finale before hooking the leg to secure the win! WINNER: The Miz (7:57) >>> Miz quickly got out of the way of Orton, who looked ready to explode, safe in the knowledge that he was now guaranteed a spot in next week’s Number 1 contender match on RAW. As Orton looked around the arena in anger, Cena reappeared on the titantron laughing and declared that Orton was utterly predictable. Cena reaffirmed that he would be on RAW next week and that he would see Orton when he arrived.

Backstage, General Manager HBK and Chris Jericho were sat at a table with a slight awkwardness between them after Jericho’s actions a couple of months previous. However, a handshake followed between both men and Jericho signed a new contract to wrestle on RAW before HBK guaranteed him a chance to earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber match coming in four weeks time. Rudely barging in, Edge took the attention of the General Manager and demanded to know when he would get his chance. Edge suggested that HBK now knew how good a wrestler he was after the pair of them crossed paths in the Rumble and suggested that he be simply given the title match instead and he would forget about the way he was eliminated. HBK refused and told Edge that he was proud to have played a huge part in eliminating Edge as it showed he still had it. Finally, HBK announced that Edge would have a chance to earn a place in the Fatal Four Way next week as he would later go one on one with John Morrison.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER: Daniel Bryan vs. Sheamus
With Miz already guaranteed his spot in the Fatal Four Way next week, former US Champion Bryan was looking to cause a mini upset as he went one on one with the Celtic Warrior, Sheamus. With Hornswoggle ringside as usual, Sheamus simply dominated the match and seemed moments away from victory at any given time. However, he could not land the Brogue Kick or the Celtic Cross and somehow ended up in the Le Bell Lock instead. With no choice but to tap out, Sheamus gave up a title opportunity to the much smaller Bryan and looked incredibly annoyed that he did so. WINNER: Daniel Bryan (6:49) >>> After the match, Bryan celebrated his win but was dragged off the turnbuckle by an irate Sheamus who proceeded to beat him down in anger. With Hornswoggle handing him a chair, Sheamus jammed the edge into the ribs of Bryan over and over and left him laid out in the ring needing medical attention as RAW moved on.

In the Nexus locker room, Wade Barrett and the other four members of Nexus were meeting with Barrett revealing his agreement with the words of Kurt Angle earlier – Triple H had his chance and failed. Barrett seemed to be encouraging his Nexus team to make sure Angle won tonight but then in walked Shawn Michaels with several security men. HBK informed Nexus that they would not be interfering tonight unless they wanted to feel the wrath of suspensions and the stripping of WWE Championships in the case of Barrett. HBK told Nexus to go home and leave Triple H and Angle to fight it out like men. The security began to usher a reluctant Nexus away and out of the arena to ensure no interference in the main event.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER: Edge vs. John Morrison
An even contest with both men looking desperate to join Miz and Daniel Bryan in the Fatal Four Way match for the Number 1 contendership next week. Both had their chances to put the other away and missed but then Edge seemed to have the match won when he hit the Impaler DDT on Morrison and got the 3-count from the referee before he noticed the foot of Morrison on the bottom rope. Edge was upset but the right decision had been made. Moments later, Edge missed with a Spear and hit the buckles, Morrison drop kicked him and then hit the Chuck Kick before hitting Starship Pain. Controversy followed as the referee made the 3-count again but failed to spot Edge grabbing the rope with his right hand and it would be Morrison who would win the match and head for a shot at the WWE Championship next week on RAW. WINNER: John Morrison (8:04) >>> Edge was extremely unhappy with the decision but the referee remained adamant that he had not seen it and refused to reverse the call to the delight of the WWE Universe.

Back in the GM office, Michelle McCool and Kharma were the latest visitors. HBK was telling them that any more random beatdowns like the ones handed to Maryse and Layla last night would not be tolerated and they were lucky to not be suspended and fined. McCool turned on the charm and apologised to HBK before asking him if he had heard back from somebody and if he had an answer or not. HBK answered negatively and said he had heard nothing at all. As McCool left disappointed, an irate Edge reappeared in the GM office. The Rated R Superstar slammed the bias being shown towards him from the General Manager and the officials and he implored HBK to reverse the decision – refusal from HBK who said that the referee’s decision was final and it would be Miz vs. Daniel Bryan vs. John Morrison vs. the winner of the Triple H – Angle match later tonight in next week’s Fatal Four Way.

Kurt Angle was then interviewed by Josh Mathews as he prepared to head out for the main event. Angle claimed that he wasn’t interested in any help from Nexus and that he did not fear Triple H. Angle reminded everybody about the 3 I’s – intelligence, intensity and integrity – and claimed that they would help him defeat Triple H tonight. Saying that he didn’t need the cheers of the WWE Universe, Angle claimed that his time had come and that he would head to WrestleMania as the WWE Champion ... regardless of Nexus being in or out the arena.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER: Kurt Angle vs. Triple H
Triple H attempted to make Kurt Angle pay for his betrayal last week as he controlled the early stages of the match and appeared to be heading towards victory. However, Angle came more and more into the match as his wrestling ability told and he then went on to control the match as he used a variety of suplexes. Unfortunately for him, it didn’t appear to be enough as Triple H managed to set up for a Pedigree to finish the match. However, a mystery man with red, white and blue trunks headed out and jumped onto the ring apron to cause a distraction. With the referee and Triple H distracted, another man with red, white and blue tights jumped in behind and hit a German Suplex to the unsuspecting Triple H as the referee continued to order the first man away. Having seen nothing, the referee turned to see Angle hit the Angle Slam to Triple H before making the cover and getting the 3-count to win the match. WINNER: Kurt Angle (11:25) >>> Who on earth were the two mystery men who just helped Angle to victory there? Angle appeared to know them as they raise his arm in celebration as he backed away up the ramp with the knowledge that next week he will face Miz, Daniel Bryan and Morrison for the right to challenge for the WWE Championship.

 

[GrandSword]

The GrandSword Review

Now wasn’t that more fun big fella. You might not admit it, but let me tell you, I haven’t given you a review because all I do is skim your shows because they are too long and too big for me and I end up getting bored reading all the uneeded (in my opinion only) detail. The detail you do provide is amazing and is part of what makes your thread number one around here but as we have already discussed the summarised format is one that I not only prefer to write but to read. The GrandSword format (that’s my heel gimmick poster coming out of me) is great and I can read your whole show and get into it So looking forward to your next “month” of shows.

So here we go…

1. The way Barrett won last night was a real let down for me. Booking Triple H as a god the way the WWE does nothing for me. (Booking him as a face also does nothing for me.) how are we meant to take Barrett seriously, even though he has been champ for a very long time now, it may have killed all the good work you have done. So Trips walks out and even confirms it by saying Barrett is the worse champ of all time. Wow at least you’ve got Trips down as a guy who buries people in the ring and on the mic…

2. Kurt Angle. I think when you brought back Kurt to the WWE, you didn’t think of how big of an impact bringing someone like him back into the fold would have on your thread. And that’s a good thing. His ability and star power has added an extra dimension to your show and I love it. Especially the chemistry HHH and him have always had. When Trips broke out of the shadow of Rock and Austin Angle sort of came out of nowhere and always made Trips once again look like he wasn’t the top guy. It was a great dynamic and its great to see it revisited in your show. Angle seemed to always get under Trips’ skin and I loved that.

3. I really like Gabriel as your US Champion. The guy was the Nexus’ finishing move. He was the exclamation point to their attacks. A human weapon and for him to break away and be this superhero character is an awesome way to book him. So many good things should have come out of the Nexus storyline and the great thing about BT and your BT is that those things haven’t been dropped but pushed properly (I remember when Gabriel defeated WHC Edge on SD!) However I find Dibiase extremely boring. Your push of him hopefully is filler for Gabriel. The returning Jericho defeats him though. Are you second guessing your decision?

4. Even though this is a summarised format, the “Jericho proved too strong and wins with the Walls” really does nothing for Dibiase. A para is needed in your matches not just a phrase, so as you do these shows, just add a bit more to your matches otherwise they come off as squashes.

5. Bryan wins but gets destroyed post match is something I’ve seen before. Setting up a proper feud between these two perhaps (I hope)? Instead of the losing streak Sheamus angle we got a few years back. But Bryan is moving onto bigger and better things... I wonder how that will play out?

6. With the Edge/HBK office segment I would have just wanted Edge’s reaction. I think some heat between HBK and Edge could have been generated here. Some sort of staredown or Edge throwing papers off HBK’s desk or something after HBK laid down his decision.

7. Speaking of HBK I would have even in this instance something mentioned of the appearance of Michaels by a heel of his inclusion in the RR. Was it Chip Butty’s decision or an abuse of power by HBK to insert himself in the match? Something quite intriguing could have come out of that. What if HBK won the thing? He would have to wrestle at WM and if he became champ he would have to be wrestling a full schedule again…

8. From the description of the guys who attacked Triple H to give Angle the victory, I believe that these guys were not masked. And therefore if no one knows who they are, then they aren’t guys like Haas, Benjamin or anyone else known to the WWE up until that point in WWE history. Are they Series 2 NXT guys perhaps? As from how you wrote it their faces were clearly visible… Triple H again needs to be protected by your booking. He is obviously your #1 guy on Raw at the moment (as Orton can’t find traction due to Cena’s plans).

9. For me the Road to Wrestlemania begins at RR and the shows following… so the fact that the WWE Champion didn’t get any real promo time was a disappointment. Especially how he was booked at RR. Barrett for me is this mastermind rookie who continues to keep the title, so even after his “win” at RR, he needs to be kept strong promo-wise, if that makes sense. I feel you needed him out here again bragging about defeating the all-mighty Triple H.

10. Miz, Bryan, Morrison, Angle… A very clear group of different styles in this one, but one would think a face victory is on the cards. (Morrison might get taken out by Edge during the match next week though, so Bryan in the MAIN EVENT!!!??? Hmmm.. ) Barrett can have a clean win moving into WM. Not including someone like Edge though was a big call. It shows you want to push new talent, however I think this match just needed a dash more star power.

Overall as SD won the RR you may be waiting for that for the big post RR promo, but since Cena was on the show and delivered a pretty boring one, I’m thinking missed opportunity again and Raw fell a little flat. Hopefully Angle’s men add something new moving forward.

GS

 

[JamJam]

JAM's Review​

Ha, looks like you're writing recaps for now huh? I think this can honestly benefit you as we won't miss much of the build for Elimination Chamber. And with you writing in recaps, it leads me to believe that your champions at the moment are the champions you'll have leading into Wrestlemania because if they weren't, you'll probably be writing full shows, lol. But that really isn't a problem though, but it will be interesting to see who Cena goes after. Also, nice Twitter updates, wonder where you got that from Anyway, here's some feedback for you.

No other way to start the show other than Triple H. The exchange between HHH and Angle then brought forth the announcement by HBK which I'm pretty confused with but I'll just go with it. The main event is sure to be a good one here. Also, when HBK announced that the Elimination Chamber would be for a #1 Contender's spot against the champion at Wrestlemania, is it safe to say that Cena will be choosing to face Punk or could it still be a triple threat for the WWE Title? Anyway, a little confusing opening segment with the matches made by HBK but still a solid opening to the show nonetheless.

Kind of random team with RVD and Carlito, I think that you've been bringing in people left and right and it may not be a good thing GCB. I don't think anyone actually cares what brand Carlito will be in honestly, but maybe you have something big planned for him. I hope you don't break up the Broskis because they're a pretty good tag team but if you gotta break up a team, these guys would be the best choice since they'll be solid singles competitors.

The Cena/Orton feud just keeps getting hotter and hotter. Really good exchange between the two here with no guy letting up. Having Cena appear on the TitanTron sure would add some heat for him so I understand why you did it. This is the feud that I'm real excited for and can't wait to see what you have these two guys doing at Wrestlemania. Excellent aftermath with Cena having the last laugh and prevent Orton from qualifying for a title match.

Poor Edge here, can't get a break. Again like I said before, feuding with the higher authority will probably get you somewhere so Edge's moment in glory could be very soon. The way he lost his match to Morrison, there sure will be more angst between him and HBK. The fatal four-way is looking good for next week, betting Angle wins the main event and wins the fatal four-way next week.

Wow, two masked men? Very TNA-like here, lol. But anyway, with the description of the two men wearing red, white, and blue trunks, maybe it could be Haas and Benjamin? Maybe even Swagger and someone else. One thing's for sure, you've added something else to look forward here, really good booking here GCB.

Overall, the show honestly started a little slow but once the main event happened, it picked up immensely. Not only do you have us wondering who gets a shot at EC, but you further feuds between HBK/Edge, Orton/Cena, and now with this huge development of two masked men attacking Triple H in favor of Angle winning is really great. The recaps are something to get used to from you but you're doing them good. Don't know if it would look better with images but the coloring and format is pleasing to the eyes, good job GCB.

 

[GCB]

Note: mystery men, not masked men. Their faces are clear but not known ... Yet.

 

[workhorse]

Sorry for the late review, but better late then never.

workhorse Review
2011 Royal Rumble

Firstly, congratulations on successfully completing the Rumble! What a spectacle!

* Lets dive in. First off, great first video. I actually pictured the guys talking in their voices and it was a great start to the show. I’m not going to go in depth with all the matches but rather the outcomes. DiBiase vs Bryan was a great, action packed opener and the exact type of match you’d expect to open a PPV. I’m fine with the outcome; I’m looking forward to DiBiase vs Gabriel. I think it could be an awesome feud. I hope you’ve got good plans for Bryan. I’d like to see him get elevated into the upper-mid card and hopefully a big match at ‘Mania. (Maybe against Angle – I can only dream) Onto the NXT Battle Royal. First thing I’ll say, and I know you’ve already admitted to it, but The Rock is way too big of a star for NXT. JBL I think is a perfect fit but you missed the mark with Rocky unfortunately. I loved the Rock Bottom, I can picture the crowd going off it’d be awesome! Wow, Kaval winning was a huge surprise. I thought he had no chance but well done on surprising us haha.

* What a promo from Angle, absolutely loved it! Now onto the WWE Championship Match. As soon as Triple H got attacked before the match I new he would be up against it all match. But boy, what a match it was. I was sold on Barrett winning but then I had a second thought when Triple H hit the Pedigree. In the end it was the right choice. Triple H really didn’t have anything to gain from winning and now Wade Barrett will, I hope, go on to mainevent WrestleMania. The only thing is, where to from here for Triple H? I certainly think he should stay in the Upper-Mid Card/Mainevent, but he doesn’t really need to win any more titles, but I’d like to see him perhaps but someone over at Mania or be used as a stepping stone for younger talent. I can’t wait to see how you continue to book Nexus and Wade, because at some stage they’re going to have to break up.

* Woah, Jericho is back. You’re really starting to get a stacked roster atm! The Tag Team Turmoil match was again, a very well written match. I liked the teams you used (I think Hawkins and Ryder using Ryder’s gimmick would be hugely over with the crowd). British Empire is an awesome stable and I’m glad they won. Mainly because I’m a William Regal mark but hey, who isn’t?? The only issue is that I think this match was one too many on the card. I mean, in reality, you’ve got the hour-long rumble, two huge World Title matches, another battle royal and a great ladder match. I thought that this match was probably one too many but that nonetheless I still enjoyed the match. Onto Punk vs Christian. All I can say is bravo! The twists, the turns, the near-falls, what a match!! Cole said that he didn’t want Christian as champ and he got his wish. But does this mean Christian is out? Or will he be on Smackdown this week? I wouldn’t mind seeing Cole vs Christian feud with Cole finding an opponent for him at Mania. Maybe Edge haha But seriously, kudos on a fantastic match. I can’t wait to see the fallout on Smackdown.

