Monday Night RAW 5-6-2024

As the opening video package ends, pyro explodes on the stage as the crowd in Tampa, Florida is erupting in cheers. The cameras pan through the crowd, showing off various signs reading things like “Diesel was Screwed!”, “Young Bucks Aren’t My Tag Champs!”, “Tiffy Time is Over!” and more. After doing a pan of the Amalie Arena, the cameras settle in on the commentary table where we see the team of Michael Cole and Wade Barrett.



MICHAEL COLE: Good evening, and welcome to Monday Night RAW, the flagship show of WWE!

WADE BARRETT: It’s bound to be a bloody action packed evening for us, Cole! These superstars coming straight off of our Backlash event are ready to begin their road to Unforgiven.

MICHAEL COLE: Some are more prepared than others it seems, Wade. Sami Zayn and the Young Bucks have captured their first championships in the new era and you have to imagine they are pretty pleased with themselves. Tonight, we might just get their reactions and hopefully some words from the new champions.

WADE BARRETT: We also have our defending champions coming off Backlash who might have something to say. Serena and Swerve sure were impressive in their respective title defenses. Although, we do have what seems to be some controversy spreading around about our main event between Swerve and Diesel.

MICHAEL COLE: I’m sure that and much more is going to be up for discussion tonight amongst our Co-Owners. Jade Cargill is another thing the WWE Universe is very excited to be talking about. She seemed to appear just in time to eat up praise off our WWE Women’s Champion’s coattails after she defeated Tiffany Stratton.

WADE BARRETT: Well tonight, she’s looking to pick up her own first victory when she takes on Fallon Henley. I have high hopes for her, Cole, she’s an absolute powerhouse in the ring and could be in either of our women’s championship match pictures sooner than the rest of these ladies know.

MICHAEL COLE: Speaking of pictures, this multi-man match could really open up an opportunity for one of these superstars to take him some serious bragging rights. A Fatal-4-Way elimination match with Kazuchika Okada, Austin Creed, Corey Graves and Charlie Dempsey!

WADE BARRETT: I know who I’m rooting for, he was part of our announce team on Sunday Night HEAT, Corey Graves. I hope he’s got what it takes to still compete in the ring and do us proud!

MICHAEL COLE: I would’ve figured you’d be rooting for Charlie Dempsey, a fellow countryman for you. He’s definitely got the scrappiness to get the job done I’d imagine.

WADE BARRETT: If you want to talk about a scrappy superstar, Christian Cage is the man that comes to my mind. Tonight he’s taking on a very angry Jacob Fatu, though. Vampiro has been giving him some tough love, so I’d have to imagine he’s eager to dish some of that pain onto Christian tonight.

MICHAEL COLE: I’m excited to see what sort of pain the ladies in our first women’s tag team match since Stephanie McMahon and Triple H took control of the company dish out to each other. Liv 4 Brutality is facing the odds of the supernaturally inclined Unholy Union tonight, what do you think about that match Wade?

WADE BARRETT: I think if the Unholy Union of Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn have any real supernatural powers, they’ll be walking out with a very real advantage against any team that steps in their path.

MICHAEL COLE: Rhea and Liv certainly better hope that’s not the case. A very vocal Dakota Kai is gonna be looking for any advantage she can take tonight as well to win this upcoming triple threat match against Momo Watanabe and Maxxine Dupri.

WADE BARRETT: Momo has made her intentions very clear as well, she wants some gold and she’s willing to stomp anyone in her path to get there. Should make things very interesting with Maxxine added into the match to see if she can take advantage of this situation for herself and deny both ladies.

MICHAEL COLE: Jay White must be hoping for a victory here tonight as well. Stephanie was none too pleased with him the last time they came across each other. Logan Paul has been selected tonight to try and teach him a lesson in what he should expect his competition to be like in his future.

WADE BARRETT: Well I certainly wouldn’t want my contracted superstars simply resting on their laurels and collecting a paycheck. Jay is certainly going to have to earn his paycheck tonight, a very angry Logan is nipping at his heels after a tough loss at Backlash to Sami Zayn. I certainly wouldn’t want to be the man across the ring from him!

MICHAEL COLE: Well let’s not hold back the WWE Universe any longer, Wade! It’s about time we got to the action and really let the road to Unforgiven begin with this week's episode of Monday Night RAW!

”Superkick Party” hits the P.A. system and the crowd comes to their collective feet as Matt and Nick Jackson appear at the top of the ramp, the WWE Tag Team Championships around their waist. They pose at the top doing their trademark flexing as cannons of confetti go off and the two of them make their way down to the ring.

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen please welcome, the NEWWW WWE Tag Team Champions, The Yooounnng Buuucks!

MICHAEL COLE: What a way to start our show tonight! Our new Tag Team Champions are on their way down to the ring, Wade.

WADE BARRETT: They did it, Cole. They said they would do it and they did. Gotta hand it to them.

MICHAEL COLE: Well, certainly under suspicious circumstances as a newly hired referee made his way down to the ring and made the count.

WADE BARRETT: Cole, what are you trying to get at!? Newly hired referee?! He’s a referee! Who cares when he was hired?

MICHAEL COLE: Oh Wade, stop! You’ve heard the rumors just like I’ve heard them. Referee Rick Knox has had a long and storied history with the Young Bucks, following them around to each and every wrestling promotion they’ve been to in their career and now he winds up here in WWE? And makes the deciding three count in their title match?

WADE BARRETT: Take off your tinfoil hat, Cole. It doesn’t suit you.

The Bucks are in the ring and being handed a microphone as their music fades. The crowd is booing very loudly. They are not Young Bucks’ fans and that is very clear.

NICK JACKSON: Tampa, Florida. Say hello to your new WWE Tag Team Champions!

More boos, even louder than before now.

MATT JACKSON: Boo us all you want, but you all out there cannot deny that we are your Tag Team Champions. I know you’re all used to seeing a different set of Executive Vice Presidents come out and start every show, but we figured we’d shake it up a bit as Executive Vice Presidents as well! Plus, we have some big gold belts we’re carrying around now! We said we were going to go out there and do it and we did it. And there was nothing that Stevie Richards and Rip Van Punkle could do about it!

NICK JACKSON: Rip Van Punkle, I love it!

Matt tries to get the crowd to chant the newly christened nickname.

MATT JACKSON: Rip Van Punkle! Rip Van Punkle! Come on, Tampa!

Just more boos.

NICK JACKSON: The name makes sense, Matt. I’m sure it’s lost on these idiots here in Tampa. Rip Van Winkle is a story we read to our kids all the time. To summarize so you can guys can follow along without getting too lost in the weeds with this plot - -

Matt continues for Nick.

