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Post by Moore on Jul 29, 2024 22:37:52 GMT 1
I knew you wouldn't disappoint me and MVP would become Mr. MITB. Was he ready to become a World Champion? I don't know exactly, but we've had way worse in the last 15 years. I think I can speak for everyone when I say I loved seeing JBL go from a ladder through some tables. I hope Blue Meanie loved it too.
Pretty good finish in the Drew vs. Booker match, cementing Drew as a pretty good Intercontinental Champion. Yes, he won it sneakily, but he was tough throughout the match, beating Booker and deservingly so.
RIP Hall of Pain. I really wanted Henry to win, but I guess Big Show needed a Mania win in 2008, as he didn't had any by that time - I think. Btw, a Chokeslam on the stairs to someone as big as Henry sounds immense.
Mickie and Beth carried the division during that time and it made sense for them to have a relatively "lengthy" (for 2008 Diva standards) Mania match. I'd be ok with any result, really.
I admit I thought about The Rock! But I didn't think you'd pull it off and Samoa Joe would've been huge too... but well, THE ROCK! His pre-match promo is "vintage Rocky" as Cole would say it.
I can't say I'm not sad for Umaga. I get your point exactly, as Mania practically screams for a legend beating a monster heel. What's next for Estrada, though?
So, Batista isn't exactly an heel. I'm not really surprised because the build-up for Flair/HBK was similar, but I kinda expected Batista to really turn heel. Maybe he will, but not against Flair? The match was exactly what I thought it would, btw.
You made Dreamer's win way more meaningful than I thought you would. I thought it would be relatively clean and Gallows wouldn't have such an interference. When he did, I thought we'd see Sandman making a return (or maybe Taz) and cleaning house. But having Dreamer winning solo solidifies him a lot.
London was really an all-star scoring two falls in the tag team title match. I'm shocked that I got that one right. Sure, London and Kendrick deserve it, but I actually thought Cryme Tyme would win.
Edge vs. Undertaker was the best match in the card IRL. Seeing how it scored a 96% rating, I think it got pretty close from that in your save too. It's cool to see Kane back. I'm not sure if you'll make Taker vs. Edge last as long as WWE did in 2008. Specially as Jericho is the champion and Edge vs. Batista would also be relatively fresh.
Of course the babyface divas won the multi-diva tag match.
I honestly don't know how HHH and HBK never had a singles match at Mania and I honestly think Shawn's retirement should've been against Hunter. I loved your write-up and how you really made it feel like this was the MOTN. JR will surely be fined for phrasing the words "professional wrestling" post-match, tho.
Pretty amazing match finish in Rey Rey vs. Jericho too. Jericho is having a great title run, which I thought wouldn't be easy due to how stacked the SmackDown roster is, almost making him feel like a B+ player only. Well, not anymore. I can see Batista or Taker challenging him next... unless the draft is right next? Btw, I just noticed: a lot of feel-good post-match respect nods in this Mania. Cool, I guess, I'm not against it at all.
Oooh, the main event fell short in the rating category. I wasn't expecting it, but after so many bangers, it got hurt, I guess... or maybe it felt overbooked. I can't lie, any of the three previous bouts (well, not including the diva one, but Edge vs. Taker instead, of course) would sit better with me as the main event, tbh. I wouldn't turn Cody a heel in the main event of Mania, he was pretty much a rookie and not that important, but I get your point and I appreciate the bold move. Mania closing with a very rare heel win is almost groundbreaking. I'm not against it, though, as the good guys can't win all the time.
I think I'm not exaggerating when I say this is quite possibly the best show I've ever seen written in a diary. Your writing is fantastic. Great, great show.
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Post by mistersocko on Jul 30, 2024 15:47:21 GMT 1
It sucks to be a loser but it's cool when the booking isn't predictable (at least, it wasn't for me!). Looking forward to checking the report out later tonight!
