Coverage

Mitchell’s NJPW AXS TV Results: King of Pro Wrestling 2018 Part 3!

Published

5 years ago

November 17, 2018

Steven Mitchell

NJPW King of Pro-Wrestling continues with an epic Triple Threat for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship! Can Kenny Omega defeat both Kota Ibushi AND Cody?

This coverage of King of Pro Wrestling will be as broadcast by AXS TV.

Gifs can be found at http://frentique.tumblr.com/

OFFICIAL RESULTS

IWGP Heavyweight Championship Triple Threat: Kenny Omega VS Kota Ibushi VS Cody; Omega wins and retains the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.

PLAY BY PLAY

NJPW and AXS TV set the scene!

The Golden Lovers reunited and it feels so good. But Kenny Omega felt even better after finally becoming the IWGP Heavyweight Champion! Omega promised his best friend a shot at the title. Omega and Kota Ibushi battled in the G1 Climax 28, and it would be the Golden Star who shined bright. However, The American Nightmare suggested something even more epic than just Golden Lover VS Golden Lover. Cody interjects himself into this match for a Triple Threat for the top title in NJPW. Will this match make the Golden Elite stronger? Or only serve to tear them apart all over again?

IWGP Heavyweight Championship Triple Threat: Kenny Omega VS Kota Ibushi VS Cody!

The Best Bout Machine, the Golden Star and the American Nightmare have all had their differences, but now they’re all on the same side. Or are they? Cody already has the IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship, on top of the NWA Worlds Championship and even a part in the ROH World Six Man Tag Team Championships. Perhaps Cody is just adding to his collection. Of course, he’ll have to get through both Golden Lovers to do it. Who will come out of this epic match as the best heavyweight in all of NJPW?

The three men make their entrances, the introductions are made and the belt is presented. Red Shoes does his check, and the match begins after the break.

NJPW on AXS returns as the three friends shake hands and hug to prove this is respectful. The bell rings and the three circle. They keep their eyes on each other, and Omega ties up with Cody first. Cody ties up with Ibushi at the same time, but he fights both Golden Lovers. Cody throws Ibushi out hard and focuses on Omega. He gets a headlock and Omega powers out. Cody runs Omega over, then things speed up. Cody slides under, kicks and drops for the uppercut. Omega bails out as Ibushi comes in. Ibushi and Cody tie up, and Cody gets a headlock. Ibushi powers out, Cody runs him over but Ibushi kips right up. Things speed up again and Ibushi dropkicks Cody down. Cody bails out and Ibushi builds up with the fans. Ibushi runs but Omega stands in his way.

The Golden Lovers talk but Cody goes after them both! Cody throws hands on Ibushi, then whips. Ibushi reverses and the Golden Lovers work together, roundhouse to Kotaro Krusher. Ibushi covers but Omega yanks him off. Omega covers but Ibushi yanks him off. Omega apologizes and says “Dozo (go ahead)”. Ibushi covers, TWO! Omega knew that would happen. He and Ibushi stand up but Cody knocks them into each other! Cody suplexes Omega and tosses him! Cover, TWO! Fans rally up while Cody fetches Ibushi on the outside. Cody suplexes Ibushi for the gordbuster! Cody goes back to Omega in the ring but Omega throws body shots. Omega runs but into the kitchen sink knee! Cody covers, ONE! Cody goes back to Ibushi, and suplexes Ibushi. Ibushi slips out and fires forearms. Ibushi whips Cody into railing, then runs in, only to be tossed up and over!

Cody leaves Ibushi behind, but Omega is ready with a kick and haymakers. Omega backs Cody to a corner, then chops. Omega whips corner to corner but Cody reverses and back drops Omega. Cover, TWO! Cody keeps his cool while fans rally up. Ibushi stirs in among the chairs while Cody springboards at Omega. Omega ducks under then huricanranas Cody on the return! Cody bails out and Omega fires up. The Terminator Drums begin, and Omega builds speed, to FLY! Omega gets just enough of Cody, and then puts him back in the ring. Fans rally for everyone as Ibushi returns. The Golden Lovers work together again. Omega says Cody, “You Can’t Escape!” Rolling senton, Ibushi shooting star, Omega moonsault, but then Omega grabs Ibushi for an electric chair! Ibushi slips out, and is just disappointed in his friend.

Cody watches as Omega apologizes, but this time Ibushi is ready. Ibushi elbows Cody away, but then Omega kicks Ibushi low. Omega whips Ibushi but Ibushi reverses. Ibushi runs in, but Omega goes up and over. Omega runs at Cody but Cody goes up and over, to then get Omega in the spinning powerslam! Cody runs at Ibushi but Ibushi goes up and over to hit Cody with a powerslam! Then the moonsault! Cover, TWO! Fans rally, focusing on Ibushi. All three men slowly sit up, and Ibushi brings Cody up. Cody pokes Ibushi’s eyes, then kicks Omega. Cody wants to work together with Omega, “We’re friends, too!” Omega admits that’s true, and they double suplex Ibushi. But then Cody rolls Omega up, TWO! Omega gets mad and the two start shoving. Then they start brawling! Cody SUPERKICKS, but runs into a chop!

Omega wants a snap dragon but Cody breaks free. Cody trips Omega and puts on a Figure Four! Omega slaps Cody, so Cody punches back. It’s a brawl inside the Figure Four, but Cody gets an edge. Omega gives it back, but here comes Ibushi! He kicks Omega, but Omega makes it an ankle lock! The submissions are linked, but Ibushi gets free. Ibushi then kicks Cody. He kicks at Omega, Omega ducks but Ibushi moonsaults! Cover, Cody breaks it while breaking his lock. The three men are still very even while we go to break.

NJPW on AXS returns, and Ibushi is the first to stand. Cody is next so Ibushi goes after him. Ibushi whips Cody corner to corner but Cody goes up and over to roll up. Ibushi rolls through, misses the kick but moonsaults, onto knees! But then Cody walks into a Snap Dragon Suplex! OMega brings Ibushi up, Aoi Shoudou! Cody comes back but misses the Beautiful Disaster. Omega gives Cody another Snap Dragon, then he takes aim. BANG, Omega runs, but Ibushi intercepts with a missile dropkick! Cody hits Ibushi with one of his own, then he drags Ibushi up. Cody gives Ibushi an arm wrench and DDT, covers, TWO! Fans rally up again but Cody keeps his cool. Cody shows off his stamina by doing push-ups and flexing. He then drags Ibushi up again and clubs away on the arm.

Cody whips but Ibushi counters. Cody dodges to DIVE onto Omega! But then Ibushi runs, Golden Triangle stopped by Cody’s clubbing forearm. Cody drags Ibushi out, but Omega stops the Cross Rhodes. Cody shoves Omega away, then goes back to Ibushi. Ibushi kicks Cody away, Omega grabs Cody to powerbomb through the announce desk! Cody writhes amid the wreckage, but Ibushi jumps on Omega with a corkscrew moonsault! All three men are down on the outside! Ibushi is up first and he brings Omega up with him. Cody crawls out of the wreckage but Ibushi puts Omega in the ring. Ibushi takes aim, but he sees his friend can barely stand. He ditches the springboard, to look Omega in the eyes. Ibushi dares Omega to bring it on, and Omega fires himself up. The Golden Lovers tie up!

