Wrestling Information Archive - History of the WWE Brand Extension

March 23, 2001: The WWF has officially announced its purchase of WCW. The press release headlines: "World Wrestling Federation Entertainment, Inc. Acquires WCW from Turner Broadcasting" The subheadline reads: "Cross-Brand Storylines To Create Intriguing Possibilities for Fans. Expected to Increase Television Ratings, PPV Buys" The complete press release states: "STAMFORD, Conn., March 23, 2001 - World Wrestling Federation Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: WWF) today announced its purchase of the World Championship Wrestling (WCW) brand from Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. (TBS Inc.), a division of AOL Time Warner. The purchase of WCW creates a tag team partnership with the World Wrestling Federation brand that is expected to propel the sports entertainment genre to new heights."

March 24, 2001: The Pro Wrestling Torch released the names whose contracts were bought by the WWF along with the name 'WCW', the tape library and almost all the trademark names including the popular 'nWo'. These superstars are: Lance Storm, Sean O'Haire, Mike Awesome, Chuck Palumbo, Miss Hancock, Shane Helms, Shannon Moore, Mike Sanders, Hugh Morrus, Billy Kidman, Elix Skipper, Chavo Guerrero Jr., Shawn Stasiak, Kaz Hayashi, Yang, and Mark Jindrak. Dave Meltzer of the Observer reported that TNN agreed to carry a WCW show on Saturday nights between 11PM and 1AM EST.

March 26, 2001: (RAW - Also WCW Monday Nitro): Shane McMahon is revealed as t he "McMahon" who has purchased WCW. WWFE Chairman, Vince McMahon, appeared on NITRO for the very first time and announced that the WWFE has purchased WCW from Time-Warner/AOL. Also on NITRO, Booker T. wins his 4th WCW World Title by pinning Scott Steiner. And Billy Kidman and Rey Misterio Jr. defeated Elix Skipper and Kid Romeo for the WCW World Cruiserweight Tag Team Titles. Also, Vince McMahon, Trish Stratus, and Shane McMahon are the other two WWF wrestlers that appeared on NITRO and RAW at the same time. Rick Rude was the first wrestler to ever do that in 1998.

July 9, 2001 - RAW: Stephanie McMahon and Paul Heyman re-unite ECW talent (Justin Credible, Raven, Mike Awesome, Lance Storm, Rob Van Dam, Tommy Dreamer, Tazz, Rhyno, and the Dudley Boys) in an apparent "Alliance" with Shane McMahon's WCW faction.

November 18, 2001 - Survivor Series: Survivor Series Match (Winner Takes All): Team WWF (The Rock, Chris Jericho, The Undertaker, Kane, and The Big Show) defeated Team Alliance (Steve Austin, Kurt Angle, Booker T., Rob Van Dam, and Shane McMahon) (44:00). Big Show was eliminated at (12:40) by Shane McMahon. Shane McMahon was eliminated at (14:30) by Chris Jericho. Kane was eliminated at (18:19) by Rob Van Dam. Booker T. was eliminated at (22:33) by the Rock. Rob Van Dam was eliminated at (24:51) by Chris Jericho. Kurt Angle was eliminated at (31:53) by The Rock. Chris Jericho was eliminated at (34:29) by Steve Austin. Steve Austin was eliminated at (44:57) by the Rock. The Rock is the sole survivor.

November 19, 2001 - RAW: Ric Flair debuits on RAW as the purchaser of Shane & Stephanie McMahon's stock in the WWE, thus making him 50% co-owner of the WWE with Vince McMahon.

January 20, 2002 - Royal Rumble: Street Fight Match: Ric Flair defeated Vince McMahon (14:55) via submission (23:58).

March 18, 2002 � RAW: WWE CEO Linda McMahon announces that the failure of Co-Owners Vince McMahon and Ric Flair has resulted in a brand extension. The WWE roster would be split between Flair�s "RAW" brand and McMahon�s "SmackDown!" brand with a draft to be held the following week. McMahon won a coin toss to make the first selection. The WWE Undisputed Heavyweight Champion (Triple H � Hunter Hearst Helmsley) and WWE Women�s Champion (Jazz) will appear on both shows.

March 25, 2002 � RAW: WWE Co-Owners Ric Flair (RAW) and Vince McMahon (SmackDown!) draft their brand rosters, making selections 1-10. The remaining selections appear later that evening on WWE.com.

March 28, 2002 � SmackDown!: Final SmackDown! with scheduled RAW brand talent.

April 1, 2002 � RAW: Free agent Stone Cold Steve Austin apparently signs with Vince McMahon�s SmackDown!, but then declares it an "April Fool�s Day" joke and signs with Flair, and delivers a Stone Cold Stunner to both men for good measure.

Flair also presents Triple H with the unified WWE Undisputed Heavyweight Championship belt and names The Undertaker the #1 contender for the Backlash Pay-Per-View.

April 4, 2002 - SmackDown!: Owner Vince McMahon asserts his authority to name the #1 contender for Backlash over Ric Flair by virtue of winning the coin toss that also gave him the first draft selection. McMahon names Hollywood Hulk Hogan the #1 contender.

April 8, 2002 � RAW: Owner Ric Flair informs The Undertaker that he will choose the next #1 contender for the Undisputed Championship at the No Mercy Pay-Per-View. Stone Cold Steve Austin then declares his intention to face the champion at No Mercy. Flair books Austin against Scott Hall and The Undertaker against Rob Van Dam for later that evening.

