Mac Daddy
07-08-2004, 12:01 AM
I believe this is some of my better work, so I'm looking to get my feelings hurt, lol. But seriously guys, help me to become a better scriptor with tidbits and just an overall view of what you read. Thanks and appreciated.
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Thursday, July 8, 2004
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Before the opening SmackDown video and theme song hits, a promo is shown from the main-event of last week’s SmackDown. In the conclusion of that match, John “Bradshaw” Layfield interfered in the match on behalf of Kurt Angle and Rob Van Dam. The three men beat down on Chris Benoit and Eddie Guerrero. They stood firmly in the center of the ring, united and dominant. But also footage of the eerie assault on 2004 King of the Ring, John Cena by an unknown assailant. Then the opening SmackDown video and theme songs hits and after it wraps up, the cameras go to the Amelia Park Ice Arena in Hartford, CT. The cameras switch to different sections of the arena and the fans cheer and flash their signs, in anticipation for a great night of WWE action. The cameras then go to Michael Cole and Tazz at ringside.
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Michael Cole: Hello ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to WWE SmackDown! Michael Cole and Tazz here at ringside, and it’s expected to be quite a night here on SmackDown.
Tazz: Lemme tell ya, folks, there’s been some great matches put together by Stephanie McMahon and tonight’s going to be off the charts!
Michael Cole: Right here tonight, Eddie Guerrero will defend the United States title in a triple threat match with John “Bradshaw” Layfield and Kurt Angle.
Tazz: That’s what Guerrero asked for, and that’s what he got.
Michael Cole: Guerrero actually asked for a match against JBL, but anyway, also tonight, ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ Rob Van Dam meets WWE Champion Chris Benoit in a singles match.
Tazz: That’s expected to be quite a contest, I tell you. Also my partner here, Michael ‘Shoelace’ Cole will give an updated on the condition of John Cena here tonight.
Michael Cole: That’s correct, folks. All that and more, here tonight, on SmackDown!
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Backstage, cameras catch the live footage as WWE Champion Chris Benoit arrives at the arena. There is an initial pop from the crowd, as Benoit comes walking in the direction of the camera. Then Josh Matthews catches up with the champion and he asks him, “Chris Benoit, tonight Eddie Guerrero will defend the U.S. title in a triple threat match against JBL and Kurt Angle. How do you feel about this, since it seems it’ll be a glorified handicap match?” Chris Benoit adjusts his WWE title belt on his shoulder and he replies, “Well, I’m not that concerned about Eddie Guerrero’s match, or anyone else’s match for that matter. Tonight, I got my own match against (mockingly) ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ Rob Van Dam. And tonight, I’m going show Van Dam who really is ‘Mr. Thursday Night’. That man is me, the Rabid Wolverine, and the reigning WWE Champion, Chris Benoit!” Chris Benoit begins to leave when a guy walks up in a suit. He says to Chris Benoit, “Look, Benoit, Mrs. McMahon has told me to tell you that if you interfere in the main-event tonight, you’ll be suspended for three weeks.” To which Benoit replies, “Who in God’s name are you?” The man says, “I’m Johnny Smoove, Stephanie McMahon’s new assistant.” Chris Benoit then says, “Well let me tell you something Johnny, I won’t interfere in the main-event tonight, but if I happen to feel like it, I will. I do what I want to do, when I want to do it, because I’m the WWE Champion. So you go back and tell Stephanie McMahon exactly what I said.” Johnny Smoove twists his mouth and then he leaves. Chris Benoit smirks and then he walks off as the crowd cheers.
Then the cameras go to the ring and two pyrotechnical blasts hit the titantron and the Dudley Boyz’ music hits and the WWE Tag Team Champions come out! Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley come out to huge cheers from the crowd. They go to the ring and in the first match, the Dudley Boyz are set to face the Basham Brothers in a non-title match. The cheers turn to boos as Danny and Doug Basham come out with Shaniqua behind them. Michael Cole and Tazz react surprisingly to this because Shaniqua was on Raw weeks ago, but apparently she’s back with the Basham Brothers. They get into the ring, the bell rings and the match begins. The match is dominated by the Basham Brothers due to the shady techniques of Shaniqua. The end of the sees: Doug Basham and Bubba Ray Dudley are in the ring. Bubba has just gotten the tag after a long isolation of D-Von Dudley by the Bashams. Bubba Ray Dudley sends Doug Basham to the ropes. Basham comes back and Bubba Ray lifts him up and drops him onto the mat with an overhead toss or back drop. Doug Basham gets back up and he turns around and Bubba Ray kicks Doug in the mid-section and he lifts him up and gives him a suplex. Danny Basham jumps into the ring and Bubba Ray Dudley kicks him in the mid-section, and he hits him with his “Bubba Combos”. Danny staggers and D-Von Dudley jumps into the ring and he runs, clotheslines Danny Basham over the third rope, going out of the ring with him. Doug Basham gets up and Bubba Ray places his attention back on Doug. Doug Basham turns around and Bubba Ray Dudley kicks him in the mid-section, turns him around and hits him with a Bubba Drop. Bubba Ray makes the cover, but then Shaniqua grabs Bubba Ray’s legs and pulls. Bubba Ray Dudley jumps up and he yells at the referee. Bubba then turns around and pays attention to Doug Basham. Shaniqua then throws her whip to Danny Basham who is getting up on the outside. The referee doesn’t see this and Danny takes the whip, which has a metallic head and hits D-Von Dudley in the lower back as he gets up. Danny Basham crawls into the ring and he runs and hits Bubba Ray Dudley in the back of the head. Bubba Ray Dudley at first staggers, and then Danny grabs Bubba and rolls him up. Danny and Doug make the switch and the fans begin to boo. Doug rolls out of the ring and Shaniqua gets down off the apron, as Danny Basham has an unconscious Bubba Ray rolled up. The referee turns around and gets down and counts the victory for the Basham Brothers! The Bashams’ music hits and Danny Basham rolls out of the ring and he and Shaniqua helps Doug Basham up, on the outside. The Basham Brothers and Shaniqua celebrate on the ramp, with their victory over the reigning WWE Tag Team Champions. D-Von Dudley rolls into the ring, holding his back and checks on his “brother” Bubba Ray Dudley.
Backstage, former Cruiserweight Champion Rey Mysterio is getting ready for his match against Chavo Guerrero up next after the break. Then Paul London walks into the room and Mysterio and London are good friends. Paul London walks up to Mysterio and he says, “What’s up, Rey? Hey, man, good luck on your match with Chavo Guerrero up next. I here he’s steaming after last week and looking forward to taking you out.” Rey Mysterio replies, “Yeah, man I know, but believe me, I’m ready for Chavo. Tonight, I’m going to end Chavo’s triumphant return before it ever begins.” Paul London begins to walk away and then Rey Mysterio calls out to London and says, “And by the way, good luck to you in your match against Tajiri tonight, Paul.” Paul London says, “I think you’d better wish Tajiri luck.” Rey Mysterio smiles and straightens up his mask and continues getting prepared. /// The cameras then go to the hall way, where Chavo Guerrero is getting prepared for his match against Rey Mysterio up next after the commercial break.
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When SmackDown returns, Rey Mysterio’s music hits. The crowd begins cheering and moments later, the Masked Mysterious One launches himself onto the stage! The crowd begins cheering even louder and Rey Mysterio begins to make his way to the ring. Mysterio gets into the ring, gets onto the turnbuckle and he poses for the crowd. Mysterio gets down and he goes to the next turnbuckle, goes up and the cameras in the arena begin to flash. Then suddenly, “Ooooohhh … Chavo!” Chavo Guerrero’s music hits and all the cheers immediately turn to boos. As Guerrero makes his entrance, footage is shown on the titantron. Last week on SmackDown, Chavo Guerrero made his first SmackDown appearance in months. Gene Okerlund’s interview with Chavo Guerrero led to a short backstage brawl between Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero. Tonight, they square off in the ring, hoping that a victory tonight would put them over the top and in position for a Cruiserweight title match. Chavo Guerrero’s music cuts and he and Rey Mysterio go at it. The match lasts about 14 minutes and the fans eat up every minute of it. In the end, Chavo Guerrero has Rey Mysterio in a sleeper hold. Chavo Guerrero applies more and more pressure on Mysterio’s neck as the second goes by. The crowd comes alive and they begin to chant Rey Mysterio’s name. Rey Mysterio begins to move, and Chavo realizes he has to stop the momentum before it kicks off. Chavo Guerrero tightens the grip and begins yanking at the neck of Rey Mysterio. Chavo Guerrero lets go for a second and he bends Mysterio, who is sitting down, over some and he clubs Mysterio’s upper back. Chavo Guerrero gets up and he lifts Rey Mysterio and throws him to the ropes. Chavo Guerrero arrogantly taunts the fans and then he runs and goes for a clothesline. Rey Mysterio moves out of the way, and Chavo Guerrero flies into the corner. Chavo staggers in the area and Rey Mysterio gets out of the ring, on the apron. Rey reaches over and he grabs Chavo’s neck and pulls it down on the third rope, with a guillotine. Chavo Guerrero bounces off the third rope and flies onto the mat. Rey Mysterio jumps on the third rope and launches himself into the ring, and onto Chavo Guerrero with a leg drop. Mysterio covers Chavo, but he kicks out before the count of three. Rey Mysterio takes a second to gather himself and so does Chavo Guerrero. Rey Mysterio gets up and Chavo turns around and Mysterio punches him three times. Rey sends Chavo to the ropes. Rey Mysterio bends down looking to catch Chavo, and Chavo Guerrero flips over Mysterio, trying to grab his legs for a roll up. Rey Mysterio breaks free, running back to the ropes. Mysterio comes back and he gives Chavo Guerrero a drop down dropkick, dropping onto the mat. Chavo flies down and Mysterio once again makes the cover, but Chavo Guerrero gets the arm up before the count of three. Rey Mysterio gets up and he stomps Chavo Guerrero. Rey Mysterio grabs Chavo and goes to lift him up, but Chavo elbows Mysterio in the gut. Chavo elbows Mysterio again, and he begins to rise to his feet. Chavo Guerrero makes it up and he punches Mysterio once. Rey punches back and Chavo lays a punch of his own on Rey. Chavo Guerrero throws another punch, but Rey catches it and punches Chavo in the face. The crowd comes alive and they can sense a revival. Rey Mysterio goes to town on Chavo Guerrero and he backs him up against the ropes. Rey Mysterio goes for an Irish whip, but then he doesn’t let go. Mysterio spins Chavo around, lifts him up and throws him, gut first on the third rope! Chavo Guerrero hangs there for a while, as the fans cheer. Rey then grabs Chavo’s legs and takes a page out of Hardcore Holly’s book and kicks Chavo Guerrero in the gut. Rey Mysterio lets go and Chavo Guerrero drops down to his knees, holding his mid-section. Chavo Guerrero then gets up and takes off. Rey trips Guerrero up, and he lands on the second rope. Mysterio calls for the 6-1-9 and the fans begin cheering. Rey Mysterio runs to the ropes, goes between them and nails the 6-1-9! Chavo Guerrero bounces near the center of the ring and Rey Mysterio calls for the West Coast Pop! Then suddenly, Mysterio turns his attention to the audience. Suddenly, a fan jumps out of the audience wearing a suit. Mysterio is distracted, and Chavo Guerrero regains his senses. He goes over, and clubs Mysterio over the back. He then grabs him in a suplex position, and lifts Mysterio from the outside to the in, in a suplex position. Then suddenly, Chavo Guerrero drops Mysterio to the mat with a violent brainbuster DDT! Chavo makes the cover and the referee counts his victory! Then Chavo Guerrero’s music hits and he gets out of the ring and embraces the fan that distracted Rey Mysterio. Surprisingly enough, there is no attempt on the security personnel’s behalf to apprehend the man. Chavo Guerrero and the unknown man celebrate on their way back. Chavo Guerrero has stolen a victory over Rey Mysterio here tonight on SmackDown.
Backstage, Gene Okerlund is standing by with ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ Rob Van Dam. Gene Okerlund asks Rob Van Dam, “What do you think about our WWE Champion, Chris Benoit?” Rob Van Dam replies, “I’m not going to put up some big defensive wall here, if that’s what you were expecting, okay Gene. So, I’ll come out and say what I feel, yeah, I guess do respect Chris Benoit. There’s no denying what the man has accomplished as WWE Champion. I mean, he’s beaten Brock Lesnar, Kurt Angle, and Eddie Guerrero, everyone that’s been thrown at him. But there’s one man that I know he hasn’t faced, Rob Van Dam.” Gene Okerlund says, “Well, Mr. Van Dam I don’t know if that’s exactly true. Last year around June, you were the Intercontinental Champion over on the Raw Brand. Your memory may have failed you, but I remember Chris Benoit beating you at Bad Blood last year, in 2003.” “Well, if you had let me finish I would have clarified that. Rob Van Dam is a highly intelligent man and my memory hasn’t failed me one damn bit. I remember last year being beaten by Benoit, but I also remember the circumstances of last year. Things have changed since then, Gene; Benoit’s champion and we’re two of the biggest stars SmackDown has to offer. Not to mention Rob Van Dam is way more intense and skilled than I was last year. The truth of the matter is, tonight, Chris Benoit doesn’t have a chance. Benoit is relatively new to this ‘being on top of the world’ thing and I’ll play that to my advantage. I’ll show Mr. Benoit why I’m ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ and come SummerSlam, when I take that WWE Championship in the Elimination Chamber, Benoit will also find out why they call me ‘Mr. Pay-Per-View,” Rob Van Dam says.
