Happy Birthday: Jeff Hardy and Mickie James

Mickie James: Age 30

Jeff Hardy: Age 32

Jeff Hardy DVD Coming Soon!

There's talk of a Jeff Hardy DVD set coming out as mentioned by J.R. on his personal blog.

- Many WWE Superstars and I did interviews Tuesday afternoon for an upcoming Jeff Hardy DVD that will be released in a few weeks. I don't know how many talents were involved but there were several. John Cena was included as he and I visited about this project Tuesday evening in Phoenix.

Hopefully it will be jam packed with a lot of his best matches.

I personally love:

Jeff Hardy vs. WWE Champion Randy Orton (Royal Rumble 2008)

Jeff Hardy vs. Shawn Michaels (RAW 2008)

Jeff Hardy vs. Triple H (No Mercy 2008)

Jeff Hardy vs. The Undertaker in Extreme Rules Match (Smackdown 2008)

Jeff Hardy vs. Triple H vs. WWE Champion Edge (Armageddon 2008)

Elimination Chamber for WWE Championship (No Way Out 2009)

Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy in Extreme Rules Match (Wrestlemania 25)

Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy in Stretcher Match (Smackdown 2009)

Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy in "I Quit Match" (Backlash 2009)

Jeff Hardy vs. Edge in World Heavyweight Ladder Match (Extreme Rules 2009)

Jeff Hardy vs. Chris Jericho (Smackdown 2009)

World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk vs. Jeff Hardy (Night of Champions 2009)

World Heavyweight Champion Jeff Hardy vs. John Morrison (Smackdown 2009)

The Hardyz and John Morrison vs. The Hart Dynasty and CM Punk (Smackdown 2009)

World Heavyweight Champion Jeff Hardy vs. CM Punk in TLC (SummerSlam 2009)

World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk vs. Jeff Hardy in Steel Cage Loser Leaves WWE Match (Smackdown 2009)

BUT THAT's JUST ME! What do you think it should be?

Jeff Hardy: Exodus of an Extreme Era

Phoenix Arizona were left heartbroken as the Jeff Hardy took a risk that ended his career.

After losing the World Heavyweight Title from CM Punk, Jeff Hardy issued his rematch clause in a Steel Cage Match for the following Smackdown. However, the newly crowned Champion proposed that who ever lost the match - would have to leave the WWE. Jeff Hardy, always living for the moment, accepted Punk's challenge and their Fates were set in stone by Smackdown GM Teddy Long.

Prior to the match, Jeff, applying his face paint, was visited by his brother Matt. Matthew Moore Hardy knows the huge risk that Jeff was taking accepting this match, but that's the way Jeff does things - That is why Matt said, "I respect you."

Matt has always been the older brother looking out for Jeff, but after coming back to see his brother as the World Heavyweight Champion and how the crowd cheers for him... his jealous rage subsided and understands that his brother is a man and can make his own decisions about his own life.

The Hardys joined the WWE when they were just kids. Jeff was actually only 16 but he lied about his age in order to try out. It was actually Matt who's life long dream it was to become a wrestler, while Jeff went along for the ride.

Since then, the two accomplished their dreams of becoming WWE World Tag Team Champions - and they have done that 7-times over. But their dreams kept growing, while other passions arose.

Jeff Hardy, in his first run with the WWE, kept missing house shows and failing drug tests. He was burned out, both physically and mentally. And no doubt, he had other passions other than wrestling.

On the Hardy Show, Jeff even mentions that he loves WWE, but it's more of a job than anything else. But during his three-year hiatus from the WWE, wrestling on the independent circuit and TNA, Jeff Hardy was drawn back and determined for a second run with the WWE.

Jeff Hardy, after his first run, was a multiple Tag Team, an Intercontinental, a European, and a Hardcore Champion - but he never won the Big one. People thought that Jeff would be one of those wrestlers with all the potential but never grasping the brass ring.

Jeff Hardy did have one WWE Title match against The Undertaker for the Undisputed WWE World Title in a ladder match. It was the match J.R. screamed at the top of the lungs, CLIMB THE LADDER KID, MAKE YOURSELF FAMOUS!

His second run around seemed at times to sore high, and at other times it fell low. Jeff was suspended twice for drug use and lost his home and his dog, Jack, to a fire. It didn't seem at all possible that Jeff Hardy would ever become the WWE Champion.

Until Armageddon 2008, Jeff Hardy entered the pay-per-view having stated on RAW that it doesn't matter if he walked, crawled, or carried out that he would become the WWE Champion. And wouldn't you know it, he actually pulled it off!

Until the following ppv, at the Royal Rumble, when Matt Hardy screwed Jeff over - thus, allowing Edge to become Champion.

But Jeff would get retribution at Backlash in an "I Quit" Match, where he forced Matt to utter the words I Quit, and I'm Sorry.

Then Jeff entered a program with Edge for the World Heavyweight Championship and finally became 2-time World Champion at Extreme Rules in a ladder match. Yet, he would lose it 5 minutes later when CM Punk cashed in to become the World Heavyweight Champion.

This started the feud with CM Punk and Punk's eventual heel change.

Tonight's Smackdown was one that truly embodied Living for the Moment as these two entered the Steel Cage and fought each other for the last time.

At one point, Jeff dangled outside the Steel Cage, and J.R. shouted, DROP DOWN AND DEAL WITH IT LATER!

But Punk locked in a head lock and applied a superplex from the top turnbuckle. Jeff Hardy lay motionless, and was not quick enough to stop CM Punk from escaping the cage.

As the bell rung and Jeff remained in the ring, you can sense that he wanted to cry.

We all know that Jeff Hardy and the WWE were discussing contracts and trying to get him to resign - but Jeff wouldn't have it. I, myself, go on about leaving either my job or a club, but in reality even when you talk about it, you realize its a major part of who you are and the person you have become. So even though Jeff wanted to leave the WWE, it's still who he is and he loves the WWE.

Matt Hardy wrote on his WWE Universe Blog, "he needs time away to heal physically and mentally." Partially, the reason Jeff left were nagging neck and back pains - but also because in his heart, there is still so much to do - like paint, build, sing, and so much more. His creativity is the Imag-I-Nation and its for everyone to explore their talents and dreams. To be anything you want to be.

Prior to SummerSlam, CM Punk asked hims, "Do you think you can fly?" And Jeff responded, "I don't think I can fly, My Spirit Knows I CAN!!!"

