The chaos and excitement of Survivor Series continued to reverberate backstage, with everyone buzzing after Big Show's shocking WWE Championship victory over Brock Lesnar, thanks to Paul Heyman's betrayal. Amidst the frenzy, Zlatan Ibrahimović found himself walking through the hallways of Madison Square Garden, his mind still reeling from his earlier confrontation with Triple H.
As Zlatan approached one of the locker rooms, he spotted his good friend Rob Van Dam, who was stretching and getting into the zone for the biggest opportunity of his career—the first-ever Elimination Chamber match for the World Heavyweight Championship. The tension in the room was palpable, but RVD, ever the calm and collected competitor, maintained his zen-like focus.
Zlatan entered the locker room with a supportive grin, catching RVD's attention. "Yo, Zlatan! What's up, man?" RVD greeted him with his signature laid-back attitude, though the intensity of the night was not lost on him.
Zlatan clapped his friend on the shoulder. "Just wanted to check in before you head into that chamber, man. This is your moment. You came close at Unforgiven, and if it weren't for Triple H and his damn sledgehammer, we'd be looking at the World Heavyweight Champion right now."
RVD's face tightened slightly at the mention of Unforgiven, the memories of that night still fresh. He had been inches away from securing the World Heavyweight Title in the Gold Rush tournament final, only for Triple H to smash his dreams with a sledgehammer and take the win. Tonight, he had a chance to rewrite history, but the chamber posed a whole new level of danger.
"Yeah, man," RVD replied, shaking out his arms. "Unforgiven was tough, but tonight… tonight's different. This is the first Elimination Chamber. No sledgehammers, just six men, and the last one standing leaves with the gold."
Zlatan leaned against the wall, his arms folded. "You know, Triple H is out there again, lurking. You've got him, Shawn Michaels, Chris Jericho, Booker T, and Kane. But if anyone can thrive in a match like this, it's you. You've been to the extreme before. This chamber is just another battlefield."
RVD nodded, his expression becoming more serious as he mentally prepared for the challenge ahead. "You're right, bro. I've faced all kinds of danger in my career, but this… it's going to be brutal. But I know I can hang with the best. I've already proven it."
Zlatan smirked. "And you know what? If Triple H tries any of his dirty tricks again… I've got a score to settle with him too. Don't think for a second I'm letting that slide after what he said earlier."
RVD chuckled, appreciating Zlatan's loyalty and fire. "I wouldn't mind seeing you knock that smug grin off his face, but tonight's about taking that title. I'm not letting him stop me again."
Zlatan's expression shifted to one of determination, mirroring his friend's. "Damn right. You've got this, Rob. Just do what you do best—hit hard, move fast, and keep your head in the game."
RVD nodded, his confidence building. "Thanks, Zlatan. I appreciate it, man. And don't worry, when I win that World Heavyweight Championship tonight, we're celebrating."
Zlatan grinned. "You bet we are. Go out there and make history, champ."
With that, Zlatan gave RVD a final pat on the back before leaving the locker room, giving his friend the space he needed to mentally prepare for the Elimination Chamber. As he walked away, Zlatan couldn't help but reflect on his own journey, his run-ins with Triple H, and the shifting landscape of WWE. Tonight, his friend Rob Van Dam had the chance to reach the pinnacle of the industry, and Zlatan had no doubt that RVD was ready for the challenge.
The camera lingered on RVD as he stood in front of his locker, taking a deep breath, ready to walk into the unknown—the Elimination Chamber, where careers could be made or destroyed. But one thing was certain: RVD was ready to give it everything he had.
XXXX
Back in his locker room, Zlatan Ibrahimović sat on a bench, deep in thought after the night's events. The loss of the WWE Tag Team Championships, the heated confrontation with Kurt Angle, and the intense brawl still weighed on his mind. His thoughts were interrupted as the door creaked open, and in walked Trish Stratus, her movements slower than usual after a brutal Hardcore match earlier in the night.
Trish, who had just been patched up after losing the Women's Championship to Victoria, gave a small, tired smile as she took a seat beside Zlatan. "Rough night for both of us," she said, wincing slightly as she adjusted herself.
Zlatan nodded, offering her a bottle of water. "Yeah, you can say that again. But hey, you fought like hell out there. Hardcore matches aren't easy."
Trish smiled appreciatively. "Thanks. You weren't too bad yourself, handling Kurt and keeping it together after everything."
Zlatan chuckled. "Let's just say the night's not over yet." He gestured to the monitor in the corner of the room, where the first-ever Elimination Chamber match for the World Heavyweight Championship was about to start. "You sticking around to watch?"
Trish nodded. "Wouldn't miss it. This match is going to be insane."
As the two settled in, the monitor showed the participants entering the daunting structure. Chris Jericho, Booker T, Kane, Rob Van Dam, Shawn Michaels, and the defending champion, Triple H. The cold steel of the Elimination Chamber gleamed under the arena lights, and the tension was palpable even through the screen.
"This match could change everything," Zlatan remarked, his eyes fixed on the screen. "RVD's out there. He's ready."
Trish, watching intently, responded, "Shawn Michaels too. He's been through hell to get back to this point. If anyone can pull this off, it's him."
The match was as grueling as expected. They watched as each contestant was introduced and locked inside the glass pods, awaiting their turn to enter the unforgiving battlefield. Zlatan and Trish winced in unison as bodies were thrown into the steel chains and glass pods shattered under the pressure of high-impact moves.
"This is brutal," Trish muttered, clutching her side. "I don't know how they're going to walk out of there."
Then came one of the night's most jaw-dropping moments—Rob Van Dam, perched atop one of the pods, looking down at Triple H, who lay prone on the mat. The crowd buzzed with anticipation as RVD launched himself into the air, delivering his signature Five-Star Frog Splash from the top of the pod, crashing down onto the champion.
Zlatan leaned forward, eyes wide with amazement. "Holy shit! RVD just flattened Triple H!"
Trish, equally stunned, covered her mouth in shock. "That's insane. The height on that!"
But the match wasn't over. Despite RVD's spectacular aerial offense, the chamber continued to take its toll on everyone inside. One by one, competitors were eliminated, leaving just Triple H and Shawn Michaels—the two men with the longest history, the deepest rivalry, and the most at stake.
Zlatan and Trish watched in suspense as Shawn Michaels, wearing his old-school brown tights, struggled to his feet, bloodied and bruised but refusing to give in. Triple H, ever the ruthless competitor, went for a second Pedigree to end the match. But in a flash, Shawn countered with a back body drop, sending Triple H crashing to the mat.
The crowd inside Madison Square Garden erupted, and Zlatan and Trish found themselves sitting on the edge of their seats as Shawn Michaels stumbled toward the corner, tuning up the band. The familiar stomping echoed through the arena, and when Triple H finally got to his feet, Shawn unleashed Sweet Chin Music with pinpoint accuracy.
The sound of Shawn's boot connecting with Triple H's jaw was like a gunshot, and the world champion collapsed to the mat. Shawn dropped down, hooking the leg as the referee counted.
"One… two… three!"
Madison Square Garden exploded into cheers, and Trish clapped her hands, wincing slightly from the pain but unable to contain her excitement. "Shawn did it! He's the World Champion again!"
Zlatan grinned, shaking his head in disbelief. "I told Triple H he should worry about Shawn. This is MSG. Anything can happen."
On the screen, Shawn Michaels stood in the middle of the ring, his arms raised in victory, clutching the World Heavyweight Championship. Confetti rained down from the ceiling, and the iconic moment cemented Shawn's comeback in the most spectacular way.
As Shawn celebrated, drenched in emotion, Trish looked over at Zlatan. "That was incredible. It feels like we just witnessed something special."
Zlatan nodded, still staring at the screen. "We did. Shawn Michaels just came back from retirement, survived one of the most brutal matches in WWE history, and won the World Heavyweight Title. It doesn't get more special than that."
The two sat in silence for a moment, reflecting on the night and all the battles that had been fought. It was a night of history-making moments, of betrayals and triumphs. And for Zlatan, it was a reminder that no matter the setbacks, no matter the losses, there was always another chance to rise to the top.
