The World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho vs. Edge

There was a time when Chris Jericho and Edge were close buds, inseparable tag team champions even. But that was before The Rated-R Superstar made the “mistake” of suffering a torn Achilles tendon last summer and spending seven months recuperating from surgery.

Rather than stand by his pal, Jericho turned on Edge before the last of his sutures were even out. The arrogant Superstar claimed that he, not his former partner, was responsible for all the successes they enjoyed. As one might imagine, The Rated-R Superstar seethed from his hospital bed and longed to pay back his fair-weather fiend.

Now, the wait is over. Edge will get his chance on The Grandest Stage of Them All when he challenges Jericho for the World Heavyweight Championship a tWrestleMania.

For The Ultimate Opportunist, The Road to WrestleMania was paved last month at the Royal Rumble when he emerged as a surprise entrant and shocked the WWE Universe by outlasting 29 opponents after a painful rehabilitation. As a result of the win, he was able to choose for which World Championship he would compete.

For Edge’s opponent, however, the path would prove more twisting. The self-important Superstar collided inside the Elimination Chamber with five others, including then-World Heavyweight Champ TheUndertaker. Just as it appeared The Deadman would block Jericho’s path to Phoenix, Shawn Michaels arrived to pay the toll, superkicking The Phenom, which allowed Jericho to win the title and a guaranteed match at WrestleMania.

The WWE Champion Batista vs. John Cena

For a brief moment at WWE Elimination Chamber, John Cena was the WWE Champion and as far as he was concerned, order was restored to the WWE Universe, but that was all ripped away from him when Mr. McMahon granted Batista a post-Chamber title match against the battle-worn Champ.

On Raw, in a match pitting Cena against Batista to decide which former champion - Cena or Sheamus - would challenge The Animal at WrestleMania, Cena thought that his fate was in his hands. Batista proved otherwise as he made the choice himself, purposely getting himself disqualified, awarding Cena the WWE Championship confrontation at WrestleMania – as well as a vicious post-match beating with a steel chair.

It’s no surprise the tension is as thick as it is between these two considering what has transpired in recent weeks, both seemingly taking opposite sides in the war waging between Mr. McMahon and WWE Hall of FamerBret Hart. The first shot fired could even be considered the most brutal. Weeks ago, when Raw went off the air, Batista crushed Cena with a vicious Batista Bomb onto the steel ring steps. Only now, it would seem, is The Animal’s motive for the unprovoked assault clear: A main event confrontation at WrestleMania.

Even before these incidents began to transpire, these men were no strangers to each other, though the circumstances were much different. At SummerSlam2008, these men clashed,  with a much different Animal victorious against Cena, who was injured in battle. But then, there was mutual respect between the two – now it’s just blind hatred.

What will come of this colossal rematch on The Grandest Stage of Them All? Will Cena extract revenge while recapturing the WWE Championship? Or will The Animal tear into the former champion as he proclaims his dominance across the WWE landscape? The only way to find out will be by watching WrestleMania XXVI as it emanates from Phoenix, Ariz., on March 28, live on pay-per-view.

The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels

At WrestleMania, The Undertaker will put his 17-0 undefeated streak on the line against Shawn Michaels’ storybook career, in a rematch so highly anticipated and potentially explosive that it could only occur on The Grandest Stage of Them All.

The showdown between The Demon of Death Valley and HBK at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania one year ago had seemed like destiny. The Phenom – never bested in the history of WWE’s greatest pay-per-view – would finally clash with Mr. WrestleMania himself. Although The Deadman ultimately reigned supreme over Michaels in a match many consider as one of the greatest of all time, the epic battle only fueled their mutual legend as well as the WWE Universe’s insatiable thirst for a return confrontation. 

The Bret Hart vs. Mr. McMahon

The two  men, one ring and more than 12 years of bad blood. It all adds up to one of the most anticipated grudge matches in WWE history

The hemorrhaging of animosity between these two began on Nov. 9, 1997. It was then, at Survivor Series in Montreal, that the then-WWE Champion Hart facedShawn Michaels as The Chairman looked on at ringside. With the bout underway, HBK locked the “Hit Man” into Hart’s signature submission hold, The Sharpshooter. While Hart never submitted, the referee nonetheless ordered the bell to be rung and the title awarded to Michaels, all of which had been orchestrated by Mr. McMahon.

The “Montreal Screwjob,” as it has henceforth been known, left Hart filled with rage, especially toward The Chairman. For his part, however, Mr. McMahon has made no apologies, almost seeming to revel in his duplicity.

The situation remained at a stalemate until Jan. 4, when Hart agreed to act as special guest host of Raw in hopes of gaining “closure.” It was during the historic broadcast that the WWE Hall of Famer managed to make peace with Michaels. It was also when Mr. McMahon’s treachery continued. After praising his longtime nemesis, The Chairman betrayed Hart, kicking him and leaving him writhing on the canvas. In subsequent weeks, Mr. McMahon would berate and, with help from Batista, actually spit in the face of Hart

The Money in the Bank Ladder Match at Wrestlemania

The opportunity to compete for a World Championship is so significant to the Superstars of WWE that every year eight of the most fearless and talented competitors risk it all for this very goal in a Money in the Bank Ladder Match.

First contested at WrestleMania 21 in 2005, this dangerous, but rewarding contest pits eight Superstars against one another in a battle to climb a ladder and snatch a briefcase hanging precariously above the ring. Inside the case is a contract giving the winner an opportunity to face a World Champion at a time of their choosing throughout a 12-month period.

This unique ability to "cash in" a championship opportunity at any moment has given Money in the Bank winners a serious advantage over their opponents on many occasions. Edge, the first-ever "Mr. Money in the Bank," cashed in his contract at New Year's Revolution2006, defeating WWE Champion John Cenaimmediately after the 12 Rounds star had just successfully defended his title in an Elimination Chamber Match. At Extreme Rules in 2009, CM Punkelected to face Jeff Hardy moments after The Charismatic Enigma defeated Edge for the World Heavyweight Championship in a grueling Tables, Ladders and Chairs Match.

Every Superstar who has cashed in a Money in the Bank contract has gone on to win a World Championship, including CM Punk, who won the contest at WrestleMania in 2008 and 2009. This amazing percentage for victory has proven that the risks of this perilous match are certainly worth the reward.

The Unified Tag Team Champions Big Show and Miz vs. John Morrison and R-Truth

the match  will put the immovable and the awesome against the fast and the furious, John Morrison & R-Truth will challenge Unified Tag Team Champions Big Show& The Miz at WrestleMania.

Shortly after United States Champion The Miz joined forces with The World’s Largest Athlete, the impressive duo overcame D-Generation X to capture the illustrious Tag Team Titles. Retaining the championships in hard-fought defenses against both Michaels & Triple H andMark Henry & MVP on Money Night Raw, the dominant mixture of power and resourcefulness turned its attention to Friday nights in search of new competition.

Knowing that he could seek tag team contenders on any WWE show he wished, outspoken Unified Tag Team Champ The Miz arrived on SmackDown to mark his territory. SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long’s response would be swift, resulting in a Triple Threat Tag Team Match the following week to see just who would face the “Awesome One” and his enormous partner at WrestleMania.

