Posted in: Doctor's Orders
Doctor's Orders: The Road to Wrestlemania (East Regional Rounds 1 and 2)
By Dr. CMV1
Jan 9, 2011 - 3:00:00 AM

Sunday, January 9, 2011: East Regional Round 2

CMV1: Welcome back, ladies and gentlemen. In the first round of the east regional, there was really just one major upset and it came in the form of the WWE Chairman losing to the 12th seeded Greg Valentine. Today, Valentine renews an old rivalry with Roddy Piper.

Daniel Bryan: You’re going to see some old school grappling today. These two don’t know any other way but the way that they became known for in the 80’s. That’s not a bad thing. I think it’ll be a good change of pace…

The Miz: This one could get ugly, if you ask me. Roddy Piper is stubborn, but confident man. Valentine is a rough and rugged wrestler. I think Valentine possesses the skills to continue his Cinderella run, but Piper is cunning.

CMV1: The action is about to begin in Philadelphia, so let’s take you were now…

Philadelphia, PA

Announcer: Joel Gertner
Referee: Dave Hebner
Commentators: Joey Styles and Paul Heyman

4 Rowdy Roddy Piper vs. 12 Greg “The Hammer” Valentine

This old school match-up took on a newer school twist when Piper asked Valentine to make this a hardcore match. Again, Dave Hebner looked utterly clueless. Luckily, Bill Alfonso was sitting at ringside and Paul Heyman convinced him to give Hebner the reprieve. It took a few moments for the official word to come down that the change in match type was being allowed. However, it didn’t really get hardcore until after the first few minutes. After wrestling each other to the mat and rolling around all over the place, including over and across Alfonso, they each went outside and came back into the ring wielding steel chairs. Before they could hit each other, Piper held up a finger and went back outside. Under the ring, he found what he wanted and came back with a very long steel chain with two dog collars attached to the ends. He tossed one end to the Hammer and, while they didn’t don the collars, they each tugged on a side of the chain. It was Valentine that managed to grab enough chain to turn it into a multi-linked whip. He walloped Piper across the back, sending him to his knees, but Roddy tripped the Hammer to the mat using the extra slack gained from their close proximity. They got tangled up in the chain while rolling around beating the crap out of each other – to the point that they eventually couldn’t really throw much of a punch. Alfonso had to help untangle them. As soon as they were free, each went for their respective steel chairs. Valentine swung and missed; Piper swung and missed. Then, they swung at the same time and cracked their chairs together. They swung at the same time again and cracked each other. The sound of the bodies and chairs crashing to the mat could be heard back to the lower bowl of the arena. It was the Hammer that made it back to his feet first…and when he did, he started dropping the hammer - one elbow smash after another until Piper fell out of the ring. While on the floor, he quietly rummaged under the ring again. When Valentine approached him from the ring apron, Piper appeared out from under the ring with the hose end of a fire extinguisher! SPRAY! The Hammer got a big dose right in the eyes. Piper got back in the ring and got the crowd laughing and cheering when he dodged Valentine’s blind attempts at offense. The Hammer swung hard, missed completely, and exposed his back so that Piper could latch on the Sleeper Hold. A minute later and Valentine’s arm had gone down thrice. That was all she wrote at 14:17.

----------------------------------

CMV1: Coming up next, folks, we will wrap up our time in Atlantic City with arguably the match of the East Regional Round 2 – even though it won’t receive the coverage as one. Chris Jericho vs. Randy Savage is a dream match…

The Miz: That term is thrown around very rarely, so when you get a match like this, you gotta appreciate it. This is going to be awesome…with a capital…A!

Daniel Bryan: I can’t help but share that enthusiasm for a match of this caliber. This is two guys that legitimately win the tournament facing off in the round with now 31 other people still in it.

CMV1: Let’s go to Tony Chimel for the introductions…

Atlantic City, NJ

Announcer: Tony Chimel
Referee: Mike Chioda
Commentators: Michael Cole and Tazz

3 Macho Man Randy Savage vs. 6 Chris Jericho

Cole rightfully hailed this as a dream match as both parties were being introduced by the ring announcer. The crowd that had once seen Savage crowned the WWE champion after beating four other men in one night pegged him the clear cut fan favorite, leaving Jericho to relish in his preferred role as the villain. The lovely Miss Elizabeth joined Savage at ringside, hoping to give him the edge he’d need. Jericho stood alone and confident. When the bell rang and the two went into a collar and elbow tie up, the crowd nearly exploded with excitement. This was clearly the match they’d been hoping for since the brackets were announced weeks ago. Neither man wasted any time making his intentions clear with his actions: each one wanted to win quickly. A quick series of roll-ups and pinning combinations highlighted the first few minutes of action. Jericho clearly wanted to make this a mat wrestling match, but to his surprise Savage seemed game. So, Y2J decided to up the ante, slapping Savage hard across the face. The mind game worked, as Savage took off after Jericho, who scampered outside the ring.

Jericho re-entered the ring first and was waiting for Savage upon his arrival, kicking him in the upper back and neck and gaining the much needed momentum. He gave him a dropkick and a back drop and tried for an early cover to no more than a one count. Back to their feet, they jockeyed for position in the corner. Jericho maintained the upper hand, chopping Randy across the chest and tried to whip across to the opposite side of the ring. Savage countered and it was Jericho that ended up against the opposite turnbuckle. Macho charged hard for a strike, but Jericho moved out of the way and planted him with a running one handed facebuster. Jericho went for the Lionsault, but Savage moved out of the way. Randy immediately went up to the top rope, but Jericho met him up there before he could deliver an aerial assault. They battled gingerly on the ropes until Savage pushed him off. As Jericho landed hard on his back, Savage prepared himself and moments later leaped off the top rope looking for the elbow drop. Y2J saw it just in time and scampered out of range, sending Savage crashing into nothing but canvas.

