Chapter LVI: A Few Days Later

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(A/N: Bet you thought it was gonna be another two months before I updated again. Nope, I just had a little trouble writing one of the matches, I ended up putting in a commercial break to help with the progress of it, but I'm still not overly happy with it. For now though, enjoy this chapter.)

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Raw was live from Spokane Washington and was coming off of an explosive No Way Out Pay-Per-View. Last Night Triple H had become the new WWE Champion, Jack Swagger had retained his ECW Championship, Machetti had become the 2009 Royal Rumble Winner, Shawn Michaels had won his freedom from JBL and finally, Edge had won Raw's World Heavyweight Championship after attacking Kofi Kingston and forcing himself into the match.

Speaking of Edge, he and his wife Smackdown General Manager Vickie Guerrero were in the ring to start the show, the fans were showing their disapproval of the New World Champion and the General Manager in a very vocal manner. Edge was enjoying his moment and was yelling at the fans telling them that they were wrong for thinking he would leaving No Way Out without a Championship, even after he was the first one eliminated from the Smackdown Elimination Chamber. Vickie Guerrero informed audience that the somewhat controversial decision from last night stood, and Edge was officially the New World Heavyweight Champion.

Suddenly Riot Time hit and the fans cheered as the 2009 Royal Rumble Winner came out from the back. Machetti was wearing jeans, an untucked white button-down shirt, and a huge smirk as he casually made his way down to the ring. He slid under the bottom of the ring and got in the ring and pulled out the mic he had brought out with him then stood up so he was facing Edge.

"What the hell do you want!?" demanded Edge. "Can't you see I'm busy? I don't have time to deal with you and your pointless shenanigans."

"Pointless?" repeated Machetti, sounding slightly offended. "I just came out here because I wanted to be the first to say something to your face in front of a live audience."

"And what would that be?" asked Edge. "Are you gonna put me on notice? Huh, Mr. Royal Rumble Winner? You gonna make false promises about how my title reign is gonna end at WrestleMania?"

"Not exactly," answered Machetti. "Last night what you did was underhanded and sneaky you attacked a superstar and forced yourself into a title match. But at the same time, what you did was unexpected and courageous, you wrestled in two Elimination Chamber Matches in one night. And finally you went into No Way Out with a Championship and you left with a championship. Well, I only have on thing to say to you about that…"

"Oh yeah, and what's that?" challenged Edge, ready for the worst.

"Congratulations Champ," said Machetti as he held out his hand. The fans looked surprised, Vickie looked surprised, and even Edge looked surprised. He hesitated for a moment, but then shook the hand Machetti held out to him. "What you did manipulative, daring, and slightly crazy… it's something I would've done."

"Yeah, well you didn't, I did," Edge reminded him. "And that's why I'm the World Heavyweight Champion."

"Yeah, and I'm the Royal Rumble Winner," Machetti pointed out, "I was dealing with my own diabolical plan at No Way Out. It went successfully and now, not only am I going to be rid of Randy Orton, but… I'M GOING TO WRESTLEMANIA BABY!"

The fans cheered but were then cut off… MY TIME IS NOW STARTED PLAYING! The fans cheered as the former World Heavyweight Champion John Cena came down the ring, since Machetti's confrontation with Edge hadn't been what the fans had expected, Cena's probably would be. Cena came down to the ring and got in, he cast a quick glance at Machetti then took out his own mic and addressed Edge.

"Thank you," said Cena as he addressed the still cheering crowd. "Thank you for the response. Now you might not like what I have to say next, but I agree with Machetti," Cena addressed Edge, "congratulations. You did it. No one thought you could have pulled it off, and I'll be honest, many superstars would have come down here and been all up in your face and had the Chamber match thrown out, maybe filled some kind of lawsuit, sued the company, had the whole thing shut down so there's no WrestleMania."

"Yeah but, come on John," commented Machetti, "That would be stupid. Not to mention selfish. Look how that turned out of the idiot that tried it."

"You're right," Cena agreed, "that's not me. I'm not gonna do that. How you got in the match last night was irrelevant, the fact of the matter is folks, he got in that match and… and you won. You won fair and square. I can't say that I necessarily I like it, but I'm out here to say congratulations… ladies and gentlemen, your new World Heavyweight Champion, Edge, the Rate R Superstar." This earned a loud chorus of boos from the crowd.

"Oh come on Cena," said Machetti, "you can do better than that. Say it with feeling. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, YOUR NEW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION… EDGE!!" The time the boos were even louder Edge was glaring at Machetti for subjecting him to the audience's obvious dislike. "Oh well, we tried, sorry Edgy."

"That aside, what Edge was saying when he came out here is true, the 'R' in Rated R Superstar stands for so many many things. Like Remarkable."

"Resilient," supplied Machetti.

"Really, really lucky," continued Cena.

"Revolutionary," offered Machetti.

"Right place, right time," stated Cena.

"Re – wait a minute… yours don't sound very complementary," commented Machetti.

"That's the point," Cena told him.

"OH!" exclaimed Machetti. "Well, in that case, there's Rotten… Royal pain in the ass… Reeks of bad cologne… and Really needs a shower… take the hint Edgy…"

Cena smiled at Machetti's antics then turned to Edge, "Then there's my favorite…" Cena's expression turned serious, "…REMATCH!" The fans popped loudly, Cena and Edge had fought in countless epic matches and it looked like another one was going to take place now. Cena had his rematch clause after losing his championship in the Elimination Chamber.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold your horses!" Edge cut in. "John, maybe you didn't hear me, but last night I competed in not one, but two, TWO, Elimination Chamber matches. Nobody, nobody has ever done that. I'm not competing tonight, I'm may not compete for a week, maybe a month. If you wanna see me and my lovely wife Vickie Guerrero, we'll be on Smackdown."

"Oh, well that's good for me then," commented Machetti. "You see Edge, you're a Champion, and the point of being champion is defending your championship to prove you're the best in the industry. As far as I'm concerned, I've got a title match at WrestleMania, and lucky for me, both you, and Triple H are Smackdown Superstars. I can take my time, and take my pick between either of you. The way I see it, you'll wanna get Cena out of the way as soon as you can, because you might survive having both of us after your title."

