Derrick Bateman on "The USA Guy" Character He Almost Debuted

Michael Hutter, who wrestled for WWE under the name "Derrick Bateman," recently spoke about a character he nearly debuted for WWE TV called "The USA Guy." It seems like a fitting story in honor of the 4th of July holiday in America.

Michael Hutter aka "Derrick Bateman"

Bateman, who previously appeared on WWE shows including NXT and SmackDown briefly, spoke to PWTorch in an exclusive interview about his release and the character plans. He told Pat McNeill of PW Torch:

"I was approved to do things like put the videos on the Internet. There were a couple times where it seemed like it was about to debut, kind of out-of-the-blue on Raw. But, that never happened."

Bateman added as to why the character never went forth:

"I then blew out of my knee in a match with Antonio Cesaro on a Saturday Morning Slam. From there, that pretty much ruined my life because we never saw 'The USA Guy' after that. You know, I got hurt and things happen when you get hurt. Who knows what would have happened if I didn't get hurt."

Bateman also added that he had help from John Cena in terms of coming up with the idea, and also with pushing the character forward. Bateman said the character nearly had a magical debut on WWE Raw, but unfortunately his injury got in the way.  Despite the tough circumstances and his WWE release, he has found humor in it all. Bateman, who is now wrestling for an independent organization said:

"Even coming back, there was still a way to work it in, but, alas, it didn't work out for me. Not a big deal; I'll just trademark the name and make a billion dollars off it in Japan."

Could Bateman's "USA Guy" have been one of the coolest patriotic characters since, "The Patriot" and "Mr. America"?



Happy 4th of July to all fans celebrating the patriotic holiday!

(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

WWE NXT Results 06/20/12

NXT has undergone a makeover of sorts, with the new show being taped at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida.  Jim Ross and William Regal did commentary for the latest show, with Dusty Rhodes introduced as General Manager.  Here are the latest results for NXT.

Bo Dallas beat Rick Victor.

The team of Connor O'Brian and Kenneth Cameron beat C.J. Parker and Mike Dalton.

Damien Sandow refused to wrestle Jason Jordan.

Tyson Kidd beat Michael McGillicutty

WWE NXT Results 05/30/12

Here's the latest full NXT Results for the 05/30/12 episode.

Tyler Reks and Curt Hawkins defeated The Uso Brothers by pinfall.  Reks scored the winning pinfall late in the match.

Maxine arrived out to provide commentary for the divas match.

Kaitlyn defeated Tamina Snuka by submission.

Justin Gabriel, Percy Watson and Derrick Bateman defeated Johnny Curtis, Mike McGillicutty, and JTG by pinfall.  Justin Gabriel had the winning pinfall.

WWE NXT Results 12/21/11

Here are the quick results for the 12/21/11 episode of WWE NXT Redemption taped in Richmond, Virginia.

The Uso Brothers defeated the team of Derrick Bateman and Johnny Curtis.

Trent Barreta defeated Curt Hawkins.  Prior to the match, Hawkins and Reks locked Yoshi Tatsu in a storage closet backstage.

Kaitlyn defeated Maxine.  Derrick Bateman was ringside and caused a distraction to Maxine, giving Kaitlyn the win.

Tyson Kidd defeated Percy Watson in an entertaining match.

Titus O'Neil defeated JTG.  Post-match, Darren Young attacked Titus to conclude the show.

WWE NXT Results 11/30/11

NXT Results from Charlotte, NC:

Matt Striker was on commentary as the show opened. Tyler Reks' theme music hit as he and Hawkins arrived out for the first match. Josh Matthews joined Striker on commentary for the show. Striker announced the main event is a huge Triple Threat match with the winner receiving a match on Smackdown.

Percy Watson vs. Tyler Reks

Hawkins joined Striker and Matthews on commentary, and traded remarks with Striker, making fun of Percy Watson. Late in the match, Percy hit his huge Splash move for a near fall. Hawkins left commentary to go cheer on Reks. He tried to distract Percy from ringside, which allowed Reks to throw Percy down to the mat. Reks got up on the corner for a big move, but got dropkicked mid-air by Percy. Watson took the big pinfall for the win, but before he could celebrate a victory was knocked out of the ring by Hawkins.

Winner: Percy Watson wins via pinfall over Tyler Reks.

---

Backstage, Johnny Curtis was trying to flirt with Kaitlyn when Maxine came walking up all irritated. Maxine talked about how Curtis was "settling for that" and Kaitlyn asked her what her problem was. Curtis told Kaitlyn to find him in his bus after his match. Kaitlyn gave a weird look and walked off. Maxine said it's frustrating to see him talking to her and then settling for something like that. Curtis told her there's enough of him to go around town and back again. Maxine said if he knew how to treat a woman in the first place he might have her. They moved close for a near kiss, with Curtis kissing his fingers and then planting them on her lips before walking off.

Bateman came walking up saying he was sorry about last week, but Maxine told him to shut up, grabbed him and planted a huge kiss on him. She let go and he said he wanted to introduce her to his mother, who was standing there. Maxine was surprised by gave her a hug. Bateman walked off saying he has to prepare for a big match. Maxine tried to tell his mom it was so nice to meet her, but Mrs. Bateman gave her a warning: she said she's seen her looking at Johnny Curtis and if she hurts her son, she'll take her down. As she left the scene, Striker said Derrick's mom is named Agnes J Bateman.

Yoshi Tatsu & Trent Barreta vs. Johnny Curtis & Tyson Kidd

Late in the match, Barreta hit a corkscrew, moonsault legdrop on Kidd, but both guys hit the mat. Finally, Trent managed a hot tag to Yoshi, while Kidd tagged in Curtis. Yoshi came in like a ball of fire, flying around the move and taking down Curtis multiple times. Yoshi revved up for a big move and got on the corner for a high risk move. He flew off with his kick, but Curtis avoided it and then hit the big fishermen's suplex for the victory.

Winners: Johnny Curtis & Tyson Kidd win via pinfall over Yoshi Tatsu & Trent Barreta.

---

NXT returned with a replay from the Raw SuperShow with Piper's Pit hosted by Rowdy Roddy Piper. Piper tried to get John Cena fired up after what's happened between him and The Rock, and how some fans are anti-Cena.

Alicia Fox vs. Maxine

Maxine took Alicia down and put on a headlock. Alicia powered to her feet, but Maxine threw her back down to the mat for a few near falls. Derrick Bateman and his mother came out on stage to watch the match, with Bateman's mother signaling she had her eyes on her. Maxine was distracted, allowing Alicia Fox to gain control and hit a big leg drop on Maxine for the win.

Bateman and his mom looked frustrated up on the stage. Alicia backed up the ramp all smiles after her big win. Maxine was screaming down by ringside and then started walking up the ramp screaming "why'd you come out here?"

Winner: Alicia Fox wins via pinfall over Maxine.

---

Titus O'Neil vs. Derrick Bateman vs. Darren Young
Triple Threat Match

Late in the match, Titus took down Darren Young, and then picked up Bateman. He tossed Bateman backwards overhead, but then Young attacked him. Titus gained the upperhand though and hit a huge scoop slam on him. Young went out on the apron and Titus went out there after him. Young gained control there and hit a neckbreaker on the apron. Titus rolled back into the ring, and then Bateman got up to run over and dropkick Young off the apron. Bateman stole the winning pinfall on Titus.

Post-match, Bateman got on the mic and called out his bride-to-be, Maxine. Bateman said they'd be going back to Smackdown where they belong. Maxine's music started up but she wasn't arriving out from backstage. Tamina came walking out with JTG instead. Tamina was trying to tell him something nicely, but JTG took the mic and told her not to sugarcoat it. JTG told Bateman that his baby left with Johnny Curtis. Bateman grabbed his face and looked enraged as NXT ended.

Winner: Derrick Bateman wins the Triple Threat match by pinfall over Titus O'Neil.

---

WWE NXT Results 11/02/11

WWE NXT Results from Greenville, SC:

NXT opened with a video package about the ongoing relationship between Derrick Bateman and Maxine. A slow romantic song played in the background as they showed highlights of them smooching and other scenes from NXT. Last week in the ring, Maxine agreed to marry Bateman at the end of the show.

Jack Korpela opened on commentary, welcoming fans to Greenville, SC. He said William Regal is there with him tonight. JTG's theme music played with JTG in the ring already. He called Greenville "Hatersville" and said it over again to get boos. JTG introduced the soon-to-be-married couple of Bateman and Maxine, making a remark about how this is everlasting love not 72 days of "fly-by-night love." Bateman came out carrying Maxine in his arms.

They got in the ring. Maxine told JTG to refer to them as "Bate-max" from now on. Bateman said if JTG keeps this up, he might be a "best man." JTG whispered into his ear and Bateman corrected it saying "best fly man." Maxine said Bateman's forgetting something, so JTG handed him the small box. Bateman got down on one knee and put a ring on Maxine's finger, then kissed her on the lips.

