WWE: The Longest-Running Weekly Episodic Cluster of Shows in TV History!

[Harmor]

Nigel McGuinness vs. Wade Barrett

Triple Threat Match for the United States Championship
Alberto Del Rio (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Sin Cara

Tag Team Turmoil Match
Sinister Truth vs. the Mercernaries vs. Air KaBoom vs. the Kings of Wrestling

Shannon Moore vs. Suicide

Cody Rhodes vs. William Regal

World Heavyweight Championship Match
John Cena (C) vs. Brock Lesnar

Randy Orton vs. Ted Dibiase

Undisputed Divas Championship Match
Gail Kim (C) vs. Queen Kong

WWE Championship Match
The Miz (C) vs. John Morrison vs. CM Punk

[BHK1978]

Nigel McGuinness vs. Wade Barrett

Simply because I like Nigel better, I am going to pick him to win.

Triple Threat Match for the United States Championship
Alberto Del Rio (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Sin Cara

To me this is a match between Del Rio and Ziggler. Sin Cara just seems...well there for lack of a better word. I think the champion retains here.

Tag Team Turmoil Match
Sinister Truth vs. the Mercernaries vs. Air KaBoom vs. the Kings of Wrestling

The only team in this match that I would not want to see win are the Mercernaries, now watch them win...


Shannon Moore vs. Suicide




Cody Rhodes vs. William Regal

Rhodes needs this win because it makes for a better storyline, having him be the one that attacked Danielson.

World Heavyweight Championship Match
John Cena (C) vs. Brock Lesnar




Randy Orton vs. Ted Dibiase



Undisputed Divas Championship Match
Gail Kim (C) vs. Queen Kong



WWE Championship Match
The Miz (C) vs. John Morrison vs. CM Punk

The Miz has to lose this...right?

[pauls07]

Nigel McGuinness vs. Wade Barrett



Triple Threat Match for the United States Championship
Alberto Del Rio (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Sin Cara



Tag Team Turmoil Match
Sinister Truth vs. the Mercernaries vs. Air KaBoom vs. the Kings of Wrestling
You know who i pick here



Shannon Moore vs. Suicide




Cody Rhodes vs. William Regal



World Heavyweight Championship Match
John Cena (C) vs. Brock Lesnar




Randy Orton vs. Ted Dibiase



Undisputed Divas Championship Match
Gail Kim (C) vs. Queen Kong



WWE Championship Match
The Miz (C) vs. John Morrison vs. CM Punk

[Rare Kuma]

Nigel McGuinness vs. Wade Barrett
Best accent in England!

Triple Threat Match for the United States Championship
Alberto Del Rio (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Sin Cara
Bit torn between Del Rio and Ziggler, but both could elevate to the main event, while Sin Cara could use a run with the belt to give him something

Tag Team Turmoil Match
Sinister Truth vs. the Mercernaries vs. Air KaBoom vs. the Kings of Wrestling
Best characters in this diary.

Shannon Moore vs. Suicide
No unmasking for now....

Cody Rhodes vs. William Regal
Regal is great, but Rhodes is great too, and young.

World Heavyweight Championship Match
John Cena (C) vs. Brock Lesnar
To mimic his initial world title win back in 2002

Randy Orton vs. Ted Dibiase
Orton is meh, and Dibiase is a future legend for you.

Undisputed Divas Championship Match
Gail Kim (C) vs. Queen Kong

WWE Championship Match
The Miz (C) vs. John Morrison vs. CM Punk
This is Punk's time to shine.

[Jingo]

Nigel McGuinness vs. Wade Barrett
Personal preference ...
Triple Threat Match for the United States Championship
Alberto Del Rio (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Sin Cara
If in doubt stick with the Champ!
Tag Team Turmoil Match
Sinister Truth vs. the Mercernaries vs. Air KaBoom vs. the Kings of Wrestling
Love your interpretation of them.
Shannon Moore vs. Suicide
Could go other way but ... I'm not picking against Shannon Moore!
Cody Rhodes vs. William Regal
No reason for Regal to win here ... Sorry William.
World Heavyweight Championship Match
John Cena (C) vs. Brock Lesnar
Stick with the champ ..Just.
Randy Orton vs. Ted Dibiase
Never seen anything in Orton myself .. And sorry you haven't changed my mind yet ...
Undisputed Divas Championship Match
Gail Kim (C) vs. Queen Kong
Gail cannot beat the mighty Kong!
WWE Championship Match
The Miz (C) vs. John Morrison vs. CM Punk
Love Miz but .. I'm going for a Summer of Punk!!

[Destiny]

Nigel McGuinness vs. Wade Barrett

Triple Threat Match for the United States Championship
Alberto Del Rio (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Sin Cara

Tag Team Turmoil Match
Sinister Truth vs. the Mercernaries vs. Air KaBoom vs. the Kings of Wrestling

Shannon Moore vs. Suicide

Cody Rhodes vs. William Regal

World Heavyweight Championship Match
John Cena (C) vs. Brock Lesnar

Randy Orton vs. Ted Dibiase

Undisputed Divas Championship Match
Gail Kim (C) vs. Queen Kong

WWE Championship Match
The Miz (C) vs. John Morrison vs. CM Punk

[Kijar]

(;

Nigel McGuinness vs. Wade Barrett

Triple Threat Match for the United States Championship
Alberto Del Rio (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Sin Cara

Tag Team Turmoil Match
Sinister Truth vs. the Mercernaries vs. Air KaBoom vs. the Kings of Wrestling

Shannon Moore vs. Suicide

Cody Rhodes vs. William Regal

World Heavyweight Championship Match
John Cena (C) vs. Brock Lesnar

Randy Orton vs. Ted Dibiase

Undisputed Divas Championship Match
Gail Kim (C) vs. Queen Kong

WWE Championship Match
The Miz (C) vs. John Morrison vs. CM Punk

[michgcs]

Pre-Show:

Kane def. the Big Show
The match had excellent in-ring action and great heat. The match suffered because there wasn't enough selling shown.
Rating: 81

WWE Presents: SUMMERSLAM

Matt Striker: The stars are out, the Universe is ready, and the Georgia Dome is ROCKING! Ladies and gentlemen, THIS is Summerslam!
Joey Styles: The Biggest Party of the Summer is ready to kick things off, guys! Welcome to Summerslam!
Jim Ross: Jim Ross, Joey Styles, and Matt Striker at your service, folks, and the good ol' U. S. of A.'s about to get a taste of that international flavor that the WWE brings!
Styles: Coming to you live from hundreds of countries worldwide, including England!
Ross: And we're opening the night with a pair rough-and-tumble Englishmen, Joey! The Intercontinental Champion Nigel McGuinness, and Mr. Money in the Bank, Wade Barrett!
Striker: Bad news has been brewing from Friday Night Smackdown!, J.R. These two superstars are proud of their country, their heritage, and their accomplishments.
Ross: And pride is exactly what's on the line here tonight, Matt. Barrett and McGuinness, one-on-one.


This opening bout, is for ONE FALL...!

Wade Barrett def. Nigel McGuinness (C) in a non-title match

This wasn't the hard-hitting, drag-it-out affair that most experts believed it would be, at least not at first. The Lone Wolf got the upper hand by attacking when his opponent's back was turned, but after Wade Barrett recovered and evened things up, McGuinness took to the outside, trying to avoid the bigger Barrett's clutches. The Intercontinental Champion even resorts to hiding behind his manager, resulting in a Barrett feint that lands Vickie on her behind. The two brawlers battle it out at ringside, with Nigel McGuinness rolling back inside to again escape from his determined foe. He gets the Swinging Side Slam (and a two-count) for his efforts.

Styles: Looks like Nigel McGuinness is in trouble, guys-- y'think he better head back home to jolly ol' England?
Ross: I think that's exactly what he's doing, Joey-- the Intercontinental Champion grabbing his gold and-- that ain't no way for a Champion to act, DAMMIT! Stay in this fight!
Striker: The Lone Wolf walking out of the match, presumably, leaving Vickie Guerrero to reason with the referee--
Styles: Wait, it's Barrett! Barrett's going after him!
Striker: Ooh! And the New-Age Legend Killer gets hit, square in the head with that Intercontinental Championship, Joey.
Ross: DAMMIT, ref! Open your eyes, ref!
Striker: You thought he was a coward, J.R., but it turns out that Nigel was just shrewd like a fox!

The undetected cheap shot gives McGuinness full control of the match, and he capitalizes, systematically wearing Wade Barrett down with a series of holds and painful locks. Barrett repeatedly tries to break free, only to be trapped in yet another hold. The Bare Knuckle Brawler finally counters, swinging the momentum around with a huge neckbreaker. The action speeds up, with the Barrett Barrage gaining steam after Mr. Money in the Bank connects with his signature knee lifts to the trapped McGuinness. Barrett mocks the crowd before heading up to the top rope-- only for it to backfire after the Lone Wolf rolls out of the way of his Diving Elbow Drop! Nigel McGuinness rolls to his feet, LARIA-- no! The Intercontinental Champion misses his mark! McGuinness stops on a dime, but Barrett still turns him around-- Wasteland! Wade Barrett hits the Wasteland, and gets the win!

Ross: A back-and-forth match-up with Mr. Money in the Bank picking up the victory!
Striker: A slobber knocker to kick things off, eh, J.R.?
Ross: You bet, Matt! Those two young men tried to beat each other like government mules, but Wade Barrett with the convincing win here at Summerslam!
Styles: The Intercontinental Champion's not gonna be happy after this loss, guys-- Vickie's shrieking her head off, already!
Striker: The rest of the Minoriteam coming in and making sure their leader is out of harm's way, gentlemen, as we prepare for our second match.

The bout featured great action and great heat.
Rating: 81



Styles: If you thought Barrett versus McGuinness was hard-hitting, well, this one's going to be a doozy, Matt! Monday Night RAW's United States Championship will be on the line as Alberto Del Rio defends against Dolph Ziggler and Sin Cara!
Ross: I know his two other opponents have more WWE experience, Joey, but I like what the International Sensation brings to the table. The mix of traditional, lucha libre style along with his fearless, high-flying athleticism, Sin Cara's got a great chance of winning this match!
Striker: I like how you think, J.R., but I have to admit, I'm rooting for El Patron here. He's done an admirable job in keeping his gold, and I think he extends his reign with a decisive victory here tonight.
Ross: A match like this doesn't do the Champion any favors, though, Matt.


The following contest, is for the UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP...!

