WWE Tag Team Champions def. World Tag Team Champions (New Unified Tag Team Champions)
On The Grandest Stage of Them All, in front of 72,744 captivated members of the WWE Universe, WWE Tag Team Champions Carlito & Primo forged their place in history by defeating World Tag Team Champions John Morrison & The Miz in a Lumberjack Match to become the Unified WWE Tag Team Champions.

The high-stakes battle kept the electrified WWE Universe completely transfixed as each action-packed moment proved bigger than the one before it. The entire crowd held a collective breath with every near fall; every dangerous ascension to the top rope; every time a Superstar hurled his opponents to the dangerous lumberjacks in an absolute fast-paced, slugfest of epic proportions. In the end, Primo unified the gold in style, countering Morrison by borrowing his brother's Backstabber to snatch destiny’s three-count.

Problems between the two decorated tag teams can be summed up in three explosive words: Gold, girls and glory. The Colon Brothers and their “Dirt Sheet” adversaries each successfully defended their titles against the other, all while playing tug-of-war with the affections of Nikki & Brie Bella. On the same night that Carlito & Primo threw down the ultimate gauntlet for a Unification Match at WrestleMania, The Bellas split with each other, each lending their support to one of the tag teams. And just when it looked like the excitement could be no greater, ECW General Manager Theodore Long shocked Superstars and fans alike by declaring the historic battle a Lumberjack Match.

The World Tag Team Championship – the original tag team title of WWE – built an illustrious history on the backs of iconic brothers-in-arms that include Tony Atlas & Hall of Famer Rocky Johnson, The Hart Foundation, Demolition, Money Inc. and Edge & Christian. Fighting for tag team supremacy at WrestleMania meant risking life and limb, incorporating everything from the unforgiving cane of Freddie Blassie to the most lethal of ladders along the way.

When the WWE Tag Team Championship was created in 2002, it changed the very nature of tag team action in the process. From that point forth, there would always be two separate, elite tag team divisions. And though the new titles gained instant prestige, separation has never been where the true spirit of the tag team championship lays.

The best tag team is the one that is truly unified, transforming the diverse strengths of two Superstars into the fluidity and power of one. And on The Grandest Stage of Them All, every member of the WWE Universe stood witness as Carlito & Primo once again made that philosophy a reality, bringing things full-circle as they solidified themselves among the annals of tag team greatness.

CM Punk wins Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Mr. Money in the Bank CM Punk regained that status from last year, making history as the first person ever to win multiple Money in the Bank Ladder Matches.

The repeat golden opportunist overcame seven worthy opponents, the laws of probability and the laws of physics. In the week leading up to the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, The Straightedge Superstar admitted, “You really can’t ignore what a dangerous match this is.”

The briefcase dangled from a 265-foot ceiling and was only obtainable by stunning the seven other competitors long enough to climb one of multiple ladders towering 20 feet over the canvas to detach the coveted prize. It is a feat that is hard enough to accomplish once, but CM Punk has managed to fulfill mission impossible and win the contest twice in as many years.

The victor faced stiff competition, especially from Christian. Captain Charisma, who returned to WWE just more than a month prior, had made it his mission to win this bout, a stipulation he helped to create by participating in the first-ever Money in the Bank Ladder Match. He exuded the type of fearlessness it would have taken to make a run at his first World Title. He even miraculously survived a fall off the ladder while he was on top by catching himself on the ropes and pushing himself back upright, but in the end CM Punk proved he wanted it the most.

Another member of the first Money in the Bank contest was present, as Shelton Benjamin looked for his first win for the stipulation after participating in all but one of the contests that have existed. The former United States Champion is always known for making memorable moments in this type of match, and this year’s competition was no exception. He made the ladders his personal jungle gym, swinging off of them and pulling off impressive aerial moves. He even had Punk by his feet as The Straightedge Superstar dangled from a rung. Unfortunately for his seven opponents, Punk was in the same situation last year and like then, he overcame this time.

In addition to facing Christian and Benjamin, CM Punk had to withstand a current champion in United States Champion Montel Vontavious Porter, the high-flying Kofi Kingston, the experienced Finlay with help from his son Hornswoggle, and two massive, intimidating giants in Kane and Mark Henry. The Big Red Machine was a step away from securing the briefcase until Punk regained his balance after hanging by his legs and kicked Kane to the canvas. At that point, it was all CM Punk and no one was close enough to do anything about it.

Now, two questions remain. When will CM Punk cash in his title opportunity, and will he spend wisely and continue the streak of each Money in the Bank Ladder Match winner successfully earning championship gold within a year? Time will tell.

"Santina" Marella wins 25-Diva Battle Royal for title of "Miss WrestleMania"
Santino Marella may not have been allowed to compete for the coveted crown of “Miss WrestleMania” at the silver anniversary of WWE’s greatest spectacle … but it didn’t stop his “twin sister” Santina from besting 24 other Divas in Sunday’s Diva Battle Royal.

While more than 70,000 raucous fans inside Reliant Stadium, and the rest of the world watching the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania at home, rocked out to Kid Rock’s live performance of his hit single “So Hott,” that was hardly the term to describe “Santina's” surprise entrance, joining the Divas in their battle royal.

