The 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania Thread

[Thanks for the Fish 0]

It was a good match, the two sold really well - especially Orton on the punt and sledge shot. I just don't see why HHH gets a dominating finish over Orton.

 

If anything I'd say it was under-booked. Orton has no excuse why he lost, if there was some outside interference, then he could blame that.

[Thanks for the Fish 0]

I'm still pissed about the Diva's entrance. I assume the wwe felt they didn't get enough A-List returnee's or something. Either that or they fell in love with the Santino in drag idea and decided to shit all over the Diva's for the bit of comedy.

 

Why bring back Molly, Sunny and the others if they get zero fanfare?

[YourKock'sReallyGreat 0]

I barely even saw those two in the ring. It's sad that whoever booked this shit gets paid 6 figures a year and this is the best that they can come up with. A 10 year old would have better ideas. Someone in the company needs to grow a pair of balls real quick and tell Vince that his product sucks dick.

[Thanks for the Fish 0]

They screwed over all of the Diva's because they wanted to sneak in "Santina" and not have the announcers notice him until late. The wwe has zero respect for women's wrestling - They need to get out of the stone age with their thinking. Why not just have "Santina" sneak in from under the ring during the match.

 

 

[Enigma 0]

I never even spotted Sunny in the match. I also thought it was sad that the announcers didn't notice Molly Holly until she was eliminated.

[Enigma 0]

WWE had a major problem tonight with the nation's largest cable company, Comcast. When I went to order the HD version of the show, I got the dreaded black screen of death. I was on hold for 40 minutes before someone came on and told me that they were having a problem with the HD feed (no kidding). This is the third or fourth show in a row that Comcast has screwed up the HD feed. Since I have been through this beofre with them, I just ordered the SD version too and when the representative finally got on the phone, I had her cancel the HD purchase. But, anyone who ordered it in HD got nothing and will get a refund, costing WWE buys.

 

Also, we have heard from other Comcast customers who said they had no SD feed either. How the nation's largest cable company can't make sure that they can sell one of the biggest PPV shows of the year to its customers is beyond me. The sad thing is that it will end up costing WWE buys.

[Thanks for the Fish 0]

WWE had a major problem tonight with the nation's largest cable company, Comcast. When I went to order the HD version of the show, I got the dreaded black screen of death. I was on hold for 40 minutes before someone came on and told me that they were having a problem with the HD feed (no kidding). This is the third or fourth show in a row that Comcast has screwed up the HD feed. Since I have been through this beofre with them, I just ordered the SD version too and when the representative finally got on the phone, I had her cancel the HD purchase. But, anyone who ordered it in HD got nothing and will get a refund, costing WWE buys.

 

Also, we have heard from other Comcast customers who said they had no SD feed either. How the nation's largest cable company can't make sure that they can sell one of the biggest PPV shows of the year to its customers is beyond me. The sad thing is that it will end up costing WWE buys.

 

And give the wwe an excuse for this shows likely shitty buyrate.

[NitroJMS 0]

I opted for the bar this year after Comcast screwed up on me last year. They forgot to turn on my feed of the show, despite me ordering it TWO DAYS in advance. I had to call them at 7:30 when the preview never came on and they finally got it working for me literally 3 minutes before showtime. Comcastic indeed.

 

Tonight's show had some good to great matches in HBK/Taker, Hardys, and MITB, but I felt the two main events felt flat, and Orton should have gone over.

[NitroJMS 0]

Has triple H now main evented the most Wrestlemanias? He's certainly had the most world title matches at one by now (I count 8)

 

He's went on last at 16, 18, 20, 21, 22, and 25, so he's still far shy of Hogan's 9 turns at final match/main event. I'm counting 4 and 9 for Hogan since at 4 he was top billed with Andre, and at 9 it was a billed double main event, plus the surprise ending match.

 

Off the top of my head, other guys who were billed in multiple main events:

 

HBK - 5 - 11, 12, 14, 20, 23

Austin - 3 - 14, 15, 17

Rock - 3 - 15, 16, 17

Bret - 3 - 9, 10, 12

Savage - 3 - 4, 5, 8

Cena - 2 - 22, 23

Taker - 2 - 13, 24

Andre - 3, 4

 

I remember 8, 9 and 11 having "double main events," I believe everything after that just referred to the final match as main event. Thing get wonky with the split when you have a show like 19 that has Hogan/Vince, Brock/Angle, HHH/Booker, HBK/Jericho, and Rock/Austin all back to back. Same goes for 20, which had 2 world title matches and 3 other matches that could be considered main events.

[cabbageboy 0]

I actually enjoyed the PPV more than I was expecting given the build. I'm sure Orton will show up tomorrow night on Raw and cut a tedious promo on how HHH used the sledgehammer on him and thus should have been disqualified and per the bogus rules of the match Orton would be the new champ. It's not going to work or anything, but it's the only way to go with it.

 

MITB was far better than I thought it would be, with Kofi in particular having a star making performance tonight. We'll see if they follow through with a push for him, or if he ends up like Shelton (the athletic black guy there to do crazy spots in MITB every year). But wow, the booking here surprised me in a good way. I didn't think there was any way Punk was winning again, though I guess his loss to JBL now makes sense (he lost the IC to get a bigger push).

 

Kid Rock's crap lasted far too long and I wonder if he went over in time and thus the tag match was bumped from the show. He should have been there to do the one song to introduce the women and that's it. Santina was hilarious however, but I wish they had hyped the returning divas more since I didn't know some were even IN the match until the were gone.

 

Jericho vs. Everyone was fun for what it was, with Steamboat popping the crowd with his segment in particular. Jericho winning actually surprised me a bit since I assumed he would beat 2 and lose to Steamboat, but in reality he shouldn't have any problem with the old dudes. Rourke decked him afterwards, but who cares?

 

When JBL was making his "historic win" pronouncements I figured he would end up jobbing out in near record time. Only booking that made sense and it was hilarious. Now he can go back to the booth to replace Taz.

 

HBK/UT was the real main event of the PPV, no real shock there. Everyone I watched with thought for sure that Taker was totally out of it after that crazy dive to the cameraman spot. Just a great match here, a few odd spots here and there, but easily the most dramatic match of the night.

 

Cena/Big Show/Edge was just...bleh. I suppose given the build Cena winning makes the most sense, with him being the only guy who was focused on winning the title. Match was no good though, and really given Show's involvement it had no chance to be decent. There's nowhere especially good to go with Cena as champ, and really there was no resolution to the whole Vickie angle either.

