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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (6/11/18)

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Is Raw giving away a Money in the Bank match for free!?

Raw goes hard before Money in the Bank! The Big Dog and the Modern Day Maharaja will have a match BEFORE their MITB match! Will Mahal use this opportunity to take Roman Reigns out before the PPV? Plus, two Fatal 4 Ways, featuring all of Raw’s MITB match representatives! That is, if Natalya and Alexa Bliss can compete.

 

All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Women’s Fatal 4 Way: Ember Moon VS Sasha Banks VS Natalya VS Alexa Bliss; Natalya wins.
  • Breezango VS Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre; Ziggler & McIntyre win.
  • Roman Reigns VS Jinder Mahal Sunil Singh; Roman wins.
  • The B Team VS Heath Slater & Rhyno; The B Team wins.
  • Bayley VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad; Ruby wins.
  • Curt Hawkins VS No Way Jose; Jose wins.
  • Men’s Fatal 4 Way: Braun Strowman VS Finn Balor VS Kevin Owens VS Bobby Roode; Strowman wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Raw opens with ladders!

Little Rock has all eight superstars competing this Sunday in their respective Men’s and Women’s Money in the Bank matches. The Monster Among Men, the GLORIOUS One, the Extraordinary Man, the Prizefighter, as well as the Goddess, War Goddess, Queen of Harts and Boss all wait as Raw GM Kurt Angle heads to the ring!

Angle reminds us that MITB is Sunday, on the WWE Network. For the first time ever, the matches will be co-branded 4v4. It is one of the most grueling matches in WWE history, testing you mentally, physically and emotionally, but with an amazing reward. The winners can cash-in anywhere at anytime for a title match. But then CONSTABLE Baron Corbin, sporting a new look, arrives.

The Lone Wolf, as appointed by Stephanie McMahon, lets us know that as Stephanie’s representative, he just wants to ensure Raw runs smoothly tonight. As the GM, Angle would love for those contracts to come to Raw. And if they don’t, Stephanie will be disappointed. We don’t want to disappoint Stephanie now, do we? Alexa Bliss says that despite her injury, she will fight through the pain and win. Sasha Banks speaks up, wanting to know what hurts. Alexa’s shoulder…? But then, weren’t you limping? Alexa can hurt in multiple places! Ember Moon says it won’t matter, Alexa will be real sore after losing.

Sasha and Ember argue, but Angle wants them to calm down. He brings up that Natalya can compete, but is she sure she can be in a ladder match? Natty says she is, because she is ready to win a shot against her friend and soon-to-be Raw WOmen’s Champion, Ronda Rousey. Sasha says Natty’s right, Ronda can win. But Sasha’s gonna be Ms. MITB. Kevin Owens speaks up, saying Angle is right about these ladders. But this isn’t fair, Strowman is so tall! Is the briefcase going to be up higher for Strowman’s sake? Roode asks if Kevin wants that briefcase lowered for his sake. Yes that’s a great idea!

Angle says the briefcases are all the same height for everyone. Kevin complains, then kisses up to Corbin. Strowman wants to quit this squabbling and do something about Kevin! Kevin wants to make Stephanie proud but he’s being threatened. Strowman doesn’t make threats, he makes promises. Strowman vows to shut Kevin up, climb up and take the contract to cash-in on Lesnar! The men start arguing, so Alexa SHRIEKS to stop them all. “Y’all need to calm down.” THis is like the Real Housewives of WWE. Besides, Alexa is confident she and her Mixed Match Challenge partner will win.

How cute, Alexa. But Sasha feels her MMC partner will win. Finn thanks Sasha for that vote of confidence, and returns the favor. They all argue again, and now Strowman ROARS, “ENOUGH!” Sunday, someone will #GetTheseHands! The Monster Among Men has spoken, but will even he be able to win when there are a total of eight top tier superstars in the ladder matches?

 

Women’s Fatal 4 Way: Ember Moon VS Sasha Banks VS Natalya VS Alexa Bliss!

The Queen of Harts has recovered from her leg injury last week, and Lil’ Ms. Bliss has “recovered” from hers, but will those be points to exploit for the Boss and Prophecy of Flame?

The bell rings and all four women look up to the prize in the sky. Sasha taunts Alexa about the “bad leg”, then they all close in. Alexa kicks Natty then throws Sasha into Ember. Alexa SLAPS Ember, then throws Natty out. The fans cheer for the sassy Five Foot Fury, but Ember shoves her away. Alexa crossbodies, but Ember catches her for the Fall Away Slam! Ember kips up, then glares at Alexa. Alexa runs away, but bumps into Sasha. She’s cornered, so she runs away, only to run into Natty! Natty throws Alexa into barriers by her hair! Natty joins Ember and Sasha, and the three circle around.

They approach, Ember headlocks but Natty powers out. Ember makes it through the double hip toss to dropkick Natty! She dodges Sasha, crucifix pin, ONE. Sasha returns it, ONE, but then takedown to jackknife. ONE, and so Sasha wheelbarrows. Natty holds her up, but Sasha dropkicks Ember away to roll Natty. TWO, to Natty’s cover, TWO. Natty runs Ember over with a clothesline! Fans fire up for the Queen of Harts as she circles with Sasha. Sasha goes after the bad leg, then snapmares Natty into a low Meteora. Cover, TWO, but she’s right back on Natty with an arm wrench. Natty rolls and flips to wrench Sasha down. Fans rally while Sasha endures. Sasha gets up and pushes Natty back. She breaks free, but misses Natty to end up in the rebound.

Sasha breaks out and catches the kick to give the knee, only for Natty to get a takedown! Natty wants the Sharpshooter but Sasha won’t let her. Sasha fights Natty but Natty keeps going, only for Sasha to shove her all the way out. Ember returns, roll-up, TWO. Ember swings but reverses the whip, Sasha goes up but Ember throws her off. Sasha hits back from the apron, then climbs up, to DIVE onto Natty! But then Ember builds speed to DIVE!

Ember barrels right into Sasha and into barriers! She drags Sasha up and into the ring, but Alexa runs in for that killer right! Alexa covers Sasha, TWO! The Fatal 4 Way is fast and furious while we go to break.

Raw returns and Natty endures a leg stretch from Alexa. Ember and Sasha stir on the outside while Alexa shrieks for Natty to quit. Natty endures while Ember drags herself up. Natty fights Alexa off, but then a dragon screw brings her back down. Ember returns but runs into another stiff right from the sassy Goddess. Alexa goes after the leg again, dropping elbows and yanking at it. Natty kicks her again, but Alexa makes her pay for it. Alexa kicks her leg out, then puts the leg on the rope to wrench it. Natty holds the ropes but Alexa drags her off to go back to the stretch. Natty rolls her off, cover, TWO. Alexa slips out of the scoop to kick out the leg! But Sasha returns to rally with lariats! Sasha blocks the kick to give the knee!

Sasha runs into the corner but is put on the apron. Alexa goes to hit Sasha down but Sasha knees her away, to then hit a swinging Meteora! Cover, TWO! One former Raw Women’s Champion is surprised by the other, but then Ember crossbodies in on them both! Ember kicks away on Sasha, then runs into the corner. Sasha turns things around but Ember counters, tornado snap suplex! Cover, but Alexa breaks it. Ember glares at Alexa and powers her into a corner for shoulders. Alexa kicks Ember away, sunset flip powerbomb, but Meteora from Sasha! TWO, and all the women are down as we go picture in picture. Alexa, Sasha and Ember all catch their breath on the mat while Natty is somewhere outside. Sasha rolls after Alexa as she rolls away. Ember comes over and it’s a triple brawl as we return to single picture.

Ember and Sasha work together to put Alexa up top. They climb up together, but then Natty returns! It’s a double powerbomb! Alexa slips out and Natty backs off with her bad leg. Alexa stands, and Twisted Bliss into knees! They’re all down again while we go to break.

Raw returns again, and Alexa dodges Ssaha to give her a backbreaker. Cover, TWO, and Alexa grows frustrated. She drags Sasha up but Ssaha hits the backstabber! Into Bank Statement crossface! Alexa flails, endures, but Natty breaks it up with a stomp! Natty hits a 2-for-1 on the dropkick, but that leg is slowing her down. She drags Alexa up and out, to then hobble over to Sasha. Natty wants the Sharpshooter, and gets it! Sasha endures, but Ember SUPERKICKS Natty in the back! The hold breaks and Sasha rolls away, then Ember puts Natty in a corner. Ember fires up, runs in, and hits the handspring elbow. She puts Natty down, then climbs up. Natty gets up, ECLIPSE!!

Cover, but Alexa throws Ember only for Ember to throw her. Alexa drags her out and the goddesses of Raw brawl. Alexa puts Ember into steps! Cover on Natty, Sasha breaks it! Sasha saves the match, and fans know “This is Awesome!” The Boss stands while Natty writhes and Alexa stirs. Alexa swings but misses, only to elbow Sasha back. Sasha wants another backstabber but Alexa hotshots her thne throws her out! Natty rolls Alexa, into Sharpshooter! Alexa shrieks, and taps! Natty wins!

Winner: Natalya, by submission

The former SmackDown Women’s Champion wins, because it’s about the timing and the toughness. Natty shows she can do both, but can she do it when ladders and four other women are involved?

 

Kevin Owens confronts Finn Balor.

He offers olives. Like, an olive branch. What does he want? Kevin knows the Fatal 4 Way got chaotic for the women, but says the men need a plan. Or is Finn still upset about last week? Kevin can’t let that happen again this week. They’re both competitors, but they’r both former Universal Champions. And neither of them got a proper rematch. What if Strowman wins? What if Strowman succeeds? He could be holding that title, their title, forever. Finn can’t beat Strowman and Kevin would need a lot of effort to. What’s his point? They need to work together, as well as Roode, to eliminate Strowman. Tonight can be every man against monster. Kevin leaves Finn to think on that. Will Finn accept this alliance?

 

Breezango VS Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre!

The Fashion Police are in Little Rock, but the Show-Off and Scottish Stud are planning to make them pay for the early elimination in last week’s Tag Team Battle Royal.

McIntyre glares daggers into Breezango, but it’s Ziggler who starts, and he starts fast on Prince Pretty. They’ve had issue in the past, but now it’s even more aggressive as Ziggler grinds his boot on Breeze’s face. Ziggler then grinds Breeze’s face into the ropes. Ziggler and Breeze brawl, but Ziggler kicks low and drops the elbow. Cover, TWO, but Ziggler keeps Breeze away from Fandango. McIntyre tags in and stomps away on Breeze. McIntyre rips Breeze’s shirt off to chop his bare chest! He doesn’t stop as he stomps on Breeze more. Tag to Ziggler, then another chop. McIntyre wants Ziggler to finish this, and Ziggler taunts Fandango as he drags Breeze back up. The referee keeps Fandango back, and Ziggler toys with Breeze. Breeze enziguris Ziggler! Both men are down, hot tags!

Fandango runs out and chops, but McIntyre puts him in a corner. McIntyre misses and Fandango chops more. Fandango ends up on the apron but climbs up. Ziggler distracts and McIntyre trips him up. Breeze leaps but is caught and gut wrenched into a powerbomb ONTO Fandango! McIntyre tags Ziggler, and they finish it with a SUPERKICK to Breeze. Then for Fandango, the Claymore ZigZag!! Cover, Ziggler & McIntyre win!

Winners: Ziggler & McIntyre, Ziggler pinning

The “D&D Train” is rolling on, and it doesn’t look like anyone can stop them. Will Ziggler & McIntyre take the show by force, and then take the titles the same way?

Ziggler & McIntyre speak.

“Last week, there was a tag team battle royal and that was nothing more than a fluke.” They’re over it, so get over it. This is proof, Exhibit A & B, the Fashion Police. Some question their guts, their skills, their alliance. “Bad move!” This isn’t just hype, so every tag team on Raw, even the champions, “take a good look! Because the show starts and ends right here! This is your future.” Ziggler & McIntyre hold this show in their hands, and vow to SAVE it by taking out every other team.

 

Backstage interview with Roman Reigns.