They break, they tie up again, then it’s a brawl of forearms! Omega hits, Ibushi hits, repeat. Omega staggers a bit but he still hits back. Ibushi staggers a bit but he hits back. Omega boots back, and Ibushi takes a moment to wipe his mouth. Ibushi boots, and Omega boots back. Ibushi boots again, and Omega checks his ear. Omega runs in but gets a boot, then a strike fest! Ibushi kicks but Omega blocks to CHOP. Omega then hits a Snap Dragon! Ibushi sits up but Omega is on him. BANG, but Ibushi is ready, only for Omega to kick away his clothesline. Omega wants another Kotaro Krusher but Ibushi slips out the back. Ibushi wants a German Suplex but Omega lands on his feet! V-Trigger blocked, but it comes back!

Ibushi still swings on Omega but Omega dodges. Ibushi dodges back, only to run into another V-Trigger! POISON-RANA! But Ibushi pops right up! To CLOBBER Omega! Both Golden Lovers are down, sore and dazed. Cody has returned to the apron while The Young Bucks can only watch on with intense focus. Ibushi stirs, and fans rally up. He says he’ll end it, and he climbs up top. Cody comes over to shove Ibushi down! Cody climbs up now but has to kick Omega away. Omega staggers, Cody hops, and hits a Destroyer! Cover, TWO!! Omega survives, and now Cody grows frustrated. Cody stands again, and waits for Omega to stand. Omega does, and Cody wants Dinn’s Fire. Omega slips out of it, heel kick tot he back of Cody’s head! Cody slumps in a corner, and Omega runs in, V-Trigger to the back!

Cody is hurting but Omega doesn’t stop. Omega hauls Cody up to the top rope, then climbs up to join him. Omega wants a full nelson, but Ibushi can be seen crawling in. Cody resists and fights back, but Omega clubs him back. Ibushi gets in and creeps over. Cody sends Omega down, but Ibushi’s right up! Omega pulls Ibushi down, climbs up, but Ibushi kicks Omega in the back! Ibushi drags Omega up, scoops, and goes to lawn dart, but Omega slips out. Omega kicks, powerbomb lift, and buckle bumps him into Cody’s back! Cody ends up in a Tree of Woe now, as Omega gives Ibushi a Death Valley Driver! Cover, TWO! Ibushi survives, but Cody’s still stuck. Omega says BANG, and gives Ibushi a V-Trigger. Then electric chair, but Ibushi slips out to inverted suplex, Lawn Dart into Cody! Everyone’s down while we go to break.

NJPW on AXS returns again as the three men finally stir. Cody gets to the apron while Ibushi stands. Ibushi goes after Cody, wanting to German Suplex him back in. Omega sees this, hops up the other side, to then springboard to add a powerbomb to Ibushi’s German Suplex! Omega gets up while the other two are down, and he has two targets now. Fans rally up as he double guns, double BANG! He goes for Ibushi first, V-Trigger hits! Then to Cody, V-Trigger hits! Omega keeps on Cody with the electric chair, but Cody spins around and out, and he powerbomb lifts Omega. Cody throws Omega, and Ibushi uses that for his German Suplex! That’s usually a Golden Lovers move! Ibushi covers, but Cody breaks. Omega rolls away while Cody keeps on Ibushi with right hands. Cody then hits Omega with the Beautiful Disaster!

Cody fires up, and he goes outside to search under the ring. He doesn’t find what he wants on that end, though. He goes around the other side, and he finds a table! Cody brings it out and sets it up, but Omega has come after him. Omega clubs Cody but Cody bounces him off the wood. Cody goes back to Ibushi in the ring, and brings Ibushi up. He clubs away on Ibushi, and prepares a powerbomb. Ibushi resists, so Cody clubs him more. Cody gets Ibushi up for a Canadian rack, but Ibushi slips out. Omega returns to springboard, but Cody shoves him down! Omega falls through the table! At least it broke…

As for Cody, he just grins. He goes to a corner and climbs up. Cody aims at Ibushi, but Ibushi stops him with a forearm. Ibushi climbs up and has fans on his side. Ibushi hits the SUPERPLEX! But small cradle from Cody! TWO, and Cody springboards, only to get Ibushi’s kick! Ibushi brings Cody up, powerbomb lift, Golden Star sit-out! Cover, TWO! Ibushi keeps his focus, but now Omega emerges from the wreckage. Cody resists as Ibushi brings up his wrists, then he dodges Kamigoye! Cody reels Ibushi in, but ends up in a straitjacket suplex! Bridging cover, but Cody keeps one shoulder off. Ibushi rolls around and brings Cody up, Kamigoye!! Cover, but Omega blocks Red Shoes’ hand! Omega keeps this match going, to Ibushi’s frustration. Omega tries to reason with him, but Ibushi just tunes him out. And then chops him!

Ibushi fires off palm strikes from all sides, so Omega has no choice but to hit back. Cody returns, but his chop doesn’t bother Ibushi at all. Ibushi CHOPS Cody and he’s down and out again! Omega fires off on Ibushi, but Ibushi just needs one strike to get back. They go back and forth with those palm strikes, but Ibushi kicks. Omega grabs the other leg, but Ibushi brings Omega around for a mount. Ibushi makes it a cover but Omega keeps his shoulders up. So Ibushi just starts the ground ‘n’ pound! Omega does his best to cover up but Ibushi finds openings. Omega hits back but Ibushi keeps hitting harder. Now Ibushi uses closed fists, Red Shoes reprimands that. Ibushi keeps going but Red Shoes brings Ibushi away. Red Shoes tries to talk sense into Ibushi, but Ibushi just gives Omega a knee! Ibushi covers, TWO!!

Omega survives, and Ibushi grows frustrated. Ibushi drags Omega up, but Cody drags Ibushi out! Cody goes after Omega now, Cross Rhodes! Cover, TWO as Cody gets out the way of those flying double stomps! Ibushi crushes Omega, and Cody throws Ibushi out. Cody goes back to Omega, waiting for him to stand. Omega does, Cody hits another Cross Rhodes!! Cover, TWO?! Omega survives by some sheer force of will! Ibushi slowly return, but Cody stands first. Cody kicks Ibushi down, then drags him up and in. Cody lifts Ibushi, and hits Dinn’s Fire!! Cover, but Omega breaks it just in time! Cody’s infuriated now, and he decides to “borrow” a chair! He realizes what he’s doing, and drops the chair. Fans applaud that, but then Omega decides to use his IWGP US title belt! But then he reconsiders it again.

Cody tosses the belt to Nick Jackson, and picks up the chair again! He brings the chair in and aims at Ibushi, but Omega shields his friend. Cody stomps Omega instead, and prepares the chair! Ibushi grabs it and takes it away. Then he roundhouses Cody down! Omega gives Ibushi a POISON-RANA! And the Butterfly Wings!! Cover, TWO!? Ibushi survives and flounders about, but Omega reloads. BANG, V-Trigger! Electric chair lift, ONE-WINGED ANGEL!! Cover, Cody is too late, Omega wins!!

Winner: Kenny Omega, by pinfall; still IWGP Heavyweight Champion

Omega apologizes profusely to his friend he did the most damage to. The Best Bout Machine still has his belt, but what of his best friends? We’ll see after the break.

NJPW on AXS returns…

Matt & Nick Jackson help check on Ibushi. Omega signals for water while ice packs are brought in. Matt fetches the water and helps refresh Ibushi. Omega holds Ibushi’s hand, in hopes Ibushi is okay. Ibushi finally stirs, which is a huge relief to Omega. Cody helps Omega bring Ibushi up slowly and carefully. Omega also signals for the mic. He receives the mic and his belt, and Red Shoes raises his hand to make the victory official. Cody leaves the ring for the moment while Omega speaks. “Just a moment. I’ll wait until Ibushi can stand up.” Fans applaud such honor, respect and compassion from the champion. Omega tells Cody that he should be in here, too. They’re all a team, so stand with them.

