Episode 1050 (Sioux City, IA) - Recap
<-- Previous EpisodeNext Episode -->We open on Vickie Guerrero, welcoming viewers to Raw from backstage. Guerrero says that tonight, both the World Heavyweight Championship and the WWE Championship will be honored. Tonight, it's Alberto del Rio vs. John Cena! Champion vs. Champion!!
In the arena, "Ride of the Valkyries" hits and Daniel Bryan makes his way to the ring with a smile on his face. There's a Money in the Bank briefcase hanging above the ring with a ladder beneath, hyping the upcoming Money in the Bank ladder matches on pay-per-view.
Bryan is wearing a new "Respect the Beard" t-shirt. Bryan says that last week he made Randy Orton tap out in the middle of the ring, proving that he is not the Weak Link. But there's a new question: can Bryan ride this wave of momentum and win the upcoming WWE All-Stars match? The crowd chants "YES! YES! YES!" Bryan wants to be WWE Champion; he wants to follow in the footsteps of Bruno Sammartino, Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin and The Rock. Why not Daniel Bryan? Two years ago he won a Money in the Bank ladder match and cashed in to win the World Heavyweight Championship. Just because this is an All-Star Money in the Bank match doesn't mean he won't win it.
"Too Many Lies" hits and a smiling Sheamus makes his way to the ring. Sheamus reminds Bryan how his World Championship reign ended... with Sheamus beating him for the World Title in 18 seconds at Wrestlemania 28! Sheamus tells Bryan that no one is going to stand in his way of winning the MitB ladder match. The crowd is firmly on Bryan's side.
Suddenly, Randy Orton takes the stage, reminding both men that it has been two years since he's been a champion. He says he isn't just hungry, he's starving and he's going to take what he needs. Orton enters the ring and says he's going to win the Money in the Bank All-Stars match.
Next, the stage bursts into flames as Daniel Bryan's former Tag Team partner Kane makes his way to the ring. Kane says he's the most ruthless man in the history of the WWE and he will commit unspeakable acts against his opponents--including Bryan. Kane says it's every man for himself: no partners, no friends, only victims. Bryan and Kane bicker over who's going to be WWE Champion... until Christian interrupts on stage.
Christian reminds them that he has more ladder match experience than anyone else in the All-Stars ladder match. He said he's looking for One More Match for the WWE Championship and he's going to take the contract. Christian says that he's not the biggest, strongest, scariest... or hairiest guy in this match, but he is the best.
Next, CM Punk comes out. He entered because he heard Christian say "best." Punk says that he respects Christian but Punk is the best in the world and he's the only man in history who has won two Money in the Bank ladder matches. Punk reminds us that Rob Van Dam is returning for this All-Stars match.
Bryan repeats how he made Orton tap out and Orton charges Bryan--but Kane steps in to protect him. Bryan shouts at Kane for trying to fight his battles before Orton spins Kane and drops him with a big RKO! The remaining competitors stare each other down as "I Hear Voices" plays through the arena.
Cole hypes up the World Heavyweight Champion vs WWE Champion non-title match tonight. We're going to take a look at some of the greatest World Champions in history, beginning with a vignette on former WWE Champion Buddy Rogers. Next is a vignette about former World Heavyweight Champion Lou Thesz.
We get another promotional video for the Wyatt family. "I play with these fools like puppets!"
Back in the arena, we're reminded of the ongoing feud between The Usos and the Tag Team Champions, The Shield. The Shield are in-ring with their titles when "Just Close Your Eyes" hits and Christian makes his way to the ring, ready for action.
Next, The Usos come out to their haka and join their partner, Christian.
MATCH ONE: Christian & The Usos vs United States & Tag Team Champions, The Shield
Seth Rollins and Jimmy Uso kick off the match and the Usos are fired up. Rollins tags in Dean Ambrose but Christian gets tagged in and goes to work on the US Champion. Ambrose and Christian trade shots until Ambrose rolls out for a breather. The Tag Team champions join him outside... when the Usos both hit suicide planchas onto Rollins and Reigns! Then Christian follows with a slingshot plancha onto Ambrose on the floor!! The Shield are down and the babyfaces celebrate in ring as we go to commercial.
Back from the break, Ambrose as Jey Uso pinned in the corner. He tags Rollins as Jey tries to fight his way to his corner. Ambrose gets tagged back in as Rollins & Ambrose hit a big double-team suplex. Ambrose locks in a step-over ankle-hook with a face-lock and keeps wearing Uso down. Ambrose tags in Reigns, who hits a huge side-suplex on Uso for a nearfall. Ambrose gets in ring and begins mocking Christian... until Jey Uso hits a superkick to Ambrose's face! Rollins is tagged in and he and Jey take each other out. Jey tags Christian, who begins lighting up his offense against Rollins with a missile dropkick. Rollins tags in Ambrose and Christian hits a reverse DDT! Reigns breaks up Christian's pin attempt and Jimmy Uso takes Reigns to the outside. Christian goes for a springboard Flashpoint, but Rollins cuts him off and hot-shots Christian off the top rope! Ambrose, the legal man, gets the roll-up for a three count!
WINNERS: The Tag Team and United States Champions, The Shield.
"Hounds of Justice" plays as The Shield celebrate.
In the back, Kane is angry about the RKO. Bryan apologizes about what happened and says he talked to Vickie Guerrero: he got Kane a rematch against Randy Orton tonight! Kane thanks his old buddy... until Bryan tells him that he'll be the special guest referee!
"I'm Here to Show the World" hits and Dolph Ziggler enters to a nice pop. This is Ziggler's first match since losing the World Championship against Alberto del Rio at WWE Payback. The #1 Contender for the World Championship is set for action! Back from commercial and 3MB are in ring.
MATCH TWO: Jinder Mahal w/ 3MB vs Dolph Ziggler.
Mahal goes on the offensive as the crowd chants for Ziggler. Ziggler scores a take-down with a float-over. Mahal reverses a take-down and hits a huge running knee to Ziggler's face. Mahal hits a beautiful double-underhook suplex for a nearfall. Mahal drops knees on Ziggler until Ziggler reverses a charge and hits a picture-perfect dropkick. Ziggler hits a huge Zig-Zag for the 1,2,3!