The WWE Universe was more than excited to see WWE Diva Alumni returning to the ring for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Former Divas Joy Giovanni, Miss Jackie, Molly Holly, the recently-retired Victoria and Torrie Wilson all made their way to the ring in hopes of once more achieving WWE glory on The Grandest Stage of Them All.

An all-out brawl began the match, with a flurry of fast-paced action, as one suspect Diva -- clad in pink shoes, a pink skirt and black form-fitting top -- watched the action as it unfolded within the squared circle. As one Diva after the next was strewn on the floor outside the ring, it came down to Beth Phoenix and Women's Champion Melina.

As Beth Phoenix attempted to throw Melina out of the ring, the low-key Diva flipped The Glamazon to the floor, eliminating both she and the Women's Champion. As Phoenix glared back inside the ring, the unknown Diva revealed her name: Santina Marella, Santino's twin sister from Italy.

And though Santino's twin sister may have taken the crown of "Miss WrestleMania" and danced in the ring after receiving her crown, on this night, hopefully, the memorable appearances of past Divas will ease the ugly memories of "Santina" for the WWE Universe.

Chris Jericho def. WWE Legends
When the dust finally settled inside Reliant Stadium Sunday night, the arrogant Chris Jericho may have emerged victorious in his battle against WWE Hall of Famers Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper & Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka, but it was Oscar nominee Mickey Rourke & WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair who stood tall, hands raised in the ring.

For months, Jericho had preached that Mickey Rourke’s Oscar -nominated role as Randy “The Ram” Robinson in The Wrestler supplied WWE’s Hall of Famers & Legends with false hope. The role, at least in Jericho’s eyes, gave the older ring warriors an illusion of grandeur, encouraging these “pathetic has-beens” – as Jericho was fond of referring to them – to continue to step into the squared circle.

Four Legends, each friends of Rourke, took offense to the claim, stating that they were the ones who had opened the door for Superstars like Jericho. On several occasions, WWE Hall of Famers Ric Flair, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka & Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat confronted Jericho, only to fall victim to the egotist’s underhanded and excessively brutal attacks.

Tensions finally reached their breaking point, leading Jericho to challenge the Hall of Famers to a 3-on-1 Handicap Match, with Flair in their corner. He also invited Rourke to the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania so that the actor might witness the carnage first-hand.

In Houston, it seemed as though everything was going exactly as Jericho had planned. He systematically eliminated his foes, first Snuka, then Piper and, finally, Steamboat.

During his post-match tirade, however, Jericho overstepped his bounds. After giving Flair a Codebreaker, the devious Superstar goaded Rourke into the ring. The star of The Wrestler entered the squared circle, but soon decided he’d heard enough of Jericho’s relentless taunts. Rourke, a former boxer, swung a slew of heavy fists at his tormentor, finishing with a punch that dimmed the lights of the conceited Superstar and dropped both him, and his pride, to the mat.

After Jericho regained his footing, he quickly retreated up the ramp, leaving the “Nature Boy” to enter the ring and join Rourke in celebration. The two friends did not rejoice for themselves, however, but rather for all the Hall of Famers, Legends and in-ring performers of the past who have helped to shape the WWE into what it is today.

Rey Mysterio def. JBL (New Intercontinental Champion)
For months, John “Bradshaw” Layfield had promised that he would accomplish something never before achieved at a WrestleMania that’s been 25 years in the making. On the final week before WrestleMania, he vowed to deliver “the most decisive victory in WrestleMania history.” And the vessel on whom he would carry out his claims was Rey Mysterio.

Well, JBL certainly lived up to his words in Houston’s Reliant Stadium Sunday night. And he did so in an astonishing 21 seconds, in front of more than 70,000 fans. The problem? He was on the losing end.

That’s right, WWE Universe – if you headed to the kitchen or Reliant Stadium concession stands for a beverage break, it’s quite conceivable that you actually did miss the ring official slap down a three-count that would award Rey Mysterio his first Intercontinental Championship … and in essence, send The Longhorn Loudmouth into a frenzy that resulted in him quitting right on the spot.

Truly, no one expected such an historic moment quite so quickly, especially considering the significant height advantage enjoyed by JBL. Mysterio – the David to JBL and his Goliath-sized ego – had no such benefits heading into his first WrestleMania since 2006, when he captured the World Championship. In fact, one could argue that Rey had even less of an advantage this time around; after all, the match had been set weeks in advance, giving JBL plenty of time to prepare. And even though Rey defeated JBL on Raw less than a week leading up to WrestleMania, one had to believe that the Wall Street media maven would know precisely how to counter the “Ultimate Underdog.”

Then again, JBL also probably thought that he would have been in this fight much longer than 21 seconds on Sunday night, particularly after several minutes of declaring himself a "hero" to the Lone Star State - a point vociferously debated by the fans he passed by en route to the ring. And when JBL nailed the Joker-themed Mysterio in the face with a boot before the bell even sounded, his historic victory seemed all but certain. But the bell did ring, and within those 21 seconds, Rey caught his opponent completely off-guard, nailing him with an immediate 619 inside the ropes and a Frog Splash off the top rope.