With a final look at the screen, Zlatan stood up. "Shawn may have gotten his redemption tonight, but my story's far from over."
Trish smiled, standing up beside him. "No doubt about that. Let's make sure we're the ones making history next time."
As the two left the locker room, the camera panned back to the monitor, where Shawn Michaels stood tall as the new World Heavyweight Champion, the perfect end to an unforgettable night.
XXXX
The day after Survivor Series, JFK Airport buzzed with activity as travelers hurried to catch their flights. Among the throng of people, two familiar faces found themselves sharing a moment of respite in the bustling terminal.
Trish Stratus, the former WWE Women's champion and a rising star in WWE, sat at a nearby bench with her baggage casually slung over her shoulder. She wore a warm smile and exuded confidence, a testament to her recent success in the world of professional wrestling.
Beside her, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a towering figure with an unmistakable presence, leaned against a pillar. His unruly dark hair and chiseled physique drew attention from passersby, even in a place as busy as JFK. Zlatan, however, seemed remarkably relaxed as he engaged in conversation with Trish.
The two had struck up an unlikely friendship, united by their shared experiences as newcomers to the wrestling world. Trish had transitioned from a career in fitness modeling to become one of WWE's brightest stars, while Zlatan had made the remarkable leap from professional soccer to the squared circle.
Trish chuckled to herself as she recalled her initial impression of seeing zlatan before his debut. "You know, Zlatan, when I first saw you in Montreal, you were this tall guy with a funny accent. I thought you looked like you came straight from the gym."
Zlatan simply grinned in remembrance. "Ah, Trish, I remember that day well. It was my WWE debut, and I was just trying to find my footing in this wild world of wrestling. I suppose I did look like a gym regular, didn't I?"
Trish simply nodded in acknowledgement. "You definitely did. But look at you now, making your mark in the WWE and defending your title at Madison Square Garden. It's quite the journey."
Zlatan is appreciative of Trish's compliment. "And you, Trish, you've become one of the top women's wrestlers in the business. Your hard work and dedication paid off."
Their easy banter was a testament to the camaraderie that had developed between them over the months. Despite their different backgrounds and paths to WWE, they found common ground as outsiders in a world of larger-than-life characters.
As they chatted about their experiences, there was an undeniable spark in the air—a subtle attraction that neither of them had fully acknowledged yet. But for now, they cherished the bond of friendship that had grown between them, knowing that whatever the future held, they had each other's support.
With JFK Airport bustling around them, Trish and Zlatan continued their conversation, their laughter and shared stories filling the air as they looked forward to the next chapter in their respective journeys.
XXXX
Zlatan Ibrahimović, ever a man of his word, leaned against a cold payphone at JFK Airport, fingers fumbling slightly as he pulled out a crumpled piece of paper from his jacket pocket. The numbers scribbled on it led him to a promise he'd made months ago. Survivor Series was behind him, but now he had something important to follow through on. He dialed carefully, each press of the button bringing back memories of that night in Toronto when he'd met the Neidharts.
As the phone rang, the anticipation built in his chest. He hadn't spoken to Natalya since the summer, and now, finally, the time had come to reconnect.
After a few rings, a voice filled with excitement answered on the other end.
"Hello?"
Zlatan smiled, recognizing the voice immediately. "Hey, Natalya, it's Zlatan."
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Natalya Neidhart's eyes widened in surprise as she heard Zlatan's familiar voice. She glanced over at her sisters, Jennifer and Kristen, who were sitting nearby, chatting and laughing. They had been talking about the latest wrestling matches, and now this call added a new layer of excitement.
"Zlatan!" Natalya exclaimed, barely able to contain her joy. "Wow, it's great to hear from you! How have you been?"
Zlatan leaned against the payphone, his smile widening. "I've been good, Natalya. Just wrapped up a crazy night at Survivor Series, and I thought it's about time I kept my promise. I wanted to call and let you know I'm planning to visit Calgary soon and see the Neidharts in person."
On the other end of the line, Natalya was thrilled. She quickly gestured to her sisters, who were now buzzing with excitement. Jennifer, the aspiring gourmet chef of the family, looked especially eager, while Kristen smiled knowingly—this was a big moment.
"That's amazing!" Natalya replied, her voice full of warmth. "We can't wait to have you here. My dad's been following your career since we met you in Toronto. He'll be over the moon to see you."
Zlatan chuckled, feeling the warmth of her words. "I'm looking forward to it too. I'll need some guidance when I get there, though—especially on where to find the best food in Calgary."
Natalya laughed lightly. "Don't worry about that! My sister Jennifer is an aspiring chef. She'll make sure you get a taste of the best food in the city. You'll leave with a full stomach, I guarantee it."
Jennifer, hearing her name mentioned, waved and smiled, though Zlatan couldn't see it. Natalya gave her a wink, enjoying the energy in the room.
Zlatan, impressed, nodded on his end. "That sounds fantastic. I can't wait to meet your family and spend some time with all of you. How about we plan this visit before Armageddon?"
Natalya's excitement grew. "That works perfectly, Zlatan! We'll make sure it's a visit you won't forget."
New York, New York – JFK Airport
As Zlatan leaned against the payphone, a sense of warmth and connection washed over him. He and Natalya continued to chat, working out the finer details of his upcoming visit to Calgary. The Neidharts had already made an impression on him, and the thought of spending time with them felt like the perfect break from the whirlwind that was WWE.
He imagined the picture hanging in the Neidhart living room, the one from Toronto, where he and the Neidhart sisters smiled brightly. It was a reminder of the bond they had formed that night, one that transcended the ring. And now, with this trip to Calgary, that connection would only grow stronger.
Zlatan hung up the phone, feeling lighter. His path in the WWE had been full of battles, confrontations, and victories—but moments like these, with real connections and genuine friendships, grounded him.
As the call ended, he knew that this visit to Calgary would be more than just a reunion. It would be a reminder of the importance of the bonds formed outside the squared circle and the friends who support you along the way.
With a renewed sense of purpose, Zlatan strolled through the terminal, ready for the next chapter—both in and out of the ring.
XXXX
November 21, 2002.
Hartford, Connecticut.
The arena was buzzing with anticipation as SmackDown kicked off with its usual explosive energy. The crowd in Hartford, Connecticut, was ready for another night of action, and the WWE Universe was still reeling from the aftermath of Survivor Series just a few days prior. Tension hung in the air, and the fans could sense that something big was about to go down.
Suddenly, the familiar sounds of "The Lion" by RZA and GZA reverberated through the speakers, sending a shockwave of excitement through the arena. The crowd erupted into cheers as Zlatan Ibrahimović, the Lion of Rosengård, made his way onto the stage. But this time, there was no flash or bravado in his entrance—just a focused, determined presence.
Zlatan wasn't wearing his usual wrestling gear tonight. Dressed in street clothes—a leather jacket, jeans, and boots—he looked like a man on a mission. His brow furrowed with intensity, and his body language said it all. Tonight wasn't about flashy moves or high-flying action. Tonight was about unfinished business.
Michael Cole, at ringside, leaned into his microphone as the crowd's cheers continued to swell. "Ladies and gentlemen, here comes the Lion of Rosengård, Zlatan Ibrahimović. And after what happened at Survivor Series, you can bet he's got something to say!"
Tazz, sitting next to Cole, nodded in agreement. "That's right, Cole. Zlatan lost the WWE Tag Team Championships at Survivor Series after a brutal contest with Edge and Rey Mysterio. But the real story came after the match—Zlatan and Kurt Angle went at it. And now, it looks like Zlatan's about to address the fallout from that confrontation."
Zlatan marched down the ramp, his eyes locked on the ring, unfazed by the crowd's adoration. He wasn't here for fanfare—he was here with a purpose. He slid under the bottom rope and stood in the center of the ring, grabbing a microphone from a ringside crew member. The crowd quieted, eager to hear what the Swedish powerhouse had to say.
Taking a deep breath, Zlatan brought the microphone to his lips, his voice low but commanding. "Sunday night at Survivor Series… things didn't go as planned." The crowd murmured in agreement, clearly remembering the chaotic events. "Edge and Rey Mysterio won the WWE Tag Team Championships, and I can live with that. They earned it."
