WWE Night Of Champions 2012 » Matches » Kofi Kingston & R-Truth vs Kane & Daniel Bryan (Tag Team Championship)

Thanks to an unforeseen turn of events on Raw, the strange-but-true duo of Kane & Daniel Bryan has supplanted The Prime Time Players as No. 1 contenders to WWE Tag Team Champions Kofi Kingston & R-Truth. WWE’s most explosive “odd couple” will test out their tenuous pairing against the reigning champions this Sunday at Night of Champions. Kane and Bryan scored the all-important opportunity by overcoming Titus O’Neil & Darren Young on Raw Monday night. Prior to the contest, Raw General Manager AJ Lee had announced that The Prime Time Players, who were awarded No. 1 contender status days earlier on SmackDown (WATCH), still had one team to beat before they could move on to the champions. Unfortunately for the swaggering Players, the remaining obstacle was the unlikely but effective tandem of The Big Red Monster and WWE’s premier submission specialist. Originally conceptualized by Dr. Shelby, the team of Kane and Bryan showed barely a glimpse of continuity in their win over O'Neil & Young. In fact, the winning pinfall came after Kane — upset that Bryan had tagged himself in — Chokeslammed Bryan onto Young. (PHOTOS) Unthinkable as it may seem, the former nemeses will now have to rely on each other if they plan to leave Boston with championship gold this Sunday. Will the unusual team prove to be the toughest challenge yet to Kingston and Truth’s championship reign, which is now in its fifth month? On one hand, the uneasy alliance seems like a perfect recipe for success. Former World Champions Kane and Bryan are considered two of WWE’s best singles competitors, and history strongly suggests that many singles competitors have transitioned successfully into WWE’s tag team division. Yet, there is no denying that Kane and Bryan still appear less-than-comfortable — and more-than-combustible — working as a unit. Though their shared experience in an anger management course brought the two Superstars closer together than ever before, their RAWActive “Hug It Out” Match on the Sept. 3 Raw did not end cordially. With the WWE Tag Team Titles hanging in the balance, can Kane and Bryan put their differences aside, or is this pairing simply too flammable to succeed? Even if Kane and Bryan are able to get on the same page, their team may still be fatally hindered by each Superstar’s individual hostility. Dr. Shelby’s efforts to curb their anger problems have shown signs of moderate progress, but the WWE Universe would be hard-pressed to describe either Kane or Bryan as “rage-free.” (In fact, Bryan’s anger toward the “Yes!”-chanting crowd in Milwaukee, Wis., on Raw three weeks ago caused him to lose his temper and lose via count-out to R-Truth.) That could spell trouble for the challengers, as standing across the ring from them this Sunday will be the well-oiled machine known as the WWE Tag Team Champions. Kofi Kingston & R-Truth have stood atop WWE’s crowded tag team division for nearly half a year, and over the course of their reign, they’ve turned back one team after another. Cohesive and fun-loving, Kingston and Truth are polar opposites of Kane and Bryan, and there seems to be little reason to think they will change their strategy at Night of Champions. Who will leave Night of Champions with the WWE Tag Team Titles? Will Truth & Kingston add yet another high-profile victory to their already long list of beaten challengers? Or will Kane and Bryan shock the WWE Universe — and maybe even each other — by forging a successful unit? Find out this Sunday at Night of Champions.

WWE Summer Slam 2012 Results : New US Champion & More.

- The 2012 WWE SummerSlam pre-show kicks off with Matt Striker and Scott Stanford at ringside. They plug tonight’s pre-show match as fans continue to pile into the Staples Center in Los Angeles. More hype for tonight’s matches. We go to a video for the WWE Title match.

- Josh Mathews is backstage with Big Show. Show cuts him off and says tonight isn’t a Triple Threat. The only threat in the match is him. Show says he’s a living, breathing, angry giant – not some made up Hollywood super hero. Show says he’s a threat to any living man today. Show says he will crush John Cena and obliterate CM Punk, then become the new WWE Champion.

WWE United States Title Match: Antonio Cesaro vs. Santino Marella

We go to the ring and out first comes Antonio Cesaro with Aksana. Aksana takes the mic and cuts a promo before the match. She has Antonio say “great” in five different languages. Cesaro says he personifies greatness and they kiss. Out next comes the WWE United States Champion Santino Marella.

The match starts off winth some back and forth. Cesaro takes Santino to the corner and beats him down. Santino dodges a splash in the corner and pulls out the Cobra early. Cesaro hits him from behind and stop the Cobra from coming out. Cesaro goes back to work on Santino and beats him with headbutts. 2 count for Cesaro.

More offense by Cesaro and another 2 count. Cesaro keeps a headlock applied. The Cobra was down on the floor but a crew member has put it on the apron. Santino crawls for it but Cesaro pulls him back. Santino kicks off him and tries for it again but Cesaro hits a big gutwrench slam. Cesaro grabs the Cobra and rips it to shreds. Santino flips out and unloads on Cesaro. Santino misses the headbutt. Cesaro goes for his finisher but it’s countered. Santino pulls out a back-up Cobra. Aksana tries to distract him and it works. Cesaro with the front piledriver for the win and the title.

Winner and New WWE United States Champion: Antonio Cesaro

- Triple H is backstage getting ready. Referee Scott Armstrong is in there with him. Triple H says this is the biggest match he will ever referee. Triple H says this is bigger than him, it’s about WWE – Scott’s family and everything. Triple H says referee’s discretion means they can bend the rules, hell even break them. Triple H says this match won’t end in a count out or DQ. He says someone wins by making the other tap out or getting the pin. Armstrong nods that he understands. Triple H promises him this is going to be a fight to the finish. Triple H tells Scott to let them fight.

- The announcers hype Lesnar vs. Triple H some more as fans continue to enter the arena. Striker and Stanford hype the other matches for SummerSlam.

- The 2012 WWE SummerSlam pay-per-view kicks off with a look back at 25 years of SummerSlam. We get a look at the Brock Lesnar vs. Triple H match.

- We’re live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles as the pyro goes off. Michael Cole welcomes us to SummerSlam. He’s joined by Jerry Lawler on commentary.

Dolph Ziggler vs. Chris Jericho

We go to the ring for tonight’s opening match. Vickie Guerrero comes out first and introduces Dolph Ziggler. We get a look back at Ziggler winning his Money in the Bank briefcase. The lights go out and Chris Jericho makes his way down next.

Jericho has his ribs taped up. Ziggler tries to stall to start the match but Jericho chases him around the ring and back in. Jericho with offense now. Jericho works Ziggler over and plays to the crowd. Jericho takes him to the corner and comes out with a right hand. Ziggler plays leap frog and goes down with a big chop. Jericho keeps control until Ziggler blocks a suplex and drops Jericho’s ribs over his knees. Ziggler with a pin attempt and more offense in the corner as the crowd chants for Jericho.

Jericho fights back and sends Ziggler over the top rope. Jericho goes for a crossbody from the corner but misses it on Ziggler on the apron and lands out on the floor. Ziggler throws Jericho into the apron and brings him back in the ring for a 2 count. Ziggler with a splash in the corner and another 2 count as Vickie yells at the referee. Ziggler shows off some more and drops Jericho with a neckbreaker after talking trash in his face. Ziggler poses and pins Jericho for a 2 count. Jericho fights with chops and now they trade shots. Jericho rolls Ziggler up for 2. Ziggler comes right back and clotheslines him.

