WWE '07 - The Show Must Go On!

LEGACY TAKES OUT THE BOSS (90%)
RAW begins with a look back at last week when Randy Orton introduced the world to the new group “Legacy.” Consisting of all 3rd Generation Superstars, Orton, Ted DiBiase Jr., and Joe Hennig caused havoc last week and it culminated in the Chairman of the WWE, Vince McMahon, getting taken out with an 'RKO' on the stage. After the video package, the RAW Intro hit and the pyro cleared, Good Ol' Jim Ross and Jerry 'The King' Lawler welcomed the audience in. A graphic then showed tonight's 6-Man Tag Team Main Event as Legacy would take on Cody Rhodes, Triple H, and the WWE Champion, John Cena.

MATCH 1: THE WORLD'S GREATEST TAG TEAM © [CHARLIE HAAS & SHELTON BENJAMIN] VS. THE RENEGADES [LANCE CADE & CHRIS HARRIS] – WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP (71%, 2.5*)
This led right into the opening contest, also a tag team match but for the World Tag Team Championships. A weird dynamic as both teams are heels but The Renegades, Lance Cade in particular, were looking to prove that the switch from Trevor Murdoch to 'Wildcat' Chris Harris was the right call. Early in the match, Benjamin shined before giving way to Haas. Standard action after for the most part as The Renegades worked more heelish, isolating Charlie Haas from his corner and being relentless on him with quick tags. An opening came when Harris went for a scoop slam but Haas countered and hit his own Exploder Suplex. Benjamin got the hot tag and leaped over the top rope, knocking Cade down with a forearm smash to the chest. Cade was up quickly but got knocked down again before Shelton hit a 'Stinger Splash' as Cade tried to use the corner to get up. Harris then entered the ring and caught Shelton's leg but Shelton hit a Dragon Whip kick, knocking 'The Wildcat' through the ropes. Benjamin tagged in Haas and Haas set Cade up near the ropes for Shelton to leap over and hit the 'Stun Gun.' Benjamin would make the cover and WGTT would retain their titles. As they celebrated, Harris could be mouthed asking Cade “What the hell was that?” while giving a disappointed look. Problems brewing already for The Renegades???
WINNERS: THE WORLD'S GREATEST TAG TEAM VIA PINFALL IN 11:27

THE NEW DIGS (70%)
The camera cuts backstage where we see a shot of the door of the RAW General Manager's office. It reads “Acting General Manager, Armando Alejandro Estrada” and the camera pans out to see Estrada admiring his new office. Estrada walks in and takes a look around before sitting down at his desk and putting his feet up. Estrada then quickly takes his feet down when Bobby Lashley comes into his office and asks what's Armando's problem. Estrada tells Lashley to not come a step closer as he's in charge now and Lashley pounds the desk and asks if Estrada is trying to get back at him because he beat his boy (Umaga) in the past. Estrada chuckles and says all Lashley has to do is beat Carlito & Primo in a Handicap Match to qualify for the Royal Rumble. So that's why Lashley was mad...Lashley tells Estrada to watch closely because he will make an example of the both of them before leaving. JR points out that Estrada is already using his power to fill his agenda.

MATCH 2: BETH PHOENIX VS. KELLY KELLY (52%, 0.5*)
The Women's Champion, Beth Phoenix, took on Kelly Kelly next after the former ruined the latter's RAW debut by attacking her post-match. 'The Glamazon' was her dominant self in this match and roughed up Kelly Kelly from bell to bell. Kelly Kelly briefly turned the match in her favor by shocking Phoenix with a tilt-a-whirl headscissors takedown. However, when Kelly Kelly tried to hit a handspring back elbow smash, Beth exploded out of the corner and struck first with a nasty forearm to the back of Kelly Kelly's neck. From there it was academic as Beth picked Kelly Kelly up and flattened her with 'The Glam Slam,' getting the pin. Despite the win, Phoenix wasn't satisfied and started beating up Kelly Kelly some more. Beth was about to get Kelly Kelly up for another 'Glam Slam' but Mickie James' music hit and she sprinted down to the ring. Beth dropped Kelly Kelly and she and Mickie started to trade blows. This time, Mickie got the upper hand and hit a roundhouse kick to Phoenix's face. Beth retreated under the ropes and gave Mickie an intense look as she grabbed her jaw.
WINNER: BETH PHOENIX VIA PINFALL IN 4:16

MR. KENNEDY IS A FAN (70%)
The camera goes back to Armando Alejandro Estrada in his office when Mr. Kennedy walks in. This time, Estrada is all chummy, shaking Kennedy's hand. Kennedy tells Estrada that while he didn't win last week, he's entering himself into the Royal Rumble Match so he can go onto Main Event WrestleMania! Of course, Estrada grants the request, not putting Kennedy through the same hoops as Lashley. Kennedy then says that he wants Jeff Hardy tonight. Kennedy says Hardy got lucky last week and the only reason he won was from being in the right place at the right time. Once again, Estrada grants his request and Kennedy tells Armando that it's nice to finally have a good man in charge. Estrada thanks Kennedy for the compliment and has a huge smile on his face as the shot goes back to the ring.

MATCH 3: BOBBY LASHLEY VS. CARLITO & PRIMO – ROYAL RUMBLE QUALIFYING MATCH (72%, 2.5*)
Lashley would take on Carlito & Primo next in a Handicap Royal Rumble Qualifier. Lashley came out of the gate strong and it led to each brother going in a cycle of taking a big move from Lashley, tagging out, and then getting hit with another move. Carlito & Primo alternated tags about 5 times in the first few minutes before Primo got Referee Mike Chioda turned around, allowing his brother to poke Lashley in the eye. Carlito then got to work and pulled off some nice moves, including a springboard back elbow, knocking Lashley down. Primo was tagged in and also hit a slingshot somersault senton only to get a near-fall. The brothers controlled the middle portion of the match as the numbers game was getting to Lashley. The match ended when Carlito went for a 'Backstabber' but Lashley held onto the top rope and Carlito crashed to the mat. Primo quickly reached over the ropes and tagged in. He went to the top rope to hit a missile dropkick but Lashley swatted him away. Lashley then caught a charging Carlito, who got back to his feet, with a spinebuster. As Carlito rolled out to the floor, Lashley set up in the corner and nailed Primo with a spear to get the win and qualify for the Royal Rumble.
WINNER: BOBBY LASHLEY VIA PINFALL IN 9:58

BACKSTAGE BRAWL (75%)
After Lashley's win, the camera goes to JR and King as they are getting ready to do a rundown on the Royal Rumble. JR starts when he is abruptly cut off and the camera goes backstage where a brawl is taking place between The Renegades and Cryme Tyme. Many road agents and backstage staff come in to break it up as the two teams are yelling at each other. JR and King wonder how it started before going into the Rumble match card. The 30-Man Rumble, John Cena vs. Jeff Hardy for the WWE Title, and a newly added match of Beth Phoenix vs. Mickie James for the Women's Championship are shown on the screen as JR and King discuss over the graphics.