He paused, pacing around the ring, his eyes burning with frustration. "But what I can't live with is the fact that after we lost, Kurt Angle decided to point the finger—at me. He said I was the reason we're no longer champions. He said Idropped the ball."
Zlatan's jaw clenched, and the tension in his voice was palpable. "But let's not forget something, Kurt. You're the one who elbowed me in the chest when you tried to break up the pin. You got caught up in the moment, and that cost us the match."
The crowd reacted to Zlatan's words, knowing full well that the tension between him and Angle had been brewing for months. Zlatan stopped pacing and stared directly into the camera, addressing Kurt Angle wherever he was.
"You think you're the only one who's hungry for gold, Kurt? You think you're the only one who's got pride? I earnedthose titles with you, and I'll be damned if you think you can blame me for losing them."
Zlatan took a breath, calming his tone slightly, but his determination was as sharp as ever. "But I get it. You and I, we've been walking a thin line for months. You've got your Olympic gold medal. You've got your ego. But now… now it's time to settle this."
The crowd roared, sensing where Zlatan was going with this. He wasn't just angry—he was challenging Kurt Angle.
"So here's the deal, Kurt," Zlatan said, pointing at the camera with intensity. "I don't care about the no-physicality rule anymore. It's time to stop pretending we can work together. You and me, one-on-one, let's finish this."
Michael Cole's voice filled with excitement as he leaned into his mic. "Zlatan Ibrahimović is laying down the challenge to Kurt Angle! He wants to settle this once and for all!"
Tazz chimed in, equally pumped. "This has been boiling over for months, Cole! If these two finally get in the ring, it's gonna be explosive!"
Zlatan stood in the middle of the ring, the crowd chanting his name as he lowered the mic, waiting for a response from the Olympic gold medalist. There was no turning back now—he had thrown down the gauntlet, and it was only a matter of time before Kurt Angle answered the call.
As the echo of Zlatan's challenge hung in the air, it didn't take long for the familiar, unmistakable sound of "Medal" to hit the arena. The crowd erupted into boos and jeers, and the now-iconic "You suck!" chants rang through the arena as Kurt Angle, the Olympic gold medalist, made his way onto the stage. Dressed in his signature red, white, and blue tracksuit, his face was etched with intensity. There was no smile, no playful arrogance tonight—Kurt Angle was all business.
Michael Cole, voice rising with anticipation, exclaimed, "Here comes Kurt Angle! You knew he wouldn't let Zlatan's challenge go unanswered, Tazz!"
Tazz added, "Oh, it's on now, Cole. These two are about to go face-to-face, and after what happened at Survivor Series, there's no love lost."
Kurt marched down the ramp, unfazed by the "You suck!" chants that seemed to grow louder with every step. He climbed into the ring, eyes locked on Zlatan, and wasted no time grabbing a microphone. The tension in the arena was palpable as the two men stood just feet apart, glaring at one another.
Kurt raised the microphone to his lips, the crowd still booing him, but he didn't care. His voice was steady but seething with frustration. "You've got a lot of nerve, Zlatan." He took a step closer, pointing a finger at Zlatan. "You come out here, running your mouth, trying to put the blame on me for what happened at Survivor Series? Let me remind you of something."
Kurt paused, his eyes narrowing. "I'm the one who made you relevant. Before me, you were just some punk kid with a big mouth and some fancy martial arts moves. I took you under my wing. I brought you into the tag team championship picture. And let's not forget—I am the Olympic gold medalist."
The crowd erupted into a fresh round of boos, the "You suck!" chants ringing out once again, but Kurt ignored them, his focus entirely on Zlatan. "You might've made a name for yourself, but don't ever forget who the real star is here, Zlatan. I've been at the top of this business for years. I've won everything there is to win. You? You're just riding my coattails."
Zlatan's expression remained calm, though the intensity in his eyes didn't waver. He brought the microphone to his lips, his voice low and deliberate. "That's funny, Kurt. Because if I remember correctly, the last time we were in the ring together, at Unforgiven, I made you tap out."
The crowd erupted, remembering that unforgettable moment at Unforgiven when Zlatan made Kurt Angle submit to the Malmö Bridge, a victory that had sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe.
Zlatan took a step closer to Kurt, his voice calm but filled with authority. "You talk about being the star, about making me relevant. But the truth is, Kurt, you're threatened. Ever since I came into this company, you've been looking over your shoulder because you know that sooner or later, your time on top is over."
Kurt's jaw tightened, but Zlatan wasn't finished. "At Unforgiven, I proved that I'm not just some rookie. I proved that I can beat you. And I made you tap, Kurt. You tapped out in front of the entire world. So don't stand there and act like you're the reason I'm here. I earned my spot in this ring. I earned those titles. And now, I'm going to earn my way back to the top—whether you're standing in my way or not."
The crowd roared with approval as Zlatan stepped closer, standing toe-to-toe with Kurt Angle, their faces inches apart. The tension was at a boiling point, and it was clear that this rivalry had just reached a new level.
Michael Cole, sensing the magnitude of the moment, chimed in, "Zlatan isn't backing down, Tazz! He's reminding Kurt Angle exactly what happened at Unforgiven!"
Tazz nodded, his eyes fixed on the ring. "This is about more than just pride, Cole. This is about who's going to step up and claim their place as the best."
Kurt, clearly enraged by the reminder of his loss at Unforgiven, raised his microphone again, his voice filled with venom. "Yeah, you made me tap. Congratulations. But here's the thing, Zlatan—you're not on my level. You got lucky once, but luck doesn't last. I've got the experience, the skill, and the accolades that you'll never have. And if you think for one second that you're going to walk all over me again, you're dead wrong."
The crowd booed, but Kurt didn't care. He stepped even closer, their noses almost touching now. "You want to fight me again? You think you can make me tap again? Let's see how tough you are when I take you apart piece by piece. I'm not just going to make you tap, Zlatan—I'm going to make you regret ever stepping into my ring."
Zlatan smiled, unbothered by Kurt's threats. He brought the microphone to his lips one last time. "You're right about one thing, Kurt—this ring isn't big enough for both of us. So let's settle it. One-on-one. No partners, no excuses. You and me, Kurt. And this time, I won't just make you tap. I'll make sure there's no question who the real Lion of the WWE is."
With that, Zlatan dropped the microphone, his eyes never leaving Kurt Angle's. The two stood there, the tension between them thick enough to cut with a knife, as the crowd erupted in anticipation of what was sure to be an explosive confrontation down the line.
Michael Cole's voice filled the arena. "There you have it, folks! Zlatan has officially thrown down the challenge to Kurt Angle! These two are heading for a collision course!"
Tazz, grinning, added, "It's only a matter of time, Cole. When these two finally get in the ring again, it's gonna be fireworks."
As the crowd's energy buzzed through the arena, it was clear that the war between Zlatan Ibrahimović and Kurt Angle was far from over—and the next chapter was about to be written.
Kurt Angle, his expression now a mix of anger and calculated control, raised the microphone once more, but this time, there was a smirk forming on his face. The tension in the ring was palpable as the crowd waited for his response. "Zlatan, you want to go one-on-one with me? You want to prove you're better than me? Fine. I've got no problem settling it with you—"
Kurt paused for dramatic effect, letting the crowd simmer in anticipation before continuing, "—but not tonight."
The crowd booed at the delay, but Kurt held his hand up to quiet them. "You see, tonight, I've got a match with Eddie Guerrero, and let's face it, Zlatan, you're not even on my radar tonight. But next week?" Kurt's smirk grew wider. "Next week, you and I, we'll go at it. One-on-one, and I promise you, it'll be a match that shuts you up for good."
The crowd's energy surged as Kurt continued, pacing around the ring. "Now, you brought up Unforgiven… the night you made me tap out. Yeah, I've thought about that. You think I've just let that go? No way. I don't let things like that slide."
Zlatan crossed his arms, not taking his eyes off Kurt, sensing that there was more coming.
Kurt leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a more menacing tone. "You want to prove you're the best? Let's up the stakes. Next week's match? It's not going to be just any match, oh no. This is personal now, so why don't we make it historic?"
