Batista missed the chance to prise the World Heavyweight championship away from the Undertaker on Friday Night SmackDown.
'Taker retains title after Sweet Chin assist
Batista missed the chance to prise the World Heavyweight championship away from the Undertaker after the pair renewed their rivalry on Friday Night SmackDown.
The epic war between two of the most feared WWE superstars was sealed after the Animal found himself on the receiving end of an emphatic Tombstone Piledriver.
However, the Phenom is indebted to the unexpected interference from Shawn Michaels after HBK rescued the champion from the brink of defeat.
Just as the Animal lined up his prey for a deadly Batista Bomb, HBK slid into the ring and delivered a devastating dose of Sweet Chin Music - nearly decapitating the challenger in the process.
The no-disqualification stipulation ultimately proved Batista's undoing as the Undertaker scooped up his opponent and delivered his trademark finish to ensure he heads into Backlash with the gold firmly wrapped around his waist.
Courage and attrition
It was the first time in nearly five months that the World Heavyweight title was on the line on Smackdown and the seventh clash between Batista and the Phenom since WrestleMania XXIII.
With the Animal holding a 2-1 advantage going into the fight it looked for long periods as if there may be a new opponent in line to face Edge at Baltimore in the Backlash title fight on Sunday night.
After blocking Undertaker's attempt to go Old School and kicking out of a back-breaking Last Ride, Batista was producing the kind of courage and attrition that has resulted in him securing the gold in previous times.
The Deadman was becoming increasingly frustrated by his opponents unwillingness to admit defeat, and it nearly cost him dear.
The champion dragged Batista out of the ring and attempted to deliver a neck-breaking tombstone onto the steel steps.
Hostitlity
However, the Animal displayed Herculean-esque athleticism and brawn to wiggle his way out of the Phenom's grasp - instead dropping the 'Taker with a thundering spinebuster onto the unforgiving steel.
With Undertaker on dream street the Batista Bomb looked imminent. Just as everything was in place for a famous win, HBK sprung from the seats to ensue his recent hostility with the Animal by delivering a knockout blow.
The Phenom dragged himself to his feet and thrust Batista onto his shoulder before dropping him head first onto the canvas.
Taker now heads into Backlash attempting to defend his title against Edge as Batista has the ideal opportunity to seek revenge over HBK when the pair renew their acquaintance live on
Sky Sports 1 on Sunday night.
