Saying Goodbye in 2007

This is a special post that I've put together in honor of all those entertainers that the WWE has "released" in the 2007 year. Let us have a moment of reflection about them then move on!

Chris Masters, Brooke, Daivari, King Booker, Queen Sharmell, Marcus Cor Von, Sandman, Cryme Tyme, Eugene, Shantell, Sylvain Grenier, Trinity, Sabu, Ariel, Scotty 2 Hotty, Nick Mitchell (former member of the spirit squad) and Vito.

I'm sure that no matter what endeavors these fine individuals pursue next they will be great! Thanks for the entertainment and good luck!

Farewell to 2007!

Raw kicks off with the champ Randy Orton in the ring and enjoying his limelight. 2007 was the year of the RKO! He has risen to the top and held that title and he is very proud of his accomplishments. I have to give the man credit, as much as I don't like his personality in the ring, he has delivered everything that he said he would. Congratulations Randy you have come a long way from the new kid in Evolution to being the WWE champ! Jeff Hardy comes out to respond to Randy's statement. Hardy says that Orton's statement means nothing as of late, because he hasn't been very impressive in the ring lately. In fact Jeff beat him two weeks ago on Raw. It wasn't sheer luck, it was Jeff being able to beat the champ. The tension builds as these two talk it out. They square off and Orton tries to get the RKO but fails and gets put into a twist of fate instead. This could very well be the final days of Orton's glamorous reign, 2008 could be the year of the rainbow haired warrior!

Will tonight be the end of the career of Ric Flair? He will face Triple H tonight in a career deciding match. There is so much history between these two I'm sure neither man is exactly thrilled to be put into this position. I'm not sure which way this will go, whether Triple H will throw the match intentionally to let Flair win, or whether the Game will bring it all to the table and become the MAN, when he beats the MAN! That match will be later on this evening and I am so looking forward to it!

Mr. Kennedy makes his way to the ring for his match against HBK tonight. Of course as always the fans are on their feet for Shawn Michaels. (I have to admit I was a little disappointed when he wasn't at the Chattanooga event on the 27th!) These two lock up and the match gets under way. It's on now, Shawn took his hair tie out and has a look of determination on his face. These men are brutal to each other and are out of the ring quickly. They make their way into the ring again and the match continues. Kennedy seems to be in a mood tonight, he's really taking it to Shawn tonight, but Shawn doesn't let this go on for long, he fights back aggressively. Kennedy delivers a huge surperplex to Michaels off the top rope! Shawn Michaels continues to fight back and he begins to deliver some really nice moves to Mr. Kennedy. Michaels goes up top, but Kennedy gets out of the way just in time to avoid the bump. A fantastic exchange of near falls begins and both men impress me with their ability. Kennedy gets a huge drop on Michaels and wins this match up. I am shocked that he won fair and square! Nice job!

Todd Grisham is backstage with Triple H talking about the match tonight with Ric Flair. Triple H states that he goes into every match the same and losing is not an option for him. Mr. McMahon interrupts the interview. He speaks of the history that this match will make tonight. There is a new stipulation to the match, if Triple H loses the match in any way, he will NOT be allowed to participate in the Royal Rumble. Wow! Happy New Year indeed, thanks a lot Vince, once again you show just how much of an ass clown you really can be!

William Regal and Vince are talking backstage. Vince asks Regal to prove himself tonight in a match against Hornswaggle. Finlay is supposed to be in Ireland right now, so Regal is all about showing some tough love to Hornswaggle tonight!

The next match is a Royal Rumble qualifying match. Hacksaw Jim Duggan runs to the ring. Umaga comes down to the ring looking scary as usual. These two will face off to see who will get to go to the Royal Rumble. Umaga is dominating Hacksaw and I don't think Hacksaw ever knew what hit him. Of course Umaga wins the match up and leaves Jim Duggan bloody in the ring. (Bleeding from his mouth).

Mr. McMahon talks with Ric Flair backstage. Vince makes a big deal out of this being "the last" time that Flair will WOO his fans! Of course Vince knows of the stipulation that has been put on Triple H, Flair does not. This is turning out to be more and more unfair by the minute.

John Bradshaw Layfield makes his way to the Raw ring from Smackdown to confront Chris Jericho tonight! Lord have mercy there is that ugly white limo with the cattle horns on the front. Wow could this man's intro get any longer and more explosive. Poor fans having to breathe all that smoke from those pyrotechnics! Good lord is it July 4th already and I missed it or what? Just cause you are rich doesn't mean you have to make that big of a deal out of a ring entrance. Raw must have some time to kill.....ha ha! This is the day that JBL returns. Finally Jericho comes out to face off with the tycoon. Jericho wastes no time in taking it to JBL street fight style. It takes a gang of men to pull Jericho off of JBL, but the fight doesn't end there. These two men keep at each other through the refs and backstage talent holding them back! When the commercial break is over, JBL is backstage complaining about his $500 ripped shirt, and how he was so intensely disrespected. Get over it JBL what the heck did you expect come to Raw?

Melina, Mickie James and Beth Phoenix will be in action tonight in a triple threat match for the women's championship. Mickie James and Beth Phoenix start off this match up and Melina jumps in every now and then when the mood strikes her. The Glamazon doesn't have to be the one pinned to lose her title. This is definitely an interesting match. Beth and Melina double team Mickie and it's not pretty. Many covers are made but no one seems to be able to hold still long enough to get the fall. Mickie James get a nice DDT on Melina, but Beth Phoenix breaks up the three count. Beth Phoenix gets a three count on Melina and Mickie James gets into the ring on the four count. One second too late can make or break a career in this business and Mickie is not happy with the outcome of this match, that's for certain.

Mr. McMahon and the general manager of Raw William Regal come to the ring. Hornswaggle comes out to face his competition. He is not moving very quickly, he's obviously not enthused about fighting tonight. Mr. McMahon hugs Hornswaggle before the match. The "match" gets underway. I hope Hornswaggle kicks the crap out of Regal. Mr. McMahon calls Regal over to the corner for a quick talk, while Hornswaggle capitalizes and kicks Regal. Mr. McMahon gets the brass knuckles out of Regal's jacket pocket and tosses them to him. He is to use them on Hornswaggle. Regal is very hesitant. Regal can't do it, he lets Hornswaggle go. Vince gets into the ring and slaps the taste right out of Regal's mouth. Regal failed the test that Mr. McMahon put in front on him. Vince is truly disappointed in the general manager. He dismisses Regal like Regal is nothing but trash. How awful. William Regal did the right thing only to be condemned by the big boss, what kind of stupidity is that. I'm proud that Regal didn't hurt Hornswaggle, that makes me have faith that Regal hasn't become just another McMahon puppet. Well so it goes in the squared circle.

Jeff Hardy comes out for the second time tonight to face his opponent Santino Marella. Santino is accompanied to the ring by the beautiful Maria and the not so beautiful Carlito. The match gets underway with the fans backing Hardy. Jeff Hardy is going up top for the Swanton bomb but he is interrupted by Randy Orton. Randy has got Matt Hardy backstage and is kicking the crap out of him. (Matt Hardy is recovering from an appendectomy in November. He's out cold as Jeff makes it backstage and the ambulance is on the way). I'm sure the ref will count Jeff out and Santino Marella will win this match. Blood is thicker than water, and I would attend to my siblings before thinking of myself any day of the week!

Triple H is backstage and he's talking to Ric Flair. "Do you think you stand a chance?" Triple H has to ask the legend. Ric Flair says that right now Triple H is his best friend and he is looking forward to bringing his best to the match tonight and he hopes that Triple H will do the same. This is going to be one hell of a match is nothing else!

The Cerebral Assassin and the Nature Boy are finally up. The Game makes his entrance first. Ric Flair comes out in all his splendor and glory for what may be the last time! This match gets underway. Triple H lets Ric style and profile then they finally lock up. WOOO! Both men have a lot to lose in this match and they are both giving it all they have tonight. Flair keeps finding a way to battle back from all the power that Triple H is dishing out. Flair kicks out of a near fall on two. A second near fall is avoided by Flair. Flair counters a pedigree and Triple H barely avoids a near fall. Triple H gets a sleeper hold on Flair at this point. Flair counters with a nice back suplex. Amazing! Flair lands a barrage of chops and fists on the Game. A huge double arm suplex is landed by the Nature Boy. Does he have what it takes? Flair goes to the top rope but Triple H kicks out of the cross body. It was a great try though, very vintage Ric Flair. Triple H narrowly avoids a figure four but Flair goes right back to it and gets it locked in. Will the Game tap? Triple H gets to the ropes finally and Flair has to break to hold. The Game lands a huge pedigree but can he capitalize, his knee is hurt and he's slow on getting the pin fall. William Regal comes out and interrupts the match and Ric Flair wins by disqualification. Triple H is not going to the Royal Rumble and he's not very happy about it in the least bit. Triple H helps Flair up and supports Flair as Raw comes to a close. The Nature Boy lives to fight another day, but Triple H will not get a shot at the gold at the Rumble. Unfair, yes, but the squared circle is never predictable.

