Monday Night RAW 7-22-2024

As we come back from the commercial break, the jam-packed arena is cheering and holding up signs as the camera pans over the crowd the atmosphere electric. Vampiro’s music hits, and the lights dim to a dark purple hue. The TitanTron displays eerie visuals as smoke billows from the entrance ramp. Vampiro, dressed in his signature leather jacket, slowly makes his way to the ring, his presence menacing and filled with dark energy. Vampiro grabs a microphone and looks around the arena with a sinister smile

VAMPIRO: You all sit here week after week, cheering for your heroes, hoping for your happy endings. But deep down, you know that darkness always finds a way to creep back in. And tonight, I am that darkness.

The crowd boos, a mixture of fear and excitement in their reactions.

VAMPIRO: You see, I’ve come here to remind each and every one of you that your heroes are mere mortals, and I am an eternal nightmare. I am here to unleash chaos, to bring an end to your false sense of security.

Paul Heyman’s music interrupts, and he nervously steps onto the ramp, microphone in hand. He cautiously makes his way to the ring, his usual confidence replaced by a skittish demeanor.

PAUL HEYMAN: Ian, let's not make this personal. This...this isn't about you or me. It's about Solo Sikoa and his family. They felt there was a loose tie, a matter that needed closure. That's why Solo did not win at Money in the Bank. His family needed to know everything was settled. Going forward, they won't rest until every last issue is resolved….

The arena goes silent, tension thick in the air. Suddenly, the heartbeat sound echoes over the PA system, and the lights flicker erratically. Vampiro’s smile grows more sinister as he revels in the chaos. Out of nowhere, Jacob Fatu emerges from the crowd, sliding into the ring with a steel chair in hand. The crowd gasps in shock and fear. Vampiro turns around, sensing something is wrong, but it's too late!

Fatu swings the chair with brutal force, smashing it into Vampiro’s back. Vampiro crumples to the mat, and Fatu stands over him, chair in hand, his face a mask of rage. The crowd is in stunned silence, horrified by the sudden violence. Solo Sikoa’s music hits, and he rushes down the ramp, sliding into the ring to join his cousin. The crowd’s shock deepens as they watch the scene unfold.

Paul Heyman steps back, his expression a mix of relief and satisfaction. Fatu and Solo lift Vampiro off the mat. Solo grabs the chair, placing it in the center of the ring. They position Vampiro for a powerbomb. Solo and Fatu, with perfect synchronization, hoist Vampiro high into the air and drive him down onto the steel chair with a thunderous powerbomb. The impact echoes throughout the arena, and Vampiro lies motionless on the mat.

The crowd remains in shocked silence, horrified by the brutality of the attack. Solo and Fatu stand over Vampiro’s broken form, their faces showing no remorse. Heyman enters the ring, raising both Fatu’s and Solo’s hands as the crowd watches in stunned disbelief. The camera zooms in on Vampiro’s broken form, his sinister smile now replaced by a look of utter defeat.

MICHAEL COLE: Ladies and gentlemen, this is a shocking turn of events. Paul Heyman just revealed why Solo Sikoa didn't win at Money in the Bank. It wasn't about his abilities; it was about family and closure!

WADE BARRETT: That’s right, Cole. Solo’s family felt there was unfinished business, and they needed to tie up those loose ends before Solo could truly ascend to the top!

MICHAEL COLE: This was a brutal message. Vampiro thought he could intimidate the WWE Universe, but Solo and Jacob Fatu have shown that their family means business, and they’ll stop at nothing to protect it.

Referees rush into the ring, frantically attending to Vampiro. They help his limp body, yelling for medical assistance as the severity of the situation sinks in. With sinister smiles forming on their faces, Solo and Jacob go to the ropes and exit the ring, jumping down to the floor and stalking up the ramp towards the back, with Paul Heyman following close behind.

The cameras go to the backstage area where Mankind, the new Intercontinental Champion, is standing with his title draped over his shoulder. He looks down at the ground, his body language uncertain and his expression conflicted.

MANKIND: Do they really want me as their champion? Maybe this was just a fluke...

An intern walks by and stops, beaming at Mankind.

INTERN: Congratulations, Mankind! You deserve it!

Mankind looks up briefly, a small smile forming, but he quickly looks down again.

MANKIND: Thank you...

As he continues to walk down the corridor, more interns and referees pass by, offering their congratulations and pats on the back.

REFEREE: Great job, Mankind! Well done!

Mankind’s posture starts to straighten, his confidence visibly growing with each compliment. He starts to hold his head a little higher, a grin spreading across his face.

MANKIND: Maybe...maybe they do believe in me...

Lost in his growing excitement, Mankind doesn’t see Adam Cole walking in the opposite direction. They collide, and Mankind stumbles back, eyes wide.

MANKIND: Oh, I’m so sorry, Adam. I didn’t see you there.

Adam Cole’s face contorts in disgust, clearly unimpressed with the encounter. Mankind, now standing taller and more confident, adjusts his title and gives a sincere nod to Cole.

MANKIND: Really, I didn’t mean to bump into you. I’ll be more careful.

The camera captures Cole’s disdainful expression as he speaks to Mankind.

ADAM COLE: Who the…of course it would be you, right? You know I couldn’t believe my eyes when it happened, but now seeing you with that title…you know you got lucky, right?

Mankind looks genuinely apologetic, his eyes meeting Cole’s for a moment before glancing at the ground again.

MANKIND: I’m really sorry, Adam. I didn’t mean to bump into you. And, well, maybe I did get a little lucky... but sometimes, luck is just what you need. Maybe I’ve got more to prove, but I’ll give it everything I’ve got.

Adam Cole’s face contorts in disgust, clearly unimpressed with the encounter. Mankind, still standing tall and confident, adjusts his title and gives a sincere nod to Cole.

MANKIND: Really, I didn’t mean to bump into you. I’ll be more careful friend.

Adam doesn’t appear to be very forgiving as he shakes his head at the new champ.

ADAM COLE: Now that you’re a champion you should be more careful, and you say you have more to prove? How about putting that title on the line against Adam Cole?

Before Mankind can respond, Brody King storms in and attacks Cole, not finished with their match earlier. The force of the attack knocks Cole into Mankind, causing Mankind to hit his head and get knocked out. Brody King admires his carnage, grabbing the Intercontinental Championship and staring at it with a sinister grin before tossing it onto the ground next to Mankind. Security and referees rush in to break up the chaos as the camera goes back to ringside.

MICHAEL COLE: It appears as though they are taking Cole and Mankind to the nearby medical center. They’re saying it’s just precautionary measures after the attack by Brody King.

WADE BARRETT: He was looking very interested in the Intercontinental Championship and so was Adam Cole. You have to imagine that after an attack like that our Co-Owners will be looking to sort that situation out sooner rather than later.

MICHAEL COLE: I don’t know how wise that would be, King is obviously mentally unstable and after an attack like that he shouldn’t be given any sort of opportunity. But we should be worrying about Orange Cassidy because he’s coming up against a man who is equally as violent in Gunther!

”Where is my Mind” - Pixies hits the sound system of the arena as a very casual stride brings out the form of the newly signed Orange Cassidy. He gives a half thumbs-up to the fans as they cheer his arrival and makes his way down the ring at an even pace to his arrival on the stage. Straightening out his jean jacket as he adjust his shades on his face a bit while walking down the rampway.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, making his way to the ring Oraaange Cassidy!

MICHAEL COLE: I don’t know much about Orange Cassidy but he seems to have a very sure stride and looks confident in his abilities!

WADE BARRETT: But how well is he going to fare against a monster of a man like Gunther? That’s the real question that he’ll have to answer tonight, Cole!

”Prepare to Fight” by Def Rebel begins to play over the P/A system as The Ring General steps out onto the stage and assumes a military-like pose of an attention stance as he stares out at the crowd who are loudly booing him. His nose scrunching up on his face as if a foul smell has drifted to his nostrils from the crowd.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent; The Ring General, Guuuntheeer!

MICHAEL COLE: Gunther is a man-on-a-mission when he steps through the curtain, his only goal is victory!

WADE BARRETT: Well tonight it looks as though he’s going to get an easy one against the kid who looks like a twig compared to him!

Gunther wastes no time in taking off his jacket as he gets down to the ring and steps up the ring stairs. As he reaches the center of the ropes he poses once again before quickly stepping through the ropes and sizing up his opponent as he gets a confident half-grin on his face at the amount of ease he thinks Orange is going to be to handle.

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Gunther rushes forward for a lariat but Orange, with his hand still in his pocket, rolls under the attempt. As Gunther turns to retaliate, Orange uses his own legs to trap Gunther’s and rolls him up for the pin, 1…2…3!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: HERE IS YOUR WINNER, ORAAANGE CASSIDY!

MICHAEL COLE: Quick as you can blink and this one is over!

WADE BARRETT: Orange Cassidy just beat Gunther?!

