Raw Rating for 7/16

3.4

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Raw Rating for 07/09/2007

Last night's Raw did a 3.37 rating with a 3.04 first hour and a 3.69 second hour.

That's the lowest Raw Rating on a non-holiday in quite some time and I've got no idea what the reason/excuse/rationalization is going to be.

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What will open Raw?

King Booker Vs. Bobby Lashley will open Raw, that's what.

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Tonight's Special Episode Of 'WWE RAW' Is In The Books

- An emotional Vince McMahon stood in the ring (at Corpus Christi, Texas' vacant American Bank Center) and addressed the "alleged" demise of his character (Mr. McMahon), separating that from the very real demise of Chris Benoit and his family. McMahon went on to offer his condolences, and introduce a tribute to the life and career of Benoit. This segment again aired at each of the remaining hours.



- Most of the footage came courtesy of 'Hard Knocks: The Chris Benoit Story,' including that used in a video tribute (to the tune of Finger Eleven's 'One Thing'), so in many cases, I won't go into specifics.

- Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler, sitting in their usual spots, spoke about how difficult tonight's show was for them, then introduced footage from 2004's 'Royal Rumble,' where Benoit earned a spot in the 'WrestleMania' main event.

- Steve Austin pit over Benoit's work ethic, saying no matter how big or small the crowd, he'd work to the fullest extent of his ability. Austin closed by speaking of his love for Benoit.

- Michael Cole and JBL, sitting in their usual spots, spoke about Benoit's love for his family. JBL, in particular, appeared to be hit hard by the loss, speaking about how he and Chris had recently spoke about turning back the clock.

- John Cena (fighting tears) said this was probably the most-difficult thing he's ever had to do, and he wasn't sure how to react. Cena believed it was best to celebrate Benoit's life, as he was a good man and he lived for the sport. Cena hoped, as he has learned to do, appreciate everything Benoit had done. He regrets not telling Chris how much he loved him.

- Joey Styles and Tazz, sitting in their usual spots, spoke about how excited they were to hear about Benoit coming to ECW in 1994, and after the recent draft. They introduced last Tuesday's bout, the last of Benoit's televised bouts, where Benoit faced Elijah Burke (to earn his ECW title match at 'Vengeance,' which he ended up missing, as he hadn't returned from Atlanta or updated the company on his status, getting us to today's discovery of the bodies).

- A crying CM Punk spoke of his disappointment (because he didn't get to wrestle Benoit at the pay-per-view) and guilt (after learning of his death), saying he hoped to please Benoit, whom he considered a hero of his.

- Ross and Lawler spoke about Benoit's passion to have good matches, and one of his favorite opponents (and good friends) was Dean Malenko. They then introduced a match between Benoit and Malenko, which took place at 1996's 'Hog Wild.' If you recall, Nancy was at ringside for this bout, which was acknowledged by Ross and Lawler.

- Malenko was next to speak on Benoit, saying Benoit enriched his life, and he'll miss the support Benoit provided him in fifteen-years of friendship. People often thought Benoit was arrogant, but Malenko said he was just a very private and quiet individual. Malenko said Benoit was unselfish and one of the best he's met in the ring. Malenko also talked how it was to lose two (Benoit and Eddie Guerrero) of his best friends, as he called them, "The real three amigos," in reference to the triple suplexes. It was Malenko's idea for Benoit to use the 'Cripple Crossface.' Malenko said Benoit and Guerrero were back together and probably arguing.

- Cole and JBL spoke about the high level of respect Benoit had earned from his peers and the audiences, and what a privilege it was to call Benoit's matches. JBL said Benoit wasn't a great talker, but he was a great talker, and he was so happy to face his friend in April 2006, where the US title was up for grabs on 'SmackDown.'

- Stephanie McMahon (choking back tears) said Benoit was an amazing wrestler, and was passionate about the sport and his family. Benoit was genuinely happy for her, when she married Triple H, and for the couple, when they later had a child. Steph considered Benoit to be her friend.

- Chavo Guerrero (also fighting tears) spoke about how close Benoit was to him and his family. Benoit was the first person Chavo called in the wake of Eddie Guerrero's death. Chavo thought it was almost as difficult to tell Benoit, as it was to hear the news, because of how hard it was for Benoit to hear what happened. Just before Eddie's death, Chavo was lucky to be with him, and just a few days ago, Chavo was lucky to be with Benoit and hid family in Atlanta. Chavo also loved working with Benoit, crediting and thanking Benoit for teaching so much. Chavo doesn't say this to many, but he loves Benoit.

- Styles and Tazz spoke about Benoit's reputation in Japan, especially in matches against Jushin Liger, then introduced footage of Pegasus Kid (Benoit) beating Liger for the IWGP Junior-Heavyweight title (which took place in 1990).

- William Regal said, for now, he just wanted to say Benoit worked harder than anyone in pro wrestling and was the absolute best.

- Ross and Lawler spoke about another of Benoit's great rivalries (this one, with Chris Jericho), and Benoit's idolization of Dynamite Kid, then introduced Benoit's ladder match (for the Intercontinental title) against Jericho, which took place at 2001's 'Royal Rumble.' After the bout, Ross spoke about how upset Jericho was to learn of Benoit's death. Lawler spoke about how Benoit didn't wrestle for the money, and how intense he could be in the squarde circle. Soon, we would receive a look at Benoit's winning of the World title (at 2004's 'WrestleMania').