The 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania was the latest example in which Rey Mysterio proved to be the ultimate bane in JBL's otherwise pampered existence. It was Mysterio who had forced The Longhorn Loudmouth into a premature retirement on SmackDown back in May 2006. And on a Sunday night in Houston, less than three years later, he would do so again … and this time, judging from JBL’s irate reaction afterward, for good.

With that, more than 70,000 fans in Reliant Stadium welcomed Rey Mysterio as their newest Intercontinental Title holder Sunday night in Houston, and also made it abundantly clear that JBL would always be remembered in his final and most historic match in WWE history. Especially since they’d only need to remember less than a minute of it.

Source: WWE.com

TORONTO – With just three more sleeps until Christmas, Raw slid into Canada to deliver some holiday cheer – at least most Superstars were there to deliver cheer. A handful on the naughty list, however, did their level best to earn a few well-deserved lumps of coal. And one gave the hometown crowd a little something extra to cheer about.

World Heavyweight Champion John Cena & Trish Stratus def. Santino Marella & Women's Champion Beth Phoenix
It's a Christmas miracle! At least that's how World Heavyweight Champion John Cena categorized it before announcing that seven-time Women's Champion Trish Stratus would be teaming with him in place of Kelly Kelly, who left the arena distraught, against Santino Marella & Women's Champion Beth Phoenix. Needless to say, Stratus' fellow Canadians appreciated one of their own striking back against the arrogance of Glamarella and competing for the first time since September 2006. Stratusfaction guaranteed, Stratusfaction delivered.

Chris Jericho def. CM Punk
In the fourth and final bout of the night to determine who will advance to next week's Fatal Four Way Elimination Match, 2008 Slammy Award winner for Superstar of the Year Chris Jericho took on the challenge of CM Punk for the last slot in the Fatal Four Way Elimination Match. After a determined Punk appeared to have Jericho in his crosshairs, the ruthless Undisputed Champion summoned his unyielding longing and managed to conquer the Straightedge Superstar. Jericho's inclusion completes the lineup for next Monday's Fatal Four Way Elimination Match, including Shawn Michaels, JBL and Randy Orton as the Superstars compete for the opportunity to face John Cena for the World Heavyweight Championship at the Royal Rumble.

The Miz & John Morrison confront Kelly Kelly
Perhaps Kelly Kelly thought she was off the hook once she spilled The Miz's name to Kane last week when the Big Red Monster demanded to know the identity of her secret lover. If so, she doesn't know Miz & Morrison all that well. After letting them know that she will be Cena's partner in the Mixed Tag Team Match, the "Dirt Sheet" duo informed her that they heard a rumor that "somebody" broke into the Diva's hotel room and trashed the place. Why would anyone want to do that to "sweet, innocent Kelly Kelly?" asked Morrison.

Randy Orton def. Batista due to forfeit
Due to injuries suffered by Batista last week as a result of the punt to the head, compliments of Randy Orton, The Animal was unable to compete and forfeited the match. The forfeit allows Orton, who callously called the kick to Batista's skull his most satisfying, to advance into next week's Fatal Four Way Elimination Match in a battle to become the No. 1 contender to World Heavyweight Champion John Cena.

JBL def. Rey Mysterio by disqualification when HBK interferes on behalf of Mysterio
In the second match of the night to determine who will advance to next Monday's Fatal Four Way Elimination Match, the scales of injustice tipped in favor of JBL, with Shawn Michaels leaning heavily in his favor.

Just as JBL's opponent Rey Mysterio appeared to overcome the Longhorn Loudmouth's size advantage, sizing up the mouthy millionaire for a 619, Michaels charged down the entrance ramp. HBK, who had earlier discussed his money woes with longtime confidante Triple H, seized his benefactor Layfield, dragged him from the ring and slapped him across the face. The harsh action, while seemingly punitive to JBL, resulted in a disqualification for Rey. Michaels' interference permits JBL to advance to next Monday night's Fatal Four Way Match in the Race to the Rumble.

Melina & Mickie James def. Jillian Hall & Layla
With Intercontinental Champion William Regal observing intently, his lady-friend Layla teamed with Jillian Hall to battle Melina & Mickie James in a Divas Tag Team Match. After Jillian belted out a stomach-turning version of a holiday tune, the Divas got down to business. In the end, it was Melina who would silence Jillian by pinning her rival for the three-count.

Kofi Kingston def. Manu
He may have helped to distract John Cena last week, which allowed Randy Orton to punt Batista in the head, but Manu couldn't help himself tonight against high-flying Kofi Kingston. As his fellow second-generation Superstar Cody Rhodes looked on, Manu simply could not leverage his size and strength advantage to his favor, succumbing to the swift aerial assault of the Jamaican Sensation.

Afterward, Manu, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Afa, experienced a tense run-in with Randy Orton, the self-styled leader of the group of the second-generation Superstars; Manu interrupted a conversation between Orton and Sim Snuka, son of WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka.

Kane apologizes to Kelly Kelly; Shawn Michaels def. Kane
After accosting Kelly Kelly last week and scaring the bejeezus out of her, an ever-so-slightly less psychotic Big Red Monster apologized to the tormented Diva at the behest of Stephanie McMahon. Kane still did not learn the identity of Kelly Kelly's secret lover, but he did have a chance to take out his aggression on Shawn Michaels.

