Recapping American wrestling since 2013. Not only following the current stuff in WWE, Impact and ROH but also going back in time and doing stuff from back then as well.
Antonio Cesaro guests on commentary for the next match.
The Great Khali last eliminates Wade Barrett in a 20-man over-the-top-rope battle royal to become #1 contender for the WWE United States Championship and face Antonio Cesaro for the title next week on Main Event. After the match, Cesaro extends his hand, and The Great Khali shakes it.
Backstage, Matt Striker interviews The Great Khali, but Antonio Cesaro attacks Khali from behind. Cesaro says something in German, but Khali fires back and Cesaro retreats. Khali picks up the WWE United States Championship and says "Happy new year...see you next week."
Before the next match, Heath Slater tries to speak, but his throat is sore. Drew McIntyre says all the biggest bands perform on New Year's Eve, and that there is no bigger band than 3MB (Slater, McIntyre, Jinder Mahal). Unfortunately, Slater has lost his voice. Jinder Mahal says that jealously and envy come with the territory when you rock as hard as 3MB, and that is why Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel targeted Slater's larynx. McIntyre says that Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel cost them a United States title shot and are ruining their careers. Jinder Mahal says they are 3MB, and you can never stop rock.
Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel beat 3MB (Drew McIntyre and Jinder Mahal).
SmackDown General Manager Booker T tells us: Don't Try This.
Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel beat The Prime Time Players (Darren Young and Titus O'Neil). During the match, definitions are given for the words "brash," (arrogant) "aspirations," (goals) and "astute" (crafty or intelligent).
JBL talks about how he came up with the idea of Tribute To The Troops while traveling to Afghanistan to meet the members of the United States military who were on the front line.
Ryback is this week's Saturday Morning Slam.
Ryback beats Robbie Mathews and Yanni Greeco in a 2-on-1 handicap match.
Before the next match, Ricardo Rodriguez says that Alberto Del Rio is more deserving of the main event that Ryback, and that he has readied a seventeen-minute video package of Alberto Del Rio's accomplishments. Unfortunately for Ricardo, Ryback's entrance cuts that video package short. When Del Rio shows up, he chews out Ryback for cutting his video package short with his entrance before saying he will teach him a lesson tonight.
Ryback beats Alberto Del Rio.
Backstage, Matt Striker interviews Ryback, who says that he has come this far believing in survival of the fittest and that there can only be one on the top of the food chain. To beat The Shield (Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns), he and Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane) must think like The Shield and act like a pack, working, breathing and feeding together. When asked if this is possible, Ryback repeats the word "yes."
Before the next match, Jinder Mahal says that 3MB are on two hours earlier than normal, and Heath Slater says it is so that Ion Television can air the December 12th benefit concert for the Hurricane Sandy victims at Madison Square Garden. Slater then asks why 3MB were not invited to perform, and Drew McIntyre mentions that WWE is sponsoring The Rolling Stones live in concert this Saturday and that they weren't asked to perform there, either. Jinder then also mentioned that WWE added Lady Gaga and Bruce Springsteen, and says 3MB should perform regardless. Slater then says that 3MB will then preview their debut single, but their preview is cut short by Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel. Kidd tells them to stop due to their ears being almost ready to bleed, and Justin Gabriel says that 3MB are not even qualified to be the janitors of Madison Square Garden, let alone perform, and that The Rolling Stones are the greatest band of our time. Kidd says it is time for 3MB to stop pretending they know anything about music and face them right now. Heath is not impressed, and if McIntyre says they want to fight them, they will have to face all three of them. Kidd and Gabriel accept the challenge.
3MB (Heath Slater, Drew McIntyre, Jinder Mahal) beat Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel in a 3-on-2 handicap match.
It is announced that Cody Rhodes is back in action and that next week on Main Event, he will face Kane.
SmackDown General Manager Booker T guests on commentary for this week, and Darren Young guests on commentary for the next match.
Sheamus beats Titus O'Neil.
Backstage, Matt Striker interviews John Cena. Cena advertises his match with Heath Slater for later today, and says that he may be facing three men at once, he will be the one man who has his hand held high.
SmackDown General Manager Booker T teaches us how to Spinarooni.
John Cena is this week's Saturday Morning Spotlight.
Layla tells us: Don't Try This - mentioning her MCL and ACL injury from 2011 in the process.
John Cena beats Heath Slater. During the match, referee Scott Armstrong ejects Jinder Mahal and Drew McIntyre from the match for distracting John Cena and getting involved in the match.
It is announced that CM Punk has recently underwent surgery for a partially torn meniscus in Pensacola, Florida, and that the surgery was successful.
Backstage, Josh Mathews interviews Kofi Kingston, who states that everybody has known him as the guy who flies around the ring and beats people up while smiling and having a great time. When he beat The Miz for the Intercontinental title, it unleashed a more intense side of him, and when Cesaro said he was the greatest champion in WWE history, that intensity took over. Kofi states that he can still go toe-to-toe with anyone and have a good time, but every now and then, a wildcat has to show his teeth and drop that boom. He says that tonight is one of those nights.
We see a video package for Antonio Cesaro.
Lilian Garcia is back as ring announcer after suffering injuries from an accident months ago. It is announced that at TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs, Antonio Cesaro will defend the WWE United States Championship against R-Truth.