Dolph Ziggler def. Alberto Del Rio and Sin Cara to win the United States Championship

The United States Champion had it all planned out. He quickly escaped the ring and left his two challengers to duke it out early, and neither one disappointed. The two contenders were a contrast in styles: Sin Cara was a bundle of energy, always looking to hit his next spectacular move, while Dolph Ziggler was more calm and deliberate, taking this match more seriously than he's ever done before. Sin Cara's speed meant that Ziggler didn't have much time to react-- a springboard arm drag, a rebound crossbody, then a quick hurracanrana, the International Sensation had the WWE Universe 'ooh'-ing and 'aah'-ing in amazement. The action was almost too fast to call, and with the Champoin dropping in to try and steal the quick pin, it was as unpredictable as ever.

Ross: So far, Sin Cara living up to the hype, folks! I said it before the match began, and I'll say it again, that young man has a GREAT chance of walking out of Summerslam with the United States Championship!
Styles: The only one who's failed to get things going is Ziggler, J.R. Maybe he needs his buddy Zack Ryder for good luck, huh?
Striker: The Mexican Aristocrat executing his strategy to a "T," gentlemen. Alberto Del Rio wants the maximum reward for the minimum effort!
Ross: Well he's getting a bit of unwanted attention from his challengers, Matt, and rightfully so. He can't get a free ride and just swoop in and steal the win--!
Styles: Dolph Ziggler doing what he can to get the upper hand, J.R. The Picture of Perfection with some quick slams, and-- what is he doing?!
Striker: Is he-- are those sit-ups?! Ziggler's working out in the middle of a match!

The egoistic Ziggler quickly snaps out of it, instead blocking a would-be Sin Cara top rope attack and turning it into a superplex. Ziggler turns his attention to El Patron, rekindling a rivalry between two proud men. The two superstars exchange shots, but Ziggler counters what would have been the Cross Arm Breaker, turning it into a slingshot-- right into a springboard senton by Sin Cara. A boot to the face and an impressive jumping legdrop bulldog nets Ziggler a near-fall, but Del Rio shoves him to the outside, hitting his running enzuigiri and locking in the Cross Arm Breaker on Sin Cara. Before the masked superstar could tap, though, Ziggler pulls him to the bottom rope, forcing the referee to call for a break. The Picture of Perfection slides back into the ring, pushing Del Rio right into Sin Cara (who made his way out to the apron), and ZigZag! Ziggler hits his finisher! Ziggler makes the cover-- 1! 2! 3!

Styles: NEW CHAMPION! NEW CHAMPION! We've got a new Champion, J.R.!
Ross: Dolph Ziggler is the United States Champion! BAH GAWD Ziggler did it!
Striker: You've got to feel sorry for Alberto Del Rio, gentlemen. The guy walks in with all the confidence in the world, and what does he get in return? He loses his gold!
Styles: Are you kidding me right now, Matt?
Ross: In the words of the WWE Champion, Matt: Really?

The match had excellent in-ring action and great heat.
Rating: 87




Speaking of Champions, the World Heavyweight Champion is backstage with what looks to be some words for his challenger.

John Cena: Tonight, the war to end all wars happens. A battle for the ages, a clash of titans-- tonight, the Champ is here, and he defends against what might be my toughest challenge yet: a near-300 pound monster of a man, a BAD man at that, in Brock Lesnar. Now we won't be going on last-- that's reserved for the WWE Championship and that ultra-dangerous TLC match Miz, Morrison, and Punk are gonna be in. Believe me, I know first-hand what falling off of a ladder onto a wooden table can do to you, so best of luck to you three later on. Stay safe, gentlemen. Now back to the matter on hand-- Brock. Lesnar.

Cena smiles and shakes his head in disbelief.

Brock, we all know Minny breeds 'em big and fast and strong, we get that. Your combination of size, skill, strength, and power is UNPARALLELED and you're well on your way to greatness, a sure-fire future Hall of Famer--! We KNOW that, Brock, so you don't have to keep repeating yourself. We also know that if I let you win tonight--? If I back down, if I show even the slightest bit of FEAR in our match tonight, we KNOW-- you know, and I know-- that it's going to spell the end. The end for Friday Night Smackdown!, the end for the WWE. I'm what's standing between you and total dominance, Brock, between you and total annihilation. I have to win, Brock. You KNOW I have to win. And tonight--? Here under the bright lights of Summerslam--? I WILL walk out, STILL World Heavyweight Champion.

Cena salutes the camera and we go back to ringside.
Rating: 100



Styles: We've already seen one championship change hands tonight, J.R., will we see another one when the Natural Phenomenon meets the leader of the CeNation?
Ross: John Cena versus Brock Lesnar is a highly-anticipated match-up, Joey, and all I can say is it won't disappoint!
Striker: Speaking of highly-anticipated, gentlemen-- you have to believe that the World's Finest are going to be intently watching our next match.
Ross: Four teams vie for the right to be called the #1 Contenders for the WWE World Tag Team Championships, Matt. Three teams from Friday Night Smackdown!, and one from RAW.
Striker: And it won't take a rocket scientist to figure out which team you're rooting for, right, J.R.?
Styles: To be honest, Matt, I'm rooting for Air KaBoom, myself. I just love me a good underdog story!


This next match, is the TAG TEAM TURMOIL MATCH!

Air KaBoom def. Sinister Truth and the Kings of Wrestling and the Mercernaries to be named #1 Contenders for the WWE World Tag Team Championships

The majority of the match was controlled by the Mercernaries, with Tom Mercer starting things off against Jay Lethal. The big man just throws his smaller opponent around, and for a while it looked like all hope was lost for Air KaBoom. Lethal manages to survive, though-- long enough to tag out, reaching for the nearest outstretched hand he could touch. In this case, it was the Sinister Scotsman, Drew Mcintyre who made his entrance. Mcintyre goes toe-to-toe with Tom Mercer, who immediately finds that his bigger foe wouldn't be as easily intimidated, opting to tag out and let Chris Hero do the work, instead. It was a masterful back-and-forth from both men, Mcintyre with his hard-hitting style, Hero with his constant knock-out-seeking approach. The flamboyant Hero tags in Kofi Kingston, and the Dreadlocked Dynamo doesn't miss a beat, immediately taking Mcintyre out with a huge springboard overhead chop.

Styles: Kofi Kingston coming out on fire, guys! Kofi's just taking the fight to Drew Mcintyre!
Striker: And the self-proclaimed Chosen One quickly looking for a breather, Joey, tagging in the Unified ECW Champion, who looks just a little more unhinged than usual.
Ross: Truth finding some success against one-half of Air KaBoom, Matt-- it looks like R-Truth's all set to-- NO! Kofi avoids the Axe-Kick! Trouble in Paradise! Kofi connects!
Styles: What a shot, J.R.! Kofi hits Trouble in Paradise, but I think it took more of a toll than we realize--
Striker: Kofi staggering back towards the ropes, gentlemen--
Ross: No! Make the cover, kid! Make the cover!

Tad Mercer doesn't waste time, getting in a blind tag and pinning R-Truth to eliminate Sinister Truth from the match. Claudio Castagnoli quickly enters and tries to steal another elimination with a roll-up, but the plan is quickly foiled, and another brawl erupts, this time between the six remaining superstars in the match. In what may perhaps have been a surprising twist of luck, both members of Air KaBoom are quickly tossed out, along with Double C, leaving Chris Hero-- who was now the legal man-- to fend for himself against the onslaught that was the Mercernaries. A Double Chokeslam sends the Kings of Wrestling to the showers, and what looked like an easy win for Kurt Angle's proteges turned out to be something else entirely. Jay Lethal and Kofi Kingston somehow stay alive amidst the beating that Tad and Tom administer, each one watching the other's back, until somehow, some way, it all just clicked. What should have been a Double Chokeslam finish is instead countered into a double-DDT by Kofi Kingston. The crowd absolutely erupts as Kofi signals for Trouble in Paradise... and he hits it! Tom Mercer is down and out! Kofi tags in Jay Lethal! Lethal up top! Lethal with the Elbow! Air KaBoom get the win!

Ross: Kofi Kingston and Jay Lethal! BAH GAWD Air KaBoom has exploded into another stratosphere!
Styles: Air KaBoom moving on to challenge the World's Finest for the WWE World Tag Team Championships! Who would've thunk it, J.R.?
Striker: Certainly not me, Joey. Although J.R. and yourself admitted to favoring the two RAW superstars--
Styles: But how often does the decided underdog sneak out a win, Matt? This is amazing!
Ross: And well-deserved, Joey. Congratulations to Air KaBoom, they earned this victory!

The bout featured action and great heat.
Rating: 79




We get another backstage segment: this time, the entire Zack Pack is in their locker room, celebrating Dolph Ziggler's big win. The entire room is filled with excitement, with the Ultimate Broskis pouring champagne while hopping up and down, and Ryder and AJ fist-pumping to their hearts' delight.

Zack Ryder: YEAH! You did it, bro! YEAH! *pumps fist*

The new United States Champion just stares at the rest of the Zack Pack, his mouth open in surprise.

Dolph Ziggler: C'mon, you guys--
Ryder: Bro! It's time to party! There's gonna be a party in the L. I., bro! WOO--!
Brodus Clay: WOO!
Byron Saxton: WOO!

A sudden pause as everyone looks at AJ Lee.

AJ Lee: You know it--?

...And the Pack goes wild. The Broskis (and Ryder) are jumping up and down, and AJ has a shy, awkward smile on her face-- everyone seems to be celebrating. Everyone except Dolph Ziggler.

Ryder: Hey, uh, Dolph-- what's wrong, bro? You don't look too happy for someone who just won the United States Championship.

An overzealous Byron Saxton starts to pour champagne over Ziggler's head, but the Picture of Perfection shoves him away.

Ziggler: This championship-- it's meant the world to me for the past six months. I mean, sure, I've had other matches--
Ryder: Like our Wrestlemania match, bro? It was SIIIIIICK!
Ziggler: But the United States Championship was my ultimate goal. And now that I have it--? Heh. I'm going to be the longest-reigning United States Champion in history. When all is said and done, "Dolph Ziggler" will be a name that is synonymous to "Champion," and no one-- NO ONE will ever call me a joke, again.
Ryder: Hey, bro-- does this mean I get a shot at your championship?

Ziggler shoots Ryder an angry look, and Ryder immediately shuts up.

Ziggler: Were you even listening to a WORD I said?! Zack, this United States Championship-- it belongs around my waist. Around MY waist!
Ryder: Geez, bro, chill out. I was just asking.
Ziggler: Well maybe if your questions weren't so stupid--!

Ziggler looks ready to explode, but decides to cool it, instead.

You know what--? Whatever. I'm outta here, dude. See you tomorrow night.

