Monday Night RAW 6-10-2024

As we return from commercial break, it opens up to a panoramic shot of the nearly sold-out Fargodome here tonight in Fargo, North Carolina. After several seconds, the screen cuts to a pre-recorded video of GOOOLLLLLLLDDDDDUSSSSSTTT.

The vignette begins with an interior shot of a rather unassuming mom-and-pop diner. For our purposes here, the establishment is nondescript or otherwise undisclosed. For funsies, let’s assume, this particular dinner is in some forgotten town somewhere, along some, I don’t know, dusty old highway. To be there at the right moment in time is truly to live. To experience life inside a different kind of colorfully bland bubble. If you were to be sitting in the room at this exact moment in time, you’d hear the background sounds of chatter or, perhaps, the sight and sound of bacon sizzling from the kitchen. It’s the kind of place where the walls are adorned with unexplained posters of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe. Behind the cash register, poorly hung on the wall, there is probably a picture from when President Reagan stopped in and clogged the shitter.

Normally, on a lazy late afternoon such as this one, the jukebox would be the heart and soul of this diner, playing everything from classic rock to country with plenty of hits from the 50’s and 60’s in between. But today…the diner is emptier than usual. Abnormally quiet.

In the corner of the room sits professional wrestler, WWE superstar, GOLDUST. Now, normally, it isn’t safe to assume, but in this instance, I think it’s okay to draw conclusions. One doesn’t have to be terribly smart to figure out the reason that the diner is empty on this otherwise busy afternoon is likely because the individual sitting across from “The Bizarre One” is THE BLUE FREAKIN’ MEANIE.

GOLDUST: Ugh. You’re so disgusting. And…BLUE. It’s awful.

THE BLUE MEANIE: Mommy?

GOLDUST: Now, now…don’t worry, my disgustingly little blue baby…Goldust loves you. I just can’t stand the sight of you. You’re so…

Goldust gags.

GOLDUST: So…blue.

Goldie reaches across the table and pets the side of Meanie’s face.

GOLDUST: “All right, so he's not a regular rat or even a super rat. Just a scared little mouse, that's all. But oh, golly! Gee damn!”

Goldust dramatically covers his face with his hands.

GOLDUST: Holly Golightly…Audrey Hepburn…Breakfast at Tiffany's…1961.

Goldust shifts his body in the booth and for the first time since they arrived, he turns his head to the left and looks directly at the camera that’s facing and focused on him.

GOLDUST: Silly me. I nearly forgot… it’s time for my closeup.

He bites the air in between himself and the camera's lens. It, somehow, manages to come off as both sexually suggestive and mildly threatening.

GOLDUST: Next Monday Night… June 17, 2024. First Interstate Arena…mhm…Billings, Montana…I look forward to being inside of you… deep, deep, deep inside of you. Poised in the middle of the ring. Chest to chest with my opponent who is lying on his back in the center of the mat. WWE…I don’t think you’re ready…ready for a night you’ll NEVER FORGET.

Before The Blue Meanie has the opportunity to speak, Goldust runs his fingers up his chest, and as he gives the camera a wink, the video scene quickly begins to fade.

WADE BARRETT: Oh, for cripes sake, Cole. What in the bloody hell was that?

MICHAEL COLE: I believe that was Goldust, Wade.

WADE BARRETT: I know who Goldust is! I am talking about that disgustingly blue thing sitting across from him!

The Bullet Club Red theme music hits and the crowd comes to their collective feet. The WWE Women’s Champion, Serena Deeb, appears at the top of the ramp to a chorus of cheers as she starts to make her way down to the ring.

MICHAEL COLE: Great to see our Women’s Champion here tonight, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: Money in the Bank is coming up and while Deeb has stated several times that she’s still working through having a target on her back, there’s no target like the Money in the Bank holder’s target.

MICHAEL COLE: Certainly true, she’s faced some tough challenges already though and turned each of them back.

WADE BARRETT: That she has. She’s been a fighting champion; I’ll give her that.

MICHAEL COLE: A stalwart of the WWE women’s division since winning the title at Night of Champions.

WADE BARRETT: I suppose we’re about to find out what’s on her mind here.

The music fades out as a ringside crew member hands Serena Deeb the microphone.

SERENA DEEB: There’s just something about being in the great North of this country up here in beautiful North Dakota.

A cheap, yet effective pop from the crowd.

SERENA DEEB: That’s the thing about this country and even more so, the world. There’s a lot to see. Everything is so different everywhere we go. What’s beautiful about North Dakota is what makes it unique from every other place on this planet, just like when we go to Montana next week and then Seattle and Portland and every stop down the road. They are all awesome places and have a certain uniqueness to them.

A smattering of small applause but mostly confusion from the crowd as they try and understand her point.

SERENA DEEB: Of course, I’m not out here to talk about geography or what makes this country and planet so great. I’m actually out here to talk about the next great Premium Live Event we have in Money in the Bank.

Now the crowd gets back to cheering something they know a little more about.

SERENA DEEB: Qualifying matches starting tonight here on Monday Night RAW. Twelve of the fiercest women competitors in the world of professional wrestling with one thing on their minds. Getting that briefcase and guaranteeing themselves a WWE Women’s Championship Title opportunity. It’s quite a mountain to climb and one that I’m proud to not have to be a part of but to watch from afar. Because as I said, the competition for this one is fierce.

The camera zooms in a bit as she paces back and forth slowly in the ring.

SERENA DEEB: Jade Cargill. One of the most imposing and intimidating presences in all of the women’s division. Sheer brute force mixed with size, speed and athleticism. A proverbial favorite and someone to watch going forward and she begins her march to the top. Velvet Sky, a woman whose looks are only surpassed by her skills in this ring. She’s hoping that her opponents will look past her and cast her aside only to surprise them by what she’s capable of doing in this ring.

She paces back towards the opposite side of the ring as she continues.

SERENA DEEB: Then there’s women that I’ve been in this ring with before who are hungry to get back to the front of the line. Women like Tiffany Stratton, who has an unsurpassed athleticism and speed in here. She’s wryly cunning as well and not afraid to win by any means necessary. What about Dakota Kai? I would argue my toughest challenge yet. She pushed me to my absolute limits and almost beat me. She’s someone who knows now what it takes to be the best. Someone I know if I had to stand in this ring with her one more time, the result may be different than last time. Each and every woman trying to qualify for Money in the Bank has the grit, determination, and drive to be a champion. I know that whoever comes out of that match, I’ve got my hands full. Because they’re not going to have to do things the honorable and right way either. They can cash in on me at my weakest point. They can come down, turn in their briefcase and get me after I’ve been through a war. I know what’s in store for me down the road and ladies, I am ready.



Deeb looks up towards the entrance ramp with a look of confusion on her face. The crowd seems just as confused well, hearing an entrance song they’re more than familiar with as she steps through the curtain and appears to loud cheers.

MICHAEL COLE: What in the world is going on here!?

WADE BARRETT: Lita is here!

MICHAEL COLE: WWE Legend, Lita is here in Fargo, North Dakota and coming down to the ring to confront the WWE Women’s Champion!

WADE BARRETT: Deeb looks like she’s just as surprised as all of us!

The familiar riff of Lita’s entrance music reverberates through the arena, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Deeb stands in the ring, visibly perplexed but composed, as the legendary Lita makes her way out and down the ramp, high-fiving fans and soaking in the adulation.

MICHAEL COLE: I can’t believe what we’re seeing, Wade! Lita, a true icon of WWE, is here tonight!