MATCH 4: CANDICE MICHELLE VS. MELINA (59%, 1*)
A second Women's match was on RAW as a returning Candice Michelle was looking to get her mojo back after losing her Women's Championship to Beth Phoenix at Armageddon. The two ladies traded some offense, with Candice hitting a flying clothesline and Melina a flipping neckbreaker. Candice used the corner to get up but she avoided a charging Melina and turned it into a rear mat slam. Candice appeared to be in the driver's seat when she twisted Melina around to hit the 'Candy Wrapper' but Melina rolled Candice from behind and grabbed the tights. Referee Jack Doan was none the wiser and Melina stole a victory on Monday Night RAW. Melina rubbed it in as she had her hand raised going up the ramp and Candice looked frustrated of losing in her return.
WINNER: MELINA VIA PINFALL IN 6:15

PRE-MATCH MEETING (88%)
The camera cuts to Cody Rhodes and Triple H discussing the 6-Man Tag in the locker room. Moments later, WWE Champ, John Cena walks in and the three go over what they plan on doing to Legacy. Triple H makes a point to mention that Orton has been on a path of destruction and that it's time to end it tonight. Hunter fires up Cody by bringing up when Orton punted his father and Cody gets psyched while Cena gets his game face on.

MATCH 5: JEFF HARDY VS. MR. KENNEDY (79%, 2*)
The Semi-Main Event saw Mr. Kennedy looking to prove himself against the #1 Contender to the WWE Championship, Jeff Hardy. Hardy was hot out the gate, hitting his arsenal of flashy moves like the 'Hardyac Arrest' corner dropkick. Hardy would also hit his signature double leg drop across Kennedy's midsection. After going outside to get a breather, Kennedy turned the tables when he moved out of the way of a Hardy barricade dive. Kennedy controlled the action from there, driving Hardy's back into the apron and then suplexing him on the ground. Hardy's body made a thud as it hit the arena floor and Kennedy rolled him back in the ring to do some damage. Kennedy started grinding the point of his elbow across Jeff's face and then hit a nasty knee lift. Kennedy then decided to go to the top and try and hit a 'Kenton Bomb.' Kennedy was obviously trying to pour salt in the wounds by hitting Hardy with his own move but Hardy moved and Kennedy was left holding his back. Hardy got to his feet first and kicked Kennedy in the gut. He tried a 'Twist of Fate' but Kennedy countered into a 'Mic Check' attempt. Hardy was able to then counter that and take a page out of his brother's book with a 'Side Effect.' Hardy removed his shirt and went to the top rope to hit a 'Swanton Bomb' to score the victory in a competitive contest.
WINNER: JEFF HARDY VIA PINFALL IN 11:50

DOUBLE TROUBLE IN THE RUMBLE (78%)
The camera cuts backstage to Intercontinental Champion, Drew McIntyre, who has caught up with his mentor, William Regal, to let him know that he spoke with new RAW GM, Armando Alejandro Estrada. McIntyre says he has thrown his name into the Royal Rumble hat. Regal looked a bit surprised at first but then mentioned that the duo can do some damage if they work in tandem and can be the final two when the dust settles. McIntyre likes the sound of that as Regal smirks.

***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 6: LEGACY [RANDY ORTON, TED DIBIASE JR. & JOE HENNIG] VS. JOHN CENA, TRIPLE H & CODY RHODES (76%, 1.5*)
The much anticipated 6-Man Tag Team Main Event was next and Legacy entered first to a remixed theme of Randy Orton's 'Burn In My Light.' Rhodes, Triple H, and then the champ, John Cena made their way out and the match was on. Standard tag team action in this contest as Orton stayed out of the fray for the majority of the match. DiBiase Jr. and Hennig did some good work in the ring but also took their lumps from all three opposing men. The action then picked up when Orton tagged himself in after Rhodes nailed Hennig with a springboard roundhouse kick. Rhodes would end up clotheslining Orton over the top rope and it led to all 6 men fighting on the outside. Cena was occupied by DiBiase Jr. while Triple H was with Hennig. Orton and Rhodes made their way back into the ring and Cody hit Orton with a diving crossbody off the top rope. Rhodes got a near-fall and as the others continued to brawl, Cena and DiBiase Jr. up the ramp and HHH/Hennig through the crowd, Rhodes looked to hit 'Cross Rhodes.' Cody got Orton in position but somehow Orton reversed it into an 'RKO.' Orton would make the cover and get a big win for Legacy.
WINNERS: LEGACY VIA PINFALL IN 13:11

LEGACY STANDS TALL (87%)
Orton begins to celebrate the win when DiBiase Jr. and Hennig make their way back to the ring. Cena and Triple H get to Cody and then help Rhodes up the ramp while looking back into the ring to see Legacy raise their arms up in the air, Orton being in the center as RAW comes to a close.



#1 CONTENDER'S MATCH TONIGHT! (79%)
After the ECW Intro, Joey Styles and Tazz welcome the audience in. A graphic is then shown as current Hardcore Champion, Chavo Guerrero will take on Elijah Burke in a #1 Contender's Match to see who will fight CM Punk at the Royal Rumble for the ECW Championship.

MATCH 1: SUPER CRAZY VS. SHANNON MOORE (68%, 2.5*)
Cruiserweight action started the night on ECW as the new man to the brand, Super Crazy, took on Smackdown!'s Shannon Moore. Styles mentions that both men have entered the Cruiserweight Open that will happen at the Royal Rumble. Both men were able to showcase their high-flying ability as Moore hit a diving hurricanrana from the top rope and Crazy, a corkscrew plancha to Moore on the outside. The ending came when Moore tried to hit a springboard crossbody but Crazy countered with a dropkick to Moore as he was mid-flight. Crazy then finished Moore off with the 'Trifecta Moonsault,' hitting a moonsault from each turnbuckle in succession to get the win.
WINNER: SUPER CRAZY VIA PINFALL IN 7:53

CHAVO CALLS HIS SHOT (76%)
Chavo Guerrero is backstage with interviewer, Rosa Mendez, and Rosa asks Chavo for his thoughts on tonight's Main Event. Chavo says that he's been on ECW for a month and has done nothing but win. Chavo says maybe getting away from the toxicity of his “family” was for the best. Chavo thinks it may have been weighing him down. Chavo says that tonight he takes down Elijah Burke and sets his sights on collecting all the ECW gold.