Unfortunately for Kane, HBK had some aggression of his own to vent. Michaels emerged victorious in the first of four matches of the night to determine who advances to the following Monday night's Fatal Four Way Elimination Match. The winner of the elimination bout will earn No. 1 contender status and face World Heavyweight Champion John Cena in a title match at the Royal Rumble.

Santino challenges John Cena; Cena accepted the Mixed Tag Team main event
Santino Marella, joined Women's Champion Beth Phoenix, kicked off Raw with all the holiday cheer of expired egg nog. The grinchin' goomba verged on revealing a "secret" he said he knows about Santa Claus, but before he could reveal the secret, World Heavyweight Champion John Cena interrupted. Cena told Santino not to mess with jolly, ol' Saint Nick, which prompted the Italian to challenge him to a match. John Cena and a Diva of his choosing will square off later tonight against Santino & Beth.

Taken from: WWE.com

PHILADELPHIA – When Raw rolled into the City of Brotherly Love for a special three-hour episode, it was one of the biggest shows of the year, featuring not one, but three massive main events, as well as the 2008 Slammy Awards. However, in spite of all that, the most pressing issue on the Superstars' minds was Armageddon. Though much of the night was colored by anticipation of this Sunday's event, the situation boiled over in the last minutes of Raw, with every Superstar involved in Armageddon's two World Title Matches rushing into the ring, creating a scene of complete and utter bedlam.

Chris Jericho won the Slammy Award for Superstar of the Year; World Heavyweight Champion John Cena vs. WWE Champion Edge ended in a no contest
The last Slammy awarded on Raw was perhaps the most prestigious: Superstar of the Year. Demonstrating the weight of this honor, Stephanie McMahon herself emerged to declare the winner. In what came as a great disappointment to the WWE Universe, the name she read was that of the reviled Chris Jericho. Affecting his normal smarmy, elitist attitude, Jericho took the podium and spoke at length of why he deserved the award. Lucky for our fans, however, his diatribe was interrupted by World Heavyweight Champion John Cena. Though The Champ wanted to chase after his slippery Armageddon opponent, he was held back by a referee in order to compete in his Champion vs. Champion Match against WWE Champion Edge.

Cena and Edge are no stranger to one another in the ring, with an extended rivalry in their past, but their main event on Raw was as intense as any of their past matches. Though both champions fought hard, the match ended as a no contest, after a run-in from the cowardly Chris Jericho, who took advantage of the situation to attack Cena, mere days before their World Heavyweight Title Match. With Cena distracted, Triple H stormed the ring to attack Edge, and with the later involvement of Jeff Hardy, all three contenders in the WWE Championship Match at Armageddon battled it out in the ring, as Cena and Jericho's brawl spilled out into the crowd.

Dolph Ziggler def. R-Truth
As seen on WWE.com earlier today, R-Truth won a Slammy Award for Best Musical Performance. The rapping ring warrior's fortunes took a downturn on Raw, however, as he faced off against Dolph Ziggler, who beat the rapping Superstar by disqualification. Following the contest, the victor greeted the audience, saying "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm the winner, Dolph Ziggler."

The Great Khali won the Slammy Award for "DAMN!" Moment of the Year
Who better to give out the award for "DAMN!" Moment of the Year than the man who can bark that word like none other, Ron Simmons? Along with Mickie James, Simmons presented the award to The Great Khali for his Khali Kiss Cam segments on SmackDown. The Punjabi Giant spoke of the fleeting nature of material possessions, which warmed Mickie's heart to the humongous Superstar. As they looked in one another's eyes, the arena was filled with Superstars such as Jillian Hall, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan, Sgt. Slaughter, Kung Fu Naki and even WWE personality Howard Finkel, creating another "DAMN!" Moment right there on Raw. As The Great Khali and Mickie kissed, Ron Simmons had little choice but to brandish his signature catchphrase.

Randy Orton, Manu & Cody Rhodes def. Triple H & Batista in a Handicap Match
Making good on his challenge from earlier in the night, Orton and the team he calls "The Legacy," including Manu & Cody Rhodes faced off against Triple H & Batista. Though the contest was a 3-on-2 Handicap Match, the outcome was nowhere near certain, as Triple H & Batista are not only among the current roster's most dominant athletes, but are also two of the most powerful Superstars in WWE history. In spite of their wealth of strength and ability, however, they were unable to compete against the odds stacked against them, with Randy Orton hitting Batista with a vicious RKO to pick up the win in his team's first match together.

Shawn Michaels won the Slammy Award for Match of the Year, but the award was taken by JBL
The highly-coveted Slammy for Match of the Year was presented by SmackDown's Eve and the star of the upcoming film Behind Enemy Lines: Colombia, Mr. Kennedy. Paying homage to the "Nature Boy" himself, this award went to Ric Flair's Career Threatening Match against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXIV. HBK came to the podium to give an emotional acceptance speech, but was interrupted by JBL, who had one week prior made an employment offer to Michaels. The self-proclaimed "wrestling god" took the award from Shawn, and declared himself the winner for his Parking Lot Brawl Match against John Cena at The Great American Bash, before leaving the stage and a dejected Michaels standing empty-handed.