More back and forth. Jericho with an enziguri kick. Ziggler goes for the sleeper hold and locks it in now. Ziggler ends up on top and Jericho chops him some more. Jericho with a bunch of right hands on top followed by a big hurricanrana. Jericho crawls over and covers Ziggler for 2. Ziggler drops Jericho now and covers him. They trade shots and get back to their feet. Jericho with a running bulldog. Jericho goes for the Lionsault but Ziggler gets his knees up. Ziggler hits Zig Zag but Jericho kicks out at 2.

Jericho gets up and hits the Codebreaker but it causes Ziggler to roll to the floor. The referee begins counting as Jericho brings Ziggler back in. Vickie grabs Jericho’s leg as he re-enters the ring. Ziggler takes advantage and rolls Jericho up for a 2 count as Vickie screams at ringside. Jericho throws Ziggler shoulder first into the corner. Jericho locks in the Walls of Jericho now. Ziggler taps to end it.

Winner: Chris Jericho

- More hype for Lesnar vs. Triple H. Matt Striker is backstage with Paul Heyman and Brock Lesnar. Heyman talks about Triple H talking to Scott Armstrong earlier about tonight’s match. Heyman says Lesnar will finish Triple H tonight and break WWE’s spirit. Lesnar grabs the mic and says this is a fight Triple H can’t win. If you’re not down with that, Heyman has two words for you: tap out.

Kane vs. Daniel Bryan

We go to the ring and out comes Daniel Bryan first. Out next is Kane.

Kane goes after Bryan and gets kicked a few times. Kane catches the third kick and throws him to the mat. They trade shots now but Kane catches him in a big scoop slam. Kane with a dropkick to the face and a 2 count. Kane works Bryan over in the corner now. Bryan tries to counter but gets dropped with a big boot for a 2 count. Bryan fights back with kicks and takes Kane to the corner. It’s not enough as Kane grabs Bryan and tosses him out of the ring.

They fight out on the floor now and Kane makes it back in first. Bryan climbs to the top and dropkicks Kane for a 1 count. Bryan with more kicks. He misses one and Kane runs him over with a big clothesline. Kane with a big splash in the corner and a sideslam for 2. Kane goes to the top now and takes Bryan down with a big right hand. Kane goes for the chokeslam but Bryan slides out and goes to the apron. He drops Kane over the top and comes back in only to get dropped by a Kane right hand. Bryan hits a big shot to Kane’s face and it upsets him. Kane beats Bryan down in the corner as the referee threatens him with a disqualification. Kane has snapped. Bryan trips him into the turnbuckle and kicks him in the face. Bryan goes for the No Lock but Kane struggles. Bryan can’t get it locked but kicks Kane in the face.

Bryan leaps from the top with a headbutt but Kane catches him with a big chokeslam. Kane goes for the Tombstone Piledriver but Bryan counters and rolls him up for the win.

Winner: Daniel Bryan

- After the match, Kane is shown backstage going on a rampage. Josh Mathews approaches him fr comment. Kane grabs him and asks where is “he.” Matthews says “he” already left and gets thrown away. Kane continues tearing stuff up as he walks through backstage.

WWE Intercontinental Title Match: Rey Mysterio vs. The Miz

We go to the ring and out comes Rey Mysterio to a big pop. Rey is wearing Batman inspired gear tonight. Out next comes WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz.

The bell rings and they lock up. Miz drops Mysterio first. Rey takes control for a minute and we get an early pin attempt. Miz regroups on the floor before coming back in and stomps away. Rey with a head scissors takedown but he runs right into an elbow from Miz. Rey ducks a clothesline but gets kicked in the gut. Miz tosses Rey under the bottom rope but he lands out on his feet on the floor. Miz comes out but Rey runs in. Miz tries to come in but Rey dropkicks him back to the floor.

Miz counters on the floor and drops Rey on the barrier. Miz brings it back in the ring and covers for 1. Miz with a knee to the back and rake to the face. More back and forth action. Miz gets Rey on his shoulders for a big backbreaker and a 2 count. Miz continues with the offense and talks some trash. Miz mounts Rey with right hands and then kicks him in the face for another pin attempt. Miz with a headlock now. Rey tries to fight back but Miz drops him for another 2 count. Miz poses for the crowd and most of them boo him. Miz charges in the corner and nails the clothesline but plays to the crowd some more. Miz climbs to the top but Rey knocks him off.

Rey begins to make a comeback but gets caught in a nice powerbomb by The Miz. Another pin attempt on Rey. Rey ducks a kick to the face and rolls Miz up for 2. Rey with a big superkick to the face for 2 now. More back and forth. Rey counters a move and drops Miz with a big DDT. Rey climbs to the top but Miz cuts him off. Miz climbs up but Rey knocks him to the mat. Rey comes off the top with a head scissors takedown. Rey nails 619 and climbs back to the top. Rey misses the headbutt. Miz goes for Skull Crushing Finale but Rey counters and drops him for another pin attempt. Miz drops Rey face first on the turnbuckle and then hits him with the Skull Crushing Finale for the win.

Winner: The Miz

- Eve Torres and Teddy Long are shown walking out of AJ Lee’s office. Teddy says he and the RAW stars love how AJ is doing her job. Eve agrees but you can tell she doesn’t mean it. They walk off and CM Punk appears. He hesitates before walking in. He says she is doing all this to him because he denied her marriage proposal and humiliated her. AJ just listens and won’t answer him. Punk says she has disrespected him like the fans. Punk says he will once again prove he is the best in the world tonight. Punk says on RAW tomorrow night, she and everyone else will be forced to show him some respect. AJ is still staring straight and not acknowledging him. Punk walks off.

- We get a promo video for tonight’s World Heavyweight Title match.

World Heavyweight Title Match: Alberto Del Rio vs. Sheamus

We go to the ring and out comes Alberto Del Rio as Ricardo Rodriguez does the introduction. World Heavyweight Champion Sheamus is out next to a pop from the crowd.

The bell rings and they lock up. Del Rio takes it to the corner but Sheamus comes out. Sheamus with a headlock and Del Rio takes it back to the corner but is forced to break. They tangle again and tumble over the top to the floor. They brawl and Del Rio slams Sheamus’ face into the announcers table. Sheamus brings it back in the ring but Del Rio kicks him in the head. Del Rio works Sheamus over in the corner now. Sheamus hits a big boot and a swinging neckbreaker for a 2 count. Sheamus works Del Rio over in the corner now.

More back and forth. Sheamus with a senton and a 2 count. Del Rio tries to hang on in the corner and the turnbuckle cover gets removed. Del Rio goes for a cross armbreaker but Sheamus blocks it. Sheamus misses a Brogue Kick and Del Rio kicks him out to the floor. Sheamus fights back but Del Rio goes for the leg. Del Rio brings it back in the ring and comes crashing down off the top for a 2 count. Del Rio with a headlock now. Sheamus fights out and has another neckbreaker blocked. Del Rio goes back to the leg and kicks Sheamus in the face for another 2 count. Del Rio continues the attack on Sheamus and chokes him with the ropes.

