2008 Great American Bash Results

July 20th, 2008 in Long Island, New York was the home for the latest WWE Pay Per View, the Great American Bash! Matches were fought in a festive ring with Red, White & Blue ropes, about 2 weeks after the patriotic Fourth of July holiday. Tonight's card had 5 different titles up for grabs, one of which is the brand new WWE Divas Championship created for Smackdown. Here's a look at the match by match recaps along with winners from tonight's big event!

Fatal Fourway - WWE Tag Team Titles

A Fatal Fourway match kicked off the PPV card with Hornswoggle & Finlay, Jesse & Festus and Ryder & Hawkins facing the champs Miz and Morrison for the belts. In the final moments of the match, Finlay was able to escape from Ryder as he put a boot in his face in the corner. Finlay tagged in the much smaller Hornswoggle who began to work on Ryder. Jesse tagged himself in by hitting Hornswoggle then tried for a pin after a fishermen's suplex. Ryder kicked out at 2, prompting Jesse to tag in Festus. Festus went into a rage by hitting a Flying Biscuit on Ryder, then took Miz and Morrison out. Jesse managed to tag in and went to the top ropes for a move, but Ryder was able to pull him down and steal the pinfall victory. Ryder and Hawkins are the new Tag Team champs!

Winner: Ryder & Hawkins win by pinfall to become new WWE Tag Team champions.

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Shelton Benjamin vs. Matt Hardy
US Championship

Matt Hardy looked to defend his US title against the Gold Standard, Shelton Benjamin, who beat Hardy just a few weeks ago. The champ was taken past his limits tonight, as Benjamin matched him blow for blow. Towards the end, Hardy had momentum in his favor and went for a Twist of Fate to win it. Shelton countered, so Matt went to the corner turnbuckle. Shelton followed Matt up on the corner ropes but was soon knocked down by Hardy's elbows. Matt went for a Moonsault to win it, but missed completely. Shelton waited for Matt to get to his feet then quickly hit his finisher to slam Matt down for a pinfall victory. Shelton Benjamin is your new US champ!

Winner: Shelton Benjamin wins via pinfall over Matt Hardy to become the new United States Champion.

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Tommy Dreamer vs. Mark Henry
ECW Title match

With the ECW title on the line, Mark Henry brought his latest ringside manager, Tony Atlas, while Tommy Dreamer had sidekick, Colin Delaney, along to cheer him on. Dreamer began to mount some offense from the corner, countering Mark Henry, then hitting a swinging neckbreaker and DDT. Tony Atlas got onto the apron for distraction, but Dreamer quickly knocked him off. As Dreamer got up on the ropes, Colin Delaney got on the apron, appearing to cheer him on. Colin then pulled a backstabbing type move when he jumped off the apron and yanked Dreamer into the ropes. Mark Henry took the opportunity to hit an easy powerslam, while Colin Delaney grinned at what just went down.

Winner: Mark Henry wins via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer to retain the ECW title.

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Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho

No love lost between these two superstars as they once again battled it out in the squared circle. Jericho's new counterpart, Lance Cade, attempted to interfere, but was promptly knocked out of the ring by Michaels. HBK then sent Jericho over the ropes onto Cade, and Moonsaulted onto both men. During the match, both men put it all on the line, but Michaels became busted up by an elbow show from Jericho, bleeding from his eye injury sustained several weeks ago. Despite the blood, Michaels told the ref to let him continue fighting. Jericho delivered repeated kicks to HBK's face and Cade was able to get in a cheap shot as well on an extremely bloody Shawn Michaels. Eventually, the ref Marty Elias made the decision to stop the match and award it to Jericho since Michaels was too beaten up to continue.

Winner: Chris Jericho wins due to referee's decision that Shawn Michaels couldn't continue the match.

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Michelle McCool vs. Natalya
WWE Divas Championship match

The first ever WWE Diva Champion was crowned at Great American Bash in a match involving Natalya and Michelle McCool. Both divas have displayed impressive submission holds against Smackdown opponents and attempted to use them on each other tonight. In the match, Natalya was able to lock on her traditional Sharpshooter but Michelle managed to crawl to grab the ropes. Despite breaking the hold, Natalya pulled Michelle to the center of the ring for another Sharpshooter. This time Michelle countered, and put Natalya into her heel hook style submission. Natalya screamed out, eventually tapping to give Michelle the first WWE Diva Championship.

Winner: Michelle McCool wins by submission over Natalya to become the first WWE Divas Champion.

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Batista vs. CM Punk
World Heavyweight title

Punk became the new champion just several weeks ago by defeating Edge on Raw, but only because of Batista's beatdown on the former champ first. Batista then won a Fatal Fourway to become the #1 contender for Punk's title at the Bash. In the matchup, a furious fight occurred between the Animal and the champ. Both men went back and forth, with Batista eventually sending Punk into the corner. Batista charged once to ram Punk in the gut, but on the second attempt, Punk moved away and Batista hit the ringpost shoulder first. Batista went to the outside, where Punk jumped at him. Batista was able to recover and hit a massive Spinebuster on the champ. However, it was the Big Red Machine who once again showed his new rage as he got involved in the match. Kane came to the ring just as Batista was rolling Punk back in. Kane tackled Batista into the ringpost outside, then continued to beat him up. A double DQ follows, allowing Punk to retain the belt!

Following the match, Kane delivers a vicious chokeslam on Punk before heading backstage. Kane continued to carry around the mysterious burlap sack and ask "Is he dead?" As Punk rose up to hold his title up, Batista delivered a kick then a Batista Bomb to slam Punk down.

Winner: CM Punk retains the World Heavyweight title due to a Double Disqualification from Kane's interference.