 

HHH/Orton was a very, very odd match. You went in expecting Russo style overbooking with Dibiase and Rhodes, Vince, Shane, Steph and whoever else. And what we got was a fairly straight ahead match with maybe 1 ref bump. Probably a little better than the other title match, but not anything worth writing home about. Still, with a mostly clean finish and HHH getting a rare WM win (first since 2003) it was a bit better than I thought it would be.

 

 

[Darth Pipes 0]

HBK/Taker was an absolute classic and worthy two of the most legendary (and longest-tenured) WWE stars. Hats off to both of them. Rick Steamboat showed why he's a Hall of Famer by busting his ass off tonight. I wish they had just made it Jericho vs Steamboat with Flair in his corner. I actually enjoyed Cena/Edge/Big Show. Show was utilized well here. HHH/Orton was a disappointment. Orton should have went over and it won't matter if he wins it at Backlash. They blew their chance to take him to the next level.

[goldengreek 0]

For the guys who missed the show:

 

 

Before WrestleMania 25: The Colons (Carlito & Primo) defeated John Morrison & The Miz to become the Unified WWE Tag Team Champions.

 

- The WWE promo hits.

 

- A video package airs featuring various WWE stars talking about what they consider to be the biggest moment in WrestleMania history. We then see highlights of what will be taking place tonight focusing on the triple threat for the World Heavyweight Championship, The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels and Triple H vs. Randy Orton for the WWE Championship.

 

- We then go live to Houston, TX where we see a huge audience in attendance. Nicole Scherzinger is in the ring and sings "America The Beautiful."

 

- A graphic opening hits welcoming us to the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania. We are back live in Houston where a huge display of pyro goes off inside the Reliant Stadium.

 

- We are starting things off tonight with the "Money in the Bank" Ladder match. Out first is CM Punk.

 

"Money in the Bank" Ladder Match

CM Punk vs. Mark Henry vs. WWE U.S. Champion MVP vs. Finlay vs. Shelton Benjamin vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Christian vs. Kane

 

The bell rings and a few people brawl while a few bail from the ring. Kane tosses a few people out and Mark Henry goes after him. Henry with a body splash on Kane in a corner. Benjamin and Christian bring a ladder in and hit Kane and Henry with it. Kingston dropkicks the ladder into Christian and Benjamin. Kingston with a leg splash over Christian and Benjamin over the ladder. Kane with a big bot on Finlay. The ladder is now setup and Kane climbs up. Henry climbs up as well. Others hit the ring to pull them down. Kane is tossed out of the ring and Henry is taken out as well. A second ladder is setup. Punk, Benjamin, Finlay and MVP are all on them. Kane and Henry return to the ring and push the ladders over clearing house! Kane with an uppercut to Henry and big boot combo. Kane tosses one of the ladders out and sets the other up under the briefcase. Kane climbs up and Henry pushes the ladder over causing Kane to crash to the mat. Henry tries tossing the ladder into Finlay, but Finlay dodges it and takes out Henry. Finlay with a suicide dive into Kane and Benjamin. Christian is in the ring and springboards off the top rope taking out Kane. MVP is up on the ring apron and flips into Finlay, Christian and Kane.

 

Punk and Kingston are now in the ring, hit the ropes and do a double suicide dive on the others outside the ring. Benjamin then climbs up a taller ladder, stands up top and flips off taking everyone out in a huge spot! Henry goes up to the top rope, but Finlay cracks him with a shillelagh (which is legal). Hornswoggle brings in a small ladder and Hornswoggle leaps off taking everyone out on the outside in a funny spot. Finlay grabs a big ladder and sets it up in the middle of the ring. Finlay takes out Kingston when he tries to hit the ring. Kingston flips through the middle of the ladder taking out Finlay and then tosses the ladder on top of Finlay! Kingston attempts a body splash, but Finlay brings up the small ladder brought in by Hornswoggle. Finlay uses the step ladder against Christian and Kane. Finlay sets up the ladder again, kicks away Kingston, but gets knocked off by Kingston via a dropkick. Kingston starts climbing up the ladder and Henry knocks him off. Henry then headbutts Kingston. Henry then holds up the ladder in the air folded up, Kingston runs forward scaling up it, reaches for the briefcase, falls off, Henry catches him and body slams him over the ladder! MVP grabs a ladder and hits Henry with it.

 

MVP tosses Benjamin into the corner when he runs in. MVP places his ladder from the top ropes inside the ladder standing up. Benjamin dropkicks into MVP using the ladder. Benjamin springboards off the ladder and MVP catches him in the air with a huge powerbomb! MVP climbs up the ladder, gets close to the briefcase, Punk climbs up, kicks MVP, Christian pulls MVP off, clotheslines him, Christian grabs Punk, Punk kicks Christian away, Punk reaches, Christian is up on the ladder across the ropes into the ladder, knocks Punk away, Punk has Christian on his shoulders, Christian gets down, grabs Punk and hits the Unprettier off the ladders! MVP is now back up on the ladder. Benjamin places a third ladder against a second that is going into the first. Benjamin attempts a sunset flip, but it becomes botched on the way down. Benjamin grabs MVP and powerbombs him over the top rope into others on the outside! Benjamin is climbing up the ladder and Finlay is up as well. They exchange punches and Benjamin hits Finlay with a stiff right hand knocking Finlay off hitting the second ladder first and then falling to the mat. Christian then goes after Benjamin and Benjamin hits him with a few knees.

 

Christian sets up a second tall ladder by the first tall ladder. Christian and Benjamin are on one of the tall ladders. It tips over, Benjamin falls off, but Christian puts his leg out to catch himself on the top rope. Christian pushes the ladder back to the middle, Punk is up top, he falls back and his leg is caught in the ladder. Kane is in and hits Christian. Kane climbs up the one of the ladders. Kane tosses Christian off. Kane is up with Punk who breaks free. Punk has his hand on the briefcase. Kane attempts a chokeslam. Punk kicks Kane repeatedly in the face. Punk kicks Kane away, reaches up and gets the "Money in the Bank" briefcase for the second year in a row.

 

Winner and the 2009 "Money in the Bank": CM Punk

 

After the match, we see highlights leading to the finish. Some very impressive spots this year. Back live, CM Punk is still up top and celebrating his victory holding up the briefcase.

 

- Highlights of the WWE Fan Axxess tour is shown this past week in Houston, TX along with other events.