Jeff Hardy said to the fans in his farewell speech:

First of all, I'm sorry if I let anybody down. I'm sorry that now you'll be seeing CM Punk instead of me.. on Smackdown. But it's been One Hell of a Ride, hasn't!? I want to thank all of you and let you know... this is not goodbye forever... this is only goodbye for now. And if the time is right... I'm sure I'll see you in the future. Thank You All! Hey, at least Matt is back on my side, there's still another Hardy on this show! Yours Truly, Jeff Hardy, ours truly, this life! [Hardy's gun gesture]

This time, Jeff Hardy left on good terms with the WWE - who were impressed how far up the ranks he got CM Punk over as a top-rated Heel.

Thank you Jeff Hardy for the memories, WWE will not be the same without you. You were the sole reason why I watched WWE and always loved to mimic your hand gestures and non-fear to heights. I believed in you, believed you would become the WWE Champion when everyone else gave up. I believed that you would have a real World Heavyweight Title reign, when everyone else thought impossible.

This was a great ending - I hope you heal up and can't wait to watch you on The Hardy Show. You may be gone from the WWE, but not from my life.

This Week's ECW: 8/25/09, WWE Superstars 8/27/09, & Smackdown: 8/28/09

Rey Mysterio Suspended for 30 Days

In accordance with WWE's Wellness Program, effective Wednesday, September 2, Oscar Gutierrez (Rey Mysterio) is suspended for 30 days for a violation of the company's policy.

Currently, Rey Mysterio is the Intercontinental Champion. And seeing as how the suspension doesn't take effect until the day after the next taping of Smackdown, WWE may in fact give Dolph Ziggler the IC title being as he became the #1 Contender last night on WWE Superstars. A match that would have most likely taken place at the next pay-per-view will have to come a little earlier.

The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien: WWE Invasion

Yesterday on WWE.com, news hit that four WWE superstars would appear on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien.

As part of Conan O'Brien trying to reach out to the hispanic community, he does skits called Noches de Pasion con Senior O'Brien - which he jokes will make him into a hugh Spanish Telenovela Star.

The skit is set up at a club run by a drug lord. When Cornando (Conan O'Brien) comes to save the day - he is ambused by Legacy's Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase. But Cornando has some back up of his own, The Great Khali and The Big Show.

The 4 appearing on NBC's Tonight Show was in order to shamelessly plug the special 1-hour presentation of the 25th Aniversary of Wrestlemania on NBC.

As a fan of Conan O'Brien, and better yet, of Noches de Pasion - this was just all too priceless.

The above video is from The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien, and just in case if this article is read months later when Hulu has taken it off, Well... you had your chance.

William Regal's Second Chance; Shelton Benjamin turns Face?

The ECW Title match at SummerSlam was tragically cut short in a record-breaking 8 seconds, because WWE were running out of time and needed to free up for the final two World Title Matches. It was a disgrace to have a squash match for the brand's title, but that's how the WWE handles things. In all honesty, WWE could have done without the Khali-Kane match and have put on a decent ECW match.

At the start of the program, William Regal entered the ring with Vladimir Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson. He went on about how the WWE Universe could not fathom the idea of Kozlov and Jackson joining forces seeing as they have been one-uping each other for months. Well... if you would kindly take a look at this previous article (WWE Should Develop II) I mention how the dynamic that Kozlov and Jackson share is an inevitable formation. What I will admit to, is that I did not know it would be William Regal that would lead them. It's not like William Regal is stronger. If Kozlov and Jackson wanted to, they could obliterate Regal from existence.

Christian entered the ring, still the ECW Champion, and started belittling Regal by calling him Bill. Is this really the best that Christian can do? He even got inside Regal's head by repeating 8-seconds! - The time it took to beat William Regal to retain his ECW Title. In all reality, Christian struck Regal before taking off his robe, so he cheated for the split second win.

Before Christian could say good-bye to Regal as a challenger, the vivacious ECW GM Tiffany declared that Christian did take the easy way out, but if Regal wants another title shot he would have to earn it by defeating Christian in a non-title match.

The ECW main event after a pay-per-view is usually better than the previous one - Don't believe me? Then compare Christian vs. Tommy Dreamer at Night of Champions against Christian vs. Tommy Dreamer (Extreme Rules Match) the following ECW. You know I'm right.

The referee had his hands full trying to keep Kozlov and Jackson from interfering while calling the match. The two did manage to protect Regal from any outside high flying maneuver on the part of Christian. But it was not until Christian took a cheap shot and slapped Kozlov - who was doing nothing - that things turned ugly.

The referee's back was turned, occupied with Jackson, when Christian went for the Killswitch. Yet, Regal managed to shove Christian to the ropes where he met a nasty headbutt on the part of The Moscow Mauler. Thus, allowing Regal to go for the Knee Trembler and ending the match as the #1 Contender for the ECW Championship.

Side Note: The Knee Trembler seems like a diluted version to Orton's punt to the head.

In other ECW news, Shelton Benjamin is once again in ECW finally going through a face turn. Apparently, WWE thinks they can accomplish the turn with Shelton singing. In a vignette, Shelton Benjamin is seen imitating Louis Armstrong, requested by the Bella Twins. He was actually dead on in the impression. But is Benjamin's new gimmick going to be a Karaoke Superstar?

The segment was interrupted by Zack Ryder, who the Bellas cannot stand, and got in Benjamin's face. Shelton, a few weeks back, embarrassed Ryder by beating him in a match; however, this week, Tiffany teamed Benjamin with Ryder against the team of Yoshi Tatsu and Tyler Reks.

Benjamin started the match going toe-to-toe with Surfer Tyler Reks. Reks is really not impressive, his gimmick is bland and his most impressive maneuver is a missile drop kick.

As Benjamin tried to tag in his tag team partner, Ryder was busy adjusting his knee pad. Reks tried to get the roll-up but Shelton powered out.

Ryder tried to capitalize on the opportunity when Reks was down, with a blind tag. But Reks able to kick out of quick covers, Ryder tagged Benjamin back in.

It wasn't until Yoshi Tatsu tagged in, that Ryder also wanted in. If you recall, Ryder pinned Tatsu in one-on-one action, hoping to have the same result he rushed into the ring. But his biggest mistake was sending Tatsu into Benjamin before he could get out. This distraction allowed Tatsu to pick his spot and countered the Zack Attack and struck with the Roundhouse Kick to pick up the win.