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JBL vs. John Cena
Parking Lot Brawl

The hatred continued between Cena and JBL in the Long Island arena's parking lot, where anything could happen. Tonight's brutal contest involved the use of jumper cables, crowbars, and slams on cars, as well as JBL putting Cena into a car and lighting it on fire. Cena was able to continue fighting, and eventually hit a Five Knuckle Shuffle on JBL on top of another car. Cena prepared for the FU, but then tried to walk JBL from one car over towards another. JBL was able to escape and throw Cena onto the hood of the other car, taking the pinfall to win it.

Winner: JBL wins via pinfall over John Cena.

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Edge vs. Triple H
WWE title match

Thanks to Triple H on this past Friday's Smackdown, the newlyweds Vickie Guerrero and Edge were no longer "happily married". Since Triple H exposed Edge as a cheater, showing footage of Edge hitting on and kissing the wedding planner, the couple was in disarray. This gave the Game quite a psychological advantage at the Bash.

In the match, Alicia Fox, the wedding planner attempted to assist Edge in winning the title. Both Edge and Triple H were down on the mat for the count after an Edge superplex off the ropes. Alicia ran to the ring from backstage and put the WWE title into the ring for Edge to use. Vickie Guerrero soon came into play, as she grabbed Fox in the ring and sent her to the outside. Vickie grabbed the belt and then shoved the ref away in the ring. Alicia Fox got back inside the ring to attack Vickie. As the two women fought, Edge attempted to go for a Spear on Alicia. Alicia moved and Edge speared down his former fiancee/wife Vickie! With Edge distracted by what just happened, Triple H took advantage by putting Edge into the Pedigree to slam him to the mat. After a 3 count, the Game retains!

Winner: Triple H wins by pinfall over Edge to retain the WWE title!

Definitely an interesting night as we saw 3 titles change hands at the Bash! Congratulations to Shelton Benjamin, Michelle McCool and Ryder & Hawkins for winning their respective titles. Also congrats go out to all of the winners of the night. There's sure to be more mayhem to come after tonight's events though. Be sure to catch WWE Raw this Monday night at 9PM EST for more on the Bash and all of the fallout!

2008 Great American Bash Predictions

The Great American Bash arrives with 5 of the various WWE titles on the line as well as several recent feuds which have carried over. Since the WWE draft just a few weeks ago, the major WWE titles have shifted shows and in some cases to new title holders. For example, Mark Henry has the ECW title with its former owner, Kane moving to Raw. CM Punk also moved to Raw and quickly cashed in his Money in the Bank title shot to defeat Edge and become World Heavyweight title holder. As for Edge, he's left on Smackdown with a new superstar to take on, Triple H, the WWE title holder. In addition to the ECW, WWE and World Heavyweight titles, the WWE tag team titles as well as a new title, the Diva championship is up for grabs. Here's match by match analysis and predictions for the WWE Pay-Per-View.

JBL vs. John Cena
Parking Lot Brawl

This feud's been going on for quite some time now and it seems about ready for some closure. Last week's episode of Raw saw JBL try to drive a car into John Cena in the arena parking lot area. Luckily, Cena escaped unharmed and will be able to compete. He's won every match against JBL at PPV's, so expect this to be no different. Cryme Tyme may also play a part in this, but the likely conclusion will see Cena deliver the F U to JBL on top of a car hood or roof for a pinfall.

Prediction: John Cena FU's JBL on top of a car to win by pinfall.

Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho

This feud's also been going on for a few months now, ever since Michaels defeated Flair at Wrestlemania, then faked an injury to defeat Batista. Jericho has since made the turn to heel status, turned on the WWE fans and also lost the Intercontinental title, thanks to Shawn Michaels. Michaels has been out for blood, but Jericho also has the ringside assistance of Lance Cade. It seems as if this could be the match of the night, although Edge vs. Triple H could be a classic as well. Michaels should get a clean victory here, barring interference from Cade.

Prediction: Shawn Michaels wins after a Superkick to Y2J.

Tommy Dreamer vs. Mark Henry
ECW title match

Now that Henry has aligned himself with a WWE Hall of Famer, Tony Atlas, it seems as if he's poised to hold onto the ECW title for a good bit of time. It's easy to see the newest addition to the ECW roster, Matt Hardy, eventually becoming ECW champ. For now, Henry will show that he can take out the cream of the crop of the roster, and that starts with ECW original, Tommy Dreamer. Atlas may play a part in helping Henry "earn" the victory here, or it could just become a beatdown DQ.

Prediction: Mark Henry wins via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer.

Michelle McCool vs. Natalya
WWE Diva Championship

There will be at least one new title holder after the Pay Per View, but only because this match is being fought for a brand new title. Vickie Guerrero announced the creation of the Divas Championship weeks ago so that Smackdown would have a women's title, just as Raw does. Now the two top divas, Michelle McCool and Natalya will duke it out. Each diva has her own submission hold, so one of the two is sure to be tapping out here. Natalya has displayed Beth Phoenix type force and steamrolled through competition. She's yet to beat Michelle McCool though, and Michelle's been Smackdown's favorite diva for some time now. Expect the All-American McCool to emerge victorious and be wearing the new belt on Smackdown.

Prediction: Michelle McCool gets Natayla to tap out and wins the new Diva Championship.

WWE Tag Team Title Fatal Fourway

This match features four tag teams: Jesse & Festus vs. Ryder & Hawkins vs. Hornswoggle & Finlay vs. The Miz and Morrison. It's hard to say why Miz and Morrison have held the belts for as long as they have, maybe because WWE seems to lack effective heels right now. This should be the only other title to change hands on the card though, and it seems as if the gimmick of Hornswoggle & Finlay as tag champs is about to begin. Some fans may hate it, others will love it, but it's about time for a title change here.

Prediction: Finlay & Hornswoggle become the new WWE tag team champs.