Cody, though reluctant, knows Omega won’t “talk on the mic until all the Elite members can stand together,” so he joins them again. “Okay, Ibushi, whenever you’re ready, we’ll stand up and close it out.” Ibushi sits up, and Omega takes that to mean he’s good. “Everyone, let’s all stand, not as the Bullet Club, but as The Elite.” Was this the first time the fans here have seen a triple threat? Perhaps for some. Well he won’t ask individually, but did they like it? Were they entertained? Yes, they were. It is thanks to the fans that this match became a reality. And thanks to NJPW, for that matter.

Of course, any other organization could try, but they can’t do it like them, in Elite Style. So he again expresses his appreciation. And finally, the Tokyo Dome main event is set, huh? There’ll be a press conference soon enough, so there isn’t much else to say. Therefore, “I must bid you adieu.” Omega hugs Ibushi, who now stands on his feet. Omega hugs Cody, because he also loves Cody and his dog. And of course, Omega hugs the Bucks, he loves them, too. And not to forget the Elite who aren’t here, he loves them, too. So good bye, and good night- Wait, Hiroshi Tanahashi is here?! The Ace and his Wrestle Kingdom 13 contract now stand ringside. Tanahashi joins Omega in the ring.

Omega tells Tanahashi, “we’re both pretty tired. So if you have something to say, this is your chance.” Omega hands Tanahashi the mic as fans chant “Go Ace!” Tanahashi tells Omega, “Kenny-kun, I’m angry.” About what? “Everyone was clapping, but don’t forget this is NJPW.” Guess he’ll be the one to tell Kenny, “your time is up.” This will be settled at the Tokyo Dome. Tanahashi drops the mic but Omega picks it up. Omega is sure that the Tokyo Dome would chant “Go Ace”, but this is still Ryogoku. And here, it’s good bye and good night, BANG! Omega shrugs off Tanahashi’s cryptic ultimatum, but will he be able to shrug off Tanahashi’s wrestling? Or is Tanahashi predicting an end to start the New Year?

Backstage interviews.

Cody notes that last year, Cody surprised Ibushi with a challenge for the Dome. No one likes to lose, but Cody swallowed his pride for friendship. It still leaves a bad taste, but Cody is excited for the future. You’re not supposed to make friends in wrestling, but here they are. Is Ibushi okay? Yeah, just sore. They’ll get him ice. Ibushi shakes Cody’s hand then the Bucks’. The Elite will support their leader. “Then after that, buckle up.” No one in the Elite knows what the future holds, but they know they’ll face it together. Omega has his match for Wrestle Kingdom, but where will the rest of The Elite end up?

My Thoughts:

An incredible hour for NJPW and AXS, and it’s great that it was just the Triple Threat. There is so much of wrestling today where The Bullet Club’s Elite are the center of it, from what stories they all have in NJPW and ROH to who WWE eagerly wants to have for themselves. It was very fitting for Cody after all the action to say that 2019 could be a wild ride that still isn’t 100% certain, and we’re seeing that now in real-time with talks of all the contracts for The Elite. Whatever this insanely over collection of wrestlers chooses, I know their fans will follow, regardless of reaction.

As for the match in question tonight, it truly was epic. This probably gives whatever was the best triple threat ever a run for its money. It went the distance of 43 minutes, and it made everything count. The Golden Lovers working together, Cody using them against each other physically, and then eventually Omega and Ibushi having no choice but to fight each other, just brilliant stuff. And what makes it all even better is that at the end of the match, they’re all still friends. They remember the point of the match, they understand each other’s positions, and they know to stick together because they’re stronger together. Omega wins and now Omega VS Tanahashi is pretty much finalized. If Tanahashi ends up winning, then his line tonight will be true because it likely means Omega is going elsewhere. Only time will tell.

My Score: 8.8/10

Did Kenny Omega, Kota Ibushi, and Cody Rhodes deliver for NJPW? Let us know on social media @theCHAIRSHOTcom and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

Related Topics:AXS TV Coverage Featured Featured Big Featured Coverage King Of Pro Wrestling NJPW

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Coverage

Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 4.25.2024

We just got done with Rebellion, and Under Siege is two weeks away! Gotta see how these dots connect!

Published

16 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Andrew Balaz

Rebellion had quite a few returns, Mike Santana, Sami Callihan and Broken Matt Hardy. All three of these guys could easily be main event players, and its nice to mix up and expand what felt like a rather small pool of potential challengers.

Under Siege is only like 2 weeks out, so we’ll see how the dots connect in such a short period of time.

.@AJFrancis410, Rich Swann, and rap legend @BunBTrillOG are IN THE HOUSE Meanwhile, @joehendry announces he will deliver an apology to Fir$t Cla$$ NEXT WEEK on #TNAiMPACT! pic.twitter.com/4GNe2xWfyU

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

Ratings:

Mike Santana vs Myron Reed w/Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz: Santana wins via Spin the Block – ** 1/2
#1 Contender: Frankie Kazarian vs Josh Alexander: Josh wins via Grapevine Ankle Lock – ***
ASH by Elegance vs Xia Brookside: Xia wins via School Girl Roll-Up – ** 3/4
Sami Callihan vs The Good Hands: Sami Callihan wins via Cactus Driver ’97 – SQUASH
Eddie Edwards w/Alisha Edwards & Brian Myers vs Nic Nemeth: Eddie wins via Boston Knee Party – *** 1/4

Results:

Did @NicTNemeth say BROKEN? @MATTHARDYBRAND has arrived in the iMPACT Zone! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/HbkUangt6e

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

A weird opening that is just framed to put Nemeth and Hardy together against The System. Feels a little awkward, but who knows how it will play out.

.@JordynneGrace vs @miyu_tjp NEXT WEEK on #TNAiMPACT will now be for the Knockouts World Championship! pic.twitter.com/YnKZjb9yjx

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

Mike Santana vs Myron Reed w/Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz

Ahh I didn’t really pay attention to Santana’s theme at Rebellion, but its pretty damn cool. Good stuff.

Rascalz blindside Santana early, but the heel advantage doesn’t last more than a few moves. Santana whips Myron from corner to corner, hits a few Hip Attacks before Myron finally dodges one and starts using his unique offense and agility to his advantage. Matrix dodge, into an Leaping Outside Back in Slingshot Codebreaker. Some more offense and Santana powders to the ramp, Myron jumps over the rope and tries a Flying Cutter, but Santana blocks it, turns things around, gets pushed forward and hits the Rolling Cutter. Santana takes out the Rascalz, heads back into the ring, Myron tries to catch him unawares but eats the Spin the Block off the rope run! Santana wins fairly quickly.

Maclin’s music hits, he tries to employ the help of The Rascalz to attack Santana, but as soon as Maclin positions himself to get in, The Rascalz bail and flip off Maclin. Maclin makes it out of the confrontation relatively unscathed, but at least we know where he’s going for Under Siege probably.

OH FUCK ME WITH RUSTY KNIVES. Because Cardona is hurt Kon is paired with SDL, and she just challenges Jordynne and PCO to a tag match. WHY!? STOP IT. This is hot garbage.

Josh Alexander comes out…I wonder who’s Super Finisher he’s gonna conveniently kick out this time? Brian Myers? Frankie Kazarian? Rich Swann? Because yes, I’m still annoyed that Hammerstone has been in TNA for half a sandwich, he already connects with a Super version of his finish on tacks, and that’s not a finish. Oh Kaz’s music hits. Okay, so time for Josh to kick out of Fade to Black or Flux Capacitor. Kaz talks smack, says he won his match too so he should have a say in who’s number one contender. Josh challenges him, Kaz says not right now, but a referee runs out and says the match is official.