Backstage, Stephanie McMahon is in her office, sitting down on the couch, talking on her cellular phone. Moments later, her husband, the ‘Olympic Hero’ Kurt Angle comes in. Kurt Angle sits down on the couch and Stephanie seems a little uncomfortable. Kurt Angle says, “Steph, you know what’s up with John Cena?” Stephanie McMahon replies, “What do you mean, Kurt?” “Well I mean this big update on his condition. I hear it’s something big; major,” says Kurt. Stephanie says, “Well, Kurt you’re going to have to wait until everyone else to find out.” Kurt Angle complains, “Well that’s a problem Stephanie. I’m one of the biggest stars on SmackDown and not to mention, your husband. I think I deserve to be privy to this kind of --” Kurt Angle is cut off by the door opening. It’s none other than John “Bradshaw” Layfield, whom will participate in the main-event triple threat match for the U.S. title with Kurt Angle. JBL says, “Look, Kurt and Stephanie, I wanted to talk to you about the main-event tonight. When Eddie changed me at that house show, I was looking forward to beating the hell out of him myself, not in a triple threat match, with all due respect.” Stephanie stands up and so does Kurt Angle. Stephanie looks at Kurt, because he stood up as well and says, “Well, Mr. Layfield, let me first state that I make the decisions, not Kurt Angle or anyone else for that matter. It’s all me.” Stephanie continues, “I made the triple threat match because of the situation Kurt presented when he interrupted Eddie Guerrero at --” Kurt cuts off Stephanie and jumps, “Yeah, besides, we clearly have the advantage, John.” John “Bradshaw” Layfield replies, “Yes, that’s the point, Kurt. ‘We’ shouldn’t have the advantage. I should have the advantage, and not anyone else! I told the world a week ago that I would do what I wanted to from now on, for myself. And I damn it, I meant what I said!” Kurt tries to calm JBL down and says, “Look, Bradshaw, the advantage rests in our corner, which still means you. That’s all that should matter.” John “Bradshaw” Layfield shakes his head and says, “Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say, Mr. and Mrs. Angle.” JBL still doesn’t seem pleased and he turns around and leaves out of the room. Stephanie McMahon kind of twists his lower lip, in disbelief of Kurt. Kurt replies, “What? What, Stephanie?” Stephanie doesn’t say anything at all. Kurt Angle shrugs and he takes the small dish with the celery and Ranch dip from off the table and leaves Stephanie’s office. It seems the main-event of tonight will stand, whether John “Bradshaw” Layfield likes it or not.
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Backstage, when SmackDown returns, Chavo Guerrero and the man that helped him win his match against Rey Mysterio earlier tonight, are leaving. They reach the low-rider and then Eddie Guerrero rushes up to them, out of nowhere. The unknown man replies, “Hey, its Mr. United States Champion. My little brother Eddie.” The crowd cheers and is surprised by this revelation. Eddie Guerrero says in a very serious tone, “What the hell are you doing here, man? Costing people matches! You don’t work here!” The man replies, “I do now, Eddie.” Chavo Guerrero then says, “Hey, Uncle Eddie, chill out. Think of this, as a family reunion!” “Viva Guerrero!” exclaims the unknown man. Chavo Guerrero and the man proceed to get into their car. Chavo starts the low-rider and Chavo hits the hydraulics and it bounces for a moment. Then Chavo Guerrero and the unknown man speed off. Eddie Guerrero is still startled and he begins walking away. Then Josh Matthews runs up and asks, “Eddie, who was that?” Eddie Guerrero reluctantly replies, “That, ese, was my older brother, Chavo Sr.” Josh Matthews’ is shocked by this and he stares at the direction they left. Eddie Guerrero continues walking away, having surprised everyone with the revelation.
Backstage, Rey Mysterio and Paul London are watching the monitor backstage, and react to the startling development. Rey Mysterio says, “God, I knew he looked familiar. Chavo Guerrero Sr., huh? Well, I don’t give a damn who you are, or you’re related to, no one disrespects Rey Mysterio the way he did. I mean, he cost me my match, ese. I tell you what though, since Chavo Sr. apparently works here now, next week, I want his ass in this ring. Right here on SmackDown!” Paul London says, “I’d like to see that. What happened was real dirty, man. Well, look anyway I gotta get going, Rey. See ya later.” Paul London walks off, heading to the ring for his match. As London departs Rey says, “Oh, and tell Tajiri and I said good luck, holmes!” Rey Mysterio turns to leave, but then he runs into the man who introduced himself earlier as Johnny Smoove, Stephanie McMahon’s assistant. Johnny says, “Hey, ese, I got some startling revelations for you too. Try this one for size, if you interfere in the match between Tajiri and Paul London, you’ll be suspended for a month. And furthermore --” Rey Mysterio cuts him off and says, “What in the hell –- Oh, wait a minute. You’re that guy that was in Benoit’s face. Didn’t you threaten him with suspension too? Who are you really?” “I’m Johnny Smoove, Stephanie McMahon’s assistant. And no, ese, I didn’t ‘threaten’ Chris Benoit. I made a promise. In fact, I’m making that same promise to you. So holmes, if you interfere in the match, you’re outta here for a month. Got it?” Smoove says. Rey Mysterio answers, “Yeah, whatever, man.” Johnny Smoove begins to walk off and then he stops and turns around, “Oh, and by the way, you don’t make the matches around here, Cheeco. If you want Chavo Guerrero Sr. next week, I suggest you stop by General Manager McMahon’s office. She calls the shots around here, not Rey Mysterio. You got that?” Rey Mysterio stares at Johnny and then he begins to say, “Ye --” “No need to open your mouth. I already know,” Smoove says when cutting Rey Mysterio off. It seems Stephanie McMahon is serious about her matches tonight, and she’s dispatched her new assistant Johnny Smoove to see to it that targeted individuals know. So far he’s done an effective job.
The next match on SmackDown is a cruiserweight match between the “Japanese Buzzsaw” Tajiri against Paul London. Both of these men have not been on SmackDown a great deal in recent months. Tajiri has been one anger and unpleasant person since Judgment Day in May. Prior to that event Tajiri had betrayed best friend Eddie Guerrero and was set to face him at Judgment Day for Guerrero’s U.S. title in a Street Fight. Eddie Guerrero defeated Tajiri, and the rest is history. Perhaps Tajiri understands that if he had beaten Guerrero, maybe he would have been in Guerrero’s privileged shoes, as one of those men considered for a slot in the Elimination Chamber match at SummerSlam. Paul London hasn’t been in the spotlight since WrestleMania XX. Prior to that event, London and his best friend Rey Mysterio were tag team partner and apart of the scheduled Ultimate TLC Match at WrestleMania for the U.S. and Tag Team Championships. But on the SmackDown before WrestleMania, Matt Hardy V.1 viciously attacked Paul London and London was excluded from the Ultimate TLC Match, while Matt Hardy took London’s spot and teamed with Mysterio during the unprecedented bout. Tonight, General Manager Stephanie McMahon understands the current circumstances of these two men and because of that, she has given one of them a chance to make an impact. Though, Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero, Jr. are heading the contention for the Cruiserweight Championship, a victory here would mean something. In the end, it’s Paul London who pulls off the win, but by disqualification. Paul London hits a super kick on Tajiri, and he goes up and prepares for a Shooting Star Press it seems. Then suddenly, Sakoda gets on the ring apron, grabs Paul London by the tights and he yanks him down off the turnbuckle. London hits the ground with force and the referee calls for the bell to be rang. Tajiri is disqualified. Akio, who came down with Sakoda lifts Paul London up and rolls him into the ring. Paul London tries to get to his feet, but Tajiri kicks him on the side of the head with the Buzzsaw Kick. Sakoda then lifts London and places him on his shoulder. Akio goes to the top, and he jumps off the turnbuckle, and knocks Paul London off of Sakoda’s shoulders, imitating the Road Warriors and the Dudley Boyz. Tajiri is pleased with this and he smiles maniacally. Then Tajiri takes one of Sakoda and Akio’s hands and he raises them in victory. “I can’t believe this. Tajiri has aligned himself with Akio and Sakoda!” Then suddenly the Cruiserweight Champion Ultimo Dragon runs down the ramp to the ring. Ultimo Dragon slides in, looking for action, but Tajiri and his new henchmen make it out of the ring in time. Then Tajiri’s music hits and he, Akio, and Sakoda make their way back up the ramp pleased and successful in their efforts.
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Backstage, the cameras are in the hallway. Moments later the door opens, and Bill Goldberg comes into the arena. Bill Goldberg doesn’t have a gym bag or anything, he’s dressed casually. The crowd pops at the sight of Goldberg, and although he isn’t scheduled to wrestle here tonight, Michael Cole and Tazz are not surprised by Goldberg’s presence. Todd Grisham stops Goldberg as he makes his way down the hallway, presumably for a quick interview. As Goldberg stops, the fans begin to chant Goldberg’s name. Todd Grisham says, “Goldberg, tonight you aren’t expected to wrestle, so one can assume that you’re here to take Jamie Noble up on his offer.” Goldberg replies, “That’s right, Todd. One can assume anything he wants … but that doesn’t mean its right. I haven’t made my decision yet, but I will before this night is over. All I can say is that if I do decide to pay Noble his price, whatever it is, for the ‘helpful information’, then I promise things are going to get a little interesting around here. You wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve dodged FBI planned hits over this past week, and someone’s going to pay for everything I’m going through, whether I get the information from Noble or not. No excuse me.” The crowd begins cheering and Bill Goldberg continues into the arena. Goldberg has arrived.
Backstage, the Basham Brothers and Shaniqua are in Stephanie McMahon’s office. Stephanie McMahon isn’t there, and the Basham Brothers have grown restless. Then Doug and Danny sit down on Mrs. McMahon’s couch. “Get your asses up!” Danny and Doug Basham jump up and the fans begin laughing. “How y’all just gone sit on the woman’s couch?” Shaniqua continues saying. Moments later, Kurt Angle walks into the room. Kurt Angle says, “Shaniqua, Danny, Doug, what’s up? What can I do ya for?” Danny Basham begins, “Yes, we wanted to talk about --” Shaniqua cuts Danny off and jumps at him. Shaniqua then tells Kurt, “Actually, we’re here to see Stephanie McMahon; you know the General Manager.” Kurt Angle goes, “Well, I’m the next best thing.” “Oh, she has another assistant?” Shaniqua asks. Kurt chuckles and goes, “Look, I think I can help you with your problem, whatever it is. So spit it out.” Doug Basham is chewing gum and he grabs Kurt’s hand and is about to spit his gum in Kurt’s hand before Shaniqua smacks him hard on the head. “Don’t be stupid, Doug –- As a matter of fact, wait outside!” Doug Basham starts out and Shaniqua says, “You too, Danny.” Both Bashams leave the office to wait outside. Shaniqua gets down to business and says, “Look, my boys beat Bubba and D-Von tonight and that should qualify us for a title shot. Now I’ve been gone on Raw for a minute, and since then my boys have been treated badly by your wife, with all due respect. Now all that’s over. So how about it? Next week, we get a title shot.” Kurt Angle thinks and moment and then concludes, “All right, I’ll think about it. I don’t like to make decisions right off the bat, so give me time and you’ll know. But just in case, be prepared to wrestle next week. All right? That sounds good?” “It sounds okay. Just okay,” Shaniqua says. After that, she leaves the room. For some reason she smacks Doug Basham on the head and then directs them both out of the camera view.