 

- Kid Rock performs "Bawitdaba", "Rock N Roll Jesus", "Cowboy", "All Summer Long" and "So Hott" live inside the Reliant Stadium. The WWE Divas (current and past) head down to the ring during the last song. Very good performance by Kid Rock.

 

25 Diva Battle Royal

 

We kick things off right away after the performance by Kid Rock wraps up. Mae Young and Candice Michelle are at ringside. They are tossing girls out too quickly to catch names. Rosa Mendes and Layla were thrown out from what I can see. We see a shot of Sunny exchanging shots with Beth Phoenix. Torrie Wilson gets tossed out. Sunny is also thrown out. They leave together. Maria gets tossed out. Jillian gets thrown out along with Gail Kim. Eve and Tiffany get tossed out. Kelly Kelly and Molly Holly are out. Santino has been in the match the whole time dressed as a woman. Beth Phoenix threw out both Bella Twins. Michelle McCool and Mickie James are going at it in the corner. Mickie and McCool both fall off the top and are gone. We are down to Melina, Beth Phoenix and Santino in drag. Santino tosses Phoenix and Melina over the top rope and he wins.

 

Winner: Santina (Santino Marella's twin sister from Italy)

 

After the match, Candice Michelle comes into the ring and crowns Miss WrestleMania aka Santina aka Santino Marella in drag. "Santina" then does a little dance for us to Kid Rock's "So Hott."

 

- A video package airs highlighting "The Wrestler" starring Mickey Rourke. This transitions into Rourke calling out Chris Jericho and Jericho attacking legends over the last few weeks.

 

Elimination Match

Chris Jericho vs. Roddy Piper, Jimmy Snuka & Ricky Steamboat w/ Ric Flair

 

Mickey Rourke is shown taking a seat at ringside. I believe I spotted Frank Shamrock sitting by him. All four legends made their entrances and talked down the aisle together. The bell rings and we start with Roddy Piper against Chris Jericho. Piper tosses Jericho over the top rope and then tosses Jericho face first into the announce table. Jericho catches Piper with a big kick back in the ring. Piper with a rollup and Jericho breaks it up after two. Piper with a dropkick on Jericho to which JR addes, "I don't think I've seen Piper throw a dropkick since WrestleMania 1." Piper drives Jericho's face into the corner. Piper tags in Jimmy Snuka who takes a headbutt with Piper driving Jericho's head into his. Snuka with a few chops to Jericho, a takedown and tag to Ricky Steamboat. Steamboat with a sledgehammer from the top on Jericho. Steamboat hits his classic arm drags on Jericho and then goes to work on Jericho's left arm. Tag to Snuka and Snuka and Steamboat take Jericho down. Snuka with a headbutt to Jericho. Jericho then takes Snuka down, locks in the Walls of Jericho and Snuka taps out.

 

Jimmy Snuka is eliminated.

 

Jericho then tosses Steamboat out of the ring. Piper hits the ring and goes after Jericho. Piper with a big kick to the gut of Jericho. Piper eye pokes Jericho and then locks on the sleeper. Jericho breaks it up hitting the ropes and then kicking Piper in the back of the head. Jericho covers Piper and gets the pinfall.

 

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper is eliminated.

 

Steamboat with a cross body off the top rope and Jericho kicks out after two. Steamboat fights back with a few chest chops to Jericho. Jericho responds with a big boot, snapmare and kick to the back. Jericho locks on a modified full nelson on Steamboat. Steamboat fights to his feet, chops Jericho, hits a shoulder block, Jericho tosses Steamboat over the top rope, Steamboat holds on, flips back in and Jericho takes out Flair. Steamboat then springboards over the top rope and splashes Jericho on the outside! Steamboat tosses Jericho back in the ring, goes up top and connects with a big chop to the head. Steamboat with a rollup on Jericho from the corner and Jericho kicks out after two. Jericho with a running bulldog on Steamboat. Jericho misses the Lionsault when Steamboat rolls out of the way. Steamboat with a powerslam, cover and Jericho kicks out after two. Jericho gets Steamboat down and locks on the Walls of Jericho. Steamboat counters into an inside cradle...1...2...Jericho kicks out. Steamboat counters a back suplex and Jericho catches Steamboat with the Codebreaker. Jericho covers Steamboat and gets the pinfall.

 

Winner: Chris Jericho

 

After the match, Ric Flair hits the ring and goes after Chris Jericho. Flair lights up Jericho with big chops. Jericho with a high back body on Flair followed by a Codebreaker. Jericho then kicks Flair out of the ring. Jericho grabs a mic and calls himself the best in the world at what he does. He said he did just what he said he would do - he would erase the washed out Hall of Fame legends. Jericho then calls out Mickey Rourke saying he might play a tough guy in the movies, but he is a tough guy in real life. He demands Rourke apologize for what he said. Jericho calls Rourke a liar and said if he doesn't apologize he will slap him right in his face. Rourke leaves his seat and approaches the ringside area. He takes off his jacket and slowly gets into the ring. Rourke gets in a boxing stance waiting for Jericho. Jericho and Rourke circle each other in the ring. Rourke hits Jericho with a few jabs surprising Jericho. Jericho pushes forward and Rourke catches him with a hook dropping Jericho. Jericho is down and rolls out of the ring. Ric Flair returns to the ring and celebrates with Mickey Rourke.

 

- A video package airs highlighting the events between Matt Hardy and Jeff Hardy leading into tonight's match.

 

"Extreme Rules" Match

Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy

 

The bell rings and Jeff slaps Matt. Jeff with a tackle takedown on Matt with some punches. Jeff grabs framed WrestleMania poster and cracks it over Matt's face. Jeff tries to use a garbage can, but Matt blocks it. Jeff tosses Matt into the steel steps, backs up, leaps off the steps and takes out Matt with a flying side leg. Jeff brings a steel chair in and attempts this same spot again in the corner, but Matt moves. Matt grabs the steel chair, Jeff attempts a Whisper in the Wind and Matt cracks the chair into Jeff's lower back/legs. Matt chokes Jeff against the ropes, leaves the ring and cracks a vacuum over Jeff's head. Matt with a Side Effect on Jeff over the steel chair, cover and Jeff kicks out after two. Matt with a big right hand to Jeff in the corner. Matt then starts choking Jeff with his boot. Matt then wraps Jeff's left arm and leg across the steel ring post and pulls back with force. Matt then pulls a table from out under the ring. Matt goes up on the ring apron with Jeff, lifts him up for a suplex, Jeff blocks, hits a few right hands and Matt falls over the ring apron. Matt rolls off to his feet and Jeff runs across the ring apron, jumps and takes out Matt.