The self-proclaimed Best in the World went for and this time connected with the Lionsault. 1…2…No! Savaged just barely kicked out. Jericho did not hesitate to go for the Walls, but as he was trying to pull Savage over, Macho countered into a cradle pin attempt for a near fall of his own. Randy got back to his feet, but was met with a Jericho running enziguiri to the back of the head. Y2J taunted the crowd, while Miss Elizabeth spoke to Savage to try and revive him. The crowd chanted “Let’s Go Macho.” Jericho went for a punch when Randy got back to his feet, but Savage blocked and unleashed a series of quick jabs followed by a clothesline. Another clothesline followed before Macho grabbed Jericho’s head, ran toward the ropes, leaped over, and snapped Y2J’s throat across the top. Jericho bounced back into the center of the ring. Savage went to the top rope and raised his hands high into the air. Jericho made it to his feet, but was met with a flying double axe handle smash right to the forehead. He went down like a sack of potatoes for the one, two…NO! He kicked out!

The first Undisputed Champion showed his resilience and wherewithal again moments later. Macho lifted him into the air for an atomic drop, but Jericho countered in mid-move, shifted his body weight around, and stunned both Savage and the live crowd by connecting with the Codebreaker! It earned him the one and the two, but not the three! This time it was Savage showing the wherewithal! Both men eventually made it back to their feet. A frustrated Jericho tried again to lock on the Walls, but Savage countered and managed to score a neckbreaker, leaving Jericho on his back mid-ring. Macho went back to the top rope, signaled to the frenzied crowd, and came flying off for the elbow drop. Jericho moved again! He quickly grabbed hold of Savage’s legs and locked on the Walls of Jericho. Savaged screamed in pain, his face wild with agony and despair. “Ask him,” Jericho shouted at the ref! Macho would not give up and crawled toward the ropes to break the hold. He nearly got there when Jericho pulled him back to the center of the ring. Yet, when he went to sit back again and reapply the full pressure, Savage got one foot loose and kicked Jericho in the mouth. The shot to the face halted Jericho’s progress long enough for Savage to jump around him, grab him by the tights, and take him down for a quick 1, 2, and finally the 3! Macho Man defeated Chris Jericho at 23:56.

--------------------------------------

CMV1: Before we sign off for the week, this is Chad Matthews with your official Road to Wrestlemania prediction contest report. None of the 24 participants in the contest correctly predicted the East Regional first and second rounds perfectly (which would’ve been good for a total possible score of 16 – 1 point for Round 1 and 2 points for Round 2). However, four people got 15 points, with each correctly predicting the four East Regional inclusions in the Sports Entertainment 16, while missing just one of the first round matches. Congratulations to Brandon Ray, G-Star, Mr. Starbuck, and Hurra Duff for leading after the first two rounds in the East. Adam S. and Pat. B are right behind them with 14 points apiece. Here’s how it breaks down…

Brandon - 15
Mr. Starbuck - 15
Hurra Duff - 15
G-Star - 15
Adam S. – 14
Pat B. - 14
Hitesh - 13
Mike D. - 13
Ian - 13
Andre - 13
Mavsman - 13
Priest - 13
David D. - 13
Jay Atton - 12
Jack Awe - 12
Azreal - 12
Speyder - 12
Kafu - 12
Paulthee - 12
Tom – 12
Jimmy - 12
Adderly - 10
Sean T. - 9
Michael B. - 9

---------------------------------


Saturday, January 8, 2011: East Regional Round 2

CMV1: Welcome to the first Round 2 action of the tournament. Today we’ll be reading the winners of the matches on Thursday facing off against each other for a spot in the Sports Entertainment 16. Our first match is Sgt. Slaughter, the former WWE Champion, against the 9-time former champion, John Cena.

Daniel Bryan: I think Cena has to be careful here. We know he’s resilient but Slaughter has a mean streak that could hang with the best of them. You turn on your country and you’ve got some serious metal downstairs.

The Miz: You would talk about what he’s got down there. I don’t like John Cena and I hope he loses. Slaughter for the win!

CMV1: Let’s get you to Atlantic City…

Atlantic City, NJ

Announcer: Tony Chimel
Referee: Mike Chioda
Commentators: Michael Cole and Tazz

1 John Cena vs. 8 Sgt. Slaughter

Cole and Tazz hyped the ground and pound style of both men, as Cena took early control with a headlock take down. He had synched in for a good 30-seconds before Slaughter got back to a standing base and switched into a hammer lock. Cena countered into an armbar, but then Slaughter grabbed one of his own and wrestled Cena to the mat. He began punching the multi-champion in the back of the head. Cena showed he was game for a brawl and delivered some punches of his own to gain momentum, but it was quickly lost when he went for a Prototype spinning back drop only to see Slaughter counter into a back breaker. The Sarge proceeded to work over Cena’s lower back to take away his strength advantage. He dropped his elbow into Cena’s lumbar spine, then stomped at it repeatedly. It was when Slaughter latched on an abdominal stretch that it really appeared to the crowd that Cena might be done for. He looked out of it and in terrible pain. Mike Chioda, however, caught Sarge grabbing onto the ropes for leverage and broke the hold, allowing Cena the opportunity he needed to clothesline Slaughter over the top rope and buy himself a minute to recuperate. When Sarge got back in the ring, Cena went on to the attack, but in ways that kept his lower back protected. He punched, he kicked, and he even dropped Sarge with the Throwback/Blockbuster, but when he went for the spinning back drop to set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle, he couldn’t execute. Sarge took advantage and gave him another back breaker before locking on the Camel Clutch. Cena struggled for a moment and his hand came up signaling that he might tap out, but he didn’t go through with it. Instead, he used what remaining power he had left to inch toward and eventually grab the ropes. Slaughter broke the hold, but immediately got up and stalked Cena, readying himself for the Cobra Clutch once Cena returned to his feet. As John reached his feet, Sarge closed in. When he grabbed Cena’s arm, though, he didn’t get his desired result. Rather than hook the standing Clutch, he found himself high in the air, facing the rafters atop Cena’s shoulders. Cena had ignored the fatigue in his lower back and hoisted Sarge onto his shoulders, inverted from the usual Attitude Adjustment position. He threw Sarge into the air into a modified Death Valley Driver, causing him to land on his stomach instead of his back, thus allowing Cena to immediately fall on top of him and lock on the STF. Sarge almost immediately tapped out at 13:56.

