Jan 9 2003
The energy in Tucson, Arizona, was electric as SmackDown went live on January 9, 2003. Fans packed into the arena, buzzing with anticipation for what promised to be another unforgettable night of action. At ringside, Michael Cole and Tazz were ready to call the action, their voices an integral part of the SmackDown experience.
"The WWE Universe is in for a treat tonight, Tazz," Michael Cole began, his voice capturing the excitement of the crowd. "SmackDown is live from Tucson, Arizona, and we are kicking things off in a big way!"
"You got that right, Cole," Tazz responded, his tone matching Cole's enthusiasm. "The Lion of Rosengård, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the No. 1 contender for the WWE Championship, is about to make his way to the ring. And if last week was any indication, you know we're in for something special."
The arena lights dimmed momentarily before the familiar opening chords of Zlatan's theme song filled the space, immediately followed by a roar from the crowd. The "Lion of Rosengård" made his entrance, exuding confidence and charisma. Dressed in his street attire—a WWE merchandise shirt emblazoned with "There's Only One Zlatan" on the front and a lion logo on the back, paired with blue jeans and white sneakers—he embodied the persona of a fighter who was as much at home in the ring as he was addressing the masses.
As Zlatan walked down the ramp, his eyes scanned the crowd, acknowledging the fans who were on their feet, chanting his name. The connection between the superstar and the WWE Universe was palpable, a testament to his impact both inside and outside the ring.
"Listen to this crowd, Tazz!" Cole exclaimed as Zlatan climbed into the ring. "The WWE Universe in Tucson can't get enough of Zlatan Ibrahimovic. After what transpired last week, everyone's been waiting to see what the Lion of Rosengård has to say."
Zlatan's presence in the ring commanded attention. He paced briefly before requesting a microphone, which ring announcer Tony Chimel promptly handed over. The arena fell into a hushed anticipation, hanging on to what the charismatic contender was about to say.
As Zlatan prepared to speak, the chants of "Ibra! Ibra!" grew louder, filling the arena with a fervor only the WWE Universe could provide. Zlatan soaked in the adulation, a smile playing on his lips as he looked around the arena. It was a moment of mutual respect and admiration, a superstar and his fans united in their passion for the sport.
"Seeing Zlatan standing in the middle of that ring, soaking in the chants from the WWE Universe, it's clear he's not just a contender for the WWE Championship, Cole," Tazz remarked, capturing the significance of the moment. "He's a contender for the heart of every single fan in this arena tonight."
Michael Cole nodded in agreement, his voice reflecting the sentiment echoed throughout the Tucson arena. "Absolutely, Tazz. Whether you're a fan of Zlatan Ibrahimovic or not, there's no denying the impact he's had on WWE. And tonight, Tucson is firmly in the corner of the Lion of Rosengård."
As the chants continued, Zlatan raised the microphone, ready to address the WWE Universe. The anticipation was palpable, every eye fixed on the ring, waiting for the words of the No. 1 contender. The stage was set for a memorable night on SmackDown, a testament to the ever-evolving saga of WWE and its stars.
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The Tucson crowd quieted down as Zlatan Ibrahimovic raised the microphone to his lips, his demeanor one of calm confidence. With the WWE Universe hanging on every word, Zlatan began to outline the landscape of WWE as he saw it, setting the stage for his aspirations at the Royal Rumble.
"Since I earned my title shot at Armageddon by beating Triple H, the landscape of WWE has shifted," Zlatan started, his voice strong and clear. "Kurt Angle has become the WWE Champion for a third time. And it seems Kurt, alongside that slimeball walrus Paul Heyman, has orchestrated a plan to keep Brock Lesnar out of title contention."
A mixture of boos and jeers filled the arena as fans expressed their disdain for the underhanded tactics described by Zlatan. He continued, unfazed by the interruption, "And of course, Kurt's got himself some new proteges, or should I say, stooges, to do his dirty work."
The crowd's reaction intensified at the mention of Angle's allies, clearly siding with Zlatan in this unfolding drama.
"But," Zlatan shifted gears, his tone taking on a note of solemn determination, "let's talk about the Royal Rumble in Boston. Now, I've never been one to brag. I prefer to let my in-ring ability speak for itself. But let me say this—"
He paused, letting the suspense build, his gaze sweeping across the sea of fans before him. "You're looking at the next WWE Champion. And the lion," he paused, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips, "will roar in Boston."