- Styles introduced Edge's thoughts on Benoit's death. Fighting back tears, Edge said he'd now lost two of the three people he could turn to in pro wrestling (Eddie and Benoit?). Edge said he remember seeing Benoit in Stampede Wrestling, and was happy to later work with him. When Edge had personal issues of his own, he was able to go to Benoit for comfort. Edge couldn't think of one person with a bad word to say about Benoit. When they last wrestled (a couple of weeks ago on 'SmackDown'), Benoit smiled while coming through the curtain. Edge recently saw Daniel in Dothan, Alabama, and Edge thought Benoit was lucky. Edge doesn't understand these type of things, and knows Benoit would be upset at him for crying, but he misses him.

- Cole and JBL spoke about how emotional Benoit could be about his work, and how Benoit had once ejected those without that same respect, then introduced more another music video (which may not have come from the 'Hard Knocks' DVD), although I didn't recognize the tune.

- A teary HHH spoke about how difficult to sum up Benoit's life in a few minutes. In his opinion, Benoit was all about respect in all aspects of his life. HHH recalled a story, where Benoit made a young wrestler do one-thousand squats, because he had some unkind words for Shawn Michaels. Benoit did the squats with the wrestler, then, the next day, made him do five-hundred more. HHH felt everyone respected Benoit, including himself, more than anyone else, and they'd meet again.

- Ross and Lawler seconded HHH's thoughts about respect, then closed the program by introducing Benoit's World-title defeat of HHH and Michaels (at 'WrestleMania 20'). Lawler said he'd remembered Chris as a great competitor, mentioned how tragic the loss of the entire family was, and said everyone should tell their family how important they are to them. Ross said he'd remember Benoit's passion and ability, and talked about how important the finish of the match was.

PS: Because I know I did not do the best job of recapping the program, I've provided links for the testimonials and 'Finger Eleven' video. I'm sure wwe.com will soon have even more from the show.

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Raw Rating for 06/18

4.1 or 4.2

that's up over the past few weeks...and that bothers me.

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WWE RAW 6/19/07 Live Coverage

Welcome to the first post-Draft edition of RAW. It will be interesting to see how the new wrestlers on the roster make an impact and how the "Who Killed Vince?" storyline unfolds.


We get a video package of Vince's limo exploding and "eye witness" accounts.

Mick Foley is in the ring now and says that his comments last Monday were inappropriate and apologizes for them which gets boos from the fans then Orton interrupts him. He says that Mick's apology is insincere, that his latest book is a hack job at Vince and that Mick had motivation then King Booker comes out. JR finally welcomes us to RAW and Booker says to look at Lashley instead and gives some fairly good motivation for Lashley to do it which brings him out. Lashley shoves Booker down and he rolls out of the ring and the Champ is now here. He calls Booker and Orton Cojack and Ace Ventura and that this isn't Law and Order. He says to put all this in perspective and says that Vince has made plenty of enemies. Cena then asks for everybody to let the Federal investigator take this over and Coach comes out and reminds us that all these men are in the WWE Championship match on Vengance and that he is in temporary control. He then announces the Main Event for tonight is Lashley/Cena vs. Booker/Orton then has Mick go up against Umaga.

Commercial.

London/Kendrick vs. World's Greatest Tag Team. London and Haas start out with London getting a quick nearfall but Haas taking back control with help from Shelton who is now tagged in and gets a nearfall. King has pointed a finger at Paul London asking why he was smiling last week then Kendrick gets the tag, gets a pin but it's broken up by Shelton. London keeps Shelton outside as Kendrick gets the pin.

Backstage with Daniel Beck and Coach.

Commercial.

Carlito has now come out to the ring. He extends his deepest sympathies to the McMahon's and is glad that Torrie Wilson and Ric Flair are off RAW. He goes on about Flair then Sandman interrupts him and chases him out of the ring.

Commercial.

We now have a video from Cryme Tyme saying that Vince was a capitalist which brings us the Cryme Tyme Shopping Network of coffee, steak, trash can and much more to get McMahon DNA and Daniel Beck comes in to ask them a few questions.

Cade and Murdoch are now out as Daivari takes on Jeff Hardy. Jeff takes control early on but Daivari catches him on the top rope and gets a nearfall. Exchange of punches with Jeff taking control with a front suplex for 2 then Whisper in the Wind for another nearfall. Jeff hits a nice suplex and gets 2 the Daivari fights back and gets a nearfall. Jeff hits the Twist of Fate the the Swanton for the win. Cade grabs the ring announcers mic and says that he and Matt have shown them unsportsmanlike conduct and his reply was to fly right onto them.

Commercial.

Backstage with Coach flipping out. The Iron Sheik is in the house!!! Sheik says he wants his own talk show on RAW and Coach considers it. Simmons comes in and, of course, says "DAMN!"

It looks like we're going to have a Love Triangle storyline going on with Maria, Regal and Morella. That has the potential to be entertaining

Grisham is talking to Vince's limo driver. He says that he got a personal call and left the limo to take it.

Mick is shown walking down a hallway.

Commercial.