Austin and The Undertaker win their respective matches, setting up a match between the two at Backlash, which will determine the #1 contender. Flair also announces he will referee the match.

April 18, 2002 � SmackDown!: Owner Vince McMahon informs Undisputed Champion Triple H that should he lose the title to Hollywood Hulk Hogan at Backlash, he will become exclusive property to the SmackDown! brand.

April 21, 2002 �Backlash Pay-Per-View: (Among other matches,) SmackDown�s Hollywood Hulk Hogan defeats WWE Undisputed Heavyweight Champion Triple H to win the title. In a RAW brand match, The Undertaker defeats Stone Cold Steve Austin to become the #1 contender. RAW brand owner Ric Flair was the special guest referee.

May 18, 2003 � Judgment Day Pay-Per-View: (Among other matches) The Undertaker (RAW) defeats WWE Undisputed Heavyweight Champion Hollywood Hulk Hogan to win the title, earning the right to appear on both shows. Hogan returns exclusively to SmackDown!

June 10, 2002 � RAW: SmackDown! brand owner Vince McMahon defeats RAW brand owner Ric Flair in a match to claim ownership of both brands.

July 15, 2002 � RAW: Vince McMahon, declaring a need to "shake things up", announces that the RAW and SmackDown! brands will now be controlled by General Managers that he will appoint. He introduces former WCW Executive Vice President Eric Bischoff as the RAW G.M. Bischoff begins an active campaign to recruit SmackDown! talents Triple H and The Rock.

July 18, 2002 � SmackDown!: Eric Bischoff appears and shows interest in several SmackDown! talents such as Edge and The Rock (who claims he will appear on RAW as the result of winning the WWE Undisputed Heavyweight Title).

Vince McMahon introduces his daughter Stephanie is introduced as the SmackDown! General Manager. She immediately takes action to remove Eric Bischoff from the arena and counter his recruitment of Triple H. Triple H postpones a decision until the Vengeance Pay-Per-View.

July 21, 2002 � Vengeance Pay-Per-View: Triple H, partially influenced by his close friend Shawn Michaels, chooses to defect to RAW. The Rock (SmackDown!) defeats WWE Undisputed Heavyweight Champion The Undertaker and SmackDown�s Kurt Angle in a triple threat match to win the title by pinning Angle. The Undertaker returns exclusively to RAW.

July 22, 2002 � RAW: Eric Bischoff moves the announcing table (along with Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler) to the top of the entrance ramp, similar to WCW�s old Monday Nitro program set. WWE Intercontinental Champion defeated WWE European Champion Rob Van Dam to retire the European title and retain the Intercontinental title.

July 25, 2002 � SmackDown!: Former WCW talent Rey Mysterio Jr. debuts, defeating Chavo Guerrero Jr.

July 29, 2002 � RAW: Chris Jericho, Test, and WWE World Tag-Team Champions Lance Storm and Christian defect to RAW. Chris Benoit defeats WWE Intercontinental Champion Rob Van Dam to win the title.

August 1, 2002 � SmackDown!: WWE Intercontinental Champion Chris Benoit and Eddy Guerrero defect to SmackDown!

August 8, 2002 � SmackDown! � Stacy Kiebler intercepts several documents from Dawn Marie meant for G.M. Stephanie McMahon and passes them along to a hidding Eric Bischoff.

August 12, 2002 � RAW: Stacy Kiebler defects to RAW. Matt Hardy attacks his brother Jeff during a match against Rob Van Dam to determine the #1 contender for the WWE Intercontinental Champion Chris Benoit at Summerslam.

August 15, 2002 � SmackDown!: Matt Hardy defects to SmackDown! Stephanie McMahon informs Dawn Marie that the intercepted documents were a rematch contract for the WWE Intercontinental title at Summerslam between Champion Chris Benoit and the #1 contender, RAW�s Rob Van Dam. She had intended to shred the contract.

August 25, 2002 � Summerslam: (Among other matches) RAW�s Brock Lesnar defeated WWE Undisputed Heavyweight Champion The Rock to win the title. RAW�s Rob Van Dam defeats WWE Intercontinental Champion SmackDown�s Chris Benoit to win the title.

August 26, 2002 � RAW: WWE Intercontinental Champion Rob Van Dam defeats WWE Hardcore Champion Tommy Dreamer to retire the Hardcore title and retain the Intercontinental title. Triple H defeats The Undertaker to become the #1 contender to the WWE Undisputed Heavyweight title. However, SmackDown! G.M. Stephanie McMahon announces that Undisputed Champion Brock Lesnar and agent Paul Heyman have signed exclusive contracts with SmackDown!, which is Lesnar�s prerogative as champion.

September 2, 2002 � RAW: Eric Bischoff announces that because Triple H (who won a #1 contender�s match by defeating The Undertaker the previous week) will not have the opportunity to face Brock Lesnar, the title is no longer "undisputed." Bischoff presents Triple H with the former NWA-WCW World Heavyweight Championship belt and declares him the World Heavyweight Champion exclusive to RAW When rumors circulate that a RAW talent is defecting to SmackDown! to join a family member, Bischoff suspects Jeff Hardy is joining his brother Matt and has him set up to be attacked by the tag-team 3 Minute Warning (Jamal & Rosey). Hardy�s opponent, Crash Holly (who�s "brother" Bob Hardcore Holly competes on SmackDown!), reveals that he is the defector.

