Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (1/24/20)
The last SmackDown before the Royal Rumble!
Time to strap in and take off!
Before blasting off in Houston, SmackDown lays down the law in Dallas! Daniel Bryan and Bray Wyatt make their Strap Match official!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Six Man Tag: Roman Reigns & The Usos VS Baron Corbin, Dolph Ziggler & Robert Roode; Reigns & The Usos win.
- Bliss-Cross VS Fire & Desire; No Contest.
- Elias & Braun Strowman VS Shinsuke Nakamura & Cesaro w/ Sami Zayn; Elias & Strowman win.
- Kofi Kingston w/ Big E VS John Morrison w/ The Miz; Morrison wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Six Man Tag: Roman Reigns & The Usos VS Baron Corbin, Dolph Ziggler & Robert Roode!
SmackDown just went from zero to 60 in six seconds! That’s because six men with a lot of history and animosity are starting us off with a main event level match! Will the Samoan Bloodline overthrow the tyrannical Wolf King? Or will they be forced to bow down before the Royal Rumble?
Tensions run high but the trios sort out. Fans boo Corbin as he holds up his scepter but Roman glares at him the entire time. We start with Jey and Ziggler, and they tie up. Ziggler puts Jey in a corner but lets up at the ref’s count. Ziggler gets a cheap shot elbow in and then headlocks. Jey headlocks back but Ziggler powers out. Jey runs Ziggler over with a shoulder and Dallas fires up! Jey CHOPS Ziggler towards the corner and tags in brother Jimmy. The Usos work together to double elbow and elbow drop on Ziggler. Cover, TWO! Ziggler scrambles away to the King’s corner and tags in Roode. The GLORIOUS One circles with Jimmy and tie up. Jimmy wristlocks and wrenches but Roode pulls hair.
Roode knees Jimmy in the corner and stomps him down. Fans rally with “UCE! SO!” but Roode keeps on Jimmy. Jimmy uppercuts and CHOPS back! And again! Jimmy whips corner to corner but Roode puts Jimmy on the apron. Jimmy has a fall but then Ziggler RAMS him into steel steps! That was almost a ZigZag into the steel! The ref restores order, and Jimmy’s knee seems to be the real injury. Medics hurry out to check on Jimmy while Roman and Jey stay close. Roman and Jey want them to check his head as much as they do his leg, but the main thing is, Jimmy is now out of the match. Fans cheer in encouragement, but it seems this Six Man just became a Handicap match. We’ll see more after the break.
SmackDown returns and it does seem to be 3v2 now as Ziggler grapples with Roman. Fans rally for Roman ash e puts Ziggler on the ropes. Roman lets up and Ziggler takes advantage with a kick! Ziggler throws haymakers but Roman counter punches! Roman drags Ziggler up to tag in Jey. The Bloodline mugs with headbutts then Jey cravats to a snapmare. Jey runs to drop a falling headbutt! Cover, TWO! Jey keeps focus as Ziggler gets to ropes again. Ziggler elbows back then brings Jey to the corner. Tag to Corbin, and the Wolf King mugs Jey with body shots. Fans boo but Corbin tells them to shush. Corbin throws big hands but Jey throws uppercuts! Jey rocks Corbin to a corner then runs in to whip. Corbin reverses but Jey stops himself. Corbin slides out then in, but Jey ducks the lariat to uppercut again!
Jey heads up top and leaps, but Corbin gets under. Jey rolls, but turns around into DEEP SIX! Cover, TWO!! Jey survives and Roman is right in Corbin’s face. The ref backs Roman down, this has to wait until Roman’s legal. Corbin drags Jey up and over to throw out of the ring. Fans rally for Roman as Corbin talks trash. This keeps everyone distracted from Ziggler’s cheap shots on Jey. Corbin tags Roode and Roode rams Jey into the LED apron! Roode puts Jey in then keeps between him and Roman. Roode stomps Jey’s hands then turns him around for a neckbreaker! Cover, TWO! Roode keeps on Jey as fans rally, and Ziggler tags in. Roode-Dolph mug Jey and stomp him down, then Ziggler jumps to drop an elbow. Cover, TWO!
Ziggler keeps Jey away from Roman and tags in Corbin. The mugging continues as Corbin drives elbows into Jey’s shoulders. Tag to Roode and Ziggler applauds while fans shout, “Corbin Sucks!” Roode whips Jey into the corner but Jey uses that to hit the King and his court! Jey kicks, Roode blocks, but the dragon whip comes around! Both men are down and Dallas is thunderous! Jey crawls but Corbin is lurking! Corbin trips Roman before the tag! And then rams Roman into steel steps and barriers, and even dumps him into the crowd! The Bloodline is in danger as we go to break.
SmackDown returns again as Corbin and court keep Jey isolated. They have Jey in the ring and fans boo hard as ever. Corbin whips Jey corner to corner but Jey reverses to send Corbin into the post! Both men are down now but Roman is still recovering. Ziggler and Roode coach Corbin on as he crawls, but fans go nuts as Roman returns! Corbin grabs Jey, but Jey still makes the tag! Corbin tags right out to Ziggler, but Roman runs roughshod over Ziggler and Roode! Roman whips, Ziggler reverses, but Roman hits a leaping lariat! Fans are fired up as Roman gives Ziggler the point-blank corner clotheslines! Roman goes all the way to 10 and then runs to BOOT Ziggler down! Roman goes to a corner and hears the fans getting even louder. Roman aims at Ziggler, locks ‘n’ loads, but Roode gets in to distract. Corbin attacks Roman from behind!
SUPERKICK from Ziggler! Cover, TWO!! Roman lives and Corbin is furious! Ziggler is freaking out, too, but he quickly refocuses to bring Roman up and throw him out. Ziggler distracts the ref so that Roode and Corbin can stomp away! The King and his court get away with that one, and Ziggler goes out to fetch Roman. Ziggler drags Roman up and puts him back in the ring, and then drops another elbow. Cover, TWO! Roman still lives, but Ziggler rakes his eyes! Tag to Corbin and Corbin stomps Roman down. Corbin drags Roman up and knees low, then runs to DECK Roman with that right hand. Corbin mocks Roman’s posing as fans boo and jeer. Corbin then rains down rights on Roman over and over and over.
The ref reprimands Corbin but Corbin tags out to Roode. Roode winds it up, “GLORIOUS~!” Roode kicks, but Roman rolls him up! TWO and a dead lift for a POWERBOMB! And Jey has returned! Roman and Roode crawl for their corners as fans rally up. But now Ziggler trips Jey to deny the tag and throw him into barriers! And then back the other way! And then across the desk! Roode tags to Corbin as Ziggler flips the desk hood on Jey. Corbin throws big hands on Roman, then body shots in the corner. The ref backs Corbin off but Corbin says not to touch him. Tag to Ziggler and Ziggler smiles as he brings Roman up and out for a neckbreaker. Cover, TWO! But Roman surviving only means taking more damage.
Ziggler backs off to tune up the band. Fans boo and jeer because Ziggler’s no Heartbreak Kid. Roman rises, Ziggler comes over, SUPERMAN PUNCH instead! Corbin and Roode can’t believe this! And more than that, here comes JIMMY! Bad leg or not, Jimmy wants back in! Hot tags and Jimmy rallies on Roode! Mule kick, uppercut and Samoan Drop! Fans are fired up and the “UCE! OH!” echoes out. Jimmy uppercuts then DIVES onto Corbin! Corbin goes over the desk and Jimmy hits Roode again. Uppercut for Ziggler, Jimmy climbs up, big crossbody! Cover, but Corbin gets in to break it just in time! Corbin reels Jimmy in but Jimmy escapes, SUPERMAN PUNCH for Corbin! Roman wants after Corbin now, and he gets to throw BIG uppercuts!
Roman keeps on Corbin all around the ring and throws him out into the crowd! Falls Count Anywhere comes a few days early with this! Roman throws a trash can into Corbin! Roode is still down in the ring as Roman beats down Corbin in front of the fans. They end up going by the stage and to the back. Jimmy uses his one good leg to climb, but Ziggler anchors it. Jimmy shoves Ziggler away, Jey LEAPS from the desk! Ziggler is down but Roode climbs up to intercept Jimmy! Jimmy headbutts Roode away and adjusts, for the USO SPLASH! Cover, the Usos and Roman win!!
Winners: Roman Reigns & The Usos, Jimmy Uso pinning
The Bloodline has this on lock down! The court got put in the Uso Penitentiary, but will Roman put Corbin in the dog house in Houston? Where in the arena will that match even end?!
WWE Backstage is going to be huge in Miami!
Not only with the entirety of The New Day be there with Renee Young and Booker T, but so will Roman Reigns! Will the Big Dog be feeling #GOODT after the Royal Rumble?
Michael Cole welcomes Lacey Evans to the stage!
The Sassy Southern Belle is here ahead of her SmackDown Women’s Championship match with Bayley in Houston, and fans are happy to see her. To look back at how this all started, Lacey simply questioned the leadership tactics of Bayley and Sasha Banks. But why did she do that? Lacey says it’s because they’re just bullies disrespecting the other women. Lacey learned early on to stand up, not be intimidated, and that’s what she did. Michael was able to talk with Lacey more about her “rough upbringing” growing up. Is that one of the reasons Lacey challenges the bullies? Lacey does admit that her upbringing wasn’t the best. Her father suffered and worked hard against addiction and depression and eventually lost that battle. That is something that Lacey deals with and uses as motivation to show the world that it doesn’t matter what hand you were dealt. You can play the game and do what you want in life.
And Lacey isn’t done by far. The hardest part of being in this position is knowing what the bullies are doing, what this world is coming to, and knowing that she has even this chance to set a proper example. She made it, there is nothing that you can’t do if you set your mind to it. That is why Lacey joined the Marines to prove part of her message, and then she eventually came to the WWE. One thing about Bayley and Sasha that Lacey must keep in mind: questioning their leadership, becoming champion would mean being the leader herself. What kind of leader will Lacey be? An inspirational one that pushes through and accomplish goals. Lacey will show not what she’s been through but what everyone else has been through doesn’t hold you back.
Lacey also sets an example for daughter, Summer Evans, who is also a fighter. We now review footage of about a month ago, Sasha VS Lacey, and it spilled to the outside, right in front of the Evans family. Summer shouted at Sasha and even growled, but Sasha mocked her for it. Lacey seeing that for herself, she is angry. But she is proud that Summer stood up to a bully. That was very brave. What others didn’t see is when later, Lacey had to comfort her crying daughter that this is her job. Sasha took advantage of having Summer nearby, and Summer is so worried for her mother. Lacey put Sasha on the shelf, and she’ll put Bayley- Bayley attacks Lacey first! The bad bad bully is pulled away by referees but Bayley mocks her, “Where’s your daughter now?!” Lacey gets up with teeth grit and eyes burning. Will Lacey make Bayley pay in interest for that one?
Backstage interview with Carmella and Dana Brooke!