Before the next match, Antonio Cesaro says that despite the fans' best effort, he is still the United States Champion after retaining in a Raw Active poll match than the fans hoped he would lose, and says the United States has come to empty hopes and dreams. He says that nobody wants to work anymore and everyone wants everyone else to do the work for them, and that he is still the United States Champion because he works hard. He then goes on to say that he does not hate the fans; he pities them, and he gladly welcomes the "United States" chants because he has proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that these are "The United States of Antonio."
Wade Barrett and R-Truth guest on commentary for the next match.
Kofi Kingston beats Antonio Cesaro by disqualification when Wade Barrett runs into the ring and attacks Kofi but fails. R-Truth then runs into the ring and fights Cesaro. Cesaro rolls out of the ring, then Kofi and R-Truth fend off Barrett. R-Truth says that everybody wants to fight, but he and Kofi bite back. He challenges Cesaro and Barrett to a tag team match against him and Kofi. The challenge is accepted.
Kofi Kingston and R-Truth beat Wade Barrett and Antonio Cesaro after R-Truth gets the hot tag and Kofi hits Cesaro with Trouble In Paradise to allow R-Truth to go for the Sunset Flip for the win. After the match, Matt Striker interviews Kofi, who says that there is a storm coming for Barrett and that he cannot wait to bring the thunder. Striker also interviews R-Truth, who says that the people don't want a chump for the champion; instead, they want the truth, and at TLC, Antonio Cesaro is going to get got.
It is again announced from the office of WWE Chairman Vince McMahon that CM Punk has recently underwent surgery for a partially torn meniscus in Pensacola, Florida, and that the surgery was successful. Because of this, CM Punk will not be able to defend the WWE Championship against Ryback at TLC. However, Ryback does deserve a WWE Championship match against CM Punk and will have the opportunity in the very near future. Therefore, recent events have led him to make the six-man tag team TLC match of Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane) and Ryback vs. The Shield (Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns) that will be decided only via pinfall or submission.
Jinder Mahal beats Ted DiBiase after using DiBiase's momentum against him following a top rope cross body.
Layla teaches us some British slang: Bobbie (a policeman), The Underground (or tubes, which is the subway), lift (an elevator), and loo (a bathroom).
On this week's Video Vault, we see British Superstars throughout history: William Regal, The British Bulldog, Paul Burchill and Wade Barrett.
Wade Barrett is this week's Saturday Morning Slam.
Eve tells us: Don't Try This.
The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) beat Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel.
John Cena announces that next week, he will make his in-ring debut on Saturday Morning Slam. As he makes an open challenge to anyone in the WWE for this match, 3MB (Heath Slater, Drew McIntyre, Jinder Mahal) show up, and Slater accepts his challenge.
Now watch John Cena tell us the chomp is here with Fruity Pebbles!
We see Cody Rhodes via Tout. He wishes Damien Sandow the best of luck in singles competition and says that he cannot wait to resume their tag team mastery.
Before the next match, Damien Sandow says that this moment requires a quote from a true thinker. According to Socrates, the only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance. He calls John Cena a "false idol" and says that his stranglehold of ignorance is about to come to a just and swift end.
John Cena beats Damien Sandow with the STF.
Backstage, Josh Mathews says he is not joined by Damien Sandow, who has left him a note to read in his absence: "The ignoramus reading this statement - and doing so while lacking the proper intonation or penache - does not deserve to share the same oxygen as the great Damien Sandow. Therefore, there will be no interview. Through victory, John Cena and the WWE Universe have proved my point. He is a false idol leading a mindless flock. The day of enlightenment has been postponed due to ignorance. You're welcome."
Antonio Cesaro beats Zack Ryder. After the match, Cesaro says Ryder represents everything wrong with the United States, then states that he is disgusted with the fans. He says that he hates coming to this part of the country, but he has to because he is the United States Champion. Even though he is the champion of an inferior country, he is a superior champion, and his record proves without a shadow of a doubt that he is the greatest champion in WWE history. Suddenly, Kofi Kingston shows up and says the greatest thing about WWE is that when somebody makes an outlandish claim about being the best, they have to back it up. He tells Cesaro he is wrong and challenges him to a match next week on Main Event.
On The Third Degree, the WWE Superstars talk about what they are thankful for.
The Miz hosts a pie eating contest with contestants R-Truth, Santino Marella and Zack Ryder. Santino Marella ends up winning it, buy he ends up being pied by Zack Ryder and R-Truth, which starts a food fight between all three men. Brodus Clay and The Funkadactyls (Cameron and Naomi) interrupt, then Santino collapses.
Antonio Cesaro tells us: Don't Try This.
3MB (Heath Slater and Jinder Mahal) beat The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso).
Before the next match, The Miz is on the microphone, but Dolph Ziggler quickly interrupts. Ziggler says the name of the show is Main Event and that he doesn't understand why Miz is in the ring and not him, for he is the show-stealer, Mr. Money In The Bank, the sole survivor of Survivor Series, and way too big of a star to be standing behind him. He rubs his Survivor Series in further before telling Miz he will be outclassed in every way, for he is Dolph Ziggler and Miz is not. As he says this, a fan yells "You suck!" at Ziggler. Miz thanks the fan for that, then says everything about Ziggler is a lie and that Ziggler stood behind four other Superstars and Vickie Guerrero while he has main evented WrestleMania. Ziggler says all of Miz's accolades have been heard way too many times, but Miz says it is still all true and on record and that he has gotten all of his accomplishments done on his own. He says that history can back him up, but Ziggler says history is history and that Miz is the past while he is the future, and when people look back on this week, history will shine favorably on him. Miz says this week could just as easily be like every other week and that Ziggler could choke as soon as he is handed the keys to the kingdom, and while he is a former WWE Champion, Ziggler is a present and future nothing who will have nothing to show but an ugly broad, a bad teal T-shirt and an ugly hair dye for unsuccessfully cashing in the Money In The Bank briefcase. Ziggler slaps Miz in response, and the next match begins.