September 12, 2002 � SmackDown!: A highly publicized "commitment ceremony" between tag-team partners Billy Gunn and Chuck Palumbo is sabotaged by their former advisor Rico, 3 Minute Warning, and RAW G.M. Eric Bischoff.

September 16, 2002 � RAW: Rico defects to RAW to become the new advisor to 3 Minute Warning. SmackDown! G.M. Stephanie McMahon appears disguised as a member of a feminist organization I.O.W.- International Organization for Women, protesting Eric Bischoff�s gratuitous "H.L.A." (Hot Lesbian Action) segments. Billy Gunn and Chuck Palumbo appear and gain retribution for SmackDown!

A match is agreed upon for Unforgiven: Gunn & Palumbo vs. 3 Minute Warning. If Gunn & Palumbo win, Bischoff must kiss Stephanie McMahon�s ass; If 3 Minute Warning wins, Stephanie must perform "Hot Lesbian Action."

September 22, 2002 � Unforgiven Pay-Per-View: (Among other matches) RAW�s 3 Minute Warning defeat SmackDown�s Billy Gunn and Chuck Palumbo. The stipulation required Stephanie McMahon to perform "Hot Lesbian Action", although the "lesbian" who appeared was SmackDown! talent Rikishi in drag. Rikishi proceeded to give his signature "stink face" to RAW G.M. Eric Bischoff.

September 23, 2002 � RAW: Randy Orton and Hurricane Helms defect to RAW. Helms appears as Kane�s mystery partner and the duo promptly defeat World Tag-Team Champions Chris Jericho and Christian to win the titles.

September 20, 2002 � RAW: G.M. Eric Bischoff announces that the RAW main event for the No Mercy Pay-Per-View will absorb the WWE Intercontinental title will be absorbed into the World Heavyweight Title. The scheduled match is World Heavyweight Champion Triple H vs. WWE Intercontinental Champion Kane.

October 3, 2002 � SmackDown!: G.M. Stephanie McMahon announces that the SmackDown! brand will be creating it�s own WWE Tag-Team Titles. A tournament is scheduled with the final match scheduled for the No Mercy Pay-Per-View.

In the first (quarterfinal) round, Los Guerreros (Eddy Guerrero and Chavo Guerrero Jr.) defeat Rikishi and "The World�s Strongest Man" Mark Henry, and Reverend D-Von (Dudley) and Ron Simmons (Faarooq) defeat Billy Gunn and Chuck Palumbo.

October 10, 2002 � SmackDown!: Edge and Rey Mysterio Jr. defeat Brock Lesnar and Tajiri, and Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit defeat John Cena and Billy Kidman to complete the first (quarterfinal) round of the WWE Tag-Team Title Tournament.

October 17, 2002 � SmackDown!: In the Semi-Finals of the WWE Tag-Team Title Tournament, Edge and Rey Mysterio Jr. defeat Reverend D-Von and Ron Simmons, and Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit defeat Los Guerreros.

October 20, 2002 � No Mercy Pay-Per-View: Among other matches. . RAW: World Heavyweight Champion Triple H defeats WWE Intercontinental Champion Kane to retire the Intercontinental title and retain the World Heavyweight title. SmackDown!: Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit defeat Edge and Rey Mysterio Jr. in the Finals of the WWE Tag-Team Title Tournament.

October 21, 2002 � RAW: G.M. Eric Bischoff announces that he is trading The Big Show to SmackDown!

October 28, 2002 � RAW: Eric Bischoff declares his intention to sign former WCW talent Scott Steiner.

October 31, 2002 � SmackDown!: RAW G.M. Eric Bischoff appears in a Vince McMahon mask to taunt Stephanie McMahon and the two subsequently make out.

November 12, 2002 � WWE Super Tuesday (UPN Special): SmackDown!: Eddy Guerrero defeated Edge and Chris Benoit in a triple threat match ... Bikini Contest: Trish Stratus (RAW) vs. SmackDown�s Torrie Wilson (SmackDown!) went to a No-Contest after Nidia interfered... RAW: Triple H, Chris Jericho, Christian, and 3 Minute Warning defeated Kane, Booker T., Jeff Hardy, Rob Van Dam, and Bubba Ray Dudley.

November 17, 2002 � Survivor Series: D-Von Dudley comes to the aid of Bubba Ray Dudley and Spike Dudley in an apparent reunion. Scott Steiner appears.

December 16, 2002 � RAW: Scott Steiner debuts for the first time as a RAW superstar (after a long recruiting war) and challenges Triple H for the World Heavyweight Title

February 24, 2003 � RAW: The Rock defects to RAW, citing a favor from Vince McMahon in return for defeating Hollywood Hulk Hogan the previous night at the No Way Out Pay-Per-View.

March 31, 2003 � RAW: Former WCW talent Bill Goldberg debuts and challenges The Rock for the Backlash Pay-Per-View. Eric Bischoff fires Stone Cold Steve Austin for concealing an injury prior to his match against The Rock at the previous night�s WrestleMania XIX.

April 28, 2003 � RAW: WWE CEO Linda McMahon announces Stone Cold Steve Austin as the new "Co-General Manager" of RAW to counteract the ongoing misconduct and abuse of power by Eric Bischoff.

May 5, 2003 � RAW: Co-G.M. Steve Austin announces the return of the WWE Intercontinental title. The new champion will be crowned by winning a battle royal of former Intercontinental Champions at the Judgment Day Pay-Per-View.