Ziggler grabs his gold and walks out, making sure to slam the door behind him.

Ryder: Dolph--

The rest of the Zack Pack look on, stunned, only for Brodus Clay to break the silence with a cheap noise-maker, the kind you see at New Year's Eve parties.
Rating: 93



Styles: Oh, boy. Trouble brewing within the Zack Pack camp?
Striker: Well, for one thing, Joey-- I think it shouldn't be called the Zack Pack. Dolph's the one with the United States Championship, after all.
Ross: You can call it whatever you want, Matt, but at the end of the day, there's still going to be some animosity and some mixed feelings in that group.
Striker: And while we're on the subject of animosity, gentlemen, let's roll along to our next match of the evening.
Ross: What's been a hot Summerslam will get even hotter as the fate of NXT presumably hangs in the balance!
Styles: The all-diva show has been doing well for itself so far, J.R., but this mysterious masked man called Suicide has been calling Shannon Moore, the General Manager out for quite some time now!
Striker: Well they finally meet head-to-head, Joey.
Ross: And the stakes couldn't be higher!


This next match, is for ONE FALL!

Suicide vs. Shannon Moore ends in a double count-out

Shannon Moore wastes no time, immediately trying to rip Suicide's mask off. The masked man is able to keep it on, though, fighting off his rabid opponent and holding him off with a couple of right hands followed by a clothesline that sends NXT's GM tumbling to the outside. Suicide quickly follows, gaining some steam then connecting with a crowd-pleasing suicide dive, earning himself a ton of cheers. The masked superstar makes it to his feet first, deciding to engage Moore in a drag-it-out brawl all over ringside. Suicide rams Moore into the barricade, and Moore responds with an eye-poke (through the mask), regaining control after grabbing his challenger by the head and slamming him against the ring post. The action eventually makes its way back inside, and with Shannon Moore in full control, it looked as if the end was drawing near for our masked protagonist.

Striker: The Prince of Punk, the Purveyor of all things Perverted, Shannon Moore doesn't want to release his iron grip on NXT, gentlemen.
Ross: He doesn't want to release his grip on Suicide, too, Matt! If he's not careful, he could very well be disqualified.
Striker: I think the General Manager understands the gravity of the situation, J.R. He won't let himself get DQ-ed just like that... would he?
Styles: Well he's not letting up on the attack on Suicide, Matt. And here he comes, right to another one-- No! Suicide ducked out at the last second!
Ross: That's got to hurt NXT's GM, Joey. Will it hurt him enough for him to lose this match?

Suicide tries to get on a roll, but the damage was done and he wasn't able to sustain enough offense to eke out a win. A sunset flip doesn't work out, and neither does a diving neckbreaker. A springboard legdrop connects, but gets only a two-count. Still, Suicide had to deal with the effects of the punishment his opponent had done, momentarily losing control and grabbing onto the ropes. Shannon Moore takes the opportunity to flip him over the top rope, taking the fight back to the outside where the two men exchange punches for the better part of the referee's ten-count. Moore whips Suicide across the steel steps, but Suicide counters an attempted Mooregasm from the barricade, throwing Moore flat on his back onto the arena floor. The masked man follows up with a Shining Wizard before collapsing beside his fallen adversary, unable to do anything as the referee is forced to finish his ten-count, counting both men out.

Striker: What in the world--? A DOUBLE count-out? Did that just happen, J.R.?
Ross: I guess it did, Matt-- 'cause I heard it, too!
Styles: So hold on a minute. Are you telling me, that the match to decide the fate of NXT... ended in a DRAW?!
Striker: I guess so, Joey!
Ross: It's this sort of wild finish that makes the WWE so exciting, folks!
Styles: Yes, but what happens now, J.R.?

The bout featured great action and a good crowd. The match suffered from a lack of pyschology.
Rating: 75



Styles: From one unknown to another, guys-- do you actually think we'll find out who attacked Bryan Danielson in this next match?
Striker: Cody Rhodes and William Regal are both proud men, Joey, and I don't think either of them will EVER admit to ambushing the American Dragon at last month's Money in the Bank event-- if either of them even DID the deed!
Ross: Innocent until proven guilty, fellas, that's what I always say.
Styles: Well you can be sure that Rhodes is going to be out for blood, J.R. He's been hot on the trail of Regal-- who he claims attacked Danielson just to take his place.
Ross: Cody Rhodes says a lot of things, Joey, and so does Mister Regal. But can they back their words up with action?


This next match is for ONE FALL!

Cody Rhodes def. William Regal

If either man was nervous, they didn't show it. Regal was as calm and collected as ever, while his younger counterpart was visibly on the edge. Cody Rhodes attacks without thinking, and the former Smackdown! General Manager easily turns the tables on the headstrong youngster, applying a variety of holds in an effort to try and calm him down. It only serves to rile him up even more, and the Man in the Plastic Mask erupts with a hard takedown and a flurry of punches, screaming that he was doing this for his friend Bryan Danielson after every one. The referee finally pulls him off and we get an above average match, both men dishing it out while absorbing the other's best. Regal goes for some sneaky tactics, but it backfires on him and Cody Rhodes gets to use his mask as a weapon, instead.

Striker: As a broadcast journalist we were trained to be impartial, but doesn't Cody Rhodes look like he's outdueling William Regal right now? ...No? Just me, then?
Styles: Well he's certainly gotten the upper hand, Matt, but I wouldn't say he's gotten the best of Regal. It's just about even.
Ross: Right now young Mr. Rhodes is teaching Master Regal a thing or two in the ring, Joey--
Styles: Yeah, but look at Regal's face, J.R.! Is he, is he smiling?
Striker: I think he is, Joey, and I shudder to think--
Styles: Holy-- Regal just-- He just countered that DDT into, into the Regal Stretch! Regal Stretch!
Ross: Cody's going to tap! Cody's going to tap!

Cody Rhodes blocks out the pain and fights back, eventually breaking the hold. Regal still had him trapped in a double underhook, though, and-- WHAM! WHAM! WHAM! Sharp knees to the head! Rhodes staggers... European uppercut! And another one! Rhodes bounces off the ropes and takes a wild swing-- Regal-Plex! Regal with the bridge... 1! 2! Kick-out! Rhodes somehow manages to kick out! Undaunted, the veteran grappler sizes his opponent up for the Knee Trembler, when--

The crowd buzzes as Bryan Danielson stumbles out from the back! Danielson was clearly still not a hundred percent, but the American Dragon bravely starts to hobble his way down the ramp. A stunned William Regal again lets his emotions get the best of him, trying to reason with his former student that the ring wasn't a safe place right now. Unfortunately for Regal, he took his mind off the match and allowed Cody Rhodes ample time to recover-- Cross Rhodes! Cody makes the cover, and gets the three.

Styles: What! OHMYGAWD!
Ross: For the second straight month, Bryan Danielson has inadvertently cost William Regal the win!
Striker: Are we sure it was by accident, though? I mean, once is happenstance-- surely twice can't be mere coincidence?
Ross: It doesn't look like we're about to get an answer to that, Matt. Let's take a moment to make sense of all this, folks. Plenty more match-ups to come!

The superb bout had great wrestling and a sizzling crowd.
Rating: 85

We get a surprise visit here at Summerslam: the entire arena goes wild as WWE CEO Shane Mcmahon shuffles his way to the ring, a big smile plastered on his face.

Shane Mcmahon: How's everyone doing tonight--?

*YYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY*

Looks like everyone's having fun out here!

*SHANE! OH! MAC! SHANE! OH! MAC!*

Good, good. We're at the Hottest Party of the Summer, bay-beh! You HAVE to have fun!

*YYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY*

Now if I could be serious for a minute-- I came out here to make an announcement. After going through it with various backstage officials and the Board of Directors, I have decided to make a change in our pay-per-view lineup for the year. I felt that December's TLC: Tables, Ladders, and Chairs pay-per-view was simply too dangerous, that we were taking too large a risk on our superstars' well-beings, and as a person, as a former in-ring performer myself, I cannot in good conscience, condone this sort of reckless endangerment. So as of this moment, the TLC event is hereby replaced by another long-time favorite. Four words, ladies and gentlemen: King. Of. The. Ring.

*YYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY*

*smiles* Hold on-- that's not all, that's not all for tonight. I was watching the show backstage, and, well... the battle of the would-be NXT General Managers didn't end the way some of you wanted it to. Don't worry about it, folks. I've got a plan. I'll be over at NXT this week to settle this matter, as well as announce a return of the NXT concept, so--

Having heard enough of this speech, the World's Finest come out to a chorus of boos. The WWE World Tag Team Champions stay on the entrance ramp, mics already in hand. Chris Jericho and Sheamus, possibly already fuming over being given the night off, aren't happy.

Chris Jericho: We cannot allow this exercise in futility to continue, Mr. Mcmahon. With all due respect, sir-- no one, NO ONE cares about that damnable show known as NXT. It's a disgrace, and it's a SHAME that that show is allowed to continue, and just like your speech, sir--

*BBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOOO*

Just like your speech, it was time to put an end to it just before things got out of hand. I reiterate my point, Shane-- NOBODY cares about NXT.
Sheamus: Jes' loik no one cares abou' Air KaBoom, fella. Th' Werl's Foines' are gonna woipe th' floor with their--
Mcmahon: As a matter of fact, guys, as a matter of fact, I saw that Tag Team Turmoil match, and quite frankly, I was IMPRESSSED with that gutsy performance both Kofi Kingston and Jay Lethal pulled off.
Sheamus: Ye can' be serious, fella--
Mcmahon: Oh, but I am. Those two men showed some real... moxy. Yeah, moxy. They showed fire, more than any potential challenger out there, guys, they really did. And it is with great honor-- and pleasure-- to inform you that Air KaBoom--? Their match for the WWE World Tag Team Championships...? It's going to be at next month's Night of Champions!

*YYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY*

Jericho: Yeah? Well, NOBODY CARES!
Sheamus: Wa' this fella sed... fella!

*BBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOO*

Mcmahon: I'm sure these people care, guys. The WWE Universe cares!

*YYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY*

So why don't you two sulk and stew from your lockers instead of spoiling our fine, fine night?

*YYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY*

In case you didn't get the memo-- GET LOST!

Grinning from ear-to-ear, the WWE CEO waves goodbye to the Tag Team Champions while the crowd cheers in approval.
Rating: 99




Meanwhile, we get a sad and brooding William Regal, still fazed over his loss to Cody Rhodes earlier on.

William Regal: More and more I see that professional wrestling is a young man's game. I felt it four weeks previous, when I had the enchanted Money in the Bank briefcase in my fingertips, only to be denied. I felt it again tonight, as what would have been an impending win was snatched out from under me.

