The Rise of the Lion

by IAmMattis

Watch Zlatan Ibrahimovic's journey from being a young soccer player to wrestling icon overseas with WWF later known as WWE. I don't own rights to wwe or Zlatan as he is a real life person. it's a AU story. I can't add Zlatan in the pairing so I'm going to listen him as original character. it's a gradual build up of romance between Zlatan and Trish.

49. Iron Man

November 28, 2002. SmackDown Live, Columbia, South Carolina.

The backstage area of the Colonial Life Arena buzzed with energy, a pulse of tension running through every corner as the SmackDown crew prepared for one of the most anticipated matches of the year. Tonight's main event wasn't just any match; it was a 30-minute Iron Man bout between Zlatan Ibrahimović and Kurt Angle, two former WWE Tag Team Champions now set to battle for a chance at the WWE Title atArmageddon. The winner would earn the right to face the dominant Big Show for the championship.

Among the clamor, two familiar figures moved methodically through the backstage maze—Chuck Palumbo and Farooq, the unofficial collectors of the locker room's bets. The duo was making their rounds, chatting up everyone from superstars to divas, taking wagers on who would emerge victorious in the high-stakes clash.

Trailing behind them was Funaki, ever diligent, jotting down names and numbers as they went from one superstar to the next. He made sure every bet was recorded with precision, his small notebook quickly filling up with scribbled predictions.

Chuck Palumbo, towering with his thick Italian accent, stopped first at Albert, who was warming up for his own match later that night.

"Hey, big man, who's your money on tonight?" Chuck asked with a grin. "Zlatan or Kurt Angle?"

Albert, all muscle and tattoos, didn't hesitate. "I'm going with Zlatan," he said with a chuckle. "That bridged sharpshooter he slapped on Stone Cold at King of the Ring—that was a masterpiece. Kid's got serious skill."

Farooq, always the straight shooter, had moved on to Bill DeMott, who was sitting on a crate, stretching his legs.

"Demott," Farooq began in his gruff voice, "what's your pick for the Iron Man match? You a Zlatan guy or riding with Angle?"

DeMott crossed his arms, thinking for a second before responding. "Kurt Angle, no question. The man's a wrestling machine. Gold medals don't lie."

As the pair made their rounds, the betting frenzy grew. They stopped by Edge and Rey Mysterio, then over to the Guerreros, Jamie Noble, and John Cena. The stakes were rising as the night went on, and so were the bets.

John Cena, just beginning to carve out his place on the roster, smirked as he handed Funaki his bet slip. "Zlatan's all hype, but I think Angle's gonna school him tonight."

Torrie Wilson, Nidia, and Dawn Marie added their own predictions to the mix, each picking sides with growing excitement. Funaki's pen scratched furiously against his notepad, keeping up with the flow of wagers.

Chuck glanced over at Funaki as they paused in their collection. "How's the tally looking, Funaki?" he asked, leaning in as if expecting some secret revelation.

Funaki adjusted his glasses, flipping back through the notes. "So far, we've got bets on both Zlatan and Kurt Angle," he said, his tone professional, as if he were reporting for hisSmackDowncorrespondent duties. "It's pretty evenly split. Zlatan's the up-and-comer, but Kurt's got the experience."

Farooq, with his arms crossed, added his own bit of insight. "Don't forget the free tip, folks," he said, addressing the nearby wrestlers with a grin. "Both these guys made Stone Cold tap out before. That's gotta mean something. You can't go wrong with either one."

The atmosphere backstage grew thick with anticipation. With each bet collected, the excitement escalated. Every superstar, from the Guerreros to the divas, from Noble to Cena, knew what was at stake. The Iron Man match wasn't just another main event; it was the culmination of months of tension, athleticism, and ambition.

As Chuck, Farooq, and Funaki wrapped up their rounds, the murmurs of bets being placed and predictions made continued to spread. Everyone had an opinion on the clash between the young, hungry Zlatan and the seasoned, battle-tested Kurt Angle. It was the kind of match that had the entire locker room talking, waiting to see who would emerge as the next contender for WWE's top prize.

With their pockets filled with bets and the locker room buzzing, the collectors nodded to each other, knowing they'd set the stage for what was bound to be an unforgettable night. SmackDown was live, and the Iron Man match was about to leave its mark.

XXXX

As the familiar opening notes of Kurt Angle's entrance theme, Medal, began to thunder through the speakers. The crowd instantly turned their attention toward the entrance stage, knowing full well that one of WWE's most decorated athletes was about to make his appearance. The tension, already thick in the air, grew even heavier as fans rose to their feet, anticipating the arrival of the Olympic gold medalist.

As the curtain parted, Kurt Angle appeared with the trademark intensity that had made him one of the greatest wrestlers in WWE history. Dressed in his classic camo singlet and with his gold medals draped proudly around his neck, Angle stepped onto the stage, his eyes laser-focused on the ring ahead. The "You suck!" chants from the crowd, a chant Angle had been hearing for over a year, echoed throughout the arena. But tonight, those words were little more than white noise to the veteran. He had grown used to the crowd's jeers, and in some twisted way, it fueled him.

Kurt paused briefly at the top of the ramp, taking a deep breath and adjusting his medals before marching down to the ring. The You suck! chants intensified as he walked, but his focus never wavered. He was in the zone. Tonight was about more than just a match—it was about proving, once again, that no one in WWE could outlast, outwork, or outwrestle him.

In the ring, Tony Chimel raised the microphone to his lips, his voice booming across the arena. "The following contest is a 30-minute Iron Man match! Introducing first, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, weighing in at 237 pounds, Kurt Angle!"

The crowd erupted again as Kurt made his way up the steel steps, entering the ring with his usual precision and grace. His face remained a mask of concentration as he leaned against the ropes, doing a few last-minute stretches. He had done this countless times before, but there was something about tonight that felt different. This was a match that would test him on every level—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

At the commentary desk, Michael Cole and Tazz picked up on Angle's focused demeanor.

"Kurt Angle, folks, a Grand Slam champion," Michael Cole said with admiration. "He's a former WWE Champion, an Intercontinental Champion, a Tag Team Champion, and of course, an Olympic gold medalist. Tonight, he's stepping into a match that's designed to push every competitor to their absolute limit. Thirty minutes of non-stop action—it's a match that tests your stamina, your will, and your ability to adapt."

Tazz, always the more blunt analyst, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, no doubt about it, Cole. Angle thrives on this kinda pressure. Iron Man matches? That's where he lives. The guy's a freakin' machine. He's built for this. He knows how to wrestle, how to brawl, and most importantly, he knows how to pace himself."

As Kurt continued to stretch, his eyes never left the entrance stage. He was waiting for Zlatan Ibrahimović, the man many believed could upset him tonight. This wasn't just any match—this was a 30-minute war, and Angle was prepared to fight until his very last breath.

The arena buzzed with anticipation as the crowd waited for the next moment—the entrance of Zlatan, a man just as determined and dangerous. But right now, all eyes were on Kurt Angle, the Olympic hero, the wrestling machine, and a man who was ready to do whatever it took to walk out victorious.

The pulsating beat of The Lion by RZA and GZA reverberated through the arena, and the WWE Universe erupted into a frenzy. The energy inside the Colonial Life Arena skyrocketed as the crowd prepared to witness the entrance of one of WWE's fastest-rising stars. On the entrance stage, with his back to the crowd, stood Zlatan Ibrahimović, arms outstretched, fists clenched in a powerful, triumphant pose. His posture exuded confidence and intensity, the silhouette of a man who believed he was destined for greatness.

The camera zoomed in, capturing the smoldering focus in his eyes as he held the pose for a few moments longer, allowing the anticipation to build. The crowd's cheers grew louder, with chants of "Zlatan!" echoing across the arena, signaling just how quickly this man had won over the WWE audience.

Tony Chimel's voice boomed over the speakers, introducing the Swedish sensation. "And his opponent, from Malmö, Sweden, weighing in at 255 pounds—Zlatan Ibrahimović!"

As Chimel finished, Zlatan spun around with a flourish, pumping his fist into the air in rhythm with the beat of his theme song. His trademark smirk was plastered across his face as he confidently strode down the aisle, eyes locked on the ring where Kurt Angle awaited him. Dressed in his signature blue and yellow tights, a nod to his Swedish heritage, Zlatan looked every bit the athlete who had taken WWE by storm.

Michael Cole's voice picked up at the commentary desk, barely able to contain the excitement in his tone. "I don't think I've ever seen a rise quite like this, Tazz. In just eight months, Zlatan Ibrahimović has gone from a relative unknown to one of the most talked-about superstars on SmackDown! He's a former Intercontinental Champion, a WWE Tag Team Champion, and now, tonight, he's just one win away from earning a shot at the WWE Title at Armageddon in three and a half weeks!"

Tazz, ever the analyst, nodded. "Yeah, Cole, no doubt about it. Zlatan's a freakin' natural. He's got the strength, he's got the technique, and he's got that insane confidence that makes him dangerous. But let's not forget, he's up against Kurt Angle tonight. That's a whole other level of competition."

Zlatan continued his walk down the aisle, soaking in the energy of the crowd. His eyes occasionally darted toward fans holding signs, some of which read Lionheart Zlatan and Next WWE Champion. He took his time, his movements deliberate, like a predator stalking its prey, knowing full well that every moment counted.

As he approached the ring, Zlatan paused at the steel steps, glancing at Kurt Angle, who remained focused inside the ropes, already in battle mode. Zlatan smirked, knowing that this was the moment that would define him. With a swift leap, he ascended the steps and entered the ring, stepping into the lion's den with one of the best wrestlers in WWE history.

Zlatan raised his arms once more, soaking in the deafening cheers from the crowd. The spotlight was on him, and he was more than ready to deliver.

The tension between Zlatan and Kurt Angle was palpable as they stared each other down from opposite corners of the ring. The time for talk was over. In just moments, they would begin their 30-minute Iron Man match—a test of endurance, skill, and sheer will. With a shot at the WWE Championship on the line, both men knew they were stepping into a war.

Referee Brian Hebner, the man assigned to oversee this high-stakes contest, stepped between the two warriors, raising his arms slightly to separate them as they drew closer. Hebner, a seasoned official, knew the gravity of the match ahead and the importance of keeping things under control.

Holding the iconic WWE referee stance, Hebner began to go through the rules with both competitors, his voice clear yet firm amidst the deafening roar of the crowd.

"Alright, gentlemen," Hebner started, his eyes shifting between Kurt and Zlatan, "this is a 30-minute Iron Man match. The competitor with the most falls—pinfalls, submissions, count-outs, or disqualifications—at the end of the 30 minutes will be declared the winner and will advance to face the WWE Champion, Big Show, at Armageddon."

Both men nodded, their focus never breaking from one another as Hebner continued.

"In the event of a tie after 30 minutes, the match will go to sudden death overtime, and the first fall will win. Do you both understand?"

Kurt Angle, ever the professional, gave a curt nod, his jaw clenched, eyes piercing as he stood just inches from Zlatan, who radiated a cool confidence. Zlatan, fists clenched and muscles coiled with anticipation, nodded back. His smirk was gone now, replaced by a determined glare.

Hebner's voice grew firmer as he laid down his final instructions. "I expect a clean match. You know the rules—let's keep it that way. Break when I tell you to break, and protect yourselves at all times. May the best man win."

The tension in the ring was nearly suffocating as the two competitors nodded in acknowledgment. Hebner stepped back, his eyes darting between the two, sensing the eruption of action that was about to unfold before he called for the bell.

The sound of the bell rang loud and clear, officially beginning the 30-minute Iron Man match between Zlatan Ibrahimović and Kurt Angle. The arena buzzed with excitement as the two competitors circled each other, the tension palpable.

At the commentary desk, Michael Cole was quick to remind the audience of the history between the two athletes. "This is a rematch from Unforgiven, folks, where Zlatan Ibrahimović made Kurt Angle tap out in front of the world in Los Angeles. And tonight, Zlatan is looking to repeat that feat and head to Armageddon to face Big Show for the WWE Championship."

Tazz, sitting next to Cole, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Cole, these two know each other inside and out. Remember, they were WWE Tag Team Champions not too long ago, but that partnership went up in flames after losing the titles to Edge and Mysterio at Survivor Series just over a week ago. Both of these guys are insanely competitive, and when their egos clashed, that was the end of the team. Now they're back to being bitter enemies."

Cole jumped back in, adding, "It was definitely an ego problem. Neither man could handle playing second fiddle."

In the ring, Zlatan and Kurt slowly approached each other, their bodies tense, ready for battle. They locked up in a collar-and-elbow tie-up, their muscles straining as they jockeyed for position. Both men pushed and leaned into each other, trying to gain an early advantage. But Zlatan, with his superior size and strength, managed to overpower Angle, forcing him back into the corner.

Referee Brian Hebner quickly stepped in, calling for a clean break. "Break it up, gentlemen!" he commanded, his voice cutting through the roar of the crowd.

Zlatan, always composed but exuding confidence, backed away with his hands raised. He took a few steps backward, his eyes never leaving Kurt, as if daring him to try again. A smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth—a trademark mind game from the Lion of Rosengård.

As they circled each other once more, ready to lock up again, Zlatan suddenly slapped Kurt Angle across the face, the sound of the impact echoing throughout the arena. The crowd gasped at the audacity of the strike, while Angle's head snapped to the side.

The camera caught Angle's reaction perfectly—his eyes widened in shock, followed quickly by a fiery rage. Zlatan stood tall, almost casually shrugging as if the slap was nothing, but it was clear that the mind games were in full swing. The Lion of Rosengård was asserting dominance early on, trying to get under Kurt's skin.

Tazz chuckled at the move. "Oh-ho! There you go, Cole! That's Zlatan messing with Kurt's head. The guy's got a huge ego, and he loves playing those psychological games. A slap like that? It's disrespectful, no doubt about it, but it's also strategy."

Michael Cole chimed in, "Absolutely, Tazz. Zlatan's always been a master at getting in his opponent's head. But Kurt Angle—he's a veteran. He's not going to let a slap throw him off his game. If anything, that's going to fire him up even more."

And fired up Kurt was. He glared at Zlatan with intensity, his face flushed with anger as he shook off the sting of the slap. The match had only just begun, but already, both men were laying the groundwork for what would be an all-out war. The crowd could feel the shift in the atmosphere—the calm had broken, and now the storm was about to unleash.

Kurt Angle clenched his fists, his breathing heavy as he stepped forward, ready to give Zlatan a taste of his own medicine. The battle was on, and the next 30 minutes were going to test both men like never before.

With the sting of Zlatan's slap still fresh on his cheek, a fired-up Kurt Angle wasted no time retaliating. He swiftly went behind Zlatan, securing a waist lock, his grip tight as he worked to bring the Swedish powerhouse down to the mat. Angle's background in mat wrestling was unmatched, and even with Zlatan's strength, Kurt was in his element.

Zlatan struggled against Angle's grip, initially finding it difficult to break free from the Olympic gold medalist's expert hold. But Zlatan wasn't just strong—he was smart. Using his size advantage, he regained his vertical base, planting his feet firmly on the mat. In one fluid motion, Zlatan grabbed hold of Kurt's right hand, twisting his body to reverse the situation, transitioning into a hammerlock. The crowd buzzed with appreciation, impressed by Zlatan's technical prowess.

Tazz at the commentary desk was quick to point it out. "Look at that, Cole! Zlatan's showing he's not just a striker—he can wrestle, too! That hammerlock is tight!"

But Kurt Angle wasn't to be outdone. With a quick burst of energy and a masterful reversal, Kurt slipped out of the hammerlock and transitioned into a side headlock takedown, bringing Zlatan back down to the mat. Angle cranked on the hold, squeezing Zlatan's head tightly between his bicep and shoulder, looking to wear him down.

Zlatan, never one to stay on the defensive for long, shifted his weight and used his legs to wrap them around Angle's neck, countering with a leg scissors hold. The crowd cheered at the rapid chain wrestling on display, the back-and-forth leaving no time for either man to gain a clear advantage.

"Zlatan with a leg scissors!" Michael Cole exclaimed. "This has turned into a real technical showcase early on. These two are evenly matched in ways we didn't expect."

Angle, ever the technician, expertly wiggled out of the leg scissors and popped back to his feet, unleashing a flurry of right hands. The first punch connected flush with Zlatan's jaw, followed by another, and another, forcing Zlatan back toward the ropes. Kurt's intensity was undeniable, his strikes coming fast and furious.

Zlatan, however, wasn't fazed for long. Blocking Angle's next strike, Zlatan responded with a barrage of his own right hands, reminding everyone why he was considered one of the most dangerous strikers in WWE. His punches were quick, precise, and brutal, each one landing with a sickening thud. Angle staggered backward, caught off guard by the sheer power behind Zlatan's blows.

Tazz was quick to comment on Zlatan's striking ability. "That's what makes Zlatan so dangerous, Cole. Those hands! He can go from grappling to knocking your teeth out in a second."

Just as Zlatan was about to throw another devastating right hand, Kurt instinctively ducked under it, diving toward Zlatan's legs and going for his signature ankle lock. The crowd gasped as Angle grabbed hold of Zlatan's foot, twisting his ankle in a move that had made many superstars tap out over the years.

