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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Results & Report! (3/11/19)

Will The Game and The Animal come face-to-face tonight?

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Raw heats up in the homestretch! Will Finn Balor retain the Intercontinental Championship against Bobby Lashley? Will Batista confront Triple H in person?

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Shelton Benjamin VS Seth Rollins; Rollins wins.
  • WWE Intercontinental Championship: Finn Balor VS Bobby Lashley; Lashley wins and becomes the new WWE Intercontinental Champion.
  • Aleister Black & Ricochet VS Bobby Roode & Chad Gable; Black & Ricochet win.
  • Nia Jax w/ Tamina VS Natalya; Nia wins, by disqualification.
  • Kurt Angle VS Apollo Crews; Angle wins.
  • Roman Reigns VS Baron Corbin; No Contest.
  • Falls Count Anywhere: Dean Ambrose VS Drew McIntyre; McIntyre wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

The SHIELD is here!

And they start off Raw by walking down the stairs in Pittsburgh! Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose were victorious in their #OneLastTime match with Baron Corbin, Drew McIntyre and Bobby Lashley at Fastlane. The Shield goes to the ring as fans give them a huge ovation. Roman picks up a mic and says, “Over the past few months, I’ve come to realize that life is short and tomorrow is not guaranteed”. If last night was truly the last time together, he has no regrets. Roman was in the ring doing what he loves with people he loves. Roman asked them for a favor and his brothers didn’t let him down, and he is forever grateful.

But as we all know, we’re on the Road to Wrestlemania. There are three men who need to handle their business. Roman hasn’t had a singles match in over five months, so let’s correct that tonight! Ambrose is fired up because has business to handle, too. Not even Ambrose knows what it is, but good luck with it. And the real business is Rollins’. How many years has he chased the dream? Fans chant “Slay the Beast!” Roman doesn’t want to speak for Rollins but that’s exactly what he’ll do! Rollins is in the main event, he is going to beat Brock Lesnar, and he’s going to take that WWE Universal Championship. And he’ll do it while everyone chants, “Burn It Down!” Roman and Ambrose hug Rollins and hand over the mic. And just like at Fastlane, we get one last Shield fist bump.

Rollins stays in the ring while Roman and Ambrose leave together. He gazes up at the Wrestlemania sign while fans continue to chant. “Last night at Fastlane, The Shield burned it down!” But ladies and gentlemen, it’s Paul Heyman. The Advocate to the reigning, defending, undisputed Universal Heavyweight Champion “and Mr. Rollins’ conqueror in the main event of Wrestlemania,” BROCK LESNAR, is here. Rollins likes that, and also shouts, “BROCK! LESNAR!” The man who dominates his opponents. The man who dominated the Big Show, ran through Samoa Joe, took Braun Strowman to Suplex City, annihilated Goldberg. Well Heyman appreciates Rollins is doing his shtick for him. But yes, that’s Brock Lesnar.

Rollins marvels at THE BROCK LESNAR that had a real tough time getting by Daniel Bryan, and got pushed to his limits by AJ Styles. THE Brock Lesnar who came so close to being beat by Finn Balor. That Brock Lesnar? Heyman says, “Touche.” Seems to Rollins that Lesnar has a problem with guys who are Rollins’ size, stature, speed and style. And with all due respect to Finn, Styles and Bryan, but there is only one uniquely suited to defeating Lesnar: “Seth Freakin’ Rollins!” Rollins tells Heyman they have just over three weeks. Run your mouth all you want, because Rollins is going to Mania, taking the title off The Beast and bringing it home to Raw every single week!

Heyman is actually at a loss for words. But he says there will be NO slaying the Beast! Rollins runs down names, but he’s not telling the whole story! Lesnar had no time to prepare for those men. Shrug shoulders all you want but there’s no booing when Heyman’s talking! Lesnar VS Mahal became Lesnar VS Styles. Lesnar VS Styles became Lesnar VS Bryan. And Lesnar VS Strowman became Lesnar VS Finn! Each time, Lesnar had less than two weeks to prepare! So “with all due respect”, Rollins runs his mouth like he knows Lesnar rather than knowing all the F5’s he took! If Rollins wants to meet Lesnar, then Heyman gives BROCK LESNAR another video package. It’s a lot of F5’s and German Suplexes.