"Is that a threat?" challenged Edge.

"No, I'm just pointing out that I'm the official Royal Rumble Winner," explained Machetti. "And Cena has a rematch. IF I decide I want your championship, you'll have to deal with two contenders that have match clauses that you can't refute."

"He does have a point," agreed Cena. "You're right, you did fight in two Elimination Chambers, no one's ever done that. I don't want you to have any excuses I want you to be healthy. Go back to Smackdown tell Festus and Funaki I said 'hello' and you do whatever is you guys do together." Cena grimaced at that, "I just had some thoughts and threw up in my mouth a little bit."

"Cena, that's nothing," said Machetti. "You don't have to witness Edge and his 'lovely wife' and their make out sessions. It really is quite sickening. It's gotten to the point where I just block it out, and wave it off as one of the down sides to this job."

"But uh, the point is, the point is," continued Cena, he gestured to Vickie, "You yourself said that officially he is the World Heavyweight Champion, and… officially I do have a rematch."

"Wow, you two are comedians," Edge commented sarcastically, "What comedy club are your performing in later tonight?"

"We just have a lot of material," replied Machetti, "I mean look at you and your… wife."

"Just shut up," snapped Edge. "Do I need to remind you of the history I have with both of you? Cena, do your remember when I cashed in the Money in the Bank and took your WWE Championship?"

"Edge, do you remember when I cashed in the Money in the Bank and took your World Heavyweight Championship?"

"Well, do you remember less than a month later how I beat you and Batista in the same match to win it back?"

"Do you remember how you lost it one night later to CM Punk?"

Edge suddenly realized that he did NOT want to banter with Machetti, he quickly set his sights on another target. "Cena, you can talk about a rematch all you want, but that doesn't change the fact that… THE CHAMP… IS… HERE!" Edge mocked Cena by doing the 'You Can't See Me' gesture.

Edge smiled and pushed passed Cena, but Cena suddenly reached out and grabbed Edge's shoulder and spun him around, then turned around and glared at him. Machetti discretely backed out of the way.

"You try to hide, I'll find you," Cena told Edge. "You try to run, I'll catch you. We're gonna fight, and I'm gonna hurt you."

Edge stared at Cena, not sure of what to make of him, but just then, MACHETTI RAN IN AND TOOK DOWN EDGE WITH A SPINNING WHEEL KICK!! Vickie screamed at Machetti and Cena backed out of the way while Machetti crouched down next to Edge.

"Keep your eyes on the prize," lectured Machetti. "You're wearing that belt, you've got a bull's eye on your chest. And just like tonight, just when you think you're done with Cena… MAYBE I'll come and take the title from the winner. That… WAS a threat."

Riot Time hit and Machetti stood up and stared across the ring at Cena, he smirked and did a 'You Can't See Me' of his own, "That goes for you too," he said before he quickly left the ring and headed to the back. Cena stood in the ring and glanced down at Edge who had sat up and was being tended to by his wife. The cameras faded and Raw went to commercial break. The Punk/Cryme Tyme vs. Regal/Priceless 6-Man Tag Match was up after the break.

---x---

Zack made his way through the backstage hallways during the commercial break and eventually knocked on a door.

"Come in," called out a voice from inside.

Zack let himself into the 'General Manager's Office' where Stephanie and Shane McMahon were waiting for him. "You go here quickly," commented Shane.

"Well, I came straight here," replied Zack with a shrug.

"While we're waiting, there was something we wanted to run by you," said Stephanie. "Your Klondike Bar plug on last week's Smackdown got a lot of publicity."

"So much publicity, that Klondike actually got in touch with us," continued Shane. "They want you to be their spokesperson and do a few commercials for them."

"Like with Cena and Gillette Fusion?" questioned Zack.

"Almost exactly like that," answered Stephanie, "only with ice cream. Also you'll probably be doing something crazy… which we assured them would be no problem with you."

"How crazy are we talking?" asked Zack, "And not to sound selfish but what exactly do I get out of this spokesperson thing?"

"You'll get paid for every commercial you film," explained Shane. "Depending on how well they do, you may get asked to do more."

"It also seems like a great way to promote you heading into WrestleMania," said Stephanie.

Zack shrugged and seemed uncertain, "It sounds tempting…"

Shane smiled then added, "They also mentioned free ice cream."

"I'LL DO IT!" exclaimed Zack.

"Something tells me you'll have no problem getting into character," remarked Stephanie, causing Zack to smile sheepishly.

"We'll clear your House Show Schedule for the next two weeks," Shane told him. "This way, you can start filming immediately, and hopefully the commercials will air before WrestleMania."

"For the record, I'm a Professional Wrestler, not an actor," resolved Zack. "No matter what comes of this spokesman gig, this company will always come first."

"That's what we like to hear," replied Shane. "Now, we have a segment to do in a few minutes, get ready."

"Come on, I'm always ready," Zack reminded them as he quickly shifted into his 'Machetti' persona'.

"That's why I like working with you," said Shane.

---x---

The 6-Man Tag Match had ended when DiBiase pinned JTG for the win, the cameras then went to the back and showed Machetti, Shane, and Stephanie in the General Manager's office.

"So, as agreed, I did my part," Machetti reminded the McMahon's. "Last night, I beat Randy Orton and now I'm the Official Royal Rumble Winner, all he's got now is a mental disorder."

"Now we can graciously get him the 'help' he needs and keep him out of action until he safe for other superstars to be around," agreed Shane. "And that won't be until well after WrestleMania, the show he tried to shut down."

"As for tonight," said Stephanie, "I've extended an invitation for Randy Orton to meet Shane and I out in the ring, face-to-face, so we can publicly deal with his problem."

"Be careful out there," advised Machetti, "I wouldn't put anything passed Orton. If it'll help, I'll detain Rhodes and DiBiase so you'll only have Orton to deal with."

"That's probably for the best," replied Stephanie, "but after tonight, our business relationship is over. You'll be back on Smackdown annoying Vickie Guerrero and the two World Champions."