2007 comes to a close, I hope that all of my readers have a safe and happy New Year and I look forward to posting next year! Thank you to the WWE for bringing me a fantastic year of memories and entertainment and I can't wait to see what happens in 2008!

I haven't forgotten to post.

I just wanted to let those of you who follow this blog to know that I have not forgotten to post lately. I did not watch Raw this last week because of the holidays and being totally exhausted and not being able to stay awake that long. However I made up for what I missed on Monday night by getting to go to a live WWE event here in Chattanooga on Thursday December 27th. I was so excited and it was the best Christmas gift that I've gotten yet!

My husband took close to 300 pictures of the event. However due to our digital camera's lack of ability to capture movement in photos, most of the shots are blurry. Let me tell you what, those guys and gals don't hold still long in the ring! I got some good shots though, one in particular of Randy Orton that turned out perfect!

William Regal came out first to kick off the event and let us know what we had to look forward to for our viewing pleasure that evening. Promises of great things to come had me jumping up and down.

The matches that night were fantastic. The beginning match was a 14 man over the top rope battle royal. The winner of this match up would face Randy Orton later that evening for the championship. No surprise here that Chris Jericho won that match and proved that he seriously wanted a shot at the champ!

Jeff Hardy was in action that night against Mr. Kennedy for the Intercontinental Championship. Of course the rainbow haired warrior pulled out all the stops and retained his title. I was so excited to see him in action it was awesome!

In the title match between Orton and Jericho, it had me on the edge of my seat literally! Chris had Orton so many times, but Orton just wouldn't stay down. It was a low blow to Jericho that kept the title with the Legend Killer. Jericho may have won the battle, but he hasn't won the war, yet!

Santino Marella and Snitsky faced off due to Santino running his mouth saying that he could beat anybody in the business because he was the best that ever way. Well Snitsky came out to show Santino just how second rate the Italian star really was. He manhandled Santino like he was a rag doll and the match went to Snitsky!

The divas had their moment to shine as well that night. There was a bikini contest that was too hot for words. Maria, Mickie James, Beth Phoenix and Melina graced the ring and showed the fans just where the assets were in the WWE. It was nice. At the end of the contest, Mickie James was the winner (voted by the adoring audience who looked on). Well Melina and Beth tried to get the best of Mickie and Maria but failed and were humiliated by the dynamic duo. It just goes to show that beauty isn't all these divas have to offer!

The main event that night was voted on by the audience as well. It was a steel cage match between Triple H and Umaga. This was the match that had me yelling and screaming like a mad woman and let me tell you that the Game is one heck of a wrestler. Seeing these two go at each other live is so much better than watching at home every Monday night. Triple H overcame the Samoan Bulldozer and won the match. Triple H spent the next 10 minutes or so interacting with the fans and allowing plenty of opportunity for some very candid shots. I almost got close enough to touch him but I didn't want to push my way through the crowd just to get to him, that would have been rude. Maybe next time!

Overall it was a great night and I felt very lucky to get to see these folks in live action. I have a great respect for all those in the wresting industry and it was intensified by seeing the performance up close and personal. This is the second event that I have attended. The first one was a few years back while I was living in California and it was a live taping of Monday Night Raw. That was an impressive event, because it had all the bells and whistles that Monday Night Raw is known for, with the exception of not being able to hear King and JR making commentary. That's only for the at home audience to enjoy.

I would recommend that every fan go to an event at least once, you won't be disappointed and you might get a whole new perspective on how hard these guys and gals work just to provide us with entertainment!

New beginnings after Armageddon?

The divas kick off Monday night Raw tonight. A Santa's little helper's match is lined up for our viewing pleasure. The tiny little outfits are enough to get my attention that's for sure! Maria and Jillian Hall start off this match up. Mickie James scores a win for her team and all the women run into the ring and the cat fight begins. Mr. McMahon comes out looking not so happy. In fact he looks really disgusted. He tells the divas to beat it and makes a statement. He addresses the fact that he got beat up and humiliated last week on Raw by the superstars.  He's going for sympathy but I don't think he's getting it from this crowd tonight. "I'm a human being" he states. He says he's so heartbroken that everyone made fun of him last week and seems to enjoy his discomfort. Jeff Hardy comes out to say something about it all. Jeff compares Mr. McMahon to Sadaam Hussein. Wow! That's a bold statement.

Mr. McMahon collapses in the ring corner and is either crying or too depressed to face the music anymore. Broken down by Jeff Hardy's reality check of "You don't give a damn about anyone, that's why no one gives a damn about you. We don't want to hate on you, but you give us no choice!" When the commercial break ends, they are trying to talk Mr. McMahon out of the ring. William Regal is doing his best. Then out come Triple H to have his say. Triple H dismisses Regal and starts talking to Vince. No response. "Ladies and gentlemen mark the time, Vince McMahon has officially flipped!" He then apologizes to Vince about the antics of last week. William Regal starts to threaten Triple H but once Triple H stands up he hesitates for just a second. He threatens to have security throw out Triple H if he doesn't leave the ring. Mr. McMahon is trying to get up. He makes it to his feet. He grabs the microphone away from Triple H and starts to try to talk. He asks for Jonathan Coachman. Triple H will be in a match tonight against William Regal and Jonathan Coachman. Vince then says he hopes that something bad happens to each and every person tonight. Wow, I've never been cursed by a McMahon before!

This has got to be the strangest handicap match that I've seen yet. Triple H looks bored. None of these men are dressed for competition and street clothes are worn by all. Interesting. Coach and Regal can't think they have a chance in hell, do they? Triple H bounces Regal off the announcer's table and Coach tries to help the general manager. To no avail though, but the two men begin to really work over the cerebral assassin. Triple H fights back and begins taking turns beating the two suit clad men. William Regal grabs brass knuckles from under the ring and attempts to cheat the Game out of this match. Coach gets the knuckles which were knocked off Regal's hand, and he gets caught by Triple H. He relinquishes the knuckles. A huge pedigree finds Coach and Triple H wins it (is it a big surprise)?

Cody Rhodes and Hardcore Holly defend the tag team championship belts against Lance Cade and Trevor Murdock. Are the new tag champs going to be one week wonders? Hardcore Holly sure is taking it to Trevor Murdock. Murdock almost gets a three count on Holly, but Holly kicks out at the last second. Holly makes a much needed tag to Rhodes and Cody comes in and goes at Lance Cade with passion. Rhodes lands a DDT on Lance Cade and wins it! He ensures that the tag titles won't be changing hands this week!

Ric Flair will be defending his job tonight against the Samoan Bulldozer Umaga. He makes a very heartfelt speech about being in this business for 35 years and loving every minute of it. He won't retire and he's going to make sure that he puts his all into every match he fights. He's not intimidated in the slightest. He makes his way to the ring. Umaga comes out looking like a rabid animal like always. The match begins with no hesitations and Flair is styling and profiling around the ring. Umaga is devastating Flair like he were a rag doll. Umaga gets that numbing hold on Flair, but the fans are behind Flair and he gets to his feet. Only to be taken down again by Umaga. Odds don't appear to be in Flair's favor right now. Umaga keeps going for pin falls but Flair keeps getting his shoulders up before the count. Flair is trying so hard, but I'm not sure he has it in him to take on Umaga. Size alone is a huge factor (no pun intended!). Umaga tries to fly high, but ends up head butting the mat, he totally misses Flair. Flair seems to be powering back and getting some really good hits in. Flair ends up on the outside against the security wall and the count out begins. Umaga goes through the security wall trying to crush Flair, but Flair makes it back into the ring to stop his count out. However Umaga is counted out and Flair wins this match. Luck is with the Nature Boy tonight, that's for sure!

Y2J comes out. He's issued a challenge to JBL from Smackdown due to JBL's interference in Y2J's match last night at Armageddon, costing Jericho the title. Jericho is very angry and he wants revenge. JBL is via satellite to confront Jericho about what happened last night. JBL is too good to come to Raw, he's a business man and has more responsibilities that are more important than Chris Jericho. Jericho says he's going to be on Smackdown Friday night and ask the questions that he wants answers to face to face with JBL then. JBL and Mr. McMahon have an agreement that states if Jericho goes after JBL the he will never have the chance to be champ again. He also will forfeit his spot in the Royal Rumble. Jericho says that JBL is no longer a wrestling god, but a wrestling afterthought. JBL seems taken aback. JBL is coming to Raw and he's going to show Jericho just how much of a wrestling god he is. I assume this will take place next week? Oh boy! I think Jericho is right, JBL sold out when he quit being a member of the APA and became the Texas Millionaire with the cattle horns on his white limo. I mean seriously. It's all very ridiculous. It just goes to show that retirement in the WWE is not permanent.