Titus O'Neil's music hit and he came out to interrupt along with AJ and Percy Watson. They made some remarks about Maxine looking like a fish or "Chicken of Sea" and called them the "Young and the Fish Lips." Bateman tried to defend his love, but Titus brought up that Bateman was supposed to find Maxine's father to ask for her hand in marriage. Titus said nobody can find her father though. Percy Watson pulled out a black bag with Titus pulling out a dead fish pretending it was Maxine's father. They pretened it said no and then in unison said "Guess you didn't take the bait man, get it Bateman?" A mini-fight broke out with Titus throwing Bateman out over the ropes. They chased JTG out and Maxine left too.

Matt Striker came out from backstage to interrupt their arguing. Striker announced the main event of JTG, Derrick Bateman & Maxine against Titus, Percy and AJ.

---

The Usos vs. Johnny Curtis & Tyson Kidd

The Usos did their warrior dance and chant up on stage before pyro exploded for their ring entrance. Highlights were shown of Hawkins and Kidd attacking The Uso's last week after a match with Yoshi Tatus intervening. Kidd came out complaining that Matt Striker suspended Hawkins and Reks from NXT for another week, but he found a replacement, winner of NXT season 4 Johnny Curtis.

Early in the match, one of the Usos got the upperhand on Kidd, then did a breakdance move to taunt him. Korpela and Regal talked about Cena and The Rock's upcoming team-up to face Miz and Truth. Regal said Uso's should be mentioned in the discussion of great tag teams with great teamwork.

Late in the match, Kidd knocked one of the Uso's off the apron then tried to jump off at him. Instead, the other Uso was out there and they caught Kidd, then launched him onto the crowd barrier. From there, they were able to doubleteam Curtis, hitting the Samoan Slam and the Superfly Splash.

Winners: The Usos win by pinfall over Tyson Kidd & Johnny Curtis.

---

NXT returned with Regal thanking Flo Rida for providing the 2011 Survivor Series theme song. From there, it was time for Raw Rebound showing various on-stage and backstage antics involving Muppets and WWE stars.

AJ was back in the locker room when Kaitlyn came in. They talked about the Maxine Bateman marriage a bit, then their matches for tonight. Kaitlyn said she can handle Tamina just like last week. AJ said she kind of got one over on Tamina. They tried to tell each other they were ready to go in the ring tonight with Tamina and Maxine. They did a "Chick Busters" handshake then left the scene.

Kaitlyn vs. Tamina

Korpela and Regal talked about how Kaitlyn pulled out a win at the last moment last week. Regal said earlier he talked to Tamina and she was squatting 300lbs to prepare for this match.

Kaitlyn connected on a big suplex to get control but as she ran at Tamina she ate a boot to the face, then was clotheslined down. Tamina dropped several knees and an elbow on Kaitlyn then pulled her up to toss her into the corner.

Later in the match, Tamina had a big headlock on Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn got to her feet but Tamina threw her down and then pounded on her for a near fall. Tamina put yet another hold on Kaitlyn, but she fought to her feet again and backed Tamina to a corner. Kaitlyn had a huge hip toss and then ducked Tamina on a cloteshline attempt. Kaitlyn with a big side slam for the finish.

Winner: Kaitlyn wins via pinfall over Tamina.

---

AJ, Percy Watson & Titus O'Neil vs. Maxine, JTG & Derrick Bateman

Korpela hyped up Survivor Series which is presented by WWE 12. The faces came out first, and then the heels. Bateman and JTG were trying to hold Maxine back from rushing down to the ring to attack AJ. The two NXT divas started off the match with maxine gaining the upperhand.

Percy Watson was in moments later to take down JTG. Titus tagged in to doubleteam him. Regal criticized Percy's jumping around rather than working on the competitor. Bateman soon tagged in to take punches from Percy.

The close saw the action break down after Bateman had a winning pinfall on Titus. Percy rushed in to break it up, so JTG got in and punched away on Percy. Percy ended up clotheslining JTG out to the floor. Maxine came in to check on Bateman, so AJ rushed over and tackled her down. The divas rolled to the outside, and Titus hit his finisher "Clash of the Titus" on Bateman for the big win.

Post-match, the face wrestlers celebrated together in the ring as Maxine slammed her hands down on the floor outside the ring.

Winners: Titus O'Neil, Percy Watson and AJ defeated Derrick Bateman, JTG & Maxine by pinfall.

WWE NXT Results 10/12/11

WWE NXT Results from Dallas, TX:

Jack Korpela opened the show on commentary, noting fans are just two weeks from Vengeance 2011. Korpela was joined by William Regal on commentary and they talked about how Triple H was removed from power as COO of the WWE.

NXT competitor Derrick Bateman and his gal pal Maxine arrived to the ring to start the show off. Bateman asked if everyone saw Raw recently. He thanked Mr. McMahon and John Laurinaitis for restoring order to Monday Night Raw. Bateman said only his opinion and Maxine's matter most. They embraced and Bateman handed his girl the mic.

Maxine started up her speech but was soon interrupted. Percy Watson and Titus O'Neil arrived out in suits to confront Bateman and Maxine. They rallied with the Texas fans behind them. Titus called them the nastiest couple in the history of WWE. Percy and Titus suggested that Bateman was booty whipped for letting his girl talk for him.

Matt Striker arrived out to introduce himself as host of NXT. Striker told Bateman he's got a match later on, against Percy Watson. Striker told Maxine it's good she's dressed in her gear, because she's got a match next, against AJ.

---

AJ vs. Maxine

NXT joined this match in progress with Maxine snapping AJ against the ropes with neckbreaker. She put AJ under the bottom rope and stretched her against it, then smashed her on the midsection. Maxine continued to use a headlock submission on AJ.

AJ started to fight back as Regal gave his weekly fun fact about Maxine. Maxine regained control after dropping AJ against the top rope. Maxine continued to stretch out AJ to wear her down more.

Korpela said Maxine has a background in criminology which she said allows her to figure out and manipulate others. The crowd chanted for AJ who managed to push Maxine away from her off the corner. The two divas continued to battle it out with AJ managing to hit the Shining Wizard to win it.

Winner: AJ wins via pinfall over Maxine.

---

They showed highlights of how Hawkins and Reks managed to defeat The Uso's last week. Hawkins won it with the flying elbow off the corner, after Reks distracted the legal Uso from the apron.

Matt Striker interviewed Hawkins and Reks backstage. Reks talked about how The Uso's ruined their show a week ago, so they sent them packing with their tails between their legs. Hawkins said they don't need a road paved for them by their ancestors to make it in the WWE.

---

Jack Korpela gave a shout out to The Crystal Method featuring Yelawolf song "Make Some Noise (Put 'Em Up)" which is the official theme song for the 2011 Vengeance PPV. The song is also featured on the "Real Steel" movie soundtrack.

They showed the Raw Rebound which focused on COO Triple H showing up for work as usual on Monday Night, saying he wouldn't back down or quit his role. Vince McMahon arrived out to tell HHH he's relieved from his position as COO. Vince introduced that a new interim GM was instated, and that is John Laurinaitis. Laurinaitis made some big moves on the show including firing Jim Ross and reinstating R-Truth and The Miz. At the end of Raw, Laurinaitis said he would ask the board to arrange a match for Vengeance with Triple H and CM Punk vs. The Miz and R-Truth.

The Usos vs. Curt Hawkins & Tyler Reks

Hawkins and Reks arrived out first. The Usos did their native dance/chant up on stage followed by the pyro explosion before heading to the ring. The Uso's immediately went to work, with Hawkins taking the brunt of their early offense including a doubleteam effort. Hawkins eventually rolled over to the corner and got a tag from Reks.

Reks came in to turn the tides a bit on the legal Uso member. Reks had several big moves but missed on a knee drop, so he tagged Hawkins back in. Hawkins got thrown shoulder first into the corner and then hit by a running dropkick.

Later still, The Usos connected on a doubleteam move to hit an elbow on Hawkins from off the corner. Hawkins ended up on the outside and one of the Usos did a running dive out onto him. Tyler Reks tried to intervene but also got jumped on, with Uso's standing tall as NXT went to break.

The legal Uso managed to fight back after Reks seemed to be dominating things. He dumped Reks outside then knocked Hawkins off the apron, then made a crawl over for the tag. A hip splash connected on Reks in the corner followed by a near fall. Reks countered a flying crossbody into a powerslam for a near fall. He told Hawkins to get on the apron. Hawkins tried to hold back the legal Uso, but as Reks went for the kick, the Uso ducked and Hawkins got kicked.

Reks tried to set up Burning Hammer, but the legal Uso made a blind tag and slipped off him. From there, they hit a double superkick to knock down Reks, then followed with a double Superfly Splash from the corner.

Winner: The Usos win by pinfall over Curt Hawkins & Tyler Reks.