The declaration was met with an explosive response from the WWE Universe, their cheers echoing throughout the arena. Zlatan took a moment, lowering the microphone, allowing the chants and applause to wash over him. It was a powerful acknowledgment from the fans, a collective endorsement of his claim to the WWE Championship.
As the cheers from the WWE Universe in Tucson continued to resonate throughout the arena, Zlatan Ibrahimovic took advantage of the moment to delve deeper into his journey in WWE—a path marked by skepticism, challenges, and ultimately, triumph.
"I remember when I debuted in Montreal, right after WrestleMania," Zlatan began, his voice tinged with reflection. "There were doubters everywhere. 'He's just a kid,' they said. 'Just a soccer player. Zlatan Ibrahimovic can't cut it in WWE.'"
A chorus of boos erupted from the crowd, expressing their disdain for those early critics of Zlatan's wrestling career. Yet, as the noise subsided, Zlatan's demeanor showcased neither bitterness nor anger, but rather a quiet confidence born of proven success.
"But here I stand," he continued, his voice growing firmer, "having proved them all wrong. I've beaten some of the best in the business—Chris Jericho, Triple H, Stone Cold, Booker T." The mention of each name drew a wave of reactions from the audience, a mix of awe and respect for the path Zlatan had carved in WWE.
"And within just four months," Zlatan added, his achievements hanging in the air, "I made history by becoming the first-ever Swedish champion in WWE history. Intercontinental Champion and Tag Team Champion." The pride in his voice was unmistakable, a testament to the hard work and determination that had brought him to this pinnacle.
The WWE Universe erupted in applause, their support for Zlatan palpable. They had witnessed his journey, from the skepticism that greeted his arrival to the heights he had since reached, and now they were behind him as he eyed the ultimate prize.
"And come Royal Rumble," Zlatan declared, the intensity in his eyes matching the passion in his voice, "I will complete the treble by winning the WWE Championship."
The statement was met with a thunderous approval from the crowd, their chants of "Ibra! Ibra!" filling the arena. It was a clear message of belief and anticipation; the fans were with him, ready to witness history in the making.
As Zlatan Ibrahimovic's words resonated throughout the arena, the WWE Universe hung on every syllable, riding the wave of anticipation and support for the charismatic contender. Zlatan shifted his focus to his rival—and former partner—Kurt Angle, not holding back as he dissected Angle's actions and words with precision.
"You know, Kurt Angle likes to talk about being a man of action," Zlatan stated, his tone laced with irony. "Yet, it's funny how 'yellow' and 'egotistical' he becomes when it really matters. Making deals with the devil himself, Paul Heyman, just to keep Lesnar out of the title hunt."
A mix of laughter and jeers filled the arena, the WWE Universe fully engaged in Zlatan's takedown of his rivals' hypocrisy.
"Zlatan 3:40 says," he continued, a wry smile on his face, eliciting a roar of approval for the clear homage, "that whatever plans they've got for Zlatan Ibrahimovic, I will be ready. Because Zlatan Ibrahimovic is gonna take Kurt Angle's ass to Boston, roll right into route 3:40, and give him a beating so badly that even God will turn the other cheek."
The crowd's cheers reached a crescendo, their enthusiasm for Zlatan's promise of retribution palpable. Michael Cole and Tazz were equally caught up in the moment, their commentary adding to the electrifying atmosphere.
"Did you hear that, Tazz? Zlatan 3:40 just laid down the law!" Michael Cole exclaimed, barely containing his excitement.
"Absolutely, Cole. Zlatan's not just ready for a fight; he's promising a beatdown of biblical proportions at the Royal Rumble!" Tazz added, his voice filled with anticipation.
But just as Zlatan was about to continue, a familiar voice cut through the arena, halting the momentum. "Back up, Jack," boomed the voice of Albert, now calling himself A-Train, one of Heyman's henchmen, as he appeared at the entrance.
Zlatan paused, turning his attention to the ramp where A-Train stood, ready to intervene. The WWE Universe's reaction shifted from support for Zlatan to disdain for the interruption, booing A-Train as he made his presence known.
As A-Train made his way down to the ring with the confidence of a man on a mission, the WWE Universe showered him with boos, a clear indication of their disdain for what he represented. Stepping into the ring, A-Train wasted no time in delivering his message, a direct threat commissioned by the powers that be within WWE.
"You're right about Kurt Angle and Paul Heyman having plans for you, Zlatan," A-Train declared, his voice echoing through the arena, silencing the crowd's boos. "And they include me. You see, Kurt's got a problem with a low-life street thug like you going for the WWE Championship, and quite frankly, so do I."