MATT JACKSON: Rip Van Winkle falls asleep for a long time and wakes up expecting things to be the same, but they’re not. He’s blown away by all the changes and how different the world is around him. You see, CM Punk, that’s you. You’ve been gone for far too long, although we’d say not long enough. Now that you’re back though, you can’t hang with big dogs of tag team wrestling. You can’t compete with the best of the best. The world has since passed you by and you’re left to sit there and wonder how it happened.

NICK JACKSON: Rip Van Punkle, you’re just a long white beard away from befitting the role you were born to play. I know you guys are sitting there in the back and chomping at the bit to demand a rematch but do yourselves a favor…just stay back there. Don’t make a mistake you can’t recover from. Because we proved, beyond a shadow of a doubt, you cannot hang with Nick and Matt Jackson, the Young Bu - -

He’s cut off not by music, but by the sounds of an annoyed and angered CM Punk.

CM PUNK: Shut your damn mouth, Nick.

The crowd cheers wildly as CM Punk and Stevie Richards appear at the top of the ramp. Punk has a shirt collar in his hand and that shirt collar is attached to new WWE referee Rick Knox as he’s pulling him out on the ramp with them.

MICHAEL COLE: As the man who came before us used to say, Wade, business is about to pick up!

WADE BARRETT: They’re assaulting the referee!

STEVIE RICHARDS: I’m sure you guys are familiar with our friend here, no?

Nick and Matt do not play along.

MATT JACKSON: We have no idea who that man is.

NICK JACKSON: I think he might be a WWE employee. You should probably unhand him.

CM PUNK: No, I don’t think I will. See, while you guys play dumb, we know exactly who this is. This is new WWE referee, Rick Knox, and he is in the Young Bucks’ pocket.

NICK JACKSON: That’s preposterous!

STEVIE RICHARDS: We will grant you this, we can’t prove that he’s in your guys’ pocket, but all the signs are there and it certainly seems to make sense.

MATT JACKSON: You guys are just being sore losers! It’s not the referee’s fault you guys lost!

STEVIE RICHARDS: Is it?

CM PUNK: It’s strange that a referee of a world class wrestling promotion would make such an egregious error like counting the wrong person in a pinfall or blatantly ignoring the use of a foreign object like a steel chair.

MATT JACKSON: You guys can’t be serious!

CM PUNK: We aren’t ones to complain. If we were beaten, we will stand out here and say that we were beaten. When there’s an abuse of power and we are screwed out of our titles, we’re going to come out here and make it right.

MATT JACKSON: If you want to make it right, you’ll turn around and walk out of this arena and never come back.

CM PUNK: That would be the easy way out … for you. Let me make this clear, we’re not letting you two off that easy. We’re going to get our tag team championships back AND make it clear that what happened at Backlash was a travesty of justice.

STEVIE RICHARDS: You’re right, Punkster! And, you two goobers can recite all the fairy tales and poems you want, but the only story that matters is the one where The Best Tag Team in the World regains the WWE Tag Team Championships!

Huge reaction from the crowd.

NICK JACKSON: Yeah? That sounds like a VERY unlikely story from where we’re standing!

STEVIE RICHARDS: See, that’s where you’re wrong! The four of us are going to get back in the ring and this dork the Punkster has by the collar ain’t going to have a thing to do with it!

MATT JACKSON: Listen to Stevie Richards here and his conspiracies! You two are the ones with the people and the WWE itself on your side, yet it’s YOU TWO who are claiming things are unfair? Give me a break!

WADE BARRETT: He’s right Cole, Stevie sounds ridiculous!

MICHAEL COLE: How?! From where I’m sitting, the former WWE Tag Team Champions have a valid complaint.

CM PUNK: I’ll tell you what we WILL give you, and that’s an opportunity to prove you can beat The Best Tag Team in the World without your boy here.

Punk finishes his statement by referencing Rick Knox. The Young Bucks stand in the ring looking at one another, thinking Stevie’s comment over.

NICK JACKSON: It doesn’t work like that, fellas. See, we’re calling the shots now and IF and WHEN we decide you’re worthy of OUR respect, we’ll let you know!

Stevie throws his hands up, clearly frustrated. Punk shakes his head, letting go of Rick Knox who scurries away.

CM PUNK: This might be a fun little game for you guys now, but I can promise you that you will not like how this story ends.

MATT JACKSON: Rip Van Punkle! If you’ve got a problem with it, why don’t you go pay Stephanie McMahon a visit, but make sure you make an appointment. Speaking as Executive Vice Presidents ourselves, it’s not an open door policy.

Punk glares down at the Tag Team Champions as “Superkick Party” starts playing again on the P.A. Nick and Matt jump up on a corner and hold the titles up as the crowd litters them with boos.

WADE BARRETT: Sound logic from the WWE Tag Team Champions if you’re asking me.

MICHAEL COLE: Nonsense, Wade. Sounds like the Bucks are ducking a rematch with Punk and Stevie.

WADE BARRETT: Nick and Matt won fair and square!

MICHAEL COLE: You can’t be serious, Wade. There was nothing fair about that win.

WADE BARRETT: Whatever helps you sleep at night, Cole.

MICHAEL COLE: Well, while we may have to agree to disagree on that issue, I think something we can both agree on is that our opening contest tonight is going to be one of the most exciting matches in recent memory! Jade Cargill makes her WWE debut as she takes on Fallon Henley!

WADE BARRETT: This is going to be one that nobody wants to miss!

”Saddle Up” by def rebel begins to play on the speakers and the crowd starts to cheer as Fallon Henley comes out to the top of the ramp. Looking out at the crowd with a smile, Fallon strikes a confident pose for the crowd before making her way down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, making her way to the ring, Fallooon Heeenleeey!

MICHAEL COLE: Fallon Henley has had a rough go in the women’s division, but I love that she keeps pushing forward and never gives up!

WADE BARRETT: It’s that kind of attitude that will pay off as long as she keeps it up! She’s hungry to improve and show that she belongs here!

Fallon reaches the bottom of the ramp, slapping a few outstretched hands of fans in the front row. Making her way over to the steel steps, she confidently makes her way up to the apron and steps into the ring, walking over to the closest corner and climbing up to the second turnbuckle, raising both of her arms confidently into the air as she gives another beaming smile to the crowd. Jumping back down to the mat, Fallon begins to swing her arms and roll her shoulders to warm up as her music fades out. The lights in the arena now dim, and suddenly a voice is heard over the speakers…

A storm...is coming.