MATCH 2: PAUL BURCHILL VS. STEVIE RICHARDS – ROYAL RUMBLE QUALIFYING MATCH (67%, 1.5*)
Another Rumble qualifier was next as Paul Burchill took on Stevie Richards. Stevie tried to hang with 'The Ripper' but Burchill was just too much. Stevie was able to mount a small rally in the middle of the match and even hit a superkick to Burchill's face but it just got the Brit pissed off and Burchill charged to floor Richards with a lariat. Burchill then hit his 'Curb Stomp' to qualify for the Rumble.
WINNER: PAUL BURCHILL VIA PINFALL IN 4:00

A SIGN OF THINGS TO COME? (83%)
After the win, Burchill had his hand raised but pulled away from the ref. He started to kick Richards and then picked him up and threw him over the top rope. Burchill did a hand gesture like he just threw the trash out but to his surprise JOHNNY NITRO was in the ring and threw Burchill out over the top rope. Burchill was irate as he turned around to look at Nitro. Nitro challenged him back in the ring and when Burchill bluffed and backed off, Nitro smirked and the two talked smack to each other as Burchill backed up the ramp.

IT'S A MASTERPIECE (75%)
A graphic then shows that 'The Masterpiece' Chris Masters will square off with ECW Champion, CM Punk, on the last ECW before the Royal Rumble, next week!

***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 3: ELIJAH BURKE VS. CHAVO GUERRERO – #1 CONTENDER'S MATCH FOR THE ECW CHAMPIONSHIP (77%, 3*)
Chavo Guerrero was in the Main Event again as he took on Elijah Burke to see who would face CM Punk for the ECW Title at the Royal Rumble. Both men gave it their all in this one and the advantage shifted multiple times during the match. At one point Chavo attempted the 'Three Amigos' but going for the third one, Burke went up but landed on his feet behind Chavo before hitting a German Suplex. Burke then hit shoulder thrusts in the corner and with Chavo on the mat below, Burke went for his 'Outer Limitz Elbow' but Chavo got his knees up and it resulted in Burke clutching his elbow. Tazz then brought up that Burke had an injury to the same arm a couple of months ago. Chavo then zeroed in on the arm and locked in the 'Loco Lock,' a cross-legged inverted STF. Burke fought to the ropes and Chavo was frustrated. Burke rolled out to the apron and Chavo tried to suplex him back into the ring but Burke blocked it. Burke then leaped over Chavo and almost got a three-count on a sunset flip pin. Burke then controlled the action and backed Chavo into the corner. Chavo poked his head outside and Referee Scott Armstrong backed Burke up. When Burke came back over, Chavo pulled him by his trunks and Burke hit his face off the middle turnbuckle. Chavo then rolled up Burke and put his feet on the ropes for leverage without Armstrong seeing to steal the win. Chavo rolled out of the ring and celebrated as Burke tried to indicate that Chavo was cheating by grabbing and pointing at the ropes. Chavo smirks as he will get a title shot at the Royal Rumble.
WINNER: CHAVO GUERRERO VIA PINFALL IN 11:16



THE WRESTLING GOD! (87%)
Smackdown! kicks off with a look back to last week when JBL won the 6-Pack Challenge to earn a shot to face 'Y2J' Chris Jericho at the Royal Rumble for the World Heavyweight Championship. After the intro, a graphic pops up showing that Jericho will host 'The Highlight Reel' tonight with JBL as his guest. Also tonight, MVP vs. Kane, and Rey Mysterio vs. Edge.

MATCH 1: THE RATED-R ENTOURAGE © [CURT HAWKINS & ZACK RYDER] VS. THE HART DYNASTY [TJ WILSON & DH SMITH] W/NATALYA NEIDHART – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP (60%, 0.5*)
The opening contest was for the WWE Tag Team Championship as The Rated-R Entourage (Hawkins & Ryder) defended against The Hart Dynasty (Wilson & Smith). Natayla Neidhart was also cheering her boys on from ringside. The match was a pretty standard tag team contest where Hawkins & Ryder isolated Wilson for a good bit before he made his comeback and made the hot tag to the big man, DH Smith. Around the 9-minute mark, it appeared Smith was going to put things away when VICTORIA came out of nowhere and attacked Natayla. This caused The Hart Dynasty to get distracted and led to Ryder pushing Smith into Wilson, knocking TJ off the apron, and then rolling up Smith from behind to steal the win. Wilson then attended to Natayla as Victoria walked back up the ramp. What was the cause for the attack???
WINNERS: THE RATED-R ENTOURAGE VIA PINFALL IN 9:47

UP FOR THE CHALLENGE (70%)
Cruiserweight Champion, The Amazing Red, is backstage with Josh Mathews and Mathews asks him about the Cruiserweight Open that will happen at the Royal Rumble. Mathews mentions what a challenge it will be to defend the title against multiple superstars. Red says he's thankful to be able to have a chance to show what he's got on the big stage and says that he knows everyone else is going to bring their A-Game. Red continues but is cut off when Sonny Siaki comes into frame. Siaki says Red's days as champ are numbered and that the world is going to see just how good Siaki is next Sunday. The two get face-to-face but no blows are thrown.

MATCH 2: JAMIE NOBLE VS. JIMMY WANG YANG (71%, 3*)
A rematch from a couple of weeks ago was the next contest as Jamie Noble took on Jimmy Wang Yang. Noble called Yang's win a “fluke” and now needs to get his win back or else he would be forced to start the Cruiserweight Open at the Royal Rumble, via Teddy Long. Good back-and-forth in the beginning as Yang hit Noble with a monkey flip and then later a spinning wheel kick. After missing a move while charging into the corner, Yang lost control of the match and Noble grounded him. Noble would apply his old 'Trailer Hitch' submission but Yang scratched and clawed his way to a rope break. Noble then lifted Yang in a Fireman's carry and hit a double knee gutbuster. This looked to be the finish but Yang bounced near the ropes after the impact and just grabbed the bottom rope before Referee Charles Robinson got to 3. Noble couldn't believe it and he set Yang on the top rope. Noble attempted a superplex but Yang blocked and pushed him off the ropes. Noble stayed on his feet and went for it a second time but this time Yang booted Noble in the face, sending him stumbling toward the middle of the ring. When Noble turned around and charged again, Yang impressively adjusted to hit his 'Yang Time' moonsault on Noble. Landing right on Noble in a pinning position, Yang would get the three-count as Noble was unable to squirm out. Yang rolled out of the ring as Noble couldn't believe it and tried to hit him post-match. Yang would get his hand raised on the ramp as Noble threw a tantrum in the ring, kicking the ropes.
WINNER: JIMMY WANG YANG VIA PINFALL IN 8:31

NON-PREFERENTIAL TREATMENT (90%)
A camera cuts backstage as Smackdown! GM Teddy Long is chilling in his office when MVP and Kristal come barging in. MVP is irate with Long because Teddy has booked him in a match against 'The Big Red Machine' Kane for tonight. Kristal chimes in and says it's been months since the wedding and that Teddy has to get over it. Kristal adds that it's clear that Teddy is treating MVP unfairly and Teddy chuckles and tells both of them to “cry me a river.” MVP points in Teddy's face before leaving and says that he's gonna pay for this.