But Zlatan wasn't about to go down that easily. Showing incredible agility for a man of his size, Zlatan twisted his body and countered the ankle lock into his own submission attempt—the Malmö Bridge, a variation of the sharpshooter. The crowd erupted as Zlatan quickly tried to apply the hold, bending Kurt's legs backward as he dropped down to lock it in.

"Zlatan's going for the Malmö Bridge! He's looking to make Kurt tap out again, just like at Unforgiven!" Michael Cole shouted over the cheers of the audience.

But Kurt Angle, ever the ring veteran, scrambled toward the ropes before Zlatan could fully secure the hold. Kurt grabbed the bottom rope with both hands, forcing referee Brian Hebner to call for a break.

"Angle gets to the ropes! That's the awareness of an Olympic champion right there," Tazz remarked. "Zlatan almost had him, but Kurt knew exactly where he was."

Zlatan released the hold, but the smirk on his face said it all—he had gotten under Angle's skin. Both men backed off, catching their breath as the crowd roared in approval. The opening minutes of the Iron Man match had been a technical and striking masterclass, and it was only the beginning.

As Zlatan and Kurt Angle circled each other in the ring, both men's eyes locked with intensity, each plotting their next move. The energy in the arena was electric, and every fan knew they were witnessing something special—a true clash of styles, technique, and wills.

Michael Cole, watching the match unfold from the commentary desk, was quick to note the potential danger Kurt faced if he continued trading strikes with Zlatan. "Kurt Angle cannot afford to go toe-to-toe with Zlatan when it comes to striking," Cole remarked. "Zlatan's striking ability is second to none here in WWE. One wrong move, and Kurt could find himself on the wrong end of a knockout."

Tazz, always ready with his unique insight, added more context. "No doubt, Cole. But let's not forget, Zlatan isn't just a striker. The guy's got stamina and great technique to back it up. Remember, he was a professional soccer player back home in Sweden, and those guys run for 90 minutes straight. Zlatan can go the distance in this match, no problem."

The two men continued to circle each other, the crowd growing louder with anticipation. Zlatan, known for his superior conditioning and brutal striking, was clearly looking to use his reach and power to wear down Kurt. Meanwhile, Angle, ever the strategist, knew he couldn't let Zlatan dictate the pace with those dangerous fists and feet. The next few minutes would be crucial in determining who would gain the upper hand in this high-stakes contest.

Inside the ring, Zlatan tested Kurt with a few feints, his fists at the ready. The smirk that had played across his face earlier was gone, replaced with a focused determination. Angle remained cautious, knowing full well that one wrong step could spell disaster. Zlatan's reputation as a world-class athlete, with stamina to spare, was well earned.

"That's what makes Zlatan so dangerous in a match like this," Tazz continued. "He can grind you down with his strikes, but he's also got the stamina to outlast you. The guy used to run up and down the soccer field for 90 minutes—30 minutes in this Iron Man match is like a walk in the park for him."

Kurt Angle, aware of this looming threat, adjusted his stance. He knew that wrestling Zlatan to the mat would be his best chance at survival. If he let Zlatan turn this into a brawl, his chances of winning would drastically diminish. But for now, both men circled, searching for the opening that would swing the match in their favor.

The tension inside the ring heightened as Zlatan Ibrahimović and Kurt Angle locked up once again. Zlatan, with his size and strength, quickly transitioned into a side headlock, squeezing down with his powerful grip. Angle, ever the technician, struggled to break free, but Zlatan had the clear advantage in this moment, using his size to control the Olympic gold medalist.

Michael Cole, observing the action, was quick to point it out. "Zlatan using his size to his advantage here. Kurt Angle, as decorated as he is, is having a hard time getting out of this headlock."

Kurt, realizing he needed to escape before the hold could wear him down, managed to plant his feet and push Zlatan toward the ropes. With a burst of energy, Kurt whipped Zlatan off the ropes, but as Zlatan rebounded, he barreled into Angle with a massive shoulder knockdown, sending Kurt crashing to the mat.

"Big shoulder knockdown by Zlatan Ibrahimović!" Cole exclaimed. "That size advantage is going to play a huge role in this match."

Tazz chimed in, "No doubt, Cole. Zlatan's got at least 20 pounds on Angle, and he knows how to use it."

Zlatan wasted no time, bouncing off the ropes again, looking to follow up on the momentum. As he came charging back, Angle, with his lightning-fast reflexes, ducked under Zlatan's feet, letting him pass overhead. The crowd roared in anticipation as Angle sprang to his feet, ready for the next move.

Angle went for a hip toss, hoping to use Zlatan's momentum against him. But Zlatan blocked the attempt, planting his feet firmly on the mat. In an instant, Zlatan countered with a roll-up pin!

Hebner dropped down for the count.

1… 2… But Angle reversed it, using his technical prowess to roll Zlatan over into his own pin.

1… 2… Zlatan kicked out, but not to be outdone, he reversed it again, rolling Angle into another pin attempt.

1… 2… Angle, showing incredible agility, reversed it into a sunset flip, pulling Zlatan over into another pin attempt.

1… 2… Zlatan reversed the sunset flip into one of his own!

1… 2… The crowd was on their feet now, the rapid-fire exchanges dizzying in their intensity. Angle kicked out, but immediately countered with a bridge pin, arching his back and pulling Zlatan into another cover.

1… 2… Zlatan, using his incredible upper body strength, countered yet again, this time transitioning into a backslide pin, pushing Angle's shoulders down onto the mat.

1… 2… Angle kicked out just before the three-count, the crowd collectively gasping at the near fall.

"This is incredible!" Michael Cole shouted. "What a series of pinfalls! These two are putting on a clinic here."

Tazz, just as excited, added, "They're going hold for hold, Cole! You can't blink, or you'll miss something. Both these guys want that first fall, and they're pulling out all the stops."

As both men scrambled to their feet, the fans inside the Colonial Life Arena erupted with applause. The exchange had showcased the technical brilliance of Kurt Angle and the sheer athleticism of Zlatan Ibrahimović. Neither man had secured the first fall, but they had certainly given the crowd a taste of what was to come

After the intense back-and-forth exchange of pinfalls, Kurt Angle shifted gears, looking to take control of the match. He knew that outmuscling Zlatan Ibrahimović wasn't a winning strategy—he needed to rely on his technical mastery and mat wrestling expertise to slow down the larger competitor. With this in mind, Angle decided to lure Zlatan into a false sense of security.

The two circled each other again, but this time Kurt extended his arms, seemingly offering a lock-up. Zlatan, ever confident, stepped forward, ready to engage once more. But as soon as Zlatan committed, Angle struck. With a sudden and unexpected knee to Zlatan's midsection, Angle drove the air out of his opponent's lungs.

"Classic Kurt Angle!" Michael Cole exclaimed. "He lured Zlatan in, and just like that, he's back in control!"

As Zlatan doubled over, clutching his gut, Kurt quickly capitalized. In one fluid motion, Angle grabbed Zlatan's arm and executed a textbook arm drag, sending the larger man crashing to the mat. Before Zlatan could react, Kurt immediately followed up by applying an armbar, wrenching Zlatan's arm and keeping him grounded.

Tazz jumped in on commentary, his voice filled with approval. "That's smart, Cole! Kurt Angle's a master technician. He knows if he keeps the big man down, Zlatan can't use his striking or his power game. He's working that arm, trying to wear Zlatan down."

Angle locked the armbar in tight, positioning himself perfectly to keep Zlatan from using his size or strength to escape. The pain etched across Zlatan's face told the story—Angle's experience in submission wrestling was showing, and he was intent on slowing the pace of the match.

Michael Cole added, "Kurt Angle needs to keep Zlatan grounded if he wants to control this match. And right now, he's doing exactly that. Working on the arm, keeping the bigger man down—this is the strategy that could win him the first fall."

Zlatan, feeling the pressure of the armbar, gritted his teeth, struggling to find a way out. His legs kicked against the mat, but Angle had the hold firmly applied, keeping his weight pressed down on Zlatan's chest to maintain control. The crowd was split—some chanting for Zlatan to break free, others cheering for Kurt to maintain his advantage.

Angle twisted the arm further, applying more pressure, determined to weaken Zlatan's upper body strength. Zlatan tried to roll to his side, but Kurt kept him pinned, methodically working the hold as the clock continued to tick down.

In the middle of the ring, Zlatan's mind raced. He needed to break free, but Angle's ironclad grip wasn't easy to shake. The longer he stayed grounded, the harder it would be to regain the momentum he had earlier in the match. But Zlatan wasn't one to give up easily—he just needed the right moment.

For now, Angle had the upper hand, and with every second that passed, he was wearing down the Lion of Rosengård, bringing the match closer to his domain: technical wrestling and submissions.

Zlatan Ibrahimović, trapped in Kurt Angle's meticulously applied armbar, began to grit his teeth as the pain shot through his shoulder. His immense size and strength were neutralized by the Olympic gold medalist's precise control, but Zlatan wasn't one to be kept down for long. Determined to break free, Zlatan started shifting his weight, pushing himself off the mat and slowly regaining his vertical base.

The crowd rallied behind him, sensing that the Lion of Rosengård was about to make his move.

Tazz at the commentary desk was quick to point out the moment. "Zlatan's getting back to his feet, Cole! He's not gonna stay down long if he can help it."

As Zlatan stood upright, he used his size advantage to reverse the armbar into a hammerlock, twisting Angle's arm behind his back. But Angle, always the ring veteran, didn't give Zlatan time to fully secure the hold. With a quick, sharp forearm shot, Angle stopped Zlatan in his tracks, driving the blow into his jaw and regaining control.

"Great counter by Angle," Michael Cole exclaimed. "Every time Zlatan tries to gain the upper hand, Kurt finds a way to keep him grounded."

Without hesitation, Angle reapplied the armbar, once again wrenching down on Zlatan's arm, determined to prevent the Swedish powerhouse from using his devastating striking and power-based moveset. Angle's game plan was clear—wear down Zlatan's arm, take away his weapons, and control the pace of the match.

Zlatan winced, but his willpower remained unbroken. With a deep breath, he began pushing up again, forcing himself back to a standing position. He swung a wild right hand at Angle, trying to break free, but Kurt, ever the technician, ducked under the blow and quickly went behind Zlatan, locking his arms around the waist for a German suplex.

The crowd erupted in anticipation as Angle prepared to send Zlatan crashing to the mat. But just as Kurt executed the move, Zlatan used his agility, flipping through the air and landing on his feet with grace that belied his size. Angle, oblivious to what had just happened, popped back to his feet, expecting Zlatan to be laid out behind him.

Instead, when Kurt turned around, he was met with the sight of Zlatan standing tall, unscathed, with a confident smirk on his face. The crowd roared with approval, impressed by Zlatan's athleticism.

"Are you kidding me?!" Michael Cole shouted, astonished. "Zlatan landed on his feet! That's the kind of agility you wouldn't expect from a man his size!"

Tazz was just as impressed. "Yeah, that's that soccer player background, Cole. The guy moves like a cruiserweight!"

Before Kurt could process what had just happened, Zlatan acted fast. Angle, with frustration etched across his face, charged at Zlatan, looking to regain control. But Zlatan was ready, and with a quick-thinking maneuver, he pulled down the top rope, low-bridging the incoming Angle.

Kurt tumbled over the ropes, falling hard to the outside as the crowd gasped at the sudden change in momentum.

"Angle's on the outside!" Cole called, the excitement building. "Zlatan just turned this match around!"

Zlatan stood tall in the ring, his smirk growing wider as he looked down at Angle, who was slowly getting to his feet outside the ring. The Lion of Rosengård had weathered the storm of submissions, and now, the momentum was firmly back in his corner. The crowd's anticipation grew—what would Zlatan do next to keep the advantage?

With Kurt Angle on the outside, the crowd's excitement reached a fever pitch as Zlatan Ibrahimović took a few steps back into the ring, eyeing his target like a predator stalking its prey. The Lion of Rosengård had turned the tide, and now he was ready to take full control of the match.

Zlatan sprinted toward the ropes, the crowd roaring in anticipation of the high-flying move he was about to attempt. His eyes locked on Angle, who was still recovering on the outside. As Zlatan approached the ropes, it appeared he was going for a suicide dive—one of his signature showboating moves that had won over the WWE Universe.

But Angle, the veteran, had scouted it. Knowing Zlatan's tendency to showboat, Angle wisely dropped to the floor, dodging what he assumed would be a spectacular dive from his opponent. The crowd gasped, some booing in frustration as they believed Angle had outsmarted Zlatan.

Tazz at commentary, ever impressed with Angle's instincts, chimed in. "Look at that, Cole! Kurt Angle saw it coming! That's why he's an Olympic gold medalist—he's always one step ahead!"

Michael Cole, though hesitant, added, "You're right, Tazz. Angle knew what Zlatan was going for and got out of the way."

But it was all part of Zlatan's plan.

As Angle rose to his feet on the outside, thinking he had avoided the worst, Zlatan showed his own intelligence. Instead of flying over the ropes, Zlatan had slid underneath the bottom rope, gracefully landing outside the ring. The Lion of Rosengård stood tall behind Angle, his movement swift and unnoticed by his opponent.

Kurt, regaining his footing and assuming the threat had passed, turned around—and walked straight into a thunderous clothesline from Zlatan!

The impact of the blow sent Angle crashing to the ground, the sound of Zlatan's arm slamming into Kurt's chest reverberating throughout the arena. The crowd exploded in cheers as Zlatan stood tall over the fallen Olympic gold medalist, the momentum clearly back in his favor.

Michael Cole's voice rang out over the noise of the fans. "And just like that, Zlatan Ibrahimović is back in control! Angle thought he had him figured out, but Zlatan was two steps ahead!"

Tazz, now impressed with Zlatan's strategy, added, "That's the thing about Zlatan, Cole—he's not just brute force. The guy's smart. He knew exactly what Angle would do, and he played him like a fiddle."

Zlatan stood over Angle, looking down at his opponent with a smirk. The Lion of Rosengård had laid the perfect trap, and Kurt had fallen right into it. The crowd cheered in admiration of Zlatan's ability to think on his feet and outwit one of the greatest technical wrestlers in WWE history.

As the match continued outside the ring, the tension built. Zlatan had regained control, and now, he was ready to inflict more punishment on Kurt Angle. The question remained—how long could Angle endure the relentless onslaught from the Swedish powerhouse?

With Kurt Angle reeling on the outside after that devastating clothesline, Zlatan Ibrahimović wasn't about to let up. The Lion of Rosengård knew that to stay in control of this match, he had to keep the pressure on Angle and take advantage of every opportunity. The crowd watched intently as Zlatan reached down, grabbing a handful of Angle's singlet, and hauled him back up to his feet.

Zlatan, with a calculated look in his eyes, guided Angle toward the steel steps near the ring. Using his immense strength, Zlatan slammed Angle face-first into the cold, unforgiving steel. The sharp thud echoed throughout the arena as the crowd gasped at the impact. Angle stumbled back, dazed, as the pain shot through his head.

Tazz, clearly impressed, commented, "That's a smart move by Zlatan. He's using everything at his disposal. Those steel steps are like a weapon, and he's not afraid to use 'em!"

Michael Cole added, "Zlatan is showing no mercy, and that's what makes him so dangerous. Angle's in trouble here."

With Angle still dazed, Zlatan quickly followed up with a series of vicious knee strikes to Angle's midsection. Each strike was delivered with precision and power, forcing more air out of Angle's lungs and keeping him from catching his breath. Zlatan grinned as he pulled Angle in close, driving another knee into the Olympian's ribcage, each blow weakening Angle further.

But Zlatan wasn't done.

Sensing an opportunity to inflict even more damage, Zlatan dragged Angle toward the barricade surrounding the ring. With Angle barely able to stand, Zlatan whipped him hard into the steel barricade, the force of the impact causing Angle's body to collide with the barrier, his back arching in pain as he slumped to the floor.

The crowd, firmly behind Zlatan now, cheered as they saw the brutal effectiveness of his assault. The Lion of Rosengård had turned this match into a brawl, using every element of the environment to his advantage.

Zlatan, with a smirk, dragged Angle's limp body back toward the ring. He rolled Kurt under the bottom rope and quickly slid in after him. With Angle lying prone on the mat, Zlatan knew it was the perfect moment to go for the cover.

He dropped down, hooking Angle's leg and pressing his weight down on the Olympian's chest.

1… 2…

But at the last moment, Angle kicked out! The crowd let out a collective gasp, some cheering for Kurt's resilience while others were stunned by the near fall.

Michael Cole jumped in excitedly, "Angle kicks out at two! But what a smart move by Zlatan to go for the cover right away. He knows that the longer this match goes, the more it favors Kurt's experience and stamina."

Tazz agreed, "Yeah, Cole, it's a good strategy. Zlatan knows he's gotta keep Angle on the defensive. That quick cover forced Kurt to use energy just to stay in the match."

Zlatan, though momentarily frustrated by Angle's kickout, didn't let it shake him. He rose to his feet, towering over his opponent, knowing that he was still in control of the match. The Lion of Rosengård had Angle where he wanted him, and now it was time to continue the punishment.