When the smoke cleared in the brutal tag team showdown one week later, the electric combination of Morrison & Truth stood triumphant; overcoming both Cryme Tyme and The Hart Dynasty to become No. 1 Contenders to Show-Miz’s much sought-after throne. The collective high-octane force of two of WWE’s most explosively dynamic Superstars will serve as a tremendous threat to the reigning champions. 

Gail Kim vs. Maryse (Divas Championship Match)

Nature abhors a vacuum and, apparently, so do WWE Divas. When former Divas Champion Melina injured herself and was unable to continue her reign, a bevy of the sexy, smart and powerful lovelies stepped forward to fill the void. Now, after several weeks of intense tournament matches, that group has narrowed to two, Gail Kim and Maryse, who will battle at WWE Elimination Chamber to determine the next Divas Champion.
As Gail and Maryse prepare for perhaps the most important match of their respective careers, they must shift focus from the gauntlet just completed to the challenge ahead. A victory for Gail would propel her into rarified air indeed as one of only four Divas ever to have held both the Women’s Championship and the Divas Championship. Were the conceited Canadian to prevail, the win would mean her second reign possessing the Butterfly Title.
How the match will play out is anyone’s guess, however, it should be noted that, as of late, Maryse has shown uncharacteristic sportsmanship toward her opponent. Whether her sentiments are genuine or simply a ploy to gain psychological advantage remains to be seen. Stay tuned.

One-Man Dynasty Indeed?

ORLANDO, Fla. – Before some 70,000 stunned fans who were convinced that either John Cena or Triple H would walk away with the gold, Randy Orton proved tonight that reports of his demise as WWE Champion at WrestleMania XXIV were premature.
A wave of boos and a spattering of middle fingers greeted Orton as he held the WWE Title high for everyone in the Citrus Bowl and millions of pay-per-view watchers worldwide to see. “I told you so,” Orton seemed to be saying as he celebrated his victory. Many critics seemed to believe that it was a foregone conclusion that the Legend Killer’s five-month reign as WWE Champion would end at WrestleMania XXIV. And the arrogant Orton was keenly aware of this – and that’s why he reveled in his own special WrestleMania moment as a despondent Triple H and Cena looked on incredulously.

Seeds of a Dynasty

Ever since he won the WWE Championship, Randy Orton has been telling every and anyone who would listen that he is a “One-Man Dynasty.” Since October, he had shown he would do absolutely anything to keep the WWE Championship – no one, no relative was safe and nothing was over the line for Orton in his quest to keep the gold. The Legend Killer had emerged as a force atop the WWE mountain and turned back the challenges of elite contenders such as Shawn Michaels, Chris Jericho and Jeff Hardy.
But as sadistic and egotistical as the third-generation Superstar is, he is also a proud champion. Tonight was the first time he headlined WrestleMania as champion and he was determined to prove a point. He was also annoyed that so many fans and critics anointed Cena and The Game as the next WWE Champion at WrestleMania.
In the weeks leading up to WrestleMania XXIV, Orton even made it a point to stun his two opponents on separate occasions with sudden RKOs when he believed they had forgotten about him and were too focused on each other. Orton saw Cena and Triple H as two nuisances, gnats that were always flying around his title and would never let him bask in his greatness. By eliminating Triple H and Cena on The Grandest Stage of Them All, he believed he would prove once and for all that he is a “One-Man Dynasty.”

Three-Way Quest for Redemption

And tonight, Orton went a long way towards legitimizing his dynasty claims, but not without a fight from both Cena and Triple H. These three warriors are as different as anyone can be, but they share a common passion for the Holy Grail of sports-entertainment. And like Orton, Cena and The Game felt like they had something to prove.
Cena wanted to reclaim the title he never lost. Thanks to Orton, he was injured last October and had to relinquish the WWE Championship. Cena had to watch as the Legend Killer put a vise grip on the gold. Cena’s torn pectorial muscle was supposed to keep him out of WrestleMania, but he couldn’t sit on the sidelines and watch someone else hold his title. He decided to risk it all for an opportunity to reclaim the gold at WrestleMania XXIV.
Triple H’s odyssey to WrestleMania XXIV was full of twists, turns and potholes. Sure, he had headlined WrestleMania several times before, but this year was different. He saw WrestleMania XXIV as a chance at redemption. Last year, he missed WrestleMania due to injury. His 11th title reign was cut way too short by Orton, his former friend and Evolution teammate. And The Cerebral Assassin was haunted by Cena, a man he had never defeated. He still remembered tapping out to Cena’s STFU at WrestleMania 22. Cena also prevented The Game from winning this year’s Royal Rumble.
Triple H was proud that he overcame all sorts of obstacles, gauntlets and five opponents in the Elimination Chamber at No Way Out to make it back to The Grandest Stage of Them All. But he wasn’t going to feel complete unless he left the Triple Threat Match for the WWE Championship with the gold. Triple H lives to be WWE Champion. He wanted – needed – to show the world at WrestleMania XXIV that he truly was The King of Kings and back on top of his Game.

A Cerebral Legend Killer: 'I Told You So' 

Unfortunately for Cena and Triple H, their dreams of redemption at WrestleMania were just that – dreams. The Triple Threat Match was a war where the tide shifted several times between Cena, Orton and Triple H. Weeks of one-upmanship and mind games came to a physical head tonight as all three warriors showed they would do anything – and use any weapon – to win the gold.
However, in the end, brains turned out to be the deciding factor over brawn. Orton showed that he had indeed learned his lessons well from The Cerebral Assassin in their Evolution days. After watching The Game crush Cena with a Pedigree, Orton disposed of an unsuspecting Triple H with a punt to the skull and covered the vulnerable West Newbury, Mass. native for the stunning three-count.
So, The Champ is still here … but it’s not Cena. To the chagrin of Cena, Triple H, many of our fans and the locker room, Randy Orton is still the WWE Champion. And believe us, the self-proclaimed One-Man Dynasty loves to say, “I told you so.” There really will be no living with him now.

WWE Championship Elimination Chamber Match

With The Road to WrestleMania XXVI officially begun following the Royal Rumble, six of Raw’s top Superstars now know which path they are on – and that is one with a hellish pit stop known as the Elimination Chamber. (Read Elimination Chamber Match rules)
On Raw, WWE Champion Sheamus saw John Cena, Triple H, Randy Orton, Ted DiBiase and Kofi Kingston all win qualifying matches for the opportunity to walk out of the Chamber holding The Celtic Warrior’s title.
Considering not only one of the prestigious titles in wrestling history will be on the line but also the opportunity to defend it on The Grandest Stage of Them All, the carnage already promised by the unforgiving structure will surely be multiplied.
Now that the stakes have risen, there’s no telling what any Superstar will do to win the championship. Last year, Edge proved that fact as he brutally attacked Kofi Kingston prior to the Chamber match and ultimately claimed victory becoming the World Heavyweight Champion.
Not that stepping into the Chamber isn’t dangerous enough, the incumbent champion has even more pressure on his shoulders with the odds being stacked against him as five other Superstars look to claim the top spot on Raw.
Whether it’s Sheamus or one of his five challengers who finds themselves as the last man standing at the inaugural pay-per-view bearing the brutal structure’s name, there’s one thing for sure, The Road to WrestleMania is going to be a beaten path. Find out who leaves as champion as WWE Elimination Chamber airs Sunday, Feb. 21 live on pay-per-view

Intercontinental Champion Drew McIntyre vs. Kane - Intercontinental Championship Match

At WWE Elimination Chamber, Intercontinental Champion Drew McIntyre will go head-to-head with Kane in an explosive collision between two extremely volatile Superstars.