Benjamin, still upset at what Ryder did, entered the ring over a defeated Zack Ryder and executed Paydirt.

Is Shelton Benjamin really turning Face, or is the feud with Zack Ryder just a collision of egos?

More ECW News: Tonight on WWE Superstars - The Hurricane goes up against Paul Burchill. Will the masked crusader foil Burchill again, or will Burchill do away with the green vigilante?

Jeff Hardy's Good-Bye 8-25-09

The Smackdown Taping on August 25th 2009 was Jeff Hardy's final WWE program. For months it's been on everyone's mind, when was Jeff Hardy going to leave? He's been working on short month-by-month contracts and stayed to push CM Punk over.

At SummerSlam, Jeff Hardy dropped the title to CM Punk after a hellacious TLC and this upcoming Friday - Jeff Hardy will enforce his rematch clause and battle CM Punk in a steel cage match for the World Heavyweight Championship - in a Loser Leaves WWE match.

The next 2 paragraphs are from PWInsider

Backstage, WWE management told Hardy he had an open door to come back whenever he wanted and that if they could help promote his outside projects, they’d be happy to. Hardy said he wasn’t leaving because he was unhappy, but because he wanted time off the road and wanted to do things at his own pace.

A lot of the WWE talents were comparing his exit to Chris Jericho’s a few years back. The feeling backstage is that it’s a matter of time before Hardy is back. There has been a lot of praise on Hardy over the past few months as it’s felt that his work helped bring CM Punk to a new level.

But as Jeff says in his Goodbye Speech - There is still another Hardy on this Show.

And also mentions that when the time's right, he'll be back.

Mickie James Chewed Out For Botched Match; The Miz and Evan Bourne Rise!

Turns out that WWE Management were none to happy with the botched Divas' Title Match last week's Monday Night RAW - but not for the same reasons Mickie James had.

Mickie James was chewed out by WWE for her unprofessionalism in the ring for not being able to sell the match - when she was unable to connect with the Mick DDT, the phantom Mick Kick, and the improvised forearm to end the match.

Mickie James had a sour look throughout the end of the match - basically breaking kayfabe in the ring with how the match ended.

Gail Kim was treated after the match and everything was okay - she just became dazed from the impact of her top rope cross-body.

I'm speculating that Mickie James is being punished for her unprofessionalism by jobbing her last Monday Night on RAW.

Mickie, along with Gail Kim and Kelly Kelly, participated in a 6-Divas Tag Team Match against Beth Phoenix, Rosa Mendes, and Alicia Fox.

The women were clad in boxing attire in respect to the night's guest host - Floyd "Money" Mayweather.

All the women wore shorts, except for James who wore a mini-mini skirt. You can tell it made her uncomfortable since she kept readjusting it every 5-seconds. At one point she gave the WWE Universe a peep show of her underwear.

Mickie James is not one to approve of such attire because she wants to be proven for her wrestling ability not how sexy she can look in a bikini.

But the biggest upset was having Alicia Fox kick and pin Mickie James. Alicia Fox is a newbie, a lackey at best, and to have her pin the Divas Champion is a major upset.

It would have been believable if Beth Phoenix, a 2-time Women's Champion, pinned Mickie - but it was Alicia Fox, sporting the red/white/blue Apollo Creed trunks.

Much like when Triple H broke kayfabe in, what has been dubbed as, "The Kliq" incident - Mickie James was jobbed for her breaking kayfabe.

In other RAW news, The Miz battled Santino Marella in one-on-one action. Santino actually seemed to have a chance against The Miz by countering maneuvers and creating some offence.

However, it was The Miz that triumphed with The Skull Crushing Finale.

Initially, the dark match for SummerSlam was going to be The Miz vs. Kofi Kingston - but WWE went ahead with the 15-Diva Battle Royal instead. Good thing too, seeing as this is the first time that WWE has actually set up some sort of credibility for the United States title. It would be a shame if they destroyed it by setting up an impromptu match for a title with no build-up.

The Miz got on the mic again and stated that he will take Kofi Kingston's United States Title - because "I'M THE MIZ! AND I'M AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!"

Chavo Guerrero and Hornswoggle had another match up - you know, the match where Hornswoggle wins because it's set up that way.

Poor Chavo Guerrero - the name means Warrior - but he's a jobber to Hornswoggle.

Chavo once again lost the match, but instead of retreating in embarrassment - He took his frustration and started wailing on Hornswoggle.

And to the rescue was Evan "Air" Bourne, with a kick to the mid-section and the impressive Shooting Star Press!

Chavo Guerrero may have upgraded to a feud with Bourne - let's hope so, because WWE has no clue what to do with either of them.

McMahon Pins WWE Champion at 64!; Floyd "Money" Mayweather Did Nothing!

Last night’s RAW celebrated Mr. Vincent Kennedy McMahon’s 64th Birthday.

At the start of the program, it was confirmed that the crazed fan was indeed Ted DiBiase’s brother – Bret DiBiase who bought a ticket to the show in order to see his brother fight DX.

Legacy stated that they did not ask for Bret’s help – and that regardless of the interference, Randy Orton would have still won the match.

McMahon announced that the referee’s call last night is final and that Randy Orton is still the WWE Champion.

But in 3 weeks, were all the main events have submission themes, Randy Orton will have to defend the WWE title against John Cena in an “I Quit” match. And if anyone interferes on behalf of Randy Orton – the title will automatically be awarded to John Cena.

Before McMahon had a chance to leave the ring, DX entered the ring and were uneasy with “nice guy” McMahon. It was then that they figured out that it was McMahon’s birthday – and to celebrate Vegas Style (while still upholding the PG content) brought in Show Girls, 2 guys from Cirque du Soleil, Elvis, and a giant birthday cake – with a big fat surprise (Big Dick Johnson).

Yet, before DX could give McMahon their final gift – Legacy spoiled the festivities.

Triple H, seeing as Floyd “Money” Mayweather still had not arrived, created a main event for tonight – the 3 members of Legacy vs. D-Generation X and Mr. McMahon.

The Divas once again had a tag team match in honor of the guest host – A Mayweather Mele – with all the divas dressed in boxing attire. However, it would still be contested as a wrestling match.

Mayweather finally made his appearance after the Unified Tag Team Champions called him out.