WADE BARRETT: And it looks like she’s got something she might want to say to our Women’s Champion, Cole. This is huge!

Lita steps under the ropes and into the ring, and the crowd’s cheers swell, creating a palpable buzz throughout the venue. Serena raises an eyebrow, intrigued yet respectful, as Lita is handed a microphone. She waits for the crowd to settle, the anticipation building with every passing second.

LITA: It’s great to be here tonight in Fargo!

The crowd erupts again, a sea of cheers and applause echoing through the arena. Lita glances around, her expression shifting to one of genuine admiration as she turns to Serena.

LITA: Serena, I’ve been watching you. I’ve seen the battles you’ve fought, the challenges you’ve overcome, and I have to say, you’ve earned every bit of respect that comes with that title on your shoulder. It would be a shame to see it stolen from you by a Money in the Bank winner.

The crowd cheers in agreement, acknowledging Serena’s hard-earned reputation.

LITA: Let’s talk a little bit about Money in the Bank. Is everyone excited for one of the most exhilarating, high stakes matches in all of WWE!? The risks the competitors take, climbing that ladder, reaching for that briefcase - - it’s a real career-defining moment… and the reward? A guaranteed shot at the WWE Women’s Championship, anytime, anywhere. It’s the ultimate game-changer, right? But with those high rewards come equally high risks. The physical toll, the danger, the unpredictability - - it’s not for the faint hearted. And while those twelve fierce competitors will give it their all, only one will emerge victorious, ready to seize the ultimate prize and go on to have their moment.

The crowd hangs on her every word, the anticipation building.

LITA: But as much as I respect the gravity of Money in the Bank and what it represents, I’m not here to join the match. No. I’m here for something else.

A wave of murmurs sweeps through the audience, curiosity piqued. Lita caught the WWE universe with her words, but she now draws her full attention to the WWE Women’s Champion.

LITA: Serena, out of pure respect for everything you’ve accomplished, I’d love for you to have your moment at Money in the Bank too and that brings me to why I’m down here. You see, I’ve been in this business a long time. I know what it means to fight for something you believe in, to defend your title with honor and integrity. I see that same fire in you that I once had. You’ve taken on all comers, fought with everything you’ve got, and represented this division with pride. So…

The crowd pop, appreciating the spoken praise for Serena Deeb. Lita grins, letting her statement linger before she lifts the mic up to continue.

LITA: How about at Money in the Bank you step into the ring with me, one-on-one, and no, not because I’m chasing glory, but because I think you finally deserve to defend that title against someone who respects you, respects the business, and will give you and these people the match of a lifetime. Let’s show the world what it really means to be WWE Women’s Champion. What d'ya say?

The crowd erupts, the energy in the arena reaching a fever pitch. Serena’s eyes widen slightly in surprise, then she nods, a determined smile spreading across her face.

MICHAEL COLE: Did you hear that, Wade? Lita just challenged Serena Deeb to a title match at Money in the Bank!

Serena raises her microphone, the crowd hanging on her every word.

SERENA DEEB: Lita, your career has paved the way for me and so many of us in this ring. It would be an honor to defend this title against you at Money in the Bank. Challenge accepted!

The crowd erupts once more, the anticipation for Money in the Bank reaching new heights. Lita and Serena step closer, shaking hands in a show of mutual respect, their eyes locked in a competitive yet respectful gaze.

MICHAEL COLE: This is what WWE is all about, Wade. Respect, competition, and the spirit of champions!

WADE BARRETT: I couldn’t agree more, Cole. Serena Deeb versus Lita at Money in the Bank. What a match that’s going to be!

As Lita’s music hits once again, the two women stand in the ring, side by side, soaking in the electric atmosphere. Lita turns and makes her way to the ropes, stepping out of the ring. She heads up the ramp, clapping fans’ hands and smiling. As she reaches the top of the ramp, Lita turns back to look at Serena, who stands tall in the ring, the championship glistening on her shoulder. Lita gives a nod of respect and a smile, which Serena returns, setting the stage for an epic showdown at Money in the Bank.

MICHAEL COLE: Well speaking of Money in the Bank and the Women’s Championship, coming up next, we have another qualifying match for the women’s Money in the Bank match! The impressive newcomer Britt Baker is taking on the saucy veteran Dawn Marie!

WADE BARRETT: These two women quickly got under each other’s skin and now they have the chance to settle their differences in the ring!

MICHAEL COLE: And with a Money in the Bank opportunity on the line, you have to think that this is going to be a very intense matchup!

”Turn Up the Radio” by Autograph begins to play on the speakers and unlike last week when they didn’t really know how to respond, the crowd begins to cheer a bit as Britt Baker makes her way to the top of the ramp. Looking out at the crowd with a smile, Britt throws her arms out to the side and strikes a pose before making her way down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is a Money in the Bank qualifying match! Making her way to the ring, Briiitt Baaakerrr!

MICHAEL COLE: This young lady had a very impressive debut last week on RAW, and tonight she looks to build on that momentum as she goes for a coveted spot in the women’s Money in the Bank match!

WADE BARRETT: She was able to get one over on Velvet Sky, but Dawn Marie is a bit craftier, so she’ll have to really dig deep if she wants to advance to this career changing ladder match!

Britt gets to the bottom of the ramp and walks to the steel steps, walking up to the apron and stepping into the ring. As she walks to the center, she once again puts her arms out as she poses for the cheering crowd, before taking off her jacket and walking over to the ropes to hand it off to the ringside attendant. Swinging her arms back and forth, she turns her attention to the entrance area as her music begins to fade out.

"Hammer Jammer" by Jim Johnston reverberates through the arena and the crowd's anticipation mounts, unsure of what to expect from Dawn Marie tonight. After a while the music stops and the TitanTron bursts to life, revealing Dawn seated backstage, exuding confidence with her commanding presence. Her attire accentuates her figure, drawing mixed reactions from the audience who notice she’s not dressed to fight, some booing in response. Dawn fixes her steely gaze on the camera, her voice cutting through the arena noise as she addresses the audience and Britt Baker.



DAWN MARIE: Well, well, well. Did you really think this was all about you tonight? Did you really think you were going to draw the legendary, iconic, beautiful, dangerous Dawn Marie out there for her first ever match on RAW in her entire career? Don’t flatter yourself.

Dawn takes a breath as a smirk comes into the corner of her lips before she continues her tirade.

DAWN MARIE: You see, I got my little one-on-one time with Stephanie McMahon, and we agreed on one thing - - there’s no one quite like Dawn Marie. Certainly not a backyard scrapper like you, and certainly not a latecomer like Granny Wayne. So, I thought to myself, why waste my time with a Money in the Bank qualifier when I can simply dictate the outcome from here?

Dawn pauses letting her words sink in, the crowd's displeasure is evident in their boos as Britt shakes her head in the ring, looking unfazed. Britt tries to hit back with a few words of her own which aren’t picked up as Dawn speaks again.

DAWN MARIE: I got to handpick my replacement from a pond of hungry girls, and I found someone. Someone who embodies everything I stand for. Strength, sexiness, viciousness. She has a ruthlessness that will send shivers down your spine. She’s not just another face in the crowd; she’s a force to be reckoned with. She is WWE’s first female MMA badass to return since the reconstruction. All my bets are on her to not only win this match, but the whole thing. Good luck, Brittany. Think of this as a welcoming and parting gift from me, a two for one! This isn’t just an opponent you’re facing. It’s your destiny.