 

Jeff then sends Matt back first into the steel steps. Jeff grabs a kendo stick and crutch. Jeff cracks the kendo stick over Matt's back a few times as Matt rolls back inside the ring. Jeff puts a trash can over Matt, grabs the crutch and cracks it into his body. Jeff then uses the corner and dropkicks Matt right in the face into the garbage can, cover and Matt kicks out after two. Jeff with a face plant driver on Matt. Jeff goes up top, attempts a Swantom Bomb and Matt rolls out of the way. Matt with a Twist of Fate on Jeff, cover and Jeff kicks out after two. Matt then calls for the Swanton, but as he goes up top Jeff cuts him off. Jeff grabs Matt and hits a big superplex from the top. Jeff grabs a steel chair and cracks it over Matt's head when he gets to his feet. Matt falls to the outside and Jeff follows. Jeff tosses Matt on top of the table and places the steel chair over his chest. Jeff grabs a second table and places it on top of the first table with Matt in between. Jeff goes up to the top turnbuckle near the tables, stands high, jumps and splashes Matt crashing through both tables! Both men are out as we see a replay of Jeff crashing through the tables yet again.

 

Jeff then grabs Matt, tosses him back inside, hooks the leg and Matt gets a foot on the bottom rope. Jeff leaves the ring and pulls out two ladders from under the ring. Jeff tosses both inside the ring. Jeff sets up a steel chair, jumps off it and hits a leg over Matt. Jeff then sets up a tall ladder in the ring. Jeff grabs a second ladder (not as tall) next to that ladder. Jeff climbs up the smaller ladder, puts his hands on the taller ladder, lifts himself up in the air, attempts to hit a leg from high up, but Matt moves out of the way and Jeff crashes hard on the mat. Matt then places Jeff's head inside the steel chair, lifts him up, hits a Twist of Fate, covers and gets the pinfall.

 

Winner: Matt Hardy

 

After the match, a beat up Matt Hardy stumbles out of the ring and tries to recover as he heads up the ramp. WWE officials check on Jeff Hardy in the ring. We see a few replays of the missed leg by Jeff Hardy that allowed Matt Hardy to captalize to get the win. Back live, Matt is celebrating his win as we see a shot of a beat up Jeff Hardy in the middle of the ring.

 

- A promo for the WWE "Legends of WrestleMania" video game airs.

 

- Backstage, Randy Orton is shown getting ready for his WWE Championship match later tonight. We see a shot of Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase in the locker room with him.

 

- WWE Intercontinental Champion JBL walks out on the ramp. He insults the crowd in Texas saying they have nothing to live for except for their hero, JBL! JBL said today he will present the most dominant victory in WrestleMania history. Rey Mysterio came out dressed with a "Joker" look to his costume.

 

WWE Intercontinental Championship Match

JBL © vs. Rey Mysterio

 

They did ring introductions for the challenger Rey Mysterio and champion JBL.

 

JBL levels Rey Mysterio with a big boot before the referee called for the bell. JBL got in a few more shots in the corner. The referee calls for the bell, Mysterio hits a kick to the head, 619 and body splash from the top rope. Mysterio hooks the leg and gets the pinfall!

 

Winner & NEW WWE Intercontinental Champion: Rey Mysterio

 

After the match, they clocked the match as lasting 21 seconds. JBL is shown sitting in the ring in total shock about what just happened as we see Mysterio continuing to celebrate. JBL grabs the mic, "I've got something to say. I...I...I...I QUIT!" JBL throws down the mic, looks around at the crowd and leaves. He yells at fans as he heads up the ramp and goes to the back.

 

- A video package airs highlighting the events between The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels leading to tonight's "Streak" vs. "Mr. WrestleMania" match.

 

- Shawn Michaels made his entrance coming down a platform that was high up on the WrestleMania stage. When it came down on the stage, a series of pyro went off and HBK made his way down the ramp. Jim Ross noted the irony of numbers pointing out that this is HBK's 16th WrestleMania and how The Undertaker is 16-0 at WrestleMania. The Undertaker made his entrance coming up from under the stage.

 

The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels

 

The bell rings and here we go. HBK with a quick chest chop to Taker. HBK with more chops to Taker and backs off. HBK with elbows after dodging more offense from Taker. Another big chop from HBK. Taker blocks a right hand from HBK and tosses HBK with force to the corner. HBK jumps over Taker, fakes a knee injury and then tackles Taker. Taker tosses HBK to the corner with force again and gets in some big body shots. Taker with a big uppercut that levels HBK. Taker with a right hand and headbutt to HBK in the corner. HBK with chops to Taker in the corner. Taker with a high back body on HBK. Taker lifts HBK up and slams him down with a big press slam. Taker hits the ropes, hits an elbow, cover and HBK kicks out quickly. Taker with a few shoulder charges to HBK. Taker grabs HBK's arms and hits the Old School. Taker misses a running big boot when HBK moves out of the way. HBK hits Taker's shin across his knee and then trips him up after hitting the ropes. HBK with a big kick to Taker's head. HBK with shots to the gut of Taker and applies the Figure Four Leg Lock. Taker dodges a pinfall attempt quickly sitting up. HBK forcing Taker back to his shoulders and Taker sits up each time during a pinfall attempt.

 

Taker with a few right hands to HBK. HBK with a kick to Taker's knees taking him off his feet. Taker grabs HBK and throws him with force into the corner. Taker with big right hands to HBK. Taker with a running clothesline to HBK in the opposite corner. Taker charges and hits another clothesline. Taker with snake eyes and a big boot to HBK. Taker hits a leg over HBK's throat, covers and HBK gets a shoulder up after two. HBK counters a chokeslam attempt into the Crossface. Taker rolls HBK over to his back with the Crossface still in, HBK pushes back over after a two count and keeps the Crossface locked in. Taker fights to his knees, to his feet, HBK is still hanging on and Taker hits a big side slam. Cover by Taker and HBK gets a shoulder up after two. Taker with punches, HBK with a kick to the gut, chops, more chops and a flying elbow. HBK flips up and heads to the corner. HBK walks forward, hits an atomic on Taker, another atomic and a flying clothesline after hitting the ropes. HBK starts climbing up to the top turnbuckle when Taker sits up. HBK jumps, Taker catches HBK, attempts a chokeslam, HBK breaks it up, attempts a Figure Four and Taker pulls HBK down into the Hell's Gate (gogoplata).