WINNER: Dolph Ziggler
Ziggler's music plays as Heath Slater and Drew McIntyre surround Ziggler in the ring. Dolph uses his quickness to escape and hits a Zig-Zag on McIntyre on the floor! Ziggler celebrates on top of the announce table and the crowd loves it.
We see a vignette for the longest-reigning WWE Champion in history, Bruno Sammartino. Next, a video package airs for former World Heavyweight Champion, Harley Race.
Backstage, Guerrero is with Brad Maddox and HHH interrupts as she was mocking the McMahon family. HHH tells her she is doing a great job by giving the WWE Universe what they want. HHH reminds Guerrero to always do what he says.
"I Hear Voices" plays through the arena and Randy Orton makes his way to the ring for his match against Kane.
MATCH THREE: Randy Orton vs Kane; Special Guest Referee: Daniel Bryan
Bryan is wearing zebra stripes, lecturing Orton in-ring. "Inferno" hits and Kane makes his way to the ring. Bryan rings the bell and both men go to work on each other. Bryan continually interjects himself into the match-up. Cole reminds that all three of these men will be in the Money in the Bank All-Stars match; it'll be Kane's seventh time in a Money in the Bank ladder match, having won once.
Orton lays in the Garvin Stomps on Kane and the crowd is behind The Viper. Orton stares down Bryan and hits a jumping knee-drop for a nearfall.
Kane fights back with right hands and hits a snap suplex on Orton. Kane hits a succession of elbow drops onto a fallen Orton. Kane chokes Orton on the ropes and stomps away on the Apex Predator. Orton rolls to the outside and Bryan begins to count him out. Kane pursues and tosses Orton back in the ring. Orton turns the tables on Kane and begins to hammer away on the big man in the corner with a standing 10-punch. Bryan pulls Orton from the ropes and Orton shoves him... and Bryan disqualifies Orton!
WINNER: Kane
But wait!
Kane argues that Bryan should re-start the match, even though Kane won. Bryan gives in and has the match re-started.
Kane goes back to work on Orton as the crowd chants for Bryan. Kane hits huge running clotheslines on Orton, followed by a side-slam. Kane heads up to the top rope... he leaps into a mid-air dropkick counter from Orton! Both men are down!
Orton is first to his feet and he begins rolling, hitting a power-scoop-slam on the Big Red Machine. Kane goozles Orton but Orton reverses into his chin-lock backbreaker. Then Orton hits the hanging-rope DDT! The crowd chants "RKO! RKO!" Orton hypes the crowd and sets up for the RKO... when Bryan gets in Orton's way! Orton pushes Bryan out of the way and walks into a big boot from Kane--and Bryan does a fast count!
WINNER, again: Kane
Kane complains about the fast count and he and Bryan bicker. Kane goozles Bryan to a huge pop from the crowd... but he lets go of Bryan and heads to the back. Bryan watches Kane leave... then turns around into an RKO from Orton!
"I Hear Voices" plays and Orton is furious over the loss.
Backstage, Paul Heyman and the Intercontinental Champion Curtis Axel are talking to CM Punk. Punk says that he will defeat the Prime-Time Players by himself and Axel need only watch. Heyman doesn't understand the hostility coming from Punk. Punk says he trusts Heyman but he doesn't trust Curtis Axel. Heyman says that if Punk trusts Heyman then he should trust him when he says that Axel is worthy of Punk's trust as well.
A vignette plays for former WWE Champion Bob Backlund. Next up, a vignette for former World Heavyweight Champion, The American Dream, Dusty Rhodes.
Back from commercial and Fandango's ballroom theme hits and Fandango makes his return from injury! Fandango dances on stage with his valet, who JBL calls Mrs. Fandango. Her name is actually Summer Rae. This is Fandango's first match since the beginning of June. Cole reminds us that Fandango will be making his first appearance in a Money in the Bank ladder match for the World Heavyweight Championship contract at the pay-per-view.
Fandango shouts his name to the audience as his valet does the splits mid-ring.
"Too Many Lies" hits and Sheamus' music hits. The Irishman enters to some unexpected booing.
MATCH FOUR: Sheamus vs Fandango w/ Summer Rae
The ref rings the bell as Fandango struts in a circle around the ring. He ducks Sheamus' first strike and dances in the corner. Fandango dodges Sheamus a second time and dances some more. The crowd is getting on Fandango now. Third attempted lock-up and Sheamus ducks... and now Sheamus dances to a big pop! Sheamus lays into Fandango in the corner and drops him with a big clothesline, followed by a vertical suplex for a nearfall. The crowd is chanting for the beautiful Summer Rae.
Fandango turns the tables and goes to work on Sheamus. Sheamus isn't down for long, as he hits a shoulder block and a running knee-lift. Fandango heads to the outside and Sheamus pursues, throwing Fandango into the barricade. As Sheamus tries to pull Fandango back into the ring, Fandango hits a high kick to Sheamus' skull. Fandango follows up with a Pele kick for a nearfall. Sheamus is dazed and on the ropes. Fandango hammers away on Sheamus as duelling chants for both men break out in the crowd. Fandango holds an arm-hook and collar tie-up as Sheamus fights his way back to his feet. Fandango keeps up the pressure with a rear chin-lock. Cole runs down Sheamus' accolades: WWE Champion, World Champion, King of the Ring... this would be a huge win for Fandango. Just then, Sheamus turns the tables and wraps Fandago in the ropes and clubs his chest for a ten-count. Fandango spills to the outside and retreats up the ramp with Summer Rae. The ref counts Fandango out and Sheamus gets the win!
WINNER: Sheamus
Fandango gets booed as he heads to the back, running from the Celtic Warrior.
Back from commercial and Chris Jericho enters and joins the announce table, wishing all the viewers a happy Canada Day. "Feed Me More" hits and Ryback marches to the ring, looking determined. Ryback will face off with Chris Jericho at the Money in the Bank pay-per-view.
"I Came to Play" hits and The Miz enters to face off with Ryback.