Dolph Ziggler beats The Miz with the Zig Zag after Miz runs into an unprotected turnbuckle. After the match, Matt Striker interviews Ziggler, but Ziggler tells him to leave before saying that every single night, he backs up what he says, and that he proved it yet again by beating The Miz tonight. He says he is better than Striker, Miz, and anybody in the locker room, backstage area and the crowd, and he is just getting started. Ziggler tells John Cena he is not done with him by a long shot, and that he will make history when he finishes him and make history out of anyone who faces him.
Wade Barrett beats Justin Gabriel.
Next week: John Cena will make his Main Event debut!
This Friday on SmackDown: Miz TV with special guest John Cena!
Damien Sandow shows up. He says that he can no longer stand by as the people plunge further into the bowels of their own inadequacies and shortcomings, and next week, he will finally get the opportunity to rid WWE of its most offensive delinquent: John Cena. He says that Cena's hypocrisies know no bounds, from his silly hand gestures to his sophomoric prose to his lewd public display of affection from last week, and that this disease will and must be purged by his hand. Therefore, he declares today that Cena is WWE's ultimate false idol.
R-Truth beats William Regal with a roll-up. During the match, R-Truth's invisible friend Little Jimmy gives Regal a hard time.
We see The Miz ham it up in front of a camera behind a green screen.
In this week's Video Vault, we look back on The Awesome Truth (The Miz and R-Truth) taking on The Rock and John Cena at last year's Survivor Series, the Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997, and the history of the Traditional 5-on-5 Survivor Series Match.
Kofi Kingston is this week's Saturday Morning Spotlight.
David Otunga tells us: Don't Try This.
Kofi Kingston beats Zack Ryder. At the beginning of the match, Zack Ryder does not take off his headband, and Kofi blinds him with it. Ryder hands his headband off to Santino Marella before continuing the match, and when Kofi extends his hand in good sportsmanship, Zack nearly wins it on a surprise schoolboy pin. Both men show respect after the match.
Now go watch The Rock cost The British Bulldog the WWE Championship!
Backstage, Josh Mathews interviews Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane). Kane interrupts Daniel Bryan to say he is the WWE Tag Team Champions, but Daniel Bryan says he and The Miz won on Raw because he was at ringside. Kane says they almost lost because of him after trying to sabotage The Miz, but Daniel takes offense to this and says Kane likes to argue. Daniel calls Kane hopeless, then Kane calls him hopeless and walks off. As Daniel Bryan continues to mouth off at Kane and proclaim that he is the tag team champions, he is suddenly assaulted from behind by Team Rhodes Scholars (Cody Rhodes and Damien Sandow). Daniel Bryan is checked on after Team Rhodes Scholars runs away at the sight of a referee.
We see a video package for Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane).
It is announced that Daniel Bryan is still medically cleared to compete in the next match.
Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane) retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against Team Rhodes Scholars (Cody Rhodes and Damien Sandow). After the match, Matt Striker interviews Team Hell No. Daniel is about to speak when Kane takes the microphone and tells him that he should say "yes" when it comes to burying the hatchet between himself and The Miz. The Miz leaves the commentary table and offers his hand to Daniel, and it takes some words from Kane to make Daniel hug it out with Miz. Miz refuses to do so, and Team Hell No leaves.
Backstage, Dolph Ziggler says his Survivor Series team has a leader who will not abandon them and steals the show, and mockingly says his chances are awesome in an attempt to mock The Miz. He mentions that Mick Foley's team heats each other and that Mick Foley has created the worst team in Survivor Series history. Ziggler then tells The Miz to look in the mirror, as he will one day be the guy who doesn't know when to quit just like Foley. Miz says Foley has been WWE Champion and a WrestleMania main eventer like him, and asks Ziggler when he did that. Ziggler makes fun of The Miz's being a comp, and says he is the best thing going today. Miz tells Ziggler he is Vickie Guerrero's little puppet and his own biggest cheerleader, and that he will lead Team Foley to victory, saying there are captains more competent than Ziggler. Ziggler tells Miz that talking is all he does and all he will ever do, and Miz dares him to shut him up in the ring next week. Ziggler says he will be basking in the glow of his Survivor Series victory while Miz and his teammates will be at home wishing they could be him for a day. Miz says Ziggler is the biggest loser he has ever seen, but Ziggler says he has him confused with the Cleveland Browns. Miz tells Ziggler he will lose at Survivor Series and to him next week, but Ziggler says he will be the victor and that he will see him in the ring next week.
The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) beat The Prime Time Players (Darren Young and Titus O'Neil).
We hear from John Cena, who takes some time to say thanks to the United States military and its veterans, and asks the WWE Universe to do the same.
We head to the Video Vault to see some of the giants of WWE's past and present: The Great Khali, Big Show and Andre The Giant.
The Great Khali beats Primo in a match that sees Primo test his strength against Khali's to no avail. The match ends when Primo tries to body slam Khali only for Khali to land right on top of him.