The crowd's reaction turned volatile, the mention of Zlatan as a "low-life street thug" igniting their anger. A-Train continued, unfazed by the hostility emanating from the WWE Universe.
"Heyman is paying me a lot of money to ensure you don't make it to the Royal Rumble at 100%. And that doesn't mean pinning you 1-2-3 in the ring. It means kicking your ass and putting you behind bars where you belong."
The threat hung in the air, a palpable tension building as A-Train stared down Zlatan, expecting a reaction. But Zlatan, ever the unflappable presence, simply smirked at A-Train's words.
Standing across from Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the center of the ring, A-Train's demeanour shifted from confrontational to downright menacing. The tension between the two was palpable, a raw energy that had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats.
"Zlatan, all you are is one dumb son of a bitch that doesn't know when to quit," A-Train spat out, his words laced with contempt. The WWE Universe responded with a mix of boos and shouts, rallying behind Zlatan in the face of A-Train's insult.
"Up to this moment, at this very second in WWE, you've had beginner's luck," A-Train continued, his voice rising over the din of the crowd. "Well, come Royal Rumble, that luck is about to end when Kurt Angle makes you tap out."
The statement was designed to intimidate, to sow doubt, but Zlatan remained unfazed, his expression stoic yet defiant in the face of A-Train's verbal assault. The crowd's reaction intensified, their chants and cheers a clear sign of their support for Zlatan and their disdain for A-Train's predictions.
With the crowd buzzing in anticipation, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, undeterred by A-Train's attempt to intimidate him, prepared his retort with the confidence and flair that had become his trademark. Smirking slightly, he addressed A-Train with a tone that blended mockery with challenge.
"What we have here is a failure to communicate," Zlatan began, his voice carrying clearly across the arena. "It's obvious to me that, given your hairy back, you should probably shave it at a beauty salon," he paused, allowing the laughter and cheers from the WWE Universe to fill the space, "and with that chrome dome head of yours, you act as their bodyguard."
The crowd erupted into laughter and applause, thoroughly enjoying Zlatan's quips at A-Train's expense. Zlatan's ability to maintain his composure and wit under pressure endeared him even more to the fans, who relished this display of verbal sparring.
"But you know what, Zlatan Ibrahimovic doesn't play games," he continued, the tone of his voice shifting from mocking to dead serious. The atmosphere in the arena tensed in anticipation of what was to come. "So why don't you go back and tell your bosses to get to this ring right now, so I can whoop their asses in this ring, right now."
The challenge hung in the air, a direct provocation not just to A-Train, but to Kurt Angle and Paul Heyman as well. The WWE Universe was on its feet, chanting Zlatan's name, rallying behind him in a show of solidarity and support.
Michael Cole and Tazz were quick to comment on the boldness of Zlatan's challenge, their excitement palpable.
"Zlatan Ibrahimovic laying down the gauntlet!" Michael Cole exclaimed. "He's not just here to talk; he's ready to fight, and he's calling out Kurt Angle and Paul Heyman directly."
Tazz added, "This is what the WWE Universe loves about Zlatan. He's fearless, Cole. He doesn't back down, and he's ready to take on anyone, anytime. Kurt Angle and Paul Heyman have got to be listening, and they've got a decision to make."
The crowd's chants grew louder, a cacophony of support for Zlatan as he stood defiant in the ring, ready for whatever response his challenge might provoke. It was a testament to his character, his resolve, and his unwavering determination to face his adversaries head-on, making it clear that he was not just a contender for the WWE Championship, but a force to be reckoned with.
As the verbal confrontation between Zlatan Ibrahimovic and A-Train reached its climax, A-Train delivered his final message with a tone that suggested finality, yet lacked the intended intimidation. "Don't worry, Ibra. You'll see them enough. But you see, I got a message for you, from Kurt Angle himself. He's your judge, he's your jury, and come January 19 in Boston, he's your executioner."
Zlatan's response was immediate, his chuckle cutting through the tension in the arena. "Kurt Angle said this, Kurt Angle says that. Hell, son, why don't you head back with your tail between your legs before I open a can of whoop-ass on ya?" The confidence and defiance in Zlatan's voice were unmistakable, his demeanor unshaken by A-Train's threats.
"January 19, punk," A-Train shot back, a parting shot as he exited the ring, leaving Zlatan alone in the center of the squared circle.