Santino Marella comes out accompanied by Maria. His tag team partner for this match will be Carlito and they are against Paul London and Brian Kendrick. This match could prove to be the most entertaining one yet tonight! Santino starts this match up against Brian Kendrick. Brian's quickness and savvy is getting Santino is caught off guard. Paul London is in the ring and is really showing how talented he is. Fluid movement and no hesitation in execution of moves. Carlito is distracted by Santino which allows London a good shot at him. Kendrick is tagged in and the fight continues. Carlito gets the back stabber on Kendrick winning the match for his team tonight. Santino seems all too happy to be partners with Carlito and says they are a force to be reckoned with. This remains to be seen in my opinion. (All I have to say is Kane and Undertaker, now that's a force!)

Todd Grisham is interviewing Randy Orton. Randy Orton says that he's killed the virus that is Y2J. Jeff Hardy is going to face Orton at the Royal Rumble. Orton is the killer of hope and dreams, he's going to devastate Hardy, he's sure of it.

Triple H and Ric Flair are talking backstage when Mr. McMahon walks up. He says that the next match that Flair will be in is going to be against Triple H since they are so buddy buddy. That's just not fair, but hopefully Triple H will let Flair win so we don't have to send him to the retirement home just yet.

Jeff Hardy comes out for his tag team match with Shawn Michaels tonight against Mr. Kennedy and Randy Orton. Hey it's a recap of Armageddon all in one match! Orton and Hardy start off this match. This match is explosive and all the men involved are dead set on winning. Randy Orton and Mr. Kennedy do some nice double team action on Jeff Hardy. They have their guns set to kill, they went well beyond stun matches ago. (Poor attempt at Star Trek humor). Jeff Hardy gets a much needed tag to Shawn Michaels and the war is on. Michaels and Mr. Kennedy blow up at one another (almost literally). Orton gets in the ring and he's stomping all over Michaels. Then Kennedy is back in and wearing down Michael's even more. A huge boot to the face of Michaels may end up the deciding factor in this match. Mr. Kennedy is absolutely brutal tonight. Both men end up on their backs in the ring and they both make the tags to their partners. It's Hardy and Orton. Hardy lands a twist of fate and a swanton bomb on Orton to win the match for him and Michaels tonight. Orton better be weary, he was just pinned by the #1 contender! Never underestimate the power of the rainbow haired warrior!

Be sure to tune in next week for the Christmas Eve tribute to the troops! Same Raw time, same Raw channel!

15 years and still going strong!

Mr. McMahon and his children Stephanie and Shane make their way to the ring to kick off this celebration of 15 years of Monday night Raw! Mr. McMahon tries to get the family photo taken but Hornswaggle runs out just in time to be in the photo. Vince doesn't look happy. Right as the photo is about to be snapped, Triple H comes out and interrupts the festivities. He insists on being part of the "family" portrait as well as some people that should be part of the photo too. Out comes Melina, Sunny (blast from the past!), Mae Young (eww)! Then Triple H calls out those men who were mistaken for women and taken advantage of by Mr. McMahon. Man this night gets funnier and funnier. Then Stephanie tells her Dad that he's got problems and that she is going to embarrass him. She walks right up to Triple H and lays a huge kiss on him. Triple H then says that he'll "see her at home" and Vince walks out all pissed off. At this point I am about to die laughing. Triple H calls out the one man that can make it all better for Hornswaggle who wanted a memorable night with his "family". The Godfather comes out with his HOOOOO train and beautiful women fill the ring. Hornswaggle sure does look happy to be here now!

A huge ladder match is set up for the Intercontinental championship between Jeff Hardy and Carlito. Jeff's got this one in the bag, ladder matches are his specialty! Carlito doesn't even lock up with Jeff but slides outside and grabs a ladder right off the bat. Jeff takes it to the face as Carlito gets a good shot in. Jeff isn't going to stand for that, so he retaliates back against Carlito. This becomes a who can hurt who more match quick and the fight is on! Both men are equally responsive and quick to counter in this match up so far. Jeff takes a huge risk and it doesn't pay off as he tries to get the advantage over Carlito. Suddenly Carlito starts to dominate this match and I can't believe how well he is doing. When did he get so good in these matches? Despite being injured Jeff manages to land a Swanton Bomb on Carlito and begins to set up to climb that ladder to get the belt. Carlito stops him just as he begins to climb up, then gets the back stabber on Jeff. Carlito climbs the ladder and gets one hand on the belt. Jeff scales up the ladder knocking Carlito out of the ring and retains the title! I knew Jeff would win, he always does! Our rainbow haired warrior gives yet another fantastic match!

Todd Grisham is interviewing Shawn Michaels. He was on the very first Monday Night Raw where he defended his intercontinental championship! There is going to be a match tonight, Mr. Kennedy vs Marty Jannetty! This is going to be awesome!

Santino Marella is in the ring with Maria to bitch about the show tonight. He is interrupted by none other than Rob Van Dam. The match gets underway immediately. I'm glad to see RVD back in action that's for sure! I've missed his wrestling style and creativeness in the ring. RVD wins it in less than a minute! Welcome back RVD!

All four original members of Evolution come out to have a few words. Ric Flair, Batista, Triple H and Randy Orton all in one ring! Orton stops short and doesn't go to the ring immediately. He is refusing to come out there to join them because he's the champ! He's above all that now! He reminds the other three members of Evolution what happened the last time he was champ and associated with them. They beat the hell out of him that night. Triple H makes commentary about Orton being a huge pain in the ass. Orton introduces Edge and says he is more proud to be a member of Rated RKO than Evolution. Batista invites Edge to come ringside to talk trash to his face. There is going to be a match tonight Edge, Randy Orton and Umaga vs Ric Flair, Triple H and Batista. The surprises never cease! (it's only 9pm woo hoo!)

This match gets underway with some intensity and pain is going to be felt by all I'm sure! Orton is beating the heck out of Ric Flair and looks to be enjoying it while he does it. Triple H and Batista take care of Edge and Orton but Umaga manhandles the referee and gets the match called due to disqualification. Edge and Orton run away quick and Triple H is left in the ring with Umaga and his two teammates from Evolution. Umaga gets all three members of Evolution's finishing moves and the teammates win it!

Hornswaggle is in a match next against the Punjabi giant, the Great Khali. Will Hornswaggle be able to survive Mr. McMahon's tough love. He will with the help of Hulk Hogan! (The fans are on their feet!) Hogan gets Khali on the mat and he rolls out of the ring. Hogan has the upper hand in this one. Hulk-a-mania is in the house tonight!

Howard Finkel is announcing a 15 man battle royal. Out comes Al Snow, Bart Gunn, Doink the clown, Repo Man, Steve Blackman, Pete Gass, Bob Backlund, Gangrel, Scotty 2 Hotty, Jim, Neidhardt, Sgt. Slaughter, Gillberg, plus three others that came out during the commercial break that I have no clue who they are. (IRS, Flash Funk and the Goon). IRS wins it and the Million Dollar Man comes out Mr. Ted Dibiase. He pays off the IRS man and Ted Dibiase wins the battle royal! I about died laughing here. It just goes to show that everybody has a price and the million dollar man can always match it!

Eric BIschoff is in the ring to make his speech about his time in the WWE. No matter how much things change, they always stay the same! The McMahon's are going to be dependent on Eric Bischoff to reinvent the business year after year, or so he says. Y2J comes out and has a couple of words for him. Bischoff is the one who "fired" Jericho 2 years ago. Jericho tells Bischoff to shut the hell up and tells him he is an ass clown! (classic Jericho). The insults start flying. Jericho threatens to kick Bischoff's ass right here and now. Bischoff gets a face full of Jericho's fist, but Orton runs out to interfere. Jericho counters Orton's interference and gets the walls of Jericho on Orton. Orton taps like a little girl and we get a glimpse of how good Sunday at Armageddon is going to be!

Dusty Rhodes is joining the announcers tonight to watch the match that his son Cody Rhodes is in. Cody Rhodes and Hardcore Holly vs Lance Cade and Trevor Murdock. This match is going to be for the tag team championship! Cody and Lance start this match off in a big way. The match continues in an explosive manner and Hardcore Holly takes it to Trevor Murdock. Rhodes and Holly win it and are the new tag team champs! Sweet! Dusty Rhodes gets into the ring to congratulate his son on his first championship in the WWE.

