RAW Results: 3/29/10 - No Go for Jack Swagger

The Champ is Here, or is He?

Many moments were made at WrestleMania, the start of a career and the ending of one, but the culmination of the face of the company came down to John Cena tapping out Batista. Two years ago at Summerslam, Batista defeated John Cena in a one-on-one match; yet, Batista has based this whole WrestleMania title defense on that one match. Batista kept saying that John Cena has never defeated him, yet it was only one match. John Cena, the new WWE Champion yet again, presented Batista with a rematch for the WWE Championship. However, John Cena knowing full well that Batista will decline the opportunity for another night, narrorates to the WWE Universe on Batista's next move. This whole John Cena being the champ thing is a drag and we know, and John Cena knows it, that the following day it is usually the same thing over and over again. Why must we be tortured of seeing these things again?

Or is it the same? Jack Swagger, this year's Mr. Money in the Bank, attacked John Cena with the briefcase and called for a referee to cash in for the WWE Championship. Then again, John Cena managed to shake it off and almost caught Swagger in the STF, but Swagger escaped and declined his cashing in. If Swagger were to have cashed in and tapped out, it would have been the biggest waste of a Money in the Bank contract in history; in addition, it would have been the first time that a Money in the Bank contract did not yield a champion.

WWE Going Back in Time
Christian vs. Ted DiBiase - 80's Lumberjack Match

By order of the stars of the Hot Tub Time Machine (who travel back in time to the 80's), issued that the first match be contested under Lumberjack rules. And because the stars go back in time to the 80's, the lumberjacks are all legends from the 80's: "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, Irwin R. Schyster, Pat Patterson, Nick Bockwinkel, Arn Anderson, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Sgt. Slaughter, Tony Garea, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, and Jerry "The King" Lawler.

The Lumberjack match was between Christian and Ted DiBiase Jr.,. Neither men accomplished their goals at WrestleMania, but this is a RAW to remember because it is Shawn Michael's farewell to the WWE Universe. So if there was ever a time to make an impact it would be on this night. The two traded blows but after both Christian and DiBiase went over the ropes that's when the lumberjacks started trading blows to one another. You can that the wrestler out of the fight, but you cannot take the fight out of the wrestler. Christian capitalized on the distraction with a Killswitch to win the match.

10-Diva WrestleMania Rematch

At WrestleMania, Vickie Guerrero paid tribute to her late husband with the Frog Splash, or Bullfrog splash to win the match. However, this rematch lasted only 3 seconds, exactly the amount of time it takes to cover an opponent as Eve Torres scooped the Divas' Champion Maryse for the 1-2-3. And if that were not pointless enough, the divas "brawled" at the conclusion of the match, with the babyfaces on top.

Miz has Gold, but no Hart
ShoMiz vs. The Hart Dynasty (Non-title)

Bret Hart congratulates Shawn Michaels on the end of his storybook career. He admits that Shawn Michaels is the best wrestler of all time, and coming from "The Hitman" that means something. He thanks his mother, father, brother Owen, and D.B. Smith from Heaven for giving him the strength to return back to the WWE in order to find closure to the Montreal Screw job.

Leave it to the ShoMiz to ruin a fond farewell of the Hitman as The Miz mocks Bret Hart for winning his glorified 25-on-1 match against Vince McMahon. Win one match at WrestleMania and The Miz gets a swelled head. But you have to admire the heel streak of The Miz from mocking JBL a few months ago in a promo, to mocking Bret Hart. And Miz is right in stating that Bret Hart is overrated. The WrestleMania match between Bret and Vince was one of the worst worked matches in recent history. So when it came time to knock Bret Hart out of the ring, The Hart Dynasty provided back up.

Ever since helping Bret Hart out at WrestleMania which saw a Hart Attack utilized on Vince McMahon, The Hart Dynasty have gotten a wave of momentum, especially becoming instant fan favorites. In a non-title match against ShoMiz, The Hart Dynasty put the champions on notice. David Hart Smith placed Miz in a standing vertical suplex and Tyson Kidd managed to withstand Big Show's punishment due to his relentless energy and resilience. Yet, Miz, for some reason, tagged himself in when Big Show had Tyson locked in a chin lock. The match spiraled out of control for ShoMiz as the Harts connected the Hart Attack on Miz followed by a Sharpshooter. But before Miz could tap out, Big Show dragged Miz out of the ring and they were counted out. If the Miz wasn't so cocky and allowed The Big Show to do what he does best, than these things wouldn't happen. And even though the Harts did not pin or submit either Miz or Big Show, they still have a win over The Unified Tag Team Champions.

Mr. RKO trumps Mr. MitB
John Cena and Randy Orton vs. Batista and Jack Swagger

Never in a lifetime would anyone expect to see John Cena and Randy Orton willingly work together as a team. The main event match was Jack Swagger and Batista against John Cena and a partner of his choosing. And to have Randy Orton as his tag team partner is not only a shock but a statement that Randy Orton has become a fan favorite. John Cena and Orton have been mortal enemies ranging from 2007-2009, and it all came to an end at Bragging Rights as John Cena defeated Orton for the WWE Title in a one-hour Iron Man Match. But Orton's hatred for the men of Evolution, the faction he was a part of in 2005, runs deeper. Orton will never forget the night when Evolution turned on him after winning the World Heavyweight Title.

Randy Orton prevailed at WrestleMania, forever severing him from The Legacy. The match was a renewal in his career, and this main event generated more momentum from the WWE Universe. As the fans over on SmackDown chant "Spear," those of RAW chant "RKO." Randy Orton struck Batista and Jack Swagger with RKO's, and covered Swagger for the win. Mr. Money in the Bank, Jack Swagger is no where near ready to cash in that contract for the WWE Title if he cannot keep up with the RAW main-eventers.

RAW Results: 3/22/10 - Final RAW to WrestleMania

Shawn Michael's Final Week?

There were mixed reactions over Shawn Michaels past accomplishments. Defeating Bret Hart for the WWE Title, and coming close to ending Taker's Streak. Now, something that has been an overall giveaway of Michaels' pending doom at 'Mania is WWE's release of "My Journey" DVD set which chronicles Michaels' career. Michaels reassures everyone that there will be a volume 2. And after 'Mania he will be forever known as the man who ended the Streak.

To intimidate Michaels, Taker throws down the lights and shows a video package spanning Shawn's life, ending with the solem words "Shawn Michaels Career will Rest in Peace."

Pete Rose issued Shawn Michaels a match against Kane, and it will be contested in either pinfall or submission. Pete Rose has not forgotten what Kane did to him years ago at WrestleMania (piledriver), and knows Michaels is the man for the job.

Morrison versus Miz: WrestleMania caliber?
John Morrison vs. The Miz

Former tag team partners now find themselves on opposing sides at this year's WrestleMania. Last year, The Miz and John Morrison teamed up in a losing effort against the Colons in what was the creation of the Unified Tag Team Titles. The Miz finally became the Unified Tag Team Champion after defeating D-X with The Big Show several weeks ago. And at WrestleMania, Miz will be defending those titles against the man that carried him, who made him into a superstar, John Morrison along with R-Truth.

Since going their separate ways via the draft, these two have squared off in the ring on more than one occasion. But the result has always been the same, The Miz rising on top. As part of the action from two weeks ago (Show def. Morrison, Truth def. Miz), John Morrison took on The Miz while his tag team partner will take on The Big Show this Friday on SmackDown.

Honestly, Morrison-Miz should be the WrestleMania match, instead of a tag team match. Miz and Morrison work best together as a team, and definitely against one another. The final Dirt Sheet promo prior to Bragging Rights is only a sampling of what these two can do. This feud is still fresh and could have very well made it to the Show of Shows.

John Morrison defeated Miz in a classic match, only to be ruined with a commercial break. The record for Miz is 0-2 against Truth and Morrison in single matches, can Big Show even the score with another victory this SmackDown?

Kofi Kingston: 10th and Final Money in the Bank Qualifier
Kofi Kingston vs. Vladimir Kozlov (Money in the Bank Qualifying Match)

Ever since Drew McIntyre became the 9th qualifier (unheard of in years past) the need for a 10th qualifier was evident. Who better than to have Kofi Kingston, a superstar that had been receiving a push back in the fall. But the winter season slowed down Kofi's push for some reason.

During this exact time last year, Shawn Michaels delivered Vladimir's first loss to gain the right to take on The Undertaker at WrestleMania. Now, a year later, Kozlov jobbed to Kofi Kingston.

Randy Orton becoming a Fan Favorite?
Triple-H and Randy Orton vs. Legacy and Sheamus

It doesn't matter who wins at WrestleMania as long as Orton doesn't? If there is anything that Legacy learned from Orton is to have an ego. And in their promo, signs of a struggle exist. A triple threat means every man for themselves, there are no friends.

During the match, Rhodes and DiBiase kept Triple-H in their corner, making frequent tags. Sheamus entered the fray by attacking Hunter on the outside (without referee's nohow) and was legally tagged in.