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Post by johnnyboombatz on Aug 2, 2024 13:10:47 GMT 1
I knew you wouldn't disappoint me and MVP would become Mr. MITB. Was he ready to become a World Champion? I don't know exactly, but we've had way worse in the last 15 years. I think I can speak for everyone when I say I loved seeing JBL go from a ladder through some tables. I hope Blue Meanie loved it too. Pretty good finish in the Drew vs. Booker match, cementing Drew as a pretty good Intercontinental Champion. Yes, he won it sneakily, but he was tough throughout the match, beating Booker and deservingly so. RIP Hall of Pain. I really wanted Henry to win, but I guess Big Show needed a Mania win in 2008, as he didn't had any by that time - I think. Btw, a Chokeslam on the stairs to someone as big as Henry sounds immense. Mickie and Beth carried the division during that time and it made sense for them to have a relatively "lengthy" (for 2008 Diva standards) Mania match. I'd be ok with any result, really. I admit I thought about The Rock! But I didn't think you'd pull it off and Samoa Joe would've been huge too... but well, THE ROCK! His pre-match promo is "vintage Rocky" as Cole would say it. I can't say I'm not sad for Umaga. I get your point exactly, as Mania practically screams for a legend beating a monster heel. What's next for Estrada, though? So, Batista isn't exactly an heel. I'm not really surprised because the build-up for Flair/HBK was similar, but I kinda expected Batista to really turn heel. Maybe he will, but not against Flair? The match was exactly what I thought it would, btw. You made Dreamer's win way more meaningful than I thought you would. I thought it would be relatively clean and Gallows wouldn't have such an interference. When he did, I thought we'd see Sandman making a return (or maybe Taz) and cleaning house. But having Dreamer winning solo solidifies him a lot. London was really an all-star scoring two falls in the tag team title match. I'm shocked that I got that one right. Sure, London and Kendrick deserve it, but I actually thought Cryme Tyme would win. Edge vs. Undertaker was the best match in the card IRL. Seeing how it scored a 96% rating, I think it got pretty close from that in your save too. It's cool to see Kane back. I'm not sure if you'll make Taker vs. Edge last as long as WWE did in 2008. Specially as Jericho is the champion and Edge vs. Batista would also be relatively fresh. Of course the babyface divas won the multi-diva tag match. I honestly don't know how HHH and HBK never had a singles match at Mania and I honestly think Shawn's retirement should've been against Hunter. I loved your write-up and how you really made it feel like this was the MOTN. JR will surely be fined for phrasing the words "professional wrestling" post-match, tho. Pretty amazing match finish in Rey Rey vs. Jericho too. Jericho is having a great title run, which I thought wouldn't be easy due to how stacked the SmackDown roster is, almost making him feel like a B+ player only. Well, not anymore. I can see Batista or Taker challenging him next... unless the draft is right next? Btw, I just noticed: a lot of feel-good post-match respect nods in this Mania. Cool, I guess, I'm not against it at all. Oooh, the main event fell short in the rating category. I wasn't expecting it, but after so many bangers, it got hurt, I guess... or maybe it felt overbooked. I can't lie, any of the three previous bouts (well, not including the diva one, but Edge vs. Taker instead, of course) would sit better with me as the main event, tbh. I wouldn't turn Cody a heel in the main event of Mania, he was pretty much a rookie and not that important, but I get your point and I appreciate the bold move. Mania closing with a very rare heel win is almost groundbreaking. I'm not against it, though, as the good guys can't win all the time. I think I'm not exaggerating when I say this is quite possibly the best show I've ever seen written in a diary. Your writing is fantastic. Great, great show. WOW! What a comprehensive review! Are you sure you're not Meltzer? haha First off, thank you so much for the kind words, I really appreciate it. This diary would be nothing without an audience and I really enjoy everyone's participation and feedback. Now about the card. So MVP was not my first choice actually (he was top 3 though) but I did a thing after No Way Out where a couple of the recent prediction winners got to force "shake-ups" to my booking on a handful of select guys and MVP got the "Win MITB" one. This also went for Cody turning heel (which I was going to do anyway so that worked!). But I'm not mad at MVP being the MITB holder! Felt like Drew needed a "clean" win (or about as clean as he can get) to solidify his run and yeah wanted to give Big Show a "moment" especially since he worked so hard to get into shape! (haha) Trying to push the Women's matches longer but anything over 10 minutes just get poor scores. (We're getting there though!) Definitely shoehorned Rock into the show. I was so surprised IRL that he didn't do anything other than inducting his folks into the HOF that weekend since it was close to home for him. I put Dreamer's win after Flair's retirement for the crowd effect of "lowest of lows" to "highest of highs." Glad it came across as a meaningful moment. Did actually think about Sandman and some other OGs helping. Batista/Flair, HHH/HBK, and Y2J/Rey I definitely worried about having too many "respect" moments. Felt like at least Flair's was a little different but yeah I can't believe Trips and Michaels never had a 1-on-1 WM Match so that was one of the first things I had in my mind when I started this and it obviously delivered (not a doubt it wouldn't have!) Edge/Taker I think would have been a 100 without the interference but I had to include Kane at Mania! And then yeah since we had all the respect moments, I felt the fans could go home "sad/mad" even though everyone would have probably loved it since they were sick of Cena hahaha. I do agree that big turns is not really a 'Mania thing but it really helped Cody (he's up in the 60s now for pop!) |
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Post by mistersocko on Aug 3, 2024 16:44:31 GMT 1
Now that I've read the whole thing, I can only echo the sentiments above: it's a great show, worthy of the best WrestleManias, without being unrealistic either. The only thing I (respectfully) disagree is Dreamer's win. I read he wanted to spend his whole ECW career without ever winning a title and, although he did win a few tag team titles and hold the ECW title for a short time, I think this adds to his mystique. I liked his idea of this character who was always second-best and who won when it didn't matter - it always put the emphasis on the storylines. Then again, you could argue that he's won a few belts since then (I think he had one in Impact/TNA not so long ago) plus this is what fantasy booking is all about! You don't have to stick to the plan!