Jillian Hall is in the ring singing again. Oh lord where is my remote, mute mute mute! Nooooo! We are saved by Trish Stratus! Trish let's Jillian know that her singing sucks. Jillian doesn't take that very well. Lita comes out and there is some tension between Trish and Lita. Lita and Trish take it to Jillian and kick the crap out of her. (Finally!) Lita and Trish hug to show that they are on the same page this time around!

Kane and Lita run into each other backstage. They attempt small talk and it's all very awkward. Ron Simmons comes over to interject his views on it, DAMN!

Mr. Kennedy comes out for his match against Marty Jannetty. This match came about because of Mr. Kennedy's fun at the expense of Shawn Michaels pride last week on Raw. The match gets underway and we'll see who the best man is! Jannetty starts off strong but Mr. Kennedy gets the upper hand early on in this match up. Kennedy works over the legs of Jannetty to weaken the foundation that the former Rocker has. Unfortunately Mr. Kennedy beats Marty for the win. He doesn't stop there he keeps beating on Jannetty and Shawn Michaels comes out and a brawl starts between Michaels and Kennedy. Triple H comes out to help Shawn Michaels. DX is in the house on Monday night Raw!

Mr. McMahon is back in the ring to announce the greatest superstar in Raw history. "And the winner of this prestigious honor is......." Vincent Kennedy McMahon! (what??) out comes Mankind (Mick Foley) to say a few words about that. Vince gets a mouth full of Mr. Socko at the hands of Mankind tonight. Suddenly Undertaker's music begins, and out comes the dead man himself Undertaker! Mr. McMahon may need some help. Oopps! A huge choke slam from hell lands the chairman on his face in the ring. The lights go out and Undertaker is gone, but replaced by Stone Cold Steve Austin. Of course Austin has something to say about it. (WHAT?) Austin offers a beer to Mr. McMahon. Austin lays down right next to Mr. McMahon but it isn't working out too well to drink laying down. Two more beers are thrown in for celebratory purposes. Mr. McMahon looks ill. Stone cold gets tired of waiting so he delivers a very deliberate Stunner to the Chairman and it's just like old times!

Congratulations WWE for 15 years of the most entertaining programming in the history of entertainment! We love you!

Raw and real, gearing up for Armageddon!

The electrifying Chris Jericho kicks off Monday night Raw in a way that only he can! Jericho claims that he manipulated Randy Orton last week to get what he wanted. He wanted a title match and Orton granted Jericho that match last Monday after Raw went off the air. At Armageddon it will be Jericho vs. Orton for the title! Randy Orton comes out to have his say in this matter too. Blah blah blah....whine whine whine.....typical Orton commentary. Jericho and Orton exchange words about who the better man is and who will come out victorious at Armageddon. They square off like they are about to fight it out, but William Regal comes out in the nick of time. He says that they will both be in action tonight, and they get to pick each other's opponent. Randy Orton chooses Umaga to fight Jericho tonight. Jericho chooses Shawn Michaels to fight Orton tonight. I have to say that I think Orton got the better end of this deal tonight. I'd much rather fight Shawn Michaels than Umaga any day!

Maria and Mickie James face off against Melina and the Glamazon Beth Phoenix. Are we going to get a preview of Armageddon which Mickie facing off against Beth tonight? Maria and Melina kick it off and Maria is getting much better in her athletic maneuvers. Beth Phoenix and Mickie James face off and it's pure fire and relentlessness from Mickie. Beth powers back quickly and becomes the dominant force in this match. The Glamazon gets a huge 3 count from Mickie and wins the match for herself and her tag partner Melina. It's not looking like Armageddon is going to be in the favor of Mickie James.

Todd Grisham is interviewing Shawn Michaels about his match up tonight with Randy Orton. As Shawn is talking, he is rudely interrupted by Mr. Kennedy on the television monitor behind him. He warns Shawn about their match Armageddon and promises something in the ring tonight that is a blast from the past that just might break Shawn's heart. I wonder what that could mean?

Mr. Kennedy makes his way to the ring to reveal his surprise for Shawn Michaels. Three of Shawn Michael's friends are called to the ring to talk to Mr. Kennedy. Out comes a very fake Marty Jannetty, Razor Ramon and Diesel. (Seems like Mr. Kennedy has been doing his homework about Shawn Michaels past matches!). Man these guys are hideous looking. Then a substitute Shawn Michaels comes out. Wow this guy is very ugly, Shawn is either backstage laughing his butt off or being really offended by this show of stupidity from the mouth of Raw. The real Heartbreak Kid comes out to shut up this little show. Shawn super kicks all the imposters in the ring except for himself, who happens to escape the ring with Mr. Kennedy. I think this is totally stupid and I hope HBK kicks Mr. Kennedy's butt at Armageddon!

William Regal and Triple H are backstage discussing why Regal made the match between Triple H and Jeff Hardy at Armageddon. Regal says that the winner of this match will get a championship match at the Royal Rumble. Does Triple H respect Jeff Hardy too much to be completely victorious in this match up? Triple H says that he would not only pedigree his own mother and grandmother for a chance at the championship again. He would pedigree his own Father-in-law! (Man that's desire right there, he's so dedicated!). The look on Regal's face after that comment was made was priceless.

The Samoan bulldozer makes his way to the ring for his match against Y2J tonight. After 2 years away from the ring will Jericho have what is takes to fight a man as large and dominant as Umaga? During the commercial break apparently Jericho showed his upper hand to Umaga early on in this match. Umaga fights back and overpowers Jericho tossing him right out of the ring into the black retaining wall. Jericho is not looking very fresh right now, as Umaga continues to battle back and dominate the savior Y2J. Umaga gets the nerve hold locked in and Jericho cries out in pain as the hold begins numbing his right side. It's brutal. Jericho manages to get to his feet, and trip Umaga. Umaga gets a face full of Umaga's foot and this begins the upper hand of the Samoan Bulldozer yet again. Jericho at least gets out of the ring before Umaga pancakes him into the corner and manages to get a flying jump off the top rope to take Umaga to the mat. This match seems pretty even split, with both men getting some good licks in on each other. Randy Orton runs out and interrupts the match the delivers a huge RKO on the Iotola of Rock N Rolla knocking him senseless. The match is called for outside interference and Orton leaves the ring looking like a viper that has just struck.

Hornswaggle McMahon will be in a handicap match tonight against Carlito and Jonathan Coachman. This will be a no disqualification match up, tough love is definitely on order tonight. Carlito and Coach are in the ring making fun of Hornswaggle. Hornswaggle asks Lillian Garcia to announce the he has "hired" protection for this match. Out comes the original APA! Bradshaw and Farooq come out and help Hornswaggle to pick up another win for himself, keeping the luck of the Irish going for the McMahon family!

Jeff Hardy will need all the high flying magic he has tonight to keep his Intercontinental Championship in his match against Snitsky. Will Jeff have what it takes to defeat this ogre? Snitsky is dominant from the get go in this match up. He's not leaving a whole lot of room for Jeff to take risks or get the upper hand. Jeff is battling back, but he just can't seem to out maneuver Snitsky at this point. The sheer size difference and weight difference seems a bit unfair to me. I'm biased because I'm a huge Jeff Hardy fan though. Jeff finally gets some drop kicks in and starts to turn this match around just a bit. Jeff lands a huge Swanton bomb and keeps his championship! Snitsky doesn't let it end there, he keeps beating on Jeff after the match is called. He goes outside the ring and grabs a steel chair bringing it into the ring. Triple H comes out with the sledgehammer and Snitsky thinks better of it and leaves. Is Triple H targeting Jeff with that sledgehammer? (No please don't!) Triple H helps him to his feet them pulls him in close for some trash talk that isn't audible for the viewers at home. What he said was, "The next time I see you it won't be under friendly circumstances". Triple H then walks out of the ring leaving Jeff to ponder that statement.

Tonight's main even is none other than Shawn Michaels vs Randy Orton. The fans are on their feet for HBK as he makes his way to the ring. Will Shawn land the sweet chin music tonight, to make up for Survivor Series when it wasn't legal? One can only hope. Randy Orton comes out looking unimpressed with his opponent. I remember the days when Randy Orton was a "good" guy and wrestled his butt off to get respect. Now he is cocky, arrogant and a manipulator. Even the good guys can be tempted to the dark side. These two go at each other quick and brutally. Shawn Michaels is utilizing those submission holds yet again to weaken the self proclaimed Legend Killer. Randy battles back and breaks the hold. He stomps on the side of HBK's face. Orton begins to get his upper hand in this match as he battles against Michaels. There are some nice counters and maneuvering from both men at this point. HBK gets the ankle lock twice. The second time Orton gets to the ropes and Shawn has to break the hold. Shawn gets Orton on the outside and sets him up for the sweet chin music, but Orton moves and Shawn accidentally kicks the timekeeper (poor guy!) Orton gets Shawn in the ring and lays him out cold with a DDT. Orton then proceeds to stomp and weaken the heartbreak kid. No longer does HBK have the upper hand. Orton has powered back and is showing his dominance to Shawn. Michaels refuses to give up and he continues to get his licks in when he can on the champ. Michaels builds momentum and goes up top to get the elbow on Orton. Shawn tunes up the band and is interrupted by Mr. Kennedy. Michaels jumps out of the ring to knock Kennedy down. The match is called due to a count out but Michaels and Kennedy wrestle themselves through the audience to the back of the arena. Chris Jericho then comes out to get some of the champ. He tries to get the walls of Jericho on Orton, but Orton got lucky and escaped. Armageddon is sure going to be an explosive pay per view.