TITLE SHOT (80%)
A graphic then pops up showing that Layla will get a shot at the Divas Championship against Michelle McCool after pinning her in a tag team match last week. This match will take place next week, 2 nights before the Royal Rumble.

MATCH 3: ASHLEY MASSARO VS. TALIA MADISON (53%, 0.5*)
The third match of the night featured a heated rivalry between Ashley Massaro and Talia Madison. Talia has been relentless when it comes to Ashley after losing a Divas Championship Tournament Match a couple of months back. As soon as Ashley hit the ring, the two charged each other and Massaro hit a Thesz Press. The two began to roll around and each got some time in top position to hit some strikes. Eventually, it spilled to the floor and Ashley whipped Talia into the barricade. At this point, Referee Jimmy Korderas was at a count of 7 and both ladies started fighting up the ramp, which led to a double countout. Korderas called for the bell and then started heading over to break it up but just before the two ladies got to the top of the stage, Talia would fling Ashley off the side of the ramp, causing her to crash hard on the floor below after a nasty-looking fall. Ashley rolled around in agony as Korderas and then some backstage staff came out to help her get to her feet. Talia was left smirking on the stage to end the segment.
RESULT: DOUBLE COUNTOUT IN 4:08

THE MOSCOW MAULER (85%)
Another hype package plays for Kozlov, 'The Moscow Mauler.' The video sprinkles highlights of him beating up on Batista and also shows some more footage of him in the gym. Kozlov voices over this video and says he's going for “total domination.”

MATCH 4: MVP W/KRISTAL VS. KANE (80%, 2.5*)
MVP would take on 'The Big Red Machine' Kane next...even though he really didn't want to. The first couple minutes of the match saw MVP dodge strikes from Kane and then after catching Kane with a right, which Kane no-sold and gave an intimidating look, MVP comically exited the ring. MVP talked with Kristal as Kane had enough of the stalling and went out to chase him. MVP then hid behind Kristal and Kristal shrieked before running away. When Kane slid back into the ring, MVP was waiting with an elbow drop. MVP then controlled the match for a brief stint, locking in a submission on a seated Kane. MVP placed a knee in the back of Kane as he pulled back both arms. After about 30 seconds, Kane started to stir and got to his feet with the crowd behind him. Kane then turned it into a sidewalk slam and got a near-fall. Kane then raised his hand up, signaling a chokeslam but MVP dropped down and went out of the ring again. MVP grabbed Kristal's hand and waved that he had enough. MVP started walking up the ramp but Kane came out to get him and despite Kristal yelling warnings, MVP didn't turn around and Kane grabbed him and threw him back in the ring. MVP charged at Kane when he tried to get back in the ring over the top rope but Kane caught him by the throat and shoved him down. MVP got up again a ducked a Kane clothesline attempt but after coming off the ropes, Kane nailed MVP with a big boot. Kane then signaled for the chokeslam again and this time he would hit it to get the win. Kane was satisfied with his work as Kristal checked on her man post-match.
WINNER: KANE VIA PINFALL IN 10:54

THE HIGHLIGHT REEL (98%)
“Break The Walls Down” hit and the World Champ, Chris Jericho made his entrance. The ring was all set up for another edition of 'The Highlight Reel' and Jericho began by hyping the crowd up. He then went to his 'Jeri-Tron 5000' and showed a replay of the finish to last week's 6-Pack Challenge where JBL got the win. Y2J says that he doesn't like JBL but he got the job done and now he will have to defend the World Title against him in just 9 days at the Royal Rumble. Jericho then introduces JBL and “Longhorn” vibrates around the arena. JBL, in a suit with his classic white cowboy hat, enters into the ring and then grabs a mic. JBL starts by saying he and Jericho are not that much different, which gets a confused face out of Y2J. JBL explains that both of them just couldn't stay away from the ring and the quest to be the best. JBL says while his return hasn't been as fruitful as Y2J's, he's going to change that next Sunday. Jericho laughs at the notion of them being alike and says it's not even close because JBL is a self-centered, egotistical prick. This gets a rise out of JBL and the crowd starts chanting the vulgarity while Jericho laughs. JBL says he wasn't finished because while the two of them are alike in their love for the business, JBL says Y2J can't hold a candle to the 'Wrestling God.' Jericho asks is that so and he and JBL talk over each other a bit before JBL says that after the Rumble, Jericho is gonna wish he stuck to his sorry excuse for what he calls a rock band. The two then toss their mics and get nose-to-nose. Jericho lifts up the World Title and JBL eventually backs off but he was bluffing and he hits a 'Clothesline From Hell.' JBL starts yelling at Jericho before picking him up and throwing him head-first into his 'Jeri-Tron 5000.' Glass shatters and goes everywhere and Y2J is bleeding badly from his head. As Jericho rolls around in agony, possibly trying to remove pieces of glass from his head and eyes, JBL grabs the World Title and stands over Jericho to end the segment.

CRASH LANDING (90%)
After returning from a commercial break, a replay of what just happened on 'The Highlight Reel' rolls and is then followed by a video recap of 'The Animal' Batista spearing 'The World's Strongest Man' Mark Henry off the stage last week. Michael Cole and Ernest 'The Cat' Miller give their thoughts and Cole touches on the fact that not only did they fall a good height off the stage but they also went through a ton of tables. Cat added that it was one of the damnedest things he ever saw.

***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 5: REY MYSTERIO VS. EDGE W/HAWKINS & RYDER (87%, 3*)
The Main Event took place next as Rey Mysterio faced off against Edge, who had his Rated-R Entourage with him at ringside. The two traded some chain moves to start with Mysterio getting the upper hand, using his luchador background to hit a nice arm drag. Mysterio would then hit a wheelbarrow bulldog and the action was fast-paced. Rey would go out to the apron but Hawkins & Ryder walked over to distract him. This allowed Edge to body check Mysterio off the apron and Rey crashed face-first off the barricade. Edge then distracted Senior Referee Nick Patrick, allowing Hawkins & Ryder to put a few boots to Mysterio. When Patrick turned around, Hawkins & Ryder put their hands up, signaling that they didn't do anything. Edge got Mysterio back in the ring and hit a 'Downward Spiral' to get a near-fall. Edge then grounded Rey, applying a chinlock. When Rey started to gain momentum, Edge shut it down with an 'Edge-O-Matic.' After a near-fall, Edge started to get frustrated and set up in the corner for a Spear but Mysterio leaped over the attempt and rolled up Edge with an insane pinning combo. Edge just kicked out and the crowd let out a gasp as they thought Rey had it. Edge charged at Rey again but this time Rey sent Edge into '619' position with a drop-toe hold. Mysterio went off the ropes to hit a '619' but Curt Hawkins jumped on the apron and shielded his leader, taking the impact. Mysterio was a bit confused and had a slight delay before proceeding with the second part of his finisher. Instead, Edge was on his feet so Mysterio sprung off the ropes in what was probably going to be an attempt to hit a seated senton but Edge caught him in mid-air with a SPEAR!!! The crowd popped as Edge made the cover to win in the Smackdown! Main Event. Ryder came into the ring to celebrate with Edge and as replays were shown and then Hawkins was helped into the ring as the trio stood tall to end the show.
WINNER: EDGE VIA PINFALL IN 12:15

RAW INTRO (83%)
“To Be Loved” hits as the RAW Intro plays. After the explosion of the opening pyro, Jim Ross and Jerry 'The King' Lawler welcome us in. A graphic pops up with a couple of big matches announced for tonight. Randy Orton will go 1-on-1 with Cody Rhodes and we will have a 'Champion vs. Champion' match as WWE Champ, John Cena, takes on Intercontinental Champion, Drew McIntyre.

