[ArtisticHate]

People seem to be convinced that it'll be Cena (with Bret) vs. Batista (with Vince) for the WWE title and some kind of extra stipulation I guess. I guess that could work out okay, it would put Bret into another Mania Main Event moment. Maybe like if Cena wins, Bret gets a match and if Vince wins, Bret is gone from the WWE forever. Cena wins, gets the title and then Bret vs. Vince becomes the "real" main event. They have a short 5-10 minute match, Bret wins with the sharpshooter and gets his final bow at the end of Mania. Could be nice.

[JetsMania]

geemoney, on February 21, 2010 - 11:51 PM, said:

MrMarlinPride, on February 21, 2010 - 11:46 PM, said:

After tonights PPV its safe to say that at WrestleMania 27 we will see EDGE vs Y2J for the World Heavyweight Championship, Batista vs Cena for the WWE Championship, Micheals vs Undertaker and most likely CM Punk vs Rey Mysterio if they aren't in MITB.

There likely won't be a MITB at WM this year, with the MITB PPV coming in the summer.

Weak! I liked having it at Mania.

[MrMarlinPride]

JetsMania, on February 22, 2010 - 11:33 AM, said:

geemoney, on February 21, 2010 - 11:51 PM, said:

MrMarlinPride, on February 21, 2010 - 11:46 PM, said:

After tonights PPV its safe to say that at WrestleMania 27 we will see EDGE vs Y2J for the World Heavyweight Championship, Batista vs Cena for the WWE Championship, Micheals vs Undertaker and most likely CM Punk vs Rey Mysterio if they aren't in MITB.

There likely won't be a MITB at WM this year, with the MITB PPV coming in the summer.

Weak! I liked having it at Mania.

WTF Theres a MITB PPV now to?!?!?!
God damn this is getting ridiculous and I agree i enjoy the MITB match at Mania.

[JetsMania]

ArtisticHate, on February 22, 2010 - 01:10 AM, said:

People seem to be convinced that it'll be Cena (with Bret) vs. Batista (with Vince) for the WWE title and some kind of extra stipulation I guess. I guess that could work out okay, it would put Bret into another Mania Main Event moment. Maybe like if Cena wins, Bret gets a match and if Vince wins, Bret is gone from the WWE forever. Cena wins, gets the title and then Bret vs. Vince becomes the "real" main event. They have a short 5-10 minute match, Bret wins with the sharpshooter and gets his final bow at the end of Mania. Could be nice.

I really hope we dont see him in action. I'd like to remember the old bret hard, not the post stroke one.

We'll have to see what happens tonight.

[geemoney]

FWIW, WWE.com is advertising MITB qualifying matches beginning tonight on Raw, so it appears the match is still on for 'Mania.

[MrMarlinPride]

geemoney, on February 22, 2010 - 06:38 PM, said:

FWIW, WWE.com is advertising MITB qualifying matches beginning tonight on Raw, so it appears the match is still on for 'Mania.

God Bless America!

[Spike]

Please WWE...MAKE BATISTAS NEVER ENDING PUSH STOP!

I am going to take roids, learn 2 moves and 2 moves only, and be completely awful on the mic. I should be a world champ within a month.

[MrMarlinPride]

Spike, on February 22, 2010 - 10:03 PM, said:

Please WWE...MAKE BATISTAS NEVER ENDING PUSH STOP!

I am going to take roids, learn 2 moves and 2 moves only, and be completely awful on the mic. I should be a world champ within a month.

Seems just about right.

You'll be a 6 time champ in no time.

[Spike]

Has there ever been a person so bad at everything that has to do with wrestling be so unreasonably pushed? I mean, seriously. Am I wrong?

[geemoney]

Spike, on February 22, 2010 - 10:11 PM, said:

Has there ever been a person so bad at everything that has to do with wrestling be so unreasonably pushed? I mean, seriously. Am I wrong?

His mic work, body language and overall attitude has been pretty awesome since his heel turn.

[Spike]

Couldnt disagree more.

[geemoney]

Spike, on February 22, 2010 - 10:55 PM, said:

Couldnt disagree more.

Interesting. Well, that's what makes for good discussions I guess.

[geemoney]

TONIGHT: It’s Batista’s first Raw as new WWE Champion after besting John Cena last night following the Raw Chamber Match. Maybe we’ll get an explanation from Vince McMahon for why he did what he did. Speaking of Vince, apparently Bret won’t be there tonight. Also, perhaps we’ll get a Divas Title match since the contest was postponed last night. Something to move the MVP & Mark Henry vs. ShoMiz feud is likely. Will Undertaker and Shawn Michaels be on the show? Edge will be there to make his announcement as to what champion he’ll face at Wrestlemania. WWE.com is advertising Money-In-The-Bank qualifying matches beginning tonight, so apparently it’s still on for this year’s ‘Mania. And count on some NXT hype. Oh, and your guest hosts are singer Jewel and bull rider Ty Murray.

-WWE Open.

-Highlights of Batista being sent out to destroy John Cena last night were shown.

-Raw Open.

