MONDAY NIGHT RAW Episode #564
Monday March 15, 2004
Continental Airlines Arena
East Rutherford, New Jersey
Following the WWE signature opening, we cut directly to Vince McMahon who is sitting in his fancy black leather chair in his office. Vince said the theme of WrestleMania 20 was where it all begins again. It's not just a theme, it's a promise and things need to be changed around here. It's time to shake things up. The fans deserve new superstars, new matches and new rivalries. It's time for a new WWE. He announces that this Saturday Night there will be a special 1-hour WWE Draft Special. It will air on Spike at 8 PM this Saturday Night. Everyone on both rosters will be eligible even champions, there's no exceptions, because it's time for a new Raw and a new Smackdown and a new WWE. Vince explains the rules; Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman will each take turns drafting their own brands one by one. At the beginning of the draft a coin toss will determine which brand gets the first pick. Then it will go in a snake draft order ex: Smackdown, Raw, Raw, Smackdown, Smackdown, Raw, Raw etc. Now both GMS will be able to make trades as long as they run the trades by Vince first and he approves them. Vince finishes by welcoming everyone to the MONDAY NIGHT RAW!!! A video montage highlighting the incredible events highlighting Wrestlemania XX ending with Chris Benoit’s making Triple H tap out to win the World Heavyweight Championship. The package fades as Benoit and Eddie Guerrero embrace a hug as both men reign supreme in the WWE. We go inside the Continental Airlines Arena as pyro blasts on the stage area as the raucous crowd cheers. Still on a high from the previous night’s actions and Vince McMahon’s game changing announcement, Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler kick RAW off by hyping up the “incredible” action from WrestleMania XX and discuss how everything will change this Saturday with the WWE Draft.
The camera cuts inside the ring where Lilian Garcia stands with a microphone in hand, her voice filled with excitement. Lilian Garcia: "Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome the NEW World Heavyweight Champion... Chris Benoit!" As the unmistakable chords of
"First off," he begins, his voice strong and confident, "I want to thank each and every one of you. You've been with me through thick and thin, and this moment, standing here as your World Heavyweight Champion, is as much yours as it is mine." The crowd erupts in cheers, acknowledging their unwavering support for Benoit's journey. "The road to this championship wasn't easy," Benoit continues, "but it was worth every sacrifice, every drop of sweat and blood. It's about damn time." The crowd erupts in cheers, reliving the unforgettable moment. "I know Triple H isn't here tonight," Benoit acknowledges, "recovering from the beating I gave him. But if fate puts us on the same brand after the draft, I'll have no problem making him TAP OUT AGAIN!" The crowd's cheers intensify as Benoit smirks, his confidence unwavering. "Now, about the draft," Benoit shifts his focus, "whether I stay on Raw or get drafted to SmackDown, it doesn't matter. Wherever I go after Saturday, that will be MY SHOW!" The crowd cheers loudly, embracing Benoit's bold declaration. "Defending this championship won't be easy," Benoit admits, "but I'm up for the challenge. I'll defend this title anytime, anywhere, against anyone. But mark my words, whoever steps up next, they will TAP OUT." The iconic sound of "Sexy Boy" fills the arena, signaling the arrival of Shawn Michaels. Despite showing signs of fatigue from last night's grueling Triple Threat match, HBK makes his way down the ramp, clapping in appreciation for the World Champion. Sporting a black leather jacket over a white tank top, paired with jeans, and a bandage on his forehead from the previous night's battle, Michaels exudes resilience as he enters the ring. The crowd erupts into a dueling chant of "Benoit" and "HBK," showcasing the excitement and anticipation for this unexpected encounter. As the music fades, HBK and Benoit stand face to face in the center of the ring, both men soaking in the electric atmosphere. The tension is palpable as Michaels takes the microphone from Benoit, causing a collective gasp from the crowd. "Congratulations, Chris," Michaels begins, his voice sincere. "You finally won the big one. Welcome to the club, kid." Benoit's eyes lock onto Michaels, intrigued by what the Heartbreak Kid has to say next. Michaels continues, "I wasn't the one pinned last night. I didn't tap out. Triple H did. So, as far as I'm concerned, I'm still owed a championship match." A grin spreads across Benoit's face, intrigued by Michaels' bold statement. Michaels, seizing the moment, proposes a challenge. "I want to make a lasting impact on possibly my final Raw. Since you've declared yourself a fighting champion, how about you and me, for the World Heavyweight Championship... TONIGHT? HBK extends his hand towards Benoit, offering a handshake as a sign of respect and a challenge laid down. Benoit firmly grasps HBK's outstretched hand and nods his head in agreement. Pulling the microphone back to his lips, a determined look on his face, he proclaims, "I ACCEPT." The familiar chords of "Whatever" by Our Lady Peace fill the arena once more, amplifying the intensity of the moment. Benoit and Michaels lock eyes, their stare-down sending chills down the spines of everyone in attendance. As the two icons continue to face off, JR and The King can't contain their excitement on commentary. "What a huge World Title Match we have on our hands!" JR exclaims, while The King chimes in, "I hope this gets approved by Eric Bischoff!" The energy in the arena is electric, with fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the epic showdown between Chris Benoit and Shawn Michaels for the World Heavyweight Championship.