Then when Orton was tagged in, the crowd really popped. Orton was taking out Rhodes, DiBiase, and Sheamus one by one. With side scoop slams, and arm lock back breakers, Orton was short of one RKO to win it. Yet, trying to Hang DDT Rhodes, Orton was kicked in the face by Sheamus, leading to a pinfall victory for the Celtic Warrior. With that said, the WWE Universe will be behind Triple-H and Randy Orton in their respective matches.

Bret Beat Vince, or Bret still Screwed?

Bret Hart made it clear that his match against Vince will be the apex of his career. Past WrestleMania memories include Bret defeating Piper for the I-C title, his World Title win against Yokozuna, his Iron Match against Michaels, and his match against Owen. This match will be Bret Hart's cleansing from the whole Montreal Screw job. But Vince has vowed that Bret will be screwed one way or another.

Shawn's Journey Continues?
Shawn Michaels vs. Kane

Shawn Michaels could very well lose this Sunday's match against The Undertaker, and therefore his career will be over. As mentioned by Pete Rose, this match against Kane must be won by either pinfall or submission.

Knowing this, Michaels attempted various submission maneuvers: Crippler Crossface and The Ankle Lock. Moves made famous by past WrestleMania opponents Chris Benoit and Kurt Angle. Shawn Michaels, going into his possible final match, must bring everything that he has learned from every opponent he has ever faced in order to take down The Undertaker. And just like Pete Rose said, there is no one better to end the Streak than Michaels.

Taker, getting back at Michaels for last week, appeared to deliver a chokeslam. Then Taker disappeared and Kane went for the pinfall, but Michaels kicked out. Michaels won with a superkick, and looks to use all the lessons learned on his Journey to face the only man that ever mattered, The Undertaker.

A 2 Diva Squash Masquerading in a 6-Diva Tag

On one side of the ring, Eve Torres, Gail Kim, Beth Phoenix with Mickie James and Kelly-Kelly at ringside. On the other side, Michelle McCool, Layla, Maryse with Alicia Fox and Vickie Guerrero at ringside. This could have been a showcase of implosion of Divas from both SmackDown-RAW, but it ended shortly.

Gail Kim took on Michelle McCool and struck with some fast offense. But Gail's failed jack knife pin attempt, was countered into a pin, then into a Faith Breaker pinfall victory. What was the point of the rest of these Divas. The WWE fans were expecting a hard fought match, and turned into a disappointing showcase of what WWE fails to realize. Fans want to see women wrestlers wrestle good matches, just look at TNA's product.

This Divas Match could actually become a WrestleMania match. By the way, it was great to see Mickie James walking about as she heals from her knee injury, or taking a break from promoting her music album.

The Final Faceoff, really?

Batista claims that John Cena has never defeated him. They only had one match at Summerslam two years ago. And Batista called Cena a corporate product, he is right, but so is he. Both Cena and Batista are products of the WWE that cannot make it anywhere else. As the fans chanted "He can't wrestle!"

Batista trying to get major heat from the fans, and Cena gaining sympathy from them leads this main event into a disappointing upset. We all know that Cena will become the WWE Champion for the 7th or 8th time. Unless WWE are smart and have Batista win in order to give him some credibility.

RAW 3/15/10 - 100% Stone Cold RAW

WWE's past vs WWE's present

Oh how far WWE has fallen... When John Cena stood in the same presence as Stone Cold Steve Austin, the fans of the Attitude Era wept. Stone Cold Steve Austin may not seem like much of a wrestler, but he was a technician in the ring who went grip for grap with "The Excellence of Execution" Bret Hart.

Now, during the post-Attitude Era, we have John Cena. Did Stone Cold pass the proverbial torch to Cena, or just acknowledge's him as the new face of the WWE? John Cena has never been the technician that Stone Cold was, he has been nothing more than a performer, an entertainer. The torch, if any, was not passed down by Stone Cold, but by Hulk Hogan. The post-Attitude Era resembles that of the Federation years, when Hulkamania ran wild, and everyone wore the Hogan t-shirts and bandanas. Now, everyone wears Cena t-shirts and headbans.

Cen-a-Mania is Runnin' Wild!
Big Show vs. John Cena

The first WrestleMania Rewind was John Cena vs. The Big Show. Reliving WrestleMania XX, when John Cena defeated The Big Show to capture the United States Title.

Each and everytime these two step into the ring, Cena must always try to lift Show for the Attitude Adjustment. And each time he does, Cena collapses under Show's weight. In addition, this is the only match up when Big Show is considered the underdog.

And if you happen to disagree with Cena's comparison to the Hulkster, then think of it this way, no one thought that Hogan could scoop slam Andre the Giant, but at WrestleMania III it happened. And not only was Big Show once gimmicked as the son of Andre the Giant, but it was deemed impossible to pick him up for the fireman's carry throw. But at WrestleMania XX, not only did John Cena execute the Attitude Adjuster, but he catipulted his career.

Yet, this time around there would be no Attitude Adjuster, but a knock out punch by The Big Show. It wasn't due to Show's dominance whatsoever, but a lucky distraction from an angry Batista.

The Weakest of the Weak
Kelly-Kelly vs. Maryse

Kelly-Kelly received a bigger crowd reaction than the Divas' Champion Maryse, not only in sex appeal but in wrestling ability. How bad of a wrestler is Maryse when Kelly-Kelly is carrying the match? As we have seen several times against Gail Kim, Maryse does not execute a single wrestling maneuver except for her French-Kiss DDT.

Despite carrying the match and connecting with the K2 leg drop, Kelly-Kelly lost via the French-Kiss DDT. Maryse then started kicking Kelly-Kelly until Gail Kim and Eve came to her aid.

Yet, instead of having Katie Lea, Alicia Fox, or Jillian Hall come to Maryse's aid, RAW was invaded by SmackDown's "Simply-Flawless" crew. Sadly, Eve, who has been getting a steady push, was easily tossed out of the ring by Layla, no less. Then she was kicked in the side of the face by McCool.

Thanks to the assist and lack of acknowledgment by Simply-Flawless, the Divas' Champion has never looked weaker.

Celtic Warrior's Claim to Dethrone the King of Kings
Sheamus vs. Evan Bourne

A laughable concept to believe that Evan Bourne can take on the Celtic Warrior, and to think that Bourne's 4-win streak would be tarnished. Surprisingly, Evan did not lose, but he didn't win either. No, the match never started because Sheamus destroyed Bourne before the bell even rung.

The exhibition of Sheamus' strenght is a testament to what the first-ever Irish born WWE Champion brings to the table. His hopes was to defend the WWE Title at WrestleMania, but thanks to The Game, Triple-H, Sheamus got something he desired more, and that is a one-on-one match with the best in the business. A match up against Triple-H at WrestleMania will indeed skyrocket his career, whether or not he wins.

WrestleMania is where legends are made. Undertaker can attests to that when he scored his first victory over "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka at WrestleMania VII, which would be the start of his legendary streak. Shawn Michaels, though not an impressive win record, has proven every year why he is Mr. WrestleMania. Can the Celtic Warrior become a legend and take over the King of Kings' throne?

The Rated-R Spear!
Shawn Michaels vs Jericho

WrestleMania Rewinds means jack squat in the realm of the WWE. Its not about living in the past, its about looking towards the future. We saw it with Cena's match against Big Show, and this match was no different.

Michaels vowed to destroy Jericho in order to send a message to Undertaker; because not even Stone Cold believes that Michaels can end the streak.

Reliving WrestleMania XIX, Shawn and Chris returned once again to the ring. But let us not forget that these two had a hell of a feud during the end of 2008. Chris Jericho attempted to choke out Michaels with a sleeper, then went for the patent lionsault, but was countered by Michaels' lifted knees. Then, knowing Michaels' back history, tried slapping on the Walls of Jericho, but Michaels managed to break loose.

Michaels, showing everyone why he is the Showstopper, struck with an atomic drop, the emphatic elbow drop from the top turnbuckle, and tried ending it with some Sweet Chin Music. But Jericho rolled out and counted himself out.

Now, either my WWE knowledge proceeds me, or WWE has become too predictable. Seeing as Vickie and LayCool came from SmackDown to RAW, there was no doubt that Edge had managed to tag along. "You think you know me," actually Edge, I know more than you think. Edge appeared at the top of the ramp and attacked Jericho. Then when Edge struck Jericho with another spear in the center of the ring, the crowd were on their feet cheering. Then the exclamation point, Edge whispers to Jericho "spear..."

The crowds reaction may be a sign of Edge becoming an emphatic fan favorite. It can also attribute for RAW's need of real wrestling talent.

No Respect for Mentors
Triple-H vs. Randy Orton

John Cena vs. Randy Orton may have been considered "the" feud of recent WWE history, but one that has been equally as memorable has been Triple-H vs. Randy Orton. Ranging from the days of Evolution until now, there has always been a heated rivalry between Orton and his mentor.

It has been announced that at WrestleMania, Randy Orton will take on Legacy in a Triple Threat Match. Orton's thoughts on the match and his WrestleMania Rewind with Triple-H comes down to respect. Despite their disagreements, Orton respects Triple-H, but he doesn't respect Ted DiBiase Jr. and Cody Rhodes.

