After RAW ended: DX and Dusty Rhodes

Thanks to Jon Krakower for sending in the following:

I was at the Raw show tonight, and after the show went off the air, with DX, Cena and Dusty Rhodes all lying in the ring.... Legacy and Orton are walking up the ramp as Triple H gets on the mic and says "Well that didn't go as planned... Why don't you guys come back down here and see if you can do it again.... Legacy starts to walk back up the ramp, and were chased by DX and Cena..(Dusty Rhodes is still shaking off the RKO).

A ref comes out, and now we have a 6 man tag match..... Pretty back and forth, with HBK taking a lot of the punishment...At one point, Cody Rhodes has HBK down, and then knocks Cena and Triple H off the apron.... Dusty Rhodes gets up on the apron, and begs HBK to tag him in...He gets the tag, then gives Cody the elbow, and continues to do the same to Legacy... We then see Orton as the last man standing, surronded by DX, Cena and Dusty Rhodes.... Rhodes hits the elbow, HBK with Sweet Chin Music, Triple H with the pedigree and the match ends with Orton tapping out to the STF.

After the match, HBK gets on the mic and says, "Ya know Cena, every time we come out here to save you, we forget to do our pre match stuff" As Triple H was getting ready to do his thing, HBK, Cena and Rhodes were having a very funny moment.... Finally Triple H gets to do the "Are You Ready...", then HBK gets ready to do his thing, but then decides to let Dusty Rhodes say "If you're not down with that..." Then all 4 men do the crotch chop, pyro and all. HBK and Triple H then entertain, and Hi-Five the fans in the front row..... I was one of them.... It was all pretty cool, especially after it seemed like we wouldn't see much action for a main event.... Although not televised, it made the night amazing.

TNA to change their monthly PPV format?

TNA President Dixie Carter was a guest on the Live Audio Wrestling Internet radio show on Sunday night. Host John Pollock discussed TNA's current PPV formula of one event per month, Carter says she is not a fan of the monthly PPV format and she would like to see the formula shaken up.

"I'm not a big fan of monthly PPVs, quite honestly, but you have contracts that keep you held in and bound at times," Carter said. "We're definitely talking about trying to shake things up and do things differently in the future."

Despite the fact that TNA is a privately held company and their actual PPV buyrate figures are never officially released, the data that does get out indicates that TNA has never come close to breaking 100,000 buys for an event and change is needed.

Carter repeated her recent claims that changes are coming to TNA and that she would be addressing many of the elements of the product that have become stagnant or too formula.

"I work very, very closely [with the creative team]. I'm not going to profess to be a wrestling writer. I am good at challenging people. It's not just ratings, but other things as well," Carter said. "We've made a lot of changes internally."

WWE Champion Randy Orton vs. Cody Rhodes ended in a no contest
Divas Champion Mickie James def. Beth Phoenix
United States Champion Kofi Kingston def. The Miz, Jack Swagger and Carlito
Mark Henry def. Unified WWE Tag Team Champion Big Show by disqualification
Hornswoggle def. Chavo Guerrero in a Bull Rope Match
Unified WWE Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho def. MVP
Beth Phoenix def. Kelly Kelly, Gail Kim, Rosa Mendes, Jillian and Alicia Fox in an “American Dream” Six-Diva Battle Royal

DETROIT – Always a welcome sight to the WWE Universe, special guest host and WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes, made his stint on Raw a memorable one with three title matches as well as a contest he made famous: A Bull Rope Match. However, while "The American Dream" may have started out being cheered by the fans in attendance, they quickly turned on the WWE Legend when he joined The Legacy in a brutal attack on both John Cena and D-Generation X. But in a bit of poetic justice, the tables were turned once again, as Rhodes fell victim to a brutal RKO, courtesy of WWE Champion Randy Orton.