“Epic” by Mikey Rukus begins to play on the speakers and the crowd’s cheers turn into a more mixed reaction as a spotlight shines on the stage and Jade Cargill steps into the spotlight, flexing her arms to show off her biceps before bringing her arms down and striking a pose as she looks down towards the ring at Fallon Henley before making her way down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And her opponent, making her way to the ring, That Bitch, Jaaade Carrrgiiill!

MICHAEL COLE: This woman is unlike anything we’ve ever seen in the WWE, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: You're absolutely right about that, Cole! Her physique, her presence, her aura…she’s the total package! We’re looking at the future of the women’s division if you ask me!

As the lights come back up in the arena, Jade reaches the bottom of the ramp, looking at Fallon Henley waiting for her in the ring with a smirk on her face. Walking over to the steel steps, Jade slowly, methodically makes her way up to the apron, staring Fallon Henley down before stepping through the ropes. Striding confidently to the center of the ring, Jade outstretches her hands once again as she strikes another pose, before taking off her sunglasses and walking over to the top rope, dropping them to the ringside attendant. As her music fades out, she slowly turns to look at Fallon Henley, who looks very apprehensive about what she’s gotten herself into.

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The bell rings and Fallon Henley takes a deep breath as she looks at Jade Cargill, who just looks at her with a smirk. With a very visible gulp, Fallon decides to move quickly and runs towards Jade, nailing her with a kick to the midsection. Jade, however, doesn’t even flinch, as she just looks at Fallon as the smirk on her face grows wider. Fallon is visibly rattled that the kick made no impact, but she strikes again, this time hitting Cargill with a reverse knife edge chop! And then another one! Despite being chopped twice in the chest, Jade doesn’t even look fazed as she now begins to laugh.

MICHAEL COLE: Fallon Henley just kicked and chopped Jade Cargill, and it’s like all she got was a slap on the wrist!

WADE BARRETT: Fallon Henley is really going to have to dig deep if she wants to stand any chance against Jade Cargill, this woman is an absolute specimen!

It seems as though Fallon knows this, because she now hits the ropes and when she comes back she looks for a clothesline but Jade sidesteps the attempt and grabs Fallon around the throat! Fallon’s eyes are wide with fear when suddenly Jade lifts her up and sends her crashing down to the mat with a chokeslam!

MICHAEL COLE: Oh my God, look at the power of Jade Cargill!

WADE BARRETT: I have a feeling that Fallon Henley is in some serious trouble right now!

The crowd is buzzing at the display of strength by Jade Cargill, and she just looks down at Fallon Henley with that same smirk she’s been wearing this entire time. Reaching down, she grabs Fallon by the hair and pulls her up to her feet before grabbing both arms and pulling them behind Henley’s back and then lifting her up into the air and then slamming her back down to the mat with the Double Chickenwing Facebuster she called Jaded! In one fluid motion, Jade turns Fallon over onto her back and hooks her leg for the pin, 1…2…3! Jade Cargill wins her debut match!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, That Bitch, JAAADE CARRRGIIILL!

MICHAEL COLE: Jade Cargill with a definitive win here tonight, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: That was one of the most impressive displays of strength I’ve seen in quite some time, Cole. Jade Cargill just put Fallon Henley away like she was absolutely nothing. I think it’s safe to say that the entire women’s division has just been put on notice!

”Epic” begins to play again as Jade stands up, brushing her hands together as she can be seen saying “that was too easy”. The referee raises her hand in the air, signifying her victory, before she pulls her arm away and flexes for the crowd again. Looking down at Fallon Henley, Jade laughs as she wipes her boots off in Fallon’s direction before walking to the ropes and exiting the ring, jumping down to the floor and walking up the ramp, calling out to the crowd that they haven’t seen anything yet. She gets to the top of the ramp and turns to look at Fallon Henley, who is now sitting up and looking up at her with a dejected expression on her face. Cargill just laughs and shakes her head before turning to the back, and Fallon rolls out of the ring under the bottom rope, taking a second to catch her breath before nodding and turning to go up the ramp, slapping some hands that are reaching out to her from the front row, thanking the fans for their continued support in her as she heads up towards the back.

The cameras go to the backstage area, and we see Paul Heyman standing in the hallway and having a private conversation with someone on the phone. It appears that he has no knowledge of the fact that there are cameras filming him, when suddenly Cathy Kelley comes into the shot for an interview.

CATHY KELLEY: Paul Heyman! Are you on the phone with your client, Logan Paul?

Heyman looks very annoyed that he was rudely taken away from his business. It couldn't have been of too much importance, because he closes the phone without hesitation. A big smirk comes across Heyman's face.



PAUL HEYMAN: No, Cathy, I am not on the phone with Logan Paul.

Heyman is very intentional with the way he speaks. Making sure to emphasize words and make everything he says crystal clear. Before he starts again, he sighs, as if Logan Paul isn't of importance.

PAUL HEYMAN: I no longer work with Mr. Paul. Urgent matters have come up, which has left me in a bit of a predicament. Because I have been approached by the biggest star in our industry, which means that I have bigger business to attend to these days. Cathy Kelley, I am about to send waves crashing throughout the WWE!

CATHY KELLEY: Who was it, Paul?

PAUL HEYMAN: Situations like these don't just happen every day. This has to be handled very delicately. There are still some loose ends to tie up on our end. But if things all go as planned.

Heyman stops mid-sentence, and his expression changes to a man in deep thought. It's as if he is trying to pull some sort of knowledge from buried deep in his head.

PAUL HEYMAN: You may know as early as next week on Raw!

Heyman drops a bombshell that he has something big planned for next week. It leaves Cathy without much to say, and Paul Heyman takes a second before pulling his phone back out and walking off the camera and letting it cut back to ringside.

WADE BARRETT: Paul Heyman has a big surprise for us next week, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: It makes you wonder what happened to his relationship with Logan Paul! What - - or should I say, who - - does he have in store for the WWE?

WADE BARRETT: Brock Lesnar? Roman Reigns? He said the biggest name in our industry, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: Your guess is as good as mine! It didn't take him long to dump Paul like a bad habit! I have a feeling that man is going to shake things up in a week from now! Paul Heyman always has something up his sleeve.

WADE BARRETT: He sure does! Could it be John Cena? What about The Big Show? That’s literally a big name!

Once again, the cameras go backstage, this time to the office of WWE Co-Owner Stephanie McMahon. Stephanie is seated at her desk, her hands clasped in front of her and a smile on her face as she addresses the WWE Universe.