In a Triple-H-Randy Orton match, what can you except from two methodical technicians? Triple-H, knowing Randy so well, escaped a hanging DDT only to be struck with a modified hanging DDT on the outside. Randy kick out from a spine buster, but failed to strike with the RKO, which was countered into a pedigree.

However, the match never saw its conclusion because Rhodes and DiBiase attacked Triple-H and tossed him out of the ring. They did this in order to redirect their attention to Randy. But before Triple-H could fire back at the young Legacy, Sheamus came out of nowhere to deliver the bicycle kick.

There was a moment of pensive thought between Rhodes and DiBiase as they were being starred down by Sheamus, before carefully leaving the ring and dragging Orton with them. Sheamus may be the youngest member of the RAW roster, next to Yoshi Tatsu, but he is a man that has certainly captured the respect from both Rhodes and DiBiase.

At WrestleMania: Randy Orton vs. Ted DiBiase Jr. vs. Cody Rhodes (Triple-Threat Match)

The Animal Sees Red
Batista vs. Kofi Kingston

Batista's legitimate hatred towards John Cena is underlined by the notion that Stone Cold has passed the proverbial torch on to him. Yet, instead of confronting The Texan Rattlesnake, Batista had a grueling display of barbaric strength against Kofi Kingston.

As much as it was forced on to the fans, Batista vs. John Cena will indeed happen at WrestleMania. And the outcome has been determined since WrestleMania 21. John Cena has proven his unyielding strength last week after he kicked out of 5 finishers, and earlier, when he nonchalantly struck Big Show with the 5 knuckle shuffle.

But after having his face cut open by Kofi Kingston's double kick, then viciously clotheslining Kingston in mid-air followed by numerous Batista Bombs, Batista has tipped the scales in his favor. As part of WWE's No-Blood policy, the referee must medically clean the cut as soon as it is visible, but Batista would not allow it. Batista's disregard of the No-Blood policy may be attributed to his desire to have been a part of the Attitude Era, and staking his claim of being the rightful successor of Stone Cold Steve Austin.

McMahon stuck between a Stone Cold and a Hart Place

Thirteen years ago, Bret may have screwed Bret, and recently, Vince may have screwed Bret, but chosing Stone Cold as the guest host, Vince screwed Vince. In a contract signing between these combustible elements, there is only one man that can keep these guys in check, and that is the guy who had been whipping their asses since the start - Stone Cold Steve Austin.

Stone Cold Steve Austin had an intense feud with Bret Hart back in '96, and, who can dare forget, the feud that highlighted the Attitude Era against McMahon. Knowing these guys full well, Steve Austin assessed the situation and declared that Stu Hart would indeed be inducted into this year's WWE Hall of Fame.

Bret Hart made one request regarding their match at WrestleMania, that it be contested as a No Holds Barred Match. McMahon consented and reminded Bret if he did not show up for their match that he would sue him for all he's worth.

Stone Cold made the official declaration that Bret Hart would face McMahon at WrestleMania in a No Holds Barred Match. Then one other announcement was made, but it wasn't from Steve Austin.

The horrendously executed car accident was indeed meant to be fake because Bret Hart wanted to lure McMahon in, not only a match at 'Mania, a No Holds Barred Match at 'Mania. And if McMahon skips out of their match, Bret will sue McMahon for all he's worth.

At WrestleMania: Vince McMahon vs. Bret "The Hitman" Hart (No Holds Barred Match)

RAW Results: 3/8/10 - Pushes and Failures

Major Push for Eve Torres
(Six-Divas Tag Match) Eve Torres, Gail Kim, and Kelly-Kelly vs. Maryse, Alicia Fox, Katie Lea

After pinning Alicia Fox last week in a Diva Pajama Pillow Fight Match, Eve Torres scored the biggest victory of her career by defeating the Divas' Champion in a Six-Divas Tag match. The match also included: Gail Kim, Kelly-Kelly, Alicia Fox, and Katie Lea.

To emphasize, Eve Torres not only defeated Maryse but she made her tap out to the same armbar lock submission that crowned Michelle McCool as the inaugural Divas' Champion - The Bash, 2008.

In addition, it appears that Gail Kim has passed the torch to the 2007 Diva Search Winner. During last week's match, Eve dropped kicked Gail Kim out of the ring in order to capitalize on Alicia Fox; now this week, after submitting the Divas' Champion, Gail Kim raised the arm of Eve Torres as a sign of mutual respect, and transference of status.

Since coming over to SmackDown in 2007, and later being drafted over to RAW during the tri-branded Divas Draft, Eve Torres has been steadily working her way up the ladder, and with a win over Maryse, expect a Championship match.

WWE's Faulty Tag Team Division
ShoMiz vs. John Morrison and R-Truth

The Miz, in regards to the #1 contenders, states that ShoMiz is a dying breed because they are the last great tag team that the WWE has to offer.

A shot at his former tag partner John Morrison, the man who truly carried Miz; or a blatant shot at WWE's lack of development in the tag team division?

During the first half of the last decade, WWE had epic tag team matches, which ranged from TLC, ladder, and championship matches. But after the Invasion died out, WWE were left with two sets of tag titles and not enough tag teams to contend for them. Hence, WWE decided to fuse the titles together.

But after a year since the Unified Tag Team Titles were created, it looks as though WWE has exhausted all of its tag team possibilities, that they must rely on a makeshift team of two elevated midcarders to contend at WrestleMania.

The fault obviously lies with the WWE for its lack of development. Every time a formidable tag team was created, plans of sepration soon followed. Separating teams has always been WWE's rash attempt to create big name stars, such as Shawn Michaels (The Rockers), Edge (The Brood), and Jeff Hardy (The Hardys); yet, it doesn't always work out to that effect. Teams such as The World's Greatest Tag Team, The Colons, Hawkins and Ryder, and Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch suffered severely from the breakups.

In a warm-up match between ShoMiz and John Morrison and R-Truth, the new team disregarded the referee's 5-count and double teamed both members of ShoMiz to state the credibility of the new alliance. But in a championship match, where the rules will matter, Morrison and Truth will have to rely on expert tag team knowledge, which Morrison has, to overcome the Last Great Tag Team.

The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of The Legacy
(Handicap Match) Randy Orton vs. Legacy

In an age of wrestling where new stars need to emerge, comes the rise, fall, and rebirth of The Legacy. Since its formation in 2008, Randy Orton has been mentoring and pushing both Ted DiBiase Jr. and Cody Rhodes.

Sons of Ted DiBiase and Dusty Rhodes, respectively, these second generation superstars are far from the legendary statuses of their fathers. But, ruled under Orton's iron fist, they have attained their own identities.

Within the past year, signs of Legacy's downfall were eminent. Rhodes and DiBiase were becoming fan favorites, supressed under an unruly Orton. But after his matches against Sheamus, Orton is now associated as the fan favorite.

This week, Randy Orton faced off against Rhodes and DiBiase in a handicap match. Orton attacked Rhodes and DiBiase during their entrance, thus setting the tone of the match. He then dominated the match by establishing his superiority over his proteges. Outmatching Rhodes and DiBiase, Orton continued to conquer each one individually, until Legacy started using their heads. Rhodes, the cause of many of Orton's loses to Sheamus, provided the distraction on the outside, therefore, allowing DiBiase to strike with Dream Street for the win.

The Legacy rose in 2008, it fell in 2010, and the rebirth of two new superstars will be determined.

Evan is 'Air-Bourne' to WrestleMania
(Money in the Bank Qualifying Match) William Regal vs. Evan Bourne

After defeating William Regal, last Thursday on WWE Superstars, Evan Bourne was slated in a rematch against The English Blue Blood, but this time it was for the final spot in the Money in the Bank Ladder match. Learning from the last encounter, Regal overpowered Evan with a hip toss and a butterfly suplex. But he failed to calculate the split-second reaction from Evan Bourne, as he evaded the Knee Trembler. Bourne struck the momentarily distracted Regal with a knee strike, which was followed by Air Bourne. In his fourth-straight victory thus far, Evan Bourne will be going to WrestleMania.

The Final List of Money in the Bank Competitors Are: Shelton Benjamin, Dolph Ziggler, Kane, Matt Hardy, Christian, MVP, Jack Swagger, and Evan Bourne.

WWE's Aborted Superstars
Mr. McMahon vs. John Cena

On a history making Monday Night, where TNA promised the in-ring returns of retirees, Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan, WWE promised a main event pitting the Chairman of the Board, Vincent Kennedy McMahon against John Cena. And not only would McMahon face off against John Cena, but he vowed that he would pin Cena for the 3-count. However, McMahon did not promise that he would actually wrestle John Cena. Therefore, McMahon created stipulations, mid-match, to contour to his benefit.

The first stipulation was a Gauntlet Match involving Vladimir Kozlov, Drew McIntyre, Jack Swagger, and Mark Henry. After Vladimir's Iron Curtain, Drew's Armbar Takedown, Swagger's body splashes, and Mark Henry's World's Strongest Slam, John Cena managed to kick out each time.

McMahon, who covered Cena after each maneuver, out of frustration changed the stipulation to a No-DQ match. Eventually, Batista, who promised that he would not interfere with the match, attacked Cena with two Batista Bombs in a row. McMahon, as promised, pinned Cena.