MATCH FIVE: The Miz vs Ryback
Jericho notes that Ryback has been showing weakness lately. Jericho calls him Cryback. As soon as the match begins, The Miz goes after Ryback's knee. Ryback tweaked his knee last week.
Ryback gets angry and goes on the offensive against Miz. He hits a few throws and Miz is reeling. Ryback slams Miz to the mat repeatedly and shouts "You see that, Chris?" to Jericho.
Ryback stomps The Miz on the mat and hammers away on his face. Miz kicks Ryback in the head twice but Ryback lays him back down with a shoulder-block. Miz tries to fight back from his knees but Ryback cuts him off and drops several knees. Ryback taunts Jericho some more.
Ryback is pounding Miz' chest on the outside, dominating him. Back in the ring, Miz keeps trying to fight back and keeps getting cut off. Ryback is toying with Miz and Miz gets angry. Miz unloads with left hands and hits a gunpacket dropkick to Ryback's injured leg! Miz hits his running clothesline on Ryback in the corner, following with a dropping knee-bar, hyper-extending the knee. Miz stretches the knee over the middle rope... then charges with a dropkick to the knee! Ryback is holding his injured knee and begs the ref to stop the match! Ryback forfeits!
WINNER: The Miz
Miz looks confused as Ryback limps to his feet. Jericho charges the ring and Ryback turns around into a Codebreaker! Jericho's music plays after The Miz picks up a big win, heading into his Intercontinental Championship match against Curtis Axel at Money in the Bank.
We're offered a vignette of former WWE Champion Hulk Hogan. Then, we see a package for former World Heavyweight Champion Ric Flair.
"Somebody Gonna Get Dey Ass Kicked" hits and Mark Henry takes the stage with a microphone. Henry says he earned the title of World's Strongest Man. Henry represented the USA at two Summer Olympic games. He's been in the WWE for seventeen years, winning the ECW Championship and the World Heavyweight Championship... but never the WWE Championship. Henry says that he has earned this opportunity and he's taking it. Henry says that he's sick of doing the right thing for the business. He deserves to be WWE Champion. We're all going to admit that he earned it. Henry looks into the camera: "John Cena? At Money in the Bank, I'm gonna beat yo' ass!"
Backstage, Maddox and Vickie are greeted by Mr. McMahon. He says that he doesn't like Daniel Bryan and he wants Guerrero to listen to him. McMahon says Stephanie and HHH don't understand the business. He says Vickie doesn't understand--that's why she's giving away Champion vs Champion for free, when it should be on pay-per-view. McMahon says they need to do what he says.
Back from commercial and "Cult of Personality" hits and CM Punk enters to a huge pop! "Perfect Son" follows and the Intercontinental Champion, Curtis Axel enters with Paul Heyman.
The Primetime Players are in-ring, ready for tag team action.
MATCH SIX: The Primetime Players vs CM Punk & Intercontinental Champion Curtis Axel w/ Paul Heyman.
Punk starts the match as the crowd chants his name--then Axel tags himself in by slapping Punk's back. Axel and Darren Young lock it up. Axel hits a nice arm-drag and Punk demands he be tagged in. Axel ignores Punk and continues the assault on Young. Axel lights up Young with chops in the corner. He drops Young with a clothesline and again Axel refuses to tag in Punk. Young tags in O'Neil and Titus locks up with Axel as the crowd chants "We Want Punk!"
Axel lands a dropkick on O'Neil and Axel refuses to tag Punk again--and eats a huge lariat from Titus. The Big Deal hits a big throw on Axel and tags in Young for a double-team.
Young and O'Neil hammer away at Axel in the corner. O'Neil locks a stretch on Axel as Axel tries to fight out. O'Neil hits a big slam and mocks Punk in the corner. Axel hits a big boot and crawls to Punk... and makes the tag! Punk enters with a springboard crossbody on Young, followed by a swinging neck-breaker. Punk hits his running knee in the corner and goes up top... elbow drop from the top rope! Punk calls for the Go 2 Sleep and connects! Axel tags Punk on the back and covers the prone Darren Young for the three-count! Punk is annoyed that Axel stole the victory.
WINNERS: CM Punk and the Intercontinental Champion, Curtis Axel
Punk argues with Heyman before storming off in a rage. Axel celebrates in ring.
We're offered a vignette for former WWE Champion Steve Austin, followed by a video for former World Heavyweight Champion Sting.
Back from commercial and Alicia Fox is in the ring, ready for action. Kaitlyn enters with Layla El.
MATCH SEVEN: Alicia Fox vs Kaitlyn, w/ Layla El
Fox shoves Kaitlyn against the ropes. Kaitlyn gets angry and drops Fox with a short-arm clothesline. Kaitlyn goes for a jackknife cover for a nearfall and Fox bounces back with a dropkick for a nearfall of her own. Fox charges Kaitlyn in the corner and Kaitlyn fights out. Fox lands a nice Northern Lights suplex for a nearfall. Fox misses a rolling legdrop and Kaitlyn hits a spear out of nowhere for the win!
WINNER: Kaitlyn
Suddenly, "Light it Up" hits and Divas Champion A.J. Lee comes out with a microphone and Big E Langston.
Lee calls Kaitlyn "Katie KaBoom." Lee calls Kaitlyn trash and brings up some unsavoury modelling photos Kaitlyn took before she joined the WWE. Lee shows a photo with Kaitlyn's face superimposed on a large woman's body. Lee says that Kaitlyn will lose her rematch at Money in the Bank and go right back to those old days.
Backstage, Guerrero and Maddox are talking when Stephanie McMahon enters. Stephanie is upset because she asked Vickie to handle the AJ Lee situation and Vickie didn't listen. Vickie says she's trying to do everything that all of the McMahon family members are asking but she's losing her mind. Stephanie says she understand and wants to help Vickie. Vickie says that Mr McMahon and HHH are a little crazy and Stephanie doesn't take kindly to it. Stephanie says that Vickie deserves straightforward guidance... next week on Raw, there will be a public job evaluation for Vickie Guerrero.
A video package airs hyping the return of Mr Monday Night, Rob Van Dam!