Just five days after the Royal Rumble both competitors battled in a Triple Threat Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match against John Morrison on SmackDown. Although neither of the Superstars walked away triumphant, McIntyre managed to hit the Double Underhook DDT, nearly achieving victory over The Big Red Monster. The following week, they engaged in a fierce battle that ended in a double count-out.

The “Chosen One” puts his title on the line with extreme confidence. His eagerness to bulldoze over anyone who stands in his way is accompanied by his ruthless nature and willingness to do whatever it takes to stay on top. Since personally being signed by WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon, he has remained undefeated in singles competition. The spotlight is shining on the Scottish Superstar and he plans to derail anyone’s ploy to take that away.

At 7-feet tall and more than 300 pounds, Kane has a substantial physical advantage over the 6-foot-5, 243-pound title holder. Perhaps the monstrous Superstar’s daunting presence, merciless maneuvers in the ring and non-stop sadistic drive will help the terrifying menace add to his already long list of accomplishments, a past that includes two reigns as the Intercontinental Champion.

Though it’s unclear which Superstar will prevail, one thing’s for sure. Both of these uncompromising Superstars are looking to walk into WrestleMania with the coveted title.

Will Drew McIntyre retain his Intercontinental Championship against his fearless contender at the inaugural Elimination Chamber pay-per-view? Or will he lose his illustrious title to The Big Red Monster? Find out Sunday, Feb. 21, live on pay-per-view.

WWE Champion Sheamus vs. Randy Orton

Like a rough Irish whiskey, WWE Champion Sheamus has proven that, when trifled with, he's more than capable of leaving even the toughest man flat on his back. At the Royal Rumble, however, The Celtic Warrior must face a particularly sobering prospect: Defending his title against five-time WWE Champion Randy Orton.

While The Viper's inclusion in the WWE Title Match may seem unexpected, it should come as no surprise to those familiar with his methods. Orton recognized an opportunity during a Triple Threat Match on Raw to determine the No. 1 contender and, as usual, he quickly seized it. As he battled with his opponents, John Cena and Kofi Kingston, his henchmen from The Legacy, Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase, caused enough of a distraction to allow the scheming Superstar the victory.

While Orton has never seemed interested in clothing his naked ambition, he should be careful what he's gotten himself into. Sheamus' rabid aggression and overwhelming strength promise to be a powerful antidote to the cold calculation and athletic agility of The Viper.

Will The Celtic Warrior be able to prevent Orton - with a possible assist by Legacy - from regaining the precious WWE Championship? Or will the pipes, the pipes be calling for the insistent Irishman?

To find out, be sure to catch all the action live on Sunday, Jan. 31 at 8 PM/5 PM PT, exclusively on pay-per-view.

ECW Champion Christian vs. Ezekiel Jackson

Following the ECW Homecoming tournament, an Eight-Man Over-the-Top Rope Challenge decided who will square off against Christian for the ECW Championship at the Royal Rumble. The contest featured some of the top ECW Superstars both past and present all vying for a title opportunity. After a wild brawl, Ezekiel Jackson was the only ring warrior remaining, earning himself a match against Christian at the Royal Rumble.

Ezekiel Jackson’s victory was impressive to say the least as Hardy, Kane and CM Punk are all former ECW Champions and Vance Archer and Yoshi Tatsu are two of the Land of the Extreme’s most promising young stars. Previously Big Zeke showed just how dangerous he can be, especially under William Regal’s tutelage, with the strategic and powerful dismantling of former associate Vladimir Kozlov in an ECW Homecoming qualifying match. With his sights now set on the ECW Championship, there may be no stopping the 6-foot-4, 309-pound Guyanese Goliath, and with The British Brawler acting as his advisor, there’s no telling what unscrupulous tactics the two might employ.

Christian reclaimed the ECW Title at Night of Champions and has since defeated all challengers including Shelton Benjamin and Master Regal. Following a heated rivalry between Captain Charisma and Regal last year, what role will The British Brawler play at the Royal Rumble? The ECW Champion will no doubt need all the support he can gather from his Peeps as he prepares to once again defend his coveted title.

Ezekiel Jackson is on a roll and has built up a great deal of momentum heading into this match-up. Can Christian overcome what is perhaps his biggest and baddest threat to date to retain the ECW Title? Tune in to the Royal Rumble Sunday, Jan. 31 at 8 PM/5 PM PT, exclusively on pay-per-view.

Women's Champion Michelle McCool vs. Mickie James

After coming to SmackDown in late 2009 by way of the tri-brand Divas trade, Women's Champion Michelle McCool has made Mickie James' life miserable.

Week after week, Michelle – often in cahoots with Layla – perpetrated one mean and awful act after another:

• Michelle and Layla viciously cut Mickie's ring attire with a pair of scissors. (WATCH | PHOTOS)

• In Michelle's personalized version of "Old McDonald" the nickname "Piggy James" was spawned. (WATCH | PHOTOS)

At Survivor Series, James earned a measure of revenge when Team Mickie defeated Team Michelle in a Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match. (PHOTOS | RESULTS)

Then, despite a valiant effort from Mickie, Michelle came out on top at WWE TLC. (PHOTOS | RESULTS)

In 2010, Michelle never let up.

• After Mickie was beaten up in a match with Beth Phoenix on SmackDown, Michelle and Layla finished the job with an even more vicious assault. (WATCH | PHOTOS)

• At a SmackDown "goodbye party," Mickie was smashed in the face with cake, beaten and covered in punch. (WATCH | PHOTOS)

There's no doubt Mickie has enough motivation to want to put a stop to Michelle's bullying.

At Royal Rumble, can Mickie finally dethrone Michelle, or will the former school teacher give Mickie another

World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker vs. Rey Mysterio - World Heavyweight Championship Match

At the Royal Rumble, following weeks of controversy, World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker will put the title on the line against Rey Mysterio. Will the ultimate forces of darkness cast their shadows over Mysterio’s unwavering heart?

On SmackDown Christmas Night, The Master of the 619 bravely challenged The Phenom for the World Title. But, no clear winner could be declared after Batista suddenly charged into their epic battle, igniting an all-out three-way brawl. Though Mysterio was the only Superstar standing when the post-match smoke cleared, the WWE Universe remained thirsty for a definitive outcome.

Mysterio refused to be denied, roaring back to presumably win the Beat the Clock Challenge the following week and, with it, an opportunity to face The Undertaker once more at the Royal Rumble. But, controversy over his interference in The Animal’s Challenge Match demanded that a showdown take place between the two former friends before the pay-per-view main event could be decided. Their fierce match only brought further uncertainty to the situation, after both war-torn Superstars were mysteriously attacked in darkness, a sure sign that The Undertaker had decided to make his ominous presence known.

In order to finally secure a definitive challenger for The Undertaker’s crown, a Steel Cage Match was announced on SmackDown between Mysterio and Batista. And in a fire of fast-paced fury, Mysterio overcame The Animal to take his place as the true No. 1 contender.

Sometimes, even a Superstar with the greatest drive has to be careful what they wish for or they may end up resting in peace. Since recapturing the World Title, the iconic Undertaker has been operating on his own plain of existence. His silent wrath has grown beyond his legend and his ability inside the squared circle seems to have surpassed that of ordinary men. The mere idea of him strikes fear in the hearts of any Superstar that dare take him on and many doubt if anyone in WWE will ever overcome his dominance.