Side Note: The new JeriShow entrance theme is awesome – The Chris Jericho portion of the theme has more of a hard rock sound. Closer to the Chris Jericho theme release on WWE The Music Vol. 8. Good thing it was changed.

Floyd still feels pretty big about beating The Big Show last year at Wrestlemania XXIV. But, as Jericho stated, it’s easy to beat someone when you have 16 people jumping in.

Chris Jericho, standing tall over Mayweather, proclaimed that Floyd is not the greatest fighter and that he foresees Juan Manuel Marquez wiping the floor with him on Sept. 19th.

The WWE probably stalled for Mayweather’s entrance because of the police investigation involving a shoot-out outside a Skating rink in Las Vegas.

Mayweather did not book any matches whatsoever, and his in-ring personality… wait, he HAS NO personality.

MVP had to bail out Mayweather by booking his own match and passing it off as Mayweather’s idea.

MVP’s stipulation was that if he could find a partner and defeat JeriShow in a non-title match – then they would get a title shot at the Breaking Point PPV.

MVP’s partner turned out to be none other than “The World’s Strongest Man” Mark Henry.

Since their last encounter as Night of Champions 2008, where Henry became the ECW Champion in a Triple Threat Match against Big Show and Kane – I’ve wanted to see these two giants clash – The World’s Strongest Man vs. The World’s Largest Athlete.

Yet, MVP was pretty much in the whole match. Mark Henry was tagged in for 2 moves and then MVP tagged back in. And Cole announced that Henry tags in a fresh MVP. Fresh? MVP had two seconds to rest from an 8 minute match!

I hope it’s that WWE is conserving Henry’s strength for Breaking Point – where he can administer some real pain.

Remember when Chris Jericho wanted Henry as his partner – “We can cause unbelievable pain, but I didn’t come out here to be your partner – I came out here to be your opponent!”

Mayweather sitting at ring side was completely boring as he had nothing to shout out. He did pass MVP a pair of brass knuckles to strike Jericho while the ref wasn’t looking – Thus, granting MVP and Mark Henry a title shot at Breaking Point.

I do like the pairing of these two – finally! A real challenged for Big Show and Chris Jericho. Cryme Tyme may be funny in their antics, but JeriShow needs a REAL challenge.

Mayweather’s final segment was helping McMahon train for his tag team match with DX.

Thank you Mayweather for absolutely nothing! I hated his match against Big Show at Wrestlemania XXIV and he proved completely useless tonight of RAW. In my book he may be 39-0 in the boxing world, but in the wrestling world he’s 0-2.

Now… as for the DX-McMahon vs. Legacy match. It was good – definitely a flight of Stairs down from their encounter with Legacy at SummerSlam.

But of course you cannot go all out with another PPV caliber match on cable TV.

That’s why WWE Universe pays the big bucks to see quality matches – sometimes.

Orton tried escaping the match, but (wondering when he was going to show up) John Cena threw Orton back into the ring.

Randy was destroyed as he was super-kicked by Michaels and Attitude Adjusted by Cena.

This allowed McMahon to get the cover on the WWE Champion Randy Orton – Happy Birthday Mr. McMahon from the WWE Universe – the reason why we can watch WWE.

CM Punk Trumphs Hardy in TLC; The Undertaker Returns and Finds New Opponent

The final match was for the World Heavyweight Championship in a Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match!

CM Punk, winner of two consecutive MitB matches has always won his World Heavyweight titles through seizing opportunities – but tonight was a chance to prove that he could win it fare and square.

Jeff Hardy entered the arena with Black and White Face Paint – a sign that Hardy signed up for this war and was ready to tap into his dark enigmatic nature and bring hell to Punk.

CM Punk has been beating up Jeff Hardy for weeks, and continued to do so even in this match as he destroyed Jeff with a superplex off the top rope unto a ladder.

Jeff Hardy proving a master of these type of matches – flung Punk out of the ring and unto a table.

Jeff would continue his work by laying out Punk on the ECW announce table – smashing him with a steel chair, and then setting up a 20ft ladder in close proximity.

Now… Jeff Hardy hasn’t attempted this since Wrestlemania 17 where he crashed into Bubba Ray Dudley on a table.

Jeff Hardy stood atop of that 20ft Ladder and pretty much escalated his send off to his possibly departure from the WWE with one final stunt.

Jeff Hardy looked down at an unconscious Punk and dove off in a 20ft Swanton Bomb.

Hardy landed on Punk and both crashed through the ECW announce table.

Both men weren’t moving, but as the paramedics started to put Jeff in a neck brace – Punk made his way into the ring.

Jeff, some how, willed his way into the ring and the two shared blows at the top of the ladder, inches away from Championship Glory.

But it was Punk who was the better man and knocked Jeff off the ladder.

CM Punk is the new World Heavyweight Champion and as he stood over Jeff gloating – The lights began to flicker on and off.

Until the arena went into complete darkness…

When the lights came back on, Jeff Hardy had disappeared and in his place was The Undertaker!
Taker grabbed Punk’s neck and chokeslammed the hell out of him.

Seeing as Jeff is sent to leave the WWE – The Undertaker will start a feud with CM Punk.


This night marks the return of both Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker – the two have been gone since Wrestlemania 25 and have returned at SummerSlam.

The Viper Strikes and Retains thanks to WWE "Fan"

The second to last match of the night was for the WWE Championship.

The last time John Cena was the WWE Champion was in October of 2007, where he held it for an astounding 380 days.

He never lost the title, but he was relinquished of it, due to an injury suffered by Randy Orton. Orton was later awarded the Title at No Mercy 2007, where he would lose it to Triple H and then win it again in a Last Man Standing the same night.

Tonight was Cena’s chance to become the WWE Champion so that he could once again enter RAW and shout at the top of his lungs – “THE CHAMP IS HERE!!!!”

Well… the first match turned out to be a repeat of No Way Out 2008, were Orton shoved a referee and got himself disqualified.

However, by order of Vince McMahon the match was restarted. And if Orton intentionally disqualified himself again – the title would be given to Cena.

Well… Orton decided to grab his title and get himself counted out!

BUT! By order of Vince McMahon again… the match was restarted for a second time! If Orton gets counted out – the title would be given to Cena.

So Orton went for a quick roll-up and kept his feet on the ropes and won the match.

BUT!! Another referee came down and notified of Orton’s deliberately illegal win… so by order of Vince McMahon the match was started for a third time!

So as the two grappled in the ring… a crazed fan came out of nowhere and stopped the referee from his 3-count.