I guess, considering what almost happened at WM X7, it's also a nice gesture.
I thought the ending was expertly done, too. It's one of these twist that are classic enough to make you say 'oh, I knew it would end like this' and yet still gets you hooked. I tend to find that 'face' reigns are much harder to book than 'heel' ones (finding the right balance between being relatable, dominant and yet vulnerable is very difficult) so I guess I'm one of these people who were sick of Cena! That probably softened the blow! Now, I'm already looking forward to WrestleMania XXV!
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Post by Dimos on Aug 8, 2024 21:02:57 GMT 1
I finally catched up xD
Man, this WrestleMania was awesome! Some things were more or less predictable, but mostly I was surprised.
Like for example:
MVP?! He was the last man I would picked for a winner. I can't see him as a future champion, just can't imagine it for now. But maybe you'll have a good story for him.
Big Show was not much of a surprise, but I hope he'll have his big title run as a monster (kinda like unbeatable Andre).
I didn't expect The Rock. I would see there someone new/returning with a possible big storyline after, not a celebrity for one show... unless he would stay for a couple more appearances. But I doubt it.
Ric Flair's loss was expected. Curious if he would retire for good or will stay in some other role. (I'm big fan of him, one of my dogs has a name 'Flair')
Tommy Dreamer was a complete surprise. I dig the big moment for him, but I thought that you'll build ECW around Chavo.
Cody kinda was a surprise for me, but in retrospective understandable.
Anyway, great show.
And looking for a new season!
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Post by johnnyboombatz on Aug 9, 2024 4:19:01 GMT 1
 End of March 2008 News
-----------------------IN OTHER NEWS
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Post by ddpwcw on Aug 9, 2024 4:39:57 GMT 1
This diary is excellent.
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Post by fknkobe on Aug 9, 2024 7:55:48 GMT 1
A general clean-up of the roster, something that is already customary in the months of March.
RIP Billy Gunn!
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Post by johnnyboombatz on Aug 16, 2024 6:58:23 GMT 1
RAW March 31, 2008 Orlando, FL
THE AGE OF ORTON (85%)
Monday Night RAW begins with a video showing highlights of WrestleMania XXIV. The final part of the video shows the WWE Championship Match between John Cena and Randy Orton. After a back-and-forth contest, Legacy tried to interfere with the referee down but Cody Rhodes came out with a steel chair to even the odds...or so we thought. Rhodes shocked the world and hit Cena in the head with the chair before Orton punted Cena and became the new WWE Champion.
RHODES GIVES REASON (88%)
“Burn In My Light” hits and Randy Orton makes his first entrance as WWE Champion. Orton is joined by Ted DiBiase Jr. and Joe Hennig and when he gets into the ring, he gloats about his win. Orton says he told everyone that WrestleMania would mark the beginning of 'The Age of Orton.' Orton then says he needs to thank someone special...the newest member of Legacy, Cody Rhodes! Rhodes comes out to a ton of jeers and smiles as he enters the ring and greets the rest of Legacy. Rhodes then explains his actions and says that it was very clear. Rhodes said he was being stubborn for a while and Orton taught him some hard lessons but now he gets it. Cody continues and claims that you need to have the support of others if you want to go far in this business. Cody says he now realizes Orton was looking out for him right from the beginning. Orton chimes in and says he only did what he did because he knew Cody has a bright future. Orton says the men in this ring are pro wrestling royalty. Orton says he and the rest will continue to add to the “legacy” their fathers built. “The Game” by Motorhead then hit and Triple H ended the blarney in the ring. Hunter sarcastically congratulated Orton on winning all by himself before saying he wasn't surprised. HHH then said Orton could never do anything himself, even when he was in Evolution. Triple H says word is John Cena is going to be out for a little while so that means Orton doesn't have a challenger. Hunter then stakes his claim to being the next in line and Orton completely nixes that idea. However, “permanent” RAW General Manager, Jonathan Coachman comes over the titantron and says Orton vs. HHH for the WWE Title at Backlash sounds great! Coach then makes a match for the main event between Triple H and any other member of Legacy. Rhodes indicates that he wants the shot and it appears it will be HHH vs. Rhodes in tonight's main event.