We get the same video from the start of the show. Guess it's for people who are just tuning in. I have a funny feeling this will be played on both ECW and Smackdown.

Mick Foley vs. Umaga. I can't decide whether this will be a squash match or not. Mick jumpstarts the match but the bell hasn't rung yet. They make their way to the annouce tables with Umaga's head bouncing off the announce table. Mick hots Umaga in the head with a chair and Umaga replies with a kick to the head then the butt bump by the steps and the ref has thrown this out. This wasn't even a match so my decision was made for me.

Beck is now talking to Cena then we cut to a white limo pulling up.

Commercial.

Mick is gettin checked over by a doctor then Beck tries to talk to him but the doctor tells him to come back.

Kennedy is now in the ring. He says he's sick to his stomach about losing Vince and getting drafted to RAW. He didn't get along with the Smackdown audience and hates the RAW crowd because they have no respect for talent. Says he was a good friend of Vince and the fans wish they were. Mr. Kennedy has joined the Vince McMahon Kiss My Ass Club and says he will dedicate his career to him.

The driver comes out of the limo and stands in front of the passenger side door.

Commercial.

They finally get a "In Memory of Sherri Martell" graphic up whic they usually put at the start of the show.

Melina/Jillian vs. Mickie/Candice. Jillian's voice is terrible and I'm glad Mickie came out to stop her. Jillian and Candice start with Candice getting a nearfall early on but Melina distracts her for Jillian to get control. Jillian gets a nearfall then tags in Melina who gets a nearfall then tags Jillian back in. Melina noe back in and gets a nearfall but Candice fights back and gets the hot tag to Mickie who stops a pinfall when Jillian comes in and hits a rana on her. Mickie hits a neckbreaker on Melina but Jillian breaks it up and they double team Mickie. Candice takes Jillian out, Mickie gets a nearfall and Melina answers back with a unique leg drop for the win.

Commercial.

We get yet another video, this time of Vince getting in his limo and it blowing up. They even put the initial explosion in slow motion then show the firemen putting it out. We cut back to the limo again with the driver still standing there.

Main Event time. Lashley and Booker start us out with Lashley taking control early on hitting a hard suplex for a nearfall but Booker thumbs Lashley in the eye but still can't get control. Cena tagged in and Booker runs over to tag Orton. Lashley now in and they double team both Orton and Booker as we go to commercial. Back with Orton in control thanks to some double teaming from Booker and Orton. Cena fights back but Booker and Orton keep him from tagging Lashley. Booker goes for a pin but Lashley breaks it up but Booker still working on Cena. Orton now tagged in and stomps Cena for a bit then gets a nearfall. Cena fights his way over to his corner but Orton cuts him off again with a headlock. Cena breaks the headlock and both men hit clotheslines and finally tags Lashley in and T-Bone suplexes Booker. Cena takes Orton out then Booker kicks Cena. Booker with the blind tag to Orton. Booker takes a spinebuster so Orton can RKO Lashley for the win.

We cut back to the limo as the driver opens the door and Stephanie McMahon comes out.

Commercial.

Backstage with Coach and Stephanie. Coach offers to escort Stephanie to the ring but she declines.

Stephanie has now come out to the ring. She announces next week as a 3-hour celebration and starts to break down. She says a few more things then leaves the ring crying to end the show.

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WWE: 2007 Supplemental Draft results

http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/supplementaldraft07

-- Pick No. 1: Raw selects Paul London & Brian Kendrick
-- Pick No. 2: SmackDown selects Kenny Dykstra
-- Pick No. 3: ECW selects Viscera
-- Pick No. 4: Raw selects Sandman
-- Pick No. 5: SmackDown selects Hardcore Holly
-- Pick No. 6: ECW selects The Miz
-- Pick No. 7: Raw selects Daivari
-- Pick No. 8: SmackDown selects The Major Brothers
-- Pick No. 9: Raw selects William Regal
-- Pick No. 10: SmackDown selects Victoria
-- Pick No. 11: Raw selects Jillian Hall
-- Pick No. 12: SmackDown selects Eugene
-- Pick No. 13: ECW selects Johnny Nitro

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I watched Raw

for the first time in lord knows how long I watched Raw from start to finish. It will be the last time for a long time and that was before the ending that I'm sure will have them rolling in the isles of Israel.

My thoughts on the show behind the cut:



Raw drafted: Lashley, Kennedy, Booker/Sharmell and Snitsky.
Lost: Flair, Chris Masters, Torrie Wilson and Great Khali.
Mission accomplished, the real reason for this thing was to rebuild Raw and that's what happened.

ECW Drafted: Chris Benoit and the Boogeyman
Lost: Snitsky and Bobby Lashley
Well, I guess Benoit gets to be a midsized fish in a small sized bathtub.

Smackdown Drafted: Ric Flair, Chris Masters, Torrie Wilson and Great Khali
Lost: Chris Benoit, Boogeyman, Booker/Sharmell and Mr. Kennedy.
Its a lucky thing this brand doesn't have single branded PPV's to worry about.

I love how the "random draft" worked. Each side lost as many people as it gained, no more, no less, and unless they explained that this couldn't happen early in the show I love how the thing never accidentally drafted someone that was already on the brand picking. That's the world's most perfect computer.