---

Percy Watson vs. Derrick Bateman

Watson was accompanied to the ring by his pal Titus O'Neil wearing a white suit. Bateman arrived out with his girl Maxine. Bateman checked Maxine over after her earlier loss to AJ.

Percy got the early upperhand, using a backdrop for a near fall. Korpela talked about Percy's background from the NFL, saying he has the perfect skills to make it in WWE. Bateman managed to make a counter when Percy jumped backwards onto the corner. Bateman dropkicked him hard and took control from there.

Later in the match, Bateman had control and stretched Percy against his knee to wear him down. Percy fought back and used a hip toss to throw Bateman down. Titus yelled for Percy to get back into the match. Moments later, Bateman missed on a huge elbow drop after running against the ropes.

Percy hit his huge spinning splash on Bateman, who managed to kick out of the pinfall. He hit a face plant move and a spinning neckbreaker for a near fall. Regal talked about how Bateman used a move that Arn Anderson was famous for. Percy made a comeback to finish things including a flapjack slam to get the pinfall.

Winner: Percy Watson wins via pinfall over Derrick Bateman.

NXT ended with Percy and Titus in the ring celebrating as Maxine checked on Bateman on the outside.

---

WWE NXT Results 09/27/11

WWE NXT Results from St. Louis, MO:

The show started with an in-ring confrontation between JTG/Darren Young and The Usos. The Usos brought up their lineage of former Samoan relatives who were champions. Young tried to dis them saying nobody under the age of 50 would know those wrestlers. JTG called their family a complete joke. This prompted The Usos to run the heels off from the ring and then challenge them to a tag team match later tonight.

---

Yoshi Tatsu vs. Jinder Mahal

Yoshi came out in his new outfit and mask, along with his half and half face paint.

Late in the match, Yoshi made a comeback, landing a huge chop to Mahal from off the corner. He followed with an elbow drop and a near fall, then used kicks on Mahal to send him to the corner for another running kick. Mahal caught him moments later for a backslam pinfall. Yoshi reversed it into a pin of his own. Yoshi had a barrage of moves including a headbutt, but missed on his spinning kick from the top. Mahal made took advantage and was able to hit his finisher on Yoshi, a full nelson slam for the win.

Winner: Jinder Mahal wins via pinfall over Yoshi Tatsu.

Backstage, Hornswoggle was walking with a note that had big green AJ letters on front. Maxine was there snickering saying she saw AJ talking to Titus around the corner. Horney brushed her off and kept walking, to find AJ with Titus. He handed the note to Titus to read AJ, which said he wouldn't let Maxine's attempts to break them apart work. He said he can't be tethered to AJ on NXT, because he must set sail for Smackdown now, but maybe one day her love will beckon for him again. Horney shook Titus' hand, then patted AJ on the arm and walked off. AJ said to Titus "doesn't he know I'm on Smackdown?"

---

Percy Watson vs. Tyson Kidd

Kidd managed to gain an upperhand after Percy had been in control. Kidd knocked Percy against the bottom rope, then leapt over the top rope to hit a leg drop on him. Kidd hit several more moves, then settled into a headlock on Percy.

Percy staged his own comeback with several big takedowns. He hit a huge splash on Kidd in the corner, then hit a backdrop on him. Percy went for another move on Kidd in the corner, but this time Kidd moved away. Percy jumped onto the middle ropes, but Kidd swiped his leg. Kidd hit a spinning neckbreaker, then did his springboard elbow drop from the rope to get the pin.

Winner: Tyson Kidd wins via pinfall over Percy Watson.

Backstage, Matt Striker tried to interview Jinder Mahal about his relationship with The Great Khali. Mahal interrupted him with some yelling in Hindi. He said not to mention that name ever again. He said he's the only one that matters and tonight marks his return to greatness.

---

The Usos vs. Darren Young & JTG

The Usos did their chanting and war dance at the top of the ramp before rushing to the ring. JTG and Young got the early advantage, doubleteaming the legal Uso. Finally, Jey got a hot tag, with Jimmy Uso coming in to take it to JTG and Young.

JTG was legal and managed to toss the Uso onto the ramp. JTG kicked away on Jimmy, the legal Uso, until the ref backed him off. Young got on the apron and hit a backdrop slam on Jimmy onto the apron, leaving him laying on the floor as NXT hit commercial.

NXT returned with JTG and Young hitting a double suplex on Jimmy. JTG got a pinfall attempt on Jimmy, but Jey rushed in to break it up. Young tagged in and continued to control things, putting a submission on Jimmy to keep wearing him down more. Jimmy managed to toss Young overhead and tried to crawl for the tag, but Young tagged JTG who rushed over to knock Jey off the apron.

Finally, Jimmy managed to make the hot tag just as JTG made one. Jey came in on fire attacking Young. He hit a spinning Lie Detector like takedown, and then a Rikish-like hip splash in the corner. Jey had the pinfall, but JTG rushed in to stop it. Jimmy came back in and the Usos hit a double-superkick on JTG. Young tried for his finisher on Jey, but Jey ducked it and superkicked Young to the mat. Jimmy tagged in and hit the Superfly Splash off the corner for the win.

Post-match, Jimmy and Jey were backing up the ramp celebrating their win. All of a sudden, Curt Hawkins and Tyler Reks came rushing down the ramp and smashed The Usos down. Korpela and Regal questioned why there's been another attack on NXT. Regal said they showed aggression so point for them. NXT signed off.

Winners: The Usos win via pinfall over JTG & Darren Young.

---

WWE NXT Results 09/06/11

WWE NXT Results from Toledo, OH:

The show opened with NXT competitor Darren Young arriving out to inform everyone he's already won NXT. Commentator and wrestler, William Regal, arrives out to tell him he's good, but not that good. Regal says he'll be facing him in the main event tonight.

AJ & Titus O'Neil defeated Derrick Bateman and Maxine in a mixed tags match with Hornswoggle at ringside.

Backstage, Derrick Bateman and Maxine started making plans about how to get rid of Hornswoggle.

Tyson Kidd came to the ring to complain about someone messing with him week after week. He said he thinks it's Yoshi Tatsu. Yoshi arrives out and they have a match, which Yoshi wins.

William Regal defeated Darren Young in the main event by pinfall. At one point, JTG tried to interfere, but Matt Striker took him out for Regal.

That concludes the latest episode of WWE NXT on WWE.com!

---

WWE NXT Results 08/23/11

WWE NXT Results from Calgary, Alberta, Canada:

The show opened with another exchange between NXT host Matt Striker and contestant Darren Young. Young gave a beatdown to Striker, so commentator William Regal rushed in to make a save.

Backstage, Tyson Kidd checked on his dry cleaning hanging up in his locker room area. On the bag were all sorts of Japanese characters, making Kidd puzzled over what it was about.

Trent Barreta vs. Tyson Kidd

Late in this one, Kidd locked on a single-leg Boston Crab. Barreta managed to fight his way over to the bottom rope to break it off.

All of a sudden some strange mysterious music came over the loudspeakers. Tyson was distracted the music which may have been from Yoshi Tatsu. There was some sort of character message on screen. Barreta caught Kidd from behind then hit his DDT finisher for the pinfall win.

Winner: Trent Barretta wins via pinfall over Tyson Kidd.

---

Grisham and Regal talked about last week's show involving Derrick Bateman insulting Hornswoggle and Titus O'Neil. Horney rushed up the ramp, so Titus helped him chase Bateman backstage. Meanwhile in the ring, former NXT contestant Maxine showed up to attack AJ in the ring.

Bateman gave a shoulder massage to Maxine backstage, saying they will be the most powerful couple ever in WWE. He said they'll be more powerful than HHH and Stephanie, Or Dusty Rhodes and Saphire. Maxine shook her head, then said she needs to take care of Hornswoggle. Bateman said he has a surprise for Horney, so Maxine said she'll have a surprise for Bateman later and started kissing on him.

AJ vs. Maxine

Maxine rolled to the outside early with Bateman ringside to help her regroup. Hornswoggle stayed up on the apron to cheer on his girl AJ.

Maxine gained control and kept a headlock on AJ on the mat. AJ tried to use her feet to power up but Maxine chopped her in the back of the head. Maxine slammed her fists on the mat angry she couldn't put away AJ. Maxine started to yell at Hornswoggle who just waved his hands and acted weird.

Maxine put AJ against the ropes and pressed her legs on the back of her to choke her a bit. She screamed at AJ to give up, then slammed her into the corner for more punishment before tossing her across the ring. Maxine continued to dominate more, screaming at AJ as she put a chinlock on her.

AJ made a comeback with several takedowns and a flying crossbody from off the corner. Bateman went around the ring to stalk Hornswoggle while AJ had control. Bateman shoved Horney down by his head to the outside floor. AJ looked outside to check on him, so Maxine took advantage with the quick rollup pinfall.

Titus O'Neil rushed down to the ring to chase off Bateman and Maxine before they could celebrate much.