-The usual pomp and circumstance started off the show from Indianapolis. Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler said Shawn Michaels will be here tonight to explain his actions at the Chamber. But will Taker be there to confront him?

-And there was a mechanical bull in the arena, as “the best bull rider of all-time” Ty Murray and wife Jewel were the guest hosts. Can anyone back up that claim made of Murray?

-For some reason, we started with the World Heavyweight Champion, Chris Jericho, who was introduced by Justin Roberts. Jericho was cackling all the way to the ring. “I’m going to Wrestlemania!” was how Jericho started his spiel. Jericho realized that not long ago, he did promise to never appear on Raw again. Jericho said he changed his mind last night when he beat five guys in an Elimination Chamber. He reiterated that he was the World Heavyweight Champion, one who just beat The Undertaker twice in a roll. The only thing that could bring Jericho’s evening down? That’s right: Edge.

His music hit and Edge came out of the crowd to spear him. Edge said Jericho is going to Wrestlemania….against him. They showed a replay of what just happened. And yes, that was all Edge had to say. At least, for now. Predictable is OK if it’s still entertaining, which this has been.

-Cole and Lawler talked on-camera about what just happened. But not for long, as John Cena’s music hit while they were talking.

-Cena stormed to the ring, minus all of his normal to-dos. He was MAD. Cena told everyone to add him to the list of people Vince McMahon has screwed. He recapped how he was screwed, but did say he gets a re-match, and wanted it right now. Instead, Mr. McMahon’s music hit and the Chairman came out. Vince said he is all about business and he said he made a business deal with Batista, wherein Batista would take out his trash (Bret Hart) for him. McMahon said Bret is in Calgary with his broken ankle or broken leg or whatever, and he’s embarrassed. Because Dave helped him, he granted Batista a WWE Championship match any time. But not a World Title match? Vince said it wasn’t personal, just business. McMahon reminded Cena that last week, he told Batista, “if you want some, come get some.” Cena said that, well, tonight, he’s taking it back. McMahon said, “in your dreams.” Apparently, Batista won’t defend the title until Wrestlemania. Besides, Sheamus has a return match too. McMahon wondered aloud which one deserved the title shot at ‘Mania. Crowd was in favor of Cena. McMahon said he’d make a business deal with him tonight. He’ll put him in a match tonight and if Cena wins, he faces Batista at Wrestlemania. If he loses, Sheamus fights Batista at ‘Mania. Cena’s opponent tonight? Batista. OK, it would make more sense to do Sheamus vs. Cena with the winner to face Batista at ‘Mania for the title, but I’m guessing they didn’t want to job Sheamus here.

[Commercial Break]

(1) Maryse vs. Gail Kim – Finals in the Tournament for the Divas Championship
Kim with a quick roll-up after a missed clothesline. Only got a one-count. Maryse missed a corner charge and Kim hit a right hand, then a clothesline for two. Maryse’s selling is particularly bad here. Maryse sent Kim head-first into the buckle. Kim went for her finisher (“eat defeat” according to Cole), but Maryse held onto the ropes. Jackknife cover for two by Kim. Kim went for a cross-body off the top, but Maryse snuck underneath her, and apparently, Kim couldn’t see her there. And for some reason, Maryse hit the floor and did some major selling. What is going on here? Maryse finally went for a French Kiss, but an inside cradle by Kim got two. Kim climbed upon Maryse’s shoulders, but Maryse dropped her throat-first across the top rope, then gave her the French Kiss. It’s over.

Winner: Maryse, at 2:50. I was kinda looking forward to this one, but it was awful. They were most definitely not on the same page.

-Tonight, John Cena faces Batista in an opportunity for Cena to get a re-match for the WWE Titel at Wrestlemania.

-Also, Shawn Michaels will explain his actions from last night. Will Taker confront Michaels?

[Commercial Break]

-More shots of the mechanical bull in the arena.

-Ty Murray was talking with the Bella Twins backstage and Jewel was conversing with Eve Torres and Kelly Kelly. Jewel explained why she was in crutches, apparently, from a mechanical bull. Murray said the important thing is that they’re here, and apparently, there will be a Divas bull-riding contest later on. Jillian Hall walked in and she assumed Jewel knew who she was. She said people had told her she was better at Jewel songs than Jewel herself. Hall began to sing, but Jewel cut her off and showed her how to do it. Jillian accused Jewel of trying to show her up. She said she’d send Jewel back to living in her car. Jewel said she’d take the advice of her good friend Sharon Osbourne, and she slapped Jillian. Jillian whimpered off the screen as the other divas cheered.

-Randy Orton was staring into space (or staring at the TV screen and Jewel’s rack from the last segment) when Cody Rhodes came in. He apologized again, and threw Ted DiBiase under the bus again. He said Ted had been talking all about how he wanted to beat Orton in the Chamber and headline Wrestlemania the same year his dad would be going into the H.O.F. Orton said he’s the only one at fault, as he’s taught Ted and Cody way too well. He said he hasn’t been a good leader, which is why he asked for a six-man tag tonight. He wanted to prove they were all on the same page. Orton told Cody to tell Ted that he was sorry. Those words did not come out of the Viper easily. As Orton walked away, DiBiase walked up to Rhodes. Rhodes said it went really well…almost too well. Ted asked Cody if he was sticking to the plan. “Absolutely,” responded Cody. The six-man is next.