May 12, 2003 � RAW: Co-G.M. Steve Austin adds Booker T. as a participant in the battle royal to crown a new WWE Intercontinental Champion at the Judgment Day Pay-Per-View

May 18, 2003 � Judgment Day: Among other matches. . RAW: Christian won the "battle royal" (11:55) to win the Intercontinental Title. Other participants were: Booker T., Val Venis (Chief Sean Morely), Chris Jericho, Kane, Goldust, Lance Storm, Rob Van Dam, and Test...

June 12, 2003 � SmackDown!: Sable discovers Stephanie McMahon�s plans to bring back the United States Heavyweight Title.

June 15, 2003 � RAW Bad Blood: 1^st RAW Pay-Per-View. The main event features World Heavyweight Champion Triple H defeating Kevin Nash in a "Hell In A Cell" match to retain the title. Mick Foley was the special guest referee.

June 19, 2003 � SmackDown!: Chris Benoit defeats Rhyno in the first (quarterfinal) round of the WWE United States Heavyweight Title Tournament.

Bradshaw appeared on SmackDown! to reunite with Faarooq in the A.P.A. (Acolyte[s] Protection Agency) and assist The Undertaker in fighting off the F.B.I. (Full Blooded Italians).

June 26, 2003 � SmackDown!: Matt Hardy defeats Rikishi in the first (quarterfinal) round of the WWE United States Heavyweight Title Tournament.

July 3, 2003 � SmackDown!: Billy Gunn defeats John Cena in the first (quarterfinal) round of the WWE United States Heavyweight Title Tournament.

July 10, 2003 � SmackDown!: Eddy Guerrero defeats The Ultimo Dragon in the first (quarterfinal) round of the WWE United States Heavyweight Title Tournament.

July 17, 2003 � SmackDown!: Chris Benoit defeats Matt Hardy and Eddy Guerrero defeats Billy Gunn in the Semi-Finals of the WWE United States Heavyweight Title Tournament.

July 21, 2003 � RAW: WWE CEO Linda McMahon appears to inform Co-G.M.s Eric Bischoff and Steve Austin that they cannot assault any RAW Superstars and remain a G.M. unless physically provoked.

July 27, 2003 � SmackDown Vengeance: 1^st SmackDown! Pay-Per-View. The main event features Kurt Angle defeating WWE Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar and The Big Show in a "No-Disqualification" Triple Threat match to win the title. Eddy Guerrero defeats Chris Benoit in the Finals of the WWE United States Heavyweight Title Tournament.

August 25, 2003 � RAW: Theodore R. Long introduces "The World�s Strongest Man" Mark Henry on RAW.

September 25, 2003 � SmackDown!: Stephanie McMahon names The Undertaker the #1 contender to the WWE Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar. Vince McMahon challenges her to a match at the next SmackDown Pay-Per-View, No Mercy.

October 2, 2003 � SmackDown!: Vince McMahon demands that Stephanie McMahon resign her position as G.M. of SmackDown! She refuses to either change the main event match or resign. Vince then amends the match against Stephanie McMahon at No Mercy to a "Father-Daughter I Quit" match. If Stephanie loses, then she must resign as General Manager as part of the stipulation.

October 9, 2003 � SmackDown!: WWE CEO Linda McMahon appears and deems it unfair that Vince McMahon has nothing on the line in the "Father-Daughter I Quit" match scheduled for No Mercy. Vince stipulates that if he loses, he must resign as WWE Chairman of the Board. Stephanie McMahon announces that since Sable is in Vince�s corner, Linda will be in hers.

October 19, 2003 � SmackDown! No Mercy: (Among other matches) Vince McMahon defeats Stephanie McMahon in a "Father-Daughter I Quit" Match when Linda McMahon throws in the towel. Stephanie McMahon resigns as SmackDown! General Manager as a result.

October 20, 2003 � RAW: Co-G.M. Eric Bischoff proposes an elimination match of five-on-five at Survivor Series. If Austin�s team wins, the physical provocation rule cited by Linda McMahon will be nullified. But if Team Bischoff wins, Austin must resign as Co-G.M.

After Austin accepts the proposal, Bischoff introduces his first two representatives, Chris Jericho and Scott Steiner. Later in the show, Booker T. is the first Superstar to join Team Austin.

October 23, 2003 � SmackDown!: Vince McMahon names Paul Heyman the new General Manager of SmackDown!

October 27, 2003 � RAW: During Chris Jericho�s "Highlight Reel" segment, it is discovered that Christian has joined Team Bischoff, while WWE Intercontinental Champion Rob Van Dam joins Team Austin.

A steel cage match for the Intercontinental Title is made between Van Dam and Jericho, in which Jericho wins the title. A title rematch is immediately held in which Van Dam regains it. Following the match, the team members run in, and it is also discovered that Mark Henry has joined Bischoff�s entourage and The Dudley Boys have sided with Austin.

October 30, 2003 � SmackDown!: Paul Heyman announces a five-on-five elimination match for Survivor Series, with the two opposing teams to be led by WWE Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle. Team Lesnar is introduced and consists of Lesnar, The Big Show, Show, a returning Nathan Jones, and Matt Morgan. Angle enlists the help of Chris Benoit, Bob "Hardcore" Holly, and the A.P.A.

November 3, 2003 � RAW: Shawn Michaels joins Team Austin and Randy Orton joins Team Bischoff to complete the Survivor Series roster.

