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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Results & Report! (2/18/19)

Celebrate the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, Bayley & Sasha Banks!

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The Boss & Hug Connection bring the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships to Raw! Who will be the first team to challenge Bayley & Sasha Banks for the belts?

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Tables Match: Baron Corbin VS Braun Strowman; Strowman wins.
  • Ricochet & Finn Balor VS Bobby Lashley & Lio Rush; Ricochet & Finn win.
  • Lucha House Party VS Curt Hawkins & Zack Ryder; Lucha House Party wins.
  • The Revival VS Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano; Ciampa & Gargano win.
  • Drew McIntyre VS Dean Ambrose; McIntyre wins.
  • Elias VS Aleister Black; Black wins.
  • Raw Women’s Championship: Ronda Rousey VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad; Rousey wins and retains the Raw Women’s Championship.

PLAY BY PLAY

WWE honors the memory of Pedro Morales.

 

Triple H is in the ring!

The Game wants the Cajundome to “feel it in the air.” The electricity can be cut with a knife as we grow ever closer to Wrestlemania. Elimination Chamber was proof enough when history was made. Sasha Banks and Bayley won the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships! Finn Balor won the WWE Intercontinental Championship in a Handicap match! Kofi Kingston went the distance and captured the world’s hearts coming so close to winning the WWE Championship. Becky Lynch showed up and showed everyone that not even a suspension and a bad leg will stop her from getting at Charlotte Flair and Ronda Rousey. As a businessman, HHH has to warn Becky not to do that again or she’ll be arrested. But as a former wrestler, “that was pretty damn cool.”

And speaking of pretty cool things, ESPN let this loose this morning. The WWE Hall of Fame class 2019 starts with none other than Degeneration X! HHH, HBK, X-Pac, Road Dogg, Billy Gunn, and yes, the Ninth Wonder of the World, CHYNA! But if that isn’t enough that it’s Wrestlemania season, HHH pours gas on the fire. HHH isn’t just an authority figure on Raw and SmackDown, he oversees WWE’s third global touring brand, NXT! Fans love NXT, so it is HHH’s pleasure to introduce us to some debuting NXT superstars, who will all be in action! And that starts with a man that has redefined aerial combat: The One and Only, Ricochet! For those unfamiliar, a highlight reel of Ricochet plays, including his time as NXT North American Champion.

But not only Ricochet, it will be the Embodiment of the End, the Dutch Destroyer, Aleister Black! A former NXT Champion and a prolific striker, Aleister will look to make his opponent #FadeToBlack! Then there will be Johnny Wrestling, the current NXT North American Champion, Johnny Gargano! Gargano has gone back and forth but has never lacked in match quality. Gargano was also in this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble match, but now he looks to make an impact on the main roster. And last but not least, the Psycho Killer, the Black Heart, Tommaso Ciampa! The current NXT Champion looks to make his mark on Raw tonight! HHH says the future is now, the future is tonight.

But all Hell is about to break loose, because it’s time for a Tables Match! It will be Baron Corbin VS Braun Strowman! The Monster Among Men wants retribution, will he get back at Corbin for Elimination Chamber’s assault?

Tables Match: Baron Corbin VS Braun Strowman!

Strowman and Corbin make their entrances, but Corbin makes sure to grab steel steps first. The Monster glares at Corbin while we go to break.

Raw returns with the bell and fans chant “Get These Hands!” Corbin runs but Strowman catches him! But those bad ribs keep Strowman from doing anything. Corbin grins but then Strowman shoves him out of the ring! Strowman throws uppercuts then throws Corbin into barriers! Strowman hurries and pulls a table out from under the ring, but Corbin clobbers him from behind! Now Corbin puts Strowman into barriers, ribs first. Corbin puts the table back under the ring, but Strowman rocks him with an uppercut! Corbin rams Strowman into barriers and again. Fans rally for Strowman while Corbin brings him around the corner. Corbin rams Strowman into barriers yet again! Corbin whips but Strowman reverses and Corbin hits barriers even harder!

Strowman drags Corbin up for a headbutt then throws uppercuts. Strowman fetches the table again and puts it in the ring. Corbin slides in from the other side while Strowman’s ribs slow him down. Corbin kicks Strowman on reentry and then clubs away on his back. He stomps and stomps Strowman then tears off the shirt. Corbin goes at the taped up ribs with hammering hands! Fans boo as Corbin mocks Strowman’s pain. Corbin kicks the table out of the ring while Strowman bails out the other side. Corbin follows Strowman and throws hands right on the ribs. And then he stands on Strowman’s side! Fans boo while Corbin gloats. Corbin rams Strowman into the apron! Corbin grins as he drags Strowman over and punches him in front of the fans.

Strowman denies Corbin’s suplex, to then suplex Corbin onto the ramp! Now Corbin writhes in pain, clutching his back. Strowman hobbles over and drags Corbin up. He shoves Corbin to the stage and then throws him into the LED wall! Strowman drags one table over, but he clears off the announce desk! Strowman fetches Corbin again and brings him over to the desk! Corbin slips out and throws Strowman into the desk, ribs first! Strowman and the desk fall over! Strowman’s in trouble while we go to break.

Raw returns and Corbin hits a corner splash on Strowman! He tries again but Strowman turns it around to splash him! Strowman runs in but misses, getting post! Corbin goes to throw Strowman at the table, but Strowman denies him. Strowman clubs Corbin down with one hand! Fans fire up and Strowman drags Corbin up. Strowman scoops but Corbin slips out. Corbin runs, slides past the table, and slides back in to clobber Strowman! Corbin rains down rights, then takes a moment to gloat. Strowman rolls to ropes but Corbin goes out after him. Corbin punches the ribs and bumps Strowman off the barriers. Corbin fetches a kendo stick, flashback to last night! He sits Strowman up to SMACK the bad ribs!

Corbin drags Strowman around to bounce him off the steel steps. Corbin gloats from the apron, then runs over, only for Strowman to ram him with steel steps! Strowman jams Corbin again! And again! Corbin staggers and Strowman dumps the steps. Strowman throws Corbin into more barriers! Strowman puts Corbin in the ring as fans fire up again. Corbin boots Strowman away then throws a big right hand. Strowman staggers but dodges Corbin. Corbin slides out and in, but is caught, MONSTER SLAM through the table!! Strowman wins!

Winner: Braun Strowman

The Monster Among Men gets revenge! Strowman toughs it out through bad ribs but now Corbin will be feeling sore. Will Strowman be able to recover those ribs and make a big run towards a title at Wrestlemania?

Strowman heads up the ramp and encounters Paul Heyman. The Advocate “congratulates” Strowman on the win, but Strowman grabs him by the shoulder! Heyman begs for mercy but fans want another table destroyed. Strowman shows Heyman mercy and leaves. Heyman composes himself and clears his throat. But it’s a bit tricky to get his usual introduction out, so we go to break.

 

Raw returns to Heyman in the ring.

“I can’t say that I’m surprised by Braun Strowman’s actions.” Everyone should be jealous of Heyman’s client. His client is the most dominant champion in WWE and MMA history. That is why, at Heyman’s own expense, he has put together an “educational” video to teach us about the “reigning, defending, undisputed Universal Heavyweight Champion and the main event, BROCK! LESNAR!” Footage rolls with Heyman introducing “the story of a real life Beast.” Lesnar prepares to defend his title at Wrestlemania 35. Why is this year different? The hero, Seth Rollins, has no hope of winning. That’s not a knock on Rollins but a plus for Lesnar. Lesnar was made strong by his life on the farm and he became NCAA Champion. The WWE came knocking and Lesnar defeated The Rock to become the youngest world champion ever.

Lesnar dominated the entire roster in under two years, so he moved on to a new field: UFC. He would dominate Randy Couture to become the UFC Heavyweight Champion. But then Lesnar even grew bored of UFC. The WWE field had regrown, so Lesnar went after The Streak. He was the 1 in 21-1, but that was only the beginning. The video ends and Heyman reminds everyone that Lesnar defeated Undertaker at Wrestlemania 30. Fans don’t like it, but there’s not a thing anyone can do about it. Heyman takes a survey: How many fans actually believe that Seth Rollins will win at Wrestlemania and become Universal Champion? Everyone does! But Heyman says there’s not enough fire to burn Suplex City down. But wait, out comes Finn Balor! The NEW Intercontinental Champion heads to the ring but we go to break!

 

Raw returns and Finn has the ring alone.

“It’s been awhile since I’ve held one of these championships. And boy does it feel good!” Finn remembers watching Razor Ramon, Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, so it’s been a dream to hold the Intercontinental Championship. And he is proud to carry on that legacy! Finn plans on defending- Wait, here comes Lio Rush! But without Bobby Lashley, given how Lashley body slammed Lio after their loss. “You don’t deserve to be the Intercontinental Champion.” Lashley deserves that title. And Lashley attacks from behind! Seems they aren’t as broken up as we thought! Lashley stomps Finn out in a corner, then Lio comes in to add on. Lio stomps a mudhole into Finn and then Lashley hauls Finn up. Lashley scoop slams Finn and tells Lio to finish this. Lio climbs up, Final Hour splash! But wait, it’s Ricochet!

The King of Flight dodges Lio and goes right at Lashley! Then asai moonsault onto Lio! Ricochet springboards to dropkick Lashley out! Ricochet and Finn stand together, ready for both Lio and Lashley! We go to break as things sort themselves out.

 

Ricochet & Finn Balor VS Bobby Lashley & Lio Rush!

Holla holla! The King of Flight joins forces with the Extraordinary Man to shut up and shut down the Rocky Mountain Machine and Man of the Hour! Will this impromptu dream team be successful in Ricochet’s Raw debut?

The teams sort out and Lio starts against Ricochet. Ricochet circles with Lio as fans rally up. Lio shoves but Ricochet shoves back. Lio grabs Ricochet in a headlock but Ricochet rolls him off. Ricochet gets a headlock and grinds Lio down. Lio fights back and powers out, and things speed up. Lio redirects himself then again, but Ricochet dodges him. Springboard huricanrana but Ricochet handsprings through! Lio is shocked but he kicks. Ricochet flips him, but Lio dodges and ducks. Ricochet rolls off Lio’s back to handspring huricanrana and dropkick Lio down! Lio scrambles to his corner and Lashley looks disappointed. Lashley tags in and now he circles with Ricochet.

Ricochet and Lashley tie up and Ricochet gets a waistlock. He shifts to a headlock but Lashley throws him down! Lashley looms over Ricochet and drags him up. Lashley wrenches the arm and shouts at Lio, “You see that?!” He yanks Ricochet’s arm and twists to make a point to Lio. Fans rally up and Ricochet gets up. Ricochet rolls and handsprings and back flips to break free and hit back. Ricochet throws more forearms, then whips. Lashley blocks and whips Ricochet to a corner. Ricochet enziguris Lashley back! Somersault dropkick! Lashley tumbles out, Ricochet builds speed, but Ricochet fakes Lashley out tot he superhero landing! Fans fire up while Lio regroups with Lashley. Lio wants Lashley to keep clam and focus while Ricochet smiles.

Lashley returns to the ring and Lio wants back in. Lashley tags Lio and he says he’s done with Ricochet. Lio wants Finn. Fans want Finn so Ricochet obliges and tags out. Finn and Lio circle and tie up. Finn puts Lio in a corner, but Lio dodges the haymakers. Lio and Finn circle again but Lio keeps his distance. He tags out to Lashley and fans boo. Lashley clobbers Finn and puts him in a corner. Lashley stomps and suplexes Finn! Cover, TWO! Lashley drags Finn into a chinlock, but fans rally as Finn endures. Finn feeds off the energy but Lashley drags him back down. Lashley grinds Finn but fans rally up again. Finn stands and pries his way out. He throws forearms but into a complete shot! Lashley covers, TWO! Lio wants back in, so Lashley tags.

Lio stalks Finn at the ropes and stomps him down. He chokes Finn but lets up at 4. Lio flexes but fans boo and jeer. Lio waits for Finn to stand before hitting him more. He whips but Finn reverses. Lio sunset flips but Finn rolls through for a dropkick! Both men are down but Finn stands first. Finn stalks Lio now but Lio crawls for Lashley. Finn toys with Lio before yanking him away. He puts Lio in the corner then trips him up to stomp away! Finn lets up at 4 then stares Lashley down. He drags Lio up again for a CHOP in the corner! Fans like the sound of that, so Finn whips corner to corner for another CHOP! Finn gives the fans what they want, a third CHOP on Lio! Finn whips again for yet another CHOP! Then the slingblade!

Fans fire up as Finn aims, shotgun dropkick blasts Lio into buckles! Lio is down in the drop zone and Finn climbs. But Lashley comes over, so Finn kicks him down. Lio chop blocks Finn on the apron! Finn tumbles down as he clutches his leg, Lashley tags in and throws Finn into barriers! Lashley talks trash to Ricochet before going back for more. Lashley puts Finn in the ring to clobber him. Cover, TWO! Lashley keeps on Finn with another chinlock. He shifts to a cobra clutch while fans rally up. Finn fights his way up but Lashley keeps him from Ricochet! Lashley throws Finn to the apron, but Finn shoulders back. Finn hits Lio, then slingshot sunset flips. Lashley holds on and stomps Finn! Lashley scoops and slams Finn hard! Cover, TWO! Finn lives and we go to break.