"Smoke and Mirrors" hits and Cody Rhodes makes his way to the ring, accompanied by Damian Sandow in a suit. Sandow takes the microphone and says that in two weeks, both he and Rhodes--his best friend--will compete against each other in the Money in the Bank ladder match for the World Championship contract. Rhodes says that they are men of character and no competition can come between them.
Antonio Cesaro enters with Zeb Colter. Colter asks America to wake up. Colter says America has been stolen from Americans by illegal immigrants. Colter says that the institution of marriage is under attack. Colter says that he and Cesaro are not alone in their fight: a Real American has returned! Jack Swagger makes his return, joining Colter and Cesaro. Both Cesaro and Swagger will compete in the Money in the Bank ladder match with Sandow and Rhodes. Colter says you're either with them or you're against them.
MATCH EIGHT: Antonio Cesaro, w/ Zeb Colter and Jack Swagger, vs Cody Rhodes, w/ Damian Sandow
In the ring, Cesaro and Rhodes lock up and Rhodes goes for a takedown. Cesaro grabs a gutwrench and throws Rhodes with a big suplex. The crowd is chanting "We the People." Rhodes runs the ropes and hits a falling uppercut, shades of his daddy, The American Dream. Rhodes goes for a sunset flip but Cesaro stomps him. Rhodes gets a nearfall with his feet on the ropes and Cesaro knocks Rhodes to the outside with an uppercut. Rhodes hotshots Cesaro off the top rope. Rhodes goes for a backslide but Cesaro reverses into the Neutralizer for the win!
WINNER: Antonio Cesaro
Sandow was talking to the announce table when Rhodes lost and he looks frustrated with Rhodes in the ring.
We get a video package for former WWE Champion and current COO of the WWE, HHH. Next, we see a video for the former World Heavyweight Champion, Booker T.
Backstage, the Bella Twins are greeting members of the E! Total Divas cast. They talk to new divas until the Funkadactyls and Natalya come to argue with the Bellas. Natalya tells off the Bellas and Nikki says that the Bellas are the reason that divas are getting attention.
We see another video for the Wyatt family. They're debuting next week on Raw!
Alberto del Rio's music hits and the World Heavyweight Champion makes his way to the ring. Cole explains that his personal ring announcer, Ricardo Rodriguez, was injured by Dolph Ziggler's attack on Smackdown and isn't by the Champion's side.
"My Time is Now" hits and the WWE Champion, John Cena charges the ring!
MATCH NINE: World Heavyweight Champion, Alberto del Rio vs WWE Champion, John Cena
Roberts introduces both men in-ring, giving this a big-match feel. The ref rings the bell and the champion vs champion match is on!
Del Rio starts on the offense, locking a headlock and landing a takedown. The crowd is chanting for Cena as the WWE Champion leapfrogs del Rio and lands a headlock takeover of his own. Del Rio tosses Cena off and hits a hip toss and trash talks Cena. They lock up again and Cena goes for the Attitude Adjustment early, but del Rio escapes and heads out to the floor for a breather.
Del Rio returns to the ring and we lock it up again. Del Rio lands stiff kicks to Cena's thigh, dropping Cena in the corner. Del Rio lands a running kick for a nearfall. Del Rio goes for a vertical suplex, but Cena blocks it and hits a fisherman's suplex of his own!
Cena hits a running bulldog and del Rio is reeling in the corner. Cena misses a running shoulderblock and eats the steel ringpost. Del Rio is pleased.
On the outside, del Rio goes to work on Cena and throws him into the steel steps. Cena is sent back into the ring and del Rio ascends the ropes and hits a big clubbing blow for a nearfall.
Del Rio stomps Cena on the mat. Del Rio charges Cena but Cena dodges the running dropkick and del Rio spills to the floor hard!
Back from commercial and del Rio has a chin-lock on Cena. Cena fights out with power but del Rio kicks him in the gut and throws Cena on the back of his head. Del Rio ascends the ropes again... and Cena catches him mid-air with a dropkick to the midsection!
Cena starts rolling but del Rio ducks the second shoulder-tackle and del Rio hits a baseball slide and Cena hits the floor on the outside. The ref counts for Cena as del Rio gloats in ring. Cena hotshots del Rio off the top rope and goes back to the shoulder-blocks. Del Rio reverses Cena's back suplex and hits a backstabber for a nearfall! Del Rio is calling for the cross-armbreaker. Cena reverses and hits his spinning side suplex and calls for the five-knuckle shuffle!
The shuffle hits and del Rio gets out of the AA and hits a beautiful German suplex on Cena for a nearfall. Back and forth action and Cena is down.
Del Rio charges for a kick to the head, but Cena catches him in a belly-to-belly suplex for a nearfall of his own. Cena starts climbing the ropes and del Rio cuts him off with a running shining wizard! But Cena still kicks out! Del Rio is frustrated and tries another kick. Cena ducks and goes for the STF; del Rio wriggles out and catches Cena with a massive tilt-a-whirl backbreaker for another nearfall! Both men are exhausted.
Del Rio hangs Cena in the tree of woe and kicks him in the head. Del Rio charges and Cena pulls himself up as del Rio eats turnbuckle. From the top rope, Cena hits a beautiful cross-body! Del Rio kicks out!
Both men struggle to their feet and Cena lifts for the Attitute Adjustment; del Rio slips out and applies the cross-armbreaker; Cena rolls through and locks in the STF!! So many reversals!
Del Rio is struggling in the STF... and here comes Mark Henry down the ramp. Cena releases the hold to get ready for Henry... but Henry just walks calmly to the ringside. Del Rio kicks Cena in the head for a nearfall! Ziggler appears on the apron and distracts del Rio! Cena catches del Rio for the AA and the win!!
WINNER: The WWE Champion, John Cena.
Cena's music plays as Mark Henry looks frustrated and Dolph Ziggler looks pleased.
Henry grabs the WWE Title from ringside and comes into the ring. Cena stares down the World's Strongest Man. Henry spooks Cena and laughs at him, before dropping the WWE Title at Cena's feet. Henry goes to attack Cena when Cena bends down, but Cena is prepared. The men stare each other down until Henry exits the ring. Henry taps his wrist, indicating that Cena's time is running out.