-------------------------------------

CMV1: Well, we now know that John Cena will be in the S-E 16. Who will join him: Lesnar or Triple H? I think either way we’re looking at a dream match their winner facing either Jericho or Savage, but most people seem to think that the Game is going down in just a few minutes. Thoughts?

The Miz: I’m going to be surprised to see Lesnar lose. As good as Triple H is, Brock Lesnar is a prodigy in this business…a prodigy in two different businesses. He learns so quickly and can adapt to all kinds of opponents. He’s an awesome force.

Daniel Bryan: True, but we’re talking about Triple H, here. This isn’t just some guy…this is a guy who has committed his life to the sport of professional wrestling, in the mold of a guy like Ric Flair. Triple H is going to work his tail off to beat Lesnar and I’d be surprised if he doesn’t get the job done.

CMV1: Well, we’re about to find out. There is a lot of excitement for this match…

Hartford, CT

Announcer: Sunny
Referee: Chad Patton
Commentators: Doc Hendrix and Kevin Kelly

2 Triple H vs. 7 Brock Lesnar

Doc Hendrix: Welcome back to Hartford, Connecticut, where we are gearing up for the match of the East Regional’s second round. We never thought we’d get to see this match, but we’re going to see it tonight. It’s going to be Brock Lesnar – the only man ever to hold both the UFC and WWE titles – against one of the all-time greats in professional wrestling, “The Game,” Triple H.

Kevin Kelly: Well, there’s a history between these two men that few know about. It was 2002 and conspiracy theorists will point out that a second world title was created for the WWE – that the belts previously unified were un-unified – because Triple H did not want to face Brock Lesnar. Every party involved denies that rumor, but you have to ask yourself, “If it is true, what does that mean about this match?”

Doc: We will find out in just a few minutes, but first let’s welcome our special guest commentator for this match. He’s a former LOP columnist and one of the most respected men in the wrestling media. He is Mazza and he’s got unique perspective on this match that he’d like to share…

Mazza: Evening, Gents. First things first, the second title was created because Brock straight up refused to defend against Triple H and ran away to Smackdown. Today is proof that you can run, but you can’t hide forever. Also, I would like to know why I got lumbered with the “Velocity” announce team of this tournament? I would be better off with Carlos Cabrera or Ray Rougeau than you two. Ooooh, it’s Sunny.

(Bell rings)

Sunny: Ladies and gentlemen, the following match is set for one fall. Introducing first, fighting out of Alexandria, Minnesota…BROCK…LES-NAR!!!!

Doc: This guy is a beast! How is the Game going to beat this man?

Sunny: And introducing next…from Greenwich, Connecticut…TRIPPPPPPLLLLLE H!

Kevin: Unbelievable the intensity between these two. This is going to be an absolutely amazing contest. And the two of them are coming face to face in the middle of the ring. Referee Chad Patton is set to lay down the ground rules.

Doc: I think we’ll need them…

Mazza: You’re right there, Doc. PS, you suck.

Chad Patton: I want to see a good, clean match. No funny business. Keep it clean or you’ll both be out of this tournament. Go back to your corners, I’ll signal for the bell, and you come out of your corners. Is that clear?

(Both nod in the affirmative)

Kevin: Chad Patton is being unusually aggressive tonight.

Doc: I don’t think he’s got a choice. There may not be two more intense individuals in wrestling history than these two.

Mazza: I think The Giant Gonzalez would argue that point.

Kevin: And here we go! Lesnar takes him down to the mat with ease! He spins around on his back. He’s flat out toying with Triple H…

Mazza: I’d love to toy with Steph.

Doc: The Game is being played right now. Brock is letting him back to his feet.

Kevin: But he takes him down quickly yet again. Lesnar’s mixed martial arts style gives him a distinct advantage. I don’t understand why, but he’s letting him up again…

Doc: Brock’s wearing a big grin and you can see why. He’s full of confidence.

Mazza: Everyone who has shown over-confidence against The Game has gone on to thoroughly regret their decision.

Kevin: Now they go into a lock-up in the center of the ring, but the result is no different…Lesnar is still in control. He backs Triple H into the corner and backs away.

Doc: The Game just poked him in the eye!

Mazza: I told you.

Doc: This is still professional wrestling…

Kevin: Triple H is now on the offensive. He’s locked on a front facelock and now it’s the Game that is in control. He is pounding on Brock like he’s an MMA fighter! But speaking of MMA, Lesnar escapes and catches Triple H in an armbar.

Mazza: 87, ARMBAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

Kevin: Triple H quickly fights his way to the ropes…

Doc: Lesnar needs to keep this on the mat. You don’t want to give Triple H any confidence.