Raw returns and Lashley grabs Finn for another cobra clutch. Fans rally up as Finn endures again. Finn powers up and reaches for Ricochet! Finn throws forearms but Lashley whips him into the corner. Lashley runs into boots! Finn hits Lio but runs into Lashley’s lift! Lashley powers Finn to an open corner and rocks him with a right! Tag to Lio, and Lio goes after Finn with a facelock. Lio SLAPS Finn then dares him to get up. He slaps Finn more but Finn gets angry. Finn ducks the next slap for the elbow drop DDT! Both men are down and fans fire up! Finn crawls, as does Lio. Lio clobbers Finn to stop the tag! Lio rolls Finn all the way to the corner, tag to Lashley.

Lashley says this is for Ricochet as he hauls Finn up. Powerbomb lift, but Finn fights out! Finn trips Lashley, double stomps! Fans fire up all over again as Finn crawls for his corner! Hot tags to Lio and Ricochet! Ricochet rallies, rebound neckbreaker! Shoulder tackle in the corner, then a springboard missile dropkick! Triangle dropkick for Lashley! Ricochet takes aim, builds speed, and FLIES onto Lio! He puts Lio in but Lashley comes storming over. Ricochet dodges Lashley with a back flip to send him into barriers, and then Finn shotgun dropkicks to take Lashley down! Ricochet springboard back elbows Lio to take him down, then climbs up high! 630!! Cover, Ricochet and Finn win!

Winners: Ricochet and Finn Balor, Ricochet pinning

An incredible Raw debut for the NXT superstar! Is Ricochet going to revolutionize the Red Brand from here on out?

 

Natalya talks with Triple H backstage.

But Drew McIntyre interrupts. McIntyre couldn’t help but notice HHH rolling out the red carpet for NXT superstars. McIntyre said he’d do whatever it takes to prove himself. He wants Seth Rollins and main event Wrestlemania! But Dean Ambrose comes along instead. Ambrose isn’t busy, what about him? And he SLAPS McIntyre! HHH wonders if McIntyre still wants Rollins. “Change the damn match.” The Scottish Terminator and the Lunatic Fringe look to settle things on the Road to Wrestlemania!

 

Lucha House Party VS Curt Hawkins & Zack Ryder!

The reunited Major Brothers want to finally get back on a winning track, but Hawkins feels like he’s cursed. Will a miracle happen in the Cajundome?

Teams sort out and Hawkins starts against Gran Metalik. They tie up and Hawkins shifts from headlock to hammerlock and back again. Hawkins gets a headlock takeover but Metalik headscissors. They both kip up and things speed up. Hawkins dodges the handspring and runs Metalik over! Cover, ONE! Hawkins keeps on Metalik and brings him over. Tag to Ryder, and they Russian Leg Sweep STO combo! Cover, TWO! Ryder drags Metalik up and bumps him off buckles. Ryder whips but Metalik reverses. Metalik runs into knees, and Ryder dropkicks Lince Dorado down! Metalik SUPERKICKS Ryder out, then tags Lince. The Golden Lynx huricanranas Ryder into barriers! Lince puts Ryder in to cover, TWO! Lince keeps on Ryder with a half camel clutch.

Fans rally up for Ryder. Lince powers him to the corner and tags in Metalik. Ryder fights back but is isolated. Lince and Metalik double CHOP and double mule kick, then double dropkick! Metalik covers, TWO! Tag to Lince and they drag Ryder up for a double suplex. Ryder slips through for double neckbreakers! Ryder crawls for the corner, hot tag to Hawkins! Hawkins rallies, rocking Metalik with a right! He throws rights on Lince then whips. Lince reverses but Hawkins runs him over! Hawkins dropkicks both luchadores and fires up! Lince swings into Hawkins’ backslide! TWO, and Lince kicks back. Lince suplexes, but Hawkins cradles! TWO, and Hawkins scoops Lince for a Michinoku Driver! Cover, but Metalik breaks it!

Ryder clotheslines Metalik out! Lince dropkicks Ryder out, but Hawkins Peles Lince! Hawkins gets to a corner and takes aim. Hawkins clobbers Metalik but Lince huricanranas to a cover! The Lucha House Party wins!

Winners: Lucha House Party, Lince Dorado pinning

The fiesta continues, as does Hawkins’ losing streak. Ryder and Hawkins regroup, but can they break that bad streak?

 

Heavy Machinery is here!

Charli Caruso interviews Tucker Knight & Otis Dozovic on stage, and notes how they’ve competed on both Raw and SmackDown. What can fans expect from them? They’re #BlueCollarSolid and get the job done. They aren’t afraid to work hard, work out even harder, and then eat up a big plate of red meat. #SteaksAndWeights, baybay! As the Raw Tag Team Division heats up, which team are they after first? They’ve got each other’s backs, nothing more than that. But wait, Lacey Evans walks out! The Model Soldier classes things up as she heads down the ramp, strutting her stuff. But then Tucker & Otis do the same! And with a belly bump! Lacey isn’t impressed by their marching, but she is amused. Which brand will Lacey finally choose as her main roster home?

 

Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano talk backstage.

Each of them clutches their respective championship belt as they prepare to show the world what NXT is all about. But then Bobby Roode and Chad Gable come by! They congratulate their NXT compatriots, but are a little confused as to why Ciampa and Gargano are the ones facing The Revival and not them. It’s great to see fresh talent, and Gable remembers DIY being great. Gable won’t bring up that Gable’s old team beat them in the past, that was then and this is now. Raw gives everyone a fresh start, where you work from the bottom up. But again, a little confusing that they’re getting another match when it should be Roode & Gable. Well considering Gargano & Ciampa have ran NXT for the last two years, they’re here to take over.

The Revival comes by and show off their Raw Tag Team Championships. Oh how great is it to see Gargnao and Ciampa again. Yeah, they had classic matches in NXT. But they’re not here for respect, they’re here to make an impression at the Top Guys’ expense. But good luck out there. Dash & Dawson don’t need luck, they’re The Revival. See you out there.

The Revival VS Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano!

Scott Dawson & Dash Wilder finally have the Raw Tag Team Championships after finally defeating Roode & Gable fair and square. But now they’ll be tested already against some familiar NXT foes. Will the reunited DIY prove they can still get it done as a tag team? Or has it been too long since they’ve been apart?

The teams sort out and Dash starts against Johnny Wrestling! They tie up and Dash wrenches the arm. Dash brings Gargano to the mat but Gargano fights his way up. Gargano rolls and reverses with a drop toehold. He gets a facelock and holds on as Dash rolls around. Gargano rolls Dash to a cover, TWO! Gargano drags Dash over and tags Ciampa. Ciampa gets the hand-off and snapmares Dash to a chinlock. Ciampa rams elbows in then gets Dash in a facelock. Roode and Gable watch backstage while Dash chops Ciampa. Ciampa CHOPS back then tags in Gargano. Ciampa feeds Dash to Gargano’s boots. Gargano grabs Dash but Dash scoops and rams Gargano into the Revival’s corner! Dash tags Dawson and Dawson bumps Gargano off buckles!

Dawson clobbers Gargano in the corner then stomps and CHOPS him. The referee counts and Dawosn backs off, but Gargano turns it around to CHOP Dawson. Dawson CHOPS Gargano, then whips him corner to corner. Gargano goes up and over but Dawson runs him over. Things speed up and Gargano huricanranas Dawson out. Dash runs in but gets an enziguri. Gargano builds speed and DIVES onto Dawson! Dash runs into Ciampa’s haymaker! Gargano SUPERKICKS Dash and Ciampa throws Dash into steel steps! Ciampa pats himself on the back while we go to break.

Raw returns as Dash grinds Gargano in a chinlock. Gargano fights his way up and out, but Dash shoves and rams a shoulder into Gargano. Tag to Dawson and Dawson fireman’s carry. Dawson helps Dash suplex but Gargano slips out! Gargano enziguris Dawson while giving Dash the tornado DDT! Gargano and The Revival are down but Gargano heads for the corner. Fans rally up, hot tag to Ciampa! Ciampa rallies on Dawson and whips, but Dawson whips back. Ciampa kicks him away, then hits a German Suplex! He holds on for another German! Dash runs in but is flapjack’d onto the ropes! Ciampa finishes the hat trick on Dawson! Ciampa runs, Psycho Knee! Cover, TWO!! Dawson survives but Ciampa keeps focus.

Ciampa drags Dawson up but Dash saves Dawson from another German. Dawson tags Dash and they combine, flying European Uppercut German Suplex! Dash jackknife covers, TWO! Ciampa escapes and The Revival grows frustrated. Fans rally up for Ciampa as Dash tags Dawson back in. Dawson drags Ciampa up but Ciampa throws forearms. Ciampa chops, chops, and CHOPS, but spins into a right hand! Tag to Dash and the Revival double whip. Gargano SUPERKICKS the Shatter Machine apart! Ciampa jackknifes, TWO! Ciampa hip tosses Dash to the buckles! Tag to Gargano, slingshot DDT! Cover, TWO!! Dash lives and DIY can’t believe it! Dawson trips up Ciampa and throws him into barriers! Gargano rolls Dawson for the school boy kick! Dash back suplexes but Gargano crossbodies, TWO!

Dash scoops but Gargano cradles, TWO! Gargano runs but is put on the apron. Slingshot Spear gets a knee! Dawson tags in and The Revival coordinate, bulldog doomsday device! Cover, but Ciampa breaks it in time! All four men are down but the teams regroup. Dash goes after Ciampa but gets thrown out. Dawson clubs Ciampa out and goes back to Gargano. Dawson drags Gargano up and suplexes, but Gargano lands on the apron. Gargano swing kicks Dawson, SUPERKICKS Dash, but Dawson rocks Gargano! Dawson runs but into the slingshot spear! Tag to Ciampa! They aim at Dawson, DIY VICE!! Cover, DIY wins!!

Winners: Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano, Ciampa pinning

They pin the Raw Tag Team Champions on their debuts! Ciampa and Gargano run NXT, will they be running Raw soon enough?

 

Backstage interview with Finn Balor and Ricochet.

Finn just won the Intercontinental Championship and then kept Lashley and Lio at bay with the help of his new friend. Finn had a great night last night, but tonight was about The One and Only. He officially welcomes Ricochet to Raw, and Ricochet says that “you can envision how you arrive to your dreams”, but it’s never exactly how you plan. But once you live the dream, it’ll feel better than anything you could ever imagine! Ricochet could go on forever, but he will say this: you’ve only seen the beginning for the One and Only. When and where will we see Ricochet in a Raw ring again?

 

Kevin Owens speaks.

“Just a few more weeks’ time before my return, so I figured it was time for another update.” Nothing much has changed, but Kevin almost drops his phone. Kevin’s still rehabbing, training, relaxing with family, watching the shows every week. He knows what he needs to do, and he’s never been hungrier. Speaking of, he has some popcorn with Owen. Where’s the soda? No idea. But Kevin gave him a $20… Well, that aside, Kevin has new perspective. He was reminded why he fights. And he’s ready to fight again.

 

Sasha Banks & Bayley head to the ring!

The inaugural Women’s Tag Team Champions are here and ready to celebrate! The Cajundome lets them know “You Deserve It!” Bayley and Sasha thank the fans for that, and are still feeling the emotions from last night. They still can’t quite believe they’re in this moment. Because it means they are the first ever WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions!

This feels like a dream, but it’s real. They did this! The fans did this! We all did this! It’s so crazy to think how far they’ve come. From NXT’s history making matches to the history-making matches on Raw. They’ve had matches against each other, with each other, hating to loving, and everything else in between. It’s because they have the same dream, the same vision, and they can’t imagine doing this without anyone else. They were legit born to do this. And it took them going to war with each other to finally realize that together, they can change the world.

Fans can trust them that this is just the beginning! They plan on being champs for a very long time. They’ve put their hearts and souls into the Women’s Tag Division, and plan on defending against anyone past, present or future, Raw or SmackDown, or even NXT! Because most importantly, Bayley and Sasha recognize and respect how important the Women’s Tag titles are to everyone! “Trust us when I say that when I say there is no stronger connection than the Boss & Hug Connection!” #BankOnThat! But in saying that, here comes the Samoan Dynasty!

Nia Jax and Tamina are sick of all this. No one wants to sit in the love fest. Nia does congratulate Bayley and Banks for being the first, and it’s all cute being matching and stuff. But Nia doesn’t get it. She won’t ruin the celebration, because this is the only one they’ll get. But everyone knows Sasha is all about Sasha. And history proves that any time Sasha has a title, she loses it the first time out. Tamina wants them to face it: they got lucky. The luck runs out tonight. Nia and Tamina rush the ring but get dropkick’d right back out! Nia tries again but ends up in a Bank Statement! Tamina saves Nia, and the champs stand tall! Will the first challengers to the #LegitHuggable champions be the powerhouses of the Women’s Division?

 

Drew McIntyre VS Dean Ambrose!

The Scottish Terminator called out The Architect, but it was the Lunatic Fringe that responded. Ambrose is either bored, or he’s actually standing up for his Shield brother again. Whatever the reason, McIntyre’s in for a fight! Will he run through Ambrose or be sidetracked from his real target completely?

The bell rings and Ambrose goes right at McIntyre! He forearms McIntyre to a corner but McIntyre shoves him away. Ambrose comes back for more but gets the Glasgow Kiss! McIntyre rains down rights on Ambrose then finishes with one big one. He drags Ambrose up for a CHOP! Ambrose drops to his knees, so McIntyre kneels to CHOP him again! McIntyre eggs Ambrose on and slaps him for the slap earlier. Ambrose CHOPS back, but then runs into McIntyre’s arms. McIntyre shifts and suplexes Ambrose but Ambrose lands on his feet. Ambrose elbows from a corner, then dumps McIntyre out. Ambrose boots McIntyre back down, then DIVES! Direct hit sends McIntyre into barriers! Ambrose puts McIntyre in, dodges, and hits a neckbreaker! Ambrose hurries up top quick, but has to leap over McIntyre. CLAYMORE!