Batista vs. CM Punk
World Heavyweight title

Over a week ago it would have been easier to say Batista would win the title off Punk. However, after seeing what went down on Raw, you'd have to expect the Big Red Machine, Kane, to play a part in this title match. Kane was doing battle with Punk and went crazy, about to destroy him, until Batista came down to fight Kane off. With that in mind, it makes sense that Kane goes for retribution. Unfortunate for Punk, he's not going to get that clean win over a big star such as Batista. Instead this should end as a win thanks to Kane's distraction of Batista, or a DQ due to Kane's interference.

Prediction: CM Punk retains the title most likely due to Kane's involvement in the match.

Edge vs. Triple H
WWE Title Match

The main event features two of the WWE's brightest superstars battling it out. Edge the recent newlywed who was soon exposed as a cheater by Triple H. With Edge now being denounced by his "wife"? Vickie Guerrero, he would have to be more than just a little rattled. Triple H has played the ultimate mind game here. With Edge and Vickie broken apart, it seems as if Edge can't win here, and he may even be making a move back to Raw, to pursue CM Punk and the title he has. Triple H will retain for now, until Edge realigns himself with the Smackdown GM or a new sidekick/accomplice. We may even see Vickie involve herself in the outcome, making sure Triple H wins. Then again, I don't rule out the idea that Vickie and Edge set the whole "cheating" scenario up to fool Triple H.

Prediction: Triple H wins cleanly due to Edge's recent distractions with Vickie.

It should be another interesting PPV now that rosters are set and titles have been changed around. Expect that at least two titles change over on this PPV, with the new Divas Championship and probably new tag team champs. Otherwise, barring some surprises, the major titles will stay in place.

Check back here at WWE Characters the Blog after 11PM EST Sunday for all the PPV results!

Sun UK on the Bash

The Sun UK website has a review of the Great American Bash and discusses how John Cena and Umaga have shown good wrestling skills in the ring (in terms of crowd involvement and making opponents look good). The article says for the most part the Pay Per View was good but overshadowed by the recent Benoit tragedy.

They go on to say how Umaga is playing well as an effective heel and gave a good match versus Jeff Hardy. It also says Cena is one of the few wrestlers who has actually made The Great Khali look good in the ring in recent matches. They say that Cena vs Lashley was a classic good guy vs good guy match between two current bigtime stars in WWE. Sun UK says we need more of these at PPV's, where the crowd doesn't quite know what to expect.

Read the full article/coverage of Great American Bash here.

Smackdown Recap 07.27.07

Smackdown Recap 07/27/07 from Fresno, CA:

Smackdown started off with highlights of the Great American Bash match between Khali, Kane and Batista for the title. The match came down to Kane vs Batista but Khali managed to pull Batista off the pin. Khali then destroyed Batista outside the ring and slammed Kane inside the ring for the pinfall to retain his title.

Michael Cole announced that Great Khali would be holding a championship celebration later on tonight.

Deuce vs. Batista

Michael Cole noted that Batista eliminated both Deuce and Domino from last week's battle royal for the World Championship title. Cherry blew a kiss to her boyfriend Deuce in the ring as the match started. Batista shoved Deuce down hard to the bottom ropes and flexed for Cherry, then blew her a kiss. Deuce eventually attacked Batista from behind, knocking him out of the ring. Domino then clotheslined Batista down outside. Batista tried to run at Deuce after whipping him to the corner, but Deuce moved causing Batista to hit the ring post shoulder first. Deuce tried to keep Batista down and take advantage of the injury to Batista's shoulder.

Deuce waited for Batista to sit up and ran off the ropes to kick him. Batista got up and managed to spear down Deuce. Batista showed his pure power against Deuce, tossing him to the corners, clotheslining and slamming him down. Batista got riled up with the crowd as Domino then got up on the apron. Batista tossed Deuce into Domino knocking Domino off the apron. A Batista Bomb on Deuce then gave Batista the pinfall victory.

Winner: Batista wins via pinfall over Deuce.

Replay shown of Hornwsaggle entering and winning the Cruiserweight title by pinning Jamie Noble at the Great American Bash.

Max interviewed Jamie Noble about his upcoming matchup. Jamie Noble discussed how nobody wants to be known as the guy who lost to a leprechaun. Noble said in his match tonight he will take home the Cruiserweight title.

Promo shown for Michelle McCool swimming in a pool in a bikini. The promo finished with Michelle proclaiming "I'm Michelle McCool and I'm loving life!"

Jamie Noble vs. Hornswaggle (Cruiserweight Title match)

When Hornswaggle was introduced nobody came down from the backstage ramp area as his music played on. Noble stared up the ramp and started asking the ref where his opponent was. Noble left the ring and started checking under the apron covers for the leprechaun. As Noble started yelling at Michael Cole "where is he", Hornswaggle appeared in the ring holding his title up. Hornsaggle ran and slid into a dropkick into Noble, knocking him down outside the ring.

Back in the ring, Hornsaggle did such things as step on Noble's foot, bite his leg, and take off outside and under the ring to make Noble chase him. Back in ring Hornswaggle managed to knock Noble down to a seated position and ran at him several times. Noble finally used a kick to Hornswaggle's head to knock him down. Noble then kicked him around and tossed him onto the floor outside the ring. Noble came back outside the ring to start chasing Hornswaggle again. Hornswaggle got around the ring then up to the apron. Noble tried to pull his leg but ended up pulling his shoe off. Hornswaggle rolled into the ring as the ref rang the bell for a countout victory. After realizing he won, Hornswaggle took off with his title up the ramp to escape an enraged Noble.

Winner: Hornswaggle wins via countout over Jamie Noble to retain the Cruiserweight title.

Michael Cole announced a tag team match set for later on, Ric Flair and Matt Hardy taking on MVP and Chris Masters.