The crowd roars in agreement, echoing Benoit's sentiment. "At the Royal Rumble, I silenced the doubters," he declares, a smile forming on his face. "Entering at number one, I outlasted twenty-nine other superstars. And last night at WrestleMania, on the grandest stage of them all, I made Triple H TAP OUT!"
"Ladies and Gentlemen," Bischoff begins, "As you saw earlier, we had an electrifying confrontation between Chris Benoit and Shawn Michaels. After that intense exchange, I've decided to make it official. Tonight, our main event will feature Chris Benoit defending his World Heavyweight Championship against Shawn Michaels!" The arena buzzes with excitement, the prospect of such a marquee match-up sending waves of anticipation throughout the crowd. Switching gears, Bischoff shifts his focus to the upcoming draft. "Now, I know the draft is causing quite a stir, and let me tell you, I am thrilled. This Saturday, I promise to draft the best roster possible for Raw. And mark my words, once the dust settles, we're going to wipe the floor with SmackDown!" The camera cuts to ringside as the unmistakable opening riff of The lights dim, and a haunting guitar riff begins to play. It's the unmistakable opening of
WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
RVD & BOOKER T vs. EVOLUTION (Batista & Ric Flair)
The bell rings, signaling the start of this highly anticipated tag team match. Ric Flair and Booker T step into the ring as the legal men for their respective teams. They circle each other, sizing up their opponent, before locking up in a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Flair, using his experience, quickly transitions into a wristlock, applying pressure on Booker T's arm. Booker T counters with a swift kick to Flair's midsection, breaking free from the hold. Seizing the momentum, Booker T lands a series of chops and punches, backing Flair into the corner. With the crowd chanting along, Booker T delivers a thunderous "Spinaroonie" to the delight of the audience. Flair, dazed but crafty, manages to tag in Batista just as Booker T attempts a kick. Batista enters the ring with intensity, immediately targeting Booker T's injured midsection with a series of knee strikes and body shots. He lifts Booker T for a spinebuster, but Booker T counters with a DDT, buying himself some much-needed breathing room. Booker T crawls toward his corner and tags in RVD, who springs into action with a flurry of kicks and high-flying maneuvers. RVD dazzles the crowd with his unique offense, connecting with a springboard thrust kick that sends Batista sprawling. RVD climbs the top rope, launching himself with a Five-Star Frog Splash, but Batista rolls out of the way just in time. Both men are down, struggling to make it to their feet. As they stagger to their corners, Flair and Booker T tag back in. Booker T, rejuvenated, takes control with a series of powerful spinebusters, each one echoing through the arena. He sets Flair up for the Scissors Kick, but Flair dodges at the last second, causing Booker T to miss and land awkwardly. Seizing the opportunity, Flair locks Booker T in the Figure-Four Leglock, wrenching away at Booker T's injured leg. The pain is evident on Booker T's face as he desperately reaches for the ropes. Just when it looks like Flair might secure the victory, Booker T manages to reverse the hold, turning the pressure onto Flair. Both men struggle to their feet, exchanging blows in the center of the ring. Flair manages to poke Booker T in the eye, temporarily blinding him. With Booker T disoriented, Flair tags in Batista, who enters the ring with a predatory look in his eyes. He lifts Booker T onto his shoulders, hitting the Batista Bomb with authority. He hooks the leg, as Flair takes out the knee of RVD to prevent him from saving the pinfall and the referee counts – 1, 2, 3!
