BOSTON – In this historic city, nearly 240 years ago, a group of men rebelled against the tyranny of the English establishment. Those American colonists would eventually go on to overcome their British oppressors. During Raw’s 900th episode celebration, however, it would be the Englishman who would prevail in the end.

The Undertaker vs. Bret Hart ended in a No Contest; World Heavyweight Champion Kane and The Nexus attacked The Deadman

Earlier in the evening, Wade Barrett promised to do something unforgettable during Raw’s 900th episode celebration. Consider that a promise kept.

As The Undertaker prepared for his battle against Bret Hart, Barrett complained that he deserved the bout. When he tried to prove himself, however, The Deadman summarily dispensed of him.

Then, the arena suddenly darkened. When light was restored, Kane mysteriously stood where The “Hit Man” had been just moments earlier. The two brothers of destruction circled one another before The Phenom swiftly latched onto Kane’s neck. And just as quickly, the arena lights dimmed again. When they brightened this time, The Big Red Monster had vanished. A new plague, however, would take his place.

The Nexus, minus behemoth Skip Sheffield, who suffered a severe ankle injury a week ago, crept toward the ring and surrounded The Deadman. The five proceeded to attack their prey to no avail when the lights cut off and on for a third time. While Kane stood atop the stage and looked on with maniacal glee, The Nexus had somehow emerged in control. Barrett slammed Undertaker to the canvas just before Justin Gabriel nailed the hapless Deadman with a crushing 450° Splash. The Phenom attempted to sit up, but he simply could not summon the strength.

The Nexus def. WWE Champion Sheamus, John Cena, Edge, Chris Jericho & Randy Orton in a 5-on-5 Tag Team Elimination Match

Timing really is everything. At the conclusion of the night’s main event, The Nexus’ leader Wade Barrett proved that as he stood as proud and tall as London’s Big Ben. Earlier in the evening, the Englishman was in the right place at the right time as he punished The Undertaker with a devastating slam to the canvas. At night’s end, he – along with his Nexus cohorts – emerged victorious in a 5-on-5 Tag Team Elimination Match against WWE Champion Sheamus, John Cena, Edge, Chris Jericho & Randy Orton.

Almost immediately, Jericho and Edge ditched their team. At a distinct disadvantage, The Celtic Warrior finally relented and was pinned by Heath Slater. Next up, Cena found himself in trouble against the overwhelming odds and eventually succumbed to the 450° Splash of Justin Gabriel.

Barrett’s fortuitous evening concluded, though, when he faced off against Orton as the remaining two competitors in the whittled-down bout. Although Orton has proven a staunch and worthy adversary of The Nexus and managed to eliminate Gabriel and Michael Tarver, he nonetheless was unable to overcome Barrett’s offense in a gutting defeat.

Owing to their mutual distrust of one another, the team of former world champions appeared to implode from lack of teamwork. Not surprising, perhaps, given the fact that they will be competing for the WWE Title at Night of Champions in three weeks. In the opening salvo for the coveted title, however, it appears Barrett has fired off one jolly good shot.

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