Stephanie McMahon shows up to talk to her Dad. She is concerned about next week's 15th anniversary episode of Raw. She doesn't want to see him get beat up again and she asks him to not go to Raw next week. He of course is pig headed and isn't intimidated by anyone the he has invited to the show next week. Tune in next week at 8 Eastern Time for the three hour Anniversary episode!

Are we saved? Y2J's return to Monday nights!

Triple H and Jeff Hardy are kicking off an electric Monday night Raw tonight against Snitsky and his tag team partner Umaga. These four have a beef that stems from last week's Raw when Jeff Hardy was in a match against Umaga. During that match Snitsky ran out and began beating Jeff like a government mule. Triple H wasn't going to stand for that so he came to the aid of Hardy cleaning house like only the King of Kings can do. This is going to be an intense match.

Hardy and Snitsky kick off the match up. Hardy wastes no time in tagging in his partner and Triple H comes into the ring to lock up with the big ugly. Triple H and Hardy make quick tags to one another and Jeff uses his high flying ability to conquer the two big men. Triple H helps out and the ring is cleared of the Samoan bulldozer and the self proclaimed lover of causing pain. You would think with the money that comes with a wrestling career that Snitsky could at least afford to get his teeth fixed. Man that dude is more than ugly. Do other viewers hate the commercial interruptions in the middle of matches as much as I do? I've been to a live event before, I guess it ruined the commercial breaks for me. When you go to a live event you see it all with nothing to interrupt that. It's wonderful. Back to the match: Umaga and Snitsky are making easy pickings of Jeff. He makes a much needed tag to his fresh and feisty partner Triple H and the house is again on it's feet for the Game. It's starting to get brutal and bodies are being put to the test here tonight. While Triple H and Snitsky are on the outside beating each other, Hardy and Umaga are inside. Triple H saves Jeff from a bulldozer from Umaga and fantastic teamwork wins the match for Jeff and the Cerebral Assassin. Then out comes general manager William Regal to make an announcement. He mentions that he would like to see the Game in action at Armageddon with Triple H. Against each other. Neither man looks very happy about this decision but work is work all other feelings left aside.

The Nature Boy Ric Flair walks out in all his splendor and glory as the fans in Flair country are on their feet. He has a big announcement to make. He is talking of retirement. He is very emotional about this decision, but I have to admit it's long overdue. Then he surprises everyone by saying he's not going to retire until he is cold an dead in that ring. All those rumors about him retiring were just that, rumors. Out comes the chairman to the ring to make a statement of his own. Mr. McMahon comes out to say that he likes the fact the Ric is never going to retire. As long as he keeps on winning. The first match that he loses however will be his last as Mr. McMahon says that he'll be fired if he loses. That will either light a fire under the Nature Boy or be the end of the legend's career. Of course out comes Randy Orton to say something as well. He says that he has come out to thank Ric about the advice that he has given him at the beginning of his career. He thanks Flair for his friendship and for being the legend that all of us grew up with. Randy Orton vs Ric Flair tonight in Charlotte NC. Will Ric be able to capitalize and keep his career, or will the self proclaimed "Legend Killer" earn yet another notch on his yardstick?

An eight man tag team match is in the ring and about to kick off as we come back from commercial break. It's looking like Super Crazy, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Hardcore Holly and Cody Rhodes vs Rory McAllister, Robbie McAllister, Lance Cade and Trevor Murdock. The match breaks down rather quickly and it's hard to tell who the legal men in the ring are. Hardcore Holly gets a count out over Robby McAllister, winning the match for his team.

Todd Grisham is interviewing Jeff Hardy about his match at Armageddon against Triple H. He says it's an honor to be facing the game at Armageddon. Triple H comes up and says that he isn't really good with the "friend" thing, and that whatever roll they may be on now ends when they step in that ring at Armageddon.

Mr. Kennedy is promoting Shawn Michaels new DVD about his career Heartbreak and Triumph. He has nothing nice to say about it and makes Shawn Michaels look like a chump. I hope Shawn kicks his ass tonight, that's just blatant disrespect for the career of a man who paved the way for kids like Mr. Kennedy! Kennedy is a jerk and he shows his colors in full force with this segment.

Y2J comes out and makes his way to the ring. Will he be in action tonight or is he just making commentary? Either way I'm sure it will be entertaining! He's definitely an entertainer, one of the best! He came back to Raw to save us from Randy Orton and to take that championship from the Legend Killer. He is totally belittling Randy Orton and it's classic Jericho! He even uses visual aids to help Randy Orton to understand that he wants a title match. I'm laughing so hard right now I can't see to type. He is answered instead by Santino Marella. He calls Y2J, KYJ and begins to talk trash. I'm sorry but you don't talk trash to the king of the trash talkers on Raw. This is the funniest exchange I've seen yet. Santino challenges Jericho to a match and Y2J says, "ok!" It's on, but first Santino needs to warm up. He then jumps the announcers table and beats up King. Man what a warm up! The match will resume when the show comes back from commercial break, I can't wait for the Iotola of Rock N Rolla to kick Santino's butt all the way back to Italy!

The match kicks off and Jericho is looking good. It's like he'd never been gone. He was out of action for two years while he pursued other aspects of his career with his band Fozzy. Jericho is taking it to Santino. However Santino isn't just some weakling and he gives Jericho a run for his money! The fans are behind Jericho which helps him to power back and take control of the match once again. Jericho wins it! It's nice to see that he's totally back in action. Congratulations Jericho! However it's not over when King steps in the ring and beats the crap out of Santino. Good job King, he deserves it!

Shawn Michaels is backstage and giving Ric Flair a pep talk before his match against Randy Orton tonight. It's very heartfelt and I find myself tearing up just a bit. Ric Flair promises that he will deliver everything that he's got and he'll either be triumphant or he'll go out in a blaze of glory!

Brian Kendrick is in the ring taking on Mr. Kennedy tonight. Guess Mr. Kennedy had to get out some of his frustrations over Shawn Michaels new DVD release. He is really taking it to Brain Kendrick tonight. He makes quick work of Kendrick and wins the match in less time than it took to me type this up. (ok not really but it seemed that way!) Kennedy says that is just a sample of what he's going to do do Shawn Michaels at Armageddon!

Mr. McMahon is talking to Hornswaggle about his luck lately on Raw. It's the luck of the Irish. He talks about putting Finlay in a match against the Great Khali at Armageddon. He then sends Hornswaggle out to get him an ice cream sandwich, and it's a trap so Carlito can beat him up. Which totally backfires in Carlito's face. Hornswaggle spray paints a door on the wall then "magically" goes through it. Don't mess with a leprechaun, it's bad luck! Ron Simmons agrees, Damn!

Beth Phoenix is in the ring to watch the next match. Mickie James vs Melina in a #1 contender match for a chance to face the Glamazon at Armageddon. Is it just me or does Melina's outfit tonight remind you of Hot Wheels? It's cute! There is no love exchanged between these two women as they battle for their chance at the title. Mickie James wins it and she will face Beth Phoenix at Armageddon for the championship.

Ric Flair makes his way to the ring and the whole locker room is there to cheer him on! Triple H says "show him who you are!" I'm not sure how this match is going to pan out, but either way I think it'll do justice to the Nature Boy!

Randy Orton comes out first for this match up. Ric Flair comes out to some huge ovations as the fans are on their feet! Will this be the last time we see a bejeweled robe such as this? No matter how great Randy Orton thinks he is, you know that he has to be just a little humbled to be in the ring with one the greatest wrestlers that this business has ever seen! Ric Flair kicks off this match up with fire and gusto. He's all over the champ but that is short lived as the champ gets Flair in a corner and dishes out a beating of his own. It's old school vs the next generation in this match up! Randy Orton takes time to stomp on Flair as if he were punctuating a point. Flair is quickly losing his gusto as Orton battles on. Orton brutalizes Flair on the outside of the ring and I'm not sure he's going to make it back in by a ten count. He is struggling and he makes it. Flair shows that it's not over yet as he tries to battle back into this match. Flair gets the figure 4 in the center of the ring is it over? Orton makes it to the ropes, barely. A huge RKO is landed on Flair. Flair gets the rope and the count is broken. The crowd chants Nature Boy as they try to get Flair back into this match. Jericho distracts the ref long enough so Ric Flair can get a low blow on Orton, and Flair wins it! He's not so easily put down. The dirtiest player in the game is still in action and he's got one very angry champ to deal with. That however is for another time and another place, tonight it's all about Jericho and Orton eyeing each other like two wild animals fighting over a kill. The best laid plans are ruined in heartbeat Mr. McMahon, don't you forget it!