Orange is rolling out of the ring as Gunther scrambles to his feet and takes a swing but it’s too late. Cassidy puts his sunglasses back on and just raises the corner of his mouth enough to infuriate Gunther who is complaining to the official about it being a quick count. The crowd is very pleased it seems however as they begin to chant “ORANGE! ORANGE! ORANGE!” Orange backs up the rampway and can’t help but give a halfway decent wave to the crowd for approval before he turns and heads to the back.

The camera now cuts to a dimly lit room, shadows flickering across the stone walls as candlelight casts an eerie glow. The air is thick with mysticism, and an altar adorned with ancient symbols and ritualistic artifacts takes center stage. A hush falls over the WWE Universe as the TitanTron transitions to this mysterious location.

Suddenly, the ethereal sound of a haunting melody fills the arena, and the camera focuses on Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre standing beside the altar. Dressed in dark clothing, their faces are solemn, their eyes filled with an almost trance-like intensity. The crowd murmurs, some already captivated at the Unholy Union’s recent offerings. The screen shows quick, unsettling cuts of Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre confronting, defeating, and dominating their opponents. On top of all of this, various ancient cult art of witches performing their craft overlay the scenes now and then. Isla’s voice comes in, low and resonant as a voiceover as the clips play.

ISLA DAWN: For far too long, we have sought control… wrestled with the tangible… tried to bend the world to our will. We have fought for dominance in the ring and clashed with those who dared to stand in our way. Yet, all the while, we were blind to the truth, clinging to our egos, desperate for power over what cannot be tamed.

Alba Fyre steps forward, her eyes burning with an otherworldly light as she raises her hands, the flickering flames casting dancing shadows across her face as the scene plays.

ALBA FYRE: Yes, our power for control was in vain. The universe is vast, its mysteries unfathomable, and we are but mere vessels in the grand tapestry of existence. Our summonings, our rituals, they were but whispers in the void, calling out to something greater… something that’s now far beyond our comprehension. Finally, it all came together. Our invocations have been heard; our sacrifices acknowledged. We have shed our egos, relinquished our need for control, and in return, we have been granted an audience with the unknown.



The spectral figure pulsates with an energy that seems to transcend the boundaries of the physical world. Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre bow their heads in unison as Alba speaks, her voice an almost haunting chant.

ALBA FYRE: By the ancient rites and the forgotten names, we again submit ourselves to the will of the beyond. We again surrender our mortal desires, our fleeting ambitions, and embrace the greater path laid before us.

The camera zooms in on their faces, illuminated by the supernatural glow, their expressions serene yet filled with an unearthly determination. The package now quickly highlights Isla’s dealings with Liv Morgan, Alexa Bliss and very recently Dakota Kai. She chimes in with a softer tone speaking from understanding.

ISLA DAWN: Sometimes trust is shattered, leaving scars deeper than any wound. Some have shown me the treacherous nature of trust and betrayal. It was a lesson I will never forget. But from that darkness, I found strength, a strength that has brought me here with you now.

She looks at Alba Fyre and then to a small, ominous jack-in-the-box on the altar, which you would only think would represent the Jester. The box sits quietly, though its presence adds a sense of unease to the scene.

ALBA FYRE: We again have been chosen to be the harbingers and no longer will we fight just for ourselves or for our own gain. We’ll fight for something far greater, something that has peaked many people's attention, but only our devotion.



The scene flickers, and the TitanTron transitions to flashbacks of their dealings with other women on the roster since their re-debut in April. The eerie jack-in-the-box remains a constant symbol throughout these encounters. The camera returns to the present, where the spectral figure begins to dissipate, leaving behind a lingering aura of mystery to the scene. Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre rise, their eyes gleaming with a new-found resolve.

ISLA DAWN: A team is more than just a group of individuals. It’s a bond forged in fire, a unity born from shared sacrifice and understanding. We are a force that transcends the boundaries of the physical. We are simply bound.

ALBA FYRE: And to those who dare to stand in our way, know this. You are not facing us alone. You are facing the might of the unknown, the wrath of the beyond. The darkness we’ve released, the disappearance of Alexa Bliss and the arrival of Jester, were all just the beginning.

ISLA DAWN: We have summoned something far greater, and next week we will show you exactly why the Unholy Union cannot be denied.

With the two women cackling away together, the screen fades to black. We’re now back in the arena with the audience in a state of awe and anticipation, the air electric with the promise of what is to come.

The segment ends, but the message lingers. The Unholy Union have embraced a power beyond their own, and the WWE Universe will never be the same again. The whispers of their intentions echo through the arena, hinting at a dark resurgence in the women's division next week.

We go backstage now to focus on Bron Breakker, standing alone in a hallway and looking directly at the camera, laser focused. If it looks like the loss hit him hard, he’s not showing it, as eyes as hard as flint look into the camera. After a moment, and a breath, the expression softens somewhat.

BRON BREAKKER: Last Saturday night, I had the opportunity that any wrestler dreams of: the opportunity that could make a superstar’s career. I stepped into the ring with Diesel and did everything I could to take him down and…unfortunately, I came up a little short.

Another soft sigh as the crowd shouts their support from in the ring.

BRON BREAKKER: That’s okay, though, because I’m not one to sit and cry about spilled milk. I’m the type of man to go to the fridge and pour myself a whole new glass Because when Bron Breakker gets knocked down, he don’t sit home in his pajamas with a bowl of ice cream and cry about it! He rubs some dirt in it and he GETS. BACK. UP.

The ghost of a smile curls Bron’s lip.

BRON BREAKKER: And that’s exactly what it’s going to do. I’m throwing out an open challenge for RAW next week. Anyone in that locker room, if you think you’re big enough to topple the biggest dog in the yard, then I want you to come out and prove it. Just don’t be surprised when you get bit.

Bron lets out an animalistic “bark!” into the camera before striding out of frame. The camera lingers on the open hallway for a moment, showing a hooded figure emerging from one of the side doors and looking in the direction Bron just left. The camera doesn’t catch his face as he turns and walks the opposite direction, and the camera fades out.

As the crowd cheers in anticipation, the TitanTron flickers, and familiar pink and blue images start to fill the screen, eliciting a mixed reaction from the fans. Michael Cole sighs audibly.

MICHAEL COLE: Oh no, not these stupid promos again.

The screen cuts to a series of dynamic images, yet again showcasing Lola Vice’s MMA background. Her fierce determination and skill are evident in every shot, her intense focus captured in slow motion as she executes powerful kicks and punches. The scene shifts to her debut match against Britt Baker, where despite her loss, her raw talent and potential were undeniable. Lola’s voice now commands attention through a voiceover.

LOLA VICE: My journey has been anything but ordinary. From the octagon to the squared circle, I’ve faced challenges that would break most people. But not me. Every defeat, every setback has only ever fueled my fight. I am a force that cannot be defined. Money in the Bank? Who cares? It is what it is. History. Besides, everyone knows that briefcase would look better on me anyway. The spotlight, the opportunity, the power - - it all belongs to me, and soon, everyone will see that.

The video transitions to glamorous photo shoots, capturing Lola in a different light. Her confident poses and piercing gaze convey a mix of beauty and strength. She speaks directly to the camera, her voice calm yet filled with conviction.



LOLA VICE: They try to put me in a box, to label me as just another fighter, just another wrestler, just another model. But I am so much more. I am relentless. I am unbreakable. And soon, everyone will see exactly what Lola Vice is capable of. This is only the beginning. Nos vemos pronto.

The words “See you soon” appear on the screen in bold pink letters, and then the video fades to black. The camera cuts back to the commentary team, where Michael Cole shakes his head in frustration.

MICHAEL COLE: Will she ever actually compete?

WADE BARRETT: Patience, Cole! Perfection can’t be rushed!

MICHAEL COLE: I’m just saying, Lola’s gonna have to do a lot more than just talk if she expects to hang with the women’s division that we’ve been building up here. The women’s Money in the Bank match especially raised the bar around here!

WADE BARRETT: it certainly did, Cole, that match was without a doubt a turning point for the women of the WWE!

MICHAEL COLE: It absolutely was, and one of those women who put it all on the line was Britt Baker, who came incredibly close to winning before being pushed off of her ladder and sent crashing through two tables at ringside by eventual winner Dakota Kai. Despite what she went through, Britt is here tonight, and she looks to bounce back from a couple of losses and correct her momentum as she goes one-on-one with Rhea Ripley in our next match!

WADE BARRETT: I’ll tell you what, Britt Baker is one tough cookie, but she has her work cut out for her tonight! Rhea Ripley hasn’t been doing much in recent weeks, and given that The Eradicator is used to being a top dog, you have to imagine she’s getting a little restless!

”Demon in Your Dreams” by Motionless in White begins to play on the speakers and the crowd begins to cheer as Rhea Ripley makes her way to the top of the ramp. Looking out at the crowd with a determined expression, Rhea lifts up her right leg before bringing it down as pyro goes off, and she then makes her way down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Making her way to the ring, The Eradicator, Rheeea Riiipleeey!

MICHAEL COLE: Like you said before, Wade, we haven’t seen much of Rhea Ripley lately and she’s likely getting restless. A win here tonight could do big things for her confidence!