[Commercial Break]

(2) Kofi Kingston & Evan Bourne & Yoshi Tatsu vs. Randy Orton & Legacy
Tatsu worked in some kicks on DiBiase, then got a few deep arm-drags. Some double-teaming after Bourne tagged in and Bourne registered a two-count. Rhodes tagged in and Bourne kicked away at the legs. Roll-up got one. Rhodes caught Bourne with a back-elbow, but Bourne again landed a forearm. To the top, but Rhodes cut him off. Alabama Slam by Rhodes, obviously having learned something from his first tag partner, Hardcore Holly. Kick out by Bourne on a pin, then they went to break.

[Commercial Break]

Big clothesline by DiBiase on Bourne for a two-count out of break. Crowd was getting into it after being quiet early. Double-knees by Bourne, but he couldn’t make the tag immediately. Both men were down and Kingston tagged in, landing a chop off the top rope on Teddy. Cole gave the “controlled frenzy” quote that he’s contractually obligated to say in every Kofi match. Orton grabbed a handful of Kingston hair to turn the tables. He then tagged in and bodyslammed Kofi. Speaking of “contractually obligated,” there’s the patented Orton chin-lock. Kingston tried to fight out, but Randy gave the back-breaker as Cody and Ted were whispering to each other in the corner. Orton walked around the ring as the fans chanted for Kofi. Cody tagged himself in and Orton gave him the DDT with Cody’s legs on the ropes. DiBiase screamed at Orton outside the ring and Orton RKO’d DiBiase. Big pop from the crowd on that one. Is that what they are going for, though? Tatsu tagged in and hit a few of his moves, then tagged Bourne for Air Bourne and thw win.

Winners: Bourne, Kingston and Tatsu, at 9:50. I think we finally got the official break-up of Legacy. Or maybe not. Match was good and the crowd was into the second half.

-Later tonight, a Wrestlemania title opportunity is on the line when John Cena faces Batista.

-And Shawn Michaels will explain his actions last night in the Chamber. The big question apparently is will Taker be here to respond? That’s next.

[Commercial Break]

-We saw a video package showing how the Taker vs. Michaels feud got started this year, all the way back to the Slammys. It was your usual pretty awesome video package. Long, but awesome.

-Shawn Michaels came out. He was dressed like Ty Murray. Michaels said he wasn’t going to take up a lot of our time tonight, because his explanation for his actions last night isn’t very complicated. He said he did what he needed to do. Even though what he did wasn’t popular, he said it’s something that he’ll have to live with. He also said he understood there will be a reaction from Undertaker. He said he was counting on one. The bell tolled and the lights went out. He made his full entrance (after the flame towers had gone down) in his Ministry jacket. Taker got a mic and said HBK wanted his attention….now he has it. Shawn said that last year, people said the two of them had the greatest match in Wrestlemania history, or possibly ever. As flattering as that was for Shawn, he wrestled a (nearly) perfect match and made just one mistake. Michaels said he can’t live with that. He said he begged Taker for a re-match, but the Dead Man refused. At this point, the fans started chanting “what.” Michaels said he was left no choice but to cost Taker his World Heavyweight Championship. He said Taker wants revenge, and told him to face him at ‘Mania to get his revenge. “You’re on,” said Undertaker. As Michaels began to walk out, Taker said “…on one condition.” This year, Michaels has to put up something as well. Undertaker demanded it be Shawn’s soul. Taker said if Shawn defeats him, the streak is over. But, if Taker wins, Michaels’ career is over. The crowd was abuzz. Michaels said Taker doesn’t get it. If he can’t beat Taker at ‘Mania, then he has no career. He then accepted. The thing is, the “career on the line” stip has been broken so often, does it have much steam? They can point to Flair I guess, for the casual fans who don’t know about his overseas ventures.

-The screen faded to black after the bell tolled, but then they cued up the graphic of Batista vs. Cena, and the announcers talked about it.

-Christian has signed with Raw, and he was walking backstage, heading to the ring for the first MITB qualifying match.

[Commercial Break]

-The MITB briefcase was shown hanging above the ring. Cole and King talked about Taker vs. HBK at ‘Mania this year.

(3) Christian vs. Carlito – Money-In-The-Bank Qualifying Match
An inset promo aired from Heath Slater, Christian’s rookie on NXT tomorrow night. He called himself “the one-man rock band” and said he’d blow people’s minds tomorrow night. Carlito ran to the ring and we heard from Michael Tarver, Carlito’s rookie. He said he was the son of a preacher and boxer. He said he’d have you eating through a straw in 1.9 seconds. Once the match began, Carlito took Christian down on the apron and went for a quick pinfall attempt. Carly peppered Christian with lefts, but Christian ran through him with a forearm. Christian stood on Carlito’s back with Carlito’s throat across the ropes, but Christian nearly slipped off. Christian missed a cross-body, but did land a reverse DDT for two. He went for the Killswitch but Carlito countered. He pulled Christian’s feet off the middle ropes and got a swinging neck-breaker for two. Another Killswitch try, but again, couldn’t hook it. He went for a springboard back elbow, but Christian caught him. Carlito was sent shoulder-first into the post and the Killswitch was engaged. Christian qualifies.