 

HBK is able to push his body over and get to the ropes to break it up. HBK bails to the outside and Taker follows. Taker gets in a few shots on HBK, puts up him on the ring apron, pulling his head out over the ring apron, Taker walks across the ring apron, hits a leg, but HBK moves out of the way. HBK with a baseball slide to Taker through the ropes. HBK then goes up to the top turnbuckle, turns his body, attempts a moonsault, but Taker dodges it and HBK crashes on the mat. The referee checks on HBK who is favoring his wrist. Taker rolls back into the ring, sits up and stares down HBK. Taker hits the ropes, leaps over the top rope, HBK grabs a camera man, pulls the camera man in front of him and Taker crashes over the camera man! That was a pretty nasty fall for both the camera man and Taker. Looked even nastier on the replay. HBK pulls the referee into the ring and makes him start a count for Taker. The referee starts the count...1...2...3...4...5...6...7...8...9...and Taker rolls in and the match will continue. HBK stands up in the corner, moves forward attempting Sweet Chin Music, Taker dodges it and hits a chokeslam on HBK! Hook of the leg...1...2...HBK kicks out!

 

HBK got some serious height taking that chokeslam which was very impressive. Taker picks up HBK, HBK falls back, Sweet Chin Music, counter, chokeslam attempt, counter and HBK catches Taker with Sweet Chin Music this time. HBK puts an arm over Taker...1...2...Taker gets a shoulder up after two. HBK then flips up and reaches down. Taker wraps his hand across HBK's throat, hits a kick, goes for the Last Ride, HBK counters falling behind, Taker pulls HBK back up into the Last Ride and connects! Taker hooks the leg...1...2...HBK somehow kicks out! Taker can't believe it and falls back into the ropes frustrated. Taker leaves the ring, goes up to the top turnbuckle, stands up, jumps attempting a flying elbow and HBK moves out of the way. Taker gets to his feet along with HBK. Taker tosses HBK over the top rope. HBK holds on, grabs Taker by the head using his legs trying to pull him over, Taker holds on, backs up, has HBK up for the Tombstone Piledriver, connects, covers...1...2...HBK again kicks out and Taker literally can't believe it. The electricity in the Reliant Stadium is beyond words right now! Taker gets to his feet, throws down the straps and slits the throat signaling for the end.

 

Taker grabs HBK, lifts him up in the air and HBK counters coming down with a DDT. HBK then pulls himself to the corner, climbs up the top turnbuckle, stands up, jumps and connects with the flying elbow on Taker. HBK then backs up to the corner and starts tuning up the band. HBK pushes forward with Sweet Chin Music and connects! HBK hooks the leg...1...2...Taker gets a shoulder up and the crowd in Houston goes absolutely nuts! Both are locked up on their knees as they stand up. HBK with a big chest chop, Taker with a big right hand, HBK with a chop, Taker with a right hand, HBK with a right hand, Taker with a right hand, another right hand, HBK with a chop, another chop, a third chop and Taker levels HBK with a huge big boot. Taker lifts HBK up, HBK with elbows to Taker, HBK with a chop, another chop, third chop, fourth chop, HBK with a big boot in the corner and Taker is down. HBK is up top, hits a moonsault, but Taker catches him in the air and hits the Tombstone Piledriver! Taker covers HBK...1...2...3. The Undertaker remains undefeated at WrestleMania and is now 17-0! What a match!

 

Winner: The Undertaker

 

After the match, The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels are both laying down trying to recover when Undertaker is the first to sit up. We see highlights of the match leading to the finish. We are back live and Undertaker takes a knee as the blue light fills the Reliant Stadium. A "17-0" graphic is displayed across the WrestleMania set as Undertaker looks on.

 

- A promo for the 2009 WWE Draft on April 13 is shown.

 

- Evander Holyfield is shown at ringside.

 

- A video package runs highlighting the events between Edge, John Cena and Big Show leading to tonight's World Heavyweight Championship triple threat match.

 

World Heavyweight Championship Match

Edge © vs. John Cena vs. Big Show

 

Chavo Guerrero was shown wheeling Vickie Guerrero down to the ringside area. An army of men dressed as John Cena walked out first and stood across from each other as Cena made his entrance. They did introductions for challenges The Big Show and John Cena and champion Edge.

 

The bell rings and John Cena goes after Big Show and Edge. Big Show levels Edge with a clothesline. Cena takes out Edge with a bulldog. Cena attempts flying shoulder on Big Show, but Big Show just stands there and Cena hits him and falls back. Big Show grabs Edge and crotches him over the top rope. Big Show with a headbutt to Edge and big chest chop in the corner. Big Show tosses Edge into Cena who goes for the Attitude Adjustment, but Big Show hits Cena with a big boot and Edge rolls away. Big Show stands over Cena's chest with force. Chavo pushes Vickie closer to Edge who is on the outside recovering by the steel steps. Cena hits the ropes and Big Show catches him launching him in the air and Cena crashes hard. Cena tosses Big Show over the top rope to the outside. Edge dropkicks the steel steps into Big Show and Cena follows that up dropping a leg over the back of Big Show's neck on the outside. In the ring, Edge counters an Attitude Adjustment attempt into a spike DDT. Edge covers and Cena gets a shoulder up after a two count. Edge is up top and Cena knocks him off. Big Show is back in and hits Cena with a big side slam, cover and Cena kicks out after two.

 

Cena with big right hands to Cena. Cena hits the ropes and Chavo trips him up pulling him out. Cena grabs Chavo and hits the Attitude Adjustment on the outside. Cena hits the ring and hits a big shoulder tackle to Big Show who falls back into the ropes and gets caught. Edge hits the ring and Cena takes him out with a side suplex. Big Show is held up in the ropes yelling out. Cena hits the five knuckle shuffle on Edge. Vickie is up on the ring apron. Cena attempts an Attitude Adjustment, Edge falls off, charges and spears Vickie off the ring apron. Cena with a rollup and Edge kicks out. Big Show breaks free from the ropes and takes out both Edge and Cena. Big Show with headbutts on Edge and Cena. Big Show clotheslines Cena in the corner and hits a slap to the chest. Big Show does the same to Edge. Big Show with a double splash on Edge and Cena. Big Show grabs Edge and Cena, hits a chokeslam on Edge, Cena breaks free and Big Show knocks out Cena with a big right hand. Big Show follows Edge to the outside and Edge hits a DDT on Big Show. Edge grabs the steel steps and drags them near Big Show. Edge backs up, charges, jumps and spears Big Show through the ring barricade into the crowd!