WINNERS AND
NEW WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS: BATISTA & RIC FLAIR
via pinfall in 10:11
As the referee hands Batista and Flair the Raw Tag Team Championships, the arena is filled with a chorus of boos. The crowd is clearly unhappy with the outcome, voicing their displeasure at Evolution's underhanded tactics that led to their victory. Ignoring the negative reaction, Batista and Flair celebrate in the ring, holding their newly won titles high above their heads. Flair struts around the ring, wooing and taunting the crowd, while Batista stands tall, soaking in the moment of their championship win. As Batista and Flair continue their celebration in the ring, the camera cuts backstage to Randy Orton, who is watching the match unfold on a monitor. A smirk crosses Orton's face as he sees his Evolution teammates secure the victory. Todd Grisham approaches Orton, microphone in hand, eager to get a reaction from The Legend Killer. "Randy, how do you feel about Evolution's win tonight and your victory over the Rock 'n' Sock Connection at WrestleMania XX?" Grisham asks. Orton raises a hand to stop Grisham mid-sentence, a look of confidence and determination in his eyes. "Todd, let's get one thing straight," Orton begins, "I didn't just defeat the Rock 'n' Sock Connection at WrestleMania. I ended the career of Mick Foley. That's a statement that will echo throughout the annals of WWE history." The camera zooms in on Orton, his expression serious as he continues, "And tonight, I have something even bigger to share with the world. Something that will further cement my legacy as the future of this business." Orton proceeds to knock the microphone out of Todd Grisham's hand. “Now get out of my face”.
The arena dims to a shadowy hue, setting a somber tone. The haunting notes of "All the Things She Said" by t.A.T.u. echo throughout the space, signaling the arrival of the Women's Champion, Victoria. The crowd's anticipation builds as images from last night's WrestleMania XX are displayed on the Titantron. Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler provide commentary, their voices filled with excitement and nostalgia. "King, let's not forget what happened last night at WrestleMania XX," JR begins, his voice echoing throughout the arena. "Victoria faced off against Molly Holly in a Hair vs. Title Match, and what transpired was nothing short of shocking." The Titantron showcases still images from the monumental match, capturing the pivotal moments leading up to Victoria's victory. The crowd's reactions are palpable, their emotions ranging from disbelief to awe as they relive the intense showdown between Victoria and Molly Holly. Jerry Lawler chimes in, "That's right, JR. Victoria not only retained her Women's Championship but also left a lasting impression by shaving Molly Holly's head bald! It was a WrestleMania moment that will be talked about for years to come." Amidst the commentary and images, the Women's Champion emerges from the backstage area. Victoria, with a steely determination in her eyes, dons her signature dark attire and sleek black leather jacket. The Women's Championship belt shines brightly around her waist, reflecting her undeniable confidence and dominance in the division. With the memory of last night's historic victory fresh in everyone's minds, Victoria confidently strides down the ramp, her focus unwavering, as she prepares to defend her title once again. As Victoria reaches the ring, she climbs the steel steps and enters through the ropes. Standing in the center of the ring, she raises her championship high above her head, signaling her readiness to defend her title. The crowd erupts with cheers and a mix of applause, showing their support for the champion. The music shifts to a more aggressive tone as the challenger, Jazz, makes her entrance. The powerful beat of "Ain't No Sunshine" by DMX resonates throughout the arena. Jazz appears from the curtain, her intense gaze fixed on the ring and her opponent. Dressed in her black and gold wrestling gear, she exudes confidence and determination. Jazz walks briskly down the ramp, not wasting any time. She climbs the ring steps and enters the ring, immediately locking eyes with Victoria. The two competitors stand toe-to-toe, the tension palpable, as they await the opening bell.
WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
VICTORIA (c) vs. JAZZ
The referee signals for the bell, and the match is underway. Victoria and Jazz circle each other in the ring, both women looking for an opening. They lock up in a collar-and-elbow tie-up, each trying to gain the early advantage. After a brief struggle, Jazz uses her superior strength to push Victoria into the ropes, but Victoria counters with a quick arm drag, taking Jazz down to the mat. Jazz quickly kips up, showcasing her agility, and the two lock up again. This time, Jazz manages to execute a snap suplex, planting Victoria in the center of the ring. She goes for a quick cover, but Victoria kicks out at two. Not deterred, Jazz maintains control, targeting Victoria's arm with a series of punishing arm bars and shoulder locks. Victoria fights back, managing to create some separation with a jawbreaker, followed by a spinning heel kick that sends Jazz reeling. With Jazz stunned, Victoria seizes the opportunity to climb the ropes, looking for a flying crossbody. But Jazz rolls out of the way at the last second, causing Victoria to crash and burn. Jazz capitalizes with a vicious DDT, planting Victoria face-first into the mat. Jazz goes for another cover, but Victoria manages to get her foot on the rope, breaking the count. Frustrated, Jazz begins to unleash a relentless assault, delivering a series of power moves including a scoop slam and a gutwrench suplex. Just when it looks like Jazz is about to secure the victory, Victoria counters a running powerbomb attempt into a headscissors takedown, sending Jazz into the turnbuckle. With Jazz stunned, Victoria hits her signature finishing move, the Widow's Peak, and goes for the cover.
1...2...3!