"Do you plan on dealing with the lack of a World Champion on Raw?" questioned Machetti.

"Once Orton's gone, then as Raw General Manager, I'll deal with the other problems," decided Stephanie.

"Well then, good luck out there tonight," advised Machetti, "I'll go find Rhodes and DiBiase and get rid of them."

With that Machetti stood up and headed to the door then left the office, leaving Shane and Stephanie alone as Raw went to a commercial break.

---x---

Raw was still live following the Chris Jericho segment the cameras went backstage and showed Todd Grisham. "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, Randy Orton!" The camera panned to the side to show a frustrated Randy Orton standing next to Todd Grisham. "Randy, the entire WWE Roster is still abuzz over the outcome of your match with Machetti at No Way Out. Now the McMahon's want to publicly address you tonight on Raw, I just wanted to get your thoughts on that."

"You want my thoughts?" asked Orton. "Last night Machetti proved that he could catch me by surprise and get a quick pin. Because of that quick pin, Machetti won last night and I lost, the McMahon's are now free to 'deal' with me. I'm Randy Orton a third generation superstar, I don't run away and I don't beg for anything. Tonight, I'm going to go out there and I'm going to show them what kind of mistake they'd be making by taking a superstar of my caliber off of the air and I'm going to do what I can to keep my job." Orton promptly turned and walked away, leaving Grisham on his own as the camera faded and Raw went to commercial break.

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True to his word, Machetti had kept Rhodes and DiBiase from going out to the ring, so Orton had gone out on his own to confront the McMahon's. Unfortunately for the McMahon's, things did not go as planned. Orton was like a cornered animal, he saw no other way to escape his situation than with violence. Just like with his father, when Shane was about to tell Orton he was suspended, Orton nailed him with an RKO. Before Stephanie or anyone else could do anything, Orton rushed Shane and punted him in the head. Stephanie was so shocked by the attack on her brother she didn't say anything to Orton, and was so caught up checking on him, that she didn't notice Orton until it was too late, and was given an RKO of her own.

Orton had just taken out Shane and Stephanie McMahon, and since they hadn't had the chance to suspend him, he was still 'technically' an active superstar on the Raw Roster. The crowd booed Orton and his underhanded tactics while medics attended to the McMahon's. But then they cheered when, not Machetti but, Triple H ran out from the back to check on his the McMahon's A.K.A. his wife and brother-in-law. Orton quickly bailed out of the ring and headed to the back, while Triple H gave him a glare that promised pain as Raw went off the air. Orton had found a loophole at the cost of the McMahon's.

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Smackdown was airing from Portland Oregon and in the opening segment World Champion Edge had been confronted and laid out by Jeff Hardy. The cameras went backstage to Vickie Guerrero's office, there was a knock on the door and Vickie called out, "Come in!"

"Knizock, knizock," came the voice of Kizarny as he entered the office and waved his arms around in front of the General Manager.

"What!?" questioned Vickie, looking confused.

Kizarny knocked himself on the forehead and repeated his earlier statement, "Knizock, knizock."

"Who's there?" asked Machetti as he wandered into the room and stood beside Kizarny, dressed in street clothes. "Who the hell are you?"

"I am Kizarny," answered Kizarny. "Mizy fizirst mizatch wizas lizast mizonth. Whizere hizave yizou bizeen?"

"Oh, I get it!" exclaimed Machetti, he smiled and replied, "I… am… Machizetti, Rizoyal Rizumble Wizinner. Izi lizike… Klizondike Bizars."

Kizarny gave Machetti an odd look, "Yizou izare strizange," he told him.

"Hizello Pizot, Izi izam Kizettle," replied Machetti.

Kizarny smiled but suddenly Edge barged in, "Get out of here, get out!" he snapped at Machetti and Kizarny, the latter of the two followed his demand but Machetti stayed where he was.

"Bizut Izi… jizust… gizot hizere," said Machetti.

"What the hell are you smoking?" asked Edge. "Speak English!"

"But I just got here," repeated Machetti.

"Too bad!" growled Edge.

"Aww… did Jeff Hardy hurt your feeling when he insulted you?" mocked Machetti.

"That bastard attacked me!" exclaimed Edge.

"Yeah, how dare he!" agreed Machetti. "Who does that jerk think he is!? How could he go out to the ring, confront you, insult you, and beat the crap out of you!? I WAS GONNA DO THAT!"

"BOTH OF YOU SHUT UP!" yelled Vickie.

"Sizorry," apologized Machetti.

"Edge sweetie, what do you want?" asked Vickie.

"Jeff Hardy claimed I was your puppet," explained Edge, behind Edge's back Machetti raised his hands and wiggled his fingers as if he was controlling a marionette. "I wanna teach that punk a lesson on the ring tonight."

"Yes, dance puppet, dance!" Machetti called out in a creepy voice.

"What'd you say!?" demanded Edge.

"You're doing what he wants you to do," replied Machetti. "You're giving him a match. Hopefully it won't be a title match, otherwise you'll lose that belt before WrestleMania."

"Of course its not gonna be for the title, that'd be stupid," said Edge.

"I'll make that match," Vickie decided, "and I'm also making another match. Machetti, tonight you're going to face the man that put you out of action a few months back… the Big Show. There are no McMahon's to save you now."

Out in the audience the crowd booed. Machetti shook his head, "That was in bad taste," he commented. "Now, if you'll excuse me, my girlfriend has a tag match up next and I promised I'd manage her." With that Machetti ran out of the room, seemingly not intimidated by his upcoming match with the Big Show.

---x---

(A/N: Remember folks, in my world Eve hasn't had her in-ring debut yet.. Her first match was supposed to be last week, but instead Maria won the Divas Championship.)

The cameras cut and showed WWE Divas Champion Maria and Eve Torres heading towards the ring for their Divas Tag Match against Michelle and Maryse, a tough fight for the in-ring debut of Eve.

"Are you sure this is a good idea?" asked Eve who seemed nervous.