 

Edge leaves the area with Big Show and goes after Cena. Edge tosses Cena into the ring, hooks the leg and Cena gets a shoulder up after two. Edge then backs up in the corner and waits for Cena to get to his feet. Cena is up, Edge charges, Cena trips up Edge and locks on the STF. Edge reaches out, Cena breaks the hold and reapplies it. Edge continues to reach out and Big Show grabs Cena by the neck through the ropes to break it up. Big Show headbutts Cena, gets in the ring, Cena falls out, Big Show climbs up to the second rope, attempts a body splash and Edge moves out of the way. Cena is back in, grabs Big Show, attempts a suplex, Big Show holds back, Edge comes in and Edge and Cena suplex Big Show. Edge and Cena stare each other down after doing this and then go after Big Show clotheslining him out of the ring. Edge then clocks Cena with a big boot, covers and Cena kicks out. Cena with a blockbuster on Edge. Cena goes up top, stands high, but Big Show pushes him forward and Edge catches Cena with a Spear! Edge pulls Cena back, hooks the leg and Big Show pulls Edge out chopping him over his chest. Big Show returns to the ring and headbutts Edge. Edge with a big boot on Big Show. Edge now has Big Show's back and applies a sleeper. Cena walks up, lifts up Big Show on his shoulders, Cena now has Edge and Big Show both up, Edge jumps off and Cena hits Big Show with the Attitude Adjustment. Attitude Adjustment on Edge over Big Show. Cena covers Big Show and gets the pinfall!

 

Winner & NEW World Heavyweight Champion: John Cena

 

After the match, John Cena holds up the World Heavyweight Championship as pyro goes off above the ring. Cena leaves the ring and celebrates his title win in the crowd. We then see highlights of the match leading to the finish. Back live, Cena is back in the ring and holds up the World Heavyweight Championship one more time. He leaves the ring and poses one last time at ringside and then heads up the ramp.

 

- A promo for WrestleMania 26 on March 28 in Arizona next year is shown.

 

- Inductees into the Class of 2009 WWE Hall of Fame take the stage at. This includes Terry Funk and Dory Funk Jr., "Cowboy" Bill Watts, Howard Finkel, Koko B. Ware, Kevin Von Erich representing the Von Erich family, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. Austin left the stage and came back out on his four wheeler doing a few circles around the ring. Austin then gets in the ring, calls for a few beers and celebrates with the fans in Houston. Austin left the ring and did a beer salute with JR. Lawler said JR drinking should make the rest of the broadcast interesting. JR added, "I'm not driving!" All the announcers called Austin's appearance as a "farewell."

 

- A promo for WWE Backlash on April 26 airs.

 

- Attendance tonight in Houston: 72,744.

 

- A video package runs highlighting the events between Triple H and Randy Orton leading to tonight's match for the WWE Championship.

 

- Backstage, we see a shot of Triple H heading to the arena with the WWE Championship. Vince and Shane McMahon walk up. They all share a look and Triple H pats Vince on the shoulder and walks away.

 

WWE Championship Match

The title can change hands on a DQ finish

Triple H © vs. Randy Orton

 

During Triple H's entrance, he threw a sledgehammer at glass and it smashed in front of him as he started heading down the ramp. They did ring introductions for the challenger Randy Orton and the champion Triple H.

 

The bell rings and here we go. Randy Orton circles Triple H who continues to stare down Orton. Triple H tackles Orton. Big right hands from Triple H to Orton. Triple H with stiff right hands to Orton putting him down in the corner. Triple H with some stiff kicks to Orton. The referee gets in Triple H's face warning him that he will lose his title if he is disqualified. Orton then hits Triple H with an RKO out of no where! Orton then backs up attempting a punt to the head. Triple H dodges it, kicks Orton in the gut and hits a Pedigree! Orton rolls to the outside and Triple H follows decking him from behind. Triple H throws Orton across the announce table. Orton bails back to the ring as Triple H grabs a bottle of water and throws it on his face trying to regain some composure. Triple H hits the ring and takes out Orton with some big right hands. Orton bails outside again, Triple H follows, Orton tries to throw Triple H's head into the ring post, but Triple H blocks and does it to Orton. Both are back in the ring and Triple H hits Orton with a stiff kick to the chest. Triple H with a catapult into the bottom rope on Orton. Triple H drives a knee into the side of Orton's face.

 

Triple H hits the ropes and hits another knee across the head of Orton. Triple H with a lariat to the back of the head after hitting the ropes. Orton rolls out of the ring and Triple H follows. Orton tosses Triple H shoulder first into the steel ring steps. Orton then sends Triple H shoulder first into the ring barricade and over near the timekeeper. Orton returns to the ring and the referee starts the count. The referee counts...1...2...3...4...5...6...7...Triple H is back in and Orton meets him with some stiff kicks to the body. Orton with a big stomp over Triple H's chest. Orton mounts Triple H and gets in some stiff rights. Orton with a kick and more right hands to Triple H. Triple H counters a headlock by Orton into a big back suplex. Orton with a powerslam on Triple H, hook of the leg and Triple H kicks out. Orton applies a side headlock keeping the action grounded. Triple H is to his feet and Orton backs him up with some stiff right hands. The two exchange right hands in the corner. Triple H with a big flying knee to Orton. Triple H with a clothesline in the corner, knee to the face, Pedigree attempt, Orton counters and catapults Triple H face first into the corner.

 

Triple H fires back with a big clothesline on Orton. Triple H hooks the leg and Orton kicks out after two. Triple H puts Orton up on the top turnbuckle, Triple H with right hands, Orton slips down and hits Triple H face first off the turnbuckle. Orton is on the second rope, jumps, Triple H gets a boot up, Orton counters and gets a rollup resulting in a two count on Triple H. Triple H with a rollup and Orton kicks out. Triple H with a big spinebuster on Orton in the middle of the ring. Triple H attempts a Pedigree, but Orton counters hitting Triple H with an inverted back breaker. Orton covers Triple H and Triple H barely gets a shoulder up after two. Triple H with an elbow to Orton. Triple H goes up to the top turnbuckle, but as he jumps down Orton catches him with a huge dropkick. Very impressive spot there. Orton backs up, attempts another punt, Triple H grabs Orton's leg and lifts him backwards over the top rope to the outside. Triple H follows Orton out, hits a big right and then throws Orton into the announce table. Triple H then grabs a TV monitor and the referee warns Triple H that if he uses it he will be disqualified and will lose his title. Triple H throws down the monitor and then kicks Orton in the head.