The Big Dog faces Jinder Mahal now, but will also face him again at MITB. Is he surprised? No, because Mahal is an idiot. The fact Roman isn’t in the MITB ladder match is because of Mahal. Roman will not be able to cash in on Lesnar and take back what is “legitimately” his. Roman makes this clear: everything coming is not free, Mahal earned this whooping. He’s giving Mahal his receipt, “paid in full.” Win or lose, will either man be fit to compete again at MITB this Sunday?

 

Roman Reigns VS Jinder Mahal!

When a grudge is this personal, why wait another week? MITB comes a bit early, but will it be a one-time-only?

Before the match, Mahal speaks while Little Rock boos. “I challenged Roman Reigns to a match tonight to prove a point: He’s not nearly as unstoppable as he thinks.” Roman may be a Grand Slam Champion that’s main-evented Wrestlemania, “but the winds are changing.” Mahal feels it, and sees what we don’t. At MITB, Mahal envisions Roman suffering, unable to keep up. Roman’s eyes will show defeat after he takes Khallas after Khallas. Mahal sees his hand raised over the “exposed” Roman. But then Roman comes out to get this match started!

Mahal grins at Roman, he knows he’s ready to have this match. Mahal knows Roman blames Mahal for not being part of the MITB Ladder Match. But it’s Roman’s own failures that cloud his judgment. Oh, did Roman think this match was with Mahal? No, the challenge wasn’t for facing Mahal. The challenge is for another great Indian, “a man who is fearless, who stands shoulders above all competition.” Yes, Roman’s opponent is… The Great SUNIL SINGH! Sunil doesn’t seem to remember that part of the plan.

The bell rings, and Sunil pleads with Mahal. Mahal pumps Sunil up, but he’s just a lamb to the slaughter. Roman uppercuts Mahal! Sunil is all alone now, and Roman grins as he whips him into a SUPERMAN PUNCH! Roman fires up, laughs at Mahal, then lets out the howl. SPEAR! Cover, Roman wins!

Winner: Roman, by pinfall

But Mahal goes after Roman right away! KHALLAS!

Mahal sacrificed his pawn so that he could get the drop on his enemy. Will Mahal pay for the bait and switch come Sunday?

 

The B Team VS Heath Slater & Rhyno!

The “Best” Team is set to face the Deleters of Worlds for the Raw Tag Team Championships, but they’ll test themselves in a match against the inaugural SmackDown Tag Team Champions. These four men were the final two teams in last week’s battle royal, but that’s far from a normal match. Will Axel & Bo stay “undefeated” going into their match with Bray Wyatt & WOKEN Matt Hardy?

The bell rings and Axel starts with Slater. Slater fires off on Axel, Axel powers out of the headlock, but Slater runs Axel over. Axel clubs Slater back, then whips, but Slater comes back with forearms. Slater hits Bo for good measure, but Axel powers Slater to a corner. Bo tags in, and the B Team mugs Slater in the corner. Axel backs off while BO reels Slater into an STO. Cover, TWO, so Bo drops many knees. Cover, TWO, but Bo keeps on Slater with a chinlock. Rhyno and the fans rally and Slater fights out with a jawbreaker. Slater brings Bo over but Bo whips him away. Bo hits Rhyno, then bumps him off buckles. Slater dodges Bo but Axel tags in. Axel ducks the kick but not hte punches. Slater sees Bo coming, but Bo slips out, B Team neckbreaker!

Cover, The B Team wins!

Winners: The B Team (Axel & Bo), Axel pinning

They are still “undefeated”, and celebrate like they’ve already won the titles. But the champions appear via titantron, and applaud for their future opponents. “This jovial jamboree” that they partake in is… WONDERFUL~! Ye-e-e-e-es! Delightful~! Marvelous~! But they’re here. Yes, the Deleters of Worlds appear on stage. “Well done, you Obsolete Mules!” The B Team wants to prove themselves worthy of the titles. But beware, for their are omniscient~! “Just look around you, man.” The Woken surround you. The fireflies surround you. And they are always watching. Bray knows that Bo & Axel are burning up like the River Styx. That’s fear, and it reminds them that they bought the ticket, and now must ride the ride, ye-e-e-e-es. The Obnoxious Ants will be eaten, and deleted! The Yin-Yang of the Raw Tag Team Division has delivered an ominous ultimatum. Will the B Team remain undefeated and un-deleted?!

 

Elias speaks.

The Drifter says tonight’s performance will be a struggle. he’s not used to performing in front of Arkansas hillbillies. Elias will make his way out to the ring after the break.

“Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.”

The Drifter has made his way to the ring, but has a mixed reaction from Little Rock. He plays his guitar and that gets more fans on his side. Elias wants them to remember the moment, because they are seeing a “once in a lifetime” performer live, and just moments before he becomes Intercontinental Champion. Seth Rollins will learn that WWE really stands for “WALK WITH ELIAS!” But other fans chant “Burn It Down!” in support of the Architect. As always, Elias asks the fans silence phones, hold applause, and for their own sake, shut mouths.

Elias plays again, singing “He’s the Architect, but he tells us to Burn it Down. Make up your damn mind, Seth, those are the worst nicknames around. Seth Freakin’ Rollins, am I supposed to think that cool? And I get it, you do Crossfit, so I know that you’re a tool.” Seth is void of talent and is a disgrace to Monday Night Raw, but he might even have been born in this “toilet” known as Arkansas. Seth will squeal like a pig, and walking with Elias is something to fear. But y’know what? Elias wasn’t going to, but he’s got something to show us all. He moves out of the spotlight to bring out a specially painted guitar for when Elias becomes IC Champion. John Mayer gave him that. They’re good friends.

This custom Fender, a thing of beauty. Elias won’t perform another song, which the fans like to hear. But next week, when Elias returns, he’ll play the greatest song yet with this guitar and that title. But speaking of, here comes Seth Rollins! The Architect rushes the ring but Elias is right on him! But Rollins sends Elias out with a hard bump on the apron. Rollins is fuming, and shouts for Elias to get some guts! Two weeks with a sneak attack guitar smash, for what? Making a name for himself? Rollins ain’t that hard to find. Rollins is in the same spot every Monday: the middle of the ring, with the IC title on his shoulder, begging for a fight. All Elias had to do was ask.

But the worst part? Rollins wanted to like Elias. Elias could do it all, from the spotlight to the songs to the guitars. Guitars… Rollins sees that custom Fender… Well this guitar… Elias tries to get Rollins to stop, and save it for Sunday. Rollins wants a closer look at the Fender. He picks it up, and “you weren’t lying, this is really, really nice.” Did the fans get a good look? Look at the craftsmanship. This should go to someone in Little Rock as part of a charity auction! Any takers? So many fans want it, but so does Elias. This is from Elias’ friend, John Mayer, right? Rollins wants to be very careful with it. He sets it down, and fans want him to smash it, but it’s so well-made. Rollins fakes a stomp, and Elias panics.

Elias begs Rollins wait for Sunday, but fans want him to smash it! Rollins knows he can’t play instruments, but he does know a song that’s three words long. And it usually happens when he taps his foot. So if Arkansas is willing to help out… “Burn it Down! Burn it Down!” That’s the one. CURB STOMP ON THE GUITAR!

Elias is seething while Rollins gets himself some payback. Will Elias suffer more than just property damage at MITB?

 

Kevin Owens talks with Bobby Roode.

Seeing Seth Rollins smash that guitar, it reminds Kevin of Braun smashing the ladder like it was nothing. Roode is lucky to be standing. What does Kevin want? What’s best for everyone. Roode and Finn can’t beat Strowman alone, and not even Kevin can. If Strowman becomes Mr. MITB, that’s bad. They need to stop him. Therefore, tonight, a three-man alliance. Either Roode admits Kevin is right, or he goes it alone and ends up like the ladder. “It’s your call. Nice robe.” Roode also contemplates this recruitment pitch. Will Kevin get the GLORIOUS One on his side?

 

Bayley VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad!

The Huggable One is already in the ring while the Squad wreaks a bit of good wholesome havoc backstage. Can Bayley survive the Riott all alone? Or will the Squad get revenge for those eliminations in the Women’s Gauntlet match?

The bell rings and Bayley is wary of Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan. Bayley and Ruby circle while Liv & Sarah start the drums, and Ruby knocks Bayley down. Ruby clubs away on Bayley while Liv & Sarah taunt her. Ruby bends Bayley back against the bottom rope, then stalks her to a corner. The ref reprimands Ruby as she pulls Bayley’s hair. Ruby pie-faces Bayley, then puts her in another corner. Ruby throws forearms and kicks, but fans cheer Bayley. Bayley boots Ruby away, then rolls into a takedown! Bayely throws hands, then clubs Ruby. Ruby puts her in a corner, then fires off body shots, but Bayley turns it around.

Ruby elbows Bayley away, then drags Bayley up for a whip. Bayley reverses, Ruby kicks her away, but Bayley hits the Thesz Press! Bayley throws more hands, covers, TWO. The former Raw Women’s Champion drags Ruby up and into a corner, then to another. Bayley does it a third time, then drags Ruby away to whip her in hard. Bayley hits a bulldog! She goes to a corner and hops up, for the flying elbow! Ruby rolls out and the Squad regroups with their leader. Bayley waits, but then slips out around the side for a daredevil dropkick! She doesn’t have quite enough, but she still manages to push Ruby into the LED, then saido suplex Ruby down! Ruby writhes while we go to break.

Raw returns, and Ruby wrenches Bayley back with a grounded keylock. Ruby screams for Bayley to give up, but the Huggable One refuses. Fans rally up, and Bayley powers up to fight out. Bayley throws Ruby, then dropkicks the legs out. She knees ruby to ropes, then dodges to send her into a corner. Ruby grabs Bayley with Deadly Nightshade! Cover, TWO, and Ruby grows frustrated. Ruby keeps on Bayley and those bad shoulders while we go picture in picture to plug the PPV. Bayley endures the wrenching and the grinding as Ruby digs a knee in while pulling on that arm. Ruby bends that arm and pulls the wrist, but fans rally for Bayley as we go single picture. Bayley gets up while Ruby chicken wings and thrashes. Bayley picks Ruby up like a backpack to back her to the ropes. They hit buckles, but Ruby holds on.

Bayley tries again, and snapmares Ruby off. Ruby runs back in, but Bayley snake eyes and back elbows! Bayley rolls, wacky waving arms to a big knee strike. Ruby goes down while Bayley climbs up. Bayley aims, for the Macho Elbow! It misses! Ruby covers, TWO! The Squad is shocked that Bayley survived her crash and burn. Ruby drags Bayley up again, then wrenches the arm, but Bayley rolls her up! TWO, and Bayley goes to the apron. She slides back in to roll Ruby, TWO, so Ruby high stacks. TWO, and Bayley rocks Ruby with a knee. Ruby shakes the cobwebs out, but Bayley is ready. Liv distracts, and Sarah distracts, then Ruby throws Bayley into the post! Then, Riott Kick! Cover, Ruby wins!

Winner: Ruby, by pinfall

The Squad helps their leader get the W. But they’re not done with Bayley, as they use face paint to scribble and write all over Bayley. They leave a big letter R on Bayley’s belly before knocking her out with a right. Will the Squad continue to #StartaRiott on Raw?

 

Ronda Rousey talks with Natalya backstage.

Natty warns Rousey that Nia Jax might try something. Ronda thanks Natty for the advice. The Baddest Woman and the Irresistible Force meet face to face, after the break.

Jonathan Coachman presides over this coming Face-to-Face.

This Sunday, it will be one of the biggest nights in Raw Women’s Division history as Nia Jax defends her title against Ronda Rousey. But before that, they will meet again here and now. Coach introduces the challenger, “Rowdy” Ronda!

Ronda appears and takes her seat, then Coach introduces the champion, Nia Jax!

Nia joins Ronda and Coach in the ring, and Coach knows that the next time they meet, the title is on the line.

