Monday Night RAW 8-12-2024

As we come back from commercial break, the camera cuts to the backstage area where a familiar figure, wearing a cowboy hat, strolls confidently down the hallway. It’s Mickie James, who hasn’t been seen on RAW since 2020. The crowd can be heard cheering from the arena, excited for her return.

MICHAEL COLE: There she is, Wade! Mickie James is back on Monday Night RAW!

WADE BARRETT: The veteran’s back, Cole. And from the look of things, she’s ready to get Hardcore Country!

As Mickie continues down the hall, she spots Fallon Henley, who’s chatting with a crew member. Fallon notices Mickie approaching, her eyes lighting up in recognition. With a big smile, Fallon steps forward and raises her hand for a high five. Mickie returns the gesture, the two women’s hands slapping together in a show of mutual respect. As Mickie continues her walk, her face shows a hint of amusement, the high five putting a smile on her face. The camera follows her until she slows down, noticing Io Shirai and KAIRI walking together, their expressions serious as they discuss something quietly. The two are clearly preoccupied, almost missing Mickie until she steps closer, stopping near them. Mickie almost bows her hat, her voice calm but tinged with concern as she addresses the women.

MICKIE JAMES: Hey girls. I heard about what happened to Kyona and saw first-hand what happened to my friend, Lita. These attacks… they’re out of line. Whoever’s behind them, they’re a coward.

KAIRI: You’re right, Mickie. This is the kind of garbage that I won’t allow to keep happening. If whoever’s doing this thinks they can get to us by taking out our friends, they’re dead wrong. When I find who did that to Kyona, I’m going to kill them.

After she speaks her piece, KAIRI and Io exchange a glance, clearly intrigued by Mickie’s interest. Mickie steps a little closer, her tone more serious now.

MICKIE JAMES: Listen, I know you guys don’t know who to trust around here, but when it comes this… this is different. We have power in numbers, and if you’re hunting for Kyona’s attacker, then I’m with you. Whether it’s Jamie, or not. This business is about respect, and these attacks are anything but. Don’t worry. I’ve got your back.

KAIRI nods slowly, appreciating Mickie’s words, while Io’s eyes narrow slightly, still cautious but not dismissive. The tension in the air is thick as the three women stand together, united by a common cause. Mickie gives them a confident smile, her eyes full of determination. Io and KAIRI share a final look before nodding at Mickie. The trio stands together for a moment, a silent agreement forming between them. Mickie then gives them a parting smile before she turns and walks off, the camera lingering on her retreating form as Io and KAIRI continue their search.

MICHAEL COLE: Mickie James is back, and she means business!

WADE BARRETT: Whoever attacked Kyona and Lita better watch their back! KAIRI and Io can be scary, but Mickie James is not someone you want to mess with.

”Take Over” by Dale Oliver hits the speakers for the second time tonight and the crowd erupts into boos as Christian Cage walks out to the top of the ramp, Nick Wayne and Killswitch close behind him. Looking out at the crowd with a smirk, Christian opens his jacket and pulls out a microphone and as his music fades, he raises the microphone to his mouth and begins to speak.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: CM Punk, I know that you are popular with the common man, yet I don’t understand why these people like you so much. I don’t understand why people make signs for you, cheer your name and just boo me, when I have more in common with them than you do. You are nothing like them, CM Punk, you have no idea what it is like to be like them. Your lifestyle is completely different from theirs. You are straight edge; you have nothing in common with them. You don’t drink, you don’t smoke, you don’t take any drugs, you don’t live, CM Punk. Your life is boring and dull and yet you still hold your nose up at everyone else thinking that just because you don’t indulge yourself it makes you better than me and everyone else. I will tell you this CM Punk, you are not better than me. I spit on not only your lifestyle, but I spit on you as a man you are pathetic in my eyes. You and that idiot you have at your side, running around with titles you don’t even deserve!

Christian Cage looks around himself proudly as the fans boo him. Nick Wayne moves to his side and shakes his head in disappointment at the response Christian Cage gets, but he shakes it off and continues speaking into the microphone.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: Many of these idiots here have forgotten that there was a time that you used to insult the people. That you marched out time and time again and mocked them for drinking, smoking, and basically living the life they wanted and now look at what has happened, you have the people eating out of your hands. You have the gift of manipulation, but you will find I am not as easily swayed as all of these idiots here. Stevie is the same, everyone has forgotten what a loser he has been and now, all he is, is your little bitch.

The fans in the arena hurl more boos at Christian Cage as he just glances over at them from the main stage and continues to speak into the microphone.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: These fans here tonight may not like that you are a straight edge superstar, but it seems that these people buy into the notion that you are the “Best in The World”, that’s why they follow you because they all believe in that lie. If you are the “Best in The World”, then what does that make me? We all know I am better than you. We all know I am far more talented than you. They should be calling me the “Best in The World”, because that’s exactly what I am. People only believe you are the best because that’s what you scream into the microphone every single week. For years now you have repeated that line every chance you have gotten and now you have programmed these idiots to believe that lie. You are not the “Best in The World”, you don’t even come close to that. You have won championships and beaten major superstars, but all of that means nothing as you have yet to defeat me. You forget that I have done what you and many others could not, I defeated the best WWE has to offer, I pinned those idiots for the one, two, three right in the middle of that ring and banished them. I did something you and hundreds of others wish they could have done. I am better than the “Best in The World” and you know it, CM Punk!

Christian Cage then chuckles, as his sons come to stand at his side.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: My goal is to see you suffer and be removed from this company. It has always eaten at me that the public has never accepted me, even though I do what is right for them. It has always bothered me that no matter what you do or what you say, the people still follow you. In their eyes, CM Punk can do no wrong. It seems that your propaganda has worked, you have the people, you have their hearts, but you don’t have me, and you never will have me. I will never believe any of your lies. After this Sunday, you will see that I am better than you. That you are not the “Best in The World”. You will pack your bags and bow out of this business, because you will have learned the hard way that you were not good enough to back up your word against me in the ring. So SummerSlam, us against you, to see who the true best in the world is, we accept!

Christian Cage then throws the microphone onto the ground as he then raises his hands upwards. His sons come to his side, patting his back and supporting him as the crowd showers the trio with boos.

MICHAEL COLE: It looks like it’s official, Wade, The Patriarchy’s Nick Wayne and Killswitch will go up against CM Punk and Stevie Richards for the WWE Tag Team Championship!

WADE BARRETT: And if there’s any kind of God out there, we’re going to see new Tag Team Champions crowned!

MICHAEL COLE: They’ve certainly got a large task in front of them to make that happen, partner! Ladies and gentlemen, we are just days away from the biggest event of the summer, SummerSlam! But before we get there, the action is heating up on Heatwave, some of the wildest competition we’ve seen this summer! Wade, it’s been an explosive few weeks, and things are really starting to boil over as we head into the final showdown.

WADE BARRETT: You’re absolutely right, Cole. What a ride it’s been! From the very start, this competition has been full of surprises, betrayals, and some incredible performances from these women, all vying for that coveted Heatwave crown. Dawn Marie, our host, has been stirring the pot like only she can, and with Velvet Sky and now even Lita getting involved, things have hit a fever pitch!

MICHAEL COLE: And speaking of Lita, what a shocker last night when she was brutally attacked right after being announced as a co-host by none other than Stephanie McMahon! The drama surrounding Heatwave has reached a new level, and everyone wants to know: who is behind these attacks?

A quick recap of the past few weeks’ events is shown on the screen, highlighting key moments like Renee Michelle and Raychell Rose's elimination after their failed ambush on Maki Itoh, Sonny Kiss’s shocking exit, and on the same week, Dani Jordyn's unfortunate loss to Maki that led to her elimination.