WINNER AND
STILL WOMEN’S CHAMPION: VICTORIA
via pinfall in 05:34
As the referee hands Victoria the Women's Championship, the arena erupts with cheers, celebrating her hard-fought victory and successful title defense. With her hand raised in triumph, Victoria basks in the adulation of the crowd, holding her championship high above her head as a symbol of her dominance. However, the celebration is short-lived. Out of nowhere, Molly Holly emerges from the crowd, disguised with a wig covering her freshly-shaved head. Without any warning, Molly viciously clubs Victoria from behind, sending her crashing to the mat. The crowd gasps in shock as Molly continues her assault, raining down punches on Victoria while screaming, "YOU DID THIS TO ME!" The reference to Victoria shaving Molly Holly's head the previous night at WrestleMania XX is clear, and Molly is out for revenge. Ignoring the boos and jeers from the crowd, Molly grabs Victoria by the hair, dragging around the mat. With a sinister smile breaking across her face, Molly smashes the Women's Championship into Victoria's face, further punishing the champion. Standing tall over the fallen Women's Champion, Molly's smile fades, replaced by a look of disgust and contempt. She coldly places the Women's Championship back around Victoria's waist, as if marking her territory and sending a chilling message. The atmosphere inside the arena grows tense as the lights dim, signaling the arrival of a force to be reckoned with. The haunting chants of "Who's Next?" echo throughout the space, sending chills down the spines of everyone in attendance. A burst of pyrotechnics illuminates the stage, and the powerful theme of "Invasion" blares over the speakers. Emerging from the backstage area with an intense glare in his eyes, Goldberg makes his way to the ring. His iconic black and white trunks shimmer under the arena lights, and his imposing physique draws gasps from the crowd. The energy in the room is palpable as fans rise to their feet, eagerly anticipating the destruction that Goldberg is known to deliver. Goldberg marches down the ramp with purpose, each step echoing his determination and focus. As he reaches the ring, he ascends the steel steps, pausing for a moment to survey the crowd. With a thunderous roar, he enters the ring, his eyes locked on his opponent for the night, Rico. Inside the ring, Rico awaits Goldberg, trying to maintain his composure despite the overwhelming presence of his formidable opponent. The tension is electric, with the crowd buzzing in anticipation of what promises to be a dominant display from Goldberg.
SINGLES MATCH
GOLDBERG vs. RICO
The referee signals for the bell, and without wasting a single second, Goldberg explodes out of the corner, charging toward Rico with lightning speed. With a thunderous impact, Goldberg delivers a devastating spear, driving Rico into the mat with incredible force. The crowd erupts, knowing what's coming next. With Rico writhing in pain on the canvas, Goldberg rises to his feet, displaying his signature snarl. He grabs Rico by the hair, effortlessly lifting him off the mat and hoisting him into position. With the arena holding its collective breath, Goldberg plants Rico with the Jackhammer, driving him down to the canvas with unmatched power. The referee counts the pinfall.
1...2...3!
WINNER:
GOLDBERG
via pinfall in 0:18
In a blink-and-you'll-miss-it match, Goldberg emerges victorious in just 18 seconds, making a powerful statement with his dominant performance. As the final bell rings, signaling Goldberg's lightning-fast victory over Rico, the intensity in the arena remains palpable. The crowd is still buzzing from the explosive match when Todd Grisham enters the ring, microphone in hand, ready to interview the victorious Goldberg. "Goldberg, after your victory over Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania last night, the question on everyone's mind is, who's next for Goldberg?" Grisham asks, trying to maintain his composure in the presence of the dominant superstar. Goldberg's eyes narrow, locking onto Grisham with an intimidating glare. The tension in the air grows thick as Goldberg turns his attention to the camera, his expression fierce and unyielding. "Stone Cold Steve Austin... YOU'RE NEXT!!!" Goldberg declares, his voice booming throughout the arena. With that explosive statement, Goldberg shoves the microphone away, making his intentions crystal clear. He exits the ring, climbing through the ropes with purpose, leaving Grisham standing there in awe of the message delivered. Back at the commentary table, JR and The King are momentarily stunned by Goldberg's declaration. JR, however, recovers quickly, referencing the unexpected confrontation between Goldberg and Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania. "I'm not surprised, King. After what we saw at WrestleMania, it looks like Goldberg has his sights set on Stone Cold." Cameras cut backstage as Randy Orton is seen preparing for his upcoming appearance, his Intercontinental Championship prominently displayed on a nearby table. Just then, the celebratory sounds of Batista and Flair echo through the hallway as they enter the scene, their newly-won World Tag Team Championships draped over their shoulders. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as the trio of Evolution stand together, a united front showcasing their championship gold. Orton, ever the confident member of the group, picks up his Intercontinental Championship, holding it high as he addresses Batista and Flair. "Look at this," Orton boasts, "Evolution almost holds all the gold. And once Triple H gets healthy, that dominance will be complete." Batista and Flair nod in agreement, sharing in Orton's confidence and vision for Evolution's future. But their curiosity is piqued as they turn their attention to Orton's upcoming "bombshell" announcement. "So, Randy, what's this big bombshell you've been teasing?" Flair asks, his curiosity evident. Orton smirks, enjoying the anticipation he's building. "You'll see," he replies cryptically, "but trust me, it's something that will only elevate the legacy of myself as well as Evolution, proving why Evolution is the most dominant faction in WWE history." With that intriguing promise hanging in the air, the camera zooms in on Orton's confident expression, setting the stage for what promises to be a monumental announcement. As the tension builds, the screen fades to black, signaling a commercial break. The camera cuts back from the commercial break to the electrifying atmosphere of the Continental Airlines Arena. The opening chords of "Line in the Sand" by Motörhead reverberate throughout the arena, signaling the arrival of Randy Orton. The crowd's reaction is a mix of boos and cheers as Orton confidently makes his way down the ramp, the Intercontinental Championship draped over his shoulder. Dressed in a sharp light blue button-down shirt and black dress pants, Orton exudes confidence and poise with every step. His Intercontinental Championship gleams under the arena lights, symbolizing his status as one of WWE's top talents. As Orton steps through the ropes, he holds his championship high, showcasing it to the crowd and adding fuel to their jeers. JR and The King speculate about the nature of Orton's "impactful announcement" for tonight, as Orton's victorious performance with Batista and Ric Flair against the Rock 'n' Sock Connection at WrestleMania is recapped. Climbing the turnbuckle, Orton strikes his iconic "Legend Killer" pose, amplifying the crowd's disdain. He then retrieves a microphone, signaling for silence as he prepares to address the audience. "You see this?" Orton says, holding up his Intercontinental Championship for all to see. "This championship right here is a symbol of excellence, of greatness. It's a title that legends have held, and I've proven time and time again that I am the best to ever hold it." Orton smirks, pausing for a moment to let his words sink in before continuing. "Last night at WrestleMania, I defeated Mick Foley. I ended a legend, I pinned his shoulders to this mat and I proved that the so-called 'hardcore legend' was no match for the Legend Killer. And tonight, I stand before you with a new target in sight." The crowd erupts into cheers and chants, sensing what's coming next. Orton takes a deep breath, relishing the moment before delivering his next bombshell. "I WANT THE ROCK!" Orton declares with venom in his voice, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The chants for The Rock fill the arena, echoing Orton's challenge and adding to the electric atmosphere. "Rock, you're one of the greatest of all time," Orton admits, "But every legend has their end, every icon falls. And I want to be the one to end your story. I want the honor, the privilege, of adding your name to my list of conquered legends." Orton's eyes narrow, his gaze piercing through the camera as if directly challenging The Rock himself. "So, Rock, here's my challenge to you: Come to Raw next week, or if fate puts me on SmackDown after the draft, then SmackDown it is. Meet me face-to-face in this ring, man-to-man, legend-to-legend. Give me your answer, give these people what they want, and let's make history." The crowd's excitement reaches a fever pitch, their cheers and chants for The Rock filling the arena with anticipation. Orton stands tall, his challenge laid out, waiting for The Rock's response and ready to make his mark on WWE history once again. "And Rock," Orton adds with a sly grin, "Next week we will see if you're the People's Champion or the People's Bitch." With his bold challenge laid out for The Rock, Randy Orton drops the microphone, his smirk never leaving his face. He exits the ring gracefully, championship in hand, as his theme music plays in the background. The camera captures Orton's confident stride up the ramp, pausing briefly to strike his "Legend Killer" pose at the top before disappearing backstage. Back at the commentary table, JR and The King are quick to react to Orton's audacious challenge. "Good grief, King! Randy Orton has just thrown down the gauntlet to The Rock!" JR exclaims, clearly stunned by the audacity of Orton's challenge. "You've got to hand it to Orton, JR. He's not afraid to make waves, and challenging The Rock? That's as big as it gets!" The King chimes in, clearly intrigued by the potential showdown. The atmosphere inside the arena shifts, growing more intense as the opening chords of "Live for the Moment" by Monster Magnet fill the air. The crowd's energy spikes, signaling the arrival of Matt Hardy. With a burst of energy, Hardy emerges from the backstage area, his eyes focused and determined. He acknowledges the fans, raising his arms in the air to hype up the crowd. He makes his way down the ramp, slapping hands with eager fans along the way, soaking in their support. As Hardy approaches the ring, he climbs the ring steps and stands on the apron for a moment, pausing to take in the scene. He then leaps over the top rope, landing inside the ring with a determined look on his face. He paces back and forth, warming up and mentally preparing for the match ahead, knowing full well the challenge he faces against the angered Chris Jericho. The arena darkens, and a hush falls over the crowd, anticipation building as the opening chords of "Break The Walls Down" blast through the speakers. The excitement is palpable as Chris Jericho bursts onto the stage, his face a mask of anger and determination. He strides down the ramp, eyes locked forward, focused solely on the upcoming match. As Jericho reaches the ring, the tension is broken by the sudden appearance of Christian and Trish Stratus on the stage. Christian smirks, holding Trish close. Trish then steps forward, waving at Jericho with a teasing smile. "Good luck tonight, Chris. This one's for you," Trish grabs Christian and they share a passionate kiss. Jericho's anger boils over, his face turning red as he shouts angrily at Christian and Trish, clearly distracted and thrown off his game. Before he can react further, Matt Hardy seizes the opportunity, launching himself from behind and taking Jericho down with a vicious attack to kick off the match. The bell rings, and the referee signals for the match to officially begin.