But McIntyre doesn’t cover, he wants to hit Ambrose again. He aims from the corner as Ambrose stands, a second CLAYMORE! Cover, McIntyre wins!

Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall

The Celtic Colossus makes Ambrose pay for getting in his way. Will McIntyre move on towards Seth Rollins and Wrestlemania?

 

Paul Heyman’s Brock Lesnar documentary continues.

The Beast decided to own the title. Lesnar took John Cena to Suplex City and conquered him to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. “The harvest had begun.” From Randy Orton to AJ Styles to Daniel Bryan, Finn Balor, Samoa Joe, Goldberg, Braun Strowman, Dean Ambrose, Roman Reigns… And now “Seth Freakin’ Rollins.” Things come full circle.

Rollins claims he’ll get up every time, even though he’s in pain, smashed, and dominated. Rollins is willing to lose it all to win it once, which will make him the most dangerous opponent for Lesnar. Lesnar will have to think back to when he was in the same position as a young man. Lesnar won’t just have to knock Rollins down, he’ll have to put him down. And this is not a prediction, this isn’t even a spoiler. “It’s the end of the story of a man named Seth Rollins.”

 

Backstage interview with Seth Rollins.

After seeing Heyman’s videos, are there any regrets? Heyman is a lot of things, but he’s telling the truth about Lesnar. But Rollins doesn’t have a death wish, he’s accepting his fate. Lesnar needs to accept his fate. Wrestlemania ends it for The Beast. The reign of terror is done. And Rollins’ fate, whether walking out on his own or carried out on a stretcher, he leaves the Universal Champion. Dean Ambrose comes by all sore from fighting McIntyre. Where was Rollins out there, man? What? Has Ambrose completely lost his mind? Or maybe just his memory…? Ambrose shrugs and leaves again. Ambrose’s confusing behavior aside, is Rollins ready to write his own destiny?

 

Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.

The Drifter is in the Cajundome, and he won’t play his guitar? He is fed up with the way he is treated. Elias is the most talented, most charismatic and most important superstar in a long, long time. Elias is certainly the most hygienic person to be in the “swamp land” of Lafayette. ANd yet he is constantly disrespected and interrupted! He is a musical genius! You are blessed to be in his presence! Fans are excited about all the new stars, but that won’t change the Living Truth. Elias makes magic with his music, so he’ll sing his song. It’s not for the fans, it is a song for himself. Elias hopes he can meditate so deep, he forgets the fans even exist. But first, silence cell phones, hold applause, and shut your mouths! But here comes Aleister Black!

The Embodiment of the End rises from the shadows and heads to the ring! Elias gets out of the way as Aleister slingshots in. Aleister paces, and he takes up the mic. “If silence and deep sleep is what you seek, then allow me to help you. For tonight, you will Fade to Black!” A referee joins them in the ring, and we have a match!

Elias VS Aleister Black!

The bell rings and they tie up. Elias knees low and chops Aleister, then throws forearms. Elias throws Aleister to ropes but Aleister rebounds easily! Aleister sends Elias out then fakes him out! Aleister sits down again and stares Elias down while we go to break.

Raw returns and Elias yanks Aleister into the ropes! Aleister gasps to a corner but Elias is on him with hammering hands! The ref backs Elias off but he comes back to stomp Aleister down! Elias throws more forearms but Aleister hits back. Elias whips and runs Aleister over. Cover, TWO! Elias keeps his cool as he looms over Aleister. He drags Aleister up and wraps on a chinlock. Aleister endures and fans rally up. Aleister arm-drags Elias but Elias holds onto Aleister’s hair! Elias drags Aleister into the chinlock again and grinds him down. Elias puts his weight on Aleister then hooks the nose! The ref reprimands Elias and Aleister powers up. Aleister fights with body shots but Elias knees low. Elias throws hands but Aleister counter punches!

Elias shoves Aleister but Aleister comes back with knees and forearms. Aleister runs and runs Elias over! He blocks a kick to sweep the legs! Then drives in a knee! Aleister fires up, springboard quebrada! Cover, TWO! Aleister keeps his focus as he fires up again. He runs in but Elias puts him into buckles. Aleister rocks Elias but Elias rocks Aleister. Aleister boots Elias, then leaps, into Elias’ knee! Cover, TWO! Elias grows frustrated but Aleister was former NXT Champion, after all. Elias shouts at the “Cajun yokels,” then drags Aleister up. He reels Aleister in but Aleister spins through, BLACK MASS! Cover, Aleister wins!

Winner: Aleister Black, by pinfall

Aleister practically won by knockout! Elias fades out and the Embodiment of the End has made his mark. Will Aleister stay on Raw? Will he move to SmackDown? And who will he make #FadetoBlack next?

 

Raw Women’s Championship: Ronda Rousey VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad!

The Squad failed to be golden on Elimination Chamber night, but the Squad Leader has a second chance. Rowdy Ronda loves defending her belt the Raw after a Pay-Per-View, so will Ruby take advantage of having her friends ringside this time?

Introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we begin! Ruby goes at Ronda but Ronda throws her right down! Ronda throws her again, and throws hands. Ronda toys with Ruby even as she swipes then backs off. Ruby bails out and regroups with Liv and Sarah. Ronda waits despite being angry over what Becky Lynch did to her last night. Ruby returns and gets Ronda’s ponytail, but Ronda throws knees. Ruby still STO’s Ronda down! Cover, ONE! Ruby kicks Ronda while she’s down, then goes after the back. Ronda resists so Ruby hammers away. Ruby kicks Ronda again and the Squad mocks Ronda’s pain. Ruby stands Ronda up for double knuckle locks. Fans rally up but Ruby monkey flips Ronda. Ronda catches Ruby’s roll into a triangle! Ruby makes it a cover, TWO! Ronda glares at Ruby while we go to break.

Raw returns once more, and Ruby has Ronda’s bad arm in a wrench. Fans rally up for Ronda as she endures. Ronda fights her way up, but Ruby rocks her with forearms. But then Ronda scoops and tosses Ruby with an Exploder! Ruby bails out but Ronda pursues. Ronda puts her in the ring, but Ruby SPEARS Ronda! Cover, TWO! Ronda survives but Ruby puts her in a headlock. They roll around but Ruby holds on. Ronda throws Ruby off and throws hands. Ronda rocks Ruby with an uppercut, then fires up! Fans fire up with her as she throws Ruby around! Ruby flounders to a corner and Ronda hits a forearm smash! Ronda runs back in, but into a buckle shot! Ruby hops up, stage-dive senton! Cover, TWO!! Ronda survives again but Ruby keeps on her.

Ruby drags Ronda up, toys with her, but Ronda grabs the foot to spin Ruby around. Ruby dodges, but runs into the fireman’s carry! She slips out, headbutts, RIOTT KICK! Cover, TWO!! Ronda survives Ruby’s best! Liv and Sarah are just as shocked as Ruby is, but they trust Ruby can do this. Ruby fish hooks Ronda’s mouth as she trash talks her. Ruby drags Ronda back up, for a big knee! She wants another spear but Ronda catches it! Gut wrench suplex! Ronda drags Ruby over to a corner and climbs up. Sarah distracts but Ronda swipes at her. Liv does the same, and Ruby kicks Ronda down! SUPER Riott Kick! Cover, TWO!! Ruby is almost in tears as Ronda survives again.

Ruby pushes Ronda to a drop zone and climbs up again. Fans rally for Ronda while Sarah and Liv cheer Ruby on. Ruby leaps, SUPER SENTON into the armbar!! But the Squad saves their leader! So Ronda climbs up top, and LEAPS onto them all! Ruby gets clear and hurries into the ring. Ronda pursues, but runs into headscissors. She denies Nightshade, to Alabama Slam Ruby into buckles! Then leaping armbar takedown! Ruby taps, Ronda wins!

Winner: Ronda Rousey, by submission; still Raw Women’s Champion

The Baddest Woman on the Planet wins again, but then she has to fight off Liv and Sarah! Piper’s Pit for Liv, judo throw for Sarah! Ronda stands tall, will she run through Charlotte Flair at Wrestlemania?

 


 

My Thoughts:

A good Raw tonight, but Lafayette sure was tired for some reason. I expected better reactions for all four surprise NXT stars appearing. It seemed like the fans didn’t know what to make of Gargano and Ciampa, they probably thought it was going to be Velveteen Dream joining Aleister and Ricochet. But the fans aside, each of the NXT superstars had great matches tonight.

I didn’t expect Ricochet to help out Finn, but I’m hoping that means Ricochet will challenge for the Intercontinental Championship if he’s not going to challenge for the NXT North American Championship at TakeOver. Finn and Ricochet worked well together, so I bet they’d have an amazing match against each other. Aleister’s was definitely just filler to annoy Elias, but DIY did great against The Revival. I would love if their first thing on Raw was to truly revive their rivalry with Dash & Dawson from NXT, the Raw Tag Division needs some instant classics to compete with what SmackDown was doing with The Usos and New Day.

We did not need more Baron Corbin VS Braun Strowman. It was great for Strowman to win and Corbin to not have his pack help him, but this didn’t need to happen 24 hours after the No Disqualification match. Corbin can gloat, talk some trash, and Strowman could show up to scare him, and then we save their rematch for later. Heyman’s tributes to Brock Lesnar were well-produced, and Rollins’ response was great. Ambrose was also great for being inconsistent as a character, because that’s how a Lunatic should be. McIntyre VS Ambrose was good, and McIntyre wins to stay strong towards whatever his Mania goal is. He wants Rollins, but I don’t think he’ll get him. McIntyre should go after Cena again and they have a match at Mania.

Ryder & Hawkins got a match tonight, but also another loss. Their story is slowly building, but ironically, Hawkins finally winning can’t be a Wrestlemania moment. He and Ryder need to win to even come close to that match card, and that win would have to happen before that, like at Fastlane. Heavy Machinery and Lacey Evans both have a filler moment just for laughs as they strut on the ramp. Again, I’m thinking Lacey should go to SmackDown to freshen things up and get a title match with Asuka. Honestly, she should’ve just been Ronda’s opponent tonight. Ronda already buried the Riott Squad, tonight was just piling on. Granted, Ruby looked better tonight, but Ronda was just made stronger because she survived two forms of Ruby’s finisher.

Of course, the Riott Squad aren’t getting to challenge Sasha and Bayley first, Nia and Tamina are. I know there was the stretch where it seemed like Sasha and Bayley were only ever facing the Riott Squad, but it’s not like there isn’t a lot of matches where Sasha and Bayley also faced Nia or Tamina. Sasha and Bayley saying they’ll go to all brands, including NXT, I guess that means the way these belts work is that they’ll be multi-branded. Hopefully that means a SmackDown team will challenge them at Fastlane instead for something fresh. That or the Sky Pirates of NXT, Io Shirai and Kairi Sane. Though, I wouldn’t want Sane & Shirai challenging until they were guaranteed to get those belts. Bayley and Sasha are sure to retain all the way to Wrestlemania for something really big.

My Score: 8/10


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Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (3/18/24)

Talk about a Big Time Raw!

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Will The Man be the Last Woman Standing?

Becky Lynch and Nia Jax want to finally put this to an end, so tonight on Raw, it will be a Big Time Last Woman Standing match! Will the Irresistible Force force the WrestleMania 40 match to change?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: #DIY VS The Creed Brothers; DIY wins and advances to WrestleMania.
  • Candice LeRae & Indi Hartwell VS Kayden Carter & Katana Chance; Candice & Indi win.
  • Dominik Mysterio w/ JD McDonagh VS Ricochet; Ricochet wins.
  • Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: The Awesome Truth VS Indus Sher; The Awesome Truth wins and advances to WrestleMania.
  • Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: The New Day VS The Alpha Academy; The New Day wins and advances to WrestleMania.
  • Last Woman Standing: Becky Lynch VS Nia Jax; Becky wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Jey Uso is here!

North Carolina State University fires up and bounces along with Main Event Jey, and Pat McAfee plays a dangerous game standing on the armchairs! From Bret VS Owen to Matt VS Jeff, we’re about to get Jey VS Jimmy in the third-ever Brother VS Brother WrestleMania grudge match! Jey gets the mic as fans chant “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Jey welcomes us to Monday Night Raw, and wants us to check this out. He knows his brothers are somewhere in the building. He knows The Bloodline’s in the building. He knows how the Bloodline rolls! SO Big Brother Jimmy, where you at?! Where you at, Uce!?

Jey waits for someone to show up somewhere, and the crowd spots them first! Fans boo as Jimmy & Solo make their way from the back of the stands. Jimmy gets a mic and goes to the apron while Solo paces around the outside. Fans chant “YEET! YEET! YEET!” again as Jey puts the sunglasses aside. The Usos stare each other down, the fans now chant “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jey wants to say something, hesitates, but then says these two would always get to it but they always knew how to shake right back to this. But now it’s different. Regardless of what happened, the bad blood between them, Jey misses his brother. He does.

Jey knows Jimmy will say what he wants, but Jey doesn’t talk to him no more, doesn’t ride with him no more, doesn’t even see him no more! Jimmy can just come back. Jimmy says he never left! He protected Jey! Jey’s so dumb, he can’t see it! Jimmy is protecting Jey! It was Jey’s idea to leave The Bloodline, but Jimmy helped because he is Jey’s brother. So yeah, Jey leaves, and what happens? Lil’ Bro becomes the BIGGEST star on the Raw roster! Lil’ Bro becomes the top merch seller! Lil’ Bro goes off to become a tag team champion without Jimmy, but with CODY RHODES!? Who left who, Uce?