WADE BARRETT: Maki Itoh has been the wild card in all of this. She crashes the party every week, steals the show, takes on Dani Jordyn in a surprise singles match, and then forces herself into the competition officially by Week 3 after Dawn’s invitation. And what does she get for her efforts? An ambush from Dawn Marie and her crew! But Maki didn’t back down, no, she stood tall, and that resilience has brought her to the final two.

MICHAEL COLE:You’ve got to give credit where it’s due, Wade. Maki Itoh has become a fan favorite in this competition, and rightfully so. But let’s not forget about Scarlett Bordeaux, who’s proven herself to be just as dangerous. Last week’s episode was supposed to be a celebration for Scarlett, but Mickie James made a shocking appearance and had other plans, announcing that the Heatwave competition wasn’t over yet.

WADE BARRETT: Mickie James is someone who’s seen it all in this business, and she’s not letting anything slide. Her announcement of that last-chance battle royal threw everyone for a loop, and it gave the eliminated competitors one final shot at redemption. We saw chaos, we saw alliances tested, and in the end, it was Maki Itoh who outlasted them all, setting up the ultimate showdown with Scarlett.

The screen transitions to highlights from the last-chance battle royal: Velvet Sky attempting to save Renee Michelle, Scarlett accidentally spearing Sonny Kiss, and the intense final moments between Maki and Dawn’s posse.



MICHAEL COLE: It’s now down to Maki Itoh and Scarlett Bordeaux. These two women have fought tooth and nail to get here, and now it’s up to the WWE Universe to decide who will be crowned the Heatwave 2024 winner. Voting is open right now on WWE.com/Heatwave, and the winner will be revealed during SummerSlam on Sunday!

WADE BARRETT: You can’t script this kind of drama, Cole. Whoever walks out as the Heatwave champion is going to have a rocket strapped to their back, and you can bet their career is going to skyrocket. Maki Itoh or Scarlett Bordeaux, who will it be?

MICHAEL COLE: We’ll find out in just a few days, Wade! And speaking of hot, this next match is going to be scorching! Shotzi Blackheart is going one-on-one with Isla Dawn!

WADE BARRETT: Shotzi has been going at it with the Unholy Union for weeks now, Cole, I have no doubt that this is going to be an extremely brutal affair!

”The Depths” by def rebel begins to play on the speakers and the crowd erupts into boos as Isla Dawn makes her way out to the top of the ramp. Looking out at the crowd with a maniacal smile, Isla lets out a cackle as she makes her way down the ramp, laughing the fans as they boo her. As she reaches the bottom of the ramp, she walks around to the side of the ring as she sneers at the fans in the front row.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, making her way to the ring, The White Witch, IIIslaaa Daaawwwn!

MICHAEL COLE: Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre have had issues with Shotzi Blackheart this entire summer and tonight, Isla is looking to settle the score!

WADE BARRETT: It all started when Shotzi debuted in the new era of WWE and ended Alba Fyre’s undefeated streak. Since then, the Unholy Union has gone out of their way to make Shotzi’s life miserable!

MICHAEL COLE: They certainly have, but the playing field has become more level recently with the arrival of Saraya, as she’s been providing Shotzi with some backup. However last week, the Unholy Union once again got the best of these ladies with a sneak attack backstage followed by a nasty shot of red mist from Isla Dawn! This one could get very, very physical!

Hopping up onto the apron, Isla enters the ring and goes to the center, striking a pose as she lets out another wicked cackle. Removing her cape, she drops it over the top rope to the ringside attendant and then turns her attention back to the entrance area, swinging her arms back and forth to warm up as her music begins to fade. Suddenly, “Ball Pit” by def rebel begins to play and the crowd now erupts into cheers as Shotzi Blackheart rides her tank out to the top of the ramp. Looking out at the cheering crowd with a big, excited smile, Shotzi turns her attention to Isla Dawn waiting for her in the ring and her face becomes serious as she suddenly shoots out the torpedo from her tank’s cannon, sending it flying into the ring where it narrowly misses Isla as it skids across the canvas. Isla glares up at Shotzi who just smirks as she begins driving her tank down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And her opponent, making her way to the ring, The Ballsy Badass, Shoootziii Blaaackhearrrt!

MICHAEL COLE: Shotzi Blackheart looks like she means business tonight!

WADE BARRETT: Well it’s like you said, Cole, she’s been battling with the Unholy Union all summer, and she has to be ready to put this to an end once and for all!

As she parks her tank at the bottom of the ramp, Shotzi climbs up out of it, takes off her helmet and jacket, places them both inside the tank and turns and heads over to the steel steps. As she walks up to the apron, Shotzi pauses for a moment and throws her head back as she lets out a wolf-like howl before entering the ring. Walking over to the corner, Shotzi climbs up onto the second turnbuckle and raises her arms into the air as the crowd continues to cheer her, before she hops down and turns to face Isla Dawn with an intense gaze. As her music fades out, Shotzi nods at Alba as the intense gaze starts to fade and a smile forms on her face.

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The bell rings and Shotzi wastes no time, running towards Isla Dawn and taking her down with a spear! The crowd is going wild as The Ballsy Badass mounts The White Witch, nailing her with right hand shots to the face! After about six strikes to the face of Dawn, Shotzi gets to her feet and lets out a scream as the audience roars in approval. Turning her attention back to Isla, Shotzi bends down and grabs Isla by the hair and brings her to her feet and goes to Irish whip her into the ropes however, Isla counters and whips Shotzi into the ropes instead. However, when Shotzi comes back, she uses her momentum to flip around and nail Isla with a headscissors takeover! Shotzi is back on her feet and she sees Isla stumbling to her feet as well, so she runs forward and jumps up, nailing Isla with a step-up enzuigiri that sends The White Witch down to the mat!

MICHAEL COLE: Shotzi Blackheart has come out of the gate with a relentless assault on Isla Dawn!

WADE BARRETT: What we’re seeing here is weeks of pent up frustration finally being released, Cole!

The crowd is going wild for Shotzi as she smirks at the downed Isla, and she goes for the cover and hooks the leg, 1…2…kick out by Isla Dawn! Shotzi grits her teeth as she grabs Isla by the hair once again and gets to her feet, roughly pulling Isla up with her. Breathing heavily, Shotzi looks Isla in the eyes and lets out another scream but before she can do anything, Isla delivers a shot to the midsection, catching The Ballsy Badass by surprise! Shotzi lets go of Isla as she staggers back from the shot, and Isla uses this moment to nail Shotzi with a roundhouse kick! The crowd boos as Shotzi falls to the mat and Isla cackles gleefully, clapping her hands in excitement before she drops down and goes for the cover, 1…2…kick out by Shotzi!

MICHAEL COLE: Isla Dawn has managed to turn the tide here, but it’s gonna take a lot more than that to keep Shotzi down!

WADE BARRETT: Absolutely, Cole, she’s not going to give up that easily!

Isla pouts at the referee, upset that she wasn’t able to get the victory there. Getting to her feet, she reaches down and picks Shotzi up and brings her to her feet and immediately throws Shotzi’s head under her arm, hooks her leg and lifts her up in the air, driving her back down to the mat with a fisherman’s suplex! Once again Isla goes for the cover, 1…2…THRENOO! Shotzi gets the shoulder up just in time! Now it’s Isla who screams, this time in frustration at how close she was to putting Shotzi away. Getting to her feet, Isla bends down to pick Shotzi up again but Shotzi surprises her with a small package rollup pin! 1…2…Isla kicks out! Both women are on their feet now, Shotzi goes for a clothesline but Isla ducks the attempt and quickly turns around, nailing Shotzi with a kick to the midsection causing The Ballsy Badass to double over. Isla grabs Shotzi by the hair and jumps up, bringing Shotzi down to the mat with a facebuster!