What does the champion say about this friendly rivalry become an almost angry one? Nia isn’t surprised. Both women are very competitive. Things get tense when it comes to seeing who is best. Nia was just pushing some buttons. Ronda is beautiful, talented and popular, “she’s still very new in the WWE.” Ronda’s success was form Strike Force and UFC, which have very different rules. WWE allows things MMA doesn’t, like headbutts, slaps, back strikes, hair pulling, and more. Nia has had all those done to her and has done those to others. Come Sunday, Nia will show Ronda exactly what she means. Ronda responds: she doesn’t plan, she improvises. And Ronda will improvise Nia’s arm off. Coach reminds Ronda she’s only had one match. True, but Ronda earned that win.

Nia does give Ronda credit. That one match was impressive. But it was a tag match, against a part-timer. Ronda has never had a singles match, nor a title match, and no offense, Nia’s been grinding in WWE for years. Nia is not Stephanie, she’s THE Raw Women’s Champion. And yet Ronda wants to take Nia’s arm? Nia will take Ronda’s rep. “Because when I’m done with you, they’re gonna call me the Baddest Woman on the Planet.” Nia knows she’s gonna win. It’s why she challenged Ronda at all. Because at the end of the day, Ronda’s not ready.

Ronda grins and laughs as she stands up. “Not ready?” Ronda was told that when she was 17 and made the Olympics team. And she was told that again when she went after the Strike Force title after only four fights, but she still won. And she got it again when she main-evented with record attendance. Everyone thought she wasn’t ready for UFC, but now she’s a UFC hall of famer! “I am Ronda Rousey, and I was born ready!” Ronda takes off the jacket, and now Nia stands. Nia shows Ronda the belt, then goes for a punch! Ronda blocks it! But Nia headbutts Ronda down! Nia drags Ronda up by her ponytail, but Ronda catches Nia into the armbar!

Nia holds on tight, but Ronda keeps trying. The champ stands up and deadlifts her challenger, but Ronda wrangles Nia back down. Nia taps!! Ronda lets Nia go, having proved her point. Can Ronda do that all over again on Sunday to become the new Raw Women’s Champion?

 

Curt Hawkins VS No Way Jose!

The Fact Checker, the Superstar Factory, the History-Making Machine did indeed make history: he is the man of 200 consecutive losses. Will Hawkins himself finally #FacetheFacts that he’s not cut out for Raw anymore?

Hawkins’ music hits, but he doesn’t come out. Jose is confused, as is the referee. When Hawkins doesn’t come out the second time, the bell rings and it is now a ring count. The count reaches 5, but Hawkins doesn’t appear. But then he appears from the CROWD! He rolls Jose, TWO, Fastball Special!

Cover, Jose wins!

Winner: Jose, by pinfall

A clever idea from Hawkins, but it wasn’t enough. Hawkins is now Mr. 201, will he ever get out from under the losing streak?

 

Finn talks with Roode.

They’ve both talked with Kevin. Do they trust Kevin? Nope. But who do they trust? The devil they now, or the Monster Among Men? Roode feels they should work with Kevin at first, but they need to keep their eyes on him, too. Finn agrees, he’ll keep an eye on Kevin, and one on Roode.

 

WWE and Raw look closer at Katie Millar.

Katie is a powerlifter in the coming Special Olympics games. She never knew she was so strong. The Special Olympics introduced her to new people and friends, including Coach Tim. Katie has improved in her deadlifts, and has improved her confidence. The confidence boost helped her get a job, and helps her be happy in life. The Seattle Games are coming, so cheer Katie and the other athletes on as they #GoForGold!

 

Renee Young hosts a Raw Obstacle Course.

First up, Sami Zayn, who concocted this idea.

But why did he decide to challenge Bobby Lashley to this? All Sami did was ask if Lashley was actually an American soldier. Fans took offense then and then take offense now. Sami speaks on how everyone came to defend Lashley, but there’s no way to verify any of that. Lashley can prove it, if he does this Army based obstacle course faster than Sami. Sami explains piece by piece what you have to do. First, the tire flip, but it’s a 225 lbs. tractor tire. Then there’s the low crawls, where Lashley will fail because he’s heavy while Sami is lean. Then there’s the “Three Sisters” wall jump, from Kathy to Francis to the “Great Wall of Jessica.” Fourth is the Monkey Bars, easy enough, but in Sami’s opinion, Lashley will be too tired to properly swing.

And if by some miracle he makes it past that, it’s the dreaded rope climb! Pretty hard to climb this rope at 100%, but Lashley will have to do it last to ring those bells and stop the timer. From what Sami is told, the Green Berets can do this in roughly two minutes. Sami did a test run and came in at 90 seconds. That’s without a warm-up and with the bad hand crushed by Lashley, as well as no motivation. But imagine how he’ll do with everyone cheering him on! And when Sami wins the obstacle course challenge, the victory will be dedicated to the real best country: Canada. With that, Renee introduces Lashley.

What is Lashley’s reaction to this challenge? Everyone is tired of listening to Sami. Lashley will beat him at this obstacle course, then beat him down at MITB. A coin toss will decide who goes first. Sami wants to keep Lashley at a safe distance. Sami trusts Renee with the coins. Heads it’s Lashley, Tails it’s Sami. Heads, go Bobby Lashley. Fans fire up, and Lashley sets up by the tire. Sami wants the fans to shut up so he can count down the start. No cheating, no head starts! Does Lashley understand? Three… Two… One, GO.

Lashley flips the tire twice, runs down the ramp, crawls real low, then hops the walls. He clears the third wall at 20 seconds and hits the monkey bars with ease. He even shows off a pull-up first. Then Lashley hits the ropes, and without using legs, he hits the bells at 48 seconds! But then Sami ambushes Lashley! This was never about an obstacle course! Sami throws Lashley into the frames, then HELLUVA KICKS Lashley down. He even swings away on the rope. Fans boo while Sami celebrates and talks trash. The referees keep Sami away from Lashley, but Sami grins all the way to the back. Fans chant ‘USA! USA!” in support of Lashley, will he get revenge on Sami on Sunday?

 

Kevin talks strategy with Finn and Roode.

What makes him think they agreed to anything? But then Strowman comes by, and dares them to go 3v1 against him. Strowman roars, and that alone scares them a bit. The Fatal 4 Way is up next, will Strowman leave three top tier superstars down and out before MITB? Or will Kevin’s “plan” work out?

Men’s Fatal 4 Way: Braun Strowman VS Finn Balor VS Kevin Owens VS Bobby Roode!

The Monster Among Men, the Extraordinary Man, the Prizefighter and the GLORIOUS One will all compete in the Men’s MITB ladder match along with The Miz, Samoa Joe, Rusev and a member of the New Day. This main event is simply an appetizer for that main event, who will be in pole position for Raw after tonight?

The bell rings, and things are tense as Strowman waits for the alliance to make a move. Finn and Roode hesitate, not wanting Kevin to take advantage, but Kevin just cowers in the corner. Strowman roars and barrels through to ram Kevin into the corner! Then he swats Finn and Roode down with ease. Kevin runs out but gets swatted down, too. Strowman throws Roode across the way, then clubs Finn down. Strowman hits Kevin, then whips him to ropes. Kevin holds on and bails out, as do Roode and Finn. This unofficial handicap match is going Strowman’s way while we go to one more break.

Raw returns once more, and Strowman waits for the others to return. Kevin, Finn and Roode flank Strowman and surround him. They club and kick away but Strowman is strong. They ram him into a corner and ram in shoulders and kicks. Kevin taunts Strowman, “Who’s the Monster now?” Finn and Roode throw hands and chops, then Kevin rams in his shoulder. Strowman stays standing but the assault keeps going. Kevin runs in, but then Strowman shoves him down! Strowman swats Roode and side slams Finn! Finn rolls away, but Strowman goes after Roode. Kevin goes after Strowman, but it doesn’t bother Strowman at all. Strowman clubs Roode down, then scares Kevin out of the ring. Kevin pleads while Strowman pursues, but Finn flies in with a dropkick. The alliance keeps on Strowman with more clubbing forearms, but Strowman explodes out!

Strowman glares at the ring leader and pursues Kevin up the ring and to the backstage area. Finn and Roode wait, and Strowman tosses Kevin back out! Strowman drags Kevin up by his ear, then headbutts him. Kevin staggers away, but in come Finn and Roode, only for Strowman to smack them away with uppercuts. Strowman grabs Kevin, and throws him into the LED wall. The Monster dominates all three men, then goes to a ladder and brings it down. Strowman goes to the announce desk, and Coach, Cole and Graves run away. Strowman clears the table, then glares back at the trio. He storms over and grabs Kevin, hauling him up onto his shoulder. But Roode uses a ladder as a batternig ram. He and Finn work together and hit Strowman again.

Roode and Finn herd Strowman to the desk, and they keep going on him with clubbing forearms. Kevin positions a standing ladder nearby, and they place Strowman on the desk. Roode and Finn hold the ladder still for Kevin to climb. Kevin aims and… SUPER FROG SPLASH!! Kevin decimates Strowman and the desk!! Raw goes to one final break.

Raw is back once again, and the match has returned to the ring. With Strowman and Kevin out, Roode and Finn go 1v1. Roode rams knees into Finn’s arm while referees check on Strowman and Kevin. Finn endures as Roode grinds his own elbow into Finn’s. Roode pulls on the arm, but Finn gets up. Roode wrenches but Finn hits back, repeat. Finn fires more forearms, Roode shoves him and elbows him, but the PELE takes Roode down. Everyone is down all over the arena, while we go picture in picture. Finn and Roode stir in the ring, and head for opposite corners. Finn grits his teeth as he stands up and aims at Roode. Roode stands while we go single picture. Roode runs in but Finn dodges to chop. Finn whips but Roode reverses, only for Finn to run him over.

Finn gets the takedown, double stomps! Roode gets back to a corner, but Finn runs in for another chop. Finn whips Roode corner to corner, but runs into boots. Roode hops up but Finn kicks him down and out! Fans fire up, and Finn builds speed, only to run into Roode’s forearm. Roode hops up again, and hits the GLORIOUS Blockbuster. Cover, TWO! Roode and Finn slowly stand, still no Kevin or Strowman. Roode grabs Finn and brings him up, but Finn small packages, TWO. Finn gets up, Slingblade to Roode! Then the blasting dropkick hits Roode off buckles. Fans fire up and Finn climbs. Finn aims, but Kevin returns to knock him down. Finn stays standing while Kevin climbs, and Finn returns the favor. Fans fire up again as Finn tries, but Roode trips him up! Finn gets crotch’d on the crossbar.

Roode gets himself up, and then climbs to join Finn. He wants the superplex, but Finn resists. Kevin joins in, and makes it a Tower of Doom! But Kevin can’t cover, he’s too exhausted. All three men are down, but Kevin gets moving. Kevin gets himself to a corner, but Strowman is stirring! The Monster stands!? Kevin panics as he watches Strowman lumber his way over. Fans chant “Get These Hands!” but Finn runs to meet Strowman. Strowman rocks Finn with a right, then boots Roode. Kevin sees Strowman is coming for him, and runs away! Kevin goes to the crowd, but he stumbles and falls. Strowman drags Kevin up and back to the ring in a headlock. Strowman roars and clubs Kevin down. But then Strowman sees the others getting up.

Even with bad ribs, Strowman runs Finn over, then runs Roode over. Strowman is still going, and runs Kevin over! He puts Kevin in the ring, those ribs only slowing him down a moment or two. Strowman scoops Kevin but Roode bails him out. They get sandwiched in a corner, but Finn returns and swing kicks Strowman. Finn climbs, stomps to the back! Strowman falls to a knee, but Finn runs out, only to get run over again. Strowman’s ribs are aching, but he’s the only one standing. He hauls Finn up, but Kevin SUPERKICKS! Roode chop blocks, then Kevin SUPERKICKS again. Roode grabs Strowman, but Kevin rolls Roode! TWO, GLORIOUS Spinebuster! Finn hits the elbow drop DDT on Roode! SLINGBLADE to Finn! Finn hits his blasting dropkick! He climbs up! COUP DE GRACE!