 

Triple H has Orton up on the main WWE announce table with the spanish announce table also cleared off. Triple H stands over Orton, picks him up, attempts a Pedigree, but Orton counters lifting Triple H over his head and crashing over the spanish announce table. The table doesn't break as Triple H moves around in pain. Orton grabs Triple H by his head, pulls him out and hits Triple H with a huge DDT over the floor at the ringside area. Orton rolls back into the ring and the referee starts the count. 1...2...3...4...5...6...7...8...9...Triple H rolls back in. Orton then begins stomping Triple H repeatedly. Orton props Triple H up in the corner and gets in a few right hands. Orton with more kicks to Triple H in the corner. Orton starts choking Triple H with his boot. Triple H with a big right hand, Orton sends Triple H into the referee and then Orton hits the RKO on Triple H. Orton then rolls out of the ring with the referee down and gets a sledgehammer. As Orton gets in the ring, Triple H punts him right in the head and Orton is out. Triple H then grabs the sledgehammer, cracks it over Orton's head, Triple H tosses it away and hits some huge right hands on Orton. The referee breaks this up and Triple H picks up Orton. Pedigree attempt and Triple H connects. Cover...1...2...3.

 

Winner & STILL WWE Champion: Triple H

 

 

 

[goldengreek 0]

Im disgusted !!!!!

How do they not have Orton go over ??

I know " send the crowd home happy " BUT fuk that !!

They painted themselves into a corner - could have had the Cena match last but the HHH / ORTON match was definately the actual MAIN EVENT

 

My thoughts:

 

HBK / TAKER - Easlily the best match

 

Money in the Bank 2nd best match and my boy Punk won

 

Hardy / Hardy was average

 

Santino is just pure comedy gold - I have man love for Santino

 

Im sick of them shoving Cena down our thoats but it was expected and predictable

 

Horrible booking to put HHH over Orton - pretty decent match tho

 

Im disgusteded the Orton didnt go over.

 

They built him up as a mega heel .. kids been doing an awesome job the last year and HHH wins

 

Horrible decision. They just buried Orton and Legacy

 

 

Why in the fuk do you build Jericho and Orton up for months and on the biggest stage give them nothing

Bad booking.

Screw the Cena part. We all knew that was a given when austin gave him the beer at the HOF.

It's no secret by now. Cena = New Hogan.

Same script just new faces.

 

[Exslade ZX 0]

The one thing I can't figure out, is why in the hell did Carlito and Primo get the titles!?

 

How are Miz/Morrison supposed to be "The Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century" if they can't even beat Carlito, and Lil Bro, in a Wrestlemania dark match? Sad, sad day.

[goldengreek 0]

The one thing I can't figure out, is why in the hell did Carlito and Primo get the titles!?

 

How are Miz/Morrison supposed to be "The Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century" if they can't even beat Carlito, and Lil Bro, in a Wrestlemania dark match? Sad, sad day.

Morrison is the new HBK. So in the draft he is going solo to another brand.

That way they can still do the WWE.com piece but have their own careers.

Miz is mid card talent at best. Not his fault. Kid works hard. But just looking from Vince's perspective.

 

[Superfly Snuka 0]

It will be interesting to see what they do with Punk's title shot. Given that he has already done the almost heel-like cash in on already beaten up/injured champion, they have to do something different...unless they turn him heel prior to it (straight edge heel punk would be fantastic, but probably not happening anytime soon). Will he be the first MOB winner to challenge and lose? He blew his proverbial load by very quickly cashing it in last time. Will they have him cash it in at next Wrestlemania? Unlikely given his size and my guess that Vince/creative don't think of him as a true headliner of a PPV at this point, let alone the biggest of the year. As opposed to edge who cashed it in in sort of the same sneaky way, they'll have to be creative with Punk's 2nd time around. Hopefully, they don't have him lose his opportunity Kennedy style (although of course he was legit injured). Thoughts?

[Enigma 0]

Upon a re-examination, Joy Giovanni was also in the battle royal.

[theone 0]

The one thing I can't figure out, is why in the hell did Carlito and Primo get the titles!?

 

How are Miz/Morrison supposed to be "The Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century" if they can't even beat Carlito, and Lil Bro, in a Wrestlemania dark match? Sad, sad day.

Relax bro, the Draft is in a week.

[AntiLeaf33 0]

WWE had a major problem tonight with the nation's largest cable company, Comcast. When I went to order the HD version of the show, I got the dreaded black screen of death. I was on hold for 40 minutes before someone came on and told me that they were having a problem with the HD feed (no kidding). This is the third or fourth show in a row that Comcast has screwed up the HD feed. Since I have been through this beofre with them, I just ordered the SD version too and when the representative finally got on the phone, I had her cancel the HD purchase. But, anyone who ordered it in HD got nothing and will get a refund, costing WWE buys.

 

Also, we have heard from other Comcast customers who said they had no SD feed either. How the nation's largest cable company can't make sure that they can sell one of the biggest PPV shows of the year to its customers is beyond me. The sad thing is that it will end up costing WWE buys.

 

Can't say I'm shocked to hear that. I worked for Comcast cable for a few years and it was the biggest hack job of a cable company I've ever seen. If you are having issues with a feed of anything there is NOTHING they can do for you. Maybe offer a small credit, but nothing that is going to fix the feed.

[Thanks for the Fish 0]

The MITB finish always seems anti-climatic. They really need to work on the finish. If Benjamin and MVP didn't blow the powerbomb spot it would have been epic. Benjamin runs up the ladder from the outside, across the ladder "bridge" up the bigger ladder to confront MVP who is almost at the briefcase and then floats over him to set-up the powerbomb spot. I think MVP chickened out/hesitated (maybe out of self preservation) because Benjamin seemed pissed and really chucked him when they covered for the blown spot.

[Wrestlefreak 0]

I stayed up to watch Mania. Taker/HBK was amazing! Every second was intriguing and I was actually scared for Taker when he took that sick bump after the suicide dive.

 

As for the rest of the card, it was pretty good. MITB had great spots as usual, although I would have preferred somebody else to win. I love Punk, but MITB is always better when it's won by somebody who's never had it before.

 

LOL at Piper swearing at Jericho. Up until that point, I didn't think the show was on a time delay.

 

Jeff/Matt was good. The Twist of Fate on the chair was a great finish. Matt's coat was nice.

 

The Cena clones were cool. I have to admit, despite being a Cena-hater, his Mania entrances are always great. Good to hear Thuganomics again. The match was decent. Big show screaming at the ref to get him out of the ropes was funny.

