In the annals of WWE history, there are events that leave an indelible mark due to the sheer unpredictability of the squared circle. No Mercy 2007 is one such occasion that showcased the ever-changing nature of professional wrestling. From abrupt changes to a shockingly rapid WWE Championship reign, this throwback takes us on a journey back in time to a night of unexpected twists and memorable moments.
The Cena Conundrum: Plans Change
The stage was set for a colossal main event at No Mercy 2007: John Cena defending the WWE Championship against his long-time rival, Randy Orton, in a Last Man Standing Match. However, plans don’t always pan out in the world of sports entertainment. Cena’s torn right pectoral muscle on the October 1 episode of Raw changed the course of WWE history. He needed surgery and was forced to vacate the WWE Title, leaving the championship picture in disarray.
Intriguingly, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon seized the opportunity to ignite curiosity and keep fans guessing. McMahon appeared on ECW TV and announced that there would be a WWE Championship match at No Mercy but left fans in suspense, refraining from revealing the participants.
The uncertainty surrounding the WWE Championship created a buzz of anticipation, and fans flocked to see who would emerge as the new titleholder at No Mercy. The result? A significant uptick in pay-per-view buys, with 270,000 tuning in, ranking among the highest of the year, second only to the “big four” events: WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series.
- Advertisement -
The McMahon Misdirection
As No Mercy kicked off, Vince McMahon, flanked by Raw General Manager William Regal, addressed the WWE Universe. Vince’s signature strut led to a pivotal announcement that changed the course of the night. With Jim Ross and Jerry “The King” Lawler guiding us through the action on commentary, Vince revealed that John Cena’s debilitating injury had left him without the WWE Championship. This revelation was met with a mixed response from the passionate audience.
The fans were divided, with some supporting the Diamondbacks and others the Cubs, but Vince’s goal was clear: make history by crowning a new WWE Champion. McMahon’s unapologetic approach left no room for ambiguity. He declared that he made decisions for everyone’s benefit and would deliver what he deemed fit for the WWE Universe. When the crowd began to chant “Y2J,” Vince playfully denied their request, teasing a potential return of Chris Jericho.
Vince McMahon didn’t mince words when he introduced the new WWE Champion, Randy Orton. As Orton entered the arena, he was met with a chorus of boos, a testament to his villainous persona at the time. The significance of this moment was not lost on wrestling fans. It marked the first time that Orton would lay claim to the WWE Championship, adding another accolade to his already impressive career.
Vince McMahon left the decision of Orton’s first title defense up to the new champion, who took the opportunity to express his thoughts. Orton, the quintessential heel, relished in the moment, declaring Cena’s absence a blessing, sparing the former champion the humiliation of defeat. The crowd’s “Cena” chants didn’t deter Orton, who believed he was deserving of the championship.
Triple H’s Bold Challenge
As Orton basked in the glory of his title victory, a surprise guest interrupted the celebration. It was none other than “The Game” Triple H, resplendent in his babyface persona. Triple H took center stage, congratulating Orton on his championship win. The tension escalated as Hunter suggested an immediate title defense against the newly crowned champion.
- Advertisement -
Orton’s emphatic response, “No!” garnered a chorus of boos from the audience, underscoring his villainous character. Triple H, unyielding in his quest to claim the WWE Championship, stirred the crowd’s fervor, imploring them for their support. Hunter playfully insinuated that Orton might be fearful and went on to question Vince’s decision-making abilities.
The segment took an audacious turn as Triple H dared to taunt Vince McMahon directly, provoking the WWE Chairman with comments about his age and “grapefruits.” In a heated exchange, Triple H poked fun at Vince, insinuating that his manhood might not measure up. Vince’s fiery response led to an abrupt decision: Triple H would face Randy Orton for the WWE Championship immediately.
And so, the stage was set for an impromptu WWE Championship showdown, leaving the WWE Universe electrified with anticipation. Vince McMahon emphatically commanded, “Ring the damn bell!”
- Advertisement -
The Main Event: Orton vs. Triple H
Randy Orton and Triple H engaged in a high-stakes battle for the WWE Championship, with both men determined to emerge victorious. The crowd was firmly behind Triple H, showering him with adulation. Orton’s skills as a heel were on full display, targeting Triple H with calculated brutality.
In a hard-fought contest, both competitors showcased their in-ring prowess, but it was the unexpected ending that left an indelible mark on the night. The audience erupted with fervor as Triple H secured a shocking victory with a ROLLUP OF DEATH~! spot, capturing the WWE Championship.
The unexpected nature of this title change, along with the intensity of the match, elevated the entire event, with Triple H standing tall as the new WWE Champion. Orton, on the other hand, bore the shocked expression of a champion who had just experienced an unexpected turn of events.
The Domino Effect
In the aftermath of No Mercy 2007, Randy Orton was left bewildered, while Triple H celebrated with the WWE Championship in hand. Orton’s path took an unforeseen.