WADE BARRETT: Well no matter what happens tonight, I hope we see more of Rhea going forward - - and her partner, Liv Morgan for that matter!

Rhea gets to the bottom of the ramp and goes to the side of the ring, hopping up onto the apron and turning around, looking out at the crowd as a devilish smile begins to form on her face. Stepping into the ring, Rhea takes off her vest and hands it off to a ringside attendant, rolling her arms and turning her attention to the entrance area as her music fades out. “Turn Up the Radio” by Autograph begins to play now, and the crowd’s cheers get louder as Britt Baker makes her way to the top of the ramp. Looking at the crowd with a smile, Britt holds her arms out to the side as she calls out to the crowd, getting them pumped up as she makes her way down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And her opponent, making her way to the ring, Brrriiitt Baaakerrr!

MICHAEL COLE: Once again, Britt Baker had an astounding performance in the women’s Money in the Bank, and I think it’s safe to say we’re looking at the future of the WWE women’s division right here!

WADE BARRETT: I’d be more inclined to say Dakota Kai is the future, but Britt Baker isn’t too shabby, I suppose.

Britt gets to the bottom of the ramp, slapping a few hands as she makes her way over to the steel steps and bounds up to the apron. Entering the ring, Britt takes off her jacket and hands it off to the ringside attendant. As her music fades, Britt turns to Rhea and nods, the smile on her face giving way to a more determined expression.

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The bell rings and Britt lets out a deep breath as the two ladies circle the ring. They immediately lock up and Rhea Ripley uses her strength advantage to push Britt against the ropes and the referee tells her to let go immediately. The Eradicator does as she’s told and she backs off, allowing Britt to get off the ropes and towards the center of the ring. Once Britt is there, the two ladies lock up again and this time, Britt delivers a knee to the midsection which causes Rhea’s grip to loosen a bit. Britt delivers another knee which causes Rhea to let go altogether, and Britt, still hanging onto Rhea’s arm, twists around and applies a wristlock! Ripley grimaces in pain as Baker wrenches on the hold, before Irish whipping The Eradicator into the ropes. When Rhea comes back, however, she nails Britt with a shoulder block that sends her crashing down to the mat!

MICHAEL COLE: There’s that power of Rhea Ripley on display!

WADE BARRETT: She absolutely has the advantage in that area, plus she wasn’t just in a brutal ladder match a little over a week ago!

Rhea bends down to pick up Britt, but Britt sweeps Rhea’s legs out from under her, sending her down to the mat! Britt quickly goes for the pin, 1…Rhea immediately kicks out! Both women are on their feet, and Britt comes charging in at Rhea, but Rhea moves quickly, nailing Britt with a big boot! Britt crashes back down to the mat once again and Rhea goes for the pin now, hooking Britt’s leg, 1…2...kick out by Britt Baker!

MICHAEL COLE: I have to say, Britt Baker is putting up a hell of a fight!

WADE BARRETT: She certainly is, but she may want to consider just staying down. I don’t know if she can really afford to take any more damage to her body!

Rhea nods as she goes up to her knees, and she grabs Britt by the hair as she starts to climb to her feet. Once she’s standing, she throws Britt’s head between her legs and starts to lift her up for a powerbomb however, Britt once again uses her arms to sweep Rhea’s leg’s out from under her, sending Rhea crashing down on her back! Still holding on to Rhea’s legs, Britt flips over and bridges herself as she goes for another pin attempt, 1…2…Rhea kicks out! Both women are on their feet once again and Rhea goes for a clothesline but Britt ducks the attempt, and then turns around and quickly nails Rhea with a superkick! Rhea falls down to the mat and Britt desperately goes for the pin, once again hooking the leg, 1…2…THRENOO! Rhea just barely gets the shoulder up!

MICHAEL COLE: I thought Britt was about to end it, but Rhea’s still in this!

WADE BARRETT: She got that shoulder up just in time, and you have to wonder if this was Britt’s only chance to put Rhea away!

Britt looks distraught as she starts to get to her feet, shaking her head as she can’t believe she wasn’t able to end the match just now. As she’s standing, she watches as Rhea starts to get up, and as Ripley gets to all fours, Britt rushes in and looks to nail her with The Stomp but Rhea sees it coming and dodges the move, causing Britt to stumble and lose her balance. As she turns around, Rhea kicks her in the midsection causing her to double over, and then grabs her and puts her arms through Britt’s legs, lifting her up and looking to hit The Riptide. However, Britt wriggles free and slides down Rhea’s back, landing on the mat and quickly rolling Rhea up with a surprise schoolgirl pin! 1…2…3! Britt Baker gets the win!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, BRRRIIITT BAAAKERRR!

MICHAEL COLE: Britt Baker did it! It was a fairly back and forth match, despite Rhea Ripley’s power, and in the end Britt was able to come through with the victory!

WADE BARRETT: Well she certainly lucked out, I can say that much, Cole. She clearly caught Rhea by surprise and that’s what got her the win here tonight!

The crowd is going wild as “Turn Up the Radio” begins playing on the speakers again and Britt quickly gets to her feet and has her hand raised in the air by the referee. She looks like she’s slightly shocked, as if she can’t quite believe she was able to get the win over Ripley. For her part, Rhea looks fairly surprised as well, as she slowly gets to her feet and looks at Britt with her hands on her hips. Britt slowly pulls her hand away from the referee and walks towards Rhea who is staring at her intently, breathing heavily. After a moment, Rhea extends her hand and Britt looks down at it, then back up at Rhea and offers a smile as she accepts the handshake. The crowd continues to cheer loudly at this display of sportsmanship, as Rhea gives Britt a clap on the shoulder before turning and exiting the ring. Britt meanwhile smiles and points to the fans before going over to the ropes herself, exiting the ring and hopping down to the floor. Slapping outstretched hands of the fans just as she did during her entrance, Britt smiles and thanks the fans for their support as she makes her way up the ramp, and she stops at the top and looks out at the crowd, giving them one final parting wave before turning and heading to the back.

MICHAEL COLE: Folks, RAW rolls on and we've - - wait, what's that? Oh, it appears that we have a big development concerning Danhausen and the Money in the Bank contract!

WADE BARRETT: That nitwit said that he was cashing in the Money in the Bank contract tonight, but we haven't seen him all night!

MICHAEL COLE: Well, wait no longer!

We abruptly cut to the jarring up-close shot of Danhausen's face, while he argues a bit with the cameraman behind the lens. Danhausen quickly shuffles back, smiles awkwardly and waves to the camera, holding up the Money in the Bank briefcase proudly.

DANHAUSEN: Greetings, my new underlings! It is your dear leader, of which you have surrendered your will to - - the great and powerful DANHAUSEN! Excellent news! Danhausen has achieved his goal and has captured the "Human Monies in the Vault" briefcase, albeit Danhausen has put his human vessel through a tremendous amount of pain to do so. Nonetheless, Danhausen did what he set out to and it is time to reap the fruits of those labors! So, my loyal followers - let's do just that! It's time for Danhausen to cash in the "Human Monies in the Vault" briefcase!

Danhausen holds up the briefcase and smiles, like a kid on the first day of school.

MICHAEL COLE: Alright! He's cashing it in! Here we go! A little strange that he's announcing his cash-in, but you can always expect the unexpected when it comes to Danhausen.

Danhausen lowers the briefcase, and the camera pulls back to reveal the building behind Danhausen...

THE ALBUQUERQUE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

WADE BARRETT: Oh no...

Danhausen steps into the grand lobby of the bank, clutching his cherished Money in the Bank briefcase close to him. It’s a classy joint with large glass windows and polished marble floors. A group of customers are working with tellers, and the murmurs of the transactions all came to a screeching halt the second that Danhausen walks in. A teller, likely trying to get ahead of this weirdo in her lobby, calls out to Danhausen and offers him assistance.

BANK TELLER: Hello, sir! How are you today? Can I help you?

DANHAUSEN: Yes, you there! Human bank worker, Danhausen would like to cash this in!

WADE BARRETT: …I knew it.

Danhausen hoists the briefcase onto the counter, causing a big thud which draws more attention from those around him. The teller is clearly confused, but still does her best.

BANK TELLER: Uh, sir, I'm not sure I understand. You want to cash in that briefcase? Is there money in there?

DANHAUSEN: Yes, yes! This briefcase, well, Danhausen had to risk life and limb to capture it, but Danhausen is quite the tough individual himself! Very underestimated! But, nonetheless, Danhausen conquered 8 other men - - Danhausen punched them in the groin actually, a very effective maneuver - - to capture this briefcase, containing the "Human Monies in the Vault". Now, Danhausen would like to cash this sucker in for the giant sacks of money. Is Danhausen correct in assuming that you provide the giant sacks with a dollar sign on them, or was Danhausen supposed to bring those himself?

WADE BARRETT: You have got to be kidding me. This has to be a joke.

BANK TELLER: ...I ... see? Just a moment, please.

The bank teller leans over to her colleague, whispering urgently while keeping an eye on Danhausen. After a brief consultation, she turns back to him with a polite smile and a nod.