* Finally, the big one. The Royal Rumble Match. What a spectacle it is and what a job you’ve done. Orton is number 1 and straight away I thought that he would play a major part in the end. Jericho makes his return. I loved that JBL entered and then got his ass kicked by Rocky. It may sound like I’m praising you a lot but the order of your entrants, I thought, were terrific. The surprise entrants (HBK, Foley, Rocky) were all relevant. I loved how strong you made Miz look; in fact I wouldn’t mind seeing Jericho vs Miz. Hmmm HBK and Edge perhaps?? I guess we will wait and see. I also loved the story of Cena and Orton. Orton entering #1 and enduring so much, then Cena entering near the end and the two meeting. When it got to the final 6, I thought it would be either Cena, Angle or Taker. I guess I was right? Kane helps Cena eliminate Undertaker. I think we might be seeing Kane v Taker III? I actually wouldn’t mind that. All of a sudden Orton returned! I thought he’d win it there and then. But in the end he gets screwed and Cena wins. If you had have told me that Cena would win at the start of the match I would’ve said I’m not happy with it. But the way you pulled it off and added another level to his feud with Randy was sensational. In fact I wouldn’t be surprised if Randy somehow wins the WWE Championship and they face each other at WrestleMania. There’s no way Randy and Cena aren’t involved in a match at ‘Mania together.

* Overall, this PPV was the biggest and best one I’ve ever read. It delivered on so many levels. The matches were all written so well, there were a few surprises and twists and some great story telling. If I had to pick some negatives, I’d say the whole card was probably one match too long. I also would’ve preferred to see interference in one of the World Title matches. Other then that fantastic job! You’ve got some great feuds set up for EC and Mania so good luck with the rest of your work.

WH

 

[GCB]

Hi people. Thanks for all the comments on the Rumble. RAW's recap was quick and easy enough to do. I just can't get over the fact that I hate it like that. Better to be happy with it and write it out full, I reckon. Sorry, GrandSword! So, returning to a full show, NXT is next up. Here is the preview. I hope wwejames likes it.

*** PREVIEW ***

KAVAL HAS IMMUNITY FROM ELIMINATION!

In the NXT Battle Royal at the Royal Rumble PPV, it was Kaval who was able to outlast all the other seven NXT competitors and earn himself a double immunity from the first two eliminations. Despite being ranked 8th in the early NXT rankings, Kaval can no longer be eliminated until the third elimination which means he is guaranteed to survive past the Elimination Chamber PPV. With next week’s NXT scheduled to include the first NXT Elimination Match, all the competitors will be desperate to avoid 6th and 7th place in the rankings, positions which would ensure a place in the Elimination Match next week. Currently, Drew McIntyre, R-Truth, Dolph Ziggler and MVP sit in the 4th to 7th places in the rankings and the WWE board of directors has indicated that these four men should meet in a Fatal Four Way tonight to fight it out for those ranking positions. Can Ziggler and MVP battle their way out of the danger zone? Find out on NXT!

THE ROCK AND JBL SET FOR A CONFRONTATION!

JBL is not a happy bunny. Not only did Kaval, the so-called ‘runt’ of NXT, earn himself two immunities from elimination in the Battle Royal, JBL’s involvement in the Royal Rumble match was shortlived as he ate a Rock Bottom from the other NXT mentor, the Rock! Tonight, JBL has demanded that Rock heads to the ring for a confrontation as the heat rises between these two in the battle for NXT superiority. Will JBL be able to win the war of words with the Great One?

NEW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS!

At the Battle Royal, the British Empire team of William Regal and Mason Ryan managed to overcome the challenge of Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins, as well as four other teams, to secure the Tag Team Championships in their first PPV appearance. Tonight on NXT, the new champions, accompanied by Finlay, will face the former champions, the Major Broskis, in a Tag Team Championship rematch. Will Ryder and Hawkins be able to overcome their recent problems to regain their titles?

MICHELLE McCOOL AND KHARMA SET TO EXPLAIN THEIR ACTIONS!

After their vicious attack on the Divas Champion, Maryse, and the former champion, Layla, at the Royal Rumble, Michelle McCool and Kharma will address their critics as they appear on NXT tonight. With many people angered by their assault on the other two Divas, McCool and Kharma have requested time to speak ahead of McCool’s match against the beautiful Kelly Kelly. Will Michelle and her bodyguard have a valid reason for their attack?

***CONFIRMED ***

TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
William Regal and Mason Ryan (w/Finlay) vs. Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins

Michelle McCool (w/Kharma) vs. Kelly Kelly

NXT RANKINGS FATAL 4-WAY MATCH (#4, #5, #6, #7)
Drew McIntyre vs. R-Truth vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. MVP

***** JOIN US FOR NXT THIS TUESDAY! ***** ​

 

[#1Peep]

Peep’s Rumble Review

* This is my second time reviewing this show and last time I got up to the WWE Championship match (and skipped to the Rumble to do that!) so forgive me if I’m a little brief up to that point. Before I go into details, my biggest gripe with the show was the lack of details/flow in matches. The second read through was a lot better but the first time I went through (I don’t know how to explain it well) it was hard to get into the matches as there wasn’t any real flow, it just kind of went from move to move. As I said, reading it now, it is better than the first time but I don’t feel the matches were up to your high standard – maybe a lack of time and just wanting to get it out there after being delayed with life and such? Firstly, I really liked the opening video with each superstar giving their say on the importance of the Rumble, and how vital it can be leading to ‘Mania. Loved it – but, while I understand why you alluded to past stars, I didn’t think Austin/Foley needed to feature alongside the superstars, it seemed kind of pointless especially to close the package. Coming into the show, I felt that the two main title matches and the Rumble had been built very, very well but the under card wasn’t terribly exciting. I think this is one part of your show, especially going into a huge ‘Mania, to build up your divisions/feuds that aren’t at the top few like the two world titles, Cena/Orton, etc.

* I would have liked Gabriel to defend his belt tonight but Bryan and Ted did put on a good show. I loved how they tried to start off with the traditional lock up sequences but just thought ‘fuck it’ and went all out with ladders from there. There were a tonne of great, hard hitting spots throughout the match and the pace barely slowed, which was awesome. It was brutal and I feel that is exactly what DiBiase needed to get him over as a credible force against the new US Champion. I do think DiBiase needs a bit of a tweak, as he is very dull and his ‘Fortunate Son’ is pretty stale, especially as no one can do that gimmick better than his own father. Overall, a great, hard hitting, fast paced match which was perfect to open the show – allows DiBiase a bit of a chance and allows Bryan a chance further up the card. Eh, wasn’t really feeling the Divas segment, here as I feel Kharam is too big a personality to be someone’s body guard. I also feel the Divas and the Tag Teams have been devalued a bit by moving them both to NXT, maybe one for each RAW and Smackdown could of been key? But, then again it could just take time to get used to it as most great things just come from change we don’t initially like.

* I was dreading this battle royal, but I ended up loving it – I thought it was great! Again, I don’t feel NXT was needed as it isn’t terribly interesting – it might of been better just keeping your attentions on RAW and Smackdown. Rocky and, especially JBL, delivered great promos before the match and I felt you did a great job of furthering each storyline within the battle royal. Drew looked great, Koz/Santino was moved forward, Chavo looked unusually good and the rightful man won in the end – Kaval needed to win otherwise he would have just been kicked off the show, wasting everything with JBL. I’m not a huge fan of NXT, but you are doing well with the superstars you have. Angle cuts a classic heel promo of his, looking forward to what he gets up to at ‘Mania. This was probably my biggest gripe with your show – the WWE title match. I loved how Barrett booted Trips in the head as he was doing his awesome entrance and then the Nexus beat him down, but after that, I wasn’t a fan. The contest was pretty slow paced, even for two rather large guys, and the Nexus constant interference was rather annoying, and made Barrett, even for a heel, look bat shit weak. The opening, a couple of punches maybe, and the ending spot was enough, but how didn’t the referee disqualify Slater and then Skip later on when he dragged Trips out of the ring? It was vital that, in storyline, the Nexus ended up costing Trips the match but they made their presence know so often it became rather redundant. Honestly, Trips could have jobbed clean at this point in his career, let alone with a couple of sneaky shots but with that much crap from the Nexus, Barrett looks very weak.

* Going into this, the tag division wasn’t at its strongest. A lot of teams have been reunited very, very quickly and I wasn’t a fan. The Broskis haven’t done anything with the belts since winning it but from here on in, hopefully you can make the division meaningful again with some new champions. Not a huge fan of the Empire but they can be the centre point of the division and you can build everything around them. One big positive is the break out of Ryder, let’s see what you can do with him! Now onto my favourite part of the PPV – the WHC match! Honestly, one of my favourite matches I have read from you and hit every spot, it made both men look immense and it was a great contest all around. Cole’s presence was (kind of) subtle and it furthers his feud with Christian, one I’m looking forward to. While Christian passed out rather than tapping, Punk still adds another feather to his cap as he defeats yet another credible star in his reign. Awesome, awesome stuff GCB – basically a perfect match.

* Loved Miz’s promo just seconds before the Rumble match, it would have sent his home town fans nuts! I don’t want to go over the Rumble (as I had done previously ) but, especially for the first person to do one (not counting WWEjames’s excellence!), it was full of excitement, full of thrills and I didn’t expect Cena to win honestly. You made several of your young stars look great (Miz especially), and it was a thrilling finale. It was weird to get Angle involved but I’ll just wait and see what you do with it, you have created several little nagging points which are just waiting to be furthered. I didn’t like HBK, Rock or JBL and the constant finishers but beside that, it was excellent my friend!

Overall: Besides the WWE title match, I enjoyed this PPV immensely mate and I’m really excited for ‘Mania after this show! It’s so close and I can’t wait! Keep on trucking and well done, an awesome, awesome event!

 

[GCB]

Tuesday January 25th, 2011 | Broadbent Arena, Louisville, Kentucky

RECENTLY ON NXT:
A video package airs first that details the recent developments on NXT as the show begins to move forwards and the participants begin to get into position. Santino’s interference in the NXT main event last week between the top ranked participants, Great Khali and Vladimir Kozlov, is shown with snippets of Kozlov’s earlier attack on the Italian. Moving on, the video focuses on the NXT Battle Royal at the Royal Rumble PPV last Sunday night. The focus switches to the relationships between JBL and Kaval as well as his relationship with the other NXT mentor, The Rock. Highlights of the Battle Royal are shown before we see Rock hit the Rock Bottom on JBL and the subsequent elimination of Drew McIntyre by Kaval to earn the ‘runt’ of NXT a double immunity from elimination.

***** WILD AND YOUNG *****

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***

The crowd are looking excited over the latest episode of NXT as the yellow pyro explodes around the entrance. Striker and Mathews babble on excitedly about the latest developments with Kaval earning himself immunity from the first two eliminations despite his position of eighth in the NXT rankings at the moment. Striker reminds us about the NXT rankings and they flash up on screen ...

... before Mathews informs us that the first elimination will take place next week, the loser of a match between the two lowest ranked men in the competition that aren’t called Kaval will determine the first man eliminated from the show and the WWE.

*** EXPLODING HELMETS ***

*** KAVAL ***

Kaval heads out to a great reception, he looks in a fabulous mood after his victory at the Rumble. Once he is in the ring, he calls for a microphone and he begins to speak about how he has proved JBL wrong and now deserves respect from his mentor. He invites JBL to come out and shake his hand so that they can move on past this and work together which gets a few boos from the WWE Universe. However, Kaval waits and gets no response from JBL and moves on. He says that JBL can try whatever he wants, he is going to prove to the world that it isn’t the size of the dog in the fight that is important, it is the size of the fight in the dog. He vows that he is going to shock the WWE by winning NXT at WrestleMania 28 and then he will cash in his WWE Championship or World Championship match successfully as well. The crowd like the sound of this and they cheer for the underdog as he looks around at them with a look of determination. Kaval continues by saying that even though he is the smallest man in NXT, he believes that he can beat anybody and he intends to prove it tonight. He makes a public challenge to the NXT Rank 1, the Great Khali, to face him tonight one on one. Kaval awaits the response until ...

*** IF YA SMELL WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN’ ***

*** THE ROCK ***

A huge ovation for the Great One himself as he struts out with a huge smile on his face. He strides to the ring and then poses on the corner turnbuckles looking around the arena as the flashlights on the cameras pop. Rock takes a microphone and turns to face Kaval who is stood waiting for him to finish his entrance. Rock congratulates Kaval on winning the Battle Royal last night and tells him that he deserved to win in the end. Rock tells him that his luck ends tonight though and accepts his challenge to Khali – who is of course mentored by Rock. Rock tells Kaval that Khali is the man who has impressed him most so far on Team Rock and that he will destroy Kaval tonight. Kaval smirks at this and responds by telling Rock that he has spent his whole career so far proving people wrong. Tonight, he will prove Rock wrong as well.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

THIS FRIDAY: FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!
Royal Rumble winner John Cena returns to SMACKDOWN this Friday!
*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

*** CHAVITO ARDIENTE ***

*** CHAVO GUERRERO ***

NXT returns with Chavo Guerrero posing in the ring on the ropes after making his entrance. Matt Striker informs us that Chavo is currently ranked Number 3 in the NXT Rankings but is looking to make his move up the NXT ladder tonight.

*** PAIN ***

*** VLADIMIR KOZLOV ***

Out walks a focused and mean looking Vladimir Kozlov who is not impressed with recent events, clearly. After his failure to defeat Great Khali last week, thanks to Santino Marella, and his failure to win the Battle Royal, Kozlov walks powerfully to the ring and seems intent on taking out his anger on somebody tonight. Mathews reminds us that these two men are ranked #2 and #3 and, therefore, the winner will be ranked #2 at the end of the match with the loser ranked #3. Can Chavo Guerrero defeat the Russian and take his second place in the rankings?

MATCH 1 | SINGLES MATCH
CHAVO GUERRERO (3) vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV (2)

In the early stages, Chavo struggles to make an impression as he is thwarted by the Russian’s power counters at every turn. It appears that Kozlov is all set for victory after he hits his trapping headbutts over and over to the Mexican’s chest and then suplexes him down to the mat. Guerrero kicks out of the pin though and then he launches a comeback that leads him to the top rope ready to hit a Frog Splash. With the crowd fully behind him, Chavo climbs the ropes and then leaps off looking to hit the Frog Splash but Kozlov rolls away and then hits a Battering Ram headbutt to the chest of Chavo. Kozlov then moves up to the top rope as well and hits a DIVING HEADBUTT that connects with the shoulder of the Mexican before he makes the cover ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER
VLADIMIR KOZLOV (6:28)

Vladimir Kozlov stands up looking out at the WWE Universe with a look of defiance in his eyes as he reflects on the dominant victory that he just achieved. Striker reminds us that this victory means that the Russian retains his second place ranking in the NXT competition. As the Russian stands looking down on him, Chavo rolls out clutching his shoulder and out of the ring looking disappointed but Mathews reminds us that he is comfortable in third spot and is not in any danger of being eliminated from the competition next week. Mathews repeats the announcement that next week will see the first NXT elimination. He wonders whether or not Kozlov will be happy with being safe in second place right now but Striker suggests that he’d prefer to be in top spot instead ...

*** LA VITTORIA E MIA ***

*** SANTINO MARELLA ***

Suddenly, here comes Santino Marella!

The Italian is holding a microphone and he stays on stage as Kozlov looks towards him with an angry look on his face – Santino was the man who cost Kozlov top spot last week. Santino tells Kozlov that last week was the first part of his revenge for Santino turning his back on him when NXT began a few weeks ago. Kozlov continues to stare a hole right through Santino but he isn’t backing down from the stare and he continues on by challenging Kozlov to a match next week on NXT ... a Street Fight! Kozlov looks to Santino for a moment before smiling a sadistic smile and nodding his head ... It’s on! Next week, on NXT, Santino Marella vs. Vladimir Kozlov in a Street Fight!

The camera head backstage where JBL is sat in Team JBL’s locker room looking annoyed and subdued. He is sat back on the bench when Drew McIntyre walks in and sits beside him. McIntyre tells his mentor that he doesn’t need to worry – Kaval might be immune from elimination for now but he will not win NXT whilst he is around. JBL continues to stare straight ahead saying nothing. McIntyre continues and tells JBL that what Rock did to him at the Rumble was completely uncalled for and that he will take revenge on the so called Great One when he gets his chance. JBL turns and looks at McIntyre but doesn’t smile, he simply stands up and walks away as McIntyre looks after him with a look of concern on his face. ​

 

[GCB]

*** HOLLA HOLLA ***

*** KELLY KELLY ***

The camera returns to the ring where Kelly Kelly is in the ring and saluting the crowd ...