MATCH 1: CRYME TYME [SHAD & JTG] VS. THE RENEGADES [LANCE CADE & CHRIS HARRIS] – TORNADO TAG (65%, 1*)
Also scheduled was the first contest of the night, a tornado tag team match between Cryme Tyme and The Renegades. This stems from their backstage confrontation last week and the two teams have been at odds in recent times. This one was a chaotic contest as after a couple of minutes in the ring, both teams fought outside for the majority of the contest. Highlights included Cade sending Shad face-first into the ring post, JTG going off the top rope to take both Renegades out on the floor below, and Shad countering a clothesline attempt from Harris and flipping him over the barricade into the timekeeper's area. After the latter event, Shad was able to hit a big boot to Cade in the ring. When Cade used the ropes to get up, JTG would charge at him, jump up to the middle turnbuckle, and hit the 'Mug Shot' facebuster to get the win. As Cryme Tyme celebrated, Harris got up from behind the barricade and smacked it when he realized Cade lost the match.
WINNERS: CRYME TYME VIA PINFALL IN 9:51

A BUMP IN THE RHODES (81%)
RAW Acting General Manager, Armando Alejandro Estrada is then shown in his office with an unlit Cuban cigar in his mouth. Cody Rhodes then walks in and asks Estrada what he wanted to see him for. Estrada said that Cody wanted to enter himself in the Royal Rumble, and Cody confirmed that was the case. However, Estrada said that Rhodes didn't impress him last week, so for tonight's match vs. Randy Orton, if Rhodes doesn't win, he will NOT be in this year's Royal Rumble. Rhodes is shocked by the announcement and walks out of frame as Estrada laughs to himself.

HHH HYPE PACKAGE (90%)
Returning from a commercial break, one man who is entering the Royal Rumble is former winner, 'The Game' Triple H. A video package of Hunter's Rumble highlights play, culminating with when he won the match in 2002. Triple H will be in the 2008 Royal Rumble Match!!!

MATCH 2: BETH PHOENIX & MARYSE VS. MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY (58%, 1*)
Another tag team match was next as Women's Champion, 'The Glamazon' Beth Phoenix, teamed with Maryse to take on Mickie James and Kelly Kelly. It was also announced that Phoenix would defend her title against Mickie James at the Royal Rumble. This was a pretty standard tag match as everyone got some offense in. Phoenix was controlling Kelly Kelly for the second week in a row when Kelly Kelly was able to hit a tornado DDT. This led to Mickie James getting a hot tag and Maryse getting tagged in as well. Mickie was on fire against Maryse and took her down with a Thesz Press before laying in some rights. Mickie then got setup to hit a 'Mick Kick' but Beth tried to get back in the ring to break it up. However, Kelly Kelly ran into the ring and tackled Beth. This allowed Mickie to hit the kick to Maryse's head and pick up the win. Mickie and Kelly Kelly celebrated the win as Phoenix grabbed her belt and walked backward up the ramp.
WINNERS: MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY VIA PINFALL IN 6:24

KENNEDY COULD CARE LESS (77%)
The camera cuts backstage to Todd Grisham who has Paul London & Brian Kendrick with him. Grisham asked the duo what they wanted to talk about and hinted that they had some news to break. London & Kendrick then talk about how they spoke with Smackdown! GM, Theodore Long, and was granted a chance to compete in this Sunday's Cruiserweight Open at the Royal Rumble! Moments later, Mr. Kennedy walks into the picture and slowly claps. Kennedy sarcastically calls it a blockbuster announcement and says no one cares. Kennedy says what everyone cares about is Mr. Kennedy in the Royal Rumble and going onto WrestleMania to become the NEW WWE CHAMPION! London & Kendrick find offense in Kennedy's interruption and Kendrick challenges him to a match tonight. Kennedy laughs before realizing Kendrick is serious and accepts.

ANOTHER BACKSTAGE ASSAULT (77%)
RAW was back from a break, ready for the 'Champion vs. Champion' Match when all of a sudden the camera shifts backstage. It's Lance Cade attacking Trevor Murdoch. Murdoch is trying to fight back but Cade throws him into a production crate. Backstage staff start to come into the area and it appears Cade is backing off. Murdoch is starting to get to his feet, using the crate to get up. All of a sudden, Cade comes back into the frame with a steel chair and smashed Murdoch's arm, which was resting on the crate. Murdoch screams in agony and holds his arm as road agents finally get Cade out of the way. JR exclaims that the chair shot may have broken Murdoch's arm.

MATCH 3: JOHN CENA VS. DREW MCINTYRE W/WILLIAM REGAL (77%, 1*)
'Champion vs. Champion' was next and Drew McIntyre made his way to the ring with William Regal before “My Time Is Now” hit and the crowd got on their feet for John Cena. The match was pretty even and McIntyre impressed, getting some solid offense on the WWE Champ, including a snap suplex, and a dropdown neckbreaker across his knee. Surprisingly, Regal didn't get involved until Cena mounted a comeback and hit his signature shoulder tackles, followed by the spin out powerbomb. Cena hit the '5-Knuckle Shuffle' and then got set up for an 'F-U' and that's when Regal tried to intervene. Cena flipped Regal into the ring over the ropes and Regal hit the mat hard. Cena then hit McIntyre with an 'F-U' but when he went to pin Drew, Regal broke it up and got McIntyre intentionally disqualified.
WINNER: JOHN CENA VIA DQ IN 10:42

HARDY FOR THE SAVE! (89%)
Post-match, Regal started stomping away at Cena and eventually, McIntyre recovered from the 'F-U' to team up for a beatdown. Regal then held a kneeling Cena's arms back as he tossed Drew the brass knuckles. Just before McIntyre was going to swing, Jeff Hardy ran into the ring and knocked down McIntyre. Regal let go of Cena and charged at Hardy but Hardy kicked him in the gut and nailed a 'Twist of Fate.' McIntyre retreated from the ring and pulled Regal out as Hardy assisted Cena in getting up. Hardy was given the WWE Title by the timekeeper and there was a brief tense moment where Hardy held the title as Cena looked. Hardy then gave it to Cena and John nodded his head and thanked Hardy for having his back.