"I needed a partner, and you had to have your first match sooner or later," replied Maria. "Don't worry, you're just a little nervous. Besides, Michelle and Maryse aren't after you, they want me. Well, they both want this…" Maria gestured to her title belt.

"But what if they use me to send a message, or to one-up each other?" questioned Eve. "Maryse still has her title rematch, but Michelle made it clear that she wants your title."

Machetti suddenly ran on screen and stopped next to the two divas, he bent over and panted as he caught his breath after running all the way here, "I'm… here," he gasped.

"I was getting worried," admitted Maria. "What're we supposed to do?"

"Isn't it obvious?" asked Machetti. "Both Michelle and Maryse want your Divas Championship."

"How does that help?" inquired Maria.

"They both want to prove that they're better than their partner and that they deserve to be Number One Contender," explained Machetti. "They're not going to be working like a cohesive unit and will inevitably clash at one point. You just need to pick your spot and take advantage while they're distracted with each other. It may seem a little underhanded, but if the opportunity presents itself, you need to take it."

"Wow, I was wrong about you," realized Eve. "Everyone always said that you were crazy… but you know what you're doing."

Machetti got a smug look on his face, "Of course, there's a method to the madness. Now come on, you two have a match to win." Machetti headed off and Eve and Maria followed after him, seemingly more confident. The cameras cut to the ring for the match.

---x---

Not Enough for Me played and Michelle McCool came out from the back to a small amount of heat from the crowd. The bell rang as Michelle made her way down to the ring, "This next bout is a Divas Tag Team Match set for one-fall, approaching the ring first, from Palatka Florida, MICHELLE MCCOOL!!" McCool walked down to the ring and got in, ignoring the fans that didn't seem too pleased to see her. She climbed up onto the middle rope in one corner and posed, then climbed down and faced the entrance ramp, awaiting her partner and her opponents. Pourquoi played and Maryse came out from the back wearing one of her long coats, but no title. "And her tag-team partner, from Montreal Quebec Canada, MARYSE!" Despite her lost title Maryse strutted down to the ring like she was still the best diva on Smackdown. She got in the ring then took special care to glare at Michelle as she flipped her hair. The two 'partner' stared at each other, there was no love lost between them. Maryse had been the one to beat Michelle for the Divas Championship and Michelle and Machetti had distracted Maryse so she lost the Divas Championship. Now they both wanted the title that neither of them had.

She Looks Good sounded through the arena and Eve made her way out from the back to a small pop from the fans. "And the opponents, first from Denver Colorado, EVE TORRES!" Eve ran down the ramp and slapped hands with the fans as she approached the ring, but stopped short of entering. Eve stood in front of the ring and glanced over her shoulder awaiting her partner. She didn't have to wait long, because as soon as her music cut With Legs Like That played and Maria and Machetti came out from the back to the loudest cheers so far. "And her partner, being accompanied by 2009 Royal Rumble Winner Machetti, from Chicago Illinois, she is the Divas Champion, MARIA!!" Maria stood on top of the ramp and blew a kiss to the fans then shrugged off her jacket and headed down the ramp with Machetti walking along beside her, the two of them parted and slapped hands with the fans on both sides of the ramp before they joined Eve in front of the ring. Machetti hopped up onto the ring apron while Eve and Maria went up the steps, Machetti held the ropes opened for the two Divas then hopped off of the apron and took up a spot at ringside. Maria took off her Divas Championship and showed it off to Michelle and Maryse then handed it over to the referee. Maria patted Eve on the shoulder and got out of the ring, while Maryse pushed passed Michelle indicating that she wanted to start. When both teams were situated the referee called for the bell, this match was officially underway.

Eve and Maryse started off and met in the middle of the ring, Eve held up her arms calling for a lock up, but Maryse slapped her across the face. Maryse took a few steps back and seemed pleased with herself for 'insulting the rookie'. But Eve charged at her and tackled her to the mat then hit a series of forearm shots to the face. Maryse was caught off guard but eventually pushed Eve off of her and got up to her feet. Eve got back up and looked ready to continue but Maryse held her face and backed away from the debuting diva. She turned around and tagged in Michelle then got out of the ring. "I suppose if you can't handle her, I'll take over," Michelle taunted her partner as she got in the ring, causing Maryse to glare at her. Michelle approached Eve and held up her arms calling for a lock up of her own, Eve cautiously reached out and locked up with Michelle, who immediately overpowered in inexperienced diva and pushed her back into the ropes. The referee came over and order the two divas to break it up, Michelle reluctantly released Eve and backed away, but while she did Machetti hopped up onto the ring apron and whispered something to Eve while she leaned back against the ropes. Eve nodded then pushed away from the ropes and met Michelle in the middle of the ring, she held up her arms, third time's the charm. Michelle cast as wary glance in Machetti's direction then locked up with Eve, but before she could overpower her, Eve shot out her leg and kneed Michelle in the stomach, Michelle doubled over and Eve grabbed her with a side headlock then fell backwards, DDT! Eve quickly rolled Michelle onto her back and went for a pin, ONE… TW—Michelle kicked out.

Michelle rolled away from Eve and sat up, but instead of glaring at the Diva that had just DDT-ed her, she glared at Machetti who had clearly been the one to tell Eve what to do in that situation. Michelle got up and faced Eve and pointedly ignored the smug look on her partner's face. Eve charged at Michelle but Michelle suddenly dropped down AND CAUGHT HER WITH A DROP TOE HOLD! Eve hit the mat face-first, but Michelle quickly grabbed one of Eve's legs and yanked her up off of the mat before slammed her knee down into the canvas, KNEE SMASH! Eve rolled over and held her leg while Michelle lashed out her own leg and stomped on Eve's knee. Eve kicked at Michelle with her good leg and rolled away to the ropes, Michelle held up her arms and showed the referee that she wasn't going to go after Eve while she was in ropes. Eve stood up, but the second she did Michelle grabbed her and pushed her back into the ropes then whipped her across the ring. Eve bounced off of the ropes and came back AND HIT MICHELLE WITH A FLYING FOREARM! Michelle was caught off guard and staggered backwards into the ropes, MARYSE SLAPPED HER ON THE BACK! Michelle whirled around in surprise to see Maryse smirking at her, "My turn," she said she stepped through the ropes and got in the ring. Michelle glared at her partner, then at Eve, before she got out of the ring and took her place on the ring apron.