Regal looks down, shakes his head, and sighs.

--A young man's game, this is what this is. Nothing more than a young man's game. Maybe I was just fortunate to be in this situation. Maybe I shouldn't even have had these two pay-per-view matches in the first place. Maybe, maybe... maybe I shouldn't even be here anymore.

Regal stands up, looks at the camera, and smiles.

Thank you for teaching me that lesson, Cody Rhodes. Old dogs may have difficulty learning new tricks, but it's never too late to learn something new, so thank you.

A somber Regal starts to unlace his boots as we go back to ringside.
Rating: 85



Styles: A sad sight from William Regal, guys. The guy's been through it all, but he's never won the big one.
Striker: Master Regal's never looked as old and defeated as tonight, Joey. Truly a disconcerting sight to see.
Ross: We're going to have to move on, guys-- Friday Night Smackdown!'s top prize is on the line as we see what will be one of the hottest match-ups EVER!
Styles: John Cena defends against Brock Lesnar, the Champ versus the Natural Phenomenon. A match for the ages, and it's coming up next!
Ross: The fate of Friday Night Smackdown! hangs in the balance, the World Heavyweight Championship is on the line, the WWE Universe stands at attention as these two gigantic forces clash in battle!
Styles: And we'll be right here to call the action, J.R.! I can't wait!


This next match, is for the WORLD! HEAVYWEIGHT! CHAMPIONSHIP...!

Brock Lesnar def. John Cena (C) via DQ, John Cena retains the World Heavyweight Championship

Any signs of fear or worry from the Champ quickly turns into cockiness when John Cena gets in his challenger's face and does his You-Can't-See-Me taunt. Lesnar smirks, then snaps. The former MMA fighter catches Cena with a powerful takedown, trapping him and unleashing a torrent of hard rights and lefts, barely stopping for the referee's five-count. Lesnar practically dominates the early goings of the contest, using his raw strength to keep Cena off his feet. Cena was Cena, though, and the Champ fought his way back. With the entire CeNation behind him, the World Heavyweight Champion answers with right hands of his own, only to get taken down with a deadly clothesline. The Natural Phenomenon was relentless, mixing in a sprinkling of his amateur wrestling background alongside his equally-impressive strikes. Cena barely ducks under a particularly wild swing, responding by grabbing Lesnar by the waist and ramming him across the ring post, desperately unleashing punches to the midsection.

Striker: John Cena fighting like a warrior possessed, gentlemen! If he loses this match, there will be no tomorrow for the Champ.
Ross: Cena's trying to gut it out, Matt, but you can see that there's already an effect coming from Brock Lesnar's offense to start this contest.
Styles: So far it's been the kind of smash-mouth, slug-it-out style of action that we've come to expect from both men-- OH! They're taking the fight to the outside, guys! Cena and Lesnar still going at it at ringside!
Striker: Both men going hard, Joey, and all-out is exactly how they're going to have to take it if they want to bring the other down!
Styles: Not a pretty sight, though-- sheer mayhem, utter chaos from both men. Heck, I'm surprised the referee even has control of this thing!
Ross: The in-ring official has the authority, Joey, at least for the moment. Brock Lesnar would NOT want to be counted out, nor would he want John Cena to get counted out.

The war continued as neither man wanted to fall to the other. John Cena digs deep, but Brock Lesnar was again simply too strong, too powerful, for the World Heavyweight Champion. Still, it was Lesnar's arrogance that might have doomed him. The #1 Contender takes a moment to survey his handiwork, standing over a fallen Cena before playfully dragging him to his feet. Cena gets a sudden burst of strength, though-- Attitude Adjustment! The WWE Universe goes insane as Cena hits his finisher! The Champ wills himself and barely drapes an arm over his opponent, 1-- 2-- TH-- NO! Lesnar kicks out! Lesnar kicks out at two-and-a-half! Cena pounds the mat in disbelief, grabbing his head and gritting his teeth, readying himself for what was to come: an even more fired-up Brock Lesnar. The Natural Phenomenon was an absolute beast, nearly breaking Cena in half with a brutal spear before blasting him with headbutts, elbows, and punches.

Styles: OHMYGAWD-- I don't think Lesnar's going to stop, guys.
Ross: Brock Lesnar losing control, he doesn't want to just win this match, he wants to DESTROY John Cena! And BAH GAWD he just might do it!
Striker: Uh oh, I think Cena was busted open after that last shot, J.R.
Ross: Cena donning that proverbial crimson mask, Matt. It's not a pretty sight.

Lesnar doesn't stop, throwing Cena into the corner and just mercilessly beating down on him, a huge grin on his face. The challenger gets his opponent's blood on his knuckles, spits on it, then hits him again... and again and again. A seemingly satisfied Lesnar makes the cover, 1, 2... kick-out! Cena barely kicks out, drawing a huge cheer from the crowd. Lesnar wasn't happy, though, and the big man drags Cena to his feet again, before blasting him with a huge clothesline. And again. And agai-- Cena ducks under it! A sudden rush of adrenaline and Cena connects on a running shoulder tackle! And another! The Champ hits his trademark spin-out slam! With instant momentum on his side, Cena signals for the Five-Knuckle Shuffle... You Can't See M-- BAM! As the Champ bends down to taunt in Lesnar's face, the challenger lands a right hook, square on Cena's jaw! Cena goes down and Lesnar jumps up! The Natural Phenomenon was done playing around. He fires himself up and hoists Cena for the F-5. Cena somehow lands on his feet, though, and-- LOW BLOW! Cena with a kick to the groin, right in front of the referee! Cena collapses to the mat and rolls out of the ring, and the referee calls for the bell! Brock Lesnar wins!

Ross: What just happened?!
Striker: Cena-- He just got himself intentionally disqualified!
Styles: Smart move if you ask me, Matt. Cena had no choice there, he HAD to do SOMETHING if he wanted to keep his gold!
Ross: I never thought I'd see the day when John Cena would stoop to something this low, Joey. I'm just, I'm in a state of shock right now.
Striker: At least he gets to keep the World Heavyweight Championship, right, J.R.?

The superb bout had great wrestling and a sizzling crowd.
Rating: 87




Apparently satisfied with the win, a smiling Brock Lesnar demands a mic.

Brock Lesnar: *hff hff* John Cena. Heh. Cena, did you see what I did? Did you SEE what I just did, Cena?! This is it. This is it, Cena. It's over. You know it's over, I know it's over. Heck, even these PEOPLE know it's over.

Lesnar smiles and stops to catch his breath.

I got your number, Cena. You may have escaped me this time, but I got your number. You can't beat me. I just beat you. That World Heavyweight Championship--? It's coming with me. Nothing personal, Cena-- this is just business.

The ultra-confident Lesnar is all smiles despite loud boos from the WWE Universe.
Rating: 95



Ross: Looks like Lesnar's not finished with Cena just yet, folks.
Striker: The Natural Phenomenon has his sights set on the gold, J.R., and what Brock Lesnar wants, Brock Lesnar gets.
Styles: Speaking of focus, Matt-- Randy Orton claims that he's fully focused on ending Ted Dibiase's career here tonight!
Striker: Unlike their No Holds Barred match at this year's Fatal Fourway event, though, gentlemen, tonight's match will be have disqualifications, it will have count-outs.
Ross: I get what you're trying to say, Matt. It means Randy Orton's going to have to keep his cool if he wants to get the victory.
Styles: But does the normally hot-headed Viper even WANT the win? Will it be more important than taking his former tag team partner out, possibly for good?


This next match, is for ONE FALL!

Randy Orton def. Ted Dibiase

It was a cat-and-mouse game as Ted Dibiase forces Randy Orton to chase him to start things off. It turns out to be a ruse when Dibiase turns around and blasts the charging Viper with a sharp clothesline on the outside. The Million Dollar Son puts his advantage to good use, employing a slow and methodical approach, reminiscent of his opponent's own style. Dibiase does his best to keep the Viper off a vertical base, but it leads to a quick back-and-forth from both men, with Orton getting the upper hand after pretending to go for the RKO. Dibiase rolls out of the way but quickly realizes his mistake, charging right at Orton, who uses the momentum to flip him out of the ring. The crowd gets behind Orton, who rolls to the outside to keep the pressure on. The WWE's Apex Predator slams Dibiase to the floor, stomping on his face before being forced to drag him back into the ring.

Styles: It looks like Randy Orton's in full control of this one, guys!
Ross: Orton stalking his opponent-- will Ted Dibiase be the recipient of one of Randy Orton's vicious RKOs?
Striker: And... NO! The Million Dollar Son stays alive! YES! Let's go, Ted!
Styles: The Viper looks like he took a nasty spill there, but-- OH! RKO! OHMYGAWD! RKO from out of nowhere!
Ross: That did the trick, Joey, but Ted Dibiase with the wherewithal to roll OUT of the ring, and into safety!

A tired Viper tries to make the cover, but with his opponent nowhere to be found, Orton loses his cool. He finally goes to the outside to retrieve the fallen Ted Dibiase, but the wily third-generation superstar had recovered enough, pulling off a quick eye-poke, instantly turning the tables by shoving Orton over the barricade and into the fans. Dibiase wisely returns to the ring, screaming for the referee to make his count. The Viper barely beats it, and Dibiase goes right on the attack. Hard stomps and quick elbows turn into an illegal choke (with Dibiase grinding his forearm across Orton's face for good measure), and with his confidence growing every second, Ted Dibiase hits an impressive dropkick, then drags a groggy Orton to his feet. Dibiase goes for his signature rebound clothesline-- Orton ducks! Orton somehow ducks under it, and-- RKO! The Viper hits the RKO! Dibiase's down! Orton with the cover, 1! 2! 3! Orton gets the win!

Striker: With instant and sudden precision, the Viper strikes! An RKO takes down Ted Dibiase!
Ross: Randy Orton takes down someone who might be his most dangerous rival YET! Ted Dibiase FELLED by an RKO out of nowhere!
Striker: We are all aware of how quickly he can strike, J.R., and we just saw a glimpse of his outstanding timing right there.
Styles: Ted Dibiase didn't know what hit him, guys! Oh, man! But you have to believe this isn't exactly the way he wanted this match to end, did he?

The superb bout had great wrestling and a sizzling crowd.
Rating: 83




We quickly cut backstage, where the Prince of Parkour John Morrison is getting ready for his match.

John Morrison: T... L... C. Tables, Ladders, and Chairs.

Morrison smiles and shakes his head.