“Ever since you won the Royal Rumble,” Brock Lesnar has had his “sadistic fantasies” about what he’ll do to Rollins. Lesnar is prepared for Rollins in the main event of Wrestlemania. Does Rollins really think he knows Lesnar? He doesn’t know Lesnar. Because behind Rollins is Shelton Benjamin!? Benjamin suplexes Rollins around a lot like Lesnar would! The Gold Standard leaves Rollins down, is he going to soften the Architect up for the Beast?

 

Shelton Benjamin VS Seth Rollins!

Raw returns and this match begins! Rollins goes right at Benjamin but Benjamin throws him down. Rollins gets back up but Benjamin turns it around to a scoop slam. Benjamin grins and Heyman on commentary claims this is not a conspiracy. Rollins waistlocks and headlocks but Benjamin wrenches out to a keylock. Benjamin gets a headlock and takeover, then grinds his forearms into Rollins’ face. Heyman says Lesnar isn’t here because he’s busy training for Wrestlemania, as he is an athlete. Rollins fights his way up but Benjamin keeps the headlock. Fans rally and Rollins powers out. Benjamin runs Rollins over but things speed up. Rollins runs Benjamin over with an elbow!

Rollins CHOPS Benjamin then whips to ropes. He dropkicks Benjamin down and out of the ring! Rollins pursues and throws haymakers and chops! He bumps Benjamin off barriers and puts him back in the ring. Rollins throws haymakers and has Benjamin in the corner. Rollins CHOPS Benjamin more, then whips corner to corner. Benjamin reverses but runs into a boot. Rollins hops up, blockbuster! Fans fire up as Rollins stomps “Burn It Down!” Rollins aims at Benjamin, runs in, but Benjamin dodges. Benjamin suplexes but Rollins lands on his feet. Rollins dumps Benjamin out to then build speed, into a kick! Benjamin covers, TWO! The Architect is in trouble while we go to break.

Raw returns as Rollins endures a chinlock. Fans rally and he fights his way up. Rollins fights back with body shots but Benjamin knees low. Benjamin dumps Rollins out then throws him into barriers! Benjamin throws Rollins into apron then back into barriers then runs him over with a clothesline! Heyman takes a phone call, and we can only assume it’s Lesnar. Benjamin puts Rollins in the ring and shakes his head. Benjamin doesn’t seem impressed with the #1 contender. He drags Rollins up for a powerbomb but Rollins resists. Rollins overhead bridges, TWO! Benjamin powerbomb lifts but Rollins huricanranas Benjamin into buckles! Heyman confirms, Lesnar called and is upset by what commentary is saying about Heyman. Heyman also confirms that Lesnar will be here next week on Raw!

Fans fire up for Rollins as he CHOPS Benjamin. Rollins climbs up but leaps over Benjamin. He keeps moving, slingblade! Benjamin gets to a corner and Rollins runs in. Benjamin puts him on the apron but Rollins kicks back. Rollins springboards for a flying clothesline! Cover, TWO! Rollins keeps his cool and takes aim at Benjamin. Benjamin dodges the kick and German suplexes Rollins! Benjamin drags Rollins up for another German! Fans rally but Benjamin taunts Rollins. Benjamin fireman’s carry, but Rollins slips out to SUPERKICK! And mule kick, to Curb Stomp! Cover, Rollins wins!

Winner: Seth Rollins, by pinfall

The Architect overcomes Heyman’s little ploy and picks up momentum for Wrestlemania! If Heyman is right and Lesnar is appearing next week, will Rollins have some “questions” for him?

But wait, here comes Finn Balor! Pittsburgh welcomes Balor Club, and his Intercontinental Championship! The Extraordinary Man shakes hands with The Architect, and heads to the ring. But Bobby Lashley glares via the titantron. Finn defends that very belt, up next!

 

WWE Intercontinental Championship: Finn Balor VS Bobby Lashley!

The Rocky Mountain Machine claims Finn is simply “borrowing” the title, given Finn pinned Lio Rush and not Lashley in their odd 2v1 championship match. Lashley takes his shot to take the belt back, will he hit his mark? Or will the Road to Wrestlemania stay Too Sweet?

Raw returns as Lashley makes his entrance, and it really is without Lio Rush. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we begin! Finn and Lashley circle and tie up. Lashley waistlocks and slams Finn right down. He drags Finn up to bump him off buckles then stomp a mudhole into him. Lashley backs off at 4 but comes back to choke Finn on the ropes. He lets up at 4 again, and Finn staggers away. Lashley clubs Finn in the corner then stalks him. He puts on a neck wrench but Finn endures. Fans rally for Finn but Lashley shifts to the other direction. Lashley puts Finn on ropes to club and choke him. Lashley lets up to run but into a dropkick! Finn keeps on Lashley but Lashley powers him to a corner!