Maryse approached Eve, who was feeling pretty good having gotten the better of Michelle on two occasions. But Maryse lashed out her leg and suddenly kicked Eve in the mid-section, Maryse grabbed Eve with a side headlock and flipped her hair, while Machetti called out, "DROP!" Eve did what she was told and dropped down onto her knees, causing Maryse to go staggering backwards, Eve rushed at Maryse, but Maryse caught her, swung her around, and drove her down onto her knee, SWINGING SIDE-BACKBREAKER! Maryse stood back up and flipped her hair before she held out her arm and dropped down on Eve, ELBOW DROP! Maryse rolled Eve onto her back then hooked her leg for a pin, ONE… TWO… THR—EVE KICKED OUT! In the corner Maria applauded and cheered Eve on, Maryse glared at her then stood up and pulled Eve up to her feet. Maryse booted Eve in the stomach, doubling her over, then moved a few steps to the side before she ran at Eve and flipped over her and drove Eve down to the mat, RUNNING NECKBREAKER! Maryse hooked Eve's legs and again went for a pin, ONE… TWO… THR—EVE KICKED OUT AGAIN!!

Maryse looked a little aggravated that she couldn't put away the rookie but shook if off then got up and pulled Eve to her feet. Maryse whipped Eve across the ring and into the ropes, BUT EVE HELD ON! Maryse rushed at Eve AND CLOTHESLINED HER OUT OF THE RING! Eve went over the top rope and went crashing down to the floor, Michelle got off of the apron and slowly approached the downed diva. The referee shouted at Michelle from the ring, not to get involved and that she wasn't the legal member of her team, but it didn't look like she cared. Eve staggered back up to her feet and found herself facing Michelle who had a smug grin on her face. Eve backed away but bumped into Maryse who had gotten out of the ring and was now standing behind her. Eve was trapped between the two blonde divas and it didn't look like this would end well. Suddenly Maria ran across the ring and dove through the ropes, SUICIDE DIVE ONTO ALL THREE DIVAS! The four competitors went crashing down the floor while Machetti stood on the other side of the ring with a big grin on his face, she had taken out her own partner, but that was definitely something Machetti would have done.

Maria staggered up off of the floor and once she had regained her bearings she helped Eve back up. Eve looked a little confused by Maria taking her out with their opponents, but soon got over it as the two divas got back in the ring, leaving the two blonde divas down on the floor on the outside. The referee ordered Maria and Eve to keep back and stood by the ropes waiting for the other to divas to get back up. While the referee and opposing team was distracted Machetti climbed up onto the ring apron and called Maria and Eve over, he whispered instructions to them and pointed to the other side of the ring where Maryse and Michelle were just getting back up. But they didn't seem to be in a hurry to get back in the ring. "That was all your fault!" snapped Michelle, "If you had stayed in the ring, she wouldn't have caught us off guard!" "My fault?" repeated Maryse, "I was supposed to be fighting her, not you. You couldn't even handle her." While the two blondes were distracted Eve approached the ropes then dropped down on all fours in front of them. Maria went running across the ring then jumped on Eve's back and launched herself off of her partner, over the top rope, and onto the two divas on the outside, VAULTING BODY PRESS! Maria, Maryse, and Michelle all went down, while Eve was left alone in the ring, but she quickly got back up and slipped out of the ring, then pulled Maryse up and rolled her into the ring, then attempted to capitalize on the damage Maria had done and went for a pin, ONE… TWO… TH—BUT MARYSE KICKED OUT!

On the outside Maria and Michelle had gotten back up, Michelle didn't seem to like the fact that Maria had just caught her off guard TWICE! But before the conflict could escalate Machetti ran around the ring and pushed his way in between the two divas. The referee actually looked relieved to see that Machetti was getting involved and watched as he escorted Maria back around the corner, what he didn't notice was Machetti whispered something to Maria. An angry Michelle was left on the other side of the ring with no one to take her anger out on, she glared across the ring at Machetti then climbed up onto the ring apron and called out to her partner as Eve pulled her up to her feet and whipped her into an empty corner. Eve rushed at Maryse TURNBUCKLE CLOTHESLI—BUT MARYSE CAUGHT HER WITH A BOOT TO THE FACE!! Eve went staggering backwards and looked groggy, but then Maryse ran out of the corner, AND LEVELED EVE WITH A CLOTHESLINE!! Maryse rolled over and covered Eve then hooked her leg for a pin, ONE… TWO… TH—EVE KICKED OUT!!

In the corner Michelle held out her arm and called out, "Tag me!" Maryse stood up and stared down at Eve for a moment, then shrugged and walked to the corner where she tagged in her partner. Michelle got in the ring and Maryse was about to get out when she called over her shoulder, "Hopefully you can handle her this time." Michelle, who was intent on working some of her frustrations out on Eve, who was slowly getting up, turned to face Maryse, "You think you're better than me? Watch this!" she challenged Maryse, BUT EVE SUDDENLY HIT HER FROM BEHIND! Michelle went staggering forward AND KNOCKED MARYSE OFF OF THE APRON!! Michelle looked surprised that she had just – inadvertently – taken out her own partner, Eve grabbed Michelle from behind and quickly rolled her up, ONE… TWO…TH—Michelle got over her momentary surprise and managed to kick out before the rookie diva could pin her. Michelle rolled away from Eve and got back up, looking to keep her advantage Eve charged at Michelle, AND RAN INTO A BIG BOOT! Eve was stopped in her tracks and went crashing down to the mat, Michelle simply dropped down on top of her and hooked her leg for a pin, ONE… TWO… THRE—EVE BARELY KICKED OUT!!