Sheamus finally starts to make a comeback but gets caught up in the corner again. Sheamus fights his way in from the apron with headbutts. Sheamus goes to the top but Del Rio stops him. Del Rio climbs up and hits an armbreaker from the top rope for a 2 count. Del Rio with an armbreaker now. Sheamus powers out and powerbombs him. Sheamus hits White Noise but Del Rio kicks out at 2. Sheamus calls for the Brogue Kick but stops and spears Del Rio in the corner after he side steps. Sheamus with a series of forearm shots to the chest on the ropes now. Sheamus with a series of right hands in the corner now. Del Rio counters and drops Sheamus in the corner. Del Rio with an enziguri in the corner for another close 2 count.

Ricardo is yelling from the apron now. Del Rio flips for some reason and pulls Ricardo in the ring and humiliates him. The referee forces Ricardo out of the ring but tosses his shoe to Del Rio. Sheamus grabs that shoe and decks Del Rio with it. Sheamus hits the Irish Curse for the pin but Del Rio’s foot was on the bottom rope.

Winner: Sheamus

- After the match, Ricardo is trying to show the referee that Del Rio had his foot on the bottom rope. Michael Cole is outraged also. It looks like Sheamus realizes what happened too but he leaves the ring. Del Rio and Ricardo argue with the referee now. The referee doesn’t want to hear it and heads to the back while Del Rio throws a fit in the ring. Sheamus stops on the stage and smiles with the World Heavyweight Title as we go to replays, which clearly show Del Rio had his foot on the bottom rope. Sheamus’ music finally stops and Del Rio heads to the back.

- Cole and Lawler plug Night of Champions.

- More hype for Triple H vs. Lesnar. We see footage from the pre-show where Triple H told referee Scott Armstrong to let them fight tonight. Cole talks about Shawn Michaels not being here tonight.

WWE Tag Team Title Match: Titus O’Neil and Darren Young vs. Kofi Kingston and R-Truth

We go to the ring and out first comes the challengers Titus O’Neil and Darren Young. Out next come the WWE Tag Team Champions Kofi Kingston and R-Truth.

Truth starts the match off with Young and unloads on him. Truth drops Young with a shoulder and continues the offense. Truth does a split and drops the big leg drop on Young for a 2 count. Young turns it around and backs Truth in the corner to tag in Titus. They double team Truth and Titus covers for 2. Titus keeps in control until Truth catches him with a big kick to the jaw. Kofi tags in and comes off the top at Titus. Kofi with chops and a dropkick. Kofi ducks a clothesline and leaps onto Titus. Kofi with the Boom Drop.

Kofi calls for Trouble in Paradise but Young distracts him, allowing Titus to roll to the floor. Kofi gets double teamed on the floor now. Titus brings Kofi back in the ring for a 2 count. Titus with knees to the gut and a big front slam for a 2 count. Young comes back and keeps his team in control. Kofi fights out but Young slams him for another pin attempt. Titus tags back in as Kofi tries to fight back but can’t. Titus with an abdominal stretch now. Titus catches Kofi again with a big slam but Kofi kicks him in mid-air and both go down. Truth and Young tag in now. Truth with the offense this time. Truth suplexes Young on his face and covers for 2 as Titus breaks the hold. Kofi comes in but Titus tosses him out of the ring. Kofi hangs on and comes back in to dump Titus to the floor. Kofi leaps from the top to the floor and takes Titus out with a crossbody. Young rolls Truth up from behind for 2. They tangle and Truth drops Young on his face with his finisher for the win.

Winners: Kofi Kingston and R-Truth

- We get footage from the SummerSlam festivities in Los Angeles over the weekend.

- Cole and Lawler hype the WWE Title match and lead us into a video package.

WWE Title Match: Big Show vs. John Cena vs. Big Show

We go to the ring and out first comes John Cena to a mixed reaction from the crowd. Big Show is out next followed by the WWE Champion CM Punk.

The bell rings and Show drops Cena and then Punk. Show hits Cena with a headbutt and fights Punk’s attack off. Show decks Cena again and goes back to Punk. Punk leaps onto Show but Show shoves him to the mat. Show goes back to work on Cena and hits him with a big chop. Punk also gets a big chop against the ropes. Another chop for Cena. Punk chops Show but gets headbutted and then another big chop to the chest. Cena and Punk both fight Show at the same time now. They try for a double suplex but Show reverses it and double suplexes them.

Show whips Cena to the corner and hits him with a big back splash. Cena rolls out to the floor. Punk and Show go at it now. Punk dropkicks his leg out. Punk with kicks to the head and chest now. Show still gets to his feet. Punk calls for and goes for GTS but can’t get Show up. Show knocks him to the mat. Cena comes in for an Attitude Adjustment but Punk kicks them both over to the mat. Punk covers Cena for 2 but Show breaks the pin. Show takes Punk to the corner and works him over now. Show stands on Punk’s back. Show whips Punk hard into the corner and he hits front side first. Show with a big body blow and another big chop in the corner. Show knocks Cena from the apron and he goes back down on the floor. Show misses a splash on Punk. Punk comes off the top but Show catches him in mid-air and lands on him. Show calls for the knockout punch but Cena comes in and unloads on him. Cena runs the ropes but Show spears him for a 2 count.

Show drags Cena and Punk both to the corner. Show goes for the Vader bomb but only hits Cena as Punk rolls out of the way. Punk tries to come back but Show tosses him over the top rope. Show goes to the floor and throws Punk into the ropes, causing him to bounce back and hit the floor. Show comes back in and is met by Cena. Show stops him and catches him with a big sideslam. Show has controlled the whole match just about. Show brings Punk to the apron but Punk drops him over the rope. Cena comes from behind with a side suplex on Show. Cena calls for the Five Knuckle Shuffle but Punk cuts him off and Cena ends up back on the floor. Punk mocks Cena and climbs to the top. Punk goes for the big elbow drop and nails it for a 2 count. Punk with kicks as Show is on his knees. Punk with a submission now. Show powers out and decks Punk. Punk rolls back to the floor as Cena comes in. Cena with a shoulder and then the STF on Show.

Show powers to his feet and rams Cena back into the corner. Cena comes off the second rope but Show catches him and slams him. Punk leaps in the ring and takes Show off his feet. Punk hits the high knee in the corner and then backs up for another. Punk goes for a third high knee and nails it. Show blocks the bulldog. Cena goes to the top now and hits the leg drop on Show. Punk goes for the Anaconda Vice again and locks it. Cena locks in the STF at the same time and Show taps out. Punk and Cena argue with the referee about who’s the winner. AJ Lee comes out to a pop from the crowd. She skips down to the ring and asks for a mic. She has the match restarted. Punk and Cena turn around to a double chokeslam from Show but Cena kicks out at 2. Show covers Punk but he kicks out.

Show goes for the knockout punch on Cena but he hits the Attitude Adjustment. Punk runs over, tosses Cena out of the ring and covers Show for the win.