Despite his size however, Mysterio has shown time and time again that he refuses to be denied. A former World Champion himself, the masked Superstar has taken on and defeated some of the greatest combatants that have ever laced up the boots, utilizing an explosive combination of experience, athletic ability and unrivaled passion. The high-octane luchador has proven that, on any given night, he can overcome the odds to climb the mountain to glory.

How will The Deadman successfully defend his World Championship against the Superstar whose competitive spirit refuses to die? Find out at the Royal Rumble, Sunday, Jan. 31 at 8pm/5pm PT, exclusively on pay-per-view.

30-Man Royal Rumble Match

Twenty-six years ago, the dream of modern-day WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon was made manifest with the birth of the squared circle’s most celebrated spectacle, WrestleMania. More than a quarter of a century later, 30 Superstars will have the ultimate opportunity to realize their dream of performing in the World Championship main event match on this now aggrandized stage for the most brilliant competitors.

They can dance on The Grandest Stage of Them All at WrestleMania XXVI. But first, one man will need to surpass the efforts of 29 opposing competitors with the same aspiration in the 2010 Royal Rumble Match. (View list of Royal Rumble participants)

A test of endurance, athleticism and survival at all costs, the Rumble Match is the definitive Battle Royal, where each Superstar’s prime objective is to propel their opponents over the top rope, with both feet touching the floor. Every 90 seconds, one of 30 elite ring warriors with randomly drawn Rumble entry numbers joins the fray. Though luck of the draw can be a critical factor in such a high-stakes situation (ideally, entering at No. 30 like 2007 winner Undertaker and 2008 victor John Cena), past Rumble winners have included Superstars who kicked off the Battle Royal at No. 1 (as seen in 1995 with Shawn Michaels).

But, with bodies being tossed out every moment and fresh competitors coming in at such a rapid pace, it’s really anyone’s match. (Watch a special look at the Rumble Match)

In the end, the last Superstar standing can officially punch a gold-embossed ticket to Phoenix's University of Phoenix Stadium, where they will contend for a World Title of their choosing at WrestleMania.

However, as the saying goes, “You have to be in it to win it.” Tune into WWE programming and stay logged on to WWE.com as entrants are named for the 23rd annual Royal Rumble Match. Then be sure to witness this historic event live on pay-per-view on Sunday, Jan. 31, as the 2010 Royal Rumble brings WWE into the new decade.

The Viper strikes back

Related Content
Full Raw coverage
Full WWE TLC coverage
Kofi Kingston's Superstar page
Randy Orton's Superstar page
Watch Kofi deface Orton's NASCAR
Watch Kofi's Boom Drop on Orton
Buy merchandise at WWE Shop

SAN ANTONIO — Randy Orton came to WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs with retribution on his mind. For weeks, Kofi Kingston had gotten the better of The Viper at every turn, from destroying Orton's new car on Raw to pinning him at Survivor Series.

Orton was not going to leave San Antonio without a victory and, thanks to a vicious RKO, the third-generation Superstar made sure that didn't happen.

From the opening bell, these two Superstars went at it with everything they had, until a well-timed dropkick put Orton in the driver's seat. With Kingston writhing in pain, The Viper began to methodically pick his opponent apart.

And then the explosive Superstar suddenly came alive, attacking Orton with a controlled frenzy of kicks and punches. When Kingston connected with Trouble in Paradise, it looked like Orton's fate was sealed, but The Viper managed to grab the rope at the last second.

The third-generation Superstar then took control of the action, nailing Kingston with a DDT and a punt, which missed Kofi's head but connected with his forearm. With his opponent seriously damaged from the brutal kick, Orton seized the opportunity and connected with an RKO for the win.

Despite the loss, Kingston displayed a fighting spirit that can't be denied. Few Superstars have brought the fight to Orton the way Kofi has and the victories he chalked up over The Viper will remain in the record books.

The question now is, will this second pinfall victory over Kofi be enough for Orton? Or will The Viper have more in store for Kingston on Raw? Tune in Monday night to find out.

Christian's championship climb

SAN ANTONIO – It’s impossible to fully prepare one’s self for a match type as punishing as a Ladder Match – much less when the ECW Championship hangs in the balance. But at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs, Christian proved that experience can count for quite a lot when duking it out high above the ring, perched precariously on a steel ladder. The Land of the Extreme’s favorite son successfully grasped the ECW Title, defeating Shelton Benjamin and defending his reputation as a Ladder Match luminary in the process.

Though Christian is rightfully honored for competing and making history in the very first TLC match, his opponent Shelton Benjamin is no slouch when it comes to scaling a perilously-high ladder, having taken part in a record four Money in the Bank Ladder Matches. The WWE Universe was delighted as these risk-taking Superstars made use of all the ladder-wielding attacks, sky-high brawling and daredevil dives that Ladder Match enthusiasts would expect from such a dream match-up.

However, if fans expected the match to be nothing more than a reheating of prior contests, they were in for quite a surprise, as evidenced by a series of death-defying dives that left Captain Charisma busted open and in need of medical attention. Though both ring warriors put life and limb on the line in pursuit of the ECW Title, it was Christian who ultimately reached the championship after putting his opponent through a ladder outside the ring. Barely able to stand after the punishing match, Christian unhooked the Land of the Extreme’s top prize to retain his championship.

Since returning to WWE and capturing the ECW Championship, Christian has been no stranger to challengers intent on relieving him of his coveted title. But in a move that was unusual, yet still befitting this fighting champion, Captain Charisma confronted the No. 1 contender, Shelton Benjamin, challenging the Superstar to a match that both were more than familiar with: A Ladder Match. Though The Gold Standard was at first taken aback by the proposal, after hearing of Christian’s intention to “steal the show” at the first-ever WWE TLC Benjamin eagerly accepted.

Though Christian will return to Tuesday nights still the proud ECW Champion, he will no doubt be feeling the effects of this match-up for some time to come. And just as Captain Charisma will remember the duress Shelton Benjamin and he subjected their bodies to, the WWE Universe will fondly recall the night these two Superstars stole the show at the first-ever WWE TLC.

McCruel" retains

Related Content
Full SmackDown coverage
Women's Champion Michelle McCool's Superstar page
Mickie James' Superstar page
Women's Championship history

SAN ANTONIO - It seems as though the mind games Women’s Champion Michelle McCool has been playing as of late, including that of Layla coming to ringside wearing a “Piggie James” T-shirt , paid off with her outmatching Mickie James to retain the Women’s Title at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs.

Several weeks ago during a match between Mickie and Natalya, Michelle played a disgustingly cruel video which referred to Mickie as “Piggie James” with the distraction not only costing Mickie the match, but also causing a great deal of emotional pain as well.

After winning a Triple Threat Match to become the No. 1 contender to McCool’s Women's Title, it looked like karma was coming into play with Mickie now having the opportunity to put an end to McCool’s torment, while taking her championship in the process.

That was not to be at WWE TLC, as the cruelty continued and Michelle retained the Women’s Championship. Mickie’s tormentors came to ringside with Layla wearing their special-made “Piggie James” T-shirt, and though it seemed to infuriate the No. 1 contender, it also took her head out of the match.