#1 Contender: Frankie Kazarian vs Josh Alexander

Kaz throws his jacket on Josh’s head, and attacks him with some strikes before Josh fights back and throws Kaz out. Commercial break, we see Kaz misses his Apron Guillotine, Josh goes for the Low Crossbody but Kaz dodges and Josh goes flying. Kaz starts throwing some chops and claws at the cauliflowered ears of Josh. Russian Leg Sweep from Kaz for a near fall. Josh swings wildly and Kaz ducks the strike and levels Josh with a Lariat.

Josh blocks a Vertical Suplex attempt, but Frankie pulls off a Fisherman’s Suplex after a few overhead strikes for a near fall. Josh stands up and connects with a straight right, rocks Kaz, Back Body Drop, into a Charging Forearm, Rolling Senton, 2 count! C4 Spike attempt countered into a Back Stabber and then Chicken Wing, but Josh fights it off, rolls through and into an Ankle Lock, Kaz kicks off and into a Head and Arm Cradle for a near fall and then the Guillotine Leg Drop into Slingshot DDT spot from Kaz for another 2 count!

Fade to Black, but its fought off, Big Boot but then Kaz counters the next move with a Power Slam into the Springboard Guillotine Leg Drop, but Josh grabs the Ankle Lock! Locomotion German Suplex time from Josh, Halfhatch Suplex after the Germans, floats over for a 2 count! C4 Spike attempt again, but Kaz fights it off, dumps him over the top rope, slingshots him in and into the Cutter for a near fall for Kaz! After the 2 Kaz grabs a chair and chain, the referee stops the chair of course, so he tries the chain, EY runs down and grabs the chain so Kaz pulls the Eddie Guerrero and the referee admonishes EY, but doesn’t DQ Josh. So as Kaz is busy laughing at EY, Josh picks the ankle, Ankle Lock with the Grapevine, Kaz taps.

Tensions are sky-high between @alexhammerstone and @JakeSomething_! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/LLCUJOCy7H

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

ASH by Elegance vs Xia Brookside

Both are jawing at each other and then throw hands before Xia gets the upper hand with a Headscissors from the Top Turnbuckle, Charging Knees, a Flurry of Kicks, but when the ref forces some space in the corner, ASH is finally able to dodge and work over Xia with her Twisting Body Splash, a few choking moves, a corner Stomp into a Snap Suplex for 2. ASH is in charge elegantly, but the referee keeps forcing space on both of them when they go for corner attacks. Xia manages to take advantage a little, but ASH regains control, kicks Xia up the ramp and then lands her Cartwheel Back Elbow up the ramp. It actually looks pretty cool executed like that.

Headlocks and Hair Pulling to keep Xia down and using energy to kick out. ASH is getting frustrated but Xia is remaining persistent. ASH goes back to the Headlock, but Xia fights up, Jawbreaker, Back Elbow, Kick to the gut and Drop Toe Hold sends ASH face first into the middle buckle. Xia rips off 4 Double Knee Smashes to the back of ASH’s head into her Flying Crossbody for a close 2! Xia pulls her up, but ASH spins out, then Xia slips it, but ASH kicks her in the chest and deposits her to the outside and demands a count from the referee. Iceman puts Jeweled Knuckles/Rings on ASH’s hand, the referee catches her, removes the stuff from her fingers and Xia hits the School Girl Roll-Up for the flash win.

Fraud has thrown the Ballot Box Battle into chaos, but also paved the way for an explosive showdown between @TheTreyMiguel and @The_Ace_Austin NEXT WEEK to determine the #1 Contender for the X Division Championship! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/lYHrtgNrc3

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

Sami Callihan vs The Good Hands

So the Good Hand Jobs are about to do their job to Sami. I’m just gonna assume Sami beats the hell out of both and wins with a Cactus Driver ’97. If anything interesting happens I might actually cover it, but come on now.

.@SteveMaclin has a proposition for @FrankieKazarian #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/XY6lMdmSWo

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

Kaz makes a Metallica reference with the “Wash Your Back So You Won’t Stab Mine”…and Sweet Amber is the only good song on St. Anger. So…I ain’t mad.

Eddie Edwards w/Alisha Edwards & Brian Myers vs Nic Nemeth

A little early ground wrestling and headlocks for control from both men. Nothing super flashy to start until we get to the rope run and Nemeth goes for the Flying Body Press to drop Eddie. Before Nemeth can follow up, Lish grabs his foot. Nic does have his brother Ryan in the crowd, trying to get chants going and do the old school ‘power up the babyface’ thing, but Eddie has been in control since Lish got involved. Simple offense, chokes, strikes, Snap Suplexes, Knee Drops, simple yet effective. But then Eddie ducks his head too early, Nemeth kicks him in the face, bounces his head off the buckles a few times, Dropkick sends Eddie reeling to the corner, Nemeth starts the 10 Count Punches but Myers hits the apron to distract and Eddie manages to slip the situation and push Nemeth to the floor.

Commercial break happens, Nemeth is trying to fight back with Chops, but a Kitchen Sink from Eddie puts Nemeth on the floor again! Clubbing blow from Eddie, but Eddie then misses the Hip Attack in the corner and Nemeth counters with the Rude Awakening into the 10 Count Rain of Elbows. Fame Ass-er miss, Eddie tries something but Nemeth turns it into that hesitation DDT for 2! Tuning up the band starts to build and Eddie powders to avoid it. Nemeth throws Eddie back in, goes to the top, but Eddie crotches him, rises up and hits the Superplex into Tiger Driver for 2! Eddie starts mocking with Tuning Up the band but Nemeth hits his own Superkick into an Olympic Slam for 2!

Both men just trade strikes Fighting Spirit style, Eddie says “Always Trust the System” and Nemeth shuts him up with a Headbutt. Danger Zone is blocked, Boston Knee Party gets ducked, they level each other with Lariats! Myers and Ryan Nemeth start fighting to distract the referee, Moose hits the ring and hits Nemeth with the belt. Eddie lands Boston Knee Party and The System wins again!

Overall Score: 6/10

A lame opening segment, a squash match, ASH by Elegance getting her first loss, and a weird way of just pulling the number one contender out of mid air makes for an awkward show. Also Kon still be involved in, literally anything, is negative. However, I can say there was a ton of stuff thrown at the wall this episode, so there’s a chance that some things landed better with other people than myself. The ballot segments were amusing, they overused the “I need to talk to you Santino” gimmick a bit much and personally I feel like having Jake versus Hammerstone is booking yourself into a weird corner.

But hey, the main event was fun, Nemeth getting laid out to the point that there could be a story reason to take him out of the Under Siege match. Kaz with the Metallica reference was pop worthy and I guess its a lot of ‘let’s see where it goes’ kind of angle creation. So it wasn’t complete trash, but its definitely a wait and see episode.

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (4/25/24)

Champions need challengers!

Published

20 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Steven Mitchell

The Queen is coming for her crown!

Athena & Billie Starkz are the top champions in the ROH Women’s Division, but Queen Aminata’s coming after them! Who will she target first?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Isiah Kassidy VS Komander w/ Alex Abrahantes; Zay wins.
Six Man Tag: Top Flight VS The Dark Order; Top Flight wins.
Anna Jay VS Allysin Kay; Anna wins.
Johnny TV w/ Taya Valkyrie VS Will Austin; Johnny wins.
Six Man Tag: The Mogul Embassy VS MANDERS & BEEFTANK; The Embassy wins.
Yuka Sakazaki VS Leila Grey; Yuka wins.
ROH World Tag Team Championships Proving Ground Match: The Undisputed Kingdom VS The Outrunners; The Kingdom wins and denies The Outrunners a title match.
Taya Valkyrie w/ Johnny TV VS Laynie Luck; Taya wins.
Six Man Tag: Lance Archer & The Righteous VS Jon Cruz, GPA & Ren Jones; Archer & The Righteous win.
Abadon VS Nova; Abadon wins.
Triple Threat: Blake Christian VS AR Fox VS The Beast Mortos; Mortos wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Isiah Kassidy VS Komander w/ Alex Abrahantes!