RUMBLE REPLACEMENT (74%)
Back from a commercial break, the camera went to a shot of Armando Alejandro Estrada behind his desk. Estrada said that after the attack earlier tonight that Lance Cade gave to Trevor Murdoch, an X-Ray has determined that Murdoch has been diagnosed with a fractured arm and will not be cleared to compete in the Royal Rumble. Estrada then says his replacement will be...Lance Cade. JR is disgusted about this reveal and King has to calm him down.

MATCH 4: MR. KENNEDY VS. BRIAN KENDRICK W/PAUL LONDON (74%, 2*)
Mr. Kennedy then took on Brian Kendrick in singles action. Paul London accompanied his tag team partner to ringside and at one point when both men were outside, Kennedy was provoking London by bouncing Kendrick's head off the apron in front of him. Kendrick would then use his fast-paced style to turn the tide in the match when Kennedy whipped him into the corner. Kennedy charged at Kendrick but Kendrick jumped up on the turnbuckle and did a backflip over an incoming Kennedy. Kendrick then went off the ropes and caught Kennedy with a leg lariat to knock him down. With London pounding the mat, trying to hype his partner, Kendrick went to the top rope and hit the 'Left Turn From Albuquerque' turning frog splash. Kennedy just barely kicked out and the crowd reacted to what they thought was going to be a big upset. Kendrick then got Kennedy to his feet and went for 'Sliced Bread #2' but Kennedy threw Kendrick off as he transitioned off the ropes. Kennedy then got him up to hit the 'Mic Check' and spoil the upset bid.
WINNER: MR. KENNEDY VIA PINFALL IN 9:55

LEGACY LOCKER ROOM CONFERENCE (78%)
Legacy is then shown in their locker room presumably going over the plan for tonight's Main Event where Randy Orton takes on Cody Rhodes. Ted DiBiase Jr. and Joe Hennig are nodding their heads to whatever Orton is saying, which is inaudible to the audience.

LASHLEY LOOKS AHEAD TO THE RUMBLE (79%)
Todd Grisham is then shown standing by with Bobby Lashley. Grisham asks Bobby about his thoughts going into the Royal Rumble and Lashley says he's focused, he's ready, and it will be his moment when he outlasts 29 other men to go onto WrestleMania. Lashley looks locked in as he leaves the interview area.

***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 5: RANDY ORTON W/TED DIBIASE JR. & JOE HENNIG VS. CODY RHODES (75%, 1*)
Randy Orton took on Cody Rhodes next and for Rhodes, the stakes were high as a loss would keep him from entering this year's Royal Rumble. The two rivals traded control of the match in the beginning until Orton caught an overzealous Rhodes with a scoop powerslam. Orton then dissected Rhodes from limb to limb, stomping on every part of Rhodes' body as he circled around him. Orton hit a jumping knee drop and after a near-fall, applied a chin lock. Rhodes would get to his feet and adjust into hitting Orton with a Russian legsweep. With both men down, the crowd started chanting for Cody as DiBiase and Hennig yelled at the crowd to stop. Rhodes then lined up and sprung off the ropes to hit his springboard roundhouse kick. Rhodes went for the cover and got a close near-fall. Rhodes then stalked Orton but DiBiase and Hennig decided to get involved. Hennig distracted Referee Mike Chioda as DiBiase tossed a chair into the ring. Orton picked it up and swung at Rhodes but Cody ducked it and kicked Orton in the gut. The noise of the chair hitting the ground alerted Chioda and he turned to see the chair in the ring. At the same time, he grabbed it to get it out of the ring, Orton ducked a flying crossbody attempt by Rhodes, and Chioda was taken out. Once this happened all of Legacy beat down Rhodes in the ring until “The Game” by Motorhead hit and Triple H ran down to the ring with a sledgehammer. Hunter nailed the chair out of DiBiase's hand before blasting Hennig in the ribs. Orton then tried to hit Triple H from behind but HHH booted him in the midsection and hit a 'Pedigree.' Triple H then ran off DiBiase & Hennig as Rhodes crawled to cover Orton. Chioda recovered and slowly counted to 3 to give Rhodes a huge upset win.
WINNER: CODY RHODES VIA PINFALL IN 11:02

CLEANING HOUSE (92%)
Cody Rhodes has qualified for the Royal Rumble and as his music starts playing, Triple H enters the ring and helps him up. The two shake hands and then watch as Orton starts getting to his feet. Triple H then grabbed Orton and threw him over the top rope, a prelude to Sunday's Rumble Match. The rest of Legacy came back down the ramp to help Orton up as Triple H gave the trio a crotch chop to end the show.



CHAVO GLOATS (86%)
After a replay of last week's Main Event is shown, the music of Chavo Guerrero hits, and the winner of the aforementioned match came down. Chavo spent his walk down to the ring provoking some members of the audience. Chavo then gets the mic and is all smiles as he proceeds to gloat about beating Elijah Burke last week. Chavo says on Sunday that he will beat CM Punk to become the ECW Champion. The crowd is relentless with boos and Chavo laughs and says by the way, that will make him a double champion. Chavo says the crowd can boo them all they want but after the Rumble, they are going to have no choice but to respect Chavo as he will hold all the gold.

MATCH 1: TOMMY DREAMER & THE SANDMAN VS. BIG DADDY V VS. MATT STRIKER – ROYAL RUMBLE QUALIFYING MATCH (62%, 1*)
The opening contest is a tag team contest where the winning team would be added to the Royal Rumble field. It had been a while since the ECW crowd saw Big Daddy V with Matt Striker and the big man controlled the start of the match. Sandman and Dreamer failed in multiple turns trying to get the upper-hand on Big Daddy V and tried to get Striker to tag in but the teacher was satisfied with his pupil doing all the work. Eventually, Striker tagged in when Sandman was seated in his corner but Striker missed a running splash as Sandman moved after elbowing Big Daddy V, escaping his grasp. Sandman knocked Striker down and tagged in Dreamer who charged at Big Daddy V and dropkicked him off the apron. After the big man splatted on the ground, Dreamer turned his attention to Striker, who was pleading for Dreamer to not hit him. Striker backed up right into Sandman who punched him in the face and then Dreamer hit his signature DDT to get the win. Dreamer and Sandman are now in the Rumble!
WINNERS: TOMMY DREAMER & THE SANDMAN VIA PINFALL IN 6:44

HAVE A NICE DAY! (81%)
ECW General Manager, Mick Foley, is shown in his office when Elijah Burke comes in. Burke, who still looks to be disappointed from last week, asks Foley what he wanted to see him for. Foley says that ECW has one more open spot in the Rumble to fill and that Burke deserves to be in the match. Elijah is ecstatic and thanks Foley. Mick then says that he spoke with Teddy Long and worked out a deal to have Burke face MVP on Smackdown! this Friday Night. Burke says he's appreciative of the opportunity and Foley mentions that his shift in attitude is what he likes to see in a top star.