The FABULOUS Princess and Ms. Flex Appeal are both declaring for the Women’s Royal Rumble. “It’s time to rumble, baby!” They’re ready, and Mella is the odds on favorite. After all, she did win the Women’s WrestleMania Battle Royal, and she is the original Ms. Money in the Bank to also successfully cash in and become champion. So don’t get it twisted, #MellaIsMoney. But Dana points out that everyone knows her Wikipedia. This year, every woman has a chance to swing for the fences. Friend VS friend, foe VS foe, every woman for herself. Dana may be a huge underdog, but she knows her worth and what she’ll have to do to win.
Wait, Lacey is after Bayley already! She’s throwing her off equipment trunks and then into ladders! Security hurries over, and even Dana and Carmella stop Lacey. But then Lacey takes off a shoe and uses it on Bayley! SmackDown goes to break, but will the chaos end?
Bliss-Cross VS Fire & Desire!
The Goddess and her crazy bestie got the better of Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville, and that was even with Otis Dozovic there to save his “sweet peach” from certain disaster. But now that things are going to be 2v2, will Alexa and Nikki keep things rolling? Or will Mandy and Sonya make big moves towards the Women’s Rumble?
Before the match, SmackDown shares a moment between Mandy and Sonya backstage. Mandy apologized to Sonya for the distractions, but Sonya lets it slide. It was silly to have gotten Otis involved. In the end, their team is Fire & Desire, not Fire & Desire & Dozer. That’d be weird. But anyway, things seemed to have been smoothed over. Will they stay that way?
The teams sort out and Alexa starts against Sonya. They circle, tie up, and Sonya waistlocks to slam Alexa down. But wait, Bayley and Lacey run down the ramp!? This is getting out of hand! They spill into the ring and get caught up in the match!
No Contest
Alexa and Nikki fight on Lacey’s side while Fire & Desire do what they can to help Bayley! This might even be what the Women’s Rumble looks like. Bayley decks Alexa and bails out, but the referees have to separate the others. Fans want to “Let Them Fight!” as Alexa and Nikki catch up to Bayley. Order is restored somehow, but will it just take off again once we’re in Houston?
Elias encounters Braun Strowman backstage.
The Drifter and the Monster Among Men are a duo to take on Team Sami, up next!
Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.
“Brothers and Sisters, the Royal Rumble is upon us.” Thirty men enter, only one can win. That one faces the World or Universal Champion at WrestleMania. Elias vows to put his heart and soul into winning, so he has just one question for Dallas: “Who wants to Walk With Elias?!” Dallas does! Elias has a song titled Texas Dream, so please clap along.
“This year’s Rumble, starts with The Beast. Luckily for you, it’ll end with me. So good-bye Seth, Messiah you ain’t. Good-bye, Randy Orton, Rey and Ricochet. Before this next part, I need someone to help me sing. So please welcome the Monster Among Men to the ring!” BRAUN makes his way out now, and Elias makes it clear that it is every man for himself. Strowman wasn’t ready for this, but Elias felt it’d be a special treat to do a duet. Dallas, do you want to hear Strowman sing with Elias? “YES! YES! YES!” Well there you have it. So Elias offers Strowman his mic. Neither man is one to disappoint the fans, so Strowman gives it a go. Elias plays and Strowman counts himself in. But then Team Sami interrupts!
Elias & Braun Strowman VS Shinsuke Nakamura & Cesaro w/ Sami Zayn!
The Monster will #WalkWithElias as they both look to get their hands on Team Sami! Will one man also earn himself that sought after WWE Intercontinental Championship match while they’re at it?
The teams sort out and Cesaro ties up with Elias. Elias headlocks, shifts to a hammerlock, but Cesaro reverses to then rabbit punch Elias in the head. Cesaro throws European Uppercuts and haymakers, then whips Elias to the ropes. Elias blocks the hip toss to scoop and long dart Cesaro into buckles! Elias clotheslines and fans fire up. Elias wrenches Cesaro and then goes to the corner. Elias starts his rendition of Old School, with the METEORA mix! Elias brings Cesaro up but Cesaro whips him to the corner. Elias hits Shinsuke and then throws forearms, but Shinsuke gets in. This distracts so that Sami can swipe at Elias and Cesaro and LARIAT him! Cesaro throws Elias out and distracts the ref so that Shinsuke can ROUNDHOUSE Elias! Strowman runs in to run Shinsuke over! Sami goes running for the hills as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns as Cesaro grind Elias down in a chinlock. Elias fights his way up but is put in the Team Sami corner. Elias boots Cesaro back then elbows Shinsuke. Elias fights more but Cesaro whips him back in. Elias goes up and boots Cesaro back! Both men are down and crawling for their corners, but Cesaro drags Elias away. Elias boots Cesaro away but Shinsuke tags in! Shinsuke clobbers Elias and taunts Strowman. Cesaro gets in and BOOTS Strowman down! But then Elias throws Cesaro out! Elias ducks one kick but not Shinsuke’s second! Shinsuke aims from the corner, “YAO~!” But Elias KNEES Shinsuke down first! Both men are down again, and Strowman returns! Hot tag to the Monster Among Men!
Strowman rallies with big shoulders and elbows to run Shinsuke and Cesaro over! Shin is in a corner, Strowman corner splashes! And TOSSES Shinsuke to the other corner, for another corner splash! Then Strowman CLUBS Shinsuke down! Fans fire up with Strowman and Sami panics. Strowman runs in but misses, Shinsuke roundhouses! Shinsuke hops up, flying knee! Tag to Cesaro and Cesaro cravats Strowman. Together, Team Sami throws Strowman into a post! And then hits a Double Russian Leg Sweep! Penalty Kick! Cover, TWO! Strowman survives but Cesaro hits a basement EuroUpper! Cover, TWO! Sami protests but it’s really just a distraction so Shinsuke can fetch a chair! But Elias comes running around the way to push Shinsuke into a post! Elias hits Cesaro, Strowman scoops Cesaro for the MONSTER SLAM!
Tag to Elias, and he goes up top for the MACHO ELBOW! Cover, Elias and Strowman win!
Winners: Elias & Braun Strowman, Elias pinning
It wasn’t pretty, but it was a win! The Drifter gets some momentum into the Rumble, but will it help him when The Beast will be present? And will Strowman ever get that title match with the King of Strong Style?
Big E oils up!
And a lot… He even has an oiling assistant get his legs! Kofi Kingston can’t even. But Kofi knows Big E’s motto: “If ya boy is greasy, eliminating can’t be easy!” Big E hugs his oil boy bye, but then says he realizes the Rumble is Sunday. Tonight is about Kofi going 1v1 with John Morrison! AKA the Prince of Parkour who thinks he can back flip to where he was 8 years ago. It’s one thing to make a big return, that’s easy. It’s another thing to back it up. And backing up what one does is the expertise of who? Who who who? The NEW~ DAY~! They’ve been backing up their tag title reigns, and after handling some bidness, it’s on to Houston! Kofi loves this time of year, he is excited for the countdown! It don’t matter what number the New Day comes out, the Power of Positivity is on their side! Time to climb that mountain one more time together. And do it for ya boy, Xavier Woods! Why? BECAUSE~ New! Day Rocks!
Backstage interview with Baron Corbin!
The Wolf King insists he is not concerned losing in the Six Man Tag. He went toe-to-toe with Roman out there and didn’t back down. What is Kayla Braxton doing Sunday? Probably asking more stupid questions. What is Corbin doing Sunday? Facing Roman in Falls Count Anywhere where he will embarrass Roman with the beating of a lifetime. Corbin will use every inch of Minute Maid Park, and will make that handcuffing and dog-food smearing look like child’s play. “Roman Reigns will not make the Royal Rumble match.” But Corbin will, and vows to win to then crown himself the NEW Universal Champion.
SmackDown runs The Royal Rumble by the numbers.
“The prize: a world championship opportunity at WrestleMania. The challenge: outlasting 29 other superstars, eliminating your opponents by tossing them over the top rope so that both feet hit the floor.” Success lies in the numbers. In the 32 years, from 1988 to tonight, 1070 total competitors have entered. That is 6596 FEET. The longest spent in a single rumble for the men was Daniel Bryan at one hour and 16 minutes, while the women has Natalya at just over 56 minutes. The most important thing about a Rumble is to do everything you have to in order to survive. A literal highlight reel of Naomi, John Morrison and Kofi Kingston shows you just how creative one can be to avoid the floor like lava. Others just have a hard time getting into the ring. Santino Marella was the one-second wonder, and Titus O’Neil was Titus World SLIDE~!
But Houston’s Minute Maid Park will host a historic Rumble in itself. Because for the first time ever, the reigning, defending, undisputed WWE Heavyweight Champion of the World, The Beast, BRRROCK, LESNARRR will enter as number one. Back in 2003, Lesnar won the Rumble as just a rookie. Now he is a veteran and dominant as ever. Only seven have won multiple Rumbles, with Stone Cold Steve Austin being the only one with three. Furthermore, entering as number one has very slim odds of winning it all. Will Lesnar turn Houston into Suplex City? Or will this most competitive field to date change that? Three brands, two matches, one night. Time’s up. Are you ready to rumble?
Sheamus speaks.
“Three weeks ago, the Celtic Warrior returned to SmackDown to exterminate the disease spreading vermin that have infested my home.” Chad Gable was the loudest little rat he could find, and he Brogue kicked Shorty G upside-down. But that sneaky rodent bit back. To Gable, Sheamus says, “Good for you, little fella.” Enjoy yourself while you can. Because Sunday, Sheamus won’t make the same mistake. This Sunday, Sheamus finishes what he started. “And like a rat out of hell”, Gable will be gone before the morning comes.
Kofi Kingston w/ Big E VS John Morrison w/ The Miz!
AWWWWW~ Dallas~! Don’t you dare be sour! Watch two of the greatest Rumble acrobats compete just days before entering that iconic match! Will there be iconic moments from both men on Sunday? What about iconic moments here tonight?
SmackDown returns as Morrison and Miz make their awesome entrances. Miz has a mic to speak on last week. Morrison made his in-ring return after being away from the WWE for 8 long years. How did the fans celebrate it? High-five? Blow off the roof like they would for everyone else? No, they booed. Miz doesn’t get why. Is it because Morrison is still associated with The Miz, and that The Miz has changed? Miz says he hasn’t changed, he’s still himself. Just watch Miz & Mrs. have its season two premiere after NXT! It is a winner, Miz is a winner, Morrison is a winner! Morrison will keep winning, and could even win the Rumble because “WE are officially entering the Royal Rumble.” So whether it is the Prince of Parkour of the Most Must-See Superstar, Houston will be… AWESOME! As awesome as Miz makes it sound, will this match be positively awesome?
The bell rings and Morrison circles with Kofi. They tie up, Morrison puts Kofi in the corner and then gives him a shove. Kofi shoves back, and Morrison swings hands. Kofi blocks,s wings kicks and avoids kicks. The fans like the exchange as the two tie up again. They go around, Morrison puts Kofi in a corner and whips him corner to corner. Morrison runs in, monkey flips, but Kofi lands on his feet! Kofi grins and runs back in, monkey flips and Morrison FLOPS! Miz says that’s okay, just a misstep. Kofi whips, Morrison stops himself and then sends Kofi out. Morrison builds speed to FLY! Kofi gets out of the way and Morrison manages to combat roll through. Kofi bounces and lifts off to senton onto Morrison! Fans fire up with Kofi as he puts Morrison back in the ring. Miz gets up close as he coaches Morrison, and Morrison shoves Kofi into the post! Tensions run high as we go to break.