Dawn Marie begins to laugh as her image fades out and Britt stands in the ring looking confused. After a moment, “Te Lo Rompo” by def rebel begins to play and the crowd starts to boo as they realize who this is. None other than Lola Vice steps out to the top of the ramp, looking out to the booing crowd with a smirk. Turning her attention to Britt Baker, her smirk grows wider as she begins to make her way down to the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And her opponent, making her way to the ring, The Lethal Vice, Looolaaa Viiice!

MICHAEL COLE: Oh my God, Wade, Lola Vice is here!

WADE BARRETT: We’ve been seeing video packages hyping her arrival for the last few weeks and now she’s finally here, and it seems as though she’s replacing Dawn Marie in this qualifying match. What a curveball!

Lola gets to the bottom of the ramp and she continues smirking at Britt Baker, who is looking bewildered at the sudden change of opponent. Hopping up onto the apron, Lola crawls under the bottom rope suggestively, which causes the male contingent of the audience to cheer a bit. As she fully enters the ring, Lola gets to her feet, walking to the center of the ring and striking a pose, her eyes locked on Britt and the smirk still on her face. As her music begins to fade. Lola rolls her shoulders as she gets ready for her debut match in the new era of WWE!

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The bell rings and Britt Baker looks unsure of how she should start, clearly very thrown off by the change in opponent. Lola Vice continues to smirk, as she sticks out her hand looking for a handshake. Britt looks down at the hand and then back up at Vice, who now smiles sweetly and can be seen saying that she’s being genuine with the handshake. Britt rolls her eyes and shakes her head before saying “no way” and kicking Vice in the midsection!

MICHAEL COLE: Britt Baker’s not falling for any of Lola Vice’s schemes!

WADE BARRETT: How do you know it was a scheme, Cole? I think Lola was genuinely trying to show some good sportsmanship!

Lola doubles over from the kick, and Britt delivers a forearm shot to the face before whipping her into the ropes. Britt bends down, looking to launch Lola with a back body drop on the return but Lola is able to halt her momentum and instead delivers a stiff kick to Baker’s face! The crowd “oohs” as the sound of the kick can be heard in the nosebleeds, and Britt clutches at her face to make sure she doesn’t have a nosebleed. Lola hits the ropes on her own accord this time, and when she comes back she takes Britt down with a jumping clothesline! Getting to her feet, Lola grabs Britt by the hair and pulls her up to her feet as well, before whipping her hard into the corner. Lola then comes charging in, nailing Britt with a back handspring elbow that sends the former dentist down to a seated position! As the crowd pelts her with boos, Lola walks over to the opposite corner before turning to look at Britt and charging in once again, nailing her this time with a corner hip attack that sends Baker’s head smashing into the turnbuckles and causing her to slump down to the mat! Lola grabs Britt by the ankles, dragging her to the center of the ring and going for the pin, 1…2…kick out by Britt Baker!

MICHAEL COLE: Britt Baker has a lot of heart, Wade, I don’t think she’s going to give up that easily!

WADE BARRETT: Maybe she should, Lola could make her life miserable if this keeps up!

Lola looks annoyed that Britt kicked out, but doesn’t let it completely derail her. Instead, she delivers a stomp to the midsection of Baker to keep her down and then makes her way to the ropes, stepping out onto the apron. Walking over to the turnbuckles, Lola climbs up to the top and looks down at the downed Britt with an evil smile before leaping off and looking to hit Britt with a leg drop but NO! Britt rolls out of the way just in time causing Lola to crash hard into the mat on her tailbone!

MICHAEL COLE: Nobody home for that one!

WADE BARRETT: There’s a reason those moves are called high risk, Cole! And unfortunately, as we can see here, the risk doesn’t always pay off!

Lola is wincing in pain as she grabs at her backside, yelling “MY BUTT!” which causes some of the crowd to laugh. Britt, meanwhile, is back to her feet and she takes this opportunity to hit the ropes and when she comes back, she drills Lola in the face with a basement dropkick that sends her flat on her back! Britt goes for the cover, hooking the leg, 1…2…Lola kicks out! Britt gets to her feet and goes to pick up Lola but Lola gets her in a surprise small package pin! 1…2…kick out by Britt Baker! Both women are quick to get to their feet now, and they immediately lock up. Lola gets the advantage, as she gets Britt in a headlock, wrenching on Baker’s head. Britt, however, is able to power through the move as she shoves Lola off of her and into the ropes. When Lola comes back, Britt looks for a clothesline but Lola ducks underneath the attempt and then nails Britt with a spinning heel kick! Britt drops to the mat and Lola once again goes for the pin, 1…2…THRNOO! Britt gets the shoulder up just in time!

MICHAEL COLE: I actually thought this one was over!

WADE BARRETT: Britt’s refusing to stay down and she’s going to regret it, Cole!

Lola gets to her feet once again, looking down at Britt with utter disdain as the good doctor starts to get to her feet. Once Britt is back up, Lola charges in once again, this time nailing Britt with a stiff 305 spinning back fist! Britt falls back to the mat and Lola goes for the cover again, hooking both legs, 1…2…THRE-NOOO!!! Britt once again gets the shoulder up! Lola lets out an angry scream as she looks at the referee and slaps her hands together three times. The referee stands firm in the fact that it was only a two count, and Lola rolls her eyes before dismissively waving at the official. Turning her attention back to Britt, Lola goes to pick her up but now it’s Britt who gets Lola in a surprise small package pin attempt! 1…2…Lola kicks out!

MICHAEL COLE: This has been an incredible back and forth match, Wade, I’m on the edge of my seat to see how this ends!

WADE BARRETT: Both of these women want nothing more than to be included in the Money in the Bank match, and they’re pulling out all the stops to try and punch their ticket!

Both women are back to their feet now and Lola comes charging once again, but Britt is fast on her feet and takes Lola down with a drop toe hold! With Lola face down on the mat, Britt drops down and locks Lola in the crossface submission hold that she calls the Root Canal! Lola is screaming in pain as she struggles towards the ropes, but Britt has the hold locked in tight!

MICHAEL COLE: Britt has the Root Canal locked in tight! Lola might tap!

WADE BARRETT: She may want to consider it before any extensive damage is done!

Lola is screaming in pain as she continues to struggle towards the ropes. After what feels like an eternity, Lola shakily reaches out and is able to grab onto the bottom rope! Britt doesn’t want to let go though, so the referee begins his count, 1…2…3…4…Britt lets go and gets to her feet, nodding and apologizing to the official as he lectures her on her actions. As she tells him it won’t happen again, she notices Lola is starting to stir and is using the ropes to try to get up. Shaking her head “no”, Britt comes charging in, jumping up and using her foot to drive Lola’s head into the canvas with The Stomp! With the crowd cheering her on, Britt drags Lola into the center of the ring and goes for the cover, hooking the leg, 1…2…3!! Britt Baker has qualified for Money in the Bank!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, BRIIITT BAAAKERRR!

MICHAEL COLE: Britt Baker has done it! Britt Baker is going to Money in the Bank!

WADE BARRETT: I’ll be honest, Cole, I really thought Lola Vice was going to take it here tonight, but I’ll give credit where it’s due. Britt Baker put up a hell of a fight and she’s rightfully earned a spot in the women’s Money in the Bank match. But with a woman like Dakota Kai also in the match, Britt’s in for the fight of her career in Las Vegas!