*** NOT ENOUGH FOR ME ***

*** MICHELLE McCOOL ***
(w/Kharma)

Out heads the pair of Michelle McCool and Kharma to a lot of hatred from the crowd after their vicious assault on Layla and Maryse at the Royal Rumble PPV. However, McCool doesn’t appear bothered by the jeers and she laughs them off as she approaches the ring. Kharma follows behind looking menacing and sizing up Kelly as she nears the ring – this appears to be a tough ask for Kelly Kelly tonight. Michelle heads around the ring and takes a microphone before she gets into the ring. She looks up at Kelly and tells her to stand back and wait for a moment, she has a few words for the WWE Universe first. She says that Kharma and her attacked Layla and Maryse on Sunday because they wanted to make a statement. McCool claims that she is the most dominant Diva here in the WWE and that she intends to prove it by defeating Maryse and winning her Divas Championship. She also suggests that the WWE hierarchy are scared of giving her a shot at the title because they know that once she is the champion, nobody else will have a chance ...

*** HOPPIPOLLA ***

*** CHIP BUTTY ***

The WWE owner heads out onto the stage and he looks down towards the ring where Michelle McCool is still stood with the microphone across the ring from Kelly. Kharma is still on the outside of the ring and she is still staring at Kelly and making her feel uncomfortable. Butty has a microphone and he speaks to McCool directly – he tells her that she makes a good case for her to be given a Divas Championship match but she cannot just be handed one after her actions last Sunday night. McCool says that that proves it – the WWE hierarchy don’t want her to be given a chance at the title. Butty smiles and says he has a challenge for McCool instead – she will face a different Diva each week, starting with Kelly tonight, if she can go unbeaten until Elimination Chamber then she will face Layla and Maryse in a Triple Threat match for the Divas Championship. If not, then Layla and Maryse will face each other instead. McCool looks pleased with this announcement and looks confident ...

MATCH 2 | SINGLES MATCH
KELLY KELLY vs. MICHELLE McCOOL (w/Kharma)

After the announcement of Chip Butty, Kelly Kelly decides that her best chance of a victory is to attack from the off and she catches McCool off guard with a shot to the shoulders and back. As Kelly goes on the attack, she hits her ‘stinkface’ to McCool in the corner and then looks to hit a series of kicks to the grounded McCool. However, Kharma’s intimidation from the outside pays off as Kelly’s eye is on her for a moment and this is all the chance Michelle needs as she kicks out Kelly’s knee and goes to work. From that point on, the result is never in doubt as McCool dominates throughout and then hits the Wings of Love to crash Kelly’s face into the mat before making the 3-count ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER
MICHELLE McCOOL (2:32)

After Kelly is pinned to the mat, Michelle stands up and arrogantly looks out around the WWE Universe with a smile on her face. She holds up one finger to signal that she has now defeated one Diva and then holds up three more fingers to signal what she has left to earn an Elimination Chamber Divas Championship match. Into the ring rolls Kharma and she stands over the fallen Kelly Kelly as McCool backs away a little. Kharma reaches down and drags Kelly up by the throat and forces her into the corner. Kelly is looking worried as she realises she is in trouble before Kharma whips her across the ring into the corner and then hits a running splash against the turnbuckle. Kelly slumps but Kharma reaches down to drag her up again and, holding her by the throat with two hands, she lifts Kelly up high before planting her down on her back with a double handed choke slam that crashes the blonde beauty down with bang. Kharma then rolls out of the ring and escorts McCool back up the ramp as NXT heads into a commercial ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

WRESTLEMANIA 27
68 days to go!
*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

NXT returns with MVP heading out to the ring ...

*** I’M COMIN’ ***

*** MVP ***

As MVP heads towards the ring ready for action, Striker describes the stipulation involved in this match. The winner will be ranked fourth whilst the man who takes the final pinfall or taps out will fall to seventh spot – therefore guaranteeing themselves a place in the NXT Elimination match next week regardless of where Kaval ends the night. The other two spots will filled by the other two participants in the order they currently stand ...

*** I AM PERFECTION ***

*** DOLPH ZIGGLER ***

Accompanied by Vickie Guerrero, Ziggler heads towards the ring showing off to the WWE Universe as he nears the ring. Mathews suggests that Dolph’s relationship with the Rock has held him back so far from being one of the top players here in NXT and that he needs to sort out these issues as soon as he can. Striker says that winning tonight would be a start as would getting rid of Vickie as per the request of his mentor ...

*** BROKEN DREAMS ***

*** DREW McINTYRE ***

Slowly stepping out from the backstage area, the Sinister Scotsman heads towards the ring with a swagger as he looks to avoid a spot in the Elimination match next week as well. McIntyre nears the ring and Striker suggests that he is a guy who has all the potential in the ring but just needs to start putting it together to survive NXT. Can he move up the rankings with a win tonight?

*** WHAT’S UP? ***

*** R-TRUTH ***

Rapping along to his song, Truth sings and dances his way to the ring with the crowd chanting along with him. Truth is another guy, says Mathews, that hasn’t ignited here on NXT yet but needs a big win to set him on a roll. Truth enters the ring and shouts out to the people of Louisville, Kentucky, before the referee signals for the match to begin ...

MATCH 3 | FATAL 4-WAY MATCH
DOLPH ZIGGLER (7) vs. DREW McINTYRE (5) vs. MVP (4) vs. R-TRUTH (6)

All four men go after each other as they look to impress their mentors and earn an important win as they look to prolong their stays on NXT. There is tension in the air early as Drew McIntyre and MVP come to blows – both members of Team JBL of course – which McIntyre isn’t impressed about. However, Ziggler is the one who impresses in the early stages and he almost gets a big win when he takes MVP down with a Sleeper Hold. As it appears that MVP is about to pass out, Ziggler is denied victory by R-Truth when he kicks him in the head to break it and ensure the match continues. The match moves onwards with all four men desperate to get the win and when Dolph Ziggler hits the ZIG ZAG on R-Truth, things look good for Ziggler. He makes the cover on Truth but MVP breaks the pinfall and tosses Ziggler out of the ring. As Truth gets to his feet, MVP hits the DRIVE BY KICK that crashes him down to the mat. MVP looks for the cover but Drew McIntyre breaks the hold and then drags Truth out of the ring from the outside and then rams him shoulder first into the steel steps. As Drew gets back into the ring, MVP catches him an unexpected kick to the head but McIntyre kicks out at 2. MVP steps back before attempting to hit the PLAY OF THE DAY – however, the move is countered by McIntyre who spins round and hits a Big Boot and knocks him down to the mat before locking him up ready ... FUTURESHOCK DDT FROM DREW McINTYRE! He makes the cover and hooks the leg ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER
DREW McINTYRE (8:24)

McIntyre jumps up in celebration as he moves up to fourth place in the rankings thanks to this victory and avoids having to face the NXT Elimination Match next week. As Drew backs away up the ramp with a huge smile on his face, Striker informs us about how that impacts the rankings. McIntyre is now in fourth place thanks to the win, MVP has fallen to seventh after his defeat and that leaves Truth in fifth whilst Ziggler is sixth. Mathews informs us that next week’s Elimination Match will definitely feature MVP but his opponent is as yet undecided. If Kaval defeats Khali later, Khali will fall to eighth and will face MVP next week. If Khali beats Kaval later, Kaval’s immunity will mean that MVP will face sixth placed Ziggler instead.​

 

[GCB]

Backstage, JBL is still sat down looking annoyed. He is now joined by Vladimir Kozlov who sits alongside him and speaks in very broken English. He tells him that he has decided to face Santino Marella next week in a Street Fight but JBL doesn’t react. He continues to stare forwards and Kozlov exits the locker room with a look of worry on his face before the cameras return to the ring ...

*** RULE BRITANNIA ***

*** BRITISH EMPIRE ***
WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (Tag Team Champions) & FINLAY

Waving their Union Jack flags, the Empire head towards the ring with the newly won Tag Team Championships around the waists of Regal and Ryan. They look delighted to be the new Tag Team Champions as they head to the ring taunting the WWE Universe as they give them grief. Mathews and Striker remind us of the way the Empire won the title on Sunday – in the Tag Team Turmoil match where they defeated Hart Dynasty in controversial circumstances and then Mark Henry and Evan Bourne as well as, allegedly, taking out Cryme Time before they had chance to come out from the backstage area.

*** RADIO ***

*** ZACK RYDER & CURT HAWKINS ***

The former Tag Team Champions head out together and they appear to be on the same page as they head towards the ring. Striker reminds us that they lost to the Hart Dynasty in the Tag Team Turmoil match but never actually met the British Empire ... Can they regain their Tag Team Championships tonight?

MATCH 4 | TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (c) (w/Finlay) vs. ZACK RYDER & CURT HAWKINS

Ryder and Hawkins have the advantage of the fans on their side as the match kicks off and they look to be intent on taking back their titles as they work brilliantly as a team to go after William Regal. As Ryder looks to finish Regal off early, Finlay tries to distract him but Ryder just shoves him down off the apron and goes back after Regal. Ryder misses with the Rough Ryder though and it allows Regal to make a tag to the Welshman, Mason Ryan. In comes Ryan and he steamrollers over Ryder at first and forces him to tag out to Hawkins. Once Hawkins comes in, Ryan whips him off the ropes and then crashes him down to the mat with a huge spinebuster. Things are beginning to look bleak for the Broskis as Ryan lifts Hawkins up high and powerbombs him down to the mat before tagging in a confident looking William Regal. Hawkins is desperately trying to scramble to his corner to tag Ryder back in but the Long Island Iced Z is still getting back there himself, Regal catches him and locks in the REGAL STRETCH! The referee drops to his knees besides Hawkins as he tries to hang on, Ryder is about to come in and break the hold when Finlay strikes – out of the referee’s vision again – with a flagpole shot to the knee of Ryder. Hawkins squirms and tries to fight but it isn’t to be ...

** TAP **
** TAP **
** TAP **

WINNER
WILLIAM REGAL & MASON RYAN (5:05)

As ‘Rule Britannia’ echoes around the arena once again, the crowd give a firm thumbs down for the dirty, cheating ways of the Empire as they are handed back their title belts by the referee. Holding them up high, the Empire then exit from the ring with their title reigns now confirmed and, with Finlay by their side, the Tag Team Champions head back to the backstage area. Ryder and Hawkins are still in the ring, Ryder clutching at his knee and Hawkins holding his shoulder. As has become the norm recently, Hawkins looks pissed off at Ryder and he lets him know it by pointing his finger at him and berating him. Ryder looks stunned but tries to verbally defend himself – Hawkins is having none of it. He theatrically tells Ryder to get out of his way and he heads towards the ropes ... But Ryder has had enough. He spins Curt back around and argues back, the crowd behind him, before Hawkins tries to throw a punch at his partner. However, it appears Ryder was expecting it, ducks and hits the ropes before hitting the ROUGH RYDER to a big ovation from the crowd. As a disappointed Ryder looks down on Hawkins on the mat, he smirks and looks around at the WWE Universe who seem to be happy with his turn here.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

THIS MONDAY: MONDAY NIGHT RAW LIVE!
Catch the Fatal 4-Way match to determine the Number 1 contender for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship!
*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

NXT returns with replays of the confrontation between Ryder and Hawkins from before the commercial break and then shows footage of Hawkins backstage swearing revenge on his partner. Striker laughs and says that it appears that those two needed the titles to keep them together before wondering what will be next on the British Empire’s list of intentions. The music hits for Great Khali though and it appears it is time for our main event match ...

*** LAND OF FIVE RIVERS ***

*** GREAT KHALI ***
(w/Runjin Singh)

The ever popular Punjab makes his way to the ring dancing and pointing as he smiles along with his brother, Runjin Singh, accompanying him as ever. As Khali approaches the ring, Mathews reminds us that Khali is the current NXT Number 1 but that by accepting this match tonight, he could tumble to eighth if he loses and end up facing MVP in the NXT Elimination Match next week.

*** EXPLODING HELMETS ***

*** KAVAL ***

For the second time this evening, Kaval makes his way towards the ring as the man who can be ranked anywhere he likes for now due to his double immunity earned in the Royal Rumble PPV on Sunday. Kaval looks to be motivated by his victory in the Battle Royal and he seems to be relishing the chance to prove the world wrong as he faces up to the giant Khali here tonight. Could Kaval make his way to Number 1 tonight?

MAIN EVENT | SINGLES MATCH
GREAT KHALI (1) (w/Runjin Singh) vs. KAVAL (8)

Kaval explodes out of the blocks and hits a series of kicks and flying moves as he looks to use his pace to outwit and disorientate his huge opponent. However, every tiny little move that Khali connects with makes a huge difference as it rattles Kaval to the core, every slap, every shove and every clothesline. Kaval continues to go at it but he cannot take Khali down and then he runs into a huge chop to the shoulder by Khali that threatens a three count but doesn’t deliver one. Finally, a series of kicks to the thigh and knees from Kaval to Khali manage to take the Punjabi Playboy down to a knee and then Kaval, quick as a flash, jumps to the top rope and hits a missile dropkick that knocks Khali down to his back for the first time. Kaval again rushes to the top rope and steadies himself before coming off it ... THE WARRIORS WAY DOUBLE FOOT STOMP! Connects! Khali clutches his chest and stomach as the two feet of Kaval drop down on him, he makes the cover ... Kick out from Khali! He throws Kaval off him as if swotting a fly! Kaval cannot believe it and misses with a roundhouse kick, this allows Khali to hit another chop to the head that reduces Kaval to a wreck on the mat. Khali drags him up and sets it up ... PUNJABI PLUNGE! It’s surely over now!

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **

WINNER
GREAT KHALI (4:43)

Sportingly, Khali helps Kaval to his feet afterwards and shakes his hand before celebrating his victory and his retention of top spot in NXT by dancing his way up the ramp again and out of the arena. Striker informs us that the ranking places of these two don’t change and that – as a result of Kaval’s immunity – the lowest two ranked wrestlers eligible for elimination are ...

Dolph Ziggler and MVP who will meet next week in the first NXT Elimination match! As a wounded Kaval makes to leave the ring though, the stock market bell sounds and his mentor begins to head out ...

*** LONGHORN ***

*** NXT MENTOR: JOHN ‘BRADSHAW’ LAYFIELD ***

Shaking his head, JBL heads out – not in his limo tonight – and walks straight down to the ring. He marches up the ring steps and steps defiantly into the ring before staring straight at Kaval who has stayed there waiting. JBL smirks at Kaval and then ignores him as the eighth placed NXT competitor makes his way out. As he leaves, JBL begins to speak at last and he sarcastically congratulates Kaval on ‘another’ fantastic NXT performance before telling him that he was lucky to win on Sunday. Kaval thinks about rounding on him and heading back down but he decides against it in the end and simply walks out. JBL addresses the crowd and challenges the other NXT mentor, The Rock, to get out here. He goes on to suggest that Rock clearly has a problem with JBL being the better NXT mentor and that his actions on Sunday – costing his man, Drew McIntyre, the Battle Royal and then eliminating him from the Rumble – showed how scared he was of Team JBL winning the NXT competition. JBL again dares Rock to come out here and then waits for a response ...

*** IF YA SMELL WHAT THE ROCK IS COOKIN’ ***

*** THE ROCK ***

Another huge reaction for Rock as his music strikes and his entrance to confront JBL begins ... Or does it? Despite his music beginning, there is no sign of the Rock! JBL stands waiting in the ring but there continues to be no sign of Rock ... The camera switches backstage and we see that there is a commotion there. On the floor, with a steel pipe nearby, is the Great One, the Rock, laying face down and clearly injured as a result of an attack from someone. A crowd of medics and officials is gathering around him and they can be heard to shout to each other about ‘What happened?’ and ‘Who did this?’ although there appears to be very little information about it. Rock’s music dies out and the cameras focus on the injured mentor on the floor, not moving, completely out cold. Back in the ring, the cameras focus on JBL who is smiling to himself for the first time tonight as NXT goes off the air on an ugly note ...