STEPHANIE MCMAHON: Good evening, Tampa, Florida! I hope you’re all enjoying tonight’s edition of Monday Night RAW so far. As always, we’re committed to bringing you the hottest action in professional wrestling, and tonight I have a special announcement to make. As everyone knows, last week at Backlash Sami Zayn overcame The Maverick Logan Paul to become the new Intercontinental Champion. Now, I know that Logan Paul is eager to have his rematch against Sami Zayn, however, after tonight Logan Paul will be taking some time away from WWE to focus on some other projects.

Stephanie pauses as the crowd in Tampa erupts into thunderous cheers at this news. After a moment, they quiet down and she continues on.

STEPHANIE MCMAHON: So, with that being said, we need to find a challenger for Sami Zayn in just a few weeks at our next Premium Live Event, Unforgiven. And that’s exactly what we’re going to do tonight, because the winner of the match between Jacob Fatu and Christian Cage will go on to challenge Sami Zayn for the Intercontinental Championship when we take over Green Bay, Wisconsin!

Stephanie once again pauses briefly as the crowd cheers this announcement before she continues.

STEPHANIE MCMAHON: Jacob, Christian, this is a huge opportunity for the both of you and I know that neither of you will be taking this lightly. I know that I’ll be watching this match closely, I’m sure Sami Zayn will be watching closely, and of course, the WWE Universe will be watching closely. Best of luck to you both, and may the best man win.

With a nod, Stephanie gets up from her desk, heading towards the door to exit her office as the cameras go to the interview area and to a sight no one would ever think they’d see again. Corey Graves is standing next to Cathy Kelley, but not in some colorful suit combination. No, he is wearing torn jeans, a black pair of suspenders with no shirt, and a leather vest that has spikes coming off his shoulders. By his side is Carmella, and she is dressed up looking a lot more punk than we’ve ever seen her before. Cathy looks a tad uncomfortable as she begins the interview.

CATHY KELLEY: I’m here with a man I’ve worked with since I walked into this company, but looking a way I’ve never seen him before, Corey Graves. Corey, I think we all would say congratulations on being cleared to go back into the ring. But if I’m being honest, I hardly recognize you standing in front of me when I think of my colleague of the last few years.

Corey is taken aback a bit by that comment. He cocks his head like a dog hearing an unfamiliar command, but then leans into the microphone.

COREY GRAVES: You may not recognize the man in front of you, but you are going to get to know him real fast. Ten years, Cathy. For ten years I cut off a part of myself because it was the only way to get through the day. Ten years ago, I was told my dreams were dead, shattered at my feet and I needed to find new dreams. I did that, I swallowed the pain and contorted myself to fit into new dreams.

A sneer comes across Graves’ face.

COREY GRAVES: I put on suits, I watered myself down, I played clown so that the people out there would love me. I twisted myself so much that I barely recognized who I was in the mirror anymore. And for years I told myself it’s what needed to be done so that I could stay in the industry that I loved. That being the next Michael Cole, Jim Ross or Jesse Ventura was enough for me. When the truth is, the truth is I knew I could be the next Bret Hart, Kurt Angle or Steve Austin. I shuck and jived for the people for a decade, but now the dancing is over, and the violence can return.

CATHY KELLEY: Well, you have a tall order with the three opponents you have tonight, all with very different styles. What’s it like to prepare for a match like that?

The sneer on Graves’ face turns to a crooked smile as he looks over at Carmella at his side.

COREY GRAVES: Those three aren’t opponents, they are future victims. Because here’s what is going to happen tonight. Tonight, I’m going to bring a part of me back to life. I’m going to awaken a sleeping predator that I thought would never be allowed out again. Many of the fans don’t remember who I was before I got behind the desk, but they are about to learn. The world is about to be reminded of who the Savior of Misbehavior is. Okada, Creed, Dempsey…three names ready to be the foundation to a list of bodies I drop at my feet. This new era of WWE, it’s about to be the Graves Era. I’m going to walk to that ring and pick apart three men who had no idea a week ago that the guy they were laughing with at catering, trying to butter up so he’d sing their praises during their matches to the television audience would be the guy who is about to shorten or end their careers. These three men are about to be the first in a long line of WWE Superstars to learn the lesson that when you step in the ring with Corey Graves, the only way to survive is to…

Corey puts his fists together side by side to read the knuckle tattoo “STAY DOWN”. He then throws his arm around Carmella, gives a wink to a very confused looking Cathy Kelley as they walk out of frame to prepare for the match and the cameras go back to ringside.

MICHAEL COLE: Strong words from Corey Graves!

WADE BARRETT: This is the match I’m most curious about tonight, Cole, I have to admit. I can’t wait to see what Graves has in store for us!

”Furi” by Boris hits the arenas speakers as Kazuchika Okada makes his way out onto the stage and money falls from the ceiling. The golden robe wrapped around him is flowing behind him as he makes his way down the ramp and keeps his focus on the ring as he ignores the fans in attendance completely. The fans are too busy picking up the money only to realize it has Okada’s face plastered on it.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Our first participant for this elimination fatal four-way match is, Kaaazuuuchiiikaaa Oookaaadaaa!

”Corporate Player” by Jim Johnston now begins to play as Austin Creed moonwalks his way out onto the stage and the fans cheer. They’re glad to see an old face they are familiar with as Creed slaps a few hands on the way down and checks out the competition of Okada in the ring to size him up as he makes his way to the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And our second competitor, Auuustiiin Creeeeed!

MICHAEL COLE: Well this match is just going to be jam packed with some new talent! Austin Creed is a great return to the WWE though and I look forward to seeing what he can do.

WADE BARRETT: Hopefully Okada can find his rhythm in this match as well. He’s known the world over and from the things I’m hearing he might be the man to watch in this one.

MICHAEL COLE: I’m just excited to see so many new faces, I’m not sure which one I’m gonna be watching!

WADE BARRETT: All of them, Cole, that’s our job!

”Crawl” by def rebel begins to play as Charlie Dempsey comes out with his fist up before he punches forward and makes his way down to the ring with the swagger of a professional fighter as he cracks his neck from side to side.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And the third participant of this match, Chaaarliiieee Deeempseeeyyy!

"Christcontrol" by Cancer Killing Gemini now hits and the fans cheer for the appearance of former color commentator, Corey Graves. His return to the ring is something that nobody had expected but the opportunity has arrived, and he’s thriving in it as he grins for the fans' reception to him.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And the final participant, making his return to the ring for the first time in ten years, The Savior of Misbehavior, Coooreeeyyyy Graaaveees!

MICHAEL COLE: There he is, Wade, one of our old broadcast partners! Corey Graves has dreamed of being a WWE superstar since he was five years old, he did everything to get to this stage, and his time was cut short during his run in our developmental system.