Rey Mysterio returning soon promo shown, saying Mysterio will return soon to Smackdown. A replay was shown of Rey's last match before he left, the "I Quit Match" versus Rey on October 20, 2006. Chavo Guerrero hung Rey Mysterio from a metal scaffolding near the top of the ramp and then smashed a steel chair against Mysterio's knee/leg repeatedly.

Eugene vs. Chavo Guerrero

Eugene offered a handshake but Chavo slapped Eugene in the face. Chavo began to beat away on Eugene in the ring corner as the ref warned him. Eugene tried to gain some momentum off the ropes, but Chavo continued to dominate. Chavo started to work on Eugene's left leg, slamming it against the ring post several times, then kicking it. Chavo put Eugene into a submission hold to stretch the injured leg. Eugene finally crawled to the ropes to break the hold. Eugene kept favoring his left knee during the match as Chavo assaulted it. Chavo dropkicked Eugene in the knee then hammered it with both hands.

Eugene finally able to land an inverted atomic drop to stun Chavo. Eugene started to find strength despite Chavo punching him. Eugene gained the upperhand and did an airplane spin to stun Chavo, then jumed at Chavo to knock him down. Chavo regained control and was able to knock Eugene down in the center of the ring. Chavo finished off Eugene with a frogsplash from the top of the corner rope.

Winner: Chavo Guerrero wins via pinfall over Eugene.

Matt Hardy shown walking backstage on the way out for his upcoming match. Ric Flair came out and asked if Hardy was ready. Flair started to "WOOO!" and had Matt join in as they both walked together for their match.

Promo for Jesse and Festus shown. Jesse said the Great American Bash made them realize how much they love the USA. Jesse said Festus is a true American. Festus shown holding a small American Flag as Jesse said "now that is the face of a true American".

Matt Hardy & Ric Flair vs. MVP & Chris Masters

A replay was shown of MVP interfering after Matt Hardy beat Chris Masters last week. MVP distracted Hardy outside the ring as Masters threw the Masterlock on Hardy from behind.

Matt Hardy went to face MVP, but MVP tagged in Chris Masters. Hardy managed to put a headlock on Masters, but Masters knocked Matt down when they went to the ropes. Masters knocked Hardy down several times, then tagged MVP in. MVP tried for a quick pinfall then kicked Matt several times in the corner. Masters took advantage when the ref turned his back, to attack Hardy. Hardy finally escaped to tag in Flair. Flair began to knock down MVP off the ropes then strutted around the ring. As MVP got back up, Matt Hardy had entered the ring and started towards MVP for a Twist of Fate. MVP rolled out of the ring with Masters to regroup as Smackdown hit break.

Back from break, Ric Flair had MVP down in the ring and was putting a submission hold on him to wear the leg down. MVP screamed as he finally was able to reach the bottom rope. Hardy and Flair isolated MVP, tagging in and out to continue attacking him. MVP used a thumb to Flair's eye to finally gain the upperhand and tag in Masters. Flair used chest chops on Masters when he came at him, but Masters took the upperhand. Masters and MVP then started to beat up Flair, with MVP running at Flair and kicking him in the corner.MVP kept Flair down on the mat, working on Flair's left arm. With Masters back in, Flair tried to fight back in the corner, but Masters overpowered him, eventually slamming Flair down.

Flair finally escaped from Masters after kicking him off the ropes. Flair stumbled over and tagged in Hardy who started to attack Masters with clotheslines in the corner. Hardy followed with a bulldog from the corner and then knocked MVP off the apron. Hardy was able to land the Twist of Fate and pinned Masters. MVP managed to get back in the ring and hit Hardy to break up the pin. Masters tried to regain control and picked up Hardy. Hardy slid off Masters and slammed him to the mat face first for the pinfall victory. MVP looked into the ring disgusted at Masters. MVP began to back up the ramp as Hardy and Flair celebrated.

MVP got on a mic and asked what they were celebrating for. MVP said they only beat his partner in the match but not him. MVP said he's beat Ric Flair before and Matt Hardy can't beat him at nothing. Hardy grabbed a mic from ringside and told MVP he would challenge him again for his title again then. MVP said he already lost the title opportunity so its off limits. MVP said there's nothing Hardy can beat him at, and listed off a bunch of sports including chess. Hardy told MVP since he is so confident, Hardy will name the game and continue to beat MVP at each until MVP is forced to defend the title.

Winners: Matt Hardy and Ric Flair win via pinfall over Chris Masters and MVP.

Chuck Palumbo shown riding one of his motorcycles out on the open road. Palumbo then said "I'm Chuck Palumbo, prepare for the ride of your life".

Joey Blaylock vs. Mark Henry

Blaylock ran at Henry after the bell, but Henry knocked him down. Henry started to throw massive punches onto Blaylock keeping him down. Henry used a boot to Blaylock's face off the ropes. Henry then picked up Blaylock on his shoulder and slammed him down hard to the mat. Henry used a splash off the ropes then went for the pin. Henry pulled up before the ref could count to 3. Henry then picked up Blaylock in a bear hug submission hold. The ref finally called for the bell awarding Henry the match.

After the match, Henry got on the mic and told the crowd there is no man or beast backstage who can beat him. Henry said the ring is his jungle as he dropped the mic. Henry then went over and grabbed Joey Blaylock then pressed him up overhead. Henry tossed Blaylock over the top rope and out of the ring near the announcers table.

Winner: Mark Henry wins via submission over Joey Blaylock.

Highlights shown from this past week's Raw where Coach named Randy Orton as #1 contender for John Cena's WWE title at Summerslam. Also shown was Jeff Hardy defeating Mr. Kennedy via countout, and Cena defeating Cade, Murdoch and Umaga by himself. Orton snuck in the ring to RKO Cena right before Coach named Orton as the #1 contender.