November 6, 2003 � SmackDown!: A-Train joins Team Lesnar and Kurt Angle is told that Faarooq will not be cleared to wrestle for Survivor Series.

November 16, 2003 - Survivor Series: RAW Elimination Match: Team Bischoff (Scott Steiner, Christian, Chris Jericho, Mark Henry, and Randy Orton) defeated Team Austin (Booker T., Buh-Buh Ray Dudley, D-Von Dudley, Rob Van Dam, and Shawn Michaels) (27:27). Booker T. pinned Scott Steiner (7:28). Mark Henry pinned Booker T. (7:57). Rob Van Dam, Buh-Buh Ray Dudley, and D-Von Dudley pinned Mark Henry (10:03). Randy Orton pinned Rob Van Dam (12:06). Chris Jericho pinned D-Von Dudley (13:49). Christian pinned Buh-Buh Ray Dudley (16:53). Shawn Michaels pinned Christian (20:28). Shawn Michaels pinned Chris Jericho (23:58). Randy Orton pinned Shawn Michaels (27:27) to win the match. Sole Survivor: Randy Orton.

SmackDown! Elimination Match: Team Angle (Kurt Angle, John Cena, Chris Benoit, Bradshaw, and Hardcore Holly) defeated Team Lesnar (Brock Lesnar, The Big Show, Nathan Jones, Matt Morgan, and A-Train ) (13:17) in a "Survivor Series Elimination" match. Harcore Holly was eliminated and Disqualified for hitting the referee. Bradshaw pinned A-Train (0:27). The Big Show pinned Bradshaw (0:48). Kurt Angle pinned Matt Morgan (9:11). Kurt Angle defeated Nathan Jones (9:31) by Submission. Brock Lesnar pinned Kurt Angle (9:43). Chris Benoit defeated Brock Lesnar (11:43) by Submission. John Cena pinned The Big Show (13:17) to win the match. Survivors: John Cena and Chris Benoit...(

November 17, 2003 � RAW: Matt Hardy appears on RAW on Chris Jericho�s "Highlight Reel" after his SmackDown! contract expires. Eric Bischoff promises favors to the members of his victorious Survivor Series team.

December 1, 2003 � RAW: Mick Foley is named an "outside consultant" for the RAW brand, appoints himself CO-G.M., and starts a petition to bring back Steve Austin.

December 29, 2003 � RAW: Steve Austin returns as Co-G.M. of RAW, on his own terms.

January 5, 2004 � RAW: Mark Henry, cashing in on his Survivor Series favor from Eric Bischoff, names Theodore R. Long General Manager of RAW for the evening.

January 26, 2004 � RAW: Chris Benoit, who won the previous night�s Royal Rumble, returns to RAW to challenge World Heavyweight Champion Triple H.

March 14, 2004 � WrestleMania XX: Torrie Wilson and Sable (SmackDown!) defeated Jackie Gayda and Stacy Kiebler (RAW) in a "Playboy Evening Gown" match (2:41) when Torrie pinned Jackie...Bill Goldberg (RAW) defeated Brock Lesnar (SmackDown!). RAW Co-G.M. .Steve Austin was the special guest referee ... The Undertaker (SmackDown!) defeated Kane (RAW).

March 15, 2004 � RAW: Vince McMahon announces a lottery re-draft of the brand rosters.

March 22, 2004 � RAW: Paul Heyman quits after being selected in the lottery re-draft by Eric Bischoff.

March 23, 2004: Chuck Palumbo and A-Train are traded to RAW in exchange for Jackie Gayda and Rico, who are sent to SmackDown!

March 25, 2004 � SmackDown!: Kurt Angle is named SmackDown! General Manager to fill the vacancy created by Paul Heyman�s resignation. He announces that he has traded Triple H back to RAW for Booker T. and the Dudley Boys.

May 28, 2004 � SmackDown!: Paul Heyman returns to SmackDown!, critiquing and advising the Dudley Boys.

July 5, 2004 � RAW: Eugene Dinsmore is named the honorary General Manager of RAW for an evening.

July 22, 2004 � SmackDown!: Vince McMahon fires Kurt Angle as General Manager of SmackDown!

July 29, 2004 � SmackDown!: Vince McMahon names Theodore R. Long the new General Manager of SmackDown! Long becomes the first G.M. and the second man (to Vince McMahon) to have run both brands or shows.

August 26, 2004 � SmackDown!: Former RAW talent John Heidenreich debuts with Paul Heyman as his manager.

October 19, 2004 - RAW Taboo Tuesday Pay-Per-View: RAW presents the WWE's first fan-interactive PPV, in which fans could vote on the matches at WWE.com. Intercontinental Heavyweight Title Match: Shelton Benjamin pinned Chris Jericho (10:54) to win the title...Women's World Title Match (School Girls Outfit Battle Royal): Trish Stratus won a "School Girls Outfit Battle Royal" to retain the title (5:35). Other participants were: Stacy Keibler, Gail Kim, Molly Holly, Nidia, Victoria, and Jazz...Steel Chain Match: Gene Snitsky pinned Kane (14:18) in a "Steel Chain" match...Loser Gets Head Shaved, Becomes a Servant, or Wears a Dress Match: Eugene Dinsmore pinned Eric Bischoff (2:08) in a "Loser Gets Head Shaved, Becomes a Servant, or Wears a Dress" match. Fans voted for the "Loser Gets His Head Shaved"...World Tag Team Title Match: Edge and Chris Benoit defeated La Resistance (Rob Conway and Sylvian Grenier) (16:03) when Benoit made Conway submit to win the tag team titles...Lingerie Pillow Fight Match: Christy Hemme defeated Carmella Descanre (1:46) in a "Lingerie Pillow Fight" match...World Heavyweight Title Match: Triple H pinned Shawn Michaels (14:08) to retain the title...Steel Cage Match: Randy Orton pinned Ric Flair (10:35) in a "Steel Cage" match.

