The April 11, 2005 edition of WWE RAW continued the fallout from WrestleMania 21, headlined by Batista’s first World Championship defense against Chris Benoit. Elsewhere, Edge’s refusal to cash in his title opportunity escalated tensions, while the tag team division began to fracture under growing pressure.
Tag Match: The BWO vs. The Shane Twins
Simon Dean distracted himself before the match by handing out samples of the Simon System, much to the frustration of Steven Richards. Dean showed little interest in the bout itself, leaving Richards to fend for himself against Mike Shane and Todd Shane.
Despite Richards attempting to take the match seriously, hoping to earn another opportunity at the World Tag Team Championships, Dean abandoned him, allowing the Shane Twins to secure a decisive victory.
Winners: The Shane Twins
Backstage: Simon Dean Targets New Recruits
As the Shane Twins celebrated backstage, Hardcore Holly watched on with clear interest. Moments later, Simon Dean approached the twins and pitched a partnership centered around promoting the Simon System.
While Todd dismissed the idea outright, Mike accepted Dean’s products sarcastically, remarking that the system would surely make them successful—“just like Simon Dean.”
Interview: Batista Addresses His Challenger
World Heavyweight Champion Batista criticized Edge for failing to secure his championship opportunity, questioning his resolve. Batista expressed respect for Chris Benoit, acknowledging Benoit’s injured arm, but made it clear that sentiment would not soften him in the ring.
General Manager Mick Foley Pushes Edge
Before the World Heavyweight Championship match, RAW General Manager Mick Foley addressed Edge directly. Foley spoke candidly about the sacrifices he made throughout his career to reach the top and emphasized that he never waited for the “right time.”
Foley urged Edge to cash in his title opportunity next week.
Edge fired back, insisting Foley had no authority over his timeline. He reminded Foley that he had a full year to act and scoffed at the idea of rushing into a match for a reign that might last only “a week or two.” Edge promised that when he reached the top of RAW, it would be permanent and on his terms.
Benoit interrupted, calling Edge a coward and daring him to leave the ring so “real champions” could compete. Edge sneered and exited up the ramp, brushing shoulders with Batista as the champion made his way to the ring.
World Heavyweight Championship Match: Batista (c) vs. Chris Benoit
Benoit fought valiantly, despite competing with only one healthy arm. He pushed Batista early, forcing the champion to weather pressure in his first title defense. Commentary noted Batista’s nerves, but as the match progressed, the champion settled in and asserted his dominance.
Batista ultimately put Benoit away with a Batista Bomb to retain the World Heavyweight Championship.
After the match, Batista helped Benoit to his feet and shook his hand, offering the ring to Benoit as the crowd applauded what was announced as his final night on RAW.
The moment was short-lived.
Edge stormed the ring and attacked Benoit from behind, viciously targeting the injured arm. Batista rushed back, forcing Edge to retreat through the crowd before he could be caught.
Winner: Batista retains
Backstage: Benoit Demands Justice
An irate Benoit searched for Edge backstage before being intercepted by Foley. Foley apologized and promised consequences, but Benoit warned that if Foley failed to act, he would handle the situation himself.
Backstage: BWO Fractures Further
Outside Foley’s office, Simon Dean waited to pitch a new stable concept involving the Shane Twins—only to be confronted by Richards. Richards accused Dean of prioritizing his “stupid” Simon System over their team and reminded him that despite their ECW popularity, they had accomplished nothing in WWE.
Dean insisted his product success mattered. Richards responded bluntly: Dean wasn’t successful—he was a loser.
Chris Benoit Says Goodbye to RAW
Standing on the stage, Benoit confirmed that after midnight, he would officially become a SmackDown superstar. But before leaving RAW for good, he promised to find Edge and collect his payback, one way or another.
William Regal Honors Tajiri
William Regal thanked Foley for last week’s main event opportunity and reflected on his partnership with Tajiri. Though they missed WrestleMania 21, headlining RAW together meant more than a spot on a card.
Regal announced that Tajiri would soon be returning to Japan, marking the end of his WWE run. Determined to honor his friend, Regal vowed that Tajiri would leave as a champion. Any team willing to step up was invited to do so.
Tajiri added simply that he would go out as a warrior.
Regal closed with a warning: anyone challenging them should expect to either tap out or get their head kicked off.
Damion Ferrell 