Lashley rams his shoulder in then runs corner to corner. Finn evades but his kick is blocked for an elbow! Lashley joins Finn on the apron, hauls him up, but Finn resists the suplex. Finn sends Lashley down with a dropkick, then Penalty Kicks! The Extraordinary Champion has control while we go to break.

Raw returns as Lashley grinds Finn down in a chinlock. Finn fights his way up as fans rally behind him. Finn pries the hold loose and fights back with fury! He runs but into a complete shot! Cover, TWO! Finn lives but sputters for air. Lashley stomps Finn down then circles him like a shark. Lashley drags Finn up for a powerbomb, but Finn fights free again. Finn sends Lahsley out but Lashley drags him out! Apron back suplex! Lashely covers, TWO! Lashley grows frustrated but looms over Finn. He toys with Finn then brings him up. Lashley throws a haymaker then wraps on the chinlock. Lashley shifts to an armlock and grinds his forearm on Finn’s face. Finn endures and works against this hold. But Lashley knees low and prepares the bomb. But Finn back drops! Lashley sunset flips but Finn rolls through, dropkick!

Finn boots Lashley from a corner. Finn throws forearms on the run, and knocks Lashley over! Lashley gets to a corner but Finn CHOPS! Finn whips corner to corner but Lashley reverses. Finn goes up but gets caught! He slips out and trips Lashley for double stomps! Fans fire up while Lashley sputters. Finn aims but runs into Lashley’s arms! Lashley rams him into one corner then to the opposite! Lashley gut wrenches to the Canadian rack, but Finn slips out and rolls up! TWO, but Finn keeps moving, tilt-o-whirl long dart! Lashley runs corner to corner, but into a slingblade! Lashley gets up fast but staggers to a corner. Finn runs in to shotgun dropkick! Lashley’s down in the drop zone, Finn climbs up! But who is ringing the bell? Lio Rush!! Lio snatches the belt and shouts that it doesn’t belong to Finn!

Finn gives chase, but sees Lashley coming. Finn kicks Lio down, then slingshots, into a SPEAR!! Cover, Lashley wins!!

Winner: Bobby Lashley, by pinfall; NEW WWE Intercontinental Champion

The Man of the Hour redeems himself as he helps Lashley take the belt back! The Rocky Mountain Machine is again champion, but will Finn find a way back to Wrestlemania?

 

Backstage interview with Baron Corbin.

He takes on Roman Reigns later tonight, but people still bring up Corbin’s “out of line” comments. What did he even say? Footage replays from October as Corbin belittled Roman’s leukemia, and acted like Roman shouldn’t come back. Yes, Corbin said that. But he’s not worried about other people’s feelings. Corbin just wanted Roman gone from the ring. But now he’s back. Overcoming that disease surely took it’s toll, and after Fastlane, no one is 100%. Corbin’s been the one carrying Raw on his back while Roman was away. He promises to house train the Big Dog, but will he get bit?

 

Ronda Rousey is here!

The Baddest Woman on the Planet and Raw Women’s Champion heads right to the ring and picks up a mic. At Fastlane, she interfered directly in the match between Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch, practically handing Becky a spot in the title match at Wrestlemania. But she doesn’t give a damn what “bandwagon b*tches” think when they all cheered when Becky beat her with a crutch. Becky’s their hero because they’re all cowards. But Becky and Charlotte will have nowhere to hide. There is no sanctuary, Ronda is going to desecrate their place of worship on the Grandest Stage of Them All. It’s why Ronda wanted them both in one match, so she can expose WWE as the carny con-artists they are. And no one can stop her!

In fact, the WWE could even make this a Handicap Match and Ronda wouldn’t break a sweat. Anyone who believes in Becky, Charlotte or this charade is a joke! But just as Ronda’s about to leave, Dana Brooke appears to respond. Dana tells Ronda this is enough. Enough of Ronda’s venom. Dana is the woman with nothing left to lose in the WWE! She won’t let Ronda disrespect hits company or its fans! Dana may not be the big time fighter, but she loves this company and this business! She’s worked so hard just to be here, just to have some respect, and to prove that she belongs! Each week, Dana fights for her chance, but barely even gets the time of day! So Dana may not be a household name, but all she wants is just one chance.