The crowd hushed as Kurt delivered his next words with a sharp edge: "You and me… 30-minute Iron Man match."
Michael Cole's voice rang out with excitement. "An Iron Man match?!"
Tazz, equally thrilled, added, "Oh man, Cole, this just got real! 30 minutes of non-stop action—whoever scores the most falls wins!"
Kurt, ignoring the growing cheers from the crowd, locked eyes with Zlatan. "You think you're tough? You think you can outlast me? Let's see how tough you are when you have to go the distance. No flukes, no excuses—just you and me, toe-to-toe, for thirty minutes straight. I guarantee, Zlatan, you won't be walking out of next week's match with a smile on your face."
The crowd erupted in anticipation as Zlatan uncrossed his arms, a smirk of his own forming. He brought the microphone up, clearly unfazed by Kurt's challenge.
"Kurt, you think a 30-minute Iron Man match is going to scare me? I thrive under pressure. You want 30 minutes? Fine. But don't forget—I made you tap out at Unforgiven, and I'll make you tap out again next week. But this time, you won't be able to run away from it. Thirty minutes of me in that ring with you? I'll own you."
The intensity in the arena had reached a fever pitch, and as both men stared each other down, the crowd chanted in unison, "Let them fight! Let them fight!"
Kurt Angle, ever the showman, gave one last parting shot. "Next week, Zlatan… bring everything you've got. Because when those thirty minutes are up, I'm going to remind you and everyone in that locker room why I'm the greatest wrestler to ever step foot in this ring."
With that, Kurt Angle backed out of the ring, the smirk never leaving his face, as he motioned to the crowd and made his way up the ramp. Zlatan stood in the center of the ring, staring him down, knowing that next week was going to be a war.
Michael Cole, still buzzing from the announcement, shouted, "Next week, it's official—Zlatan Ibrahimović versus Kurt Angle in a 30-minute Iron Man match! This is going to be incredible, Tazz!"
Tazz nodded, his excitement palpable. "Both these guys are world-class athletes, Cole. Thirty minutes? We're in for something special next week."
As Kurt disappeared behind the curtain, Zlatan remained in the ring, soaking in the atmosphere. He knew that next week wasn't just another match—it was a chance to prove, once and for all, that he could go toe-to-toe with the best and come out on top.
Next week, the Lion of Rosengård would roar again.
XXX
The arena lights dimmed, and the crowd buzzed with anticipation, knowing that the arrival of Zlatan Ibrahimović was imminent. Suddenly, the opening notes of "The Lion" by RZA and GZA blared through the speakers, sending a jolt of electricity through the crowd. As the music hit its peak, Zlatan appeared on the entrance stage, dressed in his ring gear with a sleek black leather vest adorned with a lion emblem emblazoned on the back. His entrance was commanding, an unmistakable aura of confidence surrounding him as he stood with his back to the audience, arms outstretched in his signature pose—a nod to Chris Jericho's iconic entrance.
The camera panned across the crowd, capturing the energy of the WWE Universe, and Michael Cole's voice filled the arena. "Ladies and gentlemen, here he is—the Lion of Rosengård—Zlatan Ibrahimović! Just four days removed from an incredible showing at Survivor Series, and you can bet he's looking to make a statement tonight."
Tazz chimed in, agreeing. "Absolutely, Cole. Zlatan had one heck of an outing at Survivor Series, and tonight, he's got that 30-minute Iron Man match against Kurt Angle looming over him next week. He's gotta send a message tonight."
Zlatan, after holding his pose for a few moments, spun around with flair, facing the audience and surveying the sea of fans in Hartford, Connecticut. He exuded the kind of confidence that only a world-class athlete possessed. With his lion emblem catching the arena lights, Zlatan began his march down the ramp, eyes locked on the ring, every step purposeful.
Tony Chimel's voice boomed over the PA system as Zlatan approached the ring. "The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Approaching the ring, from Malmö, Sweden, weighing in at 255 pounds—ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIĆ!"
The crowd erupted in cheers as Zlatan reached the ring. He wasted no time, smoothly hopping onto the apron with an impressive display of athleticism. Climbing the second turnbuckle in the corner, he raised his fist in the air, his face showing determination, as if already envisioning victory. The fans roared in approval, appreciating the superstar's confident presence.
Michael Cole, watching from ringside, continued to build the anticipation. "Zlatan Ibrahimović—255 pounds of precision, power, and pride. He's focused, Tazz, and he knows that with Kurt Angle waiting for him next week in that 30-minute Iron Man match, tonight's about sending a message."
Tazz, nodding in agreement, added, "Yeah, Cole, Zlatan's not just looking to win here—he's looking to make a statement. And if he can pull off another impressive performance tonight, Kurt Angle's gonna have a lot to think about heading into next week."
Zlatan hopped down from the turnbuckle, shaking out his arms, ready for action. His eyes narrowed as he surveyed the ring, his body language showing he was all business tonight. The camera caught a final close-up of Zlatan as he paced the ring, the intensity of his gaze leaving no doubt that he was prepared to dominate.
As the excitement in the arena continued to build, Tazz seamlessly transitioned into the sponsor segment. "And tonight's SmackDown is brought to you by FIFA Football 2003—EA Sports: It's in the game! In stores now."
Michael Cole followed up. "And by Die Another Day, starring Pierce Brosnan, hitting theaters tomorrow!"
The ring was set, the anticipation was thick, and Zlatan Ibrahimović stood ready to show the world, and most importantly, Kurt Angle, that he was not a man to be underestimated. This wasn't just another match—this was about building momentum, and the Lion of Rosengård was more than ready to roar.
As the hauntingly melodic music of Tajiri echoed through the arena, the crowd's excitement heightened. The Japanese Buzzsaw appeared on the entrance stage, his signature smirk painted on his face, as the mist from the entrance enveloped him. Tajiri, dressed in his black and green ring attire, moved swiftly down the ramp, exuding confidence.
Tony Chimel's voice boomed over the speakers once again, "And his opponent, from Tokyo, Japan, weighing in at 186 pounds—Tajiri!"
As Tajiri entered the ring, the contrast between him and Zlatan Ibrahimović was immediately apparent. Zlatan towered over the much smaller Tajiri, but there was no mistaking the striking prowess of both competitors. Tajiri's reputation for his lethal kicks and speed was well known, and the crowd knew they were in for a unique matchup between two masters of striking.
Michael Cole, watching intently, added context for the viewers at home. "This is going to be a very interesting matchup, Tazz. Both of these men are incredibly well-versed in striking—Zlatan with his martial arts background and raw power, and Tajiri with his lightning-fast kicks and agility."
Tazz, ever the analyst, pointed out the obvious size difference but also the potential danger Tajiri posed. "No doubt, Cole. You look at the size difference—Zlatan's got over 60 pounds on Tajiri, and he's much taller. But size won't mean everything if Tajiri can hit those lethal kicks. If anyone knows how to chop down a bigger opponent, it's Tajiri."
Inside the ring, Brian Hebner, the referee assigned to the contest, checked on both men before calling for the bell. With the sharp clang of the bell, the match was officially underway.
Zlatan and Tajiri circled each other, sizing each other up. The buzz in the arena was palpable, as the fans knew that this would be a clash of styles. Tajiri's quick, precise strikes against Zlatan's powerful, methodical offense would make for an intriguing battle.
Michael Cole kept the energy going as the two men prepared to lock up. "Both of these men bring something different to the table. Tajiri's got speed and technique, but Zlatan has the power and striking precision. This could come down to who makes the first mistake."
Tazz, already predicting a back-and-forth contest, chimed in. "And don't forget, Cole, Tajiri has experience against bigger guys—he knows how to use his speed. But if Zlatan catches him, it could be lights out for the Japanese Buzzsaw."
The crowd waited in anticipation, knowing that the first few exchanges could set the tone for what was sure to be a hard-hitting encounter. Zlatan, ever confident, gestured for Tajiri to come at him, ready to prove that size and power would prevail in this matchup. Tajiri, with his trademark smirk, seemed eager to show that speed and precision could overcome even the largest of opponents.
The stage was set, and the Lion of Rosengård was about to meet the Japanese Buzzsaw in what promised to be a thrilling contest.