MICHAEL COLE: What a move by Isla! This has been such an even match so far, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: Both of these women are fueled by their hatred for one another, that’s what keeps them going!

Looking down at Shotzi with a scowl, Isla bends down but before she can do anything, Shotzi hits her with a right hand to the face that sends The White Witch staggering back! Shotzi gets to her feet and she grabs Isla around the head, running to the ropes and jumping up onto the top rope, looking to hit a springboard bulldog but before she can launch herself off the rope, Isla hangs on and drives Shotzi back with a suplex! The crowd boos as Isla cackles, pleased that she was able to once again turn the tables. Getting to her feet, she reaches down and grabs Shotzi by the hair, throwing her head between her legs and going to lift her up for a powerbomb, but Shotzi sweeps Isla’s feet out from under her causing her to fall back to the mat! Shotzi quickly grabs Isla’s legs and then flips herself over Isla, bridging herself while keeping Isla’s shoulders down for the pin, 1…2…3! Shotzi gets the win!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, The Ballsy Badass, SHOOOTZIII BLAAACKHEARRRT!

MICHAEL COLE: Shotzi Blackheart has done it again! She’s gotten another win over the Unholy Union!

WADE BARRETT: This was a hell of a match, Cole, and you have to imagine that Shotzi is thrilled to have gotten this win and hopefully put the Unholy Union in her rearview mirror!

The crowd is cheering as “Ball Pit” begins playing on the speakers again and Shotzi gets to her feet. The referee raises her hand in the air to declare her the victory, and she points at the crowd with a huge smile on her face when suddenly, WHAM!

MICHAEL COLE: What the hell is this?!

WADE BARRETT: It’s Alba Fyre!

Sure enough, it’s Alba Fyre, Isla’s tag team partner who has struck Shotzi in the back with a double axe handle. As Shotzi goes down, Alba begins stomping away on The Ballsy Badass as Isla staggers to her feet. Noticing what Alba is doing, Isla cackles gleefully as she joins in on stomping away at Shotzi. The crowd is deafening with their boos as Alba and Isla then bend down and pick Shotzi up, bringing her to her feet and getting her into position for their double gory bomb flatliner! Before they can execute the move, however, “Stars in the Night” by CFO$ begins to play on the speakers and the crowd goes wild as Saraya comes running down to the ring! Sliding under the bottom rope, Saraya charges at Alba Fyre and takes her down with a Lou Thesz Press, hammering away at The Hardcore Daredevil with right hand shots! Isla isn’t going to stand for this, as she grabs Saraya by the hair and pulls her off of Alba, but Saraya nails The White Witch with a forearm to the face! Now Shotzi is back to her feet and she picks Alba Fyre up and the two ladies begin exchanging shots back and forth! It’s absolute chaos, Alba and Shotzi are exchanging blows, as are Saraya and Isla, none of the women letting up!

MICHAEL COLE: This is complete pandemonium, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: Somebody needs to come out here and break these ladies up!

Almost as if Wade’s comment was heard, “Welcome to the Queendom” begins to play on the speakers and the crowd erupts into cheers as Stephanie McMahon makes her way out for the second time tonight. The women stop brawling in the ring and turn their attention to Stephanie, all looking surprised to see her there. Once again staying at the top of the ramp with a microphone in hand, Stephanie waits for her music to fade before raising the microphone up to her mouth to speak.



STEPHANIE MCMAHON: Ladies, this issue between the four of you has gotten completely out of hand. All of this back and forth for weeks on end, the building animosity, and now even with Shotzi getting the win over Isla, you have a post match attack and now you’re all brawling in the ring…we need to see some resolution to this. Alba, Isla, a couple of weeks ago you had the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship belts and thought you were going to parade around with them until I took them back into my possession. But these issues between the four of you has me thinking…maybe you two were on to something.

The crowd is cheering as they can sense where this is going, as all four women now look curious as to what Stephanie is about to say. As the crowd’s cheers die down, Stephanie continues.

STEPHANIE MCMAHON: As I said, the issues between you have gotten completely out of hand, and I think we need to raise the stakes a little bit. You ladies want to fight so bad? Well, I’ll give you something to fight for. This Sunday night at SummerSlam, we’re going to see Shotzi Blackheart and Saraya team up to take on Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn, to crown the first WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions of the new era!

The crowd is going wild with this announcement, and all four ladies look excited about this news as they look at their respective partners with smiles before giving dirty looks to one another. Alba and Isla then begin to cackle and motion around their waists before rolling out of the ring and walking up the ramp. They reach the top of the ramp where Stephanie remains and they smirk at her before heading to the back. Stephanie looks at Shotzi and Saraya still in the ring and gives them a nod before turning and heading to the back. Shotzi and Saraya begin talking excitedly as they both exit the ring and hop down to the floor, walking up the ramp to the back.

MICHAEL COLE: What an announcement by Stephanie McMahon! The Women’s Tag Team Championship is coming back and we’re crowning the champions this Sunday!

WADE BARRETT: She said she wanted to up the ante and that’s a surefire way to do it! That’s going to be one hell of a match, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: That it is, partner! Ladies and gentlemen moving along, we received the following footage earlier today.

WADE BARRETT: Ugh. This? What an utter waste.

MICHAEL COLE: Now we believe this footage was taken some time between this morning, and the events we saw last week where Paul Heyman, in his quest to find Goldust, would get in a limousine chauffeured by the Blue Meanie.

WADE BARRETT: I always thought Paul was smarter than that.

MICHAEL COLE: Viewer discretion is advised. Some of the following footage is a bit graphic.

WADE BARRETT: It’s uncomfortable. I’ll give you that.

The video footage opens up to an interior shot of a hotel room. Paul Heyman isn’t physically restrained in the room’s only chair, but the Blue Meanie is hovering over him. Occasionally tickling his neck with a fake leaf that has been spray painted gold.

PAUL HEYMAN: Guys. Listen. I’ll say it again… I can give you what you want. I can arrange a meeting. Just let me speak to Solo.

Goldust speaks. His voice comes from behind the handheld camera.

GOLDUST: Don’t you think we are a little past that?

PAUL HEYMAN: I’m the son of a lawyer. I believe there’s always a resolution to every problem. But please… you’re going to have to let me speak to Solo.

GOLDUST: Oh, you’ll speak to Solo. But you won’t be leaving here. No. No.

Goldust extends his left hand into the frame of the camera. He’s holding a gold robe.

GOLDUST: We’re going to send him a message here. Tonight. Right now, in fact. And we are going to do it together. Put on the robe and we can begin.

Paul is hesitant. But he eventually leans up and out of his chair and puts on the gold robe. Meanie helps.

GOLDUST: Now repeat after me.

PAUL HEYMAN: I’ll say whatever, but I won’t lead Solo into a trap.

GOLDUST: Maybe we need to have another talk about this.

PAUL HEYMAN: No. No. That’s fine. I’ll say whatever. Please. Let’s continue.

Paul pleads.

GOLDUST: Meanie. Grab the gag.

The camera cuts off abruptly.

WADE BARRETT: That’s it?

MICHAEL COLE: What more do you need to see? Truly disturbing images.

We come back to the ring and there is a table set up with a chair on either side. Eric Bischoff stands in the middle of the ring with a black leather folder in one hand and a microphone in the other. The fans are loudly booing but it doesn’t take the smile off his face.