McMahon's Gauntlet Match incorporated superstars which either the WWE is currently working on, or have given up on:

Vladimir Kozlov: Started out in the WWE Championship picture against Triple-H and Jeff Hardy, until he was banished to ECW. Kozlov was then brought back to SmackDown only because ECW had ended. WWE, realizing their failed attempts at creating a powerhouse superstar in Kozlov, have currently no plans to further his development.

Drew McIntyre: Undefeated until two weeks ago, Drew has lost two consecutive matches and has failed to earn a spot for WrestleMania. Drew McIntyre is still being pushed regardless, possibly having his second loss erased from the record books again, but he has not gone over with the fans.

Jack Swagger: Became the ECW Champion within four-months of signing with the company, was moved over to RAW and, despite a short feud with MVP, has been forgotten. The two-time All American, has the charisma and wrestling ability to carry the company as a World Champion, but WWE may be reluctant due to his lisp.

Mark Henry: Receiving his biggest push about two years ago, when he captured the ECW Title in a Triple Threat match at Night of Champions, Mark Henry has since returned to RAW and has undergone a face-turn. Despite his accomplishments in ECW, the ECW Champion is the equivilent of the mid-carder on RAW.

RAW Results: 3/1/10 - Bumps on 'Mania Road

D-X Testament

Shawn Michaels addressed the WWE Universe explaining how members of the locker room can't even look at him. At WrestleMania, Shawn will place his career against The Undertaker's Streak. His peers cannot bare to look at him because it has never been broken. The Streak is 17-0, and to bet against it is career suicide. Michaels then challenged anyone to come out and admit that they feel he can't win.

Queue in Triple-H. Of all the people, why Triple-H? Hunter flat out looked Michaels in the face and told him that he doesn't think, but he knows that he will end the streak. Triple-H has been in the business for over a decade and has fought everyone that there is to fight, but no one has been better than Shawn Michaels.

Then Triple-H suggested that D-X reform for one night in order to invoke their rematch clause for the Unified Tag Team Titles against ShoMiz. Shawn and Hunter have no need for the titles, but title contracts state that title holders have 30 days to defend them; 29 days from now is the RAW after WrestleMania. To Triple-H's testament, Shawn Michaels will have defeated the Streak, and celebrate in the only way that D-X can. The inspiring reply from Michaels gave us all hope, "I guess we have some tag team titles to win!"

Victor Von Orton and his creations
Randy Orton vs. Ted DiBiase Jr.

For a match perceived with great repute when first put together by 2010 WWE Hall of Fame inductee, "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, WWE wasted an Orton-DiBiase Jr. match on free television, yet again. The first encounter, Randy Orton inched away a victory; the second time, he scored a pinfall by threatening DiBiase Jr. out of Legacy if he didn't. Then at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view, Ted DiBiase Jr. shocked the WWE Universe by eliminating Orton thus costing him the WWE Title.

During the match, Ted DiBiase Jr. managed to get the upper hand by mirroring Orton's moves. Orton regained control by stomping DiBiase's wrist followed up by the infamous Randy Orton Stomps. Then Cody Rhodes, no doubt executing last week's original plan, interfered by attacking Orton. Yet, surprisingly, the crowd booed Legacy for attacking Orton, and cheered when Orton tossed DiBiase over the ropes and struck Rhodes with the inverted headlock backbreaker. Too much animosity has brewed between all three members that it has been announced that Orton will take on Rhodes and DiBiase Jr. in a handicap match next week on RAW.

Jack Swagger dominates Santino with authority
(Money in the Bank Qualifying Match) Jack Swagger vs. Santino Marella

If you blinked then you missed it, Jack Swagger quickly defeated Santino Marella with the Gut wrench powerbomb. Jack Swagger, along with Christian, Dolph Ziggler, Kane, and Shelton Benjamin, will compete in the Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania. Can The All-American-American become Mr. Money in the Bank? Seeing as Swagger lost last year's Extreme Rules pay-per-view Triple-Threat match against Tommy Dreamer and Christian, will he be any better with ladders?

WrestleMania 21 crowned two champions, who became enemies

Remember when John Cena compared his WWE title loss to the non-kayfabe Montreal screw job? Bold words from a guy who was not there, but this week, John Cena is okay with Batista as the WWE Champion, for one reason. Because once again, John Cena's match at WrestleMania will be a championship main-event.

Batista reveals the reasons for his actions. Their main-event careers began at WrestleMania 21: John Cena winning the WWE Title, and Batista winning the World Heavyweight Title. But since then, their careers went completely different directions. John Cena is the face of the WWE; the perverbial torch from Steve Austin has been passed to Cena; Cena is on the cover of every magazine, appearing in every WWE promotion, and starring in movies (albeit bad).

Regardless of his lack of wrestling ability and his loud voiced interviews, in which he feels that he has to scream each word to get his point across, John Cena gives everything he has to the business. In their last encounter at Summerslam 2008, Batista injuried Cena's neck which required surgery; as soon as he was able to walk, Cena was backstage at RAW to see how things were going.

John Cena once considered Batista a friend, but their paths have crossed yet again, and this time the WWE Title will be on the line at WrestleMania.

Radio signal not as strong as on ECW
(Money in the Bank Qualifying Match) MVP vs. Zack Ryder

Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes have signed with RAW, as announced during his match on WWE Superstars against Primo, and was placed in a Money in the Bank qualifying match against MVP. Zack Ryder's first night on RAW and he was already given the recognition that he deserves, right? Much like Swagger's win earlier, MVP easily disposed of Ryder with the Playmaker.

Zack Ryder has performed near brink of the edge matches against Christian on ECW; won a battle royal to be crowned the #1 contender for the ECW Title; ended the career of Tommy Dreamer; and battled Hurricane in his final matches before being released. How in the world is Ryder getting the Santino treatment?

The Money in the Bank competitors are as follows: Christian, Dolph Ziggler, Kane, Shelton Benjamin, Jack Swagger, MVP, and 2 more spots remain. SmackDown and RAW are evenly matched thus far, so the best solution would be to add one more competitor from each brand.

Divas' Pajama Pillow Fight
Gail Kim, Kelly-Kelly, and Eve Torres vs. Maryse, Alicia Fox, and Jillian Hall

In a match issued by Guest Hosts, Cheech and Chong, after getting a sugar high on Hornswoggle's Lucky Charms breakfast cereal, featured Gail Kim (Hello Kitty jammies, type-casted), Kelly-Kelly, and Eve Torres against Maryse, Jillian Hall, and Alicia Fox. What was assumed to be a six-Diva tag team match turned into a free-for-all as the faces hit the faces, and the heels hit the other heels. Jillian Hall broke up the pillow fight by driving vicious clotheslines against every woman in the ring, friend or foe.

By the end of the match, Gail Kim almost won after connecting with Eat Defeat on Alicia Fox, but was dropped kicked out of the ring by Eve Torres. The match ended with Eve Torres connecting with a Seated Senton on Alicia Fox, thus being declared the winner. Looks like Eve has a better success rate than Chris Masters.

The 'Hart' of WrestleMania

Vince McMahon denied screwing Bret Hart at the Survivor Series 1997. Now, after twelve years, McMahon finally admits to it. Since coming back, Bret Hart has been kicked, spat, and humiliated. McMahon, at one final attempt to fill his ego, challenged Bret to a match at WrestleMania. A challenge issued weeks ago by Bret, and the only reason to accepting it now is because Bret has been forced onto a crutch again. The one fleeting passion that drove Bret into accepting this match, despite being hit by a car two weeks ago, is the seething pent up rage that has been stirring for 12 long years.

With about 10 years of ring rust, being a stroke victim, and old age wearing down Bret Hart, this match may be far from excellence. But Bret came back to the WWE, when he said he never would, to not only have one more WrestleMania moment, but to live up to his vow that he will never be pathetic again.

At WrestleMania: Bret "The Hitman" Hart versus Vince McMahon

Phenom mind games; Sheamus hunts The Game
(Unified Tag Team Title Match) ShoMiz vs. D-Generation X

D-Generation-X reformed, minus the D-X mascot, in order to take back their Unified Tag Team Titles, which would symbolize that Shawn Michaels will end the streak. But distractions, obsessions, and the awesomeness of The Miz, cost D-X the titles yet again. It was Deja Vu as Shawn Michaels remained seated in the ring with an agitated look, as Triple-H looked on in disbelief.

This match wasn't so much of a title match, but of a showcasing of what is to come at WrestleMania. Shawn Michaels was covered in a jackknife pin by The Miz, after being distracted by The Undertaker looking down from the titantron. Afterwards, Triple-H was ambused by Sheamus. Now, we know that Shawn Michaels will have his rematch against Taker at 'Mania, but where does Sheamus come in?

Sheamus did what many though was impossible, best John Cena for the WWE Championship at such an early stage in his career. He'd managed to sneak by some successful title defenses against Cena and Orton, but the Elimination Chamber was a different story. Sheamus managed to outlast the competition until he was the last of three competitors remaining inside the satanic structure. Almost eliminating John Cena from the match, Sheamus was pedigreed and eliminated by Triple-H instead. It is obvious that Sheamus wants to settle the score at WrestleMania, which would be another case of Pro vs. Rookie.