WADE BARRETT: A true professional at the broadcast desk through and through, Cole. Graves was one of the most promising prospects during his run in developmental, and they were looking to call him up when tragedy struck. Now it’s his opportunity to run with the ball and I wish him the best of luck!

MICHAEL COLE: Let’s see if he can beat my record of wins in a WWE ring. You know I still hold the record for most successful commentator to wrestle in a WWE ring, right?

WADE BARRETT: Cole, nobody cares what you did in the ring.

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As Grave walks up the steel steps, he slaps the top one before walking along the apron and eating up the crowd's cheers for him. The other participants of the match are keeping their eyes on each other as they wait for the match to begin. Graves steps in and now each man’s eyes dart from one person to the next as they tentatively wait for the first to strike and the bell rings to start the match. Okada is the first to make his move as he rushes forward and hits a knee to the gut of Dempsey before he palms him by the face and shoves him to the ground. Creed now rushes in towards Okada and gets hit with a back body drop from Okada as he rolls out of the ring while holding his back in pain. Graves now stares down Okada across from him and motions for him to bring it, but Okada merely responds in kind with his own wave of his hand to come get him. The two then rush for each other and begin to unload with right-handed shots as they go faster and faster before Okada reels back and throws a hard elbow. Graves staggers for a moment before reeling back and nailing one that looks equally as hard to Okada. Both men now rush forward and it’s a double clothesline that takes both men out as the crowd pops loud!

MICHAEL COLE: What a start to this match!

WADE BARRETT: These men are going to have to hit hard and fast to eliminate the competition, Cole! Survival is the key and eliminating your opponents is the only way to make things easier for you.

Creed climbs up onto the apron as he climbs to the top rope and walks along before delivering his Limit Break Elbow onto Dempsey whose body convulses on the canvas for a moment. Creed doesn’t even have a chance to go for the cover though as Okada tosses him over the top rope out of the ring again, before pulling Dempsey up by the waist and spins him around into a RAINMAKER that turns Dempsey inside out. Graves now grabs Okada from behind and tosses Okada into the turnbuckle corner shoulder first before the cover is made on Dempsey, 1…2…3!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Charlie Dempsey has been eliminated!

Creed is back in the ring now, and he clubs Graves from behind and sends him tumbling out of the ring. Creed appears incensed with what’s been happening so far as he grabs Okada by the hair and pulls him up around the waist and nails a wheelbarrow facebuster on him before rolling around for the pin, 1…2…NO! Okada gets the shoulder up and Creed slaps the canvas in frustration.

MICHAEL COLE: Creed certainly doesn’t appreciate being tossed from the ring in the early goings.

WADE BARRETT: He’s a man on a mission, he wants to prove himself as a singles competitor.

MICHAEL COLE: Well if he can stay focused and on top of these two, he might just make an impact here tonight.

Graves slides back into the ring and Creed rolls forward and kips up to nail an Honor Roll lariat that flips over Graves. Okada is back up now and Creed turns around dropkicks him before screaming as he runs back to Graves who is pulling himself up in the turnbuckle corner and dropkicks him into it before he backflips back onto his feet and pulls at his hair as he’s really amped up now. He doesn’t see Okada from behind this time though as he’s grabbed around the waist and spun into a RAINMAKER that turns him inside out as Graves comes out of the corner and jumps up with his knees into the back of Okada and nails a backstabber that takes him down. Graves now grabs Creed up by the hair and it’s a back-to-belly set-up that turns into a piledriver, MK ULTRA! Before Graves can make the cover, Okada is back to his feet and he shoves Graves down before going for the cover on Austin Creed, 1…2…3!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Austin Creed has been eliminated!

WADE BARRETT: It looks like our boy has positioned himself well and it’s paying off, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: Graves looks like he hasn’t missed a step, you have to wonder how long he’s been keeping himself in shape to even be at this point right now!

Graves is back to his feet, and he kicks Creed out of the way as he makes his way to Okada who is now back to his feet and hooks him around the waist, bringing him down to the mat with a German suplex. Graves reaches for Okada’s legs and begins to tangle that old familiar weave of the Lucky 13, the pressure builds and as the submission is locked in now and Graves adjusts to put even more pressure on Okada’s legs. Okada begins to bash at the knee of Graves, but he just can’t seem to put the force he wants into the blows to break it up. Clawing with his fingers, he tries to pull himself to the ropes, but he just can’t seem to make it! Graves screams for him to tap and Okada’s hand wavers in the air for a moment before he relents and begins to tap furiously! The referee tells Graves to break the hold and that he’s won, and he finally releases it but he’s in shock.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, The Savior of Misbehavior, COOOREEEYYY GRAAAVEEES!

WADE BARRETT: What a return to the ring for Corey Graves here, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: Dreams do come true, and I couldn’t be happier for him!

WADE BARRETT: He did exactly what I told him, that’s why he won this match Cole. Me and him, we’re like this.

MICHAEL COLE: Sure, Wade, he’s got nobody better he could take advice from. Everybody backstage loves him, he’s certainly not following your advice with a showing like this. Congratulations to Graves and I’m looking forward to seeing where he goes from here.

As he wipes the sweat from his brow, the referee grabs Corey Graves by the arm and lifts it into the air. “Christcontrol” hits the P/A system again and Graves is still in shock as he looks at the opponents he’s beaten slowly making their way back up the ramp, Okada being helped by a ringside attendant as he’s favoring his right leg a bit after the Lucky 13 maneuver. As if he’s finally snapped out of it, he’s greeted by Carmella who enters the ring and wraps her arms around him as he grins now. The crowd cheers for Corey Graves as his wife plants a big old kiss on his lips. Giving his wife a hug, he leads her out of the ring and the two make their way up the ramp towards the back, eager to celebrate Corey’s triumphant return to the ring.

WADE BARRETT: We’ve still got plenty of show left, Cole, but guess what? Right now, we are going to be blessed with an appearance from our WWE Champion!

MICHAEL COLE: Oh great, how’s he going to cheat this time? Is he going to get AI to talk for him?

WADE BARRETT: Nonsense, that’s what Nana’s for! Let’s go ahead, let’s hear from The Crown Jewel, Swerve Strickland!

The TitanTron lights up, showing The Mogul Embassy in what appears to be their personal locker room. Oba and Hobbs stand tall on either side of the screen, with Nana front and center for the moment. The Champion? Looming in the background, seated in his special chair. The WWE Championship lay draped across his chest. You can see him over Nana’s shoulder, and if you look close enough? His eyes mimic the Mona Lisa’s. Spooky. But that’s all taken away as Nana kicks things off in a celebratory mood.