Jey forgot Jimmy! Everything Jey did that was big was cuz of Big Bro Jimmy! Everything! So listen loud and clear. The biggest moment in Jey’s career, the BIGGEST moment, is because of Jimmy! Jimmy stares Jey down, but Jey says no. Jey’s biggest moment in his career is going to be his dream match at WrestleMania 40: Jey VS Jimmy, and Jey knocks the yeet out Jimmy’s ass! Jey DECKS Jimmy, DECKS Solo off the apron, but then Jimmy SUPERKICKS Jey down! The fans boo but now Solo storms in and looms over Jey. Solo drags Jey up so Jimmy can look him in the face and tell him that Jey needs to get it right! JIMMY made Jey!

But here comes Cody Rhodes! The fans fire up as Cody DECKS Jimmy, then gets in to springboard and CODY CUTTER Solo!! The American Nightmare said he was gonna be a Bloodline Hunter, and he made sure they didn’t take out Jey! Cody tells The Bloodline it is only a matter of time before they lose it all at WrestleMania! Will Jey prove that younger or older doesn’t matter when he is the BETTER brother?

 

Adam Pearce is on the phone.

He’s telling Nick Aldis to stop being a hypocrite, telling Pearce to keep his roster in check when this is happening. But then Paul Heyman walks over and Pearce says he’ll call Aldis back. Pearce then asks Heyman what was all that, and Heyman says he owes Pearce an apology. He is sorry. That was not authorized by The Final Boss nor The Tribal Chief, and certainly not by Heyman. Jimmy & Solo went into business for themselves so Heyman apologizes. But listen, Pearce knows that there have been flight delays all day. Even private jets like theirs. Heyman is barely even dressed for TV, let alone has his make-up!

Pearce says those two were ready. Yeah, well, they got in on a different flight. But Roman Reigns is a chief of his word. Those two are already gone, out of the arena, and Pearce has Roman’s word. Call his bluff, put out a search party. Pearce knows Heyman is here on official business, which Heyman will handle, and then be gone. That is it. But when Heyman does his official business… everyone will be caught off guard. “And Mr. Pearce, sir, that’s not a prediction. That’s a spoiler.” The Wise Man heads out and calls Roman, but just what is Heyman teasing?

 

Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: #DIY VS The Creed Brothers!

Unlike SmackDown’s mini-tournament, Raw and Adam Pearce say it’s win and you’re in! Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano want one more shot at Judgment Day, but so do Julius & Brutus! Will the Sicilian Psycho & Johnny Wrestling prove that when it comes to Mania Moments, you gotta do it yourself? Or will the Creeds be bringing golden tickets to the Diamond Mine?

Raw returns as The Creeds make their entrance. The teams fist bump to show respect, then the teams sort out. Julius starts against Ciampa, they circle and tie up. They’re in a deadlock, Ciampa goes for a waistlock but Julius facelocks. Julius wrangles Ciampa to the mat, flips him over, ONE, and Ciampa keeps moving. They trade facelocks, gator roll, and Julius gets another lateral press. ONE, but Julius gator rolls Ciampa around. Ciampa fights up, puts Julius on ropes, and the ref counts. Ciampa lets off, then CHOPS! Julius shoots in for the takedown! Julius has a leg, Ciampa fights but Julius turns him for the ANKLE LOCK!

Ciampa scrambles to the ROPEBREAK, and Julius lets off cleanly. Ciampa bails out, shakes it off, and he gets back in. They go again, Julius hits a fireman’s carry takeover! Tag to Brutus, and Julius feeds Ciampa to another fireman’s carry takeover! Brutus cording holds but Ciampa endures. Ciampa fights up, but Brutus facelocks. The fans rally as Brutus switches and rolls Ciampa. Ciampa fights up, headlocks, then ROCKS Brutus! Brutus DECKS Ciampa, then whips him to ropes. Ciampa ducks ‘n’ dodges, tag to Gargano! Ciampa slides, CHOPS, Gargano LARIATS and Ciampa JAWBREAKERS! Wrench and LARIAT!

Julius runs in, Gargano kicks and Ciampa gives him the boost for SLICED BREAD! The Creeds bail out, but DIY DOUBLE PLANCHA! Down go the Creeds, and DIY applaud and pat themselves on the back. The fans fire up and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Ciampa has Julius in a chinlock. The fans rally, Julius fights up to throw body shots, but Ciampa hits a back suplex! Julius lands out of it, but Ciampa elbows him away. Ciampa drop toeholds Julius, gets legs, but Julius BOOTS Ciampa away! Hot tags to Gargano and Brutus! Brutus rallies on DIY, TOSSES Gargano, then blocks Ciampa’s kick to get under and POWERBOMB him! Brutus sees DIY regroup, then he runs in to SPLASH them both! O’Conner on Ciampa, but Gargano runs up! NORTHERN LIGHTS! Brutus has a DOUBLE BRIDGE, TWO!! Tag to Julius and he gut wrench SLAMS Brutus on Ciampa!

Brutus helps Julius flip up and over to SPLASH onto Ciampa! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up as Julius drags Ciampa up. Ciampa throat chops! A bit dirty but Ciampa wants that win! Ciampa storms up on Julius, but Julius basement stalling suplexes!! The fans are thunderous, Gargano runs in, but Brutus intercepts! Brutus suplexes Gargano now, stalls, and then the Creeds SLAM and kip up! Then they both STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Ciampa stays in this for DIY but the Creeds keep cool. Julius stomps Ciampa, tags Brutus, and they KNEE Ciampa around! Then they DOUBLE GUTBUSTER! Ciampa sputters but Brutus tags Julius in.

Julius drags Ciampa up, tags Brutus back in, and Brutus climbs. Julius Electric Chair Lifts, but Gargano makes the save! Gargano ROCKS Julius, Brutus ROCKS Gargano! Ciampa BOOTS Brutus, Gargano swings on Julius but is sent into Ciampa! Ciampa pushes Gargano back so he can ELBOW Julius! DIY set up again but Brutus stops the Sliced Bread! Julius DECKS Ciampa, KNEE into the WIDOWMAKER! Julius scrapes Gargano out, Brutus POUNCES Ciampa over the desk! Pat fires up with Brutus and so do the fans! The Creeds say they run this now, and then Brutus drags Ciampa up while Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Julius has Ciampa in a chinlock. Ciampa fights up, and he JAWBREAKERS free! Ciampa ELBOWS Brutus down, BOOTS Julius, then runs up, only for Julius to catch him and toss him back! But then Ciampa catches Julius for a REVERSE DDT! The fans fire up while both men are down and crawling! Hot tag to Gargano! Gargano slingshots to KICK Julius, then he CLOBBERS Brutus! ENZIGIRI for Julius, then he runs to DOUBLE KNEE Brutus! BULLDOG LARIAT COMBO! The fans fire up with Gargano while Julius ends up in another corner. Gargano runs in but is put on the apron!

Gargano GAMANGIRIS Julius, SUPERKICKS Brutus, then SLINGSHOT SPEARS Julius! Cover, TWO! Julius survives but Gargano puts him in a corner. Gargano CHOPS, then hoists Julius up top. Tag to Ciampa, Ciampa CHOPS Julius while Gargano DIVES onto Brutus! Ciampa CHOPS Julius again, goes up top, and fireman’s carries! Ciampa then tucks Julius in for the SUPER AIR RAID CRASH! Cover, TWO!! Julius survives again and shocks Ciampa! The fans are just as stunned, but Ciampa and Julius sit up. Ciampa stands, and he CHOPS! And CHOPS! Julius sits back up as Ciampa puts some stank on the CHOP!

Julius brings the straps down! Julius fires a forearm, Ciampa hits back, and the fans fire up as the shots keep going! They go faster and faster, harder and harder, meaner and meaner! The fans fire up as this just turns into a brawl of haymakers and SLAPS! Ciampa then gets around, ripcord and HAYMAKER! ROLLING- TACKLE from Julius! And then the ANKLE LOCK!! Ciampa reaches out, moves around, but Gargano runs up! Julius kicks him, then gets him up with one arm to POWERBOMB! Then it’s back to the ANKLE LOCK on Ciampa! Brutus gets in to get Gargano for an ANKLE LOCK of his own!

The fans are thunderous as DIY endures! Ciampa and Gargano fight, turn things over, SICILIAN CROSSFACE and GargaNO Escape!! The fans are thunderous as The Creeds power up and lift both DIY! They fireman’s carry, then TOSS DIY into each other!! The fans are thunderous as Julius goes up to MOONSAULT onto Ciampa! Brutus MOONSAULTS, too! Cover, TWO?!?! Ciampa survives and the fans are loving this! Julius tags back in, Brutus climbs up! “This is Awesome!” as Julius Electric Chair Lifts Ciampa! But Ciampa VICTORY ROLLS to get under the Brutus Ball!! Cover, Brutus tips it! Gargano TOSSES Brutus then SUPERKICKS Julius!! Ciampa has the cover, DIY WINS!!

Winners: DIY, by pinfall (advance to WrestleMania)

Julius can’t believe it! He kicked out at 3.1, but a loss is a loss! And for the first time ever, DIY is going to Mania! Will Philadelphia soon be historic for a DIY championship victory?

 

Judgment Day meets backstage.

Rhea Ripley is with Dominik Mysterio, Finn Balor & JD McDonagh, but also Andrade. Dom says he’s always liked Andrade’s style, but things have changed since the last time he was in the WWE. The Judgment Day runs Raw now. Rhea says yeah, and they don’t extend invitations to just anyone. Judgment Day is very exclusive. JD says very exclusive. But if Andrade continues to impress them, they’ll see about making things happen. And Finn says he just heard that Andrade has a match next week, so the Judgment Day will be watching him. Sounds good. See you next week. But then in steps Damian Priest.

The Punisher says hello to El Idolo, and El Idolo says hello to Senor Dinero. Andrade heads out, will he quite literally win his way into the club? But as for Priest, Finn asks him what he was up to. Priest was getting a closer look at that DIY VS Creeds match. DIY won, but whatever, they can handle those guys. But JD, they thought he could handle Ricochet last week, and run the gauntlet, and then go to WrestleMania to bring even more gold back to Judgment Day. JD says he did he belonged in there. But also, he battered Ricochet, who got lucky at the end there. Right, Finn? Finn hesitates, and Rhea says Priest is right on this one.

Ricochet made a fool out of JD! A fool? Yes. A fool? Yes. That’s why tonight, Dom will make it right. Right, Dom? Yeah, Mami. Let’s go talk to Pearce to make it official. Dom & JD head out, and the others are confident Dom’s got this. But does he, though? Or will the One and Only have two wins over Judgment Day in as many weeks?

 

Candice LeRae & Indi Hartwell VS Kayden Carter & Katana Chance!

The Poison Pixie certainly lived up to that name last week when she bullied Maxxine Dupri as part of beating her and Ivy Nile last week. Will Candice’s toxic tongue strike again? Or will the party not be stopped by her harsh vibes?

The teams sort out and Candice starts against Kayden. Candice rushes up, Kayden gets around and O’Conner Rolls, TWO! Kayden springboards to basement dropkick! Cover, TWO! Kayden stalks Candice, Candice ELBOWS her away then tags Indi. Kayden dodges Candice to SUPERKICK, but Indi BOOTS Kayden! Cover, TWO! Indi drags Kayden up, tags Candice back in, and they mug Kayden. Candice CLUBS away on Kayden, fires off furious fists, then covers. TWO, and Candice grows frustrated already. The fans rally, Candice steps up but Kayden avoids the senton! Tags to Katana and Indi! Katana blasts past Indi, comes back and BULLDOGS!

Katana keeps moving, ducks ‘n’ dodges, then SHOTGUNS Indi to a corner! The fans fire up as Katana stomps away on Indi! Indi shoves Katana, Katana runs corner to corner to A-LIST LARIAT! Katana shoves Indi down, runs up, but into a back suplex! Katana lands out, but her leg jams! The ref and Kayden check, then the ref keeps Indi back. Indi says okay, and she stays by Candice. But Candice tags in to WRECK Kayden! And she SLAMS Katana’s leg into the post!! HALF CRAB and DEEP! Katana taps, Candice & Indi win!

Winners: Candice LeRae & Indi Hartwell, by submission

Candice smiles and celebrates with Indi, but Indi doesn’t want to. Candice says a win is a win, but just what is going on in her toxic mind?

 

Cody Rhodes makes his way to the ring.

NC State fires up again as The American Nightmare walks down the ramp, and this time the fans can sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro then gets the mic. “In less than three weeks time, I will stand opposed for the second year in a row, in the main event, with the lights on brightest, I will challenge for the WWE Undisputed Championship, against the greatest champion in all of sports, The Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns. And this Friday on SmackDown, Roman and I are going to have a little conversation, if you will. But there are… complications. Factors, elements, combustible elements, namely… The Rock.”

Fans boo but Cody says The Rock took to Instagram on Friday, and followed it up with “extremely entertaining” concert. Too bad The Rock didn’t wanna be here tonight. Something Cody took from the Instagram post: The Rock referred to himself as “Our Favorite Heel.” A bit of an inside term, but we’re not dumb, we know that means he’s the “bad guy.” Cody has known Heels. Bobby Heenan, Arn Anderson, Michael Hayes, “Superstar” Billy Graham, “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair! Fans “WOO~” and Cody says he doesn’t think The Rock is a Heel. He’s just an assh*le. The fans go nuts hearing that!

Cody doesn’t want Rock getting upset, he doesn’t want the “seven bucks team” to get upset, he doesn’t want anyone getting emotional. Cody knows how Rock feels about emotions, he poked fun at Cody tearing up at discussing “finishing the story” with good friend, Michael Cole. There’s no crying in pro-wrestling, Jimmy Dugan, we get it. But hasn’t The Rock been crying behind the scenes this whole time? Once that hashtag came out, once fans chanted something else, The Rock cried to his buddies on the TKO board and said “Hey, this is gonna be some good PR for The Rock! I need to save WWE!” God knows, look at this house. They sure needed “saving,” huh?