Summerslam promo shown, featuring WWE Divas and various superstar highlights.

Teddy Long and Kristal shown backstage checking out wedding dresses in a magazine. Just then Vickie Guerrero rushed in saying "Teddy he's here". Ron Simmons entered the backstage office of Teddy Long. Teddy said he called him in to ask him to be best man for his wedding. Simmons appeared choked up as Teddy asked him what he thought. Simmons eventually exclaimed "DAMN!" and then he and Teddy hugged as Kristal and Vickie clapped.

WWE magazine ad shown for the August issue which features Rey Mysterio and his comeback to WWE.

Footage shown of Edge in the hospital for his surgery, saying how he blames Kane for the injury. Dr. Andrews, operating surgeon, shown as well. Edge said he's bitter over how fans reacted and that when he returns Kane will be sorry this ever happened.

Dave Taylor vs. Kane

Taylor slapped Kane in the face to start off the match, then tried to uppercut Kane several times. Kane finally threw Taylor to the ropes then used a boot to his face to knock him down. Kane started to beat up Taylor with punches in the corner of the ring. Taylor gained some control when he got whipped to the rope then kicked Kane. Taylor managed to hammer away at Kane and keep him down on the mat with an arm hold. Kane finally got Taylor back into the ring corner and rammed him, then threw him to the other corner. Kane clotheslined Taylor twice then sidewalk slammed him down. Kane climbed the ropes and jumped off, clotheslining Taylor down. Kane then signaled for a chokeslam. Kane grabbed Taylor with one hand on the neck and slammed him down for the pin.

Winner: Kane wins via pinfall over Dave Taylor.

Jimmy Wang Yang shown backstage listening to a walkman and dancing. Just then Torrie Wilson came up to him in a cowgirl outfit. Torrie asked Yang if the outfit would be ok and Yang had a huge smile on his face. Torrie asked Yang if the shorts were short enough and turned around. Yang let out a "YEE HAW!" and then the two walked off for a match.

Victoria and Kenny Dykstra vs. Torrie Wilson and Jimmy Wang Yang

Torrie went at Victoria as soon as she got in the ring but the ref and other wrestlers pulled them apart. Dykstra started off with Yang knocking him down and hammering away at him. Yang tried to slide under Dykstra but Dykstra continued to attack.

Torrie eventually tagged in as did Victoria. Torrie began to clothesline down Victoria and tried for a pin. Victoria then spun Torrie around off her shoulders and slammed her down. Torrie tried to crawl over to Yang, but Victoria grabbed her and started to slam her down more. Victoria shoved Torrie to the ropes at one point and Torrie was able to get a neckbreaker as she came back. Both women layed on the mat as the crowd chanted for Torrie. Dykstra ran around to the apron where Yang was and grabbed his foot pulling him off the apron. Victoria continued to beat on Torrie in the ring, then tagged in Dykstra. Dystra started to walk towards Torrie with the ref saying he'd have to let Yang into the match. Dykstra grabbed Torrie's leg, but she kicked him in the face. Meanwhile Yang got onto the corner ropes and jumped off onto Dykstra. Victoria came in to break the pin up by Yang on Dykstra. Torrie ran over at Victoria taking her down. The two divas rolled out of the ring. Dykstra whipped Yang to the corner and ran at him. Yang elbowed Dykstra and then got back up on the ropes. Yang did a moonsault off the ropes onto Dykstra to score a pinfall victory. Torrie and Yang danced around together in the ring after the win.

Winners: Jimmy Wang Yang and Torrie Wilson win via pinfall over Kenny Dykstra and Victoria.

Great Khali's Championship Celebration

Costumed dancers came down the ramp tossing flowers out on the ramp and dancing around. They continued to dance once they got into the ring, which had a special red cover over the mat. Great Khali was then introduced. Khali came down the ramp with his manager Singh. Khali held the title up at the top of the ramp as fireworks erupted behind him. Khali got into the ring and hoisted his title up for the crowd to see. Singh announced tonight is Khali's official title celebration. Khali grabbed the mic and began to speak in Indian with the crowd chanting "What?" after each phrase. Singh took the mic back and said Khali said he is the first ever World Heavyweight Champion to come from India. Singh then talked about Khali winning the battle royal to get the title and then Khali beating both Kane and Batista. Singh then said Khali is amongst some of the greatest Indians in history. Singh said many compare Khali's title reign similar to that of Gandhi. Singh said Khali is the greatest World Champion of all time. Sing asked the audience to rise up and celebrate Panjabi style with them. Everyone in the ring began to dance around including Khali. Khali had a smile on his face as the music played and they all danced. Just then, Batista's music came on and Batista walked down the ramp to the ring.

Batista got in the ring and faced Khali. Singh chastised Batista for ruining Khali's celebration tonight. Batista grabbed the mic from Singh. Batista said he came to challenge Khali for a one on one match for the World Heavyweight Title. Khali yelled some things into the mic followed by what sounded like "NO". Batista slapped Khali in the face. The two men started to battle, and Singh went to put Batista in a chokeslam. Batista eventually ran against the ropes and then speared Khali down. Khali escaped under the ropes, then backed up the ramp with Singh, looking back at Batista in the ring.

Smackdown Preview 07.27.07

WWE.com offers the following preview of Friday Night's Smackdown:

As SmackDown’s largest, and perhaps most intimidating World Heavyweight Champion to date, The Great Khali continued on his path of domination at The Great American Bash Sunday night. This Friday, however, Khali has planned the biggest Championship Celebration in SmackDown history. What does Khali have in store for our fans?

After stealing a victory from Matt Hardy at The Great American Bash, the United States Champion MVP will come face-to-face with Hardy this Friday in tag team action. MVP will team with Chris Masters to take on the team of Matt Hardy & the 16-time World Champion Ric Flair. Can Hardy & Flair find a way to tame the two young lions?