PRINCE NANA: OH! OH! What a momentous occasion Backlash was, am I right?! The Mogul Embassy making history all across the card was something you all thought was only possible in my dreams, huh?! And now you are living my dreams! I am living my dreams, oh yes! Oh I love it! Do we love it, boys?!

Oba and Hobbs both have big smiles on their faces before letting out sounds of agreement, Swerve simply smirks and claps his hands.

PRINCE NANA: And one of the men we have to thank, not only for leading us to history, but for squashing that mutated cockroach Diesel under his boot - is Swerve Strickland! Boss! Please speak to the people!

Nana presents Swerve with his arms almost like the Wheel of Fortune lady reveals a letter on the board. The Prince steps to the side, allowing all eyes to be on Strickland. The Champ looks into the camera, beckoning it to come closer. And when it does? He grabs it by the lens, making sure his face is visible and he’s heard clearly.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: I did exactly…what I said I was gonna do. Funny how that works, right? Time after time, I say it and wooooow, would ya look at that? It comes true.

PRINCE NANA: Like a prophet!

SWERVE STRICKLAND: And what did I say was gonna happen after I beat Diesel at Backlash? Huh? Anybody remember?

OBA FEMI: You said that you would leave that tree where it was chopped down.

Swerve looks toward Oba, nodding.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: Good job, Oba. That’s exactly what I said, which means… which means that’s exactly what I’ll do. This Championship that I wear and defend with pride and honor? Means I call the shots. Reigns learned, Rhodes learned, Steveson - - and Diesel? You’re just the latest student to learn the most important lesson in this new era of WWE. You can’t swerve Swerve, no matter how hard you try. Old man Michaels was a…a cute touch. I’ve never been ashamed to say I was a fan growing up. Just means I know all the game plans you two have, which is why The Mogul Embassy overcame, as we do. Because no matter how long you’ve been around, no matter how big you are, Dies’ - gravity affects us all the same. A shot to the face hurts all the same! And…haha, a loss affects us all the same too.

Swerve can’t contain his excitement. All the things Diesel said before Backlash, he now has to eat every single word. Swerve shoves the camera (and cameraman by proxy) away from him, bringing it back to a wider shot with the entire group in it. It takes a second for everything to look ‘proper’, but Swerve doesn’t care.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: Now if I’m not mistaken, Big Daddy Cool, this Title right here makes it very clear who lost at Backlash. You can cry about the “how” all you want, but I told everyone exactly what I was gonna do. Any means necessary. I walked up the mountain and took hold of this Championship on my own, but now? Now the game has changed. This isn’t friendly competition or a tournament. This is ‘what is Swerve Strickland willing to do to keep this WWE Championship in his possesion’, and the answer?

Another smirk from Strickland, this one grows into a full-blown smile.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: Was made very clear at Backlash. So, with Diesel headed to the back of the line, you have to wonder…who's next?

This leads to Swerve looking towards Nana, who shrugs. Strickland shakes his head, his gaze going back to the camera.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: We’re not sure of who, but we know they’ll just be another flavor of the month. But Mogul Embassy? Mogul Embassy is forever. Enjoy the show.

Nana, Oba, and Hobbs all throw up the Embassy hand signal as the promo closes out, with Nana’s raging laughter being the very last thing we hear before we’re greeted with the sight of Wade Barrett and Michael Cole.

MICHAEL COLE: I wish I could say I was surprised, but I’m not.

WADE BARRETT: What are you talking about?

MICHAEL COLE: It’s clear that Swerve is trying to use his political power as Champion to avoid a rematch with Diesel. We all saw how he ‘won’ at Backlash!

WADE BARRETT: Yeah, by putting Diesel’s shoulders to the mat! You know what, I’m not going to have this argument with you, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: Oh I wasn’t planning on having it with you either, the only man whose thoughts I wanna hear on this are Diesel’s! But for right now, let’s get back into the show. We have Cathy Kelley standing by in the back!

The camera cuts to the interview set where we see Cathy Kelley greeting the audience with a warm smile.



CATHY KELLEY: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time. She is the Most Powerful Woman in Wrestling…JAMIE HAYTER!!!

The camera zooms out and it’s shown that Jamie Hayter is standing right next to Cathy. Upon seeing Jamie, the audience in the arena instantly begins booing.

CATHY KELLEY: Jamie, I think what everyone wants to know is this. Why did you do what you did at Backlash? Why did you interfere in the match between Chelsea Green and Becky Lynch? Why did you try to cost Becky the match?

Cathy holds the microphone up to Jamie’s mouth.

JAMIE HAYTER: My reason for interfering in the match between Chelsea Green and Becky Lynch? It’s very simple. You remember when I said that there was one person on this entire roster that I see as an equal?

Cathy nods her head in the affirmative.

CATHY KELLEY: Yeah, I remember that. It was after your first match here in WWE.

JAMIE HAYTER: The one person I see as an equal is none other than Chelsea Green. Now, I’ve watched Chelsea work before and she, indeed, has earned the right to be called my equal. Not only that, but she and I are the future of the WWE. Becky might be the ‘now,’ but she has a shelf life. You want to know why?

Cathy nods her head in the affirmative again.

JAMIE HAYTER: It’s because she’s in my crosshairs and when I finally fight her, you’ll never see her again.

Before Cathy can ask Jamie anything else, Chelsea Green comes into the frame, giving Jamie a cautious smile.

CHELSEA GREEN: Hey, Jamie, I hope I’m not interrupting anything.

Jamie grins at Chelsea.

JAMIE HAYTER: No, not at all. What brings you here?

CHELSEA GREEN: I just wanted to say thank you for what you did at Backlash. Things may not have worked out the way that I wanted them to, but it was nice that someone was looking out for me with that animal Becky Lynch.

JAMIE HAYTER: She's not just an animal. She's a rabid animal, and you know what happens to rabid animals...

Jamie says with a smirk. Chelsea, meanwhile, tilts her head, a look of confusion on her face.

CHELSEA GREEN: No…what happens to them?

JAMIE HAYTER: They get put down, and that's exactly what I plan to do to Becky Lynch. It's time for her to go the way of Old Yeller and I want to be the one to do it.

CHELSEA GREEN: Oh! Well by all means, go for it! Anyway, I don’t want to take up too much of your time, I just wanted to say thanks for what you did. So…thanks! See you around!

Giving Jamie a grateful smile, Chelsea turns and walks away, leaving Jamie alone with Cathy once more.

JAMIE HAYTER: See you later.

Jamie says with a smile on her face before turning her attention back to Cathy.

JAMIE HAYTER: You know? I like her.

Jamie says before she turns her attention toward the camera.