Kevin: Yeah, but Triple H is taunting Lesnar. That’s over confidence and that’s not going to help him….Or will it? They are now brawling in the middle of the ring. Triple H has goaded Brock into a fist fight. That’s the Cerebral Assassin for you!

Doc: C’mon, Brock! This is not your game. Keep it on the mat!

Mazza: Hendrix, please stop with the puns.

Kevin: They have now fought their way to the outside right in front of our announce table. Oh! Triple H is stripping down our table, throwing our monitors out of our view in the process.

Mazza: You guys need anything from the refreshment stand? I feel the need to go for a walk.

Doc: I think Triple H is going for a knockout punch, here. He’s got to do something extra to beat Brock!

Kevin: Folks, we may lose you. These two gigantic men are on our announce table! At any second, we could lose our feed! The Game is going for that knockout blow. He’s hooked Lesnar’s arms and he’s going for the Pedigree!

Doc: Counter! Brock has powered out! Triple H is now on Brock’s shoulders.

Kevin: Brock jumps off the table, but not before tossing Triple H off his shoulders and spinning him face forward down onto our announce table! The table is BROKEN! Triple H is BROKEN!

Doc: An F5 through the announce table! Wow! This crowd is in stunned silence. I’m at a loss for words, myself…

Mazza: What on earth just happened here? More importantly, how will Triple H survive?

Kevin: Well, Brock is throwing him back into the ring. He’s now locking on a rear choke hold. I think this is over. Triple H is out cold…

Doc: How can this man be stopped? Tell me that Kevin Kelly…how can Brock Lesnar be stopped?

Kevin: I am beginning to wonder that myself. I honestly don’t know. And here we go…Hunter’s hand goes up once and down once.

Mazza: Come on, Game!

Doc: It’s up again and down again. The end is near for the Game…

Mazza: Wake up! WAKE UP… YES!

Kevin: No! No! No it is not over! He got his hand up, guys! He got his hand up! This is amazing! Now, he’s battling back to his feet! He throws an elbow…and another. He’s out of the hold!

Doc: He just raked him across the eyes. He’s a cheater…

Mazza: You know what, Hendrix? Someone a lot better at this gig than you once said “win if you can, lose if you must, but always cheat”.

Kevin: It’s wrestling! Now, he’s chopping Lesnar down to the mat, focusing on the knee. Brock is down on the mat. What a reversal of fortune. The Game drops his knee across his face.

Doc: He is going right back to the knee, though. That’s a version of the Indian Deathlock he just applied there. Ha! Brock escapes it easily in just seconds. Don’t even go there, Trips. And now he’s getting an ankle lock for his troubles.

Kevin: But the Game gets the ropes pretty quickly in his own right and now he’s back to his feet. He’s barely stable, but he’s on his feet. Brock runs at him. Hunter saw him just in time and backdrops him over the top rope! Lesnar is on the floor!

Doc: He doesn’t see that kind of move in the UFC does he?

Kevin: No he does not! Triple H is now on the outside, too. He picks Lesnar up and throws him into the ring steps!

Doc: C’mon, now. That’s not even fair. Triple H knows he can’t beat him in a fair fight.

Mazza: Ha! Now Lesnar is playing The Game’s game.

Kevin: If he didn’t want to be in a professional wrestling tournament, then he shouldn’t have signed up for this! The Game tosses him into the ring steps again!

Mazza: Finish him, Trips.

Kevin: They’re back in the ring. Hunter just caught Brock Lesnar with a facebuster across his knee. That’s classic Triple H. Now, he’s going for the spinebuster, Double A style!

Doc: Brock counters! He counters!

Kevin: Lesnar hoists him up and drives him hard to the mat with a running powerbomb! Ouch! Is it just me or does it seem like Brock is surprised that he’s struggling against The Game?

Doc: Well, this should be easy for Brock!

Kevin: Why!? This is Triple H we’re talking about!

Mazza: Without a doubt. Triple H is one of the greatest ever to grace this ring. This is not an octagon, it’s a squared circle.

Doc: But that’s Brock Lesnar! He’s a superior athlete in every way!

Kevin: Well, he’s not a superior professional wrestler! And he’s getting frustrated!

Doc: Frustrated or not, Brock Lesnar is about to put this match away with the F5!

Kevin: The Game counters and scores with a DDT! And there’s that fire and passion from Triple H. He lets out a primal scream! And there’s a clothesline! Another! And another! And now a spinebuster! Triple H is rolling!

Doc: C’mon Brock! Get up! Recover!

Mazza: This one is almost over, lads.

Kevin: Triple H calls for the Pedigree. He hooks his arms and BOOM! The Pedigree connects! He covers! One…two…

Doc: He kicked out! Lesnar kicked out!

Mazza: What the…

Kevin: The Game is not letting up. He wastes little time and he’s going to try for the Pedigree again. Wait! Brock Lesnar counters, gets Hunter on his shoulders, and throws him into the air…F-FIVE! He covers…One, two, and it’s going to be over…NO!!! The Game is NOT over!

Mazza: YES!

Doc: What do these guys have to do to beat each other? I think they are running out of signature moves…

Kevin: Exhausted, fatigued, and running out of offense, these two gladiators are leaning on each other trying get back to their feet. They get back to a vertical base and stare each other in the eyes. They’re now chest to chest. Brock shoves Hunter; Hunter shoves Brock at the same time. They go flying in opposite directions into opposite corners!