BANK TELLER: I’m sorry, sir, but I don’t think we can process that here. This sounds like something related to...wrestling, correct?

DANHAUSEN: Well, yes. Danhausen is the supreme wrestler of the WWE Universe, and now I have a fancy briefcase to prove it! You see, Danhausen won this fair and square - - no tricks this time. So, please - - cash this in, let's move it along.

Danhausen tries to hurry along the process and pushes the briefcase back across the counter.

BANK TELLER: No, I understand, but our bank deals with financial transactions, not wrestling contracts. You might want to contact WWE management or someone within your company about this.

Danhausen furrows his brow, clearly not comprehending why this isn't working. Danhausen is clearly getting a bit frustrated now.

DANHAUSEN: But this is a bank, yes? And Danhausen has a briefcase that entitles me to the human monies inside of that vault over there.

BANK TELLER: Yes, this is a bank, but unfortunately, we're unable to help you out in this instance. I wish there was more that I could do. Like I said, I'd recommend contacting someone with WWE to help you understand the logistics of that contract.

Danhausen snatches the briefcase off the counter and tucks it under his arm, before turning around and walking away. Before leaving, he turns to the teller and yells out.

DANHAUSEN: Consider yourself lucky that Danhausen did not curse you, peasant!

We cut back to the commentary at ringside where Michael Cole is giggling and Wade Barrett is visibly annoyed.

MICHAEL COLE: There's no one quite like Danhausen in the WWE Universe, folks! False alarm, it doesn't look like Danhausen is cashing in his Money in the Bank contract tonight after all!

WADE BARRETT: Does that idiot even know what that contract is for?

”Switchblade” by NJPW hits the P.A. system, and the crowd comes to their collective feet. The WWE Women’s Champion appears at the top of the ramp, a confident smile on her face before she starts making her way towards the ring.

MICHAEL COLE: There is the champion of the women’s division, Wade! Serena Deeb has been dominant since winning the title back at Night of Champions.

WADE BARRETT: I may not be the biggest Bullet Club Red fan, but I’ve got to appreciate what Deeb has done since coming back to WWE!

MICHAEL COLE: She’s now the longest reigning champion since the big reset earlier this year. That says a lot because she’s turned back a lot of good challengers.

WADE BARRETT: That she has. Liv Morgan, Tiffany Stratton, Lita, and a certain Money in the Bank briefcase holder.

MICHAEL COLE: Indeed so. She beat Dakota Kai earlier this year but now Kai is the holder of that contract.

WADE BARRETT: Deeb better have eyes in the back of her head going forward.

Serena steps through the ropes and is handed a microphone from the ringside crew as her music fades. She gives the crowd a warm smile before starting.

SERENA DEEB: One hundred and nineteen days. It feels like a blur.

She pauses a second before continuing.

SERENA DEEB: I still can’t believe it sometimes. When I was in WWE for my first tenure, I never would have thought this was possible. I mean, don’t get me wrong. I believed in myself and knew what I was capable of in this ring, but I wasn’t ready at that point. I wasn’t in a spot where I could be a champion. Because that’s a thing. You can hold this championship and get your name in the record books forever but it’s a whole different thing to be a champion.

Her tone is serious and a little determined. She looks directly into the hard cam as she continues.

SERENA DEEB: Being a champion is hard. It’s taking everyone’s best shot when they come at you and turning them away. It’s facing new and hungry challengers and old respected ones as well. I’ve said it before but it’s having that bullseye on your back all the time. Now, there’s a target the size of the moon on my back with the Money in the Bank briefcase coming into play. Now, there’s a real possibility that I won’t be at my best and ready for when that time comes. I’d like to think with the respect between Dakota and myself after our match that she won’t do that to me, but…

Her sentence stops, and she exhales. She looks to her left and right before pulling the mic back up and continuing.

SERENA DEEB: People are willing to go to great lengths to become the champion. That briefcase is just one more thing I have to look out for now. If Kai wants to cash in when she thinks I’m weak, she’ll be in for a surprise. I don’t plan on losing this title any time soon.

You can see her confidence grow with each word now as she stares directly into the hard cam once again.

SERENA DEEB: I’ve turned back some of the all-time WWE greats and some of the best up and coming talent in this business. I can promise you that whoever steps up and takes their shot next will be just like every other person who has taken that shot. This is a reminder to each and every woman in the back. To pin my shoulders to the mat for a three count is going to take every ounce of energy you can muster and it still likely won’t be enough. That’s a - -

Shh! It's Chelsea!

Deeb’s sentence is cut off by “Hot Mess” hitting the P.A. system. Chelsea Green appears at the top of the ramp, a microphone already in her hand. She’s not making her way down the ramp as her song fades quickly after she steps through the curtain.

MICHAEL COLE: What is this all about?

WADE BARRETT: Hush, Cole. I, for one, can’t wait to hear what she has to say.

CHELSEA GREEN: “Every ounce of energy I can muster and it still likely won’t be enough.” Those are your words, Serena Deeb.

Deeb nods in agreement to the poignant observation from Green.

CHELSEA GREEN: Yet, if you can remember just a few weeks ago, I did that very thing to you in that ring. Rather effortlessly and without any kind of challenge.

The crowd boos at the revisionist history on full display from Green.

SERENA DEEB: I’ve gotta say, I don’t remember it happening that way. In fact, I remember it going down like - -

She’s cut off by Green.

CHELSEA GREEN: No one wants to hear your made-up version of the story, Serena! They all saw the facts speak for themselves. I pinned you. And the very next week, I beat the crap out of your old friend Lita, yet she still got the title shot and I was on the sidelines. Funny how that works, huh? A lot of people are saying you’re scared to face me.

SERENA DEEB: Who is saying that?

CHELSEA GREEN: A lot of people. Like, people on Instagram and I saw it trending on X. You probably know it as Twitter because you’re so behind on the times. Do you still use Tout?

SERENA DEEB: What do you want, Chelsea? I don’t have time for these games.

CHELSEA GREEN: Oh, I think you do. You’ve got all the time in the world now that you’ve pushed back against every challenger. You’ve beaten everyone you’ve been in that ring with. Everyone…but me.

SERENA DEEB: Name your time and place. Let’s get this over with so I can show you and everyone out there that I don’t fear you or anyone.

CHELSEA GREEN: Oh, our time is coming, princess. Don’t you worry about that. But I’m not going to worry about trying to take my shot at you in a dusty town like Albuquerque, no, no.

The crowd boos at this, but Chelsea just continues on.

CHELSEA GREEN: I’m a star, honey, a bright shining star! And for a star like me, there’s only one place that’s suitable for me to finally step into the spotlight and claim my rightful place as WWE Women’s Champion - - at SummerSlam, in front of a packed SoFi Stadium in California.

Serena smirks before raising her microphone back up.

SERENA DEEB: You want me at SummerSlam? Fine, you’re on.

The crowd goes wild with Serena accepting Chelsea’s challenge, and she drops her mic and raises the WWE Women’s Championship in the air as Chelsea smirks and drops her mic, motioning around her waist to indicate that she plans to take the championship from Deeb at SummerSlam.

MICHAEL COLE: Looks like Chelsea Green is ready for the big time, challenging our WWE Women’s Champion, Serena Deeb!

WADE BARRETT: At SummerSlam no less! I’ve already got my seat, but the WWE Universe might want to get theirs on account of that match alone!

MICHAEL COLE: That’s for sure! I feel sorry for anyone that doesn’t get their ticket, much like I do for anyone that isn’t ready for this next contest! Enzo, Christian, and Christopher Daniels are about to bring the house down with this triple threat!

”30/30-150” by Stone Sour plays over the sound system of the arena as Daniels makes his way to the top of the stage and holds up his hand in his signature taunt. The crowd boos him as that overconfident grin is etched on his face.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following triple threat contest is scheduled for one fall, making his way to the ring first; Chriiistopher Daniiiels!

MICHAEL COLE: The Fallen Angel has had a rough go, but by no means has he looked unimpressive. It just seems like that right moment hasn’t come for him to pick up that victory to really get him rolling here in the WWE!

WADE BARRETT: He’s got all the tools, he’s not a bad looking guy, and you might have to wonder if it’s just his age holding him back. He’s not as quick as he used to be, and that can really mess with a guy’s confidence when he realizes it!

”SAWFT is a Sin” hits and Daniels isn’t even in the ring yet as he looks up the rampway to Enzo Amore who makes his way out with his partner Big Cass dapping him up as Enzo runs around like a hamster on speed at the top of the ramp hyping up this live crowd as he shadow boxes for either side for a moment before he begins to stride towards the ring and Big Cass makes his way to the back. Enzo’s got his own personal microphone in hand as he waits a moment for Samntha Irvin to introduce him before he speaks to the crowd.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Making his way to the ring, Enzooo Amooore!