JAMIE HAYTER: You heard me, Becky. Right now, I'm throwing out the challenge. I want a shot at that belt you left Backlash with. I want my shot as soon as possible because I will make good on my promise. I will put you out of everyone's misery and I will take that belt from you. So, what do you say, Becky? Do you accept or do you yield?

Giving the camera a hardened glare, Jamie turns and stomps away as the cameras go to a different part of the backstage area where we see a hive of activity, buzzing with energy and anticipation. And Triple H, the man who is the very center of the WWE Universe, stands amidst a labyrinth of corridors and bustling production crews, talking to a few production people.

The walls are adorned with WWE posters and promotional banners, each one showcasing the larger-than-life superstars who grace the squared circle. Fluorescent lights hang overhead, casting a bright glow that illuminates the area while the faint hum of generators and equipment fills the air.

Around them, crew members scurry about, carrying cables, setting up cameras, and preparing for the night's events. The sound of chatter and laughter echoes off the walls as wrestlers and staff members pass by, exchanging greetings and sharing inside jokes. As Triple H hears one of these jokes, he smiles, and that's when he hears a voice.

SAMI ZAYN: Hunter, can we talk?

The Game looks around to see the brand-new Intercontinental Champion in his traditional gear of cap and black jacket, but with the added addition of the sparkling WWE Intercontinental Championship wrapped lovely around his waist, Triple H nods at the production to give them a moment alone.



TRIPLE H: Sure Sami, I've got a moment for the Intercontinental Champion, but make it quick because as much as I love chatting, we're live and there's only so much time I can spare.

SAMI ZAYN: I understand, and I promise I don't want to take too much of your time; I know you're always busy on show days, but I wanted to thank you for Backlash. You said you'd call it right down the middle, and you're a man of your word. Without you to keep Logan Paul in order, maybe I'm not here with this title. So, I wanted to say thanks. And hey, I might not be the "sexy" choice as Intercontinental Champion; I don't have a podcast, Jimmy Fallon isn't going to have me on any time soon, I don't have an energy drink to promote, I'm more of a water guy...but I promise you, I'm going to work my fingers to the bone to be the best champion I can be. Sure, the WWE Championship puts asses in seats, but I'm going to make sure my championship matches? They'll keep asses in those same seats.

TRIPLE H: I'm glad to hear it, Sami, I look forward to seeing exactly what you can do as Intercontinental Champion. Was there a point to all this though, or did you just want me to say congratulations? If so, congratulations on becoming the new Intercontinental Champion.

Sami turns his body to leave but stops in his tracks, clearly unsure if he should go any further than he should.

SAMI ZAYN: Well, now that you mention it, there is one thing that's been bugging me...

TRIPLE H: Oh yeah, what's that?

Sami turns back to Triple H, his expression shifting. A hint of curiosity comes over his eyes as he scratches his chin somewhat awkwardly.

SAMI ZAYN: So, I was watching the match with my family on the network. I wanted to share the moment with them, you know? And at the finish, my son goes, "Why did Triple H not want to count the three?" and I asked him what he was talking about, and he said, "Well, the count was slow, and he didn't look happy doing it." At first, I just kind of laughed it off, but then I watched the finish of the match again...and sure enough. You count the one, you count the two, and you definitely pause; you hesitate, and then you count the three.

Sami's tone is innocent, but there's a subtle intensity behind his words as he gazes at Triple H, searching for answers. Triple H's expression doesn't shift a bit though as he stares straight at Sami.

TRIPLE H: Listen, Sami, I could get into details about being in the ring during actual action for the first time since, I don't know how long, but I'm sure you don't want to hear it. Just know that moving forward, I'll keep myself focused so the same mistake won't happen again. Believe me, I looked back at the footage myself and I was embarrassed about it.

Sami sighs, almost bemused at himself for even pressing this point.

SAMI ZAYN: Look, I believe you, Hunter; I really do. I'm not questioning your intentions or motives or anything like that, but honestly? I've been in this business a long time; you've been in this business a long time. We both know how it is. Sometimes things aren't always as they seem. So, if there's something else going on... or if there's anything you want to say to me, anything at all, I'm all ears.

TRIPLE H: Sami, there’s nothing going on. Like I said, it was an honest mistake, and it won’t happen again.

SAMI ZAYN: Right, no, I get it, that makes sense. You know what? Forget I said anything at all. I'm not the same guy I was three years ago, but sometimes, the conspiracy theorist rears his ugly head.

TRIPLE H: Hey, I appreciate it, but don’t worry about it. I can’t say I wouldn’t have had those same thoughts if I was in your shoes. Now go on and keep an eye on that match between Jacob Fatu and Christian Cage, can’t hurt to scout out your Unforgiven challenger. And hey, don't forget we still have to get that promo shot with me and you as the new Intercontinental Champion. I'll catch you after the broadcast to get that done really quick. Now, if you don't mind, I do need to catch up with these production guys about some stuff that needs to be done.

And with that, Sami nods his head in thanks as he turns his back and walks away. and the cameras go back to ringside.

MICHAEL COLE: Sami Zayn seems suspicious of Triple H’s hesitation to make the three count at Backlash, Wade! I have to admit, that was kind of weird.

WADE BARRETT: Nonsense, Cole! Sami Zayn needs to calm down on those conspiracy theories. Triple H had a perfectly good explanation as to what happened, there was nothing sinister about his actions!

MICHAEL COLE: Well whatever the case may be, we’re about to find out who’s facing Sami at Unforgiven for the Intercontinental Championship, as Jacob Fatu takes on Christian Cage!

"House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals plays over the P/A system as Jacob Fatu marches his way onto the stage, screaming out towards the crowd as he spreads his arms wide.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and the winner will face Sami Zayn at Unforgiven for the WWE Intercontinental Championship! Introducing first, he is the Samoan Werewolf, Jaaacooob Faaatuuu!

As he makes his way down to the ring, he isn’t lumbering like a man of his size usually does. Instead, he’s got more of a steady but quick stride that gives away how deceptively fast his mobility can be. A fan reaches out towards him, but he merely fakes them out by lunging forward as they cower in fear of him. Stomping his way up the ring steps, he steps through the ropes and climbs the turnbuckle as he spreads his arms once again for the crowd to bask in his glory.

WADE BARRETT: If the size of this man, and the fact that he’s called the Samoan Werewolf doesn’t scare you enough, he’s led by Vampiro.

MICHAEL COLE: Vampiro appears to be even more ruthless than his client, showing no signs of even caring the slightest bit for his well-being.

WADE BARRETT: The two of them certainly leave me feeling uneasy for anyone who dares to face them. If the manipulative mind of Vampiro doesn’t give the victory, the pure brutality of Jacob Fatu will finish any man for sure.