SINGLES MATCH
CHRIS JERICHO vs. MATT HARDY
Both competitors lock eyes, fully aware of the stakes of this high-profile matchup. Jericho and Hardy circle each other cautiously before engaging in a collar-and-elbow tie-up. The two jockey for position, with Jericho gaining the early advantage by transitioning into a wrist lock. Hardy counters with a quick arm drag, sending Jericho to the mat. He follows up with a series of stomps and elbow drops, targeting Jericho's arm. Hardy maintains control, grounding Jericho with a side headlock, trying to wear down his opponent. Jericho manages to fight back, creating separation with a jawbreaker. Seizing the moment, Jericho delivers a snap suplex, planting Hardy firmly on the mat. He follows up with a running bulldog, gaining momentum. As the match progresses, both competitors exchange blows, showcasing their resilience and determination. Hardy attempts a Twist of Fate, but Jericho counters with a back body drop. Jericho then goes for the Walls of Jericho, but Hardy manages to roll through, escaping the submission hold. The action spills outside the ring, with Hardy delivering a jawbreaker on the ring apron. He attempts to capitalize by slamming Jericho into the barricade, but Jericho reverses and sends Hardy crashing into the steel steps. Back inside the ring, Jericho climbs the turnbuckle, looking to deliver a high-flying maneuver. He connects with a flying crossbody, but Hardy manages to kick out at two. The resilience of both competitors is on full display, as neither is willing to give an inch. With the clock ticking down, Jericho starts to build momentum, hitting a Lionsault on Hardy. Instead of going for the pin, Jericho opts to lock in the Walls of Jericho, cinching it in tight in the center of the ring. Hardy struggles, reaching desperately for the ropes, but Jericho has him locked in the middle of the ring. With no other option, Hardy taps out, signaling the end of the match. The bell rings, confirming Jericho as the winner of this hard-fought contest.
WINNER:
CHRIS JERICHO
via submission in 11:45
As Jericho releases the Walls of Jericho, he rises to his feet, his eyes locked on Christian and Trish Stratus. The tension in the arena is palpable as Jericho beckons Christian with an outstretched arm. Jericho: "Christian! Be a man! Get in here and fight!" Trish, with a microphone in hand, smirks as she steps closer to the ring ropes, her eyes gleaming with confidence. Trish: "You see, Chris, before you could ever screw me over, I was already one step ahead of you. This whole thing, this little obsession you had with me, it was all a bet. You thought I was just another conquest, didn't you?" She pauses, letting the words sink in before continuing. Trish: "All this time you were chasing after me, thinking you had a chance, when in reality, you were never even in my league. I wanted a 'real man,' someone who knows how to treat a woman right. That's Christian." Christian smirks, nodding in agreement as he stands beside Trish. Trish: "And let me tell you something else, Chris. With Christian by my side, we're going straight to the top. He's going to be the World Heavyweight Champion, and there's nothing you or anyone else can do about it." Christian is handed the microphone from Trish, a co*cky grin spreading across his face as he addresses the WWE Universe. Christian: "Trish is absolutely right. I am destined to be the World Heavyweight Champion, and there's not a damn thing anyone can do to stop it." He smirks, casting a disdainful glance towards Jericho before continuing. Christian: "You see, Trish didn't want some assclown like Jericho. She wanted a man who's rough, who's dirty, someone like me." The crowd erupts into a chorus of boos and starts a "CLB" chant, but Christian waves them off, dismissing their jeers. Trish: "Shut up! All of you women out there, you're just jealous of me. And you men? You're all jealous of Christian because he has me. Face it, you're all just losers, just like Chris Jericho." Christian and Trish share a smug look, reveling in the heat from the crowd as they stand united, their confidence unwavering in the face of their adversaries. Christian smirks, eyeing Jericho with a look of disdain as he continues with his diatribe. Christian: "You know what, Jericho? Maybe it's best if we're drafted to separate brands. I don't want to waste any more time with you. And let's face it, you'll never get any 'Stratusfaction'." The tension reaches a boiling point as Christian and Trish lean in for a kiss, their lips just inches apart. But before they can seal the moment, Jericho bursts into action, charging down the ramp and tackling Christian to the ground. The arena erupts as Jericho unleashes a furious assault on Christian, landing a barrage of punches. Trish attempts to intervene, but Jericho seizes her by the hair, pulling her into the ring to the delight of the crowd. Without hesitation, Jericho locks Trish in the Walls of Jericho, but his moment of triumph is short-lived as Christian strikes him from