Shocking our fans and the entire SmackDown roster, a new champion walked tall at The Bash’s Cruiserweight Open… and by far, it wasn’t anyone whom we expected. Suddenly appearing from under the ring, Hornswoggle pinned Jamie Noble to capture the Cruiserweight Championship! SmackDown’s leprechaun is living large this week, but will wearing the gold around his little waist prove too much for him to handle?

Tune in to Smackdown at 8PM EST Friday on the CW network.

WWE Superstar Hornswoggle

The meaning of "Hornswoggle" is to swindle, cheat, hoodwink or hoax.

Hornswoggle's real name is Dylan Mark Postl, born May 29, 1986 in Wisconsin. He stands just 4 foot 10 and weighs in at 127 lbs. In 2005, he made several appearances with NWA Wisconsin where he won its X Division Championship. He also appeared several times in 2005 for AWA Wisconsin's wrestling league. He eventually went on to sign a WWE contract in 2006. His favorite food appears the popular breakfast cereal of Lucky Charms, and he's no stranger to Looney Tunes type antics around the ring and backstage.

After signing with WWE, he made his debut as Hornswoggle on May 26, 2006 during a Finlay match against Paul Burchill. Hornswoggle appeared from under the ring and attacked Burchill, then scurried back under the ring. He continued doing this for many weeks after, many times with Finlay trying to stop him from attacking opponents. Eventually he was named "Little Bastard" at first by commentator, Michael Cole. Finlay eventually corrected him, informing Cole his name was Hornswoggle.

WWE Superstar Hornswoggle became involved in Wrestlemania 23, when he climbed the ladder in the Money in the Bank Match. Mr. Kennedy climbed up the ladder and slammed the Leprechaun off, eventually capturing the Money in the Bank briefcase. This set up a brief feud between Kennedy and Finlay, until Kennedy apologized for hurting Hornswoggle.

On July 22, 2007 at The Great American Bash Hornswoggle won the WWE Cruiserweight Championship after he competed in the Cruiserweight Open; the other participants and the referee were unaware that he was even wrestling in the match. Hornswaggle entered by scurrying across the ring before the match even began. He is listed within the acceptable weight range to compete for the title. Winning this title made him the first person with dwarfism to win a Championship in WWE history.

Notes: Hornswoggle was forced to give up his Cruiserweight title sadly on a 2007 episode of Smackdown. Acting GM Vickie Guerrero informed him it was too dangerous for him to continue as champ. This came not long after it was announced he was the bastard child of Chairman Vince McMahon.

Hornswoggle has since been involved in the famous "Bastard Child of Vince McMahon" story. Hornswoggle has caused all sorts of mayhem and was involved in "Tough Love" matches. Vince McMahon even put him in a mini Royal rumble battle royal type match on Raw, featuring mini versions of wwe kane, batista and mankind. It was later revealed Hornswoggle was the son of WWE Superstar Finlay.

More WWE Superstar Bios:

wwe edge

wwe kane

wwe john cena

wwe jesse and festus

San Jose Mercury News on Bash

San Jose Mercury News had an article prior to Great American Bash discussing the Benoit tragedy, WWE policies and the upcoming Pay Per View. Marc Mero, Dr. Gary Wadler (World Anti-Doping Prohibited List and Methods committee member) and WWE attorney Jerry McDevitt are also part of the story.

From San Jose Mercury News:

"Just weeks after a gruesome double murder-suicide devastated the dimly lit world of professional wrestling, the embattled industry limps into San Jose Sunday for one of its biggest summer shows.

In the ring, in front of thousands of screaming fans, the stars will perform as though nothing has happened. But the deaths of wrestler Chris Benoit, his wife and 7-year-old son - and this week's findings that Benoit's testosterone levels were greatly elevated - have sharpened debate about the role of steroids in wrestling.

And with the recent indictment of a wrestling doctor for alleged illegal steroid distribution, talk of Congressional hearings this fall, calls for a wrestlers' union and the emergence of ex-stars blowing the whistle, the lucrative - and largely secretive - world of wrestling is getting unmasked.

World Wrestling Entertainment, the industry's largest player and the promoter of Sunday's "Great American Bash" at HP Pavilion, last year reported $400 million in revenues, according to filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Pro wrestling has enjoyed such phenomenal success in part by flying for years under the regulatory radar."

Read the full San Jose Mercury News article here

Thoughts on the Bash

Great American Bash has come and gone, and once again it seems the fans were given very few title changes. It almost appears as if some of the Pay Per Views should be televised on USA or a Direct TV wrestling network, because spending $40-50 on each one seems extreme for what fans are being given. The matches are still entertaining but it seems as if the Creative Team is either trying to massively build up the current title holders, or is fresh out of ideas. The surprises come few and far between, with the exception of maybe Santino Marella showing up to the ring in Italy to capture the IC title, but that was no pay per view. Perhaps the WWE writers are perplexed by the injury bug which continues to hit its champions and contenders. The Great American Bash was a continuation of just about all of the championship title reigns.

One title change occurred at this year's Great American Bash, the Cruiserweight title which went to under-the-ring dweller, Hornswaggle. I wasn't surprised at the results from the rest of the card, although Matt Hardy has been built up alot lately and has been on quite a roll with victories. A victory over MVP seems deserved, but maybe they are saving it for later, say Summerslam. I'm not sure what direction the Khali title reign will take right now. He's definitely no Andre the Giant in the ring, but he's got that dominating size in his favor. It's funny, because you'd think if the Edge injury hadn't happened, Batista would be defeating Khali in their singles match at the Bash and building up his resume. While Khali is clumsy in the ring, its tough to just defeat a guy that big (unless Cena comes over to Smackdown for some reason, he's beaten him 2 or 3 times now). I'm not sure how long they will allow Khali to hold the title, but he makes Big Show, Andre the Giant and El Gigante look like they could have won Oscars for their work.