Winner: Christian, at 3:00. Acceptable match.

-More shots of the mechanical bull. The Divas Bull Riding contest is next.

[Commercial Break]

-Justin Roberts introduced Ty Murray and Jewel. She said she has been having a blast backstage, but like bull riding, wrestling is a macho sport. She said it was time to bring some Divas into things. Murray said he had been working with the Divas backstage and they’re ready to go. Eve was the first one out and damn she looked fine. Are we going to see the return of Santina tonight for this? Eve held on and lasted the full eight seconds. Kelly Kelly was on next. She held on as well. The Bellas followed. Murray suggested they ride double. And they did. Well, at least that saves some time. Boy, this bull is tame. The Bellas lasted the entire time too. Some competition. The Big Show and The Miz came out next, I’m assuming it’s unscheduled. Miz was disgusted and said, “what’s next, a yodeling contest?” Murray said Jewel was pretty good at yodeling, and she showed off a bit. Big Show said anyone can bull ride. Murray bet him that he couldn’t do it, at least, not as good as the women. Big Show went down to the Bull and asked the women to hold his titles. They all refused. “You’re just rude,” he said. Show got on stomach-first and Jewel and Murray made fun of him. They cranked things up for Show and he got taken off quite early. Miz claimed it wasn’t fair and said it was going faster than the Divas. Murray made fun of him for being the only one in bull riding to claim, “that isn’t fair.” Miz told Show not to let the bull get to his head. It was, apparently, taunting Big Show. Show started yelling at the bull. Is he drunk? Show took a swing and punched the bull, but Show fell into the circle anyway. Jewel called it stuffed animal cruelty. Miz said it was just another guest host activity that ended in severe disappointment, just like the Colts in the Super Bowl. Miz wanted to get out of there, but Murray called him back. He said they have to defend their tag titles against MVP and Mark Henry next. The champs walked to the ring for the match.

-John Cena vs. Batista is still to come tonight, with Cena’s Wrestlemania title hopes on the line.

[Commercial Break]

- Next week, we’ll get an update on Bret Hart. But that video popped up in the middle of Cole talking about WWE.com (and that graphic being shown). Cole did not mention the video of Hart.

(4) The Miz & The Big Show vs. Mark Henry & MVP- Unified Tag Team Championship Match
Big Show got jumped by MVP as he tagged in. MVP got speared and Show landed a few chops. Henry’s shoulder that he injured last night was wrapped, BTW. He came in and worked over Show, but Miz came off the top and was caught by Henry and given the World’s Strongest Slam. Show was the legal man though, and he caught Henry with a right hand for the pin.

Winners: Show and Miz, at 2:48.

-Now the video of the Bret Hart update was shown, and it’s next, not next week like a mistakenly wrote.


[Commercial Break]

-Cole and Lawler plugged Jewel’s new CD.

-The next Hall-of-Famer for 2010: Wendi Richter. “Rowdy” Roddy Piper will induct her.

-Cole updated the health of Bret “Hitman” Hart. His personal physician notes that there is some tendon and ligament damage, along with a broken leg. They showed exactly what happened last week.

-Backstage, Vince McMahon was talking to the camera. He said he was reconsidering facing Bret at Wrestlemania and was looking forward to the competition. Then he categorically denied that he had anything to do with Bret’s injury. He invited Bret back next week, to say goodbye the right way. Vince promised him all the perks (ambulance to bring him to the arena, wheelchair to get to the ring, hydraulic lift to get into the ring) to say go out on a more positive note.

-Cena was walking backstage. His match is next.

[Commercial Break]

-Next week, we’ll see the Farewell to Bret Hart, as Lawler confirmed that Hart has accepted Vince’s offer.

-Next week’s guest hosts: Cheech and Chong.

-Also next week, Randy Orton vs. Ted DiBiase. Nothing like beating a dead horse.

(5) John Cena vs. Batista
Batista made his entrance at 11:01pm, so I’m not sure what kind of match we’ll get. Batista took his time during his entrance. The match started one second shy of 11:04. Cena went after Batista in the corner, and Batista cowered between the ropes. Then he kneed Cena square in the balls, to earn a DQ.

Winner: Cena, at :26.

Batista clapped at himself for his actions and then kicked Cena in the face. Batista continued to clobber Cena in the corner. He started walking up the ramp, but Cena stirred in the ring. Batista got upset and went back, throwing Cena shoulder-first into the ringpost. Cena fell to ringside and was thrown into the barricade next. Then, Batista picked Cena up and rammed him back-first into the ringpost. That’s where the brutality ended. Medics came to ringside to check on Cena’s condition. Cena began to sit up and Batista spotted that. I guess I was wrong, because Batista went back for more. He got a steel chair from ringside as apparently, Cena has no friends in the back. Speaking of “back,” that’s where Batista slammed the chair into Cena. Cena began to shake and somewhat Hulk-Up. He even got to his feet, but Batista laid in another chair shot. To his knees again and another chair to the back. Batista finally began to walk away, and we got a replay of the “match,” and some highlights of the beat-down. Batista raised his arms on the ramp as the show went out.