Michelle got up and pulled Eve off of the mat, but at the same time, Maryse climbed back onto the apron and yelled at Michelle, "You knocked me off the apron you (she said something in French that was probably insulting)!" Michelle didn't exactly know what Maryse was calling her, but she was going to demonstrate what she thought of her 'partner' on her opponent. Michelle whipped Eve across the ring and into the ropes, Eve bounced off and suddenly jumped up into the air AND CAUGHT MICHELLE WITH A RUNNING CROSSBODY!! Both divas were down in the middle of the ring, Eve slowly rolled over and started crawling towards Maria, looking to finally tag her partner in, at the same time Michelle fought up off of the mat and turned to face her own partner and wondered if she wanted to tag her in. Maryse made the decision for her and tagged herself in, BY SLAPPING MICHELLE ACROSS THE FACE! On the other side of the ring, EVE TAGGED MARIA! Maria got in the ring and ran across it and dropkicked Michelle in the back, MICHELLE KNOCKED MARYSE OFF THE APRON… AGAIN! Michelle staggered out of the corner and held her head, which had been knocked into Maryse's, but Maria booted her in the stomach then grabbed her, AND PLANTED HER WITH A DDT! Maria rolled Michelle onto her back but the referee shook his head at her and pointed out of the ring at Maryse, who was just getting back up. Maryse was the legal diva, not Michelle.

Seeing her partner's predicament, Eve got off of the ring apron and decided to help, she quickly ran around the ring and pulled Maryse up off of the floor and rolled her into the ring. Maria glanced down at Maryse and Michelle who were both getting back up and quickly backed up into the blonde team's empty corner, she hoisted herself up onto the middle rope then waited for her opponents to stand up. When they got to their feet Michelle and Maryse stared at each other for a moment before Michelle pointed over Maryse's shoulder and called out, "LOOK OUT!" But before Maryse could react, Maria launched out of her corner and caught her with one arm from behind, DIVING BULLDOG ON MARYSE! But Maria kept going and used her free arm to take down Michelle, FLYING CLOTHESLINE ON MICHELLE!! Maria took down both divas with a surprising combination move, rolled over to Maryse and covered her for a pin, ONE… TWO… THREE! MARIA GOT THE PIN!!

Legs Like That sounded through the arena as Maria got off of Maryse and ran around the ring looking proud of herself, Eve quickly joined her in the ring and the two divas shared a hug before going to opposite corners and posing for the fans. "Ladies and gentlemen, here are your winners, MARIA AND EVE!!" As Eve and Maria climbed down out of their corners Machetti slid in the ring and handed the Divas Championship to Maria, who grabbed the title then quickly hugged him and wrapped her legs around his waist. Machetti held on to Maria and smiled as he carried her over to the ropes, out of the ring, and down the steps. Machetti finally put Maria down when they were joined by Eve at ringside, then the three of them headed up the ramp towards the back. But in the ring, Michelle and Maryse had gotten up, and with their opponent's gone they directed their frustrations at each other. "Nice teamwork!" taunted Maryse. "Shut up! I could've beaten either of them on my own, it's your fault!" countered Michelle. Maryse responded by slapping Michelle across the face, Michelle stood there and played it off like it was no big deal, then tackled Maryse down to the mat. The two divas rolled around in the ring, CATFIGHT! CATFIGHT! The referee finally managed to pull Michelle off of Maryse, who quickly rolled out of the ring and glared at her 'partner' from ringside. At the top of the ramp Machetti stood in between Maria and Eve and raised their arms. Smackdown went to a commercial break as the three of them headed to the back.

---x---

Smackdown came back from the commercial break and the cameras showed Machetti and Maria walking together backstage. "See, I told you that you'd be alright," Machetti was saying. "The two of them were so caught up with each other that they lost focus on you, all you had to do was pick your spot, which you did, and as a result, you won."

"Now you just have to win," Maria reminded him.

"Speaking of which," commented Machetti as they stopped walking, standing ahead of them was Machetti's opponent for tonight, the Big Show. "I'll handle this," Machetti told Maria as he approached his giant opponent.

"Hey Machetti," greeted Big Show causing Machetti to flinch slightly and put a hand over his face. "I hope you're ready for our match tonight, because the last time we faced each other… it didn't end too well for you, in fact you were suspended."

Rather than respond Machetti held up his index finger in the universal sign for 'hold on a minute' then reached down and started going through his pockets, "Ah-ha," Machetti pulled out a pack of Eclipse gum and held it out to the giant, "Seriously."

Big Show glared at Machetti but still took the gum, "And as far as your comments go," said Machetti, "your breath is the most intimidating part about you. Tonight I'm going to use you to send a giant-sized massage to the rest of the roster: nothing is going to stand in my way of the main event of WrestleMania. Tonight, I'm going to prove that your win a few months back was only on account of the interference on your behalf, and despite your size, it was only a fluke. See ya out there, chump."

Machetti nodded then pushed passed Big Show and headed off down the hallway, "Come on Maria," he called out. Maria quickly ran passed Big Show after Machetti, leaving the giant standing in the hallway staring at the pack of gum Machetti had given him as the cameras faded and went to show the date between the Bella Twins and Miz and Morrison.

---x---

Zack was backstage watching the show from the locker room, having just changed from his street clothes to his ring gear when his cell phone rang in his bag. He fished it out and after checking the caller ID, flipped it opened and answered. "Hey Shane, how's your head?"

"…" Shane McMahon spoke from the other end.

"Yeah, I got in touch with Klondike like you told me to."

"…"

"We're gonna start filming this weekend."

"…"

"Actually, now that you ask, we shared some ideas and I had one for Corporate Headquarters. Maria came up with this design we wanted to use, would it be alright if we shot one of the commercials there?"

"…"

"Yes… I think the design would look alright on a t-shirt. In fact, I have a slogan that goes with it. Wait until you see the logo though, you'll understand it better."

"…"

"Of course, I'll be on my best behavior."

"…"

"Right, I'll talk to you soon, take care."

Zack hung up his phone then went back to watching JR's interview with Triple H.

---x---

Smackdown came back from a commercial break, before it Vickie Guerrero had announced that since Undertaker was on her show, he'd face someone from her show at WrestleMania, he'd be facing Vladimir Kozlov. The fans didn't seem nearly as pleased with that idea as with the prospect of Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels. The cameras were at ringside and the bell rang to get everyone's attention for the Machetti/Big Show Match.