The Battle Royal made no sense, and I saw the Snitsky finish coming from a mile away. The Battle Royal didn't make sense for exactly the reason pointed out on commentary. This was when it made sense that guys would want to work as a team.

The Mr. McMahon tributes were ok for the most part. I am disappointed that Sheiky didn't use the word "Humble" in his...it would've gotten a pop the likes of which would have only been topped if the Rock had showed up.

The ending...well, it makes me look forward to iMPACT.

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WWE RAW 6/11/07 Live Coverage

Hi everybody! I'm joining RAW in progress since I got off work at 7pm.



I saw the finish of Edge/Cena with Edge getting the countout victory and Great Khali has been drafted to Smackdown.

Jesse Ventura gave us a video message saying that Vince hasn't earned the title of "Mister" and that he's a dictator.

Backstage with Coach who announces what we already know about Vengance being a night of champions and the main event is going to WWE Championship Challenge match meaning that any former World Champ can challenge I believe.

Commercial break.

Carlito vs. CM Punk is up now. Punk in control early on but misses a high knee which allows Carlito to gain control and hit an awesome dropkick on Punk in mid air getting a nearfall. Carlito is working over the ribs of Punk then puts on Body Scissors but Punk reverses it into a Boston Crab and Carlito breaks it by grabbing the bottom rope but Punk kicks him in the head for 2. Punk now hits the high knee in the corner then tries for a bulldog but Carlito stops it then hits the Backstabber. Punk rolls out but Carlito rolls him back in to get a nearfall. Punk reverses the Backstabber then makes Carlito Go To Sleep for the win which means that The Boogeyman has been drafted to ECW.

Snoop Dogg has now left a video for Vince and says that Cena will kick his ass sooner or later, Austin already has then reminds Vince when he had his head in Big Show's butt. I should've known this was gonna backfire on Vince.

Commercial break.

Another video package of Vince McMahon. Nothing spectacular here.

Mick Foley has now come out to the top of the entrance ramp. He has thrown his hat into the open WWE Championship match then begins to talk about Vince. He starts by saying nice things then turns around and blasts him like everybody else has tonight and asks if Vince has any real friends and also gets his cheap pop in. He reads a list of wrestlers and celebrities and the majority of them were cheered then Mick says all of them declined not to come.

Commercial.

Our next match is Balls Mahoney vs. Umaga. I think RAW just got their draft pick. Balls got Samoan Spiked so hard that he spasmed on the ground which means that King Booker has been drafted to RAW.

Commercial.

Our next celebrity that talks to Vince is Steve-O. He gives us a poem and was actually nice to Vince.

Bobby Lashley vs. Chris Benoit is up now. Both men start out with some ground moves with Lashley taking control but Benoit gets to the ropes and they go at it again and they break, stand up and Lashley gets a nearfall. Both men trading blows with Lashley getting the upperhand for another nearfall. Benoit punches and chops away then gets a snap suplex for 2. Lashley fights back and gets a backbreaker for 2. Lashley gains control and shoulder tackles Benoit into the turnbuckle but Benoit gets the Crossface on and Lashley gets to the ropes. Lashley avoids the Sharpshooter, Benoit avoids a power move then hits the 3 german suplexes but Lashely gets up right away. Benoit gets the Sharpshooter in but Lashley powers out the hits a powerslam for the win which means Chris Benoit has been drafted to ECW.

Another video, this time from Donald Trump. He says that he might just have his own appreciation night sometime.

Commercial.

Ashley is live via satellite. She says she's sorry for spilling the coffee on Vince and then goes what he's done to other Divas. They show a video of Trish Stratus barking like a dog and getting stripped to her lingerie in 2001 then Ashley says that 2 Divas are going to come out and do the same thing now. The bad news is that it's, of course, Moolah and Mae Young.

Commercial.

We now have a video from "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka and none other than the Iron Sheik!!! I have no idea what Sheik said but he sounded as funny as always. The only thing wrong with this was their was no humbling.

We now have US Champ MVP taking on IC Champ Santino Morella, the only match I thought would happen tonight. MVP in control and gets a couple nearfalls. Both men exchange kicks with MVP gaining control and gets another nearfall. Morella reverses a submission then gets a nearfall. Series of reversals and MVP gets that wicked kick in the turnbuckle and gest the win which means Torrie Wilson is drafted to Smackdown.

Commercial.

We get a video from Bret "Hitman" Hart who says the only way to appreciate Vince is with fists.

The Miz vs. Snitsky. All I have to say is that ECW is getting another Draft pick. Snitsky does too much of a post match beatdown so the ref overturns the decision so Chris Masters is drafted to Smackdown.

We get a video Bobby "The Brain" Heenan. He did a great joke about the McMahon walk.

Commercial.

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper has now come out on top of the entrance ramp. Piper shows us a video package of what DX did to him last year then what Austin has done to him then what happened to him at WM 23.

Commercial.

Our next video comes from Mark Cuban. I have no idea who this guy is.