Cover, but Roode breaks it. Roode throws Finn sideways into a post, then winds it up… GLORIOUS Pose, to GLORIOUS DDT! Cover, but Kevin breaks it up. Kevin throws Roode way out, then climbs up again. Kevin aims, FROG SPLASH! Cover, TWO?! Kevin cannot believe it. Strowman survives three powerful moves in a row? But fans know “This is Awesome”! Kevin rolls out to fetch a new ladder. He puts it in the ring, and uses it to go after Strowman’s ribs. Strowman somehow stays standing, and then grabs the ladder away from Kevin. He grabs Kevin by the throat, and Kevin shouts “I’m sorry!” as he takes the CHOKE SLAM! Strowman positions the ladder, picks Kevin up, MONSTER SLAM on the ladder! Cover, Strowman wins!

Winner: Strowman, by pinfall

Not even three men allied, using everything they had, was enough to stop this behemoth. Throw in SmackDown’s four, will that be enough to stop Strowman from becoming Mr. MONSTER in the Bank? Or will Strowman #GetTheseHands on the contract and begin the hunt for The Beast?

 


 

My Thoughts:

This here tonight, this is what a go-home for a PPV should be. The opening with everyone on ladders was a little cliche for MITB (or even TLC) but I enjoyed the integration of Mixed Match Challenge for Alexa & Strowman and Finn & Sasha. And while it was confusing as to why Alexa needed an entrance when all four women were already out there, that Fatal 4 opener more than made up for it. All four women shined, and I was happily surprised to see Natalya wins. Between this and Ronda getting one-up on Nia, I wonder if they’ll both win again, and then Natty turns Heel when she cashes in without warning, sparking their feud. Meanwhile, given McIntyre & Ziggler dominating, I those two might just go after all four men  in the title match and get themselves a shot sooner rather than later.

The one low point was Roman VS Mahal advertised for tonight. At first, I was hoping they’d get this match out of the way so more time could be given to the other matches. Instead, Mahal swerves, and will probably just cheat to win on Sunday. The Elias and Rollins segment was great, but I do feel a little bad that all the work that went into that custom paint job is for getting smashed. But in kayfabe, Elias deserved it, and I expect not even being upset will help him win against Rollins. Rollins is going to be on an amazing tear with that IC title this Summer, count on that. The Ronda-Nia face-to-face was great in itself, and with rumors of Rousey not sticking around as long as thought, that might mean she gets the title now just to check it off.

Poor Hawkins, he just can’t catch a break. Since he and now-bald Corbin don’t seem to be doing a program, I have no idea who Hawkins beats to finally break his bad streak. The obstacle course segment for Sami and Lashley was actually pretty good, but of course it was so Sami could attack Lashley. Their match at MITB will still be really great, so luckily there was some coherency to the build before the end. And WOW was the main event tonight worthy of a PPV in itself. The story was all there with Kevin getting the three non-monsters working together, but Strowman looks even stronger after winning. Kevin has a point, though: if Strowman wins MITB and then cashes in on Lesnar, he’s gonna have that belt a long time himself. But at least Strowman will show up every week when he does.

My Score: 8.5/10


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Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (3/28/24)

Look who finally decided to show up!

Published

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Kyle Fletcher returns to ROH TV!

The ROH World Television Champion is finally back to defend his title! Will the Aussie Arrow hit Blake Christian through the All Heart?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Dalton Castle VS Nick Comoroto; wins.
  • Top Flight VS ???
  • Evil Uno VS JD Drake w/ Anthony Henry; wins.
  • Cole Karter & Griff Garrison w/Maria Kanellis VS ???
  • Brandon Cutler & Colt Cabana VS ???
  • Diamante VS Kiera Hogan; wins.
  • Athena VS ???
  • ROH World Television Championship: Kyle Fletcher VS Blake Christian; wins and

PLAY BY PLAY

[Due to scheduling conflicts, coverage will begin later tonight]


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AEW Coverage

Mitchell’s AEW Dynamite Results & Report! (3/27/24)

BRUV! BRUV! BRUV!

Published

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The #BillyGoat and The Wrestler finally meet again!

As AEW prepares for Dynasty, Will Ospreay prepares for Bryan Danielson by taking on the man he just beat, THE Katsuyori Shibata!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Will Ospreay VS Katsuyori Shibata; Ospreay wins.
  • AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals: The Young Bucks VS Private Party; The Bucks win and advance to the semifinals.
  • AEW TBS Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Kris Statlander VS Willow Nightingale VS Skye Blue VS Anna Jay; Willow wins and will challenge Julia Hart for the title.
  • AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals: Orange Cassidy & Trent Beretta VS The Undisputed Kingdom; Cassidy & Trent win and advance to the semifinals.
  • AEW World Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Swerve Strickland VS Konosuke Takeshita; Swerve wins and will challenge Samoa Joe for the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

Will Ospreay VS Katsuyori Shibata!

The Aerial Assassin wants to slay the American Dragon and prove himself the best wrestler alive today! But that means keeping pace with Bryan Danielson while doing things he’s never done before. Ospreay admitted he got “the piss” beat out of him seven years ago, but will he have redemption here tonight? Or is Ospreay still not better than The Wrestler?

The bell rings and the fans fire up already as these two circle. The fans sing “Ospreay~, Ospreay Ospreay Ospreay~! Ospreay~, Ospreay~!” while Ospreay and Shibata feel things out. Shibata avoids Ospreay’s takedown to then waistlock and bring Ospreay around. Ospreay moves, blocks the chinlock, but Shibata just slips around to another waistlock. Shibata gets a top mount and he eggs Ospreay on. They grapple, Shibata finds his way through to go for an arm, ARMBAR! Ospreay gets a ROPEBREAK and Shibata lets off quickly. The fans applaud this opening exchange and start to duel as the two reset.

The two feel things out to a knuckle lock, but then Ospreay kicks low and CLUBS Shibata. Ospreay then snapmares, puts on a chinlock, and he grinds Shibata down. Shibata endures, uses his own leg as a lever and pries the chinlock open. Shibata wrenches to wristlock, but Ospreay spins and breaks to trip Shibata with an ankle pick. Osprey has the toehold but Shibata turns over, uses his leg to reel Ospreay in for a headlock, and then hits the takeover! The fans cheer but Ospreay headscissors. Shibata moves around, pops free, and then stands to kick! Ospreay narrowly avoids it and the fans fire up again!

Ospreay takes a breath and the two reset again. They tie up collar ‘n’ elbow, but Shibata powers Ospreay back to ropes. The ref counts, Ospreay turns things around, but then Ospreay lets off slowly. But then Ospreay CHOPS! Shibata just gets in Ospreay’s face! Shibata knees low, bumps Ospreay off buckles, and he fires off forearms! The fans fire up, Shibata runs corner to corner, but Ospreay SHOTGUNS! The fans fire up and Shibata scrambles to a corner, Ospreay fires forearms on Shibata now, sits Shibata down with them, then fires up to go corner to corner, HYDRAULIC DROPKICK! Ospreay uses Shibata’s won move!

The fans fire up while Shibata bails out, and Ospreay PLANCHAS! Direct hit and down goes Shibata! The fans fire up again, the ring count starts, and Ospreay says, “Yes, bruv!” Ospreay brings Shibata up, CLUBS him and puts him in the ring. But Shibata gets moving, and he BOOTS Ospreay right down! Shibata goes out to fetch Ospreay but Ospreay fires forearms! Shibata just eggs Ospreay on! Ospreay fires more forearms but Shibata backs him down by just stepping forward! Shibata then UPPERCUTS Ospreay, and suplexes Ospreay to the floor! Then he KICKS Ospreay in the back! Ospreay writhes but Shibata leaves him behind.

The fans are torn as Shibata sits cross-legged in the ring while the count climbs. Shibata decides to go back out after Ospreay and put him in the ring. The fans rally and duel, Shibata stomps Ospreay around, then gets the legs to stomp. Shibata steps right through to the FIGURE FOUR! Ospreay blocks the main leg but Shibata powers through! Ospreay sits Shibata up and they start throwing forearms! The leglock is let go so Shibata can CLUB Ospreay! Ospreay CHOPS! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! Shibata fires a forearm, shoots around, SAIDO! Ospreay writhes again and the fans rally up as Dynamite goes picture in picture!

Shibata dusts himself off, drags Ospreay to center, and again steps through, only for Ospreay to again block the main leg! Shibata powers through to have the FIGURE FOUR! Ospreay endures, reaches out, but Shibata puts the pressure on! Ospreay falls back, but that makes this a cover, TWO and Ospreay sits back up! Ospreay works to turn things over but Shibata works to stop him! Ospreay tires again, and again, and he turns the hold over! Now Shibata endures! Shibata turns things right back over, but Ospreay has the ROPEBREAK! Shibata lets the hold go so he can shake out his own legs.

Shibata drops a knee on Ospreay’s knee! Ospreay goes to a corner, Shibata CHOPS! And CHOPS! Ospreay falls to his knees, so Shibata CLUBS him! Ospreay glares at Shibata so Shibata CHOPS and ROCKS him! Ospreay hobbles away, comes back, and he fires a forearm! Shibata eggs him on so Ospreay fires more forearms. Shibata ROCKS Ospreay with one! Ospreay goes to a corner and falls over. Shibata brings Ospreay up, whips him to KNEE him low, then CLUB him down, and KICK him in the back! Shibata KICKS Ospreay again, gives him some scuffing kicks, but now Ospreay sits cross-legged to egg Shibata on!

Shibata kicks, and KICKS, and Ospreay falls over! But then Ospreay gets up in a rage! Ospreay fires forearms, Shibata gives them back, and Ospreay fires a streak of ’em! Shibata ROCKS Ospreay, whips, and Dynamite returns to single picture as Ospreay handsprings and NEURALIZERS! The fans fire up while Ospreay gets up to TOSS Shibata out! Then Ospreay PLANCHAS but Shibata moves! Shibata kicks low, whips Ospreay into the LED barrier, then runs up to BOOT him! The fans fire up as the action comes to them, then Shibata brings Ospreay around. Shibata whips Ospreay back at the LED, but Ospreay leaps up and over!

Shibata runs up but Ospreay ROCKS him back! Ospreay uses the barrier to FLYING FOREARM Shibata down! Ospreay puts Shibata in, aims from the apron, and springboard for PIP PIP CHEERIO! Cover, TWO! Shibata stays in this but he’s dazed. Ospreay brings Shibata up, the fans sing again, but Shibata fights the underhooks. Ospreay fires Kawada Kicks, but Shibata stands. Ospreay CHOPS, but Shibata just gets in Ospreay’s face! Ospreay fires forearms but Shibata again backs Ospreay down by just stepping forward! Ospreay fires forearms again and again, but Shibata DECKS him! Ospreay sits up in a daze, so Shibata whips him and BOOTS him in a corner!

Shibata fires a flurry of forearms, then runs, but Ospreay follows to CHOP! But Shibata fires forearms and an UPPERCUT! Shibata runs, Ospreay follows again, BOOT! But Shibata just comes back with more forearms! Ospreay eggs Shibata on so Shibata CHOPS, JABS and repeat! Then CHOP, CHOP and CHOP! Shibata runs corner to corner to HYDRAULIC DROPKICK! The Wrestler shows Ospreay how that move’s done, and then he hauls Ospreay up. HALF HATCH! Cover, TWO! Ospreay shakes his head, he’s tougher than that! Shibata keeps his cool, he brings Ospreay up, and the fans rally again.

Shibata clamps on but Ospreay fights the cobra twist! Ospreay switches the twist onto Shibata! Shibata endures, switches it right back, but Ospreay fights his way around! Shibata shifts into an IRON OCTOPUS! Ospreay endures, fights his way around, ROPEBREAK! Shibata lets off to KNEE, and GERMAN SUPLEX! Ospreay lands out to SNAP GERMAN! But Shibata’s up to GERMAN SUPLEX! Ospreay avoids the boot to SUPERKICK! Ospreay whips, Shibata reverses but Ospreay handsprings, Shibata blocks the Neuralizer to the STF!! The fans fire up as Ospreay endures and Shibata has a higher angle on the hold! But Ospreay still gets the ROPEBREAK!