Dana brings up that Ronda has made a habit of defending after a PPV, so Dana wants to accept that challenge. Ronda kicks Dana down! And then grounds ‘n’ pounds! Dana bails out but Ronda pursues to throw her around! Ronda puts Dana back in the ring and rolls her into the Piper’s Pit! Referees rush the ring and Ronda spares Dana. To SLAP a ref! Ronda picks up her jacket and her belt and takes her leave. Will Ronda simply toy with The Queen and The Man at Wrestlemania?

 

Aleister Black & Ricochet VS Bobby Roode & Chad Gable!

The Unexpected Duo of Dutch Destroyer and King of Flight were robbed of a proper Raw Tag Team Championship match by the GLORIOUS Duo once, and then they were in the way in the Triple Threat at Fastlane. But now they look to settle things directly! Will Aleister & Ricochet make Roode & Gable #FadetoBlack?

Raw returns as Roode & Gable finish their entrance. The teams sort out and Gable starts with Aleister. Gable throws forearms but Aleister fires them back! Gable tackles Aleister to the corner and tags in Roode. They double whip but Aleister rolls off their backs. Aleister dumps Gable out and fires off on Roode. He sweeps the leg but Roode dodges the knee to SPINEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Roode keeps on Aleister with kicks and body shots. Roode puts Aleister in the corner and CHOPS! Tag to Gable and Roode suplexes Aleister. Roode then back suplexes Gable for the splash. Cover, TWO! Gable keeps on Aleister with a figure four knot to chinlock. Aleister endures as Gable digs an elbow in. Fans rally up but Gable tags in Roode. The GLORIOUS Duo stomp a mudhole into Aleister.

Roode drags Aleister up for a backbreaker. Cover, TWO! Roode wraps on a rear bearhug and squeezes tight. Aleister fights and fans rally. Aleister fights out but Roode shoves for another spinebuster, but Aleister sunset flips. TWO, and Roode knees low. Roode whips Aleister to an open corner but misses! Tag to Ricochet! Ricochet rallies on Roode and Gable gets a neckbreaker! Ricochet dodges Roode to huricanrana him to a corner! He rams his shoulder in then springboards, btu Roode dodges. Tag to Gable and Ricochet fights off Roode. Gable catches him in a waistlock. Blockbuster Chaos Theory! Bridging cover, TWO! Ricochet lives but Gable tags Roode back in. They coordinate but Ricochet disrupts the combo. Gable lands on his feet but so does Ricochet. Ricochet spins Gable to lariat!

Ricochet rolls Roode out of the DDT, TWO! Roode has Ricochet, TWO! Tag to Aleister! Roode has Ricochet but gets a roundhouse! To a spinning knee! Ricochet dropkicks Gable, Roode takes BLACK MASS! Cover, Aleister & Ricochet win!

Winners: Aleister Black & Ricochet, Black pinning

The air strike strikes and wins again! Will the NXT all-stairs still find a way to take over the main roster?

But The Revival attacks from behind! The #TopGuys ruin the celebration, but they back off when Roode & Gable walk up. Who will make their way to Wrestlemania to challenge Dash & Dawson for those titles?

 

It’s time for A Moment of Bliss!

The Goddess walks on set and takes her seat. This is a very special episode, because the 1 BILLION social media followers have been buzzing. Not just about The Shield’s farewell address of the Intercontinental Championship change, but about Alexa’s scoop. She knows who the Wrestlemania host will be this year. Think about who they’ve had. Kim Khardashian is not as big as this person. The Rock is not as electrifying as this person. And The New Day aren’t near as positive as this person. This year’s host is none other than… Alexa Bliss! Yes, it’s The Goddess herself! She gets to host Wrestlemania!

It’s such a shock, she had nothing prepared, but well, the only thing she can say is… “It is such an honor for the WWE Universe, you’re welcome.” Fans know “You Deserve It!” and so does she. Finally, the brightest star will be on the grandest stage. This has been your Moment of Bliss.

 

Backstage interview with Braun Strowman.

Does The Monster Among Men regret assaulting Colin Jost? He and Michael Che will be the guest correspondents at Wrestlemania. Well Jost better stay away from Strowman. Because Strowman liked jacking Jost up. An attendant says Strowman’s car is here. What car? The Monster has a mystery on his hands while we go to break.