The fans cheer but Cody says Rock wanted great PR. Until it wasn’t. TKO said OMG yes, put on the Gucci shirt, get those muscles looking big. It’s because they are Yes People, they are enablers, they won’t dare tell The Rock like it is, so Cody’s going to. Cody tells The Rock, “You’re a lot of things. You’re a lot of wonderful things. You are the Braham Bull, you are The Great One.” Cody still has shoes with The Rock’s logo on it! The Rock is the only guy Cody honestly feels is a Mount Rushmore wrestler. But he is also a terrible salesman, a carny succubus, and for those who don’t get what that means, The Rock is “a whiny b*tch!”

Fans lose their minds again but Cody says The Rock has been convinced otherwise. But don’t think that for two seconds this locker room needs The Rock more than The Rock needs it! That’s a rule of wrestling, nobody is bigger than the business! And sure, Cody brought up his mom, so it is fair game for The Rock to use that. But Cody knows The Rock’s mom. Here’s what Cody will tell us about The Rock’s mom. She is a wonderful lady, salt of the earth, she helped Cody chop Kevin in a dark match. Cody has nothing but respect for The Rock’s mom, something The Rock should’ve echoed back towards Cody’s mom.

But see, The Rock was talking about whipping Cody, handing a bloody weight belt to Cody’s mom, and normally someone as powerful as The Rock, Mama Rhodes would tremble. But The Rock doesn’t know Cody’s mom. Cody was more scared than she was, because she ain’t scared of nothing. This is the same woman who once jumped out of her chair at a Willie Nelson concert and beat up an undercover cop! She ain’t afraid of The Rock! Cody has been asked, April 6th, biggest tag match of all time, Rock & Roman VS Cody & Seth. Seth Rollins, the World Heavyweight Champion, a man The Rock should respect because that man has carried The Rock’s company!

How will Cody get past that match? How will April 7th look? Will it be a fair fight? Cody can tell us honestly… He doesn’t know. Cody does not know if it will be Bloodline Rules or not. Hell, he might not #FinishTheStory. “But Dwayne… What do you know? How can you be so sure of your own self, right?” The Rock hasn’t been in the ring in real action in years! April 6th, the bell is gonna ring, and what happens then? Is The Rock gonna bring The Great One, the hero we all had growing up? Is he bringing that #BigDwayneEnergy? Or is it gonna be LDS, Little D*ck Syndrome?! The fans chant “L D S! L D S!”

Cody says The Rock has referred to himself as The Final Boss. Kudos for that nickname, maybe he really is that. Maybe Cody is too naive to see it. But at WrestleMania, Cody doesn’t think The Rock will be The Final Boss. At WrestleMania, he’s just Roman’s side chick. But then ladies and gentlemen, his name is Paul Heyman, and he serves as The Wise Man to Your Tribal Chief, the reigning! Defending! Undisputed! WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion, Roman… Reigns! And as Special Counsel to the Bloodline, Heyman is here to say to Cody that the ideals that Cody and Heyman share are far greater than the interests on which they conflict.

By example, don’t you hate it when someone comes out to demand an apology? Not that Cody’s done that, but Heyman is still going to do that. Heyman came out here with some “friends” of his, and he apologized. For a Wise Man, that was pretty freakin’ stupid. One: because it didn’t work. Two: because it was just dumb. And for that, Cody, to you and the fans, Heyman humbly apologizes. Cody says whoa, whoa, whoa. He didn’t ask for an apology, and he certainly knows Heyman wants permission to be in the ring. Heyman is a Hall of Famer starting this year, if he wants into the ring, be Cody’s guest.

Heyman thanks Cody for that but he’s fine on the apron. He carries with him a message from The Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns. Talk about Heels… You may think of Heyman anything negative you want, and that might be understanding the obvious. Heyman is not trustworthy, but Roman is a chief of his word. Heyman assures that this Friday on SmackDown, Roman will be face to face with Cody. American Nightmare, Tribal Chief, challenger and champion. And when they are face to face, there will not be a single other member of The Bloodline in sight. Except for Heyman, but he is no physical threat.

Heyman holds the title belt, the beads, whispers things in Roman’s ear, such as his love and respect. But Cody has Roman’s word that if he shows up on SmackDown, Roman will show up alone. Cody says Roman shows up alone, no Bloodline outside of Heyman, it’s a deal. They good? Heyman has some jet lag, he forgot one little point. And don’t boo him, he’s talking to Cody! Cody says yes they’re booing, and he’s about to go full Homelander and rip Heyman’s throat out if he doesn’t get to the point. Fans like the reference. Heyman composes himself and says if Roman Reigns shows up alone this Friday on SmackDown, then Cody must show up to SmackDown alone, too.

Cody steps closer to Heyman and Heyman is a bit nervous. Cody tells Heyman, “Deal!” They shake hands, and Heyman smiles. The Wise Man negotiated a purely one-on-one meeting between his Tribal Chief and American Nightmare, but can we trust Heyman was telling the truth about Roman telling the truth?

 

Nia Jax speaks.

“You know what I’ve realized? Becky Lynch has never beaten me. And after tonight, she never will. Because after I break her face again, I will be taking her spot at WrestleMania. I will finish business with Rhea Ripley, and not only will I walk out the Last Woman Standing, but I will become Women’s World Champion.” The Irresistible Force is ready for the Big Time, but will she A-Nia-late her?

 

Cody Rhodes returns backstage.

And Jey says there he go! But real quick, Cody can’t be going to SmackDown alone. Cody says he gave them his word. But The Bloodline isn’t gonna play fair! They’re all gonna be there! If Cody needs Jey, Jeys’ got him. Cody hears that, but he knows what he’s dealing with. They shake hands and Jey heads out. Will Cody be able to have that fair, one-on-one meeting? Or does Jey have a point about The Bloodline?

 

Dominik Mysterio w/ JD McDonagh VS Ricochet!

It seems Pearce agreed to the idea that Dirty Dom should try and clean up The Irish Ace’s mess. Will Dom be able to get revenge on Ricochet? Or will Ricochet be the One and Only person holding their head high tonight?

Raw returns and Dom has made his entrance. The bell rings, Dom and Ricochet circle, and they tie up. Ricochet waistlocks, Dom fights the lift and grabs ropes. The ref counts, Ricochet lets off, but Dom ELBOWS him away! Dom fires hands, soaks up the heat, then storms up, but into haymakers! Ricochet CHOPS, kicks then flexes on Dom. Ricochet whips, Dom reverses, but Ricochet goes up and over. Ricochet ducks ‘n’ dodges to then handspring back elbow! The fans fire up while Dom bails out! JD is there to coach Dom up, but Ricochet runs in! JD gets Dom to safety, but Ricochet handsprings to hero land!

The fans fire up, Ricochet then goes to ropes to TORNILLO PLANCHA! Direct hit on Dom and Ricochet tells JD to back off. Ricochet puts Dom in, Dom distracts the ref, but JD grabs Ricochet’s leg! Ricochet kicks JD away, but then Dom WRECKS Ricochet with a dropkick! Dom soaks up the heat and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Dom has Ricochet up top. Dom climbs but Ricochet throws body shots! The fans rally behind Ricochet as he sends Dom staggering. Ricochet hops down as Dom comes running back, and Ricochet GAMANGIRIS him away! Ricochet then springboards, but Dom trips him up! Ricochet flops to the mat, then Dom kicks and FACEBUSTERS! Cover, TWO! Ricochet is still in this and JD argues the count. Dom looms over Ricochet, scuffs him around, then mockingly cheers him on. Fans boo but Dom brings Ricochet up. Dom gives some Latino Heat, then suplexes! Uno Amigo, but fans boo.

Dom gets Ricochet up but Ricochet suplexes Dom instead! And then fireman’s carry, DYNAMITE KICK! Cover, TWO! Dom is still in this and JD coaches him but the fans rally for Ricochet. Ricochet stands, storms up on Dom, but Dom shoots around to roll him up! With tights! TWO, Ricochet blocks a kick and KICKS Dom down! Ricochet hurries up top, the fans fire up, but Ricochet has to bail out of the 450 as Dom moves! Dom runs in again, but into a SUPERKICK! JD gets on the apron, so Ricochet triangle jump DROPKICKS! But then Dom DROPKICKS Ricochet onto ropes! Dom dials it up but Ricochet ducks!

Dom spins around, into the RECOIL!! Cover, Ricochet wins!

Winner: Ricochet, by pinfall

But then JD runs in! Ricochet dodges, goes up and around, BOOTS JD away, then BOOTS him again! Ricochet even flips up and out of the ring at the same time! Ricochet gets the better of Judgment Day again, just how disappointed is Mami going to be in her Latino Heat this time?

 

Sami Zayn is backstage.

He finds Chad Gable and wants to talk with him. Last week’s match, that was an honor. Sami hasn’t been pushed like that in a long time, it could’ve gone either way. Gable says yeah, it was great. Thanks. Is Gable alright? Yeah, he’s fine. Kinda feels like not… Gable says he’s fine, so leave it at that. C’mon, man, how many years have they known each other? Sami knows when something’s bothering Gable, so he should just say it. Gable says look, last week, the WrestleMania opportunity, the whole thing, it just meant more to him. Sami says he’s been hearing Gable say that for weeks, and it is really unfair.

Does Gable really think he’s the only one this title opportunity matters to? Sami has a family, too! Sami’s kid cries when Papa loses a match, too. Sami has people he’s let down and is trying to make proud. After all the years put into this, Gable can’t tell Sami what matters more because he doesn’t know Sami like that. Gable has Sami calm down, and says he knows all that. But it isn’t all about that. Then what is all this? Gable says Sami can’t beat Gunther. Gable then leaves, and Sami is at a loss for words. Is this bitter side of Gable only going to get worse as we go down this Road to WrestleMania?

 

Adam Pearce is in the ring.

Raw returns with the GM by a table, and he welcomes us to a contract signing to make official the Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship for WrestleMania! The fans cheer, and Pearce introduces first, the challenger, Sami Zayn! The Great Liberator makes his entrance and the fans sing along with his song. Sami still looks troubled by what Gable said just moments ago, but he still high-fives fans and gets in the ring. Then Pearce introduces the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion of all time, Der Ring General, GUNTHER! The fans boo as Gunther walks in, having reached Day 647!

Gunther smiles as Sami watches him make his way down the ramp and into the ring. Pearce says we know how this works, but Gunther says before we proceed, let us call this what it is: the most important contract signing for the most important match in the history of this championship. And why, why, why is the challenger dressed no better than any of the bums in the audience? Fans boo but Sami just shrugs that off. Sami gets a mic to say that Gunther keeps sitting there all smug, and it’s really starting to piss Sami off. Gunther thinks this is just another day at the office, that he’ll steamroll through Sami like any other contender.

But with all respect to Gunther, he really has. He has beaten everyone that has come his way, and has done it on his own. Gunther doesn’t believe Sami can do it. A lot of people didn’t believe Sami at many points in his career. They didn’t believe he’d even make it to WWE, let alone win championships and main event a WrestleMania. And if you ask The Usos, they didn’t believe Sami would be one of the guys to end the longest tag title reign in WWE history, but he did! And one year later, he will make history again by ending the longest Intercontinental title reign in WWE history! Sami signs his part and pushes the contract over to Gunther.

The fans cheer Sami on but Gunther waits it out. Gunther tells Sami, what Sami should do is listen to his new friend, Gable. Gable doesn’t believe Sami can win. The people here cheer Sami, they probably even love Sami. But even they don’t believe Sami can win. And y’know, when Gunther looks Sami in the eyes, and if Sami was honest with himself, even Sami doesn’t believe he can win. So what Sami is doing right now is standing on Gunther’s doorstep and begging him to get the beating of a lifetime on the Grandest Stage of Them All! So whatever Sami has to do, from training to believing, just keep doing that. Because at WrestleMania, Sami’s dreams will meet reality.

Gunther grins and signs his part, and it is now official! Gunther then stands, title on his shoulder, and takes his leave. The fans boo, but then Sami tells Gunther to wait. Gunther steps back inside to hear Sami as Sami turns around. Gunther looks in Sami’s eyes and believes Sami doesn’t believe? Sami stands to get in Gunther’s face and dares him to look again. Get a good long look, because these are the eyes of the man who will take you down at Mania! The fans fire up, and now Sami leaves first. Gunther still just grins, but will Sami use a Helluva Kick to wipe that smile off his face?

We follow Sami as he storms backstage, right past DIY and The Awesome Truth. Truth asks what’s up with Sami, but The Miz says that is the mindset of WrestleMania right there. That’s what they need. DIY wishes Awesome Truth luck. Awesome Truth knows DIY is into the ladder match, and they are gonna have their own qualifier. Miz & Truth just need to beat… Indus Sher. Jinder Mahal tells Veer & Sanga to warm up for the match. They head out, and Truth says he feels sorry for whoever has to face those guys. Miz stares at Truth, and he has DIY hold off. Miz will explain. The Awesome Truth heads to gorilla, their match is next!

Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: The Awesome Truth VS Indus Sher w/ Jinder Mahal!

Miz wants a remix of the theme song but Truth says to just follow his lead. NC State knows what’s up, but will the Awesome Truth finally reach the top of the tag division 13 years after they first teamed? We’ll see, after the break!