behind with a steel chair. Trish, seizing the opportunity, hits Jericho with a devastating chick kick and then proceeds to direct Christian to deliver the Unprettier onto the steel chair. With a resounding crash, Jericho is left sprawled out in the ring, motionless. Trish and Christian share a triumphant kiss, standing tall over the fallen Jericho, basking in the boos and jeers from the crowd. With their message sent loud and clear, Trish and Christian exit the ring, leaving Jericho behind in their wake of chaos and controversy. Back from commercial break and Spike Dudley is shown in the ring ready for the upcoming match. The arena dims as the haunting red lights of Kane's entrance illuminate the stage. The ominous chords of his theme song echo throughout the arena, signaling the arrival of The Big Red Machine. Kane emerges from the smoke and flames, his menacing presence casting a shadow over the entire arena. The crowd watches in awe and trepidation as Kane makes his way down the ramp.
SINGLES MATCH
SPIKE DUDLEY vs. KANE
As the bell rings, Spike Dudley wastes no time, charging at Kane with a flurry of punches and kicks, trying to use his speed to his advantage. However, Kane effortlessly swats him away, showcasing his sheer power and dominance. Kane takes control of the match, delivering a devastating series of power moves. He grabs Spike by the throat, lifting him high into the air before slamming him down with a vicious Chokeslam. Spike is unable to mount any significant offense against the overwhelming force of Kane. Kane delivers the final blow, executing a thunderous Tombstone Piledriver on Spike. Kane makes the cover, and the referee counts to three.
WINNER:
KANE
via pinfall in 1:21
After securing the victory, Kane's expression remains cold and emotionless. He grabs Spike Dudley once again, hoisting him up for another Chokeslam. Kane mercilessly slams Spike to the mat for a second time, ensuring his dominance is felt. But Kane isn't finished yet. He continues his assault, delivering a devastating series of stomps and strikes to Spike, leaving him battered and motionless in the center of the ring. The referee tries to intervene, but Kane pushes him aside, intent on inflicting more punishment. The crowd watches in horror as Kane stands tall, his dark presence filling the arena, lifting Spike Dudley and executing another TOMBSTONE PILEDRIVER. Kane is seething as more referees come and check out Spike Dudley before being stretchered out of the arena. As the camera lingers on the aftermath of Kane's brutal assault, Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler can be seen at ringside, their expressions a mix of shock and concern. "You're right, JR. That wasn't a match; that was a one-sided beatdown. You have to wonder if this is Kane's way of venting his frustrations after his loss to his brother, The Undertaker, at WrestleMania XX," King observes. Jim Ross responds, "Absolutely, King. Kane suffered a devastating defeat at the hands of The Undertaker last night. It's clear that he's taking out his frustrations on anyone who stands in his way. The Big Red Machine is more dangerous than ever, and the WWE Superstars better take notice." The camera then cuts back to the ring, focusing on the battered body of Spike Dudley, a stark reminder of the merciless onslaught unleashed by Kane. The atmosphere inside the arena is electric, with fans buzzing in anticipation of the main event. The opening chords of Shawn Michaels' legendary entrance theme, "Sexy Boy," reverberate throughout the venue, sending the crowd into a frenzy of cheers. A spotlight illuminates the entrance ramp, revealing Shawn Michaels dressed in his vibrant red and white wrestling gear, shimmering under the arena lights. With a beaming smile, HBK strides down the ramp, reaching out to touch hands with enthusiastic fans at ringside. Their chants of "HBK! HBK!" echo loudly as Michaels feeds off the energy, his iconic charisma captivating every corner of the arena. Upon reaching the ring, he ascends the steps and stands atop the turnbuckle, striking his iconic pose, further igniting the crowd's excitement. As Michaels' music fades, the intense theme of Chris Benoit begins to play, signaling the arrival of the World Heavyweight Champion. Benoit walks down the entrance ramp, his red and blue wrestling gear reflecting his Canadian heritage and showcasing his champion status. With a determined expression, Benoit acknowledges the cheers from the crowd, exchanging respectful nods with fans as he makes his way to the ring. Inside the ring, Benoit raises the prestigious World Heavyweight Championship belt high, showcasing the prize he's determined to defend. The intensity in his eyes matches the gravity of the championship match ahead, as he prepares to face off against a revered opponent in Shawn Michaels. With both competitors ready, the referee presents the World Heavyweight Championship belt, emphasizing the high stakes of this epic main event on the last Raw before the WWE Draft this Saturday Night.
WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
SHAWN MICHAELS vs. CHRIS BENOIT (c)
The two competitors lock up in a fierce collar-and-elbow tie-up, each trying to gain the early advantage. Benoit uses his technical prowess to transition into a wrist lock, but Michaels counters with a quick arm drag, sending Benoit to the mat. Michaels attempts an early Sweet Chin Music, but Benoit ducks just in time, causing Michaels to miss and nearly stumble. Both men reset, circling each other cautiously. Benoit retaliates with a series of stiff chops to Michaels' chest, echoing throughout the arena. Michaels fights back with a couple of his own chops, prompting a loud reaction from the crowd. The two continue to exchange strikes, showcasing their resilience and determination. Michaels manages to gain the upper hand with a knee lift, followed by a scoop slam that plants Benoit firmly onto the canvas. Michaels takes to the top rope, looking for an early high-risk maneuver. He leaps, connecting with a flying elbow drop, driving the wind out of Benoit. Michaels goes for the pin, but Benoit kicks out at two, showing his championship mettle. The match intensifies as Benoit counters a second Sweet Chin Music attempt with a dragon screw leg whip, targeting Michaels' knee. Sensing an opportunity, Benoit relentlessly focused his attack on Michaels' injured knee, delivering a series of punishing kicks and knee drops. Despite the pain, Michaels manages to counter a sharpshooter attempt into a small package pin, getting a close two-count. Both men get to their feet, exchanging blows once again. Michaels connects with a flying forearm, followed by a kip-up, signaling the momentum shift. Michaels attempts to capitalize with a scoop slam, but Benoit counters into a Crossface attempt. Michaels narrowly escapes, rolling Benoit into a pinning predicament for another near fall. The crowd is on the edge of their seats, the atmosphere electric with each near fall. Benoit, undeterred, catches Michaels with a snap suplex, followed by a diving headbutt from the top rope. Benoit goes for the cover, but Michaels manages to kick out at the last second. Both men are visibly exhausted but continue to fight on, trading blows in the center of the ring. Michaels summons his energy and delivers a Sweet Chin Music out of nowhere, staggering Benoit. With the crowd roaring, Michaels slowly goes for the cover, but Benoit kicks out just before the three-count. Seizing the moment, Benoit ducks ANOTHER SWEET CHIN MUSIC and kicks HBKs injured knee, buckling Michaels and locks in the Crippler Crossface, wrenching back with all his might. Michaels struggles, reaching desperately for the ropes, but the pain is too much. With no other option, Michaels reluctantly taps out, handing Benoit the hard-fought victory by submission, retaining the World Heavyweight Championship.
WINNER:
CHRIS BENOIT
via pinfall in 17:24 to retain the World Heavyweight Championship
As the bell rings and the referee hands Chris Benoit his World Heavyweight Championship, there's a mutual nod of respect between the two competitors. Shawn Michaels, the valiant challenger, extends his hand, and Benoit accepts, their handshake symbolizing the respect between two of the best wrestlers in WWE who gave their all. Michaels exits the ring, giving Benoit his moment of celebration and reflection. The crowd erupts in cheers, acknowledging the incredible display of athleticism and sportsmanship they've just witnessed. Benoit, standing tall with his championship, raises it high in the air, basking in the adoration of the fans. Just when it seems like the night's festivities are reaching a heartwarming conclusion, Triple H slides into the ring, catching Benoit completely off guard, clubbing him in the back of the head from behind. To a thunderous amount of boos, Triple H rips the sling off and laughs. In a swift and brutal move, Triple H delivers a devastating Pedigree to Benoit, laying out the champion and leaving the fans in stunned silence. But The Game isn't satisfied with just one assault. He grabs a steel chair from ringside and ruthlessly strikes Benoit across the face, opening a deep and bloody gash. The assault escalates as Triple H lifts the World Heavyweight Championship, mocking Benoit before delivering another brutal shot to the champion's face with the title belt. With Benoit left battered and bloodied, Triple H sets up the steel chair, positioning Benoit's head on it, and delivers a final, devastating Pedigree onto the unforgiving steel. The once-celebratory atmosphere has been shattered, replaced by shock and horror as Triple H stands tall over a fallen Benoit. END OF SHOW