”Turn Up the Radio” begins playing on the speakers again and the crowd is cheering as Britt gets to her feet, her face filled with emotion as happy tears begin to fall down her face while the referee raises her hand in victory. As the referee lets her go, Britt blows a kiss to the crowd and waves to them with both hands, thanking them for their support. Walking over to the turnbuckles, she climbs up to the second turnbuckle and raises her arms in the air, soaking up the cheers from the crowd who are thrilled to witness this promising young woman on the rise. Hopping down to the mat, Britt walks to the ropes and exits the ring, jumping down to the floor. As she makes her way up the ramp, she slaps some hands that are reaching out from the front row before she makes her way to the top of the ramp and turns to look at the crowd again. Blowing them another kiss and giving them a final wave, Britt turns and heads to the back. Meanwhile, in the ring, Lola Vice is yelling at the referee, admonishing him for not giving her a three count during her many pin attempts. While the referee explains he was only trying to do his job, Lola hauls off and slaps him, drawing boos from the crowd once again. Rolling her eyes, she flips her hair in the referee’s face as she goes to the ropes and exits the ring. Yelling at the fans to shut up, Lola makes her way up the ramp to the back, undoubtedly hoping to find Dawn Marie to plan their next steps.

“DIESEL POWERED” blares throughout the Fargodome, and the fans jump to their feet and roar with approval as the WWE Champion, “Big Daddy Cool” Diesel, steps out onto the entrance ramp, the WWE Championship over his shoulder.

MICHAEL COLE: Well Wade, the big man said we were going to hear from him in the ring and it looks like that time is now!

WADE BARRETT: Great. Just great. I planned to skip out on this, you know. I wish I had a heads up.

MICHAEL COLE: From the sound of things, the WWE Universe here in Fargo doesn’t want to skip out, they’re ready to hear from the champion!

“Big Daddy Cool” slowly walks down the ramp, taking his time to slap hands with the fans lucky enough to have ramp side tickets. The big man slowly climbs up onto the ring apron, then over the top rope. Slowly, he makes his way to the corner of the ring where he retrieves a microphone. Coming to a stop in the center of the ring, he raises the microphone to his mouth.

DIESEL: …hey yo.

MICHAEL COLE: As always, Big Daddy Cool honors his longtime friend, the late, great, Scott Hall!

The crowd finally calms down long enough to let Diesel know what’s on his mind.

DIESEL: I’m sure everyone had a chance to catch Prince Nana’s little WWE.com segment the other day. You know, the one where he made it very clear that Swerve Strickland is coming to get this WWE Championship I have on my shoulder back.

A round of boos break out amongst the crowd.

WADE BARRETT: That’s right! Prince Nana is exactly right!

MICHAEL COLE: Fargo, North Dakota seems to disagree with you, Wade.

DIESEL: Well, Big Daddy Cool has some thoughts on that. It’s like I said earlier in the night, as far as I’m concerned, things with Swerve and I are settled. I’ve taken my rightful place at the front of the new era, as WWE Champion. But, from the sound of things, Prince Nana seems to think Swerve views things a bit differently. And, you know something…

Diesel pauses to think for a moment.

DIESEL: I don’t want to come across as the kind of guy that shirks his responsibility as the face of the WWE, but I also don’t want to be the guy that rekindles something I put to rest at Unforgiven. I guess what I’m saying is, if Swerve Strickland thinks he’s due a rematch, he’s very simply going to have to prove himself to Big Daddy Cool.

??: Prove myself?

The familiar voice of the former WWE Champion rings out throughout the arena, and the TitanTron shows a shot of Swerve from a handheld camera. You can tell because of the lower quality and the shakiness in the shot. Swerve is dressed in a fancy black leather jacket with a “Whose House?” shirt underneath. He wears a smirk on his face, entertained at the audacity of the current WWE Champion.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: Why am I not surprised? The guy who waltzed out on stage my very first night as Champion and demanded a title shot because of who he is…wants me to prove myself. Because in your mind, this is over?

Swerve blows air out of his nose.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: Maybe you can’t count, but I can. It’s 1-1, old man. That means there’s a tiebreaker coming. And it’s going to be coming a lot sooner than you think. You see, unlike you, Dies’? I’ll prove myself. I’ll do as you ask to get my title opportunity because I’m a fair man. But I want you to remember…

Swerve grabs the camera, bringing it up to his face.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: You asked for this.

MICHAEL COLE: Asked for what? What the hell is Swerve talking about?

WADE BARRETT: If you wait, maybe we’ll find out!

Swerve and his personal cameraman (probably Nana) begin to walk, and you can hear what sounds like pained grunts. As they get closer, the camera catches blurry and out-of-focus shots of two men beating down another.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: Get that. Get the camera on them, Nana!

Nana does his best to stop the shaky camera and focus in on the ass whooping at hand. We catch glimpses of the assailants - Oba Femi and Powerhouse Will Hobbs, naturally. Both men are delivering boots and fists to whoever their fallen victim is. Oba lets out a yell of pure rage, grabbing the unknown man by his shirt and yanking him up to his feet. Oba then biel throws the man towards a pile of steel pipes and other various objects, the clatter echoing throughout the arena. Now it’s Hobbs’ turn, and the Palo Alto Powerhouse grabs the man by his ankles before dragging him towards Swerve, who slowly removes his black leather jacket and hands it to Nana. We finally get a shot of the victim - - AND IT’S OLD MAN MICHAELS! Michaels’ shirt is ripped up, his eyes glazed over, and there’s a trickle of blood coming down from his forehead. Hobbs holds Michaels’ legs while Swerve kneels down to grab Michaels by the head. Old Man Michaels tries to shove Strickland away, which enacts the wrath of Oba Femi. Femi grabs both of his arms, giving Strickland time to begin working at that blood flow. He drives fist after fist into Michaels’ forehead, each one opening the figurative red sea until he’s a dripping mess. Each one shows that Strickland has become unhinged since losing the Championship. Once The Crown Jewel realizes his work has been successful, he cradles Michaels’ head close to his own so they can both be in the camera shot. Swerve tells Nana to zoom in until the shot is only focused on Strickland and Michaels’ crimson mask. Strickland bares his teeth, his golden grill a stark contrast to the horror scene it’s a part of.

SWERVE STRICKLAND: Is this proof?! Is this proof enough for you yet?!

Strickland lets out an evil laugh before he begins punching Michaels some more. We hear Nana saying something unintelligible as the assault continues. He sounds scared… or worried.

MICHAEL COLE: An absolutely heinous assault on Old Man Michaels! This is completely uncalled for!

WADE BARRETT: What can I say, Cole, Diesel asked Swerve to prove himself!

MICHAEL COLE: This is no way to do that! This is absolutely appalling!

Diesel hurries out of the ring and runs up the ramp, keeping his eyes glued to the TitanTron. By the time he reaches the stage, Swerve and his crew have run off, leaving Old Man Michaels in a heap.

MICHAEL COLE: Typical! Absolutely typical, they didn’t want to stay and fight!

WADE BARRETT: I call that smart thinking, Cole!

Realizing he’s not going to be able to stop the assault, Diesel stands on the stage, still holding a microphone.

DIESEL: Swerve…

Diesel looks up at the TitanTron, then back out into the crowd.

DIESEL: Next week. RAW live from Billings, you’ve got your rematch!

MICHAEL COLE: Woah! A huge announcement from the WWE Champion!

WADE BARRETT: HAH! He fell for it! He can’t help but let that assault on Old Man Michaels go, and now he’s going to lose the WWE Championship back to Swerve Strickland!