Winner: CM Punk

- After the match, Cena walks off disappointed as Punk celebrates in the ring and poses with the WWE Title. Punk goes to ringside to celebrate with the fans.

- We see Vince McMahon’s star on the Walk of Fame and see some celebrities in the crowd. Fred Durst flips the camera off. Former WCW Champion David Arquette has a title belt in the crowd. Maria Menounos is wearing a t-shirt with Bob Backlund and Pat Patterson.

- They plug WWE Studios’ The Day and we see the cast in the crowd.

- Highlights from the pre-show with Antonio Cesaro winning the United States Title from Santino Marella are shown.

- Kevin Rudolf is on the stage to perform the SummerSlam theme.

- We get a video package for tonight’s main event.

Triple H vs. Brock Lesnar

We go to the ring and out first comes Brock Lesnar with Paul Heyman. Out next comes Triple H. They exchange stares as Triple H does his entrance.

Justin Roberts foes formal ring introductions. The bell rings and a brawl begins. Lesnar thrusts Triple H back into the corner and works him over. Lesnar goes for a kimura lock in the corner but HHH breaks it. Lesnar with more thrusts and brawling. Lesnar goes for the kimura again and has it locked while Triple H is on the ropes but the hold isn’t broken by the referee. More brawling in the corner until Lesnar gets sent out to the floor. Heyman tries to calm Lesnar down at ringside. Lesnar comes in and takes his gloves off. They knuckle up but Lesnar takes Triple H down and hits him with a big right hand in the back of the head. Triple H rolls to the floor and Lesnar follows him. They trade kicks on the floor and Triple H fights back. Lesnar with knees to the gut. Lesnar slams HHH into the announcers table, slamming him down on his arm. Lesnar comes back in the ring. Scott Armstrong doesn’t count Triple H because of their talk earlier.

HHH comes back in but Lesnar slams him on the arm again. Lesnar goes for the kimura lock again but takes HHH to the corner and pulls the arm against the top rope. Lesnar stomps on HHH now. HHH tries to fight back but gets his arm locked up again by Lesnar. Lesnar tosses HHH shoulder first into the corner and he goes back down. Lesnar scoops HHH for the F5 but HHH counters it. Lesnar counters that with a German suplex throw. We see that Lesnar is bleeding a bit from his nose now. Lesnar stands on HHH’s arm and stomps it. HHH comes back in the ring and they trade kicks. HHH with a DDT. Lesnar comes right back and works on the arm. Lesnar with another slam on top of the arm.

They go back to the floor and Lesnar throws HHH into the steel steps. Lesnar rams HHH back into the Spanish announcers table. Lesnar climbs on top of the tipped over table and leaps off onto HHH with a big right hand. They come back in the ring and Lesnar continues the attack. HHH tries to fight back but Lesnar rolls him up for a 2 count. Lesnar runs into HHH with a big clothesline. HHH blocks a suplex and hits one of his own. Lesnar charges in the corner but HHH ducks the clothesline. HHH goes for a Pedigree but can’t. Lesnar sends HHH flying over the top rope.

HHH sends Lesnar into the announcers table now gut first. Lesnar comes back over and HHH hits him in the gut. Lesnar comes down and yells out about his stomach. Cole points out that Lesnar has a history of stomach problems. Lesnar rolls in the ring but is clutching his stomach in pain. HHH comes in now but Lesnar goes for the arm lock. HHH fights back with knees to the gut. HHH drops Lesnar with a running knee to the midsection. Another big shot from HHH. HHH with more knees to the gut now. HHH catches Lesnar with the big spinebuster now. HHH goes for a Pedigree again but Lesnar counters. Lesnar goes for the F5 but HHH counters with a Pedigree and Lesnar kicks out at 2.

HHH goes down after a blatant low blow from Lesnar. The referee just shakes his head and checks on HHH, asking him if he can continue. Heyman screams that HHH wanted a fight and got one. Lesnar goes for the F5 and this time nails it. HHH kicks out at 2. Lesnar goes back for the kimura lock but HHH fights him off. Lesnar drops HHH and has the kimura locked in this time. HHH puts his foot on the bottom rope for no reason. HHH finally breaks the hold. HHH grabs Lesnar and lays him down with a Pedigree. Lesnar still applies the kimura lock again. HHH won’t tape until Lesnar tightens it. HHH finally taps out to end it.

Winner: Brock Lesnar

- After the match, Lesnar goes to ringside with Heyman as trainers come in to check on Triple H. The announcers fear that HHH’s arm may be broke again as we go to replays. Lesnar leaves and his music stops. Triple H is shown in the ring trying to recover. The crowd chants his name as he pushes a trainer off. He tells the man to get out of the ring. The crowd breaks out in a brief “you tapped out” chant. HHH finally stands up and is met with a mixed reaction, mostly applause from the crowd. Now a Triple H chant breaks out. Triple H hangs around the ring for a few more minutes before exiting. HHH greets some fans at ringside as he makes his way up the ramp, slowly. It looks like he’s getting emotional as he backs up the ramp and the crowd cheers. HHH heads to the back as Lawler speculates that he just said goodbye. SummerSlam goes off the air.

07/27 : SmackDown Results

The Miz arrived out to start the show, and began talking up his big win to become Intercontinental Champion.  He thanks the "Peeps" for their votes to help him get the match.  Christian comes out demanding a rematch.  The match gets booked for right now.

The Miz defeated Christian by pinfall to retain the Intercontinental Championship.  Late in the match, Christian went for Killswitch, but Miz countered and hit a DDT on him.  Miz went to the ropes in the corner, but Christian throws him down.  Christian sets up for a Spear but Miz rolls out of the ring.  The two exchange offense once Miz gets back in the ring, but Miz gets a surprise rollup pinfall for the win.

Ryback defeated Jinder Mahal due to countout.  Mahal had some strikes and tried a pin, but it was shortlived.  Ryback made the big comeback, and hit a huge spinebuster.  Mahal left the ring and heded up the ramp.  The ref kept counting until he hit 10, giving Ryback the win.  Ryback yelled "Feed me more!"

Sheamus defeated Cody Rhodes by pinfall.  Dolph Ziggler arrived to ringside with his briefcase during the match, watching for when Rhodes gained control.  Late in the match, Sheamus is able to make a comeback after Rhodes taunted him with his chest pounding move.  Sheamus hits the Brogue Kick for the big win.  Post-match, Ziggler teased cashing in by getting up on the apron.  He ripped his shirt off but never went after Sheamus.  Chris Jericho arrives from behind him and shoves Ziggler into the ring.  Sheamus gives Ziggler a beatdown, then Jericho hits the Codebreaker on Ziggler.

Antonio Cesaro defeated Santino Marello by pinfall.  Late in the match, Santino had the Cobra sock, but got distracted by Aksana.  Cesaro is able to use that to his advantage to finish off Santino in the non-title matchup.

Damien Sandow defeated Yoshi Tatsu by pinfall.  Sandow won in a very quick match over Yoshi.

Rosa Mendes was shown doing a photo shoot backstage.  Abraham Washington shows up with his team, the Primetime Players, and grabs the camera from the camera guy to start taking photos of PTP instead.

