WWE Smackdown TV Report
December 30, 2011
Taped 12/27 in Indianapolis, Ind.
Aired on Syfy
Report by James Caldwell, PWTorch assistant editor

PWTorch columnist Greg Parks is on New Year's assignment - check back for his report late tonight. In the meantime, check out our Weekly Chat on the PWTorch.com main listing right now!

The final WWE Smackdown of 2011 opened with a video package focusing on the Barrett Barrage getting to Randy Orton as of late. Tonight, it's Falls Count Anywhere.

Announcers: Michael Cole's voice was heard over a graphic plugging Barrett vs. Orton tonight before they went to the Green Day Smackdown video intro.

Arena: Pyro shot off inside the Fieldhouse before Booker T's music played to bring out Booker dressed to commentate. Cole accused him of grandstanding after beating Cody Rhodes on Monday's Raw. Cole said Booker needs to make up his mind on whether he wants to be a *wrestler* or an announcer.

In the ring, Booker thanked WWE and the fans for a great 2011. He reminisced about the Royal Rumble in January, then noted he tried to take the next step by becoming an announcer, only to be annoyed by Cole and attacked by Cody Rhodes. Booker said tonight is the final Smackdown of 2011, so sit back and enjoy.

Suddenly, Rhodes's music interrupted to bring out the IC champion dressed to wrestle. Rhodes opened with some anti-Indy comments to draw cheap heat. Rhodes then recapped his 2011: overcame a "career-threatening" injury, overcame Rey Mysterio, and brought back honor to the IC Title. Rhodes also claimed to have made Booker relevant again, which Booker took offense to. Rhodes, now inches away from Booker, extended his hand for a truce. Booker accepted the handshake and they pulled in closer.

Booker tried to leave the ring, but Rhodes whispered that it's all over for Booker. Booker came back to face Rhodes, who told him he's a nostalgia act in the ring and buffoon of an announcer. He called him a joke. Rhodes backed away as Booker stared a hole through him. Rhodes told Booker to do everyone a favor by going home. "You go home, Cody!" a random fan could be heard saying in the background.

Suddenly, Goldust's music played to bring out "Dustin," as Michael Cole called him. Cole recapped Dustin made a name for himself as Goldust. Dustin, dressed in a suit sans facepaint, approached Cody in the ring. He said he loves his brother, but Cody is going about this the wrong way. Dustin said when he was down and out, Booker inspired him. When he thought it was all over, Booker brought him back to life. After referencing the Goldust & Booker tandem, Dustin told Cody to get a grip. Cody laughed and said just when he thought this couldn't be any more of a joke, his brother came along. Cody said he knows he restored the Rhodes family name after Dustin threw up all over it. He then noted Dustin fell into the same demons after Booker left the picture.

Booker stepped up to Cody and told him Dustin is more of a man than Cody ever will be. Booker noted they each have one win, so they should settle the issue. This time, for the IC Title. Cody told Booker to be careful for what he wishes for because he'll agree to one more match...next week. Cody told Booker he'll send him into obscurity with Dustin. Booker responded with a vow to become new IC champion. Booker signed off with his catch phrase, then Cole plugged next week's IC Title match. Cole claimed Booker will become irrelevant next week.

Booker left the ring to join the announcers, leaving the Rhodes brothers in the ring. Dustin told Cody to calm down, then Cody suddenly cheap-shotted Dustin in the gut before delivering the Disaster Kick. Cody quickly scampered out of the ring, then Booker checked on Dustin in the ring. After a replay of Cody's attack, they cut back to a shot of Booker continuing to administer aid to Dustin. Seeds planted for Cody vs. Dustin at WM28?

Still to come tonight: Big Show & World Hvt. champion Daniel Bryan vs. David Otunga & Mark Henry.

[Commercial Break]

In-ring: Ted DiBiase came out first for the opening match of the show. They went back to two weeks ago to show DiBiase beating Heath Slater before Jinder Mahal sneak-attacked him. On cue, Mahal's music played (to groans in the crowd) to bring out DiBiase's opponent. Before the bell sounded, they cut to an inset promo from Mahal dogging New Year's Resolutions and Americans.