MICHAEL COLE: Well, that remains to be seen! But it sounds like we’re going to have a rematch for the WWE Championship next week on RAW, I just hate how we got here! An absolutely uncalled for assault!

Diesel runs up the stage, through the curtain and towards Old Man Michaels, who still lays in a heap backstage.

WADE BARRETT: While it’s not looking good for Old Man Michaels and Diesel it’s certainly starting to look up for Money in the Bank as we head into the qualifying match for Rock and Danhausen next! Sounds like a bad buddy cop movie to me!

MICHAEL COLE: Sounds like an excellent buddy cop franchise to me! I’m looking forward to seeing just what Danhausen can do!

WADE BARRETT: I can’t believe I’ve had to talk about Danhausen for more than one segment of this show! It’s ridiculous that I even have to utter his name at all!

”The Danhausen Show” by Gwarsenio Hall blares over the sound system of the Fargo Dome in North Dakota, and the crowd cheers loudly for the appearance of Danhausen! As Danhausen makes his way out onto the stage, he is startled for a moment as he spots a packed crowd for Monday Night RAW. Danhausen raises a finger in the air as if he realizes something in the moment, but his face turns to confusion again.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a Money in the Bank qualifying match! Making his way to the ring, he is Very Nice, Very Evil, Daaanhaaauuusen!

MICHAEL COLE: It’s probably going to take a bit for Danhausen to get used to the packed crowd we have, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: It’s gonna take him awhile to get used to a lot of things, Cole. The man is obviously not very bright, and he was lucky he beat Pete Dunne last week!

MICHAEL COLE: You always say it best, Wade, he took advantage of an opportunity and now he’s got a bigger one here tonight!

WADE BARRETT: Can you even imagine him qualifying? What’s he going to do when he gets to Money in the Bank? Curse everybody in the match so they can’t climb the ladders?

MICHAEL COLE: That’s actually not a bad idea if he can make that happen. He might be a little wacky, but I think the fans are loving him, heck I think he’s pretty great at this point!

Danhausen then merely shakes his head as he waves to the crowd and raises his cape by the corners with both hands to give a little more encouragement for the fans to cheer him on. Making his way down the rampway with a polite wave to the crowd before he starts wringing his hands together and grabs behind him for a moment and pulls out a jar of teeth from only the Lord knows where! Raising it up for the crowd, he smiles, and the crowd, while not sure about this, still cheers him on as he ascends the steel stairs to the ring.

MICHAEL COLE: If he can beat somebody as skilled as you claim Pete Dunne is, then he at least stands a chance at beating The Rock, right?

WADE BARRETT: Let’s hope for everybody's sake that’s not true. I’d much rather see a bonafide legend securing a shot at the briefcase than this clown!

The lights go out in the arena as Danhausen gets into the ring, and a dark blue light shines over the outline of The Rock standing on the stage. Lighting strikes across the Titantron as white flashes briefly illuminate the stage. A hard echoing slap is heard as the lights come back on and “Electrifying (Final Boss Remix)” by Jim Johnston hits the P/A system of the arena. The Rock runs his hand along his arm as he ushers the camera view to come in as he shows the goosebumps on his arm, and the crowd gives a mixed reaction to his arrival.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent making his way to the ring, he is The People’s Champion, The Brahma Bull, The Final Boss, The Rooock!

MICHAEL COLE: No matter how many themes he uses, he’s always got a hit for any WWE Music album that hits stores!

WADE BARRETT: Are we commentating on a match or talking about our musical tastes, Cole? Show this man the deference that he’s due, he’s The Final Boss!

MICHAEL COLE: Hopefully Danhausen has some cheat codes handy, The Rock has been trying to run through our roster to make his way to the top since he got here!

The Rock peels off his jacket as he looks as though he might toss it to the crowd, which they pop for, but he instead tosses it on the floor at the side of the ramp as they boo loudly for it, but he merely grins at his action. As he reaches the bottom of the rampway, he gives a good look over to his opponent in the ring and just shakes his head at the thought of facing Danhausen as Heyman trails behind him. Slowly making his way over to the steel stairs, he ascends them and puts his hand on the top ropes as he walks along the apron slowly and gives a steely glare at Danhausen in the ring. The Ruck ducks quickly into the ring and makes his way past Danhausen to mount the turnbuckle corner as he raises a fist to the air, and the crowd boos at him even louder now!

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As the bell rings Rock motions for Danhausen to bring it, Danhausen then proceeds to hold out his hand and do Rock’s signature “Just Bring It” taunt right back to him before he slaps his arms to emphasize his much frailer looking physique in comparison. Rock shakes his head and laughs as he speaks to Heyman at ringside for a moment, before Rock rushes in and Danhausen locks up with him, Rock easily backs Danhausen into the turnbuckle corner and firmly presses his forearm on the neck of Danhausen; the referee counts 1…2…3…4, and Rock breaks it up and backs off. Rock now raises his arms to show his compliance before the two lock up similarly, and once again, Rock backs Danhausen into the corner. The referee once again begins to count and at the count of two, Rock hurls Danhausen clear across the ring with a Biel Toss! Rock now taps at the side of his head as Heyman claps for him at ringside and the two seem to be in good spirits after the show of power but the fans are booing both of them.

WADE BARRETT: See Cole, all's right with the world! Rock is clearly the better competitor! Danhausen doesn’t stand a chance!

MICHAEL COLE: I’d be careful, Wade, you said the same thing last week and look what happened!

WADE BARRETT: Don’t you put that voodoo on me, I didn’t make Pete Dunne lose his match against Danhausen! I also didn’t make him lose his match against Sydal earlier tonight!

Danhausen gets up, as he holds his back, and charges Rock as he attempts a wheelbarrow arm drag, but Rock simply watches as Danhausen hangs onto his arm desperately trying to pull him over. Rock pulls him back up and nails him with a lariat that turns Danhausen inside out and upside down. Rock quickly places a foot on his opponent for the pin, 1…2, but Danhausen kicks out of the pin and rolls over; however, Rock locks his hands under the chin of Danhausen as he digs his knee into the spine of the man before administering repeated clubbing blows down onto Danhausen’s chest before he rolls Danhausen over into a half-cradle pin; 1…2, Danhausen kicks out of the pin attempt once again! Rock lifts Danhausen up from the canvas and hits a nasty looking European uppercut that looks like it knocks a tooth out of Danhausen’s mouth! Rock then walks around the prone form of Danhausen, as he stomps on each limb Danhausen has and watches Danhausen curl up into the fetal position, Rock caps it off by pulling out Danhausen’s right leg and steps on and over Danhausen's knee.

MICHAEL COLE: Danhausen will have to try and collect that tooth later if he’s even coherent enough to do so by the time this one is over!

WADE BARRETT: I doubt he’ll be able to Cole! The Rock is laying the smackdown on his opponent like only he can!

MICHAEL COLE: I’m not going to give up on Danhausen yet! He’s proven to be more resilient than he looks before so I’m hoping he can do so again tonight!

Rock now talks some trash to his opponent as he grabs onto both legs of his opponent and looks for the sharpshooter, but Danhausen pulls him in and shoves him off and into the ropes and as Rock stumbles back Danhausen rolls him up for a pin, 1…2…3! NO! Before the official can reach the three-count, Rock kicks out of the attempt with some power, causing Danhausen to fall back into the ropes and as he comes back to Rock, he goes for a running pump kick, but Rock ducks it and drops Danhausen with a nasty-looking spinebuster as Danhausen lays prone in the center of the ring! After connecting with his spinebuster, the crowd pops loud for the set-up as Rock kicks the arms of Danhausen in so he can have clearance for the most electrifying move in sports and entertainment today! Rock now slaps the elbow pad on his arm as he pries it off and tosses it out to ringside at Heyman who fumbles while catching it. Launching himself into the ropes on one side of the ring and then the other before he applies the brakes as he slides back into Danhausen’s prone body and drops an elbow straight down into the heart of his opponent!