Raw returns, and there’s a car with a card. The attendant reads it: “Dear Mr. Strowman, we both said and did things we regret.” On behalf of the Saturday Night Live cast, Jost got him this car. Don’t destroy it like you did Vince’s limo because there are no more title matches to screw him out of. “LOL”, your friend, Colin Jost. See you at Mania. Well it does look nice. But Strowman rips the car apart! It’s too small for Strowman, anyway. What’s under the hood? Strowman rips it and the front bumper off! Strowman tells the attendant to send this piece of the car to Jost and let him know the next time they meet, it’ll be live from New York. Is SNL gonna #GetTheseHands?!

 

Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.

The Drifter returns to his hometown and they’re glad to see him! Strowman did not appreciate that gift, but Elias is sure Pittsburgh will appreciate his. Elias promised himself not to return home until he was a hero everyone could believe in. Well, here he is. Elias begins to play, and fans cheer. He’s got just one question for everyone: “Who Wants to Walk With Elias?!” Steel City sure does. Statistically speaking, it is a miracle Elias is such a success. Because there is overwhelming evidence that being born in Pitt means you’ll be an enormous waste of life. Elias returns home and is quickly reminded of just how miserable everyone is here. And those miserable people hold the great ones back.

That is what Elias told Antonio Brown. “Tony, you’ve already got their money, now do whatever you can to force a trade.” And now he looks great in silver and black. But here comes No Way Jose and his conga line! Jose even has a new look! But Elias wrecks him with a dropkick! And throws him into barriers! Elias runs through the conga line and rains down rights on Jose. Elias scares off the rest of the party people before giving Jose Drift Away on the ramp! The frustration has finally boiled over and the fiesta’s done. Will Elias ever truly have his moment?

 

WWE proudly announces that Harlem Heat is headed to the Hall of Fame!

Booker T and Stevie Ray ruled over tag team wrestling in WCW as 10-time world tag team champions! Such an accomplishment still stands tall today, “now can you dig that, SUCKAAA~!?”

 

Lacey Evans walks out!

The Sassy Southern Belle struts to commentary, but her strut to the back is interrupted by Nia Jax & Tamina. Nia and Tamina just shrug her off and head to the ring. The Irresistible Force takes on the Queen of Harts for what happened at Fastlane!

 

Nia Jax w/ Tamina VS Natalya!

Once again, the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship match did not go the way the Samoan Dynasty wanted, and they took it out on The Boss & Hug Connection after the match, and even Beth Phoenix who was on commentary! The Queen of Harts rushed to rescue her good friend but got beat down, too. Can Natty get revenge on the Irresistible Force on the Glamazon’s behalf?

Raw returns as Natty makes her entrance, and she has a mic. Natty tells Nia and Tamina that after what they did, it got Natty thinking about who has her back. She used to think it was Ronda, but seems she didn’t know her that well. Natty doesn’t trust Nia and Tamina, but she does trust this woman: The Glamazon, Beth Phoenix! Beth returns to Raw to be Natty’s back up! The Queen of Harts hits the ring and we begin!

Natty goes right at Nia with fast hands, but Nia runs her over! Nia drags Natty up and tosses her to a corner. Nia runs into boots but Tamina grabs a foot! Beth protests while Nia squashes Natty in the corner. So Beth goes after Nia herself!

Winner: Nia Jax, by disqualification

But The Glamazon keeps fighting, sending Nia out of the ring! Tamina runs in but Beth takes care of her, too! Some of the most physically powerful women in the WWE are ready to fight, but when and where will the Samoan Dynasty have to answer to the Divas of Doom?

But wait, the Boss & Hug Connection come for revenge in gorilla position! Security and officials do their best to stop this scrap, but this is far from over! Will Sasha Banks & Bayley get their own revenge on Nia & Tamina?

 

Cars pulls into the arena parking lot.

And who emerges? Dave Batista! The Animal, with quite a bit of security, heads inside!

 

Triple H is here!

The Game saw The Animal arrive, so he’s going to wait for him in the ring. HHH dares Batista to show up and fans even chant for him. The music hits, and Batista walks out on stage! But so does his personal security. The bodyguards walk ahead of Batista on the ramp and fans boo. Batista picks up a mic but takes a moment as fans chant and jeer. HHH speaks first. “You just gonna stand there looking like a nose-ring model or are you gonna come to the ring like I asked you to and face me like a man?” Nice guards, by the way. Probably for HHH’s protection, right? Batista speaks. The security is because Batista’s not stupid. He learned, he paid attention to the two dirtiest players in the game: HHH, and Ric Flair. Batista admits the guards are here for his protection. Where’s the sledge hammer?