Shibata lets go, has Ospreay in a corner, and he brings Ospreay up to ROCK him with a haymaker! And another! The ref counts, Shibata lets off, and Ospreay sneaks up to SLAP! Shibata wobbles, but he CROSS COUNTER! Shibata KICKS Ospreay down, shakes out the stars, then sits Ospreay up so he can PENALTY- NO, Ospreay ducks! But the KICK from behind hits! Shibata runs again, PENALTY- NO, Ospreay blocks it this time! Ospreay stands to fire forearm after forearm, but Shibata ROCKS him! Ospreay shakes his head and fires up, and the fans are with him as he fires forearms! But Shibata ROCKS Ospreay with one!

Ospreay shakes his head, comes back to fire more forearms, but then Shibata ROCKS him again! Ospreay leans on Shibata, so Shibata fires a flurry of forearms! Shibata KICKS Ospreay down, but Ospreay springs up to ENZIGIRI! The fans are thunderous as both men are down! A standing count starts, Ospreay rises and he prepares the elbow! Shibata sits up, but he ducks the Hidden Blade! Shibata also ducks the roundhouse, to have the SLEEPER! Ospreay grits his teeth, reaches out, but Shibata gets that arm, SLEEPER SUPLEX! Ospreay staggers up but into the SLEEPER HOLD! Ospreay is fading already!

The ref checks Ospreay, and the hand drops once! The fans rally, and Ospreay gets a second wind! Ospreay fights up, runs to ropes and he TOSSES Shibata tot he apron! Shibata gets up but Ospreay avoids the shoulder ram to STOMP him! Ospreay then hurries to the corner, springboard, MISSILE DROPKICK! Shibata flops down, Ospreay calls his shot! Springboard, OSCUTTER!! Cover, ONE?!?! Shibata roars and LARIATS!! Cover, ONE?!?! Shibata and Ospreay DOUBLE LARIAT! And DOUBLE LARIAT! SUPERKICK from Ospreay and he calls it again, but Shibata SLEEPERS! Ospreay shifts around to SAIDO!

Shibata gets up, Ospreay runs in, HIDDEN BLADE!! Cover, TWO!?!? Shibata survives but Ospreay brings him in! Underhooks and STORM DRIVER 93!! But Shibata sits up with a roar! Ospreay HIDDEN BLADES!!! Cover, Ospreay wins!!

Winner: Will Ospreay, by pinfall

An instant classic to say the least, these two showed how elite Strong Style can be! But in the end, the Aerial Assassin avenges his defeat seven years ago! Ospreay shows Shibata respect with the deep bow, and Shibata returns it. Ospreay certainly looks ready for Bryan Danielson, but will he be able to slay The American Dragon and establish his Dynasty?

 

AEW takes a closer look at Bryan Danielson.

Excalibur narrates that you can ask any professional wrestler who is the greatest technician of this or any generation, and one name is on the list: Bryan Danielson. This unassuming kid from Aberdeen, Washington who traveled the world to become an all-time wrestling icon began his journey under the tutelage of Shawn Michaels, and The American Dragon was born. He made his name in the independent circuit before landing in ROH, where for nearly a decade, Bryan laid the promotion’s groundwork as a Founding Father of Honor. Bryan would main event from the very first event to winning multiple world championships.

Bryan would also go global with NJPW, and eventually WWE. But at the height of his career, having become one of the most decorated champions in pro-wrestling history, Bryan had what he loved above all else ripped away. Years of sacrifice for the sport that is his life left Bryan medically unable to compete. Yet, through unflinching determination to regain his ultimate passion, Bryan would fight the steepest of odds and make his in-ring return after three years away. And then in 2021, he shocked the world when he made his AEW debut, showing again why he is an all-time great, and testing the limits of his body against the best pro-wrestlers in the world today.

Bryan himself said he “will not go gently into that good night.” If this is his last year, he is calling his shots! This will be the most epic year of his career. And that means checking off the dream match of American Dragon VS Aerial Assassin! Who will prove they are THE best in the world today?

 

Backstage interview with The Young Bucks.

Renee Paquette is with the AEW EVPs, Matthew & Nicholas Jackson. Tonight, they are in action in the AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament against a team that defeated them in the inaugural- Nick gets mad already and claims this is some kind of ambush! Such negativity! Unprofessional, Renee! Is this how she conducts all her other interviews? Where is Alex Marvez? Nick would rather Marvez conduct this interview, he’s also better looking. Matt calms Nick down and says they’ll circle back to that question. What they do want to talk about is that they returned to AEW a couple months ago, with some goals and objectives.

The first one being, well, retiring “Sting’s old ass.” Did that! Second goal: Restructuring The Elite. And how’d they do that? Well, they made some room and brought in The Rainmaker, Kazuchika Okada! By the way, did you see Okada’s big Continental Championship win last week? Holy crap that was awesome! And all on his own. Big surprise to everyone backstage, but of course Okada did that fair and square! Just like The Bucks will win tonight! They asked Rainmaker, come, chill out in the back, they’ve got this. But to the question, the biggest goal, the most important one out of everything, is to get their AEW World Tag Team Championships back.

And Renee mentioned the upset last time that ruined Matt’s entire life for an entire year. What do you do to right that wrong? You beat them back! You beat Private Party! See, lightning never strikes twice! And The Bucks will be one step closer to getting their titles back. Let’s have a great show, Renee’s doing awesome, fist bump. But one note: Maybe try smiling more. That’s all. Matt heads out and Nick still prefers Marvez. But will The Bucks really make up for the past? Or will history simply repeat itself?

 

Kazuchika Okada arrives in style!

Still driving the red Ferrari, the NEW Continental Champion is here to watch his pals in action.

 

AEW Double or Nothing is returning to Las Vegas!

Five years running, the AEW Memorial Day weekend tradition returns to Sin City and the MGM Grand! Tickets on sale this Saturday, 10 AM Pacific!

 

AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals: The Young Bucks VS Private Party!

We just heard from The Bucks about their goals for 2024, but they may have misinterpreted how things went down with Sting at Revolution. Will they make no mistake and come through on this match? Or will Isiah Kassidy & Marq Quen be the one getting their shot (shot shot) at the semifinals?

The teams sort out and Matt starts against Kassidy. The fans rally up while Matt offers a fist bump. Kassidy slaps that away and gets in Matt’s face! Matt pie faces Kassidy, so Kassidy pie faces back! They pie face more, then Matt kicks low! Matt whips, Kassidy rolls Matt up, TWO! Matt runs up, into another roll up, with bridge! TWO, and Matt CLOBBERS Kassidy! The fans boo but Matt brings Kassidy around. Tag to Nick and they mug Kassidy. The Bucks then double whip, but Quen tags in! Kassidy gets Matt, Quen sunset flips Nick, stereo covers! TWO!! The Bucks escape, then block kicks from Private Party.

Matt and Nick trade who has who, then they FLIP them both! Quen & Kassidy both land out, to SUPERKICK the Bucks! The fans fire up while the Bucks bail out, and Private Party builds speed! They DOUBLE DIVE and take The Bucks down! The fans fire up as Kassidy rains down fists on Matt! Quen & Kassidy bring Nick around to put him in the ring. Quen whips but Matt reverses, Quen gets sent over the barriers! Matt kicks Kassidy, whips him, but Quen helps Kassidy SILLY STRING to the floor! The fans fire up but Nick PENALTY KICKS Kassidy from the apron! Nick hurries but Quen meets him on the barrier!

Nick and Quen brawl, Nick pokes Quen in the eye! Nick then brings Quen up to SUPER FALCON ARROW to the floor! The fans lose their minds, The Bucks hurry back into the ring, and they want a count out! Quen writhes, we watch Okada approving backstage, and we pass 5 of 10! Kassidy hurries to get Quen up, but we’re past 7! 8! Quen flops in at 9! Nick stomps Quen around, then tags in Matt. The Bucks drag Quen up to double whip to ropes. But Quen ducks the double elbows to shove Nick into Matt! But Nick kicks low, and he suplexes Quen onto Matt’s knees! Then Nick BLASTS Kassidy down!

The Bucks soak up the heat from Quebec City, and then regroup as Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Matt paces around, stomps Quen, then CLUBS him down. Matt CLUBS Quen again, then pushes him to the ropes. Matt jumps to STOMP Quen down! The ref counts, Matt lets off and brings Quen up. Matt whips Quen to the corner hard and Quen bounces off buckles. Matt swaggers up, Nick soaks up heat from the fans, and Matt brings Quen around to scoop and SLAM! Tag to Nick and he slingshot SENTONS! Nick then runs to KNEE Quen in the back! Nick throws in KNEE after KNEE, then stares Kassidy down. The ref keeps Kassidy back, and Nick CHOKES Quen on the ropes! The ref misses all this because he’s arguing with Kassidy!

The ref finally looks over and Nick lets off, then they argue and that allows Matt to scuff Quen. Nick tags Matt in, they get Quen up and whip, but Quen reverses to send Nick to the corner! Nick goes up and over, Matt runs in but Quen ELBOWS him! Nick returns, he’s put on the apron. Quen runs up but Matt scoops! BACKBREAKER, and Nick slingshot LEG DROPS! The Bucks soak up more heat, Matt covers, Kassidy breaks it! Nick kicks Kassidy and TOSSES him out! Nick then goes out to reel Kassidy in! APRON POWERBOMB! Kassidy writhes while Nick soaks up more heat. But Quen throws body shots on Matt!

Matt CLUBS Quen, then brings him around for a chinlock. Quen endures, even as Matt leans on him, and Quen throws body shots. Dynamite returns to single picture as Matt trips Quen and CATAPULTS him into a GAMANGIRI! Nick goes up while Quen falls back, but Kassidy hurries over to SHOVE Nick down! The fans fire up, Matt rushes Kassidy but gets a HOTSHOT STUNNER for it! Quen runs up to SIDE EFFECT! The fans fire up and rally as Quen crawls, hot tag to Brother Zay! Kassidy dodges Matt, to HOTSHOT STUNNER Nick! Kassidy CLOBBERS Matt, CLOBBERS him again, then whips him to ropes.

Matt reverses, Kassidy slides out and avoids Nick, but is put back on the apron! Kassidy RAMS into Matt, mule kicks Nick, GAMANGIRIS Matt, then blows a kiss before he ASAI MOONSAULTS Nick down! The fans are thunderous as Kassidy gets back up to springboard and CROSSBODY onto Matt! Cover, TWO!! Matt survives and Kassidy is surprised! Quebec rallies for Private Party as Kassidy stalks Matt. Kassidy says “DELETE! DELETE!” and Matt stands, into the kick! TWIST OF- NO, Matt shoves Kassidy away, and Nick trips him up! Matt CLOBBERS Kassidy while fans boo. Matt drags Kassidy up and he tags in Nick.

The Bucks put Kassidy up top, CLUB him, and then climb up after him. Matt has the cravat, Nick is underneath, SLICED BREAD BOMB!! Cover, QUEN BREAKS IT! The fans fire up, Matt runs back in, but Quen dodges to PELE! Matt falls, flounders his way over to Nick, and Quen drags Kassidy to the Private Party corner. The fans rally, Kassidy reaches up, tag to Quen! Nick runs up, Quen fires forearms on him, on Matt, and back again! The fans rally but Matt kicks low. Matt scoops, Quen slips free, but Nick CLUBS Quen in the back, to GERMAN SUPLEX! Quen flounders to an apron and Nick goes out after him.

Nick stomps Quen, drags him up, and APRON GERMAN SUPLEXES!! Quen writhes, Nick puts him in, and tag to Matt. Matt says this is it! Nick goes up, Matt brings Quen up for the scoop, but Kassidy anchors Nick! Quen victory rolls, TWO!!! That was what got The Bucks last time but they managed to escape! Nick kicks Kassidy away, Matt ROCKS Quen, then CLUBS him again and again! Matt brings Quen around, Nick stands back up. Fireman’s carry, but Quen slips free to shove Matt into Nick! Kassidy gets in, Quen goes up to RANA, GIN ‘N’ JUICE!! Nick flounders out of the ring but Quen tags Kassidy.