WADE BARRETT: The People’s Elbow, Cole! Truly the most electrifying move in sports and entertainment! Now that’s what I’m talking about!

MICHAEL COLE: Things really aren’t looking good for our very nice, very evil Danhausen right now! Come on, kid!

Rock grabs Danhausen by the roots of his hair as he pulls him up off the canvas and whips him hard into the turnbuckle corner and strikes with a body avalanche to Danhausen in the corner and then effortlessly wraps his arms around him, pulls him out of the corner, and throws Danhausen over with a belly-to-belly suplex that leaves a streak of sweat as Danhausen crashes to the mat and slides across the ring! Danhausen gets up but stumbles around as his legs seem to be unable to support him, and the crowd begins to try and cheer Danhausen into a comeback. Rock spins the uneasy-looking Danhausen around and wraps his arm around the man’s neck as he turns the audience's cheers into very loud boos of protest! Rock merely grins as he lifts Danhausen up and drives him sharply down onto his neck and shoulders with a Rock Bottom!!!

WADE BARRETT: The end's not near Cole, the end is here!

MICHAEL COLE: Wait a second, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: What’s happening?!

Two men jump the barricade dressed in all black with masks on as Heyman tries to warn The Rock but runs for his own safety towards the ramp! Both of the men now jump onto the apron of the ring on opposite sides as Rock clearly heard the warning! Rock rushes forward towards one of them and knocks a masked assailant off! He turns around and rushes at the other, but he jumps down to avoid the punishment! The man waves a finger at Rock as if to say that he won’t be fooled so easily! As Rock turns around to check on the other one he gets flattened by a trademark Danhausen MISSILE DROPKICK! Rock quickly gets back up and stumbles backwards towards Danhausen who leaps onto his shoulders from behind and nails Poison Rana! Rock pops back up onto his feet, and Danhausen nails a superkick on Rock that has The Final Boss seeing stars! With Rock down after Danhausen lands his superkick, Danhausen digs deep and uses that last dash of energy to lift Rock up onto his shoulders, Danhausen now finishes off Rock with his match-ending GOODNIGHTHAUSEN! As Rock’s face bounces off his knee and he teeters for a moment before he falls to the canvas and the crowd pops at seeing it! Danhausen quickly hooks the leg of Rock as the referee scrambles to get in position while he watches out for the masked men at ringside, but they merely wait in anticipation at ringside! 1…2…3! Danhausen clutches his face in disbelief when the referee counts for the deciding three!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, DAAANHAAAUUUSEN!

MICHAEL COLE: The masked men once again strike, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: They’ve gone too far this time, Cole! They cost The Final Boss his match!

MICHAEL COLE: Heyman wasn’t much help there either, was he?

WADE BARRETT: What is their agenda? Why did they help Danhausen? I can’t believe we’ve just seen Danhausen qualify for a chance at Money in the Bank!

MICHAEL COLE: I don’t think their goal was to give Danhausen the win. I think they just want to cause as much chaos as they can and The Rock being cost this match certainly makes an impact for them!

The referee grabs Danhausen’s arm as he gets to his feet and raises it into the air! The crowd is going absolutely wild for the chaos that just took place and Danhausen’s victory! Heyman holds his hands over his face as he can’t believe what he’s just seen, and his client Rock is trying to shake off the cobwebs as Danhausen collects his tooth that was knocked out earlier. As Danhausen gets out of the ring he grabs his jar of teeth from ringside and opens it up as he deposits a fresh tooth into the jar before he seals it once again as he makes his way to the backstage area and up the rampway once again holding up his jar of teeth before he backs away through the curtain!

WADE BARRETT: Hold on, Cole! What are they doing now?!

Heyman now screams for Rock to get up as both masked assailants slide into the ring and immediately pounce on Rock with a double spear that drops him to the canvas before unloading with right and left quick jabs to his face that bust The Rock open! Both men now lift him up by his trunks and toss him through the ropes towards the commentary tables at ringside as they exit the ring. One of them stalks Rock like a predator as he tries to get back to his feet as the other begins to rip the visor and monitors off the Spanish Announce Table! As Rock finally manages to get to his feet both men nail him with a kick to the gut before they lift him up and drop him through the announce table with a double powerbomb! Both assailants now jump over the barricade as security rushes down but they’re too late to catch them as they rush their way through the crowd and escape once again!

MICHAEL COLE: It’s been absolute anarchy with those two around!

WADE BARRETT: Who are they?! What do they want?!

MICHAEL COLE: I don’t know, Wade, but they not only cost The Rock his match but now he’s bleeding and utterly destroyed at ringside here in front of us!

WADE BARRETT: We need medical down here now! This is getting to be an even more unsafe working environment as each week goes by!

The scene shifts abruptly to a close-up of Lilly, Alexa Bliss’s cursed doll. The camera fixates on the eerie voodoo doll perched ominously on a bench in the dimly lit locker room. As the shot widens, a shadowy figure lurks in the background, its unsettling presence drawing Isla Dawn nearer despite her growing apprehension. The White Witch approaches Lilly with cautious reverence. Her hands, trembling with a mixture of fear and fascination, reach out to touch the doll. In an instant, the atmosphere and scene change dramatically. The air around Isla crackles with an otherworldly energy as she connects with the supernatural essence within Lilly for the first time. The surroundings warp and shift.

The scene now shows Isla finding herself transported into a surreal realm, bathed in a haunting glow that seems to emanate from Lilly herself. The eerie melody of “Good Friendship” lullaby fills the air, echoing ominously, even back in the arena as Isla stands transfixed before the manifestation of Alexa Bliss’s darker persona. The distorted version of Alexa Bliss materializes before Isla, a sinister mirror of her former self. Pigtails entwined with dark magic, eyes black as midnight, she exudes a malevolent charm that sends shivers down everyone’s spine.

SSI˥ᙠ ∀XƎ˥∀: Hey, Isla.

Alexa’s voice echoes through the arena’s sound system with a chilling undertone. Isla looks shaken, but she holds her ground with a flicker of defiance in her eyes.

ISLA DAWN: Where am I?

Isla’s voice, for once, is trembling yet laced with the commanding presence of a white witch who knows her stuff. Alexa’s dark alter-ego smiles enigmatically at her, her words dripping with cryptic intent.

SSI˥ᙠ ∀XƎ˥∀: Just open your eyes.

Now Isla, driven by a mix of curiosity and the primal instinct of a witch confronting the unknown, obeys without hesitation. Reality twists and contorts around Isla for a moment. She finds herself seated at a table in a spectral dining hall, its ethereal walls adorned with arcane symbols and flickering candlelight. Plates of macabre delicacies surround her - - from charred bones and decaying fruit to spectral spectacles, each dish a testament to the surreal horrors of this supernatural realm.

SSI˥ᙠ ∀XƎ˥∀: Your favorite for starters?