Thanks to that, Michelle had the upper hand. And even though it was a tightly contested match, she came away with the win, becoming the longest reigning current champion in WWE. One thing is for sure though, if the Women’s Champion continues the cruelty, things are far from over between these two smart, sexy and powerful Divas.

The party's just begun

Related Content
Full WWE: Tables, Ladder & Chairs coverage
Full Survivor Series coverage
Watch full episodes of SmackDown
Drew McIntyre's Superstar page
John Morrison's Superstar page
SmackDown Top 100 Moments
Sound off now at WWE Universe
WWE Magazine Feature of the Week

SAN ANTONIO - At WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs, Drew McIntyre stunned the WWE Universe, overcoming Intercontinental Champion John Morrison to capture his coveted title and cementing his reputation as a dominant force to be reckoned with throughout WWE.

In a high-octane battle of sheer emotion that pitted the merciless against the magnificent, the unrelenting ruthlessness of McIntyre ultimately prevailed.

The Shaman of Sexy used his acrobatic moves on the Scottish Superstar on numerous near-pinfall attempts, including taking the action outside the confines of the ring. The two Friday night Superstars battled back and forth in a display of unrelenting young prowess and athletic ability. However, McIntyre woud not let up, with timely maneuvers of his own and intestinal fortitude against Morrison, a proven champion. Ultimately, the Scottish Superstar used the devastating Double Underhook DDT to put away Morrison and earn his first sweet taste of one of the most storied championships in WWE.

From the moment he set foot on SmackDown, McIntyre’s brutal drive and untamed ability seemed to serve as an intense prophecy to his imminent championship success. “The Chosen One,” personally signed by WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon, has run rickshaw over numerous top Friday night Superstars such as Finlay and R-Truth and fought his way to victory in an explosive Elimination Match at Survivor Series. However, it was his monumental non-title win over The Guru of Greatness on SmackDown that helped bring him into the title picture.

Walking into WWE TLC, John Morrison stood as the prime example of everything the Intercontinental Title represents. A dynamic, ultra-athletic Superstar as outspoken as he was talented, The Friday Night Delight upheld his growing reputation as the “A-Lister” when he triumphed over Rey Mysterio in an explosive match to win the title. The Friday Night Delight picked up the prominent championship and ran with it, meeting every challenge head-on; rising to the top time and time again as he defied his challengers who tried to knock him off the mountain. But, at WWE TLC, it would be McIntyre who climbed to new heights, hurling the high-flying Superstar on a tremendous descent from glory.

Drew McIntyre will return to SmackDown with the spoils of his squared circle success. But, with John Morrison and several other Superstars undoubtedly ready to take the much-desired title away from him, will The Scottish Superstar’s unrelenting brutality be enough to keep it around his waist in the weeks to come?

Deadman lays Batista to rest

Related Content
Full WWE: Tables, Ladder & Chairs coverage
World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker's Superstar profile
Batista's Superstar profile
Watch full episodes of SmackDown
Sound off now at WWE Universe
WWE Magazine Feature of the Week

SAN ANTONIO – With a bone-jarring Tombstone, World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker stopped the raging Batista inside the packed AT&T Center. (PHOTOS)

But the victory was not without controversy.

With chairs scattered about the outside of the ring from the start – and entirely legal to use against the opponent – the match could only end in pinfall or submission.

After exchanging chair shots throughout the brutal encounter, The Animal appeared to have captured the World Title after capitalizing on an ugly low blow he delivered to the champion. With The Phenom dazed from the dastardly deed, Batista struck with a chair shot to the head, followed up with the apparent pinfall.

However, SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long ordered the match to be restarted, after explaining that although chairs were legal, low blows were not.

An angry Deadman seized the opportunity, stopping The Animal cold with the Tombstone.

Ever since regaining the World Heavyweight Title earlier this year at Hell in a Cell, The Undertaker has shown no signs of accepting anything but victory. The Phenom chalked up subsequent wins at WWE Bragging Rights, Survivor Series, and tonight at WWE TLC.

As 2009 comes to a close and Royal Rumble looms, The Phenom appears to be on course to successfully defend his inhuman 17-0 record at WrestleMania XXVI.

To find out if The Animal – or any Superstar – will try to derail the champion as 2010 approaches, don’t miss the next edition of SmackDown this Friday at 8/7 CT on MyNetworkTV.

Climb is of the essence for DX

Related Content
See TLC Match photos
Smuggle a 'Swoggle DX shirt at WWEShop.com
Visit D-Generation X's microsite
Warm up with a DX Snugglez at WWEShop.com
View the complete history of the WWE Tag Titles

SAN ANTONIO — Just when it appeared as if the iconic pairing of Shawn Michaels and Triple H couldn’t ascend any higher in WWE, D-Generation X climbed to a new pinnacle in a Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match against Unified Tag Champions Jeri-Show. Capturing their first and only taste of tag titles together, DX thus established themselves as the holders of the glistening gold prizes.

Appropriately enough at the inaugural WWE TLC pay-per-view, The Game & HBK competed in their first TLC Match together – united – and prevailed despite the 7-foot leviathan, Big Show, swinging weapons of aluminum, steel and wood in their general direction. Thwarting Chris Jericho’s equally unrelenting defense as well in a match where virtually anything goes, Michaels scaled the rungs of fortune to not only clinch Jeri-Show’s titles, but also to vanquish Jericho from Monday Night Raw. (PHOTOS)

After chair jousting, ladder suplexes, tabletop combat, DX’s two-man, Texas-sized Pedigree on The World’s Largest Athlete, and a Jeri-Show headstand, the more cohesive team rose to the occasion. Utilizing a halved ladder previously dismantled by Big Show, The Cerebral Assassin bolstered the hardware upright for HBK to climb and reach the championships dangling overhead in his hometown of San Antonio.

The keepers of the tag titles are empowered (and also more susceptible to challenge) in their ability to compete on any WWE brand, despite their assigned roster. Defeated and devoid of the championships, Jericho & Big Show’s association comes to a most probable conclusion. More importantly, SmackDown’s Jericho is now without his golden inter-brand passport, thus liberating Raw from his insults, vainglory and smug grimace beside his towering tag partner.

Just eight months after the birth of the prestigious Unified WWE Tag Team Championship crown at The 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, The King of Kings & The Showstopper have initiated a new legacy in WWE’s tag team lineage at the close of the year.

With two top-tier foes in Jeri-Show now fallen, the DX army marches onward into 2010 for perhaps even bigger wars for the lustrous Unified WWE Tag Team Titles.

Tables turn on Cena

Related Content
WWE TLC coverage
John Cena Superstar page
Sheamus Superstar page

SAN ANTONIO - Every second seemed like the most important tick in squared circle history during Sunday’s epic Tables Match for the WWE Championship at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs. In the end in San Antonio, however, it was Sheamus who utilized the timber to defeat John Cena to capture the WWE Title for the first time in his career and stun the WWE Universe.

From bone-crushing blows to each competitor’s extreme passion, John Cena and Sheamus delivered a battle for the ages as each gladiator in this blockbuster bout aimed to slam their adversary through a table. In the closing moments of the collision, it appeared Cena was ready to suplex Sheamus onto a table from the top rope. But Sheamus used his raw power to shove the former champion off the top and through the table to claim shocking victory.