ENZO AMORE My name is Enzo Amore, and I am a Certified G and a bonafide stud and you can’t teach that! BADA BOOM REALEST GUY IN THE ROOM! HOW YOU DOIN’! I am a smack talker’ Skywalker and I got a mic-saber for a couple of haters! I didn’t come here to play any games and I see the way that Daniels and Christian been talkin’ ‘bout me! But I’ll smack the stupid look off their faces before they know what hit ‘em! So let’s get this thing goin’ and get my victories rollin’! How you doin’!

MICHAEL COLE: Well he’s not timid, I remember that much, but I’m not sure smack talking your opponents is a way to keep yourself safe in a triple threat from your opponents!

WADE BARRETT: And it certainly puts a target on his back for this one! Interrupting Christopher Daniels entrance probably wasn’t a wise move either!

Daniels and Enzo are being held apart by the official as they talk smack to each other now. But "Take Over" begins to play as The Patriarch makes their way out to the top of the stage. Christian Cage heads down the ramp, rolling his neck around to loosen up as he talks trash to the fans in the front row along the ramp. He has a sour expression on his face as he yells down the rampway towards Enzo who is yelling back at him as he leans over the top rope.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And their final opponent, making his way to the ring; The Patriarch, Christiiian Caaage!

MICHAEL COLE: Christian really wants to get himself back on the path to gold, and it’s obvious by his non-stop determination in being booked every week on Monday Night RAW!

WADE BARRETT: You have to give the guy credit; he leads by example and he’s not afraid of competition. He’s not a young man by any means either, so it’s impressive to see him taking on new opponents each and every week. I think it’s sooner rather than later that we see him back in the mix at the top somewhere!

---

---

The bell rings as Christian Cage smirks and rolls out of the ring to boos from the crowd. He gestures for Enzo and Daniels to fight each other. Both men look at each other before rolling out of the ring on opposite sides. They look to trap Cage, but he slides back into the ring as they give chase. Enzo and Daniels are quick to react as they both take down Cage before sending him into the turnbuckle corner! Both men then take turns laying into Cage with kicks in the corner. Both men really laying into Cage with a bit of extra venom as they give him a beating, this continues until Enzo tries to roll Daniels up! 1…Daniels powers out of the attempt! Daniels looks angry but Enzo shrugs as he tells him that this match is every man for himself. Cage stays down in the corner as Daniels peppers Enzo with a series of kicks but Cage catches Daniels from behind and nails a picture-perfect inverted DDT! Cage looks to go for a cover, but Enzo attacks him with a kick to the side of the head! Cage staggers a little and Enzo sweeps his legs out from under him bringing him down to the mat. Enzo smirks and dances in a place for a moment as the crowd eats it up, climbing up the turnbuckle corner he waits for the perfect moment to strike but as he jumps off for the diving DDT he calls the DDG he’s caught and nailed with an inverted death valley driver by Daniels that sends him rolling outside of the ring! Daniels now turns his attention back to Cage as the two men face off with each other!

MICHAEL COLE: Some obvious tension here, these two haven’t been having a good time of late in their matches!

WADE BARRETT: And neither of these men want to give a win to the new guy, or allow the other man in this triple threat to pick one up either!

Once again Daniels looks to go for a kick but Cage has it scouted and dodges it before bringing Daniels down to the mat with a Russian leg sweep! Cage makes the cover, 1…and Daniels kicks out! Cage grabs hold of Daniels and looks to suplex him but gets a series of elbows that knocks him off! A couple of boos from the crowd as Daniels smashes Cage in the gut with a spin kick before planting him with a DDT! Daniels makes the cover this time, 1…and Cage kicks out this time! Daniels lays into Cage with a series of kicks and really peppers them in until Cage sweeps his legs out from under him and locks in a kneebar! Daniels however crawls his way to the ropes and outside of the ring only to get hit with a SUPERKICK TO THE JAW BY ENZO! Daniels falls to the floor outside of the ring and drags Christian through with him and a loud thud is heard as they both hit it! Both men are now laying there as Daniels holds his jaw as he’s feeling the effects of the superkick. Enzo grabs hold of Cage and sends him into the ringside barricade back first with a toss that shakes the barricade buckling it a bit. Enzo now turns his attention to Daniels as he nails a superkick to him just as he gets up to his knees, which knocks Daniels back down!

MICHAEL COLE: Daniels took that one right to the chin!

WADE BARRETT: And Enzo clearly doesn’t care if either of these men want to win this, he’s out for his first victory here in WWE!

Enzo smirks as he gets the approval of the crowd and tosses Daniels back into the ring. Climbing to the top rope as he waits for Daniels to get to his feet and comes off with a crossbody that he turns into a pin, 1…2…Daniels gets the shoulder up! Enzo tries to keep on the attack but gets clobbered from behind by Cage which knocks him down to the canvas! Cage lifts Daniel off the mat before bringing him back down with an inverted DDT! 1…2…and Enzo breaks it up! Enzo grabs hold of Christian and sends him into the turnbuckle corner with a whip that brings Cage in shoulder first! Enzo now returns to Daniels who is back to a seated position and nails a kick to the side of the head! 1…2…Daniels kicks out! Enzo looks to follow up and grabs hold of Daniels looking to go for something but Cage nails him with a dropkick that sends Enzo into the ropes, Cage rushes forward and clotheslines Enzo out of the ring again! This leaves Cage alone with Daniels again for the moment, both men seething with hatred for each other which is clear for the world to see. Daniels rushes forward but Cage catches him with a spear that takes him down to the mat and Cage begins to unload with punches to the head. Cage is angry and wants to make Daniels suffer, he gets off him only long enough to knock a semi-recovered Enzo off the apron with a knee strike that knocks him back out of the ring!

MICHAEL COLE: Enzo being manhandled by Cage there!

WADE BARRETT: That knee strike certainly looked like it hurt!

Cage goes back after Daniels, laying into him with a few more punches to the head before lifting him up and nailing a snap suplex! Cage holds on for the bridging pin, 1…2…Daniels kicks out! Cage looks to stay on top, hitting a few more punches before lifting Daniels up but Daniels connects with a falling DDT planting Cage! Daniels makes the cover, 1…Enzo off the top rope with a double foot stomp to the back of Daniels to break it up! Daniels shouts in pain as Enzo grabs hold of him and German suplexes him holding on for the bridge, 1…Cage breaks it up by diving forward with a double axe handle onto both men! Cage takes zero chances and lays into Enzo with a few strikes before looking to slam him down but Enzo fights back by peppering some jabs onto Cage’s jaw rocking him! Daniels now joins the fray and Cage and Daniels work together and nail a double suplex on Enzo! The temporary alliance doesn’t last long though as Cage and Daniels come to blows while Enzo rolls to the corner to collect himself for the moment. Daniels and Cage are throwing hard punches at one another, but Daniels looks to bring Cage down and he counters with a jawbreaker that gets Daniels into position. Christian grabs hold of the arms and flips Daniels around for the Unprettier but gets lifted up by Daniels and nailed with a vertebreaker!

MICHAEL COLE: Haven’t seen that one by Daniels before!

WADE BARRETT: Shades of Gregory Helms there, but you have to do what you can to get out of some tough situations!

Cage winces in pain as Daniels stalks his prey but gets hit with a MISSILE DROPKICK BY ENZO FROM THE TOP ROPE! A wicked move from the Certified G that sends Daniels rolling to the outside. Cage gets back to his feet as Enzo looks to capitalize and catches him with a clothesline! Enzo follows up by running off the ropes and connects with a Yakuza kick to the head! Enzo makes the cover, 1…2…Cages kicks out! Enzo looks to stay on the attack and goes to run off the ropes again but Daniels trips him up and pulls him out of the ring! Daniels lays into Enzo with a series of punches but Enzo fights back! Cage is to his feet inside the ring and runs the ropes before wiping both men out with a SUICIDE DIVE! Christian slaps his chest as he taunts the crowd who boo him relentlessly, standing tall over both men as he grabs Enzo and sends him over the barricade into the timekeeper’s area! Cage now returns to Daniels who is trying to get back to his feet and slams his head off the Spanish announce table! He slams Daniels head a few more times as the commentary team winces with every successive smack of skull and flesh against table! Cage shoves Daniels back to the floor as he tears apart the announce table taking the cover off and removing the monitors. CHAIR SHOT TO THE BACK BY ENZO AMORE! The crowd are on their feet as they cheer Enzo for the brutality of it all! He lifts the chair in the air for them as he does a little jig and smiles!

MICHAEL COLE: Enzo is clearly having fun out here, but I don’t think his opponents are going to appreciate it!

WADE BARRETT: And remember this one is a triple threat, so there’s no disqualification on the use of any weapons!