Tonight, I'll be in the fight of my LIFE-- CM Punk, Miz, neither one of you understand. I've been ridiculed, I've been made fun of... it all changes, right here, tonight. Summerslam, Summerslam is where John Morrison finally, FINALLY becomes WWE Champion. It's been a LONG time coming, folks, but it's finally going to happen. Punk and Miz, they don't understand, they don't know. *shakes head* I'd go through a thousand tables, I'd take a MILLION chair shots. I'd fall off a ladder, time and again, JUST for that WWE Championship. I'M leaving Summerslam with the WWE Championship, people, and there's nothing, NOTHING any of you can do about it.

Morrison starts to walk away, but turns around and tells the camera to zoom in tight on him.

I'm John Morrison. Your soon-to-be, NEW WWE Champion.

Another smirk, and we end the segment to go back to ringside.
Rating: 100



Ross: John Morrison's fired up tonight, folks, and so are we! Two more championship matches remain, and the Undisputed Divas Championship will be on the line, NEXT!
Striker: The Champion Gail Kim has been embroiled in a bitter rivalry with two former Champions in Beth Phoenix and Queen Kong, gentlemen. Tonight, she defends her gold against one of the most dominant divas of all-time.
Ross: The Most Dominant Ever, if you ask her, Matt. Queen Kong-- or Her Majesty, as she prefers to be called-- has been on a quest to regain her Undisputed Divas Championship since the minute she lost it!
Styles: The Glamazon has been on the same path, J.R., and those two divas are destined to meet inside the ring again. Not tonight, though-- tonight, Queen Kong takes on Gail Kim.
Striker: The Undisputed Divas Champion is ready for the fight of her life, Joey, but after overcoming FIVE other divas in that unbelievable gauntlet match last month-- I think it's safe to say that she can take care of Queen Kong, one-on-one, don't you think?
Ross: Will the athletic Gail Kim retain her gold, or will we see a brand new Undisputed Divas Championship here tonight?


This next match, is for the UNDISPUTED DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP...!

Gail Kim (C) def. Queen Kong to retain the Undisputed Divas Championship

Try as she might, the Champion just could not knock her challenger down. The majority of the match played out like a glorified squash-- with Gail peppering her mammoth opponent with a barrage of (ultimately ineffective) punches, and Queen Kong simply shrugging them off and knocking her down, only for the Undisputed Divas Champion to quickly get up, starting the process all over again. Her Majesty seemed to have fun, taking in a sick and twisted sense of enjoyment with beating Gail Kim up. Kong didn't seem to be taking the challenge too seriously, nonchalantly flinging her opponent around like a ragdoll, propping Gail up on the corners and flattening her with charging splashes. A near-lifeless Gail Kim is forced to grab onto her massive opponent just to get on a vertical base-- big mistake. Kong grabs her by the hair and throws her out of the ring with a Gorilla press slam.

Striker: And with the greatest of ease, gentlemen-- Queen Kong looks to be on her way to once again becoming the Undisputed Divas Champion.
Styles: It's hard to argue with you on that one, Matt. Kong's just too big, too powerful, and more importantly, too focused to lose this one.
Ross: And she looks like she's enjoying herself, to boot! Her Majesty is simply causing as much pain and punishment as she can!
Styles: Credit Gail Kim for surviving this long, too. She's too stubborn to give up, and she's going to keep fighting, no matter what!
Striker: Do you honestly believe that, Joey? Or is it just a case of Queen Kong toying with her victim?

Gail stays alive, even managing to get on a bit of a roll after (thankfully) dodging a charging Kong, who smacks against the steel steps. Gail finally takes her opponent off her feet with a quick dropkick, but once the action returned to the ring, it was more of the same-- Kong dominating with ridiculous ease, and Gail just barely getting a shoulder up, or putting her foot on the ropes, just enough to stay alive. With each successful escape act by the Champion, Her Majesty grows more and more frustrated, her temper flaring up after Gail fights out of the Powerbomb (and into a big boot). Kong takes her anger out at the official, grabbing him by the collar and shoving him into the ring post. Kong lets out a primal yell and sets the Champion up for her Powerbomb, but out comes Beth Phoenix! The Glamazon runs down and screams at her rival, and the self-proclaimed Most Dominant Ever takes her eyes off the prize, lunging at Beth (who hops down from the apron), only to turn around into Eat Defeat! Gail goes for the pin-- 1! 2! 3!

Ross: BAH GAWD Gail Kim did it! Gail Kim did it! The Undisputed Divas Champion keeps her gold!
Styles: The Glamazon just cost Queen Kong the Championship, J.R.! Her Majesty had this match won, but Beth Phoenix had to run in and spoil it!
Striker: Absolute madness in the ring right now, gentlemen. Queen Kong just freaking out--! She can't believe she lost!
Ross: Gail Kim escaped by a WHISKER, Matt-- and it was all thanks to Beth Phoenix.
Styles: Did the Glamazon do that on purpose, though, J.R.? Gail Kim isn't exactly her BFF--
Ross: I think Beth Phoenix just wanted her presence felt, Joey. Plain and simple.

The match had excellent in-ring action and great heat. The match suffered from a lack of psychology.
Rating: 82



Styles: Well, we're finally here, folks! The Main Event!
Ross: Ladies and gentlemen this next contest is NOT for the faint of heart. This next contest will be a slobber knocker in the truest sense, it's going to be rough, it's going to be physical, and quite frankly, I don't know if any one of these superstars will be able to walk on their own power when it's all said and done.
Striker: The TLC match is truly one of the most dangerous matches here in the WWE, J.R., add in the volatile mix of these three men, and you've got yourself a recipe for disaster!
Ross: The Miz, John Morrison, and CM Punk. One of these men will walk out of Summerslam with the top prize in the industry: the WWE Champoinship.
Styles: Hanging high above the ring, the superstars will have to climb the ladder and unhook it-- it may sound simple, people, but it's not.


The following match, is a TLC match for the WWE CHAMPIONSHIP!

CM Punk def. the Miz and John Morrison to win the WWE Championship

The three superstars share a tense moment, as all of them stare up at their target at the same time. Punk strikes first, taking Miz down before focusing on the Prince of Parkour, who gamely slugs it out with the Straight Edge superstar. The Miz recovers and pushes them out of the ring, then goes out and grabs a ladder for himself. The WWE Champion wanted to end this one early, but Punk and Morrison had other plans. His two challengers team up to take the Cleveland Screamer down, with Punk hammering away with his fists, followed by Morrison blasting his former tag team partner with chair shots. The action is fast and furious with Punk and Morrison eventually turning on each other, but not before Miz gets put through a table (courtesy of a double flapjack). The two contenders both scramble up the ladder, exchanging blows at the very top. Miz tries to interfere by propping another ladder across the ropes and the middle rungs, leading to a highlight-reel moment, with Morrison connecting on a risky Easy Ride from that makeshift platform to the canvas.

Styles: OHMYGAWD! This is crazy! Both men must be broken in HALF, J.R.!
Ross: John Morrison takes CM Punk AND himself out of the equation! This might be the Miz's chance! Will the Miz retain his WWE Championship?!
Striker: There he goes, J.R.! Go, Miz, go!
Ross: Wait! John Morrison-- Morrison, Morrison just springing to his feet! Morrison, like a cat--! Morrison climbing that ladder!
Styles: Miz and Morrison, rights and lefts! Neither man wants to give in, but--
Striker: Punk! CM Punk shoving the ladder down! Oh, man! That's GOT to hurt!

A hobbling Punk uses this time to set up a number of tables outside the ring, along with a few inside the squared circle, as well as bringing in a number of weapons-- all legal in this dangerous contest. The Second City Saint tries to put his opponents through the tables, but ironically goes through one, himself, crashing and burning on an attempted elbow from the ladder. It was chaos and carnage as Miz and Morrison rekindle their long-simmering feud with one another, with Miz countering Starship Pain by grabbing a chair in the nick of time, and Morrison blocking what would have been a Skull-Crushing Finale onto a chair. Punk props a ladder in the corner, whips Miz against it-- and Punk connects with his running high knee! The crowd roars as Punk bulldogs the ladder down on top of the Awesome One-- Flying Chuck! Morrison blasts Punk with the Flying Chuck from out of nowhere!

Ross: John Morrison! BAH GAWD this could be John Morrison's moment! Climb that ladder, kid! Climb that ladder and make your dreams come true!
Striker: He's doing it, J.R., he's doing it! John Morrison is going to become the new WWE Champion!
Styles: He's taking too much time, Matt! He's-- aw, it's too late.
Ross: It's back to square one, Joey! A free-for-all erupting between all three superstars!

Punk grabs the steel steps and sets it up on the top turnbuckle, grabbing the WWE Champion and hitting a modified GTS, with Miz's face smacking square on the steel. The Guru of Greatness attacks from behind, sending Punk tumbling through the second rope, to the outside. Morrison sets him up on a table and climbs up on the apron-- one last look over his back, and Starship Pai-- NO! Punk rolls out of the way and Morrison crashes through the table, down for the count! Punk rushes back in and sets up the ladder, gingerly climbing to the top-- Miz! The WWE Champion somehow digs deep inside and meets his challenger there! The two men exchange punches, with Punk getting the upper hand, using headbutts and elbow strikes to try and keep the WWE Champion off-guard. Miz tries to push Punk off, but a desperate grab allows him to hang onto the gold! Punk kicks the ladder to the side and Miz falls right onto a recovering Morrison, giving the Straight Edge superstar enough time to unhook the WWE Championship-- Punk wins!

Styles: CM Punk! CM Punk! CM Punk! CM Punk is the WWE Champion!
Ross: Punk showing the WWE Universe that hard work sure does pay off, winning the WWE Championship for the first time in his career! Listen to that ovation! The Georgia Dome showering Punk with all the love in the world!
Styles: CM Punk is the WWE Champion, and there's not a darn thing anyone can do about it! YEAH!
Striker: Look at how happy Punk is, gentlemen-- this truly is a dream come true for him, he's clutching that WWE Championship tight and he's never letting go!
Ross: A new era begins over on Monday Night RAW, folks-- a new Champion to cap off the Biggest Party of the Summer!
Striker: Tomorrow night will be WILD, J.R.! Just listen to the crowd here tonight! Amazing!
Styles: What a great night, guys! C! M! Punk! C! M! Punk! C! M! Punk!

The superb bout had great wrestling and a sizzling crowd.
Rating: 93 (MOTN)



Post Show:

The World's Finest (C) def. the No Remorse Corps in a non-title match
The bout featured great action and a good crowd.
Rating: 75



Overall Show Rating: 92
This show can be considered a success, it should have increased our popularity.