Similar to his violent outbursts on Raw recently when he smashed Cena and guest host Mark Cuban through lumber, The Celtic Warrior capitalized on the opportunity to become one of the fastest rising Superstars to earn the WWE Title in WWE history.

Just less than two months after debuting on Monday Night Raw, the vicious Irishman proved he is as dominant as he has alleged to be. The ferocious warrior never backed down from the renowned Cena, and showed that even an inexperienced Superstar can pull off the unexpected.

In the Tables Match fallout, a rare look of disappointment in the eyes of the former WWE Champion told a tale of a defeated warrior, but don’t expect this to last long. This year alone, Cena has been involved in some of the memorable matches including ones against Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Edge, Randy Orton, Big Show and now Sheamus – the new WWE Champion.

The WWE Universe may clamor for Sheamus and Cena’s paths to once again intersect. But now that even John Cena has been unseated by The Celtic Warrior for the title, can he (or anyone) possibly stop the uncontrollable Irish champion?

ECW Champion Christian vs. Shelton Benjamin (Ladder Match)

Related Content
Full WWE TLC coverage
Full ECW coverage
ECW Champion Christian's Superstar profile page
Shelton Benjamin's Superstar profile page
ECW Championship history
Relive this year's Money in the Bank Ladder Match
WWE Ladder Match DVD

ECW Champion Christian will return to the match that made him famous when he defends his title against Shelton Benjamin in a Ladder Match at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs.

These two Superstars are no strangers to this dangerous bout. Christian built his reputation competing in high-risk Ladder Matches, including the first-ever Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match at SummerSlam 2000, a grueling contest many fans considered to be one of the greatest WWE matches of all time.

Benjamin, perhaps the finest athlete in all of WWE, has competed in a record four Money in the Bank Ladder Matches. While The Gold Standard has never walked away with the coveted briefcase, his amazing feats of athleticism have wowed the WWE Universe year in and year out. At the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, Benjamin’s memorable dive off the top of a 20-foot ladder became an immediate fixture of WWE highlight reels.

Knowing full well what they are capable of in this environment, Christian challenged Benjamin to a Ladder Match. Not only was the ECW Champion looking to test himself, but he wanted to compete in a bout that would steal the show. Benjamin, riding a wave of confidence after defeating Zack Ryder to become the No. 1 Contender for the ECW Championship, was more than up for it.

With Christian’s ECW Championship hanging high above the ring at WWE TLC, these two fearless competitors will pull out all the stops for the opportunity to grasp it. Anyone in the WWE Universe with a fear of heights will want to close their eyes when Captain Charisma and The Gold Standard meet on Dec. 13, live on pay-per-view.

Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show vs. D-Generation X (Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match)

Related Content
Chris Jericho's Superstar profile
Big Show's profile
Triple H's Superstar profile
Shawn Michael's Superstar profile
More on DX
Get your DX Gear at WWEShop.com

At WWE: Tables, Ladders & Chairs, Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show will face their greatest challenge since forming their golden alliance, putting their titles on the line against D-Generation X in a TLC Match.

Although the innovative, new WWE pay-per-view will feature matches utilizing ladders, tables and chairs, the Unified Tag Team Title Match will be the one battle that will incorporate all three.

The TLC is a notorious, career-threatening match like no other in which tables, ladders and chairs are all legal. The object – to ascend and grab the championship gold that is hanging above the ring before your opponents can – becomes even more daunting once the two additional elements of mass mayhem are thrown into the mix.

Ever since Chris Jericho literally handed Big Show tag team gold - using a special clause in his championship contract to replace an injured Edge with The World’s Largest Athlete - the dominant duo has successfully defended their championship against the likes of Batista & Rey Mysterio, The Legacy and Cryme Tyme. With every new challenge that has presented itself, the combined skills of this elite tour de force has continued to rise above, helping to establish them as one of the greatest tag team champions in the majestic annals of WWE.

But this time around, they will be facing more than just a tag team. They will be taking on a squared circle institution. Both together and as individuals, The Game and The Showstopper have proven themselves, time and time again, to be two of the most dangerous Superstars in WWE history. Rather than conform to WWE over the years, their uncanny abilities and charismatic attitude has forced WWE to shape itself around them. In addition to having their reputation of rebellion, anarchy, and sheer will on their side, they also seem to have the reigning champions’ number. In recent months, they have scored two non-title victories over Big Show & Jericho on Monday Night Raw. Could TLC bring them the third? Break it down!

When it comes to TLC, the hardware in the ring is almost as dangerous as the four Superstars who will be wielding it. All of them have seen just about everything there is to see over the years. All of them have proven themselves to be as tough as they are determined. And absolutely all of them have demonstrated exceptional ability in a wide variety of specialty matches. No matter what the outcome, one thing is for certain: The WWE Universe is in for one wild ride from start to finish.

Will Jeri-Show once again prove they are the crème de la crème of tag team excellence? Or will they “bow to the masters?” Find out at WWE: Tables, Ladders and Chairs, Sunday, Dec. 13 at 8/7 CT, only on pay-per-vie

Kofi Kingston vs. Randy Orton

The Kofi Kingston-Randy Orton rivalry has seen nearly everything.

Numerous blindsided attacks: Check
Vicious taunts and terrorization: Check
Defacing of a personalized NASCAR: Check (WATCH)
Execution of a Boom Drop in the stands: Check (WATCH)

Expect this list to grow, nonetheless, when two of the most ferocious combatants and impassioned rivals collide once again at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs at the AT&T Center in San Antonio.

In addition to it being extraordinarily intense, Kingston and The Viper’s confrontation has also been very competitive. At Survivor Series, Kingston was the sole survivor when he pinned Orton to finish off The Viper’s troop. A couple weeks later on Raw, the former WWE Champion got some much-desired revenge when his cohorts, The Legacy, deviously assaulted their animated enemy to help Orton secure a victory.

AT WWE TLC, however, the vivacious Superstar should be completely aware of the kind of conniving tactics The Viper is capable of achieving. From watching out for interference from Cody Rhodes or Ted DiBiase to safeguarding against other crafty maneuvers from his opponent, Kingston appears fully prepared for this highly anticipated bout.

The winner of this contest, moreover, will almost certainly raise their stock in their respective quests to become the No. 1 contender for the WWE Title. Orton, for one, has already made several demands to recent special guest hosts on Raw, including Gov. Jesse Ventura, that he deserves another opportunity at the gold. His WWE TLC adversary, meanwhile, has battled his way to the top of the rankings.

It remains to be seen what new drama will be added to this riveting rivalry, but one thing is for sure, the WWE Universe does not want to miss this match, or any of the highly coveted contests at WWE TLC.

Be sure to watch all the action at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs on Sunday, Dec. 13 at 8/5 PT, exclusively on pay-per-view.

Intercontinental Champion John Morrison vs. Drew McIntyre - Intercontinental Championship Match

At WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs, Intercontinental Champion John Morrison will put his title on the line against the ruthless Drew McIntyre.

Since the moment he set foot on SmackDown, McIntyre’s brutal drive and untamed ability have given the WWE Universe no alternative but to stand up and take notice. The Scottish Superstar was personally signed by WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon, who called McIntyre a future World Champion. He battled his way to victory at Survivor Series, in an all-out explosive Elimination Match. But the biggest highlight of his career came when he pinned The Guru of Greatness on Friday night, just two weeks before the WWE TLC pay-per-view. Without a doubt, McIntyre has showed that he has what it takes to possess the gold and that he will do whatever it takes to make it happen.

