On September 1, 2005, WWE’s Friday Night Smackdown aired from Jacksonville, Florida, featuring a highly anticipated match between Rey Mysterio and Randy Orton. The event, showcasing intense rivalries and dramatic moments, captured viewers’ attention as the two superstars squared off amid escalating tension. The focus keyword Rey Mysterio vs Randy Orton is central to this memorable episode, which also included several notable bouts and storylines.
Opening Matches and Key Developments
Michael Cole and Tazz opened the show with a brief rundown of the upcoming matches and acknowledged the ongoing struggles in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, extending thoughts and prayers to those affected. The night kicked off with Heidenreich wrestling Mercury, with Heidenreich securing a win after a decisive sitout powerbomb, despite a chaotic post-match interference from MNM. The commentary hinted at a significant title match to come between MNM and LOD.
Jillian Hall guaranteed that MNM would capture the tag team championships next week, supported by Palmer Canyon’s enthusiasm for the evolving TV landscape. However, tensions were high as Randy Orton, introduced by his father Bob Orton, delivered a sharp promo focusing on his reputation as the “legend killer,” a title earned by defeating the iconic Undertaker. Orton then set his sights on Rey Mysterio, promising to dim the masked wrestler’s legacy.
Mid-Show Matches Build Momentum
Chris Benoit quickly dispatched Orlando Jordan in just over twenty seconds with a Crossface submission, showcasing Benoit’s technical prowess and dominance. Benoit’s humorous remark about using the restroom within the same timeframe lightened the mood, contrasting the otherwise intense environment.
Stacy Keibler and Christy Hemme’s match was briefly interrupted by Sylvain, who claimed superiority, only for Hardcore Holly to step in, declaring he, like all men in attendance, eagerly awaited the match between the two women. Their confrontation set the stage for future house show events.
The program also featured an awkward but amusing moment as Simon Dean introduced his “Simon System,” an energy drink he claimed would boost strength and aggression. Batista accepted the challenge, feigning enthusiasm, only to overpower Dean swiftly. Batista’s dominant performance ended with his signature Batista Bomb, solidifying his position on the card.
Tag Team and Singles Action Adds Variety
The tag team match involving William Regal and Paul Burchill versus Scotty 2 Hotty and Funaki ended with Burchill making Scotty submit. Burchill’s solid in-ring debut impressed commentators, demonstrating the British wrestler’s potential to make a significant impact in WWE. This match provided a technical contrast to the day’s more brawling-oriented contests.
A backstage segment spotlighted Eddie Guerrero in a cage promo, revealing his deep frustration and emotional turmoil over past missed opportunities and personal loss. His confession exposed the psychological depths of his rivalry with Rey Mysterio, framing their upcoming encounters as deeply personal struggles beyond mere competition.
Rey Mysterio vs. Randy Orton: A Dramatic and Controversial Finale
The main event between Randy Orton and Rey Mysterio delivered nearly 18 minutes of intense wrestling, drama, and back-and-forth action. Orton began the match with dominant aggression and frequently checked in with his father Bob for validation. Despite Orton’s early control, Mysterio showcased his agility and resilience through well-executed moves like a flying head scissors and the crowd-favorite 619.
Both competitors exchanged momentum shifts, including a moment where Orton slipped outside the ring following a boot to the face from Mysterio. After landing the 619, Mysterio attempted to capitalize with his signature move, Drop the Dime, but the match took a controversial turn when Bob Orton distracted the referee while Randy Orton delivered a low blow to Mysterio in mid-air. Orton followed up with a top rope RKO, securing a contentious victory.
The intense match earned a star rating of three and one-quarter stars, signaling strong in-ring action and storytelling despite the controversial finish. Following the bout, Michael Cole reinforced excitement for the upcoming debut of Friday Night Smackdown on its new broadcast night.
The Night’s Broader Impact on WWE Programming
This episode illustrated WWE’s blend of athletic competition and narrative drama, using complex character arcs and emotional intensity to engage viewers. The tension-filled Rey Mysterio vs Randy Orton clash was a pivotal moment within the broader storyline arcs involving legends and rising stars alike. Randy Orton’s portrayal as a ruthless “legend killer” contrasted sharply with Mysterio’s underdog status, heightening the stakes and audience investment.
Beyond the ring, backstage promos and ongoing segments indicated upcoming changes in Friday Night Smackdown’s presentation, promising a fresh and edgier viewing experience. The show’s acknowledgment of real-world issues, including Katrina’s aftermath, added a layer of seriousness to the programming.
As the WWE universe anticipated future pay-per-view events and storyline developments, this night’s events set the tone for escalating rivalries and character development, positioning Smackdown to compete aggressively in the evolving wrestling entertainment landscape.