Private Party gets Matt up, and they’re going to steal MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!! Cover, NICK BREAKS IT! The fans boo as Nick hammers away on Kassidy! Nick points to someone, goes out of the ring, and he grabs the ring bell!? The fans boo as Nick is abusing his EVP power! But the ref grabs the bell from Nick! Kassidy LARIATS Nick, but Matt LOW BLOWS Kassidy! There goes fair and square! But wait, Quen has one of the title belts!! BELT SHOT!!! The fans fire up as Matt tastes karma! Cover, Nick helps with the ROPEBREAK!! Nick grins as he gets away with that one but Private Party cannot believe this!

Kassidy drags Matt over, he tags Quen, and Quen goes up. 630 SENTON FLOPS as Matt moves!!! Matt hurries to tag Nick, they get Quen up, for E V P TRIGGER!!! It wasn’t the cleanest but it was effective! Cover, The Bucks win!

Winners: The Young Bucks, by pinfall (advance to the semifinals)

Okada again nods his approval. The Rainmaker has a title, is it only a matter of time before Matthew & Nicholas join him?

 

BREAKING NEWS for Collision!

For starters, it’s back! Live this Saturday, 8 PM Eastern, and with the other AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals! The Infantry overcame The House of Black with help from Mark Briscoe, but now they’re looking to say yeah to beating FTR! Will Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo be marching into the semifinals? Or will Dax & Cash prove they’re still Top Guys? And in their big return to action (no pun intended), Ricky Starks & “Big Bill” Morrissey take on Top Flight’s Dante & Darius Martin! Will this tournament soon be Absolute? Or will Angel Dorado & Air Wolf book themselves a flight to the semifinals?

 

Don Callis speaks.

“Tonight, Swerve’s House comes tumbling down. A tornado known as The Alpha, Konosuke Takeshita, is coming. Swerve, our résumé is very clear: We beat Kenny Omega not once but twice; we destroyed Chris Jericho; we destroyed Darby Allin. You wanna bring Prince Nana and the little back-up dance, you go right ahead. You are standing between us and what we want. I am so sick of hearing about Swerve’s House, this little fantasy you’ve constructed for yourself, because you see, your house is on my street. Your house is in the Don Callis Family’s neighborhood. And all those houses are mine. I take what I want, and then I take a little more.

“And tonight, Takeshita is gonna take everything from you, including your opportunity to become the #1 contender. Tonight, the Alpha burns it all down.” Callis has promised big things, but will Takeshita live up to these great expectations?

 

Mercedes Mone arrives backstage!

The CEO arrives in style, struts her way to gorilla, and is going to join commentary for this star-studded #1 contender’s match in the women’s division!

 

AEW hears from Darby Allin.

He’s hanging out with THE Tony Hawk pro-skater, and notes that originally, he was hoping to climb Mount Everest right about now for Tony’s charity, The Skatepark Project, but uh… broke his foot. So does Tony wanna tell us about the project? Of course. This is a foundation to bring public skate parks to underserved areas, operating for over 20 years now. They’ve funded the creation of almost NINE HUNDRED skate parks in that time, and it is important to Tony because it was never lost on him how lucky he was to have a skatepark to go to as a kid. It was his place of belonging and community, where he cut his teeth, and he wants to give that same access to skater kids all over the world.

Darby adds that he wouldn’t be here without skateboarding, so this cause means the world to him. If you wanna donate, just go to Skatepark.org to help out. Darby can’t climb a mountain, but this is Plan B. Darby lets his foot be part of Tony’s handstand grab in the halfpipe! We wish Darby a speedy recovery, and we hope the Skatepark Project has even greater success.

 

Backstage interview with Hook and Chris Jericho.

Renee is with the FTW Champion and The Ocho, and first congratulates Hook on that big win over Jericho last week. Renee brings up Jericho having a proposition for Hook, so what is up? Jericho says what’s up is that a few weeks ago, he said he wanted to see what it was like to face Hook 1v1, to see if Hook is as good as the people say. And after having that match, Hook exceeded expectations. Right out of the gate, he suplexed Jericho right on his head and he didn’t let off. Hook got his first pinfall win, and off Jericho, and Jericho is okay with that. Jericho is proud of Hook, because he saw some things he never had before.

Jericho’s never had a wrestling school, never managed anyone, but he’s also never been in the ring with someone like Hook. Hook’s skills are so highly tuned yet still raw. So Jericho wants to say that after 33 years in the business, if Hook wants any advice from Jericho, Jericho will gladly help sharpen Hook’s skills so he can be the world champion Jericho knows Hook can be. So like he said, if Hook wants his advice, Jericho is here for him. Hook appreciates the praise, and of course he’ll take that advice. He’s Chris Jericho. But being Chris Jericho, Hook knows who Jericho is. Okay, that’s fair. And Jericho knows who Hook is, and more importantly, who Hook can be.

Jericho offers a fist bump, Hook accepts, and Hook says, “Let’s get it.” Jericho says yeah, let’s get it, and he also fist bumps Renee. With The Wizard now his mentor, is it only a matter of time before the Cold Hearted Handsome Devil goes for the top prize in AEW?

 

Mercedes Mone makes her entrance!

The fans chant for the “C E O! C E O!” as she struts down to join commentary. We’re about to see the Galaxy’s Greatest, the Babe with the Power, Chicago Skye and the Star of the Show battle it out, who wins their shot at the Princess of the Black Throne?

AEW TBS Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Kris Statlander VS Willow Nightingale VS Skye Blue VS Anna Jay!

The bell rings and Skye SUPERKICKS Kris! Willow LARIATS Skye! Anna rolls Willow up, TWO! Willow swings, but Anna wrenches to HOOK KICK! Anna whips, Willow reverses, but Anna uses that to LEG LARIAT Skye off the apron and onto Kris! Willow runs up but into a BOOT! Anna runs in to ELBOW Willow in the corner, ROCK her, then whip. Willow reverses, then fires up before she runs in, back body block! And clothesline! Snapmare, then BOOT! The fans rally, Willow runs, and she SPLASHES! Cover, TWO! Skye runs in to CLUB away on Willow, then bumps her off buckles. Skye stomps away in the corner but fans boo.

Willow elbows Skye but Skye CLUBS Willow then digs her boot in! Willow powers out of that, but Skye storms after Willow. Skye tries to suplex but Willow’s too strong! Willow wrenches out, but Skye kicks low. Skye then DDTS Willow down! Willow flounders, Skye hurries to cover, but Kris breaks it! Kris hauls Skye up to scoop and SLAM! Kris runs to SLIDING LARIAT! Anna adds a BASEMENT BLOCKBUSTER on Skye! Kris SLIDING LARIATS Anna! Cover, TWO! Kris scoops, Anna slips free and shoves, then follows, but Kris runs her over! The fans fire up as Kris flexes, and she gets Anna up. Kris runs, but Skye tirps her!

Skye spins Kris around to SUPERKICK! Willow POUNCES Skye, PERIOD! The fans fire up and Stokely Hathaway loves it! Willow tells Mone to remember that one, but the fans chant “C E O! C E O!” while Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Willow goes back tot he ring, but Anna HOTSHOTS her down! Anna tells Mone to watch her, but Kris trips Anna up! Kris throws hands and CLOBBERS Anna, then CHOPS her against the apron! Anna crawls away, Kris kicks her in the butt! Kris goes for Skye but Skye ROCKS her first! Skye CLUBS Kris, stalks her, but Kris hits back with body shots. Willow CLUBS Anna around the way, stomps her down, but Skye looms over Kris. Skye drags Kris up while Willow keeps on Anna. Skye SMACKS Kris off steps, and Willow scoop SLAMS Anna! Kris hits Skye back, CHOPS her against barriers, then keeps after her.

Anna SMACKS Willow off steps, CLUBS her, and Kris DECKS Skye! The fans fire up for Kris while Willow kicks Anna in return. Stokely coaches on his ladies, but Skye SUPERKICKS Kris! Anna and Skye mug Willow, then bring her up to double whip hard into the LED barrier! Willow writhes, but Kris DOUBLE SPEARS Anna and Skye! Kris puts Skye in, covers, TWO! Skye survives but Kris drags her back up. Kris CLUBS Skye, kicks, but Skye blocks to KNEE! That looks like something Mone does! Skye reels Kris in to SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Skye then runs, but Willow is up to SPINEBUSTER her down!

Willow sees Anna run up and takes a swing, but Anna catches her for a COMPLETE SHOT! Kris is back, and she DISCUS LARIATS Anna! All four women are down and even Mone is loving it. Dynamite returns to single picture as the four meet at center. Anna trades forearms with Kris while Skye trades shots with Willow. They go back and forth, stand back up, and the forearms fly harder! Willow and Anna ROCK Kris and Skye, then Anna BOOTS Willow! Skye runs to BOOT WASH Willow outta the ring! Kris runs in, Anna dodges but Skye blocks to send the arm into Anna anyway! But Kris still ROCKS Skye!

Kris CHOPS Anna, ROCKS Skye, repeat! Then ROUNDHOUSE for Anna! Skye is in a corner, Kris UPPERCUTS her! Kris reels Skye in, FISHERMAN BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Skye survives and Mone can’t help but love it. Kris kicks Skye away, drags Anna to the drop zone, then climbs up. But Anna ROCKS Kris first! Anna goes up after Kris, CLUBS away on her, and she SUPERPLEXES! Cover, Willow SENTONS them both!! The fans fire up, Skye blocks Willow to again Mone Knee! Skye tries to fireman’s carry but Willow fires elbows! Willow gut wrenches, BABE WITH THE POWER- RANA!! Cover, TWO!!

Willow stands, into a SUPERKICK! Skye runs, hops on, CODE BLUE!! Cover, KRIS BREAKS IT!! Kris saves her friend but also the match! Kris gets Skye up, POWER BREAKER!! Skye flounders away, Kris drags her back, but Anna hooks Kris into the Gory Especial! GORY BOMB onto Skye! Anna double covers, TWO!! Anna snarls, she drags Kris up by her hair, and she clamps on the QUEENSLAYER! But Kris powers out, and feeds Anna to Willow’s SHOTGUN! But now, Kris and Willow are the two standing tall. Willow says let’s do this, pal! Kris says okay, but then Skye LARIATS them both! No effect!

Kris & Willow kick Skye, whip her, but Skye ducks to send Willow into Kris! Then she SUPERKICKS, whips, but Willow reverses! Willow runs in but Skye dodges! Skye ROCKS Willow, but Willow comes back! Skye BOOTS Willow in the ropes, brings her to the apron, and full nelsons! Willow fights free, fireman’s carries, and APRON DEATH VALLEY DRIVERS!! Skye flops down, Mone’s jaw drops just like Quebec’s! Willow high fives the fans but Anna brawls with Kris! Anna clinches, Kris fights free and gut wrenches! The tuck and- VICTORY ROLL! TWO!! Anna hurries up, but Kris gets around! Anna tosses Kris out, to LEG LARIAT!

But Willow is back in, to gut wrench and BABE WITH THE POWER BOMB!!! Cover, Willow wins!!

Winner: Willow Nightingale, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the AEW TBS Championship)

Mone says alright, she accepts Willow’s that good. But wait! JULIA HART runs in to BELT SHOT Willow from behind!! The fans boo but the Princess grins as she holds up the title. Then she glares at Mone over at the desk. Mone stands and walks right up to the ring. Julia holds the title up at Mone, then runs away before Kris can get her! Willow is still getting her shot at Dynasty, will she add that TBS Championship to her list of accolades? Or will the House Always Win?

 

Backstage interview with Dustin Rhodes.