But HHH’s biggest mistake was underestimating him. Batista says they’re doing this by his terms. Give Batista what he wants. That’s all he needs. HHH isn’t giving “Dave” a damn thing. Why should he? How many times has Batista quit the WWE? And HHH is supposed to hand Batista stuff? Because he’s a Hollywood star now? HHH isn’t giving Batista anything, which leads us to the next option: since Batista won’t go to HHH, HHH will go to him. HHH will walk up the ramp, tear his way through the Guardians of the Indies, and beat Batista’s ass on stage! Batista says that’s not happening. HHH can try, but Batista will be long gone.

Batista admits he quit, but because he wanted to get away from HHH holding him down and looking down on him. It’s all HHH has ever done. Batista has wanted one thing for years, and he’ll get it or he’ll hurt those HHH loves! HHH is NOT giving Batista anything but the beating he deserves! So be a man, get in the ring, and take it. But Batista knows HHH wants it, too. He sees that it’s tearing HHH inside. HHH won’t give Batista what he wants because he wants to be in control. But Batista wants it, and HHH won’t give it to him. HHH vows it’s the beating and nothing more. No, Batista wants HHH at Mania! Is that what this is about?! Beating up a 70-year-old man and hiding behind bodyguards because of a match!? If that’s what Batista wants, “YOU’RE ON!!”

Batista thanks HHH. One last match for Batista to end his career on his terms. Because he’ll use it to end HHH’s career on his terms. See you at Mania. Batista turns to leave, but HHH says Batista’s right. But dig down deep, Mr. Hollywood. Find whatever scrap is left of the REAL Animal, because the match is on HHH’s terms. “Bring everything you have, because there will be no rules, no restrictions,” NO HOLDS BARRED!! The Game has laid down the law, but will it be #GameOver at Wrestlemania?

 

Kurt Angle is here!

Pittsburgh’s own Olympic Gold Medalist returns home to the loving ovation of “You Suck!” Angle goes to the ring and he even looks dressed to compete. “23 years ago, I left Pittsburgh to compete in the Olympic Games.” And yes, he won a gold medal with a “broken freakin’ neck.” Then Angle traveled with the WWE and pro-wrestling for the next 20 years. He has competed against any number of legends and icons, but Pittsburgh has always been his home. That’s why he wanted to say this here. At Wrestlemania, Angle competes in his farewell match. Angle thanks the WWE, every superstar he ever shared a locker room with, and all of the fans along the way. He literally had the time of his life. The fans chant “Thank You, Kurt!” but he thanks them. Angle feels it’s only right for one last match in Pittsburgh, too!

Kurt Angle VS Apollo Crews!

One of Angle’s biggest fans gets to compete against him for the first time, and the last time. Will Angle kick off his farewell tour with success or failure?

Raw returns and the bell rings. Angle and Apollo tie up and Apollo gets the headlock. Angle powers out but Apollo runs him over. Things speed up and Angle hip tosses Apollo then arm-drags him. Angle gets the armlock and Pittsburgh cheers. Apollo gets up and powers Angle to a corner. Apollo throws body shots then whips corner to corner. Angle counters but runs into a boot. But Apollo runs into Angle’s belly2belly! Angle runs in but misses and Apollo drops him with a dropkick! Cover, TWO! Apollo keeps on Angle with a suplex then covers, ONE! Apollo stays on Angle with a chinlock. Fans rally for Angle and Angle fights his way up. Angle fights out and throws hands but Apollo throws some back. They go back and forth but Angle gets a German Suplex! Angle holds on for another! And the hat trick! Cover, TWO!

Angle stalks Apollo as the younger star stands up. Angle Slam escaped with an arm-drag! Enziguri! Standing moonsault! Cover, TWO! Angle survives but Apollo doesn’t let up. Apollo heads up top, and leaps! Frog Splash FLOPS! Angle Slam! Cover, Angle wins!

Winner: Kurt Angle, by pinfall

Pittsburgh celebrates with their hero! Angle shows Apollo respect with a handshake, Apollo returns it with a hug. The farewell tour begins with a victory, but will it end with one at Wrestlemania?

 

Roman Reigns VS Baron Corbin!