World Tag Team Champion CM Punk won the Slammy Award for OMG Moment of the Year; Rey Mysterio def. World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston to advance to the finals of the Intercontinental Title Tournament; Rey Mysterio to face CM Punk at Armageddon
To give out the Slammy Award for OMG Moment of the Year, Lilian Garcia announced ECW's Alicia Fox and the WWE personality who can be heard saying "Oh my god!" weekly on WWE.com, Joey Styles. The two revealed the winner to be World Tag Team Champion CM Punk, for cashing in Money in the Bank to beat Edge and win his first World Heavyweight Championship. The Straightedge Superstar was gracious in his acceptance, stating his intention to go the distance and win the Intercontinental Title from William Regal after winning the tournament.

After Punk's acceptance, his partner, World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston, made his way to the ring to participate in that same Intercontinental Title Tournament. The Jamaican Superstar didn't have the same success as his partner, however, as Rey Mysterio defeated him in the two's first-ever match-up. The Master of the 619 will now go on to Armageddon this Sunday to compete against CM Punk for the opportunity to face Intercontinental Champion William Regal.

Edge & Vickie Guerrero won the Slammy Award for Couple of the Year; Finlay & Hornswoggle def. Santino Marella & Women's Champion Beth Phoenix; Beth Phoenix won the Slammy Award for Diva of the Year
To announce the winner of Couple of the Year, an unusual pairing made their way to the podium: The radiant Kelly Kelly and the Big Red Monster Kane. Giving the SmackDown General Manager a chance to subject Raw to her screeching, Vickie Guerrero was announced the winner along with her husband, WWE Champion Edge. One pair, however, was particularly put out that they had been looked over for the award, and Glamarella wasn't going to take it sitting down. Santino Marella & Women's Champion Beth Phoenix went on to challenge any "couple" in WWE to face them.

The two got more than they bargained for however, when Finlay & Hornswoggle emerged to accept the challenge. The Belfast Brawler & his diminutive son ran roughshod over Glamarella, further contributing to their discontent at the Slammy loss. But before the couple could leave the ring, ECW General Manager Teddy Long and Melina came out to the podium to announce the winner of Diva of the Year. Though it displeased her to announce it, Melina read Beth Phoenix's name. As The Glamazon attempted to accept her award, she broke out into a fight with her rival Diva that resulted in Santino getting hit in the groin.

Jeff Hardy won the Slammy Award for Extreme Moment of the Year; Chris Jericho def. Jeff Hardy
ECW Champion Matt Hardy made a special appearance on Raw to hand out the Slammy for Extreme Moment of the Year with the lovely Tiffany at his side. In what was a special moment for the two Hardys, Matt opened the envelope to discover that his brother Jeff had won for performing a Swanton Bomb on Randy Orton off the Raw set. Though Jeff was excited, and spoke of his plans to leave Armageddon having defeated WWE Champion Edge and Triple H to become the new champion, his exuberance quickly turned to dejection when he had to face the nefarious Chris Jericho. The first-ever Undisputed Champion proved why he continues to be a devastating force on Raw by pinning the Enigmatic Superstar for the win.

MVC (Most Valuable Charlie) def. MVP
SmackDown's MVP appeared on Raw hoping to break his long-running losing streak. After taunting Philadelphia Philly Jimmy Rollins at ringside, the Ballin' Superstar's opponent was revealed to be someone who looked very familiar. Charlie Haas, who had earlier in the day won the Slammy for Best Impersonation for his role as The GlamaHaas (as seen on WWE.com), came to the ring outfitted as MVP, bodysuit included. Unfortunately for Montel Vontavious Porter, his arrogant posturing got the best of him, leading to a win for the Most Valuable Charlie.

Evan Bourne won the Slammy Award for Best Finishing Maneuver; Randy Orton challenged Batista & Triple H to a Handicap Match
Evan Bourne's phenomenal Shooting Star Press was selected as the Best Finishing Maneuver of 2008, but it wasn't the high-flyer who arrived to accept the award from Candice Michelle and Cryme Tyme. Unfortunately, it was the man who had further injured the recuperating "Air" Bourne, Mike Knox. The Desert Destroyer took the coveted award before leaving the arena.

Following Knox's deplorable actions, another bitter Superstar emerged: Randy Orton. The Legend Killer was incensed that he was left out of the running for Superstar of the Year, and as a way of redeeming himself, challenged Triple H and Orton's Armageddon opponent, Batista, to a Handicap Match against the team of himself, Manu & Cody Rhodes, stating that "The Legacy is born."

The Miz & John Morrison won the Slammy Award for Tag Team of the Year; World Tag Team Champion CM Punk def. John Morrison to advance to the finals of the Intercontinental Title Tournament
Maria and Festus took to the stage at the top of the show to hand out the Slammy for Tag Team of the Year. The Miz & John Morrison were revealed to be the winners and the "Dirt Sheet" duo came out to accept, claiming to be not only the best tag team of 2008, but of the 21st century. Following the award, John Morrison entered the ring to compete against CM Punk in an effort to move ahead in the Intercontinental Title Tournament.