The cameras go to the arena and Rob Van Dam’s music hits. The fans immediately begin to boo and moments later, ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ comes out. Rob Van Dam seems to be a fair mood, and if you’re Rob Van Dam, how could you not be? Rob Van Dam’s a former World Heavyweight Champion from Raw, and now he’s on SmackDown. He has a guaranteed spot in the SummerSlam Elimination Chamber match for the WWE title and tonight he faces the champion, Chris Benoit. Rob Van Dam, though, isn’t received well by the fans. Last week, along with Kurt Angle and John “Bradshaw” Layfield, Rob Van Dam made an impact and beat down on Chris Benoit and Eddie Guerrero. This week, ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ will meet the WWE Champion … up close and personal. When Chris Benoit’s music hits, the crowd stands to its feet and cheers louder than it’s cheered tonight. Chris Benoit is an amazingly popular WWE Champion and the fans appreciate Benoit’s fortitude and intensity. Earlier tonight, Stephanie McMahon dispatched her assistant Johnny Smoove to warn Benoit of consequences of interfering in the main-event triple threat match. Chris Benoit made it clear that he wouldn’t be threatened, and Mrs. McMahon could have been pleased to receive the report of what Benoit had to say. Tonight, two men who currently have slots reserved for the SummerSlam Elimination Chamber match will meet. Chris Benoit and Rob Van Dam do battle fiercely and the action is back and forth. In the last 10 minutes of the match, Chris Benoit has Rob Van Dam in the Sharpshooter. The crowd is cheering wildly, and it seems Mr. Van Dam is on the verge of tapping out to the Rabid Wolverine. But that isn’t so. Rob Van Dam lifts his upper body and he begins to crawl. Rob Van Dam struggles to make it to the ropes and then he finally does! Chris Benoit smiles and he tightens the grip and drags Rob Van Dam to the center of the ring. Benoit has brought Van Dam to the center of the ring; still holding in the Sharpshooter submission and surely now Rob Van Dam will tap. Rob Van Dam rives in pain, and there’s nowhere to go. Then Rob Van Dam lifts his upper body, and with a purpose. Rob Van Dam then uses every bit of leg strength he has and he throws Benoit off. Rob Van Dam and Benoit are tangled for a second, and Van Dam takes the imitative, grabs Benoit’s legs, gets up and he places the champion in the Sharpshooter! The crowd begins to cheer for Benoit, and Rob Van Dam takes great pleasure in inflicting so much pain on the WWE champion. That pain is clearly writ all over the face of Chris Benoit as he struggles to get the ropes. The crowd comes together after seconds of completely botching a chant, and then begins to let out a collective “Benoit” chant. The fans chant and chant, and then Chris Benoit begins to move. Benoit itches and itches to the ropes, and then he finally makes it. Chris Benoit gets there, and Rob Van Dam tries to drag Benoit to the center of the ring, giving Benoit a dose of his own medicine. Chris Benoit grabs hold of the ropes and he doesn’t let go. Chris Benoit eventually kicks Rob Van Dam off of him and Van Dam flies half way across the ring. Chris Benoit and Rob Van Dam get up, but it’s Benoit that turns around first. Benoit takes off, and a second later, so does Van Dam after turning around. The two execute clotheslines and collide in the center of the ring! The fans cheer boisterously at the great action put on by the two main-event athletes, but not it’s time to rest and collect their energy. Moments later, after another “Benoit” chant, both Chris Benoit and Rob Van Dam begin to get up. Chris Benoit and Rob Van Dam turn around and Rob Van Dam hits Benoit with a punch. Benoit comes back with a thunderous punch of his own, and then Rob Van Dam comes back with a punch. Chris Benoit then grabs Benoit’s head and he punches him. Chris Benoit then takes his hand and he chops Van Dam across the chest. Chris Benoit then takes it to Rob Van Dam with punches to the face and chops to the chest. Eventually, Benoit backs Van Dam up against the ropes. Benoit sends Van Dam to the ropes. Rob Van Dam comes back, and Benoit bends down, looking to catch Van Dam with an offensive move. Rob Van Dam counters, flipping/rolling over Chris Benoit’s back and landing on his feet. Benoit turns around and Rob Van Dam does for a standing, spinning kick, but Benoit ducks. Chris Benoit then grabs Rob Van Dam and he goes for a German suplex. Rob Van Dam places his leg behind Benoit’s to stop the German suplex process. Then Chris Benoit takes his arm and clubs Van Dam over the back twice. Benoit tightens the grip and he drills Rob Van Dam into the mat with a “beautiful German”, as Tazz describes it. Chris Benoit doesn’t stop there; no. Chris Benoit gets up and he lifts Van Dam up and gives him another “magnificent German suplex”, as Michael Cole describes it. Chris Benoit gets up again with Van Dam and he gives him a third German suplex. Chris Benoit gets up and he does the cutthroat taunt, signaling for the diving head butt finisher. Chris Benoit begins to move to the corner, but then he goes back to Rob Van Dam, lifts him up and he gives him a fourth German suplex! Chris Benoit then does another, this time slow cutthroat taunt, and emphatically says it is over and time for the diving head butt finisher. Chris Benoit goes up and moments later, he dives off the turnbuckle and goes for the head butt. It looks like Benoit might make it, but then Rob Van Dam rolls backwards out of harm’s way. Rob Van Dam gets up and he smiles. He’s obviously hurt from the Germans, but not enough to take a diving head butt. Benoit struggles to get up swiftly, and when he does. Rob Van Dam runs and he goes for a clothesline. Benoit ducks, lifts Van Dam and throws him out of the ring, only Van Dam lands on his feet, on the ring apron. Chris Benoit has his back turned to Van Dam, but Van Dam grabs Benoit’s neck, and forcefully drives the back of it against the third rope. Rob Van Dam then gets into the ring. Chris Benoit holds his neck and wanders off, before turning back around, regaining some of his senses. Benoit turns around, and he meets Rob Van Dam’s spinning heel kick. Rob Van Dam gets up and he runs to the ropes, comes back and hits the Rolling Thunder on Chris Benoit. The fans cheer this move, showing that they don’t particularly care for his attitude, but they enjoy his wrestling. Rob Van Dam gets up and he looks around. It seems it’s time for “Mr. Thursday Night” to hit the Five Star Frog Splash. Rob Van Dam goes to the corner, goes up, and he looks around again. Then Chris Benoit begins getting up. This spoils Van Dam’s Five Star aspirations, so he switches gear, and gets in position for his diving kick to the chest. Then suddenly Benoit takes off, and hits the ropes. Rob Van Dam’s balance is compromised and he falls down in no man’s land, hurting his crotch. Chris Benoit is still tired from the offensive moves of Van Dam, but he musters up the energy and handles business. Chris Benoit goes over to Rob Van Dam, gets up in the corner with him and it seems Benoit will attempt a superplex. Then Rob Van Dam punches Benoit in the gut three times. Rob Van Dam pushes Benoit off the top rope, and Benoit hits the mat with force, but he doesn’t say there. Benoit gets up shortly after and Rob Van Dam jumps off the top and goes for the diving kick to the chest. Chris Benoit moves to the side, and when Van Dam’s feet touch the mat, Benoit quickly grab Van Dam’s arm and he bring him to the ground. Chris Benoit struggles to lock in the Crippler Cross-face, but he finally does! Chris Benoit has the Cross-face submission locked and Van Dam is seemingly miles away from the ropes, and safety. Rob Van Dam yells out in pain, but there’s nowhere to go. Chris Benoit pulls and pulls even more, and finally “Mr. Thursday Night” places his hand out and taps to the Crippler Cross-face! Then the bell rings and Howard Finkel proudly says, “Ladies and gentlemen, winner of this match, Chris Benoit!” Benoit’s music plays and he’s given his WWE title belt. Chris Benoit gets to his feet and he gets on the turnbuckle and lifts up his WWE title belt. Chris Benoit is proud of his victory, and here tonight Chris Benoit defeated Rob Van Dam, in the first time, in a year. Chris Benoit gets out of the ring and he shakes hands with a couple of fans before beginning to make his way up the ramp way. WWE champion Chris Benoit has defeated “Mr. Thursday Night” Rob Van Dam. On that note, SmackDown cuts to commercials.
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Backstage, Stephanie McMahon’s assistant Johnny Smoove is walking through the hallway. Smoove has his head held high. Johnny Smoove walks up to a group of SmackDown superstars, Hardcore Holly, Rico, and Garrison Cade. Johnny Smoove clears his throat and Garrison Cade and Rico move out of the way, but Hardcore Holly does not. Hardcore Holly stands in Smoove’s way and says, “It looks like you might b goin’ someplace. Are you?” “You’re damn right I am. I’m going to Stephanie McMahon, my boss’s office!” Smoove snaps. Hardcore Holly then says, “Well, I tell you what Mr. Hot Shot Assistant, I ain’t movin’ until you show a little manners.” Johnny Smoove looks at Garrison Cade and Rico and says, “Hey! Cade, Rico, tell your buddy to get out of my way. He doesn’t know who he’s dealing with.” Garrison Cade walks away and Rico comes over. Rico says, “I don’t know Johnny Boy. I’m feeling sooooooooooooooooooo much negative tension coming from you. Maybe you need to calm down and say the magic ‘P’ word. Umm?” Johnny Smoove thinks for a second and then he turns around and walks away. Hardcore Holly and Rico start laughing and Rico throws his hand up for a high-five and Holly high-fives Rico.
Then the cameras go to the ring where SmackDown play-by-play announcer Michael Cole is standing in the ring. Cole says, “Ladies and gentlemen, the week of anticipation is at an end. Last week on SmackDown, the Doctor of Thuganomics and 2004 King of the Ring John Cena was attacked backstage by an unknown assailant. It’s my duty tonight to give an update on Cena’s condition. So without any further ado --” Then the bell sounds and the fans begin booing as they look to the titantron and see the video promo starting up. Then the theme song begins in full swing and it’s obvious who is making his way out to the ring … John “Bradshaw” Layfield. Moments later, JBL’s limousine pulls from out the side of the SmackDown titantron and stops on the side of the aisle. Enrique gets out and he goes to the passenger’s door and opens it. Moments later JBL steps out, in his ring entrance attire. JBL has on his cowboy hat, towel around his neck, and sports jacket on. JBL takes off his hat and he throws both arms up with a great big smile on his face. JBL goes to the ring with great anticipation. JBL gets in the ring and he snatches the microphone from Michael Cole. JBL says, “Michael Cole, Michael Cole, buddy. You’re excused.” Michael Cole mouths, “What?” JBL then says, “You heard what I had to say, get your ass out of the room. You’re excused.” Michael Cole then turns around and begins walking but JBL calls to him. Cole turns around and JBL takes the folder away from him. JBL says, “Thank you, Michael Cole. Ladies and gentlemen, right here on SmackDown, I, John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield will announce the update on John Cena’s condition. And it’ll be right after this short commercial break.”
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Backstage, Goldberg is wandering the halls. He has a piece of paper in his hands and he looks down often, as he turns corners and looks up at door signs. Finally, Goldberg reaches a door on his left hand, and it holds some interest. Goldberg looks at the sign that reads “Women’s Restroom”. Goldberg touches the sign lightly and then he rips it off and a key falls to the ground. Goldberg squats down, picks up the key and smiles. He opens the door with the key and wanders around. Goldberg locks the door behind him and he goes into one of the stalls. There’s a pouring sound coming from the stall and it can be assumed that Goldberg is handling business. Moments later the toilet flushes and Goldberg walks out of the stall with another piece of paper. Goldberg washes his hands and he goes to the door and opens it and walks out. Goldberg turns left and heads down the hallway. Then the camera focuses on Billy Kidman and Orlando Jordan, who just witnessed Goldberg just leaving the ladies’ room. Billy Kidman remarks, “Gee, I knew he was a punk. I didn’t know he already gotten the operation to turn him into a real woman.” Orlando Jordan laughs and the cameras fades out.
The cameras go to the ring where John “Bradshaw” Layfield’s music is playing and JBL is standing with a microphone in one hand a folder in the other. JBL’s music cuts and JBL begins to speak. JBL says, “Well, folks the time has finally come for me to give you an update on John Cena. Last week someone took Cena out and no one knows whom it was. But in this folder I have, are the details on Cena’s edition. I tell you what though, I won’t bore you with all the details and such, I’ll just get right down to the meat of it. John Cena is hurt, and unfortunately for you people, he’s hurt badly. It seems Mr. Cena will be missing some weeks’ action here on SmackDown. (boos from the crowd) Now last week John Cena suffered a severe concussion, and as a result, he’s at home licking his wounds, while the rest of us come to work everyday. For that reason, I’ve decided that I’m going to start a petition. This petition will say that since John Cena is hurt and hurt badly, that he should be respectfully stripped of the King of the Ring title, and that of course, means his slot in the SummerSlam Elimination Chamber should go elsewhere (major boos from the crowd). Now I’ve already arranged for this petition to be made; it was only a matter of coming out and announcing it. So without any other hesitation, please bring my petition out.” JBL waits pleasantly, but no one comes out. The crowd begins to chant “Cena” as JBL waits and waits. The crowd continues to chant and JBL grows inpatient. JBL barks, “Look, why don’t you idiot people shut up! I told you he’s hurt badly, he won’t be here. Look, I clearly directed for my petition to be made. Now one of you moronic stagehands had better come out here and deliver it. Now!” JBL begins waiting again and suddenly Chris Benoit’s music hits and the WWE Champion comes out with JBL’s petition! The crowd cheers wildly and Benoit smiles as he stops midway on the ramp, places his WWE title belt around his waist and then holds up JBL’s petition. Benoit takes the papers from the clipboard and he looks directly at John “Bradshaw” Layfield. Then Chris Benoit proceeds to rip them up! JBL is shocked and he gets on the microphone and berates Benoit, “Listen to me you toothless excuse for a champion. What did you do? I ought to –- Ooh, I ought to beat the hell out --” JBL throws down the microphone when he sees Chris Benoit runs down to the ring. JBL is dumbfounded and doesn’t know what to do. Then suddenly, JBL jumps out of the ring when Benoit slides in. JBL begins to smile as he rushes to the end of the ramp. JBL mouths, “You stupid son of a bitch.” Moments later, McMahon assistant Johnny Smoove come out on the stage with 10 security personnel with a microphone. Smoove says, “Security, you are to apprehend Chris Benoit! On orders of Stephanie McMahon, apprehend him and if he even thinks about resisting arrest, I have people by the phones and they are instructed to call the proper authorities. And then Chris Benoit’s toothless as can spend the night in jail!” The security guys surround the ring and Chris Benoit gets a microphone and says, “Hey, Johnny, you can’t do better than this, huh? You send these asswipes out here. I tell you what, boy, I’m the WWE champion, I leave on my own right.” Benoit drops the microphone and gets out of the ring. Benoit warns the security guards not to touch him and he begins making his way up the ramp way. Benoit jumps at JBL and JBL begins to jump, but he stops himself and mocks Benoit. Chris Benoit reach the stage and he stares a mean and long stare at Stephanie McMahon’s assistant Johnny Smoove. Benoit finally leaves and JBL’s music hits and John “Bradshaw” Layfield walks around the ring and sits down with Michael Cole and Tazz at the SmackDown announce position. JBL shakes hands with Tazz and he looks at Michael Cole, who it extends his hand, and then sits down. JBL explains, “Look, if you don’t mind, Tazz, I’m just gonna sit down and kill some time until my main-event match tonight. By the way, in a matter of 20 minutes, I’ll be the U.S. Champion. Eddie might as well bring me my belt now.” “I think you might be a little ahead of yourself there, JBL. But folks don’t anywhere, more SmackDown after this commercial break.”