Now go watch "Stone Cold" Steve Austin destroy the DX Express!
Big Show guest on commentary before the next match. We see WWE.com-exclusive footage of Sheamus at a bar when Big Show suddenly shows up and beats up Sheamus before threatening a couple of patrons.
We see a video package for Wade Barrett, then Barrett gets on the microphone and announces how he will be participating at Survivor Series before Sheamus shows up. Instead of getting in the ring with Barrett, Sheamus charges at Big Show, and referees have to hold both Big Show and Barrett back.
Sheamus beats Wade Barrett as Big Show walks away during the White Noise followed by the Brogue Kick.
Backstage, Matt Striker interviews Big Show only to get hit with a knockout punch.
R-Truth beats Jinder Mahal by disqualification after Jinder Mahal attacks R-Truth. After the match, Jinder and Slater continue to attack R-Truth.
Next week: Team Rhodes Scholars (Cody Rhodes and Damian Sandow) vs. Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane) for the WWE Tag Team Championships!
We see a video package for Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane).
Santino Marella guests on commentary for the next match.
Sin Cara beats El Local (who is Ricardo Rodriguez in a mask).
On this week's Video Vault: we look at luchadores throughout WWE (and WCW) history as part of the upcoming Day of the Dead holiday in Mexico: La Parka, Juventud Guerrera, and Rey Mysterio.
We see some of Rey Mysterio's favorite masks.
Dolph Ziggler guests on commentary for the next match.
Heath Slater tells us: Don't Try This.
Brodus Clay beats Cody Rhodes. During the match, Brodus and Cody have a dance-off, and Cody takes advantage as Brodus dances; nevertheless, he does not make much headway. After the match, Brodus Clay and The Funkadactyls (Cameron and Naomi) dance with some kids.
Now go watch Cody Rhodes deal with a cursed cowboy hat!
It is announced that referee Brad Maddox has been indefinitely suspended following his actions at Hell In A Cell and that he will be questioned tomorrow at WWE's global headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut by a board of inquiry. It is revealed that Maddox tried to be a WWE superstar and failed, then tried to be an official, which led to him being put in place as a referee on Raw went it went to three hours.
We get a closer look at Alberto Del Rio.
Randy Orton, Sin Cara and Rey Mysterio beat Alberto Del Rio and The Prime Time Players (Darren Young and Titus O'Neil). After the match, Matt Striker interviews Rey, Sin Cara and Orton. Rey thanks Orton for leading them to victory tonight, and says that the tag team division has found out that he and Sin Cara are here for a long run. Sin Cara thanks Rey and Orton, and says that he and Rey are teaming up to become tag team champions. Orton says that they sent a message to Alberto Del Rio: there is only one apex predator.
Backstage, Josh Mathews interviews The Prime Time Players (Darren Young and Titus O'Neil). Darren Young says that while they and Alberto Del Rio lost, the team as a whole did not, and this is not the end. Titus says the fans will notice they are the top team in WWE and that they will become the WWE Tag Team Champions at WrestleMania 29. Del Rio then shows up and tells Randy Orton it is not over yet, as he is the new apex predator. He tells Orton to watch his back Friday night on SmackDown.
It is announced that Raw General Manager Vickie Guerrero has more evidence in the AJ scandal in the form of more hotel security camera footage on the floor that AJ and John Cena were on.
Wade Barrett beats Tyson Kidd following an elbow from the outside. After the match, Barrett calls his victory against Tyson Kidd in less than five minutes "impressive," and says he is not surprised that Sheamus lost the World Heavyweight Championship, bragging that if he defended the title against him, he would be World Heavyweight Champion right now. Sheamus shows up and tells Barrett that it is a common misconception that the British and the Irish hate each other, but he personally just doesn't like Barrett. He admits he can't wait to get in the ring with Big Show again, but he is more than happy to put Barrett in his place next week. Barrett tells Sheamus the feeling is mutual before accepting his challenge, saying that he does not lose in England. Sheamus tells Barrett that there is a first time for everything and that he will enjoy kicking his ass even more before stating that they can go right now. Sheamus gets in the ring, but Barrett retreats.
Brodus Clay beats Epico. During the match, Brodus Clay makes a fool out of Epico by dancing with him, so Primo and Epico decide to take on Brodus Clay from different sides. It does not work when Primo gets scared off the apron and Brodus Clay sends Epico to the mat before hitting the splash for the win.
Kane takes us through a tour of monsters in the WWE, past and present: The Boogeyman, Papa Shango, The Undertaker and himself.
Kaitlyn shows us how to make a penguin costume.
On The 3rd Degree, Superstars share their favorite Halloween costumes.
Brodus Clay tells us: Don't Try This.
Antonio Cesaro beats Derrick Bateman, who plays a patriotic good guy early in the match.
Michael Cole and The Miz welcome everyone to tonight's show. The Miz takes offense to being called "the former Intercontinental Champion," saying he will beat Kofi Kingston for the title at Hell In A Cell this Sunday. Tonight, Dolph Ziggler goes one-on-one with Ryback. Miz says that Dolph is quick and agile, and that he is a former World Heavyweight Champion. We then see a video package of Ryback, then The Miz says it is one thing to see Ryback on videotape, and something else to face him in the ring. After that, we see a video package of Dolph Ziggler.