Khali, John Morrison, Candice Michelle, Umaga, Orton were all expected wins as they are generally recent title winners. There were some weapons style matches thrown in with the Bullrope and Singapore Cane on a Pole match that provided some unique entertainment for the show. Dusty Rhodes' son has set up a mini-feud with Orton until Triple H gets back. I think they still want Orton as the "Legend Killer" so that when Triple H finally returns he can claim to be the one legend Orton just can't get rid of. Maybe an "Orton Invitational Stretcher Battle Royal" would be a good way to speed things up for Orton's resume while we're waiting. Orton vs. Sgt Slaughter, Tatanka, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Doink, Ron Simmons and any other "legends" hanging around backstage. Orton would need to throw a guy over the ropes, and the wrestler would then be taken out on a stretcher. Getting carried away here, but the "legend killer" gimmick does get old, because we have seen it over and over now and we definitely get it.

That said, the one very bright spot and creative idea of the show was Hornswaggle entering the Cruiserweight invitational and winning the title. It's surprising and funny, and almost lends credence to how maybe this title holds very little value (it's starting to look like the Hardcore title which changed hands once or twice about every 1-2 hours). My thoughts on this: will a superstar actually challenge Hornswaggle? Who wants to be the wrestler who goes after a small leprechaun to win a title? Possibly Hornswaggle will just keep the title under the ring with the rest of his gold spoils. It makes you wonder if they are getting rid of the title for a while or for good. The other possibility I see here is that someone does go after Hornswaggle and Finlay comes to his rescue, starting a new feud.

In closing, many fans continue to be disappointed that John Cena is still WWE champ. While I agree that maybe it's time for a title change, At Summerslam, Cena will have been the WWE champ for over a year. So why not just give him the year, and then give up the title reign? However, I'd most like to see Triple H holding that title on Raw of any competitor there is today. A triple threat match with Cena, Orton and HHH at Summerslam wouldn't be such a bad idea and would be well worth the Pay Per View purchase price.

Great American Bash Predictions

The major theme lately in WWE Pay Per Views has been that barely any titles change hands. I expect that to follow suit with the Great American Bash, with more titles likely to change hands at Summerslam than here. I can see just 1 title change at most, and it's not Cena's. Here's the rundown of my predictions..

Kane vs. Batista vs Great Khali (Triple Threat Match for World Heavyweight Title) - Nobody saw this turn of events or match coming, so it actually spices up the card for the Bash a bit. The way the card was originally set up, I was predicting Edge to retain versus Kane and Batista to defeat Khali. All that changed when Edge was forced to give up the title, Khali won it in a battle royal and then this triple threat match was made. All that said, if they had wanted Kane or Batista winning the title, they most likely would have had them do it on Smackdown rather than Khali winning it. I think for a time now they will continue to have a heel champion on Smackdown, since Edge is injurred. I'm going to say Khali retains here somehow either by a DQ or pin. I don't see Khali only holding the title for 5 days though.

Prediction: Khali wins this match via a DQ or cheap tactic of some sort.

Matt Hardy vs MVP (US title) - This is probably the toughest of the matches to predict because it seems both wrestlers are being built up lately for their careers in WWE. The fans would love to see Matt Hardy win, and WWE wants MVP to have his title-holder credibility. MVP is coming off an impressive win versus Flair at the last Pay Per View. However, the fans want Matt Hardy holding the title. Matt Hardy won in a non-title matchup vs MVP on Smackdown which sets up the possibility here. If he doesn't win it here, I expect he'll win it at Summerslam. This would be my only title changing hands for the card.

Prediction: Matt Hardy will win the US championship.

Jeff Hardy vs. Umaga (Intercontinental Title) - Will both Hardy's win titles on the same card. It would make for a nice story, but I can't see Jeff Hardy beating the Samoan Bulldozer here. His brother will get the glory on this Pay Per View. The only other possiblity I could dream up for this match is Rey Mysterio makes his return here to avenge what Umaga did to him. I've read rumors that Mysterio will come back and go after Chavo though, who originally injured him. Umaga should retain the title unless some fluke occurs.

Prediction: Umaga retains the title via pinfall or DQ

CM Punk vs. John Morrison (ECW Title) - A recent name change for Nitro (to John Morrison) and also a recent showing that he can fight under extreme rules. The fans have wanted Punk to win the title for a while now, but Morrison is becoming the established heel champ on ECW. CM Punk will win it eventually but in this one, Morrison wins via pinfall.

Prediction: Morrison wins via pinfall to retain the ECW title.

Candice Michelle vs Melina (WWE Women's Title) - I see Candice retaining her title, because I have a feeling Beth Phoenix will be her next opponent, challenging for and maybe winning the WWE title. Expect Phoenix to possibly play a part in the match here and set up the feud. Candice hasn't said too much since winning the title, but actions will speak louder than words.

Prediction: Candice retains the WWE Women's title.

Randy Orton vs. Dusty Rhodes (Bullrope match) - I'd call this the "easy match" to predict. You have the older "legend" facing a "legend killer". Orton obviously wins this, but I expect it will set up more of a feud for Cody Rhodes and Orton, or possible a return of Triple H.

Prediction: Orton wins via pinfall, and sends Rhodes out on a stretcher.

Bobby Lashley vs. John Cena (WWE Title) - The match with all the buzz. The recent commentary by various stars on Raw, makes the hype and setup big for this match, and makes you wonder if this is where Cena loses. Many expect Lashley to pull the win off here. Only exception is that Cena has held the title for nearly a year. That year mark will come by Summerslam, and thats when I expect Cena to finally lose the belt. Cena will find a way to win here.