***** END OF SHOW *****​

 

[GCB]

FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN
BROADBENT ARENA, LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
FRIDAY JANUARY 28TH, 2011

*** PREVIEW ***

Just five days on from the excitement of the Royal Rumble in Cleveland, the ‘Road to WrestleMania’ takes its first steps through SMACKDOWN territory as it heads into Louisville, Kentucky. After Michael Cole’s prediction that a SMACKDOWN superstar would win the Rumble match came true, what twists and turns will there be tonight? With all the Royal Rumble fallout, the first steps towards WrestleMania and the expected set up of the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match, SMACKDOWN is a must-see show this Friday night!

*** JOHN CENA – ROYAL RUMBLE WINNER 2011 ***
The SMACKDOWN superstar to win the Royal Rumble was none other than John Cena as he fought off the challenge of Randy Orton once more to book his spot in the WrestleMania main event, a shot at the World Championship. Cena has already informed WWE officials that he intends to challenge for the World Championship – explaining why RAW General Manager Shawn Michaels began setting up his Chamber match to find a Number 1 contender for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania – and this news is bound to put World Champion CM Punk on notice. When Cena arrived on SMACKDOWN, he vowed to dominate the show and establish himself as the top dog on the show by winning the World Championship. Cena now has a guaranteed spot on the WrestleMania card, a guaranteed chance to win the title and few would bet against him doing just that after what he has already achieved in the WWE on the ‘Grandest Stage of them all.’ Tonight, Cena is set to address the latest chapter of his career although there is the nagging issue over his problems with Randy Orton of late. Will the Viper show up on SMACKDOWN to confront Cena tonight? Or will he wait for Cena’s appearance on RAW this Monday?

*** CM PUNK – STILL WORLD CHAMPION ***
In a hard fought contest at the Royal Rumble on Sunday, CM Punk retained the World Championship – but not in the way that many people thought. A valiant and determined fight from his challenger, Christian, led to Punk failing on several occasions to get the pinfall or tap out he needed. When Punk declined the help of General Manager Michael Cole, instead preferring a fair fight, he was forced to lock in the Anaconda Vice until Christian gave up. The problem was that Christian refused to give up and in the end he passed out instead. Although technically the winner of the match, it will be interesting to hear what CM Punk thinks of the way things went down at the Rumble. A man who prides himself on being the self proclaimed ‘Best in the World’ nowadays, Punk appeared shocked after the Rumble match about how things went down with some even suggesting an element of respect for his challenger. What we know is that Michael Cole will not be happy and he has already told Punk that he wants words via Twitter. Cole was vehemently opposed to Christian becoming World Champion and Punk’s refusal of his help, despite the eventual win, will not have gone down well. And what about Christian? After such a gallant effort, surely he deserves another chance at the World Championship? With the Elimination Chamber around the corner, will he get his chance?

*** ELIMINATION CHAMBER ***
In just over three weeks, the ‘Road to WrestleMania’ is scheduled to pass through Detroit and the Elimination Chamber PPV. One of the final stops before the spectacular that is WrestleMania, many twists and turns are expected and it is has been announced that the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match will be for CM Punk’s World Championship. Michael Cole is thought to be scheduling qualifiers over the next two weeks and two have already been confirmed for tonight’s show: the World’s Strongest Man and the World’s Largest Athlete will collide in the first qualifier as Mark Henry faces Big Show before a complete change of style will see the Intercontinental Champion Alberto Del Rio go up against the Breakout Star of 2010 Kofi Kingston. With Kofi’s incredible run of late and his impressive Rumble performance, can he secure a spot in the Chamber match and finally win the coveted World Championship? With other matches expected to be made on the show, how will the Elimination Chamber match be looking come the end of the night?

*** REY MYSTERIO RETURNS TO SMACKDOWN ***
Speaking of Intercontinental Champion Alberto Del Rio, trouble may well lay in his path. After injuring him several months ago, the incredible Rey Mysterio returned at the Royal Rumble and immediately went after Del Rio looking for revenge. Tonight, Mysterio returns with a match against Cody Rhodes and he will be looking to impress with Elimination Chamber chances possibly in the offing. However, Del Rio will not be willing to stand there and allow Mysterio to take revenge. Knowing the Mexican as we do, expect him to have a solution to the problem of Mysterio – and don’t expect to like it!

*** OTHER PREVIEWS ***
The new Tag Team Champions, the British Empire, will be appearing on SMACKDOWN tonight after they retained their Tag Team Championships on Tuesday night on NXT. Former Tag Team Champions, the Major Broskis, appear to be broken up after Zack Ryder finally snapped and took revenge on Curt Hawkins for his claims that he lost the titles. Tonight, Ryder is scheduled to go one on one with Hawkins as the two partners look to settle their issues. Matt and Jeff Hardy will be appearing on SMACKDOWN as they look to follow on their Rumble performances by climbing the SMACKDOWN ranks – will they be teaming up together?

*** JOIN US TONIGHT FOR FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN – LIVE! ***

*** CONFIRMED ***

ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFIERS
Big Show vs. Mark Henry
Alberto Del Rio vs. Kofi Kingston

Cody Rhodes vs. Rey Mysterio

Curt Hawkins vs. Zack Ryder​

 

[GCB]

FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN LIVE
BROADBENT ARENA, LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
FRIDAY JANUARY 28TH, 2011

*** DO YOU KNOW THE ENEMY? ***

*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***
*** PYRO ***

Todd Grisham and Mick Foley introduce SMACKDOWN as the crowd here in Louisville, Kentucky, cheer excitedly for the first SMACKDOWN on the Road to WrestleMania where tonight we are scheduled to hear from the Royal Rumble winner as well as beginning to find out which SMACKDOWN superstars will be competing in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match in just over three weeks time ...

MICHAEL COLE
FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN GENERAL MANAGER​

Boos erupt around the arena as the smirking, arrogant face of the SMACKDOWN General Manager appears on the big screen. After his experiences with his live recording last week, Cole appears to have opted for the recorded version again this week and he begins to speak ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night SMACKDOWN! This is the Number 1 show here in the WWE where the top superstars compete for the top title under the management of the top General Manager ...

More boos erupt at this announcement from Cole, the crowd here in Kentucky clearly do not agree ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Now, I don’t expect that many of you people here in Kentucky will appreciate this – after all, your most famous achievement is the creation of a popular fried chicken. Cole smirks as the boos erupt again! However, it is clear to me that you all need to listen to my words of wisdom. When I took over the reins here on SMACKDOWN, I suggested that this was the Number 1 show and I guaranteed that a SMACKDOWN superstar would be victorious at the Royal Rumble. I also guaranteed that Christian would NOT win the World Championship ... And guess what?

The heat that Cole is generating in his new role as the General Manager is growing each time he appears on WWE television ...

MICHAEL COLE:
I was dead right! Correct on every single thing that I have said so far. But tonight is not about Michael Cole. Tonight is a celebration of SMACKDOWN and a celebration of one man who took on 29 other superstars, took on the odds that were stacked against him ... and overcome every single one of them! Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome the winner of the 2011 Royal Rumble, the man who will go to WrestleMania 27 and compete in the main event for the World Heavyweight Championship ... Please welcome ... JOOOHHHHHNNNNNNN CEEEEEEEEEEEEENNNNNAAAAA!

Cole’s smarmy face disappears from the titantron as a video begins ... The video features highlights from the Royal Rumble as Cena eliminates his opponents, lays the smack down on Randy Orton and then eliminates the Viper to secure the win. The video ends with Cena pointing up at the WrestleMania 27 logo and the crowd boos and jeers as they prepare for his arrival ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***

*** JOHN CENA ***​

There is an explosion of boos from around the arena as John Cena bounds from backstage, a huge smile on his face, and he stands on stage and looks out around him as the jeers intensify. Smirking, Cena stands at the top of the ramp and he slowly raises his hand and waves it across his face: “You can’t see me!” Cena bursts into a run and he slides under the bottom rope and into the ring before bouncing across the ring off the ropes with a grin on his face.

TODD GRISHAM:
Last Sunday, Mick, Cena participated in the 30-man Royal Rumble, overcame his issues with RAW superstar Randy Orton and booked his spot in the main event of WrestleMania 27!

MICK FOLEY:
Controversially though, Todd. Many people have issues with the way Cena went about defeating Orton to earn that WrestleMania spot. Listen to the reaction Cena is getting!

Cena is stood in the centre of the ring holding a microphone and looking round at the WWE Universe still smirking. His music fades and he laughs out loud to himself as he steps around the ring once more. The fans are completely against him but Cena doesn’t care – he is in the WrestleMania 27 main event regardless!

JOHN CENA:
You do make me laugh, guys! How about a chant? Here, let me get you started off ... “Ceeee ... na ... sucks! Ceeee ... na ... sucks!” ...

Cena continues to compose the crowd as they start to join in with the “Cena sucks!” chant but it doesn’t bother him at all. He cups his ears as the crowd continue to chant and he openly mocks the fans as they chant louder. As the chant dies out, Cena lifts the microphone again ready to continue ...

JOHN CENA:
Hold up, hold up, hold up. Come on, Louisville, let me speak to you about something then. I want to take you a trip down Memory Lane ...

Another intensification of the boos but these die out – people still want to hear about what Cena has to say ...

JOHN CENA:
Two months ago, the night after Survivor Series, I cost Randy Orton his chance to win back the WWE Championship and then Teddy Long brought me here to Friday Night SMACKDOWN. Now, we all know that Teddy Long was a lousy General Manager but that was one of his few good decisions. Over I came and immediately I vowed to win the World Heavyweight Championship and prove that I was the best on SMACKDOWN!

Cena looks round arrogantly at the WWE Universe who continue to give him a lot of grief ...

JOHN CENA:
Last Sunday night, I proved once and for all that I am the man who will be officially announced as SMACKDOWN’s best, SMACKDOWN’s World Heavyweight Champion, when I won the Royal Rumble to earn my title shot at WrestleMania. I don’t care who it is: CM Punk, Christian, Kofi Kingston ... They will lose the World Championship to me at WrestleMania.

An ‘a**hole’ chant begins now as the crowd look to get under Cena’s skin – they fail once again.

JOHN CENA:
Give over, Louisville, I don’t care what you think. You see, a few months ago, I did care. I attended the ‘Make a Wish’ appointments, I shook hands with all the little kids, I signed all the autographs and I smiled for the cameras. And where did it get me? Nowhere. Now, I have more time than ever, I don’t have to put up with all your idiotic children, I don’t have to smile at morons in places like this ...

Huge boos for Cena’s latest comment ...

JOHN CENA:
... and I have a World Championship match at WrestleMania. Why on earth would I care what you think, Louisville? Why on earth would your boos and chants upset me now?

More boos and jeers for Cena but he continues to laugh mockingly at them.

JOHN CENA:
I have the chance at WrestleMania to prove I am the greatest WWE superstar on SMACKDOWN, I’ve proven it over and over on RAW already. I am going to go all the way to WrestleMania 27 unbeaten and then I will win the World Championship and all of you can boo and hiss as much as you want. However, there is one little complication. Randy Orton. For the past two months, Orton has been a constant thorn in my side.

An “RKO!” chant begins as the WWE Universe show their support for the RAW superstar. Cena – for the first time tonight – looks slightly annoyed at the chant.

JOHN CENA:
Oh, shut up!

Intense, loud boos from the crowd!

JOHN CENA:
When I left RAW, I wanted a fresh start here on SMACKDOWN. I wanted a clean break, a chance to prove that I was the best superstar in the WWE but Orton wouldn’t let things rest. We faced each other at Vengeance, I won. I wanted to leave it there but Orton wouldn’t leave it. He continued to stalk me, he continues to want revenge on me for whatever reason. At the Rumble, I once again got the better of him but still he wants a piece of John Cena.

Cena looks down and shakes his head in disappointment over the recent actions of Orton ...

JOHN CENA:
This Monday, I am going to turn up on Monday Night RAW and I have a proposition for Orton. I want to end this once and for all so that I can concentrate on heading to WrestleMania and facing the World Heavyweight Champion, concentrate on proving that I am the best in the WWE and ensure that my name ends WrestleMania 27 in lights when I become the World Heavyweight ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***

*** CM PUNK ***
World Heavyweight Champion​

Cena looks up annoyed by the interruption as the World Champion heads out laughing to himself. He kneels down on stage and announces that he it is ‘Clobbering Time’ before readjusting the WWE Championship around his waist. He is bearing a t-shirt proclaiming that he is the ‘Best in the World’ and as he steps up the ring steps, he looks to Cena and chuckles at the look of annoyance on his face. Punk has picked up a microphone as he enters the ring and he stands opposite Cena as the music fades ...

JOHN CENA:
What the hell do you ...

CM PUNK:
John, John, John, Johnny Boy. Do everybody a favour for a moment, will you? Shut up!

Cena looks stunned but he blusters for a moment before lowering his microphone ...

CM PUNK:
Thank you, Johnny, now listen to me carefully. I’ve been listening to your spiel backstage and I just had to come out and speak to you. You see, we’re not so different, you and I. Once upon a time, we cared about the fans with a passion, nowadays we couldn’t care less about their opinions ...

Slight heat for Punk’s comment about not caring about the fans ...

CM PUNK:
You’re out here claiming to be the best in the WWE, I am wearing a t-shirt proclaiming myself to be the ‘Best in the World’ – like I said, not so different. One difference though, Cena, is that I have this. Punk unstraps the World Championship from around his waist and holds it up in the air. I have this title that proves that I am the best whereas all you have is a title opportunity. Fair enough, you had to win the Rumble to get that but, at the moment, you haven’t proven anything.

Cena raises himself up a little trying to look a little more intimidating but Punk shakes his head at him.

CM PUNK:
Back down, Johnny, I’m not out here for a fight. I’m simply out here to remind you that at WrestleMania, if you think you’re going to become the World Champion, you’ll have to go through me. You might be looking past me but I assure you that you should have a little bit more respect for me before you go booking your celebration party just yet.

The WWE Universe in attendance look on and there is a little excitement as Cena and Punk’s dialogue continues; a few people are definitely on Punk’s side, his loyal fans as usual.

CM PUNK:
Before you came here to SMACKDOWN, John, you used to go by the creed of ‘Hustle, Loyalty, Respect’ but nowadays that appears to have been forgotten. Whilst I’m not interested in what the fans think of me, good or bad, I respect people in this industry enough not to think that I can just push them all aside and go unbeaten for months on end. Last Sunday, at the Rumble, I fought with Christian for the title and he earned my respect. We fought to the bitter end and he refused to tap out.

Punk fixes Cena with a stare as he continues ...

CM PUNK:
I now respect Christian but, as for you, I have no respect yet. Another man who I have no respect for is Michael Cole.

Huge boos for the mention of the SMACKDOWN General Manager ...

CM PUNK:
On Sunday, Michael Cole came out and he tried to hand me a steel chair, he offered to allow me to smash Christian with the chair and not be disqualified. He wanted me to take the cheap way out.

More boos for Cole’s actions at the Rumble ...

CM PUNK:
Do I have any respect for Michael Cole? No. Just like you don’t appear to have any respect for the other superstars here on SMACKDOWN. Let me guess, Cena, where do your loyalties lie these days? Are you loyal to Michael Cole?

Cena laughs and then he raise his microphone to respond ...

???:
Can I have your attention please?

*** MICHAEL COLE ***
SMACKDOWN GENERAL MANAGER​

Huge jeers echo around the arena as the SMACKDOWN General Manager Michael Cole steps out onto the stage and begins to make his way towards the ring with a determined look on his face.

MICHAEL COLE:
Hold it there, Punk. Cena doesn’t need to answer that one. We all know that John Cena knows full well that I am the SMACKDOWN General Manager and he knows that I deserve respect. He knows that keeping me onside is beneficial to his career. Just ask Christian and Matt Hardy what happens to people who don’t respect their boss.

Cena raises his eyebrows but Cole misses this as he is focused on Punk. Punk smirks at him and begins his reply ...

CM PUNK:
Ask Christian and Matt Hardy? Look, Cole, I’ve been wanting words with you about Christian. In three weeks time, I am going to be defending this World Championship in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match against five other men. I really think, Cole, after his performance on Sunday, that Christian deserves to be one of those five men.