SmackDown returns again and fans rally for the New Day as Kofi kicks back at Morrison. Kofi gets up but Morrison is on him with EuroUppers. Morrison whips Kofi corner to corner, then runs in. Kofi slips out to kick back then slide under. Kofi sunset flips but Morrison slips out to Shining Wizard hard! Morrison goes up, Starship Pain FLOP! Kofi gets to the apron and climbs up as fans rally again. Morrison stands, Kofi’s springboard ax handle takes him down! Kofi rallies with big chops and a dropkick! Kofi runs but into a mule kick. Morrison whips Kofi corner to corner but Kofi goes up, up and around to huricanrana! Morrison gets up and runs into Kofi’s DOUBLE STOMPS! Cover, TWO! Kofi keeps his cool and Big E coaches him up. Kofi Penalty Kicks Morrison and then fires up! Dallas fire sup with him and the NEW~ DAY~ Boom Drop!
Kofi goes to a corner and fans fire up even more. They clap along with Kofi as he aims at Morrison. Morrison rises, ducks under and HEEL KICKS the Trouble in Paradise down! Cover, TWO!! Morrison came so close and Miz insists that was three. Morrison drags Kofi back up and around, but Kofi swings on him. Morrison ducks the punch to put Kofi up top. Morrison throws big hands and climbs up, but Kofi hits back. Kofi headbutts Morrison down and Morrison tumbles into the ref! Miz checks on the ref, or rather distracts him, so that Morrison can poke Kofi in the eyes! Morrison then climbs up for a SUPER SPANISH FLY! Cover, TWO!! Kofi survives and Miz can’t believe it! Fans rally for Kofi but Morrison kicks him while he’s down.
Morrison throws more hands to wobble Kofi as fans start to duel. Kofi catches Morrison, SOS! Cover, TWO!! Morrison survives and shocks Kofi now! Kofi stalks Morrison but Morrison trips him up. Morrison high stack covers, and uses the ropes! But Big E stops that just in time! Kofi KICKS Morrison right from the mat! Miz shoves Big E! Big E glares and chases Miz around the way, then Kofi gives Miz Trouble in Paradise! But Morrison clobbers Kofi into the drop zone! STARSHIP PAIN!! Cover, Morrison wins!
Winner: John Morrison, by pinfall
That’s a 2-0 sweep for the Shaman of Sexy over the seven-time tag team champions! Will this earn Morrison and Miz an awesome SmackDown Tag Team Championship opportunity as we head for WrestleMania?
Michael Cole presides over the Universal Championship contract signing!
The special stipulation that Daniel Bryan himself wanted is a Strap Match! There will be a literal leather strap tying champion and challenger together, and there will be no disqualifications or count-outs, only a pinfall or submission ends the match. First out, the challenger, Daniel Bryan. Dallas is happy to see the Yes Movement return! And of course, we now welcome the champion, Bray Wyatt. But first, Firefly Fun House! Bray is apparently trying to fax something. He realizes he’s a bit late. He’s trying to send the final copy of the contract, but it’s so hard getting this thing to work. Welp, maybe this is a blessing in disguise? Why would Bryan willing tie himself to “him?” It’s MADNESS. But Bray calls customer service real quick.
Yes, hello. Yes, English or Ancient Sumerian please. Bryan interrupts the call by saying Bray needs to “cut the crap.” Bray is sick, but he can at least show up to sign the contract. That’s not nice, Bryan. Bray is not sick. He’s never been better! As for Bryan’s request, Bray’s attorney, Mercy the Buzzard (yes he has his license) has advised Bray to stay in the Fun House. Enough! Bryan finally sees through the charades and the games, Bray living in his fantasy world. But Bray just runs away from everything. From his past, his mistakes, but now there will be nowhere to run because the strap will tie them together. There’s nowhere to run or hide. Wait, mistake? YOWIE WOWIE, that was the word of the day! YAY~! Because this is all about Bryan’s mistakes, not Bray’s. Bryan never did learn his lesson from that betrayal. Bryan is a liar, and now he will pay. One other thing, it won’t be Bray, it’ll be him. So he should sign the contract.
That’s right! The lights go out, and when they return… IT’S THE FIEND! Red lights and all! The Fiend takes the other end of the strap, and the brawl is on! The Fiend uses the Mandible Claw to smother Bryan! The Fiend yells and shouts as he suffocates Bryan, then hits SISTER ABIGAIL. The Fiend rips at Bryan’s shirt and bares Bryan’s back. The Fiend measures a length of the strap to LASH Bryan on that back! This is what Bryan chose, and now he’s paying for it! The Fiend laughs as he unties himself from Bryan so that he can sign the contract. But then he thinks about it, and doesn’t want to use the pen. He STABS his own hand to draw blood!! This contract is now a blood oath that they will settle things with the strap. Fans chant, “You’ve Got Issues!” but The Fiend sets the contract down by Bryan’s side before disappearing. Will Bryan regret making this deal with the demented? Or will Bryan finally help us all wake up from this nightmare?
My Thoughts:
This was a really good go-home episode! And with very few matches. The Six Man Tag was an incredible way to open the episode, and I really like that use of Jimmy “injuring” his leg to come back at the right moment. While I want this rivalry to end with Corbin and Roman, I would love if Roman and the Usos stuck together more closely after this. The Bloodline should have its own opportunity to be a golden trio with the tag titles and I’m going to assume the Universal title. Corbin does good at talking some post-loss smack, so I’m thinking he loses at the Rumble to further humiliate him. But please, let it end there. Please no Dog Food Match, I can’t stress that enough. Lacey’s promo was pretty good, again this Face turn is as I was expecting her to go in NXT. Bayley’s attack and the brawl was great. It got in the way of the women’s tag but that actually made it better, because that’s just how much Bayley and Lacey hate each other.
I really liked the tag match of Elias & Strowman VS Team Sami. Letting Elias get the cover works, because it keeps Strowman and Nakamura even. I just hope we get that Intercontinental Championship at Elimination Chamber, not Super Showdown. I can’t see this stretching to Mania, that’s too long from now. The New Day had a great promo, Morrison VS Kofi as the main event match was great, and it doesn’t seem we’re getting the tag title match at the Rumble. I hope we get it at the Chamber, because again, Mania is just too far away. There needs to be one match now, and then maybe they can bring it to Mania in a rematch or something. The title contract segment was great, because of the swerve. Granted, it seemed pretty obvious The Fiend was going to be the persona defending the title, but The Fiend appearing and beating Bryan up like that was good. The blood signing was freaky but perfectly within The Fiend’s character. That Strap Match is going to be brutal, I can’t wait.
My Score: 8.6/10
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Four championships on one Friday night!
AEW Rampage hosts FOUR (non AEW) championship matches on one night! Will the champions make it through with their titles?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- AAA Mega Championship Triple Threat: El Hijo del Vikingo VS Komander VS Dralistico; Vikingo wins and retains the title.
- NJPW World Television Championship: Zack Sabre Jr. VS Action Andretti; ZSJ wins and retains the title.
- NJPW Strong Women’s Championship: Willow Nightingale VS Emi Sakura; Willow wins and retains the title.
- ROH Pure Championship: Katsuyori Shibata VS Lee Moriarty; Shibata wins and retains the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
AAA Mega Championship Triple Threat: El Hijo del Vikingo VS Komander VS Dralistico w/ Jose!
Two of these men teamed up just last night on ROH to win a Six Man Tag, but now they are opponents for the top title in AAA Lucha Libre. Meanwhile, La Faccion Ingobernable’s Prince of Silver and Gold is hungry for gold, will he take it away from Vikingo?
The bell rings and the three circle. Fans rally up for “LUCHA! LUCHA!” and “LUCHA LIBRE!” Dralistico swings, Vikingo dodges, but then Komander ducks Vikingo’s kick! Dralistico picks Vikingo up, throws him at Komander, but Komander throws Vikingo back. Vikingo wheelbarrows and arm-drags Dralistico but handsprings through. Vikingo dodges Komander now, shoves him to ropes, but Komander springboards! Vikingo gets under the crossbody, Komander tumbles and rolls but Dralistico jumps over, and then Vikingo jumps over Dralistico. Komander jumps over Vikingo, Dralistico jumps over Komander again, and they cycle continues!
Fans fire up for jump after jump, and then the three stand off. Dralistico raises the LFI fist and the three circle. Dralistico shoves the other two to then DOUBLE SHOTGUN! They bail out, Dralistico runs to FLY! Dralistico wipes both men out and fans fire up! Dralistico RAMS Komander into steel steps, and then he runs and RAMS Vikingo into railing! Fans cheer, Jose pats Dralistico on the shoulder and Dralistico goes back to BOOT Komander down. Dralistico puts Komander in, aims and springboards, to SWANTON! Cover, TWO! Dralistico wants a faster count but the ref says his count was fair.
Dralistico stomps Komander but fans taunt him. Dralistico bails out, tells the fans he’s done with them, but then they boo. Dralistico goes back to the ring, brings Komander up and tells everyone to hush. Dralistico CHOPS and Komander sits right down! Fans cheer as Dralistico says one more time, and he CHOPS, and CHOPS, and whips Komander. Komander reverses, runs in but is put on the apron. Dralistico swings, Komander blocks, and then Komander CHOPS! Komander slingshots up but Dralistico trips him! Dralistico ROCKS Komander, puts him in the ropes, and then goes up the corner.
Fans fire up as Dralistico WOE STOMPS Komander to the apron!! Fans fire up but then Vikingo gets in to go up and up and AIRHARA MOONSAULT! Direct hit on Dralistico and the fans are thunderous! Vikingo gets Dralistico and Komander in the ring, and then runs in at the corner. Dralistico stands up into the GAMANGIRI! Vikingo goes up the corner, to IMPLODER DRAGON RANA!! Fans fire up as Vikingo keeps Dralistico in the ring to then go up the ropes, OUTSIDE-IN PHOENIX SPLASH!! Cover, Komander breaks it! Fans fire up as this continues, they love “LUCHA! LUCHA!”
Vikingo GAMANGIRIS Dralistico, Komander adds a knee, and they double whip corner to corner. Vikingo sends Komander in but Dralistico TOSSES him out! Vikingo and Dralistico step up face to face, and Vikingo CHOPS! Dralistico CHOPS! Vikingo CHOPS again! Dralistico drops to a knee, and fans rally up. Vikingo throws forearms but Dralistico gives them back. Dralistico then SOBATS, KNEES, and runs, but into a SCREW HIGH KICK! Cover, TWO! Dralistico survives and Vikingo is a bit surprised. Fans continue to rally as Vikingo sees Komander on the apron. Vikingo storms up to throw forearms on Komander while Rampage goes picture in picture.