RAW Results: 2/22/10 - Three Matches WrestleMania Bound

Chris Jericho, Still Saving Us

At the top of the RAW program, we were not introduced to some inane guest hosts or to the new WWE Champion, Justin Roberts proudly announced the new World Heavyweight Champion, Chris Jericho. Each and every week, Chris Jericho enters the ring with an antagonized look on his face, but the walls of Jericho have been torn down and rebuilt with the fortitude and exuberance that being a sixth-time World Champion can bring. His sprightliness was that of a child going to Disneyland, (hoisting the WHT high) "I'm going to WRESTLEMANIA!"

The Indianapolis arena, along with wrestling fans around the world, were joyous of the crowning of a new World Heavyweight Champion, as the crowds chanted "Y2J, Y2J, Y2J!" Chris Jericho roared through the WWE Kingdom as the new World Heavyweight Champion and that he was going to WrestleMania. The celebration ended when Edge surprised Jericho with a spear.

"Hey Chris, you're going to WrestleMania... against.... ME!!!!!" - Royal Rumble Winner Edge challenging WHC, Chris Jericho

Chris Jericho, despite his campaigns of saving only himself, Chris Jericho saved the wrestling fans from a mundane match between Edge and the robotic Batista.

WrestleMania: World Heavyweight Championship Match - Chris Jericho defending against Edge

Shawn Michaels makes a deal with God, and the Demon

When Shawn Michaels won the Slammy Award for Best Match of the Year, he challenged the Undertaker to a rematch. People claim that Michaels-Taker was the greatest match in WrestleMania History - Possibly of all time... but it wasn't the perfect match. In Shawn Michaels mind, it was nearly perfect and he made one mistake - JUST ONE! That one mistake cost Michaels everything.

After WrestleMania 25, Shawn left the company on a hiatus and was brought back half a year later to reform D-Generation-X. Yet, defeating numerous opponents and capturing the Unified Tag Team titles alongside Triple-H could not fill the void. Just one mistake cost his sanity.

Michaels pleaded for The Undertaker to accept his challenge, but he said no. Michaels then vowed to win the Royal Rumble in order to challenge Undertaker at WrestleMania for the World Heavyweight Title... but he lost. Next, Michaels pleaded with Teddy Long to be placed in the SmackDown Chamber so that he can win and defend the World Heavyweight title against The Undertaker at WrestleMania... but he said no. The obsession of facing the Undertaker cost D-X the tag titles and his mental state of mind. Then all at once it clicked into his mind, if Undertaker wouldn't accept, then he would cost Undertaker what he held most dear, the Holy Grail, the World Heavyweight Championship. On Sunday, Michaels entered the chamber from beneath, super kicking Taker and costing him the title.

"For every action there must be a re-action. With regard to Undertaker, I'm not just hoping for a reaction, I'm counting on it." - Shawn Michaels speaking of his actions against Undertaker

After giving up everything into this obsession, Undertaker accepted on one condition. HBK must put something at stake, and just claiming his soul is not enough. If Michaels loses against The Undertaker at WrestleMania, his career is over. Shawn Michaels clarified, if he cannot defeat Taker at WrestleMania, then he has no career and accepted Undertaker's conditions.

WrestleMania: Career vs. The Streak - Shawn Michaels versus Undertaker: The Rematch

Batista defending against John Cena, what about Sheamus?

"Add me to the list. Add me right there with Bret Hart to the list of people that Vince McMahon has screwed." Cena speaking out against Vince McMahon's actions at Elimination Chamber.

Right after winning the WWE Championship inside a grueling elimination chamber, John Cena was forced to defend the title against Batista. John Cena claims that he got screwed over by Vince McMahon, but as McMahon has stated, it was business. A few weeks ago, McMahon made a business deal with Batista to help him out with Bret Hart, and in return he could have a World Title shot at anytime. John Cena made it personal when he tried saving Bret from McMahon and Batista. Batista fired back by attacking Cena, and last week, John Cena made it even more personal by telling Batista if he wanted some, come get some. It was just business, Batista took Cena's words to heart and simply decided to target Cena at his most vulnerable.

McMahon stated that two people lost the WWE Title that night, and if Cena couldn't defeat his opponent tonight then the title rematch would be given to Sheamus. John Cena was scheduled to fight none-other than the WWE Champion, Batista. Which was really an asinine thing to do seeing as Batista should rightfully defend the WWE Title against both Sheamus and John Cena.

The main event lasted no more than a cup of coffee, as Batista blatantly disqualified himself with a low blow to John Cena. He then started clapping, as if congratulating him for becoming the next contender for the WWE Title at WrestleMania. Afterwards, Batista attacked John Cena with several chair shots to the back, while referees were too afraid to stand near a ravaging Animal.

WrestleMania: WWE Championship Match: Batista defending against John Cena (maybe...)

Elimination Chamber: WWE Champion not in Elimination Chamber

John Cena forced into immediate title defense; Batista New WWE Champion.

Over and again we are reminded that only two men in history have successfully defended their titles inside the Elimination Chamber: Triple-H and John Cena. What kind of match can you expect when both of these men are locked inside the same chamber seeking to become the WWE Champion? Will the Celtic Warrior be added to that list, or will he become another victim of the "Chamber of Horrors," as Triple-H has aptly named.

The WWE Champion, Sheamus, and Kofi Kingston started the match, followed by Triple-H, Randy Orton, Ted DiBiase Jr., and John Cena. Prior to setting foot inside the chamber, Kofi kept one eye behind his back for any unsuspecting attackers, in regards to Edge stealing his spot in last year's Elimination Chamber match. Kofi managed to outlast the 5 minute mark against Sheamus, who has been known to make short work of his opponents; allowing for another superstar to enter the fray. Yet, at about the 23 minute mark, Kofi was literally placed into a tight situation when his head was shoved in between the chains of the chamber's walls and was brutally punished by both Orton and DiBiase. Despite the situation, Kofi managed to strike back by eliminating an unsuspecting DiBiase with Trouble in Paradise kick. Shortly afterwards, Kofi would suffer a Celtic Cross pin from Sheamus, thus, eliminating him from the match.

Randy Orton and DiBiase worked together for the most part, despite on going deterioration within the Legacy faction. However, the same mistakes that D-X undergoes during these type of matches, led to neither member of Legacy from leaving the chamber with the strap. Cody Rhodes came "to the rescue" with a lead pipe he slipped into the chamber. DiBiase used the pipe to strike Cena from executing the Attitude Adjustment on Orton, but instead of pinning Cena, DiBiase hooked the leg of Orton for the first elimination of the night. Maybe Cody Rhodes just needs to stop helping, because this is the third time that his "help" has cost Orton the title.

Unlike other superstars, Sheamus has had a lot to prove being the company's top champion; but WWE has done a poor job of building Sheamus as its champion. Sheamus' Title win over Cena at TLC 2009, was a poorly executed, lackluster, title match. The only reason that the match received the recognition that it did was due to the shock factor. In addition, Sheamus, since becoming champion, has fought powerhouse superstars like John Cena and Randy Orton, but always won via disqualification. Even his matches with Evan Bourne weakened his championship status, because, before being brutally beaten down, Bourne came close to pinning the champion. As for this match, it was make or break for the Celtic Warrior, and after eliminating Kofi Kingston, only Cena and Triple-H remained. Sheamus almost came close to eliminating John Cena with the Celtic Cross, and it would have been a major notch in his WWE belt, but he was silenced by, behind-the-scenes mentor, Triple-H; which, if captioned, would read "You're good, just not WrestleMania good."

Up to this point, the RAW Elimination Chamber was great, but what should have been the climax between the only two men in Elimination Chamber history to retain their titles, was wearisome. But what can you expect from a confrontation that has been dragged out for five years. Not letting Sheamus eliminate John Cena turned out to be a fatal mistake for Triple-H, as he lifelessly tapped out to Cena's STF.

Since WrestleMania 21, John Cena has always been inserted into the title picture, either as a defending champion or a contender; and it would appear that WrestleMania XXVI would be no different, until Mr. McMahon showed up. Vince congratulated Cena for winning the WWE Championship and that he would be headlining WrestleMania; that is if he could successfully defend the title against Batista, which would take place immediately. Sound familiar, because it should? Because when John Cena successfully defended his WWE Title inside the Elimination Chamber match at New Year's Revolution 2006, Edge cashed in his MitB briefcase for an immediate title shot which bought him his first WWE Title. Five years and 7 more World Titles later, John Cena's second Elimination Chamber ended the same way, with an immediate title defense which crowned Batista as the new WWE Champion in an astonishing 32 seconds.

Within the first 40 minutes of the pay-per-view, the fans witnessed Sheamus losing the WWE Title, John Cena winning the chamber along with the WWE Title, and then Batista beating Cena for the WWE Title right afterwards. Honestly, the storyline with Bret Hart and Vince McMahon, along with the rivalry between Batista and John Cena, should not need the WWE Title to be at stake. Bret Hart and Vince can have a street fight and settle the whole thing; Batista and Cena could have found another way to settle the issue without sucking the prestige out of the WWE Title. Batista, for lack of a better rant, is the most accident prone wrestler that the WWE has to offer. Have WWE forgotten about Extreme Rules 2009, Batista's steel cage match against Orton for the WWE Title? Batista injured himself halfway through the match, won the title, and was stripped of it the following night, as it was staged as a beat down by Legacy. The ending of the match, along with the "shocker" of Batista swooping in just left a bad taste in my mouth.