Enzo now clobbers Daniels with the chair several times as he falls down onto the table leaning over it. Enzo turns to Cage who has recovered and has a sinister smile on his face, Enzo holds up a hand to stop him but it’s too late as Cage spears him! Enzo drops the chair and falls to the floor as Cage shakes his head and smiles. Cage lays into Enzo with the chair over and over again, seemingly letting out every bit of anger at losing his Intercontinental Championship a few weeks ago on Enzo! Pulling Enzo’s prone form onto the chair after laying it on the ground and grabbing a second as he sets up for the Con-chair-to…but gets spun around by Daniels before getting nailed with a kick to the gut and Angel's Wings on the outside! Daniels inadvertently saved Enzo, but he doesn’t care as he rolls Cage back into the ring and makes the cover, 1…2…Cage kicks out at the last second! The crowd goes wild as Cage manages to keep this match alive but Daniels is not happy about it! Daniels grabs the hair of Cage and begins to lay into him brutally with punches to the face as he keeps a firm grip on his hair! Enzo now slowly makes his way into the ring still feeling the effects of those chair shots as he holds his back. Daniels picks him up and tosses him into the turnbuckle corner shoulder first to keep him out of this one as Enzo slumps in the corner afterwards!

MICHAEL COLE: Keep an eye on Enzo, Daniels may be leading this one right now but Enzo’s a tricky one!

WADE BARRETT: He’s so small, it’s hard to keep track of him. It gives him a very clear advantage in these multi-man matches! Daniels is at the top of his game in this one though, so I wouldn’t worry too much!

As Daniels goes to turn his attention back to Christian though he’s pulled down with the Edge-O-Matic! Cage holds the legs for the cover, 1…2…Daniels kicks out! Cage rolls out of the ring to try and recover some more but Daniels follows him to the outside. Cage makes a beeline around the ring and Daniels gives chase before losing sight of him around the corner and as he turns it gets nailed with a monitor from the Spanish announce table! Cage smirks as he taps the side of his head to illustrate just how smart he is to the crowd as they boo! Cage lays into Daniels with some punches before rolling him onto the announce table as he plays to the crowd for some more boos! He points to the turnbuckle before he begins the slow climb and gets to the top. A deep breath from Christian and FROG SPLASH THROUGH THE SPANISH ANNOUNCE TABLE! Christian is slow to get back up as Daniels doesn’t even look like he’s moving at all. Deadlifting Daniels off the floor he rolls him into the ring before taking a moment to breathe. Enzo, however, is fresh as a daisy as he is standing at the top of the turnbuckle right now and jumps off AIR ENZO TO CHRISTOPHER DANIELS! Enzo hooks the leg and demands the count, 1…Cage slides into the ring, 2…he rushes forward, 3! Cage drives onto Daniels as Enzo rolls out of the ring already victorious!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, ENZOOO AMOOORE!

MICHAEL COLE: Enzo Amore just stole this one, and you can’t teach that!

WADE BARRETT: Cage was seconds away from victory! If he hadn’t taken time to breathe, he would’ve had this one! Enzo’s a thief! You shouldn’t celebrate that!

”SAWFT is a Sin” by CFO$ hits as Enzo Amore can’t believe that he just stole this one! He’s grinning from ear to ear as he backs up the rampway and the crowd is going crazy for him! He dances his way up the ramp, before he slows it down and moonwalks his way for the last bit with some exaggerated arm movements to emphasize his joy and out the exit to the backstage. Christian Cage still can’t believe at as he watches Daniels getting helped away by the officials and he kicks apart the ring steps while he makes his own way backstage.

We go backstage where we find ourselves outside the Money & Mayhem locker room with Cathy Kelley.


CATHY KELLEY: Hey guys, I’m about to head into the Money & Mayhem locker room. There’s been a lot of talk about the aftermath of Money in the Bank and…

As Cathy tries to open the door it is obviously locked. She stops herself mid-sentence and gives a knock on the door and then another. After a few moments, the door cracks open and Eric Bischoff’s head pops out.

ERIC BISCHOFF: What do you want, Cathy?

CATHY KELLEY: Well I wanted to talk to the members of Money & Mayhem because it seems like a lot has happened and I wanted to see where everyone stood after Money in the Bank.

Bischoff squeezes himself through the door and pushes Cathy back a few steps. He closes the door behind him and stands almost like a guard.

ERIC BISCHOFF: Listen, Money in the Bank was a big night for us. And while it didn’t end up exactly how we would’ve liked it to, I don’t think they need to be bothered with the likes of you tonight. So, how about you ask whatever crack journalist questions you have to me.

The sarcasm in Bischoff’s voice is obviously noticed by Cathy who scowls at him, before going back into her persona.

CATHY KELLEY: Let’s start with the Guerrillas of Destiny. There’s been a lot of back and forth with the Motor City Machine Guns.

ERIC BISCHOFF: I wouldn’t call it a lot of back and forth. I’d say that the Guerrillas put the Machine Guns in their place almost a month ago. And now, the Machine Guns think that they are going to get some kind of revenge. But the fact of the matter is, post-Money in the Bank I’ve got all the members of Money & Mayhem focused on one thing…gold. And while the Machine Guns may think they are some great thorn in the side of the Guerillas, the fact is they are an afterthought. We have moved on from them and are looking to the Tag Team Championship landscape.

CATHY KELLEY: So, you’re saying that the Motor City Machine Guns don’t concern you at all?

Bischoff gives his normal toothy smile.

ERIC BISCHOFF: Do I look like a man that gets concerned easily? I’m not, and especially when it comes to a couple of flies buzzing around that can be easily swatted. Machine Guns have big mouths and they run them real well, I’ll give them that much. But, I have yet to see them back up those long running mouths.

Cathy seems to be satisfied with that as she switches gears.

CATHY KELLEY: Then let’s talk about Carmella, who failed to bring home her second Women’s Money in The Bank brief case. What's next for the Staten Island Princess?

ERIC BISCHOFF: The Money of Money & Mayhem is taking her time. In case you didn’t notice, it took a whole of those women teaming up to stop Carmella from getting that briefcase. A lot of scared women. But now there’s only two women who should be scared: Kairi and Serena Deeb. Because it’s only a matter of time before Carmella goes to moonwalk into that ring and takes what she wants from them.

CATHY KELLEY: Does she have a preference in which championship?

ERIC BISCHOFF: Do you walk into an NFL locker room and ask the coach to show you the first fifteen plays he’s running in the next game? Why do you think I’m going to walk you through our plans? You’ll just have to wait and see what’s next for the most dominant woman in the WWE.

Cathy nods and then adjusts her stance a little bit.

CATHY KELLEY: And Corey Graves? Is that another wait and see? He was the favorite walking into Money in the Bank, and to not only walk out losing the match…but he was knocked out mid-match…

Bischoff grabs the microphone; you can see she has hit a nerve.

ERIC BISCHOFF: You come at me like that, and you think for a second I would’ve let you into this locker room to talk to my people? Let’s be very honest here, Cathy, Money in the Bank is a crapshoot of a match. Just because you win it, doesn’t mean you were the most deserving. And honestly, I think it’s fitting some idiot clown won. Because now we can get back to real business. The real business is that Corey Graves has been undefeated since coming back from a ten-year hiatus. In fact, all of Money & Mayhem are undefeated…because these stupid little ladder matches don’t matter. And from what I saw at Money in the Bank, we were scraping the bottom of the barrel to get a number one contender for the WWE Championship with Bron Breakker.

Cathy tries to regain control of the microphone, but Bischoff doesn’t allow it.

ERIC BISCHOFF: Hey Kev…or I guess Diesel. Three messages I dropped on your phone this week. I’ve never had a problem getting a hold of you in the last thirty years, but it seems that the WWE Championship has maybe given you a new yellow tan across your back. Because magically when the words “Corey Graves number one contender” are mentioned….you don’t seem to be able to remember how to get back to anyone. Mark my words, Corey Graves is coming for the WWE Championship and Kev, we tried to come to you about this like men. I tried to treat you with respect, but it looks like you want to do this the hard way. It looks like you want to prove all those people right about what a selfish, egomaniac you are. Just remember Kev…you wanted it this way.

Bischoff hands the microphone back to Cathy.

ERIC BISCHOFF: I think that’s all you’ve earned.

He gives her a “shoo” hand gesture and then slides back into the locker room. Leaving Cathy outside and not looking happy.

The cameras now go to a different area backstage to show Byron Saxton standing with a microphone in hand.



BYRON SAXTON: Ladies and gentlemen… the Motor City Machine Guns.

The crowd cheer wildly as both Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley take a step forward.

BYRON SAXTON: First of all, of course we’ve got to address the incredible performance by you, Alex, in the men’s Money in the Bank match. While you didn’t come out on top, are you proud of how it went?

ALEX SHELLEY: Absolutely. I mean, at the end of the day, I was the MVP of that match. I was the one who did everything other than the main part of the match… winning. Talk about falling at the final hurdle, right? But I’m not going to dwell on it. I know I impressed and practically stole the show all by myself. I don’t have anything to be ashamed of.

CHRIS SABIN: This guy proved a lot of people wrong with that performance. There were all sorts of people claiming that he can’t do the same things he used to. Dude, he exceeded anything he ever did fifteen, twenty years ago. We truly are getting better with age.

ALEX SHELLEY: Oh, no question. I don’t think anybody can dispute that I earned my place there and that we still both have bright futures ahead of us.

Byron nods.