Diva's match! Candice is taking on Kristal. She doesn't look too bad but I would've went with Michelle McCool. Candice in firm control and gets a nearfall. Candice wins with an awesome spin kick so RAW now gets ECW Wordl Champion Bobby Lashley. Coach has now come out and says that since Lashley is now part of RAW he can no longer be the ECW World Champion. Lashley gives Coach the title then grabs his mic and says he's still a champion and will prove it on RAW.

the next video is from Bob Costas. Bob says he doesn't appreciate it that he wasn't considered for Gene Okerlund's spot as an announcer. He talked about the interview he did with Vince years ago.

Commercial.

Video of Cena at a celebrity car race.

Jeff Hardy vs. Elijah Burke vs. Batista. I smell a draft pick for Smackdown. Burke tries to get Batista outside but Hardy comes up from behind and takes him back in bu Batista takes control. Jeff avoids a Batista Bomb and another move then hits the Swanton but Burke breaks it up. Burke now in firm control but Jeff fights back, keeps Batista outside but misses a Swanton. Batista now back in and hits Spinebusters on both men the Batista Bombs Burke which means the next person drafted to Smackdown is "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair!

Our next video is from Capt. Lou Albano. He calls Vince a punk but he doesn't care.

Commercial.

"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes has now come out to the entrance ramp. He has one of the best entrance themes ever! He says you don't like Vince but you gotta respect him.

Commercial.

This video is from "Mean" Gene Okerlund. He was dripping with sarcasm.

Matt Hardy, William Regal, Chris Masters, Chavo and Mark Henry represent Smackdown. Dreamer, Sandman, Cor Von, Stryker and Thorn represent ECW. Nitro, Dykstra, Eugene, Visera and Orton represent RAW. Smackdown and ECW have a good showing but RAWs representation is lacking a lot. Stryker is out followed by Sandman, Regal, Chavo, Dreamer, Thorn, Vis and we go to commercial. Kenny and Eugene have been eliminated during the break followed by Cor Von, Nitro, Masters, Henry then Matt Hardy so the next 2 people drafted to RAW are Snitsky (CRAP!) and Mr. Kennedy (meh).

Backstage with Vince who walks out of a room with a crazy look on his face.

Commercial.

Our final vido fro the night is "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. He says he appreciates the oppurtunity to make Vince's life hell. Perfect way to end those videos.

Vince has now come out. I missed what he did at the start of the show but I heard from the announcers that he read some prepared statement. Vince startd to talk but drops the mic, looks around then leaves the ring. He stops at the top of the entry ramp, looks back then walks all the way out. We follow Vince backstage as he goes by all the WWE Superstars and is stopped by Coach who re directs him to his limo. We follow him outside now as he gets into his limo and it blows up! We see the limo in flames as the show ends.

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Iron Sheik and a bunch of unimportant people will have words for Mr. McMahon tonight

details here

I don't know who most of these people are, Steve Austin, Mick Foley, Bret Hart, Donald Trump, Mark Cuban, Roddy Piper. However, Sheiky Baby will have some pleasure for Me to pleasure for Mr. McMahon and maybe God and Jesus if there's time.

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WWE Raw Preview for 06/11

here is the link.

All the matches tomorrow will be interpromotional, I guess the corpse isn't quite dead just yet, and the winner of each match will earn his brand a draft pick. The first match of the evening will be Edge Vs. John Cena.

This is the stupidest thing I've heard of since someone in TNA decided that the words battle royal should be proceeded by the word reverse. Thank God that leagues that run actual drafts don't opporate this way. Its stupid, but then I don't care because its not like I've got to cover it.

If I were going to book this, I'd have every match end with a screwy finish and don't think we won't see at least one. Yes, I freely admit that I'd screw fans over if given the opportunity, that's the difference between me and every promoter ever...I admit it.

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WWE announces list of celebrities for monday's Raw

The list is here and when Mean Gene is considered a celebrity, the bottom of the barrel has been entirely scraped away and that's what's left.

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Raw Rating

Monday's Raw did a 3.8 up from last week's holiday version which did a 3.2 but excluding that it is also up slightly from the 3.7 it had done the prior few weeks. Maybe people were tuning in to see what happened at ONS, I don't know. I expect last week's number to be down slightly but only because of the extra hour, I think the 2 regularly seen hours will do just fine. The first hour on the 3-hour raws has tended to be lower than the regular 2 by a considerable amount so I'm going with the trend. We'll see if the hook of the draft and Mr. McMahon appreciation will be enough to drive up interest but I should note that the latter event isn't all that uncommon if you think about it so for many it could've been greeted with the cries of "again?"

As for the draft, we'll see if people being on all the brands has hurt interest in a draft that much. I actually tend to think no, even if others would say that it would. My feeling is that they've not done a draft in a couple of years so it will seem special plus you get people foolishly thinking that things will happen like HHH going to Smackdown even if those things never have a hope in hell of coming to pass...John Cena to ECW being another example. So it could hurt but maybe not as much as people would speculate.

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WWE RAW 6/4/07 Live Coverage: Summer Vacation edition

Welcome to a somewhat special Summer Vacation edition of RAW live coverage. The reason I call it this is because I have taken the whole week off work. All I've read about One Night Stand is who won.