The crowd buzzed with anticipation—Zlatan was far from finished, and the WWE Universe could sense that the worst was yet to come for Kurt Angle.

As Zlatan Ibrahimović stood tall, waiting patiently for Kurt Angle to rise to his feet, the atmosphere inside the arena grew electric. Zlatan, ever the predator, circled Angle like a lion waiting to strike, his eyes focused and unyielding. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, knowing that Zlatan was moments away from delivering another devastating blow.

At the commentary desk, Michael Cole took a moment to remind the viewers at home what was truly on the line. "Folks, let's not forget what's at stake here. The winner of this 30-minute Iron Man match gets a shot at the WWE Championship against the Big Show in just three weeks at Armageddon in Ft. Lauderdale. Both of these men know what that opportunity means, and they're willing to give everything they've got tonight to secure it."

Tazz chimed in, adding, "Yeah, Cole. Big Show's no joke, but first, one of these two has to survive this match. Right now, Zlatan's got the upper hand, but you can never count Kurt Angle out."

Inside the ring, Kurt Angle struggled to regain his footing, his body still feeling the effects of the brutal assault from Zlatan. Slowly, Angle pulled himself to his feet, the resilience that had made him a two-time WWE Champion on full display. But as soon as Angle was vertical, Zlatan made his move.

With lightning-quick precision, Zlatan clasped his hands around Angle's waist, his powerful arms locking the Olympic hero in place. In a swift and fluid motion, Zlatan hoisted Angle off the mat, throwing him overhead with a textbook belly-to-belly suplex. The crowd erupted as Angle's body crashed hard into the canvas, the impact reverberating through the ring.

"Belly-to-belly suplex from Zlatan!" Michael Cole shouted. "That's gotta be it! Zlatan's looking for the first fall in this Iron Man match!"

Zlatan wasted no time, immediately dropping down for the cover, hooking Angle's leg as referee Brian Hebner slid into position to make the count.

1… 2…

But Angle, with the heart of a champion, managed to get his shoulder up just before the referee's hand hit the mat for the third time. The crowd gasped, some cheering in admiration of Angle's tenacity, while others groaned in disbelief that Zlatan hadn't secured the first fall.

Tazz, sounding impressed, chimed in. "Angle kicks out again! That's the thing about Kurt, Cole—he's as tough as they come. Zlatan's throwing everything at him, but Angle's not gonna stay down that easily."

Zlatan sat up, momentarily frustrated that he hadn't scored the first decision of the match, but his face quickly shifted back to a look of cold determination. He knew the clock was still ticking, and there was plenty of time to wear Angle down further. The Lion of Rosengård was in control, and he wasn't about to let Angle off the hook.

Michael Cole summed up the situation perfectly. "Zlatan's been in control for much of this match, but Kurt Angle has been in these high-stakes situations before. The question is, how much longer can Angle hold out? And will Zlatan be able to capitalize before the clock runs out?"

With the match still in its early stages, both men knew that there was a long way to go. Zlatan had been close to securing the first fall, but Angle had denied him, showing the heart and resilience that had made him a legend in WWE. The battle was far from over, and the WWE Universe could feel that both men were only just getting started.

Zlatan Ibrahimović, still in control after Kurt Angle's miraculous kickout, wasn't about to let up. Determined to wear Angle down further, Zlatan grabbed a handful of Kurt's singlet and pulled him up to his feet once again. The Lion of Rosengård had his prey right where he wanted him, and he wasn't about to let the opportunity slip away.

Dragging Angle toward the corner, Zlatan displayed his power and dominance, forcing the Olympic gold medalist back against the turnbuckles. The crowd's excitement grew as Zlatan lined up his next move, his chest heaving with intensity.

With Angle trapped in the corner, Zlatan unleashed a brutal knife-edge chop across Kurt's chest. The sharp crack of flesh against flesh echoed through the arena, and the crowd let out a collective "Woo!" in homage to the legendary move.

Michael Cole winced audibly. "Did you hear that, Tazz? Zlatan's chops are echoing throughout the building!"

Tazz nodded, impressed. "Zlatan's showing no mercy, Cole. He's using those chops to light Angle up!"

Zlatan followed up with another devastating knife-edge chop, sending Kurt's chest red with the impact. Angle winced in pain, his body recoiling from the brutal strikes, but Zlatan wasn't done yet. He cocked his arm back and delivered a series of powerful elbow strikes, driving his forearm into Angle's head and neck with each blow. The crowd gasped with every strike, watching as Angle tried to cover up, but there was no escape from Zlatan's relentless onslaught.

The intensity was palpable as Zlatan pressed his advantage, hammering Angle with a series of elbows designed to break him down piece by piece. Angle, struggling to stay upright, gritted his teeth through the pain, his body absorbing each blow.

Michael Cole couldn't help but comment on the brutality. "Zlatan is absolutely punishing Kurt Angle in the corner! Those chops, those elbows—he's systematically breaking Angle down!"

Tazz chimed in, appreciating the tactics. "That's what Zlatan does, Cole. He's not just about power—he knows how to wear you down. He's using the corner to his advantage, and Angle's got nowhere to go."

With Angle slumped in the corner, his chest heaving from the assault, Zlatan took a step back, surveying the damage he had inflicted. The Lion of Rosengård had Kurt right where he wanted him, and the fans could sense that something big was about to happen.

With Kurt Angle trapped in the corner, the relentless assault from Zlatan Ibrahimović continued. Zlatan had battered Angle with chops, elbows, and sheer power, leaving him weakened. The Lion of Rosengård sensed that the time was right to finish the job and went for a suplex to further drive the point home.

But never count Kurt Angle out.

As Zlatan attempted to hook Angle for the suplex, the Olympic gold medalist summoned his experience and instincts, slipping out of Zlatan's grasp at the last possible second. Angle quickly pushed Zlatan forward, sending him into the ropes, and with lightning speed, Angle rolled him up from behind.

Referee Brian Hebner dropped to the mat for the count.

1… 2…

But Zlatan powered out, kicking out just before the referee's hand hit the mat for the third time. The near fall had the crowd on edge, some gasping in relief, others cheering for Angle's quick-thinking counter.

Michael Cole, his voice filled with excitement, called the action. "Angle with the roll-up! Almost had him there! Kurt Angle's experience just saved him from a brutal suplex."

Tazz, clearly impressed with both men, added, "That's the thing about Kurt, Cole. He's got that ring awareness. He may be getting beaten down, but he's always looking for a way to stay in the match."

Zlatan, clearly frustrated but not rattled, quickly got back to his feet. The quick roll-up hadn't caught him off guard for long, and he knew Angle would be coming right at him again. As Kurt tried to capitalize on the momentary shift in momentum, Zlatan was ready.

With a sudden burst of speed and precision, Zlatan swung his leg around and delivered a perfectly timed spin kick, catching Angle square on the jaw. The impact was brutal, sending Angle crashing down to the mat, dazed and disoriented from the strike. The crowd erupted in awe at Zlatan's agility and quick recovery, their cheers filling the arena.

"Wow!" Tazz shouted. "What a spin kick by Zlatan! Angle didn't see that one coming."

Michael Cole followed up, his voice charged with energy. "Just when you think Kurt's about to turn the tide, Zlatan fires back with that devastating spin kick! The power and athleticism of Zlatan are on full display here."

As Angle lay on the mat, clutching his head, Zlatan stood tall once more, his chest heaving as he took control of the match again. The Lion of Rosengård had shown not only his brute strength but also his ability to adapt in the heat of battle. He knew that Angle was dangerous at any moment, and this quick counter with the spin kick had firmly reestablished his dominance.

After landing the devastating spin kick, Zlatan Ibrahimović knew he had Kurt Angle right where he wanted him. The Olympic gold medalist was down, disoriented from the impact, and Zlatan was ready to turn up the pressure. Wasting no time, Zlatan dropped down beside Angle, applying a clutch submission hold, with his powerful arms focusing on Angle's vulnerable neck. To make matters worse, Zlatan pressed his knee into the small of Angle's back, intensifying the pain.

The clutch focused on Angle's surgically repaired neck, a target that had plagued him throughout his career. Zlatan knew this was where he could exploit the most damage. The crowd, sensing the danger Kurt was in, grew louder, unsure if Angle could escape the brutal submission hold.

In the center of the ring, Brian Hebner, always vigilant, crouched down next to Angle, his voice rising above the noise of the arena. "Kurt, do you want to give up?" he asked, concern in his voice as he closely monitored Angle's condition.

Angle, gritting his teeth through the pain, shook his head firmly, refusing to surrender. Sweat poured down his face as he gripped the mat, struggling to find the strength to fight back. His body trembled under the immense pressure of Zlatan's clutch, but his will was unbroken.

Tazz, observing from commentary, couldn't help but acknowledge Angle's toughness. "That's pure grit right there, Cole. Say what you want about Kurt Angle—whether you like him or not—but this man doesn't know the meaning of the word 'quit.'"

Michael Cole nodded in agreement. "Absolutely, Tazz. The crowd might not always be behind Kurt, especially with some of his antics over the past two years, but there's no denying his resilience. That surgically repaired neck has been a target throughout his career, and yet, here he is, refusing to give in."

Zlatan tightened his grip, cranking back on the clutch as his knee drove further into Angle's spine. The look of determination on Zlatan's face was evident—he was focused on securing the first fall and weakening Angle as much as possible in the process. Every second in the hold felt like an eternity for Kurt, and the pain coursing through his body was overwhelming.

The crowd, while not always supportive of Angle, began to rally behind his efforts. Some chanted, "Let's go Angle!" while others looked on with anticipation, unsure if Kurt could find a way out of Zlatan's vise-like submission.

Angle's hands clawed at the mat, searching for any leverage he could find. His face contorted with pain, but his eyes remained sharp—he was looking for an opening, any chance to escape the hold. Despite the excruciating pain in his neck, Kurt's indomitable spirit shone through, and he refused to let Zlatan break him.

just under four minutes gone in this grueling 30-minute Iron Man match, the tension was palpable. The stakes couldn't be higher—whoever won the most decisions by the end of the match would go on to face Big Show for the WWE Championship at Armageddon. Zlatan Ibrahimović had Angle trapped in a punishing clutch, focusing on Kurt's surgically repaired neck, and it seemed like the Lion of Rosengård was about to take the first fall.

But never count out Kurt Angle.

As the seconds ticked away, Kurt gritted his teeth, his face twisted with pain and determination. Slowly, inch by inch, Angle began to push himself back to his feet, defying the odds once again. The crowd, sensing the fight still left in the Olympic gold medalist, began to rally behind him, their chants echoing through the arena.

Tazz, at the commentary desk, couldn't help but admire Angle's resilience. "Look at this, Cole! Angle's fighting through that pain. This guy's tough as nails!"

Michael Cole, sensing the shift, added, "He's not done yet! Kurt Angle is clawing his way back, and Zlatan might be in trouble!"

With a sudden burst of energy, Angle grabbed hold of Zlatan's wrists and, using all his strength, broke the clutch. In one smooth motion, Angle shifted his body and executed a perfect arm drag, sending Zlatan tumbling across the mat. Zlatan quickly got back to his feet, but Angle was already in motion, delivering another crisp arm drag, sending Zlatan flying once again.

The crowd roared as Angle, now feeding off the energy, began to build momentum. You could see it in his eyes—Kurt was feeling it.

Tazz's voice was full of excitement. "Here we go, Cole! Angle's feeling it now! He's getting back into this match!"

Zlatan, shaken by the sudden turn of events, got back to his feet, but Angle was already waiting. With a flurry of precision, Angle unleashed a barrage of hard right hands, each one connecting with Zlatan's jaw. The crowd cheered with each punch as Angle pushed Zlatan toward the ropes, showing that he still had plenty of fight left in him.

But Angle wasn't done yet.

After a couple of well-placed punches, Angle shifted gears and delivered a powerful European uppercut that rocked Zlatan's head back, the impact reverberating through the arena. The blow sent Zlatan stumbling back, momentarily stunned by the sheer force of the strike.

Michael Cole, his voice full of excitement, shouted, "A European uppercut from Angle! Zlatan's on the ropes, literally and figuratively!"

With Zlatan reeling, the tide had turned once again. Angle, now fully back in the fight, had taken control of the match, and the crowd was firmly behind him. The momentum was shifting, and it felt like Kurt was just one big move away from securing the first fall of this high-stakes Iron Man match.

With the momentum shifting in his favor, Kurt Angle looked to capitalize on his fiery comeback. After stunning Zlatan Ibrahimović with a flurry of punches and a vicious European uppercut, Angle wasted no time. He grabbed Zlatan by the wrist and whipped him toward the corner, hoping to keep the pressure on and set up for another big move.

But Zlatan, ever resourceful, wasn't about to let Angle maintain control so easily. As Angle charged in after the whip, Zlatan lifted his boot and slammed it into Kurt's face, halting his momentum instantly. The crowd gasped at the impact, seeing Angle's head snap back from the force of the blow.

Tazz, always quick to note the action, called out, "Big boot from Zlatan! That'll stop you dead in your tracks, Cole."

Michael Cole added, "Just when Angle had him on the ropes, Zlatan comes back with a devastating boot!"

Zlatan, sensing an opportunity to regain control, quickly pushed himself out of the corner and charged at Angle. His intentions were clear—he was going to flatten Angle and take back the upper hand. But Angle, with the instincts of a true ring general, anticipated Zlatan's attack.

As Zlatan charged in, Angle reacted in a flash, slipping behind Zlatan's back and locking his arms around his waist. Before Zlatan could react, Angle delivered a powerful German suplex, sending Zlatan crashing to the mat with a thunderous thud. The crowd erupted, cheering for the Olympic hero's flawless execution of the move.

Michael Cole's voice was filled with excitement as he shouted, "German suplex by Angle! What a counter!"

Tazz added, "That's vintage Angle, Cole! When you think you've got him, he'll turn the tables on you in a split second."

Angle knew this was his moment. He quickly crawled over to Zlatan, hooking the leg and pressing his weight down for the pinfall. Referee Brian Hebner was right there, counting as the crowd held their breath.

1… 2…

But Zlatan, showing the grit and determination that had gotten him this far, powered out just before the three-count. The crowd let out a collective gasp, some cheering for the near-fall while others were stunned that the match hadn't ended there.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "Zlatan kicks out at two! Angle almost had him!"

Tazz, clearly impressed, added, "You gotta give it to Zlatan, Cole. He's tough. But Angle's got him on the ropes now. He needs to keep pressing!"

Despite the kickout, Angle could feel the momentum swinging firmly in his direction. The crowd was behind him, and he had Zlatan down and vulnerable. The battle for the first fall in this 30-minute Iron Man match was far from over, but Kurt Angle was now closer than ever to taking control of the match—and securing his shot at the WWE Championship at Armageddon.

As Kurt Angle delivered a flawless German suplex and secured a near fall, his frustration began to show. Zlatan Ibrahimović's resilience had once again denied Angle the first decision in this grueling Iron Man match, and Kurt knew he couldn't afford to let the Swedish powerhouse get back on his feet. Determined to keep the momentum, Angle unleashed a series of vicious stomps on Zlatan, each one aimed at keeping the big man grounded and helpless on the mat.

The crowd in Columbia, South Carolina, started to turn on the Olympian. The familiar "Angle Sucks!" chants began to echo throughout the arena, growing louder with every stomp. Angle, irritated by the disrespect, shot a glare at the fans, muttering an insult under his breath as he kept his foot planted on Zlatan.

Michael Cole quickly picked up on the shift in the atmosphere. "Listen to this crowd, Tazz. They're all over Kurt Angle tonight!"

Tazz shook his head in disbelief. "These fans have no respect, Cole. We're talking about an American hero! An Olympic gold medalist! But here they are, giving him grief. It's unbelievable."

Despite the chants, Angle remained focused on his opponent. He grabbed a handful of Zlatan's tights and dragged him toward the corner, hoisting him up just enough to deliver another brutal attack. Once Zlatan was in position, Angle reared back and delivered a sharp knife-edge chop to his opponent's chest.

"Woo!" the crowd chanted, paying homage to the legendary Ric Flair.

Angle, undeterred, hit another chop, the sound reverberating through the arena like a gunshot.

Cole, taking advantage of the moment to recap the rivalry, spoke with intensity. "This all started back in March at the inaugural WWE Draft. Zlatan Ibrahimović was picked ahead of Kurt Angle, and that didn't sit well with the Olympian. He made some snide remarks, calling Zlatan a 'punk kid.'"

Tazz nodded, adding context. "Yeah, and Zlatan didn't take kindly to that. When he came over to SmackDown three months ago, thanks to Stephanie McMahon, he made sure to make Angle's life miserable."

As Kurt delivered another chop, Cole continued. "Zlatan started playing mind games with Kurt, costing him match after match—including that count-out loss to Rey Mysterio. These two have been at each other's throats ever since. It all culminated in their first match at Unforgiven, where Zlatan made Kurt Angle tap out."

Tazz chimed in. "And you can bet that's been eating at Angle ever since. He's not the kind of guy to take a loss like that lightly."

Back in the ring, Angle continued to press his advantage. The stinging chops had left Zlatan's chest red and bruised, but Kurt wasn't finished yet. With each strike, Angle seemed more focused and determined to keep Zlatan down, his frustration bubbling just beneath the surface.