Winner: Maxine wins via pinfall over AJ.

---

They showed an ad for Friday Smackdown saying that Bret Hart will rule as the General Manager for the night in Canada. Also, Sheamus and Mark Henry will fight in their second match against one another.

NXT returned with Grisham sending it to last night's #1 contender match on Raw between CM Punk and John Cena. The winner would get to face Alberto Del Rio at Night of Champions next month. The match was back and forth with both men nearly winning by pinfall. Punk had the advantage at one point, but was interrupted before he could hit GTS because Kevin Nash came walking out from backstage with a mic. He came down towards the ring telling Punk "this isn't over yet!" That distraction allowed Cena to grab Punk and hit AA to win the match.

Randy Orton vs Mark Henry & NXT Show

A new #1 contender was decided on Friday's Smackdown thanks to a 20-Man Battle Royal booked by GM Teddy Long. It saw the likes of The Great Khali, Sheamus, Wade Barrett, Jinder Mahal and Mark Henry battling it out for the prize. The winner would be able to challenge Randy Orton for the World Heavyweight Championship, sometime in the future.

The finale of the match saw it come down to big man Mark Henry against little man Sin Cara (who is now played by a new person under the mask). Sin Cara did all sorts of neat tricks, but it was obvious he wasn't going to get a title shot. Henry ultimately tossed him out of the ring like several others, showing his dominance.

This all comes after Henry has dispatched of Big Show, Kane and recently defeated Sheamus by countout at Summerslam 2011. WWE has pushed Henry on this dominant path lately, which now has him colliding with The Viper. Fans may remember back to a previous time these two crossed paths, when Henry was brought over to Raw and closed out the show with an impressive victory over a heel Orton. However, Henry never really got much of a push after that.

It's possible Henry could go on to become the World Heavyweight Champion, and ultimately set the stage for him to lose to Sheamus, Big Show, or Kane. The interesting factor here is Daniel Bryan, who has vowed to cash in his Money in the Bank Contract at Wrestlemania 28. Will he be cashing in on a heel or a face? Will it be Randy Orton, or will it be someone else? It's going to need to be a strong main eventer, as Bryan wants to fight the reputable fight. Nonetheless, Henry vs Orton will be an interesting new feud for now.

One other thing to touch on briefly and that is the ridiculousness of the WWE NXT show. There seems to be no need for fan voting on this matter as all of those who appear on the show will be used in some capacity by WWE whether fans voted for them or not. Johnny Curtis is far from a star with his current personality and skills. He was also due a tag team title shot with R-Truth, but apparently WWE things fans forgot about that.

Take a look at the Raw, Smackdown and even NXT rosters or shows, and you'll see plenty of NXT wrestlers or divas who didn't win the competition but are still competing on these shows. Examples of NXT "losers" who are on the rosters are pretty much everyone on Season 1, NXT diva hopefuls AJ, Maxine & Kaitlyn, and Derrick Bateman, who was brought back to the show to be part of the final 3 for this season. Titus O'Neil has been in dominant command of the challenges and in-ring fights on NXT Redemption, which will lead to another season apparently. All of this seems to make a very good case for making a bigtime elimination - the WWE NXT program.

WWE NXT Results 08/16/11

WWE NXT Results from Bakersfield, CA:

Todd Grisham introduced the show in Bakersfield saying how the WWE landscape has changed dramatically since Randy Orton won the World Heavyweight Championship and Del Rio won the WWE Championship. Titus O'Neil, AJ and Hornswoggle arrived out to start the show.

Titus got on the mic in the ring to welcome fans to the show. Titus said he's been on a journey to win NXT, but Hornswoggle's also been on a journey as well to find true love. He told AJ that Hornswoggle had something to tell her. Horney mumbled and grunted on the mic, so Titus translated that Horney said he couldn't find any diva more special than her to spend time with.

Horney got down on one knee to give AJ a candy pop ring. Titus said it's a small token of Hornswoggle's loyalty to her. Titus asked the crowd to egg on AJ to accept his loyalty. AJ told Hornswoggle it doesn't matter how big he is or the size of the gifts he gives, it's the size of his heart. Derrick Bateman came out to diss them all for making this into some mushy soap opera. Titus dissed Bateman on his jeans and said he has a yeast infection, then threatened to kick his teeth in.

Bateman insulted AJ, saying he couldn't tell who's the leprechaun and who's the troll right now. It ended up with Horney storming up the ramp, and Titus coming with him to chase Bateman backstage. Meanwhile, former NXT diva, Maxine, got in the ring to attack AJ, kicking her down and tossing the candy ring on her.

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JTG vs. Tyson Kidd

JTG hit a side slam on Kidd to make a comeback early in the match. JTG with the near fall but Kidd kicked out. Moments later, JTG had another near fall, then started to pound away on Kidd.

Later, JTG tried to jump off the corner at Kidd who ran under him. Kidd landed on the mat and then bounced against the ropes. However, Kidd managed to trip him up and get him into a half Boston Crab. JTG tried to struggle to reach the rope to break it up, but couldn't. Eventually he tapped out.

As Kidd was celebrating his win, his music cut out, and a strange Japanese symbol showed up on the Titantron.

Winner: Tyson Kidd wins by submission against JTG.

Backstage, Matt Striker was ready for ring action. He talked about how he lost to Darren Young last week and won't make any excuses. Striker said Young is making excuses. He said tonight he's prepared for Darren Young, but Young isn't prepared for Matt Striker. Striker said if he wants respect, he's got to earn it tonight.

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When NXT returned, Grisham thanked Cee Lo Green for "Bright Lights Bigger City" now available on iTunes from the album "The Lady Killer." Regal told fans to check out WWE.com for exclusive Summerslam 2011 photos.

Matt Striker vs. Darren Young

They showed highlights from last week's match between these two, which Young ultimately won with the double knee to Striker's rib cage area, causing Striker to bleed from the mouth. Striker was on the attack early in this one. The ref tried to get him away, so Young took advantage with a jab.

Young started chest chopping Striker in the corner, so Matt put him in the corner and started to strike back. On the outside, Striker ran over and kicked Young's hand against the steel steps. This time, Young was bleeding from the mouth early. He came back with a quick clothesline to take down Striker.

Late in the match, Striker had a twisting DDT from the top rope. He had the pinfall on Young, who barely got a leg up on the bottom rope before 3. Young put Striker up on his shoulders for another double knee to the ribcage, but Striker slid off this time and hit a Backstabber. Young managed to kick out. Striker went for a unique pinfall, but Young displayed impressive strength by rolling through and standing up with Striker on his shoulders. He hit the double knee to the ribcage for the win.

Winner: Darren Young wins via pinfall over Matt Striker.

Derrick Bateman came down the ramp hand in hand with former NXT diva contestant, Maxine. They got in the ring with Bateman introducing her as his soulmate, love of his life and girlfriend. Maxine said on the mic that Hornswoggle wishes he could handle a real woman like her, but he can't, so instead he settles for less, like AJ. She said if he thinks they're causing problems for him now, just wait, because they're just getting started.

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Titus O'Neil vs. Derrick Bateman

Titus O'Neil arrived to the ring without Hornswoggle or AJ. O'Neil got Bateman in the corner early for a huge chop to the chest, then whipped him hard across to the other corner. He followed with a big scoop slam, elbow drop and near fall.

After getting hammered in the corner, Bateman made a comeback a bit later with a big neckbreaker and a near fall of his own. Bateman put on a full quarter nelson on Titus on the mat, with Regal commenting on how tough it is to put on someone Titus' size. Bateman remained in control with a knee to the gut.

Later in the match, Titus had the near fall but Bateman kicked out. Titus hit a huge slam, and Bateman rolled to the outside. Maxine went over to check on him. Titus went to the outside to go after Bateman. Bateman got back in the ring and Maxine grabbed Titus' foot as he tried to get in. Bateman distracted the ref, then was able to get a quick pin on Titus for the win.
Post-match, Bateman went to the outside and made out with Maxine to celebrate the win. Meanwhile, Titus complained to the ref about the interference.

Winner: Derrick Bateman wins via pinfall over Titus O'Neil.

To close out NXT, they showed a replay of Rey Mysterio vs Alberto Del Rio for the WWE Championship from last night's Raw episode on USA.

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WWE NXT Results 08/09/11

NXT Results from Sacramento, CA:

The show opened with Matt Striker in ring for the latest challenging involving some eggs or golf balls and spoons. Darren Young arrived out from backstage to interrupt. He got in the ring with Striker saying he's the host and just trying to do his job. Young said he's main evented at Summerslam and that Striker is a has been who never made it as a wrestler so he's trying to stay in the spotlight. Young eventually got upset by Striker's comments towards him, so he punched Striker down. Young backed up the ramp and challenged Striker to a match tonight saying he'll show him why he's winning NXT Season 5.