SmackDown Results: 2/5/10

Opportunity by Elimination

Chris Jericho's dream of winning the Rumble and headlining WrestleMania was taken away by a returning Edge. The words, "I Have NOTHINHG!" echoed throughout the FedExForum arena. There is no one better in the WWE, I feel, that can deliver on a promo with such life, passion, and hatred. You may beg to differ. You may have a list of people that can who are still with the company. I ask you, when was the last time they cut such a promo?

Chris Jericho barged into Teddy Long's office to find the 2010 Royal Rumble Winner, Edge. He attributes his return to Jericho, "You gave me the strength to come back... You created a monster." The best possible WrestleMania match is to have Chris Jericho face off against Edge. They have enough to feud over. During Jericho's Slammy victory speech seven weeks ago, he made light of Edge's injury, as if it were a punch line.

Edge recovered from a torn Achilles tendon; doctors were unsure whether he'd ever be able to compete again. Edge vowed, after missing two WresleManias, that he wouldn't miss a third. Edge's first night back on SmackDown meant only one thing, the return of the Cutting Edge, with special guest, the World's Champion The Undertaker. Except it wasn't Taker who showed, but Jericho and eventually the Straight-Edge Society.

C.M. Punk and Chris Jericho may have overbearing domineering views on the outcome of the Elimination Chamber, but they still have to go through the Demon of Death Valley to achieve that boast.

Whoever does come out the Elimination Chamber may have to face The Ultimate Opportunist come WrestleMania.

Potential Contenders

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.1
Triple-Threat: Kane vs. Drew McIntyre vs. John Morrison

Who to pick in a match where you have the big red monster, the chosen Scotsman, and the Guru of Greatness? Well in order to determine that let us break it down.

Kane: The younger brother of The Undertaker, a multi-time World Champion, the only man to ever face the Undertaker twice at WrestleMania, are certainly some impressive accolades for Kane to find himself facing off with his brother once again. But is round 3 really something that the fans want?

The history between these two brothers call out for another encounter, just not at WrestleMania. The last time these two fought at WrestleMania was 2004, The Undertaker had been buried by Kane, and was looking for payback. The highly anticipated rematch turned out to be more spectacle than anything worth remembering. So despite the history, I wouldn't recommend Taker-Kane III at 'Mania XXVI.

Drew McIntyre: A man who has been undefeated in singles competition, has never been pinned, won the I-C Title on his first attempt, and successfully defended it on numerous occasions against the former champion. In addition, it took not one, but both members of D-X to eliminate him from the Royal Rumble.

Drew McIntyre is truly rising as a serious threat for anyone that stands in his way, but is a World Title opportunity all that smart?

WWE placed the WWE Title on Sheamus, and the fans are not fully behind the push. Sure it shows WWE's willingness to push younger wrestlers, but, most importantly, wrestlers need to be built up properly. For a while, Randy Orton was unmatched with his intensity in the ring; but, with rise of such young stars in Sheamus and McIntyre, there is a change occurring in the WWE.

McIntyre is on the right path, what he needs right now is not a World Title Shot, but another competitor for the I-C Title.

John Morrison: A tag team strategist, multi-time tag team champion, three-time I-C Champion, and truly a man beyond good and evil as he can handle the role of heel and fan favorite with ease.

Ever since Jeff Hardy's departure from the company, SmackDown has been in need of a fan favorite to lead as the face of the brand. However, WWE feels that Rey Mysterio is the man for the job, but I beg to differ.

Mysterio may be just as great with the fans as a John Cena, but he is prone to injury. And to give him a World Title, and suffer an injury would not bod well for the company.

As for John Morrison, he is truly an amazing specimen of talent, charisma, and physical fitness. He has proven to be championship material: with successful runs as WWE and World Tag Team Champions, along with a memorable I-C Title run.

The Triple Threat went great. Morrison's pinfall victory over Kane, not only asserts his dominance but it protects McIntyre from incurring a pinfall loss.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.2
R-Truth vs. Mike Knox

R-Truth has been steadily rising with some big wins over Jericho, escalating even further this past Sunday. At the Royal Rumble, R-Truth eliminated both the Big Show and Mark Henry, the two biggest threats in the match.

I'm still not on board with this push, but after taking out Mike Knox to earn an entry spot in the Elimination Chamber, I cannot deny R-Truth.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.3
Batista vs. C.M. Punk

C.M. Punk has lately come off as an anti-Christ figure. Not saying that Punk is a demon, but he twists the words of Jesus to maintain his ego. He preached to his society, "There is no you, without me." Shouldn't that saying go the other way around, methinks?

This was in regards to his qualifying match with Batista, mostly asking for some sort of interference against The Animal.

However, the match ended on a count-out because Batista simply counted himself out. This could have something to do with what took place after RAW went off the air. John Cena finally did come to Bret's aid - even though who needed it then? - and Batista walked away. He then came charging back and pummeled John Cena, and Batista PowerBombing him through steel steps.

Could Mr. McMahon have enlisted Batista as the muscles? Is Batista starting a feud with John Cena? Possibly act as surrogates for Mr. McMahon and Bret Hart? Hopefully not the latter, but the first part sounds ridiculously entertaining. It'd be nice to see the two biggest, and most overrated superstars duke it out at WrestleMania XXVI.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.4
Chris Jericho vs. Matt Hardy

Chris Jericho, who said that he qualifies for nothing, found himself in an easy fight against Matt Hardy. Interestingly enough that Jericho and Matt where both in the cab with Gregory Helms before he got arrested, and they now found each other contending for an entry spot.

Matt Hardy attempted a Twist of Fate, but Jericho evaded with assist from the ropes. Jericho struck with the Codebreaker to win.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.5
Rey Mysterio vs. Dolph Ziggler

A revival match from last summer's Intercontinental Title feud, Dolph and Rey this time fought for a richer prize, an entry into the Elimination Chamber.

Dolph Ziggler had some close calls, and surely does have signs of perfection. But is the heart of the underdog greater than perfectly executed moves?

Dolp Ziggler, once vying for the I-C Title, is now shuffled in the mid card scene. Especially after losing to Morrison in a series of title matches, Ziggler is going through a dry spell. And for a gimmick that should be outspoken, he's awfully quiet.

Yet, it should say something for WWE management to place Ziggler in a contenders qualifier match for the World's Title. But in the end, he was just a stepping stone for Mysterio to once again be tossed into the title picture.

Elimination Chamber Match Participants for World Heavyweight Title

Defending Champion: The Undertaker
Participants: John Morrison, R-Truth, C.M. Punk, Chris Jericho, and Rey Mysterio

Glama-Feat for WrestleMania?

Perky little Mickie James is complacent with being the new Women's Champion for a fifth time. With months of intense humiliation by the hands of Lay-Cool, the worst is yet to come in the form of The Glamazon.

Entering the Royal Rumble at No. 6, Beth Phoenix eliminated the Great Khali and delivered a vicious clothesline to C.M. Punk before being eliminated. Despite the short run, Glamazon was fighting with grown men, while Mickie was busy with little girls.

But before we can see Beth contend for the Women's Title, Michelle McCool still has her mandatory rematch clause. Oh, and a tag team match.

The women's match was Beth Phoenix and Mickie James against Lay-Cool. Mickie-Beth worked well together for a while, with clean tags an no one-up manships, However, Beth struck Mickie square in the face to let a British-chippy try to score the pinfall. Even after being punched in the face, Mickie still managed to roll up Layla for the win.

Beth Phoenix, despite at times choosing to team with McCool, has no allegiance to Team Lay-Cool.

Yet, with Mickie James and Beth Phoenix having an underlining feud since the start of their trade to SmackDown, I wouldn't be surprised if we witness Beth Phoenix contend for the title at WrestleMania. It would be a women's match worth seeing, and definitely a change of pace from the last three playboy/Ms. WrestleMania failures.

Royal Rumble: EDGE Returns

The Ultimate Rated-R-eturn

Shawn Michaels, John Cena, and Chris Jericho were the last three remaining, but No. 29 came as a shock to everyone. The energy of the Philips Arena exploded to insurmountable heights as the Rated-R Superstar made his triumphant return after a career ending torn Achilles tendon.

None was more surprised than his former tag team partner, Chris Jericho. Weeks before Night of Champions, Chris Jericho confronted Edge and publicized that he would find a new partner who was better than Edge in every way, later revealed to be The Big Show. Chris Jericho mostly aired out Edge's list of injuries and addressed him as the weak link. Edge stated when he comes back, things would be different.

Back then, I knew Edge meant that he would be turning face, and would start a feud with Chris Jericho. Seeing as he eliminated Chris Jericho, the feud has picked up where it last left off.

A fan in the audience held up an acronym sign with the letters WWE forming the statement, "We Want Edge." He's been seven months removed, but he sealed his return with a Royal Rumble victory by last eliminating John Cena.