As Zlatan Ibrahimović and Tajiri locked up in the center of the ring, the crowd eagerly watched, knowing that both men were capable of explosive offense. Tajiri, using his quickness, immediately went behind Zlatan, looking to gain the early advantage with a waistlock. But Zlatan, showing his impressive technical skills for a man of his size, quickly switched positions, reversing Tajiri's move and applying a waistlock takedown that sent the Japanese Buzzsaw to the mat with authority.
Michael Cole, impressed by Zlatan's technical prowess, commented, "Look at that! Zlatan using his power and technique early on with that waistlock takedown, not something you always expect from a man his size."
Tajiri, not one to stay grounded for long, reacted swiftly. He wriggled free from Zlatan's grip, transitioning into a hammerlock as he stood back up, twisting Zlatan's arm behind his back. The pace of the match quickened as Tajiri showed his technical ability to escape the larger Zlatan's offense.
However, Zlatan was not to be outdone. He reversed the hammerlock seamlessly, pulling Tajiri into a side headlock takedown, using his strength to bring Tajiri down to the mat once more. The crowd appreciated the technical exchange between the two very different styles.
Tazz, seeing the back-and-forth action, added, "Both guys showing off their skills here, Cole. Zlatan's got that headlock cinched in tight, but Tajiri's slippery—he's not gonna stay there long."
As if on cue, Tajiri used his quick reflexes to reverse the hold, slipping out of Zlatan's grasp and locking in a leg scissorsaround Zlatan's head. The Japanese Buzzsaw squeezed tightly, hoping to gain control.
But Zlatan, showcasing his own agility, quickly powered out of the leg scissors, popping up to his feet and immediately reapplying the side headlock once again, wrenching down on Tajiri with authority.
Michael Cole, calling the action, said, "Zlatan's got that headlock re-applied! He's showing that even though Tajiri is quicker, he's not going to let him take control that easily."
Tazz, impressed with the exchange, added, "This is a clinic, Cole. You've got the speed and technique of Tajiri going against the power and versatility of Zlatan. Neither man wants to give an inch."
The crowd cheered the technical exchange, appreciating the chess match unfolding between two masters of their craft. Zlatan kept the headlock applied, grounding Tajiri and controlling the pace, knowing that he needed to keep the Japanese Buzzsaw from unleashing his rapid-fire kicks. Tajiri, meanwhile, continued to wriggle and strategize, knowing he needed to create separation and unleash his signature striking offense.
The match was already heating up, and the WWE Universe was on the edge of their seats, waiting to see who would gain the upper hand in this hard-fought battle of styles.
As Zlatan Ibrahimović transitioned out of the side headlock, he looked to capitalize on his control by attempting a back suplex to slam Tajiri onto the mat. However, the quick and agile Tajiri managed to slip out in mid-air, landing on his feet behind Zlatan with cat-like reflexes.
The crowd gasped in anticipation, sensing that Tajiri was about to unleash one of his infamous kicks. Tajiri wasted no time and spun around, aiming a sharp roundhouse kick at Zlatan's head. But Zlatan, ever aware of Tajiri's striking ability, reacted quickly and caught Tajiri's leg in mid-swing.
Michael Cole, excited by the action, called it, "Zlatan catches the leg! He's not letting Tajiri land that lethal kick!"
With Tajiri's leg in his grasp, Zlatan smoothly transitioned into a leg lace takedown, bringing Tajiri to the mat. Sensing the perfect moment, Zlatan attempted to apply his signature submission hold, the Malmö Bridge, known for its ability to stretch an opponent's back and legs to their breaking point.
Tazz quickly added, "Zlatan's looking to lock in the Malmö Bridge! This could be it if he locks it on!"
However, Tajiri, recognizing the danger of being trapped in Zlatan's brutal submission, scrambled with all his might. Using his ring awareness, Tajiri clawed his way to the ropes, barely managing to grab hold of the bottom rope with his free hand before Zlatan could fully lock in the hold.
The referee, Brian Hebner, quickly stepped in, signaling for Zlatan to release the hold. Zlatan, showing respect for the rules, immediately let go, though he shot a frustrated glance at Tajiri, knowing he was close to sealing the match with his deadly submission.
Michael Cole chimed in, "Tajiri makes it to the ropes just in time! Zlatan was seconds away from locking in the Malmö Bridge!"
Tazz, nodding, added, "That was close, Cole! If Tajiri hadn't reached the ropes, we might be talking about Zlatan walking away with the win right now. Tajiri's gotta stay sharp."
Zlatan stood back, taking a moment to assess his strategy, while Tajiri used the ropes to pull himself up, visibly shaken but not out of the match just yet. The crowd roared in approval for the technical prowess and resilience both men were showing in this hard-fought contest.
With Tajiri on the ropes, the intensity of the match was only beginning to ramp up, and the fans could sense that this bout was far from over.
Zlatan Ibrahimović stood confidently in the ring, bringing his thumb and index finger close together, signaling to Tajirijust how close he had been to locking in the Malmö Bridge. The crowd buzzed as Zlatan's cocky gesture wasn't lost on the Japanese Buzzsaw, who stood against the ropes, catching his breath. Tajiri glanced at Zlatan with a mix of caution and determination, knowing that if Zlatan had applied the hold, the match could have been over.
Michael Cole, narrating the action, smoothly shifted the focus to another major event from Survivor Series. "Zlatan was this close to putting Tajiri away with the Malmö Bridge. And speaking of being in a bad spot, how about Brock Lesnar? The former WWE Champion is definitely not in a good mood after what went down at Survivor Series."
Tazz, quick to follow up, nodded. "Oh, you can bet on that, Cole. Lesnar got screwed out of the WWE Championship by his own agent, Paul Heyman. The Big Show's walkin' around with the title, but Lesnar's rage is on another level right now. And when Brock's angry, nobody's safe."
As the commentary team discussed Lesnar's fury, the camera briefly cut to a split-screen shot of the backstage area, where Lesnar was seen storming through the hallways of the arena, clearly fuming after his controversial loss at Survivor Series. His body language showed that anyone who crossed his path was in danger of feeling the brunt of his rage.
Back in the ring, the intensity between Zlatan and Tajiri remained high. The former football star from Rosengård knew he was in control, but the unpredictable nature of Tajiri kept everyone on edge. With one kick, the Japanese Buzzsaw could change the course of the match, but Zlatan's focus hadn't wavered since the opening bell.
As the camera returned to the action, it was clear that the next exchange would be pivotal in this thrilling matchup between two uniquely skilled competitors. Would Zlatan's power and technique be too much for Tajiri, or would Tajiri's speed and striking ability turn the tide? The WWE Universe was about to find out as the action continued in this electrifying contest.
As Tajiri stood in the corner, still feeling the effects of the near miss with the Malmö Bridge, he decided to change tactics. With a cunning gleam in his eye, Tajiri gestured for Zlatan Ibrahimović to lock up, seemingly looking to engage in a traditional collar-and-elbow tie-up. However, it was all a ploy.
As Zlatan reached out to lock up, Tajiri struck with lightning speed, delivering a sudden and precise roundhouse kick to Zlatan's ribs. The impact reverberated through the arena, and the crowd gasped as Zlatan briefly staggered, feeling the sting of the first blow. Tajiri, sensing the opportunity, followed up with another roundhouse kick, this time targeting Zlatan's thigh, aiming to weaken his base.
Michael Cole, calling the action, reacted immediately, "Tajiri with those lightning-fast kicks! He's trying to chop down the bigger Zlatan!"
Tazz added, "Tajiri's no fool, Cole. He knows Zlatan's power comes from his base, and those kicks are designed to take him off his feet."
Tajiri, now fully in control, unleashed a series of blows to Zlatan's back, further wearing down his larger opponent. The rapid strikes had Zlatan momentarily reeling, but the Lion of Rosengård wasn't one to back down easily.
As Tajiri wound up for another powerful kick, aiming for Zlatan's midsection, Zlatan showed his own martial arts prowess by blocking the kick with his forearm. The crowd erupted, knowing that Zlatan wasn't done yet.