Tyson Kidd appeared on camera from backstage talking about the lineage he comes from including the Dungeon which includes Davey Boy Smith and Bret Hart. He said tonight he'll show Justin Gabriel how it's done in the ring.

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Justin Gabriel vs. Tyson Kidd

Late in the match, Tyson Kidd put a single-leg Boston Crab submission on Gabriel. Gabriel countered and turned it into his own pinfall move. Kidd kicked out, so Gabriel hit a modified STO. He climbed up the corner for the 450 Splash and after setting up, connected on his finisher for the win.

Winner: Justin Gabriel wins via pinfall over Tyson Kidd.

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Matt Striker vs. Darren Young

During this match, Striker got busted open after a belly-to-belly suplex from Young. Striker was bleeding heavily from the nose, but the match continued. Striker hit The Playmaker, MVP's former finisher, with Young kicking out of a pinfall attempt. The ref eventually checked to make sure Striker was ok to continue with all the bleeding. Young eventually managed to hit a gutbuster across his knees with Striker, leading to the winning pinfall.

Winner: Darren Young wins via pinfall over Matt Striker.

Daniel Bryan found Derrick Bateman backstage playing video games. He shut the game off and said it's time they talk. Bryan said he hasn't been with him for support lately because Bateman's been making a fool out of himself. Bryan said until Bateman can figure himself out, he's on his own. Daniel Bryan walked off leaving Bateman to think it over.

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Titus O'Neil vs. Derrick Bateman

Late in the match, Titus escaped a reverse chinlock by Bateman. Bateman cut off his comeback attempt with a chopblock, then went for a sunset flip pinfall. Instead, Titus sat on Bateman's shoulders and held him there for the 3 count, surprising everyone at the strange finish out of nowhere.

Post-match, Titus celebrated in the ring with AJ and Hornswoggle, similar to last week's celebration.

Winner: Titus O'Neil wins via pinfall over Derrick Bateman.

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WWE NXT Results 08/02/11

WWE NXT Results from University of KY:

The show opened with a video recapping how there's just three men left, but Titus O'Neil is dominating the rookie redemption challenges with more points than his other opponents combined. They showed how Derrick Bateman tried to cost Titus a match against Young a few weeks ago, but Titus still managed to win. However, Bateman managed to beat Titus last week in their match. Darren Young was at ringside to give him assistance by grabbing Titus' foot in the corner and congratulated him on the win.

Todd Grisham kicked it off on commentary mentioning Summerslam is less than two weeks away. He sent it to Matt Striker in the ring. Striker introduced Titus O'Neil to the fans. Grisham started talking about Titus' dominance in the competition. Regal said O'Neil has redeemed himself. Striker asked Titus about how he feels about the Bateman Young alliance against him. Titus said he thinks it's cute, because he's dominated the competition up until now. Titus said that his two opponents know their only chance to win is taking him out of it.

Titus tried to do his dog barking chant, but some rock music started up bringing Derrick Bateman and Darren Young out. Bateman said nothing can take away the fact that last week he beat him. Titus told Bateman there's no way he can beat him one on one without help. Darren Young reminded everyone he's competing in NXT all by himself without a pro mentor. Titus suggested they have a tag match right there tonight. Striker polled the audience and they were in favor of the idea. Young said the only way they'll fight Titus tonight is if they can choose his partner.

Titus agreed to it, so Bateman and Young conferred about it. They said they'll face Titus O'Neil and his partner...Matt Striker! Striker tried to protest it saying he hasn't been in the ring in 4 years. Titus said that's just fine, but Striker still wasn't agreeing.

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They had a Social Media Mania factoid when NXT returned saying that The Rock has more Twitter followers than John Cena. However, Cena's got more Facebook fans.

JTG arrived to the ring for the gentlemen's bet over "Who is More Gangsta?" between JTG and Kozlov. Vlad Kozlov arrived out to JTG's theme music wearing a white T-shirt, a grill for his teeth, sunglasses and a baseball cap. Kozlov did dance moves on the way down the ramp and then did JTG's taunt through the ropes, before posing on the corner.

Vladimir Kozlov vs. JTG

JTG started looking over Kozlov with Kozlov mimicking his every move. JTG got angry and started beating on Kozlov, but Vlad soon made a comeback as he caught JTG and slammed him backwards.

Post-break, JTG was in control as he used submission holds on Kozlov. He ripped apart Kozlov's undershirt before he started to choke him against the ropes. Regal talked about how JTG is stepping his game up to show everyone what he can do, and that he's probably feeling disrespected over Kozlov mocking him.

Kozlov started up another comeback doing his battering ram headbutts into JTG's chest. He hit a powerslam and then signaled for a finisher, hitting his one arm slam on JTG to win it. Kozlov had a bloody nose post-match. JTG's music started up so Kozlov started to dance in the ring to celebrate and posed on the corner.

Post-match, Kozlov left the ring and went over to take Todd Grisham's cell phone. He did some planking on JTG in the ring and then snapped a picture with Grisham's cell phone.

Winner: Vladimir Kozlov wins via pinfall over JTG.

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They came back with Regal talking about how WWE.com has WWE Divas Summerslam swimsuit pics up now featuring Stacey, Eve, Kelly Kelly and more of the divas.

Time for the Raw Rebound. It was a review of CM Punk's return to Raw last night and his speech about the championship. Triple H arrived out to talk to him about it. Punk pushed him a bit and called Triple H a bully who likes to throw his weight around and push people. Punk brought up Triple H's wife as a joke to taunt him too. Later in the night, John Cena arrived to the ring to discuss the WWE Championship situation with Triple H. HHH said he won't be stripped of the title. CM Punk came out to ask if he's being stripped of his title while the paper champ isn't. Triple H said no, they'll settle it at Summerslam with a match to determine the undisputed WWE Champion.

Regal said he's never been more excited to see a WWE Championship match. Grisham said everyone's talking about this match even ESPN. He asked Regal for a prediction, and Regal said CM Punk, hands down.

Tyson Kidd arrived out with a mic and said Yoshi Tatsu won their match last week, but let's see who got the leg up on their competition. They showed highlights of Kidd beating up Yoshi post-match and injuring his leg, before stealing the necklace back. Kidd told the audience they should all be on their feet expressing their gratitude, because he's gotten rid of Yoshi Tatsu, his toys and stupid music. Kidd brought up how he comes from a long line of successful superstars including Pillman, Davey Boy Smith and Bret Hart. He said they made it through hard work not worshipping toy action figures. He said in his WWE there's only room for Tyson Kidd.

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Matt Striker & Titus O'Neil vs. Darren Young & Derrick Bateman

Darren Young and Derrick Bateman arrived out first. Hornswoggle's music hit and out came Titus O'Neil' He was escorted by Horney with AJ holding his hand on the way to the ring. They took seats at the commentary area with Regal and Grisham. Regal told AJ his neice adores her and idolizes her.

During the match, Titus took control against Bateman then tagged in Striker to a lot of audience reaction. Striker did a move and grabbed a quick pinfall attempt. Moments later he hit a big dropkick on Bateman, then tagged in Titus for more work. Grisham told Hornswoggle he's grunting and moaning on commentary and that's not good television. Titus was able to toss Bateman out of the ring then did his barking. Horney did it too from the commentary area, so Grisham asked for a commercial break.

After break, Striker was in control of Young for a bit until Striker rushed at him in the corner and caught an elbow to the face. Young slammed Striker hard into the corner area and then hit another slam on him for a near fall. He tagged in Bateman to continue beating on Striker. Bateman took it to Striker then knocked Titus off the apron. Titus tried to get back in, but the ref held him off. Meanwhile Young and Bateman beat on him in the corner.

Bateman missed on a dropkick in the corner, so Striker managed to dive over to tag Titus O'Neil in. Titus kept knocking down Darren Young then punched Bateman off the apron. He had the near fall with Young kicking out. Young tried to use the ropes for leverage to pin Young. Matt Striker ran over on the apron to push his legs off. Young went over and tried to swing at Striker who dropped off the apron. Young turned around and was grabbed by Titus for his Clash of the Titus slam finisher.

Post-match, Horney and AJ got in the ring to celebrate with the winning team. AJ sat on Hornswoggle's shoulders, then Titus picked her up in one arm.

Winners: Matt Striker & Titus O'Neil win via pinfall over Darren Young & Derrick Bateman.

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WWE NXT Results 07/26/11

NXT Results from Philadelphia, PA:

They opened with a video package detailing the matches between NXT pros Yoshi Tatsu and Tyson Kidd. They each won a match against the other with Yoshi winning the "rubber match." He claimed the action figure's leg that Kidd had as a necklace charm, but Kidd knocked Yoshi down and took it back. Last week, Yoshi found the rest of his action figure destroyed with the head ripped off and yelled "TYSON!!!!"

