Ruthless Aggression | A WWE Universe

[Xixak]

July 2005 | Week 1 | Nitro

Match #1: AJ Styles vs. Goldberg vs. Rob Van Dam vs. Scott Steiner | #1 Contender's Match
Fans were in shock to see the intro for WCW Monday Nitro playing instead of Monday Night RAW when the show kicked off. Eric Bischoff came out to announce that under his leadership the company would be rebranding as WCW and also ejecting a lot of the same old superstars that people are tired of seeing. The Rock, Stone Cold, Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Triple H and Undertaker among others had all been fired. Bischoff also announced that he didn't view The Hurricane as the type of guy to lead this brand forwards and set up a fatal 4-way number one contender match with the winner earning the right to face Hurricane for the title at Great American Bash. AJ Styles, Scott Steiner, Goldberg, and Rob Van Dam battled fiercely for the opportunity to challenge WCW World Heavyweight Champion Hurricane at the Great American Bash. The ring pulsated with intensity as each competitor showcased their unique skills. The climax arrived when AJ Styles seemed poised to secure victory, setting up for the Styles Clash on RVD. However, the unexpected twist unfolded when Goldberg, armed with a kendo stick, intervened with a brutal strike to AJ's back. Seizing the moment, Goldberg unleashed his signature Jackhammer on Styles, claiming the victory and securing the #1 contender spot. The announcement was made – Goldberg would face Hurricane for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship at the Great American Bash, promising a colossal clash between two titans in the quest for championship glory.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Goldberg by pinfall.

Match #2: Tomasso Ciampa vs. Robert Roode | One on One | United States Championship Qualifier
In a pivotal contest to determine the #1 contender for Umaga's US title at the Great American Bash, Tommaso Ciampa clashed with Robert Roode. The hard-fought battle saw both competitors leaving it all in the ring. The turning point arrived when Ciampa executed the Widow's Bell, a move of undeniable impact, securing the victory. With this decisive win, Tommaso Ciampa earned the first of three spots in the upcoming triple threat match. As the road to the Great American Bash unfolds, Ciampa stands one step closer to the coveted opportunity to challenge Umaga for the US title.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Tomasso Ciampa by pinfall.

Main Event: Booker T vs. Hulk Hogan | One on One
In a charged encounter between wrestling legends, Hulk Hogan faced Booker, the reigning Intercontinental Champion. Before the match began, Hogan extended a handshake as a gesture of sportsmanship. However, Booker, aware of recent news regarding Hogan's controversial racist remarks, vehemently refused the handshake, opting instead to slap Hogan in the face. The bell rang, and the match unfolded with palpable tension. In a shocking turn of events, Hogan secured the win by resorting to a poke to Booker's eye, followed by his iconic Leg Drop. Post-match, instead of celebrating, Hogan unleashed a brutal assault on Booker, wielding a steel chair as his weapon of choice. As Booker lay battered and vulnerable, Hogan delivered a scathing statement, declaring Booker unworthy of holding a championship and vowing to reclaim the Intercontinental Championship for what he deemed a "REAL American." The confrontation set the stage for a heated showdown at The Bash, promising a clash not just of physical prowess but of deeply rooted personal animosities.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Hulk Hogan by pinfall.

[Xixak]

WWE Reboot: Brand Split Returns in Dawn of New Era

August 2005 marked a seismic shift in the world of professional wrestling as WWE undertook a bold and unprecedented reboot following a ratings downturn. The reigning champion, The Hurricane, had been stripped of the title, symbolizing the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. Under the leadership of General Managers Eric Bischoff on RAW and Paul Heyman on Smackdown!, the landscape of WWE was destined for a revolutionary transformation.

The radical changes were evident from the outset. A draft took place, each GM meticulously curating a roster that would define the upcoming era. Bischoff, ever the mastermind behind WCW's success, opted to house the World Heavyweight Championship, United States Championship, and Women's Championship on RAW. Heyman, the visionary behind ECW's revolutionary spirit, secured the WWE Championship, Intercontinental Championship, and Light Heavyweight Championship for Smackdown!

Bischoff's main event division on RAW featured a star-studded ensemble of powerhouses and legendary figures, setting the stage for intense battles. Batista, the Animal, roared into the fray alongside the dominant Bobby Lashley, the unstoppable Goldberg, the Rated-R Superstar Edge, the immortal Hollywood Hogan, the cunning Randy Orton, the iconic Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels, and the cerebral game-changer Triple H.

The mid-card on RAW promised a mix of experience and emerging talent, with Booker T, Cody Rhodes, Jinder Mahal, the Big Red Machine Kane, the relentless Kevin Owens, the architect Seth 'Freakin' Rollins, the charismatic Shinsuke Nakamura, and the fierce Umaga. The women's division on RAW boasted an equally formidable lineup, featuring Asuka, Bayley, Bianca Belair, the Queen Charlotte Flair, the Ninth Wonder of the World Chyna, the trailblazing Lita, the powerhouse Rhea Ripley, and the legendary Trish Stratus.