1 -- TED DIBIASE vs. JINDER MAHAL

Mahal took the early advantage while Cole bickered with Josh Mathews and Booker T on commentary. DiBiase came back with a sit-out slam for a nearfall as Booker vowed to give Rhodes a whooping next week. DiBiase then injured his knee, allowing Mahal to slap on the Camel Clutch. Cole called the move a "throwback to the past," then DiBiase tapped out. Lilian Garcia announced the verdict as Mathews noted Mahal ended 2011 on a high note. Booker said Mahal plans to make a big splash in 2012.

WINNER: Mahal via submission at 2:54. It would only be fitting for 2011 to end with yet another Even Steven result between these two.

Backstage: Teddy Long was on the phone telling someone about his big New Year's party. The saxophone music interrupted to bring in Maxine, who tried to work on Long's chin with a feather. The music stopped when Drew McIntyre walked in. Long noted he signed Mac back to Smackdown and he's all for forgiving their past issues. Of course, he didn't realize how much money Mac was making when he moved to Raw, where his career tailspinned. Long said he can't have a big salary on his brand with no results. So, when Mac faces Ezekiel Jackson tonight, he has to win, or else he'll think about firing him. Mac said no one in WWE has more passion than him and he said he's the type of guy who can make anyone bow for mercy. Just like he did to Long. He told Long to watch what he does tonight before confidently slapping him on the back.

[Commercial Break]

In-ring: Alicia Fox's music played to bring out Fox and Kaitlyn for a Divas tag match. Natalya's music then brought out Natalya and Tamina, with Natalya seeking revenge on A. Fox.

2 -- ALICIA FOX & KAITLYN vs. NATALYA & TAMINA

Natalya quickly took control of the action on Kaitlyn. Suddenly, Fox tagged in and scored a quick pin on Natalya, continuing Natalya's string of losses. Post-match: The faces escaped, then Tamina turned on Natalya with a strike and Superfly fist drop.

WINNERS: Fox & Kaitlyn at 1:35. So, does this mean JTG loses his heel manager if Tamina is turning face? Big questions to be answered here.

Announcers: They quickly moved on to hyping Orton vs. Barrett tonight after re-visiting their feud at Survivor Series.

[Commercial Break]

This Monday: It's a brand new year of Raw. Suddenly, the generic hype video cut out to a collection of 1/2/12 vignettes. There was no plug for Punk vs. Ziggler for the WWE Title.

Backstage: Daniel Bryan was talking to A.J. about how he saved Big Show from Mark Henry on Raw, then Big Show interrupted. A.J. told Bryan he'd see him later tonight. Show then tried to find the words to explain to Bryan that he doesn't need to be rescued. Bryan ignored Show's attempt to explain his feelings and talked up their tag match tonight. Suddenly, Teddy Long interrupted and noted the tag match has been canceled. Instead, David Otunga wants a singles re-match with Show. And, Mark Henry will be in Otunga's corner. Bryan told Show perhaps he does need help before wishing him good luck. Show tried to force a smile, selling frustration with Bryan not understanding him.

[Commercial Break]

In-ring: Kroger sponsored Justin Gabriel's ring entrance for the next match. Gabriel did some exercises on the way to the ring before Hunico's music played to bring out Hunico and his new heavy, Comacho, on their low-rider bike. Mathews introduced an inset promo from the two men vowing to take over WWE in 2012.

3 -- JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HUNICO (w/Comacho)

Cole, of all people, broke down the history of the low-rider bike as Gabriel and Hunico exchanged control early on. Cole defended his ability to speak on the subject by noting he lives in McAllen, Texas, which is near the Mexican border. About a minute in, Gabriel tried a top-rope move, but Hunico countered with a flying armdrag. Hunico followed with a top-rope splash and it was good for the win. Post-match, Hunico and Comacho delivered an impressive double-team combo on poor Gabriel. Cole called it a sign of things to come.

WINNER: Hunico at 1:43. WWE is really filling time this week while trying to establish some credibility for lower-card heels.

Video: The psychedelic WWE Network plug.

[Commercial Break]

In-ring: Big Show's music played back from break to bring out Show in his new camo giant suit. As Show made his way into the ring, they cut to a replay from last week when Show KO'ed David Otunga. Otunga then came out sporting a boo-boo face with his hands behind his back. Show sarcastically clapped him up as Otunga shook his head toward Show. In the ring, Otunga called for Henry's music to bring out the former World champ at the top of the hour.