With pledges of straight-edge lifestyles, rematches with a Deadman, and selfish dreams of headlining the superbowl of the WWE, EDGE fulfilled his promise to the WWE Universe of returning to become a champion once again. EDGE is "The One" to headline WrestleMania, now the question remains, which Championship will be go after?

The Straight-Edge Society Crushed by Triple-H

C.M. Punk, on the verge of greatness, looked to be "The One" to outshine all the other star studded Rumblers. Punk recently trying to convert the masses to the Straight-Edge lifestyle took his vengeance on the likes of Evan Bourne, Dolph Ziggler, and JTG. Yet, luck would have it that the next entry would be The Great Khali.

Khali has always been considered a favorite to win the Royal Rumble, but for the past three-years, and this year makes it four, Khali has always made very little-to no impact at the Rumble.

C.M. Punk gained two more successful eliminations in the form of Beth Phoenix and Zack Ryder, bringing the number to 5. But Punk was eliminated by Triple-H after a failed attempt at the GTS. Which is sad, because I was rooting for a Straight-Edge victory.

A Royal "Glamazon" Entry

The following entry really surprised me, entering at No. 6 was Beth Phoenix; and before she even entered through the ropes she eliminated The Great Khali by locking lips for the distraction.

The Glamazon made her Royal Rumble debut and became the second woman in the history of the WWE to compete. Her predecessor, the Ninth Wonder of the World, Chyna; who was the most dominate women's wrestler of her time. And nothing would be more impressive than for these two dominates to one day clash in the ring. However, ten years to late for a match, Beth Phoenix has been given an opportunity to possibly surpass Chyna as she escalates in the WWE.

Sadly, Phoenix tried to eliminate C.M. Punk, but was struck with the GTS and tossed out of the ring instead.

What's Next for Legacy?

"It's a New Day" by Adelitas Way sounded at No. 10 to reveal star of The Marine 2, Ted DiBiase. Teddy went right to work on Triple-H with the help of Drew McIntyre. Earlier today at the aftermath of the WWE Title Match, it appears that Legacy has officially ended. Rhodes cost Orton the match, and DiBiase ran to the aid of his partner.

But were these second generation superstars looking to take down their leader? Prior to Orton's match, Rhodes confided in his leader on how DiBiase has been talking about winning the Royal Rumble and choosing to face off against Orton for the WWE Title. But what shouldn't be a surprise is when DiBiase found Orton, on his way to the ring, to mention how Rhodes is talking about winning and going on to face Sheamus, as if not giving the chance of Orton winning tonight.

Was DiBiase Jr. right about his claim against Rhodes? Cody ran interference in full view of the referee. Rhodes and DiBiase have been running interference in Orton's matches for the better part of two years, Rhodes knew what he was doing. I believe that Rhodes may have grown tired of Orton's obsession with the WWE Title, and for the incident that took place when he RKO'ed his father, The American Dream.

Rhodes and DiBiase were consecutively tossed out by Shawn Michaels, so their dreams of headlining WrestleMania seems highly doubtful at this point. But no worries, there is a possible backlash which will be inflicted by Randy Orton come this Monday Night on RAW.

Awesome United States Fall-Out

Entering in at No. 14, MVP gets knocked out by The Miz at the entrance ramp. It would not be until Miz made his entry at No. 16, that MVP would rush into the ring to eliminate himself and The Miz in 7 seconds. The two traded vicious fists on the outside in regards to their title match earlier.

Business between these two have not slowed down one bit, with Miz defeating MVP in three title matches, it looks to be that we will witness a fourth encounter. This time, MVP won't be playing nice.

A WrestleMania Dream... Dead?

Shawn Michaels entered in the Royal Rumble at No. 18, the same entry he won with in 1996 to headline WrestleMania and realize his dream of becoming the WWE Champion. Yet, Michaels also won the previous Rumble, in 1995, showing that it took Michaels two times to become champion. Michaels told Triple-H prior to this year's Rumble that a rematch between him and Undertaker was meant to be. But after being eliminated by Batista, the No. 18, and a second shot at ending The Undertaker's Streak may not indeed occur.

Batista has warned Michaels to stay out of his way come Royal Rumble, because Taker's Title belonged to him. And without Triple-H to have his back against Batista, Michaels was helpless.

Michaels tried recreating Royal Rumble Magic, but the moves he tried belong in the past for a reason. Michaels tried to take out Big Show with the headlock that Chris Benoit used to win in 2004; and when tossed over the rope, shades of a '95 HBK touched one foot on the ground, and then the other, never both at the same time. Both moves attempted, and both moves ineffective.

HBK was dead serious about winning the Rumble, when he surprised Triple-H with Sweet Chin Music. The crowd was awed and inspired by Michaels' attitude that the Rumble is every man for himself. Michaels' other eliminations included Carlito, Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase Jr., John Morrison, and, with the help of Triple-H, Drew McIntyre.

Michaels made it to the last four competitors in the match, along with Batista, John Cena, and Edge. Michaels focused on attacking both Batista and John Cena in succession. Striking with the Inverted leg drop, the diving elbow drop, and Sweet Chin Music a piece, Michaels was closing in on his rematch with UT.

But Batista killed that dream, and Michaels had a meltdown as he attacked two referees before heading back to the locker room.

Triple-H mentioned earlier that if this rematch was meant to be, "That's why I know you'll find another way." McMahon will not grant Michaels a rematch, but after losing the Royal Rumble, he will indeed have to find another way.

SmackDown Results: 1/15/10

Chris Jericho, Baddest Man?

Jericho made his less than triumphant return to SmackDown after failing, for the third time, to get his spot on RAW. So what's next for the most profound wrestler in all of Sports Entertainment? Bad mouthing the guy who punched you in the jaw for starters. Jericho called Mike Tyson a washed up, drunken, ex-champion. He blurted this out with full knowledge that Mike Tyson was not in attendance, but he might have bee at home laughing over the swelled jaw.

Jericho's challenge for the night was the Guru of Greatness John Morrison, in a rematch from their unfinished business over the summer. Yet, how come every time these two hash it out in the ring, someone distracts John Morrison? Last time it was Shelton Benjamin and this time its the I-C Champion Drew McIntyre. During the Walls of Jericho, Morrison willed his way to the bottom rope out of hatred for the Scotsman, taunting Morrison with the I-C strap. Despite Morrison breaking away from the Walls, he fell to the Code Breaker. As for the New 'Baddest Man on the Planet,' welcome back to Friday Nights.

Saving Private "Trevor"

It's been two weeks since C.M. Punk has vowed to save the world with the pledge of Straight-Edge for All, and he has already "saved" one member of the WWE Universe. This week he saves another, by the name of Trevor. Anyone notice how each person he saves has a full head of hair and are well-built? Well... that's because they are all wrestlers.

Punk's gimmick has really gone over, despite many people getting upset over the similarity of Punk raising a cult, or tarnishing the pledge of the United States. Seeing as a lot of people hate C.M. Punk, then he must be doing something right.

Worst Concept in WWE

The worst concept in the WWE is the Fatal Four-way Tag Team match, which allows only two competitors at a time. That's right, only two people are allowed to compete at a time while the other two teams have to force a tag if someone ever stumbles into their corner. Who the hell approved of this? If anything, four competitors should be allowed at a time, at least things would be interesting, and I don't know, maybe have more than one referee to regulate the action from different angles.

This contenders match, to determine who will face D-Generation-X for the Unified Tag Team Titles, was complete and utter garbage. And I know WWE was upset seeing Jeff Hardy on the Jan. 4th edition of TNA, but to pair Matt with The Great Khali? No words or amount of blog space can express my anger over this. Cryme Tyme had a title shot against JeriShow, and failed at SummerSlam; and Hart Dynasty lost to D-X on Christmas Day. Luckily the onslaught was minimized to where C.M. Punk and Luke Gallows picked up the win. Not only is Punk gaining a following, literally, but now he has a shot to make history by becoming the first-ever "Straight-Edge" Unified Tag Team Champions in the WWE.

The Omen

The Undertaker sent a message last week to both Batista and Rey Mysterio, the two possible contenders for the World Heavyweight Championship. Undertaker shows little concern for their steel cage match, because, in his mind, no matter who wins, he will still be the champion. Then he brings up a question that the fans have been dying to learn the answer to, the Rematch against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania. Seventeen men have faced him, and they all fell. One man chose to face him a second time, failed, and was content... that would be Kane. Yet, one man was more glorious than the rest and almost won... but in the end he still failed. On Monday, we find out the answer.

Beth Chooses a Side

For several weeks, both Mickie James and Beth Phoenix have shared sneak attacks, two weeks ago, Beth put Mick in the Glam Slam, while last week, Mick got Beth with the Mick-Kick. This my followers is what we call the rubber match (new phrase I learned and I will use it as much as possible until I get sick and tired of it, so bare with me).

Beth did not even want to wait for the bell, she just got in there and started throwing punches. These two have a long standing feud, and if anyone ever has the pleasure, these two put on great matches. Why? Because they trained to be wrestlers! They were not models contacted by WWE, "Hey, do you want to wrestle?"