Doc: They’re leaning against the turnbuckles. They’ve got to be wondering what they are going to do next…

Kevin: Look at Triple H! Folks, we can see this because we’re right in front of him, but neither the referee nor Brock Lesnar seems to. Hunter is removing the pad from the top turnbuckle. He just turned back around and now he’s facing Brock. They’re eyes have once again met.

Doc: Lesnar looks like a shark that just smelled blood in the water…

Kevin: Brock is moving slowly toward him. He’s about halfway from the Game and Hunter is egging him on, urging him to come forward. The Cerebral Assassin is luring him toward that exposed buckle.

Doc: He’s cheating again! Don’t fall for it, Brock! Hey! Hey! Brock – the turnbuckle!

Mazza: Shut up, Hendrix.

Kevin: These people are going crazy! He can’t hear you!

Doc: Brock!

Kevin: Lesnar lunges forward…Triple H moves out of the way…Boom! Brock’s face just smashed right into the exposed steel! Brock is reeling…he turns around to a boot to the gut from the Game. Pedigree! Pedigree!

Doc: Kick out! Kick out, Brock!

Kevin: One…

Mazza: YES!

Kevin: Two…

Mazza: YES!

Kevin: Three!

Mazza: YES!!! Take that, Hendrix.

Kevin: Triple H has defeated Brock Lesnar! The GAME…MOVES…ON!


-----------------------------------------

Friday, January 7, 2010: East Regional Round 1

CMV1: It’s day two and we welcome you back to the studio as we get set for another day of East Regional action. Today, Macho Man, Chris Jericho, and Roddy Piper among others are vying for their spots in Sunday’s Round 2 matches. Daniel Bryan and Miz join me again...

Daniel Bryan: Today, Chris Jericho starts what should be an interesting weekend for him. I’ve pegged him as the underdog that can surprise everyone and win this region. Standing in his way first is a former Royal Rumble winner and Wrestlemania headliner in Big John Studd. I have no idea how Jericho wins, but I just feel like he will…

The Miz: Over in Philly, I think we’re in for some fun. Couldn’t any of the four competing today make it to the second round? I think it AWE-SOME that we have no clue who’s coming out of there. Piper? Valentine? Vince? Bubba Ray – in ECW country! But first let’s go back to Atlantic City and my good friend Michael Cole…

Atlantic City, NJ

Announcer: Tony Chimel
Referee: Mike Chioda
Commentators: Michael Cole and Tazz

3 Randy “Macho Man” Savage vs. 14 Ron “Farooq” Simmons

Cole called Savage the original “Mr. Wrestlemania” as the Macho Man made his way to the ring. Simmons donned his old “Nation of Domination” attire for the match and came out to the NOD music. One couldn’t tell if Macho Man was intimidated by the former WCW Champion or if he was just eagerly anticipating the start of the match, but Simmons capitalized on Savage’s skittish demeanor. He caught the whole crowd by surprise when he was able to hoist up Savage onto his shoulder and drop him hard to the mat with the Dominator. It wasn’t enough to earn Simmons the upset, but it was enough to give him firm control of the match. He used a series of powerslams and clotheslines to keep Savage from picking up the pace. Farooq eventually tried for a spinebuster, but during the attempt, Macho Man latched on a front facelock and took Simmons down to his knees. Savage kept the hold locked on until Simmons was worn down enough to release it. Macho Man was then finally able to pick up the pace, taking down Farooq with a couple of diving clotheslines and then snapping his neck across the top rope for a near fall. A couple of quick pin attempts later and Savage really had Simmons on the ropes. Totally gassed by that point, Farooq tried one last ditch attempt to regain momentum by putting Macho on the top rope for a potential superplex. Unfortunately, the gamble didn’t pay off. Savage knocked Farooq to the mat and came off the top with a diving elbow drop for the one, two, and the three. Savage, thus, defeated Simmons at 11:01.

6 Chris Jericho vs. 11 Big John Studd

What do you think the result would be if you handed one of the most agitating microphone men in the business an opportunity to rile up the crowd and his opponent prior to a match? In this particular case, Chris Jericho’s pre-match tirade led to a raucous audience and one very angry giant of a man. Studd really took it to Jericho to start the match, shrugging off any attempted offense from Y2J and feeding off the crowd to totally dominate the early minutes. With the referee’s back turned, Jericho snuck in a low blow, giving him the opportunity to go on the sustained attack. He worked over Studd’s left knee, chopping the big man down as if he were a tree. After getting Studd down to his knees, Jericho caught him with a running enziguiri that put the Hall of Famer on his back. Y2J followed with a Lionsault just as the referee came to. 1…2…No! Studd easily tossed Jericho off his chest and tried to make it back to his knees. Unfortunately for him, as soon as he reached his feet he was met with a Codebreaker from Jericho. 1…2…Again Studd kicked out! Jericho did not let up, immediately grabbing Studd’s legs and trying to turn him over for the Walls. Studd used his remaining leg strength to toss Y2J halfway across the ring! Frustrated, Jericho proceeded to lure the big man outside the ring, where he dropkicked Studd in the injured left knee, sending his face careening into the steel steps. Jericho scooted quickly back into the ring and urged the ref to start his count. 1…2…3…4…5…6…Studd started to stir…7…8…9…Studd with a hand on the bottom rope to try and pull himself back in…10. The bell rang and Jericho emerged victorious via count out at 7:57.

-------------------------------------------------

CMV1: As Daniel Bryan predicted earlier, Jericho squeaked into Sunday’s second round and will meet the Macho Man in a dream match.

Daniel Bryan: WWE Magazine called this a dream match for the ages in last year’s “Wrestlemania 26 Special”…I agree…I cannot wait for that match on Sunday.