Brother Zay and the Commander of the Skies are coming down from the high of competing against Rob Van Dam on April 20th, but they’re both ready to get back up. Will Kassidy earn his shot (shot shot) at a championship? Or will the AAA Cruiserweight Champion be aiming for ROH gold?

The Code of Honor is upheld, but Zay has his fingers crossed! Zay trips Komander at the bell, says he’s too smart, then he steps on Komander’s dropdown to say “SHOTS! SHOTS! SHOTS!” and “SUCK IT!” Komander keeps cool, he and Zay tie up, and Komander headlocks. Zay pulls on the mask, powers up and out to hurdle, but then Komander steps on him! Komander mocks “SHOTS! SHOTS!” Zay runs up, Komander avoids the boot to then wrench, wrench and mule kick a leg! Kmoander steps over, rolls through, then rolls again, to a HALF CRAB! Zay endures, fights around, ROPEBREAK! Komander lets go and Zay stands back up.

The fans rally, Komander runs in but is put on the apron. Zay runs in but into a slingshot BOOT! Zay comes back but Komander goes up and headscissors Zay into buckles. Komander comes back to springboard, wheelbarrow, but Zay HOTSHOTS Komander and then throws him down! The fans boo but Zay says they don’t teach that at school. Just follow Zay and he’ll get your right. Zay then smothers Komander with his towel! The ref reprimands, Zay lets off and Komander sputters to a corner. Zay bumps Komander off buckles, CHOPS him, then stomps Komander down. Zay says “SHOTS! SHOTS!” as he gives stomp after stomp.

The ref counts, Zay lets off at 4 and dusts his shoes off. Zay goes back to scuff Komander, taunt him, but the fans rally up for Komander. Zay scuffs Komander more, eggs him on, but Komander fights up to fire hands! Zay ducks a roundhouse but not the HEEL KICK! Zay leans on ropes, Komander runs in but Zay puts him on the apron. Komander gets up but Zay triangle jump STUNNERS! Komander flops to the floor, Zay scowls and goes out after him. The fans rally, Zay backs Abrahantes off, and the fans boo. Zay goes back for Komander, SMACKS him off barriers, then grabs the chair.

The fans boo, Zay says watch this, it’s about to be an 8K. Zay runs and uses the chair to LAUNCH, into barriers! Komander avoids disaster, puts Zay in the ring, and he hurries to a corner. The fans fire up as Komander springboards, but Zay moves! Komander rolls through, ducks ‘n’ dodges then RANAS! The fans fire up while Zay bails out. Komander builds speed and WRECKS Zay with a dropkick! Then ASAI MOONSAULT and down goes Zay! The fans fire up, Komander drags Zay up and in, then he springboards again, for a SWANTON BOMB! Cover, TWO! Zay stays in this as fans chant “DOS! DOS! DOS!”

Zay goes to the apron, Komander storms up and stands him up. Zay shoves Komander away, goes up the corner, but Komander runs up! Zay anticipates and GAMANGIRIS! Zay goes up to SUPSER SUSNET FLIP, but Komander flips through!! The fans fire up and Zay is shocked! Zay still BOOTS Komander, fires forearms, but Komander bobs ‘n’ weaves to SLAP, UPPERCUT and power up! Zay turns Komander around but gets a SHOTEI! Komander then jumps up top POISON-RANA! The fans fire up again and Komander runs, but into a SPANISH FLY! Cover, TWO! Or as the fans remind us, “DOS! DOS! DOS!”

Zay says Komander’s done wasting his time. Zay whips, Komander reverses but Zay reverses back to scoop, only for Komander to tilt-o-whirl sunset flip! TWO, but Komander tries a side roll sunset, TWO! Zay escapes, Komander dodges his haymaker and waistlocks. Zay switches, Komander switches back, but Zay grabs the ref! LOW BLOW MULE KICK!! The fans boo as Zay gets away with that one! Abrahantes protests but the ref can’t call what he didn’t see! Zay blows a kiss, before the INVERTED TWIST OF FATE! Cover, Zay wins!

Winner: Isiah Kassidy, by pinfall

Brother Zay didn’t break rules but he did find a loophole to DELETE Komander’s momentum. Will Zay soon have a WONDERFUL ascension to the top of ROH?

ROH hears from Bullet Club Gold.

It was backstage at AEW Dynasty this past Sunday that the Bang Bang Gang unified the AEW and ROH World Trios Championships! Jay White says, “Today, our destiny, fulfilling our destiny by building our Dynasty! Y’see, I’m full! I’m full of that feeling when I get to say, I told you so! When I came to AEW, joined forces with The Gunns, I said the Gunns were money! Brought them in along with Juice Robinson, to Bullet Club GOLD. I said I would bring you gold, and boys, we’re running out of space. Because we’ve got gold a plenty, haven’t we, boys? Cuz I’m the mother effin’ Catalyst of Professional Wrestling! I told you so!”

Austin says their backpacks are heavier on the ride home, but that extra weight just reminds him that the Bang Bang Gang runs this Trios ish! Colten says they like to have fun before and after, but during? They don’t take no ish! There’s this saying around here, “Restore the Feeling.” That’s something for the young guys to get on TV, but guess who are never mentioned? The Gunns! Is it because they’ve been in too many main events? Is it because they’ve been tag team world champions? And now they’re AEW & ROH Trios Champions! The Gunns are the best damn team in the world! White is the best singles man in the world!

And tonight, they are the BEST trio in the world!! And if you’re not down with that, they’ve got two words for ya: GUNS UP!! The Bang Bang Gang is firing on all cylinders, but will they be able to shoot down those who take aim at them?

Six Man Tag: Top Flight VS The Dark Order!

Speaking of the trios championships, Action Andretti, and the brothers Martin get their shot at the Bang Bang Gang this Saturday! Will Top Flight pick up speed going into that Collision? Or will Evil Uno, John Silver & Alex Reynolds prove they are worthy contenders?

The Code of Honor is upheld, the trios sort out, and Darius Martin starts against Johnny Hungy. The bell rings, the fans rally and the two circle. The fans rally for “JOHNNY HUNGY!” as the two tie up. Darius wrenches, wristlocks, but Silver spins and fireman’s carries for the takeover. Silver has the cording hold but Darius fights up. Silver wrenches but Darius spins, slips around, waistlocks, spins Silver and cravats for the neck wrench. Silver endures, powers up and out, but Darius rolls over the dropdown. Darius sweeps a leg to cover, ONE! Darius turns Silver’s sweep into a cradle, TWO!

Silver gets up but Darius arm-drags him back down. The fans cheer, Darius wrenches Silver and tags Action. Action runs to LEAP FROG ATTACK the arm! Action wrenches Silver, tags Dante, and Dante goes up to AX HANDLE the arm! Dante clamps onto the arm, digs a knuckle into Silver’s ribs, or was it a tickle attack? Tag to Darius and Dante snapmares Silver. Darius runs to basement dropkick! Cover, ONE!! Silver stays in this but Darius stays on him. Tag to Dante, Top Flight reel Silver in but the rest of Dark Order save him from the double suplex! So Action jumps in and Top Flight TRIPLE SUPERKICKS!