Though Morrison had claimed to be one-half of the finest ring tandem of this century, on Raw he was unable to stand up to the assault of one-half of the World Tag Team Champions. CM Punk defeated the Shaman of Sexy to move one step closer to facing 2008 King of the Ring William Regal for his Intercontinental Title.

Taken from: WWE.com

MANCHESTER, England – As part of WWE's tour of the United Kingdom, Monday Night Raw appeared in Manchester, England, before a sold-out crowd. In the absence of a General Manager, following Mike Adamle's resignation, Stephanie McMahon appeared early in the show to set the tone for the night. Though she denied Batista's request for a rematch against World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho, she did make matches intended to put an end to two of Raw's most heated rivalries: World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels in a Last Man Standing Match and Rey Mysterio vs. Kane in a No Disqualification Match. WATCH all of the action now in the Raw Quick Cut and check out WWE.com's exclusive ringside PHOTOS.

World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho def. Shawn Michaels in a Last Man Standing Match
Though Chris Jericho's World Heavyweight Title wasn't being defended, there was still a lot on the line as these two Superstars faced off in one of WWE's most grueling matches. Designed to put an end to the long-running, extremely personal rivalry between Jericho and HBK, the ring warriors gave their all in front of the WWE Universe in Manchester. As has been his modus operandi, however, Jericho refused to fight fairly, and was assisted during the match by JBL, who was eager to do damage against his opposing Survivor Series team captain, Shawn Michaels. Though HBK hit Jericho with Sweet Chin Music, The Showstopper was subsequently the victim of a steel chair shot from JBL, allowing the World Heavyweight Champion to pull himself to his feet for the win.

Women's Champion Beth Phoenix def. Mickie James
Both members of Glamarella were forced to defend their titles on Monday night, with Santino Marella losing the Intercontinental Title to William Regal, and Beth Phoenix defending her Women's Championship against Mickie James. The Glamazon was able to retain some of Glamarella's glory, by defeating James and retaining her gold.

Batista def. Cody Rhodes who took Randy Orton's place in the match
Randy Orton came to the ring ready to face Batista, but after his entrance, Cody Rhodes & Manu joined them in the ring. Rhodes then told the Legend Killer that he would take on Batista and show Orton how it's done. Unfortunately for Rhodes, however, he was unable to tame The Animal, who not only defeated the second-generation Superstar, but also speared Manu, as Orton looked on from the ramp.

Rey Mysterio def. Kane in a No Disqualification Match
In a contest designed to put an end to the months-long rivalry between Rey Mysterio and Kane, the Master of the 619 faced the Big Red Monster in a No Disqualification Match. Though the two ring warriors had faced one another in traditional singles competition and tag team matches, never before had they been given such complete freedom to do damage to one another. Though there were no fetters holding back the outrageous power of the 7-footer, it was the speed and ingenuity of Mysterio that won the day, with the Ultimate Underdog pinning Kane for the win.

Following the match, Randy Orton was confronted by Cody Rhodes and Manu in the locker room area. The two second-generation Superstars told Orton that they weren't going to let him get away with punting their associate, Ted DiBiase, in the head the week before. The Legend Killer claimed that DiBiase was the weak link in their group and that he did them a favor by taking him out of commission. Rhodes responded by slapping Orton in the face. The youngest World Heavyweight Champion in history moved toward the younger Superstar with rage in his eyes, but reluctantly decided to back off after an angry Manu placed himself in Orton's way.

Mike Knox def. D-Lo Brown
In Mike Knox's first match as a member of the Raw brand, he faced D-Lo Brown. The Desert Destroyer steamrolled over Brown, making clear his intention to become a force to be reckoned with on Monday nights.

After the match, Women's Champion Beth Phoenix attempted to console her beau, Santino Marella over his lost Intercontinental Title. The Italian Superstar had just gotten off the phone with Shane McMahon, and alerted The Glamazon that she would be defending her title later in the night against Mickie James.

William Regal def. Santino Marella to become the new Intercontinental Champion
Santino Marella came to the ring as he normally does, accompanied by Women's Champion Beth Phoenix, and flaunting the length of his Intercontinental Title reign. The Italian Superstar even discarded the Honk-A-Meter for the new Honk-A-Perfect-Mountie-Meter, combining the title reigns of Honky Tonk Man, Mr. Perfect and The Mountie for a total of 123 weeks, which Santino was only two years and four months from beating. Marella's hopes were dashed, however, by William Regal, who competing in his homeland of England and accompanied by fellow Brit, Layla, quickly defeated the braggadocios Italian to become the new Intercontinental Champion.

Stephanie McMahon denied Batista his rematch for the World Heavyweight Championship and made two huge matches for the night's show; Batista challenged Randy Orton to a match and then speared the Legend Killer
After losing the World Heavyweight Championship to Chris Jericho in a Steel Cage Match the week before, Batista was eager invoke his rematch clause on Raw. However, Stephanie McMahon appeared on the TitanTron to address The Animal, alerting him that due to her brother Shane's promise that whoever won the Steel Cage Match would go on to face John Cena at Survivor Series, she was unable to grant Batista's request until after the pay-per-view event. Though the WWE Universe wouldn't see the World Heavyweight Championship defended, Stephanie did make two matches designed to bring closure to some of Raw's most heated rivalries: Rey Mysterio vs. Kane in a No Disqualification Match and World Heavyweight Champion Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels in a Last Man Standing Match.