THE ROCK'S RETURN! (93%)
Back from a commercial break and some more stills of WrestleMania XXIV are shown. Then we get a small highlight video showing The Rock returning to be Coach's partner. Back to the ring and Umaga's music hits. 'The Samoan Bulldozer' and former RAW GM, Armando Alejandro Estrada angrily make their way out. Trevor Murdoch currently stands in the ring but leaves when Estrada gets on the mic. Estrada is irate about what happened last night and says if everyone thought Umaga was destructive before, he's going to unleash a whole new level of violence on the WWE.
MATCH 1: UMAGA W/ARMANDO ALEJANDRO ESTRADA vs. TREVOR MURDOCH (63%, 1*)
And well Estrada wasn't kidding as Umaga really punished Murdoch. Murdoch tried fighting back with some hands on a couple of occasions but he just couldn't match the power and brutality of 'The Samoan Bulldozer.' After toying with his prey, Umaga hit three running hip attacks in the corner before Referee Chad Patton called the match. This didn't stop Umaga from picking up Murdoch and hitting a 'Samoan Spike' after the bell. Umaga was instructed to do more damage but road agents came out to put a stop to the mauling.
WINNER: UMAGA VIA REF STOPPAGE IN 3:29
MELINA MARS MICKIE'S MOMENT (71%)
Backstage, Mickie James is celebrating her Women's Championship win over Beth Phoenix with Candice Michelle, Kelly Kelly, and Maria. The rest of the women also won as a part of the big 12-woman tag team match and as the ladies continue to revel in their fortunes, Melina enters the shot, causing silence. Melina does give props to Mickie for winning but she rudely states that she deserves a chance at the title. Melina then finds an issue with how Kelly Kelly is looking at her and challenges her to a match, tonight!
MATCH 2: LONDON & KENDRICK vs. THE RENEGADES (73%, 2.5*)
One night after retaining their World Tag Team Titles in a Fatal 4-Way Elimination Match, London & Kendrick took on The Renegades. Lance Cade had been out of action for a while but shed his arm cast as he and Chris Harris looked to make a mark. The Renegades were controlling the match a little more than the champs and one could wonder if London & Kendrick were fatigued after last night. Cade was looking to put Kendrick away with a spinebuster slam but Kendrick countered and turned it into a crucifix pin. This caught Cade off guard and Harris was not able to break up the flash pin in time. The tag champs won and escaped the ring before a sore Cade and Harris could attack post-match.
WINNERS: LONDON & KENDRICK VIA PINFALL IN 9:07
MITB HIGHLIGHTS (85%)
RAW returned from a break with some more WrestleMania XXIV highlights. This time a more focused look at the chaotic Money In The Bank Ladder Match. The thrills and spills of the match were shown and Smackdown's MVP retrieved the briefcase to become the MITB holder.
MCINTYRE'S OPEN CHALLENGE (74%)
“Broken Dreams” by Shaman's Harvest hits and the Intercontinental Champion, Drew McIntyre, makes his way out. McIntyre successfully defended the IC Title against Booker T last night and is all smiles as he asks for a mic. McIntyre tells everyone he told them so in that he could win by himself. JR points out that while that's technically true, Drew still cheated to win. McIntyre says he's feeling charitable and wants to prove he can do it again. McIntyre offers an open challenge for the Intercontinental Championship, RIGHT NOW! After about 15 seconds of nothing, “Tattoo” by Mercy Drive hits...IT'S MAVEN!!! The crowd is shocked as the former Tough Enough Winner has returned to the WWE. McIntyre was also not expecting it and looks a little worried as the match begins.
MATCH 3: DREW MCINTYRE © vs. MAVEN – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP (64%, 1*)
The bell rings and a “Maven” chant starts as Maven soaks in the cheers. Maven gets the upper hand to begin the match but McIntyre shuts him down a couple of minutes in. Drew methodically dissected Maven for a few minutes until Maven caught a second wind. Maven then delivered his signature picture-perfect dropkick and was pumping up the crowd. Maven was starting to believe and got on the middle rope. When McIntyre got up, Maven jumped off and hit a 'Halo DDT.' Maven made the cover, 1...2...NO! and McIntyre just kicked out. William Regal then walked down ringside and distracted Maven. The distraction was enough to help Drew and when Maven tried to hit a corner splash, McIntyre moved and then caught Maven with a 'Claymore' to get the win. Regal handed McIntyre his championship but appeared to disagree with Drew's open challenge idea.
WINNER: DREW MCINTYRE VIA PINFALL IN 10:00
THE 2008 WWE DRAFT (85%)
RAW General Manager, Jonathan Coachman was shown in his office and addressed the audience. Coach says he's excited to be the one to announce that 4 weeks from today, the WWE will hold the 2008 WWE Draft. Just a night after Backlash, Coach tells us that the landscape of the WWE will be shaken up during this 3-hour special.