ERIC BISCHOFF: Ladies and gentlemen, six days from now in SoFi Stadium in California will be the second biggest event that the WWE puts on every year, SummerSlam. And at that event will be two men facing each other for the first time, and they will do so for the biggest prize in this industry, the WWE Championship. So, without further ado, let's get them out here and get this match signed. First, we have the number one contender, a man who had his dream ripped away from him only to claw them back and is now one step from the top of the wrestling mountaintop…Corey Graves!



The fans erupt with booing as Corey Graves’ music hits and he struts out the entrance way. He walks with the swagger that has been growing for months as he makes his way into the ring and Bischoff hands him the microphone. His music dies down, but the boos do not.

COREY GRAVES: You know, it has been very hard sitting at home for a few weeks now. I haven’t really been around since the Money in the Bank match was stolen from me. And that was because this man Eric Bischoff advised me to rest up, heal up, because I would have the biggest match of my life soon.

Graves looks over to Bischoff who has a huge smile and nods at him.

COREY GRAVES: And I missed a lot of things about not being here at Monday Night RAW every week. But one thing I did not miss was having to see, hear, and quite frankly smell this moronic mob of fans every week. So, I’m glad I got a break from that.

The fans erupt again in another round of venom shot toward the number one contender’s way, but it only seems to make him cockier in his body language. He pulls out one of the chairs and sits at the makeshift conference table.

COREY GRAVES: I’ve waited years for this opportunity, and I don’t want to wait any longer than I have to. So, big man, get your ass and my championship out here so we can sign on the dotted line and you can't politic your way out of this at the last moment.



With that, the champ’s music starts to play, and the fans jump to their feet. Out walks Diesel with the WWE Championship over his shoulder. He walks at his own pace down the entrance ramp with fans reaching as far as they can to try and just touch him, but he is focused on the men in the ring and just keeps walking. As he finally makes it up the steps and walks over the top rope, he pulls his own microphone from his back pocket. Graves’ eyes are locked on the championship sitting on his shoulder.

DIESEL: It’s nice to see you decided to come out and finally do some of your own talking. I’ll give you respect that you are out here on your own, not with your girl or those two pitbulls that Eric seems to be keeping on a tight leash.

Bischoff gestures to the other chair and Diesel sits, laying the title this is all about on the table, close enough for Graves to touch, but he doesn’t.

DIESEL: I know this is your first time at this level kid, and that’s why you want all this pomp and circumstance. But if you’ll let the old vet give ya some advice…I know you think you are ready for how hot the spotlight is about to get. I know you think you’ve been able to imagine what it would be like to main event one of the biggest events this company does, but you can’t. I’ve looked across tables like this at the first timers over and over again…it always ends the same way.

Diesel gives his own cocky smirk. Graves doesn’t look impressed as he raises his microphone.

COREY GRAVES: Thanks for those words of wisdom, champ. Let me give you some of my own, I’m not like any of those guys you faced before. I’m not some up and coming twenty something who's got the rocket strapped to him and isn’t ready for the spot he’s been put in. I’m not a young kid who is going to let his immaturity cloud what needs to be done. The one good thing about not getting to do what I love for a decade is now, now I’m a mature man who knows better. I mean, I’m still a quarter century younger than your ass, but that’s more about you on your final ride here than me.

You can read the expression on Diesel’s face: he doesn't like his age being brought into this, but also not surprised. Bischoff, sensing it is getting off the rails, places the leather folder in front of Graves and hands him a pen. Graves quickly signs and Bischoff picks it up, walks it to the other side of the table and lays it in front of the champ.

DIESEL: This ride has included a championship you will never have. I’m trying to be nice here because you are Bischoff’s new little pet project and despite how he’s acted the last few weeks, me and Easy E go way back. But being nice here tonight…not putting you through this table. That’s about as far as our relationship gets you. In Cali, you are just another poor sap that I’m going to drive through the canvas courtesy of the ole’ number one, the Jackknife.

Diesel opens the folder; he signs the contract. He then harshly pushes it into Bischoff’s chest as he goes to secure it. Once it’s signed, Diesel throws the title back on his shoulder but remains seated. Graves slowly rises to his feet.

COREY GRAVES: I can respect that, but what you need to respect is that I’m hungrier than any opponent you’ve ever faced before. Forget the Swerve Stricklands, forget the Diamond Dallas Pages, the Goldbergs, the Bret Harts, even your cross-eyed little buddy when you guys were fighting over titles. You have never been in the ring with someone like me and you don’t know what’s coming for you. But it’s time that the WWE Championship is around the waist of someone who doesn’t make this company look like a joke. It’s time for you to go off into the sunset. So, when I take you down big man, STAY DOWN.

With that Graves’ music begins to play, Bischoff leaves the ring and Graves goes to leave, but as he passes the seated champion, he stops. He leans in and whispers something that the cameras cannot pick up, but then he stands back up and leaves the ring. Diesel remains seated with his championship and an unimpressed look on his face.

MICHAEL COLE: Corey Graves has been talking a big game, but we haven’t seen much action out of him as of late!

WADE BARRETT: He’s not wrong though, Diesel is getting up there in years and the old guard had its time in the sun. It’s time for a new age in the WWE, one that is led by Money & Mayhem!

MICHAEL COLE: I certainly hope not, I think that if he’s still got it that Diesel can lead us into the future better than any man on this roster! The real question is, who in this next match is going to be the future of the WWE in a few years!

”Big” by Jim Johnston plays over the P/A system of the arena as he lumbers his way out to the top of the stage. Big Show lifts his hand to the air before marching his way down to the ring, a big evil grin on his face as he pats his right fist into his open palm in a threatening manner as he makes his way down to the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is a seven-man battle royal, making his way to the ring, Biiig Shooow!

MICHAEL COLE: A giant has got to have an advantage in a battle royal! Big Show is one of the largest athletes in the world and this could mean trouble for the rest of our superstars in this match!

WADE BARRETT: Odds on favorite has got to be the guy that’s nearly impossible to throw out of the ring!

"Absterge" by ROTNEST begins to play as Crazzy Steve slowly makes his way to the top of the stage and begins to inexplicably scream. Finally breaking out of it, he makes his way down to the ring, pointing at Big Show as he climbs under the ring and disappears under the apron.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent, making his way to the ring, Craaazzy Steeeve!

MICHAEL COLE: While I’m not super familiar, he does give off quite a creepy vibe. I can see why they call him Crazzy Steve all the way from over here!

WADE BARRETT: What’s he doing underneath the ring, you can’t win the match under there?!

The Chairmen's Intent by Action Bronson begins to play as HOOK confidently strides out to the top of the stage, staring out at the arena as he takes in the packed crowd, using a hand to wipe the hair back and out of his face. He begins to make his way down to the ring as he points at Big Show as if to say he better watch out!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And their opponent, making his way to the ring, HOOOK!

MICHAEL COLE: This young man has been building himself up much like his father back in the day as a suplex machine. He’s still very young, but he’s not like any other rookie superstar you’ve ever seen. You have to watch out because he’s got several tricks up his sleeve that might catch you by surprise!

WADE BARRETT: A rookie with the knowledge of a true veteran superstar. Quite dangerous as an opponent because the temptation is to underestimate the new guy!

"Proto(Re)vision" begins to play as the bad, bad boy Joey Janela makes his way out onto the stage with a grin on his face. He takes off the sunglasses on his face as he tosses them into the audience and begins to make his way down to the ring ready for action!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And their opponent, making his way to the ring, Joeyyy Jaaaanela!

MICHAEL COLE: As the music says he’s a bad bad boy and he’s ready to compete tonight!

WADE BARRETT: Joey Janela out here for his first foray in the WWE and he’s got his work cut out for him!