Raw returns as Indus Sher makes their entrance, the Modern Day Maharaja by their side. The teams sort out and Truth starts against Sanga. The fans echo “WHAT’S UP?!” but Sanga roars! Truth is scared now so he tags Miz. Truth fires Miz up, Miz runs up and dodges Sanga to fire off haymakers! Miz kicks, whips, but Sanga blocks! Sanga whips and CLOBBERS Miz! Jinder nods as Sanga then scoops Miz and brings him over. Veer tags in, Sanga SLAMS Miz, then Veer ELBOW DROPS! Indus Sher say “NAMASTE!” but the fans say “WHAT’S UP!?” with Truth. Veer HIP DROPS Miz, then looms over him.

Veer eggs Miz on, drags him up with shoulder claws, and then steps over Miz for the neck wrench! Miz endures as Veer still digs a claw into his shoulder. The fans rally for Miz, Miz fights up and throws body shots! Miz reaches out but Veer knees low! Veer SHOVES Miz to the corner, runs in, but Miz BOOTS! Miz ELBOWS Sanga, but Veer catches him! Veer puts Miz back int he corner, but Miz ducks the boot to tag Truth! Truth dodges Veer and starts up the shoulder tackles! Truth gets around Veer to SPIN-OUT BOMB! The fans fire up as Truth shouts out Cena with “You Can’t See Me!” Truth runs to Five Knuckle Shuffle!

Jinder is not happy now as Truth fireman’s carries! But Veer slips free! Truth drop toeholds to the STF!! The fans fire up but Sanga stomps Truth! Miz fires off kicks on Sanga, then body shots! Truth joins in, they mug and whip Sanga, to DOUBLE DROPKICK! Sanga staggers around, Veer runs up, but into a full nelson! Truth and Miz combine for a SKULL CRUSHING LIE DETECTOR!! But Sanga whips Miz away! Miz WRECKS Jinder with it, but Sanga runs up! Sanga knocks Miz down, Miz anchors Sanga, Sanga ELBOWS Truth, Truth falls onto Veer for the cover! Awesome Truth wins!!

Winners: The Awesome Truth, by pinfall (advance to WrestleMania)

The fans fire up, and Truth doesn’t even realize what happened! Miz celebrates with Truth and Truth puts it together! They’re now one of the six in the ladder match! Will this combination of teamwork and luck be just what they need to take those titles from Judgment Day?

 

Sami confronts Gable now.

Sami tells Gable to tell him why. Why what? Why does Gable think Sami can’t beat Gunther? Well you just saw why! With Gunther, it isn’t just physical, it is mental. Sami made his career out of being the underdog that crawls his way out of any hole he’s in, right? Just like last week! Sami found the window of opportunity to get out of a bad situation any time he can. Gunther’s on a different level! You gonna sit and wait for that window to appear? It doesn’t happen with Gunther! He’s a different beast, a different animal. If Sami doesn’t change his mentality, then he can’t beat Gunther. Gable leaves Sami with a lot to think again. Is there a way Sami can change enough to defeat Der Ring General?

 

CM Punk speaks.

“Do I plan at being in WrestleMania? WrestleMania is in Philadelphia, what’re the first four letters in Philadelphia? Phil. You can’t have WrestleMania Philadelphia without Phil. Whether I’m invited or uninvited, Punk will be there.” And next week in Chicago, Punk returns to Raw! Will the Second City Saint find a way to be part of the biggest WrestleMania ever?

 

Drew McIntyre is here!

The Scottish Terminator, or as his new shirt says, “The Savior of WrestleMania,” makes his way to the ring, NC State a bit torn about seeing him. But then Seth Rollins is here, too!? McIntyre is upset but the fans sing along, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” as The Visionary struts his way out. Rollins swaggers right past McIntyre in his green storm pattern suit, and steps into the ring first. McIntyre frowns as he follows Rollins in, and sits in a corner. The fans continue to sing, which Rollins revels in for a moment. Rollins has the mic to then say, “RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA~! Welcome to Monday Night Rollins~!

“And Drew, hah, sorry, I didn’t even see you there. I was too busy, uh, y’know, soaking up the spotlight, right?” McIntyre has a mic to say, “Alright, here we go.” Here goes what, Drew? McIntyre says no, no, get it all out of your system, he knows Rollins has more! McIntyre can stay in the back while Rollins enjoys the spotlight, because after WrestleMania, that spotlight’s all McIntyre’s. Hey, hey, c’mon. Rollins is here with an honest cause. Rollins doesn’t like McIntyre, he thinks he’s stupid, a hypocrite, has said a lot of dumb things lately, but Rollins is here to admit that one thing McIntyre said is absolutely right and he wants to say it to McIntyre’s face, right here in Raleigh, in front of the fine people.

Now, they always say the first step to recovery is the hardest, so bare with Rollins. He has been working on this all week, but… “My name is Seth Freakin’ Rollins, and I’m a spotlight junkie.” The fans chant “Spotlight Junkie!” and also sing, but McIntyre says everything is just a joke to Rollins, isn’t it? Look at Rollins! He’s a parody of himself at this point. But honestly, McIntyre doesn’t care. He tried reasoning, he gave the answers, and now he only cares about their match and the world title. And you wanna know the real punchline, funny man? “What?” McIntyre says they say that because they’re happy McIntyre sidelined Punk, thanks for remembering!

But the punchline is when McIntyre beats Rollins for that title. The fans chant for “C M PUNK!” but McIntyre says don’t be ridiculous. Punk’s waiting until next week to return because he’d never show up in a place like Raleigh. The fans boo but McIntyre says see, they’re booing Punk! Punk is only getting off his couch to be at his local arena. Rollins tells McIntyre to shut up already. Oh, seems McIntyre got Rollins’ attention. Rollins takes off the sunglasses to say yeah, McIntyre has his attention. Because this isn’t a joke! When Rollins says he is a junkie, it isn’t a joke! He’s been doing this for 20 YEARS! Just like McIntyre!

And every time Rollins comes out of the curtain, that’s his fix. And it gets better and better every single time. Rollins comes out here, lays it all on the line, and it just gets better and better! When he hears the fans sing the song so loud, Rollins can barely speak, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” That’s Rollins’ fix! That is the spotlight he craves, and y’know what? Rollins wants the spotlight as bright as it can possibly be. So yeah, McIntyre’s been busy online entertaining people with memes, so he hasn’t been listening to Rollins. So Rollins will get this through McIntyre’s thick skull: Night One, Rollins takes the biggest star in Hollywood and his side chick, and makes them his b*tches!

Then on Night Two, the biggest spotlight possible will be shined down on McIntyre and Rollins and the World Heavyweight Championship! McIntyre says all hail the savior, Seth Rollins! This is what McIntyre wanted! The passion and desire, not the stupid laughing and dancing. Rollins had McIntyre all the way to the finish. Rollins has done this 20 years, just like McIntyre. They’ve given their lives to this industry, and that is what the title is about! The wrestlers’ title, the workhorse championship! Rollins had McIntyre with him until he mentioned the bigger spotlight and how Rollins pins one of the biggest stars in the world.

Why can’t it just be about Rollins’ hard work to make that title, and all of McIntyre’s hard work to get this chance? Why can’t that be the reason they’re getting the biggest spotlight!? Rollins has had his priorities all backwards, McIntyre has been giving him all the answers. McIntyre said he is over the BS, and all he cares about is Rollins making it to the ring on Night Two. And if Rollins can’t walk, then McIntyre will wheel him down. If not, McIntyre will carry Rollins down. At Mania, McIntyre doesn’t get the moment he deserves. He gets the moment he has bloody EARNED. The fans do cheer that!

Rollins smirks and says, “Ah, Drew. There it is. That’s right, you wanna call me a spotlight junkie, but you want the spotlight just as bad as I do, don’t you? You’re an addict, just like I am. And you’ve been begging for spotlight for the past four years, because you won the WrestleMania main event. You did, back in 2020, in an empty warehouse. And all we’ve been hearing from Drew McIntyre for the past four years was how that wasn’t good enough. You’ve been whining and complaining and bitching and moaning that you deserve better, that you deserve more. The problem is, Drew, when everybody came back around, and the lights got bright again, what happened? You fumbled the ball.

“And that’s the difference between you and me. When the lights are the brightest, I shine, baby. I shine bright. And at WrestleMania 40, the lights are gonna be as bright as they have ever been. And you are gonna find out you are not as good as you think you are.” Rollins drops the mic, but this time McIntyre smirks. The verbal battle continues, but who will put their money where their mouth is once this one finally happens?

 

Becky Lynch speaks.

“I’m a wanted woman, and I don’t even have the title. Yet. But we’re less than three weeks away from WrestleMania, so why would I risk it all? Because I don’t know anything else. All I know is taking risks. All I know is fighting. And all I know is tonight, I’m gonna be the Last Woman Standing.” Becky is fired up to finally do what she hasn’t done in the most extreme way possible. Will she be the immovable object to Nia’s irresistible force?

 

Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: The New Day VS The Alpha Academy!

Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods have been W, W, E, World, Tag, Team, CHAMPIONS~, but they’ve never been a part of a title match as big as this Six Pack Ladder challenge! Will they look to be part of history once again? Or will Akira Tozawa & Otis say “A THANK YEW~!” for this golden opportunity?

Raw returns as the Academy makes their entrance. The teams sort out and Woods starts against the tree trunk, Otis. The fans rally for “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” Otis and Woods tie up, but Woods kicks low then headlocks. Otis powers up and out then runs Woods over! Otis storms up on Woods, GUT RAMS him back down, then brings him back up. Otis GUT RAMS Woods again, then runs to CLOBBER Woods! Otis swivels his hips, the fans echo “Oh~ yeah!” Otis tags Tozawa and the Academy mugs Woods. Tozawa brings Woods around but Woods CHOPS! Woods tags Kofi, he and Kofi double whip Tozawa but Tozawa holds ropes!

Tozawa fires hands, dodges Woods then BOOTS Woods down! Kofi kicks low, whips Tozawa to a corner, but Tozawa BOOTS Kofi away! Tozawa goes up to FLYING RANA! The fans fire up as Tozawa sees New Day regroup outside. Tozawa runs to DIVE! Direct hit on both New Day, and Otis joins in for “A THANK YEW~!” The Academy stands tall as Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Tozawa fights a chinlock. Tozawa reaches for Otis but Woods back suplexes. Tozawa lands out to then DROPKICK Woods down! The fans rally as Woods and Tozawa crawl, hot tags to Otis and Kofi! Otis CLOBBERS Kofi, CLOBBERS him again, then whips him to ropes. WRECKER ELBOW! Woods runs in, Otis dodges, to LARIAT! Otis sees Kofi leap off the corner, and catches him for a WORLD’S STRONGEST SLAM! Otis rips the shirt off, winds up the hips, and then starts up the CATERPILLAR! ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Kofi survives but Otis hurries to step on him! Tag to Tozawa, and Otis goes up!

Otis VADER BOMBS but FLOPS as Kofi moves! Tozawa hurries up top while Kofi SUPERKICKS Otis! Kofi turns around into the CROSSBODY from Tozawa! Cover, TWO! Tozawa SUPERKICKS Kofi but Woods tags in! Woods GAMANGIRIS Tozawa, then steps in to TORNADO DDT! Cover, TWO! Tozawa toughs it out but Woods grits his teeth as he goes to the corner. Woods climbs, but Tozawa rises! Tozawa throws body shots, Woods CLUBS Tozawa! Tozawa throws more hands and climbs up! The fans rally as they brawl up top! Tozawa brings Woods up but Woods fights the lift! Woods throws body shots in return!

Woods shifts position to get under Tozawa for a fireman’s carry! But then Tozawa pops up to SUPER STEINER!! Tozawa rips off his shirt, climbs back up top, SUPER SENTON!! Cover, Kofi breaks it! The fans fire up but Otis drags Kofi out! Otis whips Kofi at steps, Kofi goes up and jumps off the steps to TORNADO DDT to the floor! Kofi hurries back up to the apron but Tozawa SCREW HIGH KICKS him down! Tozawa dodges Woods, pop-up, but Woods blocks the rana to then SPINNING POWERBOMB! Woods sees the WrestleMania sign, hurries up the corner, and he tightrope walks! LIMIT BREAK ELBOW!! Cover, New Day wins!

Winners: The New Day, by pinfall (advance to WrestleMania)

The New Day are the ones saying A THANK YEW~ as they put their names down for the Six Pack Ladder Match! Will they once again climb to the top of the WWE Tag Team Division and bring home those championships?

 

Liv Morgan confronts Becky Lynch.

Becky asks if she’ll have to watch out for Liv as well. Well, you should always #WatchMe, but no, not tonight. Nia is all Becky’s. Liv just wants Becky to kick Nia’s ass. Liv leaves, will Becky kick ass and then some?

 

Cody walks with his dog, Pharaoh, backstage.

Rollins finds him and brings up Friday. One on one? One on one. Rollins nods and says he loves Pharaoh’s bandanna. The Visionary trusts the American Nightmare can handle himself, but will we be able to trust The Tribal Chief?

 

Last Woman Standing: Becky Lynch VS Nia Jax!

From the origins of “The Man” in WWE to the aftermath of Elimination Chamber: Perth, these two have battled, but never as brutally as this! They’re able to go anywhere and do anything, but who will be the Last Woman Standing this close to WrestleMania 40?

The bell rings and the two rush in! Becky DROPKICKS Nia and Nia goes to a corner. Becky runs in but Nia puts Becky on the apron. Becky ROCKS Nia, goes up a corner, then leaps to MISSILE DROPKCIK! Nia stumbles and tumbles out of the ring, so Becky WRECKS her with another dropkick! Becky then goes to the apron for a FLYING FOREARM! Nia stays up, Becky tries again, but Nia dodges! Fireman’s carry and Nia POSTS Becky, to then SAMOAN DROP her into barriers! The ref counts as Becky is down, but she stands at 4 of 10. Nia CLOBBERS Becky and wants the count! The count climbs but Nia is impatient.