MICHAEL COLE:
You do, do you? You think that Christian should be given another opportunity for the World Championship? Really?

Punk nods his head and Cole grimaces towards Cena who is listening intently ...

MICHAEL COLE:
After he gave up to your Anaconda Vice?

Punk rolls his eyes at Cole and nods his head again.

CM PUNK:
Yes, Cole, I do. You see, Christian didn’t tap out to my Anaconda Vice. He passed out. And not only do I think he deserves another shot at the title, I also contacted the WWE board of directors and requested that they give him another shot as well.

Cole looks annoyed with Punk ...

MICHAEL COLE:
That was you, was it? Punk nods his head, smiling. The board have contacted me regarding Christian and they have insisted that he is given a chance to earn himself a place in the Elimination Chamber. Completely against my wishes, obviously, but ... Cole shrugs his shoulders. So I made my decision, I would give him a shot. Tonight, there will be a number of qualifying matches for the Chamber match and Christian will be involved in one. Tonight’s main event as it happens ...

Cole looks directly into the eyes of his World Champion with a threatening stare ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Now, Punk, I thought you were different. I thought you were a champion that I could be proud of. I thought that Cena and you could dominate SMACKDOWN and the WWE for the foreseeable future. Last Sunday, you disappointed me when you spurned my offer of help. So tonight, I want to make sure that I have your loyalty ...

Punk laughs out loud at this statement, he is highly amused by the thought of being loyal to Cole.

CM PUNK:
Loyal to you?

MICHAEL COLE:
Yes, Punk loyal to me. Now if you want to do things the difficult way, Punk, you can go against me if you wish. However, now that I am General Manager, I can make life very, very difficult for you.

A look of concern passes across the face of Punk and he glances towards Cena who is smiling at the thought of Punk’s life being made difficult. Cole continues ...

MICHAEL COLE:
However, if you would like, you can do things the easy way. You see, tonight Punk, Christian will be in the qualifying match for the Elimination Chamber ... against you ... and John Cena!

Boos erupt around the arena as Punk shakes his head in anger ... On the commentary, Grisham and Foley react incredulously at the news that Christian will have to defeat the Royal Rumble winner, John Cena, and the World Champion, CM Punk, if he wishes to be involved in the Elimination Chamber. Cole has a huge smile on his face ...

CM PUNK:
You’re joking me, Cole?

MICHAEL COLE:
Do I look as if I am joking, Punk? If Christian wants to be in the Elimination Chamber match, he needs to defeat Cena and yourself in a Handicap match tonight. If he doesn’t, then I’m afraid that he will have blown his chance!

Punk looks towards Cena who is nodding his head happily ...

CM PUNK:
Christian deserves better than that, Cole, you know ...

MICHAEL COLE:
I KNOW that I am the General Manager of Friday Night SMACKDOWN, Punk. Tonight, you will team up with Cena here ... Cole pats his Royal Rumble winner on the shoulder. ... and you will defeat Christian. If you don’t beat him, I will hold you personally responsible for it, Punk.

Cena flashes a grin at Punk and then lifts his microphone up to speak ...

JOHN CENA:
I see what you mean now, Punk? Respect for each other? That’s the key, alright. I’ll see you later, shall I? Partner?!

Cena laughs and then accompanies Cole as he exits the ring leaving a flabbergasted CM Punk stood in the ring with a concerned, annoyed look on his face as he contemplates tonight’s main event ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***​

SMACKDOWN returns and Grisham and Foley recap the announcements from before the break by showing part of the confrontation between Michael Cole and CM Punk as John Cena watched on. Grisham reminds us that tonight’s main event will see Christian in a 2 vs. 1 Handicap Match with CM Punk and John Cena and that he needs to win the match to earn his place in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match. Foley also reminds us that Punk needs to ensure that Christian doesn’t win or else Michael Cole is planning to make his life as World Champion extremely difficult ...

*** SOMEBODIES GONNA’ GET THEIR ASS KICKED ***

*** MARK HENRY ***​

Smiling as normal, the ‘World’s Strongest Man’ Mark Henry heads out and lifts his hands up high in the air to acknowledge the cheers of the WWE Universe in attendance. Henry heads towards the ring slapping hands with the fans in the rampway area before stepping into the ring and saluting the fans. Grisham reminds us that last Sunday night Mark Henry and his partner, Evan Bourne, were involved in the final fall of the Tag Team Turmoil match but were outwitted by the British Empire. Henry turns to await his opponent for this Elimination Chamber qualifying match ...

*** CRANK IT UP ***

*** BIG SHOW ***​

Stepping out from backstage, the ‘World’s Largest Athlete’ heads out as well with a look on disgust on his face as he is greeted by a less than enthusiastic welcome from the crowd. After his problems with Kofi Kingston of late, Show’s Royal Rumble was shortlived after he was eliminated by Kofi late on in the contest to deny him the chance of challenging for the WWE or the World Championship. Grisham suggests that the issues between Kofi and Show are probably still not resolved; this idea is confirmed quickly by Foley.

SINGLES MATCH: Winner earns a spot in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match
BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY

The match begins with the two big men facing up to each other in the centre of the ring as if daring each other to try and knock the other one over. A shoving contest ensues before Henry comes off the ropes and attempts to take Show down with a tackle. Show staggers but remains on his feet. Henry tries twice more with the same result as Show mocks his attempts. Show then tries the same move but Henry – thinking cleverly – moves aside and then catches an unsuspecting Show with right hands as he looks to get on top in the contest. Show retaliates by grabbing Henry by the throat but not even he can Choke Slam the World’s Strongest Man and a kick to the knee from Henry gets him space and takes Show down to one leg. Henry comes off the ropes and hits a boot to the face that sends Show spinning and he crashes to the mat as the crowd roar him on. Henry goes for a cover but cannot get a 3-count and Show gets to his feet quickly and hits a number of slaps to the chest of Henry before mowing him down with a clothesline that takes Henry down for the first time. Henry is able to counter with a drop toe hold move and Show’s head cracks off the turnbuckle giving Henry chance to go for a big move as the match slows down further. Henry climbs to the corner ropes and steadies himself before trying to splash Show from the middle rope ... Too late, Show moves! As Henry staggers up, Show is able to go for a Choke Slam again but Henry again battles out and goes on the offensive. As Henry tries to lift Show for the World’s Strongest Slam though, he takes on too much. Staggering under the weight of Show, he is forced to release him and this leaves him unsuspecting ... CHOKE SLAM! HENRY CHOKE SLAMMED TO THE MAT! Big Show looks down, breathing harder now, at Henry who is laid out, the ring still shaking from the impact of his 450+ frame slamming down on it. Show stands back and winds up his big fist as Henry groggily gets up ... WMD PUNCH! HENRY SPINS ROUND KNOCKED COLD BY SHOW! Big Show places a huge foot over the chest of Henry as the referee makes the count ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **​

WINNER:
BIG SHOW (3:48) via pinfall

Big Show stands up and looks down on the fallen Henry who is not moving much at all after he was clocked with the WMD punch. Show is the first man confirmed in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber to challenge for CM Punk’s World Championship and he looks to be an incredible danger to the chances of Punk retaining. Despite the win, Show doesn’t look any happier with life and he stands over Henry looking annoyed before turning and heading out of the ring with his music playing in the background. Some fans mouth off at Show as he walks up the ramp once more but he doesn’t react – a mere look is enough to silence most of them. As he backs off the stage and out of sight, the camera switches to the interview area where Josh Mathews is waiting.

JOSH MATHEWS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest ... ZACK RYDER!

Ryder comes into shot dressed in a custom made t-shirt and ready for action tonight. He looks serious for a change as he awaits Mathews’ questioning ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Zack, on NXT last Tuesday, Curt Hawkins and yourself were defeated by the British Empire and failed to regain your Tag Team Championships. After the match, Curt blamed you – once again – for the defeat. Tonight, you go one on one with Curt as you look to put aside your differences. You thoughts?

Ryder thinks for a moment before answering ...

ZACK RYDER:
You know what, Josh, I thought that Curt was my Broski. We come from the same city, we like the same music, we worked so well as a team. We were the Long Island Major Broskis and we were the Tag Team Champions. But for the past few weeks, Curt has been questioning my performances in our matches. I’m not going to lie to you, Josh, that has hurt me. Especially seeing as Curt has been just as much to blame as I have. When he blamed me again on Tuesday night on NXT, I snapped.

A quick replay of Ryder hitting the Rough Ryder to Hawkins on NXT after their loss to the British Empire ...

ZACK RYDER:
It felt good, Josh. It felt good to stick it to Curt and show him that I wasn’t going to be blamed for anything. And now, I’m ready to move on and concentrate on my singles career. Tonight, I take revenge on Curt and then the ‘Ryder Revolution’ can finally begin. I am ready to prove to the WWE that I am the Long Island Iced Z, I am ready to feature on SMACKDOWN and I am ready to be the future of this company. You can count on that, bro. Woo Woo Woo ... You know it!

 

[GCB]

*** CURT HAWKINS ***​

Decent reaction to Ryder’s words from the crowd but Curt Hawkins is in the ring and has been watching on the titantron. He is looking very unimpressed with Ryder’s words as his theme tune plays in the background and he prepares himself for his match against his former partner.

*** RADIO ***

*** ZACK RYDER ***​

A small pop for Ryder who comes down looking focus and his attention squarely on his former friend and – it seems – his former partner. He steps into the ring and he flashes the LI symbol on the buckles before turning to face Hawkins who is speaking to him animatedly. Hawkins is still berating Ryder but he then tries to offer out his hand for a truce. Ryder stares at it for a moment and appears to be considering it to the disappointment of the crowd. However, he then makes a big decision and he refuses the handshake as he tells the referee to get the match started. As Ryder removes his shirt and tosses it out, Hawkins takes advantage and attacks Ryder from behind forcing the referee to signal for the bell to start the match ...

SINGLES MATCH
CURT HAWKINS vs. ZACK RYDER

Hawkins begins to lay into the back and shoulders of the Long Island Iced Z, Zack Ryder, and he pummels him as the WWE Universe boo and jeer his actions – Hawkins doesn’t care! After a while, Hawkins drags Ryder up and he hooks his arms around his stomach and hits a belly to back suplex that crashes Ryder down hard onto his back. Ryder kicks out of the cover at 2 though and Hawkins is forced to continue the attack as he stomps at the stomach and knees of Zack in the corner before ramming his head several times into the turnbuckles. More heat from the crowd but then Ryder strikes a counter-elbow that knocks Hawkins down and buys him a little time. Hawkins rubs his jaw annoyed on the mat and then gets up and goes for an Enzuguri kick to Ryder but this is ducked and the crowd cheer as Ryder hits the Broski Boot in the corner to stun Hawkins a little. Ryder continues with a drop kick that knocks Hawkins down and out through the ropes as he starts to take control. Following him outside, Ryder stalks Hawkins when the cameras show that another person is heading out to the ring ...

*** JACK SWAGGER ***​

Grisham and Foley on commentary are at a loss for the reason for Swagger’s appearance here tonight – he has no issues that we know of with either of these two men. Ryder slams Hawkins down on the outside and then follows it up with a leg drop before he drags Curt up once more and rolls him back into the ring, Ryder is on a roll here as he looks to prove his superiority over what seems to be his former Tag Team partner. Ryder steps back and begins to hold up the L.I. symbol with his hands as he waits for Hawkins to get up ... Ryder is preparing for the Rough Ryder ... Wait a minute! What the hell is Swagger doing?! The former World Champion has jumped into the ring and just barrelled into the back of Ryder for no reason, the referee has no choice here!

** THE REFEREE SIGNALS FOR THE BELL – HAWKINS HAS BEEN DISQUALIFIED! **​

WINNER:
ZACK RYDER (3:03) via D/Q

Despite winning the match, Ryder looks anything but the winner as Hawkins gets to his feet and joins in with Swagger to lay down a beating on the Long Island Iced Z. What on earth is going on here? Why is Jack Swagger helping Curt Hawkins? Swagger lifts Ryder up and sets him up ... PUMPHANDLE SLAM! Ryder crashes down onto the mat on his back and he writhes in pain as Hawkins continues to stick the boots to him. Hawkins looks to Swagger and mutters something before heading for the top rope. As he waits on the ropes, Swagger grabs Ryder’s right leg and lifts it off the mat ... ANKLE LOCK! SWAGGER HAS THE ANKLE LOCK ON RYDER! Zack is tapping out but Swagger refuses to let go despite the officials demanding that he does so immediately. As Ryder screams in pain from the Ankle Lock, Hawkins steps up onto the top rope ... HEAT SEEKING ELBOW! HAWKINS DROPS THE ELBOW ON RYDER’S BACK! Swagger releases Ryder from the Ankle Lock now and the medics and officials swarm into the ring. A Heat Seeking Elbow whilst he was in the Ankle Lock? A brutal and vicious attack from Hawkins and Swagger who now exit the ring with beaming smiles together. Grisham and Foley are in complete shock on the commentary as the camera follows the pair of them up the ramp where they are taking some heat from the crowd. However, they appear not interested as they exit the arena whilst the camera returns to a seriously hurt Zack Ryder in the ring ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***​

SMACKDOWN returns with footage of Zack Ryder being helped out of the arena before a replay of the devastating moment when Hawkins hit the Heat Seeking Elbow from the top rope on Ryder’s back whilst he was trapped in Swagger’s Ankle Lock. Foley criticises the actions of Hawkins and wonders why he would do that to his Tag Team partner? Grisham suggests that Hawkins might have found himself a new partner already ...

*** REALEZA ***

*** ALBERTO DEL RIO ***
(w/Ricardo Rodriguez) | Intercontinental Champion​

Ricardo Rodriguez is shown in the ring as he waits for the arrival of the Intercontinental Champion, his employer, Alberto Del Rio, to make his way out into the arena in his Rolls Royce car. Del Rio steps out of the car and onto the stage as the golden rain showers down behind him and Rodriguez introduces him to the crowd who aren’t fans of the wealthy Mexican. He dismisses their jeers as he heads for the ring and enters between the ropes held apart by Rodriguez. Foley and Grisham discuss the Royal Rumble and remind us that Del Rio’s fellow Mexican, Rey Mysterio, made his return from injury – inflicted by Del Rio – to eliminate the Intercontinental Champion.

*** S.O.S. ***

*** KOFI KINGSTON ***​

As Kingston comes bounding out onto the stage and the fireworks explode around him, Foley suggests that the Royal Rumble was yet another moment when Kofi got so close to glory but couldn’t quite get there. Grisham reminds us that Kingston reached the final five of the Rumble but was eliminated when he was close to achieving his goal. Foley airs the suggestion that maybe Kofi is not capable of that one last huge victory that would propel him into superstardom as Kofi leaps up on the ropes and slaps his hands together in salute to the WWE Universe. Grisham informs us that both men have a huge opportunity tonight to prove that they are heading into the big time as they do battle for a place in the Elimination Chamber match for the World Championship right now!

SINGLES MATCH: Winner earns a spot in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match
ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. KOFI KINGSTON

As you would expect from these two, the different styles of the pair of them go together well and produce a decent paced match that entertains the crowd. After a fast start from Kofi Kingston, it is Alberto Del Rio who takes over the match after he counters with a clothesline – a distraction from his personal ring announcer helps slightly though. Despite his control of the match, Kofi continues to show signs of danger as he threatens to get back on top and the match swings back and forth for a while as it winds towards a conclusion. When Kofi manages to avoid a corner clothesline from the Mexican in the corner, he rushes across the ring and off the ropes before hitting a high, diving crossbody off the ropes. A 2-count follows as Kofi looks to secure his Elimination Chamber spot but he then decides to head up the ropes for the first time tonight. Another distraction from Rodriguez follows and this causes a delay to Kofi on the top rope and allows Del Rio to knock one of his feet off the ropes and causes him to land awkwardly over the top buckle as the men in the crowd wince for him. Dragging Kofi down off the ropes, Del Rio smirks and he locks Kofi’s arm up ready to roll through and lock in the Cross Arm Breaker when all of a sudden, somebody else makes an appearance here tonight ...