Meanwhile, on Smackdown!, Heyman orchestrated a main event division that promised to be a collision of titans. The Eater of Worlds Bray Wyatt, the Beast Incarnate Brock Lesnar, the face of the company John Cena, the Olympic gold medalist Kurt Angle, the electrifying Rock, the Big Dog Roman Reigns, the Texas Rattlesnake Stone Cold Steve Austin, and the ominous Undertaker formed an ensemble that would redefine championship pursuits on the blue brand.

Heyman's mid-card on Smackdown! was equally compelling, with the phenomenal AJ Styles, the cunning Baron Corbin, the powerhouse Big E, the excellence of execution Bret "The Hitman" Hart, the emerging star Bron Breakker, the Scottish powerhouse Drew McIntyre, the enigmatic Gunther, and the high-flying Rob Van Dam.

The light heavyweight division on Smackdown! promised to be a showcase of agility and aerial prowess. Chad Gable, the dynamic Eddie Guerrero, the extraordinary Finn Balor, the polarizing Logan Paul, the acrobatic Ricochet, the luchador legend Rey Mysterio, the suave Santos Escobar, and the calculating Tommaso Ciampa formed a division that would redefine high-flying competition.

As the rosters took shape, the anticipation for the inaugural shows on the rebranded RAW and Smackdown! reached a fever pitch. The fans eagerly awaited the clash of titans and the emergence of new rivalries that would define this bold chapter in WWE history.

The narratives were compelling, and the first night of action was set to unveil a new era in professional wrestling. The seasoned warhorses and the rising stars alike were ready to prove themselves in a landscape reshaped by the visionaries Bischoff and Heyman. The reboot had arrived, and the battleground was primed for the clash of titans on the grand stage of the squared circle.

[Xixak]

RAW Announces World Heavyweight Championship; Women's Championship Qualifiers

As Eric Bischoff took control of RAW, he initiated a four-week qualifying series for the main event division, featuring marquee matchups between wrestling giants such as Batista, Lashley, Goldberg, Edge, Hogan, Orton, HBK, and HHH. The winners would earn spots in a fatal 4-way match at Summerslam, vying for the prestigious World Heavyweight Championship.

Simultaneously, Bischoff introduced an innovative approach to determining the co-#1 contenders for the vacant Women's Championship. Two fatal 4-way matches over the next two weeks would decide the contenders, with the winners facing off at Summerslam for the coveted title.

The United States Championship scene was not left out, with the quest for the #1 contender spot unfolding over the next shows. Umaga's hold on the title would face a challenge as superstars battled for the right to face the Samoan Bulldozer at Summerslam.

The anticipation was palpable as RAW transformed into a battleground of intense competition, unexpected twists, and high-stakes rivalries. Each week brought fans closer to the defining moments of this new era. The countdown to Summerslam promised a thrilling journey, with the main event, women's division, and United States Championship storylines converging for an unforgettable spectacle.

[Xixak]

August 2005 | Week 1 | RAW

Match #1: Bianca Belair vs. Asuka vs. Bayley vs. Charlotte Flair | Fatal 4-Way | Women's Championship #1 Contender
In a thrilling Fatal 4-Way match, Bayley emerged victorious over formidable opponents Asuka, Charlotte Flair, and Bianca Belair to secure a coveted spot in the Women's Championship match at Summerslam. The high-stakes bout showcased the incredible athleticism and resilience of all four competitors. As the match reached its crescendo, Bayley exhibited her strategic prowess, clearing the ring by sending Charlotte and Bianca over the top rope. With the field narrowed down, Bayley capitalized on the opportune moment, executing her signature move, the Bayley-to-Belly, on Asuka to clinch the hard-fought victory. Bayley's triumph not only solidified her place in the championship match at Summerslam but also served as a testament to her skill and determination in overcoming elite competition. The WWE Universe witnessed a memorable performance, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown as Bayley aimed to seize the Women's Championship at the grand event.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Bayley by pinfall.