Riot Time hit and Machetti, who had changed into his wrestling gear, came out from the back accompanied by Maria, "Ladies and gentlemen the following contest is scheduled for one-fall, introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by Maria, from Detroit Michigan, weighing two hundred twenty-two pounds, MACHETTI!" Machetti nodded at Maria and ran down the ramp and slid into the ring, he went to the corner and climbed up onto the middle rope and raised his arms up in the air, he got a decent pop from the Portland crowd then backflipped out of the corner and landed in the middle of the ring as a blast of blue pyro shot out of each corner. Maria reached the ring and walked around it to her spot at ringside while Machetti turned to face the entrance ramp and awaited his opponent.

Crank It Up played and Big Show came out from the back and walked out onto the stage, "and the opponent, from Tampa Florida, standing over seven feet tall, weighing four hundred forty-one pounds, THE BIG SHOW!" Big Show walked down the ramp and climbed up onto the ring apron, then stepped over the top rope and got in the ring, he glared across the ring at Machetti, then walked to the ropes and raised his arm for his usual taunt. He turned around to face his opponent while the ring announcer got out of the ring, the referee saw that both competitors were ready and called for the bell, this match was officially underway.

The two competitors circled the ring and sized each other up, Big Show was almost two times the size of Machetti and had the definite strength advantage, but this left Machetti with the advantage in speed. Like with their many encounters in the past, the two of them both knew how to utilize their individual fighting styles in order to overcome their opponent. Big Show charged at Machetti and went to grab him, but Machetti slipped under Big Show's arms and hit a quick kick to the back of Big Show's legs. Big Show held his leg where Machetti had kicked him and turned around to glare at his opponent, who had backed away from him, obviously intent on using a hit and run strategy until he got the giant off of his feet. Big Show slowly approached Machetti and went to grab him again, but again Machetti avoided the giant's grasp and hit a quick kick to the back of his leg. Machetti backed away from Big Show and waited for his opponent's next move. Big Show slowly advanced on Machetti and began backing him into a corner, once Machetti's back was against the turnbuckle Big Show charged, TURNBUCKLE BODY SPLA—Machetti dropped down and rolled passed Big Show, causing the giant to slam into the corner. Machetti shot back up and turned around then went off on Big Show with a series of shots to the stomach. Big Show eventually got fed up and shoved Machetti away from him, sending the smaller superstar rolling backwards across the ring.

Machetti stood back up in the middle of the ring and Big Show once again attempted to back him into a corner so he could get his hands on him, but Machetti was as slippery as an eel and wasn't about to make it easy for the big man to crush him. Big Show once again got Machetti backed into a corner, but instead of recklessly charging like last time, Big Show reached out and shoved Machetti back-first into the turnbuckles. Big Show raised his arm and went to chop Machetti across the chest, but Machetti quickly slipped out of Big Show's grasp and got behind him, he quickly jumped up and dropkicked the big man in the back of his leg, causing the Big Show to drop down to one knee. Machetti was all over Big Show a split-second later and was laying into him with a flurry of punches and elbows, and forearms, and kicks in an attempt to force the giant down to the mat. But Big Show powered back up to his feet and shoved Machetti backwards, causing him to fall on his ass. Big Show went to follow up, but Machetti rolled over to the ropes and quickly got back up, he stood up in front of the ropes and once again waited for his opponent to make the next move. Big Show grew aggravated with the cat and mouse game and charged at Machetti, but Machetti suddenly dropped down and pulled the top rope down with him, Big Show kept going AND FELL OVER THE TOP ROPE AND DOWN TO THE FLOOR!

Big Show fell and landed on his stomach, he slammed his fists on the thinly padded and looked pissed at being humiliated just now. He pushed himself back up and turned to face the ring, only to see Machetti come flying over the top rope, SLINGSHOT SENTO—BIG SHOW REACHED UP AND CAUGHT HIM!! Big Show held onto Machetti and kept him in a seated position on his shoulders, Machetti realized he was in big trouble and began laying into Big Show with a series of closed-fist punches to the forehead. But Machetti's blows didn't seem to affect the giant as he carried Machetti across the ringside area, then swung him to the side, AND SLAMMED HIM BACK-FIRST INTO THE RING POST!! Big Show dropped Machetti down to the floor and watched as he held his back in pain, but the giant didn't give his crafty opponent a moment to recover, he pulled him back up to his feet and dragged him along the side of the ring until he stopped and shoved Machetti backwards, AND SLAMMED HIM BACK-FIRST INTO THE STEEL STEPS!! Machetti hit the steps with a thud and went crumbling down to the ground, on one side of them, Big Show had a satisfied grin, while on the other Maria was staring down at Machetti in horror. Big Show reached down and pulled Machetti up off of the floor by his long hair then lifted him up and rolled him into the ring. Big Show climbed up onto the ring apron and stepped over the top rope, then dropped down on top of Machetti and went for a pin, ONE… TWO…. TH—MACHETTI KICKED OUT!! Big Show stood up and stared down at Machetti, he was only just getting started, but before he could continue his torment, Smackdown cut to a dreaded mid-match commercial break.

---x---

Smackdown came back from the break and Big Show was still firmly in control having worked over Machetti's back during the entire commercial break. Currently Big Show standing on Machetti's back and was using the ropes for additional leverage so he could apply his entire four hundred forty-one pound weight to his opponent's injured back. Machetti was screaming out in pain while Maria was panicking not sure what to do. Sure, Machetti had been through worse and survived, but Big Show was right in front of her applying a sickening amount of pressure to Machetti's back. When the referee threatened to disqualify Big Show for his usage of the ropes the giant finally stepped off of his opponent's back. Machetti groaned as he laid on the mat, but before he could get away Big Show reached down and dragged him up to his feet then whipped him across the ring into the corner. Big Show rushed across the ring and charged Machetti, TURNBUCKLE BODY SPLASH! Big Show's entire four hundred plus pound frame slammed into Machetti and crushed him against the turnbuckles, the ring shook from the impact of Big Show slamming into Machetti. Big Show reached out and held onto Machetti, keeping him on his feet, then pushed him back into the turnbuckles, Big Show raised one hand and brought a finger to his lips, telling everyone to be quiet, then chopped Machetti across the chest. The chop echoed around the arena and everyone in the first tier and a few above could hear it, Big Show grinned then lifted him arm, AND CHOPPED MACHETTI AGAIN! Big Show took a step back and smiled at his handiwork, a bright red hand-sized welt was on Machetti's chest where Big Show had chopped him. Machetti staggered out of the corner into Big Show, who lifted him up and held him beside him, then drove him down back-first onto the mat, SIDEWALK SLAM!! Big Show laid his arm across Machetti's chest for a cover, ONE… TWO… THRE—MACHETTI KICKED OUT!