[JetsMania]

geemoney, on February 22, 2010 - 10:48 PM, said:

Spike, on February 22, 2010 - 10:11 PM, said:

Has there ever been a person so bad at everything that has to do with wrestling be so unreasonably pushed? I mean, seriously. Am I wrong?

His mic work, body language and overall attitude has been pretty awesome since his heel turn.

I agree with this.

[geemoney]

JetsMania, on February 23, 2010 - 09:08 AM, said:

geemoney, on February 22, 2010 - 10:48 PM, said:

Spike, on February 22, 2010 - 10:11 PM, said:

Has there ever been a person so bad at everything that has to do with wrestling be so unreasonably pushed? I mean, seriously. Am I wrong?

His mic work, body language and overall attitude has been pretty awesome since his heel turn.

I agree with this.

Yeah, I mean, I'm not a great fan of his in-ring work, but I'm willing to give the devil his due when he does well. Spike, is there anything particular about the way he carries himself as a heel that isn't working for you?

[ArtisticHate]

I thought the first episode of NXT was very cool and entertaining. I'm going to stick with it.

[Spike]

WWE released Hurricane, Burchill, and Maria today. How they never came up with anything for Burchill just perplexes me, especially when someone like Batista get pushed to the moon.

[geemoney]

I too liked Burchill. Sad to see him go.

[MrMarlinPride]

Burchill should definitely head over to TNA and they could but him in the British Invasion. That would be pretty sick.
Helms just didnt look as great as he was before his neck injury but you can't blame the guy after coming back from such a career threatening threat.

[MillerTime]

Spike, on February 22, 2010 - 10:11 PM, said:

Has there ever been a person so bad at everything that has to do with wrestling be so unreasonably pushed? I mean, seriously. Am I wrong?

Yes. John Cena.

[Spike]

MillerTime, on February 26, 2010 - 11:28 PM, said:

Spike, on February 22, 2010 - 10:11 PM, said:

Has there ever been a person so bad at everything that has to do with wrestling be so unreasonably pushed? I mean, seriously. Am I wrong?

Yes. John Cena.

John Cena far surpasses Batista both in the ring and on the mic. Its not even close.

[geemoney]

TONIGHT: Raw will feature the alleged farewell of Bret “Hitman” Hart. Far be it for me to believe a pro wrestling angle, but….well, ya know. We’ll likely get at least one more Money-In-The-Bank qualifying match, plus will John Cena react to the beating given to him last week by WWE Champion Batista? And will we see more of Shawn Michaels and Undertaker? As for Legacy, Randy Orton and Ted DiBiase will go one-on-one this evening. Will we find out where Triple H and Sheamus fit in to Wrestlemania? Cheech and Chong are the guest hosts for the show that starts…..now.

-WWE Open.

-Raw Open.

-Raw is LIVE from Oklahoma City, and Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler immediately plugged the farewell by Bret Hart (after the shots of the crowd, of course).

-Also tonight: Ted DiBiase vs. Randy Orton.

-But first, Shawn Michaels’ music hit, and HBK came to the ring. When he got to the ring, they showed clips of him costing Undertaker the title at Elimination Chamber, as well as Taker and Shawn’s confrontation last week. Crowd was solidly behind Shawn, and I think even he was surprised. Shawn said the buzz in the locker room is that he’s crazy for putting his career on the line at ‘Mania against Taker. He said no one believes he can beat Undertaker at Wrestlemania. However, he said no one has given Taker a run for his money at the event like he has. HBK said it was a fact that every man, woman and child knows that he’s Mr. Wrestlemania. He said that he believes he can end Undertaker’s Wrestlemania streak. But for his peers who don’t believe in him….he called them out to look him in the eye and tell him he can’t win. Triple H’s music played. Oh my.

The Game came to the ring and stood across the ring from Shawn Michaels. Shawn asked that Triple H of all people doesn’t believe in him? Triple H interrupted and said no, he doesn’t think Shawn can beat Taker at ‘Mania…..he KNOWS he can. Aw, I thought for sure they’d go with Triple H doubting Shawn. That would be interesting. Hunter said that he has wrestled anybody’s who’s anyone in this business the last 15 years, and Shawn is the best he’s ever been in the ring with. The truth is, Shawn has no peers in the locker room, and Shawn is in a class by himself, said Triple H, in full ass-kissing mode. Trips said the Road to Wrestlemania always takes them down different paths, but he said with 100% certainty that DX will never die (boo!), but it’ll be a long time before they’re in the ring together again (yay!). He said it would be bad for them to go out on a loss to Miz and Big Show, so he invoked their re-match clause. Tonight. That’s “a long time”? “DX” chant from the sycophant fans. Since titles don’t have to be defended for thirty days, Trips said that the night after Wrestelmania, 28 days from tonight, they’ll throw a DX-style celebration. Hunter said he believed in Shawn and believed that he’d still be around the night after Wrestlemania. He asked Michaels what HE believed. More “HBK” chants. Shawn said he believed they have some tag-team titles to win tonight. Really strong segment, even though again, I think it would’ve been cooler to see Triple H NOT on Shawn’s side.