After those announcements, Randy Orton made his way to the ring, dredging up bad history from he and Batista's days in Evolution. The Legend Killer then told The Animal that after Cena, it was his turn for a title opportunity, not Batista's. Since Stephanie McMahon had already made the night about settling old scores, The Animal challenged Orton to a match live on Raw. The third-generation Superstar accepted the challenge with an insult to Batista, who then attempted to hit Orton with a Batista Bomb, before the Legend Killer escaped and fled the ring.

Taken from: wwe.com

Jim Cornette Vows To Break Vince McMahon
by Patrick Lennon

If you're taking on the big boys in wrestling, you need brains as well as brawn.

Jim Cornette is one of the most prolific creative minds in the wrestling industry, as well as being a right old wheeze on screen.

His pedigree in promotion, booking and experience on camera is matched by very few people in the industry at large.

Cornette is probably most famous with the public for his managerial roles on screen with the Midnight Express and Yokozuna and more recently for laying some flesh on a young Santino Marella when in charge of OVW, then WWE
Developmental.

For those who don't know, Marella had broken character on TV and laughed at Boogeyman. Cornette tells me he'd do it again in an instant.

A reputation as an abrasive fellow may well be justified, but his passion for the business is never in question. Cornette refuses to fly yet Fighting Talk caught up with him in Chicago straight after Bound For Glory, which is not a short
drive from his Kentucky home.

An elated Cornette greeted me backstage and lived up to his reputation for making Mick Foley look like Giorgio Armani, dressed as he was in T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms.

Cornette was taken aback when FT asked him about the deposition of Samoa Joe as Champion (he had just lost out to Sting) and tells me they didn't do anything wrong.

He said: "I don't think so. I simply don't think so. "I'm a fan of the young guys, the Samoa Joes, the AJ Styles, and the Beer Moneys.

"I think that they keep the veterans on their toes. When was the last time you saw Sting take an ass-whippin' like that?

"He was whipped across Texas, or he was going to the electric chair, and that's what Joe did. I love to watch people fight."

TNA are rightly celebrating their fourth annual showpiece as their best PPV offering to date. Cornette on the whole agreed with that assessment and argued that there is still room for improvement.

He tells me: "I think there was a lot of action tonight. I'm old-fashioned, I don't like to see so many weapons.

"I like people to beat each other up with their bare hands so I think the PPV that TNA did with the two guys in the MMA match was great but I think this was great too. Both were very different."

Cornette has a good idea of what it takes in promotion. Although his own Smokey Mountain Wrestling was a shortlived experiment in the Nineties, it provided invaluable assistance to a few big names on top of the pile today.

Ask Chris Jericho what he learned from Cornette. Building a viable alternative to WWE has been the TNA quest and although fans may be struggling to find the money to indulge their grapple habits, Cornette believes his current employers are moving in the right direction.

He says: "Everyone has their own particular taste and mine would be different to everybody else. TNA has the young talent, TNA has the alternative product, they are breaking a monopoly, a trust that's been together in wrestling a long time - that if it's not WWE, then it's not major league.

"Well TNA proved tonight, as they've proved every time they go on national television, every time they go on PPV, that there are two major leagues now."

FT believes the young TNA stalwarts should feature heavily at the head of the card if it is to look like an alternative.

Cornette gave me his pick of the bunch, and Champion elect AJ Styles is among them.

He added: "Beer Money - Robert Roode and James Storm - are the next ones to watch, plus Matt Morgan. He's incredible.
"Beer Money remind me of Tully Blanchard and Arn Anderson. I'd love for the Midnight Express to be in their prime so we could have a match with them."

TNA are blessed with the man's talent, that much is certain.

Before he darted back to the hotel, he issued his battle cry: "Have you seen the stock market? Vince is not a billionaire any more! He may not even be a millionaire by the time this thing's over! I will sacrifice every penny I've got and cut my neighbour's lawn to see Vince McMahon a broken man laying in the gutter!"

Taken from: http://www.dailystar.co.uk/inthering/view/57203/TNA-exclusive-Jim-Cornette-vows-to-break-Vince-McMahon/

Here are the results for WWE Cyber Sunday 2008 which held in the US Airways Center in Phoenix, Arizona on October 26, 2008:

• Shelton Benjamin def. R-Truth in a singles match to retain the United States Title

• Rey Mysterio def. Kane in a No Holds Barred match

• Matt Hardy def. Evan Bourne in a singles match to retain the ECW Title

• John Morrison and The Miz def. Cryme Tyme (JTG and Shad) in a tag team match

• Honky Tonk Man def. WWE Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella by disqualification in a singles match

• Undertaker def. Big Show in a Last Man Standing match

• Mickie James (as Lara Croft) was voted as the winner of Divas Halloween costume contest

• Triple H def. Jeff Hardy in a singles match to retain the WWE Title

• Batista def. Chris Jericho in a singles match to become the new World Heavyweight Champion with Stone Cold Steve Austin as the special guest referee

Interview with WWE's Santino Marella by Brian Fritz

Typically when I conduct interviews with wrestlers, they are out-of-character. But there is one person that I wouldn't mind speaking to in character - Santino Marella. When we spoke earlier this week, he instantly broke out his "Italian" accent and laid it on thick. The guy is one of the most original and funny characters in the WWE for some time so I knew it would be fun speaking to the current Intercontinental Champion.