The fans fire up while Uno and Reynolds spill back out. Action and Darius aim, DOUBLE PLANCHA but Uno and Reynolds DECK them outta the air! Dante brings Silver up but Silver fights the half nelson to then whip Dante into the ropes! Silver then runs up, Uno & Reynolds join in, TRIPLE DROPKICK! Silver then waistlocks to GERMAN SUPLEX Dante into a bridging cover, TWO! Silver tags Reynolds and he short arm LARIATS Dante! Cover, TWO! Reynolds brings Dante up, bumps him off buckles, then tags Uno. Uno CHOPS Dante, then snapmares him to stomp him down! The fans rally for Uno as he tautns Action.

Uno goes back for Dante but Dante throws body shots. Uno CLUBS Dante, bumps him off buckles, and tags Reynolds. Silver holds Dante in whiel Reynolds whips Uno for the SPLASH! Uno goes again, but Dante dodges, goes up and over Reynolds, hot tag to Action! The Sight to See rallies on the Dark Order! ELBOW for Uno! BOOT for Silver! ELBOW for Reynolds! Uno kicks low, whips, but Action handsprings to DOUBLE BACK ELBOW! The fans fire up as Action kips up, and he runs in at Reynolds in a corner. UPPERCUT! Uno runs in but the SPLASH is sent into Reynolds! Uno staggers away, Action DECKS Reynolds!

Action aims, slingshot and SPLIT LEG but he has to bail out as Reynolds moves! Action just uses that to roll and PELE Uno! SPANISH FLY on Reynolds! Cover, Silver breaks it! Darius tosses Silver out but Silver ROCKS Darius! Darius drops down but Dante runs in and uses Darius as a step, POETRY IN MOTION! Silver falls, Reynolds dodges Darius to RAM Dante! Dante comes back, Darius helps him get up and over, then Dante helps in the TORNADO DDT! Darius sets Reynolds up for the STANDING SHOOTING STAR! Cover, Uno shoves Dante onto it! Uno then CHOPS Darius down and goes to his corner.

Reynolds crawls over, hot tag to Uno! Uno fires forearms on all of Top Flight! Uno winds up, but Dante JUMP KNEES! Darius mule kicks! Action KICKS, Darius BUZZSAWS! But then Silver & Reynolds drag the Martins out! Uno dodges Action, tells him to STOP, then ROCKS him! The rest of Dark Order get in, Reynolds spins Action before the TRIPLE ROLLING ELBOWS!! Action wobbles, Uno reels him in, and Silver gives Reynolds the BOOST to take out the Martins! PILEDRIVER for Action! Cover, TWO!! Action survives and shocks the Dark Order! Uno cools off, tags Silver in, and Silver tags Reynolds.

The Dark Order surrounds Action and the fans rally up. They stand Action up, hoist him up, and Silver builds speed, but the Martins trip Silver! Darius drags Silver out, Action gets away and Dante baits Uno. Uno runs in, Dante goes up and over to JUMP KNEE Reynolds! GAMANGIRI for Uno, then Action SUPERKICKS! Dante DIVES to take out Silver, Darius steps in to COMPLETE SHOT Uno! Action and Darius have Reynolds for the double pump handle, DOUBLE LIGHTNING SPIRAL! Cover, Top Flight wins!

Winners: Top Flight, by pinfall

Action, Dante & Darius are flying high and heading for Collision, will they take those unified World Trios Championships away from the Bang Bang Gang in the blink of an eye?

Backstage interview with Athena & Billie Starkz.

Lexy Nair is with the ROH Women’s World and Women’s Television Champions, and says “Ladies and gentlemen, we are calling an Emergency MEM, a Minion Empowerment Meeting.” The Fallen Goddess asks the Minions why they’re here, and Minion #400,237.75 knows why. This is because of Red Velvet and Queen Aminata. They decided to stick their noses in Athena’s moment. The main event of Battle of the Belts, live on TNT, the first time the Overlord has been on live TV in over a YEAR. And Aminata put her hands on Athena, put Athena on her head, and proved that she is nothing more than “a hot piece of porcelain hussy garbage.”

Billie says not to forget about Red Velvet. Velvet acted all high ‘n’ mighty, but she just forgot Billie hasn’t beat her yet. Lexy says then it seems there is some unfinished business. The champs bring Lexy in for an uncomfortable double side hug, and Athena says “Bestie” is right. There is unfinished business. And since MIT is a nonprofit, they’ll give a “scholarship to the biggest ass-whooping Queen Aminata and Red Velvet have ever seen. Got it?” Athena tells Queenie and “Blue Velvet” to either step up or step out. Challenge issued to the Queen and the Chef, but are the Overlord and her sidekick about to get cooked?

Mark Sterling speaks.

“Some people get into professional wrestling because they need to. You haven’t needed anything in your entire life. You have an unlimited amount of resources at your fingertips. Money, culture, knowledge. You wanted to excel at this business, so you got the best training, the best workouts, the best diets, the best gear, the best moves. If it’s not the best, it’s simply not you. But the wisest man doesn’t think he’s the best until he’s surrounded by the best. And now, we all are. You are Ariya Daivari. And you are a Premier Athlete. We are the Premier Athletes.”

The Premier Athletes are here in person.

Sterling talks to his stable and tells them the beginning of phase two was a success. They wanted to assert dominance over ROH, and he would say message sent. However, they were not aware that the message would be sent to ROH World Champion, Mark Briscoe, to Dalton Castle, and half of the ROH men’s locker room. It took SIX men to stand face to face to these three. They’ve got Ariya back and more pissed off than ever. They’ve got National Champion, Josh Woods. And they’ve got Tony Nese in peak, physical performance. Now, they all know The Infantry wasn’t personal. They were just in the line of fire.

The Infantry is just on a long list of people who do not deserve the opportunities. Opportunities that belong to these three physical specimens! Because these are The Premier Athletes. When and where will Sterling’s stable finally break through to that next level?

Backstage interview with Griff Garrison & Cole Karter.

Lexy is now with Maria Kanellis’ baby boys and says they haven’t had the best luck as of late. What’s next? Karter isn’t sure. They keep getting opportunities, but they keep failing. Karter recently had a match against Christopher Daniels, and he lost! Griff says Karter thinks that’s bad, but Griff lost his shot at the ROH World Championship. Griff has faced Mark Briscoe twice in his career, and he’s 0-2. Karter’s match wasn’t even for a title! Griff had so much more on the line! Maria then walks in and sees her boys are disappointed. Well, Mama is disappointed, too. They both could’ve done much better in their matches.

But every loss is an opportunity. Griff was in the ring with THIRTEEN TIME ROH World Tag Team Champion, Mark Briscoe! Karter was up against Christopher Daniels, a legend! Maria’s been in the ring with both of those men, and they have so much experience. That is what Griff & Karter gain every time they’re out there. Every single loss is an opportunity. And everyone around here is always jealous of the abs and the looks, and it’s great that they are. But eventually, they’ll be jealous of what these two do in the ring. And eventually, these two will get back her championships, the ROH World Tag Team Championships.

Maria leads the way, but does anyone wanna tell her that that would mean her baby boys going up against her husband, Mike Bennett?

ROH World Tag Team Championships Proving Ground Match: The Undisputed Kingdom VS The Outrunners!

Speaking of Mike Bennett, he and Matt Taven are still champions after the big assist from Wardlow at Supercard of Honor. But will the Kingdom need their War Machine again real soon? Or will they be able to handle Turbo Floyd & Truth Magnum in 10 minutes or less?