To close out the show, we get one last vignette for the Wyatt Family. They're debuting next week!
In the arena, "Ride of the Valkyries" hits and Daniel Bryan makes his way to the ring with a smile on his face. There's a Money in the Bank briefcase hanging above the ring with a ladder beneath, hyping the upcoming Money in the Bank ladder matches on pay-per-view.
Bryan is wearing a new "Respect the Beard" t-shirt. Bryan says that last week he made Randy Orton tap out in the middle of the ring, proving that he is not the Weak Link. But there's a new question: can Bryan ride this wave of momentum and win the upcoming WWE All-Stars match? The crowd chants "YES! YES! YES!" Bryan wants to be WWE Champion; he wants to follow in the footsteps of Bruno Sammartino, Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin and The Rock. Why not Daniel Bryan? Two years ago he won a Money in the Bank ladder match and cashed in to win the World Heavyweight Championship. Just because this is an All-Star Money in the Bank match doesn't mean he won't win it.
"Too Many Lies" hits and a smiling Sheamus makes his way to the ring. Sheamus reminds Bryan how his World Championship reign ended... with Sheamus beating him for the World Title in 18 seconds at Wrestlemania 28! Sheamus tells Bryan that no one is going to stand in his way of winning the MitB ladder match. The crowd is firmly on Bryan's side.
Suddenly, Randy Orton takes the stage, reminding both men that it has been two years since he's been a champion. He says he isn't just hungry, he's starving and he's going to take what he needs. Orton enters the ring and says he's going to win the Money in the Bank All-Stars match.
Next, the stage bursts into flames as Daniel Bryan's former Tag Team partner Kane makes his way to the ring. Kane says he's the most ruthless man in the history of the WWE and he will commit unspeakable acts against his opponents--including Bryan. Kane says it's every man for himself: no partners, no friends, only victims. Bryan and Kane bicker over who's going to be WWE Champion... until Christian interrupts on stage.
Christian reminds them that he has more ladder match experience than anyone else in the All-Stars ladder match. He said he's looking for One More Match for the WWE Championship and he's going to take the contract. Christian says that he's not the biggest, strongest, scariest... or hairiest guy in this match, but he is the best.
Next, CM Punk comes out. He entered because he heard Christian say "best." Punk says that he respects Christian but Punk is the best in the world and he's the only man in history who has won two Money in the Bank ladder matches. Punk reminds us that Rob Van Dam is returning for this All-Stars match.
Bryan repeats how he made Orton tap out and Orton charges Bryan--but Kane steps in to protect him. Bryan shouts at Kane for trying to fight his battles before Orton spins Kane and drops him with a big RKO! The remaining competitors stare each other down as "I Hear Voices" plays through the arena.
Cole hypes up the World Heavyweight Champion vs WWE Champion non-title match tonight. We're going to take a look at some of the greatest World Champions in history, beginning with a vignette on former WWE Champion Buddy Rogers. Next is a vignette about former World Heavyweight Champion Lou Thesz.
We get another promotional video for the Wyatt family. "I play with these fools like puppets!"
Back in the arena, we're reminded of the ongoing feud between The Usos and the Tag Team Champions, The Shield. The Shield are in-ring with their titles when "Just Close Your Eyes" hits and Christian makes his way to the ring, ready for action.
Next, The Usos come out to their haka and join their partner, Christian.
MATCH ONE: Christian & The Usos vs United States & Tag Team Champions, The Shield
Seth Rollins and Jimmy Uso kick off the match and the Usos are fired up. Rollins tags in Dean Ambrose but Christian gets tagged in and goes to work on the US Champion. Ambrose and Christian trade shots until Ambrose rolls out for a breather. The Tag Team champions join him outside... when the Usos both hit suicide planchas onto Rollins and Reigns! Then Christian follows with a slingshot plancha onto Ambrose on the floor!! The Shield are down and the babyfaces celebrate in ring as we go to commercial.
Back from the break, Ambrose as Jey Uso pinned in the corner. He tags Rollins as Jey tries to fight his way to his corner. Ambrose gets tagged back in as Rollins & Ambrose hit a big double-team suplex. Ambrose locks in a step-over ankle-hook with a face-lock and keeps wearing Uso down. Ambrose tags in Reigns, who hits a huge side-suplex on Uso for a nearfall. Ambrose gets in ring and begins mocking Christian... until Jey Uso hits a superkick to Ambrose's face! Rollins is tagged in and he and Jey take each other out. Jey tags Christian, who begins lighting up his offense against Rollins with a missile dropkick. Rollins tags in Ambrose and Christian hits a reverse DDT! Reigns breaks up Christian's pin attempt and Jimmy Uso takes Reigns to the outside. Christian goes for a springboard Flashpoint, but Rollins cuts him off and hot-shots Christian off the top rope! Ambrose, the legal man, gets the roll-up for a three count!
WINNERS: The Tag Team and United States Champions, The Shield.
"Hounds of Justice" plays as The Shield celebrate.
In the back, Kane is angry about the RKO. Bryan apologizes about what happened and says he talked to Vickie Guerrero: he got Kane a rematch against Randy Orton tonight! Kane thanks his old buddy... until Bryan tells him that he'll be the special guest referee!
"I'm Here to Show the World" hits and Dolph Ziggler enters to a nice pop. This is Ziggler's first match since losing the World Championship against Alberto del Rio at WWE Payback. The #1 Contender for the World Championship is set for action! Back from commercial and 3MB are in ring.
MATCH TWO: Jinder Mahal w/ 3MB vs Dolph Ziggler.
Mahal goes on the offensive as the crowd chants for Ziggler. Ziggler scores a take-down with a float-over. Mahal reverses a take-down and hits a huge running knee to Ziggler's face. Mahal hits a beautiful double-underhook suplex for a nearfall. Mahal drops knees on Ziggler until Ziggler reverses a charge and hits a picture-perfect dropkick. Ziggler hits a huge Zig-Zag for the 1,2,3!