Matt Striker interviews Ryback. Ryback simply tells everyone to watch what he does to Dolph Ziggler when he is told that some say that he has not earned the right to compete for the WWE Championship at Hell In A Cell. Josh Mathews then interviews Dolph Ziggler, who has no comment when asked what his strategy against Ryback is and tells Mathews to get out as he keeps asking him questions.
Ryback beats Dolph Ziggler. During the match, Dolph Ziggler runs to the back, and Ryback chases Ziggler before the show cuts to a commercial break. When the commercial break is over, Ryback comes out - to his own entrance music - holding Ziggler in his arms before he gorilla presses Ziggler back into the ring.
On the Hell In A Cell pre-show, John Cena faces the WWE Universe live on WWE.com, Facebook and YouTube regarding the AJ Scandal, and will be answering questions made from the audience and through social media.
Michael Cole and The Miz interview Paul Heyman, who is backstage. Heyman says CM Punk is not on the same level of Dolph Ziggler, and says The Miz took his beating from Ryback like a man, unlike Dolph, who kept running away. He admits Ryback is most impressive with unprecedented power that is brought to every offensive maneuver which is brought with by bad intention. However, surviving a Hell In A Cell Match requires strategy and cunning, which Heyman claims Ryback does not have. This sunday, CM Punk will feed Ryback his very first loss and prove once again that he is the best in the world.
Alberto Del Rio beats Sin Cara with the Cross Arm Breaker. After the match, Alberto Del Rio asks Randy Orton if he is watching, as that will be him Hell In A Cell after he exposes him as a little crying girl who complans about everything. Ricardo Rodriguez mocks Randy Orton, then says that Alberto Del Rio says he does not have to brag about anything - especially in a stinky place like Providence, Rhode Island - or have to sing songs about having millions of dollars. Ricardo then mocks The Prime Time Players' (Darren Young and Titus O'Neil) "Millions of Dollars" dance. The Prime Time Players then show up, and said neither side had an issue with each other until now. Del Rio says he does not have any business with them as he is in the major leagues, and says Sin Cara is their enemy, not him. He proposes that the three of them work together, then the three of them attack Sin Cara. Randy Orton runs in and chases Del Rio out of the ring before making quick work of The Prime Time Players with two RKOs. Orton then grabs the microphone and tells Del Rio that he looks forward to seeing him on Sunday. He is not sure how much of Del Rio will be left after Hell In A Cell, but Rey Mysterio will be back on Main Event next week. He challenges Del Rio and The Prime Time Players to a six-man tag match against him, Rey and Sin Cara for next week.
"The Glamazon" Beth Phoenix tell us: Don't Try This.
Zack Ryder beats Justin Gabriel with an off-camera Rough Ryder. Both men shake hands and show respect after the match.
On this week's Video Vault, we see some of the most slithery Superstars in WWE history: Jake "The Snake" Roberts, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and Randy Orton.
We hear from Randy Orton. We learn that his nickname "The Viper" comes from his fascination with reptiles.
Daniel Bryan beats Tyson Kidd. Early in the match, Daniel Bryan tries to get out of the match after Tyson Kidd grabs his beard, but Kane shows up and tells Daniel Bryan to get back in the ring. When he does, Tyson Kidd picks him up, but Daniel Bryan escapes and puts Tyson Kidd in an airplane spin. Shortly afterwards, Daniel Bryan rolls himself into a ball, and when Tyson Kidd tries to pin him, he cannot pin his shoulders to the mat. Daniel Bryan extends his hand, and Tyson Kidd grabs it. Daniel Bryan drags him to the mat, then gets him with a crucifix pin as part of a match called "The Lady of the Lake." After the match, Kane takes his half of the WWE Tag Team Championships and celebrates with both belts. Daniel tries to get his belt back, but Kane uses his sheer size to keep Daniel from grabbing it. Kane reluctantly gives his belt back to him, then both men argue over who is the tag team champions as the show ends.
Michael Cole and JBL welcome everyone to tonight's show.
We see a vignette for Kofi Kingston, then Josh Mathews interviews Kofi backstage. Kofi says that people are still talking "the kick heard around the world" and that The Miz has kept talking about how he is not at 100% and isn't memorable enough, but The Miz will remember his name after bringing out a side of him he has never seen before. Last week was sending a message, but this week is about winning the Intercontinental Championship and it is time to let the beast out.
The Miz shows up and says he took a kick last week that would have decimated lesser men, and that there is a reason why he says he is awesome. He also says that the Intercontinental Championship means something for the first time in years because he has it, and that he is a future Hall of Famer, WrestleMania headliner and an all-time winner. We then see a vignette for The Miz, then Miz tells Kofi that if he wants his title, he can come and get it.
Kofi Kingston beats The Miz to win the WWE Intercontinental Championship for a fourth time after going for a schoolkid pin before hitting Trouble In Paradise after The Miz argues with the referee following getting caught putting his feet on the ropes for leverage. After the match, Matt Stryker interviews Kofi, who says it was time to let the beast out and that this match was one of the most grueling challenges of his career. Kofi says he knew he was in for the fight of his life, but he did it and is honored to be the next in a line of greats to hold the title. He then says that his title victory is proof that you can still have fun and still be a winner.
Backstage, Josh Mathews interviews The Miz, who says that losing the Intercontinental Championship is like losing an organ and that the title was stolen from him before wanting his title rematch to reclaim what is his.