Alberto Del Rio won a Fatal 4-Way match to determine #1 contender for the World Heavweight Championship.  Competing in the match were Del Rio, Rey Mysterio, Kane, and Daniel Bryan.  Late in this match, Kane and Bryan battle ringside, with Bryan clotheslining Kane over a crowd barricade.  Bryan gets back in the ring.  Rey Mysterio hit a 619 on Daniel Bryan and Del Rio at once.  Rey goes to the top rope and hits his diving headbutt move on Bryan.  He goes to pin Bryan, but Ricardo Rodriguez pulls Rey out of the ring, allowing Del Rio to steal the pinfall for the win.  Del Rio is the #1 contender for Sheamus' World Championship.

> 07/16/12 : Raw SuperShow results: Cena to cash in on Punk; AJ and Bryan to wed on Raw 1,000!

LAS VEGAS – On the action-packed final two-hour Raw in history, AJ accepted Daniel Bryan’s wedding proposal and John Cena announced that he will cash in his Money in the Bank championship contract against WWE Champion CM Punk on Raw’s 1,000th episode.

WWE Champion CM Punk vs. Big Show announced (PHOTOS)
In the same city where WWE Champion CM Punk delivered his blistering "pipe bomb" a little more than a year ago (MORE), The Straight Edge Superstar kicked off the final Raw before the historic 1,000th episode by declaring he has firmly proven he is the best in the world. (RAW 1,000 COVERAGE)

But, Big Show interrupted to offer his thoughts on how the champion’s last year has gone.

But inside the sold-out Mandalay Bay Casino, Big Show interrupted to offer his thoughts on how the champion’s last year has gone and claim he was inches away from winning a championship contract at Money in the Bank the night before. As The World’s Largest Athlete and Punk traded verbal barbs, The World’s Largest Athlete pointed out the gigantic implications of their main event match. With the very good chance Punk could get knocked out, he’d be in real jeopardy of Mr. Money in the Bank cashing in his contract.

RAW 1,000 POLL
Which championship would you like to see defended next week on the 1,000th episode of Raw? (VOTE NOW)

From the sound of the bell, JTG offered just about zero challenge to Brodus Clay, until JTG started targeting Clay’s knee. Before JTG could mount a comeback, though, the massive Clay battled back and brutalized JTG with a headbutt followed up by sending his massive frame down onto his hapless opponent.

PHOTOS

With Vickie Guerrero at his side, Mr. Money in the Bank Dolph Ziggler reminded the WWE Universe that all past Money in the Bank contract holders successfully cashed in their contracts. Then as Ziggler rattled of names of Superstars who he claims he’ll be better than — including Bret Hart, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and The Rock — Chris Jericho emerged to confront him. As Jericho remained silent, Ziggler suggested that Jericho could be losing his touch. Without saying a single word, Jericho blasted Ziggler with a hard-hitting Codebreaker!

PHOTOS

The latest returning Raw legend to take on Health Slater was Rikishi, who absolutely obliterated Slater! It was all downhill after a blistering kick to the face, followed by a very uncomfortable looking Stinkface. To finish off Slater, Rikishi dropped all of his crushing 400-plus-pound mass on his helpless opponent. Following the win, Jimmy and Jey Uso joined their father in a celebratory dance that would make Brodus Clay jealous.

PHOTOS

In mixed tag action, Eve partnered with The Miz to take on AJ & Daniel Bryan. When the referee was distracted by Miz, AJ rolled up Eve for the pinfall.

After the match, Bryan poured his heart out to the diminutive Diva and outrightly admitted, “AJ, I love you.” Then, he got down on one knee, extended an engagement ring and asked, “AJ, will you marry me?”

An emotional AJ allowed Bryan to slip the ring on her finger and she said the magic word: “yes.” Then, the two embraced in a passionate kiss and lead the WWE Universe in chanting “Yes! Yes! Yes!” to their big news.

The two will be married on Raw's 1000th episode next Monday at 8/7 CT on USA Network. But first, they will be Christian's special guests on the "Peep Show" this Friday on SmackDown on Syfy at 8/7 CT.

PHOTOS

In mixed tag action, Eve partnered with The Miz to take on AJ & Daniel Bryan. When the referee was distracted by Miz, AJ rolled up Eve for the pinfall.

After the match, Bryan poured his heart out to the diminutive Diva and outrightly admitted, “AJ, I love you.” Then, he got down on one knee, extended an engagement ring and asked, “AJ, will you marry me?”

An emotional AJ allowed Bryan to slip the ring on her finger and she said the magic word: “yes.” Then, the two embraced in a passionate kiss and lead the WWE Universe in chanting “Yes! Yes! Yes!” to their big news.

The two will be married on Raw's 1000th episode next Monday at 8/7 CT on USA Network. But first, they will be Christian's special guests on the "Peep Show" this Friday on SmackDown on Syfy at 8/7 CT.

PHOTOS

In his toughest challenge yet, Ryback was up against Jack Swagger, who came out of the gate with a formidable offense. After the impressive start, it looked as if Swagger could be the Superstar to hand Ryback his first loss. But it was not to be. After a monster clothesline followed by three brutal powerbombs in a row, Ryback left the The All-American American reeling. Following the impressive path of destruction, Ryback lead the WWE Universe in chanting: “Feed me more!”

In an impressive win, Alberto Del Rio forced Zack Ryder to tap out to his Cross Armbreaker. When Del Rio refused to release the painful return, Rey Mysterio stunned the WWE Universe and charged in to attack Del Rio! As the two Superstars mixed it up, Mysterio blasted Del Rio with the 619!

One night after their victory at Money in the Bank against Hunico & Camacho, the WWE Tag Team Champions followed up with a title match against The Prime Time Players on Raw Supershow. It was the first time the champions defended their titles on Raw. While All World Promotions owner A.W. argued with the referee, Kofi Kingston seized the moment and blasted Titus O’Neil with Trouble in Paradise, allowing R-Truth to follow-up for the win. After the bout, A.W. made it clear: he was not happy with the outcome.

AJ & Daniel Bryan vs. Eve and a partner of her choice announced
While Daniel Bryan was apologizing to AJ – saying he got caught up trying to become WWE Champion – Eve interrupted with news from the WWE Board of Directors. She and a partner of her choosing would be facing AJ & Bryan in tag action later in the night.

After pushing themselves to the limit in their respective matches one night earlier at Money in the Bank, Big Show and WWE Champion CM Punk fought tooth-and-nail in the night’s main event. Just when it looked like The Straight Edge Superstar had Show right where he wanted, Punk launched himself with a flying elbow from the top rope. But Show came back with a wicked chokeslam that almost resulted in a three count. Next, with the referee knocked out of commission by Big Show, the bout ended in a disqualification and Show continued to batter the champion. But before he could inflict more damage, Mr. Money in the Bank John Cena charged in with his briefcase.

After citing Punk’s 239-day reign as champion, Cena announced he would be cashing in his championship contract next week. “At Raw 1,000, with both of us fresh, we will find out who the best in the world really is,” Cena said.