MATCH 4: MELINA vs. KELLY KELLY (61%, 0.5*)
Melina would take on Kelly Kelly in the penultimate match of the night. Melina was rough early with Kelly Kelly but Kelly Kelly turned it around and had a nice flurry of offense which concluded with a tilt-a-whirl headscissors takedown with a half-a-dozen rotations. Kelly tried to go for the win by hitting her 'K2' leg drop bulldog but when she stepped off of Melina's back, Melina caught her in mid-air and countered into a powerbomb that folded Kelly Kelly up like an accordion. Melina then hit her own leg drop bulldog, screaming, as she dropped Kelly Kelly with the 'Sunset Split' to get the win.
WINNER: MELINA VIA PINFALL IN 6:41
FLAIR'S FAREWELL THIS FRIDAY (90%)
An advertisement plays for Smackdown! this Friday where 'The Nature Boy' Ric Flair will have his send-off after losing his WrestleMania XXIV match against Batista. JR and King then briefly offer some words about Flair before the RAW Main Event starts.
***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 5: TRIPLE H vs. CODY RHODES W/LEGACY (79%, 2*)
“The Game” by Motorhead hits again and Triple H makes his entrance followed by Legacy's theme. All 4 members enter but Cody Rhodes tells the rest of Legacy that he's got it. Orton taps Rhodes on the shoulder and brings Ted DiBiase Jr. and Joe Hennig to the back with him. Rhodes was impressive early but Hunter started controlling the newest Legacy member. HHH hit Cody with a running high knee and then a 'Double-A Spinebuster.' Triple H was signaling for a 'Pedigree' but that's when the rest of Legacy reemerged. Triple H had Cody's arms hooked but let him go to knock Hennig off the apron. DiBiase Jr. was then able to distract Referee Mike Chioda enough for Orton to slide in the ring behind Triple H and hit him with an 'RKO' out of nowhere. Rhodes slowly crawled over, 1...2...2.9! Triple H kicked out! Orton and the rest of Legacy were shocked as Rhodes picked up HHH and attempted 'Cross Rhodes.' Triple H would counter and turn it into a 'Pedigree.' Unfortunately for Hunter, before he could get the three-count, Legacy jumped in the ring and started to beat him down.
WINNER: TRIPLE H VIA DQ IN 12:50
NOT SO FAST MY FRIEND (84%)
Triple H was trying to fight back but the numbers game was too much as it was 4-on-1. Legacy was beating down Hunter but then “Sexy Boy” hit. 'The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels rushed down to help his friend. HBK got in the ring and threw a charging Hennig over the top rope right away. DiBiase Jr. then charged but got hit with 'Sweet Chin Music.' With the playing field even, HHH was back up and punching Orton in the corner. Triple H then tried to hit a 'Pedigree' on Orton but he slipped out and had enough, leaving the ring. This left Rhodes in the ring with both Hunter and Shawn. HBK hit 'Sweet Chin Music' on Cody and Rhodes stumbled right into a 'Pedigree' from Triple H. Orton threw his hands up as he met with the rest of Legacy on the ramp as Triple H and Shawn Michaels got the upper hand to end this episode of RAW.
FINAL RAW RATING (79%, 3.10 MILLION VIEWERS) -------------------- ECW April 1, 2008 Miami, FL
A HERO'S WELCOME! (83%)
ECW begins in-ring with GM, Mick Foley. Foley welcomes everyone to the show and introduces the NEW ECW Champion, Tommy Dreamer! Dreamer makes his way out with the coveted belt around his waist. Dreamer soaks in the adulation of the crowd before Foley hands him the mic. Dreamer thanks Foley and then the crowd. He continued to say that you all (the fans) never stopped believing and because of that, I stand here as the ECW Champion! Unfortunately, Chavo Guerrero has heard enough and his music interrupts the moment. Chavo is surprisingly in a good mood and Foley ponders why. Chavo says that Dreamer may have beaten him on Sunday but he thinks he's going to want to hear what he has to say. Dreamer tries to cut Chavo off but Chavo continues and says that he knows about something that Foley knows about. Foley's expression changes and Chavo goes on to mention that over WrestleMania weekend, his Aunt Vickie let it slip that ECW is going to be canceled. The crowd, Joey Styles, and Tazz all react to that bombshell and Dreamer looks at Foley, who tells Chavo to quiet. Chavo then says he's going to use his rematch clause to win back his title and become the “last ECW Champion.” Dreamer barks back and tells Chavo over his dead body that he would not allow that to happen. Before Dreamer got more fired up, Foley stopped him and told Chavo that tonight he can get a taste when he takes on The Sandman in an Extreme Rules Match. Chavo is livid and the segment ends with Dreamer and Chavo yelling at each other.
THE FUTURE FREAKS ME OUT (81%)
Returning from a break, a replay is shown of the promo that just happened where Chavo said ECW is going to be canceled. A shot of Joey Styles and Tazz at the commentary table is shown and both men are worried and unsure of what this means for the future.