*** BOOYAKA! BOOYAKA! 6-1-9! ***

*** REY MYSTERIO ***​

The crowd go wild for the sight of the returning Mysterio who clearly retains a fierce issue with Del Rio after the Aristocrat caused his injury months ago. Mysterio walks down the ramp eying Del Rio who is now stood at the ropes, pointing to Rey and warning him to stay away. This is giving Kofi time to rest of course and when Del Rio goes to grab Kofi and try again, the Ghanaian shakes him off and pops him off into the ropes ... Drop kick from Kofi! Del Rio wobbles to his feet and Kofi locks him up ... SOS! KOFI HITS THE SOS ON DEL RIO! He makes the cover ... No! Del Rio kicks out at 2! Kofi is stunned but goes on the offensive and climbs the ropes once more. He steps onto the top turnbuckle and leaps off ... Diving Crossbody! But Del Rio rolls it though, hooks the leg and grabs the bottom rope ... The referee is making the count as Del Rio uses the rope for leverage here ... 1 ... 2 ... Mysterio rescues Kofi and knocks Del Rio’s hand off the ropes and allowing Kofi to kick out. Del Rio is on his knees staring at Mysterio in annoyance as the referee, who now realises what Alberto was doing, reprimands him. Del Rio slowly gets up, the hatred between him and Rey is obvious ... TROUBLE IN PARADISE! DEL RIO TURNS INTO THE TROUBLE IN PARADISE! Kofi makes the cover ... Has he sealed his place in the Chamber?

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **​

WINNER:
KOFI KINGSTON (8:47) via pinfall

Kofi Kingston jumps up in celebration as he books his place in the Elimination Chamber match and earns himself an opportunity to compete for the World Championship yet again. As the referee holds up the hand in victory, Del Rio protests and points angrily to the smiling Rey Mysterio who is still stood outside the ring. Laughing at his enemy, Mysterio backs away pointing up in the sky as Del Rio watches on. Kofi exits the ring and he gives Mysterio a hug before Rey holds his hand up high to taunt Del Rio who is still in the ring. As SMACKDOWN exits into another commercial, Foley speculates that this is only the start of Mysterio’s revenge against Alberto for the injury he caused five months ago ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

*** LAST TUESDAY ON NXT ***

A highlights video airs that recaps the action on NXT last Tuesday night. Striker’s announcement about the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh ranked participants facing each other is played along with the news that next week will see the first NXT elimination match. McIntyre hitting the Future Shock DDT to MVP is shown and the news that it will be MVP against Dolph Ziggler is shown on a match card. Following that, clips of a miserable looking JBL are shown along with the reasons for this: Kaval winning the Royal Rumble, Rock hitting the Rock Bottom to him during the Rumble match. Snippets of Kaval berating JBL and all the other non-believers are played before JBL calling out Rock to the ring. The scene turns more sinister and the action slows down into black and white as we see Rock laid face down on the concrete after being attacked with a steel pipe with medics positioned around him looking concerned. As the video ends, JBL’s face is shown with him smiling for the first time since before the Rumble PPV ...

NEXT WEEK: Dolph Ziggler vs. MVP (Loser will be eliminated from NXT and the WWE)​

The cameras return to the announce table where Foley and Grisham are sat looking sombre after watching the NXT recap video ...

MICK FOLEY:
I’ve heard from the WWE medics tonight on SMACKDOWN who have told me that Rock is suffering from a severe concussion after the attack on Tuesday. Doctors have ordered him to take an indefinite amount of time off until he is fully recovered so he will miss NXT this Tuesday night.

TODD GRISHAM:
And with one of his team, Dolph Ziggler, going up against MVP in the first NXT Elimination contest, Rock could return to NXT and find that members of his team have been eliminated.

The cameras switch backstage where we see the Hardy Boys stood together sharing a joke and laughing together. Cue huge cheers from the SMACKDOWN audience as they see the popular team back together again. Into the picture walks the SMACKDOWN General Manager, Michael Cole. Cue huge jeers from the SMACKDOWN audience as well as a look of disgust from the Hardys as they look at Cole.

MATT HARDY:
Michael Cole, what can we do for you then?

Cole looks equally unimpressed to see the Hardys and he smirks before speaking to them ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Look, this is definitely not my decision but I’ve been speaking to the WWE board of directors ...

JEFF HARDY:
Yeah, we heard, man. Just to let you know, the match you set up for Christian, completely wrong.

Cole looks at Jeff and looks a little annoyed at this comment.

MICHAEL COLE:
When I want advice on how to run SMACKDOWN, Jeff, I’ll let you know. For now, we’ll just assume I’m doing a great job on SMACKDOWN, shall we?

Matt and Jeff cast amused looks towards each other, they clearly don’t agree. Cole shakes his head in annoyance but continues on.

MICHAEL COLE:
Like I said, I was speaking to the board earlier and they demanded that I give Christian a chance to earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber. They also insisted that I give the pair of you a chance as well.

The Hardys suddenly perk up their interest in Cole as they sense a chance to earn their spot in the Elimination Chamber World Championship match in three weeks. Cole smirks at their interested faces ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Not running your mouths now, I see? Anyway, I’ve been racking my brains and I’ve decided that tonight, you will team up to face the new Tag Team Champions, the British Empire. If you can beat them, and I severely doubt you will ...

Cole laughs as the Hardys now look annoyed again ...

MICHAEL COLE:
If you beat them, you will earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber match.

A smile spreads across the faces of the Hardys as Cole turns and walks out of the locker room. A golden chance for the Hardy Boys to earn their spot in the Elimination Chamber as they go up against the Tag Team Champions later tonight. The cameras switch back to the ring where music of the ‘Dashing’ one begins to play ...

 

[GCB]

*** SMOKE AND MIRRORS ***

*** CODY RHODES ***​

Cody Rhodes steps out and checks his appearance in the mirror on the titantron before heading towards the ring laughing at the WWE Universe as they attempt to mock him. Rhodes is clearly feeling superior to the people of Louisville and he points at some of the uglier members of the WWE Universe as he mocks them before he jogs up the ring steps and removes his jacket. He continues to look around the arena at the other people in attendance whilst he awaits his opponent ...

*** BOOYAKA! BOOYAKA! 6-1-9! ***

*** REY MYSTERIO ***​

For the second time this evening, Mysterio comes running out and he greets the youngsters in the rampside seats as he presses his masked forehead against theirs and speaks some words of encouragement. He removes his custom-made shirt and drapes it over one of the children before sliding under the bottom rope and saluting the fans by holding up a finger and pointing to the ceiling. The crowd are clearly delighted to see Mysterio back on SMACKDOWN and he is clearly delighted to be back on SMACKDOWN too. As he bounces on the balls of his feet, he faces Cody Rhodes and the referee signals for the bell to begin the contest ...

SINGLES MATCH
CODY RHODES vs. REY MYSTERIO

Mysterio and Rhodes size each other up early on before Rhodes begins to mock Rey’s height and underestimates him like so many have done in the past. To be fair to Cody, he is able to control the match as he hits a number of knee drops and dropkick moves that keep Mysterio grounded in the early going. At one point though, Rey counters with a Hurricanrana, the crowd come alive as Rhodes heads into the ropes and ends up straggled over the middle rope. Mysterio goes for the 619 but Rhodes sees it coming and rolls out of the way in time ... Mysterio was starting his swing round and he stands on the edge of the ring apron, he leaps up onto the top rope and goes for a second Hurricanrana as Rhodes spins round. However, Rhodes catches Mysterio out and hits the Alabama Slam before dropping down and balling up Rey for the cover ... 2 count! Rhodes is livid with the referee, he thought he had the match won there. Cody climbs to the top rope and goes for a drop kick that connects and Rey is sent down to the mat once more ... another cover from Cody Rhodes ... 2 count again! Rhodes cannot believe he hasn’t put Rey away and he sets up for the Cross Rhodes instead, Mysterio is having none of it though and he uses his flexibility to kick Rhodes in the head a couple of times to make the break. Springboarding off the middle rope, Rey hits a crossbody and then jumps up, springboards off the ropes on the other side of the ring and hits a Bulldog to Cody as he gets up. Cover from Rey gets a 2-count as he looks to have the match under control now. Rhodes rolls out of the ring now and takes a moment but Rey wants to get this match won and he goes flying through the ropes and connects with a huge Suicide Dive that crashes Rhodes back into the barricades. The referee orders both men back into the ring and starts a countout, Rhodes only just makes it back in time (8) and this allows Mysterio time to prepare. Rhodes sees him coming off the top rope again though and he catches Rey and looks for a second Alabama Slam ... however, this time, Rey turns it into a Headscissors takedown that leaves Rhodes over the ropes again. The crowd are on their feet, here we go again! MYSTERIO HITS THE 619 TO CODY RHODES! AND FOLLOWS WITH THE DIVING HEADBUTT! Mysterio makes the cover on Rhodes ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **​

WINNER:
REY MYSTERIO (5:48) via pinfall

A huge roar from the SMACKDOWN crowd as Mysterio makes a winning return to SMACKDOWN and to singles competition here tonight. An embarrassed Cody Rhodes slides out of the ring and away as Rey jumps onto the middle rope in the corner of the ring to salute the crowd after his win. An increase in noise should give the Mexican a warning but he doesn’t notice until it is too late. He jumps down from the middle rope, still facing out into the crowd, and then ... BAM! Enzuguri kick!

*** ALBERTO DEL RIO ***​

Alberto Del Rio has returned to the ring and he does not look happy as he drops onto his knees and begins to pummel Mysterio’s masked face hard over and over as his victim tries desperately to cover up. Ricardo Rodriguez is also in the ring and he is shouting encouragement at Del Rio who seems to have snapped. Getting up and shaking his hand which he has hurt in punching Rey over and over, Del Rio steps back a little and then rushes back and connects with a low drop kick to the side of Mysterio’s head that sends him rolling under the rope to the outside with a thud. Del Rio is intent on hurting Rey and he follows him out and drags him to his feet before holding an arm behind his back and then ramming him shoulder first into the ring steps, Mysterio hits them with a loud crash and is clutching his shoulder and elbow. Grisham worriedly informs us that that is the arm that Del Rio injured months ago on SMACKDOWN to take Rey out and it appears he is intent on doing it one more time. As Rey tries to climb back up, using the steps for support, Del Rio stretches his injured arm over the steps and tells Rodriguez to hold it over them. With his arm exposed, Del Rio steps up and pauses for a moment before slamming his boot down hard onto the arm several times. Rey rolls around in pain on the outside of the ring and is clearly in agony here, Foley urges Del Rio to stop but nothing could be further from the wealthy Mexican’s mind. He rolls Rey back into the ring and follows before standing over him with an evil smirk on his face. He points to himself and shouts to the crowd in Spanish before grabbing Mysterio’s arm and pausing ... CROSS ARM BREAKER! DEL RIO HAS THE CROSS ARM BREAKER LOCKED IN ON MYSTERIO AGAIN! Mysterio is tapping immediately but Del Rio refuses to release him, he is set to cause another injury right here as Del Rio completely ignores the instructions of the medics and referees ...

*** EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY***​

The Tag Team of Mark Henry and Evan Bourne rush to the ring looking concerned and angry, they have both had some issues with Del Rio of late, but Rodriguez warns him and he releases Rey as they enter the ring. Del Rio rolls away as Bourne and Henry rush over to Mysterio to check on him and this gives Del Rio chance to retreat up the ramp. Rodriguez catches up and hands him his Intercontinental Championship belt and Del Rio backs up the ramp and out leaving Mysterio a sorry state in the ring as Grisham wonders how long this injury will take from Rey’s career in the WWE ...

SMACKDOWN heads into another commercial but this time advertises next week’s SMACKDOWN main event that Michael Cole has already determined ...

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***​

SMACKDOWN returns with a buzz of excitement in the air at the news that Undertaker and Kane will face each other next week in an Elimination Chamber Qualifier – and it will be a Buried Alive match. Foley and Grisham talk about the hell these two have been putting each other through for the past six months since Kane’s attack on his brother on Memorial Day last year and about how this match could finally put an end the rivalry between them.

*** RULE BRITANNIA ***

*** MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL - BRITISH EMPIRE ***
(w/Finlay) | Tag Team Champions​

Sauntering out with Finlay waving the red, white and blue colours of the Union Jack, Mason Ryan and William Regal, the Tag Team Champions, head towards the ring with smiles on their faces after their recent title victories at the Rumble (Tag Team Turmoil) and on NXT (Ryder and Hawkins) as they won and retained their first Tag Team Championship together. They mock the audience as they come towards the ring, Ryan with the Tag Title over his red, white and blue tights, Regal in a splendid, elaborate cloak that hides his black trunks and title belt. As the trio step into the ring, Finlay waves the flag to heat from the American crowd as Regal looks around with a look of disdain on his face, clearly unimpressed with what he can see. He signals for and is handed a microphone which he stands central in the ring with and holds up his hand for the music to be faded out. As the music dies, the heat for the Empire gathers noise again and Regal is forced to wait ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
Now, now, now, Louisville, that is no way to treat guests to your state!

Another eruption of boos and jeers as Mason Ryan threateningly tries to intimidate the crowd into silence. They appear to be refusing though and Regal shakes his head in annoyance.

WILLIAM REGAL:
Tonight, you are being handed a once in a lifetime opportunity, a real privilege, an undoubted highlight in your miserable existences. Tonight, Louisville, not only do you get to see three of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s representatives ...

Thumbs down signals from the crowd as a chant of ‘Regal sucks!’ begins in the arena. Regal again pauses and waits, a look of impatience on his face, before continuing ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
But you also get to see the new Tag Team Champions!

Foley comments that the way they won, and retained, those titles was controversial to say the least and that the Louisville crowd’s reaction shows that they are not impressed by the sight of the champions in the ring.

WILLIAM REGAL:
Now, I know that you still don’t understand that anything that you idiotic Americans do, we Brits ...

Regal is really riling up the crowd here tonight and a ‘USA! USA!’ chant now begins in a show of national pride ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
... we Brits do it ten times better as well as with an air of manners and grace. We proved that last Sunday when we beat all of your heroes and won the Tag Team Championships within weeks of introducing ourselves to you. That, Louisville, is impressive.

Ryan applauds Regal’s comments whilst Finlay waves the flag with increased fervour ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
If you want an example of how the British are superior to the Americans in everything we do, take a look at our opponents tonight. Matt and Jeff Hardy ...

Cheers for the mention of the Hardy Boys ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
Tonight, they team together for the first time in years to try and beat us and earn themselves a place in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber. Look at their history. One man who has failed with every single opportunity that he has ever had in life; another man who finally succeeded but then blew it through his own stupidity.

More heat for Regal’s comments and jibes at the Hardys ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
I look at Matt and Jeff Hardy and I ask myself why this abomination of a team is still allowed here in the WWE. Why are they been given chance to earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber when the British Empire is more deserving of their chances after just three WWE matches together?

A ‘Hardy!’ chant goes up, the crowd want to see Matt and Jeff come out and shut Regal’s mouth ...

WILLIAM REGAL:
Tonight, your heroes, the Hardys, will waste another chance at glory. Tonight, the British Empire makes a stand and proves to you all that not only is Britain superior to America, not only is the British Empire more deserving of an Elimination Chamber place than the Hardys but that it is time that all of you morons in the WWE Universe ...

Morons? Way to impress the crowd, Regal!

WILLIAM REGAL:
... all of you morons will take notice and realise that we are here ... to dominate the WWE!

Boos and jeers again as Regal tosses the microphone away and turns back to Mason Ryan and Finlay who look impressed by what he said and clearly agree with him ...

*** LOADED ***

*** HARDY BOYS ***​

An explosion of noise in the arena as the Hardys, reunited for a match for the first time in three years, come racing out onto the stage and greet the fans together in a classic SMACKDOWN moment. The electric in the air is palpable and Matt and Jeff hug on stage before racing down to the ring and sliding under the bottom rope. The Empire take leave of the ring for a moment to allow the Hardys chance to jump up on the ropes and salute the crowd ‘Hardy-style’ as Foley excitedly claims them to be the WWE’s greatest ever tag team and says he loves seeing them back together and ready to rock the world once more. Grisham runs down the impressive achievements of the Hardys – seven time Tag Team Champions, innovators of the infamous TLC matches as well as numerous singles titles including Jeff capturing the World Championship back in late 2008 – before they turn and face the Empire and beckon them to get in the ring to begin the match tonight. Matt and Jeff look determined to win the match, earn their spots in the Elimination Chamber match and – as Foley points out – propel themselves into major contention for a Tag Team Championship match as well. The Empire climb back into the ring and Regal and Ryan hand over their title belts to the referee who also orders Finlay out of the ring and to stay out of the contest.