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Backstage, when SmackDown returns, Goldberg is once again wandering the halls of the arena. While Goldberg walks through the halls, he constantly looks down on the paper, and it can be assumed that the paper is giving him directions. Goldberg walks through the hall doors and he walks into the lobby. Goldberg speaks to a couple of merchandise and concession stand workers and then he walks out of the front doors and in front of the arena. Goldberg walks down the steps and down by the street. Goldberg looks at the paper again and mumbles to himself, “Wait for 10 seconds … 9:37”. Goldberg stands there and waits, looking at his watch. And one second late, a taxi cab pulls up on the curb. The person in the back of the car pays the driver and gets out. As expected, it’s Jamie Noble. Goldberg remarks, “You’re late.” Noble smirks and he says, “Let’s get down to business, shall we?” Goldberg asks, “So what’s the price, Noble?” Noble replies, “I think a considerable fee would be in order for the information I’m about to give you Mr. Goldberg.” “How much?” Goldberg asks. To which Jamie Noble says, “I’ll let you decide. You’re a reasonable man I can tell.” Goldberg pulls out a heft wad of money held together by a golden clip. “I figured this is what you wanted,” says Goldberg as he hands Jamie Noble the money. Jamie Noble places the money in his jacket pocket and gets down to the core of the situation. Jamie Noble begins by saying, “First off, the FBI hasn’t even been trying to ‘hit’ you Goldberg. Sure they’ve been attacking you week after week, but trust me, these guys have serious Mafia roots, and they know how to dispose of someone if they wanted to. It seems, Goldberg, that whoever put out the hit on you, they’re just playing with you know. You know, cat and mouse. But I hear that may change soon. I don’t know when, or where, but it’ll happen soon.” “What?” Goldberg asks. “I don’t know when, but the FBI’ll get the order to put you on the shelf … permanently. They’re only playing softball now.” “Son of a bitch,” Goldberg mutters. Jamie Noble continues, “And this person is paying the FBI huge cash, Bill. I’m talking serious cash. After all, you’ll be Goldberg and whoever put out the hit knows this is a night and day job, so they know they’re getting their monies worth.” Goldberg asks, “Well do you know who this person is Noble?” “Not necessarily, Goldberg. But all I know is that you’re playing with someone big and powerful. And I mean big and powerful, Bill. This is someone who maybe knows you real well and knows their way around the block. But that’s it.” Goldberg asks Noble, “But where can I find this ‘powerful’ person, Jamie?” “All I can tell you is that it’s corporate power. Someone with brains and money. Lots of it.” Goldberg then says, “So, you mean to tell me that it isn’t Rhyno.” “Rhyno hates your guts, and although he’d like to take credit for it, Pffft, this guy doesn’t have the brains or cash to be behind this. But it’s going to surprise the hell out of you, I’m sure of that, Bill.” Goldberg says, “Damn, looks like I’m in sure a helluva struggle, huh?” Jamie Noble says, “That’s the way everything is, Bill, complicated.” Jamie Noble turns around and calls for a taxi cab. “Nice doing business with you, Bill.” A cab stops and Jamie Noble opens the door and begins to get in. “Thanks”, Goldberg says before Noble gets into the car. “Yeah”, Jamie Noble replies. Noble closes the door and the taxi cab takes off from in front of the arena.
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When SmackDown returns, cameras go to Michael Cole, Tazz, and John “Bradshaw” Layfield at ringside.
Michael Cole: Folks, strange things keep happening on SmackDown. I mean, if JBL’s trying to strip John Cena of duly won King of the Ring title wasn’t enough, surely what we saw before the break was.
JBL: I hate you, Michael Cole, and I’ll ignore what you said first. I’m an honorable. And as far as what happened between Jamie Noble and Bill Goldberg, that ‘Godfather’ theme song is playing in my head right now. I tell you what, there’s no greater wrestling show in the world than SmackDown. This show is phenomenal. God bless everyone for their efforts to make this show great.
Tazz: Well, Mr. Layfield ain’t exaggerating when he says that, folks. In fact, SmackDown was the #1 rated show on all of television last week.
Michael Cole: But getting back to SmackDown here, strange and startling things have also happened in the cruiserweight division here tonight. I mean, Chavo Guerrero defeated Rey Mysterio thanks to his father and newest SmackDown superstar, Chavo Guerrero Sr.!
Tazz: I thought he looked familiar, Cole. I thought he did. I tell you one thing, with three Guerreros on SmackDown, things are going to get pretty interesting around here.
JBL: If by ‘interesting’, you mean this show will be berating by thievery, lies, and cheating, then you’re right, Tazz. You hit it right on the freaking head. But what about Tajiri seizing an opportunity and aligning himself with the impressive young Japanese athletes, Akio and Sakoda? Boy that Tajiri reminds me of myself at some point, and I’m sure Tajiri has a Cruiserweight, and hell, maybe even a United States title run in his future. But of course, that won’t happen while I’m United States Champion, after I win the belt here tonight.
Michael Cole: That indeed did happen, and the WWE champion Chris Benoit defeated ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ Rob Van Dam!
Tazz: Benoit made the poor man tap out to the Crippler Cross-face, and I’m sure ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ will have a little something to say next week on SmackDown.
Michael Cole: And not to mention the update that was given on John Cena’s medical condition here tonight --
JBL: Given by me, John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield. I announced tonight that Cena was hurt badly and it would be wise for the McMahon Administration to strip Cena of the King of the Ring title.
Michael Cole: Mr. Layfield even had a petition made out, which was ripped up on the ramp way by Chris Benoit and led to JBL running from the WWE champion.
JBL: As successful as I am, Cole, you can bet that I’ll have some chump whip me up another one. That toothless disgrace can’t stop success and ambition. JBL will be here next week on SmackDown with a brand new, and improved petition. Now excuse me, I’m going to go to the ring and prepare for my U.S. title win.
JBL gets up and he begins to walk away and Tazz continues.
Michael Cole: Well, folks, who will leave tonight’s show as United States Champion? Will it be the champion, Eddie Guerrero, Kurt Angle, or --
JBL walks back and says.
JBL: I couldn’t help but here your question, and I’ll save you the trouble and answer it. John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield is leaving tonight as United States champion; I guarantee it!
JBL leaves once again and Michael Cole and Tazz continue.
Tazz: Well, thank you, JBL. (does trademark cackle)
Michael Cole: Well, coming up next folks, the WWE U.S. championship will be on the line when Eddie Guerrero defends the gold in a triple threat match against allies John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield and Kurt Angle.
Tazz: Don’t be a smart ass, Cole.
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When SmackDown returns the main-event is next. On the July 8th edition of SmackDown, Eddie Guerrero will defend the United States Championship against John “Bradshaw” Layfield and Kurt Angle, in a triple threat match. Critics, like play-by-play announcer Michael Cole would say that the three-day match is a glorified handicap match, since it was JBL and Angle, along with Rob Van Dam who assaulted Chris Benoit and Eddie Guerrero on last week’s SmackDown. This match came to be because of the champion Eddie Guerrero. Guerrero challenged JBL to a match on tonight’s SmackDown for the U.S. title at a house show in Seattle, WA. It was not JBL that came out and reacted to Eddie’s challenged but the ‘Olympic Hero’ Kurt Angle. That lead to heated and fighting words being exchanged between and as a result SmackDown General Manager Stephanie McMahon gave Guerrero what he wanted and more: a three-way dance. Earlier tonight, the world witnessed the reaction of John “Bradshaw” Layfield to the main-event. JBL didn’t take well to the idea and he confronted Mrs. McMahon and Kurt Angle about it. But somehow assured JBL that the advantage was still in his column. Since then, JBL has been proclaiming all night that when the smokes clear, he’ll be the United States champion. When SmackDown returns from the final commercial break, JBL is already in the ring after having waited with Michael Cole and Tazz to “kill some time.” JBL is incredibly confident and that shows all over his face with what Tazz describes as, “that successful, toothy grin.” The match gets underway after Kurt Angle and current champion Eddie Guerrero make their way down, and it seems as though Michael Cole’s prediction was right: it’s a glorified handicap match. Kurt Angle and JBL double team Eddie Guerrero, both wanting to assure that if anything, Guerrero doesn’t leave with the belt, adding another niche to his contention for the SummerSlam Elimination Chamber match. In the last ten minutes of the match, Eddie Guerrero is beginning to come back. After clobbering JBL and Angle with a double clothesline, Eddie Guerrero shakes his shoulders and begins to get down. JBL and Kurt get up again and Eddie runs and clotheslines JBL. He then turns and goes to Kurt Angle, punches him three times, backs up and he clotheslines him over the top, and out of the ring. Eddie Guerrero turns around and JBL is getting up. Guerrero goes to JBL and he punches JBL three times. Guerrero sends JBL to the ropes. JBL comes back and Eddie lifts him up with a backdrop or overhead toss. JBL gets back up, holding his back, and Eddie Guerrero kicks him in the mid-section and goes for a suplex, maybe trying to kick off those Three Amigos triple suplexes. Eddie lifts JBL and JBL counters, and jumps behind Guerrero. JBL clubs Guerrero in the head, and grabs him and gives Guerrero a back suplex. JBL covers Eddie Guerrero, but Eddie gets the shoulder up before the count of three. JBL gets up and he stretches his arms, smiles, executing the trademark JBL pose. The crowd boos JBL and JBL turns around. Guerrero tries to get to his feet and JBL begins to stomp the living hell out of Guerrero. JBL grabs hold of Guerrero and lifts him up. JBL takes Guerreros’ head and punches him back down to the mat. JBL then runs to the ropes and he comes back and goes for an elbow drop. Guerrero moves out of the way, and JBL misses the elbow drop. Guerrero gets up, obviously tired, and he chops JBL on the chest four times, as he gets up. Eddie Guerrero grabs JBL and he lays three punches on him, shakes his shoulders and lays a fourth hard punch to JBL. JBL hits the mat, and Eddie Guerrero lifts JBL up and kicks him in the mid-section. Guerrero lifts him up and he hits a suplex. Eddie Guerrero lifts JBL up again and he executes another suplex. Eddie Guerrero gets up again, looking to finalize Three Amigos, but then JBL elbows Eddie Guerrero in the back of the head. Guerrero looks dazed afterwards, and JBL lays five moves elbows to the back of Eddie Guerrero’s head and JBL breaks free. Eddie Guerrero staggers a bit, and JBL collects himself. John “Bradshaw” Layfield goes to the ropes and he comes back, as Eddie turns around. JBL smiles and he almost takes the champion’s head off with his finisher, the Clothesline from Hell! JBL seems to have it all wrapped up now, and JBL covers Eddie Guerrero. The referee gets down and counts, 1-2 -- And then suddenly, Kurt Angle pulls JBL’s leg and yanks him out of the ring! Kurt Angle slides into the ring, showing his true, U.S. title hungry colors and covers Guerrero for himself. Then JBL slides into the ring and he kicks Kurt Angle on the back of Kurt’s neck. JBL lifts Kurt Angle and he runs to the ropes, comes back and he goes for a big boot. Kurt Angle grabs JBL’s leg and takes him down, and locks in the Angle Lock! The crowd stands to its feet, not in support of Angle, but because of the suspense. Here we are at the end, and Angle has JBL in the Angle Lock; why it must be the end! Kurt Angle twists JBL’s ankle and JBL cries out in awful agony. Meanwhile, Guerrero, acting on a prayer, because at any second JBL could tap, crawls to the corner. Guerrero goes up, and at that time, Kurt Angle lies down on the mat with JBL’s leg, in the more dramatic, suspenseful stage of Angle’s submission. Then Eddie Guerrero jumps off the top rope and nails the Frog Splash on Kurt Angle, as he’s locking the submission! Kurt immediately lets go, and too bad for Angle. Nearly a second after Angle clearly breaks the hold, JBL taps out. Eddie Guerrero is hurt from the Frog Splash he delivered to Angle, and Kurt is out of it. JBL comes to his senses and he slowly gets to his feet. So does Eddie. Eddie is groggier of the two though. Eddie turns around and JBL suddenly kicks him in the mid-section, lifts him up and plants Eddie Guerrero with a powerbomb! JBL falls onto Eddie Guerrero for the cover, and the referee gets down. Kurt Angle gets up, but he’s too late, and in three seconds, we have a new United States champion! Then JBL’s music hits, and the crowd begin booing boisterously. JBL gets to his feet and the referee presents John “Bradshaw” Layfield with the U.S. title belt. JBL smiles and he unbuckles the belt and holds it up vertically, in its full length. Kurt Angle turns over, still in pain and extremely disappointed. JBL gets out of the ring and he rests the title belt on his shoulder. JBL makes the slow walk up the ramp and his limousine pulls out from the side of the titantron. JBL gets in the car, and moments later, he comes up from the sun roof of the limousine and smiles, holding his title high in the air! The fans boo JBL and a quite a few throw trash in JBL’s direction, but there’s nothing they can do about it. John “Bradshaw” Layfield guaranteed victory and he delivered with an impact. “Ladies and gentlemen, John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield has made me a believer. I wasn’t a full believer, but I was gettin’ there. I’m there now. I’m a believer in JBL. Like it or not, Michael Cole and everyone else, John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield is our new United States champion! This is a great day for America! I’m a believer!” color analyst Tazz exclaims as SmackDown goes off the air!