WWE Champion Randy Orton vs. Cody Rhodes ended in a no contest when The Legacy attacked guest referee John Cena, drawing out D-Generation X (PHOTOS | WATCH)
Before Raw’s main event between WWE Champion Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes could begin, special guest host Dusty Rhodes reminded John Cena and the WWE Universe that there’s nothing he wouldn’t do for his son. Following his declaration, both Orton and Cody Rhodes turned on The Viper’s WWE Breaking Point opponent. The third member of Legacy then joined his associates in attacking Cena.

The treacherous act got the attention of D-Generation X, however, who rushed to the ring in spite of the three-on-two odds. After Dusty Rhodes clobbered Triple H with his boot, the multi-generational Superstars got the best of DX. But as Legacy stood proud over Cena, The Game and HBK, yet another double-cross occurred, with Orton hitting Hall of Famer Rhodes with a lightning-quick RKO. Though Cody Rhodes was initially angry about The Viper’s attack on his father, he reluctantly fell in line.

D-Generation X watched “The Rise & Fall of WCW” with Dusty Rhodes, but were interrupted by a new Shockmaster (WATCH | MORE DX)
Throughout the night, Raw’s special guest host Dusty Rhodes was joined in his office by D-Generation X. Together, the three watched selected clips from the new DVD, “The Rise & Fall of WCW” (order it now on WWE Shop). Though the DVD is chock-full of fantastic moments, there’s one in particular that Triple H was missing: The coming of The Shockmaster. After explaining the moment to Rhodes and Shawn Michaels, the three were joined by an all-new Shockmaster, who revealed himself to be none other than Santino Marella.

Divas Champion Mickie James def. Beth Phoenix (PHOTOS | WATCH)
Earlier in the night, Beth Phoenix defeated five other sexy, smart and powerful Divas to earn a title opportunity for the Divas Championship. With little time to rest or prepare for the match, The Glamazon faced Divas Champion Mickie James on the very same night. Participating in her second match of the night may well have taken its toll on Beth, who despite her impressive physical abilities, was unable to defeat the fan-favorite Mickie.

United States Champion Kofi Kingston def. The Miz, Jack Swagger and Carlito (PHOTOS | WATCH)
In recent weeks, The Miz has made bold claims about his abilities and how he should be the one wearing the United States Championship around his waist. On Raw, special guest host Dusty Rhodes gave Miz as well as Carlito and Jack Swagger a chance to prove themselves, when he set a Fatal Four Way Match in which Kofi Kingston would defend the title. Despite an impressive showing from the three challengers, it was The Jamaican Craze who won the day, pinning Carlito to retain the United States Championship.

Mark Henry def. Unified WWE Tag Team Champion Big Show by disqualification (PHOTOS | WATCH)
Though they’ll be facing one another at WWE Breaking Point as part of the Unified WWE Tag Team Match, Raw saw Mark Henry square off against Unified WWE Tag Team Champion Big Show one-on-one. Though The World’s Largest Athlete’s tag team partner, Chris Jericho, was able to send a clear message to their nemeses by defeating MVP, Big Show made his point by smashing his opponent’s head into an exposed turnbuckle. Though the act was a punishing one, it also resulted in The World’s Largest Athlete’s disqualification, giving Henry the win.

Hornswoggle def. Chavo Guerrero in a Bull Rope Match (PHOTOS | WATCH)
Once again, Chavo Guerrero was forced to compete against Hornswoggle on Monday Night Raw. This time, however, their contest would be one that Dusty Rhodes made famous: A Bull Rope Match. While ‘Swoggle came to the ring dressed for success as a rope wielding cowboy, Guerrero was forced to either wear a cow costume including oversized head, or forfeit the match.

As both Superstars struggled to attain victory by tying up their opponent, the self-proclaimed “Mexican warrior” grew frustrated with his outfit, removing the cow head and going after Hornswoggle. Luckily, another Superstar rushed to the leprechaun’s aid – the high-flying Evan Bourne helped distract Guerrero, insuring ‘Swoggle’s victory. To add insult to injury, the mischievous Hornswoggle climbed to the top rope, where Bourne placed the cow head on the leprechaun, who then landed a Tadpole Splash on his opponent.