 

Orton/HHH was very much an anti-climax. It should have been alot more violent. I know WWE is TV-PG now, but they should have made an exception last night. I knew Orton wasn't going over.

 

17-0 BABY!!

[Poison 0]

Big show screaming at the ref to get him out of the ropes was funny.

 

I was personally hoping that they'd leave The Big Show tied up in the ropes for the duration of the show, yelling at everybody to untie him over the course of both championship matches.

[ANKLELOCK 0]

I believe Judgment Day is in Chicago, so Punk will be cashing it in there to prove those who thought he got lucky last year wrong. Like RVD in 2006, he will pre-announce it I imagine. I hope Orton is champ by then so we can get the blowoff to that angle.

[Diamonddust 0]

I believe Judgment Day is in Chicago, so Punk will be cashing it in there to prove those who thought he got lucky last year wrong. Like RVD in 2006, he will pre-announce it I imagine. I hope Orton is champ by then so we can get the blowoff to that angle.

 

I've mentioned it before, but with Punk winning... I fully expected Edge to retain, and Punk to go to Smackdown so he could start a program with Edge over there.

[Thanks for the Fish 0]

I believe Judgment Day is in Chicago, so Punk will be cashing it in there to prove those who thought he got lucky last year wrong. Like RVD in 2006, he will pre-announce it I imagine. I hope Orton is champ by then so we can get the blowoff to that angle.

 

I've mentioned it before, but with Punk winning... I fully expected Edge to retain, and Punk to go to Smackdown so he could start a program with Edge over there.

 

I expect there to be a new Draft rule that the title stays behind, meaning when HHH is drafted to Raw he loses his title. From there SD! can have a tournament to crown a new champion. Judgment Day is May 17th, the draft is Apr 13th, so SD could stretch out the tournement in order to have the finals (and even better the semi-finals) on the Judgment Day PPV.

 

You could have Punk lose the Semi's, only to use his MITB contract to make the finals a triple threat.

[theone 0]

I believe Judgment Day is in Chicago, so Punk will be cashing it in there to prove those who thought he got lucky last year wrong. Like RVD in 2006, he will pre-announce it I imagine. I hope Orton is champ by then so we can get the blowoff to that angle.

 

I've mentioned it before, but with Punk winning... I fully expected Edge to retain, and Punk to go to Smackdown so he could start a program with Edge over there.

 

I expect there to be a new Draft rule that the title stays behind, meaning when HHH is drafted to Raw he loses his title. From there SD! can have a tournament to crown a new champion. Judgment Day is May 17th, the draft is Apr 13th, so SD could stretch out the tournement in order to have the finals (and even better the semi-finals) on the Judgment Day PPV.

 

You could have Punk lose the Semi's, only to use his MITB contract to make the finals a triple threat.

It wont happen, the shows wont be treated as separate brands any longer

 

Going into the WWE Draft on April 13, the idea is that Raw and Smackdown will no longer be treated as separate brands, but equal. Last year they moved Triple H, Jeff Hardy and Jim Ross to Smackdown to strengthen the shows transition to MyNetworkTV. The move is seen as unsuccessful considering the drop in ratings. The plan now is to move the top talent to Raw for maximum exposure, and keep two-three stars on Smackdown to keep house show business strong.

 

Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

[JPopStarKami 0]

I believe Judgment Day is in Chicago, so Punk will be cashing it in there to prove those who thought he got lucky last year wrong. Like RVD in 2006, he will pre-announce it I imagine. I hope Orton is champ by then so we can get the blowoff to that angle.

 

I've mentioned it before, but with Punk winning... I fully expected Edge to retain, and Punk to go to Smackdown so he could start a program with Edge over there.

 

I expect there to be a new Draft rule that the title stays behind, meaning when HHH is drafted to Raw he loses his title. From there SD! can have a tournament to crown a new champion. Judgment Day is May 17th, the draft is Apr 13th, so SD could stretch out the tournement in order to have the finals (and even better the semi-finals) on the Judgment Day PPV.

 

You could have Punk lose the Semi's, only to use his MITB contract to make the finals a triple threat.

It wont happen, the shows wont be treated as separate brands any longer

 

Going into the WWE Draft on April 13, the idea is that Raw and Smackdown will no longer be treated as separate brands, but equal. Last year they moved Triple H, Jeff Hardy and Jim Ross to Smackdown to strengthen the shows transition to MyNetworkTV. The move is seen as unsuccessful considering the drop in ratings. The plan now is to move the top talent to Raw for maximum exposure, and keep two-three stars on Smackdown to keep house show business strong.

 

Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

 

So wait, that's not clear. Are they or are they not merging the brands? They talk about leaving stars on Smackdown as if they'd still be a separate brand.

[Jake_2010 0]

I believe Judgment Day is in Chicago, so Punk will be cashing it in there to prove those who thought he got lucky last year wrong. Like RVD in 2006, he will pre-announce it I imagine. I hope Orton is champ by then so we can get the blowoff to that angle.

 

I've mentioned it before, but with Punk winning... I fully expected Edge to retain, and Punk to go to Smackdown so he could start a program with Edge over there.

 

I expect there to be a new Draft rule that the title stays behind, meaning when HHH is drafted to Raw he loses his title. From there SD! can have a tournament to crown a new champion. Judgment Day is May 17th, the draft is Apr 13th, so SD could stretch out the tournement in order to have the finals (and even better the semi-finals) on the Judgment Day PPV.

 

You could have Punk lose the Semi's, only to use his MITB contract to make the finals a triple threat.

It wont happen, the shows wont be treated as separate brands any longer

 

Going into the WWE Draft on April 13, the idea is that Raw and Smackdown will no longer be treated as separate brands, but equal. Last year they moved Triple H, Jeff Hardy and Jim Ross to Smackdown to strengthen the shows transition to MyNetworkTV. The move is seen as unsuccessful considering the drop in ratings. The plan now is to move the top talent to Raw for maximum exposure, and keep two-three stars on Smackdown to keep house show business strong.

 

Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

 

So wait, that's not clear. Are they or are they not merging the brands? They talk about leaving stars on Smackdown as if they'd still be a separate brand.

 

It's not very clear, but I think the idea is that they aren't going to try to treat RAW and Smackdown as equal brands anymore. RAW will be the clear flagship show with the vast majority of the star power.

 

[Enigma 0]

Did Cena come out to his old Basic Thuganomics music?

[theone 0]

Did Cena come out to his old Basic Thuganomics music?

The Cena clones did, but he didn't.