The Miz: I don’t like Chris Jericho and I don’t know Randy Savage, but I can admit that I respect what the two of them are capable of in that ring. Sunday in Atlantic City has become a MUST SEE event thanks to Savage vs. Jericho

CMV1: For the first time this weekend, let’s now turn our attention to Philadelphia and what The Miz calls “the place where anyone can win”…


Philadelphia, PA

Announcer: Joel Gertner
Referee: Dave Hebner
Commentators: Joey Styles and Paul Heyman

4 Rowdy Roddy Piper vs. 13 Bubba Ray Dudley

The Philadelphia crowd certainly had its fair share of ECW fans, as they let Bubba Ray know early and often that he was their pick to win this match. Piper ate it up, egging on the crowd as he took early control of the match with a 3 Stooges-like poke to the eyes. Referee Dave Hebner looked confused when fans at ringside began throwing foreign objects into the ring. He went to call for a DQ, but thought twice of it when he realized he was unsure who to disqualify. Meanwhile, Piper tossed Bubba out of the ring. Paul Heyman (a ringside commentator) urged the confused Hebner over to him so that he could explain what the pro-ECW crowd was doing, giving Dudley the perfect chance to grab a pipe handed to him by a fan and blast Piper right on top of his head. The Hot Scot bled like a stuck pig, as Bubba rolled him back into the ring. 1…2…No! Piper kicked out of the pin attempt. In the middle of the ring, Piper started using boxing jabs to take control, but Dudley responded with jabs of his own. The two each connected with simultaneous jabs; each then wound up for the big shot and connected. Both men fell flat on the mat. As Hebner very nearly counted to 10 – which would’ve counted both men out of the tournament – Bubba Ray returned to his feet and set up for the Bubba Bomb. However, as he attempted the move, Piper spun around, countering and grabbing a headlock. The Rowdy One ran forward, leaped, and drove Dudley’s head onto a steel chair that had not yet been cleared from the ring and was lying near the corner. Hebner again looked confused, but Heyman gave him a thumbs up, so he counted the one, two, three giving Piper the win at 11:39.

5 Vince McMahon vs. 12 Greg “The Hammer” Valentine

Vince appeared supremely confident as he walked to the ring, but once the bell rang it seemed as if his show of intestinal fortitude was an act. Valentine wasted little time exploiting the patriarch of wrestling’s most influential family for his lack of true wrestling skill. However, as the Hammer was working over Vince’s leg to set up for the Figure Four, Gerald Briscoe ran to the ring and distracted referee Dave Hebner, allowing McMahon to give Valentine a low blow. Meanwhile, Pat Patterson snuck in from the crowd and handed Vince a pair of brass knuckles. Joey Styles about had a coronary as Vince swung his right first toward the Hammer’s thick jaw, but Valentine ducked the punch and immediately lifted McMahon in the air for an atomic drop, sending the foreign object careening to the mat. As Patterson and Briscoe hopped up on the apron to run interference, the Hammer picked up the knuckles and proceeded to blast both of Vince’s stooges in the kisser. McMahon, still nursing his sore tailbone, attempted to Pearl Harbor the former Intercontinental and Tag Team Champion, but Valentine easily thwarted the attack, connected with a knee breaker, and locked on the Figure Four leg lock. Vince immediately tapped to give the 12th seeded Hammer the spot in Round 2 at 7:19.

---------------------------------------

CMV1: Do you remember the DVD “The Greatest Wrestling Stars of the 80’s”?

Daniel Bryan: Yes I do…we’re going to get to see a rematch from one of the bouts featured on that set. Valentine vs. Piper…

The Miz: A heated rivalry when we were growing up, their feud culminated in a dog collar match. It should be interesting to see how it plays out on Sunday.

CMV1: Alright, ladies and gentlemen, that will do it for us tonight. We’ll see you tomorrow as the Road to Wrestlemania rolls on in Round 2


------------------------------------------


Thursday, January 6, 2011: East Regional Round 1

CMV1: Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to our coverage of the East Regional first round. It’s day one, the host cities are excited, and it’s time to start our quest to discover the Wrestlemania Champion. The journey starts right here and now. How it works is this…momentarily, we’ll take you to recaps of the first round matches from today and then our “East Regional Match of the Week.” The same routine will follow each morning from today through Sunday as we go from 16 superstars to just 8 in the next four days. The south regional will do the same next week, followed by the west and midwest to round out the month of January and get us to the Sports Entertainment Sixteen. I’m joined in studio by Daniel Bryan and The Miz. Gentlemen, any comments?

The Miz: The match of the week will happen today, as John Cena will face the Junkyard Dog. Wouldn’t it be nice of Cena lost today and saved us from his overhyped and outdated crap? I’ll be rooting for the Hall of Famer, as my good friend Michael Cole joins Tazz and a special guest for commentary. I can’t wait for that one…

Daniel Bryan: Many modern day fans would consider Rey Mysterio vs. John Cena a dream match. All that has to happen for that dream to become a reality is for Cena and Mysterio to overcome two inductees into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2004…

CMV1: Well, we’ll get to that match a little bit later. Let’s go to Hartford, Connecticut, where Doc Hendrix and Kevin Kelly are standing by at ringside for a family feud…

Hartford, CT

Announcer: Sunny
Referee: Chad Patton
Commentators: Doc Hendrix and Kevin Kelly

2 Triple H vs. 15 Shane McMahon

An awkward handshake took place shortly after both were introduced. Shane kept yelling that he was the “hometown” favorite and tried to make this out as a friendly exhibition between family members. Unfortunately for Shane, the Game was deadly serious about the match and wasn’t wearing a friendly face. The young McMahon, though, barely seemed to realize the demeanor of his brother in law. Shane started dancing around the ring when the bell rang, shuffling his feet and rolling his arm in a circle. Triple H simply stood his ground and watched. Like a snake waiting to uncoil, Trips patiently wait for Shane to get close. When he did, the Game unleashed a barrage of right handed shots that sent Shane reeling into the corner. Trips mounted for 10 punches and the crowd counted along as he battered his wife’s brother repeatedly. Shane fell limply to the mat and stayed there until Triple H picked him up. McMahon tried to throw a punch, but Trips blocked it, Irish-whipped him into the ropes, and caught him with a spinebuster that shook the ring. The Game took the time to pander to the crowd. Then, he picked Shane up and off of the mat, threw a crotch chop his way to the delight of the fans, and gave him the Pedigree. 1..2…3…and that was all she wrote at 10:32.