But at WWE TLC, if McIntyre hopes to be triumphant, he will have to overcome his toughest opponent to date. The Shaman of Sexy is truly the essence of everything the Intercontinental Championship stands for; a dynamic, ultra-athletic Superstar who is as outspoken as he is talented. Since coming to SmackDown, he has cemented his “A-Lister” reputation as an elite singles competitor, which culminated in the capture of the Intercontinental Title in an explosive match with Rey Mysterio. The Friday Night Delight has met every challenge head-on and risen to the top time and time again. And with the gold on the line, the high-flying Morrison is sure to rise to new heights to keep the coveted symbol of excellence around his waist.

WWE Champion John Cena vs. Sheamus (Tables Match)

These Irish eyes aren’t exactly smiling, but rather, they are directly fixed on the WWE Championship.

In a hazardous Tables Match, Sheamus, the Raw roster’s most recent acquisition, competes for his first major title against WWE Champion John Cena at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs.

One-third of the weaponry described in the namesake of the first-ever pay-per-view event of this kind, a Tables Match is designed for the most aggressive Superstars, using their might to drive one another through the unforgiving pine. The first man to force his opponent through a table will be awarded the match and the WWE Championship.

Rare is it for a Superstar to attain a title match of such magnitude so early in his career, let alone within mere weeks after arriving on the scene of the Monday night juggernaut, Raw. Then again, Sheamus – whose WWE career will peak at roughly six months by the time he steps into the ring with Cena – is a rare warrior of a uniquely fierce breed.

In a match designed to afford opportunity to Superstars who’ve never held the WWE or World Heavyweight Title, The Celtic Warrior earned No. 1 contendership in a most impressive manner, prevailing against Kofi Kingston, Mark Henry and others in a revolutionary Breakthrough Battle Royal.

And while The Champ’s most recent conquests include victories over Randy Orton and even both members of D-Generation X in a single bout, perhaps even Cena is not prepared for the unstoppable wrath of this baleful Irishman.

The Celtic Warrior has recklessly torn through anyone in plain sight, from a WWE timekeeper to a Hall of Famer in Jerry Lawler. Now retired from ring action, veteran Jamie Noble also suffered an unforgettably grisly physical mauling by Sheamus in perhaps the most convincing display of the pale plunderer’s ruthlessness.

The fiery haired Irish Superstar has sworn to surpass the thrashing delivered to Noble when he battles The Champ. Will Sheamus make good on this vow or will Cena, a man known for persevering in the face of the most difficult challenges, find a way to serve defeat to Monday Night Raw’s greatest menace?

Find out who will prevail at the very first WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs event, live on pay-per-view on Sunday, Dec. 13.

Batista vs. World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker (Chair Match)

At WWE Tables Ladders & Chairs, familiar foes will once again clash, as World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker will take on longtime adversary Batista for the World Title in a Chair Match. And both the ominous World Champion and his furious No. 1 Contender will enter the squared circle with a new-found level of intensity.

Just five days after The Animal annihilated his former comrade-in-arms, Rey Mysterio, at Survivor Series, Batista overcame The Undertaker’s brother Kane in a brutal No. 1 Contender’s Match for the World Heavyweight Championship. The hard-fought victory propels The Animal into a sure-fire showdown of destiny with the ominous World Champion.

The Undertaker’s history of legendary battles with Batista has been nothing short of epic. But, with The Phenom’s most recent acquisition of the gold, he has arguably transcended other SmackDown Superstars to reach a plateau of competition all his own. His list of conquests is long and his reputation has become as intimidating as his deadly arsenal of weapons. And now that he holds the World Title as his “holy grail,” is it conceivable that any Superstar will ever be able to overcome his wrath?

SmackDown’s “blue chip acquisition” Batista has shown no sign that he is in any way intimidated by his WWE: TLC nemesis. Since moving from Monday Night Raw, The Animal has been more ferocious than ever, scoring monumental victories over the likes of Matt Hardy and Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show, respectively. He unleashed such a merciless attack on his former friend Mysterio that the official was forced to stop the match. His new-found ruthlessness has fused with outrageous momentum to drive this fierce competitor like never before. The rage-filled Superstar claims that nothing would come between himself and the World Championship and on any given day, he is capable of knocking anyone off the mountain so that he can have it all to himself.

Of all the memorable encounters that have taken place between the two mighty Superstars over the years, it was the earth-shattering circumstances of their recent WWE Bragging Rights Fatal Four Way Championship Match that truly demonstrated how close they are as competitors. Golden fate seemed to be in Batista’s corner as he came within a millisecond of pinning The Phenom. If not for The Master of the 619, The Demon of Death Valley may be challenging him for the gold in two weeks. Instead, The Undertaker finished that match with a devastating Tombstone. Could he call on his lethal finish twice in a row? Or is The Animal just a Batista Bomb away from immortality?

Ex-WWE star Umaga dead at 36

WRESTLING superstar Umaga has died, aged just 36

WRESTLING superstar Umaga has died, aged just 36.

The former WWE intercontinental champion was killed by a heart attack, his family have confirmed.

The Wrestling Observer reported that the Samoan-American star, real name Edward Fatu, fell asleep while watching television in his Houston home on Thursday night.

He was found several hours later by his wife, not breathing and with blood coming out of his nose. He was immediately rushed to a local hospital.

There he was put on life support and his family told to come to Texas as quickly as possible.

Tributes have poured in from around the wrestling world for the man who headlined WrestleMania 23 in 2007 - the biggest selling PPV event in the history of the sport.

On that night he lost to Bobby Lashley, a result that meant billionaire reality TV star Donald Trump got to shave WWE boss Vince McMahon's head.

Lashley has posted a message on his Facebook saying: "Very sad day today. A good friend is gone."

WWE released a statement reading: "WWE would like to express its deepest condolences to Mr Fatu's family, friends and fans on his tragic passing.

"Mr Fatu was under contract with WWE at various time periods and most recently performed under the name Umaga. Mr Fatu's contract was terminated on June 11, 2009."

Former ECW owner and SunSport columnist Paul Heyman said: "The world is minus one very cool Samoan tonight. We offer our most profound condolences to the Fatu Family."

Fatu - trained by his famous uncles, the Wild Samoans Afa and Sika - first wrestled for WWE between 2002 and 2003 under the name of Jamal as part of the 3-Minute Warning tag team with his cousin Matt Anoa'i, aka Rosey.

After being released from his contract, reportedly as a result of getting into a bar fight, he had stints in rival groups TNA and All Japan before returning to the WWE in 2005.

During that time he won the IC title twice and enjoyed memorable feuds with Lashley, Jeff Hardy and John Cena, who he challenged for the company's world championship.

Advertisement
Quantcast

He was fired again by the WWE this June after violating their drug-testing policy for a second time and then refusing to go to rehab.

Umaga most recently competed on the Hulkamania tour of Australia, where he was said to be happy and healthy, amid rumours he was set to return to WWE.

Ken Anderson, better known as Mr Kennedy, was his opponent Down Under and Tweeted: "I'm very thankful to have had a private closed-door conversation with Ecki prior to our match a few days ago in Sydney.

"He insisted that we go out and tear the house down. We both had something to prove that night and in my opinion: Mission Accomplished!