November 1, 2004 � RAW: SmackDown! talent Viscera serves as Christian�s �Problem Solver� for one evening, replacing Tyson Tomko.

October 28, 2004 � SmackDown!: A match of Rey Mysterio vs. Kurt Angle sees numerous run-ins by Eddie Guerrero, Rob Van Dam, Mark Jindrak, and Luther Reigns. General Manager Theodore Long announces a classic elimination 4-on-4 Survivor Series match (Angle, Jindrak, and Reigns vs. Guerrero, Mysterio, and Van Dam with a fourth member to be named to each team).

Spike Dudley approaches Kurt Angle about naming one of the Dudleys (Spike, Bubba Ray, or D-Von) to his team while The Big Show demands to join Guerrero�s team and is accepted.

Booker T. defeated Orlando Jordan to earn a match with WWE Heavyweight Champion John Bradshaw Layfield at Survivor Series. The Undertaker also signed a contract to face John Heidenreich.

November 1, 2004 � RAW: General Manager Eric Bischoff announces an elimination match for Survivor Series of: Triple H, Batista, Edge, and Gene Snitsky vs. Randy Orton, Chris Benoit, Chris Jericho, and Maven. The winning team�s members will each get a night to run RAW over the course of the next month.

Also announced are: Women�s Champion Trish Stratus vs. Lita and Intercontinental Champion Shelton Benjamin vs. Christian.

November 4, 2004 � SmackDown!: The Big Show defeats the Dudley Boys in a tables match. Carlito Carribean Cool is named the fourth member of Kurt Angle�s Survivor Series team. Theodore Long informs Eddie Guerrero that Rey Mysterio Jr. will be off his team to compete in a fatal four-way match for the WWE Cruiserweight Title, with Champion Spike Dudley, Chavo Guerrero Jr., and Billy Kidman.

November 11, 2004 � SmackDown!: Eddie Guerrero replaces Rey Mysterio Jr. with the returning John Cena.

November 14, 2004 � Survivor Series Pay-Per View: Sunday Night Heat Match (RAW Match): World Tag Team Champions, La Resistance (Sylvian Grenier and Rob Conway), defeated Rosey and Hurricane Helms when Conway pinned Helms...
(SmackDown! Match) World Cruiserweight Title Match (Four-Way Match): Spike Dudley defeated Rey Misterio, Billy Kidman, and Chavo Guerrero (9:02) when Spike Dudley pinned Guerrero in a "Four-Way" match to retain the title...(RAW Match) Intercontinental Title Match: Shelton Benjamin pinned Christian (13:22) to retain the title...(SmackDown! Match) Classic Survivor Series Match: Eddie Guerrero, Rob Van Dam, John Cena, and The Big Show defeated Kurt Angle, Carlito Carribean Cool, Mark Jindrak, and Luther Reigns (12:18) in a "Classic Survivor Series" match. Carlito Carribean Cool left the match before the bell. Kurt Angle pinned Rob Van Dam. Eddie Guerrero pinned Mark Jindrak. The Big Show pinned Luther Reigns. The Big Show pinned Kurt Angle. Sole Survivors: Eddie Guerrero, The Big Show, and John Cena...SmackDown! Match: The Undertaker pinned John Heidenreich (15:43)...(RAW Match) Women's World Title Match: Trish Stratus defeated Lita (1:15) by Disqualification to retain the title...SmackDown! World Heavyweight Title Match: John Bradshaw Layfield pinned Booker T. (14:48) to retain the title...(RAW Match) Classic Survivor Series Match: Chris Benoit, Chris Jericho, Maven, and Randy Orton defeated Triple H, Batista, Edge, and Gene Snitsky (24:30) in a "Classic Survivor Series" match. Edge pinned Chris Benoit. Chris Jericho pinned Batista. Gene Snitsky was Disqualified. Triple H pinned Maven. Edge pinned Chris Jericho. Randy Orton pinned Edge. Randy Orton pinned Triple H. Sole Survivor: Randy Orton.

November 15, 2004 � RAW: As a result of his team�s win at Survivor Series, Maven serves as General Manager for an evening.

November 18, 2004 - SmackDown!: Former RAW $250,000 Diva Search Contestant Amy Weber debuts as WWE Champion John Bradshaw Layfield's image consultant. Former RAW $250,000 Diva Search Contestant Michelle McCool debuts as Rob Van Dam's personal trainer.

November 23, 2004 - RAW: As a result of his team�s win at Survivor Series, Chris Benoit serves as General Manager for an evening. Randy Orton announces that he will serve as G.M. for the November 30th show. He challenges Triple H to a match to lift a stipulation preventing a title match, which Triple H declines. Instead, Orton announces a battle royal for the (RAW) World Heavyweight Title.

November 25, 2004 � SmackDown! � Former RAW $250,000 Diva Search Contestant Joy Giovanni appears on SmackDown!�s Thanksgiving party.