Vikingo GAMANGIRIS Komander down to the floor, then he fires forearms on Dralistico. Vikingo gets the fans fired up as he whips corner to corner. Dralistico reverses, runs in, but Vikingo puts him on the apron. Dralistico bumps Viking off buckles, ROUNDHOUSES him, then springboards, FLYING CODE BREAKER! Cover, TWO! Vikingo is still in this and Jose is upset. Dralistico drags Vikingo up, pushes him to ropes, then goes out to look under the ring. He brings out a TABLE! Jose helps Dralistico set that up at ringside, then Dralistico goes to fetch Vikingo. Komander is there but Dralistico ROCKS him and RAMS him into railing.
Dralistico CHOKES Vikingo against the railing, Rampage returns to single picture, and Dralistico puts Vikingo in the ring. Fans rally up, Dralistico runs to SUPERKICK Komander in the corner! Dralistico tranquilos on the top rope and fans are torn. Dralistico runs side to side again but Komander avoids the boot wash to GAMANGIRI! Komander springboards and double jumps, FLYING RANA!! Not the cleanest but fans fire up. Vikingo returns, Komander goes Matrix to then arm-drag Vikingo around! And dropkick! Fans fire up again as Vikingo brawls with Dralistico on the outside, and Komander climbs the far corner!
Komander tightrope walks to double jump MOONSAULT! “This is Awesome!” as Komander puts Dralistico in the ring. Komander goes up the corner again, tightrope walks again, 450 SPLASH!! Cover, but Vikingo DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS it apart! Fans fire up as Dralistico flops out onto the table. Vikingo whips Komander, Komander reverses, but Vikingo goes up and Komander hits buckles! Vikingo then springboards to FLYING POISON-RANA Komander down!! Vikingo puts Komander out on the table with Dralistico, and then runs the ropes! Fans fire up as Vikingo goes up and 630 SENTONS through the senton!!
“This is Awesome!” but Dralistico avoided disaster! Dralistico puts Vikingo in, slashes his throat, POWER- RANA!! Cover, VIKINGO WINS!!
Winner: El Hijo del Vikingo, by pinfall (still AAA Mega Champion)
Dralistico is furious that victory was snatched away from him in an instant! But this is why you cannot underestimate El Hijo del Vikingo! Will his AAA Mega reign continue through the summer?
Backstage interview with Team Triple J.
Lexi Nair is with Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt, Satnam Singh, as well as Jeff & Karen Jarrett, “and the talk all week has been that you, Sonjay Dutt, and your group will be suspended.” WHAT?! Fined? Suspended? The only ones who should be facing that is AEW itself! They backed Triple J into a corner and they came out swinging like any real fighters would! Lethal feels that there should be consequences for Aubrey Edwards! She’s been against Triple J since the dawn of time! Something needs to be done about her! Jeff adds that there’s been enough talk these past five days. Should the heat go on the promotion? Should the heat go on Briscoe? On Aubrey?
The reality of the fact is, these five people are walking, talking, fire-breathing heat! But wait, here comes Mark Briscoe! He wants everyone to simmer down. There will be no suspensions, he assures us that. Mark talked with Tony Khan, Tony promised them there would be no suspensions. Because if Triple J is suspended, then they can’t be here. Because if they aren’t here, then they can’t get the ass whooping they deserve! Lethal wants Mark to hold on but Mark tells Lethal to shut up! We ain’t talking about Lethal! We’re talking about Jeff and KAREN! What?! “We?” Who is “we?!” AUBREY EDWARDS!!
Triple J cannot believe this. Aubrey wants Karen? Then there’s nothing but air and opportunity between them. So then Aubrey CHOKES Karen!! Karen and Aubrey start scrapping and Triple J, other refs and security rush in to stop this! When and where will Double J & the one true Karen have to face off with the Sussex County Chicken and one pissed off zebra?
NJPW World Television Championship: Zack Sabre Jr. VS Action Andretti!
Speaking of just last night on ROH, the Frontman of TMDK just defended this belt against Rocky Romero to prove a point to “Samoan Joseph” about who is the better, harder working Television Champion. And here he is again as part of this championship edition of Rampage! Will the ZSJ Show continue on into the summer block? Or will NJPW have some #LightsCameraAction?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see if Action gets his 15 minutes of fame!
The bell rings and we’re on the clock. The two circle, fans rally, feel things out, and ZSJ shoots in to waistlock and full nelson. Then he spins Action to a cravat, but Action pries at the hold. ZSJ facelocks now, Action wrenches out of that but ZSJ rolls and slips away. Fans cheer this opening exchange and the two reset. Action shoots in but ZSJ avoids him. They tie up with knuckle locks, ZSJ bridges back and wrenches around to then wrangle Action with a top wristlock. Fans cheer and ZSJ digs a knee into the shoulder. Action rolls, cartwheels, arm-drags, but fans cheer as ZSJ holds onto the wrist!
ZSJ twists the wrist, bends the fingers, drags Action up and wrenches the arm to wrangle him again. Action keeps his shoulders up, fans rally, and Action kips up to wrench and MONKEY FLIP! But ZSJ still holds onto the wrist! Fans rally, ZSJ bends the fingers and he tortures Action’s arm. Action fights up but ZSJ keeps after the fingers. ZSJ flexes but Action stands. Action spins, flips and arm-drags free! Action then CHOPS ZSJ, then knuckle locks to go up and up and FLYING ARM-DRAG! ZSJ flounders up, Action DROPKICKS him down! Fans fire up as Action runs to IMPLODER TORNILLO! Cover, TWO!
ZSJ is still in this but he goes to a corner. Action runs in, but ZSJ dodges. Action goes up, leaps, and FLYING RANAS! ZSJ bails out, fans fire up and Action builds speed to DIVE! Direct hit into the railing! Fans are fired up with Action and he brings ZSJ back up. Action puts ZSJ in, slingshots, but ZSJ shoves him! Action lands safe but swings into body scissors, which ZSJ makes into a HANGING TRIANGLE! ZSJ did this to Rocky last night! The ref counts, ZSJ lets go at 4 and he drags Action back in, to WRING the arm out! Fans sing “OH~ Zack Sabre Junior~” as he stalks Action. ZSJ sits on the arm, hammerlocks it, and TWISTS!
Action writhes while fans are torn over the savagery. ZSJ gets Action’s leg, steps over to get the arm, and he STOMPS the arm! “OI! TV Tekkers, mates!” ZSJ stalks Action to a corner, brings him up and UPPERCUTS! And UPPERCUTS! “This is Awesome!” and ZSJ knuckle locks to wrench Action. Action endures as ZSJ twists the wrist more, and then ZSJ KICKS a leg. Action stays up so ZSJ wrenches and twists the wrist. Action throws body shots and CHOPS! ZSJ jumps on to drag Action down to a DISARMER! Action endures, reaches out, and fans rally. Action kicks around, ZSJ pulls on the arm, but Action gets the ROPEBREAK!
ZSJ lets go in frustration but he storms up to drag Action up. ZSJ has a double wristlock but Action endures. Fans rally, ZSJ jumps on to body scissor! Action stays up but ZSJ keeps on that arm. Action throws body shots, then suplexes high and HARD! Both men are down and fans are thunderous! Action roars, runs, springboards, BEAUTIFUL DISASTER! Cover, TWO! ZSJ survives and fans rally up again. Action brings ZSJ up, but ZSJ fights the torture rack to wrench and PELE the arm! And then he drop toeholds Action so he can STOMP the arm again! Fans are torn while Action clutches the bad shoulder.
ZSJ drags Action up, but Action blocks the Pele to ENZIGURI! Action puts ZSJ up top, CHOPS him, then climbs up after him. But ZSJ gets the bad arm to twist it! And YANK it! Action throws body shots, forearms, but ZSJ DECKS Action! ZSJ eggs on the fans, the fans cheer, and Action kips up! PELE!! Action runs corner to corner and jumps up to SUPER STEINER!! Cover, TWO!! ZSJ survives and Action can’t believe it! Action drags ZSJ up, torture racks, but ZSJ has a SLEEPER! Action sputters, he starts fading! But Action powers up! ZSJ lets go, slips free, but Action drops to victory roll! TWO!!!
ZSJ KICKS Action in the leg! And then KICKS him in the arm! ZSJ is mad now, but he runs into a SUPERKICK! Action goes up, POISON-RANA!! ZSJ flops around, Action runs in again, “This is Awesome!” as Action SHOTGUNS ZSJ down! ZSJ is in the drop zone, Action goes up, SPLIT-LEG MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO!! ZSJ survives again but Action goes right to the apron. Action springboards, but flies into a TAKEDOWN! FUJIWARA ARMBAR!!! Action flails around, but ZSJ gets the other arm! Modified Rings of Saturn, into JIM BREAKS ARMBAR!! Action verbally quits, ZSJ wins!!
Winner: Zack Sabre Jr, by submission (still NJPW World TV Champion)
Action’s 15 minutes of fame were really just over 10 minutes as The Frontman does it again! But now he moves on to defend this title at NJPW Dominion on Sunday against Jeff Cobb in a highly anticipated rematch. The Mighty Don’t Kneel, but will ZSJ get crushed by the Imperial Unit?
NJPW Strong Women’s Championship: Willow Nightingale VS Emi Sakura!
The Babe with the Power, too sweet to be sour, is the very-first NJPW Strong Women’s Champion after a powerful run at Resurgence. But will Willow make it through her first defense? Or will the Queen of Joshi take Willow’s throne already?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and one way or another, we witness a historic first defense!
The bell rings and the two RAM each other! Fans rally up as Emi and Willow RAM shoulders again! And again! Emi eggs Willow on so she says okay! Willow runs, RAMS Emi, but Emi roars! Emi runs, Willow follows and runs Emi over! Fans fire up and Willow waves. Willow brings Emi up to snap suplex! Willow runs up to CHOP Emi in the corner, then follows her along the ropes. Willow CHOPS Emi in the other corner and fans rally up. Willow puts Emi in the third corner, CHOPS, CHOPS and MACHINE GUN CHOPS! Fans fire up but Emi avoids the big chop. Emi runs in but Willow goes out to the apron.
Emi stops from hitting buckles, but Willow still counter punches her! Willow then brings Emi up, and fans fire up as they go up the ropes! Emi fights the suplex, tries to suplex Willow, but Willow fights to try again. But Emi rakes the eyes! Emi runs to BODY CHECK Willow off the apron! Emi goes out, signals to media to move, and laughs before she TOSSES Willow at railing! Fans rally as Emi runs in to SPLASH Willow against the railing! The ring count climbs as Emi drags Willow up and Rampage goes picture in picture.
Emi puts Willow in the ring, taunts the fans a bit, soaks up some heat, and then takes her time going up the steel steps. Willow sits up, Emi steps in, but Willow throws body shots! Emi CHOPS Willow, Willow goes to ropes, and Emi CHOPS her again! Willow goes to a corner, Emi soaks up the heat, and she storms up to CHOP again! And again! And again! Emi swaggers around, storms back up, but Willow CHOPS! And CHOPS! And ROCKS! Willow CHOPS again! Willow falls, Emi hurries to sit her up into a DRAGON SLEEPER! Willow endures, fights around, but Emi cranks the hold!