The match was paused until security came into the ring and removed the fan.

This distraction allowed Orton, in true viper style, to strike with the RKO and finally after 4-5 consecutive matches with John Cena – retained the WWE Championship.

The crazed “fan” was revealed on on-line sources to be Bret DiBiase – brother of Ted DiBiase and son of the Million Dollar Man. Bret is currently wrestling at FCW.

So for those wondering if the fan was worked? Well, it was. WWE security is one of the best trained in the world – the last time it happened was a match on RAW between John Cena and Jeff Hardy, but security got the fan before touching the ring apron.

DX Wins the War; Christian Retains ECW Title in 8-Seconds

Then we were asked the question… Are we Ready? Well… I don’t know if I’m ready. It seems all of a sudden doesn’t it? To ask such a question is insane, ludicrous!

Well…. I WAS READY!

DX had the most spectacular entrance – matching those of Wrestlemania. DX had tanks that entered the arena, with soldiers rushing out shooting fire works out of cannons… Then DX came in sporting the new D-Generation X t-shirts (Available at WWEShop.com) on a tank! Pretty much going with the theme on the shirts, plus this battle with Legacy would not be a regular match – it would be a WAR!

Along with the crisis mode happening on RAW, Shawn Michaels and Triple H did everything in their power to put over Legacy as the newest most dominating duo. Congrats DX, you did – it was a full out brawl and a night of finishers. As CrossRhodes and Dream Street were executed, Triple H saved the day with the Pedigree – but Rhodes and DiBiase would not lie down for the 3-count.

No… they needed to hear the sound of some Sweet Chin Music to end the match. This was Michaels first match since Wrestlemania 25, except this time it was Shawn Michaels who picked up the win.

The following was the ECW Championship Squash… I mean the Championship Match! Turns out because DX spent so much time with their entrance, WWE were short on time and needed to cut some corners… namely the ECW match that never gets any respect.

As Regal entered the arena with his two new enforcers (Jackson and Kozlov), he seemed primed for Championship glory. However, the bell rang before Regal could take off his robe, giving Christian enough time to execute the Killswitch to end the match in a record breaking 8 seconds. The initial record was 9 seconds at Wrestlemania 24, where Kane became the ECW Champion against Chavo Guerrero.

However, retaining the title in such a short time frame – enraged the Distinguished Gentleman to order Kozlov and Jackson to destroy Christian before applying the Regal Stretch.

Christian may have retained the title, but he lost the fight.

MVP Slams Swagger; Jeri-Show Stops Cryme Tyme; The Big Red Machine Triumphs

The next match was “The All American-American” Jack Swagger vs. “Montel Vontavious Porter” MVP.

Prior to the match, the two competitors were interviewed by ECW commentator, Josh Matthews. When asked how each would fare in the match-up, Swagger responded that he was better and at least does not have a criminal record; MVP retorted that after tonight, he would take him back to school.

MVP may have been the longest reigning United States Champion back on Smackdown, but Jack Swagger became the ECW Champion after four months with the WWE.

However, it was street smarts that gave MVP the win over Swagger as he executed with the Play Maker.

These two superstars are the future of RAW and seeing as WWE is in crisis mode because of the lack of depth in their RAW main event matches – look no further because Jack Swagger and MVP are ready to become the new faces of RAW.

Ever since winning the #1 contendership match against The Hart Dynasty – Cryme Tyme has been on a role. Especially since JTG pinned Chris Jericho in one-on-one match-up! However, their luck started to change when JTG tapped out to Big Show in their one-on-one – But let’s face it, the Big Show is a Colossal Giant that cannot be taken down by either JTG or Shad Gaspard.

Cryme Tyme were even on the side of the losing team in the six-man tag team match on the last Smackdown prior to SummerSlam.

This match marked their second tag team title match – the first being against Priceless for the World Tag Team Titles, and it ended the same way.

Cryme Tyme actually impressed a lot of people by being able to stand toe to toe with the JeriShow combination – but Jericho and Show are more experienced in a WWE ring than the Word-Up crew.

Some may call what they did cheating – I call it team work. With Big Show knocking out Gaspard and JTG submitting to The Walls of Jericho, it was all over.

Congrats on Jericho and Big Show on retaining their titles because together they are the best in the world at what they do.

Next was the battle of the giants – no, not the football team, but two real giants.

Kane entered the ring in the glow of the red lights, while Khali entered with his brother Runjin Singh.

The match up was actually quite dull, a repeat of the snooze-fest that was their match up in Wrestlemania 23.

Kane prevailed after catching Khali off guard when he held Singh hostage.

Singh proved to be a distraction and a liability that caused Khali to lose the match. Kane went for a low drop kick and a destructive DDT.

Hopefully this feud can just end, unless Khali intends on learning actual wrestling moves – please WWE spare us.

Beth Phoenix Dominates 15-Diva Battle Royal; Rey Mysterio leaves SummerSlam Hometown Hero

SummerSlam proved to be a memorable night and saw the return of two sure-fire Hall of Famers.

Now, WWE usually pumps up the audience with a dark match – a.k.a. a bonus, untelevised match not featured on the card.

The WWE were conflicted with two options – either has The Miz fight Kofi Kingston or have a 15-Diva Battle Royal.

Seeing as Kofi was slated to participate in the WWE Universe Live Chat hosted by Corey Clayton – The Divas had the chance to show the Staples Center what they were made of.

The Royal was not for any prize or recognition – just a showcase of strength.

There were no friends in this Royal as former friends grappled and forced one another out of the ring. But Beth Phoenix proved to be the strongest as she clotheslined two Divas – but Natalya, daughter of Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart, also clotheslined two Divas, one of them being Beth Phoenix.

But in the end, it was Phoenix who prevailed – thanks to the help of special guest referee Chavo Guerrero.

Chavo seemed pretty pleased with his handiwork, until the Divas united to hold him down so that Hornswoggle could perform the Tadpole Splash.

Oh, Chavo… What is WWE doing to the Guerrero name?

The opening match was for the Intercontinental Championship. Dolph Ziggler entered the arena hoping to capture his first title, but dodging the 619 was not enough. Rey Mysterio entered his hometown clad in the Los Angeles colors, executed a top rope hurricanrana, and then finished it off with a second 619 that connected – giving Rey Mysterio the win and still the Intercontinental Champion.