WINNER: Dolph Ziggler
Ziggler's music plays as Heath Slater and Drew McIntyre surround Ziggler in the ring. Dolph uses his quickness to escape and hits a Zig-Zag on McIntyre on the floor! Ziggler celebrates on top of the announce table and the crowd loves it.
We see a vignette for the longest-reigning WWE Champion in history, Bruno Sammartino. Next, a video package airs for former World Heavyweight Champion, Harley Race.
Backstage, Guerrero is with Brad Maddox and HHH interrupts as she was mocking the McMahon family. HHH tells her she is doing a great job by giving the WWE Universe what they want. HHH reminds Guerrero to always do what he says.
"I Hear Voices" plays through the arena and Randy Orton makes his way to the ring for his match against Kane.
MATCH THREE: Randy Orton vs Kane; Special Guest Referee: Daniel Bryan
Bryan is wearing zebra stripes, lecturing Orton in-ring. "Inferno" hits and Kane makes his way to the ring. Bryan rings the bell and both men go to work on each other. Bryan continually interjects himself into the match-up. Cole reminds that all three of these men will be in the Money in the Bank All-Stars match; it'll be Kane's seventh time in a Money in the Bank ladder match, having won once.
Orton lays in the Garvin Stomps on Kane and the crowd is behind The Viper. Orton stares down Bryan and hits a jumping knee-drop for a nearfall.
Kane fights back with right hands and hits a snap suplex on Orton. Kane hits a succession of elbow drops onto a fallen Orton. Kane chokes Orton on the ropes and stomps away on the Apex Predator. Orton rolls to the outside and Bryan begins to count him out. Kane pursues and tosses Orton back in the ring. Orton turns the tables on Kane and begins to hammer away on the big man in the corner with a standing 10-punch. Bryan pulls Orton from the ropes and Orton shoves him... and Bryan disqualifies Orton!
WINNER: Kane
But wait!
Kane argues that Bryan should re-start the match, even though Kane won. Bryan gives in and has the match re-started.
Kane goes back to work on Orton as the crowd chants for Bryan. Kane hits huge running clotheslines on Orton, followed by a side-slam. Kane heads up to the top rope... he leaps into a mid-air dropkick counter from Orton! Both men are down!
Orton is first to his feet and he begins rolling, hitting a power-scoop-slam on the Big Red Machine. Kane goozles Orton but Orton reverses into his chin-lock backbreaker. Then Orton hits the hanging-rope DDT! The crowd chants "RKO! RKO!" Orton hypes the crowd and sets up for the RKO... when Bryan gets in Orton's way! Orton pushes Bryan out of the way and walks into a big boot from Kane--and Bryan does a fast count!
WINNER, again: Kane
Kane complains about the fast count and he and Bryan bicker. Kane goozles Bryan to a huge pop from the crowd... but he lets go of Bryan and heads to the back. Bryan watches Kane leave... then turns around into an RKO from Orton!
"I Hear Voices" plays and Orton is furious over the loss.
Backstage, Paul Heyman and the Intercontinental Champion Curtis Axel are talking to CM Punk. Punk says that he will defeat the Prime-Time Players by himself and Axel need only watch. Heyman doesn't understand the hostility coming from Punk. Punk says he trusts Heyman but he doesn't trust Curtis Axel. Heyman says that if Punk trusts Heyman then he should trust him when he says that Axel is worthy of Punk's trust as well.
A vignette plays for former WWE Champion Bob Backlund. Next up, a vignette for former World Heavyweight Champion, The American Dream, Dusty Rhodes.
Back from commercial and Fandango's ballroom theme hits and Fandango makes his return from injury! Fandango dances on stage with his valet, who JBL calls Mrs. Fandango. Her name is actually Summer Rae. This is Fandango's first match since the beginning of June. Cole reminds us that Fandango will be making his first appearance in a Money in the Bank ladder match for the World Heavyweight Championship contract at the pay-per-view.
Fandango shouts his name to the audience as his valet does the splits mid-ring.
"Too Many Lies" hits and Sheamus' music hits. The Irishman enters to some unexpected booing.
MATCH FOUR: Sheamus vs Fandango w/ Summer Rae
The ref rings the bell as Fandango struts in a circle around the ring. He ducks Sheamus' first strike and dances in the corner. Fandango dodges Sheamus a second time and dances some more. The crowd is getting on Fandango now. Third attempted lock-up and Sheamus ducks... and now Sheamus dances to a big pop! Sheamus lays into Fandango in the corner and drops him with a big clothesline, followed by a vertical suplex for a nearfall. The crowd is chanting for the beautiful Summer Rae.
Fandango turns the tables and goes to work on Sheamus. Sheamus isn't down for long, as he hits a shoulder block and a running knee-lift. Fandango heads to the outside and Sheamus pursues, throwing Fandango into the barricade. As Sheamus tries to pull Fandango back into the ring, Fandango hits a high kick to Sheamus' skull. Fandango follows up with a Pele kick for a nearfall. Sheamus is dazed and on the ropes. Fandango hammers away on Sheamus as duelling chants for both men break out in the crowd. Fandango holds an arm-hook and collar tie-up as Sheamus fights his way back to his feet. Fandango keeps up the pressure with a rear chin-lock. Cole runs down Sheamus' accolades: WWE Champion, World Champion, King of the Ring... this would be a huge win for Fandango. Just then, Sheamus turns the tables and wraps Fandago in the ropes and clubs his chest for a ten-count. Fandango spills to the outside and retreats up the ramp with Summer Rae. The ref counts Fandango out and Sheamus gets the win!
WINNER: Sheamus
Fandango gets booed as he heads to the back, running from the Celtic Warrior.
Back from commercial and Chris Jericho enters and joins the announce table, wishing all the viewers a happy Canada Day. "Feed Me More" hits and Ryback marches to the ring, looking determined. Ryback will face off with Chris Jericho at the Money in the Bank pay-per-view.
"I Came to Play" hits and The Miz enters to face off with Ryback.
MATCH FIVE: The Miz vs Ryback
Jericho notes that Ryback has been showing weakness lately. Jericho calls him Cryback. As soon as the match begins, The Miz goes after Ryback's knee. Ryback tweaked his knee last week.