As Fatu’s music fades out, "Take Over" by Dale Oliver plays over the P/A system as Christian Cage confidently struts his way out and pounds his chest with his hand before kissing the tips of his fingers and pointing out the crowd who don’t appreciate him in the slightest bit with their boos. He uses his hand to shade the lights from his eyes as he looks out to the crowd for a moment and just enjoys their hatred of him before he continues his way down to the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent for the evening, the leader of The Patriarchy, Chriiistiiiaaan Caaage!

MICHAEL COLE: Christian Cage has been on a roll lately, Wade, stacking up victory after victory to prove himself worthy of the grandest prize of them all.

WADE BARRETT: Well, he’s well aware that this match is going to be the best way to do that. Jacob Fatu and Christian Cage are fighting for the opportunity to be the next man to face Sami Zayn for his Intercontinental Championship!

MICHAEL COLE: If he wants to get that WWE Championship one day, a win over Jacob Fatu would certainly place him closer to it. Not to mention it catapults him to Sami Zayn who easily would make him a superstar to keep our eyes on for a potential future WWE Championship match.

WADE BARRETT: Let’s just see if he has what it takes to win the Intercontinental Championship first. This is only the first test on his way to claiming a prize that most men would be jealous of.

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Christian Cage stands at the side of the ring but doesn’t have a moment to even collect himself to get in because a suicide dive from Jacob Fatu absolutely flattens him as the Samoan Werewolf lands on his feet after the fact and pounds his chest with his fists. Fatu picks Christian up off the ground and walks him over to the ring stairs before he slams him down back first into the steps, which causes Christian to scream in pain as he hastily crawls away to try and avoid more damage after the fact. Jacob, however, grabs him by the ankles and swings him headfirst into the ringside barricade. Vampiro barks some orders to Fatu as he pulls Christian to his feet and uses the ringside barricade to keep him up as he nails a knife edge chop that echoes through the arena. Christian stumbles away in pain but Fatu grabs him from behind and slams him headfirst into the ring post.

MICHAEL COLE: This is absolutely brutal punishment from Jacob Fatu and the match technically hasn’t even started yet.

WADE BARRETT: The referee is trying to get Fatu to bring his opponent into the ring but what can he do against this monster of a man to force him inside?

Fatu now shoves Christian into the barricade again as the cogs begin to turn in his head and a vicious grin forms on his face as he backs up and stares at his prey. Vampiro tells him to hit him as hard as he can as Fatu screams and rushes forward going for a spear, but Christian dives out of the way just in the nick of time as Fatu barrels through the barricade at ringside by himself, breaking it apart as the crowd pop for the brutal move. Christian takes the opportunity to quickly grab Fatu and leads him to the ring, rolls him in under the ropes and slowly recovers for a moment before rolling in himself. Fatu is prone in the center of the ring as Christian slowly climbs the turnbuckle corner as he’s still the worse for wear of the two. As he ascends, he calculates his dive before he jumps and nails a Frog Splash before he rolls off the form of Fatu in pain and unable to take advantage of the situation.

MICHAEL COLE: That might not have been the smartest move for The Patriarchy’s leader.

WADE BARRETT: It looks like you might be right, it seems to have taken more of a toll on Christian than it did his opponent.

Christian tries to pull himself over for a pinfall, but the big man is already stirring and gets to a knee as he spots Christian, who pauses as he realizes he may be in trouble. Both men get to their feet and as Fatu lumbers forward, he’s met with a chop from Christian who immediately regrets his choice as the big man doesn’t even seem fazed and instead gives chase. Christian bails out of the ring quickly and begins to run around it as the bigger man is right on his heels. Vampiro blocks the way as Christian rounds the corner and he instead decides to slide into the ring and Fatu comes in behind him only to be met with a basement dropkick to the side of his head by Christian. Fatu shakes his head to knock out the cobwebs, but Vampiro is on the apron behind him now as he screams at Fatu who turns to glare straight at him but gets a hard slap across the face as Vampiro points back into the ring at Christian. Jacob Fatu's frustration is palpable as Vampiro looks on with a condescending smirk, his dark presence looming over the proceedings. Christian, seizing the opportunity, gains the upper hand, delivering a series of punishing blows to Fatu.

MICHAEL COLE: Fatu's frustration is boiling over, Wade. He can't seem to get a handle on Christian, and Vampiro's presence isn't helping matters.

WADE BARRETT: Absolutely, Cole. Vampiro's sinister demeanor is throwing Fatu off his game, and Christian is taking full advantage.

Christian quickly grabs the arms of Fatu, spins him around and executes the Unprettier which spikes Fatu face first into the canvas. Quickly he pulls himself over the much bigger man as he tries to lift the tree trunk of a leg, 1…2…3! The shoulder goes up, but it was a second too late and Christian has secured himself a victory that leads him to an opportunity against Sami Zayn for the Intercontinental Championship!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, CHRIIISTIIIAAAN CAAAGE!

MICHAEL COLE: Christian Cage’s hot streak continues, and now he gets a championship opportunity at Unforgiven!

WADE BARRETT: If I were Sami Zayn, I’d be worried that my days as champion are numbered! Christian Cage doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon!

As the bell rings, Vampiro slides into the ring with a mic in hand, his dark gaze fixed on Fatu. Christian hightails his way up the ramp as he’s confused with what’s happening currently, but happy to have the win. Vampiro approaches his fallen client, the expression of rage and disappointment is clear on his face. Fatu struggles to get up from the canvas as he is none too pleased with what’s transpired.

VAMPIRO: Well, well, well, Jacob. It seems the darkness has once again proven its superiority. But you, you continue to flounder in its wake.

Angrily, Fatu unleashes a barrage of insults towards Vampiro, his frustration boiling over. In a fit of rage, he shoves Vampiro, who barely flinches.

WADE BARRETT: This doesn't look good, Cole. Fatu is about to snap.

In a swift and unexpected move, Vampiro retrieves a vial of yellow mist from his pocket. Without hesitation, he sprays it directly into Fatu's eyes, causing him to stagger back in agony.

MICHAEL COLE: Oh my God! What did Vampiro just do?!

WADE BARRETT: That's yellow mist, Cole. It's paralyzing!

Fatu collapses to the mat, writhing in pain as Vampiro stands over him, a sinister grin spreading across his face.

VAMPIRO: You have been relieved of your duties, Jacob. The darkness will use me as its vessel here in WWE.

Vampiro strokes Fatu's hair mockingly as referees and medical personnel rush into the ring. The scene fades to black as Raw goes to a commercial break, leaving the audience stunned by the sudden turn of events as the cameras fade out to commercial.

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