BYRON SAXTON: Well you do still have your enemies, of course, in the Guerrillas of Destiny. Due to your recent focus on Money in the Bank, that appears to have been put on the back burner somewhat.

ALEX SHELLEY: Sure, sure. Because you know why? Our whole world doesn’t revolve around them.

CHRIS SABIN: As much as they’d love it to. Look, we’ll circle back to that eventually because it’s clear that there’s unfinished business. We want them to know that we haven’t forgotten about them.

Alex nods in agreement.

ALEX SHELLEY: We’ll deal with that all in good time, Byron.

BYRON SAXTON: So with that said, where do the Motor City Machine Guns go from here?

ALEX SHELLEY: Look, I just put myself back in an incredible position. I’m not saying I’m dragging Chris along for the ride but - -

CHRIS SABIN: No, it’s fine, you can say that.

ALEX SHELLEY: But all we’ll say is that we’re going to use this momentum to just get back on track, y’know? No matter what comes our way, we’ll be as ready for it as ever. I feel like this really is a turning point for the Motor City Machine Guns.

CHRIS SABIN: I know it is. This is the sort of thing we’ve been waiting for. A chance to really say that we’re here and we mean business. And we heard what Eric Bischoff just said and despite how he’s trying to play it off, we do hope the Guerrillas of Destiny have been watching because with this unfinished business, we hope they can see what they’re letting themselves in for when our paths inevitably cross again.

Alex and Chris turn to nod at one another as Byron wraps things up.

BYRON SAXTON: Well, thank you fellas, and good luck!

ALEX SHELLEY: No, thank you.

CHRIS SABIN: And good luck to you. Y’know, just in life.

With those final words, Chris pats Byron on the shoulder before the two wander off of the scene as the cameras go back to ringside.

MICHAEL COLE: Well, the Machine Guns look ready to take the next step towards the Tag Team Championship! But right now, we are ready for our main event.

WADE BARRETT: Two men who were in the Money in the Bank ladder match just one week ago are back at it again here tonight.

MICHAEL COLE: We saw earlier in the night that Austin Theory was a little surprised by that but Stephanie McMahon states that he requested the match. Shenanigans are afoot, Wade.

WADE BARRETT: Don’t ever say that sentence again, Cole.

”Remember the Name” by def rebel hits the P.A. system and there’s actually a few cheers as he appears through the curtain. Theory has had a small attitude adjustment over the last few weeks and the fans are starting to notice. He starts making his way down to the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Making his way to the ring, The A-Hole from A-Town, Aussstiiin Theeeorrryyy!

MICHAEL COLE: Theory knows what this match could potentially mean. A win over Jay White would be huge for him.

WADE BARRETT: I saw this man have another man powerbombed on top of him and through a table last week, Cole. There’s no way he’s a hundred percent right now.

”Switchblade” by NJPW hits the speakers and the crowd cheers wildly. Jay White appears through the curtain, a smug grin on his face as he throws an arm up in the air. He starts making his way down the ramp and towards the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent, making his way to the ring, Switchblade, Jaaayyy Whiiite!

MICHAEL COLE: Jay White just came up short last week in the ladder match but much like Theory, a chance to bounce back quickly and in a big way here tonight.

WADE BARRETT: Cole, I saw Solo Sikoa decimate this man just one week ago in that ladder match. There’s no way he is one hundred percent here tonight either!

MICHAEL COLE: Well, then it should be a pretty even matchup between these two, no?

White and Theory are in the ring now and give one another a nod of respect. They’re both stretching and getting ready for this one on one bout.

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As has been previously mentioned by commentators and the participants themselves, both of these men were in the Money in the Bank ladder match last week. A quick turnaround for two men who took some pretty big hits in that match. However, these are two competitors who are hovering right around the main event scene. There’s a good chance that the powers that be are keeping their eyes on this match. A win for either man in this match is a big win. Theory has ventured out on his own after tying himself to the Young Bucks upon his arrival. Nick and Matt have disappeared after their loss of the tag team titles and Theory has done well on his own. Jay White has been the de facto leader of Bullet Club Red, but it could be argued that Serena Deeb has been much more successful in her division than Jay has been. White has always been on the cusp of taking the next leap in his career but fallen short - including last week. Again, this is a great opportunity for both of these men to make a statement in this main event match. The referee checks both men and clears them both. The ref calls for the bell and this match is officially underway.

MICHAEL COLE: Week in and week out it feels like Monday Night RAW has these huge main events, Wade.

WADE BARRETT: We have been blessed with some great matchups and this is no different.

MICHAEL COLE: Really interested to see who comes out on top in this one.

The two circle one another and then come to a lock up. Theory has a size and weight advantage and uses that to immediately push Jay back into the corner. The lock up is held tight as Jay spins and presses Austin against the ropes. This is reversed again heading towards the other corner with Theory pressing White into the corner again. Finally, a release is called for and both men let go. Theory backs up towards the middle of the ring as Jay tries to measure him up before they lock up again. Austin wraps his arm around Jay’s head this time with a headlock. He wrenches it in as Jay tries to slip out. Austin keeps it locked in though until Jay is finally able to shove Theory off of him towards the ropes. Theory bounces off the ropes and he’s immediately met with a dropkick to the face, taking him down! Jay is back up to his feet quickly, grabbing Austin by the hair and pulling him up. White whips Austin to the ropes and comes running in after him, looking for a clothesline. As soon as Theory hits the turnbuckle, he sees it coming and ducks, forcing White to crash into the corner. Austin goes to work with a series of rights to White’s face, staggering him a bit. Theory whips Jay to the opposite corner and goes for a clothesline of his own, but this time it’s Jay that sees it coming and moves out of the way! Theory smashes himself into the corner, face first into the turnbuckle and grabs at his face. Theory stumbles out towards the middle of the ring and as he turns back towards White, Jay is running at him and drilling him with a sling blade, taking him down to the mat!

WADE BARRETT: Crazy pace between these two to start. Thought we’d see a bit of a slower match here early on.

MICHAEL COLE: Both of these men know what having an advantage early on can do. You can set the tone.

Jay tries to stay on the attack, bending down to grab Theory but Austin grabs Jay around the head and rolls him up in a small package! 1…2…No! Jay gets out! Both men are back up to their feet quickly now and lock up once again. The collar and elbow fight between the two results in Theory whipping Jay into the ropes. White bounces off and is met with an immediate shoulder black from Austin, taking him down. Theory bounces off the ropes, but Jay is back up to his feet and startles Theory who wasn’t expecting him to be up to his feet. Jay whips Theory over with a hip toss. Austin gets back up to his feet quickly, but Jay is ready for him, whipping him into the corner once again. Theory reverses it this time though and Jay is rushing towards the corner. Jay stops before getting there though and runs up the corner to the top rope. Austin stops short, surprised by this as Jay takes flight! Austin ducks the move though and White grabs him as he flies over him rolling him up with a sunset flip off the top rope into a pinning predicament! 1…2…NO! Theory gets his shoulder up! What a pace from these men here early on! Both men are back up to their feet once again and stop, staring each other down. The crowd cheers loudly as the two men show a sign of respect to one another with this.

MICHAEL COLE: Neither man can get a leg up on the other here. Great back and forth.

WADE BARRETT: May just take one mistake from these guys to change the course of this match.

They lock up once again and Theory uses his size to press Jay back against the ropes. Before being asked for a break, Austin steps back and thrusts forward quickly, drilling Jay White with a clothesline and taking him over the top rope and landing on the apron. Theory goes and stands next to the corner, waiting for White to get back to his feet. Jay pulls himself up and Theory goes rushing towards him, looking for a clothesline but Jay ducks under it. Before Austin can turn around, Jay whips a kick between the ropes, drilling Austin in the midsection. Jay runs towards the corner on the apron and dashes up to the top rope, taking off and drilling Austin with a flying shoulder tackle and both men crashing to the mat. Jay is in control now, pulling Austin up to his feet, wrapping his arm around Austin’s head, lifting him up and dropping him down with a brainbuster suplex! A good show of strength there from White! Jay goes for a pin! 1…2…No! Theory is holding his head now, a little groggy after that brainbuster. Jay is back up to his feet again and goes up to the top rope, waiting for Theory to rise up to his feet. Austin notices Jay on the top rope before Jay can realize it though and Theory goes rushing towards him and up the corner, standing on the top rope with Jay! What speed from Theory! Austin wraps his arm around Jay and pulls him back hitting Jay with a SPANISH FLY OFF THE TOP ROPE! Both men are hurt by this, but Theory pulls himself together and goes for the pin. 1…2….3! No! Somehow Jay White gets his foot up on the bottom rope! Theory can’t believe it!

MICHAEL COLE: An unbelievable move from Theory! Both of these men are extremely athletic!

WADE BARRETT: I’ve never seen anything like that! Theory is a specimen, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: Jay White is no slouch on his own. These two men are going at it here!

WADE BARRETT: Putting it all on the line here. You love to see it.