The survivors are going strong!

HBK kicks off Monday night Raw to a full house! A huge ovation for the heartbreak kid after his match with Randy Orton last night at Survivor Series. Shawn admits that the better man won last night. (wow!) He calls out Randy Orton so he can "shake his hand". Orton isn't buying it and he comes onto the Titan Tron to tell Shawn Michaels that he isn't coming down to the ring. Shawn Michaels says that if Orton had come ringside he was going to kick him again, but only after he challenged him to a rematch. (You have to love his joking nature!) Orton refuses to dignify Michaels challenge with a response. Orton claims that Michaels had his chance and now it's over. Then out comes Mr. Kennedy to have his say in the matter, of course. Shawn doesn't waist any time in starting the fight. He clotheslines Kennedy and the fight is on. Kennedy is out there to say it's his turn for a shot at the title. However he has to make it past Shawn Michaels first. Shawn challenges him to an impromptu match right here right now! They stare each other down with an intensity that is only seen only when a title belt is involved. William Regal comes out and calls for a referee and starts the match up, these two are going to face off to see who truly in entitled to a shot at championship gold!

Michaels doesn't waste any time in getting out of the ring and beating the crap out of Mr. Kennedy. The bell hasn't even sounded yet and these two have already worn each other out. Kennedy begins fighting back but Shawn doesn't just stand there and take it either. They fight themselves right out into the crowd at one point, it's crazy. Kennedy tries to bring a chair into the ring and gets it super kicked right upside his head. This match is over before it ever even began. Shawn makes his point. I think Mr. Kennedy will be a bit more quiet this evening after that shot! Hope he's got dental insurance!

Santino Marella comes out and he has challenged Jerry the King Lawler to yet another match. He is not satisfied with getting the taste smacked out of his mouth last week apparently. King is in the ring with his proper ring attire on tonight and he's ready to go. Marella refuses to lock up and he just talks crap. So King takes the initiative and kicks Marella in the face. That's one way to start things off. The match up begins finally. Marella is so full of himself I'm not sure what Maria sees in him. What a jerk! Marella makes his way to the announcers table and puts on King's crown and says he's going to beat Jerry Lawler like a government "dog!" (It's mule stupid, not dog!) He makes fun of King for a bit, but then gets a face full of fist by King. King beats Marella and then Randy Orton runs out and RKO's King for no reason. What the hell? Randy Orton is making a speech about his "passing of the torch". I have no idea what he's talking about, but he's an idiot I don't care how cute he is! Poor King, where's Stone Cold when you need him?

Todd Grisham is interviewing Mr. Kennedy who is still holding his face. He says that he was trying to come ringside to show Shawn Michaels some respect and got a chair kicked into his face. He is appalled at the actions of the show stopper. Mr. Kennedy is very intense in his speech saying that he will meet up with Shawn again and it won't be pretty.

Mr. McMahon is talking with William Regal and Jonathan Coachman. They are discussing what they liked best about Survivor Series. They are totally ragging on poor Hornswaggle. Mr. McMahon isn't looking very pleased. Carlito comes in and interrupts the meeting. Carlito starts talking about tough love and how much he respects Mr. McMahon for showing Hornswaggle tough love last night. Mr. McMahon asks Carlito how he would like to take on Hornswaggle tonight? Carlito is laughing so hard, he thinks Mr. McMahon is kidding. Nope, it's a real match folks. Mr. McMahon is not happy with Regal or Coach at this point.

Jeff Hardy makes his way to the ring for his match with Umaga tonight. One has to wonder in what shape Jeff is in after that Survivor Series elimination match last night? Jeff looks confident in the ring as he awaits his opponent. Umaga comes out look unhappy as usual. Jeff doesn't waste any time in starting this match up. Jeff is going to have to rely on his speed and agility to keep the intensity on Umaga if he has any hopes to topple the Samoan bulldozer. For all the hits that Jeff dishes out, Umaga comes back with ones that knock Jeff down cold. It's a show of dominance vs fearlessness. Umaga locks in the pinch hold that numbs the arm of his opponent. Jeff is struggling but he makes it to his feet. He is knocked back down quickly by Umaga however. Umaga resumes the pinch hold and continues to weaken the rainbow haired warrior. Hardy struggles back to his feet, but does he have the strength to continue? He narrowly avoids a bull rush by Umaga. He tries to go to the top rope but is knocked off the apron by Umaga. This is not going to be a simple match. I think that the only move Umaga has the strength to muster tonight is that pinch hold. He gets is yet again on Hardy and Jeff is struggling to get to his feet. Hardy lifts up Umaga but his back couldn't hold the heavy weight and Umaga falls on him. Jeff narrowly avoids a three count. Just when you think that Jeff is out for the count, he manages to break out of the count and get up. The heart of Jeff Hardy is admirable, but how much can one man's body take before it gives out? Jeff goes up top and is caught by Umaga who then tosses him like a rag doll. He goes for the pin fall and Jeff kicks out yet again. (That's why I love Jeff Hardy, pure athlete!) Jeff gets a near fall on Umaga who kicks out at 2. I think both these men are going to need chiropractic care after this match. Jeff manages to land the twist of fate on Umaga and it goes to the outside of the ring. I think fearlessness is getting his second wind. Then Snitsky runs in and kicks the crap out of Jeff. What's that all about? Someone needs to come out and help Jeff, where is Triple H? Now both Umaga and Snitsky are beating on Jeff. This is not fair, someone needs to help him and my wish is answered. Triple H storms out still in street clothes and clears the ring rather quickly. He's not going to let his partner from last night get man handled. (Lord he's sexy!) Hardy picks up the win due to disqualification of Umaga because of Snitsky. I see where this stare down is going next week. Could Jeff be the new replacement for Shawn Michaels in the DX game plan? No one can replace Shawn Michaels, but I wouldn't mind if he was a new addition to DX!

Todd Grisham asks Triple H why he chose to help Jeff Hardy. He says it's because he is here to show those guys who think they are bad asses, who the real bad ass of the WWE is.

Hardcore Holly makes his way to the ring taking on Cody Rhodes tonight. I thought these two had gotten past this? I guess Cody still has something to prove to the hardcore legend Bob Holly. Is Holly using this match as a way to say that he's not happy with Rhodes for losing the match at survivor series last night? Who knows? Are these matches a learning experience? What is the inspiration behind these two men facing off? Rhodes picks up a win with a DDT and Randy Orton comes out yet again and hits Rhodes with an RKO. Hardcore Holly tries to get to his feet and gets RKO'd as well. I think our champ is a bit full of himself tonight. This is ridiculous! What is the deal with the marathon runner carrying the Olympic torch? It's symbolism that's lost on me, I think it's silly. Orton is trying to be slick and he's just looking more and more like a jerk.

Mr. McMahon comes face to face with Finlay backstage. They talk about what happened last night. They argue semantics on who is more Irish. It's funny. Just more comedic relief between matches.

Melina and Jillian Hall are in action tonight against Mickie James and Maria. Jillian decides to belittle Lillian Garcia yet again, telling her how awful her singing is. I wish someone who duct tape Jillian's mouth shut, she should never be allowed to sing, lord that's awful! The match begins without a hitch and the hair pulling begins. Mickie James lands the kiss of death on Jillian Hall and wins the match with a kick to the face. I have to admit that I wouldn't mind being kissed by that beauty!

Hornswaggle vs Carlito in the next match up on Raw. This is a no disqualification match. Carlito is still laughing. Carlito is picking on Hornswaggle, but Hornswaggle retaliates. It becomes a game of cat and mouse as Hornswaggle runs around all over the place. Hornswaggle throws a bucket of water on Carlito who answers that blatant attack by tossing Hornswaggle into the ring like a doll. He then takes some really big bites of apple. Finlay comes out to the aide of Hornswaggle and gets apple in his face. Due to Finlay landing a huge clothes line on Carlito, Hornswaggle picks up the win over Carlito tonight!