Fans rally, Willow fights but Emi pushes her to a cover, TWO! Willow is free of the hold, but Emi CHOPS her! And CHOPS her again! Willow eggs Emi on but Emi pokes her in the eye! The ref reprimands but Emi just grins. Emi brings Willow up to HEADBUTT! Willow staggers but she throws body shots. Emi eggs Willow on and SLAPS her! Emi brings Willow around to reel her in and hook the arms. But Willow fights with body shots! Willow fires off but Emi CLUBS her down as Rampage goes to break.
Rampage returns and Willow has Emi in a corner. Willow goes corner to corner to back body block! And clothesline! And snapmare to then go up. Emi stands, Willow MISSILE DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Emi survives, maybe even got Willow’s eyes again, but Willow comes back. Willow fireman’s carries but Emi slips fere to the DRAGON SLEEPER! Emi laughs, to TWISTING DDT! Willow staggers to a corner, Emi grins and runs in, BODY CHECK in the corner! Emi goes up top to TWISTING VADER! Cover, TWO!! Willow survives and Emi is frustrated. Emi reels Willow in, hooks the arms, but Willow fights again!
Willow Alabama Lifts but Emi sunset flips! Willow rolls through to BASEMENT CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO!! Emi survives but Willow just runs in, only for Emi to sidestep and roll-up! TWO, but Emi steps over. Willow powers out of La Magistrol, and DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Willow fires up, DOUBLE LARIATS collide again! Willow fires up again, swings, but Emi gets around to CHOP LARIAT!! Both women are down and the fans fire back up! The ref checks and both women are still in this. Emi drags Willow up, fans rally, but Emi underhooks the arms. BUTTERFLY FACEBUSTER!! Emi fires up, she’s not done here!
Fans are thunderous as Emi waits on Willow to rise. Emi then CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS again! MACHINE GUN CHOPS, but Willow shoves her away. Emi CHOP LARIATS, then whips corner to corner. Willow comes back to POUNCE Emi into the corner! Fans fire up as Willow runs to CANNONBALL! And then she drags Emi out to high stack, TWO!! Emi is still in this and fans fire up! But the straps come down and Willow fires up! Fans fire up with her, she reels Emi in to gut wrench, but Emi fights the lift! Emi slips free to SLAP! SLAP! And SLAP! Emi runs, but Willow CLOBBERS her!
Gut wrench, and BABE WITH THE POWER BOMB!! Cover, Willow wins!
Winner: Willow Nightingale, by pinfall (still NJPW Strong Women’s Champion)
Now that’s a first defense for the history books! How much better will Willow make this inaugural reign if this is just the beginning?
BREAKING NEWS for Dynamite!
After their encounter with Dralistico and Preston Vance last Wednesday, #JungleHook reunites for a TEXAS TORNADO TAG MATCH! Will Jack Perry & The FTW Champion tear apart La Faccion Ingobernable?
BIG news for ROH!
On Friday, July 21st in Trenton, New Jersey, ROH returns to PPV with Death Before Dishonor! Tickets go on sale next Friday, June 9th!
Mark Henry welcomes us back to Rampage.
“Tonight, two technical masters go face to face when Lee Moriarty takes on Shibata for the ROH Pure Championship.” Nigel McGuiness says a competitor like Shibata can pick you apart, one body part by another. But Tony Schiavone and Taz say not enough is said about just how talented Moriarty is for such a young wrestler. It looks like there’s been enough talk. It’s TIME for the main event!
ROH Pure Championship: Katsuyori Shibata VS Lee Moriarty!
The Wrestler defended this title just last night on ROH against his student, Alex “The Android” Coughlin. But now he faces #TAIGASTYLE, who has come close to snatching this title for his own not too long ago. Will tonight be Moriarty’s night? Or will Shibata make it through this Pure Wrestling Double Header?
The introductions are made, our judges are BJ Whitmer, Christopher Daniels & Jerry Lynn, and the belt is raised as we see who is truly THE Wrestler!
The bell rings and the clock is ticking on this 60 minute time limit. The two feel things out, Moriarty shoots in but Shibata holds him off with a sprawl. They clinch on the mat, Shibata slips to a waistlock and then a chinlock. Moriarty slips free but Shibata pushes him to a cover, ONE! Shibata wraps Moriarty up with his own arm and then goes for the armbar! Moriarty clasps hands but ends up in a TRIANGLE! Moriarty falls onto the ROPEBREAK, that is his first of three. Shibata even lets Moriarty know it as they reset. They knuckle lock, go shoulder to shoulder, clinch, and Moriarty tries for a leg.
Shibata powers Moriarty down, gets around to a waistlock, and they stand up. Moriarty pries the hold, fans cheer this technical exchange, but then Moriarty elbows free! Moriarty stomps Shibata into a corner, the ref counts, but Moriarty digs his boot in. Fans boo, but Shibata powers up to back Moriarty down! Shibata throws the foot down but Shibata ROCKS him! Moriarty runs to dropkick the legs out! Fans boo while Moriarty grits his teeth, and then the fans rally up for Shibata as Rampage goes picture in picture.
Moriarty mocks the applause as he stands over Shibata. Moriarty then says they can stop all that, and he grabs a leg to DDT the foot! Moriarty kips up, air guitars, and he ties up Shibata’s legs into a unique crisscross toehold. Then he sits with it for a modified stump puller! Shibata’s shoulders are down, Moriarty is practically stealing Darby Allin’s Last Supper! TWO as Shibata kicks out and Moriarty argues the count. Moriarty drags Shibata around, stomps a leg, then stomps it more and more before another DDT to the foot! Moriarty mocks the clapping from the fans, and then he drags Shibata around for a spinning toehold!
Shibata endures as Moriarty ties up the legs into another cross toehold. Moriarty puts Shibata into an Indian Deathlock, then he knuckle locks Shibata for a cover. TWO as Shibata gets an arm up! Moriarty pushes the arm back down, TWO as Shibata gets the other arm up! Moriarty pushes that arm down, TWO as Shibata gets both arms up! Moriarty CHOPS Shibata, pushes on the legs, then lets Shibata go. Moriarty gets a leg, hooks it, and ties Shibata up in another cross toehold, only for Shibata to trip him! Shibata gets Moriarty’s legs, steps through, but Moriarty fights the figure four! Shibata powers through to sync it in!
Moriarty endures, reaches out, but his shoulders are down. TWO as Moriarty sits up, Shibata keeps on the pressure, and Moriarty falls back onto his shoulders. TWO as he sits up again! Shibata has the extended leg caught in a heel hook behind his back! Moriarty falls back again, shoulders are down, TWO as he sits back up! Moriarty endures, reaches out, claws at the hold, and he pries it open. Shibata works to keep it on tight, Moriarty is down again, TWO! Moriarty sits up, Shibata thrashes around, and Rampage returns to single picture. Fans rally, Moriarty drags Shibata along as he reaches back, but Shibata drags him from the ropes!
Moriarty scrambles and goes to the opposite side, ROPEBREAK! That’s his second, he has one left, and we’ve only just past six minutes! Shibata stomps Moriarty’s bad leg, has him in a corner, and he fires off forearms! The ref counts, Shibata fires again and again, but lets off at 4. Shibata runs corner to corner but Moriarty follows to KNEE him in the corner! And then HALF HATCH BRIDGE! TWO as Shibata fights out of the “pancake.” Moriarty HAMMERS away on the back of Shibata’s head! Fans rally, Moriarty suplexes, but Shibata blocks! Shibata powers out but Moriarty kicks low!
Moriarty runs but into a kitchen sink knee! Fans rally, Shibata stomps his legs into working, and he storms up on Moriarty. Shibata drags Moriarty up to whip him to a corner and BOOT! And he fires off more forearms! The ref counts, Shibata runs corner to corner, HYDRAULIC DROPKICK! Fans fire up for that Shibata signature and he drags Moriarty up. HALF HATCH! Cover, TWO! Moriarty is still in this but Shibata clamps right on with a chinlock! Moriarty fights to the ROPEBREAK, but that’s his last! Shibata waistlocks. Moriarty switches to roll up, TWO! But Moriarty rolls with to get the BORDER CITY STRETCH!!
Shibata endures, Moriarty pulls him back, but fans rally up. Shibata rolls things to a cover, TWO! Moriarty ROCKS Shibata, winds up, but Shibata ROCKS Moriarty! And then SLEEPER!! Shibata sits Moriarty down, runs, PENALTY KICK!! Cover, Shibata wins!!
Winner: Katsuyori Shibata, by pinfall (still ROH Pure Champion)
Just past nine minutes and Shibata finishes things off, but wait! Daniel Garcia is here! The Dragonslayer is a former ROH Pure Champion, and he’s walking out right to the ring! Garcia steps in, he swaggers up to Shibata, and it is clear this is what’s next for Shibata. Shibata raises the belt to signal his accepting the challenge, will The Wrestler put down this sports… enner-tay-ner?
My Thoughts:
A great Rampage here, though I’m surprised this wasn’t just a Battle of the Belts special. Excalibur said it himself on commentary in the main event, but it was great to start off with the epitome of lucha libre and finish on Strong Style technical wrestling. The AAA Mega Championship was a great opener, and was definitely another instance where I’m grateful we can pause things because they were going fast and furious. Or maybe at Flash speeds, since that’s a Warner Brothers movie they could plug. But as I figured going into this, all the champions retained, since none of these were AEW titles (directly, since ROH is a subsidiary of AEW now).
The NJPW World Television Championship continues to be a great title to watch because of the 15 minute time limit speeding things up. Likewise, ZSJ is always a great wrestler to watch, but so hard to write for cuz he has the biggest collection of named signature moves/holds of any wrestler I’ve seen. I had to double check what he was using to make Action tap, because I keep thinking things are Clarky Cat when they’re not Clarky Cat. ZSJ is setting a very high bar for this title, maybe he retains against Cobb at Dominion or maybe he loses, but it’s going to be hard for the second-ever NJPW World TV Champion to match what ZSJ has done.
Great first title defense for Willow and this title, she and Emi put on a great match. I wonder when Willow has her first defense on NJPW Strong, and who she’ll be facing. And we got a great Pure Championship match to finish, and I’m surprised it was so quick, even compared to the NJPW World TV Championship match. But great win for Shibata, I like that Garcia is stepping up, and that’s going to be an awesome match. I don’t know if they’re going to wait until Death Before Dishonor in July for that match, but knowing AEW and ROH, they can find a way to stretch things out. Especially with Garcia also busy being part of JAS and doing JAS things.
My Score: 8.7/10
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SmackDown celebrates The Tribal Chief!
Roman Reigns celebrates 1000 DAYS as WWE Universal Champion, but what does it matter after Jimmy Uso betrayed him at Night of Champions?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Six Man Tag: The Brawling Brutes VS Austin Theory & Pretty Deadly; Theory & Pretty Deadly win.
- The Good Brothers w/ The OC VS Hit Row w/ B-Fab; The Good Brothers win.
- Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier: Zelina Vega VS Lacey Evans; Vega wins and advances to MITB.
- Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier: LA Knight VS Montez Ford; Knight wins and advances to MITB.
PLAY BY PLAY
Paul Heyman speaks.
“Roman Reigns, your Undisputed WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion, stands at the apex of sports entertainment. Nearly three years ago, Your Tribal Chief reclaimed his Universal Championship. And as time passed, Roman’s title reign has surpassed legends, icons, hall of famers. On the Grandest Stage of Them All, the Head of the Table smashed and stacked his competition. Then humbled a Hall of Famer, and sent a 16-time world champion into the Ocean of Obscurity. Every contender, unable to withstand Roman’s sheer dominance and forced to…” ACKNOWLEDGE him.
“Challenger after challenger, crumble at his feet. And at his second Showcase of the Immortals as your reigning champion, Roman Reigns conquered The Beast, unifying the WWE and Universal titles on his 581st day as the champion in WWE. His power persisted. His Bloodline strengthened. His legacy flourished. Greatness on a different level. And on his 945th day, the greatest champion of any era made history by retaining his championship for the third straight WrestleMania. And now, it’s time to acknowledge the longest reign in over 35 years, over 1000 days. Roman. Reigns…!”
Austin Theory is in the ring.
The Now may not have reached even half of what Roman has achieved, but he is the United States Champion. He welcomes us to Austin Theory Live but the fans boo. Theory says they don’t need to have an attitude. Tonight is a very special night. “Tonight is the celebration of your Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns’ historical title reign. But you know what’s even better than that? If you took Roman’s title reign, and you combined it with the greatest United States Champion of all time… wait for it… Austin Theory’s reign, and you’d have… What is that? A total of 1,209 days! That is impressive. And not only that, it is very inspiring.
“It is almost as inspiring as being the guy who beat John Cena at WrestleMania.” Fans boo but Theory says we should face it. Let’s not be idiots! We all know Theory will have his 1000th day celebration for his title, and a 2000th, and maybe even a 3000th. Probably a 4000th. But if they just keep giving him guys like Sheamus, he’ll be the US Champion forever! “Guys, you really can’t boo me because I’m 25 and I’m the greatest to ever do this. And when you’re this great, everybody wants to gravitate towards you, they wanna be a part of it.” That brings Theory to the guys he wants to bring out.
These two guys did what was right! Theory presents none other than Pretty Deadly! Kit Wilson & Elton Prince make their entrance, and their theme song has a new remix, and they join Theory in the ring. They get mics, and Kit tells Theory, “We came here to tell you, that it was a pleasure destroying those ugly gremlins, the Brawling Brutes.” Elton says that unlike Sheamus, Theory is a champion the people deserve. They wanna show Theory their appreciation for such a good champion, in a way that only they can! “YES BOY~!” And they point to him! Feels good, right? But wait, here come the Brawling Brutes!
Fans fire up as Sheamus leads Ridge Holland & Pete Dunne out to the ring, ready for Fight Night! The ref hurries in to keep the peace, but will Theory & Pretty Deadly be leaving in pieces?
Six Man Tag: The Brawling Brutes VS Austin Theory & Pretty Deadly!
The trios sort out, Ridge starts against Elton. Elton headlocks, Ridge powers out and he CLOBBERS Elton! Fans fire up as Ridge UPPERCUTS Elton, then HEADBUTTS him to a corner. Ridge adds a clothesline, then bumps Elton off the buckle, KICKS him in the back and CLOBBERS him again! Ridge drags Elton up, tags in “Butch,” and they coordinate, suplex dropkick combo! Dunne drags Elton up, wrenches, but Elton throws body shots. Elton RAMS Dunne into the corner, tags in Kit, and Kit runs in to UPPERCUT! Dunne clutches his jaw while fans boo. Kit drops elbows, rains down hands, then covers, TWO!
Kit sits Dunne into a chinlock. Dunne endures, fans rally for Sheamus, and Dunne fights up. Dunne powers out, drops then hurdles to then drop and CLOBBER Kit! Fans fire up, Dunne stands on Kit’s hands, then STOMPS them! Kit ducks the buzzsaw and scrambles away. Tag to Theory, fans boo, and Theory tells Dunne he wants Sheamus! Fans fire up because they want that, too! Dunne tags Sheamus in and the Mohegan Sun Arena are fired up! These two circle, but then Theory bails out, and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Elton has Dunne down with a top wristlock. Fans rally, Dunne endures and he fights up to his feet. But Elton throws him down by his hair! The ref reprimands and fans boo but Elton grabs at Dunne. Dunne grabs Elton’s fingers! Dunne bends the fingers, Elton screams, but Elton CLUBS Dunne down! Tag to Theory and he runs to BLAST Ridge! Theory taunts Sheamus, stomps Dunne, then brings Dunne up to CLUB him down. Fans rally for Dunne but Theory flexes on him. Theory drags Dunne over, tags in Kit, but Dunne kicks at Theory. Kit stomps Dunne, stands him up and UPPERCUTS him down!
Tag to Elton and Theory CHOKES Dunne behind the ref’s back! Pretty Deadly stomp while the ref is busy with Sheamus. Elton drags Dunne up but Dunne CHOPS! And CHOPS! And CHOPS again! Elton ROCKS Dunne, then runs in, but into a BOOT! Dunne goes up, leaps, FLYING DDT! Fans fire up while both men are down! Dunne and Elton crawl, hot tags to Theory and Sheamus! The Fella rallies on Theory! And clotheslines in the corner! Whip corner to corner for another clothesline! Scoop and POWERSLAM! Fans fire up as Sheamus ROCKS Pretty Deadly and has them both on the ropes!
But Theory rolls Sheamus up! TWO!! Sheamus gets Theory with an IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! Then an IRISH CURSE for Kit! And then an IRISH CURSE for Elton! Fans fire up and the Brutes return. Everyone fireman’s carries someone, for a TRIPLE WHITE NOISE! Fans are thunderous and Sheamus has Theory all alone! BROGUE!!! Cover, but Pretty Deadly drag Theory out! Sheamus hurries up top!? Ridge BLASTS Pretty Deadly, Sheamus steadies himself, and he FLYING LARIATS Pretty Deadly back down! Dunne goes up, everyone gathers, ASAI MOONSAULT onto Theory & Pretty Deadly!
Fans are thunderous as the Brutes prove they can fly! Sheamus commends Butch for topping things off, and SmackDown goes to break.
Elton stomps Dunne. Elton brings Dunn up but Dunne gets around to GERMAN SUPLEX! Kit runs in but into an ENZIGURI! ENZIGURI for Theory! GAMANGIRI for Kit in a corner! GAMANGIRI for Elton in a corner! Tag to Ridge and SPLASHES Elton! Then Ridge brings Elton up, Dunne joins in, BACK SUPLEX BOMB COMBO! Sheamus tags in and goes up for a KING KONG KNEE DROP! Cover, TWO!! Elton survives but Sheamus keeps his cool. Sheamus drags Elton up, reels him in, Canadian rack but Elton fights free of the crucifix! Elton BOOTS Sheamus, tags Kit, then gives Kit the boost, CRY MARTINI!
Theory tags in, drags Sheamus up to ROCK him and torture rack him! TOWER HACKER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Theory is furious and he rains down fists! Fans boo while Theory seethes and looms over Sheamus. Theory talks trash, brings Sheamus up, but Sheamus blocks a body shot to LARIAT point blank! Elton gets in but Ridge gives him an OVERHEAD Belly2Belly! Kit DROPKICKS Ridge but Dunne ENZIGURIS Kit! Dunne runs at Theory but Theory shovels him up and out! Theory somersaults, into a KNEE!! Cover, TWO!! Theory survives and Sheamus is too tired to be upset. Both men crawl and fans rally up.
Sheamus and Theory reach out, hot tags to Elton and Ridge! Kit tags in, but The Fridge picks Elton up! Kit saves Elton, but then Ridge picks them both up! DOUBLE back drop! Fans fire up as Ridge kicks Kit to the apron. Sheamus has Theory, and Dunne has Elton! Fans fire up for the TRIPLE BEATS OF THE BODHRAIN!! The Brutes all go to 10, though Dunne gets a little extra. Ridge then scoops for NORTHERN GRIT! Cover, but Theory breaks it! Dunne swings on Theory but into A-TOWN DOWN! Sheamus clotheslines Theory out! Sheamus pursues Theory, but Theory POSTS Sheamus!
Kit and Elton coordinate, they pull a sneaky move by hiding Elton under the apron skirt. The matching outfits make Ridge think that’s still Kit! Ridge drags Elton in, and surprise! Kit CHOP BLOCKS Ridge! Kit tags Elton, they get Ridge up for SPILT MILK!! And tag to Theory so he can cover, Theory & Pretty Deadly win!
Winners: Austin Theory & Pretty Deadly, by pinfall
The three of them hurry away before Dunne returns, having pulled another fast one. Will Kit & Elton be heading towards the tag titles? Will anyone be able to take the US Championship from Theory?
Paul Heyman is backstage.
The Wise Man is holding onto both the black WWE Championship and blue Universal Championship belts for the Tribal Chief as he walks up to the private suite. Heyman walks inside, is he going to discuss the celebration plans with Roman Reigns during the break?
SmackDown returns, and Heyman’s talking with Solo Sikoa. The magnitude that has never been accomplished before in the WWE. This needs to be special for the Tribal Chief, especially given what happened at Night of Champions. Heyman wants this to be special for Roman Reigns. And he knows Solo feels the same way. Heyman will go talk with Adam Pearce to make sure that Solo’s brothers, The Usos, are nowhere to be found tonight so that this is the night that we acknowledge Roman… Reigns! Heyman smiles and heads out, how does Solo really feel about what Jimmy did to Roman?
The OC talk backstage.
The Good Brothers are worried but Mia Yim says it’s fine, tonight is his birthday. AJ Styles walks in and they say happy birthday! Yes, it IS his birthday! And he apologizes for losing at Night of Champions, he ruined their night. No, no, it is not his fault. But you take the L, keep it moving. The OC has their back. But did anyone else see the “diss” track by Hit Row? Yeah, but Styles would rather see the Good Brothers drop Hit Row. Too Sweet, baby! And that match is happening next! Will Top Dolla & Ashante THEE Adonis think twice before opening their mouths next time?
The Good Brothers w/ The OC VS Hit Row w/ B-Fab!
SmackDown returns as Hit Row makes their entrance. The teams sort out, but Adonis ambushes Karl Anderson! Fans boo and the ref counts while Adonis stomps away, but then he lets off at 4. Adonis whips to CLOBBER Anderson, then he taunts Luke Gallows. Anderson goes to a corner, Adonis drags him out and tags Dolla. Hit Row whip Anderson to a corner, then Dolla whips Adonis in to RAM Anderson! Dolla talks trash on The Machine Gun, then reels him in for an ELBOW! Dolla talks more trash, drags Anderson to the ropes, and he CHOPKES him! The ref counts, Dolla lets off and tags Adonis.