Unified WWE Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho def. MVP (PHOTOS | WATCH)
After being defeated by MVP & Mark Henry during a tag team match on the previous Raw, Unified WWE Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho was eager to get payback on The Ballin’ Superstar. The nefarious Superstar pulled out all the stops during their match, pinning MVP for the win and sending a clear message to Porter & Henry, who will challenge Jericho & Big Show for the Unified WWE Tag Team Championships at WWE Breaking Point.

Beth Phoenix def. Kelly Kelly, Gail Kim, Rosa Mendes, Jillian and Alicia Fox in an “American Dream” Six-Diva Battle Royal, earning a Divas Title match (PHOTOS | WATCH)
As decreed by special guest host Dusty Rhodes, not only would there be a United States Title Match on Raw, but Mickie James would also defend her Divas Championship. To determine which of WWE’s sexy, smart and powerful Divas would have the title opportunity, an “American Dream Six” Diva-Battle Royal was held. Making use of her amazing strength and power, Beth Phoenix bulldozed the competition, becoming the last Diva standing and earning the right to face Divas Champion Mickie James later in the show.

Raw’s special guest host, WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes, announced a WWE Title Match between champion Randy Orton and "The American Dream’s" son, Cody Rhodes (PHOTOS)
Before Raw’s special guest host, WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes, even took to the ring, the WWE Universe knew they were in for a special night. Announced were both a Fatal Four Way for the United States Title in which champion Kofi Kingston would defend against The Miz, Jack Swagger and Carlito, as well as a colossal contest pitting The World’s Strongest Man, Mark Henry against The World’s Largest Athlete, Big Show.

Once the dancing and gyrating WWE Legend made his way to the ring and quieted down the WWE Universe in attendance, Rhodes announced that though he recognizes that his son, Cody, is arrogant, the second-generation ring warrior is well on his way to becoming a star. To prove his point, "The American Dream" set a WWE Championship Match as the night’s main event, in which his son will challenge his mentor Randy Orton for one of WWE’s most coveted titles.

To make the contest even more interesting, the Hall of Famer announced that he would be in his son’s corner as the No. 1 contender to the WWE Title, John Cena, acted as guest referee. This shocking decision lured out not only The Viper, but also Cody Rhodes, who stood side-by-side with his father in defiance of the leader of The Legacy.

Monday Night Raw 31.08.09

John Morrison & Matt Hardy def. The Hart Dynasty
R-Truth vs. Drew McIntyre (No contest)
Melina def. Layla
Intercontinental Champion Rey Mysterio def. Kane (disqualification) (Non-title)
Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show def. Cryme Tyme
World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk def. Jeff Hardy (Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship) (Hardy forced to leave WWE)

PHOENIX – With a startling new pay-per-view looming on the horizon, one legendary Superstar was forced to leave the squared circle while another was thrust into the realm of darkness.

World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk def. Jeff Hardy (Steel Cage Match for the World Heavyweight Championship) (VIDEO | PHOTOS)
Following his SummerSlam triumph, a gloating CM Punk returned to SmackDown as the "only Straightedge Champion in WWE History." When The Charismatic Enigma interrupted his celebration, promising to end Punk’s reign in their steel cage rematch, Punk proposed the loser be thrown out of WWE. As the shocked WWE Universe stood witness, Hardy accepted the huge gamble. SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long arrived to set the stipulation in stone. He then dropped a bombshell, stating that at the brand new pay-per-view WWE Breaking Point, where every main event will be a submission match, the winner of the steel cage clash would face Undertaker for the World Heavyweight Championship. (VIDEO | PHOTOS)

Later that night, after years of incredible feats of reckless abandon, fate finally caught up with Jeff Hardy in a moment of tragic irony. After blocking the high-flying specialist’s climb to victory, the World Heavyweight Champion superplexed him from high atop of the cage. Hardy battled back heroically, trying to prevent his adversary from getting over the cage with every fiber of his being. But a thumb to the eye by Punk sealed his fate, allowing The Straightedge Superstar to retain his title while simultaneously vanquishing the amazing Jeff Hardy from the WWE ring. After Hardy delivered a heartfelt goodbye to the WWE Universe (Video), the ruthless Punk added insult to injury, attacking the departing Superstar from behind with the World title. Take a look back at the amazing career of Jeff Hardy