The Big Dog has his first singles match in five months, and it’s to silence the sarcastic and obnoxious Lone Wolf. Will this still be Roman’s Yard? Or will Corbin take advantage of Roman’s time away?

But Drew McIntyre attacks first! The Scottish Terminator rains down rights on Roman, but he isn’t done there. He throws Roman right into a post! The referee checks on Roman while McIntyre glares from above. McIntyre goes out and drags Roman up, but Roman fights back! Roman uppercuts but McIntyre Claymores! McIntyre looks down upon a rocked Roman, then dares him to get up and fight. Roman crawls while McIntyre takes aim again. McIntyre Claymores Roman into a post! “I promise you, Roman!” McIntyre says. “This is just the beginning!” Referees and medics come to Roman’s aide and keep McIntyre back. Roman does his best to clear his head, but insists he’s fine.

Seth Rollins appears to check on Roman, but Roman tells him he’s okay, too. Rollins walks with Roman to the ramp, all the while assuring him it’ll be fine. Roman walks on his own at the stage, but he’s definitely still dizzy. Will Roman be alright to eventually make his singles return?

 

The Shield walks with Roman backstage.

Ambrose is furious but Rollins assures them Roman will get checked out and it’ll be fine. Roman accepts and goes into the trainer’s room, but Ambrose huffs and puffs up to HHH. “I want to fight Drew McIntyre, tonight.” And in Falls Count Anywhere. HHH gives Ambrose the match. Will the Lunatic reek revenge on the Scottish Terminator?

 

Falls Count Anywhere: Dean Ambrose VS Drew McIntyre!

But as McIntyre makes his way back out, he tells Dean, “I just want to know one thing. Are you gonna take this beating like a man? Or are you gonna squeal like your pathetic brother, Roman?!” Ambrose rushes McIntyre on the ramp! The bell rings and the fight is on! McIntyre suplexes but Ambrose counters to his own! McIntyre gets off stage but Ambrose leaps onto him! Ambrose throws McIntyre into barriers and they break through to the crowd! McIntyre hits back but Ambrose bumps him off barriers .And again! Ambrose chases McIntyre up the stairs and throws headlock punches. McIntyre rakes Ambrose’s eyes then chops him back. They go up the stairs and throw more CHOPS! Ambrose chases McIntyre again as they head further up.

McIntyre hits back and drags Ambrose the rest of the way up. McIntyre bounces Ambrose off the hand rail then brings him to the top. He scoops and throws Ambrose into the wall! Fans chant for Ambrose but McIntyre drags him up to bring him to the edge! Ambrose holds on for dear life and bites McIntyre’s fingers! Ambrose jumps with ax handles! And he smashes McIntyre with a garbage can! This fight will continue all over the arena while we go to one last break.

Raw returns once again, and Ambrose kicks over the ref to get at McIntyre. They go back down the stairs as Ambrose throws forearms. McIntyre gets away from Ambrose but Ambrose pursues. McIntyre rocks Ambrose and covers, TWO! He stands Ambrose up and they start chopping! They go back to barriers and Ambrose dumps McIntyre over. Ambrose climbs the barrier and leaps, into McIntyre’s overhead suplex! McIntyre pulls the steel steps apart, and aims at Ambrose. He rams the steel into Ambrose’s head! Cover, TWO! McIntyre brings the steps up again and holds them high up. He runs and rams Ambrose again! Cover, TWO! McIntyre grows frustrated with Ambrose but he deadlift suplexes him down! Cover, TWO!

Fans rally for Ambrose while McIntyre drags him back into the crowd. McIntyre throws forearms. “I’m going to take out The Shield one by one.” Ambrose low blows McIntyre to shut him up! And he fires off furious fists from all sides! Ambrose paces about but McIntyre jabs him with a chair, and SMACKS him on the back! McIntyre brings Ambrose around and snake eyes on barriers! McIntyre stalks Ambrose with the chair, but Ambrose kicks back. Ambrose bumps McIntyre off production trunks. He puts McIntyre on it, and takes him for a ride! Ambrose rams McIntyre into another trunk! Then drops an elbow! Cover, TWO! McIntyre drags himself up but Ambrose bounces his head off the trunks. McIntyre and Ambrose end up near commentary and then on stage.