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Fatu family. Ecki absolutely adored his wife and was extremely proud of his children.

"I have so many amazing, funny, and heartwarming (sometimes gut wrenching belly-laughing) memories."

Fatu is the latest in a long line of wrestlers to pass away at a young age.

Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/wrestling/2759556/Umaga-has-died-aged-36-Friends-and-family-pay-tribute-to-former-WWE-WrestleMania-headliner.html#ixzz0YqeIIwIp

Mixed emotions

WASHINGTON D.C. - Mickie James, on one hand, escaped the Verizon Center a searing survivor. The smart, sexy and powerful Diva, on the other hand, left yearning for further retribution.

Captain James, along with her partner and Divas Champion Melina, prevailed in Sunday’s Divas Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match despite Beth Phoenix not accepting her elimination. The Glamazon assaulted Mickie before the official finally forced her to exit. (PHOTOS)

In the preceding weeks, Beth, along with Layla and team captain and Women’s Champion Michelle McCool, affronted James with vicious insults. The devious trio, in fact, labeled her a “pig,” causing the former four-time Women’s Champ to cry on SmackDown. (WATCH)

Despite it being a bittersweet triumph for the two awesome in-ring performers, Mickie and The Red Carpet Diva demonstrated why they are each top-ranked Divas.

Melina, for one, showed how versatile she can be when she pulled off an incredibly acrobatic sunset flip on Michelle to conclude the match. Mickie, meanwhile, can certainly expect a crack at the Women’s Title at some point soon after her impressive performance, which included eliminating Beth and Alicia.

The two dazzling Divas, nevertheless, will likely employ action against their bullies in the upcoming weeks to get some extra desired revenge.

Miz-ery loves company

WASHINGTON, D.C. — To the surprise of many in the WWE Universe, United States Champion The Miz, Drew McIntyre, Jack Swagger, Sheamus & Dolph Ziggler were able to put their major egos aside and work together to take down the explosive squad of Intercontinental Champion John Morrison, Matt Hardy, Finlay, Evan Bourne & Shelton Benjamin in the opening bout of Survivor Series. (PHOTOS)

The match began with Raw rivals Evan Bourne and Jack Swagger squaring off in the center of the ring and quickly turned to chaos from there. Pinfalls quickly piled up as Superstars from each brand clashed, including a showdown between the tough Irishmen Sheamus and Finlay, which The Celtic Warrior won with a devastating front kick.

When the dust began to settle, John Morrison found himself alone and outnumbered against the seriously terrifying triumvirate of The Miz, Sheamus and Drew McIntyre. Throwing caution to the wind, The Shaman of Sexy attempted to overcome the odds with his explosive offense, but he simply couldn’t handle three vicious competitors at once. In the end, Morrison was slammed to the mat by The Celtic Warrior and pinned, giving Team Miz the victory.

The Miz has now racked up two consecutive pay-per-view victories over his former tag team partner. Obviously, this does not sit well with The Guru of Greatness and you can expect these two talented young Superstars to meet again.

Animalistic fury runs wild on Rey

WASHINGTON, D.C. - At Survivor Series, Batista unleashed the full extent of his unrelenting fury on his former friend Rey Mysterio, administering a merciless attack that left the official no choice but to stop the match. Match photos

Though the high-octane Mysterio showed the WWE Universe every bit of his heart from the opening bell, battling for the offensive with everything he had, the enraged Animal would eventually descend upon his prey with absolute havoc. In the final moments of the match, the fans erupted as Mysterio looked to be heading to a huge victory of redemption with the 619. However, as Mysterio attempted to channel the late Eddie Guerrero with a follow up frog splash, Batista’s raised knees signaled the beginning of a shocking end.

The vicious Animal proceeded to level Mysterio with an earth-shattering spear, a thunderous spinebuster and three devastating Batista Bombs, never once going for a cover. It was clear that he had no interest in simply winning. He wanted Mysterio to be humiliated. Even after the official attempted to end the relentless punishment by signaling for the bell, Batista’s rampage continued with the execution of a post match spinebuster onto an unforgiving steel chair. Mysterio was left in agonizing pain at the hands of a Superstar that once meant everything to him.

Standing side by side, the two former World Champions have won tag team gold (Watch), grieved the loss of a “family member” (Watch Eddie Guerrero Tribute), and forged a powerful bond in numerous squared circle battles. But when both Superstars, along with CM Punk, were selected to challenge World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker at WWE Bragging Rights in a Fatal Four Way Match, the fuse was lit for an explosive parting of ways.

In a match where every Superstar would be for himself, Mysterio stopped Batista from a possible pin over The Deadman. The Undertaker went on to triumph, pinning Batista with a devastating Tombstone. Only seconds later, in a horrific moment that the WWE Universe will never forget, The Animal suddenly snapped, attacking the stunned Master of the 619 with an indescribable assault.

Five days later on SmackDown, Mysterio tried to mend the mighty rip in their heartfelt alliance, but Batista would have none of it. Convinced his closest ally cost him the World Title, the stone-faced Superstar walked out of the ring with more rage in his eyes than ever before.

When SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long made a match between the two former friends at Survivor Series, things went from bad to worse. At the official contract signing, The Animal demanded that Mysterio sign a “Hold Harmless Agreement,” preventing legal action against him for anything he might do to his opponent at the pay-per-view. After reluctantly signing it, The Ultimate Underdog proceeded to humiliate his newfound adversary, flipping the signing table onto him, adding insult to injury as he stepped onto it while making his exit.

Two days before their pay-per-view showdown, after Batista cost Mysterio his match with Tyson Kidd by disqualification, the masked Superstar found an opening to dish out another embarrassing hit-and-run attack on the man he once called a brother. An irate Batista failed to catch Mysterio and was left with nothing but egg on his face for the second week in a row.

Though Mysterio was bound and determined to show Batista a side of him he has never seen before at Survivor Series, in the end, his heart was not enough to overcome the furious bite of The Animal. And now that Batista has released his insane wrath upon a Superstar he once called family, no one on SmackDown is safe.

Tick-tick-BOOM!

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Tag Team Matches are always competitive, but rarely are they as closely contested as the epic battle between Team Kingston and Team Orton. Though each of the 10 competitors fought hard, ultimately, it was Team Captain Kofi Kingston himself that carried the day, pinning his nemesis, and last remaining competitor, Randy Orton to win the match for his team.

Team Kingston and Team Orton had a lot going for them heading into their Elimination Tag Team Match, as both squads were comprised of some of the most talented Superstars that SmackDown, Raw and ECW had to offer. Just how evenly-matched the contest was became clear as the night progressed, with each team losing a member one by one until only Kingston was left on his side. Suddenly, however, the situation had swung firmly in his opponents’ favor, as Team Orton boasted two eligible competitors: CM Punk and The Viper himself.

Not one to be deterred by stiff odds, Kingston fought onward against SmackDown’s CM Punk, pinning The Straightedge Superstar after a hard-fought series of near-falls for both competitors. As soon as Punk was vanquished however, Orton was ready to spring into action. Though The Viper might have boasted more in-ring experience than Kingston, the athletic young Superstar showed that he has just what it takes to compete on WWE’s highest level. Leaping into the air and immediately connecting with Trouble in Paradise, the rising star defeated Orton to win the match for his team, pinning two former World Champions in the span of six seconds.