Dolph Ziggler beats Zack Ryder. After the match, Vickie Guerrero says she does not care about Kofi Kingston beating The Miz for the WWE Intercontinental Championship, and says everyone will be talking about Ziggler when he has the potential to cash in for the World Heavyweight Championship in two weeks. Ziggler says he deserves better than Zack Ryder, for he is the best thing going in sports entertainment today and he is the main event. He then challenges any Superstar in the back to a one-on-one match on next week's Main Event. When nobody seems to answer the challenge, Ziggler and Vickie are about to leave when Ryback shows up.
The Miz beats Justin Gabriel after dodging a springboard moonsault to hit the Skull Crushing Finale (which is called the "Crushing Finale" to avoid giving the episode a TV-PG rating in America).
On The 3rd Degree, the WWE Superstars mention what their favorite Superstar entrance themes are.
We meet Jim Johnston in WWE's recording studio, who briefly describes his job as composer of WWE Superstar entrance themes past and present before playing a few themes on guitar. He gives the advice of not pre-deciding what to do if you go into music, and to get as good as you can so more opportunities can pop up in the future.
Justin Gabriel tells us: Don't try this. He also talks about how he tore every single in his left arm after performing the 450 Splash at WrestleMania.
Sin Cara beats Jinder Mahal. Sin Cara slides under the bottom rope instead of leaping over the top with the aid of an unseen trampoline before the match begins.
Michael Cole and The Miz welcome everyone to tonight's show.
We see a video package for Big Show. In the locker room, Josh Mathews interviews Big Show, who says he has to prove once again that he is the most dominant force in the company. After last week, he learned that the fans are fickle and that he should not cater to them anymore. He tells Mathews that his fist can break his face to the point that he can't move his jaw and he'll have a headache for six days, and when he beats Randy Orton again, it won't be a fluke.
We see a video package for Randy Orton. Backstage, Matt Stryker interviews Randy Orton, who says he is not here to make excuses. He says he will see Alberto Del Rio down the road very soon, and as for Big Show, he is not ashamed to have lost to him. He says that he does not like losing and that, while he does not believe lightning strikes twice, a viper can.
Big Show beats Randy Orton after repeatedly working on Randy Orton's injured ribs with four elbow drops prior to a Colossal Clutch followed by a choke slam. After the match, Matt Stryker interviews Show, who says that he will become the world's largest champion when he knocks Sheamus out at Hell In A Cell. The referee and a member of the medical staff is seen checking on Orton in the ring.
Backstage, Josh Mathews interviews Sheamus. He says that when Big Show caught his Brogue Kick on Raw, it stopped him in his tracks. He says that Big Show is perhaps his biggest challenge yet, but he looks forward to it as there is no bigger fight than Big Show. If he can beat Big Show at Hell In A Cell, that win will be so much sweeter.
Kofi Kingston beats Michael McGillicutty. After the match, The Miz interviews Kofi in the ring. Miz sarcastically congratulates Kofi on the win, then mocks Kofi for saying the match was fun, saying Kofi's attitude devalues everything in the ring and the WWE Intercontinental Championship. Miz goes on about being a "WrestleMania Hall of Famer," saying he didn't get there by being "a carefree hippie on a drumline" and says Kofi cheap shotted him on Raw because he can never be on his level and because it was the only way to beat him. Kofi says he has what it takes to do what Miz has accomplished, and says that maybe it is his plan to make Miz think he is a non-threat and that Miz won't truly know unless he faces him one-on-one in the ring. Miz tells Kofi to name the time and place, and Kofi says it will be next week on Main Event. Miz accepts, then Kofi says it will be with the Intercontinental Championship on the line. Miz laughs, then Kofi says he was Intercontinental Champion one year ago, and says that while Miz doesn't have to put it on the line, it only proves he was a better Intercontinental Championship than Miz ever will be. Miz tells Kofi that if he wants the Intercontinental title on the line, he's on, and Kofi says "Sounds like fun." Miz then tries to hit Kofi with a cheap shot, but Kofi connects with Trouble In Paradise before lifting the Intercontinental Championship into the air to end the show.
Rey Mysterio beats Michael McGillicutty. Due to the show's strict regulations against moves aimed at the head and neck to keep the show rated TV-G in America, Rey Mysterio gets Michael McGillicutty in a seated position on the ropes during his attempt at the 619, and Rey kicks him in the rear end instead of the head. During the match, McGillicutty mocks Rey for his small size, gets tricked into hitting the ropes into near-exhaustion by Rey,
Don't be a bully, Be A S.T.A.R. Show tolerance and respect.
Santino Marella is this week's Saturday Morning Slam.
Daniel Bryan answers questions from the WWE Universe. When asked if he dreams of hamburgers, he says no, as he has no interest in hamburgers. When asked if he has ever made a mistake, he says he never does. When asked if he knows the taste of defeat, he says wins every match, even when he loses. When asked if he believes in unicorns, he says no, as they are "the stupidest fictional character [he] can imagine." When asked if he plays video games, he says no and that video games are for idiots. When asked if he likes magic, he says no, as magic is pure fiction and he is a man of science. When asked if he likes ice cream, he says yes, "especially ice cream made with almond milk." When asked if he wants a tag team partner, he says no as he can do everything by himself. When asked if he likes goats, he repeatedly screams "no" and walks away.
In this week's Video Vault, we see the debut of Mr. Socko on the October 5, 1998 episode of Raw.
On this week's The 3rd Degree, WWE Superstars debate who is better: The Cobra or Mr. Socko.
Next week: We meet Jim Johnston, the man behind WWE entrance themes past and present!