Zlatan then took a moment to conclude his promo, addressing not just A-Train's retreat, but Kurt Angle and the entire WWE Universe. "It doesn't matter if Kurt Angle is my judge, jury, or executioner. I will walk out of Boston the WWE Champion, and I'll get the stay of execution. And Kurt Angle will see that the 'low-life thug' Zlatan Ibrahimovic will take the title from him and stick it up his ass. Oh, it's true. It's damn true."
With those final words, Zlatan dropped the microphone, his statement hanging in the air as a definitive declaration of his intentions and his confidence in overcoming the obstacles laid out by Kurt Angle and his associates. The WWE Universe erupted in cheers, fully behind Zlatan as he exited the ring, the opening segment of SmackDown coming to a powerful close.
Michael Cole and Tazz were quick to sum up the segment, their voices echoing the sentiment of the WWE Universe. "What a statement from Zlatan Ibrahimovic," Cole exclaimed, "He's made it clear he's not intimidated by Kurt Angle or anyone else. He's focused on one thing: walking out of the Royal Rumble as the WWE Champion."
Tazz added, "If I were Kurt Angle, I'd be watching my back. Zlatan's not just coming for the WWE Championship; he's coming to prove a point. And after what we've just heard, I have no doubt he's capable of backing up every word."
As the segment wrapped up, the message was clear: Zlatan Ibrahimovic was ready for the Royal Rumble, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, and more determined than ever to emerge victorious, capturing not just the WWE Championship but solidifying his legacy in the process.
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Later in the show, the atmosphere within the arena shifted as the three-time WWE Champion and current titleholder, Kurt Angle, made his way to the ring. Flanked by Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin, members of Team Angle, Kurt was poised to address the earlier comments made by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The audience, already riled up by the night's events, bristled with anticipation and, for many, a sense of defiance toward Angle.
As Kurt began his promo, he took a moment to reflect on his past partnership with Zlatan, particularly their time as tag team champions. "When we were tag team champions, let's not forget who the real star was," Kurt began, his tone dismissive. "I was the main event, while Zlatan was just a supporting player. A supporting player with an ego the size of Arizona and, let's be honest, some of the sports teams here that haven't won anything. They're nothing but hype," he said, drawing a chorus of boos from the crowd, who were quick to defend their local teams and Zlatan's honor.
Kurt continued, addressing his history with Zlatan directly. "That win Zlatan had over me at Unforgiven last year? A fluke. He just got lucky. But let's not forget, I beat Zlatan in that 30-minute Iron Man match. So, we're even. And at the Royal Rumble, I'm going to win the tiebreaker," Kurt declared, his confidence unwavering.
He then drew on his own storied past to belittle Zlatan's achievements. "When I won the 1996 Olympic gold medal, Zlatan was just a teenager. That year, I proved that I am the greatest amateur wrestler this country has ever produced. And at the Royal Rumble, I'll prove just that by making Zlatan tap out. And I will still be your WWE Champion. Oh, it's true," Kurt concluded, dropping the microphone with a definitive thud before turning his attention to Charlie Haas, instructing him to beat Edge in his upcoming match.
As Kurt and Shelton exited the ring while Charlie Haas hype himself up for his match against Edge, Michael Cole and Tazz took a moment to digest Angle's words and consider their implications. "Kurt Angle didn't hold back tonight, laying out his history with Zlatan and making it clear he intends to remain WWE Champion," Michael Cole noted, his voice reflecting the gravity of Kurt's statements.
Tazz chimed in, adding, "Ibrahimovic has to be watching this, Cole. Kurt's words weren't just a challenge; they were a statement. But knowing Zlatan, he's not the type to back down. This feud is far from over, and if I were Kurt Angle, I'd be preparing for the fight of my life at the Royal Rumble."
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The match between Chris Benoit and Shelton Benjamin, two of the WWE's most skilled athletes, had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats. However, the competition spiraled into chaos when it ended in a disqualification win for Benoit. This outcome set the stage for a tumultuous showdown as Team Angle and Benoit clashed in an all-out brawl that quickly engulfed the ring.
Despite the valiant efforts from Edge and Benoit to fend off their attackers, the numerical advantage of Team Angle began to overwhelm them. The scene turned even more sinister when Charlie Haas, demonstrating his loyalty to Kurt Angle, retrieved a steel chair from ringside and tossed it to his mentor. With the weapon in hand, Angle wasted no time in using it to devastating effect on both Benoit and Edge, laying them out with brutal chair shots that echoed through the arena.