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© 2004 – Mr.McMahon’s WWE Season II
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Thursday, July 8, 2004
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Before the opening SmackDown video and theme song hits, a promo is shown from the main-event of last week’s SmackDown. In the conclusion of that match, John “Bradshaw” Layfield interfered in the match on behalf of Kurt Angle and Rob Van Dam. The three men beat down on Chris Benoit and Eddie Guerrero. They stood firmly in the center of the ring, united and dominant. But also footage of the eerie assault on 2004 King of the Ring, John Cena by an unknown assailant. Then the opening SmackDown video and theme songs hits and after it wraps up, the cameras go to the Amelia Park Ice Arena in Hartford, CT. The cameras switch to different sections of the arena and the fans cheer and flash their signs, in anticipation for a great night of WWE action. The cameras then go to Michael Cole and Tazz at ringside.
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Michael Cole: Hello ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to WWE SmackDown! Michael Cole and Tazz here at ringside, and it’s expected to be quite a night here on SmackDown.
Tazz: Lemme tell ya, folks, there’s been some great matches put together by Stephanie McMahon and tonight’s going to be off the charts!
Michael Cole: Right here tonight, Eddie Guerrero will defend the United States title in a triple threat match with John “Bradshaw” Layfield and Kurt Angle.
Tazz: That’s what Guerrero asked for, and that’s what he got.
Michael Cole: Guerrero actually asked for a match against JBL, but anyway, also tonight, ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ Rob Van Dam meets WWE Champion Chris Benoit in a singles match.
Tazz: That’s expected to be quite a contest, I tell you. Also my partner here, Michael ‘Shoelace’ Cole will give an updated on the condition of John Cena here tonight.
Michael Cole: That’s correct, folks. All that and more, here tonight, on SmackDown!
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Backstage, cameras catch the live footage as WWE Champion Chris Benoit arrives at the arena. There is an initial pop from the crowd, as Benoit comes walking in the direction of the camera. Then Josh Matthews catches up with the champion and he asks him, “Chris Benoit, tonight Eddie Guerrero will defend the U.S. title in a triple threat match against JBL and Kurt Angle. How do you feel about this, since it seems it’ll be a glorified handicap match?” Chris Benoit adjusts his WWE title belt on his shoulder and he replies, “Well, I’m not that concerned about Eddie Guerrero’s match, or anyone else’s match for that matter. Tonight, I got my own match against (mockingly) ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ Rob Van Dam. And tonight, I’m going show Van Dam who really is ‘Mr. Thursday Night’. That man is me, the Rabid Wolverine, and the reigning WWE Champion, Chris Benoit!” Chris Benoit begins to leave when a guy walks up in a suit. He says to Chris Benoit, “Look, Benoit, Mrs. McMahon has told me to tell you that if you interfere in the main-event tonight, you’ll be suspended for three weeks.” To which Benoit replies, “Who in God’s name are you?” The man says, “I’m Johnny Smoove, Stephanie McMahon’s new assistant.” Chris Benoit then says, “Well let me tell you something Johnny, I won’t interfere in the main-event tonight, but if I happen to feel like it, I will. I do what I want to do, when I want to do it, because I’m the WWE Champion. So you go back and tell Stephanie McMahon exactly what I said.” Johnny Smoove twists his mouth and then he leaves. Chris Benoit smirks and then he walks off as the crowd cheers.
Then the cameras go to the ring and two pyrotechnical blasts hit the titantron and the Dudley Boyz’ music hits and the WWE Tag Team Champions come out! Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley come out to huge cheers from the crowd. They go to the ring and in the first match, the Dudley Boyz are set to face the Basham Brothers in a non-title match. The cheers turn to boos as Danny and Doug Basham come out with Shaniqua behind them. Michael Cole and Tazz react surprisingly to this because Shaniqua was on Raw weeks ago, but apparently she’s back with the Basham Brothers. They get into the ring, the bell rings and the match begins. The match is dominated by the Basham Brothers due to the shady techniques of Shaniqua. The end of the sees: Doug Basham and Bubba Ray Dudley are in the ring. Bubba has just gotten the tag after a long isolation of D-Von Dudley by the Bashams. Bubba Ray Dudley sends Doug Basham to the ropes. Basham comes back and Bubba Ray lifts him up and drops him onto the mat with an overhead toss or back drop. Doug Basham gets back up and he turns around and Bubba Ray kicks Doug in the mid-section and he lifts him up and gives him a suplex. Danny Basham jumps into the ring and Bubba Ray Dudley kicks him in the mid-section, and he hits him with his “Bubba Combos”. Danny staggers and D-Von Dudley jumps into the ring and he runs, clotheslines Danny Basham over the third rope, going out of the ring with him. Doug Basham gets up and Bubba Ray places his attention back on Doug. Doug Basham turns around and Bubba Ray Dudley kicks him in the mid-section, turns him around and hits him with a Bubba Drop. Bubba Ray makes the cover, but then Shaniqua grabs Bubba Ray’s legs and pulls. Bubba Ray Dudley jumps up and he yells at the referee. Bubba then turns around and pays attention to Doug Basham. Shaniqua then throws her whip to Danny Basham who is getting up on the outside. The referee doesn’t see this and Danny takes the whip, which has a metallic head and hits D-Von Dudley in the lower back as he gets up. Danny Basham crawls into the ring and he runs and hits Bubba Ray Dudley in the back of the head. Bubba Ray Dudley at first staggers, and then Danny grabs Bubba and rolls him up. Danny and Doug make the switch and the fans begin to boo. Doug rolls out of the ring and Shaniqua gets down off the apron, as Danny Basham has an unconscious Bubba Ray rolled up. The referee turns around and gets down and counts the victory for the Basham Brothers! The Bashams’ music hits and Danny Basham rolls out of the ring and he and Shaniqua helps Doug Basham up, on the outside. The Basham Brothers and Shaniqua celebrate on the ramp, with their victory over the reigning WWE Tag Team Champions. D-Von Dudley rolls into the ring, holding his back and checks on his “brother” Bubba Ray Dudley.
Backstage, former Cruiserweight Champion Rey Mysterio is getting ready for his match against Chavo Guerrero up next after the break. Then Paul London walks into the room and Mysterio and London are good friends. Paul London walks up to Mysterio and he says, “What’s up, Rey? Hey, man, good luck on your match with Chavo Guerrero up next. I here he’s steaming after last week and looking forward to taking you out.” Rey Mysterio replies, “Yeah, man I know, but believe me, I’m ready for Chavo. Tonight, I’m going to end Chavo’s triumphant return before it ever begins.” Paul London begins to walk away and then Rey Mysterio calls out to London and says, “And by the way, good luck to you in your match against Tajiri tonight, Paul.” Paul London says, “I think you’d better wish Tajiri luck.” Rey Mysterio smiles and straightens up his mask and continues getting prepared. /// The cameras then go to the hall way, where Chavo Guerrero is getting prepared for his match against Rey Mysterio up next after the commercial break.
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When SmackDown returns, Rey Mysterio’s music hits. The crowd begins cheering and moments later, the Masked Mysterious One launches himself onto the stage! The crowd begins cheering even louder and Rey Mysterio begins to make his way to the ring. Mysterio gets into the ring, gets onto the turnbuckle and he poses for the crowd. Mysterio gets down and he goes to the next turnbuckle, goes up and the cameras in the arena begin to flash. Then suddenly, “Ooooohhh … Chavo!” Chavo Guerrero’s music hits and all the cheers immediately turn to boos. As Guerrero makes his entrance, footage is shown on the titantron. Last week on SmackDown, Chavo Guerrero made his first SmackDown appearance in months. Gene Okerlund’s interview with Chavo Guerrero led to a short backstage brawl between Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero. Tonight, they square off in the ring, hoping that a victory tonight would put them over the top and in position for a Cruiserweight title match. Chavo Guerrero’s music cuts and he and Rey Mysterio go at it. The match lasts about 14 minutes and the fans eat up every minute of it. In the end, Chavo Guerrero has Rey Mysterio in a sleeper hold. Chavo Guerrero applies more and more pressure on Mysterio’s neck as the second goes by. The crowd comes alive and they begin to chant Rey Mysterio’s name. Rey Mysterio begins to move, and Chavo realizes he has to stop the momentum before it kicks off. Chavo Guerrero tightens the grip and begins yanking at the neck of Rey Mysterio. Chavo Guerrero lets go for a second and he bends Mysterio, who is sitting down, over some and he clubs Mysterio’s upper back. Chavo Guerrero gets up and he lifts Rey Mysterio and throws him to the ropes. Chavo Guerrero arrogantly taunts the fans and then he runs and goes for a clothesline. Rey Mysterio moves out of the way, and Chavo Guerrero flies into the corner. Chavo staggers in the area and Rey Mysterio gets out of the ring, on the apron. Rey reaches over and he grabs Chavo’s neck and pulls it down on the third rope, with a guillotine. Chavo Guerrero bounces off the third rope and flies onto the mat. Rey Mysterio jumps on the third rope and launches himself into the ring, and onto Chavo Guerrero with a leg drop. Mysterio covers Chavo, but he kicks out before the count of three. Rey Mysterio takes a second to gather himself and so does Chavo Guerrero. Rey Mysterio gets up and Chavo turns around and Mysterio punches him three times. Rey sends Chavo to the ropes. Rey Mysterio bends down looking to catch Chavo, and Chavo Guerrero flips over Mysterio, trying to grab his legs for a roll up. Rey Mysterio breaks free, running back to the ropes. Mysterio comes back and he gives Chavo Guerrero a drop down dropkick, dropping onto the mat. Chavo flies down and Mysterio once again makes the cover, but Chavo Guerrero gets the arm up before the count of three. Rey Mysterio gets up and he stomps Chavo Guerrero. Rey Mysterio grabs Chavo and goes to lift him up, but Chavo elbows Mysterio in the gut. Chavo elbows Mysterio again, and he begins to rise to his feet. Chavo Guerrero makes it up and he punches Mysterio once. Rey punches back and Chavo lays a punch of his own on Rey. Chavo Guerrero throws another punch, but Rey catches it and punches Chavo in the face. The crowd comes alive and they can sense a revival. Rey Mysterio goes to town on Chavo Guerrero and he backs him up against the ropes. Rey Mysterio goes for an Irish whip, but then he doesn’t let go. Mysterio spins Chavo around, lifts him up and throws him, gut first on the third rope! Chavo Guerrero hangs there for a while, as the fans cheer. Rey then grabs Chavo’s legs and takes a page out of Hardcore Holly’s book and kicks Chavo Guerrero in the gut. Rey Mysterio lets go and Chavo Guerrero drops down to his knees, holding his mid-section. Chavo Guerrero then gets up and takes off. Rey trips Guerrero up, and he lands on the second rope. Mysterio calls for the 6-1-9 and the fans begin cheering. Rey Mysterio runs to the ropes, goes between them and nails the 6-1-9! Chavo Guerrero bounces near the center of the ring and Rey Mysterio calls for the West Coast Pop! Then suddenly, Mysterio turns his attention to the audience. Suddenly, a fan jumps out of the audience wearing a suit. Mysterio is distracted, and Chavo Guerrero regains his senses. He goes over, and clubs Mysterio over the back. He then grabs him in a suplex position, and lifts Mysterio from the outside to the in, in a suplex position. Then suddenly, Chavo Guerrero drops Mysterio to the mat with a violent brainbuster DDT! Chavo makes the cover and the referee counts his victory! Then Chavo Guerrero’s music hits and he gets out of the ring and embraces the fan that distracted Rey Mysterio. Surprisingly enough, there is no attempt on the security personnel’s behalf to apprehend the man. Chavo Guerrero and the unknown man celebrate on their way back. Chavo Guerrero has stolen a victory over Rey Mysterio here tonight on SmackDown.
Backstage, Gene Okerlund is standing by with ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ Rob Van Dam. Gene Okerlund asks Rob Van Dam, “What do you think about our WWE Champion, Chris Benoit?” Rob Van Dam replies, “I’m not going to put up some big defensive wall here, if that’s what you were expecting, okay Gene. So, I’ll come out and say what I feel, yeah, I guess do respect Chris Benoit. There’s no denying what the man has accomplished as WWE Champion. I mean, he’s beaten Brock Lesnar, Kurt Angle, and Eddie Guerrero, everyone that’s been thrown at him. But there’s one man that I know he hasn’t faced, Rob Van Dam.” Gene Okerlund says, “Well, Mr. Van Dam I don’t know if that’s exactly true. Last year around June, you were the Intercontinental Champion over on the Raw Brand. Your memory may have failed you, but I remember Chris Benoit beating you at Bad Blood last year, in 2003.” “Well, if you had let me finish I would have clarified that. Rob Van Dam is a highly intelligent man and my memory hasn’t failed me one damn bit. I remember last year being beaten by Benoit, but I also remember the circumstances of last year. Things have changed since then, Gene; Benoit’s champion and we’re two of the biggest stars SmackDown has to offer. Not to mention Rob Van Dam is way more intense and skilled than I was last year. The truth of the matter is, tonight, Chris Benoit doesn’t have a chance. Benoit is relatively new to this ‘being on top of the world’ thing and I’ll play that to my advantage. I’ll show Mr. Benoit why I’m ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ and come SummerSlam, when I take that WWE Championship in the Elimination Chamber, Benoit will also find out why they call me ‘Mr. Pay-Per-View,” Rob Van Dam says.