Not done yet, Mr. Money in the Bank followed up on his Tout to the WWE Universe about making an announcement from earlier in the day. As he started to utter the words “My huge announcement? …” Cena swiftly bashed Show with his metal Money in the Bank briefcase, sending him crashing to the arena floor.

Money In The Bank 2012 » Result » CM Punk vs Daniel Bryan [AJ Special Guest Referee - NO DQ Match] (WWE Championship)

We go to the ring and out comes the special referee AJ. Out next comes the challenger Daniel Bryan. Bryan enters the ring and kisses AJ on her hand. WWE Champion CM Punk is out next to a big pop. Justin Roberts does formal ring introductions before the bell.

The bell rings and they go at it. They end up on the floor early and Punk hits Bryan with big chops and rams him into the apron. Bryan whips Punk into the barrier and hits some chops of his own. Bryan brings it back in the ring and drops a knee on Punk. Bryan chants yes as he kicks Punk over and over. Punk rolls Bryan up out of nowhere for 2. Punk fights Bryan into the corner with knees to the gut. Punk with more chops in the corner. Bryan turns it around and rakes at Punk's face. Bryan with more chops and yes chants. Punk fires back with chops and now they're trading them. They switch to kicks but Punk drops Bryan with an uppercut.

Punk with a knee to the back but he looks at AJ and Bryan turns it around. Bryan with a series of kicks on Punk. Bryan with a 1 count. Bryan applies a submission as AJ checks on Punk. Bryan drops Punk with a shoulder and they run the ropes. Punk connects with a dropkick and Bryan rolls out to the floor. Punk runs and suicide dives through the ropes, taking Bryan out. Punk gets up on the barrier and poses for the fans. Punk fights Bryan towards the entrance area. They block each others suplexes. Punk slaps Bryan into the fan barrier on the entrance way. Punk brings Bryan back in the ring. Bryan shoves Punk into AJ and she falls down at ringside. Punk comes out to check on her and Bryan attacks from behind.

Bryan throws Punk into the steel steps and goes to check on AJ. Trainers are also out checking on her. They walk AJ back to the back and a new referee comes out as Bryan kicks away on Punk at ringside. Bryan runs off the apron and tackles Punk on the floor. Bryan drops Punk over the steel steps and hits him with more kicks. Bryan whips Punk hard into the fan barrier. Bryan charges but Punk dumps him over and into the timekeeper's area. Punk sits Bryan up on the barrier. Punk leaps up and clotheslines Bryan off and they both go to the floor.

The crowd chants for tables now. Punk pulls one out from under the ring and they pop. Bryan attacks from behind and slams Punk on the floor. Bryan pulls out a kendo stick from under the ring and chants yes. Punk avoids the first kendo shot and the second. Punk rolls in the ring and waits for Bryan to enter with the stick. Bryan connects with the stick and enters the ring. Pun ducks and takes it. Bryan hits Punk before he can use it and the stick goes to the mat. They go at it and Bryan catches Punk in mid-air with a kendo stick shot as he leaps in with a clothesline. Bryan with a 2 count. Bryan whips Punk over and over in the back with the kendo stick now.

Bryan covers for a 2 count. Bryan takes Punk back to the corner and rakes at his face. Bryan with kicks in the corner and a snap suplex. Bryan leaps off the top with a headbutt but Punk rolls out of the way. They trade kicks and forearms in the middle of the ring. Punk with clotheslines and a neckbreaker. 2 count for Punk. Punk with knees to the body now followed by the high knee in the corner. Bryan blocks the bulldog but Punk catches him in a powerslam for another 2 count. Punk calls for GTS now.

Bryan blocks GTS. Punk blocks the Yes Lock. Bryan blocks GTS again with a counter. Bryan kicks Punk in the head for a close 2 count. Bryan with another kendo stick shot. Punk blocks a submission and wails away on Bryan with the kendo stick. Punk makes it up and climbs to the top rope. Bryan cuts him off and climbs up for a superplex. Bryan nails it but has trouble getting up. AJ comes running to the ring and tells the other referee to get out.

AJ skips around the ring as both men are down. She brings a steel chair in, sits it in the middle of the ring and steps back smiling. Bryan and Punk go for the chair but Bryan grabs it first. He unloads on Punk with chairshots but only gets a 2 count. Bryan gets upset with her count. He talks to her but Punk rolls him up from behind for a 2 count. Bryan pleads with AJ some more and unloads on Punk with kicks, saying these are for her. Bryan beats Punk down with a ton of kicks in the corner as AJ looks on. Bryan charges in the corner but Punk comes out with a big clothesline. Punk grabs the chair now and wails away on Bryan with it. Punk wedges the chair in the corner but AJ stands in front of it as Punk grabs Bryan. Punk tells her to move. She does when he walks over but Bryan attacks and dropkicks Punk into the corner. Dueling chants from the crowd now. Bryan goes for the kendo stick but AJ steps on it and laughs. Bryan turns around to a big shot from Punk. Punk scoops Bryan with the chair and slams him on it. Punk climbs to the top for an elbow drop but Bryan moves and Punk lands on the chair. Bryan goes for the Yes Lock but Punk crawls. Bryan grabs the kendo stick and uses it for leverage in the Yes Lock. AJ checks on Punk as Bryan screams yes. Punk fights out of the hold by using the kendo stick. Punk catapults Bryan into the corner and then catches him with GTS. Punk goes for the cover but Bryan kicks out at 2.

Punk goes to the floor and brings a table in the ring. He lays Bryan on top of it and beats on him some more. Punk climbs to the top for the elbow drop but Bryan rolls off the table and stops Punk before he can jump. Bryan with right hands and a kick to the face. Bryan climbs up with Punk but Punk counters and drops Bryan between his legs on the top turnbuckle. Punk climbs back up and hits Bryan with elbows. Punk hits a huge backdrop from the top, sending Bryan crashing through the table. AJ counts and Punk gets the win.

Winner: CM Punk

- After the match, AJ takes the WWE Title and hands it to Punk, who goes to the corner to celebrate. AJ looks confused and a bit upset as Bryan lays knocked out on the broken table. We go to replays with AJ watching Punk celebrate.

SRC- WI

>> Money In The Bank Matches : WWE Champion CM Punk vs. Daniel Bryan

CM Punk will put his WWE Championship on the line at Money in the Bank in what’s sure to be another thrilling technical match against Daniel Bryan.

Vickie Guerrero, the interim General Manager of Raw and SmackDown, announced the WWE Championship Match on Twitter during the June 25 Raw SuperShow on her account @ExcuseMeWWE. She tweeted:

I’ve just confirmed with the WWE Board that at #MoneyInTheBank, @CMPunk will defend the WWE Championship against @WWEDanielBryan.

These two rivals clashed in May at WWE Over the Limit in a match that won’t soon be forgotten. Showcasing their bitter rivalry and proficient technical abilities, this intensely physical bout ended in controversy, as Punk pinned Bryan while nearly simultaneously tapping out. The Straight Edge Savior won the battle and retained his title.

More recently at No Way Out, Punk’s WWE Title was on the line again in a Triple Threat Match against Bryan and Kane. Thanks to interference by AJ, Punk hit the Go to Sleep on The Big Red Monster, allowing The Second City Saint to retain the WWE Championship.