The fans rally up for the Outrunners already while the Code of Honor is upheld Mega Powers style. The teams then sort out, and though Taven is confused, Bennett steps up and starts against Truth. The fans chant “TAVEN SUCKS!” but Taven just eggs the Melvins on. Truth and Bennett tie up, then Truth wrenches to wristlock. Tag to Turbo, he takes the handoff, and he nods as he wrenches and wristlocks. Bennett knees low, flexes on Turbo, then wrenches to an ELBOW BREAKER! Bennett wristlocks, says this is old school wrestling, but Turbo powers up! The fans fire up as Turbo rolls, handsprings, and kips up! Turbo then BOPS Bennett on the head!

The fans cheer, Turbo tags Truth, and Truth wrenches to wristlock. Truth grinds the arm, whips, but Bennett reverses. Taven trips Truth up while Bennett’s all up in the ref’s face! The fans boo and Turbo protests but Bennett dropkicks Truth down! Bennett mocks the old school posing then takes a bow. Tag to Taven, he CHOPS Truth in the corner. Taven CHOPS again, digs his boot in, but the ref counts. Taven lets off to taunt Turbo, and Bennett gets a cheap shot on Truth! Bennett drags Truth up by his hair, the ref sees that and reprimands, but Taven ROCKS Truth. Taven whips, but Turbo trips Truth to actually save him from the crossbody!

Taven tumbles up and out of the ring, Truth gets up to tag Turbo! Truth then runs and Turbo holds ropes up, BASEBALL SLIDE DROPKICK! Bennett runs up, is sent out, and The Kingdom regroups. The fans fire up for Turbo as he fires up, then PLANCHAS! Down goes The Kingdom and Turbo is all revved up! Turbo gets in the ring, shakes the ropes, then tags in Truth. The Outrunners coordinate, to spin and pose! The fans fire up but The Kingdom CLOBBER The Outrunners from behind! The fans boo but Bennett flexes. Bennett brings Truth up, CHOPS, and now fans chant “BENNETT SUCKS!”

Bennett CHOPS Truth, puts him in the corner, and tags Taven. Bennett feeds Truth to a BOOT, adds the BOSTON BAYONET, then Taven LARIATS! Cover, TWO! Truth is tougher than that, but Taven argues with the ref. The ref defends his count, so Taven brings Truth over to ropes. Taven CHOKES Truth but the fans boo. The ref counts, Taven lets off at 4, and Taven soaks up the heat. Truth sputters but Taven tags Bennett. The Kingdom mugs Truth, then Bennett keeps Truth from Turbo with a snap suplex! Cover, TWO! Truth stays in this but Bennett stays on him with a chinlock and stretch. The fans rally as Truth endures.

Truth is red in the face but he fights to his feet. But Taven BLASTS Turbo! Bennett throws Truth by his hair! Turbo storms in but the ref has to stop him. Turbo is upset but Bennett stands on Truth’s face! Bennett clamps onto Truth with a chinlock and grinds him down with a knee in the back. The fans fire up, we pass five minutes as Truth fights up, but Taven runs at Turbo again! Turbo ROCKS Taven first this time! Truth then hits a BIG back suplex on Bennett! The fans fire up, Turbo is feeling it, and Truth crawls over! Truth staggers ot his feet, hot tag to Turbo! Turbo rallies on The Kingdom with big haymakers!

The fans fire up as Turbo scoops and SLAMS Taven! Then he scoops and SLAMS Bennett! Scoop and SLAM for Taven! Scoop and SLAM for Bennett! The fans fire up and Turbo drops an elbow! And another elbow! And then he winds up, flexes, and JUPM ELBOW DROPS! Taven runs up but Turbo kicks! Turbo reels Taven in, flexes again, and hits a BIG suplex! Turbo points to Truth, Truth tags in, and Truth goes up! FLYING FOREARM on Bennett! The Outrunners hurry to get Bennett up, but Taven ENZIGIRIS Truth to stop Boot Camp, er Vice City, or whatever they were calling it! Bennett shoves Turbo into Truth then rolls Truth up, with tights! The Kingdom wins!

Winners: The Undisputed Kingdom, by pinfall (denies The Outrunners a title opportunity)

Taven grabs the belts to celebrate and Bennett says that was too easy. But then the ref suspects shenanigans! Did Bennett pull tights? Bennett defends his innocence, as does Taven, and the ref drops the issue. Will The Kingdom do anything and everything they have to in order to stay champions?

Red Velvet & Queen Aminata speak.

The Chef and The Queen are backstage, and Velvet tells Athena, “There you go again. Stirring up the pot. Oh my gosh, we ruined your moment~! I’m done with you. Billie? You wanna hang with the big girls? You wanna get in big girl business? Then bring it on. Yes, I haven’t forgotten I beat you, twice. And I’ll do it again, and this time, I’m a beat you like your mama never did. You know why? Cuz I don’t roll with minions. I roll with royalty.” Aninata says that’s right. And Athena, oh, they feel so sorry for “ruining” the moment. Actually, Aminata would do it again and again and again. And wanna know why? Because Queen Aminata does not respect Athena as a champion!

Athena has ZERO honor! And no one knows better about honor than The Queen. And Velvet says, “Y’know what, Queen? I’m looking for a fight. Are you looking for a fight?” Aminata is definitely ready for a fight. Velvet says it is time to cook, eat, leave no crumbs, and take out the trash! This dynamic duo is ready to tear down the Forever Champion and her little buddy, will they take the gold right off Athena & Billie?

Backstage interview with The Infantry.

Lexy is now with Trish Adora, Carlie Bravo & Captain Shawn Dean, and we’ve seen them get on a roll. How are they continuing the momentum? Carlie is so glad she asked. Have no fear, you know The Infantry is here. Dean says yes, they are here. And there’s been nothing but targets on their backs. They said they’re the most popular team, and people have been after them. Carlie does realize now that they had those OG Ops, then those really big Ops, and last week, there’s Ops they didn’t even know about. But let’s not forget those really old Ops, the- Oh wait, The Outrunners walk in. Turbo & Truth are feeling good. They may not have targets on their backs, but they’ve got some guns!

Wait, wait, wait. Are they wearing brightly colored camo?! Okay, first they take the Infantry’s move, now they’re copying the swag? What’s next? Trying to take Adora and their homes? What the what, son? Dean has Carlie calm down. He’s always got great ideas. He does? Yes, because next week, Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida, they take this to where it all began! Finally, Infantry take The Outrunners to where they belong, and that’s Boot Camp! Hold on, The Outrunners have been using camo since The Cow Palace. Dean has to hold Carlie back on that one! Turbo has a better idea! Outrunners VS Infantry, Daily’s Place, where it all began!!

WHAT!? Didn’t they just- Fine, CHALLENGE ACCEPTED! Oh yeah? The Outrunners will do Infantry one better and THEY will accept! Let’s roll out! Copy that! WHAT!? Stop copying them, Outrunners!! But will Dean & Carlie finally get through the delusional duo and make them find their own schtick?

Backstage interview with Johnny TV & Taya Valkyrie.

Lexy is with Mr. & Mrs. TV Ready and notes the season finale of Johnny Loves Taya just dropped. How are they feeling? Amazing~! Everyone loves their show, they worked so hard on it for months. Ten episodes, the grand finale, it couldn’t have gone any better. And think about it: awards season! The acceptance speeches, the red carpets, the fashion moments. But in sneaks Aaron Solo. That sounds fun! Though they would’ve won more awards if they had this face on the show. Maybe next season? Johnny says maybe Aaron would’ve been on the show, if he supported it once. He didn’t tweet about it once! All their real friends did.