Beth Phoenix eventually placed Mickie James in... wait for it.... the tree of "Whoa'.... that's for Matt Striker in case he reads this. But before Mickie could get a chance to unhook her legs, Beth failed in adhering to the 5-count and got herself disqualified. Afterwards, team Lay-Cool showed up to pick up the scraps and place her in the Styles-Plex *cough* I mean the Faith Breaker! Well... how will Mickie retaliate next week? And why Beth? Mickie has no one else to have her back seeing as Maria has a gig with Celebrity Apprentice. Didn't she just return?

Ziggler-Kane III

That's right, another hair-raising battle between the greased up cheerleader against Uncle Fester. WWE realized that Dolph Ziggler was so not ready for the I-C strap, seeing as they made him lose on 20-something occasions, and the belt has passed 2-times since staking his claim. This is pretty much WWE going back to formula, build him from the ground up, again.

Seeing as Kane has nothing better to do than being tossed over the rope by Ezekiel Jackson over on ECW, why not make him the yard stick for Ziggler's success? In their first encounter, Ziggler failed to beat the clock with a sleeper/body scissors take down; yet, after the match, Ziggler struck with the Zig-Zag. In the second match up, Ziggler won the match via a count out on the part of Kane. However, this week yielded a different result, Kane chokeslamed Ziggler for the win. Way to go Kane, you beat Dolph Ziggler. *two slow claps*

Mysterio Falls... Over!

Throughout the whole night, everyone kept focusing their attention on Rey Mysterio. Can he do it? Do you think you can do it? Do you have a shot of being the World Champion for the second time? Aren't you a little small to be competing in the WWE, the land of the giant superstars?

Well, I for one believe that Mysterio is too small to be competing here, but I also knew he would win. Why? Because he is short and fast! All you have to do in a Steel Cage Match is to escape the cage to win the match, you don't necessarily have to pin or submit your opponent.

Batista is too big and clunky to ever escape over the top of the cage so his best bet would be to pin Mysterio in the center on the ring.

Mysterio did attempt to use Batista has a stepping stone, quite literally, in order to jump out of the cage, but he would continue to be pulled in. Batista's hubris was his downfall yet again, instead of taunting your opponent, go for the cover, and then gloat. Mysterio did manage to go over the roof of the cage one last time, and left a parting gift to Batista, a drop kick to the steel door over Batista's face on the way down for the victory.

That's right, Rey Mysterio is the #1 Contender for Undertaker's World Heavyweight Championship! Just maybe, Mysterio will defying the odds and become the World Heavyweight Champion. But then again... Undertaker's not to worried about the luchador, only with the answer he has for Shawn Michaels this Monday Night on RAW.

SmackDown Results: 1/8/10

Batista Walks Alone

Since Bragging Rights, Batista has been coasting through the WWE filled with greed and anger. Last week, Batista had multiple opportunities to put away his opponent to become the #1 contender, but, instead, he chose to taunt his former friend, Rey Mysterio, as the clocked ticked away in the Beat the Clock Challenge. Since Batista interfered with Rey Mysterio World Heavyweight Title Match against The Undertaker, Mysterio cost Batista his shot at the Undertaker by pulling the referee out of the ring, thus, expiring the time. Both Batista and Rey Mysterio, thanks to the official consultant of SmackDown Vickie Guerrero, will go one-on-one to determine the #1 contender.

But what Batista speaks is true, Teddy Long is quick to restart a match that sees Batista as the winner, but doesn't even lift a finger when Batista is on the losing end. Which begs the question, which side is Teddy Long on? At the start of September, Long was manipulated by the probation placed under McMahon to have Taker 'tap out' to C.M. Punk.

As for tonight, Rey Mysterio has been the storied underdog, the man no one believed would make it in a business with musclebound giants like The Great Khali and Batista, but can he upset the critics once again, and become a 2-time World Heavyweight Champion?

Ziggler Topples Kane

The opening match featured Dolph Ziggler once against taking on the Big Red Monster Kane, a rematch from their encounter last week. Ziggler failed to advance in the Beat the Clock Challenge last week as his Headlock/Body Scissors take-down was ineffective in tapping out Kane, but what would Ziggler's best strategic ploy be?

First off, Ziggler has to stop thinking that his moves are perfection, because he obviously cannot steal the gimmick from the late Curt Henning, or execute them the way Curt did. When he connected with the Zig-Zag, Ziggler felt that he should have been awarded the win, and overreacted when Kane kicked out. Never expect an easy match in the WWE, because nothing is handed to you. While fighting in the WWE, you have to scratch and claw your way to the top. With his numerous failed attempts at capturing the I-C Title, Ziggler has not been bringing his A-game when it comes to matches.

However, Ziggler did win the match via count-out, but what happens if the next time Teddy Long changes it to a no DQ Match?

Jericho, Still the Best

The following was a six-man tag team match featuring Chris Jericho and The Hart Dynasty against R-Truth and Cryme Tyme.

When told to make an impact two weeks ago, The Hart Dynasty targeted Chris Jericho. So was he upset? Jericho understands that in order to make an impact you have to attack the top performer; so no, he was not upset... he was actually quite flattered.

The Harts saw what happened to Bret on Monday Night, and they stated that it was despicable, and it would never happen to them; because they're better than that. Are they really? The Hart Dynasty were seconds away from capturing the Unified Tag Team Titles from D-X just two weeks ago. Smith has the power, and Kidd the speed, while Natalya acts as the mouthpiece, but as for being 'better than that,' they are far off. It's a lot of pressure to put on these three young superstars, because they have decided to carry themselves on the family legacy. It's doubtful that Bret Hart will act as their mentor, seeing as he's turned face; but Chris Jericho, also a fellow graduate of the Dungeon, would make an excellent teacher.

The match went fairly well, R-Truth and Cryme Tyme brought in a lot of hard hitting strikes, and flashy maneuvers, but the Harts held up their own too. Smith slightly tilted the rope to knock off Gaspard over the top, and Natalya kicked him when he was down. Then the momentum shifted slightly when JTG almost got the pin over Jericho, but with no Gaspard to have his back, Jericho executed the original Walls of Jericho, with his knee over the face of JTG to get a submission victory.

A New Dawn, A New Salvation

Last week, C.M. Punk asked everyone in the audience and everyone at home to raise their hand and take the pledge of Straight-Edge, and vowed that he would turn people even if force is necessary. Today was the first night of salvation, as Punk has chosen to save one individual from the audience. James, just a regular guy to you and me, became a symbol of hope for a new generation of a straight-edge society. James hesitated, but who wouldn't when giving up addictive vices such as alcohol and drugs? But James accepted and pledged his heart to Straight-Edge. As a symbol of his devotion, Luke Gallows and C.M. Punk shaved his head. The hair is said to be the chains of his addiction, and when shaving his hair, he was actually releasing the vices from his life.

Matt Hardy Fails

In his first singles match, Luke Gallows made short work of Matt Hardy. Hardy attempted to amount an offense but he was unable to overpower Luke Gallows. Plus it doesn't hurt when C.M. Punk provides the distraction to be struck with the Gallows Pole. This was Luke's first singles match, so a congrats are in order.

Michelle McCool's Offering

In the Divas' Match of the night, Layla took on The Glamazon, Beth Phoenix, in what appeared to be a one-sided match. Layla, after escaping the ring with her life, was tossed back into the ring by McCool, who, after being challenged by Beth mid-match, looked to quench Phoenix's rage. Layla did provide some offense, by throwing some kicks, and wild punches to the head; but Phoenix executed the GlamSlam to end the match.

McCool may feel that she's satisfied Phoenix, but Beth will not stop until she's the Women's Champion.

Don't Mess with Mick James, B---h!

When McCool and Layla ambushed Phoenix after the match, it was Mickie James who came to the rescue and cleaned house. Beth Phoenix, appreciative of the assist went to go shake her hand, but instead she came face first with the Mick-Kick. Payback for placing Mickie James in the GlamSlam, last week.

Undertaker Sends a Message

The match between Batista and Rey Mysterio was full of surprises and superior offense. Batistia using his mass to overpower the much smaller Mysterio, while the Master of the 619 uses his entire body in an effort to keep the Animal off his feet.

Rey Mysterio, no doubt robbed Batista of his win last week, but Batista taught him a valuable lesson at Bragging Rights, there is no such thing as friendship when it comes to the World Title. In the match Mysterio attempted a Frog Splash but he bounced off of Batista, proving that Mysterio will throw his full body in danger for a shot at the title.

Batista's arrogance is his undoing, he connected with a match-winning spear, but instead of going for the cover he decided to flex his muscles to the audience. There is no time for that, he should have gone straight for the cover.

Yet, as Batista set up for the Batista Bomb, the bells chimed and the lights went out. Yes, that is the signal for the Undertaker. But, no Undertaker appeared, just the bodies of Batista and Rey Mysterio layed out. Alright, so the match continues and Rey sets up for the 619, *chimes* once again the signal for The Undertaker. But once again, no Undertaker, just the bodies aching in the ring. Undertaker's message is clear, abandon the pursuit of the World Heavyweight Championship, because it won't end well.