Nia clears off the desk, Becky stands at 5 of 10, and she leans against barriers. Becky comes back with body shots and haymakers, but Nia ROCKS her with a forearm! Becky staggers away as Raw goes to break!

Raw returns and Becky is bringing out a table! The fans fire up as Becky sets that up ringside. There’s been a lot of chaos during the break according to commentary, from chairs to kendo sticks to even a copy of Becky’s book, The Man: Not Your Average Average Girl! But Nia storms over to stop Becky and SMACK her off the desk! Nia puts Becky in the ring, takes that table for her own and sets it up. The table doesn’t cooperate and fans boo, but Nia goes for chairs instead. She slides those in the ring, Becky manages to stand at 7 of 10, and she grabs at those chairs. Nia ditches the table, it just doesn’t wanna work.

Nia storms in but Becky JAMS her with a chair, SMACKS her with it, then clinches! Nia fights the slam, fireman’s carries Becky, and FULL METAL SAMOAN DROPS!! Becky writhes from hitting chairs but Nia looms over her. Nia soaks up the heat as she counts along. Becky flounders to ropes and drags herself up at 7! Nia sits a chair up, fans want a table, but Nia scoops Becky. Becky slips around to a SLEEPER! Nia RAMS Becky into buckles again and again until Becky lets go. But then Becky BULLDOGS Nia off the chair! Nia is down for the count now, and Becky leans against ropes to stay up herself.

Nia stirs at 5, stands at 8, but Becky is up top! Becky leaps, into a CHAIR SHOT! Nia SMACKS Becky again and again and again! The fans boo but Nia finally stops. Nia puts that chair aside and goes out to get some kendo sticks! Nia puts those in, but Becky grabs one! Nia snatches it from her to SMACK! And SMACK! And SMACK! Becky sputters and staggers, Nia clinches and scoops! Nia SLAMS Becky onto chairs! Then Nia runs to drop the leg, brother! Nia wants the count and the count begins! Becky sputters as we reach 5 of 10. Becky grabs that kendo stick but Nia SMACKS Becky with a chair! And again!

Nia kicks Becky around, then uses the chair to take a seat on Becky’s body!! The fans boo as the count begins, but Becky SMACKS Nia with the kendo stick! And again and again and again, even in the butt! Nia stands up, into more shots! Becky stands and she fires away until Nia scurries out of the ring! Becky pursues but Nia CLOBBERS her! Nia pulls the steel steps apart now, and takes that top half to RAM Becky down! Becky flounders, Nia hauls her up and puts her in the ring. Becky’s on the apron and Nia takes aim! Nia runs up, APRN LEG DROP only gets apron! Becky avoids disaster, then has Nia by the steps! DDT onto the steel!

Nia is down again and the count begins. Nia stirs at 5 of 10, sits up at 6, but Becky SMACKS her off steps! Nia falls over again and the count resets. Becky hurries to go looking for things while Nia rises again. Becky has a new table! The fans fire up as Becky gets that in the ring. Nia stands at 7, staggers after Becky, and Raw goes back to break.

Raw returns once again and Nia mugs Becky against barriers! Nia puts Becky on a table, and surprise! There’s a ladder set up now! Nia climbs the ladder?! She also demands Pat support the ladder. But Becky gets off the table so now Nia has no reason to be up there. Nia storms after Becky, but gets a FIRE EXTINGUISHER BLAST!! The fans fire up as Becky cools Nia off, then JAMS her with the canister! Becky puts Nia in the ring, and there’s a table waiting in a corner! Becky lines up the shot, and runs in, but Nia SAMOAN DROPS Becky through the table!!! Both women are down in the wreckage and the count begins!

Nia flounders away from the wreckage but she still needs to stand. Nia is up at 5, and she isn’t satisfied with this! She drags Becky all the way to another corner and puts her in the drop zone! Nia climbs up, for the A-NIA-LATOR!! Nia shouts for the count, the count begins, and Nia storms around as she points to the Mania sign. Becky is still down at 5 of 10, only starts stirring at 7, and she slumps out of the ring to stand up! Nia is furious, goes out after Becky, and kicks things aside to keep after her. Nia asks if Becky’s vision is blurry. Nia fireman’s carries Becky up the steel steps and along the apron, aiming for that other table!

The fans freak out but Becky fights with elbows! Becky CLUBS away on Nia and the fans are thunderous! Becky then clinches, for a MANHANDLE SLAM through the table!!! Both women are down int he wreckage again, and the count begins! Becky sits up at 4 while fans are still losing their minds! We pass 5 of 10, then 7! Nia sits up at 8 and stands at 9! But then she slumps back over! The count starts again, Nia flounders around and stands at 5. Becky goes up the ladder! Becky sees Nia approaching the desk, and then SUPER MAN’S LEG DROP through the desk!!! The fans lose their minds again while both men are down in more wreckage!

The count is 5 of 10! Becky flounders and crawls, drags herself up at 9, but Nia is still down! BECKY WINS!!

Winner: Becky Lynch

The Man conquers truly one of the most intense challenges in her career! But then here comes one of the most intense champions! The fans fire up as Rhea Ripley makes her way out, Women’s World Championship in hand. She goes right to the ring and looks at Becky. Rhea “congratulates” Becky for winning, but then Becky gets in Rhea’s face! The fans fire up, and now there are no obstacles in the way of Mami VS The Man! Who will be the champion after WrestleMania 40?


My Thoughts:

A great Raw right here, though the in-ring action kinda dipped down until that awesome Last Woman Standing main event. This is one of the times I wish they’d done picture in picture so we as the TV audience could see even more action. Great win for Becky, of course, but I also like that Becky had a moment with Liv just before, and of course she had a moment with Rhea to close out the night. Great promos with Sami and Gable that also blended into the contract signing from tonight. And I suppose Gable has a point that Sami, the comeback kid, can’t do that when Gunther has an arsenal of moves that would be “finishers” given all the different ways Gunther has won over the years.

And speaking of that contract signing segment, I really liked the segue they did in following Sami so that he’d cross paths with Awesome Truth at gorilla and we’d get their segment going into their match. WWE has been doing some really creative stuff in this newest era where Vince is truly out and apparently even Kevin Dunn has moved on. Awesome Truth had a really fun but also really quick tag match with Indus Sher, and then New Day VS Alpha Academy was solid stuff, but DIY VS Creeds was such an awesome match. For a moment, I thought Creeds were gonna take this one but DIY still found a way, and I like that DIY is in. Honestly, I’m liking that the HHH favorites are getting in, because we also have New Catch Republic on the other side that can still win into the match.

Judgment Day had good stuff tonight, too. Good group promo with Andrade to tease El Idolo possibly joining, but who knows if he does. Depends on how things go for Priest. He was watching the qualifiers, he’s not worried, but maybe he should be. Granted, he still has the MITB briefcase, he could go from losing the tag titles to taking the world title, who knows how the Judgment Day’s story is going to go as we move past Mania. Dom VS Ricochet was a really good match, and Ricochet winning was the right move to keep this feud going. I think there’s going to be Ricochet VS McDonagh next week as a rematch from the gauntlet, that’ll be great stuff, too.

Candice’s Heel turn slow burn continues as she takes advantage of the “hurt” leg. Indi also does a good job of being very conflicted about this. There’s a WWE YouTube exclusive where Ivy Nile confronts Candice so that’ll be a match, and then maybe when Candice again goes too far, Indi steps in and we get a match of Candice VS Indi at some point. Good little update promo from CM Punk, he’ll have a great homecoming moment in Chicago, but also probably McIntyre coming after him. McIntyre had a great promo segment with Rollins, and with all these continued moments where the other person gets the mic drop moment, it feels like McIntyre has to win the title.

And of course, great stuff with the Bloodline story even on Raw. Jey and Jimmy have great promos in their confrontation, and of course it turns into a brawl. Good segue from that to Heyman being here, and Heyman confronting Cody during Cody’s great promo segment. Cody really went off on The Rock, that was some wild stuff. But the supposed promise of “one on one and no one else aside from Heyman” might be kept, and we get a strong promo segment on SmackDown in a foreshadowing of the fair-and-square 1v1 match. Or it is a trap and that’s more a foreshadowing of Bloodline Rules where they can do whatever they want. Guess we’ll have to wait and see.

My Score: 8.9/10


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Mitchell’s NJPW New Japan Cup Results & Report! (3/18/24)

The semifinals are here!

Published

on

We’re just one step away from the Cup!

Cold Skull faces The Fierce Warrior, and Gene Blast faces The King of Darkness, and when the smoke clears, we will have our New Japan Cup finalists!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Boltin Oleg & Shoma Kato VS Zack Sabre Jr. & Mikey Nicholls; ZSJ & Mikey win.
  • Six Man Tag: El Desperado, Tomohiro Ishii & Togi Makabe VS Just5Guys; Just5Guys win.
  • Tanga Loa & Ryusuke Taguchi VS Great-O-Khan & Callum Newman; Loa & Taguchi win.
  • Six Man Tag: YOSHI-HASHI, Toru Yano & Hiroyoshi Tenzan VS Bullet Club; Bullet Club wins.
  • 8 Man Tag: Shota Umino, El Phantasmo, Hikuleo & YOH VS The House of Torture; Shota, ELP, Leo & Yoh win.
  • Six Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS The United Empire; LIJ wins.
  • 2024 New Japan Cup Semifinals: Yota Tsuji VS EVIL; Tsuji wins and advances to the finals.
  • 2024 New Japan Cup Semifinals: SANADA VS Hirooki Goto; Goto wins and advances to the finals.

PLAY BY PLAY

2024 New Japan Cup Semifinals: Yota Tsuji VS EVIL w/ Dick Togo!

The Gene Blast overcame the tricks Ren Narita tried, but that’s because the House of Torture was saving all the good stuff so they could slay the Rampaging Dragon. Will the deck be even more stacked to make sure Everything is Evil’s? Or will Yota be one step away from LIJ VS LIJ at Sakura Genesis?

Well, Dick is making his way out here, but where is Evil? Oh, there he is. No tricks just yet it seems. But then Yota DIVES onto Evil! The fans fire up but Dick attacks Yota! Dick whips, Yota stops himself, and then scoops Dick for a BACKBREAKER! The fans fire up and Yota wants the bell. The ref says yes, ring the bell, and this is on the record! Yota stomps and CLUBS Evil, then whips, but Evil reverses! Yota hits railing, and then Evil whips him into more railing! Evil CHOKES Yota against the railing, Yota fights back, but the ref gets knocked aside! Evil puts Yota in so he and Dick can stomp away!

The fans boo but here comes the rest of the House already! Narita, Yujiro, Kanemaru and Jack all stomp away on Yota, but here come Bushi & Hiromu! It’s a replay of yesterday as LIJ fights off the House, but the numbers are still against them! The ref rushes in to tell everyone to stop! Evil shoves the ref out of the ring, Yota fires off on him, but Evil CLAWS Yota’s eyes! The House CHOKES LIJ, but the ref says stop! The bell rings, but what is the decision!? NO CONTEST!?

No Contest

What does this mean!? Someone has to advance, right? The finals aren’t until the 20th, how can there be a no contest? The House started this, where’re the consequences?! Yota gets up but Evil TOSSES him back out! LIJ regroups and Yota asks for a mic. Yota tells Evil that he’s sick and tired of this! They ARE gonna finish this match! The fans like the sound of that! All the refs come out, including Red Shoes, to discuss how this will be handled. For starters, they tell all the extras to get outta here! LIJ is cool with that, and Hiromu tells the House to come along. Evil says fine, and Jack, Kanemaru, Narita, Yujiro and even Dick reluctantly exit.

The announcement is officially made, and the bell rings! Yota and Evil rush in, Evil kicks low but Yota CLUBS away on Evil! Evil CLAWS the eyes! Evil kicks, runs, RAMS, but Yota rebounds to run Evil over! Then run and SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Yota fires up and the fans are with him! Evil bails out but the fans rally for Yota. Evil wants Yota to stay back, then he slides in, only to slide right out! Yota runs out after Evil, but Evil kicks him! Evil RAMS Yota into the timekeeper! Abe-san and his table go flying! Evil gets the mic to tell Yota that this is what he gets! The fans boo but Evil tells them off, too! Evil stomps Yota then soaks up the heat.

Evil unties the blue buckle pad himself, then waits in the ring. The ref checks Yota and the fans rally up again. The Young Lions help Abe-san while Yota drags himself up. Yota slides in, the fans cheer, but Evil pulls on Yota’s hair! Evil wrenches the hair, then wrenches it again! And again! Evil CLUBS the hair! The ref reprimands but Evil just dusts off his hands. Evil covers, but the ref refuses to count! Evil is furious but he’s the one up to no good! The ref still says no, so Evil stands on Yota’s head. The fans rally up, Yota rises, and he grins as he winds up to ROCK Evil with a forearm! And ROCK him with another!

Yota ROCKS Evil again, but Evil whips him into the bare buckles! Yota falls and the ref reprimands about the missing buckle pad. Evil stomps Yota, covers, TWO! The fans cheer but Evil is annoyed. Evil scuffs Yota, taunts him, and drags him up. Evil CHOPS, Yota drops to his knees, but Evil stands him back up. Evil CHOPS again and Yota grits his teeth as he drops to his knees! Evil stands Yota up again, to fake the chop to CLAW the eyes! The ref reprimands, Evil lets off, and then Evil stands on Yota in a corner. The ref counts, Evil lets go of the ropes but that’s not the problem! Evil steps away, drags Yota up but claims he’s dead weight.