Match #2: Hollywood Hogan vs. Edge | One on One | World Heavyweight Championship Qualifier
In a heated showdown between two wrestling legends, Hulk Hogan and The Rated R Superstar, Edge, the match took an unexpected turn that had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats. At the outset, Hogan asserted his dominance, showcasing the power and experience that defined his illustrious career. However, Edge, the master strategist, turned the tide by taking the battle outside the ring, nearly forcing a count-out against the aging yet resilient Hogan. The crafty maneuvers set the stage for a dramatic comeback, and as Hogan re-entered the ring, he found himself on the receiving end of a surprise Edgecution followed by a thunderous spear. Despite the setback, Hogan displayed his legendary resilience by kicking out, but the momentum had shifted. As the match progressed, Hogan went for his iconic Leg Drop, only to miss the mark, leaving him vulnerable. Seizing the opportunity, Edge delivered another devastating spear, securing the victory and earning the first spot in the upcoming Fatal 4-Way match for the World Heavyweight Championship. However, the Rated R Superstar wasn't content with just a victory. In a ruthless display, Edge went on to attack Hogan with a chair after the match, sending a clear message that he was not only aiming for championship glory but also looking to leave an indelible mark by dismantling one of the industry's most iconic figures. Edge's post-match assault added an extra layer of intensity to the unfolding saga, setting the stage for an explosive Fatal 4-Way clash at Summerslam.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Edge by pinfall.

Main Event: Booker T vs. Seth Rollins | One on One | United States Championship #1 Contender
Booker T was given a shot at the #1 contender spot for Umaga's title since he was stripped of the Intercontinental title as virtue of being drafted to RAW. He would face the eccentric Seth Rollins for the shot. As the match reached its climax, Booker T attempted to capitalize on his high-flying abilities by going for a high-risk maneuver off the top rope. However, the Architect, Seth Rollins, displayed his uncanny timing and agility, countering Booker's aerial assault with a perfectly executed Curb Stomp. The impact was devastating, and Rollins secured the pinfall, earning the right to challenge Umaga for the United States Championship. As Rollins celebrated his hard-fought victory, the atmosphere intensified when the reigning US Champion, Umaga, made his presence known. The Samoan Bulldozer confronted Seth Rollins head-on, raising the United States Championship in the air. The visual of Umaga asserting his dominance over the #1 contender set the stage for a fierce showdown between the two competitors. The confrontation at the end of RAW not only solidified Seth Rollins as the next challenger for the United States Championship but also heightened the anticipation for the impending clash with Umaga. The WWE Universe could feel the intensity escalating as Rollins and Umaga locked eyes, foreshadowing the explosive encounter that awaited them at the championship battleground.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Seth Rollins by pinfall.

[Xixak]

WWE Shakes Things Up: Brand Split Cancelled, Champions Reinstated

Title: WWE Shakes Things Up: Brand Split Cancelled, New Champions Crowned

In a surprising turn of events, WWE has decided to do away with the brand split, signaling a major shift in its programming strategy. Going forward, the company will consolidate its focus on the RAW brand, streamlining the competition and creating an environment of intense rivalry and unpredictability.

Two iconic figures in the wrestling world, Hurricane and Booker, have been reinstated as the Undisputed and Intercontinental Champions, respectively. The decision to bring back these seasoned champions adds a nostalgic touch while injecting fresh energy into the title scene.

The titles for the revamped RAW brand will include the Undisputed Championship, the Intercontinental Championship, the United States Championship, and the Women's Championship. This consolidation aims to elevate the prestige of each title and intensify the competition for the top spots.

The Undisputed Champion, Hurricane, will face an unprecedented challenge as he is forced to defend his title in a Battle Royal. This unique contest will feature heavyweight contenders such as Batista, John Cena, Randy Orton, Triple H, and The Undertaker. The stakes are higher than ever as these formidable superstars vie for the prestigious Undisputed Championship.

Meanwhile, the Intercontinental Championship will see a clash of generations as Booker steps into the ring with none other than the legendary Hulk Hogan. The matchup promises to be a spectacle, with the seasoned veteran Booker defending his title against one of the most iconic figures in wrestling history.

Dolph Ziggler, who earned his #1 contendership by defeating Booker in a hard-fought battle, will face the powerhouse Umaga for the United States Championship. The clash between Ziggler's technical prowess and Umaga's raw power adds a dynamic element to the championship picture, creating an intriguing narrative for the RAW brand.

The women's division has undergone a restructuring, featuring a formidable lineup of Beth Phoenix, Chyna, Eve Torres, Lita, Natalya, Nikki Bella, Stacy Keibler, and Trish Stratus. These talented women will engage in a high-stakes ladder match to determine the holder of the vacant Women's Championship. The ladder match format ensures a thrilling and unpredictable contest, where the competitors will reach new heights to claim the coveted title.

As WWE transitions to a single-brand approach, the landscape is ripe for unexpected alliances, fierce rivalries, and memorable moments. The cancellation of the brand split and the introduction of new champions and challenges mark the beginning of a fresh chapter in the storied history of professional wrestling. The RAW brand is set to deliver a rollercoaster of emotions, where every victory and defeat will carry greater significance in the quest for championship glory. The WWE Universe can anticipate a bold and exciting era as RAW takes center stage in the world of sports entertainment.