-Cheech and Chong were backstage, checking out their “office.” The Bella Twins came in and greeted them. All four plugged the tour, and Cheech and Chong both said they’re nothing like the characters they portray. The Bellas took Cheech for a tour of the place and Tommy Chong sat down. He looked up and said he’s watched Raw enough to know that what he was seeing wasn’t a mirage- it was Hornswoggle. Horny came in and gave him a box of Lucky Charms, and told Chong to try some. He did, and the screen went all weird (as if he were on some sort of a “trip”). The picture swirled around the screen and the segment ended that very way.

-Next, DiBiase vs. Orton.

[Commercial Break]

(1) Randy Orton vs. Ted DiBiase
Orton worked over Teddy in the corner, then clotheslined him down. DiBiase turned the tables and gave some right hands to Orton in the corner. He set him on the top rope, but Orton fought out. Dropkick by DiBiase, then Orton was thrown to ringside. Orton avoided going face-first into the post, and he sent DiBiase into it instead. European uppercut on the outside. DiBiase escaped Orton’s wrath inside the ring and took a break at ringside. They went to commercial about two minutes in.

[Commercial Break]

DiBiase was dominating at this point, and might I add “seething” as well. It’s amazing how much crowd heat these two had in the ring the first time they teased a break-up, like three months ago, and now, no one seems to care about DiBiase. As for Orton, he’s more over as a face now, thanks in part to his feud with Sheamus. I don’t know if that’s what they’re going for, but jeez, talk about dropping the ball. Big boot to the face of the seated Orton for two. Another cover by DiBiase after a clothesline. Only got two, though. The way the match is building, they do seem to be setting Orton up as the face. After a few “boo, yay” punches, Orton got a scoop slam for two. Garvin stomp ensued. High knee-drop, then he began to measure DiBiase for an RKO. As he did so, Cody Rhodes ran down an dgot on the apron. Orton swung at him and missed and DiBiase rolled him up for a near-fall. Orton turned it into a roll-up of his own for a two-count. Rhodes then got involved, causing the referee to call for the bell.

Winner: Orton, via DQ, at 9:03. Solid enough match, but I just don’t get positioning Orton as the face and DiBiase and Rhodes as heels.

After taking a beating, Orton fought off DiBiase and Rhodes. DiBiase saved Rhodes from an Orton DDT.

-Still to come: ShoMiz vs. DX for the Unified Tag Titles.

[Commercial Break]

-A live shot of the parking lot, and a limo was there. Bret Hart, with a crutch and foot in a cast, got out and began walking to the backstage area.

-Chong was backstage, and he was petting Eve’s hair. He talked about a Divas pajama party or something. The music was really “groovy” and the screen was all wavy. Cheech walked in and asked Chong if he’s been eating that cereal…ya know, with sugar in it. He said Chong was diabetic, and assumed he was on a sugar trip. He asked Chong why he was petting William Regal’s hair. The screen went normal and Regal was in Eve’s place. He looked disgusted. Then Chris Masters walked in and Chong called him Kelly Kelly. Masters told Chong, with Kelly’s voice, to stop looking at her (his) chest. Then he walked out. Hornswoggle came in and tried to get Cheech to try some of the cereal. That was kinda funny.

-A video package of the Cena/Hart vs. McMahon/Batista feud aired.

-Cena….Batista….confrontation? That’s what the graphic hinted at, anyway.

[Commercial Break]

(2) Jack Swagger vs. Santino Marella – Money-In-The-Bank Qualifying Match
Cole gave some background about Swagger costing Marella a shot at the Rumble match. Yay for mentioning history between the two. Marella did his split to avoid a clothesline, but Swagger connected on his gutwrench powerbomb and ended things early.

Winner: Swagger, at :28. Decisive win for Swagger, as it should’ve been.

-Batista walked out of his locker room and was surrounded by security. He was heading to the ring for a possible confrontation with John Cena, next.

[Commercial Break]

- John Cena made his entrance into the arena. Cena noted that at Elimination Chamber, Batista screwed him out of the title. But he’s had time to think about it, and in the end, it was about business. A business decision between Vince and Batista. Cena said he’s never had a problem with Dave during their run in WWE, and even considered him a friend. But now, Batista apparently has a problem with him. The silver lining, he said, is that he’s going to Wrestlemania. He said he may need to pay Batista back, and that it should be done right now. Cena wasn’t really selling any of the injuries he sustained last week on Raw. Batista’s music blared over the speakers and he walked out, after a bevy of security.