[michgcs]

SUMMERSLAM RESULTS
BHK1978= 4/9
Jingo= 2/9
Harmor= 4/9
pauls07= 3/9
Destiny= 6/9
Rare Kuma= 4/9
Kijar= 1/9


Blatantly ripping off Rathen4's terribly underrated Australian Pro Wrestling, I somehow managed to dissect his nifty-looking table:

	Extreme Rules	Over the Limit	Fatal Fourway	Money in the Bank	Summer slam	Night of Champions	Bragging Rights	Survivor Series	King of the Ring	Royal Rumble	Elimination Chamber	Wrestlemania 29	Total
BHK1978	7	5	5	5	4								4
Jingo	7	3	6	5	2								2
Harmor	6	6	6	5	4								4
pauls07	7	7	7	5	3								3
Destiny			3	4	6								6
Rare Kuma					4								4
Kijar	6	2			1								1
Nobby_McDonald	4	4	6

• Okay, now that the prediction contest's over (pauls07's prize was he got to decide the winner of the Tag Team Turmoil match), I think it's time to start a new one. I was a bit hesitant, though, but after you guys predicted, well... I'd like to say a heartfelt THANK YOU! to all those who took the time to predict. Now all I have to do is to think of a prize
  
• I know that Cena retaining his title was unlike him, but I wanted to play it off as Brock being an unstoppable monster, leaving the Champ with no choice but to go for the DQ loss.
  
• Harmor, I finally got the chance to look over your save games, buddy-- I can definitely see why you're looking to get rid of ECW. 3 A-shows is just too much to book I can't imagine how it'd be to make a diary out of your WWE game I did like Summerslam, though... as for your TNA game, well, it was a bit messier as your in-game save is quite a ways away from what you've posted in your diary. I did enjoy how you've subtly changed the names of a few familiar faces, though
  
• A hearty welcome to Rare Kuma and thunderous welcome back to Kijar! I hope other potential new voters aren't put off by the walls of texts in the previous pages (this IS the longest-running weekly episodic cluster of shows in TV history, after all...) and thank you for being a part of this game
  
• What kind of month would this be without a shameless plug? BHK1978, Harmor, Destiny: SWF, TNA, and WWE. All really underrated, all really entertaining. Check 'em out!

[Harmor]

A very fine show that'll set up some nice things down the line (and everybody's gotta believe me cause I have the savegame! ). Cena getting omgwtfpwned is something that surely doesn't happen a whole lot but nice for a change, but if Lesnar doesn't win the belt down the line he'll be the world's biggest pushover.

And what can I say ... GO PUNK! ^^

I just didn't agree with Air Kaboom winning is all (Sinister Truth ftw) but a prize is a prize and that's that - gonna be interesting to convince Sheamus and Jericho to lay down for one of those teams (you kept Sinister Truth strong in that match, ja? ^^).

All in all, looking forward to Night of Champions already cause it'll be epic. Keep up the good work

[BHK1978]

Glad to see Punk win and Gail retain. When I was the only one who picked Gail to win you had me worried that maybe I was going to be wrong.

I liked how you brought Beth into the mix as well.

I would have rather had Sinister Truth pick up the victory but it is what it is.

[michgcs]

Originally Posted by Harmor

A very fine show that'll set up some nice things down the line (and everybody's gotta believe me cause I have the savegame! ). Cena getting omgwtfpwned is something that surely doesn't happen a whole lot but nice for a change, but if Lesnar doesn't win the belt down the line he'll be the world's biggest pushover.

And what can I say ... GO PUNK! ^^

I just didn't agree with Air Kaboom winning is all (Sinister Truth ftw) but a prize is a prize and that's that - gonna be interesting to convince Sheamus and Jericho to lay down for one of those teams (you kept Sinister Truth strong in that match, ja? ^^).

All in all, looking forward to Night of Champions already cause it'll be epic. Keep up the good work

Originally Posted by BHK1978

Glad to see Punk win and Gail retain. When I was the only one who picked Gail to win you had me worried that maybe I was going to be wrong.

I liked how you brought Beth into the mix as well.

I would have rather had Sinister Truth pick up the victory but it is what it is.

Thanks for the encouragement, guys-- post #1000 (by Harmor) and reply #1000 (by BHK)-- I wouldn't make it this far without your (and everyone else's) support As for Sinister Truth... certainly a LOT of support for 'em, which is always nice to see. Maybe I can call an audible and give them the gold sooner than expected

I actually want to take the title off of Gail, but with two titles already changing hands at Summerslam, a third might've been overkill

So in short, guys, thanks for supporting me through the first thousand replies, and here's to a thousand more

Oh, and happy Fourth of July to all the Americans out there, I guess

---

---

Pre-Show:

The Miz def. Jay Lethal
The bout featured great action and a good crowd. There were times when there was a definite lack of psychology on display.
Rating: 84

Monday Night RAW

Jim Ross: Ladies and gentlemen we're here inside the Allstate Arena, where the raucous WWE Universe is ready for the dawning of a brand-new era in sports entertainment!
Jerry Lawler: The hometown fans are excited, they're fired-up, J.R.! Monday Night RAW is going to be great! We've got a new WWE Champion, people, and he's going to change the world!
Michael Cole: Oh, brother. Not this again. For the last time, CM Punk got LUCKY! The Miz should still be Champion, not Punk!
Lawler: Personal feelings aside, it's great to see Michael Cole this unhappy! A new day has truly dawned here on Monday Night RAW!
Cole: Put a sock in it, Jerry-- Punk won't be WWE Champion for long.
Ross: Listen to the fans just cahnting for their hometown hero!
Lawler: CM Punk is more than rock star here in Chicago, J.R., he's a legend!

As if on cue, the new WWE Champion emerges from the curtain, a huge grin on his face as the WWE Universe explodes with cheers. Punk makes his way to the ring amid chants of "C! M! Punk! C! M! Punk!," grabbing a mic along the way.

CM Punk: This is just... just, WOW, what an ovation--

*C! M! Punk! C! M! Punk!*

It's great to be home, and--

*C! M! Punk! C! M! Punk!*

--and y'know what, I admit it. It's GREAT to be WWE Champion in front of your friends and family!

Another roar from the crowd as Punk unhooks the gold and raises it high above his head.

And here's the thing, here's the thing. I'm not ashamed to say that I cried like a little girl backstage, just for a little bit. Just for a while, because dammit, dreams DO come true, and I, CM Punk, and living proof of that.

*C! M! Punk! C! M! Punk!*

Honestly, though-- there's not a lot of room for egos backstage, especially with some of the bigger ones we've already got running around. That's right, Miz, I'm talking about you-- but I think that I've earned the right to say this next bit: I am, honestly, the best wrestler on the RAW roster, the best wrestler in the entire WWE... heck, I'm the Best in the World!

*YYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYY*

I've been the Best in the World for quite some time now, but after last night--? This-- *pats the WWE gold on his shoulder* This just solidifies it. Now onto more important matters-- Joe! Joe, I know you're watching, man. Get your butt out here!

It doesn't take long for Samoa Joe to come out. Although the big man gets a good ovation, it's nothing compared to the one CM Punk received. Joe goes all the way down to the ring, embracing his friend and grabbing a mic for himself.

Samoa Joe: *grins* Congrats, Champ. I always knew you had it in you, buddy-- whether it was in the bingo halls and convention centers, or the sold-out arenas like this one here in Chicago, CM Punk brought it. CM Punk brings it.

*YYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYY*

The way these people are chanting your name right now--? You deserve it.

*C! M! Punk! C! M! Punk!*

You made it to the top, my friend. You--
CM Punk: Look, Joe. I can sing my praises whenever I want, I didn't ask you down here to do that for me.
Joe: But--
CM Punk: No, here's the thing, man. All my life, it's been you and me, me and you. We made it to Ring of Honor, we even had a stint in that promotion in the south-- but here we are, Joe. The WWE. The BIG time. Here we are, where the lights are at its brightest, where the fans are at their loudest... and we've scratched and clawed our way to the top.
Joe: I appreciate it, Punk, but umm-- I haven't made it to the top yet.
CM Punk: That's all gonna change, bud! I just made you my #1 Contender! Our match is TONIGHT!

Samoa Joe and the rest of the WWE Universe barely have time to process this information when the newly-crowned United States Champion joins the conversation. Ziggler comes out alone, walking down the ramp and stopping short of getting in the ring.

Dolph Ziggler: Samoa Joe--? Please. Samoa Joe is one of those guys you see on TV, ones who you never thought could exist in real life. Samoa Joe, he's-- no, I'm going to do it to your face.

Ziggler gets up on the apron and looks right in Joe's eyes.

Joe, you're not a has-been or a never-was, you piece of [expletive]. You know what you are--? You're a NEVER-WILL-BE! You don't have the look, you don't have the skill, you don't have the body-- AND you don't have the potential! I get the girls, I get the gold, and more importantly, fat man, I get the wins! You want a #1 Contender, Punk? Well here I am!

Before Punk or Joe could answer, familiar theme music plays and out comes the former WWE Champion, the Miz. The Cleveland Screamer isn't happy, and it shows. With Alex Riley following close behind him, Miz stays on the entrance ramp, mic already in hand.

The Miz: Really--? Really? Really.
CM Punk: Wait, wait, hold on-- I've been wanting to do this for some time now... Really.

*REALLY!*

You better believe it, Miz-- you, too, Ziggles-- I am, the WWE Champion.

Punk again lifts the gold up in the air, and Miz, Ziggler, and even Samoa Joe immediately turn their attention to the top prize in the industry.

The Miz: Whatever, Punk. You won because of a fluke. If you take me on again, one-on-one, you don't stand a chance.
CM Punk: Oh really.
The Miz: Yes, really.
Ziggler: GOD will you two [expletives] PLEASE STOP!?

The screamming stops for a while, but this time, all eyes are on the United States Champion.

Look, if anyone--
Joe: Let me cut you off right there, Ziggler. No one, NO ONE, invited you to our little thing. Same goes for you, Miz, so why don't you just--
The Miz: Why don't YOU just turn around and walk head back to the showers, Joe? Oh, oh, I heard there's a sandwich with your name on it at the buffet table, champ. How about you go get it, huh?
Ziggler: Sandwich? How about a salad-- try going on a diet sometime, "big" man. I see you've eaten your way through tons of--
CM Punk: Why can't you just SHUT UP?! You won your gold same as me, Ziggler, last night at Summerslam.
Ziggler: Yeah, so?
CM Punk: SO how about you go on and be satisfied with what you've already got-- that is, unless you want an [expletive]-kicking to go with that nifty United States Championship of yours.

*YYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY*

Ziggler: Oh, big talk from a big man, huh? Listen up, Punk. You are what you say you are: a punk. No one respects you, no one likes you. The only friends you have tolerate you because your presence immediately makes them seem better by comparison--
CM Punk: *chuckles* Really.
Ziggler: Yes, really.
CM Punk: And what does that say about your bromance with that goofball, Zack Ryder?
Ziggler: You leave the kid out of this, Punk! This is between YOU, and ME. This--
Miz: I AM the RIGHTFUL WWE Champion! I should be treated with RESPECT!
Joe: There you go again, Miz, talking about respect. How many times should we say this--? Respect is earned, kid.
Miz: "Kid? Kid?!" I WON at the Grandest Stage of Them All, Joe, I am a FUTURE Hall of Famer--
Punk: How about we put that to the test? How about I go over there, lock in the Anaconda Vise so hard, I FORCE you to retire. Then let's see if you make it to the Hall of Fame.
Miz: Very funny, Punk. I--

The four-superstar argument is brought to a screeching halt after glass shatters and RAW General Manager announces his presence, making his way to the ring-- making sure to flip Miz (and Alex Riley) and Dolph Ziggler off along the way.

Steve Austin: *waits for the "Austin!" chants to die down* Now I was havin' myself a nice ol' can of beer or two--

*WHAT!*

I said the ol' Rattlesnake was in his office--

*WHAT!*

Doin' what he does best--

*WHAT!*

Drinkin' beer and drinkin' more beer--

*WHAT!*

Cans and cans of beer--

*WHAT!*

And MORE cans of beer--

*WHAT!*

Miz: STOP IT! Stop it, stop it, stop it! You people are annoying, and this, this whole thing is STUPID! I was the WWE Champion before CM Punk stole my gold from me, so I want, no, no-- I DESERVE a rematch!

*WHAT!*

Don't you start with me--

*WHAT!*

CM Punk: I think WHAT these people are saying, Miz--

*WHAT!*

Is that you're a complete and UTTER [expletive]!

*YYYYAAAAAAAYYYYY*

And I'm terribly sorry, Miz-- buddy-- you can get a rematch, sure, but you're not getting one tonight!

*YYYYAAAAAAAYYYYY*

Tonight, I'm facing--
Austin: Let me stop you right there, son. I don't wanna make my WWE Champion a liar, now do I?
Punk: What, what are you saying, Steve--?
Austin: I'm sayin', Champ, that while I do like the sound of CM Punk versus Samoa Joe-- it just ain't gonna happen tonight, son. ENH! ENH!
Punk: What?!
Miz: YES!
Punk: I'm the WWE Champion, Steve, and--
Austin: You're MY WWE Champion, Punk, on MY show. I appreciate you thinkin' outside the box, but Joe wasn't even on the card last night!
Joe: Well--
Punk: That's why I'm looking to rectify that oversight, Steve!
Austin: Look, there's time for a Punk versus Joe match for the gold a few weeks down the line, but tonight, tonight you take on the new United States Champion.
Punk: Oh, god--
Ziggler: HA!
Austin: In a non-title match.
Ziggler: Oh.
Austin: With Night of Champions bein' our next pay-per-view, it seems fittin' to kick things off with a Champion against Champion match, and you sumb*tches are the right guys for that!
Punk: *rolls eyes* Fine--
Austin: Oh, and one more thing, Punk. In four weeks, at Night of Champions--? You'll be defending your gold in a Championship Scramble match!

*YYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYY*

Miz: But--
Austin: With the first qualifyin' match TONIGHT, pittin' Alberto Del Rio against the Samoan Destruction Machine, Samoa Joe!

*YYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYY*

You can't always get what you want, son. You may have gotten it last night, but you sure as hell ain't gettin it tonight-- and THAT'S the bottomline--! 'Cause Stone Cold SAYS SO!

The superstars stand in shock as Austin calmly walks back to his office, and we go to our first commercial break of the evening.
Rating: 91



Ross: An absolutely EXPLOSIVE start to the show, ladies and gentlemen! Steve Austin does it again!
Cole: Austin should be careful he doesn't piss CM Punk off like he did with the Miz when he was WWE Champion. Punk's entitled to face any challenger he wants, after all--
Lawler: Yes, but the GM gets to decide when and where, Cole! Austin's well within his rights to make a Champion versus Champion match tonight, and it's going to be great!
Cole: Two new Champions already headlining Monday Night RAW, folks, and another superstar with gold around his waist scheduled to compete in our opening bout.
Ross: The Unified ECW Champion and his sinister partner were unable to become the #1 Contenders to the WWE World Tag Team Championships last night at Summerslam, Michael, but R-Truth looks to stay strong with a one-on-one match against Tyson Kidd here tonight.
Lawler: Kidd was drafted to RAW in our annual draft right after Wrestlemania, J.R., but so far, the former Tag Team Champion hasn't done anything of note here on Monday nights. That can change here tonight!

Tyson Kidd def. R-Truth (C) in a non-title match

With Drew Mcintyre coming down to ringside to provide moral support, the crazy R-Truth comes out on fire, taking the fight straight to Tyson Kidd and controlling the match with relative ease. The Last Student of the Dungeon fights back, though, using stiff kicks and an assortment of holds and locks to keep his opponent grounded on the mat, slowing the pace down. Kidd just as suddenly speeds things back up, using his athleticism to stymy the Unified ECW Champion, taking him down with quick moves, punctuated by a springboard hurracanrana that gets the crowd going. Ultimately, it was a mis-timed attempt at a distraction by Mcintyre that spells the end-- Kidd fights out of a predicament and rolls behind Truth, shoving his opponent right into his partner and rolling him up to get the upset win.

Ross: Tyson Kidd! Tyson Kidd with the win! Kidd gets the three-count!
Lawler: A huge surprise coming from Tyson Kidd, J.R. That look on his face says that he wasn't expecting that AT ALL!
Cole: Well, the look on R-Truth's face says it all, too-- neither one of Sinister Truth was expecting a loss to come here on RAW, Jerry!
Ross: Truth was lucky this wasn't for his Unified ECW Championship, Michael, otherwise we would be seeing a brand new Champion here on RAW!

The bout featured great action and great heat.
Rating: 86




We cut to a hallway backstage, where the World's Strongest Man Mark Henry is ready to make a statement.

Mark Henry: The Great Khali--? He won't be so great after he meets the World's Strongest Man in the ring. That's right, I said it. He may be tall like a tree, but Mark Henry, he chops DOWN them trees. Mark Henry, he rips trees APART with his bare hands. And tonight--? Tonight, the Great Khali, he ain't gonna be nothin' but another tree, standin' in the way of the World's Strongest Man. Tonight, the Great Khali joins the Hall'o Pain.

Rating: 89




From that promo we go over to the locker room of the former WWE Champion, where the Miz and his protege were discussing what went on earlier in the show.

The Miz: Can you believe it? Can you believe that--? That was typical Austin, the Miz gets the short end of the stick AGAIN!

Riley nods in agreement.

Despite single-handedly carrying this horrible, horrible show for months now, I'm STILL treated like garbage! I deserve respect, I earned respect-- and dammit, that's exactly what I'm going to get.

Alex Riley nods again.

Now get my gear, let's get out of this dump. I've just had enough of this mistreatment.

Riley gets caught by surprise, not immediately reacting to his mentor's words.

NOW, Alex!

Riley snaps to attention and grabs the Miz's bags, and the two men leave the room as we head back to ringside.
Rating: 97



Lawler: What is the Miz talking about, J.R.? The Miz isn't getting any respect because he doesn't GIVE any! Look at the way he treats poor Alex Riley!
Ross: Young Alex Riley showing some bad decision-making on his part, King. Sticking with the Miz is never a good thing.
Cole: What?! Did you just say that learning whatever he can from a FORMER WWE Champion was a bad decision?! You two are JOKES!
Lawler: Whatever, Cole. Listen, the joke may be on Mark Henry if he can't back his talk up with action-- Henry finally takes on the Great Khali, and it's next!
Cole: Now THAT'S an example of bad decision-making if I ever saw one!

Mark Henry vs. the Great Khali ends in chaos

This match wasn't really an in-ring virtuoso performance as it was a full-on brawl. The two superstars weren't exactly known for their agility and athleticism, but for their size and power, but the WWE Universe was still abuzz with every shot, every blow, every chop. The referee did just about everything to keep control of the contest, but his warnings fell on deaf ears. The Great Khali mindlessly hammers away with his overhead chops and strikes, but the World's Strongest Man pushes back-- literally. Mark Henry shoves his gigantic opponent, who stumbles back and bumps the referee right out of the ring. Without an official to get in between the two heavyweights, an already-violent match grew even more out of hand, with both men brawling right out of the arena.

Ross: BAH GAWD This match has erupted into a Pier Six brawl! These two monsters are just, just uncontrollable!
Lawler: Absolute carnage from Henry and Khali, J.R.! This sure lived up to the hype-- that is, until they start beating up on the innocent bystanders.
Cole: That's not the case so far, Jerry, but I hope the officials will start to sort this whole thing out, and soon!
Ross: We'll take a quick break as they do just that, Michael. We'll be back with more RAW, right after this!

The bout had great heat and great wrestling action. The match suffered because of the lack of selling on display.
Rating: 72




We return to the show to see the WWE Champion and his friend in Punk's locker room.

CM Punk: Hey, Joe... I'm sorry things didn't work out tonight, man--
Samoa Joe: Don't worry about it, Punk, and don't worry about me. You know me, man. I land on my feet, and I get stronger. I'm going to beat Del Rio tonight, and I'm going to join that Championship Scramble match at Night of Champions--

Joe grins as he stares at his friend's gold, draped over his shoulder. CM Punk looks at Joe and smiles right back.

CM Punk: I know you will, bud. I know you will.
Joe: You didn't let me finish, Punk. After I join that Scramble match--? I'm going to walk out as the NEW WWE Champion.
CM Punk: Don't get ahead of yourself, Joe. One step at a time.

Punk pats Joe on the shoulder and starts to walk away.

See you around, bud.

Samoa Joe is left, smiling and shaking his head.
Rating: 100




And speaking of El Patron, we head back to ringside to see the Mexican Aristocrat in the center of the ring, mic in hand.

Alberto Del Rio: Dolp Zeeglar-- Zeeglar, yoo en yor stoopid Zack Rayder, yoo can celebrate all yoo want, gringos-- Alberto, Alberto has beegar things on his maynd. Yoo see, Zeeglar, de Unayted Stets Champyonshep means NOTHENG to me now. Now, my sayts are set on a beegar prize, one dat will meyk sure dat El Patron will RULE de Dubyoo-Dubyoo-Eeh. Alberto Del Rio will win dis match, en Alberto will go to Noche de los Campeones, en Alberto will become de NEW Dubyoo-Dubyoo-Eeh Champyon.