Ambrose pursues McIntyre, cradle on the stage! TWO, and McIntyre rains down rights on Ambrose again. McIntyre drags Ambrose up and to the announce desk! He clears it off but Ambrose back suplexes him on it! Ambrose leaps on and rains down rights of his own. Ambrose fires up but McIntyre low blows back! McIntyre jams a pencil in Ambrose’s eye?! And then scoops Ambrose to long dart him into the LED boards! He does it again! Cover, TWO! Ambrose still lives, but he can barely stand. McIntyre mocks Ambrose but Ambrose SLAPS him! McIntyre slaps back, then slaps Ambrose around. He drags Ambrose through railing and hammers away. Ambrose is stuck, CLAYMORE!! The railing breaks off! Cover, McIntyre wins!

Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall

The Scottish Terminator wrecks Roman and brutalizes Ambrose! Will he finish his mission of shattering The Shield for good on the Road to Wrestlemania?

But somehow, Ambrose rises?! How is Ambrose still moving!? CLAYMORE again! We go off the air as McIntyre storms off. When and where will he look to do the same to The Architect?

 


 

My Thoughts:

Well this certainly wasn’t a bad Raw. The Shield’s farewell speech was mostly by Roman but it was well done, and it segued into Rollins’ segment with Heyman and Benjamin smoothly. Rollins’ and Heyman’s debate over Lesnar was pretty good, and both had valid points. Naturally Rollins wins against Benjamin to keep him strong, though I wouldn’t expect Lesnar’s appearance next week to turn into him giving Rollins another beating. Lesnar will likely leave laughing to keep with his usual pattern. The rest of The Shield had quite the night, too, with Corbin setting Roman up for a trap like that. McIntyre is still on his own mission to end The Shield, and wrecking Roman gets him heat and Roman some sympathy.

WWE still needs to be careful not to overdo Sympathetic Roman, but for this, it’ll be fine. Ambrose VS McIntyre was really fun, and that ending was incredible. I’m hoping for Roman & Ambrose VS McIntyre & Corbin at Mania. It won’t violate the One Last Time as it won’t be the full Shield. Rollins has Lesnar to take care of, so Roman and Ambrose can be victorious on their own to shut up Corbin and McIntyre. This allows Ambrose to ride off into the sunset should he really be leaving, and leaving indefinitely. Angle also has his own farewell coming, and probably a more real one than the rest. Apollo was a good choice to start this farewell tour, as both fan and truly athletic competitor. Angle can take on any number of superstars for his final match, but both putting them over or Angle leaving on top would be great.

I was really surprised to see Finn lose the Intercontinental Championship, but it worked for it to be because Lio Rush interfered. Finn will surely want payback on both of them, but whatever match we get, I would hope Finn wins it by beating Lashley directly. Elimination Chamber was about Finn getting the title at all, so Wrestlemania should be about him overcoming a beefy opponent. Ronda’s explanation wasn’t quite what I expected, but it does up her Heel persona. As does denying poor Dana a title match. Ironically, WWE wants Ronda to be a Heel but this way of acting is what’s getting fans to like her again. I’d hope for more from Becky and Charlotte on SmackDown tomorrow. As for Dana, maybe she should go to SmackDown, they’ve got more room there.

The “face-to-face” of HHH and Batista was interesting. The dialogue was good but the fact no action happened was a bit of a let down. But now that it’s No Holds Barred, the match is going to be even more fun. Alexa Bliss announcing herself as the Wrestlemania host was clever, but it sounds like Alexa still isn’t quite ready for an in-ring return. A shame, because I think she and Lacey Evans would’ve had a good program. All Lacey’s done since is strut about. Maybe something happens at Wrestlemania that at least causes a confrontation between them. And it definitely sounds like there’s going to be a confrontation between Strowman and Jost. That poor car… Elias was great on the mic as always, and he wrecks No Way Jose. Maybe Double J shows up next week and we get back to that.

Aleister & Ricochet VS Roode & Gable was really good, but I’m hoping they get to shine on the main roster in singles matches more. Granted, there is the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic that Aleister & Ricochet are in, but after that and once their main roster call-ups are permanent, both of them could try for the Intercontinental or United States Championships with great results. Of course, with The Revival attacking them, things might not be down as far as the Raw Tag Team Championships. Given the complications on NXT with Tommaso Ciampa’s neck surgery, I wonder if Aleister & Ricochet end up competing on both TakeOver and Mania… The Women’s Tag situation is going how I expected, Divas of Doom are looking as the likely legends team. SmackDown will need to have their own response for these titles to be cross-branded, though.

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!

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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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