[Second Hour]

4 -- BIG SHOW vs. DAVID OTUNGA (w/Mark Henry)

Show easily discarded Otunga to the ring, prompting Henry to give Otunga a pep talk about getting the job done. Meanwhile, Booker suggested he would be bringing his big brother (Stevie Ray) to Smackdown next week for the IC Title match. Otunga regrouped, re-entered the ring, and ate a shoulder block from Show. Show then took a look at Henry and delivered a big corner splash to Otunga. Henry inched toward the ring, which distracted Show enough for Otunga to chop block him.

Otunga delivered rapid-fire offense, then Daniel Bryan came to ringside through the crowd and blasted Henry with a belt shot. Bryan told Henry to come chase him, then Henry hobbled up the rampway toward Bryan, removing Otunga's back-up. Meanwhile, in the ring, Show palmed Otunga's head before delivering the KO Punch. One, two, three, and it's over for Otunga. Cole called Bryan's conduct unacceptable for the World champion. Show then left the ring in a celebratory mood.

WINNER: Show at 3:25. One of those "feel good" moments on a Smackdown episode without a PPV to hype or a sense of urgency.

Announcers: Cole recapped the Orton-Barrett feud, going back to TLC two weeks ago when Orton took Barrett through a table for victory. Still to come tonight: Orton vs. Barrett Falls Count Anywhere.

[Commercial Break]

Raw video plug: C.M. Punk was distracted by John Laurinaitis on Monday, which set up Punk vs. Dolph Ziggler for the WWE Title next week. This Monday: Punk vs. Ziggler for the title.

In-ring: Ezekiel Jackson's music played to bring out Big Zeke, now with hair. Drew McIntyre received his full, elaborate entrance as the announcers noted Mac needs to get on track because of his big contract or else he'll be gone.

5 -- DREW MCINTYRE vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Booker said perhaps the competition was too tough for McIntyre on Raw and now he can catch his breath on Smackdown. Cole said Mac is making a ton of money and he needs to show that he deserves the money and spot on Friday nights. Cole then referenced Vince McMahon's endorsement of McIntyre a few years ago. Cole added a comical line about McMahon "being the man who invented the industry." In the ring, Mac and Zeke went back and forth battling for control as Booker tried to relate the match to the principles of the wrestling business.

Mac almost got himself DQ'ed, then Zeke teased a torture rack, but Mac escaped. Mac followed with a roll-up and tried to put his feet on the ropes, but the ref saw it. The ref and Mac argued, then Zeke rolled up Mac and hooked the tights, which the ref did not see. Zeke picks up the win. Booker said that's something he's never seen Zeke do, but "that's what it's all about" in WWE. Afterward, McIntyre sold frustration over the loss. No sign of Teddy Long to address Mac's status.

WINNER: Jackson at 3:53. This announcing mess in WWE is a Top 5 story of the year, not just because of the lack of quality, but its negative affect on business without a credible voice guiding the ship.

Backstage: Sheamus was shown walking down the hallway with a big grin. He'll do something next.

[Commercial Break]

Backstage: McIntyre screamed at Teddy Long that the referee is biased. Long told Mac he can't stand losers, especially losers that make excuses. Mac caught his breath, then stormed out of Long's office without any words.

In-ring: Sheamus's music played as Mathews talked up Sheamus's 2011 campaign. He said Sheamus wants to have an even bigger 2012. In the ring, Sheamus asked Indy what's cracking. He said everyone is talking about the end of 2011, but he wants to focus on the future. Sheamus referenced the Royal Rumble and vowed to eliminate 29 other fellas to advance to WrestleMania. Sheamus said he doesn't care what number he draws because he will win the Rumble.

Hornswoggle's music interrupted and Cole said they should drop Swoggle on his head in Times Square. Sheamus noted Swoggle eliminated him from the Christmas battle royal last month. Swoggle nodded approvingly when Sheamus asked him if he's going to enter the Rumble. Sheamus said just because Bryan beat Big Show doesn't mean miracles happen every day. Hornswoggle then declared his victory by repeating his name over and over. Sheamus told a story about his uncle before teasing Swoggle that he'll kick his arse in the Rumble. Sheamus pretended to be upset, then shook Swoggle's hand.