Todd Grisham welcomed fans to Philadelphia and hyped up tonight's "Necklace on a Pole" match between Yoshi and Tyson. They brought up that Rey Mysterio won the WWE Championship last night then was forced to defend later in the show against John Cena. That match will be shown later on.

Titus O'Neil vs. Derrick Bateman

Last week, Derrick Bateman interfered in the match between Titus and Young, tripping Titus. However, Titus still was able to win the match. Bateman came to the ring wearing Rocky Balboa themed trunks with the red, white and blue.

Titus knocked Bateman out of the ring at one point. Darren Young came down the ramp and told Bateman to get in there and do his work. When NXT returned from break, Titus knocked Bateman down to the mat. Moments later, Bateman yanked Titus against the top rope to gain some control.

In the late part of the match, Darren Young grabbed Titus' leg in the corner. That allowed Bateman to dropkick O'Neil hard in the corner. He followed with a bulldog to the mat. Bateman with the pinfall win and Young came in to celebrate with in the ring.

Winner: Derrick Bateman wins via pinfall over Titus O'Neil.

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Hornswoggle was backstage with his yellow stuffed animal and found a heart with a note on it which told him to pucker up. Hornswoggle did so and closed his eyes. AJ from Smackdown appeared and gave him a peck on the lips. Maryse showed up and started laughing hysterically about it. She said they are perfect for each other, because they're both trolls. AJ smashed the flowers she had over Maryse's head. Maryse yelled at her and stormed off. AJ and Hornswoggle smiled at one another.

Vladimir Kozlov was shown planking on a vending machine and taking a pic on his cell phone. JTG walked up asking what the fudge he was doing. JTG told him their bet was to be a better gangster not a plankster, nincompoop. Vlad said he can be the flyest gangster. He put on JTG's Yankees hat. JTG told him he has 1 more week to deliver.

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Yoshi Tatsu vs. Tyson Kidd
Necklace on a Pole Match

Kidd went for the necklace several times early on. The second time, Yoshi got him in the Electric Chair. Kidd managed to use a headscissors to bring Yoshi over the top rope.

Later on, Kidd got the advantage as he kicked away on Yoshi in the corner. He choked him with his knee and then yelled to taunt the crowd some. Yoshi ducked an elbow but then he and Kidd did a double clothesline to take each other down.

Both Yoshi and Kidd climbed up on the corner near the pole and fought. They both shoved one another off though and fell to the outside floor. NXT went to commercial.

After break, Kidd and Yoshi were back in the ring and once again both men fell to the mat. Yoshi started to muster the strength to crawl towards the corner with the pole. Regal talked about how important it was for Yoshi to compete over a silly piece of plastic. Yoshi got to the top of the corner, but Kidd rushed over and shoved him off balance. Yoshi fell onto the turnbuckle.

Later, Kidd was back up to fight. The two stood on the corner, with Yoshi nearly grabbing the necklace, but Kidd grabbed him for a backslam off the corner. However, Yoshi had grabbed the necklace and was declared winner.

Post-match, Yoshi crawled over and grabbed the rest of his action figure from the steel steps and put it back together, then showed the fans. Once again, Kidd knocked Yoshi down. This time he pulled him crotch-first against the ringpost then slammed his leg against it. Kidd slammed Yoshi knee-first against the announce table for more damage and continued to punish his knee in the ring. Kidd smirked and admired his work as his theme music played. Regal and Grisham reviewed highlights.

Winner: Yoshi Tatsu wins the necklace on a pole match.

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WWE NXT closed out with the WWE Championship match between John Cena and Rey Mysterio on Raw. It was an intense back and forth match. At the end, Rey went for a 619, but Cena was playing possum against the ropes. He grabbed Rey and hit the Attitude Adjustment for the victory, to win the WWE title. However, his celebration was short-lived as CM Punk arrived to the ring with the WWE Championship belt he won from Cena. Raw ended with the two champs in the ring, but the fans supporting CM Punk.

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WWE NXT Results 07/12/11

WWE NXT Results from Mohegan Sun Casino, CT:

They showed highlights of the big shocker that Derrick Bateman from Season 4 would join the competition against finalists Titus O'Neil and Darren Young. On last week's show, Bateman and his pro Daniel Bryan defeated Titus and Young in the main event tag match.

Grisham reminded fans that Money in the Bank is in five days in Chicago. Derrick Bateman came out to start off the show. Bateman went over and shook hands with Regal before getting into the ring to pose. Bateman got on the mic to welcome fans to NXT. Bateman said the WWE begged and pleaded for him to come back and save the show. He said his opponents are seeking redemption, but he's going to redeem redemption. Bateman promised to redeem the entire WWE. The crowd started to boo, and then Darren Young came out to interrupt.

Young asked him who he thinks he is, reminding him of what he's done in the past, main eventing Summerslam, wrestling John Cena on Raw. He told Bateman he's done more in WWE already than Bateman will ever do. He then said Titus O'Neil isn't a D-Young, but at least he's been there all 19 weeks of the competitions. Bateman interrupted to ask why he's defending Titus O'Neil. Hornswoggle's music hit and Titus O'Neil came out to intervene in the convo.

The three rookies got into an argument in the ring, and almost got into a physical confrontation. That brought out Maryse to intervene. She spoke on the mic from the stage, saying the three rooks can try to prove themselves in a Triple Threat Elimination match next.

Titus O'Neil vs. Derrick Bateman vs. Darren Young
Triple Threat Elimination Match

Bateman got knocked out of the ring early leaving Titus O'Neil and Young to battle it out inside. Titus whipped Young hard to the corner, causing Young to fly over the corner and hit the outside floor. Bateman tried to help him and get an alliance. The two competitors got back in the ring to attack Titus together. They continued the strategy landing a doubleteam supled on Titus for a near fall.

The crowd started up a Daniel Bryan chant as Bateman got knocked out of the ring. Young kept kicking away on Titus to keep wearing him down. They hit multiple leg drops on Titus as he was layed off the edge of the apron. Titus finally started to make a comeback as he isolated Bateman in the corner, then took down Young for a near fall.

For the first elimination, Titus hit a huge sit out powerbomb slam on Young. Bateman rushed in and hit a big dropkick on Titus, then stole the pin to eliminate Young first. NXT went to commercial, then returned with Bateman in control of O'Neil in the ring. Titus had several huge chest chops in the corner, then countered an Irish Whip to send Bateman to the corner for a splash.

Titus started up a huge bit of momentum and hit a major sidewalk slam backbreaker then did his dog barking. He tossed Bateman backwards across the ring, then quickly crawled over for a near fall. Titus went for a big clothesline from the corner, but Bateman ducked it. He used his finisher which was similar to the Skullcrushing Finale to win it.

Winner: Derrick Bateman wins via pinfall over Titus O'Neil.

Grisham introduced the Money in the Bank ladder match highlights video that was shown during last night's episode of Raw. The rules were explained of climbing the ladder to retrieve the MITB briefcase which contains a WWE contract for a title shot at anytime, any place. Highlights included various MITB ladder matches involving Jericho, Ziggler, Punk, Shelton Benjamin, Kane, Orton, Edge and others. They took a look at the Smackdown MITB ladder match competitors.

Yoshi Tatsu put a Mohegan Sun gambling chip on his broken action figure and smiled. Striker came in to ask Yoshi why he's kept this action figure instead of getting a new one. Yoshi said he plans to get back the leg for the broken figure and get back his honor.

Grisham said tonight is the rubber match between Yoshi Tatsu and Tyson Kidd.

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NXT returned with a shot inside the Mohegan Sun casino looking at the gambling tables in one section. Grisham brought up Money in the Bank and the possible consequences of CM Punk winning Sunday's WWE Championship match at the PPV. They replayed highlights of CM Punk's rants and blunt statements on Raw, then showed the contract signing where Punk asked for perks for his contract. Punk tore apart his contract after getting punched down by Cena on Raw in Boston. Punk has vowed he will defeat Cena on Sunday and take the WWE Championship with him when he leaves.

Hornswoggle was backstage in the locker room staring at a framed picture of Maryse. Bottles of root beer were all over the table. Titus O'Neil came in to ask where Hornswoggle was for his match earlier. He saw Horney staring at the picture and confronted him about it saying he needs to get over her. Just then a man walked in with a package for a Mr. H. Swoggle. It was a small box with candy inside. Horney opened it and started to munch on them, then looked at the picture thinking it was from Maryse. Titus just shook his head trying to tell him it wasn't Maryse who sent them.

Vlad Kozlov was shown talking on his cell phone backstage when JTG came over and got in his face. JTG said he came to see if he was interested in another friendly wager. Kozlov reminded him that he lost their last bet. JTG said this time he bets him that he can't be more gangsta than him. JTG said Kozlov looks scared. Kozlov said he's got a deal, and then erupted with a "Booooooy!" before snapping his fingers in JTG's face. JTG was stunned and asked "what just happened?" as Kozlov walked off.