MATCH 1: PAUL BURCHILL vs. SUPER CRAZY (64%, 2*)
Paul Burchill made his return to action against Super Crazy in the opening contest. Crazy used his speed and quickness to throw Burchill off for a little bit but once Burchill countered with a sidewalk slam, control went to him for the remainder of the match. Burchill would end up putting away Crazy with the 'C4.'
WINNER: PAUL BURCHILL VIA PINFALL IN 4:15
DREAMER WANTS ANSWERS (85%)
A shot then goes to Mick Foley's office and Tommy Dreamer storms in. Dreamer yells towards Foley and asks him if what Chavo said was true and Foley says there is some truth to that. Foley says he's upset that it got out like this and there was going to be an announcement in the coming weeks as to what the future of ECW would be. Dreamer is left shaking his head and as the two continue to talk, the show goes to commercial.
CHAVO BLASTS 'PLAN B' (77%)
ECW returns with Chavo getting ready in his locker room. Luke Gallows then walks in and Chavo rolls his eyes and asks him what he's doing here. Gallows talks about Chavo's match with The Sandman and Chavo gets contentious and tells Gallows that he was the reason he lost the ECW Championship. Chavo says he doesn't want him to come out because all he does is screw up. Chavo says Gallows is all brawn and no brain, which causes the big man to seethe a little before leaving the area.
MATCH 2: CM PUNK vs. MIKE KNOX (75%, 1.5*)
CM Punk took on Mike Knox in the middle match of the night. Punk was close to winning Money In The Bank at WrestleMania and felt the effects of the match, as he came out with some tape on his shoulder. Knox brought the fight to Punk and targeted Punk's shoulder, putting him in a couple of submission holds. Punk fought through the pain and was able to hit a jumping leg lariat to regain momentum. Punk then hit his signature springboard clothesline before calling for the 'GTS.' Punk went to lift Knox but his shoulder gave out, leading Knox to counter into position to hit a 'Knox-Out.' Unfortunately for Knox, when he twisted Punk to hit his finisher, Punk countered and turned it into a roll-up pin to catch the big man off guard and win the match. Punk was able to find a way to win with his bum shoulder and escaped the ring before Knox got a hold of him post-match.
WINNER: CM PUNK VIA PINFALL IN 9:28
KOFI VS. MASTERS NEXT WEEK (70%)
A graphic then pops up for next week as the bitter rivalry between ECW's newest superstar, Kofi Kingston, and 'The Masterpiece' Chris Masters finally blows off in a singles match. Styles and Tazz talk about this before the music of The Sandman hits to signal the start of the Main Event.
***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 3: CHAVO GUERRERO vs. THE SANDMAN – EXTREME RULES (74%, 2.5*)
Chavo Guerrero took on The Sandman in the Main Event in an Extreme Rules Match. Chavo did all he could to shy away from weaponry but Sandman forced him out of the ring right away with his Singapore Cane. After Sandman got a few shots in, Chavo was able to flip momentum by sending Sandman into the steel steps. Chavo then began using a cane to whack Sandman a bit. The ending of the match had Chavo set up a table in the ring and started to place Sandman on it. Chavo was going to try for a Frog Splash through the table but as Chavo started climbing the turnbuckles, Luke Gallows came out. Chavo was perched on the top rope with his arms out wondering what Gallows was doing. Gallows got on the apron and appeared to have his sights set on Sandman. Gallows entered the ring but instead, he went over to Chavo, grabbed him by the throat, and once Sandman rolled off the table, Gallows chucked Chavo off through the table. Sandman then covered Chavo and got the win. Gallows walked to the back while Styles and Tazz signed off wondering what's next?
WINNER: THE SANDMAN VIA PINFALL IN 10:10
FINAL ECW RATING (77%, 2.03 MILLION VIEWERS) -------------------- Smackdown! April 4, 2008 Miami, FL
WRESTLEMANIA XXIV RECAP (90%)
Smackdown! hits the airwaves with a video package from WrestleMania XXIV. On the Smackdown! side of things, highlights included MVP winning Money In The Bank, The Undertaker adding to his undefeated streak by beating Edge, Chris Jericho retaining his World Title in a classic against Rey Mysterio, and then Batista beating Ric Flair, forcing 'The Nature Boy' to retire.
THE NATURE BOY ARRIVES (87%)
A shot of a limo pulls up to the arena and it opens. It is 'The Nature Boy' Ric Flair. Flair is all decked out in a suit and is smiling as he passes a few staff members backstage. A graphic shows on the bottom of the screen that Flair will be giving his farewell speech to close the show. Michael Cole and Ernest 'The Cat' Miller have a few nice things to say before Tony Chimel announces still the World Heavyweight Champion, Chris Jericho!