Suddenly, Heath Slater interrupted. Cole said he never thought he would be happy to see this guy. Slater noted to Sheamus that he is the #1 redhead on Smackdown. Sheamus just laughed. Slater then heeled on Swoggle and noted Sheamus let Swoggle win the Christmas battle royal. Now in the ring, Slater told Swoggle that he's not that nice. Sheamus, not taking Slater's threat seriously, changed the subject to music. They sang "Don't Stop Believing" before Sheamus got serious and said he sees Slater as an R-Kelly type of guy. Ya know, "I Believe I Can Fly." Sheamus then "flew" Slater over the top rope for a battle royal-style elimination. Sheamus's music played and Sheamus celebrated as the announcers tried to find the words for the segment. Booker sang before Cole plugged Orton-Barrett still to come tonight.

[Commercial Break]

6 -- SHEAMUS vs. HEATH SLATER

They returned from break with the match already in progress, per a decision by Teddy Long during the commercial. Sheamus blasted Slater with a back elbow and there was a sudden wave of noise piped in. Sheamus then tossed Slater over the top rope again, but Slater landed on his feet. Slater taunted Sheamus, who merely responded with ten straight forearm blows to the chest. Sheamus lost control and the crowd began rallying behind Sheamus, who absorbed an attack to the mid-section.

Sheamus got that look in his eyes and made a comeback with hard blows and strikes. The crowd got fired up as Sheamus climbed up top for a shoulder tackle. Sheamus then called for the end and delivered the Brogue Kick center-ring. Sheamus with the cover for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 4:50 of what aired. A fine, effective squash to start building up Sheamus as a "favorite" to win the Rumble from the Smackdown side.

Backstage: Daniel Bryan was talking to Teddy Long, then Big Show walked in. Show said Bryan is starting to annoy him claiming to be a "good luck charm." Show sold frustration with Bryan, who sold that he didn't understand Show's complaints. Long said Raw has a big title match on Monday, so he needs to compete by having a title match next week on Smackdown. Long booked Bryan vs. Show for the title, which drew laughter and applause from Show. Bryan waited out Show's hearty laugh before noting that no matter what happens, at least his reign lasted longer than Show's 45 seconds. Show was not happy anymore. Bryan, playing a Dennis the Menace type character, then walked off.

Up next: Orton vs. Barrett FCA match to close out 2011.

[Commercial Break]

Announcers: Back from break, Cole plugged Punk-Ziggler for the WWE Title on Monday's Raw. Booker then plugged his IC Title challenge against Cody Rhodes next week on Smackdown. Mathews added a plug for the "improbable champion" Daniel Bryan defending the World Title against Daniel Bryan.

In-ring: Randy Orton made his first appearance of the show coming to the ring for the main event. Wade Barrett then slowly made his way to the ring to face Orton.

7 -- RANDY ORTON vs. WADE BARRETT -- Falls Count Anywhere match

Orton delivered early offense before they took the match to the outside. Orton and Barrett gingerly exchanged offense to protect Orton. Orton scored a nearfall on the floor before pacing the ringside area. The two men then sold the effects of the brawl as the show went to break.

[Commercial Break]

Back from break, the action was in the ring, where Barrett had control. On the floor, Barrett scored a nearfall before ramming Orton back-first into the ring apron. The "magician" slammed the apron with his hand to make noise as the camera cut to another angle so as not to reveal Barrett protecting Orton's back. Back in the ring, Barrett delivered a knee to the gut that cut off a teased comeback. Barrett then came off the second rope with a flying elbow drop for a two count.

Four minutes before the top of the hour, Orton dumped Barrett to the outside and the fight moved over the guardrail to the front row. The fight then moved to the lower portion of the arena, then into the locker room area. The ref was bumped during the melee, so no ref to administer a three count in the hallway. Orton and Barrett exchanged control brawling all over the place. Suddenly, an elevator opened up and Orton cleared everyone out of the elevator to continue the fight with Barrett. WWE cut to a weird black & white security camera shot of the two men brawling inside the elevator.

Orton and Barrett arrived at the next floor and fought to the office area, as Cole described it. They went through a door marked "Stairs" and the cameraman caught up with Barrett staring down at a flight of stairs. At the bottom of the 15 flights was Randy Orton in a state of disarray. Cole and Booker exchanged exclamations before Barrett was shown running away. The camera zoomed in on Orton selling various injuries in a contorted state. The show faded to the next Syfy program.

WINNER: No Decision when the show ended at 13:29. This was a very careful "match" to protect Orton. We'll see where it leads to with Orton's pre-existing injury not as serious as originally believed, according to WWE.

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