As a result of the SmackDown main event, World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk will face the returning Undertaker at WWE Breaking Point. (Match preview)

Intercontinental Champion Rey Mysterio def. Kane (disqualification) (Non-title)  (VIDEO | PHOTOS)
The Big Red Monster drew a disqualification after ignoring the official’s warnings about viciously smashing Mysterio into the ringpost. Moments later, The Great Khali emerged, attempting The Punjabi Plunge. Kane escaped over the top rope, only to meet a cane-wielding Ranjin Singh. The Punjabi Playboy followed suit, smashing the wooden weapon into his monstrous adversary all the way up the ramp. As the smoke cleared, Dolph Ziggler attacked the masked Superstar from out of nowhere.

Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show def. Cryme Tyme (VIDEO | PHOTOS)
Though originally a singles match between Shad and Jericho, interference by The World’s Largest Athlete quickly changed the tide. After bedlam broke loose, Teddy Long changed the match into a SummerSlam tag team rematch. In its climax, when it looked as if Shad might be closing the door on the first-ever Undisputed Champion, Big Show tagged himself in, clobbering the unsuspecting opponent with the knockout punch to deliver the win for the champions.

John Morrison & Matt Hardy def. The Hart Dynasty  (VIDEO | PHOTOS)
Shortly after the Matt Hardy took Tyson Kidd out of the equation, “The Guru of Greatness” hit the Starship Pain, pinning David Hart Smith to the delight of the WWE Universe.

Melina def. Layla (VIDEO | PHOTOS)
Although Melina was supposed to get an opportunity at Women’s Champion Michelle McCool’s title, the crutch-carrying champion claimed that the “brutal” attack by her challenger one week earlier prevented her from competing. As a result, Michelle introduced Layla as her substitute. Despite suffering an injured left leg during the match, Melina overcame her prey with unbridled, primal force. After the bell, Melina once again attacked Michelle, making it clear that she wants her title back.

R-Truth vs. Drew McIntyre (No contest) (VIDEO | PHOTOS)
Scottish competitor Drew McIntyre arrived in Phoenix looking to make a name for himself. And he quickly made his mark at the expense of R-Truth, attacking the rapping Superstar while he was getting in the ring. After hitting Truth with a devastating double-arm DDT, McIntyre declared to the WWE Universe that the party is over.

Josh Mathews interviews Mike Knox (PHOTOS)
Mike Knox explained his recent acts of brutality on Finlay with an intricate explanation of the human brain and a smug “why not?” But the anatomy lesson was cut short when The Belfast Brawler attacked Knox with the shillelagh.

Friday Night Smackdown 28.08.09

Dave Penzer introduces Mike Tenay, Taz and So Cal Val. There's a contingent of Spike TV who look like they're going to film.

Xplosion/Dark Matches:

Homicide b. Kiyoshi w/Sheik Abdul Bashir. Homicide debuted new ring gear as the top is a fake bulletproof vest with airbrushed stuff on it. Homicide picked up the win after hitting the Ace Crusher.

Sheik Abdul Bashir b. Shark Boy

TNA Impact (Airing Next Week, 8/27 on Spike TV):

Prior to the intro, Daniels joins Mike Tenay and Taz on commentary. It is announced tonight will be the start of a Knockouts Tag Team Tournament.

The Impact intro plays and the pyros go off. Referee Earl Hebner politely told our correspondent, Tim Capture, not to look directly into the pyro.

TNA X Division Champion Samoa Joe vs. Suicide in a non-title match is ruled a non contest when Pope D'Angelo Dinero comes out and starts brawling with Suicide then Joe. Daniels comes off commentary to get in the melee. It is ruled that Joe will team with Pop to take on Suicide & Daniels later tonight.