Santino Marella takes a moment to call the Cobra and Mr. Socko even, and hopes everyone enjoyed this week's episode.
Michael Cole and The Miz welcome everyone to tonight's show. We then see a video package for CM Punk, then we see Punk in the locker room, where he and Paul Heyman are interviewed by Matt Stryker. Punk says it does not get any bigger than champion vs. champion, but there is still a rampant disrespect and a lack of credit that he deserves. He looks forward to beating Sheamus, and maybe people will use proper manners and won't barge into the locker room for an interview afterwards. Heyman says that Punk will beat Sheamus because Punk is the best in the world. Backstage, Josh Mathews interviews Sheamus, who says that Punk and his campaign for respect will end when he makes Punk respect him the only way he knows how: by shoving his foot down his throat. We then see a video package for Sheamus.
CM Punk beats Sheamus in a Champion vs. Champion Match. During the match, CM Punk rips out a turnbuckle cover while trying to get away from Sheamus, but it does not work and he falls victim to the Ten Beats of the Bodhrain and White Noise. Later on in the match, Punk trips Sheamus into the exposed turnbuckle with a drop toe hold, and rolls Sheamus up before grabbing his tights to get the win. After the match, Matt Stryker interviews Sheamus in the ring. Sheamus takes the microphone and says that for the past few months, all he has heard about is CM Punk demanding respect, and the way the match ended proves why Punk does not get it. He refuses to cry about it or make excuses, and says that he will take it on the chin, and says that when he meets Punk again, Punk will be the one taking it on the chin from a Brogue Kick.
In the locker room, Josh Mathews interviews CM Punk and Paul Heyman. Heyman says that Punk has soundly defeated Sheamus, and if that is not demonstrative of being the best in the world, then he asks Mathews to explain what it takes for Punk to earn his respect. Heyman proceeds to mock Mathews' intelligence while putting Punk on a pedestal, then tells Mathews to leave.
Next week: Randy Orton vs. Big Show!
Backstage, Matt Stryker interviews Big Show. Big Show says that next week will be their first appearance on Main Event and Orton's first and last appearance on the show when Orton gets knocked out. The camera focuses on Big Show's fist as Big Show states that his fist will be the last thing Orton sees.
Santino Marella and Zack Ryder beat Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel to advance to the semi-finals of the #1 Contender's Tag Team Tournament.
Santino Marella beats Heath Slater with a Cobra to the leg of Slater followed by a schoolboy pin. During the match, both Santino and Slater have an "air instrument" play-off, and Santino tickles Slater to get out of a submission hold.
Cody Rhodes is this week's Saturday Morning Spotlight. He gives us a Fave Five of the top five "vanity Superstars:" "The Narcissist" Lex Luger, Rick "The Model" Martel, "Ravishing" Rick Rude, "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels, and "Dashing" Cody Rhodes.
On The Third Degree, WWE Superstars talk about what their favorite sport was going up.
This week's Pop Quiz question: Which WWE Superstar won the very first WWE Iron Man Match?
On the Video Vault, we see WWE's most athletic idols: Simon Dean, The Goon, Abe "Knuckleball" Schwartz, and Mr. Perfect.
"The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels won the very first WWE Iron Man Match.
We get some health tips from John Cena: start every day with a healthy breakfast, be active, and get a good night's rest.
The Miz is this week's Saturday Morning Spotlight.
In this week's installment of Fave Five, we see five of the greatest WWE Intercontinental Champions ever: Pat Patterson, Chris Jericho, The Ultimate Warrior, The Honky Tonk Man and "Macho Man" Randy Savage.
This week's Pop Quiz question is: Who did "Macho Man" Randy Savage beat at WrestleMania 4 to win the WWE Championship: Hulk Hogan, Andre The Giant or "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase?
Santino Marella guests on commentary this week.
Zack Ryder tells us: Don't Try This.
Zack Ryder beats William Regal. During the match, William Regal has Zack Ryder in a hold and yells "I've got him!" Santino yells "No, you don't!" and Regal yells "Yes, I do!" This continues as William Regal lets go of Zack Ryder to argue with Santino further, and Zack Ryder nearly wins the match on a schoolboy pin.
John Cena talks about Make-A-Wish Foundation.
"Macho Man" Randy Savage beat "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase at WrestleMania 4 to become the WWE Champion.
Next week: Family, Health and Fitness Day! John Cena gives advice on how to be your best!
The Miz gives us some last-minute pointers on how to be awesome: Dress the part, walk the part, listen to naysayers (and prove them wrong), be loud and be heard...and be awesome!
Now go watch the last few minutes of that WWE Championship match!
Justin Gabriel is this week's Saturday Morning Spotlight.
Justin Gabriel shows us around Cape Town, South Africa.
We see other Superstars from around the world, past and present: Kofi Kingston (Ghana), Kamala (Uganda), The Great Khali (India), Yoshi Tatsu (Japan), Nathan Jones (Australia), The Bushwhackers (Bushwhacker Butch and Bushwhacker Luke) (New Zealand), Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka (Fiji), Haku (Tonga), Rikishi (Samoa), Giant Gonzales (Argentina), Giant Silva (Brazil), Ezekiel Jackson (Guyana), Pedro Morales (Puerto Rico), Alberto Del Rio (Mexico), countless Superstars from the United States of America, Bret "Hit Man" Hart, Chris Jericho, Christian, Tyson Kidd, Natalya (Canada), William Regal (England), Mason Ryan (Wales), Drew McIntyre (Scotland), Sheamus (Ireland), Andre the Giant (France), Alex Wright (Germany), Antonio Cesaro (Switzerland), Santino Marella (Italy), Spiros Arion (Greece), "Baron" Mikel Scicluna (Malta), Ludvig Borga (Finland), Ivan Putski (Poland), Aksana (Lithuania), Vladimir Kozlov (Ukraine), Nikolai Volkoff (Russia), The Iron Sheik (Iran), and countless Superstars from Parts Unknown.