The crowd continued their mixed chants of support for Zlatan and disdain for Angle, but Kurt fed off the negativity, knowing that with every second Zlatan stayed on the mat, his chances of taking the first fall grew stronger.

But even as Kurt Angle seemed to have the upper hand, the tension between the two men simmered, fueled by months of mind games, insults, and one-upmanship. Their rivalry was more than just a quest for victory—it was about pride, ego, and the chance to prove who truly belonged at the top of the SmackDown hierarchy.

Zlatan Ibrahimović lay on the mat, visibly winded from Kurt Angle's relentless assault. The stinging knife-edge chops and the repeated blows had taken their toll, but if there was one thing the WWE Universe had learned about Zlatan since his arrival, it was that he wasn't the type to stay down for long. The Lion of Rosengård, a man with Bosnian-Croat roots, was known for his never-say-die attitude—a mentality forged through years of competition on the soccer pitch and now proven in the squared circle.

Just as Angle prepared to continue his dominance, Zlatan shifted his body, finding an opening. With a sudden burst of energy, Zlatan switched positions, grabbing Angle and delivering a knife-edge chop of his own. The sharp crack echoed through the arena, and the crowd, sensing a shift in momentum, erupted into cheers.

Tazz immediately picked up on the shift. "There it is, Cole! Zlatan's fighting back! This guy's got that never-say-die attitude. He may be down, but he's never out!"

Zlatan, feeding off the energy of the crowd, rose to his feet and delivered another thunderous chop to Angle's chest, the impact leaving a bright red mark. Angle staggered back, momentarily caught off guard by Zlatan's sudden resurgence. Zlatan quickly followed up, grabbing Angle and whipping him toward the corner.

But Angle, always the ring general, reversed the whip, using Zlatan's momentum against him. Instead of crashing into the turnbuckles, Zlatan found himself pulled back toward Angle. With expert precision, Kurt wrapped his arms around Zlatan and delivered a belly-to-belly suplex, sending the big man crashing down to the mat with a thud. The crowd gasped at the sudden shift in momentum.

"Wow! Belly-to-belly suplex by Angle!" Michael Cole shouted, clearly impressed. "Just when Zlatan was starting to mount a comeback, Angle shuts him down!"

Tazz, ever the analyst, added, "That's the thing with Angle, Cole—he can turn the tables in an instant. You give him an inch, and he'll take a mile."

Kurt wasted no time. He quickly crawled over to Zlatan, hooking the leg for the pinfall, hoping to secure the first decision of the match.

Referee Brian Hebner dropped to the mat, beginning the count.

1… 2…

But once again, Zlatan dug deep and powered out just before the three-count. The crowd erupted with cheers as Zlatan's resilience shone through. The frustration on Kurt's face was palpable as he glared down at Zlatan, realizing that this match was far from over.

Michael Cole, clearly impressed by Zlatan's toughness, called the action. "Zlatan kicks out at two! Kurt Angle is throwing everything at him, but Zlatan refuses to stay down!"

Tazz chimed in, "That's the heart of a competitor, Cole. Zlatan's been through a lot in this match, but he's still got fight left in him."

Despite the near fall, the battle raged on. The clock continued to tick down in this 30-minute Iron Man match, and both men knew that securing the first fall could be the key to victory. Angle was in control, but Zlatan's refusal to stay down meant that this war was far from over.

Kurt Angle, with a determined look on his face, knew that he had to keep Zlatan Ibrahimović down if he wanted to take the first fall in this 30-minute Iron Man match. After coming so close to securing a pinfall, Angle was ready to push his advantage. He reached down, grabbing a fistful of Zlatan's tights and pulling him back to his feet, determined to keep the pressure on.

Angle, ever the tactician, whipped Zlatan toward the ropes, but instead of letting him go, Kurt yanked Zlatan back toward him, using his own momentum against him. With another burst of raw power, Angle executed a second belly-to-belly suplex, sending Zlatan crashing to the mat once again. The crowd gasped as Zlatan's body hit the canvas with force, and Kurt quickly got to his feet, feeling the tide firmly turning in his favor.

Michael Cole, sensing the shift in the match, called the action with excitement. "Another belly-to-belly suplex from Kurt Angle! He's got Zlatan right where he wants him!"

As Zlatan lay on the mat, struggling to recover from the series of suplexes, Kurt Angle stood tall, spreading his arms wide in that familiar pose of confidence, as if to say that the match was now firmly in his control. The fans in Columbia responded with a mix of cheers and boos, the infamous "You Suck!" chants echoing throughout the arena, but Angle didn't care. He was feeling it, and he knew he had Zlatan on the ropes.

Tazz, always the voice of reason, added, "Kurt Angle's feeling it now, Cole. He's in control, and he knows it. That's bad news for Zlatan."

Michael Cole nodded in agreement. "Absolutely, Tazz. Angle has been relentless, and those suplexes are taking their toll on Zlatan. The question is, can Zlatan battle back, or is Angle about to put this match away?"

With the crowd's reaction buzzing around him, Angle stood over Zlatan, breathing heavily but confident that his time was coming. The Olympian's confidence was palpable—he knew that if he kept this up, the first fall would be his, and from there, he could ride the momentum all the way to a victory and a WWE Championship match against Big Show at Armageddon.

With Zlatan Ibrahimović weakened by the series of suplexes, Kurt Angle sensed it was the perfect time to sap more energy from the Bosnian-Croat powerhouse. Without wasting a second, Angle dropped down and wrapped his legs around Zlatan's waist, locking in a tight grapevine bear hug submission. The pressure was immediate and intense as Angle squeezed his legs tightly, compressing Zlatan's ribs and draining his stamina, just as planned.

Michael Cole quickly pointed out the effectiveness of the move. "Angle with a submission hold! That's the 1996 Olympic gold medalist showing why he's one of the best technical wrestlers in the world. This bear hug-like submission is designed to wear Zlatan down."

Tazz, ever the analyst, added, "That's right, Cole. It's a grapevine bear hug. Not only does it cut off Zlatan's breathing by compressing his ribs, but it also drains his stamina. Kurt's doing exactly what he needs to do right now—keep Zlatan grounded and weaken him further. This is all about control."

As the submission hold locked in deeper, Zlatan gritted his teeth, the pain evident on his face as he struggled to catch his breath. The tight grip around his waist made it difficult for him to breathe, and with each passing second, his energy reserves were being slowly depleted. The crowd could sense the danger Zlatan was in as Angle, with a focused look on his face, leaned back to apply more pressure.

The camera zoomed in on Angle's determined expression, his legs squeezing like a vise around Zlatan's midsection. Referee Brian Hebner crouched beside Zlatan, checking to see if the big man wanted to submit. But Zlatan, shaking his head with sheer defiance, refused to give up, despite the obvious discomfort he was in.

The crowd began to rally behind Zlatan, some chanting his name, trying to urge him to fight through the pain. Zlatan, fueled by the never-say-die attitude he had become known for, started to shift his body, looking for a way to break free from the hold.

Tazz continued his analysis. "Zlatan's a big, strong guy, but this is where Angle's experience comes into play. He knows if he can keep Zlatan down and squeeze the air out of him, he'll make it harder for Zlatan to fight back later in the match. This is as much a mental game as it is physical."

Michael Cole added, "Absolutely, Tazz. Angle knows how to pick his spots, and right now, he's systematically wearing Zlatan down. The longer this hold stays locked in, the harder it's going to be for Zlatan to make a comeback."

Despite the pain and the crushing pressure around his midsection, Zlatan's determination was unshakable. His hands clawed at Angle's legs, trying to pry them loose, but Angle held on with the expertise of a seasoned submission specialist. The crowd watched with bated breath as Zlatan struggled, his face twisted in pain, but his will to fight never faltered.

The clock continued to tick down in this Iron Man match, and Angle's strategy was becoming clear—wear Zlatan out now and strike for the first fall when he was weakest. But Zlatan, for all the punishment he was taking, wasn't about to let Kurt Angle have things his way easily.

The crowd in Columbia could sense the shift coming as Zlatan Ibrahimović, motivated by the chants and cheers of the fans, summoned his inner strength. Trapped in Kurt Angle's crushing grapevine bear hug, the pressure around his ribs was intense, but Zlatan wasn't one to stay down for long. Slowly, methodically, he began to pry Angle's legs apart, his powerful arms working against the tight grip of the Olympic gold medalist.

Tazz watched in awe as Zlatan fought back. "Look at this, Cole! Zlatan's not done yet! He's breaking the hold—this guy's a freakin' powerhouse!"

With Angle's legs slowly loosening their grip, Zlatan rolled onto his stomach, shifting his weight and transitioning into a gutwrench position. The crowd erupted as Zlatan started to regain his vertical base, using every ounce of his strength to push himself up while still holding onto Angle.

Michael Cole, sensing the momentum shift, called the action with excitement. "Zlatan is powering out! He's turning this into a gutwrench, and he's getting back to his feet! The Lion of Rosengård is back in this!"

Zlatan's face was etched with pain and determination as he rose, inch by inch, with Angle still trying to hang on. But once Zlatan was back on his feet, the tide turned. He fired off a series of back elbows into Angle's midsection, each one forcing Angle to loosen his hold a little more. The crowd roared with each elbow as Zlatan fought his way free.

Tazz was quick to point out the strategy. "Those back elbows are brutal! Each one is knocking the wind out of Angle!"

Finally breaking the hold, Zlatan spun around, his energy fully returned, and unleashed a barrage of right hands to Kurt Angle's head. Each punch landed with authority, the force behind them enough to drive Angle back as he struggled to defend himself. Zlatan was firing on all cylinders now, feeding off the energy of the crowd and turning the tables on the Olympic hero.

Michael Cole shouted, "Zlatan is back! He's unloading on Angle with those right hands!"

The crowd, fully behind Zlatan now, chanted his name as he continued to rain down punches on Angle. The momentum had fully shifted, and Zlatan was in control, showing the never-say-die attitude that had made him a force to be reckoned with in the WWE.

With Angle reeling from the onslaught, Zlatan knew this was his chance to take control of the match. The fans in Columbia were on their feet, cheering for Zlatan as he stood tall, ready to deliver more punishment to Kurt Angle in this high-stakes Iron Man match.

With the crowd firmly behind him, Zlatan Ibrahimović had regained control, the adrenaline surging through his veins as he continued his assault on Kurt Angle. After breaking free from Angle's grapevine bear hug and unloading a series of punishing right hands, Zlatan saw his moment to seize full control.

Grabbing Angle by the arm, Zlatan whipped him toward the ropes with authority. But Kurt, ever the veteran, reversed the whip, sending Zlatan into the ropes instead. As Zlatan rebounded, Angle looked to take him down with a devastating clothesline. But Zlatan, showing his agility and awareness, ducked under the clothesline, narrowly avoiding the blow.

Tazz called the action, impressed by Zlatan's speed. "Zlatan ducks under! He's got eyes in the back of his head, Cole!"

As Zlatan hit the ropes for the second time, he came back with a head full of steam. Angle turned around just in time to meet Zlatan, but it was too late—Zlatan leaped into the air and drove Angle's head into the mat with a thunderous DDT.

The crowd erupted as Angle's body slammed against the canvas, the impact echoing throughout the arena. Zlatan's explosive move had completely shifted the tide of the match, leaving Angle sprawled out on the mat, dazed and vulnerable.

Michael Cole's voice was full of excitement. "DDT by Zlatan! What a counter! Angle is down!"

Tazz, nodding in approval, added, "That was perfect, Cole. Zlatan's got Angle on the mat, and he's in control now."

Zlatan, breathing heavily but fueled by the momentum, looked down at the fallen Kurt Angle, knowing he had turned the tables once again. The Lion of Rosengård stood tall, ready to capitalize on the damage he had just inflicted. The WWE Universe roared in approval as Zlatan had brought the match back in his favor, and now, the first fall was closer than ever.

Zlatan Ibrahimović, sensing the momentum fully shifting in his favor, knew he couldn't let up. The crowd was electric, firmly behind him, and Zlatan fed off their energy as he kept his focus on Kurt Angle. As Angle slowly staggered to his feet, still reeling from the devastating DDT, he turned around—only to walk straight into a thunderous clothesline from Zlatan, sending him crashing back down to the mat.

The WWE Universe erupted, their cheers echoing throughout the arena. Zlatan, feeling the adrenaline pumping, wasted no time, quickly pulling Angle back up. As soon as Kurt got to his feet, Zlatan leveled him with another clothesline, showcasing his power and aggression.

Michael Cole, clearly feeling the excitement, shouted, "Zlatan is on fire! Angle can't catch a break!"

Tazz added, "Zlatan's not giving Angle any room to breathe, Cole. He's all over him!"

Zlatan, fully in control now, grabbed Angle once more and whipped him hard into the ropes. As Angle bounced back, Zlatan bent down and launched him high into the air with a massive back body drop. Angle soared through the air before crashing down hard on the canvas, the impact leaving him dazed and disoriented. The crowd roared louder, appreciating Zlatan's dominant display.

But Zlatan wasn't finished yet.

As Angle stumbled to his feet and backed into the corner, Zlatan stalked him like a predator. Once Angle was cornered, Zlatan moved in and unleashed a flurry of right and left hands, each punch landing with brutal precision. Angle, desperate to protect himself, tried to cover up, but Zlatan's fists were relentless, battering Angle as the crowd counted along with each strike.

"Zlatan is unloading on Kurt Angle!" Michael Cole exclaimed. "He's not letting Angle off the hook!"

Tazz nodded in agreement. "This is smart by Zlatan. He's keeping the pressure on and not giving Angle a chance to recover."

Angle slumped in the corner, overwhelmed by the onslaught, as Zlatan continued to throw rights and lefts, showing no signs of slowing down. The Lion of Rosengård had the Olympic gold medalist right where he wanted him, and the WWE Universe could feel the tide of the match fully turning in Zlatan's favor.

As the match entered the 7th minute, the intensity was palpable. Both men knew what was on the line—a shot at the WWE Championship against Big Show at Armageddon. The stakes couldn't be higher, and Zlatan Ibrahimović had taken full control of the match, using his power and aggression to wear down Kurt Angle, the Olympic gold medalist.

With Angle cornered and vulnerable, Zlatan decided to up the ante. He positioned himself in front of Kurt and began driving his shoulder repeatedly into Angle's midsection. Each shoulder thrust sent shockwaves through Angle's body, driving the air out of him with every impact. The crowd counted along as Zlatan's massive frame slammed into Angle's gut again and again, leaving the Olympian gasping for breath.

Michael Cole called the action with excitement. "Zlatan driving those shoulders into the gut of Kurt Angle! He's taking all the wind out of him!"

Tazz added, "That's smart strategy, Cole. Zlatan's not just relying on his size—he's wearing Angle down, making it harder for him to keep up as this match goes on."

Once satisfied, Zlatan stepped back and unleashed a series of brutal stomps to Angle, kicking him repeatedly while he was trapped in the corner. With the crowd cheering him on, Zlatan delivered what could only be described as a mudhole stomping, showing no mercy as he punished the Olympic hero.

The referee stepped in, trying to get Zlatan to back off, but the damage was already done. Angle, breathing heavily and clutching his ribs, tried to pull himself up using the ropes, but Zlatan wasn't about to let him recover.

Grabbing Kurt by the arm, Zlatan whipped him hard into the opposite corner. Angle's back collided with the turnbuckles with a sickening thud, but even as the momentum seemed entirely in Zlatan's favor, Kurt dug deep into his veteran instincts. As Zlatan charged in to follow up, Angle struck with a quick back elbow, catching Zlatan in the jaw and halting his momentum.

The crowd gasped, surprised by Angle's sudden counter.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "Back elbows from Angle! He's not out of this yet!"

Tazz added, "You can't count Kurt out, Cole. He's always got something up his sleeve."

Sensing an opportunity to turn the match back in his favor, Angle pushed off from the corner and charged at Zlatan, looking to build momentum. But Zlatan was ready. With a quick shift of his body, Zlatan caught Angle and lifted him high into the air, slamming him down with a devastating Samoan Drop.

The crowd erupted as Angle's body hit the mat with a thunderous crash, and Zlatan quickly followed up by hooking the leg for the pinfall.

Referee Brian Hebner dropped down to make the count.

1… 2…

But at the last second, Angle got his shoulder up, denying Zlatan the first fall in the match.

Michael Cole shouted, "Angle kicks out! Just before the count of three, Kurt Angle gets the shoulder up!"

Tazz, impressed by both men's resilience, added, "That was close, Cole. Zlatan almost had him, but Angle's got too much fight left in him. This is what makes Kurt Angle so dangerous—he can survive just about anything."

As Zlatan Ibrahimović got back to his feet, wiping the sweat from his brow, Tazz couldn't help but offer some strategic insight. "Cole, Ibra's gotta keep the pressure on Angle here. He's got him reeling, but with Kurt Angle, if you give him even a second to breathe, he's gonna find a way back into this match."

Michael Cole nodded in agreement, the tension building as both men continued to push each other to the limit. "You're absolutely right, Tazz. Zlatan needs to stay on the attack if he wants to secure that first fall."