Yoshi Tatsu vs Tyson Kidd

Yoshi arrived out first followed by Kidd who was proudly wearing his necklace with the Yoshi action figure's leg on it as a pendant. Yoshi had an early advantage until he rolled out of the ring and back in, allowing Kidd to attack.

Yoshi started a comeback with chest chops and a chest take down followed by quick kicks. Yoshi went for a jumping move at Kidd in the corner, with Kidd avoiding it, then jumping back up to slam Yoshi backwards onto the mat. Both guys were down, with Yoshi rolling to the outside holding his head as NXT went to commercial.

NXT returned with Kidd locking Yoshi's neck in the headscissors submission on the mat. He broke it off then did an elbow drop. He tried to send Yoshi to the ropes, with Yoshi coming back for a near fall attempt.

Later still, Yoshi gained momentum again with chest chops and a slingshot of Kidd to the corner, followed by a German suplex bridge pinfall. Kidd kicked out and managed to take out one of Yoshi's legs, then started up his own burst of momentum. Yoshi knocked Kidd out of the ring then prepared for a running jump over the ropes. Kidd was quick up to the apron with a Pele kick to Yoshi's head. He went for a springboard splash elbow drop but Yoshi got both knees up.

The finish saw Kidd try for a moonsault off the corner. Yoshi moved out of the way and Kidd hit the mat. Yoshi followed with a backwards bridge pinfall rollup to win it. He went over and retrieved the necklace with his action figure leg on it from the corner of the ring. Yoshi raised it up in victory, but Kidd smashed him down, grabbed the necklace/chain and escaped the ring. Yoshi angrily looked out at Kidd as he backed up the ramp.

Winner: Yoshi Tatsu wins via pinfall over Tyson Kidd.

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WWE NXT Results 07/05/11

NXT Results from Tucson, AZ:

Todd Grisham said a wrench has been thrown into the finals of NXT as a third rookie has been added to the mix. Matt Striker and Maryse were in the ring to introduce the remaining NXT rookies: Darren Young, Titus O'Neil and Derrick Bateman.

Striker reminded them the winner gets a roster spot on Season 6, and also gets to pick their pro. Maryse updated the standings: Derrick Bateman has 0, Darren Young has 7 and Titus O'Neil has 22 points.

First up, a "Talk the Talk" Challenge, with the topic "Winning NXT." Maryse chose Darren Young to go first. Young spoke about the problem that there were 2 finalists as of last week but they added Derrick Bateman. He told Bateman and the crowd he'll win NXT without a pro, by himself. Titus O'Neil said he really doesn't care who's in the competition because he's dominated from start to finish. He tossed up a bunch of redemption points saying he can make it rain.

Derrick Bateman told Titus he's about as creative as he is talented. He made fun of Young for being back on NXT after being part of NEXUS and main eventing Summerslam last year. Bateman told the crowd he and Daniel Bryan are internet kings. Bateman suggested some Twitter hashtags: #batewin #tucsonrocks #chicksinamerica Maryse asked for crowd response on tonight's winner and it clearly went in favor of Titus O'Neil, who got 3 more redemption points to give him 25 total.

Regal called the challenge one of the most diabolical things he's seen in recent times.

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Yoshi Tatsu vs. Tyson Kidd

They showed footage of how Tyson Kidd tore apart Yoshi's action figure in the locker room last week. Yoshi attacked Kidd for it, causing two refs to pull him back. Regal said he'd be upset too if someone tore up his action figure. Tyson Kidd arrived out wearing the broken leg of Yoshi's action figure on a chain around his neck.

Early on, Yoshi got in a roundhouse kick and Kidd went to the outside. Outside the ring, Yoshi continued with chest chops on Kidd near the crowd barrier. He tossed Kidd back in the ring, but Kidd gained control as Yoshi got in. Kidd knocked Yoshi out of the ring right before commercial. The commercial was the promo for the anti-bullying movie "That's What I Am" starring Randy Orton and Ed Harris.

Kidd continued to stay in control of Yoshi after break. Yoshi made a comeback and after a kick to Kidd seated on the mat, Yoshi had the near fall. He slowly went to the corner for a high risk move. Kidd rushed over for a superplex attempt, but Yoshi dropped him face first to the mat. Yoshi followed with a spinning hip/leg to the head. Kidd managed to barely escape the pinfall.

In the closing moments, Yoshi went for his roundhouse kick, but Kidd dropkicked him in the shin, then hit a snap suplex-style move for the win.

Winner: Tyson Kidd wins via pinfall over Yoshi Tatsu.

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They showed a Derrick Bateman promo video. Bateman talked about since losing on NXT he finished 3rd in a soap box derby, raised a new cat named "Simon" and is now back for Season 5 to seek his Redemption. He said people might not think it's fair to come in this late in the season, but he asked if it was fair to be eliminated in front of his own parents in Cleveland, OH? Bateman said he doesn't have a dog bark, but he does have a wonderful personality and the greatest pro in the history of professionals.

Backstage, Hornswoggle had a boquet of dead flowers, Twizzlers and banana peels. Titus tried to tell Hornswoggle he needs to give it up. Hornswoggle didn't listen and rushed over to Maryse and gave the bouquet to her. She pretended to be in awe of them, then told Hornswoggle to close his eyes for a little something. He sprayed some breath spray in his mouth and closed his eyes. Maryse smashed the bouquet over Hornswoggle's head and yelled stuff at him in French before storming off. Titus came over and told Horney there's plenty of other women out there.

Daniel Bryan & Derrick Bateman vs. Darren Young & Titus O'Neil

Titus took control early on Derrick Bateman and did his dog bark to the crowd. Regal talked about how Titus keeps getting better and better. A tag was made to bring Darren Young in to work on Bateman some more. Titus was back in again and slammed Bateman down for a near fall, then tagged Young back in. Regal spoke about how the two NXT rooks should do their best to get rid of Bateman from the competition.

Bateman managed to knock Young into Titus and then knocked Titus off the apron. He finally tagged in Bryan who came in on fire. Bryan with a running flip off the corner and a big clothesline on Young from against the ropes. Bryan had a huge diving headbutt move for a near fall on Young.

Bateman hit a face forward slam move similar to Skullcrushing Finale to get the pinfall on Darren Young.

Winners: Derrick Bateman & Daniel Bryan win via pinfall over Darren Young & Titus O'Neil.

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Regal and Grisham talked about what's going on with Raw involving CM Punk, Vince McMahon and John Cena. They introduced a video of what happened on last night's Raw when Mr. McMahon showed up to address John Cena's comments. Vince said he suspended Punk because he deserved it, and that he did it for the WWE Universe, because it's best for them. He added how CM Punk was trying to get all sorts of incentives to renew his contract. Vince said Punk got what he deserved.

John Cena came out to prevent McMahon from leaving after saying that. He confronted Vince for being afraid to fight for freedom of speech. Cena stated his case that he wants the match against CM Punk at Money in the Bank. McMahon admitted he doesn't want to be embarrassed by Cena losing the title to Punk and having him take the WWE Championship away.

Cena tried to stir Vince up asking if McMahon would suspend him if he said something he didn't like. Vince told Cena he doesn't want to take the chance that Cena will lose to Punk. Cena told Vince to give the people what they really want and to not let his ego get in the way.

Vince told Cena it's his company not Cena's, and before Cena there were others. Cena handed the WWE Championship belt to Vince and said he doesn't want to be a part of what this company is. Cena walked up the ramp but Vince told him to hold it. He walked up there with the belt in hand and told Cena he would reinstate Punk for the MITB match. He added that if Cena loses the match at MITB he's fired.

NXT ended with the Raw highlights and no sign-off from Grisham or Regal on NXT.

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WWE NXT Results 06/28/11

NXT Results from Phoenix, AZ:

It's down to just 3 rookies searching for redemption: Conor O'Brian, Darren Young and Titus O'Neil. Tonight one of those 3 will be eliminated from their quest. Grisham asked Regal who he thinks is going home tonight. Regal said if it was up to him, Conor O'Brian. Tony Chimel introduced Darren Young as he arrived to the ring.

Young said his pro isn't there tonight, because he quit on him. Young said he's a better entertainer, athlete and competitor than he'll ever be. Young said in the last year he's done more than Chavo has in a 15-year-career. Conor O'Brian arrived out with a mic in his hand, saying by the time he's done destroying Young all of the accomplishments he keeps bragging about will be an afterthought.

Conor O'Brian vs. Darren Young

After break, Young was in control and used submission holds to keep him grounded. He kept trying to put O'Brian away but couldn't. Conor tried to muster up strength as the crowd rallied behind him. He fought to his feet shaking with energy. Young went for the Irish Whip but O'Brian reversed and hit a flapjack to slam Young to the mat. Conor followed with a slingshot into the corner and then a rollup on Young for the nearfall.