Ryback gets angry and goes on the offensive against Miz. He hits a few throws and Miz is reeling. Ryback slams Miz to the mat repeatedly and shouts "You see that, Chris?" to Jericho.
Ryback stomps The Miz on the mat and hammers away on his face. Miz kicks Ryback in the head twice but Ryback lays him back down with a shoulder-block. Miz tries to fight back from his knees but Ryback cuts him off and drops several knees. Ryback taunts Jericho some more.
Ryback is pounding Miz' chest on the outside, dominating him. Back in the ring, Miz keeps trying to fight back and keeps getting cut off. Ryback is toying with Miz and Miz gets angry. Miz unloads with left hands and hits a gunpacket dropkick to Ryback's injured leg! Miz hits his running clothesline on Ryback in the corner, following with a dropping knee-bar, hyper-extending the knee. Miz stretches the knee over the middle rope... then charges with a dropkick to the knee! Ryback is holding his injured knee and begs the ref to stop the match! Ryback forfeits!
WINNER: The Miz
Miz looks confused as Ryback limps to his feet. Jericho charges the ring and Ryback turns around into a Codebreaker! Jericho's music plays after The Miz picks up a big win, heading into his Intercontinental Championship match against Curtis Axel at Money in the Bank.
We're offered a vignette of former WWE Champion Hulk Hogan. Then, we see a package for former World Heavyweight Champion Ric Flair.
"Somebody Gonna Get Dey Ass Kicked" hits and Mark Henry takes the stage with a microphone. Henry says he earned the title of World's Strongest Man. Henry represented the USA at two Summer Olympic games. He's been in the WWE for seventeen years, winning the ECW Championship and the World Heavyweight Championship... but never the WWE Championship. Henry says that he has earned this opportunity and he's taking it. Henry says that he's sick of doing the right thing for the business. He deserves to be WWE Champion. We're all going to admit that he earned it. Henry looks into the camera: "John Cena? At Money in the Bank, I'm gonna beat yo' ass!"
Backstage, Maddox and Vickie are greeted by Mr. McMahon. He says that he doesn't like Daniel Bryan and he wants Guerrero to listen to him. McMahon says Stephanie and HHH don't understand the business. He says Vickie doesn't understand--that's why she's giving away Champion vs Champion for free, when it should be on pay-per-view. McMahon says they need to do what he says.
Back from commercial and "Cult of Personality" hits and CM Punk enters to a huge pop! "Perfect Son" follows and the Intercontinental Champion, Curtis Axel enters with Paul Heyman.
The Primetime Players are in-ring, ready for tag team action.
MATCH SIX: The Primetime Players vs CM Punk & Intercontinental Champion Curtis Axel w/ Paul Heyman.
Punk starts the match as the crowd chants his name--then Axel tags himself in by slapping Punk's back. Axel and Darren Young lock it up. Axel hits a nice arm-drag and Punk demands he be tagged in. Axel ignores Punk and continues the assault on Young. Axel lights up Young with chops in the corner. He drops Young with a clothesline and again Axel refuses to tag in Punk. Young tags in O'Neil and Titus locks up with Axel as the crowd chants "We Want Punk!"
Axel lands a dropkick on O'Neil and Axel refuses to tag Punk again--and eats a huge lariat from Titus. The Big Deal hits a big throw on Axel and tags in Young for a double-team.
Young and O'Neil hammer away at Axel in the corner. O'Neil locks a stretch on Axel as Axel tries to fight out. O'Neil hits a big slam and mocks Punk in the corner. Axel hits a big boot and crawls to Punk... and makes the tag! Punk enters with a springboard crossbody on Young, followed by a swinging neck-breaker. Punk hits his running knee in the corner and goes up top... elbow drop from the top rope! Punk calls for the Go 2 Sleep and connects! Axel tags Punk on the back and covers the prone Darren Young for the three-count! Punk is annoyed that Axel stole the victory.
WINNERS: CM Punk and the Intercontinental Champion, Curtis Axel
Punk argues with Heyman before storming off in a rage. Axel celebrates in ring.
We're offered a vignette for former WWE Champion Steve Austin, followed by a video for former World Heavyweight Champion Sting.
Back from commercial and Alicia Fox is in the ring, ready for action. Kaitlyn enters with Layla El.
MATCH SEVEN: Alicia Fox vs Kaitlyn, w/ Layla El
Fox shoves Kaitlyn against the ropes. Kaitlyn gets angry and drops Fox with a short-arm clothesline. Kaitlyn goes for a jackknife cover for a nearfall and Fox bounces back with a dropkick for a nearfall of her own. Fox charges Kaitlyn in the corner and Kaitlyn fights out. Fox lands a nice Northern Lights suplex for a nearfall. Fox misses a rolling legdrop and Kaitlyn hits a spear out of nowhere for the win!
WINNER: Kaitlyn
Suddenly, "Light it Up" hits and Divas Champion A.J. Lee comes out with a microphone and Big E Langston.
Lee calls Kaitlyn "Katie KaBoom." Lee calls Kaitlyn trash and brings up some unsavoury modelling photos Kaitlyn took before she joined the WWE. Lee shows a photo with Kaitlyn's face superimposed on a large woman's body. Lee says that Kaitlyn will lose her rematch at Money in the Bank and go right back to those old days.
Backstage, Guerrero and Maddox are talking when Stephanie McMahon enters. Stephanie is upset because she asked Vickie to handle the AJ Lee situation and Vickie didn't listen. Vickie says she's trying to do everything that all of the McMahon family members are asking but she's losing her mind. Stephanie says she understand and wants to help Vickie. Vickie says that Mr McMahon and HHH are a little crazy and Stephanie doesn't take kindly to it. Stephanie says that Vickie deserves straightforward guidance... next week on Raw, there will be a public job evaluation for Vickie Guerrero.
A video package airs hyping the return of Mr Monday Night, Rob Van Dam!
"Smoke and Mirrors" hits and Cody Rhodes makes his way to the ring, accompanied by Damian Sandow in a suit. Sandow takes the microphone and says that in two weeks, both he and Rhodes--his best friend--will compete against each other in the Money in the Bank ladder match for the World Championship contract. Rhodes says that they are men of character and no competition can come between them.