Y2J MEET MR. MITB! (89%)
“Break The Walls Down” rocks through the arena and 'Y2J' makes his way out. Before Jericho begins, the crowd gives him a long cheer and Chris basks in the glory. Jericho starts off by proudly exclaiming that he is still your World Heavyweight Champ! Jericho then says that he wants to be real and give Rey Mysterio his props. Y2J said that he's known Rey for over a decade, he respects the hell out of him, and on Sunday he gave him one of the best fights of his life. Jericho says it was an honor to share the ring with Mysterio, and that he'd like him to come out. The fans cheer in anticipation of Mysterio but “I'm Comin'” Silkk the Shocker hits and the crowd groans as MVP comes out. MVP tells Y2J he doesn't wanna hear all that mushy crap and says the most important thing that came out of WrestleMania is that you are looking at “Mr. Money In The Bank!” MVP says that means at any time, any place, he can cash this baby in and become the World Champion. Jericho then jokes and says that MVP would still have to win the match, which he most certainly not do as long as Y2J is the champ. MVP calls Jericho's antics “cute” and then says maybe he'll cash it in tonight? Jericho asks him what is he waiting for and calls MVP a coward. This gets MVP to start walking down but then he starts to laugh as he is feigning. MVP asks Jericho if Y2J really thinks he would be that dumb. MVP says he's going to do this on his own terms and says to trust him that when he decides, it will be the perfect time.
MATCH 1: THE AMAZING RED vs. SHANNON MOORE (64%, 2.5*)
The opening non-title contest was some Cruiserweight action, as the champ, The Amazing Red, took on Shannon Moore. Both men slapped hands as a sign of sportsmanship when the bell rang and it was fast-paced action for the majority of the match. Red hit his signature cartwheel over-the-top rope corkscrew moonsault, while Moore impressed with a Frankensteiner off the top rope. The match came to an end when Moore went for his 'Halo' corkscrew senton but missed. Red moved out of the way and quickly got up to hit a standing moonsault, and followed it with the 'Infrared' to win an action-packed competitive match.
WINNER: THE AMAZING RED VIA PINFALL IN 8:56
NEXT WORLD TITLE CHALLENGER (94%)
The camera then cut to a shot of Smackdown! GM, Teddy Long. Long was in his office and announced that next week there would be a blockbuster match. Out of WrestleMania, both of these men won, and in a continuation of the amazing rivalry these two men had last year, 'The Animal' Batista will take on 'The Deadman' The Undertaker to determine who will be the #1 Contender for Chris Jericho's World Heavyweight Championship at Backlash. A huge announcement as the fans make some noise and Michael Cole and The Cat share their excitement.
MATCH 2: THE BIG SHOW vs. FINLAY (80%, 2*)
After a quick recap video of The Big Show winning the United States Championship at WrestleMania XXIV, the new champ comes out for non-title action against 'The Belfast Bruiser' Finlay. Despite the size disadvantage, Finlay did not shy away from throwing hands and hit Show with a couple of European Uppercuts early that staggered the giant. Finlay even countered an Irish Whip by dropkicking Show in the knee and then hitting a seated senton. Finlay turned it into a cover but Show pushed him off, displaying his ridiculous power. Finlay then decided to go to the top rope to try and hit a big move but since he rarely goes to the high-district area, he jumped off right into Show catching him around the throat. Show then hit the chokeslam and it was all she wrote.
WINNER: THE BIG SHOW VIA PINFALL IN 6:45
CRASH AND BURN (85%)
Returning from a commercial break, a highlight video plays of the big moment in Sunday's Money In The Bank Match when JBL was pushed off the ladder, falling through two tables on the outside. Michael Cole then mentioned that JBL may need a little break after the fall and Cat was not amused by Cole's seemingly elated tone for JBL's misfortune.
ON THE SHELF (83%)
Speaking of needing some time off, Talia Madison was backstage for an interview along with Layla and Brooke. Josh Mathews asked Talia about the loss at 'Mania and Madison got upset right away. Talia mentioned how Victoria suffered an injury in the match because of Michelle McCool. Talia then said that Victoria was gunning for a rematch for the Divas Championship and McCool purposely injured her to avoid having to face her again. Mathews tries to defend McCool but Layla and Brooke had none of it, telling Mathews to pipe down. Talia then said she's going to make it her mission to take the Divas title from McCool, and maybe injure her too.
MATCH 3: MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. LOCAL TALENT (59%, 1.5*)
The Divas Champ was in non-title action next against a local talent. The match only lasted a couple of minutes as McCool showcased her impressive strength and athletic ability. McCool then put away the local talent with the 'Wings of Love' to get the win.