Moments later, Darren Young pulled a move out of Chavo's book, hitting the Three Amigos suplexes. YOung went to the corner for a high risk finish. O'Brian tried to go over and fight him, but Young knocked him down to the mat. Young followed with a Frogsplash off the corner Chavo-style to win it.

Winner: Darren Young wins via pinfall over Conor O'Brian.

Backstage, Yoshi was setting up a cactus plant near lit candles in front of his Japanese flags. The Yoshi action figure was sitting there too. Tyson Kidd came in saying "look what I found" as he picked up the action figure. He asked Yoshi if he thought that was going to help him in their match tonight. Kidd tore the legs off the action figure despite Yoshi begging him not to. Yoshi attacked Kidd, hammering on him on the floor until refs rushed in to restrain him.

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Yoshi Tatsu vs. Tyson Kidd

Regal talked early on about Kidd shaving off that bit of hair on his head because Bret Hart pulled on the hair to teach him a lesson during their training. Right before a commercial break, Yoshi was down near the steel steps. Kidd went outside, ran and dropkicked Yoshi into the steps.

NXT returned with Kidd keeping Yoshi down in a hold on the mat. Later, Kidd brought Yoshi down with another hold on his left arm. Yoshi refused to submit though. Yoshi finally got up and flipped forward to toss Kidd down. The two opponents ended up double clotheslining each other though. Kidd got up near the ropes, then Yoshi was up in the ring. Yoshi had the control as he chopped and kicked away, leaving Kidd's chest reddened. Yoshi did the rolling bulldog, then ran against the ropes and kicked Kidd in the face.

Yoshi ran and caught Kidd in the corner, then hit a spinning hip kick to take Kidd down for a close fall. Yoshi went to the corner for the high risk move. Kidd rushed over and jumped up to fight, but Yoshi shoved him off. Kidd got back up and kicked the corner area, causing Yoshi to get crotched on the top turnbuckle. Kidd climbed up there for the headscissor take down into a fall. Yoshi kicked out though.

Kidd tried to put Yoshi away again. After another exchange of offense, Yoshi scored the big kick to Kidd's head to knock him out for a winning pinfall.

Winner:

JTG was back checking himself out in a mirror with his jewelry asking "mirror mirror on the wall, who's the flyest of them all?" Suddenly as he was putting his grill in, a trash can behind him started moving forward. Horney popped out and tried to grab the jewelry JTG had put down on the table, but JTG slapped his hand telling him to stop. JTG went after Horney, but Titus rushed up telling JTG to stop. He told JTG that Horney's a leprechaun and likes gold. JTG said it's platinum, but Horney made some noises and said it's white gold. Titus will take on JTG tonight.

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Titus O'Neil vs. JTG

Maryse arrived to ringside to join Regal and Grisham on commentary for the match. Hornswoggle brought his pro, Titus O'Neil, to the ring. Grisham reviewed recent events including Hornswoggle last week asking for a date after giving Maryse a ring pop. Maryse laughed in his face and threw the ring down, saying he needs to get a woman his own size.

As Titus O'Neil and JTG fought in the ring, Hornswoggle brought a note over to Maryse. It was written in crayon asking Maryse "Do you love me - Yes, No, Maybe" with checkboxes. Maryse laughed about it saying Hornswoggle is a little person. Meanwhile in the ring, JTG had a headlock on Titus, who got to his feet. O'Neil flipped JTG over him to slam him to the mat. Maryse took a camera phone picture of the match or Hornswoggle.

At one point in the match, JTG came out to confront Hornswoggle. Horney tried to impress Maryse by posing up on the apron and flexing his muscles. Maryse laughed about his goofy antics. Meanwhile, Titus took control in the ring and hit his sit out powerbomb on JTG.

Titus put Hornswoggle up on his shoulders in the ring to celebrate the win. Maryse stood up and fanned herself with the note that Hornswoggle gave her, then tore it up, laughing. Hornswoggle was upset in the ring and left. Titus tried to comfort him on the way up the ramp, but Horney brushed him away. Meanwhile, Maryse laughed at ringside.

Winner: Titus O'Neil wins via pinfall over JTG.

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Raw Rebound flashed back to Raw Roulette in Las Vegas, Nevada on Monday night. They highlighted the main event, a tables match between R-Truth and John Cena. It saw Cena ready to win with an AA on Truth on a table in the ring. However, CM Punk arrived down ringside and tipped the table over. Cena slammed Truth down on the mat instead, then went out after Punk. Punk rushed back in the ring, so Cena went after him there. He tried for the AA, but Truth ended up tackling Cena through a table in the corner of the ring. Truth with the win, followed by CM Punk's big speech on the top of the stage talking about being best wrestler in the world. He told Cena he's just better at kissing Mr. McMahon's ass than Punk.

Todd Grisham said moments after Raw went off the air, CM Punk was suspended. Grisham said word has it that Mr. McMahon will be on Raw Monday to address what went down.

Maryse and Matt Striker were at ringside for the elimination. Time for the fourth elimination to leave just two rookies. Right now it's down to Titus O'Neil, Conor O'Brian and Darren Young. Striker said the decision of who is eliminated comes down to the votes of the fans and their pros. Striker said in the event of a tie, they use Redemption points to determine who's out. Right now. Conor O'Brian has 3 points, Darren Young has 7 points, and Titus O'Neil has 22 points.

Striker said it's time for the elimination, so they showed the three flashing rookies' pictures up on the Titantron. After several moments it stopped on Conor O'Brian's headshot. Conor took the mic to make his farewell speech, he said there's nowhere better to go out than Phoenix. He thanked the fans, and his pro Vlad who was also a good friend. He finished with a message to Hunter, saying all he wants is an opportunity to "play the game."

Striker said Titus O'Neil and Darren Young won't be going to the finals alone, they'll be joined by this man. Derrick Bateman arrived out with his pro, Daniel Bryan. Regal said Bateman was from Season 4. Grisham said it seems Bateman has a shot to win NXT Season 5 now. They showed the clip of Conor O'Brian learning he was the latest elimination as NXT went off the air.

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Chavo Guerrero Released by WWE

After a lengthy career with WWE, Superstar Chavo Guerrero has been officially released by World Wrestling Entertainment. The company posted the following standard announcement on WWE.com earlier today:

World Wrestling Entertainment has come to terms on the release of WWE SmackDown Superstar Chavo Guerrero as of today, June 25, 2011. We wish Guerrero the best in all future endeavors.

Chavo most recently was a pro mentor on the NXT Season 5 Redemption show online on Tuesday nights. He was also part of a recent mini-feud with new superstar Sin Cara, which included the two in a recent Pay-Per-View match. Chavo also is Vickie Guerrero's nephew and played a part in multiple storylines. Chavo had feuds with the likes of CM Punk, Edge and more recently Hornswoggle.

To his wrestling credits, Chavo has held the ECW Championship once, the WWE Tag Team Championship twice (with the late Eddie Guerrero) and the now defunct WWE Cruiserweight Championship twice. He was also a WCW Cruiserweight and World Tag Team Champ as well.

Chavo Guerrero will certainly be missed by WWE fans. He was great with his in-ring performances and antics so it'll be interesting to see what reason is given for his release. Also it'll be interesting to see the direction NXT takes with Darren Young not having a pro mentor. Young is one of the final 3 rookies remaining along with Conor O'Brian and Titus O'Neil.

WWE Characters the Blog also wishes Chavo the best of luck in his future as he was one of the best entertainers in pro wrestling for some time!

WWE NXT Results 06/21/11

The opening segment had Titus O'Neil and Hornswoggle in the ring. They called out Maryse, with Hornswoggle grunting and Titus translating. He said Horney wanted to ask her out on a date. Hornswoggle gave Maryse a candy pop ring. Maryse laughed about it and dropped it at his feet.

Zack Ryder came to the ring to make fun of Titus, his former rookie on previous NXT season. He mocked him for hanging out with Hornswoggle. Titus and Ryder got into a verbal altercation. Matt Striker came out and suggested these two battle in the main event tonight.

Yoshi Tatsu, Vladimir Kozlov & Conor O'Brian defeated Chavo Guerrero, JTG & Darren Young by pinfall. Late in the match, it was Yoshi who delivered a KO kick to JTG's head to get the win.

Grisham and Regal discussed the Raw Power to the People fan voting episode last night. A Raw Rebound video was shown focusing on CM Punk getting a title match against John Cena at the MITB 2011 PPV. Punk also promised to leave the next day when his contract is up with the WWE Championship in hand.

Zack Ryder defeated Titus O'Neil by pinfall. In the main event match, Hornswoggle and Ryder got into it, with Ryder taunting Hornswoggle and scaring him. Titus checked on his pro, but the distraction allowed Ryder to boot kick him in the head. Ryder hit the Rough Ryder to win it.

Post-match, Hornswoggle tried to comfort his rookie for the loss. Ryder kept taunting after leaving the ring. Titus was frustrated with Hornswoggle and William Regal suggested that Horney maybe distracted his rookie causing the loss.

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