Antonio Cesaro enters with Zeb Colter. Colter asks America to wake up. Colter says America has been stolen from Americans by illegal immigrants. Colter says that the institution of marriage is under attack. Colter says that he and Cesaro are not alone in their fight: a Real American has returned! Jack Swagger makes his return, joining Colter and Cesaro. Both Cesaro and Swagger will compete in the Money in the Bank ladder match with Sandow and Rhodes. Colter says you're either with them or you're against them.
MATCH EIGHT: Antonio Cesaro, w/ Zeb Colter and Jack Swagger, vs Cody Rhodes, w/ Damian Sandow
In the ring, Cesaro and Rhodes lock up and Rhodes goes for a takedown. Cesaro grabs a gutwrench and throws Rhodes with a big suplex. The crowd is chanting "We the People." Rhodes runs the ropes and hits a falling uppercut, shades of his daddy, The American Dream. Rhodes goes for a sunset flip but Cesaro stomps him. Rhodes gets a nearfall with his feet on the ropes and Cesaro knocks Rhodes to the outside with an uppercut. Rhodes hotshots Cesaro off the top rope. Rhodes goes for a backslide but Cesaro reverses into the Neutralizer for the win!
WINNER: Antonio Cesaro
Sandow was talking to the announce table when Rhodes lost and he looks frustrated with Rhodes in the ring.
We get a video package for former WWE Champion and current COO of the WWE, HHH. Next, we see a video for the former World Heavyweight Champion, Booker T.
Backstage, the Bella Twins are greeting members of the E! Total Divas cast. They talk to new divas until the Funkadactyls and Natalya come to argue with the Bellas. Natalya tells off the Bellas and Nikki says that the Bellas are the reason that divas are getting attention.
We see another video for the Wyatt family. They're debuting next week on Raw!
Alberto del Rio's music hits and the World Heavyweight Champion makes his way to the ring. Cole explains that his personal ring announcer, Ricardo Rodriguez, was injured by Dolph Ziggler's attack on Smackdown and isn't by the Champion's side.
"My Time is Now" hits and the WWE Champion, John Cena charges the ring!
MATCH NINE: World Heavyweight Champion, Alberto del Rio vs WWE Champion, John Cena
Roberts introduces both men in-ring, giving this a big-match feel. The ref rings the bell and the champion vs champion match is on!
Del Rio starts on the offense, locking a headlock and landing a takedown. The crowd is chanting for Cena as the WWE Champion leapfrogs del Rio and lands a headlock takeover of his own. Del Rio tosses Cena off and hits a hip toss and trash talks Cena. They lock up again and Cena goes for the Attitude Adjustment early, but del Rio escapes and heads out to the floor for a breather.
Del Rio returns to the ring and we lock it up again. Del Rio lands stiff kicks to Cena's thigh, dropping Cena in the corner. Del Rio lands a running kick for a nearfall. Del Rio goes for a vertical suplex, but Cena blocks it and hits a fisherman's suplex of his own!
Cena hits a running bulldog and del Rio is reeling in the corner. Cena misses a running shoulderblock and eats the steel ringpost. Del Rio is pleased.
On the outside, del Rio goes to work on Cena and throws him into the steel steps. Cena is sent back into the ring and del Rio ascends the ropes and hits a big clubbing blow for a nearfall.
Del Rio stomps Cena on the mat. Del Rio charges Cena but Cena dodges the running dropkick and del Rio spills to the floor hard!
Back from commercial and del Rio has a chin-lock on Cena. Cena fights out with power but del Rio kicks him in the gut and throws Cena on the back of his head. Del Rio ascends the ropes again... and Cena catches him mid-air with a dropkick to the midsection!
Cena starts rolling but del Rio ducks the second shoulder-tackle and del Rio hits a baseball slide and Cena hits the floor on the outside. The ref counts for Cena as del Rio gloats in ring. Cena hotshots del Rio off the top rope and goes back to the shoulder-blocks. Del Rio reverses Cena's back suplex and hits a backstabber for a nearfall! Del Rio is calling for the cross-armbreaker. Cena reverses and hits his spinning side suplex and calls for the five-knuckle shuffle!
The shuffle hits and del Rio gets out of the AA and hits a beautiful German suplex on Cena for a nearfall. Back and forth action and Cena is down.
Del Rio charges for a kick to the head, but Cena catches him in a belly-to-belly suplex for a nearfall of his own. Cena starts climbing the ropes and del Rio cuts him off with a running shining wizard! But Cena still kicks out! Del Rio is frustrated and tries another kick. Cena ducks and goes for the STF; del Rio wriggles out and catches Cena with a massive tilt-a-whirl backbreaker for another nearfall! Both men are exhausted.
Del Rio hangs Cena in the tree of woe and kicks him in the head. Del Rio charges and Cena pulls himself up as del Rio eats turnbuckle. From the top rope, Cena hits a beautiful cross-body! Del Rio kicks out!
Both men struggle to their feet and Cena lifts for the Attitute Adjustment; del Rio slips out and applies the cross-armbreaker; Cena rolls through and locks in the STF!! So many reversals!
Del Rio is struggling in the STF... and here comes Mark Henry down the ramp. Cena releases the hold to get ready for Henry... but Henry just walks calmly to the ringside. Del Rio kicks Cena in the head for a nearfall! Ziggler appears on the apron and distracts del Rio! Cena catches del Rio for the AA and the win!!
WINNER: The WWE Champion, John Cena.
Cena's music plays as Mark Henry looks frustrated and Dolph Ziggler looks pleased.
Henry grabs the WWE Title from ringside and comes into the ring. Cena stares down the World's Strongest Man. Henry spooks Cena and laughs at him, before dropping the WWE Title at Cena's feet. Henry goes to attack Cena when Cena bends down, but Cena is prepared. The men stare each other down until Henry exits the ring. Henry taps his wrist, indicating that Cena's time is running out.
To close out the show, we get one last vignette for the Wyatt Family. They're debuting next week!
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