The Champ is here and has come out to the ring. Was anybody stupid enough to think that Khali would win? Certainly nobody here at the Times. He talks about his match last night then goes on to the draft then Vince interrupts him. He's walking quite gingerly after his match last night. Vince says that Cena is there to embarass, humiliate and let everybody know he isn't a world champ anymore. He reminds us what his name is but Cena turns his back on him before he can finish. He then turns back around and says that Vince is tired and doesn't know what he's doing. Vince tries to say his full name again but Cena cuts him off again saying he's losing patience and that Vince has lost his mind. Vince says he hasn't lost a thing then sets up a WWE Title match with Cena facing Umaga and Khali tonight. Vince getting thrown completely out of whack after losing the ECW World Title is totally believable. The facial expressions and crazy sounds helped too.

Commercial.

Our first match of the night is Cryme Tyme w/Candice Michelle taking on Kenny Dykstra and Melina. Candice has on matching clothing teaming with Cryme Tyme and Nitro and JTG start out. Quite an acrobatic kick from Nitro who tags in Kenny. Double team move from Kenny and Nitro but Shad breaks it up. Hot tag to Shad who runs over Kenny and Nitro. He goes for a pin but Kenny breaks it up. Candice and Melina go at it which allows Cryme Tyme to double team Nitro for the win.

Backstage with Maria and Morella. They talk about the IC Title for a bit then Vince comes in. Vince tells Morella to get out to the ring and defend his title. He actually says "Get" a few more times with a crazy look on his face.

Commercial.

Santino Morella is defending the IC Title against, of course, Chris Masters. This shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone since Morella and Masters have been feuding. If it is then...surprise! Nice back heel trip gets Morella 2 then he grunts and Masters answers that with a hot shot into the ropes. Masters tries to apply the Masterlock but Morella gets out of it then rolls him up for the win. This has got to be the most the IC Title has been defended lately and Morella has been doing an excellent job.

Commercial.

Hardys, Cade & Murdoch are backstage. C&M want another shot at the Tag Titles but only when they're at 100%. Vince shows up yet again and has the Hardys face C&M tonight. He then goes over to Flair and Torrie. They talk for a bit then Vince puts Torrie in a match with Carlito. Flair tells Vince "you win some, you lose some" then Vince has him go up against Randy Orton. This has been a great way to set up matches.

Commercial.

Randy Orton vs. Ric Flair is up now. I haven't heard anything about Flair needing time off or getting released so this is either Flair getting a win or Orton getting the win but not doing anything to Flair's head. Flair lights up Orton to start then stomps on his head a few times. Orton reverses an Irish Whip into a powerslam and we go to an unexpected commercial. Back from commercial with Falir applying the Figure Four but Orton gets to the ropes. Orton regains control, gets a nearfall then mounts and punches Flair on the mat. Flair chops Orton and he replies with a dropkick for 2. King suggests that the rest of the Superstars stay in the locker room until next week and I have to agree. Orton rverses a Figure Four into a small package for 2 then punches away. Flair answers with chops then a poke in the eye for 2. Orton reverses a whip into the turnbuckle then clotheslines Flair in the corner who does his usual flop. Flair fights back again which makes Orton go outside. Flair follows but gets suplexed. Orton brings Flair back in the ring then does that running kick to the head of Flair. Flair gets up slowly but runs into an RKO for the win. The ref prevents Orton from doing a post match beatdown.

Commercial.

Carlito vs. Torrie is now up. Torrie come out with a huge bandage on her and Varlito looks concerened and tells Torrie to just walk out. This all just a ploy so he can hit the Backstabber and get a quick pin. Torrie must be getting more training to take the Backstabber for 2 weeks straight.

Hardys are shown walking down a hallway talking as we go to commercial.

Hardys vs. C&M is up. Why did the announcer just call them the current Tag Team Champions? It's not like all the former champions carry around their belts. Even if they did, would they call them "Former Tag Team Champions"? Enough rambling, onto the match. Matt and Cade start out with Matt rolling Cade up for a nearfall. Cade takes control, gets a nearfall then tags in Murdoch who also gets a nearfall. Matt fights back then tags in Jeff and they do a doubleteam move for 2. Quck tags now from the Hardys who do more doubleteaming which sends Murdoch to the outside. Jeff goes for a high risk move and nearly misses Murdoch and hurts his knee as we go to commercial. Back from commercial with Matt in the ring with Murdoch. Tag to Cade who gets a nearfall then works on the injured ribs. Murdoch back in who continues to work on the ribs and gets a nearfall. Quick tags from C&M. Cade hits a spinebuster for 2. Murdoch in now and Matt tries to fight back. Matt hits an Inverted DDT which allows him to tag Jeff who cleans house despite a bad knee. He goed up for a Swanton but Murdoch catches him. Matt sends Murdoch out but Jeff misses the Swanton which allows Cade to get the pin. Jeff had his foot on the rope but Murdoch got it off. C&M have finally attacked Hardys with the Tag Belts.

Backstage with Coach and Vince. Vince is being very cryptic about something bad coming but says he'll feel better next week with the Draft. He tells Coach to go out to the ring.

Commercial.

Coach is now out on the entrance ramp talking about the Draft. He also lets us know that next week is also Mr. McMahon Appreciation Night. This was short and sweet which is a good thing.