Santino Marella guests on commentary this week.
Sheamus tells us: Don't Try This.
Kofi Kingston and R-Truth beat Primo and Epico. During the match, R-Truth's imaginary friend Little Jimmy becomes a distraction, with Primo and Epico wanting to be friends with him. When referee Mike Chioda says that Little Jimmy says no, this starts a short brawl where R-Truth and Kofi come out on top.
We see footage from a recent tour of the Far East, where the WWE Superstars performed in Taiwan, Japan and China.
Next week: We explore the legacy of the WWE Intercontinental Championship and spend time with its current holder, The Miz!
In Switzerland, Cesaro tells us about the five languages he is fluent in: English, Swiss German, French (which he learned when he was 10 years old), Italian (which he learned recently) and German (which he learned to read and write in school). He also tells how to say "Welcome back to school" in those languages.
Damien Sandow is this week's Saturday Morning Spotlight. We then get introduced to some new words courtesy of "Damien's Dictionary," such as "matriculate," (to begin, to enter, to enroll or to join) "sophomoric," (childish, adolescent, or juvenile) and "valedictorian" (the highest ranking student academically in a graduating class).
In this week's Video Vault, we are introduced to guys throughout WWE history who prove that just because you're intelligent does not mean that you are smart: Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, The Genius, Dean Douglas and Matt Striker.
In this week's The Third Degree, WWE Superstars name their favorite school subjects.
Don't be a bully, Be A S.T.A.R. Show tolerance and respect.
William Regal guests on commentary this week.
CM Punk tells us: Don't Try This.
Sin Cara beats Michael McGillicutty.
We see footage from Be A S.T.A.R. events at schools throughout the week of SummerSlam.
Nexxt week: Justin Gabriel takes us through South Africa!
Damien Sandow gives us one last word: "curriculum" (a particular course of study in a school or college).
Now go watch what is from this moment on, starting now, the genesis of McGillicutty!
For Fave Five, we see Saturday Morning Slam's top five catchphrases: "If you smell what The Rock is cooking" by The Rock, "To be the man...you've got to beat the man" by "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair, "Because I'm the Miz...and I'm...awesome" by The Miz, "You can't see me" by John Cena, and "...and that's the bottom line, 'cause Stone Cold said so" by "Stone Cold" Steve Austin.
We look at the signatures of WWE Superstars. Derrick Bateman says the strangest thing he has ever signed is a man's prosthetic leg, while Kofi Kingston says it is a very dirty shoe. Dolph has written his signature on a baby,
while Layla has signed just about everything.
WWE Pop Quiz: On March 26th, 2001, who beat Vince McMahon to the punch to become the new owner of World Championship Wresting?
Santino Marella guests on commentary for this week's match.
Brodus Clay beats Curt Hawkins. During the match, Curt Hawkins tries to be a better dancer than Brodus Clay, but he gets headbutted when Brodus Clay is not impressed. After the match, Brodus Clay and The Funkadactyls (Cameron and Naomi) dance with some kids - and Santino Marella - in the ring.
WWE Pop Quiz: On March 26th, 2001, Shane McMahon beat Vince McMahon to the punch to become the new owner of World Championship Wresting.
Next week: WWE Superstars match wits with Damien Sandow!
This week's Saturday Morning Spotlight is Rey Mysterio Jr. The name of his finishing move, the 619, is inspired by "Austin 3:16" and the area code of the San Diego, California. His first match in WWE was the debut of the 619, which has been a success ever since. We then see the 619 in action.
Now go watch "Stone Cold" Steve Austin pour cement into Vince McMahon's Corvette!
This week's Saturday Morning Spotlight is on Brodus Clay, who talks about how Planet Funk, admits that The Funkadactyls (Cameron and Naomi), and says that he called his mama about five minutes. He then teaches us how to dance.
Brodus Clay isn't the only dancing Superstar in WWE History: 2 Cold Scorpio, Rikishi, Too Cool (Grandmaster Sexay and Scotty 2 Hotty), and even World Championship Wrestling's Disco Inferno also cut a rug. But before all of them did it, The Junkyard Dog was the one doing it with "The Juke."
In The Third Degree, the Superstars are asked what their favorite Olympic sport is.
Santino Marella guests on commentary for the next match. (Despite being announced as the WWE United States Champion, he has already lost it by that point; the match was taped on August 14th.)
Daniel Bryan tells us: Don't Try This.
Kofi Kingston beats Heath Slater with a top rope cross body after Slater dodges Trouble In Paradise.
WWE heads to St. Louis, Missouri as part of The Be A Star anti-bullying initiative.
Next week: Rey Mysterio! Superstar signatures...and signature catchphrases!
The show ends with the Superstars dancing and lip-syncing while "Don't Give Up" by Kevin Rudolf - the theme from this year's SummerSlam - plays in the background.
Now go witness the first Stone Cold Stunner to Vince McMahon!