Dolph Ziggler is no doubt meant for future glory in the WWE, but after failing to capture the gold twice, it’s best to let someone else strive for the gold for a while and continue to build up Ziggler with more wins.

Predictions: WWE Presents SummerSlam!

The Biggest Party of the Summer - This Summer's Wrestlemania!

ECW Championship Match

It was a major upset when Christian captured the gold in Tommy Dreamer's old stomping grounds of Philadelphia. However, Christian claims that he is ready to be the face of ECW. But with William Regal as the #1 Contender, he has two BIG reasons why he should be champion: Vladimir Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson. After the devastation that Regal has caused to both Tommy Dreamer and Christian, will he walk out as Champion?

Article(s) to Read: William Regal's Extreme Alliance, The Rise of the Distinguished Gentleman, Christian Outmatches Dreamer in Extreme, Christian Leaves Birthplace as ECW Champion

Prediction: Christian Retains.

The Great Khali vs. Kane

Since coming back at The Bash, Kane has stopped at nothing to destroy Khali. The feud has been thinly spread for the past 2 months, as the battle between the two of them is hopefully to be a bigger clash than the one at Wrestlemania 23. With Kane holding all the momentum, after torturing Khali's brother and translator, Runjin Singh - will Kane win?

Article(s) to Read: Runjin Singh... Why so Serious?, Kane Returns

Prediction: The Great Khali wins.

Unified Tag Team Championship Match

Cryme Tyme's JTG has been on a role lately, pinning D.H. Smith to qualify for the title match and pinning one half of the Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho. But JTG has suffered a crushing submission to Big Show's Colossal Clutch and was part of the losing team this past Friday's Six Man Tag Match: Cyme Tyme & Rey Mysterio vs. The Unified Tag Team Champions & Dolph Ziggler. But can Cryme Tyme pull a major upset and finally capture gold?

Article(s) to Read: WWE Should Develop II: Tag Team Edition, Shaq Clocks in on Monday Night RAW, Chris Jericho and Big Show New Unified Tag Team Champions

Prediction: Chris Jericho and Big Show retain.

MVP vs. Jack Swagger

These two have had different lives. MVP did some time when he was an adolescent and Jack Swagger was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. MVP may have been the longest reigning United States Champion on Smackdown, but Jack Swagger became the ECW Champion in four months of signing his WWE contract. These two have battled before and Swagger has walked away the victor. But MVP is not one to walk away from a challenge.

Article(s) to Read: The Animal Dave Batista in Charge of RAW

Prediction: MVP wins.

Intercontinental Championship Match

Dolph Ziggler is a rising star in the WWE, defeating many reputable opponents - even pinning his SummerSlam opponent this past Friday during the Six Man Tag Match. But Rey Mysterio has been politicking that he keeps his IC title, because he wants a longer title reign instead of the transitional World Heavyweight Paper Champion days.

Article(s) to Read: Dolph Ziggler becomes #1 Contender, Ziggler continues to be Heel, Ziggler scheduled to win, but Mysterio Retains

Prediction: Rey Mysterio retains.

WWE Championship Match

No one knows who really forced Orton to tap, but the following Monday Night on RAW, John Cena beat the clock and will enter Los Angeles as the #1 Contender for the WWE Championship. A title which he hasn't held since October of 2007 whence he held the title for an astounding 380 days. Now, business picks up as he faces the man that took him out of action, causing the title to be vacant at No Mercy 2007. Despite having the entire locker room attack John Cena during Piven's LumberJack Match - Cena proves unstoppable.

Article(s) to Read: Freddy Prince Jr. Hosts RAW, Jeremy Piven Hosts RAW, John Cena Becomes #1 Contender, Randy Orton Retains at Night of Champions

Prediction: John Cena will be the new WWE Champion.

D-Generation X vs. Legacy

There is a question on everyone's mind and that is.... ARE YOU READY? No, I don't think you heard me, I said ARE YOU READY!!!!!!!!!!!!! Well, I certainly am. But it's been a tiring effort for Triple H and Shawn Michaels to build up Legacy. It's crisis mode in the WWE, where RAW, being so busy with celebrity hosting, has failed to build up anyone. So it's up to DX to build up some people. Because if Smackdown can build up John Morrison, Dolph Ziggler, and Rey Mysterio can build up the IC Title; while over on ECW, they can build guys like Zack Ryder, Goldust, William Regal, Vladimir Kozlov, and Ezekiel Jackson - Are you kidding me! So this is why Legacy seems stronger than DX, but doing sneak attacks on the two. If Rated-RKO could not defeat DX, if The Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century (John Morrison and The Miz) could not defeat DX, then what can Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase Jr. do?

Article(s) to Read: D-Generation X is Back! Are You Ready?, WWE Should Develop II

Prediction: D-Generation X

TLC for the World Heavyweight Title

GM Theodore Long stated that TLC is Jeff's specialty, why? Because the Hardys made the TLC match famous. Jeff Hardy has been in more ladder matches than anyone in the WWE. Jeff lives his life in the unforgivable steel of the ladders, the clashing of steel chairs, and the crushing splinters of tables. Yet, CM Punk has been in a few ladder matches of his own - namely the last three Money in the Bank ladder matches at Wrestlemania - where, in the last two years, he's won the MitB contract and cashed it in twice to become a 2-time World Heavyweight Champion. It's because of his last MitB contract that this feud started. It's a match up of two lifestyles but which one will prevail?

Article(s) to Read: Has Jeff Hardy Decided to stay with WWE?, Matt Hardy Makes Amends, TLC Match for SummerSlam Revealed, CM Punk Paints Baltimore Red with Hardy's Blood, Jeff Hardy: The Swanton Bomb that Defied the World

Prediction: Jeff Hardy retains.

Has Jeff Hardy decided to stay with WWE? An Enigmatic Finish to Smackdown

Jeff Hardy and CM Punk's chemistry in the ring is electric! Very few feuds can get a crowd worked up - but HARDY and PUNK is one for the ages.

It is a battle between two lifestyles: The Pious Punk believes that Straight-Edge is the way of life - alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs have never entered his system; then there's the Enigmatic Hardy's belief of Living for the Moment - all the habits that people have it's what makes us different and its a real and beautiful thing about life.

CM Punk wants to rid the WWE once and for all, the stain that Hardy's bad habits have had on the WWE Universe and destroy the Living for the Moment "crap" because there is only one way of living and that's Straight-Edge.