Zlatan, intent on doing just that, reached down and grabbed Kurt Angle, pulling him back to his feet, ready to dish out more punishment. But just as Zlatan tried to lift him, Angle, ever the crafty veteran, delivered a sharp knee to Zlatan's gut, driving the wind out of the big man.

The crowd gasped as Angle seized the moment.

Tazz jumped in with excitement. "There's Angle's opening! That knee caught Zlatan by surprise."

With Zlatan momentarily stunned, Angle wrapped his arms around Zlatan's waist from behind, setting him up for his signature German suplex. With a burst of strength, Angle lifted Zlatan off the mat and slammed him down with the first suplex, the ring shaking from the impact.

But Angle wasn't done.

He maintained his grip around Zlatan's waist, pulling him back to his feet for a second German suplex. The crowd roared as Angle delivered the second suplex, driving Zlatan into the canvas once again.

Michael Cole called the action, "German suplexes by Kurt Angle! He's turning the tide here, folks!"

Tazz added, "That's Angle's bread and butter, Cole! He's looking for the trifecta!"

As Angle went for the third German suplex, Zlatan, feeling the momentum slipping, instinctively blocked the move by planting his feet firmly on the mat. Angle tried to power through, but Zlatan delivered a sharp back elbow to Angle's head, catching him square in the jaw. The blow caused Angle to loosen his grip, staggering back as he tried to regain his balance.

Sensing an opportunity, Zlatan quickly spun around, going for a high kick to Angle's head. But the Olympian, still alert, caught Zlatan's leg, thinking he had stopped the counterattack. However, Zlatan had more tricks up his sleeve. With impressive agility for a man his size, Zlatan twisted his body and connected with a spinning heel kick, the impact sending Angle crashing to the mat.

The crowd erupted at the display of athleticism from the Lion of Rosengård.

Michael Cole was in awe. "Spinning heel kick by Zlatan! What an incredible counter!"

Tazz, impressed, added, "Man, that's what makes Zlatan so dangerous. The guy's got power and speed. Angle thought he had him, but Zlatan turned the tables in a heartbeat."

Wasting no time, Zlatan quickly dropped down for the cover, hooking Angle's leg as referee Brian Hebner slid in for the count.

1… 2…

But, once again, Kurt Angle showed why he was one of the toughest competitors in WWE. With sheer determination, Angle kicked out just before the referee's hand could hit the mat for the third time.

The crowd gasped, some cheering for Angle's resilience, while others were amazed at how close Zlatan came to securing the first fall.

Michael Cole, his voice filled with excitement, shouted, "Angle kicks out! What a match we're seeing here—neither man is giving an inch!"

Tazz nodded. "That's what this is all about, Cole. Both these guys want that title shot, and they're leaving it all in the ring."

Zlatan Ibrahimović, momentarily taking in the crowd's energy, glanced down at Kurt Angle, weighing his options for the next move. Knowing he needed to capitalize on the momentum he had built, Zlatan made a bold decision. He climbed to the top rope, his large frame balancing precariously as he prepared to deliver a high-impact move. The crowd roared, sensing that something big was about to happen.

But Kurt Angle, ever the ring general, wasn't done yet.

As soon as Zlatan reached the top, Angle sprang to life. With lightning-fast reflexes, Angle dashed toward the corner and leaped onto the top rope, meeting Zlatan at the summit. The crowd gasped, watching as the two heavyweights teetered on the top rope. For a brief moment, it looked like Angle was about to deliver a massive superplex.

But Zlatan, using his strength, managed to shove Angle off the top rope, sending the Olympic gold medalist crashing to the mat below. The impact stunned Angle, leaving him vulnerable as the crowd erupted in cheers, sensing that Zlatan was still in control.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "Angle tried to catch him, but Zlatan shoved him off! Now he's in perfect position to finish this!"

Tazz added, "This could be it, Cole! Zlatan's about to fly!"

Zlatan, feeling the tide still in his favor, stood tall on the top rope, ready to deliver a massive splash. The crowd held their breath as Zlatan launched himself into the air, aiming to crash down on Angle with all his weight.

But Angle, with incredible ring awareness, rolled out of the way at the last possible second. Zlatan crashed hard into the mat, the impact reverberating throughout the arena. The crowd gasped, knowing the tide had once again turned in this unpredictable battle.

"Nobody home!" Michael Cole shouted. "Zlatan went for it all, but Kurt Angle moved out of the way!"

Tazz, nodding in approval, added, "That's veteran instinct right there, Cole. Angle saw it coming and got out of dodge!"

Kurt Angle, though hurting from the earlier assault, knew this was his chance. Wasting no time, he scrambled to his feet and immediately took hold of Zlatan's leg. In one swift motion, Angle twisted Zlatan's ankle and locked in his signature submission—the Ankle Lock.

The crowd erupted as Angle applied the pressure, wrenching Zlatan's ankle with precision and force. Zlatan's face contorted in pain as the pressure on his ankle increased, his hand hovering above the mat as he fought to resist the pain.

Michael Cole was beside himself. "Angle's got the Ankle Lock! He's going for the first fall!"

Tazz jumped in. "Zlatan's in trouble now, Cole. That Ankle Lock is no joke. Angle's won titles with this move!"

As the pain surged through Zlatan's leg, he writhed on the mat, desperately reaching for the ropes to break the hold. The fans were on their feet, fully invested in the moment, as Zlatan fought to escape the submission that had forced countless superstars to tap out over the years.

With Kurt Angle's Ankle Lock locked in tight, the pressure on Zlatan Ibrahimović's ankle was becoming unbearable. Angle, fully confident that he was seconds away from making Zlatan tap, shouted at him, "Tap! Come on, tap out!" The pain shot through Zlatan's leg, but the Lion of Rosengård refused to give up.

The crowd was electric, sensing the tension as Zlatan struggled in the hold, his face contorted with pain. But Zlatan, showing his incredible resilience, summoned all his strength and managed to roll onto his back, using his free leg to kick Angle in the chest. The force of the kick sent Angle stumbling back into the ropes, momentarily breaking the hold.

Tazz was quick to point it out. "Zlatan using that leg to push Angle off—he's not done yet!"

As Angle bounced off the ropes, still in disbelief that he had lost control of the submission, Zlatan saw his opening. In a lightning-fast maneuver, Zlatan rolled Angle up in a small package, catching the Olympian completely off guard. The crowd gasped as referee Brian Hebner dropped down to count the pin.

1… 2… 3!

The bell rang, and the crowd erupted in shock and excitement. Zlatan had done it—he had secured the first decision in this grueling Iron Man match. Kurt Angle, stunned and wide-eyed, couldn't believe what had just happened. He immediately popped up, protesting the count.

Michael Cole, in disbelief, shouted, "Zlatan got him! Zlatan wins the first decision! I can't believe it!"

Tazz, equally surprised, added, "What a move by Zlatan! He caught Angle completely by surprise!"

Angle, still reeling from the sudden turn of events, marched over to referee Brian Hebner, furiously arguing the count. "No! That was two! It wasn't three!" Angle protested, pointing at the mat and pleading his case. But Hebner stood firm, shaking his head and holding up three fingers, confirming the pinfall.

"It was three, Kurt!" Hebner insisted, refusing to back down.

The crowd cheered wildly as Zlatan, though limping slightly from the effects of the Ankle Lock, managed to rise to his feet, a look of satisfaction on his face. He had taken the first decision, and with it, gained a crucial advantage in the match. Meanwhile, Angle continued to argue, but there was no changing the referee's decision.

Michael Cole summed it up perfectly. "Zlatan has scored the first decision, and Kurt Angle is beside himself! He can't believe it!"

Tazz nodded, impressed by Zlatan's resilience. "That's a huge blow for Angle, Cole. He had Zlatan right where he wanted him, but Zlatan turned the tables with that small package. Now Angle's gotta play catch-up."

XXXX

As SmackDown returned from the commercial break, the camera panned to the ring where Zlatan Ibrahimović had Kurt Angle trapped in a devastating cobra clutch. The hold was tight, with Zlatan's powerful arms wrapped around Angle's neck, cutting off his air supply and exerting pressure on his upper body. It was a move made famous by Sgt. Slaughter, and Zlatan was executing it with precision.

Michael Cole's voice cut through the crowd noise as the broadcast resumed. "We're back on SmackDown in Columbia, and we are now 13 minutes into this intense 30-minute Iron Man match. Zlatan Ibrahimović is up by one decision to none after scoring a surprise pinfall before the break."

A replay of the key moment flashed across the screen, showing Zlatan's small package roll-up that caught Angle off guard, securing the first decision of the match. The WWE Universe watched in awe as Zlatan's resilience had turned the tide in his favor. Then, the screen shifted to what transpired during the commercial break—Angle attempting to regain momentum, but Zlatan countering his offense and locking in the cobra clutch.

Cole continued, providing context. "During the break, Kurt Angle tried to mount some offense, but Zlatan turned the tables once again and applied this cobra clutch, a move that takes shades from Sgt. Slaughter. Zlatan has been in control ever since."

Tazz, watching intently, chimed in with his analysis. "Yeah, Cole, this is a smart move by Zlatan. That cobra clutch is designed to wear Angle down and drain his stamina. Remember, we're just over 13 minutes into this match, and with 17 minutes to go, Zlatan's strategy is clear—he's going to make Angle fight for every breath."

Angle, his face contorted with pain, struggled within Zlatan's vice-like grip, but the longer the hold stayed locked in, the more energy it sapped from him. Zlatan, keeping his composure, leaned into the hold, using his size and strength to keep the pressure on. The crowd, divided in their chants, rallied behind both competitors as the clock ticked away.

The referee, Brian Hebner, checked on Angle, asking him if he wanted to submit, but Kurt, ever the fighter, shook his head vehemently, refusing to give up. Angle clawed at Zlatan's arms, trying to break free, but the grip was too tight. Zlatan had control, and the longer he maintained it, the more it tilted the match in his favor.

Michael Cole acknowledged the tension. "Angle is in a bad spot here. If he can't find a way out of this cobra clutch soon, Zlatan could secure a second decision, and that would put Angle in a huge hole with time running down."

Tazz added, "Kurt's been in tough spots before, Cole, but this is a tough one. He's gotta find a way to break this hold, or Zlatan's gonna keep wearing him down. You can't count Angle out, but the clock is ticking."

With every second that passed, Zlatan tightened his grip, looking to secure a second decision and put himself one step closer to a shot at the WWE Championship. The WWE Universe was on the edge of their seats, wondering if Angle could escape or if Zlatan's dominance would continue in this high-stakes Iron Man match.

As Kurt Angle struggled in the tight grip of Zlatan Ibrahimović's cobra clutch, the Olympic gold medalist knew he had to fight back or risk losing even more ground in the match. With the clock ticking and Zlatan controlling the momentum, Angle summoned all his strength, driving a right hand into Zlatan's gut.

The first punch hit hard, momentarily loosening Zlatan's grip. Angle, seeing an opportunity, fired another right hand into Zlatan's midsection, then another, each punch landing with more force. The crowd began to rally behind Angle, sensing the comeback.

Michael Cole's voice rose with excitement. "Here comes Angle! Those right hands are connecting—he's fighting back!"

Tazz, always analytical, chimed in. "He's digging deep, Cole, but Zlatan's still got him under control. Angle's gotta keep it going."

Just when it seemed like Angle was turning the tide, Zlatan shut down the comeback attempt with a quick, decisive move. Before Angle could break free completely, Zlatan hooked him and delivered a punishing inverted DDT, driving the back of Angle's head and neck into the mat with force. The crowd gasped as Angle's body slammed into the canvas.

Tazz exclaimed, "What a counter! Just when Angle had a chance, Zlatan cuts him off with that inverted DDT!"

Wasting no time, Zlatan quickly rolled on top of Angle, hooking the leg for the cover as referee Brian Hebner dropped to count the pin.

1… 2…

But once again, Angle showed the heart and resilience that had made him a champion, kicking out just before the three-count. The crowd erupted, some in disbelief, others cheering Angle's toughness.

Michael Cole shouted, "Angle kicks out! He's still in this, but for how long?"

Tazz nodded, impressed by both men. "Zlatan's been dominating, Cole, but Angle is a survivor. You can't count him out."

Zlatan, though momentarily frustrated, stayed composed. He knew he was still in control of the match, and with the clock continuing to tick down, every second brought him closer to victory. As Angle lay on the mat, clutching the back of his head, Zlatan took a moment to plan his next move, knowing that he had to keep the pressure on if he wanted to secure the next fall.

With Kurt Angle still reeling from the inverted DDT and barely kicking out of the pin, Zlatan Ibrahimović knew that he had to keep up the relentless assault. Wasting no time, Zlatan reached down and grabbed a handful of Angle's singlet, yanking the Olympic gold medalist to his feet. Angle, clearly still shaken, was met with a vicious knife-edge chop across his chest.

"Wooo!" the crowd echoed, paying homage to the legendary Ric Flair as the sound of the chop reverberated through the arena.

Not satisfied with just one, Zlatan followed up with another brutal knife-edge chop, the impact of which left Angle's chest red and stinging. The chops were calculated, meant to weaken Angle's upper body even further.

Tazz, always quick to analyze, chimed in. "Those chops, Cole. They're not just for show. Zlatan's wearing Angle down with every one of them."

With Angle hunched over from the chops, Zlatan unleashed a precise spin kick to Angle's gut, driving the air out of him and forcing the Olympian to double over in pain. The crowd reacted with a mix of awe and tension, knowing that Zlatan was in complete control.

Michael Cole called the action, "Zlatan with a spin kick right to the midsection! He's systematically breaking Angle down!"

Not content to simply weaken Angle with strikes, Zlatan decided to apply more pressure. He grabbed Angle and locked him into an abdominal stretch, expertly positioning his body to maximize the pain on Angle's ribs and midsection. But Zlatan wasn't done—he added an extra layer of punishment by clutching Angle's neck and shoulder, applying additional pressure to his upper body.

Tazz was quick to explain the move. "That's an abdominal stretch with a clutch, Cole. Zlatan's not just stretching Angle's ribs—he's adding torque to the neck and shoulder. This is a brilliant move. It'll drain Angle's stamina and make it even harder for him to mount a comeback."

As Zlatan wrenched back on the hold, the pain on Angle's face was clear. The stretch applied immense pressure to Angle's already weakened body, with Zlatan using his size and strength to keep the Olympian trapped. The crowd, sensing Angle's peril, began to rally behind him, hoping for another comeback.

Michael Cole remarked, "Zlatan's been in control for most of this match. That abdominal stretch is just adding more punishment. Angle's got to find a way out!"

Referee Brian Hebner hovered close, asking Angle if he wanted to submit. But Angle, ever defiant, shook his head, refusing to give in to the pain despite the excruciating hold.

The WWE Universe watched on as Angle struggled within Zlatan's grip, the clock ticking down with every second that passed. With Zlatan still up by one decision, the stakes couldn't be higher. The question was, could Angle find a way to escape, or would Zlatan continue to dominate in this high-stakes Iron Man match?

Kurt Angle, trapped in the torturous abdominal stretch with a clutch applied by Zlatan Ibrahimović, could feel the pressure wearing him down. The pain coursing through his ribs and neck was immense, but the Olympian wasn't about to give in. Digging deep, Angle summoned the strength he had left and began to shift his weight, looking for an escape.

With a sudden burst of energy, Angle managed to twist out of Zlatan's grip and execute a hip toss, sending Zlatan crashing to the mat. The crowd erupted in cheers as Angle finally created some separation, buying himself a precious few seconds to regain his composure.

Michael Cole called the action. "Angle with the hip toss! He's bought himself some time here, but he's still in a bad way!"

Tazz added, "Yeah, Cole, Angle's gotta catch his breath, but he's still in this match. That hip toss gave him an opening."

Both men slowly made their way back to their feet, their bodies showing the toll of this intense battle. Zlatan, recovering from the hip toss, shook off the impact and advanced toward Angle with determination. As soon as Angle was upright, Zlatan fired a powerful right hand that connected with Angle's jaw, followed by another. The blows sent Angle staggering back.

Zlatan, sensing an opportunity, grabbed Angle and whipped him toward the corner with force. But Angle, ever the tactician, reversed the whip, sending Zlatan crashing into the turnbuckles instead. Zlatan hit the corner hard, but before Angle could follow up, Zlatan sidestepped his charge, leaving Angle to crash shoulder-first into the unforgiving steel ring post.

The crowd winced as Angle's shoulder slammed into the post, and he slumped in the corner, clearly in pain. Zlatan, recovering quickly, saw his chance and capitalized. Moving swiftly, he grabbed Angle from behind and delivered a back suplex, sending Angle crashing down onto the mat.

Michael Cole's voice echoed with concern, "Back suplex by Zlatan! He's staying on Angle—this could be it!"

Tazz added, "Zlatan's got him right where he wants him. He's not letting Angle catch a break."

Zlatan wasted no time, rolling over and covering Angle, hooking the leg for the pinfall. Referee Brian Hebner dropped down to make the count as the crowd held their breath.

1… 2…

But once again, Kurt Angle showed the resilience that had made him a champion. With sheer willpower, Angle kicked out just before the three-count, drawing a roar of approval from the crowd.