Main Event time. Khali comes out to the ring as we go to commercial. Back from commercial for the other entrances. The announcer now gives us intros which is certainly different. I would like to mention that the Umaga/Khali/Shane McMahon segment from last week is hilarious and I wish they could've found some way to do another segment like that this week. Khali is taking on Cena first as Umaga goes outside. Cena sent to the outside now and Khali follows him and throws him into the steps. Umaga grabs the steps and tries to hit Cena but he ducks and it hits Khali. Cena and Umaga now in the ring with Umaga in control. Cena tries to pick up Umaga but Umaga falls on him for 2. Cena tries to fight back but gets a Sidewalk Slam to get Umaga another nearfall. Khali is now back in the ring and is very displeased with Umaga. They now trade blows with Khali coming out on top who then turns his attention to Cena. Cena tries for an FU but Khali elbows him in the jaw. Big bodyslam from Khali who then hits a legdrop but Cena gets his foot on the rope. Umaga tries to come back in but Khali clubs him back out. Umaga gets back in, ties Khali in the ropes then misses his butt bump on Cena. Khali tries for the double chokeslam but Umaga hits him with the Spike. Cena then shoulderblocks Umaga outside then FUs Khali for the win. Khali gets pinned twice in 2 days so I think his push is pretty much done. Cena celebrates at the top of the entrance ramp and Umaga throws a fit as the show ends.

Another solid RAW with Vince pulling off being crazy very well. There also wasn't much done with the Divas. This is good in that it shows they actually had more matches planned this week but it's bad because we don't get anything like the Battle Royal last week. Speaking of which, I hope Michelle McCool gets drafted to RAW because she is smoking!

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One Night Stand Note

With the news that Randy Orton and RVD will open the show, this is another on a long list of instances where Ric will experience his climax early.

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Clueless writer writes clueless article

Slate's Troy Patterson examines how USA became the #1 network on cable

Now anyone who reads this blog will know the answer. It is because of the presence of WWE and specifically Raw

Here is the extent to which the WWE is mentioned in the article.

And then we have the third and biggest of the cable networks trying, not quite paradoxically, to carve out a mass-market niche. The USA Network is the top-rated basic-cable channel in primetime and supposedly NBC Universal's most lucrative asset. It's kind of, like, hot. It's reclaimed WWE from Spike, and its numbers are up with young men.

The article praises shows that you and I don't likely watch some of which I've not even heard of and misses the point. Take WWE off of USA and that #1 rating goes away. Take off whatever the fuck else is on that channel, leave WWE and you've still got a strong contender for the top spot if not still outright number 1.

If you've got the number 1 rated show on cable that doesn't include the phrase "Monday Night Football", then you're off to a pretty good start. All I know is USA dropped from #1 when WWE was gone and now that its back, so is the top ranking.

Sometimes, the simplest answer is the most obvious. However, most of the time it doesn't make for the best story.

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Raw Rating for 5/28

3.2

When I first read this I was like what the hell happened? Then I remembered, oh yeah, holiday...nothing to see here. Its not a disaster that we need to examine online for the next 3 weeks, ok?

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WWE RAW 5/28/07 Live Coverage

Hello all! I am back this week with live coverage. Did ya miss me?
This edition of RAW is dedicated to the Armed Forces.



We start the night with the Diva's Bikini Beach Blast Battle Royal. I will not be doing much commentary on this match since it's ladies in bikinis and probably little wrestling. They're keeping with the tri-branded shows with every Diva going into this match. Melina gets sprayed with water bottles and the battle royal is on. I think there are a few Divas missing from this, particularly Torrie Wilson, Victoria and Ashley. Kristal is the first eliminated followed by Brooke, Maria, Layla, Kelly Kelly, Mickie James (who takes a savage water gun shot), Jillian Hall, Candice Michelle, Jillian Hall and then Melina. Michelle McCool was the only Diva who did any wrestling and good god Michelle looks hot in a bikini. I need to start watching Smackdown more if only for the Divas. Also, this match has made me wanna take a cold shower since all the Diva's looked hot in bikinis.

Shane McMahon is shown walking down a hallway as we go to commercial.

Back from commercial as Shane comes out and announces another WWE Draft. I'm happy to hear this since things on RAW have gotten a little stale as I'm sure they have been on Smackdown. ECW has always been quite stale so I don't know if this will help them. He then announces a 2-on-3 match with Cena and Lashley taking on Shane McMahon, Umaga and Khali. Shane does some stupid rhyme with honey and money and he leaves as we go to another commercial.

We now have Hardys/Cade & Murdoch vs. World's Greatest Tag Team/Nitro & Dykstra. Nitro and Cade start out. JR and King were hyping up the latest draft during the entrances and that was a good time to do it. Matt and Shelton are now in but we get a quick tag to Jeff and they do a double team move for 2. Matt back in and gets a 2nd rope elbow to Shelton's back for 2. Haas now tagged in. Matt gets a few moves on him then Cade and Murdoch get their licks in. Shelton how tagged in who gets clubbing blows from Murdoch who then tags in Jeff. Murdoch hits an awesome top rope crossbody to the outside as we go to commercial. We're back with Jeff getting the hot tag but Haas and Shelton go after him. Kenny tagged in who gets a nearfall who then slingshots Jeff into Nitro and they hit a double team move with a pinfall broken up by Matt. Shelton now in who hits a nice spin kick for 2. The heels have been in control ever since they came back from commercial with Jeff taking the punishment. Tag to Kenny who gets a couple nearfalls then puts a resthold on. Jeff hits a desperation move and gets the hot tag to Matt who bulldogs Kenny for 2. Matt just hit a double DDT on Nitro and Kenny and it's all broken down. Finish is Hardys hitting the Twist of Fate/Swanton to get the win for their team. Shelton grabs a mic and says that he and Haas weren't pinned then challenge Hardys for the Tag Titles. They accept but it's gonna be a ladder match.