”Never Thought My Life Could Be This Good” by Jim Johnston begins to play as he drives out from the side of the stage in a golf cart. He pulls a nine-iron out of his golf bag as he makes his way to the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And their opponent, making his way to the ring, Kerwiiin Whiiite!

MICHAEL COLE: Once again the bizarre makes its way into the WWE. Apparently somebody from the local country club has made his way to the ring!

WADE BARRETT: Kerwin White is a national treasure, Cole! Everybody knows exactly who this man is!

”The Devil Made Me Do It” by Emil Bulls hits the P/A system of the arena as Tommy End makes his way at a quickened pace towards the ring. He doesn’t care for this taking any longer than it has to it appears.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And their opponent, making his way to the ring, Tommmy Enddd!

MICHAEL COLE: Tommy End clearly has a few screws loose, Wade. I’m not sure how wise it is to allow this man to compete or even that he should be cleared to be able to!

WADE BARRETT: He’s quite clearly not all there, but this could make for some interesting situations!

"Hollywood" is showing on the TitanTron and once the intro starts and The Rock shows up on the screen, the fans start to go electric in the arena. The crowd completely loses their mind when The Rock comes walking out from the back. Dressed in a pair of leather pants, no shirt, and a leather jacket, big bull belt buckle, and shades on his face. Rock walks slowly onto the stage and takes his time, letting the fans' reaction sink in before starting down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And their opponent, making his way to the ring, The Rooock!

MICHAEL COLE: The most electrifying man in all of sports and entertainment, Wade! The Rock hasn’t been back in quite some time, but it looks like he’s decided to make a special appearance here tonight!

WADE BARRETT: I’ve changed my vote, Cole! I think The Rock is clearly going to win this one!

Stopping here and there to build up the moment, The Rock speeds it up when he gets toward the end of the ramp and climbs up the stairs and jogs across the apron to climb up on the middle rope and throws his right arm high in the air. It gets a loud pop from the fans before he climbs down and steps through the ropes, pacing through the ring and then climbing on the buckle across the ring to throw his arm up again and pause proudly on the turnbuckle. The Rock soaks it in one last time before stepping down off the turnbuckle.

BEHOLD THE KING! THE KING OF KINGS! ON YOUR KNEES DOG!

”King of Kings” by Motorhead hits the P/A system of the arena as Triple H makes his way to the top of the stage and holds up a hand for the contestants in the ring to stop themselves for a moment as they all look on the edge and ready to fight one another.



TRIPLE H: Gentlemen, if you could just hold on for a moment! Just one moment! This battle royal isn’t just to give you all an opportunity to make your debut here in the WWE. Stephanie and I felt this would be a good way to give one of you the opportunity of a lifetime. At least, the opportunity at the opportunity of a lifetime, because the last man standing in that ring will move on to face Bron Breakker in two weeks to see who will get an opportunity at the WWE Intercontinental Championship! So, without further ado - -

Orange Cassidy casually saunters out onto the stage as he stops next to Triple H and says something to him. Triple H looks as though he’s thinking about it for a moment before he extends his right arm out towards the ring.

TRIPLE H: Good luck gentlemen, Orange Cassidy will be a new challenge for all of you and this match starts now!

Orange Cassidy gives a halfway decent thumbs up before he starts heading down towards the ring. Crazzy Steve has begun to toss weapons into the ring, steel chairs, trash cans, kendo sticks. But Big Show leans over and pulls him up by his hair and drags him into the ring.

---

---

The bell rings as pure chaos has broken out in the ring after Big Show pulled Crazzy Steve into it. Rock is slapping the hell out of Joey Janela, Hook is stomping Tommy End into the corner of the ring in the turnbuckle, Big Show is goozling Crazzy Steve before he’s kicked in the nuts from behind by The Rock! The Rock begins to struggle to get Big Show over the ropes but is attacked from behind by Orange Cassidy who immediately regrets it because a blind by pain Big Show grabs him around the throat and CHOKESLAM TO THE FLOOR!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Orange Cassidy has been eliminated!

MICHAEL COLE: As quick as he was added, he’s been eliminated!

WADE BARRETT: Zero preparation and zero effort!

Orange Cassidy gets to his feet and holds his back but dusts himself off as he shrugs and makes his way to the back. Big Show holds onto his crotch as he’s still feeling the effects of that low blow and uses the ropes for support with the other hand. The Rock is back on the attack though and begins to try and lift Big Show over the ropes again! Hook, Janela, End, Steve and White have all noticed though and make their way over to help. Everyone uses all of their strength to lift Big Show over the ropes and White grabs Rock and gives a good lift to him as well! Both Big Show and surprisingly The Rock have gone tumbling over the top rope and down to the floor at the same time!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Big Show and The Rock have been eliminated!

MICHAEL COLE: Well I guess that eliminates your prediction!

WADE BARRETT: Not only does it eliminate my first choice but also my second choice for who I expected to win this!

White celebrates his intelligence as he picks up his golf club and takes a swing at End who ducks the attempt and nails a vicious roundhouse kick on him! HOOK scoops up White from behind after the shot and nails a TAZPLEX that sends White into the turnbuckle corner! Steve is now laying into Janela with a trash can as he dents it with every shot, his final move is to place it over Janela’s head before he shotgun dropkicks Janela into the corner with White. HOOK gives a strong Irish whip into that same corner sending End crashing into them with an avalanche! All three men stumble out and land on their faces as they come out of the corner now! HOOK grabbing Kerwin White up and hooks him up for an overhead BELLY-TO-BELLY SUPLEX that sends him up and over the ropes to the floor!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Kerwin White has been eliminated!

MICHAEL COLE: We’re down to the final four here already, Wade! This match has been going quick, nobody wants to spend too much time and take damage that’s unnecessary!

WADE BARRETT: Well if they want a chance at the Intercontinental Championship, they are going to need to stay fresh! Bron Breakker is not an easy man to beat, and he’s their next obstacle in two weeks

Steve and Janela have paired off to assault each other, while End has begun to trade hard strikes with HOOK. Janela tosses Steve into the turnbuckle shoulder first as he grabs a steel chair off the canvas and waits to unload on his prey. HOOK, however, manages to dropkick Tommy into the back of Janela just as he swings the chair back and knocks him hard with the chair in the process! HOOK doesn’t hesitate and scoops under the legs and over the shoulder as he tosses Tommy with a shoulder capture suplex! Janela meanwhile swings and nails Steve with the steel chair right on the dome! Janela tosses the chair aside and pulls Steve in as he scoops him so he’s upside down and nails a PACKAGE PILEDRIVER! HOOK now stomps down End in the turnbuckle corner and Janela checks to make sure he’s safe and picks Steve up off the canvas and tosses him over the top rope!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Crazzy Steve has been eliminated!

MICHAEL COLE: Using the weapons wasn’t quite as effective for him as he had hoped!

WADE BARRETT: Crazzy Steve being checked on after that piledriver and he’ll be helped to the back after being dropped on his head!

Janela rushes over to the corner and pulls HOOK away and begins stomping on End himself as he really lays into him in the corner! HOOK doesn’t look pleased at all though as he stands behind Janela and wraps his arms around the throat and under Janela’s arm and captures him in the REDRUM! Janela is flailing as he tries to break out of it but it seems to be to no avail! Tommy has slowly pulled himself up as he just watches the two men, the fight for Janela’s survival is clearly not his concern as he catches his breath. HOOK grows impatient waiting for the knock out though and instead suplexes Janela across the ring as he releases the hold! As he turns his attention back to End though he’s nailed with a BLACK MASS! HOOK falls backwards into the ropes from the kick that’s clearly sent him for a loop! Tommy End rushes in and nails a high knee that sends HOOK over the ropes and to the floor!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, HOOK has been eliminated!