The passing of the torch ceremony is set to begin as the torch runner makes his way to the arena. This is going to be good. Randy Orton once again makes his way to the ring tonight to celebrate his greatness. Then an interruption in the Orton ceremony. It's none other than Y2J Chris Jericho. He's back and he looks better than ever! Randy Orton is speechless and not very happy at this point. Y2J has a microphone and he let's his voice be heard after all this time! The sexy beast is back and it's long over due! Orton thinks he's going to intimidate Jericho with his commentary. However Jericho takes it up a notch and tells Orton what he truly thinks of him. Raw will never, EVER, be the same again! Welcome back Chris Jericho we missed you!

Surviving the Night!

I will make a quick disclaimer before my commentary. I actually took to time to watch this pay per view, therefore there may not be the detailed notes that everyone is used to. I tried to capture the highlights of every match to the best of my ability. I was too excited to actually be tuned in to write a lot.

Survivor Series kicks off with the ECW Championship match. This triple threat match will see CM Punk defending his title against both John Morrison and the Miz who are the ECW tag champs. There is plenty of double team action in this match up from Morrison and Miz against the champ. Odds are not in Punk's favor at this point. The the inevitable happens. The Miz clobbers John Morrison and knocks him out of the ring. The fighting between the tag champs begins. CM Punk takes the opportunity to capitalize on this breakdown of the tag champs and he retains his championship yet again!

The divas light up the night next in a 10 diva tag match. It's the team of Beth Phoenix, Layla, Jillian Hall, Victoria and Melina vs. Torrie Wilson, Michelle McCool, Kelly Kelly, Maria and Mickie James. This match is a great exchange from the women and it's a very nice visual. Mickie James picks up a win for her team by planting the kiss of death on Melina followed by a nice kick to the head for the win.

Tag champs Lance Cade and Trevor Murdock see action next against Hardcore Holly and Cody Rhodes. The match is strong and intense. I'm not sure what you call the move that Murdock pulled off in order to secure that the tag champs kept their titles. I have to admit it was very impressive.

The match that has made Survivor Series famous bursts into action. The Elimination match will find two teams head to head. The first team is Mr. Kennedy, Umaga, Finlay, Big Daddy V (accompanied by Matt Striker) and MVP. The second team is Triple H, Kane, Rey Mysterio, Jeff Hardy and Matt Hardy. However Matt Hardy wasn't with his team due to being taken out of action on Friday Night Smackdown by his own tag team partner MVP. Triple H's team is missing one man, and not seeming like they are at 100% mentally either. To simplify this match I'll just let you know how it went: Kane is eliminated by Big Daddy V, Rey Mysterio is eliminated by Umaga. At that point it's Jeff Hardy and Triple H against all five of the other men. Things are not looking good. MVP gets eliminated by Jeff Hardy (payback for MVP hurting his brother!), Mr. Kennedy is eliminated by Triple H, Big Daddy V is eliminated by a team effort between Triple H and Jeff Hardy, Finlay is eliminated by Triple H. Umaga is the only man left representing his team. He is unable to hold up and Triple H and Jeff Hardy win it for their team.

Survivor Series just wouldn't be complete without Mr. McMahon having a heart to heart with his son Hornswaggle prior to Hornswaggle's match with the Punjabi giant the Great Khali. Mr. McMahon says that he made this match because Hornswaggle is a McMahon and McMahon's always stick together.

Then surprisingly enough Shane McMahon comes ringside to introduce not only Mr. McMahon to the ring, but Hornswaggle as well. Khali comes out to the ring and is looking absolutely intimidating. Khali takes one good swipe at Hornswaggle and knocks him down flat. Suddenly Finlay runs out to the ring and saves Hornswaggle from a fate worse than death. He beats off Khali to get the match called due to interference and defends his little leprechaun.

Randy Orton and Shawn Michaels come out to face off in the battle for the championship. The stipulations on this match are Shawn is not allowed to use his Sweet Chin Music and Randy Orton is not allowed to get himself disqualified intentionally. If Shawn executes his devastating kick, he will never again be given a shot at the title as long as Randy Orton holds it. If Orton gets himself DQ'd on purpose he must relinquish the title to Michaels. Can the heartbreak kid capitalize and win this match? Michaels gets a death hold on Orton making Orton's head turn purple (literally!). It's brutal. Michael's uses some fierce holds and submission moves tonight against the champ. This has got to be one of the best match ups I've seen in a long time. They are actually wrestling. Orton at one point has to make his way to the outside just to break Shawn's hold. Orton finally is able to get to his feet and wrestle Michaels for a bit. Michaels gets Orton in a sharpshooter but Orton is able to get to the ropes. Orton then begins applying some holds of his own on the Showstopper. Shawn has Orton set up for Sweet Chin Music, then he hesitates remembering the stipulations. That hesitation is all Orton needs to swoop in and get the win to retain his title. Orton is not satisfied with simply winning however. He gets back in the ring standing Michaels up against the ring pole so he can demean Michaels and gloat on his win. This is not the smartest thing in the world for the champ to do because it results in him getting a nice healthy dose of Sweet Chin Music via the Heartbreak Kid. That's one way to punctuate your point! This grudge is far from over!

The pay-per-view ends with the biggest, most devastating match up of the night. Batista and Undertaker fighting for the World Heavyweight Championship Title in Hell in a cell. As the two men take their places in the ring and Undertaker slams the door, I have to feel sorry for the ref that gets locked in that cage with these two. The match begins and it is not for the weak at heart. A spear saves Batista from a steel chair wielding Undertaker at one point. Undertaker is pulling off some awesome vintage moves that you don't get to see him use that often anymore. Blood is pouring down Batista's face as Undertaker brutalizes the animal. Batista doesn't take this lightly and he bloodies Undertaker after hitting him in the head four (yes 4!) times with the steel ring steps. Weapons are legal and anything goes in these hell in a cell matches. Batista raises the stakes and brings a table into the ring. Undertaker is put through the table yet still manages to kick out of a three count at just the last second. Batista kicks out of a tombstone pile driver. (He what??? I've never seen anyone do that!) Undertaker sets him up for another tombstone and this match is going to be over. Out of nowhere Edge jumps in the ring and begins beating on Undertaker. A concerto on the steel steps take out the Undertaker. Edge manages to roll Batista over the Undertaker and due to the help of Edge, Batista wins this match up. Damn Edge for having to stick his nappy self in a match where he doesn't belong. I hope that Undertaker kicks a mud hole in him on Friday Night Smackdown and walks it dry! He should know better than to mess with the dead man!

This pay per view rocked and I'm glad that I was able to get it. I'm looking forward to Monday Night Raw that for certain. So tune in next post for the results of a promising Monday night and the reveal of who this mystery code person is (Chris Jericho?)

Preparing for the "Big" match

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For those of you who did not get to see Monday Night Raw, I have posted a link here on the training that Hornswaggle received at the hands of William Regal and Jonathan Coachman in regards to his match at Survivor Series with the Great Khali. This clip made me laugh so hard when it aired Monday night that I just had to post about it. I have to say that a little bit of comedy goes a long way in my book, and it's good that some of the wrestlers are still in good spirits despite the very serious pay-per-view that is coming up Sunday. I wish Hornswaggle all the luck in the world, cause he's going to need it!

Update on Candace Michelle

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Recently Candace Michelle gave an interview to WWE.com regarding her injury and feelings about the Glamazon Beth Phoenix. A very emotional Candace said she was angry that Beth would do what she did in order to eliminate competition. No word has been given as to how long Candace must remain out for her broken clavicle. She does promise that when she gets back that we'll see just how this injury has changed her and affected her outlook on her career. Words are not enough, you have to see it to believe it. My thoughts are with Candace as she recovers and I can't wait to see her back in the ring!

The Road Is Long

Monday Night Raw kicks off with the Smackdown World Heavyweight Champion Batista. He says he was invited by William Regal to come to Raw to take on some competition. Batista says that he is gearing up for the hell in the cell match at Survivor Series with the Undertaker. He promotes his match well. He sends a message to the Undertaker, who just happens to be there too.....He steps out and makes his way to the ring to face the champ. Are we going to see a pre Survivor Series match-up tonight? Well it looked that way until William Regal came out to add his two cents worth. Wow, Batista and Undertaker are going to be partners against Raw's tag team champs Lance Cade and Trevor Murdock. This is going to be a quick slaughtering. Undertaker and Lance Cade begin this match-up. I don't think these two red necks have seen anything the likes of the Dead Man. Batista tags himself in blindly and he begins working over Cade. Are the Dead man and the Animal going to be able to play well enough together to secure a win? Undertaker looks absolutely evil on the ring apron waiting for his turn in the ring. I love the facial expressions of this man, and to think that he's a father of a little girl! The Undertaker tags himself in blindly and he makes quick work of Cade. Undertaker and Batista easily win this match, sending a message to one another that neither of them plan on leaving that ring a loser.