MATCH 2: NUNZIO VS. FUNAKI (68%, 2*)
Cruiserweight action was next on ECW as Nunzio took on Smackdown!'s Funaki. Both men would be in Sunday's Cruiserweight Open and gave everyone a small preview of what's to come. While the contest was only a short 5 minutes, both men got some quick offense in. The match ended with Funaki trying to hit a missile dropkick from the top. Funaki whiffed and Nunzio hit the 'Sicilian Slice' leg drop bulldog to pick up the win.
WINNER: NUNZIO VIA PINFALL IN 5:06

CONFIDENCE, NOT ARROGANCE (85%)
The camera shifted to Rosa Mendez who was backstage with Johnny Nitro. Nitro is asked about the Royal Rumble and he says that he is going to put on a show because he is the biggest rising star in the WWE. Mendez asks if Nitro thinks that's arrogant and Nitro refutes that sentiment and says when you can back it up, it's not arrogance. Nitro says that's called confidence and on Friday Night, he will show how good he is when he beats Rey Mysterio on Smackdown! Another blockbuster for the final show before the Royal Rumble.

***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 3: CM PUNK VS. CHRIS MASTERS (70%, 1.5*)
The ECW Champ, CM Punk took on 'The Masterpiece' Chris Masters in the Main Event. An open matchup between the two that went around the 10-minute mark. Masters was able to ground Punk for a bit but the ever-resilient champ countered a 'Masterlock' attempt by sliding out and turning it into a pin attempt, getting a near-fall. When both men got to their feet, Punk connected with a roundhouse kick to the face before putting away Masters with the 'GTS.' Punk would get the win heading into his ECW Championship defense at the Royal Rumble.
WINNER: CM PUNK VIA PINFALL IN 9:13

READY TO RUMBLE (81%)
As Punk celebrated his win, Chavo Guerrero walked down to ringside. Chavo didn't get in the ring but taunted Punk to the point where Masters was able to recover. Masters then caught Punk and locked in the 'Masterlock.' Chavo then got in the ring and talked trash as Punk flailed around, trying to escape. Moments later Tommy Dreamer and Sandman came running down and now all 4 men were brawling in the ring. Paul Burchill, Johnny Nitro, and Elijah Burke would all then hit the ring, filling it up with action. Dreamer and Sandman would then clothesline Masters and Burchill, respectively, along with themselves, over the top rope on opposite sides. Burke would throw Nitro over the top rope, causing Nitro to flip out on the outside. Then lost in all the chaos was Chavo trying to get a cheap shot on Burke, only to be denied and fall into the clutches of a 'GTS' by CM Punk. Punk and Burke stood in the ring with everyone down around them to end the show.



GLASS SHATTERS (90%)
Smackdown! kicks off this week with a look back to 'The Highlight Reel' from last week when JBL threw Chris Jericho head-first through his 'Jeri-Tron 5000.' Y2J will defend his World Championship against JBL at the Royal Rumble but will he be at 100% after being lacerated and having glass in his eye after the attack?

MATCH 1: SONNY SIAKI VS. TJ WILSON (57%, 0.5*)
Sonny Siaki took on TJ Wilson in a cruiserweight contest as both men will be in Sunday's Cruiserweight Open. Cruiserweight champ, The Amazing Red, was watching at ringside scouting 2 of his many opponents. Wilson impressed, hitting a fisherman's neckbreaker and also a springboard elbow drop on Siaki. Siaki countered with a Samoan Drop and also a somersault leg drop. Siaki was focusing on Red too much and it allowed Wilson to hit an enziguri. Wilson then applied a Sharpshooter on Siaki and Siaki was left scrambling for the ropes. He eventually got there and pulled himself out of the ring. Wilson then tried to hit a diving hurricanrana to Siaki on the outside but Siaki used his strength to avoid going to the ground and basically powerbombed Wilson. Siaki rolled Wilson back in and got in Red's face to talk trash. Siaki got back in the ring and hit his 'Siakalypse Now' pumphandle driver to win the match. Post-match Red got in the ring to stand face-to-face with Siaki but Siaki backed down and mouthed that he'd see him on Sunday.
WINNER: SONNY SIAKI VIA PINFALL IN 7:08

GOING ABOVE THE GM (80%)
Smackdown! GM Teddy Long is in his office with assistant, Vickie Guerrero, when MVP and Kristal walk in. Long lets out a sigh and asks MVP what he wants. MVP tells Teddy that he knew he wouldn't let him enter the Royal Rumble Match so MVP took it upon himself to go to the Board of Directors to get a spot in the Rumble. Long laughs and says that MVP was going to get a spot because even though he doesn't like anything about him, he can't deny that he's a top superstar on Smackdown! MVP is a little confused but then thinks Teddy is being disingenuous because MVP went above him. Long just ignores it and tells him to get ready for his match against Elijah Burke. MVP says he's ready to send Burke packing back to ECW. MVP and Kristal leave as Long shakes his head.

IT'S MY YEAR! (82%)
The camera then cuts to Josh Mathews who is with the Rated-R Entourage. Mathews asks Edge how he is feeling a couple of nights away from the Royal Rumble and Edge goes on a rant. Edge declares that it is his year to headline WrestleMania. Hawkins & Ryder are hyping their leader up as he speaks and Edge says that in 2 nights, he will win the Royal Rumble and punch his ticket to the Main Event. Edge says he paid his dues and reiterates that he deserves it this year before walking off.

MATCH 2: MICHELLE MCCOOL © VS. LAYLA W/BROOKE – DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP (56%, 0.5*)
The Divas Championship was defended next as the champ, Michelle McCool, took on Layla. Layla picked up a pinfall victory over McCool in a tag team match to get this opportunity, and she had her partner in crime, Brooke, at ringside with her. McCool controlled the early part of the match, using her size advantage to power Layla into a gutwrench suplex. Layla was knocked to the outside and Brooke distracted Michelle, allowing Layla to hit her from behind. Layla then got the upper-hand in the match and after getting McCool back in the ring, she hit a low dropkick to a seated McCool. After a near fall, Layla tried to hit her 'Layout' neckbreaker but McCool reversed it into a backslide pin to get a near fall for herself. Both got to their feet and Michelle nailed Layla with a big boot. Sensing the match was getting away from her partner, Brooke tried to get involved but McCool would big boot her as well off the apron. Michelle got Layla up and hit her with the 'Wings of Love' to retain her Divas title.
WINNER: MICHELLE MCCOOL VIA PINFALL IN 8:29

INAUGURATION OF A NEW TERM (85%)
A video promo of JBL is shown next. JBL narrates over throwing Chris Jericho through his 'Jeri-Tron 5000.' JBL says he's proud of his work and that it's time the 'Wrestling God' gets some gold again. The video shows when JBL held the WWE Championship in 2004 and JBL doesn't hesitate to mention that he had the longest World Title reign in Smackdown! History. JBL says Sunday will be the “inauguration of a new term” on Smackdown!