Jeff Hardy stood high atop the ladder and declared that CM Punk could not destroy everything that he has built in his 10-year career (yet, there is that gap of years where he was fired and joined TNA - but that's neither here nor there).

Punk demeaned his way of life and asked Hardy if he thinks he can fly - but Hardy responded, "I don't think that I can fly, my spirit KNOWS it can fly!"

CM Punk tried knocking Hardy out of the ring by tipping over the ladder, but Jeff managed to jump off and deliver a Twist of Fate to Punk - but not without yielding to a falling ladder to the top of the head.

But at the top of the segment, Jeff went on about how his doctors told him he should give up and quit pro wrestling before it is too late. And he goes on about that he is never one to listen to doctor's orders and he does not intend on starting now. What could this mean Jeff?

It's been on everyone's minds for months, when was Jeff actually leaving the company to pursue other endeavors.

Many see SummerSlam as Jeff's final ppv - Then that must mean he'll definitely lose the title tonight, right???

Well, the strange thing is Matt Hardy wrote on his twitter acct - @JEFFHARDYBRAND The time is near for the Hardy Empire to begin.. Starting with the Charismatic Enigma.. 8/25/09

Matt wrote this to his brother Jeff, but what Hardy Empire? The date mentioned is the taping of Smackdown following SummerSlam. So does this mean Jeff will keep his title come SummerSlam and then have a title match: brother vs. brother for the World Heavyweight Title?

It would actually be a nice send off for Jeff - who better to carry on the World Heavyweight Title than Matt Hardy?

Matt's jealousy started during Jeff's feud with Triple H for the WWE Championship - because he's the older one, why is Jeff getting all these World Title matches? And then when Jeff finally won at Armageddon 2008, Matt finally snapped.

But on Smackdown, Matt and Jeff are finally at peace. And as seen in the six man tag match, The Hardys are finally unified.

Yet... again Matt wrote something else on his Twitter acct - Here's an update for the "sheets" -Jeff & I might not team again due to pursuing singles careers. And Jeff will be with WWE after Summerslam.

Most people see this as a confirmation that Jeff Hardy has resigned with the WWE. But, I don't know... seeing as the Hardy Empire will begin 8/25/09? Will Jeff remain with the WWE and continue as the World Heavyweight Champion, while Matt goes on to rebuild his career - possibly become the Intercontinental Champion? Because Matt, in order to become a Grand Slam Champion, must become the IC Champion and then pursue the World Heavyweight Championship.

In the Grand Slam Championship regulations: The ECW and United States Championships do not qualify for the recoginition. However, Matt is almost there since he has 2 of the 4 titles neccessary: The World or WWE Tag Team Titles and The European Title.

The Six Man Tag Team match was one for the future DVD collections - when the Hardys had reformed before it was under Jeff's theme song, but on Smackdown it was to the old school The Hardy Boyz Entrance Theme. I thought that entrance theme was gone forever - but it's very much alive and returned for one night only.

The Hardys haven't lost a step as they executed Poetry in Motion on a cornered CM Punk. However, John Morrison didn't see much in-ring action for a good part of the match, because the audience were happy to see the Hardys team up once again.

Yet, when John Morrison did enter the ring, he made an impact - with his flying Chuck Kick, the Standing Shooting Star Press, and other insane high flying manuevers. Morrison even cleaned out the ring, getting rid of The Hart Dynasty and preforming a corkscrew over the ring and unto Smith and Kidd.

Thanks to Morrison, Jeff was able to get Punk with the Hangman over the top rope, leaving Matt to execute The Twist of Fate and pinning Punk for the win.

Matt Hardy was something else tonight. Not only has be patched things with his brother, but he pinned the #1 Contender for Jeff's World Heavyweight Championship.

The Question is: Will Matt and Morrison make their presence felt this Sunday in the TLC Match, since J.R. mentioned earlier that TLC Matches is a no disqualification setting, where ANYTHING can go?

Or will CM Punk recapture the World Heavyweight Championship and destroy Jeff's way of life forever?

This Week's ECW: 8/17/09, WWE Superstars 8/20/09, & Smackdown: 8/21/09

Team Enigmas vs. Team Punks

Tonight is the final Smackdown before SummerSlam, the battle lines have been drawn, and a brand is divided. Tonight, anything can happen and everything will.

The Battle between Jeff Hardy and CM Punk has grown dark and fierce. Two ideals will be put on the line, but which one will prove true enough to withstand the tortures of tables, ladders, and chairs as the World Heavyweight Championship hangs high above them at SummerSlam?

CM Punk since losing his title at Night of Champions has been on a war path to retain the title. He claimed that he won the title fairly since those are the rules of the MitB contract, but Jeff won it in a full lenght battle and even kicked out of Punk's GTS!

Things haven't been easy for Jeff since Night of Champions, he's had to defend the title twice in the first two weeks of being champion: against John Morrison and CM Punk. But both times CM Punk brutalized Jeff, leaving him battered and broken.

CM Punk has proven in the past that he can win ladder matches, and these past 3 weeks, he's more than proven that he is extreme enough to attack with chairs - but is he ready for TLC?

A major deciding factor returned in full WWE action two weeks ago as the special guest enforcer - Matt Hardy.

Matt showed no remorse for his brother, but he did interfere with CM Punk's certain victory over Jeff in his title rematch.

Had Matt Hardy changed the error of his ways?

Well, when CM Punk once again attacked Jeff at the end of the hanicap match, Matt Hardy and John Morrison came to the Enigma's aid.

And all for nothing, Matt Hardy arrived on the scene to protect his brother - while John Morrison made his choice of who to side with.

Tonight, Teddy Long has set a tremendous main event: World Heavyweight Champion Jeff Hardy teams up with Matt Hardy and John Morrison to take on #1 Contender CM Punk and The Hart Dynasty.

Who will walk away with all the momentum as SummerSlam draws near and the fate of Smackdown will be changed forever.

William Regal's Extreme Alliance; The Hurricane Strikes; And More!

ECW saw the return match of the Hurricane, the ever growing fury between a warrior and a freak, but most importantly, an alliance of gigantic proportions.

The Hurricane was successful in his match against Paul Burchill - much to Burcill's disappointment, Matt Striker seemed to enjoy himself since he is a huge comic book fanatic.

However, Striker went to ahead of himself and revealed too much to soon on the Hurricane: such as his weaknesses, and possible identity.