7 Brock Lesnar vs. 10 Booker T

As Brock Lesnar was being introduced, Doc Hendrix talked about how the general feeling was that Lesnar had an outside shot at winning the entire tournament. Booker T, looking to spoil a lot of people’s feelings, came out of the gate with a quick flurry of offense, but what happened next was probably the reason why there are so many people declaring Lesnar a potential winner. Brock absolutely mauled Booker T. He took him down to the mat and started bashing him with the kind of shots typical of an MMA fight. Try as he might, Book just could not escape Lesnar’s clutches. A series of suplexes – German, belly-to-belly, and vertical – gave Lesnar complete control. He then hoisted Booker onto his shoulders and decimated him with an F5. The impact of Booker’s face hitting that mat broke his nose and opened a bloody wound that covered the canvas in crimson red. Instead of going for the pin fall, Lesnar picked up Booker’s bloodied and beaten body and gave him another F5. The ref pleaded with Brock to just pin him and get it over with, but the only man to hold the WWE title and the UFC title placed Book in a triangle choke hold instead. Book quickly tapped it, earning Brock the victory at 8:12.

-------------------------------------------

CMV1: Well, it’ll be Brock Lesnar vs. Triple H in the second round on Saturday. They’ve never faced each other before. Who do you like in that match, guys?

The Miz: The experience factor is going to be huge for Triple H. He’s got the mental game down to a science and it’s not going to be easy to beat him. BUT…Brock Lesnar is too quick, too strong, too mentally tough, and too focused to lose so early in this tournament. It’ll take a serious dude to defeat him.

Daniel Bryan: I will, for once, agree with Miz. I just don’t see how Hunter overcomes that obstacle. It’s just a shame that this match is occurring so early in the bracket…Triple H is the kind of guy who deserves to be around in the round of 16 and beyond.

CMV1: I wonder if anyone can beat Lesnar? Few ever did when he was in the WWE and only two have in the UFC. The Game has his work cut out for him. At this time, let’s take you to Atlantic City, New Jersey’s Trump Towers. Michael Cole and Tazz have got the call of Mysterio vs. Slaughter followed by the East M-O-T-W…

Atlantic City, NJ

Announcer: Tony Chimel
Referee: Mike Chioda
Commentators: Michael Cole and Tazz

8 Sgt. Slaughter vs. 9 Rey Mysterio

The Sarge looked quite confused about how to combat a man so much smaller than he. Mysterio presented the Wrestlemania VII main-eventer with a unique challenge, using his quickness to aggravate him into making several key mistakes in the early going. Rey exploited Slaughter’s lack of lateral mobility, darting around the ring like a fly and leaving Sarge to look like the foolish man chasing him around the ring with a fly swatter. Eventually, Mysterio’s own hubris came into play, as he went for a Frog Splash before making sure that Sarge was sufficiently worn down. The result was Slaughter moving out of the way and having a chance to regroup. When Sarge stood back to attention, he dropped his elbow firmly into the small of Rey’s back, keeping him grounded and setting up for an eventual attempt at the Camel Clutch. He kept it basic, but seemed to enjoy being able to manhandle an opponent weighing over a hundred pounds less. It appeared to be over when Slaughter ditched the idea of working over the low back and synched in the Cobra Clutch, but Mysterio showed his wherewithal. In one beautiful motion, Rey back flipped while still in the hold, caught Sarge around the neck (breaking the hold), and used his momentum to plant him with a reverse DDT. 1…2…No! Mysterio nearly had him! He tried to keep it going with a hurricanrana that sent Sarge into 619 position, but Slaughter moved as Mysterio twirled between the ropes and again applied the Cobra Clutch. Mysterio passed out at 9:27, giving the Sarge a berth into Round 2.


Match of the Week: 1 John Cena vs. 16 Junkyard Dog

Chimel: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is the main-event of the evening. Introducing first from West Newbery, Massachusetts, he is the number one seed in the East Regional, Johhhn Cenaaaa (Cena’s music hits and he makes his way to the ring to a chorus of boos; not many cheers).

Cole (during Cena’s entrance): OK, partner, Cena facing the JYD round 1 of the east regional. Lot of people believe that Cena could lose right here in the first match-up. What does he have to do to defeat JYD?

Tazz: Well, Cole, the main thing you gotta worry about if you’re John Cena is being ova confident in yourself. JYD is not a guy he’s faced before, so he’s gonna have to be on his toes. But you know what, I think Cena is gonna be fine. We ain’t talkin’ about a guy who is completely unfamiliah with the Dog. Cena is a long-time fan of the dub dub ya E and he grew up watchin him.