Beth Phoenix makes a grand entrance and will face off against Maria. Maria is sure looking incredible this evening. Beth Phoenix shows no mercy to the beauty as she starts this match up. Maria gets off some really nice moves for a moment before the Glamazon steals a win using sheer power. I have to give Maria credit, she tried and against a lesser competitor she might have one, but the Glamazon takes her matches very seriously.

Santino Marella comes out to talk about his "attack" by Stone Cold last week. He doesn't consider his girlfriend's loss in her match, he's only thinking of himself right now. He calls out Stone Cold for an apology. Since Stone Cold is not there, he goes over to the announcers table and demands that J.R. give him an apology. He berates J.R. and King stands up to Santino. Santino challenges King to a match and King makes his way into the ring. King knocks the crap out of Santino who runs like a scalded dog out of the ring. King proves that you don't mess with Good Ol' J.R. on Raw! Good job King!

Santino challenges Jerry Lawler to a real match tonight and King takes him up on it even though he doesn't have ring attire with him. Now that's dedication! I look forward to this match up, cause once and for all someone needs to shut Marella up!

Smackdown's Matt Hardy comes out for a match tonight on Raw. His tag team partner's tonight will be Rey Mysterio and Jeff Hardy. They will face off in a 6 man inter promotional match against Finlay, Mr. Kennedy and MVP. This is going to be an explosive match for sure. Matt Hardy and Finlay square off first. Mr. Kennedy is tagged in and begins working over Matt. MVP gets tagged in quick enough to refuse to fight against Matt Hardy then tags Mr. Kennedy back in. Matt Hardy puts his back to Kennedy while distracted by Finlay and gets himself tossed out of the ring by Kennedy. Never put your back to the enemy, everyone knows that! Mr.Kennedy gets an advantage and is dominating Matt Hardy at this point. Kennedy makes a tag to Finlay and Matt Hardy tags in Rey Mysterio. I love to watch this man in the ring, he's so electrifying! Finlay tags in MVP to take on Mysterio. MVP uses his kicks to weaken the firecracker Mysterio. One can only wonder if Rey is at 100% after his match last week with Finlay. Rey refuses to give up but it's looking bleak for the Luchador. Mr. Kennedy gets in the ring with Mysterio and is doing what he can to injure Mysterio's back. These men are just not letting Mysterio get a leg up in this match tonight. Mysterio counters a move by MVP. Mysterio makes a much needed tag to Jeff Hardy who has yet to be in the ring tonight and he's taking it to MVP. Mr. Kennedy tries to interfere and all hell breaks loose. A huge 619 to MVP and Mr. Kennedy by Mysterio, a Swanton bomb from Jeff Hardy on MVP and the match is won by the Hardy's and Mysterio! This is what wrestling is all about!

Mr. McMahon is in the ring getting ready to over see the face off between Shawn Michaels and Randy Orton. There is a red carpet and a podium in the ring, however I don't think either of these men is thinking about giving a speech right at this moment. Randy Orton comes to the ring looking like the cat who swallowed the canary. The stipulations for the match on Sunday at Survivor Series is that Shawn Michaels is not allowed to use his famous Sweet Chin Music at all during that match or he looses the match and will never again be allowed to face Randy Orton for the WWE championship. The other stipulation is that if Randy Orton gets himself disqualified or throws the match in any way, he forfeits his title to Shawn Michaels. These two are throwing insults at each other fast and furiously. Does Shawn Michaels depend on his super kick too much, is that all that Michaels can bring to the table? Is that the only move that he's got under his belt? Michaels is absolutely teasing Orton at this point and making fun of the Champ about his stipulation placed on the match at Survivor Series. Michaels claims that all he needs to compete on Sunday is the memory of Orton trying to end his livelihood six months ago. Orton gets rude and the fight is on. Orton beats and batters HBK while Mr. McMahon just stands there and does nothing. However, Mr. McMahon does stop Randy from kicking Shawn's head off once again, but he cannot stop the RKO. Michaels is left lifeless in the ring tonight, but I don't think that will be the case on Sunday.

Melina makes a sexy entrance tonight with Layla and Jillian Hall in a 6 woman tag team match tonight against Mickie James, Michelle McCool and Kelly Kelly. Melina and Michelle start the match off. Michelle tags in Kelly and she faces off against Melina. Melina tags in Jillian and the match continues. Kelly tags in Mickie and she brings the fight to Jillian. Soon all the women are in the ring and the poor ref has to figure out who is legal. Mickie James and Layla are and Mickie gets a quick three count over Layla and picks up a win for her team. It's a nice view that's for sure.

Jerry the King Lawler faces off against Santino Marella. This is what we call a filler match folks. I love King and I hope that he beats the crap out of Marella. I am really wishing someone would super kick him and put him out of commission at some point. King repeatedly knocks Marella down by kicking his thigh. It's a good match up and each man is getting his blows in. King gets an inside cradle and wins the match because Marella was distracted talking to J.R. It's his own fault for underestimating the original King of the Ring!

The comic relief comes from a clip from the training of Hornswaggle for his match against the Great Khali at Survivor Series. Hornswaggle comes out from under the ring and William Regal is over seeing this match. Jonathan Coachman comes out dressed up like Khali and it's supposed to be all in good fun but Coach is not liking being the training dummy. This is cracking me up as Hornswaggle kicks, bites and gets a three count over the dummy "Khali". I have a feeling that the match this Sunday is not going to be fun and games. The disadvantage this Sunday will be that Khali knows how to fight, and Coach thinks he does. Best of luck to Hornswaggle!

Todd Grisham talks with Triple H about his match tonight against Umaga and his match Sunday at Survivor Series this Sunday. Triple H sends a very strong and threatening message to the Samoan Bulldozer. The King of Kings is confident about his ability to win, and frankly so am I (but I'm biased cause Triple H is my favorite wrestler)!

Triple H comes out for his lumberjack match against Umaga. Both men are accompanied to the ring by their lumberjacks and I'm not sure what will be more interesting to watch, the two men in the ring or the lumberjacks on the outside. If either man is knocked to the outside, it's the job of the lumberjacks to put that person back in the ring to continue the match. Triple H is first out of the ring and he knocks the crap out of Matt Striker who tries to put him back in the ring. Umaga is next out of the ring and the lumberjacks are a little hesitant to touch the Samoan Bulldozer. Triple H is tossed out again, and his lumberjacks protect him against the lumberjacks on Umaga's side who would love to dismantle the Game. Umaga and Triple H are beating each other to tiredness at this point, but the match goes on. Triple H appears to have left his Game elsewhere tonight as he is absolutely manhandled by Umaga tonight. This is definitely not making me happy. I hate to see Triple H at a disadvantage. The lumberjacks in Triple H's corner try to rally behind him to get him on his feet but he doesn't remain upright for long. I'm hoping that Triple H does better on Sunday than he's doing tonight. Triple H gets a second wind and gets in some really good hits and a nice DDT on Umaga. The King of Kings fights back and tries to get a Pedigree and gets a Samoan Drop instead. Triple H goes for the win and is interrupted by Finlay. The match is called for interference and all the men rush the ring and start fighting each other. That's how Raw ends tonight folks, they went over time allotted and were rudely cut off by the Steve-O show. I'm pretty sure that we'll get to see more in your face action leading up to Survivor Series tomorrow night on ECW and Friday night on Smackdown.

Out of context!

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Recently former WWE champion John Cena was interviewed by CNN for a documentary they were doing called "Death Grip.....Inside Pro Wrestling." One of the topics covered in this interview was the use of steroids by the superstars. This is a very touchy subject with the WWE ever since the tragic murder suicide of Chris Benoit and his family earlier this year. There are two versions of the interview on the link provided. The first version is the unedited version of his interview in which he was asked, "Do you do steroids?" Cena's answer to that was simple, "Absolutely not!" The second version of that interview that aired on the documentary had Cena saying, "I can't tell you I've never done steroids, and you can't prove that I have."

I find this a terrible statement taken completely out of context by the editing staff of CNN. You have to watch both versions of the interview to get the full context of what John Cena was trying to say. I know that sports entertainment especially wrestling has been under the microscope in recent years because more and more athletes are dying due to complications from steroid use or doing something that is completely out of character, as in the case of Chris Benoit. I don't think it's fair to label these athletes are abusers or addicts because while some may make the choice to enhance their bodies in a non natural way, not every single person in the locker room is doing it. I feel that those who are should be punished for going against sports contracts, but for those who are clean why should they be punished and labeled for other's mistakes?

This is reality, there are going to be some superstars who cannot resist the ease of taking enhancements to remain on top of their game and that's a sad reality. I'm sure that the industry as far as wrestling goes is doing it's best to get help for these folks and to make sure that their health is taken into consideration first and foremost. I just feel it was wrong for CNN to shed such a negative light on what John Cena said, because that is not the context in which he made the statement.