Zlatan retaliated with a series of his own strikes, hitting sharp martial arts punches to Tajiri's chest and midsection. Each blow landed with precision and power, forcing Tajiri to take a step back, but the Japanese Buzzsaw was far from finished.
Tajiri retaliated with rapid-fire roundhouse kicks, each one connecting with Zlatan's legs and body, as the two men engaged in an all-out martial arts showcase. The crowd at the XL Center in Hartford could feel the intensity between these two competitors, their respective striking abilities on full display.
Michael Cole shouted, "This is an incredible display of martial prowess! Both men are giving it everything they've got!"
Tazz chimed in, "This is turning into a striking clinic, Cole. You don't often see two guys match up like this. Both Zlatan and Tajiri are putting on a show."
The exchange continued until Tajiri, always the quick thinker, saw an opening. He bounced off the ropes, using the momentum to launch himself at Zlatan with a dropkick to the knee, taking out Zlatan's base. The impact of the dropkick sent Zlatan to one knee, leaving him momentarily vulnerable.
Michael Cole exclaimed, "Tajiri with the dropkick to the knee! He's got Zlatan down!"
With Zlatan now grounded, Tajiri knew he had an opportunity to press his advantage. The crowd buzzed in anticipation, knowing that the action was about to intensify even further as Tajiri looked to take control. Could Tajiri capitalize on this opening, or would Zlatan find a way to battle back once more? The thrilling contest continued, with the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats.
With Zlatan Ibrahimović down on one knee after the dropkick to the leg, Tajiri knew it was the perfect moment to keep his larger opponent grounded. He quickly moved in, taking advantage of the situation. Tajiri grabbed hold of Zlatan's arm and, with a swift motion, executed a precise armbar takedown, pulling Zlatan down to the mat with authority.
The crowd gasped as Tajiri transitioned smoothly, wasting no time in applying a short-arm scissors submission, expertly locking in the hold. Zlatan winced in pain as Tajiri cranked on the pressure, trying to hyperextend Zlatan's arm and prevent him from using his strength to get back to his feet.
Michael Cole, his voice filled with urgency, commented on the sudden shift in momentum. "Tajiri is focusing on that arm now, keeping Zlatan grounded and trying to wear down the Lion of Rosengård! This is smart strategy from Tajiri."
Tazz, acknowledging Tajiri's technical prowess, added, "Yeah, Cole, Tajiri knows that if Zlatan gets back to his feet, it's gonna be a whole different ballgame. He's keeping him grounded, taking away that power."
As Tajiri pulled on the arm, bending it awkwardly, Zlatan gritted his teeth, feeling the pain radiate through his shoulder and elbow. He pounded the mat with his free hand, trying to muster the strength to escape the hold. The short-arm scissors was designed to sap the strength from an opponent's arm, and Tajiri was applying it perfectly, keeping Zlatan from regaining his vertical base.
The crowd at the XL Center watched intently, wondering if Tajiri's technical assault would be enough to keep the powerful Zlatan down.
Michael Cole continued, "Tajiri is showing his versatility here—those kicks, the strikes, and now this technical submission hold! He's pulling out everything to keep Zlatan from getting back into this match."
Zlatan, determined not to stay down, started to shift his body, using his size advantage to slowly inch toward the ropes. The strain on his arm was evident, but the Lion of Rosengård refused to be kept down. With the WWE Universe rallying behind him, Zlatan began to power his way up, using his legs to try and alleviate the pressure of the armbar.
Tazz, sensing the momentum shift, said, "Zlatan's trying to use his strength to get out of this, but Tajiri's got that hold locked in tight! He's not gonna let go easily."
Zlatan, fighting through the pain, reached out for the ropes. The battle for control continued, with Tajiri determined to keep the submission locked in while Zlatan fought to break free. The match was heating up, and the WWE Universe could feel that something big was about to happen.
As Zlatan Ibrahimović struggled to escape the short-arm scissors, he quickly realized that he was close to the ropes but also recognized another option. Instead of relying on the ropes for a break, Zlatan used his incredible core strength and size advantage to push Tajiri onto his shoulders, lifting him off the mat while still in the submission hold. The crowd gasped in awe at the display of power as Zlatan began to rise to his feet.
Tazz, his voice filled with disbelief, shouted, "Oh my God! Look at this! !"
Michael Cole followed up, equally astounded, "Look at the strength of the Lion of Rosengård! Zlatan's deadlifting Tajiri!"
With Tajiri weighing only 186 pounds, Zlatan was able to deadlift him with ease, holding him high in the air while the Japanese Buzzsaw remained locked in his submission hold. The arena buzzed with excitement as Zlatan displayed his incredible power, showing why he was one of the most feared competitors on SmackDown.
Once Zlatan had Tajiri elevated, he took a moment, his muscles bulging from the effort, before slamming Tajiri back down to the mat with authority. The impact echoed throughout the arena as Tajiri hit the canvas hard, releasing the hold immediately.
Tazz, in awe, added, "That's pure power right there, Cole. Not many men can deadlift someone like that out of a submission hold."
Michael Cole nodded, "Zlatan just used his raw strength to get out of that hold, and Tajiri is feeling it now."
After the impactful slam, Zlatan stepped back, shaking his arm, which had taken some damage from Tajiri's submission. He rolled his shoulder, trying to shake off the pain, but the fire in his eyes showed that he was far from done. The momentum had shifted, and Zlatan was ready to take control once again in this thrilling contest.
As the crowd cheered, the Lion of Rosengård looked down at Tajiri, who was still recovering from the slam, and prepared himself for the next phase of his attack. The WWE Universe could sense that Zlatan was gearing up to finish the match, and the energy in the XL Center was electric.
The match was reaching a critical point, and Zlatan's power had given him the upper hand, but Tajiri's resilience meant the contest was far from over.
With the momentum now fully in his favor, Zlatan Ibrahimović wasted no time. He grabbed Tajiri by the arm, dragging him forcefully across the ring to the nearest corner. The Lion of Rosengård was determined to press his advantage, and the crowd could feel his intensity as he cornered the Japanese Buzzsaw.
Once Tajiri was trapped in the corner, Zlatan unleashed a barrage of right and left punches, each strike landing with precision and force. The impact of the punches echoed throughout the XL Center, as the WWE Universe erupted with excitement.
Michael Cole, witnessing the assault, shouted, "Zlatan's unloading here! A relentless assault on Tajiri in the corner!"
Tazz chimed in, impressed by the sheer aggression, "Zlatan's throwing those hands like they're sledgehammers, Cole. Tajiri's in a world of trouble now."
Not content with just punches, Zlatan switched it up, delivering sharp elbow strikes to Tajiri's head and chest, each blow driving Tajiri deeper into the turnbuckles. The precision of the elbows showed Zlatan's versatility, mixing both raw power and martial arts expertise as he pummeled Tajiri.
The referee, Brian Hebner, stepped in to warn Zlatan to back off, reminding him of the rules. Zlatan momentarily glanced at the referee but didn't let up, throwing one last stiff elbow strike to Tajiri's jaw, leaving the Japanese Buzzsaw dazed and slumped in the corner.
Michael Cole continued, "Zlatan's completely in control right now. He's using every part of his arsenal to wear down Tajiri."
As Zlatan stepped back for a moment, catching his breath, he glanced around at the roaring crowd. He knew he had Tajiri on the ropes—figuratively and literally—and it was only a matter of time before he looked to finish the match.
The question was: how would Zlatan choose to end it? Would he go for his devastating Malmö Bridge submission, or would he unleash one of his powerful strikes to put Tajiri away for good? The anticipation in the arena was palpable as the WWE Universe waited to see Zlatan's next move.
With Tajiri still reeling from the brutal strikes in the corner, Zlatan Ibrahimović decided to up the ante. He grabbed Tajiri by the arm and, with tremendous force, whipped him into the ropes. As Tajiri bounced off, Zlatan aimed a devastating high kick at him, but Tajiri's speed and agility came into play.
Tajiri ducked under the kick, narrowly avoiding the blow, and used the momentum to attempt one of his signature moves—a handspring elbow. The crowd gasped in anticipation, but Zlatan, ever aware and powerful, was ready for it.