Michael Cole shouted, "Angle kicks out! This match is still going!"

Tazz, clearly impressed, added, "That's pure guts, Cole. Angle's hanging on, but Zlatan's not letting up. He wants that second fall, and he's close."

Zlatan Ibrahimović, fully aware of the importance of staying in control, pulled Kurt Angle to his feet, his face showing a mix of determination and frustration. With Angle in his grasp, Zlatan positioned him for a devastating powerbomb. As Angle found himself hoisted onto Zlatan's shoulders, the crowd held their breath, anticipating the brutal impact that was about to come.

But just as Zlatan went to slam Angle down, the Olympic gold medalist's instincts kicked in. In a split-second maneuver, Angle managed to reverse the powerbomb attempt into a perfectly executed sunset flip, slipping off Zlatan's shoulders and bringing him down to the mat. In an instant, Angle grabbed hold of Zlatan's leg and expertly transitioned into his signature submission—the Ankle Lock.

The crowd erupted as Angle applied the pressure, twisting Zlatan's ankle with precision and force. The tables had turned in an instant, and Angle had Zlatan right where he wanted him.

Michael Cole was in disbelief. "Angle with the Ankle Lock! Just like that, he's turned the tables on Zlatan!"

Tazz added, his voice full of excitement. "This is classic Kurt Angle, Cole! He can turn any situation into a submission, and now he's got Zlatan in deep trouble."

Angle, his face full of intensity, shouted at Zlatan, "Tap! Come on, tap out!" The pain shot through Zlatan's ankle, but he fought against the pressure, refusing to give in. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as Zlatan tried to twist and turn, looking for any way to escape.

Zlatan made one desperate attempt to reverse the hold, rolling his body to alleviate the pressure, but Angle, like a pitbull, refused to let go. He held on tightly, maintaining the ankle lock, his grip unbreakable. Zlatan tried again, using his power to twist out of the submission, but Angle's experience and relentless determination kept the hold locked in.

Tazz marveled at Angle's tenacity. "Angle's like a pitbull, Cole! He won't let go. Zlatan's trying everything, but Kurt's got that ankle locked up tight."

Sensing that Zlatan was close to breaking free, Angle made a calculated decision. He transitioned the Ankle Lock into a grapevine lock, wrapping his legs around Zlatan's trapped leg and applying even more pressure to the already tortured ankle. The move was devastating, and it left Zlatan with nowhere to go.

Now trapped in the center of the ring with the clock ticking down, Zlatan's face showed the agony he was in. He clawed at the mat, trying to pull himself toward the ropes, but the distance was too great. The pain was overwhelming, and the crowd could see the struggle on Zlatan's face as he fought to hold on.

Michael Cole's voice echoed through the arena. "Zlatan is trapped! The Ankle Lock with the grapevine, and there's nowhere for him to go!"

Tazz added, "It's just a matter of time now, Cole. How long can Zlatan hold on?"

Angle wrenched back, applying even more pressure as the seconds ticked by. Zlatan, his face contorted with pain, tried to resist, but the agony was too much. After what felt like an eternity, with no escape in sight, Zlatan had no choice. He raised his hand and tapped out.

The crowd erupted as the bell rang, signaling that Kurt Angle had evened the score. Angle released the hold, a look of satisfaction on his face as he rose to his feet, knowing he had just turned the tide in this epic Iron Man match.

Michael Cole shouted, "Zlatan taps! Angle evens the score—it's one decision each, under the 14-minute mark!"

Tazz, clearly impressed, added, "That's why Angle's one of the best, Cole. He can take you from offense to defense in a heartbeat, and now we're back to square one. This match is far from over."

With the score now tied at one decision each, the match was reset. Both men had given everything they had, and with over half the time still left on the clock, the battle for a shot at the WWE Championship was far from decided. The WWE Universe was on its feet, knowing that the next few minutes could determine who would walk out victorious.

As the crowd settled from the excitement of Kurt Angle evening the score in the Iron Man match, a curious chant began to ripple through the arena. The Columbia fans, always ready to engage in the action, started a playful but mocking chant:

"Tacos! Tacos! Tacos!"

Kurt Angle's face immediately twisted into a frown, the memories of that embarrassing incident flashing through his mind. The chant was a reminder of one of the more humiliating moments in his rivalry with Zlatan Ibrahimović—the day Zlatan played a prank that caused Angle a crucial loss against Rey Mysterio.

Several months ago, Angle had intercepted a burrito delivery meant for Zlatan. What Angle didn't know was that Zlatan had gotten to it first and laced it with an incredibly spicy sauce that left Angle incapacitated with stomach pain mid-match. It led to a count-out loss against Rey, something that had clearly left a lasting impression on the Olympian. Now, the crowd was making sure Angle remembered that embarrassment.

Michael Cole, always the one to remind the viewers of history, couldn't help but comment. "And listen to this, Tazz! The crowd's bringing back the 'Tacos' chant! They haven't forgotten how Zlatan's prank on Angle led to that count-out loss against Rey Mysterio."

Tazz chuckled. "I remember that day, Cole. That special sauce Zlatan put in Angle's burritos was no joke. It sent Kurt straight to the back with a bad case of 'Ring Stomach.' But I can tell you right now, Angle's not laughing."

Fuming from the mocking chants, Angle's frustration boiled over. He mounted a recovering Zlatan, who was still feeling the effects of the Ankle Lock. Without wasting any time, Angle rained down right hands on Zlatan, each punch landing with force as he kept the powerful Lion of Rosengård on the mat. The crowd's chant continued, but Angle ignored them, focusing all his aggression on Zlatan.

Michael Cole called the action. "And now, Angle's taking out his frustration on Zlatan! Look at those right hands—he's keeping Zlatan grounded!"

Tazz, sensing the change in tone, added, "Kurt's had enough of the games, Cole. He's not thinking about tacos or burritos now. He's thinking about punishment."

Angle's punches were precise and brutal, keeping Zlatan on the mat as the Olympian vented his anger. Each blow echoed with the intensity of a man determined to make his opponent pay for months of mind games and insults.

Despite the chants and the memories, Angle was now firmly back in control. Zlatan, who had already endured a grueling stretch of the match, struggled to defend himself against the onslaught, the pain from the earlier submission still fresh in his body. Angle's aggression had been unleashed, and the crowd, though mocking, knew that Kurt was now fully focused on punishing Zlatan.

With the match nearing its halfway point, the tension in the arena was palpable. The score was tied, but both men knew that the next few minutes could determine who would walk out with a shot at the WWE Championship at Armageddon.

Still fuming from the taunting "Tacos" chants and determined to keep Zlatan Ibrahimović grounded, Kurt Angle quickly transitioned from raining down punches to applying a brutal leg scissor submission around Zlatan's waist. With a calculated focus, Angle wrapped his powerful legs around Zlatan's midsection, locking in the submission hold tight and applying intense pressure to the ribs and abdomen of the Lion of Rosengård.

Michael Cole, seeing the method behind Angle's tactics, commented, "Angle's transitioned into a leg scissor submission! He's using his legs to squeeze the air out of Zlatan, just like a vise. This is a brilliant move by the Olympian!"

Tazz, always appreciative of technical wrestling, added, "Angle's playing this smart, Cole. Zlatan's got size and power, but if you take away his ability to breathe, you slow him down. Angle's draining Zlatan's stamina with this move, and that'll pay off big time later in the match."

Zlatan's face contorted with pain as the pressure from Angle's legs constricted his midsection. The crowd watched as Zlatan tried to pull in deep breaths, each one more difficult than the last. Angle's legs were locked tight, and he kept the pressure applied, knowing that if he could wear Zlatan down, it would set him up perfectly for the remainder of the match.

Referee Brian Hebner crouched beside Zlatan, asking if he wanted to submit, but Zlatan shook his head defiantly, refusing to give in. The pain was excruciating, but Zlatan wasn't ready to tap out just yet.

Michael Cole spoke to the stakes at hand. "Zlatan's in a bad spot here, Tazz. We're past the halfway point of this Iron Man match, and with the score tied at one decision apiece, both men know how crucial it is to get the next fall."

Tazz nodded. "No doubt, Cole. Every second that Zlatan spends in this hold is draining his energy. Angle's playing the long game here, and if Zlatan can't find a way out soon, he's gonna be in big trouble."

The crowd, fully aware of the pain Zlatan was in, began to chant his name, hoping to give him the motivation to break free. Zlatan, feeding off their energy, tried to use his raw power to pry Angle's legs apart, but the Olympian's grip was too strong. Angle, with a focused look on his face, leaned back, tightening the hold even more, determined to squeeze the life out of Zlatan.

With each passing second, Zlatan's breathing became more labored. His hands clawed at Angle's legs, but the pain was overwhelming. Still, Zlatan refused to quit, his body writhing on the mat as he searched for any opening.

The clock continued to tick down, and both men knew how pivotal this moment was. Would Zlatan be able to escape, or would Kurt Angle's vise-like submission wear him down to the point of submission?

The WWE Universe watched with bated breath as the battle raged on, the stakes higher than ever in this hard-fought Iron Man match.

As Kurt Angle continued to tighten his leg scissor submission around Zlatan Ibrahimović's waist, the pain was becoming unbearable. Zlatan, struggling to breathe under the relentless pressure, knew he had to escape, and he was willing to do whatever it took. In a moment of desperation, Zlatan reached up and raked Angle's eyes, temporarily blinding the Olympian. As Angle winced in pain, Zlatan went a step further, biting Angle's nose, forcing him to release the hold.

The crowd erupted with mixed reactions—some cheering, others gasping—acknowledging Zlatan's willingness to bend the rules when necessary. Zlatan had always prided himself on doing whatever it took to win, even if it wasn't by the book.

Michael Cole, slightly shocked, exclaimed, "Zlatan with a dirty tactic! Raking the eyes and biting the nose—he's breaking every rule, but he's breaking free!"

Tazz, more understanding, added, "Hey, Cole, Zlatan's never claimed to be perfect. He's said it before—he'll do whatever it takes to win. And sometimes, in a match like this, you have to play dirty."

With Angle reeling from the unexpected attack, Zlatan wasted no time. He unleashed a series of right hands, each one hitting with precision as Angle staggered. Seizing the moment, Zlatan kicked Angle in the midsection, doubling him over and setting him up for a vertical suplex. But as Zlatan lifted Angle, the ever-resourceful Olympian managed to slip out of the hold, landing behind Zlatan.

Angle, moving quickly, wrapped his arms around Zlatan's waist, going for another German suplex. But Zlatan, showing his own technical prowess, reversed the move into a victory roll, catching Angle off guard. Referee Brian Hebner dropped to count.

1… 2…

But before Hebner could count to three, Angle powered out, escaping the pinfall just in time. The crowd gasped in unison, watching the back-and-forth action with intensity. Both men scrambled to their feet, ready to continue the battle.

As soon as they were upright, Zlatan swung a powerful right hand, but Angle, showing his veteran instincts, ducked under the punch. In an instant, Angle grabbed Zlatan and, with a burst of strength, delivered the Angle Slam. The crowd roared as Zlatan's body crashed hard into the mat.

Michael Cole shouted, "Angle Slam! He got him! Kurt Angle with the Angle Slam!"

Tazz, impressed, added, "That could be it, Cole! Zlatan's in big trouble now!"

Angle wasted no time, immediately hooking Zlatan's leg for the cover as the referee counted.

1… 2… 3!

The bell rang, and the crowd erupted as Angle took the lead in the match. The scoreboard now read 2-1 in favor of Kurt Angle, giving the Olympian the advantage in this grueling Iron Man match.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "And just like that, Kurt Angle takes the lead! It's now 2-1 in decisions to Angle!"

Tazz added, "What a turnaround, Cole. Zlatan had the upper hand for a moment, but Angle's experience shined through. Now Zlatan's playing catch-up, and time is running out."

Zlatan, still feeling the effects of the Angle Slam, lay on the mat, frustrated but determined. He knew the clock was ticking, and with Angle now in the lead, the pressure was mounting. The WWE Universe could feel the tension rising as the match entered its final phase, with both men fighting not only for the next fall but for the chance to face Big Show for the WWE Championship at Armageddon.

With the scoreboard reading 2-1 in his favor, Kurt Angle was feeling the momentum shift in his direction. After nailing Zlatan Ibrahimović with the Angle Slam and securing the crucial second decision, Angle took a moment to bask in the reaction from the Columbia crowd. Despite the mix of jeers and cheers, Angle couldn't help but spread his arms wide, letting out a triumphant "Woo!" as he soaked in the atmosphere.

Michael Cole acknowledged the moment. "Angle's feeling confident now, Tazz. He's got the lead, and you can see it in his face—he knows he's in control."

Tazz, appreciating Angle's strategy, added, "And that's what makes Kurt Angle so dangerous, Cole. He's got the lead, and now he can dictate the pace. With 12 minutes left, it's all about playing it smart, and Kurt knows that better than anyone."

As the clock ticked down, Angle remained composed, methodically planning his next attack. He knew he had Zlatan at a disadvantage and wasn't about to let the Lion of Rosengård recover. The crowd, still buzzing from the rapid exchanges, watched as Angle moved in to continue his assault, determined to widen the gap and secure another fall.

Angle, confident and calculating, began to wear down Zlatan with precision. He pulled Zlatan up from the mat, still keeping him grounded by focusing on his midsection and weakened ankle. With calculated strikes and submission holds, Angle sought to sap Zlatan's energy, keeping him at bay and limiting his ability to mount a comeback.

Michael Cole chimed in, "Angle's taking his time here. He knows Zlatan is dangerous if he can build momentum, so Kurt's working smart, making sure Zlatan stays grounded."

Tazz nodded, adding, "Yeah, and that's the key, Cole. If Zlatan gets going, he's tough to stop. Kurt's working that midsection and leg, and with 12 minutes left, he's got to keep Zlatan from getting any offense."

Angle whipped Zlatan into the ropes and delivered a quick belly-to-belly suplex, sending Zlatan crashing back down to the mat with authority. The crowd let out a mixed reaction as Angle immediately covered Zlatan, looking to score yet another fall.

1… 2…

But Zlatan, despite the punishment he'd taken, kicked out before the three-count, showing he still had fight left in him. The crowd erupted in cheers, rallying behind Zlatan as the battle continued.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "Zlatan kicks out! He's not done yet!"

Tazz added, "Zlatan's still in this, but with the time running down, he's got to make a move soon, or Angle's gonna walk out of here with the win."

Angle, though slightly frustrated, didn't let the kickout rattle him. With just under 12 minutes remaining, he knew he had the lead and the time to control the pace. The pressure was now on Zlatan to find a way back into the match, but Angle, confident in his strategy, was determined to maintain his advantage.

The WWE Universe was fully engaged, knowing the next few minutes could determine who would walk away with the victory and a shot at the WWE Championship at Armageddon. Angle, still in control, knew he was close—but Zlatan wasn't ready to go down without a fight.

With the clock ticking and his confidence surging, Kurt Angle stayed focused on keeping Zlatan Ibrahimović on the defensive. After Zlatan kicked out of the pin attempt, Angle wasted no time in dragging the Lion of Rosengård back to his feet. Angle unleashed a series of heavy right hands, each blow landing with precision, backing Zlatan into the corner of the ring. The strikes were powerful, each one calculated to sap more energy from Zlatan and keep him from gaining any momentum.

As Angle continued to batter Zlatan, the Columbia crowd erupted into the infamous "Angle Sucks!" chant. The fans, always ready to get under Angle's skin, tried to distract him with the taunt, but Angle, determined to secure another fall, barely acknowledged it.

Michael Cole, picking up on the crowd's energy, commented, "The 'Angle Sucks' chants are filling the arena, but Kurt Angle is focused, keeping Zlatan trapped in that corner with those heavy right hands."

Tazz, impressed by Angle's ability to tune out the crowd, added, "You can tell the crowd's trying to get to Angle, Cole, but he's not letting it faze him. He's got Zlatan in a bad spot right now, and Kurt knows this is his chance to keep him down."

Zlatan, his back against the turnbuckles, absorbed the brutal onslaught of punches, his body rocking with each impact. Angle, unwavering in his attack, maintained control, determined to grind Zlatan down even further. With less than 12 minutes remaining, Angle knew that one more fall could seal his victory in this Iron Man match.

The crowd's chants grew louder, but Angle, laser-focused, refused to let his attention waver. He continued to deliver blow after blow, his fists connecting with Zlatan's head and body, punishing the Lion of Rosengård.

Michael Cole, feeling the intensity, called the action. "Angle is relentless right now! He's hammering Zlatan with those right hands, and the crowd's not making it any easier on him!"

Tazz added, "This is vintage Angle, Cole. He's keeping Zlatan trapped, making sure he doesn't have a chance to breathe."

Kurt Angle, maintaining his aggressive pace, knew he had Zlatan Ibrahimović in a vulnerable position. After hammering Zlatan with a series of right hands and cornering him, Angle took the next step to ensure his control. With the Lion of Rosengård reeling, Angle quickly executed a snap mare takedown, smoothly transitioning Zlatan from the corner to the center of the ring.