MICHAEL COLE: Well it appears as though we’re down to the final two! Tommy End and Joey Janela will compete for that shot to face Bron Breakker!

WADE BARRETT: I don’t know if that’s something I would want to fight for, but that Intercontinental Championship shot is quite tempting for any superstar!

Tommy End turns around as Joey Janela is slowly getting back to his feet and he is clearly exhausted having been through so much action. Janela though has a determined look on his face as Tommy smirks. Tommy charges in as he Janela and wails on him as he takes him down to the canvas! He batters Joey with several punches to the head as Janela struggles to defend himself! Tommy is far from done as he scoops Joey off the mat and tosses him across the ring with a German suplex! Janela goes flying but Tommy is far from done as he grabs Joey from behind and hits another one! Tommy this time holds on and hits a second one, he holds on and hits a third, sending Joey flying across the ring! Janela is really struggling to stand as End gets back to his feet and stalks his prey!

MICHAEL COLE: Janela is in a bad position here!

WADE BARRETT: And it’s only looking to get worse from here, Cole!

He grabs hold of Joey and looks to lift him up to toss him from the ring... but Janela elbows End in the side of the head! Tommy shouts in pain as he releases the hold! Tommy is sent back as Janela goes to grab him from behind and hits a GERMAN SUPLEX but End nails an elbow to the side of Janela’s head! Janela is slammed to the mat as Tommy winces from the shot to his head, still dazing him a bit! End grabs hold of Joey Janela, grabbing him by the head, and gets ready to toss him out of the ring but Janela fights back with some punches out of desperation! Janela gets off a series of strikes as he fends End off but End manages to nail a roundhouse kick to the jaw that rocks Janela! Joey falls down to the mat as Tommy stands tall once again. End picks Joey up and slams him down with a spinebuster! Tommy once again looks to eliminate Joey Janela by gorilla press slam out of the ring but Janela gets a thumb to the eye and escapes and rolls back towards the center of the ring and Tommy is pissed off!

MICHAEL COLE: Not a wise move to infuriate a mad man!

WADE BARRETT: Could be a strategic move here, or the worst move Janela has made in his career!

Tommy charges in as he looks to grab Joey who counters with a massive SUPERKICK! Tommy is rocked but Joey isn't done there as he kicks him in the gut and plants Tommy with a PACKAGE PILEDRIVER that plants his skull into the canvas! Tommy staggers back to his feet as Joey Janela runs off the ropes and hits a superkick! Tommy staggers as the crowd gets behind Janela who runs off the ropes and connects with a second superkick! Tommy is now on the ropes struggling to stand up as Janela rushes forward and clotheslines him over the top rope! Tommy isn’t done however as he manages to land on his feet on the apron still teetering! Janela turns to spot this and shrugs before delivering a third SUPERKICK and Tommy releases the top rope and rag dolls off the apron to the floor!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Tommy End has been eliminated!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, JOEYYY JAAANELAAA!

MICHAEL COLE: A hard fought victory here and it looks like Joey Janela is moving on to face Bron Breakker in two weeks for that shot at the WWE Intercontinental Championship!

WADE BARRETT: Janela impressed me at the end there, Cole! It took a lot to get there but he persevered, and it paid off!

Janela is leaning over the ropes as he can hardly believe what he’s just accomplished. The referee tries to raise his hand, but a tired Janela is practically collapsing after the Herculean effort and the damage done to him! Tommy End rips apart the stairs at ringside as he screams at the officials on the outside who stop him from going back into the ring. Security eventually takes over and begins to herd him to the back as they grab his arms and drag him kicking and screaming with rage! Janela rolling out of the ring as he takes a breath before making his way up the ramp and entering the backstage area.

MICHAEL COLE: Well folks, as you all know, last week we witnessed the aftermath of multiple brutal attacks on various members of the WWE locker room. Matt Cardona and MJF, even John Cena fell victim to this mysterious attacker’s wrath!

WADE BARRETT: The WWE Universe has been abuzz with speculation about who it could have been. Who do you think it could be, Cole?

MICHAEL COLE: Well, there’s been rumors that it was actually the man who, just two weeks ago, defeated John Cena right here on Monday Night RAW: Bron
Breakker! We’ve got Cathy Kelley backstage right now, trying to talk to him about it. Cathy?

The camera feed changes to a moving camera backstage, showing Cathy Kelley hustling after the broad shoulders that could only be Bron Breakker’s. He has a gym bag slung over his shoulder and he’s walking with some speed.

CATHY KELLEY: Bron, I wanted - -

Bron doesn’t look back as he barks out a reply.

BRON BREAKKER: No comment!

CATHY KELLEY: I just want to give you an opportunity to respond to the rumors, Bron!

Bron stops suddenly, nearly making Cathy and the cameraman both crash into him as he spins around.

BRON BREAKKER: You want a response, Cathy?

Cathy nods nervously, holding the microphone out to him. Bron looks into the camera, frustration plain in the hard set of his jaw.



BRON BREAKKER: Fine, you got it. I didn’t have anything to do with what happened to John, or to Cardona or MJF, alright? John and I talked about it and worked things out, and Strong Island and I haven’t even talked since I’ve gotten here. So, if you’re out here in the locker room spreading rumors like this is the playground at recess? Either stop, or I’ll meet you out in the ring and you can say them to my face. Got it? Good.

After a moment, Breaker turns and stalks off down the hallway. He opens a door and steps inside, slamming it shut hard enough to make the camera shake slightly. After a moment, Cathy clears her throat and turns to face the camera.

CATHY KELLEY: Well, uh…Michael, Wade, back to you guys.

MICHAEL COLE: It seems Bron Breakker says he didn’t have anything to do with it.

WADE BARRETT: He’s lying to your face, Cole. What kind of innocent man threatens people to stop saying he did it?!

MICHAEL COLE: You might have a point there, Wade.

Our cameras now go to Byron Saxton, who is holding a microphone and standing in the backstage area. He smiles and begins to speak towards the camera.

BYRON SAXTON: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time - -"Mr. Money in the Bank" - - Danhausen.

The camera pulls back and Danhausen steps into frame, covering up Byron Saxton in the process. He bares his teeth and looks into the camera before hissing at Saxton.



The crowd cheers for Danhausen, who is clutching his Money in the Bank briefcase closely. Saxton helps Danhausen get into position for his interview.

BYRON SAXTON: It's been some time since I've seen you, Danhausen, but congratulations on your monumental victory a few weeks back.

DANHAUSEN: Yes, well, your well wishes are belated, and while Danhausen accepts them and thanks you for them - - you will still be punished for not worshiping Danhausen at a sooner date. But luckily for you, Mr. Sextonhausen, your new supreme overlord is a kind and forgiving one! When Danhausen ascends the throne, you'll have minimal manual labor. It will be tough, but you will have no one to blame but yourself!

BYRON SAXTON: Right, right…anyway, over the last few weeks, we've seen that you've had some trouble cashing in the Money in the Bank briefcase. We've seen you try to take the briefcase to a bank; we saw you attempt to cash in the contract on Triple H for the title of CEO, and just last week, we saw you unsuccessfully attempt to challenge Serena Deeb for the WWE Women's Championship.

DANHAUSEN: It's no secret that things have not gone according to plan with the redeeming of my Human Monies in the Vault briefcase - -but, alas, Danhausen always has a plan! Never fear! Someday soon, Danhausen will have his blimp and giant sacks of money. It's truly all that Danhausen has ever dreamt of!