He walked out in jeans, sunglasses and a black leather vest. Cena said he couldn’t believe that The Animal is now rolling with security. Batista said they’re here to protect Cena, not him. Batista said he should thank him for that and Cena suggested he come to the ring so he could thank him personally. He called Batista “a six-foot-six, 300 pound pansy.” Batista seemed bemused by that comment. He explained why he did what he did last week: Because he wants to face Cena at ‘Mania. Batista said his and Cena’s rise to the top of WWE were practically identical, even though the two of them couldn’t be any more different. He said they are the two biggest stars since the Attitude Era. They both won titles at Wrestlemania 21 and never looked back. He was angered that WWE has decided to label Cena as “the man,” the name and face of the company. He was pissed that the torch was passed from Steve Austin to him. First name drop for Austin, who will guest host in the next few weeks. Crowd interrupted Batista with “Cena” chants. He said he wanted a match with Cena to prove to everyone that he’s that much better than Cena. The other reason: He just can’t stand Cena.

Cena told Batista to focus up, because he wants to be WWE Champion, and he’ll do just that at Wrestlemania. Cena said he’s the man because he’s the first one to show up and the last one to leave, a guy who’s given his life to the business, while Batista expects the business to give back to HIM. He called Batista selfish. Batista said he’s here to make money, and doesn’t care what the fans think about him. He told Cena to keep kissing babies and hugging fat girls, while he’ll be in the gym training to beat Cena at ‘Mania. He reminded Cena that it wasn’t too long ago that he broke Cena’s neck. Cena got upset and asked if Batista wanted to know what he though; Batista said what he thinks is irrelevant. Batista told him to lay on the fans one of his fancy catchphrases, or inspiring words, since the entire WWE Universe wants to hear what he has to say. Batista said Cena can’t beat him, and deep down, even John knows it. He dropped the mic and held the belt over his head. Great promo exchange: The lines in the sand are clearly drawn after this one.

-Tonight, the farewell to (and from) Bret Hart.

-Also, DX challenges ShoMiz for the Unified Tag Titles.

[Commercial Break]

-Cole plugged the MITB trivia game on WWE.com.

-Backstage, Hornswoggle, Cheech & Chong were there with Chavo Guerrero, who had a fake mustache and a sombrero on. To the left of Chong was Primo and Carlito, with mustaches and red stocking caps like Cheech had on. Primo said they hate each other….and they’re Puerto Rican. Katie Lea was to the right of Chavo, also with a mustache, and she told them she was British. Yoshi was there with a mustache too. Cheech was about to give away the ending to “Lost,” (he plays Hurley’s dad) when Santino (apparently as a rooster) came in, and said the Divas pajama pillow-fight would be up soon.

(3) Zach Ryder vs. MVP- Money-In-The-Bank Qualifying Match
Overhead throw by MVP, followed by a face-buster. Rosa was at ringside with Ryder. “Ballin’!” elbowdrop early on, but Rosa tried to get in the ring. MVP hit the Playmaker for the win.

Winner: MVP, at :44. A squash, nothing more. And I thought they made Ryder look pretty good on Superstars this past week.

-Gail Kim, Eve and Kelly Kelly were backstage in their pajamas and with their pillows…the pajama pillow-fight is next.

[Commercial Break]

-Justin Roberts introduced Cheech and Chong to a crowd who probably had no idea who they were. They came out to “Low Rider.” “Welcome to Monday Night Raw!” screamed Chong. Cheech reminded him that the show has been on for an hour-and-a-half. Cheech said they were out to introduce the participants of the Divas Pajama Pillow Fight. Kelly Kelly, Gail Kim and Eve Torres came out first.

(4) Kelly Kelly vs. Gail Kim vs. Eve Torres vs. Maryse vs. Alicia Fox vs. Jillian Hall – Divas Pajama Pillow-Fight

Not sure what the rules are here, but all the Divas were ganging up on Maryse. I guess it isn’t a tag match? Jillian took out everyone, then screamed, and Kelly shut her up with a pillow to the mouth. Legdrop by Kelly for two. Maryse DDT’d Kelly for two, but Kim and Eve pounded her with the feathers. Neck-breaker by Gail, but Eve interrupted a pin. Alicia with a clothesline on both women. Kim landed her finisher on Alicia as the guest hosts watched from leather chairs at ringside. Gail was sent to the outside by Eve. Somersault legdrop by Eve on Alicia for the win.

Winner: Eve, at 1:58. Cole: “What an awesome match!”

Hornswoggle came out and gave a few boxes of cereal to the guys, and they threw the contents into the crowd in apparent jubilation. Lawler tried to eat some, but Lawler stopped him, as they still have a main event to call. “Vintage Hornswoggle!” shouted Cole.

- The latest inductee into the Class of 2010: Maurice “Mad Dog” Vachon. He’ll be inducted by WWE Hall-of-Famer Pat Patterson. I guessed Luna.

-The Farewell from Bret Hart is next.

[Commercial Break]

-Cole and Lawler talked about NXT, then they segued into hyping the Wrestlemania card.

-Justin Roberts was about to introduce Bret Hart when Vince McMahon’s music began to play, and the Chairman walked out. McMahon said he wanted the honor of introducing Hart tonight. McMahon said he is the Best There Is, The Best There Was, and The Best There Ever Will Be, the Excellence of Execution, and someone Vince has the utmost respect for, Bret Hart. That’s not what he said a few weeks ago. Anyway, Bret limped out with his crutch, but didn’t seem to be using it much. As he came down, a video of Bret and Vince’s feud aired, focusing on the accident. Vince asked Bret to clear his name in terms of having anything to do with the accident a few weeks ago. Bret said he doesn’t know if that’s true or not, but since he returned to WWE, Vince has treated him like a piece of garbage. If Vince is true to his word about letting him have his final farewell, he suggested Vince get the hell out of the ring.