The ever-increasingly unstable AJ has continued to make her presence known around Punk, Bryan and Kane, whether she’s giving good luck kisses or wearing miniature versions of her latest flame’s gear. To complicate things further, the WWE Universe has elected her the special guest referee for the championship clash at Money in the Bank – via a WWE.com poll. Now, Punk and Bryan are left to wonder how the enigmatic Diva will play her part in their latest bout.

Will Punk continue his lengthy title reign when he faces his longtime rival, Bryan, at Money in the Bank? Can AJ remain impartial as the special guest referee? Could her feelings for either Superstar make the difference in the battle for the WWE Championship? Tune in to Money in the Bank July 15, live on pay-per-view at 8 ET/5 PT. (HOW TO WATCH)

WWE No Way Out 2012 Results » CM Punk vs Daniel Bryan vs Kane (Triple Threat Match - WWE Championship)

Out first comes Kane. Daniel Bryan is out next followed by the WWE Champion CM Punk. The crowd finally wakes up as Punk makes his entrance. Justin Roberts does formal ring introductions before the bell.

The bell rings and Kane strikes Punk while Bryan hits Kane from behind. Kane pushes Bryan off and goes back to Punk. Bryan unloads on Kane but gets stopped. Kane grabs for a double chokeslam. Bryan and Punk team up to hit a series of kicks on Kane as the crowd chants YES. They take Kane down with a bunch of kicks and then both dropkick him. They trade pin attempts and stop each other from getting the pin. Punk and Bryan trade shots in the middle of the ring now. Punk fires back with forearms and dumps Bryan out to the floor. Punk charges but Kane clotheslines him for a 2 count. Kane works over Punk until Bryan hits from behind and sends him out to the floor. Bryan dives through the ropes and takes out Kane on the floor. Punk springboards up and leaps out onto both men.

Punk brings Bryan back into the ring for a 2 count. Kane trips Punk and brings him out to the floor, sending him hard into the barrier. Bryan charges and kicks Kane back. Bryan leaps from the apron but Kane uppercuts him in the throat. Kane rams Punk back into the ring post twice. Kane wraps Punk around the ring post and pulls his ribs into it. Kane with another pin attempt on Punk. Kane continues working on Punk. Kane with a dropkick to the face and another 2 count. Kane with a body scissors now. Punk fights out with elbows. Punk looks to be coming back but Bryan comes in from out of nowhere and dropkicks him in the corner. Bryan goes for Kane but gets caught with a big sideslam for 2.

More with Kane and Bryan. Kane goes down and to the floor after a big kick to the face. Punk gets up and chops Bryan now. Bryan stops Punk with a big knee to the gut. Bryan drops knees on Punk and covers him for another pin attempt. Bryan with a double underhook suplex. Bryan goes to the top but Punk stops him. Punk climbs up for a superplex but Kane pulls him off. Kane with a big right hand to Bryan, and another. Kane goes for the superplex but Punk pulls him down. Punk climbs back up but Kane pulls him down again. Kane goes for the superplex yet again but Punk stops him. They trade shots until Bryan takes them down with a double dropkick. Bryan with kicks to Punk and Kane as they both sit on their knees.

Kane goes down from a kick but Punk ducks it and rolls Bryan up for 2. Punk makes a comeback and hits the high knee in the corner. He nails one on Kane in the opposite corner. Kane blocks the bulldog. Punk with a neckbreaker on Kane for 2 as Bryan breaks it up. Punk with a powerslam on Bryan for 2. Punk climbs to the top but Bryan cuts him off. Bryan climbs up for a superplex but here comes Kane. Kane puts Bryan on his shoulders. Punk climbs up and clotheslines him off and then clotheslines Kane to the floor. Punk with a 2 count on Bryan. Punk slams Bryan and goes back to the top. Punk hits the elbow drop but Bryan kicks out at 2. Punk goes for GTS but Kane knocks them both down with a boot. Kane covers Punk for 2.

Kane with clotheslines for Punk. Punk moves out of the corner but gets dumped back to the apron. Punk drops Kane with a kick to the jaw. Punk climbs up for the big elbow drop but Kane moves out of the way and Punk crashes. Bryan climbs up to the top now and hits the flying headbutt on Punk. 2 count for Bryan. Bryan dumps Kane to the apron and knocks him out to the floor. More back and forth. Bryan drops Punk with a kick to the head. Bryan with the YES Lock on Punk now. Punk turns it into a 2 count. Punk goes for GTS and hits it. Kane pulls Bryan out of the ring and stops the pin from happening. Kane comes off the top with a big right hand for Punk. Kane calls for a chokeslam but Punk turns it into a DDT for 2. Punk goes back to the top and hits the big elbow drop on Kane for another pin attempt.

Punk goes for GTS but can't get Kane up. Kane with a big boot. Kane chokeslams Punk and covers him for a close 2 count. Kane has words with the referee. Kane goes for the Tombstone but Punk slides out. AJ runs down and gets on the apron but Punk shoves Kane into her and she lands on the floor. Kane gets mad but Punk nails GTS on him for the win.

Winner: CM Punk

No Way Out 2012 Matches » CM Punk vs Daniel Bryan vs Kane (Triple Threat Match - WWE Championship)

A deranged monster’s dark fury has added even more fuel to one of WWE’s most explosive rivalries.

Executive Vice President of Talent Relations and General Manager of Raw and SmackDown John Laurinaitis dropped a bombshell on the June 1 episode of SmackDown: WWE Champion CM Punk will defend his title at No Way Out in a Triple Threat Match against both Daniel Bryan and Kane.

The impetus behind this shocking announcement can be traced directly back to the nefarious actions of Bryan, himself. In recent weeks, WWE’s “Yes” man attempted to use Kane as a pawn in his ongoing conflict with the WWE Champion. The Big Red Monster is hardly the type to be exploited, however, and it wasn’t long before his fiery presence would intensify what was already an open – and volatile – hostility between Punk and Bryan.

In a battle between fierce competitors who have known each other for nearly 10 years, Punk barely fended off Bryan at WWE Over the Limit last month – getting the pinfall nanoseconds before tapping out to the excruciating pain of the “Yes!” Lock. Bryan’s near-victory against the long-tenured champion made it all but inevitable that he would get another opportunity at the greatest prize in WWE.

In his struggle to gain even the smallest advantage over The Best in the World, blinded by his desire for championship gold, Bryan sold his soul to the devil – actually, The Devil’s Favorite Demon. Tricking Kane to turn the monster’s fury against Punk, Bryan meddled with a force he couldn’t possibly control. On the May 18 episode of SmackDown, he repeatedly hammered Kane in the back with a steel chair before fleeing and leaving the WWE Champion to take the blame. The ploy worked in the short-term, as Punk sustained a brutal beating at Kane's hands, but Bryan must now face the music for his machinations.

The Big Red Monster refuses to bend to the will of any Superstar, and his fiery rage may consume both Punk and Bryan. The masked force of nature brings brutality, cold-bloodedness and raw power to a rivalry that, thus far, has been defined primarily by agility, technique and heart.

