Following Monday’s Raw broadcast in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, a Champion vs. Champion match took place, replacing the advertised match between CM Punk and John Cena. Cena did not appear at the show since he is still recovering from arm surgery two weeks ago.
World Heavyweight Champion Sheamus faced WWE Champion CM Punk. The Celtic Warrior won by disqualification after being struck by Punk with the WWE Championship.
After the match, Vince McMahon appeared before the live audience to resume Jim Ross Appreciation Night. The WWE chief kindly spoke of Ross, dubbing him the best announcer ever, “including Gordon Solie,” and noted his dedication to the business, from recruiting talent to “joining a certain club” in Oklahoma City.
Triple H then appeared and made remarks similar to McMahon. He stated that “every boy in the back” wants J.R. to call his match. He then brought out Danny Hodge and Bill Watts, who spoke kindly of their friend. Pre-recorded messages from Jerry “The King” Lawler and University of Oklahoma football head coach Bob Stoops then aired on the TitanTron.
Triple H was then joined by the locker room, who gave Ross a standing ovation. Sheamus presented Ross with a glass sculpture declaring Ross as the “Voice of WWE.” The crowd chanted “Thank You J.R.” and he became teary-eyed.
Ross gave a speech about being a fat kid from Oklahoma who worked nineteen years to get to the top of his game and encouraged all kids staying out late on a school night to follow their dreams and passionately do what they love.
(source: F4WOnline.com)
