SmackDown: March 2, 2012

World Heavyweight Champion Daniel Bryan def. Randy Orton by Count-out

SEATTLE – While seeking vengeance on World Heavyweight Champion Daniel Bryan for knocking him out of a WrestleMania opportunity two weeks ago, Randy Orton suddenly found himself sucked into a "Big Red" nightmare.

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After Daniel Bryan attacked Randy Orton on the Feb. 13 edition of Raw SuperShow WATCH) – thereby denying him his spot in the SmackDown Elimination Chamber Match, a possible World Heavyweight Title and a chance to headline WrestleMania – WWE's Apex Predator returned to SmackDown on a venomous quest of retribution.

SmackDown: Randy Orton vs. Daniel Bryan

In the punishing encounter that ensued Friday night, Bryan managed to escape two RKO’s before retreating outside the ring, with The Viper fast on his tail. However, just as Orton was about to deliver a devastating DDT onto the ringside floor, the vicious Kane suddenly emerged. Seizing the unexpected opportunity, Bryan hurled Orton into the steel ring post before jumping through the ropes to win the match by count-out.

Without skipping a beat, The Big Red Monster and WWE’s Apex Predator began an intense post-match brawl, one which culminated in Orton receiving an earth-shattering chokeslam to the canvas. Seizing the mic, the sadistic Kane leaned down toward the battle-worn Viper and eerily stated, "Welcome back."

Moments before SmackDown went off the air, an observing John Laurinaitis - who will assume the duties of SmackDown GM next Friday (STORY) - alluded that he may put Kane in a match against Theodore Long's girlfriend, Aksana. (WATCH)

Justin Gabriel def. Drew McIntyre

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Shortly after SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long warned Drew McIntyre that he must win under the threat of being fired (WATCH), the Scottish Superstar took on Justin Gabriel.

Unfortunately for The Chosen One, his high-flying opponent triumphed over him with the 450 Splash, and Long made good on his promise, giving McIntyre the long-awaited heave-ho.

SmackDown: Justin Gabriel vs. Drew McIntyre

Big Show def. Mark Henry

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Once again, Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes emerged to make fun of Big Show's 3-8 WrestleMania record, claiming that by costing the giant an opportunity to go to The Show of Shows at Elimination Chamber, he “saved” him from “floundering” yet again.

When The World’s Largest Athlete joined him in the ring, however, Rhodes quickly exited into the crowd. Before Show could pursue him, Theodore Long put a stop to it, announcing that the two adversaries would face off for the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania. (WATCH |  MATCH PREVIEW)

Then, as Rhodes sat in with the SmackDown announce team, Big Show battled Mark Henry in the ring. Charged with the prospect of impending WrestleMania redemption, the gigantic Superstar kicked out of the World’s Strongest Slam, then landed the WMD to reign supreme over the former World Heavyweight Champion.

SmackDown: Big Show vs. Mark Henry

Eve def. Natalya

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Prior to their match, Natalya confronted Eve to give her opinion on the situation with Zack Ryder, and she truly “let things rip.” (WATCH). Nevertheless, in the intense Divas contest that followed, Eve rose above the stink, reversing the third-generation Diva’s pin attempt for the quick three-count.

SmackDown: Natalya vs. Eve

Santino Marella def. Heath Slater

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Heath Slater climbed to the top turnbuckle, confident that he was about to deliver an arial attack that would ground Santino for the three-count. But then The Italian Stallion backed into the ropes, inadvertently causing his opponent to fall. Thinking on his feet, Santino quickly dropped The One Man Southern Rock Band with the Cobra for another huge win.

Confronted by Executive Vice President of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis, Theodore Long made a huge announcement (WATCH)

With "Mr. Excitement" taking control of SmackDown next Friday and Theodore Long running Raw SuperShow, Long informed his fellow GM that this coming Monday night, David Otunga will face The Great Khali!

SmackDown: Santino Marella vs. Heath Slater

Sheamus def. Dolph Ziggler

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While Sheamus informed the WWE Universe of his plans to teach World Heavyweight Champion Daniel Bryan some humility at WrestleMania, Vickie Guerrero and Dolph Ziggler interrupted. In the current question of who should be the General Manager of Raw and SmackDown, the outspoken pair threw their support behind Interim Raw GM John Laurinaitis, insulting GM Theodore Long in the process.

Moments later, Teddy put The Showoff into an impromptu match with Sheamus. Although United States Champion Jack Swagger’s attempted interference was met head-on with with The Great White’s fierce Brogue Kick, Ziggler nearly scored the upset victory on the No. 1 contender to the World Heavyweight Title. The Celtic Warrior recovered, however, and silenced his cocky adversary with White Noise for an impressive victory.

SmackDown: Sheamus vs. Dolph Ziggler

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Daniel Bryan def. Randy Orton (WATCH | PHOTOS)

Justin Gabriel def. Drew McIntyre (WATCH | PHOTOS)

Big Show def. Mark Henry (WATCH | PHOTOS)

Eve def. Natalya (WATCH | PHOTOS)

Santino Marella def. Heath Slater (WATCH | PHOTOS)

Sheamus def. Dolph Ziggler (WATCH | PHOTOS)