WINNER: MICHELLE MCCOOL VIA PINFALL IN 3:02
VICKIE-LEAKS (75%)
The camera then cut to Teddy Long, who was in his office with Assistant GM, Vickie Guerrero. Teddy wanted to know what the heck happened regarding the ECW business, like how did Chavo find out that ECW was going to be canceled? Vickie apologized and said she had no idea because she didn't even associate with him all WrestleMania weekend. Teddy then said that Vickie didn't have to apologize because Long himself didn't know this was the case. Teddy said with the draft coming up, this should make things interesting.
***MAIN EVENT*** MATCH 4: CHRIS JERICHO vs. MVP W/KRISTAL MARSHALL (82%, 2*)
The Smackdown! Main Event was next as Chris Jericho took on MVP in a non-title match. Y2J had the early advantage before MVP used some underhanded tactics to take control. Towards the closing stages of the match, MVP hit his 'Ballin' Elbow' and then got set up in the corner to go for a 'Drive-By.' MVP charged but Y2J countered by catching his leg and dropping him into position for 'The Walls of Jericho.' After a struggle, Kristal sensed that her man might not be able to hold on any longer and jumped up on the apron. This distracted Referee Nick Patrick and made him miss MVP tapping. Jericho broke the hold, realizing Kristal was causing a distraction, and yelled at her to get off. Meanwhile, MVP grabbed his Money In The Bank briefcase, which was sitting at the top of the steel steps, and whacked Jericho in the face with it. Patrick did see the weapon use and disqualified MVP but it was completely intentional.
WINNER: CHRIS JERICHO VIA INTENTIONAL DQ IN 10:12
CASHING IN??? (86%)
MVP started stomping away at Jericho and it became apparent that he got himself DQ'ed on purpose so that he could beat him down. MVP got in the corner with the briefcase and hit a second shot to Jericho's head, as he stumbled to his feet. MVP then looked at the briefcase, looked down at Jericho on the mat, and got encouragement from Kristal to cash in Money In The Bank right now. MVP hands the briefcase to Nick Patrick and as he pokes his head out of the ring to tell Tony Chimel to make the announcement, “Booyaka 619” by P.O.D. hits, and Rey Mysterio sprints down to the ring. MVP misses on a briefcase shot to him and Mysterio hits a drop-toe hold on MVP to get him in '619' position. Mysterio goes to hit it but Kristal pulls both MVP and the briefcase out of the ring. Jericho then starts getting up and Mysterio helps him to his feet. Y2J thanks Rey and the two shake hands and share a hug.
LEAVE THE MEMORIES ALONE (95%)
Returning from a commercial break shows another look back at Sunday's WrestleMania where 'The Nature Boy' Ric Flair competed in his last match against 'The Animal' Batista. Back live and “I Walk Alone” by Saliva hits as Batista makes his way down to the ring in a suit and tie, and a pair of sunglasses. Batista is very emotional as he announces his mentor, his friend, Ric Flair. Flair comes out to a standing ovation and when he gets in the ring, he and Batista embrace. Batista says he has something special for him and a video begins playing on the titantron to the tune of “Leave The Memories Alone” by Fuel. The video shows highlights from Flair's whole career. After the video, the crowd erupted in “Nature Boy” chants as others started to come out to pay their respect. Flair's Four Horseman stablemate, Arn Anderson, The Big Show, Chris Jericho, and Rey Mysterio all entered the ring to say bye to Ric. Flair grabbed the mic and thanked everyone in the ring and every fan that made noise when he stepped down the ramp and into the ring. Flair finishes with his famous quote: “Diamonds are forever, and so is 'The Nature Boy' Ric Flair. WOOOOOO!” Then “The Game” by Motorhead hits and Triple H makes a rare Friday Night appearance. Flair is genuinely surprised as Batista laughs indicating he was in on this. Hunter gets in the ring and bows to Flair before the show goes off the air with Triple H and Batista holding Flair's arms in the air.
FINAL SD! RATING (85%, 3.32 MILLION VIEWERS)
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(OOC: The big news is obviously cutting ECW as a brand. I'm just having a real hard time with the roster being spread so thin and I'm using the 'PG' change as the realistic reason it is being dropped. I have a nice plan in place to give ECW a nice sendoff. Oh and Maven is back! I've been loving his YouTube channel and I guess he almost came back in 2008, so now I made it a reality! Victoria's injury is also legit which stinks because I currently have no viable heels to challenge Michelle but thankfully the Draft is coming up shortly. Trying to get some big matches set for Backlash and of course we say by to 'The Nature Boy!') |
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Post by Dimos on Aug 16, 2024 10:13:19 GMT 1
Drop the RAW and leave ECW alone xD
Ok, I might be heartless, but I was expecting someone to ruin Flair's farewell party. That someone would get an enormous heat and his career/push/heel character development might skyrocket (same with ending Undertaker's streak), but you have more heart that I am.
Great plot with almost cashing-in by MVP.
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