Uh, Aaron is the Retweet King! Especially those first three episodes. Aaron and Johnny argue but Taya has them calm down. Taya runs the socials for the show, and she can confirm, Aaron did retweet. Oh, well, thanks, bro. Yeah, man! Remember QTV? The handshake? They do the handshake, right down the rocket ship taking off. Aaron says see? They’re bros. Before Johnny Loved Taya, Johnny Loved Solo. Uh… No. Aaron is a loser! TV Ready people do not hang with losers. Remember how his name used to be S O L O W? They took the W away cuz he keeps getting L’s! He’s 0 and THIS CENTURY! Get a win already!

Aaron says fine, if that’s what they want, he will win. And he’ll prove to both of you that Aaron is TV Ready! Aaron heads out, and Taya says it’ scute that he’s so confident. Not that it’ll work out. And they got the last word. Aaron then says “Bye” from offscreen, so Johnny says, “Adios.” Aaron has bet on himself, but will he win out?

Triple Threat: Blake Christian VS AR Fox VS The Beast Mortos!

All Heart, The Whole Fox’n Show and the evolved Black Taurus are among the fastest, toughest and hungriest competitors around, and they’re all looking for that golden opportunity. Will Blake be rolling into NJPW’s Best of the Super Juniors tournament? Or will another big name prove they’re a big deal?

The Code of Honor is upheld between Fox and Blake, but not Mortos. The bell rings, Mortos stares down Fox and Blake. Fox runs in to RAM Mortos but bounces off! Blake RAMS Mortos but also bounces off! They both run up, but he runs them over! Fox & Blake both kip up, but Mortos choke grips them both. Mortos shoves Blake away, but Fox flips through the choke slam! Blake & Fox DOUBLE SUPERKICK Mortos down! Mortos bails out, Blake and Fox coordinate, and Fox runs. But then Blake sweeps the legs! Fox ends up on ropes, Blake runs to BASEMENT 619! The fans boo but All Heart also has some brains.

Blake aims from the apron, springboards in and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Fox flounders to a corner, Blake runs in, but Fox puts him on the apron. Blake RAMS into Fox, slingshots, but Fox goes out to then slingshot SENTONS! The fans fire up, Fox suplexes for ANARCHY! Blake bails, Mortos LARIATS Fox down! The fans fire up as Mortos roars, and Mortos drags Fox up. Mortos suplexes, Fox slips free to waistlock but Mortos switches. Mortos shoves, follows, then rolls off Fox’s back! Mortos SOBATS, KNEES, ELBOWS and snapmares, to then NECK TWIST! Then SNAP POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO!

Fox survives that onslaught but Mortos roars again. Mortos drags Fox up, wrenches and grabs a leg, for a SHIN BREAKER! Fox writhes, Mortos gets legs and steps through, and Mortos ties Fox up for a NAVARRO DEATH ROLL! Fox endures the leg lock, but Blake DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS Mortos! The fans fire up and Blake smirks as he runs in at Mortos. Mortos BOOTS Blake, SLING-DOGS, then CRUCIFIX DRIVERS! Blake wobbles, Mortos whips to POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO! Blake survives but Mortos snarls. Mortos drags Blake up, UPPERCUTS him down, and Blake flounders to a corner.

The fans cheer as Mortos drags Blake back up. Mortos reels Blake in to back suplex, but Blake lands out! Blake dodges in the corner, then whips to ropes. Mortos reverses but Blake handsprings, wheelbarrows, SPLASH 182! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Mortos and Blake stir while Fox returns. The fans rally, Fox and Mortos stand first and Fox throws a haymaker! Blake adds a haymaker, he and Fox pinball Mortos around! They put him in a corner, throw more hands, then Fox goes up to rain down fists! Mortos shoves Fox away so Blake rains down fists. Mortos shoves him away, Fox returns to A-LIST LARIAT!

Mortos slumps down, Blake adds a LOW CROSSBODY! Fox skins the cat to DROPKICK Mortos, and then Fox goes to the apron. The fans fire up as Fox goes up, but Blake ROCKS him first! Blake goes up, brings Fox up, but Mortos adds on! The fans are going nuts already for the SPANISH FLY BOMB!! Cover on Blake, TWO! Cover on Fox, TWO!! Mortos snarls but he drags Fox back up. Mortos trophy lifts Fox, but Fox slips free to BOOT! Mortos tumbles out to the apron, and Blake SPEARS him down! Blake hurries to build speed so he can DIVE! Mortos stays up!? So Fox FLIES! Down goes Mortos and the fans fire up!

Fox puts Mortos in but Blake aims first! Springboard 450 SPLASH! Fox adds the SWANTON BOMB! But then Blake TOSSES Fox to cover Mortos, only for Fox to break it! Fox has had it with Blake being so sneaky, and TOSSES him out! Blake is on the apron, he ROCKS Fox, but Fox stops the slingshot! Fox has Blake in ropes, step-up DRAPING DDT! Roll through, but Mortos reels Fox in! Scoop and MORTOS DRIVER!! Cover, Mortos wins!

Winner: The Beast Mortos, by pinfall

Blake and Fox couldn’t say on the same page, and that allowed the minotaur of lucha to take the win! Will nothing stop The Beast Mortos from stampeding his way to a championship opportunity?

My Thoughts:

A good episode of ROH here at an hour and 38 minutes, but that made for quite a bit of filler. I did like the Six Meaty Men Slapping Meat Tag match of Mogul Embassy VS 1 Called Manders, BEEF and Calvin Tankman, but of course The Embassy won. Good return matches for Johnny and Taya, but I liked their promo with Aaron Solo better. It was a good use of continuity bringing up the failed QTV to pivot into a new story for Johnny TV now that Dalton Castle is moving on. Good promos from Mark Sterling, but a bit redundant again to have him hype up Ariya Daivari, then for him to talk directly to Ariya and the others.

Another confusing thing was the promo from The Infantry and Outrunners. Well, the promo wasn’t confusing, the timing was. Perhaps it was a victim of poor pacing as we’ve seen all over AEW & ROH. But I do appreciate we’re finally seeing these two teams have it out for ROH at Daily’s Place “next week,” aka prerecorded sometime this week. Outrunners had a good match with The Kingdom but of course The Kingdom won. But we’re getting an interesting detail where Maria wants her new boys, Griff & Karter, to go for those ROH World Tag Team Championships while her old boys, Bennett & Taven, still have them. Some sort of Kingdom Civil War angle in the works here?

Really good stuff with Zay winning by going to new lows, and really good Six Man Tag to give Top Flight momentum going into their title match with Bang Bang Gang. Really good promo from Bang Bang Gang and of course White & The Gunns are going to retain. And at least they did just what I was hoping by having a promo from Bullet Club Gold on ROH so that it counts as them being on this show. Just needs to keep happening, maybe with some in-person appearances. Not even matches, just BCG watching other trios fighting it out because they’re scouting, aka foreshadowing, new opponents.

Great main event Triple Threat but also a fast one, Mortos with the big win over Fox and Blake. While there’s something brewing for the ROH World Championship with Mark Briscoe being around Dalton Castle and The Premier Athletes, maybe Mortos can find himself in the world title scene for the next ROH PPV. And then great promos from Athena & Billie as well as Velvet & Aminata. We’re definitely getting a tag team match that will end up earning Velvet a shot at the Women’s TV title and Aminata a shot at the Women’s World title, and those will be awesome matches.

And if either of the champs is losing, I’m actually thinking it’s more Athena losing to Aminata than Billie losing to Velvet. I’ve said it before, Aminata’s proven herself worthy, and if she wasn’t gonna be inaugural Women’s TV Champ, might as well make her the woman that dethrones the undefeated Athena.