Renee is with The Natural, and says he is currently 3-1 in 2024. Every time he steps back inside the ring, he reminds us all just how much of a badass he is. What is next for Dustin? He does feel he’s started 2024 with a bang. “Everybody on this roster is very, very talented. Every single match I’ve had here in five years has been really, really good. Bangers, all of ’em. Nothing’s different. Surprisingly, right now, at 55 years old, I’m still as passionate as I have ever been.” But then in steps The Butcher, belittling what Dustin is saying. Well what does Butcher want? He heard Dustin wants a fight. Oof, Butcher, your breath…

Butcher says it’s his mustache, it has its own musk. But look him in the eyes. Dustin wants a match? Remember that Bunkhouse Match? Oh yeah he does. Then how about Friday on Rampage, Dustin and Butcher cash some receipts? Oh, Butcher wants receipts? He thinks Dustin’s just some stepping stone? Oh absolutely. Well, if you want it, then you got it. Friday Night Rampage it is! But just remember this: You’re gonna find out why Dustin is The Natural Born Legend. Everyone loves Dustin, even Canada. Butcher can’t wait. This is gonna be quite the shootout, but will it be a good Friday for the living legend?

 

“Timeless” Toni Storm visited Turner Classic Movies!

Ben Mankiewicz introduces himself and then congratulates Toni Storm for not only being AEW Women’s World Champion, but also for “helping redefine the artistry of professional wrestling.” Toni says that’s so sweet. And she congratulates Ben on… whatever it is he does around TCM. One small note, though: crispen your annunciation. No one says “crispen” in America really, but sure, he’ll work on it. Now repeat after her. Chin up. Chin up. Tits out. Uh, no, he won’t say that. And watch for the shoe~! What? She tosses her shoe over her shoulder as she leaves, and now he understands. But will AEW’s leading lady continue to be a modern classic even through Dynasty?

 

Swerve Strickland speaks.

“Tonight comes down to Swerve and Takeshita, to be ranked number one. Now we all know, to be truly number one in the pro-wrestling industry, you gotta hold the AEW World Championship gold. And that is Samoa Joe. Takeshita, you’ve been probably one of the best competitors I’ve ever seen over the last couple months. You’ve been doing your thing. But our motivation’s been vastly different. Mine is for something bigger than me, and that’s history. I’m not taking this lightly. So Takeshita, after I get past you, it’s me and Samoa Joe, one on one, no distractions.”

Swerve then tells Joe, “I didn’t forget what you did to me. And when I finally get you one on one for that championship, you’ll never forget what I do to you.” Swerve’s House is ready, but will this soon be Swerve’s Dynasty?

 

AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals: Orange Cassidy & Trent Beretta VS The Undisputed Kingdom!

While Roderick Strong took away the AEW International Championship, Freshly Squeezed and his Best Friends feel stopping Matt Taven & Mike Bennett from getting more tag titles is fitting revenge. Will Cassidy & #JustTrent do whatever it takes to be avenged? Or will there only be more gold in the Kingdom’s future?

The teams sort out and Trent starts against Bennett. The bell rings, the two circle, but then Cassidy steps in? Cassidy says it’s okay, just hold on. He walks over and DECKS Taven! The fans fire up as Cassidy goes out after Taven, and Trent fires off on Bennett in a corner! Trent stomps away, Cassidy ROCKS Taven, then ROCKS him again! Trent keeps after Bennett, whips him to ropes but Bennett reverses to CLOBBER him! Taven turns things around on Cassidy to whip him into steel steps! Bennett whips Trent, Trent ducks and DIVES onto Taven! The fans fire up and Trent stands Taven up, but Bennett FLIES out onto them both!

The fans fire up as Cassidy climbs! Cassidy waves hi, then SUPER TRUST FALLS onto The Kingdom! The fans are thunderous as Best Friends shake hands! Trent gets Bennett in, Chuckie T gives him a supportive butt pat, and Trent storms into the ring. Bennett kicks low, CHOPS, then bumps Trent off buckles. Tag to Taven, The Kingdom stomps and mugs Trent, but the fans rally for Best Friends. Taven whips, Trent reverses but Taven goes up and over. Taven then dodges Trent to DROPKICK him down! Bennett cheers as Taven BLASTS Cassidy off the apron! The fans boo but Trent gets Taven for a GERMAN SUPLEX!

Trent GERMAN SUPLEXES again, but Taven throws elbows to fight the hattrick. Taven powers Trent into the corner, tags Bennett, and they mug Trent. Trent fights back with forearms and elbows, but Tavne CLAWS Trent’s eyes! The Kingdom double whips, but Trent holds ropes! Trent BOOTS Taven, dodges Bennett then drops down to STANDING METEORA! Taven mule kicks Trent then SUPERKICKS him down! Cassidy protests, the ref has him stay back, but the ref misses Bennett bring Trent to the apron! APRON PILEDRIVER!! Bennett scurries away and Roddy applauds as Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Roddy applauds, but Bennett talks smack on the fans in the front row. Bennett brings Trent up to then rebound and BOSTON BAYONET! Down goes Trent, but Bennett brings him back up and in. Cover, TWO! Trent stays in this but Bennett stays on him with a hard whip to the corner! Tag to Taven and then Bennett whips Trent back in for the BOOT! Trent goes up to MISSILE DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Taven is annoyed with Trent’s toughness but he clamps on a chinlock. Trent endures as Taven leans on him, and then Bennett mocks Cassidy putting hands up. But instead of putting his hands into imaginary pockets, Bennett just flips everyone off.

The fans rally, Trent fights up and he throws body shots. Taven ENZIGIRIS Trent in return! Tag to Bennett and he runs up to basement BOOT! Cover, TWO! The Kingdom is frustrated but Cassidy coaches Trent up. Bennett brings Trent around to stomp him down, then eggs him on. Bennet SLAMS Trent’s arm off the mat, then stands Trent up for a snap suplex! Cover, TWO! Trent is tougher than that so Bennett tags Taven. Taven goes up and soaks up some heat, only for Trent to get up and bring him down into a SAIDO! Both men are down, Bennett is upset but Cassidy is fired up. Hot tag to Bennett, and he stops Trent from reaching Cassidy!

Dynamite returns to single picture as Bennett CATAPULTS Trent into a ROUNDHOUSE! Trent falls back, Taven goes up, ELBOW DROP! High stack, TWO! Trent is showing that grit but Bennett talks trash on Cassidy. Tag to Taven, The Kingdom whips to SPIENBUSTER and LIONSAULT, onto knees! Trent saves himself, hurries over, hot tags to Bennett and Cassidy! Cassidy bumps Bennett off buckles, goes up top, and CROSSBODIES! Then he runs at Taven, only to be put on the apron. Cassidy bumps Taven off buckles, goes up top again, and he CROSSBODIES Taven now! Cassidy keeps moving, ducks ‘n’ dodges Bennett to tilt-o-whirl, but Bennett stops it!

Bennett suplexes Cassidy, only to get STUN DOG MILLIONAIRE! But JUST THE TIP of the knee from Taven! Bennett gets Cassidy up, Taven is in the opposite corner, and they hit the PROTON PACK! Cover, TWO!! Cassidy survives and the fans fire up again! Chuck rallies Quebec but The Kingdom reset. Taven climbs, Bennett reels Cassidy in, but Trent SHOVES Taven down! Trent climbs, Cassidy turns things around on Bennett! STRONG ZERO BEACH BREAK!! Cover, TWO!!! Bennett survives #BeachZero but the fans rally up again. Cassidy drags Bennett up, tags Trent, and now Trent brings Bennett up.

But Taven SUPERKCIKS Trent! Cassidy leaps, Taven gets under, but Trent just uses that to TORNADO DDT! Cassidy tilt-o-whirl DDTS! Then BUSAIKU KNEE! The fans fire up as Trent and Cassidy… get distracted by Roddy holding up the International title! But then Chuck YANKS Roddy down! So Roddy DECKS the Kentucky Gentleman! Cassidy chases Roddy all around, Roddy drops the belt and Cassidy DIVES out onto him! Trent runs up on Bennett but runs into a kick! Bennett reels Trent in, but while the ref’s checking on Cassidy, Chuck TRIPS Taven! Trent trips Bennett, jackknife bridge, BEST FRIENDS WIN!!

Winners: Orange Cassidy & Trent Beretta (advance to the semifinals)

Turns out, two can play at the numbers game! Or is it six? Whatever! Best Friends are facing Young Bucks, making the semifinals that much bigger for both teams! Oh wait, Best Friends HUG, only for the Bucks to interrupt! Matthew & Nicholas are making sure everyone remembers the EVPs still have the power. But apparently not the power to make the Codyvator- er, EVP Lift, go any faster. Will Cassidy & Trent make the inaugural Dynasty PPV Freshly Squeezed? Or will the Bucks prove blood is thicker than Orange Punch?

 

Backstage interview with Kyle O’Reilly.

Renee is now with #CombatKyle and congratulates him on his big return win a couple weeks ago on Collision. How did it feel to finally be back in that ring? Kyle says you can prepare yourself mentally and physically, but there’s no way to get ready for what it’s actually like to get in that ring in front of a live crowd and pull it off. It felt good to rip the Band-aid off, it really did. But it is a deep, deep roster here in AEW, and there is no such thing as an easy match. True, so let’s talk Undisputed Kingdom. They came out there to celebrate with him, is he having any second thoughts on doing this alone?

Kyle says he loves those guys, but no, no regrets. He did it on his own in his return, he’ll do it on his own this week. Collision in London, Ontario, Kyle proves he belongs. Kyle is ready to chase the dragon, but will he be able to keep this going all on his own?

 

Adam “Edge” Copeland speaks.

The Rated R Superstar was backstage after Dynamite last week, and he said, “When you decide to dedicate your life to this, you dream of nights like this. Your hometown, against a man that you’ve known for 40 years, to hear that audience, to hear them sing my music to me. It’s one of those nights that I’ll take with me to the grave.” Edge is sore, bloody, but he got the TNT Championship. This feels like the first time he’s properly won a title since 2011. “Tonight, it felt like that chapter closed. That 40 year story is closed. It’s time to move on. It’s time for me to defend this TNT Championship. Collision, London, the Cope Open’s back.

“To anybody who wants to step up, feel free. There’s more at stake now, too, and I don’t plan on losing it any time soon.” Collision is about to get Rated R in its return, who looks to go toe to toe with the NEW Face of TNT?

 

MORE breaking news for Collision!

On top of the AEW World Tag Team Championship tournament, on top of The Cope Open, there will be a BIG Six Man Tag! Lance Archer & The Righteous tried to tear down the Swiss Superman, but now he’s got back-up! Bryan Danielson & Katsuyori Shibata are teaming with Claudio Castagnoli to take the fight to Vincent, Dutch & the Murderhawk Monster! Will this Collision prove #EverybodyDies? Or will The Wrestler make a great fit alongside the Blackpool Combat Club?

 

AEW World Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Swerve Strickland w/ Prince Nana VS Konosuke Takeshita w/ Don Callis!

We have heard from The Realest, and we heard from the head of the Don Callis Family. The time for talk is over, only actions can prove your worth! There can be only one, so who will be THE ONE that faces Samoa Joe in St. Louis?

The bell rings and of course Callis joins commentary, saying the French Canadians are outta control. Nana gets everyone chanting, “Whose House?” “SWERVE’S HOUSE!” as Swerve and Takeshita circle. They stare down, and Swerve surprisingly offers a handshake. Takeshita surprisingly takes it, but then neither man lets go. They use that as part of the grapple, and they move around to find openings. Swerve steps over, headlocks, but Takeshita wrenches out. Takeshita grinds the shoulder, Swerve trips Takeshita and has the leg, and then floats to headlock. Takeshita slips out the back to waistlock.

Takeshita shoots the half nelson for the cover, ONE as Swerve goes Matrix! The fans applaud the exchange as the two reset. Callis admits Swerve is a great athlete with sneaky strength, but Takeshita is still the best rope to rope wrestler in the company. The two tie up, Swerve headlocks, but Takeshita knuckle locks through to power up and put Swerve on the ropes. Takeshita lets off slowly, but then lands a cheap shot! The ref reprimands, Takeshita whips, but Swerve flips up and around and stares Takeshita down! Takeshita runs in, Swerve sunset flips, but Takeshita stays up. Swerve goes Matrix again to avoid the fist drop, and he rolls Takeshita up, TWO!