A smile and a wink from the Mexican Aristocrat.

But yoo-- yoo already know dat.

Rating: 87



Cole: Well Alberto making things official: he's headed to Night of Champions, guys! He's going to be part of the Championship Scramble match for Punk's WWE Championship!
Ross: Not if Samoa Joe has anything to say about it, Michael. Matches are won and lost in the ring, not by promos and interviews.
Lawler: Alberto spouts a lot of hot air, J.R., I wish he'd just float away!
Cole: The Mexican Aristocrat, the former United States Champion meets Samoa Joe in this first qualifying match, three more matches scheduled in the coming weeks leading up to Night of Champions, ladies and gentlemen--
Lawler: And all kidding aside, Cole, Del Rio's not too shabby inside the ring. He might very well pull it off!

Alberto Del Rio def. Samoa Joe

The two superstars battle it out to a virtual standstill for most of the contest, engaging in a game of anything-you-can-do-I-can-do-better with one another. Samoa Joe briefly overpowered his opponent with his strong-style, eliciting chants of "Joe is gonna kill you!" from the WWE Universe. That advantage doesn't last very long, as the former United States Champion had a plan: Alberto Del Rio picks his spot and counters at the most opportune time, blasting Joe with a knee to the gut followed by a swinging neckbreaker to turn things around. El Patron smacks Joe in the head before targeting his arm, softening it up for the Cross Arm Breaker. Del Rio goes for his finishing maneuver a number of times, but Joe blocks it at every turn, regaining control after an amazing feat of strength, countering the Cross Arm Breaker into a Samoan drop. Joe doesn't go for the cover, instead confidently (and nonchalantly) climbing up the top rope for a possible splash. He takes too much time, however, and Alberto Del Rio recovers, using his amazing agility to connect with a beautiful but brutal top rope enzuigiri that stuns the sold-out crowd. El Patron makes the cover, and three seconds later, gets the win.

Cole: YES! I knew it! I told you guys, when El Patron sets his mind on something, he DELIVERS!
Lawler: You have to wonder what Samoa Joe was doing on the top rope, J.R. That was very uncharacteristic of the big man--
Ross: Joe might have spent too much time showboating, King, instead of finishing things off.
Cole: Nonetheless, Alberto Del Rio joins CM Punk in the Championship Scramble match at Night of Champions! Alberto Del Rio! A future WWE Champion, a future Hall of Famer!
Ross: He proved that he's got the skills in the ring, Michael, but will he win it all in four weeks?

The match had excellent in-ring action and great heat.
Rating: 83




From a celebrating Alberto Del Rio, we head on over to the locker room area, where a smiling and jubilant Cody Rhodes has managed to find a live mic.

Cody Rhodes: Lasht night at Shummerthlam, jushtish prevailed. William Regal hash been vanquished. I, Cody Rhodesh, have PROVEN, without a shadow of a doubt, that William Regal wash indeed the man who ATTACKED Bryan Danielthon at the Money in the Bank pay-per-view. In fact, it wash Bryan himshelf who confirmed it, coming out deshpite not being a hundred pershent, coming out to dishtract Regal and hand me the victory.

Rhodes stops to laugh, but quickly composes himself.

Bryan, I know you're watching: you're welcome. You have been avenged, my friend. You're welcome. And ash for you, William Regal--? Regal, you shly dog. I have to admit, Regal, I would've done maybe the shame thing if I were in your shoesh. To be honesht, it wash a pretty good plan, you jusht couldn't have imagined you would get CAUGHT. *laughs* You shwing big, you mish big, William. Your only problem wash mething around with me.

Rhodes grins and puts his face mask back on (which was weird, because he didn't have a scheduled match for tonight).
Rating: 96




The next scene wasn't a very pretty one: like Danielson's backstage ambush at Money in the Bank, a superstar that seems to be John Morrison is thrown around before finally getting knocked unconscious, with no witnesses in sight except for a cameraman who gets a split-second glimpse while being pushed aside. We see red wrestling boots and not much else. The cameraman retrieves his equipment and recovers in time to see RAW General Manager Steve Austin walk by and see Morrison on the ground.

Steve Austin: What the hell-- Someone get some help out here! Get me a medic, QUICK!

Austin bends down over Morrison.

Morrison, can you hear me? John! John!

Morrison lies motionless as several medical personnel arrive, and we go to another commercial break of the evening soon after.
Rating: 86



Cole: Welcome back to Monday Night RAW, and moments ago, a sight no one wants to see: John Morrison laid out by an unknown assailant, reminiscent of the attack on Bryan Danielson at the Money in the Bank event.
Ross: What a way to usher in our Main Event, Michael. Truly, truly a sad development, but we'll be sure to keep you posted on any news regarding John's condition. In the meantime, the action doesn't stop here on RAW, folks!
Lawler: A Champion versus Champion match, J.R. Both CM Punk and Dolph Ziggler are new Champions, and they're going one-on-one here tonight!
Cole: Not to mention the next pay-per-view event is the aptly-named Night of Champions, Jerry, where every championship in the WWE will be on the line!
Lawler: I gotta be honest, guys, I think Austin nailed it when he made this match. I mean, I was looking forward to Joe against Punk, but this match-- oh, man!
Ross: No question, King, the Rattlesnake always has the best interest of Monday Night RAW and the WWE Universe on hand.

CM Punk (C) def. Dolph Ziggler (C) in a non-title match

It was a pure clinic from a wrestling standpoint, both Champions showcasing their skills in a half-hour instant classic. The new WWE Champion was on fire, getting the crowd solidly behind him as he took the fight right to Dolph Ziggler, knocking the United States Champion right on his behind a number of times. His confidence growing every minute, the Second City Saint controls the contest until Ziggler sidesteps Punk's signature corner high knee, using Punk's own momentum against him to fling the WWE Champion over the top rope, to the outside. The United States Champion shows off for the crowd a little bit, impressively doing some push-ups before rolling to the outside to put pressure on his opponent. Ziggler rams Punk into the steel steps and sends him over the barricade, hoping to get a count-out win. No such luck for the United States Champion: CM Punk gets a little extra help from the fans, who push him back over the barricade, giving Punk enough time to climb back into the ring. Every second was part of the story-- Ziggler connecting with his Namedropper only for Punk to (barely) kick out; Punk blasting Zigler with a stiff roundhouse kick for a near-fall; the two superstars colliding with a double crossbody. Punk goes for his roundhouse kick again-- Ziggler ducks under it! Ziggler with the ZigZag-- NO! Punk blocks it by hanging onto the ropes! Ziggler goes for his Sleeper Hold-- Punk with a stunning display of power! CM Punk digs deep and lifts the United States Champion up for the GTS! Punk connects! The WWE Champion goes for the cover-- 1! 2! 3! Punk wins!

Cole: Punk wins! Punk wins! Punk wins!
Ross: The WWE Champion starting his reign in impressive fashion, Michael-- a great win here tonight!
Lawler: Dolph Ziggler was no slouch, himself, J.R. The United States Champion showed that he could go toe-to-toe with Punk and live to tell the tale.
Cole: Of course, both superstars will be defending their gold at Night of Champions, guys. What a match! What a night! Punk standing tall, with his WWE Championship high over his head!
Ross: We hope you enjoyed the show, folks, and we'll see you next week, right here on Monday Night RAW!

The superb bout had great wrestling and a sizzling crowd.
Rating: 99 (MOTN)



Post Show:

Bryan Danielson and John Morrison def. the Ultimate Broskis
The bout featured great action and a good crowd.
Rating: 60



Overall Show Rating: 94
There are no specific comments to be made about this show.

[Kijar]

I may be the best at predicting, haha, but it's great to come back and see this thing still up and running.(:

[michgcs]

Originally Posted by Kijar

I may be the best at predicting, haha, but it's great to come back and see this thing still up and running.(:

Hey, as long as there's still a story to tell, I'll be here... Glad to have you back, buddy

---

---

WWE Superstars Taping Results

-The WWE came to Rosemont, Illinois for this week's Superstars tapings.

-Dark match was Samoa Joe vs Alex Riley. The two men got decent time, with Joe winning via Muscle Buster in 6:02.

-The show opens with William Regal one-on-one against Kaval. The bout featured great action and great heat, and Regal picks up the pinfall with the Knee Trembler. The match was a bit of a letdown.

-A backstage segment plays with Sinister Truth getting in a bit of a spat regarding R-Truth's loss this week on RAW. Mcintyre maintains that he was only trying to help, but Truth asks his partner if he was part of the C-O-N-spiracy.

- Davey Richards def. MVP and Carlito in a triple threat match. The match had great back-and-forth action, with Richards stealing the win after MVP and Carlito bump heads, rolling up the Minoriteam member for the three-count.

-We get a pre-taped video of Zack Ryder and Dolph Ziggler bickering about Ziggler's United States Championship. The Long Island Iced Z wants a shot at the gold (after CM Punk offered to do the same for his pal, Samoa Joe) but Ziggler isn't as kind. Still stinging from his loss this Monday, the Picture of Perfection storms off at the mention of Punk's name.

-The Cougar and the Lone Wolf come to the ring to a lot of boos. Despite not having a match here tonight, Vickie and Nigel want to inform the WWE Universe that the Intercontinental Champion is still better than Wade Barrett (despite losing to him at Summerslam) and that he is still infinitely better than Jack Swagger (who he faces this week on Smackdown!). Vickie gets a lot of heat just from the sound of her voice, so a pretty successful segment, here.

-The Main Event was Air KaBoom vs the Mercernaries. The #1 Contenders to the WWE World Tag Team Championships had the match under control early, but the Mercers came back with their unrelenting size and power. The Mercers win after a Double Chokeslam puts Jay Lethal down for the count. (MOTN) B

-A post-match attack is foiled by the World's Finest, who save their Night of Champion opponents, only to hit them a Codebreaker (to Kofi Kingston) and a Brogue Kick (to Jay Lethal). This ends the show.

-Post-show dark match had the Kings of Wrestling vs. F.O.M. The Kings make quick work of their opponents from Monday Night RAW, with Claudio Castagnoli getting the pin after hitting Yoshi Tatsu with the Ricola Bomb.


Overall Show Rating: 85
Some of the angles used definitely helped lift the show as a whole.

[Harmor]

Two notes about that show - first of all, a HUGE win for Davey Richards which is neat and secondly, I love how your tag team 'division' is so unpredictable and contested. Thumbs up for the booking and roll along, Night of Champions!