Prediction: Cena wins via pinfall to retain the title.

WWE Pay Per Views have made it safe lately to predict barely any titles changing hands, but they just might shock us this time around. There's also been rumors that at the Bash we see the returns or appearances of Rey Mysterio, Triple H, and Undertaker..stay tuned to see their possible involvements in this event which could set up future feuds and matches.

Feel free to leave your comments about who will lose/win at the Bash. Comments with vulgarity/swearing will not be accepted.

Surprises for the Bash?

Chicago Sun-Times had an article several days ago discussing how Bobby Lashley finally gets his shot at the top WWE prize after winning the hair vs hair match at Wrestlemania and after his ECW title run.

The Sun-Times also reports the following possibles surprises for the Bash and WWE:

"Word is that Rey Mysterio, Triple H and The Undertaker all could make surprise appearances at the show.

AROUND THE RING: Expect to see King Booker in main-event matches again after signing a new deal. WWE management had been very worried that Booker was going to jump to rival TNA ... ''Stone Cold'' Steve Austin could be on his way back on a regular basis in order to help boost ratings in the fall ... WWE is close to finalizing a deal that will turn ''Raw'' into a three-hour program every week. Strange timing, considering chairman Vince McMahon just said a few weeks ago that he thinks 90 minutes is the ideal length for a wrestling show"

US Title Match Set, JR BBQ Opens

WWE.com has announced that Matt Hardy will be competing with MVP for the US Title at the Great American Bash. Congratulations to Matt Hardy for this title shot! Matt has held many other WWE titles before but never the US title.

Jim Ross officially opened his restaurant JR's BBQ in Oklahoma today, according to WWE.com JR and his staff have been quite busy:

“We’ve been having the equivalent of football two-a-days,” he said about the preparation. “We’ve been cooking and serving. It’s like doing scrimmages. And now it’s game day. At 11:00, we kicked off and it’s real and the season has begun.”

J.R.’s Family Bar-B-Q also provides catering. It is open seven days a week between 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. For more information, call (405) 360-4BBQ.

“It’s real exciting for me. I’ve eaten at barbeque places all over the world and I just knew what I thought tasted good.”

Customers can also visit the restaurant’s Web site to order J.R.’s famous sauces, jerky and other products.

“It’s really a great place. We think our food is going to be outstanding and our staff is friendly. Like we say here, a smile and a thank you goes a long way.”

The Time For Cena to Lose

There's been a hoard of fans who are waiting and hoping for the day John Cena will lose the title. Then there's the others, the Cena supporters who want to see him keep the title, forever. I'd put myself in the middle, not to be political, but because I think Cena has made for a decent champion. I also wouldn't mind seeing the title go to someone who has never held it. Lashley and Mr. Kennedy would be perfect examples. As indicated in previous entries of this blog, I do expect Cena will lose most likely in the next 2 months. I see it happening either at the Bash or Summerslam, most likely.

The first scenario would be Cena loses to Bobby Lashley at Great American Bash. I was ready to predict Cena losing to Lashley during the 5 man title match at Vengeance, but couldn't bring myself to it. Cena has just been on that kind of a roll. However, Lashley has been on a mission since losing the ECW title and being part of Raw. He has had impressive victories since joining Raw, so Cena could conceivably lose the title at Bash.

The second scenario involves the return of Triple H. I'm pretty excited to see when and how this happens. It will be an exciting and earth-shattering WWE moment wherever and whenever he surfaces. Will he just show up as a guest at a Pay Per View, or will he make a return to RAW/Smackdown and end up in a title match at Summerslam? I think a Triple H vs. Cena title match for Summerslam (if possible), is what the WWE fans want to see. The longstanding champion versus the legendary Game would make for a classic. If I were writing storylines and scripts for the WWE, I'd even work in an angle where Cena defeated HBK and Triple H is back to prove that he's the top dog on Raw. Cena also has plans to work on a new movie in the fall, so he will be taking time off. And that means most likely someone will be taking his title from him, soon. Will Triple H be the one? The coming weeks should tell us, but for now the dream of that match can keep us going.

Leave your comments on when you expect to see Cena lose the title, or if you think he will continue holding the title through Summerslam.

The Great American Bash

Matches announced so far for "The Great American Bash":

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH:
Bobby Lashley vs. John Cena

Lashley won a "Beat the Clock" tournament on RAW to qualify. In the tournament were Mr. Kennedy, Randy Orton and King Booker. Lashley won his singles match against Shelton Benjamin in the fastest time of all 4 wrestlers. Afterwards, Lashley speared Cena in the ring during the contract signing. Will this be Lashley's time to reclaim championship gold?

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT MATCH:
Kane vs. Edge

On Smackdown, GM Teddy Long told Edge since he didn't compete he would have a special guest on Cutting Edge. Edge was shocked when the guest who came to the ring was none other than the Big Red Machine. After Kane tossed Edge over the ropes to the floor, Edge screamed Kane would never step in the ring with him again. Teddy Long told Edge otherwise and now Kane will meet Edge in a title match at the Bash.

ECW TITLE MATCH:
CM Punk vs. Johnny Nitro

Johnny Nitro shocked the crowd when he won the vacant ECW title at Vengeance. CM Punk continues to be on the rise and has qualified as #1 contender for the match. These 2 are sure to have another great match and CM Punk will try once again to capture the elusive ECW title.

KHALI CHALLENGE:
Batista vs. The Great Khali

On Smackdown, Khali and his translator, Singh have been bullying the roster since their arrival. Singh told everyone on Smackdown's roster that nobody is brave enough to even try to stop Khali's reign. One man emerged from the locker room, Batista, and accepted the challenge. Can Batista stop this giant monster or will Khali destroy yet another Smackdown star?