Just then, the WWE World Champion walks into frame and towers over the much smaller Danhausen. At his side is Old Man Michaels, who Danhausen hisses at. Diesel adjusts the WWE Championship over his shoulder and looks down at Danhausen.

DIESEL: Big Daddy Cool heard something about giant stacks of money?

The look on Danhausen's face is one of both shock and awe. Mouth agape and jaw on the floor, Danhausen is visibly flustered. Diesel sticks his hand out to shake Danhausen's.

DIESEL: I don’t think we’ve met, I’m Big Daddy Cool. But you can call me Diesel. Or better yet, the WWE Champion.

DANHAUSEN: Oh, goodness! It's…it's Truckman! Greetings, Danhausen is a big fan of yours! Your ability to acquire giant sacks of money knows no bounds! Perhaps no one better in the world at that than you, Mr. Truckman! A pleasure to make your acquaintance.

DIESEL: The pleasure is all mine, what with this talk of giant stacks of money and all.

OLD MAN MICHAELS: Yeah, this is all well and good and everything, but, do you even know what that thing is for?

Old Man Michaels looks down at Danhausen’s briefcase.

OLD MAN MICHAELS: That briefcase of yours?


Danhausen looked down at the briefcase and raised his eyebrow.

DANHAUSEN: Hmm…yes, it makes it a bit easier to transport my jars of teeth around!

DIESEL: That may be true, but it’s a little more complex than that. See my man, that briefcase means that you’re due a shot at the WWE Championship. That briefcase of yours is pretty much a golden ticket.

It looks like a light bulb has just gone off in Danhausen's head. It’s a dim bulb, but it’s there! Danhausen looks as if he finally understands the concept of the Money in the Bank briefcase that he had risked life and limb to win.

DANHAUSEN: So, you're saying that Danhausen could be World Champion like Truckman one day?

DIESEL: What Big Daddy Cool is saying is that you get a SHOT at becoming a World Champion like me.

Diesel pats Danhausen on the shoulder and walks away out of frame.

OLD MAN MICHAELS: Jars of teeth?

Shawn Michaels departs the scene, leaving Danhausen to ponder over the Money in the Bank briefcase intensely.

MICHAEL COLE: Well it seems like Danhausen finally grasps the concept of the Money in the Bank briefcase, and I think our WWE Champion is about to be exposed to a lot of hijinx! Now ladies and gentlemen, last week we received a very…interesting video tape from Bo Ballas, and it seems as though we have another one to show you here tonight!

WADE BARRETT: First that video from Goldust and now another one from Bo Dallas…it’s like we’ve turned into America’s Funniest Home Videos, except none of them are funny! Honestly, Cole, I don’t mind saying that Bo Dallas freaks me right out, so I’m a little on edge as to what could be on this tape!

MICHAEL COLE: Well we’re about to find out, Wade, here we go!

Bo it seems like you’ve got a real problem with the authority here and some of the people who work here.

Bo Dallas just sits there for the moment, fingers toy at the strings of the bracelet on his right hand, rolling over the beads at the ends as he leans against the wall beside the door of the office that just so happens to be in the back. He's not sure that he wants anyone to come here to speak with him, to try and talk to him, to try and help him with his past mistakes. He's already been handed everything he's fought for; he is wearing it right now around his wrist, more than enough for someone like him. But there's some part of him that thinks that maybe if he stands here, he won't have to worry quite so much about watching his back. He's tired of his enemies and the bullshit of people sneaking around wanting to harm him or waiting to see what he will do. Not that he can't take them or that he's afraid. He just wants the rest. Wants the chance to watch the world move around him to understand the mind of the sinner. He wants to understand more about his brother, he wants to understand how he did it all.

HE WANTED TO KNOW WHAT IT WAS LIKE, WHAT IT FELT LIKE.

HE WANTED TO KNOW WHAT IT WAS LIKE TO HAVE THE WHOLE WORLD IN HIS HANDS.

Bo turns a slow smile towards the voice in his mind, lips curling up on one side as brows raise in a genuine expression of amusement.

BO DALLAS: I don't think I’m the one here who has an issue with authority. I think everyone here has an issue with me being here, as if I have done something so wrong and awful, that the looks I am given are sickening.

A quiet chuckle escapes his lips as his hands dip to tuck into the front pockets of his jeans and he shifts his weight for the moment and continues to sit there. All his life, he has been someone who minds his own business. He has never sought out trouble, but every single time, trouble finds him, and quickly regrets it.

BO DALLAS: Only one person here has had the guts to stand up to the people who hold power. It's hardest to walk away from family that insists on stomping you down, don't worry…family isn't always blood and from what I’ve seen , family comes in many shapes and sizes. I once had a family, I once had everything, but in a way, the authority here, there, everywhere, took someone very important from me. Someone who tried to play by their rules and when it all came to a head, playing by their rules, was the end of him. I am not that man; I never have been. I never will be him, I have lived in his shadow all my life, and seen his mistakes, and unlike others, I have learned from them. There is comfort in the shadows I was left in and monsters as well, what crawled out of them, I don’t even know anymore, I really don’t know, what I am, all I know, is you need…to stay away from me.

Bo looks down for the moment, swallows and closes his eyes as he touches his wrist again and just remains there. He has issues, he has darkness, he has a plague that eats within himself, and it is a problem for him and everyone else who tries to get anywhere near him. With a final sigh, Bo gets up from where he’s seated and walks off as the video fades and we go back to the announce table.

MICHAEL COLE: Unfortunately, it seems like Bo is still dealing with the loss of his brother.

WADE BARRETT: It sounds like it’s turned him into a bit of a rebel. He doesn't sound very happy with the status quo.

MICHAEL COLE: You’re right there, Wade. And speaking of rebels, we have two of the torchbearers for the next generation of WWE women’s superstars ready to step in the ring tonight, as Dakota Kai is taking the rare step of defending her Money in the Bank briefcase against the up-and-coming Lola Vice.

WADE BARRETT: I’d never accuse Dakota of being anything but a fighter, but she might have her work cut out for her tonight. Lola’s a dangerous woman!

”Te Lo Rompo” by def rebel begins to play, and the crowd erupts into boos as Lola Vice sashays her way out to the top of the ramp. Swinging her hips suggestively, Lola smirks and puts her arms out to the side as she strikes a pose before making her way down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and the women’s Money in the Bank briefcase will be on the line! Introducing first, making her way to the ring, The Lethal Vice, Looolaaa Viiice!

MICHAEL COLE: Two weeks ago, Lola Vice got a surprising win over Ms. Money in the Bank, Dakota Kai. She felt that with that victory, she was entitled to an opportunity at the Money in the Bank briefcase and shockingly, Dakota agreed!

WADE BARRETT: “Shockingly” is a great word for it, Cole, I can’t believe Dakota agreed to put her briefcase on the line after what she had to go through to get it!

As she reaches the bottom of the ramp, Lola slinks over to the side of the ring and jumps onto the apron, striking another pose before entering the ring. Going to the center of the ring, Lola strikes yet another pose, a confident smile breaking out on her face. Unzipping her jacket, Lola drops it over the top rope to the ringside attendant and she begins shadow boxing as she turns her attention to the entrance area as her music fades out. “Kombat (remix)” by def rebel begins to play now and the crowd gives a more mixed reaction as Ms. Money in the Bank, Dakota Kai comes out to the top of the ramp. Looking out at the crowd with an intense gaze, Dakota raises her Money in the Bank briefcase high in the air which actually draws some cheers from the Anaheim crowd. Giving them a nod, Dakota lowers the briefcase and turns her attention to Lola Vice as she begins making her way down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And her opponent, making her way to the ring, she is Ms. Money in the Bank, Dakoootaaa Kaiii!