Backstage, Stephanie McMahon is in her office, sitting down on the couch, talking on her cellular phone. Moments later, her husband, the ‘Olympic Hero’ Kurt Angle comes in. Kurt Angle sits down on the couch and Stephanie seems a little uncomfortable. Kurt Angle says, “Steph, you know what’s up with John Cena?” Stephanie McMahon replies, “What do you mean, Kurt?” “Well I mean this big update on his condition. I hear it’s something big; major,” says Kurt. Stephanie says, “Well, Kurt you’re going to have to wait until everyone else to find out.” Kurt Angle complains, “Well that’s a problem Stephanie. I’m one of the biggest stars on SmackDown and not to mention, your husband. I think I deserve to be privy to this kind of --” Kurt Angle is cut off by the door opening. It’s none other than John “Bradshaw” Layfield, whom will participate in the main-event triple threat match for the U.S. title with Kurt Angle. JBL says, “Look, Kurt and Stephanie, I wanted to talk to you about the main-event tonight. When Eddie changed me at that house show, I was looking forward to beating the hell out of him myself, not in a triple threat match, with all due respect.” Stephanie stands up and so does Kurt Angle. Stephanie looks at Kurt, because he stood up as well and says, “Well, Mr. Layfield, let me first state that I make the decisions, not Kurt Angle or anyone else for that matter. It’s all me.” Stephanie continues, “I made the triple threat match because of the situation Kurt presented when he interrupted Eddie Guerrero at --” Kurt cuts off Stephanie and jumps, “Yeah, besides, we clearly have the advantage, John.” John “Bradshaw” Layfield replies, “Yes, that’s the point, Kurt. ‘We’ shouldn’t have the advantage. I should have the advantage, and not anyone else! I told the world a week ago that I would do what I wanted to from now on, for myself. And I damn it, I meant what I said!” Kurt tries to calm JBL down and says, “Look, Bradshaw, the advantage rests in our corner, which still means you. That’s all that should matter.” John “Bradshaw” Layfield shakes his head and says, “Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say, Mr. and Mrs. Angle.” JBL still doesn’t seem pleased and he turns around and leaves out of the room. Stephanie McMahon kind of twists his lower lip, in disbelief of Kurt. Kurt replies, “What? What, Stephanie?” Stephanie doesn’t say anything at all. Kurt Angle shrugs and he takes the small dish with the celery and Ranch dip from off the table and leaves Stephanie’s office. It seems the main-event of tonight will stand, whether John “Bradshaw” Layfield likes it or not.
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Backstage, when SmackDown returns, Chavo Guerrero and the man that helped him win his match against Rey Mysterio earlier tonight, are leaving. They reach the low-rider and then Eddie Guerrero rushes up to them, out of nowhere. The unknown man replies, “Hey, its Mr. United States Champion. My little brother Eddie.” The crowd cheers and is surprised by this revelation. Eddie Guerrero says in a very serious tone, “What the hell are you doing here, man? Costing people matches! You don’t work here!” The man replies, “I do now, Eddie.” Chavo Guerrero then says, “Hey, Uncle Eddie, chill out. Think of this, as a family reunion!” “Viva Guerrero!” exclaims the unknown man. Chavo Guerrero and the man proceed to get into their car. Chavo starts the low-rider and Chavo hits the hydraulics and it bounces for a moment. Then Chavo Guerrero and the unknown man speed off. Eddie Guerrero is still startled and he begins walking away. Then Josh Matthews runs up and asks, “Eddie, who was that?” Eddie Guerrero reluctantly replies, “That, ese, was my older brother, Chavo Sr.” Josh Matthews’ is shocked by this and he stares at the direction they left. Eddie Guerrero continues walking away, having surprised everyone with the revelation.
Backstage, Rey Mysterio and Paul London are watching the monitor backstage, and react to the startling development. Rey Mysterio says, “God, I knew he looked familiar. Chavo Guerrero Sr., huh? Well, I don’t give a damn who you are, or you’re related to, no one disrespects Rey Mysterio the way he did. I mean, he cost me my match, ese. I tell you what though, since Chavo Sr. apparently works here now, next week, I want his ass in this ring. Right here on SmackDown!” Paul London says, “I’d like to see that. What happened was real dirty, man. Well, look anyway I gotta get going, Rey. See ya later.” Paul London walks off, heading to the ring for his match. As London departs Rey says, “Oh, and tell Tajiri and I said good luck, holmes!” Rey Mysterio turns to leave, but then he runs into the man who introduced himself earlier as Johnny Smoove, Stephanie McMahon’s assistant. Johnny says, “Hey, ese, I got some startling revelations for you too. Try this one for size, if you interfere in the match between Tajiri and Paul London, you’ll be suspended for a month. And furthermore --” Rey Mysterio cuts him off and says, “What in the hell –- Oh, wait a minute. You’re that guy that was in Benoit’s face. Didn’t you threaten him with suspension too? Who are you really?” “I’m Johnny Smoove, Stephanie McMahon’s assistant. And no, ese, I didn’t ‘threaten’ Chris Benoit. I made a promise. In fact, I’m making that same promise to you. So holmes, if you interfere in the match, you’re outta here for a month. Got it?” Smoove says. Rey Mysterio answers, “Yeah, whatever, man.” Johnny Smoove begins to walk off and then he stops and turns around, “Oh, and by the way, you don’t make the matches around here, Cheeco. If you want Chavo Guerrero Sr. next week, I suggest you stop by General Manager McMahon’s office. She calls the shots around here, not Rey Mysterio. You got that?” Rey Mysterio stares at Johnny and then he begins to say, “Ye --” “No need to open your mouth. I already know,” Smoove says when cutting Rey Mysterio off. It seems Stephanie McMahon is serious about her matches tonight, and she’s dispatched her new assistant Johnny Smoove to see to it that targeted individuals know. So far he’s done an effective job.
The next match on SmackDown is a cruiserweight match between the “Japanese Buzzsaw” Tajiri against Paul London. Both of these men have not been on SmackDown a great deal in recent months. Tajiri has been one anger and unpleasant person since Judgment Day in May. Prior to that event Tajiri had betrayed best friend Eddie Guerrero and was set to face him at Judgment Day for Guerrero’s U.S. title in a Street Fight. Eddie Guerrero defeated Tajiri, and the rest is history. Perhaps Tajiri understands that if he had beaten Guerrero, maybe he would have been in Guerrero’s privileged shoes, as one of those men considered for a slot in the Elimination Chamber match at SummerSlam. Paul London hasn’t been in the spotlight since WrestleMania XX. Prior to that event, London and his best friend Rey Mysterio were tag team partner and apart of the scheduled Ultimate TLC Match at WrestleMania for the U.S. and Tag Team Championships. But on the SmackDown before WrestleMania, Matt Hardy V.1 viciously attacked Paul London and London was excluded from the Ultimate TLC Match, while Matt Hardy took London’s spot and teamed with Mysterio during the unprecedented bout. Tonight, General Manager Stephanie McMahon understands the current circumstances of these two men and because of that, she has given one of them a chance to make an impact. Though, Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero, Jr. are heading the contention for the Cruiserweight Championship, a victory here would mean something. In the end, it’s Paul London who pulls off the win, but by disqualification. Paul London hits a super kick on Tajiri, and he goes up and prepares for a Shooting Star Press it seems. Then suddenly, Sakoda gets on the ring apron, grabs Paul London by the tights and he yanks him down off the turnbuckle. London hits the ground with force and the referee calls for the bell to be rang. Tajiri is disqualified. Akio, who came down with Sakoda lifts Paul London up and rolls him into the ring. Paul London tries to get to his feet, but Tajiri kicks him on the side of the head with the Buzzsaw Kick. Sakoda then lifts London and places him on his shoulder. Akio goes to the top, and he jumps off the turnbuckle, and knocks Paul London off of Sakoda’s shoulders, imitating the Road Warriors and the Dudley Boyz. Tajiri is pleased with this and he smiles maniacally. Then Tajiri takes one of Sakoda and Akio’s hands and he raises them in victory. “I can’t believe this. Tajiri has aligned himself with Akio and Sakoda!” Then suddenly the Cruiserweight Champion Ultimo Dragon runs down the ramp to the ring. Ultimo Dragon slides in, looking for action, but Tajiri and his new henchmen make it out of the ring in time. Then Tajiri’s music hits and he, Akio, and Sakoda make their way back up the ramp pleased and successful in their efforts.
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Backstage, the cameras are in the hallway. Moments later the door opens, and Bill Goldberg comes into the arena. Bill Goldberg doesn’t have a gym bag or anything, he’s dressed casually. The crowd pops at the sight of Goldberg, and although he isn’t scheduled to wrestle here tonight, Michael Cole and Tazz are not surprised by Goldberg’s presence. Todd Grisham stops Goldberg as he makes his way down the hallway, presumably for a quick interview. As Goldberg stops, the fans begin to chant Goldberg’s name. Todd Grisham says, “Goldberg, tonight you aren’t expected to wrestle, so one can assume that you’re here to take Jamie Noble up on his offer.” Goldberg replies, “That’s right, Todd. One can assume anything he wants … but that doesn’t mean its right. I haven’t made my decision yet, but I will before this night is over. All I can say is that if I do decide to pay Noble his price, whatever it is, for the ‘helpful information’, then I promise things are going to get a little interesting around here. You wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve dodged FBI planned hits over this past week, and someone’s going to pay for everything I’m going through, whether I get the information from Noble or not. No excuse me.” The crowd begins cheering and Bill Goldberg continues into the arena. Goldberg has arrived.
Backstage, the Basham Brothers and Shaniqua are in Stephanie McMahon’s office. Stephanie McMahon isn’t there, and the Basham Brothers have grown restless. Then Doug and Danny sit down on Mrs. McMahon’s couch. “Get your asses up!” Danny and Doug Basham jump up and the fans begin laughing. “How y’all just gone sit on the woman’s couch?” Shaniqua continues saying. Moments later, Kurt Angle walks into the room. Kurt Angle says, “Shaniqua, Danny, Doug, what’s up? What can I do ya for?” Danny Basham begins, “Yes, we wanted to talk about --” Shaniqua cuts Danny off and jumps at him. Shaniqua then tells Kurt, “Actually, we’re here to see Stephanie McMahon; you know the General Manager.” Kurt Angle goes, “Well, I’m the next best thing.” “Oh, she has another assistant?” Shaniqua asks. Kurt chuckles and goes, “Look, I think I can help you with your problem, whatever it is. So spit it out.” Doug Basham is chewing gum and he grabs Kurt’s hand and is about to spit his gum in Kurt’s hand before Shaniqua smacks him hard on the head. “Don’t be stupid, Doug –- As a matter of fact, wait outside!” Doug Basham starts out and Shaniqua says, “You too, Danny.” Both Bashams leave the office to wait outside. Shaniqua gets down to business and says, “Look, my boys beat Bubba and D-Von tonight and that should qualify us for a title shot. Now I’ve been gone on Raw for a minute, and since then my boys have been treated badly by your wife, with all due respect. Now all that’s over. So how about it? Next week, we get a title shot.” Kurt Angle thinks and moment and then concludes, “All right, I’ll think about it. I don’t like to make decisions right off the bat, so give me time and you’ll know. But just in case, be prepared to wrestle next week. All right? That sounds good?” “It sounds okay. Just okay,” Shaniqua says. After that, she leaves the room. For some reason she smacks Doug Basham on the head and then directs them both out of the camera view.