TAG TEAM MATCH: If Hardy Boys win, they earn a spot in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match
MASON RYAN & WILLIAM REGAL vs. HARDY BOYS

The Tag Team Champions waste time early as they try to rile up the Hardys who are desperate to get back into their Tag Team routine right now – Regal continues to hold up Matt who is starting out for them. When Regal finally starts the match properly, Hardy takes the early advantage before tagging in Jeff who continues. The turning point comes when Finlay – as ever – causes a distraction to Jeff and this allows Regal to tag in the powerhouse, Mason Ryan. In comes the Welsh enforcer of the team and he mows down Jeff with a shoulder block before ramming into Matt and knocking him flying off the apron. Ryan goes after Jeff now and slams him hard into the mat several times before a mean looking leg drop off that gets a 2-count. A tag to Regal follows and now Regal can apply his technical assault as he hits several suplexes and submission style holds that weaken Jeff. Matt is back on the apron and is desperate for the tag but Jeff cannot get to him. When he does manage to hit a mule kick to Regal and starts to crawl over towards his brother, Mason Ryan tags in and again knocks Matt off the apron just in time. Jeff slumps and this allows Mason to stomp on his lower back over and over before dragging him to the centre of the ring. Regal takes the tag and he goes straight for Jeff who is in trouble here ... REGAL STRETCH! JEFF HARDY COULD BE FORCED TO TAP TO REGAL HERE! Jeff is scrambling for the ropes but he can’t reach, will he have to tap out here? In comes a fired up Matt, he is fed up of the tactics of the Empire and he runs over and kicks Regal in the head before surprising Ryan with a shot to the face. The referee grabs Matt and ushers him away as Regal tags Mason Ryan back in, the Welshman comes in and looks to set up for his powerbomb finisher ... Jeff counters into a DDT and both men are down on the mat. Jeff crawls over slowly, he is inching closer and closer ... Tag to Matt! Ryan also tags in Regal, here we go, the fight is on now! Matt and Regal trade blows, this is not the way Regal likes to wrestle! Matt hits a kick to the knee of Regal and then hooks his head and suplexes him over and crashes him down on the mat. As Regal staggers up, Matt tags in Jeff who backs away to the corner ... Matt drops to his knees in front of Regal, Jeff runs over and uses Matt as a springboard, clothesline to Regal in the corner. In comes Ryan again, this is breaking down now, Jeff ducks under his clothesline though and Matt surprises him with a huge clothesline that staggers Ryan through the ropes and to the outside with a thud. Matt exits the ring as per the orders of the ref as Jeff lifts himself up onto the middle rope ... Missile dropkick from the ropes by Jeff! 2-count only though! Jeff tags in Matt again, he comes in and whips Regal to the ropes before catching him with a reverse elbow and then clotheslining him down to the mat. As Regal slowly gets up, Matt waits and waits ... Side Effect! Regal crashes down hard, he is in trouble here ... 1 ... 2 ... No! Ryan drags Hardy out with the legs to the outside! Matt and Mason Ryan trade blows and the Welsh Dragon is getting the better of it until Jeff comes around the corner of the ring, balancing on the top of the barricades and hits a diving clothesline to the big man that knocks him down once more. Matt clobbers Finlay next before he rolls back into the ring and he waits ... Could it be time for the Twist of Fate? Matt tries but Regal counters by shoving him away, Regal looks for a tag but there is no partner there ... he turns around and Matt hits him with a dropkick that staggers him into the corner ... TWIST OF FATE! MATT HITS THE TWIST OF FATE! Matt looks down on Regal and then runs over and tags in Jeff instead of making the cover ... Jeff climbs the ropes ... SWANTON BOMB! JEFF HARDY HITS THE SWANTON BOMB ON REGAL! Jeff makes the cover as Matt takes down Mason Ryan again on the outside to keep him away ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **​

WINNER:
HARDY BOYS (6:48) via pinfall

A huge reaction greets the 3-count and the crowd go wild for the result – Matt and Jeff Hardy have qualified for the Elimination Chamber match! Matt returns to the ring and the brothers hug in the middle of the ring, one of these two men could win the World Championship in just three weeks time, their smiles are spread wide across their face. The British Empire have skulked away embarrassed by their first defeat as a team in the WWE since their formation and the Hardys continue to celebrate and salute the crowd who are cheering for them. However ...

???:
Can I have your attention please?

*** MICHAEL COLE ***
SMACKDOWN GENERAL MANAGER​

Boos and jeers erupt around the arena once more as the SMACKDOWN General Manager comes out for a second time carrying a microphone and smiling broadly ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Matt, Jeff ... Congratulations. I promised that if you won tonight, you would get a shot at the World Championship in the Elimination Chamber. I am a man of my word and that is exactly what you will get ...

Matt and Jeff nod their heads but there is a look of suspicion in their eyes ...

MICHAEL COLE:
So, next week, live on SMACKDOWN, as well as the Buried Alive match between Kane and the Undertaker ...

Cheers for next week’s main event match from the WWE Universe.

MICHAEL COLE:
... there will also be one final qualifying match.

Furrowed brows around the arena, how many spaces are there in the Elimination Chamber? CM Punk is defending the title, Christian could qualify later, Kofi Kingston and Big Show have already qualified tonight, one of Undertaker and Kane could also qualify as well as the Hardys ... How can there be any more qualifiers?

MICHAEL COLE:
I promised you a shot at the Elimination Chamber and the World Championship, gentlemen. I promised you ... A shot.

Boos begin to echo around the arena as the truth dawns on the WWE Universe and the Hardys. Only one of them is getting a spot in the Chamber ...

MICHAEL COLE:
Just one of you will be in the Chamber and I’ve made a decision – next week, on SMACKDOWN Live, it will be brother vs. brother in the main event ... and it will be brother vs. brother in the other qualifier too. Next week, Jeff Hardy goes one on one ... with Matt Hardy!

The crowd are not impressed and Matt and Jeff are stood dumbfounded in the ring. Why has Cole made that decision? Cole turns and heads back off the stage and out of sight as the crowd digest what they have just heard. Todd Grisham reminds us of the Elimination Chamber line up as it stands at the moment: CM Punk defends against Big Show, Kofi Kingston, one of the Hardys, one of Undertaker and Kane ... and, if he can upset the odds and defeat Cena and Punk later tonight in a Handicap match, Christian. As the camera switches backstage, the Hardys continue to look amazed at the last announcement before we see a jovial Kofi Kingston walking backstage.

*** KOFI KINGSTON ***​

He slaps hands with Trent Barretta who is wandering around and congratulates him, he gives a hug to Eve Torres and he also greets some of the other backstage members before opening the door to enter the locker room. As the door opens though, Kofi walks right into a huge ham of a fist ... BOOM! KNOCKOUT PUNCH! Kofi is knocked cold immediately and WWE officials swarm around him as the man who delivered the punch appears ...

*** BIG SHOW ***​

Show stands over the fallen Kofi and he smiles widely as he looks down on him. The officials plead with him to leave Kofi alone and then Show drops to one knee as he looks down on Kofi ...

BIG SHOW:
Congratulations on your win tonight, Kofi. I’ll see you in the Elimination Chamber!

The crowd boo as Show lifts himself back up and steps away from Kingston as if nothing has happened, smiling as he walks away and the medics have to tend to the fallen Ghanaian as well now.

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***​

 

[GCB]

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***​

SMACKDOWN returns and Grisham and Foley suggest that there must be something in the water tonight with the number of sneak attacks – Hawkins and Swagger on Ryder; Del Rio on Mysterio and now, with replays shown, Big Show on Kofi Kingston. Foley wonders whether or not there is more to come tonight as Cena and Punk team up to face Christian in a Handicap match where a Christian win would see him qualify for the Elimination Chamber match for the World Championship.

*** SLOW CHEMICAL ***

*** KANE ***​

Eerie music, a sudden fading of the light and then a stream of red smoke signals the arrival of the Big Red Monster, Kane, as he enters the arena ready for his match tonight. He slowly walks towards the ring as Foley and Grisham discuss next week’s Elimination Chamber qualifier between the Devil’s Favourite Demon and his brother, the Undertaker. Foley is excited that the pair of them are ready to face each other in a Buried Alive match, a chance to end their feud once and for all after it has dominated SMACKDOWN one way or another since the previous May. Kane enters the ring and drops his hands to set off his huge red explosions in the four corners of the ring and he looks around with a menacing look on his face as he awaits his opponent tonight ...

*** CLAVICLE ***

*** EVAN BOURNE ***​

Poor, poor Evan Bourne! With Kane in no mood for showing any mercy, he tentatively makes his way towards the ring with a look of concern on his face. Kane is pacing the ring waiting for him and he seems to have a point to prove as he prepares for his match with Undertaker next Friday night – and Bourne appears to be in the way. As Evan steps into the ring, he straightens up and looks towards Kane who laughs at him. Bourne shows a lot of guts as he pulls off his shirt and tosses it to the crowd before saluting them but he seems to be a sitting duck here ...

SINGLES MATCH
EVAN BOURNE vs. KANE

A complete massacre here as Evan Bourne never ever gets started aside from one or two little flurries of kick combinations that have little to no effect on the Big Red Monster. Kane’s power is too much and he looks determined and fired up tonight after the announcement earlier of Kane’s match with the Undertaker next week. A side slam from Kane squashes Bourne down on the mat before he stands back with a maniacal grin on his face ... waiting ... CHOKE SLAM! KANE WITH THE CHOKE SLAM TO BOURNE. This one is over! But wait? What is Kane doing? Kane drags Bourne up and decides that he wants to send a message! With Bourne propped up against him, Kane looks out to the crowd and performs Taker’s cut throat taunt before lifting Bourne up ... TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER! KANE WITH THE TOMBSTONE! Kane makes the cover, it’s irrelevant, it’s over ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **​

WINNER:
KANE (2:17) via pinfall

As Bourne rolls out of the ring and is helped away by officials, Kane stands in the centre of the ring and he laughs once more – he has sent a clear message to his brother here tonight. There is no doubt that Kane is ready and desperate to extinguish Undertaker from his very existence, thirsty to end the era of the Deadman once and for all. Kane is talking to himself and he then sets off his pyro once more as the crowd boo him. Foley and Grisham again remind us: NEXT WEEK, BURIED ALIVE MATCH – KANE vs. UNDERTAKER! The winner goes to the Elimination Chamber to challenge for the World Championship. As Kane celebrates his convincing win, the camera switches to the locker room and shows Christian preparing. Another man who has a huge match to earn himself a place in the Elimination Chamber. However, if people think Kane and Undertaker have it tough, Christian has it worse – a Handicap match against the Royal Rumble winner John Cena and the World Champion CM Punk.

*** RAW REBOUND ***

A video airs that reminds us of the action from this week’s edition of Monday Night RAW where the four main contenders to become Number 1 contender for Wade Barrett’s WWE Championship were determined. It focuses on the issues between Triple H and Kurt Angle and begins with Hunter stating that he deserves a fair, one on one shot at Barrett’s WWE Championship after Nexus’ involvement cost him on Sunday at the Rumble. Clips of the Rumble are shown as well as Kurt Angle’s actions the week before that meant Triple H had to face Barrett with Nexus at ringside in the first place. Angle’s interruption is shown as he vows that he will never be spoken down to by Hunter again before HBK’s announcement that there will be four matches tonight to determine the four men to battle for the Number 1 contendership next week. Quick clips of Daniel Bryan’s win over Sheamus, John Morrison’s victory over Edge (controversially) and Miz beating Orton thanks to Cena’s distraction. We then focus on the main event where Kurt Angle and Triple H would face each other for the final Fatal Four Way spot. Clips of the match and some big moves are shown before we see Hunter set up for the Pedigree and then ... two mystery men dressed in red, white and blue arrive and cause a distraction that allows Angle to hit the Angle Slam to earn the 1, 2, 3 and a place in next week’s Number 1 contender match. As the video ends, Triple H looks pissed off in the ring as Angle and the two mystery men back away up the ramp smiling ...

NEXT WEEK: Daniel Bryan vs. John Morrison vs. Kurt Angle vs The Miz (Winner to challenge for WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber)​

SMACKDOWN returns and Foley and Grisham discuss the mystery men who appeared during the main event to aid Kurt Angle in qualifying for the Number 1 contender match. Neither of them know the identity of the two mystery men but Grisham says that they have pictures of the two men and they show them ...

Grisham says that nothing has been heard from Kurt Angle or the two mystery men since Monday night so it appears that the WWE Universe will need to wait until Monday night to find out more about the acquaintances of the Olympian, Kurt Angle. The camera switches backstage to Josh Mathews who is stood waiting with his microphone ready to conduct an interview ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time ... the World Heavyweight Champion, CM PUNK!

A mixed reaction to Punk although there are more cheers than there has been after his show of respect for Christian earlier tonight when he interrupted John Cena’s interview in the ring. Punk looks troubled as he adjusts his World Championship over his shoulder, he sighs as he turns to speak to Josh Mathews ...

JOSH MATHEWS:
Tonight, Punk, you team up with the Royal Rumble winner, John Cena, to face off against Christian in a Handicap match. It appeared that, earlier tonight, you didn’t seem pleased by this. What are your thoughts now?

Punk turns and stares towards Mathews, a look of bewilderment on his face, as he considers his response to the question. Punk looks completely torn over the situation. He thinks carefully for a second and then answers ...

CM PUNK:
Josh, you don’t need to be Einstein to realise that I’m not happy over the situation. Last Sunday night, I faced Christian for my World Heavyweight Championship and we went at it big time. The only way I could defeat him was to lock in the Anaconda Vice and hold it until he could no longer remain conscious.

Punk reaches up and scratches the side of his face, he is in a real quandary here ...

CM PUNK:
Do I like Christian? No, not particularly. But I respect the hell outta’ him after his efforts last Sunday. He didn’t tap out, he fought and fought until he couldn’t remain conscious anymore. With the Elimination Chamber up ahead, I want to see Christian in the match, I want the chance to beat him fair and decisively in the middle of the ring.

Some admiration from the WWE Universe for Punk’s words.

CM PUNK:
You see, Josh, when I claim to be the ‘Best in the World’ I mean it. I prove it each and every night and the whole world is now looking on and thinking to themselves ... “What if Christian hadn’t passed out? Could CM Punk have beaten him?”

Punk shakes his head a little ...

CM PUNK:
That irritates me. I have a need to prove that I can beat Christian. I have a need to prove that I am what I say I am – the ‘Best in the World’ – by beating Christian for the World Heavyweight Championship. That is why I want to see Christian given a place in the Chamber.

Punk laughs to himself ...

CM PUNK:
I want to beat Christian to prove that I am worthy of holding this. Punk lifts up the title belt. And regardless of what Michael Cole might want, I want to beat him in a fair contest. I have no interest in having a moron like Cole help me to win a match, I have no interest in teaming with Cena to defeat Christian. I didn’t need no help from Cole to win this title – I don’t want no help from Cole to retain it either.

Punk looks a little fired up, he looks insulted that Cole has tried so hard to help him lately ...

CM PUNK:
But whilst I don’t want to win a title with Cole’s help, I certainly don’t want to lose my title because of Michael Cole. In the main event tonight, I have been forced by Cole to team up with Cena to face Christian in a Handicap match. If I beat Christian, he will not get a chance to be in the Elimination Chamber, I won’t have my chance to prove that I am a worthy World Champion again. If I allow Christian to get the win, Michael Cole will begin to do what he can to cost me the World Championship. I can tell you know, I am not willing to let that happen.

Punk shakes his head as he turns to face the camera.