MICHAEL COLE: The surprises just keep on coming, Dakota Kai is actually getting some cheers here tonight! I guess that tells you how this crowd feels about Lola Vice!

WADE BARRETT: Or maybe they just respect Dakota because of the hard work she’s put in to become one of the top competitors in the women’s division!

As Dakota gets to the bottom of the ramp, she pauses for a moment, sneering as she looks at Lola Vice waiting for her. Walking over to the steel steps, Dakota walks up to the apron and enters the ring, raising the briefcase high in the air to show it off at Lola who laughs and points at it, saying she’ll be taking it home with her after tonight. Dakota shakes her head and says the briefcase is going nowhere, and as her music begins to fade out, she hands the briefcase over to the referee who raises it in the air to indicate that it’s on the line.

---

---

The bell rings, and the two women slowly start to circle each other with their hands outstretched, each one searching the other for an opening. Lola reaches out and Dakota accepts the lockup, but right as she starts to try to leverage her strength, Lola Vice delivers a kick to the side of Kai’s knee! Dakota yelps in pain and tries to pull back, but Vice locks in the grip and hits the knee again, and again! Vice releases Dakota’s hands and she stumbles back, clutching the bad knee.

WADE BARRETT: Smart of Lola Vice to hit that knee, it’s given Dakota Kai trouble for a long time.

MICHAEL COLE: It’s certainly clever, and it could leave Kai in a lot of trouble, given how important her legs are to her move set!

Dakota Kai limps backwards into the corner, clutching her knee and rubbing it to try to get some of the pain out, but the distraction costs her as Vice comes charging in with the cornered clothesline! Dakota loses her footing and slides down, clutching her midsection. Lola taunts Kai with her arms outstretched, asking what are you going to do? Lola backs up with a malicious grin and lines her opponent in her sights for a corner hip attack! NO! Kai slides under the ropes and Lola Vice can’t stop herself from crashing into the corner! She stumbles back clutching at her arm, and Kai adds insult to injury by grabbing both of Lola’s ankles and physically yanks them out from under her! The crowd erupts as Lola crashes down hard!

MICHAEL COLE: That might have just stopped Lola Vice before she ever got started!

WADE BARRETT: Lola Vice might be an experienced martial artist, Cole, but Dakota Kai has nearly two decades of in-ring experience and that’s going to be hard to top!

Indeed, Dakota leans on some of that experience as she grabs Lola’s arm - - the one that crashed into the turnbuckle - - and stretches it straight, before snapping it back down hard on the apron corner. Lola shouts in pain and rips the arm out of her grip, holding it to her chest and sliding further into the ring. Dakota Kai grins viciously and slides in before the ref can continue his count. The Auckland native rises to her feet and starts to drag Lola to her feet. Lola tries to resist, but Kai stuns her with a clubbing blow to the shoulder before hefting her up in position for the GTS! But no! She can’t lock in the position on that damaged knee, and it gives Lola Vice enough time to come to her senses. The Lethal Vice drives her elbow into Kai’s shoulder, causing the grip to loosen enough that Vice can slip free. Before Kai can react, Lola spins her around and pulls her head under her arm! The guillotine choke is locked in!

MICHAEL COLE: Look out, this could be catastrophic for Dakota!

WADE BARRETT: Vice might just have this one in the bag!

Dakota Kai thrashes and tries to free herself, but the grip stays locked tight as both women sink down to the mat. For a moment it looks like Kai is fading; the ref raises her arm once, and it falls down limply. He does it a second time, and again it falls. The third…no! Dakota Kai raises her other arm and starts driving her fist down on what looks like her own head at first, until Lola Vice recoils in pain. She tries to keep her grip locked in, but it loosens enough for Kai to get her breath back. The Aussie pries the hold loose and rolls over, transitioning into an arm bar!

MICHAEL COLE: Neither of these women are particularly technical fighters, but the counters have been flying back and forth here tonight.

WADE BARRETT: These are two dangerous women, Cole. They’ll rip your arm off if you’re not careful!

Lola Vice tries to fight free from the submission hold and manages to keep Kai from completely cranking back on the wounded arm, but Dakota’s got two good arms, and her grip is locked in. The two women struggle for control until Kai raises her good leg and brings her heel down on Lola’s midsection! She cranks back further, and the agony is plain on Lola’s face.

MICHAEL COLE: This might be it for Vice!

WADE BARRETT: Kai’s locked in!

The ref asks Lola if she wants to give in, and for a moment it looks like the Floridian might give in. She raises her right…and brings it down as a fist! She’s not done yet, and she starts reaching out for the ropes, but she’s just out of reach! Using her arms, her feet, anything she can use she starts to drag herself closer. Dakota tries to pull back, but Vice has the strength to drag herself just close enough to get her foot on the ropes for a rope break! The official orders Dakota to break her hold, and after a moment she does. The two women eye each other for a moment before rising to their feet…Dakota’s head gets snapped back by a SPINNING HEEL KICK from Lola Vice! Kai crumples to the mat and Vice is there with the cover! 1…2…3? NO! Kick out at 2.99!

MICHAEL COLE: I could have sworn Dakota was out cold!

WADE BARRETT: I’m not convinced she isn’t! That might have just been instinct, I’m not fully sure she knows where she is right now!

Vice can’t believe it, she thought she had the win, and she tries to tell the official to count faster, but he confirms his count was right. She lets out a frustrated sigh and turns to let out some of that aggression on her opponent. She drives her own knee onto Dakota Kai’s bad leg, continuing to work the old injury and drawing boos from the crowd. The Miami native holds her arms outstretched, telling the crowd she doesn’t care what they think. Kai tries to roll away and create some distance, but Vice plants a solid boot in the small of her back, rolling the Auckland native over onto her back.

MICHAEL COLE: Oh come on, now she’s just playing with her opponent! Why isn’t the ref calling this match?!

WADE BARRETT: Some people have all the luck!

Vice looks like she’s getting tired of the back and forth, though, and she’s ready to put Kai away once and for all. She drags Kai to her feet and steps back, dropping into a Taekwondo stance. She spins…305! NO! Kai ducks and grabs the injured arm, dragging Lola down with her! Kai’s going for the arm bar…it’s locked in! Vice is in the middle of the ring, she’s not got anywhere to go, and Kai’s grip is solid. Every move sends agony shooting down that arm, and after a moment Vice taps!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, and STIIILL Ms. Money in the Bank, DAKOOOTAAA KAIII!

MICHAEL COLE: Dakota Kai just stole it! Dakota Kai keeps the case!

WADE BARRETT: That was a close fight, but Kai just proved that experience usually wins out over raw talent!

The official raises Dakota Kai’s hand in victory as “Kombat (remix)” by def rebel plays through the arena’s speakers once again. A ringside official offers up the women’s Money in the Bank briefcase and Kai clutches it to her chest as if not wanting to let it out of her sight. She eyes the bent and battered Lola where she lays in the ring clutching her arm, and gives a soft head shake before stepping out of the ring and limping up the ramp.

MICHAEL COLE: Well folks, that was a heck of a way to round off the action ahead of this Sunday! Thank you all for joining us for this edition of Monday Night RAW, and I hope you’ll join us Sunday at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California for SummerSlam, where we’ve got an exciting line-up for you. Will Diesel continue his historic streak as the WWE Champion, or will Corey Graves cement his place in the new era? And what about Serena Deeb and Chelsea Green? Will we see a new queen at the top of the women’s division? You’ll have to tune in this weekend to find out! Thank you from all of us at the WWE, and good night!