The cameras go to the arena and Rob Van Dam’s music hits. The fans immediately begin to boo and moments later, ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ comes out. Rob Van Dam seems to be a fair mood, and if you’re Rob Van Dam, how could you not be? Rob Van Dam’s a former World Heavyweight Champion from Raw, and now he’s on SmackDown. He has a guaranteed spot in the SummerSlam Elimination Chamber match for the WWE title and tonight he faces the champion, Chris Benoit. Rob Van Dam, though, isn’t received well by the fans. Last week, along with Kurt Angle and John “Bradshaw” Layfield, Rob Van Dam made an impact and beat down on Chris Benoit and Eddie Guerrero. This week, ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ will meet the WWE Champion … up close and personal. When Chris Benoit’s music hits, the crowd stands to its feet and cheers louder than it’s cheered tonight. Chris Benoit is an amazingly popular WWE Champion and the fans appreciate Benoit’s fortitude and intensity. Earlier tonight, Stephanie McMahon dispatched her assistant Johnny Smoove to warn Benoit of consequences of interfering in the main-event triple threat match. Chris Benoit made it clear that he wouldn’t be threatened, and Mrs. McMahon could have been pleased to receive the report of what Benoit had to say. Tonight, two men who currently have slots reserved for the SummerSlam Elimination Chamber match will meet. Chris Benoit and Rob Van Dam do battle fiercely and the action is back and forth. In the last 10 minutes of the match, Chris Benoit has Rob Van Dam in the Sharpshooter. The crowd is cheering wildly, and it seems Mr. Van Dam is on the verge of tapping out to the Rabid Wolverine. But that isn’t so. Rob Van Dam lifts his upper body and he begins to crawl. Rob Van Dam struggles to make it to the ropes and then he finally does! Chris Benoit smiles and he tightens the grip and drags Rob Van Dam to the center of the ring. Benoit has brought Van Dam to the center of the ring; still holding in the Sharpshooter submission and surely now Rob Van Dam will tap. Rob Van Dam rives in pain, and there’s nowhere to go. Then Rob Van Dam lifts his upper body, and with a purpose. Rob Van Dam then uses every bit of leg strength he has and he throws Benoit off. Rob Van Dam and Benoit are tangled for a second, and Van Dam takes the imitative, grabs Benoit’s legs, gets up and he places the champion in the Sharpshooter! The crowd begins to cheer for Benoit, and Rob Van Dam takes great pleasure in inflicting so much pain on the WWE champion. That pain is clearly writ all over the face of Chris Benoit as he struggles to get the ropes. The crowd comes together after seconds of completely botching a chant, and then begins to let out a collective “Benoit” chant. The fans chant and chant, and then Chris Benoit begins to move. Benoit itches and itches to the ropes, and then he finally makes it. Chris Benoit gets there, and Rob Van Dam tries to drag Benoit to the center of the ring, giving Benoit a dose of his own medicine. Chris Benoit grabs hold of the ropes and he doesn’t let go. Chris Benoit eventually kicks Rob Van Dam off of him and Van Dam flies half way across the ring. Chris Benoit and Rob Van Dam get up, but it’s Benoit that turns around first. Benoit takes off, and a second later, so does Van Dam after turning around. The two execute clotheslines and collide in the center of the ring! The fans cheer boisterously at the great action put on by the two main-event athletes, but not it’s time to rest and collect their energy. Moments later, after another “Benoit” chant, both Chris Benoit and Rob Van Dam begin to get up. Chris Benoit and Rob Van Dam turn around and Rob Van Dam hits Benoit with a punch. Benoit comes back with a thunderous punch of his own, and then Rob Van Dam comes back with a punch. Chris Benoit then grabs Benoit’s head and he punches him. Chris Benoit then takes his hand and he chops Van Dam across the chest. Chris Benoit then takes it to Rob Van Dam with punches to the face and chops to the chest. Eventually, Benoit backs Van Dam up against the ropes. Benoit sends Van Dam to the ropes. Rob Van Dam comes back, and Benoit bends down, looking to catch Van Dam with an offensive move. Rob Van Dam counters, flipping/rolling over Chris Benoit’s back and landing on his feet. Benoit turns around and Rob Van Dam does for a standing, spinning kick, but Benoit ducks. Chris Benoit then grabs Rob Van Dam and he goes for a German suplex. Rob Van Dam places his leg behind Benoit’s to stop the German suplex process. Then Chris Benoit takes his arm and clubs Van Dam over the back twice. Benoit tightens the grip and he drills Rob Van Dam into the mat with a “beautiful German”, as Tazz describes it. Chris Benoit doesn’t stop there; no. Chris Benoit gets up and he lifts Van Dam up and gives him another “magnificent German suplex”, as Michael Cole describes it. Chris Benoit gets up again with Van Dam and he gives him a third German suplex. Chris Benoit gets up and he does the cutthroat taunt, signaling for the diving head butt finisher. Chris Benoit begins to move to the corner, but then he goes back to Rob Van Dam, lifts him up and he gives him a fourth German suplex! Chris Benoit then does another, this time slow cutthroat taunt, and emphatically says it is over and time for the diving head butt finisher. Chris Benoit goes up and moments later, he dives off the turnbuckle and goes for the head butt. It looks like Benoit might make it, but then Rob Van Dam rolls backwards out of harm’s way. Rob Van Dam gets up and he smiles. He’s obviously hurt from the Germans, but not enough to take a diving head butt. Benoit struggles to get up swiftly, and when he does. Rob Van Dam runs and he goes for a clothesline. Benoit ducks, lifts Van Dam and throws him out of the ring, only Van Dam lands on his feet, on the ring apron. Chris Benoit has his back turned to Van Dam, but Van Dam grabs Benoit’s neck, and forcefully drives the back of it against the third rope. Rob Van Dam then gets into the ring. Chris Benoit holds his neck and wanders off, before turning back around, regaining some of his senses. Benoit turns around, and he meets Rob Van Dam’s spinning heel kick. Rob Van Dam gets up and he runs to the ropes, comes back and hits the Rolling Thunder on Chris Benoit. The fans cheer this move, showing that they don’t particularly care for his attitude, but they enjoy his wrestling. Rob Van Dam gets up and he looks around. It seems it’s time for “Mr. Thursday Night” to hit the Five Star Frog Splash. Rob Van Dam goes to the corner, goes up, and he looks around again. Then Chris Benoit begins getting up. This spoils Van Dam’s Five Star aspirations, so he switches gear, and gets in position for his diving kick to the chest. Then suddenly Benoit takes off, and hits the ropes. Rob Van Dam’s balance is compromised and he falls down in no man’s land, hurting his crotch. Chris Benoit is still tired from the offensive moves of Van Dam, but he musters up the energy and handles business. Chris Benoit goes over to Rob Van Dam, gets up in the corner with him and it seems Benoit will attempt a superplex. Then Rob Van Dam punches Benoit in the gut three times. Rob Van Dam pushes Benoit off the top rope, and Benoit hits the mat with force, but he doesn’t say there. Benoit gets up shortly after and Rob Van Dam jumps off the top and goes for the diving kick to the chest. Chris Benoit moves to the side, and when Van Dam’s feet touch the mat, Benoit quickly grab Van Dam’s arm and he bring him to the ground. Chris Benoit struggles to lock in the Crippler Cross-face, but he finally does! Chris Benoit has the Cross-face submission locked and Van Dam is seemingly miles away from the ropes, and safety. Rob Van Dam yells out in pain, but there’s nowhere to go. Chris Benoit pulls and pulls even more, and finally “Mr. Thursday Night” places his hand out and taps to the Crippler Cross-face! Then the bell rings and Howard Finkel proudly says, “Ladies and gentlemen, winner of this match, Chris Benoit!” Benoit’s music plays and he’s given his WWE title belt. Chris Benoit gets to his feet and he gets on the turnbuckle and lifts up his WWE title belt. Chris Benoit is proud of his victory, and here tonight Chris Benoit defeated Rob Van Dam, in the first time, in a year. Chris Benoit gets out of the ring and he shakes hands with a couple of fans before beginning to make his way up the ramp way. WWE champion Chris Benoit has defeated “Mr. Thursday Night” Rob Van Dam. On that note, SmackDown cuts to commercials.
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Backstage, Stephanie McMahon’s assistant Johnny Smoove is walking through the hallway. Smoove has his head held high. Johnny Smoove walks up to a group of SmackDown superstars, Hardcore Holly, Rico, and Garrison Cade. Johnny Smoove clears his throat and Garrison Cade and Rico move out of the way, but Hardcore Holly does not. Hardcore Holly stands in Smoove’s way and says, “It looks like you might b goin’ someplace. Are you?” “You’re damn right I am. I’m going to Stephanie McMahon, my boss’s office!” Smoove snaps. Hardcore Holly then says, “Well, I tell you what Mr. Hot Shot Assistant, I ain’t movin’ until you show a little manners.” Johnny Smoove looks at Garrison Cade and Rico and says, “Hey! Cade, Rico, tell your buddy to get out of my way. He doesn’t know who he’s dealing with.” Garrison Cade walks away and Rico comes over. Rico says, “I don’t know Johnny Boy. I’m feeling sooooooooooooooooooo much negative tension coming from you. Maybe you need to calm down and say the magic ‘P’ word. Umm?” Johnny Smoove thinks for a second and then he turns around and walks away. Hardcore Holly and Rico start laughing and Rico throws his hand up for a high-five and Holly high-fives Rico.
Then the cameras go to the ring where SmackDown play-by-play announcer Michael Cole is standing in the ring. Cole says, “Ladies and gentlemen, the week of anticipation is at an end. Last week on SmackDown, the Doctor of Thuganomics and 2004 King of the Ring John Cena was attacked backstage by an unknown assailant. It’s my duty tonight to give an update on Cena’s condition. So without any further ado --” Then the bell sounds and the fans begin booing as they look to the titantron and see the video promo starting up. Then the theme song begins in full swing and it’s obvious who is making his way out to the ring … John “Bradshaw” Layfield. Moments later, JBL’s limousine pulls from out the side of the SmackDown titantron and stops on the side of the aisle. Enrique gets out and he goes to the passenger’s door and opens it. Moments later JBL steps out, in his ring entrance attire. JBL has on his cowboy hat, towel around his neck, and sports jacket on. JBL takes off his hat and he throws both arms up with a great big smile on his face. JBL goes to the ring with great anticipation. JBL gets in the ring and he snatches the microphone from Michael Cole. JBL says, “Michael Cole, Michael Cole, buddy. You’re excused.” Michael Cole mouths, “What?” JBL then says, “You heard what I had to say, get your ass out of the room. You’re excused.” Michael Cole then turns around and begins walking but JBL calls to him. Cole turns around and JBL takes the folder away from him. JBL says, “Thank you, Michael Cole. Ladies and gentlemen, right here on SmackDown, I, John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield will announce the update on John Cena’s condition. And it’ll be right after this short commercial break.”
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Backstage, Goldberg is wandering the halls. He has a piece of paper in his hands and he looks down often, as he turns corners and looks up at door signs. Finally, Goldberg reaches a door on his left hand, and it holds some interest. Goldberg looks at the sign that reads “Women’s Restroom”. Goldberg touches the sign lightly and then he rips it off and a key falls to the ground. Goldberg squats down, picks up the key and smiles. He opens the door with the key and wanders around. Goldberg locks the door behind him and he goes into one of the stalls. There’s a pouring sound coming from the stall and it can be assumed that Goldberg is handling business. Moments later the toilet flushes and Goldberg walks out of the stall with another piece of paper. Goldberg washes his hands and he goes to the door and opens it and walks out. Goldberg turns left and heads down the hallway. Then the camera focuses on Billy Kidman and Orlando Jordan, who just witnessed Goldberg just leaving the ladies’ room. Billy Kidman remarks, “Gee, I knew he was a punk. I didn’t know he already gotten the operation to turn him into a real woman.” Orlando Jordan laughs and the cameras fades out.
The cameras go to the ring where John “Bradshaw” Layfield’s music is playing and JBL is standing with a microphone in one hand a folder in the other. JBL’s music cuts and JBL begins to speak. JBL says, “Well, folks the time has finally come for me to give you an update on John Cena. Last week someone took Cena out and no one knows whom it was. But in this folder I have, are the details on Cena’s edition. I tell you what though, I won’t bore you with all the details and such, I’ll just get right down to the meat of it. John Cena is hurt, and unfortunately for you people, he’s hurt badly. It seems Mr. Cena will be missing some weeks’ action here on SmackDown. (boos from the crowd) Now last week John Cena suffered a severe concussion, and as a result, he’s at home licking his wounds, while the rest of us come to work everyday. For that reason, I’ve decided that I’m going to start a petition. This petition will say that since John Cena is hurt and hurt badly, that he should be respectfully stripped of the King of the Ring title, and that of course, means his slot in the SummerSlam Elimination Chamber should go elsewhere (major boos from the crowd). Now I’ve already arranged for this petition to be made; it was only a matter of coming out and announcing it. So without any other hesitation, please bring my petition out.” JBL waits pleasantly, but no one comes out. The crowd begins to chant “Cena” as JBL waits and waits. The crowd continues to chant and JBL grows inpatient. JBL barks, “Look, why don’t you idiot people shut up! I told you he’s hurt badly, he won’t be here. Look, I clearly directed for my petition to be made. Now one of you moronic stagehands had better come out here and deliver it. Now!” JBL begins waiting again and suddenly Chris Benoit’s music hits and the WWE Champion comes out with JBL’s petition! The crowd cheers wildly and Benoit smiles as he stops midway on the ramp, places his WWE title belt around his waist and then holds up JBL’s petition. Benoit takes the papers from the clipboard and he looks directly at John “Bradshaw” Layfield. Then Chris Benoit proceeds to rip them up! JBL is shocked and he gets on the microphone and berates Benoit, “Listen to me you toothless excuse for a champion. What did you do? I ought to –- Ooh, I ought to beat the hell out --” JBL throws down the microphone when he sees Chris Benoit runs down to the ring. JBL is dumbfounded and doesn’t know what to do. Then suddenly, JBL jumps out of the ring when Benoit slides in. JBL begins to smile as he rushes to the end of the ramp. JBL mouths, “You stupid son of a bitch.” Moments later, McMahon assistant Johnny Smoove come out on the stage with 10 security personnel with a microphone. Smoove says, “Security, you are to apprehend Chris Benoit! On orders of Stephanie McMahon, apprehend him and if he even thinks about resisting arrest, I have people by the phones and they are instructed to call the proper authorities. And then Chris Benoit’s toothless as can spend the night in jail!” The security guys surround the ring and Chris Benoit gets a microphone and says, “Hey, Johnny, you can’t do better than this, huh? You send these asswipes out here. I tell you what, boy, I’m the WWE champion, I leave on my own right.” Benoit drops the microphone and gets out of the ring. Benoit warns the security guards not to touch him and he begins making his way up the ramp way. Benoit jumps at JBL and JBL begins to jump, but he stops himself and mocks Benoit. Chris Benoit reach the stage and he stares a mean and long stare at Stephanie McMahon’s assistant Johnny Smoove. Benoit finally leaves and JBL’s music hits and John “Bradshaw” Layfield walks around the ring and sits down with Michael Cole and Tazz at the SmackDown announce position. JBL shakes hands with Tazz and he looks at Michael Cole, who it extends his hand, and then sits down. JBL explains, “Look, if you don’t mind, Tazz, I’m just gonna sit down and kill some time until my main-event match tonight. By the way, in a matter of 20 minutes, I’ll be the U.S. Champion. Eddie might as well bring me my belt now.” “I think you might be a little ahead of yourself there, JBL. But folks don’t anywhere, more SmackDown after this commercial break.”