Swerve doesn’t let Takeshita go far, he floats around and rolls him for a short arm scissor! Takeshita hurries to the ROPEBREAK! Swerve lets go quickly and Callis admits Swerve has incredibly smooth transitions. The fans rally up, Takeshita rushes in but Swerve dodges to mule kick! Swerve whips Takeshita, Takeshita ducks ‘n’ dodges to TAKESHITA LINE! The fans are torn but Takeshita soaks up the heat. Swerve checks his jaw, and we see Samoa Joe watching backstage. Is Joe upset Swerve is struggling or angrily hoping Swerve loses? Takeshita storms up on Swerve, ROCKS him, then has him in a corner.

Takeshita digs boots in, the ref counts, and Swerve does his best to kick at Takeshita, but Takeshita lets off with a stomp. Takeshita whips, Swerve reverses and UPPERCUTS! Swerve then snapmares Takeshita to go up and FALLING UPPERCUT! The fans fire up and Swerve hits the Griddy! Callis says Swerve needs to learn, you don’t pander to the fans! Swerve drops a knee on Takeshita’s face, then clamps on with a chinlock. Takeshita fights up quickly but Swerve throws body shots. Swerve puts Takeshita in ropes, fires more body shots, then turns him for a NECKBREAKER HOTSHOT!

Takeshita writhes and flops to the apron while the fans rally up. Swerve drags Takeshita in, kneels on the cover, TWO! Swerve keeps cool and drags Takeshita up. Takeshita fires a forearm! Swerve gives it back, Takeshita gives another, and Swerve throws another! Takeshita grabs Swerve by the hair to Muay Thai KNEE him! Takeshita kicks, Swerve blocks, and Swerve slips around to clinch and BACKBREAKER! Swerve rolls into the facelock, but Takeshita suplexes first! BRAINBUSTER! Takeshita snarls while fans boo, and Swerve goes to a corner. The ref checks Swerve, Swerve says he’s fine but hard to say, and Takeshita storms over.

Takeshita brushes the ref aside, puts Swerve in a corner and he rains down forearms! Callis likes what he sees as Takeshita grinds the forearm in Swerve’s face. The ref counts, Takeshita lets off at 4, and Swerve clutches a shoulder. Takeshita drags Swerve up, ROCKS him, and Swerve leans against ropes to stay up. Takeshita stands Swerve up to ROCK him again, but Swerve SLAPS back! Takeshita fires a flurry of forearms, then runs in, only for Swerve to sidestep! SNAP GERMAN! But Takeshita’s right up to DECK Swerve! Swerve flops out of the ring and Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Takeshita shakes out his arms and scowls while the ring count climbs. Swerve is still down at 4 of 10 but Nana slaps the steps to rally the fans. Takeshita goes out to fetch Swerve, and he hammerlocks the bad arm to POST it! Swerve falls in a heap and Takeshita storms up on him, but the ref says to get this back in the ring. Takeshita drags Swerve up, puts him in the ring, then has Swerve under the ropes for the ROPE GUILLOTINE! Swerve sputters, goes to a corner, but he scowls as he works on the bad arm. Takeshita paces, Swerve turns around, into a HELLUVA KICK! Takeshita hauls Swerve up to scoop and SLAM!

Takeshita goes up the corner, soaks up the heat, and then SUPER SENTONS! Kneeling cover, TWO! Takeshita gives Swerve a taste of what he did earlier, but then drags him into a chinlock. Takeshita grinds Swerve down, even steps over to trap a leg, but Swerve still endures. Swerve reaches out, but then Takeshita pushes him down for a NECK TWIST! Takeshita then goes back for the chinlock, adding a rear mount for more leverage. Swerve still endures and Dynamite returns to single picture. The fans rally up, Swerve fights to his feet, but Takeshita pulls hair to wrangle Swerve back down! So Swerve twists Takeshita’s nose!

The fans rally, the ref reprimands both guys, so Swerve lets go to CHOP! Takeshita winds up to ROCK Swerve! Swerve ROCKS Takeshita, they go back and forth faster and faster! Takeshita winds up to ROCK Swerve again! Swerve leans on ropes again, Takeshita runs in, but Swerve TOSSES Takeshita up and out! Swerve then builds speed, and HANDSPRING RANAS! Swerve still managed that move even with the bad arm, and he puts Takeshita back in. Swerve goes up, Takeshita turns around, CROSSBODY! Cover, ONE!! Callis says that sends a message there, and Swerve definitely looks frustrated.

Swerve goes back to Takeshita to drag him up and fire fast hands! And even some kicks! Swerve winds up, but the bad shoulder holds him back! Takeshita DECKS Swerve again!! The ref checks Swerve as Swerve is in a daze, and Callis says to just call it now. But also, Callis wants Takeshita to show no mercy! Takeshita runs up, Swerve ducks the lariat! Swerve waistlocks, Takeshita switches and shoves Swerve to the apron, then Takeshita runs up. Swerve RAMS into Takeshita, but the shoulder hurts more! Swerve still goes up and over to get in, somersault, but into the fireman’s carry! LANDSLIDE! SHOTGUN BOOT!

Swerve tumbles out, the fans boo Takeshita as he builds speed, but Takeshita FLIES! Direct hit at the ramp and the fans can’t help but fire up! Takeshita hopes Joe saw that, and the fans rally for “A E DUB! A E DUB!” Takeshita drags Swerve up and around to go up the steel steps and to the apron. Takeshita grins as he steps back in with Swerve, and then Takeshita goes up the corner. Takeshita drags Swerve up and he wants to repeat Revolution! But Swerve throws hands to fight that off, and he then SLAPS Takeshita! And SLAPS! And SLAPS! Takeshita HEADBUTTS Swerve down! But Swerve takes out the legs!

Takeshita is stuck in the ropes, for the BOOT and DRAPING DDT!! Swerve goes up the corner, Callis is concerned but Takeshita stirs. Swerve aims to SKY TWISTER! Cover, TWO!! Takeshita survives and Swerve is frustrated again! Nana says he was close, and the fans know “This is Awesome!” Swerve hauls Takeshita up, goes to half nelson, but Takeshita fights it! Swerve still tries but Takeshita elbows him away. Takeshita reaches for a corner, Swerve reels him back in! But Takeshita switches to hop up, POISON-RANA!! Swerve staggers up, into a BLUE THUNDER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!!! Swerve survives and shocks Takeshita!

Takeshita snarls as Swerve stirs. Swerve slowly rises, Takeshita brings him around for boxing elbows! Then he ROCKS Swerve again! Swerve leans on the ropes again, Takeshita grabs at him, but Swerve hooks free with his leg to ROCK Takeshita with a right of his own! Takeshita sits back, shakes out the stars, and Swerve nods. Swerve runs up, blocks a boot, and he yanks Takeshita, somersault into the JUMP KNEE! Swerve ends up in a corner, but he goes up and over as Takeshita runs in! O’Conner but then EDDY GORDO RANA! Takeshita stands, into the SOMERSAULT FLATLINER! Cover, TWO!! Takeshita survives and Callis is worried now!

Swerve goes to the corner and fans fire up as he goes up! Swerve takes aim for the- Wait, Takeshita bails out to the apron. Swerve just adjusts to APRON KILL STOMP!!! Swerve pushes Takeshita back in while fans lose their minds! Swerve reloads as he climbs back up, for the KILL- POWERBOMB!! Flip through and suplex, BRAIN- NO, Swerve slips free to CHOP Takeshita on the neck! Then half nelson, BIG PRESS- NO, victory roll! Then the WHEELBARROW GERMAN!! Swerve flounders, sits up, into the POWER DRIVE KNEE!! Cover, TWO?!?!? Swerve survives and shocks everyone! Callis was even ready to celebrate!

The fans rally up as hard as they can, and Takeshita drags Swerve up again. Takeshita puts Swerve up top as fans hope they “FIGHT FOREVER!” Dynamite’s already into the overrun, hopefully they don’t go forever! Takeshita climbs up after Swerve, waistlocks, but Swerve fights the lift! Swerve throws hands then ELBOWS Takeshita down! Swerve adjusts, reloads, KILL- NO, Takeshita dodges! Takeshita then runs up, BLUE THUNDER- RANA! Swerve sends Takeshita into buckles! Takeshita falls back, into the HOUSE CALL! One more try as Swerve goes up! KILL STOMPS!!! Cover, TWO?!?!? HOW?!?!?

Callis is so excited, he loves the shock on the faces of Swerve and Nana! Swerve hurries to get Takeshita up, half nelsons, but Takeshita breaks free! Takeshita ducks the chop, then swings, but Swerve ducks the haymaker! RISING HEADBUTT!! Takeshita wobbles, but he JUMP KNEES in return!! Swerve stays up, runs up, POP-UP KILL STOMPS!!! Swerve hauls Takeshita up, half nelson, BIG PRESSURE DRIVER!!! Cover, Swerve wins!!

Winner: Swerve Strickland, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the AEW World Championship)

Quebec is thunderous, Callis is upset, and from the looks of it, Samoa Joe is also unhappy he’ll have to face Swerve 1v1. Renee even walks over to ask him how he feels about having said 1v1 match with Swerve. Joe says, “How do I feel? What’s baffling to me is how he’s feeling right now. This is a man celebrating the biggest fate he’s ever gonna catch in his life. And next week, Swerve, when you walk down to that ring and you sign on the dotted line, I am gonna make sure that you UNDERSTAND what you are asking for. You think you’re ready? No. No. You’re not that man.” The King of Wrestling Television storms off, but will he lose his throne to Swerve’s Dynasty?


My Thoughts:

A great Dynamite here, so much great build towards Dynasty. Amazing opening match from Ospreay VS Shibata, great win from Ospreay so that he’ll be ready for Bryan, and then good move following it up with a career retrospective type hype video on Bryan. Awesome #1 contender’s Fatal 4 for the TBS Championship. We didn’t really get any fighting between Kris and Willow, which is actually quite clever, and great win for Willow. Julia of course goes after her, but I feel like that indicates Julia is losing the title and Willow will carry this belt in a feud with Mercedes Mone.

Really good promo from Dustin Rhodes and The Butcher to set up their match on Rampage, and I like that someone finally brought up the Bunkhouse match again. Really good little promo from Kyle O’Reilly to make it clear he’s having another match. And I like that AEW let Darby help plug Tony Hawk’s charity, I’m not even a skater but I appreciate them wanting to help all these kids out there who are or want to be. Good promo from Jericho and Hook to set up not a match but a manager-client relationship. You’d hope Jericho is going to be an honest manager but just as Hook implied, there is always a chance Jericho turns on Hook and we still get them fighting for the FTW title.

Great promo from Edge to give us his feelings after that big win in the I Quit match but to also pivot things towards the Cope Open’s return, just as I was hoping. A bit redundant, though, as they kinda snuck in the announcement during one of the tag matches. They should really just understand what the plan for the show is before having commentary bother with saying stuff like that. Anyway, the Cope Open is going to be awesome, can’t wait to see who becomes Edge’s first defense that he’ll of course win. And great though rather random bit with Toni Storm and Ben Mankiewicz, she didn’t even mention Deonna Purrazzo or Thunder Rosa. Maybe Tony Khan’s still writing that stuff.

A great promo from The Bucks with Renee to lead into their match with Private Party, and that was an awesome match. Of course The Bucks win, both because they’re definitely heading for the titles and they were going to get their win back after all these years. Best Friends VS The Kingdom was also great stuff, and I really liked Best Friends turning the cheat around on The Kingdom. Cassidy & Trent VS Bucks is going to be great, too, but as I’ve said before, this tournament has to be leading to Bucks VS FTR Round 4. FTR will beat Infantry, then beat winner of Top Flight VS Starks & Morrissey, Dynasty will add to AEW’s biggest tag team rivalry.

And of course, awesome stuff in the AEW World Championship story. Great promo from Callis and Swerve, amazing main event from Swerve VS Takeshita, like PPV level in itself. Swerve of course wins, and Samoa Joe had a great promo to respond to it. That contract signing segment will definitely be some good stuff, and their 1v1 match at Dynasty will be match of the year level for sure.

My Score: 9/10


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