Many speculate that Gregory Helms is the alleged vigilante, but WWE.com has a separate profile for the new superhero of ECW.

His finisher is the Eye of the hurricane - and thanks to Striker, his weakness is his neck, most likely because it has been surgically repaired - if he was Gregory Helms.

Whatever may be the case, the Hurricane delivered hard Justice to his arch foe, but how long until his identity is revealed?

Now remember Gregory Helms as the backstage interviewer? Well this week we witnessed the debut of Courtney Taylor. The lovely new addition to ECW, interviewed Tommy Dreamer before a sudden attack from #1 Contender William Regal and his tag team partner of the night, Vladimir Kozlov. Turns out that the ambush left Tommy Dreamer unable to compete, leaving Taylor to question Tiffany of the status of the main event.

On the ever failing Abraham Washington Show - the guests were Goldust and Sheamus.

Sheamus holds two pinfall victories over Goldust, but he in turn suffered a loss in their last encounter.

There's no real reason why this feud started - it was a random match up that escalated through proises of domination, and broken pride.

We are reminded in this segment that Goldust suffers from twitches and ticks caused by the lightning bolt that struck him so many years ago.

Of course Washington made fun of the Goldust, but the jokes ceased with the arrival of Sheamus - and his continued quest to take over ECW. These two did not share blows this week, but the animosity between them

keeps on growing.

Zack Ryder continues to impress the fans with his big win over Yoshi Tatsu. It's hard to like Ryder, but you damn well have to respect him - he holds multiple victories over many of the top superstars on ECW; and as Striker mentioned, it's hard not to like someone but also admit that they are better proven by their effectiveness.

Yoshi put up a good front, with a Standing Rolling Senton and a miscalculated over the rope elbow drop - Ryder, being as effective as he is, capitalized on Tatsu's error and scored the victory.

Another thing to mention about Zack Ryder, his entrance is not so bad once you get use to it.

Now the moment of truth, An impeccable ending in the land of extreme. Christian's tag team partner turned out to be none other than - Ezekiel Jackson!

Jackson was the obvious choice - it could've been Shelton Benjamin but lets face it, Kozlov and Jackson have been trying to one up each other for weeks.

Christian and Regal started the match as a preview of their SummerSlam encounter for the ECW Championship. Christian pretty much in desperate need for a tag, was confined to enemy territory and attacked by the Moscow Mauler.

Yet, when Jackson forced his way into the ring to chase out Kozlov - he TURNED on Christian with the Ura-nage! The match ended with a pinfall victory by William Regal.

You would think that being betrayed by your tag team partner was bad enough - but Regal commanded both Jackson and Kozlov to execute their finishers on Christian.

Looks like Regal has stepped up his game ten-fold, with the two biggest juggernauts of ECW on his side. Things are not looking good for the ECW Champion as he has to defend it this Sunday, the only possible person that would bother to be at his side is an injured Tommy Dreamer.

This new alliance of Regal, Kozlov, and Jackson could destroy the Hart Dynasty - and most importantly, it could even take down Legacy.

I for one cannot wait to see how this will play out in the weeks ahead.

Presitge Restored to the United States Title; The Miz's New Attitude

While on Smackdown, the United States Title was rarely defended, this explains why there were such long title reigns on the part of MVP, Matt Hardy, and Shelton Benjamin.

Yet, with its move over to WWE’s franchise brand – RAW – things were looking up for the United States Title.

Ever since Kofi Kingston won the strap from MVP on Monday Night RAW, the United States Title has been defended time and time again; sometimes one-on-one and other times in crazy stipulations – Fatal Four-Way and Six Pack Challenge.

Yet, crazy stipulations don’t generate credibility for a championship. It appears as a stepping stone for the next prize. That’s why I side more with one-on-one competition.

On WWE Superstars, United States Champion Kofi Kingston teamed up with Divas’ Champion Mickie James in a Mixed-Gendered Tag Team Match against Carlito and Rosa Mendes.

Unlike SummerSlam 2008, Kofi and Mickie’s titles were not on the line – but a pinfall on either champion can open up doors to a future title shot.

Which is exactly what happened when Kofi was pinned after a fatal Backstabber by Carlito; the pinfall granted the Southpaw from San Juan a Title shot last Monday Night on RAW.

The match was issued by RAW’s Guest Host, Freddy Prince Jr., in attempts to bring SummerSlam to the RAW audience, a little early.

Rosa Mendes once again came out to support Carlito, possibly his new arm candy. If you notice, Mendes is now showing off her flat stomach, probably happy that she shed the weight before getting the axe. Yet, it was funny when she got into the ring along with Carlito (She’s there for ringside support, not to join the match) – He looked at her and politely told her to get out.

The match was a Caribbean Clash of Cool vs. Boom! Carlito has shown more aggression in the ring and his fro dangles low – like an Emo-Caribbean Cool. Many times, Carlito was almost disqualified for not adhering to the ref’s 5-count, but it took the Trouble in Paradise Kick to ensure victory on The Jamaican Superstar, proving that he is a fighting champion and accepts any challenge.

Yet, this match wasn’t the end of the United States Title picture, but the beginning. The following match was not a #1 Contenders match, but it was proving a statement of who is championship material.

The match was Evan “Air” Bourne against the return of The Miz. Two weeks ago, Miz was banned from RAW indefinitely under the stipulation set by Jeremy Piven if he lost to Cena, which he did.

Rumors went around that he would be reassigned to a new brand – possibly start a feud with John Morrison over on Smackdown, or even pursue other projects in Hollywood. But the rumors were silenced last week as the Calgary Kid won the Contract on the Pole match against the returning and now released Eugene. The Calgary Kid was revealed to be none other than – THE MIZ!

The Miz stated before his match against Bourne that he has a new attitude, new look, but the same mouth. The Miz has traded his shorts for a pair of Ying and Yang trunks. I for one love the new look, it shows that he is serious about his wrestling technique – especially since locking Bourne in an Inverted Double Underhook Boston Crab.

Bourne put up a good fight, but Miz anticipated every high flying maneuver and secured the victory with a new finisher – The Skull Crushing Finale (Full Nelson Facebuster)

The Miz stated at the end of his match that this is the first step on his road to the United States Championship. If Miz were to defeat Kofi Kingston, this would mark his first single’s title.

A good part of the first hour of RAW was devoted to the United States Title: A successful title defense; and the promise of a pursuit for the title – Thus, restoring prestige back to the Title.