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Backstage, when SmackDown returns, Goldberg is once again wandering the halls of the arena. While Goldberg walks through the halls, he constantly looks down on the paper, and it can be assumed that the paper is giving him directions. Goldberg walks through the hall doors and he walks into the lobby. Goldberg speaks to a couple of merchandise and concession stand workers and then he walks out of the front doors and in front of the arena. Goldberg walks down the steps and down by the street. Goldberg looks at the paper again and mumbles to himself, “Wait for 10 seconds … 9:37”. Goldberg stands there and waits, looking at his watch. And one second late, a taxi cab pulls up on the curb. The person in the back of the car pays the driver and gets out. As expected, it’s Jamie Noble. Goldberg remarks, “You’re late.” Noble smirks and he says, “Let’s get down to business, shall we?” Goldberg asks, “So what’s the price, Noble?” Noble replies, “I think a considerable fee would be in order for the information I’m about to give you Mr. Goldberg.” “How much?” Goldberg asks. To which Jamie Noble says, “I’ll let you decide. You’re a reasonable man I can tell.” Goldberg pulls out a heft wad of money held together by a golden clip. “I figured this is what you wanted,” says Goldberg as he hands Jamie Noble the money. Jamie Noble places the money in his jacket pocket and gets down to the core of the situation. Jamie Noble begins by saying, “First off, the FBI hasn’t even been trying to ‘hit’ you Goldberg. Sure they’ve been attacking you week after week, but trust me, these guys have serious Mafia roots, and they know how to dispose of someone if they wanted to. It seems, Goldberg, that whoever put out the hit on you, they’re just playing with you know. You know, cat and mouse. But I hear that may change soon. I don’t know when, or where, but it’ll happen soon.” “What?” Goldberg asks. “I don’t know when, but the FBI’ll get the order to put you on the shelf … permanently. They’re only playing softball now.” “Son of a bitch,” Goldberg mutters. Jamie Noble continues, “And this person is paying the FBI huge cash, Bill. I’m talking serious cash. After all, you’ll be Goldberg and whoever put out the hit knows this is a night and day job, so they know they’re getting their monies worth.” Goldberg asks, “Well do you know who this person is Noble?” “Not necessarily, Goldberg. But all I know is that you’re playing with someone big and powerful. And I mean big and powerful, Bill. This is someone who maybe knows you real well and knows their way around the block. But that’s it.” Goldberg asks Noble, “But where can I find this ‘powerful’ person, Jamie?” “All I can tell you is that it’s corporate power. Someone with brains and money. Lots of it.” Goldberg then says, “So, you mean to tell me that it isn’t Rhyno.” “Rhyno hates your guts, and although he’d like to take credit for it, Pffft, this guy doesn’t have the brains or cash to be behind this. But it’s going to surprise the hell out of you, I’m sure of that, Bill.” Goldberg says, “Damn, looks like I’m in sure a helluva struggle, huh?” Jamie Noble says, “That’s the way everything is, Bill, complicated.” Jamie Noble turns around and calls for a taxi cab. “Nice doing business with you, Bill.” A cab stops and Jamie Noble opens the door and begins to get in. “Thanks”, Goldberg says before Noble gets into the car. “Yeah”, Jamie Noble replies. Noble closes the door and the taxi cab takes off from in front of the arena.
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When SmackDown returns, cameras go to Michael Cole, Tazz, and John “Bradshaw” Layfield at ringside.
Michael Cole: Folks, strange things keep happening on SmackDown. I mean, if JBL’s trying to strip John Cena of duly won King of the Ring title wasn’t enough, surely what we saw before the break was.
JBL: I hate you, Michael Cole, and I’ll ignore what you said first. I’m an honorable. And as far as what happened between Jamie Noble and Bill Goldberg, that ‘Godfather’ theme song is playing in my head right now. I tell you what, there’s no greater wrestling show in the world than SmackDown. This show is phenomenal. God bless everyone for their efforts to make this show great.
Tazz: Well, Mr. Layfield ain’t exaggerating when he says that, folks. In fact, SmackDown was the #1 rated show on all of television last week.
Michael Cole: But getting back to SmackDown here, strange and startling things have also happened in the cruiserweight division here tonight. I mean, Chavo Guerrero defeated Rey Mysterio thanks to his father and newest SmackDown superstar, Chavo Guerrero Sr.!
Tazz: I thought he looked familiar, Cole. I thought he did. I tell you one thing, with three Guerreros on SmackDown, things are going to get pretty interesting around here.
JBL: If by ‘interesting’, you mean this show will be berating by thievery, lies, and cheating, then you’re right, Tazz. You hit it right on the freaking head. But what about Tajiri seizing an opportunity and aligning himself with the impressive young Japanese athletes, Akio and Sakoda? Boy that Tajiri reminds me of myself at some point, and I’m sure Tajiri has a Cruiserweight, and hell, maybe even a United States title run in his future. But of course, that won’t happen while I’m United States Champion, after I win the belt here tonight.
Michael Cole: That indeed did happen, and the WWE champion Chris Benoit defeated ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ Rob Van Dam!
Tazz: Benoit made the poor man tap out to the Crippler Cross-face, and I’m sure ‘Mr. Thursday Night’ will have a little something to say next week on SmackDown.
Michael Cole: And not to mention the update that was given on John Cena’s medical condition here tonight --
JBL: Given by me, John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield. I announced tonight that Cena was hurt badly and it would be wise for the McMahon Administration to strip Cena of the King of the Ring title.
Michael Cole: Mr. Layfield even had a petition made out, which was ripped up on the ramp way by Chris Benoit and led to JBL running from the WWE champion.
JBL: As successful as I am, Cole, you can bet that I’ll have some chump whip me up another one. That toothless disgrace can’t stop success and ambition. JBL will be here next week on SmackDown with a brand new, and improved petition. Now excuse me, I’m going to go to the ring and prepare for my U.S. title win.
JBL gets up and he begins to walk away and Tazz continues.
Michael Cole: Well, folks, who will leave tonight’s show as United States Champion? Will it be the champion, Eddie Guerrero, Kurt Angle, or --
JBL walks back and says.
JBL: I couldn’t help but here your question, and I’ll save you the trouble and answer it. John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield is leaving tonight as United States champion; I guarantee it!
JBL leaves once again and Michael Cole and Tazz continue.
Tazz: Well, thank you, JBL. (does trademark cackle)
Michael Cole: Well, coming up next folks, the WWE U.S. championship will be on the line when Eddie Guerrero defends the gold in a triple threat match against allies John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield and Kurt Angle.
Tazz: Don’t be a smart ass, Cole.
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When SmackDown returns the main-event is next. On the July 8th edition of SmackDown, Eddie Guerrero will defend the United States Championship against John “Bradshaw” Layfield and Kurt Angle, in a triple threat match. Critics, like play-by-play announcer Michael Cole would say that the three-day match is a glorified handicap match, since it was JBL and Angle, along with Rob Van Dam who assaulted Chris Benoit and Eddie Guerrero on last week’s SmackDown. This match came to be because of the champion Eddie Guerrero. Guerrero challenged JBL to a match on tonight’s SmackDown for the U.S. title at a house show in Seattle, WA. It was not JBL that came out and reacted to Eddie’s challenged but the ‘Olympic Hero’ Kurt Angle. That lead to heated and fighting words being exchanged between and as a result SmackDown General Manager Stephanie McMahon gave Guerrero what he wanted and more: a three-way dance. Earlier tonight, the world witnessed the reaction of John “Bradshaw” Layfield to the main-event. JBL didn’t take well to the idea and he confronted Mrs. McMahon and Kurt Angle about it. But somehow assured JBL that the advantage was still in his column. Since then, JBL has been proclaiming all night that when the smokes clear, he’ll be the United States champion. When SmackDown returns from the final commercial break, JBL is already in the ring after having waited with Michael Cole and Tazz to “kill some time.” JBL is incredibly confident and that shows all over his face with what Tazz describes as, “that successful, toothy grin.” The match gets underway after Kurt Angle and current champion Eddie Guerrero make their way down, and it seems as though Michael Cole’s prediction was right: it’s a glorified handicap match. Kurt Angle and JBL double team Eddie Guerrero, both wanting to assure that if anything, Guerrero doesn’t leave with the belt, adding another niche to his contention for the SummerSlam Elimination Chamber match. In the last ten minutes of the match, Eddie Guerrero is beginning to come back. After clobbering JBL and Angle with a double clothesline, Eddie Guerrero shakes his shoulders and begins to get down. JBL and Kurt get up again and Eddie runs and clotheslines JBL. He then turns and goes to Kurt Angle, punches him three times, backs up and he clotheslines him over the top, and out of the ring. Eddie Guerrero turns around and JBL is getting up. Guerrero goes to JBL and he punches JBL three times. Guerrero sends JBL to the ropes. JBL comes back and Eddie lifts him up with a backdrop or overhead toss. JBL gets back up, holding his back, and Eddie Guerrero kicks him in the mid-section and goes for a suplex, maybe trying to kick off those Three Amigos triple suplexes. Eddie lifts JBL and JBL counters, and jumps behind Guerrero. JBL clubs Guerrero in the head, and grabs him and gives Guerrero a back suplex. JBL covers Eddie Guerrero, but Eddie gets the shoulder up before the count of three. JBL gets up and he stretches his arms, smiles, executing the trademark JBL pose. The crowd boos JBL and JBL turns around. Guerrero tries to get to his feet and JBL begins to stomp the living hell out of Guerrero. JBL grabs hold of Guerrero and lifts him up. JBL takes Guerreros’ head and punches him back down to the mat. JBL then runs to the ropes and he comes back and goes for an elbow drop. Guerrero moves out of the way, and JBL misses the elbow drop. Guerrero gets up, obviously tired, and he chops JBL on the chest four times, as he gets up. Eddie Guerrero grabs JBL and he lays three punches on him, shakes his shoulders and lays a fourth hard punch to JBL. JBL hits the mat, and Eddie Guerrero lifts JBL up and kicks him in the mid-section. Guerrero lifts him up and he hits a suplex. Eddie Guerrero lifts JBL up again and he executes another suplex. Eddie Guerrero gets up again, looking to finalize Three Amigos, but then JBL elbows Eddie Guerrero in the back of the head. Guerrero looks dazed afterwards, and JBL lays five moves elbows to the back of Eddie Guerrero’s head and JBL breaks free. Eddie Guerrero staggers a bit, and JBL collects himself. John “Bradshaw” Layfield goes to the ropes and he comes back, as Eddie turns around. JBL smiles and he almost takes the champion’s head off with his finisher, the Clothesline from Hell! JBL seems to have it all wrapped up now, and JBL covers Eddie Guerrero. The referee gets down and counts, 1-2 -- And then suddenly, Kurt Angle pulls JBL’s leg and yanks him out of the ring! Kurt Angle slides into the ring, showing his true, U.S. title hungry colors and covers Guerrero for himself. Then JBL slides into the ring and he kicks Kurt Angle on the back of Kurt’s neck. JBL lifts Kurt Angle and he runs to the ropes, comes back and he goes for a big boot. Kurt Angle grabs JBL’s leg and takes him down, and locks in the Angle Lock! The crowd stands to its feet, not in support of Angle, but because of the suspense. Here we are at the end, and Angle has JBL in the Angle Lock; why it must be the end! Kurt Angle twists JBL’s ankle and JBL cries out in awful agony. Meanwhile, Guerrero, acting on a prayer, because at any second JBL could tap, crawls to the corner. Guerrero goes up, and at that time, Kurt Angle lies down on the mat with JBL’s leg, in the more dramatic, suspenseful stage of Angle’s submission. Then Eddie Guerrero jumps off the top rope and nails the Frog Splash on Kurt Angle, as he’s locking the submission! Kurt immediately lets go, and too bad for Angle. Nearly a second after Angle clearly breaks the hold, JBL taps out. Eddie Guerrero is hurt from the Frog Splash he delivered to Angle, and Kurt is out of it. JBL comes to his senses and he slowly gets to his feet. So does Eddie. Eddie is groggier of the two though. Eddie turns around and JBL suddenly kicks him in the mid-section, lifts him up and plants Eddie Guerrero with a powerbomb! JBL falls onto Eddie Guerrero for the cover, and the referee gets down. Kurt Angle gets up, but he’s too late, and in three seconds, we have a new United States champion! Then JBL’s music hits, and the crowd begin booing boisterously. JBL gets to his feet and the referee presents John “Bradshaw” Layfield with the U.S. title belt. JBL smiles and he unbuckles the belt and holds it up vertically, in its full length. Kurt Angle turns over, still in pain and extremely disappointed. JBL gets out of the ring and he rests the title belt on his shoulder. JBL makes the slow walk up the ramp and his limousine pulls out from the side of the titantron. JBL gets in the car, and moments later, he comes up from the sun roof of the limousine and smiles, holding his title high in the air! The fans boo JBL and a quite a few throw trash in JBL’s direction, but there’s nothing they can do about it. John “Bradshaw” Layfield guaranteed victory and he delivered with an impact. “Ladies and gentlemen, John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield has made me a believer. I wasn’t a full believer, but I was gettin’ there. I’m there now. I’m a believer in JBL. Like it or not, Michael Cole and everyone else, John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield is our new United States champion! This is a great day for America! I’m a believer!” color analyst Tazz exclaims as SmackDown goes off the air!
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© 2004 – Mr.McMahon’s WWE Season II