The crowd's jeers continued to echo throughout the arena, but Angle remained focused. He dropped down behind Zlatan and applied a tight rear chin lock, locking his arms around Zlatan's head and neck. The pressure was immediate, Angle's grip strong as he kept Zlatan trapped, slowing the match down and wearing down his opponent.

Michael Cole, recognizing the technical brilliance of Angle's move, called the action. "Snap mare takedown by Angle, and now he's got that rear chin lock applied! He's looking to grind Zlatan down, slow the pace, and control the final minutes of this match."

Tazz, impressed with the strategy, added, "That's textbook Angle, Cole. He's not rushing it. He's got the lead, and now he's making sure Zlatan can't catch his breath or build any momentum. This is smart wrestling."

With the rear chin lock locked in tight, Angle wrenched back, applying even more pressure to Zlatan's neck and upper body. The Lion of Rosengård grimaced in pain, struggling to breathe as Angle's grip tightened. The crowd, sensing that Zlatan was in trouble, began to chant his name, trying to will him back into the match. But Angle was in full control, his technique flawless as he kept Zlatan grounded.

The camera zoomed in on Angle's focused expression, his eyes fixed on the task at hand. He leaned in closer, keeping Zlatan's head and neck tightly secured, determined to sap every ounce of energy from his opponent.

Michael Cole noted the stakes. "There are less than 10 minutes left, and Kurt Angle has Zlatan exactly where he wants him. He's grinding him down, and if Zlatan can't find a way out, Angle's going to walk out of here with the win."

Tazz added, "Yeah, and the thing is, Cole, even if Zlatan doesn't tap here, this chin lock is going to drain him. He needs to get out of this hold if he wants a chance at evening the score."

Zlatan, trapped in the center of the ring, clawed at Angle's hands, trying to pry them loose, but the Olympian's grip was like iron. The clock was ticking, and with each passing second, Zlatan's energy drained away. The rear chin lock was perfectly executed, and Angle knew that every second he kept Zlatan in the hold brought him closer to victory.

With Kurt Angle in full control, his rear chin lock expertly applied, Zlatan Ibrahimović seemed to be fading fast. The pressure on his neck and upper body, combined with the ticking clock, had the Lion of Rosengård in a dire situation. But as the crowd's chants for Zlatan grew louder, their energy surged through him. They weren't ready to see him go down, and neither was he.

Michael Cole sensed the shift. "The crowd here in Columbia is rallying behind Zlatan, and he's starting to feed off that energy! He's trying to fight his way out of this!"

Tazz added, "Zlatan's got a ton of heart, Cole. He's not out of this yet."

Fueled by the WWE Universe chanting his name, Zlatan began to fight back. With sheer determination, he forced himself up to one knee, despite Angle's relentless grip. The crowd roared as Zlatan pushed up, inch by inch, rising to his feet, carrying Angle's weight with him. Angle, sensing the momentum shifting, tried to wrench back harder on the hold, but Zlatan refused to be kept down.

With a surge of power, Zlatan managed to shift his body behind Angle. In one swift motion, he wrapped his arms around Angle's waist and executed a back suplex, driving Angle into the mat with a thunderous impact. The crowd exploded as both men crashed to the canvas, Zlatan finally breaking free from Angle's hold.

Michael Cole was fired up. "Zlatan with a back suplex! He's out of the hold! This crowd is electric!"

Tazz nodded in approval. "That's the resilience of Zlatan, Cole! He fed off this crowd, and now he's back in it!"

The momentum had shifted, and for the first time in several minutes, Zlatan had created an opening for himself. Angle, stunned by the suplex, lay on the mat as Zlatan took a moment to catch his breath. The clock continued to tick down, but now the match had a new energy, and the WWE Universe knew that Zlatan wasn't done yet.

The Lion of Rosengård slowly got to his feet, fueled by the adrenaline of the crowd's chants. With the score still 2-1 in Angle's favor and time running out, Zlatan had to move quickly to even the score. The battle wasn't over yet, and Zlatan had shown that, even when things looked bleak, he could turn the tide in an instant.

With just 9 minutes left on the clock and Kurt Angle still up two decisions to one, the pressure was mounting for Zlatan Ibrahimović. He had broken free from Angle's control, but with time running out, he needed to make every second count if he wanted to even the score and force a tie.

Back on his feet, Zlatan wasted no time. He fired a right hand that connected with Angle's jaw, and the Olympian quickly responded with a punch of his own. Back and forth, the two titans traded blows, each strike more powerful than the last. The intensity of the exchange electrified the arena as the crowd got louder with every punch.

Michael Cole, his voice rising with the intensity of the moment, called the action. "Here we go! Zlatan and Angle exchanging right hands! This is a slugfest!"

Tazz, recognizing the danger for Angle, jumped in. "This is not what Angle should be doing, Cole. Exchanging hands with Zlatan is not smart. The Lion of Rosengård hits hard—real hard."

As the exchange continued, Zlatan's strikes grew fiercer, each punch landing with more force. The Lion of Rosengård was starting to overpower Angle, and the crowd could sense that Zlatan was gaining the upper hand. With a burst of energy, Zlatan switched it up, unleashing a barrage of right and left hands in quick succession, his fists flying with precision and power.

Tazz exclaimed, "Here comes the Lion! Zlatan's throwing bombs, Cole!"

Michael Cole added, "Zlatan's in full control now! He's fighting like his back is against the wall, and with 9 minutes left, he knows he's got to even the score!"

Zlatan's combination of punches forced Angle back, his defenses faltering as the crowd roared in approval. With the clock ticking down, Zlatan knew he had to capitalize on this momentum. Angle, still trying to fire back, was clearly struggling to keep up with the power and speed of Zlatan's strikes.

The WWE Universe was fully behind Zlatan, sensing that the tide was turning in his favor. The punches continued to rain down, and Angle, for the first time in several minutes, was on the defensive. Zlatan's fists connected again and again, the Lion of Rosengård roaring back into the match with full force.

With the clock winding down and only 9 minutes left in the Iron Man match, Zlatan Ibrahimović knew he had to make a move. The momentum was swinging in his favor, and he wasn't about to let it slip. After overpowering Kurt Angle in a fierce exchange of punches, Zlatan whipped Angle across the ring. But Angle, using his veteran instincts, reversed the whip, sending Zlatan into the ropes instead.

As Angle prepared to land a right hand, Zlatan ducked underneath it, building momentum as he bounced off the opposite ropes. He came flying back with a flying forearm, connecting with Angle's head and sending him crashing to the mat. The crowd erupted as Zlatan stood tall, clearly feeling the adrenaline rushing through his body.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "Flying forearm by Zlatan! He's got Angle reeling now!"

Tazz, watching closely, added, "Zlatan's cooking now, Cole. Angle's gotta be careful—Zlatan's dangerous when he's in this zone."

With Angle down, Zlatan followed up with a series of precise kicks and jabs, each one forcing Angle to retreat further into the ropes. The Lion of Rosengård was in full control, using his striking power to overwhelm the Olympian. The crowd rallied behind Zlatan, sensing the shift in energy.

Then, with a burst of strength, Zlatan clasped his hands around Angle's waist. The arena gasped as Zlatan executed a powerful belly-to-belly suplex, sending Angle flying across the ring. The impact was thunderous, but Zlatan wasn't done yet. He dragged Angle back to his feet and hit another belly-to-belly suplex, the second one just as devastating as the first.

Michael Cole was on his feet. "Two belly-to-belly suplexes! Zlatan's on fire!"

Tazz added, "Zlatan's feeling it, Cole. Angle's in trouble here!"

Feeding off the crowd's energy, Zlatan didn't let up. He grabbed Angle by the arm and dragged him into the corner, where he unleashed a flurry of brutal body shots. Each punch and hook landed with pinpoint accuracy, battering Angle's ribs as the Olympian tried to cover up and defend himself. But Zlatan's strikes were relentless, each one designed to sap Angle's energy and keep him trapped in the corner.

The WWE Universe could feel the intensity as Zlatan unleashed a final, devastating uppercut, sending Angle's head snapping back. The Olympian slumped in the corner, clearly rattled by the barrage of strikes.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "What an uppercut! Zlatan is taking it to Angle!"

Tazz nodded in approval. "Zlatan's going for broke, Cole. He knows time is running out, and he's doing everything he can to even the score."

With the momentum fully in his favor and the crowd behind him, Zlatan Ibrahimović was determined to press his advantage. After pummeling Kurt Angle with a series of powerful belly-to-belly suplexes and body shots, Zlatan whipped Angle toward the ropes, looking to continue his relentless assault. But as Angle rebounded off the ropes, he managed to duck under Zlatan's incoming right hand, narrowly avoiding the strike.

However, Angle's escape was short-lived.

Zlatan, showing his agility, quickly turned and met Angle with a Lou Thesz press, driving Angle hard into the mat. The crowd erupted as Zlatan mounted Angle, delivering a barrage of rapid-fire right hands, each one landing with precision as the Lion of Rosengård unleashed his fury on the Olympian.

Michael Cole's voice boomed with excitement. "Lou Thesz press! Zlatan is all over Angle! Those right hands are raining down on the Olympian!"

Tazz added, "Zlatan's not letting Angle breathe, Cole. He's got him right where he wants him!"

With Angle stunned and down on the mat, Zlatan got back to his feet, the crowd roaring in approval as he bounced off the ropes. Building momentum, Zlatan leaped into the air and came crashing down with a senton, flattening Angle beneath his massive frame. The impact shook the ring, and Zlatan quickly hooked the leg for the pinfall.

Referee Brian Hebner dropped to the mat for the count.

1… 2…

But at the last possible moment, Kurt Angle managed to kick out, refusing to give up. The crowd gasped in surprise, some cheering for Angle's resilience, while others groaned in frustration, wanting Zlatan to even the score.

Michael Cole shouted, "Angle kicks out! How close was that?!"

Tazz nodded. "Zlatan's got to stay on him, Cole. He can't let up now—he's got Angle on the ropes!"

Zlatan, though slightly frustrated by the kickout, knew he still had time. With just a few minutes remaining in the Iron Man match, Zlatan had to capitalize on every opportunity. The clock was ticking, but the Lion of Rosengård wasn't about to let Kurt Angle off the hook.

As the match approached its final moments, the intensity inside the arena was at its peak. Zlatan had the crowd behind him and the momentum on his side, but Angle, ever the resilient competitor, was still in the fight. The next few minutes would determine the outcome of this grueling contest, and the WWE Universe was on the edge of their seats, fully invested in the battle unfolding before them.

With just 8 minutes left in the grueling 30-minute Iron Man match, both Zlatan Ibrahimović and Kurt Angle were running on fumes. Zlatan, still in control after landing the senton, pulled Angle up to his feet, knowing time was running out to even the score. But the ever-cunning Kurt Angle, desperate to keep his advantage, raked Zlatan's eyes, momentarily blinding him and slowing his momentum.

Michael Cole, clearly shocked, exclaimed, "Angle with a rake to the eyes! He's doing anything he can to keep the lead!"

Tazz, recognizing Angle's tactics, added, "That's desperation, Cole. Angle knows Zlatan's dangerous, and he's trying to slow him down by any means necessary."

With Zlatan momentarily disoriented, Angle seized the opportunity and went for his patented Angle Slam. He hooked Zlatan, ready to deliver the move that had secured so many victories. But Zlatan, with a burst of energy and instinct, slipped out of Angle's grasp at the last second, landing behind him.

In one fluid motion, Zlatan kicked Angle hard in the midsection, doubling him over, before planting him face-first into the mat with a vicious Flatliner. The crowd erupted as Angle's head bounced off the canvas, and Zlatan quickly went for the cover, hooking the leg as referee Brian Hebner dropped down to make the count.

1… 2…

But once again, Kurt Angle dug deep and managed to get his shoulder up just before the three-count. The crowd gasped in disbelief, some cheering for Angle's resilience while others groaned in frustration, hoping Zlatan would even the score.

Michael Cole was beside himself. "How did Angle kick out of that? Zlatan hit that Flatliner perfectly!"

Tazz, equally impressed, added, "Angle's a tough customer, Cole. He's been through wars like this before. But Zlatan's gotta stay on him—time is not on his side."

Despite the frustration of Angle's kickout, Zlatan knew he couldn't afford to lose focus. The clock continued to tick down, with less than 8 minutes remaining, and the score still stood at 2-1 in Angle's favor. Zlatan had the crowd behind him and the momentum on his side, but he needed to secure the next fall if he wanted any chance of winning this high-stakes match and earning a shot at the WWE Championship at Armageddon.

With just minutes left on the clock and the score still 2-1 in Kurt Angle's favor, Zlatan Ibrahimović knew he had to pull out all the stops. After Angle kicked out of the devastating DDT, Zlatan was determined to keep the pressure on. He dragged the groggy Olympian back to his feet and, with impressive strength, scooped him onto his shoulders. In one swift move, Zlatan drove Angle's face into the top turnbuckle with Snake Eyes, stunning him.

The crowd roared in approval as Zlatan, sensing his moment, bounced off the ropes with full force, aiming for a spear to take Angle down. But the ever-resourceful Kurt Angle, showing his technical prowess, dodged at the last second, slipping behind Zlatan and locking his hands around Zlatan's waist. Before Zlatan could react, Angle delivered a German suplex, sending Zlatan crashing to the mat with authority.

Tazz, his voice full of excitement, called the action. "German suplex! And Angle's not done, Cole—look at him go!"

Angle, his grip still firmly around Zlatan's waist, executed a second German suplex, and the crowd erupted. The intensity in Angle's eyes was unmistakable as he transitioned into a third German suplex, the impact reverberating through the ring. The momentum was fully with Angle, and the crowd could sense he was gearing up for something big.

Michael Cole shouted, "Three German suplexes! Kurt Angle is on fire!"

Tazz added, "You know what's coming next, Cole—Angle's ready to finish this!"

With the crowd on its feet, Kurt Angle stood tall, adrenaline pumping through his veins. In a dramatic display, Angle ripped the straps of his singlet down, a signal to the WWE Universe that the Olympic hero was ready to put Zlatan away for good. Angle positioned himself, crouched in the corner, his eyes locked on Zlatan as he groggily began to get to his feet.

"Angle's setting up for the Angle Slam! If he hits this, it's all over!" Michael Cole exclaimed.

Tazz, sensing the finality of the moment, added, "This is it, Cole! Angle's gonna finish him off!"

As Zlatan staggered to his feet, still feeling the effects of the German suplexes, Angle charged in for the second Angle Slam. But Zlatan, with an instinctive burst of energy, slipped out of Angle's grasp, shoving him toward the ropes. The crowd gasped as Angle rebounded off the ropes, running straight into Zlatan.

And in one fluid motion, Zlatan caught Angle with a massive spinning spinebuster, driving him into the mat with thunderous force. The entire arena shook as Angle hit the canvas, and the crowd erupted in disbelief at the counter.

Michael Cole was in awe. "What a counter! Spinebuster from Zlatan! There's only one Zlatan!"

Tazz, equally amazed, added, "Unbelievable! Just when Angle thought he had him, Zlatan pulls out that spinebuster!"

Zlatan, feeding off the energy of the crowd, stood over Angle and made his signature cutthroat taunt, signaling that he was ready to finish the match. The Lion of Rosengård was fully in control now, and the WWE Universe could feel the tension rising as the clock ticked down.

"The Lion is ready to roar!" Michael Cole shouted. "Zlatan's about to even the score!"

With the crowd on their feet and time ticking down, Zlatan Ibrahimović knew it was now or never. After delivering a devastating spinning spinebuster to Kurt Angle, the Lion of Rosengård had the Olympian reeling. Sensing the momentum firmly in his grasp, Zlatan moved to the corner, a determined look on his face. The crowd roared as Zlatan began stomping the mat, signaling the arrival of his finisher, the Lion's Roar.

Michael Cole, his voice filled with excitement, called the moment. "Zlatan's setting up for the Lion's Roar! If he hits this, we're going to be tied!"

Tazz added, "Angle's got no idea what's coming, Cole. Zlatan's about to send him to Valhalla!"

Angle, still dazed from the spinebuster, slowly stumbled back to his feet, unaware of the danger lurking behind him. The crowd held their breath as Angle turned around, just in time to see Zlatan charging out of the corner like a predator ready to strike.

With perfect precision, Zlatan unleashed the Lion's Roar, a brutal superkick that connected flush with Angle's jaw. The impact echoed throughout the arena, and the force of the kick nearly sent Angle into another dimension. The crowd erupted as Angle crumpled to the mat, completely laid out by the devastating blow.

Michael Cole shouted, "Lion's Roar! The superkick connects! Angle's down! Angle's down!"

Tazz, clearly impressed, added, "That kick almost sent Angle straight to Valhalla, Cole! What a shot by Zlatan!"

Wasting no time, Zlatan quickly dropped down and hooked Angle's leg, going for the cover. The referee slid in, and the entire arena counted along as the referee's hand slapped the mat.

1… 2… 3!

The bell rang, and the crowd erupted in a frenzy. Zlatan had done it—he had evened the score, tying the match at 2-2 with just 5 minutes remaining in the 30-minute Iron Man match. The WWE Universe couldn't believe it, their cheers shaking the arena as Zlatan stood tall.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "We're tied! Zlatan has evened the score! It's 2-2 with 5 minutes left in this Iron Man match!"