Adonis runs to STRADDLE ATTACK! Adonis sits on Anderson while smoothing his hair, but lets off as the ref counts. The ref argues with Adonis and B-Fab sucker punches Anderson! Michin storms up and B-Fab backs off. Adonis covers, TWO, but he clamps onto a chinlock. The ref has Michin and B-Fab back off, and fans rally as Anderson fights up. Anderson throws body shots but Adonis CLUBS him! Adonis whips, Anderson reverses, SPINEBUSTER! Fans fire up while both men are down. Fans rally, Anderson hot tags Gallows! Doc BOOTS Adonis, BOOTS Dolla, then DECKS Adonis!
Gallows ROUNDHOUSES Adonis to a corner, runs in and back elbows! Then he keeps moving, FLYING UPPERCUT on Adonis! Fans fire up as Gallows scoops to AK 47! Tag to Anderson, the Good Brothers get Adonis up, MAGIC KILLER!! Cover, Good Brothers win!
Winners: The Good Brothers, by pinfall
But Dolla BOOTS Anderson! And CLOBBERS Gallows! But Styles springboards in, PHENOMENAL FOREARM!! Fans fire up as the birthday boy gets him some, and The Hit Row? They don’t want none! Will The OC be too sweet all the way to some gold?
Adam Pearce is on the phone.
Yes, he is very excited, this is perhaps one of the biggest nights in SmackDown history. He excuses himself and ends the call as he sees Heyman walking in. Pearce tells Heyman right now that the Usos’ travel was canceled, they were told they weren’t needed tonight. And as requested, should The Usos want to show up, security has been doubled. The Usos are NOT getting inside the building. Heyman smiles and puts a call into Roman Reigns. Will nothing go wrong during the 1000 Day Acknowledgment?
BREAKING NEWS for Raw!
Seth Rollins put out the open challenge for his NEW World Heavyweight Championships on social media and it was quickly accepted by Damian Priest! Will the Judgment Day add more gold when the Punisher brings down The Visionary?
SmackDown presents an all new Grayson Waller Effect.
The 21st Century Success Story, “The Dynamite from Down Under, the Moment Maker, the Aussie Icon,” gets the big introduction once again as he’s already in the ring. And he says, “What a week it has been here in the WWE, and we’re gonna keep it rolling with the most honest talk show in WWE history.” Waller brings us the biggest and the best, and he’s done it again tonight. So please welcome the NEW Raw Women’s Champion, ASUKA~! The fans do like that as the Empress of Tomorrow walks out with the belt on her shoulder. She joins Waller in the ring and at the desk as he welcomes her to the show.
Waller says, “Congratulations, what an incredible performance against Bianca at Night of Champions. In fact, let’s see exactly how you got it done.” Waller and Asuka look to the tron as we all see a Progressive Match Flo recap video of that match. Asuka used blue mist fingers to finish Bianca, and Waller says wow. Asuka laughs and smiles, and in Japanese, she says “I told you saw! I’m the Raw Women’s Champion!” Waller says he could not have put it better himself! But he can’t help but notice the briefcases above the ring. There’s no shortage of people who think they’re ready for Asuka. They’re gonna climb the ladder, win the briefcase to be Miss MITB, and maybe cash in on her?
Waller says Asuka’s gotta keep her head on a swivel. Nevermind that Bianca’s gonna come looking for a rematch. Asuka is amused there. She reenacts how she spat mist on her finger, got Bianca in the eyes and made Bianca cry. Waller is amused, too! He says that was so true. And so smart! He can’t imagine the pain and suffering Bianca went through. Asuka’s even drooling some blue mist right now. Waller looks a bit worried, but also maybe excited. But then IYO SKY shows up! She tells Asuka in Japanese that she’s nothing special for what she did. And Iyo won’t even need MITB to take that title from! But she’s still gonna win it, and then Iyo will be the new champion!
Asuka laughs, and tells Iyo she’s a child, the way she’s storming up in here. Iyo tells Asuka to shut up, dammit! Asuka calls Iyo an idiot, Iyo calls Asuka a scumbag, and they go back and forth like that. Waller has them stop, this is HIS show, he did not approve a second guest! But wait, here comes BAYLEY! The Role Model says Iyo said that after both Iyo and Bayley qualify for the MITB, one of them is winning the MITB briefcase. Though it is every woman for themselves, and Bayley’s won it before, so either way, DMG CTRL will win the title- Wait! Here comes Shotzi!
Fans fire up as the Wild Child says, “Awww, Bayley! There is NOTHING that I would love more than to crush your dreams with the help of some cold, hard steel! Because, if there is anyone made for the pure chaos of the Money in the Bank Ladder match, it’s me!” Wait, here comes Lacey Evans! The Model Soldier is embodying Sergeant Slaughter and she tells Shotzi to shut up and salute her! Fans boo but Lacey says none of these nasty things are taking the briefcase anywhere, it’s coming home with her. But first, she’ll take her Cobra Clutch, wrap it around that “shrimp,” Zelina Vega, and-
Wait! Here comes Zelina! Fans fire up as La Muneca says there is only one problem with everyone’s plans. They are all underestimating Zelina. And y’know who else did that? Rhea Ripley at Backlash. Because Zelina was this close to becoming champion! So “Shrimp?” Keep that energy, Lacey. Because to be honest, even if Lacey got her hair done, her nails done and traded in those “piss soaked boots” for red bottoms, you still wouldn’t be half the woman Zelina is. So please, underestimate her. Everyone do that. Because it will be that much sweeter when she wins. Because that is how she is going to become Miss MITB!
Bayley laughs and says they’re all idiots. Waller says this is the best day of his life. Bayley asks him what kind of show he’s running here, and he’s hoping for more ladies to show up. Asuka slips away to say, “Hey hey hey hey! NO ONE is ready for Asuka!!” But then Bianca storms up to ROCK Asuka with a forearm! They brawl on the stage and fans fire up! Referees rush out to stop that scrap, only for Bianca to break lose and hit Asuka again! The refs and even some producers get in to separate them again, but fans wanna “Let Them Fight!” Will the angriEST Bianca be coming after the Empress?
Cameron Grimes talks with Adam Pearce backstage.
They watch a replay of Baron Corbin ruining Carmelo Hayes’ moment just last Tuesday on NXT, and Grimes said that’s exactly what Corbin did to him last week. Is Corbin even here? No, and with his free agency status, the next time we see him will be next Tuesday on NXT. Grimes says Melo will handle that. But the next time Corbin shows his face on SmackDown, Grimes will handle that. Pearce nods, will the Carolina Caveman crush Baron Corbin?
Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier: Zelina Vega VS Lacey Evans!
Since everyone was already at ringside, this match is happening now! And Vega is already clutching her jaw, it seems the Model Soldier got a cheap shot in while everyone was watching Asuka and Bianca. Will Vega still be able to humble Lacey for underestimating her? Or will another Woman’s Right simply take Vega out?
The bell rings and Lacey stomps Vega into the corner! The ref counts, fans boo, but Lacey lets off at 4. Lacey stands on Vega’s hair and salutes, then lets off to SWINGING BRONCO BUSTER! Lacey pushes Vega around, covers, TWO! Lacey sits Vega up, and clamps on the COBRA CLUTCH! And she SWINGS Vega around! Fans rally for Vega but Lacey TOSSES her away! Lacey dusts off her hands, runs in, but Vega goes up and over and rolls Lacey, Schoolgirl Kick! Cover, TWO! Vega whips, Lacey reverses but Vega KICKS her! Only for Lacey to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Lacey dribbles Vega off the mat, then smirks as fans boo.
Lacey salutes but fans boo, and Vega hits low. Lacey BOOTS Vega, drags her from ropes and stands on her for a cocky cover. The ref says it’s on the throat! Lacey steps off to argue with him, and then Lacey clamps onto Vega with a chinlock. Fans rally but Lacey throws knees into Vega’s side! Vega still endures, fans rally up, and Vega kicks from below! Lacey drags Vega up but Vega RAMS her into a corner! And again! Vega smacks Lacey off buckles, headlocks and springboards for a headlock takeover! Lacey runs in but into the tilt-o-whirl and CODE RED!! Cover, VEGA WINS!
Winner: Zelina Vega, by pinfall (advances to MITB)
What did she just say about underestimating her? Because there’s the proof! Lacey toyed with Zelina but got played, will Zelina soon be La Muneca en el Banco?
The LWO celebrates backstage.
They are so proud of Vega! Latinos around the world are going to gather in celebration! And next week, when Escobar wins his qualifier and win the MITB contract, oh he can see it now. She can see it, too. Rey Mysterio can see it, too! It is only a matter of time before the entire locker room refers to them as Santos y Zelina, Mr. and Mrs. Money in the Bank! Will the LWO soon take over London?
Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier: LA Knight VS Montez Ford!
The Mega Star told the Street Profits that if they want the smoke, he’ll be the one to burn ’em! Is that not an insult but just a fact of life? Or will #KingTez be the one saying “YEAH!” on the way to London?
The bell rings and the two circle. Fans rally up, the two tie up, and Knight wrenches to a hammerlock, and he slaps Ford around. Fans rally for “L A KNIGHT! L A KNIGHT!” The two circle, tie up, and Ford headlocks. Knight powers out the back to hammerlock, but Ford switches it onto him. Knight switches back, Ford switches again, Knight switches again. They keep going, Knight gest the ROPEBREAK, but Ford slaps him around now. Fans are a bit torn but Knight gets heated. Knight shoves, Ford shoves, repeat! Fans are on Knight’s side as the two tie up again but Ford headlocks. Knight powers out but Ford runs him over!
Ford actually seems to enjoy upsetting the Knight fans, and things speed up. Knight hurdles, but Ford whips him away to keep things moving. Ford hurdles, Knight hurdles, but Ford DROPKICKS! Fans are salty as Ford clotheslines Knight in the corner. And then in another corner! Ford whips Knight into the corner, runs in but Knight puts Ford on the apron. Ford ROCKS Knight back! But Knight BLASTS Ford! Fans cheer Knight while Ford crawls and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and both men collide! Fans rally up while both men are down, and then Knight stands. Knight throws haymakers but Ford gives them back! They go back and forth, “YEAH!” “BOO!” “YEAH!” “BOO!” “YEAH!” “BOO!” Ford gets the edge, whips, but Knight reverses, only for Ford to LARIAT! Ford rallies on Knight, ducks ‘n’ dodges to LARIAT again! Knight gets up, Ford hits a BIG back suplex! Ford kips up, fans fire up, and Ford flexes to MOONSAULT, but Knight moves! Ford lands on his feet, swings but misses, and Knight torture racks! SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!
Fans rally up, Knight stalks Ford and fans duel. Knight stands Ford up but Ford elbows him! Ford runs in but into an elbow! Ford falls over, Knight tries a springboard, LIONSAULT FLOPS as Ford moves! Ford ENZIGURIS Knight, then fires up to clinch and ROCK BOTTOM! Cover, TWO!! Knight survives and Ford is seething. Fans fire up as Ford drags Knight up. Ford whips, Knight KICKS back! Ford doges the lariat, both men run, DOUBLE LARIATS take them down! Fans fire up again while the ref checks both men. Knight and Ford crawl to each other, and Knight throws a haymaker. Ford gives it back!