Austin wants to stay on the attack, grabbing Jay White and pulling him back up to his feet. You can see White is a bit out of it by the look on his face. Theory kicks Jay in the midsection, doubling him over and pulls Jay towards him. He’s looking for a powerbomb and hoists him up but Jay punches Theory in the head a few times while up on his shoulders. Jay falls back and brings Theory with him, hitting him with a hurricanrana. Jay stands back up and bounces off the ropes, hitting Theory with another sling blade when he gets to his feet! Theory bounces back up quickly and is hit with another sling blade! Austin rises up again and is hit with one more sling blade! Three in a row from White and Theory is officially down now. Jay has his arm draped over the top rope, using it to keep himself up on his feet. Jay walks over to Theory and pulls him up to his feet, looking to lock it in and hit him with a Blade Runner. As he has his arm around Theory’s head, Austin lifts his knee up and hits Jay in the side. White tries to keep the hold locked in but Theory hits another knee into White’s midsection. This makes Jay break his hold now and Theory turns around, facing Jay. Austin swings wildly towards Jay but White ducks under it and grabs Austin from behind as he spins around from his momentum. Jay hoists him up, spins him and drops him with a BLUE THUNDER BOMB into a pinning predicament! 1…2….No! Austin kicks out!

WADE BARRETT: Taking a page out of Serena Deeb’s playbook with that move!

MICHAEL COLE: We went from speed to impact in this match real quick.

WADE BARRETT: I am shocked that these men are bringing it to this level after last week.

Theory is using the ropes to pull himself up to his feet as Jay scrambles back up to a vertical base as well. Austin is up and Jay rushes towards him. Theory ducks and hoists Jay up and over the top rope, but White lands on his feet on the apron. Theory tries to turn but Jay hoists himself up onto the top rope, using it as a springboard and jumps towards Austin but Theory ducks and Jay drills the referee with a clothesline, taking him down! The referee is knocked out as Jay stands up to his feet, realizing what has happened. Austin hasn’t realized it yet as he uses the ropes to pull himself up again. Jay turns his attention away from the downed ref and back to Austin but is immediately met with a kick to the midsection, doubling Jay over. Austin takes a page out of the most famous Austin in history and hits Jay White with a STUNNER! Jay falls back, grabbing at his face and chin. Theory crawls over and goes for a pin but the referee is knocked out. Rick Knox comes rushing down the ramp and slides into the ring! 1…2…3! NO! NO! Jay White got a shoulder up! He kicked out! Theory looks over at Knox with wide eyes and grabs at his hair. Knox can’t believe it either and shakes his head, holding up two fingers.

MICHAEL COLE: Rick Knox came rushing down here after the first referee got knocked out, but Theory still couldn’t put Jay away!

WADE BARRETT: Neither Knox or Theory can believe it! Hell, I can’t believe it!

Knox tells Theory to stay on the attack. Theory pulls Jay up to his feet and looks for the ATL fireman’s carry cutter, looking to drive Jay’s face into his knee. As he swings him around, White blocks it and lands on his feet. He brings his foot up and kicks Theory right in the face. Theory is staggered back towards the ropes. Jay rushes towards him, drilling Austin with a clothesline, taking him up and over the top rope and crashing to the floor. Knox walks towards the ropes and starts making a ten count. Jay White backs up towards the opposite ropes, looking to hit a dive or plancha onto Theory, but before he can take off, his foot is grabbed from outside the ring. Jay turns and two men are standing outside the ring. Knox is still giving a slow count on Theory being counted out. Jay struggles to free himself but is pulled out of the ring. The two men who grabbed Jay’s feet start battering him with punches now. They both take a step back and rush towards Jay, hitting him with a DOUBLE SUPERKICK to the face! Jay is down. Both men roll into the ring and pull the hoods off their jackets to reveal it’s Nick and Matt Jackson!

WADE BARRETT: The Young Bucks are here!

MICHAEL COLE: This is ridiculous, Wade! We were seeing an amazing match and now these two are going to ruin it and give Theory the win. Despicable!

WADE BARRETT: Felt like Theory had turned a corner and moved away from the Bucks but it was all a ruse.

MICHAEL COLE: A leopard never changes its spots it would seem.

Nick and Matt are in the ring, but Knox is still making the count on Theory. He’s up to four as Austin is back up to his feet and rolls into the ring. Knox turns and is surprised to see Nick and Matt in the ring. Austin is surprised as well and turns his attention quickly to the downed Jay White outside the ring before turning back to Nick and Matt. The Young Bucks stare at Theory and put their hands up with the “Too Sweet” finger motion, wanting Theory to join them. Austin nods his head as Rick Knox watches this all unfold. Theory steps towards the Bucks, bringing his hand up for the “Too Sweet” with them when Nick kicks Theory in the stomach, doubling him over. Rick Knox can’t believe it, his eyes shoot open wide but it’s too late, Knox takes a SUPERKICK right to his face, knocking him down and out of the ring! The crowd is in shock as Theory is doubled over and grabbed by Nick and Matt, they position themselves on both sides of the downed Theory and rush towards him, driving their knees into his face for an EVP TRIGGER onto Austin Theory! He slumps down to the mat in a heap.

MICHAEL COLE: WHAT THE HELL JUST HAPPENED!? THE YOUNG BUCKS HAVE TURNED ON AUSTIN THEORY!

WADE BARRETT: They knocked out Rick Knox as well! Everyone down here is out, Cole!

The Bucks stand alone in the ring and look at one another, sharing an almost sinister smile before they step through the ropes and out of the ring again. Nick mounts Jay White and starts beating him with right fists to his face repeatedly. Matt picks up the initial referee and whips him into the ringside barricade, flipping the ref up and over it and into the crowd. Matt turns his attention to Rick Knox, who is still knocked out and does the same to him, hoisting him up over his head and throwing him over the barricade into the crowd. Nick Jackson has busted open Jay White’s head with the repeated punches and Jay seems to be completely out of it. A referee starts running down the ramp to get control of this mess, but Nick hops up and SUPERKICKS that referee before doing the same to the next referee who tries to run down to the ring. Matt has made his way over to the ringside area now and is yelling at the timekeeper and Samantha Irvin to ring the damn bell and call the match.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The result of this match, is a doub - -

Matt Jackson knocks the microphone out of her hand and tells her to shut up. Irvin has a scared look on her face and gets out the ringside area as Matt Jackson grabs the ring bell and throws it up and into the ring, landing near Austin Theory. On the other side of the ring, Nick Jackson is fending off a slew of referees that are trying to make it to the ring. He’s already taken down five or six referees at this point.

MICHAEL COLE: This is one of the most disgusting acts I’ve ever seen, Wade. Absolutely pitiful behavior from two man-children in the Young Bucks.

WADE BARRETT: You better watch what you say, Cole. You’re within earshot!

MICHAEL COLE: I don’t give a damn if these two hear what I have to say abo - - HEY!

Cole can’t react quick enough as Matt Jackson grabs him by his collar and yanks him up out of his chair. Cole’s headset falls helplessly off his head as Matt jerks him over the commentary table and Cole lands at his feet. Barrett is up and takes off his headset now as well. Wade has half a thought to try and intervene as Matt Jackson pulls up the ringside skirt and pulls a steel chair out from underneath it. Matt holds it and turns towards Wade, who backs up slowly, holding his hands up. Matt nods his head in approval of Wade backing up and Barrett moves in front of Samantha Irvin, to stop Matt from potentially getting to her. Michael Cole is still trying to get up to his feet, using the apron to pull himself up as Matt is holding a steel chair next to him. Cole turns to see Matt holding the chair and puts his hands up defensively, begging Matt to not hit him. That’s when a SUPERKICK from out of nowhere is driven into Michael Cole’s face, knocking him out cold. Nick Jackson came in from the side and Cole never saw it coming. Wade takes a step towards Nick and Matt but Matt holds up the steel chair like he’s going to swing it at Barrett. Wade has to stop. He’s yelling loudly at the Bucks for what they just did.

Nick and Matt roll back into the ring, Matt still holding onto a steel chair and Nick picking up the ring bell that was thrown in earlier. What’s left of the referees that were trying to get to ringside start to tend to the initial referee, Rick Knox, Jay White and Michael Cole while a downed Austin Theory is still in the ring with Nick and Matt Jackson. Anyone who gets close to getting in the ring is run off by Nick or Matt with their weapon. Theory starts to move in the middle of the ring and Matt motions towards him, telling Nick of his intention. Now it’s Nick’s job to hold off anyone trying to get in the ring as Matt pulls Austin up to his feet, setting the steel chair on the mat. He flips Austin over and delivers a PILEDRIVER INTO THE STEEL CHAIR on Austin Theory, busting his head open and blood creeping onto the mat. Matt stands up as the crowd is absolutely raining boos down on them. Matt Jackson walks over to the cameraman standing on the apron and starts screaming at him. The words can’t be made out as the crowd is that loud and there’s plenty of people yelling. Matt grabs the camera from the cameraman, knocking him off the apron. He points the camera at himself and does the “too sweet” motion with his fingers He says one thing into the camera before pulling the cables out of the back of it.

MATT JACKSON: This is only the beginning. This is your warning, WWE.