MATCH 3: MVP W/KRISTAL VS. ELIJAH BURKE (71%, 2.5*)
Halfway through the show, MVP took on ECW's Elijah Burke. Burke started the match off hot, getting MVP off his game. MVP would then take counsel from Kristal on the outside and MVP made Referee Jimmy Korderas back Burke up before he got back in the ring. Burke continued his hot start by nailing MVP with a combo of strikes followed by a backbreaker/neckbreaker combo. Kristal then tried to distract Burke and it allowed MVP to get a cheap shot in. MVP then took control of the match and grounded Burke. MVP laid multiple knees into the back of a seated Burke and then went off the ropes and booted Burke in the face. MVP then pranced around and hit his 'Ballin' Elbow' but Burke kicked out at 2. MVP started to get frustrated but Kristal calmed him down and told him to stay on the attack. Burke used the corner to get up and MVP charged to hit the 'Player's Boot' but Burke moved and MVP got hung up on the top rope. Burke then hit MVP with an inverted T-Bone suplex out of the corner and MVP landed hard on his face. Burke then got MVP up and hit him with an arm wrench forward Russian legsweep he calls the 'Elijah Experience' to pick up the upset victory.
WINNER: ELIJAH BURKE VIA PINFALL IN 9:56

TOTAL DOMINATION (88%)
Another video promo from 'The Moscow Mauler' Kozlov is shown. Kozlov talks about needing a challenge and how the best challenge he can think of is debuting in the Royal Rumble Match. Kozlov says there will be “total domination” as he throws all 29 men over the top rope. Kozlov will be in the Royal Rumble Match!

MATCH 4: NATALYA NEIDHART VS. VICTORIA (60%, 1*)
Another women's contest was next as Natalya Neidhart took on Victoria. This match came about after Victoria returned to Smackdown! and attacked Natalya while she was at ringside for The Hart Dynasty's tag team title opportunity. The attack led to the Hart Dynasty losing and now Natalya was looking for revenge. A pop-up box showed up during Victoria's entrance as she cut a quick promo claiming she was going to take every “Diva” down in her path to become the champion. This was an open match as Natayla got some offense in, including a discus clothesline. Natayla controlled the match until Victoria played possum in the corner and booted Nattie in the face. Victoria then dropped Natalya face-first off the top turnbuckle and hit a snap suplex. Victoria then put Nattie away with her 'Black Widow' to get the win.
WINNER: VICTORIA VIA PINFALL IN 6:05

ROYAL RUMBLE RUNDOWN (86%)
Michael Cole and Ernest 'The Cat' Miller then give a rundown of the Royal Rumble on Sunday. Match graphics pop on the screen as The Amazing Red defends his Cruiserweight Title against 10 others in a Cruiserweight Open, 'Y2J' Chris Jericho defends his World Heavyweight Championship against 'The Wrestling God' JBL, and the 2008 Royal Rumble Match.

***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 5: REY MYSTERIO VS. JOHNNY NITRO (79%, 3*)
ECW's Johnny Nitro would get the Main Event spot on Smackdown! against Rey Mysterio. This ended up being a classic match as both men's styles really meshed. Mysterio pulled off a nice springboard arm drag to gain control of the match early but Nitro caught Mysterio with a dropkick after Mysterio tried a springboard crossbody. Nitro hit an STO backbreaker and followed it with a neckbreaker and then got a near fall after hitting a running shooting star press. Nitro then tried to pull off some more offense but Mysterio dropkicked his knee and Nitro landed on the ropes. Mysterio went off the ropes for a '619' but Nitro pulled himself out of the ring. Referee Nick Patrick stopped Mysterio from jumping on Nitro and put his head through the middle rope to get Nitro to get back in but Mysterio would jump over Patrick and land on Nitro with a somersault to the outside. Rey threw Nitro into the ring and then got on the apron to hit a springboard splash but Nitro got to his feet and snagged Rey off the ropes to slam him to the canvas. Nitro waited until Mysterio got to his feet and hit his springboard roundhouse kick that has been dubbed the 'Flying Chuck.' Nitro went for a pin but got a near fall and then dragged Mysterio near the corner. Nitro went for 'Starship Pain' but Mysterio moved and now both men were down. When both men got to their feet, Mysterio charged at Nitro, flipped up onto Nitro's shoulders, and turned into a tornado DDT. Nitro stumbled to his feet and Rey dropkicked Nitro into the ropes. Mysterio then hit the '619' and then finished it off with a springboard splash to win the awesome match.
WINNER: REY MYSTERIO VIA PINFALL IN 11:37

READY '2' RUMBLE (94%)
Mysterio starts celebrating his win when MVP comes out of nowhere and hits him from behind. MVP and Nitro start stomping away on Rey when Elijah Burke comes down to even the odds. Then more Rumble participants filled the ring as Finlay and Matt Hardy joined the fray. Then 'The World's Strongest Man' Mark Henry appeared and was back after the stage spear he took a couple of weeks ago. Henry got in the ring and started wrecking house when the pyro of Kane went off and “Slow Chemical” hit. Kane walked down to the ring and swatted off Finlay as he stepped over the top rope. “I Walk Alone” then hit and 'The Animal' Batista sprinted down to the ring. Batista went right for Henry and the two of them spilled to the outside. Edge then came from the crowd, leaping over the barricade to come into the ring and spear Kane, Hardy, and then Mysterio. Edge was standing tall when the lights went out and The Undertaker's gong went off. When the lights flipped on, Undertaker was in the ring and Edge turned around to a chokeslam. Taker would then throw Edge over the top rope and Batista got back in the ring. Taker and Batista stood face-to-face as the show went off the air.

Ok, you don't have CM Punk in Rumble (unless he's one of the surprise 6). But I totally see him losing the ECW title, because of Chavo's shenanigans, but winning RR and going into a long feud with Jericho.

So if it's not him, then who?

Now I see that I totally missed with my previous pick with Hardy, as he's already challenging Cena for the title, lol.

I'm puzzled.

Because you definitely need someone to dethrone Cena, as it's kinda stale in my opinion. But heel winning the RR and main event of WM? Would you go for it? Not sure.

I guess I would go with Batista, as everybody else in my opinion doesn't need it or not over enough.

Batista
John Cena
Chris Jericho
CM Punk
Beth Phoenix
Brian Kendrick although it's tricky
Kozlov with the most eliminations as it would help him be established threat pretty fast
Cody Rhodes as an iron man
Yeah, MVP would be right to be eliminated fast, it would be entertaining xD