Tazz added, "What a comeback! Zlatan's not just hanging in there—he's taking it to Angle! Now it's anyone's game!"

Both men were battered, exhausted, and running on pure adrenaline, but the match was far from over. With just 5 minutes remaining and the score tied, the next fall would determine who would walk out with a shot at the WWE Championship at Armageddon. The WWE Universe was on the edge of their seats, knowing that every second mattered as the battle between these two warriors reached its dramatic conclusion.

Both Zlatan Ibrahimović and Kurt Angle were feeling the effects of this grueling 30-minute Iron Man match as the clock ticked down with only a few minutes remaining. Their bodies were battered, their stamina fading, but the score was tied 2-2, and neither man was willing to back down. The WWE Universe was fully invested, knowing that the next fall would decide who would walk out with a shot at the WWE Championship at Armageddon.

As they slowly pulled themselves back to their feet, both men were visibly fatigued, their chests heaving as they struggled for breath. But Zlatan, ever the opportunist, saw his chance. With pure adrenaline coursing through him, Zlatan charged toward Angle, ducking under a right hand from the Olympian and bouncing off the ropes for added momentum.

As Angle turned around, he was met by a spear from Zlatan, driving him hard into the mat. The impact was massive, and the crowd erupted as Zlatan wasted no time, immediately hooking the leg for the cover.

Michael Cole was on the edge of his seat. "Spear by Zlatan! He could have it here! The cover!"

Referee Brian Hebner dropped down to make the count.

1… 2…

But once again, Kurt Angle showed his incredible resilience, kicking out just before the count of three. The crowd gasped in disbelief, some cheering for Angle's heart, while others groaned, hoping Zlatan had sealed the victory.

Tazz was equally stunned. "Angle kicks out! I don't know how, but he's still in this!"

Michael Cole added, "Both of these men are running on fumes, but neither one is giving an inch! We're down to the final minutes, and it's still anyone's match!"

Zlatan, frustrated but determined, sat up and looked at the clock. Time was ticking down, and with every second that passed, the tension in the arena grew. Both men knew that the next move could decide the outcome of this epic battle, and the WWE Universe could feel the urgency in the air.

As Zlatan slowly rose to his feet, the question remained: Could he find the strength to deliver one more decisive blow, or would Angle summon the will to turn the tide in his favor? The final minutes of this Iron Man match were set to be an unforgettable clash, and the WWE Universe was ready for whatever came next.

With only minutes left in the match, Zlatan Ibrahimović, determined to secure the winning fall, positioned himself in the corner. The crowd was electric as Zlatan prepared for another Lion's Roar, his devastating superkick. His eyes locked on Kurt Angle, who was still clutching his midsection, reeling from the earlier spear. The WWE Universe knew this could be the finishing blow.

Michael Cole shouted, "Zlatan's going for another Lion's Roar! If he hits this, it's over!"

As Angle, visibly hurting, staggered to his feet, Zlatan charged out of the corner, his leg swinging up for the Lion's Roar. But Angle, displaying his remarkable instincts, ducked at the last second. In a split-second counter, he grabbed Zlatan and lifted him high, delivering a thunderous Angle Slam.

The crowd erupted, feeling the impact as both men crashed to the mat. Angle, sensing his chance, hooked Zlatan's leg and covered him for the pin. The referee slid in for the count.

1… 2…

But at the very last moment, Zlatan managed to kick out, defying the odds and refusing to stay down. The entire arena erupted in shock, some cheering, others gasping, as the match remained tied with only minutes left on the clock.

Michael Cole was beside himself. "Zlatan kicked out! I don't believe it! How did he survive the Angle Slam?"

Tazz, equally astonished, added, "Angle thought he had it, Cole. He thought that was it! This match is unreal!"

Kurt Angle, clearly stunned, sat up and looked at referee Brian Hebner with disbelief. He held up three fingers, insisting that it had been a three-count. Hebner, firm in his decision, shook his head and held up two fingers, confirming that Zlatan had kicked out just in time.

Angle, frustrated but determined, took a deep breath, knowing he was running out of options and time. The crowd was on its feet, fully invested in the closing moments of this intense battle. Both men were battered, exhausted, and desperate for the victory, but with the score still tied, they knew that the next move could determine their fate.

With only 2 minutes left on the clock, Kurt Angle, desperate to secure the decisive fall, made his move. He grabbed hold of Zlatan's ankle, twisting and locking him into his signature Ankle Lock for the second time in the match. The crowd erupted, knowing that this could be the moment that decided the entire Iron Man match.

Michael Cole shouted, "Angle's got the Ankle Lock! He's got Zlatan right in the middle of the ring! If Zlatan taps, it's over!"

Tazz added, "Angle knows he's got the advantage here, Cole. He's wrenching that ankle, doing everything he can to get Zlatan to tap!"

Angle, his face a mask of determination, leaned in closer, shouting at Zlatan, "Tap! Come on, tap out!" The pressure on Zlatan's ankle was immense, and the Lion of Rosengård clawed at the mat, gritting his teeth as he fought the pain. He stretched his hand toward the bottom rope, inching closer with every second as the clock continued to wind down.

Just as Zlatan's fingers brushed against the rope, Angle yanked him back to the center of the ring, doubling down on the hold. The crowd was on its feet, fully aware that Zlatan's chances were slipping away as the seconds ticked by.

Michael Cole, filled with tension, shouted, "Angle's got him! He's not letting Zlatan escape—this could be it!"

But in a last-ditch effort, Zlatan managed to roll through, reversing the momentum and pulling Angle into an inside cradle. Referee Brian Hebner dropped down for the count.

1… 2…

Angle kicked out just before three, narrowly avoiding the pinfall. Both men scrambled to their feet, exhausted but knowing that only one move could win the match now.

As Angle swung a desperate right hand, Zlatan ducked under it, quickly executing a double-leg takedown. With flawless precision, Zlatan transitioned into his signature hold, The Malmö Bridge—a modified bridged sharpshooter, locking Angle in the center of the ring. The crowd exploded, sensing that the end was near as Zlatan cranked back on the hold, pouring every ounce of energy he had left into the submission.

Michael Cole was on the edge of his seat. "Zlatan's got the Malmö Bridge locked in! Angle's trapped in the center of the ring with only seconds left!"

Tazz, just as excited, added, "This is it, Cole! If Angle taps, Zlatan wins the match!"

Angle, trapped and with nowhere to go, clawed at the mat, his face twisted in agony as Zlatan applied maximum pressure. The clock ticked down, each second feeling like an eternity as the WWE Universe chanted for Zlatan, willing him to hold on.

With less than a minute left, Angle struggled, trying to pull himself toward the ropes, but Zlatan held firm, keeping the hold locked in the middle of the ring. The entire arena was on its feet, knowing that Angle's only options were to tap out or survive the final seconds.

The countdown began, and the tension was palpable as the seconds ticked away. Would Angle tap, or would he survive until the final bell?

With only seconds remaining in the match, Kurt Angle was trapped in Zlatan Ibrahimović's signature hold, The Malmö Bridge, his face contorted in pain. Referee Brian Hebner crouched close, asking Angle if he wanted to tap, but the resilient Olympian shook his head defiantly, refusing to give in.

The WWE Universe was on its feet, chanting as the clock ticked down, each second feeling like a lifetime. Angle, determined to survive, began clawing his way toward the bottom rope, inch by agonizing inch. His hand stretched out, fingers brushing against the rope, but Zlatan, sensing the danger, gritted his teeth and dragged Angle back to the center of the ring, renewing the pressure.

Michael Cole's voice was filled with urgency. "Zlatan's got him! He's dragging Angle back to the middle of the ring! Angle's got nowhere to go!"

Tazz added, "This is it, Cole! Time's running out, and Angle is trapped with nowhere to escape!"

Angle, with sheer determination, tried to power through the pain, his body trembling as he fought against Zlatan's relentless grip. The clock ticked down as the crowd counted along with each second, their anticipation building with every tick of the countdown.

10… 9… 8…

The arena was electric, the fans chanting louder with each number, urging Zlatan to hold on and willing Angle to tap. The pain was unbearable, and Angle's face showed it, but the Olympian refused to give in, gritting his teeth as he tried to withstand the excruciating hold.

5… 4…

Zlatan poured every ounce of strength into the bridge, his face etched with determination, while Angle, holding on for dear life, shook his head one last time, his hand hovering over the mat.

3… 2… 1…

The final bell rang, signaling the end of the 30-minute Iron Man match. The crowd erupted as the referee separated the two exhausted competitors, both men collapsing to the mat, drained from the battle they had endured.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "It's over! The match has ended, and we're still tied at 2-2!"

Tazz, equally in awe, added, "What a match, Cole! These two went to war, and neither one could put the other away."

The WWE Universe, on its feet, gave a thunderous ovation to both men, acknowledging the epic contest they had just witnessed. As officials entered the ring to assist the exhausted competitors, the crowd began chanting, "One more fall! One more fall!"

As the exhausted competitors lay on the mat, the crowd buzzed with anticipation, eager for a decisive end to this battle. At ringside, referee Brian Hebner quietly conferred with ring announcer Tony Chimel, the tension in the air building with each passing second. Finally, Tony Chimel raised the microphone to his lips, and the arena fell silent in anticipation.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Tony announced, "As a result of this match ending with two falls apiece after the 30-minute time limit has expired, the referee has ordered that this match will continue in sudden death!"

The crowd exploded with cheers, and chants of "This is awesome!" filled the arena as the WWE Universe recognized the stakes. Both Zlatan Ibrahimović and Kurt Angle stirred on the mat, each man slowly pushing himself up, their faces showing the toll this grueling Iron Man match had taken on them. Yet, despite the exhaustion, both competitors knew this was their final chance to secure victory.

Michael Cole, his voice filled with excitement, exclaimed, "We're going to sudden death! This match won't end until one of these men scores a decisive fall!"

Tazz added, "I don't know how either of these guys are still standing, Cole, but they're about to push themselves beyond their limits. This is what it's all about!"

With the announcement made, the referee signaled for the bell, and the sudden death period began. Both men rose slowly, their bodies battered but their eyes locked with determination. The next fall would decide everything—the winner would move on to challenge for the WWE Championship at Armageddon.

With the crowd on its feet, Zlatan Ibrahimović and Kurt Angle stood toe-to-toe, beginning to trade brutal punches in the middle of the ring. Neither man was willing to back down, each punch driven by the desire to secure the final fall in this sudden death showdown. The WWE Universe was fully invested, knowing that whoever scored the next decision would earn a shot at Big Show's WWE Championship at Armageddon.

In a surge of energy, Zlatan managed to scoop Angle onto his shoulders, carrying him to the corner and slamming him down with Snake Eyes. Angle stumbled back, dazed, as Zlatan bounced off the ropes and charged forward, aiming to take Angle down with a clothesline. But Angle, ever the ring general, ducked at the last moment, causing Zlatan to miss his target and crash into referee Brian Hebner, who was standing just behind Angle.

The crowd gasped as Hebner went down, clutching his head, leaving no one to officiate the match.

Michael Cole exclaimed, "Brian Hebner's down! There's no referee! Zlatan had this match won, but now there's no one to make the count!"

Taking advantage of the situation, Angle attempted another Angle Slam, but Zlatan slipped out, landing on his feet behind him. Without missing a beat, Zlatan unleashed his devastating Lion's Roar superkick, connecting flush with Angle's jaw. Angle collapsed to the mat, and Zlatan immediately covered him, hooking the leg.

The crowd counted along, "One! Two! Three!" But no official was there to call it. Zlatan, frustrated, looked around the ring, realizing that Hebner was still down.

Desperate, Zlatan moved over to the fallen referee, shaking him, trying to bring him back to consciousness. The crowd's cheers suddenly shifted as they began to notice movement in the front row. Out of nowhere, Triple H, "The Game," leaped over the barricade, making his way into the ring from the crowd, still dressed in street clothes. The fans erupted in mixed reactions, knowing that the Game's presence was bound to spell trouble.

Michael Cole, in shock, shouted, "What is Triple H doing here? He's a RAW Superstar! He has no business in this match!"

Tazz added, "I don't know what he's planning, Cole, but this can't be good for Zlatan!"

Hearing the crowd's reaction, Zlatan turned around, just in time to see Triple H standing in the ring, but too late to defend himself. The Game delivered a vicious kick to Zlatan's midsection, doubling him over before pulling him into position. With one swift motion, Triple H executed the Pedigree, driving Zlatan's face into the mat with devastating force. The crowd's shock was palpable as Triple H rose, his expression cold and calculated.

Having done his damage, Triple H glanced around with a smug look and made his way back over the barricade, disappearing into the crowd, his interference complete.

Michael Cole shouted, "I can't believe this! Triple H just hit the Pedigree on Zlatan! This match has been completely sabotaged!"

Tazz, just as shocked, added, "Triple H just took out Zlatan, Cole! And look at Angle—he's stirring!"

With both men battered and barely conscious, Kurt Angle, still unaware of Triple H's interference, began to rise to his feet, his movements slow and labored. His vision was hazy, and he only saw Zlatan Ibrahimović lying motionless on the mat, a result of The Game's devastating Pedigree moments earlier. Dragging Zlatan's dead weight, Angle moved him over to the corner, summoning every ounce of strength he had left.

The crowd watched in stunned silence as Angle, determined to finish the match, climbed to the top turnbuckle with Zlatan in tow. With one final effort, Angle launched them both into the air, executing a Top Rope Angle Slam. The impact shook the ring, and the exhausted Olympian managed to drape his arm over Zlatan's chest for the cover.

Michael Cole, in disbelief, shouted, "Top Rope Angle Slam! This could be it!"

Referee Brian Hebner, still dazed and recovering from the earlier collision, crawled toward the fallen competitors. With the crowd counting along, he raised his hand and began the count.

1… 2… 3!

The bell rang, signaling the end of the match. The crowd erupted with a mix of cheers and boos as Angle lay motionless beside Zlatan, both men having given everything in this epic Iron Man match. Tony Chimel's voice echoed through the arena, making it official.

"Here is your winner, Kurt Angle!"

Michael Cole exclaimed, "Kurt Angle is going to Armageddon! But you have to wonder, would this have been the outcome without Triple H's interference?"

Tazz added, "I don't know, Cole. Both of these men left it all in the ring, but there's no doubt that Triple H's presence changed everything tonight."

As Angle's hand was raised in victory, he remained oblivious to the interference that had secured his win. Zlatan, still lying on the mat, was beginning to stir, realizing too late what had transpired. The WWE Universe, fully aware of the controversy, was buzzing with anticipation for the fallout from this unforgettable match. Angle would go on to Armageddon, but the path there had been anything but clean.

Kurt Angle, still dazed and unaware of the brewing chaos, pulled himself up, catching his breath after his hard-fought victory. But as the WWE Universe's cheers slowly turned to gasps, Angle remained oblivious to the ominous presence behind him. Big Show, the towering WWE Champion, had entered the ring, his eyes locked on the newly-crowned number-one contender.

As Angle finally turned around, he was met with Big Show's massive hand clasped around his throat, his grip unbreakable. The Giant leaned down, talking trash to Angle, reminding him who the real power in WWE was. Before Angle could react, Big Show lifted him high and brought him crashing down with a thunderous chokeslam that shook the ring. The crowd gasped as Angle lay motionless, the realization dawning that this battle was far from over.

Michael Cole, his voice full of urgency, shouted, "Big Show just chokeslammed Angle straight to the mat! The WWE Champion has made his statement!"

Tazz added, "This is a message, Cole. Big Show's showing Angle exactly what he's got waiting for him at Armageddon!"

With Angle sprawled on the mat, Paul Heyman, Big Show's agent and mouthpiece, entered the ring, his signature smug smile spreading across his face as he approached the fallen Olympian. Heyman crouched down beside Angle, mockingly patting him on the shoulder as he began to speak.

"Congratulations, Kurt," Heyman sneered, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "You survived the Iron Man match. But in 17 days, at Armageddon, survival won't be enough. You'll be standing face-to-face with the most dominant force in WWE history—the Big Show."

Heyman's words were as cold as they were cutting, as he leaned in even closer to Angle. "You think you're tough, Kurt? That you can outwrestle everyone in the world? Well, in 17 days, you'll be facing someone you can't outwrestle, can't outlast, and can't survive. At Armageddon, you're not just stepping into a ring—you're stepping into a nightmare."

With his message delivered, Heyman rose to his feet, joining Big Show, who stood tall over the fallen Angle. The WWE Champion raised his title belt high above his head, his eyes locked on the defeated challenger as a final, ominous reminder of what awaited him.

Michael Cole summed it up. "Big Show just sent a clear message to Kurt Angle: Armageddon will be his ultimate test. Can Angle overcome the Giant, or will Big Show prove too powerful?"

Tazz added, "After tonight, Cole, I think Angle's going to need everything he's got and then some. Big Show isn't just sending a message—he's making a promise."

With the stakes set and Armageddon looming, the WWE Universe was left with one haunting question: could Kurt Angle survive the wrath of the Big Show, or would the Giant's dominance claim yet another victim? The countdown to Armageddon had begun, and the war for the WWE Championship was only just starting.