Alexa suggests, her voice a haunting melody that resonates in Isla’s mind. Isla’s eyes narrow in suspicion, yet a part of her is drawn to the challenge of this eerie feast. As Isla reaches for a covered dish, a sudden chill fills the air. Her hardcore daredevil sister, Alba Fyre, clad in shadows walks into the frame and bearing an aura tainted with the same dark magic, materializes beside her. Isla’s sister, twisted by the same malevolent force that has ensnared Alexa, offers her own spectral creation - - a dish that pulses with a sinister life of its own disguised in raw goats minced guts, haggis, the ‘gid auld’ Scottish favorite, served fresh as can be.

Isla’s resolve falters for a moment, uncertainty clouding her features as the surrealism of this dark encounter threatens to overwhelm her. She meets Alexa’s gaze, defiant yet wary, struggling to maintain her composure in the face of these supernatural entities. Suddenly, a piercing scream pierces the veil of the surreal dining hall and Isla’s jolted back to reality, back into the locker room where Alexa Bliss stands before her, concern etched deeply on her features as she looks on at Isla holding Lilly.

ALEXA BLISS: What…what are you doing?

Alexa’s voice trembles with a mixture of fear and bewilderment. Isla’s response is a knowing smile, her eyes now reflecting the depths of a witch’s understanding. Isla’s expression softens, and she steps closer to Alexa, her movements now more assured.

ISLA DAWN: I’ve been to the realm where dreams and nightmares intertwine!

Alexa looks initially stiff with shock, but she slowly relaxes into the hug, seeming to sense the genuine emotion behind Isla’s gesture. The hug is not just an embrace, but a silent exchange of trust and a newfound bond forged in the crucible of the supernatural ordeal Isla glimpsed. The encounter leaves Alexa questioning her reality, while Isla, the witch with a connection to the supernatural, remains haunted and curious by the spectral echoes of her journey into the unknown Lilly.

In the arena, the audience watches in stunned silence, captivated by the eerie spectacle unfolding from Alexa Bliss and The Unholy Union. Murmurs ripple through the crowd, a mixture of unease and fascination palpable as they bear witness to Isla Dawn’s uncanny encounter with the dark forces that lurk beyond the wrestling world. The witch’s presence weaves a spell of uncertainty, leaving everyone to wonder what occult mysteries will unfold in the ongoing saga of Alexa, the Union and Lilly’s curse.

Maxwell Jacob Friedman is shown backstage as he paces back and forth for a moment, turning his attention to somebody as the camera moves its view to reveal Matt Cardona and Chelsea Green. After a moment, MJF puts his hands on his hips and begins to speak.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: You know, as much as I love this t-shirt and as much as I love that we took Jay White to Dick Kick City two times last week, I’m going to love tonight even more if you can manage to beat him in this Money in the Bank qualifying match.

Matt can’t help but laugh for a moment as he points towards their joint merchandise t-shirt that MJF is wearing which is now available on WWEShop.



MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: This is the opportunity of a lifetime for you; hell, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime for anybody who qualifies! But remember, the most important thing about this match is taking out Jay White once and for all.

MATT CARDONA: Bro, don’t worry, Jay White doesn’t stand a chance against me. After I’m done with him, he’s going to wish he’d never signed his WWE contract in the first place.

Max grins at the prospect of seeing White decimated in the ring by Cardona.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: So, you don’t need me out there, right? Because if you need me out there, I’ll be happy to do whatever I can to help out. Never mind, Chelsea knows the deal, she’s good to help out if I’m not there. She’s one of the best at taking care of business, she’ll find a way to keep your spirits up and motivate you, right?

MJF looks towards Chelsea for a moment and arches an eyebrow before he smiles and nods his head at her.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: You know, you’d probably get along with Mandy real well.

Chelsea returns the smile.

CHELSEA GREEN: Maybe the four of us can all get together for drinks after the show to celebrate Matt’s win, how does that sound?

MATT CARDONA: That sounds great babe! I could definitely go for an ice cold PBR after kicking Jay White’s ass all over the place.

Cardona looks at Friedman with an arched eyebrow.

MATT CARDONA: You like PBR, right bro?

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Listen, pay me enough, and I can like just about anything, but let’s do this with some real style. I know this little café; it’s far away from the usual crowd in North Dakota, and it’s exquisite. They’ve got a wine from the Châteauneuf du Pape region of France, and it’s to die for. You’ll love it, Chelsea will love it, Mandy will love it, and most importantly, I’ll love it. Gotta expand those horizons, my man. We can have PBR’s when we’re bumming it in the locker room, but out there in the real world...let’s class it up a bit, you know?

Matt opens his mouth to speak, but Chelsea cuts him off before he can say anything.

CHELSEA GREEN: I think that sounds just lovely, Max.

She turns to look at Matt.

CHELSEA GREEN: Doesn’t that sound lovely, Matt?

Chelsea looks at him with an expectant expression, and he just sighs and nods.

MATT CARDONA: Yeah, that sounds…great.

Max puts his arm around Matt’s shoulder and drags him away a bit before he whispers.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Next door to this place, they’ve got skee-ball and arcade games. Need I mention there’s also the diviest bar you’ve ever seen inside of there? You can get PBR’s until you black out, or at least until Chelsea is wined up enough that she won’t care.

Max spins them back around towards Chelsea.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: They’ve also got a cigar collection to die for in the café, bro. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back too!

Matt looks at Chelsea, who smiles widely at him. Turning back to Friedman, he smirks as he nods.

MATT CARDONA: Alright bro, count me in. But first, I need to take care of Jay White, that walking sack of shi - -

CHELSEA GREEN: Matt! Could you please be a bit more dignified?

Max shrugs his shoulders.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Chelsea, it’s not like he’s telling lies, Jay White is a walking pile of excrement. At least, he’s still a walking pile of excrement until Matt takes care of him tonight.

MATT CARDONA: And that’s exactly what I’ll do, when for the third time, I take him to Dick Kick City.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Get your tickets while they’re hot! Next stop, Dick Kick City!

Max puts a hand on Matt’s shoulder again.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: Just not while the referee is paying attention. We do need to make sure that he doesn’t get some idea that he’s better than you by having the official for the match disqualify you.

Matt nods.

MATT CARDONA: Good call, bro. Well, I guess I better get out there and get this done!

Max holds his fist out as Matt looks at it for a moment and grins, FIST BUMP!

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: You got this, bro! Take out the trash!

Max gives a sly wink to Chelsea as he pats Matt on the back as he walks away, a smile is plastered over MJF’s face as he shakes his head and laughs.

MAXWELL JACOB FRIEDMAN: DICK. KICK. CITY! BAYBAY!

As Max walks away from the scene now, he straightens out his jacket and the scene switches to the announce desk.

MICHAEL COLE: Well that doesn’t seem to bode well for what’s coming up next!

WADE BARRETT: What are you talking about, Cole? Maxwell Jacob Friedman and Matt Cardona working together? What could be more beautiful than that?

MICHAEL COLE: While I admit that’s quite the pairing, it’s definitely not going to help White’s chances!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is a Money in the Bank Qualifier match! Making his way to the ring, representing Bullet Club Red, Switchblaaade Jayyy Whiiite!



MICHAEL COLE: Jay White looking for a measure of revenge here tonight against Matt Cardona after the surprise attack last week.

WADE BARRETT: How did White not see that one coming?

MICHAEL COLE: Can you blame White for trying to see the good in some people? Cardona proved he couldn’t be trusted.

WADE BARRETT: Well, White has his hands full tonight.

Jay doesn’t seem too happy at this point, not really interacting with the crowd at all as he takes his jacket off and focuses on the entrance ramp for his opponent.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent, from Long Island, New York, accompanied by Chellllsea Greeeeen!…Maaatt Caaarrrdooonaaa!