Fans rally as the hands go back and forth, “YEAH!” “BOO!” Ford CHOPS, then DECKS Knight! Knight stands at the ropes, Ford runs in but is put back on the apron. Ford GAMANGIRIS Knight then goes up a corner! But Knight ROCKS Ford first! Knight climbs, Ford throws body shots then shoves Knight away. Knight returns and springs right up! But Ford shoves him back down! Fans fire up as Ford comes in, FROM THE- NO, Knight moves! Knight kicks low, BF- NO, Ford O’Conner Rolls, TWO! Knight O’Conner Rolls with ropes!! Knight wins!!
Winner: LA Knight, by pinfall (advances to MITB)
The Mega Star snatches that one away from Ford, but the fans still love it! Knight then brings a ladder out and sets it up under the briefcases. Knight climbs, says this is what we’ll see, because whose game is it? Will this really be what happens when LA arrives in the UK?
Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn speak.
“Sanguis rubeus luna et exponentia exitio.” That phrase repeats as we travel through a snow covered forest. Translation: “The perfect moon will spell your doom.” The Unholy Union is here, what will they do to the landscape of SmackDown?
SmackDown sets the rest of the qualifiers!
For the Men’s MITB, Baron Corbin returns from NXT to take on “Butch” Pete Dunne, and Mustafa Ali returns from NXT to take on Santos Escobar! And then, as announced during the Grayson Waller Effect, DMG CTRL is in the mix as Bayley takes on Mia Yim and Iyo Sky takes on Shotzi! Will DMG CTRL look to take control of that briefcase one way or another?
Triple H is here!
Fans fire up for The Game as he heads to the ring! It seems even he is here to celebrate Roman Reigns’ 1000+ days as Universal Champion! What will HHH have to add to the occasion? We find out, after the break.
SmackDown returns and HHH is in the ring with a pedestal and a familiar looking cloth. HHH has the mic to say, “On rare occasions, an athlete comes along that is so dominant that they change the entire face of their chosen sport. And when it happens, they will be talked about for generations to come. In boxing, it was the Great One, Muhammad Ali. In basketball, Michael Jordan. In the WWE, right now, we have the privilege of witnessing that greatness live. Believe me, you will talk about this for generations, so please help me welcome a man who has passed 1000 days as champion. Please help me welcome a man that you will tell your children and your grandchildren about.
“Please help me welcome the Tribal Chief, the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, Roman Reigns.” The Head of the Table makes his entrance with fans torn between boos and throwing up the ones. Roman has Solo and Heyman with him, the brand new “1000 Days” branded jacket and shirt on as he holds up the belts for the pyro. The Bloodline, if this group even still counts as that, continues on into the ring. Roman then shakes HHH’s hand and Heyman fetches a mic. Heyman also shakes HHH’s hand, and then HHH tells Roman, “On behalf of the WWE, and on behalf of the entire WWE Universe, I would like to congratulate you on surpassing 1000 days as champion.”
That is something that hasn’t been accomplished in the WWE in almost forty years! Truly an epic accomplishment. So to congratulate Roman and celebrate this historic achievement, it is HHH’s honor to present him with a brand new Undisputed WWE Universal Championship belt. HHH takes the cover off to reveal the same home base design, but with a GOLDEN face plate! Heyman removes the belt Roman is wearing on his waist so that he can hold up the new belt, for more pyro! HHH then helps Roman put that belt on, then Heyman hands Roman the mic. Roman smiles while fans are torn between cheers and jeers.
Roman says, “Pennsyl- No, no, no. I mean, c’mon! That’s not good enough anymore. The entire universe…! ACKNOWLEDGE ME!!” Wait, the USOS are here?!? How?! Heyman heard from Pearce that this wasn’t supposed to happen! But Jimmy & Jey do walk out and Roman glares at Heyman. Heyman defends he was assured this wouldn’t happen, but it is! And we see what the Usos are going to do, after the break.
SmackDown returns and the Usos are now in the ring with Roman, Solo & Heyman. And Jimmy’s staring Roman down. He even glances at the brand new Universal Championship blet. Jimmy has the mic, but Roman speaks first, telling Jey to kick Jimmy in the face! Fans boo but Roman says it again, kick Jimmy in the face. He didn’t stutter, do it now! That’s what Jimmy did to Roman. Jimmy took Roman’s tag team titles away from him, so Jey has to fix this. Jey has to kick his brother in the face! Fans boo more, and Jey just paces. Roman is not happy about that, and he tells Jey this is the last time: KICK HIM IN THE FACE AND FIX THIS RIGHT NOW!
Jimmy speaks up to that the only one who needs fixing is ROMAN. Fans cheer that! Roman scowls but Jimmy says Jey can’t fix this. Jimmy kicked Roman in the face, “The Kick Heard Worldwide.” And Jimmy did what he did in Saudi not to be the Tribal Chief, not to lead the Bloodline, but because Jimmy was being a brother. Brothers treat each other with love and respect, and as of lately, you ain’t been such a good brother, Roman. What kind of brother manipulates, betrays and hurts his own family? What kind of brother does that, Uce? Roman has gone crazy! CRAZY! This right here is Jimmy’s brother! It is embedded in Jimmy to protect Jey.
In fact, SOLO is Jimmy’s brother! He’ll protect Solo, and he’s gonna tell Solo right now, that after Roman’s done using you, he’s gonna abuse you, betray you, kick you to the side, and put you in the dirt! Jimmy IS Solo’s brother, that’s why he’s saying this. Fans cheer that, too! Roman tries to laugh it off but Jimmy tells Solo to listen to him. Fans rally for the “USOS! USOS!” and Roman says that’s because of ROMAN! Roman is the Tribal Chief! You see him? Tribal Chief. This here is an imposter! Jimmy talking like he’s the leader, like Solo don’t have a voice. Let’s hear it from Solo who Solo is loyal to!
Roman hands the mic to Solo and fans boo. Solo looks at the mic, thinks about it, and fans chant for “SOLO! SOLO!” Solo says, “I acknowledge you, My Tribal Chief.” Fans boo and Roman smiles. But then Solo says, “But these two right here… They’re my brothers.” UH OH~! Roman is shocked and the Usos smile! Solo hands the mic back, to stand with his brothers!! Roman can’t believe what he’s seeing! Jimmy says hey, hey, so what’s it gonna be, Uce? Does Roman wanna run this thing together with respect? Or just end up on the Island of Relevancy all by himself? Roman tells Jimmy to shut up, but Jimmy pie faces him!!
Heyman is shocked and cowering in the corner! Fans fire up as Jey and Solo are both tense. Roman registers what just happened, then gets up in Jimmy’s face. Jey stops them both, and he wants to keep the peace. It’s not going like this. Jey needs them both, they cannot start fighting! They’re better than that, okay? Jey gets Jimmy to understand, and Jimmy cools off. Stronger together, Uce. But see, Jey is Jimmy’s brother, and Solo is Jimmy’s brother. But so is Roman. Roman’s always been family. So be a brother, have respect, and run this place like they’ve been doing! But TOGETHER! Bloodline, right? Family, right? They are still the ones, right?
Roman wipes sweat from his brow and takes a breath. Fans want Roman to accept what the Usos are saying, but he seems unsure what to do. Roman and Jimmy HUG!! Fans cheer, and Jey is relieved. Roman then says, “No.” WHAT?! Heyman is shocked all over again! Roman lets go and Jey is upset again! How could Roman say that?! And then Solo SAMOAN SPIKES JIMMY!?!? Jey is even more devastated!! Roman takes his leave, Heyman and Solo following behind. Is the Tribal Chief’s iron grip that powerful? Heyman then asks Roman, “What about Jey?” Roman says Jey will do what he always does and fall in line. Just give it time.
Fans boo as Roman refuses to share love and respect with his family. What will it take for The Usos to change that?
My Thoughts:
An awesome episode to follow Night of Champions with! Granted, a lot of that comes from the Bloodline story, which once again continues to be the top story. And with this story already having set a high bar, they find a way to raise the bar again. Great video package narrated by Heyman to open the show, good promos backstage to expertly set up what we got in the closing segment. I did appreciate that since they’re not undoing the unification, Roman now just has one actual belt to hold onto and he can just keep the other two at home. Naturally, they just kept the cookie cutter shape they’ve been using, but I like the gold backing on the logo there, it really stands out.
And naturally, the Usos DID show up, and what an amazing emotional rollercoaster there. After all that, we are definitely getting Usos VS Roman & Solo, and that will be the moment of truth where I would think Solo really does side with his brothers. Then it’s on Roman to either “fall in line” and accept his family as family, or he ends up all alone with just Heyman. Either way, this is all great stuff that can carry the story into the Summer, maybe even to SummerSlam. And what would really put a cherry on top: if Roman, no more pawns to get in the way, gets beat by a Mr. MITB cash-in.
Great opening Six Man from Theory & Pretty Deadly VS Brawling Brutes, and I figured the Heels would find a way to win. I would think Pretty Deadly finds a way into the Undisputed Tag Team Championship scene for the summer, as those titles are meant to be on both Raw and SmackDown. And who wouldn’t love seeing a promo between Kevin, Sami and Pretty Deadly? At the same time, The Good Brothers should also get in on some of that, they got a really good win off Hit Row. Happy birthday to AJ Styles, maybe he can find his way to a title match of some kind. Him and Theory wouldn’t be half bad for MITB.
Really good Grayson Waller Effect segment, though not really because of Waller. If this same stuff happened with The Miz and MizTV, it’d amount to about the same great stuff. Asuka and Iyo getting at each other and then arguing in Japanese seems to be their thing, but I would love if we got Iyo to turn Face. Between her and Asuka being longtime rivals, and DMG CTRL about to fall apart at a moment’s notice, Iyo could come out a top Face for the SmackDown Women’s Division. But I also do like that Bianca went after Asuka, that was a logical move. I just wish we got to see the sucker punch from Lacey live and not in a replay.
The MITB qualifiers were both good matches, but Zelina was a very obvious winner given Lacey’s attitude and how Zelina seems to be on a great push. Ford VS Knight was a bit closer, but the fans are just loving Knight, so it makes sense Knight won here. We’re also going to get great stuff out of next week’s matches, and I’m thinking Bayley, Iyo, Escobar and Dunne win. Bayley and Iyo because of the DMG CTRL breakup story they’re giving us, Escobar because the LWO tease they gave us, and Dunne because it won’t be Corbin since he’s got stuff brewing in NXT and Grimes just isn’t gonna let him win.
And what a spooky vignette from Fyre & Dawn. Just as it isn’t clear what they’re planning with having the Smackdown Women’s Championship on Raw and vice-versa, I’m not sure what’s going on with the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championships still being up here on main roster. I don’t think they’d unify, nor do I want them to unify, mostly because Fyre & Dawn probably wouldn’t beat Ronda & Shayna. Well, Shayna didn’t do well against spooky given Twisted Alexa during pandemic era, but I still don’t think using supernatural elements would be enough to take out Ronda. Though it would be pretty funny to see.
My Score: 8.8/10
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