This Sunday, he will defend his championship on the Cyber Sunday pay-per-view where fans can vote on who his opponent will be - Rowdy Roddy Piper, Goldust, or the longest reigning IC champion in history, the Honky Tonk Man. When reading the interview, just imagine him speaking like only Santino can.

Are you looking forward to the show on Sunday?

This is going to be my first time in Cyber Sunday and it's interesting because it's up to the fans. It's truly up to the fans. I've prepared myself to fight all three of my potential opponents and when the time comes, I will fight one of them.

Fans can vote on who will be your opponent which will be either Roddy Piper, Goldust or the Honky Tonk Man. You've got a little bit of a history with Piper.

I do have history that son-um-a-gun. First, I was a fan of Roddy Piper myself, trying to give him compliments but he slapped me in the face. Then I go see him and his friend Cousin Sal and he interfered again. This guy definitely needs a reminder to keep his manners to himself.

Let's talk about the Honky Tony Man. How exactly did the Honk-a-Meter come about?

The Honk-a-Meter is something I devised one day while sipping a Cappuccino. I thought what a better way to document my chasing of this record by creating a devise that the most simplest person could follow – the Honk-a-Meter.

I believe you're a little behind him with you at ten weeks and he is at 64 weeks for his reign as Intercontinental Champion.
That's right – this Monday is going to be eleven so in one week's time and one year's time, I will be just about to tie the record. I'd like to beat him. If I were to beat his record – how fitting would it be to beat him and his record?

Do you have any preference on who you would like to face?

I do not know. It's like vanilla, chocolate or strawberry – they're all delicious flavors of ice cream but I can't choose. Either way it's going to be a great night for me. We're going to go, we're going to fight, we're going to win, we're going to have an after-party like we usually do – limousines, nightclubs, everything. We're going to have fun and it's going to be a great chapter in my life but along the way it's going to be a really bad night for someone. Someone is going to have to be a victim to my supreme ability. It's hard to say. I don't want to guide the audience towards one person – Honky Man – but if I had to choose one, I'm not sure. Maybe the Honky Donkey Man.

This last year or so has been a very good one for you in the WWE. What has this been like for you, especially since you haven't been with the company long?

Yeah, it's just over a year and a half. Life has changed pretty much – on the go, on the go. I have work life, family life, social life – my work life is obviously very different. My social life – I had a couple of different girlfriends with the Glamizon and Maria before that. In between those two when I go out, it's pretty interesting being me I must say. Sometimes I miss my family a little bit but that's the price you have to pay to become a real superstar.

You mentioned the Glamizon. What has it been like to work with Beth Phoenix?

Beth Phoenix – she is a consummate professional. She's fun. She has some things to protect – she's the Glamizon. She has an image and sometimes she's a little bit tough to me but she's a big kid. She's fun.

What is it like for you right now performing, having fun and coming up with new material and along the way have some matches from time to time.

I'm love touring. I love putting on shows and entertaining people. I can see in the people's faces that when I'm out there, they’re not thinking about much else. They’re not worrying about the bills or the kids. They’re just having fun and if I can provide that to people all over the world that's not a bad thing. The house shows are fun. The house shows are where I get to wrestle and have some longer matches than on TV and that's where the real magic happens in the ring. TV is great but to see WWE live in action is something else. Then, you're going to go home with some really good memories. I know I have good memories from when I was a kid from watching wrestling.

Who were some of your favorites growing up and maybe you can take from now in your career?
I was, of, course, a Hulkamaniac like everyone else. I like Jimmy Snuka, Davey Boy Smith, there are lots of guys – Mr. Perfect, he was good. Mostly guys that are like me – very strong, athletic, charisma. Maybe that's why I became the way I am.

Did you have any kind of background in comedy before you started in pro wrestling?

I was just the class clown, that's about it. In school, I was very funny. My grandmother and my cousins think I'm funny but no formal training.

One thing I really enjoy is Santino's Casa which you do every week on WWE.com. How is that going and where do you come up with the material for it?

Ah, Santino's Casa seems to be going really good. I think there are more viewers week after week. The material is what's current and in the news. Just something I want to talk about, things that are on my mind – current issues. It's fun. Santino's Casa is every Monday at Raw before the show I go into a room and do the Casa. It's fun and I look forward to it every week. It's a chance for me to express myself. It's like a blank canvas for me to paint my opinions.

You know, at Cyber Sunday you could run into Stone Cold Steve Austin who you've had some problems with in the past. What will you say to him if you cross paths?

I'm going to demand an apology from him. I'm going to bring him my shirt which I've been carrying around for months and months now for him to dry clean. I'm going to have a nice, long sit down talk with Mr. Stone Cold Steve Austin. He has a bad attitude and maybe I can reach him and make him change because what he did was disgusting.

You haven't watched his movie The Condemned again, have you?

No, I use it as a coaster (laughs).

Good luck at Cyber Sunday.

Thank you very much!

Taken from: http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/wrestling/2008/10/interview-with.html