As Tajiri flipped backward toward him, Zlatan reached out and caught Tajiri mid-move, showing incredible strength and timing. The crowd erupted, sensing what was about to happen.
Michael Cole, astonished, shouted, "Zlatan caught him! What power by the Lion of Rosengård!"
Before Tajiri could react, Zlatan swiftly transitioned, wrapping his arms around Tajiri's waist and executing a picture-perfect belly-to-belly suplex. The force of the move sent Tajiri crashing hard onto the mat, the impact echoing throughout the arena. Tajiri landed with authority, clutching his back in pain as the crowd roared in approval of Zlatan's dominance.
Tazz, impressed, added, "Zlatan with that belly-to-belly suplex! He just threw Tajiri like a rag doll, Cole!"
Zlatan, standing tall after the suplex, soaked in the energy from the crowd. He had countered Tajiri's best shot with ease, and now, with Tajiri down, the match was his to control. The WWE Universe could feel that the end was near as Zlatan stalked his fallen opponent, ready to deliver the finishing blow in this hard-fought contest.
After delivering the powerful belly-to-belly suplex, Zlatan Ibrahimović wasn't ready to let Tajiri off the hook just yet. Sensing that he had the advantage, Zlatan knelt down beside the prone Japanese Buzzsaw and grabbed hold of Tajiri's leg, expertly transitioning into a punishing half Boston crab.
With the move locked in, Zlatan sat down deep, applying tremendous pressure to Tajiri's lower back while putting his full weight onto his opponent. Tajiri winced in pain as the strain on his spine became unbearable, his free leg kicking in frustration as he struggled to escape.
Michael Cole, always quick to provide context, said, "Look at the way Zlatan is applying that half Boston crab! All of his weight is on Tajiri, and this could be the beginning of the end for the Japanese Buzzsaw!"
Tazz chimed in, "Zlatan's got Tajiri trapped, Cole! This is smart strategy—keep him grounded, make him suffer!"
As Tajiri fought against the pain, the commentary team shifted their focus to the ongoing rivalry between Zlatan and Kurt Angle, adding depth to the match.
Michael Cole continued, "This animosity between Zlatan and Kurt Angle has been brewing ever since Zlatan was traded to SmackDown from Raw back in August. These two have been at each other's throats, and after what happened at Survivor Series, it's only intensified."
Tazz nodded, adding, "Yeah, Cole, there's a lot of bad blood between these two. Remember, Zlatan made Kurt tap out at Unforgiven, and that's been eating at Angle ever since. Next week's 30-Minute Iron Man Match is going to be one for the ages."
Back in the ring, Zlatan continued to crank back on the half Boston crab, the expression on his face showing his determination to make Tajiri submit. The WWE Universe was on the edge of their seats, wondering if Tajiri could find a way to escape or if the Lion of Rosengård would put him away with this submission hold.
Would Tajiri find the strength to fight back, or would Zlatan's relentless attack be too much to overcome? The tension in the arena continued to rise as the battle raged on.
As Zlatan Ibrahimović continued to apply pressure with the half Boston crab, Tajiri, ever the resourceful competitor, began shifting his weight, looking for an escape. In a sudden burst of energy, Tajiri managed to twist his body, using Zlatan's own leverage against him to pull the Lion of Rosengård into a small package pinning combination.
The referee quickly dropped down and began the count:
"1... 2..."
But just before the referee's hand could come down for the third time, Zlatan powered out of the pin, kicking out with authority and rolling away to avoid further trouble.
Michael Cole, his voice filled with excitement, exclaimed, "Tajiri almost stole one there! He turned that half Boston crab into a small package out of nowhere!"
Tazz added, "Tajiri's always thinking, Cole. That was a smart counter, but Zlatan's not gonna let that happen!"
As Tajiri scrambled to his feet, hoping to follow up on the surprise near fall, Zlatan was ready. Tajiri rushed in, but the moment he stepped forward, he walked straight into Zlatan's path. With a lightning-quick motion, Zlatan delivered a devastating spinning kick, his martial arts background shining through.
The impact was brutal, with Zlatan's foot connecting squarely with Tajiri's chest, knocking the Japanese Buzzsaw to the mat with authority.
Michael Cole, astonished by the strike, shouted, "What a spinning kick by Zlatan Ibrahimović! He just leveled Tajiri!"
Tazz echoed the sentiment, "Man, that's gotta be it! Tajiri never saw that coming!"
With Tajiri laid out on the mat, gasping for breath, the momentum had swung fully back in Zlatan's favor. The Lion of Rosengård stood tall once again, ready to capitalize on the opening and bring the match to its conclusion. The WWE Universe could sense the end was near, and the atmosphere in the arena was electric.
As Zlatan Ibrahimović went for the pinfall, he confidently hooked Tajiri's leg, pressing his full weight down on him, believing victory was in sight.
The referee began the count:
"1... 2..."
But just before the referee's hand came down for the third count, Tajiri showed his resilience by getting his shoulder up at the last second, keeping the match alive.
Michael Cole, surprised, exclaimed, "Tajiri gets the shoulder up! He's still in this!"
Tazz added, "You've gotta hand it to Tajiri. The man's tough, and he's not giving up that easily."
Zlatan, visibly frustrated but focused, exhaled a breath, knowing he had to dig deeper to put Tajiri away. Without wasting any time, he grabbed Tajiri and began pulling him back to his feet. With a clear plan in mind, Zlatan placed Tajiri on his shoulder, setting him up for the snake eyes on the top turnbuckle, intending to drive Tajiri face-first into the corner.
However, Tajiri wasn't out of tricks just yet. As Zlatan approached the corner, Tajiri managed to catch himself, using his agility to flip over the ropes. In an incredible display of athleticism, Tajiri landed on the apron, springing off the top rope in one smooth motion and delivering a vicious roundhouse kick to the side of Zlatan's head!
The crowd erupted in shock and excitement as the move connected perfectly, sending the Lion of Rosengård stumbling back, dazed from the impact of Tajiri's kick.
Michael Cole, his voice filled with awe, shouted, "What a springboard roundhouse kick by Tajiri! He caught Zlatan right on the temple!"
Tazz, impressed, added, "Tajiri just knocked the taste out of Zlatan's mouth! What a counter!"
With Zlatan momentarily stunned and trying to regain his balance, Tajiri had created an opening. The crowd could feel the tide turning once again, as the back-and-forth contest between these two elite strikers continued to captivate the WWE Universe.
With Zlatan Ibrahimović staggered and off-balance from the devastating roundhouse kick, Tajiri knew he had to act quickly to capitalize on the opening he had just created. The crowd buzzed with excitement as the Japanese Buzzsaw pressed the advantage.
Tajiri, displaying his quickness and ring awareness, darted toward Zlatan, delivering a swift kick to the midsection, causing Zlatan to double over in pain. Wasting no time, Tajiri bounced off the ropes, building momentum for his next move.
As he returned, Tajiri leaped into the air and executed a perfectly timed handspring back elbow, catching Zlatan square in the chest. The force of the impact sent Zlatan crashing to the mat, his powerful frame momentarily incapacitated by the unexpected offense.
Michael Cole, calling the action, shouted, "Tajiri with the handspring back elbow! He's taking it to the Lion of Rosengård!"
Tazz, equally impressed, added, "This is why Tajiri's so dangerous, Cole. He can strike out of nowhere and turn the tide just like that!"
With Zlatan down, Tajiri saw his moment to strike again. The Buzzsaw wasted no time and quickly positioned himself, signaling that his next move would be even more devastating. Tajiri backed up slightly, focusing on Zlatan's prone body.
The crowd was fully behind Tajiri, sensing that the high-octane striker had the opportunity to close in on a potential victory. Tajiri raised his arms, preparing to hit one of his signature maneuvers, knowing that this was his chance to put the mighty Zlatan down for good.
As Zlatan Ibrahimović pushed himself up into a seated position, Tajiri saw the perfect opening to unleash one of his most devastating moves. The Japanese Buzzsaw took a step back, measuring his opponent with laser focus.
In an instant, Tajiri delivered a vicious buzzsaw kick to the side of Zlatan's head, the sharp sound of the impact reverberating through the arena. The WWE Universe collectively winced as the strike landed flush, sending Zlatan crashing back to the mat.