“I’m sorry you feel that way,” said Vince. McMahon said one more thing: Bret has called him a World Champion liar, and if you’re going to be a liar, why not be a World Champion. McMahon said he lied when he said Bret would be here to give his final farewell. Vince said he screwed Bret again, and it feels good. Vince then remembered that Bret challenged him to a match at Wrestlemania. Wow, this is 100% crazy Vince here. Hart said he’s currently incapacitated. McMahon said Bret was right, but he didn’t seem to notice. Vince said that even a dried-up fossil like Bret can heal up in six weeks. He said Bret didn’t come back to WWE to make things right, but to fight Vince. At this point, the camera focused on Bret’s sunglasses, where you could see the reflection of the hunched-over, evil Vince cutting his promo. Pretty sweet. Bret admitted he wanted to fight Vince. Vince then egged Bret on to fight him at ‘Mania. He reminded Bret that he’s the guy who screwed him and sent him to WCW. He also lied to Bret when he said he’d put Bret’s dad in the Hall-of-Fame. He was trying to give Bret motivation for fighting him at ‘Mania. He implored Bret to do it for his fans all over the world. He said Bret may not be 100%, but he’s a Canadian Hero! He told Bret not to let the people down. He polled the audience, and they wanted Bret vs. Vine at ‘Mania.

Bret said McMahon was trying to goad him into a match, but he can’t wrestle. “I’ve got a broken leg, idiot.” Vince approached Bret and said he hates to hear those words. McMahon stuck his finger in Bret’s chest and accused him of having no heart. McMahon said Bret has let his fans down, let him down and everyone else down. “You’re a coward!” said Vince. He then kicked Bret’s crutch away from him, and Bret crumpled to the ground. McMahon strutted around the ring with a limp. Vince left the ring and Bret picked up the microphone. Bret then agreed to the Wrestlemania match, which put a big smile on Vince’s face. Bret’s music played, but when Vince got to the top of the ramp, he told Bret that he’s 100%, unlike Bret, and to prove it, he’d have a match next week against perhaps Bret’s biggest fan: John Cena. Really good segment. Does Bret reveal his leg is OK at a contract signing, or do they wait ‘til ‘Mania?

-ShoMiz were walking backstage. The main event is next.


[Commercial Break]

-The Mindfreak himself, Criss Angel, will be the guest host next week.

-Also next week, Randy Orton faces Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase, 2-on-1.

-And, Mr. McMahon has challenged John Cena to a match for next week as well.

-Both teams in the main event made their entrance for the match, which begins after break.

[Commercial Break]

(5) DeGeneration X vs. The Big Show & The Miz- Unified Tag Team Championship Match
Show and Miz kept Michaels grounded as the match began as soon as Raw returned from commercial. Lots of quick tags by the heels, and Big Show got in one of his big punches. Show even taunted Michaels. Bear-hug applied. Show grabbed Michaels by the throat, but HBK jumped away and tagged in Hunter. Face-buster on the knee by The Game, then a spinebuster, visibly aided by Show. Miz interfered before Hunter could hit a Pedigree. Chokeslam for Trips by Show, but HBK gave him a superkick. Crowd was hot for this. Triple H couldn’t make the pin though, as he was still out from the chokeslam. It took ‘til the count of nine for both men to reach their feet. They both made tags and HBK was a house afire, hitting all of his vintage offense. Elbowdrop off the top wet up for the superkick. But Taker’s face appeared on the Titan-Tron as Shawn was tuning up the band. He just stared and rolled his eyes back into his head. Shawn turned around and attempted a superkick, but Miz grabbed his leg and turned it into a jackknife cover for the win (and a quick three-count?).

Winners: ShoMiz, at 4:20. An appropriate match time for the guest hosts, I suppose.

Hunter tried to console Shawn after the match, but HBK told him not to touch him. Shawn stormed out of the ringside area. After he left, Sheamus came out of the crowd and attacked Triple H. He clotheslined Trips to the outside and worked him over in front of the announce table. “Sheamus sucks” chants, so he’s got the heel heat. He waited ‘til Triple H got to his feet, then bicycle kicked him onto (and over) the announce table. Sheamus stood on said table in triumph. Then, his music played. That’s awfully nice of the sound guys. They replayed portions of his attack, then went back to him standing, arms raised, on the table for the final image of the show.

[geemoney]

Rob Van Dam has signed with TNA, expected to debut tomorrow.

[MrMarlinPride]

geemoney, on March 7, 2010 - 03:36 PM, said:

Rob Van Dam has signed with TNA, expected to debut tomorrow.

He signed a while ago and he is the thing TNA has promoted to be on in the 1st 5 Minutes!

[JetsMania]

We'll see what happens. Sting is also supposed to be on.