[Xixak]

August 2005 | PPV | Summerslam

Match #1: Beth Phoenix vs. Chyna vs. Eve Torres vs. Lita vs. Natalya vs. Nikki Bella vs. Stacy Keibler vs. Trish Stratus | Ladder | Women's Championship
In a riveting ladder match for the vacant Women's Championship on RAW, Natalya emerged victorious in a contest filled with high-flying action and dramatic moments. The formidable lineup, including Beth Phoenix, Chyna, Eve Torres, Lita, Nikki Bella, Stacy Keibler, and Trish Stratus, delivered a show-stopping performance. The match witnessed awe-inspiring displays of athleticism, with high-risk maneuvers and daring leaps off the ladders adding to the intensity. Trish Stratus and Nikki Bella engaged in a fierce one-on-one battle atop a ladder, showcasing their determination to secure the championship. Stacy Keibler surprised everyone with her agility, executing a breathtaking hurricanrana from the top rope. As the competitors fought tooth and nail, Natalya demonstrated her technical prowess, countering power moves with precision. A pivotal moment came when Lita attempted a daring moonsault from a ladder but was intercepted by Beth Phoenix mid-air. The crowd roared as Chyna and Beth Phoenix engaged in a clash of powerhouses, each vying for supremacy. In the closing moments, Natalya seized the opportunity, strategically placing the ladder beneath the title. With resilience and cunning, she ascended the ladder unopposed, reaching for the championship and securing her place in history as the new Women's Champion. Natalya's triumph in this electrifying ladder match marked a defining moment in her career and set the tone for an exciting era in the RAW women's division.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Natalya by ladder.

Match #2: Dolph Ziggler vs. Umaga (c) | One on One | United States Championship
In a stunning upset on RAW, Dolph Ziggler dethroned the powerhouse Umaga to claim the United States Championship, ending the Samoan Bulldozer's impressive 8-month reign. The bout showcased Ziggler's resilience as he weathered Umaga's brutal onslaught, countering with a mix of speed and cunning. The turning point came when Ziggler executed a jaw-dropping dropkick off the top rope, staggering the champion. Seizing the opportunity, Ziggler delivered a Zig Zag. He got greedy and went for a second one though and was met with a Samoan Spike as Umaga extended his 8 month reign as champion.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Umaga by pinfall.

Match #3: Booker T (c) vs. Hulk Hogan | No Holds Barred | Intercontinental Championship
In a historic No Holds Barred match for the Intercontinental Championship, Booker T faced Hulk Hogan in a bout that transcended the boundaries of sports entertainment. The match carried profound significance as Booker aimed to overcome the shadow of Hogan's controversial past, confronting the issue of racism head-on. In a relentless back-and-forth, both legends unleashed everything in their arsenal, with the Intercontinental Championship hanging in the balance. Booker T, fueled by a determination to eradicate the stain of racism, summoned the strength to overcome Hogan's resilience. The turning point came when Booker executed a spine-tingling Harlem Hangover, connecting with precision. As the referee's hand slapped the mat for the three-count, the victory wasn't just about the Intercontinental Championship; it symbolized the triumph of justice over prejudice. With the win, Booker T retired Hogan, sending a powerful message that intolerance had no place in the wrestling world. This symbolic victory marked the end of Hogan's tenure in the company, paving the way for a new era defined by inclusivity and progress.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Booker T by pinfall.

Main Event: Edge vs. Randy Orton vs. Triple H vs. Hurricane (c) vs. Batista vs. John Cena | Battle Royal | Undisputed Championship
The Hurricane faced a ridiculously tough test here in his first title defense, having to take on five of the top stars in the company in a Battle Royal. Things started off with all six guys focused more on inflicting pain to each other than throwing anyone over the top. That changed though when Edge took advantage of a distracted Cena, throwing him out over the top corner to get the first elimination. Not long after Orton nearly eliminated Hurricane, but he hung on acrobatically to save himself. Those heroics proved futile though as Orton tried to throw him over as soon as he got back in, but this time HHH, who had also lost the Triple Threat match for the Undisputed title to Hurricane at Night of Champions, helped him as the two teamed up to send Hurricane over the top rope, end his title reign and confirm a new champion would be crowned in the match. Shortly later, Edge ducked out of the way of a Batista Spear using his momentum against him to send him out over the top rope. And then Orton and HHH who had returned to being enemies, brawled, with Orton winning out with an RKO before tossing HHH's corpse over. Orton had made the mistake of turning his back on Edge though, as the Ultimate Opportunist ran over to him and threw him over to win his first World Championship since defeating Brock Lesnar for the World Heavyweight title back at Wrestlemania XIX.

► Show Spoiler

Winner: Edge by elimination.

[Xixak]

.

[Xixak]

Complete reboot inbound

[Xixak]

Bump 1.

[Xixak]

Bump 2.