CM PUNK:
Michael Cole, let me tell you something. I am the World Heavyweight Champion because I am the best and I will not allow you to take that away from me. Tonight, I will beat Christian, I will reluctantly team with Cena and I will ensure that Christian misses out on the Elimination Chamber. But don’t you think I’m doing it to help you. For what it is worth, I still believe Christian should be in the Elimination Chamber. Not because the fans want him there – I don’t care what they think. Mild heat for this statement. But because I want to face him and prove who the better man is. I suggest that you make it happen.

Punk turns and exits leaving Josh to thank him and the camera switches to the locker room where Christian is shown watching Punk’s interview on the monitor. He nods his head at Punk’s words, he seems to be in agreement with them as he prepares for his match. In walks Matt Striker with a microphone and Christian smiles to him showing him that he is prepared to speak to him ...

MATT STRIKER:
Christian, man, tonight you can qualify for the Elimination Chamber World Championship match. A wonderful opportunity but there is the problem of the match being a Handicap match against the World Champion and the Royal Rumble winner as per the orders of the SMACKDOWN General Manager, Michael Cole. Thoughts?

Christian grimaces as Striker asks the question, he is clearly upset over the situation that he finds himself in. He shakes his head a little before speaking ...

CHRISTIAN:
Michael Cole, there is a name not to mention to most people in the SMACKDOWN locker room. Since he became General Manager, all he has done is make matches and situations that suit him and the people he likes. People like Cena, people that say the right things to him, people that creep around him, people that benefit him. Back at Vengeance when I defeated Matt Hardy to earn a shot at CM Punk’s World Championship, Cole tried to belittle me and Matt in front of the worldwide audience. Since then, he has intimated that I didn’t deserve to face CM Punk for the title, he tried to interfere in my title match and now he is working against me to try and ensure I won’t be in the Elimination Chamber match ...

Christian pauses as he considers his next words carefully ...

CHRISTIAN:
Now, I have just listened to CM Punk’s words and I agree with what he is saying. I know that tonight he has no choice but to work with Cena to try and defeat me. I understand that. And I appreciate his attempts to get me another title shot at the Elimination Chamber. Fact is – I was this close ... Christian holds up his thumb and finger to indicate. ... to winning the World Championship last Sunday. I wasn’t willing to give up my dream, I refused to tap out and I only lost because I passed out. Tonight, I am going to give it everything I have got. It’s the only chance I’ve got to earn myself a spot in the Chamber – Cole isn’t going to give me another chance. Stranger things have happened, Matt. You never know – I might be able to pull off a miracle.

Christian winks at Striker and then turns to leave the locker room as Striker thanks him. The cameras switch back to the ring where the WWE Universe are ready and waiting for the main event to begin ...

*** MY TIME IS NOW ***

*** JOHN CENA ***​

Cena heads out for the second time this evening, he looks as if he is determined to end Christian’s dream here tonight. He mocks the fans by waving his hand over his face again and then makes his way towards the ring as Grisham reminds us of Cena’s busy last few days: winning the Rumble on Sunday; distracting Orton and costing him his WWE Championship chance on RAW; and now facing Christian to try and end his World Championship chances tonight. Foley suggests that getting on with and working well with CM Punk tonight might prove to be his hardest challenge of the week ...

*** THIS FIRE BURNS ***

*** CM PUNK ***
World Heavyweight Champion​

Punk comes out looking less than impressed with what he has to do tonight. He is so annoyed that he doesn’t even drop to a knee and call out that it is ‘clobbering time’ – he simply walks to the ring where he is eyeballing John Cena who is stood in the ring waiting. Cena gestures to Punk to get into the ring, he is mocking Punk over the fact that he has got to assist him in this match. Punk steps into the ring and he walks towards the Royal Rumble winner – Grisham comments that as it stands – with a long way to go, of course – this is the WrestleMania 27 main event. World Champion CM Punk vs. Royal Rumble winner John Cena. How are they going to co-exist in this match against Christian?

*** COMMERCIAL BREAK ***​

SMACKDOWN returns with Michael Cole shown on the commentary table alongside Foley and Grisham. He is insulting both of the commentators whilst demanding that Punk does what he has told him to do ...

*** JUST CLOSE YOUR EYES ***

*** CHRISTIAN ***​

Out walks Christian to a great reception, the WWE Universe are fully behind him tonight as he surveys them looking for his Peeps. He walks to the ring and he climbs through the ring ropes where he comes face to face with his opponents in this Handicap match. Cole is clearly adamant that Punk and Cena will team up to destroy Christian’s dream here tonight. Cena mocks Christian and his chances here tonight whilst CM Punk watches on, a grim look on his face as he considers what he has to do tonight. The referee checks on all three men, takes CM Punk’s World Championship belt and signals for the match to begin ...

MAIN EVENT HANDICAP MATCH: If Christian wins, he earns a spot in the SMACKDOWN Elimination Chamber match
CHRISTIAN vs. CM PUNK & JOHN CENA

The match starts with Christian going up against Cena with Punk waiting for the tag from his ‘partner’ on the outside. Christian and Cena work well together as usual and Christian manages to get on top when he climbs to the top rope to hit a Plancha to Cena on the outside of the ring. Rolling Cena back into the ring, the Rumble winner takes the easy way out and makes a rather forceful tag to CM Punk who reluctantly enters the ring. Punk and Christian stand looking at each other and Punk looks troubled. He clearly tells Christian that he has no choice and the pair of them begin with a tie up that leads to Christian getting on top again as he continues to put up a fight here. A springboard shoulder block to Punk brings the first pinfall attempt but Christian can only hold Punk down for a 2. Cena begins to berate Punk from the outside and something isn’t right with Punk – maybe his heart isn’t in this but he seems a second slower all the time and Christian has his number. Finally, Punk manages some offense and he catches Christian coming towards him in the corner with a boot but his attempted bulldog fails when Christian tosses him away across the ring instead. Punk gets to his knees, shakes his head and ignores Cena who reaches over and slaps Punk on the back, a tag in. As Punk looks at Cena with a look of disdain, Cena smirks and motions a title belt around his waist before going after Christian and catching him with a kick to the gut. Cena takes control and he looks to be getting the better of Christian before he tags CM Punk back in who – again, seemingly reluctant – goes to work on Christian. Punk sets up for the Go To Sleep but Christian is able to fight out of it and he elbows Punk to the head before setting Punk up once more ... KILLSWITCH! CHRISTIAN SURPRISES PUNK WITH THE KILLSWITCH! The WWE Universe is in shock as Christian looks to have Punk beat, he hooks the leg ... 1 ... 2 ... 3! No! Cena rescues Punk just in time with a shot to Christian’s exposed head. Punk rolls over and looks to Cena who looks annoyed with him now. Cena berates Punk some more and really rips into him for almost losing the match. Cena goes back to his spot on the apron and demands Punk finish Christian now, instead Punk walks over to Cena and slap him hard across the face. Wow! Cena swings for Punk who ducks and drags Cena into the ring, he lifts him onto his shoulders all of a sudden ... GO TO SLEEP! PUNK HITS CENA WITH THE GTS! The WWE Universe are actually cheering CM Punk for his actions now but he then spoils it as he looks over at Christian who is climbing up opposite. Punk catches him in the corner with a running knee and follows with a Bulldog ... The referee is trying to speak to Punk but he ignores him, he is now fired up and is ready to fight with whoever he has to. Punk drags Christian up and lifts him onto his shoulders ... GO TO SLEEP! CHRISTIAN IS HIT WITH THE GTS THIS TIME! Punk makes the cover and hooks the leg ... but the referee fails to make a count. Cena is the legal man! When Punk slapped Cena, the referee took it as a tag! CM Punk holds his head in shock as Christian rolls out of the ring and the referee begins to count both men out. The referee reaches 7 and Cena rolls back into the ring ... Will Christian make it? Suddenly, Punk runs round the ring and he drags Christian up ... 8 ... Christian is about to be counted out but Punk seems to be helping him ... 9 ... Punk rolls Christian into the ring to the amazement of Cena who demands to know what CM Punk is playing at! Punk ignores him and returns to the corner as Cena continues to have a pop at him before grabbing Christian and lifting him up to his shoulders ... FU! CENA HITS THE FU TO CHRISTIAN! Christian is down and out but Cena doesn’t make the pinfall; instead he tags in Punk again and points to Christian, demanding Punk finish the job. On the ramp, look who is here ...

*** MICHAEL COLE ***​

Cole wanders down the ramp and stands with his hands in his pocket outside the ring. He glares at Punk and orders him to finish Christian as well but Punk remains stoic in the ring. Punk is in a real dilemma here, will he finish Christian’s dream or will he sacrifice himself? Cole climbs onto the apron and the pressure from Cena and Cole increases, they are both demanding Punk finish it but Christian is showing signs of life. Christian pulls himself up with the ropes and Cole shouts to Punk to finish it ... Christian spots Cole and grabs him by the lapels of his jacket, Cole swings and punches Christian in the face ... As Cole orders the referee not to signal for a DQ, Christian spins into the path of Punk ... GO TO SLEEP! PUNK HITS THE GTS TO CHRISTIAN! The crowd are disappointed but you sense they understand as Punk drops down and covers Christian ...

** 1 **
** 2 **
** 3 **​

WINNER:
CM PUNK & JOHN CENA (7:12) via pinfall

Punk rolls away from Christian after his pinfall – he stands up and looks down to Christian with a look of what appears to be dismay at what he has had to do. He looks over to a delighted Michael Cole and Cena with a look of disgust as they back away. Cole, laughing to himself, gives Punk a mocking thumbs up before walking away from the ring smirking, Cena again signals that he is going to take CM Punk’s World Championship soon. As Christian rolls over and realises what has happened, he looks up at Punk who holds his arms out as if to ask what else he could have done. Punk exits the ring and he looks up the ramp towards the SMACKDOWN General Manager who continues to smirk as the camera switches between the men involved in tonight’s main event ... SMACKDOWN comes to a close with Christian looking devastated as he fails to earn his title opportunity thanks to Michael Cole. Join us next week on SMACKDOWN: Matt Hardy vs. Jeff Hardy, Undertaker vs. Kane in a Buried Alive match and who will be given the final Elimination Chamber spot? Find out next Friday!

*** END OF SHOW ***

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

ELIMINATION CHAMBER 2011
*** CONFIRMED MATCHES ***

SMACKDOWN ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CM Punk (c) vs. Big Show vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Jeff/Matt Hardy vs. Kane/Undertaker vs. ???

RAW ELIMINATION CHAMBER MATCH TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR WWE CHAMPIONSHIP AT WRESTLEMANIA 27
??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ??? vs. ???

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wade Barrett (c) vs. Daniel Bryan/John Morrison/Kurt Angle/The Miz

DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP
Maryse (c) vs. Layla vs. Michelle McCool (?)

*** SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON PAY PER VIEW ***​

 

[The Cult]

Hey GCB mate, been looking forward to Smackdown since the Rumble, Smackdown is probably my prefered show over Raw so lets get to it.

I've got to say I love Cole as GM! I think you've got him nailed on the mic so props for that mate. Cena's out, more good work on the mic there from Cena engaging the crowd into it very well. Well the main event is set, a controversial one at that Cole has definitely got it in for Christian.

Quick match here as expected. I couldn't imagine Show and Henry in a 30 minute classic. Not much to say about this one other than the right man won. Well I know you were teasing it but I think you could have kept Hawkins and Ryder together but hopefully we see a good match between the two. Swagger? I'm at a loss here, I'm guessing Swagger might be a new partner for Hawkins. I like Swagger so I hope you use him well.

I've really enjoyed the way you built Kofi up so I hope he gets the spot in the Chamber. And he does, very happy about that and with Mysterio returning as well. Up next Rhodes vs. Mysterio, I think we'll see Del Rio here and we do. Mysterio gets the expected victory but Del Rio gets some revenge for earlier an attacks. Nice move bringing Henry and Bourne out for the save due to their recent problems with Del Rio.

Buried Alive next week!? not sure how I feel, on one hand it should be a great match however I think a match of that magnitude should be on PPV. I'm looking forward to seeing the way it is booked though. Empire vs. Hardy Boys, I'm not to sure here I think a Hardy's win might make the Empire look a bit weak but it is the Hardy's after all. And they get the win, WOW! Hardy vs. Hardy next week, looking forward to that and I think Matt might sneak the win. Show taking out Kofi builds a little more tension between the two so good move. Kane beats Bourne with relative ease, building a little momentum for next week so well done.

Now I'm not the biggest fan of this, the mystery men Mcgillicutty and from the picture Percy Watson, I'm assuming Mcgillicutty will debut under the name Joe Henning as Mcgillicutty is a pretty poor name. Don't know about Watson. I can't tell by the picture but it looks like Watson. Hope they come in with a bang on Monday as it left me a bit underwhelmed if I'm honest. Good Punk interview, I really like his tweener role and I'm expecting something controversial in the Main Event.

I liked the Main Event, thought you wrote Punk being reluctant very well and Cena being a bit of a smart ass tagging in Punk to finish the job. I think Christian will get revenge on Cole soon enough, maybe at WrestleMania? I definitely think the Mania Main Event is Cena vs. Punk

Overall I enjoyed reading Smackdown, there was some things I didn't agree with but I'm looking forward to next week with Matt vs. Jeff and Taker vs. Kane. Good read GCB mate.

 

[JamJam]

JAM's Review​

I'm likin' the new format you got going on here GCB. Although the text is a little small to read but nonetheless, the presentation is fine. Better than your last one if you ask me. Well anyway, here's a review for ya.

I still haven't gotten used to Cena being a heel for some reason. Maybe you need to change his theme music or something? But the opening segment was brilliant man. To open the show you had Cole start it out which instigated heat for him and then later on, you bring him out again, busy guy huh. You're doing a good job at keeping Punk tweener, I actually prefer him this way. But I think he'll definitely turn face soon enough since he was vouching for Christian to be in the Elimination Chamber. The exchange between the three men were terrific. With Cole finding a way to make Christian's qualifying match a hard one, it's definitely interesting to see what Punk does.

Not really sure that breaking up Ryder and Hawkins was a good move. They were definitely a good team man, and an established one at that. The teams you have are relatively new, like your champions the British Empire so it'd take a while to really establish them. And I don't really understand this by involving Swagger? Seems a bit random if you ask me. Really random booking, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. In this case, it doesn't.

Definitely likin' that Kofi advances but I think that's already the second time for someone to interfere in a match. I do think it makes Kofi look kind of weak here instead of him looking smart by taking the advantage of the distraction that Mysterio took. With the leap that Kofi has been takin' recently, I think it would've been better if he won clean against the IC Champion then have Del Rio go on a mean streak. Just my opinion though.

Again, having a returning Mysterio come out once again? Del Rio had to interfere here. Despite it being after the match, I like the mean streak that Del Rio showed here. I do understand that Del Rio has had issues with both Henry and Bourne but I think if they were kept out of it, it would've been better. Keeping Del Rio lookin' strong.

Haha Cole's been on fire with his asshole-ness tonight. I predicted that this would happen and I think it's very smart of you to capitalize on the heat that Cole can bring to anyone. I definitely don't think Cole will be your permanent GM, but he's a good GM for now.

Buried Alive Match for an Elimination Chamber Match? Might be a bit much don't you think?

Watson and McGillicutty? They're your mystery men? Really? I expected more out of this man to be honest. Kinda disappointed. However, since you chose them, I think they're definitely going to be debuting with new names, or I can hope that McGillicutty will. I will say that they're pretty okay in the ring, especially Henning after his recent matches with Kidd, they've been amazing. Hopefully this gets interesting man.

And so the main event finishes like that. I like the promos by both Christian and Punk here. I think Christian finds a way to enter the Chamber though. Maybe he goes the route of his best friend, Edge where he brutalizes one of the competitors and takes their spot in the Chamber, that would be great to see. Cole is definitely being established well as a heel GM here too.

Overall, there were things I didn't like and some things that I really liked. I really liked the whole situation going on with Punk and Christian. But that was too much Michael Cole for me, haha. But still, you did a good job in advancing the World Title feud. While the others, well I'll just reserve my opinion on that for now. Not your best show GCB, but definitely not a bad one.