World Elite comes out for a promo. Eric Young says Sheik Abdul Bashir wants to talk. Bashir tries to speak but a loud USA chant interrupts him. Bashir talks propaganda about the Iraq war and George W. Bush. I'm told he gets a lot of heat live but it may not translate well on TV. Young gets back on the mic and says he wants to talk about Hernandez. Hernandez's music plays and he comes to the ring. Hernandez and Young go back and forth with smack talk. Young says he respects Hernandez for knowing who he is and being like World Elite, guys who will never be respected in America. Young tells Hernandez he needs him to join World Elite. Hernandez says hell no puta, these people here are my familia to end the segment.

Awesome Kong & Raisha Saeed b. Traci Brooks & Sharmell when Saeed gets the pin after tagging herself in after a Kong splash. Kong gets mad about Saeed tagging herself in.

Jesse Neal b. Rhino. Rhino was originally ruled the winner after a spinebuster but the referee reversed the decision when Rhino hit Gore on Jesse after the bout. Rhino beats down Jesse more when Brother Devon runs out and makes the save.

Abyss b. The Motor City Machineguns w/Dr. Stevie. It looks like Stevie "paid" the Guns to take the match. Stevie tries to distract Abyss but he catches Chris Sabin on a springboard and turns it into the Black Hole Slam for the win. Abyss gets a chair and comes back but Kevin Nash comes out before he can use it. Stevie is mad and pushes Alex Shelley and Sabin. They beat him up and leave. Nash gets on the mic and says if Richards has $50,000 for Abyss' head then he's in because Abyss already stuck his nose in his business.

Hamada b. Daffney in a no-disqualification bout in her debut match. Hamada moonsaulted off the top rope onto Daffney through a table on the outside then got the win with a Juvi Driver.

Suicide & Daniels b. Pope D'Angelo Dinero & TNA X Division Champion Samoa Joe win Suicide pins Pope after a slingshot Oklahoma Roll.

Sting, Hernandez & AJ Styles b. Matt Morgan, Scott Steiner & Booker T after AJ gets the pin after a springboard cross-body. Morgan got knocked into a chair Steiner was holding before that, leading the the cross-body. Morgan argued with Steiner and Booker afterwards and ended up punching both of them out.

TNA Impact 27.08.09

More details on The Rock hosting RAW

Credit: PWTorch.com

As previously reported, WWE has reached out to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson about hosting a future episode of RAW. To update, the ball is still in the former champ’s court, but insiders say they would be surprised if he agreed to do the show.

Apparently there are still some hard feelings over the way WWE let his contract expire without telling him, which is why some feel Johnson often speaks good of the wrestling industry in interviews, but rarely mentions WWE by name. Furthermore, he’s been badmouthed repeatedly within the company by some of his detractors whenever he’s made appearances, such as at the Hall Of Fame ceremony.

However, it’s not all bad news for Rock fans — One source says the heat between WWE and Johnson is over exaggerated and is still under the impression that we should “never say never” about the possibility.

Update on Jeff Jarrett returning to TV

TNA founder Jeff Jarrett is expected to be back on television "sooner rather than later," according to TNA president Dixie Carter. Jarrett was sent home prior to the Victory Road PPV after it became public knowledge that Kurt Angle's ex-wife and former TNA Knockout Karen Angle was living with him.

In an interview with Kevin Eck of the Baltimore Sun, Carter said she's not exactly sure at what point Jarrett will be brought back, however she said said she's had "more input as of late" in the creative direction of TNA. "I don't pretend to be a wrestling booker," she said, "but I do know when we’re having success, because a lot of other parts of the business are impacted by that, as well as our relationship with the network."

Although Jarrett has not been on television since he was sent home, Carter said he's still working for TNA behind the scenes. "Jeff's been working on a lot of different things for the company," she said. "He's been working with me on developing new programming in kind of a bigger capacity in some ways, but that's been his focus as of late."