November 29, 2004 � RAW: As a result of his team�s win at Survivor Series, Randy Orton serves as General Manager for an evening. Vince McMahon declares that the winner of his scheduled battle royal will not become the World Heavyweight Champion, but instead earn a title shot against Triple H. The battle royal results in a �draw� between Chris Benoit and Edge, but Orton declares a tiple threat match between Triple H, Edge, and Chris Benoit. As Edge taps out to Benoit�s Crippler Crossface submission hold, Benoit�s shoulders are also pinned to the mat resulting in controversy as to who won the match, and possibly the title. Orton introduces RAW Lingerie Fashion Show, featuring Maria Kanellis, Stacy Kiebler, Christy Hemme, and new divas Candace and Melina. Chris Jericho, who will serve as G.M. for the December 6th show, announces a WWE Women�s Title match between Trish Stratus and Lita.

December 6, 2004 � RAW: As a result of his team�s win at Survivor Series, Randy Orton serves as General Manager for an evening. He announces that he has left the title controversy from the previous week to the discretion of WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. McMahon, in turn, vacates the World Heavyweight Title, and leaves the next decision up to returning RAW G.M. Eric Bischoff. In one of Jericho�s sanctioned matches, Lita defeats WWE Women�s Champion Trish Stratus to win the title.

December 13, 2004 � RAW: Eric Bischoff returns as General Manager and announces that a new World Heavyweight Champion � for the vacant title � will be crowned at the New Year�s Revolution on January 9th, 2005. The champion will be the winner of an Elimination Chamber match featuring Triple H, Chris Benoit, Edge, Chris Jericho, Batista, and Randy Orton.

December 27, 2004 � RAW: Shawn Michaels is announced as the special guest referee for the Elimination Chamber main event at New Year�s Revolution.

January 6, 2005 - SmackDown!: Carlito Carribean Cool begins a petition to have G.M. Theodore Long removed.

January 9, 2005 - RAW New Year�s Revolution Pay-Per-View: Triple H defeats Chris Jericho, Chris Benoit, Edge, Randy Orton, and Batista (34:58) in an "Elimination Chamber" match to win the vacant World Heavyweight Title. Chris Jericho pinned Edge (19:20). Batista pinned Chris Benoit (26:15). Batista pinned Chris Jericho (27:30). Randy Orton pinned Batista (32:30). Triple H pinned Randy Orton (34:58). Shawn Michaels was the special guest referee.

January 20, 2005 - SmackDown!: John Heidenreich signs Carlito Carribean Cool�s petition.

January 30, 2005 - Royal Rumble:The Royal Rumble match results in a draw between RAW's Batista and SmackDown!'s John Cena. WWE Owner Vince McMahon orders the match re-started, and Batista subsequently wins, becoming eligible to challenge for either brand's version of the World title.

January 31, 2005 � RAW: WWE Champion JBL appears on the Titan Tron screen during an in-ring promo by Evolution (Triple H, Ric Flair, and Batista). Later in the show, Triple H speaks to Ric Flair in the locker room about the possibility of Batista winning the WWE (SmackDown) title, and Evolution expanding to rule both brands.

February 3, 2005 � SmackDown!: SmackDown! GM Theodore Long announces an eight-man tournament to determine a contender to WWE Champion John Bradshaw Layfield. JBL, scheduled to face The Big Show at No Way Out on February 20th, and the champion would advance to WrestleMania 21 to face the tournament winner. If Royal Rumble winner Batista decided to challenge for the title, the SmackDown! main event at WrestleMania would become a Triple Threat match between the champion, the tournament winner, and Batista. In tournament action, The Undertaker vs. Renee Dupree results in a Double Countout, resulting in a bye for the winner between Kurt Angle and Rey Mysterio. Booker T. defeats Eddie Guerrero to advance. Carlito Carribean Cool informs G.M. Theodore Long that he has sent in his petition in to the WWE Board of Directors.

February 10, 2005 - SmackDown!: In tournament action, Kurt Angle defeats Rey Mysterio to advance. United States Champion John Cena defeats Orlando Jordan to advance. WWE CEO Linda McMahon announces the decision was made to retain Theodore Long as G.M.

February 14, 2005 � RAW: Triple H and Ric Flair inform Batista that JBL is on his way to RAW. Batista is nearly run over by JBL�s longhorn limo.

February 17, 2005 - SmackDown!: Batista appears in the parking lot during an in-ring promo by JBL�s Cabinet, and proceeds to smash in the windows of JBL�s longhorn limo. While the Cabinet races to the parking lot, Batista attacks JBL in the ring and stares down with The Big Show. In tournament action, United States Champion John Cena defeats Booker T. to advance.

February 20, 2004 � SmackDown! No Way Out Pay-Per-View: (Among other matches) Number One Contender Tournament Final Match: United States Champion, John Cena, pinned Kurt Angle (19:14) to earn a title shot at WrestleMania 21...World Heavyweight Title Match (Barb Wire Steel Cage Match): John Bradshaw Leyfield defeated The Big Show (14:50) in a "Barb Wire Steel Cage" match to retain the title.

February 21, 2005 � RAW: Royal Rumble winner Batista decides to remain with RAW and challenge Triple H at WrestleMania 21 for the World Heavyweight Title, and attacks Triple H and Ric Flair. Shawn Michaels confronts SmackDown! G.M. Theodore Long and challenges SmackDown! Superstar Kurt Angle for WrestleMania 21.