But Angle wasn't content with just physical dominance; he sought to send a chilling message directly to Zlatan Ibrahimovic. With Benoit prone and vulnerable, Angle locked in the ankle lock, wrenching it with a ferocity that left Benoit writhing in pain. Haas and Benjamin added insult to injury, mocking Benoit by forcing his hand to hit the mat three times in a simulated tap-out, all while keeping a vigilant watch for any potential rescue from the back.
"Look at this, Tazz," Michael Cole exclaimed, his voice a mixture of disbelief and disgust. "Team Angle is dismantling Benoit and Edge, and Kurt Angle is using this moment to send a clear message to Zlatan Ibrahimovic ahead of their showdown at the Royal Rumble."
Tazz, equally appalled by the display, added, "This is a textbook example of the numbers game, Cole. And that ankle lock? That's a direct threat to Zlatan. Angle's making it clear he plans to break Zlatan down, just like he's doing to Benoit right now."
As Team Angle stood tall in the ring, their message was clear: they were united, dominant, and ready to do whatever it took to ensure Kurt Angle's victory at the Royal Rumble. The scene was a stark warning to Zlatan Ibrahimovic of what awaited him in Boston in just 10 days.
In an electrifying turn of events that left the WWE Universe in Tucson on the edge of their seats, the lights suddenly went out in the arena, casting everything into darkness. This sudden blackout, reminiscent of the previous week's dramatics, had Team Angle on edge, scanning the shadows for any sign of Zlatan Ibrahimovic's ambush. Their tension was palpable, a testament to the mind games Zlatan had effectively played thus far.
However, as the lights flickered back to life, the focus wasn't on the rafters or behind Team Angle but rather on a seemingly innocuous cameraman at ringside. To the shock and delight of the fans, the cameraman tossed aside his camera, removed his wig, and revealed himself to be none other than Zlatan himself. The crowd erupted into cheers, their excitement reaching a fever pitch as Zlatan stealthily entered the ring, ready to confront his adversaries.
"Look at this, Tazz! The Lion of Rosengård has outsmarted Team Angle once again!" Michael Cole exclaimed, his voice tinged with disbelief and excitement.
Without missing a beat, Zlatan waited for the perfect moment to strike. Shelton Benjamin, unaware of the imminent danger, turned around only to be met with the devastating Lion's Roar, Zlatan's signature move. Charlie Haas, attempting to come to his teammate's aid, charged at Zlatan but found himself on the receiving end of another Lion's Roar. The Tucson crowd roared in approval as Zlatan stood tall over his foes, a clear message sent not just to Team Angle but to the entire WWE Universe.
"But Zlatan's not done yet!" Tazz noted, as Zlatan dragged both Haas and Benjamin outside the ring. In a display of sheer dominance, Zlatan stripped the announce table and placed Shelton on it. Then, with a calculated precision, he set Haas up for a bomb and drove him through Shelton and the announce table, leaving both men in ruins. The WWE Universe watched in awe as Zlatan executed this breathtaking maneuver, solidifying his status as a formidable force.
Kurt Angle and Paul Heyman could only look on in dread from the entrance stage, the WWE Championship still around Angle's waist but their confidence visibly shaken. Zlatan, not content with just physical dominance, made a symbolic gesture by holding up four fingers and then narrowing it down to two, signaling "Two down, two to go," with a cutthroat taunt aimed directly at Paul Heyman, indicating he was next on Zlatan's list.
"Heyman's face says it all, Cole. He knows he's in Zlatan's crosshairs now," Tazz observed, highlighting the fear apparent in Heyman's expression.
As Angle and Heyman made a tactical retreat, their demeanor akin to that of a pack of hyenas outnumbered and outmaneuvered, the WWE Universe's cheers for Zlatan reached a crescendo. Michael Cole and Tazz summed up the moment perfectly, encapsulating the significance of Zlatan's actions.
"Tonight, Zlatan Ibrahimovic sent a message that will resonate all the way to the Royal Rumble. He's not just a contender; he's a force to be reckoned with," Cole declared, his voice echoing the sentiment of the WWE Universe.
Tazz added, "Angle and Heyman better strategize because Zlatan's coming for them, and after what we just witnessed, it's clear he's ready for war."
As SmackDown continued, the implications of Zlatan's bold actions reverberated throughout the arena. The WWE Universe was left buzzing with anticipation, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this escalating saga as the road to the Royal Rumble promised more twists, turns, and unforgettable moments.