MICHAEL COLE: Big opportunity here for Cardona to punch his ticket into the Money in the Bank match.

WADE BARRETT: With Chelsea Green by his side, how can he fail?

MICHAEL COLE: Hard to disagree. Green might be a factor in this one before it’s all over.

Cardona takes his time getting himself ready for the match, staring across the ring and slowly taking off his jacket, a smug look on his face the whole time.

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Jay White has certainly had his hands full with those who are seemingly aligning themselves with Stephanie McMahon and HHH here as of late. That was a move that Matt Cardona seemingly made last week, aligning himself with MJF and turning on White after it appeared he was coming out to help the Bullet Club Red member. The term “Dick Kick City’” has certainly been used and maybe even overused in the last week since that attack with both MJF and Cardona drilling White with a low blow. As heinous as that attack was, both men now have to set their sights on winning an opportunity to be in the Money in the Bank ladder match. A proverbial guarantee of holding the world title if your cards are played right, step one is winning your qualifying match. White has been on a bit of a roll as of late, but Cardona will have a significant size and weight advantage in this one. The referee checks with Jay White first and then moves over to Cardona, ushering Chelsea Green out of the ring before making sure both men are ready to go. They both give a nod, and the referee calls for the bell, getting this one underway.

MICHAEL COLE: And here we go now, Jay White against Matt Cardona in a Money in the Bank qualifier!

WADE BARRETT: As much as I besmirch Jay White at times, he and Cardona are both great athletes and I could see either one winning the ladder match.

MICHAEL COLE: Absolutely.

The two come to lock up but Jay White skips that and starts going right into punching Cardona, knocking him backwards. White is drilling Cardona now, really throwing some huge punches into Matt’s face. Cardona swings back, trying to hit White with a big right hand but Jay ducks under it and spins Cardona around. Matt’s back is facing Jay and he grabs him from behind, lifting him up for what seems like is going to be a back body drop but Jay drops him forward, face first onto the mat. Cardona grabs at his face in pain as Jay rolls back and up to his feet. He bounces off the ropes and comes running at the downed Cardona, diving and driving his feet right into Cardona’s face. Matt goes rolling on the mat repeatedly until he gets to the bottom rope, and he rolls under it. Chelsea Green runs around the ring and meets her man on the apron. Jay White steps through the ropes and Chelsea gives way. Before White can do anything, Cardona grabs his leg, pulling himself back up to his feet and they’re both standing toe to toe on the apron now. A kick to the midsection from Cardona doubles Jay White over. Matt grabs Jay around the head and falls backward, driving Jay White’s head into the apron with a DDT as Cardona tumbles to the floor below! The crowd gasps at the impact from the maneuver!

MICHAEL COLE: What an absolutely brutal move there from Matt Cardona!

WADE BARRETT: It’s all about ring wherewithal and he has it, Cole!

Chelsea Green helps Cardona back up to his feet as Jay White lies on the apron motionless, finally starting to move and pull himself together. Cardona doesn’t let Jay get to his feet though as he pulls him off the apron to the floor below with him. The referee’s count is only to four as Matt whips Jay into the steel ring post and Jay’s arm wraps around it on impact, swinging him around to the floor. White grabs at his shoulder while Cardona throws his arms up, pandering to the crowd. Matt grabs Jay and pulls him back up to his feet, rolling him into the ring as the referee’s count is now at seven. Cardona rolls in after him but Jay has pulled himself up to his feet and stomps on Matt’s hands as he goes to stand up. White bounces off the ropes and hits Cardona with a sling blade! Cardona bounces back up quickly though but White is off the other ropes and hitting Matt with another sling blade! He goes for a pin! 1….2….2.5! Cardona gets a shoulder up! Both men are scrambling back to their feet, but both are showing the effects of this match so far. There’s a little back and forth between the two men now as they trade moves back and forth. First a bodyslam and then a clothesline, with neither one willing to give in to the impact and rising back to their feet quickly. They go face to face now and start talking smack to one another once more.

WADE BARRETT: These two men do not like one another!

MICHAEL COLE: It certainly seems like there’s a lot of bad blood between these two here tonight. Can’t say I blame Jay White though.

Cardona shoves White right in the face, knocking him back. Jay comes back with a right punch, but Cardona blocks it, coming back with a right of his own. Jay is staggered a bit but comes back, drilling Cardona in the face with a right of his own. Jay grabs Matt and whips him into the corner, coming in right after him and drilling Cardona with a clothesline right as his back smacks into the corner. Matt staggers out of the corner as Jay hops up to the second rope, taking flight and grabbing Cardona around the head and driving it into the mat with a bulldog! He goes for the pin. 1…2….2.999! A kick out by Cardona again! Both men again scramble back to their feet and Cardona jumps up, drilling Jay White right in the jaw with a dropkick, knocking him back and down! Both men try to gather themselves on the mat. White is up first and looking to strike quickly, but again Cardona grabs him by the boot, lifting him up and back onto his back again. Now it’s Cardona on his feet while Jay is down, trying to stay on the offensive. Jay grabs his leg now, taking him down to the mat so both men are down again. They both scramble to their feet but White grabs Cardona from behind, rushing him forward and into the ropes. Jay White pulls Cardona back and over him, rolling him and holding him down as the referee counts. 1…2…No! Cardona continues to roll and now he’s on top, pinning White’s shoulders to the mat. Matt pulls a handful of tights as he holds Jay down for the pin. 1…2….3! Yes! No! White kicks his legs out, shoving Cardona forward into the referee, but Matt stops just mere inches from drilling the ref and holds his hands up defensively! Chelsea Green hops up on the apron and starts screaming at the ref about almost putting their hands on Cardona! Matt and the referee look over at Chelsea who is beside herself. The referee starts to admonish her and is distracted as Maxwell Jacob Friedman has run in through the crowd and is on the apron now! The crowd is yelling ecstatically trying to warn White but before MJF can strike, Pat McAfee runs down the ramp and around the ring where Max is waiting, grabbing his foot and pulling him off the apron to raucous cheers! Friedman rears back and drills McAfee a stiff right! Cardona goes over the ropes to try and help MJF with his McAfee problem, but he’s grabbed from behind by Jay White and rolled up! The referee gets Chelsea Green off the apron and turns to see White pinning Cardona with a school boy! He makes the count! 1..2…3! He got him!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, JAYYY WHIIITE!

MICHAEL COLE: MJF tried to interfere, but Pat McAfee made the save!

WADE BARRETT: McAfee had no business being out here! Bullet Club Red is just a group of thugs and gangbangers!

MICHAEL COLE: Friedman tried to interfere first and McAfee saved Jay White!

MJF’s eyes widen as he realizes what’s just happened. Cardona jumps up, smacking his fists into the mat. Jay White rolls out of the ring quickly, grabbing McAfee at ringside and hosting him up. Pat seems staggered, confused and a little bit lost but he hears Bullet Club Red’s music and knows he got the job done. Jay pats McAfee on the shoulders as they both hold their hands up victoriously.

MICHAEL COLE: Jay White has qualified for the men’s Money in the Bank, and he’s one step closer to achieving his goals of becoming WWE Champion! Meanwhile, Cardona and Friedman certainly don’t look very happy about how things went down here tonight, so I hope White and McAfee watch their backs! That’s all the time we have for tonight, folks. Join us next week live from Billings Montana as we have more Money in the Bank Qualifying matches and the final showdown between Diesel and Swerve Strickland! Goodnight, everybody!