Seeing the look Maria was giving him, Big Show got up and grinned, "What's the matter? You didn't actually think he was going to win did you?" Big Show reached down and grabbed a big handful of Machetti's hair and pulled him up to his feet, then he grabbed onto Machetti and in one swift movement lifted him up and pressed him over his head, MILITARY PRESS! Maria's eyes went wide as Big Show stood in the middle of ring and held Machetti over ten feet off of the mat. He giant kept Machetti pressed over his head and approached the ropes, THEN THREW MACHETTI OUT OF THE RING!! Machetti went crashing down to the floor with thud, Maria was instantly kneeling at his side checking to see if he was okay. The referee started the ring out count while Big Show walked over to the ropes and leaned against them as he watched his opponent and waited to see if he would be able to get back in the ring on time. ONE! TWO! THREE! Machetti was still down and despite Maria's best efforts, still seemed out of it. FOUR! FIVE! SIX! He finally started to stir and groaned as he sat up, hoping to motivate Machetti to get back up and get into the ring the fans charted cheering and started chanting Machetti's name, Machetti! Machetti! SEVEN! Seeing how Machetti was having so much trouble, Maria took matters into her own hands and pulled Machetti up off of the floor and up to his feet. Both Big Show and the referee frowned at Maria's interference, but she hadn't exactly attacked anyone. EIGHT! "Quick, get in the ring, you idiot!" scolded Maria, who wasn't quite sure why she was encouraging Machetti to get back in the ring, where Big Show would once again attempt to crush him. NINE! Machetti suddenly darted forward and slid under the bottom rope, TE—HE MADE IT!

But the second Machetti slid in the ring, Big Show was on him and was stomping on the smaller superstar's injured back with his huge size 22 5E boots. Big Show eventually reached down and once again pulled his opponent up to his feet. Show grabbed his groggy opponent by the throat with both hands and lifted him up off of the mat, then chucked him all the way across the ring, CHOKE TOSS!! Machetti went flying and landed hard on his back, he kept rolling, but managed to grab onto the bottom rope to keep from rolling out of the ring. Maria ran around the ring and knelt down near Machetti to see if he was alright. Big Show stood in the middle of the ring and grinned, the end of the match was in sight, he raised his arm up in the air behind him and called for a chokeslam. Maria, didn't seem to like that idea and climbed up onto the ring apron and told Big Show that he had done enough. The referee went over to Maria and ordered her to get off of the apron, and keep out of the match. Big Show kept his eyes locked on Machetti who's back was to him as he slowly got back up. But what neither Big Show nor the referee noticed was that Maria was missing something. The referee was still trying to get Maria to get off of the ring apron when Machetti finally got back up to his feet, Big Show took a step forward so Machetti was in arms length then waited for him to turn around, GOOZ—MACHETTI BLASTED BIG SHOW WITH THE DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP!!

Big Show was caught off guard and dropped down to one knee, Machetti quickly dropped Maria's championship and slid it out of the ring with his foot. He took a few steps back then ran at Big Show and did a running backflip, as he came down he grabbed Big Show and drove his head down to the mat, RUNNING SHOOTING STAR PRESS DDT!! Maria finally got down off of the apron while Big Show pushed himself up onto his hands and knees and struggled to get back up. Machetti backed up into the corner then rushed at Big Show and did a handspring followed by a flip then landed leg-first on the back of Big Show's neck, HANDSPRING LEG DROP! Big Show was driven down into the mat and rolled onto his back, Machetti quickly ran to the ropes and bounced off then came back with a handspring and a backflip, HANDSPRING MOONSAULT! Machetti bounced off of Big Show and rolled away, then got back up to his feet and once again ran across the ring, jumping over the downed giant as he went. He ran to the rope and jumped up onto the top one, then backflipped across the ring, SPRINGBOARD MOONSAULT! Machetti splashed down on top of Big Show and rolled off of him. He slowly staggered back up to his feet and went to the corner, he pulled himself up onto the top rope and glanced over his shoulder at Big Show, he was still down. Machetti backflipped out of the corner and went completely around before slamming down back-first on top of the giant, SUICIDE BOMB!! Machetti rolled away from Big Show and held his back in pain, landing back-first on his opponent after having that part of him picked apart during the match wasn't one of his better ideas. Machetti crawled over to Big Show and dove on top of him for a cover, ONE… TWO… THREE! HE GOT IT!

Riot Time hit and Machetti quickly rolled over to the ropes and slid out of the ring, he knelt next to her ring and held his back, until Maria, who had gotten her title back, helped him up and raised his arm up into the air. "Ladies and gentlemen here is your winner, MACHETTI!" In the ring, Big Show sat up and realized what had just happened, after being in control for most of the match, he had been outsmarted and then beaten by a superstar half his size. Big Show stood up and glared out of the ring at Machetti, who stood with Maria at the bottom of the entrance ramp, the giant looked pissed, but Machetti didn't seem to notice, he smirked at Big Show and called out, "Gotcha!" Machetti and Maria headed up the ramp, leaving the angry giant in the ring as the cameras cut and showed a Gail Kim Promo, then Smackdown went to a commercial break, Edge versus Jeff Hardy was still to come in the Main Event.

---x---

And there it is, three chapters in three weeks, it's a miracle!

'Till Next Time…

Peace!