February 24, 2005 - SmackDown!: WWE CEO Linda McMahon announces that the decision has been made to retain Theodore Long as G.M.

February 28, 2005 � RAW: Kurt Angle assaults Shawn Michaels after his victory over Edge in the main event and accepts his WrestleMania 21 challenge.

March 4, 2005 - SmackDown!: A disguised Shawn Michaels retaliates against Kurt Angle during an interview.

March 7, 2005 � RAW: Randy Orton issues a challenge to his next legend, SmackDown!�s Undertaker for WrestleMania 21 vowing to end his undefeated streak. Kurt Angle appears on the Titan Tron and cuts a promo in response to Shawn Michaels, who is in the ring.

March 10, 2005 - SmackDown!: G.M. Theodore Long orders Carlito Carribean Cool to get an answer from The Undertaker regarding Randy Orton�s challenge from RAW, or lose his job. After unsuccessful attempts to locate The Undertaker, Cool calls him out to the ring, and receives a tombstone piledriver after the challenge is accepted. Kurt Angle announces a match against Shawn Michaels� friend and former Rockers tag-team partner, Marty Jannetty, for the following week.

March 14, 2005 � RAW: Randy Orton appears as a guest on Chris Jericho�s �Highlight Reel� interview segment, along with another legend, Jake �the Snake� Roberts. After a verbal debate regarding Orton�s challenge to the Undertaker for WrestleMania 21, Roberts attempts to retrieve his serpent and is attacked by Orton. A contract signing is scheduled for the next SmackDown!. Shawn Michaels invites Marty Jannetty to RAW, and arranges a match to �warm up� for Kurt Angle on the next SmackDown!, The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty) vs. La Resistance (Rob Conway & Sylvain Grenier), won by The Rockers.

March 17, 2005 - SmackDown!: Randy Orton slaps The Undertaker at their scheduled contract signing. Kurt Angle defeats Marty Jannetty.

March 24 2005 - SmackDown!: Kurt Angle appears with, and subsequently attacks former Shawn Michaels manager Sensational Sherri Martel. Angle also mocks Michaels� entrance routine.

March 28, 2005 � RAW: A video is played during a Randy Orton promo showcasing each of The Undertaker�s 12 WrestleMania victories, with an ominous message for Orton. Kane also speaks to Orton backstage regarding The Undertaker�s WrestleMania performances and Orton�s apparent fear. Kurt Angle assaults Shawn Michaels following his win over Muhammad Hasasan.

April 3, 2005 - WrestleMania XXI: 30-Man "SmackDown! vs. RAW" Battle Royal (DVD Only): Booker T. won the "30-Man SmacKDown! vs. RAW Battle Royal" match...SmackDown! Match: Rey Misterio pinned Eddie Guerrero (12:00)...(RAW) Money in the Bank (Ladder) Match: Edge defeated Shelton Benjamin, Edge, Christian, Chris Jericho, and Kane (15:10) in a "Money in the Bank Ladder" match...RAW vs. SmackDown! Match: The Undertaker (SmackDown!) pinned Randy Orton (RAW) (14:06)...RAW Women's World Title Match: Trish Stratus pinned Christy Hemme (4:40) to retain the title...RAW vs. SmackDown! Match: Kurt Angle (SmackDown!) defeated Shawn Michaels (RAW) (27:16) by submission...(SmackDown!) Sumo Wrestling Match: Akebono defeated The Big Show (3:00) in a "Sumo" match...SmackDown! World Heavyweight Title Match: John Cena pinned John Bradshaw Leyfield (11:18) to win the title...RAW World Heavyweight Title Match: Batista pinned Triple H (21:32) to win the title.

April 18, 2005 � RAW: Vince McMahon makes an appearance and announces another lottery re-draft in approximately 1 month.

May 16, 2005 � RAW: Vince McMahon announces that all Superstars are eligible for the draft lottery, regardless of injury. He goes on to explain that the draft will take place over a period of one month. The details (later revealed on WWE.com) are as follows:

For this historic 2005 Draft, RAW and SmackDown! will each get five draft picks.

The picks will all be drawn at random. RAW will draw from the SmackDown! roster. SmackDown! will draw from the RAW roster.

All RAW & SmackDown! Superstars can be drafted. Champions, Divas, announcers, general managers. Everyone is eligible to be drafted!

One pick a week per show, until the final week when each show will get two picks.

The first RAW pick will be revealed on June 6th.
The first SmackDown! pick will be revealed on June 9th.

The second RAW pick will be revealed on June 13th.
The second SmackDown! pick will be revealed on June 16th.

The third RAW pick will be revealed on June 20th.
The third SmackDown! pick will be revealed on June 23rd.

The fourth and fifth RAW pick will be revealed on June 27th.
The fourth and fifth SmackDown! pick will be revealed on June 30th.

May 26, 2005 - SmackDown!: G.M. Theodore Long schedules a battle royal, the winner of which will get the choice of a SmackDown! opponent for the following week, regardless of whether he is drafted by RAW. Kurt Angle wins the match, and selects Sharmell Sullivan (wife of Booker T.) as his opponent.

June 2, 2005 - SmackDown!: G.M. Theodore Long changes Kurt Angle's match to a handicap match against Booker T. and Sharmell Sullivan, which Angle wins by pinning Sullivan.

June 6, 2005 - RAW