Grisham is shown standing outside Cena's locker room as we go to commercial.

Grisham is now interviewing Cena. He says he never goes back on his word and tells us again he ain't afraid of Khali. He does an excellent impersonation of Khali and says there's doubt more than fear.

Commercial.

Maria is backstage interviewing Santino Morella. She asks him about the draft and says he's gonna be happy anywhere. Maria hits on him and Morella asks her if she's ok. He walks off and Orton comes in and talks smack about RVD. He says he has respect for HBK but none for RVD. There was also a nice joke where Maria asked Santino if his accent was Italian and he said it was New Jersey.

RVD vs. Orton is up. They hype One Night Stand and the sponsor's ad was actually bigger than anything else, which is a little sad. They're starting out rather slow with some standing switches and such then RVD hits an armdrag. RVD with a unique pin attempt with his legs then a rollup for 2 which makes Orton go outside for a few seconds. RVD hits a big Monkey Flip but Orton replies with a knee to the gut. RVD now with a headlock thenn its a big kick to take Orton down to the mat but Orton rolls out before he can hit Rolling Thunder. RVD jumps to the top but Orton dropkicks him all the into the security railing as we go to commercial. Back with Orton putting a rest hold on RVD. RVD tried to fight back but Orton pulls his hair. Orton with a high knee drop for a nearfall. JR and King keep telling us that there's nothing else the doctors can do for HBK but at least he hasn't gotten worse. RVD finally hits Rolling Thunder but can't capitalize. High kick to Orton's head then a clothesline gets RVD 2. Split-legged moonsault gets RVD 2 and 99/100. Orton with a thumb to the eye but RVD hits a windmill kickm goes for the frog splash but he hesitates for a second which allows Orton to get up on the apron so RVD kicks him onto the security rail. Orton fires back with that devastating DDT and gets a nearfall. RVD now having trouble with his head which Orton goes for without hesitation. Orton hits a brutal knee to RVD which causes the ref to stop the match. Post match is Orton giving RVD the most savage RKO I've ever seen. It looked like the top of RVD's head hit the mat then flipped over onto his back. They replay the RKO and I still cringed at it.

Commercial.

Torrie and Victoria weren't in the Diva Battle Royal because they're in the next match up as Torrie teams with Ric Flair to take on Victoria and Carlito. Flair and Carlito start out and I was about to say that at some point in this match Flair will go at it with Victoria when he just put the Figure Four on her. Carlito hits a few moves on Flair then tags in Victoria as Flair tags in Torrie. Carlito takes Ric Flair out in the outside which allows Carlito to come and hit the Backstabber on Torrie for the win. Match was about the right amount of time.

Commercial.

Umaga and Khali backstage. They argue in their native languages then Shane comes in and says "Worst Promdate Ever". He tells them to take out Lashley and Cena and then he gets the pin.

Commercial.

Maria is out for the 3rd time tonight with the Kiss Cam. She's had more screentime tonight than any other Diva. Masters interrupts her and talks about the interview she had with Morella earlier than challenges him to a Masterlock Challenge. I hope this is the last time we see the Masterlock Challenge ever. Santino flies down to the ring and we have an impromptu match. Masters catches him in mid air, hits a shoulderblock then applies the Masterlock. Masters never even lost his gum.

Commercial.

Main Event time. Cena doesn't get an overwhelming round of cheers from this Toronto crowd. Umaga and Cena start out and Umaga takes control. I think I heard a "Cena Sucks" chant. Khali tagged in for a bit then tags in Shane. Umaga now back in and they triple team Cena. Samoan Drop gets Umaga 2. Shane back in and we get dueling Cena Sucks, Let's Go Cena chants. Cena fights out of the leg submission and gets the hot tag to Lashley as Umaga gets tagged. Lashley has Khali tied up in the ropes and Umaga Spikes Cena on the outside. Khali gets untied, double chokeslams Lashley then Shane does the top rope elbow drop for the win. Vince has now come out to the top of the ramp and he celebrates with them to end the show.

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Raw Memorial Day Quick Preview

By Art Shimko
arts767@verizon.net

For a complete preview go to WWE.com.

-- John Cena and Bobby Lashley vs The Great Khali, Umaga and Shane McMahon
-- Shane McMahon makes a "huge announcement"
-- A Memorial Day Bikini Beach Blast Battle Royal
-- Something involving Cade & Murdoch

-- All this and more on USA at 9PM EST tonight.

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6/11's 3 hour Raw Special

Will feature the 2007 draft lottery

I'm trying to decide if this is pointless because guys cross shows all the time, and the PPV's are tri-branded anyway or if this is a way to remind the world that Smackdown is the B show and replenish Raw with the Edge departure and Michaels injury.

Actually, I've settled on both of the above.

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