As if the terrorizing presence of Kane and the innate chaos of a Triple Threat Match weren’t challenging enough, Punk’s No Way Out title defense is exacerbated by a fourth individual, someone who likely won’t even be competing that night. AJ – the not-so-secret admirer of Punk and the unbalanced ex-girlfriend of Bryan – is a wild card in an already unpredictable situation. Will her infatuation with the champion or her abhorrence of the submission specialist come into play at the explosive pay-per-view? Maybe Punk’s greatest threat isn’t a “Yes!” Lock or a chokeslam, but a woman scorned.

As WWE Champion CM Punk’s reign nears 200 days, will it come crashing down in flames, or can The Second City Savior defend his title against two very different – yet equally dangerous – opponents? The only way to find out is to tune in to No Way Out, June 17 at 8 ET/5 PT – only on pay-per-view.

WWE Over The Limit 2012 Results > WWE Championship Match > CM Punk (c) Vs. Daniel Bryan

RALEIGH, N.C.– Far from their humble beginnings competing inside state armories and high school gymnasiums, WWE Champion CM Punk and No. 1 contender Daniel Bryan battled in an instant classic that left the WWE Universe absolutely breathless and Bryan incredulous. When the smoke cleared and the chants of “This is awesome” quieted, Punk was left holding the WWE Title, although the pinfall he used to achieve that end has already been called into controversy. (PHOTOS)

From their many travels around the globe perfecting their craft, to their current statuses as two of the world’s premier talents, Punk and Bryan have been on parallel paths for most of their careers. (Punk & Bryan’s Long Road to the Top)

At WWE Over the Limit, those paths intersected.

With arguably WWE’s two most technically proficient grapplers clashing head-on, the match was projected from the outset to be a wrestling purist’s dream, and it more than lived up to those lofty expectations. Despite their obvious scientific wrestling prowess, neither the 6-foot-2 Punk nor the 5-foot-11 Bryan has ever been confused for anything resembling a WWE poster boy.

Instead of boasting larger-than-life chiseled physiques, Punk and Bryan have established themselves as ring generals, and at WWE Over the Limit, vindication for their hard work – in the form of the ultimate symbol of excellence in sports-entertainment, the WWE Championship – was up for grabs.

Although the title bout seemed forged by fate, it actually originated out of circumstance, when Bryan won a Beat the Clock Challenge on Raw SuperShow to claim his spot as the No. 1 contender. Since then, Bryan made every attempt to score an advantage on The Second City Saint. Bryan’s latest offense, an act of trickery that caused an irate Kane to brutalize Punk with a steel chair and two chokeslams following a match on SmackDown, appeared to have done the trick.

At the very least, Bryan’s dastardly tactic irritated Punk, who moments before the opening bell told Josh Mathews that even though their match should be seen as a “triumph” for himself and Bryan, the Yes!-man’s change of heart this past year has hampered the festivities. According to The Straight Edge Superstar, the bout would be much more than a five-star match – it’d be a “five-star beat down.”

Punk’s words, it turned out, would prove prescient.

At the sound of the opening bell, Punk and Bryan began the contest with a feeling-out process in which they peppered each other with sharp kicks. The Second City Saint quickly went on the offensive, using submission holds against the self-proclaimed “submission specialist.” Throughout the bout, Punk would return again and again to Bryan’s left leg.

After avoiding a Punk baseball slide, however, Bryan rammed the WWE Champion back-first into the ringside barrier, further weakening Punk’s ribs, which appeared to have not yet healed from Kane’s attack Friday.

From there, Bryan attacked with pit bull-like veracity. He kneed Punk’s midsection and used a torso-wrenching abdominal stretch to great effect.

Never one to be counted down, The Straight Edge Superstar would again turn the tables on his storied foe, reversing a Bryan kick into a dragon-screw leg whip before locking him into a seemingly inescapable figure-four – causing more damage to Bryan’s already smarting knee.

"How many near falls have there been in this match, not to mention the submission predicaments?" Jerry “The King” Lawler wondered aloud, as Punk and Bryan warred on to the sounds of the passionate WWE Universe vacillating between chants of “Daniel Bryan” and “CM Punk” (and, occasionally, “Yes!” and “No!).

Punk and Bryan’s intimate knowledge of each other's move sets was obvious, as they reversed signature holds and tried valiantly to check kicks. As Punk built momentum, he nailed his trademark high running knee in the corner.

Yet, as Punk then tried for the second half of his patented combo, the running bulldog, his effort was blocked by Bryan and reversed into a “Yes!" Lock.

Although the lock was clamped on for several moments, the WWE Champion nonetheless had the wherewithal to roll backward and turn the dangerous hold into a stunning pinfall. The win, however, was not without controversy, as immediately following the three-count, Punk was visibly tapping out.

With Punk barely able to hold his championship overhead in an exhausted celebration, Bryan – who clearly believed he was wronged – jawed angrily with the referee.

For once all the “Yes!” man could say was, “No! No! No!”

Over The Limit 2012 » Matches » CM Punk vs Daniel Bryan (WWE Championship

In several ways, a CM Punk-Daniel Bryan WWE Championship Match was always fated to be. The two Superstars are among the purest athletes and finest technicians WWE has ever seen. Their championship reigns were some of the most dominant in late 2011 and early 2012, and they come from a hardscrabble, old-school wrestling background that has endeared them to the WWE Universe in a way that is not typically seen amongst modern Superstars. And now, at Over the Limit, they will finally meet with the supreme prize on the line.
The clash is sure to be a memorable one: each time these two have met in the ring, the results have been electric. The two wrestled a fierce sequence of Champion vs. Champion Matches earlier this year, when Bryan still held the World Heavyweight Title, and their paths have crossed numerous times over 10 years in smaller, independent promotions all over the world.
Bryan seemed to be out of the world title picture after a pair of losses to Sheamus – the infamous 18-second defeat that cost him the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania, and a grueling 2-out-of-3-Falls rematch a few weeks later at Extreme Rules. But the upstart Superstar was actually emboldened by his effort in the rematch, which saw him trap The Great White in the “Yes!” Lock and render him unconscious in the process. Bryan’s bravado carried him through a Beat the Clock Challenge on the following night’s Raw, when he beat times set by Randy Orton and The Miz to earn the right to challenge for Punk’s mantle.
Immediately after learning of his new No. 1 contender, The Second City Saint made his presence known. Punk sized up his future opponent from the stage and offered a round of applause in approval for his opponent before holding his title aloft in defiance of his challenger. Bryan responded with a mocking gesture of his own, which is particularly fitting given the rivalry between these two: neither will budge, neither will back down. But only time will tell who is left standing with the ultimate prize in hand.

SRC- WWE.com

WWE Trademarks The Rock Term, Daniel Bryan Nominated For PETA Award

WWE has trademarked the term “Boots to Asses” to use on merchandise, according to PWInsider.com. The term was introduced by The Rock on Twitter and became a worldwide trending hashtag last month.

PETA has nominated WWE Money in the Bank briefcase holder Daniel Bryan for a Peta2 Libby Award in the “Top Animal-Friendly Athlete” category. You can vote for Bryan