The ref checks, Evil stands Yota up and wrenches an arm. Evil whips Yota into a corner, runs in, but into a BOOT! Evil runs in again, blocks the boot, but Yota brings Evil in for the STOMP! The fans fire up while Yota rests on the mat. The fans rally up and Yota rises again. Evil’s in the corner, runs out, but into the BACKBREAKER! COMPLETE SHOT! STOMP! The fans fire up again as Yota stands back up. Yota runs, to CURB STOMP!! Yota roars and the fans fire up again! Evil flounders while Yota aims. Yota runs in, but the ref is used as a shield! Evil kicks Yota low, then uses the ref in MAGIC KILLER!

All three men are down while the fans rally up again. Evil stands, he brings Yota up, and the ref also rises. Evil whips Yota into the bare buckles, then clotheslines him in! Then FISHERMAN BUSTER! Cover, but Evil lets off?! Evil wants to torture Yota but it’s hard to say if Yota is still even in this. Yota opens his eyes, rises up, but Evil fireman’s carries! DARKNESS FALLS! Cover, TWO!! Yota survives, the fans fire up, but Evil is furious! Evil slashes his throat and vows to end this now! Evil drags Yota up, spins him around, but Yota fights the STO with elbows! Evil kicks low, whips again, but Yota stops from hitting buckles!

Evil runs in, Yota dodges and Evil hits the buckles! SUPERKICK!! Both men are down again and the fans fire back up! We’re only ten minutes into this new match but this is on top of the madness from earlier. Evil drags Yota up, but Yota ROCKS Evil! Evil fights Yota’s fireman’s carry and CLUBS him, but both men wobble. Evil LARIATS, but Yota stays up! The fans fire up but Evil swings to LARIAT again! Yota drops to a knee, but he grins through the pain! Evil says alright, and he throws off his elbow pad. Evil runs to LARIAT! Yota grits his teeth to stay up! V-TRIGGER! Yota brings Evil in, suplexes, ORANGE CRUSH! Cover, TWO!!

Evil is still in this but the fans rally behind Yota again. Yota rises, drags Evil up, and then goes to the corner. Yota goes up and up and Evil moves the ref into the way! The ref takes the FLYING CURB STOMP!!! And now the House returns! The fans boo as Kanemaru, Dick, Yujiro, Narita & Jack all stomp away on Yota again! The fans tell them to go home, again, but these guys don’t care! They just put one out on Yota. They whip Yota to a corner, then DIck runs in to ELBOW! Kanemaru ELBOWS! Yujiro BOOTS! Jack SPLASHES! Narita ELBOWS! Then they snapmare and set Yota up! Dick climbs for the DICK CHOP!!

The fans boo but the House applauds their own dirtiness. But here come Bushi & Hiromu again! But they just get mugged again! They set Hiromu up for the DICK CHOP, while Bushi gets a JACK CHOP! The House then slithers away before a replacement ref rushes out here. Evil drags Yota up, winds up and runs, to LARIAT!! Cover, TWO!!! Yota survives and the fans are thunderous! Evil is at a loss for words, but he slashes his throat! He vows to end it for real, and he reels Yota in. EVERYTHING IS- Yota flips through!? And HEADBUTTS!! The fans fire up as Yota reels Evil in for a fireman’s carry! 70 CROSS!! Cover, TWO!!

Evil survives the swinging spinebuster and the House cheers! Yota drags himself to a corner, drags himself up with the ropes, and roars as he takes aim! Evil rises, but Yujiro distracts! Dick runs in, but gets a V-TRIGGER! The ref sees Dick, but misses the LOW BLOW! Then Evil RAMS Yota into the ref! That’s the second ref this match! Narita gets his push-up bar! The others set Yota up, but here comes SHINGO TAKAGI! The Rampaging Dragon has seen enough, and he’s still pissed from yesterday as it is! He dodges Narita to PUMPING BOMBER! Kanemaru & Yujiro kick Takagi, double whip, but he DOUBLE PUMPING BOMBERS!!

Jack gets in, but he gets ELBOW, JAB and YUKON LARIAT! Evil runs up but Takagi SWATS Evil’s lariat to JAB! Then feed to Hiromu’s SUPERKICK! Hiromu & Takagi set Evil up for Bushi’s BLACK MIST!! Evil can’t see, the PUMPING BOMBER turns him inside-out!! The fans are thunderous as LIJ helps Yota up! Red Shoes hurries out here, and Yota aims at Evil! GENE BLASTER!!! Cover, Yota wins!!!

Winner: Yota Tsuji, by pinfall (advances to the finals)

The House of Torture ran out of tricks, and now there is light at the end of the tournament! Will Yota do LIJ proud and bring home the Cup?

 

2024 New Japan Cup Semifinals: SANADA VS Hirooki Goto!

One down, one to go. Yota Tsuji has made it through, now we see who joins him in the finals! Will the Cold Skull or Fierce Warrior be the one that steps closer to former glory?

The bell rings and the fans duel between “GO-TO-O!” and “SA-NA-DA!” Red Shoes measures the levels, and it seems to slightly favor Goto. Goto and Sanada circle, tie up, and are in a deadlock. Goto gets some leverage to put Sanada against ropes, but he lets off slowly. Goto pats Sanada on the shoulders and the fans cheer. The two reset, circle again, and tie up again. It’s another deadlock, but again Goto finds a way to put Sanada on ropes. Sanada turns things around, lets off slowly, and also pats Goto on the shoulders. The fans applaud and the two reset again. They feel things out, knuckle lock, then move to a clinch.

They fight for control, Sanada starts pushing Goto towards a corner but Goto slips away. They feel things out, knuckle lock again, then break. They tie up collar ‘n’ elbow, Goto waistlocks, but Sanada wrenches to wristlock. Goto rolls, wrenches, wristlocks, but Sanada spins, wrenches, only for Goto to roll! Goto gets a leg to trip Sanada up, and he has a toehold. Sanada fights back with a chinlock but Goto pulls on the leg. Sanada uses his free leg to hook Goto into an ARMBAR, but Goto clasps hands! Goto moves around, pops free, then headlocks. Sanada fights up, Goto grinds the headlock, but Sanada throws body shots.

Sanada powers up and out, but Goto runs him over! The fans rally as things speed up, and Goto counters hip toss with hip toss! Goto runs and he clotheslines Sanada up and out! The fans fire up and Goto slides out after Sanada. Goto stomps Sanada, drags him up, then CLUBS him on the neck! Sanada staggers, Goto CHOPS him, then kicks him, then CLUBS him! Goto whips but Sanada stops himself from hitting railing! Goto runs in but Sanada drop toeholds him into the railing! Goto goes down in a heap, but Sanada opens the gate. Sanada brings Goto through, then to the crowd! PILEDRIVER to the bare floor!

The fans are stunned but Red Shoes reprimands. Sanada leaves Goto behind and slides into the ring. The fans rally for Goto as the ring count begins. Goto crawls at 5 of 20, finds his way to ringside at 10, but still hobbles and crawls. He stands at 17 to slide in! The fans cheer, but Sanada stomps Goto. Sanada drags Goto up, CLUBS him on the neck, then brings him back up to CLUB him again. Goto CHOPS! And CHOPS! Sanada eggs Goto on so Goto CHOPS again! Goto whips, Sanada reverses to RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! Cover, TWO! Sanada keeps cool and sits Goto up into a chinlock. Goto endures and the fans rally again.

Goto kicks forward, reaches out, but Sanada cranks on the hold! Goto keeps fighting, and has the ROPEBREAK! Sanada lets go cleanly, but then he stomps Goto while he’s down. Sanada then stands Goto up to CLUB him on the neck. Goto CHOPS in return! And CHOPS, and CHOPS, and has Sanada in a corner! Goto CHOPS again, then whips corner to corner. Goto runs in, but Sanada BOOTS first! Sanada runs, Goto follows, and Goto LARIATS Sanada down! The fans fire up and Goto rises, clutching his neck. Goto stands Sanada up to fire off forearms, then he whips corner to corner. Goto runs in, MURAMASA!

Sanada wobbles, into the SAIDO! Cover, TWO! The fans fire up while Goto grits his teeth. Goto drags Sanada up, fireman’s carries, but Sanada fights free! Sanada waistlocks, Goto throws elbows, then runs. Sanada hurdles, hurdles, and DROPKICKS! Goto tumbles out of the ring, Sanada PLANCHAS him down! The fans fire up and Sanada encourages them to get louder. The fans get louder and Sanada appreciates it. Sanada then goes back for Goto, brings him up and puts him in the ring. Sanada fireman’s carries but Goto throws elbows! Sanada turns around into Goto’s fireman’s carry, but then slips out into the dragon sleeper!

But Goto arm-drags free! Sanada kicks low, runs, but Goto follows! Sanada dodges this time, runs again, but Goto still follows! Sanada sidesteps this time, but Goto holds ropes to avoid the hurdle! Goto runs in, but Sanada fireman’s carries! T K O! Cover, TWO! Goto is still in this and the fans rally up! Sanada goes up the corner, ROUNDING BODY- NO, Sanada has to land out as Goto moves! Sanada runs in, but into the fireman’s carry! USHIGOROSHI! Both men are down and the fans fire up again! They cheer on “GO-TO-O!” but the “SA-NA-DA!” chants are still there. Red Shoes checks them both, and both men slowly rise.

The two crawl towards each other, and Goto fires a forearm! Sanada shakes his head, eggs Goto on, so Goto throws another! Goto eggs Sanada on, so Sanada fires a forearm! Goto fires a forearm back, and the two stand. Sanada UPPERCUTS! Goto comes back to forearm! Sanada UPPERCUTS again, and Goto drops back to a knee! The fans rally, Goto stands again, and he forearms! UPPERCUT, forearm, repeat! Goto growls, fires a flurry of forearms, and he ROCKS Sanada! Sanada drops to his hand and knees but Goto powers up! Goto KICKS but Sanada blocks! Goto fires more forearms, then waistlocks, but Sandaa fights free!

Sanada runs, but Goto fireman’s carries! And he throws Sanada into the dragon sleeper! But Sanada turns around and suplexes, for MAGIC SCREW! Both men are down again and the fans fire back up! Sanada roars as he rises up, and he aims from a corner. Sanada wants Goto to get up, and Goto sits up, into the SHINING WIZARD! Sanada then dragon sleepers, for the SKULL END!! Goto endures, flails, reaches out, but he’s caught in the body scissors! Goto fights around but he’s fading! The fans rally, Goto’s hand drops! Sanada lets him go to then climb! ROUNDING BODY PRESS! Cover, TWO!!

The fans fire up as Goto survives but Sanada storms around. Sanada drags Goto up, reels him in and clinches, but Goto slips free to shove Sanada away! Sanada forearms, ROLLING- HEADBUTT from Goto! The fans fire up and duel, and Goto drags Sanada up. But Sanada breaks free! Goto HEADBUTTS again! Sanada falls back down and Goto steadies himself. Goto roars, the fans are with him, and Goto sits Sanada up. Goto runs to PENALTY KICK! Shoutout to Shibata and the fans fire up more! Sanada grits his teeth as he sits back up but Goto takes aim! BUZZSAW! And then he hauls Sanada up to dragon sleeper! G T- BACKSLIDE COUNTER! TWO!!!

Sanada and Goto hurry up, Sanada dodges to O’Conner BRIDGE!! TWO?!!? Goto escapes and shocks everyone! Sanada resets, runs in, SHINING WIZARD!! The fans are thunderous as Sanada roars and drags Goto back up! Clinch and DEAD- NO, Goto slips around to ripcord and fireman’s carry! G T W!! Cover, TWO?!?!? Sanada survives but Goto is all fired up! The fans are thunderous as Goto dragon sleepers for G T R!!! Cover, GOTO WINS!!!

Winner: Hirooki Goto, by pinfall (advances to the finals)

Don’t call it a comeback, Goto’s been here for years! Sanada’s hopes of being IWGP World Heavyweight Champion again have been delayed, how long must he wait for another chance?

As for Goto, he’s going back to the New Japan Cup Finals for the first time since 2016, and his seventh overall! But before he can get the mic to speak, Yota makes his way back out here. Yota steps into the ring and he gets the mic first. Yota tells Goto, “In order to open the door to a new era, we must do this.” The fans applaud that, and Yota continues by asking Goto, “Are you ready?!” Yota drops the mic at Goto’s feet, and Goto stands up to speak. “I also have something I want to show you. As a three-time New Japan Cup Champion, I will show you my strength.” The fans like the sound of that!

The Fierce Warrior stares down with Gene Blast, a true generational showdown on the horizon! Will Goto return not juts to former glory, but finally ascend to top of NJPW? Or will Yota make it LIJ VS LIJ for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship?


My Thoughts:

A great semifinal round for this tournament, with quite a surprising main event. Sanada VS Goto was great stuff, and while I felt Sanada wasn’t winning the Cup, I didn’t think he’d be out this round. Yota VS Evil was rather creatively put together, too. I did not think the House would get so involved that at first it was a No Contest but then they restart under a ringside ban. Takagi making sure Yota won was good stuff, too, maybe we can get Takagi VS Evil for the NEVER Openweight Championship if they’re not gonna circle back to more Shota Umino VS House of Torture stuff.

Goto VS Yota is going to be great stuff, and Goto is clearly a top utility guy. He’s had so many New Japan Cup finals appearances, certainly among the most ever, but I don’t think he gets a fourth Cup win against Yota, one of the “new era Musketeers” that NJPW clearly loves. Yota VS Naito is definitely the title match for Sakura Genesis.

My Score: 8.9/10


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