Chimel: And from Charlotte, North Carolina, he is a 2004 inductee into the WWE of Hall of Fame, the JunK Yard Dogggggg (JYD makes his entrance to a massive applause from the attending fans)

Cole: At this time we’d like to welcome our guest commentator for our match of the Atlantic City side of the east regional. He is none other than Super Chrisss, the famous writer of the dorky internet wrestling site, Lords of Pain. I could not be less thrilled to have you with us…

Super Chrisss: Shut up, Michael. You should be honored to have me on board. 99% of our audience agrees that SOMEBODY has to carry your dumb ass, so it might as well be me.

Cole: You shouldn’t even be here. What business do you have as a member of our classic announce team?

Super Chrisss: Cole, Cole, Cole. The question is - what are YOU doing here? You claim to be the voice of the WWE, but regardless if you're talking down Josh Mathews on NXT or blowing smoke up The Miz's ass, you will never, ever replace Good Ol' J.R. And that's a fact, loser.

Tazz: Hey, Ah, guys…the match is about to start…

(ding ding ding)

Cole (pause): So there’s the first lock up of the match-up, Cena and JYD struggling to gain control, but Cena backs him into the corner. JYD is not going to be able to match power with Cena, is he Tazz?

Tazz: No I don’t think so. JYD is gonna have a hard time in this one. He and Cena have gotta lot of the same strengths. Cena just happens to do ‘em better.

Chrisss: I wouldn't count out JYD just yet. Cena may have the power advantage, but honestly, he's over-rated.

Cole: There’s JYD with that signature bark.

Tazz: Ha! Look at Cena, coming right back with a “You can’t see me.” Ha ha. I love that!

(The crowd started a “Cena Sucks” chant)

Chrisss: Yes, Cena sucks. But so do you, Michael.

Cole: There’s the second lock-up. JYD whips Cena into the ropes. Cena comes off with a jumping shoulder tackle. JYD gets back to his feet, but there’s another shoulder tackle. And again. Same result. VINTAGE Cena right there.

Tazz (as Cena connects with a fisherman suplex): Yeah, that could signal the beginning of the end for the Hall of Famer, Cole.

Cole: Indeed it could…and there’s the Throwback. Is he gonna go for the cover!? No, he doesn’t go for the cover. Instead, he signals for the Attitude Adjustment. Attitude Adjustment, Tazz!!

Tazz: I thought it was the FU?

Chrisss: I thought it was the F5?

Cole: Counter! Counter! JYD scoops Cena up…OH! Shoulder breaker from the Junkyard Dog!

(The crowd again chants “Cena Sucks”…then JYD howls into the air sending the crowd into a mild frenzy)

Cole: Headbutt! Another Headbutt! JYD has taken complete control of this match-up.

Tazz: I think the crowd could play a big role for JYD movin’ forward. Nice scoop slam there from the Dog. Oh, ha ha! There’s that little dance. JYD jiving in the ring, Cole!

Cole: I believe that is the signature dance that precedes the Thump. VINTAGE J-Y-D!

Tazz (as JYD scoops Cena into bodyslam position): Here comes that patented powerslam. Wait! No!

Cole: Cena slides off the back of JYD and scores with a spinning back suplex!

Tazz: Here it comes, Cole. It’s Five Knuckle Shuffle time!

Chrisss: Oh, goody. "Vintage Cena". Stole your line, Cole!

(The crowd says “You can’t see me” as Cena motions his hand in front of his face)

Cole: Wait a minute! Look at JYD quickly go from his back to his hands and knees!

Tazz: He’s on all fours! Cena’s still lookin’ down at him.

Cole: Headbutt! Another headbutt! Arf, arf, arf! The dog – is in – the house!

Tazz: I think Cena’s cut on the top part of his nose from that headbutt there...

Cole: Cena staggers backward toward the ropes, stunned from the sudden onslaught. JYD back to his feet. He scoops him up. THUMP! THUMP! He hits the powerslam! That ought to do it! One…Two…NO!

Tazz: Cena kicked out! He kicked out!

Cole: Cena’s got a look of determination on his face. He gets to his feet and launches himself at JYD, dropping him to the mat with a shoulder block. And another! And another! Cena – is – rolling…

Tazz: Yea, this ain’t good for JYD…

Cole: There’s a back suplex. Got it!

Tazz: And there’s the Five Knuckle Shuffle! You can’t see me! Second time is the charm…

Chrisss: What a match!

Cole: Here we go. The Attitude Adjustment. He’s signaling for it. He hoists him up. He nailed it! Referee Mike Chioda counts as the cover is made. Is this it?

(One…two…)

Cole: NO! NO! JYD kicked out of the ATT-ITUDE AD-JUSTMENT!

Chrisss: Don't you mean the F5?

Tazz: What a match!

Cole: JYD narrowly avoids the pinfall. This is definitely living up to the hype. What is Cena going to do? Can he put JYD away? Are we going to have a HUGE upset here in round one?! Oh boy!

Tazz: No way, Cole, look at Cena’s face. He’s mad! He’s gonna try it again…

Cole: Does JYD have anything left? Cena lifts him up off the ground and again onto his shoulders. He tosses him up. Another Attitude Adjustment.

(One…Two…Three) (Ding ding ding)

Chimel: Here is your winner…Johhhhn Ceennaaa…

Tazz: Wow. Wicked awesome. A rocket buster of a match, Cole

Cole: JYD gave it everything that he had, but the #1 seeded Cena was too much. He’s done the longest running weekly episodic television show, otherwise known as Monday Night Raw, proud. Cena moves on…

Chrisss: That's right, don't bother thanking me for coming out to call this match with you guys. Cole, I knew you were an asshole, but I expected more from you, Tazz…well, with that being said, that’s it for our day one coverage of the Road to Wrestlemania. For all of us from Doctor’s Orders, we’ll see you tomorrow…