Michael Cole, in awe of the kick, shouted, "Tajiri with that brutal kick to the skull! That could be it!"
Tazz added, "He caught Zlatan right on the temple, Cole! This could be the end for the Lion of Rosengård!"
Seizing the moment, Tajiri quickly dropped down for the cover, hooking Zlatan's leg as the referee slid in to count.
"1... 2..."
But just before the referee's hand could hit the mat for the third count, Zlatan powered out, kicking out at the last second! The crowd erupted in shock and excitement as the match continued.
Michael Cole, surprised, exclaimed, "Zlatan kicks out! I can't believe he's still in this after that kick!"
Tazz, equally stunned, added, "You've got to give it to Zlatan—he's got a hard head, Cole. That kick would've knocked out anyone else!"
Both competitors were visibly worn down, and the crowd was on the edge of their seats, fully engrossed in this intense battle. Tajiri couldn't believe it, but he knew he had to stay on the attack if he wanted to finish the job. Meanwhile, Zlatan fought to gather his strength, determined to turn the tide back in his favor.
With Tajiri determined to finish the job, he backed up and measured Zlatan Ibrahimović once again, looking for another brutal kick to put the Lion of Rosengård down for good. As Tajiri closed in, leg poised to strike, Zlatan summoned his instincts and ducked under the lethal blow.
With lightning-fast reflexes, Zlatan immediately shoved Tajiri into the ropes. As Tajiri bounced back, Zlatan scooped him up by the legs, using his immense strength to spin around before delivering a thunderous spinebuster that shook the ring. The impact left Tajiri sprawled out on the mat, stunned by the sheer force of the maneuver.
Michael Cole, electrified by the shift in momentum, shouted, "What a spinebuster by Zlatan! He just planted Tajiri!"
Tazz, equally impressed, added, "That's the strength of Zlatan right there, Cole. Tajiri just got flattened!"
Zlatan, feeling the effects of Tajiri's earlier kicks, took a moment to shake off the cobwebs, rolling his neck and exhaling deeply. His expression quickly shifted to one of intensity, and the crowd could sense what was coming next. Zlatan stood tall, his eyes locked on his opponent, and raised his hand to perform his signature cut throat taunt, signaling that he was ready to finish this.
The Lion of Rosengård was ready to roar.
With the WWE Universe buzzing, Zlatan retreated to a corner of the ring, stomping his foot on the canvas in a rhythmic motion, building anticipation. The fans cheered louder with each stomp, knowing that Zlatan's signature superkick, the Lion's Roar, was on the horizon.
Michael Cole, filled with anticipation, said, "Zlatan's getting ready for the Lion's Roar, Tazz! If he hits this, it's all over for Tajiri!"
Tazz, nodding in agreement, added, "You can feel it, Cole. Zlatan's about to put Tajiri to sleep with that superkick!"
With Zlatan locked in and Tajiri slowly trying to recover, the tension in the arena reached its peak. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, ready to witness the final blow in this hard-fought contest.
With Zlatan Ibrahimović standing in the corner, stomping the mat in anticipation, the crowd could feel the intensity build. The Lion of Rosengård was ready to strike, waiting for Tajiri to get back to his feet. As the Japanese Buzzsaw slowly rose, Zlatan saw his moment and charged out of the corner, going for his devastating Lion's Roar superkick.
But Tajiri, ever the cunning competitor, managed to duck under the kick just in time. Quickly recovering, Tajiri prepared to unleash his signature move—the Green Mist. The arena collectively gasped as Tajiri spit the mist, aiming for Zlatan's eyes.
However, Zlatan had anticipated the move, ducking at the last possible second. The Green Mist missed its target completely, hitting nothing but air.
With Tajiri momentarily stunned from the failed attempt, Zlatan wasted no time. He sprang back to his feet and, with perfect precision, delivered the Lion's Roar—his powerful superkick—directly to Tajiri's chin. The impact was explosive, and Tajiri crumpled to the mat.
Michael Cole, in awe of Zlatan's counter, shouted, "Zlatan ducks the mist! And there it is—the Lion's Roar connects!"
Tazz, equally fired up, added, "What a superkick! Tajiri is out cold!"
Zlatan immediately dropped down for the cover, hooking the leg as the referee counted:
"1... 2... 3!"
The bell rang, signaling Zlatan's victory, and the crowd erupted in cheers. At ringside, Tony Chimel raised the microphone and proudly announced:
"Here is your winner, Zlatan Ibrahimović!"
Zlatan stood tall in the center of the ring, his hand raised in victory. The Lion of Rosengård had once again proven his dominance, not just with his strength but with his ring awareness and ability to counter even the most dangerous of attacks. Tajiri lay motionless on the mat, having fallen victim to Zlatan's devastating superkick. The WWE Universe roared in approval as Zlatan Ibrahimović celebrated another hard-fought victory.
As Zlatan Ibrahimović walked over to the corner, still riding high from his hard-fought victory, he climbed to the second turnbuckle with ease. He threw his fist up in celebration, soaking in the adulation from the crowd. The cheers reverberated throughout the arena as Zlatan stood tall, victorious once again.
Michael Cole, seizing the moment, remarked, "Well, if Kurt Angle is watching—and I'm sure he is—Zlatan Ibrahimović just sent him a clear message tonight. This is what Angle can expect next week in their 30-minute Iron Man match."
Tazz, nodding in agreement, added, "Absolutely, Cole. Zlatan is on fire, and if he can bring that kind of intensity and skill into that Iron Man match, Kurt Angle better be ready for a war!"
With his arm raised in triumph, Zlatan continued to celebrate his win, the intensity in his eyes never wavering. Next week's showdown with Kurt Angle was looming, and Zlatan had just given the WWE Universe—and his rival—a preview of what was to come. The message was loud and clear: the Lion of Rosengård was ready for battle, and he wasn't backing down.
XXXX
Backstage, after his triumphant match, Zlatan Ibrahimović was walking down the corridor, the adrenaline still pumping from his victory. As he rounded a corner, he was approached by SmackDown General Manager Stephanie McMahon, who had a determined look on her face.
Stephanie, dressed in a sharp suit, stepped forward with authority. "Zlatan," she said, getting his attention.
Zlatan stopped, slightly nodding in acknowledgment as Stephanie continued. "I wanted to have a word with you about what happened at Survivor Series. I've been watching closely, and I know things got heated between you and Kurt Angle—especially after losing the WWE Tag Team Titles."
Zlatan, still frustrated by the loss, clenched his jaw but remained silent, letting Stephanie speak.
"Next week," she continued, "you and Kurt Angle will face off in a 30-minute Iron Man match. I know this rivalry has been building for months, and you both want to prove who the better man is." She paused, glancing at Zlatan's intense expression. "But there's more on the line than just pride."
Zlatan raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
Stephanie smirked, the weight of her words sinking in. "The winner of that Iron Man match will become the No. 1 contender for the WWE Championship at Armageddon next month."
Zlatan's eyes widened slightly, the realization hitting him. A chance to face Big Show, the reigning WWE Champion, after Paul Heyman screwed Brock Lesnar at Survivor Series. It was an opportunity Zlatan couldn't afford to miss.
Stephanie continued, "You want that shot at the WWE Championship? Next week, it's in your hands. All you have to do is beat Kurt."
Zlatan let out a small chuckle, his confidence returning. "Don't worry, Stephanie. I already made him tap once at Unforgiven. Next week, I'll do it again. Then, it'll be me and Big Show at Armageddon."
Stephanie smiled slightly, knowing the stakes were now set even higher. "Good luck, Zlatan. I expect nothing less than a battle."
As Stephanie walked away, the camera zoomed in on Zlatan—focused, determined, and more motivated than ever. The Iron Man match next week was no longer just about settling a score with Kurt Angle. It was about securing a path to the WWE Championship and proving he was ready to dominate on the biggest stage.
Michael Cole's voice-over echoed the gravity of the announcement. "There you have it, folks. Next week, Zlatan Ibrahimović versus Kurt Angle—30 minutes of pure competition—and the winner goes on to face Big Show for the WWE Championship at Armageddon. The stakes have never been higher!"